Loddon Herald 26 August 2021

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Loddon HERALD Vol 1 No 31 THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2021 ISSN 2653-1569

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Rolling with restrictions VOLUNTEERS swung into action at Serpentine on Saturday morning preparing salad rolls for a pop-up shop after the sudden State Government direction to abandon weekend sport.

The local football-netball club had been set to host the first Loddon Valley league final with pies, pasties, salad rolls and barbecue meat ready to feed players and parents.

Canteen manager Sarah Byrnes quickly brought her volunteer team together and by 11am locals had ordered and picked up lunches and dinners.

“We had the food ready, we didn’t want to waste it,” she said.

“Everyone has been amazing at such short notice.

“We’ve made up more than 100 salad rolls and they’re a sell out. The barbecue meat will just stay in the freezer.”

Allira James and volunteers at Serpentine ready with the rolls. LH PHOTO

SUDDEN IMPACT

LODDON businesses had less than two hours to prepare for trading under regional Lockdown 7.0 New restrictions were swiftly imposed from early Saturday afternoon as local hotels and cafes scrambled to notify staff and put food for weekend bookings back into storage.

“Two hours’ notice was just

n LATEST IN THE REGION - PAGE 5 n SEEK OUT JOY - PAGE 8

n COVID SAFETY LIFTOUT - PAGES 9-12 terrible and this time people seem a bit more frightened,” said Wedderburn cafe owner Julie Benaim. “There’s only so much you can put back in the freezer.

“It was a shocking way they brought in this latest lockdown for country towns ... this one has really hit people. You just can’t plan ahead.”

Inglewood IGA’s Peter Moore said there was a flurry of shoppers in the hours after Saturday’s announcement.

“We were quite busy as people quickly stocked up.”

He said the store continued to check for compliance with restrictions and “we’re cleaning regularly to keep the public and our staff safe”.

Major sporting events across

the Loddon, already postponed at least once, have been impacted including the Pyramid Hill golf tournament. But the region’s third on-property merino ram sale tomorrow at Willera stud, Serpentine, will go ahead.

The sudden lockdown now has country communities with the same restrictions as Melbourne, except for the night curfew, until September 2.

2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021

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HE RAPID return to lockdown has had a number of our regular correspondents to OTF scratching their heads - did we really come out of Lockdown 5.0 before Lockdown 6.0 before Lockdown 7.0? Should we be treating the three as a single triology (now that’s a tautological paradox if ever there was)? After all, how can a few days or weeks between each struggle be classed as a reprieve, they’ve told OTF over the weekend. But one of the better known scallywags saw a silver lining in the numerical designation being applied to lockdowns. “We’re one ahead of Melbourne so yet again the country leads the way,” he quipped.

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HE lockdown gave our quizman Will plenty of time to prepare for his weekly battle with the brainiac cousin in the United Kingdom where residents are currently enjoying a tad more freedom than here in Vic. “Congratulations on an awesome quiz this week, great questions and I’m sure it will be a good overall knowledge test for many. I won’t, however, embarrass myself with my personal score, bit like my golf, I enjoy the challenge but the execution is not my forte too often. I have just sent it to my cousin in the UK and I’m absolutely certain I will be further embarrassed pending her reply,” he emailed. Having foreshadowed a poor result with the aplomb of government conditioning of pending restriction changes in the media, Will popped in a second email a mere 15 minutes later. “Michelle replied, score was 15 correct. I haven’t divulged my score lol.” So the question, Will, what’s higher: Golf handicap or quiz answers correct?

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RACLE Glenn had big plans for Saturday.

He reckons it would have been game 498 or 499 as an umpire. Lockdown has him hovering at the milestone but not to be deterred, he found time to research his claims back in March about one of the weekly quiz questions. “l thought l would send you these photos of

the atlas to back up the length of the longest river in Australia. lt’s a bugger the mob in Melbourne pulled the plug on my umpiring duties today so l had a little bit of time this morning to fill in. The old Complete Atlas of Australia was our Bible in our geography classes in the Maryborough High School in the early 70s. Cheers from the old umpiring oracle.” For the record, the question in doubt way back when was the longest river in Australia. Now Glenn disputed the answer of the Murray, saying it was the Darling. On the photos of this Reader’s Digest publication, the Murray is still, it’s New South Wales (the border we’re not allowed to cross at the moment) where the Darling is the longest!

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EADER’S Digest first appeared as a magazine in the US 99 years ago. The magazine reaches millions of people in more than 70 countries, via 49 editions in 21 languages.

The periodical has a global circulation of 10.5 million, making it the largest paid-circulation magazine in the world. DeWitt Wallace started the magazine while recovering from shrapnel wounds received in World War I, gathering a sampling of favourite articles on many subjects from various monthly magazines, sometimes condensing and rewriting them, and to combine them into one magazine. Guess you could say words have been flowing longer than the Murray and the Darling Rivers combined.

Share your yarns in Over the Fence loddonherald@gmail.com

PIE PROTECTION: Tim Johns uses an umbrella to avoid pesky magpies while playing golf at Inglewood with Braden Pearce and Bruce Issac. LH PHOTO

Watch out! Magpies overhead SWOOPING magpies are menacing Loddon residents out for their two hours of daily exercise under COVID restrictions.

No matter the time of day, these black and white pests are not staying in their nests, annoyingly ambivalent to social distancing calls.

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning senior wildlife management officer Leila Brook said while less than 10 per cent of swooping birds did swoop, people should have a plan if they were worried.

“Swooping is essentially a

scare tactic to warn people and animals not to come near the nesting young,” Ms Brook said.

“If you have a plan of action and try to keep your distance, you’re already halfway to living harmoniously with wildlife and keeping yourself safe at the same time.

“To reduce the impact of swooping, try to remain as calm as you can if you find yourself being swooped.

“Do try to protect your head and eyes and move quickly – but don’t run, as this actually upsets the birds,” he said.

New calls on sustaining local roads THE STATE Government has been urged develop a plan for regional roads and bridges and dedicate 10 years funding for sustainable maintenance.

Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh has backed the Infrastructure

Victoria call and says a Coalition government would provide $1 million to every regional council annually for four years.

Road condition concerns were recorded in the latest Loddon Shire Council satisfaction survey.

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Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021 | 3

Home calls health chief

BOORT District Health board will meet this week to begin the process of finding a new chief executive officer.

Dr Darren Clarke’s resignation was announced last Friday and health service chair Wendy Gladman said the board would look at options and begin the task of recruiting a replacement.

“We will also be having discussions with the (Health) department at regional level,” Ms Gladman said.

Dr Clarke finishes at Boort next month, relocating back to South Australia for family reasons due to the ongoing uncertainty associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly around inter-

state border closures. He will start a local health network role with SA Health in early October.

Dr Clarke said: “It has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to have been part of the leadership team at Boort District Health since June 2017.

“Together, we have made significant progress across our entire health service and I remain very confident that BDH will continue to develop and excel as it embraces future opportunities.

“I sincerely thank the board, our staff, volunteers, local community and our colleagues across the broader health system for their constant support and collaboration throughout my

tenure as CEO at Boort District Health.”

Ms Gladman said: “We have been very fortunate to have Darren lead and guide our health service and have seen many positive outcomes during his time with us.

“Darren is leaving the health service in a strong position and we would like to thank him for his commitment and contribution to not only the health service but the wider health and wellbeing outcomes of Boort and district.

“We wish Darren all the very best in his new role and his relocation back to South Australia.”

Dr Clarke’s resignation is the

second from Loddon health services in recent months.

Tracey Wilson resigned as chief executive officer with Inglewood and Districts Health Service in June.

Greg Pullen was last month apppointed interim chief executive officer while the board goes through a recruitment process for an expected three-month tenure. Chairman Michael Oerlemans said in June that the board would also be liaising with the Health Department on filling the vacancy. z Meanwhile, Loddon Shire Council is continuing its search for a new CEO following the retirement of Phil Pinyon in July.

Poll dispute hearing in Melbourne VICTORIAN Civil and Administrative Tribunal on Tuesday began a scheduled two-day hearing into complaints about the 2020 Loddon Shire Council election.

Defeated candidate in Boort Ward, Ken Pattison, is listed as the applicant in the hearing.

Victorian Electoral Commission had earlier said it was “responding to three applications submitted to the Victorian Civil and Administration Tribunal (VCAT) in relation to last year’s Loddon Shire Council elections”.

“The three separate applications are being heard together by the consent of all parties. As the matters are still before VCAT, we are not in a position to comment any further.”

In its election report to council in June, the VEC said: “Following the Loddon Shire Council general election, three applications were lodged with the VCAT,” “The applications were separately made by Boort Ward candidate Ken Pattison, Wedderburn Ward candidate Reginald Stanley Ormond Holt and a group of 14 voters also in the Wedderburn Ward.”

The report said the applications concerned operation of council policies, actions and decisions of previous council and election material.

IN BRIEF Drones above LATEST technology has been used to check power lines along the Calder Highway at Wedderburn and Bridgewater this week.

Powercor said drones had been used to “inspect powerlines and pole-tops faster and in greater detail than ever before.”

Head of network asset management John Mifsud said drone inspections would cover a large area, quickly, with high-definition cameras used to capture the condition of powerlines.

“This trial is about finding new ways to keep our network operating safely and reliably,” Mr Mifsud said.

90th celebrated PYRAMID Hill’s June Bayliss has been able to celebrate her 90th birthday with family and friends.

The occasion was finally marked between the latest lockdowns, earlier attempts to be together for the milestone thwarted by COVID restrictions.

And to add significance to the occasion, the celebration at Pyramid Hill’s Victoria Hill had a special appearance from “the Queen” who handed over a congratulatory card.

Essential packs INGLEWOOD Lions Club this week distributed essential pantry packs, fruit and vegetables.

The club had received prepacked pantry essentials from the Salvation Army as well as fruit and vegetables, breads, some frozen meals and limited personal care items.

Solar bulk buy Vietnam veterans Barry Giles and Mal Gilmour at the Inglewood commemoration. LH PHOTO

Veterans pause to remember VIETNAM Veterans’ Day was observed at Inglewood’s 100-year-old war memorial last week.

A small gathering of veterans, family and friends assembled for the twilight commemoration.

Inglewood-Bridgewater RSL sub-branch secretary Bill Concol conducted the brief service with Navy veteran and local artist Mal Gilmour

laying a wreath near the memorial’s Vietnam War plaque.

At Wedderburn-Korong Vale sub-branch, the regular Friday night gathering was dedicated to Vietnam veterans.

Vietnam Veterans’ Day is traditionally observed on August 18, the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966.

AN INFORMATION session on MASH (More Australian Solar Homes) will be held in Tarnagulla next month.

The session will include information about the Loddon Shire Council-supported solar bulk-buy and the $500 Federal Government solar and battery rebate for Tarnagulla residents, available to eligible residents through the funded microgrid feasibility project for Tarnagulla.

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021

PIE OF THE MONTH: Our great Sausage Roll Customers at Pyramid Hill Bakery and Cafe just love our great Sausage Rolls for amazing flavour. They’re a wonderful snack or ideal for a meal.

... AND FOR A SWEET TREAT We’ll go with what our loyal and new customers say - yes it’s the Vanilla Slice. One regular can’t believe the size of our delicious Vanilla slices and Mick our baker reckons if a man makes them then they should be man size

PUTTING A SMILE ON FACES Pyramid Hill Bakery Cafe is well known for its homemade Pies, Pasties and Sausage Rolls one customer says there are the best because “you don’t get indigestion” and there are full of flavor and the sauce is free.

When restrictions are eased come and try our yummy menu Ceaser wraps with home roasted chicken lettuce cheese ceaser sauce Coming soon soft serve ice cream and Thick shakes Hope too see you soon Stay Safe from the Pyramid hill Bakery Cafe

PIE OF THE MONTH: Our delicious range is your amazing choice Our range of original and specialty flavour pies put colour and joy into the seasons. We’ve so many, we’re making every one our Pie of the Month to give you choice in the first month of Spring.

A BIG THANK YOU Bridgewater Bakehouse would like to thank all our lovely customers for their loyalty and continuous support throughout the lockdowns and we look forward to continuing our great food and service into the future.

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021 | 5

Students pick up packs in return to remote learning LODDON school children are back to remote learning.

Local principals spent the weekend with other school leaders across Victoria being briefed

by Education Department officials and preparing to again activate plans for students at home.

Inglewood Primary School principal Lex Johnstone said students on Monday called at school to collect work packs.

The day was made a studentfree day by the Government to allow schools time to again switch to remote learning from Tuesday.

“The students and their families have been chirpy when collecting the work packs. Again, resilience is on show,” Mr Johnstone said.

Families also had a chance to collect a range of cereals, fruit, spreads and soups provided to the school by the breakfast club program.

Mr Johnstone had earlier told parents: “Please understand this lockdown is different to previous lockdowns and we really must do all we can to ensure that we minimise movement around our local communities.

“I very much understand how difficult this is for families, however we must do our part and do all that we can do, to keep our community safe.

“Staff will not be attending school during this period of lockdown unless they absolutely have to and I ask our families do the same. On-site supervision for students will only be approved in exceptional circumstances.

“Families requesting on-site supervision during this lockdown period must be able to provide proof that this is required.”

Lockdown 7.0 restrictions have further limited available exemptions to the stay-at-home orders.

Meanwhile, all Loddon Shire Council facilities have been closed under the latest State Government restrictions.

Local hotels and cafes have returned to offering take-away food as calls are made to continue supporting local businesses.

Masks continue to be compulsory outdoors and indoors except the home and health authorities are now also encouraging the wearing of masks for children under 12.

Click, collect at busy time SPRING is one of the busiest times for Bridgewater Nursery owner Bianca Rothacker as people begin preparing to plant their vegetable patches.

“It’s been a bit of a blow being put back into lockdown at the start of spring,” she said.

But to keep the region’s green thumbs active in the garden, Bridgewater Nursery has become one of the latest local businesses to offer click and collect.

“We’re also doing deliveries around the Loddon and into Bendigo so everyone can keep gardening through lockdown,” she said.

Permit for work travel LODDON residents travelling to and from work are required to carry a permit under Lockdown 7.0 restrictions. The permits must be signed by the employer and record the days and times of travel. Forms are available from the State Government’s website.

Network dinner off KOOYOORA Women’s Network has postponed its dinner next Wednesday. A new date will be set when the length of lockdown and restrictions are clearer.

Gathering wait Inglewood Primary School Year 2 student Shelbie Brereton collects her work pack on Monday.

A DECISION on November’s Women on Farms Gathering in Inglewood will be made closer to the event.

Applications open for Victorian Youth Congress

Fee waiver or reduction policy adopted

If you’re a young Victorian aged 12 to 25 years, the Victorian Government wants to hear from you – with applications now open for the 2022 Victorian Youth Congress.

At its meeting last month, Council adopted the Fees and Charges – Waiver or Reduction Policy.

Council regularly receives requests from community groups to provide funding support in the form of fee waivers or reductions for a large range of programs, projects, events or initiatives. This policy provides guidance for these types of requests.

The Victorian Youth Congress is the Minister for Youth’s advisory group of young people who work with government to put young people’s ideas and experiences at the centre of government decision-making.

The Congress provides an opportunity to get involved in the implementation of Victoria’s new youth strategy, due to be released later this year.

The policy applies to any not-for-profit organisation, incorporated association or unincorporated community group which provides a community benefit to Council and wish to apply to have a fee and/or charge waived or reduced. The policy does not apply to Council rates and rebates.

Applicants do not need previous experience working with government. Successful applicants will gain valuable insight into how government works, how policies are made and what you can do to influence the process.

To apply or for more information, visit the Victorian Youth Congress website www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au

For more information and to access the policy and associated application form please visit Council’s website.

Applications are open until 13 September 2021.

WEDDERBURN

SERPENTINE

41 High Street Wedderburn 3515

37 Peppercorn Way Serpentine 3516

T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003

T: 5494 1202 F: 5437 8407

Open to the public, subject to

Currently closed to the public, customer support service available by phone

COVID-19 restrictions Mayor Cr Neil Beattie Boort Ward 0427 552 468

Cr Wendy Murphy Inglewood Ward 0436 457 170

Cr Linda Jungwirth Tarnagulla Ward 0428 259 082

Cr Dan Straub Terrick Ward 0429 236 399

Cr Gavan Holt Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm

E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021

Care group calls time MEMBERS of Wedderburn Care Group will meet for the final time next month.

The group will formally disband after 12 years, It has been in recess for four months after facing rising insurance premiums, the impact of COVID on fundraising and membership and restrictions that have not allowed organisations to receive care packs.

The group started after the local Lions Ladies held a meeting in June 2009 to ascertain support for a support group similar to the Valkyrie Care Group in Bendigo. .

The group produced ‘Bags of Care’. Each tote bag contained

an X-ray bag, heat pack, small cushion, draw string bag, lavender bag and a scarf.

The free bags were given to community members facing serious health challenges.

To ensure confidentiality, most bags were distributed by health practitioners. The group completed 110 ‘Bags of Care’ in its first year.

Irene Finch, who was the group’s first co-ordinator, said volunteers made knitted and crocheted knee rugs and beanies for distribution to needy people in the community and to aged care residents at Inglewood, Boort, Charlton and St Arnaud.

Approximately 80 knee rugs were distributed in the first year. The group obtained grants and donations from the community to further their work.

Group volunteers also made saleable items, to raise funds to meet on-going expenses. Recipients of ‘Bags of Care’ and rugs were always surprised that the items were given free.

“This is what set the care group apart from many other support groups,” Irene said.

The group has some printing and sewing equipment still to sell as members wind up operations, contact Faye Hodges on 0428 394 615 for more information.

Debs make it to the ball ... just BOORT’S 2020 debutantes finally stepped out on Friday night at their fourth attempt and just hours before another lockdown.

The debutante ball had been postponed by earlier lockdowns, including one of the eve of the big night for the five girls and their partners.

And then last week, the stars finally aligned for the Boort District Health, Starry Night Debutante Ball 2020 at the Memorial Hall.

The debutantes were Chloe Brown (partnered by Jake Boyd), Sophie Cockerell (Elias Lanyon), Acacia Vernon (Josh Rothacker), Emma Anderson (Fletcher Last) and Ebony Chamberlain (Angus Potter).

The official flower girl was Alisha Henderson. Also assisting as flower girls were Dahli Rye, Lucy Lanyon, Scarlett Crilly, Ella Howe, and Hannah Talbot “The ball had been postponed many times over the last 18 months, resulting in disappointment by the five couples,” said organiser Roslyn Lanyon.

“Friday night saw a very different format to other balls due to COVID-19.

“The stunning couples were able to present their three official presentation dances to two separate sittings,” she said.

Under strict COVID regulations, the audience watched the couples dance The Alton, The Tangoette and The Stroll Along Cha-Cha. The Pride of Erin was also danced by the couples and

In partnership with

Find out about: • the council-supported solar bulk-buy •

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Care Group members Denise Caulfield, Irene Finch and Faye Hodges accepting the first Inglewood Community Bank grant at a ceremony at Newbridge in 2009.

IN BRIEF State success TWO members of the Campbell’s Forest Country Women’s Association branch have had success in the state creative arts exhibition. Lyn Griffin was awarded first place in the felted knitting section for her hat and third place in the bag section. Toni Shea was placed first in the medium item crochet section.

Author visit STUDENTS at Bridgewater Primary School last week continued their participation in the Children’s Book Council of Australia 2021 awards with a visit by author Corinne Fenton. The school was earlier this year selected as a shadow judge for the Book of the Year awards’ picture book section and students have been studying Corinne’s work during classes.

Licence lost

The Boort District Health debutante set on Friday night. then with their parents. The deb set was presented to BDH board chair Wendy Gladman and Cheryl and Murray Chalmers who had trained the debutantes and their partners.

The Starry Night theme was

highlighted in the set which featured starry walls and a crescent moon seat made by Elias Lanyon.

Elias also entertained the crowd with live music as they were unable to dance due to the restrictions.

Roslyn said: “The night was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.”

The ball was livestreamed to those family and friends who were unable to attend and help raise funds for BDH.

IN MELBOURNE Magistrates’ Court last Thursday, Loddon councillor Gavan Holt pleaded guilty to charges of exceeding a zero blood alcohol content while driving last year. Holt was given a 12-month good behaviour bond, ordered to pay $1000 to a road trauma support service and disqualified from driving for 12 months from November 16 last year.

tarnagulla solar & battery info meeting TARNAGULLA PUBLIC HALL 69-71 Commercial Rd, Tarnagulla VIC 3551 Thursday 9th September 6.00-7.30pm REGISTER YOUR PLACE Call 1300 466 274 | Visit mash.org.au/tarnagulla

“I like that the bulk-buy is a council-supported program with free solar that goes back to the community.”

– Colleen T., Bulk-Buy Participant

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021 | 7

Enterprise plans advance A NEW community enterprise shop is planned for Pyramid Hill’s former maternal child health building.

Loddon Shire Council on Tuesday agreed to make the disused Kelly Street building available to the Mix Bag@Pyramid Hill enterprise.

Wellbeing director Wendy Gladman said a group of local community members had ap-

proached officers with a community enterprise proposal to establish a “share shop” business and wanting the building retained for community use.

Terrick Ward councillor Dan Straub said the request showed a group that wanted Pyramid Hill to prosper and be provided with new opportunities.

The group plans repairs totalling more than $12,000 to the

building in two stages before opening the enterprise. Works include replacement of the floor, painting and a new toilet with funds sought through grants.

The new store will focus on attracting grey nomads to the area and where homemade crafts, fresh produce and quality vintage goods will be sold, according to the group’s business plan.

Council’s agreement for the

not-for-profit social enterprise to use the building has six conditions.

These include ending of the expired memorandum of understanding with the Pyramid Hill, Neighbourhood House, continued access to the Men’s Shed by future users of that facility, use at no cost to council and that the operating model remain as a notfor-profit community enterprise

Hi-ho, hi-ho working away in garden WORK has started clearing weeds and rubbish from around the Bridgewater railway station.

The first of many planned working bees just before the latest COVID lockdown had volunteers whistling and singing in time to chipping shovels and spades as they pulled wild weeds and cut down grass fuelled by winter rains.

Kooyoora Women’s Network is transforming the disused station into a community hub.

A community garden will also be established at the station.

Prestige award TURNERS Crossing 2010 The Crossing Shiraz has received a top gong in this year’s Halliday 2022 Wine Companion reviews.

The nation’s premier wine magazine has given silver to the local wine.

“The company’s premium shiraz comes in a heavy bottle, cork and wax seal,” the judges said.

“Built large, this big, ripe shiraz delivers something for everyone. Bursting in ripened plums, licorice, earth, sweet spiced oak, and there’s even a waft of eucalypt, too.

“It’s warm and rich to taste, the toasty oak and spice rolling in across a palate of supple tannins. Will definitely build further.”

Guilty plea

CHIPPING AWAY: Ruth Barkla, Graham Morse and Jenny Hosking. LH PHOTO

Community benefits as partners in health program MEMBERS of Pyramid Hill’s Filipino community have been part of a partnership training bilingual health promotion workers.

The initiative by Northern District Community Health, Women’s Health Loddon Mallee and Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health supported Filipino women of Pyramid Hill to understand what services were available to them, and how to access the supports and programs they or their families might need.

The project has also supported the women to increase their health literacy.

NDCH said feedback from the sessions showed the women had increased control in their life in regard to each subject area after attending the bilingual health information sessions.

IN BRIEF

BILLY-JO Salter, 23, on Tuesday pleaded guilty in the County Court to charges of dangerous driving causing death and destruction of evidence.

Salter was charged after vision-impaired pedestrian Ray Meadows was struck and killed in Wedderburn on June 2, 2019. He had pleaded not guilty at a committal hearing in May. Bail has been extended to a pre-sentence hearing on November 11.

PETER PETER WALSH WALSH

YOUR YOUR VOICE VOICE IN IN GOVERNMENT PARLIAMENT are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours $250We POWER SAVING BONUS — but most of all we are a community.

DOES MURRAY PLAINS QUALIFY? 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.Yes, The Federal is providing support for theconcession mental health and wellbeing of if youGovernment have a Centrelink pension card, Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you a Department of Veterans Affairs gold card or feel like you might need some additional help copingconcession with anxiety andor worry about Coronavirus.

“This initiative has built strong relationships between the Filipino community and partner organisations, while improving service navigation and empowering Filipino women to be active participants in their health and well-being,” it said.

receive Jobseeker, Youth Allowance, Abstudy or Austudy; you do.

For the latest Coronavirus information go to peterwalsh.org.au or follow us on Go to www.compare.energy.vic.gov.au orthrough. call my office We are in this together, and together we will get

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

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021

FEATURES

Seek out joy and kindness in the small things of life

AS WE work through another week in lockdown, there is absolutely no doubt that this is hard.

We are all fatigued from constantly adapting and readapting as circumstances and rules change over and over.

The constant uncertainty is heavy. And we are tired and afraid.

Now is not the time for pretending that everything is wonderful, and “focussing on the positives”.

That kind of positivity is often toxic, as it invalidates how we are feeling, and leaves us feeling like we have failed if we feel sad, frustrated or angry.

What can be more helpful in these uncertain and scary times, is to acknowledge what is hard, uncertain and scary, while also looking for what else there is in life right now.

The smell of the first cup of coffee for the day. Your favourite song. A child’s laughter. Sunshine. A message from someone you love.

So often, the small things are the big things.

While the world seems out of control, we can make choices to notice these things alongside the hard things that are happening right now.

We can find our AND. The other thing that is within our power is to reduce our expectations of ourselves.

Given everything that is happening, now is not time to push ourselves, but rather to be kind.

So, in Lockdown 7.0, try to find the joy

PERSPECTIVE

in the small things. And be kind to yourself.

Tips for managing in Lockdown 7.0 z Acknowledge name and validate how you are feeling. z Practice self-compassion and reduce your expectations of yourself z Limit exposure to the news – curate your social media news feed and. Try not to watch the TV news or check the online news on repeat.

z Look for the small moments of joy z Move your body z Eat well z Prioritise sleep z Connect with others where you can, online

Dr Malone, a Boort counselling psychologist, is the 2021 recipient of the Rural Workforce Agency Victoria’s Outstanding Contribution by a Rural Allied Health Professional award.

EDITORIAL ANOTHER lockdown, another set of challenges and stripped away, with just two hours’ notice, the capacity to enjoy a weekend’s planned activities.

Sport had already been abandoned just over 12 hours before Saturday’s sudden lockdown, the swiftest yet over the last 18 months.

Perhaps that Friday night directive from government should have had the crystal ball predicting what would come the next day!

The rapid action certainly jolted country people in our part of the state. Sure, it’s happened before but not like this.

Local small businesses have again been left angered and confused. How can they

plan for even a day? There’s the impact on ordering food for hospitality businesses, the temporary takeaway schedule is not the same as every table filled for lunch or dinner.

Some businesses will again receive a little government assistance but others still fall through the cracks of lockdown support.

After 18 months of opening and shutting, bouncing around with less certainty than before, readers may ask whether a better balance is needed between lockdown and keeping business open.

The risk to health that COVID-19 has unleashed across Australia and the world is real and present.

But so too, ordinary Australians are yo-yoing through life. The emotional and physical health should have the same consideration in decisions of government.

As Dr Naomi Malone writes on this page in the Loddon Herald this week, we can resolve ourselves with the small things that bring joy and smile to our lives.

She encourages us to find our “and” in these challenging times.

Government should also now look to find the “and” in managing this pandemic that could likely continue to disrupt life way beyond the time 70 or 80 per cent of the population is fully vaccinated.

Country people continue to be resilient, ... a little balance would grow strength.

1. Who was the first person to be awarded two Nobel prizes?

2. In which country was Lutheranism founded?

3. In chess, how many pieces does each player start a game with?

4. In Scrabble, each player starts with how many tiles?

5. According to the saying, a fool and his money are soon …?

6. Who is credited with discovering gravity?

7. What aircraft has not been flown commercially since October 2003?

8. What is Shakespeare’s longest play?

9. Which gas solidifies to form dry ice?

10 Where does the Loddon Valley Highway start and finish?

11. What was the first currency minted in Australia?

12. How many sides does a 50 cent coin have?

13. What year was that shape coin introduced?

14. To the nearest million, how many $100 notes are in circulation in Australia?

15. When was the first polymer banknote issued in Australia?

16. What is the capital of Azerbaijan?

17. Where is Bennelong Point?

18. Who opened the Sydney Opera House?

19. What is the Scottish pole tossed at highland games?

20. What is the motto of the Scouts?

ANSWERS 1. Marie Curie. 2. Germany. 3. 16. 4. Seven. 5. Parted. 6. Isaac Newton. 7. Concorde. 8. Hamlet. 9. Carbon dioxide. 10.

Bendigo, Kerang. 11. Holey dollar. 12. 12 (Dodecagonal). 13. 1969. 14. 300 million.

15. 1988. 16. Baku. 17. Sydney. 18. The Queen. 19. Caber. 20. Be prepared.

By NAOMI MALONE

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021 | 9

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Wonderful hampers from Loddon lands FATHER’S Day... the day we show our gratitude to the father figures in our lives.

Imagine though, that you could at the same time show some gratitude to our hard working local producers?

Well, you can make that happen.

By shopping online at The Loddon Shed you can purchase from a wide range of local products all made right here in Loddon.

The lands of Loddon allow for true sustainable living. A Mediterranean climate, rich soils, open plains and ancient granite outcrops, wetlands and forests teeming with life all attract innovative and eco-conscious creators, farmers and artisans to produce unique products in the region.

The vast range of suppliers available through The Loddon Shed include the organic hand poured soap making company Xanna Natural,

uniquely creative Bridgewater Berets, wool grown, dyed and spun locally at Yaruga Plains, Woolly Warmers therapeutic heat pads made from wheat and wool, luxury soy candles created by Little Red Candle Co, lovingly and organically grown saffron from Squirrel Gully Saffron and products from award winning olive producer Salute Oliva.

Plus eucalyptus products from Wedderburn Tourism, Bosisto’s and Bygum, Bridgewater Bakehouse, Red Dog Chillies, Bush Track Bees, Chiron Organics, Pyramid Salt, Mincha Munchies, Simply Tomatoes, Billabong Organics as well as wines from Black Wallaby Wines, Old Kingower Wines and Newbridge Wines are all also available from the store.

There are pre-made hampers to select from - The Loddon Shed Hamper in particular features some great products for those who love

cooking, or you can build your own hamper as big or small as you like.

Handmade with love – each hamper is packed with great attention to detail to ensure the products will arrive safely after their journey.

The Loddon Shed delivers Australia wide so you can send a gift even if you are separated by distance.

Visit The Loddon Shed at www.theloddonshed.com.au

Finest meats for a top bloke

DAD’S love a barbecue and the finest cuts of quality meat from The Fat Butcher in Inglewood will more than tempt him on Father’s Day. The choicest rib-eye cooked just right on the barbecue will make Dad’s Day or there’s the special packs for breakfast, lunch or dinner to share as a family.

A barbecue is a great way to share time with Dad on Sunday September 5 whether at home or in the local park.

Match the finest cuts of meat with local wines also available from The Fat Butcher in Brooke Street, Inglewood.

14 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021

Family makes best locally THE Country Shop in Boort is proudly local - the Lanyon family and local staff making quality local products that are an ideal Father’s Day gift.

Owned and operated by Ian and Marilyn Lanyon and their family, The Country Shop includes Aussie Wool Quilts recently re-branded and now known as Country Wool Bedding.

The products are still the same high quality bedding, and are made right in the main street of Boort Made from locally sourced wool, the handmade quilts, under-blankets and pillows are highly sought after by locals, visitors and through online sales from around the world - discerning customers finding that extra special gift for special people.

The Country Shop has the gifts to add extra comfort to your Dad’s life, including the amazing Woolly Warmers. These therapeutic aides help melt away aches and pains.

And The Country Shop is also renowned for the range of tomatoes and dressings that are produced by Simply Tomatoes, more quality country produce from the Lanyons.

So make Dad’s day extra special on Sunday September 5 and pamper him with gifts from the Country Shop in Boort.

Melt Dad’s Heart this Father’s Day Pop on into The Country Shop and grab Dad a Therapeutic Woolly Warmer to melt his aches and pains away.

They are a great gift that keeps on giving. Just a minute or two in the microwave and the wheat encased in our pure Australian wool helps to soothe away the aches and pains. Dad will have warm memories of you every time he heats this special Fatherʼs Day gift..

There are over 20 different types, one for each ache and pain Dad might have. Prices from $30 to $120.

We also have a great range of Quilts and Pillows for Dad.

FREE POSTAGE ON ALL WOOLLY WARMER IN-STORE AND PHONE ORDERS BEFORE 3rd SEPTEMBER

LODDON MADE FROM THE FINEST AUSTRALIAN WOOL

Available online or in-store at The Country Shop www.thecountryshop.com.au | 114 Godfrey St Boort Phone 03 5455 2354

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021 | 15

Average prices higher at annual ram sales THIS year’s on-property ram sale circuit came to the Loddon last week.

Terrick West Poll Merino stud on Wednesday offered 80 rams at its 32nd annual sale attended by buyers and agents from across the state.

Stud principal Ross McGauchie was pleased with attendance and clearance rate.

The highest price paid was $5250 for a 21-micron ram with a phone bid by buyer representative, Nutrien Ag Merino specialist Stephen Chalmers, on behalf of a NSW buyer.

The ram was sired by Wallaloo Park 60 and had Australian Sheep Breeding Values including an eye muscle depth (EMD) of 44mm and fat depth of 9.5mm. The ram had fleece figures of comfort factor of 99.5 per cent, a standard deviation of three microns and coefficient of variation of 14 per cent.

Stud principal Ross McGauchie said the sale average of $2842 was up almost $500 on last year.

The clearance of the 80-ram offering was on par with 2020 and was topped off on the day with a private sale of a ram for $20,000 to Kilcoolin Pastoral Company near Kilmore.

“It’s a very good ram and we would have been taking him to the Adelaide sales. But the offer come in before Adelaide and we accepted,” Ross said.

The pre-auction sale to Kilcoolin followed a $30,000 sale of a Terrick West ram at Marnoo’s Victorian State Merino Field Day earlier in the week.

The on-property auction ran parallel with the online selling platform for the first time. “I think it worked well,” Ross said.

Ross said the online addition

was gaining acceptance from new generation breeders and re-stockers.

“The bulk of sales were to returning clients although one of the new buyers, from Broken Hill, made three purchases,” he said. “But while people will become more confident with the online options for purchasing rams, most people will still want to to be hands-on in seeing rams at sale.”

Ross expected the six rams passed in at auction to be sold in coming days.

“We were very happy with the sale, particularly in these uncertain times,” he said.

“The early rams were making between $4000 and $5000.”

The McGauchie family provided a barbecue lunch between the day’s inspection and auction.

Elizabeth McGauchie and Andrea Boudville (top) at Terrick West sale last week, Ross McGauchie (below) and auctioneer Ross Milne in action. LH PHOTOS

Top figure achieved twice in one day

Rod Vearing, Roly Coutts and John McGrath discuss the lots at the Terrick West sale. LH PHOTO

A TOP price of $5500 was paid twice at last Friday’s Kedleston Park Stud on-property ram sale.

Principal John Humbert said the result from the clearance of 50 rams had been most pleasing, describing the offering as his best ever. ““We also had four other rams sell at $5000 or better on the day,” he said.

Most buyers were regular clients of the stud and the average price at this year’s sale was $2551, up about $200 on 2020.

The two top-selling rams were purchased by Vearing Nominees, Mooney’s Gap near Ararat.

Lot three was the first to hit the top price - a 15-month-old ram with a 16.3 micron fleece, standard deviation of 2.7 mi-

cron, a co-efficient of variation of 16.6 per cent and comfort factor of 99.8 per cent.

The ram was in the top one per cent on the Australian Sheep Breeding Values for Merino Production Index at 182 and on the Dual Purpose index at 169.

Lot 20 - a 14-month-old ram with an 18.2 micron fleece with an SD of 3.0, a CV of 16.5 and CF of 99.7 - matched the top price.

John said new client, Gadava Farms, Euroa, had put a floor in prices for the mid-range of rams as it purchased 11 rams on the day. He said the sale had come on top of “a pretty good season at the show too”.

Many returning buyers were from the Carisbrook and Clunes areas.

16 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021

SHEEP MARKET THERE was a modest increase in numbers to 12,500 head at Bendigo this week as the turn-off of new season lambs slowly builds.

About half the yarding comprised of young unshorn lambs, although a considerable percentage of this stock was made up of lighter store lambs sent down fro southern NSW. The actual supply of well-finished slaughter lambs remained limited.

The market was dearer with additional gains of $10 to $30/head recorded for any export and trade lambs that showed reasonable finish.

A shortage of export weight stock pushed the heaviest old lambs to a top of $357 and heavy new season lambs to $306, which is the first time this saleyard has sold young lambs above $300/head.

New season lambs were keenly supported. Two pens of export weighted young lambs made $304 and $306/head.

Most of the lead drafts of young lambs were in the heavy trade weight categories and sold from $240 to $290/head.

The best presented pens of young lambs in the 24 to 26kg cwt category averaged $277/head to average just over 1,000c/kg cwt.

The fresher conditioned medium trade weight young lambs made from $210 to $230/head.

The bulk of the young lambs to processors were estimated as costing from 950c to 1,050c/kg cwt.

One agency offered some big lines of crossbred and Merino store lambs out of the southern Riverina regions of Hay, Deniliquin and Barooga.

Offered in runs of up to 900 head, they mostly sold from $140 to $179 returning to the paddock, with very small and im-

mature Merino lambs making from $119 to $130/head. There was store buying activity from Ballarat, Swan Hill and the local area.

Any old season lambs with weight and reasonable fat cover received strong support from meat buyers.

Export lambs sold to $357/head with sales estimated around 1,000c/kg, making them the highest price points this market has recorded for such heavy stock. The main run of heavy old lambs weighing 26 to 30kg cwt, sold from $275 to $296/head to also reach an average cost of 1,000c/kg cwt.

The only part of the sale which had some flat spots was secondary trade weight lambs that lacked finish and decent skins, with some categories cheaper selling from $165 to $195/head.

Competition for sheep intensified, with a NSW exporter back operating after skipping the market last week due to COVID-19.

Sheep prices generally lifted by $10 to $30/head. A pen of super-sized crossbred ewes topped at $296, while most heavy mutton made from $180 to $250/head for an estimated range of 650c to 720c/ kg cwt.

SUCKERS A & C Branson Colbinabbin (40) $306, Kenton Park Barrakee (15) $304, P & B Meighan Mitiamo (70) $294, T & M Roulston Yarrawalla (20) $285, G & C McKinnon Pyramid Hill (77) $283, BD & S Cail Kamarooka (30) $281, Ryan Gerard St Arnaud (67) $280, DR Collins & Partners Bridgewater (64) $278, T & K Campbell Macorna (37) $272, Ryan Gerard St Arnaud (50) $268, PC & LM Cockayne Mathoura (74) $265, O’Sullivan Farms Goornong (38) $252, Jenharwill Bailing Hunter (14) $249, K & P Jones Wycheproof (20) $241, S & R Snelson Tongala (69) $240, Richmond Park Echuca (43) $230, SM & KL Coutts Boort (32) $228, S & D Edelsten Kooloonong (69) $220, CJ & HA Glenn & RJ & KL Eade Mathoura (44) $220.00.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

Longlea $2117.43, K & M Smirk Heathcote $1837.55, Mark Barri Heathcote $1776. Cows: J Page Longlea $2189.50, A & M Conforti Mia Mia $2059.12. Heifers: Mark Barri Heathcote $2400, A &M Conforti Mia Mia $1690.50.

Derby Downs Poll Dorsets Marong (31) $357, RA & A Weston Korong Vale (26) $347, Peter Moyle Huntly (17) $329, S & L Carless Moliagul (28) $322, BC & GL Vinnicombe Barham (23) $320, Merrifield Partners P/L Raywood (10) $318, B & F Moon Pyramid Hill (120) $312, MM Davis Sutton Grange (71) $286, OST Moama Moama (62) $282, Figtree Luc P/L Koyuga (29) $275, HW McKnight Maldon (38) $272, NW & ER Davis Sutton Grange (9) $268, RW & NA McKenzie Rochester (12) $266, T & J Speer Corop (21) $265, Oakvale Nulliwal (27) $260, RK Payne King Island (29) $256, Demeo Raywood (16) $254, LD & MS Harrison Wycheproof (39) $239, WJ Whatley Goornong (17) $234, Nutbyrne P/L Knowsley (58) $227.

REPORT SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

GRAIN BOORT Grain Co-op prices at Tuesday.

MERINO LAMBS

Wheat - H1: $317 FOT. H2: $317 FOT. APW1: $317 FOT. ASW: $317 FOT. Barley - PL1 247 FOT. SP1 $247 FOT. BAR1: $247 FOT. Oilseeds/pulses - FABA1 $338.

FABA 2 $3218. New crop - Non-GM canola: $816 +/AOF. Faba beans No1 $360.

CJ & KM Holt Logan (62) $278, MD & PP Connors Echuca (51) $267, DN & MJ Curnow Laanecoorie (251) $251, Demeo Raywood (49) $204.

MERINO WETHERS C,DJ & SD Chamberlain Bridgewater (10) $250.

Three sites for field days

MERINO EWES Merrifield Partners P/L Raywood (61) $249, TW McCormick & Sons, Elmore (8) $249, Ettrick Farms Serpentine (78) $238, JM Hiscock & Sons Pyalong (72) $231, G & V Baldwin Gre Gre (30) $228, MD Connors Moama (44) $223, O’Sullivan Trading Elmore (144) $220, RW & NA Chalmers Mysia (56) $216, Ettershank Past Cobramunga (76) $215, Jackson Ag P/L Beazleys Bridge (51) $205, HL Naylor Cohuna (166) $202, Farley Family Trust Derrinal (94) $198, Andshara Family Trust Berrimal (44) $193, Trella Farms Birchip (19) $189.

BIRCHIP Cropping Group’s main field day planned for next month will be run over three sites for the first time.

Senior manager of research James Murray said: “We have some pertinent research being undertaken at Watchupga with each site chosen to ensure our research is rigorously tested over different spoil types, paddock histories, weed burdens and farming systems.

“When growers come to field days they expect to be able to visually see different treatments and at this year’s BCG Main Field Day. “There are chemistry trials at the south site including BCG’s herbicide matrix which will draw considerable interest,” he said.

CROSSBRED EWES A & C Branson Colbinabbin (29) $296, Kerr Farm P/L Raywood (48) $250, JM Hiscock & Sons Pylong (70) $246, RK Payne King Island (29) $225, BC & SL Vinnecombe Barham (18) $222, RJ & LJ Mitchell Tennyson (19) $195.

CATTLE The fortnightly sale saw 70 head come forward. Competition and prices were very good .

Steers reached a top of $5 per kilo , Trade cattle sold to a top of $5 and cows reached $3.00 per kilo.

Steers: A & M Conforti Mia Mia $2775. Vealers: J Page

WOOL THE Australian wool market has continued to trend downwards, with losses experienced again last week. according to the Elders report.

The previous week’s market falls discouraged many sellers, pushing the national offering down to 34,425 bales.

From the outset it was again immediately apparent that the market was tracking downward, further denting buyer confidence, pushing prices lower.

The price reductions were mainly felt on the first day of selling.

The individual merino fleece Micron Price Guides (MPGs) dropped by 20 to 102 cents for the day.

Fremantle only required the one day of selling as only 4088 bales were on offer for the week, after 58.2 per cent of the offering was passed in, only 1,707 bales were sold, this was the lowest weekly sold figure since AWEX records began (1997/98).

The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) lost 40 cents for the day. These large falls prompted many sellers to withdraw their wool from the second day,

pushing the second day offering well below expected quantities, this combined with a high passed in rate (24.2 per cent nationally for the day) reduced supply, prompting an increased buyer demand on the wool that remained.

As a result, the market steadied. The movements in the MPGs in Sydney and Melbourne ranged between -10 and +20 cents.

The EMI finished the day three cents higher. The EMI lost 37 cents for the series, closing at 1335 cents, a fall of 2.7 per cent.

As the AUD also tracked downward (the AUD lost a full US cent when compared to last week) the loss in USD terms was 55 US cents or four per cent.

As there is traditionally not a lot of shearing occurring in the West at this time of year, this week is a non-sale week in Fremantle.

This fact, combined with the fall in prices in this series, has pushed the national offering lower. 32,337 bales are currently on offer, with only Sydney and Melbourne in operation.

PRICE TRACKER

Loddon HERALD FREE EVERY THURSDAY \

Circulating throughout communities in the Loddon Shire loddonherald@gmail.com or Phone 0419549743

Managing Editor - Chris Earl ADVERTISING DEADLINES Display advertising bookings - 5pm Friday prior Display advertising artwork - 5pm Monday prior Classified advertising - 4pm Tuesday prior NEWS AND SPORT 5pm Monday prior The Loddon Herald is published by Muso’s Media Pty Ltd, PO Box 1188, Kangaroo Flat, 3555, and printed for the pulishers by Newsprinters Pty Ltd McKoy Street, West Wodonga, VIC 3690

www.loddonherald.com.au

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021 | 17

Loddon HERALD CLASSIFIEDS Deadline - Tuesdays 4pm - Phone 0419 549 743 or email loddonherald@gmail.com DEATH NOTICES

BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES

EMPLOYMENT

BROWN, Kevin Roy 17.01.1949 - 13.08.2021 Passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family.

Supportive and devoted father of Glennen (dec.), Everlyn and Michael. Much loved by his grandchildren, great grandchildren, mates and everyone who knew him Forever a Legend Always in our hearts

PUBLIC NOTICES

Louise STALEY MP LIBERAL MEMBER FOR RIPON

Shadow Treasurer | Shadow Minister for Economic Development LouiseStaley.com.au

CAREERS AT LODDON Located in a unique and wonderful part of Central Victoria, about 175 kilometres northwest of Melbourne, Loddon Shire is home to over 7500 residents, and supports a vibrant and growing agribusiness and horticulture sector.

Our vision is to be a prosperous, vibrant and engaged community and we deliver a broad range of programs and services to enhance the sustainability and liveability for the community.

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

LouiseStaleyRipon

Community Care Workers – ref.J/102

LouiseStaley Authorised by Louise Staley MP, 177 High Street, Maryborough 3465. Funded from Parliamentary Budget.

  

Casual position Band 3 - $35.80 per hour inclusive of casual loading Location – Shire-wide

Community Care Workers – ref. J/105 Permanent, part-time roles – range of hours available  Band 3 - $28.64 per hour  Location – Shire-wide 

Statutory Planning Coordinator – ref.J/100   

Permanent, either part-time or full-time Salary negotiable Location – Wedderburn office with some opportunity to work remotely Applications for the positions above will be assessed as they are received.

Grader Operator (Loddon Plains) – ref. no J/111

Reno inspires local produce THE Loddon Larder in Inglewood’s main street, Brooke Street, is an eclectic little shop focusing on the holistic, healing, spiritual approach.

Gaylia Bell sells therapeutic teas, native Australian spices and herbs, essential oils, incences, candles, homemade jams and sauces. Eucalyptus oils and products, local honey, Rawleighs and giftware.

“I love helping, working and chatting with people who want to look at life with a more holistic, open approach,” Gaylia says.

Loddon Larder opened just before COVID hit. Gaylia has owned the building for 30 years where it was

originally run as a drapery. The shop had been vacant for seven years and was in serious need of renovations.

“I was inspired to get them done

by Carey in Horseworld which then inspired me to keep going and consequently Loddon Larder was born,” Gaylia said.

Permanent full-time position with 9-day fortnight  GOCOM – Grader Operator on Commencement - $36.10 per hour  Location – Loddon Plains (north end of Shire) 

EMPLOYMENT

Harvest Casuals Southern Stockfeeds located in Bridgewater-on-Loddon requires casual staff for harvest period.

Roles include general labouring, grain sampling and testing and weighbridge operations.

Reliability and a team player are essential attributes to join our staff.

Local Laws/Animal Control Officer – ref. no J/110   

Early Childhood Educator (Boort) – ref. no J/112   

Must be prepared to do shift work and work weekends

Community Project Officer/Engineer ref.no J/109   

The last book of the Bible is a prophetic vision given to the apostle John 2000 years ago.

This book needs to be read and wherever possible understood

CLASSIFIEDS CONNECT COMMUNITIES

Permanent full-time position Band 6 - $42.67 per hour Location – Wedderburn Office

Community Project Development Coordinator (two positions) – ref.no J/113

Resumes and cover letters to be sent to employment@southernstockfeeds.com.au

REVELATION

Part-time position – 21.75 hours per week EEEA Level 1.1 - $21.06 per hour Location – Boort Kindergarten

Applications for the above positions will close on Monday 30 August 2021.

Own transportation and licence preferred.

Previous experience working on a storage site would be looked favorably but not essential.

Permanent full-time position Band 4 - $32.14 per hour Location – Wedderburn Office

  

Full-time, fixed-term positions (two years) Band 7 - $47.53 per hour Location – Wedderburn Office

Applications for the above positions will close on Monday 06 September 2021.

For further information in regard to these positions including a detailed position description please visit Council’s website www.loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Organisational Development Unit on (03) 5494 1202.

ADVERTISE IN THE DIRECTORY - $66 A MONTH. PHONE 0419549743

18 | Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021

SPORT

Time of improvement A DROUGHT-BREAKING win and a few weeks sitting in the top half of the North Central league football ladder has given Boort a foundation for further improvement.

Coach Andrew Hawker says the season was certainly one of improvement for the Pies.

There was the long pre-season - preparations for lifting the fortunes of the Pies started before the 2020 season was aborted

by COVID restrictions and lockdowns.

And while only notching up three victories in the stop-start 2021 rounds, Hawker is adamant there is plenty of room for the Pies to continue a return to good fortunes.

“The season was very difficult and will be going forward just to keep people involved,” he said.

“We want some success so that is our driver.”

Hawker said game style, fitness and skills had let the Pies down a little this season.

“We improved a lot. Having said that just when we started to get going it stopped each time,” Hawker said.

“There is plenty of improvement left in this group.”

The Pies’ coach said the drought-breaking win over Donald had been important.

Coming 1044 days since last savouring success on the senior football field, Hawker said it “showed the group we can achieve when we play a certain way”.

“The draw didn’t fall our way but no excuses. We dropped a couple I thought we could win which ultimately let us down ... definitely a hint of what could come,” Hawker said.

“Lockdowns hurt us but let’s look forward.”

Hawker said the off-season had started early for the senior group but “we have reserves and 16s in finals so we will look to support them as well as our net-

Boort coach Andrew Hawker reflects on the Pies’ improvement in 2021 and (below) the team in action against Wedderburn. LH PHOTOS ballers”. “We will still get back into action earlier and try to build a fitness base a bit earlier next year,” he said.

“We are a very happy group off field so I expect most to stay and look forward to adding a couple of extras that we have identified we need to find,” Hawker said.

Boort’s under 16 side finished the season undefeated and two games clear of Sea Lake Nandaly.

The reserves finished third with six wins in the home and away season.

VINCENT Kai trained at Inglewood by Grant Innes is set to run in Race 7 at Maryborough today.

Although awkwardly drawn, Vincent has been very consistent in his last five starts, with two thirds and a fourth and with a little luck should be in the finish again.

Glengarriff, a four-year-old trotter owned in Wedderburn by Gavan Holt and trained at Moonlight Flats by Jo Franklin, has been in top form recently with two wins and two seconds from his last four starts.

Glengarriff is racing at Ballarat tomorrow night in Race 6 No 9 at 8.30pm.

St Arnaud trainer Denis McIntyre is enjoying a great run of success with his small stable.

His team has had three wins and a second recently.

Dot the Eye and Captain Pins have both won at Maryborough recently and Puzzle Piece ran second and Captain Pins won at Bendigo last Friday night.

Harness Racing will be held at Wedderburn on September 12, but unfortunately no spectators are allowed at this stage.

I guess the Scotchman’s Hill might have a few people doing exercise on that day and sneaking a look at the horses in action at Donaldson Park.

The Loddon Herald welcomes Trevor as an occasional sports columnist on harness happenings across the Loddon. His knowledge and experience in the industry is much recognised and appreciated. Our readers look forward to following the fortunes of local harness racing drivers and owners.

IN BRIEF Presentation plans LOCAL football and netball clubs in the Loddon Valley and North Central leagues are hoping to hold their season vote counts and presentation events next month.

Clubs have told the Loddon Herald that dates and formats may now need to be changed depending on latest COVID restrictions.

The only confirmed date is for Inglewood on September 12.

20 on the courts LAST week’s Boort badminton competition had 20 players take to the courts. Winners were Sanat Thomas, David Meadows and Cameron McLaughlin.

Rally cancelled INGLEWOOD Riding Club was forced to cancel its planned rally on Sunday.

The event was again featuring David Mellor talking on the riders building a happy relationship with their horse.

Email your sports news and results to loddonherald@gmail.com by 4pm Mondays

Loddon HERALD Thursday August 26, 2021 | 19

SPORT KARA KARA ASSOCIATION SHIELD DAY Honours go to host club Kara Kara Association ladies’ shield and association day was held at Wedderburn last Thursday.

The course was in great condition with perfect conditions for golf.

Host club Wedderburn took honours in the shield scratch event. The Chic Morgan teams event was won by Sandra Steel, Glenda Bird and Carolyn McHugh.

Nearest the pins: 5th Sandra Stanfield, 7th Jill Millie, 13th Julie McLennan, 17th Jenny Lovel.

PICTURED (clockwise from right): 1. Shield scratch winners Wedderburn (S Lockhart, Shirley Postle, Jill Millie, Glenda Bird and Sandra Steel) with 448 followed by Donald 463, Charlton 465, St Arnaud 472, Boort 476, Wycheproof 504 and Birchip 516 2. Association event handicap winners: A Grade H Hogan, C Grade Beth Thompson, B Grade Sue Anne Beattie.

3. Veteran Winner - Jenny Lovel 4. Shield handicap winners Wycheproof (Sue Anne Beattie, Andrea Coatsworth, Beth Thompson, Cheryl Rayes, Julie McLennan) 368 followed

by Wedderburn 376, Charlton and Boort 382, St Arnaud 392, Birchip 396, Donald 39 5. Association event scratch Winners - B Grade Lyn Boyle, A Grade Di Johnston, C Grade Phyl Baker.

sport SCRAMBLE ON

Loddon HERALD

Thursday August 26, 2021

LOCKDOWNS PUT SEASON IN BALANCE AS LEAGUES ...

By CHRIS EARL

‘

WINTER sporting competitions are in a scramble to conclude their COVIDdisrupted seasons.

We just wanted the weekend games to be played ... it would have

‘

The first week of Loddon Valley finals was abruptly abandoned Friday night when the State Government request not to play became a Health Department directive less than two hours later.

And with a resumption of community sport unlikely until after September 4 as country Victoria endures Lockdown 7.0, the league is left with possibly just two weeks to play finals.

President Simon Tuohey said clubs wanted to season concluded as soon as possible.

Tuohey said there appeared little appetite among clubs to extend the finals’ campaign in October.

The weekend’s abandoned elimination and qualifying finals increases the likelihood of the league now adopting a final four for the season.

“It’s frustrating. We just wanted the weekend games to be played ... it would have given us flexibility for the finals’ series,” Tuohey said.

“The messages started coming Friday night and very quickly we were told there could be no games. There was a frenetic change in dynamic in a short period and that put a lot of pressure on the volunteers who are the clubs and the league.”

The league is possibly left with just two weekends to play finals - semi-finals on September 11 and 12 with the grand finals

It’s frustrating.

given us

flexibility for the finals’ series

Simon Tuohey Loddon Valley league president

on September 18. Bears Lagoon Serpentine, who had been scheduled to play Pyramid Hill in Sunday’s elimination final, would be out of the race before taking the ground.

A semi-final in football would see top-placed Mitiamo pitched against Pyramid Hill and Marong taking on Bridgewater, the winners straight into the grand final, originally allocated to Maiden Gully for September 11.

While crowds had already been barred from country sport-

ing matches, Tuohey said finals’ host clubs had taken another hit to their revenue in the disrupted season.

“Clubs have lost home games because of lockdowns and restrictions, crowds have not been allowed in recent weeks ... it all has an impact on our volunteer clubs,” he said.

Tuohey said the Loddon Valley league board continued to meet and monitor restrictions and discuss options to finish the 2021 season.

Board assesses the options NORTH Central league board was meeting last night to review options to complete their disrupted season.

Mid-way through a two-week break before finals introduced to maximise opportunity for Melbourne-based players to play, the new country lockdown has forced the need for review.

President Tim Lockhart said

the league remained committed to completing the season for football, netball and hockey competitions.

The first week of finals had been re-scheduled to September 4 and 5.

Options include playing semifinals on one weekend and delaying a start to finals with a grand final in October.

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