Loddon Herald 28 December 2023

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Loddon HERALD Vol 3 No 50, THURSDAY DECEMBER 28, 2023 ISSN 2653-1550

LH PHOTO

SPECIAL EDITION - STORIES & PHOTOS FROM 175MM DELUGE

WATER BOMBED CHRISTMAS DAY EVACUATIONS AND RESCUES

2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023

IN BRIEF

Loddon HERALD

Youth charged WEDDERBURN police have charged a Korong Vale youth with multiple offences after alleged incidents in Korong Vale. Police said the youth had been charged with aggravated burglary and theft of a motor vehicle. They said the youth would appear in court at a future date.

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Roo harvest quota

THE 2024 kangaroo harvest quota announced last week allows for the legal shooting of 39,000 in the lower Wimmera zone that includes the Loddon Shire.

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2.75% rate cap

LODDON Shire will be able to increase rates a maximum 2.75 per cent next year after the State Government on Friday announced the new rate cap. This year’s cap was 3.5 per cent and councils can apply for a higher rate cap if they can demonstrate community support and a critical need for spending on services or projects that require a higher rate rise.

The Loddon Herald is published by Muso’s Media Pty Ltd, PO Box 1188, Kangaroo Flat, 3555, and printed for the publishers by Newsprinters Pty Ltd McKoy Street, West Wodonga, VIC 3690.

Pauline Wellman adds container collection to her Inglewood business. AP PHOTO

WEEKEND FORECAST Boort Inglewood Pyramid Hill Wedderburn Dunolly Charlton

Mostly sunny Saturday 23, Sunday 26 Saturday 23, Sunday 26 Saturday 24, Sunday 28 Saturday 23, Sunday 26 Saturday 21, Sunday 25 Saturday 22, Sunday 26

Container collection confirmed

THE wait for Inglewood district residents to be part of the State Government’s container deposit scheme is over.

The town’s motel and caravan park has been confirmed as the location to return containers after owners Pauline and Jerry Wellman signed up to be the local depot.

Inglewood IGA had originally been listed as the town’s depot but withdrew before the scheme started in November.

The Loddon Shire currently has three locations with others in Boort and Wedderburn.

However the Lakeside Cafe BP Boort on Tuesday said it would not be taking any more cans, bot-

tles or plastic containers for recycling until Saturday.

“Our bins are full. Visy have delayed emptying our bins due to public holidays,” the cafe said.

The scheme gives Victorians a 10-cent refund for every eligible container returned. Several hundred locations have already been announced.

150th plans THE TARNAGULLA Primary School will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2024.

Plans are being prepared to mark the anniversary.

Biosolid base THE new Coliban Water biosolids base in Dunolly will increase the processing of biosolids for long-term sustainable reuse, said Coliban.

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Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023 | 3

CHRISTMAS DAY FLOODS

Water rescues

By CHRIS EARL

WATER spewed from the raging Nardoo Creek running through Wedderburn as more than 175mm of rain was dumped on the town in seven hours.

Residents were forced to wade through waist-deep water as the flood surged through their homes.

Some were rescued by emergency services before evacuation warnings were issued for the town on Christmas Day. The surge of water ripped out gates and fences on the outskirts of town and obliterated outdoor entertainment areas of homes backing onto the creek.

Slabs of bitumen were lifted, carried towards the creek. The volume of water too great and strong to pass through culverts in Godfrey Street, going over the top and taking out more bitumen and gravel towards the Korong Creek.

State Emergency Service units from Bendigo. Marong and Castlemaine arrived in Wedderburn as more than a dozen requests for help were received. SES volunteers were part of two rescues in the town.

Homes between Reef Street and Chapel Street copped the brunt of flood damage, Laurie, Ros and Danny Witham had been set for a third Christmas in their Chapel Street home.

Boundary fences were knocked over and 7cm of water went through the house.

“It was the only day of the year I was going to sleep in,” said Laurie as he started making a list of damage ready for insurance assessors.

Wife Ros said: “We were asleep (during the night) and didn’t notice anything until we woke. It was a lake outside.”

“No sandbags were going to help us.”

Ros, who was back home after surgery last week, waded out the family home on tip-toes to avoid water on stomach stitches.

Next door neighbour Sandra

Danny, Ros and Laurie Witham outside their Chapel Street home after the Christmas Day floods. INSET: Sandra Reynolds begins the cleanup. LH PHOTOS Reynolds was among those rescued during the flood emergency.

Sandra, who lives with throat cancer, had taken precautions before going to bed on Christmas Eve, putting her car on a ramp that she thought would be above any rising water.

“The water come in the back (yard) first and then came pouring into the house,” she said “Then emergency service people came to get me out. They had to carry me up the hill.”

Sandra’s plans for Christmas Day were scuttled by the floods.

Sons Darren and John eventually made it to Wedderburn from Bendigo and were helping their mother in the Boxing Day cleanup. “The local people have been

great with their help for mum,” Darren said.

Sandra joined the Withams for Christmas night with friends Bruce and Michelle Hargreaves at Kurracaburn, the town’s former hospital.

“I live on my own. It was scary but there are friends who have your back,” Sandra said after staying at Kurracaburn on Christmas night.

Laurie said: “We just took our food and drink to the Hargreaves and had a good day there and made the best of it.”

Rising waters had cut Wedderburn but by mid-morning with the Calder Highway closed in both directions until late afternoon.

Not all vehicles made it through floodwaters with success. A handful of cars were either stuck mid-way or lost power within metres of clearing the water at Glenalbyn and north of Wedderburn.

Loddon Mayor and Wedderburn Ward councillor Gavan Holt said: “Wedderburn was right where all the rain fell - seven inches in seven hours. And the timing of Christmas Day was far from helpful.” Cr Holt said he was thankful people in the town were safe after the deluge.

Flooding of homes was also reported in Korong Vale on Christmas Day and trees battered by storms continue to fall across roads.

MORE STORIES, PHOTOS - PAGES 5, 10 & 11

Special edition of your local Loddon Herald CHRISTMAS Day did not go as planned for many people in Loddon communities - the massive dump of rain brought flash flooding, road closures and damage to people’s homes and property.

Volunteers from fire brigades that hours earlier had been escorting Santa on Christmas Eve were on the front line as was the State Emergency Service and Loddon Shire officers and staff.

They were away from their families on Christmas Day, some for a few hours while others were part of the response for much longer.

Big news was happening and your local newspaper, the Loddon Herald had a responsibility to share and connect people and communities.

Even if it was Christmas Day - for we, like so many other country community newspapers, were taking a short break over the festive season - news must be reported. We are, after all a NEWS-paper.

Our online reports were designed to capture the immediacy of the unfolding emergency.

But the real news - talking to people, sharing their stories and bringing hope could not wait until we were to have resumed publication for 2024 in mid-January.

The call was made to put out today’s special edition.

Our printers made press time available while we quickly put together stories and photographs not only of the Christmas Day floods and their aftermath, but of other news happening over the past week.

We will, after today, resume that short festive break and be back with your local Loddon Herald every Thursday from the January 18 edition.

Until then, stay safe and enjoy the friendship and support of those around you.

CHRIS EARL Managing Editor

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023

How to help yourself or someone you know this holiday season

z Choose activities you find relaxing, unplug from electronic devices, go outdoors, take a walk or share delicious food with your family or friends. z Make Christmas about being present instead of the presents this year!

The holiday period is upon us once more. It is a time to connect with family and friends and while this may be an enjoyable time for some it may also leave us with feelings of sadness or loneliness. We may have feelings of excitement and joy, but these may be mixed with conflicting feelings of pressure and stress.

Self-care, mindfulness and creating your own rituals are important at this time of year. We encourage you to make space for yourself this holiday season. Here are steps to looking after yourself that may help: Keep it simple z Do something you enjoy z Do less and enjoy more z • It’s okay to say “no” when you need to z Make the most of the holidays by saying “yes” to activities and people you truly want to spend time with.

Self-care z Self-care will look different for everyone and can

HEALTH & WELLBEING SUPPORT Royal Flying Doctor Service - Flying Doctor Wellbeing - Available to those aged 18+. Call (03) 8412 0480.

Rural Financial Counselling Service - free and confidential financial support - Call 1300 735 578 Mind Australia Bendigo Call 1300 286 463 or visit mindaustralia.org.au Orange Door - You have a right to be safe Call 1800 512 359 Australian Community Support Organisation (ACSO) - An intake organisation for Alcohol and other Drugs, Mental health, Youth and other clinical services for the Loddon area.

1800respect - Confidential information, counselling and support service. Call 1800 737 732 Nurse on Call 24 hour caring and professional

include taking time to go for a walk, swim, play with a pet, listen to your favourite music, read a book, create a regular sleep routine and set aside time for yourself. z Be kind and compassionate to yourself too.

Revise your plan z Plan ahead by talking to those affected and remember, there is no rule book. z Be flexible to schedules. z Create new traditions that feel right for you and your family and friends z Have an exit strategy z Christmas catch-ups can be a mixed bag of joy and stress. Protect yourself against the stress by having a strategy. Plan how you will respond to sensitive issues and how you can exist if you want to.

Be present z Tune into your five senses, be aware of what you see, hear, taste, smell and touch.

health advice 1300 60 60 24.

Lifeline: 24hr crisis support and suicide prevention services: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue Information and support for anxiety and/or depression: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.com.au Kids Help Line 24hr phone and online counselling service for people aged 5-25: 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au Seniors Rights Victoria - Elder abuse, prevention and support - 1300 368 821 Emerging Minds Provides resources for parents, carers, and families about infant and child mental health: emergingminds.com.au Translation and Interpreter Services Provides access to phone and on-site interpreting services. Requests must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance. www.tisnational.gov.au National Relay Service Assistance making a

Share memories z Sharing memories of the past with stories, photos, videos, songs and special recipes. z Coming together and sharing our memories with others strengthens our connections. z Share your memories and continue to create new memories for the future.

Reach out z Remember to support others who may be experiencing a tough time. z Checking in, can be as simple as asking how they’re going and letting them know that you are there for them. z Stay in touch and if you are concerned, share emotional and mental health supports z Mental health support is available. For information see the contacts in this Bulletin.

phone call if you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impediment. Speak and listen number: 1300 555 727.

LOCAL SUPPORT SERVICES

Community Health/Hospitals Boort District Health 3 Kiniry St, Boort P: (03) 5451 5200 Inglewood and District Health Services 3 Hospital St, Inglewood P: (03) 5431 7000 Northern District Community Health P: (03) 5451 0200 Boort Medical Centre 2 Coutts St, Boort P:(03) 5451 5200 Dingee Bush Nursing Centre 21 King St, Dingee P:(03) 5436 8309 Marong Medical Practice 8 Hospital St, Inglewood P:(03) 5438 3308 Wedderburn Health Clinic 25 Wilson St, Wedderburn P: (03) 5494 3511

*Content adapted from mackillopseasons.org.au Legal Services Loddon Campaspe Community Legal Service P: 1800 450 909 Neighbourhood Houses Boort Resource and Information Centre (BRIC) 119-121 Godfrey St, Boort P: (03) 5455 2716 Inglewood Community Neighbourhood House Cnr Verdon & Market St, Inglewood P: (03)5455 2716 Pyramid Hill Neighbourhood House 43 Kelly St, Pyramid Hill P: (03) 5455 7129 Wedderburn Community House 24 Wilson St, Wedderburn P: (03) 5494 3489

Christmas-New Year service and office arrangements z The Council office in Wedderburn will be closed from 12pm Friday 22 December 2023 and will reopen at 8.15am on Tuesday 2 January 2024. z The Loddon Visitor Information Centre will be closed on Christmas Day, Monday 25 December 2023 but is otherwise open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and from 10am to 2pm on public holidays. For enquiries phone (03) 5494 3489 or email loddonvisitorinformation@ loddon.vic.gov.au

z Kerbside collections scheduled for Christmas Day (Monday 25 December) will instead take place on Saturday 23 December. z Kerbside collections scheduled for New Year’s Day (Monday 1 January 2024) will instead take place on Saturday 30 December 2023. z All other collections will continue as normal. z All waste facilities across the Shire will be closed on public holidays.

COUNCIL OFFICE T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003 Cr Gavan Holt Mayor Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

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

E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm

CONTACT COUNCIL

41 High Street Wedderburn 3518

Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023 | 5

CHRISTMAS DAY FLOODS

Council faces big bill in deluge aftermath THE State Government would work with the Wedderburn community and Loddon Shire in recovery from Monday’s floods.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett gave the commitment after calls for assistance in the aftermath of Christmas Day damage in Wedderburn and other towns.

Ms Haylett said she had spoken with Emergency Services .Minister Anthony Carbines “and the Victorian Government is working closely with the community and Loddon Shire Council to ensure they have what they need to get back on their feet.”

Loddon Mayor Gavan Holt said this week’s floods would put more financial pressure on the shire.

“We have delivered our own flood recovery (from the October 2022 emergency) but we have been held up by the challenge of accessing government fund-

ing for other work. This week’s floods now add to that,” he said.

Cr Holt said there would be discussions with the Government.

“The Christmas floods will put more pressure on council finances ... it will be a matter of who pays,” he said.

The Government says there are “well-established emergency management protocols to work collaboratively with the State and Federal Governments and local council to ensure locals’ needs are met after disaster events.

“The majority of disaster relief happens under joint funding arrangements (Disaster Funding Recovery Arrangements), which is a Commonwealth-led initiative that provides reimbursement for disaster-related expenditure to councils and state governments.

“This support may include hardship payments, emergency

housing, restoration of roads and schools.”

Cr Holt said farmers in the district were faced with replacing damaged fencing while property owners would be waiting on insurance assessors to inspect damage.

“It’s a mess in some places,” Cr Holt said.

Shire CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald said: “Our thoughts are with members of our community who have experienced flash flooding over Christmas.

“Council staff have been on duty, liaising with other emergency response agencies and responding as needed across the municipality.

“We are aware of some evacuations which took place in Wedderburn and people being supported in alternative accommodation.

“While council was at the ready, the opening of a Relief Centre was not requested by (disaster lead agency) emergency services.”

Mr Fitzgerald said council also had a significant number of its work crew called in on Christmas day to assist by removing fallen trees, closing roads and installing caution signs where hazards existed. “We will now be refocusing our efforts on clean up activities,” he said.

“We would like to acknowledge the efforts of local community members, providing support to those in need at this time.”

Enzo Scafati is calling for action at Inglewood. LH PHOTO

Drain block work call for Calder Highway WATER flowed has across the Calder Highway at Inglewood hampering access to the town for more than 48 hours.

Resident Enzo Scafati said the solution to water blocking the southern exit from town after deluges was easy.

“The pipes under the culvert at Sullivan Street are not big but there is a huge pile of dirt blocking water flowing into the main drain just metres away,” he said.

“That water has nowhere to go but out and across the highway.”

Enzo said rain since Christmas Day had again created a hazard for motorists.

“There were signs erected today (Boxing Day) warning vehicles travelling south but nothing to alert drivers coming into town from Bendigo,” he said.

“There’s still water across half the road at this spot and cars

from Bendigo seem to be driving through without a care.

“All that needs to be done is remove this big pile of dirt blocking the flow of water to the drain.

“I have been asking for something to be done for several years. Hopefully we can see some simple and easy work to reduce the dangers that come on the Calder Highway at this spot every time we cop a big rain.”

The Loddon Valley Highway at Campbells Forest still had a 40kmh speed limit in place yesterday morning while the Bridgewater-Arnold road remained closed.

Old St Arnaud road between Kurraca West and Gowar East is also closed.

There was also water still across the Wimmera Highway along the ‘nine-mile straight’ near Newbridge.

Lake ‘grows’ with 100mm overnight fall Trotting track washed away BOORT’S Nolens Park became a lake on Christmas morning as heavy rains fell across the northern tip of the Loddon Shire.

Pumps that help protect the town from flooding were quickly switched on although Jenny Buchanan told the Loddon Herald on Tuesday night there had been some flooding along McMillans Rd, near Lake Lyndger, on Christmas Day and in Ring Rd, near Little Lake Boort on Boxing Day. Leaghur farmer Tyler Nelson said he had measured more than 100mm of rain

by 7am on Christmas morning with totals recorded by farmers in the district continuing to rise during the day. Shallow water was running across local roads, Tyler said.

At Minmindie, Tamara Boyd said 129mm had been recorded between 5pm Christmas Eve and the following morning.

Bernard Bracken said: “Couldn’t measure the rain in Wedderburn on Christmas Eve. We were at the pool and the rain and hail was travelling sideways. Perfect beach weather!”

Inglewood’s Kristy Rose said: “Our sheds are all flooded but luckily the house is dry.”

WEDDERBURN’S Donaldson Park became a lake on Christmas Day with local residents putting kayaks to water.

Sections of the trotting track were washed away and officials from the football club and harness racing club were waiting on Tuesday for water to recede before checking memorabilia stored in buildings at the park.

The football club had its historical items in the hockey shed until the new community complex being built at the park was completed.

Historian Roger Paterson said photo-

graphs have been on tables but he was concerned for football honour boards. ”One thing in their favour is that they are made of hardwood,” he said.

Harness racing club president Bruce Hargreaves had stored trotting memorabilia in the drivers’ room. Sandbags had been put at doors to the room before the Christmas Eve downpour.

He said: “I would like to think Harness Racing Victoria will help with the track repairs.”

The club is racing at Maryborough until the new complex is ready.

6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023

Contract green light for VICTORIA HOTEL $2.9m centre project PYRAMID HILL

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A $2.9 MILLION contract for stage one of the Pyramid Hill Community Centre was announced last Friday.

Loddon Shire had awarded the contract during a confidential session of its November meeting.

Last week’s announcement also said work on the project would start in February. The shire said the “conservative build (was) scheduled for completion mid-2025, subject to material supply and inclement weather”.

The stage will include construction of: Allied health wing to accommodate Northern District Community Health and maternal child health services; Senior citizens’ room; Upgraded toilet facilities; Renovation of the current hall and kitchen; Expansion of storage; and Improved car parking and access to the building.

“The awarding of the contract for Stage 1

AMBULANCE Victoria’s community emergency response team in Pyramid Hill will be disbanded on Sunday.

The service did not say whether it would try to re-establish the team in the New Year, instead saying it is adding “a new automated external defibrillator to the town’s centre and will increase our community education about the simple steps bystanders can take in the moments following cardiac arrest while an ambulance is on the way”.

Local CERT volunteers said they were unable to continue adequate rostering after 18 years and the town will now be serviced by teams from Boort, Kerang and Cohuna.

Established in 2005, eight out of the 10 current volunteers were founding members of the Pyramid Hill CERT. Loddon Mallee director regional and clinical operations, Matt McCrohan, said the team had played an important role in the health care of Pyramid Hill.

“Many of the Pyramid Hill CERT members are among the state’s longest serving CERT volunteers,” he said.

“As a team, they have shown exemplary dedication to caring for their community for almost two decades.

“I would like to personally thank the members of the CERT and wish them all the best for the future.”

IN BRIEF Railings in place

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design component of the project. In 2021, Council received funding through the Victorian Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund for the development of detailed designs for all stages and funding for the construction of Stage 1.

Council last month endorsed a recommendation to contribute $500,000 to the project through council’s Terrick Ward strategic fund.

“Additionally, Loddon Shire Council was invited to submit a funding application to the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program to deliver the final stage of the community Centre.

The final stage includes the construction of a community wing to accommodate the neighbourhood house, library services and a community gym, with further parking included. “The outcome of this funding submission will be announced around March or April 2024 and if successful, will enable Council to deliver the project in its entirety,” Cr Holt said.

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of the project is a significant milestone and a wonderful step forward for the construction of this new community facility,” said Mayor Gavan Holt.

“I’d like to thank all those who contributed to getting the Pyramid Hill Community Centre to this Stage 1 construction – including the Pyramid Hill community, Northern District Community Health and a number of other community organisations.

“We look forward to working together with local organisations and the community on the first stage of this major redevelopment.

“In 2019, Council received funding from the Victorian Government for the preparation of a masterplan and feasibility study for the redevelopment of the existing Senior citizens’ building into the Pyramid Hill Community Centre.”

A $200,000 contribution was allocated to the project through the council’s 20212022 annual budget process to support the

DEPARTMENT of Transport late last week replaced pedestrian safety railing damaged on the Loddon River bridge at Bridgewater in October.

A FIRE on the Bendigo-Maryborough Road at Shelbourne on Saturday closed the road while crews from 18 brigades fought the fire before containing it three hours after being reported about 6am.

The fire twice jumped the road.

Roadwise operation VICTORIA Police Christmas-New Year blitz Operation Roadwise detected 4701 offences in its first five days. Police have conducted 72,372 preliminary breath tests, with 190 drivers detected for drink driving – a strike rate of one in every 381 motorists tested caught over the limit.

The blitz finishes at midnight Monday.

CERT team leader Sheridan Gunther said it was a difficult decision to step away but a unanimous one from team members.

“It was a hard call, but people were just getting tired after 18 years and we weren’t able to facilitate the roster as well as we’d like,” she said.

“We’ve had such a great journey as a really united team, so it was important this

decision to finish up was made ourselves as a collective.

“As team leader, you can only be as good as the team you’re leading, and there could be no complaints at all about any of the members that we’ve ever had – they’ve just been a wonderful group of people.

“When I think of the team, I think of integrity and respect.”

Road fix agreement ends after 30 years NEW contractors will maintain Department of Transport roads in the Loddon Shire from Monday.

For 30 years, Loddon Shire Council has provided a road maintenance service to the Department of Transport and Planning, formally VicRoads.

But from the New Year, that will change after the council decided not to re-tender for the contract.

Loddon had been one of just five councils in Victoria maintaining department roads.

Operations director Steve Phillips said: “Council agreed to not re-tender for the maintenance contract and retain the staff so as to allow us to concentrate on our network.”

Council and the department continued

to have a good working relationship, “after working on this contract for so many years it is hard to let it go, but it will let us focus on our own network ” said council’s works manager Daniel Lloyd.

Maintaining 394km of the department’s arterial roads in the shire will be SprayLine Road Services.

These roads are: Calder Highway, Loddon Valley Highway, Wimmera Highway, Bendigo Maryborough Rd, Bendigo Pyramid Rd, Boort Charlton Rd, Boort Kerang Rd, Boort Mitiamo Rd, Boort Pyramid Rd, Boort Wedderburn Rd, Boort Wycheproof Rd, Bridgewater Dunolly Rd, Bridgewater Maldon Rd, Bridgewater Serpentine Rd, Dunolly Eddington Rd, Echuca Mitiamo Rd, Leitchville Pyramid Rd, Logan Wedderburn Rd and Prairie Rochester Rd.

Handing over ... the department’s contract manager Trent King and Loddon Shire works manager Daniel Lloyd.

Fresh food tax ‘productivity threat’ THE Mallee electorate’s productivity was under threat from a new Federal Government biosecurity fresh food tax, said MP Anne Webster.

The Productivity Commission’s new report Towards Levyathan? Industry levies in Australia found levies introduced in the agriculture sector were now being imposed to simply raise general tax revenue.

“The Productivity Commission’s report shows that Labor needs to axe its new Biosecurity Protection Levy before we lose our agricultural sector,” Dr Webster said.

The report labels the new levy as inefficient as it will be imposed in addition to existing agricultural levies, which have raised funds for crop research and development.”

Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023 | 7

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023

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

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

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

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

Deb Abbott, Leanne Scholes, Santa, Mason Storey and Tim Ferguson ready to set off on Christmas Eve at Bridgewater. LH PHOTOS

Santa struts the streets

SANTA has made a last-minute dash into the Loddon on Christmas Eve ahead of his busiest night of the year.

The jolly chap in the red suit gave an exclusive interview to the Loddon Herald as he delivered lollies and cool icypoles to youngsters in Bridgewater on his Christmas Eve tour that included Korong Vale and Pyramid Hill.

A planned strutting of the streets around Boort was cancelled when wild weather swept through early in the evening.

In the interview, Santa said he had

many good helpers to make all the deliveries and was not expecting any obstacles from kangaroos as the reindeers take him through the sky.

However, he did have one eye on the weather. The forecast is for overnight rain, something Santa told us the reindeers don’t like.

And he says boys and girls have all been good this year and could look forward to presents.

You can watch the special interview with Santa at www.loddonherald.com.au

The Railway Hotel BOORT Santa on his Christmas Eve run at Bridgewater.

A fine pub with 100 years of trading - supplying you with friendly service,

Beautiful

Meals

COLD BEER, SPIRITS & WINES, RESTAURANT, ACCOMMODATION & BOTTLE SHOP Monday (closed June to August) - Other months open 4 pm (dinner from 6 pm) - Tuesday open 4 pm (dinner from 6 pm) - Wednesday open 4 pm (dinner from 6 pm) - Thursday open 4 pm (dinner from 6 pm) - Friday Open Midday (Lunch from 12 pm, dinner from 5.30 pm) Saturday open 4 pm (dinner from 5.30pm) - Sunday - open 4 pm (limited dinner)

84 Godfrey St, Boort - Phone 03 5400 9650 railwayhotelboort

Farmers can shape transmission plan FARMERS must help inform the Victorian Government plan for transmission development across the state, according to the Victorian Farmers’ Federation.

The new government agency charged with planning future transmission projects, VicGrid has released an online survey and mapping tool to help determine where future projects should be built.

VFF President Emma Germano said it was important for all farmers to have

their say to help guide future planning decisions. “We have seen how government’s failure to plan the transition to renewable energy has led to bad projects like the Western Renewables Link and VNI West.”

“The government has started to listen to farming communities by committing to undertake widescale planning of transmission infrastructure. This is a commitment the VFF has been fighting to secure since the 2018 state election.”

Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023 | 9

A FAIR SHARE FOR REGIONAL NEWS Regional Australian communities deserve local news as much as our big cities do.

Local independent newspapers still connect more than 80% of the country, but currently the commonwealth government invests close to 0% of its advertising budget here.

The federal government could help secure the future of regional news with zero extra cost by simply allocating a fairer share of government advertising to local and regional news services.

One page per week of important government information in regional newspapers would be a great start. This shouldn’t be controversial.

It’s a simple and fair solution for the future of regional news.

Authorised by A Schreyer, Country Press Australia, 163 Epsom Road Flemington 3031

10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023

CHRISTMAS DAY FLOODS

Leading Senior Contable Reuben Larson on the Calder Highway

Wedderburn football and harness racing club members wait for Donaldson Park water to recede. LH PHOTOS

Brendan Reeves and Gavin O’Connor at Wedderburn Stuck in the paddock at Korong Vale

Patio pavement ripped up by flood waters in Wedderburn

A car goes through floodwater at Glenalbyn

Jenny Buchanan’s photo of flooding in Boort

Boort’s Nolens Park in flood BRADLEY HAW

Damaged bitumen in Wedderburn

Waters recede at Korong Vale

Fences torn from the ground in Wedderburn

Margaret Keogh sent the Loddon Herald this stunning photograph of Christmas storm clouds at Calivil

Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023 | 11

CHRISTMAS DAY FLOODS

A day later, festive frivolity still shines FAMILY gatherings were rescheduled by the Christmas Day floods with generations instead gathering at the Wedderburn Hotel on Boxing Day. The atmosphere complete with tinsel and Christmas trees was not diminished by the later feasting on traditional fare.

Publican Craig Fuller and staff split Christmas lunch over two days to allow those who had bookings on Monday but unable to arrive at the hotel to still be together. “We’re glad people could still join us,” Craig said yesterday.

Alan Mitchellson, Karen Dunbar, Isabel Dean, Lyn Borg and John Grant enjoy the Boxing Day sitting of Christmas lunch. LH PHOTO

Barbara and Hans Relecker, Emily Glenister, Trina Vaughan and Sally Ellison

Barbara and Alan Mulraney

Jill Wilkins and Kevin Smith

Gabbie, Nick, Brooke, Macey and Braxton Jacques

CARS were stuck in floodwaters around Glenalbyn on Christmas Day. Local residents Mick Ward and Mick and Adele George (left) were among those to watch the morning unfold.

The trio said it was the wettest Christmas they had experienced.

While police were on the scene by mid-morning when rising water effectively blocked the Calder Highway in at least three spots at Glenalbyn, Mr Ward suggested local residents could in future have warning signs that could be erected on the roadside warning of water.

12 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023

Last of crop off minutes from dump DARK clouds were blowing in from the west when Arnold farmer Colin Graham finished the season’s harvest on Sunday.

Colin and son Darby had just put the auger in its shed when those clouds started to dump more than 100mm on the farm.

“We only had the lupins to finish on Sunday morning when a little breakdown slowed us up for while,” Colin said.

“We then moved swiftly. The black clouds were coming from the west and there were a few spots of rain.

“We hurried over the next half hour and by the time we had put the last of the lupins from the auger into bins it was pouring rain.

We made it by a minute.”

Colin said farmers across the Loddon had worked harder to finish harvest when the forecast came of rain on Christmas Eve. “Most people finished or were very close to finishing the har-

By CHRIS EARL vest,” Colin said on Tuesday, relaxing on his 64th birthday.

It was the first season that Colin toasted the end with son Darby. It was a tradition started almost half a century ago with Colin’s father Keith who died aged 92 in April.

“Dad and I would always shake hands and open a stubbie when the harvest finished. This year, Darby and I continued the tradition.”

He said the yield across lupins, wheat, barley and canola had been at average, a good result after patches of wet and dry spells during the season.

“After last year’s disaster when we had nine inches of rain in October, this is a good positive to come our of this season,” he said.

“Everybody needs a bit of that positive and this season has helped. Most people would be

Arnold farmer Colin Graham relaxes on Tuesday, his 64th birthday, after finishing harvest. AP PHOTO happy with their yields - they’re not outrageous but good enough to be positive about how the season has gone.”

And he said the quality of grain had held up despite the season’s challenges. “And we’re getting

reasonable prices ... that’s also a positive.”

He described the weekend’s rain bomb as “more like Queensland weather”. “We had 100, up to 120mm around Bridgewater, in 24 hours. This is Queensland

rain and in the old days it would take three days to get even three inches (75mm),” Colin said.

“I don’t remember a bigger 24hour rain total.”

“Those clouds opened up fast,” Colin said.

FOR LEASE BY TENDER

“JUNGABURRA” CENTRAL VICTORIA 2197.5 Hectares/ 5429 Acres - To be offered in 4 lots Cropping, pasture & wool production 3 Year Lease with a 2 year option

Lot 1: “Clee & Smith” 260.50 Hectares equalling 643.7 Acres.

In 2 paddocks with water by 3 dams. Red loam soil to clay base, dry feed base. 100% arable Lot 2: “Farrahs” 535.6 Hectares equalling 1329 Acres. Access from 3 roads. In 4 paddocks, water from 6 dams. Small set cattle yards, pasture comprising dry land, lucerne and stubble.

Partial fallow. 98% Arable. Red to grey loam soil mix Lot 3: “Amarants & Sibera” Including House Block 353.70 Hectares equalling 874 Acres. In 6 paddocks. Water by 7 dams.

Red loam to grey loam mix with small quartz ruse. Established dry land pasture. Curtilage available on request. 95% Arable Lot 4: “Sutherlands” 1061.1 Hectares equalling 2582.2 Acres. 98% Arable in 6 paddocks, water by 9 dams. Red loam soil to clay base, established dry pasture and lucerne.

Remarks: Extensive local land holding in almost one parcel, fencing is sheep proof. Most of this parcel is over 98% arable with balance being shelter belts, all dams can be filled from the Bendigo Creek. Pipeline water also available (not connected) Terms: 3 Year plus 2-year option. Tender to commence 1/3/2024. Payment ¼ in advance, working rights by request Closes: 25/1/2024 HIGHEST OR ANY TENDER NOT NECESSARILY ACCEPTED Inspections and Further particulars James Nevins: 0407 302 900

Luke Nevins: 0418 510 911

* FP NEVINS DOES NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ABOVE

Darby and Colin Graham continue tradition ... toasting the end of harvest.

Interviews make it to new book FARMERS involved in a series of weekly interviews have seen their words and thoughts included in a new book launched

by Birchip Cropping Group last Friday.

In launching the book, North West Node Leader of the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub, Grace Hosking said: “As one of the initiatives of BCG’s involvement in the Vic Drought Hub, BCG is proud to present the second generation of Over the Fence viewed through the lens of drought resilience.

“The series seeks to capture pearls of

wisdom derived from lived experiences, share information, and inspire innovative approaches to proactive risk mitigation.

“Additionally, the series puts a spotlight on the diverse business profiles thriving in the region, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of our local communities,” Ms Hosking said.

“BCG thanks all interviewees for their selfless participation in Over the Fence and the photographers who captured the magnificence of the landscape and people of north west Victoria.”

Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023 | 13

opinion & QUIZ | FEATURES

QUESTION Child care call a QUIZ 20 proud moment 1. What is the capital city of Finland

AS 2023 comes to a close, so does my first year as being your Member for Ripon.

Since being elected, we’ve achieved so much for the Loddon Shire and broader region.

One of my proudest days as your elected representative was visiting Wedderburn College recently to announce it will be the site of one of the Allan Labor Government’s 50 new government-run and operated childcare centres, opening in 2026.

This is a game-changer for Wedderburn and the Loddon Shire – and it’s the result of a passionate community-led campaign from families who currently have no childcare options at all.

It was an emotional morning being able to congratulate the local mums who have worked so hard to get this outcome and who have gone above and beyond to ensure their children are well looked after while juggling local small businesses, farms, and education.

I’m thrilled the State Government has also been able to deliver new speed limits on the Calder Highway in Inglewood and Wedderburn – improving safety for pedestrians, motorists, and local businesses.

A 40kmh speed limit is now

By MARTHA HAYLETT in place in Wedderburn between south of Godfrey Street and north of Reef Street, reduced from 50 kmh.

A 40 kmh speed zone is on its way in Inglewood between east of Grant Street and north of Houston Street and will be in place by late January.

These communities wanted a safer Calder Highway. I took their concerns directly to the Minister and I’m so pleased we’ve got a result.

Another highlight this year was working with the Newbridge community to recover from the October floods in 2022.

They worked tirelessly on the clean-up, including powerhouse Sue Horsley from the Recreation Reserve Committee.

It was an honour to deliver over $240,000 for the redevelopment of the recreation reserve, and to join them a few months ago to celebrate the completion of works.

There’s more progress too – with a new heavy tanker for the Inglewood CFA, funds for new uniforms for the Bridgewater Cricket Club, money for the Loddon Plains Landcare Network, and the Inglewood-Bridgewater RSL Sub-Branch too.

This is just the beginning though and we have so much more to do.

As we head into the New Year, I will be focused on fixing our roads, addressing the cost of living, and delivering more affordable housing across our region.

I will also be supporting our smaller communities across the Loddon Shire with the new Tiny Towns Fund, which offers grants of up to $50,000 for projects in communities of 5,000 people or less.

Local community groups can find out more about the Fund by visiting rdv.vic.gov.au and can contact my office for a letter of support.

While I know so many are winding down this time of year, this isn’t the case for all those in the farming industry. I want to send my best wishes to all our local farmers working non-stop this harvest, and hope that you get some much-deserved rest soon.

I also want to thank our emergency service volunteers who will be keeping us safe this fire season. We’d be lost without you, and you put your own safety on the line every day to protect us.

2. Which two planets are in either side of Earth?

3. Who painted the Mona Lisa?

4. The human heart has how many valves?

5. What nut is found at the centre of a Ferrero Rocher?

6. How many sides does a Nonagon have?

7. Sn is the chemical symbol for which element?

8. Is an avocado a fruit or vegetable?

cricket played in Perth before the completion of Optus stadium?

13. Which city did Mt Vesuvius famously bury with ash in 79AD? 14. Where did the drink Eggnog originate?

15. Which flower is often referred to as the Christmas flower?

16. The Great Depression started in which year?

17. Elvis Presley is known by what other name?

9. Which author wrote ‘A Christmas Carol’?

10. In ‘Home Alone’, what is Kevin’s surname?

11. How many elements are there on the periodic table?

12. Where was international

18. What fruit is used to make a christingle?

19. Where was Jesus born?

20. When do the 12 days of Christmas begin?

* Martha Haylett is the member for Ripon

your online words FROM THE LODDON HERALD FACEBOOK PAGE Hot days will slow speed of trains

RETIREMENT FROM BUSINESS OF BOORT’S MARILYN AND IAN LANYON

Trailblazers prepare to retire MARILYN and Ian Lanyon are preparing to step back from more than two decades of business innovation.

The Boort couple behind Simply Tomatoes, Woolly Warmers and Aussie Wool Quilts this week announced they would retire early next year.

Son Damien has taken over the tomato branch of the rural business with the couple putting their Country Wool Bedding, the 21st century incarnation of the popular quilt line, up for sale.

Ian says there is already interest in the Woolly Warmers lines.

“We’re finally going to retire but we’ll always be doing something,” he said.

Marilyn, who for three years had an entry in Who’s Who and collected rural and industry awards at state and national level, said the rural enterprises had brought tourists by the busload to their property since opening Simply Tomatoes in 2002.

Aussie Wool Quilts was acquired in 2012 and Marilyn later designed and patented the Woolly warmers.

“It has not been me or Ian ... the whole family and our workers have been the amazing ones,” Marilyn said.

TRAIN travellers have been told to prepare for slower travel times on hot days this summer.

The heat timetable was in place on the Swan Hill line on Tuesday for trains stopping at Pyramid Hill and Dingee.

“Extreme heat speed restrictions are enforced when temperatures exceed 36 degrees in order to reduce the likelihood of train and track faults, while also keeping passengers safe,” V/Line said.

“When an extreme heat timetable is in place, journey times may be extended by a few minutes as we reduce the speed of our trains.

There will be drinking water on board trains and passengers are also encouraged to travel with bottled water and wear cool clothing. Temperatures are forecast to hit the high 30s this weekend.

Marilyn and Ian Lanyon in the Country Shop. LH PHOTO “Family has been the backbone and that’s pretty important.”

Ian said: “Marilyn started all this and she became very well known.”

“Everything was made at the farm until we opened the shop in Godfrey Street a couple of years ago. “We had tourist busses coming and we started an RV camp site. People liked

coming to the farm.” The shop opening was a response to COVID restrictions. “We couldn’t have visitors so we opened the shop to keep bringing people to Boort,” he said.

Ian said the growth of Aussie Wool Quilts has seen Boortmade products sent around Australia.

“The arrival of online web-

sites for sales certainly helped that,” he said.

With Ian and Marilyn handing the Simply Tomatoes reigns to Damien, he now oversee the hand-picking of green tomatoes ready for a four-day process of being preserved in a salt and vinegar brine and finished off in extra virgin olive oil, oregano and garlic.

Nikki Barraclough wrote: All the very best Marilyn and Ian! Enjoy a well deserved retirement, after all your hard work, dedication and Housing estate talks success.

Rosalie Evans wrote: Your upcoming retirement is well and truly deserved. Your businesses and enthusiasm is to be admired LODDON Shire councillors have held confidential talks on a second stage of the Wedderburn housing estate in Ridge Street.

The December meeting went ‘in camera” to discuss the item.

Council’s 2021-2025 plan lists starting a detailed assessment and costing of the proposal to maximise “opportunities to grow our population by taking advantage of all available development opportunities to expand the existing urban footprint”.

and has brought so many tourists to Boort and surrounding district.

KINGOWER’S NICK LEACH BACK AT CREASE Bev Taig wrote: Well done Nick great effort to be playing cricket again.

Elissa Wilson wrote: Great to have you back Nick.

Brenda Woodfield wrote: Fantastic to see Nick.

Q9 clue

ANSWERS 1. Helsinki 2. Venus and Mars 3. Leonardo da Vinci 4. Four 5. Hazelnut 6.

Nine 7. Tin 8. Fruit 9. Charles Dickens 10. McCallister 11. 118 elements 12.

The WACA 13. Pompeii 14. Britain 15. Poinsettia 16. 1929 17. The King of Rock and Roll 18. Orange 19. Bethlehem 20. Christmas Day

12 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 14, 2023

ulation and video footage to show the five-time football premiership player Adam Postle was in training with a canoe to take on the rapids of the Loddon River and Serpentine Creek.

Or was he kicking with the tide?

mints is clearly the stuff of Christmas legends.

B

RADLEY from Boort has not been letting the tinsel grow under the Christmas table or forgetting the holly and the ivy and snoozing on the couch this week. Straight from one festive serving to another, he has also found time to erect a new sign on the Treemendous tree out there on the BoortDurham Ox road. Such fortitude in raiding the jars of chocolates, jubes and

W

HILE the flood put a bit of a dampener on Christmas Day for some, the frolics at Wedderburn’s Donaldson Park had some asking whether the North Central league had introduced a new code of sport to sit alongside football, netball and hockey.

In jest perhaps, but the hockey pitch underwater was suggested as the ideal arena for the introduction of water polo. Who knows, there was even spec-

W

HILE Santa had a bit of a break after dodging wind, sleet and all that over the weekend, we reckon the local butchers also caught up on some lost 40 winks. They had hams trotting out the door at break-neck speed right until closing the doors for Christmas.

D

URING THE festive coverage in the pages of the Loddon Herald, we tried to capture every bright shirt worn. If it was loud and colourful, the wearer was a sure focus for our photographs.

O

VER in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s the jumper that comes in all shapes, styles and colours. You could say they are different to the T. No one really knows who invented the Christmas jumper, however, it has a long history that dates back to the 19th century. Which country did Christmas jumpers originate from? Christmas jumpers can be traced back to Iceland and Scandinavia where they were knitted by hand to keep people warm during the winters. But those 19th century jumpers would have been tame affairs compared with today.

A

ND then there are boxer shorts.

Heard about a few families unwrapping (read, tearing) the wrapping to find matching sets at the weekend.

A

ND NOW, for Take 2, OTF will be off for a little break.

14 | Loddon HERALD Thursday December 28, 2023

Wool buyer

PUBLIC NOTICES

for sale 2019 Franklin Arrow 19’6” Caravan - $63,990

Cash payments On-farm appraisals 92 Rowena Street, East Bendigo Ph 5406 0629

Yung Balug Keeping Place The Museum is situated on the property of Paul & Cathie Haw.

As new condition. Includes café seating, full oven and cooktop, Dometic three-way fridge and filtered water tap. Full ensuite with large shower, toilet and top load washing machine. Queen bed with under bed storage, wardrobes with drawers, Ibis Mk3 reverse cycle air conditioner, two 12-volt fans, LED lighting throughout, Winegard TV antenna. Full battery management system with two 170w solar panels. Gas heating, full annex with extra-large windows, anti-flap kit, custom made privacy screens. Factory extended chassis with toolbox on front, gas bayonet, full front tunnel, rear generator hatch, reversing camera and wiring harness. Two 95lt water tanks, one 95lt grey water tank. Always shedded.

Available April 4th, 2024.

Location -Charlton Ph 0418 323 940

Well worth a visit to see the amazing Artefacts collected from the Boort Region.

A recent addition is 34 photos taken by John Hunter Kerr in the 1850s. This was made possible by the State Library of Victoria.

Everyone is welcome. but please call or Email before visiting.

Phone - 0417 333 171 Email - paulcathiehaw@gmail.com

wanted to buy WANTED TO BUY Old bottles with town or company names.

Marble bottles, Ginger Beer, Milk Bottles, Soda Syphons Any old bottles - single items or box lots

Inglewood-Bridgewater Sub Branch

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

CASH PAID ON DAY Phone 0452 264 661

Memberships for 2024 are now due.

Service Members $10.00 Affiliate Members $10.00 Social Members $10:00 For your card to remain current can you please renew before 20th December 2023.

To renew your membership please contact our Membership Officer Stephen Gartside at the Inglewood Emporium.

Our last run will be on Friday 22nd of December 2023, and we will return on Monday 15th of January 2024.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas

ADVERTISER HERE - $66 A MONTH

Loddon HERALD December 28, 2023 | 15

SPORT IN BRIEF Junior coaches HALEY Smith and Emily Glenister will share under 14 netball coaching duties for Wedderburn this season. Cass Marr has been appointed to coach the minkey hockey program.

Pies’ panel BOORT last week named its 2024 netball coaching panel with Georgia Haw taking charge of the A and B Grade teams. Premiership coach Brooke Arnold has charge of the C Grade team while Roxy Train will coach the under 17s with Kristen Gooding, Tracey Bird, Tayla Gooding and Carly Isaac sharing the role for the under 14s and the junior program.

Season launch

When The Oracle’s charges ruled roost LODDON sports identity Glenn Catto has trumpeted the achievements of what he calls one of the region’s best bunch of junior footballers and the mark they made in senior ranks.

Catto, known as The Oracle, has produced a photograph of the Loddon Valley under 17 side he coached to defeat neighbouring leagues more than 20 years ago.

“We had some fantastic young players running around in the Loddon Valley league

at the turn of the century,” Catto said. “They went on to be more than handy players and showed hallmarks that I see today in the batch of young Loddon Valley players coming up through the ranks.”

“These blokes played with local clubs and some went further ... all were products of the rich local scene.”

Catto was assisted in 2001 by Glenn Ray with Brian Gladman, who would serve as league president, the runner.

Members of the squad were: I Wardell, J Coghlan, D. Coghlan, D Smith, J. Grieves, C Gloury, B. Hunt, B. Schodde, D Rose, E Rochester, D. Watts, N. Harris, L. Cavanagh, N. Saunders, T. Heppell, N. Grumley, M. Frankel, L. Mitchell, J. Phillips, J. Bowden, C. Poole, B. Comer, D. Holland, E. Bayliss, B. Metelmann, T. Collins, M. Tully, A. Davies, E. Ervin, J. Pashley, R. Stevens, J. Rawnsley, B. Scott, B. Sleeman, S. Wilkinson and J. Gladman.

NEW Inglewood coach Fergus Payne will unveil the 2024 Blues at a season launch in February.

Payne will be in his first season as coach of the Loddon Valley league side.

Demon chiefs CALIVIL has appointed Hayley Fawcett to coach its A Grade netballers in the new season. Maddy McGowan will have charge of B Grade, Alex Ingram the under 17s, Karen Pascoe the under 15s, Bec Cullen the under 13s and Michelle Balic the minis.

New Year tournament STRONG entries are expected for Monday’s tournament and official opening of the new synthetic green at Calivil Bowls Club.

Loddon HERALD

TOP 20 PITCH STAR

VERSATILE junior cricketer Allira James has stamped herself in the top tier of junior Victorian country cricketers.

The 14-year-old Serpentine player last week helped take the Northern Rivers representative side to second place at the Cricket Victoria Country Cup tournament in Albury.

In her second year of cricket and earning selection despite not having played a game since August last year when she ruptured her ACL playing netball for Bears Lagoon Serpentine, Allira finished the tournament in country Victoria’s top 20 with bat and ball.

Allira was ninth on the bowling table and 12th with the bat.

A right-arm fast bowler, Allira finished with 3-15 in the tournament’s second game.

“I enjoy batting, bowling and fielding,” Allira said on Tuesday as she prepares for another big fortnight of representative cricket.

She will be one of the youngest players in the Bendigo association side competing in Bendigo Country Week starting next Tuesday and then following up in the country cup finals in Melbourne on January 7. And Al-

lira has just been selected to train with Melbourne Premier League women’s club Plenty Valley.

“I hope to gain selection in the Plenty Valley side this season,” she said.

“I am travelling down to Melbourne for training twice a week.”

Allira started playing cricket three years ago. “My brother Lachlan was with the Bendigo club’s under 14 side and they suggested I might like to have a go and I had been part of the Masterblasters under 12 program.

“At first I said no and decided, why not and then was selected to play in the under 14 girls’ side at Country Week.”

The East Loddon P12 College student, who starts Year 9 in 2024, sees future development as a cricketer.

“I’ve played goal defence and goalkeeper in netball ... but cricket might take over as the sport (for me),” she said.

Allira hopes her form at Country Week will build on achievements of recent weeks with bat and ball.

Said mum Nicky: “We think her achievements are pretty impressive given her age and the devastating ACL injury and think her story might encourage other young girls to chase their dreams, even after significant setbacks.”

sport

Thursday December 28, 2023

Serpentine youngster Allira James is starring with bat and ball in country Victorian junior cricket tournaments. AP PHOTO