Loddon Herald 31 July 2025

LOCK THEM UP

Vehicle thefts prompt police warning

LODDON police have called for prevention and viligance as would-be thieves are making local towns their crime destination.

Bridgewater’s Leading Senior Constable Mick Balazs said a spate of motor car thefts in the past six months have been “by offenders identified as coming up from the Bendigo area”.

And Wedderburn police are investigating the theft of a farm tractor used to free a vehicle bogged in a paddock west of town at the weekend and a utility and golf buggy at Wedderburn Junction.

The tractor engine was left running and it later crashed into a tree. Owner Kevin Lockhart said it appeared the tractor had gone in circles before hitting the tree, spinning wheels stripping tyres.

“We are investigating and have a person of interest for the tractor theft,” said Sgt Ben Huisman.

Senior Constable Balazs said:

“Two nights ago we have had offenders visit Bridgewater over-

night and conducted a series of thefts from motor cars ... the common theme is that all victim’s cars were either unlocked or had keys in the vehicle,” Senior Constable Balazs said on Tuesday.

“Police are appealing for drivers to ensure that they lock their vehicles at night or when unattended and never leave keys in the vehicle.

“I often say to people how would you feel if your vehicle that has been stolen was involved in a road fatality.

“Likewise we have seen on occasions offenders enter an unlocked property and steal keys which were readily and easily located and then the vehicle stolen.

“It’s great that we feel secure in our homes and area but sadly times have changed and this practice is becoming very common particularly in more populated areas such as Melbourne suburbs and Bendigo. Unfortunately with our close proximity to Bendigo, we are becoming more frequently targeted,” Senior Constable Balazs said.

Dorothy Poxon has walked on water, created laughter on the stage and had a reputation for being “the best dressed lady in Boort”. On Sunday more than 150 people helped the Inglewood-born Dorothy celebrate her 100th birthday at Boort Sports Club. The Loddon’s newest centenarian held court as she was feted by family, friends and Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh amid ballons, streamers and cards from King Charles and Australian leaders

DOROTHY’S STORY - PAGE 15

The tractor stolen at the weekend after hitting a tree

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WEEKEND FORECAST

Out of the shed and hitting road

THEY’RE on the road and having a ball, says East Loddon Men’s Shed president Phil Hercus after the group’s latest trip.

Phil says the focus of members has been to “get out of the shed and explore the area”.

Last week, it was the Rochester Sports Museum and follows a visit to vintage tractor collections in the Loddon.

Phil said the group had plans for a tour to Wedderburn’s Coach House Gallery next month and was developing a program of activities to expand membership.

“We have had a few more join since we started the road trips and they’re having a ball,” he said.

“Getting out and about is one of the things we can do beyond the traditional ideas of working

in a shed on projects. It’s bringing people together for a good time and that’s important.”

The East Loddon group was originally formed through the Lions club before it became an incorporated group eight years ago and is one of five active men’s sheds in the Loddon.

Others are at Boort, Inglewood, Wedderburn and Pyramid Hill.

IN BRIEF

Opera coming back

LYSTER Opera is returning to Inglewood after it was forced to move its 2024 performance to Charlton while works were completed at the town hall. The company’s director Jamie Moffat saysThe Merry Wives of Windsor will be performed in Septemer. “It’ll be nice to bring the company back. Charlton was lovely while the renovations were going on but we are glad to be headed back to Inglewood,” he said.

Fishing forums

Victorian Fisheries Authority will host 11 free fishing forums in August at angling clubs across the state, connecting recreational fishers with the latest on topics tailored to their patch. VFA CEO Travis Dowling said the annual forums provide a great chance for fishers and their families to pick up new information, while building relationships with a local club and sharing ideas.

Out and about

TARNAGULLA Social Support

Grou, an initiative of Inglewood and Districts Health Service, last week visited the Raillery Hub gallery in St Arnaud.

Playground ready

EAST Loddon P12 students and staff at East Loddon are excited after a new playground was installed last week.

East Loddon Men’s Shed members visit the Rochester Sports Museum last week

Farmers back 5km buffer

DISTRICT farmers will push have wind farm rules tightened and turbines kept 5klm away from non-consenting neighbours.

St Arnaud branch of the Victorian Farmers’ Federation last Thursday carried a motion that would increase the buffer between turbines and owners of land adjoining wind farms.

The motion was backed by all but a handful of farmers from across the Wimmera and Loddon regions at the meeting.

Tyler Nelson, a farmer near Boort, said there needed to be better protection for landowners.

He said project neighbours were given no choice if a wind farm was to be built “and we are told nothing (of plans) until after the event”.

Mr Nelson said wind farm developers needed to be put on notice as they were currently operating without any real frameworks.

VFF branch secretary Barry Batters said the Government currently did not “have a clue about buffer zones” and non-consenting neighbours.

The meeting also backed Mr Nelson on calling for a 10km setback of wind farms from wetlands and property of environmental value and for the definition to also disallow development within 1km of a title boundary.

Last week’s VFF debate came as district farmers continue their protests against the Federal and State Government’s renewable energy policies and the impact on farmers and agricultural land outside a conference in Bendigo.

Further protests against proposed new State Government legislation on land access for renewable energy projects are scheduled for Melbourne this week.

The branch meeting was attended by state president Brett Hosking and new chief executive office Charlie Thomas.

Mr Thomas said the future of the VFF would rely on greater engagement with younger people.

“Food and fibre production is worth protecting and fighting for,” Mr Thomas said.

Both Mr Thomas and Mr Hosking said the next state election in November 2026 would see the VFF put forward strong cases on a range of issues.

“Forty per cent of food manufacturing jobs are in Victoria and we need to sell that,” Mr Thomas said.

Mr Hosking said the VFF had a CEO in Mr Thomas “who wants to be among us and understanding the members”.

He said the VFF continued to push for axing the controversial emergency services tax.

And he said there had been

Energy transition ‘off the rails’

THE State Government’s energy transition risks alienating the very communities it needs most, the VFF said this week.

President Brett Hosking said the transition was being derailed by poor planning, worrying rhetoric, and alarming legislative proposals including the VicGrid Bill Amendment, which would allow policeenforced access to farms and fines of up to $12,100 for landholders who resist.

“Farmers are not opposed to renewable energy. We know the world is changing and we’re part of that change, but we won’t cop being steamrolled in the process,” he said

“The VicGrid amendments are deeply troubling. Allowing police to enforce access and slapping hard working farmers with fines for simply wanting to protect their land is not how you build trust, it’s indicative of how trust has been lost,” Mr Hosking said.

Mr Hosking said the Government’s determination to press ahead with major transmission projects without genuine community consultation including the Western Renewables Link and VNI West was undermining both public confidence and the project’s viability.

“The WRL and VNI West are both failed projects and they should be scrapped entirely. Both have been mismanaged from the start, and communities have made it clear they won’t accept it being forced through their paddocks.

“These projects are too important to get wrong and the Victorian Government is risking a smooth renewable energy transmission by attempting to ram these projects through. Acknowledging the mistakes and starting again is the only way to deliver a smooth transition.”

talks with the Greens about the renewable energy land access proposals.

“Even the Greens are concerns about the Government’s plans,” Mr Hosking said.

Branch president Colin Coates said: “My grandfather if he was still alive would be feeling betrayed by these plans and that an act of terrorism had been committed.”

He urged members to continue their push to protect land for primary production. “If ever there is a time to be standing up, it’s right now,” Mr Coates said.

IN BRIEF

Child care study starts WENDY Holland has been appointed by Inglewood Community Bank to prepapre a study on the need for child care in Inglewood and Bridgewater. Bank board deputy chair Max Higgs said an initial meeting with key stakeholders had been held on Friday. The bank has committed $250,000 towards establishing child care in the southern Loddon towns. The study will collect data on the number of children in the area, community interest and engagement and look at possible sites and operators. Mr Higgs said the board had been in contact with state and federal MPs to advance its push for more child care. Irrigation orders

GOULBURN Murray Water will open irrigation ordering from August 1 – 14 days before the start of the 20252026 start of season – for Loddon Valley Irrigation Area customers to gauge demand and determine whether rationing may be required.

STUD RAM SALE SEASON

THE Merino stud ram sale season starts next week with Loddon opening the Victorian on-property auctions. Your Loddon Herald today begins a special series of rural features on our studs and their ram genetics, starting with Terrick West, Kedleston Park and Willera Merinos See Pages 11-13

The VFF has written to Premier Jacinta Allan and MPs asking them to vote down the proposed new laws.

Charlie Thomas (second left) with Wedderburn VFF members Graham Nesbit, Chris Holt and Tony Coombs. LH PHOTO

Hundreds soak up grand sounds

INGLEWOOD football beanies, scarves and jackets dotted the pews of St Augustine’s Anglican Church on Saturday when the historic Fincham organ was hear in its full glory for the first time.

Organist Thomas Heywood and soprano Merlyn Quaife entertained an estimated 200 people in the inaugural Bendigo Fine Music’s Keys of Gold Festival appearance in the church.

Heywood had been instrumental in finding and having installed the missing pipe of the heritagelisted Fincham organ.

The morning recital brought carloads of music enthusiasts from Bendigo and other parts of Victoria, mingling with locals who came dressed ready to head to the home ground football match.

Among the crowd was retired Anglican bishop Andrew Curnow who had been among the champions to have the organ completed more than 100 years after its installation.

Heywood told the audience that Keys of Gold would return to Inglewood, Loddon Shire Council having confirmed Saturday’s performance was the first of a three-year partnership with the festival.

Inglewood cafes have praised council for the initiative that had boosted the day’s trade.

Govt ‘misleads on tax impact’

THE STATE Government has been accused of continuing to mislead Victorians on cuts to emergency services as the impact of the cruel emergency services tax looms.

Premier Jacinta Allan in Parliament on Tuesday declared the tax is “all about providing more support to our fire and emergency services’’.

But Nationals leader Danny O’Brien said that claim was in stark contrast with reality, as budget cuts to the Country Fire Authority, State Emergency Service and Fire Rescue Victoria revealed by the Treasurer in a Government Gazette.

“The Allan Labor Government is taking more under the $3 billion emergency services tax and giving less to frontline services,” he said.

“Despite constant questioning in the past two months, the Government has refused to acknowledge the cuts.”

“That tax is all about filling budget black holes and propping up backroom executives, not supporting the frontline services.”

The Coalition has promised the tax, opposed by Loddon Shire, would be repealed if it wins next year’s state election.

“It will be consigned to history, where it belongs” Mr O’Brien said.

Loddon Shire Council has several important plans out for public comment - find out below how to have your say

Draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan

Loddon Shire Council is inviting community feedback on its Draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan, which is now available for public review and feedback. The draft plan outlines Council’s approach to the management of domestic wastewater systems to protect public health, the environment, and the long-term sustainability of our region. Submissions can be made in writing and emailed to loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au.

The plan is available to view via the Council website - you can access it via our home page. The feedback period closes on Wednesday, 13 August 2025. For more information or to request a hard copy of the draft plan or an alternative means of making a submission, please contact Council on (03) 5494 1200.

Questions about Inglewood Streetscape?

Council is hosting information sessions about the Inglewood Streetscape Enhancement project at Cafe 3517 in Inglewood on Thursday, 31 July and Thursday, 7 August. Come along and find out more, or ask the project team any questions, from 8.30am to 10.30am.

Loddon Shire Council’s customer service always goes above and beyond in helping the public – a fact recognised year after year in Community Satisfaction Surveys – but there’s always room to improve and we want you to help us do that.

Council has released the Draft Customer Experience Strategy 2025-2029 for public comment, and is keen for you to have your say. The draft strategy highlights the importance of providing a responsive, accessible and efficient service to all customers and the value of using a blend of traditional and modern systems and processes to deliver a positive customer experience. It also makes use of extensive community feedback earlier this year in towns across the shire seeking information in a range of things from preferred methods of payment to how residents preferred to interact with Council staff.

You can view the strategy on the Council website - access it via our home page. Feedback closes Monday, 11 August 2025. For more information or to request a hard copy of the draft plan or an alternative means of making a submission, please contact Council on (03) 5494 1200.

Domestic Animal Management Plan

Loddon Shire Council is in the process of reviewing its Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP).

As part of this we are holding pop-up listening posts at the following venues:

Coffee Bank at Pyramid Hill (Tuesday, 5 August, 10.30am - 11.30am), Boort Veterinary Clinic (5 August, noon - 1.30pm), Korong Vale Recreation Reserve (6 August, 11.30am - 1pm), Newbridge general store (13 August, 11.30am - 1pm), Inglewood IGA (13 August, 2.30pm - 5pm), 24 Karat Cafe at Wedderburn (14 August, 9am - 10.30am) and Coffee on Loddon at Bridgewater (15 August, 8.30am - 9.30am).

We also invite you to have your say by completing the survey on our website - you can access it via our home page. This survey is open until Monday, 18 August 2025. For an alternative means of completing the survey please contact Council on (03) 5494 1200. Council will then consider the responses and prepare a draft DAMP for public comment.

Cr

Organ builder Daniel Bittner and Thomas Heywood share their love of the Fincham organ during Saturday’s recital (above) and retired Bishop Andrew Curnow tells the story of the famous organ watched on by soloist Merlyn Quaife.

LH PHOTOS

Agents of disappointment

CLUBS and organisations fear they will be forced to head to bigger towns to collect cash needed to run events after the Bendigo Bank announced its dwindling agency network would be axed in October.

Boort and Wedderburn will lose their last banking services in the shutdown.

For Boort agency owner, local pharmacist Daniel Snyder, it’s a double blow. His has also operated the Wycheproof agency.

Members of more than a dozen Boort organisations were outside the Godfrey Street agency on

Monday to express disappointment with the bank’s decision.

Alister McDougal said: “Many groups switched to the Bendigo after Commonwealth and NAB closed their branches here.

“Whether it’s the show, the tennis tournament or other events in town, we’re not sure that the post office alternative suggested by the Bendigo Bank will be able to meet what we need,” he said.

“Post office agencies have limits and we can’t see that working for us. We’ll have to go to Bendigo or Kerang now ... and it’s a concern for businesses who do

regular banking too.” Mr McDougal said that when he first came to Boort 30 years ago, there were three banks.

“The manager, the staff and their families were part of the community - they played golf or football, were part of the agricultural and pastoral society, in service clubs like Apex and Amity.

closures are occurring in MalleeWycheproof, Wedderburn, Boort and St Arnaud.

Levee works turn corner

THE SECOND of two Loddon Shire levee bank projects is expected to be finished within months.

The council says the Boort works are now more than two-thirds completed and follows works on levees at Pyramid Hill.

A spokesperson said: “The Pyramid Hill levee project involved the construction of about 10km of levees, requiring the placement and compaction of around 13,000 tonnes of material.

“The levees were strategically aligned across private properties, with the cooperation of six individual landowners. Through strong partnerships with these landholders, the project successfully established easements to allow for ongoing access, inspection, and long-term maintenance of the levee system.

“This infrastructure significantly enhances flood protection for the township, delivering a resilient, community focused solution that protects lives, property, and livelihoods.

“Country towns have lost that financial and social capital. The Bendigo Bank agency closure is a real blow.”

Mallee MP Anne Webster said: “I am very disappointed that four of the 28 Bendigo Bank agency

VIRTUAL WOMEN’S CLINIC

“The Nationals fought for and secured a Senate inquiry into regional bank closures which successfully pressured the big four banks to put moratoriums on further regional bank closures extending into mid-2026 or mid2027. Bendigo Bank were not parties to that moratorium and I respect these are agency not branch closures. Nonetheless, Wycheproof, Wedderburn, Boort and St Arnaud residents will lose a service.

“The easements also ensure the levees can be sustainably managed in perpetuity, supporting a proactive and future proof approach to disaster risk reduction.”

Boort works started earlier this year after extended negotiations with the Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Corporation for land use.

They’re members of more than a dozen organisations ... now these Boort group volunteers will be without a local bank

Landowners block talks on mining

VICTORIA

FALCON Metals has been sent back to the drawing board with its plans to continue assessing mineral sands deposits at Mysia.

Landowners have delivered the company a second rebuff in 12 months after they refused to meet with the Victorian Mining Warden to discuss land access.

They had earlier refused to enter into talks with Falcon.

The company’s managing director Tim Markwell said last week: “Falcon lodged a submission to the Office of the Mining Warden in Victoria, who has specialist expertise in land access matters such as this, to enable discussions to occur through a facilitated process, and to increase the likelihood of arriving at an appropriate outcome for the Company and the landowners.

“The Mining Warden has informed Falcon that the landowners at Farrelly Mineral Sands Project are currently unwilling to participate in a mediation process.

“Falcon is reviewing its options with regards to land access.”

Falcon Metals is offering Mysia landowners an estimated $1500 compensation for explora-

tory mineral sands drilling. The 1700-hectare proposed drilling site covers part of the water catchment for Woolshed Swamp and the Western Waranga Channel.

Falcon has offered landowners a $500 one-off sign-on fee for land access, $25 for each aircore hole completed on their property and $25 each time the company is on the land. An estimated 150 drill holes have been proposed.

In June, Mr Markwell said: “Falcon does not currently have access agreements at the Farrelly prospect.

“However, Falcon Metals has approximately 67 land access agreements in place across Victoria.”

PYRAMID HILL

VICTORIA HOTEL

Falcon has said that while it is “still early days for the high-grade Farrelly discovery ... it is highly encouraging to see the sighter test confirming the deposit is amenable to conventional processing methods without any notable issues. With no major material processing issues identified in the scope of the test work to date, Falcon’s focus will return to continuing exploration to determine just how large this deposit is.”

EST. 1874

Lions start year with new members

PYRAMID HILL

NEW members and a new year has been set for Inglewood Lions Club after last Friday night’s changeover dinner.

VICTORIA HOTEL

Members and guests were at the senior citizens’ clubrooms for the annual dinner where Robert Condliffe was installed as president by Charlton’s Peter Watts.

Mr Watts also inducted Joshua Swale as a mem-

ber of Lions with further inductions planned later this year.

Joshua said he was motivated to join Lions by its fun and community service.

A major activity each year for Lions is selling Christmas cakes and the award for the best sales in 2024 was given to local postal office owner Kylie Carter.

EST. 1874

Love

The friendly pub open for meals every day with Friday happy hour, trivia, raffles and a chance to win $1,000

Love our local!

Trading hours

Monday – Open 3.00pm  Dinner from 6.00pm

The friendly pub open for meals every day with Friday happy hour, trivia, raffles and a chance to win $1,000

Tuesday – Open 2.00pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Wednesday – Open Midday

Lunch from 12.00pm

Trading hours

Dinner from 6.00pm

Monday – Open 3.00pm

Pot’n’Parma Night

Dinner from 6.00pm

Thursday – Open Midday

Social Darts Night

Dinner from 5.30pm

Tuesday – Open 2.00pm

Steak’n’Pot Night

Dinner from 6.00pm

Friday – Open Midday

Trivia Night

Lunch from 12.00pm

Wednesday – Open Midday

Dinner from 5.30pm

Lunch from 12.00pm

Happy Hour 5.00pm – 6.30pm

Dinner from 6.00pm

Pot’n’Parma Night

With Hot Bar Snacks, Meat Raffle

Thursday – Open Midday

Saturday – Open Midday

Dinner from 5.30pm

Lunch from 12.00pm

Steak’n’Pot Night

Dinner from 5.30pm

Friday – Open Midday

Sunday – Open Midday  All Day Pizza Menu  Close 11.00pm

Lunch from 12.00pm

Robert Condliffe, Joshua Swale and Peter Watts at the Lions changeover dinner. LH PHOTO

Smilestones: Chomper heading to kinders

KINDERGARTENS across Loddon will be reaching new “smilestones” next week.

National Dental Week starting on Monday will highlight the importance of building life-long oral health habits encouraging people to care for teeth and gums.

Boort, Inglewood, Wedderburn, Dingee, Pyramid Hill, Cohuna, Kerang, Koondrook and Leitchville kindergartens are helping spread the oral health messages through the Smiles 4 Miles program.

Northern District Community Health is taking the Smiles 4 Miles initiative of Oral Health Victoria to the kindergartens.

The innovative program promotes healthy eating, drinking, daily toothbrushing, and regular dental visits to improve the oral health of young children and their families.

During Dental Health Week, NDCH staff will be visiting local kindergartens with a special guest — Chomper the Dragon.

Chomper teaches children about the three key messages for good oral health: Drink Well, Eat Well, and Clean Well.

NDCH’s joint Acting CEOs, Deanne Radcliffe and Mansoor Hussain, say this year’s activities are a terrific way to bring smiles to young faces while promoting lifelong healthy habits.

“Sometimes life gets very busy, but Dental Health Week is a great reminder that looking after our

oral health is essential to our overall health and wellbeing — and that good habits need to start early in life,” said Deanne.

“We’ve added something new this year with a StoryWalk set up in Cohuna, featuring the book Going to the Dentist by Anne Civardi. It’s a fun and engaging way for families to learn about oral health while enjoying time together outdoors. Stories about visiting the dentist, combined with physical activity, help children remember the importance of looking after their teeth.”

NDCH will also be handing out free oral health packs to kindergartens, full of fun and practical resources for children and families.

“We want to make it easy and fun for families to talk about oral health — and Chomper certainly helps us do that!” said Mansoor.

Boort District Health is supporting the Smiles 4 Miles program and provides dental care to region.

Every week is Oral Health week. BHD treat a wide variety of the community dental patients from toddlers to aged care residents.

Private and public care is provided and ‘Smile Squad’ for school students being provided in house. All children aged 0-18 receive free care at Boort District Health Dental to ensure they all receive the required dental care and check-ups on an annual basis.

Pair of history charters take medal for research

WEDDERBURN Historical Records Museum leaders Daryl Arnott and Alan Mulraney have had a busy few months promoting local history. The two were recognised at Wedderburn College’s 160 years of education celebrations for assembling a display of memorabilia of schools in the town. They have also taken up the

challenge of starting work on a book chronicling education since in Wedderburn since the first school opened in the 1860s. And the museum continues to add to its database of news stories about Wedderburn. Alan said this week there were now 2062 articles from Loddon Herald on the list since the first edition in 2021.

NDCH Health Promotion Worker, Rachel Clarke and Chomper will visit Loddon kindergartens next week

Daryl Arnott and Alan Mulraney ... promoting history. LH PHOTO

AA forms second group in shire

A SECOND Alcoholics Anonymous group in the Loddon was to be launched in Wedderburn last night.

The new group will meet weekly in the Uniting Church at 7pm.

AA says the Wedderburn group will complement the meeting that has run in Inglewood for more than 10 years at Inglewood Town Hall on Mondays at 7pm.

“Alcoholics Anonymous has been a cornerstone of recovery for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction across the world for over 80 years,” the group says.

“In its early days in Australia, AA was met with some scepticism, as addiction was still widely misunderstood. But the simplicity and community-centred approach of AA gained momentum, particularly after the success stories of those who had turned their lives around with the help of the fellowship.

“AA now boasts thousands of meetings across the country, offering support to those struggling with alcohol addiction.

“One of the primary reasons why AA has remained a dominant force in addiction recovery is its strong community network.

“The fellowship provides individuals with a safe space to talk openly about their struggles and hear from others who have gone through similar experiences.”

Announcing the weekly Wedderburn meeting, AA said its peer support was one of the program’s most praised elements.

“AA provides people with a framework that encourages lifelong commitment to sobriety,” it said.

“For many members, the camaraderie and shared experience make sobriety feel attainable, and the sense of belonging offers individuals the motivation to remain alcohol-free.

“For individuals who resonate with AA’s principles and feel empowered by the fellowship, it remains a life-saving and transformative program.

“The accessibility and affordability of AA, because meetings are free and available in virtually every community and online, ensure its continued relevance, especially for those with limited resources.

“Alcoholics Anonymous’ 80th anniversary in Australia is a significant milestone that shows that the program ‘works if you work it’. The AA program has saved countless lives through its supportive community and spiritual framework, offering hope to individuals struggling with alcohol addiction.

„ For more information contact the 24 hour helpline 1300 22 22 22 or visit the Central Victorian AA District webpage at aacv.au

Forum on the front foot to take shops into future

RETAINING small businesses in Loddon community will be the focus of an Inglewood Development and Tourism Committee event on Monday evening.

Michael Kerr (pictured) will speak on the importance of retaining and transitioning small and medium businesses.

“Local businesses are vital to our Loddon communities. Whether they are large, medium or small, they all bring something important to the communities they serve.,” said committee secretary Wendy Murphy.

“We are hearing local business owners talking of closing their doors due to getting close to retiring, dealing with health issues or just wanting a change.

“But we don’t want to lose the business from the community. We don’t want to see empty shop fronts in the streets.

Mr Kerr, founder of Kerr Capital will present on helping business owners understand how to increase the value and sell-ability of their business by providing advice on increasing business value, developing exit plans and sale strategies.

What if someone walks in your door and makes an offer to purchase your business?

“We’ve been fortunate to partner with

New exhibition gives glimpse of artist’s wit and creativity

CHARLTON Courthouse Gallery will come alive with colour, wit and creativity in August as it hosts a major retrospective of the work of local artist and storyteller, Jenny Pollard.

The exhibition opens officially on Sunday and offers a broader glimpse into her creative journey.

Spanning decades and a multitude of mediums, Jenny’s work ranges from expressive life drawings and whimsical cartoons to abstract collages, textile pieces and large-scale murals.

Her distinctive style is playful, thoughtful and deeply personal, often blending technical skill with a strong sense of narrative and humour.

“We are really looking forward to showcasing Jenny’s vast array of work,” says Courthouse Gallery secretary, Carolyn Olive.

“Her creativity has touched so many areas of our community – this is a wonderful chance to see it all in one place.”

Jenny’s formal training in art and design, combined with her wide-ranging interests – from photography and silversmithing to cake decorating and digital design – has resulted in a body of work that is both diverse and deeply engaging. Whether through a finely inked cartoon or a bold brushstroke mural, her ability to capture the quirks and character of life shines through.

Startup Central Victoria to bring the experience of Michael to Loddon. Loddon Shire Council are also providing support” Mrs Murphy said.

Michael recently spoke at the Business Mount Alexander and the Castlemaine Fringe Festival in June.

Containment day talks care beyond ticking boxes

LODDON graziers have explored containment methods at a field day hosted by Willera Merinos.

The day was presented in conjunction with stock agents McKean McGregor.

Stud manager Simon Coutts said: “We don’t consider ourselves trail blazers by any stretch but the containment was an opportunity to share some insight into our thinking and why the two systems we use work really well within our overall sheep system,

“Every year we have a target number for our sheep enterprise in terms of wool, lambs on the ground, surplus sales and kill stock, and every single year we try to position ourselves so that that comes to fruition.

“Droughts, floods or commodity prices do not rule our decision making, we must as a business be in as much control at any one time as possible.

“This year our backs were against the wall on all fronts geographically, all three properties were under the pump and in the past we could pull a relief valve and roll the trucks through but we couldn’t this year

The basic but effective pens

here were put up in haste to counter that and give us as much room as possible for pregnant stock with this years drop in mind.

“Simple but effective and built to suit the different feeding styles we’ve used in the past, built strong and on well drained soil (other than a few trough issues of late) with a cambered feed pad for the mixer and the obvious tweeks like ringlock upside down and proper feedlot troughs with fast fill, fast replenishing water and the site was perfect with shade and the locality to the yards.”

He said that happened fast, the next step was giving a list of feed tests for on-hand fodder for live

weight and a target weight gain.

“A few small things like adding water to the mix and utilising the machinery we have and its serving the purpose perfectly the stock are hitting the target on point and more importantly the impacts of a tight season were mitigated for the next generation and their mothers,” he said.

“When we got these pens operational we had just on 4000 in them with the Sangus pens full at 2000, we shall see what the benefits of doing this come back like when this year’s lambs go through the cradles.

“What we’ve learnt from years of finishing and containment feeding is that we can be as physically prepared as possible, tick all

Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report

Most categories saw a firm to dearer trend following this week’s rainfall.

Monday, July 28th, 2025 - Bendigo Yarding: Lambs - 7,500 | Sheep - 5,500

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

Alex Collins - 0408 314 768

Will Lowe - 0498 381 584

Will Holt - 0417 686 814

Zeb Broadbent - 0447 002 844

Drew Stratton - 0414 576 371 Lachie McAllister - 0459 310 797

Alex Pollock - 0409 145 832

Henry Bugge - 0403 671 917

Mitch A’Vard - 0429 966 572

the boxes with imprinting lambs, have the resources and the staff to make it happen and tick all the boxes with animal husbandry and induction, but the overriding driver of the success of us making it all work is the genetic package we now have.”

Simon said some of those points were not limited to Merinos and goes for all breeds.

“But for us as Merino breeders with a large scale commercial enterprise is that we can multiple out the genetic gain impact from the top, year on year on a large scale.

“Ultimately it comes down to how efficient our sheep are in terms of converting grass, grain or hay into wool, meat and lambs,

the key word and selection criteria for us as seed stock producers is balance.

We simply give our animals every possible chance to express their genetic potential, because we believe and are proving that this package rewards you if we are willing to invest in it.

“We’ve based every breeding decision we’ve made around creating a multi-dimensional animal that compliments our way of farming.

“Because the day we hone our focus in on one aspect of a sheep we lose a massive portion of our income, but if we possess balance we can pull one reign harder than the other,” Simon told farmers at the containment day.

District farmers attend the containment day workshop at Willera Merinos

Basin report cops spray

THE 2025 Basin Plan Evaluation portrays a deliberately deceiving snapshot of the Murray-Darling Basin and ignores the real-world reality facing farmers and communities in the region.

According to Victorian Farmers’ Federation water council chair Andrew Leahy, said the Murray–Darling Basin Authority appears more focused on defending its own plan than objectively evaluating the impacts after last week’s release of the report.

“While the report declares, ‘we are better off with the Basin Plan’ and claims the Basin’s environment ‘is better now than it would have been without the Basin Plan’, it does so by measuring ‘economic growth’ against a baseline year of 2007, in the middle of the devastating Millennium Drought.”

“Farmers were forced to sell water under financial pressure from banks and rising input costs. Using this year as a reference point for ‘economic improvement’ is misleading.”

“Of course there has been some rebound since then. The real question the report refuses to ask is what economic growth could we have achieved if the Basin Plan hadn’t stripped productive water from regional economies?”

“I live in northern Victoria, and the impacts are real. Fewer farms, means fewer jobs, fewer people in our schools, and fewer kids on the footy and netball teams.”

SHEEP

AND LAMBS

THE smallest lamb yarding for some time was seen at Bendigo on Monday at just 7270 head.

Sheep numbers remained similar and it was the mutton market which showed the most price reaction to the wet weather.

Not all processors were represented or fully active.

The lamb market did show a dearer price trend, but in reality most processing lambs remained in a similar price band of 1100c to 1300c/kg cwt - it was just that costs for the main grades pushed a little higher again, partly due to less weight and quality.

As an example the limited run of heavy export lambs were estimated at 1220c/kg cwt.

The strongest demand was from domestic processors for any neat trade lambs in the 21-26kg cwt range amid very short supplies.

Any Merino lambs in this weight range with shape and fat cover sold well to match crossbred money at times.

Lightweight lambs sold to a dearer trend in an overall market that was very robust across all weights and grades.

Heavy export lambs $401 to a top of $439/head. Main run of heavy lambs 26-30kg cwt $305 to $370/head. Best heavy trades $280 to $340/head, with mixed trades of various weights mostly $220 to $265/head.

A blanket range of 1100c to 1300c/kg covered the majority of sales, with select pens of neat domestic lambs in short skins pushing just over $13kg at times. Lead pens of fed Merino trade lambs $228 to $260/head.

Decent light lambs with frame and some fat cover mostly $140 to $215/head; secondary and very light lambs $27 to $115/head.

The mutton market did fluctuate but showed dearer trends, with any bigger lines of woolly Merino ewes selling to strong competition despite some of these sheep appearing to have little fat cover and weight underneath the fleece.

Prices were $10 to $20/head dearer and more at times. On a carcass basis a lot more sheep sold above 700c/kg cwt with some lines pushing above 800c and well into the estimated 800c/kg cwt range at times.

Heavy ewes $223 to $275/head; good trade sheep $150 to $220/ head; decent lines of light sheep a lot dearer at times at $130 to $155/head.

There was still some scrappy clean-up winter lots of a few head which sold below the 700c/ kg cwt threshold.

EXOTIC LAMB

Glen Williams Capels Crossing (10) $250. MG & BR Hipwell Koyuga (27) $175.

HOGGETS

Colvin Family Trust Eppalock (5) $255. CROSSBRED LAMBS

BC & AM Martin Barham (68) $439. Ilfracombe Donald (18) $420. PJ Main Barham (27) $405. BC & AM Martin Barham (86) $401. AJ Wilson Boort (51) $358. MJ Lawless Numurkah (26) $350. A & L Hiscock Pty Ltd Pyalong (12) $335. Fairfields at Mysia Mysia (35) $334. R.A.M.J. Pty Ltd Knowsley (24) $322. F & M Schmidt Powlett Plains (33) $318. Colvin Family Trust Eppalock (68) $305. Nutbyrne Pty Ltd Knowsley (101) $294. D & F Graham Moama (70) $291. DI & CL Palmer Bamawm (66) $288. J & L Hooppell Moama (77) $258.

MERINO LAMBS

Kellalac Pastoral Newbridge (110)

$266. TM Brown & Sons Moorilim (34)

$260. G & T Sait Nareewillock (242) $257. Ilfracombe Donald (31) $250. Karwoola P/L Terrick Terrick (25) $236. Henderson Pastoral Darraweit Guim (9) $228. R & B Pascoe Elmore (71) $210.

DORPER LAMBS

K Lewis Knowsley (21) $220. DJ Fleming Glenaroua (18) $185.

MERINO WETHERS

Fairfields at Mysia Mysia (35) $288. CROSSBRED EWES

EF & MEJ Evans Moama (6) $257. Lislea Lodge Picola (68) $258. BJ & CM Anderson Heathcote South (32) $244. JM Hiscock & Sons Pyalong (52) $236. AB & KB Broom Neereman (24) $200. MERINO EWES

Daniel P Tuohey Gunbower (17) $260. JN & PA Flanagan Womboota (38) $226. Pompapiel Pastoral Pompapiel (22) $204. A Arthur Kanumbra (62) $176. Wilkin Environmental Services Harcourt North (27) $155.

Next week’s order of sales: Nuttall, McKean McGregor, Elders, Nevins, Nutrien.

SUPPLIED BY ASSOCIATED STOCK AGENTS

Don’t sacrifice beef traceability, says VFF on import change

THE FEDERAL Government’s decision to lift biosecurity restrictions on beef imports from the United States should not be at the expense of traceability, the Victorian Farmers’ Federation said. “There’s no second chance when it comes to protecting Australia’s multi-billion dol-

CLEARING SALE

ESTATE OF MR D. CLAXTON

EILES ROAD, MAIDEN GULLY Vintage Tractors, Cars, Stationary Engines & Sundries

AUCTION OPENS: 14TH AUGUST AT 9AM

AUCTION COUNTDOWN TIMER ON: 18 TH AUGUST AT 4PM

Vintage Tractors & Cars: 1939 Rare prewar Lanz Bulldog (Going), 1927 Morris Cowley Tourer (Going), 1928 Morris Cowley Sedan (Going), 1938 Morris 8 Saloon (Going), 1952 Fordson Major EIA Petrol/ Kero model, 1952 Fordson Major E27N Tractor, 2 X Fordson F Model Tractors (Steel Wheels), Ferguson TEA Tractor, Ferguson grey Tractor (painted red)

Steam & Stationary Engines: Jelbart 12HP Engine on transports (almost complete), Hornsby & Sons 6HP ball covered engine, 1927 Ronaldson &Tippett 6HP Engine on transports, Clutterbuck No777 Engine, Waterloo Boy gasoline 5HP Engine, Large assortment of Lister, Roseberry, Rushton &Hornsby, International, Kelly & Lewis, Buzzacott, Fairbanks, Wolsley, Banford in various conditions, Blackstone 3HP oil engine, JAP England petrol engine plus a host more entries of engines & steam parts. Please refer to the full catalogue.

Sundries: Numerous sized steam whistles, antique farm implements including Hay Baler, Mulboard Plough, Ploughs, Qty lots of oilers & magnetos in bulk lots, various saw bench’s/ swing saws, 3PL 6’ Grader Blade, 3PL Ripper, 3PL Scoops, 14’ X 6’ tilt tandem car trailer, 3 X various farm trailers, anvil, Assorted ammo boxes with tools, chains, ropes & sundries, antique tin trunks (2).Extension & step ladders, various oil bottle/ cans/ signs, Assorted tools (Electric & Hand), Antique & Vintage blow/oil lamps, Stihl chainsaw & Blower, Air compressor, assort water skis (Single & Multiple), rare collection fortified port (24 lots approx.) Plus host of sundries too numerous to particularise. Terms: Invoices will be emailed to successful purchases within 48hrs of completion of sale.

Direct Deposit payment on completion of the sale. Payment receipt to be presented at collection of goods.

All Accounts to be settled prior to collection of goods. Strictly NO Payments to be made on the day of collection No GST or Buyers Premium Applicable

Inspection Dates: Saturday 2nd August from 9.00am to 12.00pm, Saturday 9th August from 9.00am to 12.00pm.

Mechanic on-site from 10am to 11am to start vehicles.

https://auctionsplus.com.au/auctions/machinery/estate-of-mr-d-claxton-fp-nevins-inglewood-vi/126456

On Auctions Plus Search: Estate of Mr D Claxton

Collection Date: Saturday 23rd August from 9am-1pm

Photos & Catalogue Details: https://auctionsplus.com.au/auctions/machinery/estate-of-mr-dclaxton-fp-nevins-inglewood-vi/126456

On Auctions Plus Search: Estate of Mr D Claxton

Further Particulars: Luke Nevins: 0418 510 166 Flynn Lock: 0490 371 475

lar livestock industry from the threat of any biosecurity risks,” president Brett Hosking said.

“Australia produces some of the cleanest, safest and healthiest food in the world and the government must be one hundred percent sure any imported product doesn’t risk

WOOL REPORT

devastating the local industry. Traceability is key when it comes to managing biosecurity risks and we must never compromise on our strict entry requirements.”

The Government says the US introduced more robust movement controls earlier this year.

The Australian wool market held the final sale before the annual three-week mid-year recess last week. This sale has the potential to behave in one of two ways. Buyers needing to fill orders, have this final auction buying opportunity in which to do so. This can result in pressure on specific pockets of the market, as buyers compete over similar lots needed to complete their export orders. This in turn can lead to an upward turn in the market. The potential downside of the break, is that some buyers are reluctant to start new orders, knowing that filling the order before the break could be problematic. In welcome news to woolgrowers, it was the first scenario that transpired this week. With 37,946 bales available to the trade, competition was often fierce across specific wool types, as buyers fought to complete orders needed for immediate shipment. Fremantle selling only on the first day, was yet to enjoy the rises on offer in the previous series. The Western region heads into the recess on a buoyant note after a strong finish.

The Western Micron Price Guides (MPGs) closed between 19 and 31 cents higher. In the East the market pushed further into positive territory, adding further gains to those experienced over the previous few weeks. The Eastern MPGs increased by between 5 and 38 cents. The benchmark Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) added 18 cents for the week, closing at 1,239 cents. The market continues to enjoy a strong start to the 2025/26 wool selling season. The EMI has risen across all four-selling series of the new season. In further positive news, although playing its part, currency was not the driving influence on the market. The EMI rose by a similar amount in USD terms. The market is now in recess.

Sales will resume week beginning Monday the 18th of August.

Source: AWEX

Good genetics, all conditions

THE priority of Terrick West Poll Merinos is high-volume, high-quality and softhandling 18-19 micron wool on large fertile dual-purpose animals.

“Delivering consistent returns in all soil, feed and climate conditions,” is how co-principals Ross and Claire McGauchie view their development of the stud’s genetics.

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

The stud is part of the acclaimed Loddon Valley Merino region and has a strong reputation, having won major titles at various sheep shows.

Terrick West kicks off the Victorian Merino stud sale season and Ross says his stud will again be including ASBVs on all sale rams.

“Full genomics testing of these animals, including poll tests will be available,” he said.

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

sires. “Terrick West’s consistently bulky and deep-crimping wool ensures ongoing wool clip value in addition to profitable meat production,” he said.

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

Terrick West Stud was founded by Edgar McGauchie and his sons Cyril and Eric in 1932. Today Eric’s son, Ross together with his wife Robyn and daughter Claire manage Terrick West Poll Merinos. Claire is the fourth generation of McGauchies to help set the vision and direction of Terrick West Poll Merinos.

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

And Terrick West has a sustained record of achievement on the national stage and locally. At this year’s Loddon Valley Merino Field Day, the stud was awarded both the best pen of three rams and best pen of three ewes.

“Our young stud sire TW 220405(Max)

won the Supreme Junior Ram at Bathurst Show last year. He was shorn again in M arch and went on to be Grand Champion March Shorn Ram in Dubbo and Reserve Champion in Adelaide. We have had good interest in semen sales from him with 400 doses sold so far,” Ross said.

“Our rams consistently show the genetics to improve strength and quality.”

Top rams and top interest at the Terrick West ram sales

Kedleston Park Poll Merinos

Friday August 22

Offering 40 rams

Breeding for flock profitability

RAMS from award-winning Calivil Merino stud Kedleston Park are boosting profitability for farmers across central Victoria and into New South Wales.

John and Rosemary Humbert’s dual-purpose offering is recognised by graziers for genetics that produce good fleece weights.

“We average 19.5 microns offering a good balance for fine wool between quality and quantity,” said John who this month exhibited at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show’s national fleece competition and was awarded with the Grand Champion prize.

“Our genetics are in demand across the region for farmers wanting that good wool quality in a segment of the market that attracts the better prices.

“We are breeding to increase the returns our clients can achieve for their flocks for both wool and sales of stock for meat production.

“Our rams and their genetics are suited to most parts of Victoria.”

John said demand for Kedleston Park’s genetics had seen semen sales in central New South Wales, including the New England region.

“Our clients recognised the im-

portance of putting Kedleston Park genetics into their breeding ewes and put rams at our annual on-property sale and throughout the year ... we sold one ram for $20,000 before last year’s auction

“Our 2025 auction will have again have a depth in the offering at price points for all existing and new clients with an eye for grow-

ing fleece and flock profitability.”

High lambing percentages will be a further selling focus for the offering from Kedleston Park that benchmarks its genetics at major shows.

At the 2025 Australian Sheep and Wool Show, Kedleston Park matched its success in the fleece competition with achievements

Major prizes at

on the show mat - Grand Champion March Shorn strong wool Poll Ewe, reaching the final five of National March-shorn pairs that was contested by more than 50 teams, third in the All-Purpose national final and a swag of event ribbons.

“The Grand Champion fleece certainly set the scene for what was to be our most successful

show since we registered the stud in 2005,” John said.

“This year we are offering a line of rams from Kedleston Park Prime - a new meat Merino family we have established with great success with genomic ASBVs average figures of this sale group being YWT 11.05, YEMD 2.34, YFAT 0.97, YCFW 34.24 and SL 13.71.”

the Australian Sheep and Wool Show

Rosemary and John with their Australian champion fleece

Packages with multiple strings

WILLERA Merinos 7th year selling rams on property at auction will have 160 rams go under the hammer.

Stud manager Simon Coutts said the 2025 offering will have particular relevance to the first half of the year which was extremely tough, but also rewarding in terms of lamb prices.

“Never more has it been more important to have a genetic package with more than one string to its bow,” he said.

“Durable and fertile, deep and well covered, quick growing and early maturing with uncomplicated productive skins are all traits that this year’s auction team have plenty of.

“As the season settles into a more attractive pattern and the demand for replacement breeding stock grows along with the grass, ask yourselves, do your breeding objectives allow you to breed the most profitable and desirable merino for all market aspects, and will you be able to take advantage of it.“

Willera will be offering 160 rams on August 29 with an open day on August 22.

“As always all rams are Genomics tested with full pedigree,” Simon said. The first 20 lots are graded with the balance in tag sequence. Private selection rams will also

be available from September 1 by appointment.

“Tag sequence gives everybody a chance to target a higher class ram at any time through the auction.”

Reflecting on the season, Simon said: “We realise some areas have been affected more severely than others and the flow on affects will take some time to recover from.

“We at Willera always try to learn from the tough times and use these experiences to position ourselves more preparedly for the next.

“Sometimes easier said than done but it does give you the opportunity to re-evaluate some parts of the operation and look at ways to do things better and even capitalise on it.

“Last year we looked at genetic trends and how the Willera sheep sit within the industry, the 2024 drops have once again moved towards the directions our objectives desire and pleasingly sit us in the top ranked studs for many of these performance and welfare traits.

“Our more recent focus traits, for instance worm resistance and dag have moved significantly for the better and will be reflected in this year’s auction and private selection ram teams.”

Willera’s Lot 1 ready to be auctioned at the on-property sale

FEATURES | OPINION & QUIZ

Disguising decline in country voice

Rural seats with metro votes, writes Miki Wilson

I WAS standing in a paddock with landholders discussing the transmission lines that are going to go through their properties, when we got the call a few months ago to say that the Emergency Services and Volunteers levy had been passed through State Parliament.

Since then we have seen the Federal Government of Prime Minister Albanese re-elected, a government will be introducing an unrealised capital gains tax.

All of this, together with the cost of living and potential drought, renewable zones through prime agricultural land got me thinking, what the heck has rural Victoria done to deserve this?

Of course, cost of living and taxes affect everyone, but rural Victoria seems to be copping a lot of other government interventions. Is it punishment?

I don’t know, but frankly it doesn’t seem equitable with our metropolitan counterparts reaping the benefits of all these rural impositions.

I wondered a bit about whether the structure of government favoured metropolitan Melbourne over rural areas, did a bit of research and learned a lot! Some of which may provide me and you with an explanation on why we feel so embattled in rural Victoria.

The Victorian Parliament consists of two houses; the two houses of Parliament are the Legislative Assembly, or Lower House

and the Legislative Council, or Upper House

Although they are referred to as ‘houses’, the Assembly and the Council are actually two groups of people elected to debate issues, pass laws and hold the government to account.

The two houses are independent. Sometimes they disagree, and one house cannot control what the other decides.

Neither house is more powerful than the other. Although the term ‘Upper House’ is often used to describe the Council, it is not superior.

Upper houses of parliament are critical to overseeing and scrutinising the actions of governments, and to providing representation to regional populations.

The present design of Victoria’s upper house — the Legislative Council — reinforces urban domination of Victorian politics.

The present model is made up of eight electoral regions comprised of five members and has been in force since the 2006 state election, following a change to the Constitution Act 1975 to abolish the longstanding system of 22 two-member electoral provinces.

At the 2006 state election, the number of members of the Legislative Council was reduced from 44 to 40, and the number of electoral regions was reduced to eight, comprised of 11 Legislative Assembly electoral districts and with each region electing five members for four-year terms.

YOUR ONLINE WORDS

BENDIGO BANK HQ SHUTS AGENCIES IN LOCAL TOWNS

Daniel Nolan writes: That’s what happens when a bean counter takes the helm, exactly the opposite of Marnie and what the Bendigo Bank used to stand for.

Bruce McCahon writes: If the agency is operating in the black it’s closure cannot be justified. I hope all Loddon consumers adjust fittingly. Which is exit the Bendigo Bank

Teagueir Botticelli writes: Yet another company streamlining itself out of existence.

Mick Korong wites: They are a business. Worse is they are a bank. They don’t care about you! They are just like every other bank. Cash is the only way to take back your little bit of control.

Anthony Radford writes: Amazing what happens when the Bendigo people lose influence in the Bendigo Bank. Not one Bendigo person on the board and very few in the exec. Takeover is complete.

Peter Goegan writes: It’s all about maximising profits. The myth about community care and support from corporations is just rubbish.

Peter Bell writes: Just what country townships need, another nail in the

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Loddon Herald welcomes letters to the editor from readers. Preference will be given to letters of 300 words or less and must include your name with address and phone number provided for verification (not publicaton). We reserve the right to edit letters for legal reasons. Send your letters to loddonherald@gmail.com

OPINION PIECES

This representation of regional and rural areas is flawed. The eight electoral regions— five of which are in metropolitan Melbourne, and three of which are in regional Victoria—means regional Victoria is allocated 15 members in the Legislative Council while Melbourne is allocated 25 members.

This disguises a significant and growing numerical advantage for Melbourne: the regional electorates are not strictly confined to the regions but extend into suburban Melbourne.

For instance, the Eastern Victoria region reaches into Ferntree Gully and Croydon North, which are indisputably suburbs of Melbourne.

As regional electorates continue to increase in size, more Melbourne suburbs will continue to be allocated to regional Australia, diluting the parliamentary representation of non-Melbourne voters.

This imbalance undermines the ability of the upper house to check the parliamentary dominance of high-density urban areas and represent the interests and values of less populous but economically critical regional areas.

So I’m thinking that voters need to talk to their local MPs to ask how do we make it fairer for rural/regional Victoria when decisions are being made in parliament?

Miki Wilson is Loddon Shire’s Inglewood Ward councillor

coffin, all for the greed of the banks wanting more money for the shareholders. They do not care about their customers it seems

Michelle Miller writes: In Bendigo Bank’s new advertisements, they call themselves the better Big Bank. Who cares, we just want a bank that looks after their customers.

Bruce Moffat writes: If people used cash to pay instead of just tapping there card or phone this would not happen but it has because so many people still asleep.

Marie Schroeder writes: It’s a disgrace.

From the Loddon Herald facebook page

1. Kylie Minogue first achieved recognition when she starred in which TV show?

2. Francis II was the last leader of which empire?

3. The surname of which US president can also be used to refer to a vacuum cleaner?

4. What is considered a perfect score in ten-pin bowling?

5. Kimchi is a traditional side dish from which country?

6. What was the original name of search engine ‘Google’?

7. Ballistics is the science dealing with what?

8. ‘Pride and Prejudice’ is a novel written by whom?

9. A Cassowary is what type of animal?

10. Which country has won the Davis Cup tennis tournament the most times?

11. What name is given to someone who breeds or raises snails?

12. On how many national flags does the ‘Southern Cross’ constellation appear?

13. Name them.

THOUGHTS come at all the odd times and second thoughts could be soon after, or in the vacuum of a delayed reflection - guess Bradley of Boort’s latest Treemendous Sign could signal those thoughts at any time.

NOW thoughts at meetings can come thick and fast. Last week, a pair of Loddon farmers headed off to a gathering of likeminded travellers. They were in the same car, sat at the same table and debated the same motions. That’s where the spirit of togetherness and unity ended for a few hours. They adopted contrary positions in their speeches and voting ... the looks across the table as a hand went up opposing their view point.

BUSHY TALES BY IAN JONES

15. The tomb of which Pharoah was discovered by Howard

16. What is currently the most popular dog breed in Australia?

17. What is Victoria’s tallest mountain?

18. The Stern is which part of a ship?

19. What type of organism is seaweed?

20. What is the three-letter code for Melbourne airport?

WE can report that the pair - kind of a Laurel and Hardy-type act of renown, did leave together and before one headed from near Wedderburn to his final destination of the evening, was offered a warm cup of tea. “I survived,” he said.

L

AST week’s Loddon Shire citizenship ceremony was scheduled for the beautiful park across the road from the council chambers. A beautiful and extended drop of rain saw it moved indoors. One was heard to ask, when receceiving invitation, whether umbrellas were going to be provided or was it BYO.

THE brollie is said to date from ancient Egypt around 2600 BC, depicted as a flabellum, a fan of palm-leaves or coloured feathers fixed on a long handle.

14. The initials C and S in the author C.S. Lewis’ name stand for what?

Carter?

1. Neighbours 2. Holy Roman Empire 3. Herbert Hoover 4. 300 5. Korea 6. BackRub 7. Projectiles in motion 8. Jane Austen 9. Bird 10. USA 11. Heliculturist 12. Five 13. Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Brazil 14. Clive Staples 15. Tutankhamun 16. Cavoodle 17. Mount Bogong (1986m) 18. The back 19. Algae 20. MEL

Dorothy’s days of silk and satin

FAMILY love and community warmth have been with Loddon’s newest centenarian Dorothy Poxon all her 100 years. Son Paul has written this special look at the life of an amazing lady.

DOROTHY Poxon (née Rees, formerly Watts) was born on July 25, 1925 at Inglewood Hospital.

She grew up in Inglewood with her parents and five brothers: Fredrick Alan, James Leslie (“Noey”), John Watts (“Arkie”), Arthur David (“Bonza”), and Peter William. Her father was particularly excited about her birth, promising to dress her in silks and satin nylons. Being the only girl, she got on well with all her brothers.

Her early years were filled with a love of learning and playful activities. Dorothy loved school and started when she was five years old. She attended St Mary’s School in Inglewood, run by the Presentation Sisters, and achieved her Merit Certificate.

Her classroom had a stage, and her love of theatre and performing began there. She was always to the fore and prominent in school concerts, and she loved being in plays.

Dorothy enjoyed playing outside, including bike riding and swimming in the dam. She also loved playing “shops” using empty boxes on shelves and bottle tops as money. Sport was a significant part of her school life, including tennis, and later netball and lawn tennis at the convent school.

She loved going over to her grandma’s house, which was opposite theirs, where they would do a bit of cooking together. She helped her Aunty Kath with gardening. Family gatherings with cousins for special occasions were always treasured.

During her teen years, Dorothy took piano lessons, which her brother Fred encouraged. She could still play a tune even later in life.

She developed a love of dressing up and performing, participating in war concerts and being part of a concert party called Sparkling Follies. They used a local sanitary cart to transport costumes and scen-

ery to different towns for performances. During one procession, she dressed up as Charlie Chaplin and won a prize, which she felt was when her love of dressing up truly began.

Though initially incredibly shy, taking a job at Medlin’s Drapery in Inglewood when she was about 17 helped her overcome this by forcing her to speak to people. She worked there for approximately eight years.

World War Two also occurred during Dorothy’s teen years. Three of her brothers, Fred, Jim and Jack, were in the army. Her brother Jim was taken as a prisoner of war in Singapore. The family was devastated by Jim’s capture and concerned for his wellbeing while he was in the prison camp. Thankfully, he came home safely. Seeking a change, Dorothy moved to Ararat in 1950. She worked in Leo Simpson’s drapery shop, doing office work and window dressing. It was there, while dressing a window, that she met Francis George Rees. Frank declared upon seeing her that she was the girl he would marry.

When Frank proposed, they were quite a few miles out of Ararat. Dorothy had changed her boarding to live with a family who had a farm up on a hill. He proposed there, under the moonlight. It was quite romantic.

They were married on April 19, 1952 at St Mary’s Church, Inglewood. Dorothy got on well with the Rees family.

Frank’s job took them to various locations, including Bendigo and Ballarat, before they made the big move to Melbourne. They initially lived in a flat in Bligh Street, Brunswick. Frank enrolled in night school to study television technician work, changing his career direction. They later bought a house in Preston.

It was in Preston that they had their four children: Paul, Julie, David and Matthew. Dorothy’s love of exercise began when she joined a mothers’ calisthenics team while living there.

In 1965, the family moved to Boort. Frank and Dorothy thought Boort was a great place to raise their children.

Soon after settling in, Dorothy started

exercise classes in the Memorial Hall. These classes, which included yoga and aerobics, were very well attended for over 25 years. Her passion for theatre also continued. She became involved with the MLA Society, producing and performing in plays. These were often community and family efforts. She was also part of Amity, a women’s group that performed and became quite professional. She worked in local shops in Boort, as she loved meeting people.

The 1970s brought significant personal losses, including the deaths of her mother in 1970, her Aunty Kath, her cousin Joan and her father.

After Frank suffered a heart attack in 1977, he retired early. Frank passed away in December 1988. Dorothy received wonderful support from her family, the community and friends during this difficult time. A great joy in her later life was the birth of her grandchildren. She has four grandchildren: Maddison, Laura, Charlie and Ned. She is also a great-grandmother to Miles, son of Maddison and Matt, born in January 2022.

Dorothy enjoyed travelling, taking solo tours overseas as well as trips with family. She performed entertainment at the nursing home with Ernest Levi Poxon.

Their friendship developed, and they were married on 23 November 2001 in Bendigo. They moved into a unit together in Lake View Street, Boort, in 2002. She continued to enjoy travelling with Ern. Sadly Ern passed in January 2018.

Religion remained important to her throughout her life, and she enjoyed being involved with St Patrick’s Church in Boort, where she made lifelong friends.

Family gatherings, birthdays and Christmas were always very meaningful times for the Rees and extended family. Dorothy also always loved dogs and enjoyed the features of Boort, such as the lake, birdlife and walking paths.

In July 2019, Dorothy moved into Loddon Place. She appreciated Father Eugene’s monthly visits and the church services held within Loddon Place.

Lighting 100 candles for Dorothy’s cake on Sunday. LH PHOTO

Dorothy (centre) with Matthew, Paul, David and Julie at Sunday’s birthday party. LH PHOTO

PUBLIC NOTICES

Expression of Interest -Toyota Hiace Bus

Council is seeking expressions of interest for the purchase of a Toyota Hiace bus, which has reached its end-of-life as a council asset. This 11-seater bus was purchased in March 2000. The current odometer is 252,015 kms and it is in fair condition.

For further details and photos please follow the link below: http://www.vendorpanel.com.au/tenders

Search for Loddon Shire Council open Tenders and Expressions of Interest Expressions of interest close 5:00pm Thursday 7 August 2025.

PYRAMID HILL

Retrospective Exhibition

Jenny Pollard

Official Opening Sunday 3rd August, 2pm

Opening Times Sat/Sun 9th & 10th Sat/Sun 16th & 17th 10am – 4pm

Charlton Courthouse Gallery 8 Camp Street, Charlton. Entry by Donation

FRIDAY 8th AUGUST

MENS 4BBB v STABLEFORD

Including Jim Stewart Memorial Hit off 11.00am till 12.00pm

Post Entry $40/pair

NTP – Hole 16 $250 prize donated by Terricks Engineering

SATURDAY 9th AUGUST

MENS 27 HOLE STROKE

Pre Entry

27 Hole Event - $30/player

Assembly 9.00am/Hit off 9.30am (Lunch provided)

MENS/LADIES 18 HOLE

STROKE

18 Hole Event - $20/player

Assembly 12.00pm (Lunch provided)

SUNDAY 10th AUGUST

- 3 PERSON AMBROSE (any combination) - JAN BURKE MEMORIAL

3 Person Ambrose Mixed Event (must include at least one lady) Hit off 11.00am till 12.00 noon

Post Entry $45/team

MEETINGS

Fentons Creek Recreation Reserve Committee of Management

Notice is given of a public meeting

To be held at Fentons Creek Hall on 20th August 2025 at 5.30pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or no more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Fentons Creek Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term expired on 15 June 2025. 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 Energy, Environment and Climate Action office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary Carolyn Stephenson 0417148053.

Annual General Meeting Thursday 21st August 2025 at 3pm. At the Wedderburn Museum & Coach House Gallery

Inglewood Senior

Annual General Meeting to be held on the 18th August 2025 at 75 Grant Street, Inglewood. Meeting opens at 1.30pm. Contact Samantha 0433 965 006

Palmody Bus Lines

Shay shines in scratch event

WEDDERBURN’S annual golf tournament saw players battling through more than 40mm of rain on the Saturday – but the conditions couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm.

A total of 22 players braved the big wet on Saturday, with entrants from as far afield as Nepean, Queenscliff and Ringwood golf clubs.

Brad Duke took out the A Grade 27-hole scratch event with 111 (41 and 70), while Craig Boucher won the handicap event with 118. Phillip Shay (77) won the 18-hole A Grade scratch title on a countback from Byron Bird and Craig Byrne.

The handicap event went to Shane Hearps, while Bird won the nine-hole handicap prize.

Sunday’s 2-Person Ambrose attracted 40 players, with Peter Sanderson and Graeme Nesbit winning the A Grade scratch event with a score of 71. Handicap winners were Tony Holt and Owen Lockhart on a nett 67.

On Friday, 64 players entered the men’s 4BBB Stableford contest. A Grade winners were Wedderburn’s Tony Holt and Royal Melbourne’s Henry Minson on 46 points, ahead of Mitiamo’s Paul Condliff and Inglewood’s David Vanston on 42.

B Grade was won by Logan

Wilson from Neanger Park and Harry Condliff from Mitiamo with 49 points.

Ladies 4BBB went to Axedale’s Kerry Scales and Geelong’s Cate Shay with 44 points, while B Grade victory went to Charlton’s Dianne Roberts and Alison Tormey, who scored 42 points.

PYRAMID HILL

Pyramid Hill Golf Club celebrated Jim Hoban Memorial Day with a “count your putts” contest. Steady-handed club president Steve Gibson putted his way to glory.

The other big winner of the day was Jarad Smith, who fired a nett 67 and a commanding 39 points to top the leaderboard.

Rounding out the field on a very competitive day were Adam Twigg – Nett 71 (36), Jason Deller – Nett 71 (35); Harry Goodes – Nett 74 (35) and John Kennedy – Nett 72 (34).

Shelby Giorlando is congratulated by Kelsea Nisbet and Tahlia Hargreaves after a goal against Donald.

NORTH CENTRAL HOCKEY

MEN: Sea Lake Nandaly d Charlton 3-1. Wedderburn lost to Donald 1-2. Calder United d St Arnaud 2-0. Ladder: Calder United 28, Donald 25, St Arnaud 26, Calder United 22, Boort 17, Wedderburn 14, Sea Lake Nandaly 6, Charlton 0. WOMEN: Sea Lake Nandaly lost to Charlton 1-8, Wedderburn d Donald 6-2, Calder United d St Arnaud 2-0. Ladder: St Arnaud 30, Charlton 27, Calder United 27, Boort 15,

AUCTION

113 Baringhup-Eddington Road, Baringhup

Friday the 19th September 2025 @ 11am Baringhup Hall

167.2ha or 413.88 acres of farming land, including 700 megalitres of secured underground water.

-3 phase underground water bore -3 x 60 acre centre pivot irrigators

-Lasered irrigation bays

-Highly productive red loam soil type

-Suitable for broadacre/horticulture crops, (potatoes previously grown on current property)

5% Deposit / Settlement 60 Days

Agent: Troy Driscoll 0428 641 112 / troy@driscollag.com.au

MALLEE HOLDINGS 8208 ACRES * WALPEUP EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Lot 1 as a whole known as 'Stones'/'Corbetts' Mallee Aggregation of 8208 acres*

Lot 2 known as 'Corbetts' 1 & 2 Parallel Road - 2602 acres*

Wheat, barley and lupin rotation. Grazing opportunity for prime Mallee lambs.

Lot 3 known as 'Corbetts' 3 Joyce Road - 872 acres*

Lot 4 known as 'Stone's' Parallel Road - 4734 acres*

Divided into 12 paddocks - GWM Water connected - 4 stand shearing shed and yards - access tracks - shelter belts - 2 outer sheep yards - typical 'Walpeup' ridge soil type.

For sale as a whole or as 3 separate allotments

Contact the selling agent for further information and to arrange an inspection.

Brett Douglas: 0447 162 455 / brett@driscollag.com.au

Wedderburn 13, Donald 4, Sea Lake Nandaly 0. UNDERAGE: Sea Lake Nandaly lost to Charlton 0-13, Calder

United lost to St Arnaud 2-6, Birchip Watchem lost to Boort 1-6. Ladder: Charlton 33, St Arnaud 25, Donald 15, Boort 16, Calder United 11, Sea Lake Nandaly 7, Birchip Watchem 7. UNDER 12: Sea Lake Nandaly lost to Charlton 0-7, Wedderburn d Donald 9-0, Calder United d St Arnaud 3-1, Birchip Watchem d Boort 2-0. Ladder: Calder United 34, Charlton 34, Birchip Watchem 33, St Arnaud 22, Wedderburn 13, Boort 7, Donald 6. Sea Lake Nandaly 4.

LH PHOTO

Brad Duke and Geoff Weston

UNDER 18

SENIORS

Mitiamo 1.2 1.3 4.6 7.9 (51)

BL 2.3 8.9 12.13 17.16 (118)

GOALS - Mitiamo K. Galvin, L. Lougoon 2, J. Rasmussen, R. Duncan, A. Cussen. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: J. Mellington 10, R. Turner, N. Kemp 2, H. Gadsden, J. Addlem, J. Laird.

BEST - Mitiamo: L. Lougoon, M. Gilmour, J. Falls, J. Matthews, R. Duncan, Z. Myers. Bars Lagoon Serpentine: J. Addlem, J. Laird, N. Kemp, J. Mellington, T. Miles.

Maiden Gully

0.1 0.3 0.4 0.5 (5) Marong 4.4 5.7 6.10 7.12 (54)

GOALS - Marong: M. Bradbury, N. Devanny, D. Johnstone, T. Davies, K. Manley, K. Robins, S. Knott.

BEST - Maiden Gully: S. Fiske, A. Robins, G. Brown, E. Crisp, D. Russell, M. Whitham. Marong: M. Bradbury, R. Tibbett, L. Lee, N. Devanny, T. Davies, K. Thomson. Inglewood 3.3 7.7 12.11 16.14 (110) Calivil 0.1 0.2 0.5 0.6 (6)

GOALS - Inglewood: C. March 4, S. Erharter 3, J. Bennett, C. Martin, B. Cotchett, F. Payne, L. Ford, K. Cavallaro, L. Matheson, D. Polack, S. Polack.

BEST - Inglewood: G. Nevins, B. Cotchett, T. Murphy, H. Veitch, L. Ford, L. Matheson. Calivil: J. Leach, S. Green, J. Maher, J. Steel, J. Connolly, J. Manderson. Bridgewater 6.8 12.11 16.20 20.26 (146)

Newbridge 0.0 2.0 2.0 2.2 (14)

GOALS - Bridgewater: L. Sharp 12, T. Estrada 3, J. Merrin 2, J. Roberts, L. Ellings, B. Derrick. Newbridge: C. Dixon, H. McGillivray.

BEST - Bridgewater: L. Sharp, D. Ferguson, L. Ellings, J. Merrin, T. Estrada, B. Alexander. Newbridge: L. Nihill, B. McKinley, C. Hoye, J. Teasdale, C. Argus.

Bridgewater 15 13 2 0 1 189.60 52 Marong 14 12 2 0 2 200.28 48

RESERVES

Maiden Gully 0.0

(21)

Marong 3.5 5.8 7.9 7.10 (52)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: M. James, J. Leech, J. Doolan. Marong: D. Blume 3, T. Grant, G. Reade, K. Harris.

BEST - Maiden Gully: M. James, H. Devanny, D. Downing, J. Covington, K. Kerrison, T. Martin. Marong: G. Reade, R. Gretgrix, A. Collins, M. Grant, L. Hale, G. Dowler. Inglewood 1.4 3.6 3.8 3.10 (28) Calivil 1.3 1.3 3.5 5.5 (35) GOALS - Inglewood: J. Whittle, J. Essex, K. Simpson. Calivil: T. Harcourt 2, C. Binnie, S. Fawcett, B. Richards. BEST - Inglewood: J. Whittle, J. Leach, T. Kilcullen, A. Lister, M. Jeffrey, B. Smyth. Calivil: D. Canfield, T. Piazza, J. Bonanno, J. Coad, C. Binnie, B. Richards. Bridgewater 0.3 1.8 1.9 3.11 (29) Newbridge 2.2 2.2 3.2 4.2 (26)

GOALS - Bridgewater: M. Baker, A. Pollock, B. Holt. Newbridge: J. Dawkins 2, C. Van Aken, D. Smith.

BEST - Bridgewater: J. Higgins, J. McKinley, A. Pollock, T. Naughton, J. Bowen, M. Baker. Newbridge: A. Moore, C. Van Aken, R. Cathie, D. Smith, T. Wight, J. Dawkins. Mitiamo 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.4 (4)

BL Serpentine 2.5 4.5 8.7 9.10 (64)

GOALS - Bears Lagoon Serpentine: F. Holland 4, K. Paxton 2, J. Murley, S. Gladman, J. Gladman.

BEST - Mitiamo: J. Cassells, C. Pearson, E. Hocking, D. Mitchell, L. Shiell, M. Storey. Bears Lagoon Serpentine: L. Murley, T. Clarke, K. Paxton, F. Holland, J. Murley, M. Hancock.

Inglewood 15 11 4 0 1 205.12 44

Pyramid Hill 14 8 6 0 2 111.78 32

BL Serpentine 14 5 8 0 2 102.80 20

Newbridge 14 5 9 0 2 67.54 20 Maiden Gully 14 4 10 0 2 75.95 16 Calivil 14 4 10 0 2

GOALS - Bridgewater: T. Waters 2, J. Larson. East Loddon: A. Addlem, F. Clymo, T. Rasmussen, T. Tweed, L. James, M. Haw.

BEST - Bridgewater: T. Waters, D. Cullen, A. Frankling, A. Lawson, L. Lonsdale, T. Woodhatch. East Loddon: T. Rasmussen, J. Ketterer, O. Balic, F. Clymo, T. Tweed, B. Dawe. Maiden Gully

Marong

(59)

(29)

GOALS - Maiden Gully: N. Hadden 3, S. Neervoort 2, D. Wharton, D. Bown, O. Taylor. Marong: R. Doorty 2, C. Murphy, J. Gribble.

BEST - Maiden Gully: N. Hadden, O. Taylor, J. Wittingslow, Z. Turner, S. Neervoort, T. Brook. Marong: W. Thomson, D. Radford, R. Doorty, R. Hayden, J. Miller, H. Roberts. Marong

Loddon

NORTH CENTRAL

SENIORS

St Arnaud

GOALS - Calder United: G. Turner, D. Munro, T. Vearing 2, M. Farmer, S. Kennedy, D. Pearce, J. Marlais, R. Smith, H. Connolly, M. Trzeciak. St Arnaud: J. Hicks.

BEST - Calder United: G. Turner, J. Marlais, M. Trzeciak, K. Hommelhoff, S. Kennedy, M. Farmer. St Arnaud: B. Durward, D. Schilder, H. Durward, O. Lowe, T. Bertalli, J. Needs. Sea Lake Nandaly 6.3

(7)

(142) Charlton 0.0

GOALS - Sea Lake Nandaly: M. Cahoon, J. Keogh, J. Summerhayes 4, A. Pattison 3, A. Collins 2, W. Donnan, C. Allan, R. O’Sullivan, C. Michael. Charlton: D. Whykes.

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: W. Donnan, T. Donnan, J. Keogh, M. Cahoon, J. Poulton, C. Michael. Charlton: M. Collins, J. Thompson, R. Thompson, B. Hooper-Dixon, J. Harris, B. Kemp.

Birchip Watchem 4.3 8.9

14.17 (101) Boort 1.1

(30)

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: B. Edwards 7, T. Gibson, N. Rippon 2, R. Hogan Jr, B. Lakin, C. Frank. Boort: L. Hall, E. Coleman, J. Dick, N. Whyte.

BEST - Birchip Watchem: B. Lakin, B. Edwards, D. Hinkley, C. Frank, N. Rippon, A. Dean. Boort: J. Lanyon, C. Egan, T. Potter, M. Austin, J. Keeble, J. Dick.

Wedderburn

(121)

Donald 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (0)

GOALS - Wedderburn: M. Jensen 7, Z. Pallpratt 3, B. Bacon, N. Furlong 2, M. McEwen, J. Mortlock, H. Lockhart. BEST - Wedderburn: Z. Pallpratt, M. Jensen, J. Mortlock, N. Furlong, M. Robinson, M. McEwen. Donald Seniors: D. Pearce, J. Smulders, K. Green, H. Forrest, D. Bell-Warren, R. Bath.

Birchip

RESERVES

Birchip Watchem

GOALS - Birchip Watchem: M. Berry

S. Pye, J. O’Donnell, A. Lewis. Boort: J. Dowling 2, A. Cockerell, B. Hewlett, P. O’Rourke, C. Hatcher, J. Hird.

BEST - Birchip Watchem: M. Rickard, S. Pye, J. Lindeback, T. Colbert, M. Berry, C. Boyle. Boort: F. Millar, J. Baker, C. Ross, B. Herrington, J. Sheahan, J. Hird.

GOALS - Wedderburn: A. Smith, L. Maher, J. Hubbard, A. Roberts. Donald: G. Pearse 3, G. Morgan 2.

BEST - Wedderburn: L. Sims, J. Hall, R. Tonkin, A. Younghusband, M. Lockhart, C. Hargreaves. Donald: G. Morgan, J. Sheridan, J. Lopes, D. Tatarskyj, G. Pearse, B. Harrison. Sea Lake Nandaly

(119)

(19)

GOALS - Sea Lake Nandaly: J. Clohesy 9, L. McClelland 3, M. Elliott 2, T. Griffiths, B. Allan, I. Durie, C. Elliott. Charlton: C. Boyle 2, I. Bourke.

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: L. Martin, J. Clohesy, B. Weir, L. McClelland, C. Elliott, I. Durie. Charlton: J. Boyles, F. Bourke, M. Thompson, E. Needs, A. Johnstone, I. Bourke.

(58)

(37)

GOALS - Calder United: C. Green, R.

H. Senior, C. Fawcett 2. St Arnaud: T. Ward 2, G. Gorrie, B. Greenaway, O. Lowe, J. Hicks.

BEST - Calder United: B. Forrester, C. Fawcett, R. Botheras, J. Ison, L. Cooper, K. Kennedy. St Arnaud: J. Kell, S. Elliott, O. Lowe, B. Greenaway, Z. Notting, B. Williams.

UNDER 17

BEST - Calder United: A. Cowell, T.

R.

B. Donald, S. Bridgeman, C.

F. Don-

F. Wilson.

BEST - Wedderburn: A. Ward, R. Amor, A. Smith, B. Cunningham, J. Penrose. Donald: H. Funcke, O. Brennan, J. Lydom, J. Nuske.

(19)

BEST - Sea Lake Nandaly: C. Wight, C. Mott, J. Durie, C. Symes, Z. Wight, B. Allan. Charlton: I. Bourke, M. Fitzpatrick, J. Monaghan, M. Olive, M. Boyle, J. Chamberlain. Birchip Watchem

BEST - Birchip Watchem: O. Cook, K. Hamilton, B. Perry, T. Atkinson. Boort: O. Byrne, C. Gould, J. O’Flaherty, B. McPherson, C. Gooding, D. Perryman.

UNDER 14

BEST - Birchip Watchem: M. Greenaway, W. Ryan, J. Coffey, G. Greenaway. Boort Under: S. Muller, N. Howe, A. Lee, M. Soumelidis, T. Stringer.

(73)

(0)

- Sea Lake Nandaly: H. Cox, A. Smith, S. Pearce, K. Wight, R. Allan, H. Wight. Charlton: I. Roberts, L. Monaghan, C. Mcgrath, T. McGurk, C. Riley.

BEST - Calder United: D. Polzin, H. Humphreys, M. Beattie, J. Harrison, R. Harrison, N. Harrison. St Arnaud: C. Hendy, C. Kirk, L. Lowe, D. Kirk, F. Wilson, P. Zsigmond. Wedderburn

(0)

(67)

BEST - Wedderburn: C. Gault, T. Pearce, a. clarke, J. Dierickx, J. Laverty-Smith. Donald: E. Geddes, N. Michael, N. Clapham, R. Jones, S. Mortlock, J. Italia.

LODDON VALLEY

Not quite close enough

BEARS Lagoon Serpentine’s bid to make the A Grade netball finals is all but over.

A narrow defeat to unbeaten Mitiamo has the Bears two games behind Marong and with an inferior percentage with just two rounds left to play.

Serp’s battle with the Superoos was a tight affair until Miti surged, scoring 14 goals to seven in the third quarter to set up a 4535 win.

The Bears have games against fourth-placed Newbridge, and Calivil, in seventh spot on the ladder, to come.

They will need to win by huge margins to bridge the percentage gap to Marong, while the Panthers need just one victory to ensure their finals appearance.

However, they face Mitiamo this week and then Newbridge to round out the season.

„ Winless Inglewood began well against Calivil on a slippery home court but couldn’t sustain the pressure after quarter-time.

The Woodies were just three goals behind at the first break, but the Demons scored 13 goals to four in the second quarter to establish a solid lead.

They pressed home their advantage in the second half with 30 goals to 13.

The win pushed Calivil ahead of Maiden Gully into seventh place on the ladder.

Next Saturday is Inglewood’s last chance to win a game this season when the Woodies play second-last Maiden Gully before a final-round bye.

„ A tight first quarter turned into a rout when Bridgewater took on Newbridge.

The Mean Machine turned a two-goal lead into a 19-goal mar-

gin at half-time and coasted home 62-38 to overtake the Maroons in third place in the battle for the double chance in the finals.

Bridgewater has the bye this week before taking on Mitiamo in the final round, so Newbridge can grab third spot on the ladder if it can overcome Bears Lagoon Serpentine and Marong in the next two weeks.

„ Marong was untroubled in a 40-goal win over Maiden Gully that saw the Panthers shore up fifth place.

They held a comfortable lead all day against the Eagles before showing their skill with19 goals to four in the final quarter.

The Panthers face a tough task at home against top side Mitiamo this week before finishing the home and away season with a trip to play fourth-placed Newbridge.

Double chance at stake in Derby

BOORT’S 24-goal win over Birchip Watchem in North Central A Grade netball has set up a ‘Loddon Challenge’ grudge match against Wedderburn that will help decide who gets the double chance in the finals.

The Magpies are third on the ladder behind the Redbacks and Sea Lake Nandaly, with less than two per cent separating them from the Tigers on 40 points each with 10-3 records.

Wedderburn remains undefeated after thumping Donald by 70 goals but faces a stiff test away at Boort.

If you draw a form line through the Bulls, who lost to the Redbacks by just eight goals a week earlier, the Magpies will confront their fierce local rivals with some confidence.

Boort led by 11 goals at the first break against Birchip Watchem and steadily increased that margin over the course of the 62-38 win.

The Bulls are in a tight battle

with Calder United for fourth spot on the ladder with three rounds remaining.

„ Wedderburn’s one-sided clash with Donald was highlighted by a second half in which the Redbacks scored 34 goals to six.

Coach Susie Lockhart said all the team played well, with Holly Lockhart a standout at goal attack.

She was also impressed by Kelsey Pallpratt’s versatility in playing all three mid-court roles at different times.

LODDON VALLEY NORTH CENTRAL

A Grade

Mitiamo 9, 19, 33, 45, (45) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 9, 17, 24, 35, (35). Inglewood 8, 12, 20, 25, (25) lost to Calivil 11, 24, 37, 54, (54). Maiden Gully 7, 14, 21, 25, (25) lost to Marong 16, 33, 46, 65, (65). Bridgewater 12, 34, 45, 62, (62) d Newbridge 10, 15, 28, 38, (38).

Hill 48

36

36

Serpentine 24

12

Gully 12

0

A Reserve

Inglewood 8, 14, 21, 28, (28) lost to Calivil 8, 25, 40, 46, (46). Maiden Gully 13, 24, 33, 44, (44) drew with Marong 10, 19, 28, 44, (44). Bridgewater 12, 28, 37, 45, (45) d Newbridge 11, 20, 29, 44, (44). Mitiamo 14, 28, 37, 51, (51) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 4, 11, 16, 20, (20).

42

Gully 42

Pyramid Hill 38

Newbridge 30

Mitiamo 26

Calivil 18

BL Serpentine 8

Inglewood 0

B Grade

Bridgewater 10, 20, 26, 36, (36) d Newbridge 4, 10, 17, 26, (26). Mitiamo 7, 12, 18, 23, (23) lost to Bears Lagoon Serpentine 11, 20, 28, 41, (41).

Maiden Gully 7, 15, 20, 24, (24) lost to Marong 9, 25, 36, 45, (45). Inglewood 5, 14, 17, 29, (29) drew with Calivil United 5, 14, 21, 29, (29).

A Grade

Sea Lake Nandaly 6, 17, 28, 35, (35) d Charlton 5, 10, 18, 21, (21). Wedderburn 18, 34, 51, 68, (68) d Donald 5, 12, 15, 18, (18). Calder United 15, 34, 51, 67, (67) d St Arnaud 5, 12, 20, 23, (23). Birchip Watchem 8, 18, 28, 38, (38) lost to Boort 19, 30, 46, 62, (62).

Wedderburn 52

Sea Lake Nandaly 40 Boort 40

Calder United 28

Birchip Watchem 24

Donald 16

Charlton 6 St Arnaud 2

B Grade

Sea Lake Nandaly 15, 30, 42, 52, (52) d Charlton 3, 7, 15, 23, (23). Wedderburn 21, 42, 59, 77, (77) d Donald 8, 15, 22, 32, (32). Calder United 7, 20, 31, 43, (43) d St Arnaud 9, 13, 23, 33, (33). Birchip Watchem 55 d Boort 32.

“We’ve got three new players in the team this year, and I’m still learning things about the players,” Lockhart said.

The Boort challenge would be a serious one, she said, with the Magpies having a lot riding on the outcome.

“It makes the players realise that they do have to have to continue to work hard,” Lockhart said.

In other matches, Calder United held onto fourth place with a 44-goal win over bottom-placed St Arnaud, and Sea Lake Nandaly took out a low-scoring affair against Charlton 35-21.

Sea Lake’s grip on second spot on the ladder ahead of Boort is tenuous, with clashes against Wedderburn and Calder to follow this week’s likely win over Donald.

Calder’s final-round meeting with Sea Lake will be pivotal to both teams, as Calder would be expected to win against Charlton and Donald in the next fortnight.

6 B Reserve

Inglewood 6, 14, 22, 31, (31) d Calivil 14, 21, 26, 29, (29). Bridgewater 13, 30, 40, 53, (53) d Newbridge 9, 17, 26, 35, (35). Maiden Gully 11, 20, 31, 43, (43) d Marong 9, 19, 26, 33, (33). Mitiamo 5, 14, 27, 37, (37) d Bears Lagoon Serpentine 11, 16, 23, 31, (31).

Under 17

Maiden Gully 12, 23, 32, 44, (44) d Marong 7, 16, 21, 24, (24). Inglewood 2, 8, 12, 18, (18) lost to Calivil 10, 24, 36, 55, (55). Bridgewater 16, 27, 39, 49, (49) d Newbridge 2, 4, 4, 5, (5). Mitiamo 5, 11, 16, 24, (24) lost to Bears Lagoon Serpentine 11, 22, 32, 44, (44).

Bridgewater 52

Calivil 52

Maiden Gully 40

Marong 36

BL Serpentine 28

Mitiamo 18

Pyramid Hill 16

Inglewood 10

Newbridge 4

Under 15

Inglewood 0, 1, 1, 2, (2) lost to Calivil 26, 46, 72, 96, (96). Mitiamo 6, 12, 16, 18, (18) lost to Bears Lagoon Serpentine 19, 26, 37, 50, (50). Bridgewater 9, 21, 38, 49, (49) d Newbridge 2, 5, 5, 7, (7). Maiden Gully 7, 10, 15, 21, (21) lost to Marong 13, 23, 32, 42, (42).

Calivil 56

Marong 44

Bridgewater 40

BL Serpentine 40

Maiden Gully 26

Pyramid Hill 22

Inglewood 20

Mitiamo 8

Newbridge 0

Under 13

Inglewood 6, 11, 12, 13, (13) lost to Calivil 3, 7, 9, 15, (15). Maiden Gully 7, 15, 24, 33, (33) d Marong 3, 13, 16, 18, (18). Bridgewater 1, 4, 5, 7, (7) lost to Newbridge 4, 10, 15, 23, (23).

Mitiamo 7, 8, 16, 20, (20) lost to Bears Lagoon Serpentine 4, 14, 21, 28, (28).

Newbridge 56

Calivil 40

Maiden Gully 40

Marong 36

Pyramid Hill 28

Bridgewater 24

Inglewood 16

BL Serpentine 12

Mitiamo 4

Sea Lake Nandaly 20, 32, 45, 63, (63) d Charlton 6, 9, 16, 18, (18). Wedderburn 15, 28, 38, 50, (50) d Donald 5, 9, 15, 19, (19). Calder United 10, 20, 31, 38, (38)

Calder United 14, 23, 31, 41, (41) d St Arnaud 4, 6, 8, 8, (8). Birchip Watchem 7 lost to Boort 50. Sea Lake Nandaly

Wedderburn 8, 21, 30, 42, (42) d Donald 2, 4, 12, 16, (16). Calder United 14, 28, 35, 49, (49) d St Arnaud 6, 13, 18, 26, (26). Birchip Watchem 40 d Boort 30. Sea Lake Nandaly 2, 11, 17, 24, (24) lost to Charlton 6, 17, 26, 39, (39).

United

Watchem

Sea Lake Nandaly

(20

Kesley Pallpratt

Inglewood’s Carley Stanford shoots towards goal on Saturday. LH PHOTO

GOALKICKING

Dominant Redbacks play one for the history book

FOR JUST the second time in North Central senior football history a team has been held scoreless in a game, with Wedderburn crushing Donald by 121 points last Saturday.

The hapless Royal Blues joined the Birchip Watchem side from round nine in 1981 in failing to score.

Wedderburn coach Tom Metherell was unaware of his team’s historic feat and played down its significance with a season-defining clash with arch-rivals Boort coming this weekend.

“It’s a good little stat,” he said, but it was not something his team had focused on.

50 - (0) - Mitchell Pickering - Inglewood

50 - (0) - Raymond McNamara - Marong

46 - (0) - Lincoln Hancock - Maiden Gully

41 - (2) - Riley Doorty - Marong

23 - (0) - Wilhelm Thomson - Marong

19 - (0) - Tyler Murphy - Inglewood

17 - (0) - Liam Budge - Maiden Gully

17 - (1) - Fynn Clymo - East Loddon NORTH CENTRAL SENIORS

90 - (7) - Ben Edwards - Birchip Watchem

60 - (0) - Jhye Baddeley-Kelly - Boort

49 - (7) - Mitch Jensen - Wedderburn

44 - (0) - Jack Exell - Calder United

39 - (4) - Max Cahoon - Sea Lake Nandaly

29 - (2) - Nicholas Rippon - Birchip Watchem RESERVES

37 - (1) - Alex Cockerell - Boort

30 - (9) - Joel Clohesy - Sea Lake Nandaly

29 - (2) - Matthew Berry - Birchip-Watchem

29 - (0) - Alexander Hay - Birchip Watchem

24 - (0) - Zachary Wemyss - Sea Lake Nandaly

23 - (2) - Heath Senior - Calder United Lions

23 - (0) - John Summerhayes - Sea Lake Nandaly

THIS SATURDAY

LODDON VALLEY

Calivil v Pyramid Hill

Marong v Mitiamo Bears Lagoon Serpentine v Newbridge Maiden Gully v Inglewood

Bridgewater bye NORTH CENTRAL

Donald v Sea Lake Nandaly

Charlton v Calder United

St Arnaud v Birchip Watchem Boort v Wedderburn

League teams available on Thursday nights at www.loddonherald.com.au

In sloppy conditions at Donaldson Park, the Redbacks steadily increased their lead throughout the match.

Four goals in the first quarter were followed with six, three and four majors respectively in the other terms as Donald struggled to get the football into its forward line.

Metherell said his team had played to the conditions, sharing the ball around in attack when they might normally have had shots on goal.

“We played smart footy in the forward half, and we were good in the one-on-ones.”

Star forward Mitch Jensen kicked seven goals for the Redbacks to move to 49 for the season, and was among the best along with Zach Pallpratt, who booted three goals of his own, Jye Mortlock and Noah Furlong.

For Donald, coach Daniel Pearce stood out in a side where good players were hard to find with his hard work in the midfield.

The Royal Blues finished fourth last season but have not won a match this year and have a woeful percentage of 13.85 with games against Sea Lake Nandaly (third), Calder United (second) and Boort to come.

„ Boort sadly missed star utility Jhye Baddeley-Kelly in its 71-point loss to Birchip Watchem

on Saturday. The Magpies could only manage four goals against the top of the ladder Bulls, recording their second-lowest total for the season.

Baddeley-Kelly is averaging five goals per game himself, with 60 from 12 matches, and has been named in the best players list nine times.

The Magpies could score just one goal in the first half – the first of the match in the eighth minute to Ethan Coleman – as the Bulls charged to a 50-point lead at the main break.

Boort was more competitive in the third quarter, kicking 2.2 to 2.4, but gave up another four goals to two in the last term.

The Bulls’ dominance showed with 31 scoring shots to Boort’s 10 on a day of awful weather.

Four players kicked a single goal each for the Magpies – Coleman, Jayden Dick, Lachlan Hall and Nick Whyte.

Named as Boort’s best were Jonathan Lanyon down from Darwin for the weekend, Carlos Egan, Tom Potter, Matt Austin, James Keeble and goalkicker Dick.

The Magpies now have a mustwin clash with local rivals Wedderburn at Boort Park as they cling on to fourth spot and the last place in the finals.

The Redbacks, two games behind the Magpies but with a superior percentage, are the only side which can dislodge Boort from fourth, but they can’t afford a slip up in their remaining three games.

After Wedderburn, Boort has two matches that should reap comfortable victories, against St Arnaud away and Charlton at home.

„ Other matches were also desperately one-sided, with Sea Lake Nandaly moving into third place on the ladder after beating Charlton 21.16 to 1.1. Likewise, St Arnaud could only score 1.1 against Calder United, which kicked a lopsided 13.25 for a 96-point win.

- GARY WALSH

LADDER-leading Bridgewater has got in early with a swag of key re-signings for 2026, weeks before the finals have begun.

The most important is the reappointment of Lachlan Sharp as coach after his impressive season, as the Mean Machine pushes for its first flag since the seven premierships in a row from 2010-16.

The solo coaching role has not dimmed Sharp’s dazzling form on the field, with the gun forward just two goals short of a century and Mitiamo to come in the last round after this week’s bye. The Mean Machine has already locked away 13 players for next season, including Sharp. Midfielder Luke Ellings, who

is among the favourites for the Frank Harding Medal after a fine debut season with Bridgewater, is among the re-signings, along with consistent veteran Jack Neylon.

Josh Martyn, Harry Conway, Darcy Ferguson, Nic and Toby Naughton, Charlton Hindle, Ben Derrick, Jay Bowen, Darcy Wood and Jacob Ellings – Luke’s brother – also have re

committed as the club looks to set up another dynasty.

Mitiamo has moved quickly to re-sign Luke Lougoon as coach for next year, with the greatly improved Superoos now seventh on the ladder with three victories after a winless 2024 season.

March takes early one-match ban

INGLEWOOD forward Callum

March will miss this week’s clash with Maiden Gully after accepting a one-match ban for striking. March kicked four goals in the Woodies win over Calivil and accepted his suspension through an early guilty plea.

The ban means he will not be available until the finals, with Inglewood having a bye in the final home and away round of the season.

Two players have entered early guilty pleas and accepted reprimands after the Maiden Gully versus Marong match.

Eagle Jaidyn Berry and Panther Matthew Willox were charged with engaging in rough conduct.

Slapstick in the goal square

By GARY WALSH

AT THREE-QUARTER time against Newbridge on Saturday, Bridgewater coach Lachlan Sharp – sitting on 97 goals for the season – told his players, “If it comes, it comes”, encouraging them not to focus on his looming milestone.

For the next 30 minutes those players totally focused on Sharp’s chase for the century in a quarter that at times verged on the slapstick.

The Mean Machine was leading by 104 points, so trying to feed the boss was unlikely to do any harm.

Sharp kicked his 98th for the year – and 12th for the game –early in the term from off the ground, and it appeared a matter of time before he brought up the ton in front of his home crowd.

Then things went a bit silly.

Sharp took a strong grab, had a set shot and hit the post; another set shot was touched by the player on the mark; other pings at the sticks were skied, fell short or were rushed through for a behind. He was double-teamed, scragged and generally harassed by a Newbridge side that had little to play for other than stopping Sharp.

The real vaudeville moment was when Tyler Estrada ran to within 15 metres of the goal, paused, looked behind him and contemplated handballing backwards to the coach who was jog-

Midfielder had a ball in the wet

BOOTS heavy and caked with mud, waterlogged socks weighed down around the ankles, a ball like a piece of soap – wet-weather footy is not for the faint-hearted.

However, for Inglewood midfielder Damien Polack, it’s actually welcome.

“As a small midfielder it suits me really well, with the ball being on the ground most of the time.

“Apart from the cold, I get excited for a wet-weather game now and again.”

Conditions last Saturday against Calivil made him feel right at home.

The ball, surprisingly for Polack, stayed in decent shape, and only “a couple of big puddles like a swimming pool” caused concern, but still the conditions were challenging.

“In the last quarter you realise how heavy your legs are – your boots are full of water and the ground has softened up,” he said.

“We hadn’t really played a wetweather game this season, due to better drainage of the grounds and not as much rain.

“We like to play nice footy, to hit players up on the lead … in the wet it’s just get the ball and get it forward.”

ging about 10 metres behind him. Sanity prevailed, and Estrada kicked the goal.

The Mean Machine managed a ridiculous 46 scoring shots to four in the wet, won by 132 points after kicking 8.15 in the second half, and now sits on top of the ladder ahead of a bye. Who knows what the margin might have been had the Bridgewater players kicked straight and

Nevins,

kept their heads in the last quarter.

Sharp’s 12 goals (making it 23 in two weeks) saw him as Bridgey’s best, along with the exceptional Luke Ellings, whose clean hands on a dirty day were remarkable. Darcy Ferguson, Jack Merrin, Estrada and Bo Alexander also stood out.

For Newbridge, Liam Nihill, Ben McKinley, Cooper Hoye, Jack

Teasdale and Caleb Argus were named as best players.

Veteran Chris Dixon and Hugh McGillivray kicked the goals, both in the second quarter.

Bridgewater now rests before travelling to Mitiamo in the final round, when Sharp would be expected to kick the two goals needed to reach 100.

The Maroons are away at Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

Cotchett add to Demons’ dreary day

CALIVIL was kept goalless in a 104-point defeat at a sodden Inglewood Community Sports Centre on Saturday in a match that sealed the Woodies’ finals spot.

The highway end goal square was like a kids’ wading pool, and the interchange area was also under water, but Inglewood managed to deal with the conditions much better than the struggling Demons.

Winless Calivil battled hard but kicked just 0.6 for the match to Inglewood’s 16.14.

The speed and skills of Gabe Nevins and Bregon Cotchett were on display for the Woodies, proving that the best players can cope with any conditions.

Callum March kicked four goals for the winners, while Seb Erharter booted three to take him to 56 for the season.

Inglewood’s fourth win on the trot – including an important victory over Pyramid Hill – and a loss by Maiden Gully to Marong has guaranteed a place in the elimination final, probably against Bears Lagoon Serpentine.

Coach Fergus Payne is looking forward to the final round bye, with a chance to rest weary bones more important than keeping momentum going.

“I think it will come at the right time. We’ve got one player with concussion and a couple with little niggles, so the week off will

hopefully mean we go into the finals fully healthy,” he said.

“Keeping a team goalless is nothing to be sneezed at, and we defended really well and started off how we finished the week before.

“You go back to the basics when you play in the wet – if you are clean, you’re halfway there.”

„ Maiden Gully’s bid to make the finals ended in ignominious fashion, with the Eagles failing to kick a goal against Marong at Marist College.

The Eagles had to win to keep the pressure on Inglewood but on their home ground, which is notoriously bad in wet conditions, could manage only 0.5.

Marong kicked 7.12 but it was scarcely a convincing win for

COUPLE of weeks ago, the Crystal Ball was glistening in hope that Saturday’s Loddon Valley league slash between Maiden Gully and Inglewood would be a season-defining encounter.

Fifth spot on the ladder would come down to this game.

Not now. Inglewood has shown it can more than trouble sides higher on the ladder and ram home the goals against those who will be watching from the boundary in a few weeks.

It was a close tussle when these sides met earlier in the season. But Inglewood has been strengthened by players back from injury and continuing to put faith in local youngsters.

That faith could take them well into the final series. A win this week by four or five goals.

The other matches will see another dismal outing for three teams,

Calivil is back at its Rodeo Park home against Pyramid Hill, knocked back a few pegs by Inglewood before having the bye last Saturday.

That loss to Inglewood would have hurt Pyramid Hill. No mercy will be shown to the struggling demons this weekend.

Bears Lagoon Serpentine is another team that has lifted a few cogs in recent weeks - they needed to - and Newbridge can expect a torrid time at Janiember Park.

the reigning premiers, who were coming off the bye following two successive losses.

Victory against Mitiamo this week will return Marong to the top of the ladder with one round remaining, displacing Bridgewater on percentage.

Ruckman Michael Bradbury was named Marong’s best in the win, along with Richard Tibbett, Lachlan Lee and Nathan Devanny.

Five players kicked a goal each for the Panthers.

Maiden Gully’s best on a bleak day were Stacy Fiske, Anthony Robins, Grayson Brown and Ed Crisp.

„ Full-forward Josh Mellington kicked 10 for Bears Lagoon Serpentine in the 67-point win over Mitiamo.

A six-goal second quarter from the Bears broke open the game after a tight first term.

The victory kept Serp fourth on the ladder.

Young star Jaxon Addlem was best for the Bears, with reigning Harding medallist Justin Laird, Nash Kemp and Mellington.

Coach Luke Lougoon kicked two for the Superoos to be their best contributor on the day, along with Matt Gilmour, Jackson Falls and Jayden Matthews.

Mitiamo travels to Marong next Saturday, with the Bears hosting Newbridge.

And Marong will shrug off the persistent Mitiamo after the first quarter at Malone Park.

The Panthers are still a chance to make it four flags in a row. You can bet they’ll be chasing a thumping win.

The margins last weekend, despite the wet grounds, showed that the ladder has teams in pretty much the right order a couple of weeks away from the finals.

The good teams adapted their style and delivered the goods in commanding fashion.

- GLENN CATTO

PREDICTIONS

GARY WALSH

Fergus Payne

Mud tussles at Newbridge. LH PHOTO

Loddon HERALD sport

LEGITIMACY TEST

BY GARY WALSH

BOORT’S finals credibility is on the line when the Magpies host fierce rivals Wedderburn in North Central senior football this Saturday.

More than local bragging rights are up for grabs, with the Redbacks making a late bid for the top four and the Magpies consistently faltering against the better sides.

Fourth-placed Boort failed again to trouble a team ahead of it on the ladder on Saturday, losing to top side Birchip Watchem by 71 points.

Wedderburn, sitting in fifth

Magpies go into Derby with just one big scalp

spot on the ladder, did all it could by keeping Donald scoreless in a 121-point win that put the Redbacks two games behind Boort, but now with a superior percentage.

Wedderburn added more than 15 per cent with its big win, while the Magpies dropped 14 per cent in a stunning turnaround of fortunes.

Boort has monstered two of the three bottom sides when they have met this season, with wins by 188, 167, 161 and 92 points

over Charlton and Donald. The Magpies have also won both clashes against seventh-placed St Arnaud, by 49 points in round one and 37 points in round eight.

Boort sat atop the ladder after four rounds following an eightpoint win over reigning premiers Sea Lake Nandaly.

It was the second of two matches senior coach Dale Cameron missed with illness.

Reality hit in round five, when the Magpies lost to Calder United by 125 points, establishing a dis-

turbing trend. Defeats followed to Birchip Watchem, Sea Lake – albeit narrowly – and Calder again, interspersed with those massive wins over the poorer teams and a slim victory over Wedderburn by five points when they met in May.

The Loddon Derby, no matter where Boort and Wedderburn sit on the ladder, are epic encounters.

Beat the Redbacks this week and Boort will ensure its appearance in the finals and end Wedderburn’s hopes.

Lose, and it must win its last two games against St Arnaud and Charlton to hang on to fourth - on current ladder standings, the uneven draw this season certainly favours the Magpies.

It will be a grudge match for the ages at Boort Park, and Tom Metherell’s Redbacks will be out to keep their own finals chances alive.

“We have to keep winning,” Metherell said.

“It’s a simple equation. “We’re playing some good footy at the moment – even against Birchip (a 23-point loss) we played well in patches.

“If we stick to our brand, we’re a chance against anyone.”

The Boort camp is maintaining its silence ahead of the clash and the Pies expected return to finals action after more than a decade in the wilderness.

Coach Cameron has stayed mum in recent months about the club’s fortunes in 2025.

RAIN, mud and chilly winds were braved by sports fanatics across the Loddon last Saturday. Wedderburn Golf Club’s annual tournament saw Ron Weston (left) don wetweather clothing while Geoff Weston and David Veitch opted for the more traditional umbrella and golf buggies to avoid showers. For footballers at Donaldson Park (above), there was no escaping the mud and puddles. LH PHOTO