Loddon Herald 27 July 2023

SHATTERED SERENITY

I JUST can’t fathom it - words repeated over and over by Jez Kalloway since his pet Jack Russell terriers Sassy and Buzz jumped into a ute travelling a quiet Loddon bush road.

The dogs “always keen for adventure” were later found dumped, dead, 6km away beside the Wimmera Highway.

“They were with me in the yard where I had a fire burning, they heard a car door open and ran down ... I saw their little legs jumping in and the ute speed off,” said Jaz on the verandah of his Moliagul home a week after the Sunday morning dog snatch.

“They loved adventure. If they heard me jingle the car keys, they were beside themselves.

“I still can’t fathom it,” Jez says again. “We live right at the end of a road and we’re lucky to see a couple of cars a day ... people don’t have a reason to come on this road.”

Leading Senior Constable Mick Balazs, of Bridgewater police, says: “There was no need to kill them. There’s no rhyme or reason as they weren’t stolen to breed or to keep someone company.”

He arranged for the RSPCA to collect the bodies of Sassy and Buzz from Jez’s home on Monday. An autopsy will be determine the cause of death.

Senior Constable Balazs is continuing investigations and has again called for public assistance in finding a white utility that may have been used

By CHRIS EARL

in the dog snatch. “It’s really concerning that something like this has happened. I have never struck it before,” he said.

Jez moved to Moligaul from Geelong three years ago for the serenity of bushland overlooking Kooyora State Park. “It’s a beautiful place for solitude.”

“I got Sassy soon after for company and then Buzz six months ago,” he said.

Thanks to friends, Jez already has a new companion. He’s called the Jack Russell terrier Nuggy. “That’s short for nugget and hoping I might find (a gold) one, one day,” Jez said.

And Senior Constable Balazs has also told Jez of an offer of a pup from a litter born last week in Avoca.

“There’s a bit of light at the end of the rainbow,” Jez said, cradling his new friend Nuggy.

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Jez Kalloway with new companion Nuggy after his pet dogs Sassy and Buzz (left) were snatched on a quiet bush road and dumped dead beside the Wimmera Highway.

LH PHOTO

WHAT is tradition? Bradley of Boort has gone for the deep and meaningful message on his Treemendous Sign this week. He’s says tradition is peer pressure from the dead. Is this his way of letting people be free and unshackled spirits?

WE NOTICED one volunteer goal umpire at the weekend who certainly fitted that category with a gavel-waving style of the flags in a junior footy match. Visual appearances had him doing a better job as replacement for Luckless Grills a couple of weeks earlier who was certainly asserting peer pressure on the field umpires (as tactfully reported in OTF at the time).

LUCKLESS Grills might avoid peer pressure if he lives to a grand old age. A reporter was interviewing a 104-year-old woman and asked “And what do you think is the best thing about being 104?” She simply replied, “No peer pressure.”

WE WERE glad to stumble across one young mother in the weekend football meandering around the Loddon. She was sipping on a latte coffee. “Last night it was the gin ... a natural progression to coffee the next day,” she quipped, encouraging others to make it a fad. No pressure!

BEING smack bang in the middle of kangaroo country, this peer pressure anecdote will get a few chuckles. Why did the first koala fall out the tree? It was dead. Why did the second koala fall out the tree? It got hit by the first koala. Why did the third koala fall out the tree? Thought it was a race to the bottom. Why did the fourth koala fall out of the tree? Peer pressure. Why did the kangaroo die? Got hit by four koalas.

CHATTING to the Cockerell last week and he was certainly not going to give into peer pressure when The Oracle was charting a cross-country trip from Newbridge to Charlton. “He wants to go up backroads, dirt tracks and traverse paths not travelled since the days of Cobb and Co. I’ve told him, the fastest way is into Inglewood and up the highway.” We hear The Oracle buckled with all the ease being displayed by his beloved St Kilda.

AND to finish this week, there’s been a report about the departed Bill Collins, the weather forecasting spider, still haunting the inaccurate barometer of the BOM. The pressure could become too much for our official forecasters!

PUB’S NEW MANAGERS The community-owned Railway Hotel in Dingee has new publicans with former dairy farmer Mick Kerkman and wife Tabitha taking on management of the enterprise that re-opened last year. Mick has also been a truck driver and part of the support crew for singer Daryl Braithwaite when he performed at the Melbourne Cup and Neil Young on his concert tours. Mick, pictured with son Kody and Tabitha, said: “I had been working in a hotel in Lismore learning the ropes of pubs while looking around for an opportunity to run our own. We liked the Dingee pub because its owned by the community, it’s got character and is a great little country pub.” LH PHOTO

Councils get Active message

RURAL local government leaders have been told a healthy and resilient agricultural sector fostered a sense of community and wellbeing among farming families.

The message came from Bridgewater Active Farmers’ leader Claire Harrison in a presentation to this month’s Rural

Councils Victoria annual forum in Echuca.

Loddon Mayor Dan Straub and councillors joined local government representatives from across the state.

Other key speakers highlighted the need for collaboration between councils to amplify their work and voice.

IN BRIEF

Voice ‘radical’

Ministers avoid glare

AGRICULTURE Minister Gayle

Tierney has been accused of an “under the radar” Loddon visit to avoid meeting local farmers protesting State Government plans for a 500 kiloVolt transmission line through the shire.

Ms Tierney, whose Upper House seat includes half the Loddon Shire, used social media to announce a visit she made to Calivil last week.

Her visit came in the same week Regional Development Minister Harriet Shing made a last-minute withdrawal from a scheduled stop in Boort.

Loddon Mayor Dan Straub said it was disappointing ministers were not engaging local communities on issues of concern.

Victorian Farmers’ Federation Wedderburn branch president Graham Nesbit on Monday was one of just three delegates to the VFF annual conference in Melbourne to put a question to Ms Tierney after her opening address.

“I’ve invited her to come and meet us to address the VNI West

issue and tell us what this renewable energy transition will look like for regional Victoria,”

The VFF has been critical of Ms Tierney for her lack of engagement with the agricultural community on VNI West plans.

Cr Straub said last Wednesday’s visit by Ms Shing had been cancelled the previous day.

“There are many issues in the Loddon Shire - VNI West, roads,

future of water, child care. We need ministers and the Premier himself to come, talk and listen,” Cr Straub said,

Ms Tierney also declined the Loddon Herald invitation to speak at the Your Energy Future forum in Wedderburn in May.

When asked this week if they would meet Loddon landowners to discuss VNI West, both ministers replied: “Over recent weeks, the CEO and representatives of VicGrid have attended community sessions and met with landowners in relation to VNI West. Transmission planning and infrastructure matters should be directed to the Minister for Energy and Resources.”

In identical responses, they said: “We’re boosting local production across northern Victoria, backing more employment opportunities and skills growth.”

However, Ms Shing said: “I look forward to a future visit, as I continue to meet with communities, businesses and locals across rural and regional Victoria.”

Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh

Fee motion fizzles at first move

MOVES to grant a 12-month fee waiver on footpath permit fees quickly fizzled around a depleted Loddon Shire Council table on Tuesday.

Cr Wendy Murphy failed to gain a seconder for her notice of motion lodged after backlash from traders to council’s letter a fortnight ago on compliance to display shop signs and goods and new fees.

With councillors Neil Beattie and Gavan Holt out of the council chamber - both declared a conflict of interest in the motion - the council table was left with a bareminimum quorum.

And with governance rules not allowing Mayor Dan Straub to second the motion, it was left to Cr Linda Jungwirth who told the meeting she would not support the motion. Cr Straub then declared the motion had lapsed after failing to obtain a seconder.

When Cr Jungwirth wanted to later ex-

plain her reasons for opposing the move, Cr Straub said the opportunity for debate has passed.

Under new fees, some traders are facing a 200 per cent hike to continue with footpath displays.

Cr Murphy said her motion was to have allowed traders time to budget for the expense and comply with regulations.

Council’s operations director Steven Phillips and local laws and planning compliance officer David Price are to meet with Inglewood Development and Tourism Committee tonight.

“All shop owners or interested parties are invited to attend to ask questions or listen to the background of the recent letter from council regarding displays and furniture positioning on footpaths, the Disability Discrimination Act and permits and fees,” said secretary Pauline Wellman.

said: “This government is doing everything it can to avoid transparency and, as always, responsibility. There are big issues confronting rural and regional Victoria right now, they’re deliberately going out of their way to avoid questions, to avoid scrutiny, simply tells us there is more bad news to come from this shambles of a government.”

“Ministers can try and keep running, but they can’t hide forever,” he said. “(They are) absolute cowards when it comes to facing the Victorian people to be held accountable for their actions.”

“The public, and on its behalf, the media, should be given access every time these government leaders book a public and or industry event,” Mr Walsh said.

Ms Tierney said: “As Minister for Agriculture, my role involves attending many events across Victoria and sometimes media may not be in attendance.”

The Loddon Herald was not alerted to Ms Tierney’s visit last week.

MALLEE MP Anne Webster said the proposed Voice was the most radical change considered to the Constitution since World War Two. “It is a step towards co-government and co-sovereignty,” Dr Webster said last week as the official Yes and No cases for the referendum this year were released.

Care briefing

LODDON Shire has received a confidential briefing about State Government commitments to build a child care centre in the shire. Wellbeing director Wendy Gladman said: “The decision of location and timing for the service in Loddon, and the subsequent announcement of same, is the responsibility of the State Government.”

Jazzy lunch

REGULARS at Inglewood’s community lunch had an extra treat yesterday. They were greeted to the sounds of Seven Plus 4 Jazz Band performing at the town hall hub. More ‘new’ for owners NEW owners of the Newbridge Store, Nic and Kasey Davis have kept the celebrations going with the birth of daughter Chelsea. The store is a pickup point for the Loddon Herald and our delivery driver Enzo Scafati also delivered flowers last week to help Nic and Kasey celebrate the birth.

PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION

Community Forum in St Arnaud

Landowner Rights with the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner

Northern Grampians Shire Council and the St Arnaud Branch of the Victorian Farmers Federation are hosting a community forum with the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner, Mr Andrew Dyer.

The Commissioner's role is an independent adviser to the Australian Government on matters relating to community concerns about renewable energy and transmission infrastructure development.

Mr Dyer is not the transmission planner or the approval authority but has made himself available to answer questions regarding agriculture and environmental impacts, emergency management, biosecurity and landowner rights.

St Arnaud Town Hall 4:30pm for 5:00pm start Monday 31 July 2023

No bookings are required, all are welcome.

A guide of Considerations for Landholders before entering into Commercial Agreements and the Commissioner's 2022 Annual Report both include valuable information for landowners and can be found at: https://www.aeic.gov.au/

Gayle Tierney

A message from

Transmission Company Victoria

Electricity is an essential service. It allows us to live comfortable and productive lives.

But getting electricity to millions of homes and workplaces across Victoria is neither simple nor easy.

The VNI West project will see 200 kilometres of transmission built in Victoria, to improve connection of the local grid to New South Wales.

As old coal-fired power stations close, adding VNI West to our existing transmission network will help keep the lights on across Victoria.

It will allow more renewable energy into our grid, including hydroelectricity from the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

The project has been in the news lately, as Transmission Company Victoria (TCV) talks to communities and landholders about where the transmission should be built.

Unfortunately, there has been some information in the community that has caused confusion and anxiety. Particularly around an initial $10,000 payment being o ered to impacted landholders.

This $10,000 payment is recognition of the time landholders who work with TCV will spend discussing and considering access and potential impacts on their property. The fee will be paid as part of an initial land access agreement, regardless of whether or not transmission is built on that property.

At this stage we do not know exactly where the transmission line will be built. And we won’t know until we work with landholders and the community to identify the best location.

As we move forward with VNI West, TCV’s commitment to the community is to have up-front conversations, to listen, and to treat people fairly.

As we identify where the transmission line needs to be built, and which landholders will be impacted, we will treat them with respect and pay fair compensation.

Following on from our community information sessions, TCV wants to keep talking to members of the community and gathering important information.

Our representatives are available on the phone to answer questions. And our landholder guide is available to be downloaded.

Please visit www.transmissionvictoria.com.au for more information, or call TCV on 1800 824 221

Card cut hits veterans

VETERANS could face health care discrimination unless the Federal Government bridges the gap on rebates.

One Loddon medical clinic says the Department of Veterans’ Affairs will now only refund veterans the full rebate amount for their first visit.

Inglewood’s Adrienne Mackintosh has held a DVA Gold Card since the death of her Vietnam veteran husband in 2001.

Adrienne first experienced the new rebate system when visiting Marong Medical Centre in Inglewood.

Her advocacy has since seen the clinic bulk bill Gold Card patients but she wants the Government to remove the anomaly between DVA and Medicare rebates.

“Gold Cards are given discerningly, in appreciation of extreme service for fighting for your country and often passed on to the widow or widower,” she said.

“When being awarded, recipients were informed they would not have to pay anything (for health care).”

Marong Medical Centre has now decided to continue bulk billing of DVA patients but fears that may not be sustainable in the long term.

“(We) fervently hope that DVA does not discriminate against our veterans, as compared to regular Medicare patients. Our practice has decided to try and wear this loss, but with current general practice rebates, and the Medicare freeze having caused us to already have our backs to the wall, we do wonder how we will be able to keep wearing these losses in the long term,” the centre said.

Marong Medical Centre said medical practices in the area had extensive conversations around adding a “gap fee”.

“We took this hard decision in April

Whisky the go-go as agency shuts

MARK Lacey attended to final bookwork in the minutes before Bendigo Bank closed its Pyramid Hill agency at midday last Thursday.

The long-time agency owner had wellwishers calling as the end of an era drew to close, joined just moments before midday by two bank representatives.

A bottle of Chivas Regal blended whisky and a card envelope were handed to Mark by bank representatives before cash was counted at the Kelly Street premises for the final time.

Pyramid Hill is one of at least 17 agencies being clowsd by the bank. Decreased transactions have been blamed for the decision that leaves the town without a bank.

Geoff and Colleen Hampson were among Pyramid Hill residents to thank Mark for his service through the bank and for the town.

And Geoff is among customers who have now moved accounts to other financial institutions.

Local post office licensee Raeleen

2023, and were one of the last private practices in the region to do so.

“We have been in discussions with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and were informed that medical practices can charge DVA patients private fees.

“We have since found out DVA will not refund the veterans the rebate amount, like Medicare does, except for their first visit.

“This led to DVA card holders not being rebated by DVA , except for the one visit.

“Once we were told this, we took a decision to bulk bill our DVA card holders for the near future, and are now hoping for more clarification around rebates for patients, promised in November.

“This has been done as a mark of respect for our veterans, and we are unable to understand why while Medicare rebates patients, DVA does not.”

Mallee MP Anne Webster said the Government needed to refocus on the priority issues for Australians such as the cost of living crisis which was having a major impact on the veterans’ community.

“The Government has become so preoccupied with peripheral issues such as the Voice, and have taken their eye of the ball when it comes to escalating costs, and cuts in services,” she said.

“The Government has said they will be releasing draft legislation later this year that is a direct result of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, established and funded by the previous Coalition Government. While that bill is an opportunity to reform rebates, the Government is able to act now and address the level of rebates provided to medical providers.

“This issue needs urgent attention. The Government needs to stop its dilly-dallying and refocus on the issues that matter to our local communities.”

She questions had been lodged seeking answers from the government about which providers are having to withdraw or scale-back veteran services because of the insufficient rebate – and where they are located. “As of last week, the government was yet to provide detailed answers.”

Ms Mackintosh said the gesture of Marong Medical Centre was appreciated but called on the Government to better honour veterans and end the anomaly between Gold Card and Medicare rebates that had caused distress to Gold Card holders.

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

Fletcher said: “It will be tough without the bank in town. If we were all to close at 2pm and not open again until Monday ... that’s what small towns can become when services are lost.”

“The bank’s been a service, an option, a choice and people will miss that.”

While banking facilities are available at the post office, residents now face a $2000 daily transaction limit for each card.

Raeleen said there had been increased foot traffic at the Pyramid Hill post office since Bendigo Bank’s April announcement to close the agency.

LATE NEWS Satisfaction dips to 10-year low

LODDON Shire’s satisfaction rating has dropped to its lowest level in a decade, according to the annual satisfaction survey released late Tuesday morning.

Dissatisfaction with the state of sealed and unsealed roads, planning and building permits and emergency and disaster management has seen approval of council decline among 400 residents surveyed.

The report said: “Loddon Shire Council’s overall performance experienced a (not significant) three-point decline in 2023 and is now the lowest score seen to date.

“This decline is reflected in significant declines on seven of the 16 individual service areas evaluated. Encouragingly, council’s top three performing service areas (appearance of public areas, recrea-

tional facilities, and waste management) remain as positive as they were in 2022.”

According to the survey, perceptions of council performance had largely deteriorated.

“This is primarily driven by significant declines among residents living in Inglewood/Tarnagulla (Wards). Performance ratings among these residents are the lowest to date across all service areas evaluated,” it said.

“Restoring positive perceptions in this geographic region will be key. Council should also aim to abate the emerging downward trend in perceptions of customer service – early attention here is warranted.

“Council performs as well or significantly higher than the small rural group

and state-wide averages on most service areas evaluated.

“This is a positive result, although council’s performance does lag both the small rural group and state-wide averages significantly on emergency and disaster management and both elderly and family support services.”

Shire CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald said: “Our unsealed road and sealed road network ... were areas of concern for our residents.

“The above average rainfall last year and subsequent flood event in October saw severe damage to our unsealed and sealed road network, which continues to undergo repairs as part of flood recovery.” he said.

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Adrienne Mackintosh

Rebecca Grogan, Raeleen Fletcher, Rhonda Dutton, Mark Lacey, Colleen Hampson, Fiona Moon and Geoff Hampson gather to mark the final minutes of Pyramid Hill’s bank agency. LH PHOTO

A slice of the best

AUSTRALIAN travellers agree ... the vanilla slices at Bridgewater Bakehouse are the best in the land.

The votes of gastronomically-conscious tourists saw the Loddon bakery take out wotif. com’s people’s choice award for Australia’s top vanilla slice, the sweet treat bakery owner Patrick O’Toole says goes hand in hand with a coffee. “It’s our top seller for cakes,” he said.

“The flavouring and consist-

ency of the custard that’s fluffy, the pastry that has a buttery texture and flavour and breaks clean when you take a bite.

“And the icing ... people want their sugar too.”

The famous vanilla slice remains the champion in the Great Vanilla Slice competition too, taking out the prize when the event has been held in 2018 and 2019.

The vanilla slice is one of many tempting cakes made fresh daily by the staff at Bridgewater

Bakehouse and well paired with a freshly-brewed coffee.

Why not then wander down to the banks of the picturesque Loddon River, a delightful setting to relax and enjoy a relaxing day.

Pat, Theresa and staff look forward to welcoming you back to the Bridgewater Bakehouse.

It’s a food experience people keep returning for in Bridgewater.

Career expo helps VCE students pathways

STUDENTS from Boort, Wedderburn and East Loddon attended last week’s VCE careers expo in Charlton.

Tertiary Information Service and supported by the North Central LLEN presented the event that featured presentations about all facets of applying for a tertiary placement, followed by a chance to meet with representatives from universities and key industries including agriculture, local government and mining.

North Central LLEN careers and pathways team leader Jacinta Sutton said the day was a great opportunity

for young people to explore potential careers and pathways.

“With more than a dozen universities in attendance, young people were able to have one-on-one conversations about potential university courses or career pathways,” she said.

The expo was part of North Central LLEN’s school-to-work program supporting access to work-based learning opportunities, so students can develop employability skills and make informed career choices.

A barbecue lunch was prepared by the Charlton Lions Club.

PETER WALSH MP YOUR

Recovery tips on community dinner menu

CLINICAL psychologist and natural disaster recovery and preparedness consultant David Younger will discuss common recovery challenges at a free community dinner in Bridgewater next week.

“The 2022 October storm and flood event saw people across our shire affected by this widespread flooding,” said Loddon Shire’s wellbeing director Wendy Gladman.

“As we continue to see recovery efforts take place, the impacts of the flood event on our communities are still being felt across the region – including fatigue and mental health impacts.

“Through blending storytelling, scientific findings and real life experiences, David will talk about common recovery challenges, along with providing tips and pointers that can help people and their community recover better.”

Mrs Gladman said David had an unwavering commitment to “serving communities and making a difference in the lives of those affected by natural disasters”.

“We encourage our community to come along to this event, as our shire continues its flood recovery journey,” she said.

YOUR VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

We are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours

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.

— but most of all we are a community. coping

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.

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.

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

We are in this together, and together we will get through.

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

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

of We are in this together, and together we will get through.

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

VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

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.

Boort District School VCE students collect career information bags at last week’s expo in Charlton.

Wedderburn’s Conrad Sudgen (left) at the expo.

SAVE LIVES.

SAVE TRIPLE ZERO (000) CALLS FOR EMERGENCIES.

• Your doctor can help if you have a minor injury and illness, need examination, need advice or referral to a specialist.

• Your pharmacist can provide assistance and medicines for minor illness.

• And there’s Nurse-On-Call (1300 60 60 24) for immediate, expert advice, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you need an interpreter, call 131 450 and ask for NURSE-ON-CALL.

So, save triple zero (000) calls and ambulances for emergencies. Find out more at betterhealth.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.

New programs expand service

IN-HOME care services were a great addition to the growing community and allied health area, according to Inglewood and District Health Service clinical and community services director April McKenzie.

Ms McKenzie said IDHS had started delivering Commonwealth Home Support Program and Home and Community Care –Program for Younger People in southern Loddon communities since July 1.

“IDHS has excitedly continued to employ local people to provide these services to the community,” Ms McKenzie said.

IDHS and Boort District Health were named among new service providers after Loddon Shire withdrew following Federal and

State Government reforms in the sector.

Ms McKenzie said IDHS services under the Commonwealth program for people over 65 included personal care providing older people with support to help them maintain appropriate standards of hygiene and grooming and assistance with house cleaning, linen service, unaccompanied shopping, clothes washing and ironing.

The program also assists clients to maintain their home in a safe and habitable condition, services linked to assisting clients to maintain their independence, safety, accessibility and health and wellbeing within the home environment.

“We are also providing for older people with access to meals, these are prepared and delivered to the client’s home or meals provided at a centred or other setting,” she said.

Social group activities and flexible respite are also part of the program.

“IDHS will work with individuals to help them maintain their independence in their own homes,” she said.

She said the HACC-PYP was a program providing support for people under 65 years of age, with disabilities whose capacity for independent living is at risk, including personal care, domestic assistance and respite and property maintenance.

Good books entice young bookworms

LIBRARIES across the Loddon Shire are ready to encourage voracious reading appetites in youngsters.

Goldfields Library Corporation has relaunched its 1000 Books Before School program with children recognised as they thumb their way through hundreds of books.

The corporation services libraries in Boort, Inglewood, Tarnagulla, Wedderburn, Dingee and Pyramid Hill.

Once children have read their first 100 books, they’ll receive a newly-designed reading record

booklet, canvas library bag and a merit patch to stick onto their bag. Other milestone rewards are on offer as young readers head towards 1000 books.

“Enjoying books together is the key. As you read, your child will not only learn to love reading but also learn valuable listening, language, social, emotional and motor skills as they watch and copy you. These vital skills help set them up for success at school and beyond, and happen all while having fun.” said Goldfields Libraries’ programs and events co-ordinator Tammy Higgs.

Raeven Gatton-Watson introduces daughters Audrey and Arya to the enjoyment of reading at Boort’s library, part of the resource and information centre, last week.

IDHS home care workers Kristy Simpson and Suzanne Jackson

RAYWOOD Primary School’s Link Zurkus has been awarded the East Loddon Lions Club junior public speaking competition top prize.

More than 50 people attended Sunday’s finals where judges Reece Collier, Renae Colls and Kaye Leech awarded the Year 5-6 prize to Link for his speech on the set topic of Strange World Records in History. Runner-up was Raywood’s Mia Blake with the achievement award presented to East Loddon P12 College’s Tahlia Smith.

Competition co-ordinator Dan Straub said it was the first time Raywood students had participated in the club’s junior public speaking competition.

In the section for Year 3-4 students with the theme of Oh No You’ve Turned into a Giant, the winner was East Loddon’s Emily Lister with Hazel Phillips, also from East Loddon, runner-up. The achievement award was presented Raywood’s Mia Blake.. Winners will represent East Loddon in the Lions V6 district final.

Link spins top yarn on strange records Marley makes culture swap

YOUTH exchange student Marley Galet has swapped the mountains of Italy for the plains of Loddon for her Year 11 studies.

Marley, from Turin, started last week at East Loddon P12 College where she will study English language, visual communications, agriculture, general maths, biology and chemistry.

She is a horse riding enthusiast and last year won a European under 18 championship.

Marley said she chose Australia for her nine-month exchange as she wanted to travel to a place that she had never visited to experience a different culture. In Italy, Marley attends a science high school and her parents are English teachers. Marley is being hosted by Emma Holland and Laura Harding at Calivil.

Students in the East Loddon Lions’ junior public speaking competition on Sunday.,

Marley Galet

Genetics take value from stud to paddock

TERRICK West Poll Merinos is constantly developing sheep genetics that consistently transfer breed value from the stud to the paddock.

Says studmaster Ross McGauchie: “Our priority is high-volume, high-quality and soft-handling 18 to19 micron wool on large fertile dual-purpose animals – delivering consistent returns in all soil, feed and climate conditions.”

“Our Prairie West stud takes a measured approach to stud breeding, using experience and data to sustainably introduce profitable traits without upsetting the genetic balance of the flock.”

And the award-winning stud is continuing to improve data collection of sale rams.

“We will once again be including

Inspection: From 10AM on day of sale

Auction: 1PM

Offering: 84 rams

2403 EchucaSerpentine Road, Prairie

ASBVs on all sale rams. Full genomics testing of these animals, including poll tests will be available.”

Ross said Terrick West’s large-framed and plain-bodied sires were also critical for many of the stud’s clients joining ewes to Border Leicesters and other terminal sires.

“Terrick West’s consistently bulky and deep-crimping wool ensures ongoing wool clip value in addition

to profitable meat production,” he said. “Our sires consistently produce high volumes of soft handling, deep-crimping wool in the 17 to 19 micron range with high comfort factors – on frames weighing over 100kg still with their lambs teeth.”

Terrick West Stud was founded by Edgar McGauchie and his sons Cyril and Eric in 1932. Today Eric’s son, Ross together with his wife Robyn and daughter Claire manage Terrick

West Poll Merinos. Claire is the fourth generation of McGauchies to help set the vision and direction of Terrick West Poll Merinos.

“We take a balanced approach to innovations that sustainably improve our stud, our flock, our industry and our home,” Ross said.

Terrick West Poll Merino Stud is part of the acclaimed Loddon Valley Merino region which Ross says

stands tall against studs from across Australia.

This was borne out when Terrick West was awarded Australian Champion and Reserve Champion March-shorn Pairs at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show - the first time a stud had ever claimed first and second for consecutive years - as the stud has been again recognised with major titles at major sheep shows.

The Loddon ram sale season kicks off at Terrick West Poll Merino Stud on August 11.

John breeds quick-maturing sheep with high fat, muscle

THE Humbert family is celebrating 150 years in the Prairie and Calivil area since first taking up a landselection.

It’s where fourth-generation John Humbert is breeding robust, quick maturing, large framed, fertile sheep with high genetic fat and muscle which produce high yielding carcasses at his Kedleston Park Merino and Poll Merino Stud.

“The wool grown is a soft, white, deep, crimping, long, stapled, lustrous, medium wool suited to any environment,” says John.

“For the past three years we have been shearing every six months with wool cuts averaging 4.8kg per shearing of 18.5-20.4 micron with a yield of 71 to 76 per cent.

“Our lambing percentage for the past season was 102 per cent from unscanned ewes. We are into our third year of using ASBVs, with some rams testing in the top one per

cent of the breed for yearling clean fleece weight and in the top 10 per cent for yearling body weight.

“At Kedleston Park we are using artificial insemination, embryo transfer and genotyping - all used to produce top performing rams and ewes to keep our clients’ flocks highly profitable.”

John and wife Rosemary founded their stud in 1996 after being state winners of the Victorian Flock of the Year and registered the stud in 2005.

“Ewes were brought from Roseville Park as well as a very influential ram

from Tara Park, both being of Purple Mandulay blood,” said studmaster John.

“A poll stud was registered in 2006 with two poll sports rams and a selection of Kedleston Park ewes. There have been further ewes purchased from Moorundie and rams from Moorundie and Banavie and Lachlan Merinos.

John said his breeding objectives had an emphasis on the growth rate with many top young rams reaching up to 100kg body weight by 12 months of age and ewe lambs having a sufficient body weight by eight to 10 months of age to be joined.

And the aim for staple length was growing up to 12mm a month enabling sheep to be shorn every six months, says John.

Kedleston Park continues to exhibit its faith in showcasing rams, ewes and fleeces - the Calivil stud has taken out the Loddon Valley Field

Day’s coveted pen of three rams on six occasions. And there was repeat success too in the Australian fleece competition at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo this month winning the performance

class fleece and also being awarded most valuable fleece in the performance class sections The fleece’s growth rate was 3.29mm a week and its growth value was rated at $3.41 a week.

FRIDAY 18 TH AUGUST 2023

Genomic tested and ASBVS available on the top 80 Rams

A wall of champion ribbons testament to rams on sale at Kedleston Park

New generation of stylish sheep

WILLERA Merinos is focused on simple objectives that are producing a style of Merino sheep to carry the new generation of breeders into a profitable, exciting and prosperous Merino breeding future.

Says stud manager Simon Coutts: “The ability to maintain a profitable Merino enterprise and wool industry has seen some dramatic changes within the style of the Merino sheep of today.

“Willera Merinos has been at the forefront of this and continues to push hard for staple length and density without compromising a free growing plain bodied animal thus allowing us to become a mules free flock.

“Carcass traits have been selected focussing on deep bodied poll Merinos with high eye muscle and fat which have a good constitution and a broad rump.”

At this year’s Loddon Valley Stud Merino Breeders’ Association Field day, Willera was awarded first prize for the pen of three paddock-run

Inspection: From 10AM on day of sale

Auction: 1PM

Offering: 183 rams

1072 Old BoortSerpentine Road

Bears Lagoon

ewes. “The success for our pen of three ewes shows the consistency of our breeding techniques and outcomes that attracts the attention and bids of farmers from across Victoria and beyond at our annual ram sales.”

Willera only held its first onproperty ram sale in 2018 but is one of the oldest studs in Victoria.

Established in 1890, Willera Merinos is now into the fifth generation of breeding Merinos on land along the Loddon River and Serpentine Creek. It all began in 1842 when George Coutts and his family emigrated from Scotland to northern Victoria. They first settled on the granite

hill, similar to their home land of Scotland, and then the fertile flood plains of the Loddon River.

“Innovation is what has kept our farming family on the land,” said Simon. “Our simple breeding objectives are designing the Merino we view as the profitable and also ethical animal in today’s demanding markets.”

Meeting changing society demands also meant the “trailblazing” step away from mulesing six years ago.

“From a management point of view you’ve really got to be on your game, but I think the benefits outweigh that,” he said. “It’s keeping an eye on worm egg counts and pasture management, ensuring you’ve got enough fibre on offer for lambs.” He said the dual-purpose sheep from Willera gave producers the “bang for your buck out of every part of it — wool, carcass and lambing percentages, the whole box and dice — they have more do-ability and are easier to manage; the focus isn’t all on the wool”.

Sale days at Willera - 183 genomics-tested rams on offer this year while manager Simon Coutts (below) displays a top-selling ram from 2022.

Big frames and wool

NORM Weir aims is to breed big framed, fertile sheep with as much quality wool as possible at his Kerrilyn Merino and Poll Merino Stud.

The Dunluce stud, founded in 1994 based on Belbourie and Wonga bloodlines, does this by using top Artificial Insemination sires.

Norm says all rams are tested and ranked for wool and body traits.

“We test the quality of our stud and effectiveness of the flock by entering wether trials,” he said.

“Both our flocks and clients’ flocks have been very successful in this venture.

“We are predominately a medium wool stud with microns ranging between 16.5 to 21.5.”

Norm said Kerrilyn had a history of breeding heavy-cutting productive sheep.

“We have won four most valuable fleece awards at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show Bendigo as well as a champion strong wool fleece and reserve champion medium

Inspection: From 10.30AM on day of auction

Auction: 12.30PM

Offering: 50 rams

Bealiba South Road, Dunluce

and fine-medium fleece awards.”

Benchmarking of Merino and poll Merinos - the poll stud was established with the purchase of 50 ewes and a ram at the Lewisdale dispersal sale rams and ewes in Western Australia in 2011 - has seen Kerrilyn awarded major prizes. At this month’s Australian Sheep and Wool Show, Kerrilyn had its best-ever results - its Medium Wool Champion Merino Ewe and then went on to win Grand Champion Medium Wool Ewe.

Kerrilyn also won the Champion Fine Medium Poll Merino Ewe and went on to become Reserve Grand Champion Fine Medium Ewe.

The same sheep were also awarded the Fine Medium Wool and Medium Wool Ewe Victorian Champions. The Medium Wool Ewe then won the Victorian Bred Champion Wool Ewe of the Show

Kerrilyn’s fleeces have also received honours over the years including at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show winning the champion Victorian fleece in 2021 that followed from earlier success in taking out the champion medium fleece.

Kerrilyn also won the Stoeleigh Perpetual Challenge Cup (highest aggregate medium wool classes) with champion ribbons, four reserve champion ribbons, 10 firsts, three second ribbons, three thirds and a fourth place in the pairs at the recent Victorian Sheep Show in Ballarat.

“Showing our rams and ewes at major shows is an important part of benchmarking what we do and gives confidence to our commercial flock buyers, who come from across central and northern Victoria and beyond,” said Norm.

Benchmarking confidence: Norm Weir with another Kerrilyn champion ram at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show.

Full house at chemical course

MORE than 20 farmers and agricultural sector workers attended a third chemical users’ course in Pyramid Hill last week.

Demand for the free courses through Pyramid Hill Neighbourhood House saw organisers plan the third two-day session and move to make the course an annual event for northern Loddon communities.

Participants have received their certificate of attainment and been listed with the Farm Chemical User’s Secretariat of Victoria.

During the course, participants were instructed how to prepare and apply chemicals, maintain storage areas and a chemical manifest, calibrate equipment and maintain records.

They were also instructed in correct use of protective equipment.

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

The overall market was generally firm on last week’s sale, with wellfinished lambs dearer and heavy sheep slightly cheaper.

SHEEP

LAMB supply dropped at Bendigo on Monday, down again to 7200 head, 2200 less than a week ago.

A very wintery yarding with heavy and well finished lambs in the minority against plainer types.

A key northern exporter was absent, however there was more buying activity from some domestic orders and this helped put a stronger price floor in the market, particularly for lambs sized from 22-27kg cwt.

Trade and heavy lambs generally gained $5 to $12 on a week ago.

Not many export grade lambs were offered and the few 30kg plus pens sold from $164 to a top of $176 to be slightly dearer at an estimated 510c to 530c/kg cwt.

The best run of heavy crossbred lambs, 26-30kg, $143 to $175 and the heavy trades $135 to $151 - all these lamb improving to averages between 550c to 565c/kg cwt.

Any neat domestic lambs in the 22-24kg range received better support and sold to $140 at up to 590/kg cwt.

However, bidding for secondary trade lambs in long untidy skins or lacking fat cover remained selective and they still ranged from $80 to $130 depending on quality and number in a pen.

Light lambs under 18kg cwt mostly $40 to $80 and were generally unchanged. Just 1780 sheep were offered. A key

northern buyer was absent and mutton prices were just firm to cheaper on limited quotes. Heaviest ewes $90 to $117 and Merino wethers to $110.

CROSSBRED LAMBS

C & C Mann Pyramid Hill (30) $176. G & D Turnbull Wycheproof (31) $173.R Fisicaro Warragoon (60) $162. O’Shannessy Bros Donald (56) $162. O’Shannessy Bros Donald (46) $157. M & P Gibson Beulah (135) $156. A Harris Costerfield (12) $156. Mirnee Partnership Hunter (83) $153. PJ Towt Whittlesea (52) $140.

MERINO LAMBS

R & A Rollinson Jerilderie (242) $183.

CROSSBRED EWES

Creswell Trading Beazley’s Bridge (95) $90. J Gilmore Tooborac (5) $90. A Alston Oaklands Junction (18) $86. D & F Graham Moama (27) $82.

MERINO EWES

L & M Harris Costerfield (78) $110. JM & PJ Darker Boort (62) $102.

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

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

GRAIN

Boort Grain Co-op prices Monday.

Wheat – ASW $340 FIS. AGP1 $340 FIS. SFW1 $340 FIS. FED1 $315 FIS. Barley - Bar1 $277 FIS. Bar2 $267 FIS. Bar3 $252 FIS. Bar4 $247 FIS. Faba1 $355 FIS. Faba2 $355 FIS.

Trade Lambs $115-145 $5.50-6 +$3.50

Store Lambs $40-95 $2 (liveweight)Firm

Heavy Sheep $90-110 $3-3.20 +$10

Trade Sheep $65-75 $3-3.50 -$5

Light Sheep $40-60 $3-3.50 Firm

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

Julie Madden attends last week’s chemical user course. LH PHOTO

Gordon Edwards, Zac Martin, Paul Condliffe and Sharyn O’Brien. LH PHOTO

Kangaroos will still be harvested

Sir, The decision of the Mount Alexander Shire Council to ask the State Government to stop the commercial harvesting of kangaroo’s for commercial purposes will not decrease the numbers of kangaroos shot within the state.

The kangaroos that would have been taken by the professionals will be shot under the ATCW (authority to control wildlife) system.

The landholders who control kangaroos under ATCWs do not have to have any training, don’t adhere to the National Code of Practice for Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies for Non-Commercial purposes.

Shooters come out of town to assist landholders to control kangaroos, they do not shoot the kangaroos in the head for a clean kill, they use inappropriate fire

YOUR ONLINE WORDS

LEttER tO thE EDItOR

arms, don’t care if the animals are dead or check for joeys.

Professional harvesters have to do training before obtaining a harvest licence, know the code of practice for commercial purposes, have to check for joeys with in three minutes and destroy any joeys as per code of practice.

As for a councillor’s comment, there were 65,000 kangaroos earmarked to be harvested in the shire. That is totally incorrect, There are 65100 kangaroos allowed to be harvested by the commercial industry in the central zone, which Mount Alexander shire is in. There are 13 shires in the central zone, including Loddon, so most likely there would be approximately 5000

The State Government says it will demolish the old Inglewood ambulance station. Loddon Herald readers have a different view Lorna Booth wrote: This building was opened in 1986. First paramedics were Dave Booth and Graeme Allen. Up until that date they operated out of an old house in the main street from late 1981. The ambulance service should retain the building to accommodate visiting paramedic staff.

(65, 100 divided by 13) harvested in the Mount Alexander Shire.

The reason the commercial harvest began, was to utilise the carcasses that were being shot under the ATCW system.

In 2014, a kangaroo pet food trial started in eight local government areas, then in 2016 expanded to 12 local government areas. Then in March 2019 the State Government announced that a commercial harvest would begin in September of 2019. Having professional harvesters doing the shooting is by far more preferable to inexperienced or untrained shooters controlling kangaroo numbers.

GlennCole Newbridge

Murray Smyth wrote: Youth club or a family stay rooms for visiting a sick rellie in hospital.

Christine Elliott wrote: Wonderful job Colleen, Howard and Faye. Support you 100 per cent.

Tanya Leach: Convert into a child care centre.

Madalynne Lamprell wrote: I second this. Inglewood needs one, there are plenty of young families like myself that need one close by.

From Loddon Herald Facebook Page

1. In which US state would you find Death Valley?

2. On which planet is the sky often a pink colour?

3. J. Robert Oppenheimer is often credited as being the father of what?

4. The cocktail ‘Tequila Sunrise’ is made with tequila, grenadine syrup, and the juice of which fruit?

5. What breed is Snoopy the dog?

6. And in what comic strip is he found?

7. Which is the smallest of the world’s five oceans?

8. What was the original name of Mickey Mouse?

9. In which state or territory would you find Australia’s tallest waterfall?

10. The 2008 Baz Luhrmann film ‘Australia’ starred which two Australian actors?

11. True or false – the Incan empire had a written language.

12. Which country has the most islands in the world?

13. Ares is the Greek god of?

14. What herb is in traditional pesto sauce?

15. Marilyn Monroe’s natural hair colour was what?

16. When was the last time England won The Ashes?

17. Gentoo Penguins will gift what to another penguin to acknowledge the relationship between the two?

18. What is Barbie doll’s surname?

19. According to dictionary entries, which language has the most words?

20. Who is the most recent AFL player to make their debut in a grand final?

ANSWERS

1. California 2. Mars

Orange

Beagle

Peanuts

Mortimer Mouse

and Nicole Kidman

Pickett (Richmond, 2019)

THE ASHES are coming home ... and eight Boort cricket tragics have been there cheering the Aussies in cricket combat against poor old England.

The Bears and Goulds with one honourary family member - Boort District School vice-principal Tom Bleicher - did their pitch taking support up to and above the decibels of the Poms’ famous Barmy Army over there in the Old Dart.

“There was one day they were pretty quiet,” mused Jo Bear about the uncharacteristic silence of England’s Barmy Army as Australia batted into a good position at Headingly, Leeds.

In the spirit of co-operation the two families are now offering advice to fellow tragics, as penned by Sue Gould, Archie Bear and Jo Bear.

“With the next Ashes series in England a mere four years away, we have compiled a subjective guide to help those considering a similar trip,” the post-trip diary has recorded. Although our experiences were brief and our list is unsubstantiated, this travel guide might give Loddon residents an insight to the eccentricity of a cricket trip to England.”

Expect passion

WHEN a group of people come together sharing a common love (test cricket) expect to engage in deep conversations about the intricacies of batting, bowling, the state of the pitch and team selections. Also expect to find diverse and quirky cricket lovers. We loved our fellow traveller who spent time at the end of each over, writing a ball-by-ball description in his tattered old Spirex notebook. There were other people that were filling out score sheets as they watched. We also befriended a retired school principal and footy coach who was catching up with one of his ex-footy charges -Andrew McDonald (Australian cricket coach).

Going on a tour such as this will mean that for five days you will be able to totally immerse yourself in cricket and can fully escape reality.

Wear bright, eclectic, happy Hawaiian influenced tour shirts

OUR shirts were provided by our no-frills tour group, and attracted lots of positive attention amongst the English. Our Boort crew were interviewed by the BBC and The Guardian’s Emma Johns.

Our prominent shirts meant that we were subjected to friendly banter and ribbing by happy English supporters.

Choose to go to one of the small English grounds

HEADINGLY Oval at Leeds - with a capacity of 18,000 people, offered an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. On day one, we sat in the very front row and to have the likes of Ben Stokes, Steve Smith and Scotty Boland a mere 10 metres away at third man, was amazing.

To hear the fielding team talking ... the

sound of the ball after Marsh smacked another boundary and to see Australian fielders watch ball after ball sail over their heads, provided a clearer perspective about the match.

Rain never dampens the atmosphere

WITH rain hitting the third day, the supporters shifted to the outer verandahs to drink and chat with friends. Adapted games of cricket popped up everywhere- bollards used as wickets, plastic souvenir bats and whatever type of ball that could be found. Rules were complex which included not allowing too many Aussies to play.

Embrace the iconic Barmy Army HOME for the army was the Western Terrace, with organisers ensuring they were well removed from the assigned seats of the Australian supporters.

Banter and singing was constant with some witty lyrics being developed such as Bon Jovi’s Halfway There (Living on a Prayer) when England got to half way in their run chase and a chant that made reference to Todd Murphy’s Harry Potter-like appearance. The Barmy Army, when in full song, light up the whole oval with a spinetingling and unique feeling of being so grateful to be there. The Australian team ensured that if the fielders were close to the Army, they were rotated regularly.

Smith endured the biggest focus, with songs… “We saw you cry on the telly”. Local fans also pitched in with a plane flying overhead displaying a banner - “Same old Aussies” a reference to a chant - “Same old Aussies, always cheating”

Beer and Pimms never disappoint

PINTS of cold ale were aplenty with queues metres deep from the start of play until the end and beyond. Half-pints of Pimms and ice provided a reminder that we were in England and that the English know what should be drunk on a hot day.

Local pubs provide a rejuvenating haven

AFTER a long day at the cricket, the local pubs were a friendly place to rewind, dis-

cuss the day’s play and share more hearty chats with the Loiners (local citizens of Leeds). The Scarborough was our go-to local pub and their beer-battered haddock, with chips and mushy peas was splendid. Expect English supporters to be pessimistic and self deprecating ENGLISH cricket has had a battering over the previous Ashes series and so supporters were skeptical of Baz Ball and the prospects of winning. Even with 50 runs left to win, there was an extreme level of anxiety and tension. The Barmy Army stopped singing and you could almost hear a pin drop.

Not many women go to the cricket in England

SO finally! There was no queue for the women’s toilets!

Expect to watch test cricket being played at the highest level.

THE opportunity to witness the unfolding narrative of this memorable 2023 Ashes series, was a bucket-list moment. To see the leadership of Ben Stokes and the tactics of Baz Ball, to see the great batsmen Smith and Labuschagne falter, and the reemergence of the big hitting Mitch Marsh, was precious. If you are a cricket lover, we cannot recommend this experience highly enough. Cricket was the winner!

Ferg Bear, Greg Bear, Stuart Gould, Jo Bear and Tom Bleicher (rear) with Archie Bear, Will Gould and Sue Gould soaking up the “barmy” atmosphere of the Ashes.

Expressions of Interest

DISPOSAL – UTILITY VEHICLE, TRAILER AND LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE PACKAGE

Loddon Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from the public to purchase a landscape maintenance package which includes 2018 Ford Ranger Ute, single axle 10 x 6 foot tipper trailer and a complete set of landscaping maintenance equipment. This equipment was used by Council’s Community Care property maintenance team.

The vehicle and equipment can be viewed at the Loddon Shire Depot at Ridge Street, Wedderburn at the following times:

Wednesday 2 August 2023 – between 3.45 – 5.00pm

Monday 7 August 2023 – between 3.45pm – 5.00pm

Interested parties are to register at the Depot O ce on arrival. The package will be sold as a single package and will not be separated. Copies of the equipment list, photos and EOI response form can be downloaded from Council’s website: https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/News-and-public-notices/Public-notices

For enquiries or to request a printed copy of the documents please contact Lisa Dunn on (03) 5494 1200 during business hours.

Expressions of interest close 5.00pm Friday 11 August, 2023.

Public Notice

Temporary closure of Cairn Curran and Laanecoorie reservoirs’ embankments

Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) will be carrying out routine maintenance at:

• Cairn Curran Reservoir from Tuesday 8 to Tuesday 22 August; and

• Laanecoorie Reservoir from Wednesday 23 August to Tuesday 5 September.

These periodic works involve testing and inspecting anchors which are used to improve the stability of the structures in extreme loading events such as floods and earthquakes.

To ensure public safety, access to the Cairn Curran and Laanecoorie embankments will be restricted for the duration of the works.

For more information, please contact GMW Loddon/Campaspe Storage Manager Paul Wakenshaw on phone 1800 013 357 or email paul.wakenshaw@gmwater.com.au.

Notification by Buyer Intention to Apply for the Permanent Transfer of a Licence to Take and Use Surface Water

GMW Reference No: BPTWE0014-23

Sawers Farms Pty Ltd of Loddon River Road

APPIN SOUTH VIC 3579

Refer to VicRoads Map: 29 E2 (ed. 8)

Intend to make two (2) applications to Permanently Transfer Entitlement to our existing Licence to Take & Use Surface water and increase the licensed volume from 120.0ML/Year x 2

The water will be used for the purpose of: Irrigation

To be used on lands described as Volume Folio Lot No Plan No Plan Type Parish 11941 719 2 807523T PS Leaghur

Any person able to demonstrate that their interests will be affected by the issuing of this Licence including any intended groundwater use, is invited to make a written submission (via post, email or fax) setting out the nature of the impact within 14 days of receipt of this written notification. Late submissions will not be considered.

To make a submission please read the information available for download from https://www.g-mwater. com.au/customer-services/forms refer to the Groundwater section (or contact GMW to arrange for a copy to be posted you). Submissions must be lodged in writing using the template available by either mail or email to Customer Support Coordinator, Licensing Administration, PO Box 165, TATURA VIC 3516 or email licensingadmin@gmwater.com.au

EMPLOYMENT

Careers at Loddon

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

Old bottles with town or company names. Marble bottles, Ginger Beer, Milk Bottles, Soda Syphons Any

Community Recovery Support O cerref.J/226

 Part-time, xed term position (until March 2024)

 Based at our Wedderburn O ce with exible work location options available  Band 4 - $64,566.32 - $69,060.16 per annum pro rata plus employer superannuation

Applications for the position above will close on Monday 31 July 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.

Cup meeting away again

NEXT January’s Wedderburn Harness Racing Cup will be conducted the Maryborough club’s Carisbrook track.

Wedderburn secretary Tom Nisbet said that while construction of new facilities at Donaldson Park would be complete, additional works around the track would not.

“We have had discussions and assessed the sitation, making the decision last week to continue racing at Carisbrook until all work is completed,” Nisbet said.

Among works to be started is raising the path between the new facilities and the horse parade ring. “We will raise that section of the surrounds in the next stage

to create a viewing area overlooking the parade ring,” he said.

The harness racing club’s decision last week means it will be more than two years between race meetings on the Donaldson Park track.

Loddon Shire says stage one of the Donaldson Park Community Hub construction program continues to progress on schedule, with completion of the main multipurpose building expected later in 2023.

The demolition of the existing Donaldson Park facility is expected to be undertaken later in 2023, ready for the construction of stage two – landscaping and play space - early next year.

Practice nets coming Band’s way

WEDDERBURN Band Cricket Club has started construction of new practice nets.

The club received funding from the Cricket Australia infrastructure fund and Loddon Shire for the project. The two-wicket nets will be con-

structed to national cricket standards with most work being done by volunteers. Work is expected to be finished next month.

Wedderburn played off for last season’s Upper Loddon Cricket Association flag and finished minor premers.

Ian Gould, Harry Hargreaves, Cam Turnbull and Ingrid Gould watch on as Jordan Hargreaves marks out the new practice wicket area ahead of laying the concrete slab. LH PHOTO

New century brings big tournament field

WEDDERBURN Golf Club’s annual tournament entered its second century with one of the largest 27-hole event fields in recent years.

Strong entries for the 101st event - more than 40 players from 17 clubs - saw the A Grade field set at players on a handicap of eight or less.

Boort’s Andrew Kane won the top grade scratch event hitting 103 and following on his form of the previous weekend when winning the same event at his home club’s annual tournament.

Cam Taylor took honours in B Grade with 112.

27-hole handicap - A Grade: Mark Bamford 102. B Grade Tony Holt 98.2

18-hole scratch - A Grade: Anthony Masters 69. B Grade: Glen Kramer 77.

18-hole handicap - A Grade: Anthony Passalick 67. B Grade: Glenda Bird 65.

9-hole handicap - A Grade: Tim Griffiths 32 on a countback from Mark Bamford. B Grade: Jon Chandler 31.

Nearest the pins: Jon Chandler, Anthony Masters, Glenda Bird, Tony Woolley.

The tournament started with the ladies’ four-ball best-ball with 15 pairs representing seven clubs.

Di Johnston and Julie McLennan scored 46 points for victory in A Grade from Sue Slattery and Pat Collins 43.

B Grade went to Beth Thompson and Dot Beattie with 49 with runners-up Wendy Laffin and Carmel Fitzpatrick on 46.

Nearest the pins: Ruth Iser, Di Johnston, Sue O’Connor. Second shot: Joan James. Longest putt: Wendy Laffin. The men’s four-ball best-ball on Friday was contested by 35 pairs from 19 clubs across central and northern Victoria.

Owen Bailey and C. Hansen were the A Grade winners with a score of 44 from Dale Anderson and Grant Humbert 43.

Anthony Hargreaves and J. Soulsby were victors in B Grade with 45 from Peter Sauy and Robert Bottom on a countback from N. Bradford and B. Johnson 44.

Nearest the pins: Grant Humbert, Dan Lanyon, Keith Bird. Second shot: Owen Bailey.

Sunday’s ambrose competition had 42 players from 14 clubs competing in groups of three to conclude the tournament.

Scratch: Todd Louttit, Neville

Vickery, Frances Lee 63, runnersup Lee Hicks, Darren Wright, Jake Wright 64.

Handicap: Anthony Hargreaves, Wendy Hargreaves, Wendy Laffin 56.17, runners-up Shane Ward, Archa Ward, Jake Hayes 57.

Nearest the pins: Mick Smith, Tony Holt, Robert Tonkin, Wendy Tonkin.

PYRAMID HILL

Seven groups competed in the 2023 Carmody Shield ambrose event. The winners were Meg and Don Stewart with an impressive net score of 55.

Scores from the recent club championships have been confirmed with James Ritchie defending the A Grade title he won for the first time last year, hitting 235 for a net 208

B Grade: Tony Mullins 266 net

210. Ladies: Jeanette Naylor: 320 net 251.

INGLEWOOD

The winner of ladies’ golf last week was Dianne Wayman on 29 points from Pam Kelly on 25 points.

Winner of second shot nearest the pin on the 14th was Helen Ward.

Sunday golf saw Rob Stranger shoot a 78 off the stick and a net 64 in the stroke event.

The club’s 103rd annual tournament started with the ladies’ event on Tuesday.

Men’s four-ball best-ball stableford will be played tomorrow and the men’s 27-hole event on Sunday.

NORTH CENTRAL JUNIORS

UNDER

GOALS - Wedderburn: T. Clarke 2. Boort: S. Muller 4, D. Perryman 3, J. O’Flaherty, M. Young, F. Arnold, D. King, C. Gooding, N. Howe, O. Byrne. BEST - Wedderburn: T. Clarke, B. Treuel, B. Cramp, T. Lovett, T. Woodward. Boort: F. Arnold, J. O’Flaherty, L. King, D. King, A. Lee

Call on Loddon finals

LODDON Valley league board will meet early next month to decide venues for the football and netball finals.

The final series is also expected to incorporate deciders for the fiveteam AFL Central Victoria under 18 football competition.

It is possible a final five format may be used for the juniors.

Captains go for zero

SATURDAY’S TAC road safety round saw Pyramid Hill skippers Matthew Moon and Zac Dingwall wearing the 0 jumpers to represent tthe club’s commitment to TAC’s Towards Zero campaign. Meanwhile, former league reserves best and fairest Nathan Moon ran out for his 200th club game on Saturday. Moon has played all his football with Pyramid Hill

Sea Lake Nandaly 44, Donald 44, Boort

Charlton 32, St Arnaud 24, Nullawil 16, Birchip Watchem 16, Wycheproof Narraport

Ladder: St Arnaud 48, Boort 46, Birchip Watchem 42, Sea Lake Nandaly 26, Wycheproof Narraport 18, Donald 16, Charlton 16, Nullawil 10, Wedderburn 2.

AFL CENTRAL VICTORIA

GOALS - Marong: Z. Conroy 5, H. Bourke 3, H. Rob-

Whykes.

- Wedderburn: D. Caruana, R. Whyman, N. Winslett, N. Crow-Williams. Boort: M. Beattie, J. Potter, L. Boyd, H. Malone, B. Herrington.

Ted Carmody (centre) with shield winners Don and Meg Stewart.

Andrew Kane hits his way to success at Wedderburn. LH PHOTO

Wedderburn club captain Graham Nesbit. LH PHOTO

Inglewood’s Gabe Nevins. LH PHOTO

Wedderburn’s Tom Campbell (second left) was among the Redbacks’ best in their win over Boort at Donaldson Park. LH PHOTO

LODDON VALLEY

Miti jumps back to third spot

MITIAMO powered home in the last quarter to jump over Pyramid Hill and back into third spot on the Loddon Valley A Grade netball ladder.

The Superoos had strong defensive performances in the second and fourth terms to run out winners 20 goals.

Pyramid Hill had come back to be within eight goals at the final change. Bridgewater continues to challenge for fifth spot after a 22goal victory over Calivil. 13

Boort 6, 17, 24, 32, (32). Donald 10, 20, 32,

lost to Bridgewater

62, (62). Bears Lagoon Serpentine

NORTH CENTRAL HOCKEY

Under 12: Donald drew Birchip Watchem 0-0, Wedderburn d Boort 2-0, Wycheproof Narraport lost to St Arnaud 0-2.

Ladder: St Arnaud 93, Wycheproof Narraport 72, Charlton 67, Birchip Watchem 58, Donald 42, Sea Lake Nandaly 37, Wedderburn 18, Boort 0.

Under 15: Donald lost to Birchip Watchem 1-4, Wedderburn lost to Boort 0-9, Wycheproof Narraport lost to St Arnaud 1-2.

Ladder: St Arnaud 90, Birchip Watchem 82, Sea Lake Nandaly 73, Boort 53, Charlton 42, Donald 42, Wedderburn 9, Wycheproof Narraport 8.

Women: Donald lost to Birchip Watchem 0-4, Wedderburn lost to Boort 1-3, Wycheproof Narraport d St Arnaud 3-0.

Ladder: Charlton 94, Wycheproof Narraport 86, Birchip Watchem 64, St Arnaud 47, Boort 42, Sea Lake Nandaly 33, Wedderburn 18, Donald 0.

Men: Donald d Birchip Watchem 20-0, Wycheproof Narraport drew St Arnaud 4-4.

Ladder: Wycheproof Narraport 83, St Arnaud 81, Boort 80, Donald 44, Sea Lake Nandaly 26, Charlton 22, Birchip Watchem 3.

Emma Darker (Boort) and Wedderburn’s Grace Lockhart in a fast-paced battle of the mid-court and (right) Boort’s Carly Isaac. LH PHOTO

Lucy Malone and Emily Caruana battle for control in Saturday’s match at Donaldson Park. Malone was among goal scorers for the winning Pies. LH PHOTO

Home patch heros give blistering performance

By CHRIS EARL

DOMINANT onballers and goal-front flamboyancy saw Wedderburn take out Saturday’s Loddon Derby over Boort.

The Redbacks used the expanses of Donaldson Park to unleash blistering passages that became too constant for the younger Magpie outfit to withstand.

When Wedderburn did make errors in the North Central league match, there was a quick regrouping to keep the ball forward or force a quick turnover.

And more than once Boort was immediately punished after chip shots from goal square kick-ins went straight to a Redbacks’ opponent.

Wedderburn made its intensions clear from the first bounce won by ruckman Jordan Hargeaves, sending play deep into the forward zone and an opportunistic off-the-ground goal by Mitch McEwen in the first minute.

Boort pushed back deep, only to see the Redbacks propel forward where coach Sam Barnes kicked the first of four goals for the day and followed soon after with an accurate hook by Danny Benaim.

It would be almost mid-way through the opening term before Boort had its first major, coming from Frasier Holland who was proving a handful for Wedderburn defenders.

But the Redbacks showed a more open brand of play in the first term and had more players taking chances to create fortune. A massive 60-metre roost by Mackenzie Smith was offline but highlighted the confidence of Wedderburn. They still had to counter the strength of Holland in the goal square, Ryan McGhie around the ground and the constant work of Smith and Davis in defence that was keeping Boort in the game.

Keanu Padula and Jarrod Fitzpatrick in his 100th senior game helped lift Boort in the second term with tighter play and tackling.

The Pies finally put a major on the board as McGhie and senior debutante Lachie Hall weaved the ball down the ground and Hall scored 12 minutes into the quarter. Davis then reversed a Wedderburn attack that saw Holland score his third goal.

Boort had trimmed the margin to seven points. That’s when Tom Campbell sprung to life - he set up a goal for Jordan Rosegren, immediately followed by a Robert Whyman snap. A minute later Whyman kicked the ball to Benaim who found an accurate Darcy Jackson.

Levi Moss showed there was still spirit in the Pies with a dash around the flanks to Holland for another goal.

Fizpatrick was constantly taking on Wedderburn for the quarter, the Pies down by three goals at the main break.

Early goals to Campbell and Barnes put Wedderburn in the ascendency from the third quarter.

The game’s rhythm was halted mid-way through the term when Boort’s Brayden

Aitken took a knock in play and had to be helped from the ground.

It was Wedderburn who soon re-established control - Luke Holt and Hamish Lockhart combined to feed the ball deep forward to Campbell.

James Wilson and Alex Davis were taking telling marks for Boort, only to see Wedderburn thwart their work.

Campbell was bobbing up with his leads in the forward zone - one late-term goal for Wedderburn coming off a poor Boort kickout. The Redbacks were following through with play with a Jackson McEwen goal capping off another blistering passage.

Wedderburn held Boort scoreless for the third term with its dominant display and punishment of Pies’ mistakes.

Boort took a leaf out of Wedderburn’s book with immediate scoreboard success in the opening seconds of the final term.

The Redbacks were temporarily stunned with the lightning speed of Fitzpatrick’s goal.

Skipper Corey Lowry, also playing his 100th game, snapped Wedderburn back into action as he set up another Tom Campbell goal.

Mitchell McEwen had a hand in Joe Lockhart’s major minutes later. The Redbacks were communicatiing well in defence and up forward, Lowry in the middle of major play.

Boort had a brief mid-quarter revival. Wedderburn smothered the space of Holland but Cam Ross found room to goal.

However, the Wedderburn onslaught continued with Barnes, Campbell and Luke Holt pushing home the desire of the Redbacks.

Boort’s defence was under constant pressure all day and stood tall so often but Wedderburn had more options for goal.

SENIORS

GOALS - Charlton: C. Gavaghan 5, N. Thompson 2, A. Johnstone, S. Woods, J. Cowling, B. Dixon. Nullawil: D. Smith, A. Thomson 4, J. Humphreys 2, C. Fawcett, M. Quigley, J. Casey, Z. Caccaviello.

BEST - Charlton: A. Walklate, J. Thompson, C. Gavaghan, J. Cowling, S. Woods, C. Fitzpatrick. Nullawil

Seniors: D. Watts, D. Smith, M. Quigley, D. Putt, K. Doran, Z. Kelly.

GOALS - Wycheproof Narraport: C. Green 4, G. Hommelhoff 3, R. Allan 2, B. Fraser, J. McHutchison, R. Jones, J. Bateson. St Arnaud: A. Bourke, J. Hicks. BEST - Wycheproof Narraport: J. Kenny, G. Hommelhoff, S. Allan, L. Van Schaik, A. Hogan, J. Bateson. St Arnaud: H. Durward, W. Bertalli, Z. MacDonald, D. Gifford, N. Birthisel, K. Torney. Wedderburn

(129)

(54)

GOALS - Wedderburn: T. Campbell 5, S. Barnes 4, D. Benaim 2, R. Whyman, J. McEwen, D. Jackson, J. Lockhart, L. Holt, M. McEwen, J. Rosengren. Boort: F. Holland 4, L. Hall, A. Cockerell, C. Ross, J. Fitzpatrick.

BEST - Wedderburn: J. McEwen, J. Rosengren, T. Campbell, C. Lowry, J. Hargreaves, S. Barnes. Boort: R. McGhie, J. Smith, F. Holland, A. Davis, D. Hawker, S. Green.

GOALS - Donald: S. Dunstan 5, T. Grant 4, J. Talty, R. Young, B. Griffiths, C. Anderson. Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 8, N. Rippon 2, N. Gordon, D. Castellano, J. Randall, J. Reid, L. Foott.

BEST - Donald: J. Potter, D. Bell-Warren, R. McGough, J. Wall, H. Geddes, L. Geddes. Birchip Watchem: D. Reid, N. Rippon, B. Edwards, M. Rippon, L. Ryan, N.

RESERVES

GOALS - Wycheproof Narraport: J. McHutchison, H. Senior 5, J. Parker 3, B. Brennan 2, D. Cook, Z. Witcombe, X. McKersie, A. Zuk, S. Rodda.

- Wycheproof Narraport: H. Senior, W. Allan, L. Bish, A. Zuk, Z. Cruse, K. Henshaw. St Arnaud: E. Swanton, C. Campbell, S. Elliott, R. Burke, B. Williams, H. Darby.

IN FRONT OF GOAL

SENIORS

62 - (5) - Sam Dunstan - Donald

51 - (8) - Ben Edwards - Birchip Watchem

36 - (4) - Sam Barnes - Wedderburn

35 - (4) - Adam Thomson - Nullawil

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

33 - (1) - Nathan Gordon - Birchip Watchem

32 - (2) - Nick Thompson - Charlton

30 - (5) - Tom Campbell - Wedderburn

27 - (3) - Gedd Hommelhoff - Wycheproof N

26 - (1) - Daniel Castellano - Birchip Watchem 24 - (0) - Joshua Jenkins - Sea Lake Nandaly RESERVES

39 - (0) - Billy Poulton - Sea Lake Nandaly

34 - (9) - Patrick O’Rourke - Boort

32 - (2) - Ben Brennan - Wycheproof N

31 - (3) - Callum Goode - Birchip Watchem

27 - (0) - Sam Goldsmith - Nullawil

25 - (2) - Gerald Riley - Wedderburn

LODDON HERALD TIPS

St Arnaud v Donald

Birchip Watchem v Wedderburn

Nullawil v Wycheproof Narraport

Sea Lake Nandaly v Charlton

Boort bye

(18) Birchip Watchem 4.5

10.11 17.11 (113)

GOALS - Donald: B. Dixon, S. Sellick, J. Funcke. Birchip Watchem: J. Goldsmith, C. Goode 3, S. Milne, J. Ryan 2, S. Hogan, P. Hickmott, T. Wiantara, M. Rickard, M. Finster, T. Colbert, details incomplete.

BEST - Donald: D. Gowlett, K. Green, J. Funcke, J. Sullivan, G. Beckham, B. Dixon. Birchip Watchem: T. Colbert, S. Hogan, J. Ryan, M. Rickard, J. Goldsmith.

Wedderburn 3.0 3.1 3.2 4.2 (26)

Boort 6.1 13.3 18.4 22.5 (137)

GOALS - Wedderburn: G. Riley 2, C. Hargreaves, M. Lockhart. Boort: P. O’Rourke 9, M. Rice, N. McNally 3, E. Coleman 2, H. Weaver, B. Slatter, C. O’Rourke, M. Kane, N. Gooding.

BEST - Wedderburn: D. Keuken, D. Caruana, C. Lang, M. Lockhart, J. Hayes, B. Collins. Boort: P. O’Rourke, M. Buchanan, M. Kane, H. Weaver, E. Coleman, J. Coleman.

Charlton 1.0 1.0 1.0 2.1 (13)

Nullawil 6.4 9.8 13.10 20.11 (131)

GOALS - Charlton: R. Mace, details incomplete. Nullawil: J. Taylor 7, N. Williams, M. Poyner 4, J. Barry 2, M. Barry, S. Kelly, B. Forrester.

BEST - Charlton: T. Catherine, R. Welch, J. Graham, R. Mace, J. Olive, P. Sait. Nullawil: J. Taylor, N. Williams, J. Barry, J. Bowyer, M. Barry, M. Poyner.

CLASHING COUSINS Saturday’s Loddon Derby saw five cousins line up in the seniors - Wedderburn’s Joe Lockhart, Corey Lowry and Sam Lockhart pitted themselves against Boort’s Jack Hall and senior debutante Lachie Hall.

EXTRA SUPPORT: Wall art for Saturday’s Loddon Derby added to the new Donaldson Park complex under construction.

Potent forwards break Superoos’ glamour run

PYRAMID Hill snapped the three-game glamour run of Mitiamo at Mitchell Park on Saturday.

The return of Brodie Carroll for just his fourth game for the Bulldogs this year boosted the potency up forward.

Carroll kicked three of the home side’s 25 goals on a list that included nine other players and was headed by Jesse Sheahan’s haul of eight.

Slingo, Carroll and Sidebottom, having his third game of the season, gave Pyramid Hill the drive to take a four-goal lead at the first break.

Tough contests had players resting on the bench, including Billy Micevski with a calf injury.

Mitiamo was also without Luke Lougon for part of the first half but he returned to the ground and again made his presence felt.

Lougoon, Clohesy and Morrison kept the battle up for four quarters but could not counter the potency of Pyramid Hill up forward and the best-on-ground work of Declan Slingo who was pivotal across the midfield in setting up dynamic passages.

The scoreboard, while reflecting an im-

Bryden Morrison

provement for Mitiamo on when the two met earlier in the season, was Pyramid Hill’s most accurate return all season with just 10 behinds.

z Bridgewater’s young brigade rose to the constant challenges of Calivil to scrape home by 10 points.

The Mean Machine was without Jack Symons, suspended after a match review of video from the previous round.

The scrappy first half saw Calivil head to the main break with a two-goal lead.

Maher, Thompson and Avard had put

the Demons back into contention after a sluggish start on the scoreboard.

Bridgewater had more of the play in the third quarter but pressure and inaccuracy saw six behinds scored while both teams added two goals, Jeremy Campbell one of the off-target offenders.

The stirring final quarter saw Bridgewater’s young brigade of Darcy Wood, James Naughton, Oliver Muggleton, Ayden McDowell and Nick Naughton hold the course.

z Bears Lagoon Serpentine was outclassed from the first bounce in its clash with Marong.

Despite a valiant effort from coach Justin Laird and another solid performance from Brohm, the third-placed Bears could not put a dent in Marong’s game plan.

The Panthers had backups for every passage and options galore up forward. Brayden Grenfell’s five goals came in the first 60 minutes and he then let other players do the work. He now sits on 99 goals for the home and away season.

z Maiden Gully sunk to a ninth straight loss after surrendering its half-time lead to Newbridge. Chris Dixon was the Maroon’s leading goalkicker with four.

‘Normal round’ puts interest in most matches

SATURDAY’S Loddon Valley round could be a sneak peak at how season 2024 will look.

The dominant Marong - one of three clubs eyeing a switch to Heathcote league next year - has the bye.

After almost two months of blowout wins being recorded by the Panthers, the “normal” round will generate greater interest on Saturday.

Inglewood is back from its bye and up

SENIORS

against a dogged Newbridge. The Blues will be strengthened with the return of several key players unavailable when Mitiamo caused a real upset two weeks ago.

Inclusion of the Polack brothers and Gabe Nevins will add skill and tenacity too much for the spirited Maroons to counter.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine will follow the path of every other team in the com-

IN FRONT OF GOAL

99 - (5) - Brandyn Grenfell - Marong

45 - (0) - Kain Robins - Marong

39 - (0) - Joshua Martyn - Bridgewater

38 - (2) - Ryley Taylor - Marong

34 - (0) - Matthew Riordan - Marong

30 - (0) - Charlie McGaw - Inglewood

29 - (2) - Justin Laird - B/L Serpentine

29 - (0) - Jay Reynolds - Mitiamo

29 - (0) - Andrew Gladman - BL Serpentine

26 - (0) - Keelan Payne - Inglewood Seniors

UMPIRES IN ARMS

Veteran North Central and Loddon Valley umpire Mal Burge was the toast of the football world when he umpired his 700th game in Charlton on Saturday.

Mal (second right) shared field umpire duties with Richard Hicks and the duo was joined by fellow umpires Neville Cockerell and Glenn Cato who made their way to the Charlton-Nullawil clash after officiating at the Loddon Valley reserve match between Newbridge and Maiden Gully.

Mal said he had been amazed with the best wishes received ahead of the milestone game.

“People were contacting me to offer their congratulations. And the game itself was a pleasure to umpire,” Mal said.

25 - (5) - Will Perryman - Pyramid Hill

24 - (1) - Zach Alford - Pyramid Hill

24 - (0) - Bailey George - Pyramid Hill RESERVES

54 - (5) - Rowan Pollock - Pyramid Hill

32 - (0) - Bradley Matthews - Marong

24 - (0) - Clay Anstee - BL Serpentine

23 - (0) - Tucker Thach - Marong

21 - (0) - Reece Gretgrix - Marong

21 - (1) - Joel Pianto - Mitiamo

petition of bouncing back from the drubbing handed out last Saturday by Marong. Up against an injury and suspensiondepleted young Bridgewater side, the Bears should be too good.

Calivil pushed the Mean Machine last Saturday and Mitiamo can expect a similar welcome. A top match but one where Mitiamo should deliver the goods.

Pyramid Hill is lifting at the right time and will show no mercy to Maiden Gully.

THIS SATURDAY

LODDON HERALD TIPS

Pyramid Hill v Maiden Gully

Newbridge v Inglewood

Calivil v Mitiamo

Bridgewater v Bears Lagoon

SENIORS

GOALS - Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Laird 2, J. Rippingale. Marong: B. Grenfell, K. Manley 5, N. Devanny 3, R. Taylor, C. Gregg 2, R. Tibbett, D. Johnstone, M. Bradbury, P. Gretgrix.

Pyramid Hill 5.4 12.6 17.8 25.10 (160) Mitiamo 1.3 3.4 6.5 7.7 (49)

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: J. Sheahan 8, W. Perryman 5, B. Carroll 3, J. Woodward, T. Walker 2, B. Morison, A. Holland, J. Hickmott, E. Caburnay, Z. Alford. Mitiamo: B. Baines 3, R. Turner 2, A. White, A. Cussen.

Campbell. Calivil 0.3 4.5 6.5 9.10

(64)

Newbridge 2.1 4.3 8.8 10.12

(72)

Marong 14 14 0 2258 383 589.56 56 Pyramid Hill 13 11 2 1435 791 181.65 44 BL Serpentine 13 9 4 1222 1073 113.89 36 Inglewood 13 7 6 1177 1129 104.25 28 Bridgewater 14 7 7 888 1033 85.96 28 Mitiamo 13 4 9 805 1416 56.85 16 Newbridge 14 4 10 691 1438 48.05 16 Calivil 13 2 11 710 1319 53.83 8 Maiden Gully 13 2 11 614 1219 50.37 8 RESERVES Calivil 2.1 4.2 4.4 4.4 (28) Bridgewater 2.5 6.9 13.11 14.15 (99) GOALS

- Calivil: D. Ryan 2, B. Masson,

L. Harrison 5, T. Naughton 3, R. Ladson, A. Hernon 2, A. Hope, J. Boyd.

BL Serpentine 1.1 2.1 2.2 2.3 (15) Marong 2.3 5.5 5.11 11.13 (79)

GOALS - Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Gladman 2 Marong: W. Beagley 3, L. Frankel, A. Collins 2, Z. Turnbull, J. Cummins.

Pyramid Hill 2.2

6.3 6.6

Mitiamo 1.5 3.7

GOALS - Pyramid Hill: R. Pollock 5, H. Goodes 3, N. Moon 2, T. Aitken, G. Birt. Mitiamo: C. Collins, J. Rawlings, C. Milne, J. Pianto.

Newbridge 2.0 5.2 7.6 9.13 (67) Maiden Gully 1.5 2.6 2.6 2.7

(19)

Marong 14 14 0 1647 291 565.98 56 BL Serpentine 13 10 3 727 634 114.67 40 Pyramid Hill 13 9 4 1023 567 180.41 36 Newbridge 14 6 8 790 734 107.63 24 Maiden Gully 13 6 7 600 790 75.95 24 Inglewood 13 5 8 793 711 111.53 20 Mitiamo 13 4 9 588 812 72.41 16 Bridgewater 14 4 10 520 982 52.95 16 Calivil 13 2 11 304 1471 20.67 8

Association service hits life’s target

ROBINA Little and Matt Day have been made life members of Loddon Darts Association.

The surprised stalwarts were presented with medallions by president Robert Day at the association’s grand final and championship day.

Robina became association secretary within months of moving to Wedderburn more than 10 years ago, only stepping down from the role this year.

Robina has won multiple association championships and played in two premiership teams.

“And she was has helped at every tournament since being talked into taking on the role of secretary,” Day said.

Matt Day was a founding member of the association and has since played in seven premiership teams.

“It is all the jobs that nobody sees that Matt does, especially before tournaments, when he is busy enough already,” said the president.

Robert Day congratulated the two new life members on their contribution to the association.

TOP SPOT BOILOVER

PACESETTER Boort has been defeated for the first time this season in North Central netball.

The 12-goal loss to perennial A Grade powerhouse Wedderburn on Saturday came after two close calls in as many weeks for the Pies with several players called up from B Grade to cover absen-ces.

The Pies were again without Jo Isaac and also missed defender Rene Caris who had lined up for the first 2023 Loddon Derby back

in May that the Pies won by 10 goals.

They faced a full-strength Wedderburn on the Donaldson Park court for Saturday’s return encounter that was fast-paced and furious.

Tess Jackson orchestrated rapid turnovers for the Redbacks and Aliza Lockhart was dangerous all match in goal attack. Courtney Gleeson had her first taste of playing Boort as a Redback and made her presence felt.

Jackson backed up in defence

and quickly moved the ball to Wedderburn’s attackers.

“We’ve started to make the game plan work the last two or three weeks with better flow around the court,” said Redbacks’ coach Emma Lockhart.

The Redbacks had a one-goal lead at the first break, Boort switched the ledger by the main break before Wedderburn’s attack jumped several gears and constantly thwarted Boort in its scoring zone.

The rapidity of turnovers saw

the Redbacks hit the front to lead eight goals at the last change before stretching the margin and staking its claim to keep the double chance in finals Wedderburn faces its challenger for second spot, Birchip Watchem, this Saturday.

For Boort coach Georgia Sheahan, the season’s first loss coming against 2022 premiers and champions Wedderburn ”shows the importance of us being able to stick to a plan and pick up when a player is not in the

team”. Sheehan said Boort would keep working to create options in attack.

“Wedderburn picked up what we were doing in attack and then shut us down,” she said.

“We need to lift communication across the court and not be as predictable in defence.”

And the rivalry of the two Loddon sides played out in a thrilling finish to the B Grade encounter.

Boort reversed a one-goal deficit at the final break to sneak home by a single shot.

Life members Matt Day and Robina Little.

LH PHOTO