Loddon Herald 15 August 2024

POLL PREFERENCE

By CHRIS EARL

VETERAN Loddon Shire councillor and mayor Gavan Holt will make his call in a fortnight on whether to seek a sixth term.

Cr Holt has been the Wedderburn Ward representative since 2003 but says his preference is to retire in October.

“I have been part of community chats over recent months to encourage younger, quality candidates to stand in this year’s election where residents can consider them as the next representative of Wedderburn and the people across the ward,” Cr Holt said.

Holt’s ‘retirement’ reveal

“We are at an exciting stage in the rejuvenation and new vibrancy of Wedderburn and the shire as a whole.

“Much has been achieved in recent years and investment is also coming in our future from the State Government with the upgrade of Wedderburn College and plans proceeding for a child care centre.

“More housing, employment and community growth are ahead of us and it is my preference to hand the baton of representation on to a younger person who has the qualities needed to advocate for the ward and contribute to discussion and decisions

that will continue to see business and agriculture at the heart of our local economy.

“If there is no one ready to step up ... perhaps the timing is not quite right for their professional and personal circumstances, I won’t see Wedderburn Ward or the council left in the lurch and would be prepared to renominate for what would definitely be my last term on council.”

Cr Holt said he had a scheduled 10-day break this month and would make the decision when he returned.

Council nominations for the five wardsBoort, Inglewood, Tarnagulla, Terrick and

Wedderburn - open on September 9 and close nine days later. Three challengers have now been confirmed to Tarnagulla Ward’s Cr Linda Jungwirth with Moliagul’s Charmain Sheppard the latest to announce her run.

Inglewood Ward’s Cr Wendy Murphy is yet to declare her intentions. She said last month: “I will make an announcement on my intentions in the coming weeks.”

Cr Dan Straub will seek a second term in Terrick Ward while farmer David Weaver will stand in Boort Ward where long-time councillor Neil Beattie is retiring.

Candidate calls for meeting changes - Page 4

ROAD SAFETY MESSAGE FOR TEENAGERS - Page 2

STRONG START TO RAM SALE SEASON - Page 13

THE numbers were rolling into Pyramid Hill Memorial Hall on Friday when a weekly social seniors bingo was launched. Kim Bennett, John Carroll, Katie McIntosh and Kosi Vulic were among more than a dozen residents for the first session aimed at increasing community connection and having fun. With Kim calling the numbers, the shouts of “bingo” were certainly enthusiastic. LH PHOTO

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INGLEWOOD Football Netball Club held a special road safety session for its junior players last Thursday night. Inglewood and District Community Bank’s Andrew Nevins told players of the bank’s driver education program and Sgt Sean Dixon spoke on the importance of learning driving skills and also urged the teenagers to gain experience on country roads, bitumen and gravel, before gaining their licence. Senior Constable Ben Manning (pictured top) chats with young footballers while (right) Senior Constable Dan McGregor, Giselle Noble, Addie Keats and Sgt Sean Dixon talk road safety. LH PHOTO

Evening service honours Vietnam veterans

VIETNAM Veterans’ Day will be marked with a commemoration service in Inglewood this month.

Members of the Inglewood and Bridgewater RSL sub-branch are organising the service for 6pm

on August 18 at the war memorial in Grant Street.

Vietnam Veterans’ Day falls on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. Almost 60,000 Australians served dur-

ing the 10 years of Australian involvement in the Vietnam War.

Members of the sub-branch last month held a service at Bridgewater Memorial Hall in honour of Korean War veterans.

Winter works

GOULBURN Murray Water has finished its winter works program that included major channel maintenance at Dingee. It said the the 2024 program was ambitious, with a huge swathe of work undertaken during the three-month period between irrigation seasons. Infrastructure delivery services general manager Warren Jose said the water corporation had finished what it set out to achieve. “It has been a great effort from our staff and our contractors throughout the winter to complete all the work we had planned,” he said.

Bushland petition

COMMUNITY demand has led to the extension of two petitions calling for the State Government to stop the expansion of National Parks in Victoria. Northern Victoria Region MP Gaelle Broad said more than 29,000 Victorians had now signed two e-petitions on the issue. “The massive number of signatures reflects widespread community concern over Labor’s proposal to seriously restrict access to our bushland,” Ms Broad said.

School parking

WEDDERBURN College has asked parents to park vehicles at the lower end of Chapel Street and designated section of Hospital Street following questions about parking for parents and visitors.

Historic gate could go

By CHRIS EARL

PLANS to remove memorial gates at Rheola Recreation Reserve have stirred community disquiet, The reserve committee wants to widen the main vehicle entrance to the reserve. Its plan would remove gates erected soon after World War Two to honour district pioneers.

A memorial plaque would be moved to a wall on the ticket box.

A Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action said: “DEECA is currently awaiting lodgement of plans by the Rheola Pioneers Memorial Park Reserve Committee Incorporated in order to consider their proposal to widen the main vehicle entrance to the reserve, which would involve relocation of the memorial gates.”

But Rheola Charity Carnival president Matt Catto has labelled plans to remove the historic entrance gates an insult.

“There is no reason to change the historic entrance or remove the plaque,” Mr Catto said.

“As a community, we’re really unsure where the idea came from. There’s no support from from the charity carnival committee or the hall committee.

“The entrance is iconic. It’s where thousands of people walk through every Easter Monday when our community hosts the biggest, oldest and longest-running event in the Loddon Shire.

“You can’t just wipe away history because someone wants to have a wider entrance. There are

already other places where larger vehicles are able to enter the reserve - that’s how vintage tractors arriving for the carnival’s tractor pull get into position.”

Mr Catto said local residents had expressed disappointment to the recreation reserve committee leaders.

“Our concerns have also been taken to DEECA. We want the reserve’s history retained, protected and continued to be celebrated,” Mr Catto said.

“The memorial gates are part of Rheola, the plaque on the gate pillar at the ground’s entrance recognises and honours those who

were among the district pioneers. Many of their extended families are still part of the community to this day.”

Mr Catto said no reasonable explanation had been given “for what can only be called an attack on our local history”.

“Honestly, many of us think replacement of the gates, knocking down the pillars and installing a wider cattle grid is a waste of time and money,” he said.

Mr Catto said residents would continue talks with the reserve committee leaders and DEECA.

“We hope they can see sense and reason and abandon the plan.”

IN BRIEF

Games’ snapper

DREW Chislett has his bags packed for Paris where he will be an official photographer for the Australian team at the Paralympic Games. It is the third time Drew, president of Pyramid Hill Progress Association and local farmer and businessman, has been the team’s official photographer, The Paralympics start on August 28.

Back

in the trees

CORELLAS have returned to Bridgewater this week. The birds had headed north for a fortnight where they had attacked early crops, according to farmers. However, on Monday thousands were back in the Loddon River gums already stripped of leaves and bark.

Annual survey

EAST Loddon P12 College has started its annual survey of parents. “The survey, offered by the Department of Education, is designed to assist schools in gaining an understanding of families’ perceptions of school climate, student behaviour, and student engagement,” said principal Steve Leed.

Field trip

LODDON Shire Council is receiving bookings for its Farmer’s Day Out on August 28. The event will include a

Matt Catto has concerns about removal of memoral gates opened after World War Two (top)

What’s next for VNI West?

Refining the route, environmental assessment and field surveys

Here’s a brief update on some key activities as we move into the next phase of planning, design and approvals for the VNI West transmission project.

Preferred easement announcement

Conversations with landholders, engineering studies and field surveys are part of the ongoing work to narrow down the VNI West draft corridor to a preferred easement 70-120 metres wide. We expect to have more detail to share soon with communications planned for September, subject to the EES process. We will do our best to make sure that landholders with property in the preferred easement are informed first, ahead of a public announcement.

Environment Effects Statement (EES) consultation

The regulatory EES assessment process is now underway, overseen by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP). We are working with DTP on the “draft scoping requirements”, a document that outlines the technical studies to be carried out on a range of matters as part of the project impact assessment. In coming months, the draft scoping requirements will be released by DTP for public comment, providing the community with the opportunity to provide feedback. We will communicate more details once the consultation timing is confirmed.

Access agreements with landholders

TCV continues to seek access to land in the corridor to carry out field surveys, which are important to inform project planning by providing us with a better understanding of the local environment. If we need to access private property, we will request consent from landholders. Any terms for access or farm rules will be set out in a formal land access agreement with the property owner. TCV follows strict biosecurity protocols including thorough boot, equipment and vehicle washdowns using disinfectant cleaner on entry and exit from properties.

Contact the TCV team

Freecall: 1800 824 221

Email: enquiries@transmissionvictoria.com.au

Website: transmissionvictoria.com.au

Greater connection call by challenger

MOLIAGUL businesswomen Charmain Sheppard has become the third challenger to emerge for October’s Loddon Shire election in Tarnagulla Ward.

Ms Sheppard wants council to listen and engage more with local communities.

She says one way to achieve better connection would be through rotating monthly council meetings around Loddon towns.

Meetings should also be held outside normal working hours to allow more people to sit in the gallery and observe council debates.

Ms Sheppard, who moved from Melbourne to Moliagul last August, said: “Though my journey began in Jamaica, for many years of my adult life I have called Australia home.

“Over the past year, I’ve made it my mission to listen to the voices of our community. I’ve engaged in deep conversations with council members and residents, conducted surveys, and knocked on doors across the ward.

“The message has been loud and clear: people want change! They’re tired of stagnant communities, lack of social opportunities for our youth, and the ever-present threat of droughts and bushfires.

“People are frustrated with endless committees and reports that lead nowhere. They’re done with empty promises. What they want is action - real, tangible action that brings our towns back to life, supports our farmers, and ensures the safety and prosperity of our families.”

Ms Sheppard, who has been a regular at Loddon Shire meetings in Wedderburn this year, said water buybacks now being opposed by Loddon Shire as a member of the Murray River Group of Councils had seen community thoughts divided “as there are disadvantages and advantages on both sides”.

“I would have to look at it (buybacks)

Charmain Sheppard

a lot closer before I decided and have to consider the negatives or positives for the public,” she said.

Ms Sheppard is campaigning on three key planks - Economic Revitalisation –Growth Without Burden, Environmental Stewardship – Protecting Our Natural Heritage and Emergency Preparedness – Ensuring Safety for All.

“Our community deserves a council that is proactive, not reactive,” she said on the need for better emergency responses.

Ms Sheppard has her vending machine and online businesses based at Moliagul. She also volunteers with Maryborough’s visitor information centre and Central Goldfields Art Gallery.

Tarnagulla Ward is currently held by Cr Linda Jungwirth who won the seat by a margin of 118 votes in 2020.

Laanecoorie’s Nick Angelo and Arnold’s Carly Noble have also announced they will stand in the ward.

Government walks in $30k to boost big Easter event

THE 2025 Australian Three-Day Orienteering carnival that will see 1000 people traversing courses in the Loddon Shire has been given a $30,000 State Government grant.

The Easter event has already spurred strong accommodation bookings in Inglewood, Bridgewater and Tarnagulla districts.

It will be the first time Victoria has hopsted the carnival since 2013.

Organisers have also predicted the carnival could attract overseas competitors and visitors to the Loddon Shire.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett said: “I am so excited that such a significant sporting event is coming to the Loddon Shire in 2025. It will bring almost 1,000 athletes to our beautiful region and be a huge boost for local tourism.”

“Victoria hasn’t hosted this major event since 2013 and what better place to have it than the Loddon Shire,” she said.

“The State Labor Government is supporting major events to not just be hosted in Melbourne, but also in our rural and regional communities across Victoria too. It’s a win for our local businesses and economy, who will benefit from a muchdeserved boost in visitation.”

Meanwhile, Wedderburn Golf Club this week was named a grant recipient in the latest round of the Federation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s strengthening rural communities program.

The club will receive $10,000 to upgrade toilets to meet disability standards to improve accessibility for all users, including older residents.

Grants totalling $730,000 were awarded to organisations across Australia with Victorian clubs sharing in $167,980.

FRRR’s Jill Karena said grants focused on small and vital projects that enhanced the vitality and liveability of country communities, and on disaster recovery.

Bradley waits on pumpkin paddle judgement

WORLD pumpkin paddling record hopeful Bradley Haw is anxiously waiting for a decision on whether his feat will be recognised in the Guinness Book of Records.

The Boort man spent three days on the Murray River over Easter steering his hollowed-out 352kg pumpkin from Torrumburry Weir to Thule Creek, near Ultima.

“It can take up to three months from submitting the final paperwork for a decision to be made,” Bradley said.

“We’re getting close to that time when we’ll know if the Easter pumpkin record is accepted. I’ve got the fingers crossed that the record will be held in Boort.”

The 67km trip eclipsed the previous record set in the United States last October by almost 4km.

Declining enrolment ends

68 years of education

ST PATRICK’S Primary School Pyramid Hill will close.

Declining enrolments at the school opened in 1956 as a memorial to the residents who were killed in World War Two triggered the decision by Catholic Education Sandhurst.

Parents and staff were told last Wednesday that doors will close for the last time when the school year ends in December.

The State Government, local MPs and Loddon Shire were also informed of the decision.

The school has a current enrolment of 12 students with most from Pyramid Hill’s Filipino community.

Education Minister Ben Carroll, in Wedderburn as the announcement was made, said his department would work with Catholic Education Australia to ensure families at St Patrick’s had access to the education they wanted, either in the Catholic or government systems.

Catholic Education Sandhurst executive director Kate Fogarty told parents the decision to close St Patrick’s had been difficult.

“I can assure you that this decision was not taken lightly by the CESL Board and was made after much deliberation and community consultation.

“Over many years the declining enrolment numbers have made it increasingly difficult for the school to remain operational,” Ms Fogarty said.

“Low demographic growth projections for the region have further undermined the viability of the school, and we believe that as difficult as it is, this is the best de-

cision for the Pyramid Hill community.”

Ms Fogarty said Catholic Education staff would support families in transition to their preferred school choice for 2025.

“The town is fortunate to have Pyramid Hill College which is a Foundation - 10 facility, and St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Cohuna is connected by a daily bus service should families choose to keep their children in the Catholic system.

“Similarly, the staff of St Patrick’s are being fully supported to

understand their career options, including identification of alternative employment opportunities within Sandhurst Catholic Schools.”

She said principal John O’Connor, who took up the role in 2022, and the staff had been “exceptional teachers and leaders for the children, and the St Patrick’s community more broadly.”

“I acknowledge the Sisters of St Joseph who established St Patrick’s School in 1956, and who served the community for 20 years before the first lay princi-

pal was appointed in 1977,” she said.

“There have also been a number of principals and parish priests who have contributed greatly to the school community.

“I understand that this news will be unsettling.

Over the past 68 years many people will have formed strong associations with St Patrick’s School, and we are committed to finding an appropriate way to honour and celebrate the history of the school later this year,” Ms Fogarty said.

It’s been a good school, says foundation student

TERRY Wood was in the cohort of 60 students when St Patrick’s school opened in 1956.

He had transferred from Mologa State School as a nine-year-old.

As news of the school’s closure filtered through Pyramid Hill last week, Terry reflected on the good education received by hundreds of local people over almost seven decades.

“It’s sad that there are no longer the enrolments to keep St Patrick’s open,” he said,

“The school has been a very good one and generations of local children have been taught by dedicated teachers.

“We’ll be sorry to see the end of an era in December but we can all look back with a lot of pride that we were part of a school that has contributed to providing a quality education and a big part of the community.

“That’s something worth celebrating,” he said.

No announcement has been made on future use of the school facilities.

Classrooms were built in eight weeks

BISHOP of Sandhurst the Rev. BD Stewart officially blessed and opened St Patrick’s school at the start of the 1956 school year.

The school’s history says it was established to cater for a growing number of Catholic children in the Pyramid Hill region and as a memorial to the residents of the region who gave their lives in World War Two.

“Hundreds of people were reported to have turned out for the opening of St Patrick’s school which was built in only eight weeks. At the time, St Patrick’s school was considered the most modern building in Pyramid Hill, and there was much pride from parishioners who contributed both financially and as volunteers to the building of the school,” the school records.

“The new school was designed to accommodate 100 students who would be educated through to proficiency standard; previously students had to travel to Kerang to continue schooling beyond primary level.

“When St Patrick’s school opened its doors in 1956 there were 60 enrolments and the students were taught in two classrooms by the Sisters of St Joseph, who were charged with the responsibility of educating the children.

“By 1966 enrolments at St Patrick’s had risen to 91 pupils including 18 students in form one and 10 enrolled in form two. To meet the growing enrolments two new brick classrooms were constructed along with a new staffroom facility and the first lay staff member was employed.”

St Patrick’s school ceased offering forms one and two (Years 7 and 8) in 1975, reverting to a primary school.

In 1976 the Sisters of St Joseph withdrew from St Patrick’s after two decades of service to the children and families of Pyramid Hill and district. In 1996 a new administration area and principals office was constructed, it was reported to be, ‘although a small school, equal to any in facilities and educational opportunities.’

On November 11, 2004 a Remembrance Garden was opened at St Patrick’s school by the federal member for Murray, Dr Sharman Stone.

Terry Wood

A drop in student numbers will see St Patrick’s Primary School close in December

Ian collects final honour

PYRAMID Hill Lions Club has honoured community service with its citizen of the year award for the last time.

Ian Bartels was presented with the award last week as club members thanked him for decades as a volunteer in the town.

President Tania Quinn said the club, chartered in 1969, had decided to disband at the end of the year.

“We’re down to just five active members and our activities, while continuing in recent years, have not been as great as we would have liked,” she said.

“Instead, we will be encouraging our few remaining members to continue contributing to the community as members of the progress association.

Tania said Ian had been a worthy final recipient of the club’s annual citizen of the year award.

The retired electrician has lived all his life in Pyramid Hill.

His nomination said: “Ian has volunteered his services and expertise in numerous ways over the years and is quietly going about his day attending to various jobs not looking for thanks or gratitude and often at his own expense ... just doing what he sees needs doing or responding promptly to needs.

““He is a model citizen and deserves recognition ... even though he would not seek to be in the limelight.”

Ian is a long-standing member of the St John’s Anglican Church parish, a life member of the golf club and was a member of the town’s former pipe band.

He kept the town clock running until its recent refurbishment and continues to mow and water the grounds of the former aged care home. He was a member of the former hospital board.

Ian’s family attended the Lions dinner to witness the presentation.

Street furniture permits

Applications for a permit to place items on the footpath or nature strip in front of business premises for the 2024/25 nancial year are now open. This includes advertising signs, ags, goods on display for sale and street furniture such as tables and chairs.

Application forms are being sent out to businesses soon and permits will be issued for the period ending 31 August 2025.

Council has listened to feedback from businesses and has made some changes to the permit fees and charges. This includes simplifying the fee for tables and chairs, with a single fee for each setting placed on the footpath and providing businesses with the ability to display up to two tear-drop type ags at no cost.

Council recognises that having a visible presence to passing tra c is important for the viability of our small businesses. We also need to make sure an accessible area is available for all of the competing uses that footpaths and public spaces receive.

We want to support a vibrant streetscape in our townships and believe the changes that have been made strike a good balance. Further information, including an online llable application form, is available by scanning the QR code or visiting Council’s website https://www. loddon.vic.gov.au/Our-Council/Forms-and-permitapplications/Application-for-a-Local-Law-permit

Payment of rates

Council will be sending out rate notices for the new rating year 2024/25 from mid-August onwards.

As a result of system upgrades, Council has updated reference numbers for all ratepayers.

Please check your reference number on the bottom of the notice prior to making any payment.

If you elect to pay by instalments, the rst one is due on the 30 September 2024. Reminder notices will be sent for the following three instalments. If you wish to elect for the full payment option, this is due on the 15 February 2025.

If you think you may not be able to pay by the due date and you believe you will have di culties paying either the rst instalment or in full, please contact Council’s rates o ce on (03) 5494 1200 as soon as possible.

Council has a number of options available to assist those facing genuine nancial hardship and would be happy to discuss these with you in a con dential manner.

For more information, scan the QR code or visit Council’s website https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/ For-residents/Your-home/Your-property-valuationand-rates/Payment-of-rates

Ian Bartels (second right) with daughter Sharon, wife Helen and son Glen after receiving the Lions Club award

Minister drops by to check school building works

EDUCATION Minister Ben Carroll had talks in Wedderburn last Wednesday on the P12 college’s $12.9 million upgrade.

Mr Carroll and Ripon MP Martha Haylett were briefed on the project expected to be finished within 12 months.

While the visit did not include an inspection of the project work site, Mr Carroll spoke at a special student assembly.

He highlighted the State Government’s commitment to stu-

dent wellbeing and health. Mr Carroll, who is also deputy premier, said support for schools was an investment in “our most important resource (students)”.

The visit was used by Mr Carroll and Ms Haylett to again promote Wedderburn College’s selection as the site of Loddon’s first child care centre which he said would bring future benefits and flexibility for parents.

Wedderburn families started their Keep Families Local cam-

paign in 2021. The Loddon Shire is a 100 per cent child care desert and advocates have said is stalling economic and population growth.

Mr Carroll said the Government was continuing to invest in schools and also school bus services.

Principal Danny Forrest, assistant principal Dean Lockhart and college council president Carolyn Stephenson joined Mr Carroll in the tour of the school.

Inspections give highway bridges safety clearance

THE integrity of two major Calder Highway bridges has been confirmed after inspections by the Department of Transport and Planning.

However, the department said follow-up checks will be made later this year on the Loddon River bridge at Bridgewater and the Bul-a-Bul Creek bridge 3km north.

A spokesperson said: “As part of our planned maintenance program, we regularly undertake inspections on roads and bridges across the state – this includes the Loddon River and Bul-a-Bul Creek bridges which were inspected in February.

“Assessments undertaken on the structures found no maintenance or repairs were required. Damaged signs were replaced on the Loddon River bridge in February 2024.

“Neither the Loddon River and Bul-a-Bul Creek bridges were damaged in the October

2022 weather events. There are more than 9000 individual structures spread across Victoria’s road network, including more than 3200 bridges, 2700 culverts, 1200 major sign structures and 1060 retaining walls.

“Each of these structures undergo inspections on a regular basis, with a range of tests applied to assess their durability, safety and the need for any urgent repairs.”

Meanwhile, department contractors have finished tests of bitumen near the Loddon River bridge.

“Pavement testing involves removing a small section of the road surface and its base to assess criteria including safety, performance and durability,” the department said.

“This testing helps us to determine what sort of vehicles can use this section of road, and plan for future works.”

Friends will launch colourful book

THE latest field guide of wildflowers in Kooyoora State Park will be launched today.

Production of the Friends of Kooyoora’s book Bush Colours has involved students from Tarnagulla Primary School who will be part of the launch.

Bush Colours has been funded through a Parks Victoria volunteering innovation grant.

The new field guide catalogues wildflowers of the district by colour.

Student artwork, including a seasonal colour wheel of Aboriginal seasons are featured in the book

if

about Coronavirus.

Principal Danny Forrest, Ripon MP Martha Haylett and Education Minister Ben Carroll pause for a quick chat with students on the minister’s visit last Wednesday. LH PHOTO

Forced mergers rejected

LOCAL partnerships and collaborations have been backed in a major overhaul of Victoria’s health system.

The State Government has ruled out forced mergers after the review was released last week.

Inglewood and Districts Health Service and Boort District Health will retain the local identity and begin work on new budgets after the Government said it would inject another $1.5 billion into the Victorian system,

Local health services see the new structure putting Inglewood and Boort in the larger Loddon Mallee health network with Bendigo as the major hospital as strengthening their existing partnerships.

BDH chief executive Donna Doyle said the health services review was a robust document.

“As a small health service, we can’t do things alone. Collaborations and partnerships can only make us stronger,” she said.

“The relationship between Inglewood and Boort is exceptional.”

Both services are already part of the Integrated Health Network Alliance addressing health system and workforce issues in the Buloke, Loddon and Gannawarra shires.

Collaboration between health services and professionals is seeing rural hubs established in Kerang, Quambatook, Pyramid Hill and Boort.

Inglewood service chief executive Dallas Coghill said: “We are is pleased to receive the health

service plan and remain within part of the Loddon Mallee Health Network.

“IDHS maintains that partnerships are essential in continued high quality care for our community and we will ensure that this partnership continues and strengthens the services we offer,” he said.

“IDHS will receive our finalised budget for the financial year within the month and further clarity will be provided.

“It is pleasing to know the direction that IDHS is heading as we continue to work collaboratively with our Loddon Mallee partners to provide the best outcomes for our community.”

The health service review made 27 recommendations. Only one was not accepted by the Government.

“The State Government will deliver a number of key reforms in response to these recommendations. It will not, however, accept the recommendation to forcibly amalgamate Victoria’s health

services. Forcing change risks being disruptive ... impacting patient care,” said Ripon MP Martha Haylett.

“Instead, health services will be supported to reduce non-clinical duplication and double-up, while at the same time promoting stronger partnerships between our hospitals.

“We will roll out a connected electronic medical record (EMR) System to all hospitals, which will provide seamless and more efficient care for patients. Right now, every hospital manages electronic records differently and some don’t even have an electronic medical record – they still rely on paper.

“Over 47 per cent of regional beds and 82 per cent of metro beds are currently covered by EMR, but we want to change that. From today, we will work towards standardising electronic medical records across Victoria.

“Every hospital will have access to an EMR and systems will be able to speak to each other so

Loddon Shire Council postal election My

council, my vote

Ballot packs will be mailed to voters enrolled in the Loddon Shire Council general election from Monday 7 October. Complete and return your ballot material ASAP. Ballot material must be in the mail or delivered to the election manager by 6 pm on Friday 25 October

If you will be away

If you will be away when ballot packs are mailed, or your address has changed since Wednesday 7 August, you can request for your ballot pack to be redirected by completing the online redirection form at vec.vic.gov.au/redirections, or call 131 832.

Requests for redirection must be received by 5 pm on Monday 9 September.

Large print and braille ballot papers

Large print or braille ballot papers are available for voters who are blind or have low vision – please register by 5 pm Tuesday 10 September. To register, call 03 8620 1314 during business hours.

Early votes

If you will be away during the voting period (7 – 25 October), you can go to your local election office to vote in person, from 10 am on Wednesday 18 September.

The Loddon Shire Council election office is at:

37 Peppercorn Way

Serpentine

that patient records travel with people no matter which hospital they visit.

“We will also establish Hospitals Victoria – as a new unit in the Department of Health focused on health service financial performance led by former Northern Health CEO, Siva Sivarajah. It will focus on financial performance, identifying where back-office functions can be consolidated, and the electronic medical record system roll out.”

However, Murray Plains MP and Nationals leader Peter Walsh signalled the Government could be using new health service networks to achieve amalgamations by stealth.

Boort and Inglewood will be part of the Loddon Mallee network.

Mr Walsh said: “Labor can call them networks or alliances, but it is still planning massive amalgamations

“We support local hospitals for local people, yet these mergers take management and key decision making away from locals,” Mr Walsh said.

“Decisions and cuts will be made from centralised hubs in big regional centres, in some instances a long way away from the actual local health service. Regional patients in some cases will have to travel hundreds of kilometres from where they live to where the services are delivered.”

Mr Walsh claimed local hospital boards would lose power, playing an advisory role only as key policies are set by central boards in large centres.

How to nominate as a candidate

To nominate as a candidate, you must:

• be an Australian citizen and enrolled on the voters roll for Loddon Shire Council AND

• be eligible to become a councillor should you be elected AND

• have completed the mandatory candidate training before lodging your nomination with the election manager.

To nominate, complete the nomination form and lodge it with the election manager together with the $250 nomination fee. Nomination forms can be lodged by appointment during business hours from Monday 9 September until 12 noon on Tuesday 17 September at the election office.

Visit vec.vic.gov.au for more information and to pre-complete your nomination form using the online Candidate Helper. The online Candidate Helper will be available from Tuesday 20 August.

If you use the online Candidate Helper, print your pre-completed form and make an appointment to lodge it with the election manager along with the nomination fee.

Call the election manager from Monday 9 September on 131 832 to make a nomination appointment.

Nominations close 12 noon Tuesday 17 September.

Review backs ‘local brand’ retention

WHILE the Government rejected the health service review recommendation to amalgamate hosdpitals, it did accept the call for keeping “the local brand”.

In its report, the review committee said: “We recognise health services are the bedrock of many communities, particularly in rural areas, with many people deeply committed to their longestablished local hospitals. These connections must be valued and strengthened. All individual health services will become part of a network, to improve the care that can be provided locally and strengthen workforce support.

“There must be continuing local leadership within each Network, informed by local community voices. In recognition of the importance health services have to communities, we recommend they all retain their individual identities and brands.

“Within each network, there will be clearer definitions of the roles and responsibilities of different types of health service site, ranging from very small sites to major tertiary hospitals, and women’s, children’s and specialist hospitals. These definitions will set out what types of care can safely be provided where, and what communities can reasonably expect. Clearer, more logical pathways will be established between different hospital sites, so that as patients’ care needs change, they receive timely and appropriate care in the right location.”

Candidate information session

6 pm Wednesday 4 September at Council Chambers, Peters Street, Wedderburn

Candidate information kits containing nomination forms and other electoral information will be available online and from the election manager.

State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au

Vote by post this October

Loddon health CEOs Dallas Coghill and Donna Doyle

Researchers contradict news access assertions

A THIRD of Australians accessed Facebook for news in the first six months of 2024, a new study reveals.

The finding contradicts Meta’s long-standing assertion that news content is a minor part of the Facebook experience for most Australian users.

Meta has previously used this claim to justify its decision to abandon commercial agreements with local publishers.

The implications of this are significant for the local journalism landscape, especially for the more than 230 newspapers who are part of Country Press Australia, the association representing the interests of regional and rural newspapers across the country, including the Loddon Herald.

The research emphasises the essential role that news media plays in Australia, particularly how regional newspapers contribute to offering balanced and precise news coverage.

More than 40 per cent of Australians cited news access as a key motivator for their daily social media activity, with this tendency more noticeable among Gen Z and millennials at 60 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively.

Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer said there were significant industry challenges ahead, and forecast potential closures of up to 50 member outlets as current agreements under the News Media Bargain-

ing Code with Meta near their expiration.

The study also found that while overall Facebook usage is waning, half of the Australians still turn to social media for news, with 25 per cent using it as their primary news source.

These findings starkly contradict Meta’s position that news is a minimal component of the content seen by Australians on its platforms, which Meta claimed represents less than three per cent of the total.

This study, initiated by News Corp and conducted by Dynata, refutes those statements.

This research release aligns with the media industry’s wait on the Federal Government’s decision regarding Meta’s obligations under the News Media Bargaining Code, which might compel Meta to negotiate compensation for content with news providers.

Meta has threatened to block Australian news content should these costs be enforced.

In an article published in The Australian on Monday, News Corp Australasia executive chairman Michael Miller expressed concerns over Meta’s threats to remove news content, potentially replacing it with less reliable sources. He also criticised Meta for its lack of accountability.

The study shows strong public support for social media responsibility, with 85 per cent of Australians agreeing that platforms should prevent the spread of false

or harmful information. Without trustworthy journalism, 66 per cent believe the societal impact would be negative, anticipating increases in misinformation and decreased media diversity.

Mr Miller highlighted the significant impact these findings have on public understanding and the obligations of large tech companies, criticising Meta for avoiding transparency.

This analysis of 2,500 Australians confirms the integral role of social media in their news consumption habits, countering Meta’s underestimations of news relevance on its platform, and exposing the misleading nature of its claims.

Mr Schreyer further highlighted the implications for democracy.

“Democracy in areas without local news is lost. Who is going to stand up to a council decision that doesn’t meet the pub test? Who is going to shine a light on issues when people don’t have a big enough voice to get their message out?

“The research underscores the vital role that regional newspapers play in providing accurate and diverse perspectives.

“As Australians show a growing dissatisfaction with Meta, the study reaffirms the importance of maintaining a strong and independent local press to ensure accountability and transparency within communities.”

Your feedback will help us plan Victoria’s future renewable energy infrastructure.

Visit us at a session near you: Kerang

Kerang Memorial Hall

4 Nolan St, Kerang

Tuesday 6 August, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Wednesday 7 August, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm Rochester Community House

43-45 Mackay St, Rochester

Wednesday 14 August, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Thursday 15 August, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

At sessions, we’ll be talking through:

• how we will develop the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan

• the study area, which will show parts of Victoria that we’ll investigate further, as we work with communities to find the best places to host future wind and solar generation.

• how community feedback will help refine the study area to proposed renewable energy zones.

If you can’t attend a session directly, feel free to have your say on the study area right now at: engage.vic.gov.au/VicGrid

Police strength boosted with two more officers

POLICE numbers have been increased at Inglewood with two new officers joining the ranks this month.

Leading Senior Constable Dave White and Senior Constable Nick Dereki have taken the number of officers at the station to six.

Senior Constable White, a member of Victoria Police for 23 years, had spent the last nine years at Castlemaine. Senior Constable Dereki has moved from Maryborough sta-

The

tion. He was also previously stationed at St Arnaud after switching to policing duties seven years ago after previously being a protective services officer.

Senior Constable Andrew Gibbs has transferred from Inglewood to Ararat after being promoted to sergeant.

Victoria Police last week said applicants for the vacant Pyramid Hill position were being interviewed with an appointment expected shortly.

Leading Senior Constable Dave White and Senior Constable Nick Dereki outside Inglewood police station. LH PHOTO

Michelle receives aged care award

MICHELLE Holland has been recognised as a standout colleague at Boort District Health.

She was presented with the Public Sector Residential Aged Care Leadership Committee’s Aged Care Employee Day awarded last week recognising exceptional contributions to the BDH team.

Director of nursing Mubarak Mohammed Meera Sahib said: “I am incredibly proud of Michelle’s achievement and celebrate her success as she has been selected as one of five winners across the entire state.

“Michelle exemplifies our organisational values of integrity, respect, inclusivity,

collaboration, and excellence in everything she does. She consistently prioritises the residents’ needs, ensuring the highest quality of care during her shifts.

“As a nurse in charge, Michelle supports her team members by demonstrating excellent attention to detail and providing guidance and mentorship to new staff. Her ability to remain supportive during stressful times is truly inspiring, reflecting our commitment to excellence.”

Mubarak said Michelle was a passionate advocate for our clients, ensuring their voices were heard and their needs met with integrity.

Magical experience coming for Book Week

SCHOOL students and their parents are preparing costumes for Book Week activities across the Loddon next week.

The Children’s Book Council of Australia celebrations this year have the theme Reading is Magic.

Tours EVERY WEDNESDAY 11am-1pm

Wedderburn College students will have a parade next Tuesday as part of a week that includes the Reading Olympics while Bridgewater Primary School will hold a special assembly next Wednesday for the dress-up parade.

The council has been promoting children’s literature since 1945 and will again select top new books to receive awards in 2024.

Aged care award recipient Michelle Holland

A Better Way for Our Waterways: It’s about safety. Conservation. And a better financial future.

Government data shows less than half of one percent of the population partake in recreational native bird hunting. So why are they permitted to do so, in so many tens of thousands of public waterways that authorities can’t estimate the number, let alone monitor them?

The risks to our wildlife, and the public, are unacceptable. And the impact to tourism in rural areas which need it most, is heartbreaking.

Australian Wildlife Society is extremely concerned with the impact of recreational hunting to not only the native birds being hunted, but the protected species caught in the crossfire.

Our fragile ecosystems are struggling enough with climate change.

Regional Victorians Opposed to Duck Shooting inc (RVOTDS) shares that concern. It’s about what we’re leaving to our grandchildren.

And as a voice for Victorians who are socially and economically disadvantaged by native bird hunting, we know there’s a better way. Tourism has contributed more to

Australia’s economy than agriculture, forestry and fishing combined.

The National Tourism Satellite Account 22/23, shows total tourism consumption grew 72% to $164.5 billion and employed 626,400 people. In Victoria, the two regions going for gold are Philip Island and the

Spa Country, but Victoria can offer so much more.

In the first year data was collected (2019), visitors who birdwatched in our country spent a whopping $3 billion. (Combined spend of international, domestic day and domestic overnight visitors)

From a domestic overnight perspective 1 , birdwatching spend grew 70% in just the two years to March 2024, to almost $400 million. Visits to a health spa were on par with that, while visits to farm gates fell 34% in a year, to $255 million.

Meanwhile, according to ATO data, the 10 lowest income earning postcodes 2 in Victoria included Loddon’s 3567, Campaspe’s 3583, and Gannawarra/ Buloke’s 3542.

The tragedy is these areas are blessed with native birdlife unique to our country. 3542 contains hidden treasures, namely lake Bael Bael and Koorangie Wildlife Reserve, home to Australia’s rarest native duck the Freckled Duck. And 3583 sits between the beautiful Lake Boga, and Lake Tutchewop, often blessed with our quirky unique threatened species the Blue-billed duck. Who knew, besides hunters? Independent studies show that most tourists avoid hunting areas. It’s time to ban guns at our waterways.

Victoria's public waterways should be safe havens for people and wildlife HUNTING & TOURISM DO NOT MIX

Ram sale season has ripper Terrick start

VICTORIA’S Merino ram sale season has started with a $10,000 top price at Terrick West stud on Friday.

Rob Coutts, of Ioness Stud, Lake Bolac, topped the sale with his bid on the 18.2 micron ram rated with a comfort factor of 99.6

The studmaster said he checked out the ram at last month’s Australian Sheep and Wool Show before making his first purchase from the McGauchie’s Prairie West stud in more than five years.

“He has a tremendous barrel and is beautifully square,” Mr Coutts said.

“I had been chasing a big plain body ram and this one is terrific. I came here with several in mind. While looking at them online, that’s not a definite tool - you need to actually see the sheep to appreciate all its attributes.”

Mr Coutts said the top price ram had good heritage, coming from a Wallaloo Park sire “and he should breed successfully”.

“He will play a massive role at our stud, a small stud of 5000 Merinos.”

Mr Coutts is among a growing number of graziers to have abandoned mulesing.

“Mulesing made no difference to fly strike or dag and I’ve found the wool cut and health of the sheep are better,” he said.

Second highest price was $8500 paid for the first of 84 rams that went under the hammer. The buyer was Wagga Regional Livestock, one of six bought by the Morleys.

Buyers for the Terrick West rams came from New South Wales and Tasmania along with Loddon farmers.

Mysia’s Chris Rothacker was a first-time purchaser picking up two rams while Pompapiel Pastoral again finished as the highest bidder on six rams.

The Carless brothers from Moliagul were top bidders on four rams as were the Langleys of Newbridge.

Terrick West principal Ross McGauchie was pleased with the top price, up $2000 on last year, and the sale average of $3188.46 that came in slightly up on 2023.

Mr McGauchie said the current market conditions had pointed to the possibility of lower averages.

“But the interest was there to start the sale season and we are happy with the result ... the first 20 rams offered in particular.”

Mr McGauchie said while it was disappointing 20 rams had been passed in at auction, there had been private sales after the hammer dropped on the 84th ram and another off-auction buyer who purchased a ram for $12,000.

He said there had also been a lesser depth of buyers this year following recent retirements of some farmers. “Overall though, it was a great start and compared very well to recent South Australia sales where clearances have been good but average prices down.

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

Elders’ Adam Millard and buyer Chris Rothacker Keith Brayshaw and David Cullen

Top price: Ross Milne, Steve Chalmers, Terrick West principal Ross McGauchie, Ioness classer John McGrath and Rob Coutts. LH PHOTO

Repeat treatment cuts strike cycle

EARLY treatment prevents propagation of fly numbers at the start of the season and reduces the prevelance of flystrike throughout the season.

Wheelhouse AGnVET’ Bridgewater is urging Loddon farmers to implement fly control management strategies.

“Strategic fly control is supported by rigorous field research and does work,” said manager Nick Hall.

“A following late season treatment reduces the number of larvae going into the soil to pupate and emerge next year, therefore reducing the fly population for the next fly season.

“Fly control does work, is manageable, and can be enhanced year on year on properties with correct management.”

Wheelhouse is the territory agent for Clik Extra that contains 30 per cent extra dicyclanil.

“Dicyclanil is an insect growth regulator, interrupting the blowfly life cycle and preventing them from emerging into damaging second stage maggots.

“If chemical treatment is applied to the sheep before the start of fly season, which starts once the soil temperature reaches above 15 degrees and the pupae emerge, sheep are essentially removed as potential hosts for the

propagation of the fly population when the first fly generation appears.

“In ideal conditions the blowfly lifecycle can be as fast as 12 days, of between 14 and 21 days in moderately warm conditions.

“Flies are not capable of moving long distances, so early treatment is key to slowing the local fly population. This can also be improved upon again if all sheep on property are treated, and if neighbours treat early also.”

Nick said Clik Extra protected against blowfly strike caused by dicyclanil susceptible blowflies (Lucilia Cuprina) for up to 29 weeks, making it the ideal strategic fly control partner.

SHEEP anD LaMBS

LAMB numbers increased to 13,145 head at Bendigo on Monday and quality also evened out on the very plain offering of a week ago, which meant buyers didn’t have to chase the best stock to the extreme price levels of the previous week.

The result was a softer trend of $5 to $20 as the market settled, and there was sales that still matched the levels of a week ago.

On the demand side not all export processors were active and the tone from the buying group was not as energetic.

This sale marked the first time multiple pens of new season lambs have appeared- agents drawing for about 1000 head.

The best heavy trades at an estimated 24kg to 27kg cwt sold from $212 to $250 to track from 900c to 950c/kg cwt on a modest skin value of $2 per pelt. But buyers quickly lowered bidding on any young trade lambs with less weight and finish at $155 to $185 and these pens started with an $8kg price tag.

There was light crossbred young lambs down to $134/head. A line of fresh young Merino lambs from the Riverina sold to a top of $145 to processors, the balance $89 to $119/head to restockers.

In the old season lambs a limited offering of export lambs over 30kg cwt sold from $239 to a top of $269/head.

The heavy crossbreds, 26-30kg, made $214 to $246, followed by the heavy trades at $186 to $220/

head. Medium trade lambs $170 to $204.

On a carcass basis the best quality old lambs were estimated between 800c to 850c/kg, while the plainer and mixed lots were mostly in the 720c to 780c/kg cwt range. Decent MK processing lambs $90 to $125 for most, out to $148 for top-end weights with shape.

Smallest and plainest light lambs $50 to $85/head. In the mutton run heavy sheep were dearer courtesy of competition between a couple of export processors, a line of extra large Merino wethers in a skin selling to $155; big crossbred ewes $124 to $140; and Merino ewes to $135/head. However leaner trade and light sheep were cheaper, and late in the auction there was plain ewes selling down at $20 to $50 in noticeable discount.

The majority of sheep sold in the range of $60 to $110/head.

SUCKERS

Gwarra Pastoral Cohuna (90) $239. WL & PJ Johnson Myola East (40) $230. HC & JL Buzza Tongala (61) $168.

CROSSBRED SUCKERS

Everdale Holdings Calivil (73) $250. John Conallin Deniliquin (35) $250. K & J Keating Woodvale (50) $218. Pouge & Jones Moama (9) $204.

SHORN LAMBS

BS & TJ Jackson Kinypanial (59) $194. Dakota Past P/L Macorna, (86) $184. A K Tuddenham Dingee (28) $186. F-S Gunther Pyramid Hill (61) $199.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

RK Payne King Island (35) $244. Pompapiel Pastoral Pompapiel (134) $269. L & M McPherson Ravenswood (123) $265. MV

ON SITE SUNDRY FARM CLEARING SALE

3631 Lalbert-Kerang Road, Lalbert VIC 3542

Sunday, 25th August 2024 - 10:30 AM

Property Sold (since 1939), Sundries, and Lots of Memorabilia - I & L Alexander

A comprehensive list of items including a 2250 John Deere tractor with FEL bucket and hay forks 3PL PTO, a major 12x6 sheep tandem trailer with loading ramp, an International CI600 tray truck with working hoist, a scarifier with 29 tyres, a Roesners spreader 850T with approximately 3.5 tons capacity, portable sheep yards and panels, a 64 row EC straddle seeder, an AC 7080 Allis Chalmers tractor with HYD PTO 3PL (Goer), a 2008 Nissan Patrol with 470k mileage rego no road worthy, Masey Ferg 33 Industrial 4x4 4 Cyl Perk Dies 4 speed auto, 2 meter bucket, no brakes, goes well, candy slide on camper 8' with fuel tank and attachments, a galvanized 150 diesel tank on wheels, a Ford Telstar 88 model without registration, a 5 unit lamb marking cradle, a battery-operated shearing handpiece, a Kerfab dozer blade stick rake suite JD, a 16H.P B+S auger 8"x38' mobile, a land plane with a 10-foot blade, a 120L boom spray for motorbike, a Selta spray mobile unit 12 volts, a pencil orger, a HYD crane for the back of a ute, a Honda SKVA generator 8Hp, a Lit Honda F/F pump yellow with suction hose, a Honda 4hp rotary tiller, polymaster water troughs, feed and water troughs, Elders sheep feeder, Thornton trailing sheep feeder, lamb feeders, sundry sheep items, assorted banksia fence panels, pine posts 160x180mm 2.1m (7 foot), Waratah ringlock strainer, new and used gates, new and used steel posts, new ringlock and barb, 2.1m (7 feet) concrete posts, weld mesh, assorted wire, wire cages, bird cages x4, Stromberg triple manifold, Holden rims and hubs, a red Holden block 186 bottom with 202 head, various tyres and rims, assorted grease guns, a Winegard caravan TV antenna, hay stack covers, a surveyor's automatic level and staff, poly pipe and fittings, 5m 150x70 recycle timber, corrugated iron, a 20' TV tower, lawn aerator, an old wagon with 4 steel rims (Hildyard roller bearing) “kilyard”, a cast iron tractor seats, a single furrow horse plough, Pettity & HM Sunshine gates, lots of old cast iron items, an 1800 x 900 sign for local depot (Vacuum Oil Co), an old fuel bowser, insulators, cream cans, wedges, wheels, cogs and pulleys, an antique cast iron cot, push bikes, beds, a soft drink bottle, old radios, UHP, Tonka toys, old jacks, oil pots, dip tins, assorted spanners, wrenches, garden art wagon, and many other items not mentioned.

APPLICABLE . ID REQUIRED . TERMS: CASH, 5%

FEATURES | OPINION AND QUIZ

Abstain vote only a veil to water fight objection

Sir, I refer to your article “Council pair refuse to back water fight” (Loddon Herald Thursday July 25).

This article took my interest, as overwhelmingly the Councils of the Murray River Group of Councils voted to endorse the groups push to maintain its opposition to open tender voluntary buybacks; yet two Loddon Shire Councillors “abstained” from the vote.

Under the Local Government Act 2020 - Section 61 Council meetings (e) for the purpose of determining the result of a vote, a Councillor present at the meeting who does not vote is to be taken to have voted against the question.

Just to refresh readers (and maybe the two Councillors concerned); the role of a councillor (under the act) is:

(a) to participate in the decision making of the Council; and

(b) to represent the interests of the municipal community in that decision making; and

(c) to contribute to the strategic direction of the Council through the development and review of key strategic documents of the Council, including the council plan .

Both councillors provided very feeble reasons for abstaining - Cr Jungwirth stating “I am not an expert in this area” and Cr Murphy stating she did not have enough information.

I doubt any councillor in the entire group is an expert in the area and I would assume councillors are privy to the same amount of information to inform their decisions.

By abstaining, and not declaring their opposition, I would suggest they have tried to veil their outright objections to the proposal - which is most likely not in the interest of the municipalities they represent, but in the interest of state governmnet agendas.

MikiWilson Serpentine

Ditch wokeness for delivery services that matter

Sir, As Victoria’s October council elections approach, it’s time to re-focus and take note of the true purpose of local government.

Voters will choose representatives who for coming years will be responsible for our local essential services: maintaining roads, managing public spaces, enforcing by-laws, handling planning issues, and ensuring timely rubbish collection.

However, many councils have strayed way beyond what we expect of our local government, prioritising social wokeness and international politics over delivering key services for local residents.

We need a return to basics.

Councils aren’t platforms for foreign policy or lifestyle dictation; they’re service-oriented entities that should focus on your community needs.

To prospective councillors who understand this: your communities need you.

Voters must critically evaluate candidates.

Are they committed to roads, rates, and rubbish, or woke social commentary?

In these challenging cost-of-living times, we can’t afford local councillors throwing away valuable ratepayers dollars prioritising woke ideology over practical service.

A recent example highlighting the shift away

lEttERS tO thE EDItOR

from social policies in favour of core services comes from John Deere.

The company announced it will be removing nearly all its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in favour of a quality-based workplace.

It’s time to elect councillors to do the same.

We need efficient governance and essential services and to move away from woke politics at the local level.

Victoria needs representatives focused on strong community outcomes, not social activism.

PeterWalsh LeaderoftheNationals

Basin plan ‘avoids certain key facts’

Sir, it is concerning that the debate around the Murray Basin Plan still continues to avoid certain key facts.

Firstly, the plan is based on the fraudulent science that the Coorong is naturally a freshwater system fed by the Murray. This is a lie. The Coorong and the South Australian Lower Lakes were originally a saltwater estuary prior to the construction of the barrages. No amount of government and academic cover-ups can change this historical fact.

Secondly, the Basin Plan is doing horrific damage to the river, such as the massive riverbank erosion caused by pushing massively unnatural volumes of water down the river. The Murray River already has too much water.

Thirdly, the plan came about as a result of a Ramsar Convention treaty with the United Nations. It is UN/World Economic Forum foreign policy. It is part of a deliberate attack on our nations food supply. That is the intent. “The environment” is just being exploited for this objective. The politicians and bureaucrats responsible should be on trial for treason. There is nothing good about the plan. The Murray River Group of Councils and others are doing the community a massive disservice by pandering to green ideology and refusing to call out the deliberate fraud of this plan. We need strong, clear leadership if we are to survive this.

The plan, along with the Commonwealth Water Act (2007) must be repealed and criminal investigations must occur to ensure that those responsible are bought to justice. Those who continue to push weak, vague or green rubbish should be ignored by the community so as they can fade into irrelevance and stop distracting from the true message.

NickMarlow Yarrawalla

WHAT’SYOURVIEW?

The Loddon Herald welcomes letters to the editor. Preference will be given to letters of 300 words or less. All letters must include (for verification prior to publication) the writer’s name, address and contact phone number. The Loddon Herald reserve the right to edit letters for legal or space reasons. Send your letter to loddonherald@gmail.com

20 QUESTION QUIZ

1. True or false – There are less than fifty sovereign countries in Africa.

2. W is the chemical symbol of which element?

3. Voodooism is practiced mostly in which Caribbean nation?

4. In which year did Cyclone Tracy occur?

5. Peladophobia is the fear of what?

6. If an animal is a ruminant, what sort of diet does it have?

7. What is the national flower of Australia?

8. Which animal is on the logo of car manufacturer Peugeot?

9. The phrase “star-crossed lovers” was coined by which playwright?

10. ‘Persuasion’ was the last novel written by which author?

11. What is the combined point value of the Q and Z tiles in Scrabble?

12. Which side is the bite on the Apple company logo?

13. In a non-leap year, what date is the middle of the year?

14. Who is the archenemy of Bugs Bunny?

15. Ichthyology is the scientific study of what?

16. Which fruit is considered to be bad luck on board a boat?

17. The Wiener schnitzel’s name is taken from which city?

18. The flowers of a gardenia are usually which colour?

19. What is the name of the dog is the comic strip ‘Footrot Flats’?

20. And what breed is that dog?

ANSWERS

HAD the abacus out after being “told” that the Paris Olympics were Australia’s best-ever games. Really? Well in 1956, there were 151 medal events, Australia won 13 goldabout 8.5 per cent of the available haul. Paris has 329 events, Australia has won 18 gold or 5.5 per cent. Guess it all depends on your perspective but nonetheless well done to every competitor.

HOW to collect the footy gate raffle prize? If no willing helpers to walk the box several hundred metres, just hop in the car, drive down and collect, place on bonnet and return to your spot on the boundary. True story from the weekend.

RAFFLES have been plentiful the last few weeks. Prizes generously donated by local businesses suitably arranged on tables at all the golf tournaments. Guess if you can’t hit a nearest the pin, there’s always the raffle. Or at Pyramid Hill, there’s the prize for landing your ball closest to Fred’s

Tree. Sadly, some overshot the mark big time at the weekend.

OTF this week would be incomplete without reference to Wedderburn’s Danny “No Banner” Benaim who played his 350th senior game last Saturday. While Jaws had a special gazebo for the fan club, there was boundary banter about the absence of a celebratory banner. “That’s coming for the 400th,” a so-called mate said in reference to Benaim’s longevity

WHILE football club post-training dinners have become more lavish over the years. Inglewood was back to basics last Thursday. It was the good old pie night for junior footballers and netballers, topped with lots of sauce.

Fear of hair loss, bald

herbivorous diet

Golden Wattle 8. Lion 9. William Shakespeare 10. Jane Austen 11. Twenty 12. Right 13. July 2nd

Elmer Fudd

Fish

Banana

Vienna

White

Dog

Border Collie.

bUShy tAlES by IAN jONES

Councils

LEFT TO CARRY THE CAN

ONCE a week, there’s a truck travelling through town areas of the Loddon Shire ... collecting rubbish from a couple of bins.

The cost of collection is a cost to the ratepayer. An annual waste charge tacked on to rates, not subject to any cap on price increases.

Two bins were needed to separate recyclables from other rubbish, so government decreed years ago.

Last week, the Victorian Government dropped a proposal for consultation that would see every one of the state’s 79 local government areas forced to double the number of rubbish bins put out for collection.

There’d be normal rubbish, recycled material, a separate one for glass and another for organic waste.

Was something of a cost-shifting trifecta last week with a Coalition claim that local councils were being slugged a $2 fee to record infant immunisations and revelations at a Parliamentary inquiry that councils were being short-changed on kindergarten funding.

Proposals and actions from the same government that has forced library services to be restructured. Service remains the same, just a different structure that in the Goldfields, leaves Loddon Shire to absorb more than $178,000 to make the dictated change.

Roadside weed management grants to councils, including Loddon went unchanged for more than a decade.

Extra costs, more responsibilities but less real and actual funding for councils. The one-size-fits-all approach to government policy is playing out with greater rapidity, matched by declines in council satisfaction ratings across rural and regional Victoria.

In the Loddon Shire, the last survey

YOUR ONLINE WORDS

2024

LODDON SHIRE COUNCIL ELECTIONS

Peter Bell wrote: With all these people throwing their hat into the ring, I just hope that they realise how time consuming the job would be. Even when you fight for your ward, then you have to fight to get it through the Shire power’s. It is good that people are willing to put themselves forward but your family need to back you 100 per cent. Best of

By CHRIS EARL

said: “Loddon Shire Council’s overall performance has declined year on year since 2021. This follows the pattern State-wide. Council’s overall performance is at its lowest level since 2015. Ratings in the majority of individual service areas are in line with the previous year’s results, with significant declines in perceptions evident in four areas, including some of council’s lowest rated service areas. Ratings for council’s top performing service areas (the appearance of public areas and waste management) remain consistently high over time.

“Efforts are specifically needed in the area of sealed local roads and unsealed road maintenance. These are among council’s lowest rated service areas and performance ratings have declined significantly over multiple consecutive years. Ratings are now at the lowest levels since the peak ratings achieved in 2016.”

Roads! But as Mayor Gavan Holt pointed out earlier this year, there may be, probably is, confusion about who is responsible for a certain road.

Country councils hit by floods have a double whammy to overcome in securing sufficient funds to maintain roads.

The big roads - think the Calder and Loddon Valley Highways - are the responsibility of government, not council. Planned duplication of the Calder at Derby was slated to be completed four years ago (the sign is still on the highway verge) but not a sod has been turned. And the Loddon Valley Highway? There are many sections that make being behind the wheel of a dodgem car easier than dodging potholes.

In our neighbouring City of Greater Bendigo, where there are already three rub-

luck to all the candidate’s the country towns certainly need somebody on their side, promoting and working to get the tourism dollars flowing through the regions, better roads, and support for the smaller businesses trying to survive, without all the burdens placed upon them by council regulations.

Charles Woodman wrote: I’ve seen several businesses closed down because of regulations placed on them, in some cases up to $50.000 must be spent to stay open. Most small businesses do not make that sort of money and just close their doors and walk away. Work with the business, not against them, ease up on the rules, or help them financially to stay open. No wonder so many small towns are struggling to be viable when this happens.

bish bins, the satisfaction survey released last week did not paint a good picture.

“Bendigo City Council should focus on improving performance in the area of waste management. Council experienced the largest decline (by nine index points) in ratings in this area in the past year. The decline was largest in Bendigo City however, while ratings remained consistent with 2023 in Rural Bendigo. Rural Bendigo residents tend to however rate council lower on all other measures, including overall performance, suggesting waste management is not the highest priority service area in this part of council,” came the assessment.

local governments’ ability to deliver core services and the effects of cost shifting from state and federal governments to local council. Federally, the focus is one the sustainability of local government.

A large municipality with three bins already struggling to get the nod on rubbish.

The State Government says separation of household waste and recycling into the four material streams “helps reduce contamination. It increases the volume and quality of materials we can recover for recycling and reuse and allows us to get the most value from our resources”.

“We are working closely with councils ... to support the transition to the new system We are providing funding and assisting with planning and implementation processes, roll-out of new bins, delivery of critical infrastructure, and drop-off point upgrades.”

Sounds good to Melbourne-based idealogues wanting to impose their view of the world on country people.

But who pays? The people. When it fails, who will cop the blame? The council, not government.

Proposals and actions that place an increased burden on local government are coming at an interesting time. There is a Victorian Parliament inquiry assessing

The State Government has also stepped in with the appointment of administrators for several in Melbourne, but also country Victoria councils, without councillors while administrators do the jobs. And there are even more with a municipal monitor in place, Buloke being one, Horsham this week getting a monitor for a second time.

Local government is the form of democracy closest to the people, where decisions are made for the economic wellbeing of local people.

For that reason, they can be a convenient magnet for criticism. Sometimes it may be just and correct. On other occasions, the hands of local councils, increasingly tied by government bureaucracy and “uniform” regulations, have been tied.

From schemes talking about more rubbish bins (and that means more trucks on the road more often) in rural communities to the battle for adequate road and bridge funding, government over the years has blurred the moral and financial responsibilities of councils.

That may suit governments, to have belief that shortcomings and failures are the fault of everyone else.

But whether rubbish, roads or other services, inadequate funding may be leaving councils to carry the can.

There has been a flock of them in Inglewood too on the oval and golf course.

Michelle Mead wrote: Victoria Talbot what an archaic suggestion. Surely a more intelligent solution can be sought?

Mark Davey wrote: Corellas, roos, and crocs. We need a good clean up.

Brett Simpson wrote: Steve Jefferies, so that’s the only source of food in the area is it? If that’s the case why doesn’t Dunolly and Elmore grain sites have this issue?

LODDON RIVER CORELLAS

Glynn Jarrett wrote: As humans, with compassion and a conscience, we must stop killing, but learn instead to co-exist with wildlife. Culling is cruel, unnecessary and has never worked in the past.

Victoria Talbot wrote: They need culling. They destroy the trees and then move onto any grassy patches pulling it up.

Adam Veitch wrote: Why mess with nature. Camp at Bridgewater all the time. Love listening to them. The floods will kill the trees before the corellas.

Salli Dearricott wrote: It’s the grain storage that’s attracting them. No amount of culling will solve that problem.

Brett Simpson wrote: How is the grain storage attracting them?

Steve Jefferies wrote: Brett Simpson, smell of food.

Jill Hobbs wrote: Brett Simpson …cos other towns don’t have an abundance of trees to nest in, roost in, chew at as well as water. These birds are environmental vandals.

Glynn Jarrett wrote: Jill Hobbs, This is their home, humans are the environmental vandals!

Elizabeth Rewiti wrote: The trees have been through two big floods now too.

Matthew Mizzi wrote: #saveourcorellas

Karren Chuter wrote: They have to eat too, some people have nothing better to do in their life.

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER

BRIDGEWATER

CHARLTON

DINGEE

FOUR

INGLEWOOD

ARNOLD PUBLIC HALL COMMITTEE Inc.

Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING

to be held at the Arnold Public Hall on 27th of August, 2024 commencing at 7.00pm. The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the (Arnold Public Hall) for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 23rd October, 2024. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Kaye Graham on 0427387359.

WANTED TO BUY

WANTED TO BUY

Old bottles with town or company names.

Stewart, Gibson win top stableford competition

PYRAMID Hill’s annual golf tournament was held last week on a course in excellent condition and blessed with superb weather.

The club attracted 51 pairs on Friday, 36 players took part on Saturday, and 12 trios hit the course on Sunday.

The Jim Stewart Memorial Trophy in Friday’s 4BBB was taken out by Jed Stewart and Blake Gibson, who also won the B Grade prize. Jeff Herry and Dennis Hardie were A Grade winners on a countback ahead of Don Stewart and Steve Amos.

Dale Anderson and Noah Condliffe were runners up in B Grade. Non-handicap winners were Gavin James and Brad Eaton.

Saturday’s stroke day saw James Ritchie take out the W&H Schmidt trophy, while Ted Carmody won the Soufflet Cup on countback. Ritchie was the A Grade 27-hole scratch winner, while Steve Gibson won the handicap trophy. The 18-hole A Grade scratch winner was Justin Ryan, with Paul Carmody taking out the handicap event.

Nine-hole scratch winner in A Grade was Braydon O’Bree and Steve Amos was the handicap winner. Joan James took out the ladies 18-hole scratch event, with Maree Ring successful in the handicap.

The ambrose tournament on Sunday saw Dale Jager, Kelvin Free and Deanne Free win the Jan Burke Memorial Stroke event, with the handicap going to Meg Stewart, Jed Stewart and Don Stewart. Any Combination Stroke winners were Dave McNamara, Paul Robinson and Gary Valentine, and Any Combination Handicap winners were James Ritchie, Ron Ritchie and Ted Carmody.

Pyramid Hill will be conducting a junior clinic this year, run by Luke Roberts and other members of the club. No experience or equipment is necessary.

Boort

After having to cancel the last two competitions due to low numbers, it was great to see eight members play in the club’s first stableford event since early July.

Enjoying the warmer and firmer conditions, Scott Rollinson played very consistently all day to edge Stuart Tweddle by a point, 41 to 40, to claim victory. Andrew Kane’s 36 points saw him finish third.

In the nearest-the-pins, Kane and Peter Eicher each took home two prizes, with Rollinson and Dot Beattie picking up the rest. This week will involve a stroke round on Saturday, while a five-man team will travel to Wycheproof on Sunday to contest the annual shield event.

Mitiamo

The club had an excellent turn up for its Kevin McCarthy Memorial Shield day, with 28 pairs taking to the course.

The main prize was won by Phil Hamley and Roland Roberts with 44 points. Runners up were Trav Mancer and Harry Condliffe with 43 points.

In the non-handicap division, the winners were Eathan Hocking and Mick Draper with 41 points.

Nearest the pin on the 11th hole was won by Mancer, with Roland Roberts taking out the prize on the 16th. Nearest the pin with his second shot on the 15th was won by Brett Hay. Long drive on the third hole went to Condliffe.

Brad Eaton, Matt Scott, Gavin James and Justin Condely at the Pyramid Hill tournament. LH PHOTOS

Pyramid Hill club president Maree Ring and captain Jason Dellar

Mitiamo’s Barry Meighan and Paul Condliffe at Pyramid Hill on Friday

Brendan James tees off

Funcke, B. Harrison, J. Pearce, J. Donnellon. Charlton

GOALS - Charlton: J. McGrath

seniors

Calivil 3.0 5.0 10.0 11.1 (67)

Newbridge 1.4 5.8 9.11 12.15 (87)

GOALS - Calivil: B. Baker 4, R. Lourie 2, J. Maher, C. Thompson, S. Maher, D. Thompson, L. Stephens. Newbridge: C. Sanders 4, S. Gale 3, A. Fortune 2, T. McLeod, B. Dimech, T. Constable.

BEST - Calivil: J. Mulquiny, S. Green, S. Maher, J. Maher, R. Lourie, C. Thompson. Newbridge: B. Dimech, J. Teasdale, A. Padbury, B. Butler, W. Daly, K. Friswell. Mitiamo 1.1 2.1 5.2 5.2 (32) Bridgewater 4.4 14.6 16.7 23.11 (149)

GOALS - Mitiamo: A. Cussen 3, R. Duncan, B. Baines. Bridgewater: L. Sharp 14, J. Martyn 5, T. Estrada 2, L. Coghlan, N. Naughton.

BEST - Mitiamo: L. Lougoon, L. Shiell, D. Walters, K. Galvin, R. Duncan, A. Cussen. Bridgewater: J. Mayes, B. Alexander, L. Sharp, H. McKinley, H. Conway, J. Neylon.

Maiden Gully 1.1 2.3 3.4 3.4 (22)

BL Serpentine 9.2 14.10 21.15 30.17 (197)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: T. Pridgeon 2, D. Phyland. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: D. Nihill 7, J. Laird, J. Rippingale 5, R. Turner 3, J. Addlem, J. Podosky 2, C. Tuohey, J. Bailey, C. Draper, J. Murley, D. McKay, A. Gladman.

BEST - Maiden Gully: E. Crisp, D. Phyland, L. Sobina, T. Pridgeon, J. Worsley, M. Whitham. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: D. Nihill, R. Turner, J. Laird, J. Addlem, T. Miles, R. Prendergast.

Pyramid Hill 7.3 14.4 22.8 26.13 (169)

Inglewood 2.0 3.2 4.3 5.4 (34)

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: B. Dickens 5, B. Scott 4, Z. Alford, J. Cowling, D. Hemphill 3, M. Dundon, B. Carroll, B. Knight 2, B. George, S. Relouw. Inglewood: J. Nevins 2, T. Kilcullen, D. Hogan, L. Ford.

BEST - Pyramid Hill: B. Knight, B. Carroll, D. Hemphill, Z. Alford, S. Relouw, B. George. Inglewood: L. Ford, G. Nevins, T. Kennedy, C. March, L. Matheson, D. Hogan.

UnDer 18

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: L. Stubbs 2, H. Goodes 1. Inglewood: T. Murphy 5, K. McClellan 4, W. Schepers, R. Smith 3, D. Gilbee 2, A. Lamprell, R. Aggenbachm, E. McCoy, H. Noble, B. Coffey, L. Hackett. BEST - Pyramid Hill: X. Emmerson, H. Goodes, B. Gibson, M. Caspani, J. Clough-Fidler, L. Stubbs. Inglewood: T. Murphy, E. McCoy, D. Gilbee, C. Hackett, K. McClellan, R. Aggenbach.

East Loddon

(26)

GOALS - East Loddon: B. Wagner 5, M. Hocking, F. Clymo 3, M. Hancock, L. James 2, L. Stephens, M. Green, P. Cunningham, A. Roulston. Bridgewater: J. Friswell, K. Hewett, S. Hewett .

BEST - East Loddon: M. Hocking, F. Clymo, N. Ramskill, M. Hancock, L. James. Bridgewater: H. Daldy, N. Howe, C. Orton, S. McMahon, D. Goddard, L. Lonsdale.

seniors

GOALS - Boort. Donald:

BEST - Boort: J. Baddeley-Kelly, J. Fitzpatrick, J. Byrne, N. McLaren, J. Smith, J. Keeble. Donald Seniors: L. Geddes, A. Browne, H. Geddes, R. Bath, J. Papalia, J. Potter.

Wycheproof N

Birchip Watchem

Calivil 2.2 4.3

Newbridge

(38)

GOALS - Calivil: B. Masson 2, D. Dennis, D. Howard, D. Ryan, K. Newton, H. McGregor. Newbridge: D. Whan 2, T. Leggett, J. Lloyd, N. Gray.

BEST - Calivil: E. Ritchie, K. Newton, J. Manderson, T. Harcourt, S. Fawcett, D. Masson. Newbridge: C. Hoye, A. Moore, A. Knight, J. Lloyd, T. Wilson, B. Treacy.

Pyramid Hill 4.3 8.4 10.5 13.9 (87) Inglewood 1.0 3.1 4.1 5.1 (31)

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: M. Dingwall 10, A. McErvale, D. Lovell, G. Quinn. Inglewood: J. Stokes 2, J. Rouse, K. Dundas, T. Kendal.

BEST - Pyramid Hill: M. Dingwall, G. Quinn, T. Walker, N. Moon, D. Lovell, M. Moon. Inglewood: K. Wicks, D. Gorrie, T. Kendal, T. Beriman, J. Leach, S. Dundas.

Maiden Gully 0.1 1.3 1.4 2.4 (16)

BL Serpentine 3.4 6.5 8.5 14.6 (90)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: C. Sungalis, B. Barker. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: S. Gladman 4, C. Anstee 3, D. Boulton 2, M. Frecker, T. Clarke, Z. Hollis, J. Gladman, O. Amy.

BEST - Maiden Gully: S. Turner, B. Barker, K. Griffin, B. McCarthy, K. Henshaw, M. Clark. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: D. Tineo, M. Frecker, T. Clarke, Z. Hollis, C. O’Shannessy, H. Gadsden.

Mitiamo 1.1 2.1 2.1 4.1 (25) Bridgewater 2.4 7.6 13.10 19.14 (128)

GOALS - Mitiamo: B. Baines 3, H. Danziger. Bridgewater: N. Hall 6, R. Taylor, O. Muggleton, T. Hywood 2, J. Campbell, J. Naughton, H. Terry, M. Brooks, D. Maher, J. McKenzie, D. Farrelly.

BEST - Mitiamo: A. McKean, D. Cini, H. Danziger, K. Pentreath, A. Daley, L. Shiell. Bridgewater: J. Naughton, J. Campbell, A. McDowell, N. Hall, M. Brooks, T. Hywood.

15 14 1 0 2

(83)

T. Bates 3, J. Dean-Gilley, P. Sait. St Arnaud: J. Mckenny 4, F. Donald, H. Meagher, B. Burke, J. Neville.

BEST - Charlton: J. McGrath, B. Roberts, L. Holmes-Brown, P. Sait, H. Sait, C. Boyle. St Arnaud: S. Elliott, J. Mckenny, J. Neville, R. Burke, B. Knight, B. Burke.

(7)

(95)

GOALS - Wedderburn: S. Carroll. Nullawil: S. Goldsmith 4, B. Barker 3, S. Hogan, M. Poyner 2, J. Coghlan, D. Kelly. BEST - Wedderburn: F. Turnbull, R. Tonkin, A. Younghusband, C. Miller-Govett, M. Lockhart, M. Punguika. Nullawil: D. Kelly, S. Barker, B. Barker, J. Barry, S. Nicholls, B. Hogan. Wycheproof N

(68)

GOALS - Wycheproof Narraport: J. Coatsworth 3, Z. Cruse, T. Martin, J. Pardella 2, J. Turner, H. Connolly, R. Botheras, B. Brennan, S. Lewis. Birchip Watchem: R. Doran, J. Ryan, B. Baxter 2, D. Ferrier, H. Cook.

BEST - Wycheproof Narraport: J. Coatsworth, J. Turner, A. Hogan, H. Connolly, J. Pardella, T. Rumbold. Birchip Watchem: C. Wilson, B. Colbert, J. Woods, A. Noonan, C. Chase.

UnDer 17

- Wedderburn: T. Blair,

E. Thornbury. Nullawil: T. Vearing, L.

W. Gilchrist, T. Perry, C. Kelly, D. Coles.

- Boort: J. Potter, J. Bird, H. Malone, D.

C. Hird. Donald: E. Clapham, H. Clark, J. Lydom, J. Pareja.

(73)

(61)

GOALS - Wycheproof Narraport: C. Green, K. Hommelhoff, H. Senior 2, T. Trewin, J. Walsh, J. Grabowski, G. Turner. Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 7, S. Hogan, J. Lee.

BEST - Wycheproof Narraport: J. Grabowski, T. Trewin, K. Hommelhoff, R. Fawcett, M. Fawcett, N. Grabowski. Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards, N. Rippon, M. Buchanan, A. Dean, S. Hogan, J. Noonan.

Wedderburn

Nullawil 2.6

Gorrie.

(69)

(57)

GOALS - Wedderburn: T. Campbell, O. Holt, J. Miller 2, I. Holt, J. Hargreaves, N. Furlong. Nullawil: A. Thomson, J. Humphreys 2, M. Farmer, M. Wade, S. Kelly. BEST - Wedderburn: O. Holt, J. Miller, J. McEwen, J. Lockhart, T. Metherell, S. Lockhart. Nullawil: M. Wade, J. Humphreys, D. Watts, Z. Caccaviello, A. Oberdorfer, B. Forrester. Charlton

St Arnaud

(55)

(66)

GOALS - Charlton: H. Taylor 2, J. Taylor, K. Clifford, B. Sexton, S. Woods, B. Lanyon. St Arnaud: J. Needs, J. Kell 2, J. Hicks, T. Petrie, J. Hicks, S. Elliott, H. Durward, R. Lempa. BEST - Charlton: E. Fitzpatrick, B. Lanyon, S. Woods, J. Thompson, B. Dixon, P. Soulsby. St Arnaud Seniors: R. Lempa, T. Bertalli, D. Gifford, S. Male, B. Nicholas, S. Elliott. Birchip

UnDer 14

BEST - Wedderburn: B. Cunningham, O. Bird, B. Noordennen, A. Noordennen, W. Collins, L. Roberts. Nullawil: C. Kelly, S. Morrison, V. Harrison, M. Poyner, N. Harrison, B. Hogan.

BEST - Charlton: M. Fitzpatrick, S. Good, I. Roberts, C. Dixon, F. Zagame, M. Boyle. St Arnaud: N. Saludes, A. Reyne, P. Zsigmond, D. Kay, S. Greenaway, N. Ezard.

BEST - Wycheproof Narraport: A. McNaughton, K. Browne, M. Beattie. Birchip Watchem: S. Richmond, R. Ryan, J. Knights, A. Norton.

BEST - Boort: D. Perryman, T. Broad, M. Soumelidis, T. Bennett, M. Pink. Donald: H. Funcke, O. Brennan, J. Italia, L. Stopps.

Boort

GOALS - Boort: C. O’Rourke 5, S. Barraclough 3, C.

Keanelly 2, J. Bird, P. O’Rourke, N. Scott. Donald: W. Noble, J. Donnellon, G. Beckham.

BEST - Boort: C. Ross, J. Dowling, N. Scott, S. Barraclough, J. Bird, B. Herrington. Donald: C. Anderson, S. Pearse, J.

norTH CenTrAL

LoDDon VALLeY

Merger team has big say in finish

WEDDERBURN and Boort will play off in the second semi-final in North Central A Grade netball next month after their respective wins last Saturday sealed first and second place on the ladder.

The two Loddon Valley-based clubs will meet at Donald on August 31 to decide which goes directly into the grand final, to be played on the Redbacks’ home courts.

Charlton will finish third, but the last finals spot is still up for grabs. Birchip Watchem is fourth, but has the bye in the last round, setting up an intriguing battle.

Nulliwil, now fourth, will face Wycheproof Narraport, eighth – the team it will merge with next season to form Calder United.

An upset win for Wyche in its last game as a stand-alone club would prevent its future partner from playing in the finals, and mean Nullawil would also have played its last match as an independent entity.

Wycheproof’s 17-and-under side will represent the Demons in the finals despite losing to Birchip Watchem on the weekend.

They defeated Boort on Thursday night in the game postponed from round 14 in July. It was played after the league allowed the game to go ahead despite Wyche’s senior teams being made to forfeit after the club’s courts were declared unsuitable for play.

NORTH CENTRAL

A Grade

NCharlton 15, 25, 37, 57, (57) d St Arnaud 11, 20, 29, 39, (39). Boort 13, 31, 47, 52, (52) d Donald 10, 18, 25, 37, (37). Wycheproof Narraport 10, 15, 19, 22, (22) lost to Birchip Watchem 12, 31, 48, 61, (61). Wedderburn 9, 22, 38, 51, (51) d Nullawil 11, 16, 24, 28, (28).

Wedderburn 154.20 50

Boort 137.27 46

Charlton 128.27 40

Birchip Watchem 116.37 36

Nullawil 102.12 36

Sea Lake Nandaly 100.34 32

Donald 95.50 20

Wycheproof N 44.40 8

St Arnaud 65.46 4

B Grade

Charlton 10, 24, 40, 48, (48) d St Arnaud 4, 13, 17, 24, (24). Boort 12, 27, 34, 41, (41) lost to Donald 12, 22, 33, 46, (46). Wedderburn 11, 23, 32, 43, (43) d Nullawil 7, 16, 26, 35, (35). Wycheproof Narraport 2, 5, 6, 11, (11) lost to Birchip Watchem 20, 32, 49, 68, (68).

Wedderburn 198.53 60

Birchip Watchem 173.43 54

Nullawil 143.44 40

Donald 127.78 38

Boort 117.73 28

Sea Lake Nandaly 113.02 28

Charlton 67.38 16

St Arnaud 45.98 8

Wycheproof N 27.81 0

C Grade

Boort 20, 33, 41, 55, (55) d Donald 5, 13, 17, 26, (26). Charlton 4, 13, 20, 29, (29) lost to St Arnaud 18, 35, 43, 55, (55). Wedderburn 14, 23, 31, 37, (37) lost to Nullawil 11, 24, 31, 40, (40). Wycheproof Narraport 4, 9, 16, 25, (25) lost to Birchip Watchem 18, 28, 42, 52, (52).

Nullawil 195.93 52

Birchip Watchem 149.44 48

Boort 175.46 44

Sea Lake Nandaly 149.45 38

Wedderburn 135.54 38

St Arnaud 77.83 24

Donald 51.30 8

Charlton 45.98 8

Wycheproof N 38.35 8

NETBALL SCOREBOARDS

C Reserve

Wedderburn (17) lost to Nullawil (61). Wycheproof Narraport 5, 26, 36, 49, (49) d Birchip Watchem 7, 19, 36, 46, (46).

Sea Lake Nandaly 181.08 34

Nullawil 248.95 32

Wycheproof N 108.12 22

Birchip Watchem 82.29 20

Wedderburn 65.13 8

St Arnaud 47.37 0

17 & Under A

Boort 10, 23, 34, 44, (44) d Donald 10, 15, 23, 28, (28). Wedderburn 6, 7, 11, 22, (22) lost to Nullawil 14, 33, 48, 60, (60). Wycheproof Narraport 4, 10, 10, 13, (13) lost to Birchip Watchem 11, 18, 25, 36, (36). Charlton 7, 12, 19, 27, (27) lost to St Arnaud 9, 20, 30, 43, (43).

Birchip Watchem 296.89 64

Nullawil 276.47 52

St Arnaud 139.53 44

Wycheproof 101.83 36

Charlton 79.95 26

Sea Lake Nandaly 68.91 20

Boort 65.87 14

Wedderburn 51.84 8

Donald 48.93 8

14 & Under A

Minor thriller: Superoos tops

MITIAMO has secured the Loddon Valley netball A Grade minor premiership after a thrilling two-goal win over Bridgewater confirmed the Superoos would finish the home-and-away season on top.

The Mean Machine pushed their opponents all the way after trailing by eight goals at half-time, but never got closer than two goals before time ran out.

The narrow loss, and Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s 58-38 win over Maiden Gully, dropped Bridgewater to fifth, but victory on Saturday over strugglers Calivil will see the Mean Machine rise to fourth as the Bears have the final-round bye.

In any case, Bridgewater and Serp will face each other in the elimination final on August 25 at Pyramid Hill.

Newbridge will finish third on the ladder behind Mitiamo and Pyramid Hill after overcoming a brave Calivil side. The Demons, with only two wins for the season, were much better than the 62-38 final score suggested, pushing the Maroons particularly hard in the first half, when they trailed by only three goals.

Newbridge has a tough task against Mitiamo in the last round, but with neither side’s ladder position able to change, the match might not be played at 100 per cent intensity, with an aim to keep players fit and fresh for the finals.

Pyramid Hill tuned up for the play-offs with a powerful 52-15 win over bottom of

40

118.92 36 Marong 94.39 22 Maiden Gully 95.53 20 Calivil 54.68 8

Inglewood 41.70 0

B Grade

Mitiamo 9, 15, 28, 31, (31) lost to Bridgewater 11, 28, 39, 57, (57). Maiden Gully 11, 30, 38, 53, (53) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 14, 19, 23, 32, (32). Pyramid Hill 17, 27, 35, 47, (47) d Inglewood 4, 9, 12, 14, (14). Calivil 7, 11, 16, 24, (24) lost to Newbridge 9, 30, 51, 72, (72).

Newbridge 166.80 52

Marong 139.20 52

Pyramid Hill 140.47 48

Bridgewater 119.70 34

Pyramid Hill 16, 36, 54, 67, (67) d Inglewood 8, 18, 24, 29, (29).

Wycheproof Narraport 0, 1, 2, 2, (2) lost to Birchip Watchem 12, 21, 29, 32, (32). Charlton 3, 5, 8, 10, (10) lost to St Arnaud 9, 21, 30, 40, (40). Wedderburn 4, 6, 7, 7, (7) lost to Nullawil 13, 26, 37, 37, (37). Boort 5, 8, 14, 19, (19) lost to Donald 10, 17, 22, 25, (25). Donald 278.53 60

Maiden Gully 110.91 32

Mitiamo 90.59 24

BL Serpentine 74.96 18

Calivil 61.20 6

Inglewood 47.54 4

C Grade

Mitiamo 5, 18, 26, 34, (34) lost to Bridgewater 14, 25, 40, 50, (50). Calivil 7, 14, 22, 31, (31) lost to Newbridge 9, 20, 28, 40, (40). Pyramid Hill 11, 22, 36, 49, (49) d Inglewood 5, 14, 16, 19, (19). Maiden Gully 14, 24, 35, 42, (42) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 13, 18, 26, 35, (35).

Pyramid Hill 140.42 54

Newbridge 123.03 44

Bridgewater 121.00 40

Marong 114.98 40

Maiden Gully 100.34 30

BL Serpentine 100.77 24

Mitiamo 94.86 24

Inglewood 60.98 10 Calivil 66.81 0

A Grade Maiden Gully 10, 19, 30, 38, (38) lost to Bears Lagoon Serpentine 10, 23, 39, 53, (53). Calivil 11, 20, 29, 38, (38) lost to Newbridge 14, 23, 41, 62, (62). Mitiamo 14, 28, 39, 45, (45) d Bridgewater 12, 20, 33, 43, (43). Pyramid Hill 15, 25, 38, 52, (52) d Inglewood 4, 9, 10, 15, (15).

C Reserve Maiden Gully 13, 31, 48, 63, (63) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 7, 9, 14, 17, (17). Pyramid Hill 9, 20, 34, 46, (46) d Inglewood 13,

Nullawil’s Stephanie Cooper egdes out the Redbacks’ Igrid Gould in Saturday’s B Grade clash at Donaldson Park. LH PHOTO

GOALKICKING

Top four rival Nulli-fied: gritty Redbacks win

BETTER tackling and a stoic defence has seen Wedderburn gain the edge in a cut-throat battle to play North Central Football League finals.

It was the Redbacks who shrugged off the fleet-footed brigade of their fourth spot rival Nullawil for a 12-point victory at Donaldson Park in record holder

Danny Benaim’s 350th game.

Benaim’s dashes out of defence set up at least two of the crucial nine goals kicked by Wedderburn.

There could have been more majors had the Redbacks locked more of the play deep in their forward 50 instead of handing Nullawil easy options from goal square kickouts where the Maroons constantly had both back pockets sitting loose and ready to push into their attacking zone

Coach Tom Metherell, Benaim and Adam Postle stood tall with telling marks that frustrated Nullawil.

Oscar Holt put in another

By CHRIS EARL

pearly across the half-forward line and was rewarded with two goals. He roamed the length of the centre square and created options, easing the pressure on Tom Campbell who attracted two and three opponents but still managed to weave through packs.

Wedderburn had started kicking to the Charlton end and dominated play for much of the opening quarter. The first goal came in under a minute from the boot of Noah Furlong.

Jordan Hargreaves was sharing honours in the ruck with Dean Putt.

The danger man was Nullawil’s Matthew Wade. He set up a midterm goal by Adam Thompson and scored his own major a minute later when Nullawil grabbed the lead.

A late term goal from Oscar Holt and an errant behind from Campbell had Wedderburn be-

hind on the scoreboard at the first break but with momentum.

Wedderburn hit hard and early in the second quarter when Campbell had one of his two goals for the day within seconds of the bounce. Junior Miller was coming more into the game, equally as agile and happy to take on the bigger Nullawil players.

Wade, Caccaviello, Farmer and Putt were lynchpins for Nullawil in the term but the Maroons could only manage one goal - Sol Kelly 10 minutes in - as Wedderburn stretched the lead to 18 points at the main break.

The premiership quarter produced an intensity reflecting that for the loser, it could well be curtains for the season. Neither side scored a goal as play constantly zig-zagged up and down the ground. Metherell was leading by example in defence, Miller bobbing up around the wings and defenders from both sides intent on nullifying opponents.

Immediate energy came from

Wedderburn in the last quarter when Campbell broke free with a goal. Later in the term, Miller sneakily won the ball in a congested square and goaled.

The match sealer came around the 20-minute mark when Hargreaves snapped accurately.

Wade, Jordan Humphreys, Watts and Caccaviello didn’t throw in the towel as Nullawil battled out to the siren.

Oscar Holt finished off another stellar game to be best for Wedderburn.

Jackson McEwen, Joe Lockhart and Sam Lockhart were three other players who stood out in a Wedderburn performance that showed depth and commitment.

The hungry remains in the Donaldson Park outfit for a tilt at finals.

21 - (0) - Matthew Berry - Birchip Watchem

21 - (0) - Nathan Wight - Sea Lake Nandaly

WEDDERBURN senior game record holder Danny Benaim was cheered by family before and after his 350th game against Nullawil on Saturday.

Inglewood v Marong

Newbridge v Mitiamo

Pyramid Hill v Maiden Gully Bridgewater v Calivil

Bears Lagoon Serpentine bye

NORTH CENTRAL

Sea Lake Nandaly v Charlton

St Arnaud v Boort

Donald v Wedderburn

Nullawil v Wycheproof Narraport

Birchip Watchem bye

The five-time premiership player was hoisted on the shoulders of fellow 300-game club member Adam Postle and ruckman Jordy Hargreaves as the siren sounded at Donaldson Park.

Benaim is one of only three Redbacks to have played more than 300 senior games and still rates among the top echelon of players wearing the red and black. His achieved on Saturday was also applauded by opponents over the decades.

Come Saturday, all’s on line

WEDDERBURN’S finals chances are on the line in a thrilling last round of the North Central league on Saturday.

The Redbacks are fourth on the ladder, and play away at third-placed Donald, who are already destined for the first semi-final to be played at Birchip.

Win, and Wedderburn will finish the home and away season third. Lose, and they will miss the finals if Nullawil beats seventh-placed Wycheproof Narraport.

Adding spice to the situation is that Nullawil and Wyche will merge next season as Calder United.

Victory for the Redbacks will see them leapfrog Donald on percentage and means they will face the same opponents a week later in the sudden-death final.

Birchip Watchem is on top of the ladder, but with the final-round bye can only watch on as second-placed Sea Lake Nandaly plays winless Charlton.

The odds are stacked heavily in the Tigers’ favour, so they should take out the minor premiership ahead of the Bulls. Regardless of Sea Lake’s result against Charlton, Birchip Watchem will be battling them in the second semi-final at Donald.

Club functions tuned in ready for Feeny Medal count

VOTES will be counted for the North Central Football Legaue Feeny Medal on Saturday night.

The online live count will start with the under 17 competition as clubs hold functions for players and supporters watching the stream.

At Boort, there could be many cheers for Jhye Baddelly-Kelly, one of the Pies’ big recruits this season and

consistently in the best players.

While only winning a handful of games, Boort has lost as many by a kick or two in which Baddelly-Kelly may have caught the umpire’s eyes.

Tom Potter could also poll well in early games.

Wedderburn has multiple players consistently putting in performances to influence matches. Oscar Holt has

has had a starring second half of the season and should pick up votes along with coach Tom Metherell, games record holder Danny Benaim and and 2021 Feeny Medal winner Jordan Hargreaves. Sea Lake Nandaly and Birchip Watchem will also have players to watch in the count.

Wedderburn and Boort have the club best counts this weekend.

Wedderburn’s Noah Furlong ... among the goalkickers

The sealer ... Jordan Hargreaves

Gale blows chances of Demons

SOMETIMES a football match can turn on one moment — sometimes, a whole season can. So it was with Calivil when they faced Newbridge last Saturday with a possible finals berth on the line.

Just before half-time, Demon Tom Wakefield grabbed the ball on the outer wing and looked to go forward, with his side leading by two points, but he stopped dead when accidentally hit in the face by an opponent.

Clearly waiting for a free kick which didn’t come, Wakefield was dispossessed, and Newbridge rushed the ball into attack, where co-coach Sam Gale took a strong mark and goaled, giving the Maroons the lead for the first time.

From the subsequent bounce, Newbridge stormed forward again, and Gale swooped on a loose ball, ran into goal and put his side eight points in front.

Thereafter the game fluctuated, with Calivil’s remarkable

By GARY WALSH

accuracy keeping it in the match and the top-five hunt, but there was a strong sense that the game was now Newbridge’s to lose.

In the last quarter, which the Maroons entered five points ahead, 9.11 to 10.0, Newbridge’s greater physical strength overwhelmed the Demons, who ran out of legs to lose by 20 points, ending their finals hopes and virtually guaranteeing that the Maroons will finish fifth.

Strong-marking forward Brandon Dimech was one of the Maroons’ best, while Caleb Sanders’ four goals and Gale’s three proved critical in the absence of full-forward Chris Dixon. Speedy Calivil winger Rhys Lourie was clearly best afield in the first quarter and ran his heart out all day, Ben Baker kicked four goals, captain Sam Green was solid in

defence and Jacob Mulquiny was also among the best.

Newbridge only has to beat winless Mitiamo in the final round to finish fifth, but the top four teams are a world ahead of the rest in the Loddon Valley.

Top team Marong sat out the round, but second-placed Bears Lagoon Serpentine boosted its percentage with a 175-point win over Maiden Gully, with Doolan

Youthful injection sets stage in Pies’ greatest result of season

PLAY the kids. It’s a mantra adopted by footy fans everywhere when a side is struggling and there is a need for an injection of youth and enthusiasm.

Boort’s senior team is a perfect example of why the maxim can make sense.

The Magpies fielded six players aged 18 and under against Donald last Saturday and came away with a 71-point win in the side’s best performance for the season.

Coach Dale Cameron said it was a deliberate decision this year to look to the club’s youth for improvement. The under 17s side has lost only one game for the season and sits atop the ladder.

“You have got to have an eye on the future,” he said. And that future is bright.

Three 17-year-olds played against Donald: Lachlan Hall,

By GARY WALSH

Alex Chamberlain, and debutant Max Beattie. They were joined by 18-year-olds James Byrne, Tom Potter, and Frasier Holland.

Another six under 17 players are likely to push for senior spots next season.

The Magpies, in seventh spot on the ladder, stormed out of the blocks, led the third-placed Royal Blues 11.2 to 1.4 at half-time, and powered on to win 19.9 to 6.10.

Cameron was effusive in his praise of his young guns, in particular Hall: “He is going to be a special talent.” Hindered by hamstring issues, he has played the past three matches with the seniors and racked up more than 20 disposals against Donald.

“We needed to go through a season like this,” Cameron said.

The team would learn from its struggles on the field and the subsequent injection of youth adding a bit of hunger.

While the Magpies will miss the finals, it has been a what-couldhave-been season for Boort.

Two narrow losses to Nullawil by nine and six points, and a draw with Donald in their first clash highlighted the side’s competitiveness.

“You have to go through challenges,” Cameron said. “We’re not there yet, but we’re on the way.”

More than anything, he said, victory last week showed the importance of a football club to a country town, especially when it was facing challenging times.

“It was what the town and the community needed,” he said as the Pies prepare for the final match.

Nihill’s seven goals a standout among 12 goalkickers as the Bears continued to flourish without injured spearhead Josh Mellington.

Pyramid Hill beat a disappointing Inglewood by 135 points, with Ben Knight and Brodie Carroll best for the winners, while Lachlan Sharp roared back into form with 14 goals as Bridgewater swept aside Mitiamo by 117 points.

Pyramid Hill is all but certain to leapfrog Serp into second in the final round. The Bulldogs face Maiden Gully, while Serpentine has the bye, so percentage should see Pyramid Hill win the double chance.

SITE fees will be charged at peak rates the next couple of weeks at Riverside Oval after Newbridge booked their first appearance in a finals in eight years.

The happy camper Maroons have been the big improvers this season and. although challenged by Calivil last Saturday, are headed for finals action.

Calivil has one last chance to ruffle feathers when Ant Dennis coaches the Demons for the last time against Bridgewater.

Dennis has shown the Demons can match it with the top sides for a quarter or two.

This week, there may be enough juice in the tank to last three quarters.

The Mean Machine will need the Sharp shooter with the A game.

Depth and skill will be the real difference in what ooms as the closest match of the round.

Bridgewater by six or seven goals, may be closer. So after a few weeks of tipping the Demons and missing out on a perfect round, I’m going with the head this week.

Maiden Gully makes the trip up to Mitchell Park. To have any chance of getting within 10 or 15 goals of Pyramid Hill, the Eagles would need to take the first train and arrive at the ground a few hours before the 2.30pm kick off.

It’s been a hard season for Maiden Gully as reflected with a percentage not all that much

better than Mitiamo who face Newbridge on Saturday.

The Maroons now simply have too much to lose and will want to have good, solid preparation for the finals.

Mitiamo may have other ideas but will be outclassed. The Superoos have tried valiantly all season and expect them to finish a tough season with pride on show.

The final match features another club that has had a rough one. Inglewood will come up against the Marong juggernaut.

While there are a few clubs standing in the way of a Panthers’ hat-trick, Inglewood this year is not one of them.

There’ll be heaps of interest in the Molly Magoos where Inglewood has been the big improver of the reserves,.

One thing that Inglewood has achieved this season - a solid seconds side and some handy players who have been up in the ones at times.

Marong won’t have that match all its own way!

- GLENN CATTO

Newbridge’s Brandon Butler in tatters after a tough passage. lh photo

Loddon HERALD sport

Thursday AUGUST 15, 2024

GLORY RACER

WHEN Blackstone Glory broke the track record at Horsham Harness Racing Club last week, it was the first time Inglewood trainer Trevor Ralph had seen his five-year-old gelding win in person.

Last year, while Trevor and his wife Marie were on the road

By GARY WALSH

Downs region, watching the race on television and going crazy as Blackstone Glory trotted to victory, driven by Peter Sanderson.

Three committed local drinkers next to them joined in the cheering, and naturally were shouted a beer for their efforts.

cord lasted only 30 minutesmatched in the following event by My High Peak, trained by … Joanne Franklin.

Trevor was surprised but happy to share the record with a close friend, one who broke in Blackstone Glory as a two-yearold and has worked with him closely throughout his career.

and we kept on trying different things.

“A few times he didn’t even finish a race, he pulled, he started pacing when he was a trotter.”

Points show on ladder for Eagles

MAIDEN Gully has been credited with all four wins in its dismal Loddon Valley Football League season, according to the latest senior ladder published online Wednesday afternoon by the league.

The Eagles started the season 12 premiership points in arrears after league sanctions for not fielding an under 18 side for a third season. The Eagles were also fined $10,000 with half suspended for a year.

The Loddon Herald understands there had been legal talks since the decision on the eve of the 2024 season.

Wins in round one by 12 points over Calivil, three points over Mitiamo in round three and round 13’s 57-point point victory had only only squared the official ledger.

The next week’s one-point win over Inglewood had the Eagles in positive territory for the first time this year. However, while Maiden Gully now draws even with Inglewood on 16 premiership points, a poor percentage of 37.02 leaves the Eagles mired in eighth spot on the ladder. sitting above Mitiamo.

No statement has been issued by the league and Maiden Gully who were both contacted for comment.

Maiden Gully had tried to switch to the Heathcote league in 2022 and 2023 citing better pathways for its junior players.

Last week Trevor was trackside to see Blackstone Glory set a new Horsham record of two minutes and nine seconds over 1700 metres in the first race of

But the standalone re-

He described Blackstone Glory as “headstrong and full of himself” – Marie preferred “bold”.

Suffice to say, the gelding was a handful.

“He decided he wasn’t going to do things the right way,” Trevor said. “He was hard to drive,

Trevor decided it was time to go back to basics. It took a lot of patience and work with a farrier who fixed the horse’s feet and a “muscle man” who worked on his aches and pains for Blackstone Glory to become a winner.

He was running again at Bendigo last night in a higher-class race.

Trevor was holding his horses when it came to predicting success: “I don’t trust him yet.”

The Eagles last fielded an under 18 football team in 2021 but tried to field a team in the Bendigo Football League this season before AFL Central Victoria rejected the bid both by Maiden Gully seniors and then the junior club.

Meanwhile, Bendigo league club Maryborough’s search for a home in 2025 continues with both the Maryborough-Castlemaine and Central Highlands Leagues refusing to consider admitting the Pies.

Blackstone Glory back at the stables with trainer Trevor Ralph. LH PHOTO