EVERYONE is safe ... that’s the main thing, Wedderburn’s Steve Derks said as he surveyed the devasting scene left after fire destroyed the family home.
CFA volunteers from Wedderburn, Berrimal and Charlton were unable to save the weatherboard house that had been the Derks’ home for more than nine years.
Steve’s wife Evie and their youngest daughter escaped uninjured as flames took hold about 11am Friday. Wedderburn brigade captain Harry Hargreaves said volunteers had stopped flames spreading to a shed and neighbouring properties.
A community appeal has quickly raised more than $4500 for Steve, Evie and children Zac, Dixie-Rose, Archa, Belle and Hazen. CONTINUED PAGE 2
The Derks family photograph used by family and friends for the fundraising appeal
Loddon HERALD
Free every Thursday
Circulating in the communities and districts of Boort, Bridgewater, Dingee, Inglewood, Korong Vale, Mitiamo, Newbridge, Laanecoorie, Pyramid Hill, Serpentine, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn.
Also available in Dunolly, Charlton, Wycheproof, Kerang, Marong, Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat, Golden Square and Eaglehawk.
COFFEE on Loddon and Bridgewater Primary School have teamed up to spread kindness to the community.
Primary school students have decorated coffee sleeves with kind messages as a part of their “Coffee Cups of Kindness” initiative, available to Coffee on Loddon customers with the purchase of a medium or large hot drink.
There is also a donation jar at the coffee van with all donations being distributed to Sunshine Bendigo, a community-based, volunteer group that provides
practical support to families experiencing challenging times in the Central Victoria region.
“The kids have done such wonderful work, it’s such a beautiful initiative,” said Nicole, “We’re thrilled to be working with our local school.”
Launched in partnership with the local coffee van, Coffee on Loddon, the initiative sees takeaway coffee cups wrapped in custom-designed sleeves, each bearing messages of positivity, gratitude, and encouragement. Customers are invited to enjoy
their coffee and, if inspired, drop a donation into a jar at the counter. All funds raised will go directly to Sunshine Bendigo.
Sunshine Bendigo is a volunteer-run organisation that supports families in need by collecting and redistributing essential baby goods and nursery items.
The charity was selected by Bridgewater Primary School students in Years 3 to 6, who researched a range of local organisations before voting on a cause to support that was close to their hearts.
Wildlife on roads
A STATE Parliamentary inquiry into wildlife roadstrike has heard evidence during a regional sitting.
Northern Victoria Region MP Gaelle Broad said the committee appreciated the effort that people had gone to in order to present firsthand information on the issue.
“A wide range of topics were covered in the hearing,” Ms Broad said.
“These included the increasing numbers of wildlife on our roads; speed limits; driver education; major trauma incidents, motor vehicle damage and support for wildlife carers.”
FROM PAGE 1
Family loses home
Steve said on Saturday: “The community has been wonderful. Everyone is safe and that’s the main thing.”
He said the home had been extensively renovated since the family moved in almost a decade ago.
“We’ve always been doing something,” Steve said. “We had insurance, you can’t be without it.”
Police said it was believed the fire started in the kitchen.
Ambulances attended the High Street fire and traffic on the Calder Highway was restricted for several hours.
The Derks are in temporary accommodation while other arrangements are made.
Bridgewater students with their cups of kindness at Coffee on Loddon
Give them real access
VULNERABLE people placed in Loddon Shire public housing must be given in-town access to needed support services.
Inglewood Ward councillor Miki Wilson made the call at the weekend after a terrifying night for residents in Sullivan Street.
Volunteer firefighters and police were called to a unit after debris was thrown onto the roof and a tin drum set alight.
Neighbours said they were concerned for elderly residents and children living near the unitstwo managed by Inglewood Lions Club for Loddon Shire and others part of the State Government’s public housing program.
Cr Wilson said: “There are ongoing concerns and it’s upsetting for the community.
“Putting people who need support services in towns where they are not available is unreasonable ... the appropriate support has to be available.”
Cr Wilson said there were people being allocated public housing in country towns but unable to receive help needed without travelling to Bendigo.
“And there’s limited public transport options - one bus a day - for people who have to travel from Inglewood to Bendigo,” she said.
“These people are having their situation exacerbated by where they are living.
“Residents are terrified. It’s become a very difficult situation.
“We need to help people but we need the right services.”
The units on the corner of Sullivan and North Streets were originally built as bedsitters by the Lions club, later transferred to the then-Korong Shire and later to the State Government.
Five bedsits were returned to local ownership and management more than 15 years ago.
Management committee chairman Robert Condliffe said they were converted into twounits for elderly residents and run by a committee of Lions, Inglewood and Districts Health Service, shire and community representatives.
“We run these two units for elderly people, other units are part
of the State Government’s public housing program,” he said.
A Department of Families, Fairness and Housing spokesperson said: “The department is aware of complaints relating to an Inglewood property and is working with the local community to resolve issues.
“We work with applicants on the Victorian Housing Register to find them a suitable home in an area nominated by them.
“When applying for social housing, applicants select their location preferences for where they want to live by choosing up to five waiting list areas.
“Applicants are encouraged to consider all relevant factors, including medical and other support needs they may need to access. Existing renters are also able to apply for a transfer should they find their nominated location unsuitable.”
We encourage those applying for social housing options to consider a full range of options available. This includes expanding the areas they would consider living in, working with dedicated housing support providers and considering programs such as the Private Renters Assistance Program.”
IN BRIEF
Flood study
HARC (Hydrology and Risk Consulting) Services Pty Ltd has been appointed to complete the Wedderburn flood management plan. Appointed by Loddon Shire in conjunction with the North Central Catchment Management Authority, the project will include modelling and analysis to define existing flood behaviour in and around Wedderburn and updating the flood warning systems and emergency management plans. The study is expected to take 18 months. A project reference group with community members will be formed.
Roads top survey
COMMENTS on roads have topped Loddon Shire’s community satisfaction survey. The shire says staff have now reviewed all 134 comments with 65 sent for follow up inspection; 12 related to the flood recovery program, which is underway; 41 comments related to roads managed by the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning but did not specify the issue.
Breast screen spots
INGLEWOOD and Districts Health Service has limited seats left on its bus running to BreastScreen Bendigo on Monday. The bus will depart from Korong Vale, Wedderburn and from Inglewood at 10am.
3-5 October 10am-4pm
The scene after Saturday’s fire
Strong message ‘will hit home’
THE heartbreaking story of Coward Punch victim Pat Cronin will take centre stage next week in a powerful face-to-face presentation aimed at helping Loddon teenagers manage anger and defuse potentially violent situations.
Pat was 19 when he was struck from behind while coming to the aid of a mate on what was supposed to be a quiet night out in Melbourne in 2016. Although he was walking and talking straight after the blow, he suffered a catastrophic brain bleed a few hours later and never regained consciousness.
His devastated parents – Matt and Robyn – were faced with the agonising decision to turn off his life support. Since then, they have dedicated themselves to preventing similar tragedies through the work of the Pat Cronin Foundation.
East Loddon P-12 College students will take part in the Foundation’s Violence is Never OK presentation - which has reached more than 320,000 young Australians, on Tuesday.
College acting wellbeing leader Sarah Krahe said Pat’s story always resonated with students, sparking important conversations about actions and consequences.
“I think it’s because Pat was a typical teenager who loved football and hanging out with his friends – and that really hits home.
“We book the presentation as part of the Year 9 Health curriculum. The Foundation uses a range of presenters, each bringing their own life experiences, which really helps bring the messages to life.”
Foundation director Matt Cronin said he and Robyn could never have imagined how far the foundation would reach when they first began sharing Pat’s story.
“When we started out, we just wanted to
honour Pat and try to stop this from happening to other families,” he said. “We never imagined the Foundation would grow to touch the lives of hundreds of thousands of young people.”
Mr Cronin said the presentation explored not only the immediate consequences of violence, but also its devastating longterm ripple effects - on victims, families, perpetrators and communities.
“One punch changed everything for us, forever,” he said. “We use Pat’s story to help young people understand the lifelong impact of a single moment of violence.”
He said the foundation’s message had become more powerful with time.
“What we’ve seen is that Pat’s story still connects with people - perhaps even more so now. I think it’s because people realise it could happen to anyone. Schools tell us our programs genuinely shift attitudes. They get students thinking about their choices, their emotions, and how to resolve conflict without violence. We’re proud of the change that’s happening.”
The foundation’s evidence-based presentations are aligned with the Australian Curriculum.
“Violence is Never OK” shares Pat’s story and uses real-life scenarios to help students understand the impact of a single, violent act while equipping them with skills to manage anger before it escalates into aggression.
Building on this, the “Rethinking Anger” delves deeper into the triggers of conflict, offering strategies to avoid violence altogether.
The “Think Carefully, Act Kindly” presentation for younger children is part of a resource kit including storybooks, teacherled activities, and role-playing exercises to instil positive behaviours.
Haylett support of VNI West access laws cops criticism
THE Coalition has sprayed Ripon MP Martha Haylett for backing the Government’s proposed new laws that will see landowners fined if they refuse access to their properties by renewable energy project developers.
The Bill has been passed in the Legislative Assemly and is expected to be debated in Parliament’s Upper House within weeks.
Government proposals would see farmers in the VNI West corridor risking fines of $12,000 and if land is held by a corporation, $40,000
“Ms Haylett has completely turned her back on her own community and the people she is supposed to represent,” said Western Victoria Region MP Joe McCrack-
en. “Instead of standing up for her own community, she sat quietly in state Parliament and voted to support the legislation.
“It’s weak, it’s gutless, and it shows a complete disregard for farmers and rural communities she is supposed to represent.
“No wonder people are angry and frustrated — they’ve been totally gaslit.
“What’s so disappointing is that Ms Haylett has been giving false hope to her electorate, giving the impression she is listens, takes on board concerns, and actively represents her constituents.
“But when the time came to make a difference, Ms Haylett chose to allow the Government to bulldoze through her own communities,” Mr McCracken said.
MITIAMO Fire Brigade has unveiled a plaque honouring the service of Chris Cox who was captain for more than 30 years until his passing two years ago. Current captain Kurt Fridey and brigade members unveiled the plaque at last Friday’s Terrick Group medal presentation night. LH PHOTO
Energy aware: group wants wind details
A NEW group wants the Loddon community become better informed about renewables activity in the area and the likely impacts - both positive and negative.
Loddon Valley Renewables Awareness Group has aligned with the Wimmera Mallee Agricultural and Environmental Protection Association.
The move comes as multiple wind farm speculators are in talks with farmers in northern Loddon district, including Pyramid Hill.
The new group says its link with the Wimmera Mallee Association, campaigning against muiltiple renewable energy projects and mineral sands mining, will give “access to all their resources to ensure that residents are fully educated on the risks and the opportunities as these projects roll out around us”.
Group members issued a statement on Monday saying: “Some local landowners have been approached and have engaged in discussions regarding hosting renewable infrastructure on their properties.
“We support each person’s right to make the decision that is best for them in their situation. We also support their right to make informed decisions based on facts, and our purpose is to ensure that these facts are available and transparent.
“We oppose ‘secret deals’ and ‘non-disclosure agreements’ that pit neighbour against neighbour, and believe everyone should be at liberty to inform their friends and neighbours of their intentions - particularly in regard to the potential impact on others in the community.”
Group members have declined to speak publicly this week but say potential hosts “are not offered the opportunity to opt out of signing the non-disclosure form - but you can refuse to sign it.”
“The ‘developers’ who knock on your door are not in the business of looking after your interests. Like any door-to-door salesmen, their job is to get you to sign a contract.
“They then get paid and move on, and
your agreement could be transferred (sold) several times before it reaches the hand of the company who will eventually decide whether or not to proceed with their ‘option’.
“If you have agreed to have a caveat put on your property, that is legally binding for up to eighty years. If they decide not to proceed then you get no payments, but the caveat stays put, which could affect your ability to sell the property in the future, or limit the activities you can undertake.
“The tactics employed can also be questionable in regard to winning over community support. Generous donations to local clubs, once accepted, give ‘implied’ community acceptance, even though very few in the community will be aware of the donation.
“We know how hard fund-raising can be, and desperate situations can force a decision based on short-term need instead of long-term community cohesion.”
The Loddon Valley group says concerns raised in areas where renewables have been constructed are: negative health impacts; visual impact; noise; environmental impacts (wildlife habitat, migration patterns, bird deaths); land degradation; chemical contamination from shedding micro plastics; livestock access to deteriorating solar panels and wind turbines (MLA identified risk); interruption to agricultural operations and additional compliance requirements; increased fire risk (increased insurance premiums - particularly public liability minimum requirements currently under review); decrease in land value - including on neighbouring properties; cost of decommissioning end of life infrastructure which could fall to the landowner.
Confident on September consultation
DANISH-BASED European Energy expects to start community consultation next month for its proposal to build a wind farm at Mincha.
A spokesperson for the company’s Australian office said on Tuesday its team was confident of a mid-September start.
In July, Australian manager Catriona McLeod said ecological studies to avoid or minimise environmental harm have been made as the company investigated the feasibility of a wind farm at Mincha. She said there would be community engagement with neighbours and the Loddon Shire.
Buloke Shire
Billy Ralphs, Georgia Pascoe, Keira Tuohey, Alex Lister and Harrison Noble aree among East Loddon P12 College students raising funds towards their exchange visit to Turkey next year.
On Friday night, they assisted with catering for the CFA’s Terrick Groiup medal presentation evening.
Police probe regional sheep theft links
DETECTIVES are investigating whether a spate of Loddon sheep thefts in the past month is linked to 80 sheep taken from a property near Castlemaine.
Loddon farmers have been on high alert after Merino sheep were reported stolen from properties in the Powlett and Kurting districts and reports of suspicious vehicles in the Wedderburn district.
There have also been suspected sheep thefts between Raywood and Kamarooka.
Farmer concern was heightened early this month with reports of cold-callers asking if they had sheep for sale.
Police say they are continuing to investigate after $12,000 worth of merino sheep were stolen from a property in Strathlea in May.
“Investigators have been told four men
were witnessed herding the sheep into a light-blue coloured enclosed trailer at Browns Track about 8.30am,” police said.
“The trailer was being towed by an Iveco dual rear wheel white van and the men were perceived to be of middle eastern appearance.
“Detectives are aware of a report from the Inglewood district ... and investigations are ongoing to determine whether this is connected to the incident in Strathlea.”
The latest report of stock theft came from Helen Smith and John Lamprell last week when 40 head of Merinos were reported taken from Powlett.
According to anti-sheep theft campaigner Kevin Butler, there have also been reports of dorper lambs and sheep being taken across the region.
Community bank puts cash on the Christmas table
THERE could be added Christmas joy in Loddon communities this year with a new grant program launched by Inglewood and District Community Bank.
The bank is offering community groups grants of $5000 to organise local Christmas events.
Chairman Linda Younghusband said the new program followed a board decision not to proceed with a community event originally scheduled for October.
“We have changed our plans as there are a few other activities of similar intent happening between now and Christmas,” Linda said.
“We have decided to give communities an opportunity to organise a full community Christmas event for everyone to enjoy.
“We believe this will give back to more people than our first proposed event. By supporting local community gatherings, people will not have to travel too far and Christmas is a time to be happy, so why not!”
The community bank continues to support projects in the region, assisting organisations with grants for infrastructure improvements and sponsoring events.
The bank is also continuing its push for child care for southern Loddon communities of Inglewood, Bridgewater, Serpentine and Tarnagulla.
A survey has been launched as part of a feasibility study commissioned by the community bank that has seen $250,000 put on the table towards establishment of a child care centre.
Reverberation of one big meteoric bang
WINDOWS rattled as a disintegrating meteor travelled the southern Loddon night sky on Sunday.
Woodstock West Fire Brigade captain Leigh Hercus said there a loud bang and rumble tonight at 7.37pm
“Our windows rattled and the noise continued for about 30 seconds,” he said.
Residents in Laanecoorie and Newbridge also said they heard the bang that some initially thought may have been an earthquake or tremour.
The meteor was on a path between Ballarat and Bendigo.
Astrophysicist and astronomer Prof Jonti Horner, from the University of Southern Queensland confirmed it was a meteor
that had lit up the sky. “It was definitely a meteor. Because of how bright it was, we describe it as a ‘fireball’ – which just means a meteor that was brighter in the sky than the planet Venus appears,” he was reported as saying on Monday.
“From how bright it was and the fact there was a widely heard sonic boomrumble a few minutes after it appeared, it seems likely that fragments could have made it to the ground.”
Experts say the loud boom could be an indication that fragments of the meteor were close to ground level.
They say it may be possible fragments, as small as pebbles, may have landed in the region.
Trail launches program big with ambition
LODDON Valley Arts Trail is making a statement this year.
The October 3-5 program not only clusters events around Boort, Wedderburn, Inglewood and Bridgewater but also takes in new venues in places like Logan, Calivil and Mysia.
“It’s a different kind of festival, taking advantage of Loddon’s heritage venues and unique places,” volunteer co-ordinator Rosemary Sorensen said at Monday’s program launch.
“The support of the shire council, community groups, artists from right across the region and of the committees that manage many of the venues is central to this ambitious program.
“It takes a shire to make a festival, and we’re saying, loud and proud, that we’re out there – in every way.”
Mayor Dan Straub said the Arts Trail was a wonderful example of how the community collaborated to achieve a shared vision.
“We often say Loddon Shire is really a community of communities but they have all got together to make the Arts Trail a success,” he said.
“From farmers to Men’s Sheds to service clubs to businesses, they’ve all pitched in to create something that we can all be proud of.
“That also translates into a major economic boost for our communities, with the number of visitors from outside the region here and travelling around for the weekend.”
Cr Straub said the quality and variety of artists exhibiting on the Arts Trail was testament to the hard work of organisers since the event began, but it wasn’t all one way.
“The artists themselves will get to exhibit their works in some pretty unique locations around our shire,” he said.
“We hope they enjoy these venues as much as our communities will enjoy seeing them used in this unique way.”
Tenar Dwyer, who is creating an exhibition in Inglewood Community Neighbourhood House alongside the Town Hall, says it’s good to see the Arts Trail blooming into a busy festival.
“We’re installing an exhibition called Tribute to the Loddon that is intriguing and very beautiful,”
Ms Dwyer says. “That will complement the works of local artists in a show we’re calling Re:Form, which is all about memory, transformation and identity.
“The bottom line for Loddon Valley Arts this year is we want to give people the space to feel, to think, to experience, to see, do,
share and enjoy,” Ms Sorensen says. “It’s been amazing to see so many regional artists ready to be part of something new and untried.
“These places and these landscapes are perfect for showing everything from Crafty Arts in Bridgewater, to Remembrance art installations in Wedderburn, to shows put together by Boort artists. “The photography show in Kingower is called Nowhere but Somewhere, and that’s what this is all about.”
Emma’s nailing artistic creations
EMMA Gartside is literally investing in her passion making chain mail.
The Inglewood artists will be among creatives displaying their work at an arts trail weekend exhibition at the town hall.
Emma has taken to crafting vests, necklaces and ornaments, making the chains from scratch from fencing wire.
Her most challenging project
so far has been to make a chain mail vest which she wore to Monday’s trail program launch.
“I’ve always been into fantasy writing and books and have an interest in blacksmithing,” Emma said.
“It would be good to get into making chain mail armour but for now I have gone down the jewellery path,” Emma said of her artistic hobby.
Emma Gartside and Mayor Dan Straub launch the trail’s 2025 program. LH PHOTO
CFA MEDAL PRESENTATIONS
Four receive life member awards
FOUR Loddon volunteer firefighters were presented with CFA Life member medals at a presentation evening Calivil on Friday night.
The top medals were among dozens of service awards handed over by CFA commander Bryan Suckling.
Mitiamo’s Peter and Barry Meighan have both been brigade members for more than 54 years and were praised for their dedication.
Jarklin’s Brian Duffy has held many leadership positions since joining almost 53 years ago and has been a long-time secretary-treasurer of the brigade.
Fellow brigade member Graham Maxted has 57 years of service, including having been captain for 32 years.
Awards presented on Friday night and other occasions in coming weeks are - Five years: Leanne Welsh (Jarklin). 10 years: Adam Bish (Dingee), Kurt Fridey (Mitiamo), Jo Guthrie (Jarklin), Adam James (Jarklin). 15 years: Craig Wiltshire (Mitiamo, Ashley Potter (Jarklin).
20 years: Craig Orwin (Dingee), Mark Lister (Dingee), Darren Welsh (Jarklin). 25 years: Richard Hicks (Jarklin). 30 years: Ted Kaye (Mitiamo), Peter Betts (Jarklin), Allan Guthrie (Jarklin), Ross Maxted (Jarklin). Wayne Maxted (Yarrawalla). 35 years: Adrian Hocking (Dingee), Geoff Thomas (Mitiamo). 40 years: Richard Diss (Dingee), Neil Lister (Dingee), Collins Falls (Dingee), Donald Cunneen (MItiamo), Allan Wiltshire (Mitiamo), David Allen (Mitiamo), Keith Richards (Jarklin). 45 years: Richard Wright (Dingee), Terry Kavanagh (Dingee), Wayne Thomas (Mitiamo).
50 years: Trevor Roulston (Yarrawalla), Richard Morgan (Dingee), Neil Allen (Mitiamo). 55 years: Laurie Maxted (Yarrawalla), Keith Hocking (Dingee),
Life members Barry Meighan, Brian Duffy, Graham Maxted and Peter Meighan with the CFA’s Bryan Suckling. LH PHOTOS
Seeing red: shire rate notice says blame government
RATES notices with thick red boxes have started appearing in Loddon letterbox as the shire council rams home its message that it has been forced to collect the State Government’s controversial new emergency services tax.
The tax is tipped to add up to 25 per cent to the rate bill of residents.
Council’s new design rate notice has its charges highlighted by a green box before itemising “charges council is required to collect for State Government”.
An information brochure distributed with rate notices says: “Council objects to the introduction of the (emergency services) levy in its current form, due to the significant impacts it will have on the shire’s farming, commercial and industrial sectors.
“Council has formally expressed its strong opposition to the (emergency services) levy with council calling on the State Government to immediately repeal the levy for all Victorian ratepayers, including residential, commercial, industrial and primary production land categories.
“Council is legally required to collect this levy on behalf of the State Government. Council does not benefit financially from this levy. All money collected is transferred to the State Revenue Office.”
And in a plea to ratepayers not to withhold the levy component, the shire says: “Council is legally required to collect the levy and pay it to the State Revenue Office. If you only pay a portion of the total
SAMPLE
amount due, some of that payment will be paid to the State Government to cover the levy. Council are legislated to charge interest on any overdue unpaid amount.”
Mailing of rate notices across Victoria comes as more protests are planned in opposition to the tax.
The CFA Volunteers Group on Sunday announced a rally for Bendigo on September 14.
Members Loddon brigades who had attended a rally in Melbourne in May say they planned to again voice their concers at next month’s protest.
Loddon Shire Council gives notice under section 114 (2)(b) of the Local Government Act 2020 and in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy, that it intends to sell property located at 77 Ridge Street, Wedderburn (Wedderburn Kindergarten).
The land will have no council or community purpose at the cessation of the current kindergarten service, and as such will be surplus to Council needs.
It is proposed that Council sell the land and building via an appointed licenced real estate agent.
A person may make a submission on Council’s intention. Submissions must be received by close of business on 11 September 2025, and should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Loddon Shire Council, PO Box 21, Wedderburn 3518 or via email to executive@loddon.vic.gov.au.
Any person who has made a written submission to Council may request in writing to be heard in person in support of the written submission or by a person acting on their behalf before Council at a time and date to be advised.
Any queries can be directed to the Executive Department, on 5494 1200 or via email executive@loddon.vic.gov.au.
A Flood Management Plan is being prepared for Wedderburn.
The consultants for the project, HARC, would like to hear about your experience and knowledge of flooding in Wedderburn. A drop-in session will be held at the Council Chamber, Wedderburn, between 2pm and 6.30pm on Tuesday, 2 September.
Council is also seeking up to three community members who wish to be included on the Project Reference Committee (PRC) for the Wedderburn Flood Management Plan.
The PRC will oversee the governance and management of the project. Inclusion on the PRC will involve attending up to six meetings during a work day over the life of the project (18 months), review of reports and representing the views of other community members.
To nominate for the PRC, please send your name, phone number and the reason for your interest to planning@loddon.vic.gov.au before 5pm Monday, 25 August.
For more information please email the above address.
Council has opened up entries for both the 2026 Australia Day awards as well as the three competitions run to mark the day.
Australia Day Awards - These recognise outstanding Australians and community groups within Loddon Shire: Citizen and Ward Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Community Group/Event of the Year.
Australia Day Competitions - Based on the theme ‘Australian Vegetation’ Council is conducting Colouring, Photographic and Literature competitions. Nominations and entry forms are available from Council’s website, or by emailing australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au. Nominations and entries must be received by 4pm on Friday, 24 October.
Council is hosting two further information sessions about the Inglewood Streetscape Enhancement project at Cafe 3517 in Inglewood on Thursday, 14 and 21 August. Come along and find out more, or ask the project team any questions, from 9am to 10am and visit https://connect.loddon.vic.gov.au/inglewoodstreetscape-enhancement to make a submission.
Cr Dan Straub - Mayor
Merino ram season off to good start
A LAST-MINUTE inclusion in Terrick West’s on-property Merino catalogue has topped the state’s opening ram auction of the year.
Stud advisor Chris Bowman bought the opening lot for Craig and Tessa Johnston, Austral-Eden Merino stud (West Wyalong) for $12,000.
Mr Bowman said he had seen the ram perform well at last month’s Australian Sheep and Wool Show and liked its structure and barrel confirmation.
“It’s a well-balanced ram and with excellent well-nourished medium wool,” he said.
“The ram has good shape and meat below the tail.”
The ram will be joined with some of Austral-Eden’s thickerlocked ewes while Terrick West will retain 300 straws of semen for its use.
Statistics for the top-selling ram were 19.1 micron fleece with a standard deviation of 2.8, coefficient variation of 14.9 and comfort factor of 99.8 per cent.
Terrick West co-principal Ross McGauchie said: “We wanted to have a really good ram in the sale this year and it’s gone very well.”
The McGauchies had decided to include the top price ram in the catalogue weeks before last Friday’s sale.
Bidding was strong on the first half of the 80-ram catalogue with regulars among the active bidders.
“The top end was quite strong, we weren’t anticipating that so we’re very happy,” Mr McGauchie said.
The auction saw 57 rams from the 80 offered sell for an average of $3021 with a number of rams selling privately following the sale.
The result compared wiuth Terrick West’s 2024 sale, which saw 65 of 84 rams sold for an average price of $3188 and a top of $10,000.
Among returning Loddon buyers last Friday were Grant Langley from Newbridge, Pompapiel Pastoral and the Carlesses of Moliagul.
Mr Bowman said drought conditions in Victoria had meant that buyers were more selective this year about the number of rams they planned to buy and would be guided by the animal’s data.
Nick Farley, Ross McGauchie, Ross Milne and Chris Bowman with the top-priced ram at Friday’s Merino season opening sale at Terrick West. LH PHOTO
CLEARING SALE ONLINE AUCTIONS PLUS
A/C ESTATE OF MR D. CLAXTON
41 EILES ROAD, MAIDEN GULLY
Vintage Tractors, Cars, Stationary Engines & Sundries
AUCTION OPENS: 14TH AUGUST AT 9AM
AUCTION COUNTDOWN TIMER ON: 18 TH AUGUST AT 4PM
Vintage Tractors & Cars: 1939 Rare prewar Lanz Bulldog (Going), 1927 Morris Cowley Tourer (Going), 1928 Morris Cowley Sedan (Going), 1938 Morris 8 Saloon (Going), 1952 Fordson Major EIA Petrol/ Kero model, 1952 Fordson Major E27N Tractor, 2 X Fordson F Model Tractors (Steel Wheels), Ferguson TEA Tractor, Ferguson grey Tractor (painted red)
Steam & Stationary Engines: Jelbart 12HP Engine on transports (almost complete), Hornsby & Sons 6HP ball covered engine, 1927 Ronaldson &Tippett 6HP Engine on transports, Clutterbuck No777 Engine, Waterloo Boy gasoline 5HP Engine, Large assortment of Lister, Roseberry, Rushton &Hornsby, International, Kelly & Lewis, Buzzacott, Fairbanks, Wolsley, Banford in various conditions, Blackstone 3HP oil engine, JAP England petrol engine plus a host more entries of engines & steam parts. Please refer to the full catalogue.
Sundries: Numerous sized steam whistles, antique farm implements including Hay Baler, Mulboard Plough, Ploughs, Qty lots of oilers & magnetos in bulk lots, various saw bench’s/ swing saws, 3PL 6’ Grader Blade, 3PL Ripper, 3PL Scoops, 14’ X 6’ tilt tandem car trailer, 3 X various farm trailers, anvil, Assorted ammo boxes with tools, chains, ropes & sundries, antique tin trunks (2).Extension & step ladders, various oil bottle/ cans/ signs, Assorted tools (Electric & Hand), Antique & Vintage blow/oil lamps, Stihl chainsaw & Blower, Air compressor, assort water skis (Single & Multiple), rare collection fortified port (24 lots approx.) Plus host of sundries too numerous to particularise.
Terms: Invoices will be emailed to successful purchases within 48hrs of completion of sale.
Direct Deposit payment on completion of the sale. Payment receipt to be presented at collection of goods.
All Accounts to be settled prior to collection of goods. Strictly NO Payments to be made on the day of collection
No GST or Buyers Premium Applicable
Inspection Dates: Saturday 2nd August from 9.00am to 12.00pm, Saturday 9th August from 9.00am to 12.00pm.
Mechanic on-site from 10am to 11am to start vehicles.
WHEN many people hear the word Landcare, their first thoughts often go to treeplanting days and pulling weeds.
Familiar activities that symbolize community effort and environmental stewardship. For some, that may be where their understanding ends.
However, for others like Fernihurst farmers Dallas and Barry Evans, along with their families, Landcare represents much more than simple conservation tasks; it embodies a deep commitment to nurturing the land, its ecosystems, and the community as a whole.
Last Friday, Boort’s newly formed Landcare group met at Dallas’ farm, where the Evans family welcomed members and shared their passion for land care. The gathering was more than just an event; it was a celebration of shared values and collective responsibility. Dallas spoke passionately about why caring for the land is a vital and ongoing endeavor:
OPEN HOUSE INSPECTION
143 Lock Road, St Arnaud
OPEN HOUSE INSPECTION: 16th of August 2025 10am-11am
AUCTION:
3 OCTOBER 2025 @ 11AM
Lifestyle Farmlet on the Edge of Town
A rare opportunity to secure a highly sought-after 40-acre lifestyle property just a short walk from the heart of St Arnaud.
Selling Agent: Brett Douglas 0447 162 455
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
“Caring for the earth is more than just planting trees,” he said. “It’s about looking after the entire environment — the soil, the native animals, the birds, and even the smallest creatures that depend on this ecosystem. Every part matters because they all work together to keep our landscape healthy and resilient.”
For Dallas and many involved in Landcare, the movement is about forging meaningful connections between people and the land they inhabit.
It’s about protecting native wildlife and preserving the rich history and cultural significance of the region. Landcare fosters a sense of responsibility that transcends individual efforts, encouraging communities to work together in nurturing the environment for future generations.
A key part of the Boort Landcare group’s activities is their regular social meetings, held every month.
CLOSING 11AM OCT 3RD, 2025.
PROPERTY ONE:
Lot 1 Perry Jones Road, Greens Creek
1 allotment – 98.24 ha / 242.75acres*
PROPERTY TWO:
Lot 2 Boort- Wedderburn Road Borung
2 allotments total of 427.25 acres*
CA 73 Sec 4 125.91 acres* (Left Block) CA 51 301.34 acres* (Shearing Shed Block)
Both properties offer the opportunity for excellent cropping and grazing options.
Rosemary and John with their Australian champion fleece
SHEEP AND LAMBS
MORE sheep than lambs after last week’s strong mutton sale flushed out 9100 sheep at Bendigo on Monday.
Lamb supply was slightly down at 8500 head. It was a cheaper market in the first significant downward price change recorded across the sale for some time.
Lamb prices were generally $10 to $30/head cheaper across a mixed run, although it should be noted that the very best heavy grainfed and supermarket style lambs held their value in spots.
There was a new Bendigo saleyard record of $464 for a run of heavy grainfed lambs and some of the top quality processing types still sold above 1200c/kg cwt.
However that wasn’t the full story of the sale with most trade and heavy lamb categories dropping back to track either side of 1100c/k cwt, whereas a week ago the benchmark rate was more like 1200c/kg cwt.
Mixed lamb quality was a factor in the cheaper results as less weight and finish gets presented heading deeper into late winter. But there was also less energy coming from the buying group who acted a lot more selectively and didn’t appear as pressured for numbers.
The same scenario played out in the sheep run, with prices $20 to $40 cheaper and sometimes bigger losses evident compared to last Monday’s extremely buoyant mutton sale at Bendigo. Export lambs over 30kg cwt from $321 to $464, ranging from a ballpark 1000c/kg to over 1200c/kg at the top end for an estimated average
of 1165c/kg cwt. Heavy lambs 2630kg cwt from $274 to $345/head to be trending just above 1100c/ kg cwt. General run of trade lambs $220 to $280/head with a bigger price spread opening up of 1000c to 1150c for most but still with select pens over 1200c/kg. More new season lambs did appear and one pen estimated around 27kg cwt sold for $350/head before there was a noticeable pullback on the trade weighted types at $253 to $285/head and then $210 to $225 for lighter trades, with buyers not prepared to chase hard on pens which weren’t really fresh and even. Light lambs were cheaper, particularly smaller Merino types. Better framed and presented light lambs mostly $140 to $180/head, smaller lambs $80 to $130/head for most.
The sheep market couldn’t sustain last week’s highs. Good heavy mutton held up the best at a ballpark rate of 750c to 850c/kg cwt or $268 to a top of $327 for extremely big crossbred ewes. Lead Merino ewes $234 to $272/head. Trade and light sheep were erratic, a lot of sales from $120 to $210/per head, ranging from 600c to 750c/kg cwt depending on quality, condition and number in a pen. There was some very light sheep at $25 to $100/head to be a fair way behind last week’s results at times.
SUCKERS
WW & RG Farming Macorna (84) $350. T & K Campbell Macorna (25) $275. T Froon Bunnaloo (10) $274. DORPER LAMBS
Steve Chalmers Barham (37) $190. Jen Hinrichsen Wallan (15) $164. Grimwade Farming Group Nulla Vale (18) $123.
CROSSBRED LAMBS
Abadean Lockington (121) $375. Brown
Bros Ag Kotupna (118) $352. G & R Dickinson Heathcote (37) $348. A & K Ogden Wanalta (28) $343. PG & DM Sexton Terrappee (47) $343. T & D Sutton Lockington (13) $342. O’Sullivan Trading Elmore (288) $341. Ilfracombe Donald (22) $336. RJ & PD Paget Tarcombe (35) $314. DI & CL Palmer Bamawm (72) $312. G Taylor Kerang (23) $302. John Sutherland Kilmore (8) $300. NA & ME Hocking Pyramid Hill (13) $290. Dakota Farms Macorna (65) $265. M Pringle Sandhill Lake (18) $265.
MERINO LAMBS
A & S Betley Moama (37) $305. SN & DA Collins Bridgewater North (32) $262. A & K Ogden Wanalta (39) $257. Sheridan Family Trust Donald (47) $232. Pompapiel Pastoral Pompapiel (15) $230. Classic Pastoral Nagambie (36) $230.
CROSSBRED EWES
Kelly Ag & Transport Euroa (205) $327. DJ & ED Lees Rochester (133) $324. WW & RG Farming Macorna (98) $300. ALB & R McIntosh Wanalta (69) $300. A & L Hiscock Pty Ltd Pyalong (47) $280. JS & W Brown Colbinabbin (130) $280. G Taylor Kerang (5) $275. N & M Hocking Pyramid Hill (4) $275. G Mulquiny Koyuga (9) $270. D & F Graham Moama (58) $260. Dakota Pastoral Macorna (8) $235. Pyalong Park Pyalong (15) $215. AB & L Mann Pyramid Hill (75) $213.
MERINO EWES
A & S Betley Moama (61) $303. WA & VJ Barlow Wanalta (81) $275. Goulburn Valley Water Shepparton (170) $272. McNaul’s Farming Wakool (114) $269. A & A McNaughton Stratford (124) $265. EA Wilson Durham Ox (49) $265. G Mulquiny Koyuga (11) $240. Whinfield Farms Macorna (62) $234. B & N Collins Logan (22) $234. RG & KA Martin Emu (43) $209. D & H McKinley Leichardt (39) $180. Order of sales next week - McKean McGregor, Elders, Nevins, Nutrien, Nuttall. SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS
Newbridge’s Grant Langley was among returning buyers at the Terrick West Poll Merino stud’s on-property auction Friday. Grant purchased two rams at the first auction of the Victorian season. And among the buys was his first non-mulsed ram. “It will be interesting to see how it helps my flock in coming years,” he said. LH PHOTO
Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report
Positive day on the back of a tough market last week with trade lambs the highlight.
To discuss the marketing opportunities available for your livestock, contact the McKean McGregor team.
Alex Collins - 0408 314 768
Rail revival has place in corridor growth, writes Chris Earl FEATURES | OPINION & QUIZ
Missing link to tracking future
1. Which fictional pig wanted to do the work of a sheepdog?
2. A famous Australian natural landmark is the ‘Great ____ Reef’.
3. Which country has the highest number of active volcanoes?
LOOK at government policies
and there’s usually the mention in growth, development and service provision frameworks for good and accessible transport options.
Looks good on paper but what are the realities beyond the Keilor Hills and within the core of regional capitals?
Lip service you could well say. Afterall, a small duplication of a section of the Calder Highway between Marong and Derby was to have been finished five years ago.
Latest excuse: Designs are being drawn up. Guess that’s an admission from government and bureaucrats that either the original plans were inferior or there’s an ingrained culture of spending money again and again and again.
But the Calder Highway project is only playing catch up, the need for work only increasing as Bridgewater increasingly positions itself as an accessible lifestyle alternative for families who may have been priced out of the
Bendigo market and Inglewood and Wedderburn are sharing in the appeal of having a Loddon abode.
What’s needed now is vision for where our communities could, or is that will, be in a decade from now.
Only a few years ago it was floated that re-opening the train line could be part of the future growth vision.
There has now been talk in Marong that trains should be timetabled to Bendigo’s western suburb. One advocate has eruditely mentioned that the population of Marong is already far greater than Raywood and Goornong where trains now stop.
There’s a state election in November next year. We know this state has more financial challenges that the woes faced by the last long-term Labor government back in the early 1990s.
But elections, and politics, should be a competition for ideas, of vision and at least putting
in place the frameworks from which to build future superstructures supporting communities and people.
Using the premise, the work must start now in advocating for train services to any community within half an hour of Bendigo because, fast forward, 10 or 20 or 30 years from now there will be a most definite need for an adequate suite of transport options.
It may take that long - government projects afterall are not overnight fixers - to achieve what is truly needed.
The same approach is needed on services to support and help people. Inglewood Ward councillor Miki Wilson in this week’s Loddon Herald has raised concerns about people being allocated public housing when the services they need are not in the town.
With poor public transport connections to Bendigo, their accessibility options are limited and few. Another reason for trains?
YOUR ONLINE WORDS
THE PUSH TO LOWER VICTORIA’S DRIVING AGE HAS SPARKED COMMENTS FROM OUR READERS.
Bindi Long wrote: Why are other states 17, yet Victoria is 18. Aren’t we a country? Each state should have the same laws/Rules in my opinion. Less confusion when travelling your own country.
Rylan Anna Adams wrote: No way. Just because kids live in the country and (most) drive on the farm, doesn’t mean they know how to drive properly on the road and with other motorists, it’s 18 for a reason. Don’t fix what’s not broken.
Bill Pearson wrote: They need better driver education. eg change the spare, check oil etc. Putting the drinking age to 21 may be beneficial.
Heather Lee wrote: Turning 18 doesn’t suddenly make you a good driver. Without decent public transport It’s harder for kids in the country to get to jobs etc. It should be lowered.
Gordon Stevenson wrote: Under 18s are not mature enough to make the decisions necessary to drive properly.
Jo Guthrie wrote: Gordon Stevenson. and suddenly at 18 they are? Let’s teach them
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Loddon Herald welcomes letters to the editor from readers. Preference will be given to letters of 300 words or less and must include your name with address and phone number provided for verification (not publicaton). We reserve the right to edit letters for legal reasons. Send your letters to loddonherald@gmail.com
OPINION PIECES
properly instead of pretending that at 18 they suddenly know how to drive!
Gordon Stevenson wrote: At 18 they would have had two years of experience from the time they get their learners permit and then red and green plates until full licence.
Jo Guthrie wrote: But they only need to hold a learners permit for 12 months so long as they do their 120 hours supervised driving. So they could have their p’s at 17 in reality if they have their hours up - it’s just that the age is set to 18 for their Ps. It’s hours of driving not how many years.
4. Name the sport that involves a map, a compass, and checkpoints?
5. Aurora is the Roman goddess of what?
6. Lleyton Hewitt beat who to win the 2001 US Open tennis final?
7. Fossils are found in what type of rock?
8. In which year did the AFL change to the current logo?
9. And who was the AFL CEO at the time of that change?
10. What is the oven called in which pottery is fired?
11. Farfelle pasta is what shape?
12. Film character Forest Gump compared what to a box of chocolates?
13. What is the name of Garfield the cat’s owner?
BRADLEY of Boort is back gazing to the sky with his Treedendous Sign this week. Was the meteor off in the distance, clouds sending a few more drops of precipitation earth-bound or a Sunday afternoon nap that acted as inspiration? With our Bradley, that is anyone’s guess.
GOT to say that the biggest idiots around at the moment are kangaroos - no road sense at all. OTF passed one on the Loddon Valley Highway the other night, roo turned back and stood gazing not at the clouds but into a paddock. Not so lucky driving in built-up area next day when one of these road pests darted across south-bound traffic and into the OTF chariot heading south.
14. From 43 grand final appearances, how many have Collingwood lost?
15. What is the only muscle not attached at both ends?
16. Who is next in line for the crown of the Commonwealth?
17. Manx cats are without what body part?
18. Earl Grey tea is flavoured by what type of orange?
19. What is the national flower of India?
20. The country of Venezuela is named after which famous city?
WHETHER north or south, there’s an intrepid group of Farmers being led by the (retired) Northern Correspondent heading to the top end of New South Wales in days on what they say is a tax-deductible professional development tour.
O UR source for the itinerary comes from a chap famous for throwing other people “under the bus” with his leaking to OTF. Turns out his good wife has also be in touch with OTF in recent days ... with information still to be verified about his latest tractor chug, chug, splutter exploits.
B
ACK to the rain. Did you know Serpentine now has an Olympic-size swimming pool. The concrete base for the new fire station, finally under construction, has been dug ready to pour in the cement ... and nicely filled with the recent drops of rains.
BUSHY TALES BY IAN JONES
Rustic wonders
WHEN Maryanne and Malcolm Murdoch moved to Inglewood two years ago, they started collecting discarded metal from the bush behind their house in an effort to clean up the area.
“We found lots of circles and other metal pieces and decided to make something with them,” Maryanne said. From crocodiles to terriers, the pair have no limit to their creativity, “basically anything we can come up with we will make,” said Maryanne. Their bird baths repurposed from old gold pans are popular amongst customers as well as their dog statues.
“We sell a lot of dogs, especially
around Christmas time, people just love them,” she said.
The couple has been doing metalwork for more than a decade and are happily continuing it in their retirement.
Malcolm taught Maryanne to weld which she does when she has time, “I tend to do more of the barbed wire art, Malcolm makes the birds and dogs. I love doing it, it’s a stress release for me and it keeps me busy,” she said.
“They take a lot of time to create, some pieces like the dogs have six individual pieces put together to create the piece. We do it as a hobby though, we’re retired, and it gives us something
to do,” said Maryanne. “We’ve had a lot of positive feedback about the art.”
Their rustic art is also stocked in local Inglewood businesses including the Eucy Museum and Cafe 3517.
Customers of theirs aren’t limited to people in Inglewood however, “we have a lot of repeat customers,” Maryanne said, “A lot of people will stop by when they’re headed on a holiday, some come past annually and others more frequently. We have lots of people from Mildura and Melbourne who are repeat customers.”
“We had a woman drive from Mount Martha to just buy one of our benches
recently,” she said. Rustic metal and hanging garden arts will also be a part of the Loddon Arts Trail taking place in October.
“We’re really excited to be a part of the Arts Trail, it’ll be our first year selling from our house instead of at a communal location,” Maryanne said.
“We’re lucky with our art, it’s unique and there’s really no one else in the area that does similar pieces.”
Maryanne is also a driver of the Visit Inglewood online platform promoting the town’s history and its quirky “unseen” attractions.
-
RUBY HYLAND
DEATH NOTICE
WITHINGTON
Beatrice May “Bette”
Passed away peacefully at Boort Hospital on August 6, 2025
Aged 93 years
Dearly loved wife of Les (dec.).
Cherished Mum, Nan and Great Nan of Sue and Daryl, Andrew, Jenny, Mandy and Mick, and families.
Mum and Dad together at last
In accordance with Bette’s wishes A Private Funeral Service has been held
BEREAVEMENT THANKS
WEBB - Trevor Gordon
On behalf of Dorothy, Donna, Jack, Graeme and families, we extend our heartfelt thank you to everyone for their kind wishes, love, support,and for attending Trevor Webb’s service on Wednesday, July 9th, 2025.
PUBLIC NOTICES
Save the date - Sunday 12th October is CANCELLED
WE ARE NOW offering all local communities a sponsorship of up to $5,000
For A WHOLE COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS EVENT
APPLY VIA OUR SMARTY GRANTS
PORTAL - invoiced costs required for your application. Closing date is 31.10.2025.
Central Victorian Radio Operators CVRO Radio
meet every Friday night on 27.205usb - 7pm check in. Amateur-CB-SWL welcome with a live stream on
Facebook: Central Victorian Radio Operators page
PUBLIC NOTICES
Australia Day Awards 2026
Loddon Shire Council is now receiving nominations for a range of Australia Day awards recognising outstanding Australians and community groups within the Loddon Shire.
Ward Citizen of the Year nominations are open to those living, or operationally based within the Loddon Shire who have made an outstanding contribution to the local community during 2025, or have given noteworthy service to the local community over a number of years. Ward Citizen of the Year nominations are open for each of the ve Loddon Shire wards (Boort, Inglewood, Tarnagulla, Terrick and Wedderburn).
The 2026 Loddon Shire Citizen of the Year will be selected from Ward Citizen of the Year nominations.
Young Citizen of the Year nominations are open to Loddon Shire residents aged up to 26 years at 26 January 2026 who have made a noteworthy contribution to the local community during 2025, or over a number of previous years.
Community Group/Event of the Year nominations are open to groups or events operating within the Loddon Shire. This award aims to recognise and encourage signi cant contributions to community life within the Loddon Shire and to promote national pride and community responsibility.
Further information on each Award category is contained within nomination forms available from Council’s website, www. loddon.vic.gov.au, or upon email request to australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au.
Nominations for all awards close at 4pm on Friday 24 October 2025.
Australia Day Competitions 2026
Based on the theme ‘Australian Vegetation’ Loddon Shire Council is conducting the following competitions as part of Australia Day 2026 celebrations:
Colouring Competition for Prep to Year
2 students
Photographic Competition - 3 sections:
o Junior (Prep/Foundation to Year 6)
o Senior (Year 7 to Year 12)
o Open
Literature Competition for school aged children.
Any person residing, working, or attending a school within the Loddon Shire is eligible to enter. The colouring competition picture and entry forms are available from schools within the Loddon Shire, by downloading from Council’s website (www.loddon.vic.gov.au), or by email request to australiaday@loddon. vic.gov.au.
Entries must be received by 4pm on Friday 24 October 2025.
RELAXATION MASSAGE
At the Inglewood Town Hall Community Hub .
Fully qualified. Rates
*30 mins $55
*30 mins $45 pensioners *1 hour $75.
I also have a wide range of qualifications including aged care and disabilities.
Call Bernie on 0421747680 to make your appointment
A section of the following road will be closed to through tra c from 26 August to 25 October 2025, for the duration of culvert replacement works on Glad eld South Road. Detour routes will be in place. A section of Glad eld South Road, Pyramid Hill will be closed between Halls Road & Boundary Road.
WEDDERBURN hockey stalwart
Wendy Smith filled in at Saturdays game to support the team to clinch a spot in the 2025 North Central finals
Back in the early years Wendy clinched 12 goals in one game as was name in the paper as Wendy the Weapon Wielder a name she has shown true grit for.
Wedderburn has only had four women’s premierships over the 59 years, Wendy played in 1972 B grade women joint winners with Boort, joint winners A grade women 1974 with St Arnaud and 1984 defeated St Arnaud in B Grade She was awarded life member 2010 and was association B Grade best and fairest in 1981 Her mum Vi Stephenson a life member 1988 was instrumental in organising the club in early years. The NCHA celebrated 60 years this year with Wedderburn joining the league in 1966.
The team on Saturday a triumphant win over Sea Lake 5-1 and this week they play top team St Arnaud.
FIELDS OF FLUX
Tigers go into extra time ahead of making call on league future
MACORNA Football Netball
Club’s playing future remains up in the air, with the Golden Rivers league club given a two-week extension to decide its plans for next season.
With Golden Rivers scheduled to fold at the end of the season, Macorna has been weighing options including requesting a transfer to the Loddon Valley league.
Alternatives include seeking to move to the Central Murray league or the Picola District league.
Last Friday, AFL Central Victoria gave the Tigers an extra fortnight to resolve the issue, which new club president Tenielle Edge
said would be used to consult further with members.
She said the club was intent on reaching a decision with which most members were comfortable.
“We want a future,” Edge told the Loddon Herald.
Ideally, that future was a longterm one.
“You don’t want to be doing this all again in 12 months,” she said.
“But in the current climate, with every league, I’m not sure you can make a decision to cover more than 12 months.
“I’m not sure there is a league that’s not worried about its future.”
Ultima, one of the other five clubs in the Golden Rivers com-
petition, has been granted a move to the Central Murray league, with Hay, Moulamein, Murrabit and Wandella likely to follow.
However, some Central Murray clubs are reportedly unhappy with a rule change which removed their voting rights on issues such as club transfers.
The Picola option could involve a separate division comprised of the five remaining Golden Rivers clubs in a kind of mini league that would alleviate travel concerns.
“We’re not going to be able to please everybody,” Edge said.
“It’s hard on the committee –we’re all volunteers – to be making a decision that could result in making people leave. “I think we
have a strong future; we’ve got a great membership base and a great support network.”
While a one-win season had been disappointing, “we are a lot more than just results”.
The Northern Futures Project, led by the Central Rivers League Board – representing the Central Murray and Golden Rivers leagues with support from AFL Central Victoria – recommended in June that Golden Rivers be wound up at the end of the season.
It called for expansion of the Central Murray league and encouraged clubs to also consider mergers.
- GARY WALSH
Bulls wait before deciding fate of senior and junior sides
BRIDGEWATER will wait until after the football season before deciding whether it can field senior and junior teams in the Upper Loddon Cricket Association competition for 2025-26.
Club president John Daldy said after the Bridgewater AGM this week that “we are working towards having a team. “We still want a senior side and a junior side.”
Bridgewater returned to the association
last season after a year in recess, increasing the competition to five teams.
The club initially struggled to be competitive, with many juniors doubling up in the senior team, and had to forfeit one round.
But there were some narrow defeats, and a remarkable tie with subsequent premiers Kingower in the final match of the home and away season. “I’m pretty sure we will get one team up,” said Daldy, who is also president of
the association. “We’ve got a little team pushing for it, but we won’t know until the end of the football season,” he said, noting that potential players often didn’t make up their minds until football commitments were over.
Daldy was “not 100 per cent sure” he would seek re-election as ULCA president.
“There are a few things I have to work through personally and with the association.”
- GARY WALSH
MEN
Sea Lake Nandaly 2 drew Wedderburn 2.
Donald 1 lost to Calder United 3. St Arnaud 9
d Boort 1. Charlton Bye.
Ladder: Calder United 31, St Arnaud 29, Donald 28, Boort 20, Wedderburn 15, Sea Lake Nandaly 7, Charlton 0.
WOMEN
Sea Lake Nandaly 1 lost to Wedderburn 5.
Donald 1 lost to Calder United 2. St Arnaud 5
d Boort 0. Charlton Bye.
Ladder: St Arnaud 33, Calder United 33, Charlton 27, Wedderburn 19, Boort 15, Donald 7, Sea Lake Nandaly 0.
UNDERAGE
Donald 1 drew Calder United 1. Charlton 17 d Birchip Watchem 1. St Arnaud 7 d Boort 1. Sea Lake Nandaly Bye.
Ladder: Charlton 39, St Arnaud 31, Donald 19, Boort 16, Calder United 12, Sea Lake Nandaly 7, Birchip Watchem 7. UNDER 12
Sea Lake Nandaly 0 lost to Wedderburn 4. Donald 0 lost to Calder United 6. Charlton 2 drew Birchip Watchem 2. St Arnaud 7 d Boort 0.
Ladder: Calder United 38, Birchip Watchem 37, Charlton 36, St Arnaud 25, Wedderburn 19, Boort 7, Sea Lake Nandaly 7, Donald 6.
Wendy Smith with daughter Hayley and grandson Jye.
Wendy back on field
Boort’s Blake Slatter in action against St Arnaud on Saturday. LH PHOTO
NORTH CENTRAL HOCKEY
Young pair take out Stewart trophy
PYRAMID Hill Golf Club’s annual three-day tournament opened with 29 players contesting Friday’s four-ball best-ball event.
The Jim Stewart Memorial trophy was won by the young pairing of Kyen Maxted and Harrison Condliffe.
A Grade winner were P Condliffe and S Portwine from Runner up: M O’Rielly and D McCowan. B Grade Winner: K Maxted and H Condliffe from D Mann and P Gargan Non-handicap winner: D Rawnsley and S Gallagher. Best 9 in: A Clarke and N Collier Best 9 out: M Hamley and J Headon. NTP 2: L Bartels NTP 12: A Clarke NTP 16: D Cameron NTP 18 (2 nd shot): G Humbert Longest drive (0-15 handicap): B James Longest drive (Over 15 handicap): H Condliffe Longest
drive (Over 60 age): G Fitzpatrick.
Saturday saw the stroke event played with the W H Schmidt trophy won by Jonathon Curnick and the Soufflet Cup by Don Stewart.
A Grade 27 Hole Scratch Winner: Jonathon Curnick. Handicap: Don Stewart. 18 Hole Scratch: Michael Morris. Handicap: Peter Sanderson. 9 Hole Scratch: Aaron Morris. Handicap: Brian Hubble and Brendan James B Grade 27 Hole Scratch: Shane Carmody. Handicap: Tony Mullins. 18 Hole Scratch: Ted Carmody. Handicap: Rob Smith. 9 Hole Scratch: Steve Amos. Handicap: John Kennedy. Ladies: S Hunt NTP 12: Owen Bailey. NTP 16: Jonathon Currie. 2nd Shot on 18: Aaron Morris. Longest drive
A Grade: Aaron Morris. Longest drive B Grade: Paul Walters. Longest drive Veterans: Tony Mullins.
Sunday was ambrose day with the Jan Burke Memorial Stroke title going to Ashley Kuiper, Erica Kuiper and Paul Kuiper.
Jan Burke Memorial Handicap Winner: Don Stewart, Meg Stewart and Adam Twigg.
Any Combination Stroke Winner: Dave McNamara, Leigh Gorrie and Gary Valentine. Any Combination Handicap Winner: Doug Meehan, James Meehan and Chris Meehan. Non-handicap Stroke Winner: Chris Leerson, David Mann and Joel Wheelhouse. Ladies NTP 12: Deanne Free Ladies NTP 16: Maree Ring. Ladies longest drive (A grade): Maree Ring. Ladies longest drive
(B grade): Meg Stewart. Men’s NTP 2: Wayne Maxted Men’s NTP 12: Gary Valentine. Men’s NTP 16: Daryl McGowan. NTP 2 nd shot on 18: Dom Baxter Men’s longest drive (0-15 handicap): Dave McNamara. Men’s longest drive (Over 15 handicap): K Free.
BOORT
Nine players took part in Boort Golf Club’s stableford event as several golfers returned from the local tournament circuit.
With a red-hot putter, Stuart Tweddle claimed his first win of the season with a solid 37 points, two clear of Kevin Linehan, with Andrew Kane and Paul Harris rounding out the ball pool.
In the nearest the pins, Stuart and Andrew managed to share the lot between them.
Some knockout matches were also played, with Damien Lanyon defeating Peter Eicher on the 4th extra hole to advance to the singles final, while Peter and Stuart teamed up to beat Andrew and Damien on the 18th in the pairs.
MITIAMO
The Mitiamo club’s annual Kevin McCarthy Memorial Shield Day raised $2000 for the Blue Ribbon Foundation. Shield winners were Nathan Dennis and Ethan Hocking 46 points from Adam Gould and Brett Holmes 44 points.
Non-Handicap Division: Peter Rice and Stephen Clegg 41 points from Chris Lloyd and Stuart Craven 38. NTP 2nd Shot No.7 – Jim Ginnivan. Long Drive – Paul Condliffe.
Winners of the Jim Stewart Memorial four-ball event Harrison Condliffe and Kyen Maxted. LH PHOTOS
Phil Hamley, James Landau and Adam Twigg at the Pyramid Hill tournament
Jed Stewart takes a break during Friday’s competition
SENIORS
Mitiamo 3.3 4.7 6.7 8.8 (56)
Bridgewater 8.3 19.5 25.9 32.12 (204)
GOALS – Mitiamo: B. Baines, A. Lloyd, K. Galvin 2, C. Tuohey, A. Cussen. Bridgewater: L. Sharp 11, O. McKinley 10, B. Alexander 3, N. Naughton 2, J. Roberts, A. Powell, T. Estrada, L. Ellings, X. Walsh, J. Green.
BEST – Mitiamo: Z. Morrison, M. Gilmour, S. Wright, L. Lougoon, A. Huismann, A. Lloyd. Bridgewater: B. Derrick, L. Ellings, O. McKinley, L. Sharp, D. Ferguson, J. Milligan.
Newbridge 3.2 5.3 5.3 5.3 (33)
Marong 4.6 11.8 19.11 26.17 (173)
GOALS – Newbridge: B. Schilling 3, T. Constable 2. Marong: M. Bradbury 8, J. McCaig, K. Robins 3, R. McNamara, D. Johnstone, K. Manley 2, L. Lee, R. Taylor, S. Knott, N. McCaig, J. Ede, L. Frankel.
BEST – Newbridge: A. Willett, W. Copland, C. Argus, B. Schilling, C. Sanders, C. Van Aken. Marong: M. Bradbury, L. Lee, J. Ede, D. Johnstone, J. McCaig, N. Devanny. Calivil 1.0 2.2 2.4 2.5 (17) BL Serpentine 7.2 12.3 21.6 24.12 (156)
GOALS – Calivil: A. Dennis, H. McCarthy. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Mellington 13, J. Podosky, N. Twigg, C. Gadsden 2, J. Laird, J. Bailey, N. Kemp, R. Turner, D. Nihill.
BEST – Calivil: J. Maher, H. McCarthy, S. Green, A. Dennis, J. Leach, T. Wakefield. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Mellington, T. Miles, N. Twigg, J. Bailey, R. Turner, H. Gadsden. Pyramid Hill 3.4 11.8 15.14 20.21 (141) Maiden Gully 3.0 7.2 7.3 7.6 (48)
GOALS – Pyramid Hill: B. Bisset 6, H. Goodes 5, R. Semmel 2, Z. Alford, A. Hildebrandt, X. Emmerson, K. Daniels, B. George, B. Carroll, B. Moon. Maiden Gully: T. James 5, T. Webster, M. Hill.
BEST – Pyramid Hill: K. Daniels, B. George, H. Goodes, A. Hildebrandt, R. Semmel, B. Bisset. Maiden Gully: A. Robins, D. Russell, S. Fiske, T. James, M. Hill, L. Sobina.
UNDER 18
Pyramid Hill 0.0
(0)
Maiden Gully 4.7 10.11 18.17 24.18 (162)
GOALS – Maiden Gully: L. Hancock 11, J. Wittingslow 4, O. Taylor, C. Attard 2, N. Hadden, S. Neervoort, D. Bown, H. Healey, D. Warren.
BEST – Pyramid Hill: T. Caine, T. Pritchard, D. Hammer, M. Caspani, J. Hercott, E. Ray. Maiden Gully: L. Hancock, J. Wittingslow, H. Carter, Z. Turner, D. Warren, O. Taylor.
Bridgewater
Marong
(95)
(63)
GOALS – St Arnaud: T. Petrie 9, J. Hicks 4, H. McNally, B. Greenaway. Boort: A. Cockerell 3, J. Vella 2, J. Hall, C. Gooding, C. O’Rourke, N. Scott.
BEST – St Arnaud: T. Petrie, R. Burke, T. Ward, L. Ezard, B. Knight, H. Darby. Boort: W. Toose, A. Trethowan, A. Cockerell, J. Hall, D. King, R. Wagner.
Donald
(32)
(105)
(0)
(193)
- Calder United: C. Green 9, D. Kelly 7, Z. Kelly, H. Connolly, G. Forrester, H. Senior 2, C. Fawcett, S. Kelly, K. Kennedy, R. Botheras, R. Jones, D. McLennan.
RESERVES
Pyramid Hill 3.2 9.4 12.5 16.8 (104)
Maiden Gully 1.2 3.4 7.5 9.6 (60)
GOALS – Pyramid Hill: R. Pollock 5, M. Thompson 3, T. McIntosh, M. Dingwall, S. Relouw 2, P. Monaghan, R. Mitchell. Maiden Gully: J. Doolan 3, M. James, K. Nicholls 2, T. Baker, O. Taylor.
BEST – Pyramid Hill: N. Moon, R. Mitchell, G. James, R. James, T. McIntosh, B. Coates. Maiden Gully: R. Crothers, H. Kleehammer, M. James, J. Doolan, O. Taylor, K. Nicholls. Calivil 1.1 1.2 1.2 3.3 (21) BL Serpentine 5.3 6.9 12.13 14.17 (101)
GOALS – Calivil: S. Fawcett 2, Z. Petri. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: D. McKay 3, K. Paxton, D. Tineo, F. Holland 2, M. Hancock, D. Poulter, J. Gladman, J. Murley. BEST – Calivil: E. Ritchie, J. Lea, B. Coates, B. Jenkin, J. Coad, D. Canfield. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: D. Tineo, T. Clarke, C. Davies, K. Paxton, D. McKay, J. Gladman. Newbridge
GOALS – Newbridge: C. Lakey. Marong: C. Hale, D. Blume 4, M. Lowery, B. Stewart, K. McCaig, B. Matthews, A. Collins. BEST – Newbridge: S. Gale, A. Moore, J. McLeod, D. Whan, O. Friswell, K. Bertuch. Marong: C. Hale, H. Baker, W. Gadsden, B. Stewart, D. Blume, A. Collins.
Mitiamo 1.0 1.1 2.5 2.5 (17)
Bridgewater 4.4 10.7 14.10 19.14 (128) GOALS – Mitiamo: O. McMinn 2. Bridgewater: J. Campbell 4, M. Brooks, B. Holt 3, T. Naughton, R. Commons 2, J. McKinley, M. Baxter, C. Clapp, J. Higgins, A. McDowell. BEST – Mitiamo: J. Hann, M. Hocking, E. Hocking, O. McMinn, N. Hicks, D. Mitchell. Bridgewater: A. McDowell, M. Baker, J. Higgins, T. Naughton, M. Brooks, C. Clapp.
GOALS – Bridgewater: J. Larson 2, S. Hewett-Scull, T. Waters, T. Woodhatch. Marong: C. Dudderidge 5, J. Gribble 3, W. Thomson, C. Murphy, M. O’Donnell 2, J. Taylor. BEST – Bridgewater: T. Waters, S. McMahon, J. Metherell, L. Lonsdale, T. Woodhatch, L. Bartlett. Marong: C. Dudderidge, L. Henson, W. Thomson, R. Hayden, L. Thomas, H. Roberts. East Loddon 1.0
Inglewood 2.3
(35)
(87)
GOALS – East Loddon: A. Roulston, M. Haw 2, T. Tweed. Inglewood: M. Pickering 8, R. Murphy 2, R. Smith, K. McClellan, W. Schepers.
BEST – East Loddon: K. Maxted, A. Addlem, J. Smith, T. Smith, M. Haw. Inglewood: W. Schepers, R. Smith, H. Noble, M. Pickering, T. Murphy, E. McCoy.
BEST – Donald: E. Clapham, C. Slattery, B. Barber, D. Tatarskyj, G. Burke, N. Clark. Calder United: D. McLennan, C. Green, R. Botheras, H. Connolly, Z. Kelly, D. Kelly.
– Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Clohesy 6, I. Durie, C. Elliott 3, E. Ellis, C. Tait, J. Cox, B. Weir 2, W. Landry, T. Griffiths. Wedderburn: B. Huismann, O. Huismann, L. Maher.
BEST – Sea Lake Nandaly: C. Michael, C. Allan, C. Tait, I. Durie, B. Weir, J. Stacey. Wedderburn: J. Jones, A. Younghusband, R. Tonkin, F. Turnbull, N. Winslett, S. Carroll.
NORTH CENTRAL
SENIORS
St Arnaud
GOALS – St Arnaud: J. Male 2, K. Torney, L. Jackson, S. Elliott, O. Lowe, D. Schilder. Boort: J. Baddeley-Kelly 7, E. Coleman 4, L. Hall, J. Byrne, K. Rutley, P. Barbopoulos 2, J. Keeble, C. Hatcher.
BEST – St Arnaud: D. Gifford, K. Torney, O. Lowe, J. Kirwood, J. Needs, J. Male. Boort: J. Baddeley-Kelly, L. Hall, K. Rutley, M. Austin, E. Coleman, T. Potter.
Donald 0.1 0.2
Calder United 8.5 11.16
(10)
(218)
GOALS – Donald: B. Arho. Calder United: J. Exell 10, S. Kennedy, M. Farmer 4, J. Humphreys, R. Allan 3, Z. Keighran, K. Hommelhoff, O. Madden 2, G. Turner, B. Barker.
BEST – Donald: R. Young, B. Arho, C. Campbell, D. Pearce, S. Arho, H. Forrest. Calder United: K. Hommelhoff, Z. Keighran, J. Exell, S. Kennedy, J. Humphreys, G. Turner.
Sea Lake Nandaly 5.2
Wedderburn
– Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Durie, Z. Wight, B. Kelly, B. Allan, C. Symes, H. Cox. Wedderburn: N. Winslett, A. Smith, D. Tansley, W. Cunningham, M. Dean.
(7)
– Charlton: J. Roberts, L. Monaghan, S. Olive, L. Van Boven, M. Fitzpatrick, S. Zagame. Birchip Watchem: N. Dean, O. Cook, C. Jones, M. Field.
(56)
– Donald: O. Brennan, J. Lydom, J. Borden, E. Clapham, J. Nuske, S. Mortlock. Calder United: M. Fawcett, T. Vearing, A. Cowell, D. Coles, H. Humphreys, H. Bartlett.
Arnaud
(41)
St Arnaud: W. Thomas, F. Green, J. Batters, C. Hendy, B. Donald, T. Berryman. Boort: J. O’Flaherty, C. Gooding, R. Wagner, B. McPherson, D. Perryman, L. Boyd.
(107)
(42)
GOALS – Sea Lake Nandaly: M. Cahoon, C. O’Sullivan, J. Summerhayes 3, B. Delmenico, A. Pattison 2, J. Keogh, A. Mertz, T. Donnan. Wedderburn: M. McEwen, M. Jensen 2, J. McEwen, J. Mortlock.
BEST – Sea Lake Nandaly: A. Pattison, T. Donnan, K. Donnan, C. O’Sullivan, W. Donnan, J. Poulton. Wedderburn: J. McEwen, C. Lowry, D. Benaim, M. McEwen, I. Holt, N. Furlong.
Charlton 0.0
Birchip Watchem
(9)
(180)
GOALS – Charlton: B. Kemp. Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 11, N. Rippon, S. Simmons 3, G. Addis, J. Christie 2, T. Gibson, D. Bell, R. Hogan Jr, A. Dean, M. Rippon, D. Hinkley.
BEST – Charlton: B. Lanyon, J. Zagame, P. Soulsby, R. Thompson, J. Thompson, J. Harris. Birchip Watchem: N. Rippon, S. Simmons, D. Bell, B. Edwards, A. Dean, T. Gibson.
Birchip Watchem
RESERVES
Charlton
Birchip
GOALS – Birchip Watchem: C. Goode 4, S. Pye, T. Wiantara, M. Rickard 2, L. Sirett, B. Colbert, A. Lewis, R. Doran, B. Baxter, P. Lakin.
BEST – Charlton: L. Dunne, J. Durie, T. Salmon, J. Dean-Gilley, J. Leathan. Birchip Watchem: S. Pye, T. Colbert, B. Colbert, M. Rickard, T. Wiantara, J. Woods.
– Charlton: C. Zagame, D. Olive, L. Monaghan, S. Cossar, I. Roberts, T. Fitzpatrick. Birchip Watchem: H. Jones, A. Tyler, D. Tyler, D. Coffey.
BEST – Sea Lake Nandaly: R. Allan, H. Wight, G. Durie, T. Allan, H. Landry, H. Cox. Wedderburn: B. Cramp, C. Gault, J. LavertySmith, A. Polkinghorne, Z. Polkinghorne, W. Huismann.
(13)
BEST – Donald: S. Mortlock, E. Geddes, R. Jones, M. Podasca, J. Hepworth, L. Stopps. Calder United: N. Harrison, R. Harrison, D. Polzin, F. Polzin, H. Humphreys, B. Hogan.
BEST – St Arnaud: P. Zsigmond, F. Wilson, F. Evans, J. Wait, L. Ezard, R. Batters. Boort: S. Soumelidis, S. Muller, C. McNally, N. Howe, T. Broad.
LODDON VALLEY
Superoos snare minor title
MITIAMO completed the homeand-away season undefeated in Loddon Valley A Grade netball, sealing its perfect record with a commanding win over finalsbound Bridgewater last Saturday.
The Superoos, last season’s premiers, won 75-45 over the Mean Machine to head into their week off on a high.
Bridgewater will face Marong in the elimination final this weekend at Mitiamo.
Mitiamo surged to a 15-goal lead in the first quarter and increased the margin at every change.
Bridgewater’s strongest term was the third, in which it scored 14 goals to 15.
Coach Abbey Battersby said it was a welcome solid contest against Bridgey, especially with the week off approaching.
“The game was 8-0 early on and Bridgey seemed a bit unsettled,” she said.
“But they got better, and it was still a tough game.
“We’ve had Bridgewater and Marong giving us some really tough hit outs – tougher than the scores suggest.”
Battersby said the team would train tonight as normal and have a half-court session on Saturday
to try to keep the momentum rolling into the second semi-final next week against either Pyramid Hill or Newbridge.
A potential practice match this week with Elmore fell through because the clubs were unable to agree on a date.
PYRAMID Hill will take on Newbridge in this week’s qualifying final at Marong full of confidence after thumping Maiden Gully by 60 goals.
The Bulldogs poured on 43 goals to seven in a dominant second half to win 84-24.
Pyramid Hill finished three games ahead of Newbridge in second place on the ladder and is favoured to win through to another battle with Mitiamo.
The two clubs played off in last season’s grand final, with the Superoos winning by six goals after having been defeated two weeks earlier in the second semi-final by the Bulldogs.
The grand final was played at Mitiamo’s home court, and this year will be contested at Newbridge.
Maiden Gully ended the season in seventh spot with four wins.
NEWBRIDGE beat fellow finalists Marong by 10 goals after leading throughout the game.
The Maroons have a tough task in coming up against Pyramid Hill this week after finishing three games behind the Bulldogs on the ladder.
Marong won the last quarter by 14 goals to 11, providing some welcome momentum going into the finals, where they face Bridgewater in an elimination match.
Lauren Knight and Rachel Pettifer were named as Newbridge’s best players.
CALIVIL versus Bears Lagoon Serpentine was a dead rubber, with neither team in the finals mix, but Serp put a seal on its claim to be the best of the rest with a 32-goal win.
The victory saw the Bears end the season in sixth place, one spot and one game behind Marong.
Star goaler Ava Francis was in fine form despite being doubleteamed at times by Demons defenders as Bears Lagoon Serpentine charged to a 10-goal lead at the first break.
Another 17 goals to Calivil’s four in the second quarter put the match well out of the Demons’ reach.
Calivil finished second last on the ladder, with three wins for the year.
Three teams locked in double battle
and Birchip
enter the last round of North Central A Grade netball in a tight battle for finals places and the double chance.
The Magpies’ 73-28 win over bottom side St Arnaud has put them in the box seat to claim second place on the ladder.
That would give them the double chance and the dubious honour of facing unbeaten Wedderburn in the second semi-final.
Boort coach Carly Isaac, however, said the Magpies would relish another crack at the Redbacks in a second semi-final, which will be played at Boort.
“We haven’t played them at full strength this season,” she said.
“Both times we have had one or two players out and have played a few junior girls.”
Sea Lake can still overtake Boort if it can manage a big win over Calder United.
That unlikely prospect would mean surpassing the Magpies’ percentage, which will almost certainly get a boost from their clash with second-last Charlton.
The Tigers need to make up more than 3 per cent to sneak past Boort.
Fifth-placed Birchip is a very slim chance to dis-
place Calder from the finals if the Lions lose to Sea Lake by a large margin and the Bulls can thump Donald, which has won only four times this season. WEDDERBURN did local rivals Boort a favour by beating Sea Lake 46-26, enabling the Magpies to leapfrog the Tigers into second.
The Tigers lost powerful goal shooter Nakia Nunn to an ankle injury in the second quarter, which limited their scoring options for the rest of the game.
Redbacks coach Susie Lockhart said it was a very physical outing, even more so than the previous week’s match against Boort.
“Sea Lake are good – they contest the ball hard and they are pretty clever,” she said.
“It didn’t really feel like we were winning by 20 goals.”
Olivia Lockhart, Sophie Cockerell, Maddy Postle and Kelsey Pallpratt were named as the Redbacks’ best.
With both A Grade and B Grade teams undefeated, Wedderburn will head into the finals with an enviable depth of talent.
“We’re pretty well covered in every position,” coach Lockhart said.
The Redbacks face cellar-dweller St Arnaud in the final round.
LODDON VALLEY NORTH CENTRAL
A Grade
Mitiamo 22, 40, 55, 75, (75) d Bridgewater 7, 18, 32, 45, (45). Calivil 9, 13, 25, 34, (34) lost to Bears Lagoon Serpentine 19, 36, 53, 66, (66).
Pyramid Hill 20, 41, 59, 84, (84) d Maiden Gully 8, 17, 20, 24, (24). Newbridge 15, 29, 38, 49, (49) d Marong 7, 19, 25, 39, (39).
Mitiamo 64
Hill 56
44
36
32
Serpentine 28
Gully 16
12 Inglewood 0
A Reserve
Newbridge 13, 23, 31, 38, (38) drew Marong 5, 16, 29, 38, (38). Pyramid Hill 11, 22, 38, 47, (47) lost to Maiden Gully 13, 29, 40, 54, (54). Calivil 17, 27, 41, 56, (56) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 7, 14, 22, 33, (33). Mitiamo 11, 27, 33, 38, (38) lost to Bridgewater 17, 39, 54, 73, (73).
Bridgewater 56
Gully 50
48
Hill 42
Newbridge 36
Mitiamo 26
Calivil 22
BL Serpentine 8
Inglewood 0
B Grade
Newbridge 9, 15, 22, 31, (31) lost to Marong 12, 29, 44, 59, (59). Calivil 5, 13, 22, 30, (30) lost to Bears Lagoon Serpentine 12, 25, 37, 57, (57).
Mitiamo 5, 8, 16, 21, (21) lost to Bridgewater 16, 34, 46, 55, (55). Pyramid Hill 12, 23, 31, 42, (42) d Maiden Gully 8, 14, 21, 30, (30). Bridgewater 60
56
44
14
8
B Reserve
Calivil 11, 26, 35, 48, (48) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 10, 20, 34, 44, (44). Newbridge 12, 19, 33, 42, (42) lost to Marong 13, 25, 37, 49, (49). Mitiamo 4, 7, 8, 10, (10) lost to Bridgewater 17, 34, 55, 76, (76). Pyramid Hill 13, 23, 33, 45, (45) d Maiden Gully 12, 21, 30, 39, (39).
56
Serpentine 4
Under 17
Mitiamo 5, 7, 12, 12, (12) lost to Bridgewater 11, 29, 51, 75, (75). Newbridge 8, 9, 15, 19, (19) lost to Marong 13, 32, 43, 57, (57). Calivil 17, 31, 49, 65, (65) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 7, 18, 27, 38, (38). Pyramid Hill 5, 13, 23, 28, (28) lost to Maiden Gully 13, 32, 45, 60, (60). Calivil 60
Bridgewater 56
Maiden Gully 48
Marong 44
BL Serpentine 32
Mitiamo 18
Pyramid Hill 16
Inglewood 10
Newbridge 4
Under 15
Calivil 16, 33, 54, 70, (70) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 5, 10, 14, 20, (20). Mitiamo 5, 8, 13, 14, (14) lost to Bridgewater 13, 33, 46, 64, (64).
Newbridge 3, 8, 9, 10, (10) lost to Marong 17, 44, 58, 78, (78). Pyramid Hill 5, 10, 18, 29, (29) lost to Maiden Gully 10, 16, 25, 31, (31).
Calivil 64
Marong 52
Bridgewater 44
BL Serpentine 44
Maiden Gully 34
Pyramid Hill 22
Inglewood 20
Mitiamo 8
Newbridge 0
Under 13
Newbridge 4, 14, 24, 32, (32) d Marong 5, 9, 13, 14, (14). Mitiamo 8, 17, 24, 32, (32) lost to Bridgewater 11, 20, 31, 40, (40). Calivil 14, 21, 33, 42, (42) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 1, 7, 9, 10, (10). Pyramid Hill 7, 16, 20, 27, (27) lost to Maiden Gully 10, 21, 30, 37, (37).
Newbridge 64
Maiden Gully 48
Calivil 44
Marong 40
Pyramid Hill 32
Bridgewater 28
Inglewood 16
BL Serpentine 12
Mitiamo 4
A Grade
Charlton 10, 27, 41, 54, (54) lost to Birchip Watchem 23, 37, 52, 63, (63). Sea Lake Nandaly 10, 12, 21, 26, (26) lost to Wedderburn 7, 23, 33, 46, (46). St Arnaud 6, 15, 23, 28, (28) lost to Boort 25, 42, 52, 73, (73). Donald 6, 10, 17, 27, (27) lost to Calder United 14, 27, 42, 51, (51).
Wedderburn 60
Boort 44
Sea Lake Nandaly 44
Calder United 36
Birchip Watchem 32
Donald 16
Charlton 6 St Arnaud 2
B Grade
Charlton 9, 15, 21, 29, (29) lost to Birchip Watchem 10, 25, 40, 51, (51). Sea Lake Nandaly 8, 17, 26, 41, (41) lost to Wedderburn 20, 37, 48, 65, (65). St Arnaud 12, 17, 30, 45, (45) lost to Boort 11, 23, 35, 46, (46). Donald 4, 7, 12, 16, (16) lost to Calder United 15, 27, 38, 48, (48).
Wedderburn 60
Calder United 48 Boort 44
Birchip Watchem 40 St Arnaud 20
Sea Lake Nandaly 18 Donald 10
Charlton 0
C Grade
Charlton 6, 12, 19, 30, (30) lost to Birchip Watchem 13, 27, 45, 56, (56). Sea Lake Nandaly 14, 26, 34, 47, (47) lost to Wedderburn 15, 24, 39, 53, (53). St Arnaud 4, 13, 20, 25, (25) lost to Boort 8, 21, 26, 39, (39). Donald 4, 11, 14, 20, (20) lost to Calder United 22, 41, 61, 83, (83).
Calder United 56
Sea Lake Nandaly 15, 38, 49, 61, (61) d Wedderburn 9, 13, 19, 26, (26). St Arnaud 3, 10, 12, 20, (20) lost to Boort 18, 37, 64, 77, (77). Boort 40
Sea Lake Nandaly 40
Calder United 24
Birchip Watchem 16
Wedderburn 8 St Arnaud 0
17 & Under
St Arnaud 13, 25, 38, 51, (51) d Boort 9, 19, 27, 40, (40). Sea Lake Nandaly 14, 22, 33, 48, (48) d Wedderburn 8, 15, 28, 34, (34). Charlton 10, 14, 19, 22, (22) lost to Birchip Watchem 11, 25, 38, 48, (48). Donald 0, 2, 2, 4, (4) lost to Calder United 27, 56, 82, 112, (112). Calder United 56
Birchip Watchem 52
St Arnaud 38
Boort 38
Sea Lake Nandaly 28
Charlton 16
Wedderburn 8
Donald 0 14 & Under A
Charlton 0, 1, 2, 2, (2) lost to Birchip Watchem 7, 16, 28, 32, (32). Donald 8, 11, 15, 22, (22) d Calder United 4, 8, 12, 16, (16). St Arnaud (12) lost to Boort (24). Sea Lake Nandaly 14, 20, 29, 35, (35) d
BOORT, Sea Lake Nandaly, Calder United
Watchem
Boort’s Carly Isaac in action against St Arnaud on Saturday. LH PHOTO
GOALKICKING
LODDON VALLEY
109
70
59
42
Pies out of the blocks
AN OPENING quarter blitz against St Arnaud has sealed Boort’s return to North Central football finals action for the first time in a decade.
The Pies dominated the first term against an undermanned Saints who have opted to give youngsters with a potential a run in the seniors.
But it was Boort’s younger brigade with growing senior experience who were at the forefront of play during crucial moments of the match at Lord Nelson Park.
The Saints showed more than a handful of passages as they exposed Boort’s level of defensive skills in a dominant second term.
17 - (1) - Steven Neervoort - Maiden Gully NORTH CENTRAL SENIORS
116 - (11) - Ben Edwards - Birchip Watchem
68 - (7) - Jhye Baddeley-Kelly - Boort
61 - (10) - Jack Exell - Calder United
55 - (3) - Max Cahoon - Sea Lake Nandaly
53 - (2) - Mitch Jensen - Wedderburn
34 - (3) - Nicholas Rippon - Birchip Watchem
33 - (2) - Kayne Rutley - Boort RESERVES
48 - (6) - Joel Clohesy - Sea Lake Nandaly
42 - (3) - Alex Cockerell - Boort
29 - (0) - Matthew Berry - Birchip Watchem
They were able to run the ball better into the forward zone and outscored the Pies, and bridging a little of the huge lead that the visitors had been allowed to amass in a dominant opening term.
St Arnaud was held scoreless in that opening 30minute onslaught when Jhye Baddeley-Kelly started working towards a day’s haul of seven goals for Boort.
But the Pies’ goal guru didn’t have play on his terms. He kicked as many behind as goals and a few not even within the sticks.
Daniel Gifford proved the general of the backline for St Arnaud, turning over play and linking through the midfield on countless occasions.
Torney and Lowe were active across the midfield while constant rotations saw Jake Male kicking two of St Arnaud’s seven
BRIDGEWATER’S
goals for the day, five others registering majors.
The Saints were down more than a handful of regular players for the penultimate match of the season.
The younger brigade was again given a chance to earn some stripes and were key cogs in a performance that was full of grit.
However, Boort’s more experienced players and rising young-
sters Tom Potter and Lachie Hall were able to steer the Pies towards regaining momentum late in the third term.Boort added six goals to one in the final quarterand five behinds - to run out victors by 91 points.
The Saints travel to Wedderburn’s Donaldson Park on Saturday for the final match of the home and away.
The Redbacks has mathemati-
cally still been in the hunt for a finals before until last Saturday’s loss to reigning premiers Sea Lake Nandaly.
Wedderburn has had the upper hand in the two earlier meetings this season, winning by 72 and 111 points. St Arnaud has only one last opportunity in 2025 to extend the exciting glimpses of what is ahead and push higher teams on the ladder for longer.
LODDON VALLEY FINALS - WEEK ONE PREVIEWS
Mean Machine rolling along Return of key six will be big boost to Blues
potent forward line will be put to the test in Saturday’s qualifying final against Pyramid Hill – both by the Bulldogs and potentially by the Marist College oval on which the game will be played.
this week, with ruckman Lachlan Sidebottom among the likely inclusions. He said almost half of the team to feature on Saturday did not play in last season’s losing grand final.
INGLEWOOD will be looking for revenge when it meets Bears Lagoon Serpentine in Sunday’s elimination final at Mitiamo.
in an impressive show of depth, with the reserves and under-18 teams also in the finals.
29 - (0) - Alexander Hay - Birchip-Watchem 26
(2) - George Forrester - Calder United
The surface of Maiden Gully’s home ground is notoriously heavy and slippery after rain, which is forecast for late in the week, including on match day.
Boggy ground conditions would not favour either side, in Fitzpatrick’s view.
“They have bulls in the midfield and nippy outside players as well, and so do we,” he said.
The Bears have beaten the Woodies twice this season, by just 10 points in round two and 31 points in round 11.
- (2) - Heath Senior - Calder United Boort’s
Hall NORTH CENTRAL Wedderburn v St Arnaud Boort v Charlton
Birchip Watchem v Donald Calder United v Sea Lake Nandaly THIS SATURDAY
League teams available on Thursday nights at www.loddonherald.com.au
While centurion Lachlan Sharp and fellow Mean Machine forward Oscar McKinley are in rare form, adverse conditions could limit their impact.
Sharp has kicked 34 goals in the past three matches, with McKinley booting 10 last week against Mitiamo, so quelling their influence is critical if the Bulldogs are to win.
Bridgewater coach Sharp, who hit the 100-goal mark for the season against the Superoos, was effusive in his praise for McKinley, who is based on the Gold Coast and has been available for only eight games in 2025.
“He has been fantastic for us this year,” Sharp said.
“He is one of those players you love to play with.
“Oscar has really been a pillar for us, and I’m looking forward to the next month and him playing some really good footy.”
Pyramid Hill coach Nathan Fitzpatrick said the Bulldogs would field close to a full side
Bridgewater and Pyramid Hill have split their meetings this year, with the Bulldogs winning by 41 points in round five, and the Mean Machine by 56 points in round 14.
That round-five loss was Bridgewater’s most recent defeat, with the side embarking on an 11-game winning streak that has included four by more than 100 points and an average margin just shy of 90 points.
Pyramid Hill has struggled to replace the league’s best defender, Tom McGregor, who moved to the Mallee Eagles in the Central Murray league this season.
However, the arrival of highleaping ruck-forward Kai Daniels has given the Bulldogs’ onball division a huge boost with his elite tap work. He has also averaged almost a goal a game while resting forward.
Sharp was wary of Daniels’ potential impact, describing him as having been “pivotal” for Pyramid.
The early narrow loss came in a stretch of games in which Inglewood was highly competitive against three of last season’s finalists.
The Woodies lost by less than two goals to three-time premiers Marong, Serp and Bridgewater in the first three rounds.
Inglewood comes off the bye and will welcome six key inclusions to a side with five successive wins.
Coach Fergus Payne will return, along with vice-captain Daniel Polack, Lachlan Harris, Jackson Hood, Tom Kennedy and Cal March, who has served a onematch suspension.
The senior side has featured more than 40 players this year
Serp will have coach Jake Wilkinson back after two weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring strain, but will sorely miss reigning Harding medallist Justin Laird, who was suspended after last week’s win over Calivil. Bears spearhead Josh Mellington will have a huge say in the outcome, after kicking 92 goals in 11 matches including 34 in the past three games.
He missed both matches against Inglewood this season with injury.
Payne said his team had a range of options to play on the former Fremantle AFL player.
“We’ll discuss within the coaching group a few players for him, because he’s quite a good player.”
Wilkinson said Serp would rely on “our press, our ability to harass and tackle, against a quality side who we can’t allow too much time and space”.
LEAGUE’S GOAL CORRECTION
AN ERROR on the Loddon Valley league’s website had threatened to sow confusion in Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s gun full-forward Josh Mellington bid to kick 100 goals for the season. Official statistics at the beginning of this week had Mellington on 86 goals in 2025. However, a game-by-game analysis showed he had booted 92 goals. The discrepancy occurred in round 14, when the Bears beat Marong by 12 points in a shock result and Mellington kicked six. Mellington’s tally was updated this week.
Lachie
Boort’s Jarrod Fitzpatrick moves play against St Arnaud on Saturday. LH PHOTO
T rusty left boots goal 100
BRIDGEWATER coach Lachlan Sharp kicked 11 goals against Mitiamo on Saturday, but it seemed that only the first two really mattered.
Two goals a few minutes into the match took the Mean Machine star to 100 for the season and cued the traditional ground invasion.
A set shot on his trusty left boot from about 25 metres out brought dozens onto the field, many of them shirtless Bridgewater reserves players.
Some brandished confetti poppers – we are assured they were bio-degradable – briefly turning Sharp’s celebration into a kind of bizarre kids’ party.
His children, Tige and Rumi, came onto the ground with their grandmother and posed for pictures after Sharp had emerged from the joyous scrum of teammates and supporters.
Sharp told the Loddon Herald the milestone was “fun when you do it, and at the same time you want it over quickly.
“We have got bigger things on the horizon.”
Sharp’s second successive century in his two years with Bridgewater highlighted another bag for the classy forward.
He has kicked 34 goals in the past three matches and enters the final series in scintillating form.
In an ominous sign for teams
By GARY WALSH
facing the Mean Machine in the finals, Sharp’s teammate Oscar McKinley booted 10 goals against Mitiamo in the 148-point win.
McKinley, who is based on the Gold Coast, has only played eight games for the season but has kicked 38 goals as part of a dynamic two-pronged attack.
He is expected to be available for all of Bridgewater’s finals, beginning this week against Pyramid Hill.
McKinley’s emergence as a goal kicker is a significant point of difference with last season, when few were able to add meaningfully to Sharp’s 138 goals.
Bridgewater’s eight first-quarter goals led to another 11 in the second term and an 88-point half-time margin as the out matched Superoos struggled to hit the scoreboard.
But the Mitiamo players never gave up and, in the end, managed to kick eight goals to end a muchimproved season.
Coach Luke Lougoon took responsibility for Sharp early on and finished as one of his side’s best players with Zach Morrison, Matt Gilmour and Seth Wright.
Sharp and McKinley were understandably among Bridgewater’s best, along with Ben Derrick and Harding Medal fancy Luke Ellings.
Flying Bears leave Demons floundering
BEARS Lagoon Serpentine tuned up for the finals with a romp over bottom side Calivil, winning by 139 points, with Josh Mellington kicking 13 goals.
The Bears jumped the Demons in the first quarter and by halftime led by 10 goals.
They kept Calivil goalless in the second half, adding another 12 of their own to seal the confidenceboosting win.
However, it has come at a huge cost with last season’s Harding Medal winner Justin Laird reported and sent off after an incident with Demon Jayden Manderson.
On a perfect day for football, Serp was impeccably accurate in shooting for goal until the last quarter, which yielded 3.6 after the Bears were 21.6 at threequarter time.
Calivil was clearly outgunned but for a period in the second quarter gained control in midfield and looked threatening.
Defender Tyler Miles continued his good form for the Bears to be one of his side’s best.
Mellington’s baker’s dozen made him best afield, while ruckman Nathan Twigg again dominated the hit outs and kicked two goals when resting forward.
Calivil’s two goal scorers, Henry McCarthy and Anthony Dennis were among the Demons’ best with co-captains Jack Maher and Sam Green.
Maher and Manderson shared the unenviable task of trying to
quell the damaging Mellington, whose strength in the contest and strong marking were on display.
Calivil ended the season with just one draw to its name – way back in April in round one – in an injury-riddled year.
Coach Sam Maher has been reappointed for 2026 in a sign of confidence is his leadership.
MARONG left nothing to chance in securing top spot and a week off with a 140-point demolition of Newbridge.
The Maroons failed to score after half-time on its home ground, which will host this season’s Lod-
don Valley grand final. Marong, searching for a fourth premiership in a row, was led by ruckman Michael Bradbury, who shifted forward after the main break and kicked eight goals.
Newbridge was competitive in the first quarter and trailed by only 10 points.
The Panthers kicked seven goals to two in the second term and then another 15 after halftime as the Maroons packed up early for the end of the season.
Co-coach Kain Robins kicked three for the winners and now has 44 for the season.
STANDBY! The real excitement will explode this weekend with the start of Loddon Valley football finals.
Only the optimistic would have tipped that clubs other than the top five would qualify to have a crack at premiership glory.
There’s been fluctuations in fortunes, sure, yet the home and away season has shown that any of these five could be the other on their day.
Bridgewater, probably sitting as flag favourite at the moment, missed the minor premiership by percentage.
The Mean Machine meets Pyramid Hill in Saturday’s qualifying final. They’ve Sharp bobbing up all the time around goals, kicking them himself and bringing others into the game.
Pyramid Hill on the other hand has lots of querstion marks. How are the Bulldogs going for injuries? How many will be right for this weekend?
The Bulldogs are more than capable of winning. Coach Nathan Fitzpatrick might have a rabbit or two ready pull from the hat but on form, the more structurally-sound Bridgewater should earn a semi-final berth against reigning premiers Marong.
Teammate Ryley Taylor booted one to move to 42 goals.
Newbridge full-forward Billy Schlling ended a fine first season with three goals, finishing in the top 10 goalkickers for the year with 41, a tremendous effort in a team that won only three games.
REMARKABLY, Pyramid Hill’s 93-point win over Maiden Gully was the closest margin of the round.
High-leaping ruckman Kaim Daniels was named as the Bulldogs’ best player.
They were also well served by Bailey George, Harrison Goodes and Archie Hildebrandt.
Key forward Ben Bisset booted six, taking his tally for the season to 70, behind only Lachlan Sharp and Josh Mellington.
At half-time, the Eagles were well in the match, trailing by 30 points, but Pyramid hit the accelerator in the second half with 9.13 to 0.4.
Only inaccuracy cost the Bulldogs an even bigger win.
Tyler James, probably Maiden Gully’s best player this season, kicked five of his team’s seven goals, while Anthony Robins, Daniel Russell and Stacy Fiske were also prominent.
The Eagles ended their season with five wins and a draw to finish sixth in a significant improvement on last year.
Pyramid Hill now looks to the qualifying final against in-form Bridgewater at Marist College on Saturday.
Expected a crowd, a very big crowd, at Sunday’s elimination final between Bears Lagoon Serpentine and Inglewood. The clubs have the biggest followings in the league.
The Bears have taken honours twice over Inglewood in the home and away season.
That will mean next to nothing this weekend with Inglewood coming fresh off the bye.
For the Blues to win, the secret will be getting out of the blocks from the first siren.
Paper form suggests the Bears will start as favourites but I’m tipping Inglewood will keep their hopes alive for at least another week.
- GLENN CATTO
PREDICTIONS
Jaxson Addlem keeps the ball in play for Serpentine. LH PHOTO
Lachie Sharp is congratulated by daughter Rumi on goal No 100. LH PHOTO
Loddon HERALD sport
Thursday AUGUST 14, 2025
LEAGUE BEST AND FAIREST TO MISS DO-OR-DIE FINAL
LAIRD SCRUBBED
By GARY WALSH
KEY Bears Lagoon Serpen-
tine enforcer Justin Laird has copped a two-match suspension.
The ban follows a report for striking in Saturday’s Loddon Valley league clash with Calivil. Laird, a former coach at Janiember Park will need the Bears to win two cut-throat finals and make the preliminary final for his 2025 to continue.
He will be on the sidelines for Sunday’s elimination final against Inglewood at Mitiamo’s John Forbes Oval.
And the reigning Frank Harding Medalist is now out of contention for back-to-back awards despite an impressive season.
He entered an early guilty plea to a striking charge, accepting a two-match ban.
The incident occurred in the last few minutes of Serp’s win over Calivil, with the Bears more than 20 goals in front.
Laird and Calivil defender Jayden Manderson had engaged in a minor scuffle on the Bears’ half-forward line, with one Demons player claiming to a field umpire that Laird had kicked his opponent.
The ball was on the wing, with a Serp player about to kick the ball into attack.
Manderson led Laird to the ball, but when he rose to attempt a mark, he was struck in the head with a roundhouse left arm.
The Calivil player fell face down on the turf as players converged for a melee in which Bears defender Sam Maher had his guernsey torn.
Laird was shown a yellow card and had to leave the field, at the same time as Manderson walked from the ground with two trainers at his side.
The strike was graded as intentional, high contact and medium impact, attracting a three-week suspension which could be reduced to two matches with an early guilty plea.
The club decided against taking the issue to the tribunal, which would have meant a four-week ban if an appeal was unsuccessful.
Last season, Serp took star fullforward Josh Mellington’s report for striking against Bridgewater straight to the tribinal, a decision that risked ending his career.
The tribunal threw out the charge, when a two-week suspension would have seen Mellington hit the 16-match career limit, resulting in deregistration and a lifetime ban.
Mellington has been given two reprimands this season under the penalty matrix used by AFL Central Victoria match review panel.
Laird’s suspension may mean he has played his last match for Serp. The gutsy ruck-rover has been linked to North Central league team Calder United for next next season.
He has been with Bears Lagoon
Serpentine since 2017 after playing junior football in Bendigo and with Eaglehawk, Maryborough and Dunolly.
Laird has more than 300 career games, being named best in at least half and kicking 414 goals.
Stepping down as Bears coach after 2023, Laird has been vicecaptain of the side this season and kick one goal on Saturday.
Justin Laird about to be given a yellow card after the late match incident at Calivil. LH PHOITOS
