Loddon Herald 18 January 2024

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Loddon HERALD Vol 4 No 1, THURSDAY JANUARY 18, 2024 ISSN 2653-1550

STOCK HORROR 102 not out: Celebrating Lloyd’s top innings - PAGE 21

Agriculture Victoria launches investigation into farm animal cruelty claims - PAGE 3

The floods: Drainage despair, clean-up - PAGES 8-10

156 Tragowel Road Tragowel For lease by Tender EXISTING HAY & FODDER FARM - TERM OF ONE YEAR ONLY 358.15 Hectares equalling 885 Acres

Irrigation layout to approximately 17 paddocks. (Water not included). Soil is Tragowel cracking loams Zone 7, 2 reuse dams, 3.01 Delivery shares Improvements available include: 2 Cement brick homes (both in fair repair), 24m x 12m Machinery shed with workshop, 2 car garage, Old Machinery shed.

Terms: One year lease with possible extension of another one-year lease. Payment ¼ in advance Lease to include plus Rates plus GST. Lease Commences 1st March 2024 Finishing 28th February 2025

Expression of interest closes: Friday 9th February 2024

FP NEVINS DOES NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ABOVE

2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

IN BRIEF

Loddon HERALD

Masonic scholarships CENTRAL Goldfields Masonic Group has awarded 19 scholarships to primary school students across the region. Among graduating Year 6 students to receive the scholarships were Jack Kloester (Inglewood), Lily Finch (Wedderburn), Marcus Wheater (Tarnagulla), Jarred McWilliams (Bealiba) and Mia Schodde (Dunolly).

Free every Thursday

Circulating in the communities and districts of Boort, Bridgewater, Dingee, Inglewood, Korong Vale, Mitiamo, Newbridge, Laanecoorie, Pyramid Hill, Serpentine, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn.

Also available in Dunolly, Charlton, Wycheproof, Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat, Golden Square and Eaglehawk.

Town reunions

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REUNIONS for former residents of Wedderburn and Pyramid Hill are being planned. The Wedderburn get-together will be in Melbourne on February 24 while a gathering for former Pyramid Hill residents will be held in Bendigo on the weekend of March 2 and 3. The Wedderburn reunion will be the 99th gathering held in Melbourne.

Chris Rothacker presents father Don with a certificate marking 50 years as a member of the reserve committee.

Half a century of service WEEKEND FORECAST Party cloudy Saturday 29, Sunday 32 Boort Inglewood Saturday 29, Sunday 32 Pyramid Hill Saturday 30, Sunday 34 Wedderburn Saturday 29, Sunday 32 Saturday 27, Sunday 31 Dunolly Charlton Saturday 29, Sunday 33

DON Rothacker has been honoured for 50 years of service to the Mysia Recreation Reserve committee.

Mr Rothacker was presented with a certificate marking the occasion at last month’s Mysia Christmas tree.

He joined the committee in 1973 and had served as both secretary and treasurer.

Mr Rothacker’s commitment and consistency of service is echoed through generations of his family.

His father Arthur was on the committee from 1950 until his death. Don’s wife Margaret joined the committee in 1995 and his son Chris joined in 2000 and is now the group’s president.

Mr Rothacker is a former student of the Mysia War Memorial school.

Committee member Susan Gould thanked Mr Rothacker during the presentation, highlighting his reliability, kindness and his commitment to Mysia despite the challenges of population loss.

First talks for 2024 LODDON Shire councillors meet on Tuesday for their first meeting of 2024. The agenda of items to be discussed is expected to be released today.

“Don has always generously welcomed new residents, and so it is fitting that his replacement as treasurer is Dave Skinner, who had brought new ideas and skills to the community.”

The district’s Christmas tree was well attended.

“The Christmas tree was a special night for families and neighbours to celebrate the festive season and welcome Santa, who generously came to visit in his header despite being very busy harvesting barley.” Susan said.

New Year time THE historic Pyramid Hill clock is ticking again after new mechanisms were installed over the ChristmasNew Year period. The town raised $7000 to purchase replacement parts from a Sydney manufacturer.

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Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 3

Farm cruelty probe

By CHRIS EARL REPORTS to Agriculture Victoria have triggered a probe into alleged stock neglect at a Newbridge farm.

Agriculture Victoria confirmed it has launched an investigation after people travelling the Wimmera Highway at Christmas took photographs of dead sheep in paddocks with no grass cover.

Allegations of overstocking and lack of feed have been made about Avicenna Farm, on the corner of Wimmera Highway and Church Road.

Photographs taken from the roadside on Christmas Day and again last weekend have been provided to the department. One shows an uncovered sheep in a pit with an excavator nearby.

Agriculture Victoria last Thursday night confirmed the investigation.

“Agriculture Victoria is aware of the allegation and the matter is currently under investigation.

Agriculture Victoria takes animal welfare very seriously and responds to all allegations received in accordance with the legislation and departmental procedures.”

“All complaints received by the department are taken seriously and investigated as appropriate in accordance with departmental procedures.”

One district resident told the Loddon Herald: “These animals have had no food ... and are now dropping dead in this crazy rain.

“I am sad that this may impact

The Newbridge farm last weekend. LH PHOTO real farming families in the area.

This is so sad,” they said.

The investigation comes after a series of alleged incidents at the farm over the past two months about management practices.

The 246-hectare property has been owned by Western Fruit and Vegetables, Tarneit, since October 2021. with Trustworthy Nominees Pty Ltd listed as the mortgagee.

Online searches have shown Avicenna Farms is part of a sheep

farming and breeding program

by Singapore-based HalalXpert Pte Ltd, Wonderz Pty Ltd and Malaysia-based ARK Group of Companies Pte Ltd. Wonderz is registered at a Mickelham address with its only listed director living in Malaysia.

Avicenna’s telephone number is the same as the Queenslandbased Halal Centre Australia.

However that number comes up with a “incoming call restriction” message when called.

Dozens of trees cleared near fence LODDON Shire Council has started its own investigation into the removal of trees from Avicenna Farm.

Dozens of trees bordering Church Road have been pulled from the ground and are laying in paddocks, metres from the unsigned electric fences around the property where bales of hay are sitting atop shipping containers and paddocks are strewn with empty bags and container pallets.

Clumps of rocks have also been cleared

in some sections of the paddocks and put into several piles.

A council spokesperson said: “Council officers have been on site and are investigating removal of native vegetation without a planning permit. The matter is ongoing, no fines have been issued.”

The Wimmera highway property is bounded by other grazing and cropping farms. and was purchased by the present owners in 2021, according to title searches.

Man charged after summer fire at property A MAN has been charged with allegedly lighting a fire during a prohibited period at Avicenna Farms, Newbridge, last month.

Local fire brigades were called to the farm. Bridgewater’s Leading Senior Constable Mick Balazs said charges had been laid and would be heard at a future court sitting.

Fire restrictions have been in place across the Loddon Shire since November 13. A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the restriction period.

Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and up to 12 months jail.

Calls to HalalXpert failed and Loddon Herald emails to the overseas businesses have not been answered.

Ark Public Farm describes itself as a “Halal competency development specialist”.

“Over the past 20 years, we have provided total halal solution to food establishments, processing plants, and ingredients suppliers, as well as importers, exporters and abattoirs,” the company says.

The company seeks investors in its “public farm program (that) offers you the chance to participate on a large-scale, a sheep farming venture.

“Our Melbourne farm in Australia sits on 860-acres land. Our farm is solely dedicated to raising sheep, fattening them and trading. Trading of the matured sheep is to generate returns for our customers.”

Goats feeding on unopened bags of potatoes and cattle have also been seen on the Newbridge property in the past month.

Agriculture Victoria says it assesses each animal cruelty investigation for the most appropriate regulatory outcome, ranging from voluntary compliance and education to warning and infringement notices and finally prosecutions for serious matters.

“A prosecution will only proceed if it is determined that there is a reasonable prospect of a conviction and that a prosecution is in the public interest,” the backgrounder said.

IN BRIEF Season best MITIAMO was one of seven Graincorp sites to set receival records this season. In its final update, Graincorp said best-ever seasons were recorded Elmore, Murchison East, Mitiamo, Quambatook, Rainbow, Speed and Nhill.

The Southern Mallee cluster together received the most grain ever this season. More than four million tonnes was delivered in Victoria.

National tour PYRAMID Hill will today be announced as a venue for the 2024 national Festival of Small Halls tour. The tour will feature Icelandic singer and songwriter Svava Knútur and Australia duo The Maes. The Loddon Herald will have more details next week.

New weekly feature THE Loddon Herald today introduces a new weekly spot in its feature pages the Bushy Tales comic strip by cartoonist Ian Jones.

The creator of Pearly Gates, Jones’ work has been published in Australia and overseas for more than 40 years.

Memorial walk THE second annual walk in memory of Salisbury West teenager Bella Canfield, killed in a road accident in 2022, will be held in Bridgewater on Saturday raising funds for first responder charity Code 9 Foundation.

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 5

Hands up to keep SES unit WEDDERBURN residents have emphatically voiced support to inject new life into the town’s dormant State Emergency Service Unit.

More than 30 residents put the hands up at a community meeting on Monday night when asked whether the unit was wanted in the town Many later spoke with SES staff and volunteers about signing up for membership and training that could see the unit regain operational status within six months.

Support for the unit has been heightened following summer storm floods across the region since Christmas Day with some residents whose homes were damaged among those discussing membership.

The SES brought crews from Bendigo and Melbourne to assist with flood work.

Western region deputy chief officer Simon White and regional operations manager Brad Dalgleish were grilled on the unit’s troubled history that saw several members resign last year.

But Mr White said: “We can’t change the past, we need to talk about the future. The absolute truth is that Wedderburn needs an SES unit ... there is history and we need to learn from that.”

Mr Dalgleish said a minimum eight trained people were needed for the unit to be functional but he was aiming for 10 or 12 members.

“We want to concentrate on road rescue training for Wedderburn,” he said.

Local unit volunteer Shane Lidgerwood told the meeting:

Fast drivers frustrate local police DRIVERS must take more care on roads after six were caught speeding in the district over the holiday season

by Bridgewater policeman Mick Balazs.

“I have processed six drivers in excess of 125kmh. two of them 140-plus and one at 130kmh who was more than twice the legal alcohol limit,” he said.

Senior Constable Balazs said the 38-year-old Melbourne man travelling at 130kmh had a blood alcohol reading of 0.12 and would also face an unregistered vehicle charge, “We had three die on Victorian roads on Sunday on the back of a horrific road toll in 2023,” he said.

“This is a timely reminder to drivers from police to take care during the holiday periods.”

Doors smashed

SES deputy chief officer Simon White addresses the Wedderburn community on Monday night. LH PHOTO “We need you and so does the community.”

Former member Di Gordon Cooke said the unit had been part of the town and shire for more than 30 years.

She called on SES staff to acknowledge past services and “please respect the people you are getting in to get the unit back up”. “Build up the foundation and

don’t forget what has been done before.”

Keith Lewis, who has been a member of the unit, said volunteers had previously not been allowed to use their initiative and claimed Wedderburn members had been unfairly treated by the SES regional office in Bendigo.

Former deputy controller Reg Holt, who quit as a member last

year after more than 25 years, said oversight of Wedderburn should be transferred to the Ballarat SES unit.

Mr Dalgliesh said that without a Wedderburn unit, the closest SES response teams were 45 minutes away from the district.

“We need the local community to step up and volunteer,” Mr Dalgleish said.

POLICE are investigating break-ins at two Pyramid Hill businesses.

The town’s post office and bakery-cafe were hit about 4.30am New Year’s Eve. Damage to the post office door has seen the business on reduced hours on hot days while repairs are completed.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

VNI West project gets northern shop front TRANSMISSION Company Victoria will open its new northern office to the public for 11 hours a week.

The Kerang shop front will be at the northern end of the high capacity 500 kV double-circuit overhead transmission running from Stawell.

VNI West project director Sam Magee said “We hope that the regional office will provide an additional avenue for the local community and landholders in the draft corridor to find out more about the project and speak directly with the project team.

“The office will initially operate until the end of March. If landholders and communities find it useful, we will look at extending the initial lease, and consider opening a second office at another site within the draft corridor.”

The office will open two days a week.

Land access licence bid still to be submitted

AN APPLICATION for a licence to access land on the controversial VNI West renewable energy transmission line route is still to be lodged with the State Government.

A spokesperson for Transmission Company Victoria, the Australian Energy Market Operator’s project entity, this week said a licence would “support its work in regards to land access, planning and environment approvals”.

“If in the future, TCV is granted a licence it may be able to access land under section

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Peter Walsh MP We are in this together, and together we will get through.

496 High Street, Echuca 3564 Tel: 5482 2039 or 1300 467 906 E: peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au

We are in this together, and together we will get through.

Peter Walsh MP 496 High Street, Echuca 3564 Tel: 5482 2039 or 1300 467 906 E: peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au Peter Walsh MP 496 High Street, Echuca 3564 Tel: 5482 2039 or 1300 467 906 E: peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au

93 of the Electricity Industry Act 2000 (Vic) however our strong preference is to work with landholders to agree on land access arrangements,” they said.

AEMO first flagged applying for the licence last year when anger erupted among landowners between Stawell and Kerang to the VNI West draft route that runs through northern areas of the Loddon Shire.

VNI West project manager Sam Magee said TCV would soon commence the regulatory planning and approvals process.

The spokesperson said this week that discussions with landowners on options for easement access compensation had not started.

“TCV’s landholder liaisons started talking with landholders in the draft corridor in August to build our understanding of how properties across this narrowed area are being utilised and farmed,” they said.

“These conversations are our best chance to find a route for VNI West with the least impact on farming and communities.”

Initial aerial surveys for the draft corridor were completed in November and the first surveys have been completed on public road reserves.

“However, there are several remaining survey activities yet to occur. Survey activity will continue to take place in the coming years as TCV progresses the planning and approvals process,” the spokesperson said.

“The data collected during the environmental surveys will form part of the impact assessments, these will be available for public review and comment as a part of the planning and approvals process.

“If the minister designates that an environmental effect study is required, there will be formal opportunities for the community to make submissions and engage in the process.”

TCV this month said it had purchased land at Tragowel for a future VNI West transmission station.

“Subject to planning and environmen-

tal approvals, the 360-hectare site is proposed as the location for a new terminal station required as part of the VNI West transmission project. VNI West is a project to build a new transmission line between Victoria and New South Wales.

“It will harness clean, low-cost electricity from renewable energy zones in both states and improve the reliability and security of electricity supply as our ageing coal-fired power stations retire. Construction on this site cannot commence until all appropriate environmental and planning approvals are obtained, and would not begin before 2026.

“The land purchase does not pre-empt the location of the final easement for the transmission line, which will be determined through the planning and assessment processes and in consultation with landholders, farmers, Traditional Owners and communities.

“TCV is committed to minimising the impacts of the proposed terminal station and will work closely with near neighbours and the local community through the planning and approvals process. We have made it a priority to notify neighbours and local landholders of the land purchase and TCV will hold further information sessions in the area to talk to the local community and answer their questions.”

The spokeperson said a detailed technical study including analysis of historical data related to flooding and any impacts to neighbouring properties to the station site would be undertaken as part of the environmental assessment and approvals process. “As part of due diligence to confirm the initial suitability of the terminal station site, we conducted technical and environmental assessments. This work included an initial assessment of environmental sensitivities such as groundwater and flooding,” they said.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government had vetoed an offshore wind strategy the State Government says is critical to Victoria’s green energy targets.

Ward boundary review starts next month VICTORIAN Electoral Commission will starts its review of Loddon Shire ward boundaries next month.

The commission confirmed on Monday that February 21 will signal the formal start of assessing the boundaries of Boort, Inglewood, Tarnagulla, Terrick and Wedderburn wards.

“We will be hosting information sessions ahead of that date, to explain the process – keep an eye on our website for the precise dates/times,” said communications manager Marie Guerin.

Ms Guerin said the commission did not

have any plans to promote the information sessions locally, instead choosing “state-wide ads in major daily newspapers to promote all 10 councils undergoing a review”.

The review has been triggered by changes in ward populations with at least one ward now having more or less than 10 per cent of the enrolment average.

Draft new boundaries are expected to be decided within three months before they are sent to the State Government for approval. New boundaries will apply at local government elections in October.

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 7

Cash in on great local flavours

CEO Dallas Coghill, Ripon MP Martha Haylett, clinical and community services director April McKenzie and board member Anne-Maree Davis inspect new facilities yesterday morning. LH PHOTO

Doors open to new facilities INGLEWOOD and Districts Health Service’s new rehabilitation gymnasium and student accommodation building are ready for use.

CEO Dallas Coghill said the $2.4 million project would improve access to strength training, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and podiatry services.

And he again welcomed the new accommodation facilities for medical and health students on placement and training at Inglewood.

Mr Coghill said the facilities would also assist with recruitment of staff for the service.

Work was completed on the new building before Christmas and equipment installed before yesterday morning’s announcement that the health service upgrades had been completed.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett said new facilities would improve local health care for Inglewood and other Loddon communities.

The new allied health precinct coincides

with completion of the health service’s outdoor environment redevelopment project that has seen construction of an outdoor kitchen, pathways, landscaping and dementia-friendly facilities.

The State Government has described the completed projects at Inglewood as state-ofthe-art.

Mr Coghill said the gymnasium, financed through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund, would open shortly.

NOLENS PARK will be transformed into a dining court with the inaugural Flavours of Loddon Boort Festival on the Australia Day weekend.

The four-hour festival from 5pm on January 27 will promote Loddon food vans, wineries and breweries.

And Boort residents can claim a $25 voucher before next Wednesday to sample the tastes of Loddon while listening to music in the premiere performance from jazz trio The Date Clark band.

“After success at the Inglewood Alive Festival and the Wedderburn Community House Christmas on High, Flavours of Loddon is coming to Boort,” said Flavours of Loddon food van operator Anne Marie Davis.

“The festival will showcase our local food trucks, food businesses at the event and around town, and producers.”

The festival will have a gold coin donation entry with funds raised going to Boort Pre-School.

“The festival is an exciting collaboration with Boort Resource and Information Centre and the support of Visit Loddon Valley, Foundation for Regional and Rural Renewal and Northern District Community Health,” she said.

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

THE SUMMER STORMS

Community hails rescue volunteers

A MAN was treated in hospital for hypothermia after a dramatic rescue from the swollen Nardoo Creek in Wedderburn.

His vehicle was pushed more than 500 metres by swirling flash floods two days into 2024 - the second storm dump on the town in eight days.

Local off-duty police sergeant Ben Huisman and CFA volunteers waded through raging water with safety harnesses to rescue the man about 7pm.

The Wedderburn man, aged 60, had driven into the torrent crossing Tantalla Street an hour earlier with video footage by local teenager Dylan Caruana showing the moment the man’s car was turned by the torrent and propelled down the creek before stopping near Chapel Street, two blocks away.

Sgt Huisman said the creek level had been steadily rising when he arrived.

“Then all of a sudden there was a surge and the water level rose six inches,” he said, “That was enough to lift the car ... once it lifted it went down the creek at least 400 metres, almost to Chapel Street.”

That’s when Sgt Huisman said electric cars

Cars and water a bad mix THE REGION had five water rescues in a week as the first storms caused havoc from Christmas Day. SES crews responded to 39 requests for assistance including fallen trees, 18 properties flooded by water and five water rescues and most were in the Wedderburn district.

But it was rescues from cars stranded on flooded roads that concerned the SES and police.

And among the vehicles caught were electric cars, some making it through water only to lose power metres later. Police have told the Loddon Herald the aerodynamic design of electric cars can suck water into the vehicle and make contact with lithium batteries.

Electric charging points in the Loddon Shire have had an increase in use over the past year. Statitistics from Loddon Shire show the Inglewood station had a total of 432 charges and Wedderburn 141.

Newbridge remains the least-used charging station, barely averaging one charge a week. There was a total of 65 sessions for the year.

Emergency services continue to repeat calls not to drive through floodwaters.

the community kicked in. His wife Gabby was on the creek bank, encouraging the driver to climb on the roof of his Ford Territory.

“I kept telling him to hold on and to keep breathing,” she said.

The man’s dog swam to the creek bank where Sgt Huisman, and Andrew Roberts were being fitted with safety equipment, the ropes gripped firmly by Matthew Tansley, Scott Cunningham and his 15-year-old son Will.

Sgt Huisman and Mr Roberts were waist-deep in water. “And it was flowing,” Sgt Huisman said.

“Andrew and I carried the man out of the water ... it was a real community effort.”

Sgt Huisman said the man had been lucky that vehicle did not flip when it was pushed into the creek at Tantalla Street.

“That was sheer luck,” he said.

“Once we rescued the man, the car kept floating and then became submerged apart from a few centimetres of the aerial.”

The off-duty sergeant had been dressed in basketball shorts and singlet when he arrived at the scene. “I went back to the station, grabbed a radio and everything happened from there. We were

Rescuers: Gabby and Ben Huisman, Andrew Roberts, Matthew Tansley, Will and Scott Cunningham. LH PHOTO all (the rescue team) in shorts and T-shirts or singlets.”

Witnesses to the dramatic rescue have hailed the six - Scott Cunningham and his 16-year-old son Will, Matthew Tansley, Andrew Roberts, Ben and Gabby Huisman - as local heroes who were guided from the side by SES volunteers from St Arnaud and Bendigo.- and called for their heroic efforts to be recognised.

“I really appreciate the efforts of everyone involved, especially the locals. It was about community getting together to save a local,” Sgt Huisman said.

The rescued man was taken by ambulance to Bendigo hospital.

The rescue was one of at least four during the afternoon and evening. At the northern end of Wedderburn, Cass Reeves saw the first car become stranded on

Calder Highway as the Nardoo Creek near her property reached similar heights to Christmas Day and then a second just 30 minutes later.

Another vehicle was pulled from the creek in Wedderburn as flood waters kept pushing towards Korong Vale where homes were also being hit for a second time in days.

CFA volunteers were frantically filling sandbags in Wedderburn and trucked them over to Korong Vale before the full brunt of fresh flash flooding hit, among the volunteers helping was Will Cunningham.

Some homes in both Wedderburn and Korong Vale that had been flooded on Christrmas Day had water go through them again.

Roads across the region were cut throughout the afternoon and

late into the night, from near Tarnagulla in the south to key routes linking with Pyramid Hill in the north.

Widespread power blackouts saw hundreds of properties without electricity with some some still for restoration of supplies.

Most areas received about 80mm of rain to 5pm with more falls into the night. Wedderburn had now received more than 250mm of rain since December 24.

The flooding saw people travelling the Calder Highway stranded in Wedderburn. The town’s community house opened its doors for people wanting a temporary refuge and assisted with accommodation for the night.

The SES meeting in Wedderburn on Monday was told the the service is reviewing its operations around the flood rescue.

Shire counts cost of summer drenching

WEDDERBURN and Korong Vale have copped the brunt of summer flooding in the Loddon Shire.

Storms overnight Christmas Eve, on January 2 and again on January 8 have damaged homes, buildings and roads.

Floodwaters are still receding around Boort and Pyramid Hill where pumps are keeping water out of the towns and at Mitamo and Dingee.

Loddon Shire wellbeing director Wendy Gladman said council was still collecting information from people impacted by the floods She said an early assessment included: 17 properties had water over floor level - 15 in Wedderburn and two in Korong Vale; Many residents in the townships and on rural lifestyle blocks in the area also had water impact on shedding, gardens, fencing, and private road access; Early estimates of fencing losses were 100km of damaged or destroyed fencing in an area from Fentons Creek to Borung; Other damage noted by primary produc-

ers includes unharvested crops, water seepage into grain bag storage, lost field bins, feed loss (including hay and pasture) and soil erosion; and There had been some reports of stock losses, or stock being unable to be located in small numbers.

“Council is still accepting calls from people who would like to provide information on damages to property as a result of the storm/ flood event.

“Council is also keen to hear from residents and farmers in the East Loddon and Pyramid Hill areas who have recently been impacted by the Bendigo, Bullock and other flooded creek/river systems following the January 7 and 8 rainfall event,” Ms Gladman said.

Pyramid Hill’s Victoria Hotel was hit with flooding twice during the summer deluges.

And the cost of road repairs will leave the council with a bill of several million dollars, according to operations director Steve Phillips.

“Officers are still assessing council’s infra-

structure for damage. There are still road closures in parts of the shire as the water drains through on its way north,” Mr Phillips said.

“An initial assessment indicates that the impact is not as great as October 2022 – although in many cases there is further damage to existing locations.

“Council has notified the State Government of its intention to make a claim under the Disaster Recovery Assistance Program to support the restoration works required following this recent event.

“It is still too early to estimate a dollar figure of the impact to Council’s drainage and road networks – it is however, likely to be several million dollars.”

Loddon Shire daily update of road closures for VicTraffic is being provided to the Loddon Herald and placed on our website each afternoon.

Some gravels roads in the southern, central and northern areas of the shire are still floodaffected while new closures this week have been in the Yando district.

Region battered by storms and winds over 12 days

THE highest December rainfall on record has been recorded for Wedderburn.

The 175mm tipped from the official gauage at the town’s post office topped the 130.5mm recorded in 1938 and eclipsed the record of 141mm set in 1885, according to Bureau of Meterology figures.

The cummulative reading was listed for December 25, 26 and 27 of 155mm. Wedderburn’s total for 2023 was 588.4mm The town was listed as measur-

ing another 61.4mm on January 3 and 32mm on January 8.

Inglewood’s December total was 133.2mm with the Christmas period total 117.2mm. The year’s total was 539.7mm.

The second storm dumped 42mm on the town while the third on January 8 dropped 43.4mm.

Tarnagulla received 116mm on Christmas Day alone and recorded 131.4mm for the month and a year total of 514.2mm.

In Dunolly, 117mm fell at

Christmas to give a monthly total of 131.4mm and 514.2mm for the year while in Charlton 64.4mm was recorded at Christmas and 358.4mm for the year.

The Christmas storms also saw 113.4mm recorded at Boort where just another 3mm fell for December. The town finished the year with 479.6mm Falls in other northern areas of the Loddon were lighter at Christmas. Mincha had 57mm and just 58.2mm for the month.

Its 2023 total was 406.6mm.

However, falls increased throughout the first nine days of January, the highest of 48.6mm on January 8.

Daily and monthly averages for December were broken in all Loddon towns for December. The daily figures were up to six times the average.

Goulburn Murray Water data had Laanecoorie Reservoir at 83.38 per cent capacity on Tuesday.

The reservoir was at 90.75 per cent capacity this time last year.

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 9

THE SUMMER STORMS

Drainage overflow distress THREE people who have seen water gush through their homes after the summer storms are calling for better drainage in towns and along roads.

The three - in Wedderburn, Korong Vale and near Pyramid Hill say maintenance of drains needs to improve.

And they said their voices have failed to be heard, in one case for more than a decade.

SHEEP SHELTER UNDER VERANDAH JARROD Treacy was all set to move back into his home after repairs were finished before Christmas to his home on the BoortPyramid Road, near Yarrawalla, damaged in the 2022 October flood emergency.

The farm maintenance business owner, in remission from throat cancer, had new furniture and whitegoods ready to make a return to his home of more than 20 years.

Then the region’s third dump tried to push too much water through roadside culverts that Mr Treacy said had not been maintained and should have been replaced.

“Back after 2011 I was able to show insurer RACV the hydrologist report that said flooding was from a culvert problem,” he said.

“The house is a metre off the ground ... the water just came through. The septic will need to be repaired again.”

He said a neighbour’s fence was cut to allow his hobby farm sheep and cows to move to safer ground.

“They just came back through the water. The sheep sheltered under the verandah.”

Mr Treacy said there were four culverts along the road that needed to be maintained or replaced.

“One culvert was knee-deep in dirt before the floods,” he said.

It is the fourth time he has been flooded since 2011, Mr Treacy said: “This is a joke. My insurance will go through the roof and it could have been avoided.

Mr Treacy met with Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh at the weekend.

“Unfortunately, Jarrod’s problem is more man-made than an act of God. His property mostly floods because the culverts along

By CHRIS EARL his stretch of the Boort-Pyramid Road to Pyramid Hill aren’t just blocked; they are in need of major overhaul – including one which has caused the road to part collapse,” Mr Walsh said.

“He tells me his pleas to VicRoads and the government for a permanent solution to the problems have fallen on disinterested and deaf ears.

“Jarrod isn’t asking for much – beyond getting his life back,” Mr Walsh said.

DOUBLE WHAMMY AND A GYPSY FORTNIGHT YVONNE CASHEN was getting organised to cook Christmas lunch for 40 people at the Korong Vale hotel when she saw water going through her timber home.

“By 10am it was right through the house but I still went back to the pub and cooked meals for 17 people,” she said.

“I stayed at the hotel for a few days, a friend’s place and now I have had another friend lend a caravan. It’s been the life of a gypsy ... it’s a friggin nightmare.”

Yvonne had time to sandbag for the second deluge in early January, keeping water at bay, but then the third dump again pushed water into the house.

With most of her furniture damaged or destroyed and fans running almost non-stop to dry the house last week, Yvonne said she first raised concerns about drainage on the railway reserve opposite her property.

Water pushed back from the drain overgrown with grass and into her yard this year as it did in the 2010-2011 floods.

“Council asked VicTrack to reinstate the natural levy back then. That was not done.”

A V/Line spokesperson said: “We regularly conduct rail reserve maintenance across our network including fire prevention slashing, herbicide spraying and collecting illegally dumped rubbish.

“Our crews also regularly inspect and monitor drains and culverts we manage in the Korong Vale area and prioritise works if required. We completed

Jarrod Treacy has seen his hit home flood again and wants action on nearby road culverts. LH PHOTOS

CULVERT WASH AND TRUCKS CREATE WAVES

Yvonne Cashen the fire prevention slashing program in the Korong Vale area in the lead-up to summer and more slashing will be carried out if required.

A V/Line background note said: “We thank the community for their interest in the upkeep of the area.”

DRAINAGE issues on the Calder Highway at Wedderburn and trucks driving through floodwaters have Donna Richardson concerned about impacts from future storms.

The family home has been flooded twice - Christmas Day and again a week later.

Donna was in Adelaide on Christmas Day when friend Kylie Cunningham helped rescue husband Andrew and pet dog Harry from rising water.

“Our home is on two levels the entire house, the yard, the garden flooded,” she said.

“And trucks driving through water have been creating a tidal wave. I don’t know why the road isn’t just closed when it rains like this.”

With Donna back after Christmas, she and Andrew were living at home until Andrew’s asthma was irritated by the damp conditions.

When the second dump came a day after New Year, they were at their High Street property cleaning up. “As soon as the rain started, we turned the power off and

literally within five minutes the roads flooded,” she said.

Donna said a drain opposite their home had been inspected a month earlier and listed for maintenance by Loddon Shire.

Donna and Andrew bought their home three years ago after being told it had not flooded in 2010-2011.

“In 2022, the water came within half an inch of our front door,” she said. ““This time it’s come though twice.

“I’m worried about the build up of debris in drains,” Donna said.

Donna Richardson

SANBAGGING LEGENDS: Young residents of Wedderburn, Dingee and Korong Vale were among the teams filling sandbags as towns prepared for the third dump in 12 days on January 7. LH PHOTOS

10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

PYRAMID HILL

THE SUMMER STORMS

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LODDON communities have been hit with poor mobile phone reception and connectivity as floods roll across the region.

A Christmas Day connection dropout saw at least one provider off the air for five hours.

Optus said: “We are aware some Optus customers in Wedderburn and Inglewood experienced an unplanned disruption to their mobile service on December 25 at about 8:30am.

“An Optus field technician attended the site and power was restored shortly after midday.

“We apologise to affected customers and thank them for their patience.”

However, the spokeperson did not acknowledge the flood emergency gripping the region.

Australia’s No 2 telecommunications provider last year said: “Australia’s vastness and terrain can make it difficult for any operator to provide mobile coverage everywhere it is needed – especially in remote or hard-to-reach locations.

“Our work with SpaceX aims to bring the coverage capabilities of satellites direct

to compatible mobile handsets without the need for customers to buy additional equipment.”

The Optus’ collaboration with SpaceX is expected to roll out late this year.

Telstra did not comment on service challenges faced in local communities on Christmas Day but regional general manager Steve Tinker said: “We have a number of projects in the pipeline to expand and improve our coverage in the Loddon region.

“This includes continuing to expand our 5G coverage to communities like Inglewood and Moliagul in the next few months and planning is also underway for a new mobile site in Bridgewater and further 5G expansion to Dingee, Pyramid Hill, and Tanagulla.

“These projects are in addition to the recent construction of a new mobile base station at Boort and a 4G small cell in Bridgewater.

“Providing regional connectivity is not just a Telstra responsibility. It’s a challenge that must be shared between Federal, State and local governments and with providers

such as the nbn, us and other mobile carriers.”

“We continually investigate new opportunities to further expand our mobile coverage, including co-investment opportunities such as the Federal Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program and Regional Connectivity Program.”

Mr Tinker said Telstra had been working with Loddon Shire Council to identify priority areas where “we could co-invest, as well as develop a digital connectivity plan which will ensure we are aligned in our approach to closing the digital divide experienced and supporting digital inclusion throughout Loddon Shire.”

The council’s tourism and economic development manager David Stretch said: “Telstra’s regional engagement manager sent a note just prior to Christmas indicating the first draft of the Loddon Connectivity Plan would be provided to the Shire in February 2024.

“Once the plan is confirmed by Council and Telstra we will be generating a press release,” Mr Stretch told the Loddon Herald.

Fortnight wait for assistance call THE first Loddon residents to be hit by the summer floods waited a fortight for the State Government to announce they were eligible for flood assistance grants.

Premier Jacinta Allan confirmed at a Bendigo media conference Monday last week that the Christmas Day floods would be classed in the state’s distaster that the previous day had hit Bendigo, Rochester and other parts of the state.

“We will ensure that the Loddon Shire is part of that impact assessment ... and support that might need to be provided we will follow up directly with the Loddon Shire,” said.

The premier had returned to work that day and called a special meeting of Cabinet that night.

Under an announcement the following day, Loddon residents whose homes were flooded became eligibile for $640 personal hardship grants if their homes had been impacted. Children can receive $320 and the household maximum is $2240.

The Federal and State Governments will will also provide funding for councils in their flood recovery work.

Ms Allan told the media conference that she was concerned to hear more support was needed in Loddon Shire flood recovery since 2022, now made worse by the three summer rain bombs, and would follow that up direct with council.

The State Government had earlier rebuffed Nationals leader and Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh who called for declaration of a disaster after visiting Korong Vale and Wedderburn on December 28.

Mr Walsh met with farmers Peter Gibson and John Tonkin.

“We’ve only one paddock where all four boundary fences are still standing,” said Korong Vale’s Mr Gibson who watched swells from the Korong Creek swamp his paddocks and flow under the family home.

Some of those fences had been replaced af-

ter the October 2022 flood emergency.

Third generation Wedderburn Junction farmer John Tonkin said floodwaters had ripped through his property late Christmas Eve with a ferocity he had not seen before.

“I’ve had four floods in four years. By 11pm the waters were at full bore, bending fence posts. ripping out others and pulling out fences,” he said. “Some hay bales I had

out in the paddock have floated off somewhere.”

Mr Tonkin said water in areas that normally escape flooding was up to three metres high.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett late Tuesday afternoon said she would visit to the flood-hit communities of Wedderburn and Korong Vale yesterday.

VICTORIANS have been urged to take precautions against mosquito-borne disease after flooding and warm weather created a perfect breeding environment for the insect.

Flood-impacted communities have been

told to be on high alert in the coming weeks, as pooling water fuels the risk of disease, including Ross River virus, Murray Valley encephalitis and Japanese encephalitis. While mosquito-borne diseases cannot spread from person-to-person and

most cases will be mild, for some transmission can lead to severe and long-term health complications.

Water across the Loddon has turned black over the past week from water and debris pushed into rivers and streams.

Premier Jacinta Allan gives a media conference in Bendigo. LH PHOTO

Mosquito warning as bracken waters start to recede

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 11

12 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

VNI West Community News As we talk to landholders and members of the local community across the VNI West draft corridor, we are hearing genuine concerns about managing and fighting fires around transmission lines.

This month, “Community News” looks at high voltage transmission and bushfires and answers the common questions we’ve heard on this important topic.

We also recognise that TCV are not the experts in fighting fires, which is why we’ve worked with fire authorities such as the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Victoria’s safety regulator Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) to find the answers.

Do transmission lines increase the risk of bushfires?

As a rule, transmission lines don’t start fires. Importantly, in a major bushfire emergency, transmission can be “turned off”, so there is no power running through the lines.

“Transmission lines, when managed and maintained properly, pose a very low risk of starting a fire.”

Energy Safe Victoria

Can you fight a fire around transmission lines?

Yes - bushfires have been safely and successfully fought around transmission across the country for decades.

By law, the companies that own and maintain transmission lines must work with fire authorities to ensure that firefighting is possible around transmission.

“In a bushfire response, an assessment will be made by the Incident Controller - and if it is considered safe to do so, responding crews can operate near transmission lines. Firefighters receive training on the control measures for fighting fires near transmission lines.”

CFA Victoria

Calivil’s Chelsea Hicks

Chelsea named top student CHELSEA Hicks has been recognised as the top final year Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery student at La Trobe Univeristy Bendigo.

She was awarded the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation award for

2023 last month. Chelsea, from Calivil, has been studying nursing and midwifery at La Trobe.

The former Loddon Shire Young Citizen of the Year is continuing her career at Echuca Health this year.

Is it more dangerous for firefighters?

“There are dangers for firefighters in relation to potential arcing from overhead transmission lines, but this can be, and is, managed through an assessment of the fire and the different responses available.

“Low-intensity grassfires (with flames less than 2m in height), which don’t produce dense smoke contacting the transmission lines, can be managed on the ground, using normal procedures. Where there is more intense fire activity and dense smoke, a 25m safety buffer is applied.

In these instances, there is a range of different fire suppression options, including the use of firefighting aircraft.”

Jason Heffernan, Chief Officer CFA

Is bushfire risk being taken into account?

Yes. TCV would like to assure the community that evaluating bushfire risk is a priority as we refine the corridor for VNI West.

As part of the strict project review and approvals process, a detailed fire risk assessment must be conducted by an independent expert, with input from fire authorities including the CFA. Your feedback is important. Please get in touch through the channels below to raise any questions or comments and access further information.

You are also invited to visit the new TCV regional office in Kerang, to find more information or to chat with a member of the TCV project team.

Contact us Email: Freecall: Website: TCV Regional Office:

enquiries@transmissionvictoria.com.au 1800 824 221 transmissionvictoria.com.au Patchell Plaza, 47 Victoria Street, Kerang Open Tuesdays 11.30am to 5pm and Wednesdays 8.45am to 2pm

For further information on bushfires and transmission “Fighting Fires around Transmission Lines” www.CFA.vic.gov.au “Electricity Transmission Lines – Bushfire Management and Community Safety” www.esv.vic.gov.au

Berrimul’s Forbes Kirk (centre) made his debut as drum major of St Arnaud (Norman Simpson Memorial) Pipe Band at the Maryborough Highway Gathering on New Year’s Day. He is pictured with John Harvey and senior drum major of the massed bands Chris Earl.

Save Our Bacon: campaign to back pork industry MEMBER for Murray Plains Peter Walsh says submissions to a State Parliament inquiry into pig welfare in Victoria officially closed on Friday but has urged people to make late submissions in a battle for the pork industry.

Mr Walsh says the industry, which is strong across his electorate, is again under attack by “ideological fantasists” in the State Government and the Greens.

He says it is crucial industry and regional voices are not drowned out by extreme views clouding a sector contributing $488 million to the Victorian

economy and supporting almost 2700 full-time jobs.

“Labor has launched its ham-fisted Inquiry into pig welfare in Victoria and we are taking a stand against this attack on an industry backed by peer-reviewed, global scientific research into animal welfare.

“The launch of the ‘Save Our Bacon’ website – a key platform in the fight for an industry that already has the support of independent, audited quality assurance programs and is now live,” Mr Walsh said this week.

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 13

Local pledge on use of community equipment

Golden days ahead for Shane, Jackie SHANE Walker has been picking up gold nuggets around Inglewood since he was a child.

Grandmother Eva Hodgins taught him that there was gold on the ground after rain and would later teach him how to pan for the precious mineral.

He found his first nugget at the Morning Star dam as a student in Grade Six at Inglewood Primary School.

Today Shane is leading visitors to the region on gold detecting tours.

And helping him is partner Jackie who wears an engagement ring made from Shane’s first Morning Star find.

On Saturday, Shane will marry Jackie before the couple resume their regular Gold Nugget Hunter tours.

Shane and Jackie last month were among four Loddon tourism operators to complete a tourism digital training program co-ordinated by Bendigo Regional Tourism.

“The tourist market is slowly improving after COVID,” Shane said. “The people we take out are being introduced to prospecting and detecting ... they are people in awe of the bush.”

The size of their groups is never more than four and many quickly become hooked on gold.

“I was brought up prospecting for gold and it has become

Loddon gold tour leaders Shane and Jackie. LH PHOTO second nature. You learn about the gold, the soil ... you are really going over ground that has been worked before but there’s gold there,” he said.

Jackie said: “Finding a small nugget changes your life. Every nugget is like children - individual and beautiful.

“It’s not all luck. There’s also a lot of knowledge needed and how you read the ground.

“And the bush is a great life,” she said.

Shane said tourists joining his gold detecting tours were in awe of the bush.

“They are outdoor people and we help them fine tune their detectors and to know what they should be looking for,” he said. “They are easy to teach and eager to learn.”

Shane said one prospector had found three nuggets in one day.

“I drew a line on the ground indicating where I thought there might be gold,” he said.

“He was shaking with joy when he did.”

And the bonus of the tours, the learners get to keep what they find.

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EQUIPMENT donated by local businesses and community groups to the disbanded Pyramid Hill CERT ambulance team will be used in the Loddon Shire.

The commitment was given last week by Ambulance Victoria acting regional director clinical operations Amelia Kohn.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and Ambulance Victoria CEO Jane Miller would not respond to questions about future use of the equipment when they visited central Victoria earlier this month.

They requested questions be put in writing after concerns had been raised with the Loddon Herald that the equipment could be lost from local towns.

Ms Kohn said: “Ambulance Victoria will continue providing emergency care to the Pyramid Hill community with resources from nearby branches at Cohuna, Kerang and Boort.

“Equipment belonging to the Pyramid Hill CERT purchased thanks to generous donations will continue to be used locally by paramedics in the Pyramid Hill

area and surrounding communities such as Boort, Dingee and Mitiamo for training and emergency care.

“AV is working to install another new automated external defibrillator in Pyramid Hill, which would take the total number of publicly accessible AEDs in the township to four.

“Later this month, our paramedics will commence community education sessions to empower residents to provide early bystander intervention in cardiac arrest emergencies, which we know can make a life-saving difference while paramedics are enroute.

“We encourage Pyramid Hill community members to help improve cardiac arrest survival rates by becoming a GoodSAM Responder by downloading the app. You don’t have to be firstaid qualified or have a medical background, you just need to be willing and able to do hands-only CPR, be over 18 years of age and have access to a smartphone,” Ms Kohn told the Loddon Herald last week.

Site decision still coming for station THE site of a permanent ambulance station in Wedderburn is still to be selected.

Ambulance Victoria last year said it hoped to have the location chosen by February.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and Ambulance Victoria CEO Jane Miller said this month

an announcement would be made at a future time. Ambulance Victoria this week said it continud to work with the Wedderburn community and the Loddon Shire to ensure that ambulance services in the area “have the resources and facilities they need to continue to provide care into the future.”

14 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

OBITUARIES

Legendary country editor GARRICK RODNEY MEADOWS 1938-2024

Dedicated service to community groups HOWARD MATTHEWS 1939-2023 THE 2021 Loddon Shire Citizen of the Year, Howard Matthews, passed away last month aged 84.

He had been a member of the former Wedderburn Brass Band, later playing with bands in Bendigo and assisting at commemorative events in the district.

Howard was a founding member of the Wedderburn Cycling Club in the 1950s, scorer for Wedderburn Band Cricket Club amd secretary of the football club for five years from 1964.

He also volunteered at the Wedderburn Golf Club, where his contribution to the club’s course maintenance was always done humbly and dutifully and was a member of the town’s urban fire brigade from 1955 to 1982 holding numerous positions including secretary and treasurer from 1969 to 1973, first lieutenant from 1973 to 1975, and foreman/apparatus officer from 1961 to 1965.

PUBLISHER and editor of the former Boort and Quambatook Standard, Gary Meadows, has been remembered as a journalist who had the newspaper as part of its community.

Garrick Rodney Meadows, known as The Country Editor after a 1979 short documentary on his newspaper, died on January 6, aged 85, at Kialla.

Trevor Forbes, who served as Gordon Shire secretary from 1977 until local government amalgamations in 1994, said: “Gary took on the role of the local newspaper as part of the community, not to separate it.

“In the same way, council was part of the local community and it was beneficial for both of us to work in close co-operation,” Trevor said.

“The press plays a very important role in informing the community of council matters and Gary’s reporting was always accurate as debates at council and any other meetings were reported verbatim in his own style of reporting.

“He always adopted a positive attitude, taking the approach of the best interests of the community. He always supported change for the better in matters such as a community centre and a hostel plus lake developments and other proposals.

“To edit and publish a weekly newspaper is a very difficult job with a deadline every week no matter what.”

Trevor recalled a close professional and personal association with Gary.

“In fact, I last spoke with him about two weeks before his passing when he told

me he was not going too well. I sent him the Loddon Herald in recent years since it started publication - he valued this and often rang to later comment on various matters,” Trevor said.

Gary’s renown across country Victoria was secured with the release of a Film Australia documentary with the opening song composed and performed by popular folk group The Cobbers.

The Country Editor looked at life running a country newspaper, one that would win Victorian Country Press Association’s John and James Cook awards 10 years out of 11 when the association had a special category for the best newspaper in towns with a population of less than 1500, recalled former business partner Len Davis.

“Gary lived and breathed the Boort Standard,” Len said. “It broke his heart when he sold the newspaper.”

Gary followed in the footsteps of his fa-

ther Lawrie as owner of the newspaper.

“My work started in 1954 when apprenticed to my father Lawrie Meadows at the Boort Standard, setting eight-point type by hand out of upper and lower cases, and concluded in 1996 when we (with “and Quambatook Times” added to the masthead) had just spent the last four or five years learning the art of offset printing and computer typesetting – even if it was only a basic set-up, all we could afford,” he wrote to the Loddon Herald in 2022.

“But in the intervening years, especially after 1973 when I assumed father’s mantle, much time, effort and money was put into upgrading plant and producing the best possible product so that by the end we had 10 John and James Cook Awards to show for it – and the associated pride which of course goes before a fall, to prove we were so fanatical.”

He also reflected on changes in the newspaper industry. “I was basically doing what Guttenberg had invented, with the advantages of electricity, the camera and telephone added, but now it is possible – with the aid of a smartphone and laptop to do what I needed 20 tonnes of equipment, machinery and lead to do. I can’t complain as I lived through a great era, but how I would have loved the technology that is now available to anyone with initiative and ambition.”

Trevor Forbes said Gary had served as a member of the Boort Waterworks Trust.

“As a newspaper owner, Gary did a great job supporting community and rural interests and principles,” he said.

Gary is survived by wife Bev, children Bev. Rod, Maree and David, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Lover of sport and family remembered for active life

GEOFFREY ROBIN COLLINS 1939-2023

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ROBBIE Collins had a love of community and sport throughout his 82 years.

The Wedderburn identity, who played in Inglewood’s 1958 football premiership side, was born in Carlton, grew up in Rheola and married wife of 63 years Margaret at Kingower in 1960.

He attended school at Rheola and was a winner of the charity carnival races for local children.

After leaving school he worked with his uncle school. Robbie was driving bulldozers, digging dams and clearing land in the Mallee.

Robbie retired from the Shire of Korong at the age of 55. This enabled him to spend more time training his greyhounds.

He had several good greyhounds, all winning races but the most outstanding greyhound was Friendly Footman.

Robbie was also a well-known eucalyptus cutter and distiller. All the years he worked on the Shire of Korong he had a second job cutting and distilling eucalyptus oil, processing many vat’s out at the Woolshed Flat Factory owned by the Nisbet Family.

After retirement he continued making eucalyptus at Hard Hill Tourist Reserve in the working Eucalyptus Stew Pot. Robbie with other Wedderburn Tourism volunteers entertained many busloads of tourists showing them how to make eucalyptus oil.

Robbie loved telling jokes to the tourist’s and he was well known for this, especially the joke about Old Mr Smith, the woman aged 70 or Aunty Betty with her hair in rollers. Robbie for many years volunteered for the Minelab Wedderburn Detector Jamboree. Robbie was a member and life member of Wedderburn Tourism.

Robbie during his retirement cleaned the Wedderburn Mechanics’ Institute Hall

and worked as a cleaner at Wedderburn College. Robbie retired from both cleaning positions at the age of 82.

He had been a member of Wedderburn Masonic Lodge and served as master for two years, Rheola and Wedderburn Fire Brigades, Wedderburn Harness Racing where he drove the tractor and roller on race days and supervised the work for the dole program at Hard Hill Tourist Reserve and at at Wedderburn Community House.

He played the town’s Santa for many years fooling his grandchildren.

Daughter Robyn said: “Robbie loved each of his grandchildren immensely, always making the time individually for them to hear what they had been up to and their achievements. Alexander the only grandson he cherished so much enjoying the year he played football for Sea Lake and they won the premiership.”

“Work was a big part of Robbie’s life either paid or volunteering. He often made comment no good sitting there, you either use it or loss it your mobility.”

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 15

FLOOD RECOVERY UPDATE BULLETIN HEALTH & WELLBEING SUPPORT Royal Flying Doctor Service - Flying Doctor Wellbeing - Available to those aged 18+. Call (03) 8412 0480.

Rural Financial Counselling Service - free and confidential financial support - Call 1300 735 578 Mind Australia Bendigo Call 1300 286 463 or visit mindaustralia.org.au Orange Door - You have a right to be safe - Call 1800 512 359 Australian Community Support Organisation (ACSO) - An intake organisation for Alcohol and other Drugs, Mental health, Youth and other clinical services for the Loddon area.

1800respect - Confidential information, counselling and support service. Call 1800 737 732 Nurse on Call 24 hour caring and professional health advice 1300 60 60 24.

Lifeline: 24hr crisis support and suicide prevention services: 13 11 14 or lifeline. org.au Beyond Blue Information and support for anxiety and/or depression: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.com.au Kids Help Line 24hr phone and online counselling service for people aged 5-25: 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au Seniors Rights Victoria - Elder abuse, prevention and support - 1300 368 821 Emerging Minds Provides resources for parents, carers, and families about infant and child mental health: emergingminds.com.au Translation and Interpreter Services Provides access to phone and on-site interpreting services. Requests must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance. www.tisnational.gov.au National Relay Service Assistance making a phone call if you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impediment. Speak and listen number: 1300 555 727.

18 JANUARY 2024

December 2023/January 2024 severe weather and floods

Some important information

 With the recent floods, it is understandable if you are feeling concerned and experiencing a mix of strong emotions or physical reactions right now.  For those who have faced flooding before, this might be a particularly challenging time that is stirring up memories and feelings of sadness, fear, and grief.  It’s important to remember that recovery is a personal journey, and everyone experiences things differently. For some people, recovery is ongoing.  Remember, experiencing these emotions is a normal response to such events, but these concerns may lead to other issues if they are not managed.  If you find yourself experiencing strong emotions, remember that talking about your worries and feelings as well as remaining connected to others can make them more manageable. It is important to identify what actions can be taken to address the source of your concerns. Be aware of the signs that you might need some extra support and get help if you need it. Find out more here: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/servicesandsupport/traumarecovery-services  Seeking help is a sign of strength and often the first step in recovery.

Remember, you are not alone in this. If you are feeling overwhelmed or concerned about your mental health, or that of

GRANTS Strengthening Rural Communities - Small & Vital; Prepare and Recover; Rebuilding Regional Communities The Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) has three grants schemes currently open. The Strengthening Rural Communities Small & Vital stream gives small remote, rural and regional communities across Australia the opportunity to access funds for a broad range of initiatives that directly and clearly benefit local communities.

Grants up to $10,000 are available for a broad range of grassroots, community-led

someone close to you, don’t hesitate to reach out for support by talking to:  neighbours, friends or family  your doctor  Local health and community health services  Lifeline on 131114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636  The newly established Bendigo and Echuca Mental Health and Wellbeing Local (servicing Greater Bendigo, Loddon and Campaspe) have wellbeing supports available via telehealth on: Bendigo: (03) 5497 5600 Echuca: (03) 5412 6600  The Loddon Children’s Health and Wellbeing Hub, operated by Bendigo Community Health Services, provides free health and wellbeing support for children up to 11 years old, and their families and carers. To access services people can call 1800 433 977  In addition to locally based supports, broader statewide supports are available to all people impacted by the recent flooding events, through the following telehealth support options, including: - Rural Health Connect, which provides communities with free, accessible telepsychology services: www.ruralhealthconnect.com.au - Partners in Wellbeing, which provides free mental health and wellbeing support and advice, and assists with navigation for Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals and Hubs: 1300 375 330  For more help and information please visit: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/servicesandsupport/traumarecovery-services

initiatives that directly and clearly benefit local communities that strengthen local people, places and climate solutions, with a preference for smaller communities (populations under 15,000). Applications close 5pm VIC time (AEDT) 26 February 2024.

Funding announced late April 2024. For more information on all three grants visit https:// frrr.org.au/funding/place/src-small-vital/ Tiny Towns Funds The Tiny Towns Fund supports local communities to deliver quality tourism and community facility projects, such as splash parks and bike trails, playgrounds, community

LOCAL SUPPORT SERVICES Community Health/Hospitals Boort District Health 3 Kiniry St, Boort P: (03) 5451 5200 Inglewood and District Health Services 3 Hospital St, Inglewood P: (03) 5431 7000 Northern District Community Health P: (03) 5451 0200 Boort Medical Centre 2 Coutts St, Boort P:(03) 5451 5200 Dingee Bush Nursing Centre 21 King St, Dingee P:(03) 5436 8309 Marong Medical Practice 8 Hospital St, Inglewood P:(03) 5438 3308 Wedderburn Health Clinic 25 Wilson St, Wedderburn P: (03) 5494 3511 Legal Services Loddon Campaspe Community Legal Service P: 1800 450 909 Neighbourhood Houses Boort Resource and Information Centre (BRIC) 119-121 Godfrey St, Boort P: (03) 5455 2716 Inglewood Community Neighbourhood House Cnr Verdon & Market St, Inglewood P: (03)5455 2716 Pyramid Hill Neighbourhood House 43 Kelly St, Pyramid Hill P: (03) 5455 7129 Wedderburn Community House 24 Wilson St, Wedderburn P: (03) 5494 3489

hall and library upgrades, public art and more. Victorian towns with a population of up to 5,000 people are eligible to apply.

Applications for grants between $5,000 and $50,000 from Regional Development Victoria are now open for community and not-for-profit groups. Applications close 5pm, Sunday 25 February 2024. Applicants will be required to make a co-contribution towards the proposed project budget in line with the requirements outlined in the Program Guidelines. To find out more, or to apply, visit https://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/grants-and.../tinytowns-fund

WHAT’S ON 1 February - Community Dinner with David Younger in Pyramid Hill Melbourne-based natural disaster recovery and preparedness consultant David Younger will present to Loddon Shire residents at a free community dinner in the Victoria Hotel, Pyramid Hill on Thursday 1 February 2024.

(For details see advertisement on Page 3 of today’s Loddon Herald).

Support for farmers impacted by flooding Agriculture Victoria is available to help farmers in flood-affected areas to address urgent animal welfare concerns or to report any agricultural losses.

Agriculture Victoria provides support to impacted primary producers through its Agriculture Recovery Team.

See www.loddonhealthyminds.com.au for more information

LODDON SHIRE SERVICES AND CONTACTS Loddon Shire Council’s Flood Recovery team would love to hear from you and assist you through your flood recovery.

Please get in touch if you would like to chat about flood recovery for you and your community.

Call Mal: 0499 978 145 or Josie: 0474 911 783

Contact the team on 0427 694 185 or by email recovery@agriculture.vic.gov.au

For up-to-date information regarding flood recovery and council services:  Visit our website at www.loddon.vic.gov.au  Call our office between 8.15am-4.45pm, Monday-Friday on (03) 5494 1200; or  Go to our Facebook page facebook.com/LoddonShire/

16 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

Gearing up for nation’s day

Bridgewater’s historic swimming hole has been popular with visitors over the summer break. Among those making a splash at the weekend was Cassie Dunlop. LH PHOTO

LODDON Shire communities are preparing to celebrate Australia Day next Friday with barbecues and breakfasts across the region.

The shire will next week announce its citizen and young citizen of the year award recipients and local community service awards will be presented in the shire’s five wards.

Inglewood’s Howard Rochester was the shire’s top citizen in 2023 with Wedderburn’s Jake Murphy named as the leading young citizen.

The 8th National Tractor Trek hosted in Wedderburn in 2022 was named the shire’s event of the year.

The annual school competition has received entries from across the area with awards to be announced on Australia Day.

Boort – Nolens Park, starting from 9.15am followed by morning tea. Guest speaker Chris O’Flaherty.

Bridgewater – Sloans Park, barbeque breakfast from 8am. Guest speaker local ambulance officer David Booth.Eddington - Eddington Hall, barbeque breakfast from 8am.

Inglewood - Inglewood Swimming Pool, starting from 11am. Guest speaker will be Fernihurst’s Jude Hannah .

Mitiamo - Mitiamo Recreation Reserve, barbeque breakfast from 8.30am.

Guest speaker Raywood’s Leading Senior Constable Marcus Uren.

Newbridge - Newbridge Hall, starting from 11.15am followed by a light luncheon. Guest speaker veteran Bendigo jouralist and broadcaster Graham Turpie.

Pyramid Hill - Pyramid Hill Memorial Hall, starting from 5pm followed by a barbeque dinner. Guest speaker businessman and progress association president Drew Chislett.

Tarnagulla – Soldiers Memorial Park, starting from 5pm followed by a barbeque dinner.

Wedderburn – Soldiers’ Memorial Park, starting from 11.45am followed by a barbeque lunch. Guest speaker will be Ripon MP Martha Haylett.

Australia Day is a public holiday and offices and many businesses will be closed for the day.

Tourist numbers are expected to swell in popular spots including Bridgewater and Boort for the final weekend before school starts for the year.

159 holes drilled in miner’s new program FALCON Metals last month resumed its aircore drilling program in the Pyramid Hill district.

The company has reported to the ASX that its gold project with a focus on regional screening across the large tenement holding was following up on areas with anomalous results from prior drilling and assessment of minerals sands and potential rare earth element mineralisation.

“Falcon completed a total of 15,886 metres of AC drilling comprising both infill and regional reconnaissance drilling,” the report said.

“The drilling program involved 159 holes for a total of 12,425 metres focused on gold exploration and 77 holes for a total of 3461 metres focused on mineral sands and associated REE exploration.

“Assay results relating to the gold exploration for 72 holes were received postquarter.

“The remaining gold and mineral sands results are expected during the March 2024 quarter,” said Falcon.

Paws and more PAWSOME Friends in Inglewood helped residents at the district health service hostel with Christmas celebrations last month.

Janette Nixon was among organisers of the Santapaws party held at the recreation reserve.

She said the local group was pleased to share the occasion with residents.

Send your local news to loddonherald@gmail.com

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 17

Minister’s praise for inspirational teenager dead 12 minutes

Tyson’s journey to recovery TYSON Woodman has been lauded for his drive and inspiration in with Health Minister MaryAnne Thomas called his amazing recovery from a near-fatal asthma attack a year ago.

Ms Thomas lauded the Korong Vale teenager, local ambulance officers, paramedics and nurses at Bendigo Health after the attack left Tyson dead for 12 minutes on New Year’s Day 2023.

She said the gathering at Bendigo Health earlier this month allowed special thanks to be given to “everyone ... you all have this beautiful connection to Tyson”.

“When you work with someone, work with them to save their life, their friends and family never forget you,” Ms Thomas said.

She said people always remembered those who had assisted family or friends in trying times.

Wedderburn ambulance officer Glenn Thompson said: “We are all glad he is here now.”

Glenn and Wedderburn fellow community ambulance officer Lynne Gondar were first on the scene.

For Glenn, it was a particularly tough case to attend. “Tyson’s grandparents were actually Community Emergency Response Team members with me when we started as First Responders up here,” Glenn said.

“I’ve also gotten to know and

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas thanks nurses and paramedics who helped in the recovery of Tyson Woodman (centre) including Glenn Thompson (right). LH PHOTO really like Tyson – I’m an electrician by trade and I met him when he was doing a school placement with the local builder.

“I remember getting the call and as we were driving the am-

bulance across, I was saying I hope it’s not Tyson, I hope it’s not the Woodman’s house.

“We walked in and started trying to administer medication to help him breathe but then he

went into cardiac arrest, so next thing we’re doing CPR on him,” Glenn said.

Grandmother Verneece Woodman said Glen had been more than an ambulance officer to Ty-

son. “They have a great friendship.”

Tyson is continuing rehabIlitation, has returned to working two days a week at Randall’s Supermarket and is being assessed for his driver’s licence with multiple health tests almost completed.

Verneece said the Korong Vale and Wedderburn communities had been priceless in their support over the last 12 months.

“Without you guys, he (Tyson) would not be here in the way he is today,” she said.

Verneece said the community support was shown with people always keeping an out out for him.

Tyson also proudly displayed the football and Wedderburn Redbacks jumper - with his number 53 - as club veteran Adam Postle told Ms Thomas that Tyson was a “loveable little larrikin” who had become a miracle with his recovery. Tyson hopes to return to the football field this season.

As one ICU nurse said during the celebration with Ms Thomas: “(He’s) bouncing back with happiness and enthusiasm ... he’s very special.”

VIDEO MOMENT: Tyson meets the minister www.loddonherald.com.au

2024 Council meeting dates All Council meetings are open to the public, starting 3pm at the Loddon Shire Council Chambers, behind Wedderburn office, off Peters Street.

Loddon Shire Council offers livestream via our Facebook page and on-demand access to Council meetings, enabling members of the public to view meetings via the internet as an alternative to attending in person.

Tuesday 23 January 2024 Tuesday 27 February 2024 Tuesday 26 March 2024 Tuesday 23 April 2024 Tuesday 28 May 2024 Tuesday 25 June 2024 Tuesday 23 July 2024 Tuesday 27 August 2024 Tuesday 24 September 2024 Tuesday 22 October 2024 Tuesday 26 November 2024 Tuesday 10 December 2024

Council is once again participating in the State Government’s mosquito monitoring program through to April 2024. Council staff will be setting mosquito traps across the Shire on a weekly basis. You may also see a Council staff member spraying public buildings and grounds with a barrier spray to help reduce mosquito numbers.

COUNCIL OFFICE T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003 Cr Gavan Holt Mayor Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

Cr Neil Beattie Boort Ward 0427 552 468

Cr Wendy Murphy Inglewood Ward 0436 457 170

Cr Linda Jungwirth Tarnagulla Ward 0428 259 082

Cr Dan Straub Terrick Ward 0429 236 399

E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm

CONTACT COUNCIL

41 High Street Wedderburn 3518

18 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

‘Vertical flood’ strips tomato yield by half CHRISTMAS floods are expected to cut tomato crop yields in the Boort district by 50 per cent.

Sawers Farm’s Tony Sawers described the damaging deluge as a vertical flood.

“More than six inches of rain in six hours created an instant flood across our crops,” he said.

“And we’ve had another four inches or 100mm since that big downpour that started on Christmas Eve, giving us about 80 per cent of our annual rainfall since Christmas eve.

“That’s just made things too wet for our tomato plants to grow. They need oxygen and the waterlogging has stopped that.”

Mr Sawers said the tomato crop had been tracking well before Christmas.

“The season was looking like it would deliver a good average mid-range return,” he said.

“It’s amazing how quickly things have gone from the crest of the wave to the sandbar.

“The assessment at the moment is that we have lost half of our tomato crop but it appears corn will

come through okay.” Mr Sawers said the big summer wet was also affecting the soy bean crop.

“The rains over two weeks have made for a disappointing and frustrating summer.

“There’s always lots of energy and time and effort put into the crops by our staff and farmers right across the district and then oops ... that’s farming,” Mr Sawers said.

“To have summer crops waterloogged is not a formula for success.”

Corn has become a major crop in the 1100 hectares of drip irrigation on the farm where a new Australian record had been set for breaking the 20-tonnes-perhectare yield barrier.

Mr Sawers said he expected corn would pull through from the wet spell.

And Mr Sawers said dryland crops would have a full profile moisture that would auger well for the winter season.

“Yields will be down across our summer crops but there will still be something,” Mr Sawers said.

CORN crops across the Boort district are expected to still return good yields this season despite the summer deluge that has had a greater impact on tomatoes and soy beans. Retired farmer Bruce Wagner is pictured revelling in the strength of local corn crops before the Christmas floods that have waterlogged some farms.

MM | LIVESTOCK

EST. 1911

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report Lambs were cheaper than market last week. Sheep saw significant rise.

Monday, January 15th 2024 - Bendigo Yarding: Lambs - 20,000 Sheep - 8,000 $ Per Head

$ Per Kg

Trend ($ Per Head)

Heavy Lambs

200-258

6.80-7.30

- 10

Trade Lambs

145-205

7.20-7.60

- 5-8

Heavy Suckers

175-205

7-7.20

- 5-8

Trade Suckers

145-175

7-7.40

-5

Store Lambs

60-145

3-3.20 (liveweight)

- 2-4

Heavy Sheep

90-125

2.50-2.80

+ 15-20

Trade Sheep

70-95

2.90-3.20

+15-20

Light Sheep

45-65

3

+10-12

Sign up to receive weekly market reports

To discuss the marketing opportunities available for your livestock, contact the McKean McGregor team.

Alex Collins - 0408 314 768

Drew Stratton - 0414 576 371

Zeb Broadbent - 0447 002 844 Will Holt- 0417 686 814

Alex Pollock - 0409 145 832

Henry Bugge - 0403 671 917

MCKEANMCGREGOR.COM.AU |

Will Lowe - 0498 381 584

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 19

LAND AUCTION

BURKES FLAT – CENTRAL VICTORIA

SHEEP AND LAMBS NUMBERS lifted to 18900 lambs and 8700 sheep at Bendigo on Monday.

Mutton supply more than double last week-s conditions dry out and farmers move to take advantage of the improved market.

There was a good line-up of heavy lambs while quality over the trade and light lambs was more varied. All the regular processing orders were represented although some buyers weren’t fully active.

The lamb market lost some of last week’s big price gains, and the feel from the market was it was trying to find its level.

Bidding did wax and wane across the auction, and the best presented shorn crossbred lambs received the most support. Buyers were more reserved on any woolly lambs.

The heaviest shorn crossbred lambs over 30kg cwt sold from $207 to a top of $260/hd to record estimated averages of 700c to 720c/kg cwt.

There was export weight Dorper lambs, and heavy unshorn young lambs, which sold in a range of 650c to 700c/kg showing how buyers were able to exert more selection pressure on this sale compared to a week ago.

The main run of heavy shorn lambs, 2630kg, sold from $179 to $213, followed by the heavy trades, 24-26kg cwt at $159 to $188, and the 22-24kg trade types from $146 to $169/hd.

While there was still isolated sales of neat trade lambs up to around 780c/k, the bulk of the lamb categories to processors were trending from 670c to 730c/kg cwt.

Any decent light lambs were mostly $70 to $136, with restocking support from Horsham and the local area.

The sheep market gained momentum with heavy ewes pushing over $200 on multiple occasions.

Good mutton was trending either side of 300c/kg cwt.

Heaviest Merino ewes in a high value skin to $124 and big crossbred ewes to $110.

Most sheep $60 to $90, with light ewes selling for some of the highest c/kg rates of the mutton sale.

SUCKERS T & M Roulston Jarklin (140) $208. HM Last Firey

Flat (52) $196. A & J Soulsby Charlton (70) $195. Traverston Farming St Arnaud (48) $190.

CROSSBRED LAMBS DJ & ED Lees Rochester (110) $260. Somerville Feed P/L Tragowell (23) $256. OST Moama Moama (196) $255. DL & TM Jensen Diggora West (62) $248. P Ogden Echuca (24) $248. ALB & R McIntosh Wanalta (86) $245.

WJ Whatley Goornong (57) $244. OST Elmore Elmore (84) $240. R & J Elder Jeruk (135) $239. JS & W Brown Colbinabbin (94) $238. SN & DA Collins Bridgewater (20) $235. R Fisicaro Warragoon (65) $234. JH Hay & Son Kamarooka (92) $230. C Graham Family Arnold (50) $229. D & C Gunther Pyramid Hill (75) $228. Stevenson Family Trust Lake Charm (52) $225. WL & PJ Johnson Myola East (122) $225. Gredgwin Ridge Boort (81) $212. Robert Niven Runnymede (22) $212. PD Reynolds Pyramid Hill (59) $206. WB Bennett Moulamein (136) $205. Andshara Trust Berrimal (114) $199.

J & K Kennedy Pyramid Hill (63) $196. Eddington Acrepair Arnold West (61) $193. Furzefield P/L Pyalong (42) $190. G & L Langley Newbridge (101) $188. MN Isaac Powlett Plains (44) $179.

381.85 Hectares/ 943.55 Acres THURSDAY 15TH FEBRUARY 2024 @ 11:30am SHARP! AT RHEOLA TOWN HALL ACCOUNT: ESTATE OF EILEEN PERRY

To be offered in 2 Lots Lot 1: “Wallis’s & Lindorff’s” Burkes Flat- Wedderburn Rd, Fentons Creek

 282.59 Hectares / 698.27 Acres  3 Titles  2 Paddocks  2 Dams  90% Arable Lot 2: “Brown’s” Burkes Flat- Wedderburn Rd, Logan

 99.26 Hectares / 245.27 Acres  2 Titles  1 Paddock  3 Dams  95% Arable

MERINO LAMBS H McKIndlay Richmond Park (70) $167.

CROSSBRED EWES SN & DA Collins Bridgewater Nth (33) $119. IC & EA Chandler Bridgewater (16) $114. Pompapiel Past Pompapiel (62) $110. NA & DJ Seach Pranjip (38) $100. D & J MacDonald Porcupine Ridge (100) $92. J Ryan Mathoura (22) $91. RJ & DM Johnson Boort (93) $88. J Sutherland Kilmore (22) $88. Parklea Kaduna Nagambie (100) $85. R Fisicaro Warragoon (47) $81.

MERINO EWES

Terms: 10% Deposit on signing, balance in 60 days Immediate working possession (T’s & C’s apply)

Further Particulars: Luke Nevins: 0418 510 166 * FP NEVINS DOES NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ABOVE

PD Reynolds Pyramid Hill (145) $119. Bruce West Raywood (110) $114. DN & MJ Curnow Laanecoorie (72) $105. JH Hay & Son Kamarooka (16) $100. G & R Allen Euroa (35) $97. B & J Colvin Bunnaloo (23) $96. Hopeavon P/L, Kurting (59) $89. Nutbyrne P/L Knowsley (54) $86. CD Hepburn Strangways (70) $81.

Order of sales next week: Elders, Nevins, Nutrien, Nuttall, McKean McGregor.

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

grain BOORT Grain Co-op prices Tuesday.

Wheat - H1 $345. H2 $345. APW $320.

ASW $295. GP1 $287.

Barley - Planet Malt 1 $325. Spartacus Malt 1 $280. Bar 1 $290. Bar 2 $261.

Faba 1 $460. Faba 2 $420. Nipper 1 $860. Field pea 1 $410. Oats 1 $410. Oats 2 $400.

ISCC - non-GM canola $566. ISCC GM canola $541. GM canola $560.

Water share allocations rise after catchment drenching THE low water realibility share for Loddon system irrigators has been increased to 67 per cent.

Resource Manager Andrew Shields said wetter conditions had increased the resource available for allocation.

“Rainfall in late December and early January has increased resource availability in the Goulburn system, prompting the seasonal determination improvements announced today,” Mr Shields said.

“The resumption of releases to manage levels in Lake Eildon also contributed,” Mr Shields added.

“About 33,000 ML has been released from Lake Eildon to date, which is about 9 per cent of the volume held in spillable water accounts in the Goulburn system.

“Releases to manage storage levels are continuing and further deductions from Goulburn spillable water accounts will

occur with the February seasonal determination update.

Mr Shields also confirmed Lake Eppalock had refilled to capacity, affecting spillable water accounts in the Campaspe system.

“Due to the spills from Lake Eppalock, around 10,500 ML will be deducted from Campaspe spillable water accounts. This represents about 54 per cent of the accounts’ volume.”

The Goulburn and Loddon systems move from 100 per cent HRWS and 46 per cent LRWS to 100 per cent HRWS and 67 per cent LRWS. Seasonal determinations in the Murray system increases from 100 per cent of high-reliability water shares (HRWS) and 16 per cent of low-reliability water shares (LRWS) to 100 per cent HRWS and 25 per cent LRWS.

MEMBER for Mallee Anne Webster says food prices are set to climb and cost-ofliving pressures would get even harder for Mallee families, with the Government’s anti-farming changes to the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme.

Under the new rules from this month,

farmers will be forced to offer a minimum of 30 hours per week, over four weeks, to workers from nine Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste. They will then be forced to offer 30 hours per week, every week, from July 1, 2024, Dr Webster said last week.

Farm worker change linked to price rises

FOR LEASE BY TENDER

“JUNGABURRA” CENTRAL VICTORIA 2197.5 Hectares/ 5429 Acres - To be offered in 4 lots Cropping, pasture & wool production 3 Year Lease with a 2 year option

Lot 1: “Clee & Smith” 260.50 Hectares equalling 643.7 Acres.

In 2 paddocks with water by 3 dams. Red loam soil to clay base, dry feed base. 100% arable Lot 2: “Farrahs” 535.6 Hectares equalling 1329 Acres. Access from 3 roads. In 4 paddocks, water from 6 dams. Small set cattle yards, pasture comprising dry land, lucerne and stubble.

Partial fallow. 98% Arable. Red to grey loam soil mix Lot 3: “Amarants & Sibera” Including House Block 353.70 Hectares equalling 874 Acres. In 6 paddocks. Water by 7 dams.

Red loam to grey loam mix with small quartz ruse. Established dry land pasture. Curtilage available on request. 95% Arable Lot 4: “Sutherlands” 1061.1 Hectares equalling 2582.2 Acres. 98% Arable in 6 paddocks, water by 9 dams. Red loam soil to clay base, established dry pasture and lucerne.

Remarks: Extensive local land holding in almost one parcel, fencing is sheep proof. Most of this parcel is over 98% arable with balance being shelter belts, all dams can be filled from the Bendigo Creek. Pipeline water also available (not connected) Terms: 3 Year plus 2-year option. Tender to commence 1/3/2024. Payment ¼ in advance, working rights by request Closes: 25/1/2024 HIGHEST OR ANY TENDER NOT NECESSARILY ACCEPTED Inspections and Further particulars James Nevins: 0407 302 900

Luke Nevins: 0418 510 911

* FP NEVINS DOES NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ABOVE

20 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

Democracy requires an involvement, answers THE JOY of Christmas and New Year has been somewhat diminished by storms and floods across our part of the state.

Residents, business owners and farmers have been tested by nature unleashing torrents of rain in proportions that although seen before, have raised questions about resources and funding made available to maintain drainage easements and waterways.

Premier Jacinta Allan told this newspaper at a media conference in Bendigo last week that the Loddon Shire staff did an amazing job.

Indeed they do Premier. But always facing a battle for funds from governments at state and federal level to do enough work. Even small hanging fruit allocations for roadside weed management programs have been pretty much stagnant for more than a decade.

Government leaders should really come and see for themselves how much is being achieved with so little yet leaving much more to be done. If only their budgets put a focus on core functions - roads, drainage the crying-out prime examples - departments and councils deprived of vital funds and resources while the percentage of the money pie increases for bureaucrats and social policy expansion and implementation.

The plight of rural communities in the Loddon Shire and other parts of country Victoria can struggle to be a blip on the political radar.

Even after the floods - remember some areas were hit three times in a fortnight - sightings of political representatives have been rare. Nationals leader and Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh was on the ground calling for assistance within days.

It was only when Bendigo, and then Rochester, were impacted that the State Government kicked the festive lethargy and there was acknowledgement of what some Loddon communities had already experienced.

The Premier returtned from leave, called a media conference at short notice and then a meeting of Cabinet. In one day, there was the promise of assistance for Loddon communities.

EDITORIAL That such action took two weeks to put on the agenda of Government is a sad reflection on the Premier’s colleagues.

The Premier did indeed answer questions at that media conference from the Loddon Herald. A contrast to the visit to Bendigo Health by Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas to celebrate the second chance of life by Korong Vale teenager Tyson Woodman.

When asked about the decision and the angst that erupted in the Inglewood community when the old ambulance station was demolished last September, Ms Thomas kept replying that the town had a new station.

And then when questioned about communitydonated CERT ambulance team equipment in Pyramid Hill and plans for a permanent station in Wedderburn, we were told to put the questions in writing.

It was a good thing that minsterial visits to Bendigo were able to be covered by your local newspaper. Some questions were answered others not.

If only these ministers could travel a little further and call in on Loddon communities.

And that leads us to another looming disconnect with democracy and accountability. The Victorian Electoral Commission is about to start a review of Loddon Shire ward boundaries but the VEC says it has no plans to communicate with the very people its processes and decisions will impact other than telling us to “keep an eye on our website for the precise dates and times” for information sessions and an advertisement in a Melbourne newspaper.

This should not be how democracy works. Democracy is about engagement and participation. If there’s to be local engagement, the VEC must realise it doesn’t emanate from Melbourne.

Welcome to the New Year. Let’s hope smoother waters flow after a rocky introduction.

20

QUESTION QUIZ

1. What is the closest dwarf planet to Earth?

2. Proboscis monkeys are found exclusively on which island?

3. Which direction does King Charles III face on Australian coins?

4. Jørn Utzon designed which building opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973?

5. On a music score ‘p’ stands for which word meaning quiet?

6. Name the Melbourne newspaper that is the sister newspaper of the Sydney Morning Herald.

7. What is the fourth letter of the Greek alphabet?

8. What is a baby dolphin called?

9. Traditionally what is the Sunday before Easter Sunday called?

10. Who was the first coach of the Gold Coast Suns?

11. What is the British version of Vegemite?

12. Name the athlete to have won the most gold medals at Olympic sprinting events.

13. True or false – the Holden Commodore was Australia’s best selling car between 1995 and 2011.

14. What was the code-name of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945?

15. Who is the current captain of Australia’s test cricket team?

16. Australian band AC/DC is often referred to by what name?

17. What is the capital city of Germany?

18. In Scouts Australia, what is the highest level badge awarded?

19. Who played Mary Poppins in the original film adaptation?

20. What is the second tallest bird in the world?

ANSWERS 1. Ceres 2. Borneo 3. Left 4. Sydney Opera House 5. Piano 6. The Age 7.

Delta 8. Calf 9. Palm Sunday 10. Guy Mckenna 11. Marmite 12. Usain Bolt 13. False – best selling between 1996-2010 14. Little Boy 15. Pat Cummins 16. Acca Dacca 17. Berlin 18. The Peak Award 19. Julie Andrews 20. Emu.

FEATURES | OPINION AND QUIZ

your online words from the loddon herald facebook page DRAMATIC NARDOO CREEK RESCUE BY LOCAL RESIDENTS Samantha McClelland wrote: Absolute legends. The community heroes.

Verneece Woodman wrote: Absolutely love our community always there for each other. well done to you all.

Tania Louise wrote: Absolutely heroes. Great team work to you all.

Susan Lockhart wrote: Well done team, this is such a good story and outcome.

Pam Evans wrote: So glad this

36 | Loddon HERALD December 21, 2023

SPORT

Rhianon award ambassador

Michelle Murray wrote: Bless those who helped and rescued him. Something no one ever wants to see or experience. Glad Five in titles the man and his dog were able to be saved.

Bernadette Reeves wrote: No I in team, well done all of you.

make? Now I’m blocked. We reckon that’s a good one.

Super veterans Gillian Tweddle, Ken Birt and Thelma Moresi.

CHAMPION rally co-driver and one of the Loddon’s greatest 21st century sporting exports, Rhianon Gelsomino, is the official ambassador for the Loddon Herald Spots Star of the Year awards.

The American champion and two-time US 2WD victor is back in Australia for the Christmas holidays and jumped at the invitation to inspire the feats of today’s sportsmen and women in local communities.

Winners of the monthly sports star award become eligible for the major annual award with nominations drawn from articles in the Loddon Herald.

Rhianon said: “I am very excited to be named as the ambassador for the Loddon Herald Sports Star awards.

“Having grown up in Wedderburn, sport was everything to my family,” said the former school physical education teacher who had her first introduction to community sport through tennis and netball.

“It was a great way to connect to the local community and build friendships.

Champion of sport and the Loddon’s annual awards ... Rhianon Gelsomino “Sport has taught me so many things in life and become my career. I was a PE teacher for six years, before taking up professional co-driving full time in 2010.

“Sport has allowed me to have a dream and chase it. It’s taken me all over the world.

“Sport has taught me that any-

thing is possible if you work hard.

I can’t wait to be involved in this amazing award in our local community and share my support and encouragement of the amazing local sportspeople playing sport they love for the towns and communities they are a part of,” Rhiannon said.

Rhianon’s acceptance of the

ambassador role comes as champion Pyramid Hill motocross rider Judd Chislett is named as November’s sports star of the month. Judd is the second monthly winner with John Coffey being named the October star.

The inaugural sports star of the year will be announced at a dinner next October.

BOORT bowlers are celebrating after members took out two North Central playing area titles.

Club champion Shayne Morris skippered Laurie Maxted, Tony Matley and Ken Birt to the men’s state fours title and Saleena Roberts won the ladies’ state novice singles.

The five will progress to regional championships next year.

And at the club’s Christmas break-up president Laurie Maxted presented Gillian Tweddle, Thelma Moresi and Ken Birt with their super veterans badges.

had a good outcome. Must have been terrifying for all involved.

Well done everyone.

Michelle Miller Hargreaves wrote: Super amazing in such a scary situation, well done guys.

Sandra Standfield wrote: Well done guys. Top job by all.

Saleena Roberts

RHIANON GELSIMINO LODDON HERALD SPORTS STAR AWARD AMABASSADOR

Kylie Carter wrote: What a brilliant choice! Rhianon is a brilliant role model for all kids in any sports. Dedicated, professional and just has the best attitude out there.

bushy tales BY iAN jONES

B

RADLEY of Boort wasted no time getting into action for the New Year ... even if his latest sign hints at taking time to make a start.

D

OWN the Loddon Valley Highway at Serpentine, time touched down on the tennis courts at the weekend. The diligent court marker placed SO in one corner of a court. Others thought it was a tribute to his wife who reached a milestone birthday. Reckon he had a penny for his thoughts.

Y

STEEL’S BUTCHERS - OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY 77 High Street, Wedderburn Phone 5494 3334

OUNG chap came across a wonderful post out there in social media land: Someone posted they had just baked synonym buns. I replied, you mean just like the ones grammar used to

H

OLIDAYS were a rare commodity this year for many ... all that rain didn’t make getting away easy. One who did was left scratching a sunburnt head when he saw this sign: Holiday rentals damage the tourism industry because potential employees have nowhere to live. Guess this seaside town only wants day trippers.

P

ERHAPS people could live in sandcastles. A gorgeous small seaside town of Blokhus in Denmark has created the world’s tallest sandcastle, which is a record of a kind. The castle stands tall at 21.16 metres tall and weighs nearly 5000 tonnes

T

HE record for the most sandcastles built in an hour is 2230, set in Germany.

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 21

FEATURES

Lloyd bats on at 102

By CHRIS EARL

Lloyd Mills with sons Doug and Richard. LH PHOTO

LLOYD Mills this week achieved one of his highest scores in life.

The retired Mincha farmer who survived World War Two and batted on at the cricket crease until he was 81, marked his 102nd birthday at the property that has been in his family for five generations.

The century-plus two edges him behind the century that came with a six on a hot day decades ago for Mincha to claim a cricket win. For 30 years, he was Mincha’s opening batsman, never using gloves at the crease.

Another day he made 111 in the 1940s while his best hit in a career spanning more than 60 years was 115.

“I enjoyed my cricket,” Lloyd said at the weekend as he talked about life.

There was the time he was part of the world’s first game with all participants over 60 years, played at Brighton in 2003 Lloyd Mill was 81 at the time, Australia’s oldest registered cricketer, and one of two ex-servicemen from World War Two still playing cricket.

A year later, after having some years before crossed to the neighbouring Durham Ox club because they were short of players, Lloyd finally put his bat away. No more running between wickets, weighed down by shrapnel from the war.

Lloyd joined the Citizen Military Force in 1940 before enlisting in the Australian Imperial Force two years later.

He was first sent to Darwin, arriving days before the Japanese started bombing attacks in February 1942.

“The last part of the journey was in trucks making our way through scrub. There were no roads back then ... it was a nightmare,” Lloyd said.

“We went to Darwin with just five rounds of ammunition each to defend the place.”

With the AIF 6th Division, he was sent to New Guinea and Bougainville.

That’s where a squad was on patrol and a ground mine exploded.

“I’ve still got the shrapnel in the leg, I was blown off my feet.

I was at the rear with a machine gun,” Lloyd said.

He was demobbed in 1946 and

returned to the family farm at Mincha where he produced fat lambs for wool and grew crops.

Sons Richard and Doug said the property had been wool based with Lloyd adding: “It’s been pretty successful.”

It was only five years ago that Lloyd stopped driving and still reads newspapers without glasses nor is he on medication.

Lloyd has outlived his siblings.

Twin brother Richard died of a brain tumour aged 10, Bruce of

cancer aged 43 and elder sister Jean lived to 98.

“I’ve never smoked ... even those years in the Army I never smoked,” he said.

Back before the over 60s cricket match in 2003, Lloyd admitted to one writer that it had been “a good while” since he made a hundred himself, but he did wind back the clock a few years ago by opening the batting for Durham Ox, and sharing a first-wicket partnership of 50.

“There’s life in the old legs yet,” he said at the time before meeting sporting legends Herb Elliott, Bill Lawry and Shane Warne.

Richard and Doug said their father retained a great knowledge of a life that started 102 years ago in Pyramid Hill.

And he enjoyed Tuesday’s special family celebration when daughter Deborah visited.

Lloyd again recalled stories of his 102 years and as the Loddon’s oldest resident.

Lloyd reflects on life during the 2011 floods when water surrounded the family home and (right) as a soldier during World War Two.

22 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

DEATH noticeS

public noticeS

COLLINS Geoffrey Robin “Robbie” Passed away peacefully 26th December, 2023, and Bendigo Hospital.

Aged 84 years.

Loved Husband of Margaret for 63 years.

Loved Father of Julie, Pam and Robyn.

Father-in-law to Chris, Tony and Charley.

Loved Grandpa Robbie to Kate, Scott, Alexander, Alisha, Monique, Corey, Rochelle and Jack.

Loved Great Grandpa Robbie to Harry and Jack.

Robbie was the Son on Sadie Murphy ad Fred Collins and Brother of Terry and Murphy (all dec.).

Robbie was loved and will be sadly missed by all xoxoxo In accordance with Robbie’s wishes, a private Service has been held.

Garrick (Gazza) Rodney Meadows 8.12.1938 - 6.1.2024 Loved husband to Bev. Father to Rodney, Maree and David Father-in-law to Katie, Russell and Annie.

Stepfather to Michelle, Russell and Julie.

Pa to Jarod, Micah, Sophie, Jarman, Scott, Declan, Seamus and Molly Great Pa to Poppy, Violet and Juniper.

Big Brother to Bruce (dec) and Delwyn.

Rest in Peace A memorial service for Garrick will take place on Tuesday 23rd January 2024 at Murrindindi Chapel, 21 Johnston Street Alexandra,3714 Commencing at 1pm

PUBLIC NOTICES

Yung Balug Keeping Place The Museum is situated on the property of Paul & Cathie Haw. Well worth a visit to see the amazing Artefacts collected from the Boort Region.

A recent addition is 34 photos taken by John Hunter Kerr in the 1850s. This was made possible by the State Library of Victoria.

Everyone is welcome. but please call or Email before visiting.

Phone - 0417 333 171 Email - paulcathiehaw@gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT The Inglewood Town Hall Committee is looking for EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST for those who would be interested in participating in a Deb Ball hosted at the Inglewood Town Hall in 2024

DECLARATION OF BOATING ACTIVITY EXEMPTION Loddon Shire Council as the declared waterway manager for Loddon River (at Bridgewater between Flour Mill Weir and Sweeneys Lane), makes the following declaration under section 203(3) of the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic).

For the purposes of boating activity conducted by the Bridgewater Water Ski Club Inc, persons and vessels involved in the 2024 Australian Masters Waterski Championship are exempt from the following requirements: State Rules made under the Marine Act 1988 1. Clause 2(a) – must not exceed 5 knots within 50 metres of a person in the water 2. Clause 2(c) – must not exceed 5 knots within 50 metres of another vessel Waterway Rules made under the Marine Safety Act 2010 / Marine Act 1988 3. Clause 62.2 of Schedule 62 – 5 knot speed restriction within waters not specified as Exclusive Use and Special Purpose Areas between Flour Mill Weir and Sweeneys Lane.

4. Clause 62.6(a) of Schedule 62 – Exclusive Use and Special Purpose Area for Slalom and Ski Jumping - modified to allow for trick skiing.

5. Clause 62.7(d) of Schedule 62 – Operating times for the Exclusive Use and Special Purpose Area for ‘Water Skiing’.

Marine Safety Regulations 2023 6. Regulation 66(3) – Persons on vessels must wear a lifejacket of type specified at all times when underway on inland waters 7. Regulation 69 – A person being towed must wear a lifejacket.

8. Regulation 70(1) – Master must ensure all occupants of vessel wear a lifejacket.

9. Regulation 70(2) – Master must not tow person unless wearing lifejacket Subject to the conditions detailed below:  Masters of participating vessels are only exempt from items 1 & 2 when undertaking rescue responsibilities to retrieve persons in distress, provide for their initial medical or other needs and deliver them to a place of safety on shore.  Masters of participating vessels are only exempt from items 3 to 5 for the duration of the events.  ‘Trick’ skiers being towed are only exempt from items 6 & 7 provided they wear a bright coloured top.  Masters of participating vessels are only exempt from items 8 & 9 when towing water skiers who are participating in trick events, and when retrieving waters skiers who are participating in trick events and exempt from wearing a lifejacket.  All persons on vessels and skiers associated with the event must wear a lifejacket (unless exempt from item 7 in accordance with these conditions), and vessels must have all prescribed safety equipment, including rescue vessels.  Should vessels or persons not involved in the event enter the exclusion zone, the event must be stopped until the unauthorised vessel or person has moved outside of the zone.  The exemptions apply from 7:30am to 7:00pm on 26 – 28 January 2024 within the exclusion zone waters of the Loddon River between the Calder Highway Bridge and the boat ramp at Sweeneys Lane.  The exemptions apply provided the stated safety controls and undertakings detailed in the application form and associated documentation are adhered to.

By Order of Loddon Shire Council Dated: 5 January 2024

EVER WANTED TO MAKE YOUR DEBUT?

Not your traditional Deb Ball Date will be set between Jun-Dec 2024 No Age limit (min age 16) Spaces will be limited More information will be provided at a meeting for all interested in early 2024

If this sounds like something you would be interested in then please email your details for more information to: Kirsten Ward inglewoodthh@gmail.com

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 difference and help shape our future.

Governance Coordinator – ref.J/251  Temporary, full-time position (until February 2025)  Band 6 salary range $87,987$95,316 per annum plus employer superannuation  Based at our Wedderburn office with flexible working arrangements available Applications for the position above will close Monday 22 January 2024 at 5pm.

Civil Design Coordinator – ref.J/248

Marine Safety Act 2010 Section 208(2)

NOTICE OF BOATING ACTIVITY EXCLUSION ZONE Loddon Shire Council as the declared waterway manager for Loddon River at Bridgewater hereby gives notice under section 208(2) of the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic) that all persons and vessels not registered to take part in the 2024 Australian Masters Waterski Championship are prohibited from entering and remaining in the following waters.

Waters of Loddon River at Bridgewater– between the Calder Hwy Bridge and Sweenys Lane Boat Ramp The exclusion zone will be in effect from 7:30am to 7.00 pm on 26 - 28 January 2024.

LODDON SHIRE COUNCIL Dated: 5 January 2024

wanted to buy WANTED TO BUY Old bottles with town or company names.

Marble bottles, Ginger Beer, Milk Bottles, Soda Syphons Any old bottles - single items or box lots CASH PAID ON DAY Phone 0452 264 661

 Full-time, permanent position  Band 7 salary range $97,998$108,878 per annum plus employer superannuation  Based at Council’s Wedderburn office Early Childhood Educator – ref.J/250  Temporary, part-time position  Based at our Boort service  Salary in line with the Early Education Employees Agreement 2020 Community Compliance Coordinator ref.J/242  Full-time, permanent position  Band 6 salary range $87,987$95,316 per annum plus employer superannuation  Based at our Wedderburn Office Community Compliance Officer- Tidy Properties- ref.J/244  Permanent position, with flexibility to offer full-time or part-time  Band 5 salary range $73,079.16$84,077.74 per annum plus employer superannuation  Based at our Wedderburn Office Municipal Building Surveyor – ref.J/99  Permanent, full-time position  Salary package negotiable.

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

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.

LODDON HERALD CLASSIFIEDS CONNECT WITH READERS ACROSS THE REGION

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 23

SPORT

for sale 2019 Franklin Arrow 19’6” Caravan - $63,990

Wool buyer Cash payments On-farm appraisals 92 Rowena Street, East Bendigo Ph 5406 0629

As new condition. Includes café seating, full oven and cooktop, Dometic three-way fridge and filtered water tap. Full ensuite with large shower, toilet and top load washing machine. Queen bed with under bed storage, wardrobes with drawers, Ibis Mk3 reverse cycle air conditioner, two 12-volt fans, LED lighting throughout, Winegard TV antenna. Full battery management system with two 170w solar panels. Gas heating, full annex with extra-large windows, anti-flap kit, custom made privacy screens. Factory extended chassis with toolbox on front, gas bayonet, full front tunnel, rear generator hatch, reversing camera and wiring harness. Two 95lt water tanks, one 95lt grey water tank. Always shedded.

Available April 4th, 2024.

Location -Charlton Ph 0418 323 940

LODDON VALLEY TENNIS Raywood 94 d Calivil North 87 MENS: M. Collins H. Wall d J. Sinclair L. Maxted 7-3. M. Collins A. Demeo d J. Sinclair C. Smith 7-3. A. Demeo H. Wall lost to L. Maxted C. Smith 5-7. P. Harris R. Haw lost to O. Balic D. Rogers 5-7. P. Harris T. Zahle d O. Balic J. Smith 7-4. R. Haw T. Zahle d D. Rogers J. Smith 7-1.

LADIES: C. Haw S. Demeo lost to M. Balic C. Rogers 0-7.

C. Haw B. Zuidema lost to M. Balic G. Maxted 1-7. S. Demeo B. Zuidema lost to C. Rogers G. Maxted 1-7. R. Demeo H. Vinnicombe d A. Lister S. Lister 7-6. R. Demeo M. Ludeman d A. Lister M. Smith 7-3. H. Vinnicombe M. Ludeman d S. Lister M. Smith 7-1.

MIXED: C. Haw R. Haw lost to M. Balic J. Sinclair 0-7.

S. Demeo M. Collins lost to L. Maxted C. Rogers 5-7. B. Zuidema H. Wall d C. Smith G. Maxted 7-1. R. Demeo A. Demeo d O. Balic A. Lister 7-6. M. Ludeman P. Harris d D. Rogers S. Lister 7-6. H. Vinnicombe T. Zahle d J. Smith M. Smith 7-3.

Serpentine 93 lost to Yarrawalla 101 MENS: J. Gladman S. Tuohey lost to D. Mann L. Forster 5-7. J. Gladman S. Howard d D. Mann H. Emmerson 7-4.

S. Tuohey S. Howard d L. Forster H. Emmerson 703. C. Tuohey A. Mountjoy d R. Broad R. Forster 7-4. C. Tuohey D. Addlem d R. Broad X. Emmerson 7-2. A. Mountjoy D. Addlem d R. Forster X. Emmerson 7-4.

LADIES: H. Addlem P. Cockerell lost to E. Prout C. Emmerson 2-7. H. Addlem T. Sutherland lost to E. Prout I. Broad 4-7. P. Cockerell T. Sutherland d C. Emmerson I. Broad 7-4. N. Rose T. Twigg lost to K. Broad C. ChallisBroad 4-7. N. Rose M. Twigg lost to K. Broad T. Broad 5-7. T. Twigg M. Twigg lost to C. Challis-Broad T. Broad 1-7.

MIXED: J. Gladman P. Cockerell lost to L. Forster E. Prout 5-7. S. Howard T. Sutherland lost to D. Mann C. Emmerson 3-7. S. Tuohey H. Addlem d H. Emmerson I. Broad 7-6. C. Tuohey N. Rose d R. Broad K. Broad 7-5. A. Mountjoy M. Twigg lost to R. Forster C. Challis-Broad 1-7. D. Addlem T. Twigg d X. Emmerson T. Broad 7-6.

LADDER

LODDON HERALD CLASSIFIEDS CONNECT

ADVERTISER HERE - $66 A MONTH

Mincha West Calivil Nth Raywood Dingee Serpentine Yarrawalla Lake Meran

3.95 3.35 3.00 2.39 2.11 2.00 0.50

152.14 111.70 100.13 107.72 89.24 83.81 62.98

24 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

PRIZES FOR OUR YOUNG READERS ... COLOUR IN BIG FOOT FOR CHANCE TO WIN GREAT BOOKS Bluey says hello to all the young readers of the Loddon Herald ... with special activities on our young reader’s page this month.

Make sure you pop your entry in to us by February 11 for the chance to win great book prizes from Bluey and add to the holiday enjoyment.

Send your entries to Bluey, Loddon Herald, PO Box 1188 Kangaroo Flat 3555 or email loddonherald@gmail.com And remember to include your name, age and address so Bluey can pick the right prizes for our lucky winners of the colouring competition.

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 25

SPORT

Ryan McGee goes sun-smart for the Sunday training session. LH PHOTOS

Mitch Buchanan evades Harry Weaver and Brodie Arnold in a defensive drill.

Four-quarter aim for big recruiters A HUGE off-season for Boort Football Club started to come together on Sunday when a bevy of recruits hits the training track.

More than a dozen names, many with VFL and major metropolitan and country league experience, will don the Black and White for the 2024 North Central season.

The aim is simple: improve on the two wins and a draw of last year that saw the Pies competitive for a quarter, two or even three terms under new coach Dale Cameron.

Striving for the fitness that was a redeeming hallmark of 2023, the Pies kicked with a timed run of Little Lake Boort and then into the business of improving defensive skills.

Boort has recruited to boost performance up and down and the field. Will Perryman is back in the nest after two season with Pyramid Hill where he was pivotal in the Bulldogs’ senior performances, only to be dropped for the Loddon Valley league grand final last September as the Dogs juggled their points cap.

Also returning home is James Keeble, a member of the Pies’ last flag side in 2008, and having a career that has included Bendigo Pioneers and the VFL. Former Brisbane Lion and VFL player with North Ballarat is among the big name recruits who trained on Sunday, expected to make an impact in the midfield.

Jhye Baddeley-Kelly is another playing coming out of VFL ranks after a stint with Coburg.

Versatile Nick Clydesdale has been recruited from Seymour after a lining up with Strathfieldsaye in the Bendigo. Clydesdale is being touted for his versatility to play defence and up forward.

Other key signings are midfielder Nick Whyte from Alice Springs, forward Mitch O’Donoghue from Forrest Hill, Malachi Coleman from Castlemaine, Wade Broadstock from Colbinabbin and ruckman Viv Oldfield.

Departures are few the biggest seeing ruckman Nathan Twigg return to Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

Jacob Coleman

Ex-VFL player Jhye Baddeley-Kelly has signed with the Pies.

Nick Clydesdale weaves the ball through James Keeble and Malachi Colman.

- CHRIS EARL

Will Perryman returns home after a stint with Pyramid Hill.

Jarrod Fitzpatrick is among key Pies returning in 2024.

New recruits Wade Broadstock and Matt Austin.

26 | Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024

SPORT

Joyce Ray rolls the kitty at Calivil

Simon and Brian Tuohey were among father-son combinations at Serpentine. LH PHOTO

Woodies hoping for better second half

BENDIGO playing group bowls resumes from the break this weekend with premier league side Inglewood hoping for a change in fortunes.

The Woodies have faltered against most teams as they rebuilt form and blooded new players for the season’s opening rounds.

They now have the chance to solidify that progress with strong showings coming back from the break.

Inglewood will meet Bendigo East in Sunday’s premier league round and follow up next Thursday when the top division matches will be played, the Woodies drawn to meet Golden Square who sits only a place higher on the ladder.

Division 4 has all eyes on Calivil and Dingee who have had a dominating first half of the season.

Dingee is currently in third spot and travels to Harcourt on Saturday while current top side Calivil will be at home to fourth side Woodbury on Saturday.

A stumble would see the Demons knocked off top spot.

CALIVIL The new Calivil synthetic bowling green was officially opened on New Year’s Day at the club’s annual mixed fours tournament.

President Graham Maxted welcomed bowlers and past members and outlined the process leading up to the installation of the new green.

Serpentine’s Gordon Addlem. LH PHOTO

Loddon Shire Terrick Ward councillor Dan Straub declared the green officially open.

Joyce Ray, a club life and foundation member, rolled the Jack.

Barry Meighan a life member and groundsman for many years, rolled the first bowl putting it right on the Jack to the applause of the crowd.

The winning team on the day was John Jackman, Vicky Tierney, Pam Kelly and Lindsay Kelly. Runners-up were Helen Gronow, Carolyn Mitchell, Keith Richards and Des Fiedler

NORTH CENTRAL North Central mixed pairs finals were played at Boort on Sunday.

Semi finals: A Marland-S Elliott (St Arnaud Country) defeated Colleen Roberts-Peter Waters (Boort); Jeannie and Jonathon Grylls (Wycheproof) d Robina Little-Bob Montebello (Wedderburn). Final: A Marland-S Elliott d Jeannie and Jonathon Grylls.

North Central playing area mixed pairs finals at Boort on Sunday featured players from the local club and also Wedderburn.

SERPENTINE THE annual open fours tournament was hosted by Serpentine Bowling Club on Sunday.

The event had been rescheduled because of weather from the previous week and saw the Rochester team of Bert Smonelaars, Graeme Willis, Rob Clayton and Tim Quinland (s) take honours. Runners-up was the team of Inglewood and Serpentine players of Robbie Day, Geoff Wilson, Ken Collins and Bruce McClymont.

Boort’s Peter Waters and Colleen Roberts are pictured (above) discussing tactics to win their end.

Bob Montebello (left) sends down his shot in the semi final against Wycheproof.

LH PhOTOS

PENNANT BOWLS RESULTS BENDIGO Division 1 – South Bendigo 71-16 d Inglewood 48-0. D Sherman, J Rooke, G Ryan, D Rowley d B McClymont, H Leech, D Wilson, L Witham (s) 2113. J Adams, C Adams, D Conley, W White (s) d M Chamberlain, B Taig, A Caserta, I Chamberlain (s) 25-20. S Driesen, M Houghton, T Zimmer, T Marron (s) d D Garrett, D Vanston, L

Kelly, R Day (s) 25-15. Ladder: South Bendigo 122, Kangaroo Flat 104, Inglewood 88, Eaglehawk 88, Bendigo 78, Golden Square 62, Bendigo East 60, Woodbury 38.

S Hope (s) d M Thompson, F Ayres, S Wilkinson, J Emerson (s) 24-11. I Mansbridge, L Dennis, N Ralphs, C Mitchell (s) lost to E Wagnitz, V Lisle, W Pell, S Bryan (s) 9-37.

Division 4 – Calivil Serpentine 58-14 d North Bendigo 56-2. B Meighan, J Wiltshire, L Lister, D Walker (s) d R Pettit, M Gorrie, J Warfe, H Hall (s) 25-8. R Boyd, J Clymo, K Richards,

Dingee 55-14 d Kangaroo Flat 52-2. K Pollock, P Plant, F Grieves, M Grieves (s) d B Lynch, L Cattlin, B Scollary, C Verbeek (s) 17-14. T Kavanagh, K Murphy, B West, S Cail (s) d W Caine,

C Wiegard, I Vogele, E Caine (s) 25-15.

N Thomas, S Lawry, Leo Demeo, Lyn Demeo (s) lost to D Johnson, H Hornstra, B Smith, A Ferguson (s) 13-23.

Ladder: South Bendigo 142, North Bendigo 111, Kangaroo Flat 96, Dingee 94, Harcourt 61, Strathfieldsaye 53, Calivil Serpentine 48, Golden Square 35.

Division 5 – Bendigo 27-0 lost to In-

glewood 57-14. M Kelly, M Mitchell, C Runnalls, V Greenwood (s) lost to C Leach, D Roberts, A Harrison, P Kelly (s) 14-21. K Rhodes, P Keil, B Bell (s) lost to E Patterson, P McEwan, P Lyndon, D Whitehead (s) 13-36.

Ladder: South Bendigo 114, Bendigo 101, Inglewood 85, Campbells Creek 60, Bendigo East 53, White Hills 52, Harcourt 51, Golden Square 44.

Loddon HERALD Thursday January 18, 2024 | 27

Simpson beats lush field and a slow start

MIDDLE order batsman Kyle Simpson has steered Kingower to a commanding win over Arnold.

His top knock of 71 saw five sixes and five fours belted around over the the lush Arnold ground on Saturday.

Cut just days before, rains and humid temperatures had seen grass growth in the outfield for the association’s resumption of play after the Christmas break.

Simpson said he had been a bit rusty when coming to the crease and Kingower sitting at 2/12.

“It was definitely a slow field today and that meant hitting the ball harder,” he said after being stumped by Arnold keeper Phil Scholes.

Simpson took Kingower’s score to 141 before the 33rd over dismissal. His first score was a boundary and then after settling, made intentions clear. Michael Dale was the only Arnold bowler to temporaliy curb Simpson’s power.

Scholes finished with two

stumpings and two catches for the innings but Kingower was clearly in control.

Arnold was immediately in trouble when opener Scholes was dismissed early. He had found the boundary with the first ball and next caught by Will Deason after nicking a Jayden Leach delivery.

Bowling honours were shared around the Kingower bowlers and only four Arnold batsman made it to double figures - Henry McCullough, Alan Davies and youngsters Kale Hewett and Cam Hancock.

Saturday’s season resumption was the first round missed by association secretary Michael Rose. MIchael was out of action at home but it expected back on deck this Saturday.

The other match saw Boort Yando receive the points after a forfeit by Wedderburn.

This week’s games: Arnold v Boort Yando, Wedderburn v Kingower.

Kyle Simpson in smashing form for Kingower on Saturday. LH PHOTO KINGOWER LOST TO ARNOLD Kingower M. Rowe st. P. Scholes b. C. Hancock . . 14 W. Deason c. F. Lock b. H. McCullough . . 8 J. Leach c. M. Dale b. F. Lock ................ 36 K. Simpson st. P. Scholes b. C. Dale ..... 71 L. Dejong c P. Scholes b. F. Lock ............. 4 T. Fishlock c P. Scholes b. C. Dale ........... 3 N. Leach c. B. Metelmann b. H. McCullough ..1 I. Johnstone-McCloud not out ................. 0 B. Rose not out ........................................ 4

Extras ....................................................... 4 Total ........................................... 7/145 Bowling: H. McCullough 5-1-1-14, M. Dale 7-2-1-28, F. Lock 7-1-2-35, C. Hancock 7-21-21, K. Hewett 6-0-0-41, C. Dale 3-1-2-6.

Arnold P. Scholes c W. Deason b. J. Leach ......... 4 C. Anderson c. R. Smith b. M. Rowe ....... 4 H. McCullough c W. Deason b. L. Dejong ... 13 C. Dale lbw L. Dejong . ............................. 0 C. Hancock b. K. Simpson . ................... 10

Eagles take side door to league switch MAIDEN Gully is pushing ahead with plans to have its under 18 side in the Bendigo Football League this season despite rejection last month by the AFL commissioners.

The latest bid was confirmed with statements to some media outlets last week by the Maiden Gully junior club.

Maiden Gully YCW clubs have separate senior and junior entities and now wants the junior club approved for entry into the Bendigo league.

Loddon Valley league had successfully appealed Bendigo’s acceptance of the senior club application and was unaware of the latest plans when they were announced.

President Simon Tuohey said last week the

league still wanted Maiden Gully to field an under 18 side in the local competition.

Maiden Gully has stood out of local junior ranks for two seasons but had cited youth pathways for bids to switch leagues.

The Eagles had originally wanted to head into Heathcote league but after being rejected, launched efforts to be accepted by the Bendigo league.

Maiden Gully junior club president Mick Sheahan has not responded to Loddon Herald inquiries on the club’s latest move.

However, club sources last year told the Loddon Herald there would be an under 18 side this season “but don’t back it being in Loddon Valley”.

As reported in the Loddon Herald last year, the Eagles’ junior push is tied to ultimately seeing its senior teams become Bendigo’s 10th club.

Loddon Valley will take back running of the local juniors this season after the oneyear experiment of an AFL Central Victoria competition failed to attract teams from other leagues.

Bridgewater, Inglewood, East Loddon, Pyramid Hill and Marong are expected to again field junior sides with Newbridge recruiting over summer for the Maroons’ return to the competition after missing three seasons.

- CHRIS EARL

M. Dale c. B. Rose b. M. Rowe................. 2 K. Hewett c. K. Simpson b. J. Leach ..... 17 F. Lock c. J. Leach b. K. Simpson . .......... 1 A. Davies not out .................................... 14 H. Lock not out . ....................................... 8 Extras ....................................................... 5 Total ............................................. 8/78 Bowling: J. Leach 7-0-2-22, K. Simpson 7-2-2-11, L. Dejong 7-2-2-16, M. Rowe 7-2-2-8, I. Johnstone-McCloud 3-1-0-12, R. Smith 3-0-0-7, T. Fishlock 1-0-0-2.

Georgia’s best GEORGIA Hancock has returned her career-best bowling figures at Northern Rivers junior country week cricket.

The Arnold and Kangaroo Flat cricketer bowled for the Bendigo association’s under 14 side in one day of the rain-affected tournament.

Georgia bowled just 1.4 overs, claiming two wickets and conceding just seven runs. She had two of Goulburn Murray’s tailenders out for ducks.

Loddon HERALD

sport

Thursday January 18, 2024

MARATHON GIRL Isaac within reach of sub-three hour time

MOUNTAIN Queen Carly Isaac is within reach of running a marathon in under three hours.

The star Boort netballer was jubilant after finishing second in the 42km Cadbury Marathon in Hobart this month.

Carly made her way around the hilly course in three hours, 16 minutes and 10 seconds - 20 minutes behind the winner but a clear 15 minutes ahead of the next runner.

“The course was super hilly and not something I am really used to,” she said. “The last 500 metres was all uphill and two times more difficult than Wycheproof,” said Carly who won the Mount Wycheproof Queen of the Mountain race last September.

More than 100 women contested the New Year marathon in Hobart where Carly improved on her last marathon time by almost five minutes.

“That was in Noosa last year and I’m now setting myself to head back there at the end of May with the aim of getting a

sub-three hour time,” she said.

“That’s the plan, to go better than the personal best I ran in Hobart.”

Carly trained up to 20km a night in the weeks leading up to Hobart on flatter country around Boort.

“There were a lot of weeks - about seven weeks - when I would easily do 100km in a week but there wasn’t enough hill training for the Hobart course!” she said.

“I arrived in Hobart the day before the race to check out the course and do a light run and just got straight into it on the day.”

Carly describes her nightly training routine as “competitive fitness ... always trying to improve my times”.

And after a “cruisier week” recovering from the marathon, Carly says she’s now back into routine that includes preparation for the North Central netball season.

She will again be a key part of Boort’s A Grade lineup, hoping to go one better in 2024 and claim the flag.

Carly Isaac runs a personal best time in the Hobart marathon.

Dickie lends top runners his ear and wisdom Dickie with runner John Hilditch

RUNNERS at Maryborough on New Year’s Day had the benefit of relaxation massages from Fentons Creek’s Dickie Stephenson.

He is back on the professional running circuit helping athletes in the final preparation for races after the COVID hiatus.

Dickie has been providing the massages and a friendly ear for conversation at running and cycling events since 2013.

“It all started at Maryborough that New Year’s Day after I had been in hospital recovering from a stroke - I wasn’t meant to live - and the massages were initially part of my rehabilitation,” he said.

“I had previously been a sports trainer for local footballers.

“If the runners have a sore spot, I try to fix it for them.

Dickie said there was satisfaction when runners who had been on the massage table went out and claimed major events at athletics meetings. “There have been a few over the years.”

“And we talk about lots of things, about life and being mentally prepared for the next race or the next race meeting,” Dickie said.