Have yourself a merry little Christmas . . . and be safe
CELEBRATIONS have hit fever pitch around the Loddon with Christmas just six days away.
Street parties and end-of-year functions have been held in many communities.
There are more to come with Serpentine’s community Christmas tree tomorrow evening and Inglewood coming together on Saturday night when Santa will also make his visit to Mysia’s Christmas Wonderland.
Police have urged care on roads and will patrols to keep people safe in their holiday travels.
Emergency service volunteers are hoping for a quiet Christmas in contrast to 12 months ago when storms and floods hit the region.
Loddon caravan parks and camp grounds will be at capacity over the Christmas-New Year break.
INSIDE: Christmas in our local communities
SEARING heat pushed Monday’s mercury to within a whisker of breaking the Loddon’s record December temperature.
The region endured more than five hours of temperatures hovering in the low 40s. At Inglewood the day’s top came close to the record of 43.1 set on New Year’s Eve 2005.
Temperatures were higher in the north-
ern Loddon area with Pyramid Hill College postponing its awards evening to last night.
Some usinesses including Bridgewater Nursery closed early to avoid the heat and sheep and lamb sales at Bendigo Livestock Exchange started earlier with numbers capped at 19,000.
Farmers spent last weekend pushing through with harvest. They stayed off headers on Monday that was declared a
day of total fire ban. Emergency services received multiple calls late in the day as winds brought down trees. Police are also investigating a spate of early morning fires near Logan.
Community houses had the message out that their air-conditioned facilities were available for people seeking refuge from the heat.
Temperatures in the high 20s are forecast for Christmas Day.
Cool job ... Jalen Hoskin stacks ice in the Inglewood IGA freezer room on Monday. LH PHOTO
Loddon singing sensation Elias Lanyon has been bringing joy to communities this Christmas. One of his local festive gigs was in Pyramid Hill on Saturday night. LH PHOTO
Loddon HERALD
in the communities and districts of Boort, Bridgewater, Dingee, Inglewood, Korong Vale, Mitiamo, Newbridge, Laanecoorie, Pyramid Hill, Serpentine, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn. Also available in Dunolly, Charlton, Wycheproof, Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat, Golden Square and Eaglehawk.
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WEEKEND FORECAST
Bumper festive feast
WEKCINE to your 40-page Christmas edition of the Loddon Herald crammed with latest local news from our local communities.
There is a special eight-page Class of 2024 feature highlighting the achievements of students in Loddon schools and a look back at the big stories of the year.
We also have quiz and puzzle pages to help you relax during the festive season.
And, of course, there is your 2025 Loddon Herald calendar and rainfall chart that features our photograph of Di Robertson that received industry award recognition this year.
HOLIDAY PUBLISHING ARRANGEMENTS
YOUR local Loddon Herald will not be published Christmas week (December 26) and New Year week (January 2).
The first edition for 2025 will be published on January 9. During the break in print publication, visit our website www.loddonherald.com.au for have latest local news updates from across the region.
IN BRIEF
Stocking Stumpers
Bridge
capacity
Season’s Greetings from your local newspaper
THE year is fast drawing to a close ... a year in our local communities of many achievements and moments of joy.
Among the more than 2000 articles in your local newspaper this year have been stories to inspire, sometimes they have provoked discussion on important issues and and at other times they have reported on heartbreak and challenges. Importantly, they have been your stories.
As we now look to enjoy the festive season and time with family or friends, there is every reason during those precious
moments found for reflection and relaxation to draw on the past in looking to the New Year.
How can we strengthen the fabric of our communities and local organisations? How better to support small businesses that are the heartbeat of our communities, employing local people and in turn backing local organisations and events?
When receiving gifts over the next week, remember that we can unselfishly gift to help others in our local communities.
The Christmas-New Year period will be one to celebrate. But, please, be safe and care-
ful when travelling roads and highways whether near home or further afield.
Take care of yourself and others on those hot days that invariably characterise the Australian summer. Our volunteer firefighters, community ambulance officers and local SES members deserve their ”down time” too.
On behalf of the Loddon Herald, best wishes for a Merry Christmas and we look forward to sharing your stories again in 2025.
Chris Earl Managing Editor
LATEST checks on the Calder River bridge over the Loddon River at Bridgewater will help plan future upgrades, according to the Department of Transport and Planning. “The additional investigation works on the Calder Highway bridge were undertaken to review the capacity of the existing bridge structure, which will help us to plan for any future upgrades. Structures on our road network undergo inspections on a regular basis. Works earlier in the year informed pavement design and depth ... most recent investigations were for structural purposes,” the department said. No upgrade timetable has been confirmed.
Burglary charges
A ST Arnaud man, 33, has been arrested after burglaries in central Victoria, including at Loddon sporting clubs. Central Goldfields Crime Investigation Unit conducted a search warrant at the man’s address last week and was charged and bailed to appear in court. Treat for seniors
MEMBERS of Pyramid Hill and Boort Senior Citizens’ Clubs have joined other clubs from across northern Victoria for a festive luncheon in Barham. Pyramid Hill club is expected to begin using its new facilities next year.
House fire ‘suspicious’
POLICE dogs and a chopper scoured the Pyramid Hill district overnight Saturday after fire destroyed a weatherboard home.
Local residents joined the search for the man, believed to have livedin the home, in the hours after fire brigade crews were called to the Railway Avenue blaze.
Several hundred people who had been at the town’s Christmas street party watched on as volunteers from Pyramid Hill and Cohuna brigades tackled the inferno.
Police from Loddon stations at Pyramid Hill, Wedderburn, Inglewood and Serpentine were joined by Kerang-based officers in the search for the man.
Trains on the Bendigo-Swan Hill line were also stopped as police scoured the district.
Police said the man was found Sunday morning at Sylvaterre, about 16km from town.
Reports said the man had suffered burns to his face, hands and back.
The man, believed to have been a resident of Pyramid Hill for the last three years, was taken to Bendigo Health for treatment.
The fire was being treated as suspicious, police said.
Pyramid Hill Fire Brigade captain Steve Mann said crews responded quickly to the fire call soon after 8pm.
“We had a many of our members at the Christmas party on the other side of the railway line,” Mr Mann said.
Youth grants
NORTH Central LLEN and Northern District Community Health have received State Government grants for youth events in the Loddon Shire over the next three years. The Engage! program aims to empower young people to co-design and deliver activities that build skills, confidence, and encourage creativity while FReeZA supports access to opportunities and career pathways for emerging musicians, artists and aspiring events management professionals, amplifying the future of Victoria’s music and creative industries. Grant amounts have not been released by the Government.
Truck rescue
POLICE and emergency services have attended multiple road rescues in the Serpentine district in the last fortnight. One was a truck tipping on the BridgewaterSerpentine Road. Witnesses said the truck had hit a pothole before the accident, claiming the road condition continues to deteriorate.
Wine strategy
Powercor crews and an ambulance also attended the fire scene.
Mr Mann said firefighters had the fire extinguished within three hours.
“The weatherboard home was fully engulfed when we arrived but crews were able to stop flames from spreading to adjoining properties.”
Police investigations are continuing.
Meanwhile, three early morning fires near Logan on Monday’s total fire ban day are also being probed. The first call was made about 5.30am for a fire on the Logan-Bealiba Road, off the Wimmera Highway near Logan.
Trevor steps in to slash high grass
GRASS up to two metres high on a neglected Inglewood block has been slashed by good Samaritan neighbour Trevor Ralph.
Frustrated by the fire and snake danger of long grass in front of the historic former police cells in Grant Street North, Trevor last Thursday took action.
“I reckon it’s at least five years since the grass was cut on the block. The grass has become quite high and dried out fast in recent weeks,” he said. “And there’s the risk of snakes as well.”
Mr Ralph said he was unsure who was responsible for maintaining the block between the post office and police station.
“But no matter who it is, we can’t have a fire risk going unchecked at this time of year,” Mr Ralph said.
The old police lock-up was built in 1869 and last used in 1964. The building formed part of the police camp but its state of disrepair is worsening, according to Mr Ralph.
Brigade volunteers received a second call soon after to a fire that burnt 0.10 hectares further along the road. A third fire on Logan-Bealiba Road, Cochranes Creek reported three hours later.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
CONSULTATION has started to develop a new Victorian Wine Strategy support the sustainability and set the direction of the industry. Consultation closes next at the end of January with the final strategy to be released within six months.
Crews quick on the scene of Pyramid Hill house fire on Saturday night as residents wrapped up their street party.
Reducing risk ... Trevor Ralph takes action. LH PHOTO
Praise for service comes with state award
TOP honours in a state-wide community award have been won by Boort District Health.
The Loddon team was recognised with the Community Achievement Awards regional service honour in Melbourne last Friday.
CEO Donna Doyle said the award was outstanding recognition for the BDH team.
The award citation said: “Boort District Health is committed to addressing key social and healthcare challenges. Boort District Health successfully implemented
initiatives like the Community Kitchen Garden and Healing Garden, promoting wellness and cultural unity.
“They are accredited under NSQHS and Aged Care Standards, and they spearheaded the Community Home Support Program, providing critical care to vulnerable individuals.
“They played a vital role in raising awareness of family violence through the 16 Days of Activism and partnered with local organisations for inclusivity events,” the citation said
Strategic plan ‘gives clear health service pathway’
BOORT District Health’s latest four-year strategic plan would give the service a clear pathway under the State Government’s new health services plan, according to CEO Donna Doyle.
She told Monday’s strategic plan launch at the annual general meeting that the service strategy would assist with people “back in Boort being well cared for and well supported”.
Consultation for the four-year strategy started in 2022 and the CEO said: “We feel the strategy plan is really achievable and aligns with what the (Health) department wants”.
The strategy says Boort is home
to a rapidly ageing population with complex health needs. “As our population ages, we will face increased pressure on our health services and increased demand for chronic disease management.
“We will address the needs of our ageing population through social and economic investment to support wellbeing and independence.
“Our ambition is simple, high quality, accessible patient centred care, wherever and whenever we deliver it. Our patients, clients, residents and consumers will be at the heart of how we design and deliver services. Our clinical outcomes and our care
experience will be amongst the best in Victoria.”
Key planks of the strategy are:
Boort District Health will be the best place in rural Victoria or health staff to work and Boort District Health will be a great place to learn and shape the future of rural health service provision.
The primary focus of Boort District Health will be on promoting health, preventing illness, and providing equitable access to quality health services for all individuals within the community. We define health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely
the absence of disease or infirmity.”
The primary focus of Boort District Health is to ensure all individuals, regardless of their social or economic status, have access to quality healthcare services that address their physical, mental, and social needs.
At Monday’s annual general meeting, long service of staff and volunteers was recognised. Awards were announced for Gwen Parker, Elma Gierisch, Roslyn Wright and Kim Griffiths (15 years), Val Mayberry (20 years) and Sally Keeble who received a special presentation for 40 years of service.
THIS SATURDAY 21st December
Compo talks continue LANDOWNERS have been left waiting over Christmas on compensation details for the controversial VNI West renewable energy transmission line project.
Transmission Company Victoria confirmed on Tuesday that its wants feedback from the project’s community reference group on what “fair and reasonable payment could look like”.
Members have been asked for suggestions on compensation including yearon-year payments, linking payment to the title of the property rather than individuals and “considering payment for the time and mental load impacts for landholders to engage with TCV”.
Tuesday’s stakeholder update says there may be another session for the CRG members in the new year to follow-up.
“Responses to common questions, such as potential insurance implications for landowners, were also given in the (latest CRG) meeting,” the update said.
TCV says it is working with the Insurance Council of Australia to answer these questions and encourages landholders to “access the ICA’s factsheet on farm insurance and energy infrastructure” to answer their questions”.
Boort District Health’s Nicole Fuller, Donna Doyle and Kathryn Durie at Friday’s awards ceremony
Donations cracking cancer care code
DONATIONS from across the Loddon are helping Bendigo’s St John of God Hospital install cutting-edge robot surgical technology for cancer treatment.
Inglewood and District Community Bank has given $50,000 to the appeal and Lions clubs in Inglewood, Wedderburn and Charlton have also chipped in with donations to the hospital’s second-only appeal in almost 60 years that has seen more than $2 million raised.
Bank director Tim Birthisel and manager Michael Prowse visited the hospital on Monday as the robot was about to be unpacked.
The da Vinci Xi is a breakthrough in surgical technology that will enable high-precision cancer surgery for patients in Bendigo and the region without the need to travel to Melbourne, says hospital chief executive Michael Hogan. Mr Birthisel said the donation was spurred by the need for Lod-
don residents for more convenient access to treatment and the robot’s key in attracting specialists to the region to provide surgery and treatment.
The da Vinci Xi will enhance St John of God Hospital’s capabilities for prostate surgery, colorectal surgery and thoracic surgery.
Mr Hogan said St John of God Bendigo Hospital was committed to the best clinical outcomes for patients.
“Robotic surgery significantly
aids this commitment and will assist in reducing the health care disadvantage suffered by rural and regional patients,” he said.
“Specialists and patients will be very grateful for the help of our generous community to bring this trail-blazing technology to our hospital.”
Major donors to the appeal have included the Hazeldene family. The hospital says da Vinci robot will be ready to use early next year.
Dyl’s team strong run of support
RUNNERS are expected to receive a loud welcome when they arrive in Boort at the end of a cancer fundraising run this month.
The six have already raised more than $30,000 to support Boort District Hospital administration officer Dylan Hatcher.
Brother Chris and five mates will make the 24-hour run on December 28, arriving in Boort about midday the following day. They are inviting other supporters join the final 3km of the 240km run from Melbourne.
Dylan, who plays football for the local Magpies, started chemotherapy in September after a shock non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis that cut short his football season.
Money raised by the run will support Dylan and also the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
Dylan Hatcher
St John of God appeal director Anna Hill with the bank’s MIchael Prowse and Tim Birthisel as the da Vinci robot arrives. LH PHOTO
Lucy puts in leading year
CONSISTENT study, “release” activities and leadership have seen Boort District School’s Lucy Malone finish VCE as the Loddon’s top student.
The school’s 2024 co-captain last Thursday woke to receive her ATAR score of 97.40 and high study scores in physical education (43) and physics (40).
Principal Todd Woodfine said Lucy, the school’s dux this year, had been among a student cohort that achieved “a spread of positive results”.
VICTORIA
Zac MacIntosh had an ATAR of 96 with a study score of 42 in mathematical methods and 41 in physics.
Dylan Leerson received an ATAR of 93.14 with a study score of 40 in physics while Isabell Hosking received an ATAR of 90.70.
Boort students ranked among the state’s best also included Tayla Gooding with a study score of 41 in business management and Dylan Leerson (40) for physics, Lucy said her strategy for Year 12 had been to study consistently and not cram.
She did units three and four in health and human development last year and used that experience to be better prepared for the final year of secondary school.
“I made the most of study tips and the teachers were great in encouraging improvement in my class discussions,” she said.
Lucy’s 2024 subjects also included English, mathematical methods, specialist mathematics and physical education.
“Being school captain along
with Eddie (Moresi) and Eliza (Perryman) was great ... I am glad I did it,” she said.
“Leading the school in being part of the national push-up challenge to raise mental health awareness was special to us.”
VICTORIA HOTEL
marathons. “They technically doubled as study for physical education ... my best time was one hour and 53 minutes.”
Lucy has a gap year planned working at the local BP service station and on the farm.
PYRAMID HILL
Lucy said she continued to have a life balance during the year, captaining Boort’s women’s hockey side where she won the best and fairest and umpiring juniors.
She also competed in two half-
VICTORIA HOTEL
There will also be a trip to the United States mid-year working with Camp America.
“It will be good to have some experience out of Boort and I am interested to see a different part of the world, working with kids
The friendly pub open for meals every day with Friday happy hour, trivia, raffles and a chance to win $1,000
Trading hours
Monday – Open 3.00pm Dinner from 6.00pm
Tuesday – Open 2.00pm Dinner from 6.00pm
Wednesday – Open Midday
Lunch from 12.00pm
Dinner from 6.00pm
Pot’n’Parma Night
and gaining some life experience before heading to university,”
Lucy said.
She is looking to study a bachelor of mechanical engineering at either Adelaide or Melbourne with possible pathways into biomedicine to expand her learning in physics and mathematics.
Char Sinclair is the 2024 dux for East Loddon P12 College where she achieved a score of 84.9.
Char plans to take an Australian Defence Force gap year in 2025 — a chance for young people to get a feel for military life before potentially signing up — and then she’ll consider officially joining the ADF or police force in 2026.
Among other achieving VCE students at East Loddon was Ava Maxted with a score of 42 in equine studies.
WEDDERBURN Conservation Management Group is one of just seven Victorian organisations to receive a national Landcare grant last week.
The network has been awarded $20,000 for its Connect with Nature program.
The project aims to equip volunteers and community members, with the knowledge, skills, and tools to effectively contribute to local conservation efforts, including restoration and protection of the natural habitat of the malleefowl.
Landcare Australia grants went to 26 groups across Australia.
Other projects funded include $20,000 to support habitat for Southern Greater Gliders in the Strathbogie Ranges.
Nature group in special seven Water shares
THE seasonal determinations in the Murray, Goulburn and Loddon systems have been left unchanged at 100 per cent high-reliability water shares in this week’s announcement by Resource Manager Mark Bailey.
Loddon and Bullarook Creek remain without a lowreliability allocation with Bullarook Creek system allocated a five per cent highreliability share.
Monday – Open 3.00pm Dinner from 6.00pm Social Darts Night Tuesday – Open 2.00pm
Thursday – Open Midday
Dinner from 5.30pm
Steak’n’Pot Night
Friday – Open Midday
from 6.00pm Trivia Night
Lunch from 12.00pm Dinner from 5.30pm Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm
Wednesday – Open Midday
Lunch from 12.00pm Dinner from 6.00pm Pot’n’Parma Night
Raffle
Thursday – Open Midday Dinner from 5.30pm Steak’n’Pot Night
Saturday – Open Midday
Lunch from 12.00pm Dinner from 5.30pm Sunday – Open Midday
11.00pm
Loddon’s top students Lucy Malone (left) and Char Sinclair (above).
FLOOD RESTORATION PROGRAM
Loddon Shire Council is pleased to announce that the Federal and State Governments have approved $5.86 million in flood damaged road repair work through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, with an extra $3.26 million of works currently under review. Additionally, an estimated $10.74 million of works is yet to be submitted and assessed. Works on the approved repairs is already underway and will continue into 2025, with additional repairs expected to be approved and completed by June 2026.
Below is a list of approved road repair works. For further details on the Flood Restoration Program, please scan the QR code.
AMAROO RD
BARCLAY RD
BERRIMAL-NINE MILE RD
BIBLE CHRISTIAN RD
BOORT-KURTING RD
BOORT-YANDO RD
BORUNG-WEDDERBURN RD
BURNT BRIDGE RD
CANARY ISLAND-LEAGHUR RD
CHARLTON-BORUNG RD
COONOOER-GOWAR RD
DINGEE-ROCHESTER RD
DUNNS RD
EDWARDS LA FIERY FLAT RD
GOWAR-FENTONS CREEK RD
GOWAR NTH RD
HAMPSONS RD
HUGHES RD
INGLEWOOD-KORONG VALE RD
KINGOWER-BRENANAH RD
KINYPANIAL CENTRAL RD
KORONG VALE-BORUNG RD
KORONG VALE-KINYPANIAL RD
LANYON RD
MINCHA WEST RD
MURPHYS RD
MYSIA EAST RD
MYSIA WEST RD
NINE MILE-WEDDERBURN RD
OLD BOORT RD
OLD CHARLTON-BOORT RD
OLD MARMAL RD
OLD ST ARNAUD RD
PERRYS RD
PYRAMID-MINCHA RD
PYRAMID-YARRABERB RD
RICHMOND PLAINS-WEDDERBURN RD
ROTHACKERS RD
RYANS RD
SHELTONS RD
SPENCERS RD
TANDARRA-ELMORE RD
TANDARRA-SERPENTINE RD
TERRAPPEE CEMETERY RD
TORMEYS RD
VERLEYS RD
VERNON ST
WEAVERS RD
WEDDERBURN-BUCKRABANYULE RD
WEDDERBURN-DUNOLLY RD
WEDDERBURN-SERPENTINE RD
WEDDERBURN JUNCTION RD
WEDDERBURN-WYCHITELLA RD
WILKINSONS SWAMP RD
WRIGHTS RD
WYCHITELLA BUS ROUTE RD
WYCHITELLA-QUAMBATOOK RD
YAWONG SPRINGS RD
Council would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding as we restore roads and infrastructure impacted by flood events.
Generous gifts will bring joy to children
ANGLICARE collected special gifts from an overflowing Inglewood Community Neighbourhood House giving tree on Tuesday.
The agency’s acting assistant airector Tim McCormick said: “These gifts go to children who without this support may not get Christmas presents at all.”
December is a busy time for Anglicare with its workers sorting through all the gifts from local communities, the range of gifts received allows the staff to choose
personalised gifts for children they work with.
“It’s important to us that we are able to give the children a personalised gift rather than giving them a generalised present for their age group.” Mr McCormick said.
Mr McCormick along with Anglicare staff Brigitte Aylett and Corinne Johnson left with a carload of toys generously donated by Inglewood and surrounding communities.
- RUBY HYLAND
Fire levy hike ‘a blatant scam’
DOUBLING Victoria’s fire services levy has been branded a blatant State Government scam by Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh.
The Government last week announced the levy would jump from 8.7 cents per $1000 in a property’s capital improved value to 17.3 per cent.
The rebranded Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy will start next July and be extended to fund other agencies including the volunteer-based State Emergency Service.
“Commercial, industrial and primary production landowners will pay 100, 64 and 189 per cent more respectively – in a shock announcement coming just days after Labor’s fraudulent ‘economic growth statement’ which failed to reduce any tax on businesses,” Mr Walsh said.
“And it is a scam, we know full well this money is not going where it belongs, and
where it has been promised – to support the irreplaceable work done by our dedicated volunteer firefighters in CFA units across my electorate and across the state.
“The Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) will see all of Victoria’s emergency services, which are normally allocated funding in the annual state budget, now rely on the new levy to fund up to 95 per cent of their operations.”
The new levy will be collected by councils and appear on rates notices. The Government says it will work with councils to support implementation.
““After slashing tens of millions of dollars from Triple Zero Victoria, the State Emergency Service and the Country Fire Authority in the past two years, Labor now blames hardworking volunteers for a massive two-billion-dollar increase,” Mr Walsh said.
Anglicare’s Bridgitte Aylett, Tim McCormick and Corinne Johnson collect gifts from the giving tree
Dairy’s tick to build effluent pipeline
INSTALLATION of a private treated effluent pipeline at Calivil was approved by Loddon Shire councillors at their meeting on Tuesday.
Councillors were told the private treated effluent pipeline at Calmo Farms’ dairy would remove amenity issues and improve practices associated with the transportation of treated effluent resulting from the established intensive dairy feedlot within the farm.
“A pipeline would allow effluent to be handled with clean water during irrigation events on additional owned parcels forming part of the farm and be distributed over an additional 300 hectares of forage producing area owned and managed by Calmo Farms,” an officer report said.
“The pipeline would operate in a similar manner to a sewer rising main and would be constructed in accordance with relevant Australian Standards. The pipeline is a closed pipeline. Effluent sent through the pipe is treated, not raw effluent. The designed pressure within the proposed pipeline is significantly less than the designed maximum pressure of the class of pipe, being installed.
“The proposal is consistent with the purpose of the Farming Zone and relevant State and Local Planning Policy Framework as it relates to the support and en-
hancing agricultural production on the land. The pipeline would value add to the intensive dairy farm wastewater management and provide for more efficient practices over the farm.”
Councillors were told that historically the land has been used as a dairy for many years.
“A permit was issued in 2020 permitting the use and development of an intensive dairy on the land, which has included the construction of two new free stall sheds.
“The proposed private treated effluent pipe, which will transport effluent (liquid manure) from the established intensive dairy feedlot at Calivil Mail Road, to BoortMitiamo Road, in Calivil, seeks to remove the requirement for trucks to transport the treated effluent associated with the intensive dairy.
“Free stall dairy operations generate a significant amount of nutrients in manure and effluent that are best used as a soil amendment and fertiliser replacement on paddocks growing forages used to feed the herd.
“Reuse as a soil amendment supports a sustainable closing of the nutrient cycle.”
Two objections from neighbours were received, citing biosecurity concerns and proximity of the pipeline of houses and the risk of a ruptured pipe.
Straub leads regional council group
LODDON Mayor Dan Straub has been elected chairman of the Murray River Group of Councils.
Loddon and Gannawarra, Swan Hill, Mildura, Moira and Campaspe Shires are the member councils.
Cr Straub takes the chair by rotation from Gannawarra’s Ross Stanton.
The group is continuing its advocacy against the Federal Government’s current water buybacks across the Murray Darling Basin.
FLOOD RECOVERY CONTINUES
Yvonne’s back in home for Christmas
YVONNE Cashen has had an early Christmas with repairs to her Korong Vale home flooded twice in last summer’s storms finished.
Almost a year of living in a caravan ended a fortnight ago and she is now unpacking boxes stored in sheds while the work was done.
It’s a different pace from 12 months ago when Yvonne had Christmas Day plans that included cooking meals for local residents.
They were scuppered when more than 250mm of rain fell into Christmas Day, triggering a fortnight of storms and flooding that saw Wedderburn and Korong Vale hit three times in fortnight and rising rivers and creeks across the Loddon.
The first floods saw Craig Fuller at the Wedderburn Hotel cancel Christmas lunch bookings. The celebrations were postponed a day while around town friends and neighbours helped each other in the clean-up and sporting group volunteers waited for water to recede at Donaldson Park.
Yvonne was among district residents who raised concerns about
Back in her home ... Yvonne Cashen. LH PHOTO
drain maintenance increasing the impact of flood waters.
“The railway drain opposite my place had not been cleaned in years. This year, after the floods, I saw it being cleared and mowed and they (workers) even took photos of the finished job,” she said.
Last summer was the second time Yvonne’s home had been flood. She had lived through the 2010-2011 recovery.
“The insurance company has been fantastic. You hear com-
plaints about insurance companies but I’ve none with Australian Pensioners’ Insurance,” she said.
“The house was stripped bare and anything that had to be replaced has been.
“The new curtains will come after Christmas.
“As for Christmas Day this year, the plan is to just relax and then look forward and upwards.”
The summer floods inundated dozens of homes and destroyed hundreds of kilometres of fencing across the shire.
Government hurry-on: more work approved
THE State Government has lifted the pace of repair funding approval from the October 2022 floods.
Loddon Shire has been battling bureaucracy as it feared not meeting next June’s deadline to finish October 2022 flood repair projects.
The council has had only three groups of projects approved by August with $22 million of works stuck in the State Government’s in-tray.
Council had been critical of multiple layers of red tape to access the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements money under Federal and State Government emergency responses.
However, shire operations director Steve Phillips said this week that there has been a steady increase in the pace of approvals in the past two months.
“The current total value of the program is approximately $25 million. The work that remains yet to be delivered is approximately $20 million. The portion of this that is yet to be approved is approximately $14.8 million,” Mr Phillip said.
“Currently seven have been recently approved, two more are under review and 19 are being prepared by Council.”
Mr Phillip said there had been a marked improvement in the approval process. “Local Gov-
ernment and the Department of Transport and Planning along with Emergency Management Victoria, are constantly looking at ways to improve the process of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements,” Mr Phillips said.
Then-mayor Gavan Holt told councillors in September that he had been part of meetings with Victoria’s Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes.
Cr Holt said the indication from Ms Symes was given in talks with the Murray River Group of Councils.
“We were encouraged by the words of Minister Symes,” he said.
Delays were raised with Premier Jacinta Allan in early January as the region was hit last summer by floods for a second time in 14 months.
State Parliament’s environment and planning committee report on the October 2022 flood emergency this year called for recovery funding models to prioritise “betterment initiatives”.
The report found that had been left with a government flood recovery funding model that did not rebuild infrastructure to withstand future disasters.
“The feedback from councils to the committee clearly called for a more streamlined, efficient, and transparent disaster recovery funding process,” the report said.
New style for a grand time
WEDDERBURN’S new-look Christmas celebrations saw hundreds of people in the community house precinct on Friday evening. They enjoyed an evening of music, games and food. “What an absolutely wonderful time our community had coming together to celebrate the season! From family fun to fan-
tastic entertainment, it was a evening filled with laughter, joy, and holiday cheer,” said Wedderburn Community House co-ordinator Louise Cook.
Teacher Maddison Postle led the Wedderburn College junior choir in singing Christmas songs, including with Auslan, while mu-
sic teacher Morgan Harrold also entertained the crowd.
The community house handed over a $500 donation to Wedderburn Fire Brigade. Member Harry Hargreaves accept the cheque, proceeds raised from sales at the Peppercorn Op Shop.
Santa with Georgia, Emmie and Bec Chalmers. LH PHOTOS
Misty and Harley Williams with Tina Carter
Elizabeth Marr asnd Georgia Martin sing in the school choir
Blake Collins
Ray Tonkin
Belle Derk, Morgan Harrold and Izabell Baker
Pig’s snout in the Poole
FARMER David Poole more than played his part in Pyramid Hill Progress Association raising more than $3500 on Saturday night.
David won the town’s “popular vote” to kiss a pig, nudging out association president Drew Chislett, Loddon Mayor Dan Straub and other personalities.
Several hundred people were in Kelly Street when David was announced the winner and the pig was brought from its trailer ready for the moment of truth.
Adorned with a tiara and Christmas tinsel, David started to pucker up to the pig, saying: “I’ve been practising by eating lots of ham ... the last time I kissed someone I ended getting married.”
The cheers were so loud that David was encouraged to put a second pucker on the pig’s snout.
Mr Chislett said the novel competition had helped raise money for a free Australia Day party in the town and also towards future mural projects.
Earlier, the memorial hall had been full of stalls where the neighbourhood house had also run Christmas wreath-making workshops and Bendigo’s Marist Brass Band entertained.
Santa’s arrival during the evening, assisted by elf Vaughan Herrick, saw bags distributed to youngsters.
- CHRIS EARL
Kel Stewart and Elias Lanyon
Maddie Leerson, Edie Gould and Ruby Roberts
Local Filipinos enjoy the evening
Chloe Dehn, Alina Gould and Rylan Chislett
David Poole puckers up the pig in Pyramid Hill. LH PHOTOS
Sensational street scenes
BOORT’S main street was filled with Christmas cheer Friday evening as the crowds gathered to celebrate the annual Christmas Street Party.
The street was lined with market stalls for people to peruse for unique Christmas gifts as they listened to the live music played by the Boort Babblers, Rocket Clock, Serpentine’s Lou Green and local singing sensation Elias Lanyon throughout the evening.
A visit from Santa on a golf cart was the highlight of the night for many children as Santa handed out bags of lollies. A rock-climbing wall and jumping castle were also busy stations with a line of kids ready for their go.
A barbeque ran by community members as well as food vans supplied plenty of options for dinner, and the shaded grass areas near the band became picnic areas to soak up the vibe of the night.
2025 Council Meeting dates
The schedule for the meetings of Council 2025, is as follows, with the meetings to commence at 3pm in the Loddon Shire Council Chambers, located behind the Wedderburn Council O ces.
Tuesday 28 January 2025
Tuesday 25 February 2025
Tuesday 25 March 2025
Tuesday 22 April 2025
Tuesday 27 May 2025
Tuesday 24 June 2025
Tuesday 22 July 2025
Tuesday 26 August 2025
Tuesday 23 September 2025
Tuesday 28 October 2025
Tuesday 25 November 2025
Tuesday 9 December 2025 Council o ers
Cr
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BRIDGEWATER on Loddon Development’s community Christmas celebrations last week saw Matt and Priscella Wernert (above) helping Santa while students from Bridgewater and Tarnagulla Primary Schools joined to sing festive songs. LH PHOTOS
Violet Verley-Knight, Lachlan, Fletcher, Richelle and Olivia Knight at Boort. LH PHOTOS
Jean and Daryl Henderson with Robert Sim; Lenny, Hugh and Airlie Johnston; Alan and Pam Gould with Marj Potter
Lions club toy run a big hit with school students
BRIDGEWATER Playgroup and Primary School had a jolly guest visit them on Monday when despite missing his usual fire truck transportation Santa was welcomed by all the children.
Santa’s fire truck was unable to be used this year due to the extreme fire danger rating and high temperatures.
He instead rolled up to the school in a car this year to ensure all fire trucks were available to be used if needed.
Santa’s elves Meg and Tom Alberni helped Santa hand out the presents to the primary school students.
Once everyone received their gift the classroom was a flurry of wrapping paper and excitement as children opened their gifts.
Inglewood Lions Club again organised the toy run with Santa starting his busy schedule at Inglewood Primary School and St Mary’s Primary School before heading for Tarnagulla Primary School.
After a hectic morning bring joy to youngsters, Santa took a well-earned rest before again hitching up his sleigh for visits to community events across the Loddon.
Feedback
from landholders and the community is critical to shape the VNI West project
How landholders can influence the location of infrastructure proposed for their properties?
Since October, we have been reaching out to landholders and neighbours to discuss the 70m preferred easement for the new VNI West transmission line.
We want to understand how best to minimise the impacts of the project on your farm, your business and your future plans – but we need your help.
TCV’s dedicated Landholder Liaisons are available to meet and listen to your feedback: you are best placed to tell us how we can design the transmission lines and locate the towers, so they will cause the least possible disruption to your property and business.
These are important discussions, and the best way to ensure that your voice is heard and considered in the final project design.
Talking to TCV does not indicate your support for the project or allow us to access your land - but your early feedback on proposed tower locations is essential. Discussions are also critical to ensuring you receive fair and reasonable compensation, that considers your unique circumstances.
Have your say on EES assessments
The Environment Effects Statement (EES) is Victoria’s most rigorous assessment of potential environmental impacts for major projects. As part of the EES, independent specialists are undertaking studies on the potential
Wrapping paper goes fliying as Bridgewater students open gifts from Santa. LH PHOTO
The Australian wool market has had another series of minimal price movements, culminating in an overall marginal decrease. The national offering was 38,172 bales, this was just 253 fewer bales than the previous week. The market movements were varied across microns and regions. The movements in the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) across the country ranged between plus 25 and minus 31 cents. The 19.0 micron and finer MPGs in the West posting the largest increases, while the 18.0 micron and finer MPGs in the North recorded the largest falls. On the first selling day the benchmark AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) fell by 2 cents. This was the nineteenth selling day in a row where the EMI recorded a single digit movement. On the final day the EMI recorded no movement, finishing the day unchanged. This stretched the run of single digit movements to 20. This was the longest run of single digit daily movements since a run of 25 between October 2014 and January 2015. The EMI finished the series just two cents lower, closing the week at 1,140 cents. A weaker Australian dollar (the AUD fell by 0.45 US cents since the close of the previous series) meant that when viewed in US dollar terms, the overall market reduction was larger The EMI dropped 6 US cents for the week, closing at 728 US cents. This week hosts the final sale for the 2024 calendar year, this sale was restricted to a two-day Tuesday/Wednesday sale to adhere to the business rule that there must be four business days between the final sale day and Christmas day. There was no need to restrict quantities on this occasion as all regional centres were below the allowed two-day sale lot maximums. There is expected to be 35,912 bales on offer nationally.
Chris Anderson Territory Sales Manager | 0408 921 540
Glenn Jackson | Merchandise Manager | 0429 076 459
HEAVY sheep gave the Christmas joy at Bendigo on Monday for the last sale of the year, gaining $10 to $20/head with big crossbred ewes to $164 and young Merino ewes to $180/head.
Lamb price varied depending on quality, buyers favouring shorn lambs over the woolly young types still coming in. Some of the drier woolly young lambs were cheaper, while the best shorn lambs tracked a few dollars either side of last week’s price results.
Overall the lamb market didn’t have the intensity of a week ago and there were signs some processors were not prepared to push the market any dearer than what it has been recently.
The ballpark cost to processors was 850c to 950c/kg cwt for the best presented lambs, while the general run of trades and off woolly types were 750c to 850c/ kg cwt. The best heavy shorn lambs in the 26-30kg cwt range $239 to a top of $280/ head. Heavy trade shorn lambs $220 to $236/head. Unshorn young lambs reached $252/head.
There was a lot of unshorn young trade lambs which sold in a range of $166 to $215/head. Small lambs to the paddock firmed a few dollars, boosted by some good results for a few neat lines of crossbreds. The price range was $76 to $137/head to average $110/head to the paddock. Bigger framed lambs to restockers and feeders $140 to $156/head.
Export competition for a limited selection of heavy sheep was strong, and carried over into the big hoggets which sold to a top of $247/head. Big crossbred ewes $130 to $164/head, and heavy Merino ewes $118 to $180/head.
Good lines of heavy mutton were estimated as costing processors 430c to 480c/
Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report
A fully firm market on last week with strong competition for all sheep and lambs with weight.
To discuss the marketing opportunities available for your livestock, contact the McKean McGregor team. Monday, December 16th, 2024 - Bendigo Yarding: Lambs - 16,000 | Sheep - 8,000
Alex
kg cwt with individual pens higher at times.
Competition was not so robust over lighter trade sheep which were often cheaper and sold below the 400c/kg cwt threshold at times. Lighter sheep mostly $60 to $90/head, plainest ewes down to $39/head.
This was the final sale at Bendigo for 2024. The prime lamb and sheep sale will recommence on January 6.
SUCKERS
BENDIGO
Success achieved through whole school learning and culture
BOORT District School, from Foundation to Year 12 had continued to provide the best educational opportunities for all our students throughout the year including a wide variety extra-curricular activities and community events experienced by students, says principal Tood Woodfine..
“We have achieved success throughout the year by creating a whole school culture of agreed high quality teaching and learning and effectively mobilising available resources to support student’s health and wellbeing,”
Mr Woodfine said at this week’s awards night.
“I would like to thank our school captains, Lucy Malone, Eliza Perryman and Eddie Moresi who have displayed outstanding leadership skills and have been active role models for our school community throughout this year.
“You should be very proud of the way you have worked together and represented our school on numerous occasions throughout the year.
“I would also like to acknowl-
edge our 2025 school captains, Sienna Boyd, Jasmine Twigg and Harry Malone who will provide strong leadership for our student body and represent our school at community events throughout next year.”
Mr Woodfine also acknowledged involvement and support of parents and the community.
EFFORT AWARDS: Grace Binu, James Bojo, Sienna Boyd, Carrie Byrne, Owen Byrne, Allarah Ceballos, Eleanor Dooley, Mia Farrar, Lauren Gawne, Indianna Gooding, Natalie Hall, Chloe Hare, Eliana Haw, Archer Lee, Samuel McClelland, Seth Muller, Indi O’Flaherty, Eva Perryman, Abby Potter, Bella Quinn, Pranav Sharma, Laci Streader, Jasmine Twigg, Maria Umali, Cleo Velleley, Caitlin Zanker, Tristian Zanker.
ACHIEVEMENT AND EFFORT: Finlay Arnold, Sophie Barraclough, Layla Hare, William Haw, Alisha Henderson, Emily Henderson, Amelia Hosking, Anna Lanyon, Tia Lanyon, Victoria Lanyon, Jacob Malone, Bridget Perryman, Hayley Stringer, Hannah Talbot, Angel Vincy Sinu.
KLAS - One KLA award: Alisha Henderson - Arts, Madeleine Lanyon - Commerce, Ella Maxted – Commerce, James Hercott – English, Connor McNally – Health PE, Danica Niven - Humanities, Emma Malone – Humanities, William Haw - Math, Zak MacIntosh - Math, Ella Streader - NCTTC, Kathleen Hocking –NCTTC, Anna Lanyon - NCTTC, Laci Streader
– NCTTC, Malawi Marsh - Science, Isabelle Hosking - Science, Jacob Malone – Technology. Two KLA awards: Tia Lanyon – Arts and Technology, Tayla Gooding – Commerce and Health PE, Layla Hare – English and Technology, Lucy Malone – English and Health PE, Abby Potter – Health PE and Humanities, Sidney Caine – Math and Science, Dylan Leersen – Math and Science. Three KLA awards: Angel Vincy Sinu – Arts, Commerce and Technology. Four KLA awards: Eliana Haw – Arts, English, Health PE and Humanities. Five KLA awards: Emily Henderson – Arts, English, Math, Science and Technology.
SPORTING AWARDS: Hannah Talbot, Connor McNally, Carrie Byrne, Hayley Stringer, Bridget Perryman, Pearl Muller, Victoria Lanyon, Cleo Velleley, Indi O’Flaherty, Archer Lee, Liam King, Noah Howe, Amelia Hosking, Indie Gooding, Abby Potter, Darby Perryman, Seth Muller, Brodie McPherson, Chaise Hird, Laci Streader, Bella Quinn, Jake O’Flaherty, Anna Lanyon, Cooper Gooding, Finlay Arnold, Emma Malone, Deacon Hird, Eliana Haw, Luke Boyd, Sam Toose, Ella Streader, Jack Potter, James Hercott, Lachlan Hall, Mia Farrar, Max Beattie, Brodie Arnold, Eliza Perryman, Eddie Moresi, Lucy Malone, Zak MacIntosh, Isabelle Hosking, Alex Cockerell, Alex Chamberlain. SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA
ENGLISH WRITING PRIZES: Yr5/6 – Layla Hare, Hannah Talbot. Yr 7/8 – Jacob Malone , Emily Henderson. Yr 9/10 – Eliana Haw. Yr 11/12 – Eddie Moresi, Lucy Malone
Congratula�ons and well done
Boort District School
congratulates all our students on their achievements throughout 2024.
To our departing Year 12 students, you have enriched our school and we will follow your journey with great pride.
We thank our staff, parents and the wider community for their support and assistance.
2024
ACADEMIC AWARDS
COBRAM ESTATE DUX OF 2024
Lucy Malone
NUTRIEN AG SCHOLARSHIP
facilitated by North Central LLEN
Kathleen Hocking
NORTH CENTRAL LLEN Vocational Pathways
Award
Jett Hird
DON KERR MEMORIAL AWARD
Jasmine Twigg
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE AWARDS
Yr 10 Long Tan Award – Sidney Caine
Yr 12 Long Tan Award – Eddie Moresi
Yr 10 Future Innovators Award – Sidney Caine
Yr 12 Future Innovators Award – Dylan Leersen
COBRAM ESTATE CITIZENSHIP
SCHOLARSHIP
Eddie Moresi
KWONG LEE DOW YOUNG SCHOLARS
PROGRAM
Sidney Caine
school captains Lucy Malone, Eddie Moresi, Eliza Perryman and Principal Todd Woodfine
Graduating classes of 2025: Year 12 (above) and Year 6 (below)
Jace show passion and care in leadership year
ST PATRICK’S Primary School
Pyramid Hill community has wished its grade six student Jace Pacala a successful and joy filled year as he moves on to secondary school.
Principal John O’Connor says Jace has been a responsible, compassionate and caring member of the school and has taken to his leadership role over the year with great care.
“Jace has taken every opportunity to be involved in a range of different activities from the Student Leadership Conference in Echuca to school sports days and has used each experience to support and care for other students through his leadership.”
He has a special place in the history of St Patrick’s as the last Grade 6 student to graduate in the 68-year history of the school.
The St Patrick’s era of education in the Pyramid Hill district will end this week. A special commemorative Mass this month celebrated the achievements of hundreds of students since the school opened in 1956.
Jace Pacala kicks to a special place in St Patrick‘s Catholic Primary School Pyramid Hill history
Bruce and Angus graduate with pride
Honouring leadership, excellence, and community spirit
BRIDGEWATER Primary School has proudly celebrated the graduation of its two Grade 6 students, Bruce Bennie and Angus Ferguson, at this year’s awards night.
Bruce joined Bridgewater Primary in Grade 5 and quickly became an integral part of our school community.
His leadership skills were recognised this year when he was named vice-captain.
At the awards night, Bruce was presented with the Excellence Award for his outstanding academic achievements, generously sponsored by the Kooyoora Women’s Network.
Principal Matthew Lehane said: “Bruce has made a lasting impact on our school community during his time here, and we look
forward to seeing all that he will achieve in the years ahead.”
Angus has been a part of Bridgewater Primary since starting in Foundation in 2017.
This year, Angus was school captain, demonstrating strong leadership, a love of sport, and a commitment to school values.
A passionate football and cricket player, Angus was awarded the Allan Bunnett Memorial Award.
This award recognises a student who exemplifies integrity, community spirit, and pride in our school, reflecting the legacy of Allan Bunnett.
“Angus’s contribution to our school has been outstanding, and we know he will continue to thrive as he takes the next step in his education,” Mr Lehane said.
In addition to celebrating the two graduates, several other students were recognised for their achievements and contributions:
Amaya Warke received the
School Value of Respect Award, generously donated by Loddon Shire, for exemplifying the value of respect in her interactions with peers and teachers.
Ruby Wilson was recognised for her outstanding Improvement in Learning, also sponsored by Loddon Shire, reflecting her commitment to academic growth.
Emily Bailey was awarded for Displaying the Value of Relationships, an honour donated by the Inbglewood Lions Club, recognising her ability to foster positive and meaningful connections within the school community.
The awards night was a special occasion for the Bridgewater community.
“We were able to celebrate the achievements of our students and recognising their hard work, leadership, and commitment to our school values,” Mr Lehane said.
New horizons for study and work
EAST Loddon P12 College has celebrated the end of 13 years of schooling for its year 12 students and farewelled them with the Valedictory Dinner at the East Loddon Woolshed.
The dinner completed an exciting final day of school for the 2024 VCE cohort.
Now that they have completed their studies the students are looking to the future with a range of different plans.
Many students have received early entry offers to various universities, while others are planning their gaps years which includes international travel for some.
Other students have begun working in a variety of different industries such as agriculture, hospitality or mining, with one student receiving an offer for a full-time apprenticeship in 2025.
The Year 12 students, Alex
Fletcher, Daisy Stringer, Charlize Sinclair, Cade Tuohey, Ava Scott, Amy Tomic, Addy Humphries, Isaac Johnstone McCloud, Brodie Wagner, Issy Morrison, Mason Hocking, Hollee Vinnicombe, Ned Cartwright, Madi Lenton, Lilly Hocking and Jackson Luckman will be missed by the school community immensely.
The Middle School has celebrated the graduation of its 25 Year 8 students and acknowledged their contribution to the school with their remarkable leadership.
School captains Ruby Cullen and Oscar Balic have been role models for other students with their work in guiding their younger peers and fostering a positive atmosphere in the school. During the Middle Years, students have completed various subjects and attended camps in Raglan, Rubicon, Trafalgar, and Melbourne and have worked to
strengthen the Middle School’s supportive and inclusive community.
Year 4 students have exhibited remarkable leadership within the Junior Sub-school. They have supported their younger peers, maintained a positive attitude, and shared their enthusiasm with everyone. Their leadership and assistance to those in need have been highly commendable.
In Term 3, students ventured to the Grampians, where they faced personal challenges and developed independence. To conclude the year, they celebrated with a joint ceremony alongside Year 8 students. Sub-School captains, Billie Addlem and Cooper Smyth, displayed exceptional leadership, frequently presenting at P-12 assemblies. Next year, Year 4 students will embark on the next phase of their journey as they move into the middle sub-school.
MIddle sub-school students at East Loddon (above) and the colleges junior sub-school students (below)
Big steps in an exciting year
ANOTHER busy but exciting year at Wedderburn College, with many successes and milestones to celebrate. 2024 marked 25 years of Wedderburn P-12 College and the celebrations were an excellent opportunity to reunite former staff and students.
We launched our Indigenous Mural Tank on the occasion, that was collaboratively painted by students, and artist Tobie Cameron.
We look forward to recognising another milestone in 2025 as we reach 160 years of Education in Wedderburn during the first week of July.
To commemorate this occasion, we are producing a high quality, hardback coffee table book featuring all of the tried and true local family recipes. We would love you to submit your family recipe for consideration by using the link: https://forms.gle/qcev3aFiqaTmeYn46
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have your family name in an historical Wedderburn keepsake to be passed down for gen-
erations to come. This year was when we became the first F-12 school, and the first in the Bendigo region, to achieve the ‘Gold Standard for SWPBS’ (SchoolWide Positive Behaviour Supports). We are immensely proud of this award and are continuing to strengthen our SWPBS implementation.
Our building works have been another highlight of 2024, with our new Science block now operating, along with a new cafe decking area, wheelchair ramps, amenities and landscaping. Fur-
ther upgrades to the college are still in progress and we look forward to enjoying these spaces next year.
The Reading Olympics was a new addition to the school calendar this year and was well received by students, staff and families. This is a long term reading challenge that will continue to grow and encouraged all students to read more.
It was another successful school fete, enjoyed by the Wedderburn community and beyond. Rides galore, classroom stalls,
community stalls, obnoxiously extravagant chocolate easter raffle, music ... A calendar highlight each year!
Wedderburn College recognises the value of school camps and in 2024 we were able to provide the opportunity for all students from years 3 to 12 to attend a school camp. Our Duke of Edinburgh students were able to experience a range of camp opportunities.
Our Structured Workplace Learning was again a success, with students engaging with businesses to build valuable work related skills. We wish to thank the businesses that supported our students.
Throughout the year, our staff undertook a range of professional development. Our staff continued to embed our LEARN model that supports consistent, predictable routines for our students and teachers.
Quality practice is important to the staff at Wedderburn College. Through weekly meetings, the staff have been well supported
to implement evidence-based teaching and look forward to continuing to prioritise and refine this in 2025.
Beyond academics, our school has prioritised social and emotional learning, thanks to a very dedicated wellbeing team and our school therapy dog, Yindi, from the Dogs Connect program.
On the sporting front, our two houses Ansett and Jacka, competed ferociously throughout the year. Ansett took out the Aggregate Cup after winning the Swimming Sports, Reading Olympics and Cross Country, and Jacka taking out the Primary and Secondary Athletics. Our participation at these events has gone from strength to strength with a strong focus on attendance and ‘having a go’.
On behalf of Wedderburn College, we wish everyone a safe and happy holiday period and look forward to sharing more with you all next year. Stay tuned for more information about our 160 years of Education in Wedderburn celebrations.
Citizenship award recipients Kayla Cramp and Tyson Blair
Fantastic Four ready for secondary journey
THE community at Inglewood Primary School has proudly bid farewell to their grade sixes, the “Fantastic Four”, Natalie and Jayden Smith, Rhiannon Murphy and Thane Ball, who will be moving on to secondary school in the new year.
They have all left their mark on the school with their embodiment of the school values; be kind, work hard and grow togeth-
er, shown through their leadership and compassion throughout the year.
They leave behind a lasting monument of a pump track on the oval, built using funds they raised from their small business.
The four have big dreams for their futures, Natalie wants to open a pet store and help people care for their pets the best way they possibly can.
Jayden is preparing for the glitz and glam of Hollywood with his plans to star in horror films and become a famous actor.
Thane would like to be a doctor or a vet so he can make a difference in the world and continue to help people and animals.
Rhiannon is aiming for the sky with her plans to become an airhostess and travel the world, hopefully for free.
SBAT recipient and winner of
Wedderburn College student Maikia Punguika (above) with employer Mark Guillot from MOA Plumbing Services recognised with a North Central LLEN Industry Engagement Award.
the Boort Secondary School Work-Based Learning award Jett Hird (left) with employer Matt Kane.
Inglewood’s Fantastic Four with teacher Rebecca Luckman
Graduating class full of good sports
THE Pyramid Hill College Year 10 dinner was a memorable event held at the Victoria Hotel lounge.
All students looked exceptional, making themselves, their families, and the school community immensely proud. The theme, ‘Brownlow Medal Night,’ was a great success as students walked the red carpet, creating a glamorous and celebratory atmosphere.
The evening provided an opportunity to celebrate each student’s achievements, drawing inspiration from football awards. Students then delivered heartfelt reflections on their years at Pyramid Hill College, showcasing their growth and accomplishments. The award recipients were as follows:
Shamica Castro – Best Team Player
Jasmine Doverte – Rising Star
Jack Gould – Most Determined
Chloe Stevens – Most Improved
Eloise Walters – Most Consistent Effort Award
Dempsey Lee – Exceptional Commitment
Jaxon Peter – Youth Development
Olli Quaife – Leading Goalkicker
Jed Stewart – Coaches Award
“We wish all our Year 10 students the very best as they embark on the next chapter of their education or enter the workforce,” said Principal Fiona Moon. “While we bid farewell to this wonderful group of students, we also say goodbye to some families whose youngest child is leaving our school community. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Ben and Jess Lee, and Don and Meg Stewart for their unwavering support and significant contributions to Pyramid Hill College over the years.”
Mrs. Moon added: “Although we will miss our 2024 Year 10 students, we are excited to see what the future holds for them. We encourage them to stay connected and look forward to celebrating their achievements in the years ahead.”
The Year 6 graduation was another joyful celebration, with parents joining students and staff for a special lunch in the BER. Students shared treasured memories through speeches, creating moments of laughter and nostalgia. Graduation bears were presented as keepsakes to commemorate the occasion.
Congratulations to Brady Gilmore, Isabella Kunde, Sasha Lobb, Samer Mohammed, Tyler Pollard, and Elsie Poole on their successful completion of primary school. We wish them every success as they transition to secondary education.
Pyramid Hill College would like to thank all students, staff, families and our community for their ongoing support through 2024. We wish all readers a ‘Merry Christmas’ and a ‘Happy New Year’. May 2025 be full of
Overall Excellence
Olivia Scott
Elsie Poole
Thomas Hercott
Matt Caspani
Sophie Twigg
Michaella Reganit
Alina Gould
Ollie Quaife
Outstanding Effort
Maddie Leerson Jasper Mutugi
Tia Gould
Matt Policarpio Isabella Kunde
Charlotte Pickles Daemon Coussa
Rian Pantig
Jamison Walters
William Hercott
Sophie Gilmore
Riley Fergusson
Cecily Farar
Chloe Stevens
Dempsey Lee
Primary: Lucy Scott
Secondary: Charlotte Pickles
2024 Special Awards
Loddon Shire Award:-
Primary: Elsie Poole
Secondary: Ollie Quaife
Principal’s Award:-
Primary: Brady Gilmore
Secondary: Shamica Castro
Ampol All-rounder Award: Dempsey Lee
Long Tan Award: Jed Stewart
ASPIRE Award: Isabelle Kunde
Ern and Mavis Ferris Award: Chloe Stevens
Lions Club Ci�zenship Award: Eloise Walters
Nutrien Ag Award: Jack Gould
North Central LLEN Pathways: Jasmine Doverte
North Central LLEN Workplace: Coffee Bank
Cohuna Bus Driver Award: Jaxon Peter
Elsie Poole Ollie Quaife
Shamica Castro
Brady Gilmore
Pyramid Hill College’s Year 10 class of 2024 at the graduation dinner
Year 6 students with their graduation bears
New model helps with learning
AS THE St. Mary’s community prepares to celebrate the Class of 2024, we take a moment to reflect on the achievements of this wonderful group.
Over the years Abby Wilson, Corrado Lynch and Ryan Isaac (pictured) have shown resilience, creativity, and a dedication to excellence, not only in academics but across a wide range of extracurricular activities. Their leadership has made a lasting impact on the school.
This year, St. Mary’s saw impressive growth, particularly with the introduction of a new flexible teaching model for using multi age classrooms, which allowed for more personalised learning. This model will be used again in 2025 with the two rooms becoming one, along with the use of the library for the combined F-6 classes.
The Grand Opening of the Nano Nagle Centre was a momentous occasion for the entire St. Mary’s
community. Another highlight was the return of St Mary’s Trivia Night, after a hiatus due to COVID, which was a resounding success.
Year 5 and 6 students enjoyed a memorable camp in Melbourne, further cementing the school’s focus on community and connection. Students also participated in hands-on sustainability workshops at the IDHS Community Garden, learning valuable gardening skills while connecting with the local environment.
Looking ahead, St. Mary’s will embrace the Magnify Sandhurst program, a new diocesan ini-
tiative that will reshape the way students engage with their learning. This program, launching in 2025, promises to be a gamechanger for the school’s educational approach.
The Mental Health in Primary Schools project will also commence in 2025, with a state funded position for a Wellbeing Coordinator being introduced.
As we look forward to the graduation Mass and awards and our Nativity Play, we are excited for the future and the continued success of our students.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024!
Inspirational work in year of learning growth
THIS year has been a fantastic year for Tarnagulla Primary School. Students have participated in many excursions.
Over the past school year we have noticed outstanding work and behaviour from many students, to recognise this we had our awards night on Tuesday and presented the following awards.
Ryder Bass received the Maths Award for his demonstrated commitment to learning through his bookwork and collaboration. These efforts have shone through in his academic growth.
Miranda Watters collected the English award. She has many barriers and challenges in progressing her learning but has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and perseverance throughout the year. Miranda has shown inspirational academic growth.
Archer Bass has demonstrated considerable skills in all areas of sport and has been given the Sport award. He took a leadership role in assisting coaching during the AFL unit and has continued to develop his sportsmanship in
all aspect of the game. Archer has made great progress this year.
Art is an important subject across the school and this year
Lilith Angelo was the recipient of the Art award. Lilith has demonstrated a variety of newly acquired skills in her drawing and painting, particularly in the depth of her art works.
The school is built around three values: Safety First. Respect Always. Effort before Achievement. Each year we recognise a student who has consistently demonstrated these values and encouraged others to do the same. The School Values award this year went to Olivia Watters.
Science is a critical thinking discipline in our modern society and Samuel Buckingham has consistently demonstrated the personal qualities required for successfully excelling in science. He received the Science award recognising careful planning, attention to detail, and ability to use data and evidence to support hypotheses. Samuel has continued to progress his science skills.
Headstart in apprenticeships
EACH year, the North Central LLEN partners with Loddon Shire schools and the North Central Trade Training Centre to support students wanting to undertake vocational education and training (VET) as part of their secondary school studies.
In 2024, approximately 68 students from Boort District School, East Loddon P-12 School, Pyramid Hill College and Wedderburn College completed vocational studies at the North Central Trade Training Centre in one of 12 subjects including agriculture, allied health, animal care, automotive, beauty services, building and construction, community services, engineering studies, hospitality, music operations, salon assistant and sport and recreation.
In addition, 16 students participated in Head Start School-Based Apprenticeships (SBATs) where they receive paid on-the-job training that contributes to their VCE, VCE Vocational Major or VPC and leads to a qualification.
There are many benefits to
students undertaking vocational studies or SBATs – in some cases it can contribute towards their Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) score which can improve access to further education and training, and at the same time they are gaining skills, capabilities and confidence that provide pathways to employment.
North Central LLEN CEO Jane Hosking says no two individuals are the same, and their paths should not be either.
“Gone are the days when a de-
gree was the only ticket to success - now we’re seeing students explore vocational training, apprenticeships, and online courses—options that let them shape their own unique journey based on strengths and aspirations.”
“Employers highly value VET because it builds entry-level skills in different industry areas and provides a practical introduction into workplace requirements, therefore enhancing employability skills,” she said.
A number of this year’s VET
students are now going on to pursue traineeships or apprenticeships in their chosen area of vocational study, and we sincerely thank the many employers from across the region who have supported vocational education pathways this year through the provision of work experience opportunities, structured workplace learning placements, and/ or school-based apprenticeships.
The new My Local Jobs website supported by the NCLLEN is a one-stop employment portal con-
Industry Engagement Award Winner Calmo farms ... East Loddon P12 College student
Max Gray at the SBAT signing earlier this year with Max Gray, Rob Hakney (MMTC), Belinda Clymo (Calmo Farms) and Sarah Krahe (East Loddon P12 College)
necting job seekers with employers from Macedon to the Murray and is a great place for graduating students to find entry-level employment opportunities.
We would like to congratulate all Loddon students who completed VCE or the new VCE Vocational Major in 2024 and wish them every success in the future. We can’t wait to see where their journey takes them.
For more information, please visit www.ncllen.org.au.
Market’s strong finish Co-op tips receivals will
SHEEP and lamb prices have finished the year strongly for Loddon graziers.
Stock agents saw a market top price of $280 at Bendigo on Monday as selling started early and numbers were capped to beat the heat.
Inglewood stock agent and president of the Bendigo Associated Stock Agents Association Chris Nevins said market prices had held well throughout 2024.
Mr Nevins said Monday’s top prices were not far off the $300 achieved late last month by Kamarooka North’s Des O’Donoghue.
With more than 65 per cent of stock put through the Bendigo Livestock Exchange coming from the Loddon Shire, the weekly market remains a key barometer for local farmers.
One of the sellers this week was Axedale’s Bernie Roney who leases land to Brenanah to graze 500 head of sheep.
Mr Roney on Monday sold 132 head. “Grass is a bit sparse in that area at the moment ... no decent rain since February in what has been a dry year.”
Mr Nevins said stock numbers held by farmers “are back a bit at the moment”.
“Many have already sold what they wanted and are comfortable with their current set up. They will have plenty of grain to feed stock and won’t be under that type of pressure for now,” he said.
Stock agents started Monday’s sale at the earlier time of 7.30am and selling was wrapped up in under three hours. Numbers were also capped to a maximum 19,000.
Meanwhile, City of Greater Bendigo on Monday night approved development of an organics waste facility on land next to the livestock exchange.
Council said it had discussed plans with the livestock exchange advisory committee that included buyer and producer advocates/agents, who represent farmers.
HARVEST across the Loddon was expected to be wrapped up by Christmas, Boort Grain Co-op manager Jon Bucknall said on Tuesday,
Mr Bucknall said only a few small pockets, no more than five per cent of the region’s crops, would be left to harvest by late next week.
He said the region’s major receival site had received 190,000 tonnes of grain by Monday.
“We will easily get to 200,000 tonnes ... how much more we don’t know yet,” Mr Bucknall said.
Last year, Boort Grain Co-op received 230,000 tonnes during harvest.
A steady stream of deliveries of canola, wheat and barley saw four days last week when trucks carted in more than 10,000 tonnes daily.
“We’ll be more than 95 per cent done by Christmas. The harvest started about two weeks earlier this season and everything was running well until the rain hit in late November,” he said.
“Then there was real stop-start but the last 10 days has seen a reasonable run.
Mr Bucknall said September predictions had been for an average harvest and while rains had downgraded some wheat quality. there remained good pockets.
“The season’s quality has certainly fallen into two parts - pre and post-rain when before November milling wheats and malt barley were very good,” he said.
“There has been a downgrading of a lot of wheat to standard feed wheat level and while prices initially dropped about $40, they have recovered at least $30 in last week or so.
“Prices have been holding pretty well throughout the harvest and this area has been fortunate for yields and pricing,” Mr Bucknall said.
Meanwhile, Graincorp last week received 610,900 tonnes in Victoria bringing the total received to 2,041,900 tonnes.
GrainCorp says its network remains highly active, with more than 190,000 tonnes of grain outloaded last week as part of a strong and ongoing outload program.
Stock agents association president Chris Nevins (top) and buyers at Monday’s sale. LH PHOTOS
January
THE year started with floods across the region and a dramatic Wedderburn creek rescue by six local heroes after a man was trapped in raging waters. Mobile phone connectivity concerns were heightened by the emergency with calls for action. Animal management probe starts at Newbridge farm. First steps to revive Wedderburn’s SES unit that was non-operational during the summer storms. Mincha’s Lloyd Mills celebrated his 100th birthday while Gary Meadows, owner of the former Boort and Quambatook Standard died. Jude Raftis and Samantha Bewley citizens of the year.
THIN blue line concerns as Loddon’s three northern towns left without permanent police presence. Serpentine and Pyramid Hill stations manned later in the year. Inglewood and District Health Services receives $5.1 million for upgrade of urgent and acute care. Mal and Leanne Burge end era as Wedderburn news-agents. Loddon artist Sarah Wallace-Smith wins Pyramid Hill Major’s Vision art prize. Todd Woodfine new principal at Boort District School and Coliban urges restraint in water use at Bridgewater and Inglewood during hot spell. Inglewood trader anger on footpath goods crackdown.
YOUNG farmers descended on Bridgewater for the Birchip Cropping Group network ball while hundreds of old vehicles were part of the Run to Newbridge. Popup consultations for VNI West renewable energy transmission project start as critics slam continued lack of consultation. Goulburn Murray Water announces its Pyramid Hill office and depot will close. Julie Ramsay awarded top volunteer award by Kooyoora Women’s Network and Inglewood’s Enzo Scafati releases CD raising funds for Dementia Australia. Geoff Arnott launches new book on Wedderburn soldiers.
BRADLEY Haw claimed a world record for paddling a pumpkin on the Murray River at Easter while thousands of people were at the 151st Rheola Charity Carnival. Bridgewater’s Janey Cluton and Tyler Estrada had their heads shaved in a Royal Children’s Hospital fundriaser while Boort District School staged its first writers’ festival. The Newbridge farm under investigation by Agriculture Victoria was bought after auction by Coliban Water to become a biosolids facility. Dalip Chawla retired, selling his Boort supermarket. Tennis star Jelena Dokic was speaker when the women’s health dinner returned.
RESIDENTS were left with a 5km detour when the Chamberlains Road bridge was suddenly closed. Loddon Shire’s bid for flood repair funding was knocked back by the State Government and would later be funded by council. Sporting groups in Pyramid Hill and Boort raised funds for cancer as Rowan Broad continued to receive treatement in Melbourne. State Budget included announcement of a pedestrian crossing for Wedderburn while Bridgewater residents ramped up calls for action as corella numbers increased, damaging Loddon River trees. Falcon Metals reported interest in Mysia mineral sands.
HAY worth $500,000 destined for the export market was lost in a Campbells Forest fire. After 40 years, Peter Moore retired and sold his Inglewood IGA supermarket. Gladfield legend Jack Harrison turned 100 while Peter McClelland and Greg Keegan were presented with bravery medals for their assistance at a fatal road accident near Moliagul. Murray Keller delivered his last letters and parcels and Inglewood Primary School adopted a new logo and motto - be kind, work hard, grow together. Anti-duck hunting activists claimed damage at Lake Boort and assault at nearby lake.
BROOKE Street Inglewood was the toast of a new store when Carlie Fashions and Accessories relocated to the town. Cobram Estate reported 10 million litres of oil produced from the olive harvest at Boort. Wedderburn College celebrated its 25th anniversary and Boort District School students were part of the national pushup challenge. The Federal Government moved to start Murray Darling Basin water buybacks but two then-Loddon councillors did not support continued opposition to the plan. Terrick West Merinos had the top price $25,000 ram at national show sale, Kedleston Park top commercial fleece.
POLICE and Inglewood Football Netball Club combined to promote road safety message to youngsters. Ian Bartels received Pyramid Hill Lions Club citizen of the year award, the last before the club was to disband, and Boort District Health nurse Michelle Holland received national aged care award. Loddon singing sensation Elias Lanyon hit national television as a contestant on The Voice while works at Inglewood Town Hall meant a touring opera had to find another venue. Inglewood’s op-shop moved to new premises in the old Royal Hotel. End of year closure of St Patrick’s Primary School Pyramid Hill set.
HISTORY was lost when the 1866 Jennings Store in Inglewood’s Brooke Street went up in flames. The dramatic fire closed the Calder Highway and the facade had to be demolished but owner David Oakley remained stoic and continues to sell chickens from the property. Wind turbine companies started knocking on the doors of farmers in northern Loddon districts. A year after raising concerns, Eddington residents welcomed 80kmh speed limits on bend. Boort Amity Club held its 1000th meeting and Hay Australia expanded storage at Bridgewater plant by a third. Volunteer firies receive national emergency medals.
SPIDERMAN writer Zeb Wells made a visit to Jarklin to the delight of comic fans. Mologa residents acted quickly to replace a stolen brass plaque detailing the district’s history. Boort’s Gaye Sim again crowned state crochet champion at Royal Melbourne Show while the 60s crew held a rock and roll reunion in Dingee and ambulance officer David Booth marked more than 40 years caring for people. Anger when a national award went to SES for rescuing man in the summer storm floods at Wedderburn, snubbing local heroesintervention by the federal minister saw “recognition” of locals on website.
YANDO talked tin halls and country towns while Loddon Shire Council election results were being declared - voters opted to dump first-term councillors Wendy Murphy (Inglewood Ward) and Linda Jungwirth (Tarnagulla) with Mrs Murphy taking a swipe at former colleagues and the media in a post-poll statement. Dan Straub was elected shire mayor. Stages two and three of the Bridgewater Rise housing estate released for sale and Wheelhouse industrial estate land tipped to be ready for sale early 2025. Local bank sponsorship means pool season tickets half-price.
THE run of Christmas celebrations started in Loddon communities and Boort District Health collected a state award for regional service. VNI West criticism continued in the month after the preferred corridor, including Loddon land, was announced. Lex Johnstone ready for retirement after five years as Inglewood Primary School principal while Geoff Thomas was awarded life membership of Dingee Bush Nursing Centre and Kamarooka North farmer Des O’Donoghue topped the Bendigo sheep and lamb market. Wedderburn’s William Bone wins National Youth Deaf award and local ambos recognised for service.
SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS OF STORIES IN YOUR LOCAL LODDON HERALD
Accomplishments, vision strengths of community
AS ANOTHER year draws to a close, it’s hard to believe how quickly the past 12 months have flown by.
As we prepare to wind down and enjoy a well-deserved Christmas break, we take a moment to reflect on the year that was and think about the year ahead.
We thank our hardworking farming community, which continues to produce the food we put on our tables.
Their efforts also contribute significantly to the local economy through great employment opportunities and world class produce.
Despite the challenges of a prolonged grain harvest caused by wet weather, their persistence has prevailed and the majority of the crop should be in before Christmas.
We take this time to acknowledge and thank our dedicated community groups and the individuals who contribute to making Loddon Shire such a wonderful place to live and work.
I have often said we are a ‘community of communities’ and we are all invested as one. Celebrating our togetherness is important and
by Cr DAN STRAub
we have not been disappointed. It is pleasing to see the richness of community celebrations taking place across the shire, making the most of their parks, recreation reserves, multi-use facilities and of course the wonderful hospitality venues throughout.
I want to make a special mention to all our local businessespubs, cafés, bakeries, retail stores and supermarkets.
This is undoubtedly a very busy and important time of year for you, as families, friends, workplaces all come together to celebrate the festive season.
As we embark on a new council term, I would like to welcome our new councillors - David Weaver, Nick Angelo and Miki Wilson. I’d also like to welcome returning councillor Gavan Holt.
I am very honoured and privileged to be taking on the mayoral role in the first year of this new council term. I thank my fellow councillors and the community for all your support.
Reflecting on the year, we realise we have accomplished
several significant milestones.
These include the opening of the Donaldson Park Complex, Pyramid Hill Streetscape project, the announcement of Loddon’s first early learning years and child care centre, extensive investment in our road network and the many services provided by council daily.
There was also the development of significant documents, including the economic development strategy, draft recreation, open space and aquatic strategy, social infrastructure strategy and the 2024 priorities document.
I’d like to make mention of the adoption of another significant council document - Loddon Shire’s 2023-2024 Annual Report. This document provides a detailed update on how we are performing while capturing some of the highlights for the financial year. It also features some overall facts and figures from the year like, 14,928 visits to swimming pools to mention but one.
You can read the annual report on Council’s website.
Looking ahead in our new council term, early next year, we will be turning our attention
to the development of our new community vision and council plan.
The new council plan will guide council’s priorities for the next four years and will be developed through feedback from you, the community.
We look forward to working with you to help shape the future direction of our shire.
In closing, again best wishes and thank you to those harvesting, working hard in hospitality venues, those of us in retail shops, our healthcare providers, our first responders and the wider community.
As the year ends, we take this time to reflect on the year that has been. May everyone have a joyous time celebrating the Christmas festive season with friends and family.
On behalf of council, I wish all our residents and businesses a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
I look forward to continuing to work with our community in for another successful and vibrant 2025.
CrDanStraubisLoddonShire Mayor
Greatest gift at the heart of joyous giving
by Ps PATRICK HOuGHTON
WILL you be having a Merry Christmas this year? Maybe you’re thinking, ‘Yes, I get to see family.’ Or, ‘No, I have to see family.’
Perhaps your reaction is, ‘Yes, I’m gonna get so many presents.’ Or, ‘No, I don’t know what to get people this year.’
Or maybe, ‘Yes, we’re gonna have so much food.’ Or, ‘No, I have so much cooking to do.’
Wherever you’re at, might I suggest that a truly Merry Christmas can be found in the original Christmas story? Yes, the one with the baby who was born in a manger, Jesus.
In perhaps the Bible’s most famous verse, John 3:16, we hear the joyful news of what Christmas is all about. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Maybe you’ve wondered before what’s so special about a baby who was born 2000 years ago. It was so long ago and yet
buSHy TALES
by IAN jONES
everyone’s celebrating his birthday. It’s because Jesus was a gift from God, our loving Creator. God “gave his only Son,” not just to Mary and Joseph, but to the whole world.
I’m sure we can all tell the difference between thoughtful and lazy Christmas presents, as well as gifts that are given out of love and those given out of obligation. Well, what do you make of
T HE fever of the festive season is well and truly here. The barbecues have started, the parties bringing joy and frivolity at every minute and hour. Bradley of Boort was quick to say the other day that all this fun started in Yando. “We had the first community Christmas gathering and everyone’s been trying to cash in since,” he said the early harvest arrival of Santa.
IT’S the time of the year when some start auditioning for the role of honorary Santa. Bumped into The Oracle in downtown Bridgewater the other day. He reckon’s the festive feasting will have him right for next year.
God’s gift? He gave us his very best. He gave us his Son whom he dearly loves.
This is exhilarating. God cares about his world! He loves us! And not just with well-wishes and good vibes. He loves us so much he’s sent us his very heart.
And there’s more. Along with the gift of Jesus comes the gift of never-ending life.
God gave Jesus so “that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” And that, by the way, doesn’t mean life forever as we know it, in a world full of tragedies and injustices, hobbling around in deteriorating bodies.
God has better things ahead for those who receive this gift – a new world, healed bodies, and life forever with our Maker, the one who completes us.
When you stop to think about it, what a joy it would be to have that to look forward to!
And so with that in mind, I wish you a Merry Christmas.
*PatrickHoughtonisthe pastoratBoortBaptistChurch
yOuR ONLINE WORDS
SERVICE AWARDS FOR WEDDERBURN COMMUNITY
AMBULANCE OFFICERS
Beth Haslem Farnsworth wrote: Well deserving. Thank you for your caring hearts to help save lives here in the country community and remote parts as well. We are very blessed to have you. Pam Jackson wrote: Congratulations Bruce Dede and Glen. We are lucky to have these amazing people in our community.
T HERE was also a little bit of banter about King Richard and the Queen Consort over Calivil way. A few now reckon the consort’s Christmas present will be a title elevation to the rank of Dairy Queen. That would have her leading the way in the dairy.
WHILE sans the girth, Cats’ fan Alistair has the beard. Only problem for him helping Santa at the moment is a should operation that has him even sleeping in a sling for a few months. He’s probably wishing for a gift that has Geelong doing better than a preliminary final next season.
F INALLY, from Over the Fence, have a Merry Christmas ... and we can’t wait for your funny yarns this Christas to share in the New Year.
CARLY ISAAC - LODDON HERALD SPORTS STAR OF THE YEAR
Maree Stringer wrote: Congratulations Carly! You are an absolute legend and so deserve this award. You are an inspiration to the younger generation and a wonderful role model. Lois Whykes wrote: Congratulations Carly, very well deserved. Joan Earl wrote: Congratulations Carly. You’re a superstar.
Alex Holt wrote: An absolutely deserving super star!
Feds push local media packages
COUNTRY Press Australia has welcomed Federal government plans to establish the News Bargaining Incentive to ensure large digital platforms contribute to the sustainability of news media in Australia.
The News Bargaining Incentive is designed to encourage digital platforms to enter into or renew commercial deals with news publishers and follows an announcement by Meta in March that it would not renew agreements with publishers, including Country Press Australia member mastheads, of which the Loddon Herald is a member.
Under the incentive, search and social media companies that failed to reach agreements with publishers would be forced to pay a charge instead, with 100 per cent of those funds collected then distributed to eligible publishers. The value of any agreements reached would be offset against the tax payable by the companies.
Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer said the News Bargaining Incentive would help deliver important financial support and recognition to our member publishers for the valuable work they do across the regional, rural and outer-suburban landscape.
“In the overwhelming majority of communities in regional, rural and outersuburban Australia where our members operate, they are the only provider of hyper-local place based public interest journalism to those communities.
“And as such, the local paper’s role as an important piece of democratic infrastructure cannot be overstated.”
He said last week’s announcement of the News Bargaining Incentive was good
Andrew Schreyer
news for publishers who otherwise faced ongoing challenges in the wake of Meta’s previous decision to not renew agreements.
“Local papers command an overwhelming share of voice across the broader regional, rural and outer-suburban landscape and it’s pleasing to see the increased recognition from government of the role our papers play in the communities they serve.”
The Government says the incentive will apply to large digital platforms operating significant social media or search services irrespective of whether or not they carry news.
Mr Schreyer thanked the government, especially ministers Rowland and Jones, for this latest intervention and show of support for regional, rural and local publishers and said Country Press Australia looked forward to playing a role in the
important consultation process that is to come.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to our members and to the communities they serve.”
The Government will consult stakeholders on the final design of the scheme. A public consultation paper is expected to be released in early 2025, and the incentive will take effect from January 1.
Meanwhile, Country Press Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s subsequent announcement of a package to better sustain and support public interest journalism in the years ahead as part of the News Media Assistance Program (News MAP).
Mr Schreyer said the Government’s announcement comes at a vital time for the industry. Regional and local newspapers play a vital role in their communities which cannot be replicated through other forms of media and this significant announcement, following various enquiries and a stringent government process is a welcome relief.
“This is another important plank in the Federal Government’s efforts to support public interest journalism and follows the unveiling of the $15 million News Media Relief Program, last week’s announcement of the News Bargaining Incentive, as well as $10.5 million for ACMA’s Media Diversity Measurement Framework.”
The package includes $116.7 million to support news production and journalism through sustainability funding to news media outlets over three years from July 1, 2025, as well as grants for capacity building and transformational projects to
help make news media outlets more sustainable in the future.
Mr Schreyer said Country Press Australia was keen to learn more about how the funding would be provided, so that publishers could make informed decisions about their businesses with the most upto-date information.
“We are pleased to see other stakeholders such as the Australian Associated Press and the community and First Nations broadcasting sectors gain muchneeded funding,” he said.
“We understand the Government might not be able to provide every detail of this important funding package as quickly as would like, but we need greater clarity, and sooner, for our publishers.
“Whilst we greatly appreciate the overall announcement, we are disappointed that the package includes just $3 million of advertising.
“We believe advertising is the single best way to provide support to the newspaper industry and the $3 million falls well short of doing that. This merely maintains the status quo and reflects a situation that contributes to the ongoing crisis in the news industry.”
Mr Schreyer said this latest announcement capped a period of significant and much appreciated investment by the Federal Government into fostering public interest journalism that would lay for the foundations for further transformation of the industry. “The Federal Government has recognised local media as critical to the health of our democracy, to social cohesion and to informing regional and rural communities, and we greatly appreciate their support.”
Stocking Stumpers
QUICK CROSSWORD
DOWN
1 Columns (7)
2 Pleated wind instrument (9)
3 Shirt of chainmail (7)
4 Sifting implement (5)
5 Feel for, identify with (9)
6 Pass sentence on (7)
7 Angry (5)
8 Accosted with kind wishes (7)
14 Disinclined (9)
16 Made new copies of a book (9)
17 Sewage cistern (7)
18 Egg-cooking implement (7)
20 Dancewear (7)
21 Expert in the interpretation of religious texts (7)
23 Essential (5)
25 Destroyed (5)
ACROSS
1 Steal (5)
4 Outlining (9)
9 Educational talk to an audience (7)
10 Thin, flat cake of batter (7)
11 Consensus (9)
12 Expel, throw out (5)
13 Scornful laugh (7)
15 Wilfully disregarded (7)
17 Distrusting (7)
19 Lunar phenomenon (7)
22 Rescued (5)
24 Caustic (9)
26 Kneecap (7)
27 City in Washington State (7)
28 Put up with (9)
29 Sidestep (5)
QUIZ
1. What is the study of geomorphology?
2. How many Academy Awards did Katharine Hepburn (pictured) win for Best Actress?
3. Which member of Mötley Crüe has children named Gunner, Storm and Decker?
4. True or false: monarch butterflies are native to Australia?
5. What is the capital of Laos?
6. In music theory how many notes are there in a diatonic scale?
7. The Oki Islands lie off the coast of which country?
8. Which author won the 2009 Man Booker Prize for Fiction for Wolf Hall?
9. Name the heritage railway in the Dandenong Ranges in Melbourne.
10. Which actor plays the character Jimmy McNulty in the television series The Wire?
9-LETTER
O I F N RE B D
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.
Today’s Focus:
13 words: Good
20 words: Very good 27 words: Excellent
EDGEWORD CROSS MATHS
Stocking Stumpers
GIANT CROSSWORD
1 Thickset (6) 3 Theoretical (8)
Lessened (7)
18 Globetrotter (9) 21 Amaze (8)
DOWN
2 Burn a body (7)
3 Examiner of accounts (7)
4 Huge statues (7)
5 Blush (5)
6 Limbless amphibian (9)
7 Bunny (6)
8 Talking bird (6)
10 Escargot (5)
11 Spotted feline (7)
12 Opposite of day (5)
14 Luggage (7)
19 Regretted (4)
20 Verge (4)
22 Type of spouse (pl) (8)
25 Genuine (4)
26 Contraction of ‘is not’ (4)
28 Blatant (5)
40 Studied (11)
43 Mischievous (6)
44 Sing to; woo (8)
47 Agricultural land (4)
48 Forces out (6)
51 Communal toilet (7)
54 US marsupial (7)
56 Hawaiian capital (8)
57 Slumbering (6)
58 Type of clover (8)
61 Surpass (9)
65 Travel document (8)
67 Charm (8)
68 Marine mammal (7)
69 Roughly (8)
70 Choose (6)
71 Creeping (7)
72 Trap, catch (7)
73 Alarmed (8)
74 Famous gorgon (6)
CODEWORD
29 Tests (5)
31 Debris (6)
32 Robbed (6)
36 Warm-blooded vertebrate (6)
37 Less difficult (6)
38 Prison breakers (8)
41 Juliet’s lover (5)
42 Requires (5)
45 Ancient structure (4)
46 Void (4)
49 Thunder god (4)
50 Plot (4)
52 Prized items (9)
53 Collapse inwards (7)
55 Disheveled (7)
57 Facet (6)
59 Painters, e.g. (7)
60 Oily fruit (5)
61 Twisted (7)
62 Viper (5)
63 Defiled (7)
64 Small rowboat (6)
66 Herb (5)
SUDOKU
SOLUTIONS
DAY
MIXED FOURS
Calivil Bowling Green
Wednesday 1st January 2025
12.30pm start - 3 games of 10 games
Entries to:
Lindsay Gronow 0429 957 427 calivilbowls@gmail.com by Sunday 29th December
Cost $20 includes a ernoon tea
If you can stay, we would love you to join us for a meal a er the game
Proudly supported by
Inglewood-Bridgewater Sub Branch MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
2025 annual membership fees are now due.
Service Members $10.00
Affiliate Members $10.00
Social Members $10:00
For your card to remain current please renew your membership by the 27/12/2024. On time payment will qualify entrance into the RSL Vic car raffle.
Memberships can be renewed by contacting Stephen Gartside at the Inglewood Emporium.
MEETING s
Loddon Shire
Christmas closure
Christmas O ce Closure
Loddon Shire Council would like to wish our community a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please see below our service hours during the Christmas and New Year holiday period.
Council o ce: The Council o ce in
Wedderburn will be closed from 12:00pm Tuesday 24 December 2024 and will reopen at 8:15am on Thursday 2 January 2025.
Kerbside collections and waste facilities:
Kerbside collections scheduled for Christmas Day (Wednesday 25 December 2024) will instead take place on Saturday 28 December 2024. Kerbside collections scheduled for New Years Day (Wednesday 1 January 2025) will instead take place on Saturday 4 January 2025. All other
collections will continue as normal. All waste facilities across the Shire will be closed on Public Holidays.
Visitor Information Centre:
The Loddon Visitor Information Centre will be closed on Christmas Day, Wednesday 25 December 2024 but is otherwise open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and from 10am to 2pm on public holidays.
For enquiries phone (03) 5494 3489 or email loddonvisitorinformation@loddon.vic.gov.au
For a full list of operating hours over the Christmas and New Year period visit Council’s website www.loddon.vic.gov.au and click on Public Notices.
Pyramid Hill Senior Citizens
Pyramid Hill Senior Citizens have not been active in recent times. A new committee has been elected and will welcome anyone interested in becoming a member
The Club has activities planned from 1pm on the second Friday of each month in the supper room at the Memorial Hall. On the fourth Friday of each month, a light meal will be available costing $10 -00. Again in the supper room at the Memorial Hall. You are welcome to pop in even if you would prefer just a cup of tea/coffee and a chat. There is no pressure to participate in the available activities. Membership fee is $5-00 annually.
The above will be in place until the Club moves to the new building currently being constructed in McKay St. Terry Wood email tp.wood@bigpond.com Ph 0429843479
CLEARING SALE
Farm Machinery, Hay equipment, Vehicles Friday 17th January 2025 @ 10am Sharp on site
Further particulars / Inspections: James Nevins: 0407 302 900 www.fpnevins.com.au Calivil Bowling Club
TRACTORS 1999 Case MX240 Tractor (8300hrs), 2004 “Same” Silver 100.4 tractor, 1984 “Fiat” 446 tractor HAY MACHINERY “JD” 956 mower conditioner, NHBB 9080 Baler (4x3x8 – 19786 bales), NHBB 960 Baler (4x3x8 55000 bales), “MF” RK3877 Twin Rotor Rake, “Sitrix” 9-wheel inline rake “NH” Super 56 Rolarbar hay rake, “NH” 471 bale loader, Big Bale twine – 32 balls VEHICLES & BIKES 1970 “Toyota” Land Cruiser” (Ute unreg), 1983 UD tray truck (386500 km 22’ x 8’2) 2 x sheep stock crate, truck grain bin, “Gorski 3 Axle dog trailer with grain top/ 1940’s Chev Lend Lease truck WUB Hoist & grain bin, “Kawaski” Ag 175 motorbike, “Honda” 90 Motorbike
MACHINERY “JD” 610 38’ Air seeder 42 tyne W “JD” 777 Air cart “shearer” 28’ Cultivator & Harrows, “Shearer” 170 29 tyne scarifier, “INT” 6-2 20 run combine & SSB “Goldacres” 21m boom spray w 3000l tank, “Lely” Centreline spreader (1 tonne), 1200L fuel trailer w elec pump, Jacki bin – 1 tonne, “Kubota” 2m Flail slasher, 4.6m Malway mulcher (needs repairs) Grain feed out trailer, 2m Golden scoop (copy), 9 tyne Agroplough (needs repair), FEL stick rake, “Colac” windmill w Gal stand, “Hardi” boom spray 400L, 2 x Ute crates
GRAIN EQUIPMENT “Westfield” MK 100 – 61 Swingaway PTO Auger, “Mobilco” 30’ x 8” Auger w 13hp motor, 12’ pencil auger w “Kohler” motor, “Hannaford” seed cleaner
TOOLS & SUNDRIES “Mascot” lathe 4 ft bed, drill press (antique), “Goldacres” tray mate spot sprayer 120L,spot sprayer trailer TT saw bench w Robin Motor Rover R21ls log spliter, ATV trailer w crate Ascot McKay gates
SHEEP/SHEARING EQUIPMENT “TPW” Slimline hyd wool press, 2 x “Sunbeam” super pro shearing plants, “Sunbeam” twin box wool press, round woold table, “Thornton” 24 panel 2 race port sheep yards, 4 Unit lamb marking cradle, foot bath, small load ramp suite trailer, “Cowra” lick sheep feeder SUNDRIES Assorted tools, household items too numerous to particularise
TERMS Cash, Cheque, EFTPOS on day of sale. GST applies, light luncheon available Number system operating, ID required
DIRECTIONS From the North 6km south of East Loddon P/12 college on Pyramid Yarraberb Road turn left into Tandarra-Serpentine Road 1.5km
Inspection
SPORT | T20 CUP
Wedderburn fieldsman Matt Lockhart, in the red and black cap, celebrates his catch which dismissed Kingower captain Jayden Leach (right) for 12. It was the first of only two wickets taken by the Band as Kingower took home the inaugural Loddon Herald Cup for the Upper Loddon T20 competition. LH PHOTOS
The Kingower camp, sensibly enjoying the shade at Wedderburn’s Market Square
Wedderburn’s Steve Giorlando sits with spectators while association president John Daldy watches on.
Blake Pickles, who finished 17 not out off 15 balls for the winners, plays a drive off Finn Turnbull
Three new faces on LV board
NEW blood has been injected into the Loddon Valley Football Netball League board.
Experienced Inglewood netball administrator Shasta Maher, former Bridgewater junior coach Wayne Naughton and umpire and former junior interleague coach Glenn Catto were elected at the league’s annual meeting.
They filled two previous vacancies and the spot left by retiring chairman Simon Tuohey who had completed the maximum three three-year terms.
One of the trio’s first decisions will be to elect a new chairman when the board holds its first meeting of 2025.
Meanwhile, the league last Thursday afternoon released the 2025 season draw with the first round one April 5.
Pyramid Hill won’t have to wait long to seek revenge on Marong for its 2024 Loddon Valley grand final loss, with the Bulldogs and Panthers set to meet in round two at Malone Park.
Marong’s bid for a fourth con-
secutive flag will begin with a visit to Inglewood on April 5 under new joint coaches.
Pyramid Hill will travel to Newbridge in the opening round, while 2024 finalists Bridgewater and Bears Lagoon Serpentine will also meet.
Calivil will be at home to Maiden Gully as both teams look to climb the ladder in 2025.
Last season’s wooden spooners Mitiamo, under new playing coach Luke Lougoon, have the first-round bye before facing Maiden Gully in round two.
All teams will have a week off early in the season, with a leaguewide bye for the Easter long weekend on April 19.
Reconciliation Round will be played on May 24 while games have been scheduled for the King’s Birthday weekend in June.
Finals begin on August 16 and 17 with the grand final on September 6.
Venues for the finals will be determined by the board later next year.
Loddon Valley League draw 2025
Round 1 April 5
Calivil v Maiden Gully
Inglewood v Marong
Bridgewater v BL Serpentine
Newbridge v Pyramid Hill
Mitiamo Bye
Round 2 April 12
Maiden Gully v Bridgewater
Marong v Pyramid Hill
BL Serpentine v Inglewood
Mitiamo v Calivil
Newbridge Bye
April 19 - Bye for Easter
Round 3 April 26
Inglewood v Bridgewater
Maiden Gully v Newbridge
Calivil v Marong
Pyramid Hill v Mitiamo
BL Serpentine Bye
Round 4 May 3
Bridgewater v Marong
Mitiamo v Maiden Gully
Newbridge v Inglewood
BL Serpentine v Pyramid Hill
Calivil Bye
Round 5 May 10
Calivil v Newbridge
Marong v BL Serpentine
Pyramid Hill v Bridgewater
Inglewood v Mitiamo
Maiden Gully Bye
Round 6 May 17
Bridgewater v Calivil
Pyramid Hill v Inglewood
Maiden Gully v BL Serpentine
Mitiamo v Newbridge Marong Bye
Round 7 May 24
BL Serpentine v Mitiamo
Marong v Maiden Gully
Newbridge v Bridgewater
Calivil v Inglewood
Pyramid Hill Bye
Sharp shooter named monthly star
NOVEMBER’S Loddon Herald Sports Star is Boort basketballer Luke Boyd.
A member of the winning team in the Boort Basketball Association’s summer mixed competition, the Kings. Luke led the team to the grand final with his spectacular goals and earned them the win.
With Luke scoring 40 of the 44 points in the Grand Final against the Taipans, the Kings were able to defeat them by 11 points.
Across the 10 rounds of the season Luke scored 248 points total, with his grand final performance topping his previous high score of 39 points in one game.
The Kings held onto their top spot on the ladder throughout the season with six wins and two losses, before winning both the semi final and the grand final to round out the competition as kings of the court.
Luke is now in the running for the 20242025 Sports Star award.
Panthers bring back premiership pair
TWO FORMER premiership players have rejoined Marong as the Panthers load up for an assault on four Loddon Valley football flags in a row.
Key defender Nathan Walsh, who played in the 2022 and 2023 senior premierships, returns after missing a year while study-
ing for a master’s degree. Patrick Gretgrix played in Marong’s 2022 and 2023 reserves premierships before departing for Harcourt in the Maryborough Castlemaine District league last season, where his team made the preliminary final. Gretgrix won the club’s Herrick Award in 2023.
Round 8 May 31
Pyramid Hill v Calivil Mitiamo
LODDON VALLEY
7-5. N Marlow T Twigg lost to Raywood 6-7.
Yarrawalla 0-60 lost tO Mincha West 5-94
Mens: H Emmerson V Herrick lost to E Pratt D Stewart 3-7. H Emmerson T Broad lost to E Prout P Gargan 1-7. T Stevens O Emmerson lost to R Wagner J Pepperell 5-7. V Herrick T Stevens lost to D Stewart R Wagner 3-7. T Broad O Emmerson lost to P Gargan J Pepperell 0-7.
Ladies: C Emmerson C Broad d T Stewart C Mann 7-2. C Emmerson K Broad lost to T Stewart T Wagner 5-7. S Gale G Scott lost to C Pickles M Stewart 2-7. C Broad S Gale lost to C Mann C Pickles 6-7. K Broad G Scott d T Wagner M Stewart 7-6.
Mixed: V Herrick C Emmerson d E Prout T Stewart 7-4. H Emmerson C Broad d D Stewart C Mann 7-5. T Broad K Broad lost to P Gorgan T Wagner 4-7. T Stevens S Gale lost to R Wagner C Pickles 3-7. O Emmerson G Scott lost to J Pepperell M Stewart 0-7. Lake Meran forfeited to Dingee Ladder Mincha West 3.61 Calivil 3.31
INGLEWOOD
Powlett d Korong Vale 16.5-7.5 Mens: B Isaac T Johns d J Turnbull B Keller 8-5. T Johns M Higgs d B Keller J Keller 8-3. B Isaac M Higgs d J Turnbull J Keller 8-1. M Livingston B Lock lost to K Walton B McDonald 4-8. M Livingstone B Lock d K Walton B McDonald 8-5.
MARONG
Newbridge 8-70 lost to Wilsons Reef 10-74
Ladies: E Jenkyn A Jenkyn d J Fitzgibbon E Molenaar 6-1. E Jenkyn Partner d J Fitzgibbon C McKinstry 6-2. A Jenkyn Partner d E Molenaar C McKinstry 6-0. T Higgs D Bouwmeaster lost to J Taylor H Russell 4-6. T Higgs N Jenkyn d J Taylor F Lucas 6-4. D Bouwmeaster N Jenkyn lost to H Russell F Lucas 4-6. Mens: D Stewart Partner lost to S Taylor A Evans 2-6. D Stewart A Broom lost to S Taylor S Taylor 1-6. A Broom Partner d A Evans S Taylor 6-2. D Jenkyn S Wal-
Ladies: J Matthews B Wilson d S Keller R Turnbull 8-1. B Wilson A Higgs d R Turnbull A Gibson 8-5. J Matthews A Higgs d S Keller A Gibson 8-1. C Gilmore K Dean d S Keller S Simons 8-6. C Gilmore S Maher lost to S Keller K Walton 5-8. Mixed: B Isaac J Matthews d J Turnbull A Gibson 8-1. T Johns B Wilson lost to B Keller B Turnbull 5-8. M Higgs A Higgs lost to J Keller S Keller 5-8. M Livingstone C Gilmore d K Walton S Simons 8-1.B Lock K Dean lost to B McDonald S Keller 2-8. Fentons Creek forfeited to Wedderburn Junction
lace lost to J Wilkinson B Taylor 2-6. D Jenkyn A Broom lost to J Wilkinson B Stewart 2-6. S Wallace A Broom lost to B Taylor B Stewart 1-6.
Mixed: E Jenkyn A Broom d J Fitzgibbon S Taylor 6-1. A Jenkyn D Stewart d C McKinstry A Evans 6-1. Newbridge d B Taylor J Taylor 6-3. D Bouwmeaster D Jenkyn lost to E Molenaar J Wilkinson 1-6. N Jenkyn S Wallace lost to H Russell S Taylor 1-6. T Higgs A Broom lost to F Lucas B Stewart 4-6. Woodstock 1-28 lost to Lockwood 17-107
Ladies: F Curnow N Earl lost to D Wells T Miller 1-6. F Curnow J Leversha lost to D Wells A Wells 5-6. N Earl J Leversha lost to T Miller A Wells 2-6. A AndrewsStone E Ruthledge lost to R Coutts C Shevlin 0-6. A Andrews-Stone H Stone d R Coutts H Symes 6-5. E Ruthledge H Stone lost to C Shevlin H Symes 1-6. Mens: G Leach D Tolly lost to L Nixon A Doyle 0-6. G Leach N Punton lost to
PYRAMID Hill Cafe has closed out its year in the Kerang Basketball Association with a nail-biting loss to Murrabit Magic.
A win would have seen Pyramid Hill rise from the bottom of the ladder and overtake the Magic, but the 51-49 defeat sees the Cafe team holding up the rest of the competition as it takes its Christmas-New Year break.
Jayson de Leon (17) and Prince Dizon
(16) were the top scorers for Pyramid Hill, which led by three points early in the second half but could not hold on for a muchneeded win.
SRP Boort fell to a 53-33 loss to Ballers, with the competition’s top scorer, Jan Dave Gumilao, held to just eight points, including two three-point shots.
Giul Christian Ocaya scored 14 points for Boort, which sits fifth on the ladder.
Purple patch premiership pouncers
THE SECOND season of Pyramid Hill Tuesday night mixed netball has ended with a big win for the Purple team, anchored by the Longstaff family.
Purple won the grand final 30-15 against the Pink team after dominating the season. Paul Longstaff and his children Tahlia and Will were key players for the winners.
Kelly Hogan, Cecily Farr, Ellesha Fergusson, Ava Tracey and Greg Quinn made
up the rest of the second season premiereship side.
Organiser Leanne Gibson says the season was a great success, with seven teams fighting for the title.
Another competition is planned for February, and while Gibson is wary of the likely heat reducing the number of players, she is confident there will be sufficient registrations to set up another league
Raywood’s Matt Collins and Penny Cockerell (Serpentine) in action during Saturday’s clash. LH PHOTO
Close call in cleansweep
THE grudge match against Calivil in Bendigo Division 4 went Dingee’s way, with all four rinks winning narrowly on Saturday.
The final score was 81 shots (18 points) to 71 shots (0 points), with the points tally not truly reflective of such a close contest.
One rink (Bradley Duncan, Rodney Ellis, Lewis Hocking and Bruce Lawry) won by five shots, but the other games were won by two, one and two shots.
Dingee’s win was against the odds, with the home side having won just once this season before Saturday.
The result sees Calivil in third place on the ladder, with Dingee rising to fifth and climbing ahead of Marong.
Hot weather resulted in the cancellation of Monday’s matches in all competitions.
BRIDGEWATER
For the first time this season both of Bridgewater’s sides played together at home, with the rare sight of full rinks.
In an impressive result, the Division 5 team played the top side in the Bendigo Playing Area, Campbells Creek, and ended with a draw.
It was a very tight tussle all
day, with all rinks being close contests.
The only winning rink was Geoff Papworth, Glenn Catto, Tyler Estrada and Glenn Mangan, who prevailed 19-15. Allan Harrison’s and John Fagan’s rinks both salvaged draws in their respective rinks, with the overall score being all tied up with 64 shots each.
The Division 2 Goldfields side played the Maryborough Highlands Society team and fell to a ninth defeat from 11 matches, losing 35 shots (0 points) to 101 shots (16 points). Ron Brown’s rink was the best performed on the day, losing 11-26.
INGLEWOOD
The Division 5 team fought on strongly and ended the day with a draw against South Bendigo, and now sit in sixth place on the ladder, one place ahead on Bridgewater.
The best rink on the day was the team of Bill Concol, Doug Shay, Ian Chamberlain and Christine McEwan (skip) with a nineshot win.
The final result was Inglewood 80 shots (10 points) versus South Bendigo 80 shots (8 points). Division 1 had a disappointing 11-
Goldfields
Division 2 Bridgewater 35-0 lost to Maryborough Highland 101-16. Substitute, R. Simons, G. Mabon, R. Brown (s) lost to G. Prosser, F. Long, A. Pike, T. Wadeson (s) 1126. D. Payne, T. Ryan, D. Wilson, R. Smith (s) lost to G. Long, P. Stanley, C. Moss, F. Mifsud (s) 11-34. S. Miller, D. Grant, J. Hosking, C. Brooshooft (s) lost to A. Moss, C. Gothard, D. Prosser, T. Lacey (s) 13-41. Newstead White 44-0 lost to Newstead Blue 79-16. Talbot 54-2 lost to Maldon 6414. Carisbrook 92-14 d Avoca 44-2. Dunolly Green 49-4 lost to Dunolly Gold 62-12. Maryborough Golf bye. Ladder: Newstead Blue 162, Carisbrook 130, Maryborough Golf 127, Maldon 119, Talbot 119, Dunolly Gold 102, Maryborough Highland 92, Avoca 74, Dunolly Green 54, Newstead White 48, Bridgewater 29.
Bendigo
Saturday - Division 1: Inglewood 74-2 lost to North Bendigo 85-16. B. Smyth, D. Whitehead, L. Kelly, C. Kelly (s) lost to S. Fulton, S. Wilkinson, A. Hall, D. Franklin (s) 14-18. V. Tierney, J. Palfreyman, B. Jackson, G. Jackson (s) lost to J. Goodridge, J. Emerson, J. Rorke, M. Rowley (s) 12-25. B. McClymont, R. Stranger, D. Wilson, G. Wilson (s) d N. Zimmer, G. Gilmore, G. Lee, J. Hasty (s) 32-18. D. Vanston, S. Laird, D. Garrett, A. Harrison (s) lost to T. Lee, E. Staff, G. Godsell, D. Taig (s) 16-24. Castlemaine 91-18 d Bendigo East 55-0. Strathfieldsaye 89-14 d White Hills 73-4. Kangaroo Flat 96-16 d Golden Square 65-2. Ladder: Strathfieldsaye 121, Castlemaine 89, North Bendigo 88, Kangaroo Flat 64, Bendigo East 63, Inglewood 59, Golden Square 47, White Hills 45. Division 2 Serpentine 73-4 lost to Eaglehawk 81-14. K. Collins, F. Maher, R. Gladman, D. Walker (s) lost to B. Brackley, M. Taylor, P. Harrison, R. Evans (s) 14-27. M. Mathews, K. Canfield, S. Rudkins, B. Gladman (s) d J. Rohan, W. Naughton, R. Rowe, P. Francis (s) 26-19. L. Baber, W. Gladman, N. Tonkin, W. Hasty (s) d D. Bourke, D. Gibbs, F. Carbone, P. Hughes (s) 20-16. L. James, B. Tuohey, J. Stuart, B. Long (s) lost to R. Morgan, K. Hill, L. Morgan, R. McLean (s) 13-19. Bendigo East 59-2 lost to Harcourt 99-16. South Bendigo 64-4 lost to Strathfieldsaye 76-14. Bendigo 111-17 d Kangaroo Flat 60-1. Ladder: Strathfieldsaye 99, Bendigo 96, Eaglehawk 92, South Bendigo 91, Harcourt 91,
First-year pennant players with Dingee (from left) Brad Duncan, Kim Kavanagh and Rod Ellis. LH PHOTO
shot loss to North Bendigo, and now faces a must-win clash with White Hills, who are last on the ladder, in the first match after the Christmas break.
Best rink on the day was the team of Bruce McClymont, Robert Stranger, Denis Wilson and Geoff Wilson, with a 14-shot win. Inglewood is sixth on the lad-
der after the loss, 74 shots (2 points) to North Bendigo 85 shots (16 points), but just five points behind fourth-placed Kangaroo Flat.
Serpentine
In the last game before the Christmas break, Serpentine played Eaglehawk at home going down by eight shots in a close
PENNANT BOWLS RESULTS
Kangaroo Flat 52, Bendigo East 36, Serpentine 19. Division 4 Dingee 81-18 d Calivil 71-0. T. Kavanagh, N. Hocking, M. Grieves, F. Grieves (s) d G. Lourie, B. Meighan, W. Miles, A. Leech (s) 23-21. G. Clarke, P. Plant, B. West, L. Demeo (s) d N. Dennis, P. Hercus, A. Dennis, M. Dennis (s) 19-18. W. Wilson, K. Kavanagh, K. Pollock, L. Demeo (s) d R. Boyd, R. Lourie, M. Collett, G. Maxted (s) 19-17. B. Duncan, R. Ellis, L. Hocking, B. Lawry (s) d K. Richards, W. Lourie, G. Ray, L. Gronow (s) 20-15. Kangaroo Flat 72-4 lost to Bendigo 75-14. White Hills 106-16 d Marong 64-2. Harcourt 83-12 d Bendigo East 77-6. Ladder: White Hills 111, Bendigo 105, Calivil 92, Harcourt 81, Dingee 52, Marong 47, Bendigo East 46, Kangaroo Flat 42. Division 5 Inglewood 80-10 drew South Bendigo 80-8. K. Stewart, P. Kelly, P. Lyndon, H. Leech (s) lost to R. Challinor, S. Howe, B. Rosewall, J. McIntosh (s) 15-26. D. Shay, D. Roberts, J. McClymont, I. Bradley (s) d P. Griffin, S. Gill, B. Jennings, T. Watson (s) 2018. B. Scoble, B. Hopcott, W. Wilson, B. Taig (s) drew W. Grogan, J. Runnalls, J. Griffin, D. Campbell (s) 20-20. W. Concol, D. Shay, I. Chamberlain, C. McEwan (s) d K. Doolan, J. Smith, L. Fraser, E. Bullow (s) 25-16.
Bridgewater 64-9 drew Campbell’s Creek 64-9. P. Steenhuis, B. Catto, C. Payne, A. Harrison (s) drew C. Gallagher, B. Ellis, T. Woodman, J. McMennemin (s) 16-16. N. Saunders, P. Short, C. Wattie, J. Fagan (s) drew D. Stevens, I. Trevena, M. Rhodes, P. McKendry (s) 15-15. G. Papworth, G. Catto, T. Estrada, G. Mangan (s) d R. Harding, L. Dowler, J. Harding, B. Chester (s) 19-15. L. Catto, V. Wilson, R. Broadbent, C. Mangan (s) lost to K. Brooks, M. Holland, K. Odgers, I. Brooks (s) 14-18. Bendigo 78-16 d Golden Square 71-2. Woodybury 54-0 lost to Strathfieldsaye 112-18. Ladder: Campbell’s Creek 114, Strathfieldsaye 110, Bendigo 92, Golden Square 80, South Bendigo 58, Inglewood 57, Bridgewater 45, Woodbury 20. Monday - Play abandoned under heat policy.
Northern District
Saturday - Division 2 Kerang Golf 2 81-12 d Pyramid Hill 1 50-0. B. McLeish, J. Duckworth, M. Pors, L. Gray (s) d T. Stobaus, K. Wood, J. Mann, N. McGann (s) 34-12. A. Medson, C. Pay, S. McLeish, G. Beck (s) d R. Harris, I. Bartels, J. Leed, T. Dzufer (s) 28-20. M. Orr, K. Pay, S. Hutchinson, G. Hayes (s) d D. De-
maine, M. Noelker, R. Price, L. Mann (s) 19-18. Barham 4 46-3 lost to Cohuna 2 58-9. Kerang 3 51-2 lost to Cohuna Golf 3 84-10.
Ladder: Cohuna Golf 3 88, Kerang Golf 2 75, Cohuna 2 73, Pyramid Hill 1 61, Kerang 3 32, Barham 4 31. Division 3 Leitchville 2 71-12 d Pyramid Hill 2 43-0. P. Howden, A. Hipworth, L. Verhey, R. Cornwill (s) d G. Godward, J. Dingfelder, W. Boyd, J. Cauchi (s) 35-10. P. Nott, B. Mastin, G. Hawken, G. Brown (s) d M. Mahoney, A. Harris, C. Cauchi, A. Bennett (s) 17-16. D. Griffiths, C. Eagles, H. Crichton, G. Wilson (s) d R. Eckardt, D. Kaye, R. Fidler, A. Fidler (s) 19-17. Barham 5 85-10 d Gunny Golf 1 52-2. Wakool 2 56-8 d Cohuna 48-4. Kerang 4 66-20 d Kerang Golf 3 43-2. Ladder: Wakool 2 101, Kerang 4 73, Kerang Golf 3 69, Cohuna 3 68, Gunny Golf 1 59, Barham 5 50, Leitchville 2 35, Pyramid Hill 2 25. Midweek - Division 1 Pyramid Hill 1 52-0 lost to Kerang Golf 1 62-12. I. Bartels, J. Cauchi, R. Price, M. Noelker (s) lost to B. McLeish, S. McLeish, G. Hayes, J. McLeish (s) 19-21. R. Harris, M. Mahoney, J. Leed, M. Scott (s) lost to A. Medson, R. Laughlin, L. Ritchie, F. Ritchie (s) 15-18. H. Crichton, W. Boyd, K. Wood, R. Opie (s) lost to C. Hicks, C. Pay, I. Charles, L. Murray (s) 18-23. Barham 1 67-10 d Cohuna Golf 1 45-2. Kerang 1 50-3 lost to Cohuna 1 61-9.
Ladder: Cohuna 1 92, Kerang 1 71, Barham 1 64, Kerang Golf 1 53, Cohuna Colf 1 26, Pyramid Hill 1 18. Division 2 Barham 3 61-8 d Pyramid Hill 2 28-0. P. Waldron, G. Graeme, F. Graco, A. Larpent (s) d G. Godward, C. Cauchi, A. Bennett, L. Dingwall (s) 35-17. K. Lange, P. Slingo, M. Hallam, E. Schelbert (s) d substitute, D. Kaye, A. Harris, A. Fidler (s) 26-11. Barham 2 40-2 lost to Leitchville 1 426. Barham 4 29-0 lost to Cohuna 2 47-8.
Kerang 2 48-8 d Gunbower 1 32-0. Kerang Golf 2 41-8 d Cohuna Golf 2 33-0. Cohuna
3 bye. Ladder: Kerang Golf 2 52, Barham 3 44, Barham 2 44, Gunbower 1 43, Cohuna 3 43, Leitchville 1 40, Cohuna 2 39, Cohuna Golf 2 37, Barham 4 37, Kerang 2 30, Pyramid Hill 2 19. North Central
Division 1 Charlton 75-2 lost to Donald 8210. J. Cox, B. Laffin, D. Gretgrix, K. North (s) lost to I. McEwen, J. Howley, L. Morgan, N.
contest which could have gone either way when the last bowl was delivered.
Serp eventually went down 4 pts 73 shots to 14 pts 81 shots. Brian Gladman and his team got up to win 26 to 19 and rRck Hasty’s team won 20 to 16. Bowlers were dressed in bright colours for our charity day game ,
Hollis (s) 23-26. M. Hamley, W. Southwell, M. O’Brien, K. Willey (s) lost to W. Meyer, R. Gravestocks, L. Kelly, W. Hegarty (s) 26-36. L. Southwell, P. Watts, J. Headon, S. Perry (s) d E. Adams, T. Farrerm, R. Collins, H. Wingfield (s) 26-20. Wedderburn 96-12 d Boort 61-0. R. Tonkin, A. Roberts, B. Montebello, L. Witham (s) d K. Birt, D. Gibson, C. Newsome, S. Morris (s) 3420. M. Guelfo, B. Hargreaves, A. Caserta, D. Mason (s) d S. Nelson, K. Ritchie, J. Gibson, T. Moresi (s) 32-19. C. Mills, R. Guelfo, N. Holt, A. Jackson (s) d K. Walton, G. Hudson, W. Keenan, K. Depiazza (s) 30-22. St Arnaud Country 56-0 lost to St Arnaud 95-12. Wycheproof 60-2 lost to Donald Golf 81-10. Ladder: Wedderburn 92, Donald Golf 82, St Arnaud 80, Wycheproof 68, St Arnaud Country 57, Donald 51, Boort 38, Charlton 12. Division 2 Wedderburn 76-11 d Boort 58-1. S. Lear, N. White, A. Noordennen, I. Hall (s) d I. Allison, G. Charles, P. Waters, G. Smith (s) 23-17. H. Stephenson, S. Steel, J. Matthews, L. Standfield (s) drew L. Newsome, S. Polack, A. Gould, J. Earl (s) 21-21. R. Ashley, S. Standfield, R. Hall, J. Grant (s) d Y. Cashen, J. Hampson, S. Rollinson, A. Matley (s) 32-20. Charlton forfeited to Donald. Wycheproof 89-12 d Donald Golf 51-0. St Arnaud Country 70-12 d St Arnaud 55-0. Ladder: Wycheproof 92, Wedderburn 77, St Arnaud Country 69, St Arnaud 66, Donald Golf 64, Donald 45, Boort 40, Charlton 27. Midweek - Wycheproof 80-10 d Wedderburn 66-2. D. Nicholls, S. McKenna, L. Milburn, M. Nicholls (s) lost to L. Standfield, J. Murnane, R. Hall, A. Roberts (s) 20-23. C. Jones, V. Grant, H. Grylls, J. Grylls (s) d R. Little, S. Standfield, J. Matthews, L. Witham (s) 33-19. A. Coatsworth, L. Nicholls, A. Jones, D. Groves (s) d H. Stephenson, C. Mills, S. Steel, A. Jackson (s) 27-24. Donald 91-10 d Boort 56-2. J. Wood, M. McEwen, L. Kelly, B. Milne (s) d L. Carrall, Y. Cashen, D. Gibson, J. Gibson (s) 32-21. M. Quick, P. Kelly, E. Adams, H. Wingfield (s) d G. Charles, J. Maxted, P. Baker, W. Keenan (s) 45-14. P. Wyllie, D. Knight, M. Hollis, L. Morgan (s) lost to S. Nelson, P. Gould, J. Earl, T. Moresi (s) 14-21. St Arnaud Country 54-2 lost to Donald Golf 75-10. Charlton forfeited to St Arnaud. Ladder: Wycheproof 99, Donald Golf 80, Wedderburn 66, St Arnaud 59, Boort 56, Charlton 49, Donald 36, St Arnaud Country 35
Dingee’s Nicole Hocking
SURE AND STEADY
By GARY WALSH
IN A FORMAT better known for being fast and furious, Kingower played slow and steady cricket to win the inaugural Upper Loddon T20 final on Sunday.
Cool heads prevailed in hot weather, with Kingower taking until the second ball of the 20th over to pass Wedderburn Band’s desperately sub-par 65 all out and take home the Loddon Herald Cup.
In front of a big and enthusiastic crowd, the Band slumped to 2-5 in the third over before skipper Will ‘Buster’ Holt joined Isaac Holt in a 26-run partnership that looked likely to set Wedderburn up for a decent total.
However, after Isaac fell for 18 off 10 balls, including two fours
Holt’s dismissal for 16 from 14 deliveries left Wedderburn 4-44, but much worse was to come.
The final six wickets fell for only 21 runs, with Rowe (4-13 from 3.3 overs including a maiden) and Lachlan Dejong (3-13 from three overs) doing most of the damage.
The Band’s batting day was done in just the 14th over.
Anyone expecting fireworks from Kingower’s batsmen would have been disappointed, with the first five overs yielding just two scoring shots and four runs.
through until the 11th over, with just 25 runs on the board.
Kingower skipper Jayden Leach was well caught by Matt Lockhart from the bowling of Isaac Holt after making 12 from 28 balls, with only three scoring shots – a two, a six and a four – illustrating how Wedderburn was strangling the batting side.
Again, taking wickets was the issue.
Kingower lost its second wicket on 39 in the 14th over when Isaac Holt struck again, but that was the Band’s last success.
MORE T20 games are on the cards for Upper Loddon cricket next season, after the format proved a winner with administrators, supporters and players.
The fast 20-over format –games are usually finished within three hours – appeals to prospective players who may not have the time for longer form one-day and two-day matches.
Association president John Daldy is a huge advocate for T20, introduced this season for the first time.
Speaking after Kingower defeated Wedderburn to win the inaugural Loddon Herald Cup on Sunday, Daldy said he was keen to see more T20 games played next season, following the five rounds plus final played this year.
“What T20 is doing is bringing people out to the games and players back to the game,” he said.
While any decision would be made after the season ends in March, Daldy was confident there was wide support for increasing the number of T20 matches in future.
Any expansion would come at the expense of one-day or twoday contests.
Both Kingower captain Jayden Leach and Wedderburn skipper Will Holt said before the final that T20 had invigorated the competition and brought in new and returning players who might not have signed up under the format of previous seasons.
SCOREBOARD
and a six, the innings crumbled. Will Holt probably knew it wasn’t going to be his day when a delivery from Matt Rowe hit him in the stomach, with the ball rolling into his pad and then out again onto the stumps.
The bowling from veterans Adam Postle and Will Holt was tight and the fielding was excellent as Wedderburn tried to pile the pressure on Kingower’s chase.
But while the scoring was slow, the Band couldn’t make a break-
Anchored by opener Rowe, comfortably the best player on the day, who added 27 not out from 66 balls to his four-wicket haul, Kingower passed Wedderburn’s total with a four hit by Rowe, with just four balls remaining in the innings.
Kingower skipper Jayden Leach accepts the Loddon Herald Cup
Upper Loddon’s inaugural Loddon Herald T20 Cup champions Kingower. LH PHOTO
Over to spare in ‘break’ win
KINGOWER has kept up the pressure on ladder-leading Wedderburn in the Upper Loddon Cricket Association seniors, easing to a four-wicket victory over Bridgewater Bulls on Saturday.
The Bulls struggled to get hold of the Kingower attack, with only four players making double figures, including opener Tom McKinley, who top scored with 23.
Lachlan Dejong was the best of the bowlers, with 3-10 from his seven overs.
Kingower passed the Bulls’ total in 30 overs, with opener Matt Rowe’s composed 56 critical in the win.
Only David Rose, who finished not out on 22, managed double figures apart from Rowe.
Skipper Jayden Leach, who was not expected to play due to work commitments, did hit the field but made only seven, reducing his season’s average from more than 100 to 67.2.
Both Lewis Lonsdale and Toby Naughton took three wickets.
Arnold Redbacks had a big win over Boort Yando, who won the
toss and decided to bowl. Ryan Metelmann made 32 runs off 32 balls opening the batting, remarkably scoring all of the firstwicket stand.
Campbell Hancock batted well for 37 off 46 balls, with five fours and six, while captain Henry McCullough clubbed 27 off just 21 balls to help the Redbacks to 4-157 off their 35 overs.
In response, Boort never looked like matching the run rate and wickets fell steadily as the Magpies could only manage 9-110.
Veteran Brian Minogue impressed with 33 from 42 balls and Gary Zanker hit 22 off 25 balls before being bowled by Georgia Hancock.
Flynn Lock took 3-6 off four overs for the Redbacks, including the wicket of Minogue.
Senior cricket will resume after the Christmas-New Year break on January 11 with one-day clashes .
Arnold will be up against against Kingower and Bridgewater against Wedderburn. Boort has the bye.
- GARY WALSH
Perryman’s 5-9 wipes out tail in five overs
BOORT Yando remains undefeated in the Upper Loddon Cricket Association junior competition after a comfortable win over Kingower in their two-day match completed on Saturday.
Chasing a daunting target of 164, Kingower got off to an excellent start with a 50-run opening partnership between Tyler Murphy and Morgan Lonza.
However, that’s when the tide turned, with Kingower losing all 10 wickets for 41 runs after the first-wicket stand.
Boort’s Darby Perryman – the ninth Magpies’ bowler used –took a remarkable 5-9 of 5.5 overs to destroy the tail.
Only Riley Murphy, with 21 not out batting at number eight, withstood the onslaught, as Kingower recorded five ducks and two scores of one.
Bridgewater Bulls narrowly defeated Wedderburn Band in a one-day contest after the previous Saturday was a washout.
The Band batted first and reached 4-96 in their 26 overs, with good contributions from Beau Hartnell (31) and Shelby Giordano (26).
The Bulls got home in the last over, thanks mainly to 31 retired not out from consistent opener Lewis Lonsdale.
Jenson Birthisel’s 18 not out was crucial in getting Bridgewater home.
Junior cricket resumes on January 18, when Boort travels to play last-placed Wedderburn in a two-day clash, while Kingower hosts the second-placed Bulls.
Kingower lost to Boort Yando Boort Yando Innings
J. Malone not out 24
O. Byrne b R. Smith 0
C. Gooding c R. Smith b X. Wilson 89
L. Boyd c M. Rose b X. Wilson 2
J. Oflaherty c T. Murphy b R. Smith 2
T. Zanker b R. Leach 4
S. McClelland b J. Penrose 0
C. Hird b H. Leach 8
D. Perryman c M. Lonza b F. Lonza 3
D. King b E. Wilson 1
Extras 30 Total 9/163
Bowling: R. Smith 10-0-43-2, T. Murphy 100-47-0, X. Wilson 7.1-0-19-2, R. Leach 7-012-1, F. Lonza 4-0-4-1, J. Penrose 2-0-11-1, H. Leach 3-0-9-1, M. Rose 1-0-2-0, E. Wilson 3-0-5-1, R. Murphy 1-0-2-0. Kingower
T. Murphy b D. King 20 M. Lonza c B. McPherson b J. Malone 31 R. Smith b D. King 0 R. Leach b J. O’Flaherty 0 X. Wilson b D. Perryman 0 F. Lonza b D. Perryman 0 H. Leach c D. King b S. McClelland 1 R. Murphy not out 21 A. Wilson b D. Perryman 1 M. Rose b D. Perryman 0 E. Wilson c L. Boyd b D. Perryman 0
Extras 9 Total 10/91
Bowling: F. Arnold 5-0-26-0, B. McPherson 4-0-20-0, J. O’Flaherty 3-0-4-1, D. King 3-13-2, J. Malone 3-2-3-1, C. Hird 3-1-3-0, O. Byrne 4-4-0-0, T. Zanker 2-1-1-0, D. Perryman 5.5-1-9-5, S. McClelland 3-1-14-1, C. Gooding 1-0-6-0. Bridgewater d Wedderburn Wedderburn
B. Hartnell retired not out 31 A. Thomas b L. Lonsdale .......................... 4
S. Giorlando b E. Leahy .......................... 26
B. Cramp c&b J. Birthisel 1
E. Clarke not out 6
K. Cramp c L. Lonsdale b J. Birthisel 1 A. Clarke not out ....................................... 0
Extras 27
Total 4/96
Bowling: C. Alexander 5-1-13-0, L. Lonsdale 5-1-10-1, N. Harrison 4-0-17-0, N. Wickham 4-1-7-0, H. Kilby 2-0-18-0, E. Leahy 1-0-9-1, J. Birthisel 2-1-1-2, V. Harrison 1-0-5-0, J. Harrison 1-0-2-0, N. Power 1-0-3-0. Bridgewater
C. Alexander c K. Cramp b A. Thomas 0 L. Lonsdale retired not out 31 N. Harrison c&b A. Thomas 3 N. Wickham b E. Clarke 4 H. Kilby c&b C. Gault ................................ 4 J. Birthisel not out 18
E. Leahy b B. Cramp 10 V. Harrison not out 1
Extras 27
Total 5/98
Bowling: B. Hartnell 6-1-23-0, A. Thomas 6-0-14-2, B. Cramp 4-0-11-1, E. Clarke 3-112-1, K. Cramp 1-0-6-0, Z. Polkinghorne 1-0-3-0, W. Huismann 1-0-3-0, C. Gault 1-04-1, N. Turnbull 1-0-6-0, B. Turnbull 1-0-7-0, A. Clarke 1-0-6-0.
Upper Loddon junior season resumes on January 18 with a round of two-day matches.
Wedderburn skipper Will Holt goes the hook in the T20 final. LH PHOTO
Create your own adventure in the Loddon Valley this Summer
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