FOOTBALL fever has its Loddon Valley league finale at Newbridge on Saturday when Bridgewater aims to stop three-time premiers Marong in their tracks.
Red and white streamers being waved by Mean Machine fans will blow from the boundary at Riverside Park.
Hundreds of Bridgewater’s supporters will be wearing specially-made badges with the faces of their football heroes and members of two netball sides also playing in season deciders.
The club had ordered 300 of the badges.
“We sold out within minutes of taking orders on Sunday night,” said president Tim Ferguson. READ MORE IN THE SPORTS SECTION OF YOUR LOCAL LODDON HERALD TODAY
Alfie’s on a mission
CUP HITS
STUDENTS covered themselves in cup glory on Tuesday when the greatest trophy in Australian horse racing came to the Loddon.
For the second time in two years, the golden Melbourne Cup valued at more than $250,000 was in the region.
Bridgewater on Loddon Development had students strutting the recreation reserve oval with hobby horses in graded races while some of their teachers and local residents joined fashions on the field
compered by Loddon Shire’s Inglewood Ward councillor Miki Wilson.
Students also lined up in the Memsie Handicap footraces and Jany Clutton used a hat box for sold raffle tickets raising funds for the group.
Former BOLD president Shannon Brown, acting as ringmaster for events, said bringing together students from Bridgewater, Inglewood, St Mary’s and Tarnagulla Primary School had been a great part of the day where several hundred people also had their photograph
ALFIE Coutts, 4, was on a mission at Willera Merino’s on-property ram sale at Serpentine on Friday. Oblivious to frenetic bidding on rams assembled for auction by father Simon, young Alfie wandered through buyers on his way back from the barbecue with a cursory glance for the auctioneer.
AUCTION REPORT - PAGE 9
with the famous trophy. A dinner in Bridgewater’s memorial hall on Tuesday night was a sell-out.
Bridgewater is among cup tour destinations in the running for a special cup sweep. BOLD has nominated Inglewood and Districts Health Service as its charity to receive any sweep winnings when the cup is raced in November.
Two years ago, the cup tour stopped in Boort for two days.
PHOTOS - PAGE 8
taken
Bridgewater’s Mick Balazs with the cup
Loddon HERALD
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WEEKEND FORECAST
Boort
Tin hall works way to wood
DINGEE is pulling out all stops to make the woodwork exhibition in its memorial hall for Loddon Valley Arts Trail a roaring success.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming Bendigo Woodturners and all the artists who are coming to show their work in Dingee,” Hall committee secretary Sandy Lister says.
“We want to make this a good three days for visitors and for our locals to enjoy, so we’ve been organising ways to welcome everyone.
“The Dazzlin Coffee van will be there each day from Friday to Sunday, and we’re also doing a barbeque from 11am to 1pm.
“On Saturday we’ll prepare sandwiches and cakes for afternoon tea, while Sunday’s af-
ternoon tea will be Devonshire scones and cream.”
The exhibition will have demonstrations as well as displays of furniture, sculptures and even a carving tool display.
The hall committee has also organised a vintage tractor and car display to complement the exhibition. This is the first time the historic tin hall has been included in the Loddon Valley Arts program.
“I couldn’t believe this wonderful hall is in Dingee, when one of the locals told me we ought to take a look and see if they’d be interested in taking part,” organiser Rosemary Sorensen says.
“Hall president Terry Kavanagh was very welcoming and as we stood on the front porch,
with the train from Bendigo pulling out of the station on its way to Swan Hill, I remember feeling elated that this could be part of our big shire-wide program.
“I’m only disappointed that time and resources meant we didn’t get out to Mitiamo to talk about including them too, but, if this one goes well, who knows what’s possible!”
Ms Sorensen said that the Dingee show is easily accessible to both Calivil, where there’s an exhibition“Beasts Birds Beyond and the East Loddon Woolshed at Serpentine. “We’re calling this the Big Skies tour, because this is a part of Loddon shire that really lifts your eyes to the skies and that feeling of space and light can really lift your spirits too.”
Project cost in a real spin
MURRAY Plains MP Peter Walsh, says the cost and impact of the State Government’s VNI project – and wider renewable energy strategy – has gone from the outrageous to the obscene.
Mr Walsh told Parliament the latest excess has been “advertising for 13 spin doctors and a boss at an annual salary total of more than $4 million”.
He says at a time when a Victorian Farmers Federation’s survey of 700 farmers showed 90 per cent of them do not trust this government the Allan Labor government’s response is to pour more spin on top of the smoke and mirrors surrounding its renewable energy fantasy.
“Just three years ago the Allan Labor government’s own 2022 offshore wind policy directions paper admitted ‘given Victoria’s low agricultural land area relative to other states, achieving full energy decarbonisation with only onshore renewables is an implausible project’,” Mr Walsh says.
“A classic example of that would be a recent story about the renewable energy zones, with the government saying they will only take up 7.9 per cent of the agricultural land here in Victoria. But the renewable energy zones will actually take up something more like 17 per cent.”
Hospital works on target
THE first stage of a $5.1 million hospital upgrade in Inglewood is expected to be finished within months.
Inglewood and Districts Health service chief executive offiCer Dallas Coghill said the urgent and acute care upgrade was progressing to schedule.
Mr Coghill said this week the project was at the half-way stage.
“Redevelopment of the acute services infrastructure is an important step forward in enhancing the delivery of high-quality healthcare to the local community.” Mr Coghill said.
IDHS received funding through the State Government’s Regional Health Infrastructure Fund and has engaged Brand Architecture and Bowden Group to complete the works.
“This redevelopment project encompasses the construction of two dedicated urgent care beds and eight acute care beds, designed to improve clinical capacity, patient outcomes, and operational efficiency,” Mr Coghill said.
“These enhancements will enable IDHS to better respond to the healthcare needs of the region with contemporary, purposebuilt facilities.
“This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening rural health services and ensuring our community has access to safe, modern, and responsive care.
“We are proud of the progress made to date and grateful for the continued support of our staff, stakeholders, and community.
IN BRIEF
Time to swoop
AS THE weather gets warmer and the days longer, we also start to see the occasional swooping bird. Native birds enter their breeding season in spring, and some may get protective of their young. Lachlan Clarke, manager statewide wildlife advisory services at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) said: “Swooping is a normal, temporary behaviour for native birds like magpies, butcherbirds and masked lapwings to defend their eggs and chicks for a short time while their young are most vulnerable. Think of it as a warning sign. They’re telling you to keep your distance.”
Public speaking
THE annual Jill Millie public speaking competition was held at Wedderburn College this week. The junior division was won by Violet Stephenson (Year 9) with Blaz Cramp second. The award for the senior division went to Indi Simpson (Year 11) from Kaitlyn Coughlin (Year 10).
Connection day
“Construction remains on schedule, with full completion anticipated in early 2026,” Mr Cohill said.,
The redevelopment aligns with IDHS’s strategic priorities of innovation, sustainability, and excellence in rural healthcare delivery.
“We want to acknowledge the work of our staff who have continued to be responsive to the needs of our community whilst working in some challenging circumstances,” Mr Coghill told the Loddon Herald. The upgraded facilities will support improved patient flow, enhance privacy and comfort, and provide a more effective working environment for clinical teams.
Mining plans are shafted
PLANS for low-level gold mining at Llanelly has been scuttled by Loddon Shire Council.
Councillors last week backed the recommendation of planning officer Darcy Jackson to refuse a planning permit for mining on a property in Alexander Lane.
Mr Jackson said two objections had been received to the prospecting application.
One objector said that while permission to access the property had been earlier granted, that had since been withdrawn.
“We do not want this activity on our land,” according to a redacted objection in council documents.
A second objection said the paddock had been GPS mapped and prospecting would inconvenience existing farming operations.
Mr Jackson said: “The zone’s purpose emphasises retention of productive agricul-
tural land, protection of primary production, and ensuring non-agricultural uses do not adversely affect farming operations.”
Applicants Harvey Lee and Jared Fleiner had wanted to bulldoze the paddock and detect mining for alluvial gold with progressive rehabilitation.
Their planning permit application said mining will occur in pits on average 25 metres wide, 50 metres long and 15 metres deep using a dozer, grader and excavator.
“Topsoil and leaf litter is removed and stockpiled in small piles away from the area of mining. Mining of the pit involves dozing overburden in thin layers and stockpiling adjacent to the pit separate from the topsoil,” their application said.
Land use, compromised efficiency of the existing agricultural use. and biosecurity risks were among reasons listed by council in refusing the planning permit.
“Throughout the redevelopment process, IDHS has maintained continuity of care and minimised disruption to existing services,” Mr Coghill said.
ORGANISERS of this Saturday’s Connect to Your Community day in Tarnagulla are expecting a good attendance. The town’s neighbourhood watch committee has put together a day of activities to promote connection and community safety.
Dallas Coghill and nurse unit manager Deb Youngson inspect progress of the upgrade works. LH PHOTO
New link puts a spanner into spring
LODDON has been linked into a regional spring tourism festival launched in Bendigo on Tuesday.
Walking tours of Kooyoora State Park and a special weekend at Spanner Man Gardens near Boort are in the seasonal campaign.
The Spanner Man weekend in November is being billed as the chance to “take a self-guided nature walk to a bird hide and spot native birds nestled in the Mallee vegetation – a peaceful escape for nature lovers”.
Dumawul Tours, part of the Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Corporation, will run a series of walks at Kooyoora over the next three months.
Loddon Mayor Dan Straub told the Loddon Herald before the launch that the attractiveness of the Loddon landscape in spring also extended to wattles and other parks.
“We’re seeing wonderful blooms of golden wattle - Australia’s national flower - everywhere we drive around the shire at the moment,” said Cr Straub.
“Our residents have this wonderful roadside and bushland vista every day in the early weeks of spring and it will be wonderful to see people travelling out from
Bendigo to witness the Loddon Shire in full bloom.
“There’s also the wildflowers in the north at Terrick Terrick National Park as well as Kooyoora that are our local blooming wonders.”
Cr Straub said at the launch with Bendigo counterpart Andrea Metcalf: “This partnership is a powerful step forward as we develop new destination campaigns together. Bloom is a taste of the exciting opportunities ahead and a fantastic way to showcase Loddon’s natural attractions and creative spirit,” Cr Straub said.
Bloom has more than 90 events across Greater Bendigo.
According to Bendigo council:
“The Bloom program reflects a newly formed Greater Bendigo Loddon Visitor Economy Partnership, which aims to unlock fresh opportunities for the region under the banner Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon, the peak tourism body for our region”.
““I’m thrilled that for the first time the Bloom program celebrates Loddon’s awe-inspiring nature and experiences that truly complement Greater Bendigo region’s many attractions.” Cr Metcalf said.
Land access Bill ‘fails rural communities’
CROSSBENCHERS have sided with the State Government to give powers to transmission company to enter private land.
The lasws were passed in the Legislative Council late Thursday day.
Amendments saw the size of possible fines reduced but farmers, including those on the VNI
West renewable energy transmission line, still risk fines of at least $8000 if they lock companies out.
Victorian Farmers’ Federation president Brett Hosking said the legislation risked further eroding trust at a time when co-operation is desperately needed to deliver the energy transition and failed
rural communities. “This Bill hands VicGrid coercive powers over landholders, while ignoring the need for genuine engagement, fair compensation and investment in rural communities.” “Farmers aren’t standing in the way of renewables, but we refuse to be trampled over in the process.”
A MINUTE’S silence was observed at Saturday’s Loddon Valley Football League preliminary final for two police officers slain at Porepunkah last week. League vice-chair Glenn Catto and Loddon police officers Leading Senior Constable Rueben Larson and Senior Constable Nick Dericki joined players on the ground at Calivil before the first bounce. LH PHOTO
Health service launches its giving month
THE month Give-Tember appeal was launched this week as Northern District Community Health looks to raise $50,000.
The Kerang-based service wants community support for projects including the fitout of its new facility in the Pyramid Hill Community Centre officially opened earlier this year.
Loddon Shire has signed off on an agreement with NDCH to use the new centre.
The NDCH appeal comes as a new Infrastructure Victoria report revealed that Victorian community health organisations receive just 0.3 per cent of state health infrastructure funding each year.
According to NDCH, that leaves regional and rural organisations without the funding needed to maintain and expand vital facilities. Chief executive officer, Penny Wilkinson, said this funding was critical in ensuring community health organisations, particularly those in regional and rural areas, can continue to deliver services into the local communities.
“Everyone, no matter where they live or what their background is, deserves a fair chance at good health,” she said.
That’s why regional and re-
mote community health organisations like Northern District Community Health are so vital,
“As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on a mix of government funding, fundraising, and the generous support of people in our local community. While government funding helps, it’s unfortunately not enough to meet the growing demand for our services.”
NDCH said money raised this month would go directly towards infrastructure projects and equipment designed to help expand access to care and “ensure essential healthcare remains within the community’s reach”.
“Some critical infrastructure projects just aren’t covered by Government,” said Ms Wilkinson.
“This appeal is an opportunity for the community to support big and small infrastructure projects that are critical to our ability to service the local community.
Whether it’s funding to support the fit out of our new facility at Pyramid Hill and improvement of our Quambatook site, or new blood pressure monitors, podiatry chairs and height adjustable beds at all our locations across the Loddon, Gannawarra and Swan Hill regions, it all makes a difference to the quality care we provide.”
If you want to have your say on the Inglewood Streetscape Enhancement project draft designs you have until Friday, 12 September to do so.
After that the feedback will be collated and discussed by the project team before a decision is made on the next steps.
To have your say scan the QR code below or visit https:// connect.loddon.vic.gov.au/inglewood-streetscapeenhancement.
Council's Draft Asset Plan is now out for public comment. The Plan is a vital tool that enables Council to plan for the future management of all the assets we manage, including roads, buildings and land.
To have your say please visit Council's website and follow the links from the home page. Listening posts on the draft plan will also be held in Boort, Inglewood, Newbridge, Pyramid Hill and Wedderburn.
A Special Meeting of the Loddon Shire Council will be held on Tuesday 9 September 2025, commencing at 3pm, in the Loddon Shire Council Chambers, Wedderburn to consider:
• Release of the Draft Community Vision 2035 and Council Plan 2025-2029 for community feedback and;
• Release of the Draft Financial Plan 2025/26-2034/35 for community feedback.
Council offers live stream and on-demand access to Council Meetings, enabling members of the public to view proceedings via the internet as an alternative to attending in person.
To obtain the link and up-to-date details visit Council’s website or scan the QR code below.
Purple day celebrated with pride
WEDDERBURN College students and staff celebrated Wear It Purple Day week to support LGBTQIA+ young people.
The day aimed to promote a world where “every young person feels safe, respected, and proud of who they are”.
During lunchtime, students were at the purple photo booth, dressing up in a myriad of purple props and taking part in the Polaroid Wall activity.
“It was wonderful to see students and staff of all ages getting involved,” said Molly Meadows of North Central LLEN.
“The activity brought so much positive energy, and it was a joy to see everyone having fun while celebrating what makes each of us proud.
The creativity, laughter, and pride on display really captured the spirit of Wear It Purple Day.”
The activity was facilitated by North Central LLEN through its Engage Program.
Molly said the day provided students with a chance to reflect on the importance of acceptance, kindness, and community while creating lasting memories.
Students signed their Polaroids before adding them to the Purple Pride Wall that became a visual celebration of diversity, inclusion, and school spirit.
The Loddon Shire Victorian Seniors Festival 2025 guide is now out. It's got all the information you'll need for the October festival, which features a gala event in Wedderburn on Wednesday, 8 October.
You can pick up the guide at your local post office, Senior Citizens Centre or Neighbourhood House or by scanning the QR code on the right, also has details on how to get your free cafe voucher.
Rates notices for 2025-26 are on their way to Loddon Shire ratepayers
There will once again also be four waste vouchers that can be used to dispose of up to 4 cubic metres of general waste free of charge.
Notices also contain information on how to lodge an objection should you disagree with your property's valuation.
Cr
Dakota Martin and Chanelle Bandenhorst celebrate Wear it Purple Day
New gates a GMW first
FIVE flume gates have been replaced with a new gate system at the Western Waranga Channel’s Fernihurst offtake.
According to Gouldburn Murray Water, the winter works will significantly cut maintenance costs.
Asset reliability manager Michael Hehir said the 92-year-old structure needed to be replaced due to its age and the deterioration of its concrete structure.
“The cost and resource use of maintaining that site had continued to increase over the last five to 10 years,” he said.
The regulator now has two flume gates and two undershot slip gates – a first for GMW.
Mr Hehir said the combination was expected to provide a significant cost saving.
“Over the 30 year life cycle of the four mechanical gates it’s anticipated we’ll save 25 per cent on maintenance costs,” he said.
Mr Hehir said there were several other benefits to the new structure including reduced wear and tear, being able to drain channels better to manage weeds, improving channel flow profile and reducing bank erosion.
He said any one of GMW’s 727 sites that have more than one flume gate may fit the criteria to have an undershot gate installed if its concrete structure needed to be rebuilt.
“As we’re getting towards the end of that concrete life cycle it opens up options to put in equipment that better suits our needs,” he said.
Manager asset strategy and en-
GMW crew completes Western
gineering support Shayne Lowe said the business was always looking at innovative ways to reduce costs and drive operational efficiency.
“As we continue to invest in the future of our infrastructure, every improvement we make strengthens the reliability and sustainability of our water delivery network for the communities we serve,” Mr Lowe said.
Vandalism hikes repair bills
VANDALS have been put on no
tice after damage at central Victorian reservoirs.
Goulburn Murray Water said five picnic tables at Laanecoorie’s Frank Chaplin Reserve and a sign at Ankers Causeway heavily graffitied in reports across its region this year.
GMW said it had crews replacing the damaged tables.
“Having to respond to these vandalism incidents is not our core function,” said acting storage manager Adrian Pearse who warned vandals that they risked fines up to $244,212 and 10 years in jail.
Firies target area in next tax protest
DISGRUNTLED CFA volunteers are making central Victoria their next protest point against the State Government’s controversial emergency services tax.
Leaders of several Loddon brigades say they will join the protest in Bendigo on September 14 organised by the CFA Volunteers’ Group.
Local brigades were part of the massive protest in Melbourne in May when thousands descended on State Parliament.
“All ratepayers, be they farmers, business, commercial, residents or renters will now be seeing that in their own rates notice,” volunteers’ group secretary Leigh Harry has told CFA members.
“Add to that is the massive cut to the CFA’s funding ! The Governments own Gazette shows that the CFA’s budget is being actually cut by $41.9 million for 2025-2026, certainly not an increase like the Premier claims.
From the first rally in Melbourne earlier this year, we have now organised rally’s in Warrnambool, Camperdown, Ballarat and Werribee. There is more to be done to continue to pressure the Allan Government into reviewing this unjust tax.”
Loddon ratepayers have received their annual rate notices including the tax councils are forced to collect.
A
Waranga Channel work at Fernihurst
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BOORT District School student
James Hercott is proving that you can finish school and start your career at the same time.
James, who works at Pyramid Hill Tyre and Auto while completing his VCE, is one of 16 students in the Loddon Shire taking part in the Head Start program, delivered locally by the North Central LLEN.
The program gives Year 10–12 students the chance to begin a paid apprenticeship or traineeship while still at school. It’s flexible too, with students starting off with one day a week in the workplace and gradually building up as they move through their studies. Along the way, they gain skills, confidence and a qualification while still earning a fair wage.
James has been actively involved in North Central LLEN programs over the past three years, including work experience at Swan Hill Truck Service, Structured Workplace
Learning placements at Mawsons Cohuna and Pyramid Hill Tyre and Auto, and the Youth Take Over program with Nutrien Ag.
North Central LLEN Head Start co-ordinator Mary-Ann Sait said it’s been inspiring to see students like James embrace the opportunities on offer.
“Meeting the students at the start of their school-based apprenticeship or traineeship and then seeing their growth over the next couple of years is really rewarding,” she said.
“Of course, this would not be possible without the fantastic support of local employers, who share their time and knowledge to guide students as they learn their craft.”
Head Start operates across Victoria and connects students with career planning, training providers, and supportive employers to help them transition successfully from school to work.
James Hercott at work in Pyramid Hill
Wild weather makes sale a a challenge
SHEDDING 160 rams for Friday’s 7th annual on-property ram auctin at Willera Merinos became one of the biggest challenges experienced by stud manager Simon Coutts.
Rams unused to being shedded were put under cover as strong winds and rains buffeted the Loddon Valley last week.
The region recorded more than 30mm of rain for the week, some from a heavy downpour during the auction at Serpentine that stopped auctioneer Nigel Starick taking bids for a few moments.
“I’ve shorn 26,000 sheep in rain and floods and it was harder work this week,” Mr Coutts said.
“We had the rams in and out of the paddock ... we wanted to present them well to potential bidders and I think they came up pretty well.”
Top price of $7750 was paid by the Knight family’s Nyton Park Ag, of Boort.
Alistair Knight said: “We were looking for body size and growth rate and this one was in the top five per cent for eye muscle and top five per cent for weaning. A good all-round ram and fingers crossed will help produce some good wool cutters.”
“We are looking to increase weaning percentages and keeping that soft white wool in the 18.5-20 micron range.”
Mr Coutts said the sale had again attracted strong interest from South Australian and Gippsland buyers with some bidders securing their purchases on the online auction platform.
“Some of our previous buyers returned for the open day inspections and then bought online today,” he said.
Friday’s Willera sale was up on 12 months ago, selling 152 of 160 rams under the hammer compared with 132 of 172 last year.
The average was up almost $300 to $2509.87 with multiple lots selling for between $5000 and $7500.
The sale pace was set when Lot 1 went for $7000 to North Allanvale Farming.
Volume buyers were topped by Tim and Susie Lockhart’s Kilkbirnie Farm that took home nine rams, major Western Victorian stud Ben Nevis (sixc), Langley Farms (eight) and Glenera (eight).
Other local buyers included Deb and Daryl Hancock who this year purchased five rams. They were among regular returning buyers.
9:30
Anna Marcus, Ashlee Tierney (BCG) R Black
Cereal varieties: top performers and ones to watch GRDC NVT
10:30
Disease management: past experience, future technology
BioScout Disease Trials
Dr Grant Hollaway (Astute Ag), Amy McEachern (BCG)
11:30
What’s new in pulses: variety updates & agronomy insights
From patchy starts to harvest: later-season management options
GRDC Long Coleoptile GRDC Canola Establishment
Lucy Giles (BCG), Dr Andrew Fletcher, Dr Greg Rebetzke (CSIRO)
11:30
Disease management: past experience, future technology
BioScout Disease Trials
Dr Grant Hollaway (Astute Ag), Amy McEachern (BCG)
10:30
From paddock to market: cereal hay for dairy and export AgriFutures Oaten Hay Trial
Alison Frischke (BCG), Marcus Crawford (Balco), Matt Glowery (farmer)
11:30
Anna Marcus, Ashlee Tierney (BCG) R
Cereal varieties: top performers and ones to watch GRDC NVT 11:30
Farming without paraquat: a look at group 14s, glufosinate, new chemistry & blue light technology
Chris Preston (University of Adelaide), Angus Butterfield (BCG)
Make more from sheep: realising benefits from sheep eIDs
Alison Frischke, Zoe Wilson (BCG), BreedElite, Joel Donnan (farmer), Cam Nicholson (farmer)
Simon Coutts with Alistair and Richard Knight after their sale-topping purchase. LH PHOTO
The Australian wool market has continued to strengthen, recording a sixth consecutive weekly rise. Being the sixth selling series of the new season, also means the market has continued its run of positive results for the 2025/26 wool selling season. Wet conditions have slowed shearing in many parts of the country, dampening wool receivals. This has played a part in sharp drop in quantity. The benchmark Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) rose by 7 cents on the opening day, then added another 7 on the second. This extended the run of daily EMI rises to ten, adding 53 cents across this run. Twelve months ago, the EMI was 1,087 cents, the 14 cents added across this series pushed the EMI to 1,261 cents. This is a 174 cent or 16.0% twelve-month increase. In further welcome news, the rises were not entirely driven by currency. The EMI also rose in USD terms, more in fact (in percentage terms), gaining 14 cents for the series, closing at 818 cents. The crossbreds have been the strongest performing sector over the previous few months and continued their upward trend. The standout has been 28-micron range. In the South twelve months ago, the 28.0 MPG was 375 cents, the 11cents gained this week pushed the MPG to 528 cents. This is a 153-cent yearly rise, an increase of 40.8%. The next best is the 30.0 MPG, closing at 450 cents after a weekly increase, this is a 112-cent gain, an increase of 24.9%.
In the merinos, it is the 21.0 MPG which has had the strongest 12 months, posting a 219 cent, 17.5% rise. In contrast, the weakest performing MPG was 17.0 micron, adding 114 cents or 7.0% in the previous 12 months.
There is currently expected to be national offering of 29,743 bales this week.
Source: AWEX
Adam Millard | Wool | 0400 499 064
Elders Bendigo | 03 5445 6333
Craig Sharam | Branch Manager/Senior
Agronomist | 0408 188 351
Anton Mannes | Agronomist | 0499 708 044
Nigel Starick | Livestock Manager | 0408 528 322
Chris Anderson Territory Sales Manager | 0408 921 540
Glenn Jackson | Merchandise Manager | 0429 076 459
Tips on hay, grain storage
MORE than 60 farmers from across the Loddon on Friday attended a workshop to hear specialists give advice on grain and hay storage.
Bridgewater Farmware organised the workshop that owner Dave Edwards said was aimed to help primary producers increase they net return on production.
Dave is pictured (above, second right) with Shane Bowen, Nick Collins, Jay Bowen and Tom Brown after hearing a talk from Hay Australia’s Mick Stone (right).
Grain specialist Brad Knight is pictured (below) with Megan Broadbent, Sue Coghlan and Matt Edwards.
KERRILYN MERINO/POLL MERINO STUD
Sheep & Wool Show
LAMB supply remained similar at just over 10,000 head at Bendigo on Monday.
Of this around 3000 were new season lambs.
The market was dearer, particularly for any young lambs which displayed weight and finish and there was a new market record of $400/head for unshorn stock.
It came as competition was more animated from processors for any quality trade and heavy lambs, and the best grades of old season crossbred and Merino lambs all recorded stronger price averages compared to a week ago.
However the broad price band for most of the old season lambs remained similar to what the industry has been witnessing at 1000 to 1200c/kg cwt.
The lead pens of heavy new season lambs averaged over 1200c/kg and were the market highlight.
Restocker activity has started to increase following more rain and pastures developing into spring, and feeders paid to $240 for young trade sized lambs to grow on.
The new high of $400/head for new season lambs was for a pen of 62 head off irrigated lucerne from the Rochester district and estimated at 32kg cwt. Most of the lead pens of new season lambs were in the 26-30kg cwt range and sold from $306 to $380/head; followed by the heavy trades at
$266 to $366/head – all these categories recording averages over 1200c/kg cwt.
Bidding did pull-back fairly quickly on young lambs with less weight and carcass finish at $190 to $245/head, these types estimated at 1000c to 1150c/kg cwt.
Restockers paid to $190 to $240/ head for young lambs with frame size to feed on, and from $102 to $180/head for smaller types.
Included in the new season run was several pens of unshorn Merinos, the freshest trades to $244/ head; MK style young Merino lambs $148 to $169/head.
It was a better quality yarding of old season lambs. Export lambs to $400, most heavy lambs from $330 to $380/head.
Domestic buyers did lock horns on a couple of pens of neat shorn tradeweight lambs which sold to $332 to hit an estimated 1300c/ kg cwt again. But the general run of trade and heavy trades from $240 to $330/head at 1050c to 1180c/kg for most. Merino lambs off grain sold from $240 to $271 and trended in the 900c and 1000c/kg price brackets. Decent MK processing lambs $130 to $190/head.
Sheep numbers dipped back to 5100 head, but it was a better yarding with more weight and condition available to buyers.
The price trend was firm to dearer, although the broad range for mutton remained similar to recent sales at 650c to 750c/kg
cwt – the main lines of Merino sheep generally holding rates above 700c/kg cwt. Heavy crossbred ewes $200 to $265/head; lead Merino ewes $214 to a top of $272/head; heavy shorn Merino wethers to $260/head; general run of leaner sheep $150 to $210/ head; lighest ewes $110 to $145/ head.
EXOTIC LAMBS
Yarra Downs Pastoral Myall (104) $328.
SUCKER LAMBS
A & C Branson Colbinabbin (62) $400. Sandy Ridge Kerang (34) $365. GJ & GM Bremner Quambatook (35) $360. WW & RG Farming Macorna (106) $350. GE & MB & JA Ryan Mathoura (72) $338. CJ & HA Glenn Mathoura (129) $336. TC & KM Campbell Macorna (59) $306. SN & DA Collins Bridgewater North (25) $304. Ben Collins Bridgewater North (6) $304. TS & GG O’Neil Boort (34) $288. WL & PJ Johnson Myola East (12) $253. Auldist Ag
Hay (182) $234. CJ Forbes & Sons Eddington (109) $230.
CROSSBRED LAMBS
S & B Zagame Buckrabanyule (37) $400. RA & DJ Johnston Boort (29) $390. Benarca Park Pastoral Womboota (22) $379. AJ Wilson Boort (18) $365. GE & MB & JA Ryan Mathoura (44) $365. Craig McRae Cohuna (12) $360. WH Bacon Echuca West (7) $359. DI & CL Palmer Bamawm (43) $338. D Kronk Shelbourne (20) $332. Ram J Eppalock (19) $330. D & K Teskera Roslynmead (5) $295. DJ & RJ Cullen Pompapiel (72) $290. GF & CM Rathjen Colbinabbin (44) $289. Eromunga Trust Moulamein (74) $288. DW Francis Lockington (13) $285. AD & JL Lock Fiery Flat (11) $270.
MERINO LAMBS
SN & DA Collins Bridgewater North (15)
$254. AR & JM Wiltshire Prairie (55) $240.
NG & M Sutherland Kerang (45) $238. DM & KP Barker Nullawil (98) $228. MW & MA Crapper Raywood (3) $227. Eromunga Trust Moulamein (74) $227. Sheridan Family Trust Donald (26) $211.
MERINO WETHERS
Fairfields at Mysia Mysia (103) $241.
CROSSBRED EWES
ALB & R McIntosh Wanalta (92) $265. Patrick Flanagan Coimadai (5) $255. Naturi Farms Arcadia (46) $250. C Weeks Serpentine (22) $230. Little Haven Bunbartha (32) $230. D & DH Scott Bunnaloo (33) $227. D Graham Moama (47) $212. AD & JL Lock Fiery Flat (3) $186. G Moore Swan Hill (5) $186. MERINO EWES Sohnic Hose Swanwater (166)
Look at paraquat-free future
WITH paraquat under review by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, farmers across north-west Victoria face uncertainty about the future of one of their most relied-upon weed control tools. What happens to weed management if paraquat use is restricted or banned?
This critical question will be addressed at the Birchip Cropping Group Main Field Day next
Bendigo Sheep & Lamb Market Report
Sheep and lambs both sold to dearer trends. Trade and heavy suckers were up to $10-15 dearer.
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
Wednesday when Angus Butterfield (BCG) and Professor Chris Preston (University of Adelaide) will present the session Farming without paraquat: A look at Group 14s, glufosinate and new technologies. Paraquat has been a cornerstone in no-till systems, helping growers control hard-to-kill weeds and manage glyphosate resistance. Its potential loss would represent a major shift
for Australian farming systems. Angus and Chris will guide growers through what a paraquat-free future could look like, backed.
“This session is about preparing growers for change,” Angus said. “There’s no single replacement for paraquat, but there are ways we can adapt. Our job is to give farmers the knowledge to make confident decisions if restrictions come into play.”
Imagine life in a log cabin
STARTS: Thursday, 4th September 2025 @ 11am and closes Tuesday, 9th September 2025 at 7pm.
Bidding on Nasco website: https://nasco.bidsonline.com.au/ catalogue-group.aspx?chid=545&BID=
For auction enquiries or to make inspection appointment please contact: Brett Douglas: 0447 162 455 / brett@driscollag.com.au
Put stop to being poorly treated
Burden on country communities grows alarmingly, writes Gaelle Broad
REGIONAL Victorians are proud, resilient and community-minded. We work hard, look out for each other, and contribute enormously to the state’s economy.
But right now, our communities are being treated as secondclass citizens by a Melbournecentric Labor Government.
Over recent months, the list of burdens placed on country communities has grown alarmingly.
The new VicGrid Bill is just the latest example. Under this legislation, farmers can be fined for refusing access to their own properties for transmission projects. This is an outrageous attack on property rights and a slap in the face to the people who grow our food, fibre and fuel. It’s clear that instead of working with landholders, Labor would rather strong-arm them.
From July 1, Labor also introduced its new Emergency Services Levy, hitting household and business budgets already under stress. While no one disputes the importance of funding our emergency services, slugging families and small businesses with yet another tax during a cost-of-living crisis is the wrong approach. Regional Victorians are already paying more than our fair share, and we should not be treated as Labor’s cash cow.
Meanwhile, state debt is spiralling out of control. Victoria now owes more than any other state in Australia, with debt forecast to hit record highs of over $194 billion by 2029. The interest payments alone will cost Victorians $1.2 million every hour.
Every dollar wasted on cost blowouts and poorly managed city projects is a dollar that’s not
YOUR ONLINE WORDS
MACORNA CONFIRMS MOVE TO LODDON VALLEY FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
Anne Maree Fiscalini Hansen wrote: Just Googled “where is Macorna” and it’s just past Pyramid Hill. It has a population of 67. Was founding member of Kerang districts 1946 and has been in several leagues since then. Good
being spent on fixing our roads, funding regional hospitals, or improving local schools.
In the energy sector, more than 1180 gas customers across 10 towns have been told their supply will be cut off by the end of next year. That’s 1150 households and 34 small businesses facing the uncertainty and cost of finding alternative energy sources.
Labor’s anti-gas agenda will hit regional communities hardest, driving up costs and limiting choice.
Community safety is another growing concern.
The most recent figures from the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) show that total offences have risen 24 per cent in the Loddon Shire in the 12 months to March 2025, while stealing from a motor vehicle is up 157 per cent.
Farm crime is on the rise, with recent reports of livestock theft leaving farmers out of pocket and feeling unsafe.
At the same time, Victoria is currently short around 1,100 police officers, with many rural stations struggling to fill rosters. This means slower response times and less visible policing in country areas.
The Liberals and Nationals are committed to turning this around with initiatives like our Break Bail, Face Jail policy — making it clear that if you break bail, you go straight to jail. This will send a strong message to repeat offenders and help restore confidence in the justice system.
Our roads are also in a shocking state. Across regional Victoria, potholes and crumbling surfaces have become the norm, not the exception. Poor maintenance
on them for moving leagues and not giving up their passion for footy. Welcome to the LVFNL
Eva McLean wrote: The league just got more interesting with the addition of Macorna. Good luck to the team!
Joshua Bode wrote: Great news . The Central Rivers Board could not have stuffed up this transition more
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
is costing motorists in tyre and suspension repairs, increasing accident risks, and slowing down the movement of goods and services. While Labor pours billions into Melbourne infrastructure, our regional road network is literally falling apart.
Then there’s drought support. Farmers and regional businesses expected genuine help during difficult seasons, but what Labor delivered was poorly thought out and disconnected from the reality of life on the land, including fodder and transport..
The Victorian Liberals and Nationals have a different vision.
If elected next year, we will:
Protect farmers’ property rights and scrap Labor’s heavyhanded VicGrid access laws.
Abolish Labor’s new Emergency Services Levy and fund emergency services properly without new taxes.
Scrap other taxes including the GP Health tax; Air BnB tax; schools tax; and stamp duty on homes up to $1 million for first home buyers.
Legislate a Charter of Budget Honesty and audit the books.
Crack down on crime by delivering Break Bail, Face Jail. Regional Victoria is the engine room of our state — we grow the food, provide the energy and underpin the economy. We deserve respect, fair treatment and policies that work for us, not just for Melbourne.
It’s time to put the regions back at the heart of decision-making in Victoria. The Liberals and Nationals will do just that.
Gaelle Broad is a member for Northern Victoria Region
1. Which two colours mix to make purple?
2. Campbells is known for making what food?
3. The plastic or metal tip at the end of a shoelace is called what?
4. Au is the chemical symbol for which element?
5. Where would you find an ISBN number?
6. And what does ISBN stand for?
7. Spinach is high in which mineral?
8. An elephant’s tusk is made of which material?
9. What has a head, a tail, but no body?
10. A ram is a male what?
11. What sport did David Beckham play?
12. Rigatoni is what type of food?
13. In the movie ‘The Matrix’ Neo
BRADLEY of Boort must be looking for a tonic to take him into spring if his latest Treemendous Sign is any indication. OTF really does want Bradley in all his positive glory.
Pif they tried. Great to see the Tigers find a new home .
Butch Saunders wrote: Smart move Macorna, other options weren’t much chop.
Di Wren wrote: Wishing Macorna all the best for their decision to join the Loddon Valley League.
From the Loddon Herald facebook page
BUSHY TALES BY IAN JONES
ERHAPS we can start by suggesting a trip to Britain where one of the big chain stores Marks and Spencer (Marks and Sparks to those who know) have for the first time added the great Australian sweet treat, the lamington, to its inventory of enticing goodies. “Try the Aussieinspired sweet treat that everyone’s talking about. Our Chocolate and Coconut Lamingtons feature fluffy sponge enrobed in luscious chocolate sauce, coated in coconut shavings, crowned with smooth vanilla buttercream and finished with a dollop of tangy raspberry jam. Irresistible,” goes its sales pitch.
chooses between pills of which two colours?
14. What does ‘furphy’ mean in Australian slang?
15. Baku is the capital city of which country?
16. Which flying bird has the largest wingspan?
17. The letter X represents which number in Roman numerals?
18. Which planet is 7th from the sun?
19. London taxis are what colour?
20. The ‘Spitfire’ is a model of which type of vehicle?
DID you know? This year marks 100 years of the rice growing industry in Australia. They dished up celebrations the other week in the New South Wales town of Leeton. Would Bradley have ordered short or long grain?
AND on the subject of grains, Corn Flakes have been vying with toast and Vegemite for breakfast table favouritism in Austalia for 101 years.
I F ALL the food talk fails to make Bradley positive, he could have a few quiet moments playing patience, or solitaire. History is blurred on the solo card game - is it 12th century China or Japan, Europe and Scandinavia in the early 1700s or, according to the Yanks, when they “invented” the game in the 19th century? Answers will surely test the patience of Bradley and his loyal followers.
In parcels of comfort
By KEN ARNOLD
ON THE railway line between Mitiamo and Pyramid Hill near the Bullock Creek, a crumbling school building marks the town of Mologa.
The town, 13km out of Pyramid Hill was once home to almost 400 people in 1911. It had its own tennis association, football association, railway station, two schools and multiple churches. However it is now home to only 20 people and remnants of old buildings.
Sixty years ago, the old creamery and butter factory still stood, along with a hall, an old store, a church and a school. Instead of buildings these locations are marked with plaques to remember what was lost to time.
Despite being a small town, the Mologa branch of the Red Cross Society was actively involved in providing relief during World War One and Two.
They despatched 40 flannel shirts, 10 triangular bandages, eight pillow slips, three scarves, six knitted face washers, 10 towels, four bars of soap, a bag, seven bandages, a cushion, a large tin of biscuits, five tins of cocoa, a tin of Benger’s food and a parcel of books and magazines to the central depot in April 1916. This was followed by a similar parcel in June.
On July 17, 1916, The Rev. Hedley Plumtree delivered a lecture on the European War, illustrated by lantern slides, in aid of the Red Cross Fund, in the Mologa Hall. Admission to the lecture was by silver coin which had good attendance.
The barn was the scene of a euchre party followed by supper and dancing in
aid of the Prisoners of War Fund in October 1917.
As the weather was inclement and the roads in poor state the attendance was small however the following day the station was a colourful scene it being decorated with flags, bunting and greenery to welcome Private Charlie Fyfee back from the war he having been wounded in a bombing raid the previous November.
In March 1918 the townspeople despatched another box to the central depot of the local Red Cross branch which contained the following: 7 lbs. tea. four bags
oatmeal. 12 packets jelly crystals, six packets cornflour, six packets arrowroot, six tins cocoa, six tins coffee, four sheets, 36 handkerchiefs, two pairs socks. four scarves, 12 kitchen towels and six toilet towels.
The Pyramid Hill Advertiser reported on December 6, 1918, that the residents of Mologa gathered for a picnic in the corner of a nicely shaded and grassy paddock on the Pickles farm to discuss raising funds for a suitable memorial to the local soldiers to recognise their valour and to keep in memory of those who gave of their life.
As a result, an impressive memorial was unveiled by Mrs. Marlow on March 24, 1921.
Mrs Marlow had five sons volunteer for the war effort, they were a part of the twenty young men from Mologa who were farewelled from the railway station.
Only half the men returned, included in the ten men who did not return were three of Mrs Marlow’s sons.
The Mologa branch of the Red Cross was still active in November 1940.
In recent years Mologa was often identified by the haybale art along the highway. Around 2019 the first three of ten hay bale soldiers in memory of the ten men who did not return were put in place at the corner of the Bendigo-Pyramid Road and Mologa road.
The soldiers were well painted, each having a turned-up sheet of iron for the brim of the hat. Unfortunately, this artwork was unable to withstand long term exposure and has been taken down.
The honour rolls for the Mologa schools and St Luke’s Church of England can be seen at the Pyramid Hill RSL Hall, McKay Street, Pyramid Hill
Mologa can be visited by travelling to Mitiamo passing through that small township on past the local golf club and through Terrick Terrick forest.
Then you come to the Mologa - Echuca road, turn left and travel down past the old school which has collapsed, or failing that take the Bendigo - Pyramid Hill road turning right into the gravel Mologa Echuca road.
It’s worth to drive to discover more of our local history.
DEATH NOTICE
NOLAN, Michael James (Jim)
03 Jan 1937 – 31 Aug 2025
Devoted husband of Aileen (dec).
Cherished father of Michael, Sue, Simon (dec) and Jeremy.
Treasured grandparent to his 9 grandchildren.
Much loved by all of his siblings, nieces and nephews, and always entertaining at family gatherings.
Worked hard and played hard, Jim certainly lived life to the full!
Will be missed dearly and is now with God.
Funeral to be held at St Patrick’s Catholic Church Boort, 11:00am Tuesday 9 September.
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
MEETING
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
Careers at Loddon
Loddon Shire Council is seeking applications for the following positions from highly motivated, enthusiastic, energetic and outcome focused individuals who want to make a di erence and help shape our future.
Visitor Information Centre Administration O cer
Part-time, permanent position
An attractive hourly rate of $39.14$42.45
Based at our Wedderburn Information Centre Applications for the position above will close on Monday 15 September 2025 at 5pm.
Customer Service O cer
Fixed-term, part-time role for 2 days a week (Monday and Tuesday, 9am–3pm), to 23 December 2025
An attractive hourly rate of $34.33$36.72
Based at our Wedderburn O ce Applications for the position above will close on Monday 8 September 2025 at 5pm.
Manager Financial Services
Loddon Shire Council – Wedderburn Shape the nancial future of a proud regional community. Lead budgeting, reporting, compliance, and strategic planning, while guiding a capable team to deliver excellence in governance and service.
We’re seeking a strategic leader with strong nancial expertise, proven people skills, and a commitment to integrity. Join a values-driven Council making a real di erence in the Loddon region.
Applications for this position will be considered as they are received- Apply early
Early Childhood Educator
Casual position
An attractive hourly rate of $33.96
Work across one, some or all of Council’s ve sessional kindergartens
Maternal and Child Health Nurse
·Casual position
An attractive hourly rate of $73.15$78.84
Based at our Wedderburn O ce with carpooling services available between Marong and Wedderburn Applications for the positions above will be considered as they are received
For further information, including a detailed position description and details on how to apply, please visit Council’s website www.loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s OrganisationDevelopment Unit on (03) 5494 1200.
LODDON VALLEY FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE GALA DINNER
Netball legend Helen Ward congratulates Mitiamo’s Amelia Ludeman on her Helen Ward Medal for A Grade best and fairest. LH PHOTOS
2025 Rising Stars - Calivil’s Ava Maxted (netball) and Pyramid Hill’s Harrison Goodes (football)
Under 17 leading goalkicker MItchell Pickering (Inglewood)
Winner of the Stephen Dowling Medal for under 17 best and fairest Riley Doorty (Marong) and runner-up Tyler Rasmussen (East Loddon Rams)
Under 17 netball best and fairest Elodie Sharman (Calivil)
Runners-up Grace Wild (Maiden Gully) and Ruby Cullen (Calivil)
Under 15 netball best and fairest Cecily Farrar (Pyramid Hill)
Winners of the John Forbes Medal for reserves best and fairest Cooper Hale (Marong) and runner-up Evan Ritchie (Calivil)
A Reserve best and fairest Natalie Flood (Bridgewater) with Joy Lawry and runner-up Laurel Prowse (Marong)
Semis come down to shoot outs
NORTH Central Hockey Association’s second semi-final was played at Boort on Saturday,
And the crowd was treated to a full day of high-intensity hockey as the top two teams of each grade went head to head in hopes of earning that Grand Final slot.
The men’s semi-final was billed as the game of the day, and it lived up to expectations. From the first whistle the intensity was fierce, with crunching tackles, vocal support from the crowd, and the umpires busy keeping tempers in check.
Calder struck first late in the opening quarter when Marcus Williamson pounced on a rebound from a short corner to make it 1-0.
The second quarter was fiery, with multiple green cards and even a yellow cards coming out saw both teams playing short on players for extended periods. Amid the chaos, St Arnaud equalised through Ben Greenaway, who converted from a short corner to square it up at 1-1 before halftime.
The pace didn’t drop in the second half. Calder pressed hard through repeated corners, only to be denied by St Arnaud keeper
Sam Cook and defenders throwing themselves into the fray.
At the other end, Thomas Watts and Ben Greenaway threatened to break the deadlock, but Calder’s Jacob Moresi and Nick Rowley held the defensive line repelling attack after attack.
With no further scores coming before full time the match was set to go to shoot outs in a mirror of the women’s game before it with Calder and St Arnaud once again lining up.
Joe Watts opened for St Arnaud with a goal, before Paddy Eccles replied for Calder. Ben Greenaway then found the net before Calder’s Max Rowley bringing it back to level after the first round of shoot outs. With the scores locked at 3-3 sudden death shoot outs were the only way to resolve a winner. Max Rowley having already scored in the first stage of the shoot out was selected to step up first in sudden death for Calder.
A calm but powerful flick by Max Rowley past keeper Sam Cook saw hope for Calder. Saints Ed Parry tried to work his way around keeper Will Ison but no clean opportunity appeared. As the eight seconds was up and no
score coming from the Saints, Calder players swarmed keeper Will Ison erupting in celebration with a 4-3 win seeing them chasing a grand final dream.
The underage semi was a hard-fought contest from start to finish. Charlton began brightly, pushing into attack and forcing Saints’ keeper into early saves. A short corner chance was denied, but minutes later Amali Fitzpat-
Lanyon prevails in final stroke event of season
THE last stroke event of the year was played at Boort on Saturday and had a good turnout of eight players despite the windy and trying conditions.
Taking part in the four-ball knockout final, Tim Lanyon posted the best score of the day with his nett 74. Damian Lanyon was only one behind on 75, with 4ball partners Stuart Tweddle and Peter Eicher next on 77, with the latter claiming the last ball on countback.
Nearest the pin prizes were shared around this week, with Tim, Stuart, Damian, Joe and Andrew taking out one each.
In the four-ball knockout final, Tim and Natham prevailed 2 and 1 over a determined Stuart and Peter, while Tim also played singles knockout final with Damien, which ended up all square.
However, Damien’s bogey 4 up the 19th hole was good enough to take the win.
This Saturday will be the last stableford event of the year, with a family day and 9-hole competition planned for our closing day and presentations on September 14.
Due to several players taking part in the Victorian Sandgreen Championships at
Charlton, only a small field of six battled it out in the stableford event on August 23.
Enjoying another great score, Natham Wright blitzed the competition with 42 points to finish 10 clear of three others.
With only two balls up for grabs though, it was Peter Eicher who missed out in the countback as Robert Johnston and Joe Kane claimed prizes in the ball pool. In the nearest the pins, Gaye Sim and Kevin Linehand took out two each, while Robert Johnston was the best on the 15th.
Mitiamo
Mitiamo’s stableford A Grade winner last weekend was Simon Ray on 34, Brad Duncan was close behind with 32.
In B Grade Terry Dzufer took out top spot on 34, while Rod Ellis was runner- up on 30. The nearest the pin second shot on hole seven was Adam Gould.
In the Knockout Grand Final, Simon Ray took it out on the 14th hole with Adam Gould taking runner up. This weekend’s event is the Burke and Wills Round, where the course will be played backwards.
Club makes start on second rink
WORK has started on reinstatement of the front rink at Bridgewater Bowling Club. President Glenn Catto said the project would be completed in coming months with a second rink needed to accommodate a growing membership and use by pennant and social bowlers. The club is again entering teams in the both the Bendigo and Goldfields playing
area pennant season which starts in early October.
Meanwhile, the North Central playing area mid-week pennant will start on October 7. Saturday pennant starts on October 11 with Boort travelling to St Arnaud Country while Wedderburn also has a road trip for the opening with matches in both divisions against Charlton.
rick drove a ball across the D for Ruby Wright to finish cleanly and put Charlton ahead going into halftime.
Saints lifted after halftime, Samuel Greenaway carrying strongly up the left wing to test the defence, but Charlton’s backline stood tall.
Multiple short corners were earned by Charlton, including one where Murphy Fitzpatrick’s
flick over grounded keeper Forbes Kirk had finally slipped past only to be stopped on the line by Saints’ defender Isabella Bigmore who cleared it brilliantly off the line. Forbes’ relentless defence kept Saints dreams alive but with no goals coming the early damage had been done. Charlton managed to hold their slender lead and book their spot in the grand final with a 1-0 win.
BOORT’S Blake Slatter (middle front) was selected in North Central Hockey Association’s men’s team of the year announced at Monday’s presentation dinner. Award winners - Underage best and fairest boys Murphy Fitzpatrick (Charlton). Girls: Amali Fitzpatrick (Charlton). Women: Brylea Knight (St Arnaud). Runner-up: Elise Fitzpatrick (Charlton). Men: Lincoln Westerland (Donald). Runner-up: Jacob Moresi (Calder United). Junior Goalkeeper of the Year: Millie Pink (Boort). Trainee Umpire of the Year: Emily Henderson (Boort). Junior NCHA Champion: Frances McClelland (Birchip Watchem). Senior: Candece Jay (Donald).
SENIORS
PRELIMINARY FINALS
Marong 7.5 10.7 12.10 16.13 (109)
Inglewood 1.1 6.6 6.10 6.12 (48)
GOALS – Marong: K. Robins, L. Lee 3, R. Taylor, S. Knott, K. Manley 2, J. Gadsden, M. Bradbury, N. Devanny, B. Gregg. Inglewood: L. Harris 2, K. Payne, J. Leach, L. Marciano, D. Polack.
BEST – Marong: L. Lee, S. Geary, K. Manley, M. Bradbury, T. Davies, L. Frankel. Inglewood: H. Veitch, G. Nevins, J. Hood, J. Whittle, T. Hywood, T. Kennedy.
RESERVES
GOALS – Bridgewater: A. Pollock 2, M. Brooks, D. Maher, J. Campbell, B. Holt. BL Serpentine: J. Podosky 3, J. Gladman, D. Poulter.
BEST – Bridgewater: J. Naughton, T. Naughton, M. Baker, J. Bowen, D. Maher, A. Pollock. BL Serpentine: D. Poulter, O. Downing, K. Paxton, T. Clarke, J. Podosky, T. Hawker.
UNDER 18
Marong
Inglewood
boy 2, B. Edwards, M. Buchanan. Calder United: D. Pearce 4, M. Farmer 3, Z. Keighran, M. Wade, J. Marlais.
BEST – Birchip Watchem: B. Lakin, C. Frank, M. Rippon, A. Dean, T. Gibson, J. Christie. Calder United: D. Watts, C. Fawcett, O. Madden, Z. Keighran, M. Trzeciak, M. Wade.
RESERVES
Calder United
(60)
(48)
GOALS – Marong: C. Dudderidge 3, R. McNamara 2, J. Gribble, C. Murphy, R. Kleehammer, W. Thomson. Inglewood: T. Murphy, K. McClellan, R. Smith, R. Murphy, M. Pickering.
BEST – Marong: W. Thomson, H. Roberts, R. McNamara, C. Dudderidge, L. Henson, R. Hayden. Inglewood: H. Noble, W. Schepers, E. McCoy, T. Murphy, J. Penrose, M. Lonza.
NORTH CENTRAL
SECOND SEMI-FINALS SENIORS
Birchip Watchem
GOALS – Birchip Watchem: T. Gibson, L. Foott, R. Con-
(58)
(33)
GOALS – Calder United: H. Senior 2, T. Vearing, B. Barker, D. Kelly, C. Green, J. Ison, H. Connolly. Boort: J. Mulquiny, J. Baker, M. Coleman, H. Weaver, P. O’Rourke.
BEST – Calder United: J. Morrison, J. Turner, S. Kelly, B. Forrester, T. Vearing, J. Ison. Boort: J. Baker, C. Ross, F. Millar, A. Trethowan, S. Toose, D. Hatcher.
UNDER 17
– St Arnaud: S. Bridgeman, A. Lowe, J. Batters, A. Wickham, F. Wilson, F. Burke. Sea Lake Nandaly: N. McClelland, J. Durie, A. Renney, H. Warne, B. Allan, J. Cox.
UNDER 14
– St Arnaud: P. Zsigmond, C. Hendy, J. James, D. Kirk, A. Reyne. Sea Lake Nandaly: H. Cox, R. Allan, F. Austerberry, H. Wight, H. Landry, J. Hodgson.
PRELIMINARY FINALS
PRELIMINARY FINALS
| 2:30PM
BIRCHIP-WATCHEM V SEA LAKE NANDALY
| 12:35PM
1 'S | 10:55
BOORT V BIRCHIP-WATCHEM ST ARNAUD V BOORT SEA LAKE NANDALY V BOORT
BOORT V SEA LAKE NANDALY CALDER UNITED V BIRCHIP-WATCHEM WEDDERBURN V BOORT SEA LAKE NANDALY V CALDER UNITED
BIRCHIP-WATCHEM V BOORT
BIRCHIP-WATCHEM V DONALD
V BIRCHIP-WATCHEM
ARNAUD V DONALD CALDER UNITED V WEDDERBURN
ARNAUD V DONALD
BIRCHIP-WATCHEM V CHARLTON
BOORT reserves get a second chance at St Arnaud on Saturday to have a shot at North Central Football honours.
The Pies went down to Calder United at Boort in last Saturday’s second semi-final.
Boort kept pace with the Lions for the first half before Calder edged away in windy conditions.
Jack Baker and ruckman Cam Ross were among the best for Boort.
Boort will now play Birchip Watchem in Saturday’s preliminary final at St Arnaud while the under 17s take on St Arnaud who went down in a thriller second semi-final against Sea Lake Nandaly. In the seniors preliminary fnal, it will
be the previously undefeated Birchip Watchem trying the long way the grand final.
The Bulls were blown off Boort Park in the opening quarter of last Saturday’s preliminary final.
The Lions kicked five straight goals in the first term and held Birchip to two behinds.
While the Bulls staged a comeback in the second half, including holding Calder to two behinds in the final term, they lowered colours to the tune of 11 points.
For Calder, formed with the merger of Wycheproof Narraport with Nullawil, they now take on flag favouritism.
Boort’s Jacob Muilqiny cops a bump in the reserves final against Calder United.
LH PHOTO
Still shaking: challenge is on
A “STILL shaking” Wedderburn coach Susie Lockhart has heaped praise on Boort’s A Grade netballers after last Saturday’s nail-biting second semi-final.
The unbeaten Redbacks got home by a goal, relying on a dominant 15-9 third quarter to sneak over the line and move into the grand final.
The Magpies must regroup against Sea Lake Nandaly in the preliminary final to earn another crack at Wedderburn.
Boort led at half-time and made a dramatic run in the last quarter with the match’s last five goals after Wedderburn got out to a six-goal lead.
“Credit where credit is due,” Lockhart said.
“They played so well, took our space away, and made us do things we normally don’t do.”
She said her team needed to ensure it was switched on from the start.
“We have got to go back and really talk about how we entered the game, not expecting them to come out so strongly.”
Another week off for the Redbacks means just one match in three weeks.
“We’ve got to work through this,” Lockhart said.
“We’d probably prefer to play again, but you want to get to a grand final – we’re pretty happy to be there.”
Boort coach Carly Isaac had the ball when time ran out.
“I thought it was a draw at the time, so I wasn’t in the biggest hurry.
“I wasted a bit of time there,” she lamented.
However, Isaac admitted that she was content to front up again on Saturday rather than missing another week.
“We didn’t really need to win, and we finished the game how we wanted to finish with the last five goals.”
Sophie Perryman and Georgia Haw were Boort’s best along with shooter Steph Wilson, who had one of her best games for the season after returning from having a baby, Isaac said.
The match lived up to expectations, played at a furious pace that produced plenty of turnovers. At quarter time, the scores were locked away at 11 apiece, with neither side able to gain an edge.
The second term remained tightly contested. The Redbacks made positional changes in search of momentum, but it was Boort who edged ahead to take
a slender one-goal lead into the main break.
As the physicality lifted in the third quarter, Wedderburn made further adjustments that proved effective. They capitalised on their opportunities and built the biggest lead of the game, five goals, heading into three-quarter time.
Boort responded strongly in the final term, with midcourt changes sparking a surge that brougt them back within one goal. An injury forced a late reshuffle that initially unsettled the Magpies, but they regained composure to challenge in the dying minutes. In the end, Wedderburn held firm to claim a thrilling onegoal victory.
The Redbacks stamped their authority early in the B Grade clash with Calder United, moving the ball fluently in attack and finishing with accuracy.
Their defensive unit applied relentless pressure, forcing Calder United to work hard for every score while also claiming clean intercepts.
The Lions tested a number of combinations throughout the match in search of momentum, but were unable to match Wedderburn’s consistency across the court. The Redbacks claimed every quarter and ran out convincing winners.
Wedderburn was also up against Calder United in the C Grade semi-final and settled quickly into the match, scoring early and taking a strong 9–2
lead before Calder United found their rhythm. Calder responded well, closing the gap to just two goals by quarter time.
The second quarter was dominated by Calder, who connected strongly through the court and capitalised on opportunities to swing the momentum in their favour. By half time, they had taken control, leading 30–23.
The third quarter proved evenly matched, with both sides working hard to maintain possession and apply pressure.
In the final term, Calder United built on their attacking connections, with their goalers rotating effectively and rewarding the team’s hard work. Calder steadied and extended their lead, running out comfortable winners.
Boort booked a spot in the C Reserve grand final despite Sea Lake Nandaly starting the match positively, forcing numerous turnovers and converting accurately in the goal circle.
However, Boort gained composure, and through patience with ball movement, they were able to work their way back into the contest to trail by just one goal at quarter time.
Boort continued their disciplined play in the second quarter, capitalising on opportunities and stretching the margin to five goals by the main break.
Midway through the third quarter, positional changes helped the Tiger’s attacking end settle, and their defensive pressure was rewarded with turnovers that were
Boort’s Sophie Perryman was among the Pies’ best in a spirited second semi-final
LODDON VALLEY
converted to goals. The margin was reduced to only three by three-quarter time, setting up a tight final term.
In the last quarter, Boort regained control, lifting their intensity and applying scoreboard pressure to extend their lead.
Despite Sea Lake Nandaly’s persistence, Boort steadied to take a well-earned victory.
In the under 14 A match, both Boort and Birchip Watchem started strongly, with each converting their first centre pass.
Boort made the most of their height advantage in the goal circle to take a narrow two-goal lead into quarter time. BirchipWatchem opened the second quarter positively, regaining a centre pass early.
Precision passing from both sides allowed for flowing netball, while defensive units continued to read the play well and restrict scoring opportunities. At half time, Boort maintained their two-goal advantage.
In the third quarter, Birchip Watchem’s defenders provided numerous opportunities, and their shooters capitalised when given the chance. However, Boort’s circle defence was a formidable force. At the other end, Boort’s shooters remained consistent, extending the lead to five goals at three-quarter time.
With nothing to lose, BirchipWatchem made several positional changes entering the final quarter, which proved effective before Boort steadied,
NORTH CENTRAL
Third quarter surge makes for stressful final minutes
MITIAMO had an almighty shock against unfancied Bridgewater, but the Superoos scraped through by two goals to Loddon Valley’s A Grade netball grand final and another meeting with Pyramid Hill. Unbeaten just two weeks ago, Miti’s hopes of defending its premiership were on the line as Bridgey surged in the third quarter of their clash at Calivil.
The Superoos led 15-9 at quarter time and by six goals at the main break, but Bridgewater’s14 goals to nine in the third quarter turned the contest on its head.
With a huge contingent of fans roaring them on – including many senior and reserves footballers preparing for next Satur-
day’s grand final – Bridgey drew level with the Superoos just before the final change.
Mitiamo players were being pressured into making unfamiliar errors as Bridgewater’s confidence grew after trailing by six goals at half-time.
It was goal for goal in the last quarter, but Miti steadied when it had to, sealing a pulsating twogoal win with a 12-11 final term.
Superoos coach Abbey Battersby admitted that “the last few minutes were a bit stressful.
“I think we had moments where we let the other side come back into the game.
“But credit to Bridgewater, they came back really hard.”
Bridgewater coach Caz Wood believed her side would have won if not for a few basic errors.
“I’m still crying,” she said, having decided to hand over the coaching role next season and to move down to a lower grade as a player.
“It’s heartbreaking because it was my last chance to get that A Grade flag, but I’m so proud of our never-say-die attitude.
“And I take my hat off to Mitiamo, they’ve come through a hard couple of weeks.”
Wood said Bridgey goaler Lou Dupuy’s effort in returning after six weeks on the sidelines with a fractured hand and just one training session was extraordinary.
Her return allowed Carly Wild to return to her preferred goal defence role.
For the second year in a row, Calivil’s three junior netball teams have made it through to Loddon Valley grand finals.
It’s a remarkable result for the club and bodes well for the Demons’ future prospects in senior grades.
The 13-and-under and 17-andunder teams had to reach the grand finals the hard way, both defeating Maiden Gully sides in preliminary finals last Saturday which were played on their home cvourt..
The youngest girls finished third on the ladder but have
made it through to the decider after a 26-20 win over the Eagles.
The Kellie Anset-coached under-13s have a big task against unbeaten Newbridge on Saturday.
The under-17s, coached by Brianna Richardson, finished on top of the ladder and reached the grand final against Bridgewater with a 52-43 victory over Maiden Gully.
The under-15s won their second semi-final against Marong last week, 52-32, and go into the decider unbeaten for the year.
Coached by Karen Pascoe, they meet the Panthers again in the grand final.
- GARY WALSH
Wedderburn’s Anna Mead
Panthers roam midfield
INGLEWOOD’S wild ride through the Loddon Valley football finals came to a crushing end against Marong on Saturday, but the Woodies’ thrilling efforts lit up the season action.
The Panthers took advantage of a strong breeze at Calivil to storm to a seven-goal lead that effectively ended the preliminary final by quarter-time.
To their credit, the Woodies got within 13 points halfway through the second quarter, but against battle-hardened Marong it was always likely to be an impossible task to recover.
A team chasing its fourth flag on the trot was just too strong for a young side taking its club deeper into the finals than it had been for more than 20 years.
The 61-point win was emphatic, with six goals to none after half-time providing an ideal tune up for the Panthers for the grand final against Bridgewater.
Kain Robins, despite some unusually wayward set shots, and fellow forwards Shaun Knott and Ryley Taylor all contributed multiple goals.
The Panther midfield was dom-
inant even through the ruck contests were probably halved over the course of the match, with Inglewood’s Tom Kennedy battling bravely against Michael Bradbury and Matt Willox.
Lachie Lee, Ben Gregg, Jimmy Gadsden and Ben and Corey Gregg controlled the centre of the ground, where Woodies star Bregon Cotchett was unable to exert his usual influence.
Harry Veitch completed an outstanding finals series for Inglewood as the team’s best player three weeks in a row.
Coach Fergus Payne said the wind was a crucial factor.
“We knew the wind was going to play a part on the day, and they got the jump on us,” he said.
“The experience of their team and their ability to execute under pressure held them in good stead.”
Marong co-coach Kain Robins said his team was aware that Inglewood’s first quarters had not been a strength throughout the season, and winning the toss to take advantage of the wind had proved decisive in the outcome of the match.
Mean Twos hold off Serp by two points
BRIDGEWATER reserves have followed the senior side into a grand final against Marong after a thrilling two-point win over Bears Lagoon Serpentine.
The Mean Machine got out to a three-goal break at half-time, but Serp fought back with 3.5 to nothing in the third quarter to snatch a five-point lead.
The last term was an arm-wrestle, with Bridgey pinching the lead through a set shot by Bradley Holt before Miggy Podosky nailed a fine snap for the Bears.
A running goal to Declan Maher sealed the win and set up another battle with the unbeaten Panthers.
MARONG’S hard-fought under-18 win over Inglewood means all three Panther sides have made the grand final for the second year in succession.
Marong’s 12-point victory against an inaccurate Woodies outfit, 9.6 to 6.12, sealed a berth against Maiden Gully in the decider.
THE last time Bridgewater and Marong met in a grand final, only three years ago at the Camel Hump, the Panthers started their run of Loddon Valley dominance with a blowout victory.
The Boys from Malone Park won’t get it as easy this time in their quest for a fourth-straight flag.
Been impressed with the rise of Bridgewater this season under new coach Lachie Sharp.
Their bottom six have lifted heaps - must be Pat’s diet of pies and vanilla slices.
Yet with 13 runs on the trot, Bridgewater had its momentum stopped when winning the second semi-final over Marong and getting the week off.
That could be a telling factor in Saturday’s grand final at Newbridge where the Holland boys will be arriving bright and early to collect your gate money. Marong has come the long way to the season decider and I feel could be slightly fitter and better prepared than Bridgewater in what will be a close one.
- GLENN CATTO
PREDICTIONS
Matt Willox and Tom Kennedy battle in the ruck. LH PHOTO
Inglewood’s Bregon Cotchett lands a tackle on Corey Gregg. LH PHOTO
Top shooters a potent line
EVERY Loddon Valley club is represented in the league’s Team of the Year, with Bridgewater’s Lachlan Sharp named as coach and Inglewood star Bregon Cotchett as captain.
Grand finalists Bridgey and Marong each had four players chosen in the team, announced at the league’s gala dinner.
Joining Sharp for the Mean Machine were Joe Mayes, Luke Ellings and Jack Neylon, while the Panthers were represented by veteran coach Kain Robins, Ryley Taylor, Brodie Hartland and Jimmy Gadsden.
The front six is remarkably potent, with fullforward Sharp (119 goals) alongside Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s Josh Mellington (99) and Seb Erharter from Inglewood (65).
Half-forwards are Taylor (45) and Robins (54), with Pyramid Hill’s Ben Bisset (74) at centre halfforward.
Bulldog veteran Gavin James, who notched up his 300th club game this season, was named in a back pocket, along with Mitiamo coach Luke Lougoon, with Hartland at full back.
Calivil’s Riley Walsh was picked as a back flank on a line with Mayes and Serp’s Tyler Miles.
Ellings, Cotchett and Maiden Gully’s only representative, Mitch Hill, make up the centre line.
Bears stalwart Nathan Twigg is ruck, with Inglewood’s Harry Veitch and Gadsden as the onballers, while Newbridge’s Will Copland, Woodie Liam Marciano, Pyramid Hill’s Kai Daniels and Neylon are named on the bench.
Inglewood’s three representatives contrast with last season, when the Woodies had no players chosen.
Nine players also made the 2024 team: Sharp, Mellington, Robins, Taylor, Twigg, Neylon, Lougoon, Miles and Mayes.
MACORNA will become the Loddon Valley league’s 10th club in 2026 after AFL Central Victoria approval was given this week to the Tigers’ transfer from the Golden Rivers league.
The official sign-off on the move came after Loddon Valley clubs unanimously backed Macorna’s entry into the competition at a meeting last Wednesday night. League chairman Richard Hicks made the announcement at Monday’s gala dinner who said a 10th club was good for the league.
The Golden Rivers league will fold after this season, with five of the six clubs joining the Central Murray league.
After considering options including joining the Central Murray or Picola District leagues, Macorna’s members plumped for the Loddon Valley and will be welcomed with open arms.
The Tigers won eight flags in the Golden Rivers competition, the last of which was in 1970.
With uncertainty surrounding the future, Macorna won only a single football match in 2025 and finished last on the ladder.
The A Grade netball team also finished at the foot of the table, but results were much stronger at junior level in both football and netball.
The Macorna under-18 football team will play off in the grand final on Saturday against Wandella, while the 17-and-under netball team made the semi finals and the 14-and-under side lost last week in the preliminary final.
A year on, Emmerson confident of a better result
SHOOTING accuracy will be the key to winning this Saturday’s A Grade netball grand final, according to Pyramid Hill coach Chelsea Emmerson.
The Bulldogs take on Mitiamo in a rematch of last year, when the Superoos won by six goals.
For a while last Saturday, it looked as if the Superoos – unbeaten through the home-and-away season – might miss the grand final.
However, they withstood a massive challenge from Bridgewater in the preliminary final to progress to the decider.
Emmerson said she was confident the Bulldogs could reverse last season’s defeat.
“We match up pretty well, but it’s always going to be a competitive game,” she said. In the end, accuracy when shooting for goal would prove decisive, and with the
By GARY WALSH
two teams so evenly matched, Emmerson said her side also had to ensure it wasn’t jumped at the start of the game.
“When they have beaten us, we have not raised our level from the first ball.”
And while being happy that the Bulldogs went straight through to the grand final after a 17-goal win in the semi-final over Mitiamo, Emmerson was unsure whether having a week off would be beneficial to the Bulldog players.
Pyramid Hill had an intra-club practice match last Saturday after organising a game with another club proved logistically impossible.
“We had a good hit out, and we’ve got no injuries,”
Emmerson said, with a “big Thursday night to come”.
Mitiamo coach Abbey Battersby said two recent bereavements at the club had clearly impacted the playing group, but she believed the team would be at its best in the grand final. “The week off (for finishing on top of the ladder) didn’t help us,” she said.
“We’ve had basically the same team for the past three of four years, and the momentum we’ve gained in the last two weeks will help us.
“It worked for us last year, and we’re all fit and well.”
Battersby believed the Superoos’ “team dynamic” would get them over the line against the Bulldogs.
“Everybody plays their role, and if we can win two or three match-ups in each of thirds I think we can win.”
Seb Erharter
Mitiamo’s Alicia Hay
Loddon HERALD sport
WILL IT BE SHARP’S RISING STARS OR ANOTHER PANTHER YEAR?
GRAND TIMES
THE TWO best teams in Loddon Valley football have won through to the grand final, and the league has a decider that promises to be a classic.
While Inglewood may have been the sentimental favourite as it rolled over Bears Lagoon Serpentine and Pyramid Hill to reach the preliminary final, Bridgewater and Marong have been a class above the rest.
It’s September, there’s more than a hint of spring in the air, and a young and confident Mean Machine comes up against a Panthers side that has done it all before.
Newbridge’s Riverside Oval will be heaving, with three footy and seven netball grand finals to be decided.
Marong is looking for a fourth flag in a row, while Bridgey is in its first grand final since 2016 –the last of its run of seven premierships on the trot.
Both teams are packed with talent.
Marong had 21 premiership players on the park against Inglewood, while Bridgewater has an impressive blend of experience and youth.
The Mean Machine won the second semi-final, but it was a match that could have gone either way, with just two points separating the two sides when the final siren sounded.
Two teams boasting potent forward lines, pacy and skilful mid-
By GARY WALSH
field units, and resolute defences will fight it out to the end.
But It’s far too simplistic to look atat the clash as one between the youth of Bridgewater and the experience of Marong.
The Panthers, striving for four flags in succession, will run onto Riverside Oval at Newbridge with perhaps only one player who has not appeared in a senior premiership win.
The Mean Machine has a handful, including coach Lachie Sharp, with flags at Strathfieldsaye in the Bendigo league, and one or two with reserves or junior premierships, but the contrast is stark.
Bridgey’s narrow win over Marong in the second semi-final came after an enthralling contest of swinging momentum.
Neither side could get ahead by more than two-and-a-bit goals, with Bridgewater’s three majors to none in the last term grinding out the dramatic win.
Sharp, fresh off winning the Frank Harding Medal for the league’s best-and-fairest player, said the Mean Machine had deliberately targeted youth in its recruiting this season and looking ahead to 2026.
“Our young guys have shown they can hold up against the best,” he said. “This week’s an even contest across the board, and it will need a four-quarter effort from us – but we have played that way for a few weeks now.”
Rival coach Kain Robins said Marong would not be relying only on its vast experience to win the grand final.
“It’s going to be a bash and crash game, and if we’re harder at the ball and get plenty of forward entries we’ll be a chance.”
Robins said shutting down prolific forwards Sharp and Oscar McKinley would go a long way
towards winning the contest on Saturday.
Will Gadsden has not overcome a hamstring injury, but Jake Ede will be available after recovering from a friendly-fire head clash in the second semi, so there will be a very unlucky Marong player tonight when the teams are named.
“Coaching is an enjoyable job at times, but this is the worst part,”
Little separated Bridgewater and Marong in the semi-final a fortnight ago. The grand final could be just as close.
Robins said. Both teams have recent experience at Riverside Oval, with the Mean Machine grateful for the chance to have a run there last Saturday morning. Sharp said the ground was in “magnificent condition”.
Robins’ team played there in the last round of the season and was impressed with the surface at Newbridge.
