Loddon Herald 16 June 2022

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Vol 2 No 22 THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022 ISSN 2653-1550

Marie and Trevor Ralph can now plan their retirement after four decades running the Inglewood post office

SALE MAIL

THE LINGERING CLOUD over the future of Inglewood’s post office has lifted after two years of uncertainty.

Long-time postmaster Trevor Ralph on Tuesday announced the sale of his postal agency. The sale comes more than three years after Mr Ralph first put his business on the market and several aborted sale offers.

By CHRIS EARL

Mr Ralph said new owners had completed Australia Post training, contracts had been signed and “we’re now looking forward to retirement”. Mr Ralph and wife Marie will officially hand over the business on July 1, ending more than 40 years as the Australia Post-appointed postmaster or licensed post office owner. They had originally planned

NOW SELLING STOCKFEED

to retire more than 12 months ago and earlier this year Australia Post canvassed other options for the future of postal services in Inglewood. “Over the last three years, we have had multiple bites for the business and many false starts with offers made, withdrawn or falling over,” Mr Ralph said. “We’ve kept putting off retirement, hoping that the business could be sold - it’s a good business and the town has a

good future - but the time was coming (for retirement). “We’ve had many moments of disappointment as we have tried to sell but now with everything locked in, we can enter the next phase of our lives.” Details of the new owners will be released shortly. Meanwhile, it is understood an announcement may be close on the Tarnagulla licensed post office, on the market for the past year.

COLLEEN’S HUMBLED, HONOURED COLLEEN Condliffe was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours on Monday. The former Loddon Shire councillor has been recognised for service to the communities of the Loddon Mallee and to women. Colleen said she was humbled and honoured by the award. “This is a recognition of all the wonderful organisations and people in the Loddon,” she said. “Our ongoing journey of contributing to communities is about helping country people, making sure we are heard.” Colleen is a founding director of Inglewood and Districts Community Bank and has chaired the committee that hosted three Women on Farms Gatherings in the region in the past 30 years.

COLLEEN’S JOURNEY - PAGE 13 FIREMAN GREG’S TOP AWARD - PAGE 3

Colleen Condliffe

2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022

H

ERE at OTF, we just love people with confidence who back what they believe in, or for that matter, are doing. Perhaps that’s what inspired Bradley of Boort for his latest Treemendous sign. Of course, he could have taken this latest sign a few steps forward in paying homage to the power of networks - you know, the bush telegraph or grapevine. Better still, there’s an old saying that youngsters were once told: your parents will know what you’ve done before you get home ... and possibly know before you have even done it!

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AKING a lead from Bradley, we went off in search of funny boss stories. One that tickled the fancy was recounted by a former employee: “I once had a boss who, while I was replying to a question addressed to me by their boss in a meeting (with whom I had worked before and had developed rapport), actually put their hand less than an inch in front of my face to silence me so that they could answer instead.”

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PLITTING WORDS: Insertion of an extra word in a motivational saying backfired for one boss. It was recounted: “A while back my boss discovered the motivational quote ‘Only in the dictionary does SUCCESS come before WORK.’ He ordered a large banner for

our work area with his “improved” version of the quote. The banner, which I can see from my desk as I write this, reads: ‘Only in the dictionary does SUCCESS come before HARD WORK’.

A

ND talking of bosses, there is one we would never take on for fear of retribution. That’s the Queen bee whose sting would settle down anyone treading on their opinion.

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HEY say some animals are bossy (or is that rude?). Among them are - Chimpanzees may be some of the most intelligent animals on Earth, but that doesn’t mean they always behave politely; crows who are not always trying to be malicious, they simply have a different way of communicating and interacting with the world around them; seagulls who can be quite aggressive and territorial when it comes to food and in some cases, they have even been known to steal food right out of people’s hands.

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HEN it comes to knowing what another should be doing, you can’t go past a group of 10 viola players. That’s how many it takes to change a light bulb - yep, one to put in the bulb and the other nine to say how it should be done!

HISTORY IN THE WORKS New weatherboards now adorn Korong Vale’s historic Mechanics’ Institute Hall. Decorative window and door frames on the 1905 timber building have been temporarily removed while contractors complete other works under the Loddon Shire project. The building is the second mechanics’ institute hall in Korong Vale and noted for its symmetrical facade and end elevations with intricately fretted barges and fascias, bracketed window sills and colonettes to windows.

Road on state’s worst list

THE Boort-Charlton road has been named among the state’s worst, according to a campaign by the Victorian Coalition. The National and Liberal parties are running a three-month campaign, asking people to list roads they want fixed. Coalition roads spokesperson Steph Ryan said that since elected in 2014, the State Government had axed funds for targeted maintenance of local roads by abolishing the Country Roads

and Bridges Program and disbanded the joint parliamentary committee that had overseen road safety since 1967. Ms Ryan said drivers had an important role to play in exposing the problems. “Instead of fixing roads that are falling apart, State Labor favours a cheap, Band-aid fix with lower speed limits.” The campaign finishes next month and the list of roads will then be presented to the Government.

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Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022 | 3

Fireman’s top award A FIRE service chief who began his career as a junior volunteer with the Rheola brigade was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours on Monday. Greg Leach is now commissioner of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and has been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal. His introduction to Victoria’s Country Fire Authority came at Rheola where his parents Jennifer and Russell were volunteers. Mr Leach has credited his time as a junior firefighter as being vital in his personal development “Involvement in CFA at a young age helped me develop teamwork and leadership skills I have used throughout my career” Commissioner Leach said. “I can clearly remember my dad and the Rheola Rural Fire Brigade heading to the Black Forest ... to work on the frontline of Ash Wednesday fires. The tragic events would be forever etched in our memories and lead to a reshaping of firefighting in Australia.” Commissioner Leach’s award was for exemplary contribution to the Victorian and Queensland communities across his extensive firefighting career, spanning 35 years. He has worked for multiple emergency service agencies in senior executive positions, including the CFA, Ambulance Victoria and Metropolitan Fire Brigade and as commissioner with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. Commissioner Leach is responsible for all operational responses for QFES. Educated at Maryborough Technical College, Commissioner Leach was a member of the Rheola brigade fom 1978 to 1988.

Shares drop DRAMATIC drops on the Australia Stock Exchange this week has hit companies those two companies with substantial operations in the Loddon. Olive grower Cobram Estate saw its share price drop 10 cents, or 6.01 per cent, to close at $1.56 on Monday, its lowest price since listing last August. Mining stocks were hardest hit in the plunge with Catalyst Metals falling eight cents, or 5,23 per cent, after a late rally to close at $1.45, its lowest price since 2019.

Portable weather THE STATE Government on Tuesday announced seven portable automated weather stations which will be used on-location to help firefighters understand fire behaviour on the ground during an incident, or measuring the weather conditions at a specific site in the lead up to and during a planned burn. The units can be set up in 15 minutes and record temperature, wind speed and direction, relative humidity, rain and solar radiation as well as fuel and soil moisture content in the surrounding area.

Booked in

Queensland’s top fireman Greg Leach has been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal. He has been Queensland commissioner since December 2019 after a stint as chief executive officer of Victoria’s Metropolitan and Emergency Services Board. The AFSM citation says: “Commissioner Leach has contributed

Family home destroyed FIRE has destroyed a 90-yearold weatherboard house and left a family homeless. Pyramid Hill brigade captain Steve Mann said local units and tankers from Loddon Valley and Cohuna brigades took three hours to extinguish the early morning blaze last Wednesday. “The house was well alight when we arrived,” he said.

IN BRIEF

He said a family that moved to the area about six months ago lost their possessions in the Mincha Road fire. Preliminary investigations indicate the fire started in the ceiling. Captain Mann said the family had received emergency assistance from the Lions Club, op-shop and through Loddon Shire.

to improved frontline safety for firefighters, enhanced service delivery for the community and increased operational capability. “He has demonstrated leadership and the ability to positively influence, as evidenced by the

ongoing change and use of new technologies and innovation. “Commissioner Leach has contributed leadership, devotion and distinguished service to support fire and emergency services across Victoria and Queensland.”

Blackouts hit main street twice PARTS of Inglewood’s Brooke Street were hit with power blackouts twice over the Queen’s Birthday weekend. Businesses were disrupted by the outages with Sunday’s loss of supply in the busy lunch period for cafes. “It came at a busy time,” said Cafe 3517’s Dave Smyth who received notification of the outage about about 12.25pm. The blackout also disrupted

eftpos connection at Inglewood IGA, Sunday’s central Victorian disruption followed another blackout on Saturday. Powercor said it was investigating “outages of around 20 minutes occurred on both Saturday and Sunday, impacting just over 6000 customers each time. Saturday’s outage occurred just after 6am, while the same customers were impacted on Sunday at 12.20pm.”

PYRAMID Hill Historical Society has added the book chronicling Kevin Sarre’s world-breaking feats as a shearer to its collection. A member of Kevin’s team at Hopefield station in 1959, Alf Parsons and his wife have donated the book to the society after meeting with its president Allan Mann last month. Hopefield’s shearing stand plant is being replaced and also donated to the society.

Winter off INGLEWOOD Lions Club has decided to take a winter break from its monthly markets. Club members are planning the market’s return for spring and is also hoping to move from Brooke Street to outside the town hall.

Case latest ACTIVE COVID-19 cases in the Loddon Shire continue to stay under 40 over the past week. Seven new cases were reported for local communities on Tuesday with 35 active cases.

4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2002

Hunters wait on roo tags

Julie Ramsay

Hazel Knightsbridge

Rhonda Heather

Jenny Fryer

Opportunist eye for fashion bargains THERE were keen eyes for clothing bargains when Newbridge CWA hosted a fashion parade last Thursday. The branch welcomed CWA members from across the region to view outfits worn by volunteers from the Dunolly Uniting Church Op-shop. More than 70 people attended the function where Jenny Fryer introduced the op-shop models and described their garments, complete with special prices. The op-shop opens three days a week and is staffed by volunteers from Dunolly, Tarnagulla, Newbridge and surrounding districts. CWA branch secretary Jenny Hosking said it was pleasing to have a large attendance at the fashion parade. “Everyone was amazed at the quality and styles of the garments that were presented on the catwalk,” she said. Following the fashion parade, members and guests enjoyed a traditional CWA afternoon tea.

PROFESSIONAL shooters harvesting kangaroos across the Loddon are waiting for their next batch of quota tags to be issued. Campaspe Meat’s Loc Rivett said shooters had just enough tags to use in the next fortnight. “There’s no problem in the (lower Wimmera) zone to use up the quota,” said Mr Rivett whose company had been behind a bid to use the former Inglewood abattoirs to process kangaroos for pet meat. That application to Loddon Shire faltered on a planning technicality. Kangaroos shot in the Loddon are being taken to Seymour for processing. Local shooter Glen Cole said there were areas where kangaroo numbers were estimated in the hundreds including Woodstock and Shelbourne. “The number of tags (being issued) is not keeping up,” he said.

Grading roads

Danni Kent from Newstead CWA branch has an eye on fashion and one of her knitting. LH PHOTO

MORE than 600km of gravel roads had been graded in the Loddon Shire for the first quarter of 2022, councillors were told at their last meeting. Officers said inspections had found 1295 defects on roads with 99.3 per cent made compliant.

Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022 | 5

Miners push for reform to lift regional growth MINING should be a priority industry for regional development, Minerals Council of Australia has said in its Victorian election priority paper released last week. The council’s Victorian division executive director James Soharan said the industry had set out policies to promote exploration and reforms to turn resource discoveries into new mines. “It demonstrates how MCA member companies are committed to best practice environmental and community regulation,” he said. Key pushes by the council ahead of November’s election are: z Strategic minerals project facilitation to support efficient government approvals and see projects through all the stages of assessment and approval; z Reform the exploration licensing regime to bring Victoria into line with other states with longer licence terms and less early land relinquishments; z Reform the gold royalty regime to bring the effective rate into line with other states and ensure it is tailored to Victoria’s geology z Re-introduce a co-funded exploration grant program; and z Support regionally delivered

mining-related courses to provide pathways into mining. The priority paper also highlights support of rural communities in the Loddon, including Catalyst Metals donating $100,000 to Dingee Bush Nursing Centre, for a remote area nurse and funding for an upgrade to a vehicle used by Ambulance Victoria’s Pyramid Hill community emergency response team. “Supporting the development of Victoria’s minerals industry should be a high priority for government to secure more economically diverse and prosperous regional communities,” Mr Sorahan said. “A growing minerals industry is good for all Victorians. Minerals projects play an important

role in regional development by creating high paying jobs, and supporting a supply chain of innovative small and medium sized businesses. “This decade offers Victoria an opportunity to rediscover mining as a major driver of economic growth, particularly in regional Victoria, as demand for minerals grows and knowledge of Victoria’s mineral endowment increases due to record high exploration spending – $218.5 million in 2021. Turning Victoria’s minerals endowment into new investment and jobs will create more opportunities in regional Victoria. “Victoria should aim to double the number of mines from six to 12 by the end of the dec-

ade. This would attract billions of dollars in investment, create thousands of jobs and establish supply chain opportunities for businesses across the state.” Mr Sorahan said the Victorian minerals industry strived to operate in a “safe, respectful and responsible manner”. “This means working in partnership to protect indigenous heritage, conserving the environment, being part of communities and delivering social and economic benefits to support regional prosperity. “All MCA member companies commit to Enduring Value – the Australian minerals industry framework for sustainable development to improve environmental, social and governance performance. “MCA member companies are also preparing to adopt the Towards Sustainable Mining system which will provide greater accountability and transparency on sustainability performance. “It’s time for Victoria to rediscover mining,” he said. Catalyst is expected to make a decision within months on a possible $20 million exploration tunnel near Mitiamo as the company continues exploration in the district.

Visitors’ weekend check-in THE Loddon was a popular destination for overnight and day-trip visitors over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. Accommodation was at a premium across the region and river camping areas were also well patronised. Among popular attractions was Inglewood’s Eucalyptus Distillery Museum where manager Nicole Upton said Sunday was particularly busy when dozens of people arrived. “Our stock levels became low. I did not anticipate such an influx of customers but will ensure we have high stock levels in future,” she said. Police patrolled Loddon highways and roads as part of Operation Regal and speed cameras were placed in several locations over the weekend.

Independence Day SCHOOLS in Pyramid Hill have been celebrating Philippine’s Independence day. St Patrick’s marked the occasion on Friday and Pyramid Hill College on Tuesday. The United Filipino Organisation will hold its celebration next month.

Youth debate sustainability Bill A PROPOSAL by Loddon youngsters will be debated when Victoria’s Youth Parliament sits this month. Wedderburn’s Jake Murphy and Mia Braun, of Pyramid Hill, are part of the North Central LLEN team that has been told its Sustainability and Carbon Neutrality in Mining Bill has been included in the sitting’s agenda. Jake said the local team looked at important issues in developing their bill. “In the beginning stages, the hard part was finding an issue to tackle, finding issues that were important to us and to our rural communities here,” he said. “However, like a lot of people our age we were concerned with global warming and pollution, and with multiple quarries in the regions, and core drillings revealing some promising outlook in the Loddon Shire, the team decided to tackle the process of encouraging more sustainable practices in the industry.”

The Youth Parliament bill includes clauses to establish an independent board regulating sustainable practices and the approval of mining leases and licenses and using revenue from mining to retrain mine operators to become qualified around rehabilitating of land after mining ends. Mia said: “I believe that the bill is an astonishing and unique approach to dealing with the encroaching reality of climate change. “If the bill is to be implemented into state laws, then not only will it revegetate and allow the devastated areas to prosper, but it will be a building block to creating a more environmentally sustainable economy,” she said. Youth Parliament teams from across Victoria will meet in Melbourne for three days from June 27. The annual program is organised by the YMCA.

PETER PETER WALSH WALSH

YOUR YOUR VOICE VOICE IN IN GOVERNMENT PARLIAMENT are family, friends, SAVING colleagues and neighbours $250We POWER BONUS — but most of all we are a community. DOES MURRAY PLAINS QUALIFY? EXTENDED TO JUNE 30 The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times Yes, if you have isa essential. CentrelinkIt is pension of crisis. The Federal Government is providing support for the mental health and wellbeing of concession card, a Department of Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you Veterans Affairs concession or gold feel like you might need some additional help coping with anxiety and worry about Coronavirus.

card or receive Jobseeker, Youth Allowance, Abstudy or Austudy; you do.

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

Go to www.compare.energy.vic.gov.au orthrough. call my office We are in this together, and together we will get Peter Walsh MP 496 High Street, Echuca 3564 Tel: 5482 2039 or 1300 467 906 E: peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au

6 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022

Webster call on child care

PRACTICAL and targeted measures for remote and regional towns were needed from the new Federal Government to meet its promise of “child care free for all”, said Mallee MP Anne Webster. Dr Webster told the Loddon Herald that child care was a priority when advocating for communities in Mallee. Asked if she would advocate that the Federal Government addresses the child care desert in the Loddon and support Wedderburn College’s proposal for child care co-location on school property, Dr Webster said: “I have met with many interest groups in Loddon and the wider electorate advocating for better childcare services, these towns include but are certainly not limited to Boort, Pyramid Hill and Wedderburn.” Dr Webster said she had written to new Education Minister Jason Clare and Early Childhood Education Minister Anne Aly for retention of the Community Child Care Fund for regional communities of the previous government. That program allocated funding for up to 19 new child care centres and during the election Dr Webster announced funding for a centre in Murtoa. State Education Minister James Merlino said in Wedderburn last month that funding of

child care centres was a Federal Government responsibility. Dr Webster said she had also written to the Australian Electoral Commission and Special Minister of State Don Farrell requesting return of the Mallee divisional office to the electorate. The office is located in Bendigo with the AEC saying it was best use of taxpayer dollars. Dr Webster did not say whether she would make a submission to Parliament’s Electoral Matters committee that will review operation of the May 21 election. And with fuel prices rising back above $2 a litre across the Loddon and the cut in excise to end in three months, Dr Webster said: “Now that Labor is in government and responsible for policy and funding, I will hold Labor to account on their management of the rising cost of living and how they plan to address these impacts on regional communities specifically. “The challenges of global energy price increases are immense and have been caused by a variety of reasons, from problems in the global supply chain to the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” she said. “However, here is action that can be taken domestically by the new Labor government which they must do swiftly to ease the cost of living for families.”

SPINNING AWAY Newbridge Social Club raised more than $1400 on Sunday for Bendigo Health with prizes up for grabs on the spinning wheel at the town’s hotel. Gail Davies, Ken Lundberg and club president Robert Pell are pictured after spinning up more winners. LH PHOTO

Duck hunting season comes to an end VICTORIA’S three-month duck hunting season ended Monday night, Hunting opponents have claimed the season started and finished with a whimper. Regional Victorians Opposed to Duck Shooting is wanting a switch in emphasis across the Loddon from hunting to nature-based tourism. Project manager Sue Williams said: “When

Investment guides now available A number of new investment guides for Loddon Shire have recently been published on Council’s website, highlighting the solid opportunities for growth to businesses investing in our region.

Calling all photographers – what does Loddon Shire mean to you?

Loddon Valley Arts Trail 2022 – Expressions of interest now open!

Council is looking for images from around our Shire to use for our Annual Report (and other Council publications) covering the theme “What does Loddon Shire mean to you?”

The first official Loddon Valley Arts Trail will be launching in 2022 on 22-23 October.

We’re after photos that really capture the essence of living in our Loddon Shire – be it landscapes, natural attractions, buildings, plants, animals or local events. If you’re a photographer and would like to see your photo in print, please send your image to photos@loddon.vic.gov.au and let us know where the image was taken.

The guides provide industry snapshots to investing in specific agribusiness in Loddon Shire: the table egg industry, meat poultry enterprise, lot feeding, pig industry enterprise, and niche and artisanal production. The proximity to Bendigo as a major regional city positions Loddon Shire well for economic and logistic opportunity as well as lifestyle amenity. As part of the Victorian Goldfields tourist region, the economy also supports niche and artisanal producers as well as major wine and olive industries. Loddon Shire is well known for history, welcoming communities and diverse landscapes that create a natural playground that connects the visitor economy to tourism industry opportunities. The guides are available to view (and download) at Council’s website via www.loddon.vic.gov.au/For-business/Invest-in-Loddon and by clicking on “Industry snapshots”.

birdwatching is so popular and lucrative, and our regions are home to native waterbird species unique to our country, our opportunity is clear. But to be able to benefit, we must stop the gunfire, because it’s not synonymous.” Strong numbers of shooters were reported across northern areas of the Loddon at the weekend and daily bag numbers easily met.

Credit will be given for any photographs published by Loddon Shire, so please include details of who has taken the image.

The Loddon Shire is currently accepting expressions of interest from both local artists and venues that are willing to host artists. It would be excellent to see representation across the entire Loddon Valley to encourage visitors to stay for the duration of the Arts Trail weekend. Submit an expression of interest here bit.ly/3vNO2j3. Expressions of interest close at 5pm 30 June 2022. For more information contact the Loddon Visitor Information Centre on 03 5494 1257 or email loddonvisitorinformation@loddon.vic.gov.au

SOLAR DISCUSSION Bendigo Sustainability Group and Community Power Hub Loddon Mallee will be holding an in-person community discussion in Wedderburn regarding ideas and options for solar, including available support.

The in-person community discussion will take place on tomorrow 17 June from 2pm to 3.30pm at Wedderburn Neighbourhood House. Online community discussions are also available on Thursday 23 June from 7pm to 8pm.

COUNCIL OFFICE T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003 Cr Dan Straub Mayor Terrick Ward 0429 236 399

Cr Neil Beattie Boort Ward 0427 552 468

Cr Wendy Murphy Inglewood Ward 0436 457 170

Cr Linda Jungwirth Tarnagulla Ward 0428 259 082

Cr Gavan Holt Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008

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

CONTACT COUNCIL

41 High Street Wedderburn 3518

Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022 | 7

50,000 push-ups at half-way mark THE Boort community is smashing targets in the Push-Up Challenge raising awareness for mental health. At the mid-way point of the 24-day challenge involving more than 80 locals, a total of 48,736 push-ups have been completed. And organiser Sherryn O’Flaherty said participants were well on the way to meeting the revised fundraising target of

$5000 with more than of $2825 already donated, Among those taking part in the challenge is Boort District School’s Year 7 home group. Teacher Sharon Pickering. said: “I thought the challenge would be a great way for a home group to bond, while learning about and raising money for a worthy cause. “The laughter as we attempt

the push-ups each morning has certainly been a highlight,” she said. “Each day, the children within the Home Group are learning about different mental health facts - 135 push-ups - evidence suggests that three 45-minute exercise sessions per week (135 minutes total) is enough to provide anti-depressant benefits to mental health.”

Under 14 footballers take part in the push-up challenge.

Sasha digs social scene

FAMILY TOGETHER The Canfield family held a reunion at Powlett Hall on Saturday where seven-weekold Django Canfield was introduced to relatives by parents Sam and Leah, of Wedderburn Junction. Descendants of George and Johanna Canfield, who settled at Fiery Flat in the 19th century, came from across the state and shared memories and stories while looking at special photoboards made for the occasion. Ken Canfield, who helped organise the reunion luncheon, said it was good to have so many descendants together.

SASHA the dasha may be a miniature dacshund, but she’s digging the social scene since arriving in the Loddon last month. Annie-Marie Davis had then eight-week-old Sasha on barbecue duties for Campbells Forest Community Hub at Bridgewater on election day. Since then, the adorable dog with her own Instagram page, has shared travel photos as she ventures around the state and pops along to other establishments no doubt wishing for some small portions of the food being consumed by her human handlers. See what the very social Sasha is doing at www. instagram.com/sasha_the_ dasher

LH PHOTO

War refugee speaks at touring exhibition SIERRA Leone war refugee Isaiah Lahai will visit the Shrine of Remembrance touring exhibition Changed Forever: Legacies of Conflict in Pyramid Hill. Isaiah will talk on Sunday about his tale of survival fleeing his homeland eventually making his way to Melbourne. The talk is one of three final

special events during the exhibition in Pyramid Hill Memorial Hall. Isaiah’s story will touch on love, compassion, and generosity of spirit in multiple countries and refugee camps after he fled Sierra Leone in 1991. Royal Flying Doctor Service mental health clinician David

Turnbull and James Farquharson will be at a men’s breakfast as part of the exhibition next Thursday. James was a peacekeeper and served in East Timor. James has had a career as an educator. He will speak about his time in the military, how he copes with PTSD and the benefits he finds in art.

A final community creative connections event will be held next Friday. Changed Forever: Legacies of Conflict focuses on stories of soldiers and refugees, mental health, resettlement, and the resulting changing nature of Australian society and ends its Pyramid Hill showing on June 26.

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Socially-savvy and adorabloe Sasha

8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2002

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST Seeking new members for the

Mallee - Dhelk Dja Action Group (Mallee Indigenous Family Violence Regional Action Group)

Are you an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander who lives in the Mallee Region? 100 UP Ivan Vanderwall was Do you have an interest in participating on the Mallee - Dhelk Dja Action Group? Find out how you can support the values and principles that underpin the goals of the Victorian Indigenous Family Violence Strategy: • Safety and security for victims of violence • Strong community leadership and positive role models • No more violence in the home, in the family, or the community

Please reach out to find out more by contacting either: Pauline Ugle, Mallee Dhelk Dja Regional Coordinator Mobile: 0428 760 396 Email: pauline.ugle@dffh.vic.gov.au

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surrounded by family and friends for his 100th birthday party in Pyramid Hill on Saturday. He received congratulations from the Queen, the Governor General and federal and state MPs that were read out by Terry Wood and presented to Ivan in a special album by Josie Hunter. Messages of best wishes were also received from family members overseas. Ivan used a hand fan to “blow” out the candles on his centenary cake that was later shared with more than 70 people who had gathered at the town’s bowling LH PHOTOS club.

Rail track upgrades complete: minister

FREIGHT operators and farmers will benefit from the completion of upgrade works on three freight lines in north-west Victoria, according to the State Government. Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne said on Tuesday that works on the Mildura, Sea Lake and Manangatang lines had improved the condition of the track and reduced the risk of infrastructure faults which can delay grain loading. The works included the installation of more than 170,000 new sleepers, the addition of over 30,000 tonnes of ballast to the track and maintenance on more than 8000 joints between pieces of rail. The works also involved operating specialised machinery along the length of the Manangatang line to improve the surface of the track along with the section of track between Korong Vale and Dunolly, which Manangatang and Sea Lake line trains share. The Government said staff walkways were also improved to make it easier to access different parts of the train during

loading, and 15 sidings where trains load products across the lines were upgraded. The works now also pave the way for 29kms of temporary speed restrictions to be removed on the Manangatang line, slashing travel times for freight trains by 20 minutes. The Government said it had invested more than $50 million in track improvements across north-west Victoria’s freight lines over the past two years – making it safer, faster and easier for freight operators to load product onto trains and for farmers to transport their goods. Mildura line freight trains carry fruit, wine, grain and peas, while the Sea Lake line carries grain and the Manangatang line carries grain, containerised hay and wine from Ultima. A typical 650-metre long fully loaded grain train carries approximately $880,000 worth of grain and is equivalent to 50 loaded trucks, reducing heavy vehicle movements on local roads. The works were as part of V/Line’s infrastructure improvement program.

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NEW FLAG Boort Amity has purchased a new troop flag for Lake Boort Scouts. Amity’s Maree Stringer and Kathy Lowrie last week presented the flag to Scout leaders Garry Schmidt and Adrian Cotton.

Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022 | 9

Toasting new vintage KINGOWER vineyard Both Banks released its 2021 wine on Sunday. The merlot, cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon 2021 Next Gen Year is named in honour of owner Mark and Chris Gilmore’s grandchildren Hugo and Remy. Mark said winemaker Cameron Leith had crafted the smooth wine. He said: “Cam Leith makes the handpicked fruit. It shows characteristic strong fruit flavours, typically produced by the old vines growing in the rich red clay and alluvial gravel creek bank soils here at Kingower. “Strong berry fruit characteristics and

often a hint of mint is visible as the grapes grow protected by the surrounding Eucalypts. “We try to grow the best fruit we can and look after it to ensure quality wine. We involve our family and friends in the process whenever we can. “Every year we name our wine after the most striking event of the year. As a result we have wines called; Carbon Tax, Performance Enhancing, Shirtfront, Captains Call, Love is love, Leaders Spill and How Good is Wine.” Sunday’s launch included music and stories about Mark and Chris’s wines.

Geoff and Carol Canfield with Mark Gilmore at the release day. LH PHOTOS

Deb Smith

Debbie and Peter Coon

Shire develops industrial land plans A L,ODDON SHIRE industrial land strategy is expected to be completed by December. The shire’s strategic planner Carolyn Stephenson has told councillors that a modified brief had been prepared for the project after council had been unable to secure a consultant “with capacity to respond to the original brief”.

She said the modified brief had some elements of the strategy being undertaken in-house. A consultant was preparing a quote for elements of the project that required external expertise. An updated flood control planning scheme amendment is also expected to be completed by December.

WE LOVE PLAYGROUP!

Wedderburn College is very popular on Tuesday mornings, thanks to their thriving playgroup program. It’s a great place to catch up with families and for our younger generation to have some baking, making, dancing fun! Come and join in on a Tuesday morning at the college, from 9am-10:30am. All families welcome!

10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022

INVESTMENT in irrigation automation has led to time and labour savings for Doug Perryman. The Boort farmer has been a case study in the Irrigated Cropping Council’s Plan2Farm project and says “any automation will pay dividends”. Doug operates a mixed farming business growing summer and winter crops and running 550 Merino ewes joined with white Suffolk rams, lambing in March and April. The total farm area is 650 hectares, 400 under irrigation. He also leases an adjoining 160 hectares of dryland and share farms another 90-hectare irrigation block. He describes his farm as established but still developing. Doug says the the farm was fairly run down when he and wide Tam purchased the main block in 2015. “The decision was made to improve the irrigation infrastructure to ensure that water could be used effectively,” he said. “We invested in the future and purchased an automated system in excess of their requirements. Now almost 90 per cent of the farm is irrigated, and the automation has proven a sound investment, due to the improved irrigation efficiency and labour savings.” Doug said the farm’s model was to achieve flexibility in responding to water price changes. “Water is cheap at the moment and that means we can look at more intensive cropping and our livestock numbers,” he said. “In the last 12 months we have grown corn on 90 hectares of the farm. Most went into the dairy industry for feed although we did have the option of going to export. “We had a very cool and wet March and the corn has yielded well ... we only finished the corn harvest a few weeks ago because it didn’t dry down well with the wet and cold. “And that meant corn harvest

coincided with sowing the winter crops, so there were some long days and late nights.” Doug said he used knowledge of water markets and how to utilise available water to optimise farm systems to make decisions on crop rotation and the sheep enterprise. “Our plan is reviewed regularly so we can adapt to the season ahead,” he said. Doug also works as an agronomist and grows similar crops to his clients, but on a smaller scale, which he says gives practical knowledge. Today’s water prices are in contrast to four years ago when Doug said the resource was ex-

pensive. “I did the calculations, the grain price was good so it was profitable to irrigate. But when grain prices are low and water prices high, I switch back to dryland and cut hay ... The aim is to maximise profitability. “As a small farmer, any automation I can put in place makes the farm processes more labour friendly.” Doug first grew corn two seasons ago because water was cost effective. To mitigate some of the risk of not putting a summer crop in, clover, vetch and oats were sown for sheep to graze during winter and near spring sowing, he sprayed and fertilised the paddock to sow corn.

“The sheep were then moved to dryland vetch paddocks. This means I’m effectively getting 1½ crops out of that paddock optimising land and water use.” Part of Doug’s rejuvenation of the farm included longer bays, and fewer irrigation service points. “There will always be variability in water price and availability. An infrastructure plan for your whole of farm is valuable for the longer term,” he said. “Farming relies on a lot of variables which can change quickly,

‘

- DOUG PERRYMAN

‘

Flexibility, automation drive great efficiency

We invested in the future ... now almost 90 per cent of the farm is irrigated, and the automation has proven a sound investment

so you have to be adaptive in your crop choice and water use. “Try to be flexible, have a plan, which is reviewed regularly. Be flexible year to year, understand water markets, when water is there and cost effective, then you need to be set up to utilise it fully. “Finally, maintain your infrastructure and try to minimise your infrastructure per hectare costs. Capitalise in the good years and reduce your costs in the dry years”.

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Louise

STALEY MP STATE MEMBER FOR RIPON

177 High Street, Maryborough VIC 3465 5461 1255 or 1300 STALEY (free call) Louise.Staley@parliament.vic.gov.au LouiseStaleyRipon LouiseStaley.com.au Authorised by Louise Staley MP, 177 High Street, Maryborough.

Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022 | 11

Irrigation tool of new ideas

NEW irrigation system selection and design guidelines have been released by Agriculture Victoria. The online guide includes new information for today’s irrigators. Farm and Environment Working Group Chair, Alfred Heuperman, launched the Irrigation System Selection Risk Management tool. Agriculture Victoria senior irrigation extension officer Rabi Maskey said the web-based tool would assist irrigators and service providers to make better decisions when selecting new, or considering improvements to their existing irrigation systems. “The updated website provides answers to more than 90 frequently asked questions, packaged under five key steps, and will guide users through a logical decision-making process.” The five steps are: z What do I want to achieve?

WOOL

z What are my farm’s features and constraints? z What irrigation options should I consider? z What needs to be included in my design and management and what will it cost? z What option best meets my goal? Mr Maskey said each of these steps included detail and description to assist users in their decision-making process, in a easy to follow approach. “Ultimately, it is our aim that irrigators will be better informed when making decisions on what irrigation system best suits their needs and assist them to better manage their irrigation risks.” The project was funded by the Agriculture Victoria Smarter Safer Farms Initiative with support from the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority and North Central Catchment Management Authority.

Improving shearers on stands AN INTENSIVE shearing course is being run by Shearing Contractors Association of Australia at Kurting this week. Shearers are receiving instruction from accredited trainers to

further develop their skills on the shearing stands. The four-day course is being conducted in the shearing shed on the Wilson family farm and follows earlier courses there.

THE just the two Eastern centres operating at last week’s Australian wool auctions, the reduced volumes available seemed to resonate positively with the buyers. Price gains on most types were achieved and were significant in magnitude in many cases. With just three selling weeks left of this 2021/22 selling season, the trade purchases went through the 1.5million bale mark of wool sold this season at auction. This represents a raw wool value approaching A$2.5billion. One or two of the largest traders stepped up their buying of Merino types and the ensuing competition against the first stage manufacturers led to the strong price gains. Purchasing though was again dominated by these direct to factory requirements from mills, adding to the three- week run of purchasing dominance of these users. The Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) accelerated 1.7 per cent upwards last week to 1438ac/

GRAIN

Each trust is different, but most have common elements. What is a Beneficiary? All trusts have Beneficiaries, who generally are passive potential recipients of trust income and capital. What is a Trustee? All trusts have a Trustee, which manages the assets of the trust, and decides whether to distribute income and capital to beneficiaries. A Trustee can be one or more people, or a company. If a company is the trustee, then clarifying the shareholdings and directorships of the company is important when considering estate planning issues. What is an Appointor? Not all trusts have Appointors. The role of Appointor (sometimes known as Guardian, or some other name) is to control the Trustee, and to fire and replace the Trustee if the Trustee does not act pursuant to the Appointor’s wishes. Accordingly, the role of Appointor is extremely powerful and important. Next steps? Reading the trust deed to understand who is the Trustee and Appointor, and what happens if the

Appointor dies or loses capacity, is key to understanding who controls the assets in the trust on death or retirement.

on a week to week comparison. These sort of gains were mainly in the superfine category finer than 18.5micron, although some very low vm lots in the broader areas also hit those heights. The significant appreciation of Merino types was not matched within the carding/oddment sectors as those wools recorded losses of between 10 to 25ac. The greater falls were predominantly across the locks and crutchings descriptions. Crossbred wool types were largely unchanged but around the 28 micron mark, 10ac gains were apparent giving a glimpse of improvement in demand/interest for that category. Sales this week return to the three selling centres in operation, but volumes remain relatively light at around 38,000 bales. The following week sees just the two Eastern centres operating again. - AWI

Sheep back next week

Boort Grain Co-op prices as at Tuesday. Wheat - H1 $455 FIS. H2 $442.25 FIS. APW $445 FIS. ASW $422 FIS. GP1 $408 FIS. Barley - PL1 $404 FIS. SP1 ISCC $394 FIS. Bar1 $404 FIS. Pulses - Faba 1 $443 FIS. Faba 2$435 FIS. Season 22-23 deld site - APW MG $417.00. Bar1 MG $362 +$20 Malt.

Farm succession planning – The second of the four key questions – what do I control? Many farms own land and other assets in trusts for succession planning efficiency, asset protection, or tax minimisation purposes. In a trust structure, the trust owns assets which remain in the trust after death or retirement. Control of the trust usually equates to control of the assets in the trust, so understanding whether assets are owned in a trust, and how control of the trust should be transferred, is extremely important.

clean kg. This is the highest closing AUD EMI basis for four months and the second highest of the season. Despite the rising value of the AUD against most other currencies, the USD EMI outperformed the Aussie values and shot 2.2 per cent higher to 1036usc/clean kg. At this level, the USD EMI is well above the current seasonal average of 1002usc/clean kg. With the higher prices for a large portion of the offering, the clearance rates at auction improved strongly to 90.4 per cent. This was strongly influenced by the 95.4 per cent clearance rate within the Merino fleece. There was no Western wool auction this week. Led by the better quality sale lots of all microns, prices for Merino wools posted general gains of 30 to 40ac/clean kg. Many individual lots achieved much higher returns and clips that achieved lower vm (vegetable matter), good yields and reasonable length and strength results were 60 to 80ac better

BENDIGO sheep and lamb markets resume next Monday after skipping this week due to the Queen’s Birthday weekend. There was a bigger yarding of 14,700 lambs last week, drawn out by rising saleyard prices the previous week and Monday’s public holiday which cancelled the regular Bendigo market.

Do you need to protect the things that matter most?

It’s time to talk. Will and Powers of Attorney Complex Estate Planning and Testamentary Trusts

This is the third in a series of 6 articles on farm succession planning that aim to help you start the process to ensure an efficient transition of your wealth to your intended beneficiaries.

Estate administration Farm succession planning Disputed estates

For the full series, and other resources, visit our website at www.robertsonhyetts.com.au

Trent McGregor Wills and Estate Planning Lawyer

Our expert, Trent McGregor, will be speaking at the Bendigo Sheep and Wool Show on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 July, at 2pm in the Careers and Technology Marquee Far from being the simple life, farming is a complex mix of land, equipment, relationships and knowledge, all carefully and strategically managed for generations. Robertson Hyetts have the experience and knowledge to help secure your legacy now, and plan for the future with confidence. Call us on 03 5434 6666 or visit us at robertsonhyetts.com.au

12 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022

FEATURES | OPINION | QUIZ

Time to assess bird damage 1. What is the capital city of Finland? 2. Adolphe Sax was the inventor of which musical instrument? 3. In Roman mythology, Mars was the God of what? 4. Which fictional cat loves eating lasagna? 5. How many different species of cockatoo can be found in Australia? 6. The Northern Territory landmark Kata Juta is also known by what other name? 7. Including the jokers, how many cards in a standard deck of playing cards? 8. Which Saint is celebrated on March 17 each year? 9. In the Lion King, Pumba is what sort of animal? 10. Tiger woods competes in which sport? 11. ‘The Golden Arches’ is a nickname for which popular world-wide restaurant? 12. When was the first tractor believed to have been built? 13. What do we call trees that never lose their leaves? 14. Which two elements make up water? 15. Name the author who wrote the Fantastic Five series of books. 16. Emerald is the birthstone of which month of the year? 17. Is Christchurch on the North or South Island of New Zealand? 18. What is the national currency of China? 19. Where on the body would you wear an Epaulette? 20. What is the most common name for a pub in Australia?

ANSWERS

SPECIES protected and otherwise continue to create havoc in Loddon communities. Kangaroos are still harvested in the area, just instead of being processed here, they are transported to another country region. A quirk in zoning scuppered plans by a business to put the former Inglewood abbatoirs back to use. Yet, as reported in this week’s Loddon Herald, kangaroo numbers are still high and professional hunters have only just enough tags issued under the State Government quota system for harvesting and are finding no shortage of roos. And no shortage is there of corellas. A protected species, all anecdotal information points to an explosion in their numbers. Damage to trees is evident to the na-

EDITORIAL ked eye along the Loddon River and now the birds are taking to sporting fields with a vengeance from north to south. Reports say they are mixing meals of tree bark, leaves and timber, grass and turf with nibbles on plastic protective fittings on roof tops and public lighting poles. And instead of being a summer problem, large populations of corella are now choosing to stay on their Loddon perches well into winter, creating additional challenges for farmers straight after sowing crops. Department of Environment Water Land and Planning has told the Loddon Herald that responsibility for managing

corellas could come down to what side of a bridge or river they are on. Sorry, but these birds do not discriminate based on who manages a parcel of land or riverbank. The department is the State Government representative for managing the status of corellas. It is time for DEWLP to promptly conduct an audit of the corella population across our region, assess the health of the Loddon River and riverbank trees. And then, armed with data and evidence of extent of damage, the department can take responsibility, no handballing, and begin programs to better manage and control these birds.

Population prediction: corellas are on the rise

Claims by the Australian Native Parrot Protection Association that corellas are facing climate change stress has drawn a reaction from readers Mark Gilmore wrote: So I had a quick read. Little corellas have gone from three million to six million from 2015 to 2020. There is no current data in the study but on that trend we probably have about eight million and rising now. Nick Marlow wrote: Well if “the science” says this, then we better not question it and just do what these people say. Follow the science. Do not question the science. Sounds familiar. What a load of unscientific crap.

YOUR ONLINE WORDS Cath Bratic wrote: They are a pest ... so much destruction.

Russ Healy wrote: Hardly ever saw them when we were kids. Howard Rochester wrote: I saw my first ones at Bridgewater after the 1983 drought.

Peter Prendergast wrote: Apparently

Success for Loddon butchers Jye and Kristy Arnold has seen many readers offer congratulations Jenni Perry wrote: Well done Jye and Kristy, it was great to see you on the front page of the Loddon Herald, wonderful gold awards! Edwina Chalmers wrote: Well deserved,

they’re moving to Tassie for a cooler environment ... too stressed.

Jye and Kristy, your hard work paying off. Congratulations and thank you for the service you provide to our town.

Michael Saunders wrote: There must be billions of the destructive buggers

Steel’s Butchers wrote: Awesome work guys. hard work pays off.

They also posses highly developed cognitive abilities due to having the largest brains in the bird kingdom; they learn quickly to discern whether something is a threat to them or not. It is therefore farcical to expect them to be dissuaded from entering an area by the placement of ‘snake tapes,’ cardboard cutouts of cats, loud noises or other, frankly, ignorant and unsuccessful strategies that have been catalogued over the years. It is more the case that these naïve ideas reveal that our cognitive abilities are sadly lacking. And so it remains incumbent on us all, as a self-proclaimed, ‘enlightened’ population, to understand why they are attracted to certain areas and not others, how to better adapt our use of those areas and to utilise emerging technology, so that we may peacefully co-exist. Fortunately, there are experts who do

understand this behaviour and are in a better position to help us avoid conflict.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

It’s natural behaviour Sir, I am writing in response to your recent stories on the difficulties being reported in relation to corella activity in the shire under the epithet of ‘Bark crazy.’ You have chosen a particularly pejorative term to caricature what is natural behaviour in Australian native parrots. What is needed is further understanding of this behaviour in order to provide a solution which both meets community expectations and avoids the unnecessary killing of wildlife. Native parrots have been a part of our ecosystem for 95 million years and are well adapted to our landscape. But not so to the rapid changes of climate wrought through human activity and our rapacious appetite to acquire their habitat.

Phillip Martin Wodonga

Keep traffic coming Sir, Sorry I totally disagree with talk of a bypass of Inglewood. The town will die if a bypass is put in. This has happened to many towns before. It’s a joke to think you wouldn’t lose all the passing trade. Whilst speeding trucks are a big problem so are cars, caravans and drivers doing U turns in the main street. We should be looking at ways to work with the traffic not keep them out of the town.

Debbie Musgrove Inglewood

minbi 19. Shoulder 20. The Royal Hotel 15. Enid Blyton 16. May 17. South Island 18. RenConiferous or Evergreen 14. Hydrogen and Oxygen A Warthog 10. Golf 11. McDonalds 12. 1889 13. (21 worldwide) 6. The Olgas 7. 54 8. St Patrick 9. 1. Helsinki 2. Saxophone 3. War 4. Garfield 5. 14

Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022 | 13

FEATURES

Colleen’s committed journey for community By CHRIS EARL THE lessons of family have guided Queen’s Birthday Honours’ recipient Colleen Condliffe in her service to communities. The Medal of the Order of Australia awardee says her involvement in local affairs and helping people had come from her grandmother. “Ma always told us that if you don’t look after community, become involved, there will not be community,” Colleen reflected from the verandah of her Salisbury West home at the weekend. Hours before the award was to be announced, Colleen said she had been amazed to receive a letter from the Governor-General’s office two months ago, asking if she would accept the OAM. “Honestly, I was overwhelmed. It’s not something you expect or seek,” she said. “I’m so humbled and honoured that someone ... I think I know who ... took the time to nominated me. “But the award is really for all the people in our local communities who have been on a greater journey for recognition and awareness of rural and farm people for decades. “In anything that we have done, I’ve always had at the back of my mind those words of Ma that have kept driving me to pursue things in our communities. “Every moment has been enjoyed and that same sense of contributing to community I hope has been passed on to our kids and grandkids who are now also stepping up.” Colleen said involving family in community activities was important to growing strength of community. “We always took our children to things and got them involved. It’s important for younger generations to see what is happening and be a part of that,” she said. The drought years of the 1990s brought multiple challenges for Loddon farmers, their families and communities. That’s when Colleen upped her involvement as an advocate raising awareness to their plight.

Colleen at home on the farm LH PHOTO “I guess there were a few of us who became vocal about what was happening to farmers and making sure members of Parliament heard what we had to say,” she said. From becoming a Victorian Farmers’ Federation councillor, bringing farmers together planting trees in the early days of Landcare and establishing the region’s Women on Farms Gathering committee to host rural women from across Victoria in that traumatic decade, Colleen also challenged herself. “I did the Loddon Murray leadership program. That highlighted in me that more could be done to help our communities and rebuild people, farmers, organisations after those tough drought years,” she said. Within the decade, Colleen had been elected to Loddon Shire

Council and went on to serve 16 years in two stints. “The time on council was really enjoyable - again being able to help people in communities, not just in the Inglewood Ward but across the shire. “At Loddon at the time, Craig Niemann was CEO and as a new councillor, I had wonderful guidance from him on performing the duties of councillor.” Colleen was ABC Rural Woman of the Year in 1997, an Australian representative at the 2002 World Congress for Rural Women in Spain and in 2009 her named was added to the Victorian Honour Roll for Women. Colleen now looks back on what was achieved in those years with an unwavering commitment that continues today. The establishment of the Australia Help organisation pro-

vided food parcels and other support to farming families in Loddon, growing across the region and then the nation. “That’s an organisation that’s still going.” Colleen said Landcare and Australia Help were two examples of bringing farmers and their families together, giving material and wellbeing support. She admits that the last three decades have been a crusade for recognition and support of rural communities and “it hasn’t finished”. Earlier this year, Colleen was part of the committee organising a third Women on Farms Gathering (and the second in Inglewood). She was a founding board member of Inglewood and District Community Bank and still sits at the board table.

COLLEEN CONDLIFFE ... OUT AND ABOUT IN THE COMMUNITY

There remain countless committees and organisations where Colleen is a member or another of the eager volunteers when the calls go out for help. And as president of Kooyoora Women’s Network, Colleen and her committee are bringing Loddon women together throughout the year and also establishing the Platform 1 Hub at the old Bridgewater railway station. “The words of Ma when I was a youngster have never left me,” Colleen said. “Our communities in Loddon are wonderful places with so many amazing people who all just want what is best. “It’s team work - my husband Robert and family, the community members on our committees - this OAM is the award for them. I’m still amazed that some one wanted to nominate me .”

14 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022

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

PubLIC NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

in the

MEN

North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has managed an initial flow into Big Lake Boort. The flow will enable the partial filling of the lake over winter/spring. The initial flow has ceased to allow maintenance work in the water supply system, but is intended to resume in mid to late July and be a key milestone for Dja Dja Wurrung (DJAARA) in their journey to become a water manager on Country and support healing of their waterways.

sunday 19/6 12pm BBQ lunch Lucky Door Prizes $200 voucher for a local business

+

Bridgewater Hotel Voucher

This watering will be welcomed through ceremony and returning of spirit to water to begin to heal Country. Additional benefits will be provided, including supporting river red gum regeneration, promoting aquatic plant growth, and providing habitat in the Lake for animals such as waterbirds and frogs. In partnership with the North Central CMA, Victorian Environmental Water Holder and Goulburn Murray Water, DJAARA will ensure that the journey to heal Lake Boort continues through a planned ceremony to welcome the flow in July as well as celebration events for the local community. For full details, go to nccma.vic.gov.au and click on the Current Watering section.

Gold Coin Donation

At the Lions Den rsvp 16/6 to DBNC 5436 8309

Guest Speaker Warren Davies The Unbreakable Farmer Sponsored by Lions Club of East Loddon

DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL SERVICES Boort District Health (BDH) is seeking a passionate and high performing leader to be our next Director of Clinical Services. Are you:    

Looking for your next leaders hip opportunity? Interested in rural health? Wanting to becom e a key member of a progressive and dynamic executive team? Passionate about excellent clinical care and driving continuous improvement?

Boort District Health (BDH) is a small rural health service that boasts state-of-the-art redeveloped facilities opened in 2016. The organisation has provided health care to residents of the Loddon Shire Council area for over 60 years and offers a broad range of services, including:       

7 bed Acute Ward, including one transitional care bed 25 bed Aged Care Facility 2 bed Urgent Care Centre District Nursing Services Social Support Groups and A range of Allied Health and ancillary services to the Boort and wider community. Working with BDH is more than just a job. We value INTEGRITY,RESPECT, INCLUSIVITY, COLLABORATION & EXCELLENCE

As a Boort District Health employee, you will have access to:  Salary Packaging  Career training and development  Flexible work arrangements  Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program  Active and rewarding Social Club  Live and work in an enviable community. www.boort.com.au In this role, you will lead the Clinical team to achieve excellent patient/client and consumer care, with a focus on governance, workforce development and progressive change management. Overseeing the clinical workforce, you will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer, the Director of Medic al Services, the senior executiv e team and the Board of Management to ensure the Health Service achieves key departmental and organisational deliverables. You will develop and maint ain effective working relationships with key stakeholders ensuring strong connections with the greater community and consumers, hence ensuring the highest quality of service delivery and patient safety. To be considered for this exciting opportunity, you will need a Bachelor of Nursing with postgraduate qualific at ions in health, management or leadership highly regarded; professional registration with AHPR A and a solid understanding and experience with NSQHS and ACQ&S standards. An attractive remunerat ion package will be offered for the right candidate. Position description: can be obtained from www.bdh.vic.gov.au Closing Date: 1700 hours (AEST) Monday 20 June 2022 Enquiries to: Donna Doyle, Chief Executive Officer (03) 5451 5282 or Boort District Health at employment@bdh.vic.gov.au

LODDON HERALD CLASSIFIEDS CONNECT

Applications for the above position must be received by the closing date and include:  A cover letter identifying how your experience and capabilities make you the most suitable person for this role using the Position Description key selection criteria as a guide.  Current CV highlight ing relevant experience and qualifications  Names and contact details of at least three (3) suitable profession al referees  Current National Police Check/Working With Children Check  Current COVI D-1 9 and Influenza Immunisation Status

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 difference and help shape our future. Kindergarten Activity Group Leader – ref.J/160  Part-time position – 32 hours per week  AGL46/523.1 - $26.74 per hour plus employer superannuation  Work across all kindergartens in our beautiful Shire Community Care Workers – ref.J/102 and J/105  Casual and part-time positions  Band 3 - $28.64 per hour ($35.80 for casuals inclusive of loading) Early Childhood Educator – ref.no J/123  Casual positions at all kindergartens  ECEC1.1 - $29.75 (inclusive of casual loading) Early Childhood Teacher – ref.no J/124  Casual positions at all kindergartens  ECTC1.1 - $40.05 (inclusive of casual loading) Applications for the positions above will be assessed as they are received. Applications for the position above will close on Monday 13 June 2022 at 5pm. For further information, including a detailed position description and details on how to apply, please visit Council’s website www.loddon.vic. gov.au or contact Council’s Organisational Development Unit on (03) 5494 1202.

Join our Team Are you looking for a new EXCITING opportunity within the health industry? Join our vibrant and supportive multidisciplinary team. IDHS provides Acute Care, Transitional Care, Residential Aged Care and Community Outpatient programs. These positions will allow you to work across a range of settings with ample opportunities for the growth and development of the service across the Loddon Shire. IDHS invites applications employment opportunities:-

for

the

following

• Social Worker/Mental Health Worker • Speech Pathologist • Registered Nurse • Enrolled Nurse • Health Care Worker • Food & Domestic Assistant To view the full details of the position and how to apply, please visit https://www.idhs.vic.gov.au/positions-vacant

WANTED TO buY WANTED TO BUY Old bottles with town or company names. Marble bottles, Ginger Beer, Milk Bottles, Soda Syphons Any old bottles - single items or box lots

BDH is an equal opportunity employer.

CASH PAID ON DAY

All appointments are subject to a satisfactory Police and Working With Children Check.

Phone 0452 264 661

VR4764918

Water for Environment Lake Boort

BUSH

Come along to an afternoon sitting around a fire, enjoying some music, good food and listen to our special guest.

Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022 | 15

LODDON HERALD BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES

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

Loddon HERALD FREE EVERY THURSDAY

Circulating throughout communities in the Loddon Shire Email loddonherald@gmail.com or Phone 0419549743 Managing Editor - Chris Earl www.loddonherald.com.au The Loddon Herald is published by Muso’s Media Pty Ltd, PO Box 1188, Kangaroo Flat, 3555, and printed for the publishers by Newsprinters Pty Ltd McKoy Street, West Wodonga, VIC 3690 Responsibility for election comment is accept by the editor Chris Earl of 8 Holland Court Kangaroo Flat 3555

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16 | Loddon HERALD Thursday June 16, 2022

SPORT

McDougal takes lead after B Grade round

MUCH cooler conditions greeted the slightly smaller field who contested Saturday’s second round of the Boort club’s championships. As the wind picked up, there was only one player who managed to play to his handicap in the end, and so Andrew Kane’s nett 71 was good enough to take out the event of the day. Runner up on nett 74 was the ever- improving Graham Ball, with Alister McDougal and Hamish Lanyon rounding out the ball run winners. The only men to claim nearest the pin prizes this week were Alister and Andrew with two each, while Di Johnson’s impressive second shot on the eighth on Wednesday being one of the best so far this year.

In the championships, Andrew’s 69 and 68 off the stick has him well clear of Shayne Morris in A Grade, while Alister holds a commanding lead in B Grade over Kevin Linehan in second. In the Weaver Cup, Andrew and Alister are currently heading the list, but if they both win their respective grade events, it will be left to Graham Ball and last year’s winner, Shayne Morris, to battle it out.

INGLEWOOD A very enthusiastic group of players braved the blustery Sunday weather to post some quite reasonable scores given the trying conditions. Winner on the day was David (never misses a putt) Vanston

with 36 stableford points, on a countback from Will (missed a few putts) Macintyre. Notable plays of the day included Ash McDonald’s awesome birdie on the 16th, and Rob Stranger ‘losing’ a ball when it nested in the top of a tree

MITIAMO Mitiamo Golf Club has released details of its annual tournament, Events will be conducted over five day from June 28 and include the Jean Hellsten Memorial Trophy for teams of three with an associated 18-hole stroke.

BRIDGEWATER Bridgewater’s annual four-ball best-ball stabelford tournament for ladies and men will be played next Thursday.

North Central’s women’s representative side.

Men finish third in championships NORTH Central men’s team has finished an impressive third in the hockey senior country championships played at the weekend. Men played their matches at Footscray Hockey Centre, battling the wind and cold for the first couple of days and were unlucky not to have put a win on the board. They shone on the third day with a draw against the sixth ranked team in A Grade, Ballarat and then won against Ballarat B to finish third in the tournament. The C Grade women’s played at Stead Park in Geelong in a mixed competition alongside the Masters, winning two games, drawing one and losing two of their pool games.

They drew against Geelong in the semi-final and it was goal difference that prevented them from progressing to the grand final. North Central president Angela Poxon said the weekend’s tournament was the the first senior country championships in three years. “Although team entries were well down on previous years, those involved had a great weekend of hockey and fun,” Angela said. “Laura and Corey Harrison did an amazing job rallying past and present players to represent our association, blending youth with mature experience. The North Central teams drew players from all clubs including Boort and Wedderburn.

Alister McDougal was all smiles after completing Saturday’s second round. LH PHOTO

Heritage round honours flag heroes PAST premiership heroes will be celebrated at Serpentine on Saturday. Members of Bears Lagoon Serpentine’s senior flag sides in 1982 and 1992 along with the reserve grade victors of 1972 will be at the heritage round against Mitiamo.

The 1982 victory by a point over Bridgewater has been one of 12 clubs the Bears have won in the Loddon Valley since Bears Lagoon and Serpentine amalgamated during World War Two. They had beaten Bridgewater by a point to win their first flag in 1947

The junior also took premiership honours the same day in 1982 with the seniors successfully backing up the following year. A decade later, Bears Lagoon Serpentine had a 36-point win over Newbridge for the start of a hat trick. The reserves also won in 1992.

The third place men’s team.

WEEKEND FOOTBALL PREVIEWS

Milestone gamers bolster Superoos MITIAMO is expected to have defender Luke Lougoon fit for Saturday’s vital Loddon Valley league clash against Bears Lagoon Serpentine. The clash will be Lougoon’s 100th appearance for the Superoos, lining up alongside Matthew Grant who is expected to play game 150. The experienced duo will give cautious optimism for a rebound after lowering colours at home to Bridgewater before the the Queen’s Birthday weekend break. However, Serpentine is again proving it will be in the hunt for

Loddon Valley Bears Lagoon Serpentine v Mitiamo Inglewood v Calivil Pyramid Hill v Bridgewater, Marong v Maiden Gully fifth spot and with former premiership stars cheering from the sidelines on Saturday, may have the edge at home. Inglewood is a strong chance to return to the winner’s list and keep its finals chances alive when playing at home to Calivil.

The Demons have been disappointing in the first half of the season and while there have been some close finishes, they have also suffered massive blowouts. The remaining matches should go according to the form guide. Undefeated Pyramid Hill will meet a vastly improved Bridgewater over the opening round encounter that saw the Dogs home by 20 points. At home, Pyramid Hill may be challenged but may be too good again. And Marong is simply too polished to risk a loss to Maiden Gully.

Redbacks eye successful roadtrip as games resume NORTH Central matches resume on Saturday with both Loddon sides on the road. Wedderburn will be looking to replicate its season opening run with a repeat win against Wycheproof Narraport. The break has given Wedderburn’s injured list time to prove themselves on the training track tonight before team selection. Although depleted over the past month, the tenacity of the Redbacks has not faltered. Boort faces a tough assignment when the Pies travel to

North Central Wycheproof Narraport v Wedderburn Charlton v Sea Lake Nandaly Birchip Watchem v Boort Donald v St Arnaud Birchip and with the Bulls striding with confidence, coach Andrew Hawker will need to muster every tactic for a solid four quarters. North Central takes another break in a fortnight.

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Fully armed, Woodies’ duo take out state title GEOFF Wilson and Bruce McClymont are the Victorian arm bowl champions. The Inglewood club pair went through last week’s titles undefeated and will now trial for the state team to play in Perth later this year. Geoff and Bruce won the title at Eaglehawk last Thursday, defeating Cobden’s Colin Whiteside and Damien Riches 17 shots to 13. Bruce also made the final 16 in

the singles’ championship while Geoff made it through to the last eight. The veteran of the two, Geoff has been bowling for more than 20 years and is a former Inglewood champion in A and B Grades and has club pairs titles to his name alongside region wins in the mixed pairs (2006) and the 60 and over pairs two years ago. Geoff switched to using a bowling arm nine years ago.

He has previously been a member of the state’s arm bowling team, selected in 2019 and 2020. Bruce, who was club B Grade champion in 2010, has been using the arm for the past four years after arthritis limited some movement. He said the arm acted like a pendulum. “You have to have the right control when releasing the bowl,” he said.

“And you have to practice all the time.” Inglewood secretary Lindsay Kelly said: ”Both Geoff and Bruce are very good draw bowlers on their day.” This Sunday they will join more than 30 other arm bowlers for the state selection trials to finalise a team of 17. “We will be against the state’s best bowlers and consistency will be important to what happens,” said Bruce.

Victorian champions ... Inglewood’s Bruce McClymont and Geoff Wilson. LH PHOTO

Cooper named in club best COOPER Gould was named among Leitchville Gunbower’s best in the Goulburn Murray Junior League under 12 clash against Echuca Green. And among the match highlights was a high mark from Rylan Chislett. Other best players for Leitchville Gunbower, that includes many players from the Pyramid Hill area, were Jasper Hare, Dane O’Connell, Bayly Young, Nate Fountain and Zyden Treacy. The boys are drawn to play Echuca Bombers this Sunday in the 10-team competition. Games are played on Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays.

Day shoots 180 in big final win MATT Day has helped propel Chuckers to the Loddon Darts Association grand final with a superb 180. Day achieved the feat - all three darts hitting the triple 20 in the team’s comprehensive 4-1 win over Roosters in last week’s semi-final played at Steve’s Empire State Hotel Inglewood. In the other semi-final at Wedderburn Bowling Club, Gold Diggers had a tight 4-3 win over

Scullywags. Other highlights of the finals were six tones to Wayne Ford while Bob Montebello and Steve Formosa each shot three. Roosters and Gold Diggers were playing in the preliminary final on Tuesday night. Entries are starting to roll in for the the association’s Gold Fossickers Cup to be played at Wedderburn Mechanics’ Institute Hall next month.

With an eye on the grand final ... Matt Day has a super night out in the semi-finals shooting a classic 180 last week. Matt was quickly congratulated by fellow team members and their opponents and celebrated throughout the evening. LH PHOTO

Could be? Yes trotter has breakthrough IT WAS lucky 13 for Loddon trotter Could Dowitharain at Ballarat on Friday night. The four-year-old bay gelding won the mobile start maiden trot for his first win. Paddock bred by Greg Hargreaves, Could Dowitharain driven by Alex Ashwood finished a whisker shy of six metres ahead in the 2200-metre race. Co-owner Max Higgs said: “Starting from barrier three and showing good gate speed, Could Dowitharain, went straight to the lead, trotted faultlessly throughout and failed to repeat any of his many previous mistakes. Briefly headed on the turn for home, he displayed hitherto unseen fighting qualities to win.” The horse is raced by members of the Hargreaves family including family matriarch and leviathan owner Shirley (who had another winner in Mr Perfect half an hour later at Mildura), Annie and Max Higgs of Bridgewater, Butch Yorston of Korong Vale, Les Chapman of Maryborough, Marcus Kirkwood from Singleton, ex-Wedderburn local Jan Gould and her cousin, Logan’s Shaun McNaulty”. Max said Could Dowitharain was named in honour of the oft repeated meteorological observation of a highly respected Woosang farmer and umpire. He said were scenes of joyful disbelief for the owners when Could Dowitharain broke through on the 13th start for a win. “Just goes to show that miracles still happen,” he said.

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They’re peas in a pod

THE full-on reboot of country football in 2022 has clubs pitching their future with emerging youngsters. Names that have been constants in junior sporting achievements across the Loddon in COVID-disrupted cricket and football seasons. A cohort at schoolmates together, playing cricket and football in the same teams. As Inglewood’s Gabe Nevins and Jaspa Wendels say in chorus: “We’re peas in a pod.” From those pods are players lacing up the boots not once but twice every Saturday, on-ground leaders and key drivers of players in the junior competitions and taking their spot alongside seasoned footballers later in the day in Loddon Valley and North Central league matches. The pitch from clubs is about pathways for the next generation and rebuilding community connection ... and the future of country clubs and leagues at a time when the rebound from 2020 and 2021 has been mixed. AFL Central Victoria has launched a review of junior football structure across four and possibly six leagues after some clubs have been without “third tier” sides for seasons before the pandemic. Loddon Valley this season allowed formation of the East Loddon Rams, drawing players from the areas of three clubs and bringing “home” youngsters who had been playing all their junior football in Bendigo. At Inglewood, Nevins and Wen dels this season signed with the Blues under 18s after playing the majority of their junior football in Bendigo, progressing through the under 12, under 14s and under 16s. The Year 11 Marist College Bendigo students said it was good to be playing again in the community where they lived. “We’d both filled in a few times in the juniors over the years but this is out first full season (with Inglewood), Wendels said.

By CHRIS EARL

Both Nevins and Wendels have been in the best players in all but one match in the first half of the junior season. Nevins has also earned senior selection in seven games while Blues’ under 18 coach Leigh Lamprell says Wendels is pushing hard for a spot in the ones with his name regularly in best players for the reserves. The young Blues say their first focus on a Saturday is playing well and hard in the juniors. “We then come back for the next game ... by the end of the day we’re knackered,” said Nevins. Nevins says he has experienced a big jump in standard in reserves and seniors. “There’s a real difference in strength and skills of players,” he said. Wendels said: “There are bigger bodies to compete with in the reserves (compared with juniors). “The reserves can be scrappier and you have to work hard to get the ball. “But it gives you some confidence, too, that there’s the next bloke to send the ball to.” Wendels and Nevins say they are long-time best mates. “If one of us went somewhere, the other might follow ... a twofor-one package,” said Nevins. Wendels said: “We’re always trying to keep up with each other, helping push each other with a bit of friendly rivalry.” Neither, though, are chasing the goalsticks. Nevins finds he is growing as a midfielder, aiming to win the hard ball and sending it foward. “I don’t mind the middle but I feel very suited to the backline, cutting off the ball and sending it back,” said Wendels. Lamprell said the two were an example of “local kids supporting the local community”. The Inglewood club veteran has seen several youngsters progress through junior ranks over the decades and take their place in the seniors.

Gabe Nevins and Jaspa Wendels ready a night on the training track. LH PHOTO “Jaspa and Gabe are playing some good footy and getting the opportunities ... Gabe has quite a few senior games and Jaspa is not far behind to get his opportunities,” Lamprell said. Lamprell said the key to the future was engaging local youngsters. “Gabe and Jaspa turn up with a smile on their faces and help with the minis’ training,”he said. “It doesn’t matter if there are

Jaspa Wendels and Bridgewater’s Toby Naughton in the Loddon Valley league’s junior competition. LH PHOTO

BACK PAGE: Mason Hocking flies in to spoil Gabe Nevins who is wedged between fellow Inglewood players. LH PHOTO

only six kids, you have something to keep building. “To pull the pin and not field a team ... that’s the easy option. “The juniors helped keep clubs alive during the COVID years and now we’re starting to see the benefits of bringing young players along.” Both Nevins and Wendels were stars of the Arnold junior victory in summer’s Upper Loddon Cricket Association grand final

and during the season stepped up to the senior grade. Playing two games in one day, has been something of habit for the pair for much of the last year. “At the end of the day, we’re happy to have played the extra game,” said Nevins. “If you’ve given your all, you know you have given some something for the team,” he said with best mate Wendels nodding in approval.

Multiple games and heaps of fun for big man Mason

EAST Loddon Rams’ tall Mason Hocking has been tagged as one of the more flambouyant youngsters on the field this season. The 15-year-old, standing at 198cm (6’ 5”) and still growing, has used his aeriel athleticism and energy in multiple games already - the under 18s and appearances with Mitiamo in seniors and reserves. His one senior outing was the tense encounter against Inglewood but even then, his mantra of football fun was to the fore. Hocking said: “Playing a couple of games a day has been tiring but still fun.” And that word keeps popping up in conversation. He says that as a ruckman “it’s fun going up against other teams and trying to win ... doesn’t always happen”. Hocking also said it was great to be playing with the Rams after starting his junior

football with Golden Square. The fledgling side comprises players he knows and that too, he said, was also fun. Rams’ coach Jade Clymo said opportunities for some local players to line up with Loddon Valley sides would not have been possible without formation of the Rams. “Clubs are excited to see these juniors play and they are also excited when they line up in the seniors or reserves in their club jumper,” Clymo said. “As a coach, I’m really proud when they get that opportunity ... that’s a reason for the Rams, to benefit the clubs and without the Rams that would not be happening.” Hocking said: “It’s good to play for the local team and help keep them alive and I’m happy to keep playing for Mitiamo when they ask me.”

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Eyes firmly fixed on game skills THE tight-knit Boort under 17 team is fast on the way to producing the next generation of senior footballers. As Frasier Holland says, the young players are all mates, go to school together and mostly also play cricket together. Holland is one of a trio of key Magpie juniors now getting their chance to pull on the black and white jumper twice in a day. With Tom Potter and Alex Cockerell, Holland is relishing chances to learn skills that will develop his football. “Senior football is a lot quicker, kicks more effective when marking up forward ... but you have to keep up a bit more,” he said. “Not the most mobile of forwards, I’m learning to use my body more. In the juniors, that can make it hard not to give away free kicks.” As a key target in the juniors, Holland already has 17 goals to his name this season. Cockerell is another of the key junior forward targets who has jumped at playing in the seniors. “It’s challenging and I’m learning a lot,” said Cockerell who earlier this year tried out for Bendigo Pioneers with two games in the V/Line Cup under 16 competition. “All the players have something to teach and (being in) the seniors is like playing with a new team, so you always want to have a crack.” Cockerell said after starting the season in the juniors as a backman, he was now playing more up forward and improving

Alex Cockerell game skills. “Being able to kick straight (for goal) was a problem and I’ve tried to improve this” Cockerell also says skills picked up in Pioneers’ try-outs had benefited his developing playing style. “We did multiple drills where you had to think and focus on more than one thing,” he said. “I took up that challenge and brought it back to Boort.” Cockerell says he prefers playing in defence “and make the most of being in the backliner. I love a challenge”. Potter as the veteran of the trio with a senior debut last year, believes he has lifted fitness levels this season and is now better managing two games in a day.

“Physically, I make sure I keep hydrated during the week and also keep the fitness up although the legs are still a bit tight some days,” said Potter. “The difference between juniors and seniors is that the ball movement is quicker, everyone moves quicker and you have to prepare more for bumps from the heavier blokes.” And with greater physical fitness, Potter says he’s also learning to read the play better in senior matches and “watching out for player movement in passages of play”. “But I’m still learning about what’s needed in key roles and out on the field,” he said, The second year senior is making a mark, already named among the Pies’ best when fronting up for a second Saturday game, Even with multiple general byes in the first half of the North Central season, Holland and Cockerell have played on permit with other Loddon clubs. Holland returned to his original club Bears Lagoon Serpentine for a match while last weekend headed to Huntly “just to watch a game”. The big forward had played with the Bears for three years until, as a 12-year-old he ventured to Maiden Gully and was part of an under 14 flag team that included Inglewood’s Gabe Nevins and Jaspa Wendels. Last year he headed to Boort to play with school mates and best friend Potter. Cockerell headed to Inglewood for a junior game on a bye weekend.

Another goal for Frasier Holland. LH PHOTO Holland said there was good connection between the senior and junior sides at Boort, helped by assistant coach Chris Hatcher also with the reigns of the under 17 side. Cockerell and Holland are also keen to see the junior team benefit from their senior experience. With a multiple focus, Cocker-

ell hopes the under 17s can maintain top spot on the ladder and keep “playing well and we stay in front for finals and our skills are on point”. Potter sums up the senior experience the trio is receiving when he says there’s a lot of guidance from players and coaches “keen to help us”.

Coach committed to creating pathways WHEN Andrew Hawker became coach of Boort in the North Central league, COVID hindered initial steps to lifting the Pies on the ladder. But with a group of youngsters proving a tough assignment for other under age teams in the league for several seasons as they progressed through the junior age groups, Hawker has this season put in place pathways for the future. Andrew Hawker said: “I think it’s super important for us to promote youth whenever it’s possible,” Hawker said. “The kids need to feel as though there is a pathway to senior football if they are prepared to work. “Where possible we play them in a block of at least three games and tell them it’s not performance based and they will play the block regardless of how they go. “I feel it just removes some pressure and allows them to just enjoy the experience. Hawker blooded Tom Potter in the seniors last season and “was pretty much just

let play” while also lining up in the Pies under 17 team that went through the season undefeated and only to be denied the shot at a flag by another COVID lockdown. “This year I’m giving him some challenges I think he will learn a lot from,” Hawker said. “One of them is mainly concentrating on where he is and what he’s doing when he doesn’t have the ball. “Fraz (Holland) needed to be challenged because as such a big kid and it’s hard to learn to use your size when your opponent is much smaller. “He’s been really good up forward at times and will only improve with exposure. “And Alex (Cockerell) is very young and underpowered but reads the ball really well. Not unlike Tom in his first year, I’m pretty much just letting him play. “He will play a lot of senior football in the future,” Hawker predicts of .one of the trio stepping up in 2022.

Tom Potter marks for the Pies. LH PHOTO

Loddon HERALD

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Thursday June 16, 2022

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