Loddon Herald 30 September 2021

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Loddon HERALD Vol 1 No 36 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2021 ISSN 2653-1550

JACKIE AND FRED FLOAT THROUGH THE SPRING SUN JACKIE Grant and her horse Fred were basking in the spring sun at Kurting on Sunday when Inglewood Riding Club members attended a horsemanship rally.

The local riders received instruction from David Mellor who is influenced by Vaquero style horsemanship and old-style classical dressage training.

During the afternoon, riders were instructed in the calm loading and unloading of horses in floats.

Jackie and Fred were pleased as punch after their run up and down the float ramp.

Fred even co-operated when it came tIme for his photo to be LH PHOTO taken.

$35M EGG LIFT MORE than 26 million eggs a year will be produced at Newbridge after approval on Tuesday to expand chicken breeding production by Hazeldene’s.

Loddon Shire councillors ticked off on the projected $35 million

expansion application by one of the nation’s largest and leading poultry companies.

Hazeledene’s chief executive officer Mark Heintz said construction of 16 new sheds would start within weeks and lead to an increase in staff at the farm on Laanecoorie-Newbridge road by 20 full-time employees.

“In construction we will use as

much local labour as we can to complete the project,” he said.

“The whole concept is to meet growth driven by market demand.”

The sheds will be built over the next five years. Mr Heintz said the three new farms, each with four sheds, would produce on average 510,000 eggs per week or on average 26 million eggs a year.

Eggs from the Newbridge site, currently with four sheds, will be hatched in Bendigo.

Approval of the expanded breeder production farm comes as builders complete the first stage of expansion at Southern Riverlands Poultry’s Boort farm. where low-density, free-range breeding will increase to more than one million birds, meeting

RSPCA bare bird requirements, supplied to Hazeldene’s.

Two objections were received to the Newbridge expansion.

Cr Dan Straub said expansion would boost the shire’s population and economic development.

Cr Linda Jungwirth said the application met requirements for a farming zone and would bring benefits to the district.

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2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021

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CATTERED around the Loddon are signs with messages of humour and optimism - local businesses dispensing doses of amusement for customers even in these times of challenge and the unknown. We’ve seen some great ones the last couple of weeks - “Dan says no entry but I can go get the stock for you” wrote one lateral thinking local business finding ways to keep the doors open and customers happy.

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HIS got us looking for signs of humour amid never-ending COVID and we’re pleased to report, the offerings are plentiful. Two of the best must surely be “Husband for Sale” hung from a European city balcony by a frustrated and annoyed wife. But spare a thought for two youngsters who made up placards saying “Try Being Quarantined ... with the principal” as home learning took on an added dimension.

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HE SHARING of whacky COVID placards on the internet, prompted a couple of local lads to delve deeper into the depths of road sign research. They were chatting, at the bar as they do on a regular basis even in these restricted times, that despite their prevalence, kangaroo crossings have been named among the top 10 weirdest road signs in the world in a list compiled by car rental experts. “What might be a common sight to drivers in one part of the world, such as a mob of kangaroos hopping across a road ahead, can be a major shock to someone visiting from another country,” said one car company.

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HERE was another Australian entry on the list - a set of quiz signs along a road in southeast Western Australia that has no corners for 14km. The straight stretch of road between Balladonia and Caiguna is known as the “Fatigue Zone” and the quiz is designed to combat sleepiness. Others to make the top 10 included a crossing warning for a deaf pet cat

in the Netherlands and a sign in India that reads “darling I like you”, among hundreds of drivingrelated proverbs sprinkled across the nation’s mountain areas.

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UT if visitors (remember the days when international tourists would come to Australia ... oh the memories!) are confused with some of our signs, there can be some reverse culture (logic) shock in countries the other side of the world where cobbled streets project the ambience of cities inhabited for many centuries and warn 21st century people of modern dangers in life. There’s a sign in one Danish city warning high-heeled women of the stilettobreaking terrain ahead. In Sweden, a yellow triangle outlined in red serves as a warning, and a diamond outlined in black and white signifies the start of a priority road, which means, on this road, amphibians have the right of way

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ITH international travel still a dream for us, people in New Mexico have their warning signs out for aliens Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway where you can find a sign warning that abducted cows may be ahead.

That’s in the area of the Roswell Event a local belief of cows being killed in UFO landings.

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Robyn Reilly ... helping caravan park visitors be happy. LH PHOTO

Happy little campers BRIDGEWATER Public Caravan Park has put the happy brand on campers to the Loddon River town.

The park has launched its range of souvenirs including Tshirts and other apparel.

Manager Robyn Reilly designed the merchandise brand-

ing that has the tag line “be where I’m a happy camper” and featuring a retro-style caravan.

“People love coming to the Loddon River setting,” Robyn said.

“It’s their special and happy holiday place and I wanted to see that as part of the brand.”

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Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021 | 3

Staley wants care ‘ask’ on table by Christmas PROPOSED solutions to the Loddon’s childcare crisis could be developed by Christmas, according to Ripon MP Louise Staley.

Ms Staley, who has presented in State Parliament a petition signed by more than 700 people, said the local “ask” for action would be given to the Government.

The petition was launched following meetings of parents unable to access childcare in local communities.

The meetings and reports in the Loddon Herald have highlighted the impact on the careers of young mothers and businesses in the region.

Ms Staley said: “Now that the Government is aware of the need for childcare in Loddon, the next step is to work with the communities and council to prepare an ‘ask’ to government.”

“This may not be the same for every town but by Christmas I

Louise Staley would expect to have a proposed solution to the problem presented to the government,” she said.

“As I said at the Wedderburn meeting, all this takes time and it will seem like nothing is happening. But please stay the course, I am confident that if we keep pushing we will get a workable solution.

“I am absolutely committed to it!

Ms Staley said the need for sustainable childcare in the Loddon Shire was overwhelming.

“Reading through impact statements given by parents, grandparents, carers, and teachers,” she said.

“it is clear what expanded childcare in Loddon would mean for families. Young families in the Loddon Shire face impossible choices – either stay home and lose a valued wage earner in the home or lean heavily on friends and family to make up for childcare while they work. Access to childcare is the answer.

“To everyone who signed the petition, collected signatures or shared their story about childcare in Loddon, you have started something significant for families in the region.

“You have told the Victorian Government that they must support rural families and help, in particular, young women get back into the workforce with access to childcare.”

Ms Staley told Parliament: “The issue of the lack of child care, both for small children and for before- and after-school care, is endemic and at crisis levels across the Loddon shire.

“We have many, many examples. For example, there are two teachers at Wedderburn secondary college who cannot teach at the moment because they cannot get child care for their children.

“This is an issue of access. It is not an issue of the subsidies that the federal government pro-

Town battles to avoid book’s last page turn A LODDON community library could close by Christmas without more support from district bookworms.

The Tarnagulla library, based in the town’s community centre, has been battling to attract more users since before the COVID pandemic.

And local library co-ordinator Linda Jungwirth said without more patronage, support of the community centre library

by Bendigo-based Goldfields Library Corporation could end.

“We need to increase patronage to justify the time and cost,” said Linda, who is also the ward councillor.

The library is currently open on Mondays between 2pm and 3pm when Gold-

fields Library staff visit, bringing new stocks of books and titles ordered online for local library users.

The Friday session between 2pm and 4.30pm is run by local volunteers and incorporates a craft session.

“The library isn’t just for Tarnagulla but also for people from Newbridge, Rheola and other areas in the district. All they need is a membership card to borrow from the Tarnagulla library,” she said. “I love libraries and we’re making a last-ditch effort to keep our town’s library open and lift user numbers before December.

“Goldfields Library are more than happy to keep supporting us if we get the numbers.”

vides; this is about facilities and access.

“It is absolutely a State Government responsibility. As we have seen in other parts of my electorate where we have had some success, rural communities have changed, and they need child care and they need childminding services.

“As a result, we are going to have a lot more of these petitioners coming to the government and demanding action so they have equitable access.”

A community working group in Wedderburn is proposing an early years centre as the only realistic inclusive option to end the region’s child care crisis, Wedderburn College Danny Forrest has said the Loddon campaign wanted to achieve an inclusive solution.

“We want to be inclusive.

Anything other than an early years’ centre is only a Band-Aid, a short-term fix and then only for a few,” he said. “We need long-term strategic thinking and the investments in assets for the future of local communities.”

The Loddon’s childcare crisis has also had communities in Boort, Inglewood and Bridgewater discussing their needs.

IN BRIEF Furniture missing OUTDOOR tables and chairs have disappeared from Boort District School. Deputy principal Tom Bleicher said Year 12 students realised they were missing when returning from the last lockdown.

He said the parents’ club had offered to assist with replacement of the furniture.

The disappearance has been reported to police who are investigating.

Summer ready RHEOLA Fire Brigade is urging people to prepare for summer by cutting grass and weeds. For burns, register online at Firepermits Victoria or ring our call takers on 1800 668 511. “That will stop us getting called to false alarms if someone sees your smoke,” the brigade says.

RSL anger WEDDERBURN-KORONG Vale RSL has condemned protests at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance.

“The use of the Shrine, one of our most sacred of all places, for the purpose of protest is nothing short of disgraceful. The Shrine is where we honour the memory of those who died fighting for our freedom. We don’t gather there to trample on their memories in the name of anarchy,” the sub-branch said in a statement.

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021

The cutest cupcakes YOU can bank on Deb Forster’s cute cupcakes and other home-made wonders at the Coffee Bank in Pyramid Hill.

Deb is celebrating 10 years of owning the coffee shop, sharing her gastronomic creations with customers from across the Loddon and much further.

A qualified baker, Deb uses recipes researched and refined and is now preparing to hand them on to son Raidan who has started an apprenticeship with his mother.

“Everything is home-made ... I like home-made food and it’s a favourite with our customers,” Deb said.

She rates the Coffee Bank’s carrot cake and cupcakes as among the favourites.

The Coffee Bank says its cupcakes are in fact the sweetest and the cutest “sprinkled just right” with hundreds and thousands.

The Coffee Bank was established in 2008 in the town’s former National Aus-

tralia Bank building, right on the main street.

As soon as you step in the door, the 1960s’ decor and quirky little touches greet you.

“We pride ourselves on homemade cooking, great coffee and friendly service,” Deb said.

“Our outdoor area is always popular in the warmer weather.

“The Coffee Bank is truly an oasis,” Deb said.

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021 | 5

‘Vax economy’ wait for Loddon LODDON communities have missed the chance of being among the first regional areas to kickstart what the State Government has dubbed the “vaccinated economy”.

Local government areas to the north and south of Loddon - Buloke and Greater Bendigo have been included in the Government’s trial of business and event patron numbers from October 11.

Sunday’s announcement did

not include details on the process to select six local government areas for the trial where double-vaccinated people are granted more freedoms. However, vaccination rates and no or low COVID cases were a criteria.

Local hospitality businesses are expressing frustration that patron caps remain and that will be required to police QR codes, vaccination status amid low density numbers.

“It’s not worth opening up for

the small numbers currently allowed,” one said at the weekend.

Dee Slatter, of Boort’s Godfrey and Bear, said: “We must not allow our beautiful community to become divided and we think kindness and love is most important in the current climate,” Under the Government’s trial, Loddon residents will have freedom to dine at selected Bendigo venues but not in Bridgewater, attend community events in Charlton but not Wedderburn.

Strong demand for the Moderna jab

THERE had been a good and positive update to the Moderna vaccine since supplies arrived in Boort last week, said local pharmacist Daniel Snyder.

He said the pharmacy had been busy dispensing the vaccines.

“There had been quite a few people who were waiting for the release of Moderna to have their vaccination,” Daniel said.

“And there continues to be a positive uptake for vaccination in the district.

Meanwhile, the Wedderburn pharmacy is expecting its first supplies of Moderna next Tuesday.

The pharmacy has started taking bookings for the Moderna, an mRNA vaccine, available through community pharmacies for people aged between 12 and 59 However, Inglewood Pharmacy is still waiting for news on its application to be part of the national rollout.

The State Government has linked vaccination rates to further easing of restric-

tions in metropolitan and regional Victoria.

Victoria passed its first threshold on Tuesday when more than 80 per cent of residents had received their first vaccine dose.

Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton had declared that from 11.59pm Tuesday there would be a modest easing to restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria under the Roadmap.

In regional Victoria, outdoor settings for restaurants and cafes have had their outdoor venue cap increased from 20 to 30 people.

Masks may be removed if the service requires it in hair and beauty salons, so facials and beard trimmings can resume.

Vaccinations are available at multiple locations across the Loddon including health services, GP clinics and pharmacies. Testing is also available at Boort and Inglewood.

The trials will cover hospitality, hairdressing, beauty services and tourism businesses, and events such as race meetings, community celebrations and concerts – allowing higher patron numbers with all attendees confirmed as being fully vaccinated.

“These trials are an important step as we move towards a vaccinated economy,” said Premier Daniel Andrews on Sunday. The Government also promised a second phase of trials.

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New community fund call MURRAY PLAINS MP Peter Walsh wants a $10 million fund to get community sport back on its feet.

Mr Walsh said after “seemingly endless” yo-yo lockdowns, grassroots sporting clubs across regional Victoria have suffered 18 months of cancellations, ripping the soul out of much-loved outlets for communities.

He said participant and volunteer bases have been eroded and facilities and equipment left unused and gathering dust – which was why the Victorian Liberal Nationals was promoting the need for a club level program. “Many sporting clubs now face significant financial pressures

and need additional support to restart in time for the coming summer season and beyond,” Mr Walsh said.

“Under this new (proposed) funding program, individual sporting clubs could apply for up to $50,000 in funding towards kick-starting operations and supporting ongoing financial viability “Local clubs significantly contribute to the physical and mental health of hundreds of thousands of sportspeople, volunteers and families across the state and most of them have lost significant revenue through sponsorship, gate takings and fundraisers. Act now to have a COVID-Safe summer season of local sport.”

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6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021

‘Lone ranger’ protest in ’roo campaign

A CENTRAL Victorian animal rights activist says his one-man protest on Friday against plans for a kangaroo pet meat processing facility at Inglewood is the start of a wider campaign.

Glynn Jarrett, of Bendigo, said he was also organising a protest by “regional animal welfare and wildlife volunteers, and just normal everyday people” for tomorrow.

The Animal Justice Party member, who says he is a former Inglewood resident, also said he would take his solo protests to other towns in the Loddon Shire.

Mr Jarrett is part of an online community protesting against the permit application by Campaspe Meats to initially process up to 1000 kangaroos a week at the former abattoirs in Inglewood, creating 10 jobs.

Kangaroos processed at the Inglewood facility would be harvested under Government culling programs in Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales, the company has said.

Mr Jarrett said his protest last Friday received “a mixed response which was what I expected, a few sneers, and also a few thumbs up, I was not expecting to be made welcome.”

“When I was in Inglewood itself, I did have a respectable chat with a local gent, from which I

am sure we both learnt a lot. I was able to calmly explain my concerns, and he took them on board, and he was quite surprised at some of the information I was able to share,” he said.

“As a former resident of Inglewood (I still live in the region), I later contacted a local couple I know.

“Unfortunately, they, like an Inglewood retail business woman I know, were not willing to go public and protest themselves as they are afraid of a negative backlash from others, especially local customers, as one said, sorry Glynn, we have to live here. I accept and respect that,” Mr Jarrett said he respected the planning processes required by councillors, and “I fully respect that if council said no to a planning application on weak grounds it could get overturned

by VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal”.

“I respect that there are parameters in which the Councillors have to act,” he said.

“My message to the councillors, is about asking them to have the courage to stand up and say, this proposed wildlife processing facility is morally wrong, even though it might legally be allowed,” he said. “ I believe the council would better serve the community by

Dog of a night ... but tipsters are smiling THE drubbing of Western Bulldogs on Saturday night when Melbourne broke their 57-year flag drought left some footy fans across the Loddon deflated.

The Dogs were clearly the local favourite with flags, streamers and balloons being proudly displayed before the game in many towns.

But for at least two locals, sentiment played no role in their successes during the 2021 AFL season.

At the home of local Bulldogs, Matty Down scooped more than $2000 for winning the Pyramid Hill Victoria Hotel’s tipping competition.

Publican Paul Carter said 19 budding tipsters were part of the season’s fun but Swans’ fan Matty kept his focus to win from Andrew Quaife 139 to 133.

Picking up some prizemoney for there dubious match predictions were Jack Walters and Brodie Down who finished on the bottom with 54.

But at Inglewood’s Empire State Hotel, Gary House had no intention of emulating the sea-

developing ecotourism opportunities and innovative means of encouraging cohabitation with wildlife. This would put Loddon on the map for all the right reasons.”

Mr Jarrett claimed the support of a community of concerned citizens and organisations “but I have, and I will continue to partake in my own solo protests as I did on Friday”.

“This is me, satisfying my own conscience in that I must do something. I am a proud member of the Animal Justice Party, but I am not formally representing them with these protests.

“I want to create awareness, and have people discussing this and learning the truth for themselves. In future I will become a regular sight, across many parts of Loddon Shire, maybe Pyramid Hill next week.

“I cannot speak for others, but if the facility comes into being, I will continue to make myself heard, I will not just walk away and shrug my shoulders.”

Mr Jenkins previously stood as an Animal Justice Party candidate at the 2018 state election.

The application is being assessed by council officers. When completed, the application will go to a future meeting of council for consideration..

RATE INSTALMENT DUE TODAY

Double the information A NEW community information board will soon be installed at Newbridge.

Loddon Shire Council has removed the old information board opposite the town’s hall

and says the replacement will be double sided, allowing for the display of more information. Replacement is under the town’s community planning project.

Loddon Shire Council is now receiving nominations for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Community Group/Event of the Year awards. These awards are acknowledgement of outstanding Australians and community groups within the Loddon Shire.

Future instal payment payments are due on 30 November, 28 February and 31 May. To be recognised as an instalment payer, the first instalment must be paid on or before 30 September.

The first instalment can be paid using your original rate notice. Reminder notices are sent for each subsequent instalment; however, it is the responsibility of the ratepayer to pay the instalments on time.

Instalment amounts and payment dates are shown on the original rate notice.

Payments can be made at Council’s website, at Council offices, or at any Post Office. Direct debit is also available by completing the Direct Debit Application Form on Council’s website.

Smoothie Bikes now available in Loddon!

Use pedal power to create lovely fresh and healthy smoothies at your next community event.

The Loddon Healthy Minds Network has two Smoothie Bikes available for community groups and agencies in Loddon Shire to use at events promoting mental health and wellbeing.

For more information on the hire conditions and to make a booking: www.loddonhealthyminds.com.au/.../122-smoothie-bikes

The criteria and eligibility for these awards requires an outstanding achievement or contribution towards the values such as a fair go, a concern for the environment, desire for prosperity with a share for all, participation in sport, cultural diversity, the importance of strong community values and support systems and a keen sense that we have a contribution to make on the world stage.

Loddon Shire is also now receiving nominations for the 2021 Community Service Awards. Eligibility for these awards requires an outstanding contribution to the local community over the 2021 year, or giving noteworthy service to the local community over a number of years. There is an award for each Ward (Boort, Inglewood, Tarnagulla, Terrick and Wedderburn) and they will be presented on Australia Day 2022.

Please provide as much supporting information as you can, as this will assist the Committee in the evaluation of candidates.

Nominations for the awards close on Friday 29 October 2021. Nomination forms and further information may be obtained from Council’s website, or by email at australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au.

WEDDERBURN

SERPENTINE

41 High Street Wedderburn 3515

37 Peppercorn Way Serpentine 3516

T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003

T: 5494 1202 F: 5437 8407

Open to the public, subject to

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

COVID-19 restrictions Cr Wendy Murphy Inglewood Ward 0436 457 170

son fate of his favoured North Melbourne.

He won the tipping with 126, a single game ahead of Chris House with Rose House, Eva McLean and Wayne Morley a further point behind.

Some hotels put their annual tipping stoushes on ice this year because of lockdowns that prevented pundits from their weekly analysis before locking in tips.

Australia Day award nominations

The quarterly instalment for rate payments is today, Thursday 30 September.

Mayor Cr Neil Beattie Boort Ward 0427 552 468

Matty Downs

Cr Linda Jungwirth Tarnagulla Ward 0428 259 082

Cr Dan Straub Terrick Ward 0429 236 399

Cr Gavan Holt Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm

E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021 | 7

It’s never you, until it is.

More people die on farms than in other workplaces – let’s change that.

Every death and injury on any farm is preventable.

You might think you’re bulletproof and an accident won’t happen to you.

You know your land like the back of your hand.

You know your tools, your machinery, your vehicles.

But accidents can happen to anyone.

At any moment, the worst can happen.

At any moment, it could be you.

You can prevent accidents. You can prevent deaths. worksafe.vic.gov.au/agriculture

Scan for farm safety support.

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021

Backing for business ideas

LODDON residents can participate in a new Startup Central Victoria initiative offering free virtual programs for aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs.

The program is for businesses in six council areas, including Loddon,with new ideas or looking to expand markets Funded by Regional Development Victoria the program will connect businesses with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, developers and designers.

La Trobe University Innovation and Entrepreneurship partners have come on board to deliver Startup Central Victoria’s two Accelerator Programs.

The first virtual/hybrid 12week accelerator program begins later next month with schedules to suit participants and enable them to commit to eight hours per week.

Streams will cater for early stage founders and businesses, development for startups looking to create, test and validate their offering, and an advanced stream for businesses seeking to scale up nationally and internationally.

Startup Central Victoria’s other free virtual events this year include an opportunities’ forum today and Hackathon from October 15 to October 17 forindividuals and teams who have a business idea or interested in seeing how a new business can be built in just a weekend.

Week of wet days forecast HEAVY rains and winds have been forecast for much of Victoria, including the Loddon, into next week.

The week of wet days was due to start yesterday with intermittment breaks tipped for Saturday.

The chance of rain on other days is at 90 per cent.

Rains could take the year’s fall to more than 500mm, Figures are currently within a few millimetres of averages.

Show entries about to close

POLICE are investigating the dumping of an unregistered sedan after it crashed into a tree on the Calder Highway overnight Wednesday last week. They said the smash happened at Teddy Bears Lane, Wedderburn, and no items had been left in the vehicle. No occupants were at the scene when police responded to a report.

ORGANISERS are expecting a steady flow of entries in coming days for the Boort Show’s virtual competitions.

Entries close early next week for writing, photography and Lego competitions as the show society aims to keep the community connected again in 2021.

The society was forced to cancel the show for a second year because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Creative weekend showcasing local artists LODDON artists, makers, creators and local businesses will share their creativity with the shire’s first arts trail weekend next month..

The trail on October 23 and 24 has been created by artists and is a joint project between Arts of

Olde in Bridgewater and Loddon Shire Council.

Artist Ainsley McPherson, who owns the Arts of Olde art gallery and gift shop, said the idea for the arts trail initially came via Bendigo. “Bendigo was having an arts trail, and a couple of us here

Too many workers face this every day It’s never ok

worksafe.vic.gov.au/itsneverok

in the Loddon Shire inquired as to whether we could be part of that trail,” she said.

“Unfortunately, because we didn’t live in the City of Greater Bendigo, we were unable to take part in the arts trail.

“So we thought – ‘why not do

our own arts trail? There are plenty of artists around here’.

“We put the idea to council’s tourism staff Robyn Vella and Shelby Hutchinson, and they said “why not?”

Watch out for more updates in the Loddon Herald next week.

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021 | 9

Legendary Ray can still clip the fleece RAY Tonkin is something of a shearing legend in the Loddon and at age 92, showed he can still handle sheep and comb.

When students at the Wedderburn shearing school were heading into the final hours of instruction this month, Ray joined in and skilfully separated fleece from skin.

It’s something he first did as a 15-yearold at the first of 25 years working the shearing stands across Victoria and New South Wales before classing for merino studs.

“It (*shearing) is a fully fledged industry these days,” Ray said.

“The young people at the school were a good batch and the instructors these days, they are real teachers.

“This helps maintain the industry. It’s certainly here to stay even if grain growing has become more popular than running sheep.”

When Ray started “we’d be lucky to earn what today would be about 50 cents a sheep ... they were big tough wethers in those days and hard to handle”.

“Now the skin is so much smoother and that helps with the shearing,” he said.

“There’s certainly been some big improvements in the equipment available to today’s shearers compared with what we had all those years ago.”

Ray’s feat on the shearing stand this month received acclaim for the next generation who marvelled at skills he starting learning more than 70 years ago.

SHEARING LEGEND: Ray Tonkin can still put the comb through fleece. LH PHOTO

SHEEP AND CATTLE THERE was a slight lift lamb in lamb numbers to 20,000 head at Bendigo on Monday, 2000 more than last week.

Young unshorn lambs now make up 90 per cent of the yarding, and quality did improve this week with the lead runs showing more carcass finish and hardness as the season matures.

All the regular buyers attended, and the sale opened dearer before easing. Heavy young lambs over 26kg cwt were the most eagerly sought, and about 18 pens sold from $300 to a top of $325 - the most sales above $300/head this centre has seen.

Heavy young lambs did record the highest carcass price averages ahead of the trade lamb categories which trended cheaper than a week ago.

The heaviest young lambs from $275 to a top of $325/head at an estimated cost of 1020c/kg cwt.

The majority of young lambs coming through were trade weights which sold in a price bracket of $220 to $270/head to processors.

The best fat score 4 crossbreds in the 24kg to 26kg cwt range averaged $260, and the size down at 22kg to 24kg averaged $238/head.

The estimate for the bulk of sales was 920c to 970c/kg cwt.

Ballarat restockers stepped into bigger lambs this week, paying to $235/head for trade lambs to shear.

The bulk of the more genuine sized store lambs, 16kg to 20kg cwt, sold from $155 to $198 to the paddock, while very small young lambs made $115 to $145/ head.

Very few decent lines of old lambs were available, and sold according to quality and presentation but were generally cheaper.

Few less sheep numbers with 7\000 yarded. Buying was dominated by a northern-based processor at rates $10 to $30/head dearer.

Heavy sheep sold from $180 to a top

GRAIN BOORT Grain Co-op prices on Tuesday.

Wheat: H1 $321. H2 $321.

APW1 $319. ASW $314.

Barley: PL1 $235, SP1 $235.

BAR1 $235.

New crop: APW MG $322.

BAR1 MG $247. Non-GM Canola $903 +/- AOF. Faba beans No1: $395.

of $240/head for big crossbred ewes. The average run of light and medium mutton sold from $120 to $170/head.

Good lines of sheep were estimated in a range of 620c to 720c/kg cwt.

SUCKERS Strathfillen Past (99) Stuart Mill $325, AL & GJ Lloyd (41) Stuart Mill $321, D & I Gitsham (32) Kerang $319, DJ & ED Lees (70) Rochester $315, Pinelea Farms (12) Pyramid Hill $312, R Caldwell (112) Bunnaloo $311, Strathfillen Past (108) Stuart Mill $307, G & K Lanyon (22) Boort $307, AJ & EJ Chambers (52) Marong $306, ALBR McIntosh (94) Wanalta $306, RJ & CM Condliffe (52) Calivil $301, SN & DA Collins (80) Bridgewater Nth $300, Ben Collins (7) Bridgewater Nth $300, Slater Farming (87) Donald $300, GN Davies (87) Eddington $297, DG & EJ Rathjen (24) Colbinabbin $295, GJ & GM Bremner (60) Quambatook $294, GJ & HJ Chambers & A & E Chambers (41) Marong $292, Lisa Bradley & A & E Chambers (26) Marong $291, G & D Mill (56) Elmore $288, DJ & SL Lloyd (24) Stuart Mill $288, AR & FJ Gorman (46) Sea Lake $288, B Daldy (40) Karramomus $286, GW & ML Curnow (39) Laanecoorie $285, Jacki Brown (90) Colbinabbin $284, TW McCormick (32) Elmore $283, CN & DW Slatter (33) Boort $281, E & Z Stone (17) Shelbourne $277, G & C Canfield (66) Powlett Plains $275, AA Jensen & Son (100) Raywood $274, TB & B Cail (40) Kamarooka $272, Andrew Broad (104) Leichardt $270, GR & SP Seach (46) Longwood $268, Farley Family Trust (56) Derrinal $267, Killara Past (34) Boort $264, Lyndoch Farming (25) Macorna $257, Burnewang Nth Past (119) Rochester $256, ELJ ,KE,AG & K Clarke (79) Rushworth $255, Verge Past (107) Euroa $254, G & K Pink (24) Boort $248, PT & KF Howard (185) Goornong $244, P & T Colvin (67) Powlett Plains $244, Cambrae Invest (86) Bears Lagoon $242, MN Isaac (41) Powlett Plains $240, LJ & PM Cooper (49) Emu Creek $238, RW & AL Baker (103) Dingee $238, G & C McKinnon (71) Pyramid Hill $234, AB & KB Brown (60) Neereman $231, DI & CL Palmer (36) Bawawm $229, JC & LJ Younghusband (64) Powlett $204.

CROSSBRED LAMBS Cazna Park P/L (22) Rochester $340, RH & ML Boyd (21) Jarklin $320, R & B , D & J Pascoe (85) Elmore $290, NW & ER Davis (12) Sutton Grange $286, A & K Twigg (24) Pyramid Hill $260, Louieville P/L (42) Donald $250, S & L Carless (23) Moliagul $248, B & J McCArdle (14) Colbinabbin $244.

MERINO LAMBS O’Shannessey Bros (17) Donald $200, Dresden Park Noms (167) Woodend $190, J & K McNAughton (27) Tatura $188, M Cantwell (87) Wharwarlla $185.

MERINO WETHERS D & S Shay (72) Moliagul $233, RF & MJ Ryan (172) Colbinabbin $220, AJ Isaac (10) Mysia $213, Petrie

Farms given worker housing exemption FARMERS across Victoria can now invest in worker accommodation on their farms without the need for a planning permit, under a streamlined planning approval process adopted by the Victorian Government.

Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas last week announced an amendment to the Victoria Planning Provisions that exempts farm businesses from requiring a planning permit for on-farm accommodation for up to 10 people.

Farming Trust (2) Sutherland $212, TB & B Cail (5) Kamarooka $210, NR & C Burden (40) Boho $210, D & D Hancock (52) Murphy’s Creek $192, WF & BJ Rourke (18) Gower East $175.

MERINO EWES Meadow Valley Farms (39) Mia Mia $230, D Tuohey (42) Gunbower $226, DW Francis (114) Lockington $226, O’Sullivan Trading (139) Elmore $223, ELI , KE,AG & K Clarke (296) Rushworth $215, Everdry P/L (67) Moama $215, GR & H Nankivell (63) Raywood $211, TJ & LA Tobin (23) Costerfield $211, JD & RE Humbert P/L ‘Kedleston Park’ (154) Calivil $210, R & C Coutts (72) Fernihurst $209, Gold Murray Investments (54) $203, Gredgwin Ridge (31) Boort $198, Perkins Petersen & Ryan (40) Newstead $196, Watershed West (65) Watchem $195, Golden Wattle (162) Quambatook $190.

CROSSBRED EWES Jennings Family Trust (48) Baringhup $240, W & H Ladson (69) Mincha West $234, RK & AP Mitchell (57) Milloo $220, PJ & BJ Rothacker (11) Bridgewater $220, RJ & CM Condliffe (9) Calivil $220, BW,JR & RA Baker (31) Sutton Grange $215, C & K Rothacker (6) Mysia $215, T & M Rouston (15) Yarrawalla $212, MN Isaac (70) Powlett Plains $210, TJ & LA Tobin (17) Costerfield $193, Tooborac Past Co (28) Tooborac $188.

RAMS Louieville P/L (1) Donald $150, Retrie Farming Trust (3) Sutherland $108.

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

FOR SALE

By Expression of Interest 783 acres – 316 hectares 2 titles Bael Bael, Lake Boga Road, Mystic Park          

Large 2 bay shed 50’ x 25’ Sound plains country Steel mesh cattle yards Ramp and cattle crush 6 dams Normanville pipeline available not hooked up Scattered shade trees Presently running cows & calves Power passes the property Backs onto the marsh

Expressions of interest close with the selling agents on Thursday the 21st October at 4pm Tender documents available For inspections contact selling agents 10% deposit balance 30 days 69 Wellington Street Kerang 03 5450 3792

34 McCallum Street Swan Hill 03 4016 2005

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Graeme Hayes 0411 338 649

10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021

FEATURES

opinion | quiz

Rural enterprises feed region’s future growth PerSPeCtiVe

By CHRIS EARL FOR generations, agriculture has been the backbone of communities across the Loddon.

That traditional mix of sheep, cattle and crops sustaining farms and families, contributing to the production chain that puts food of the processed and packaged variety onto supermarket shelves.

Farming life is part of the DNA that has sustained the region when challenged by government focus on the capital cities and the eastern seaboard.

There’s been diversification, too, into new and important employment creation with substantial olive groves and the growing of crops like canola.

These are agricultural successes you see driving around any part of the Loddon , marvelling through the seasons of growth and harvest.

But there’s another stunning success story in this region - the rural enterprises expanding or value-adding to that traditional mix.

This week’s approval by Loddon Shire Council of a project $35 million expansion

by Hazeldene’s of its Newbridge hatching farm will greatly increase the Loddon’s stake in the future of broader agriculture and rural-based industry.

Hazeldene’s is based at Lockwood but has a growing footprint in the Loddon Shire with multiple sites including around Newbridge and at Prairie. There’s also the expansion in Boort on the back of Southern Riverland Poultry having a contract with the company.

Across its farming, hatching and processing business, Hazeldene’s produces free-range chicken RSPCA-approved chickens and an extensive range of fresh

and frozen products. The investment by Hazeldene’s will increase the value of the rural sector locally through employment and confidence for the future.

The Loddon Shire’s Settlement Strategy 2019-2034 says: “Agriculture is the economic foundation of the Loddon Shire.

It provides over 1000 jobs (almost half of local employment) and produces over $300 million worth of productivity.

“The opportunity to operate and expand relatively unhindered is fundamental to the ongoing viability of agriculture.

An eclectic mix of products is actually capturing the spectrum of resourcefulness and creativity “The ability to accommodate intensive animal businesses and the required buffers because there is minimal housing development in the rural areas is a competitive advantage of Loddon Shire.

“Over the last five years approval has been granted for a number of large intensive poultry, egg and pig production facilities.

“The north of the Loddon Shire has access to irrigation, and considerable investment has been made in this infrastructure in recent years.

“The large properties in the south of the Loddon Shire are well suited to wool, prime lamb and cereal production. The

South West Loddon Pipeline will enhance agricultural viability and opportunities in the south of the municipality.”

It’s not just chickens where Loddon communities are the beneficiaries of investment and faith in growing, processing and preparing agriculture-based products on small and large scales.

From piggeries to garlic, chillis and safron, what at first glance appears an eclectic mix of products is actually capturing the spectrum of resourcefulness and creativity devoid of inhibition, a display of confidence and ingenuity in the same mould of local agricultural implement pioneers with grand ideas in the 19th century. Only last year, the jump in building permit approval values across the Loddon was in part attributed to more sheds and other storage buildings for the agriculture sector.

Too often, the role of agriculture and its rural-based industries is overlooked when it comes to driving confidence and economic prosperity.

Outside of government and health employment in the Loddon, the broader agriculture sector remains the largest combined single employer in the region.

The rural base is traditional, skills passed from generation to generation and a foundation for any rural reliant enterprise recognising the capacity within local communities to increase production.

Agriculture is a strength, as recognised by council plans and the companies looking to invest in the Loddon. The latter’s faith is grounds for celebration, awareness that a future can be made through blending the traditions of agriculture with the opportunities of today.

Letter to the editor

1. Now that Melbourne have broken their premiership drought, which club now has the longest?

2. Who played Batman in the 1960s TV series of that name?

3. By what other name do we know the killer whale as?

4. Which famous Australian cricketer and cricket commentator passed away in 2015?

5. Who is the creator of the Smurfs?

6. Harrods is a department store in which English city?

7. Louis Armstrong was a jazz performer. As well as being a vocalist, what other instrument did he perform on?

8. When Doctor Who was restarted in 2005, which actor was in the title role?

9. What is Australis’s largest desert?

10. And which two states does that desert span?

11. The Bible has how many books?

12. What does USB (in USB key) stand for?

13. When was the Cancer Council of Australia founded?

14. Where is Furphy beer made?

15. Name the patron saint of animals?

16. How many elements are on the period table of elements?

17. If you have equinophobia, what do you fear?

18. What does an oceanographer do?

19. In which year was the first Apple iPod released?

Sir, The issue of a kangaroo processing facility will impact the entire state and quite possibly other states if it is allowed to go ahead. It’s easy to see why this issue has caused concern far beyond the borders of the Loddon Shire.

Do the council and proponents of the facility really believe that 1000 kangaroos a week can be sourced from their own area? If they do, they need to check the facts about roo numbers from an independent source rather than biased gov-

ernment data, which supports this disgraceful industry.

It’s imperative that Loddon Shire councillors base their decision on facts, not industry propaganda. I urge them to watch the award winning documentary Kangaroo: a love hate story, freely available on SBS On Demand.

This eye-opening doco highlights the true numbers of kangaroos and exposes attempts by governments of both persuasions to promote the slaughter of these gentle creatures as an export trade option in countries such as Russia and the United

States, amongst others. It also belies the claim that kangaroos compete with farm animals for food, and exposes the horrendous cruelty involved in “harvesting” kangaroos.

Why would anyone choose an economy based on the slaughter of our national icon when they could focus on tourism?

The first option risks our international reputation; the second builds our international reputation. It’s a no-brainer really.

Zerin Knight Maiden Gully

20. What is the name of the currency used in Singapore?

ANSWERS 1. St Kilda Saints (55 years). 2. Adam West.

3. Orca. 4. Richie Benaud. 5. Pierre Culliford. 6 London. 7. Trumpet. 8. Christopher Eccleston. 9. Great Victoria Desert.

10. Western Australia and South Australia.

11. 66. 12. Universal Serial Bus. 13. 1961.

14. Geelong. 15. St Francis of Assisi. 16.

118. 17. Horses. 18. They gather information about the ocean through observations, surveys, and experiments. 19. 2001. 20.

Singapore dollar.

Weighing economy

JOIN BLUEY EVERY MONTH WITH FUN AND COMPETITIONS ON HIS PAGE JUST FOR OUR YOUNG READERS Competition entries close at the end of each month by email loddonherald@gmail.com or mail to PO Box 1188 Kangaroo Flat 3555 Winners announced on the second Thursday of the month.

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021 | 11

Shunted to the shed, trains head to ’Burn

FEATURES

By CHRIS EARL

VISITORS to Warren Taylor’s Wedderburn home know they are entering a railway fan’s property.

The first indication is the front gate facing the Calder Highway where rail crossing signs mark the driveway.

There’s also his latest pride and joy - a railway safety wagon built in 1897, consigned to the scrap yard in 1973, saved and restored by Warren and recently installed atop track and ballast.

Warren had seen the wagon advertised for sale at Newlyn where the family of one-time DLP senator John Maddigan was clearing the collection of the blacksmith after his death.

“I said to Lindy (wife), we are going for a drive ... we bought it back in April and got it back to Wedderburn and started cleaning up the wagon, giving it a paint job,” he said.

History saved from the wreckers now standing sentinel near those crossing signs.

Then Warren suggests a visit to his shed - like many man caves, adorned with signs, in this case with a train link of course - where he reveals his amazing miniature recreation of the Wedderburn railway station.

“Using photographs and getting information from locals who remember the buildings and everything that was there, it’s 85 to 95 per cent accurate,” Warren said about his miniature recreation of a once-bustling station precinct that saw its last passenger train in 1941, freight still running for another four decades before the line was closed in 1986.

By then, the original 35.5-metre platform had been reduced to just six metres.

The station precinct then became a storage area for more than 100 livestock wagons waiting to be cut up and sold as scrap.

These days, little remains of the station that welcomed people travelling by train and rail motor on the branch line from Korong Vale, crossing the Calder High-

WEDDERBURN RECREATED: Warren Taylor and his model of the town’s lost railway station. LH PHOTO way for the final kilometres of into town.

Warren said the book Country Branch Lines Victoria and a 1925 photograph of the main station building had been his saviour in planning the model of Wedderburn station.

The detail includes a fourtonne crane, the weighbridge, sheepyards behind the platform, grain silos and the saw mill operated by the Williamsons.

Warren’s love affair with trains began as a youngster riding and exploring the Port Melbourne line after his godfather had given him a model train.

“I think it was when I was about 10, we had a model train set-up and put penny bangers (fireworks) under the bridge as

the locomotive went along,” he said.

He later worked as a shunter in the Melbourne yards and as a driver with Pacific National.

And the painstaking hours put into recreating Wedderburn station or restoring the 1897 safety wagon only continues Warren’s journey with trains.

He has previously made a model of the Whittlesea station and restored a 1952 Chevrolet truck.

Warren, however, still has one more addition to make at the entrance to his property.

A railway station sign is in progress. It will be emblazoned with WARLIN, a special thanks to wife Lindy for her support and encouragement.

Warren with his restored 1897 safety wagon. LH PHOTO

12 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON SHOULD BE

BOOMING REWARD YOURSELF THIS SEASON WORKING IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY (Bar attendants, Food waiting, Food Handlers) EARN GOOD EXTRA MONEY BEFORE YOU GO BACK TO SCHOOL OR OUT OF NORMAL WORK HOURS (9 to 5) JOBS AVAILABLE IN AND AROUND BOORT WEDDERBURN PYRAMID HILL AND KERANG SEND IN FIRST INSTANCE CONTACT INFO TO hospitalityareas@hotmail.com Age is no barrier

Committee members approved MEMBERSHIP of several Loddon Shire asset committees was approved by councillors at their meeting on Tuesday.

Wedderburn Engine Park and Market Square committee includes Bruce Hargreaves (chair/secretary), Trevor Bailey (treasurer) and Barry Bolwell (booking officer).

Ian Potter is chair of Boort Memorial Hall committee with Ken Loader deputy chair, John Vernon secretary and Narelle Vernon treasurer. Cindy Brown is booking officer.

Pyramid Hill Memorial Hall committee includes Ron Peacock (chair), Andrew Scott (deputy chair), Jean Mann (secretary), Kate Wood (treasurer) and Raelene Fletcher (booking officer).

Regional employment VICTORIA’S regional unemployment rate is the lowest on record and lowest among the states, according to the State Govern-

BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES

Give floors a new lease of life LODDON Floor Sanding and Carpentry has become one of the region’s small business success stories since starting just over 18 months ago.

Ian Stringer had spent 30 years as a carpenter and 25 years specialising in floor sanding and installation when he decided to open the business based in Bridgewater and servicing customers across the Loddon and beyond.

“We have been operating for 18 months firstly as a one-man business and we now have two employees,” Ian said.

“I specialise in all aspects of flooring from strip flooring, parquetry, decks, staining and coating.

“And I also specialise in renovating old houses and of course new builds.”

Ian said he enjoyed giving old floors a new lease on life and seeing how much a new floor can change the look of a house.

“It’s satisfying to see the clients’ reactions to the changes to their homes whether it’s a big or small job,” Ian said.

“Improvements to part of the house can make a huge difference to the place they call and make home.”

In 2012, Ian was lucky enough to be awarded the employee of the year for the Australian Timber Flooring Association for his vast range of experience on domestic and commercial worksites in metropolitan and regional Victoria.

It’s that high level of skill and service that Ian now brings to customers of Loddon Floor Sanding and Carpentry.

And when Ian’s not out on the job around the region, Ian enjoys spending time with his family, riding the bike and water skiing on the local Loddon River.

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

IN BRIEF ment. Australian Bureau of Statistics data last week showed the regional unemployment rate declined 1.1 per cent to 3.2 per cent in the three months to August 2021.

Community survey BRIDGEWATER on Loddon Development committee is currently surveying the town’s residents. Suggestions will be collated and form part of the town’s community plan.

Nature on show LOCAL field naturalists are reporting a good showing of wildflowers at Kooyoora State Park this spring, including an impressive stand of Pink Fingers - Caladenia carnea. And birdlife is also plentiful with a sighting of a collared sparrowhawk last week.

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021 | 13

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

PubLIC NOTICES

MEETINGS

Louise STALEY MP

Mysia Recreation Reserve

LIBERAL MEMBER FOR RIPON

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

LouiseStaleyRipon

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

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

This book needs to be read and wherever possible understood

Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan open for comment The draft Loddon Health and Wellbeing Plan has four key themes:    

Good physical health Good mental health Protect and promote health Feel safe and secure

Each theme has priority focus areas and outcomes identified that will contribute to us being healthy and well. To achieve this, services and agencies across Loddon will work together to deliver this plan.

Draft Community Vision and Council Plan Loddon Shire Council has prepared a draft Community Vision and Council Plan in accordance with sections 88 and 90 of the Local Government Act 2020 and in consultation with its Community Reference Group and the community. The draft is now advertised to seek feedback from the community on this final draft.

Copies will be available for viewing at Council’s Wedderburn office or on Council’s website: https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/Our-Council/ Documents-for-public-comment Copies are also available to be posted on request by calling Council’s Customer Service office on (03) 5494 1200.

A copy of the background information and the identified focus areas and outcomes is available for viewing at Council’s Wedderburn office, or on Council’s website: https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/Our-Council/ Documents-for-public-comment Use one of the below options to let us know what you think by Friday 8 October:  visit Council’s website: https://www.loddon. vic.gov.au/Our-Council/Documents-for-publiccomment and provide comment online by clicking on the “Submit your comment” link  via email to loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au  via post to: Loddon Shire Council, PO Box 21, Wedderburn, 3518.

Copies of the draft document can be posted out on request by calling Council on (03) 5494 1200.

Any person wishing to make a submission on the draft Community Vision and Council Plan must do so before close of business on Friday 8 October 2021.

 via post to: Loddon Shire Council, PO Box 21, Wedderburn, 3518.

Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and must clearly state whether they wish to be heard in person.

Council will meet to consider submissions at the Council Forum on 12 October 2021.

Loddon Shire Council has prepared a 10year Financial Plan after consideration at the Council Forum held on Tuesday 14 September and is now requesting feedback on the Draft Financial Plan.

Council will then consider adoption of the Community Vision and Council Plan at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 26 October 2021.

Copies of the Draft Financial Plan will be available for inspection from Saturday 25 September 2021 to Friday 8 October 2021.

Council has made the Draft Financial Plan available on Council’s website on

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 CASH PAID ON DAY Phone 0452 264 661

ARNOLD PUBLIC HALL Notice is given of a

PUBLIC MEETING to be held at the Arnold Public Hall on Wednesday, 13th October commencing at 7.30pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Arnold Public Hall Committee of Management Inc. for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 23rd October, 2021. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night.

Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged.

Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Kaye Graham on 0427387359.

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

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

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

Community Care Workers – ref.J/102   

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

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

Municipal Building Surveyor – ref.J/99   

Permanent, either part-time or full-time Salary negotiable Location – Wedderburn office with some opportunity to work remotely

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

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

Community Development Officer – ref.

J/107 Permanent, part-time – 28 hours per week (7-day fortnight)  Band 6 - $41.85 per hour  Location – Wedderburn Office 

Feedback for Proposed Financial Plan 2020/21 – 2030/31

 via email to loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au

Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held at Mysia War Memorial School on Tuesday 5th October commencing at 5pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) nor more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Mysia Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 31st December 2021.

All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women are encouraged.

Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Julie Dean on 03 54947398

Due to COVID-19 regulations, masks must be worn and sign in using the Victorian Government QR Code or on the form provided.

Use one of the below options to let us know what you think by Friday 8 October:  visit Council’s website: https://www.loddon. vic.gov.au/Our-Council/Documents-for-publiccomment and provide comment online by clicking on the “Submit your comment” link

EMPLOYMENT

https://www.loddon.vic.gov.au/Our-Council/ Financial-reports.

Copies are also available to be posted on request by calling Council’s Customer Service Office on (03) 5494 1200.

Any person wishing to provide feedback on the Draft Financial Plan is requested to do so before 5.00pm on Friday 8 October 2021. Feedback should be referenced with ‘Draft Financial Plan Feedback’ and must state whether feedback in person at the October Council Forum on Tuesday 12 October 2021 is sought.

Council will meet to consider feedback at the Council Forum on Tuesday 12 October 2021. Council will then consider adoption of the Financial Plan at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 26 October 2021. Council will give public notice of its decision.

Jude Holt Acting Chief Executive Officer

NEWBRIDGE RECREATION RESERVE Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held at the Newbridge Recreation Reserve Multi Purpose Room on Monday, 11th October, 2021 commencing at 7.30 pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Newbridge Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Inc. for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 23rd October, 2021. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night.

Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged.

Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Kaye Graham on 0427387359.

Due to ongoing restrictions associated with Covid 19, masks must be worn and sign in using the QR Code, or on the form provided.

Applications for the positions above will be assessed as they are received.

Early Years (Child Care) Project Officer – ref.no J/116   

Full-time, fixed-term (12 months) Band 7 - $47.53 per hour Location – Serpentine office, or Wedderburn as required

Applications for the above positions will close on Monday 11 October 2021.

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

Loddon HERALD FREE EVERY THURSDAY

Circulating throughout communities in the Loddon Shire loddonherald@gmail.com or Phone 0419549743 Managing Editor - Chris Earl

www.loddonherald.com.au 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

14 | Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021

SPORT CRICKET LATEST

Final ball as two clubs fold TWO Loddon cricket clubs have gone into recess with the disbandment of the Northern United Association.

Clubs last month decided to wind up the association that included 2020-2021 runners-up Dingee and Calivil.

Association secretary Matt Gilmour said the last season had been a struggle for clubs with COVID restrictions and player shortages adding to the challenge.

“Besides COVID it was a bit of a mess with seven or eight forfeits for the season,” Gilmour said.

He said the Elmore and Colbinabbin clubs had wanted to affiliate with the Goulburn Murray association where there was a junior competition.

Both Calivil and Dingee clubs have gone into recess.

Dingee only reformed last season, winning five matches and making their way to the grand final against Elmore.

Calivil’s Phil Brown said the club had discussed possible affiliation with the Upper Loddon association but decided to step away from competition.

“We have been struggling to get the numbers and there were only two or three players still keen on playing every Saturday,” Brown said.

While only winning three matches last season, Calivil had enjoyed success with two Northern United association premierships in the past five years.

“We’ll miss the social aspects,

the community coming together, but it was time to pull up stumps,” Brown said.

Meanwhile, Upper Loddon association delegates met on Monday night.

All six clubs - Arnold, Kingower, Bridgewater, Boort Yando, Newbridge and Wedderburn Band - indicated they planned to have senior and junior sides for the new season.

Sam Harrison stepped down as president after two years in the position and Wendy Murphy was voted in as the new president the first woman to hold this position in the Upper Loddon.

Secretary Michael Rose said the association aimed to start the season on November 13, depending on the level of State Government restrictions connected with double vaccination required at that time, Michael said all senior matches will be one-day matches.

There wll be mathes scheduled on Christmas day or New Year’s day.

Delegates voted in to have an extra day scheduled in case no play is possible on grand final day.

This year’s deciding match was abandoned when heavy rain fell on the final between Bridgewater and Wedderburn with the premiership awarded to Bridgewater who had finished on top of the ladder.

The Upper Loddon association draw will be released next month.

Ian Bradley was among bowlers at Inglewood on Saturday preparing for the season. LH PHOTO

Rosengren’s Redback award JORDAN Rosengren has won the Vern Hayes Memorial best and fairest in his return season with Wedderburn Redbacks.

Rosengren was one of the side’s key performers in the North Central football season, kicking 17 goals as the Redbacks returned as one of the league’s top tier sides.

Runner-up in the best and fairest was Jackson Guan. He also received the Wedderburn Hotel Award and was named winner of the most valuable player award.

Hamish Winter-Irving received the most consistent player award in the awards evening conducted online last week.

The Leigh Ritchie Memorial Award for best first year player went to Isaac Holt with the club’s leading goalkicker for the season being Will Holt (20 goals).

In the Redbacks’ reserve vote count. the best and fairest was won by Matt Lockhart from Jayden Leach. Other awards Coach’s award: Sam Carroll. Most determined: Ashley Younghus-

band. Leading goalkicker: Gerald Riley (28 goals). Bendigo Bank award: Cam Lang.

The Stewart & Joan Steel Memorial best and fairest for the under 16 was taken home by Robert Whyman. Runners up Best and Fairest was Dylan Caruana. Most improved Zen Joyner The under 13 Drew Ritchie Memorial Award for most consistent player was given to Noah Winslett, most improved – Trai Clarke and Kalais Crees received the coach’s award.

In hockey, the women’s best and fairest was won by Laura Van De Wetering with the runner-up Neve Nisbet.

The coach’s award was won

by Monique Ward and the Vi Stephenson Memorial encouragement award Jacob Ward. Michelle Hargreaves was named the hockey best clubperson for the season.

The netball awards were also counted and presented, capping off a top year for the A Grade netballers who finished the sea-

son undefeated. Maddison Postle gained top votes in the best and fairest, finishing ahead of coach Meg Lockhart while the coach’s award went to Olivia Lockhart Best clubperson for netball was awarded to Paigan Gould.

In the 13 and Under B awards, Alexis Tansley was named as the most improved. Most determined in 13 and Under A was Amelia Buschmann, most consistent Chloe Looby and most improved Kayla Cramp The 16 and Under B best and fairest was won by Ciara Rose Sims from Libby Norman.

Coach’s award: Ella Bailey.

In C Grade, the best and fairest award was won by Phoebe Van Huemen with Kelsea Nisbet the runner-up. Coach’s award was won by Toni Villiers.

The B Grade best and fairest was won by Sharyn Lockhart Joint runners-up Susan Lockhart, Courtney Gleeson and Ingrid Gould.

The coach’s award recipient was Mikala McNeil.

Mare’s good form continues KORONG Vale mare Courts Bliss continued her great form with an excellent second at Mildura last Friday night for trainer Steve Branson and driver James Herbertson, making it three wins and a second from her last four starts.

Courts Bliss will line up in Race 3, No 5 at Swan Hill this evening at at 6.57.

Vincent Kai ran his usual honest race at Charlton on Monday for trainer Grant Innes. After leading, Vincent Kai held on well to claim third prizemoney.

St Arnaud pacer Dot The Eye also ran his usual honest running second at Charlton also. Coming from last and between horses, he eventually got a run up the inside to claim second for trainer Denis McIntyre and driver Michael Bellman.

Wedderburn Harness Racing Club is saddened by the loss of committeeman Jason Sposito last Saturday. Jason was a popular figure around the club looking af-

ter the numbers’ room on raceday. Jason was also goal umpire and cricket umpire in Melbourne and Bendigo.

Harness racing is at Bendigo this Saturday night with the highlights the Smoken Up Free For All and the heats of the Victoria Derby and Victoria Oaks of which the finals will be at Bendigo the following Saturday along with the $300,000 Victoria Cup. Tips for this week - Bendigo R5 No 9 Act Now, Bendigo R6 No 11 Its Back In The Day

Loddon HERALD Thursday September 30, 2021 | 15

SPORT NORTH CENTRAL NETBALL BEST AND FAIREST A GRADE

ton), Claire Adams (Donald), Grace Taylor(Wycheproof Narraport), Isabella Forrest (Donald), Jay Connelly (Birchip Watchem), Megan Godkin (Donald), Sarah Plowright(Wycheproof Narraport), Simone Summerhayes (Sea Lake Nandaly), Stacey Streader (Boort), Talia Holmes-Brown (Charlton), Taya Bartram (Wycheproof Narraport), Tiarnee Hall (Wycheproof Narraport).

2 Alana Curran (St Arnaud), Bailee Mott (Sea Lake Nandaly), Eliza Perryman (Boort), Emily Weir (Sea Lake Nandaly), Jenna Allen(Wycheproof Narraport), Jenna Angel (Birchip Watchem), Kaley Ritchie (Boort), Libby Thompson(Wycheproof Narraport), Melea Casboult(Wycheproof Narraport), Paige Tuohey (Wycheproof Narraport), Samantha Wight (Sea Lake Nandaly), Tylah Shields (St Arnaud).

1 Alicia Myers (St Arnaud), Amber Guerini (Wedderburn), Belinda Burke (St Arnaud), Bronte Michael (Sea Lake Nandaly), Brooke Williams (St Arnaud), Camilla Moresi (Boort), Charlotte McCredden (Birchip Watchem), Courtney Sait (Charlton), Grace Leeder (Donald), Kiara Cameron (Donald), Lahni Jackson (Wedderburn), Seisia Horman (Sea Lake Nandaly), Stacey Dunstan (Charlton), Tracy Mulquiny (Charlton).

17 Claudia Griffiths (Donald). 15 Asela Finch (Sea Lake Nandaly), Maddison Postle Wedderburn). 14 Meg Lockhart (Wedderburn). 13 Aliza Lockhart (Wedderburn), Carly Isaacs (Birchip). 12 Ashley Roberts (Sea Lake Nandaly). 10 Gabrielle Rule (Birchip Watchem). 9 Abby Thompson (Charlton), Khiana Brooks ( Birchip Watchem), Kirsty McKenzie (Charlton), Stephanie Haw (Boort). 8 Erin McGurk (Charlton), India Griffith (St Arnaud). 7 Georgia Sheehan (Birchip), Sarah Barry (Wycheproof Narraport), Sophie Cockerall (Boort), Xanthi Rice (Donald). 6Meghan Noonan (Birchip Watchem), Olivia Lockhart (Wedderburn). 5 Isabel Coutts (Boort), Maddison Fitzpatrick (Charlton). 4 Ebony McLean (Sea Lake Nandaly), Emma Lockhart (Wedderburn), Grace Hosking (Boort).

3 Holly Saul (Wycheproof Narraport), Matilda Griffiths (Donald). 2 Ally Doak (Donald), Alyssa Fawcett (Wycheproof Narraport), Cheyenne Parsons (Birchip Watchem), Chloe Walsh (Charlton), Courtney Gleeson (Wedderburn), Georgia Lee (Birchip Watchem), Hannah Cook (Birchip Watchem), Jasmine Hollis (Donald), Kayla Martin (Sea Lake Nandaly), Madeline Marks (Birchip Watchem), Polly Douglas (St Arnaud), Shelley De Araugo (Wedderburn), Stevie Bibby (Wycheproof Narraport), Zara Jenkyn (Charlton). 1 Darci Tierney (Birchip Watchem), Demi Foott (Birchip Watchem), Linda Adams (Donald), Maddelyn Tormey (Charlton), Nakia Nunn (Wycheproof Narraport), Naomi Medlyn (St Arnaud), Zowie Brooks (Wycheproof Narraport)

UNDER 16B

B GRADE 20 Megan Bruns (Charlton). 15 Keely Griffiths (Sea Lake Nandaly). 12 Hannah Cook (Birchip Watchem), Jarni Gilmour (Donald).

11 Erin Twigg (Boort). 10 Kim Griffiths (Donald), Sharyn Lockhart (Wedderburn). 8 Emmerson Doyle (Boort), Kazzandra Adams (Boort), Polly Douglas (St Arnaud). 7 Grace Leeder (Donald), Sara Adams (Donald), Susan Lockhart (Wedderburn). 6 Ella Hogan (Birchip Watchem), Emma Darker (Boort), Ingrid Gould (Wedderburn), Suberia Sailor (Birchip Watchem). 5 Bridgette Knights (St Arnaud), Courtney Gleeson (Wedderburn), Isabell Hand (St Arnaud), Paige Stephenson (Wedderburn). 4 Chelsea Gravenor (St Arnaud), Isabella Forrest (Donald), Kiara Berry (Donald),Natalie Prange (Sea Lake Nandaly),

A Grade runner-up - Wedderburn’s Maddison Postle. LH PHOTO Sarah Turnbull (Wedderburn), Tara Wingfield (Wedderburn), Tessa Sexton (Charlton) 4.

3 Bridgette Hogan (Birchip Watchem), Ellie Middleton (Donald), Ellie Rae (Charlton), Grace Hosking (Boort), Imogen Amos (St Arnaud), Katharine Campbell (Donald), Kelly Angel (Birchip Watchem), Kirri Ezard (St Arnaud), Megan Tonkin (Donald). 2 Ally Doak (Donald), Brooke Arnold (Boort), Emily Lanyon (Charlton), Jenna Allan (Wycheproof Narraport), Keegan Amos (St Arnaud), Lucinda Holmes-Brown (Charlton), Madeline Marks (Birchip Watchem), Tessa Botheras (Wycheproof Narraport). 1 Claudia Cox (Sea Lake Nandaly), Courtney Griffiths (Wedder-

burn), Danielle Campbell (Charlton), Darci Tierney (Birchip Watchem), India Griffith (St Arnaud), Kristen Gooding (Boort), Lacey McInnes (Sea Lake Nandaly), Mikala McNeill (Wedderburn), Shelley De Araugo (Wedderburn), Stacey Hamilton (Birchip Watchem), Tahlia Sailor (Donald), Tania Scarce (St Arnaud), Tracey Bachelor (Boort), Zowie Brooks (Wycheproof Narraport).

C GRADE 20 Chelsea Leeder (Donald). 17 Phoebe Van Heumen (Wedderburn). 14 Kasey King

NORTH CENTRAL FOOTBALL BEST AND FAIREST JJ Feeny Medal

WEDDERBURN

16 Votes Jordan Hargreaves (Wedderburn) 15 Votes Wade Donnan (Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers) 13 Votes Thomas Finlay (Charlton)

Matthew Lockhart 3 1 3 2 (9) Cameron Land LANG 1 3 2 1 (7) Francisco Fernandes 2 3 (5) Jayden Leach 2 2 (4) Robert Tonkin 3 (3) Nathan Leist 1 (1) Ashley Younghusband 1 (1)

WEDDERBURN Jordan Hargreaves 3 3 3 3 2 2 1 (17) Jordan Rosengren 1 3 1 2 (7) Ben de Araugo 3 (3) Luke Holt 2 1 (3) Joseph Lockhart 3 (3) Isaac Holt 1 1 (2) Hamish Winter-Irving 2 (2) Corey Lowry 1 (1)

BOORT Keiren Wilson 2 3 (5) Benjamin Knight 1 1 3 (5) Matthew Chisari 3 (3) Cody Gunn 3 (3) Brodie Leonard-Shannon 2 (2) Tom Potter 1 (1) Jack Smith 1 (1) Angus Trethowan 1 (1)

James & Jenny Goldsmith Reserves Best and Fairest Trophy 16 Votes Jack Ryan (Birchip Watchem) 12 Votes Nathan McNally (St Arnaud) 11 Votes Tyson McKenzie (Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers)

BOORT Christopher O’Rourke 2 2 2 2 3 (11) David Johnston 1 3 (4) Jordan Bell 3 (3) Keanu Padula 3 (3) Willem Toose 3 (3) Christopher Hatcher 3 (3) Rhys Brown 2 (2) Samuel Griffith 1 1 (2) Nathan Maw 2 (2) Patrick O’Rourke 2 (2) Jack Kerr 1 (1)

Jeff “Woofa” Guild Under 16 Best and Fairest Trophy 19 Votes Thomas Cox (Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers) 13 Votes Tom Myers (St Arnaud) 12 Votes Tom Potter (Boort) BOORT Tom Potter 3 3 3 3 (12) Alex Cockerell 3 1 2 3 2 (11) Frasier Holland 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 (9) Lachlan Hall 1 3 (4) Samuel Barraclough 3 (3) Kobie Streader 2 1 (3) Brady Whykes 3 (3) WEDDERBURN Robert Whyman 1 1 1 1 2 2 (8) Tooleybuc Sporting Club President’s Award Thomas Finlay (Charlton)

(Charlton). 11 Anna Burns (Sea Lake Nandaly). 9. Tilly Mae Lanyon (Boort). 8 Kelsea Nisbet (Wedderburn), Petria Frank (Birchip Watchem). 7 Charlotte Smith (Wedderburn), Natalie Hickey (Sea Lake Nandaly), Rebecca Sexton (Charlton), Zara Staples (Donald). 6 Ashlea Rigg (Wedderburn), Brooke Arnold (Boort), Judy Parker (Boort), Lily Hosking (Boort), Teale Mott (Sea Lake Nandaly). 5 Chevaun Wight (Sea Lake Nandaly), Courtney Doak (Donald), Kate Maddern (Birchip Watchem), Maryanne Bell (Birchip Watchem), Rowie Anderson (Donald). 4 Ellie Meagher (St Arnaud), Molly Harrison (Donald) 4.

3 Bethany Shearwood-Boyd (Charl-

10 Carissa Haw (Boort), Jessica Minogue (Boort). 8 Ella Streader (Boort), 7 Imogen Boyle (Birchip Watchem). 6 Dayna McKenzie (Sea Lake Nandaly), Jorjah Roberts (Donald) 6, Laura Simpson (Sea Lake Nandaly), Sophie O’Donnell (St Arnaud). 5 Pheobe Malone (Boort), Teagan Cole (St Arnaud), Toni Jones (Donald), Tylah Haslam (Birchip Watchem), Zoe Orisby (Donald). 4 Ciara Rose Sims (Wedderburn), Demi Leach (St Arnaud).

3 Bridie Doyle (Boort), Gabby Campbell (Donald), Lily McClelland (Sea Lake Nandaly), Maddisyn Brookes-Dalton (Sea Lake Nandaly). 2 Ava Wilson (St Arnaud), Britney Sykes (Boort), Emily Barber (Birchip Watchem), Jenna Alday (Sea Lake Nandaly), Lainey Mortlock (Donald), Ruby Smith (St Arnaud). Sophie Renney (Sea Lake Nandaly). 1 Amelia Buschmann (Wedderburn), Bethany Hiha (Birchip Watchem), Ellie Stacey (Sea Lake Nandaly), Emmersyn Gowlett (Donald), Hannah Wilson (Birchip Watchem), Jasmine Rollinson (Donald), Leila Patton (St Arnaud), Libby Norman (Wedderburn).

Whittle adds Maroons’ title to season haul NEWBRIDGE’S Harry Whittle has added the Maroons’ best and fairest award to his stellar Loddon Valley league football season accolades.

The league’s Frank Harding medalist was a clear club winner when votes were counted last week. He finished with 52 from Ryan Burt 42 and Logan Dixon 41.

Other senior tropies - Most improved: Logan Dixon. Linton Gleeson memorial coach’s award: Dylan Lloyd. Hard as a Cats Head award: Ricky Cathie.

In the reserves, Keelan Bertuch was named best and fairest after finishing with 30 votes, ahead of Jack Teasedale 28 and Jack Murray 23.

Most determined was Matt Harvey, most improved Jay Harkness, coach’s award Brad Wilson and the Gee He Had

a Crack award went to Jack Murray.

Rachel Pettifer was runaway winner in the A Grade vote count. She finished with Rachel Pettifer 43 with Sharlene Hanning runner-up on 24.

Coach’s award: Laura Dixon.

B Grade best for the season was Jasmine Daly 33 from Meg Jennings 22. Coach’s award: Abby Rowley.

C Grade - best and fairest Rochelle Daley 32, Meg Hickman 25. Coach’s award: Gemma Cleeland C Reserve: Natalie Quinn 24 Zoe Ferns 22. Coach’s award: Kesha Fithall.

17 and under: Mikeely Hufer 31, Mia Deane 18. Coach’s award: Maddison Kennedy 15 and under: Abbi Wells 47, Sarelle Matheson 25. Coach’s award: Ruby Mitchell

Under 16 Team Player of the Year Robert Whyman (Wedderburn)

GOALKICKING Richmond Family Trophy - Seniors Billy McInnes (Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers) – 28 Goals Ivan Leader Goal Kicking Award - Reserves Daniel Needs (St Arnaud) – 41 Goals

NCFL Rookie of the Year Charlie Cox (Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers)

Zoe Ferns

sport

Loddon HERALD

Thursday September 30, 2021

THE VERY BEST Hargreaves wins Feeny, Magpie netball trio star

A SINGLE best and fairest vote in the penultimate North Central league football season game has given Jordan Hargreaves the 2021 Feeny Medal.

2021 Feeny Medal winner ... Wedderburn’s Jordan Hargreaves. LH PHOTO

Carissa Haw

Jessica Minogue

Annie Perryman

The Wedderburn ruckman bolted to an early lead in the medal count with four best-ongrounds in the first four rounds.

But it was that one vote in the match against Boort that had Hargreaves a single vote ahead of fast-finishing Tom Finlay (Charlton) and Ross Young (Sea Lake Nandaly) who each polled three votes across the final two rounds.

Hargreaves is the first Redback to take out the league’s top award since Mark Lloyd in 2014, ironically also winning with 16 votes.

And on Tuesday, Hargreaves received his medal after the long weekend receiving congratulations for the success in the online vote count.

“I was just glad to be back playing football after last season was called off,” he said with medal in hand reflecting on the 2021 season and Wedderburn’s return to the league’s upper echelon.

“I didn’t deal too well not playing last year and put on a bit of weight. But we came back as a team and bonded really well, “Co-coach Sam Barnes had me playing a different role ... staying back after the centre bounces ready for the intercepts.

“Once the ball was in our forward zone, I was there floating across the centre.”

It’s a game plan that Hargreaves thinks is made for finals and hopes can be properly tested next season.

“Apart from a couple of games - Sea Lake and Birchip Watchem - it worked pretty well,” he said.

Hargreaves has played most of his football with the Redbacks, staying loyal to his town and mates despite offers to leave Donaldson Park.

“It makes sense to stay with your mates and the town where you live and work,” Hargreaves said.

Hargreaves’ football development was aided by two years with Bendigo Pioneers and a season with Bendigo Gold.

He notched up 100 for Wedderburn in 2019 and has sights set on finals next season and the chance to maybe reach 150 games.

Meanwhile, Boort is celebrating triple best and fairest success in netball.

Annie Perryman won the under 16A award while Carissa Haw and Jessica Minogue shared honours in under 16B. Wedderburn’s Aliza Lockhart was named the association’s 2021 rising star.

The Redbacks’ Maddison Postle was runner-up in A Grade, finishing two votes behind Claudia Griffith (Charlton)

How the umpires voted - PAGE 15

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