Loddon Herald 19 January 2023

T

HE tables have been cleared, the fridge is empty and it’s time to get on with the New Year. As Bradley of Boort puts it on a Treemendous sign, there’s been joy of varying degrees over the festive period and the early weeks of January.

WE’VE certainly noticed that consumption of goodies has blurred reality for some people when taking to social media during the “silly season”. For example, one disgruntled Grinch grumbled on Boxing Day that their phone calls to a medical clinic went unanswered. Or what about the question regarding services provided by the good people at local Australia Post offices: “Does anyone know if the post office can take/process express post?” There were a couple of responses but no one suggested trying the bakery or newsagency.

ONE of the more interesting social media questions came from a tourist asking what one local (somewhat major) road was like. There were no smart Alec responses that could have gone along the lines of bitumen surface with white line up the centre, occasional pot holes since floods, surrounded on both sides by stunning Australian bush landscape, spots to stop at side of road to take in what’s great about our part of the world!

SUCH a response could well have come from the Aussie Gentleman - we have seen such a person explained thus: G’day mate = pleased to make your acquaintance, You little ripper - words of praise fail me, Fair dinkum = of course I’m telling the truth; Your shout = if you value your wellbeing you should buy the next drink; Go on = I’m not entirely convinced you know what you’re talking about.

HERE at OTF, we have a knack that would do Aussie Gentleman proud for finding a funny side to the yarns that receive a few column centimetres. We don’t take anything in OTF too seriously ... turns out one person tried to whip up our reporting of Ollie the parrot into hard news. How dare Ollie even have a cup of coffee nearby when screeching out “welcome to Bridgey”, they boomed before being turned into a whimper. Ollie was so disappointed that he was wrongfully maligned for having fun. And we’re with Ollie who has fast become a favourite with locals and visitors for his incessant contributions to conversations at one of the Loddon’s most popular spots for good old rest and relaxations.

A S WE said, it’s been the silly season these past few weeks. Now it’s time to get back into real life ... where fun and laughter keep us all sane negotiating another year. Send us your funny takes on life to share in Over the Fence.

local news ... out earlier next week

THE Loddon Herald will be published on Wednesday next week.

We will have the latest in local news and sport ready for a relaxing read on our national day of celebration Australia Day next Thursday.

The edition will also include a special Australian quiz and puzzle page.

The Loddon Herald will be available from your usual pickup points at local businesses across the region and also online at www.loddonherald. com.au.

Classified advertising in next week’s edition will close at midday Monday.

Normal Thursday publication resumes on February 2.

MASONIC PRIZE Elora Dickens has been presented with a Central Goldfields Masonic Group scholarship. Elora was presented with the award by scholarship co-ordinator Ken Calder during her final assembly at Tarnagulla Primary School last month.

Family interest high in major housing estate

HOPES for growth in the Loddon’s southern corridor have been boosted with the stage one release of the shire’s first major residential estate.

Interest has been high to snap up one 15 home blocks since the Bridgewater sub-division release three weeks ago.

Agent Drew Stratton, of McKean McGregor, said: “We’ve had inquiries from local people, from semi-retired couples but generally they have come from younger families.”

Bridgewater Rise blocks in the stage one release have prices between $165,000 and $215,000.

Mr Stratton and developer Josh Cummins said Bridgewater Rise would offer a more affordable option and greater space for buyers compared with current sub-divisions in Bendigo.

Loddon Mayor Dan Straub said the Bridgewater development was a boost to the shire’s strategy for long-term population growth.

“We want people to come and live in the Loddon Shire for the lifestyle,” he said.

“Bridgewater is close to schools and a great location for those who want to commute for work.

“And this is a great project that

will bring population growth that can hopefully be extended to other communities in the Calder corridor, to Newbridge and to our towns in the north.”

Cr Straub said residential developments would continue the

upward population trend from last year’s Census that showed more people lived in Loddon communities for the first time in 20 years.

“The Census showed us having more than 7800 residents.

Culvert works ‘will reduce town division frequency’

CULVERT works in Wedderburn will lower the risk of a flooded Nardoo Creek splitting the town, Loddon Shire operations director Steven Phillips said on Monday.

Mr Phillips said a multi-cell culvert would be installed at the creek’s Godrey Street crossing.

“The project will improve safety for pedestrians and drivers as well as reduce the frequency of the town being split in two,” he said.

“Division of the town can have a significant impact and the new culverts will reduce the level of water that goes over the road when the creek does flood.”

Work on the project finally started this week after delays that Mr Phillips said he

been caused by COVID compliance requirements and staffing shortages.

Godfrey Street is expected to be closed for two months while the project is finished. Work has been jointly funded by council and through the Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery program and will also include guardrails and footpaths.

Flood waters last October saw Godfrey Street closed for more than a week. Nardoo Creek connects with nearby Korong Creek.

Flash flooding in November 2021 also saw the town split for several hours.

Mr Phillips said the new culvert system would channel the majority of flood flows “without the fear of cutting the town off at the Godfrey Street end.”

Trapped mozzies detected with Valley encephalitis strain

MURRAY Valley encephalitis had been reported in the Loddon Shire.

Victoria’s Health Department confirmed the detection on Friday night.

It said Murray Valley encephalitis had been detected last week in the Loddon, Indigo and Mildura local government areas.

The local detection comes after detections the previous week in Bendigo and Mildura. According to the department, these were the first detections of Murray Valley encephalitis in more than 10 years.

The department said people living or holidaying in northern parts of the state were warned of a current and active risk of contracting Murray Valley encephalitis, following further detections of this virus in trapped mosquitoes in additional locations.

“While there are currently no cases in humans, these detections mean there is an imminent risk to human health, so we are urging people in northern Victoria to take immediate steps to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes,” Deputy Chief Health Officer Associate Professor Deborah Friedman said.

Meanwhile, the number of active COVID-19 cases in Loddon communities has dropped. Latest figures show just eight active cases, compared with 15 the previous week. Nine cases were reported last week.

And Bendigo Health has listed on its website another round of pop-up vaccine clinics in Loddon towns over the next month.

Monkeypox vaccines have been added to Japanese encephalitis and COVID vaccines available.

We know there has been growth since last August,” he said.

“Population growth adds to make our communities vibrant and self-sufficient and helps our retailers and community organisations.”

Mr Stratton said the 35-lot Bridgewater Rise on 3.5 hectares was expected to be released in three stages.

And Mr Cummins’ family consortium for the development also owns an adjoining 3.5 hectares facing the Calder Highway.

That parcel of land could potentially be a further 35-lot extension to Bridgewater Rise.

Mr Cummins said Bridgewater Rise would give people more options on where to live in the region. He said a housing estate in Bridgewater made sense for its proximity to Bendigo but also the river lifestyle of the town.

Pre-sale of blocks in stage one would determine a start date on civil works constructing streets and installing services at Bridgewater Rise opposite the town’s recreation reserve, Mr Stratton said, and trigger release of future stages.

Cr Straub described the first steps towards a housing estate in Bridgewater as exciting for the shire.

Ribbons galore

TERRICK West Poll Merino Stud has started the year collecting nine major ribbons at Canberra’s Great Southern Supreme Merino Show. The stud was runnerup in supreme exhibit of the show. It also won supreme poll sheep, grand champion poll ram, champion August shorn poll ram, champion August shorn medium/ strong poll ram, reserve champion August shorn poll ram, reserve champion August shorn Medium/strong poll ram, champion August shorn fine/medium poll ram and junior champion August shorn poll ram.

Hall banners

TARNGULLA Public Hall committee has been awarded a $5132 Saluting Their Service grant to commission indoor and outdoor banners for display around Tarnagulla to commemorate local service personnel. The latest grants were announced by Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Matt Keogh last week.

Storm rumbles

LARGE areas of the Loddon were without electricity when a storm rolled through on Tuesday night. Strong winds caused some property damage around Bridgewater and a lightning fire was reported near Pyramid Hill.

Drew Stratton and Bridgewater Rise developer Josh Cummins. LH PHOTO

Flood dams ‘if opportunity’

MAJOR reservoirs flowing into the Loddon River were not specifically for flood mitigation, according to Goulburn Murray Water.

In a post-October flood emergency mapping report, the water authority said Laanecoorie, Cairn Curran and Tullaroop Reservoirs were “designed and operated to provide a secure and safe water supply”.

“If there is opportunity, the storages can be operated to reduce the downstream flood peak where possible,” the report said.

GMW was criticised by some Newbridge community leaders after near-record floods again sent the town’s recreation reserve under water as the Loddon River started to unleash its fury on downstream towns from October 14.

Ron Trimble said as the town’s clean-up started that he had questions, about the water management at Cairn Curran that sent massive inflows towards Laanecoorie Reservoir.

“Cairn Curran was built for flood mitigation. During the drought years it was at a low level and irrigators around here had a zero allocation,” he said.

“I don’t understand, however, the rationale of keeping it at a high level when there is a La Nina. That needs to be explained and a lot of farmers are asking the same thing.

“They (GMW) had plenty of warning there was a La Nina and

a buffer would have taken a bit out of here and south,” he said.

But releasing its Floods in Focus mapping three days before Christmas, GMW said: “Water storages may provide significant mitigation for small floods and may reduce downstream flooding. However, a storage’s ability to mitigate downstream flows so they remain below flood thresholds reduces as floods become larger.”

Analysing the build up to October’s floods, GMW said: “In September the Bureau of Meteorology declared a La Niña weather pattern for a third consecutive year – increasing the chances of above-average rainfall across the

GMW region. This was only the third time an extended La Niña has occurred since records began in 1900.

“Victoria’s weather this year (2022) has also been influenced by a negative Indian Ocean Dipole, which typically sees aboveaverage winter-spring rainfall in Australia.

“The weather patterns we have received have caused a wetter catchment, higher soil moisture content, and minimal water absorption, leading to increased runoff and higher river levels.”

“Cairn Curran Reservoir initially reached full supply level following a moderate rainfall and subsequent inflow event on Oc-

tober 7 and 8. GMW initiated a pre-release of water from Cairn Curran following this event at a rate of approximately 5000 ML a day to create space in the storage. This created approximately 16,350 ML of space prior to the major rainfall event on October 13 and 14.

“Inflows to Cairn Curran peaked at 116,000 ML a day on October 14. Releases from Cairn Curran peaked at 95,000 ML a day. Pre-releases before and during the rain event allowed the downstream flow to be reduced by approximately 21,000 ML a day. Total inflows over the 24hour period from 1pm on October 13 were around 67,000 ML, which is around 45 per cent of the total storage capacity.

“On October 13 flows from the Bet Bet and McCallums creeks as well as Tullaroop and Cairn Curran reservoirs arrived at Laanecoorie.

“The flow downstream of Laanecoorie Reservoir peaked at about 145,000 ML a day on October 14, about three metres above the major flood level.”

The report said river flows in the Loddon system rose and fell quickly in response to heavy rain.

“By October 17 the level downstream of Laanecoorie Reservoir was below moderate flood level. Once downstream of Laanecoorie Reservoir, flows dispersed across the floodplain and have been slowly moving north towards the Murray River.”

Records tumble in region’s very wet year

LODDON communities have recorded one of their wettest 12 months in 150 years.

October rainfall set monthly records in Boort, Wedderburn, Korong Vale, Tarnagulla and Dunolly.

Inglewood and Bridgewater both received a total of 785.9mm for the year but the totals fell shy of the 900mmplus in 1973, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

However, Dunolly claimed a new annual record eclipsing 2010’s 869.8mm by 0.9mm.

Just kilometres away in Tarnagulla, 716.4mm was recorded in 2022 while Korong Vale measured 713.4mm and Wedderburn 716.4mm.

Official recordings at Prairie West, where statistics have been kept since 2011, show a total of 696.6mm for the year with new monthly tops in January, May and August and again in the final four months of the year.

Canary Island’s 567.1mm was the highest since 1975. Annual figures are not available for Boort and Pyramid Hill.

The BoM says atmospheric indicators are largely unchanged, remaining at La Niña levels that will typically increases the chance of above average summer falls.

On Australia Day, 26 January, award ceremonies will be held across Loddon Shire to recognise what it means to be Australian, to acknowledge our rich history and celebrate the sel ess contributions of our volunteers.

We re ect on the resilience of our communities and their spirit of helping and giving that de nes the Australian way, epitomised in the Australia Day awardees to be honoured in Loddon Shire.

We respect the stories, histories and contributions of all Australians, particularly those among us who contribute so much towards making Loddon such a great place to live, work and visit.

We celebrate our nation’s place in the world – a proud,

ancient, multicultural nation built on shared values that allow us to enjoy the freedoms and opportunities that other nations aspire to.

Re ect, respect, celebrate – we’re all part of Australia’s story.

Australia Day celebrations in Loddon 

Boort - Nolen’s Park, starting at 9.15am followed by morning tea  Bridgewater - Sloan’s Reserve, BBQ breakfast from 8.00am 

East Loddon - Jarklin Public Hall, BBQ breakfast from 8.30am 

Eddington - Community Centre, BBQ breakfast from 8.00am 

Inglewood Swimming Pool, starting at 11.00am followed by a sausage sizzle and swimming carnival

Newbridge Public Hall, starting at 11.15am followed by a light luncheon

Pyramid Hill Memorial Hall, starting at 5.00pm followed by a sausage sizzle and activities 

Tarnagulla - Soldiers’ Memorial Park, starting at 5.00pm followed by a BBQ

Wedderburn - Soldiers’ Memorial Park, starting at 11.00am followed by a sausage sizzle

Steps you can take to reduce the risk of re around your home

Reminder that res cannot be lit in the open air without a written permit from the CFA.

Lighting a re in the open without a permit is an o ence and can result a penalty of over $19,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment.

Below are some steps you can take to reduce re risk around your home:

Keep woodpiles away from the house

Ged rid of dry grass, leaves, twigs and loose bark

Prune lower branches of shrubs to separate from surface fuels underneath

Cut back overhanging branches – no branches within 10m of dwellings

Keep grass cut to less than 10cm

Do not have large shrubs next to or under windows

Use pebbles or rocks in garden (not ammable mulch)

Keep gutters clear of leaf litter

Keep plants well-watered over warmer months For more information about what you can and can’t do during the Fire Danger Period visit www.cfa.vic.gov. au/warnings-restrictions/can To apply for a re permit visit https:// repermits.vic.gov.au/

Music heats up town recovery

THE banks of the Loddon River were rocking on Saturday when legendary Melbourne-based band Party Animals took to the deck of the town’s hall.

Hundreds of people partied into the night raising funds for the the community, the first of several Loddon towns hit by the October flood emergency.

With the now tranquil Loddon River as the backdrop and temperatures nudging 40 degrees, there was music and dancing on the grass from mid-afternoon well into the night.

Local publicans Matt and Michelle Mizzi teamed with BEEFitUP Australia Let’s Get rural projects team to raise funds towards rebuilding the recreation

reserve. Project lseader Anita Donlon said the weekend’s fundraiser had also been backed by Australian Horizons Foundation.

Raffles and refreshments were key contributors to the coffers as Newbridge awaits the final damage bill at the reserve, expected to be in the tens of thousands of dollars.

One of Party Animals’ founding members, guitarist Wayne Gale, had arrived back in Australia from Vietnam just hours before the Newbridge performance.

“It’s really important to help country communities,” he said.

Ms Donlon said further fundraising concerts were planned for flood-affected communities.

Newbridge Football Club president Andrew Friswell (centre) with club volunteers on the refreshment stall. LH PHOTO

Brendan Sheen, Gail Davies, Tracey Sheen, Geoff Blake and Francoise Blake get into the party spirit. LH PHOTO

Tash Olden (right) helped fellow Tarnagulla resident Dave Lee beat the heat during Saturday’s flood recovery fundraising concert in Newbridge. LH PHOTO

Jimmy Davidson and Michele Mizzi drum up raffle ticket sales. LH PHOTO

Firies, paramedic among speakers

FIRE chiefs and a young paramedic will be among guests speakers at Australia Day ceremonies in Loddon communities next Thursday.

Celebrations start with a community breakfast in Bridgewater where local fire brigade captain and garage owner Tim Ferguson will be guest speaker.

Tim was a key leader as the town prepared to hold back rising Loddon River floodwaters last October, just weeks after helping organise a wellbeing evening for Loddon emergency service volunteers.

This year’s East Loddon celebrations will be at Jarklin where Fire Rescue Victoria as-

sistant chief fire officer James Dullard will be guest speaker. Mr Dullard was last year recognised with the Australian Fire Service Medal.

Wedderburn has moved its celebrations to late morning this year with former local student and paramedic Olivia Holbert to be guest speaker at the Lions club event.

Loddon Mayor Dan Straub will be guest speaker at both the Inglewood and Tarnagulla celebrations.

Inglewood Lions Club is again organising that town’s event that will include a swimming carnival.

In Boort, local transport industry legend Hazel Whitmore will be guest speaker at

celebrations and ceremonies at Nolen’s Park oganised by Amity and the town’s agricultural and pastoral society. Hazel was last year inducted into the Road Transport Hall of Fame in Alice Springs.

Bendigo Winter Night Shelter board member Geoff Young will be speaker at the Newbridge celebrations.

Details are still to be confirmed for Australia Day activities at Pyramid Hill and Eddington.

Local organising committees are this year selecting their speakers after Australia Day ambassadors were appointed in previous year.

Walk to remember Bella

FAMILY and friends of Bella Canfield will walk on Saturday raising funds for charity to mark the anniversary of the teenager’s tragic death.

Bella, 18, died in a road accident while walking near her Salisbury West home last January.

“After losing Bell, we decided we have to do something in her honour and follow her passion and what she loved ... that was her love for animals, and selflessly helping people,” said mother Linda.

“So, we set about finding a fundraising activity, that encompassed both her passions, and here we are (with) Walk-For-Bell aiming to raise $35,000 for a local organisation, Righteous Pups, to cover the cost of raising and training a specialist puppy, now named Bella Rose, who will live with, help, and enrich the life of a fortunate young owner.

“Just to know there will be a little Bella Rose, assisting someone in their life, just means so much to all of us.” said Mrs Canfield.

Saturday’s fundraiser will

see family and friends leave Bridgewater Cemetery and walk to the Bridgewater Hotel where Bella had been working part-time ahead of starting university to study nursing.

Linda and husband Leigh said there had been great interest in

‘Reported issues’ at parks

PARTS of Kooyoora State Park and Mount Korong Nature Conservation Reserve remain closed.

Parks Victoria says both parks have “reported issues” after last October’s flood emergency.

Kooyoora was officially closed until early this year and barricades remain in place stopping vehicles driving to the camping area.

A Parks Victoria spokesperson told the Loddon Herald this

week: “Local rangers have completed assessments of Kooyoora State Park to determine the extent of damage caused by a number of severe weather events last year.

“Recovery planning is underway with repairs subject to approvals and industry conditions.”

The camp area at Kooyoora and picnic ground at Mount Korong remain closed as are several tracks in the parks.

Walk-For-Bell with goods and services donated for auctions to help reach the $35,000 target.

“We are very grateful to know there is still so much support and love for her, with already over 250 registered

walkers for the event,” Leigh said last week.

Righteous Pups Australia trains dogs for assistance, facility and therapy roles which empower people to live with greater independence, social inclusion, and quality of life.

Staff shortage delays swim strategy start

DEVELOPMENT of a new strategy for the future of Loddon swimming pools is a year behind schedule.

Loddon Shire Council had wanted to start work on its recreation open space and aquatic strategy last July.

But a council spokesperson says work was now “anticipated to get underway over the next few months “.

The spokesperson said: “A combination of the flood response and a vacant position within the community support team has delayed progress of the recreation, open space and aquatic strategy.

“Council has recently filled this vacant position within the community support team.”

Details of the planned strategy were confirmed last January at the height of community concern for the future of Loddon’s five swimming pools at Boort, Pyramid Hill, Mitiamo, Inglewood and Wedderburn with lifeguard shortages blamed for erratic opening days.

Pool manager Belgravia has this season recruited an increased pool of lifeguards and also extended opening hours on extremely warm days.

Council says initial work on the strategy will include the appointment of a consultant, after a tender process, to work with the community support team to develop the draft strategy.

“(This) will include consultation and engagement with the community. Following this, it is expected the draft strategy will be complete in the second half of 2023,” it said.

Rapid work gives shape to new ambulance station

INGLEWOOD’S new ambulance station quickly took shape when concrete walls were put in place with workers from contractors Bowden Corporation guiding cranes lowering the panels into place on Thursday.

The new station is due to be finished by July and is one of 14 new or refurbished stations for Victoria.

Featuring a three-bay ambulance garage, two rest and recline areas and training facilities, the project was to have been finished in December but the site sat idle for three months after demolition of the former station residence.

The new ambulance station takes shape at Inglewood.

Bella Canfield’s family prepare for Saturday’s charity fundraising walk in Bridgewater.

DUCK hunting retains overwhelming support across the Loddon as campaigners launch a fresh bid to have the 2023 season cancelled.

An exclusive Loddon Herald poll conducted this month had 83 per cent of respondents backing the annual season.

The poll was conducted over three days on the newspaper’s Facebook page and received a total of 123 votes from readers.

Regional Victorians Opposed to Duck Shooting spokesperson Kerrie Allen wants the 2023 native duck and quail shoots “cancelled based on alarming continued declines in the bird populations, lack of breeding despite two consecutive La Ninas, and significant adverse impacts of hunting on protected species and regional communities not yet adequately investigated by the hunting regulator”.

In a submission to Victorian Game Management Authority, the group claimed ex-

amples of those impacts and that tables obtained through Freedom of Information showed thousands of threatened species had been killed as collateral damage.

Ms Allen said there were also tourism operator concerns for customer safety and economic loss, landowners’ fears for their families, of trespass and the risk of spread of foot and mouth disease.

“The 40th annual aerial survey, one of the largest wildlife surveys in the country and the only objective long-term dataset, has again shown game duck populations are declining, in some cases by an order of magnitude. Ninety-six per cent of bird breeding was observed in ibis, pelican and egrets - not game ducks,” she said.

“No government authority has been able to provide an estimate of the number of public waterways open to shooters or confirm whether it is closer to 8000 or 20,000. Unlike outdoor shooting ranges,

the vast majority of duck shooting areas are neither signposted as shooting areas, nor monitored by any authorities. No health or safety risk assessments have ever been conducted for nearby residents or other recreational users, other than at two wetlands in Mildura in 2019 which were subsequently closed to shooting for safety reasons.

“Closing the 2023 shooting season is the only sensible and appropriate way to allow the birds a chance to recover and the regulator a chance to conduct overdue due diligence of social or economic impacts to community and that includes impacts to mental health”.

Last year’s season ran for three months after hunters were effectively blocked from shooting across the Loddon and Victoria by COVID lockdowns in 2021. In recent years, most duck hunting in Loddon has been on private property, shooters say.

‘Wonderful’ tips show the spirit

MORE than $400 was donated to the Uncle Bob’s Club by visitors to the annual Mysia’s Christmas Wonderland.

Alison Dean has just finished packing away hundreds of lights and Christmastheme decorations that captivated hundreds of visitors for almost a month until the final viewing on New Year’s Eve.

She said families had come from across the Loddon to share the Christmas spirit, putting bigger smiles on children who also had the chance to meet and talk with Santa Claus.

“The donations received from people will go again go to the Uncle Bob’s Club who are wonderful supporters of the Royal Children’s Hospital,” Alison said.

And while the decorations are now back in storage, Alison has started dreaming about what additions will be added to Mysia’s Christmas Wonderful when it opens in 2023. “After all, Christmas is only 48 weeks away,” she said.

Crew plugs main after water spurt

COLIBAN Water crews have repaired two burst mains in the Loddon this year.

It took three hours to restore supply to all areas of Inglewood after a New Year’s main burst. Residents started reporting a loss of water and pressure from about 7.30am on January 2.

A Coliban spokesperson later said: “The leak was located at the corner of Sullivan and Verdon St, Inglewood. Crews were dispatched and on site by approximately 10.30am, where repairs were completed. Water was restored at 1.30pm.”

And parts of Boort were without water for several hours on Sunday.

MONDAY - OPEN 4.00PM NO DINNER

TUESDAY - OPEN 4.00PM

DINNER FROM 6.00PM PARMA NIGHT

EXTENDED PARMA MENU WEDNESDAY - OPEN 4.00PM DINNER FROM 6.00PM

FULL MENU AVAILABLE

THURSDAY - OPEN 4.00PM DINNER FROM 6.00PM

STEAK’N’POT NIGHT

FRIDAY - OPEN MIDDAY

LUNCH FROM 12.00

LUNCHTIME SENIORS DAY DINNER FROM 5.30PM

MEAT TRAY RAFFLE FULL MENU AVAILABLE

SATURDAY - OPEN 4.00PM DINNER FROM 5.30PM

SUNDAY - OPEN 4.00PM NO DINNER

Jack in national memory

A RHEOLA farmer and charcoal

burner killed in World War Two has been honoured at the Australian War Memorial’s nightly Last Post service.

Three generations of the Leech family attended this month’s commemoration for Private Thomas Edward John Leach.

Wreaths were placed in his honour by John Leach (nephew), Lorraine Bisdee (niece), Diane Wright (niece) and Julie Piening (great niece) before the Last Post was sounded.

Julie said: “There were 21 fam-

ily members representing three generations of nieces and nephews attending the ceremony with others who couldn’t attend viewing online.”

Jack Leech was born at Inglewood in 1921 and grew up on the family farm at Rheola where he also went to school.

He enlisted with the 25th Battalion, a Militia unit, in 1941 and the Australian Imperial Force the following year to see service overseas.

Jack saw action in New Guinea in 1943 before leave in Australia

followed by a return to the jungle campaign that by November 1944 had him part of the Australian action against the Japanese on Bougainville.

The battalion was at the Battle of Pearl Ridge by the December, where the Australians established an observation post, repelling counter-attacks as they pushed south towards Bruin.

On March 19, 1945, the battalion drove Japanese soldiers from their post but encountered more enemy troops and became involved in a deadly fire fight

and hand-to-hand combat. Six Australians were killed in the afternoon and 17 wounded, among them was Jack Leech.

He had been wounded in the hips, hit with bullets during the skirmish, and died the next day aged 23.

Initially buried on the battleground, Jack was later interred at Port Moresby (Bomana) War Cemetery.

Jack’s photograph was illuminated on the memorial’s pool of reflection during the moving ceremony.

IN BRIEF

Portfolio change

MALLEE MP Anne Webster has been named the Coalition’s shadow assistant minister for regional health. The Nationals had a portfolio reshuffle after NSW MP Andrew Gee quit the party late last year in opposition to its stance against Labor’s proposal for the Voice referendum to give greater recognition to Aborigines in the Australian Constitution. Dr Webster became shadow assistant minister for regional development after the Coalition’s election defeat last May.

Back on street

LODDON Shire Council says work on the delayed Pyramid Hill streetscape is expected to resume on Monday. The $1.58 million streetscape project has been stalled since mid-2022. Council said the project was now scheduled for completion in August. “The project has experienced significant delays due to extended wet weather, followed by the flood and also difficulty securing the necessary sub-contractors who are in high demand,” Mayor Dan Straub said. “Council is working with the contractor to see a resumption of work as soon as possible.”

Whipping return

WHIP cracker Nathan Griggs made a return to Jarklin last Friday following his star turn at the Four Posts Hotel last month. Hundreds of people attended his encore show.

Three generations of the Leech family at the Australian War Memorial to honour their uncle Jack (above) killed in World War Two.

... and in Western Victoria

Representative faces: some seen, some not

TEN members of Parliament sit in Victoria’s Legislative Council representing Loddon communities.

Some were returned for another fouryear term at November’s election, six are having their first taste of Parliamentary life.

The Upper House voices for Loddon communities - towns in the north of the shire are in Northern Victoria Region and those south in Western Victoria - were not seen on the local campaign trail in 2022.

Three will be part of the burgeoning Legislative Council crossbench reviewing Andrews Government legislation.

So who are these MPs and what will they be doing for Loddon Shire people? Can they augment the voice and work of Lower House MPs Peter Walsh, Jacinta Allan and Martha Haylett in advancing the local region? And will they be seen in local towns?

The Loddon Herald approached all 10 with questions on how they would engage locally.

Just over half replied, including new Liberal MP in Western Victoria Region Joe McCracken, the only male in the new lineup.

The former school teacher said: “I haven’t got the office set up yet in Ballarat but once I do I’ll be able to do a lot more.

By CHRIS EARL

New Greens MP in the same region, Sarah Mansfield initially thought Loddon Shire was exclusively in Northern Victoria but once reminded that half the area is in the Legislative Assembly seat of Ripon, quickly replied: “Yes of course, Ripon covers part of Loddon Shire. I look forward to contributing.”

Geelong-based Labor MP and Agriculture Minister Gayle Tierney said: “I have had the privilege of representing Western Victoria in the Legislative Council since 2006, along with my former colleague Jaala Pulford, and now with the recentlyelected Jacinta Ermacora.

“The sheer size of our magnificent electorate has meant it is divided into duty areas, and the Loddon Shire was in the duty area of Jaala, and will now be within the duty area of Jacinta.

“However, as Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Training and Skills and Minister for Higher Education I have a strong commitment to work with communities to ensure our region thrives,” Ms Tierney said.

Neither Ms Ermacora or re-elected Lib-

eral MP Bev McArthur gave answers to Loddon Herald questions.

New Nationals’ MP in Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad committed to working with Loddon communities. “I have spoken with people from Loddon who raised concerns about the need to invest in local bridges, roads and rail, and provide better access to health care and child care services, and I look forward to speaking further about these issues and raising these matters in Parliament.”

“Our communities deserve more, and I will be ensuring that our region isn’t forgotten by the people making decisions in the city,” Ms Broad said.

Her Liberal colleague, 20-year veteran Wendy Lovell said: “Traditionally the role of the Upper House is as a house of review and includes extensive committee work, however I believe that the role of an Upper House member involves much more than that and includes providing support direct to municipalities and constituents.

“I am more than happy to assist any constituent who contacts me on local issues and to advocate for local priorities.”

Animal Justice Party’s Georgie Purcell was elected after receiving just 7123 (1.53 per cent) of the primary vote.

She said: “I am looking forward to meeting with the northern communities of the Loddon Shire and hearing what matters to them or issues they are concerned about and taking them to the government for discussion or raising them in Parliament.

“My role is to represent the issues and the policies in which I was elected on, as well as the views of constituents in Northern Victoria.”

Ms Purcell said she wanted Improved access to health care services for regional Victorians, including mental and reproductive healthcare. “I also have a great interest in protecting the wildlife and environment at Lake Boort.”

The Government’s Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes and new MPs Rikkie Lee Tyrell (One Nation) did not have a response to Loddon Herald questions.

Defeated Derryn Hinch Justice Party MPs Tania Maxwell and Stuart Grimley made annual visits to Loddon.

Loddon eyes will be watching to see what appearances the new batch of 10 make on the local patch.

VICTORIA -

-

Come and join us at the Victoria Hotel in Pyramid Hill

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

Our winter trading hours are as follows

MONDAY • OPEN 3.00PM DINNER FROM 6.00PM SOCIAL DARTS NIGHT

TUESDAY • OPEN 2.00PM DINNER FROM 6.00PM

WEDNESDAY • OPEN MIDDAY LUNCH FROM 12.00 POT’N’PARMA NIGHT DINNER FROM 6.00PM

THURSDAY • OPEN 11.00AM DINNER FROM 5.30PM STEAK’N’POT NIGHT

FRIDAY • OPEN MIDDAY LUNCH FROM 12.00

HAPPY HOUR 5.00-6.30 DINNER FROM 5.30PM

JOKER POKER 5.00-8.00

MEAT TRAY RAFFLE

SATURDAY • OPEN MIDDAY LUNCH FROM 12.00 DINNER FROM 5.30PM

SUNDAY • OPEN MIDDAY ALL DAY PIZZA MENU

I’m currently working from home, but as you can gather, in the car a lot.”

Gaelle Broad Wendy Lovell

Jaclyn Symes

Rikkie Lee Tyrell

Georgie Purcell

MPs on the Northern Victoria bench ...

Gayle Tierney

Jacinta

Ermacora

Bev McArthur

Joe McCracken

Sarah Mansfield

DAVID

The former Loddon Shire Council employee was secretary of Wedderburn Golf Club when he passed away, aged 65, earlier this month.

Both David and his late wife Tricia were heavily involved in the community through tennis, netball, football, golf and the local school.

“It’s not every day that we have new people walk into our small community and become so involved and leave such a positive mark in the hearts of the people and our clubs,” the golf club said in a tribute.

David was manager infrastructure program development with the shire and was on the Loddon weed control commit-

OBITUARIES

Survivor of naval collision

JAMES WATSON

JIM Watson passed away suddenly on Christmas Day after attending lunch with friends in Wedderburn.

The Royal Australian Navy veteran had lived in Wedderburn 20 years after working in mines and on the sea throughout his colourful life.

Jim had served in the Vietnam War and earlier survived the infamous collision between HMAS Voyager and HMAS Melbourne in 1964 that killed 14 officers and 67 sailors.

He later passed the navy’s strenuous nine-month shallow water diving course that had sailors duck walking on a jetty

tee, a collaboration with Loddon Plains Landcare Network, North Central Catchment Management Authority, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Parks Victoria, Conservation Volunteers Australia and other local natural resource management organisations.

In 2014, he had said: “Wheel cactus is currently identified as our number one priority, followed by rabbits and Paterson’s curse.” Dave also served as senior football selector for Wedderburn Redbacks for several years.

His funeral service was held in Wedderburn last week.

and clothed in heavy overalls, jumping into water. He was sent to the Pacific Islands and Vietnam working as a diver and assisting with clearing rivers.

“When I got out of the navy after 15 years, I went working on oil rigs and then as a shot firer in the mines - coal in Queensland and gold in northern Queensland and Western Australia,” he told the Loddon Herald last year.

“I was working in the superpit at Kalgoorlie from 1991 to 1998 as drill and blast foreman.

“Drove over there in the middle of summer from Queensland,” Jim said.

“I was always interested in the sea. I used to get the train to Fre-

JUSTIN (JJ) MULQUINY

MORE than 600 people packed Boort Memorial Hall last week for the funeral of Justin Mulquinry.

Known as JJ, the popular sports identity and businessman died on Christmas Day, aged 41. JJ was a partner with father Leon in the family’s fuel distribution business that covered a large part of central and northern Victoria.

Boort Yando Cricket Club president Al Knight said: “JJ had such a profound impact on not only this cricket club, but the entire community.”

JJ had coached the club’s successful junior cricket teams for many years.

“His influence within our club is profound, not only as a coach but as a player, volunteer, committee member and as the true Mr Fix-it. JJ was the one who was al-

mantle to look around the ships ... so eventually I just joined the navy.

“My grandfather signed my (enlistment) papers. My father was ex-army and wouldn’t sign.”

Jim came south to Melbourne to work with his brother and then ended up in Wedderburn two decades ago when an offer of work came along.

He had been an active member of Wedderburn-Korong Vale RSL sub-branch and often acted as flag marshal at ANZAC and Remembrance Day commemoration services.

Jim’s funeral was held at the RSL clubrooms followed by a private cremation.

ways there to pass an idea by, as a true sounding board, especially when it came to the growth of the club or helping to identify areas of improvement,” Mr Knight said.

Football club president Kane Arnold said: “JJ was a big contributor to our club and was always willing to lend a hand with no job ever too big or small. From greeting you at the gate with his cheeky grin, running water and messages to the boys as our senior runner and being an active committee member for many years.

“JJ and the Mulquiny family have also been incredibly generous sponsors of the football club for many years.”

DAVID FRY

Navy veteran Jim Watson ... passed away on Christmas Day. LH PHOTO

Big jump in roo harvest quota

KANGAROO hunters have seen their harvesting quota in the lower Wimmera zone increase 70 per cent.

The higher quota for the zone, that includes the Loddon Shire, comes after no new tags were issued to shooters in the final months of 2022.

This year’s quota numbers for Victoria’s six zones were released on Christmas.

Loddon hunter Glen Cole said the allocation of 41,000 for the lower Wimmera zone in 2023 was a massive improvement for the harvest industry.

The total quota for Victoria is 166,750.

“The October floods have made no difference to kangaroo populations in our part of Victoria,” Mr Cole.

Victorian Kangaroo Alliance has criticised the State Government’s decision to continue kangaroo harvesting.

Alliance supporters campaigned against a proposed kangaroo pet meat processing plant at Inglewood last year.

Loddon Shire Council rejected the application from Campaspe Meats on a planning technicality.

Alliance president Alyssa Wormald said: “We were appalled but unsurprised that Victorian Labor once again dug the knife into the wildlife community over the holidays when they know hardworking wildlife volunteers

were trying to get a much-needed break.”

“The claim that kangaroo numbers are increasing is completely incongruous with reports we receive from across the state,” she said.

“Residents are reporting dwindling numbers and despite commercial shooters soliciting desperately across the state for kangaroos to kill, they have again not come close to filling their quota.

“We have absolutely no faith in government figures and are calling for an urgent inquiry into the treatment of kangaroos in Victoria and the impact the slaughter is having on residents, wildlife volunteers and indigenous people.

“Ultimately we need a royal commission to independently analyse this nightmarish wildlife trade across the nation as the state and federal governments are openly in cahoots with the kangaroo industry.”

The Government says its kangaroo harvesting quota is based on each zone’s estimated population. “Zones with a higher proportion of Victoria’s kangaroo population will generally have a higher quota,” it says.

The initial quota for 2022 was 127,850, however, it was later cut to 118,980 with a hold on harvesting in the lower Wimmera and north-east zones.

than five years after first promised by the State Government, work on a dangerous Loddon intersection started this week. The Y intersection of Bridgewater-Maldon Road and the Wimmera Highway will be changed to a T junction. Regional Roads Victoria says works are “expected to be completed in late May 2023, weather permitting”. A 40kmh speed limit will be in place while the new intersection is constructed.

Art interest mountain high Police investigate highway crash

ORGANISERS of next month’s

Major’s Vision Art Show in Pyramid Hill are pitching rail travel to bring more tourists to the town.

Terry Wood said the art show and competition would enhance the town’s attraction for people looking for a day trip out of Bendigo.

“The exhibition will be in the memorial hall just metres from the railway station and the more energetic can also take a walk out to the hill,” he said. “The train timetable works in our favour for attracting visitors to town.”

Mr Wood said more than 120 entries had already been received

with more expected before the closing date on January 31.

Paintings will be exhibited in the hall for a week by Pyramid Hill Progress Association.

Mr Wood said: “The art show and competition aims to promote and expose art to our young people and provide an art show to the local population who may not have had the opportunity to see quality art.”

The Major’s Vision Art Show was originally scheduled for last October but postponed by the flood emergency. Mr Wood said support of sponsors had been vital in rescheduling the event.

LODDON police are investigating a single-vehicle crash on the Wimmera Highway last week.

Fire brigades from Rheola and Murphys Creek and Wedderburn SES volunteers were called to the smash about 8am when a car collided with a tree at Cochranes Creek.

The driver was taken to Bendigo Health and police said inquiries were continuing.

Meanwhile, Loddon fire brigades have also attended multiple blazes in the first weeks of 2023, including haystack fires near Boort and Calivil.

MORE

Push for safe street

By CHRIS EARL

INGLEWOOD residents want drivers to give their main street more respect.

The new call for reduced speed and greater safety comes after Brooke Street was blocked for almost 10 hours on New Year’s Eve by an overturned B-Double.

Publican Steve Weavell watched as the street was cleared. “We want traffic coming through town ... but we want them to travel at a safe speed.”

While designated a 50kmh zone, one bend approaching the main shopping blocks has an advisory 25kmh sign.

Residents have been increasingly vocal for the past two years about the speed some vehicles travel the narrow section of the Calder Highway.

“It’s the Calder Highway, not the Calder Raceway,” said Ian Collie as he joined friends at the weekend to urge Calder caution in Inglewood.

The 458km Calder Highway connects Melbourne with Mildura and passes through three Loddon communities - Bridgewater, Inglewood and Wedderburn.

Jenny Gooch lives opposite the dangerous bend. After the New Year’s Eve tipover, she said: “They (drivers) just need to slow down. Perhaps flashing lights are the answer to make people aware of the bend.”

Jenny’s son Corey said some drivers thought it was okay to speed through town.

Denis Rogers, who owns shops

on the bend, said there had been numerous accidents over the last 30 years.

He remembers a truck load of oranges tipping in 1992.

And while the bend camber has been altered, accidents have continued.

Further along Brooke Street, business owners have been calling for greater action to make the main street safe. Antique store owner Catherine Norman has said that speed is a regular

issue for people about to leave their cars to go shopping.

And Peter Moore, owner of the IGA supermarket and president of the town’s tourism and development committee, has called for speed warning signs at both ends of the main street.

Mr Weavell said: “We don’t want a bypass. We don’t want to see our livelihood diverted at Bridgewater and sent in the direction of Serpentine. We just want out main street safe.”

‘Cat thud’ sends morning milk spilling onto highway

RAY EDGLEY thought the cat had knocked over a tin. Instead he discovered an overturned BDouble had wiped out his front fence and stopped just a metre short of the old Inglewood Motors garage

The loud thud in Brooke Street early New Year’s Eve reverberated around town.

Denis Rogers was working on his computer “when I heard a whoosh and a thump”.

He had a vintage Rolls Royce stored in the garage bay.

Ray said: “It woke me up for sure. I wandered out, thinking the cat may have knocked something over but there was nothing on the front verandah.”

“I couldn’t see the road and then I looked and saw the BDouble, the horn started sounding and the door opened ... the driver got out ... not a scratch,” Ray said.

“The truck was on its side, I saw a fence paling through the windscreen.”

The truck, in the livery of South Australian-based transport company Dasam Logistics, had been travelling from Shepparton to Adelaide with carton milk.

Company representatives were

in Inglewood by mid-morning and confirmed the cargo had been 30 pallets of carton milk.

Jenny Gooch said there had been a bang “and then a thud” as the rolling truck cracked the still morning air.

Ron Heenan said the rollover was heard in all directions.

“I wondered what it was until I came into the main street a few hours later.

Ron Edgley said it was the first rollover on the corner in 18 years he had been living in Brooke Street.

“But there have been numerous cars and trucks mounting the kerb,” he said.

The rollover took out a 50kmh limit sign and flattened a speed advisory sign. Those signs are still to be replaced by Regional Roads Victoria along with safety rails on the corner.

Heavy haulage trucks came from Castlemaine to remove the upturned truck.

A bobcat then began clearing crushed and fractured milk cartons leaking onto the highway bitumen as temperatures rose into the 30s.

Inglewood Fire Brigade members, who had been among the first on the scene after the rollover was reported, returned around lunchtime to wash away the split milk.

Traffic was diverted until the highway re-opened about 1.30pm on New Year’s Eve.

Sgt Ben Huismann, of Wedderburn police, said the truck driver had been charged with traffic offences.

- CHRIS EARL

Regional Roads Victoria was contacted by the Loddon Herald for latest road use statistics for the narrow Brooke Street section of the Calder Highway.

In 2016, a petrol tanker overturned on another bend near the town’s golf club where the highway speed drops to 60kmh, lowered to 50kmh near the second bend. That rollover brought down powerlines and saw fuel spill onto the highway. Parts of the town were evacuated.

Adrienne counts her lucky stars

ADRIENNE Mackintosh had just parked her car in the afternoon shade last week when a trailer being towed on the Calder Highway clipped four vehicles.

“I had parked on the other side but then decided to move across into the shade,” she said back home after being taken to hospital with a fractured rib.

“I still had the seatbelt on ... I only went up to the supermarket for some cat food and then there was this bang.

“The car bounced and went side ways. My car certainly took the brunt.

“I’ll rest up now for a few days,” Adrienne said when she contacted the Loddon Herald.

A utility in speedway livery and flying a Eureka flag was on the trailer.

Sgt Ben Huismann, of Wedderburn police, said a driver had been towing a trailer when the axel failed, causing it to swing into the four parked cars.

The accident happened about 5.40pm on January 8.

Steve Weavell (front) and Inglewood residents call for greater caution in town. LH PHOTO

Ray Edgley ... “truck was on its side with a fence paling through the windscreen”. LH PHOTO

Spilt milk ... the clean-up in Brooke Street. LH PHOTO

Ray Edgley took this photograph of the tipped truck from the roof of his Brooke Street home.

Co-op bunkers down harvest

A $700,000 investment has quickly been converted to storing this season’s harvest at Boort Grain Co-op.

The local agribusiness purchased an additional 20 hectares ajoining its base during harvest.

Co-op chairman Neil Beattie said the land purchase and civil works had come in close to $700,000.

Manager Jon Bucknall said coop receivals to the end of last week had been 185,000 tonnes, up 15,000 tonnes on the same time last season.

Barley has again been the major grain delivered with 85,000 tonnes received across the four quality grades.

Mr Bucknall said 45,000

tonnes of wheat had been delivered, mainly ASW, GP1 and SFW1 grades.

“We have received about 43,000 tonnes of canola, both non-GM and GM, plus about 8000 tonnes of oats and 4000 tonnes of faba beans,” he said.

“It’s all being stored in bunkers ... we have 35 with a lot of smaller smaller segregations.

“I would anticipate the bulk of harvest to be complete by end of month, however it is likely there will still be receivals into February.”

Mr Bucknall said the consensus was that barley and canola yields were good but wheat in many areas had been disappointing.

“Feed wheat prices have been

holding up well, however we are just starting to see some fresh selling interest which may see some short-term downward pressure on prices. There is a lot of grain warehoused, not just locally.”

Meanwhile, Graincorp said 231,490 tonnes were received at its Victorian sites last week with a total of 3,814,780 tonnes so far.

Southern Stockfeeds is also receiving steady deliveries at its Bridgewater silos.

Grain cash bids at Boort last Friday were - Wheat APW1 $352, ASW1 $352, AGP1 $349, SFW1 $349. Barley BAR1 $290, BAR2 $275. Canola non-GM $710, GM $690.

Faba beans were at $330.

SHEEP MARKET

LAMB numbers declined 15 per cent at Bendigo on Monday to 14,700 head, however sheep supply lifted to 7300 head.

Well-finished lambs continued to be in short supply against a lot of plainer and lighter types.

On the demand side, most of the regular buying orders were present but some processors weren’t every active.

Prices were up to $10 dearer for the best heavy and trade lambs, while buyers continued to penalise secondary types lacking weight and condition.

Shorn lambs received better support than woolly types with skins worth little at present.

Competition for sheep was subdued and mutton was $10 to $20 cheaper.

The heaviest export lambs over 30kg cwt sold from $243 to a top of $288, with buyers favouring shorter-skinned types that were ‘hard fat’.

The heavy 26-30kg lambs varied from $209 to $261 with buyers sometimes selective on pens that showed less shape and fat cover.

The lead of the heavy lambs were estimated at costing from 800c to 860c/kg lwt.

The best of the heavy trade lambs $180 to $212. But any lambs that were dry and lacked fat cover continued to be penalised and were often cheaper.

Medium trade lambs lacking polish $150 to $175; lighter lambs to the paddock and for MK processing $100 to $140; the

smallest lambs $44 to $90/head. Sheep were cheaper amid less demand shown by exporters. The heaviest crossbred ewes $114 to $128, the main runs of heavy ewes in the 24-30kg cwt range $90 to $117; and plain and light sheep $59 to $80.

SUCKERS

A & C Dalrymple Narrewillock (52) $243, Westmore Farms Serpentine (65) $209, N & M Hocking Pyramid Hill (20) $205, BT & N Collins Fentons Creek (46) $192.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

Somerville Feeds P/L Tragowel (61) $288, ALB & R McINtosh Wanalta (68) $280, O’Sullivan Trading Elmore (43) $266, DJ & ED Lees Rochester (44) $263, AA Jensen & Son Raywood (204) $261, AB & KB Broom Neereman (86) $255, Jacki Brown Colbinabbin (100) $250, Mirnee Partnership Hunter (86) $245, WL & PJ Johnson Myola East (84) $245, G Spinks Nominees Kyalite (132) $243, Monmore P/L Laanecoorie (22) $242, CA & TR Borger Colbinabbin (122) $239, R & B McKenzie Elmore (97) $237, B Weaver & Co Boort (47) $200.

MERINO WETHERS

AV, LJ, AV & JA Cook Baddaginnie (168) $125.

CROSSBRED EWES

NA & DJ Seach Pranjip (115) $125, Yencken Past Mansfield (84) $115.

MERINO EWES

BJ & JP Lynas Lake Boga (44) $137, BF Gowers P/L Merrinee (141) $133, Mirnee Partnership Hunter (23) $125, JR Lendon Walmer (32) $117, Robin Neilson Baringhup (52) $113, A & C Dalrymple Narrewillock (69) $110.

Next week’s order of draw: Nuttall, Nutrien, Nevins, Elders, McKean McGregor.

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

Enjoy nature at its best.

The homestead is situated on 220 acres on the southern slope of Mount Buckrabanyule, lending to farming pursuits. A further 100 acres is also available in this sale, currently cropped and leased. Improvements at the homestead block include machinery shed, workshop, barn, windmill and 3 catchment dams. The homestead features 3 bedrooms, kitchen with gas cooktop & pantry, laundry utility room with second shower and toilet, solar HW system, delightful sun room to further enjoy the landscape. Wimmera Mallee pipeline is connected to both lots being offered.

Expressions of Interest close 12pm Friday 10th February 2023.

Expression of Interest forms available from the selling agent, inspections strictly by appointment.

Noel Bennett 0417 562 691

Elders Wycheproof 03 5493 6400

An aerial photograph showing 35 bunkers on the expanded Boort Grain Co-op site last week.

a cat’s ears called? 7. A group of ravens is known as? 8. What type of animal is a Flemish giant? 9. The name of which African animal means “river horse”?

10. What is a duel between three people called?

11. In the US state of Georgia, it’s illegal to eat what with a fork? 12. Who invented the word “vomit”? 13. How long is New Zealand’s Ninety Mile Beach? 14. What is measured in “Mickeys”? 15. What is the opposite of matter?

16. Which of Newton’s Laws states that ‘for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction?

17. In 2004, what was discovered on the island of Flores in Indonesia?

18. What is the nearest planet to the sun?

19. In what type of matter are atoms most tightly packed?

20. What is the hottest planet in the solar system?

Look at alternatives to town levee bank

Sir, Please allow me to make a few comments on the article Djaara Levee Block (Loddon Herald December 8, 2022).

During the significant floods of 2011, sections of Boort almost flooded due to Lake Boort being held way over full supply at 92.25 metres above sea level while Lake Lyndger was only 91.50 metres above sea level, in other words 75cm difference between the two lakes. When the water recedes the two lakes used to be at the same level as there was a deep creek between them.

One of the restrictions was removed by the shire in 2018. Mr Phillips from the Loddon Shire quoted in the Loddon Herald: “This work included removing obstructions in the channel to improve the flow between Big Lake Boort and Lake Lyndger. The recent flooding has proven this work to be a success”.

It was quoted in the Loddon Herald that ‘Part One’ of the Flood-proofing Boort Project was completed in mid-December 2018 and yet, an excavator was employed to remove restrictions where the channel had been replaced by a pipe as the 2022 flood arrived.

In my opinion, this project was not completed as there are cattle yards and sheds still in the flood-way, also banks of soil due to other man-made projects. If all of these restrictions were removed the level could drop another 200mm in Lake Boort during a flood.

It is important that the shire meet with the Boort Tourism Development Committee to make sure that this project is completed properly.

I honestly think that the planned flood bank along the edge of Lake Boort (Stage two) is a Band-aid solution, instead of looking at the real problem, the restriction between the two lakes.

Around 1914, there was a request to the Gordon Shire to raise the level of Lake Boort another 300mm, after this project Lake Boort was used as an Irrigation Storage for Mercer’s Estate and other irrigators below.

A pipe and door were placed under the Boort-Pyramid Road in the bottom of the creek between the two lakes and filled with dirt 300mm above full supply level then the box culverts were constructed on top, meaning that the lake could not spill until it was over full.

In 2011, the proposed flood bank on Djaara country seemed important to save the town from floods, now that we have started to remove restrictions the bank does not hold the same importance.

In 2022, the October flood, Lake Boort was 210mm lower than 2011, even though the floods contained about the same volume of water. Both floods at the peak had a

flow-rate of approximately 5,000Ml a day coming from the Wedderburn Hills and the Loddon River.

In the early 1990s, the engineer of the Gordon Shire saw the problem between the two lakes and had a new culvert placed below full supply level on the east side of the current culverts. Graham Hall wanted this structure to be much wider but failed with his request.

This structure has been very successful by allowing floods to start running sooner and drain the lake to full supply level stopping private land to the south remaining under flood water.

The money set aside for Stage Two should be invested in removing further blockages and better flood flow under the Boort-Pyramid Road.

I request the shire to consider solving the blockage instead of constructing a new flood bank. Some of the money should be spent upgrading the existing Flood Protection Banks near Templeton Drive which are sufficient if more blockages were removed.

Suggested options for the Boort-Pyramid Road is to lower the present box culverts by at least 500mm so they start running before the lake is at full supply level.

Another option is to construct a new culvert at a lower level on the west side of the existing box culverts.

I now sense that the article has caused divisions in our community especially when we are aiming for reconciliation, by pointing the finger at the Dja Dja Wurrung for the lack of progress on flood proofing of Boort, when the water heights tell us that the problem is at the outlet of Lake Boort.

PaulHaw Boort

October 21, a week after the floods impacted the Bridgewater on Loddon community. During that period, BlazeAid completed its work on the 70 properties that registered for assistance by clearing over 50km of fencing and rebuilding and standing up over 40 km of fencing. It did that with the help of 130 volunteers who worked a total of 900 volunteer days.

BlazeAid is proud to have contributed work to the value of approximately $180,000 in helping the community to rebuild after the flooding. BlazeAid could not have done that without the great support of the community from providing the Bridgewater Recreational Reserve facilities to the meals, slices, cakes and more provided by organisations and individuals in the community.

Special thanks to Jany Clutton who coordinated all the contributions of food and much more to the camp, to Colleen and Dave at Bridgewater and Sue at Newbridge who provided the names of many property owners requiring assistance, facilitating BlazeAid getting out onto properties quickly after establishing its camp.

Extra special thanks to the Kalianna Specialist School in Bendigo where its teachers and VCAL students came to the camp every Thursday to cook dinner for the BlazeAid volunteers.

Since its inception in 2009, BlazeAid has had 35,000 volunteers through its camp, working 365,000 volunteer days, helping 12,000 properties and clearing and rebuilding 34,000km of fencing.

BlazeAid is a registered tax-deductible organisation relying entirely on donations that go directly to the work of supporting rural landowners after natural disasters. Any donations would be very much appreciated.

900 days of volunteering

Sir, The BlazeAid camp at Bridgewater closed on the December 17 some nine weeks after it was invited in by the community to set up camp at the Bridgewater Recreational Reserve, which it did on the

BlazeAid was at Bridgewater to assist in the recovery effort after the 2011 floods being the first camp established after its inception following the 2009 bushfires.

It has again helped in the 2022 floods and it will again help the community to rebuild after any future natural disasters.

GraemeAllen BlazeAid

Ploughs cut way to success

JAMES Leslie established his blacksmith in Marong during 1873.

Leslie discovered water at a depth of five feet close by to his blacksmith shop at Marong in February 1875.

Several Leslie manufactured ploughs were used at the Raywood and Sebastian ploughing match held on the O’Connor property at Campbells Forest and at the North Western Agricultural Society’s match on Dr Crosland’s farm near the Inglewood racecourse - both in August 1876.

Leslie ploughs were often used at a number of ploughing matches.

Although the blacksmith shop was a hive of activity in December 1875 a snake decided to pay a visit. Mr. Leslie chanced to see the snake just as Henry Winzar was about to step on it.

An improved roller for crushing clods was manufactured by Leslie, described as our local Vulcan, for Mr Tassel, the station manager of Finlay Campbell’s, Auchmore, in May 1877.

The following month Leslie was fitting the new Lennon patent “bush” to the wheel of ploughs.

Leslie sought permission from the Marong Shire Council to sink a well in High street, Marong in July 1878 he having built a boring drill that was capable of boring down twenty feet ,it making a hole 7½ inches in diameter.

The annual Bendigo Champion Ploughing Match was held in Holme’s paddock, Strathfieldsaye, on August 14, 1878, T. E. Poynting winning with a Leslie plough.

Poynting, of Melbourne also used a Leslie plough when winning the Champions Cup at the Sebastian, Raywood and Campbell’s Forest ploughing match held on Mr Simmon’s paddock in August 1879, however the Leslie plough was found unsuitable for the land of Edward Stone, at Laanecoorie, when the sixth annual Central Loddon Farmers’ Club ploughing match was held, however the luncheon provided by George Cousins, of Cousin’s hotel, Woodstock, was appreciated by many of 1000 people in attendance.

Leslie awarded second prize for a set of harrows whilst his two ploughs got a worthy mention at the North Western Agricultural Show held at Inglewood in October 1878 whilst the following year he was awarded first prize for his swing plough and drag harrows along with best collection of farming implements.

It was also during that month that Leslie exhibited at the Bendigo Agricultural and Horticultural Society show where he was awarded second prize for his swing plough.

James Leslie, Marong Iron Works, was awarded first prize plough shares off the hammer at the Bendigo Show in April 1879.

During their leisure hours the apprentices at the works were manufacturing their own plough for competition, it to be used

By KEN ARNOLD

by Arthur Wallis at a friendly ploughing match in June 1879.

Arthur Wallis soon left Marong bound for Yanipy where he established his own blacksmith.

Leslie won a silver medal for the best collection of agricultural implements at the Sandhurst Industrial Exhibition in 1879.

Two apprentices in the employment of Leslie manufactured their own model ploughs for the Melbourne Juvenile Exhibition, viz: James Nicholls built a single furrow plough whilst George Parkinson built a double furrow plough. Both models, being fitted with the most recent improvements, were described as perfect models as it is possible to conceive or execute.

Western Agricultural Society plough match at Bridgewater in July 1880 and then at the paddock of H Wilson, Marong in August when six Marong made ploughs were used.

Leslie was awarded first prize for his combined double furrow plough with sub soiler, a horse hay rake and best collection of implements at the North Western Agricultural Society held in Inglewood in October 1880. The following year he took all the prizes for single and double furrow ploughs along with harrows.

A number of Leslie ploughs were used, along with Hugh Lennon (Melbourne), Gardner & Co (Kyneton), McCalman & Garde (Melbourne) at the Bendigo Agricultural and Horticultural Society 20th ploughing match held on the property of T. Woods in August 1881. James Leslie do-

at Marong in November 1889. Charley Ah Kow attacked James Leslie with a tomahawk which resulted in a nasty gash on the forearm in January 1890. The hawker thought that Leslie was attempting to steal from his wagon.

An attempt was made to form a branch of the National Reform and Protection League prior to it being named the Marong National Reform and Protection League in January 1890, of which James Leslie was a foundation member.

A shaft was being sunk east of his property on the Bullock Creek in September 1890, looking for gold.

James Leslie had built a buggy for W. Wood, of the Railway Hotel, Marong by November 1890. The painting and “picking out” and ornamentation carried out by William Kirk was described as can scarcely be excelled.

The employees at the Marong Ironworks were quickly on hand when a fire broke out in the house of T. Walker on April 6, 1891. An amount of clothing was burnt whilst the roof suffered damage.

James Leslie applied for a patent for coupling and uncoupling railway trucks and carriages in 1892.

Thieves broke into the blacksmith shop of Leslie, described 400 yards east of the railway station, on April 4, 1892. They stole two large hammers, three cold chisels and a pair of tongs before breaking into the station and stealing the safe which was wheeled about 400 yards towards Bridgewater.

By 1895, life was tougher for Leslie, when causes of his insolvency was put down to dullness of trade, inability to collect book debts, pressure of creditors, and sickness of family.

The cases or frames in which they were exhibited were also of local construction having been made by Mr. John Thompson - December 1879.

The following month Leslie was awarded a silver medal for the best collection of farm implements and for his plough shares at the Sandhurst Exhibition.

Leslie won more than his fair share of prizes during the 1880s including two silver medals for his horse hoe and drill - 1889. In total 15 gold, 22 silver and two bronze medals whilst in business at Marong.

The Leslie-manufactured ploughs were quickly making a name for themselves they being used as far afield as Barnadown and at the Bungaree, Dean and Warrenheip ploughing match.

Extensive renovations were being carried out on the Leslie residence in February 1880.

Leslie ploughs were used at the North

nated a coulter, value 10/- for best crown class C, persons under 17 years of age.

Leslie best crown and the best finish, a coulter being the prize in class F double furrow was in 1882.

J Leslie donated a coulter as a prize for the best crown, value 10/-, class B single furrow, ditto class D double furrow, held in the paddock of H. Wilson in 1886, there were thirty two competitors and a crowd of 500 spectators.

Leslie was manufacturing a three furrow plough in 1887, the same year her donated a coulter for class C, single furrow and Class E single furrow ploughs at the local ploughing match, however as he was helping to organise the matches he was not present in 1888 but the following year Leslie donated a coulter for best crown in Class E treble plough.

James Leslie, Marong Ironworks, and John Steel, of the Springfield Farm, Marong, painted the Presbyterian church

Leslie was given a send off at the Railway Hotel, Marong in July 1895, he moving to Bendigo where he established a rolling stock works with his sons in Myers Street.

The township was in the grip of drought by January 1896, the temperature being over 100 degrees in the shade. Had it not been for the spring that Leslie had found, the residents of Marong would have suffered.

A road plough made by Leslie was used to tear up several lengths of road in Pall Mall so that the new tram line could be laid in 1902.

The previous year, it had been reported that four steel plough shares and 12 Massey Harris cast iron plough shares had been stolen from his Bendigo premises.

Leslie exhibited ploughs, scarifiers, a wire strainer and shears at the Bendigo Agricultural Society Spring show in October 1908. Although the odd advertisements appeared in the Bendigo papers the business of James Leslie did not seem to make the news.

New member wants to amplify voices of rural Victoria

By MARTHA HAYLETT

THIS summer I hope you have had a chance to relax and spend time with those closest to you.

On December 20th I was officially sworn in as your new Member for Ripon in the 60th Parliament of Victoria.

I gave my first speech that day and spoke about how it will be the honour of my life to serve the people of Ripon.

I also made a promise to all communities across the electorate.

I promised to not measure my success by how many terms I serve or how high up the ladder I

State per S pective

may climb. But that I will instead measure success by how strongly I amplify your voices, and the voices of working people in rural and regional Victoria.

I want to get straight to work, delivering on the promises made during the campaign. This includes delivering a brand new low-cost, government-operated child care centre for the Loddon Shire.

Families will also enjoy free kinder for 3 and 4-year-olds this year – saving them an average of $2,500 per child per year. The

Andrews Labor Government will also make it free to study nursing or midwifery in 2023 and 2024, and make car registration free for eligible apprentices – worth up to $865 every year.

Locally, I am looking forward to delivering $50,000 for the much-loved Wedderburn Community House and seeing works complete on the massive $12.8 million upgrade of Wedderburn College, and $1.8 million upgrade of Tarnagulla Primary School.

I will also be focused on supporting our Loddon community

every step of the way as we recover from the recent floods. I saw the very best of the community in the very worst of circumstances immediately after the October floods. Now that the waters have receded and the mud has been cleared, I will work closely with impacted residents and groups, council representatives, CFA brigades, and the SES to build back better.

Because we know the rains will come again, just as we know that the droughts and fires will come too. But we need to ensure our communities and our incredible volunteers have the backing they need to build back better and

stronger every time. I will also be focused on improving mobile coverage across our communities, fixing our roads, and supporting our farmers – especially as they deal with the impacts of extreme weather and floods on their harvests.

The Labor Government has delivered a lot for our rural and regional communities, but there’s still more to do. I intend on being a member who listens, who cares. And who is your local voice –first and always.

I will open my new office in Maryborough from late January.

Advertising for a Leslie implement in 1909.

BAKER William

McDONALD

Shirley, Darren and Brett McDonald and families wish to express their heartfelt thanks to everyone for their support during Brian’s battle with cancer and since he passed away. All of your expressions of sympathy whether it be in the form of cards, phone calls, visits, flowers or cooking were very much appreciated.

Thank-you

WAGNER

The Wagner family would like to thank everyone who sent cards, flowers, and their condolences on the passing of our beloved Mum and Nan, Betty.

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

Board

FRY - David

Passed away peacefully in Bendigo on 7th January. Aged 65 years.

Beloved Husband of Tricia (dec.). Much loved Dad of Georgia and Edwina. Father and Grandfather of Luke, Emily and their families.

“Now reunited with the love of his life” The funeral service was held 13th January

MULQUINY - JUSTIN ‘JJ’

NOTICE OF BOATING ACTIVITY EXCLUSION ZONE

Marine Safety Act 2010

Loddon Shire Council as the declared waterway manager for the Loddon River at Bridgewater between Flour Mill Weir and Sweeneys Lane, hereby gives notice under section 208(2) of the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic) that the waters of the Loddon River between the Calder Highway bridge and the boat ramp at Sweeneys Lane are prohibited to all persons and vessels not registered to take part in the 2023 Australian Masters Water Ski Championships. The exclusion zone takes effect between 7:00am and 7:00pm from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 January 2023.

BY ORDER OF LODDON SHIRE COUNCIL 23 December 2022

DECLARATION OF BOATING ACTIVITY EXEMPTION

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

For the purpose of conducting the 2023 Australian Masters Water Ski Championships to be held from Friday 27 January to Sunday 29 January 2023 between the hours of 7:00am to 7:00pm, participants are exempt as follows: State Rules made under the Marine Act 1988

1. Clause 2(a) – 5 knots within 50 metres of a person in the water.

2. Clause 2(c) – 5 knots within 50 metres of another vessel.

Waterway Rules made under the Marine Act 1988

3. Clause 62.2 of Schedule 62 – 5 knot speed restriction within waters not speci ed as Exclusive Use and Special Purpose Areas between Flour Mill Weir and Sweeney’s Lane.

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

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

Marine Safety Regulations 2012

6. Regulation 103 – person being towed must wear a PFD at all times.

7. Regulation 104(1) – master must not allow the vessel to be operated unless each person onboard wears a PFD.

8. Regulation 104(2) – master must not allow the vessel to tow a person unless the person is wearing a PFD.

EXEMPTION CONDITIONS 

Masters of participating vessels are only exempt from items 1 & 2 when undertaking rescue responsibilities to retrieve persons in distress, provide for their initial medical or other needs and deliver them to a place of safety on shore. 

Masters of participating vessels are only exempt from items 3-5 for the duration of the events. 

Water skiers are only exempt from item 6 when participating in trick skiing activities. 

Temporary Road Closure –Godfrey Street – Wedderburn

The following road in Wedderburn will be closed to through tra c from Monday 16th January 2023 for culvert replacement works:

 Godfrey Street, Wedderburn (300 m East from Calder Highway at Nardoo Creek)

It is expected that the road will be closed for 8 weeks. Council apologises for any inconvenience, the completion of these works will provide a connection over the creek when it is in ood.

Justin ‘JJ’ Mulquiny

Great mate to us all.

We will miss the stories, banter and good times. Your endless knowledge and debating skills on all subjects known to man - especially cricket and politics. Your loyalty, friendship and sense of humour. We won’t ever forget your smile or happy demeanour.

You will be greatly missed JJ.

Steve & Kath, Yole & Mad, Goodo & Kristen and families

Any further changes to the closure will be advised through Council’s Facebook page.

Masters of participating vessels are only exempt from items 6,7 & 8 when towing water skiers who are participating in trick events, and when retrieving waters skiers who are participating in trick events and exempt from wearing a personal otation device. 

All persons on vessels associated with the event, or participants performing acts which are not ‘Trick’ events, must wear PFDs at all times. 

Should vessels or persons not involved in the event enter the exclusion zone, the event must be stopped until the unauthorised vessel or person has moved outside of the zone. 

These exemptions apply between 27 January and 29 January 2023 between hours of 7:00am and 7:00pm, to persons and vessels registered to participate in the 2023 Australian Masters Water Ski Championships on the Loddon River, within the exclusion zone waters between the Calder Highway Bridge and the boat ramp at Sweeneys Lane, provided the stated safety controls and undertakings detailed in the application form and associated documentation are adhered to.

BY ORDER OF LODDON SHIRE COUNCIL 23 December 2022

Seeking information on flood damage to waterways

As flood repair work continues across the region, the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is assessing damage done to local waterways and the assets built to protect and enhance them.

For the past 25 years, the CMA has been working alongside farmers and community groups to improve the condition of rivers such as the Campaspe and Loddon, as well as wetlands of international significance.

Major waterway erosion, river breakaways, and scouring are the highest priority after the floods.

Our first task is to assess the damage and prioritise remediation works. Once we have a clearer picture of the damage, we’ll develop and implement waterwayrelated restoration works, subject to funding.

We need your help to identify where extensive damage has occurred. We’re keen to hear from landholders who have noticed significant erosion or damage to waterway fencing and revegetation.

We have established a register to help identify priority locations for repair.

To register damage please scan the QR code, go to www.bit.ly/cmarepair or call on 03 5448 7124.

Connecting rivers, landscapes, people F30860

THAN k S

We would like to put a big thank you out to the emergency services, hospitals, our friends and familes and to our great supporting communities for your, love, support, prayers and offers of help since Tyson’s massive asthma attack on New Year’s Day.

Tyson has come a long way since that dreadful day, every day, he is improving, but he still has a long road ahead for his recovery, his determination to get better has really helped him.

We have been reading your messages of best wishes and support to him, which he loves and are helping him in his recovery.

We would like to make a special thank you to our local Wedderburn ambulance members who attended on the day, Glen Thompson, we don’t know where to start in thanking you for saving our boy’s life and your continual support and care for Tyson, checking up on his progress and sending him get well wishes, you are one of a kind glen, you deserve a medal and also Lyn Gonder for being by Glen’s side, helping him help our grandson - you guys are an asset to our community; the ambulance crews who came to Tyson and the MICA unit who kept him alive to Bendigo Health ICU, you guys rock, not only do you care for Tyson in a beautiful way, but also your support towards us, our many friends, which we can’t name as we will miss someone, but you know who you are and your kindness and help is much appreciated.

To Laurie, Ros and Owen (Swipe Pest Control) we appreciate you guys so much for giving Tyson a great work opportunity and believing in him, your support is appreciated. Leigh, Jenny and staff at Randall’s Foodworks, another one of Tyson’s employment places, your generosity towards us and your support towards Tyson, means a lot to us all; Steve and Kim from Wedderburn Produce and Garden, you guys are awesome and so caring, such kind hearted people; Jamie and Hazel (Whitmore Bus Group) you guys have no idea how happy you have made tyson, purchasing him a new phone to help him occupy himself and to be able to have contact with his friends and family, Thanks also to Tyson’s mates for their support of Tyson. We are so grateful for your kindness.

and Staff of Dingee Bush Nursing Centre extend sincere sympathy to the Baker family on the passing of our Life Member and Past Secretary.

Our heartfelt thanks

Manager Flood Recovery

The North Central Catchment Management Authority creates natural resource management partnerships and programs that deliver lasting change. We are currently seeking an engaging and motivated person to lead our Flood Recovery program.

The Manager Flood Recovery will drive our flood recovery response and deliver a program of natural resource management projects in collaboration with their team.

This is an exciting opportunity to improve the health of waterways, wetlands and biodiversity across our region through bringing together strategy, theory and practical implementation while working closely with the community, partners and Traditional Owner groups to deliver outcomes across our region.

This position is for a 12-months and has the flexibility to be full or part-time. We understand that life balance is an important part of our employees’ lives and offer a wide range of flexible arrangements.

For further information contact

Rachel Murphy

Executive Manager Program Delivery on 0468 524 907

Please note over the holiday period it may take us longer than usual to respond to queries.

For a copy of the position description or to apply, visit the Jobs and Tenders section of our website at www.nccma.vic.gov.au or contact

HRManager@nccma.vic.gov.au.

Applications will be accepted until 27 January and should include a covering letter, a resume, and address the key selection criteria.

The Loddon Plains Landcare Network is looking for a new team member to expand its capacity to deliver on-ground outcomes for its member groups across the Loddon Plains region. LPLN is seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated individual with potential and an openness and willingness to learn and grow in the role, or a person with some experience in on-ground project delivery in the NRM industry interested in developing a career in the natural environment.

Its mission is to secure healthy landscapes on the Loddon Plains through its Landcare, GOANNA landscape restoration project, and regenerative and sustainable agriculture programs, with a focus on delivering community-led large-scale landscape projects.

The Network is seeking a person to expand the LPLN team in the role of Landscape Projects officer offering a position between 19 (0.5) and 30 hours a week (0.8), with an option to extend the position subject to funding arrangements.

Position description available at lpln.org/employment-opportunities/

Inquiries: 0490 412 430 or lpln.facilitator@gmail.com

Applications addressing the Key Selection Criteria, a resume, together with the names and phone numbers of two referees should be submitted by email to: Mal Brown, Secretary/Treasurer

Loddon Plains Landcare Network Inc.

correspondence.lpln@gmail.com

Subject: Landscape Projects Officer, GOANNA Project Applications

2023 SEASON LODDON VALLEY DRAW

MAY 27

APRIL 1

Newbridge v Calivil

Inglewood v BL Serpentine Maiden Gully v Marong (N) Mitiamo v Bridgewater Pyramid Hill – bye

APRIL 8

EASTER BYE

APRIL 15

Calivil v Pyramid Hill BL Serpentine v Newbridge Marong v Inglewood Bridgewater v Maiden Gully Mitiamo – bye

APRIL 22

Pyramid Hill v BL Serpentine Newbridge v Marong Inglewood v Bridgewater Maiden Gully v Mitiamo Calivil – bye

APRIL 29

Marong v Pyramid Hill Bridgewater v Newbridge Mitiamo v Inglewood

BL Serpentine v Calivil Maiden Gully – bye

MAY 6

Pyramid Hill v Bridgewater Newbridge v Mitiamo Inglewood v Maiden Gully Calivil v Marong BL Serpentine – bye

MAY 13

Mitiamo v Pyramid Hill Maiden Gully v Newbridge Bridgewater v Calivil Marong v BL Serpentine Inglewood – bye

MAY 20

Maiden Gully v Pyramid Hill Newbridge v Inglewood Mitiamo v Calivil

BL Serpentine v Bridgewater Marong – bye

Pyramid Hill v Inglewood Calivil v Maiden Gully BL Serpentine v Mitiamo Bridgewater v Marong Newbridge – bye

JUNE 3

Pyramid Hill v Newbridge Inglewood v Calivil

Maiden Gully v BL Serpentine Mitiamo v Marong Bridgewater – bye

JUNE 10

KING’S BIRTHDAY WEEKEND BYE

JUNE 17

Calivil v Newbridge

BL Serpentine v Inglewood Marong v Maiden Gully Bridgewater v Mitiamo Pyramid Hill – bye

JUNE 24

Pyramid Hill v Calivil Newbridge v BL Serpentine Inglewood v Marong

Maiden Gully v Bridgewater Mitiamo – bye

JULY 1

BL Serpentine v Pyramid Hill Marong v Newbridge Bridgewater v Inglewood Mitiamo v Maiden Gully Calivil – bye

JULY 8

Pyramid Hill v Marong Newbridge v Bridgewater Inglewood v Mitiamo Calivil v BL Serpentine Maiden Gully – bye

JULY 15

Bridgewater v Pyramid Hill Mitiamo v Newbridge Maiden Gully v Inglewood Marong v Calivil BL Serpentine – bye

JULY 22

Pyramid Hill v Mitiamo Newbridge v Maiden Gully Calivil v Bridgewater BL Serpentine v Marong Inglewood – bye

JULY 29

Pyramid Hill v Maiden Gully Inglewood v Newbridge Calivil v Mitiamo Bridgewater v BL Serpentine Marong – bye

AUGUST 5

Inglewood v Pyramid Hill Maiden Gully v Calivil Mitiamo v BL Serpentine Marong v Bridgewater Newbridge – bye

AUGUST 12

Newbridge v Pyramid Hill Calivil v Inglewood

BL Serpentine v Maiden Gully Marong v Mitiamo Bridgewater – bye

AUGUST 19 AND 20

Elimination and qualifying finals AUGUST 26 AND 27 Semi-finals SEPTEMBER 2 Preliminary final SEPTEMBER 9 Grand final

Tight finishes for two rinks

INGLEWOOD played its first Friday night pennant match as hot weather saw matches rescheduled at the weekend.

Under lights for the last hour and the green at Bendigo East in excellent condition, Inglewood was unfortunately unable to match the home side in the Bendigo bowling area division one match.

Bendigo East ran out convincing winners by 35 shots. Two rinks had good tussles, losing by only two shots each.

A big game for this team next week as Inglewood tackles Kangaroo Flat who are equal second last with Inglewood.

Whoever wins this is in a prime position to keeps themselves in the hunt for a favourable ladder position by the end of the season.

Inglewood division five had an outstanding win against Castle-

maine and on Castlemaine’s synthetic green too.

Some of Inglewood’s inexperienced bowlers, who had never played on a synthetic Green before, acquitted themselves very well and impressed the division one bowlers there to watch and encourage them.

Won’t mention any individual team scores as it was a very good overall team performance with all rinks winning by good margins. The margins were 10 shots, 11 shots, 13 shots and 20 shots.

MIXED PAIRS

Wedderburn’s Laurie Witham and Sandra Steel took out the North Central bowls playing area mixed pairs title at the weekend. They finished one shot ahead of Boort’s Shayne Morris and Charlton’s Lynne Southwell. In the final played at Wedderburn, the local pair won 14-3 to 13-0.

PENNANT RESULTS

BENDIGO

Division 1 – Bendigo East 91-18 d Inglewood 56-0. L Graham, J Clough, J McGillivray, M Smith (s) d D Vanston, C Kelly, L Kelly, W Roberts (s) 19-17. B Edwards, C McKean, T Matthews, D Burgess (s) d B McClymont, D Rowe, J Nevins, M McLean (s) 31-10. N Belt, B Griffin, A Cullen, A Tonkins (s) d D Garrett, J Jackman, G Jackson, R Day (s) 24-14. I Bayliss, B Probert, P Vlaeminck, D Keenan (s) d M Chamberlain, D Wilson, G Wilson, I Chamberlain (s) 17-15.

Inspiration from a respected trainer

INGLEWOOD Riding Club member’s Karin Iob, Jackie Grant, Linda Watson and Rachael Hecker, attended a horsemanship clinic in Elmore on Sunday.

They went to watch Warwick Schiller, one of the most wellknown and respected horse trainers.

Club president Karin Iob said that Schiller grew up in Australia but now lived in the United States.

“Being able to see him nearby was a real treat,” she said.

“People might be surprised to learn that much of what Warwick teaches relates to people. Often, he talks about philosophers, psychologists and human biology in his teachings, to create a deeper

Points shared in abandoned round

SATURDAY’S Loddon Valley Tennis Association round was abandoned because of high temperatures.

Each club received 2.5 points with Dingee still three clear on top of the ladder.

LADDER

Dingee 31

Serpentine 28

Calivil North 24 Mincha West 23

Yarrawalla 22

Raywood 13.5 Lake Meran 12.5 Calivil 6

understanding of how everything is interconnected.

“Something as simple as being present and mindful is so important, not only with horses but with people and in our everydaytasks.

An Ex-ellent start to year

BOORT – the oldest club in Victoria still in operation - commenced 2023 with an exciting afternoon of racing on the New Year’s Day public holiday.

Horsham owner/trainer Janet Exell’s most honest 8Y0 Allawart Ray-Chantivari gelding Show Me The Moolah was an easy victor of the Victorian Olive Groves (David Young) The Northern Oasis Trotters Handicap over 2250 metres.

With regular reinsman David Murphy in the sulky, Show Me The Moolah stepped cleanly from a daunting 30-metre handicap to settle four back along the

markers as Count Eyre led from barrier three. The race was to change significantly in the last lap when the leader galloped allowing Christmas Babe which had moved from three pegs to race exposed approaching the bell to dash clear with Show Me The Moolah in hot pursuit joining him on the home turn.

Cruising to the front on straightening, Show Me The Moolah scored by 8.6 metres in a mile rate of 2-04.1 over Christmas Babe, with Get Smart Max third 4.1 metres away after trailing the pacemaker.

- LEN BAKER

Ladder: Moama 168, South Bendigo 166, Bendigo 166, Golden Square 135, Bendigo East 131, Eaglehawk 117, Castlemaine 82, Kangaroo Flat 72, Inglewood 72, Marong 61. Division 3 – Serpentine 69-4 lost to Strathfieldsaye 91-14. W Gladman, G Addlem, B Long, R Gladman (s) lost to J Smith, V Sabaliauskas, J COllings, T Featherstone (s) 18-25. K Canfield, R Hasty, D Walker, D Anset (s) d P Hingston, R Smith, U Oper, G Etherton (s) 20-19. S Rollison, F Maher, B Gladman, L Cadzow (s) lost to A Sumner, D Sargeant, D Huggard, T Probert (s) 12-31. B Catto, B Tuohey, J Stuart, N Tonkin (s) d B Jones, S Wild, T Phelan, L Cahoon (s) 19-16.

Ladder: North Bendigo 123, South Bendigo 114, Strathfieldsaye 101, Kangaroo Flat 89, Bendigo East 70, Heathcote 57, Bendigo 48, Serpentine 46. Division 5 – Castlemaine 50-0 lost to Inglewood 104-18. V Passalaqua, G McClure, I Devereaux, P McKnight (s) lost to P Kelly, D Andrew, B Taig, J McClymont (s) 16-26. D Barnett, P Devereaux, R Fleury, P Fraser (s) lost to G Sommers, K Stewart, V Tierney, D Whitehead (s) 14-25. R Lynas, P Rotteveel, L McClure, P O’Shea (s) lost to P Lyndon, T Schill, H Leech, I Bradley (s) 1124. S Grant, S Phillips, J Smith, N Hufer (s) lost to R Stranger, T Birthisel, A Noonan, A Harrison (s) 9-29.

Dingee 71-4 lost to Kangaroo Flat 94-14. K Pollock, M Grieves, K Murphy, F Grieves (s) d R Sparke, T Hurford, J Friswell, J Grant (s) 18-17. A Hay, J Monaghan, R Robertson, B Lawry (s) d W Caine, K Lawlor, B Hansen, K Packer (s) 23-20. T Kavanagh, L Hocking, B West, N Lister (s) lost to M Crow, K Sparke, J Ritchie, J Griffiths (s) 23-24. G Clarke, A Sproull, Lyn Demeo, Leo Demeo (s) lost to W Wigmore, B Cullen, D Martin, D Densley (s) 7-33.

Calivil won on forfeit from Campbells Creek.

Ladder: Inglewood 121, Marong 116, Calivil 111, Kangaroo Flat 102, Castlemaine 62, Dingee 46, Strathfieldsaye 45, Campbells Creek 45.

Division 6 – Harcourt 97-15 d Bridgewater 72-3. A Manallack, R Williams, D Jeffries, R Maltby (s) lost to G Catto, F Shea, R Brown, G Managan (s) 22-23. J Starbuck, L Harding, J Grant, T Robinson (s) d P Gath, D Grant, A Harrison, B Oughtred (s) 34-10. W Chaplin, T Carr, C McAuliffe, K Tribe (s) d C Mangan, B Bajada, N Saunders, J Fagan (s) 24-21. D Marsh, R Douglas, D Bird, D Cunningham (s) drew V Wilson, C Brooshooft, P Short, R Smith (s) 18-18.

Ladder: Harcourt 119, Kangaroo Flat 107, South Bendigo 104, Woodbury 99, Bendigo 93, White Hills 55, Bridgewater 53, Marong 18.

Division 1 – Kangaroo Flat 67-14 d Inglewood 55-2. S Howard, L Troy, D Budd, T Babitsch (s) lost to M Chamberlain, B Taig, I Chamberlain, L Witham (s) 18-20. G Howes, R Short, S Howes, E White (s) d B McClymont, R Gallagher, V Tierney, L Kelly (s) 25-18. L Hardingham, B Waegeli, B Hogan, P Moller (s) d P Lyndon, H Leech, A Caserta, R Day (s) 24-17.

Division 4 – Harcourt 47-2 lost to Dingee 71-14. J Starbuck, V Matlby, K Grant, C McAuliffe (s) lost to N Thomas, J Monaghan, Leo Demeo, Lyn Demeo (s) 12-30. S Oxley, F Harman, F Corstorphan, H Braid (s) d G Clarke, V Sproull, K Murphy, M Grieves (s) 24-20. F Collins, R Douglas, K Francis, J Ewing (s) lost to A Hay, P Plant, B West, F Grieves (s) 11-21.

Campbells Creek 55-14 d Calivil-Serpentine 49-2. L Dowler, J Harding, H Wilson, R Droney (s) lost to R Boyd, H Miles, L Gronow, C Maxted (s) 13-18. M Matheson, M Harding, J Leech, J Hall (s) d J Wiltshire, H Gronow, K Richards, D Walker (s) 17-15. K Gallagher, C Gallagher, M Rhodes, M Holland (s) d I Mansbridge, L Lister, N Ralphs, C Mitchell (s) 25-16.

Ladder: South Bendigo 136, Golden Square 94, White Hills 89, Dingee 80, Calivil-Serpentine 71, Harcourt 70, Campbells Creek 52, Bendigo VRI 48.

Division 5 – Eaglehawk 40-12 d Inglewood 38-2. G Fitzpatrick, J Costello, J Rohan, J Fitzpatrick (s) lost to E Patterson, P McEwan, D Garrett, D Whitehead (s) 13-21. G Tewartha, J McQualter, J Daniel, D Power (s) d J Roberts, D Andrew, A Harrison, P Kelly (s) 27-17.

Bendigo East 53-14 d Bridgewater 35-0. E Johnson, J Watts, J Logan, C Findlay (s) d D Smith, B Gath, R Shea, M Wright (s) 29-12. E Fuller, M Pysing, B Fuller, W Schmidt (s) d J Oughtred, B Catto, G Harrison, B Oughtred (s) 24-23.

Ladder: South Bendigo 97, Inglewood 93, White Hills 86, Strathfieldsaye 79, Bendigo East 62, Bridgewater 53, Bendigo 50, Eaglehawk 39.

NORTH CENTRAL

Division 1 - Wedderburn won on forfeit from Boort.

Ladder: Wycheproof 109, Wedderburn 98, Donald Golf 96, St Arnaud 78, St Arnaud Country 60, Charlton 36, Donald 32, Boort 19.

Division 2 – Wedderburn won on forfeit from Boort.

Ladder: St Arnaud Country 94, Wycheproof 92, Donald Golf 84, Wedderburn 70, Donald 60, St Arnaud 54, Boort 53, Charlton 21.

MIdweek - St Arnaud 78-12 d Boort 62-0. H Stevenson, M McRae, G Shinners, C Marchment (s) d L Gardner, P Baker, J Maxted, L Maxted (s) 25-15. T Robertson, S Sorraghan, D Goddard, P McRae d P Gould, A Gould, D Gibson, T Moresi (s) 26-24. L Arbuckle, D Ostarcevic, S McIntyre, T Amos (s) Y Cashen, G Tweddle, T Noles, J Gibson (s) 27-23.

St Arnaud Country 61-2 lost to Wedderburn 76-10. Y Nevill, E McDonald, P Goode, J Neville (s) lost to H Stephenson, S Steel, N White, L Witham (s) 19-33. D Fullarton, Y Templar, K Meade, H Esmore (s) lost to R Witham, R Little, R Hall, I Hall (s) 21-25. F Rodger, S Wright, R :Pole, D Moulday (s) d G Hunter, L Standfield, J Murnane, A Roberts (s) 21-18.

Ladder: Wedderburn 82, St Arnaud 72, Donald 66, Boort 65, Wycheproof 63, Charlton 58, Donald Golf 40, St Arnaud Country 34.

NORTHERN

play under heat rule

“However, we often find this hard to do in the busy lives we lead today,” Karin said.

Club members are brimming with ideas and inspiration after the clinic and are looking forward to putting them into practice.

Jackie Grant, Warwick Schiller, Linda Watson, Rachael Hecker and Karin Iob.

Trio keeps rolling with decades of enthusiasm Queens of the green

By CHRIS EARL

They also had to wear stockings and a hat to be allowed on the bowling green.

Almost half a century later, Phyllis, 92, is still polishing bowls for weekly pennant encounters.

It was 48 years ago that Phyllis finally walked through the gate at Inglewood Bowls Club.

“At the time, I was often being asked to play and I kept saying no. Then I said to myself, it’s either yes or they will stop asking,” said Phyllis. “Everyone welcomed me with open arms.”

The nonagenarian is one-third of the club’s reversed trio of veterans with their names on honour boards charting successes over the decades.

The younger Edna Patterson, turning 85 tomorrow, took up the game before Phyllis and has been part of the club for more than 55 years.

She was a nationally-accredited umpire whose major appointments were the Commonwealth Youth Games in Bendigo in 2004 and the Victorian Open soon after.

Former Inglewood and District

Health Services’ cook Joan Roberts, 87, only got hooked on lawn bowls just under two decades ago.

“I thought I would give it a go ... my husband (Ian) had died a few years earlier and socially, bowls has been a lifesaver,” she said.

Edna followed in her mother’s footsteps as a bowler and has rarely missed a pennant game. The family connection is equally to the forefront for Phyllis and Joan when talking about their life in bowls.

Phyllis’ daughters Pam Kelly and Vicki Tierney also play with Inglewood where son-in-law Lindsay Kelly is club secretary.

Joan’s sons Wade and Mark also bowl at Inglewood.

Edna, Phyllis and Joan have had their time in division one but now enjoy playing in division five, leaving the more intense competition to younger members.

“For a little club, we do pretty well,” said Edna.

Phyllis adds: “For five years we made the grand final in division five and last year was the first time we won. There was one year we lost by a single shot.”

As the elder of the veteran trio,

Phyllis said she had not been too keen on approaching the grand age of 90.

“Coming up to the 90th birthday, I couldn’t come to terms with that big number. Once I got there, everything was different and I am still here bowling,” said the former president, secretary and three-time club champion.

And Edna quickly chimes in: “And she still puts down a good bowl.”

Phyllis continues: “I’m playing it by ear and hope I will be around a little while yet!”

Joan, who once partnered with Phyllis to win the club pairs, has been a great help with catering

around the club. And she’s quick to say what makes a good afternoon tea: “Home-made cakes and sponges.”

When Edna started bowls, each lady had to bring a platefour plates of nourishment on each table ready to be consumed during the break.

The trio is proud that Inglewood’s midweek pennant team still gives selection preference to ladies “and fill in with men” after Bowls Victoria opened all pennant competitions to both sexes.

“It helped smaller clubs but you go to other clubs and see the women sitting out (of the team),” Edna said.

Phyllis, however, remembers a round of applause from members when the state body decreed in the 1990s that women no longer had to wear stockings.

“And a couple of years later they said we didn’t have to wear a hat ... in today’s climate that seems strange,” she said as the temperature headed into the high 30s last week.

“Dresses ... there would be very few lady bowlers who would own one today.”

The love of bowls still gathers momentum for Enda, Phyllis and Joan. “We love it,” the trio said as they eye more success.

PHYLLIS McEwan took up lawn bowls when women had to wear dresses with the hem 38cm from the ground.

Grandson Craig Kelly is taking the connection into the next generation.

Phyllis McEwan, Edna Patterson and Joan Roberts ... spritely in life and bowls.

LH PHOTO

Phyllis McEwan

Edna Patterson

Joan Roberts

Next crop takes to court coaching

FOUNDATIONS for an exciting junior tennis team emerged on the lawn courts in Wedderburn last week.

The town’s tennis club had a two-day clinic with more than 20 youngsters being introduced to the finer points of the game by Giant Tennis coach Brandt Fleming.

Secretary Sarah Turnbull was a driver of the initiative, hoping to see her children continue the family tradition of playing the sport.

Sarah’s efforts were praised by president Susie Lockhart. “Like so many around here, Sarah’s family is a tennis family that loves the sport.”

Lockhart said teaching youngsters was the future of the club and the sport in the area.

“We haven’t had a junior competition in the Inglewood asso-

ciation for the last couple of seasons,” she said.

“The club felt there was a need to get interest going. We want these children to be the future of the game.

“In two year’s time, we think we can have a junior team on the court.

“They might be young but they will be learning the game, the rules and the etiquette of tennis.”

Lockhart said playing sport gave youngsters good skills for life and also brought families and communities together.

The push for greater junior involvement and reversing the decline in participation had to come through effort, Lockhart said. “We have to make change happen.”

Lockhart said there had been a “general lull” in junior sport participation but “we can fix it”.

Many of last week’s clinic participants had already had a solid introduction to tennis.

They have been with their parents at Saturday association matches, usually on the playground.

“Things for juniors have been at a bit of a standstill the last couple of years but the clinic shows there are quite a few around that can be the future,” Lockhart said.

Last week’s successful Wedderburn clinic was the second in the Loddon this season.

Marong association conducted a five-week clinic late last year that also attracted dozens of youngsters.

And Bendigo-based Giant Tennis is this year bringing weekly coaching sessions to both Wedderburn and Marong.

The sessions will run during school term.

Lara Polkinghorne (right) takes a break from clinic drills to spend time with Liam Kerr. LH PHOTO

Albert Postle puts his all into the two-day clinic. LH PHOTO

Blake Collins shows focus for the future. LH PHOTO

Mia Collins takes her turn in a tennis drill. LH PHOTO

Heath Polkinghorne and Tommy McNally get tips from Brandt Fleming. LH PHOTO

Tennis clinic coach Brandt Fleming takes Lucy Turnbull through a skills exercise on returning play from the net during the two-day clinic in Wedderburn. LH PHOTO

21 overs to seal top spot shuffle

KINGOWER has put itself into Upper Loddon premiership favouritism after a stirring 21 overs at the batting crease.

Opener Matt Rowe and skipper Braydon Welsh led the home team in its chase to pass 116 hit by Wedderburn.

Welsh, who had a career-best 133 in the pre-break round, joined Rowe when Adam Postlecaught Will Deason off a Will Holt delivery and the score was just 18.

Rowe and Welsh went on to enjoy a 67-run partnership before the opener was dismissed for 54 off 53 deliveries.

Welsh did the bulk of scoring for the remainder of the innings and was well supported by Kyle Simpson.

Tom Kirk was the best of Wedderburn’s bowlers with two wickets.

The 21.3 overs were enough to overtake Wedderburn, Kingower declaring on 130 when Simpson was stumped by Louis Holt after a delivery from Ben Huismann his first appearance for Wedderburn on Saturday.

It was Huismann’s first match in eight years, last taking the field with Carisbrook in the Maryborough association.

Wedderburn had been sent into bat first and opener Tom Kirk made an immediate impression with a boundary off a Jayden Leach ball.

Patner Louis Holt contented himself with ones and twos when facing Simpson’s first over but was soon dismissed when caught by Tom Nunn in slips.

Moments later Welsh and Simpson combined to dismiss Will Holt and Wedderburn was 2-16.

Isaac Holt looked to inject momentum into play with a boundary from his second ball faced.

He would hit five fours - one dropping just a metre short of the boundary - before caught next ball by Lachlan DeJong and dismissed for 21.

It was a similar fate for Kirk who joined the run chase with boundaries before caught straight after by Murphy, the first time he had been dismissed this season.

Wedderburn was sitting on 5-55 and in all sorts of trouble on the small Kingower ground where boundaries have been plentiful this season.

Brad Holt, Matt Lockhart and Huismann batted with respectability to see Wedderburn reach 116 in its 35 overs.

But it would prove to be too

low a target to defend when Kingower started its chase.

The result has put Kingower on top of the ladder and the quartet of Welsh, Rowe, Simpson and Leach ranked among the association’s best players on the bowling and batting averages.

Kingower has the oportunity to extend that lead this Saturday when again at home, this time to Bridgewater.

The result from this match could influence the run into finals. The Bulls need a will to stay in touch with the top four and steadily build on the improvement already shown this season.

Boort Yando will play Wedderburn, both sides now chasing their first win of the new year.

KINGOWER d WEDDERBURN WEDDERBURN

TW Kirk c T Murphy b L McNeil 21 L Holt c T Nunn b J Leach 6 W Holt c B Welsh b K Simpson 1 I Holt c J Leach b L DeJong 21 B Holt b M Rowe 22 J Vander-Wetering c & b L DeJong 0 M Lockhart not out 18 B Huismann c & b J Leach 14 F Turnbull not out 1

Extras 12 Total 7/116

Bowling: J Leach 7-1-2-25, K Simpson 7-11-25, L McNeil 6-0-1-18, L DeJong 7-2-215, T Nunn 5-1-0-17, M Rowe 3-0-1-10.

KINGOWER

M Rowe c L Holt b TW Kirk 54 W Deason c A Postle b W Holt 4 B Welsh not out 50 J Leach c TW Kirk b F Turnbull 1 K Simpson st L Holt b B Huismann 18

Extras 3 Total 4/130

Bowling: A Postle 6-0-0-29, W Holt 5-01-40, TW Kirk 5-2-1-20, I Holt 3-0-0-17, F Turnbull 2-0-1-18, B Huismann 0.3-0-1-5.

Kyle Simpson (Kingower) 54 8 185 16 4/10 11.56 20.25

Fergus Bear (Boort Yando) 49 3 225 16 5/49 14.06 18.38

Tom McKinley (Bridgewater) 42 6 123 14 5/22 8.79 18.00

Jayden Leach (Kingower) 49 14 105 11 2/1 9.55 26.73

Lachlan DeJong 40 3 150 11 3/16 21.82 3.75

Batting averages

M NO HS Runs Av

Braydon Welsh (Kingower) 7 2 133* 375 75.00

Harry McKinley (Bridgewater) 6 1 61* 172 34.40

Phil Scholes (Arnold) 7 0 77 189 24.14 Matthew Rowe (Kingower) 7 0 54 169 63.10

Redbacks sweep pitch ‘under par’

BOORT Yando captain Jarrod Hodoras predicted a tight finish when players broke for afternoon tea at Arnold on Saturday, The visitors had hit 200 in what the skipper said was a ‘par score’.

Harry Weaver had brought up his half-century in just 21 balls and went on to survive two field drops, hitting 10 fours and two sixes, before bowled for 71 by Henry McCullough.

Will Gould also found the boundary before becoming one of five scalps in the innings for Redbacks’ Ryan Metelmann.

For Weaver, Metelmann was the only Arnold pace attack he did not face. “The way Ryan was bowling, I hadn’t fancied facing his deliveries anyway,” Weaver said, admitting that he felt his game had lost momentum after

the drinks break. The Boort tail sought to emulate Weaver with Harry Malone and Drew Crilly both bringing up boundaries from their first balls faced.

Arnold put in its most solid performance of the season to overtake Boort with just two overs to spare and for the loss of only three wickets.

McCullough and Cam Dale took the Redbacks to victory, hitting 22 runs between them in the final 2.3 overs. Phil Scholes, Metelmann and Michael Dale had earlier set up the victory with solid knocks, Scholes top scoring with 60.

Boort also conceded 10 extras with the ball, Fergus Bear returning the best bowling figures.

ARNOLD d BOORT YANDO BOORT YANDO

lbw R Metelmann

Kyle Simpson claimed one wicket on Saturday with the ball ... enough to retain his lead in the season’s bowling averages. LH PHOTO

Wedderburn’s Will Holt

Arnold opener Phil Scholes starts a top-scoring innings for the Redbacks and sets up victory at home on Saturday. LH PHOTO

Loddon HERALD sport

FIELD RETURN

CLUBS PLOTTING WINTER ASSAULT

FOOTBALL clubs are gearing up for a football season that starts in less than three months.

Loddon Valley league released its draw to clubs just on Christmas.

The league has slated an April 1 start followed by the Easter break. Pyramid Hill will have a delayed start to the season having been allocated the round one bye.

The Bulldogs’ opening clash is on April 15 - an away game against Calivil - the same day the enlarged North Central league kicks off with new club Nullawil playing Birchip Watchem.

Big-recruiting Boort is one North Central club off to a flyer with a season launch for players this Sunday.

New coach Dale Cameron has recruited big names since his appointment three months ago.

Sunday’s the run at Boort Park will be the first time the team has been together ahead of full preparation for the season.

Meanwhile, Newbridge president Andrew Friswell said progress over the next month planning recovery from October’s flood damage at its recreation reserve base would determine when the Maroons host their first home match of Loddon Valley season. The Maroons are drawn to host Calivil in the opening round and Marong in round three.

Friswell said the club, recreation reserve committee and Loddon Shire were working to establish a timeline for the oval’s use.

“The progress we’re making would not have been possible without council,” he said.

“We are applying for grants and waiting to know the final shortfall and how much repairs and replacement will cost ... there will be a shortfall though,” he said.

Mean Machine loses Collins

WITHIN hours of speculation emerging at the weekend, confirmation came that Bridgewater gun Andrew Collins is heading back to the Bendigo league this season.

Collins, a former premiership coach of the Mean Machine, lined up in 16 games in 2022 to kick 54 goals and be named in the best eight times.

Mean Machine momentum took the side into the Loddon Valley grand final where a dominant Marong won by 94 points.

Sandhurst confirmed earlier

this week that Collins will return to the Dragon’s Den where he last played after taking Bridgewater to successive flags in 2014 and 2015.

Meanwhile, Bridgewater this week announced its under 18 coaches will be Harry McKinley and Nick Naughton.

Bridgewater is one of four confirmed clubs in the new AFL Central Victoria under 18 competition. Loddon Valley has stepped back from junior football with existing clubs committing to the AFL format.

Heat on bats

BOORT Yando’s Harry Malone fell to the sizzling bowling of Ryan Metelmann when the Arnold star burnt through batsman in Saturday’s hot return from the break in Upper Loddon cricket.

Malone showed some early swashbuckling aggression with eight runs off five balls.

But Metelmann sent the next delivery straight through middle stump and dispatched Malone back to the shade. Metelmann ended with an impressive five wickets and conceded just 13 runs in his seven-over stint with the ball.

REPORTS, SCOREBOARDS - PAGE 23

LH PHOTO