Loddon Herald 21 March 2024

Loddon is one of five network groups established over the past 18 months connecting the next generation of farmers. “The ball was a great night to be networking with like-minded rural people,” said Gus.

“It was fabulous to see such a diverse group of people meeting others. Loddon is one of our most-engaged groups and Bridgewater Hotel proved a great spot to host the first network ball,” she said. “We wanted engagement and the function achieved that.”

DARCY Gervasoni and Mysia’s Gus Gould jumped at expanding rural networks when more than

ple

Birchip Cropping Group’s Demi Taylor said plans were already being made to take the annual event to other

Loddon HERALD

Free every Thursday

Kristen goes solo at gallery

LAKE Boga artist Kristen Cowland has launched her first solo exhibition at Wedderburn’s Coach House Gallery.

Kristen says painting acrylic helps her tap into “creativity in an intuitive way”. Her exhibition of 18 works on display for six weeks range from

landscapes and nature to selfportraits and birds.

One of the paintings, Kookaburra Magic, took out first prize at last month’s art competition and exhibition in Lake Boga, Kristen said she had found acrylic intriguing and exciting, joining an online group to grow

and explore the medium and challenge herself.

The gallery’s Margaret Bentley said a series of regular exhibitions was again being planned.

“We are always happy to connect with artists looking for exhibition space,” she said. “Our visitors love the art works.”

IN BRIEF

Holding court

TICKETS have been snapped up for the Women of Wedderburn Night featuring former tennis ace Jelena Dokic next month. Tickets to the Inglewood and Districts’ Health Service evening were allocated within days of bookings opening. Dokic will speak on her best-selling autobiography Unbreakable. People still hoping to attend are being added to a waiting list.

Screen time

EYES will be on television screens in the next few weeks when segments featuring Loddon communities and tourist attractions will be featured on TV show Dipper’s Destinations. Host Robert DiPierdomenico visited the Loddon last year to film the segments on local history, gold, nature and personalities.

Party president

JOANNE Armstrong will become president of the Victorian National Party after the party’s state conference in May in Bendigo. The former Ararat mayor will succeed Neil Pankhurst.

Fast cars

EDDINGTON will host the 39th vintage and historic car sprint races on Saturday. Playfair Street will be closed for races throughout the day. Send your local news to loddonherald@gmail.com

Coach House Gallery’s Margaret Bentley admires one of Kristen Cowland’s works. LH PHOTO

GMW pulls plug on office

GOULBURN Murray Water will walk from Pyramid Hill by August.

The State Government-owned water business will close its customer service office in June and the works depot two months later.

GMW says the closures will improve its efficiency.

The Pyramid Hill customer service centre has been an appointment-only centre since 2022.

“This transition will not impact our commitment to delivering exceptional customer service across the West Area footprint,” said water delivery Services general manager Warren Blyth.

“Customers will continue to receive high-level face-to-face service from our team based at our Kerang customer service centre.”

GMW says it has continued to see a significant decrease in foot traffic in its regional customer service centres in recent years.

“Even with the easing of coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions, the number of people attending our offices is less than pre-2020,” Mr Blyth said.

“With improvements in tech-

nology, staff have been able to head straight to the field to meet a customer without needing to visit or meet at a GMW office.”

The Pyramid Hill works depot will close mid-August 2024 and the site will be sold.

Mr Blyth said the Pyramid Hill office had been averaging two or three appointments a week depending on the time of year.

“Over the past six months GMW has been liaising with staff and other key stakeholders about

the decision to close the Pyramid Hill office and depot.

“Letters were sent to all customers last week advising of the change, ahead of the June 28 closure.

“The changes are not about reducing staff numbers. The team will continue to operate at current staffing levels.

“Customers can continue to book an appointment via phone or email to organise a team member to visit them at their farm.

Closure of GMW sites in Pyramid Hill comes less than a year after Bendigo Bank ripped up its agency agreement with Mark Lacey and left town.

Pyramid Hill is also one of three northern Loddon towns without a permanent police officer. Police from other towns in the shire are covering Pyramid Hill, Boort and Serpentine with Victoria Police last week saying the Pyramid Hill vacancy was “in the process” of being advertised.

Closure sign of hollowing out, says irrigator

KEN Pattison says the closure of GMW’s Pyramid Hill office and depot was another sign of the water industry hollowing out.

The Fernihurst farmer said contraction of presence in irrigation district communities meant the loss “of intellectual horsepower needed in running a system”.

Mr Pattison said he received notification

of the closure from GMW on Monday in “a sign of the hollowing out of support we used to have”.

“There used to be 15 people in Pyramid Hill. The system is less reliable and it looks like we’re on a hiding to nothing,” he said.

“And by the time we lose water under Tanya Pliberseck’s latest buybacks, GMW water

will be nothing more than a headworks company offering online forms to fill in if people are suitably technologically savvy.”

Terrick Ward councillor Dan Straub said the closure of the Pyramid Hill depot was disappointing, taking people out of the town. Locals also said they had noticed less activity since the office became by appointment

National eucy day

NATIONAL Eucalyptus Day will be celebrated on Saturday with free entry to Inglewood’s Eucalyptus Distillery Museum. The day aims to raise awareness of eucalypts and celebrate the important place that they hold in the hearts and lives of Australians.

When bins come

THE Loddon’s newest container deposit scheme depot is asking people to limit returns. Pauline Wellman at Inglewood Caravan Park and Motel said new bins were delivered on Thursdays and were quickly filling. She says returns should not be made early in the week as they could not be accepted. Other depots at Boort and Wedderburn are also reaching capacity within hours of their weekly bin deliveries.

Insurance probe

HOUSE of representatives

Standing Committee on Economics has announced new public hearings as part of its inquiry into insurers’ responses to 2022 major floods claims. Victorian hearings in April will be in Melbourne, Rochester and Heathcote.

CPR training

CFA training sessions in CPR will be held in May at Jarklin, Rheola, Wedderburn, Inglewood, Pyramid Hill and Boort.

GMW’s office and depot in Pyramid Hill

Award spotlight increases awareness of lake trees

NATIONAL recognition of the Lake Boort Scarred Trees Masterplan has triggered growing interest in the district’s indigenous history.

Melbourne engineer Gary Bateman and wife Julie are the latest to visit Boort after the masterplan received two gongs in the 2023 Australian Institute of Landscape Architecture awards.

He told Yung Balug Aboriginal Artefacts museum’s Paul Haw the visit to Boort had been prompted by the awards.

Loddon Shire Council was part of development of the masterplan in collaboration with Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Clans Corporation, Parks Victoria, First Peoples - State Relations and the North Central Catchment Management Authority.

The masterplan by landscape architects ASPECT studios received the institute’s award of excellence in the tourism category and was also named one of five winners of a regional achievement award.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Lake Boort is regarded as internationally significant and one of the most important existing Aboriginal cultural sites in Australia with more than 400 scarred trees in the vicinity of the lake, retaining scars from the cutting of bark to make canoes, shields, and carriers. The site is also known for the many mounds, cooking ovens, artefacts and ceremonial areas.

“The Yung Balug Clan has advocated for many years on the beauty and significance of their history and Cultural Heritage at Boort, now is the time to support them and the wider community of Boort to realise a long held dream to create a Visitor Experience of national significance here”, Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation CEO Rodney Carter said when the masterplan was released.

Parks Victoria committed to working in partnership with stakeholders on the future development the Lake Boort precinct of elements including signage, walking tracks and viewing points around the lake.

COMPLAINTS to Agriculture Victoria about animal management at Avicenna Farm were taken seriously, a spokesperson said last week.

Agriculture Victoria in January confirmed it was investigating complaints at the property on the Wimmera Highway near Newbridge.

“Agriculture Victoria is aware of the situation at Newbridge. All complaints received by the department are taken seriously and investigated in accordance with departmental procedures,” the spokesperson said.

Bushland immersion looms on the horizon

NATURE enthusiasts will immerse themselves in Loddon bushland for a weekend of discovery and workshops.

Wedderburn Conservation Management Network is planning the two-day experience starting at Glenalbyn next month,

Secretary Trudy Nelsson said participants would “embark on a journey of discovery ... from breathtaking views to cultural weaving workshops, nature walks, seed ball workshops, there’s something for everyone. come for one day or both.

“The weekend is a chance to immerse yourself in the lush greenery, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with the natural world.

“Our knowledgeable guides will lead people through hidden trails, pointing out unique flora and fauna along the way,” Trudy said.

“Anyone wishing to make a specific complaint can call Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or at aw.complaint@agriculture.vic. gov.au.”

The spokesperson did not confirm the current status of investigations. Agriculture Victoria says it “limits any comment in order not to jeopardise the outcome of any investigation”.

Information from Agriculture Victoria says: “The welfare of animals in Victoria is protected by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.

“The Victorian community expect that

animals will be treated with care and respect.

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

The 613-acre property has been listed by a Melbourne real estate agent to be auctioned next month with an indicative price between $2 million and $2.2 million. An adjoining property will also be auctioned.

Appeal legend recruits helper

ROYAL Children’s Hospital Good

Friday Appeal local co-ordinator Joe Watts has enlisted an equally passionate offsider to help plan Inglewood’s fundraising efforts this year.

Joe has notched up more than half a century collecting for the appeal, many spent as the lynchpin of Inglewood Fire Brigade efforts.

But a health scare late last year saw Joe ask fellow brigade member Elissa Wilson to share the workload.

“Joe’s a legend and when he asked, I couldn’t say no,” said Elissa.

The pair have already been out selling raffle tickets and are gearing up for another instalment of fundraising with the brigade’s Easter egg basket raffle.

Joe, who officially joined Inglewood brigade in 1972, was originally out driving the streets with teams of volunteers until Nigel Elston retired from coordinating the local effort and tapped Joe on the shoulder.

“There are many brigades active across Victoria supporting

the Royal Children’s Hospital appeal,” Joe said. “It’s a good cause and everyone wants to support it.”

His words are echoed by Elissa who says volunteers will be out on the streets collecting on Good Friday from 9am.

The pair said youngsters were

always among the first to put their hands up and join brigade members.

Joe and Elissa said the community had already been generous in their support of the raffles and and were sure the tins would be full again on Good Friday.

Council group makes flood recovery framework change its top priority

BETTER

frameworks for disaster recovery

funding have been made a priority by Murray River Group of Councils.

The six-member local government collective says it will take its case to bureaucrats in Melbourne and Canberra.

The group includes Loddon Shire that last month called out four layers of red tape for delaying approvals of recovery work from the October 2022 flood emergency.

“Sixteen months on from historic flooding across our region, we are still battling to receive promised funding to repair our roads and complete other vital works,” said the group’s new president and Gannawarra Mayor Ross Stanton after councils met for the first time in 2024 in Kerang this month.

“The group will keep making our case to

ministers and senior bureaucrats in Canberra and Melbourne whilst we get on with the job as best as we can.

“We agreed that we would renew our efforts to engage as a group with the relevant ministers and bureaucrats ... to get on and complete the repairs our communities require.

“Whilst we’re still working with our communities as we recover from these flood events, we need to be aware that planning now for the next flood event will strengthen our residents’ resilience.”

Loddon Shire has not had any flood recovery work approvals since last October.

Operations director Steve Phillips last month said council would be challenged to have all projects completed by the June 2025 deadline with more than 900 jobs to to get the bureaucratic tick.

“The appeal is a special time for everyone in the community to help the Royal Children’s Hospital,” they said.

This year’s appeal will also raise funds for major regional hospitals, including Bendigo, in a first for the Good Friday Appeal that started in 1931.

NBN starts boost work on towers

WORK started last week on upgrades to seven Loddon fixed wireless internet towers.

Seven towers at Wedderburn, Inglewood, Serpentine, Pyramid Hill, Boort and Korong Vale will be boosted to have faster speeds and extended coverage areas.

However, NBN Co said the works will mean “some homes and small businesses in the area may experience impact to their NBN service over the coming months”.

The broadband company said it was looking to minimise service interruptions by migrating users over to temporary connections.

“However there are occasions when towers may be taken offline and we appreciate the community’s patience while the work is underway. Impacted homes and businesses may have been notified of outages via their retail service provider.”

Works will not impact NBN fixed line users or NBN Sky Muster satellite services.

NBN Local Victoria head Emily Peel said: “We are excited to have begun work upgrading the NBN Fixed Wireless network in Loddon, which will be a game changer for up to a million households and businesses across Australia.

“After the tower works are completed, we expect that faster download speeds during the busy period will become available across the NBN fixed wireless network,” Ms Peel said on Monday.

Sharing the work in 2024 ... Joe Watts and Elissa Wilson. LH PHOTO

Writing the country vibe

LOU Green has found her happy place writing songs and making music in Serpentine.

From having her own music room for the first time to taking the stage at open-mic sessions at Jarklin’s Four Posts Hotel and Goldfields Music Club in Dunolly, Lou says her songs have a hint of comedy.

And that voice inspired by country singers Casey Chambers and the late Archie Roach headed north last night to share billing with Iceland’s Svavar Knútur and Australian folk duo The Maes when the Festival of Small Halls performed in Pyramid Hill Memorial Hall.

Living in Serpentine has given Lou the space to grow as a musician.

“I’ve always wanted to live out of town. Everything is better here and I can breathe again,” Lou said.

“In Bendigo, I had to to share my two passions in the one room - music and pool. Now I have my own room just for music - my happy place.

“When I get home, I grab the guitar, start singing and all of a sudden everything is better.”

Lou, who happens to be the leading female player in Bendigo’s pool competition, says her music flourished during COVID lockdowns.

“I had mucked around with guitars for a long time, then just before lockdown I get a new guitar and haven’t looked back since.” she said.

“I had a phobia about facing a microphone but there are amaz-

ingly supportive people who have helped.

“Ken Ritchie, who also lives here in Serpentine, says my voice is like Casey Chambers but he prefers mine.

“I’ve had people come up and ask if I know her. So one of the songs I have is called Do You Know Casey Chambers?”

Lou said she didn’t consider herself a songwriter, rather a

vessel. “If a song wants to come out (be written), it comes.” She said: “I am writing about the country that is my roots and also with a bit of comedy.

“And once they are written, I still have to learn the lyrics!

“I grew up with country music - every weekend in Inglewood, listening to country music on record players. One of my uncles bought a four-cassette set and I

guarantee I learnt every word of every song.”

Lou said weekends with grandmother Ethel Ashworth and uncles Alan and Bobby Grundy started her love for country music.

And without mentors in the music scene including Bendigo Blues and Roots’ Ross Perry, Lou says “I’d still be just singing in the front room”.

Works for Pyramid Yarraberb Road, Canary Island culverts, reseals

Reconstruction of 2.6km of Pyramid Yarraberb Road is expected to start in March, with works to be completed by Berne Fleming Civil Pty Ltd.

The Pyramid Yarraberb Road runs north south between Boort Mitiamo Road and Loddon Valley Highway. It is an important connecting road between Bendigo, Pyramid Hill and surrounding areas. The road was a ected by the October 2022 ood event, resulting in damage to 1.36km of the road, requiring reconstruction work.

Canary Island culvert replacement

Works on the replacement of three culverts along Canary Island Leaghur Road, Canary Island are expected to start in April. The works include a new 6m by 1.8m twin culvert, 9m by 1.8m triple cell culvert and a 3m by 1.5m culvert. The culvert replacements are being completed by Avard Civil.

Annual reseal program

Council’s annual reseal program is underway. This year’s program will see reseals on 56.7km of Council roads, with a total area of 307.9m². Resealing works are taking place on various roads throughout the Shire including in Auchmore, Arnold, Campbells Forest, Dingee, Eastville, Eddington, Inglewood, Kamarooka North, Kingower, Kurraca and Lake Marmal.

Additionally, resealing works are taking place on roads in Laanecoorie, Llanelly, Pompapiel, Powlett Plains, Pyramid Hill, Raywood, Rheola, Salisbury West, Serpentine, Tandarra

Wychitella.

Connected to the world for a day

RHEOLA will be connected to the world when the town holds its 151st charity carnival on Easter Monday.

The notorious mobile phone and internet blackspot will temporarily be filled with a mobile tower being placed at the recreation reserve.

“The mobile tower from Telstra will help people share their experiences and also make the event safer for the thousands who will be here for a day of great country fun,” said carnival president Matt Catto.

“The tower will be a big step forward on our biggest day of the year.”

GENERATIONS OF PASSION - PAGE 15

Hearing options

VICTORIAN Electoral Commission on Tuesday held its public hearing on proposals to change Loddon Shire ward boundaries.

The online hearing was the final step before a recommendation is put to the State Government ahead of council elections in October.

Loddon Shire Council backed the commission’s minor tweaking of boundaries. An alternative submission from the Loddon Herald suggested greater change.

Lou Green lets the music flow in her special room at home. LH PHOTO

Cracking success

rebirth of Lions market

THE monthly Lions market roared back to life on the lawns of Inglewood Town Hall on Saturday morning.

Stallholders from across the district backed the market’s return while a roving crowd wandered from Brooke Street to buy local produce and crafts.

“The music from members of the Goldfields Music Club added to the great atmosphere and helped bring people to the town hall area,” said organiser Eddie Sydor.

Club members were pleased to have a dozen stalls for the first market in more than two years, among them Bridgewater pistachio grower Julie Hampson Patterson.

“I’ve been growing pistachio trees for 10 years but this is the first time I have sold the nuts at a market,” she said.

“The first 17 trees were brought from Gol Gol (near Mildura) and I went back and got another 17 the next year.

“They have taken time to mature ... the crows got the nuts last year.”

However, 2024 have been a good harvest for Julie.

“March is harvest time and it’s been good so far for the small orchard,” she said.

“Everything is hand-picked and they have to be taken off the trees within a couple of days of

husking. Then they lay out in the sun to dry for two days before being roasted.

“Of course, as that’s happening there’s a bit of quality control as I sample the nuts.”

Julie said the market coinciding with harvest had been ideal to make her stallholder debut.

“In the past I have been giving them away to family and friends,” she said.

Glenalbyn’s Monique Ward had her spinning wheel in action, turning fleece into knitting wool while Eddie Sydor was wearing two hats at the market. He is also a member of the Bendigo Gem

VNI West planning gets speed

PLANNING approvals for renewable energy projects will be put in the State Government’s express lane.

Premier Jacinta Allan on Monday announced the accelerated approvals would give confidence to investors.

VNI West running between Stawell and Kerang is among projects that could be given fast-tracked treatment.

“We will cut the red tape holding back projects that provide stronger, cheaper power for Victorians,” Ms Allan said.

“The current system means that important projects can be tied up for years seeking approval. It delays construction and deters investment, and instead of spinning turbines, we’re too often left spinning our wheels.”

The Government says all new renewable projects in Victoria will be treated as significant economic development, making

them eligible for an accelerated pathway – removing the planning panel process and third-party appeals at VCAT. Renewable projects currently stuck in approvals will also be able to access the accelerated pathway.

“It ensures objections that have been resolved or dealt with don’t get stuck in VCAT at the end of the process during the final ‘notice of decision’ stage – which in some instances has added two years to delivery. The change means that from the time a complete application is lodged for one of these new state significant projects, decisions can be made within four months.”

VNI West proposals are currently with the Government to determine whether an environmental effects statement is needed. The Government was contacted for an update on an EES statement decision.

Monique Ward spins away at the market. LH PHOTO

Andie Downing and Eddie Sydor

Julie Hampson Patterson

The Railway Hotel

High-grade zones focus of Falcon’s future drilling

FALCON Metal’s Pyramid Hill project has generated multiple prospective gold targets since drilling started three years ago.

The company has said in its annual report released last week that it was focussed on undertaking regional reconnaissance drilling to identify the additional targets, so they can be prioritised before infill drilling to vector in on higher-grade zones.

“In September 2023, Falcon announced the final assay results for all aircore holes completed during the 2023 drilling program at the Pyramid Hill project,” the report said.

“Several targets generated from Falcon’s ongoing regional reconnaissance program were prioritised for infill drilling during the period, including six holes

on EL006669 (near Kerang), 10 holes on EL006960 (near Eddington) and eight holes on EL006737 at the Wandoo Prospect.

“The regional reconnaissance program is continuing with programs near Cohuna, Pyramid Hill and Maryborough.”

Falcon Metals reported a loss from continuing operations to December 2023 of $2,035,409 compared with $2,679,062 the previous year. Its assets are more than $15 million.

The 100 per cent owned Pyramid Hill Gold Project was first staked in late 2017 and now covers an more than 7000 square kilometres of central Victoria.

Falcon Metals earlier this month announced results of mineral sand drilling in the area.

Mia

centre) have immersed themselves in a day of higher education as recipients of La Trobe University Bendigo’s Infinity Awards. The students learned about some of the basic information surrounding higher education and the experience of studying at university, toured the campus, participated in a Study Smart Workshop and a workshop with the La Trobe Rural Health School. They also heard from the Future Students Centre about courses offered at La Trobe University and received a first-hand explanation of the experience of studying at university from a current student.

Otto flies at old Pelican Hotel

THE old Pelican Hotel in Inglewood’s Brooke Street has taken new flight as the town’s newest cafe.

Robyn Parker has opened Otto’s serving coffee and food in the historic red brick building that once quenched the thirsts of miners and travellers arriving by stagecoach.

The 1907 building replaced earlier hotels on the site that were destroyed by fire and it was a hotel until delicensed in 1969.

Robyn said the cafe was named for her youngest grandson.

“I wanted something short and sharp that people would remember and say they had been to Otto’s,” she said.

“I have six grandkids so we had a big family discussion before settling on the name.”

Robyn’s cafe venture follows more than 30 years working in hospitality and catering.

“I wasn’t ready to retire and when the old Pelican became available, it was just the place to open Otto’s,” she said.

“I’ve been friends with Denise and Steve Gartside who have the Inglewood Emporium for more than 30 years and we had often spoken about opening in Inglewood.

“The welcome to the town has been fantastic.”

INFINITY STUDY EAST Loddon P12 College students Alexandra Fletcher, Abigail Johns and

Matthews (pictured

Robyn Parker

Lake work ideas out for community consultation

CONCEPTS for development around Little Lake Boort are out for community consultation.

DWP Design last month completed a draft masterplan for Loddon Shire Council.

The masterplan has been designed to reconnect and activate eight parkland zones around the northern section of Little Lake Boort including Nolen’s Park, Boort Tennis Club, Boort Bowls Club, historic park, croquet club, Swimming Pool and surrounding area.

The draft says zones have been developed to establish manageable projects that considers the likely financial impost on council combined with a logical staged sequence of development that is to be developed on confirmation of preferred design components.

A skate park, three-on-three basketball facility and power outlets between the swimming pool and fire brigade track have been proposed.

A new east entrance and water play features have been included in the draft mas-

terplan for the swimming pool. Upgraded parking is marked for the existing bowls club carpark and the fire brigade track.

Council wellbeing director Wendy Gladman said there had been discussions held with the tennis and croquet clubs, and the Boort Tourism and Development.

A pop-up in Boort yesterday “has been designed as an opportunistic session, to have staff available to speak with people who are up the street visiting the local shops”, she said.

“There will be further opportunities for people to provide feedback on the plans .

“The plans will be on display for a period of three weeks to include Easter ... council will identify if any additional consultation is needed.

“A better understanding will come of the expected finalisation of the plan after the community consultation, depending on the feedback received and any changes that may be required. We are aiming, at this stage, for a mid-year completion,” Mrs Gladman said.

Tourism guide hits bumper 80 pages

LODDON’s 2024 official visitor guide has grown to 80 pages, showcasing the best tourism experiences across the Shire.

Mayor Gavan Holt said: “If you want to know what to do, see, eat, drink and where to stay in the Loddon region, this guide is a must read”.

“This guide will be distributed across the state, bringing targeted exposure to local businesses while highlighting the Shire’s many leading experiences, attrac-

tions, events and must visit destinations.

“The publication highlights Loddon Valley’s points of difference, including undiscovered villages, cultural events and natural wonders to be unearthed, as well as numerous itineraries, trails and local profiles of must do activities.”

Cr Holt said council had printed 10,000 copies of the 2024 edition, which would be distributed shortly to participating businesses throughout the shire.

The world is watching our Facebook fight!

An open letter to Prime Minister Anthony

Albanese

Dear Prime Minister, Your first response to Facebook brazenly announcing they’ll stop paying for our news that they use to make a fortune from was…perfect!

“That’s not the Australian way,” you said.

Exactly. Australians hate bullies. Australians fight for a fair go. And this battle is not just a fight for a fair go here - the whole world is watching.

Meta, the trillion dollar tech giant that owns Facebook has built an empire out of content they don’t own. They don’t produce anything. They ‘share’ the great work of others and keep the cash.

The Australian government was the first in the world to call out this scandal, and in 2021 the News Media Bargaining Code forced them to finally pay for news content.

But not anymore.

Meta is betting that if they bully the Australian government, they win the world. PM, this is a fight for the future of news and democracy. This is fight against fake news and a fight for a fair go for all journalists who hold the powerful to account, all around the world.

Let’s make sure Australia shows Facebook what a fair go is.

The world is watching.

Yours sincerely,

Andrew Schreyer President Country Press Australia

WEARING OF THE GREEN

Here’s cheers to St Pat

OWEN Rule had the Guiness flowing at Wedderburn-Korong Vale RSL rooms on Sunday.

He acted as barman for St Patrick’s Day celebrations and had another reason to join in the festivities. It was his 68th birthday.

The long-time Wedderburn resident who was born in Pyramid Hill and grew up at Yarrawalla said he had seen some

great birthdays over the years.

“For my 50th, I shouted myself a round-the-world trip and was in New York for St Patrick’s Day - it was absolutely huge, bands playing everywhere,” he said.

That trip also had a stopover in Dublin for a visit to the Guiness brewery.

“Another year I spent my birthday at The Rocks in Sydney,

another time in Geelong but New York was the best,” he said.

Owen even marked Sunday’s latest trip around the sun with a large leprechaun hat that sat firmly on his head as beers were poured.

He was joined by other members of the RSL sub-branch who also donned the green in homage to the patron saint of Ireland.

THE traditional Feast Day of St Patrick was marked in Pryamid Hill on Monday. Students at St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School started celebrations with a Mass before festivities, an activity day and a barbecue lunch. “The primary students from Pyramid Hill College joined us for our activities which included tabloid sports, art and craft and cooking, all with an Irish theme,” said principal John O’Connor.

If

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

you need advice or assistance with

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

anything related to government,

For the latest Coronavirus information go to peterwalsh.org.au or follow us on PETER WALSH MP YOUR VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

If you need advice or assistance with anything related to government, or in your general day-to-day life, please contact my of ce on the details below and we will do our best to help you.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

If you need advice or assistance with anything related to government, or in your general day-to-day life, please contact my of ce on the details below and we will do our best to help you.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

or in your general day-to-day life, please contact my of ce on the details below and we will do our best to help you.

For the latest Coronavirus information go to peterwalsh.org.au or follow us on

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

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

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

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

The toast of St Patrick’s Day ... Owen Rule celebrates his birthday on Sunday. LH PHOTO

After two weeks of successive rises, and three without a fall, the Australian wool market recorded a reduction last week, the dip in the market largely due to the strengthening of the Australian dollar. There were no large falls, with many pockets recording increases, particularly in the North. The movements in the individual Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for merino fleece ranged between plus 13 and minus 29 cents. The crossbred sector recorded minimal change (MPG movements between plus 2 and minus 5 cents).

Skirtings generally tracked the fleece, whilst the oddments closed slightly higher. The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) fell by 5 cents for the series, closing at 1,167 cents.

The EMI began the current season (beginning of July 2023) at 1,126 cents.

Over the seventy selling days that have since transpired, the EMI has risen on twenty-nine occasions, fallen on thirty-five and been unchanged on the other six. With the EMI now sitting at 1,167 cents, the net result of all these market movements, is an increase of 41 cents. Averaging this movement across the season, the EMI has risen by an average of 0.58 cents per selling day. Although the increase is small, it shows the market is tracking marginally higher for the season.

As mentioned earlier, much of the market movements for the series can be attributed to currency movement, so much so that when viewed in US dollar terms the market strengthened. The EMI added 9 US cents for the series, closing at 772 cents. The largest improvements for the season, have been in the broadest reported sector of the market. In the South the 30.0-micron MPG has gained 57 cents for the season, a 20.0% rise. The 32.0-micron MPG has added 50 cents, again an increase of exactly 20%.

This week’s quantity is forecast to increase by over five thousand bales. Source: AWEX

SHEEP anD LaMBS

MORE lambs at Bendigo on Monday after the fortnight’s break due to the Labour Day public holiday, with 16,030 yarded.

It was another sale marked by very mixed lamb quality and subdued buyer interest, particularly on plainer ‘in-between’ lambs in the 18-24kg cwt range.

The best export and heavy trade lambs were similar to a fortnight ago, but plainer types under 24kg lost another $5 to $15/hd and more in places.

A local agency did step in and buy trade framed and some heavier lambs to feed-on as prices weakened.

Export lambs over 30kg cwt were limited in number and mostly sold from $190 to $215 with just one pen higher to the market top of $223. The heavy 26-30kg crossbred lambs $160 to $182, and the neatest trades $135 to $148.

These better style processing lambs were estimated at 570c to 620c/kg cwt.

But it was a day where odd penlots and breeds such as pure Border Leicester lambs faced a fair discount and there was sales of heavy lambs that went below 550c at times.

Where the market lost momentum was on lambs in the 18-24kg range, with a lot of sales from $85 to $130.

The price averages for these plainer lambs was 500c to 550c/kg, which meant there was pens selling under the 500c threshold.

In comparison any ideally weighted MK bag lambs still sold OK at $70 to $115/head.

The sheep sale was dearer than Bendigo a fortnight ago, improving to match more recent levels of 230c to 280c/kg cwt for good lines of mutton.

Heavy Merino ewes $69 to a top of $108, big crossbred ewes to $94. General run of ewes $40 to $70/hd.

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

In a market with subdued competiton, this weeks’ sale saw heavy lambs remain firm while trade lambs were cheaper.

Monday, March 18th 2023 - Bendigo Yarding: Lambs -

CROSSBRED LAMBS

Killara Past Co P/L Boort (101) $205. C Graham Family Arnold (85) $202. A & C Branson Colbinabbin (132) $196. Gredgwin Ridge Boort (67) $191. MN Isaac Powlett Plains (25) $186. GL & RA Cain Moama (43) $180. R & D Last Fiery Flat (120) $176. J & M McDonald Woodstock (21) $176. M Hartland Goornong (101) $154. S & T Jackson Kinypanial (45) $144. F & M Schmidt Pyramid Hill (122) $143.

DORPER

Sawer Farms Boort (151) $75.

MERINO WETHERS

B Balmer Harcourt Nth (111) $100. D & S Shay Moliagul (116) $87. Kiriwina P/L Durham Ox (172) $76. JJ & SL O’Connor Ruffy (134) $59.

CROSSBRED EWES

M Hartland Goornong (31) $82. McKInnon & Bailey Marong (24) $80.

MERINO EWES

Kiriwana P/L Durham Ox (89) $63. M & J Ellis Benalla (52) $66. G & L Langley Newbridge (112) $94. D & C Gunther Pyramid Hill (122) $91. B Balmer Harcourt Nth (94) $90.

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

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

grain

BOORT Grain Co-op prices on Monday.

Wheat – H1 $340 FIS H2 $315 FIS. APW $295 FIS. ASW $281 FIS. GP1 $276 FIS.

Barley – Maximus $253 FIS. Planet $286 FIS. Spartacus $269 FIS. Bar1 $269 FIS. Bar2 $259 FIS.

Pulses – Faba1 $450 FIS. Faba2 $450 FIS. Nipper $830 FIS. Field pea $475 FIS. ISCC non-GM canola $565 FIS. ISCC GM canola $540 FIS.

New crop 2024-2025 – APW MG $297. Bar1 MG $248.

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

Alex

Alex Pollock - 0409

Henry Bugge -

Will Lowe - 0498 381

New soil guide launched

A NEW resource will serve as a one-stop-shop for farmers and gardeners keen to understand and improve their soil health will be launched in Pyramid Hill today.

North Central Catchment Management Authority and Agriculture Victoria have teamed to create the region’s Soil Health Guide.

North Central CMA sustainable agriculture program manager Mandy Coulson said the guide included a physical and digital book, a step-by step website, and instructional videos on how to understand, test and improve soil.

“Soil is central to a lot of the challenges farmers face, so understanding the makeup of soil and how to improve it can go a long way to helping them make the right decisions,” she said.

“No matter whether you’re in a paddock, at your desk, on the lounge, or in the garden, you’ll have access to the information you need to test and improve your soil.

“These resources are perfect for our catchment, but the knowledge can be easily used anywhere around Victoria or Australia.”

Agriculture Victoria grains northern biosecurity and agriculture services regional manager Rebecca Mitchell will launch the guide at the soil and decision making forum.

She and said the resources offered practical information and

solutions. “The Soil Health Guide is a toolkit and identifies a range of simple tests anyone can do to determine management actions to improve soil health,” she said.

“The Soil Health Guide looks at ground cover, biological activity, soil colour, pH, texture, topsoil, structure, compaction, and stability. The guide also discusses

the valuable role played by existing soil carbon stores and how they offer great benefit to both agricultural productivity and the wider environment.”

Ms Coulson said the forum was focussed on providing practical insights and tools to help farmers make informed decisions.

“In complex systems with so

Machinery tops bidding at clearing sale

MORE than 200 registered bidders set a spirited scene at last Friday’s clearing sale at Fentons Creek.

Agent Brett Driscoll, of Driscoll Douglas East, said bidding was solid throughout the day at the former Camarina Farming property.

The top bid was $280,00 for a header sold to a New South Wales buyer.

Mr Driscoll said the sale attracted great interest from across northern Victoria with successful buyers also coming from South Australia. “We had 212 registered bidders for what was a good sale. Buyers like the in-person clearing sales,” he said.

The 4517-acre Camarina Farming property has been leased.

Locals to fore at store sale

BOORT district farmers figured heavily as buyers at last Friday’s Wycheproof store sheep sale.

More than 4500 Merino and first cross sheep were offered by Nutrien.

Boort agent Nick Byrne said: “Quite a few of the sheep stayed local ... sheep bred in the district for the district,” he said.

Vendors included farmers from Yarrwalla, Lake Marmal, Durham Ox and Pyramid Hill.

Mr Byrne said: “The offering was principally vendor-bred sheep that displayed very well.

“There was an outstanding lineup of Merinos in particular and they drew attention of buyers although some were in smaller runs at the sale to match volume requirements of buyers,” he said.

“Besides local Boort buyers, others came from the Wimmera, Bendigo and Ballarat areas.

“We sold all sheep offered and the prices represented good value to purchasers.”

many decisions to be made, it can be tough for farmers to make sound decisions,” she said.

Think Agri’s Kate Burke will talk about why paying attention to soil makes great business sense. Canary Island farmer Jo Bear will talk about her experiences and how to unlock the potential with the Soil Health Guide.

Mr Byrne said market prices for the sheep aged between 18 months and three years were in line with current industry returns and seasonal conditions.

„ Meanwhile, Nutrien Boort is today hosting a spray field day in conjunction with Birchip Cropping Group.

Farm business advisor Dan Toohey will present a session on new spray technology and machinery investment.

Friday’s sale at Fentons Creek

Canary Island’s Greg and Jo Bear

Will government speed efforts to hear voices?

THE Victorian Government’s announcement of faster planning approval processes for renewable energy projects has been wrapped in packaging proclaiming certainty for investors.

Sounds good to the voters in Melbourne, perhaps. But what about people living in rural Victoria where, to date, these projects are almost exclusively on the drawing boards.

Already, there are some in the country who have expressed anger and dismay that they are not being considered or heard on the controversial VNI West project.

There have been claims that country people are being trampled on, dispensable in the political game that has an agenda set in Melbourne.

The fast-tracking of planning ticks only fuels the cynicism towards VNI West. The project will be rammed through, as critics have said, and it’s just stiff for the country.

lEttER tO thE EDItOR

Road revelations ‘deeply concerning’

Sir, Revelations of 480 road sites across regional Victoria being labelled “under pavement in poor condition”, resulting in speed reductions, are deeply concerning.

Yet the Allan Labor Government refuses to address this issue, slashing 45 per cent from the road maintenance budget since 2020.

Which spin and lie has been used this time? Premier Allan blames the terrible condition of our roads on the string of natural disasters.

Perhaps the same excuse is used for the inexplicable delays in repairing crucial tourism infrastructure damaged in the East Gippsland bushfires - more than four years ago.

When will Labor Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne, realise the gravity of her responsibilities to all Victorians?

What’s the alternate? We promised to inject $1 billion every year for the next ten years if elected.

Families in regional Victoria face serious safety threats every day as they navigate these roads rid-

yOUR ONlINE WORDS

POLICE PROMISE TO ADVERTISE PYRAMID HILL VACANCY

Kel Stewart wrote: Just like Pyramid Hill would have a policeman by January 2024 .. all talk. Bruce McCahon wrote: Kel Stewart, when listening to a bureaucrat double the timeframe and cost. When listening to a politician kick yourself and find something more productive to be doing.

FLOOD RECOVERY WORK BACKLODGE

DOGGED BY RED TAPE

Darren Quigley wrote: It all comes down to planning and whether or not it’s worth spending money

EDItORIAl

The Government said its move ensures objections that have been resolved or dealt with don’t get stuck in VCAT at the end of the process during the final ‘notice of decision’ stage although promising community voices will still be heard. How? That remains to be seen. A bit like the promises of community benefits for having renewable energy transmission lines strung above prime irrigation land in the Loddon Shire - still no details a year on.

Neither the Victorian or Federal Governments have really bothered to engage communities between Stawell and Kerang on VNI West.

If they were serious about hearing community voices, the responsible ministers would hop in the car and pay a visit. Perhaps that should be fasttracked too!

dled with potholes. What’s needed now is action, something unfamiliar to this Labor Government. And this must come in the State Budget, which is only six weeks away.

In the 2023 budget, a mere 15 per cent of funding was directed towards regional Victoria, despite housing 25 per cent of the state’s population.

This oversight highlights a significant gap in understanding the needs of regional communities, particularly concerning essential infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and housing.

It’s imperative the government recognises effective governance requires equal distribution of resources to all areas of the state, particularly for our roads and hospitals.

The Nationals guaranteed that regional Victorians would receive 25 per cent of all infrastructure spending if elected in 2022.

The challenge now sits with Labor to deliver regional Victorians their fair share.

However, recent history tells us Labor can’t manage money, and regional Victorians are paying the price.

PeterWalsh LeaderoftheNationals

in some of these old watered areas.Unfortunately some buildings and roads have been built right on top of these areas that are going to continue as an issue.And as a result infrastructure needs to be constructed to possibly by pass these issues.

END OF POOL SEASON

Leesa Catto wrote: Surely the pools must remain open longer now with our weather forecast etc.

HARD HILL RESERVE PLAQUE HONOURS ROBBIE COLLINS

Bernadette Reeves wrote: What a beautiful tribute to a kind, fun loving worker for Wedderburn.

20 QUESTION QUIZ

1. What date is St Patrick’s Day?

2. Relating to the internet, what does URL stand for?

3. A James Bond villain is Ernst Stavro who?

4. What is the term for a solid figure with 5 flat faces?

5. A boomslang is what type of creature?

6. In Looney Tunes, how many times did Wile E. Coyote catch Roadrunner?

7. What name is given to the outermost layer of a planet’s atmosphere?

8. A bibliophile is a lover of what?

9. The song YMCA is by which band?

10. A costard is what type of fruit?

11. Name the US state that appears on Jack Daniels bottle.

12. What is the name of the largest gold nugget ever discovered?

13. Who painted The Water Lily Pool?

14. A couple celebrating their crystal wedding anniversary have been married for how many years?

15. Black Dog and Blind Pew are characters in which novel?

16. Developed in 1954, The Salk vaccine is used against which disease?

17. The town of Hungerford is found in which Australian state or territory?

18. How many tiles are in a standard set of dominoes?

19. Mysophobia is the fear of what?

ANSWERS

20. What is the stretch of water in between Tasmania and mainland Australia? 1.

THE creative juices have really been flowing for Bradley of Boort this week. The brief vacation has seen him return to home climes all powered up to keep the Treemendous Signs coming.

RAFFLE ticket sellers have been powered, too, as sports finals wrap up seasons and Easter looms with chocolate temptations. Upper Loddon Cricket Association hasn’t been away from the action and in drawing the ballot of prizewinners on Saturday, Wedderburn butcher Cam Steel picked up a prize ... donated by Jye and Kristy Arnold at Arnold Family Butchers in Boort.

T HESE butchers are pretty good friends

and no doubt Cam and co won’t mind a barbecue from further north in the Loddon.

DEFINITE segue into some jokes straight off the hook. What is it when one butcher spies on another butcher? A steak out. Did you hear about the butcher who was arrested for being a Russian spy? Apparently there was more to him than meats the eye. how did the butcher introduce his wife? Meet Patty. What do you call a butcher with a degree? A meateorologist

T HEY say the Big Texan Steal Ranch in Amarillo offers the biggest steak in the world at 2.04kg. Says it’s free to anyone who, in one hour or less, can eat the entire meal, consisting of the steak itself, a bread roll with butter, a baked potato, shrimp cocktail, and a side salad; otherwise, the meal costs $72, which in Aussie dollars comes it just below $110.

bUShy tAlES by IAN jONES

My first real role on the day was helping to run the hoop-la (quoits) table and then I was promoted to the spinning wheel - Matt Catto

Matt

has grown up with the

Charity Carnival. Now president, he reflects on the

Home of great traditions

MATT Catto was barely a toddler when sitting in a pram at his first Rheola Charity Carnival.

The event was already more than 100 years old and the Catto family had been involved since the first grand gathering in 1871, just three years after Matt’s greatgrandfather settled in the district.

“I was born in 1976, my first carnival was the next year and I haven’t missed one since,” said the fourth generation Catto as he prepares for his first carnival as president.

Matt recalls growing up with the carnival that raises funds for Inglewood and Districts Health Service and Maryborough District Health’s Dunolly campus.

“My first real role on the day was helping to run the hoop-la (quoits) table and then I was promoted to the spinning wheel that would cost 50 cents a ticket and you’d be trying to give people their change. Things became a lot easier when the price became $1,” he said.

“For years our family also supplied the

By CHRIS EARL

sheep for the guess the weight competition. We’d be up early to select a sheep and then at the end of the day, dragging it onto the scales for weigh-in.

“And then that night I’d drive with my uncle John to Inglewood where the Westpac bank manager would up open up so we could deposit gate takings and stall funds raised during the day.

“At the same time, the bank manager was also be counting money raised on Good Friday for the Royal Children’s Hospital appeal.”

Matt says community and family connections have kept him involved with the iconic carnival all his life.

“If people came back from 150 years ago and walked through the crowd this year, they would come across the same families and many of the activities that have been on the program for so long. It’s a great family day and where else would

you find a full day of entertainment for $10 admission?

“We make sure the event, the food, the drink is affordable and that’s important to keep people coming back.

“After the success of last year’s 150th carnival, I hope we can match that in 2024. The weather will decide our fate.”

Matt is proud of the family’s contribution to the district and the carnival.

He says a special moment was in 2016 when daughter Nicole was judged Miss Rheola and son James master tiny tot. To cap off the day, Matt won the sheaf toss for a second time.

And he sees the family’s next generation - the fifth - as playing their role in the tradition with youngest son James’ name already down on the roster of volunteers for Easter Monday this year.

Matt says volunteers are the heartbeat of the carnival’s organisation, singling out secretary Deb Hancock for special praise in pulling the event together.

“The thousands of people who come

through the gates on Easter Monday benefit from the work of Deb and all the families of the district through the generations - Masons, Leaches, Mitchells and ... I’m sure I’ve left someone out,” he said.

“Things have became harder with a lot of government rules and regulationswe used to have horse races - there are tighter rules around the bar but we keep evolving.”

Matt also wants the reputation of the Rheola Charity Carnival to be front and centre 365 days a year.

“Wouldn’t it be great if we could have a sign on the road proclaiming Rheola as the home of a great charity carnival running for more than 150 years.

“Perhaps, too, we could look to support more organisations who help make the day a success. We keep evolving but the traditions continue.”

On Easter Monday, Matt will join brothers, sisters, cousins and family friends for generations in staging the 151st Rheola Charity Carnival.

Catto

Rheola

Family traditions ... Geoff Catto at the 2003 carnival and Matt running the spinning wheel 20 years later

Matt and James Catto at Rheola Recreation Reserve. LH PHOTO

DEATH no T ic E

Ivy Conole

1/5/1928 to 12/3/2024

The service to celebrate Ivy’s life will take place at Napier Park, White Hills, on Friday the 22nd of March @ 11am.

Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother & Great Great Grandmother. Forever missed.

public no T ic Es

public no T ic Es

Temporary Street Closure

The following street in Eddington will be closed to through tra c from 8am to 5pm on Saturday 23 March 2024 as part of the 39th Annual Eddington Vintage and Historic Sprint Meeting 2024.

 Playfair Street between McCoy Street and Dunolly Eddington Road Eddington

Member vacancies - Victorian Class B cemetery trusts

Are you interested in making a meaningful contribution to your community, learning new skills and preserving local history for future generations?

The following Class B cemetery trusts are seeking volunteer trust members. In this role you will gain hands-on experience in managing a public cemetery and valuable governance skills as a member of a public board. Free governance training is provided.

THE KINGOWER CEMETERY TRUST

THE WOOSANG CEMETERY TRUST

Who should apply?

Applications are welcome from community members with a range of skills and experiences including administration, committees, and groundskeeping. Women and people from diverse backgrounds are actively encouraged to seek appointment. Current trust members whose terms of appointment are due to expire are welcome to apply for reappointment. What it means to be a Victorian cemetery trust member Cemetery trust members are appointed by the Governor in Council for a term of up to five years on the recommendation of the Minister for Health. Cemetery trusts are responsible for the management of public cemeteries, including planning for future cemetery services for their communities. More information about the role is available at <https://www.health.vic.gov.au/ cemeteries-and-crematoria/class-b-cemetery-trust-appointments>.

How to register your interest

Please refer to the trust contact details below and contact the applicable trust within two weeks of the date of this advertisement:

Victorian Class B cemetery trust

Contact details

The Kingower Cemetery Trust 5438 8223

The Woosang Cemetery Trust 0429 811 090

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community. We encourage applications from people of all ages, Aboriginal people, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and from lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse, intersex and queer people. The trust will provide adjustments to the recruitment process upon request. F40794

Audit and Risk Committee

– Independent Member vacancy 2024

Loddon Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from suitably skilled, community focused persons to be appointed as an independent member of its Audit and Risk Committee.

The Audit and Risk Committee has been established to support Council in discharging its oversight responsibilities related to nancial and performance reporting, risk management, fraud prevention systems and control, maintenance of a sound internal control environment, assurance activities and Council’s performance with regard to compliance with its policies and legislative and regulatory requirements.

The appointment is for a period of up to four years, with potential for two additional four-year terms.

Ideally, the successful candidate will have experience in local government, nancial management, risk management or public sector management.

Additionally candidates with a background in business or strong local community knowledge and involvement in Loddon Shire are also strongly encouraged to apply.

The Committee meets quarterly in Wedderburn with in person attendance required for at least three of the four meetings.

Further information, including the Audit and Risk Committee Charter and Information Pack can be found on Council’s website, https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/OurCouncil/Council/Audit-Committeemembership-and-meetings or by contacting Lisa Clue, Manager Governance on (03) 5494 1200.

Applications close at 5.00pm on Monday 25 March 2024

MEET in G s

KINGOWER CRICKET AND RECREATION

RESERVE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT

Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held at Both Banks Winery Kingower on Wednesday March 27 commencing at 7.30pm. The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Kingower Cricket and Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 31st May 2024. All positions will be declared open, and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Wendy Murphy on 0417338578.

Boort Agricultural & Pastoral Society Inc.

Annual General Meeting

Date: Wednesday 3rd April, 7pm

Venue: Boort Park

Apologies to boortagsociety@outlook.com

General meeting to follow at 7.30pm

PUBLIC NOTICES

Join us for an adventurer’s weekend as we explore

Mt Korong surrounds and the Wychitella

20th and 21st April

2024

Workshops and Walk-shops include

Traditional Owner Weaving Cultural history, Seed bombs, Exploration hunts, Nature Apps

MINING NOTICE

BBQ dinner

Saturday evening provided, (advise any dietaries upon booking )

Bring your Tent, swag, camper or caravan , stay overnight,

Register /Bookings essential

Meet at: Wetlands - Gatjin Dja

Wedderburn Serpentine Road, Mt Korong

GPS

Registration 9 00

Bus leaves at 10 00am

Park Connect, Eventbrite, email: trudynelssonwcmn@gmail com

It’s a great way to gain knowledge, learn practical skills and meet like-minded others. You will discover all sorts of ways to help nature at home and through local volunteering.

Lets help our

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR AN EXPLORATION LICENCE

Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990 – Section 15(5)

EMPLOYMENT

CAREERS AT LODDON SHIRE

Loddon Shire Council is seeking applications for the following positions from highly motivated, enthusiastic, energetic and outcome focused individuals who want to make a di erence and help shape our future.

Community Compliance Team Leader –ref.J/259

 Full-time, permanent position

 Band 6 salary $87,987.51-$95,316.86 per annum plus employer superannuation

 Based at Council’s Wedderburn o ce

Casual Early Childhood Educator –ref.J/123

 Casual position with exibility to choose your own days

 Early Childhood Educator 1.1 - $32.24 per hour (inclusive of casual loading)

 Positions available at all of our services

Casual Early Childhood Teacher – ref.J/124

 Casual position with exibility to choose your own days

 Early Childhood Educator 1.1 - $42.10 per hour (inclusive of casual loading)

 Positions available at all of our services Grader Operator – Loddon Gold elds –J/262

 Permanent, full-time

 GOCOM $74,435.25 - $77,562.67 per annum plus employer superannuation

For further information, including a detailed position description and details on how to apply, please visit Council’s website www. loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Organisation Development Unit on (03) 5494 1200.

Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) (Mineral Industries) Regulations 2019 – Regulation 22(1) and Schedule 1

1. Name and address of applicant(s):

Providence Gold & Minerals Pty Ltd C/-PO Box 563, East Maitland NSW 2323

2. Contact details of applicant (for map and other information requests):

Belinda Ingram, Authorised Agent (as employee of Australian Mining & Exploration Title Services)

Mobile: 0428 158 374. Email: vic@amets.com.au

3. Applicant’s Website (see notes) Further information about this application is available at the following websites: www. amets.com.au/victoria-tenements/ and www. earthresources.vic.gov.au/licenceapplications

4. Details of the application:

Application number: EL008410

Locality of the land to which the application relates: 1km south of Pyramid Hill, 3km northwest of Mologa, 7.5km north west of Yarrawalla

Approximate area of the application (Graticular Sections): 25

Date of the application: 29 February 2024

Term the licences are applied for: 5 years Outline of the proposed programs of work: Desktop studies, soil sampling, geophysical surveying, drilling

5. Objections and Comments:

Any person may object or comment to a licence being granted by:

a. putting the objection or comment in writing; and

b. including the grounds on which it is made Objections or comments must be lodged within 21 days after the latest date on which the application was advertised and can be lodged online or posted to:

The Minister for Energy and Resources c/- Manager Licensing, Earth Resources Regulation, PO Box 500, East Melbourne Victoria 8002

It is recommended that objections or comments are lodged online to ensure timely consideration:

https://rram.force.com/ObjectionSubmission Enquiries can be made by writing to the Manager Licensing at the above address or by phoning the Earth Resources Information Centre on 136 186.

6. Other information:

a. Subject to other requirements being satisfied, a prospecting licence, if granted, entitles the holder of the licence to prospect or explore for minerals, carry out mining on the relevant land, and do anything else that is incidental to that mining.

b. Further information regarding the requirements that must be complied with prior to work being undertaken is available on the department’s Community & Land Use page: https://earthresources.vic.gov.au/ community-and-land-use

BOORT Lakeside Croquet Club held its annual golf croquet tournament last weekend.

Visitors came from 19 clubs from all over Victoria and southern New South Wales. Some great croquet was played in beautiful surrounds, the visitors were impressed with the town and great facilities.

The catering committee once again excelled themselves with lovely morning and afternoon teas as well as feeding around seventy people a delicious evening meal on Saturday night.

The tennis club was used for three extra croquet courts to accommodate strong entries - 48 for the singles and 52 entries for the doubles.

Boort club thanked tournament director Ian Potter for his organisation of a successful event.

RESULTS

Singles - Level 1: Damien Hadfield (Kyneton). Runner up: Trevor Peters (Mooroopna). Level 2: Cherie Lessing (Rich River). Runner up: Graham Smith (Kyneton).

Level 3: Marjorie McKenzie (Queenscliff). Runner up: June Liddy (Horsham).

Doubles (Hi/Lo Draw) - Section 1: John James (Deniliquin) and June Liddy (Horsham). Runners up: Phil DeAraugo (Bendigo) and Rachel Cousins (Horsham).

Section 2: Alan Puttick (Boort) and Kathie Pitt (Ballarat Western). Runners up: Penny Morrison-McGill (Morwell) and Marjorie McKenzie (Queenscliff). Section 3: Ian Pitt (Ballarat Western) and Kaye Joyce (Echuca Moama). Runners up: Greg Brierley (Echuca Moama) and Valmai Hood (Horsham).

Section 4: Graham Smith (Kyneton) and Alister McDougal (Boort). Runners up: David Searl (Ballarat Alexandra) and Kevin Young (Morwell). Section 5 - Winners: Phil Hensman (Red Cliffs) and Rick Finch (Moama Echuca). Runners up: Mavis Peters (Shepparton) and Wendy Mills (Boort).

Boort’s Alan Puttick won section 2

Alister

Cherie Lessing

Penny Morrison-McGill

Hocking, Addlem win gold at state titles

LODDON swimmers came away with medals following the 2024 Victorian Country All Junior Competition at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre on the weekend.

The most successful was Dingee’s Jack Hocking who won three medals.

He dropped 2.39 seconds off his qualifying time to take gold in the 11-year-old 50-metre breaststroke. He also won a silver in 50-metre butterfly after dropping a massive 5.16 seconds along with a bronze in 50-metre backstroke following another PB of nearly three seconds.

Jack, who trains with Bendigo Hawks Aquatic, also made the finals of the 50-metre backstroke and finished sixth overall.

and finished fourth in freestyle, seventh in backstroke and ninth in butterfly.

Her brother Angus collected two bronze medals after finishing third in the 14yo 50m butterfly and freestyle.

Pyramid Hill hosts its annual community sports day with the Bulldogs playing Boort in one of four matches scheduled. LH PHOTOS

Earl skippers top rink

BOORT Bowling Club ladies held their annual medley day last week.

Players came from Donald Golf, Pyramid Hill, Donald, Wycheproof, Rupanyup, St Arnaud Country Club, Kerang, Wedderburn, St Arnaud, Kerang Golf, Calivil, Golden Square, Inglewood, Cohuna Golf, Charlton and Boort.

Winners were the team with players from Boort and CalivilJoan Earl (S) Lyn Lister, Janine Wiltshire, Sarah Polack - on 93 points, finishing ahead of the

Kerang combination of Gayle Teasdale (s), Helen McBain, Denise Frantz, Barbara Williams on 90.5.

Roll to Ditch winners: LeadRob Ashley (Wedderburn) Second - Jeannie Grylls ( Wycheproof) Third - John Prendergast (St. Arnaud) Skip - Lorraine Dingwall (Pyramid Hill).

Fan the Cards: Lead - Jennie Holborn (Golden Square) Second - Jeannie Grylls (Wycheproof) Third - Rhonda Pole (St Arnaud Country Club) Skip -Lorraine Dingwall ( Pyramid Hill).

Team mate Ruby Cullen from Pompapiel finished the swim meet with a bronze medal in the 13-year-old girls 50-metre freestyle after dropping nearly one second on her qualifying time.

Serpentine siblings Mar-

ley, Angus and Billie Addlem, who swim with Bendigo East Swimming Club, also came home with medals.

Marley booked herself a ticket to the 2024 Australian age championships next month after finishing first in the 16-year-old 50-metre breaststroke following a 1.12 second PB.

Marley made the finals for every stroke in the age group

Younger sister Billie, 9, dropped 2.47 seconds from her qualifying time to finish third in 50-metre butterfly.

Billie also made the finals in backstroke and came in 10th with a 3.67 second PB.

Other local swimmers to make the finals at the 2024 Victorian Country All Juniors were Madelyn Lawson, who finished sixth in the eight and under 50-metre freestyle, Reese Pascoe who finished eighth in 10-year-old 50-metre butterfly and Owen Hocking who finished ninth in eight and under 50-metres breaststroke. Madelyn, Reese and Owen swim with Bendigo Hawks Aquatic.

Ravenhalls pick up opening prizes

A GREENKEEPER’S seven-hold event was played at Tarnagulla Golf Club on Saturday to kick off the 2024 season.

Winner was Peter Ravenhall from Robyn Ravenhall. Nearest the pin: Peter Sanderson.

The opening event followed a working bee to prepare the course ahead of the Easter Cup competition next week.

The golf season will kick off at other clubs in the Loddon after Easter.

Wedderburn netballers were on the court against Inglewood in practice matches last Friday. Among key recruits for the Redbacks is Nikki Lockhart (above) who is back at Donaldson Park this season. On the football field, both clubs showed signs of depth and the benefits of pre-season fitness drills. This Saturday,

Winners: Joan Earl, Lyn. Lister, Janine Wiltshire and Sarah Polack

Jack Hocking and Ruby Cullen

The competition benchmark team regained the honour in Saturday’s grand final against Raywood, taking the upper hand across men’s, women’s and mixed sets.

But the side that has figured prominently in season deciders over the past decade had to work harder than in its semi-final the previous week. Raywood, making its first appearance in a grand final, displayed determination that saw several tie-breakers go its way.

Raywood had been given express entry to the grand final after last season’s premiers Mincha West forfeited the semi-final, unable to muster a team when heat rules brought the semi-final start times into the morning to avoid the day’s searing temperatures.

After the match, Calivil captain Michelle Balic was presented with the premiership shield. Calivil

B. Zuidema 7-6. J. Smith L. Strachan d A. Demeo M. Ludeman 7-2. L. Strachan A. Maxted d P. Harris H. Vinnicombe 7-3. O. Balic K. Maxted lost to R. Haw R. Demeo 4-7.

HARCOURT set up its Marong association pennant with a whitewash in the women’s sets in Saturday’s grand final.

The dominance proved too much for Marong to peg back despite some good results in the B Men’s sets.

Marong has finished the home and away season as minor premiers but barely a whisker separated it from Harcourt on the ladder - just one point and less than 10 per cent.

Marong had scraped into the grand final with an eight-game win over Newbridge.

Marong

Luke Boyd

Boyd takes out Meadows Cup

LUKE Boyd has taken out the Meadows Cup as this year’s Boort junior tennis junior champion. Championship events were held at the weekend.

Men’s doubles winners. Adam Potter and Jake Boyd d G Boyd H Lanyon 6-3 7-5.

Mixed doubles winners. Hamish Lanyon and Kellie Hare. d Maree Stringer and Jake Boyd 6-4 6-4. Leaghur and Marmal will meet in the grand final on Saturday.

Barraport 4-49 lost to Leaghur to 5-54

A. Potter S. Gould d G. Boyd D. Lanyon 8-4. M. Beattie R. Wright lost to L. Clark J. Malone 5-8. K. Hare F. Herrington d G. Malone D. Perryman 8-6. A. Potter M. Beattie lost to G. Boyd L. Clark 5-8. S. Gould K. Hare d D. Lanyon G. Malone 8-6. R. Wright F. Herrington lost to J. Malong D. Perryman 2-8. A. Potter K. Hare lost to G. Boyd G. Malone 1-8. M. Beattie F. Herrington d L. Clark D. Perryman 8-1. S. Gould R. Wright lost to D. Lanyon J. Malone 4-8. Marmal d Mysia 6-47 to 4-41

C. Scott G. Bear lost to D. Hatcher J. Boyd 6-4. L. Boyd N. Wright d A. Bear M. Stringer 6-4. C. Scott B. McPherson lost to D. Hatcher A. Potter 5-6. G. Bear L. Boyd d J. Boyd

A. Bear 6-2. N. Wright B. McPherson d M. Stringer A. Potter 6-2. C. Scott L. Boyd d D. Hatcher A. Bear 6-5. G. Bear N. Wright lost to J. Boyd M. Stringer 1-6. L. Boyd B. McPherson d A. Bear A. Potter 6-0. C. Scott

N. Wright lost to D. Hatcher M. Stringer 0-6. G. Bear B. McPherson lost to J. Boyd A. Potter 5-6.

CALIVIL North has its name back on the Loddon Valley Tennis Association premiership shield.

Raywood’s Mel Ludeman returns serve in the grand final. LH PHOTO

Arnold’s Ryan Metelmann took a bookend of wickets in Saturday’s grand final - dismissing opener Will Holt early and then Wedderburn;s last man at the crease Adam Postle. LH PHOTOS

Jim Van der Wetering’s three wickets were not enough to stop Arnold’s batsmen.

MIssion accomplished ... Arnold celebrates victory in the 2024 grand final.

Cam Dale top scores for Arnold with 54.

Matt Lockart puts respect into Wedderburn’s innings

Boort Yando Cricket Club hosted its first ever Upper Loddon association grand final. The club had the ground looking a picture and added to the friendly atmosphere of the day with food and refreshment tents. Club volunteers are pictured watching the concluding overs of the thrilling final from their special “members reserve”.

Silver lining to 125 years of Redbacks

ARNOLD proved the giant killers of the Upper Loddon Cricket Association winning the FP Nevins & Co. Premiership Shield for season 2023-24.

With just two wins and a forfeit in the home and away season, Arnold turned things around in the finals.

The Redbacks defeating minor premiers Kingower in the semifinal and then accounting for the more fancied Wedderburn in the final to claim their second one day flag.

In the club’s 125th year, the Redbacks came from wooden spooners to premiers in this season’s four-team competition.

The grand final played at Boort for the first time, was a closely contested affair with the lush outfield pulling up many a potential boundary.

Both teams also suffered with several catches put down at crucial times.

Play commenced under the watchful eyes of umpires Brian Minogue and Ben Rose with Arnold winning the toss and sending Wedderburn in to bat.

Wedderburn’s total of 121 was dominated by skipper Luke Holt through the first half of the innings, and Matt Lockhart through the second half.

Their respective scores of 41 and 29 were well over half the team’s total, with Will Holt the only other batsman to reach double figures.

Michael Dale was the pick of the Arnold bowlers, sending

By MICHAEL ROSE

down eight tidy overs and he conceded only 10 runs whilst picking up three victims.

Ryan Metelmann, Heath Lock and Campbell Hancock gave good support picking up two wickets each.

Arnold commenced their innings in fairly uneventful fashion with Adam Postle predictably hard to score from and had moved along to 2/37 at the first drinks break.

The game changed complexion immediately following the break as Jimmy Van de Wettering bowled his third over.

Van de Wettering, who had earlier claimed the important wicket of Phil Scholes in his first over, had Ryan Metelmann caught down the leg side with his first ball.

His third ball was clipped away by Michael Dale but in going for a second run, Dale was unable to beat Finn Turnbull’s return and was run out for one.

The very next ball Kale Hewett bunted a catch to Steve Giorlando for a golden duck.

When Adam Davies was dismissed in Giorlando’s following over, Arnold had lost four wickets in 10 balls and had slumped to 6/43. Wedderburn may have been on the verge of wrapping up the game early.

But Arnold had different ideas and it would be the last time in the season decide that the Wed-

Hall and Cockerell take earn club’s top awards

LACHIE Hall has won Boort Yando Club’s under 17 champion player award.

Hall was a member of the club’s premiership side and was awarded the JJ Mulquiny trophy at last week’s presentation evening.

Other under 17 awards went to Darby Perryman (bowling) and Cooper Gooding (batting).

The coach’s award was given to Tristen Zanker.

The BYCC Tiger Ryan Memorial trophy for the ‘player that has a go’ was revived this season and

awarded to exchange student Fred Gjorup who made an impact in his first year playing the sport.

David Rees had revived the award for the club.

Alex Cockerell made a cleansweep of the senior awards being named champion player and collected the batting and bowling honours.

Clubperson award went to Drew Crilly who retired from playing last year but continues to assist with club administration and activities.

Veterans cap off stunning season

ARNOLD stawarts Cam Dale and Phil Scholes have shared the club’s best and fairest award this season.

Votes were counted at the clubrooms on Sunday as members and supporters celebrated the premiership victory.

derburn bowlers tasted success.

The experienced Cam Dale was joined by Heath Lock and this pair firstly consolidated the innings and then started to pick the bowling off.

With a series of pull shots and crisp drives this pair eventually took Arnold to victory with an unbeaten 78 run partnership.

Dale faced 111 balls for his 54 runs while Lock’s contribution was 35.

The half-century from Dale came with a stirring boundary that put the Redbacks on the cusp of victory and within minutes, players were dancing in around the pitch, joined in jubilation by supporters.

Wedderburn weren’t without their chances to break this partnership as several catches were spilt, along with other near misses with the winning run actually coming from another dropped catch.

Van de Wettering was the most successful Wedderburn bowler with his three wickets while Postle and Giorlando were at their frugal best conceding only 11 and 13 runs respectively off their eight overs as well as claiming a wicket each.

Immediately following the game, Henry McCullough was presented with the FP Nevins Premiership Shield while Heath Lock was adjudged by the umpires to be the player of the Grand Final.

Kingower’s Matt Rowe won the Bishop Player of the Year,

The Merv Gilmore Memorial Batting Aggregate and the batting average award.

Teammates Jayden Leach received the Graham Family bowling average, Lachlan DeJong the bowling aggregate, Ben Rose the Empire State Hotel Catching Award.

Arnold’s Phil Scholes again won the the Scullie Wicketkeeping Award.

Wedderburn Band v Arnold Wedderburn

W. Holt b R. Metelmann ................................14

L. Holt lbw b M. Dale ..............................41

C. Steel c P. Scholes b M. Dale ................3

B. Holt b H. Lock ......................................3

M. Smith c C. Dale b H. Lock ...................7

J. Van de Wettering b C. Hancock ...........4

M. Woods c P. Scholes b M. Dale ............0

M. Lockhart run out (A. Davies) ..............29

S. Giolando c M. Dale b C. Hancock .......1

A. Postle b R. Metelmann .........................4

F. Turnbull not out .....................................2

Extras .....................................................13

Total ..............................................121

Bowling R. Metelmann 7.5-2-2-22, H. McCullough 8-0-0-23, M. Dale 8-3-3-10, H. Lock 7-1-2-32, C. Hancock 5-0-2-17, C. Dale 4-1-0-12. Arnold

P. Scholes b Van de Wettering ................14

H. McCullough lbw b A. Postle ................1

C. Dale not out .......................................54

R. Metelmann c M. Smith b J. Van de Wettering 6

M. Dale run out (F. Turnbull) ......................1

K. Hewett c S. Giorlando b J. Van de Wettering 0

A. Davies c M. Lockhart b S. Giorlando ...4

H. Lock not out .......................................35

Extras .......................................................7

Total ...........................................6/122

Bowling A. Postle 8-3-1-11, W. Holt 8-1-0-

24, M. Woods 2-0-0-7, J. Van de Wettering

8-1-3-24, S. Giorlando 8-2-1-13, C. Steel

3-0-0-21, F. Turnbull 0.3-0-0-2.

WEDDERBURN junior club and club legend Bob Steel on Friday night was recognised with Cricket Victoria’s Celebrating Cricket in Schools award.

The annual Community Cricket Awards celebrate contributions growing the game at all levels through schools, clubs and by highlighting exceptional service to key areas of participation.

Steel has been key in rejuvenating junior numbers at Wedderburn.

Top catch ... Ben Rose

Phil Scholes

Bob Steel

Steel’s state honour

Boort Yando president Al Knight and youngsters part of the club’s Cricket Blast program

Loddon HERALD sport

Thursday March 21, 2024

CAMEO CHAMPION

Lock steps take Redbacks from wooden spoon to premiership

FATE has seen Heath Lock return to cricket after five years and end the Upper Loddon association grand final with two medals around his neck.

The former Arnold junior padded up again for the Redbacks when younger brother Flynn was ruled out with injury earlier in the season.

A handful of games later, Heath had helped steer the Redbacks from season wooden spooners to premiers and be named player of the match.

His unbeaten 35 runs off the bat - two whopping sixes in the total - included a match-winning partnership at the crease with Cam Dale.

“I hadn’t played since a junior about five years ago, instead taking to the tennis court with Powlett,” Heath said.

“But when Flynn was injured I just filled in and started to find some form.”

Heath considers himself more a batsman than a bowler but took two crucial wickets with the ball in Saturday’s grand final against Wedderburn at Boort. The construction management student at Deakin University also had handy spells with the ball in his handful of home and away season games.

“The outfield was pretty slow on Saturday ... it was better to go over the top than hit the ball along the ground,” he said.

“Wedderburn gave me a few lives and second chances along the way.

“Towards the end (of the innings) and with Cam, I felt we had the run chase under control.”

FLAG SUCCESS IN 125TH YEAR

- PAGE 23

Peter Rotterham presents the grand final best player medal to Arnold’s Heath Lock after a stirring innings at the crease that included two whopping sixes at Boort on Saturday.