THE Hill in under siege from wind and solar farm speculators eyeing farmland for potential renewable energy projects.
Two multi-national companies are wanting agreements with landowners in the Pyramid Hill district.
Projects that more 120 people on Sunday were told would change the face of the community and “our lives forever”.
Opponents to the explosion of renewable energy projects across rural Victoria told people not to sign any agreement with the speculative companies.
A message to an audience hoping for answers, definitely information, on what these companies want with local farmland.
Loddon Valley Renewables Awareness Group’s first community forum came just days after Potentia Energy sent letters to landowners around Mologa announcing plans for a solar farm generating up to 662,000 MWh.
The US and Japanese company will start information sessions in Pyramid Hill and Mitiamo next month. It says the project could be submitted for fast-tracked State Government approval be-
Byron Talbot
fore Christmas. European Energy is eyeing a wind farm development at nearby Mincha - it had said community engagement would start by September but on Monday a spokesperson for the Danish company said “introduction letters” would be sent to neighbours this week.
Community consultation is now expected in November when farmers are harvesting.
Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural Protection Assocation’s Ross Johns and Simone Lewis, a neighbour to a wind farm development near Birchip, emphatically told Sunday’s forum that signing any paperwork with renewable energy developers could effect land use, values and access.
Mrs Lewis said: “Sitting on the fence is not an option ... if you
sign (land) access you are deemed as being in support ... they (companies) are using our land as security for investors.”
The Loddon Valley group has alligned itself with the Wimmera association. Mr Johns, from near Warracknabeal used the forum to take aim at the net zero policies of the State and Federal Government.
Mr Johns said: “Australia has got this wrong.” And he said fasttracked approvals of renewable energy was not proper process.
“If people in a rural community can’t talk openly and transparently about deals you (companies) are trying to do, what are you hiding,” Mr Johns said.
Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh said government ideology had overridden logic on renewable energy. “How they get to net zero - they don’t care about you and the cost.”
Pyramid Hill Progress Association president Drew Chislett and awareness group leader Byron Talbot said they wanted the community to be wise in decisions made. They said the push for answers would continue.
Mincha cherry farm owner Tara Hammet and Mologa’s Bill Boyd were among residents who joined Sunday’s queue for more answers.
CONTINUED PAGE 5
Mologa landowners Bill Boyd and Denise McDougal. LH PHOTOS
Tara Hammet ... her cherry farm borders proposed wind farm
Loddon HERALD
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WEEKEND FORECAST
Boort
Students connecting with residents
CONNECTION of the ages was strengthened at Inglewood and District’s Health Service on Friday.
Five East Loddon P12 College students - Hayden Ray, Marissa Humbert, Drew Duncan, Tahlia Hoffmann and Shyann Wilson - gave their presentation to residents and staff as part of the Youth Take Over program. The students interviewed resi-
dents Dot Roberts, Henry Oblak and Joe Watts and staff as part of the presentation.
North Central LLEN’s careers and pathways team leader Jacinta Sutton said: “They showcased the work they have produced while working alongside Inglewood District Health Service during Term 3.
“This was an opportunity to hear from the students, meet
our industry mentors, and as the five students showed how Youth Take Over is helping shape confident, work-ready young people in our region.”
Youth Take Over is a studentled initiative guided by mentors to help students develop skills in leadership, teamwork, and project management.
North Central is one of four LLENs promoting the program.
IN BRIEF
Grand stair times
BRIDGEWATER CFA members Matt and Priscilla Wernert climbed to new heights in the annual Melbourne Firefighters Stair Climb. The event raised more than $1 million for the Peter Mac Cancer Foundation, Lifeline and 000 Foundation with Bridgewater CFA contributing $1725. “We’ll definitely be doing it again next year,” Matt said, “hopefully we’ll have a few more people join us.” Matt finished 103rd out of 488 climbers in the on air category, with a time of 6.05.117. He was 15th in the master’s 40-49 age category and 99th for the men. Priscilla finished in 90th place in the off air climber’s category with a time of 6.44.477. She was sixth in the open 18-39 age category and seventh in the women’s category.
Appointment
ALEX Gretgrix has been appointed editor of the Loddon Herald’s sister newspaper NCN Herald covering the St Arnaud and Charlton districts. Alex, originally from Wycheproof, worked on newspapers in Echuca and Bendigo before two years in communications with Bendigo Health.
Register burns RESIDENTS preparing their property for fire season have been asked to to register their burn-offs online, through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
Residents Henry Oblak, Dot Roberts and Joe Watts share more stories with teacher Brooke Smythe and East Loddon students after Friday’s Youth Take Over presentation. LH PHOTO
Late bid ‘to save history’ Restoration move on surviving section of Jennings Store
By CHRIS EARL
DESCENDANTS of the Jennings family and owner of the historic Inglewood store destroyed by fire last year are in an 11th hour scurry to save an undamaged part of the building.
David Oakley and members of the Pattison family have spent the past week clearing land adjoining the Brooke Street property for demolition company Hopleys to remove the front section of the store built in 1866.
Ken Pattison, whose grandmother was a Jennings, and Mr Oakley after working on the access block after an emergency building order was issued that could stave off complete demolition.
But they have a tight timeline to complete works. The Loddon Shire permit requires the site to be made safe by next week.
Loddon Shire early this month put a demolition order on the surviving rear section of the shop damaged by fire in August 2024. The facade and front part of the building were demolished hours after volunteer firefighters extinguished the fire.
Council’s operations director Steve Van Orsouw on Monday said: “Council continues to work with the property owner to clean up the site and make the building safe. No further information can be provided due to ongoing enforcement action.”
The Loddon Herald under-
stands an emergency building order last week gave Mr Oakley until yesterday to complete a site clean up.
Surviving walls are to be reduced to 1.6 metres and rubble removed in the next week.
Mr Oakley, who has continued his business selling chickens since the fire, said he had felt pressured by Loddon Shire to
agree to demolish everything”.
Mr Pattison said it was hoped that bricks could be salvaged and used in restoration and repair of surviving brickwork. “There will also need to be a new floor over the cellar and I hope that some of the oregon beams can also be re-used,” Mr Pattison said. “We’ll
IN BRIEF
Recycle shop waiver
A NEW community enterprise in Pyramid Hill has has been granted a planning permit fee waiver by Loddon Shire. Councillors on Tuesday waived the $1496 fee for Finders Keepers Op Shop, a progress association initiative in the yard of the town’s supermarket. A report to councillors said the initiative would play a critical role in diverting items from landfill by giving discarded goods such as furniture, homewares, and tools a second life through resale or repurposing. “By promoting circular economy principles, it will help reduce the demand for new products and decrease the volume of waste sent to landfill,” the report said.
Leave granted
FATHER of the Loddon Shire Council Gavan Holt has been granted a leave of absence. The Wedderburn Ward councillor has been unable to attend recent council meetings. Cr Holt is currently receiving medical treatment.
Group recognised
mother was a member of the Jennings family, was born and raised in Inglewood and later married CD Graham who designed the memorial hall in Boort. “The Jennings store is part of our history.”
Mr Oakley last Friday said the demolition reprieve was “important for the town and for the descendants of of the Jennings family”.
CAMPBELLS Forest Progress Association has been formally recognised by Loddon Shire as the community planning committee for the Campbells Forest, Yarraberb and district community. The Association to oversee both community planning for the district and the management of the Campbells Forest Hall.
Have your say on the proposed Mologa Solar Hybrid Project
Potentia Energy is proposing to develop, construct and operate a Solar Hybrid project in Mologa, Victoria.
The proposed Solar Hybrid will generate up to 662,000 MWh per year of clean energy –enough to power around 109,500 homes in Victoria.
Community engagement is an important part of development application and allows us to understand any concerns the community may have. Your feedback will help us to shape the proposal.
We are inviting the community to attend either of the upcoming community drop-in sessions to find out more about the proposal and share your feedback. You can provide your feedback by:
Attending a community drop-in session
Wednesday 8 October 2025 4pm – 7pm at Mitiamo Football & Netball Clubs social rooms
• Thursday 9 October 2025 10am – 1pm at Pyramid Hill Memorial Hall
About Potentia Energy
Potentia Energy is a leading Australian renewable energy developer and asset owner, dedicated to supporting the nation’s transition to clean energy. With a growing portfolio of utility-scale wind, solar, and battery storage projects, including local projects Cohuna Solar Farm and Girgarre Solar Farm.
Completing our survey
Provide your feedback by completing a short survey to share your feedback on the proposal.
To find out more and access the survey on our website, scan the QR code.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about the Mologa Solar Hybrid, we encourage you to contact us at:
Ken Pattison and David Oakley cleaning up land adjoining the Brooke Street site. LH PHOTO
One breakdown away from tough pool talks
COMMUNITIES were one equipment failure away from having serious conversations on Loddon swimming pools, Cr Miki Wilson told Tuesday’s Loddon Shire meeting.
Cr Wilson said council faced significant risks in its aquatic strategy with the five swimming pools up to 70 years old.
“If one of these pools fails, there wll have to be serious conversations about the investment that would be made. The community needs to understand (the) risks,” she said.
Cr Wilson’s statement came as councillors received a report showing swmming pool attendances last season were up 18 per cent, most driven by funding of $11,478 from Inglewood and District’s Community Bank of its ini-
tiative for discounted entry and half-price season tickets at Inglewood, Mitamo and Wedderburn pools.
“Belgravia Leisure contributed $3806 to extend the initiative to the Pyramid Hill pool and council included the Boort pool through contract rise and fall adjustments,” wellbeing director Wendy Gladman told councillors .
“This partnership initiative was well received by the Loddon community and is considered the primary driver behind an 18 per cent increase in overall attendance, with total visits rising from 14,928 in 2023-2024 to 17,517 visits in 2024-2025,” Mrs Gladman said.
“Total pool expenditure across the five pools for the season was $833,116. Despite higher contract
and maintenance costs, increased visitation kept the average cost per entry stable at $47.56, compared with $47.63 in 2023-2024.”
Mrs Gladman said early morning swimming sessions at Boort, Wedderburn and Inglewood continued to attract community support.
Aqua aerobics classes were held at Boort, Wedderburn, Inglewood, and Pyramid Hill. Mitiamo hosted a program supported by the Healthy Loddon Campaspe initiative.
Cr David Weaver said council,m however, had worrying times ahead with maintenance costs.
But Cr Weaver said with number of waterways in the shire, pools offering learn-to-swim programs was “a wonderful thing” tfor water safety.
Time snaps can capture road flood damage
COLLECTION of road condition
data in Loddon Shire could be increased to beat future natural disaster funding hurdles.
Operations director Van Orsouw told councillors that staff were investigating systems that will record road infrastructure condition.
“A fundamental learning from earlier phases was the lack of pre-condition photographic data, and immediate post-flood photos which impacted the ability to substantiate claims,” Mr van Oursow said in his report on progress
gaining approval for recovery works after the 2022 and 20232024 floods that hit Loddon communities.
“(Lack of) pre-condition photographic data and immediate postflood photos which impacted the ability to substantiate claims
He said $21,342,894 of approved works package had now been approved.
“As tender packets are released, the required completion date of 30 June 2026 will become clearer, and this may result in Council seeking an extension of time to
complete the entire works program,” he said.
Mayor Dan Straub told the meeting that the approval process had been drawn out and highlighted the three-tier requirement for tick-off of federalstate funding as a concern.
Most of the flood recovery work involves gravel resheeting, or adding gravel to unsealed roads. Council has already been reimbursed $4.6 million with another $4.3 million of work funded through insurance claims and other State Government funding.
Lack of engagement leaves questions to be answered
FROM PAGE 1
Mrs Hammet said: “Two years ago we heard about a project at Macorna through neighbours who were thinking about signing up. We weren’t concerned and then friends in south-west Victoria told us about their experiences with renewable projects.
“Then when the Mincha project became more known we started to try and get information,” she said.
“I am a neighbour of the wind farm that’s beng proposed and have not been contacted.
“We understand project hosts have non-disclosure clauses ... why? It is terrble for the community, it’s fracturing but not out of hand but it’s begeinning (to go that way).
“We have contacted European Energy and they said they
would start contacting people this week.”
For Mr Boyd, the lack of initial contact from Potentia has been in contrast with dealings he has had with gold exploration companies for almost 30 years.
Mr Boyd also owns land between Mitiamo and Mologa that Catalyst Metals is exploring and has an application before the State Government to construct a tunnel.
“Catalyst comes and sits at my kitchen table six times a year,” he said.
“The first I twigged that something was happening at Mologa was when I saw some survey pegs in the area.”
Mr Talbot said the Loddon Valley Renewables Awareness Group had 20 active members but expected more would sign up after Sunday’s forum.
Studies start on ‘fast track’ solar plans
POTENTIA Energy says it has assessments of its proposed 250MW Mologa solar farm 250MW battery energy storage system
They include studies on technical assess bushfire, ecology, acoustic, hydrology, traffic, visual impact and culture heritage to accompany the planning application.
“These will outline any potential impacts of the site and will recommend ways to manage or mitigate those impacts,” the project online site says.
Potentia did not respond to inquiries this week on poten-
tial flood risk studies of the site bound by Bendigo Pyramid Road, Mologa Durham Ox Road and Mitiamo-Kerang Road.
Potentia says the site was selected for its strategic merit and proximity to the existing 220KV transmission line running north south through the site. It says the site is relatively flat, predominantly clear of vegetation and benefits from good solar access.
The company expects a decision from the Government on its plans within 12 months.
Potentia also has solar farms at Cohuna and Girgarre.
Falstaff and friends have a merry time
THE future of opera performances in Inglewood could be in doubt despite a stunning performance of the Merry Wives of Windsor last Sunday.
Lyster Opera again wooed Loddon music lovers with their latest touring production featuring Darcy Carroll in the main role of Falstaff.
However, audience numbers were down on previous shows in Inglewood and Tarnagulla with 60 locals and visitors in the town hall.
Opera company founder Jamie Moffat said Loddon towns had been great supporters of the shows for many years. He said the drop in audience numbers would see a review of the touring schedule.
Loddon Shire Council is proud to present the draft Community Vision 2035 and Council Plan 2025-2029 (incorporating the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan).
For the first time, our Council Plan also incorporates our Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, reinforcing the importance of health and wellbeing in everything we do. The draft Council Plan will act as a roadmap to achieving our Community Vision, so it is important that we get it right. A copy of the draft Loddon Shire Council Plan 2025-2029 can be downloaded from www.loddon.vic.gov.au. It can also be viewed at or obtained from Council’s Customer Service Centre, 41 High Street, Wedderburn between 8.15am and 4.45pm Monday to Friday.
Any person who wishes to provide feedback on the draft Loddon Shire Council Plan 2025–2029 can do so by completing the online submission form (follow the link from our home page), sending a written submission to Loddon Shire Council, PO Box 21, Wedderburn VIC 3518 or emailing it to executive@loddon.vic.gov.au
Submissions close 5pm on Tuesday 30 September 2025.
The Loddon Shire Victorian Seniors Festival 2025 guide is now out. It's got all the information you'll need for the October festival, which features a gala event in Wedderburn on Wednesday, 8 October.
You can pick up the guide at your local post office, Senior Citizens Centre or Neighbourhood House or by scanning the QR code on the right It also has details on how to get your free cafe voucher.
Learning centre staff have vital role to play
PLANNING for the opening of the Loddon Shire’s first child care centre in 2026 is ramping up with Early Learning Victoria recruiting staff for the Wedderburn Early Learning Centre.
The centre in the grounds of Wedderburn College is one of 14 government-owned early learning and child care centres opening across the state in 2026, will offer long day care, integrated and sessional kinder programs.
Every day is different, which Early Learning Victoria chief executive officer Darren Youngs says is “really exciting” for staff at the four centres already operating.
“Our approach is to meet each child’s learning needs and preferences in individual ways, while ensuring that children have access to nutritious food, rest and relaxation and the opportunity for uninterrupted periods of play throughout the day,” he says.
Mr Youngs says every team member plays a vital role, with play-based learning and children’s development and wellbeing the focus.
“This includes our incredible early childhood teachers and educators, room leaders, chefs, administrators, educational leaders, assistant directors and centre directors,” he says.
Community is a big part of the culture at Early Learning
Victoria, with centres rapidly becoming local hubs for child and family services, often conveniently co-located with local schools.
This gives young Victorians the best start in life and means families have the opportunity to go back to work if and when they choose.
Mr Youngs says early childhood education and care is a rewarding and highly impactful career where you have the opportunity to instil a lifelong love of learning in our next generation.
“Staff at our centres have access to ongoing professional learning opportunities, including coaching and mentoring, career-development opportunities and upskilling,” he says.
“They also enjoy competitive wages and conditions.”
Urging qualified candidates to apply, Mr Youngs also has some advice for anyone who’s interested but may be unsure where to start.
“If you are not yet qualified, please reach out to the Early Learning Victoria workforce team who can advise you on your first steps. Everyone starts somewhere.”
Early Learning Victoria is a child-safe organisation with a positive work culture supported by strong values.
Find out more at earlylearning.vic.gov. au/jobs or email elv.workforce@education.vic.gov.au
Council has released the Draft Financial Plan 2025/26 - 2034/35 for public comment.
This plan, which also supports the Community Vision and Council Plan, provides the framework for Council's finances for the next 10 years and will be the guiding document for the annual budget.
To view this plan and have your say, visit the Council website.
Council has opened up entries for both the 2026 Australia Day awards as well as the three competitions run to mark the day.
Australia Day Awards - These recognise outstanding Australians and community groups within Loddon Shire: Citizen and Ward Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Community Group/Event of the Year.
Australia Day Competitions - Based on the theme ‘Australian Vegetation’ Council is conducting Colouring, Photographic and Literature competitions.
Nominations and entry forms are available from Council’s website, or by emailing australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au.
Nominations and entries must be received by 4pm on Friday, 24 October.
Cr Dan Straub - Mayor
Maria Woolford, Belinda Dalton, Darcy Carroll and Alastair Cooper-Golec get into character before their performance last Sunday in Inglewood. LH PHOTO
Maryanne and Martin Duke were in the audience
STEVE Weavel has put Inglewood’s Empire State Hotel up for sale ... on doctor’s orders.
Steve needs licence to rest $21k will be shared by hospitals
The veteran publican is selling the heritage hotel with or without a licence and hopes for a sale soon.
“The doctor has told me I’ve got to stop being on my feet for hours every day,” Steve said at the weekend. “And if I don’t, I’ll end up crippled.”
“I have had terrible trouble walking for a while and everyone has seen the difficulty I now have even going from one end of the bar to the other.”
Steve has owned the town’s only hotel since 2017 and seen a second pub close in that time and battled through the challenges of COVID that restricted trading.
“We did takeaways in the early days of COVID restrictions in the months when like all businesses, things were pretty tough,” he said.
According to Steve, government taxes were an increasing bone of contention for small business owners.
“There’s bigger land tax bills and now the new emergency services tax ... every new tax or tax increase makes it harder. My (council) rates went up $2000 this year,”
“The Government is out of touch completely with the challenges small businesses face and seems to be just treating people with contempt.
“We have a state that is really bankrupt but surely there are better ways to recoup money instead of making it harder for the man on the street.”
Steve said the Empire State Hotel had regular patrons and was also popular with trades people passing through town.
“There’s also potential for the accommodation in the upstairs part of the building,” he said,
The hotel opened in a timber building in 1861 that was destroyed by fire a decade later.
Today’s hotel was built in 1873 and in 1927 the present balcony was added in honour of Inglewood’s first “Back to”.
The 1991 Shire of Korong Heritage and Conservation Study says the facade is stuccoed with ashlar imprinting while the sides of the building reveal Flemish bonded brickwork. The bricks appear to be locally made.
“Visually it is significant as one of the first buildings seen as a visitor enters the main street from the south. It is in close proximity to five other double storey buildings in this block and their combined height gives an impression
of a narrow, 19th century lane and serves to direct attention further down the street,” the study recorded.
Steve said he had the building for sale with or without the liquor licence.
“I hope a buyer will want to keep the hotel open. It’s the only place in town where people can come after work or at weekends and enjoy time relaxing with friends,” said the veteran publican.
RHEOLA Charity Carnival will donate more than $21,000 to two district health services.
Inglewood and Districts Health and Maryborough Health Service’s Dunolly campus will each receive $10,776 after the carnival committee’s annual meeting on Sunday.
Rheola Public Hall and Rheola Recreation Reserve will each receive $5388 in a share of profits from last Easter’s 152nd charity carnival.
Matt Catto was re-elected president with senior vicepresident Glenn Catto, junior vice president Mary-Anne Duke, secretary Deb Hancock and treasurer Lisa Goettler.
In his report, Matt said: “Everyone shares a passion for the carnival, and wants the carnival to continue. It is a place to meet up with people you know.
“A huge thankyou to all the volunteers who come on board and work on the day,” he said.
“The carnival is a tradition - we need to respect that, but we also need to continue to evolve and engage into the future.
“The carnival is a great support for mental health. It is a great reason to get out and meet people, participate and enjoy.”
Steve Barry, Ian Collie, publican Steve Weavel and Lyndon Metcalf at the Empire State Hotel. LH PHOTO
On-call firies praised
RECENT recruits and long-time volunteers have been recognised with CFA service awards.
Members of the Boort, Yando and Barraport brigades were presented with their awards by Loddon commander Bryan Suckling at a function in Boort on Friday night.
Mr Suckling said volunteers were part of their brigade 24 hours day.
“It can be harder for volunteers than career firefighters who log off from their shift. Volunteers
COFFEE BREAK
are in the community (responding to incidents) 24 hours a day,” Mr Suckling said.
Yando brigade’s Paul Haw received a 60-year medal while five-year certificates were presented to Molly Meadows,, Ashraf Takla and Mitchell Cockerell.
Mitchell, who is third lieutenant of the Yando brigade, and Boort communications officer Tim Lan
yon also received the national emergency medal during the evening.
-
Bryan Sucking presents Paul Haw with his 60year medal for service to the Yando brigade (left) while 55-year medals were presented to Daryl Henderson, Ian Potter and Rod Stringer. LH PHOTOS
Ashraf Takla, MItchell Cockerell and Molly Meadows
David Meadows, (45 years), Paul Nelson (40), Ian Lanyon (45) and Peter Darker (45)
30 and 35 years: Awarded to Margaret Piccoli, Richard Cockerell, Craig Slatter, Ashley Gawne, Grant Malone, Craig Allison
20 and 25 years: Awarded to Adam Pottere, Mark Minogue, Gary Zanker, Lee Lanyon, Justin Streader, Doug Couper, Robert Johnston, Simon Henderson
10 and 15 years: Awarded to Cleo Lanyon, Vikki Couper, Darlene Armfield, Gary Armfield, Dean Wykes, Brenton Henderson, Luke Stomann, Tim Lanyon, Russel Talbot, Jon Bucknall
Beasts and birds in flight at mural hall
HARD work and a strong sense of community are behind the beautifully maintained recreation area of the tiny township of Calivil, one of Loddon’s best-kept secrets.
So, Calivil resident Sue Lea reached out through the clubs and activity group networks around Calivil Memorial Hall to ensure that the exhibition they will host for the Loddon Valley Arts Trail next weekend will be something special.
“Our hall is central to our community, as the mural on its wall showing some of the history shows,” Sue says.
“We’ve bounced back well from the 2022 floods when the hall was a safe haven, so we are ready to welcome visitors to our part of Loddon shire,” she says.
“The exhibition that will be on here across the three days is very exciting, with all kinds of artwork that has something for everyone.
“We’d love to see lots of visitors head to Calivil.”
The exhibition Beasts Birds Beyond is one of the feature shows on the Arts Trail program.
It includes big wire animal sculptures by Clunes artist Tom Ripon, ink paintings of magpies,
and other Central
beasts paintings by Gunbower artist Rebecca Wells and bronze dog sculptures by Jane Wells.
Work by the renowned cartoonist Jon Kudelka and the Bendigo children’s book illustrator Chris Kenny will also be on show.
Local artist Jo Guthrie will be running three Paint’n’Sip sessions across the weekend and the students from the East Loddon College have created Beasts Birds Beyond artwork especially for the exhibition.
“The arts trail slogan is ‘out there – in every way’”, Sue says.
“This will certainly show people how good it is to get out there and enjoy our beautiful part of
Loddon shire.” The network of exhibitions that link venues right around the shire is attracting interest from all around the region and Melbourne.
The installation of artworks begins this week, as halls and other venues prepare for the three days of exhibitions and events.
Wedderburn Korong Vale RSL will host a preview in Wedderburn Literary Institute Hall of an installation prepared by the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum this Sunday.
The opening event of the Arts Trail weekend is next Thursday at the Eucy Distillery Museum in Inglewood where the winners of the inaugural Eucy Art Show will be announced by judge Terry Jarvis.
Snaps of a newspaper icon
PHOTOGRAPHS taken by newspaper industry icon Gary Meadows will go on display at Boort Memorial Hall from next Friday as part of Loddon Valley Arts Trail.
The late Mr Meadows was owner and editor of the former Boort and Quambatook Standard and his son David has curated the special display.
Also part of hall exhibition will be Stuart Tweddle’s fantasmagoria sculptures, Blake Slatter’s photography, Kristen Cowland’s paintings and cards and artworks by Jodi Curtis and Fiona Summerville.
Boortrait entries will be displayed in thhe hall with more than 60 entries of residents from around Boort in different art mediums capturing the faces of local people. Over the weekend they will be judged by Peoples Choice.
The Memorial Hall will have an information table directing visitors to other Loddon Arts sites in and around Boort.
be exhibiting their art works, Sophia Piccoli will be presenting her art work in the Commonwealth Bank in Godfrey Streeet.
In the Senior Citizens Club Rooms, BBAC Productions will be presenting their comedy play Love or Nearest Offer.
Paul and Cathie Haw will open the Aboriginal Artefacts Museum which will include Paul’s Vietnam War photos and photography by John Hunter Kerr.
“The best place for everyone to start the trail in Boort is at the memorial hall,” said Paul.
“There has been great collaboration and co-operation across the district this year for the Loddon Valley Arts Trail.
“The trail is really showcasing local artists across so many mediums. The variety of art forms says so much about the talent in Boort and every other community across the Loddon Shire,” Paul said.
choughs
Victorian birds by Newstead artist Ken Killeen, three new birds and
In the James Boyle Hall Nathan Sims and Sarah Wallis-Smith will
Rebecca Wells’ best artworks will be on show at Calivil
Stuart Tweddle
From a Single Backhoe to a Leader in Recycling Organics
How One Man’s Vision Transformed Waste into a Sustainable Industry.
What began with a single backhoe and a bold idea in the mid-1970s has grown into one of Australia’s leading organics processing and growing media businesses.
In 1975, Hans and Marjan Van Schaik launched JA & MJ Van Schaik Earthmoving Contractors. At the time, bark and sawdust from timber mills were traditionally discarded or burned and considered worthless waste. But Hans had other ideas. He saw potential in those by-products and began experimenting with ways to transform them into something useful: compost, mulches, and growing media.
Just three years later, in 1978, Hans and Marjan purchased a 12-acre disused quarry near Mount Gambier, South Australia. There, they established Van Schaik’s Organic Soils and Bark Supplies, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Van Schaik’s Bio Gro.
By the early 1980s, the company had secured long-term bark supply contracts with local millssome of which still stand today. A decade later, in 1990, they reached a major turning point: winning the contract to manage wastepaper pulp and tissue by-products for Kimberly-Clark. This propelled the company into industrial-scale organics processing and required the development of a dedicated
composting site.
In 1995, the business officially became Bio Gro, marking the beginning of a wholesale distribution network across South Australia and Victoria. In 1998, the Australian Potting Mix Company in Bayswater, Victoria, was acquired and this marked Bio Gro’s entry into the Victorian market and growing media industry.
“...today,
Bio Gro plays a vital role in helping councils, businesses, and households
close the loop...”
Recognition soon followed. In 2000, Hans Van Schaik received the prestigious World Forestry Day Award for his innovation and contribution to the forestry industry. Meanwhile, Bio Gro continued to drive growth through investments in advanced packaging technology, the acquisition of new businesses, and the consolidation of operations across Victoria. By 2011, the company had secured its first major kerbside green waste contract with the City of Casey, processing 35,000 tonnes annually.
Even as the business scaled-up, it remained proudly family-owned. In 2013, Han’s son, Stephen and wife Heather Van Schaik became majority shareholders, and by 2015 the family had regained full ownership. This ensured that Bio Gro’s original
vision of ‘innovation built on strong family values and a commitment to community’ remained at the heart of the business.
The next decade was one of rapid growth with Bio Gro becoming a leader in kerbside green waste processing. By being awarded the Eastern Tender in 2019, Bio Gro began its expansion further into Victoria, and embraced the rise of FOGO (food organics and garden organics). In 2021, Bio Gro pioneered Australia’s first inline FOGO decontamination and shredding line, followed by a second stage in 2024 that doubled capacity, separation and processing capabilities.
For Bendigo and regional central Victoria, the story became even more local in 2022, when Bio Gro acquired a composting site in Newbridge, within the Loddon Shire. Through approved EPA licenses and significant infrastructure investment in facilities and processes, Bio Gro’s composting capacity has expanded from 50,000 to 160,000 t/a. Bio Gro has also invested heavily in regional infrastructure, including a 3,000-square-metre large-scale automated packaging line and warehouse - all creating local jobs and strengthening Victoria’s organics processing capacity.
Today, Bio Gro plays a vital role in supporting councils, businesses, and households “close the loop” – refining waste once destined for landfill into high-quality composts, mulches, and growing media and reapplying it back into parks
and gardens, agriculture and landscapes. With a footprint stretching across South Australia and Victoria, Bio Gro processes hundreds of thousands of tonnes of organics each year, reducing emissions and creating products that grow food, green spaces, and champion community pride.
From humble beginnings with a single backhoe, Bio Gro has built a legacy of sustainability, family values, and innovation. And in many ways, this journey was just beginning. With the rise of FOGO services, growing demand for sustainable products, and continued investment in Victorian regional communities like Newbridge, Bio Gro is proud to remain at the forefront of organics processing - supporting the Loddon Shire and surrounding municipalities in their quest for a greener and more sustainable future.
Bio Gro: Part of your Community
Bio Gro is proud to support local communities across the Loddon Shire.
From sponsoring the Newbridge Football Netball Club and the Marong Golf Club, to collaborating with regional government bodies, Bio Gro is dedicated to supporting local communities.
The Newbridge facility offers future local employment opportunities, which are supported through partnerships such as those with Bendigo TAFE. This initiative not only supports the next generation of agriculture students but also provides them real-world experience in large-scale processing.
Find your Career at Bio Gro
Bio Gro is only as good as its employees. Join the Bio Gro family.
Bio Gro is built on strong values: family, innovation, and sustainability. The company is proud to create high-quality composts, mulches, and growing media, all from organic materials that might otherwise go to waste.
Every year, Bio Gro recovers hundreds of thousands of tonnes of organic material and turns it into quality premium potting mix, compost, and mulch - closing the loop towards a circular economy and reducing landfill.
From machine operators to environmental scientists, from truck drivers to technicians, Bio Gro is made up of everyday people doing exceptional things. And the company is growing at a rapid rate. Bio Gro operates across three key regions:
Mount Gambier, South Australia - Home to the company head office and our Wandilo Facility. Mount Gambier is the heart of the Limestone Coast. A relaxed regional city with strong community, affordable living, and stunning natural surrounds.
Dandenong South, Victoria - The receival facility in Melbourne’s southeast. With opportunity,
Bio Gro is proud to support local community events that reflect its strong family values and commitment to environmental stewardship, including the Bendigo Sustainability Festival, the Loddon Valley Arts Festival and the Newbridge Arnold Llanelly Community Plan (NALCP) Garden and Yard Expo. As an Australian-owned business, these events help Bio Gro connect with the local community and provide continuous improvement in organic resource recovery.
Bio Gro’s commitment to the Loddon Shire and surrounding municipalities goes beyond business, it is about enhancing sustainability and liveability across regional Victoria.
convenience, and the energy of city life, this is the place to be. Just 40 minutes away from one of the greatest cities in the world.
Newbridge, Victoria - located near one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regional cities Bendigo. A lifestyle destination, known for its vibrant arts, culture, and easy access to nature.
Bio Gro isn’t just a place to work, it’s a place to belong. As a family-owned business, it understands that people come first. The company supports flexible work arrangements, ongoing training, and career development.
Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, want a hands-on role in manufacturing, or you’re looking to build a career in an industry that matters, Bio Gro has a role for you.
Join a company where your work has purpose. Van Schaik’s Bio Gro.
Scan the QR code to discover more about a career at Bio Gro
Bio Gro Company Founder, Hans Van Schaik
The wool market continued to rally last week, with the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (AWEX-EMI) advancing by 25 cents. It was the ninth straight weekly rise, the longest sequence of consecutive gains since 2009. Daily results also reinforced the strong momentum, with both selling days recording increases. This extended the daily rally to sixteen consecutive sessions, the longest since AWEX records began in 1997.
The EMI is now at its highest level since March 2023. Auctions this week followed a familiar pattern with 29,923 bales offered across two days in Sydney and Melbourne and a single day in Fremantle. Although volumes for the season remain seven percent below last season, the recent sales have seen catalogue sizes comparable to 2024 levels. The market opened on a positive note, with most Micron Price Guides (MPGs) rising ten to twenty cents clean on Tuesday, lifting the EMI by ten cents for the day.
Unlike recent weeks where the second day of selling delivered only modest gains, Wednesday produced a stronger outcome. The EMI climbed a further fifteen cents, the largest second-day increase in nearly a year. Across the series, the MPGs finished the week between 20 and 60 cents higher, with superfine types attracting particular interest. A highlight in these microns was a 12.9-micron line that achieved 8,500 cents greasy, the highest price for the 2025 calendar year. Crossbreds also continued their rally, with the 26-MPG up by as much as 64 cents. Merino Skirtings made steady progress across both days, supported by strong demand for best-length, low-vegetable matter lots. Merino Cardings added a further ten to twenty cents, with the betterprepared types enjoying solid competition from buyers.
This week’s national offering is forecast at just over 30,000 bales in Sydney,Melbourne and Fremantle.
Chris Anderson Territory Sales Manager | 0408 921 540
Glenn Jackson | Merchandise Manager | 0429 076 459
At McKean McGregor, we take pride in delivering professional and innovative services to our valued clients, helping them market their livestock and property with confidence.
Alex Collins - 0408 314 768
Zeb Broadbent - 0447 002 844
Alex Pollock - 0409 145 832
Will Lowe - 0498 381 584
Drew Stratton - 0414 576 371
Henry Bugge - 0403 671 917
Will Holt - 0417 686 814
Lachie McAllister - 0459 310 797
Mitch A’Vard - 0429 966 572
Shearers on board at school
WEDDERBURN’S annual shearing and wool handling course has had one of its biggest cohort in recent years.
The week-long school attracted nine people for introductory training in shearing shed skills.
Shearer Wooldhandling Trainers’ Stuey Neal, Rick Hodge and Ben Lloyd passed on their expertise to the next generation of shearers along with a few interesting stories from the sheds to keep the week entertaining.
“Shearing schools are the perfect way to gain the basic skills you need to get into the wool industry or to improve your skills to the next level,” said Stuey.
“Our training is shed-based and designed to give real-world, hands on training.”
The school supported by Wedderburn branch of the Victorian Farmers’ Federation has been running for more than 20 years.
Local farmers provide hundreds of Merino sheep for students to shear during the week.
Students at the 2025 school came from across country Victoria.
Wedderburn is one of two shearer training schools in the shire each year. Wakool’s Campbell Robinson takes part of the annual
Tips to stop farm thefts
AGRICULTURE Victoria is driving what is says is a timely online forum on farm theft prevention. Next month’s webinar comes as police across the region had investigated reports of stock and fuel thefts from farms.
Presenters will include AgVic grains industry officer Darryl Pearl, co-founder of AgCloud Grant Sutton, and a representative from Victoria Police Farm Crime Liaison Group.
Topic will include: farm theft trends; physical security solutions; biosecurity and safety Agriculture Victoria says whether farmers are looking to make informed decisions or future-proof farm operations, sessions will offer practical insights and tools to support them in protecting what matters.
Will makes final for third time
STOCK agent Will Holt has qualified for a third year to represent Victoria in the Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association young auctioneers national final.
Will, of McKean McGregor, was runner-up in the state competition in Mortlake last week. Winner was Ballarat’s James Gadd in his third attempt. Will took out the Victorian title last year.
Wedderburn shearing school. LH PHOTO
SLIGHT lift in lamb supply to just over 14,000 head at Bendigo on Monday, with new season lambs now starting to outnumber old shorn stock.
The lamb market didn’t sustain the pace of a week ago, with prices rolling back by $15 to $25 per head over most processing grades.
This put most sales of young lamb in the estimated range of 1050c to 1150c/kg cwt, with not much $12kg evident in this market. However there wasn’t a lot of price change to small young restocking and feeder lambs as competition starts to ramp up, with buyers from Ballarat, Horsham and the local Bendigo area actively competing against each other today.
There was also a processor in the mix again buying young crossbred lambs to lotfeed.
Quality in the old lamb run was
a lot plainer than a week ago with less neat lines off grain available and price results were cheaper. It came as the buying group didn’t show the same push for numbers like last Monday, and bidding wasn’t as consistent with this sale having a noticeable lull in the middle of the auction.
Not all buyers were fully active. In contrast the mutton sale was dearer in places to track either side of last week’s buoyant results. A limited run of export weight young lambs over 30kg cwt sold from $372 to a top of $398/head. Most of the lead young lambs were in the heavy 26-29kg cwt bracket and sold from $300 to $345/head, with the best tradeweights from $260 to $312.
A processor paid from $200 to $220 for lambs estimated in the 16-18kg cwt range to feed – these feeder and store lambs still averag-
Lot 1 - “Curleys” 128.607 ha – 317.7 Ac
Fertile mixed farming land offered in 3 paddocks. Water from 4 Dams and 1 spring with 2 GWM Pipeline connection points available and seasonal flow from Hope Creek. Red loam soils with established timber shelter belts. Power available within 1 km. Substantial agricultural allotment suitable for all facets within the agricultural sector. 85% Arable
Lot 2 - “Rogers” 51.212 Ha – 126.54 Ac Brenanah Kurting Road, Kurting, in two Titles but offering in 1 paddock. 95% Arable. With water course pathway throughout the block with old growth gyms providing excellent shelter belts for livestock. Sandy Kurting loam with a Mallee Clay base. Fencing is stock proof. Water by GWM Pipeline connection and Dam
Lot 3 - “Morses” 50.25 Ha – 124.17
Brenanah Kurting Road, Kurting - 1 Title 1 paddock. 100% Arable. Open land parcel suitable to all facets of livestock and grain production. Sandy Kurting loam with Mallee Clay base. Located 800m from Lot 2. Fencing is stock proof
EOI opens: 25 th September 2025
EOI closing: 30th October 2025 4:30pm sharp at the agents offices
Terms: 10% deposit on the signing of the document, balance in 60 days. Working rights apply upon payment of deposits
Further Particulars/Inspections: Contact Selling Agents Inspection by appointment
James Nevins 0407 302 900 Email: inglewood@fpnevins.com.au Web: www.fpnevins.com.au
ing over 1200c/kg cwt equivalent. It was back to a lot more smaller and mixed lots in the old lamb section. Prices were cheaper with plainer types the most affected. Best heavy lambs $340 to $384/head. Mutton remained very buoyant with heavier sheep dearer in spots and the overall run tracking either side of last week’s elevated price levels. In broad terms the rate was still 700c to 800c/kg cwt for most mutton categories, however more sheep pushed above 800c including some lines of lightweight Merino ewes. Heavy meat ewes $227 to a top of $295/head; heaviest Merinos $230 to $292/head; general run of leaner trade sheep $160 to $220/head; decent light mutton $130 to $160/ head; tail-end ewes $55 to $95/head.
SUCKER
LAMBS
WL & LG & RK Boyd Pyramid Hill (66)
$398. N & M Miller Pyramid Hill (106) $382. DJ & ED Lees Rochester (80) $380. N & D Bradford Deniliquin (48) $348. S & R Snelson Tongala (88) $345. WW & RG Farming Macorna (26) $340. DI Gitsham & Sons Kerang (52) $338. Restdown Farms Echuca (101) $335. WF & SG Thomas Mitiamo (40) $333. PT & KF Howard Goornong (64) $333. BJ & CM Anderson Heathcote South (14) $330. Mark Seers Appin South (54) $330. Lislea Lodge Picola (120) $322. Bennett & McElroy Moulamein (97) $316. DL & TM Jensen Diggora West (55) $299. RE & SL Pedersen Kamarooka (41) $285. Mirnee Partnership Hunter (21) $269. Merran Park Pastoral Barham (39) $267. JF & DL Gibson & Sons Borung (72) $265.
CROSSBRED LAMBS
Steel Kids Newbridge (6) $384. PJ & CJ Eade Lockington (16) $384. Martin J Borger
Colbinabbin (22) $379. C Stirling Rochester (10) $370. Sudholz Farm Taminick (60) $348. J & K Kennedy Pyramid Hill (13) $340. JK & KA O’Callaghan Echuca (11) $300. T & C Maher Goornong (9) $295. Curnow Family Trust Thule (23) $285. Ram J Knowsley (20) $277. CROSSBRED OLD LAMBS
DL & TM Jensen Diggora West (14) $340. JL McCarthy & Co Lancefield (22) $295.
MERINO LAMBS
Ettershank Pastoral Cobramunga (100) $180. RA & SJ Laws Family Trust Pine Lodge (80) $156.
MERINO WETHERS
N Borger Colbinabbin (183) $275. JF & DL Gibson & Sons Borung (120) $250. Woodside Moliagul Moliagul (25) $214. A & V Draper Glenalbyn (82) $203.
CROSSBRED EWES
WJ Whatley Goornong (47) $295. Tyquin Canary Island (63) $294. K & J Keating Campbells Forest (47) $271. Hazelwynde Farms Beveridge (87) $266. N & M Miller Pyramid Hill (9) $256. G Moore Swan Hill (11) $246. Mark Seers Appin South (30) $240. M Hartland Huntly North (17) $236. C McGillivray Mangalore (14) $236. Martin Knight Tylden (15) $224. MERINO EWES
Wanbi Plains Raywood (147) $292. W Gould & Sons Richmond Plains (40) $266. DJ & RJ Cullen Pompapiel (110) $265. J & K Kennedy Pyramid Hill (6) $242. DN & MJ Curnow Thule (108) $236. Bernard Mulquiny Wooroonook (62) $226. Mitak Farms St Arnaud (95) $209.
670.904 Hectares – 1657.8 Acres
Superb Rich Red Sandy Loam to Grey Mix in Multiple Allotments
Lot 1: “Home Block” 126.69 Ha – 312 Ac
In 5 paddocks & House yard. Water by 3 dams, soil suiting all facets of agriculture 95% Arable Substantial improvements include:3 Bedroom Brick Veneer family home, Modern Living together with Entertainment deck, single Carport. Sundry Shedding includes: New Zinc alum Machinery shed 16 m x 21 m with Gravel floor Gal Iron shearing shed, 3 stand with attached sheep yards Machinery shed & workshop with power & partial cement flooring
Lot 2: “Blampieds” (1895 Drummartin Road) 148.4 Ha – 366.696 Ac
In 4 paddocks, single Solar pump Windmill to trough & 3dams. Mix of Red & Grey loam. 85% Arable. Established Native shelter belts. Suiting all forms of agriculture
Lot 3: “Dolmans” 129.0 Ha – 320 Ac Situated on Tandarra Road. Including 6 paddocks with 4 dams. Heavy Red Loam soil mix to Mallee stone rises. Established pasture, suitable to all aspects of agriculture
Lot 4: “Kitchen” - 74.6 Ha – 184.353 Ac Rich Red Loam in 3 paddocks with 2 dams & Windmill bore to trough
Lot 5: “Hockings” - 161.19 Ha – 400.777 Ac
Offering 5 paddocks with 32.37 Ha Wetland Water available by Solar pump and Windmill bore to trough and dams. Red Sandy Loam to Grey Loam mix in excellent heart.. Set of sheep yards. 80% Arable
Lot 6: “Hunters” - 29.94 Ha – 73.98 Ac
One paddock, Red / Grey Sandy Loam, 1 dam
Terms: 10% deposit on signing, balance 60/90 days or earlier by agreement
Working rights apply if requested
EOI opens 3rd September 2025, closes 29th September 2025 Inspection by appointment only
Further particulars / Inspections: Contact Selling Agents James Nevins: 0407 302 900
•
& QUIZ
Tax sends little volunteers’ way
By LEIGH HARRY
A NEW fire services tax has been introduced, and it’s hitting every Victorian household, farm, and small business hard — particularly in rural and regional communities.
Let’s be clear: this is not just a small adjustment. This new Emergency Services Volunteers Fund levy (ESVF), will raise an additional $610 million in its first year alone. But where is that money really going?
Despite the word “volunteers” being included in the name of the fund — suggesting that CFA and its volunteers will benefit significantly — the reality tells a very different story. It is estimated that only 20 cents in every dollar collected will go to the CFA. That’s right — just 20 cents.
The majority of this massive new tax is being diverted to government departments and public sector agencies, making a mockery of the claim that it’s about supporting emergency services.
Even more insulting is that it will cost $12 million to administer the tax — a figure confirmed in Parliamentary Estimates.
That’s $2 million more than what’s been allocated to the CFA fleet upgrade, which is urgently needed to support our firefighters on the ground.
Let’s be honest — this is a State
Government tax, not a community initiative. Councils are being forced to collect it through our rates.
It affects every ratepayer, regardless of their financial position or how vulnerable their community might be. Your council can advise you of how much is being pulled from your Shire. But perhaps the most offensive part is that CFA volunteers — the very people this tax is supposed to support — are now being asked to pay for the service they provide, for free, to their own communities.
Volunteers shouldn’t have to fund their own equipment, their own trucks, or their own stations. They already give enough: their time, their skills, their courage — often at great personal cost.
The Government argues that more frequent natural disasters mean more pressure on emergency services.
That’s true. But if that’s the justification, then why is less money going to the largest emergency service in Victoria — the CFA — which is powered by 55,000 volunteers?
Words and platitudes from politicians won’t extinguish a fire or rescue a neighbour. We need real funding, not empty promises.
The community knows it. The volunteers know it.
And the strong turnout at our
recent rallies shows that Victorians are ready to speak up.
We are calling on our fellow Victorians to stand together — not just to say no to an unjust tax, but to demand a fair and responsible approach to emergency services funding. One that doesn’t punish hard-working Victorians, rural families, or small businesses already doing it tough.
We want to remind those in power: we determine the future we want to live in. If we stay silent, we accept the status quo. But if we speak with one voice, we can drive real change.
The CFA Volunteers Group will continue to show up and speak up. We are proud to be part of our community, volunteers that care deeply and act decisively.
To the Government: We won’t just get angry, we are ready. We will make our voices heard. We will continue to fight for our families and friends. We will fight for our future. And we will not be silenced
We believe in the power of community. Together, we will make a difference.
Leigh Harry is secretary of the CFA Volunteers Group Inc.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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
1. The hawk-eye tennis line call technology was introduced in which year?
2. In which country is it believed that wine was first produced?
3. Which cartoon character is famous for the line “what’s up doc”?
4. ‘Lion King’ characters Timon and Pumba are what type of animals?
5. In French what does ‘Bonjour’ mean?
6. It’s often said that Italy is shaped like what item of clothing?
7. Astronomy is the study of what?
8. What is the first name of famous painter Picasso?
9. Actor and wrestler Dwayne Johnson is known by what nickname?
10. The number system known as binary is formed of which two digits?
11. What shape is a Give Way sign?
12. Spiderman gained his powers after being bit by what?
T HERE’LL be lots of ribbing up Boort way over the next few days ... the town’s No 1 Cat fan is sure to be the subject of jibes and barbs ahead of the AFL Grand Fnal. You see, Big Al was down at the G last Friday night to watch his pussy cats book a spot in the big day of the year. And back home, some of his mates were optimistic early in the evening that they would be able to send text messages of glee when Collingwood was looking the goods. Those messages from Lanyon and Co and are currently in the drafts folder in anticipation of hitting send about 5pm Saturday.
FAMOUS local cohort has been reported as delving into the photo albums of a mate and unearthed a classic 80s picture of a tanned and bronzed young bloke. According to text messages received by OTF, said photo subject claimed he wanted to be known as Casanova. Further banter between mates settled on Ken, from Barbie fame. In case you don’t know, Ken’s full name is Kenneth Sean Carson Jr. Ken is from Willows, Wisconsin, and has a fashionable line of clothing and accessories (although he made his debut wearing only a swimsuit).
13. What is a pomelo?
14. In original ‘The Wizard of Oz’ movie, what breed of dog is Toto?
15. According to Greek mythology, what is Medusa’s hair made of?
16. It is said that vampires dislike what food product?
17. Of the five major oceans, which is the saltiest?
18. What is Australia’s national flower?
19. What is the most common element in the human body?
20. What are prunes?
AND did you know Barbie - Barbara Millicent Roberts - is from the same town. She was launched in 1959 and Ken arrived on the scene two years later.
NOW back to the photo subject, he was pretty chuffed to be compared to super full model Ken. Even stopped outside Bridgewater Post Office last week to show photo to friends as they rattled the brains to determine the year. One big clue came in the clothing. Must have been mid or late 80s, the brown suit had been replaced by blue.
DID you know: In positive settings, brown suggests warmth, safety, and reliability. It’s dependable and honest. But in other contexts, it can feel dull or too serious if not balanced with light or texture.
BUSHY TALES BY IAN JONES
Stories of a century told with a smile
THERE’S a glint in the eyes, a grin and infectious smile ... the man known as Boort’s official bugler for generations and builder of countless homes in the district is telling stories.
Every one of them true, stories accumulated in a life that for Alan Streader now spans more than 100 years.
Listening on Saturday were generations of his family and friends who gathered to help the Loddon Shire’s newest centenarian celebrate a great life being part of his community.
“How lucky are we – blessed with the best ... not that many families get to celebrate such an occasion with their Super Hero Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad and friend,” were words constantly used by family.
Son Kevin said Alan had been an amazing positive role model and “an inspiration to us all”.
“A beacon for us to follow and we cannot thank him enough for sharing his guidance, knowledge and love.”
Alan himself had a quick-witted answer when asked about his life story: “How long is your piece of string --- as long as my 100 years of stories.”
Born to Edgar and Olive Streader, Alan has lived all his life in Boort and worked in the family business E. Streader and Sons. And as family says, he regularly points out many of the long standing homes in and around Boort that were either built or renovated by the Streader team.
It is as the official bugler for RSL commemo-
rations that Alan is revered in the community.
He had his first lesson on the cornet as a nineyear-old from the legendary Bob McCaskill, of Bendigo, a champion brass band conductor and footballer for Richmond and later coach of North Melbourne and Hawthorn.
McCaskill started bands in many country communities around central Victoria after his return from World War One.
“I joined because I was very keen.
“Started playing the euphonium that produces beautiful rich notes and then switched to the cornet when the band needed a solo cornet player,” he said. “Over the years we had brass bands at three different times in Boort. The last once finished in the 1970s ... like everything, it faded away.”
Alan was also noted in younger days as a key member of the local Church of Christ choir.
This year on Anzac Day, Alan became an online sensation when a Loddon Herald video of his rendition of the Last Post was viewed by more than 100,000 people.
The spritely centenarian thinks he will still have the puff to sound the evocative bugle call again next April.
As local RSL sub-branch president Paul Haw says, Alan’s renditions “put a tear in our eyes.
How long is your piece of string --- as long as my 100 years of stories
Celebrating a century ... Alan Streader at his 100th birthday party on Saturday
DEATH NOTICES
HAYES - Ernest Francis
18.06.1948 – 20.09.2025
Aged 77 years
In loving memory of Ernie, who passed away unexpectedly at Frankston Hospital.
Loved father of Joy and Lisa, father-in-law of Michael and Matthew. Pa of Joshua, Emily, Carissa and Liam. Will be sadly missed by family and friends. Rest peacefully, always in our memories.
WALTON - James Frederick
24.06.1935 – 21.09.2025
Loving partner of Debra (dec.).
Father to Joanne, James, Roslyn, Mark and Kevin.
Pop and Grandad to 13. Reunited with Mum
For funeral arrangements please see www.williamfarmer.com.au
FUNERAL NOTICE
HAYES
A Thanksgiving Service for the life of Mr. Ernest Francis Hayes “Ernie” will be held at Church of Christ, 26 Reef St., Wedderburn on MONDAY October 6 at 11am, followed by a burial at the Wedderburn Cemetery.
Inglewood / Bendigo – 5438 3189
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
LODDON AUSTRALIA DAY COMMITTEE – TARNAGULLA WARD REPRESENTATIVE
Expressions of interest are invited from residents of the Loddon Shire Tarnagulla Ward to ll a vacant position on the Loddon Australia Day Committee.
The Loddon Australia Day Committee comprises a volunteer community representative from each Loddon Shire Ward, and a Loddon Shire Councillor as non-voting Committee Chairperson.
The Committee meets in-person, at a central location, 1-2 times each year to ful l its role in assessing nominations and selecting Loddon Australia Day Award recipients, and assessing entries and selecting winners of Australia Day competitions.
To be considered for this role, you must be a resident of the Tarnagulla Ward, be able to demonstrate a keen community interest in your Ward and the Loddon Shire, and be available to attend meetings in November and December.
Expressions of interest will be accepted until 9.00 am on Monday, 6 October 2025, by post to the Loddon Australia Day Committee, PO Box 21, Wedderburn, 3518, or email to australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au.
For further information please contact Council on 5494 1200.
EMPLOYMENT
Temporary Street Closure
The following street in Inglewood will be closed to through tra c from 1pm to 5pm on Friday 26 September 2025 as part of the Inglewood Community Spring Fair:
Closure of Storm Lane from Market Place to Verdon Street
LEGAL NOTICE
Faye Jennifer Day late of 8 Greig Street, Korong Vale, VIC 3520, Home Duties, deceased.
CREDITORS, next of kin, and others having claims in respect of the will of the above named deceased, who died on 10 February 2025 are required by the executor, Christopher John Day, c/- the undermentioned solicitor, to send particulars of their claims to him by the 17 December 2025 after which date the executor may convey or distribute the assets, having regard only to the claims of which he then has notice.
MCL LEGAL
78 Napier Street St Arnaud VIC 3478
MEETING
Rheola Pioneers Memorial Park Reserve
CHANGE OF DATE
Notice is given of a Public Meeting to be held at the Rheola Hall on Wednesday 15th October 2025 at 5pm.
The purpose of this meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Rheola Pioneers Memorial Park Reserve for a term of three (3) years. The current committee’s terms will expire.
All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to and on the night.
Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning office or at the meeting. For further enquires please contact the Secretary, Sara Looby on 0410681146.
FOR SALE
Kylie’s masterful power records
KYLIE Findley has had a record breaking year to cement her status as one of Australia’s most formidable powerlifters.
The former Wedderburn College student and daughter of Roger Paterson, has achieved national honours in quick succession.
Within a month, Kylie competed in three separate national championships across three different federations.
She started her competition tour in Brisbane with the Global Powerlifting Committee Nationals in the Open Women’s 110+ division. Despite competing in the open category, Kylie, 56, set Masters records in her age and weight class.
After a flawless performance of nine successful lifts Kylie shattered four national and world Masters records; Squat 167.5kg, Bench Press 75kg and Deadlift 190kg.
She was awarded a bronze medal and a place on the podium for her efforts.
However, when she returned to Brisbane for the CAPO National Titles the following week, a warmup injury threatened to take her out of the competition.
Despite a 140kg barbell acci-
Kylie Findley
dentally rolling down her back and head, leaving her bruised and shaken, Kylie refused to back down.
As a result, she broke her own National Deadlift Record, lifting 185kg, which stood as a World Record at the time of the lift. Kylie also attempted a 190kg deadlift, but judges ruled it incomplete due to a missed lockout.
“While I was disappointed with the decision,” Kylie said, “I was proud that I had managed to lift that weight after the earlier accident.”
She finished the day with the highest score in her age and weight category.
Most recently Kylie wrapped up her triple-title campaign at the Australian Powerlifting League nationals at the Melbourne Convention Centre.
She again broke her own National Deadlift Record, pulling 185kg on her second attempt.
For her final lift, Kylie went all in, attempting a 195kg deadlift— a bold move after a month of relentless competition.
Though she couldn’t complete the lift, she still won the Masters 50–55 years, 110+ division, and placed third in the Open category.
Despite having competed in more national events than most lifters qualify for in one year. Kylie plans to compete in the Police and Emergency Services Games and the GPC Masters Championships later this year.
She has also added CrossFit to her regimen with the goal of competing in a DEKA Strength event in January.
Bairnsdale’s Deadlift Queen isn’t just lifting weights, she’s lifting the bar for what’s possible, and becoming a role model for young female lifters.
JBK joins skipper on flight to kennel
PYRAMID Hill is celebrating its new-found connection with Boort with some major signings for 2026, including a shock return for an AFL premiership star.
New Bulldogs coach Jarrod Fitzpatrick, who was captain and assistant coach with the Magpies this year, has brought with him Boort star Jhye Baddeley-Kelly.
Baddeley-Kelly won the club best-and-fairest in each of his two seasons at Boort, and also finished in the top three in the North Central league’s Feeny Medal in both years.
He kicked 73 goals this season and was named in the best players in 12 games out of 16.
Baddeley-Kelly will be joined at Mitchell Park next season by 2016 AFL premiership winner Shane Biggs, who last played
competitive football in 2023. Biggs appeared in just six games for Boort, kicking nine goals, that season having spent the previous three years on the sidelines.
He played with North Heidelberg in 2019 after retiring from the AFL in 2018.
Biggs, played a key role in the Western Bulldogs’ second-ever flag after beginning his AFL career with Sydney.
Also switching from Boort after three seasons with the Magpies will be Ryan McGhie, a former teammate of Biggs and Fitzpatrick at North Heidelberg. McGhie is a tough defender whose footy resume includes a stint with Marong in 2017. Veteran midfielder-forward Zach Alford has been appointed by the Bulldogs as an assistant coach for next season.
Morning games a new player bid
INGLEWOOD Tennis Association matches will begin three hours earlier this season in a bid to encourage more players.
Games will begin at 10am throughout the season, with a series of competition-wide byes introduced that will allow players a weekend off after every three rounds.
Once again there will be just four teams participating - Powl-
Club honours to Ellings in finish swap with coach
WINNERS of the Loddon Valley league’s football and netball best-and-fairest awards have both failed to win their clubs’ vote.
Bridgewater coach Lachie Sharp won the Frank Harding Medal for the football league best-and-fairest player, while Mitiamo’s Amelia Ludeman took out the league’s Helen Ward Medal for A Grade netball.
However, century goalkicker Sharp was beaten for the Mean Machine best by midfielder Luke Ellings, while veteran goaler Laura Hicks won the Superoos’ award ahead of runner-up Ludeman. Field umpires nominate the best players in the league
awards, while the club championships are decided by internal voting.
Ellings, who finished three votes behind Sharp in the league medal, polled 117 votes in the club count to finish ahead of his coach’s 105 and third placegetter Jack Neylon.
At Mitiamo, Hicks’ 70 votes saw her win the club award by 13 votes.
Both she and Ludeman were named in the league’s Team of the Year as the Superoos went back-to-back as premiers.
Re-appointed coach Luke Lougoon won the football award by the length of the straight, with 99 votes, ahead of Zach Morrison’s 46.
Inglewood’s best went to midfielder Bregon Cotchett (90 votes) ahead of Harry Veitch (54 votes) as the Woodies celebrated a terrific season.
Both players were named in the Loddon Valley Team of the Year, with Cotchett averaging 24.2 disposals (13.3 of them contested) and 6.5 clearances over the season.
Veitch’s statistics were even more impressive, averaging 29.9 disposals (15.7 contested) and nine clearances.
He also won the Woodies’ bestin-finals award, averaging more than 30 disposals in the team’s run from fifth spot on the ladder to the preliminary final.
The A Grade netball side failed
to win a match this season, but the best-and-fairest title was a close run thing, with Lily Wynne’s 38 votes just shading Teresa Fitzpatrick’s 36.
High-leaping utility Kai Daniels won the Pyramid Hill bestand-fairest award from Archie Hildebrandt.
Just four votes separated Morgan Dingwall and Jess Holdstock in the Bulldogs’ A Grade best and fairest.
Ruckman Will Copland won Newbridge’s best ahead of versatile Caleb Sanders.
League A Grade best-and-fairest runner-up Hayley Martiniello won the club award for her excellent season in the centre for the Maroons
ett, Wedderburn Junction, Korong Vale and Fentons Creek. Loddon Eagles withdrew from the competition one match into last season due to a lack of player numbers.
Wedderburn club’s Susie Lockhart said the earlier start would suit families who were already up and about on Saturday mornings.
- GARY WALSH
Luke Lougoon
Luke Ellings
T rios of champions and life members
BOORT
Golf Club has ended its season by celebrating its three Kara Kara champions for the year.
The feat saw Dianne Johnston (83, winner by six shots), Andrew Kane (72, winner by two shots), and Flynn O’Rourke (92, winner by five shots) take out the women’s, men’s and junior championships respectively.
Closing day was highlighted as a family fun day, followed by lunch and club presentations. Life memberships were awarded to Dot Beattie, Dianne Johnstone and Kevin Linehan for up to 33 years of involvement with the club.
Trophies were presented to - B Grade Champion Men: Peter Eicher, Ladies: Gaye Sim. C Grade Champion: Gil Tweddle
Mercer Cup winners: (Best three rounds nett): Men: Kevin Linehan, Ladies: Ros Wright.
Weaver Cup: (Best three rounds over the Championships excluding the Champions) : Men: Damien Lanyon, Ladies: Ros Wright. Singles Knockout - Men: Damien Lanyon, Ladies: Dianne Johnston. Pairs Knockout: Tim Lanyon and Nathan Wright.
Stableford: Gaye Sim, Aggregate Bogey: Dianne Johnston. Piccoli Cup: (Most reduction in handicap) Karen Allison. Teagle Cup: (Fewest putts, best three rounds) Gaye Sim.
SENIORS
OCTOBER 4 & OCTOBER 11
Boort Yando v Arnold
OCTOBER 11
Kingower v Wedderburn Band
OCTOBER 18
Kingower v Arnold
Bridgewater v Boort Yando
OCTOBER 25 (T20)
Arnold v Wedderburn
Bridgewater v Kingower
NOVEMBER 1 (T20)
Wedderburn v Bridgewater
Boort Yando v Kingower
NOVEMBER 8
Wedderburn v Boort Yando
Arnold v Bridgewater
NOVEMBER 15
Arnold v Boort Yando
Wedderburn v Kingower
NOVEMBER 22
Arnold v Kingower
Boort Yando v Bridgewater
NOVEMBER 29
Wedderburn v Arnold
Kingower v Bridgewater
DECEMBER 6
Bridgewater v Wedderburn
Kingower v Boort Yando
DECEMBER 13 (T20) Boort Yando v Wedderburn
Bridgewater v Arnold
JANUARY 10 (T20)
Boort Yando v Arnold Kingower v Wedderburn
JANUARY 17 (T20)
Kingower v Arnold
Bridgewater v Boort Yando
JANUARY 24
T20 Final
JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 7
Arnold v Wedderburn
Bridgewater v Kingower
FEBRUARY 14 & 21
Wedderburn v Bridgewater
Boort Yando v Kingower
FEBRUARY 28
Wedderburn v Boort Yando
Arnold v Bridgewater
MARCH 7 Semi Finals
MARCH 14 Grand Final
OCTOBER 10
Derby v Newbridge
Woodstock on Loddon v Wilsons
Reef
Marong v Harcourt
Lockwood bye
OCTOBER 18
Wilsons Reef v Derby
Harcourt v Lockwood
Newbridge v Marong
Woodstock on Loddon bye
OCTOBER 25
Newbridge v Harcourt
Woodstock on Loddon v Derby
Marong v Lockwood
Wilsons Reef bye
NOVEMBER 1
Derby v Harcourt Lockwood v Woodstock on Loddon
Wilsons Reef v Newbridge
Marong bye
NOVEMBER 8
Lockwood v Wilsons Reef Marong v Derby
Newbridge v Woodstock on Loddon Harcourt bye
NOVEMBER 15 Marong v Woodstock on Loddon
Lockwood v Newbridge Harcourt v Wilsons Reef Derby bye
NOVEMBER 21 (Friday night round)
Wilsons Reef v Marong Woodstock on Loddon v Harcourt Derby v Lockwood Newbridge bye
NOVEMBER 29 Wilsons Reef v Woodstock on Loddon
Newbridge v Derby Harcourt v Marong Lockwood bye
DECEMBER 6
Derby v Wilsons Reef
Marong v Newbridge
Lockwood v Harcourt
Woodstock on Loddon bye
DECEMBER 13
Harcourt v Newbridge
Derby v Woodstock on Loddon
Lockwood v Marong
Wilsons Reef bye
JANUARY 31
Woodstock on Loddon v Lockwood
Harcourt v Derby
Newbridge v Wilsons Reef
Marong bye
FEBRUARY 7
Wilsons Reef v Harcourt
Newbridge v Lockwood
Woodstock on Loddon v Marong
Derby bye
FEBRUARY 13 (Friday night round)
Woodstock on Loddon v Newbridge
Derby v Marong
Wilsons Reef v Lockwood
Harcourt bye
FEBRUARY 21
Marong v Wilsons Reef
Harcourt v Woodstock on Loddon
Lockwood v Derby Newbridge bye
FEBRUARY 28
Semi Finals
MARCH 14
Grand Final 14/03/26
JUNIORS
OCTOBER 4 & 11
Boort Yando v Bridgewater
Kingower v Wedderburn
OCTOBER 18
Kingower v Boort Yando
Wedderburn v Bridgewater
OCTOBER 25
Boort Yando v Wedderburn
Bridgewater v Kingower
NOVEMBER 1
Bridgewater v Boort Yando
Wedderburn v Kingower
NOVEMBER 8 & 15
Boort Yando v Kingower
Bridgewater v Wedderburn
NOVEMBER 22 & 29
Wedderburn v Boort Yando
Kingower v Bridgewater
DECEMBER 6 & 13
Boort Yando v Bridgewater
Kingower v Wedderburn
JANUARY 17 & 24
Kingower v Boort Yando
Wedderburn v Bridgewater
JANUARY 31 & FEBRUARY 7
Boort Yando v Wedderburn
Bridgewater v Kingower
FEBRUARY 21 Semi Finals
FEBRUARY 28 Grand Final
New Boort club life members Dot Beattie, Kevin Linehan and Di Johnstone (above) and Kara Kara champions Di, Flynn O’Rourke and Andrew Kane
Loddon HERALD sport
LEACH SWITCHES SUMMER CODE
JAYDEN Leach, the best cricketer in the Upper Loddon Association, has stepped away from the game.
Leach, who won every batting and bowling award available to him last season with Kingower, will instead play lawn bowls with Bridgewater over the summer.
A troublesome lower back has forced the move, with Leach telling the Loddon Herald he hoped to return to cricket after a year’s recuperation.
However, he may not be totally lost to the reigning premiers this season, with a promise to fill in if needed at Kingower, but only with the bat.
Leach, who was club captain, won both
By GARY WALSH
the batting and bowling averages for the Upper Loddon Cricket Association last season. He scored 511 runs at 51.1, including a century, and took 32 wickets at a remarkable 8.38 in leading Kingower to the premiership, defeating Wedderburn Band in the grand final at Arnold. “I had an ongoing back injury through last season and I thought I needed to take a year off to let the body heal,” Leach said.
“I told the club last year that if we won the premiership I would leave, and if we didn’t I’d stick around.”
Leach played football this season for Loddon Valley club Calivil.
“The back wasn’t too bad playing but when I pulled up it was really sore,” he said.
Doctors and physiotherapists have been unable to find any stress fractures in his back, and told him it was his choice whether to play cricket or not. Leach said he expected lawn bowls to be much easier on his back and he was looking forward to his first season on the greens.
Kingower will begin senior pre-season training tonight.
The Upper Loddon season will start on October 4 with a two-day clash between Boort Yando and Arnold Redbacks.
The grand final rematch will be on October 11 when Kingower hosts Wedderburn.
Mums, daughters court success
BOORT’S premiership-winning C Reserve grade netballers were all about keeping it in the family this season.
Three mother-daughter combinations won medals after the Magpies downed Calder United 48-20 in the North Central grand final played at Wedderburn.
Club legend Kristen Gooding has played more than 500 games for Boort and captained the premiership team, but she declared it was “pretty special” to celebrate the win with her 14-year-old daughter Indi.
Stacey Streader shared the victory with her daughter Laci, while Karlee Gilmour played alongside 15-year-old daughter Sophie, who took home the best-on-court medal.
Karlee came out of retirement at the start of the season, planning just to play a single game with Sophie, but according to Gooding she enjoyed herself so much that she decided to see out the year.
“We have a band of really close friends who happened to have fantastic juniors,” Gooding said.
The premiership “family” Laci and Stacey Streader, Kristen and Indi Gooding, Karlee and Sophie Gilmore. LH PHOTO
