FREE EVERY THURSDAY
www.loddonherald.com.au
Loddon HERALD Vol 1 No 30 THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 2021 ISSN 2653-1569
COMPLIANCE BITE ON EVENTS Museum back in business INGLEWOOD’S Eucalyptus Distillery Museum opened at the weekend for the first time in almost 18 months. Nicole Upton, who is managing the museum, said there had been a steady flow of visitors to the museum and coffee shop. “We’ve had people from across the local area and also other parts of regional Victoria,” she said. “There were even a few caravanners from Western Australia, people who were in Victoria when latest restrictions came in and are now spending more time exploring this region.” Nicole said the museum would be open from Thursday to Monday each week. “My focus is to get tour groups back here again to learn about the area’s amazing history distilling eucalyptus,” she said. “And we’re expanding the stock of oils in the museum shop to reflect the large range of local products”. PICTURED: Nicole at the museum on the weekend. LH PHOTO
COMMUNITY groups are grappling with big bills to comply with State Government COVID compliance regulations for events. It will cost an extra $6000 for Boort Agricultural and Pastoral Society to stage its annual show in October. Society secretary Kathryn Lanyon said there were now big hurdles for groups wanting to run major community events. ““We are looking at another $6000, including outsourcing to consultatants the preparation of a risk management and safety plan,” Kathryn said. “We’re classed as a Tier 2 application for approval because of the number of people who will attend. Some of these things are above a volunteer committee.” Kathryn said the society would also have to engage additional security guards and people to act as COVID marshals. “It’s a huge burden on the committee.” She said the society had been fortunate to have support and assistance from Loddon Shire Council. Mayor and Boort Ward councillor Neal Beattie said the council was assisting the society with the additional costs. “The local show is an important event in the community. It is the only agricultural show in shire and council is working with all local organisations to make sure as many events as possible can be held.” While some country agricultural shows have already been cancelled, Kathryn said the society was committed to holding the 2021 show and would continue to review current restrictions. Inglewood Alive last week cancelled its 2021 event.
MORE REPORTS - PAGES 5 & 6