Loddon Herald 18 May 2023

Awareness at pink high

GOALS were kicked for breast cancer awareness in Boort on Saturday when netballers hosted their Pink High Tea.

Pearl Muller, Abby Potter and Bridget Perryman were among the first in the door for the fundraiser designated the North Central league club’s pink round.

The teenagers, who had earlier been on the netball court in special pink livery, joined seasoned sports supporters enjoying pinktopped cupcakes while also hearing breast cancer survivors share stories of their experiences and journey.

More than $2500 was raised for Breast Cancer Network Australia.

PICTURES - PAGE 15

PAINFUL PILL

PHARMACISTS could struggle to fill new two-month patient medications prescriptions.

They fear an already short supply of many medications will worsen under a new Federal Government’s new policy to change single scripts from 30 to 60 days.

“Unless the Federal Government provides a guarantee that no patient and no community pharmacy will be worse off un-

der their new medicine policy then millions of people in every single community in Australia will be worse off,” said Pharmacy Guild of Australia president Trent Twomey said.

Mr Twomey’s warning has been echoed by Loddon pharmacists Kal Selwanes and Emad Sidhom.

They said the Government‘s $3.5 billion cut would impact patients and their ability to get medicine, advice and services from local pharmacists.

“The supply network is already shaking, and the Government knows there is already short supply of some medications,” said Mr Selwanes, owner of Inglewood Pharmacy.

Mr Selwanes said more than 300 medications out of stock in Australia.

He said patient medication needs can change within a twomonth period and without more regular contact with patients, health risks could emerge.

“We don’t want to see waste when people have to change their medication,” he said.

Mr Sidhom said: “Medication needs can change in a monthdiabetes and blood pressure are not stable conditions. “At the moment (30-day script dispensing) we are always seeing the patient and following up that they are using their medication.”

“If we have to carry double the stock, there’s also a risk of it losing value. It becomes a stock

management problem with price fluctuations,” he said.

Mr Selwanes and Mr Sidhom said the Government had promised to re-invest in community pharmacies “but we haven’t seen any detail”.

They said the national $3.5 billion cut would impact patients and their ability to get medicine, advice and services from local pharmacists.

CONTINUED PAGE 5

Former Greyhound hobby farm Circa 1956, 2 BRM & fully self-contained unit. Lounge gas heating/split system. Kitchen has Pantry Dishwasher Gas stove & bakers’ oven, Ceiling fans throughout. 2nd BRM has built-in beds/wardrobe. Laundry &

AP PHOTO

WE held over one Bradley of Boort sign from a few weeks ago waiting for the right moment. We thought that after Mother’s Day weekend, his analogy of happiness with bacon and chocolate turns out the ideal time to give it a run in OTF. Chocolates sure are a welcome present to mums at any time and reminds us of some now young adults who always wanted to buy a big box as mum’s treat back in their early school days. Why a big box? Being brought up such caring and sharing types, there was a fair bet mum would get to enjoy one or two!

BACON and egg rolls are always a great start to the day and volunteer vendors at the football do a roaring a trade. We’re just not sure if The Oracle (he of keeping head low fame in recent weeks) tucked into any after being dispatched to the far north of Loddon Valley to umpire early matches on Saturday. The question on the minds of colleagues was whether, having to leave before the crack of dawn, he had time for toast or cornflakes at bis southern ranch. We hear that may have been the question when so-called friend the Cockerell, elevated to chief whistle blower in the senior game, planned to rock out at half-time in the reserves to provide a critique on performance. Who can hear it now: Two egg and bacon rolls before the game? Just one. That explains the sluggish performance!

AN EGG and bacon roll can go by many names. In parts of the United Kingdom and New Zealand as: A bacon butty, bacon bap or bacon sarnie, and in parts of Ireland as a rasher sandwich. A bacon butty has been described by one food website as Bacon butty is one of Britain’s most popular guilty pleasures, a sandwich consisting of slices of white bread (or a bread roll) spread with butter and stuffed with large amounts of bacon. Some like to add ketchup, brown sauce, or an egg to the sandwich, depending on personal preferences. Butty is derived from butter. Any kind of filling can be put into a butty. The term is common in some parts of Scotland and northern England - slang, of course, for sandwich.

NOT quite the same meaning though over in Wales where the word butty is used to refer to a close friend or buddy. It is derived from the Welsh word bwthyn, which means “cottage” or “small house.” The word butty originally referred to someone who lived in a small house or cottage, but it has come to mean someone who is a close friend or buddy.

BACK to chocolate - after indulging on bacon, a sweet sensation in the mouth is part of the indulgence. The history of chocolate, says Encyclopedia Britannica, can be traced back more than 3,000 years to the Maya, Toltec, and Aztec people who prepared a beverage from the fruit of the cocoa bean. The Maya considered chocolate to be the food of the gods, held the cocoa tree to be sacred, and buried dignitaries with bowls of chocolate.

Wazza’s wanderin’ back

RUOK? mental health ambassador and fundraiser Warren Wright will head towards Loddon communities after leaving Mildura yesterday.

“Wazza’s” return to the Loddon will be two years after travelling through the region.

He latest trek on foot and bicy-

cle will see him arrive in Charlton next Wednesday for an overnight stop before and end-of-day stop in Wedderburn on Thursday and then Bridgewater for a three-day rest on Friday.

Wazza will then head to Dunolly for an overnight stop before continuing to Portland.

Putting new king in the picture

REQUESTS are already being received by Mallee MP Anne Webster for prints of the official portrait released of King Charles.

The portrait was released following the King’s coronation this month. A spokesman for Dr Webster said it was unknown

when supplies of the official portrait would be distributed to MP offices.

Organisations can apply for one of the approved portraits and replace those of the late Queen Elizabeth still in display in halls across the region.

Wazza walks the Loddon two years ago. LH PHOTO

Lions back rural aged care

LIONS clubs across Australia have thrown their support behind a Wedderburn move to give elderly people in access to care in local rural communities.

The international service club’s Australian convention has adopted the policy that people have access to affordable care when they are unable to care for themselves at home.

Wedderburn Lions put forward the proposal as it continues a 12year campaign for an aged care facility in the town.

Chair of the club’s aged care project committee Jude Raftis said: “The policy approval means that Wedderburn Lions are another step closer to being able to conduct a national survey of all Lions clubs to establish the level of aged care in the towns they represent. In particular, this will be very useful having this information for rural areas.

“The collation of this data will provide a lens through which Lions can determine the need for aged care across the country.

“Wedderburn Lions has long argued that the lack of aged care

in Wedderburn is as much a national problem as a local one and it is considered that this data will prove this correct.

“In turn, we will have the evidence to approach federal and state politicians to lobby for change. It is anticipated that a number of other Lions clubs may also come on board once they become aware of the situation in their communities.”

Wedderburn Lions met with Ripon MP Martha Haylett during last November’s election campaign for a review of funding options for aged care in country communities and changes to transferring care packages from home services to supported residential services.

Jude said: “The political situation at present, as advised by Martha Haylett’s office, is that she is still awaiting information from the relevant state and federal ministers.

“Wedderburn Lions will continue to advocate on behalf of our elderly for appropriate aged care within our community as a basic human right,” she said.

Man in custody after thefts, overnight police hunt

POLICE have arrested a man after an overnight search sparked by an alleged attempted theft.

The overnight search by police in the Bridgewater area from last Thursday afternoon later saw a man, 33, arrested in the Hamilton area.

Senior Constable Mick Balazs said: “A lady had come home about 3.15 p.m. on Thursday. As she walked towards the house she

disturbed a male in her rear yard who decamped.

“Police attended and located his vehicle at the nearby Ampol service station and we seized this vehicle.

“The male was unable to be located and we believe he left the scene with an unknown other party. Later that same evening police believe the male was caught on CCTV at another property about 5km out of town.”

Senior Constable Balazs said a search was conducted with extra police patrols coming from Castlemaine and Maryborough overnight.

“It is suspected that the offender has then stolen a car some time overnight from an unoccupied rural property near where he was caught on CCTV,” he said.

Senior Constable Balazs said the man had been remanded in custody.

New deadline

THE State Government on Tuesday announced an extension for grant applications under its primary producer flood recovery package. The new deadline for assistance up to $75,000 is July 13.

Appeal total

MORE than $2800 has been raised by Wedderburn-Korong Vale RSL sub-branch through the sale of ANZAC tokens this year. Treasurer Owen Rule said the appeal had been supported by groups and businesses including Wedderburn College, Wedderburn Community House, Wedderburn News and General Store, 24 Karat Cafe and staff at Loddon Shire offices.

CFA leader farewelled FIRE brigade volunteers gathered in Pyramid Hill and Inglewood on Tuesday to view the funeral service of former District 20 operations manager Peter Taylor who died in Queensland after battling cancer.

Calivil fire

LOCAL firefighters extinguished a burning spreader truck engine on Prairie West road at Calivil on Monday. They were later called back to the scene when a passing motorist reported the vehicle, waiting for a tow truck to arrive, was a hazard.

Jude Raftis

• Your doctor can help if you have a minor injury and illness, need examination, need advice or referral to a specialist.

• Your pharmacist can provide assistance and medicines for minor illness.

• And there’s Nurse-On-Call (1300 60 60 24) for immediate, expert advice, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you need an interpreter, call 131 450 and ask for NURSE-ON-CALL.

volunteers. You are the lifeblood of the Loddon

and we are all so grateful for your

Fuming farmers pop up banners

FARMERS across the Loddon have started erecting banners as they ramp up protests against plans for 80-metre tall transmission towers through the region.

A group of St Arnaud young farmers has had banners produced, raising funds for a fighting fund ahead of Australian Energy Market Operator’s release of its final route for the VNI West 500 kiloVolt interconnector.

Among organisers of the effort is Stacey Kellar, daughter of fourth generation Wedderburn farmers and partner of a sixth generation St Arnaud district farmer.

Stacey said 100 banners had been rolled out in the initial production run, the first 20 selling within 48 hours.

Among buyers have been Mark and Fiona Hall who farm more than 1200 hectares at Wychitella.

“I couldn’t attend the Wedderburn forum but since listened to what was said by AEMO. At first I felt sad and helpless and felt like crying,” Fiona said.

“But by the end after listening to what other speakers had to say, I thought we had to fight this whether it is our property, the property next door or 30km away. They should be looking at alternatives. When I drove out of our gate this morning, I saw normal powerlines and thought how heart-breaking it will be if these large towers are erected.”

Stacey said younger farmers were concerned for their future equity in agricultural land and production. “Young farmers are quite passionate in sticking up for their land and their business,” she said.

In her submission to AEMO on its preferred route from Bulgana, near Stawell, running between

Wedderburn and Charlton and through Boort and Pyramid Hill to Kerang, Stacey said: “The biggest question for me as a healthcare worker – what is the impact going to be on the mental health of my loved ones? Not only now, but also our future generations.

“Mental ill-health and suicide rates among rural farming communities is already far too high. In Australia, male farmers die by suicide at rates significantly higher than the general population and non-farming rural males.

“Since news broke of these transmission lines, we have already begun to see the shortterm mental health impacts, with a significant shift in the mood amongst my loved ones. I cannot count the number of phone calls, text messages and conversations that have been exchanged. And

REGIONAL and rural communities were being asked to shoulder the burden of construction and hosting transmission, AEMO’s chief executive office has told a major conference.

CEO Daniel Westerman made the comment at the Committee for Economic Development of Australia’s Rewiring the Nation: Transmission - the votal link to net zero forum

Mr Westernman said that burden came for benefits shared with populations “hundreds of kilometres away, even interstate”.

“I have travelled to the regions where large-scale transmission is needed,” he said.

Pharmacist fear for prescription change

FROM PAGE 1

Mr Sidhom said the Office of Impact Assessments in a letter to the Health Department had already admitted analysis of the impacts on rural pharmacies were unclear and “are difficult to ascertain at this point of time”.

the tone of these conversations has certainly changed.

“There’s heightened worry and concern, scared about what this project will do. Farmers stereotypically known to show no emotion, are showing emotion loud and clear and it’s concerning. So how long will we be tormented with the project and how long will mental ill-health snowball before, and I feel nauseated at even writing it, the worst happens, and we have to say goodbye to a loved one?

“The utter negligence you at AEMO have shown towards the mental health of affected communities is horrendous. We are people.

“We are people working hard to provide food and fibre for our country. We deserve to be treated better.

“Heads are spinning as we try

“I travelled to Western Victoria to meet the community, where farmers are concerned about the impact of new transmission on their lifestyle and their livelihoods. Their concerns are genuinely held.

“What we must do is to put the processes and resources in place to hear and understand communities’ concerns, and come up with a better way to work together and benefit together.

“It is upon us all in the energy sector to build the relationships…and the social licence …that enables the infrastructure that enables

to understand what minimal information you are giving us, comparing this to the hear-say that is around, as well to the recent report written by highly accomplished professors saying this will all be a ‘monumental mistake.

“How are we to know what is right and what is wrong? How are we to make an informed judgement about these large projects?

“Have these concerns even been considered by yourselves at AEMO? Put yourselves in our shoes. If it was your family and friend’s livelihoods at stake, you’d do anything to protect them. Same goes in the country.

“We are a small but mighty community, and we look out for our mates and neighbours,” she wrote.

the energy transition to serve all Australians ... in this energy transition, people matter most.”

He said because achieving net-zero by 2050, the target of all Australian governments, a net-zero electricity grid was the first step to get there. “Transmission wires strung between towers may lack the glamour of smart phones, electric cars and other modern miracles, but they are fundamental to solving one of Australia’s greatest modernday challenges: the transition of our energy system to enable a net-zero economy.”

The office, part of the Prime Minister’s Department, said impact analysis would have benefitted from more recent public consultations on potential stakeholder impacts, particularly for small businesses and pharmacies in rural and remote areas.

Rural Pharmacy Network Australia said the office’s “adequate” assessment was one grade above “insufficient” and the minimum required for the Government to make changes.,

The Loddon pharmacists said changes to dispensing times for scripts could also see rural chemists review business structures.

“We currently provide many free services - preparing Webster packs is one,” said Mr Selwanes. “But these changes will mean pharmacies and patients are worse off and we may have to charge for some services.”

Mr Sidhom said the worst scenario would be rural pharmacies becoming unsustainable or being forced to reduce staff or opening hours.

“That is something I would be very reluctant to do,” he said.

Mark and Fiona Hall send a message to AEMO from their Wychitella farm as banners go up around the Loddon.

Kal Selwanes ... the supply network is already skaking with hundreds of medications out of stock. LH PHOTO

Emad Sidhom ... changes put pressure on rural pharmacies. LH PHOTO

AEMO boss says rural communities ‘shouldering the burden’

THE RAILWAY HOTEL

Cost pressures push food bank demand

JOHN Little was making a weekly trip to Bendigo Foodshare for supplies to re-stock shelves at two Loddon relief agencies.

That was until last year when demand outgrew the capacity of John’s utility and attached trailer.

Now a Bendigo Foodshare truck makes a delivery to Inglewood, one of six stops in Loddon communities for the central Victorian agency.

“Demand at Inglewood and Bridgewater for assistance has more than tripled in the last six months,” said community kitchen co-ordinator Faye Orange who oversees distribution in the two towns and is also assisting with the trial of a foodbank in Korong Vale.

Faye and John are making sure good stocks are on hand at foodbanks in the towns - the delivery from Bendigo and local donations.

“A lot of the food comes to Bendigo Foodshare and we have local people drop-

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ping off donations, sometimes fresh produce from their gardens,” said Faye.

Bendigo Foodshare chief executive officer Michelle Murphy said demand for relief food and household supplies had continued to rise since the start of COVID more than two years ago.

“People are experiencing pressures they have never experienced before,” she said.

“People are still impacted by COVID and the floods and the surge in cost of living.

“All these pressures are putting more families into food poverty.”

Michelle said COVID had sparked a 40 per cent increase in demand but that had been outstripped with a 65 per cent jump across Victoria in the past six weeks.

“Many of the people seeking help are employed. There’s a disproportionate percentage of sole parents,” she said.

Bendigo Foodshare is making fortnightly deliveries to Pyramid Hill, Boort, Inglewood and Dunolly - three pallets of food

to each community for distribution - as Michelle says the story is the same across central Victoria: “People are really struggling.”

Michelle said Bendigo Foodshare had received flood recovery funding to assist with buying and delivering food across the region.

“These funds have now finished and we have concerns that we will be able to maintain that capacity (for distribution) in coming months as demand is increasing,” she said.

“We are working hard to make sure we can stretch every dollar.”

Foodshare also has food relief partnerships with Wedderburn Community House and East Loddon P12 College and Pyramid Hill College.

They are among 73 kindergartens, schools and groups supported by Bendigo Foodshare in central and northern Victoria

A

Pool retention a top priority in community plan

IMPROVEMENTS and retention of Mitiamo’s swimming pool have been listed a top priority in the town’s new community plan.

Progress association officials Tracey Cox and Catriona Freeman last week briefed Loddon Shire on community aspirations for the next decade.

The association wants swimming pool opening hours retained, upgraded lighting and toilet facilities at the 60-year-old pool.

A call has also been made for upgraded drainage and maintenance at the corner of Haig Street and Echuca-Mitiamo Road, Mitiamo-Kerang Road and the corner of Patrick Street and Echuca-Mitiamo Road.

Tracey said: “After heavy rains, the gutters of Glossop Street are full of stag-

nant water for weeks which is a potential health hazard.”

A high priority under the plan is given to widening the sealed section of Joffre Street used by trucks delivering to the GrainCorp silos.

“Large trucks and other vehicle movement creates dust and is a potential health and safety risk,” the progress association said.

“There is a high risk of vehicle accidents due to shop business customer parking.”

Loddon Shire has also been asked to support community calls for better telecommunications connectivity.

“Our aim is to obtain better phone and internet coverage and improve the capacity of our residents and businesses to use technology,” Tracey said.

Improved water supply, town signage renewal, and maintenance of the town hall, now headquarters for East Loddon Historical Society have also been listed as high priorities under the new community plans.

John Little and Faye Orange stock up the food bank pantry in Inglewood. LH PHOTO

Progress association wants extended bitumen seal in Joffre Street.

What's news at IDHS?

Building Update

As our building site has limited our office space, we can see things starting to come together. Matt, IDHS maintenance manager, gave the following update this week. The framing has started in the student accommodation area. Recently the stormwater works, and the slab for the Gymnasium and treatment rooms were completed. The steel will arrive this week, for the Gymnasium and treatment rooms and construction will start soon.

Accreditation

The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS), Australia’s leading healthcare accreditation agency, has recognised the high quality care given to patients of Inglewood and Districts Health Service by awarding its accreditation through the National Safety and Qquality Health Service Standards.

April McKenzie Director of Clinical and Community Services said it is important to achieve accreditation as it confirms how a healthcare organisation provides safety and quality care to patients. ACHS accreditation sends a clear message to the community that Inglewood and Districts Health Service, its leadership team and staff, are committed to excellence in health care with a strong and continuous focus on safety and quality. We would like to commend all staff involved, as well as the consumers for their contribution, not only during the assessment and evaluation process, but also for their support and commitment to quality through continuing dialogue and improvement initiatives. Accreditation is used by health care organisations to continuously improve the quality of care they deliver to the community.

IDHS Community Garden Survey

IDHS is seeking to create a community garden, accessible to the community in the front of the hospital. The aim is to create an area for the community to gather and encourage healthy eating in our community. Please complete the survey through the QR code.

This survey asks about your experience and interest in participating in the gardening project. If you wish to be involved in this community project or be informed of its progress, please provide your name and contact details at the end of the survey. If you prefer to speak to someone rather than complete the survey online, you can call Cindy Gould at 0429043838.

Thank you so much to our Volunteers and Happy National Volunteers Week to all of our change makers!

Earlier in the week, staff and volunteers shared a lunch out in the beautiful autumn weather. This year's theme for National Volunteers Week is The Change Makers. IDHS appreciate everytrhing our volunteers do for our staff and consumers.

Accredited by The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards until April 2026

Historic hall doors close with big bill

THE historic Buckrabanyule Hall will close after committee members decided it could not raise the $300,000 needed to bring the 1909 building up to modern regulations.

Hall committee secretary Gunta Bisenieks said a Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action inspection last year had left the hall committee with a financial burden that prompted a public meeting last month.

“Unfortunately, the outcome of the public meeting to discuss hall’s future concluded with the decision to close the hall. Another rural community hall bites the dust,” she said.

“The main issue contributing to the closure of the hall was the financial burden expected over the coming years for major repairs to the hall - approximately $300,000 - to bring it up to regulatory standard according to an inspection report carried out by DEECA last year.

“No amount of standard grants would cover this amount nor would these grants be successful in every instance and the amount of funds required are beyond the scope of the hall’s current finances.

“Anyone interested in forming a new committee would inherit this financial issue. Needless to say, there were no volunteers

and not enough of them prepared to do so.”

Gunta said the public meeting had been attended by 10 people, including seven members of the final committee.

“Other issues affecting the closure was the diminishing usage of the hall by the community and, more to the point, the new CFA station that was built recently right next door to the hall which also acts as a community hub with space for meetings, a new kitchen and modern convenienc-

Stories of culture add colour to menu

COOKING workshops, storytelling and a celebration meal were on the menu when Regional Victorians of Colour arrived in Boort on Tuesday.

Boort District Health and Boort District School teamed to bring a Nepalese cultural experience to students in Years 4 to 6.

Clinical services director Mubarak Meera Sahib said the visiting program allowed the community to share cultures and perspectives.

He said a large multicultural community had emerged

within the Boort District Health workforce and Tuesday’s experience for students helped promote local diversity.

Regional Victorians of Colour is a collective of people of colour living in regional Victoria promoting that people of colour belong, are valued and can contribute to regional communities. We advocate for and promote inclusion and social cohesion through initiatives that centre the aspirations of people of colour in regional and rural Victoria.

es which conforms to contemporary building regulations.

“The hall has served the local community for 114 years and has held many events during that time and it is sad to see it slowly fall into disrepair,” she said.

“Progress has finally caught up with the hall and what eventually will remain will be a plaque to acknowledge the existence and location of the hall, heritage memorial gates, museum memorabilia and the fond memories of those who attended functions.”

Among the last committee members were (back) Joy Freeman, Peter Zabarauskas, George Grose and (front) Janet Richardson, Beth Crutch and Gunta Bisenieks

Students experience a cultural presentation on Tuesday.

Firies put out volunteer call

VOLUNTEER fire brigades across the Loddon have put out the call in National Volunteer Week for new recruits.

They are part of the Country Fire Authority’s Give Us a Hand campaign to grow its state-wide base of 52,000 communityminded members in protecting lives and property.

“We have a good base membership that continues to serve and protect our community,” said Serpentine brigade captain Neville Cockerell. “But we want to bring on the next generation of members.”

There are similar aims for growing volunteer numbers at Boort where captain Kel Mayberry said one of the current challenges for his brigade was volunteer availability during the day.

“We have active members aged from 17 to their mid-60s ... some work out of town and we would like to recruit more members to assist with day-time callouts,” he said.

“Not everyone has to jump on a truck. There are other roles in the brigade that can support us and the community.”

Mr Mayberry said communications and support roles were equally important in firefighting.

Bridgewater captain Tim Ferguson faces

similar challenges with daytime callouts.

“We always have a crew to send out on the truck but as more people move into the area, we are looking to recruit some to our brigade,” he said.

“My son Darcy is our youngest member at the moment. He goes to school in Bendigo where he is spreading the word about joining a CFA brigade ... they all live in Bendigo but if we can encourage young people to join a brigade no matter where they are, that’s great.”

Recruiting young members is also front of mind for Wedderburn brigade captain James Cook as he sets about boosting membership.

Mr Cook joined Wedderburn brigade seven years ago and was soon elected lieutenant before stepping up to the top position last year.

“I grew up seeing the brigade as an important part of the community and I joined for that very sense of community,” he said.

He is now talking with Wedderburn College about forming a junior brigade in the town and bringing in teenagers to learn not only firefighting skills but how to contribute to the community where they live.

Mr Cook said the sense of belonging and support was greatest when fighting fires.

Come and join us at the Victoria Hotel in Pyramid Hill

“The firefighting community is very good at looking after you and I think they have my back when out on a call,” Mr Cook said.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the CFA was a great place to volunteer, meet new people and learn new skills.

“Volunteers are the backbone of the firefighting and emergency response network across Victoria,” he said.

“We are calling on all community-minded individuals who are looking for a new challenge to consider joining their local brigade and apply their expertise and knowledge to CFA.

“Whether you want to jump on the truck and respond to incidents, or take up a brigade support position, we’ll find a role that suits you and your brigade.

“Brigades are most commonly looking for people from all backgrounds who have the capacity to take up roles as daytime responders and are particularly interested in hearing from young people who want to make a difference within their community.

“The rewards of being a CFA volunteer are immeasurable and our members make a real difference in their communities,” Chief Officer Heffernan said.

We offer classic pub meals, ice cold drinks, clean accommodation and a stocked bottle shop.

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Haylett announces grant for war memorial restoration

A NEW flagpole for Rheola’s war memorial is one of 55 grants announced by the State Government this week.

The $1760 grant to Inglewood-Bridgewater RSL sub-branch will see a replacement pole at the memorial and avenue of honour. Memorial gates at the recreation reserve entrance will also be regilded with grant money.

A community working bee last November started restoration of the previously neglected avenue and the town’s first ANZAC Day commemoration since 1978 was held last month.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett said: “This funding will help ensure we continue to honour the service and sacrifice of the veteran community.

“Our veterans have given so much to our communities and these grants will help ensure their legacy lives on for generations to come.”

“These works will allow the Inglewood/ Bridgewater RSL sub-branch to restore Rheola’s war memorial entrance, breathing new life into this community asset,” Ms Haylett said.

Wedderburn captain James Cook. LH PHOTO Bridgewater captain Tim Ferguson. LH PHOTO

Serpentine captain Neville Cockerell and brigade members gather last weekend discussing the membership drive. LH PHOTO

High voices in spiritual home return

OPERA was back in its 21st century spiritual home of Tarnagulla on Saturday.

But the Lyster Opera performance Monteverdi’s The Coronation of Poppea stayed connected to the days of Madame Carandini serenading miners of the district.

Dunolly’s Rachel Buckley was in character as the 19th century goldfields diva - really an English singer adopted a more continental name to attract fans in the district.

“She performed in Dunolly and around the district in the 1860s. She was a big opera singer, the Dame Nellie Melba of her time,” said Rachel who told the story of Poppea to a packed Victoria Theatre on Saturday afternoon.

“Madame Carandini followed the money and the gold. Goldminers knew their music and would pay to hear her.

“And I like to use real people in introducing modern audiences to our operas ... Madame Carandini fits will with this year’s season opening.”

Rachel said Lyster Opera had been coming to Tarangulla for more than six years and regarded the town as its spiritual home.

“Audiences are always kind and enthusiastic for our shows that pay homage to the old ways

- no microphones, no flash lights - these old halls were designed for the human voice,” Rachel said.

Saturday’s performance attracted an audience from across central Victoria in a boost for town cafes who served pre-show meals and refreshments.

Lyster Opera will return to Tarnagulla later this year.

Greg lands a top trail prize

INGLEWOOD artist Greg Holland has been awarded the $1000 Tiny Towns Arts trail prize for his oil painting displayed last month.

His work Can something be done about this consumption? was recognised for its high quality.

Greg was selected as the prize recipient by an independent Kay Parkin, former co-ordinator of Central Goldfields Art Gallery, and Kareen Anchen, director of Cascade Art Gallery Maldon, from a lineup of 24 works by local and regional artists.

Mural artist will

visit

MELBOURNE graffiti artist Lukas Kasper will work with Boort District School students designing and painting a mural over two days this month in a collaboration with North Central LLEN.

The Coronation of Poppea director Jamie Moffat and Rachel Buckley on the stage of Tarnagulla’s Victoria Theatre. LH PHOTO

Norma Condick and Dorothy Silk enjoy Sayurday’s performance.

Budget wait on cash for local projects

FLOOD rebuilding funding tops the list of Loddon hopes in next week’s Victoria Budget.

Loddon Mayor Dan Straub this month called for an acceleration in the flow of flood funds from the State Government.

Cr Straub’s call for flood funds and better investment in rural roads and services have been echoed by Murray Plains MP and Nationals leader Peter Walsh in the lead up to the Budget being handed down on Tuesday.

Mr Walsh said: “Cruel cuts to community health services have already been announced by the Andrews Labor Government, and important infrastructure projects are being delayed to prop up a sinking budget that has maxed out the public’s credit card.

“This budget will be a shocker, but regional healthcare services must be prioritised, especially after years of ongoing neglect.”

Community health services had been pushing for a significant increase in their funding.

And Northern Victoria MP Gaelle Broad said roads should be a driving force in the Budget.

“Many of our regional and rural roads are in poor condition,” Ms Broad said.

“We’re tired of dodging potholes, reduced speed limits, and sharing single lane roads with heavy transport vehicles,” Ms Broad said.

“Residents are being forced to pay for vehicle repairs and increased wear-and-tear on their cars because of the lack of state government investment in our roads.”

Ms Broad said she had spoken to local councils who are crying out for state government funding to maintain better roads, especially in flood affected areas.

While the Government made few specific commitments to Loddon communities during last November’s election campaign, there will be interest whether Treasurer Tim Pallas’ documents includes funding for the tranche of State Government child care centres to open, including one slated for the Loddon Shire.

Community consultation on the Loddon centre and its location has been promised this year ahead of a 2026 opening.

Treats for nurses on international day

THERE was cake in Boort and churros in Inglewood when Loddon health services celebrated International Nurses’ Day on Friday. Boort District Health held a special gathering to thank its nurses while at Inglewood, where 72 nurses are employed, a changeover of shift staff saw nurses tucking into freshly prepared churros.

The Inglewood celebration also saw nurse Narelle Guidice recognised for her five years on the health service staff.

Mandy Frankling, Kerrie Binns and Darcey Whitechurch celebrate International Nurses’ Day in Inglewood. LH PHOTO

April McKenzie presents Narelle Guidice with her award.

MUMS were the very special guests at Loddon hotels on Sunday for a family treat on Mother’s Day. Among those receiving thanks from family was Faye Moon who is pictured with the family at Pyramid Hill’s Victoria Hotel. Local shops were also busy over the weekend with sales of flowers for Mother’s Day.

Women’s big pink turnout

SPORTING arenas turned pink at Boort on Saturday for breast cancer awareness.

Footballers, netballers and hockey players wore pink socks donated by Boort Amity while women gathered for a pink high tea where breast cancer survivors Jo Haw and Theresa Jones spoke of their experiences.

Netball club president Roxy Train said more than $2500 had been raised for Breast Cancer Network Australia “and will keep adding to the total”.

“Playing at home against Wedderburn meant we were able to involve more people in raising awareness and supporting the network,” she said.

Community feedback on draft Budget

Council has resolved to seek feedback from the community on its draft 2023/24 Budget after consideration of the document at the April Council meeting.

The Loddon Shire Council draft 2023/24 Budget sees continuation of a strong cash position, with no new borrowings. It includes a commitment to the Community Planning program, as well as projects and initiatives included in Council’s various strategic plans.

The draft budget includes a rate increase of 3.5% – in line with the Victorian Government’s Rate Capping Policy.

The draft budget allocates a capital expenditure program of $10.73 million, which includes $5.53 million towards roads, $1.33 million for parks and streetscapes, and $750,000 for recreational, leisure and community facilities.

Additionally, the draft budget includes a $200,000 allocation for works associated with the Building Asset Management Plan and full funding of Council’s ongoing commitment to community planning of $750,000.

Waste service charges will increase by 3% per collection item, o setting increases in the cost of kerbside waste and

recycling disposal along with new licencing requirements. The cost of a 140-litre bin will increase to $401 (from $389) and a 240-litre bin to $545 (from $529). The cost for a 240-litre kerbside recycling bin will increase to $151 (from $147).

As the draft budget was developed during the recovery period of the 2022 major ooding events, the budget may change to respond to future ood relief and recovery e orts. Together with the draft 2023/24 Budget, Council is also seeking community feedback on a draft Fees and Charges Schedule for 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.

Feedback is open until 5pm tomorrow, Friday 19 May 2023.

Council will meet to consider feedback on the draft documents at the Council Forum on Tuesday 6 June 2023. It will then consider adoption of the Budget and Fees and Charges Schedule at its Council meeting on Tuesday 27 June 2023.

Online community meeting will discuss hooning

Do you have something to say about hooning in your local area?

The Department of Transport and Planning is hosting an online community meeting on Tuesday 23 May 2023 from 6pm to 8pm to understand local concerns about hooning in the Loddon Mallee region.

Feedback from the meeting will be used to inform the Department’s future approach to tackling hooning – or intentional high-risk driving – across Victoria.

The Department wants to hear from local voices to understand real-life experiences and ensure that local views are captured. This session will focus on what’s happening in the Loddon Mallee region and what the community would like to see done to address hooning.

The meeting is open to all, but availability is limited and booking is required – so get in quick to secure your place! For details go to www.eventbrite.com.au/e/hooning-community-engagement-session-loddon-mallee-region-tickets-528845179167

Lily Hosking, Sharlene String and Jane Hosking

Dede Williams, Louise Newsome and Gayle Zanker. AP PHOTOS

Courtney McCorist, Bailey Walsh and Sharni Hodoras

Pearl Muller and Hayley Stringer

Seated: Trish Whytecross, Jennifer McGhie, Margaret Piccoli, Gail Hogg and Carmel Allison. Standing: Carlene Darker, Brooke Chamberlain and Merryn Rees

Protest banner wraps tree

A NEW resident hopes to reverse community agreement on removal of a tree as Pyramid Hill’s new streetscape takes shape.

Kathryn Weeks and partner Al Keely last week draped a banner around the Kelly Street tree and started a petition to have it retained.

Ms Weeks, who said they were long-term ratepayers about to move to town, claimed local people had been in the dark about the tree’s fate.

“We only got here yesterday ... we came out of the shop and saw a big cross on the tree,” Ms Weeks said last Wednesday.

“I was then up all night making a ‘save the tree’ banner.

“The tree provides beautiful shade and the (new) crossing could be changed to make it closer to the toilets. There could be a beautiful seat at the side of the tree where people can rest.

“People have no idea the tree is going to be removed.

“The tree is so majestic ... we have to keep these trees alive,” Ms Weeks said.

She said the two-person protest

was “sticking up for the next generation ... trees keep up alive”.

Loddon Shire Council consulted with the Pyramid Hill community before final designs for the $1.58 million project.

The tree with branches overhanging shop verandahs was marked for removal as it is inconsistent with other tree species in the street.

Work is continuing in Lions Park and Kelly Park that will be linked by a new pedestrian crossing.

Council director 0perations, Steven Phillips said: “The tall pine tree near the shops in Pyramid Hill has long been the subject of requests for its removal. The streetscape renewal project will see it replaced with a more appropriate tree for the location.”

Community consultation started in December 2020 and continued through 2021.

A community meeting recorded there was consensus the pine tree “had to go and had quite a lot of support amongst the town as the works have been previously requested”.

Early car enthusiasts set Calder course north Road rebuilding

A 3KM section of PrairieRochester will be rebuilt under what the State Government has dubbed the third round of its emergency road repair blitz.

The road was damaged in October’s floods and the Government has allocated $3 million for work.

VINTAGE cars will hit the Calder Highway on Sunday when their motoring enthusiast owners set travel for Inglewood.

Members of three Victorian clubs will be taking part in their inaugural pre-World War Two motoring weekend when they arrive at Inglewood Recreation Reserve at lunchtime Sunday.

The rally by Vintage Drivers Club, Vintage Sports Car Club of Victoria and Veteran Car Club of Australia (Victoria) is part of three days of activities in central Victoria coinciding with national motoring heritage day on Saturday.

Vehicles on Saturday will be driven to Australia’s first notable

Safety grant bid on talk radar

TALKS will be held about Inglewood community putting in an application for a share of $600,000 in new road safety funding.

Inglewood Development and Tourism president Peter Moore said the committee would discuss whether to seek State Government funding to install speed check signs in Brooke Street.

Mr Moore and other community leaders have been campaigning for a reduced 40kmh speed limit through town since a B-Double rollover closed the Calder Highway on New Year’s Eve.

town Maldon while they will depart Inglewood the next day from Bendigo for the 41km drive along the Calder Highway to Bendigo.

Deb Roberts, of Cousin Jack’s Bakery, has been engaged to cater for drivers and passengers with locally-made pies, pasties and slices before they make the return trip.

The State Government last week announced the opening of its 2023 TAC road safety grants program giving “community groups the opportunity to identity road safety issues in their area and implement solutions, by coming up with a project to overcome them”. Transport Accident Commission CEO Joe Calafiore said: “Local road safety issues are often best dealt with at a local level, and community-based road safety programs are important in reducing road trauma.”

Doubts emerge on ward review enrolment figures

VICTORIAN Electoral Commission figures being used for a review of Loddon Shire boundaries could be incomplete.

Doubts have emerged in the past week that the current enrolments in each of the Loddon’s five wards do not include nonresident property owners who are also entitled to a vote in local government elections.

An analysis of figures released by the VEC last week shows substantially fewer voters on the roll than the 2020 elections.

A VEC spokesperson had said enrolments in each ward last month were: Boort 1187, Inglewood 1325, Tarnagulla 1027, Terrick 1202 and Wedderburn 1082.

However, VEC published figures from the 2020 election show there were 1401 voters on the roll in Boort, 1539 in Wedderburn, 1394 in Tarnagulla and 1417 in Wedderburn.

Terrick Ward was uncontested and the VEC has not published any data on that ward’s enrolment in 2020.

Current boundaries, that see two of the shire’s biggest town’s in Inglewood Ward, will be reviewed by the VEC for the first time since 2011.

New boundaries will be in place before the 2024 October elections with the ward enrolment variation no more than 10 per cent. Victorian Electoral Commission was contacted for comment.

Kathryn Weeks protests in Pyramid Hill last week.

Martha Haylett MP Labor Member Ripon for

Music hitches youngsters

YOUNGSTERS of all ages were in the groove for the Summerwave music tour in Loddon communities.

Performers headlined by Taylor Henderson took to the stage in Wedderburn last Friday and followed up with a concert in Boort on Saturday.

Northern District Community Health’s youth promotion worker Matthew Allan said: “The whole tour went off without a hitch! It was great to bring some fantastic acts to our local area and to show local youth what’s out there.

“We had a great response for the community,” he said.

The Summerwave tour that also played on Cohuna attracted youngsters at all ages - from primary and secondary students to young adults - enjoying music and dance in a safe and friendly setting.

Wedderburn’s touring opening show had groups arriving well before the first notes were played in the three-hour performances.

FREE Rapid Antigen Tests

Council is participating in the Victorian Government’s free Rapid Antigen Test program. FREE test kits are available to all community members.

A supply of free test kits can be collected at the below locations – we encourage you to collect some to have at home to use when you need them.

Locations Street address Town

Wedderburn Post O ce 70 High Street

Wedderburn

Inglewood Post O ce 85 Grant Street Nth Inglewood Bridgewater Post O ce 4 Main Street

Bridgewater

Boort Post O ce 75 Godfrey Street Boort

Pyramid Hill Post O ce 12-14 Kelly Street

Pyramid Hill

Tarnagulla Post O ce 101 Commercial Rd Tarnagulla

Newbridge Post O ce 36 Lyons Street

Dingee Post O ce 18 Mack Street

Mitiamo General Store 5 Jo re Street

Serpentine Post O ce 15 Peppercorn Way

Newbridge

Dingee

Mitiamo

Serpentine

Everyone can get up to 10 tests per person at a time. People with a disability and their carers can get 20 free tests at a time.

You can collect free test kits as many times as you need. If you run out of test kits, you can collect more to make sure you are prepared.

For more information visit the Victorian Government’s Coronavirus website: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/

Lucas and Charles George. LH PHOTOS

Stella Moss and Fiona Hickey

Libby Norman, Kathryn Norman, Chelsea Cunningham, Zac Slide and Junior Whyman

Emma and Angela Cooper

Zia, Marian and Aliana Zieni

Cassandra, Edward and Elizabeth Marr

Dominic Ross

Milk prices have firm landing zone - industry report

DAIRY producers can look forward to another favourable season with the sector set for its fourth consecutive profitable year, according to the annual Australian Dairy Seasonal Outlook.

Rabobank says in its outlook that while the upcoming season’s milk price will likely be lower than the “lofty highs” currently being offered across parts of the southern export region –reflecting the current downturn in the global commodity price cycle – there is a “firm landing zone” expected for new season Australian milk prices.

It says this is due to stronger domestic dairy market returns, a weak Australian dollar and “aggressive recruitment and retention strategies” by dairy processors in a competitive market for milk supply.

And these are providing a buffering effect to the full extent of global pressures, said report author, Rabobank senior dairy analyst Michael Harvey.

With the June 1 deadline approaching for minimum milk price offers from Austral

ian dairy companies, the bank is forecasting minimum offers for new season milk in southern Australia to be between AUD 8.50/kgMS and AUD 9.00/kgMS.

“At worst, this represents a 10 per cent decrease from 20222023 prices and a farmgate milk price that is well above the medium-term average for southern Australia since the introduction of the industry’s Dairy Code of Conduct in January 2020,” Mr Harvey said.

“Another season of historically-elevated milk prices will support farmgate margins.”

The report says there is “welcome relief” for dairy farmers from a recent record-high cost base, with lower prices for purchased feed and fertiliser flowing through balance sheets.

“Even if some dairy farmers see an easing in minimum price offers, this should come with cost relief,” Mr Harvey said.

However, the Rabobank Outlook warns, there will still be other cost headwinds on farm in 2023-2024 including higher interest rates with “labour is a major headache”.

THE market is still under pressure with five or six processors not even fielding buyers at Bendigo on Monday.

There was a cut to supply with just 9200 lambs and 2500 sheep, although quality was mostly on the plain side with the exception of a few runs of fed lambs.

All stock were cheaper with lambs another $5 to $20 off last Monday, but in reality this sale was not much worse than how the market was performing late last week.

Most of the better processing lambs showing reasonable finish and weight were between 600c to 650c/kg with just a few stand-out lines higher to around 680c/kg.

Secondary and light lambs did face a tough market and fluctuated in the 400c and 500c price brackets.

Export lambs sold to $228 for a pen estimated around 34kg cwt, but sales over $210 were limited.

The heavy 26-30kg crossbreds $170 to $204 to average around $184/head. Heavy trades $150 to

$180 and mediums $130 to $150, these domestic lambs trending between 610c to 640c.

Demand for light and secondary lambs continued to wane at $50 to $120 for the reasonable types, the poorest down to $5.

The sheep market was significantly cheaper with key buyers not active.

Heavy crossbred ewes $86 to $115 and Merino ewes to $102. The general run of reasonably presented sheep $40 to $80, but secondary lots under $20 at times.

Better mutton was in a range of 230c to 300c/kg cwt.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

PA Condely Lake Meran (47) $228, DJ & ED Lees Rochester (130) $222, Bridgewater Park Farming Bridgewater (206) $217, WF & SG Thomas Mitiamo (17) $215, DI Gitsham & Sons Kerang (40) $204, M Borger Colbinabbin (47) $204, R Shawcross Mitiamo (25) $191, Gregwin Ridge Boort (20) $190, Kellalac Past Newbridge (40) $189, Kellalac Past Newbridge (94)

g RA in Boort Grain Co-op prices Tuesday.

Wheat – H1 $358 FIS. H2 $347 FIS. APW1 $347 FIS. ASW $333 FIS. AGP1 $325 FIS. SFW1

$325 FIS. FED1 $305 FIS.

Barley - PL1 $328 FIS. SP1 $328 FIS. Bar1 $289 FIS. Bar2 $273 FIS. Bar3 $253 FIS JUNE. Bar4 $233 FIS JUNE.

Time for a home loan health check!

review

$188, JGK Past Dingee (56) $184, M & A Brown Glenrowan (16) $183, Mrs L Dingwall Rochester (38) $180, D & K Barker Nullawil (69) $179, Kevin Cain Moama (33) $176, E & B Cox Bears Lagoon (30) $175, M & P Connors Moama (50) $173, Robert Niven Elmore (13) $163.

CROSSBRED EWES

Hilton Park Lagoon Bears Lagoon (30) $100, GF & CM Rathjen Colbinabbin (27) $92, Sam Tanner Baddaginnie (32) $87, Chartwell Farms Romsey (30) $86, Bright Futures Livestock Lake Charm (4) $86, JJ Boyd Family Trust Boort (4) $86.

MERINO EWES

A & B Bear Leaghur (48) $100, JW & RL Knight Axedale (74) $95.

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

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

Canola - NON GM CANOLA - ISCC +/- AOF

$575.25 FIS. NON GM CANOLA +/- AOF

$560.50 FIS. *GM CANOLA - ISCC +/- AOF

$557 FIS. *GM CANOLA +/- AOF **CANGS

$530.75 FIS.

Faba1 $369 FIS. Faba2 $369 FIS.

New season APW MG $354.. ASW $303. Bar1 MG $268.

make sure

still right for you and your current needs.

call

Pilot project to take off

AGRICULTURAL career pathways linking students with industry opportunities are being forged in a new regional partnership with a pilot project to be rolled out within 12 months.

North Central LLEN project officer Sue Gould is driving the local collaboration to enhance the quality and currency of agricultural programs and industry partnerships and 21st century careers.

Sue has just returned from the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia National Conference in Canberra with the theme Growing the NEXTGEN of Food and Fibre Education.

The conference was attended by more than 200 delegates –primary and secondary teachers, tertiary educators, primary industry and government representatives.

Sue said all were a mission to breakdown industry misconceptions, emphasise vast opportunities in primary industries and the importance of engaging the next generation.

Sue said was staggered to hear that there are six jobs available for every agriculture graduate with up to 30 per cent of those

on-farm, up to 50 per cent in rural-regional off-farm locations and 30 per cent based in the city.

“It was also disappointing to hear that Victoria’s agriculture education is underperforming both at school and university level compared to the other states,” she said.

Pathways to a Career in Agriculture in the 21st Century will review and scope opportunities for growth in student engagement in agriculture and use this information to develop a framework for an innovative careers education program that explores the many facets of the 21st century agricultural workforce.

It will link student experiences with industry opportunities with the aim of increasing the number of young people engaging in agriculture related pathways while at school.

The project is being undertaken in partnership with eight North Central Cluster schoolsBoort District School, Charlton College, Donald High School, East Loddon P12 College, Pyramid Hill College, St Arnaud Secondary College, Wedderburn College, Wycheproof P-12 College - and the North Central

Trade Training Centre working with local government, industry bodies, agriculture and agribusiness.

Sue said she was looking forward to testing, reviewing and evaluating the information and experiences that form parted of the project.

The project will develop of a framework for a pilot of 21st Century Pathways to Careers in

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

Good lambs were firm with very few in the yarding. Secondary lambs $15 cheaper. Mutton $10-20 cheaper with two major processors absent.

Agriculture within 12 months.

“The outcome of the 18-month project will be a transferrable framework for future use in schools promoting educational pathways to a career in Agriculture in the 21st Century which develops locally relevant industry immersion experiences, workplace tours and work experience/immersion opportunities to increase student exposure to

the variety of work in agriculture and related areas.

“It will also enable better connections to local industry and understanding of local jobs and new industry technologies and establish a shared practice network of careers teachers across North Central Cluster schools and neighbouring areas, to increase the quality of agricultural careers advice.”

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

Sue Gould ... developing an agriculture career pathway pilot program in local schools.

Reluctance, reticence or simply not knowing the answers?

By CHRIS EARL

FOR three months - we won’t argue over a few days - communities across the Loddon have been probing for answers on the 500 kiloVolt VNI transmission lines that could be strung across the region in quicker time than Government funds flow to repair damage from last October’s floods.

Some questions have been answeredsort of - and were part of a mea culpa-style presentation by Australian Energy Market Operator representatives at the Loddon Herald forum earlier this month.

We have heard why “consultation” was conducted in a certain way, been given an indication of what might happen next in a form of local engagement and when some more information could be fed out to landowners, farmers, Loddon Shire and communities.

A reboot to bring communities on a journey? Perhaps, but AEMO and the State Government are starting light years behind after putting local people offside since February’s shock change of preferred route, just as they are still to smooth connection with towns and people around the route of Western Renewables Link the other side of the Great Divide.

All the fact sheets under the sun that could be generating local energy have done nothing to massage concerns and fears. They are, after all, theoretical documents

LEttERS tO tHE EDItOR

Priorities on issues a concern to resident

Sir, There have been several letters in the press recently calling out the conflict of interest that so many of us can clearly see but to which three councillors seem oblivious.

The notice of motion that Mayor, Cr Dan Straub put forward at April’s council meeting that ‘Loddon Shire make a submission supporting duck shooting to the Select Committee Inquiry into Victoria’s Recreational Native Bird Hunting Arrangements’ has alarmed many residents.

As Cr. Straub was a former political candidate for the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party and also a founding member, former President and current member of the Victorian Duck Hunters’ Association

YOUR ONLINE WORDS

AN OPINION PIECE BY REGIONAL VICTORIAN OPPOSED TO DUCK SHOOTING STIRS READERS

Michelle Mead wote: Ecotourism is definitely the way of the future with huge economic advantages to small communities still struggling post the pandemic. In particular the Lodden region has very unique wildlife. Surely observing our wildlife rather than killing it is a much better option?

Drew Chislett wrote: Michelle Mead, in our area we have dams with hundreds of ducks sitting on them currently. Some of these ducks have done the full circuit to Asia and back and carry a range of diseases and create serious contamination issues to livestock water. At night they mow down large areas of crop poking it’s head out of the ground We don’t want them wiped out but they do need controlling.

Mick Coleman wrote: Is the problem that people are feeding themselves and their

LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

that, farmers say, don’t stack up with practical agricultural practices today let alone allow for future trends in machinery size and use.

AEMO has now confirmed that VNI West will have capacity to feed in locallyproduced wind or solar energy. But how much? What is the interconnector’s “spare’ capacity.

And one big question that went unanswered at the Wedderburn forum: Will we all be back here in five years discussing plans to extend easement widths to accommodate a duplication of the interconnector and increase capacity?

We don’t know, still, whether VNI and its relative place within a national gridand potential spiderweb of transmission lines in eastern states - is a project of yesterday, today or tomorrow?

Maybe that question is beyond the remit of AEMO to answer. Certainly, Energy Minister Lily d’Ambrosio could enlighten everyone but despite issuing orders that will see this project started within months, cannot find time in her busy schedule to come, meet face-to-face and talk and listen with communities through which one part of the spiderweb may very well be woven.

Just as it has been claimed the approach and attitude of AEMO has been disrespect-

this decision does not pass the ‘pub test.’ A councillor’s private interest must not overlap with their official duty. We expect better. We expect our elected officials to act fairly and without bias when making decisions which affect the rights and interests of others.

I have no issue if Crs. Straub, Beattie and Holt wished to prepare their own individual submissions supporting duck hunting in Loddon Shire if they did so at their own cost using their own resources. I do not accept that it is fair and reasonable that three ‘leaders’ with their own personal agendas can use their voices to speak for over 7700 of us, many of whom wish duck hunting would end. How can such a decision be democratic?

The same three councillors who supported the above mentioned motion rejected Cr. Jungwith’s motion for a climate risk

ful, particularly by the Victorian Farmers’ Federation, to local people, so must the minister’s reluctance, even reticence, to venture north to community’s her orders will impact be questioned.

Angst and frustration have already been directed towards AEMO. The feeling of people close to the campaign for greater, and better, consultation and engagement is even more annoyance with the minister.

There are alternatives being put forward VNI West - Professor Bruce Mountain has already questioned the AEMO plan, that was naturally dismissed by the operator that has a majority public ownership of Federal and State Governments.

Professor Mountain is promising a detailed alternative plan after AEMO confirms its VNI West route.

The State Government should seriously consider any alternative that is more efficient and also cost effective as it surges ahead with a transition to renewable energy, a transition with a timetable closer to that of an impetuous revolutionary.

An already costly plan cannot blow out amid a landscape of haste. Answer the questions and if that can’t be done, admit with a little bit more mea culpa.

* ChrisEarlistheLoddonHeraldeditor

1. Who discovered penicillin?

2. Which infamous wall came down in 1989?

3. A Vodka Martini is the preferred drink of which fictional spy?

4. Mount Franklin (in Victoria), is what type of land formation?

5. The Merino breed of sheep originated in which country?

6. True or False – The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world.

7. Gymnorhina Tibicen is the scientific name for which bird?

8. Neil Armstrong is famous for being the first what?

9. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle created which famous detective?

10. And in how many separate pieces of writing by Doyle did that detective feature?

11. Former AFL player Dane Swan played for which club?

12. Who was the lead singer of the Australian band, The Seekers?

13. A formicary is built and inhabited by which creature?

14. A heptadecagon is a shape with how many sides?

15. Lemurs are native to which island?

report. The reason cited by Cr Holt was that council did not have the resources or available staff to undertake this work.

Interesting though, don’t you think, that resources could be found quickly enough (within eight business days) to prepare and lodge the council submission by the closing date of May 8? Really?

I query your priorities council. If only council was so timely in responding to correspondence from residents. When will you respond to accusations of conflict of interest and misuse of council resources?

And spare me your spin around ecotourism Loddon Shire.

Actions speak far louder than words. The actions of three councillors have demonstrated a complete lack of transparency and credibility.

C.Norman Inglewood

diculous things I ever heard in my life was (Cr Dan) Straub saying, killing native birds is “nature tourism”. Really! An absolute juvenile comment from a man baby who wants to play with guns. Please vote so carefully at the next council election folks, Loddon is looking more and more like a great place for even more rednecks to relocate to. Think progressive, not tradition.

Dale Stephenson wrote: With bag limits on the number of birds you can take it’s a healthy financial benefit for the local community, and it keeps the numbers of birds at a safe and healthy level.

16. What is the only letter in Scrabble to have a value of 5 points?

17. The Ghan train journey between Adelaide and Darwin takes how long one way?

18. Which English King had eight wives?

19. In which state or territory would you find Loch Sport?

20. How many bones are in a

ANSWERS

that you have the right to tell others they can’t. Anti duck hunting protesters are saying anything they can to try and demonise anything to do with shooting. Where’s the opposite side of the story about how awful the protesters are? Their dirty tricks. Their false accusations and lies. Best the Loddon Herald do an article on them too.

families self sufficiently. The flora and fauna wiped off the map to produce feed for vegans is ridiculous. Why aren’t those critters protected more than ducks?

Glynn Jarrett wrote: One of the most ri-

Amber Gibson wrote: Next you’ll be banning of driving cars! Are you aware of how many insect with feelings you kill every time you drive your car?

Mick Korong wrote: What an antagonistic and biased article. Full of skewed statistics and attacks on people. Just because you don’t like duck shooting, does not mean

David Horan wrote: Glynn Jarrett, I think if you’re aligning duck hunting with the USA gun culture you’re delirious. The gun laws in Aust are very stringent ... can you walk into a gun shop with no licence & walk out with a gun? C’mon, there’s probably been more people killed in the US than illegal birds killed this year alone.

Bruce McCahon wrote: (Loddon Shire decision) just another example of representatives of the majority presenting common sense and balance.

Spain

Man to walk on the moon

(56 short stories,

hours and

Characters travel the world

Ken Arnold takes nostalgic look at Chunder, Dog and Bear

TODAY we are going to have a Captain Cook at Chunder Loo.

At first glance you would probably think it was the invention of a septic tank but, no this at all, but the smiling bald headed man with the turban is actually an endearing Indian from Bengal, who was always accompanied by a fat koala, named Bear, dressed in an army uniform and a mongrel fox terrier called Dog, who was dressed in a sailors uniform.

Chunder Loo of Akim Foo fame is as Australian as Bazza. Chunder Loo came to life in a series of advertisements for Blyth and Platt, an English boot and shoe polish company, in 1909.

He was originally drawn by well-known Australian artist Norman Lindsay but when he became so popular his brother Lionel Lindsay wrote and illustrated The Adventures of Chunder Loo in 1916.

As Chunder Loo was roaming the world during World War One, he often just being referred to as Chunder, his name quickly became corrupted as rhyming slang for spew, simply loosely meaning to be sick, hence the introduction of chunder and spew into our English language.

You would have to wonder if Chunder Loo ever made it to the imaginary Persian city of Chunder-abad-dad. One of the epic journeys of Chunder Loo, armed with a sword, accompanied by Bear and Dog who had bayonets was entitled “On the Track of the Huns”.

The setting shows the three intrepid “soldiers” crouched over several ‘Munchen Bier’ (Munich Beer) bottles, Dog holding a bot-

ARAPROSDOKIANS...

tle to his nose. There is a trail of empty and broken bottles back to the limits of the town which suggests that the Germans may have drunk too much alcohol, which probably led to their downfall.

This drawing was part of a series, that were used to advertise Cobra boot polish from 1909 until around 1920. Chunder Loo also appeared in a cartoon strip in The Bulletin from 1915 to 1919, he being extremely popular with children who wanted to keep up to date with his exploits.

Today he is simply just Australia folk art, he being as Australian as Snuggle Pot and Cuddlepie Ginger Meggs and Felix the Cat, the latter two being the registered trademarks for Albert Whippie, who traded as Whipworth Boot & Shoe Company Sydney a century ago.

If you would like to have a butchers hook at Chunder Bunny, the long lost cousin of Chunder Loo, then venture down town into any major city, or any night club area, in the wee small hours of Saturday or Sunday morning and you will probably spot someone laughing at the ground whilst having a technicolour yawn, the fore runner to a masterpiece known as a rainbow parfait, however, spare a thought for poor Chunder Loo, he is no longer as worthless this once one shilling (10 cents) book now commands more than $3000 for an original copy.

Ginger Meggs, the little Aussie battler, was created by Jimmy Banks in the early 1920s. This mischief maker lived in an inner suburban working class household.

(Winston Churchill loved them)

Figures of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected; frequently humorous.

„ Where there’s a will, I want to be in it.

„ The last thing I want to do is hurt you, but it’s still on my list.

„ Since light travels faster than sound, some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

„ If I agreed with you, we’d both be wrong.

„ We never really grow up, we only learn how to act in public.

„ War does not determine who is rightonly who is left.

„ Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.

It has always been thought that Pat Sullivan created Felix the Cat in the 1920s but today America claim that Otto Messmer was his creator.

Blyth and Platt Ltd, boot and shoe polish manufacturers, was established by G W Rowe, at Altringham, Cheshire, England in 1894. This business moved to their new factory – the “Solar Works” on Greatham Road, New Bushey, Watford in 1905.

„ They begin the evening news with Good Evening, then proceed to tell you why it isn’t.

„ To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.

„ 1Buses stop in bus stations. Trains stop in train stations. On my desk is a work station.

„ I thought I wanted a career. Turns out I just wanted pay cheques.

„ In filling out an application, where it says, “In case of emergency, notify” I put doctor.

„ I didn’t say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.

„ Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy.

„ A clear conscience is the sign of a fuzzy memory

„ You do not need a parachute to

There was soon a large overseas network of agents selling Cobra brand polishes but in the countries where snakes or cobras is anathema to the residents the polish was marketed as Crown brand.

During 1914 this firm sent a large overseas consignment or 700,000 tins, which weighed about 40 tons. After the death of Rowe, FJ Brown had a branch factory established in Sydney, trad-

skydive. You only need a parachute to skydive twice.

„ Money can’t buy happiness, but it sure makes misery easier to live with.

„ I used to be indecisive. Now I’m not so sure.

„ You’re never too old to learn something stupid.

„ To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target.

„ Nostalgia isn’t what it used to be.

„ Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.

„ Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.

„ Where there’s a will, there are relatives.

„ I’m supposed to respect my elders, but it’s getting harder and harder for me to find one now.

NEXT WEEK

ing as Blyth & Platt (Australia).

The business of Blyth & Platt Ltd was purchased from the parent company of Levers Brothers by Chiswick Products Ltd on October 1, 1928, the latter becoming Reckitt & Coleman however the Cobra range was maintained until the demise of this business in 1953.

The Blyth & Platt Limited, Solar Works, Watford was liquidated 1961.

The girl with a ‘Spanish nanna’ serving up her tasty creations

Sir Winston Churchill

JONES (Nee Appleby)

Brenda Mary

Died peacefully on May 12th 2023. Aged 85 years.

Loved Wife of Albert.

Loving Mum of Jenny (Cossar), Pam (Treble), Karen, Sue and their families. Much loved Sister of Brian and Graeme (Both Dec.)

“Love Does Not End”

The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Brenda Mary Jones will be held by the graveside at the Inglewood Cemetery on Friday (May 19) at 11.00am.

A livestream of the service will be available at www.napierpark.com.au

PUBLIC NOTICES

SWAP MEET

Saturday 20th May

Engine Park, cnr Racecourse Rd and Calder Highway, Wedderburn

Gates open to the public from 7am Entry (cash only) $2 adults

Children free

Help shape the future of agriculture

We’re looking for people from diverse backgrounds and with differing perspectives and knowledge about natural resource management to join our Regional Sustainable Agriculture Committee.

Turn

Supported by

BBQ, Pies and Pasties, Pancakes, Soup, Tea, Coffe and slices and more to feast on Enquires to: T Bailey 0427 583 341 L Goddard 0438 915 278

With a focus on agriculture in the region, the committee meets quarterly. Your valuable contribution will help guide projects and programs from a community perspective including development and implementation.

Expressions of interest are open to until 5pm Friday 19 May.

To express your interest via a quick survey, please go to:

https://bit.ly/regionalsusag

More information about the CMA’s Sustainable Agriculture program can also be found at www. nccma.vic.gov.au

LODDON DERBY IN PICTURES

ANDREW Perryman captures the action in a thrilling Loddon Derby encounter between Wedderburn and Boort in Saturday’s North Central Football League match of the day. Wedderburn ventured to Boort and returned home with the premiership points after nudging ahead to win by two points.

In the thick of play were Redbacks’ veteran Adam Postle (left), Luke Holt (below) taking on Tom Potter and Boort’s Matt Hodoras (right).

BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES

NORTH CENTRAL

- Not supplied.

BEST - Boort: S. Toose, J. Hird, A. Cockerell, N. Scott. Wedderburn: E. Clarke, D. Tansley, B. Hartnell.

CENTRAL VICTORIA

GOALS- Not supplied

BEST - Boort: O. Byrne, F. Arnold, B. McPherson, N. Howe, A. Lee. Wedderburn: B. Cramp, J. Baltasbrew, B. Mansell, A. Roberts, B. Cunningham.

Vanston’s edge claims stroke on countback

PERFECT conditions greeted the small group assembled for the stroke event at Inglewood on Sunday.

David Vanston 82-10-72 and Nathan Joyner 96-24-72 tied.

Both players had length and accuracy off the tee with David’s strong short game telling on the back nine to win the day on countback.

Rob Stranger had an unusually erratic day. A couple of memorable recovery shots to within a couple of feet from the pin had his playing partners in awe however.

The course won the nearest the pin on the 9th for the third week in a row which sees a tidy jackpot looming.

The club always welcomes interest from new players. La-

dies assemble each Wednesday from 9:30 and Sunday competition assembles 11:45

BOORT

Under unseasonably warm and sunny conditions for May, eight players took the fairways on Saturday and certainly found the ground firming up underfoot.

Managing to play to their handicaps with nett 71, Kevin Linehan and Stuart Tweddle tied for the lead at the end of the round, with Kevin winning out after a countback to claim the voucher plus the Privilege cup for May.

Rounding out the podium was Alister McDougal just two shots further back.

Nearest the pins were shared equally with the players from

Wednesday, with Di Johnston and Gaye Sim picking up one each, while Damien Lanyon and Doug Couper claimed the remaining two.

WEDDERBURN

Fourteen players took to the fairways at Wedderburn on Saturday for the captain versus president play.

Tony Holt’s president’s crew took honours with a net total of 538 from the captain’s 518, Owen Bailey was the day’s winner with 77-9-68. Runnerup was D McNeill 78-8-70 on a countback from Graham Nesbit 79-9-90.

Nearest the pin on the 9th was Cam Taylor.

Winner of last Friday’s chook run was Carolyn McHugh from 10 other competitors.

Marong: Z. Conroy 5, Z. Rowe

H. Bourke, K. Harris 3, Z. Justice, K. McCaig, D. Tannock, H. Roberts 2, L. Hale, L. Rielley, S. Taylor, K. Terrill. BEST - Bridgewater: C. Woodhatch, W. Thomson, L. Lonsdale, C. Orton, B. Hale, W. Salau. Marong: L. Hale, Z. Justice, K. Terrill, L. Rielley, H. Roberts, K. Thomson.

GOALS - East Loddon: M. Hocking 7,

Eliana Haw sends Boort into attack in Saturday’s clash with Wedderburn. AP PHOTO

Youngsters breakthrough for first win of season

YOUNG Redbacks have had their first win in North Central under 12 hockey.

Wedderburn finished one goal up over Boort on Saturday with Brax Nordennen named the best player.

Under 12: Boort lost to Wedderburn 0-1, Birchip Watchem d Donald 1-0, St Arnaud d Wycheproof Narraport 2-0.

Ladder: St Arnaud 9, Wycheproof Narraport 12, Charlton 9, Donald 6, Birchip Watchem 6, Sea Lake Nandaly 3, Wedderburn 3, Boort 0.

Under 15: Boort d Wedderburn 111, Birchip Watchem d Donald 4-2, St Arnaud d Wycheproof Narraport 2-0.

Ladder: Sea Lake Nandaly 9, Birchip Watchem 9, St Arnaud 6, Boort 9, Donald 6, Charlton 6, Wycheproof Narraport 3, Wedderburn 0.

Women: Boort d Wedderburn 130, Birchip Watchem d Donald 8-0, St Arnaud drew Wycheproof Narraport 1-1.

Ladder: Charlton 9, Wycheproof Narraport 13, Birchip Watchem 6, Boort 7, St Arnaud 4, Wedderburn 3, Sea Lake Nandaly 1, Donald 0.

Men: Birchip Watchem lost to Donald 0-5, St Arnaud lost to Wycheproof Narraport 2-5.

Ladder: Boort 12, Wycheproof Narraport 9, St Arnaud 6, Donald 3, Charlton 3, Sea Lake Nandaly 3, Birchip Watchem 0.

Tate Woodhatch turns over play for Bridgewater under 18s. LH PHOTO

Doug Couper tees off at Boort.

Kevin Linehan in winning form on Saturday

NORTH CENTRAL

NETBALL | SPORT

(31) d Donald 6, 14, 21, 28, (28).

Wings are clipped

REIGNING A Grade premiers

Maiden Gully has been defeated by the Selina Holland-coached Newbridge.

The Maroons were coming off a three-game losing streak while Maiden Gully had shown no easing of its champion form.

But Newbridge cast aside any doubts about being able to beat the 2022 premiers by playing at a high level in all thirds of the court. There were many outstanding contributors to a Maroons’ victory which was spearheaded by a 40-goal return by Kym Childs.

At the other end of the court, Maiden Gully had Tia Webb in hot form.

The Adam Boldiston-coached Eagles clawed their way to a two-goal lead by half-time, but the Maroons dominated most of the third to gain a six-goal buffer.

Heat was on in the last, but Newbridge teamed well to claim a hard-fought 51-48 victory. The

play of Jorja Hufer and Emily Langley in defence was a key factor in the Maroons’ upsetting the Eagles who slid to the third rung on the ladder.

And Pyramid Hill kept up its impressive start to 2023 by defeating Loddon Valley powerhouse Mitiamo by four goals.

The Superoos started best but Pyramid Hill edged ahead after quarter time in the tight match that now sees the undefeated Bulldogs at the top of the ladder, equal on points with Marong.

LODDON VALLEY

31, (31). Maiden Gully 11, 25, 34, 48, (48) lost to Newbridge 13, 23, 40, 51, (51). Mitiamo 9, 15, 27, 37, (37) lost to Pyramid Hill 14, 23, 34, 43, (43). Bridgewater

Carly Isaac wins the ball as Boort goes to the top of the North Central ladder. AP PHOTO

Bridgewater’s Amber Anderson and Calivil under 15 skipper Lexie Austen in action on Saturday. LH PHOTO Araminta Wood looks for options to send Bridgewater forward. LH PHOTO

SENIORS

GOALS - Boort: J. Fitzpatrick 3, J. Muscatello, N. McLaren 2, D. Hawker, S. Green, F. Holland. Wedderburn: T. Campbell, S. Barnes 2, J. Douglas, D. Benaim, J. Rosengren, I. Holt, D. Jackson.

BEST - Boort: K. Wilson, J. Fitzpatrick, S. Green, N. McLaren, R. McGhie, N. Twigg. Wedderburn: D. Jackson, J. Rosengren, L. Holt, C. Lowry, S. Lockhart, J. Lockhart.

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 3, D. Castellano, N. Rippon, N. Gordon, L. Ryan 1. Donald: S. Dunstan, R. Young 3, C. Anderson, J. Potter, B. Grant, S. Dinnell.

BEST - Birchip Watchem: L. Ryan, D. Hinkley, N. Rippon, N. Gordon, J. Booth, J. Randall. Donald: R. Young, J. Potter, R. Hards, S. Dunstan, J. Wallin, L. Geddes.

GOALS - St Arnaud: J. Tillig 3, J. Hicks 2, B. Organ, J. Male, A. Bourke. Wycheproof Narraport: G. Hommelhoff 6, K. Hommelhoff 4, C. Jones 3, C. Green, J. Bateson.

- St Arnaud: J. Male, B. Organ, J. Tillig, M. Birthisel, M. Egan, N. Birthisel. Wycheproof Narraport: K. Hommelhoff, G. Hommelhoff, A. Zuk, J. Kenny, J.

H. Senior.

GOALS - Nullawil: A. Thomson 6, A. Casey, D. Smith 3, D. Watts 2, L. Caccaviello, J. Casey, Z. Kelly, J. Humphreys, A. Hogan, D. Isbister, M. Thomson. Charlton: N. Thompson, H. Taylor

- Nullawil: P. Kelly, D. Smith, D. Putt, K. Doran, A. Thomson, D. Watts. Charlton: C. Fitzpatrick, S. Woods, R. Woods, H. Taylor, A. Judd, J. Taylor.

Redbacks make point or two in pressure-cooker finish

FITNESS and relentless pressure have given Wedderburn a thrilling two-point victory over Loddon rival Boort in North Central football.

Coaches Sam Barnes (Wedderburn) and Dale Cameron had predicted their sides would be in a pressure ding-dong and they were not wrong.

It was a game for defenders as both sides battled for local bragging rights. They virtually went goal for goal - and behind for behind - for four quarters. The turnover count was high in the first term, Boort quickly moving the ball out of defence and kicking four goals.

Without Jono Lanyon in the lineup, the Pies still had options across the midfield but it was again the backmen, as has been the case in opening rounds, who kept the Pies ahead.

Those defenders took their role right to the line, where last-minute touches robbed Wedderburn recording a major score.

Relentless pressure saw Wedderburn coach Sam Barnes and Tommy Campbell miss shots normally within their kicking compass.

But from mid-way through the third term, Wedderburn was back within a

sniff, kicking three goals for the term and down a single point at the break, Boort and Wedderburn went goal for goal and behind for behind for the last 30 minutes.

The goal face was being peppered and a Titanic arm wrestle played out. Fitzpatrick with three goals was best for Boort while big man Nathan Twigg was again a key contributor, easily the most consistent for the Pies in five rounds. Jackson, Rosengren and Louis Holt all stepped into the vital roles for the Redbacks as they snuck home by two points after four quarters of defensive football.

Bye gives early season chance for stocktake

A WEEK off on the field for North Central football brings a fortnight for clubs to recalibrate game plans and team structures.

The hockey championship weekend bye on Saturday - the only general bye in the league this season - will also see little change to the training schedule of clubs

SENIORS

with Wedderburn coach Sam Barnes saying the Redbacks will continue their match-day simulations on the track at Donaldson Park.

Things had been looking a bit rocky for Wedderurn but the tight win over Boort has shown the season is far from over. The Redbacks have already added Jake

IN FRONT OF GOAL

27 - (3) - Ben Edwards - Birchip Watchem

Fitzpatrick - Boort RESERVES

13 - (3) - Ben Brennan - Wycheproof N

13 - (2) - Callum Goode - Birchip Watchem

12 - (1) - Patrick O’Rourke - Boort 10 - (0) - Sam Goldsmith - Nullawil

9 - (2) - Gerald Riley - Wedderburn 9 - (2) - Jason Perry - Nullawil

deAraugo to their lineup and ruckman Jordan Hargreaves will be back from overseas in a few weeks.

Barnes says the Redbacks have a tough draw ahead against top teams. “That’s when we’ll see where we are really at ... whether we match or there’s a gap,” Barnes said.

NEXT ROUND

MAY 27: Donald v St Arnaud Wedderburn, v Birchip Watchem, Wycheproof Narraport v Nullawil, Charlton v Sea Lake Nandaly. Boort bye.

No matches are scheduled in North Central this weekend with a general bye for the hockey championships

RESERVES

GOALS - St Arnaud: C. Snell, A. Craddock. Wycheproof Narraport: H. Fawcett 4, B. Brennan 3, T. Rowe, T. Cotton, C. Gaylor, X. McKersie, M. Hall, R. Jones, D. Allen.

BEST - St Arnaud: S. Elliott, E. Swanton, M. Thomas, C. Snell, J. Kell, C. Campbell. Wycheproof Narraport: R. Jones, T. Rowe, H. Fawcett, T. Metcalf, E. Jones, D. Allen.

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GOALS - Birchip Watchem: C. Boyle, T. Wiantara, J. Goldsmith, R. Doran , C. Goode 2, L. Randall, J. Boyle. Donald: L. Semi.

BEST - Birchip Watchem: D. Batarilo, J. Goldsmith, M. Finster, M. Rickard, L. Randall. Donald: K. Green, B. Griffiths, D. Hawkes, J. Adams, L. Semi, N. Clark.

Nullawil 4.4 6.11 10.15 16.19 (115)

Charlton 0.3 0.3 1.3 1.3 (9)

GOALS - Nullawil: M. Poyner 6, G. Forrester 4, J. Taylor, J. Perry 2, L. Braine, A. Forrester. Charlton: T. Catherine.

BEST - Nullawil: J. Vearing, M. Poyner, M. Hogan, J. Morrison, G. Forrester, A. McGrath. Charlton: M. Thompson, A. Johnstone, T. Catherine, F. Bourke, B.

Dixon, J. Olive.

Boort 4.2 8.4 11.6 15.9 (99)

Wedderburn 1.0 2.1 3.3 3.4 (22)

GOALS - Boort: N. McNally, C. O’Rourke 4, J.Bell, N. Gooding 2, A. Jackson, P. O’Rourke, W. Toose. Wedderburn: G. Riley 2, S. Carroll.

BEST - Boort: J. Bell, N. McNally, W. Toose, C. O’Rourke, A. Jackson, J. Mulquiny. Wedderburn: C. Weston, D. Keuken, F. Turnbull, C. Hargreaves, J. Piccoli, J. Hayes.

Wingman Nate McLaren was again in the best for Boort and also kicked two goals. AP PHOTO

Bulldogs at fighting best

THE round five clash at Mitiamo was a good one for Pyramid Hill, with two wins from three games of football.

The Under 18s, where the reformed Dogs team took on the Rams was lop-sided on the scoreboard, but on-field it was a freeflowing affair, with plenty of skills and multiple goals scored.

The “Rams” won comfortably, but Lewis Stubbs kicked six goals for the ‘Dogs and received great support from running ball-winners Blake Gibson and Connor McCoy, in what was a very positive effort from the young Dogs.

The reserves game was much tighter, and although the respective ladder positions suggested the Bulldogs should win it was a different case on the field.

A dominant opening term by the Bulldogs saw them lead by three goals, but a persistent Superoos kept the visitors scoreless in the third term set up an arm wrestle in the fourth stanza.

The Dogs rallied to win by 10 points, with Rohan Pollock, five goals and Greg Quinn, two goals,

Fawcett notches up game 200

VETERAN Stevie Fawc-

ett played his 200th Loddon Valley league game in Calivil reserves win over Bridgewater last Saturday.

Fawcett notched up 114 games with Pyramid Hill, including junior and reserves premierships, before crossing to Calivil in 2010.

He was also in a Demons’ reserves premiership and played a few senior games before retiring in 2015.

Fawcett again pulled on the boots in later seasons to assist Calivil with numbers needed to field teams.

Calivil reserves won by 59 points in his milestone game.

SENIORS

leading the scoring. Four quarter efforts to stand out for Pyramid Hill included Rylan Delamere, Tom Walker and Jayson Carroll.

The Dogs now move to second on the ladder.

The senior clash was a one-sided affair, and although the hosts were still running and competitive at game’s-end, Pyramid Hill were too strong at both ends of the ground.

A consistent four-quarter performance which included six or more goals in all four terms saw the visitors win by 100-plus points for the first time this season.

The huge percentage boost lifts them back to second on the ladder.

With 12 goalkickers, eight them scoring multiple times, the Bulldogs had too many options.

Better players included Dylan Collis, Zac Alford, Gav James, Steven Gunther and Zac Dingwall along with 2022 league best and fairest Billy Micevski.

Spirited Maroons fall short against swooping Eagles

MAIDEN Gully held off a spirited Newbridge for a one-goal victory in Saturday’s sixth round of Loddon Valley footall.

The Sam-Gale coached Maroons had made the early running against Maiden Gully to have 14-point lead at the first break.

But the Eagles came back in the second and by the final change had scores locked at 7.8.

A tight final quarter had combatants in a real wrestle with the Eagles prevailing by a goal. The win lifted sixth on the ladder.

In the clash of one and two, Marong stated its intentions from the first quarter with an eight-goal onslaught against Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

Once again the Panthers showed no mercy and left the league’s most improved side this season having to fight for scoreboard respectability.

But the going was tough as Marong piled on another seven goals in the second term

before being outscored by Serpentine in the third.

The Panthers put greater focus in their game in the final term to record victory by 73 points.

Brandyn Grenfell and Robins each kicked four goals while again, the Panthers had almost half the team scoring majors. Their multiple avenues to goal are making it difficult for opposing sides to achieve turnovers.

An inaccurate start did not diminish the scoreboard dominance of Bridgewater in the Mean Machine’s clash with Calivil.

Skipper Josh Martyn bagged another six goals in the 43-point win to retain his lead on the goalkicking table. Demons’ coach Ant Dennis and Jake Lawry each slotted two as Calivil won better across the centre.

The ladder after six rounds has little separating Newbridge, Mitiamo and Calivil after a torrid start to the season.

Early defining round arrives for top five aspirants

INGLEWOOD and Bears Lagoon Serpentine can widen the gap as they look to further cement their spots in the top five on Saturday.

Both are already a game clear of Maiden Gully and with the Eagles facing Pyramid Hill, can extend that by another four points on the ladder.

Inglewood is coming back from the bye after comprehensively accounting for Maiden Gully a fortnight ago.

Despite being wayward in front of

goal, the Blues are stringing wins together thanks to the arrival of options in the form of the Polak brothers and a few other handy recruits.

Not to be over-shadowed, Inglewood’s youngsters Nevins and Wendels are also making their presence felt.

The confidence is growing and will be too much for Newbridge on Saturday.

Serpentine copped a bit of a bruising from Marong last Saturday - join the club, they might say - and faces Bridge-

water. This will be another tough assignment for both clubs.

The Mean Machine has Josh Martyn in form up forward and how well he is nullified by Laird’s troops will be pivotal in what could be the tight result of the round.

Mitiamo has the chance for a second win but should not take Calivil too lightly. The Demons are edging close to a win.

Pyramid Hill will be too strong for Maiden Gully.

GOALS - Maiden Gully: B. Dimech, T. Miles 2, C. Walsh, R. Bacon, D. Wust, N. Murley, H. McCartney. Newbridge: S. Gale, C. Dixon 3, B. Harris, M. Giri. BEST Maiden Gully: C. Hale, J. McDonald, M. Crooks, B. Dimech, R. Bacon, G. Brown. Newbridge: D. Stevens, K. Gard, C. Dixon, J. Clark, A. Moore, A. Fortune.

GOALS - Bridgewater: J. Martyn 6, H. Donegan 2, B. Irvine, T. Estrada, D. Wood, J. Symons. Calivil: A. Dennis, J. Lawry 2, C. Thompson,. BEST - Bridgewater: H. Donegan, D. Wood, J. Martyn, T. Estrada, B. Irvine, J. Symons. Calivil: J. Hynes, C. Thompson, H. Miller, R. Lourie, B. Baker, W. Miller. Marong 8.2 12.7 15.13 20.14 (134) BL Serpentine 1.1

8.5 9.7 (61)

GOALS - Marong: B. Grenfell, K. Robins 4, N. Devanny, J. McCaig 3, R. Taylor, R. Tibbett, C. Gregg, M. Bradbury, K. Manley, J. Ede. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: H. Gadsden 3, J. Bailey, O. Downing 2, L. Mott, C. Gadsden.

BEST - Marong: K. Robins, R. Tibbett, N. Devanny, L. Lee, B. Grenfell, T. Fisher. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: H. Gadsden, K. Zass, A. Brohm, J. Taig, C. Gadsden, N. Kemp. Mitiamo 1.1 2.2 3.2 3.2 (20)

Hill 7.4 15.13 21.16 27.20 (182)

GOALS - Mitiamo: B. Baines, R. Turner, D. Walters. Pyramid Hill: S. Gunther, T. Brennan 4, D. Collis, B. George, Z. Alford 3, B. Carroll, M. Dingwall, W. Perryman 2, D. Goulding, M. Gunther, J. Sheahan, B. Morison. BEST - Mitiamo: R. Turner, L. Lougoon, D. Clohesy, K. Galvin, W. Draper, L. Hocking. Pyramid Hill: D. Collis, S. Gunther, Z. Alford, J. Sheahan, B. Carroll, B. Micevski.

RESERVES

- Bridgewater: J. Roberts 2, H. Pidoto, D. Maher. Calivil: D. Masson 3, B. Pickles, J. Demeo, J. Bonanno, N. Vine, D. Howard, D. Ryan, N. Cartwright, T. Wakefield, C. Henson. BEST - Bridgewater: L. Harrison, D. Maher, J. Higgins, L. Maher, O. Horan. Calivil : N. Vine, J. Demeo, D. Masson, J. Bonanno, P. Hansford, J. Manderson.

GOALS - Marong: B. Matthews 7, C. Stacey 4, K. Newton, J. Cummins, R. Gretgrix, T. Grant, T. Thach 2, R. Hender, J. Evenden, C. Williamson. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: C. Anstee.

BEST - Marong: P. Gretgrix, C. Williamson, C. Thiesz, J. Cummins, B. Matthews, R. Gretgrix. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: M. Addlem, Z. Hollis, C. O’Shannessy, C. Davies, J. Gladman, A. Addlem.

Maiden Gully 1.2 4.3 7.6 7.6 (48) Newbridge 4.0 6.0 10.2 15.4 (94)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: C. Flood, J. Doolan 2, D. Lawry, D. Baldwin. Newbridge: B. Pearce 4, M. Kirley, A. Fithall 3, M. Van Poppel, N. Gray, R. Hipworth, J. Dawkins, S. Brynhildsen.

BEST Maiden Gully: W. Anderson, D. Baldwin, T. Hudson, C. Flood, W. Donaczy, R. Sarkady. Newbridge: B. Pearce, D. Whan, B. Butler, K. Bertuch, B. Etherington, M. Adams.

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GOALS - Mitiamo: T. Fitzallen 2, C. Hoyling, C. Milne, J. Rawlings, K. Pentreath. Pyramid Hill: R. Pollock 5, C. Cooper, G. Quinn 2.

BEST - Mitiamo: C. Collins, A. Mckean, J. Rawlings, A. White, E. Hocking, C. Pearson. Pyramid Hill: T. Walker, R. Delamare, J. Carroll, N. Moon, M. Swiney, G. Quinn.

- GEOFF HICKMOTT League best and fairest Billy Micevski among the best for Dogs

sport

SWOOPING PIES

Champions cop first defeat in four years

BOORT is sitting clear on North Central netball senior ladders after wins against powerhouse Loddon rival Wedderburn.

The reigning A Grade premiers and champions were defeated by Boort on Saturday by 10 goals.

It was the first defeat for the Redbacks in four years and the only time Boort can remember winning A, B and C Grade encounters against the association’s dominant club.

A tight defensive game saw the battle for A Grade top spot go goal for goal in the first half.

The rebuilding Redbacks were unable to counter the height of Boort. The Pies broke clear in the second half with 10 goals in the third term and shooting an emphatic 13 in the last quarterthe home team talls emerging a key difference between two top sides.

Coach Georgia Sheahan said last season had given hints of the potential for Boort.

“This season, everyone is on

the same page, club morale is high and that’s where success starts,” Sheahan said. “Everyone is eager to do better.”

Sheahan said players had been prepared for a tough game against the Redbacks.

She said Rene Caris and skipper Roxy Train had shone through as Saturday’s game progressed, shutting down Wedderburn’s attack.

“And we had great work again from Steph Wilson, Jo and Carly Isaac and Sophie Perryman - all good inclusions in the team,” Sheahan said.

Holly Lockhart was again a thorn for opponents as she worked with Grace Lockhart to keep Wedderburn in touch.

Saturday’s three senior grade victories has Boort a game clear on the ladders and a fortnight off with this Saturday’s hockey championship break followed by its first bye of the season.

“It will be business as usual over the next couple of weeks. Training will be no different,” said Sheahan

Maroons looking to home

SPORT will return to Newbridge Recreation Reserve next month, more than eight months after being submerged by near-record floods.

The Maroons will play their first games of netball and football at home against Bears Lagoon Serpentine on June 24.

Loddon Valley league and

shire council have been in talks since early this year on re-opening the reserve for sport as the football club and reserve committee repair damage to courts and infrastructure.

The June 24 games will be designated a flood recovery round.

Jo Isaac sends the Pies swopping on top spot on Saturday. Isaac has been a key A Grade player for Boort this season

AP PHOTO