Loddon Herald 22 May 2025

Loddon HERALD

Circulating in the communities and districts of Boort, Bridgewater, Dingee, Inglewood, Korong Vale, Mitiamo, Newbridge, Laanecoorie, Pyramid Hill, Serpentine, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn.

Also available in Dunolly, Charlton, Wycheproof, Kerang, Marong, Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat, Golden Square and Eaglehawk.

EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Phone 0419549743

Email loddonherald@gmail.com

Web www.loddonherald.com.au

WEEKEND FORECAST

Unearthed treasures put on table

THEY’VE been found by detectorists or rediscovered after being tucked at the back of cupboards - dozens of items giving a glimpse into Inglewood’s past. And during May, Inglewood Historical Society has artefacts on display at its base in the town’s old court house built in 1860. The eclectic collection embraces Aboriginal history in the area, the Chinese who arrived

during the gold rush and old shop ephemera and souvenirs.

President Wendy Murphy said the display included two charred timber beams believed re-used when a shop was rebuilt after the great Brooke Street fire of 1862.

A coconut sent to a pen pal in Inglewood from New Guinea in World War Two also forms part of the display that will finish this Sunday.

Mrs Murphy said the society’s collection was gradually being catalogued.

“I am up to 1782 items ... there’s still more to do,” she said.

The society has recently received several donations of historic items from families with a connection to the district.

Members are also working through requests for people researching their family histories.

IN BRIEF

Fire under investigation

THE cultural burn fire at Thunder Swamp, Tandarra, last week is under investigation. CFA crews were called when the fire escaped and burnt about 50 hectares of adjoining farmland. “Forest Fire Management Victoria and DJAARA are cooperating with the Office of Bushfire Risk Management as the fire is investigated and will consider any recommendations for improvement,” said Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardman. “Planned burning will always carry risk, but careful planning and management mean very few burns breach control lines. We work with the Bureau of Meteorology to assess weather conditions, such as humidity, temperature and wind speed, and will only carry out burns when the conditions are suitable, and it is safe to do so.”

Decline in claims

RACV says there were more than 69,000 claims that originated from a minor vehicle collision in 2024 – a slight decrease on the 71,000 in 2023 and urged people to gather all necessary information is gathered and notify their insurer as soon as possible after an accident. RACV said: “The more information you can provide, the smoother the claims process will be.”

Historical society president Wendy Murphy with treasures of Inglewood’s past unearthed. LH PHOTO

Connectivity scramble

LAST-MINUTE installation of a portable satellite has kept hundreds of people in Wedderburn for the historical engine and machinery society’s annual swap met connected to the world.

Society secretary Lois Goddard said she was appalled that Wedderburn had been left without mobile and internet connectivity for more than a week while Telstra upgraded the local tower to 5G.

“The whole town was off so I rang Telstra and all they did was offer $30 off my next bill,” she said.

“So I drove half-way to Charlton to find service connectivity and rang (Mallee MP) Anne Webster’s office.

“They contacted Telstra and by Friday morning the Wi-Fi had been installed.”

Mrs Goddard said it had been disappointing that service shutdown had been tuned off during a major annual event for the town.

““We had people arriving in the days before from across the state and beyond,” she said.

“Their families were understandably worried when unable to make contact. There’s one person here with a special alarm watch to send alerts if she falls ... that wouldn’t work and neither did notifications on the VicEmergency app.”

Mrs Goddard said towns should not be left without connectivity for extended period.

Telstra started work upgrading the Wedderburn tower last Monday.

Businesses made alternative arrangements to keep trading during the week. “More than a week is a long time for no service,” Mrs Goddard said.

Telstra regional general manager for northern and western Victoria Steve Tinker said on Monday: “Upgrade works on Telstra’s Wedderburn mobile base

station is on schedule and has now been completed.

“We understand this work is disruptive and there is never a good time to perform this upgrade activity, however the benefits of increased speeds and capacity is very important.

“We do consider local events where possible in the planning

Child care study wants to build southern town case

AN UPDATED study on child care needs in Inglewood and Bridgewater will be a key next step in a push for services in Southern Loddon communities.

Inglewood and Districts Community Bank deputy chair Max Higgs said a feasibility study and business case would give current and projected data for the project.

The bank this week called for expressions of interest from consultants to conduct the study.

Mr Higgs said the bank had written to new Early Childhood Education Minister Jess Walsh after her appointment to the Albanese Government ministry last week.

Labor during the election committed $5 million towards more child care in Loddon.

Mr Higgs said the bank board sub-committee was working with Inglewood and Districts Health Services on possible child care service options.

IDHS chief executive Dallas Coghill said: “We want to find appropriate service providers for our local communities.”

According to Mr Higgs: “We want to have the data, look at prospective sites and be in a position to apply when the funding becomes available.”

Mr Higgs said the feasibility study would update work done by Loddon Shire more than five years ago. The bank has already committed $250,000 for a child care centre. The minister was contacted for comment.

of this type of activity. In Wedderburn, we supported the Wedderburn Historical Engine and Machinery Society’s swap meet by providing a Wi-Fi system to allow for EFTPOS and other internet-based activities over the weekend.”

Meanwhile, Telstra is this week upgrading its Serpentine tower.

IN BRIEF

International award

BRIDGEWATER hair stylist Chanara Schneider has been named runner-up in the Natulique Global Colour Innovation Awards. Chanara was one of 10 finalists from around the world at the award ceremony in London on Sunday night Australian time. Ergo and Mane owner Amanda Goodman was also a finalist.

Raywood burn

A PLANNED burn at Kamarooka-Hartlands Road, Kamarooka, was due to be started yesterday and continue until Saturday. The area is expected to cover 340.01 hectares.

Prescription warning

ROYAL Australian College of GPs has warned that the Victorian Government’s plan to significantly expand pharmacy prescribing powers threatens patient safety. Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes announced this week that the state’s pharmacy prescribing trial, which commenced in October 2023, will be made a permanent.

Student survey

EAST Loddon P12 College students in Years 4-12 have started the Student Attitudes to School Survey. The college uses survey data to inform future programs and direction.

Sandra Maddox, Lois Goddard and Trevor Bailey searching for signal at the swap meet. LH PHOTO

Free 24/7 urgent healthcare

Video call from your mobile or computer anywhere, anytime

Connect to highly skilled emergency doctors and nurses from Victoria’s Virtual Emergency Department

No GP referral, Medicare card or appointment needed

Register now so you’re ready to use us in the future

Scan the QR code to register now or visit: vved.au/self_registrations

Find out more at urgentcare.vic.gov.au

Dry hits farmers not on Govt’s new drought list

LODDON Shire wants to have talks with the State Government after being left out of an expanded drought-declared zone last week.

Mayor Dan Straub said farmers in southern districts of the shire had been hardest hit as the summer dry extended into autumn and decent rains were not forecast until June or July.

He said reports had been received of farmers across the shire selling livestock to pay for feed as ground cover and pasture struggled in dry conditions.

The Government added 13 more municipalities to its drought list, including Northern Grampians.

Cr Straub said he was seeking clarification on Loddon’s omission.

He said he also wanted to determine whether the absence

of a full weather station in the Loddon Shire continued to mean statistics used in determining drought conditions were from the Bendigo station.

“Without localised statistics and forecasting, we could be shafted and our farmers miss out on the assistance they need in a drought,” Cr Straub said.

According to Cr Straub, the price of feed had “gone through the roof.

Some farmers are paying up to $15,000 for a B-double load of grain to top up dwindling onfarm reserves of grain and hay.

The Government said it was “continuing to back farmers impacted by drought and dry conditions, with expanded support to deliver on-farm infrastructure grants and increase resilience into the future”.

Agriculture Minister Ros Spen-

ce said $15.9 million had been added to the drought support package.

“The on-farm drought infrastructure Grant program has already supported more than 1500 farmers in south-west Victoria and will be extended to farmers in the new and existing local government areas,” Ms Spence said last Friday.

“This drought package will support small businesses in impacted LGAs through the appointment of a small business financial counsellor.

“Acknowledging the impacts of the dry conditions across Victoria on farmer mental health, a new program will be made available state wide to help communities come together and support farmers under stress.

“The Government will extend its partnership with the National

Demand increases for financial counselling service assistance

RURAL Financial Counselling Service has seen an increase in referrals from Loddon farmers as drought conditions spread in the shire.

Financial counsellor Anna McGee said some referrals were for farmers wanting assistance to access funds to help with sowing new crops and feeding stock.

“There have definitely been referrals in the southern area of the Loddon Shire - areas like Bridgewater, Inglewood, Wedderburn, Tarnagulla - and we are still getting referrals in northern areas too,” Ms McGee said.

Rural Financial Counselling Service had been visiting Bridgewater every Tuesday since the October 2022 floods and having onproperty appointments with farmers asking for help.

She said there had been a compounding effect for farmers since 2022 with little rain. “It’s certainly tough at the moment,” Ms McGee said.

According to Ms McGee, the service had been helping Loddon farmers with applications for Regional Investment Corporation concessional loans and the farm-household allowance through Centrelink.

The 10-year loans have a five-year interest only payment period.

The allowance is a fortnightly payment for up to four years in each specific 10-year period with activity supplements up to a lifetime limit of $10,000.

Ms McGee said families on the allowance became eligible for a health care card.

Centre for Farmer Health by investing $900,000 through the Victorian Budget 2025/26 to deliver ongoing services and resources to the farming community.

:Agriculture Victoria’s farm business technical and decisionmaking support will also be made available state wide, supporting farmers to manage the impacts of increasingly difficult seasonal conditions.”

Ms Spence said Agriculture Victoria would continue to monitor conditions in the critical period leading up to spring,

“I’ve heard directly from farmers about the impact drought conditions are having on our communities – we’re continuing to back them with the support they need to tackle the challenging dry conditions across the state,” she said

Anna McGee

‘Limited package’ falls short of needs, says Hosking

FARMERS have said the latest Government drought package does not go far enough to address the pressure on rural communities.

Victorian Farmers’ Federation president Brett Hosking said that while any support is appreciated, “the limited scale of the package falls well short of what is required, especially when compared with more substantial ef-

forts in other states such as South Australia”.

“Farmers are not asking for handouts. They are asking for meaningful recognition of the strain this drought is putting on their livelihoods, their families and their mental health,” Mr. Hosking said.

“The response so far is too narrow in scope. What is urgently needed is for the government to

get out into the regions, speak directly with the farmers doing it tough, and take real action based on what they are hearing.

“There are simple regulatory shifts that could make an immediate difference, such as allowing better control of pest animals like kangaroos, or relaxing regulations to allow more high-productivity vehicles on our road networks to cart additional fodder

to feed the starving animals we are seeing on farms as a result of the drought.

“These changes would help farmers protect their stock and manage limited resources more effectively. This drought is not just about dry paddocks. It is about people, families and communities under stress. We need a more serious, co-ordinated response.” he said.

STATE BUDGET

Families are

the winners - Haylett

LODDON communities have missed out on specific funding boosts in the first raft of State Budget announcement on Tuesday.

However, Ripon MP Martha Haylett said the Government was focused on what matters most to families and delivering help with the cost of living and more investment in frontline services.

She said Budget measures included new allowance for the cost of camps, school sports and excursions for families with a health care or concession card.

Payments will increase from $154 a year for primary school students and $256 a year for secondary students to $400.

Ms Haylett also said public transport would be free for all children under 18.

Rural Councils Victoria chair Rob Amos said the Government had “sacrificed rural communities on the altar of budget repair”.

“Despite using rural communities to prop up the state’s finances, this budget fails to deliver for rural communities,” he said

“Most of the spending is pre-announced or business as usual, with very few new initiatives for rural voters.

“Investing in new schools and roads upgrades is the bare minimum we expect from government.

“Rural Victoria is bearing the brunt of tax increases with very little to show for it.

“The budget appears not to contain any new measures to support rural councils to manage the delivery essential programs and basic infrastructure with limited revenue.”

Last year’s State Budget included funding for a pedestrian cross in Wedderburn.

Work is still to start on the installation of the crossing and lights to improve pedestrian safety.

Live in Greater Bendigo, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Loddon, Macedon Ranges or Mount Alexander Shire?

We’re calling on YOU to have your say!

What is the Active Living Census?

The ALC is a community survey that asks about:

 Physical activity participation

 Fruit and vegetable consumption

 Barriers to being healthy and active

Why does your voice matter?

Your input will help guide decisions about programs, recreation spaces, and services in your community. Whether you’re active or not, it’s your chance to shape the health and wellbeing of your community – and it only takes 15-20 minutes.

Participate, don’t wait!

 Quick and confidential

 WIN your share of $10,000 in prizes!

 Open to everyone! No matter your health or activity level, we want to hear from you

First timers and veterans show they’re swap ready

HUNDREDS of people went looking for their special booty at Saturday’s annual Wedderburn Historic Engine and Machinery Society swap meet.

Dozens of stallholders had old car parts, implements and accumulated treasures displayed on tables ready for eager buyers.

Boort’s Kevin Caton had his collection of axes, planes and other tools accumulated working in Melbourne salvage yards.

“It’s time to start selling them off,” he said.

Kevin and Charlie Barnes had a busy morning at Machinery Park talking to customers about the tools.

For Craig Merlo, of Wedderburn, the swap meet was the occasion to take five-month-old dog Zoe out in public for the first time,

“This is her first outing to meet other dogs and she’s been pretty good,” he said,

Craig is restoring a HZ Holden and said he was “always on the lookout for something that might be useful”.

“You never know what you will find. Open the eyes and there’ll be something.”

Society president Trevor Bailey said stallholders had again come from across Victoria.

Mr Bailey also paid tribute to the society’s team of volunteers who had contributed to another successful swap meet.

Nats walk out of Coalition

MALLEE MP Anne Webster says the Nationals will continue fighting for the electorate and regional Australia by standing alone and ending the federal Coalition agreement with the Liberals on Tuesday,

Dr Webster, who was an assistant shadow minister and retained her seat at this month’s election said: “The Nationals took a principled position that with our strong, regionally focussed policy positions - on a permanent fund for regional Australia’s needs, on supermarkets, on nuclear as part of our energy mix and reliable mobile coverage – that it was best for now that we stand apart from the Liberal Party.

“During the last term of Parliament, The Nationals fought hard for a package of sensible and important policies that will benefit regional Australia and the future of our nation.

“These were adopted as Coalition policies and were strongly supported by local communities. Following discussions with the Leader of the Liberal Party, the Nationals do not have the assurance we need that these policies will be honoured in a future Coalition agreement.

“We will not walk away from the $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund, which would provide up to $1 billion extra funding every year for regional projects, from improving access to better health, child and aged care, through to fixing local roads and building new sporting facilities,” Dr Webster said after the announcement by leader David Littleproud.

Craig Merlo and Zoe at the swap meet (left) where Craig Hinchliffe (right) was among the buyers

Kevin Caton on his stall selling axes, tools and other items collected from salavage yards. LH PHOTOS

Double cheers from school Releasing life experiences through words

INGLWOOD Primary School students hosted a thank you lunch for their volunteers on Tuesday - a double celebration for Education Week and National Volunteer Week.

More than 20 guests, including IGA staff, hostel residents and parents, came to celebrate and enjoy the lunch prepared and served by the grade six students.

The school council thanked volunteers for their contributions to the school with Skylar Noonan saying volunteers helped “us learn new things, providing breakfast and lunch and setting up activities”.

While the older students prepared lunch, the volunteers and other students sat and talked about why they like to be involved, parent volunteer, Steph Guy said: “I help out to be a part of the community and to be involved with the school.”

Grade two student Harvey Neale said volunteers aligned with the values of the schools, saying “volunteers help us grow together and help the community”.

WISDOM from 2024 The Voice winner Reuben De Melo has spurred Loddon singing sensation Elias Lanyon to pen two new songs.

Elias, of Boort, spent a week in Perth with Reuben.

“He suggested that if you got writer’s blockl, write from the perspective of another person,” said Elias.

That tip has seen Elias recently release Watch Me Fall and preparing for the online debut of Kick Me Out Again.

“Both songs are about relationship experiences,” said Elias.

“Kick Me Out Again came about arolund three years ago after I went to Torquay for a week, clearing the head and walking the beaches and exploring Erskine Falls.

“I’ve only now got around the recording it.”

Elias said the time spent with Reuben had been inspiring and created a different approach to capturing life’s experiences in his music.

Elias continues to have a busy schedule of gigs across regional Victoria at festivals and community celebrations.

Last year he made the semi-finals of of the national terlevision program The Voice, wooing judges with his country charm and warm vocals.

Cr

Amanda, Josh and Isaac Kellogg at the volunteer lunch. LH PHOTOS

Volunteers are shown appreciation by Inglewood Primary School students on Tuesday

THE DISCOVER YOUR COUNTRY SIDE BIT

Local heroes notch up two decades

AMBULANCE Victoria’s Wedderburn first responder team has celebrated 20 years of providing pre-hospital emergency care.

It began as a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), with the first crew hitting the road on Anzac Day, 2005.

CERTs are made up of volunteer first responders and are located in less populated and more remote areas of the state. CERT members typically work within their local community, so are often first on scene and can provide immediate care until an ambulance arrives.

“Following almost a year of weekly training, the Wedderburn CERT car and pagers went live on Anzac Day 2005,” said paramedic community support co-ordinator Loddon, Josh King.

“The first volunteer crew rostered on was Lisa Barrass and Glenn Thompson. It is truly fitting that 20 years on, Glenn was once again on the roster and re-

ACOs are first responders employed on a casual basis, working on-call. They are trained to provide advanced first aid and can transport patients to hospital.

“We have come a long way from where it all began those many years ago. Transitioning from a CERT to an ACO team, getting a stretcher ambulance and our own branch, relocating to a better home in 2021, and now in 2025 being the busiest ACO team in the whole state,” Josh said.

“We are truly blessed to have the experience and wisdom of Glenn, as a founding member of the Wedderburn CERT, as well as Dede-jo Williams, Karen Thompson, Bruce Hargreaves and Reece Carroll who all commenced as CERT members and remain active and integral parts of the Wedderburn ACO team today.”

The Wedderburn first responder team has had several achievements over its two decades of operation, one of the highlights

individuals, who reflect the true essence of what it is to be a team and a work family,” Josh said. “We have become known as a hub for training the future paramedics of AV with many past and present paramedicine students spending time as a first responder in Wedderburn.

“Every member of the team, past and present, is a community hero and I am so proud and hon-

National Volunteers Week!

advocate for ambulance services in the area and was a very active member of the Charlton Ambu-

CERT. “Although Shirley is no longer with us, her spirit, passion and legacy live on in the Wedder-

CERT officers Bruce Hargeaves, Dede-jo Williams and Glenn Thompson (top) and the original CERT team

Renewable zone plans ‘full of contradictions’

PROPOSED renewable energy zones for Victoria released late Friday afternoon could see prime agricultural land turned into wind and solar farms.

Areas within kilometres of Boort have been included in the north-west zone under the draft Victorian Transmission Plan.

The plan also proposes doubling the existing capacity of the Bendigo-Kerang transmission line by 2035.

Prairie West’s Donald McGauchie said that planning should have been extended to other existing lines in Victoria.

He questioned the inclusion of high value agricultural country, including in the region between Bendigo and Shepparton, when more marginal land would make more sense for use by renewable energy companies.

Mr McGauchie said the draft plan could revive plans by Pacific Blue for a 250-megawatt solar farm at Prairie West.

“The zones show some of Victoria’s best agricultural land being in the proposed zones,” Mr Gauchie said.

“But those zones don’t include between Bendigo and Kerang ... it’s encouraging the existing Bendigo-Kerang line is listed for a doubling of capacity but then, why isn’t the line between Bendigo and Ballarat.

“The draft transmission plan is interesting and a typical government documentfull of contradictions.”

The plan has seven proposed renewable energy zones, and the transmission pro-

jects VicGrid says are needed to support the transition to renewable energy over the next 15 years.

“If you’re a landholder in a renewable energy zone, you can choose whether to host new wind or solar farms on your property - it’s your decision and we encourage landholders to discuss this with their neighbours. All proposed projects will continue to be subject to planning and environmental approval processes,” VicGrid said.

“Where possible, VicGrid will investigate the use of or expansion of existing easements for any new transmission lines.”

However, Loddon Mayor Dan Straub said he feared the plan would pit neighbours against each other and “the corporate structures of farming against the family structures”.

“Unfortunately, the north-west zone is in prime agricultural country and there are long-term concerns for the impact on food production,” he said.

“There is also the concerns that a neighbour of a future renewable energy project could see their own productivity and land values diminished.”

VicGrid CEO Alistair Parker said: “The transition to renewable energy will benefit all Victorians and boost regional economies, but it needs to be done right with long-term planning, certainty for industry, genuine consultation and real benefits for host communities, landholders and First Peoples.”

The map showing Victoria’s draft renewable energy zones

Energy companies already knocking on doors

THE proposed north-west renewable energy zone includes part of the controversial VNI West transmission line route and farm land near Boort that has had two wind turbine companies talking to landowners.

Acciona on Monday said it was still “working through the report” while the Meering West wind farm proponents did not make any comment.

While not in the REZ, two solar farm projects have been slated for the Loddon Shire.

Risen Energy’s Campbells Forest 205-megawatt project, originally meant to begin supplying the grid at least three years ago was last December selected as part of the Federal Government’s first Capacity Investment Scheme Tender Round

Bringing you smarter healthcare

We were pleased to host a diabetes education session for the Boort community, with a fantastic turnout! e session was presented by Esther Cross, Diabetes Educator, and was both informative and well-received. is initiative came to life following a request

to us from community member Margaret Nelson—thank you, Margaret, for highlighting the need.

We look forward to organising ongoing diabetes educator support through our valued partnership with Inglewood and Districts Health Service

Heartfelt thanks to Nursing Team

Every year on 12 May, International Nurses Day is celebrated around the world to mark the birth of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

What began as a tribute to her legacy has become a global moment to acknowledge the vital role nurses play in our health systems and communities.

Biggest Morning Tea at Boort District Health!

Our residents enjoyed a heartwarming Biggest Morning Tea celebration, complete with delicious slices, hot drinks, savoury treats, and toe-tapping music!

It was a wonderful a ernoon of community, connection, and raising awareness for a great cause.

At BDH we celebrated and thanked the critical role of nurses not only in providing quality care but also in ensuring healthcare access and equity for all communities. A heartfelt thank you to our BDH Nursing Team for the compassion, commitment, and excellence you bring every day.

to receive revenue underwriting through a capacity investment scheme agreement.

Work is yet to start on the construction of a solar farm at Derby announced in 2022. The 95-megawatt farm was one of six projects announced after the State Government’s Victorian Renewable Energy Target second round auctions.

Neither company replied to inquiries from the Loddon Herald.

Meanwhile, Loddon Shire Mayor Dan Straub last week met with local landowners on the VNI West route.

“We have had those initial talks and there are a lot of questions still to be answered,” he said. “We’ll be having more discussions with the landowners shortly.”

PAUSE ON DONATIONS

Our hospital auxiliary is currently not accepting donations of goods for the Godfrey Street Op-Shop

Half referred for skin checks

THERE has been a high referral rate after skin cancer screenings at Dingee Bush Nursing Centre with 55 per cent of people referred for checks.

The Lions V Districts Cancer Foundation van was based at Dingee for two days this month.

“There were 104 people screened and a high referral rate,” said East Loddon Lions member Jo Guthrie.

With the East Loddon club to close next month, Jo hopes a neighbouring club will support future visits of the skin cancer screening van to Dingee.

Flood warning review starts

COMMUNITY drop-in sessions

across Loddon communities next month will signal the start of a review by North Central Catchment Management Authority community flood warning systems for the Loddon River system.

The project will assess the existing flood warning arrangements for each community from Creswick through to the Murray River and include public input every step of the way.

Floodplain manager Camille White said the project would look at the suitability of current flood warning systems, identify any gaps, and work with community members, local government and emergency agencies to ensure

flood risk is clearly understood and prepared for.

“Upfront, accurate, and timely flood warnings are a key part of any community’s response to imminent flooding, which is why it’s important to get them right,” she said.

“The Loddon Flood Warning System Review is what it says it is. It’s a review of everything related to flood warnings in the entire Loddon River system, including Pyramid Creek.

“Flood warning systems can cover everything from flood education and awareness, through to digital or physical warnings, extra gauges, prediction data, and even community participation.”

Ms White said it was important everyone along the Loddon had a chance to have their say, which is why the project would include drop-in sessions, stakeholder meetings, a project steering committee and an online mapping tool.

“We want to hear from as many people as possible and we’re going above and beyond to make sure everyone along the Loddon has a chance to give us their thoughts,” Ms White said.

“We’ll be holding drop-in sessions so locals can come in when it suits them and speak to us.

“They can also call or email our staff, as well as take advantage of an online mapping tool which

means they can give their feedback from their sofas.

“The online tool is a great way for locals who can’t get into town for one of the six drop-in sessions to give us their ideas and feedback.”

The Victorian Government has contributed $178,000 to support the project.

The funding was announced in Newbridge last year by then Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes. She also said the FloodEye mapping tool would help monitor flood information for Newbridge, Bridgewater, Clunes, Echuca and Quambatook. Major flooding has hit the region twice in the last three years.

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENTS 2026

Expressions of Interest for 2026 kindergarten enrolments across Loddon Shire are now open.

Loddon Shire Council provide central enrolment for all sessional kindergarten services within the Shire.

An online form is available for families to register their interest in enrolling and re-enrolling their child in 3-year-old or 4-year-old kindergarten.

Parents and carers who would like to submit an expression of interest to enrol their child or children in a 2026 three or four-year-old kindergarten program can visit children in a 2026 three or four-year-old kindergarten program can visit https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/OurServices/Services-for-our-younger-residents/Kindergartens

Alternatively, families can use the QR code provided below

Expressions of Interest will close on July 28.

With the arrival of Early Learning Victoria in 2026 at Wedderburn P-12 school site families who wish to enrol their children in kindergarten in Wedderburn will have the option of enrolling their child in a sessional kindergarten program or an integrated kindergarten program. While we are confirming the timeframes for the new centre, interim sessional kindergarten will be offered at Wedderburn.

Data reflects rural voices

DATA from a national census will help Loddon Shire better understand priorities of local communities, said council’s tourism and economic development manager David Stretch.

Mr Stretch said the 2025 Australian Liveability Census was a”powerful opportunity to influence their region’s future”.

The nationwide research project, running until June 30, allows Loddon Shire residents, businesses and organisations to share what they value most about regional living and what improvements they would like to see in their local townships.

Mr Stretch, said the census provided an important platform for rural voices to be heard at a national level.

“This is an opportunity for Loddon Shire communities to directly influence council’s future planning priorities,” Mr Stretch said. The data we collect will help us better understand what matters most to residents across all our townships and ensure our decision-making reflects those priorities.

“Whether it’s improved roads connecting our communities, better facilities for young people, or enhanced services for our aging population, we want to hear from as many residents as possible to create a more complete picture of Loddon Shire’s needs.”

Wedderburn business owner and community advocate Cameron Steel encouraged all residents to participate. “As both a business owner and lifelong resident, I’ve seen how community feedback can drive positive change in Loddon Shire,” he said.

“This survey is a chance for everyone to have their say about what makes our regional lifestyle special and how we can make it even better for future generations.”

For more information or queries regarding the kindergarten expressions of interest, please call the Early Years Team at Loddon Shire Council on (03) 5494 1200.

Council is keen to hear from younger residents, men, and those living in outlying areas who are often underrepresented in community feedback.

The Census results will allow Loddon Shire to compare liveability metrics with similar rural communities across Australia, identify specific priority areas for improvement, make more informed decisions about resource allocation and track changes in community needs and preferences over time.

Residents can complete the census online at the council’s website before June 30.

Cam Steel

BUSHLAND SCREAMING .... RURAL

Get the message: dump bad tax

COUNTRY solidarity took to the steps of State Parliament in Melbourne on Tuesday.

Up to 10,000 had a message for Premier Jacinta Allan: dump the emergency services tax that passed through State Parliament last week.

Many had left hours before dawn. Some travelled by car or bus, others on disrupted or reduced train services.

From all corners of the state, country people united and angered. Among them hundreds of residents from Loddon communities.

There was a united front from Loddon Shire standng with local communities. Mayor Dan Straub, councillors Miki Wilson, Gavan Holt, David Weaver and Nick Angelo, himself a volunteer with the Woodstock West brigade that took itself offline after the Government got crossbench numbers to carry the vote last week.

Victorian Farmers’ Federation president Brett Hosking told the rally the past week had not been a good one to be a farmer - the

By CHRIS EARL

new tax that will jump the hit on farmers 150 per cent, release of the draft Victorian Transmission Plan and a drought announcement for some areas.

Newbridge’s Chris Ramsay dusted off an old drum from his farm shed and used it to accentuate the beating anger in the bush.

“I’ve got my farm but also lease land. The margin is already tight and with the tax, it will be even tighter,” he said.

“We’re already having a lot of pressure put on us as farmers.”

Powlett’s Geoff Canfield said the tax “will probably break us. We’re in the middle of a drought and with no income coming in for the next two years, possibly longer, how are we going to pay this tax?”

Buses from Wedderburn and Boort arrived as the rally was starting, both held up in gridlocked Melbourne traffic. They were armed with banners and placards walking up Spring

Street to the rally. The street was lined with fire trucks while a few blocks away, two trucks also blocked Flinders Street.

Other Loddon residents, including Peter McHugh, complained that at least one early morning train on the Bendigo line had a reduced number of carriages, all seats filled and passengers standing in the aisles by the second station stop in Kangaroo Flat.

Loddon farmers and firies said they attended the rally to support all country people facing a tax hike in tough times.

The Unbreakable Farmer, Warren Davies, a familiar speaker in Loddon towns, addressed the rally. He urged people to stay connected. “We need to stick together.” He was cheered with the same intensity that greeted other speakers calling on the emergency services tax to be scrapped.

Dan Straub said: “There’s been a clear message today the tax must be stopped. Council agrees with the sentiment. We are all here today ... councillors standing with our communities.”

Cheers ring out for Coalition axe pledge

OLD combatants became cheer squad leaders on Tuesday when the Coalition promised to axe the emergency services tax if it win the 2026 state election.

Volunteers from the Country Fire Authority and members of the United Firefighters Union were on the same platform with Liberal leader Brad Battin and Nationals’ counterpart Danny O’Brien.

Strange bedfellows, all admitted. Two volunteer and professional wings of firefighting in Victoria had a few years ago been at loggerheads over reforms to the services.

Country volunteers seen as more in step with Coalition policies, UFU secretary Peter Marshall and his members with Labor governments.

On the same side in the emergency services tax revolt, they jumped at roaring support for the Coalition’s commitment.

Opposition MPs labelled the new levy a “land tax by stealth”.

According to the Coalition, changes by Premier Jacinta Allan’s Government would mean a typical home valued at $1 million now attracts a $309 annual charge, while small businesses and farmers are paying thousands more without any guarantee that money will go to frontline services.

Mr Battin, said the Government was using a heartless tax hike to plug its budget black hole.

“Only Labor could try and spin a massive land tax as sup-

port for volunteers. This is not about emergency services –it’s about squeezing more cash from Victorians to pay for Labor’s budget blowouts,” Mr Battin said.

“Under our plan, the Liberals and Nationals will repeal the ESVF and return to the simpler, fairer Fire Services Property Levy – a model that funds fire services transparently, without punishing homeowners, renters and farmers.”

Mr Battin said emergency services volunteers deserve genuine support – not confusing rebate schemes and false promises.

“Labor has failed to respect our CFA and SES volunteers. Their funding model is based on deception, and we will scrap it.”

Mr O’Brien, said regional Victorians had been hit hardest by the tax. “This cruel tax deserves to be consigned to history. The Liberals and Nationals will make sure it is,” Mr O’Brien said.

“It is a tax that hits regional Victorians particularly hard –and it’s about plugging budget holes, not boosting frontline emergency services.

“Slugging farmers with a 150 per cent increase to what they previously paid is nothing short of callous amid a drought and a cost-of-living crisis.”

Mr O’Brien said a Coalition government would reinstate the fire services levy that was simpler and fairer.

Another announcement anniversary: brigade waits for new station

FOUR years after the State Government’s Budget announcement that a new fire station would be built at Serpentine, volunteers are still waiting for work to start.

The Country Fire Authority in February said construction would get underway within weeks.

Premier Jacinta Allan last month promised to be in town to turn the sod in June but Loddon Herald has been told this week that any official ceremony has been pushed back at least three weeks.

Last weekend’s official opening of a new

fire station at Natte Yallock was abruptly postponed within hours of the emergency services tax being passed by the Legislative Council.

The Country Fire Authority earlier this year said. “Funding for the (Serpentine) station is $3.2 million.”

It will be the first new station built in the Loddon since 2019. Powlett’s new headquarters was opened in September 2015 and cost $260,000 while the new Inglewood station opened in 2019 with a price tag of $1.5 million.

Serpentine members were among Loddon brigades protesting in Melbourne on Tuesday. Among other brigades at the rally were Newbridge, Woodstock West, Wedderburn, Fentons Creek, Boort, Powlett, Pyramid Hill and Campbells Forest.

At least six local brigades have taken themselves offline in protest against the tax.

Serpentine brigade members were among the first to arrive on the steps of Parliament House on Tuesday. Some are pictured with Rheola’s Matt Catto (right) LH PHOTO

Coalition leaders Brad Battin and Danny O’Brien pledge to scrap the emergency services tax. LH PHOTO

Wedderburn VFF members protest in Melbourne on Tuesday. LH PHOTO

BUSHLAND SCREAMING .... RURAL REVOLT OVER TAX

Petitions and meetings held around Victoria against the tax. Loddon Shire briefs Wedderburn branch of Victorian Farmers’ Federation.

MAY: Protests held in Melbourne and outside Premier Allan’s Bendigo electorate office ahead of debate resuming in Parliament. Debate deferred to last Thursday.

THURSDAY: Legislation passed in a late night sitting with support of crossbench MPs including two Loddon community representativesGreens’ Sarah Mansfield, Animal Justice Party’s Georgie Purcell. Ms Mansfield spoke in debate, Ms Purcell did not and and has not made a statement since. Under amendments carried, the increase for farmers will now be 150 per cent and principal place of residence exempt, however, the tax must first be paid and farmers then claim a rebate.

FRIDAY: Hundreds of CFA brigades take themselves offline including Rheola, Murphys Creek, Newbridge, Woodstock West and Fentons Creek. Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh says the levy s a land tax by stealth – targeting the farming community in particular – and as “socialism gone mad in Victoria”.

SATURDAY: Protest rally organised for State Budget Day. Buses from Boort and Wedderburn announced. Volunteers say the taxes will force them to pay to fight fires.

SUNDAY: CFA official opening of new Natte Yallock fire station postponed.

MONDAY: Local community protests escalate with a dozen yellow overalls placed on the Bridgewater Fire Brigade fence - visible to thousands of vehicles travelling the Calder Highway each day.

TUESDAY: Up to 10,000 people rally in Melbourne. Organisers promise to keep coming back. Protests also held in regional centres.

The Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund will be used for the CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria, SES, State Control Centre, Triple Zero and other emergency agencies. From July 1, it will replace the old fire services levy that funded the CFA and FRV.

“These changes will give emergency services the funding and equipment they need as they face natural disasters which are happening more often and becoming more destructive.”

Treasurer Jaclyn Symes

Cr Miki Wilson (right) with women from Newbridge and Campbells Forest Boort district farmers and firies arrive in Spring Street

Members of the Lockwood South brigade rally against the emergency services tax

Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh and former premier Denis Napthine Laanecoorie farmers and members of the Woodstock West brigade Dale and Brian Baker Newbridge Fire Brigade members arrived to the beat of drums from Chris Ramsay’s farm for the protest on the steps of Parliament House. Newbridge is one of at least six Loddon brigades to have taken themselves offline

Geoff and Carol Canfield Pyramid Hill’s Steve Mann Mayor Dan Straub and Cr Nick Angelo

Volunteers from the Pyramid Hill Fire Brigade at the Scrap the Tax rally

Peter and Caroline McHugh among hundreds of Loddon residents who went to Melbourne for Tuesday’s protest

WOOL REPORT

The Australian wool market had a fluctuating week, last week recording both positive and negative movements across different wool types, resulting in very little change to the overall market. With just six selling series remaining in the 2024/25 season, we have a more accurate picture of the national quantity offered. This week the national offering increased to 30,931 bales. Season to date there have been 1,410,070 bales put thorough the auction system, this is 226,420 less than the previous season, a reduction of 13.8%. On the opening day of selling results were mixed. The movements in the individual AWEX Micron Price Guides (MPGs) for merino fleece ranged between positive 28 cents (17.5-micron in the South) through to negative 33 cents (23-micron MPG in the South). The skirtings recoded minimal movements, the oddments reduced slightly, while the crossbred sector recorded a small overall rise. The result of these market movements was a one cent rise in the benchmark Eastern Market Indicator (EMI). This was the first daily rise in the EMI in eight selling days. The news in USD terms was not as positive, currency fluctuations meant that when viewed in USD the EMI lost ground, finishing the day 10 US cents lower. On the second day only Sydney and Melbourne were in operation and again the market movements were varied across wool types and microns. The MPG movements across all sectors ranged between positive 15 cents (28.0-micron MPG in the North) through to negative 20 cents (19.0-micron MPG in the North).

The skirting market recorded little change while the oddment sector recorded further small falls. The EMI dropped three cents for the day. A reversal in currency movement meant this time the news was positive in USD terms, the EMI gained 9 US cents for the day.

Source: AWEX

109 MIDLAND

Adam Millard | Wool | 0400 499 064

Elders Bendigo | 03 5445 6333

Craig Sharam | Branch Manager/Senior

Agronomist | 0408 188 351

Anton Mannes | Agronomist | 0499 708 044

Nigel Starick | Livestock Manager | 0408 528 322

Chris Anderson Territory Sales Manager | 0408 921 540

Glenn Jackson | Merchandise Manager | 0429 076 459

Irrigation indication released ahead of new season start

LODDON irrigators should start the new season with a high reliability water share of at least 25 per cent.

Northern Victoria resource manager

Andrew Shields updated the seasonal determinations outlook last week.

“Catchment areas across northern Victoria have received little rainfall in recent months,” Mr Shields said. “As a result, flows into the major storages have been well below average.

“Flows into the Menindee Lakes provided some additional resource in the Murray system.

“Considering these factors and an estimate of the volume carried over, seasonal determinations in the Murray, Goulburn, and Loddon systems should begin 20252026 with about 25 per cent high-reliability water shares (HRWS) or better.

“The Campaspe system is expected to receive 100 per cent HRWS on July 1 2025 under all inflow conditions due to the reserves established during 2024-2025.

“As annual systems, the seasonal determinations in the Broken and Bullarook systems rely on catchment conditions and the volume of carried over allocation.

“Due to low reserves, we anticipate seasonal determinations in both the Broken and Bullarook systems will start 2025/26 at zero per cent HRWS.

“Inflow conditions during 2025-2026

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

Lambs and sheep both sold to dearer trends.

To discuss the marketing opportunities available for your livestock, contact the McKean McGregor team. Monday, May 19th, 2025 - Bendigo Yarding: Lambs - 12,500 | Sheep - 5,500

Alex Collins - 0408 314 768

Will Lowe - 0498 381 584

Will Holt - 0417 686 814

Zeb Broadbent - 0447 002 844

Drew Stratton - 0414 576 371 Lachie McAllister - 0459 310 797

Alex Pollock - 0409 145 832

Henry Bugge - 0403 671 917

Mitch A’Vard

will determine how seasonal determinations change during the year.

Average inflow conditions should allow the Broken, Goulburn, Loddon and Bullarook systems to reach seasonal determinations of 100 per cent HRWS by midOctober 2025. Murray system seasonal determinations may not reach 100 per cent until December under average inflow conditions.

The first 2025-2026 seasonal determination announcement will be released on July 1 and will include an updated outlook and an assessment of the probability of spill in the Murray, Goulburn and Campaspe systems.

Meanwhile, Goulburn Murray Water has started its annual winter weed treatment program.

The program will see the water corporation directly treat close to 300km of channels for weeds.

GMW will do this using Flumioxazin (Payload), a herbicide it has used since 2021 due to its effectiveness on target weeds and overall low environmental impact. Manager civil and environmental services John Walker said the program had major benefits to irrigators. “We take different steps to remove aquatic weeds from our channels throughout the year, but often the best results are seen during the winter, when we can dewater channels.“

BENDIGO

SHEEP AND LAMBS

THE market was dearer across all the main weights and grades at Bendigo on Monday with mutton leading the rises as it went through another price bounce of $30 to $50/head for heavy ewes.

A few more lamb numbers came out at 11180 head yarded, while sheep supply declined to 4150 head.

There was stronger demand on the lead heavy lambs and sheep, with more processors competing and putting pressure on the dominant northern buyer.

Most lambs gained $5 to $15/ head, and often on plainer winter like quality.

Any good restocking lambs were noticeably dearer, linked into reports of very strong forward price rates being offered for slaughter lambs in July and August. Heavy export lambs from $252 to a top of $295/head on mixed quality at times. The main run of heavy crossbreds, 26-30kg cwt, from $219 to $260/ head. General run of trade lambs $175 to $220/head with select heavy trade lambs in short skins to $236/head.

Good runs of slaughter lambs were estimated as costing proces-

sors averages of 830c to 860c/kg cwt, which put the best lambs in each category near 900c/kg cwt or above.

Any reasonable quality trade Merino lambs with some fat cover were well supported at $170 to $210/head and there was some pens estimated over 800c/ kg cwt. Feeders paid from $160 to $180/head for bigger lambs to feed on, while any decent lines of small restocking lambs were much dearer than a week ago at $115 to $157/head.

Less sheep and more demand were the cornerstones of the dearer mutton sale.

There was more processors competing support on heavy sheep, while a buyer who has only watched the market recently stepped back into light mutton which lifted the plainest lines. Good pens of ewes with frame and some fat cover from $180 to a top of $263/head; lot of trade sheep from $130 to $170/head; light sheep mostly $70 to $125 for the better types with the most secondary ewes at $20 to $66/ head.

Good lines of mutton were estimated as costing processors from

560c to 640c/kg cwt. The very light sheep in score 1 condition sold at lower c/kg rates.

EXOTIC LAMBS

A & B Rhodes Shady Creek (23) $208. James Rhodes Wakool (12) $200. B Maloney Bagshot North (15) $200. A & J Wilson Tandarra (29) $174.

HOGGETS

J & K Rorke Bamawm (18) $174. A & J Wilson Tandarra (14) $166.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

Ian Angove Echuca (17) $295. M & S Foott Birchip (27) $290. XH Keighran Kyneton (8) $290. G & L McGurk Charlton (226) $280. M & A Brown Glenrowan (30) $276. HA & ER Westblade Kerang (82) $275. Geoffjoy Enterprises Kerang (31) $275. PG & DM Sexton Terrappee (71) $270. RE & SL Pedersen Kamarooka (50) $270. Donnellon Family Trust Donald (108) $269. AB & KB Broom Neereman (20) $264. WF & SG Thomas Mitiamo (43) $260. BJ & SJ Griffiths Malmsbury (46) $260. Bennelong Ag Cobramunga (19) $255. GK & TA Turnbull Bridgewater (85) $255. J S & W Brown Colbinabbin (44) $255. WB Bennett & LW McElroy Moulamein (64)

$245. JR & KA Kennedy Pyramid Hill (40)

$236. M Hall Family Trust Wychitella (83)

$226. G & P Catto Bridgewater (39)

$220. GK KM & NE Harrop Knowsley (43)

$211. Hope Avon Pty Ltd Kurting (69) $208. G & M Heather Murphys Creek (32) $196..

WOOLLY LAMBS

T Kavanagh Dingee (20) $250. Jason Bourke Moama (52) $250.

MERINO LAMBS

O’ShaNnessy Bros Donald (14) $186. G & K Lanyon Boort (113) $186. Wanbi Plains Raywood (63) $180. T Trewin Wycheproof (69) $164.

MERINO WETHERS

DC & DS Hancock Murphys Creek (14) $114.

WETHERS

A & J Wilson Tandarra (14) $180. MERINO WETHERS

Kiriwina Pty Ltd Durham Ox (150) $170. CROSSBRED EWES

JD & KJ Steel Newbridge (10) $225. Bennelong Ag Cobramunga (6) $225. Donnellon Family Trust Donald (3) $225. Yirraba Pastoral Yea (12) $224. Bernadette Moloney Bagshot North (24) $221. Foley’s Hill Charlton (64) $220. J Boyer Nagambie (36) $215. M Upton Heathcote (11) $208. Lauriston Lamb Lauriston (47) $202.

MERINO EWES

T & D Stevens Pyramid Hill (39) $200. JN & PM Byrne Pty Ltd Lake Marmal (120) $195. WI Gould and Sons Woosang (17) $183. Whinfield Farms Macorna (40) $175. P & L White Sidonia (63) $152. R Paton Callawadda (11) $120

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

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

Grant program puts $637k on table for community organisations

THE latest round in grant under the Partnerships Against Pests program opened this week.

The $5 million State Government program aims to help community-led organisations build the skills and resources to manage inva-

sive species in their area. Grants of $10,000 up to $50,000 are available for projects focused on managing established weeds and pest animals.

This new round of funding totaling $637,000 will allow groups to develop and

deliver community education programs and action for up to two years and can include up to $10,000 for capital items.

Capital items can include monitoring technology and weed and pest management equipment.

La Trobe leads weed research

A NON-TOXIC, environmentally friendly method of controlling weeds and pests in horticultural crops that has already proved successful in the United States and Europe will now be tested in Australia through a $4.74 million project led by La Trobe University.

The project, led by Dr Ali Bajwa, Senior Lecturer in Weed Science and Agronomy in the Department of Ecological, Plant & Animal Sciences and the La Trobe Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and Food, will investigate the usefulness of Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation technology in Australia.

ASD involves the use of plantbased carbon sources, moisture and plastic soil coverings to create an oxygen-deprived – or anaerobic - environment that is hostile to weeds and soil-borne pathogens, causing them to die. Once weeds are controlled, the soil microbiome can be returned to an optimal, oxygen-rich aerobic environment for growing crops, enhancing harvest quantity and quality.

ASD is in use in other countries but has not been trialled in Australia. In the US it has seen a significant reduction in weed and disease pressure in horticultural crops and is being widely adopted. The study will draw on this experience through a collaboration with researchers from Clemson University in South Carolina.

& QUIZ

Rain wait and levy uncertainty

Feelings of inequity and anger in community, writes David Weaver

AS I write this column, there is a lot of uncertainty around the shire.

The majority of Loddon, particularly the southern areas, is desperately in need of rain.

Some areas in the north received a good rain on Anzac Day, which has got most of the crop in, but it’s drying out quickly.

Adding to this uncertainty is the Emergency Services Volunteers Fund Levy which passed through Parliament last week.

This is a significant concern, as council wrote to Government earlier in the year voicing our opposition to this levy.

Mayor Cr Straub and CEO Mr Fitzgerald met personally with the Premier to express our opposition.

This levy will affect all rate payers. When speaking to residents of the Boort Ward regarding this levy, there is a feeling of anger and inequality around the new tax. I certainly didn’t become a councillor to be a tax collector for the state government.

By the time this column is pub-

lished, the Mayor and councillors will have attended the rally in Melbourne in support of Loddon ratepayers.

Surely in a cost-of-living crisis, making it more expensive to produce food is a backward step.

I don’t think a state government has ever bitten the hand that feeds it, so hard.

On a positive note, I welcomed news that the Federal Government has pledged $5 million towards child care in Loddon which is desperately needed.

The north of the shire has been deemed a priority given the lack of childcare facilities for our young families.

Additionally, the new town flood levy in Boort is progressing very well and is an outstanding example of what can be achieved when everyone is on the same page. Loddon Shire operational staff and the contractors are to be congratulated on the works completed so far.

On Anzac Day, I attended the first Dawn Service held in Mysia.

The service was very well at-

yOuR ONLINE WORDS

EMERGENCy SERVICES TaX

COPS REaDERS’ WRaTH

Leonie baker wrote: Home owners and Farmers will pay this tax more than once - more than the direct amount they will be billed. They will also pay the amount that businesses will no doubt need to pass on to consumers. Renters will not miss-out, they will have this tax passed on to them through their rent/lease, as well as the share passed on by businesses. So believe this- you will pay this tax more than once. Prepare for an increase to your everyday cost of living.

Kevin Holt wrote: Unfortunately we know that socialism only works til they run out of other people’s money!

Rylan anna adams wrote: I don’t agree with the tax, but I also don’t

agree with fire brigades going offline - not responding to any fire or road accidents. They are blaming the community for what Jacinta is doing and it’s not our fault. You sign up to be emergency service responders but now they are refusing to help the community in their time of need. At the end of the day, going offline is effecting the community, not Jacinta - she won’t be paying the consequences of someone losing their house or even loved one by the CFA going offline. Wrong way to go about it, I support the buses going to Melbourne, but not going offline.

allison Mitchell wrote: Allan needs to go! This tax needs to go, a broad acre farm is hit the hardest with this tax, a rebate with strings attached isn’t going to wash.

Michelle Miller wrote: We all need to band together and not pay it.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Loddon Herald welcomes letters to the editor from readers. Preference will be given to letters of 300 words or less and must include your name with address and phone number provided for verification (not publicaton). We reserve the right to edit letters for legal reasons. Send your letters to loddonherald@gmail.com

OPINION PIECES

The Loddon Herald welcomes receiving opinion pieces for consideration of publication. These pieces should be no more than 800 words and should be discussed with the editor before submission.

1. What breed of dog is Scooby Doo?

2. In ‘Les Misérables’ who is prisoner number 24601?

3. The Italian pasta ‘penne’ means what?

4. What sort of pastry is used for eclairs and profiteroles?

tended, and the organising committee are to be congratulated.

Adam Wright’s fly over at Dawn was very moving, as was the fly over in Boort, later in the morning.

The Boort service saw a large crowd at the hall. Alan Streader playing The Last Post in his 100th year was a highlight of the morning.

It’s wonderful to see the crowds growing each year to commemorate Anzac Day.

The Boort sub-branch of the RSL are to be commended.

To the farmers our there looking for rain, I hope you get some soon.

There has never been a drought that wasn’t broken by a decent rain, so hang in there and look after each other and remember you are not on your own, reach out if you need to.

I would like to wish everyone playing their winter sports, an injury free and enjoyable rest of the season.

David Weaver is the boort Ward councillor for Loddon Shire

5. The 1956 olympics were held in which city?

6. How many ribs does a typical human have?

7. ‘Hey Jude’ is a song sung by which famous band?

8. What name is given to the phenomenon when the moon is between the sun and the earth?

9. Howard Carter discovered the tomb of which famous historical figure?

10. A skill in basketball is a slam what?

11. What is the occupation of video game characters Mario and Luigi?

12. What is the capital city of Germany?

Matthew Phillips wrote: Andrew would be probably (proud) of her, shame bloody shame.

Mick Korong wrote: Didn’t Jacinta admit in Parliament, that it’s a tax to prop up the overspending for the crap in Melbourne?

Gail Mary ahearn wrote: Shame on you all who voted for this. You can expect your volunteers to be depleted to zero with the cost to volunteering high as it is.

Wendy McCormick wrote: Absolutely disgusting what this Government has in store for the state.

Matthew Mizzi wrote: Makes sense to strip money from our rural emergency services volunteers to pay for the Labor Government debt in Melbourne.

Jill Hobbs wrote: Absolutely disgusting.

SUPPLY and demand ... Bradley of Boort is doing his bit in Budget weeks to offer advice on balancing the books? Said it all in 10 wordsecnonomical if nothing else.

ON THE financial side of the ledger, OTF son continuing his musical journey in the Old Dart came across a Bank of England 10 shilling note the other day. Out of circulation since 1963 and bearing the signature of the chief clerk LK O’Brien who had retired the previous year. Bet there are still a few of those old tender notes sitting around in grandma’s tins.

THE world’s oldest surviving banknotes are the “Da Ming tongxing baochao” (Great Ming Circulating Treasure Note), printed during the

13. Cyberphobia is the fear of what?

14. Which war was dubbed “the war to end all wars”?

15. The Shinkansen is a high-speed train in which country?

16. What is the plural of ox?

17. What is the front portion of a boat called?

18. Au is the chemical symbol of which element?

19. What name is given to a baby kangaroo?

20. Which AFL team song uses the tune of the French national anthem?

early Ming Dynasty (1368-1398). These were first printed around 1375. The first known paper currency, however, were the “Jiaozi” promissory notes used in Sichuan, China, during the Song Dynasty (960-1279).

I N THE UK, the one pound note was issued by the Bank of England for the first time in 1797 and continued to be printed until 1984.

AND in case you didn’t know, the world’s first polymer bank note was in Australia in 1988 - in time for the bicentennial celebrations. It was the $10 denomination, four years after the $1 paper note was withdrawn, and those originals now sell for around $35. Guess they call it inflation The full series of polymer notes was introduced between 1992 and 1996.

1. Great Dane 2. Jean Valjean 3. Feather/ pen 4. Choux 5. Melbourne 6. 24 (12

buSHy TaLES BY IAN JONES

Rheola teenager Charmaine Soulsby is back on home soil after her year as a Rotary exchange student. Here she shares memories of an experience that was ...

The best decision

GOING on exchange to the Czech Republic was the best decision I have ever made.

The friends and experiences I made along the way will stay with me for the rest of my life.

It wasn’t without its ups and downs but now I can look back on them and laugh.

I travelled to so many countries in Europe like Slovakia, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Germany, France, Spain, Italy and the Vatican City as well as travelled around The Czech Republic near where I lived in Ceský Krumlov.

I went on exchange with the Rotary Youth Exchange program (with District 9800, my host club was the Bendigo Rotary Club), so I met lots of friends through them and the many events we had over the year.

I had opportunities to go on a ski trip for a week in Slovakia going snowboarding with my fellow exchange friends and it was so fun learning how to snowboard in good conditions with awesome snow, when I’d only ever been tobogganing on Mt Bulla in Australia.

I also had the opportunity to go on a Euro Tour with the Czech Rotary where we travelled to France, Spain and Italy and saw many of the wonderous sights like the Eiffel tower, the Colosseum, Pompeii and many, many more places.

Two weeks and three countries to explore doesn’t seem like enough time but somehow it was and wasn’t.

I met so many new friends through school and Rotary. Friends that I’ll keep for life and friends I still talk to after getting back in January.

They have become some of my closest friends and I will hold them with me forever. My friends from school made it so much easier to navigate school life because the school was really big and there were stairs everywhere. It took me most of the year to finally grasp where I was going.

My first friend I made messaged me on Instagram before I even started school because they knew they were getting an exchange student in their class and said that we could meet up and help me get around, if it wasn’t for her, I would have never gotten to my classes the first few days.

The friends I made through Rotary made the events we went to so much better and it was nice that we all had something in common; people who are on the other side of the world from their home countries and in a new place that they have never been to before.

I met people from Germany, Finland, Taiwan, America, Canada, Mexico, Columbia, Brazil, Italy, France and many more countries so not only did I learn about the Czech traditions, but I learnt about all these new traditions from my peers, heard their language and picked up words and phrases. Things I never would pick up in Australia.

There were so many opportunities offered by my host families. I got to go to Croatia with my host dad and some of my host siblings to go scuba diving, travelled around the Czech Republic for summer camps and small trips where I made even more friends and got to learn about them.

As well as learning about new cultures and traditions I also got to talk about the Australian cul-

ture and traditions we have, and it was nearly one of my favourite things getting to teach people about my home country and see them genuinely interested.

As us Australians like to do, I often exaggerated things about Australia, whether it was our accent, how big the spiders are or how scary the snakes are, and it was quite fun to pull their legs and see them genuinely terrified of where I live, thinking that it was like full blown carnage when in reality we are all quite happy and content and perfectly safe.

There were some downs throughout my exchange which is to be expected and one of the biggest downs I had was nearly not being allowed on my plane home because it was overbooked.

I went to get my boarding pass at the Doha airport after flying there from Prague and they said they could not let me on the flight because they had overbooked it.

I was tired, and ready to be home. In the end, they did get me on the flight thanks to a man who upgraded his seat, and it was such a relief because I did not want to wait for the next flight.

As I’ve already said going on exchange was the best decision I ever made, and I highly recommend it to everyone! I’m really grateful for the experience, thank you to the Bendigo Rotary Club for making my exchange possible.

Charmaine (centre) with Rotary exchange students in Europe

E m PLOY m ENT

RUSSELL ALLISON

16/06/66 - 10/05/25

With heavy hearts we are sad to let the community know that Russell Allison (Big Russ) has tragically passed away in a truck accident in Darwin. Jenny & Geoff (dec) Allison, Anne, Dylan, Ashley & Nikki Allison, Di, Steve, Megan & Ben Chambers, Julie, Jamie, Ethan, Jessica, Zachary Blackmore.

PHILLIP HARRISON

Deepest sympathy to Lynn and family on their sudden loss.

“Trout” was an original member fo the Loddon Valley Umpires’ Group and was well respected as an umpire with his knowledge of our great game. He will be sadly missed by all of us who had the pleasure to umpire with him. Past and Present members of the Loddon Valley Umpires’ Group

HARRISON, Phillip (Trout)

Lynne and Family our deepest sympathy

Will miss the driver and snags around the place

Golf will never be the same

Trout you gave so much to so many Phil and Jude

Phillip ‘Trout’ Harrison

The members of the Mitiamo Golf Club are deeply saddened by the passing of our great mate, Phillip ‘Trout’ Harrison. A true character of the fairways, Trout brought laughter, wit, and a sharp tongue to every round. His sledging and banter were legendary - equal parts brutal and hilarious - and the 19th hole will never be the same without him.

Trout’s presence was larger than life, and his absence will leave a silence louder than any of his one-liners.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

Rest easy, Trout. We’ll keep the banter going in your honour

HARRISON, Phillip

The Chairman, Board, Management, members of CFA North West Region and District 20 regret the passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.

TONKIN - Bernice

formerly Round, nee Gould 24.09.1929 – 12.05.2025

Passed away Peacefully at Inglewood Hostel.

Beloved wife of Cyril Round (dec.). and Ray Tonkin.

Cherished mother of Kelvin, Laurie and Debbie. Adored Granny to seven and Great Granny to four.

Loved and Respected by all

FUNERAL NOTICE

TONKIN - Bernice

A Thanksgiving Service for the life of Mrs. Bernice Tonkin will be held at Wedderburn Uniting Church, 60 High Street, Wedderburn TOMORROW (Friday, May 23) at 11am, followed by a burial at the Wedderburn Cemetery.

To view the service live, go to: www.williamfarmer.com.au/tribute-centre

IN

m E m

ORIA m

MORRISON (Fithall) Lesley June 9/2/1978 - 25/5/2021

Remembering you is easy we do it every day

Missing you is the heartache that never goes away. Your loving family and friends

100th Birthday ank You

e family of Florrie Soulsby extend their thanks to everyone who sent their good wishes, cards, presents or visited with our Mother for her 100th Birthday.

We, including our Mother, thank you all for your thoughts & kind consideration for her birthday on the 13th May 2025

Special thanks to IDHS for their support celebrating Florrie’s birthday.

Audit and Risk Committee –Independent Member Vacancy

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 preferred.

Further information, including the Audit and Risk Committee Charter and Information Pack can be found on Council’s website, www.loddon.vic.gov.au or by contacting Michelle Stedman, Director Corporate or Lisa Clue, Manager Governance on (03) 5494 1200.

Applications close at 5.00pm on Friday 30 May 2025.

Temporary Road Closure

The following road will be closed to through tra c from 19 May to 4 June 2025 for the duration of the works on the V/Line Level Crossing. Detour routes will be in place.

 Reservoir Lane, Korong Vale will be closed between Korong Vale Borung Road and Boort Wedderburn Road.

Temporary Road Closure

 The following road will be closed to through tra c from May 19 to August 19 2025 for the duration of culvert replacement works for Blind Creek Crossing on Sidney Watsons Rd. Detour routes will be in place

 Blind Creek Crossing on Sidney Watsons Rd, Pyramid Hill will be closed between Pyramid – Cohuna Rd & Old Leitchville Rd.

Loddon Shire Council is inviting passionate, proactive and results-driven individuals to join our team. If you’re looking to make an impact and play a role in shaping the future of our community, we encourage you to apply for the following opportunities:

J/267- Environmental Health O cer

 ·Permanent, full-time position

 ·Band 7 salary range - $100,154.60 to $111,273.24 per annum plus employersuperannuation

 ·Based at our Wedderburn O ce

J/124- Casual Early Childhood Teacher

 ·Casual position with exibility to choose your own days

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

 ·Positions available at all of our services

Applications for the positions above will be considered as they are received.

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.

SENIORS

Mitiamo 3.0 5.2 6.8 7.9 (51)

Newbridge 3.2 4.4 5.7 8.12 (60)

GOALS – Mitiamo: C. Tuohey 2, R. Duncan, A. Lloyd, D. Thomas, S. Wright, B. Laird. Newbridge: B. Schilling 4, T. Constable, S. Gale, J. Zimmer, B. McKinley.

BEST – Mitiamo: L. Lougoon, C. Tuohey, A. Cussen, R. Duncan, T. Rasmussen, J. Falls. Newbridge: W. Copland, J. Zimmer, T. Constable, B. Schilling, K. Friswell, J. Teasdale.

Maiden Gully

1.1 2.5 2.8 3.11 (29)

BL Serpentine 4.3 6.8 9.10 13.11 (89)

GOALS – Maiden Gully T. James, A. Monfries. BL Serpentine: J. Mellington 6, J. Addlem, R. Turner, H. Gadsden, A. Brohm, J. Murley, J. Laird, L. Crawford.

BEST – Maiden Gully: A. Robins, G. Brown, M. Hill, M. Crooks, A. Monfries, T. Jackson. BL Serpentine: C. Draper, J. Addlem, N. Kemp, A. Gladman, H. Gadsden.

Bridgewater 3.3 11.8 16.10 21.15 (141) Calivil 2.2 2.6 6.11 7.13 (55)

GOALS – Bridgewater: L. Sharp 10, O. Watt 3, B. Derrick, T. Estrada 2, H. McKinley, O. Muggleton, J. Neylon, J. Green. Calivil: H. McCarthy, L. Williams 2, C. Thompson, L. Stephens, J. Lawry.

BEST – Bridgewater: L. Sharp, H. Conway, B. Derrick, J. Martyn, A. Powell, L. Ellings. Calivil: S. Green, J. Leach, L. Fisher, R. Walsh, H. McCarthy, C. Thompson.

Pyramid Hill 4.9 9.12 17.15 19.20 (134)

Inglewood 2.0 8.0 9.0 11.6 (72)

GOALS – Pyramid Hill: R. Semmel 9, H. Goodes 3, B. Bisset 2, K. Daniels, L. Moss, S. Gunther, J. Budarick, B. Carroll. Inglewood: S. Erharter 5, B. Cotchett, T. Kennedy 2, H. Veitch, B. Napier.

BEST – Pyramid Hill: R. Semmel, K. Daniels, B. Carroll, H. Goodes, S. Gunther, B. Knight. Inglewood: T. Kennedy, B. Cotchett, F. Payne, L. Marciano, C. Stobaus, S. Erharter.

Marong 5 5 0 0 1 186.29 20 Pyramid Hill 6 5 1 0 0 158.64 20 Bridgewater 6 4 2 0 0 115.74 16

RESERVES

Pyramid

(45)

Inglewood 3.2 5.2 7.8 9.11 (65)

GOALS – Pyramid Hill: G. Quinn 4, Z. Holmes, K. Peters, R. Pollock. Inglewood: K. Simpson, M. Rowe 2, A. Lister, J. Bennett, D. Gorrie, J. Rouse, T. Kendal.

BEST – Pyramid Hill: Z. Holmes, D. Lovell, G. Quinn, M. Dingwall, R. Mitchell, G. James. Inglewood: J. Whittle, M. Rowe, C. Cohalan, J. Bennett, D. Gorrie, J. Sleep.

Maiden Gully

0.1 0.3 0.3 1.3 (9)

BL Serpentine 4.4 7.4 7.4 10.5 (65)

GOALS – Maiden Gully: J. Thompson. BL Serpentine: J. Bailey 5, D. Poulter 3, J. Podosky, D. Tineo.

BEST – Maiden Gully: H. Leech, C. Flood, H. Kleehammer, H. Devanny, E. Hunter, W. Anderson. BL Serpentine: J. Bailey, C. Davies, O. Downing, T. Clarke, Z. Hollis, D. Poulter.

GOALS – Bridgewater: N. Naughton 2, M. Baxter, Z. Hoiles, D. Daldy, O. Macfarlane, J. Roberts, T. Naughton. Calivil: E. Ritchie, C. Anderson.

BEST – Bridgewater: J. Bowen, N. Naughton, M. Baker, J. Roberts, J. McKinley, D. Daldy. Calivil: C. Anderson, J. Bombardieri, T. Dipane, E. Ritchie, J. Scott, J. Bonanno.

Mitiamo

GOALS – Mitiamo: C. Milne. Newbridge: C. Meeks 4, J. Dawkins 3, J. Murray, E. Spark, O. Friswell, B. Passalaqua, C. Van Aken.

BEST – Mitiamo: E. Hocking, D. Saliba, L. Hutchins, C. Milne, J. Pianto, A. Daley. Newbridge: C. Meeks, A. Mayo, T. Wilson, C. Van Aken, O. Friswell, A. Moore.

UNDER 18

–

(49)

Gully: L. Hancock 6, J. Wittingslow, O. Bowman, S. Neervoort 2, L. Budge, H. Carter, D. Bown, D. Wharton. East Loddon: C. Elliott, F. Clymo 2, J. Verley, B. McPherson, A. Addlem.

BEST – Maiden Gully: O. Taylor, L. Hancock, O. Bowman, T. Brook, J. Wittingslow, Z. Turner. East Loddon: C. Elliott, T. Rasmussen, F. Clymo, K. Maxted, R. Wagner, A. Weeks.

Pyramid Hill

(172) GOALS – Pyramid Hill: T. Pritchard. Inglewood: M. Pickering 12, H. Noble 4, K. McClellan, T. Lovett, T. Murphy 2, N. Winslett, R. Ing, R. Murphy, M. Lonza.

BEST – Pyramid Hill: R. Chislett, T. Pritchard, E. Ray, T. Caine, M. Caspani, J. Hercott. Inglewood: M. Pickering, T. Lovett, T. Murphy, R. Murphy, H. Noble, X. Wilson.

LODDON VALLEY

Jack Milligan wins the centre bounce for Bridgewater in the match against Calivil

Lanyon bogey secures shield

GREETED by slightly cooler conditions on Saturday, 11 players participated in the Boort annual Captain versus President match play event.

In the individual stableford results, Kevin Linehan made light of the firm conditions to record an impressive 40 points and finish two clear of Robert Johnston.

Tied for third were Shayne Morris and Peter Eicher.

Single nearest the pin prizes went to Damien Lanyon, Andrew Kane, Karen Allison and Natham Wright.

In an unprecedented event on the 1st hole, Peter Eicher and Stuart Tweddle not only knocked their tee shots onto the sand to earn a ball but they also holed their putts for birdies to pick up another.

The pair also tied each other for the nearest the pin voucher after two shots.

In the Captain versus President shield, it all came down to the last hole between the two leaders, with Damien Lanyon’s hardfought bogey enough to hold onto to his slender lead and defeat Andrew Kane and retain the shield 3-2. This weekend will see a stroke event on the Saturday at 12.30pm, with the weekend pen-

nant competition on Sunday at Wycheproof.

Tarnagulla

Tarnagulla turned on another beautiful sunny morning and such a good crowd came along for the Par Three Par-Tee.

The course was immaculate, and the sands had been preened so our putts ran true.

The winner for the women was Robyn Ravenhall with Sharon Coghill as runner up, for the men the winner was Gary Harwood while Gary Flewkerbarker was runner up. Nearest the pin was Peter Ravenhall. Tarnagulla’S next event is the Lucky Five on June 28. with tee-off at 9.30am.

This is the event where you play all nine holes, but, at morning tea, someone selects five numbers and those numbers are the five holes we count your score on.

Wedderburn

Wedderburn golf had eight players out on the green on Saturday.

Winner of the day was Tony Holt with 39 points, G. Smith was runner-up with 38 points. P. Sanderson received best 2nd on the 2nd and nearest to the pin was the 13th hole.

ABOVE: Inglewood Golf Club’s team of Helen Ward, Dianne Wayman and Carol Canfield on Monday defeated Raywood to win Bendigo District’s division two scrapes pennant.

LEFT: John Donaldson prepares for Saturday;s round at Wedderburn. LH PHOTO

From minis to Maroons: Leah’s 300

AFTER playing at Newbridge for over two decades, Saturday’s A Grade clash against Bridgewater will mark Leah Oxford’s 300th game with the club, after she joined the mini’s team in 2000.

“I can’t imagine playing anywhere else, it’s such a fantastic club to be involved in,” she said.

Leah’s devotion to Newbridge continued even when she was living away.

“I moved to East Gippsland for work for two years, so I played over there in that time, but whenever I had a bye, I would come back to Newbridge to fill in for a game,” Leah said.

In her 25 years at the club, she has only missed two seasons, after having her two children.

While her 300th game is exciting Leah’s ultimate goal is to continue playing for the club long enough that she can play a game with her daughter Evie, who is now aged four.

“I’m 31 now, so I think I’ve got a few more years left in me and hopefully I’ll be able to play with my daughter one day,” Leah said.

A Grade

“Our family is full entrenched in the club.”

Her brother Chris played his 300th game for Newbridge during the 2023 season and is still playing this season.

Mandy Dixon, Leah’s mum is the current club president and her dad, Brad, is a former president. Brad, Mandy and Chris are also all life members of the club.

Leah plans to continue to be involved with the club for many more years, she says, “I like to do some coaching again, I did a bit of coaching of junior and C Grade in the past so that’s on my list.”

Once her children are older, she hopes they also play for the club, and she can be involved with the committee like her parents and brother.

While Saturday’s game is Leah’s official 300th match, she said “they didn’t count mini’s games on the tally when I played and finals weren’t counted either, so I think it has been a few more than 300 but still exciting to hit 300 games.”

-

RUBY HYLAND

Close call for Superoos

REIGNING premier’s Mitiamo came the closest to defeat they’ve been this season on Saturday against Newbridge.

Newbridge rose to the challenge against the top team matching their score at quarter time, half time saw Newbridge seven goals ahead before Mitiamo made their come back in the final half of the game.

While the Superoos reigned supreme at the end of the day, Newbridge made them work for the win, with only a four goal victory at the final whistle.

Maiden Gully battled it out with Bears Lagoon Serpentine as they came in hard during the final quarter, but the Bears maintained their calm and took out the win with a seven goal lead.

Pyramid Hill defeated Inglewood by 49 goals while Bridgewater finished with a 31 goal lead against Calivil.

Pyramid Hill 17, 30, 41, 53, (53) d Bridgewater 10, 22, 35, 47, (47). Calivil 7, 21, 27, 30, (30) lost to Newbridge 17, 29, 39, 57, (57). Inglewood 5, 11, 24, 30, (30) lost to Mitiamo 17, 34, 49, 71, (71). Marong 15, 28, 40, 55, (55) d BL Serpentine 15, 26, 39, 47, (47).

Mitiamo 16

Pyramid

16 Newbridge 12 Bridgewater 12 Marong 12 BL Serpentine 8

Gully 4 Calivil 0

Inglewood 0

A Reserve

Pyramid Hill 9, 23, 37, 51, (51) d Bridgewater 12, 23, 32, 44, (44). Inglewood 5, 10, 11, 16, (16) lost to Mitiamo 9, 22, 29, 43, (43). Calivil 9, 16, 27, 37, (37) lost to Newbridge 11, 23, 32, 44, (44). Marong 17, 31, 46, 60, (60) d BL Serpentine 5, 11, 20, 22, (22).

Marong 16

Bridgewater 16

Pyramid Hill 14

Maiden Gully 12

Newbridge 10

Mitiamo 6

BL Serpentine 4

Calivil 2

Inglewood 0

B Grade

Pyramid Hill 7, 14, 18, 23, (23) lost to Bridgewater 7, 15, 28, 37, (37). Inglewood 3, 10, 18, 25, (25) lost to Mitiamo 14, 21, 27, 33, (33). Marong 8, 19, 32, 41, (41) d BL Serpentine 6, 14, 23, 33, (33). Calivil 6, 13, 17, 27, (27) lost to Newbridge 8, 20, 30, 41, (41).

Bridgewater 20

Newbridge 16

Marong 16

Pyramid Hill 8 Maiden Gully 8 BL Serpentine 4

4

B Reserve

Pyramid Hill 8, 16, 23, 30, (30) lost to Bridgewater 10, 14, 25, 41, (41). Inglewood 10, 29, 40, 45, (45) d Mitiamo 5, 7, 13, 17, (17). Marong 19, 39, 54, 74, (74) d BL Serpentine 7, 13, 19, 28, (28). Calivil 9, 18, 27, 38, (38) lost to Newbridge 9, 21, 36, 49, (49). Bridgewater 20

Under 17

Pyramid Hill 8, 13, 21, 28, (28) lost to Bridgewater 18, 37, 54, 74, (74). Marong 14, 21, 28, 40, (40) d BL Serpentine 6, 16, 21, 28, (28). Inglewood 8, 16, 21, 28, (28) lost to Mitiamo 11, 20, 25, 37, (37). Calivil 16, 32, 52, 66, (66) d Newbridge 10, 18, 25, 32, (32).

Under 15

Pyramid Hill 8, 13, 19, 24, (24) lost to Bridgewater 7, 13, 25, 33, (33). Inglewood 5, 18, 24, 32, (32) d Mitiamo 5, 13, 18, 26, (26). Calivil 17, 38, 61, 80, (80) d Newbridge 6, 7, 8, 10, (10). Marong 9, 14, 20, 25, (25) d BL Serpentine 3, 9, 11, 14, (14).

Under 13

Marong 7, 13, 19, 24, (24) d BL Serpentine 3, 6, 7, 9, (9).

Calivil 3, 6, 6, 11, (11) lost to Newbridge 6, 13, 26, 32, (32).

Inglewood 6, 8, 11, 15, (15) lost to Mitiamo 6, 9, 12, 17, (17). Pyramid Hill 12, 16, 24, 38, (38) d Bridgewater 1, 7, 11, 15, (15).

Newbridge’s Leah Oxford

Holly Normoyle playing for Bridgewater A Reserve

Back from break, Pies face next major test

BOORT has the chance to regain momentum on Saturday when North Central football returns from the “hockey break”.

Flying high with massive wins in the opening three rounds and then a thrilling eight-point victory over reigning premiers Sea Lake Nandaly, the Pies spluttered against Calder United.

The new side, combining Nullawil and Wycheproof Narraport, gave Boort a season’s uncharacteristic drubbing of 125 points and rocketed to top spot on the ladder.

Now mid-way through the month that could decide the season’s fortunes, Boort will need to take the points at home against Birchip Watchem this Saturday to lock in a mortgage on a top four finish.

Otherwise, it could come down to the Loddon Derby against Wedderburn - they play the Redbacks at Donaldson Park next week - and the luck of the draw.

Birchip saw the return of Ben Edwards in their clash with Wedderburn a fortnight ago, kickingseven goals.

Boort defenders will be tested if Edwards lines up this weekend but they have shown over the

PYRAMID HILL

VICTORIA

HOTEL

EST. 1874

past couple of seasons that they can make life difficult for the best in the league.

.Wedderburn looms as a genuine chance for fourth spot by the mid-way mark of the season.

The Redbacks only lost to Calder in round three by 14 points and 48 points to Birchp two weeks back. Still in the game at the final change, Wedderburn went down by 48 points.

They will be without defender Jake Pallpratt who took a twomatch ban for a striking charge in the Birchip clash.

Wedderburn plays Donald this Saturday and should easily take the points, and boost percentage. They currently sit fifth, almost 100 per cent better than Charlton who also has two wins for the season.

Donald is winless with a percentage of just 17 and although at home against Wedderburn, luck and fortune won’t change this weekend.

In other North Central league news, Birchip is holding a girls’ clinic tomorrow evening.

VICTORIA

McGhie, Wilson and Perryman can execute the quick turnover and send the Pies deep into the

PYRAMID HILL EST. 1874

forward 50. Jhye Baddeley-Kelly, who started the season with bags of goals, was held well by Calder.

HOTEL

If he’s able to shrug off tagging opponents on Saturday, the Pies are in with a chance. If not,

The friendly pub open for meals every day with Friday happy hour, trivia, raffles and a chance to win $1,000

Love our local!

Trading hours

Monday – Open 3.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

The friendly pub open for meals every day with Friday happy hour, trivia, raffles and a chance to win $1,000

Tuesday – Open 2.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Wednesday – Open Midday

Boort is heading the club championship table after five rounds.

The Pies are on 78 points, two ahead of Birchip Watchem as the pair show depth through the grades.

- CHRIS EARL

Runners-up at titles

INGLEWOOD bowlers Geoff Wilson and Bruce McClymont have finished second in the Victorian arm bowling championships.

The pair contested the titles at Warrnambool earlier this month.

Lunch from 12.00pm

Trading hours

Dinner from 6.00pm

Monday – Open 3.00pm

Pot’n’Parma Night

Dinner from 6.00pm

Thursday – Open Midday

Social Darts Night

Dinner from 5.30pm

Tuesday – Open 2.00pm

Steak’n’Pot Night

Both have been part of the state’s national championship team with Wilson having four Australian medals to his name.

Girls’ team in the medals

Friday – Open Midday

Dinner from 6.00pm  Trivia Night

Lunch from 12.00pm

Wednesday – Open Midday

Dinner from 5.30pm

Lunch from 12.00pm

Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

NORTH Central Hockey Association under 16 girls’ side finished third at the Victoriaan junior country championsips in Melbourne last week.

The girls defeated Hockey South West in Sunday afternoon’s play-off.

With Hot Bar Snacks, Meat Raffle

Pot’n’Parma Night

Thursday – Open Midday

Saturday – Open Midday

Dinner from 5.30pm

Lunch from 12.00pm

Steak’n’Pot Night

Dinner from 5.30pm

Friday – Open Midday

Sunday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

All Day Pizza Menu

Dinner from 5.30pm

Close 11.00pm

Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm With Hot Bar Snacks, Meat Raffle

A total of 47 regional teams played in 150 matches over the weekend. North Central took six teams to the championships.

Tournament season underway

LODDON Valley interleague netball teams contested the Echuca and Districts Association annual tournament on Sunday.

The 17s just missed out on finals by a couple of points, after securing four wins. They will be part of the annual Bendigo gala day next month.

Formidable pair ... Geoff Wilson and Bruce McClymont

Jake Pallpratt

Sharp shrugs tagger

FOR 30 minutes, there was a real contest in Saturday’s Loddon Valley football clash between top side Bridgewater and Calivil.

Mean Machine coach Lachie Sharp was being held and checked by a dogged Lewis Fisher.

There were scraps and scrapes and off-line shots at goal as players tried to judge the wind.

Early goals to Henry McCarthy and Lewis Williams actually had the Demons briefly ahead.

They would end the day with two goals each as would Bridgewater veteran Tyler Estrada who kicked his team’s first major.

Sharp had just one goal at the first change. Then Conway, Derrick and Martyn found their grove and Sharp shrugged off Fisher.

The coach had three goals within five minutes mid-way through the second term and was headed to 10 for the day.

Calivil’s defence was weakened when Mitch Stephens was moved into the forward zone, carrying a sore knee.

The Demons did rally with the wind in the third quarter as Sam Green and Jayden Leach continued to put in around the ground. But inaccuracy quickly diminished any chance of a comeback against a more polished Bridgewater. Another bright spot for Calivil was youngster Brodie Wagner who popped up in good defensive passages in the game.

Youngster stars in important victory for Bears

WINGER Jaxon Addlem is quickly cementing his place as a key player in Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s senior side.

The East Loddon Rams product was crucial in Saturday’s victory over Maiden Gully in what was a game of turnovers.

He was a crucial link between a half-back line where Josh Taig was superb in the first half and the forwards.

The opening quarters saw Anthony Robins, Grayson Brown, Mitch Hill and Mathew Crooks keep Maiden Gully in the hunt. The Eagles trailed on the scoreboard but were making a real first of the challenge.

Their defensive zone work was tested but

Tributes flow for ‘Trout’

TRIBUTES have flowed across the region for small businessman and sportsman Phillip Harrison who died in a workplace accident at Mitiamo last week.

The quarry operator known as “Trout” had a spectacular career as a footballer and was also a member of the Mitiamo Golf Club.

In a tribute to the former Pyramid Hill footballer, the club said: “Though Trout’s time at Pyramid Hill is just one chapter in a remarkable football journey, it was one that showcased the very best of what he brought to the game, unmatched talent, grit, and heart.

“His on-field achievements while at Pyramid Hill were nothing short of extraordinary. Trout won three club best and fairest awards, was runner-up in the league best and fairest, then went on to claim three consecutive Northern District league Barr Medals. Remarkably, he followed that up by winning the prestigious

Morrison Medal in the Goulburn Valley league the very next year.

“Trout was as tough as nails; the kind of player who gave everything, every single time he pulled on a jumper. He was one of the toughest and most determined footballers many ever had the privilege of playing with or against. “And off the field, he was a loyal mate, always great company, and a valuable contributor to the game as a coach.”

He had also played with the Mitiamo club and was a founding member of the Loddon Valley Football Umpires’ Association.

WorkSafe said It was believed the sole trader was working under the truck which was attached to a trailer when it rolled backwards, crushing him and dragging him about 40 metres before he was found about 10.20am last Tuesday.

WorkSafe is investigating.

they held Serpentine assistant coach Josh Mellington to just six goals for the day as he returns from injury.

Serpentine extended the lead at each break and ended up 60-point winners.

At Mitiamo, Newbridge came from behind in the final quarter to win by nine points.

Billy Schilling kicked four goals for Newbridge who were also well served by William Copland, Jed Zimmer and Tyler Constable while Mitiamo coach Luke Lougoon was again best for his side.

Pyramid Hil dominated the second half of its match against Inglewood who kicked nine goals straight before registering six behinds.

THE Bears have turned the corner ... a bit. They showed that against Maiden Gully on last weekend.

Their clunky start meant being down the lower end of the ladder, playing with a style down a few cogs on last season.

Sure, they’d had a tough opening draw but when you’re aspiring to be a benchmark, that should be no excuse.

And it will be the same this Saturday when they play at home at Serpentine against Mitiamo.

The Bears need the win. they should win, and anything less would be unacceptable.

Maiden Gully loss to Serpentine and this weekend flies of the hill to take on Marong at the Panther Pit. The clash for West of Bendigo honours will see Marong way too good, 10 goals at least I think.

The other big “grudge” match on Saturday in Loddon Valley football is the Battle of the Bridges.

Newbridge at home to Bridgewater and unless one plays at its best, the other puts in a shocker, Bridgewater is simply too good. Doubt that Newbridge has anyone to shut down Lachie Sharp around goals.

Could be an upset in this traditional clash but I doubt it.

The final match of the round sees Calivil host Inglewood at Rodeo Park.

Unless the Demons have chartered a plane to bring down a few footballers from the Northern Territory, they’ve little chance against Inglewood.

Sure, the Blues went down to Pyramid Hill up there at Mitchell Park. They were right there until minutes ticked in the third quarter.

Not disgraced, mind you. Many a good side has headed to Mitchell Park and returned home without the chocolate.

- GLENN CATTO

PREDICTIONS

GARY WALSH

BL Serpentine v Mitiamo

Marong v Maiden Gully

Newbridge v Bridgewater

Calivil v Inglewood

Progressive: 18.5

GLENN CATTO

BL Serpentine v Mitiamo

Marong v Maiden Gully

Newbridge v Bridgewater

Calivil v Inglewood

Progressive: 16.5

CHRIS EARL

BL Serpentine v Mitiamo

Marong v Maiden Gully

Newbridge v Bridgewater

Calivil v Inglewood

Progressive: 17.5

Jack Simons breaks free on Saturday. LH PHOTO

Bears coach Jake Wilkinson

Phillip Harrison ... remembered by clubs

Loddon HERALD sport

Thursday MAY 22, 2025

PICKERING’S PEARLER

FULL-FORWARD Mitchell

Pickering put in a pearler on Saturday.

The Inglewood youngster booted 12 goals in the Blues’ 164-point victory over Pyramid Hill.

Pickering’s marking skills in front of goal at Mitchell Park produced the first “bag” of the sixteam junior competition this season.

“There could have been more goals beside his name but Mitchell showed he is a real team player, his smart handballing helping mates also kick goals,” said Inglewood junior coach Leigh Lamprell.

Pickering, a Year 11 student at East Loddon P12 College, is in his first season with the Blues after a couple of seasons with Marong under 16s in the Bendigo junior competition.

“Inglewood is home, my mates

are there and it made sense to go into the next age group with the Blues,” Pickering said.

Pickering has now kicked 23 goals for the season and has been a regular in Inglewood’s best players.

While he has been used as an onballer at times, Pickering said he enjoyed played at fill-forward.

This season has seen Maiden Gully return to the Loddon Valley competition and the Eagles are on top of the ladder after five rounds. Marong and the Eagles are undefeated while Inglewood has dropped just one game.

According to Lamprell, the return to a six-side junior league has been good for the league. “And all teams have good numbers this year ... that’s another plus for football in the Loddon Valley.

- CHRIS EARL

Mitchell kicks best bag of junior season

Mitchell Pickering gets in kicking practice at the family’s Chenu Charolais cattle stud near Inglewood.

LH PHOTO