Loddon Herald 24 April 2024

Gina sells stake in Catalyst We Will Remember Them

Friday’s announcement came just a day after Catalyst said negotiations with the Victorian Government to build a $20 million exploration tunnel for the Four Eagles Project were about to enter into a third year.

Ms Rinehart’s “remaining substantial” Hancock Prospecting stake has been bought by Catalyst directors, senior management and institutional investors.

Catalyst’s community consultation committee, with members from Mitiamo, Pyramid Hill and other Loddon Shire districts, is expected to be briefed on progress at Four Eagles next month.

Hancock Prospecting remains a joint venture partner in Four Eagles.

Catalyst has continued some drilling near Mitiamo while it develops plans for the submission of an environmental impact statement for the proposed tunnel.

A spokesperson said: “The Victorian Government, and their department Earth Resources have been very supportive of Catalyst. Our task is to work with them to make sure we are doing what is required to deliver benefits to the state.

“The regulatory differences do mean a higher hurdle rate for projects in the state of Victoria, making some not worth the investment, but overall, we believe we have a valuable opportunity (Four Eagles) and a supportive government.”

The company’s recent focus has been on the gold-yielding Plutonic mine in Western Australia.

SERVICEMEN on honour boards at Rheola Hall will be remembered in a special Anzac service at the town’s cemetery tomorrow.

Barbara Catto has spent the last four months researching the service records of local residents who served in World War One, War Two and the Vietnam War.

And she has arranged for descendants to lay flowers on graves in a poignant tribute following the Anzac Day service at the town’s war memorial

The tribute to Edward Webb will be of significance. “He is buried in an unmarked grave. We have had a name plate made that will allow visitors to the cemetery to know Edward Webb is buried in the cemetery and

worthy of our acknowledgement.” Barbara said.

She has researched the soldiers and located photographs of them in a project of passion to remember the service of men like Edward Webb.

Born at Kingower, Edward Webb was 43 when he enlisted in 1916. He returned home the following year and died in 1923.

Anzac services will be held across the Loddon tomorrow marking the 109th anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand troops at Gallipoli.

MURALS TELL STORIES - PAGE 13

TYCOON Gina Rinehart has sold her major stake in gold miner Catalyst Metals.

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Jill snags long service milestone

WHEN Jill Ramskill moved to Mitiamo 15 years ago, the pub had already been demolished.

“There was no grog, no food, no fuel, no accommodation and no gift shop,” she said on Saturday as customers called to join celebrations marking 15 years as owner of the local store.

Jill has expanded the store to include a holiday cabin for visitors wanting to excplore the Terricks and a gift shop.

“And there’s never a weekend

when I don’t get a phone call asking if I’m still open from someone after fuel,” she said.

“The store’s open until 9pm every day and I cook food every day, well, apart from the real hot ones.

“It’s about providing a reliable service to the community.”

Jill said harvest season was a particularly busy time with trucks arriving from across the region at the silos.

“There’s only the post office

and my store in the town and we’re able to provide great social interaction. That’s important to local people,” she said.

Saturday’s milestone again saw Jill whipping up cupcakes as she has done every year on April 20 since marking the first birthday back in 2010.

This year, Jill gave out 160 of the iced cakes decorated with the number 15 alongside a sausage sizzle. “I’m still loving it here,” she said

Probe continues

AGRICULTURE Victoria’s investigation of the Halallinked Avicenna Farm on the Wimmera Highway, near Newbridge, is still to be finalised. A spokesperson said an allegation of poor animal management continued. Part of the controversial farm was bought after auction this month by Coliban Water for a future biosolids facility.

Martha’s baby news

RIPON MP Martha Haylett and husband Sam are expecting their first child in October. “Our family means the world to us and we’ve always wanted to be parents,” Ms Haylett said on Monday night. “I’m looking forward to continuing to deliver for our community, whilst also being a new mum.”

Solar modules

THE State Government will invest $20 million in RayGen Resources after the company developed photovoltaic solar modules that generate nearly 2000 times more power than traditional solar systems under a concentrated beam of sunlight. RayGen has been operating at a test facility in Newbridge since 2015 while its flagship solar and storage project is in Mildura.

Sudden passing

INGLEWOOD Post Office has been closed this week following the sudden passing at the weekend of co-owner Terry Carter.

Katy McIntosh, Jill Ramskill and Ned Gellie at the 15th birthday party in Mitiamo. LH PHOTO

‘Rainy day’ account part of council’s new budget

LODDON Shire Council wants to put $2.5 million into a special flood restoration fund.

The “rainy day” account was being discussed by councillors yesterday afternoon as they prepared to send the 2024-2025 draft budget out for public comment.

A 2.75 per cent rate rise is proposed. Garbage and recycling charges will not be increased.

The farm rate will be 12 per cent below residential and commercial properties.

Corporate director Michelle Stedman told councillors funds would be allocated annually to the flood recovery kitty and be used for “unfunded flood restoration projects” by insurance, State or Federal Government.

Loddon Shire is still waiting on approval from the State Government of restoration projects from the October 2022 flood emergency. Operations director Steve Phillips said earlier this year that approvals were being bogged in four layers of bureaucracy and he doubted works totalling more than $30 million could be finished before June 2025 when government disaster funding expired.

CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald says in the draft budget that there is good news for residents.

“However, scattered under-

Where rates will be spent

„ Full funding of Council’s ongoing commitment of community planning of $750K

„ Increased commitment to investment in information technology and cyber security

„ Strong investment in local road and related infrastructure maintenance

„ $300K allocation for works associated with the Building Asset Management Plan

„ Continued support for early years programs

„ Capital expenditure program of $6.96 million

„ No loan repayments with Council remaining debt free

neath these positives are some ever-present challenges which the organisation and councillors continue to be mindful about in how they plan for the future,” he said.

“In the ongoing response to the October 2022 floods, the Shire is expecting to receive $20 million to contribute toward reconstruction of flood damaged assets, but the continued recovery effort from this major event puts increasing pressure on council’s financial position; resilience and betterment of dated infrastruc-

ture still comes at a cost that is not entirely met by external funding or insurance claims.

“Inflationary pressures remain stubborn across the construction sector seeing the impact of rates income lessen where we all get less for our dollar in the current financial climate.

“The pace of revenue growth for the sector is not keeping up with the growth in expenses.

“These factors combined with a large, ageing asset base make it increasingly challenging to deliver our services in the same

Shire unsustainable without Fed’s fund change, says CEO

COUNCILS across Victoria would be forced to cut services without better funding from the Federal Government, chief executive officer Lincoln Fitzgerald has told Loddon Shire councillors.

They were expected yesterday afternoon to approve council making a submission to the Federal Parliament’s inquiry on the sustainability of local government.

Mr Fitzgerald said: “Federal Government funding is critical to the ongoing financial sustainability of Loddon Shire Council. The Financial Assistance Grants provide in the order of one third of council’s recurrent income to fund services and infrastructure, including road maintenance.

“A submission to this inquiry highlighting the critical role of Federal funding is of high importance to Loddon Shire Council.

With expenditure inflation outpacing income growth, council is unsustainable. If there is no change to the current funding model, local governments across Victoria will be forced to reduce services and infrastructure.”

Mr Fitzgerald said federal financial assistance grants for councils were one per cent of tax revenue when introduced in 1974. “In recent decades this amount has been reduced to just below 0.5 per cent.”

Loddon Shire is expected to ask the inquiry to recommend assistance grants return to one per cent and for development of a nationally consistent local government cost index to assist in setting a fair and equitable rate cap.

Mr Fitzgerald said forecasts showed the current funding model was unsustainable.

way that we always have. Underneath council’s positive cash result of $2.91 million is an $8.59 million deficit and that is not an isolated story.

“Deficits are forecast to continue in coming years as we draw down on cash reserves to deliver projects and programs of benefit to the community.

“But these reserves are not infinite.”

He said council was committed to working towards a financially sustainable future and “we continue to advocate for increased supports being made available to rural councils from other levels of government”.

“We also look to grow efficiencies throughout our business by exploring shared services and different ways of working. Ongoing strategic work to deepen our understanding of the Shire’s asset base will allow us to identify further improvements in how we manage these important conduits for how service levels are delivered to the community.”

Loddon Shire will remain debtfree, one of the draft budget’s highlights according to Mayor Gavan Holt.

Cr Holt said community planning would receive $750,000 and there would be strong investment in road and infrastructure maintenance

IN BRIEF

Lock up fuel

POLICE have urged farmers to lock sheds and fuel tanks after three thefts in the region last week. Senior Constable Peter Halpin, of Serpentine, said more than 8000 litres of diesel have been stolen in two of the thefts. He said incidents had been reported at Jarklin, Prairie and Leitchville. People with information or who saw suspicious vehicles in the area can contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Auction success

BOORT Amity Club held its regular Amity Auction this month, a bi-annual tradition started in 1987. Assistant secretary Sandra Poyner said the April and November auctions were a great way for people to bring along their items for auction, while many others came from far and wide to purchase the goods. She said Doug Cooper had again be an outstanding auctioneer. Amity, formed 47 years ago in Boort is preparing for its 1000th dinner this year.

Anzac at school

LOCAL veteran Ian Anderson will recite The Ode when East Loddon P12 College students hold their Anzac commemoration service at the school today.

Passing of veteran

FORMER Pyramid farmer and World War Two veteran Harvey Bawden has died in Shepparton in his 100th year.

School scores second upgrade

A NEW all-ability playground will be installed at Tarnagulla Primary School.

Principal Leigh Mellberg said the school had worked through a nine-month application process for funds from the State Government-administered Federal Government’s school upgrade program.

“The new playground equipment will let us have an activity area able to be accessed and engaging for students with higher needs,” Mr Mellberg said.

“We are pleased that all our students will have increased playground access and that they will be able to participate in playground activities.”

The project, expected to be finished by the end of the year, will include drainage works to complement the completed $2 million upgrade at the school.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett said the latest grant for Tarnagulla was one of 67 to government schools in Victoria totalling more than $48 million.

Ms Haylett said: “Students from across our region will benefit from key upgrades to school facilities, playgrounds, and amenities. I am so pleased to see funds allocated to our fantastic public schools in Linton, Nerrina, Tarnagulla, and Waubra.”

Mr Mellberg said students were returning to classrooms this week after the contractors completed final tasks in the $2 million upgrade that also included a new basketball court.

“The main building works have been finished and we’re just waiting on the tidy up and

final inspection early this week,” Mr Mellberg said.

All buildings at the school now have accessible ramps. A fulldisability access toilet including hoist and changing table for stu-

Fire Danger Period lifted

The Fire Danger Period for Loddon Shire was lifted on Monday 8 April 2024.

The CFA is reminding community members that although the Fire Danger Period has ended, it is still important to ensure that local conditions are safe for any burn-o you’re considering undertaking.

You must register your burn-o s, check weather conditions and follow local council laws and regulations.

Registering your burn-o ensures that if somebody reports smoke, the incident will be cross-checked with the burno register, which will then prevent volunteer re ghters being taken away from workplaces, families and potentially genuine emergencies.

Landowners can now register their burn-o online at www. repermits.vic.gov.au

Alternatively, you can register with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burno s@esta.vic.gov.au

For more information, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/planprepare/how-to-prepare-your-property/burning-o

dents needing that level of assistance, he said.

Funds for the major upgrade were announced in the 20202021 State Budget with a top-up of $112,000 in last year’s Bud-

get. Mr Mellberg said the school council was hoping funds could be secured to erect a roof over the new basketball court. “It’s a plan of the school to have cover for the court.”

School Student Broadband Initiative

The School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) powered by nbn is an Australian Government program that o ers free home internet to up to 30,000 families with school aged children until December 2025.

To be eligible for SSBI program, families must meet the following criteria:

 Have a child living at home that is enrolled in an Australian school (up to year 12 including Prep in Qld/Vic/Tas).

 Not have an active nbn network internet service at home. Having a mobile internet

 service does not a ect eligibility.

 Live in a premises that can access the nbn network via a standard connection.

 Not have had an active nbn connection during the previous 14 days. There are two ways to join the SSBI program:

1. Be identi ed and referred by a Nominating Organisation, or;

2. Parents/carers not currently working directly with an existing Nominating Organisation will be able to self-nominate via the National Referral Centre

https://www.anglicarevic.org.au/student-internet/ However, eligibility rules will apply, which will be determined through an assessment conducted by the NRC. For more information, please visit https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/mediacommunications-arts/internet/national-broadband-network/school-studentbroadband-initiative-ssbi

Stocktake time on Malleefowl

VOLUNTEERS checking numbers of the endangered Malleefowl across Victoria will collate their annual results in Boort next month,

The 2023-2024 breeding report will be presented by Melbourne University’s Dr Joe Benshemesh, author of the National Recovery Plan for Malleefowl, Victorian Malleefowl Recovery Group president Robyn RattrayWood said: “There are few birds in the world as interesting and industrious as the Malleefowl.

“Our group of volunteers is dedicated to the preservation of this magnificent and endangered bird,” she said.

“Working under the supervision of Dr Joe Benshemesh, volunteers undergo training in data collection and bush safety and then spend time in the field collecting data from nest sites within a defined grid in the Victorian Mallee country.”

Containers can be carted to pub

VICTORIA Hotel in Pyramid Hill this week become’s the Loddon’s fourth container deposit scheme depot.

Publican Paul Carter said containers would be received from 3pm to 5pm Tuesday to Friday and on weekends between 10am to 2pm. “We will adjust our receiving hours to people’s needs as time goes along.”

Meanwhile, the Boort depot has started receiving more crates to store returned container.

Australian Heritage FestivalInglewood Eucalyptus Distillery Museum

The Eucalyptus Distillery Museum in Inglewood is Australia’s only museum dedicated to the history of Eucalyptus Oil production. Learn about this unique species of eucalypt that grows in our region via informative talks and watch live demonstrations of Blue Mallee Eucalyptus Oil production in our model distillery.

Date: Sunday 12 May 2024 10:00am - 04:00pm

Live demonstrations at 12:00pm and 2:00pm

Entry is via Grant St, o the Calder Highway.

Lucy Buckingam, Mia Brown and Jordan Gellel at Tarnagulla Primary School. LH PHOTO

Serving up good life tips

THE first WOW dinner in five years saw Wedderburn Mechanics’ Institute Hall packed to capacity to hear the story of tennis star and sports commentator Jelena Dokic on Friday night.

The former Grand Slam semifinalist autographed copies of her best-selling books before taking to the stage with a story of resilience, strength and surivival. Her big message to more than 150 people was: No matter what happens, you can lead a happy life.”

MC Jude Hannah said Jelena’s speech reinforced the message of women being strong and brave.

Organised by Inglewood and Districts Health Service, a team of Wedderburn College students served meals while Wedderburn Lions ran the bar.

“Together, we’ve made a real impact in coming together for flood recovery resilience,” said IDHS community, consumer and volunteer engagement officer Cindy Gould. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this night.”

Jelena Dokic talks of her journey to a packed Wedderburn Mechanics’ Institute Hall on Friday night.

She is pictured (below) with Inglewood and Districts Health Service CEO Dallas Coghill, Jude Hannah, IDHS’s Cindy Gould and Boort District Health CEO Donna Doyle.

Street work contractor replaced

LODDON Shire Council has taken over the troubled $1.9 million Pyramid Hill streetscape project.

More than 12 months behind schedule, council on Monday said it had reached “a mutual agreement for the contractor to exit the project site”.

The statement said: “The council will now take on the responsibility of completing the remaining works through direct management and co-ordination of individual contractors.

“This decision was made with a primary focus on achieving the best possible outcome for the community of Pyramid Hill and need to complete the outstanding works in a timely manner.

“The council remains committed to delivering a high-quality streetscape that enhances the local area, promotes community wellbeing, and meets the needs and expectations of residents.

“Taking over the completion of the works will allow the Council to maintain control over the project’s timeline and budget, ensuring that any disruptions are minimised and that the project aligns closely with the community’s vision for the area.

“The council appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this transition.”

Work had been at a standstill in recent weeks. Council earlier this month said the contractor had suffered an injury unrelated to the project.

Last October, council said the project had experienced unexpected challenges “in particular, contractors encountering a range of previously unidentified assets underground”.

COVID had delayed awarding of a contract for the project until last May with the project’s finish date later pushed out to late 2023.

Final report hope for local insight

LODDON communities have been left waiting for a Parliamentary inquiry to assess warnings and impacts of the 2022 October floods on local towns.

Last week’s release of the Legislative Council environment and planning committee interim report was devoted to Rochester. Shepparton and Seymour.

Loddon Mayor Gavan Holt said: “We look forward to release of the final report later this year to see what the inquiry has to say about the floods that hit Newbridge and Bridgewater before impacting our northern towns.”

Bridgewater and Newbridge were first hit in the Octobert 14 floods following weeks of heavy rainfall.

The committee made six findings in its interim report. One said there was a pressing demand for comprehensive community support, including practical measures, and a critical necessity for increasing support mechanisms addressing emotional and mental impacts for an effective emergency response.

Northern Victoria Region MP Gaelle Broad said: “The report found the complex processes involved in accessing financial aid for flood recovery intensified the suffering of ... individuals, businesses, and communities.”

LH PHOTO

Natalie Finch, Jess Polkinghorne and Chelsea Gravener

Sharon Lockhart and Rachel Ellsmore

Amy Roberts and Annie Higgs

Continental vibes

TRADITIONAL rustic cooking has hit the spot with customers flocking to Inglewood’s newest food experience.

Mara Gerbino and Vic Caruso are pouring their unfettered Italian passion into creating cuisine for every taste - from burgers, pasta and pies to cupcakes and slices.

And their new Inglewood CafeBakehouse is proudly sourcing local produce to mix with reci-

pes influenced by their life experiences.

The couple have been in Inglewood for just on a decade and jumped at the chance to ignite their love of creating great food when the opportunity came up.

Vic, who came from southern Italy to Australia as a 22-yearold, is drawing on experiences as a teenager with with uncles and cousins who were among

the top chefs in Italy, Germany and Austria.

Mara says: “We are part of the town, we’ve lived here for a few years and our son goes to school here. “We love Inglewood and Inglewood Cafe-Bakehouse is adding to the dynamic and the vibe of Brooke Street.”

Inglewood Cafe-Bakehouse is open seven days a week.

Kindness of Scots shines at launch

A

PACKED

Pyramid

Hill Memorial Hall on

Sunday saw more than 100 people pay homage to Scotish emmigrants and their influence on the town.

The town’s historical society welcomed descendants of the McGillivray family that was among early settlers of the district along with surviving members of the town’s former pipe band.

Among ex-band members was Warren Rumble who won the Scots Whae Hae shortbread competition while another old band player, Ian Bartels, displayed the bagpipe chanter on which he practised many tunes until the band folded in 1973.

Society president Alan Mann welcomed visitors after a performance of pipers and drummers, including Calivil’s Glen Ray who said the Pyramid Hill Caledonian Society and Pipe Band had been generous when Calivil established its own band.

Loddon Mayor Gavan Holt opened the afternoon’s celebration and Loddon Herald managing editor Chris Earl launched the book Scots Whae Hae

River red gums under attack

A FORMER Bridgewater resident wants more action from the State Government to control corellas flocking back to the river town.

Alan Rothacker said the birds were again destroying trees and risking safety along the riverbank.

“Something needs to be done. People have to make some uncomfortable decisions,” he said. “The state of trees is not very good. They (government) can spend a fortune on waterways but not when it comes to the stripping of river red gums.”

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action said: “Recent years have seen an increase in reports of damage by Corellas to community infrastructure, recreation facilities and agricultural assets. Population increases, urban expansion, reduction in habitat and climate change have contributed to more human-wildlife interactions. This can lead to tensions between the need to control Corellas to protect assets and agriculture and increased awareness and concern for wildlife welfare. “

DEECA says a new community grants program will address agricultural, infrastructural, environmental, and social impacts of corella on communies.

Fuel reduction burns

FOREST Fire Management Victoria was yesterday to have started a controlled fuel reduction burn of 231 hectares in the Inglewood Nature Conservation Reserve. The burn, 4km north of the town, is expected to be finished by 8pm today.

A 290.47-hectare burn scheduled for Kamarooka-Tennyson Road, 7km southeast of Kamarooka for last Sunday, was cancelled.

FFMV says the burn will be rescheduled for later this week.

Trading hours

Monday – Open 3.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Social Darts Night

Tuesday – Open 2.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Trivia Night

Wednesday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Former band members Barry and Margaret McArhur, Wayne Rumble, Ron Ritchie and Ian Bartels. Jill Millsom, Marie White and Dianne McGillivray. LH PHOTOS Cheryl McKinnon, Glen Ray and Alan Mann

Old church block sale reprieve

COMMUNITY campaigners have welcomed Loddon Shire Council’s proposed backdown on plans to sell a Wedderburn block donated to the former Korong Shire Council more than 50 years ago.

Peter Goegan said the recommendation being debated by councillors at their monthly meeting yesterday afternoon was good news.

The

the visual appeal

resplendent stone Church which locals and visitors to our town greatly admire. Selling off the back block of land for housing will drastically change the aesthetic and this precious natural asset will be forsaken to permanent destruction.”

The Anglican Church in 1973 donated the land to the former Korong Shire for community use.

“It is good council takes the feelings of the community into consideration,” said Mr Goegan. “The new recommendation gives us time to get involved as a community and improve the land, and with council permission, make the block in Reef Street more user friendly.”

Councillors were yesterday afternoon expected to sign off on sale plans for the former Korong Vale and District Community Citizens’ Centre. Two objections were received, one from the town’s community planning committee.

PETER WALSH MP

YOUR VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

Mr Goegan and more than a dozen residents launched a campaign earlier this year to keep the land the Anglican Church donated for community ownership.

Mr Fitzgerald said the town had the recently-refurbished Mechanics’ Institute Hall and sports centre facilities.

Council CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald recommended to councillors that the Reef Street property be removed from a list of council land proposed to be sold.

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

— but most of all we are a community. We are in this together, and together we will get through.

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

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

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

For the latest Coronavirus information go to peterwalsh.org.au or follow us on We are in this together, and together we will get through.

Peter Walsh MP 496 High Street, Echuca 3564

Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

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

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

peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au For the latest Coronavirus information go to peterwalsh.org.au or follow us on about If you need advice or assistance with anything related to government, or in your general day-to-day life, please contact my of ce on the details below and we will do our best to help you.

5482 2039 or 1300

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

His recommendation also asked councillors to note that council periodically reviewed its property portfolio and the Reef Street block would be considered again at the next review.

Councillors received seven objections to the proposed sale. One resident wrote: “The beautifully preserved Anglican Church and its surrounding precinct is a magnificent asset to the Wedderburn community.

“Council has building assets with a replacement value of just over $60 million as part of an asset base valued in the order of $530 million. Council has insufficient income to meet the renewal of these assets and it is therefore important that Council maximises use of assets and minimises costs. Given the service level needs for Korong Vale can be met this facility is considered surplus and it is financially responsible to dispose of the asset.”

Korong Vale Community Planning Committee said if the centre was sold, proceeds should be re-invested in the town.

Please sir! Can we have more ... and dessert too?

THE controversial VNI West renewable energy transmission line project has now left rumbles in the tummies of residents scrutinising plans.

After months of headaches for landowners fearing 80-metre high towers and powerlines strung across their irrigation land, food has been the latest grumble on the agenda for Transmission Company Victoria.

Minutes of the first community reference group meeting were released last week and an action priority: Better food at meetings, and dessert as well, if you don’t mind.

The group, now with 20 members, was a smaller cohort when it first gathered at Charlton Park.

After discussing how the group would be feeding on-the-ground questions and information back to Transmission Company Victoria and concerns for landholder insurance liability, the quality of food on the table at the 6pm meeting was raised.

The minutes noted: “Improve catering at next CRG meeting, including dessert.”

Details of the menu have been scarcer

than gruel in the bowl handed to Charles Dickens’ character Oliver Twist although one group member, when questioned, has told the Loddon Herald that the request was made somewhat in jest.

However, Transmission Company Victoria took the need to provide ample sustenance seriously.

A spokesperson said: “We have taken on board the request from the community reference group members to improve catering and responded at the second meeting by providing a better range of refreshments, more suitable to the time of the meeting, and the needs of community reference group members.

“Where possible, we source catering locally.”

Meanwhile, community drop-in information sessions have been held by TCV in Kerang, Charlton and Stawell last week.

It is unknown whether refreshments extended beyond a cup of tea and sweet biscuits.

Or whether there were Twist calls of “please sir, can I have some more.”

- CHRIS EARL

Revving tractors greet TCV chiefs

A CONVOY of tractors driven by farmers opposed to the controversial VNI West renewable energy transmission line project arrived in Charlton when one of three drop-in information sessions was held last Wednesday.

Transmission Company Victoria had sessions in Charlton, Kerang and Stawell last week ahead of its expected release of a preferred 100-metre wide easement between July and September.

Protest organiser Glenden Watts said landowners want to “let TCV know that we are united and won’t be having their crap pushed on us anymore”.

He said protesters did not want to see the route changed but the project dropped.

TCV said more than 120 had attended the latest information sessions.

““The events were a great opportunity

for the project team to listen to the community. We gained valuable insights from landholders, helping us to understand their land and their businesses,” said VNI West project director Sam Magee.

TCV had environmental, agricultural and technical specialists at the sessions.

Loddon, Gannawarra, Northern Grampians and Buloke have had briefings from TCV this month.

vacant native bush block behind the Church enhances

of the

Time to say goodbye

DALIP Chawla is preparing to farewell Boort after 12 years running the town’s IGA supermarket.

The final day before handing over to new owners will be early next month and Dalip said he would look back on more than a decade in Boort with fondness.

“When we bought the supermarket, the plan was to stay here for six years. We’ve doubled that but now it is time say goodbye. We had looked around Victoria for a business and decided this was the place for us.

“I’ve loved dealing with customers, the close community where we know every-

one, something that is missing in metropolitan areas.”

Dalip said COVID had seen the business grow when people could not travel as far

“People loved the service here and they have stayed as customers,” he said.

Dalip arrived in Australia from India in 1990 where he was a qualified engineer. He returned to universitystudy and became a building surveyor before looking to move into business.

Son Ravi has followed in his father’s footsteps as an engineer while daughter Mansi had been by her father’s side in growing the Boort business.

We’ll stick to our own business: Fitzgerald

IF IT’S not a function of local government, don’t expect Loddon Shire to stray into making decisions on nuclear power plants, social engineering or migration numbers.

Councillors were yesterday afternoon debating a report from CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald for a new policy dictating that council sticks to its own business.

“Establishing (a) formal positions of

council policy formalises council’s current unwritten approach of not adopting a position on matters that are the subject of a State or Federal referendum or are international matters over which Council has no authority or responsibility,” he said.

See next week’s Loddon Herald for a full report on yesterday’s debate and analysis of the proposed policy.

Dalip Chawla and daughter Mansi begin saying farewells at the Boort supermarket. LH PHOTO

The Australian wool market has recorded an overall positive movement last week, for the first time since the beginning of March (Week 36), with the week again heavily influenced by currency movement. Of interest this week, the annual International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) Congress was held in Adelaide. The IWTO Congress is “the annual gathering of the entire wool industry, connecting farm and fashion and attracting the most influential players within the global wool and textile industry”. The national offering fell by 6,468 bales, with 43,680 bales available to the trade. This smaller offering has pushed the year-on-year total below last season for the first time since September. There have been 7,614 fewer bales put through the auction system compared to the previous season. The market was driven by solid increases in the merino fleece types. This was reflected in the Micron Price Guides (MPGs) across the country, which rose by between 8 and 53 cents, the largest rises were felt in the North and West, as these centres were yet to realise the gains recorded in the stand-alone Melbourne sale of last week. With positive movements also recorded in the skirting, crossbred and oddment sectors the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) added 16 cents for the series, closing at 1,158 cents. As mentioned earlier, a weaker Australian dollar (the AUD lost 0.98 cents since the close of the previous series) meant when viewed in US dollar terms, the EMI closed marginally lower. The EMI fell by 1 US cent for the week, closing at 743 cents. The higher prices on offer were welcomed by most sellers, resulting in just 3.4% of the national offering being passed in. This was the lowest passed in rate for the season. This week’s offering is of a similar size. There are currently 44,356 bales on offer in Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle.

Source: AWEX

BENDIGO

109 MIDLAND HIGHWAY, EPSOM

Phone 03 5455 6333 Fax 03 5448 3936

Branch Manager & Senior Agronomist

Craig Sharam 0408 188 351

Wool - Adam Millard 0400 499 064

Livestock - Nigel Starick 0408 528 322

Wade Broadstock 0427 337 231

Lachie McAlister 0428 717 403

Chris Anderson 0408 921 540

Merchandise - Glenn Jackson 0429 076 459

Agronomy - Anton Mannes 0499 708 044

Josh Mcleod 0447 678 609

SHEEP

THERE was a big pullback in lamb numbers with just 7430 yarded at Bendigo on Monday, half the supply of a week ago. Agents said farmers didn’t want to sell into a short week with the Anzac Day public holiday on Thursday, especially after a difficult and cheaper sale the previous Monday.

The most significant cut to supply was in the light lamb categories, with a lot less plainer conditioned lambs under 22kg offered.

Prices did strengthen for all categories of lambs today. Light lambs gained up to $20/head, while trade and heavy slaughter lambs were $10 to $20/head dearer. This pushed most of the good trade and export slaughter lambs back up into the 665c to 690c/kg range, with just occasional bounces over 700c/kg for really well presented shorn tradies.

Export lambs over 30kg cwt sold from $210 to a top of $236 on less weight than a week ago. Most of the lead pens of crossbred lambs were in the 26-30kg cwt range and sold from $165 to $223 at a ballpark cost of 670c/kg cwt.

Heavy trade lambs $156 to $177/head and there was some price spikes in this category that helped take the overall average to around 680c/kg cwt. Limited numbers of light lambs helped support the market at $80 to $130 for the better bred lines under 22kg cwt.

There was a stand-out pen of heavy Merino lambs in a skin which sold for $180, but light Merinos lacking fat cover and weight still struggled at times. Sheep numbers remained similar at 5600 head, agents suggesting the dry conditions were influencing supply.

The mutton market opened strongly before it settled down Most sheep made an estimated 250c to 290c/kg cwt, with

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

Heavy lambs experienced a significant price increase amidst a very light yarding, while sheep prices remained fairly consistent with last week.

some early sales over 300c/kg cwt. Heavy crossbred ewes $80 to $121; good Merino wethers $76 to $106; and Heavy Merino ewes to $114. Overall the majority of sheep still tracked between $40 and $80/head.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

PA Condely Lake Meran (27) $236. Colvin Family Farm Eppalock (90) $234. P & T Colvin Powlett Plains (89) $230. GJ & GM Bremner P/L Quambatook (38) $228. Sandyridge Kerang (62) $223. DI Gitsham & Sons Kerang (34) $220. C Graham Family Arnold (44) $220. Fairfields @ Mysia Mysia (39) $214. A & T Cole Neilborough (43) $210. FJ & MM Deane Wahrung (37) $208. Toomey Bros Romsey (51) $195. I & P Durie Wycheproof (61) $193. T & D Roberts Charlton (29) $192. Rob Neilson Baringhup (62) $179.

MERINO LAMBS

T & G O’Neill Canary Island (41) $180.

CROSSBRED EWES

Black on Green Maindample (104) $106. Potter’s Hill Barraport (79) $88.

MERINO EWES

D & R Hannigan Ballarat (44) $114. D & S Twigg Pyramid Hill (47) $103.

Order of sales next Monday: Nutrien, Nuttall, McKean McGregor, Elders, Nevins. SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

GRAIN

BOORT Grain Co-op prices on Monday. Wheat - H1 $355.25 FIS. H2 $343 FIS. APW

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

Irrigators talk on drainage plans

THE first consultation session on a draft Loddon-Murray Irrigation Region Irrigation Drainage Strategy was held in Pyramid Hill on Monday.

North Central Catchment Management Authority went to irrigators in the Loddon district after requests from local farmers.

The new strategy has a focus on irrigation-induced rainfall runoff, but will not address floodwaters.

North Central CMA says the strategy will recognise the changing climate and irrigation water-use trends over the past two decades.

“Adaptable drainage schemes are deemed essential to support evolving farming systems and address groundwater level fluctuations,” it said.

“The strategy outlines key components, including the need for a coordinated approach to drainage, climate change impact assessment, definition of drainage functions in specific waterways, quantification of drainage water disposal impacts, clear government and landholder roles and responsibilities, and an extension program

incentivising on-farm drainage management improvement.”

North Central CMA said it wanted irrigators to assess current drainage status, associated risks, and potential future needs. “The strategy also reinforces the importance of existing approaches such as drainage course declarations (DCDs) to facilitate co-operation in managing obstructions to restore water flow, especially in unique areas like the Bullock Creek catchment.

“This surface strategy documents the ongoing need for an irrigation drainage program and explores contemporary approaches to drainage across the LoddonMurray Irrigation Region.

“It provides the context for stakeholders who are interested in understanding irrigation drainage in the irrigation region. and clarifies their roles and responsibilities and the rationale for funding identified actions. This strategy is to be reviewed prior to the development of the 2027-32 North Central Regional Catchment Strategy.”

Yarraberb farm sells at auction

LOCAL farmers have purchased a 287acre property at Yarraberb after being auctioned on Friday.

Agent Drew Stratton, of McKean McGregor, said the auction at Campbells Forest Hall had been well attended.

While passed in at the reserve price, Mr

Stratton said the property was sold soon after auction.

Featuring two paddocks with two dams (one road fill, one windmill fed) the property was described as having about half with a good stand of lucerne.

The sale price has not been disclosed.

With a combination of eradication, containment, and prevention strategies tailored to the specific needs and characteristics.

Plus some positive stories about weed control efforts in our area.

FEATURES | OPINION AND QUIZ

Don’t let airbrush touch Anzac spirit

By CHRIS EARL

AS DEEP lead mining was petering out and Melbourne for the first time in history had a population greater than country Victoria, Australia and the world was on edge.

The time was the second decade of the 20th century, 110 years ago to be precise and dark clouds of war were looming.

Volunteer militia in Loddon communities, serving King and Empire, were alert and ready to enlist for action on the other side of the world.

The colonial spirit of adventure ready to be put to the test and show the powers of Britain that the fledgling nation on the other side of the world could, and would, make a contribution even greater than the weight of our gold.

When what we now call World War One was declared in July 1914, local men began to enlist. Some were among those who landed on the doomed beaches of Gallipoli, others arrived on the bloody Western Front.

Some like Bridgewater’s Private CT Atherton would be recognised for bravery in the field.

Atherton, had military service in his blood. A relative, General Sir Alex Cameron, had been knighted for conspicuous bravery at the Battle of Waterloo.

Atherton’s brother Hugh tried three times to enlist, even though when the Armistice was declared in 1918, he was still

ANZAC PERSPECtIVE

only 17 and working at the flour mills in Bridgewater.

Stories like that of the Athertons can be found in every local community, where soldiers were farewelled and welcomed home to the strains of local brass bands, or in the case of Pyramid Hill, joined by Scottish pipers living in the district.

These occasions were formalised with Anzac commemorations. Old soldiers still marching to the beat of service and receiving applause and appreciation from their townfolk.

More than a century later, the brass and pipe bands of Loddon communities are no more. The soldiers, and nurses, of World War One long gone to their eternal rest and increasingly joined from around Australia by those who followed those same footsteps of service in World War Two.

Much less than 7000 men who served in skies above Europe, in the jungles of Asia and on the Pacific in World War Two are still alive.

Every Australian who has taken up arms in the name of freedom and democracy would have preferred war had not come along and disrupted their lives and those of families and communities.

But they held firmly to principles and beliefs about what type of Australia, and world, they

PRIORITY LIST FOR CALDER HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS

Peter Williams wrote: Not that the minor roads need any fixing up, so that’s more to spend on the highways isn’t it? If you don’t live near a highway you’re second class.

Jill Hobbs wrote: Preferably replace …. or widen and repair the bridge over the Loddon at Bridgewater on Loddon.

S Smith wrote: There urgently needs to be traffic lights at Marong Intersection of the Calder Highway and Calder

wanted for future generations and were prepapred to, if necessary, pay the ultimate sacrifice.

Their stories are so important in providing continual guidance in charting the future of our local towns.

Some stories will be shared tomorrow at Anzac commemorations. Many more remain to be discovered or rediscovered.

Last Sunday, I had the honour of launching the Pyramid Hill Historical Society’s latest book release, Scots Whae Hae.

Throughout that book, was reference to the local pipe band and its role on Anzac Day and at other important community and civic events.

That publication helps us share more of those stories and understand how those who served in the military in war and other conflicts from the Boer War through to today’s peacekeeping operations have shaped who and what we are today.

The current PC-mantra can see our past airbrushed from the history pages.

Anzac Day again provides the counter to any myopic in the appreciation and awareness of our history.

Tomorrow, take time to attend an Anzac Day service. Think about past service and sacrifice and how we can have history positively and respectfully guiding our future.

Alternate Highway where it has become a free for all. We have witnessed several near misses by cars and trucks turning from the interchange and not giving way, thinking they can just slip into the Calder between the turning traffic that has slowed down. One car travelling south actually turned right from the Calder into wrong side of the alternative highway by illegally going around behind a truck which was positioned stationary.

20 QUESTION QUIZ

1. Diastema is the clinical term for the gap between what in the human body?

2. Scallion is another name for which vegetable?

3. American musician Glenn Miller played which instrument?

4. In the comic books, what is the name of Asterix’ best friend?

5. Which acid found in bee venom causes the pain from a bee sting?

6. What is the international dialing code for Australia?

7. Cape Wrath is on the coast of which country?

8. What would someone usually do with perique?

9. The Galapagos Islands lie in which body of water?

10. What would you call a small lift that carries food

between floors in a building?

11. The nave is a section of which type of building?

12. What is the Russian term for an astronaut?

13. The song genre ‘Bolero’ originated in which country?

14. Is brass an element on the periodic table?

15. If something is ligneous, it is made/consisting of or resembling what substance?

16. The rider with the fastest total time across the entire Tour de France wears which colour jersey?

17. What is the main ingredient in a frittata?

18. What is the largest joint in the human body?

19. How many stars appear on the Victoria?

20. Vermillion is a shade of which colour?

ANSWERS

A ROUND the Loddon, there are chief executive officers of big organisations who often sit down around the same table. Two did that just last week and immediately began comparing the style and quality of official corporate pens. This healthy competition, saw one CEO see the pen swiftly put into another’s shirt pocket. “The corporate merch is competitive ... and ours is now endorsed by a neighbour,” came the quip, or something like it anyway.

LUCKY for them OTF wasn’t at the same table. Have a terrible habit of collecting pens for temporary use. At the moment, one from the National Tractor Trek in Wedderburn the other year is ranking as the favourite for grip and ink flow.

D ONUTS were courtside in Boort on Saturday night. As OTF readers may recall, the C Grade premiership netball team has immersed itself in tradition of having the cinnamon sprinkled treats after every win. Players kept up tradition, even steering clear of jelly slices arranged in

the special VIP tent for the day.

B Y THE way, jelly slice is a percularly Aussie and Kiwi thing. Red jelly wobbling on top of course!

O NE RSL had a light turnout for Friday night fellowship. With women at the WOW dinner around the corner in Wedderburn, the blokes dubbed it their “buck’s night”.

D ID your know? History books show that buck’s parties date back to the 5th century when Spartan soldiers hosted rowdy dinners to honor the groom before a wedding

H EAR one Loddon office is trialling banana consumption to create antitheft devices.

Artist’s tribute triggers conversation and memories

Stories that must be told

By CHRIS EARL

TEAMWORK has created the latest murals triggering conversation and memories in Brooke Street Inglewood.

Marilyn and Geoff Cumming have paid their special tribute to soldiers of the district with the latest in a series of murals on the Inglewood IGA facade.

“I wanted to incorporate the military aspect of life in the Inglewood community last century,” said Marilyn after Terry and Steve Simons finished putting up the last panel on Thursday.

“That military connection was paramount to the selection of people I would draw this year. Anzac Day is an opportunity to tell their stories in war and in their community involvement and that of their families.”

Geoff said: “There’s a few themes to their involvement - the football club, business and then there’s the local brass band playing as they left or returned.”

“Kevin Poyser and David Rose helped with my research. These are stories that should be told and kept front of mind.”

Stories of the Donaldsons, Puckeys and Gillespies have been researched by Geoff. Marilyn said: “Geoff does the delving, I do the painting.”

And Marilyn believes telling these stories is important for today’s younger generations to understand the service of people in the military last century.

“I had a 19-year-old visit home and I said read this. He said ‘this can’t be true’.”

Geoff said today’s generation did not have the connection with the sacrifices made by soldiers in World War One and World War Two and Marilyn’s ongoing mural project was one way to bridge the gap.

Marilyn and Geoff said they were fascinated with the story of Dern Puckey.

He worked with Bridgewater saddlers Wylie Brothers after leaving school within months of the end of World War One.

Dern moved to Inglewood in 1930 and would run his business in Brooke Street until 1960.

When the world was again at war after 1939, Dern enlisted in the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces and ended up with the Volunteer Defence Corp, Australia’s answer to Britain’s Home Guard.

The Inglewood unit practised shooting at the local rifle range, went on bivouacs to Rose Hill and marched in local processions behind the town brass band.

Local unit members manned a lookout from the town hall tower and made sure lights were out in homes around town before the 11pm blackout each night.

John Donaldson became licensee of

the Pelican Hotel in 1907. Son Jack was a world champion sprinter, two other sons Donald and Frank served on the Western Front in World War One - Frank was killed at Fromelles when he was just 21, Don had his foot amputated after being shot while comforting his dying brother on that fateful July 19, 1916, day when almost 2000 Australians were killed.

Alan Gillespie, the steam engine driver from Kingower, was luckier. He had been co-proprietor of the Turpie and Gillespie Garage (later Appleby Motors) but enlisted and became a corporal in the 4th Australian Mechanical Transport Company.

He saw action in France and Belgium and made it home in July 1919.

Marilyn’s previous Anzac tribute murals have now been put on display further down Brooke Street - tributes eternally sharing stories of service and sacrifice.

Anzac Day commemorations in our communities

Marilyn Cumming, Steve and Terry Simons and Geoff Cumming. LH PHOTO

Intention to sell - Arnold

Loddon Shire Council gives notice under section 114 (2)(b) of the Local Government Act 2020 and in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy, that it intends to sell land located at:

 Allot. 16E Sec. C Parish of Tarnagulla, located o Dunolly-Inglewood Road, Arnold 3551

The land has no council or community purpose and as such is recognised as surplus to Council needs.

A person may make a submission on Council’s intention. Submissions must be received by close of business on Thursday 23 May 2024, and should be addressed to the Chief Executive O cer, Loddon Shire Council, PO Box 21, Wedderburn 3518 or via email to executive@loddon.vic.gov.au.

Any person who has made a written submission to Council may request in writing to be heard in person in support of the written submission or by a person acting on their behalf before Council at a time and date to be advised.

Any queries can be directed to Christine Coombes, Executive Services O cer, on 5494 1200 or via email executive@loddon.vic.gov.au.

Annual General Meeting will be held on 8th May 2024

Venue: Boort Angling club rooms

Start Time: 7.30pm

All present and potential new members are welcome.

wanted to buy

WANTED TO BUY

Old bottles with town or company names.

Marble bottles, Ginger Beer, Milk Bottles, Soda Syphons

Any old bottles - single items or box lots

CASH PAID ON DAY

Phone 0452 264 661

LODDON HERALD CLASSIFIED

CONNECT

employment

Eicher finishes two up on pack

WITH the course still green but starting to dry out, the sunny conditions were ideal for scoring in the stroke event at Boort Golf Club.

Peter Eicher followed up his win on opening weekend with another victory after shooting a solid 89 off the stick to finish two shots ahead of the pack with a nett 65.

Damien Lanyon and Will Perryman managed nett 67 while Stuart Tweddle scored nett 69.

In the nearest the pins, Scott Rollinson took out the first hole for the second week in a row, while Eicher, Gaye Sim, Kevin Linehan and Kate Perryman claimed the other prizes.

In the annual President versus

Captain match-play competition, it was new president Lanyon who beat captain Andrew Kane in a 4 to 1 result.

This week sees a return to a Saturday draw for the stableford competition.

INGLEWOOD

Ideal weather conditions and a dry track greeted the small field at Inglewood Golf Club on Sunday.

Captain Tim Johns decided to test players in the second week of competition with the par format.

David ‘Patto’ Patterson won the day and will be answering to the handicapper after finishing +4, hardly missing a fairway all day

and sinking putts for fun as he continues to improve each week.

Nathan Joyner took out his first nearest the pin award on the ninth hole after going close a few times.

WEDDERBURN

Vicky Bainbridge was the star of the day with a fine nett 69 off a 27 handicap to win the stroke event.

Runner-up was Jon Chandler, playing off a 17 handicap, who finished with a nett 73.

Liam McNeill won the 2 on 2 contest.

Other nett results: C. Nesbit 75, K. Lewis 76, C. McHugh 79, O. Bailey 81, T. Holt 81, L. McNeill 79, J. Millie 85, G. Bird 77, G. Smith 83, G. Weston 80.

From novice to champion in a short time

FOR BOORT’S Denise McDougal, after only two years of playing croquet, making the Victorian Regional Golf Croquet Championships in Melbourne last weekend was a feat in itself.

Boort’s Maddison Slatter in action against Boort. LH PHOTO

NORTH CENTRAL HOCKEY

Under 12: Wycheproof Narraport lost to St Arnaud 0-2, Birchip Watchem d Donald 5-0. Boort lost to Charlton 0-3.

“It was fantastic. A great experience,” she said.

“I got to meet a lot of people.

McDougal won four of her 12 matches in the level three section, after qualifying by winning the Murray Valley Region Championships.

Croquet is one of the most social games you could ever play.”

Ian Potter represented Boort and the Murray Valley region in level one, winning eight of his 12 games at the Victorian Croquet Centre in Cairnlea.

Underage: Sea Lake Nandaly d Wedderburn Redbacks 8-1, Wycheproof Narraport lost to St Arnaud 0-4, Birchip Watchem lost to Donald 0-3, Boort (Jame O’Flaherty, Abby Potter) lost to Charlton 2-4.

Women: Sea Lake Nandaly d Wedderburn Redbacks 11-0, Wycheproof Narraport lost to St Arnaud 1-2, Birchip Watchem lost to Donald 2-3, Boort (Jacquie Challis, Sharne Muller) lost to Charlton 2-7.

Men: Wycheproof Narraport d St Arnaud 4-0, Birchip Watchem lost to Donald 1-7, Boort (Sidney Caine 2, Zac Poxon 2, Harry Malone, Alister Knight) d Charlton 6.1.

Double joy on Magpie courts

BOORT was in a triumphant mood for its first home game of the 2024 season.

The club unveiled the premiership pennant for last year’s victorious C Grade side and officially opened the refurbished courts. The honour of cutting the ribbon was given to club and North Central association life member Margaret Nelson.

President Roxy Train thanked

Third term changes unlucky

WEDDERBURN has fallen to a shock defeat against Sea Lake Nandaly in round two of the North Central netball season, giving up an eight-goal half-time lead to lose by four goals.

The Redbacks were well on top throughout the first half but managed only four goals in the third quarter to the Tigers’ 15.

Coach Emma Lockhart said she made some changes in mid-court at half-time “to try some different things” as she strives to find her best lineup.

“If I had my time again, I would not make those changes, but it’s for the greater benefit.”

The third quarter proved decisive, with the final term all but even as Sea Lake Nandaly scored 13 goals to Wedderburn’s 12.

Defenders Courtney Gleeson and Holly Lockhart, who played an unfamiliar role as goal defence after being a goaler last season and in round one, were best for the Redbacks.

Boort won an emotion-charged clash with Charlton, who were playing their first game since the death of young star Maddison Fitzpatrick, who died recently of cancer aged 18.

The Magpies won 42-26, after leading comfortably at every change, with wing defence Grace Hosking their best player.

Coach Georgia Haw said Hosking and goalkeeper Roxy Train managed to comprehensively shut down Charlton’s attackers and “did a lot of the one-percenters”.

Boort is on top of the ladder at this early stage of the season with two wins from two, ahead of Wedderburn in second place.

Boort has the bye this weekend, while Wedderburn faces Charlton.

LODDON VALLEY

Loddon Shire and Graincorp for support in financing the project. Watching on from a special VIP marquee were three other club members, Heather Jeffries, Marj Potter and Kristen Good

ing. The club’s other life members Judy Parker and Leanne Moresi were unable to attend the celebrations at the clash against Charlton under lights.

(4)

to

United 10, 20, 31, 39, (39). Inglewood 13, 17, 34, 46, (46) d BL Serpentine 0, 3, 4, 6, (6). Maiden Gully 3, 5, 10, 13, (13) lost to Bridgewater 2, 7, 14, 24, (24). Marong 800.00 8 Calivil United 730.00 8 Bridgewater 184.62 8 Inglewood 766.67 4

BL Serpentine 39.62 4

Maiden Gully 32.76 0

Pyramid Hill 20.37 0

Mitiamo 12.50 0 Newbridge 0.00 0

NORTH CENTRAL

A Grade

Sea Lake Nandaly 9, 17, 32, 45, (45) d Wedderburn 12, 25, 29, 41, (41). Wycheproof Narraport 10, 17, 29, 31, (31) lost to St Arnaud 6, 14, 21, 27, (27). Birchip Watchem 12, 27, 41, 51, (51) d Donald 12, 19, 27, 41, (41). Boort 11, 21, 30, 42, (42) d Charlton 7, 11, 20, 26, (26).

Boort 158.93

Wedderburn 151.39

Donald 137.33

Nullawil 130.30

Birchip Watchem 100.00

Sea Lake Nandaly 85.23

Wycheproof Narraport 61.80

Charlton 61.90

St Arnaud 54.55

B Grade

Sea Lake Nandaly 10, 21, 27, 38, (38) lost to Wedderburn 15, 36, 50, 67, (67). Wycheproof Narraport 6, 12, 21, 28, (28) lost to St Arnaud 11, 18, 28, 40, (40). Birchip Watchem 10, 22, 31, 39, (39) drew with Donald 9, 22, 29, 39, (39). Boort 11, 27, 45, 55, (55) d Charlton 9, 20, 26, 36, (36).

Wedderburn 226.98

Donald 319.05

Birchip Watchem 159.09

Boort 116.67

Sea Lake Nandaly 78.63

St Arnaud 62.50

Charlton 65.45

Nullawil 62.86

Wycheproof Narraport 45.79

C Grade

Sea Lake Nandaly 11, 16, 27, 45, (45) d Wedderburn 5, 15, 20, 26, (26). Wycheproof Narraport 5, 10, 15, 22, (22) lost to St Arnaud 12, 18, 26, 35, (35). Birchip Watchem 12, 26, 33, 41, (41) d Donald 3, 7, 10, 18, (18).

Boort 182.14

Nullawil 165.00

Birchip Watchem 119.61

Wedderburn 117.72

Sea Lake Nandaly 94.81

Donald 80.36

St Arnaud 77.53

Wycheproof Narraport 59.68

Charlton 0.00

C Reserve

Wycheproof Narraport 11, 13, 19, 29, (29) d

St Arnaud 1, 12, 15, 24, (24). Sea Lake Nandaly 15, 26, 35, 43, (43) d Wedderburn 9, 17, 20, 28, (28).

Nullawil 625.00

Sea Lake Nandaly 153.57

Wedderburn 134.78

Wycheproof Narraport 120.83

St Arnaud 53.19

Birchip Watchem 16.00

17 & Under

Sea Lake Nandaly 6, 18, 30, 41, (41) d Wedderburn 10, 20, 31, 39, (39). Wycheproof Narraport 4, 11, 18, 21, (21) lost to St Arnaud 11, 19, 27, 35, (35). Birchip Watchem 19, 37, 58, 71, (71) d Donald 1, 2, 3, 6, (6). Boort 2, 6, 11, 17, (17) lost to Charlton 11, 17, 22, 29, (29).

Birchip Watchem 356.67

St Arnaud 180.85

Sea Lake Nandaly 108.06

Charlton 170.59

Donald 36.67

Boort 72.73

Wedderburn 71.43

Nullawil 66.67

Wycheproof Narraport 64.52

14 & Under A

Wycheproof Narraport 4, 5, 10, 13, (13) lost to St Arnaud 9, 21, 26, 30, (30). Birchip Watchem 5, 9, 11, 14, (14) lost to Donald 7, 9, 18, 28, (28). Sea Lake Nandaly 4, 33, 33, 33,

Boort’s Britney Sykes and Grace Hosking. Sykes came onto the court for the injured Emmerson Doyle in the third quarter. LH PHOTO

-

C Grade coach Brooke Arnold and Kristen Gooding raise the flag. L;H PHOTO

Life members Kristen Gooding, Marj Potter, Heather Jeffries, Margaret Nelson and president Roxy Train. LH PHOTO

SPORT

GOALKICKING Mercurial moments

LODDON VALLEY SENIORS

20 - (10) - Josh Mellington - BL Serpentine

20 - (12) - Lachlan Sharp - Bridgewater

9 - (7) - Jesse Sheahan - Pyramid Hill

9 - (4) - Zach Alford - Pyramid Hill

7 - (4) - Ryan Wellington - Marong

6 - (4) - Kain Robins - Marong

6 - (6) - Bailey Scott - Pyramid Hill

6 - (5) - Todd Delahey - Maiden Gully

6 - (4) - Noah McCaig - Marong

6 - (3) - Ryley Taylor - Marong

5 - (5) - Jaydon Cowling - Pyramid Hill

RESERVES

10 - (5) - Ben Irvine - Bridgewater

7 - (5) - Jeremy Campbell - Reserves

6 - (3) - Bradley Matthews - Marong

5 - (1) - Zack Turnbull - Marong

5 - (1) - Tom Grant - Marong

5 - (5) - Mitchell Dingwall - Pyramid Hill

5 - (0) - Kane Newton - Calivil United

UNDER 18

8 - (6) - Jack McMurray - Marong

8 - (5) - Mason Hocking - East Loddon

NORTH CENTRAL SENIORS

15 - (8) - Ben Edwards - Birchip Watchem

8 - (0) - Joshua Jenkins - Sea Lake Nandaly

8 - (5) - Corey Jones - Wycheproof Narraport

6 - (2) - Anthony Zelencich - Wedderburn

6 - (0) - Trent Grant - Donald

6 - (5) - Ethan Coleman - Boort

5 - (3) - Tom Campbell - Wedderburn

5 - (2) - Torin Petrie - St Arnaud

5 - (1) - Ty Colbert - Birchip Watchem

5 - (2) - Will Perryman - Boort

5 - (1) - Oscar Holt - Wedderburn

5 - (0) - Mitch Farmer - Nullawil RESERVES

13 - (9) - Billy Poulton - Sea Lake Nandaly

10 - (0) - Adam Thomson - Nullawil

5 - (0) - Chris Hargreaves - Wedderburn

5 - (5) - Joseph McGrath - Charlton

ETHAN Coleman lit the spark that spurred Boort to victory under lights against Charlton in Saturday’s North Central league clash.

The home-town Pies were being troubled by Charlton until late in the second term when Coleman snapped truly.

Coleman moments later proved the team player, driving the ball into the chest of senior debutante Alex Chamberlain who added another major to the scoreboard.

The mercurial feats of Coleman ended up netting five goals for the game. One saw the ball dribble through from 30 metres out, another snapped, almost as spectacular as James Keeble in the third term who put his boot to the ball in a congested forward line..

Onballer Jhye Baddeley-Kelly was in a handful of key fourquarter players for the Pies while skipper Rhys McGhie stood up countless times in defence.

Charlton had plenty of play in the opening term but it would be the Pies who edged ahead on the scoreboard, albeit more shots for goal offline than accurate.

Chris Hatcher was dynamic on the wing, particularly in the first and fourth quarters.

When Charlton did go forward, Kris Clifford was a handy focus and would end the night with two goals.

Rhyen Woods was popping up all night for Charlton. Jed and Nick Thompson kept the Royals in the game until half-time and refused to bow to the growing onslaught of confidence from Dale Cameron’s Pies after the main break.

Boort only led by nine points, thanks to a much-needed goal by James Kebbell, when the siren started the last hour of play.

The Pies defence tightened in the second half, there was greater tackling and some of the silly mistakes at times disappeared.

Wade Broadstock lifted to full rev in the centre, Smith and Austin were constantly turning over Charlton’s attacking lunges.

Will Perryman and Nat McLaren had flashes of brilliance brighter than the lights shining down on play.

Mitchell Collins across the midfield, and even deeper into defence, took some strong marks for Charlton and used his body to maximise opportunities for the Navies.

Both sides had moments when the pace of play slackened. They

were penalised for slow disposal that often resulted in goals to opponents.

Boort, after a stellar third quarter, did not keep up the same intensity in the final term, allowing the visitors opportunities that had they been more accurate, would have reduced the final margin. A 44-point win at home and under lights was a good result on a night when Boort took a good half of football to settle and used the third quarter to open the season’s account.

The Pies have the bye this week before hosting the Loddon Derby against Wedderburn.

- CHRIS EARL

AT THREE-QUARTER time last Saturday, a massive upset was on the cards when Wedderburn led last season’s undefeated premiers Sea Lake Nandaly by seven points in their North Central league clash.

It wasn’t to be, with the Tigers managing four goals to two in the final term to break Redback hearts and come away with a 15-point win.

For Wedderburn playing coach Tom Metherell the result was both a bitter disappointment and a great statement of intent.

“There was a bit of a breeze, and they got a couple of early ones in the last. We wrested back the momentum, but they had a bit more polish in the end,” Metherell said.

Standing at full forward for Sea Lake Nandaly was former AFL star Josh Jenkins, who was coming off eight goals in round one.

Wedderburn’s gritty defence managed to hold the ex-Crow and Cat goalless.

“We brought up Matt Lockhart from the reserves for the Jenkins role. He’s a big, strong lad and he did a great job,” Metherell said.

“Our defensive pressure was through the roof, and they weren’t getting clean entries. We

also did really well to push Jenkins wide.”

The Redbacks were left to rue some errant shots at goal – they had only one fewer scoring shot than the Tigers.

Danny Benaim was best on ground for Wedderburn, with Jayden Jones, Jackson McEwan, Sam Lockhart, Darcy Jackson and Metherell among the best.

Sam Lockhart won special praise from his coach for his courage in playing on after breaking a bone in his wrist in the first quarter. He will miss up to six weeks.

The Redbacks, third on the ladder, come up against Charlton, who are second last, in round three.

“I told the boys not to get too cocky with how close we got this week, but there’s no reason why we can’t fight back against Charlton,” Metherell said.

Charlton v Wedderburn

Sea Lake Nandaly v Wycheproof Narraport

St Arnaud v Birchip Watchem

Donald v Nullawil

Alex Chamberlain made his senior debut for Boort on Saturday night, donning the No 4 which was once worn by his father. Chamberlain kicked a goal as the Pies had their first win of the season. Boort raised

Jhye Baddeley-Kelly puts in a best-on-ground performance for the Pies. LH PHOTO

Allen key to fightback against Bears

TEN MINUTES into Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s clash with Inglewood and gun Bears full-forward Josh Mellington had four goals on the board. It seemed a case of how many Mellington and how far Serp?

In the end, it was 10 goals to the former Fremantle Docker, and a comfortable 58-point win to the Bears, but the Blues managed to put the poor start behind them and compete bravely against the odds.

Cody Stobaus initially had the unenviable job of standing against Mellington, who had kicked 10 a week earlier against last season’s runners-up Pyramid Hill.

Mellington proved too strong and too canny for Stobaus, using his body brilliantly to work his opponent under the ball, and playing on consistently while the defender was off balance.

His preference for snapping across his body on his left foot paid dividends early.

Despite his first-quarter haul, Mellington was frustrated by the Bears’ delivery into the forward line, and made his view clear to the bench, demanding longer and quicker entries inside 50.

Inglewood switched the taller Will Allen into Mellington after the first four-goal onslaught, and

By GARY WALSH

he managed to subdue the forward’s influence for the rest of the game.

Allen took advantage of Mellington’s habit of retreating to the back of packs competing for a mark – one man’s “cheapies out the back” is another man’s good reading of the play – and defended well.

Stobaus, meanwhile, was given a free role on the backline after half-time, and he dropped into the hole in front of Mellington to repeatedly stymie the Serp star’s leads as well as marking strongly to repel attacks.

It took until the third quarter, in which the Bears kicked five goals to one, for the match to be largely decided, and the final term saw only one goal scored by the winners.

The Bears will put plenty of sides to the sword this season, but Inglewood suggested in its first match of the season it would be competitive with the better teams.

The victors took home the Bonnie Ward Cup, which has been competed for by the two teams since 2001, named in memory of long-serving Inglewood official Margaret “Bonnie” Ward.

Mellington was the Bears best

player, while ruckman Justin Laird gave his midfield first use of the ball throughout. Captain Charlie Gadsden, onballer Doolan Nihill and Josh Taig also had strong games.

Allen and Stobaus ended up among the Blues’ best, along with Mitchell Conlan, Lachlan Ford and Liam Marciano.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine faces Newbridge in round three, while Inglewood takes on neighbours Bridgewater and star forward Lachlan Sharp. Another interesting round on the horizon.

Autumnal authority stamped by league’s super goal guns

A WEEKEND of blowouts in the Loddon Valley league saw Marong stamp its authority once again, and an intriguing battle for the goalkicking title emerge.

Marong’s 157-point demolition of Newbridge on a balmy autumn afternoon, who had shown promise in their round-one loss to Bridgewater, was achieved on the back of another genuine team performance.

The Panthers had a dozen individual goal scorers after 11 in the season opener, with nobody kicking more than four in the team’s 25-goal haul.

Ruckman Michael Bradbury dominated the hitouts and sneaked forward to kick two goals for Marong, and Jonty Davis a graduate of the Bendigo Pioneers in the statewide Coates Talent League, was impressive in an onball role. Noah McCaig, Kain Robins and Ryan Wellington each kicked four goals. New-

bridge skipper Will Daly was the Maroons’ best, kicking one of the team’s two goals, while Lachie Costelow, Jackson Hufer, Tyler McLeod, Tyler Constable and Dylan Lloyd battled hard.

Boom Bridgewater recruit Lachlan Sharp kicked 12 goals for the Mean Machine in their 95-point win over Maiden Gully. Sharp has 20 goals for the season, equal with Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s Josh Mellington, setting up a thrilling race to be first to the century. Sharp and Mellington are each sitting on 20 goals after just two rounds.

Who will be first to the century and is the league goal record set by Brayden Grenfell when with Marong now being rapidly chased down by not one but two players?

Jack Neylon and Bo Alexander, both former Strathfieldsaye teammates of Sharp, were also brilliant for Bridgewater.

Co-coach Angus Monfries was

best for the undermanned Eagles, showing all the experience gained from his time with Essendon and Port Adelaide in the AFL, while Todd Delahey kicked five of Maiden Gull’s seven goals.

The biggest shellacking was Pyramid Hill’s 200-point win over Calivil United, coming after their surprise round-one loss to the Bears.

Jesse Sheahan kicked seven for the winners and Bailey Scott managed six.

Round three may be a seasonshaping weekend, with Marong facing Pyramid Hill in a grand final rematch, Bridgewater taking on Inglewood, Bears Lagoon Serpentine at home to Newbridge.

Maiden Gully, still in arrears after league sanctions stripped it of 12 premiership points before the season started, travels to Mitiamo.

Calivil has the bye this weekend.

THIS WEEK’S LODDON VALLEY PREDICTIONS

Gary Walsh

BL Serpentine Mitiamo Marong Bridgewater

Glenn Catto

BL Serpentine Mitiamo Pyramid Hill Inglewood

Chris Earl

BL Serpentine Mitiamo Pyramid Hill Bridgewater

NO surprises in Loddon Valley football at the weekend as the good ol’ Oracle powers to a tipping record that outstrips the performance of Marong the last season or two.

With more time on my hands than usual, the Crystal Ball has been working overtime in match analysis and fortune.

I’m pumping for a few upsets this weekend and none bigger that Pyramid Hill toppling Marong at Malone Park.

On the Panthers’ home turf, no less, but the Bulldogs from Mitchell Park up north will be out to avenge last year’s 16-point defeat in the grand final and also grab the Mick Herrick Cup.

It sure will be a toss of the coin but Pyramid Hill is capable.

Mitiamo may not have started the year too well - and I’ve copped a ribbing about the Superoos’ chances of lifting off the bottom.

They’ve the chance to prove me wrong when Maiden Gully ventures to John Forbes Oval on Saturday.

Many a good side from Bendigo has fallen flat on the windy graveyard.

Maiden Gully is not, to date anyway, one of the better sides out of the big smoke and will find Mitiamo knows how to play the ground and that wind blowing in from the Echuca end. Expect a few cheers in the Legends’ Bar as Mitiamo

proves even the Oracle can get some things wrong.

The fighting spirit will be at Bridgewater where the crossbridge rivalry continues with Inglewood in the annual Anzac weekend clash.

Bridgewater is firing on more pistons than a super-charged V8 scooting around Bathurst at the moment.

The Blues have a tough few opening rounds. Remember, though, they hadn’t had a practice match for a fortnight before last Saturday’s encounter with Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

Inglewood will be the better for the tough hit out and is my tip for the quality chocolates against Bridgewater.

While the top four teams already look establishedMarong, Pyramid Hill, Bridgewater and Bears Lagoon Serpentine - Inglewood in the next few weeks can stamp itself as the team to earn that fifth position, if my crystal ball is not too hazy.

- GLENN CATTO

Josh Millington bustles for the ball in Saturday’s clash against Inglewood (above) that saw skipper Charlie Gadsden and coach Jake Wilkinson presented with the Bonnie Ward Cup after again winning over the Blues. LH PHOTOS

LoDDon VALLeY

seniors

Maiden Gully 3.1 4.3 5.3 7.3 (45)

Bridgewater 4.5 10.7 14.10 21.14 (140)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: T. Delahey 5, L. Deslandes, D. Phyland. Bridgewater: L. Sharp 12, L. Coghlan, H. Conway, X. Walsh 2, A. Pollock, J. Neylon. BEST - Maiden Gully: A. Monfries, J. Worsley, T. Delahey, T. Birch, D. Phyland, L. Deslandes. Bridgewater: J. Neylon, B. Alexander, X. Walsh, L. Sharp, B. Derrick, H. Donegan.

Newbridge 1.0 1.1 1.2 2.3 (15)

Marong 8.6 11.12 19.18 25.22 (172)

GOALS - Newbridge: T. McLeod, W. Daly. Marong: N. McCaig, K. Robins, R. Wellington 4, R. Taylor 3, N. Devanny, M. Bradbury 2, M. Grant, L. Lee, T. Davies, S. Knott, C. Hale, J. McCaig. BEST - Newbridge: W. Daly, L. Costelow, J. Hufer, T. McLeod, T. Constable, D. Lloyd. Marong Seniors: M. Bradbury, J. Davis, B. Gregg, R. Wellington, N. McCaig, D. Johnstone.

Inglewood 3.1 4.7 5.9 5.10 (40)

BL Serpentine 7.3 8.7 13.10 14.14 (98)

GOALS - Inglewood: M. Conlan 3, K. Payne, L. Marciano. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Mellington 10, A. Gladman, T. Miles, C. Gadsden. BEST - Inglewood: M. Conlan, W. Allen, L. Ford, L. Marciano, C. Stobaus, M. Rowe. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Mellington, J. Laird, D. Nihill, J. Taig, C. Gadsden, B. Harrison.

(220)

UnDer 18

Pyramid

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: J. Peter 3, H. Goodes 2, C. McCoy, B. Gibson. East Loddon: M. Hocking 5, B. Dowton 3, M. Green, L. James 2, J. Ketterer, O. Balic, F. Clymo, A. Roulston, B. Wagner, C. Tuohey.

reserVes

reserVes

Pyramid Hill 14.22 (106)

Calivil 0.6 (6)

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: M. Dingwall 5, A. Dye 4, R. James 2, J. Timmins, B. Culross, B. Gibson. BEST - Pyramid Hill: M. Moon, J. Timmins, M. Dingwall, T. Walker, A. Dye, B. Culross. Calivil: T. Harcourt, C. Dickins, M. Hore, E. Ritchie, B. Masson, C. Henson,

Maiden Gully 0.0 1.3 1.3 1.3 (9)

Bridgewater 8.4 14.6 19.10 25.15 (165)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: C. Sungalis. Bridgewater: B. Irvine, J. Campbell 5, A. Gauci, S. Dewar, D. Valentini, J. McKenzie, J. Wild 2, A. Woodman, T. Naughton, M. Spurr, K. Lukies, P. Wardell . BEST - Maiden Gully: W. Anderson, J. Tierney, C. Whitfield, T. Baker, M. Clark, B. Franzini. Bridgewater: B. Irvine, M. Brooks, A. Gauci, A. Woodman, E. Woodhatch, J. McKenzie.

Newbridge 1.1 1.1 1.2 3.2 (20)

Marong 3.2 6.6 6.11 12.14 (86)

GOALS - Newbridge: B. Butler 3. Marong: B. Matthews 3, A. Collins 2, H. Baker, K. McCaig, Z. Turnbull, K. Terrill, T. Grant, F. Stewart, L. Hale. BEST - Newbridge: A. Moore, T. Wight, B. Butler, G. Cathie, O. Gordon, R. Hipworth.

Marong: Z. Turnbull, F. Stewart, A. Collins, K. Terrill, B. Matthews, L. Rielley.

Inglewood 3.2 5.5 7.7 7.8 (50)

BL Serpentine 0.1 2.1 2.3 3.8 (26)

GOALS - Inglewood: J. Rouse, D. Hogan, B. ReddinJowett, T. Murphy, T. Kilcullen, J. Purdy, C. Dolan. Bears

Lagoon Serpentine: D. McKay, Z. Stone. Incomplete. BEST

- Inglewood: J. Leach, T. Kilcullen, H. Bogaski, T. Kendal, J. Rouse, A. Lister. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: A. Edwards, O. Amy, Z. Stone, M. Addlem, D. Niemann, B. Finlay.

BEST - Pyramid Hill: B. Gibson, H. Goodes, H. Ray, M. Caspani, J. Clough-Fidler, J. Peter. East Loddon: B. Wagner, C. Tuohey, N. Ramskill, T. Rasmussen, O. Balic. Inglewood

(12)

11.13 19.16 28.20 (188)

GOALS - Inglewood: T. Murphy 2. Marong: J. McMurray 6, M. Lowery 5, R. Kerr 3, L. Bowen, K. Harris, K. Thomson, C. Murphy 2, J. Hutton, H. Roberts, J. Taylor, R. Hayden, R. Doorty, W. Thomson.

BEST - Inglewood: W. Schepers, K. McClellan, T. Murphy, C. Hackett, J. Penrose, R. Murphy. Marong: J. McMurray, M. Lowery, K. Harris, H. Mannix, J. Bird, K. Thomson.

3250.00

norTH CenTrAL

seniors

(28)

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: SB. Edwards 8, T. Colbert, D. Reid, J. Reid, M. Buchanan, S. Hogan, L. Foott, S. Pye. Donald: J. Potter, B. Grant, H. Forrest, G. Morgan. BEST - Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards, H. Hosking, S. Pye, D. Hinkley, J. Reid, M. Buchanan. Donald: T. Stevenson, A. Browne, D. Kerr, R. Barrack, H. Geddes, D. Pearce.

(81)

(36)

- Boort:

W. Broadstock, J. Smith, M. Austin. Charlton: R. Woods, J. Thompson, S. Woods, T. Bruns, N. Thompson, T. Fehsler.

Lake Nandaly: B. McInnes, J. McMahon, W. Donnan 2, R. Osullivan, M. Cahoon, T. McKenzie, T. Cox, L. McClelland, B. Delmenico. BESTWedderburn: D.

GOALS - Wycheproof Narraport: K. Kennedy, T. Trewin 3, J. Keane 2, L. Coles, J. Pardella, D. Harrison, R. Jones, S. Lewis. St Arnaud: Not supplied. BEST - Wycheproof Narraport: D. Harrison, D. Murray, T. Keane, S. Lewis, J. Pardella, K. Kennedy. St Arnaud: R. Kirk, S. Elliott, C. Campbell, L. Ezard, C. Leach, R. Bigmore.

Boort 2.1 4.3 6.4 8.8 (56)

Charlton 1.1 4.3 6.3 6.4 (40)

GOALS - Boort: E. Lanyon 3, P. O’Rourke 2, F. Holland, H. Weaver, C. O’Rourke. Charlton: J. McGrath 5, A. Judd.

BEST - Boort: H. Weaver, F. Holland, C. ORourke, F. Millar, E. Lanyon, J. Dowling. Charlton: D. Roberts, J. Zagame, B. Sexton, J. McGrath, E. Fitzpatrick, A. Judd.

Wedderburn 1.4 1.4 1.8 1.8 (14)

Sea Lake Nandaly 4.1 12.3 16.5 21.7 (133)

GOALS - Wedderburn: A. Roberts. Sea Lake Nandaly: B. Poulton 9, H. Harcourt 4, C. Allan 3, T. Considine 2, J. Newick, J. Humphrey, J. Clohesy. BEST - Wedderburn: R. Tonkin, C. Hargreaves, J. Miller, A. Roberts, J. Piccoli, L. Sims. Sea Lake Nandaly: B. Poulton, I. Durie, C. Allan, H. Harcourt, C. Tait.

Birchip Watchem 3.3 4.10 8.12 12.13 (85)

Donald 0.1 2.1 2.1 3.2

UnDer 14

Boort’s Ethan Coleman

Loddon HERALD sport

YOUTH MAKE MARK

By GARY WALSH

THE ROAR from the netball court at Inglewood on Saturday afternoon was louder than anything heard around the adjacent football ground.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine had won the A Grade clash over the Blues – notching their first victory in five years.

And they did it in style, dominating the court throughout, winning 67-21 on the back of a stellar performance from young goal scorer Ava Francis.

Francis, in just her second A Grade outing, scored freely and at 89 per cent accuracy to ensure the win.

She was part of last season’s 17 and-under side, which finished as runners-up, and along with several of her teammates has made the step up to senior netball.

Afterwards, Francis wasn’t sure how many goals she had scored when the Loddon Herald spoke to her – she went off to try to find someone who knew, but failed – but can rest assured it was plenty.

Serp’s long-awaited win came after COVID cancelled the 2020

season and they were unable to field a team in 2021 and 2022.

Last season they returned but found it hard to be competitive, losing all their matches – some by 70 goals or more.

A new coach from Marong, Danielle O’Toole, has brought new confidence to the Bears along with the influx of young talent. Optimism was high after round one, a more than respectable 15-goal loss to powerhouse Pyramid Hill, and Serp dominated against the Blues, who had the bye on the opening weekend.

Now third on the ladder, and with the most goals in the competition so far, they will face Newbridge, who are one spot below them, this coming weekend. Newbridge lost by two goals to Marong in round two after beating Bridgewater a week earlier.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine goalkicking sensation Josh Mellington found goals harder when Inglewood coach Fergus Payne switched Will Allen into the defence late in the first quarter. LH PHOTO

Brave Blues and pouncing Panthers

IT WAS all about the spearheads in round two of Loddon Valley football last Saturday.

Bridgewater’s Lachlan Sharp kicked a neat dozen in the 95-point win over Maiden Gully, while Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s Josh Mellington kicked 10 goals for the second week in a row as the Bears got home against a brave Inglewood.

Each now has 20 goals for the season, more than double the next best on the goalkicking lad-

der, and centuries look a certainty for the two stars barring injury or suspension.

Marong continued on its winning way with a 157-point thumping of Newbridge, taking its percentage to a staggering 1421.74 after two huge victories in its bid for a third straight flag.

Pyramid Hill rebounded from a shock loss in the opening round to punish a hapless Calivil United by 200 points.

Ava Francis