Clear nights at the weekend showed Loddon skies in their Aurora Australis brilliance for the first time since 2003. Loddon Herald reader Sarah Beth in Serpentine was among avid amateur photographers capturing the moment that will not return to our night skies for another 20 years when Aurora Australis and borealis, caused by geomagnetic storms, put on their next show.
NEIL Beattie will bring his 20-year local council career to a close in October.
The Boort Ward councillor this week confirmed he would not seek-re-election to Loddon Shire.
The three-time mayor was first elected in 2005 and said increased bureaucracy had made the function of local government more difficult.
However, fellow veteran coun-
cillor and current mayor Gavan Holt said he was undecided on whether to seek a fifth full term.
Elected to fill a casual vacancy in 2003, Cr Holt said: “At this stage, I’m still to make up my mind one way or the other.”
And first-term councillor Wendy Murphy said she was also undecided. Cr Murphy was unsuccessful in a tilt for the mayor’s position last November.
Cr Beattie said: “There have
been lots of good things done, infrastructure projects we have got across the line.”
“But then there’s the flood levee bank project in Boort that was identified after the 2011 floods.
We identifed the problem but 12 or 13 years later we are extremely close but it is still not completed,” he said.
Cr Beattie said he would be leaving council with a strong team headed by CEO Lincoln
Fitzgerald and three directors. “Morale in the team is high and everyone is working together,” he said.
First-term councillor Dan Straub (Terrick Ward) said he would be a candidate at the council elections. Cr Linda Jungwirth (Tarnagulla Ward) announced in February that she would seek a second term.
CONTINUED PAGE 8
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Circulating in the communities and districts of Boort, Bridgewater, Dingee, Inglewood, Korong Vale, Mitiamo, Newbridge, Laanecoorie, Pyramid Hill, Serpentine, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn. Also available in Dunolly, Charlton, Wycheproof, Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat, Golden Square and Eaglehawk.
EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
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Partly cloudy
Boort Saturday 16, Sunday 17
Inglewood Saturday 16, Sunday 17
Pyramid Hill Saturday 16, Sunday 17
Wedderburn Saturday 16, Sunday 17
Dunolly Saturday 14, Sunday 16
SHANE Smith triggered a new gold rush to Wedderburn last week.
The New South Wales detectorist set up camp at the town’s caravan park for 10 days, sharing his secrets and taking modern day miners into bushland around the district.
They found plenty of old nails and bullets and then on the final day there was gold with the discovery of a 15.38 gram nugget.
Shane has been coming to Victoria since the 1990s and made Wedderburn one of his annual stops three years ago.
“A lot of detectorists don’t like giving away their secrets,” he said.
“There’s nothing to be scared about in giving out information .... there’s so much countryside around here and there’s gold to be found.”
Shane said he once spent much of his time searching for gold around Orange and Bathurst.
“The area was fairly accessible until the government started closing areas,” he said.
Shane says most gold found in the Loddon most had an 18-carat purity compared with New South Wales where it was nine carat and also contained a lot of copper.
His best nugget found in Victoria? “That was 13 ounces at Tarnagulla about five years ago.”
Shane’s daily sessions had dozens of gold enthusiasts camping at Wedderburn to gain tips to detecting gold in the rich bushland around the town.
“We’ve had a lot of fun this week and for one of the campers to find a nice nugget ... that was a great way to finish the latest visit here,” he said.
STALLHOLDERS from across Victoria and interstate have started arriving for this Saturday’s Wedderburn Historic Engine and Machinery Society swap meet. One of two major annual events organised by the society, members are expecting a good presence of stallholders and strong interest from collectors.
GOULBURN Murray Water is gearing up for its Winter works program which kicks after yesterday’s end to the irrigation season ends. The annual program will see GMW complete maintenance and refurbishment works on its delivery network outside of its water delivery obligations. The maintenance program will be finished in August.
BIRD Life area co-ordinator
Gary Cheers will lead a weekend camp at Kooyoora State Park this weekend discussing and finding the swift parrot species in the park, Kingower and Wehla Block.
OP-SHOP clothes will hit the catwalk when Newbridge branch of the Country Women’s Association holds its fashion parade next week. Clothes worn will come from the Dunolly Uniting Church Op-shop.
TRANSMISSION Company Victoria has put more money on the table to win over landholders opposing its controversial VNI West renewable energy transmission line project.
Farmers will now be offered $50,000 - up from $20,000 - if they grant land access.
But the new sweetener is unlikely to sway farmers between Stawell and Kerang.
Powlett’s Leigh Parry, who owns irrigation property near Boort, said” “They are getting desperate and want people to give them access to land.”
“The project is still more about bulldozing plans than anything,” Mr Parry said.
The massive jump in the access fee comes as TCV refines the troubled project’s path with technical and environmental surveys across the region, including northern Loddon districts, and the Sate Government has ordered an environmental effects statement on the project.
Northern Loddon farmers have told TCV concerns for agricultural activity if the transmission lines run through prime irrigation country.
TCV said on Monday that it had “actioned stakeholder feedback on land access agreement payments, increasing the payment to
landholders who provide larger areas for survey areas”.
“Landholders can discuss land access agreements for VNI West, which start at $10,000 to a maximum $50,000, with their dedicated landholder liaison officers.”
Spokesperson, Claire Cass, said the change reflected the project’s ongoing engagement with landholders who communicated the potential impost of survey access on their time.
“These payment changes acknowledge the administrative
and time impost for landholders with larger properties, when they are negotiating and providing survey access for their land,” she said.
“We are entering voluntary land access agreements with landholders across the ~2km VNI West draft corridor, outlining the terms and conditions for TCV to carry out field surveys on their land.
“The surveys are important to confirm the condition and environmental sensitivities of the
THE number of landholders in the VNI West corridor to grant access rights will remain a mystery,
TCV said it would not disclose how many of the more than 350 owners had signed up before Monday’s decision to more than double the access fee.
A spokesperson said: “TCV is having conversations with landholders across the draft corridor as we discuss the terms for accessing their land for field surveys.
“These agreements are voluntary and put landholders in control over how their property is accessed for survey activities, with a formal land access agreement covering their requirements such as any notice periods or biosecurity measures.
“Field surveys are required for TCV to confirm the condition and environmental sensitivities of the land and to help assess potential impacts of the project. This is im-
portant and supports the process underway to identify a preferred easement for the project.
“Working with TCV and landholder liaisons is the best way for a landholder to ensure they have control over property access and find the best outcomes for themselves and their properties in relation to the VNI West project.“
TCV also avoided a commitment to reviewing the $8000 a kilometre compensation offer for 20 years for land in the final transmission line corridor.
“TCV has not commenced discussions around compensation for the easement.
Once we have narrowed down the draft corridor to a preferred easement - expected to be by the end of September - we will commence conversations with landholders who are directly impacted where the preferred easement crosses their land.”
land, and to enable us to reduce potential impacts of the project to people and farming.
“Total payments per property will now increase where access to a larger area of land is provided.
“Land access payments now range from $10,000 to $50,000 per property. The change is retrospective, and landholders who have already entered a land access agreement may be eligible for additional payments dependent on the access area already agreed to.
“No landholders will receive less compensation because of this change. Our team of landholder liaisons championed this change, and they are the best point of contact for landholders to understand how these payments apply to them,” she said.
However, TCV says it will want to register a property bcaveat if the access payment is more than $30,000 “to ensure that any new property owners are notified about TCV’s interest in the property”.
“This caveat will not provide TCV with any additional rights outside of the agreed access and will expire at the end of the agreed access term. This caveat will only come into effect if the land changes hands,” according to Monday’s announcement.
WORK has started on the damaged Pyramid-Boort Road at Yarrawalla. The road is expected to be closed for up to three weeks. “We anticipate there will be complete road closures in place during these works and we’re working to reduce impacts on the local community and road users. We’ll update the community on any changes to traffic conditions,” said the Department of Transport and Planning.
COMMUNITY enterprise Rejoov Salon in Wedderburn on Tuesday celebrated its fifth anniversary. The salon was established as a community initiative when the town was without a hairdresser and hires out salon chairs to local hairdressers. A member of the enterprise, Robyn Vella, said the salon was returning money to the community with donations for school awards and other projects.
LANDCARE Victoria has expressed disappointment that despite playing a critical role tackling biodiversity loss and climate change, the State Budget provided no new funding for Landcare facilitators and regional coordinators. Inc. Chair Jane Carney said she felt let down by the lack of funding.
Every four years, Loddon Shire residents and ratepayers vote to elect five Councillors to represent our community for the 2024-2028 term. The last Loddon Shire Council election was held in October 2020.
The next council elections will be held by postal ballot in October 2024 and will be administered by the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC).
For information about the voting process and key dates, visit the VEC website https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/voting/types-of-elections/local-council-elections
Are you interested in becoming a Councillor in local government?
Do you want to understand the role of Councillor and how to represent your community best?
A Councillor’s role is exciting, diverse and demanding. As the governing body of a local municipality, councillors play a vital leadership role in creating and implementing their community’s vision, strategic direction and the values within which they operate.
Under the Local Government Act 2020 each Councillor has a responsibility to:
• participate in the decision-making of the council
• represent the local community in that decision-making
• contribute to the strategic direction of the council through the development and review of key strategic documents of the council, including the council plan
In performing their elected role, a Councillor must:
• consider the diversity of interests and needs of the local community
• observe principles of good governance and act with integrity
• provide civic leadership about the exercise of the various functions and responsibilities of the council under the LG Act and other Acts
• participate in the responsible allocation of resources of council through the annual budget
• facilitate effective communication between the council and the community.
If you are interested in becoming a local council candidate, you can access information and resources regarding nominations, eligibility, relevant training opportunities and more by scanning the QR code or visiting https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/candidates-and-parties/becominga-local-council-candidate
Voting
Enrolling to Vote
All voting in council elections is by post. VEC will send ballot packs to all enrolled voters for you to complete and send back.
In a Victorian local council election there are two types of voters:
• state-enrolled voters
• council-enrolled voters
State-enrolled voters
You must vote in the local election if you are on the state roll by 4pm on the day the roll closes. If you do not vote, you may be fined.
To find out if you are on the state roll, visit https://enrolment.vec.vic.gov.au/
Council-enrolled voters
Council-enrolled voters include ratepayers who are property owners, occupiers or corporations. If you are on the council roll, you must vote otherwise you may get a fine.
You can enrol to become a council-enrolled voter directly with Loddon Shire Council if you are:
• a property owner, occupier or represent a corporation. This includes Australian citizens who own a property in Loddon Shire but do not live in the area.
• are 18 years or older
• not a state-enrolled voter within the Loddon Shire Council area
For more information about enrolling for Council elections, visit the VEC website https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/voting/types-of-elections/local-council-elections
Upcoming candidate sessions
Standing for Council hosted by Victorian Local Governance Association
Friday 17 May 2024
12.00pm to 1.30pm Online session via Zoom Registrations are required.
Scan the QR code or visit https://www.vlga.org.au/%2Fcivicrm%2Fevent%2Finfo% 3Fid%3D504%26reset%3D1
Local Women Leading Change – hosted by the Victorian Local Governance Association
Friday 24 May 2024
12.00pm to 1.30pm Online session via Zoom
Scan the QR code or visit https://www.vlga.org.au /%2Fcivicrm%2Fevent%2Finfo%3Fid%3D505%26reset%3D1
Community and Candidate Information Session –hosted by the Municipal Association of Victoria. Wednesday 17 July 2024
50 View Street, Bendigo In-person check in 6.00pm – 6.30pm Session 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Scan the QR code or visit https://mavevents.cventevents.com/ event/2b17085d-a5b8-4472-82c1b38868e26d24/websitePage:4908a84c-9a5a42e1-9fc0-81de42960b35
Candidate nominations open Monday 9 September 2024 (to be confirmed)
Candidate nominations close Tuesday 17 September 2024 (to be confirmed)
Mail out of ballot packs
Monday 7 to Thursday 10 October 2024
VEC sends postal voting packs to enrolled voters.
Close of voting
6:00pm Friday 25 October 2024
Your ballot paper must be with the Returning Officer or in the mail by this time. Only votes posted before the close of voting can be accepted.
Election Day (No in person voting) Saturday 26 October 2024
PHOTOVOLTAIC solar modules
generating nearly 2000 times more power than traditional solar systems have come out winners after a decade of testing at Newbridge.
RayGen says its high efficiency, low-cost long-duration energy innovation using solar PV and thermal water-based energy storage systems is a world leader.
Founder and chief research officer John Lasich told the Loddon Herald generation capacity had tripled in the decade before last month’s State Government announcement of a $20 million investment in the company.
The company has its flagship solar and storage project near Mildura and is building a new construction facility in Hawthorn.
“We commissioned a single 250 kW PV Ultra tower at the Newbridge site. This was hot on the heels of RayGen setting a world record for solar system efficiency with the University of New South Wales, so it was a very exciting time for the company to see our technology come to life at Newbridge,” he said.
“Another two 250kW towers were commissioned in 2018 and they still operate today.”
He said the Newbridge site represented the first deployment of the company’s solar technology and showcased solar modules and solar operating software.
“The project has been providing electricity to local customers since 2015, as well as showcasing how well the plant is suited for dual land use with sheep grazing
in the field of mirrors,” he said.
“The project has provided a realworld, end to end testbed for key parts of RayGen’s core solar power generation technology over 10 years.
“Learnings from this project underpin the next generation of the RayGen product which includes integrated storage which is enabled by capturing the by-
product heat from our modules. A multi-megawatt scale demonstration has been built near Mildura.
Mr Lasich said Newbridge continued as an operating testbed with further research and development facilities now at the site.
Company CEO Richard Payne said: “We’re a Victorian-born company with global ambitions
RESCUE teams have been called to two road accidents on Loddon roads in the past week.
Two people escaped with minor injuries when their vehicle flipped and landed between two trees on the Calder Highway, near the Wedderburn Junction Road turnoff, last Thursday,
STATE Budget cuts to agriculture will see funding drop by almost $200 million in two years.
Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh said the $496.6 million announced last week did not even compare with the $687.3 million allocated in 2022-2023 – “and that was way too little even then”.
“Agriculture is the lifeblood of so much of regional and rural Victoria – government investment in this sector must be rising, not shrinking,” Mr Walsh said.
“Agriculture doesn’t just feed Victoria, it keeps regional Victoria afloat, it supports the many small and large towns scattered across the state, it drives innovation in food and fibre production, and it helps secure the long-term future of the state,” he says.
for dispatchable renewable energy generation and advanced manufacturing.”
Combined with their thermal water-based storage systemwhich uses heat captured from water that is used to cool the modules - RayGen has developed its energy storage solution that is
“The message from Spring Street is that it is more important Melbourne commuters can cut 10 or 15 minutes driving time on their way to work – at a cost of billions and billions of dollars.
“The logic is irrefutable –Victoria’s farmers supply all Victorians with the finest, freshest, and safest food in the world and without them we will be forced to rely on questionably unreliable imports.
The driver and a passenger were treated at the scene by paramedics and CERT team members. Korong Vale fire brigade also attended while police directed traffic for about 45 minutes.
A woman, aged in her 60s, was rescued after her vehicle hit a tree on the Fentons Creek-Gowar Road about 8.50am Monday morning after swerving to miss a kangaroo, police said.
Love our local!
The friendly pub open for meals every day with Friday happy hour, trivia, raffles and a chance to win $CASH
Trading hours
Monday – Open 3.00pm Dinner from 6.00pm Social Darts Night
Tuesday – Open 2.00pm
Dinner from 6.00pm Trivia Night
Wednesday – Open Midday
Lunch from 12.00pm Dinner from 6.00pm Pot’n’Parma Night
Thursday – Open Midday
Dinner from 5.30pm
Steak’n’Pot Night
Friday – Open Midday
Lunch from 12.00pm
Dinner from 5.30pm
Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm
With Hot Bar Snacks, Meat Raffle
Saturday – Open Midday
Lunch from 12.00pm Dinner from 5.30pm
Sunday – Open Midday All Day Pizza Menu Close 11.00pm
MOTHERS were treated to special lunches across the Loddon on Sunday as families gathered to help them celebrate Mother’s Day.
From hotel meals to picnics along the river, the fine weather added extra sunshine for generations of families being together.
At Steve’s Empire State Hotel in Inglewood, Sarah Williams, Melina Dillon, John Kyden Dillon, Ivy Schenck, Jack Schenck and Shirley Dillon (above) were among groups to enjoy Mother’s Day lunch.
The Isaac family from Powlett - Mal, Elyshia, Ryan and Linda - also had lunch at the hotel. LH PHOTOS
MORE heads have been shaved as Loddon communities rally to support Rowan Broad and raise funds for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.
Boort’s football, netball and hockey clubs raised more than $7200 at the weekend.
The fundraiser saw 19 heads shaved, a beard and a moustache.
Football president Craig Scott had his chest and back waxed.
Rowan’s sister-in-law Jacqui Challis said: “James Wilson and Greg Boyd did an amazing job encouraging people to donate to the cause.
“The fundraiser had an op-shop dress up theme and the two hair dressers in our women’s (hockey) team Sherryn O’Flaherty and Sharne Muller were dressed for the occasion - They were very busy on the clippers all night.
“It was a great night with all three Boort codes football, netball and hockey clubs coming together to support this amazing cause.
“Kelly Henderson and Chris O’Flaherty the president and secretary of the hockey
LICENCE transfers have been completed and beer is again flowing at Scully’s Hotel in Korong Vale.
Residents have welcomed the return of full service following last year’s change of ownership at the hotel,
Jack McLennan and Nigel Kett were among patrons to enjoy a sip when the transfer was made official last week.
club did an amazing job to make sure the night was a success.
The Boort fundraiser follows Pyramid Hill’s football and netball clubs starting support for Rowan and the foundation the previous week when 36 players and offi-
Local communities will have the opportunity to provide feedback on VNI West as the project goes through a comprehensive Environment Effects Statement (EES) process over the next two years.
The EES is a rigorous process to assess the potential impacts of major projects in Victoria, overseen by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).
As part of the EES process, TCV will carry out extensive technical and environmental studies along with landholder, community and Traditional Owner consultation to assess the potential impacts of the project and identify mitigation measures.
Studies will be wide-ranging, and will assess areas such as:
ABORIGINAL axes found on a Yando farm have been returned to Yung Balug Artefact Museum.
John Barnes had farmed the land with brother Barry and when retired, took the two green stone axes to Mornington.
He has now returned the axes to the district for permanent display in the museum
According the the museum’s Paul Haw, the quarries of the prize stone were found at Mt William 10km west of Lancefield.
“The valued metamorphic green stone blanks were used by the Aborigines for making their prized axes,” he said.
“These had to be sharpened on a base stone, most from this area were sharpened at Bridgewater in the Loddon River at the end of the lava flow near the Flour Mill. When the river is low, these groves are able to be seen where this activity took place.
“The prized axes from Mt William were traded to most states of Australia.”
Mr Haw said Barry and Betty Barnes had also supported the museum.
“They contributed generously towards the reproduction of the 32 photos that are now on display. These photos were taken by John Hunter Kerr who owned Fernihurst Station on the Kinypanial Creek which flows into Lake Boort,” he said.
“The originals are now at the State Library of Victoria and are regarded as some of the oldest photos taken of Aboriginal
people in their natural state in Australia in the very early 1850s.”
Mr Haw said return of the two axes had been welcomed by the Yung Balug Clan.
“These important artefacts and photos are preserved in the Boort District for everyone to enjoy,” he said.
“The Yung Balug Artefact Museum receives visitors from every state of Australia.”
AUSTRALIAN Council of Social Services advocate Cliff Fraser will take his calls for better support for people on Centrelink payments straight to Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers this month.
The Salisbury West man will speak at the ACOSS post-Budget forum in Sydney next week.
He will join Mr Chalmers, Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia CEO Mary Ann Baquero Geronimo Nicki Hutley and the social service agency’s CEO Cassandra Goldie to discuss the Budget that was handed down on Tuesday night.
Mr Fraser and his wife have lived in a caravan on their daughter’s property at Salisbury West since 2021.
A truck driver, Mr Fraser was on Centrelink benefits after a heart attack in 2011 before returning to work as a road pilot and escort.
However, he says an injury in 2019 left him with 18 per cent disability and has since had another heart attack.
“We don’t know what’s in the Budget but the Government has had the opportunity to fix things and they haven’t,” Mr Fraser said last week.
The full range of matters to be investigated will be developed by DTP in a document known as the “draft scoping requirements”. DTP will release the draft scoping requirements for public comment, providing the community with the opportunity to provide feedback before the scoping requirements are finalised and issued by the Minister for Planning.
Further information regarding the VNI West EES process can be found in our fact sheet on the TCV website and on the DTP website at www.planning.vic.gov.au
To register for regular VNI West project updates, visit the TCV website or email enquiries@transmissionvictoria.com.au
Freecall: 1800 824 221
Email: enquiries@transmissionvictoria.com.au
Website: transmissionvictoria.com.au
Mr Fraser said he had since taken jobs as a school cleaner, hospital porter and in a warehouse.
“I thought I had another 20-plus years working ahead of me. I had no idea that a heart attack would leave me unable to work and Centrelink was never in my future plans,” he said.
Mr Fraser said his message top the federal treasurer would be: “Put yourself in my place and you will see why we want to raise the rate (of payments)”.
“Increasing the daily payment from $56 to $82 would be the minimum,” he said.
ACOSS says its post-Budget event facilitates the opportunity for the community sector to engage in conversation following the release of the Federal Budget.
Dr Goldie said it was wrong for the government to condemn people such as Mr Fraser to poverty. “The Government must raise the rate of income support so people like Cliff are not left behind. “With unemployment expected to rise this year, lifting income support is not only the right thing to do; it provides an essential buffer against falling living standards and rising job losses.”
FROM PAGE 1
Loddon Shire elections are expected to be on new ward boundaries after a Victorian Electoral Commission review earlier this year.
Final recommendations on boundaries are with the State Government for approval.
The Government last month introduced legislation into Parliament mandating
training for mayors and councillors beyond existing induction training requirments for councillors.
New laws will enable the suspension or disqualification of individual councillors found to have created a risk to health and safety, or prevented the council from performing its functions.
Pre-election forums and workshops for prospective candidates start this week.
SIX debutantes entered an enchanted woodland at the Boort District Hospital ball on Friday night.
The ball, a major community fundraiser for the health service, was the culmination of dance training over recent months.
Debutantes and their partners were presented to a memorial hall packed with family and friends.
Accompanying the debs were flower girls and page boys who had earlier arrived at the hall dodging rain for a final runthrough under the watchful eye of trainers Sherryn and Chris O’Flaherty.
BDH CEO Donna Doyle acted as master of ceremonies for the evening.
The ball was organised by a community committee with support from BDH and local businesses.
All money raised from the evening will be donated to BDH.
The debutante set’s presentation dances were the Stanthorpe Schottische, Alpine Stroll and Mayfair Quickstep.
Debutantes were: Kathleen Hocking (partnered by Lachie Hall), Sienna Boyd (James Allison), Chloe Hare (Jack Potter), Caitlin Zanker (Ryan O’Flaherty), Ella Streader (Sam Toose), Jes-
Ready for the big night ... flowergirls and page boys prepare for their entry with debutantes and partners at the Boort District Health ball on Friday night.
sica McClelland (Tristian Zanker). Flower girls were: Isobel Crilly, Kristie Young, Lexie Kane, Isabelle Melville, Daisy Nuttall and Izzy Rowe. Page boys: Tyler Stringer, Hunter Nelson, Cruz Nuttall, Jack Rowe, Hugh Johnston and Archie Rowe.
BUSHLAND in the region is being used by some people as a dumping ground for rubbish.
And the Environment Protection Authority wants people to report illegal dumps.
North-west regional manager Paul Ratajczyk says anyone camping, mountain biking, hiking or just having a barbecue in the bush could do their bit for the environment.
“Give us a prompt report and an accurate location of the dump site, and you are giving EPA a better chance of tracking down the culprit and making them pay the price,” Mr Ratajczyk said.
“Taking a photo can help, too. With these simple measures, you can make sure your favourite spot in the bush doesn’t turn into a stinking, illegal tip.”
The EPA says loads of waste dumped in the bush often include construction and demolition waste, hazardous materials like asbestos and rotting household rubbish.
The EPA is asking residents to store the EPA hotline number 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) in their mobile phone and report any dumped rubbish they find in local bushland.
@JacintaErmacoraMP jacintaermacora.com.au
ROCKETS are back flying around Serpentine.
Members of the Victorian Rocketry Association have been at their Loddon launch field on the outskirts of the town for the start of this year’s series.
The solid-fuel charged rockets were launched last week by hobby enthusiasts and university teams.
Isaac Sims said latest rocket designs by university students were tested ahead of the Spaceport America event in New Mexico in June.
University teams, among more than 130 competitors, came from ANU, Adelaide, RMIT, Melbourne and Monash.
“We need a fair bit of land and air space clearance and the Serpentine site, that we have been using for many years, provides that,” said Isaac.
“We are a chapter of the global Tripoli Rocketry Association. Our members come from diverse backgrounds and interests but are united by their interest in building and launching rockets.”
He said 92 flights took place over the two days, with the lowpower pads getting a solid workout.
“The two-day launch is the biggest event on our annual schedule.”
The association says support for its Serpentine events had grown in recent years with more infrastructure now being put on the site. Rocketeers will be back in action at Serpentine next weekend.
Henry Smith, an aerospace engineering student, and mechanical engineering student Muisui Rahman at the Serpentine launch site where the first rocket events have started for 2024. LH PHOTOS
Dog and cat renewal of registration notices are in the mail.
Payment is due on 31 May 2024. Please check that your details are up to date, including your phone number in the event your animal goes missing and is found.
We give a commitment to returning registered wandering animals to their owner free of charge. (although repeated instances may incur a cost).
Thank you for your patience as we convert data to our new software system.
A BID in State Parliament could remove regulations that stop farmers from growing industrial hemp.
Victorian Farmers Federation is backing the Legalise Cannabis Party’s Bill, saying it would provide an exciting opportunity for Victorian farmers and industry to unlock the benefits of hemp.
“Victorian farmers want to be able invest in industrial hemp, but the regulatory burden is simply too heavy,” said president Emma Germano.
“We know hemp holds vast potential for various applications, including sustainable agriculture and construction materials. Removing government barriers, particularly those that are onerous or confusing, will unlock hemp’s full benefits, including the potential for secondary processing and manufacturing,” she said.
LODDON residents have been asked to share the story they most value about the region. Victorian Goldfields World Heritage bid has launched a survey asking for local stories to tell on the world stage about communities, people, culture and environment.
“World Heritage can bring benefits like visitors, jobs, and new experiences and we want to know what things that make your community a great place to live right now,” bid proponents said.
or children in the 2025 three or four-year-old kindergarten program, scan the QR code.
Council’s early year’s team can also post out enrolment forms to support families who may be having trouble accessing the online enrolment form. For more information or queries, please call Kindergarten Coordinator, Alycia O’Sullivan at Council on 5494 1200.
VOLUNTEERS are the heartbeat and lifeblood of Loddon communities.
Residents supporting each other to keep local organisations vibrant and showcasing the uniqueness of their towns.
From sporting organisations to important and valued volunteer roles at Boort District Health and Inglewood and District Health Services, they give freely of their time.
Loddon Shire Council’s volunteer strategy recognises that volunteers are the backbone behind communities.
Volunteers provide vital support for the delivery of a number of services, activities, projects, programs and key community assets.
The strategy recognises that volunteering builds the capacity of community members and promotes community connectedness, social inclusion and active citizenship.
When the strategy was developed two years ago, there was no shortage of volunteers to share their experiences. More than 300 community members confirmed the personal benefits of volunteering as well as the benefits for the community as a whole.
Those community conversations also highlighted the changing nature of volunteering in the Loddon Shire and the growing importance of flexible approaches to volunteering.
Making room for and supporting the next generation of volunteers to step up was viewed by the community as crucial for the future of volunteering in the Lod-
- Thoughts of a Loddon volunteer
don Shire. Being open to new ways of attracting and supporting younger volunteers and making volunteering easier are essential in this.
The Loddon Shire Council Volunteer Strategy 2022-2026 captures council’s vision and approach to supporting and growing community volunteering across the Shire. It highlights the crucial role volunteers play in the community and aims to build and maintain a vibrant and sustainable culture of volunteering.
And in National Volunteer Week 2024, the theme of Something for Everyone reflects the opportunities for residents to be involved in the life of their local Loddon communities.
National Volunteer Week 2024 next week will recognise the diverse passions and talents everyone brings to the act of volunteering.
It’s an invitation to explore the myriad of opportunities available, emphasising that there’s a place for everyone in the world of volunteering. Whether you’re drawn to community outreach, education, or beyond, there’s a place where your unique skills and interests can flourish.
Let’s come together during National Volunteer Week, embracing this theme to showcase the vast spectrum of possibilities and the transformative impact that emerges when everyone finds their meaningful role in making a difference.
Inglewood and Districts Health Service is proud to celebrate National Volunteer Week 2024 by recognising the invaluable contributions of volunteers to our Meals on Wheels and transport aged care programs. This year’s theme, ‘Something for Everyone,’ highlights the diverse passions and talents that volunteers bring to their roles.
National Volunteer Week is a time to acknowledge and thank the individuals who selflessly dedicate their time and effort to supporting our community. At Inglewood and Districts Health Service, our volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our consumers through the Meals on Wheels program and transport and aged care programs. We are celebrating in two locations for morning tea to thank our volunteers for their dedication.
The program, which provides nutritious meals and transportation assistance to members of our community, relies heavily on the dedication and commitment of our volunteers. Their compassion and generosity make a significant difference in the lives of those they serve, fostering a sense of connection and support within our community.
“Volunteers are the heart and soul of our organisation,” said Cindy Gould, Volunteer Engagement Officer at Inglewood and Districts Health Service. “Their dedication and compassion exemplify the spirit of National Volunteer Week. We are incredibly grateful for their contributions and their positive impact on our community's lives.”
IDHS encourage individuals to discover their passions and talents and explore the diverse range of available volunteering opportunities. We can make a difference and create a brighter future for our community.
For more information about volunteering with Inglewood and Districts Health Service, please contact Cindy at cgould@idhs.vic.gov.au.
A DETERMINED group of Loddon women have spent the best part of a decade transforming a disused railway station into a growing hub for community connection.
Kooyoora Women’s Network was established in 2007 and has since set about bringing people together.
Regular dinner meetings throughout the year have interesting, enlightening and thoughtprovoking guest speakers.
The group annually recognises a Loddon resident for the outstanding voluntary contributions to the community - previous recipients have been honoured for unselfish service to local groups,. churches and organising or being part of town events.
Yet it the background work that members of Kooyoora Women’s Network quietly perform, arranging support and assistance for people after natural disasters.
Members organised a community barbecue on the 10th anniversary of the 2011 floods that impacted Bridgewater and other Loddon communities.
Since being granted use of the
old Bridgewater Railway Station, the network has since had many community groups make use of the facility.
Bridgewater Garden Club is one group that holds its regular meetings in the old station.
The network has also developed a partnership with the nearby primary school and Loddon Plains Landcare Network with a community garden taking shape in the station precinct. Devel-
opment of the precinct has also been supported with grants from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.
Kooyoora Women’s Network members have also been part of the organising committee for Women on Farms Gatherings hosted in the Loddon Shire.
The old station is now also a Foodshare location to families in need of food and provisions during challenging times.
FOR more the 50 years Inglewood Lions Club has been synonymous with enriching local communities and their projects.
The club provides the drive behind Inglewood’s annual Australia Day celebrations with activities for all ages, none more eagerly anticipated than the swimming races.
And that commitment to tomorrow’s community leaders and contributors extends to providing annual school scholarships and the Christmas toy run to schools in Inglewood, Bridgewater and Tarnagulla.
Club members are now also setting themselves a new goal in supporting and encouraging youngsters of the area.
They hope to form a Leo’s club this year. Leo clubs are a youth organisation of Lions Clubs International.
Leo clubs encourage youth to develop leadership qualities by participating in service activities, focusing on three core values: Leadership, Experience, and Opportunity.
Former club president Eddy Sydor is one of the group looking to champion youngsters in a new club.
“Every Leo club requires a Li-
ons club to sponsor and initiate it, however the clubs themselves are youth-led,” Eddy said.
“There’s a real calling for a youth organisation in the area where young people can develop and be part of community projects.
“And Lions provides a wonderful way to be part of our communities, helping others and raising funds for important projects.”
Eddy said the club had already started spreading the message about forming a Leo club.
“There’s some enthusiasm out there ... young people are proud of where they live and looking for ways to be involved,” he said.
Inglewood Lions Club this year re-started the monthly markets in a new location, the lawns outside Inglewood Town Hall.
And members continue to raise funds with barbecues across the area.
“We often get asked to cater for functions of groups like Loddon Plains Landcare Network or visiting groups staying in the area for a few days.
“And if there’s a big clearing sale on, it’s a good bet that the Lions will be there serving up food and refreshments.”
Eddy said service clubs were an important part of country communities.
“I’m perhaps one of the younger members at Inglewood, only joining 10 years ago,” he said.
“But it’s great to be involved, being with other people and out and about in the community.
“Members give as much time as they are able ... there’s no demands to be at everything.
“When we are together, we have fun and enjoy each other’s company.
“That’s what makes joining Lions a good thing. We love to welcome new members!” Eddy says a Leos club will be part of strengthening future community service.
STRONG and committed community partnerships with engaged and caring volunteers are part of the vibrant life of Boort District Health.
Every day, volunteers help with the delivery of meals on wheels and assist staff with activities and excursions for aged care residents.
Among them is Kathy Lowrie who has been part of the volunteer team for eight years.
“I started volunteering to give back to the community and I really enjoy it,” said Kathy.
“People receiving meals on wheels are always on for a chat, welcoming us into their homes and happy to see us,” Kathy said.
“And the residents at Boort District Health love to share in the activities we put together or taking them for a drive around town, often telling stories of the streets we travel when they were youngsters.”
BDH chief executive officer Donna Doyle said volunteers were highly valued within the health service.
“We have long held a belief that community partnerships ensure that the health service remains a strong vibrant organisation,” Donna said.
“To improve the health outcomes of our community takes
a lot of work and we can’t do it alone.
“The ability to partner effectively with individuals and other organisations is absolutely essential to build a healthy community.
“Strong partnerships build stronger communities and allows for the sharing of expertise, skills and resources.”
Among the many volunteers are members of the ladies’ auxiliary, formed 90 years ago and have raised more than $400,000 for improvements at the local hospital.
“The auxiliary meets once a month and together plan funding projects for the health service.”
The main focus of the auxiliary is the op-shop in Godfrey Street, the community donating unwanted clothing and treasures for sale to their next owners.
BDH has also been a part of the Murray to Moyne bicycle relay since 2007.
During this period it has raised almost $120,000 for the urgent care centre.
Donna said BDH had enjoyed a long relationship with the local school. “Children regularly visit residents where they sing and entertain everyone,” she said
“Residents also enjoy visiting the school and have taken great interest in the community gar-
den. Boort District Health sponsors the annual debutante ball, it is a wonderful gala evening.
“Following the Debutante Ball each year, Boort District Health holds an old time ball, where the debutantes and their partners show their gowns and demonstrate their dancing skills. Resi-
dents enjoy joining in with the dancing.”
Donna said BDH always welcomed new volunteers. “They all bring so much to the life of Boort District Health, our residents and clients. And they allow our residents to stay connected with their local community.”
As long-time volunteer Kathy Lowrie said: “As volunteers we have so much enjoyment seeing the bright and smiling faces of residents joining in the activities
“The more volunteers, the more great activities residents can enjoy and that’s always so important.”
Partnerships are important in our local community - volunteers raising funds for our local health service and sharing time and talents with weekly activities for our residents.
From craft activities to excursions and community events, your contributions continue to be nothing short of amazing.
We welcome new volunteers as members of our Ladies’ Auxiliary, visitors to the hospital or sharing our good health messages in the community.
Our volunteers are helping build a healthy community.
Inglewood
Beds 3 | Bath 1 | Cars 3 | Land 751m
Price $560,000
NESTLED in the heart of Inglewood is a charming home that has undergone a full restoration.
Situated on a generous 751m2 corner allotment, the home is ideally positioned close to the local primary school and a leisurely walk from the main street’s grand historic buildings, reminiscent of the gold rush era, and brimming with antiques, local produce, and provedore shops.
This exquisite property features three bedrooms and one bathroom, and every aspect of the cottage has been meticulously attended to.
The home has been restored in keeping with the era, whilst also undergoing comprehensive updates including re-wiring, re-plumbing, re-stumping, and a new roof, ensuring a seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary reliability.
Vicky Tierney has spent the past two years restoring the house that was home to Edgar Jennings from 1921 to 1927.
“The house sat vacant for 25 years, changing owner twice before I bought it in June 2022,” she said.
Before Vicky started the renovation rescue, the Verdon Street house was a dilapidated shell.
Fast-forward and today the restoration shows off a wonderful house in a soughtafter area of Inglewood.
Inside, the home boasts high ceilings, ornate cornices, and dado rails along the hallway, alongside original timber windows adorned with stained glass detailing, all contributing to its timeless allure.
The contemporary kitchen features overhead cupboards, dishwasher, island bench and generous fridge cavity space.
The stylish bathroom with walk in shower, is styled to perfection with dramatic black tiles and features a freestanding vanity striking a delicate balance of modern and classic styling.
The home offers split system heating
and cooling for year round comfort and a cosy gas log fireplace in the living room is both practical and beautiful.
Outdoor living is a delight with an undercover entertaining area, lush lawn, decked verandahs, and access to a spacious four-bay shed (with three roller doors) via double gates on Sullivan Street, providing ample storage and workspace.
The property’s location is also ideal for those looking for peaceful country town living whilst still only a 36-minute commute to Bendigo, and an easy two-hour drive to Melbourne.
This stunning house represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of Inglewood’s history, beautifully modernised for today’s living.
10 Verdon Street,
Nestled in the heart of the quaint gold rush town of Inglewood, this charming Victorian cottage has undergone a full restoration. Situated on a generous 751m2 corner allotment, the home is ideally positioned close to the local primary school and a leisurely walk from the main street’s grand historic buildings, reminiscent of the gold rush era, and brimming with antiques, local produce, and provedore shops.
The Australian wool market has been unable to maintain the positive tone evident at the end of the previous series, recording losses last week, again heavily influenced by currency movement. The national offering fell below 40,000 bales for the second consecutive selling series, 38,476 bales were on offer, of which just over 90% was sold.
After the Australian dollar climbed above 66 US cents before the opening lot, losses were expected when the market opened. These expectations were realised from the first lot, and by the end of the first selling day the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for merino fleece had fallen by between 2 and 46 cents, across the three selling centres. With downward movement in the other sectors, the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) was pushed down by 14 cents. Due to the strengthening of the Australian dollar when viewed in US dollar terms the market improved. The EMI climbed by 6 US cents. The second selling day the market settled somewhat, again heavily influenced by currency, as the Australin dollar eased before the start of the second day. The merino fleece MPG movements for day two ranged between minus 33 and plus 11 cents. The EMI dropped by a further 4 cents, while in USD terms the EMI lost 5 cents. The EMI closed the week at 1,134 cents, a fall of 18 cents. In USD terms the EMI rose by the barest of margins, closing one cent higher at 746 US cents. After rising for five consecutive selling days, the EMI has since gone on a five selling day downward run, losing a total of 43 cents across these sales, a drop of 3.7%.
This week’s offering is again expected to be below 40,000 bales. There are currently 39.420 bales on offer in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle.
Source: AWEX
109 MIDLAND HIGHWAY, EPSOM
Phone 03 5455 6333 Fax 03 5448 3936
Branch Manager & Senior Agronomist
Craig Sharam 0408 188 351
Wool - Adam Millard 0400 499 064
Livestock - Nigel Starick 0408 528 322
Wade Broadstock 0427 337 231
Lachie McAlister 0428 717 403
Chris Anderson 0408 921 540
Merchandise - Glenn Jackson 0429 076 459
Agronomy - Anton Mannes 0499 708 044
Josh Mcleod 0447 678 609
SHEEP were the market mover at Bendigo on Monday following the rain.
But sales of light ewes were the talking point market as they sold to much dearer levels than recent weeks.
Lamb supply was cut back to 8120 head or 5000 less than last week. It was a fairly scrappy offering with a lot of plainer woolly type lambs and not as many well fed heavy lambs on offer. Lamb prices were stronger than the dull sale here at Bendigo a week ago, but the market still didn’t show a lot of energy or momentum.
There was limited sales above 700c/kg for neat lambs in short-skins, but the general run of trade and heavy lambs were estimated as costing processors from 650c to 680c/kg cwt.
There was less weight and style in the heavy export lambs and they sold from $205 to a top of $230 at a ballpark cost of 680c/kg cwt. Heavy lambs 26-30kg from $166 to $214, the price spread showing how buyers remained selective around breed type, condition and quality. Most of the better presented trade lambs from $130 to $162/head.
Trade weight Merino lambs sold to $151. Quality in the light lambs was very mixed with the better style processing types generally from $70 to $130/head. There wasn’t many good store lambs to suit restockers. Competition intensified for sheep, particularly for light mutton below 24kg cwt.
A pen of extra heavy meat ewes topped at $145, with most sales of heavy ewes and wethers from $90 to $125/head. Bidding pushed-up underneath this for light and lean trade sheep which made from $60 to $108 for pens offering some skin return.
The price range for sheep was 320c to just over 400c/kg cwt, with most categories av-
eraging between 330c and 380c/kg cwt. CROSSBRED LAMBS
T Tobin Costerfield (51) $210. G & I Watson Rochester (26) $210. Gredgwin Ridge Boort (48) $204. WL,LG & RK Boyd Pyramid Hill (63) $201. Elysian Downs Raywood (77) $198.
BS & T
A lighter yarding overall with 9,000 lambs and 4,000 sheep. All lambs were $8-10 dearer and sheep were $15-25 dearer.
discuss the marketing opportunities available for your livestock, contact the McKean McGregor team.
WHEEL cactus was spreading faster than it could be controlled, a veteran Landcare crusader told a conference in Inglewood on Monday.
Tarrengower Cactus Control Group’s Lee Mead was one of three speakers at the Loddon Plains Landcare Network day discussing how to combat evasive weeds.
Lee said a co-ordinated statewide attack on wheel cactus was needed.
She wants a Victorian wheel cactus task force to increase awareness and co-ordinate the implementation of integrated management plans including use of injection herbicide and manual removal.
Monday’s forum was told that wheel cactus had spread from the Maldon district to nearby Laanecoorie and Eddington in recent decades.
And Lee said the infestation at Mount
Buckrabanyule since 1986 was another serious outbreak.
She said the battle to combat wheel cactus needed sufficient financial support and resources to increase compliance by property owners, describing current “compliance” threats as impotent.
La Trobe University head of environment and genetics environment John Morgan explored weed management techniques. His team is working with conservation groups, government agencies and land managers to provide evidence-based solutions that take into account biodiversity, ecosystem function, and management opportunities.
“My goal is to apply the basic and applied science we do to the challenges of restoration, species invasion, and environmental change,” he said.
PRECISION Ag could reduce inputs and maximise outputs without always needing expensive technology and equipment.
Nutrien Boort’s Tim Flick in a presentation for local farmers last week after the branch teamed with Boort District School students for a Do it For Dolly fundraising breakfast.
Mr Flick said Precision Ag options ranged from mapping paddocks, data analysis, to collecting and analysing soil samples.
“Precision Ag is all about maximising your outputs by reducing your inputs, this can be achieved by improving processes and areas within your farm- whether that be differing your fertiliser rates, to altering your variety/plant density to match the yield potential of each area/paddock. To determine this, we need to establish limitations of that area,” he said.
He said local farmers had access to options to find the limitations of their soil and map out the underperforming areas, using EM38 technology to establish soil depth, salinity and plant available moisture, soil coring machine to determine soil characteristics, nutrient levels and health of the soil.
“This information then can be used to make variable rate maps which can allow farmers to alter their fertiliser rates to match those areas’ needs.
“We can then use NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) maps to determine if there are areas that are starting to
fall behind in growth in comparison to the rest of the paddock and see if the sowing plan has set the plant up to try and reach its maximum potential.
“The addition of yield mapping allows us to gain a final understanding upon the development of the crop and see if there has been any shortfall of the season.
“With all this information overlayed a greater understanding upon the restrictions that the crop is facing and potential opportunities to overcome the issues present.”
Farmers at Friday’s briefing also heard about slug and snail management from Nutrien Boort’s Mikaela Wilkinson
MONDAY 20TH MAY 2024-WEDNESDAY 22ND MAY 2024
Online Sale Commencing: Monday 20th May at 9am Closing Countdown: Wednesday 22nd May at 4pm
BENTLEY CAR, MOTORBIKE, JCB DIGGER, WORKSHOP SALE & SUNDRIES
Inspection/ Open Day: Sunday 19th May- 9.30am-11.30am
Collection Days: Sunday26 th May 9.30-12pm & Wednesday 29th May 9am-11am
Agent: Chris Nevins 0408 510 626
THE demand for agritourism experiences is on the rise and Loddon is well placed to offer a variety of experiences to domestic and international visitors.
With our highly productive soils and ideal climate; agriculture, horticulture, and livestock industries make up 70 per cent of the Loddon Shire’s economy, creating opportunities for diversification into this rapidly growing market.
Agritourism describes experiences and attractions that bring visitors to regional and rural Australia and provides them with the opportunity to experience elements across the spectrum of food and agribusiness, from primary production to retail.
Be it a farm stay or farm-gate, a cooking class, a self-picking experience, a permaculture workshop, a food and wine festival, a paddock to plate experience matched to local wines or a brewery tour, the potential for innovation in agritourism is almost endless.
Loddon’s central location and accessibility to Melbourne, existing recognition as a food and
Sir, I question the claim that duck season was “as good as Easter” (Loddon Herald May 2).
Cr Dan Straub claimed that duck season is ‘as good as Easter’ during a recent Loddon Shire Council meeting as reported in the Loddon Herald.
How can we trust the leadership in council when they promote their own cause and not the ratepayers?
The truth was bent substantially. This is now a running joke around town.
There were over 1000 visitors in Boort over Easter, the majority staying at the Caravan Park, Free Camping site at Boort Park and an overflow of approximately 40 vans near the swimming pool. Not to mention extra families staying with relations and numerous day visitors. Boort
BUShy tAlES By IAN jONESwine destination and inclusion as part of the Bendigo UNESCO
Creative City and Region of Gastronomy, is a strong draw for foodie tourists.
With established high-profile brands and producers, and plenty of room for new entrants, the region can further capitalise on the growing number of visitors embracing experience-based tourism.
The CSIRO expects demand for agritourism in Australia to reach $18.6 billion by 2030, an increase of around five cent per annum.
Whilst the domestic day and overnight tourism market will increase, the strongest growth will be seen in international visitation, which is expected to almost double.
The evaluation of the first 12 months of Flavours of Loddon has just been completed.
As project coordinator, I am keen to see an expansion of the program in 2024/25 to include agritourism experiences.
More and more people are seeking to connect with the land and understand where their food
was alive end to end for almost a week.
I drove to the wetlands on duck killing eve and was surprised to see how few shooters there were compared to other years. Most duck shooters camp onsite and bring their own supplies.
Over 80 per cent of Victorians want duck shooting to end as it is so harmful to the flora and fauna, yet the three anti-woke councillors made the Loddon Shire support duck killing at the State Parliament Inquiry Into Duck Shooting.
Why didn’t the councillors support the majority of ratepayers?
I thought that we lived in a democracy. The councillors should have put their own submissions in and not made use of Council Privilege.
Less than half of one per cent of the population are actually duck shooters, I think that it would be much better to aim for one or two per cent of the general popu-
comes from and how it is produced.
In addition to events such as Inglewood Alive and the Flavours of Loddon Festival Boort, we would like to include a weekend program on the Labour day long weekend in March 2025, which will show case a variety of agritourism and gastronomy experiences from across the region”
We are keen to hear from businesses who are interested in finding out more about joining in or who have any questions about how they might turn their idea into an agritourism or gastronomy experience.
This weekend will be a great opportunity to test the market and try out an idea. It is also hoped that if the weekend is successful that we can grow and develop agritourism experiences in Loddon throughout the year.
As this sector continues to grow, it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping Loddon’s tourism landscape.
*AnneMarieDavisisthecoordinatorofFlavoursofLoddonlation to visit northern Victoria. Duck shooters claim that they are great environmentalists and yet I cannot name one environmental project carried out by field and game around Boort’s significant wetlands, only destruction of their surrounds.
I have never forgiven the shooters at Box Flat near Boort where, over 2000 birds of all descriptions floated ashoreno-one was prosecuted for this crime. Some shooters, once they get their bag full just keep on shooting and let the birds stay where they fall.
I get so disappointed when I see duck shooters camping on Aboriginal cooking mounds.
There needs to be training and respect for the past, this year we lost a magnificent Scarred Tree to a duck shooters campfire at Yando Swamp.
Paul Haw Boort
1. Suomi is the local name for which European country?
2. Who is the current captain of the Australian men’s test cricket team?
3. What substance makes up human hair and finger nails?
4. The term ‘déjà vu’ comes from which language?
5. On a standard QWERTY keyboard, which number shares the key with the % symbol?
6. Iron pyrites is know by what other name because of the precious metal it resembles?
7. In a standard game of pool, what colour are the 3 and 11 balls?
8. What is measured in hertz?
9. Does Canada have a Prime Minister or President?
10. Astigmatism affects which human body part?
11. Who would use a maulstick/mahlstick?
12. The language called Pictish was spoken in which country during the middle ages?
13. Which member of the cat family does not have retractable claws?
14. In Iceland, what is the basic monetary unit?
15. What is the longest side of a right-angled triangle called?
16. Mycology is the branch of biology that studies what?
17. Which book of the Bible features Noah’s Ark?
18. The film ‘The King’s Speech’ is about which British monarch?
19. Who is Superman’s alter ego?
20. And which newspaper does he work for?
BRADLEY of Boort gives his take on getting fit with this week’s Treemendous Sign. Guess, after the pumpkin paddle, he’s decided to change favourite vegies and become a couch potato.
RUNNING fast and furious though are footballers and netballers. There’s even been talk that one of the Loddon’s famous pigeon pairs are going to tackle Mount Wycheproof later this year after the challenge was issued by the current queen. As they say in the classics, we’d like to see that.
AROUND the traps are running jokes that have
been trotted out for longer than even living memories. One of the classics is about our sporting chao The Oracle never running four when armed with umpiring whistle. He’s avoided donning the olive livery this season and instead, has run (by car) greater distances than ever travelled on the footy field to watch No 2 son kick the leather around up north. No 2, we’re told, is eyeing investments in some large paddocks.
K EEPING up the farm and vegie theme this week - Why shouldn’t you tell a secret on a farm? Because the potatoes have eyes and the corn has ears.
W ITH all the wisdom that flies around, we all know why the scarecrow won a Nobel Prize. He was outstanding in his field.
WHEN businessman and animal lover George Bills died in 1927, the days of horse and cart traversing country roads around Australia were already in decline.
The motor car had gained huge popularity after World War One and Henry Ford’s T-Model Ford was being shipped to Australia in their hundreds.
The number of coachbuilders, wheelwrights and blacksmiths was dwindling, some converted businesses to sell cars and staff retrained as motor mechanics.
But Bills’ will was clear: Establish a trust to “construct and erect and pay for horse troughs wherever they may be of the opinion that such horse troughs are desirable for the relief of horses and other dumb animals either in Australasia, in the British Islands or in any other part of the world subject to the consent of the proper authorities being obtained.”
Historians have written that the lean years on the family farm between Moama and Torrumbarry in the 1870s, George’s father witnessed the suffering of animals with little food and water, and this no doubt impacted the way he saw the animal world.
While George’s father was not in a position to do much himself at that time, he resolved to help animals if and when he could. As providence would have it, his wish would eventually be fulfilled through the life of his son George, who knew of his father’s caring ambition.
A decade later, George Bills moved to Brisbane and opened a small bird dealership where his brother Henry was also in business.
They later had a mattress wire weaving factory and moved to Sydney. They patented their own weaving machine, a patent that paid off handsomely for the family. The family went from barely making ends meet, to earning a small fortune.
The business, which had previously traded as Henry Bills, was renamed in March 1898 to Bills Brothers.
George became active in the Society for the Protection of Animals in England, New Zealand and Australia and was awarded life membership of what became known as the RSPCA.
After the death of his wife Annis, George Bills moved to Melbourne where he died. Historians
have written that George was a charitable man and had a reputation for constantly reaching out to people in need. He also had a deep compassion for the welfare of animals and it was this love that saw him finance the production of concrete horse troughs with more than £80,000 left in the will.
Within six years, more than 250 troughs have already been made although the first trough in his honour is believed to be in Centennial Park, Sydney, which was donated three years before George died.
Later there was a standard, more ornate design as seen across Loddon communities, pre-cast concrete with steel reinforcements.
Most of the troughs made in Victoria had three moulded front panels and panels moulded on the rear. Troughs made in New South Wales had four panels on the front and five on the back.
Victorian troughs were made by a Bills’ relative, J H Phillips. Later, other manufactures for the trust’s troughs included Rocla Concrete Pipes Ltd, in Auburn Road, Hawthorn, who produced to the same original design until World War Two.
These concrete water troughs were produced for the wellbeing of thirsty horses and some provided lower drinking containers on the side for dogs and smaller animals.
Locally, there are troughs in the region at Timor, Maryborough, Majorca, Talbot, Dunolly, Wedderburn, Carisbrook, and Tarnagulla.
At Inglewood, the trough has been relocated to the Lions Park painted and used as a large flower pot.
More than 700 troughs were installed in towns across Australia, an estimated 50 made their way overseas. Each with the inscription “Donated by Annis and George Bills Australia”.
Today it is estimated that 300 troughs survive even if in different locations.
Bridgewater is near the river, Pyramid Hill’s now at the historical museum and Tarnagulla at the sports ground.
How did the troughs come to be erected in Loddon towns. The local councils had to provide foundations and a water supply and apply to the Bills Trust for a trough.
And the caring nature of George Bills, known as Joe, extended beyond animals.
Researcher Laura Breen wrote in 2014: “According to unpublished family recollections kindly supplied to me by Bills horse trough researcher Mr George Gemmill, Joe’s generosity also extended to human hardship. He reportedly arranged for the construction of a shelter for waiting rail passengers at Kilmore,and a
shelter for hansom cab drivers in Melbourne’s Russell St to keep the rain off while they waited for theatre patrons.
“The hardy construction of these troughs has allowed significant numbers to survive in towns and cities across Australia, albeit few that are fully functional. Towards the end of the 20th century, local interest in the troughs was revived and a small body of enthusiasts have undertaken ex-
tensive research into surviving examples,” she has written. George Bills did not have children. In 1885 he married Annis Swann, a woman who shared his sympathetic attitude toward animal rights.
The troughs that survive are his lasting gift to the welfare of animals as much to his wife, the first named on every plaque on those troughs that have survived for almost a century.
EREAVEMENT THANK s
THANK YOU for all the love, kindness and support you have shown us, we are grateful and it will always be remembered.
The land a ected by the application is located at: 11 Park Street, Bridgewater on Loddon VIC 3516
The application is for a permit to: Variation of a restrictive covenant on title to allow the construction of a solid fence
The applicant for the permit is: Andrew Ferguson
The application reference number is: 5961
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the o ce of the Responsible Authority.
Loddon Shire Council O ces – 41 High Street Wedderburn VIC 3518
This can be done during o ce hours and is free of charge.
Please direct any queries to the Planning Department by calling (03) 5494 1200 or emailing planning@loddon.vic.gov.au.
Any person who may be a ected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.
An objection must: - be in writing - state how you will be a ected by the granting of the permit - be sent to the Responsible Authority at PO Box 21 Wedderburn 3518 or planning@loddon.vic.gov.au
The Responsible Authority will not decide on this application before the 31 May 2024. If you object, the Responsible Authority will inform you of its decision.
CAREERS AT LODDON SHIRE
Loddon Shire Council is seeking applications for the following positions from highly motivated, enthusiastic, energetic and outcome focused individuals who want to make a di erence and help shape our future.
Customer Service O
Based at Council’s Wedderburn O ce Applications for the position above close Monday, 20 May 2024.
Tractor Operator – ref.J/265
Permanent, full-time position (9 day fortnight)
Annual salary range $66,374.18$70,993.84, plus employer superannuation
Applications for the position above close Monday, 3 June 2024.
For further information, including a detailed position description and details on how to apply, please visit Council’s website www.loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Organisation Development Unit on (03) 5494 1200.
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UPPER Loddon cricket is poised for an overhaul after clubs pushed the need for a more flexible and engaging competition structure on Monday night.
Clubs are backing a likely five-week T20 season in the opening weeks of the 2024-2025 season after securing the association’s future.
Bridgewater will return to the senior competition in a co-operative venture with the dormant Inglewood club, aiming to both become standalone outfits in the future.
Their delegates to the meeting, John Daldy and Tony Noonan, said it was hoped to play some games at Inglewood.
A fifth team has ensured reigning premiers Arnold remain in the competition.
Neighbouring associations had been watching the Upper Loddon association.
Emu Valley had two representatives at the meeting and Maryborough had contacted local clubs in the past week “opening the door” if they wanted a shift.
However, Upper Loddon clubs have remained committed to playing on locally next season.
Club delegates flagged a T20 season before Christmas followed by one-day and two-day matches.
Wedderburn president Ian Gould also suggested that restrictions be put on batsmen in one-day encounters. “Currently, there respect for bowlers (maximum seven overs) but not batsmen. Have them retire at 50,” he said.
Clubs are also pushing for senior sides to have limited permit players, naming
16 players for two-day games and captains able to agree on start times on hot days.
They also want flexibility to have games on Friday nights or Sundays.
Bridgewater’s Claire Harrison, who is among parent drivers for the junior team, said different formats acknowledging time availability of players were needed.
“We have to change with the times and have something fresh,” she told the meeting.
Association and Kingower secretary Michael Rose said the introduction of T20 would be a compromise for his club that wanted two-day games to assist with junior player development.
He said shorter format games gave youngsters little opportunity with their
time at the crease “a big slog and learning nothing”
Clubs had canvassed whether a team could be revived in Serpentine to join Arnold, Boort Yando, Wedderburn,. Arnold and Bridgewater-Inglewood without success.
There has also been informal talks identifying establishment of a junior team drawn from the successful East Loddon Rams Football Club based on Serpentine, Dingee, Calivil and Mitiamo.
However, the junior competition for next season will again be four teams unless formal moves are made on the East Loddon side
Clubs will submit formal rule change proposals to the association by June 17 and put them to the vote at the annual general meeting in July.
Bridgewater celebrated the anniversaries of its 1974, 1984 and 2014 premiership sides on Saturday. Andrew Perryman captured the day on and off the field
PYRAMID Hill has stamped itself as the side the beat in Loddon Valley netball after a five-goal win over Mitiamo on Saturday.
The hard-fought win was aided by Imogen Broad in the centre and Gemma Scott playing wing defence.
It leaves Pyramid Hill as the only undefeated team in the A Grade competition and two games clear of Mitiamo, Newbridge and Bridgewater.
The Mean Machine created a buffer with Bears Lagoon Serpentine with an 11 point win over the Bears.
Bears are now equal on points but keeping reigning premiers Maiden Gully out of the five.
Saturday’s clashes at Bridgewater marked 150 club games for the Mean Machine for Ashlee Bowen and Tamara Wardell.
Pyramid Hill also remains undefeated in B and C Grade.
Marong is undefeated in C Reserves while the Panthers and Bridgewater are yet to drop a game in the 17 and unders.
Bridgewater’s Sidney Niemann was part of the Mean Machine A Grade outfit that had an 11-goal victory over Bears Lagoon Serpentine on Saturday.
Despite the mugging conditions and mud underfoot, eight players competed in Saturday’s stableford.
With a couple of early birdies, Stuart Tweddle burst out of the blocks and even though he ran out of puff towards the end, his 35 points were still good enough to take out the top prize.
This left Damien Lanyon, Andrew Kane and Kevin Linehan to fight over the two balls up for
grabs in the ball run, with the later missing out on the countback. In the nearest-the-pins, Andrew took out two on the par-3s.
A stroke event will be played this Saturday.
Ladies golfers started the 2024 competition last Wednesday with a nine-hole stroke event. Winner for the day was Carol Canfield with 37 nett, and Diane Wayman and Carol Canfield were
Under 12: Boort 0 lost to Wycheproof-Narraport 4, Charlton 1 d Birchip Watchem 0, St Arnaud 9 d Donald 0, Underage: Boort 2 (Jake O’Flaherty 2) dWycheproof-Narraport 1, Charlton 0 drew Birchip Watchem 0, St Arnaud 4 d Donald 1. Ladder: St Arnaud 100, Sea Lake Nandaly 100, St Arnaud 83, Donald 67, Boort 50, Birchip Watchem 8, Wycheproof Narraport 4, Wedderburn 0. Women: Boort 1 (Lucy Malone) lost to Wycheproof-Narraport 7, Charlton 13 d Birchip Watchem 0, St Arnaud 4 d Donald 0,
A Grade
Mitiamo 12, 24, 37, 49, (49) lost to Pyramid Hill 15, 29, 41, 54, (54). Bridgewater 12, 18, 32, 45, (45) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 6, 14, 22, 34, (34). Calivil 10, 17, 22, 28, (28) lost to Marong 12, 18, 34, 46, (46). Maiden Gully 12, 25, 43, 52, (52) lost to Inglewood 5, 15, 24, 35, (35).
Pyramid Hill 149.47 20
Mitiamo 182.99 12
Newbridge 141.18 12
Bridgewater 122.58 12
BL Serpentine 110.48 8
Maiden Gully 98.34 8
Marong 83.07 8
Inglewood 43.39 0
Calivil 39.83 0
B Grade
Calivil 6, 17, 28, 30, (30) lost to Marong 22, 36, 58, 77, (77). Maiden Gully 16, 30, 44, 54, (54) d Inglewood 2, 7, 20, 27, (27). Mitiamo 14, 21, 25, 33, (33) lost to Pyramid Hill 8, 22, 34, 50, (50). Bridgewater 16, 24, 36, 50, (50) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 8, 16, 27, 32, (32).
Pyramid Hill 143.50 20
Newbridge 190.74 16
Marong 137.07 12
Maiden Gully 135.57 12
Bridgewater 99.54 12 Mitiamo 76.96 4 BL Serpentine 71.04 4 Calivil 58.20 0 Inglewood 51.61 0
C Grade
Mitiamo 8, 16, 33, 41, (41) lost to Pyramid Hill 11, 28, 34, 48, (48). Maiden Gully 9, 16, 22, 36, (36) d Inglewood 8, 17, 24, 27, (27). Bridgewater 7, 19, 27, 43, (43) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 11, 21, 27, 41, (41). Calivil 12, 16, 23, 31, (31) lost to Marong 10, 23, 32, 45, (45).
Pyramid Hill 144.94 18
153.66 16
Gully 146.40 14
124.84 12
102.99 12
105.84 4
Serpentine 92.46 4
45.37 0 Inglewood 36.07 0
C Reserve
Maiden Gully 13, 26, 43, 56, (56) d Inglewood 8, 19, 28, 40, (40). Bridgewater 13, 26, 41, 55, (55) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 9, 20, 31, 38, (38). Mitiamo 4, 12, 18, 22, (22) lost to Pyramid Hill 12, 22, 31, 38, (38). Calivil 5, 11, 20, 25, (25) lost to Marong 14, 32, 45, 55, (55).
Marong 206.72 20
Maiden Gully 175.00 16
Pyramid Hill 124.22 16
Newbridge 142.74 12
Bridgewater 101.99 8
BL Serpentine 68.70 4
Mitiamo 61.39 4
Inglewood 64.65 0
Calivil United 43.48 0
17 & Under
Bridgewater 16, 28, 40, 50, (50) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 11, 15, 24, 34, (34). Calivil 5, 17, 23, 31, (31) lost to Marong 9, 19, 30, 43, (43). Maiden Gully 10, 23, 35, 49, (49) d Inglewood 8, 14, 21, 26, (26).
d Marong 3, 10, 15, 18, (18). Maiden
joint winners of the putting competition with 13 putts.
Opening day was held last Wednesday with president Rob Pollock welcoming members and guests and Marg Falla hitting the opening ball.
A three-person Ambrose was played. Winning team was Dale Gibbon, Deidre Ryan and veteran member Betty Higgs, with 48 gross and 10 putts.
Men: Boort 6 (Harry Malone 3, Luke Slatter 2, Zac Poxon) d Wycheproof-Narraport 3, Charlton 5 d Birchip Watchem 0, St Arnaud 1 lost to Donald 3. Ladder: Boort 100, Wycheproof Narraport 80, Donald 67, St Arnaud 33, Charlton 33, Sea Lake Nandaly 33, Donald 0.
Marong 204.55 20
Bridgewater 207.63 20
Maiden Gully 133.98 16
Calivil 94.07 8
Pyramid Hill 89.24 8
BL Serpentine 84.65 8
Inglewood 74.71 4
Newbridge 25.88 0 15 & Under
Bridgewater 9, 23, 39, 49, (49) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 5, 10, 13, 16, (16). Maiden Gully 13, 27, 44, 51, (51) d Inglewood 12, 13, 16, 20, (20). Mitiamo 5, 15, 26, 26, (26) d Pyramid Hill 4, 7, 16, 16, (16). Calivil 3, 11, 21, 29, (29) d Marong 4, 7, 10, 17, (17).
Calivil 236.90 16
Marong 157.69 16
Bridgewater 155.56 16 BL Serpentine 79.44 12 Maiden Gully 121.53 8 Inglewood 63.48 8 Mitiamo 56.44 4 Pyramid Hill 37.95 0 13
BIG name Boort recruit James Keeble inspired the developing Pies to hang on for a vital twopoint victory over Wycheproof Narraport in North Central football on Saturday.
The strength and agility of the former Ballarat league top flight player proved crucial for the Pies getting the ball inside its forward 50. Holding off the dogged Demons in the last quarter also brought out a trait not seen in the Pies in recent years.
Capitulation to pressure in the dying minutes of matches has frustrated coach Dale Cameron since he took over last season.
But Saturday perhaps marked a turning point and hope the Pies are building mental toughness.
Tom Potter in the centre put in another per-
INGLEWOOD juniors have had a commanding 69-point win in Loddon Valley under 18s.
However, victory came at a high price with Riley Murphy breaking his leg late in the clash against Pyramid Hill.
Murphy was taken to hospital he underwent surgery on Monday to begin repairs on the double break.
Both clubs agreed to continue playing the match after the incident had halted the game.
East Loddon Rams notched up their third win of the season against a spirited Bridgewater who pegged the margin with an impressive final term on Saturday. Liam Stephens, Aidan Roulston, Cade Tuohey, Tyler Rasmussen and Isaac JohnstoneMcCloud were best for the Rams.
Marong, with the bye last weekend, continues on top of the ladder and is yet to drop a game this season.
formance to catch the eyes of fans and those giving out the votes while onballer Jhye Baddeley-Kelly is proving to be among the Pies’ most consistent in the season that now has a squared ledger - two wins and two losses ahead of this weekend’s league bye.
James Byrne had a better day in the ruck after the torrid encounter with Wedderburn’s Jordan Hargreaves the previous week.
Boort showed its potential to have a big win against the Demons with five goals in the first quarter, before the visitors bounced back in the second term of the Pink Round and trail by just seven points at the main break.
Scoring shots were equal in the vital third term, luckily for the Pies, accuracy was better and the lead extended to 12 points.
Wycheproof Narraport came out in the final stanza. This time it was the Demons more accurate in front of goal.
While Boort had much of the play all day, conversion and accuracy in front of goal remains to be locked into the goal plan.
Cameron said the Pies still have to learn how to put sides away.
Boort sits one game outside the top four but with a percentage off the mark of Donald.
The grand final rematch saw Sea Lake Nandaly account for Nullawil by 28 points.
Josh Jenkins with nine goals was clearly the Tigers’ best.
Birchip Watchem is the only undefeated side after five rounds and boasts a vastly superior percentage.
THE hype at Bridgewater this season has been around the arrival of Lachlan Sharp and his ability to shrug off opponents and slot through goal after goal.
His early season dominance since switching from Bendigo league power Strathfieldsaye came to a shuddering halt against Pyramid Hill.
And while Sharp was back with something of a vengeance against Bears Lagoon Serpentine in last Saturday’s match of the Loddon Valley round, it was again Boden Alexander showing he is the real recruitment coup of 2024 for the Mean Machine.
The gutsy and gritty onballer was creating opportunities as he has done in every game this season.
Named in the best each week since returning from a two-year stint with Strathfieldsaye, Alexander was the real difference against the Bears, rattled by the yellow-carding of Mellington in the first quarter and missing the steadying influence of veteran Andy Gladman.
The Bears still had good contributors in Miles, Priest and former coach Justin Laird but lacked the ability to put in four quarters of football, that old curse back to haunt.
They came back within nine points with a solid third quarter but could not match the ferocity of Bridgewater playing before club premiership heroes from the last 50 years and still smarting from the drubbing at the hands of Pyramid Hill the week before.
Bridgewater had the answers up forward. Andy Collins was
back in the side and booted five goals. Sharp added three to his season’s tally but again spent most of the second half in the midfield.
The pace was faster in the second and third terms, suiting Bridgewater’s style of playopening up the game and finding a clear path up forward.
This is where Alexander was critical for sending the Mean Machine into its forward 50. Time after time he was the creator and the link. However, there was a downside for the former University Black, he took a heavy knock in the last quarter and left the ground. Bridgewater held the visiting Bears to one goal in the final term, capping off reunion day with a 26-point victory.
A super second quarter from Inglewood against Maiden Gully has the Blues with confidence ahead of must-win matches if they are to secure fifth spot. Maiden Gully had only trailed by eight points at the first break. Then Will Allen tightened the game plan for Inglewood in defence, Daniel Polack took control in the centre and Mitch Conlan slotting goals.
Inglewood, however, eased in the last term allowing Maiden Gully to kick five goals to three.
Calivil again showed it can take the game up to top sides for a quarter or two, pushing Marong early before the Panthers broke away to 97-point win. And Pyramid Hill was simply two strong for Mitiamo. The Bulldogs had 13 goalkickers including defender Tom McGregor in the percentage boosting win.
THE most decorated player in Northern Territory football is bound for Calivil in a reunion with his former coach and current Demons’ mentor Ant Dennis.
Cam Ilett will line up for Calivil in next weekend’s round seven clash against Inglewood.
The 58-game with Port Adelaide in the South Australian league has been playing in the Northern Territory since 2001.
His Top End career 10 premierships and six team of the year selections, four as captain, and multiple league best and fairest medals.
“If ever the AFL recruiting scouts have got it wrong it is that Cameron has never been drafted. But their bad luck is the football people of Darwin’s good luck,” Northern Territory fans have said of his career.
Ilett played three seasons with Tongala when Dennis had the coaching reins and was called up for a game with Essendon re-
serves in 2021. Last season he also played with South Cairns kicking 32 goals in 12 games.
The Calivil-Inglewood clash looms as key for the fortunes of both teams this season.
A win to Inglewood will consolidate its hold on fifth spot while victory to the Demons will keep the young side in touch with middle-tier teams and show there are prospects of improvement.
WELL the Blues climbed and conquered the Dome and the Eagles on Saturday.
In fact, Inglewood did it with reasonable ease to edge closer to making a solid and indelible stamp on fifth spot by the halfway mark of the season.
I’ve said it will only take a handful-plus wins to grab that spot. With a few more looming matches against lower tier sides, Inglewood can expand the gap with its challengers in coming weeks.
Saturday’s win over Maiden Gully was really an eight-point game and this week the Blues have Mitiamo at home, one my crystal ball has produced a firm vision of final siren jubilation for Inglewood
That joy around 5 o’clock on a Saturday will elude Maiden Gully for another week when Newbridge gets its first points of the season
The Riverside Boys promised so much in the opening round, have had a few tough assignments and now meets the Eagles. The Maroons have shown glimpses that say they won’t keep losing all the time. Top tier they are not but the growing pressure style will be too much for Maiden Gully.
A win for the Maroons will put an even bigger smile on the dials of the Holland boys coming from gate duties to their favoured spot on the boundary to watch the last quarter or two.
AFL has appointed a club development lead officer to build capacity of volunteers.
AFL Central Victoria says Jake DeAraugo will start in the new position at the end May.
His task is to build capacity of volunteers and assist them in performing key duties whilst building self-sufficiency in clubs.
DeAraugo was previously cricket manager for the Northern Rivers and Mallee Murray region with Cricket Victoria. He worked with Upper Loddon association in that role on club development, governance, strategic planning, safeguarding children, grants, volunteer recognition, coach and teacher development, participation growth and stakeholder relationships.
“We want clubs to be safe, welcoming, and enjoyable environments and are thrilled to soon deploy a direct resource to support our hard-working club volunteers throughout the Central Victoria region,” said the AFL’s Cameron Tomlins.
THE search has started to find a new executive officer of Loddon Valley Football Netball League.
AFL Central Victoria last week announced it was receiving applications for the role.
Laura Naughton is expected to finish in the position within weeks after earlier this year being apppointed to Loddon Shire staff.
AFL Central Victoria says applications for the part-time position will close next Monday.
I’ve swallowed plenty of brave pills this season - at times to the detriment of good tipping, why even the Editor did better than me last weekend.
But I’m going on hard form in saying Bridgewater will not have a successful journey down the Calder to the Panther Patch this week.
Bridgewater is up a couple of cogs. Yet even with forays into the midfield by Lachlan Sharp, will struggle to match its with Marong’s engine room across the centre.
Marong can thank the skill and system between half back and half forward its the ongoing undefeated run. No reason for that to change just yet.
Bears Lagoon Serpentine will face an early challenge from the dogmatic Demons on Saturday ... until the more powerful Bears slip into gear.
And while I’m banging on about pressure, we’re closer to a surprise defeat for Marong. Mid-season is my tip
- GLENN CATTO
Calivil 2.1 4.1 5.1 5.1 (31)
Marong 4.3 8.8 14.10 19.14 (128)
GOALS - Calivil: B. Baker 2, C. Thompson, A. Dennis, J. Lea. Marong: R. Wellington 6, J. McCaig, N. McCaig, K. Robins, M. Riordan 2, K. Terrill, Z. Turnbull, M. Grant, L. Lee, N. Devanny.
BEST - Calivil: J. Maher, S. Maher, S. Green, K. Shelton, T. Harcourt, L. Fisher. Marong: C. Hale, T. Davies, R. Wellington, L. Lee, N. Devanny, B. Gregg
Mitiamo 0.0 3.0 3.0 4.3 (27) Pyramid Hill 8.6 15.7 20.15 28.21 (189)
GOALS - Mitiamo: L. Shiell, R. Duncan, S. Wright, K. Galvin. Pyramid Hill: B. Scott 6, Z. Alford 5, D. Hemphill 3, S. Gunther, Z. Dingwall, B. Ladson, S. Relouw 2, B. George, B. Morison, J. Cowling, D. Collis, T. McGregor, B. Knight.
BEST - Mitiamo: Z. Morrison, D. Walters, L. Lougoon, A. Lloyd, L. Shiell, J. Falls. Pyramid Hill Seniors: B. Ladson, Z. Alford, B. George, Z. Dingwall, S. Mann, D. Hemphill. Maiden Gully 3.2 4.5 7.6 10.8 (68) Inglewood 4.4 10.7 14.8 19.10 (124)
GOALS - Maiden Gully: W. Farrer 5, D. Phyland 3, B. Franzini, R. Strauch. Inglewood: M. Conlan 5, K. Payne, A. Lister 3, M. Rowe, L. Harris 2, T. Kilcullen, J. Barnett, W. Allen, D. Polack.
BEST - Maiden Gully: E. Crisp, B. Franzini, G. Brown, R. Strauch, W. Farrer, D. Phyland. Inglewood Seniors: W. Allen, D. Polack, M. Conlan, M. Rowe, L. Matheson, A. Lister.
Bridgewater 5.3 7.8 9.10 13.12 (90)
BL Serpentine 2.0 3.5 8.7 9.10 (64)
GOALS - Bridgewater: A. Collins 5, L. Sharp 3, D. Wood, H. Donegan, L. Coghlan, B. Alexander, B. Derrick. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Mellington 4, C. Gadsden, J. Bailey, R. Turner, C. Draper, J. Rippingale.
BEST - Bridgewater: B. Alexander, J. Neylon, J. Mayes, A. Collins, X. Walsh, J. Coghlan. Bears Lagoon Serpentine Seniors: T. Miles, F. Priest, J. Laird, R. Prendergast, D. Nihill, J. Podosky.
Marong 5 5 0 0 0 310.85 20
Inglewood
Pyramid Hill
GOALS - Inglewood: K. McClellan 8, B. Coffey, R. Smith, J. Luckman 2, R. Murphy, T. Murphy, D. Gilbee. Pyramid Hill: Not supplied. BEST - Inglewood: K. McClellan, J. Luckman, T. Murphy, W. Schepers, E. McCoy, R. Smith. Pyramid Hill: Not supplied
Bridgewater
East Loddon
(37)
(76)
GOALS - Bridgewater: T. Hetherton 2, M. Brown, C. Larson, O. Clapp. East Loddon: R. Wagner, A. Roulston, F. Clymo 2, T. Rasmussen, T. Tweed, B. Dowton, K. Maxted, M. Hocking .
BEST - Bridgewater: A. Frankling, J. Hetherton, J. Larson, T. Pidoto, C. Orton, Z. Morton. East Loddon: L. Stephens, A. Roulston, C. Tuohey, T. Rasmussen, I. Johnstone-McCloud.
Mitiamo
(13)
Pyramid Hill 9.0 16.3 20.8 27.11 (173)
GOALS - Mitiamo: H. Danziger, C. Milne. Pyramid Hill: K. Humphrys 6, N. Moon, D. Reid, T. Walker 3, R. Delamare, B. Gibson, D. Lovell 2, T. Boyer, P. Walker, D. Mitchell, S. Donat, J. Douch, G. Quinn. BEST - Mitiamo: J. Doherty, J. Pianto, H. Danziger, K. Pentreath, N. Hicks, C. Milne. Pyramid Hill: T. Walker, B. Driscoll, D. Lovell, M. Moon, K. Humphrys, G. Quinn.
Bridgewater 4.3 4.6 6.9 7.11 (53)
BL Serpentine 0.0 0.2 3.2 5.4 (34)
GOALS - Bridgewater: J. Campbell, J. Roberts 2, T. Naughton, O. Muggleton, K. Lukies. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Murley 2, Z. Hollis, C. Anstee, J. Wingrave. BEST - Bridgewater: A. Gauci, T. Naughton, Z. Hoiles, A. O’Connor-Stubbs, N. Hall, J. Campbell. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: A. Edwards, J. Wingrave, C. Tuohey, D. Tineo, C. Davies, L. Murley.
Calivil
Marong
(24)
(128)
GOALS - Calivil: D. Howard, D. Ryan, D. Dennis. Marong: D. Blume 5, J. Scott 3, T. Grant, R. Gretgrix, F. Stewart 2, H. Gray, B. Langridge, A. Collins, J. Evenden, L. Jongebloed. BEST - Calivil: C. Anderson, S. Fawcett, T. Piazza, F. Clymo, D. Howard, T. Atherton. Marong: T. Grant, S. Taylor, F. Stewart, M. Lowery, D. Blume, S. Taylor.
Maiden Gully
Inglewood
(19)
(99)
GOALS - Maiden Gully: C. Sungalis 2, H. Devanny. Inglewood: J. Leach 5, S. Erharter 4, J. Purdy, T. Kendal 2, D. Gorrie, J. Smith.
BEST - Maiden Gully: H. Devanny, K. Kerrison, B. Jones, K. Griffin, J. Pickering, J. Brown. Inglewood: S. Gorrie, D. Hogan, J. Lovett, D. Gorrie, T. Kendal, J. Rouse.
Charlton
Birchip Watchem
GOALS - St Arnaud: J. Kell 6, Z. Notting, G. Doyle. Donald: B. Burke, J. Donnellon, G. Beckham, W. Noble, J. Smulders, E. Clapham.
BEST - St Arnaud: J. Summers, J. Kell, Z. Notting, S. Elliott, D. Casey, S. Penfold. Donald: D. Gowlett, E. Landwehr, N. Clark, J. Dixon, D. Hollis, B. Burke.
GOALS - Charlton: T. Bates 3, P. Sait, E. Needs, D. Roberts, A. Judd 2, B. Roberts. Birchip Watchem: M. Berry 4, T. Wiantara, J. Ryan, D. Ferrier 2, T. Jones, B. Colbert. BEST - Charlton: B. Roberts, D. Roberts, T. Salmon, P. Sait, J. Olive, M. Thompson. Birchip Watchem: J. Woods, A. Dean, A. Noonan, M. Rickard, N. Ryan.
GOALS - Sea Lake: Z. Wemyss, P. Roberts, H. Harcourt, B. Poulton. Nullawil: A. Oberdorfer 8, L. Cooper, M. Barry, J. Perry.
BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: H. McClelland, J. Trewick, J. Clohesy, Z. Wemyss, Z. Martin, C. Elliott. Nullawil: A. Oberdorfer, D. Kelly, J. Coghlan, A. Forrester, J. Vearing, T. Fawcett.
(132)
(7)
GOALS - Boort: C. O’Rourke, M. O’Donoghue 6, K. Streader 2, C. Keanelly, D. Hatcher, E. Lanyon, A. Chamberlain, M. Buchanan. Wycheproof Narraport: C. Anderson. BEST - Boort: S. Barraclough, A. Chamberlain, D. Hatcher, C. O’Rourke, H. Weaver, M. O’Donoghue. Wycheproof Narraport Reserves: R. Jones, T. Mason, K. Butcher, D. Murray, W. Ringin, W. Rodda.
(42)
(157)
GOALS - Charlton: C. Gavaghan 3, D. McCallum, M. Collins. Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 8, N. Rippon 5, J. Reid 3, M. Buchanan, D. Reid 2, L. Foott, M. Rippon. BEST - Not supplied.
Sea Lake Nandaly
(99) Nullawil
(71)
GOALS - Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Jenkins 9, B. McInnes 2, A. Pattison, W. Donnan, T. Cox, T. McKenzie. Nullawil: M. Farmer, J. Exell 3, N. Grigg, A. Thomson, D. Isbister, N. Keogh.
BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Jenkins, L. Martin, L. McClelland, M. Cahoon, W. Donnan, C. Tait. Nullawil: D. Putt, M. Wade, L. Caccaviello, D. Isbister, J. Exell, M. Quigley.
Boort
Wycheproof N
(74)
(72)
GOALS - Boort: J. Bel2, T. Potter 2, W. Perryman, N. McLaren, J. Fitzpatrick, F. Holland, E. Coleman, J. BaddeleyKelly, J. Keeble. Wycheproof Narraport: M. Trzeciak 5, N. Grabowski 4, M. Murgov.
UnDer 14
BEST - Boort: J. Keeble, J. Bell, T. Potter, J. Baddeley-Kelly, J. Wilson, J. Byrne. Wycheproof Narraport: T. Trewin, M. Trzeciak, N. Grabowski, S. Allan, T. Rumbold, D. Bibby. St Arnaud
Donald 5.3
(50)
(94)
GOALS - St Ar naud: J. Hicks 3, M. Egan 2, J. Tillig, B. Phillips. Donald: T. Grant 5, D. Kerr 3, B. Grant, J. Potter 2, R. Barrack, C. Anderson.
BEST - St Arnaud: M. Egan, T. Myers, B. Phillips, K. Torney, S. Driscoll, O. Lowe. Donald: R. Hards, D. Kerr, A. Browne, T. Grant, B. Grant, H. Geddes
Thursday May 16, 2024
LODDON Valley football goal kicking sensation Josh Mellington’s career was in the balance last night.
Mellington was fronting the tribunal to contest a report for striking in Saturday’s round.
The Bears Lagoon Serpentine spearhead was booked by umpires in the first quarter of the clash against Bridgewater and opted to go straight to the tribunal.
Mellington, the former Fremantle Docker who crossed to Janiember Park this season from Goulburn Valley club Benalla, has already been scrubbed out for 14 matches in his career.
A two-week suspension would take his tally to 16 games and see Mellington’s automatically deregistered as a player under AFL rules.
He had been offered a onematch early plea penalty after Saturday’s incident.
Serpentine opted to go to the tribunal after reviewing video footage of the incident.
Mellington has taken Loddon Valley football by storm, kicking 45 goals in the first five rounds.
He was yellow carded on Saturday and finished with just four goals as Bears Lagoon Serpentine went down to the Mean Machine by 26 points.
Bridgewater’s Lachlan Sharp, Mellington’s early rival for the goal kicking award, finished the day with three goals.
It was the second consecutive loss for the Bears against another of the “top four” sides. They were within reach of reigning premiers Marong until half time the previous week before the Panthers broke clear to win by 38 points.
Pyramid Hill is the other side again clearly cementing itself in the upper echelon.
Despite early losses to Marong and Bears Lagoon Serpentine, the Bulldogs put their season on track with a massive victory of Bridgewater and followed up last Saturday with four points at the expense of Mitiamo.
Mellington was recruited by the Dockers from Murray Bushrangers in 2010 and made six senior appearances.
Josh Mellington remonstrates with the umpire after being yellow-carded on Saturday. AP PHOTOS