Loddon Herald 25 May 2023

Loddon HERALD

Mayor in Canberra tackling AEMO, water concerns

CAPITAL VOICE

FEARS more water buy-

backs will cripple

Loddon

irrigation farms about to be dotted 80-metre high transmission are being voiced in Canberra.

Loddon Mayor Dan Straub flew to the national capital on Tuesday with other leaders from Murray River Group of Councils.

The local government group

By CHRIS EARL

was expected to meet with Federal Government ministers and advisors yesterday before returning to Victoria this morning.

Before leaving for Canberra, Cr Straub said the group, originally formed as a voice for councils in irrigation districts, would take concerns on “the two big issues at the moment” to ministers, push-

ing collective cases for better consultation on Australian Energy Market Operator transmission line plans and opposition to more water buybacks in Victoria.

“Communities in all of the council areas that include Gannawarra and Swan Hill want to better leverage the future of local communities who are within the declared renewable energy zone,” Cr Straub said.

“And we all want that to include

social licence for our areas,” he said. “We won’t be railroaded and we want far better and proper consultation on AEMO plans.”

A decision on the final route for VNI West transmission line is expected with in days.

Cr Straub said the delegation would also tell the Federal Government that water buybacks across the region would be “detrimental to irrigation communities and our surrounding towns.”

Magnificent machines motor into town

STUDEBAKERS, Fords, Vauxhaulls and dozens of cars sporting long-lost motoring marques motored into the Loddon on Sunday.

Bridgewater’s Kate and Dave Edwards were among many who flocked to see the pre-World War Two vintage vehicles when they descended on Inglewood Recreation Reserve for lunch.

Earlier, vehicles took the vista of Brooke Street back a century and owners browsed antique stores.

Others headed to Kooyoora State Park for a morning of exploration on the final day of the inaugural rally for pioneering motoring vehicles.

More than 80 cars, some 110 years old, took part in the rally.

shed in

240V power & cement floor.

“We can’t have any more forced buybacks in our part of the Murray Darling Basin,” Cr Straub said.

Victorian Farmers Federation has said Government plan to buyback water ignored all evidence of the devastation farming communities will be forced to endure.

A report last year claimed a $900 million economic catastrophe from lost production caused by water buybacks under the basin plan

One of Inglewood’s lovely modern homes, built in 1985, this excellently positioned family home offers quality fixtures and fittings, all within an easy functioning family home. Offering 3 big spacious bedrooms with the Master bedroom having a deep walk in robe & Ensuite, the other bedrooms with built in robes. Large bathroom with separate Shower, Bath & Vanity along with a big Laundry with separate Toilet. Heating & cooling is from the Reverse Cycle, ducted units. Outside is a lovely patio on the East side & a small fernery on the West side. Coupled with a large double carport with enclosed fencing in the backyard, this home is very Pet friendly. A 6m x 7.5m Colorbond

the rear yard, compliments the home with full

BRADLEY of Boort tells us he has been a bit on the busy side of late ... providing explanation for the delay in erecting a new Treemendous sign. If his latest offering is an accurate mirror, it could just be that Bradley has been procrastinating.

UNLIKE Len over in Wedderburn where he has resurrected an oldie to encourage diners at Julie’s 24 Karat Cafe to shed the dietary shackles and tuck right in. Len’s blackboard offering says it all: The more you weigh, the harder you are to kidnap. Stay safe, eat cake.

WHILE we’re recording cafe developments across the Loddon, would be extremely remiss to not recognise man’s (and women too) greatest friends in life. Deb at Cousin Jack’s in Inglewood has just added a new pie line. Yes, when supping a chunky beef and caramelised onion or other speciality pastry, we can pamper Spot or Rover with a special Pooch Pie. You can hear the pups barking their orders at the counter now.

WE say Spot or Rover yet they’re so old hat for dog’s names. Apparently the top 10 boy dog names in 2022 were: Max, Charlie, Cooper, Milo, Buddy, Rocky, Bear, Teddy, Duke and Leo. On the female side, the top names were: Luna, Bella, Daisy, Lucy, Lily, Zoe, Lola, Sadie, Bailey and Stella. And the “trending names” turned out to be Fezco,

Cassini, Mossberg, Mirabel, Kyna, Mommy, Monka, Tohru, Frederico and Beige.

PROCRASTINATION and dogs have been known to go together. We’ve all heard the story about students sloppy timing handing in homework and blaming the dog. The story may just be more true than not after finding a news report from last year out of Queensland. Seven-year-old Johnny (true name) told a journalist he just had a few words left on his spelling homework. “I had three words left on set 11 and then I had set 12,” he said. “And then Olive the dog just ate my homework.” His mum Emily came home to a “devastated” Johnny whose hard work was ruined by the hungry terrier.

OVER in Britain, dogs go everywhere with the owners and pub night is a favourite. One UK newspaper recently wrote about Helen from Warwickshire, taking her five-year-old dog Tommy out for regular dates to her local pub, where they share steak and kidney pie with mash over candlelight, and dress up at swanky hotels on special occasions.

ADOG walks into a bar. Bartender nods and says, “Hey dog, haven’t seen you in a while, how are things going?” Dog looks at him sadly and replies, “Ruff.” Or this one, in the style of procrastination. A dog walks into a bar and says, “Bartender, get me a jack … and Coke. Sure thing, but what’s with the small pause?” asks the bartender. The reply: “I don’t know, I’ve had them my whole life.”

Norm Walkington (centre) presents recognition medallions to Bill Quinn and Alan Guthrie at the Lions gathering for National Volunteer Week.

Reviver volunteers honoured

LONG-TIME Lions club members

Alan Guthrie and Bill Quinn have been recognised for their contribution to running the Driver Reviver stop on the Loddon Highway each Easter.

They were presented with special service medallions by past district governor Norm Walking-

ton when Lions from East Loddon, Pyramid Hill and Cohuna clubs met in Dingee during National Volunteer Week last week. Medallions were struck by the Driver Reviver organisaton to honour volunteers who have supported the road safety initiative over many years.

Shire flies rainbow flag for first time

THE rainbow flag was flown outside Loddon Shire offices in Wedderburn for the first time last week.

Rainbow Local Government campaigners last November sent council a 33-signature petition on the morning of its meeting asking Loddon to fly the rainbow flag on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex

discrimination and Transphobia - May 17.

Activists had lobbied all councils that were not flying the rainbow flag on IDAHOBIT day.

Cr Linda Jungwirth last week said she was delighted to see the flag flown. A funeral for former federal minister Tony Staley meant flags outside the offices at were half-mast.

Reservoir, water works top local spending list

WORKS at Laanecoorie headline Loddon spending in this year’s State Budget delivered on Tuesday.

New Ripon MP Martha Haylett said the Government was delivering on its election promises and “investing in what matters for the people of Ripon”.

But Murray Plains MP and Nationals leader Peter Walsh says the Government’s ninth budget would make life harder for regional Victorians with funding slashed in key areas of roads, health and agriculture.

The Government has also introduced a 10-year tax on business property and holiday home owners to rein in rising debt from spending during COVID.

Funding has been included in Budget papers for a $3 million raw water storage and pump station at Laanecoorie.

The project is to be finished by June next year.

Another $4.618 million will be spent upgrading the spillway and outlet at Laanecoorie reservoir with Ms Haylett saying the Budget also has $800,000 for a new boat ramp at the reservoir.

Coliban Water has also had $1.6 million included in the Budget towards a new biosolids base on 10 hectares at the Dunolly Water Reclamation Plant. Biosolids will be trucked from other water reclamation plants in the region up to twice a week.

Biosolids are a by-product of the wastewater treatment process, organic material left over after sewerage treatment

The Government has funded its June 2022 commitment to build 50 government-owned and operated early learning centres “in communities that have the

greatest need for more childcare and kindergarten places”.

Budget papers papers say the centres will offer “child care, three and four-year-old kindergarten and then transition to include pre-prep. In some cases they will be co-located with services like maternal and child health services and playgroups”.

The Government announced in the lead up to last November’s election that one centre would be in the Loddon Shire.

Ms Haylett said on Tuesday that Budget allocations provided clarity for consultation to begin on the location of the Loddon’s centre.

The Budget also includes the latest tranche of funds for upgrades announced in the 2022 fi-

nancial blueprint at Wedderburn College and East Loddon P12 College.

Spending in this new financial year at East Loddon will be $6.345 million, half the total project bill of $12.754 million.

Work on the $12.886 million Wedderburn upgrade has been allocated $4.729 million for 2023-2024.

“We know education changes lives. With this Budget, we’re making sure students in rural and regional Victoria can get the world-class education they deserve, close to home,” Ms Haylett said.

And she said the Budget was “backing the community organisations that provide care, support, and services to help Vic-

IN BRIEF

VFF chief appointed

Victorian Farmers’ Federation has announced Brendan Tatham has been appointed chief executive officer to lead the state’s peak agricultural advocacy organisation. Mr Tatham joined the VFF as Interim CEO last November and was successful following an extensive recruitment process which attracted a large pool of applicants conducted by Pacific Search Partners.

No flagpole funds

A VICTORIAN Government grant for InglewoodBridgewater RSL sub-branch will only be used to regild the archway to the Rheola memorial. Last week’s announcement said the grant would also be for a new flagpole but sub-branch secretary Bill Concol said official advice from the Government showed funding did not cover that cost.

Township plan

torians when they need it most” with confirmation of $50,000 funding for Wedderburn Community House announced during the election campaign.

Mr Walsh said the regional development budget had again been hit, halved from $211.5 million to $106.6 million in this year’s budget. “Since 2020, it has been slashed by 80 per cent,” he said.

“Agriculture funding hasn’t escaped the axe either, down 34 per cent on last year from $687.3 million to $454.8 million.

“Under Labor, Victoria is broke, life is getting harder and regional Victorians are being punished for the Government’s incompetence. Victoria’s regions are being left behind.”

New station wait continues 10-year plan to fix flood-damaged roads

TWO years after funding was announced by the State Government for a new fire station at Serpentine, the volunteer brigade is still based in its old tin shed headquarters.

A spokesperson from the Department of Justice and Community Safety said: “The Victorian Government is continuing work

to deliver a new and improved Serpentine fire station.

“Land acquisition was finalised in late 2022, with planning and design activities due to commence shortly. The Victorian Government will continue to work with the CFA to identify and support its infrastructure priorities and resourcing needs.”

THE Government says it will spend at least $6.6 billion over 10 years fixing flood-damaged and other roads across the state. The Government said: “We know the October 2022 floods had a devastating impact on roads across regional Victoria. That’s why, for the first time, we’re investing an extra $2.8 billion in road maintenance over 10

years to provide long-term certainty, as we substantially repair not just flood-damaged roads, but roads across our state – keeping communities connected and drivers safer.”

It says the Budget invests $677 million in ongoing flood recovery, building on the $1.8 billion promised last year to help communities.

CENTRAL Goldfields Shire has started a review of its township plans for Dunolly and Bealiba. The shire said early feedback had included that community awareness of the plans was low and there was a shortage of volunteers in communities to help deliver work in the plans.

Ward review

VICTORIAN Electoral Commission has confirmed enrolment figures released ahead of a Loddon Shire Council ward boundary review is drawn from residents on the state electoral roll. The VEC will review boundaries after the 10 per cent enrolment variation was exceeded between some wards. New boundaries will be approved for the 2024 elections.

Emergency tucker

VICTORIAN State Emergency Service hosted a barbecue in Wedderburn on Monday for local unit members, CFA volunteers and local police. Review cash risk

THE Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery program was at risk of being axed under an infrastructure funding review, said Mallee MP Anne Webster.

$1.9m school upgrade starts

STUDENTS have quickly adapted to new learning spaces at Tarnagulla Primary School as work starts under a $1.86 million upgrade.

An interruption to electricity supply last week had students off exploring nearby bushland.

Principal Leigh Mellberg said: “We have made quite a few changes to our teaching arrangements this term to accommodate the renovations to the front part of the main building.

“We have waited a long time to get to this point – and we are really looking forward to the new facilities when they are finished, but for a few months there will be some additional noise and activity, and some disruption,” he said.

Mr Mellberg said work crews were currently replacing floorboards in the 19th century building.

The upgrade will also see replacement of electrical wiring, installation of reverse-cycle air-conditioners and the roof replaced.

Mr Mellberg said the council was discussing a further project to install a battery on the school site for renewable energy and to achieve greater efficiency.

The current project will also see construction of a new basketball court.

“We talk a lot at school about resilience: what it means, what it looks like, what it feels like, and so on.

“I would like to believe it is precisely because we aim to build this culture of resilience that we are doing so well with our temporary but additional challenges,” Mr Mellberg said.

Funds for the upgrade were announced in the 2020–21 State Budget.

Farmers want rate change

VICTORIAN Farmers’ Federation wants Loddon Shire to change its rates formula for agricultural land.

The call follows a VFF assessment of proposed rate hikes by rural councils that show Loddon and Swan Hill farmers will be hit with the state’s biggest jumps.

VFF president Emma Germano said the solution for both councils was to implement a dynamic rating strategy.

“A dynamic rating strategy must be adopted that sees the active use of differential rating powers to counteract the valuation asymmetries between different property classes,” she said.

“This system has been successfully employed by other councils such as Ararat, Mansfield and Pyrenees.

“These councils in question are demonstrating that they are unwilling, despite having access and the knowledge to use a rating strategy that is fair on the whole community.”

Rises in the capital improved value of Loddon agricultural land will drive rate increases although the overall jump is the State Government-mandated 3.5 per cent.

Ms Germano said: “The farming community cannot be expected to continue to endure rate increases that result in less funds available to invest in farm businesses, create economic activity and provide local jobs.

“This threatens farmers’ security and the economic benefit that agriculture brings to these two shire councils.”

In the Swan Hill Rural City Council, the average rates paid for dryland farm assessments are set to increase by 20.4 per cent, while residential rates will increase by just two per cent.

“This is the largest farm rate rise across Victoria and is one of the most significant increases seen in recent years.”

In the Loddon Shire Council, where many farms were impacted by the 2022

floods, average farm rates are set to increase eight per cent, while residential rates will be effectively cut by eight per cent.

“This rate hike for farmers whose incomes were devastated by the recent floods is irresponsible and misguided of the council,” she said.

“As this is a particularly busy time for farmers in the region with crops being sown, the VFF is concerned that many local farmers will be oblivious to Council’s proposed rate hike. They therefore have little ability to be consulted.”

“The increase represents significant rates shock for farmers and will hurt business growth and productivity, which are ultimately help creates local jobs and protects farm businesses into the future.”

Community consultation on Loddon Shire’s draft 2023-2024 budget closed last week. Local VFF members said they had lodged a submission.

Morning teas go big in the shire

LOCAL communities are joining Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea raising funds for the Cancer Council this week.

Dingee Bush Nursing Centre was hosting its gathering this morning where people had been encouraged to wear yellow for the fundraiser.

And tomorrow, Boort District School’s student representative council will welcome hostel residents from Boort District Health for its morning tea.

SRC co-ordinator Sharon Pickering said; “We are hoping to make it the biggest morning tea we’ve ever hosted, with special guests from the Boort Hostel invited, as well as parents.”

Events in Loddon this week are part of the 30th running of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.

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

Pot’n’Parma Night

Thursday – Open Midday

Dinner from 5.30pm

Steak’n’Pot Night

Friday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 5.30pm

Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm

With Hot Bar Snacks, Meat Raffle

Saturday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Dinner from 5.30pm

Sunday – Open Midday

All Day Pizza Menu  Close 11.00pm The

Samuel Buckingham, Miranda Watters and Archer Bass return from exploring nearby bushland last week while principal Leigh Mellberg (right) inspects progress on upgrades at Tarnagulla Primary School.

LH PHOTOS

Apprentices and Trainees: The

future

of your business and our towns

A special invitation for you

CVGT Employment – Group Training division is partnering with Wedderburn College to run an informative session for employers and other interested stakeholders in the region to learn more about how you might be able to grow your business whilst supporting local youth build a meaningful career within the local community through an apprenticeship or traineeship. Wedderburn College provides quality and supportive education throughout the school years for the youth of the region.

A strong focus is to support students as they become ready to transition out of the school environment and progress to further education, or through other employment avenues such as apprenticeships and traineeships.

We invite you to come along and meet the Wedderburn College team, and the team from CVGT Employment and learn about the various occupations that can be supported by the Australian Apprenticeship and Traineeship scheme, and how CVGT Employment can partner with your local community in supporting local business and local youth progress to gaining formal qualifications through the Australian Apprenticeship and Traineeship scheme.

Date Wednesday 14th June 2023

Time 6PM start, with finger food provided

Location Wedderburn College Café, Wedderburn College, 15-29 Hospital Street, Wedderburn (enterviaWedderburnCollegeOffice HospitalStreet.

ParkingavailableonHospitalStreet)

RSVP

By Friday 9th June for catering purposes and advise of any dietary requirements to Robyn.vella@education.vic.gov.au or phone 03 5494 3011

 You will be amazed at the variety of occupations that are covered by the Australian Apprenticeship and Traineeship system, there are hundreds of career options available to choose from.

 Find out what incentives are available to employers taking on a new Apprentice or Trainee

 Gain an understanding of how the Group Training model of employment offered by CVGT Employment can provide additional support to your apprentice or trainee throughout their journey ensuring they commence, progress , and complete their qualification successfully

 Learn how CVGT Employment can support employers in making the whole apprentice or traineeship journey simple from start to finish

 An opportunity for you to ask the CVGT Employment team any questions you might have regarding the possibility of taking on an apprentice or trainee now or in the future.

 Lucky door prize provided by CVGT Employment.

We look forward to meeting you!

CVGT Group Training Information Session

Wedderburn College - 14th June 2023

Page 1 of 1

Insurance blanket could lift swap stalls

BLANKET insurance coverage

for stallholders at Wedderburn’s annual swap meet will be considered by organisers.

Historical engine and machinery society president Trevor Bailey said Saturday’s swap meet had again been well attended.

But several stallholders were unable to set up because they did not have insurance cover.

“At the moment, we require stallholders to have their own cover. For people perhaps only attending one or two events a year, that could still cost them $150,” he said.

“The high cost appears to keep some stallholders away so we will investigate a blanket insurance cover for next year ... where stallholders pay a special fee if they require cover or increase the site fee that is currently quite low.”

Stallholders were set up at Engine Park well before gates opened at 8am on Saturday for the swap meet.

Among them was a regular, Charlton’s Rod Heritage who had assistance from grandson Rhys Ahan selling old car wheels and other discarded automotive parts.

Korong Vale’s Jenny Bligh had her stock of men’s shed signs on sale for the crowd while Craig Mackley and Barry Ryan trav-

elled from the Wimmera selling old chainsaws.

Mr Bailey said the swap meet had more than 80 stallholders this year, down slightly from 2022 when a record number jumped at the chance to be back on the swap circuit for the first time in two years.

He said the meet was also a great fundraiser for the society with members cooking up dozens of pancakes during the morning.

And with temperatures on the chilly side, vendors and patrons spent some time warming themselves around the large open fire.

The society was recognised with Loddon Shire’s Australia Day award for event of the year after hosting the national tractor trek last October, drawing enthusiasts from across Australia.

Stay close, go further. VISIT THE MURRAY

Deborah Bogenhuber

Food Next Door

Mildura, The Murray

The spirit of the Murray River is in the food we eat. At Food Next Door, we match migrant farmers to land and create ‘Out of the Box’ fresh produce boxes that supply our local cafes, restaurants and the community.It’s a beautiful cycle that brings everyone together and visitors to Mildura can enjoy our culture of creativity and inclusivity.

COVID spike in fortnight

COVID-19 cases have surged in Loddon communities in the past fortnight.

There were 18 new cases in the Loddon last week and 12 the previous week.

The spike has seen local health officials urge residents to have their influenza and COVID booster shots.

More than 4.3 million Victorians are eligible for a 2023 booster dose.

Boort District Health CEO Donna Doyle said if people had any symptoms they should do a rapid antigen test.

Free RAT kits have been distributed by Loddon Shire through local post offices.

There were 9316 COVID-19 cases reported in Victoria last week, an increase of 24 per cent on the previous week.

Camp off limits

CAMP facilities at Newbridge Recreation Reserve will not be re-opened in time for the King’s Birthday weekend next month. This week’s announcement by the reserve committee comes as members continue repairs and rebuilding following last October’s floods.

Campers have been pitching tents and vans either side of the bridge while the camp ground remains closed.

Cheryl Bailey and Susan Keller whip up pancakes. LH PHOTO

Rhys Ahen, Rod Heritage and their dog Monty wheel in stall stock. LH PHOTO

Library agreement on borrowed time amid likely review

LIBRARY services across central Victoria could be reviewed by councils during a two-year interim funding agreement.

Loddon Shire councillors on Tuesday endorsed a recommendation to sign the new 12-month agreement with another one-year option.

Chief executive officer Lincoln Fitzgerald told councillors: “The service and funding agreement currently in place, expires on June 30, 2023 and a new agreement is proposed that simply provides for the existing conditions of the service and funding arrangements to be maintained for a 12-month period with an option to roll this over for a further 12 months, pending any decisions by member councils regarding a new library service delivery model.

“This approach is proposed to provide flexibility for council members undertaking any service review or due diligence in considering the requirements of the Local Government Act 2020, to wind up regional library corporations by 2030 and provide a new way of delivering library

services by either directly providing them through an “in-house” council service, or through a beneficial enterprise.

“It may be that no decision on a new service delivery approach is reached by June 30, 2025, which would result in a new agreement for a further time period, given councils have until 2030 to finalise a new approach to services,” Mr Fitzgerald told councillors.

Loddon Shire is part of Goldfield Library Corporation that has libraries and agencies at Boort, Dingee, Inglewood, Pyramid Hill, Tarnagulla and Wedderburn.

The corporation was formed in 1996 and also includes City of Greater Bendigo, Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander Shire Councils.

Loddon’s 2022-2023 budget had an allocation for library services of $221,288.

Tuesday’s council meeting, chaired by Cr Wendy Murphy in the absence of Mayor Dan Straub who was in Canberra on council business, did not discuss the recommendation.

Road maintenance program back on track soon: Phillips

LODDON Shire expects to have its regular road maintenance program back on track next month.

Operations director Steven Phillips told councillors on Tuesday the program, suspended since the October flood emergency, would be resumed by the end of June.

The exceptional circumstances clause of the program was enacted within days of the October 14 floods.

Mr Phillips said background to that decision was: “The suspension of the road maintenance program is to say that council cannot maintain its road network to its usual standard.

“The community can expect that it will take longer than it normally would for

an issue to be fixed on our road network. Routine maintenance inspections were put on hold for three months and have now resumed so staff could assist in the gathering of information for a claim to restore flood damage under the disaster recovery funding arrangements.

“The extent of the impact on council’s ability to return to normal levels of road maintenance is still being assessed.

“In the meantime, council will maintain the network as safe as reasonably possible given the circumstances,” he said.

Mr Phillips said staff had repaired more than 96 per cent of 1200 defects detected from inspections during the March quarter.

Enthusiasm sparks return of Inglewood Alive! festival

INGLEWOOD Alive! will return for the first time in four years.

The town’s development and tourism committee has announced it will take on organisation of the November event to showcase Inglewood’s historic streetscape and expect to attract thousands of visitors.

Inglewood Alive! was last held in 2019 before COVID scuttled plans for the 2020 and 2021 events and several key organisers left the district.

Suzi Birthisel, who headed up the last community committee to put together Inglewood Alive!, said there was excitement that the event would return under the development and tourism committee’s banner.

“Many of the volunteers who were part of Inglewood Alive! between 2013 and 2019 are still involved in the community through the football club and fire brigade and other organisation,” she said. “Through the COVID years, the commitment did not change but the areas of involvement did.”

“We’re all rapt that Inglewood Alive will be back and continue through IDTC with some of the community committee vol-

Inglewood Alive! in 2019

unteers still part of the new team.” IDTC secretary Pauline Wellman said her committee was excited to start planning the festival’s revival.

“It may not look exactly the same as previous festivals but it will build over time,” Mrs Wellman said.

“Inglewood Alive Festival will once more aim to bring together community groups from Inglewood and surrounding districts to promote our town to the wider region and beyond.”

Students from Boort District P-12 School are currently involved in Youth Take Over Loddon at Boort District Health to explore the diverse range of careers in the Health Sector.

e visiting students have taken a deep dive into Corporate/Administration roles, Catering/Food Services, and Aged Care and explored career opportunities in Maintenance, Allied Health and Domestic Services.

Youth Take Over is an initiative of North Central LLEN and we are pleased to promote local career pathway opportunities for local young people and build our amazing local sta at Boort District Health for the future.

COMMUNITY GARDEN CONSULTATION

e Community Garden consultation gave us lots of new ideas to think about.

e dra plan is evolving and the space is shaping up to be an incredible and vibrant place people from our community of all ages can enjoy.

We feel especially privileged to have received two motorised wheelchairs and a double gopher, purchased by our amazing ladies auxiliary, to support our aged care residents to get to the space and enjoy all it has to o er.

the QR code to share your ideas and feedback on our community garden project

With the colder weather upon us, BDH reminds our community to consider booking into the medical clinic for your annual in uenza vaccine and if you haven’t already had your COVID-19 booster shot, we strongly encourage that too. ere has been a surge in COVID-19 cases locally so if you have any signs or symptoms, such as sore throat, runny nose, temperature, do a RAT test. e hospital have RAT tests available free at the entrance to the hospital. Our priority is our vulnerable residents, patients and clients. All our sta RAT test every 72 hours and continue to isolate for 7 days if they test positive.

Our Urgent Care Centre is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and there is always a Registered Nurse on duty who can assess you and o er advice if you are unwell or injured.

Open all hours

PYRAMID Hill Bakery Cafe is a popular spot with locals and visitors for coffee, cake and much more.

Mick and Dee Sim welcome customers from breakfast time through to dinner and offer dining indoor and outdoor options at their Kelly Street bakery and cafe

A range of cakes and slices are always available to enjoy with coffee.

Mick and Dee say their custard tarts are great to try ... washed down with a Cappuccino or Latte.

Or perhaps there’s an apple slice served warm or cold, teamed with whipped cream or thick custard (or for the real sweet tooths, both!)

And you can’t go past the wonderful Jelly Slice. Mick and Dee say the slice is an ideal

way to cool the palate and have you ready to get on with the day!

For those looking for more, Mick’s famous pies and pasties are always a favourite with customers too.

Mick and Dee also offer a regular Friday night Asian cuisine offering.

Plus there’s fish and chips and pizzas at the bakery cafe.

Resilient stories shine at fun tea

SMILES and laughter came with inspirational stories of resilience at a high tea in Wedderburn on Sunday.

Black Wallaby Wines’ Jayne Lawson and former Loddon Shire councillor Colleen Condliffe shared their stories of life and experiencing floods in the region over the past decade.

Jayne told more than 30 people at the Wedderburn Community House’s Mad Hatter themed high tea that community helped bond after disaster.

“Interestingly, two collective things seem to happen within a community after a tragedy,” she said. “An effort to bond with each other and a drive to find something positive from what’s happened.

“Participation within community groups can help restore a sense of control, well-being and self-confidence.

“Some members take comfort from giving support as well as receiving it.

“Communities are generally very resilient. Most of us are able to adapt, adjust and move on after a period of short distress.

“We need to hear words of how we are feeling and assure us that things will be okay and the idea that something good will always come out of something bad.

“We need strong leaders, during major tragedies and that role usually falls to politicians, but more often than not within small rural communities, people will come together to support and help each other because of our human need to find a positive within a terrible situa-

tion. And if good leaders within communities and our country can put proactive and positive steps in place, communities will find themselves able to get the strength to move forward.”

Jayne said it was often the women in rural communities that were the strongest, the most caring and empathetic and the most resilient warriors.

Both Jayne and Colleen spoke of community bonds and support that had been strengthened across the region since last October’s flood emergency.

They praised the work of Blazeaid in helping farmers rebuild fences within weeks, a task that would otherwise have taken months.

Colleen said one of the first group of volunteers to help in the recovery was Korong Vale Tennis Club.

The high tea was interspersed with games and competitions. Sharon Drury from Moonlight won the best hat prize while Lynne Hopgood took out the costume award for her creation of Alice.

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

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

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

Coralie Lockhart, Dede Williams and Kylie Turnbull prepare afternoon tea.

LH PHOTOS

Amber King

Kara Fox

Marg van Veen

Jayne Lawson, Sharon Drury and Colleen Condliffe

HARVESTING is in full swing at Cobram Estate’s Boort olive groves where local fruit and yields from across the Loddon are being delivered to the company’s

Graziers assess state of pastures

A PRACTICAL workshop next month will help graziers assess the state of pastures to decide what action to take to optimise pasture growth, quality and sustainability.

Boort’s Best Wool Best Lamb group is hosting the workshop at Barraport.

Ag Consulting’s Lisa Warne will speak on managing ewe and feed requirements for pregnancy management and beyond while Erica Schelfhorst (Agriculture Victoria) would explain tools available to plan livestock feeding requirements.

The work will also discuss:

z Objectively assess the current state of pastures

using Meat and Livestock Australia tools and identifying constraints to pasture growth, feed quality and utilisation;

z Using grazing management to improve productivity and persistence of pastures and reduce weeds;

z Assessing pasture performance using tools and apps to record livestock movements; and

z Livestock feeding tools.

Erica said the practical workshops would help farmers understand how to maximise feed for sheep. She said the session would also be of interest to cattle producers.

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

A more positive market this week with all categories trending upwards.

SHEEP

A SLIGHT drop in numbers to 8500 lambs and 3650 sheep at Bendigo this week.

Competition improved with four buyers who were absent last week returning.

The lamb market was dearer, although there was hot and dull patches of selling depending greatly on if one export buyer could operate fully.

Good processing lambs over 24kg cwt averaged $8 to $20 dearer.

However light lambs, particularly secondary types, were often cheaper. Merino lambs lacking weight and fat cover also received weak support.

The highlight of the sale was a $30 to $40/head price spike for sheep, due mainly to one southern exporter who was short of kill numbers today and was loading out sheep as the sale progressed.

Export lambs over 30kg cwt sold from $215 to a top of $247 for around 36kg cwt. Heavy crossbred lambs, 26-30kg, $173 to $225 and heavy trades $163 to $179.

These processing lambs showed a spread of 630c to 750c/kg cwt, with the main weight and grade categories improving to average between 680c to 720c/kg.

Best medium trade lambs $140 to $178, again with a big cwt price spread to trend around 650c. Light processing and MK lambs from $70 to $130. Sheep

prices surged $30 to $40, some of the best gains evident for light mutton.

It came as a couple of processors pushed for numbers, while the dearer rates kept other orders quiet. All the main categories of sheep averaged over 400c/kg cwt.

Heaviest crossbred ewes $134 to $177 and Merino ewes to $134. Lot of sheep from $70 to $120/ head.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

RE & SL Pedersen Kamarooka (62) $247, WH Bacon Echuca West (45) $235, Bridgewater Park Farming Bridgewater (204) $232, F & M Schimdt Pyramid Hill (50) $229, Peter Webb Bridgewater (66) $228, R & B Pascoe Drummartin (60) $215, R & K Sloan Kurting (64) $213, Moorilim Past Co Moorilim (98) $210, C & M Stone Raywood (49) $207, B & E Wilson Kurting (39) $197, Hopeavon P/L Kurting (38) $197, Mirnee P/Ship Hunter (52) $194, D & H McKinley Leichardt (35) $189, DA & LM Broad Pyramid Hill (45) $169, T & K Dobson Echuca (21) $165.

MERINO WETHERS

D & R Hannigan Barrakee (74) $155. MERINO EWES

G Nesbit Glenalbyn (44) $108, Heffernan Livestock Cathkin (35) $91.

GRAIN

Boort Grain Co-op prices

Tuesday.

Wheat – H1 $388 FIS. H2 $342 FIS. APW1 $330 FIS. ASW $328 FIS. AGP1 $323 FIS. SFW1 $323 FIS. FED1 $300 FIS. Barley - PL1 $323 FIS. SP1 $323 FIS. Bar1 $295 FIS. Bar2 $277 FIS. Bar3 $257 FIS JUNE. Bar4 237 FIS JUNE.

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

new $25 million processing mill. LH PHOTO

Mentors match up for future

STUDENTS in Year 9 and 10 at Pyramid Hill College have met their MATES mentors for 2023 to learn more about career paths and life experiences.

A panel of mentors - Marie Noelker, Nathan McGann, Chris Cain and Ange Eadsanswered questions prepared by students about their interests, their first jobs, how they chose their career path and advice to their younger selves.

Career paths varied from teaching, nursing, graphic design and science. Students heard comments like, ‘Make the most of opportunities

North Central LLEN projects and path

ways officer Barb Bear said: “Mentors in the MATES program are matched with a young person in Year 9 and arrange to meet in their own time, at least once a month, until students move on to another school at the end of Year 10.

“Students this year have been pro-active in choosing their own mentors and arranging times to meet,” she said.

“We are very fortunate to have a range of caring and committed people in our local community, prepared to give up their time to be part of the MATES mentoring program.

“By having a positive role model and building mutual respect, mentoring allows young

Thanks to local volunteers

As part of Council’s ‘Nominate a Volunteer Campaign’ for National Volunteers Week, three lucky nominees were randomly drawn and will receive a local producer hamper from the Loddon Shed. The three lucky nominees were:

 Darryl Arnott, nominated by a member of the public for his dedication in volunteering at Korong Hospital Investment Group.

 Suzi Birthisel, nominated by a member of the public for her dedication in volunteering at Inglewood Football, Netball Club and St Mary’s Primary School.

 Helen O’Donoghue, nominated by a member of the public for her dedication in volunteering with East

Survey shows thirst for info

BETTER information on boat ramps at Goulburn Murray Water reservoirs is wanted by users.

A survey of users at the reservoirs, that include Laanecoorie, also found 18 per cent of the 692 respondents to GMW’s land and water recreation check wanted more information water levels and fire risks.

GMW water Storage services general manager Martina Cusack said that while the main purpose of GMW’s storage reservoirs was to capture, store and release water to customers, people also enjoyed them for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming and camping.

“The feedback we received is really valuable, not only to us, but to the other agencies we work with to fund and deliver projects improving our recreation areas,” she said.

people to gain confidence in themselves and make a lasting connection with a trusted friend, guide, supporter, motivator, advisor, confidant and resource.

“These are important benefits for students at this stage of their education on the verge of exploring career options, developing their strengths, skills and setting goals and aspirations for the future. The MATES mentoring program at Pyramid Hill is alive and strong.”

Mentors and students joined in games such as Two Truths and a Lie introduced by Jed Stewart, Kahoots Trivia introduced by Eloise Walters and Dempsey Lee and Group UNO introduced by Shamica Castro.

Care takes pause

THE out of school care program at Wedderburn College is on hold after co-ordinator Reana Butterworth was farewelled.

Reana and family have left the district.

The school is making arrangements to re-open the popular program.

Loddon Foodshare, as well as her local Lions Club.

Volunteers are the backbone in our community. They are the ones who give their time and energy to make our Shire a better place. Council continues to look at ways to acknowledge and celebrate volunteers.

If you would like to join an enthusiastic group of volunteers, please register your interest via www.loddon.vic.gov.

au/Our-Council/Working-withus/Volunteering-with-LoddonShire-Council

Dr Rob Gordon is a psychologist who is an expert in supporting people who have been impacted by oods, bush res and other natural disasters or traumatic events. In a special video lmed in Boort in March he discusses how di erent rural communities and individual farmers respond to the immediate and ongoing stress and high workload caused by widespread ooding.

You can access the video at https://farmerhealth.org.au/buildingfarmspirit

Toby Whinfield (mentor) with students Jed Stewart, James Hercott, Jack Gould, Shamica Castro and fellow mentor Drew Chislett.

Little comes when little promised

HOPES can never be too high when little is put on the table during the cut and thrust of election campaigns.

This week’s Victorian Budget was brought down against a backdrop of burgeoning state debt, high interest repayments and the political imperative to rein in spending.

Little if anything visionary, futurebuilding, was forthcoming last year for Loddon communities when candidates were out on the hustings chasing votes.

The biggest ticket items were an extra $100,000 for Wedderburn’s Donaldson Park from a harness racing pot of cash, $50,000 for that town’s community house to keep doing what it does running programs to give skills and engagement of residents and, of course, the “commitment” that a State Government child care centre would be somewhere in the shire from 2026.

KILLER’S KOMMENTARY

That was from the Government of Premier Andrews, comfortably re-elected and for the first time in almost a decade, seeing a Labor MP given the tick to represent southern Loddon communities.

But while the specific visionary projects for the future of Loddon communities were missing - better road infrastructure to handle greater use by residents and transient drivers of trucks and cars, tackling the rapidly-arriving challenges of residential development and growth already happening organically and making sure our local towns are ready to accommodate the people looking to escape spilling at the seams Bendigo - we’re not expecting too much when suggesting the Government looks at, and invests in, these demands on

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

AEMO, Government must address wellbeing

Sir, I recently listened to Simon Roger’s interview on ABC Radio. He was interviewing a Clunes farmer whose equity had been devalued by $1.5 million after being told that AUSNET would be installing two power transmission towers on his property.

In a frighteningly similar manner to AEMO’s proposed Option 5, this new transmission line had simply ‘arrived’ in his local area.

The farmer put in a complaint to the Energy and Water Ombudsman of Victoria but was told it was outside their jurisdiction.

AUSNET responded to EWOV suggesting they would have a discussion with the farmer, but stressed they held a ‘firm position’. This statement was followed by six phone numbers - all relating to suicide prevention or self-help.

What a disgrace. Sadly, it seems AEMO is heading down this exact same path again.

Nicola Falcon, Victorian Group Planning Manager for AEMO, stated at the Wedderburn Forum on May 5, that AEMO had been transparent, they had held dropin sessions and community consultation.

What was glaringly absent, was any mention for the consideration (let alone concern) of the emotional impact of Option 5.

As a health care worker, Stacey Keller was quoted in the Loddon Herald article Fuming Farmers Pop up Banners (May 18) ‘there is heightened worry and concern … farmers who are stereotypically known to show no emotion, are (now) showing emotion loud and clear, and it’s concerning. The utter negligence you at AEMO have shown towards the mental health of affected communities is horrendous. We are people.’

She continues by highlighting that ‘mental ill health and suicide rates among

services that will inevitably arise within a handful years. And to set aside precious money now - outside election campaigns - to avoid costlier required contributions down the track.

Added to that, the need for better flow of flood recovery funds from the Government to have the Loddon back with an economic engine revving strongly and our part of the state could have received a bit more focus in this week’s Budget.

Country communities are too often overlooked when governments carve up the financial pie.

Because it has been happening, increasingly, for more than a century, does not make it right. Time is closer when local projects must get more than crumbs.

1.The Titanic set off on its maiden voyage from which English city?

2. To the nearest thousand, roughly how many times do humans breathe in and out each day?

3. What is the chemical symbol for silver?

4. Who invented cat’s eyes to improve road safety in 1934?

5. What is the doll, Barbie’s, full name?

6. True or false – Male seahorses carry and birth babies while the females prepare more eggs.

7. 452 degrees C is the average surface temperature on which planet?

8. Australia’s oldest church is located in which state or territory?

9. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an example of what type of bridge?

10. A marmoset is what animal?

11. How many yards are a furlong?

12. Aircraft registered in Australia have registration codes beginning with which two letters?

13. Chinese gooseberry is another name for which fruit?

14. Cataracts affect which part of the body?

15. BP (in relation to petrol stations) stands for what?

16. What is the capital city of Canada?

17. Mascarpone is what type of foodstuff?

18. A bicycle designed for two people to ride is called a what?

19. Spat is the name given for baby what?

20. Levi Strauss invented what clothing?

ANSWERS

rural farming communities is significantly higher than the general population and non-farming rural males.’

What an insult and disgrace that the best our government and its energy providers can do is hand out suicide-prevention and self-help phone numbers as a solution.

Perhaps the Andrews Labor Government and Minister D’Ambrosio should hold AEMO accountable for not addressing the wellbeing concerns of their constituents. Neglecting to consider such a critical element on a project of this scale will sadly only add to the tragic statistics to which Ms Keller referred.

AEMO have already shown they don’t care, but it is the role of our elected representatives to hold them to account.

I’m calling on Minister D’Ambrosio and Premier Andrews to hold AEMO accountable for the sham that they call ‘consultation’. GlendaWatts Charlton

Volunteers are our lifeblood

Sir, Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community.

From our CFA and SES members to our hall committees, neighbourhood houses, Landcare groups, Lions and Rotary clubs, RSLs, and sports clubs.

They give thousands of hours of their time to keep our rural and regional communities ticking.

After National Volunteer Week - I say thank you. Thank you for all that you do.

You make a difference to the lives of so many. And without you, we’d be a lesser place.

MarthaHaylett MemberforRipon

Spanish inquisition

By CHRIS EARL

A YOUNG Anne-Marie Davis grew up convinced she had Spanish blood.

Afterall, that’s the story Alma McKindley constantly told an inquisitive child spending time with her grandmother.

The family story ignited a dream that one day, Anne-Marie would open a Spanish restaurant.

And for eight years Anne-Marie and husband Gary made that dream a reality with their tapas bar in Bendigo.

Turns out, though, grandma Alma was stretching the truth just a little. The Campbells Forest couple researched the family tree and discovered “that maybe, just, I had two per cent of northern Spanish or French ancestry”.

“It’s very unlikely I had a Spanish nanna after all but I did have a one great-great-great-grandma Brown - doesn’t everyone? - who was born and raised at Hill View in Woodstock West,” said AnneMarie.

The genetic dismissal of nanna Alma’s story - the Spanish gene story was linked to Anne-Marie’s brown eyes and curly hair - far from diminished Anne-Marie and Gary’s love of cooking up Spanish cuisine.

From waving goodbye to the Bendigo hairdressing salon they converted into a restaurant, Anne-Marie and Gary are now literally on the road whipping up treats inspired by the country famous for bullfights, the flamenco and siestas.

They’ve converted a food caravan into a mobile Spanish kitchen serving tapas, paella and the sweet treat churros, a bit like thin donuts, sometimes knotted or long and thick and known as porras or jeringos in some parts of their native land. Churros, deep-fried, are normally eaten for breakfast after being dipped (or smothered) in creamy, rich chocolate sauces.

“Since opening up our caravan, a lot of the old restaurant customers have followed us around as we pop up at functions,” said Anne-Marie.

“They love our unique Spanish cuisine and we’re seeing more people in our diverse communities across Loddon and central

Victoria embrace that diversity through food.”

The couples share cooking duties when hitting the road, taking a break from their Campbells Forest farm where pigs, lambs and sheep roam and chickens kept up a good daily supply of eggs before a visit from less than friendly foxes.

“At one stage we were virtually living from paddock to plate ... there’s a good orchard on the property and we do like to live sustainably,” she said.

Establishing a new business has seen Anne-Marie draw on skills gained in earlier career moves.

Study for a master’s in business administration has been useful in managing supply and logistics, marketing and communications.

And the early enjoyment of chur ros and paella around the district has Anne-Marie what she says are receptive discussions on the little Spanish food van popping up in Loddon towns this summer.

Earlier this month it was back to another career setting for the former nurse- a hospital - pop ping up with thank you churros for International Nurses’ Day at Inglewood and District Health Services.

The love of cooking, though goes back to the days of Nanna Alma “stretching the ancestral truth”.

“I have always loved cooking and to open a restaurant or now a pop-up van is making dreams happen ... even if I don’t have any Spanish blood” she said

At one stage we were virtually living from paddock to plate ... there’s a good orchard on the property and we do like to live sustainably

A GRANDMOTHER’S STRETCHING OF THE TRUTH STARTS CUISINE LOVE AFFAIR

LH

Central brick-veneer home ready to move straight in

A 1980s brick veneer home presents an ideal opportunity to buy, live or invest in central Inglewood.

Agent James Nevins says the home at 23 Houston Street is in a great location, just metres from the IGA supermarket and other businesses in Brooke Street.

“This is the ideal family home offering quality fixtures and fittings so close to the main street, the bowling green and the town hall hub,” he said.

“It’s ready for a family to make their own in Inglewood or for the astute investor to add to their portfolio in a town that is increasingly popular with people seeking a great relaxed lifestyle in a country town.”

The house has three spacious bedrooms with the master bedroom having a deep walk in robe and ensuite. Other bedrooms have built-in robes.

The kitchen/dining area flows easily together with plenty of timber cupboards and benchtop space, all-electric cooking, Westinghouse wall oven and separate hotplates, Dishlex dishwasher and large breakfast bar.

A feature of the separate lounge room is a small reading nook and second small dining area.

The large bathroom includes separate shower, bath and vanity and there is a big laundry with separate toilet. Heating and cooling is from the reverse cycle, ducted units.

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

23 Houston Street

Inglewood

Three bedrooms

Ensuite and bathroom

Shedding

OPEN FOR INSPECTION

This Saturday midday-12.45pm

Agent: James Nevins 0407 302 900

Outside, the home is pristine in its presentation with a lovely patio on the east side and a small fernery on the west side coupled with a large double carport with enclosed fencing in the backyard, this home is very pet friendly.

A 6m x 7.5m Colorbond shed in the rear yard, compliments the home with full 240V power and cement floor, allowing for the multi-use of extra car space or small workshop.

With the established garden beds for vegies to grow, as well as the growing small orchard, there is nothing to do except move in and enjoy your reward, said James.

Business-savvy eyes looking at river town post office

BRIDGEWATER’S post office is attracting the interest of potential business buyers after being placed on the market.

Co-owner and licensee Shannon Brown said: “We have received quite a few enquiries about the post office business since going on the market as potential buyers look to our region to own their own business.

“The post office has shown it is profitable and successful since a group of us, 11 locals, bought the business back in December 2019.

“We have been able to employ five parttime staff and purchase a brand new vehicle for the mail run.”

“Staff are employed a total of 60 hours a week - the equivalent of 1.5 people.

“And there’s no early starts. The mail sort completed within two hours, we start at 7am finish at 5pm, but hours are flex-

ible and will be up to the next owner of this important business in the town.”

Shannon said the current consortium owners were more interested in finding the right people to continue running the post office than achieving a high sale price.

“Our great little business would suit a couple looking to wind down but still keep occupied and maintain a comfortable income,” she said.

And while currently trading Monday to Friday, Shannon said Bridgewater post office had scope for expansion of hours and retail sales.

The post office has a current lease on the historic Main Street building through to 2028.

“It was always our intention to put the post office back on the market once we had an idea of its viability,” she said.

MORRISON (Fithall) Lesley June

9/2/1978 - 25/5/2021

Maldon Bicycles

are offering the residents of Inglewood and surrounding area a free pick up/ drop off service for bicycle repairs. Basic services $65.00. Also buying and selling vintage bicycles

Your loving family and friends

PUBLIC NOTICES

THE TARNAGULLA CEMETERY TRUST

Our workshop is located at 4/8 High Street Maldon.

Phone or text Glen 0499 876 594

Email ballingerglen@y7mail.com

Celebrating National Volunteer Week 2023

The theme for this years National Volunteer Week was ‘The Change Makers’ celebrating volunteer’s power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all of the Australian community.

To show appreciation for the vital support that Loddon Shire Council Volunteers provide to the Loddon community, a luncheon was held at the Serpentine Recreation Reserve on Tuesday 16 May.

Mayor Straub opened the luncheon welcoming all volunteers and expressing Council’s appreciation for the work they do. Following lunch, Mayor Straub presented certi cates of appreciation to Council’s Community Asset Committee and Loddon Visitor Information Centre volunteers.

In addition, certi cates of appreciation were presented to the dedicated Meals on Wheels volunteers, who having delivered

meals to the Pyramid Hill community for many years, supported these residents to remain living independently in their homes. 25 Volunteers mingled and enjoyed some well-deserved down time. Helen Can eld, Geo Hampson and Paul Haw were the lucky door prize winners on the day. Council would like to thank the community members who participated in the ‘Nominate a Volunteer Campaign’. Council received many nominations of worthy volunteers across the shire The nominees randomly drawn to receive a gift of local produce from the Loddon Shed were Helen O’ Donoghue, Suzi Birthisel and Darryl Arnott.

Council look forward to celebrating National Volunteer Week again in 2024.

The Tarnagulla Cemetery Trust is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified members of the community who would be interested in becoming honorary trust members. Women and those from a diverse background are actively encouraged to seek appointment. Cemetery trust members are appointed by the Governor in Council for a term of up to five years on the recommendation of the Minister for Health. Cemetery trusts are responsible for the proper and efficient management of the public cemeteries under their control, including planning for future cemeteries services and the preservation of local history. Being appointed to a cemetery trust provides successful applicants with a unique opportunity to develop their competencies as a board member. The Department of Health provides free governance training to all trust members. Current trust members whose terms of appointment are due to expire may apply for reappointment as part of a competitive selection process.

More information about the role of cemetery trust members is available at: https://www. health.vic.gov.au/cemeteries-and-crematoria/ class-b-cemetery-trust-appointments

To register your interest please contact The Tarnagulla Cemetery Trust as follows within two weeks of the date of this advertisement: The Tarnagulla Cemetery Trust contact details: 0427 387 397

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

Careers at Loddon Shire

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

Project Engineer – ref.J/217

 Full-time, permanent position

 Based at our Wedderburn o ce with exible work location options available

 Band 6 - $85,590.96 - $92,720.68 per annum plus employer superannuation

Applications for the position above will close on Monday 29 May 2023 at 5pm.

Early Childhood Educator – ref.J/221

 Part-time, 21.75 hours per week, xedterm until 15 July 2024

 Based at our Boort service

 Salary in line with the Early Education Employees Agreement 2020

Kindergarten Coordinator – ref. J/209

 Part-time, permanent position working 32 hours per week

 Based at our Wedderburn o ce with exible work location options available

 Band 7 - $95,329.52 - $105,912.56 per annum pro rata plus employer superannuation

Applications for the positions above will close on Monday 5 June 2023 at 5pm.

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

CLASSIFIEDS CONNECT

Remembering you is easy we do it every day

Missing you is the heartache that never goes away.

Find a safer car in your budget at

Some cars are safer than others because they include Active Safety Features. And they needn’t cost you any more. So ask if the car you’re buying has features such as Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Auto Emergency Braking (AEB), Driver Attention Detection and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). To compare vehicles and find the safest car to buy in your budget, visit howsafeisyourcar.com.au

LODDON residents with a business idea can be part of this year’s Startup Central Victoria free 13-week pre-accelerator program starting in July.

Building on the success of previous programs, a 90-minute masterclass will be led each week by an expert in the region with an emphasis on global markets and technology but relevant to every sector and type of business.

Presenters will provide outline business models including on the entrepreneur mindset; vision, culture and risk; market gap analysis and financial structure.

The evening masterclasses will be held in the Bendigo CBD and also provided live on zoom to enable access for those in the wider region including the Campaspe, Loddon, Central Goldfields, Mount Alexander and Macedon Ranges. Previous participants agree that it is

of great value. “The program gave me the opportunity to be committed to my business and the courage to take it forward,” said Marita Allen from Bendigo.

“The experts that we had in the workshops and the panel discussions were really valuable,” said Sharlene Crage from Dingee. Founders and their teams are encouraged to register an Expression of Interest to participate in the program. Those successful will also be allocated a mentor.

Program Coordinator, Kerry Anderson, advises that places are limited.

“We are looking for applicants aged 18 years or older from across the region that demonstrate passion for their startup idea and commitment to the program,” Kerry said ahead of applications closing next month.

LODDON HERALD BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES

THE RAILWAY HOTEL

Ball a clear winner on course with lots of roll

A GREAT turn out of 14 contested the stableford event at Boort last Saturday with plenty of roll on the course making scoring a bit easier.

Continuing with his good form since returning to work on the olive harvest, Graeme Ball was a clear winner on 40 points, with Kevin Linehan, Stuart Tweddle and Hamish Lanyon all tieing for second a further three shots behind.

Nathan Gooding also scored well to pick up the last ball in the comp.

Come and join us during our winter trading times. We will keep you warm with a range of specials and classic pub meals.

MONDAY - OPEN 4.00PM NO DINNER

TUESDAY - OPEN 4.00PM

DINNER FROM 6.00PM PARMA NIGHT

EXTENDED PARMA MENU

WEDNESDAY - OPEN 4.00PM

DINNER FROM 6.00PM

FULL MENU AVAILABLE

THURSDAY - OPEN 4.00PM

DINNER FROM 6.00PM

STEAK’N’POT NIGHT

FRIDAY - OPEN MIDDAY LUNCH FROM 12.00

LUNCHTIME SENIORS DAY

DINNER FROM 5.30PM

MEAT TRAY RAFFLE

FULL MENU AVAILABLE

SATURDAY - OPEN 4.00PM

DINNER FROM 5.30PM

SUNDAY - OPEN 4.00PM NO DINNER

A fine pub with 100 years of trading – supplying you with friendly service, cold beer, spirits & wine, great meals, restaurant, accommodation & bottle shop.

84 Godfrey Street, BOORT 03 5400 9650

railwayhotelboort

In the nearest the pins, Lorraine Linehan’s magnificent shot from Wednesday took out the 9th while Stuart claimed the second shot on the 8th and Scott Rollin-

son happily picked up the drinks for his effort on the 15th.

The 1st proved to be quite eventful with Peter Barraclough knocking his tee shot on to claim a ball, but it was the experienced Kevin Linehan who chipped in for his birdie to not only pick up a ball as well, but also take the prize for being the closest after two shots.

This week will see a return to a stroke event, with a reminder that the club championships will kick off the week after.

WEDDERBURN

Wedderburn saw 16 players take to the fairways on Saturday.

New partnership takes out Oregon trail rally

RHIANON Gelsomino has partnered with 16-year-old Lia Block to take out the Oregon Trail Rally at the weekend.

The Wedderburn-born sports legend said: “Lia and I went to the event with the goal of taking away 22 championship points and three powerstage championship points in 2wd class (maximum points in class).

“We knew the Oregon was one that would suit the Subaru BRZ!

“After some Stage 1 doughnuts Friday night and overheating issues on Saturday’s stages, we sat third 2WD and 11th overall American Rally Association.

“Lia and I had a very clear fo-

cus and goal for Sunday, to claw back the time we had lost the previous two days.

“With 17 seconds to make up to take back the 2WD lead, we come out firing on Sunday, taking the 2WD lead after the first two stages.”

Rhianon said from that point, the partnership built its lead and set some incredible stage times. “In stages 15 and 16, we were second fastest overall, with only Subaru Motorsports USA - Brandon Semenuk beating us and stages 17 and 18 we were third fastest overall.”

Rhianon and Lia finished the 2WD event first and fourth overall.

The winner was Keith Bird on 38 points on a countback from wife Glenda.

Nearest the pin on the 13th was Owen Bailey while Macca Smith with a eagle on the 10th cleaned out the eagles nest.

Last Friday’s chook run had nine competitors, winner was Robbie Tonkin with a great 26 off the stick

INGLEWOOD

Carol Canfield with 64-25-39 won last week’s ladies competition with runner up Helen Ward 55-12-43. Count putts winner was also Carol with 12.

Women play on Wednesdays and new players are welcome to be part of weekly events.

Alister McDougal takes to the fairways at Boort in the club’s recent Saturday competition. AP PHOTO

Rhianon Gelsomino and Lia Block

Dogs take defeat

PYRAMID Hill had its first A Grade loss of the season when up against a rebounding Maiden Gully on Saturday.

The Bulldogs had been on a roll but could not stem the strong attack and goal-shooting ability of the reigning Loddon Valley premiers.

.A stirring third quarter saw Mitiamo shrug off a determined Calivil who had kept pace with the Superoos throughout the first half.

The Superoos outscored their opponents 15-7 in the defining third term and went on to win by 14 goals.

Bridgewater hit its straps after the first term to get the edge of Bears Lagoon Serpentine in the second quarter before the two went goal for goal throughout the second half.

Eventual honours went to the Mean machine by just three goals.

In the other game, Newbridge was too polished for Inglewood.

LODDON VALLEY

Juniors at regional titles

NORTH Central and Loddon Val-

ley associations competed in Sunday’s Northern Association championships in Bendigo.

In the 13 and under age group, it was Central Murray that performed well to make the final but would ultimately lose to Bendigo Strathdale. North Central battled hard to make the semis.

In the 15 and under division, it was Central Murray again who stood tall for central Victoria performing very well to make the semis but they’re day was over after a loss to the Wimmera.

In the battle of the central Victorians, Loddon Valley fought hard to claim victory over Heathcote District FNL in the final match of the day.

In the 17 and under division, Bendigo remained undefeated in its 2023 Association Championships Season to claim the Final with a strong victory over Central Murray.

Bendigo and Central Murray teams now proceed to the State Association Championships in Melbourne where they will compete against the best in the state.

Redbacks face another tough task

Hill 59-39. Bears Lagoon Serpen-

19, 29, (29) lost to Bridgewater 12,

30, 36, (36) d

d

WEDDERBURN will be up against another tough opponent when North Central netball resumes after the bye on Saturday.

The Redbacks had their first loss in four years at the hands of momentum-charged Boort a fortnight ago and at Donaldson Park this weekend, come up

Silver medals at championships

NORTH Central Hockey Association representative sides have returned from championships at the weekend.

The junior country championships are the biggest event on the hockey calendar for our junior players.

Last weekend’s North Central league bye created to accommodate this fantastic weekend was apreciated by clubs.

Lasting friendships are forged between players or renewed as teams form to represent the North Central Hockey Association.

The excitement began on the Friday evening as two buses made the trek from Sea Lake and Birchip, snaking their way through each town to pick up 85 players and 30 supporting adults to embark on a weekend of hockey in Parkville, Greensborough and Essendon.

With only a few hours training as a team behind them and limited experience on the synthetic turf all teams performed admirably.

The Under 13 boys were coached by Kristy Knights and finished with a silver medal with their only loss being the grand final to Ballarat 0 -3 who had no goals

HOCKEY

scored against them for the tournament.

The under 13 girls under the guidance of Ella Lanyon finished fifth with three wins and three narrow losses.

For many this was their first JCC experience and their positive experience will guarantee their return next year.

Nicola Kirk enthusiastically coached the under 15 boys team who were unlucky not to win a few more of their closely-contested games. They finished seventh in their competition.

Kate Gifford’s under 15 girls improved as the tournament progressed, working hard on their game plan and creating a great team structure.

They finished on a high beating Sunraysia 3–0 to finish seventh.

Harrison Bowles and James Paley cocoached the under 18 boys who had a tough start playing their first against the team who had won the tournament for the last two years.

To their credit they stayed strong throughout the competition and will be a

team to watch with so many bottom age players.

The under 18 girls were coached by Naomi Fitzpatrick and the team gelled from the start of the tournament with their

against Birchip Watchem that sits in third place on the ladder. A win is vital for the Redbacks to keep pushing for a spot in the top two. It’s a similar battle in B Grade where third versus fourth will provide plenty of action when the teams take to the court.

short passing enabling them to deftly eliminate the opposition. They won all four games leading up to the grand final and had a tough game against a very slick East Gippsland to finish with a silver medal.

Inglewood A Grade skipper sweeps overnight rain from courts before Saturday’s clash with Newbridge. LH

Silver medalists at the junior championships ... North Central under 18 girls

Accuracy key to jumping hurdle

FOUR wins on the trot, winning three grades of football in one day ... that’s been the experience of Inglewood for the first time in two decades.

The Loddon Valley league club has lifted itself from the lower bowels of the ladder to being a genuine finals contender.

Occasionally, however, a step backwards is required to take two forward and this could happen in Saturday’s match of the round against Pyramid Hill.

The Bulldogs will welcome Inglewood to Mitchell Park and know that while they have come closest to Marong so far this season, it was the Blues who totally outclassed the premier Panthers for more than a quarter of football.

What will separate the two top teams

Pups have early improvement

PYRAMID Hill’s trip to Maiden Gully saw the recently reformed Under 18s overrun by a physically stronger Inglewood combination, and a severely depleted reserves unit kept to its lowest score for the season.

On the flip-side, the seniors were able to put the clamps on hosts the Eagles, and build significantly on its percentage.

Playing their fourth game in a row was a significant achievement for the youngest of the Dogs teams, and with plenty of energy and endeavour over four terms, and led in excellent fashion by Xavier Emmerson, Lewis Stubbs and Blake Gibson, the boys showed they are definitely improving.

The reserves were undermanned and were able to post just three goals. A positive was the ability to keep the opposition to 7 goals and minimise the damage. Seventeen players took the field, and with no inter-change to fall back on, the result was stamped at the first change. Tom Walker, Jack Douch and Rylan Delamere certainly earned a hot shower by game’s end.

Ten scoring shots in the opening stanza saw the Bulldogs senior team exert early control and with the hosts posting just one goal in the first half, the game was well and truly decided, and as a spectacle, never reached any great heights in the second half. Ten individual goalkickers would have pleased the coach’s bench, and with six of those scoring multiple times, there is plenty to look forward to. A 100-plus victory was set up by Dylan Collis, Billy Micevski, Zac Dingwall, Jesse Sheahan and Bryden Morison.

- GEOFF HICKMOTT

CENTRAL VICTORIA UNDER 18s

Pyramid Hill (1 3) Inglewood (1 67)

this Saturday could be goalfront accuracy and who can best string together a solid four quarters - neither have achieved the latter yet this season.

And Pyramid Hill has a few players running into super form. Collis and Micevski have shown they’re just warming up and will test the diversity of Inglewood’s improving midfield.

This should be a ripper match with the Bulldogs at home with the edge.

After breaking the ice last Saturday, Ant Dennis’ Calivil should aim for a follow-up victory on Saturday against Maiden Gully.

The Demons have a superior clearance across the midfield where Maiden Gully relies too heavily on Damien Wust to generate momentum.

The Eagles have lacked on-field discipline in the first seven rounds, something Calivil is working on and this could prove a real difference.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine is home for a second week, this time taking on Mitiamo.

The Bears have simply too much strength to be overly troubled by Mitiamo and should jump back into the top three after this round.

In the final match, last year’s grand finalists Bridgewater and Marong meet for the first time since September.

Marong won the flag by 94 points and there’s every reason a repeat margin is possible. Most interest will be at opposite ends so see how goal sneaks Grenfell and Martyn fare for the day.

Reckoning day on horizon for Redbacks

WILL the Wedderburn souffle rise for a second consecutive round? The Redbacks’ brains trust will be hoping it can when taking on last year’s North Central premiers Birchip Watchem at Donaldson Park this Saturday.

The two finalists from last year have had their challenges in 2023 and each with two wins so far.

The Bulls have accounted for lowly Wycheproof Narraport and Charlton. The Redbacks, on the other hand, have that opening round win of Wycheproof

SENIORS

and more impressively, a fighting twopoint victory over improving Boort a fortnight ago.

Redbacks’ coach Sam Barnes knows that this weekend’s round is the start of a defining few matches that will show where Wedderburn sits - around the pack or off the mark.

The wily coach is back in the team after five years on the sidelines and making his presence felt up forward.

Evergreens Adam Postle and Danny Benaim have also been shouldering a

IN FRONT OF GOAL

27 - (3) - Ben Edwards - Birchip Watchem

16 - (6) - Gedd Hommelhoff - Wycheproof N

16 - (3) - Sam Dunstan - Donald

15 - (0) - Billy Mcinnes - Sea Lake Nandaly

15 - (6) - Adam Thomson - Nullawil

13 - (2) - Sam Barnes - Wedderburn

12 - (0) - Mitch Farmer - Nullawil

11 - (1) - Cody Green - Wycheproof N

11 - (2) - Daniel Castellano - Birchip Watchem

11 - (2) - Tom Campbell - Wedderburn

9 - (3) - Jarrod Fitzpatrick - Boort RESERVES

13 - (3) - Ben Brennan - Wycheproof N

13 - (2) - Callum Goode - Birchip Watchem

12 - (1) - Patrick O’Rourke - Boort

10 - (0) - Sam Goldsmith - Nullawil

9 - (2) - Gerald Riley - Wedderburn

9 - (2) - Jason Perry - Nullawil

lot of the heavy work. But watch out for some of the younger brigade that Wedderburn is investing confidence in.

They stepped up when the chips looked like being crumbled by Boort.

A similar performance against the Bulls will have Wedderburn right in contention.

Birchip Watchem will be determined to tip the ladder ledger in its favour. Wedderburn has shown it can edge clear in the tight games and this could be the difference.

THIS SATURDAY

LODDON HERALD TIPS

Donald v St Arnaud

Wedderburn v Birchip Watchem, Wycheproof Narraport v Nullawil

Charlton v Sea Lake Nandaly

Boort bye.

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: Not supplied. Inglewood: L. Harris 7, K. McClellan 4, J. Luckman 3, O. Mathews, L. Hackett, T. Murphy 2, R. Murphy, B. Coffey. BEST - Pyramid Hill: Not supplied. Inglewood: L. Harris, W. Schepers, G. Nevins, O. Mathews, J. Wendels.

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- East Loddon: M. Hocking 3, T. Rasmussen, J. Rasmussen, L. James 2, J. Ketterer, F. Clymo, J. Diss, M. Hancock. Bridgewater: H. Daldy, J. Hetherton.

- East Loddon: J. Rasmussen, C. Tuohey, J. Diss, J. Addlem, J. Ketterer. Bridgewater: S. CookeKingston, C. Woodhatch, W. Salau, R. Wagner, O. Taylor, C. Orton.

front of goal: 18 (7) - Lachlan Harris (Inglewood), 15 (0) Zachary Conroy (Marong), 12 (3) Mason Hocking (East Loddon), 11 Zachary Rowe (Marong), 10 (0) Zac Justice (Marong), 8 Spencer Taylor(Marong), 8 (0) Lochie Hale (Marong), 7 (0) Lewis Stubbs (Pyramid Hill), 7 (0) Kobe McCaig (Marong), 7 (2) Lachlan James (East Loddon).

This Saturday: Bridgewater v Inglewood at Bridgewater, East Loddon v Marong at Raywood. Pyramid Hill bye.

AFL Central Victoria League junior squad held its first training session on Sunday with 30 players vying for selection to represent Loddon clubs in the annual junior gala day at Maiden Gully on June 4. Inglewood’s Leigh Lamprell (pictured) is coaching this year’s squad assisted by Marong’s Matthew Justice.

Newbridge’s Dylan Stevens tries to break through Inglewood’s defence. Stevens was named in the Maroons’ best. LH PHOTO

Merlin moments show Blues building evolutionary drive

INGLEWOOD has jumped to leaders of the middle-tier Loddon Valley league triumvirate with a 78-point victory over Newbridge.

The Blues percentage-boosting success was hallmarked with magical moments by a dashing Daniel Polack across the midfield, agility-plus marks deep forward by an outnumbered Gabe Nevins and half a dozen true kicks for goal by Charlie McGaw.

Add in another four goals from Sam Dorevitch who had a dominant day around the ground and Keylan Payne holding his ground in front of sticks for two and it was always going to be tough for Newbridge who could not break the Blues’ spell.

Early in the opening term, Newbridge more than challenged the home side and even hit the lead with goals from Chris Dixon and Sam Gale - they were in the right spots to capitalise on Inglewood miskicks.

The Blues then became more accurate, Dorevitch and Polack feeding the ball deep. McGaw put his side back in front and Nevins goaled on the siren to put Inglewood a respectable 14 points up at the break.

The next two quarters belonged to Inglewood - the second term seven-goal burst the Blues’ best since stunning Marong in the opening quarter in round two.

Newbridge’s defence was under growing pressure. Liam Nihil was to the fore repelling constant forward moves from Inglewood in opening minutes of the second term.

Dorevitch broke through for the first major, missed a chance for another just minutes later and then Ingham booted

the ball through from a wind-assisted 60 metres out to extend the lead. McGaw would kick two for the term while Dorevitch and Polack did much of the work to set up play.

Inglewood carried momentum into the third term adding another four goals but with seven behinds also registered.

The Maroons were not ready to capitulate with Lloyd, Stevens and McLeod battling against an opponent still with mag-

ic tricks up the sleeve. Newbridge was held goalless with forward entries only netting six behinds.

Inglewood eased off in the final term with both sides kicking four majors.

The Blues commitment in tight contests and stringing together magical moments the big difference in lifting percentage in the battle for third spot with Bridgewater and Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

- CHRIS EARL

Bears stamp out last-term Mean Machine revs

AN EARLY final quarter flurry of dash and drive from Bridgewater was quickly stamped out by Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

Rick Ladson’s Mean Machine was wanting to bridge the gap after Serpentine, rebounding from a shellacking at the hands of Marong the previous week, was serious in its chase for redemption.

The Bears were again without veteran Andrew Gladman and on Saturday also missed the presence of Orion Downing who had been dangerous around goal in earlier rounds.

His replacement Zach Stone was more than up for the assignment, booting two goals and being named in the best.

The opening blitz gave way to a more even contest in the second term - both sides added four goals but Serpentine was also adrift in front of sticks putting on six behinds.

Defences of both teams were challenged and the importance of turnovers highlighted with Zaas and Clements named in Serpentine’s best.

They were able to restrict Bridgewater

SENIORS

GOALS - Inglewood: C. McGaw 6, S. Dorevitch 4, C. Ingham, D. Polack, K. Payne 2, J. Rouse, G. Nevins, F. Payne, B. Cotchett. Newbridge: C. Dixon 3, L. Nihill 2, S. Gale, A. Fithall, M. Giri.

BEST - Inglewood: D. Polack, S. Dorevitch, C. McGaw, G. Nevins, C. Stobaus, K. Payne. Newbridge: D. Lloyd, D. Stevens, T. McLeod, J. Clark, M. Giri, M. Adams.

GOALS - Mitiamo: J. Reynolds 7, B. Baines, C. Milne. Calivil: H. Wall 3, J. Lawry, A. Dennis, B. Baker 2, E. Ritchie, T. Piazza, L. Mangan, R. Lourie.

BEST - Mitiamo: J. Reynolds, D. Proud, L. Lougoon, M. Simpson, R. Turner, E. Hocking. Calivil: E. Ritchie, R. Lourie, B. Mensforth, H. Wall, J. Hynes, W. Miller.

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GOALS - Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Laird 3, D. Poulter, N. Kemp, J. Bailey, C. Draper 2, Z. Stone, K. Paxton. Bridgewater: J. Martyn, N. Hall, H. Donegan 2, E. Pavlich.

BEST - Bears Lagoon Serpentine: K. Zass, D. Poulter, B. Roy-Clements, A. Brohm, Z. Stone, R. Prendergast. Bridgewater: L. Allison, D. Wood, J. Symons, J. Ellings, B. Derrick, E. Pavlich.

Gully 0.4 1.4 1.5 2.6 (18)

Hill 5.5 10.8 14.12 19.18 (132)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: C. Hale, B. Dimech. Pyramid Hill: B. George 4, W. Perryman 3, D. Collis, T. Brennan, B. Micevski, S. Mann 2, S. Gunther, M. Gunther, M. Dingwall, B. Morison.

BEST Maiden Gully: H. McCartney, J. McDonald, R. Bacon, S. Keneally, D. Wust, C. Walsh. Pyramid Hill: D. Collis, B. Micevski, J. Sheahan, B. Morison, B. George, S. Manni.

gun forward Josh Martyn to just two goals in the intense struggle.

Going virtually goal for goal in the third term, Bridgewater was down 29 points, still unable to recover on the scoreboard from the opening onslaught.

Serpentine showed dash and pace straight from the final term opening bounce.

Bridgewater lifted and constantly went into attack with midfield panache and height dominance in defence.

But the faint flicker of any revival was snuffed out when Darcy Poulter goaled and minutes later Callum Draper joined the party. Anthony Lewin was taking telling backs around to cut off Bridgewater.

In a final push, Bridgewater’s Emile Pavlich sprung out of the centre, took three bounces as he dodged opponents and goaled, the Mean Machine’s only major for the term and secure his spot along with Alison and Wood in the best.

Serpentine coach Justin Laird was again dangerous and chipped in with three goals.

IN FRONT OF GOAL SENIORS

37 - (2) - Joshua Martyn - Bridgewater

33 - (0) - Brandyn Grenfell - Marong

22 - (6) - Charlie McGaw - Inglewood

21 - (0) - Kain Robins - Marong

14 - (0) - Matthew Riordan - Marong

14 - (0) - Ryley Taylor - Marong

14 - (2) - Thomas Brennan - Pyramid Hill

14 - (2) - Keelan Payne - Inglewood

14 - (3) - Justin Laird - BL Serpentine Seniors

14 - (0) - Andrew Gladman - BL Serpentine

13 - (4) - Sam Dorevitch - Inglewood

13 - (0) - Jack McCaig - Marong

13 - (2) - Dylan Collis - Pyramid Hill

RESERVES

18 - (0) - Bradley Matthews - Marong

17 - (0) - Rowan Pollock - Pyramid Hill

14 - (4) - Clay Anstee - BL Serpentine

12 - (0) - Joel Pianto - Mitiamo

12 - (0) - Jonty Davis - Marong

Leach. Newbridge: C. Grant, T. Wilson, c. hoye, O. Gordon, D. Whan, C. Coleman.

GOALS - Mitiamo: S. Wright 2, T. Fitzallen. Calivil: C. Anderson, J. Manderson 2, N. Vine, P. Hansford. BEST - Mitiamo: H. Storey, A. Mckean, S. Wright, C. Collins, C. Williams, B. Niven. Calivil: P. Hansford, C. Smith, J. Manderson, J. Demeo, N. McPherson, C. Anderson.

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GOALS - Bears Lagoon Serpentine: C. Anstee 4, B. Sheahan 2, J. Gladman. Bridgewater: H. Terry 3, L. Harrison 2, J. Campbell, J. Roberts.

BEST - Bears Lagoon Serpentine: C. Davies, B. Sheahan, H. Catto, P. Russell, C. Anstee, J. Gladman. Bridgewater: R. Taylor, E. Woodhatch, J. McKinley, J.

J. Wild, O. Horan.

7.11 (53)

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GOALS - Maiden Gully: W. Donaczy 3, D. Baldwin 2, H. White, J. Doolan. Pyramid Hill: B. Gibson 2, J.

Carroll.

BEST - Maiden Gully: D. Baldwin, T. Durston, T. Hudson, R. Sarkady, M. Clark, J. Crisp. Pyramid Hill: T. Walker, J. Douch, M. Carroll, R. Pollock, G. Quinn, R. Delamare.

THIS SATURDAY

LODDON HERALD TIPS

Pyramid Hill v Inglewood

Calivil v Maiden Gully

Bears Lagoon Serpentine v Mitiamo Bridgewater v Marong Newbidge bye

Inglewood’s Bregon Cotchett. LH PHOTO

Beau Clements

HERALD sport

Thursday May 25, 2023

Side by side, Bulldog brothers savour senior team selection

COUNTRY clubs are family affairs and last weekend Pyramid Hill took those connections to new heights on the football field and netball courts.

The Bulldogs have been trumpeting the role played by four sets of brothers in their stirring victory over Maiden Gully - (from

And

UNITED IN HERITAGE

THE old Northern United colours will be back this weekend when Calivil hosts its first heritage round at Raywood in six years.

Calivil players will wear maroon and gold jumpers for the clash against Maiden Gully.

The Demons rose from the merger of Calivil and Northern United ahead of the 1997 Loddon Valley football season.

But the traditional Raywood

Maroon and Gold back on field for Demons’ Raywood return

round has either been cancelled by COVID or moved to Calivil since 2017 when netball courts at Northern United’s old home ground failed to meet the grade.

The courts are now back up to scratch and former Calivil president and a member of Northern United’s first two Bendigo league flag teams, Rod Lea, said the club

was looking forward to honouring the tradition and heritage of football in the area.

“It’s very important that we recognise where everything has come from,” he said.

“We still train at Raywood every Tuesday and after a few years not there for a match, it will be good to be back,” said Lea who

was one of the first recruits to the new-look Swallows for their BFL era of domination.

Calivil broke through for its first win of the Loddon Valley season last Saturday. And while slight favourite to clip the Eagles’ wings at Raywood, the Demons will have to cover the loss of three key players injured in the victory over Mitiamo.

They will play for the George Thompson shield with tbe best player to be awarded the Kevin Demeo medal.

Tom Rial injured his shoul-

der within minutes of the opening bounce and Will Cole also copped a shoulder blow later in the match.

Veteran Walter Miller, sitting on 198 games, will miss the rest of 2023 after breaking his leg in the final quarter.

Saturday’s heritage round starts with East Loddon Rams up against Marong in the Central Victoria under 18 league.

WEEKEND MATCH REPORTS, SCOREBOARDS - PAGES 22 & 23

left) Zac and Mitch Dingwall, Steven and Mitch Gunther, Matt and Brad Moon and, Bryden and Dylan Morison. The family connections didn’t stop there. The reserves saw Steven Gibson and son Blake and join regular defence father-son combination Matt and Jayson Carroll.

Chelsea and Rowan Broad were netball courtside all day watching children Lilian, Jordann, Tristan, Kaitlin and Imogen be part of the club’s big day of strong family connections. The family contribution at Mitchell Park also extends to offfield and administration roles with the Bulldogs.