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Loddon HERALD Vol 1 No 27 THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2021 ISSN 2653-1569
PET FOOD PROCESSING PLANT PERMIT LODGED, NEW JOBS EXPECTED
ABATTOIR BID LEAPS TO LIFE UP TO 10 new jobs could be created within months if plans for a pet meat processing plant at Inglewood are approved.
IT COULD BE LOCAL: Kangaroo meat for pets is becoming increasingly popular with owners, including those who shop at Inglewood IGA where Jalen Hoskin and Shelley Hargreaves were stocking the pet food shelves this week. LH PHOTO
Campaspe Meat Company wants to process 1000 kangaroos a week at the Tarnagulla road abattoirs, unused for six years. Director Loc Rivett said processing capacity could increase to 2000 roos - creating a further 10 jobs - with an increased presence in the Victorian and South Australian roo harvest supply markets. Mr Rivett said if all permits and approvals were received from Loddon Shire Council, Environment Protection Authority and PrimeSafe, processing would start in Inglewood within six weeks. “We just have a little more maintenance to do at the Inglewood site we purchased two years ago,” he said. “Inglewood has a good set up for processing kangaroos - there are two big chillers - and the hanging requirements for lambs and kangaroo is similar. So we can make the change from what it was used for to what we are seeking permission to do.” The Inglewood processing plant, if approved, would be the company’s fifth site in Victoria, adding to Hamilton, Camper-
down, Seymour and Stanhope. It also has a plant in Hay. Mr Rivett said: “We are looking to source locally, across Victoria and also New South Wales and South Australia.” He said South Australia had a harvest quota of one million kangaroos but was only at 10 per cent of quota. “We have had a lot of interest from shooters but until this stage, we haven’t had to room to process more animals,” he said. Mr Rivett said the company supplied pet meat across Australia and also operated five retail stores in the Western District, Melbourne and Seymour. “We could also be looking at a retail presence in the Bendigo region,” he said. “And that’s more jobs again.” Mark and Donna Starr closed Loddon Valley Abattoirs in 2015, ending a local industry started in 1971 and at its peak employing 40 people. When closed, the abattoir employed eight people and supplied Loddon butchers. Mr Rivett said kangaroos would not be slaughtered at the proposed pet meat processing plant “And we hope we can recruit local people with the skills they once used in the abattoirs on sheep and cattle,” he said. The planning permit application has been advertised by council.
2 | Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021
Winter work takes silt from channels
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ACK before lockdown, we called in, as is habit every Thursday afternoon, at one of the local public houses - just dropping of the latest edition of the Loddon Herald of course, or as the wife’s grandmother was known to remark when having half a glass of sherry, purely for medicinal purposes dear. Enough of the justification because it has absolutely nothing to do with the anecdote about to be shared.
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OU see, Kat and the assembled locals were discussing the geometric distortion of an orange and its remarkable similarities with objects in life. We couldn’t possibly publish the photograph of the said orange as extolled by Kat and co, but it did get us talking about those fruits that never made it to the perfections of Adam and Eve and their produce from the Garden of Eden.
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E discovered the reason behind misshapen strawberries - it’s the result of poor pollination. Strawberries are aggregate fruits. They have multiple ovules per receptacle where the fruit is formed. The strawberry receptacle may have up to 500 ovules per berry. You will see these as “seeds” on the outside of the strawberry fruit which are called achenes. Strawberries have both male and female flower parts on the same flower and can self-pollinate. Wind and rain can move pollen within the flower. However this usually does not allow for full pollination of all the ovules. Bees, such as honey bees or bumblebees, are usually necessary to allow for complete pollination. Some flowers actually produce bigger berries when cross pollinated with pollen from other flowers. Incomplete pollination will often result in smaller or misshapen berries.
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F THERE were gold medals being handed out this week for changing the shape of
vegetables, the Olympic hosts would be sure winners. In Japan, farmers of the Zentsuji region found a way to grow cubic watermelons by growing the fruits in glass boxes and letting them naturally assume the shape of the receptacle. The square-shaped watermelon was intended to make the melons easier to stack and store, but because the melons must be picked before they are ripe they’re inedible; the cubic watermelons are also often more than double the price of normal watermelons. Using similar techniques, growers have also created more complex shapes of watermelon, including dice, pyramids, and faces.
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OULD you buy misshapen fruit or vegetables? “Using the word ‘ugly’ to describe unattractive apples or carrots increases the purchase of this kind of produce because it corrects for consumers’ negative expectations of taste and quality,” said Sid Mookerjee, a co-author of the US report — “From Waste to Taste: How ‘Ugly’ Labels Can Increase Purchase of Unattractive Produce”.
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O START planting those fruit trees and become an orchardIst - they say five trees constitute an orchard - and see what shapes come along. Share your stories with Over the Fence email loddonherald@gmail.com
ALMOST 80km of channels have been desilted during GoulburnMurray Water’s winter works program. The $8 million maintenance and capital works program started following the irrigation shutdown in May, GMW infrastructure delivery services general manager Warren Jose said staff had been maintaining and desilting channels at about 50 sites, weed spraying at 24 sites to improve channel capacity, carrying out other maintenance works at about 20 sites, and construction at about 41 sites. “The weed spraying portion of the works has included submerged aquatic weed control, spraying drains, and access and visibility spraying along channel banks and infrastructure, including pump stations, communication towers, outlets and regulators across more than 85km,” Mr Jose said. “Other works undertaken have
included channel bank and gate repairs and bridge works that have also been completed at approximately 34 sites. “Maintaining our channel delivery network is crucial to ensuring the network provides a reliable supply during the irrigation season.” Mr Jose said the next few weeks would be “full speed” to allow channels to be recharged and ready for the start of the 2021-22 irrigation season on August 15. “We have about 16 excavators operating across the GMW footprint at any one time, so we continue to remind the public to take care around any changes to traffic and road conditions near our work sites during this period,” he said. “Our winter works program is a significant investment for the region. By using local contractors, it benefits the local economy by keeping money in our community.”
Video stream screen move LODDON Shire councillors will hit the screen from next month. Not the TV screen or the big movie screen but computer screens of residents wanting to watch future council meetings. Councillors on Tuesday voted to move from an audio-only stream of their monthly meetings to a visual platform.
Cr Linda Jungwirth initiated the move, saying adjoining council areas including Central Goldfields used video for live streaming for their meetings. Cr Jungwirth said streaming was an easy step to improve communication and “bring us in line with what is standard practice” for most areas.
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Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021 | 3
Rural contact wait irks
BECK Douglas fears some people in rural communities may be unfairly left waiting for their COVID test results. The Wedderburn woman last week had to be tested after the Calder Park outbound service station was listed as an exposure site. That Monday morning website alert also meant husband Shane, who had just left for work, quickly turned back to home. Both had stopped at Calder Park on their return journey the previous weekend from Melbourne and checked in using the QR code, both were tested Monday last week, both eventually would learn they tested negative. It was more than 36 hours later before Beck and Shane were contacted by the Health Department. But Beck, classed as working in a priority occupation, still had to chase her result for two days when no notification was received despite multiple calls to the State Government’s COVID hotline. And she says the wait for Shane’s result was longer. “More calls to the COVID hotline and still we hadn’t heard anything by last Friday, so I contacted the doctor and we received a copy of the result,” she said. “Today (Monday), a week later and we still haven’t had a
LEFT WAITING: Beck Douglas says she was forced to chase test results. text message or email from the Health Department.” Beck described the experience as having been a nightmare. “I feel they (government) are concentrating on the big cities,” she said of the lack of contact after being tested and the wait for results. “Everyone is so fearful, no
one wants to put other people at risk,” Beck said delays in contact from the Health Department and the wait for results had made her “feel sick”. The State Government coronavirus website says “you should get your test results within two days of being tested for corona-
Pause button hit on Major new art prize COVID uncertainty has forced Pyramid Hill Progress Association to postpone its inaugural Major’s Vision Art Competition. Organiser Terry Wood said he hoped the new date would be only a few months later than original plans for October. “We felt that with all the uncertainty around COVID at the moment, we would wait until things have settled down and there would be more confidence to run the event,” Terry said. “There’s still that fear of (another) lockdown and that would be a disaster if we had started spending valuable sponsorship money.” Terry said the competition and exhibition had generated much interest
among Loddon artists since plans were announced. “And we have had generous sponsors Bendigo Bank, Catalysts Metals and Paul Carter at the Victoria Hotel in Pyramid Hill - who are committed to helping us get this competition off the ground,” he said. “Once things are a little more stable, we will be able to make decisions and move ahead with confidence.” The competition hopes to promote Pyramid Hill, encourage tourism to the town and raise awareness of the expeditions of Major Mitchell, the first European explorer to climb Pyramid Hill in June 1836.
LH PHOTO
virus (COVID-19). You will usually receive a text message or phone call about your results. Sometimes there are delays and it can take longer.” Maps released last week by the Health Department showed case primary close contacts and red zone permit holders in the Loddon Shire.
A slow exit from latest restrictions VICTORIA’S fifth lockdown in 18 months officially ended Tuesday night. Premier Daniel Andrews made the announcement late Tuesday morning. However, a raft of restrictions will remain, including the wearing of masks outdoors and indoors. School for all year levels resumed yesterday. Visits to homes remain banned, public gatherings can have no more than 10 people and strict criteria will continue for visits to hospitals and aged care homes. Up to 50 people are permitted to attend funerals and weddings - indoors or outdoors. Density limits will apply for hospitality venues and retail. Community sport is allowed but spectators will not be able attend when matches are played The lifting of lockdown and easing of restrictions applies to both metropolitan and country areas Mr Andrews said restrictions would be reviewed in a fortnight.
4 | Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021
Golden new welcome sign
IN BRIEF Forest fire jobs
NEW town entrance signs are being constructed on the Calder Highway at Wedderburn. The town’s development association has welcomed a start on the project, five years after beginning discussions with VicRoads on position and design. President Dale Jackson said the design represented the district’s natural heritage and also featured a miner panning for gold. “They will be distinctly Wedderburn with Mallee fowl nest also connecting to the town’s new street murals,” he said. Dale is pictured (right) with Jake and Billy Elliot who are constructing the signs along with Billy’s other son Dougie. The signs are designed to be safe for motorists and motorcyclists should there be an accident.
Forest Fire Management Victoria on Monday said it was recruiting 300 project firefighter and forest and fire operations officers across the state, including positions based in Inglewood. Applications for the positions were to close yesterday and on Sunday.
National conference LODDON Plains Landcare Network will speak at the online 2021 National Landcare Conference next week. Danny will be discussing simple ways to assess, plan and manage landscape problems for improved farm productivity, and how implementing sustainable agriculture practices can have social and biodiversity benefits.
Passing of stalwarts
$61,000 community group boost TWELVE organisations will share more than $61,000 allocated by Loddon Shire Council under community grants approved on Tuesday. Councillors adopted the first round allocation recommendations that included $7060 for Boort Angling Club building improvements, $6600 for Boort Memorial Hall’s Safety First project that will see fragile and failing power points replaced and
new wiring and $866 for Boort Lakeside Croquet Club to update ageing tables and chairs. Each of the groups will also contribute to the cost of their projects. In Inglewood Ward, Campbell’s Forest Hall committee will receive $1011 to install security cameras after three break-ins in the last 18 months. Inglewood Riding Club will receive $8500 to repair and up-
grade the riding arena to make the grounds useable all year. In Tarnagulla Ward, Arnold Cricket Club has been allocated $4000 towards upgrading the practice pitch and centre wicket, Newbridge Recreation Reserve $5850 to extend the security system and $10,000 for a tennis club shade shelter Rheola Public Cemetery has been allocated $4700 to purchase mowers and Tarnagulla
Golf Club $2225 for new safety screens on four tees. In Wedderburn Ward, the town’s historical records museum will receive $8891 for new heating and cooling and Wedderburn Mechanics and Literary Institute $1980 towards a defibrillator and first aid kits. The first round of this year’s grant program did not receive applications from organisations in Terrick Ward.
TWO Wedderburn stalwarts have passed away. Joan Steel was involved with the CFA and also Wedderburn Community House where she assisted with catering and food share. Shirley Smith was part of the Wedderburn CERT as well as Charlton Ambulance Auxiliary and Korong Hospital Investment Group raising funds for medical services in the district.
Christmas celebration RESIDENTS and staff at Boort District Hall were undeterred by Lockdown 5.0, celebrating Christmas in July last week.
Mysia War Memorial School Centenary All are welcome to attend a free community event for the Mysia War Memorial School Centenary, which will be held on Sunday 10 October 2021 from 11am to 3pm. This will be an informal day, with the chance to talk and share stories. Mysia memorabilia is also welcome to be shared on the day. The event will include an official plaque unveiling and planting of a Lone Pine seedling. Additionally, a souvenir photographic book and a detailed history of the war service of the Mysia WWI soldiers will be available for purchase.
Do you have a child turning 3 or 4 before 30 April 2022? Loddon Kindergartens are currently taking enrolments for their 2022 programs. For more information and online enrolment, please visit www.loddon.vic.gov.au/Our-Council/Forms-and-permit -applications/Online-kindergarten-enrolment
Mayor Cr Neil Beattie Boort Ward 0427 552 468
Cr Wendy Murphy Inglewood Ward 0436 457 170
Cr Linda Jungwirth Tarnagulla Ward 0428 259 082
Please RSVP by 1 October to assist with catering. For more information contact Susan Gould on 0429 927 534 or Wendy Mills on 0403 020 715, or email mysiaschool@gmail.com
Making contact with Council While current COVID-19 restrictions may reduce face-to-face contact with staff at Council offices and facilities, you can still telephone or email us.
Cr Dan Straub Terrick Ward 0429 236 399
Cr Gavan Holt Wedderburn Ward 0408 943 008
For more information and entry forms: www.loddonhealthyminds.com.
WEDDERBURN 41 High Street Wedderburn 3515
SERPENTINE 37 Peppercorn Way Serpentine 3516
T: 5494 1200 F: 5494 3003 E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au
T: 5494 1202 F: 5437 8407 E: loddon@loddon.vic.gov.au
Monday to Friday 8.15am to 4.45pm
PLEASE NOTE: Office currently closed
Drilling locates second high-grade gold zone A SECOND zone of gold mineralisation with high grades has been identified at the Tandarra project, Catalyst Metals told the Australian Stock Exchange on Monday. Technical director Bruce Kay said: “The Macnaughtan Line has emerged as a second zone of gold mineralisation with high grades intersected in both diamond and air core drilling over a strike length of more than 1000 metres. “Further gold intersections at Tomorrow support the presence of repeat structures that could be mined by underground methods.” Catalyst and partner Navarre Minerals Limited reported the final results from a 60-hole, 6764-metre Air Core drilling program on the Macnaughtan and Lawry prospects and an 11-hole, 3800-metre diamond/reverse circulation drilling program at Macnaughtan and Tomor-
row prospects. They said interim air core results on the Macnaughtan and Lawry prospects were reported in April 2021. Drilling activities have ended for the 2021 field season and will resume in December and January after crops have been harvested. “The northernmost and final Air Core traverse of the drilling program at Macnaughtan has returned highly encouraging results, continuing the gold trend 100 metres further north from the earlier results as reported to the ASX. “The Macnaughtan line of gold mineralisation was scheduled for 12 drill traverses spaced 50 to 200 metres apart, over 1000 metres of strike length Assay results to hand confirm extensive gold bearing quartz reef development in the central area, with best results within a 400 metre long zone,” they reported to the ASX.
Hospital appoints acting CEO GREG Pullen has been apppointed interim chief executive officer at Inglewood and Districts Health Service. He took up the role last week and will oversee the local service for three months. Greg is a former CEO of Kyabram Health, West Gippsland Health Service in Warragul, Goulburn Valley Health and Northern Health in metropolitan Melbourne. In 2013, he left the public sector to manage aged care provider Catholic Homes and oversaw its merger with Villa Maria to form Villa Maria Catholic Homes, one of the largest NFP aged care providers in Victoria before retiring in 2017. He has recently completed nine years as a director of the Victorian Institute of Forensicare Mental Health and is currently a director and chairs the audit and risk committee and PCG of Central Highlands Rural Health. The interim appointment was made fol-
Greg Pullen lowing the resignation of Tracey Wilson who had been IDHS chief executive officer for five years. Tracey is currently undertaking a three-month project at Mildura Base Public Hospital.
‘News’ gets window view back IN BRIEF
THREE months after the Boort Newsagency was damaged in an early morning ram-raid, the shop’s windows have been replaced. Lockdowns and waits for materials delayed replacement of windows and other facade repairs. However, staff and customers are glad to again enjoy the visual views of Godfrey Street. Boort Newsagency has a Christmas in July sale running until Saturday.
the way these lockdowns keep us away from each other and contain us to our own space. “There can be blessings in this; we are left with more space than ever to reflect, contemplate and pray. But as the lockdown is extended, we also must find ways to remain connected, caring for and encouraging each other as the church.”
Lockdown special
Recovery hope
THE ANGLICAN Church’s Inglewood parish has kept up contact with a special Loddon Lockdowner newsletter for its congregations. Rev. Darcy Vaughan said: “The challenges presented by these lockdowns have been myriad. One such challenge is
THE owner of an F100 vehicle reported stolen from the old Mysia store hopes it has been found after a possible sighting in Diggers Rest. Vic Kolis also told the Loddon Herald other items reported stolen may have been located, Police said inquiries were continuing.
Borella anniversary marked AUSTRALIAN War Memorial has honoured the anniversary of Borung-born Albert Borella’s bravery in 1918 that saw him awarded the Victoria Cross. Borella led a platoon in an attack to straighten the front line beyond Villers-Bretonneux, from which a major British offensive was to be launched a few weeks later. While ahead of his troops, he single-handedly captured a machine-gun. Then, after clearing a trench and dug-outs, he inspired his men to hold out during heavy enemy counterattacks. The anniversary was marked with special online tributes by the AWM to Borella.
Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021 | 5
PETER PETER WALSH WALSH
YOUR YOUR VOICE VOICE IN IN GOVERNMENT PARLIAMENT are family, friends, colleagues and neighbours $250We POWER SAVING BONUS — but most of all we are a community. DOES MURRAY PLAINS QUALIFY? The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all our lives so looking after your mental wellbeing is essential. It is normal to feel anxious, stressed and fearful during times of crisis.Yes, The Federal is providing support for theconcession mental health and wellbeing of if youGovernment have a Centrelink pension card, Australians as we face the challenges of the pandemic; go to www.headtohealth.gov.au if you a Department of Veterans Affairs gold card or feel like you might need some additional help copingconcession with anxiety andor worry about Coronavirus.
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 July 29, 2021
PIE OF THE MONTH: Meat Pie There’s nothing plain about our meat pies - just loads of meat from Paul our local butcher blended with yummy gravy cooked to perfection by Pie man Mick
... AND FOR A SWEET TREAT Our custard tarts seem to be the go for this month. Come and try one washed down with a Cappuccino or Latte
PUTTING A SMILE ON FACES Well, we are in the middle of lockdown in the middle of a cold winter so what would help you put on your happy face than an exceptional pie from the Pyramid Hill Bakery Cafe. We are seeing loads of happy faces eating our exceptional pies so call in an show us yours. See you soon. Stay safe and well from all at the Pyramid Hill Bakery Cafe.
PIE OF THE MONTH: Pastie This month we would like to shine the spotlight on the humble Pastie. We have two varieties available - the standard pastie which is made with a mix of beef mince, chopped potatoes, carrots, onion and a few secret herbs and spices or why not try our veggie pastie which contains crushed tomatoes, peas, corn, potato, carrot and onion and is suitable for vegetarians. Team your pastie with some tomato relish and mashed potato for a wholesome easy meal at home.
... AND FOR A SWEET TREAT This month we cannot go past our award-winning Vanilla Slice. August is when bakeries across Australia submit their entries into The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph which has been going since 1998 when then-premier Jeff Kennett proclaimed Ouyen as having the best Vanilla Slices in Australia. In 2018 Bridgewater Bakehouse was crowned overall winner of the professional category and again in 2019 - 2020 and 2021 has seen the event cancelled due to COVID, however we consider our slice to be pretty special and have crowned ourselves carry-over champions. Our Vanilla Slice has a nice spread of icing on top of a crisp pastry and filled with a smooth creamy centre and a good hit of vanilla. Our Vanilla Slices are made fresh everyday but you need to be quick as they do sell out. We can also make Vanilla Slice Cakes for the true Vanilla Slice fan.
A BIG THANK YOU Bridgewater Bakehouse would like to thank all our lovely customers for their loyalty and continuous support throughout the lockdowns and we look forward to continuing our great food and service into the future.
Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021 | 7
Late night calamity “While this was going on outside, a scene of destruction was going on within. A number of people went up-stairs, and including rope, tea, kerosene, etc. Just began clearing the place out in a needthen somebody raised the alarm of powlessly hurried and foolish manner, conder being in the store, when all hands imsidering that a brick wall stood between mediately retreated to the other side of these rooms and the fire. crockery ware, the street, believing that several kegs of glass, including decanters, valued at 16/blasting powder were in the place. each, were thrown down the stairs, and “This, however, was not so, there being smashed to pieces, until the ground floor merely a few flasks of sporting powder, was completely covered with shattered which exploded harmlessly enough with fragments. a loud report. During this time the fire “Bedding, which might have been safely had all its own way. Had it not been for thrown out, was tenderly carried away. the powder alarm being raised double the The piano was removed without much quantity of goods might have been saved.” damage, the bannister having to be cut Witnesses said the store was now left down with an axe to make way for it. to blaze away by itself, and the working “The destruction in Mr. Johnstone’s party entered Wylie’s saddler’s shop, conwas, next morning, pitiful to behold. Forstructed of brick, on the south side, on to tunately most of the tanks in the neighwhich the wind was blowing, and in a few bourhood were full, a 6000 gallon tank minutes cleared out everything, even inbelong to a Mr McClean being of good cluding wooden fixtures, service. This, as well as others, was bucketed out by willing hands and applied to the flames. The cause of the disaster was the bursting of a kerosene lamp in Mr Stebbin’s shop. He had closed up the place, and was turning one of the lamps when it flared up. He ran to the other end of the shop for a cloth to extinguish it when it burst, and the flaming liquid was flying all over the place. He rushed out with his books, which he had already packed up Globe Hotel ... rebuilt after disastrous to take home as usual, and fainted town fire in 1893. outside. His stock was worth £2000 “Later on a fortunate change in the wind and was he insured for £1200. A young took place which saved Wylie’s house, it man in his employ names F. Boys, who being a large wooden building. The next slept on the premises, had all his clothes, place endangered was Johnstone’s Hotel, etc, valued at £30, burnt. on the north side of Stebbin’s store. “During the course of the fire there “This is a two story brick building, be- were several injuries including Mr. Johnlonging to a Mr Hunter, of Sandhurst. The stone who was struck a heavy blow on the balcony took fire, and about 20 feet of head from something that was thrown it was alight, when a man named Hugh downstairs.” Grant ascended with an axe, and cut away The detailed reports of two major fires the burning portion, otherwise the whole in a small town help comprehend the sehouse would have gone. verity and loss caused. As historians, we are also given an in“At this place also Messrs McClean, Beckering, Runting, Lucas, and McLaren sight into the community banding together to help in times of disaster. worked admirably.
By KEN ARNOLD
1. Who won Australia’s first Olympic gold medal? 2. What country was to have hosted the 1940 Olympic Games? 3. Who opened the 1956 Melbourne Olympics? 4. Where were the rowing events held that year? 5. Name the Bendigo swimmer who won gold in 1956? 6. How many countries have competed in every summer Olympics? 7. Name those countries. 8. How many new sports have been scheduled for the 2020(21) Tokyo Olympics? 9. Name them. 10. When were the very first Olympics held? 11. What is the moto of the Olympics? 12. What are the colours of the Olympic rings? 13. The Olympic torch is a tribute to the fire that burned throughout the ancient Greek Olympic games honoring which goddess? 14. What was the theme song for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics? 15. Who sang that song? 16. In what year did the Olympic flag debut? 17. What was the punishment for breaking the rules in the ancient Greek Olympic Games? 18. What Royal is an Olympic medallist? 19. What Olympic figure skating team got perfect scores for their interpretation of Maurice Ravel‘s “Bolero?” 20. How many grams of gold are in Olympic gold medals? ANSWERS
1. Edwin Flack. 2. London. 3. Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. 4. Lake Wendouree. 5. Faith Leech. 6. Five. 7. Australia, France, Great Britain, Greece, and Switzerland. 8. Five. 9. Surfing, skateboarding, sport climbing, karate, softball/baseball (re-introduced). 10, 776 BC. 11. Citius, Altius, Fortius – Faster, Higher, Stronger. 12. Blue, yellow, black, green and red. 13. Hestia. 14. Amigos Para Sempre. 15. Sarah Brightman and Jos Carreras. 16. 1920. 17. Public whipping or a fine. 18. Princess Anne. 19. Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean. 20. Six grams.
TWO fires 12 years apart, were destructive and costly for businesses and residents in the late 19th century. That was the fate for the riverside rown of Bridgewater when flames licked and flicked their way through shops and homes. Both started overnight and would have given fright to residents. Reports from the time say that the May 1893 blaze was the most destructive experienced in the town.. It started in the Globe Hotel. Mrs Currie, daughter of Mrs Western of the Family Hotel, opposite the Globe Hotel, saw a glare in the bar window and gave an alarm an hour or two before dawn. Flames from the burning weatherboard building soon spread. Mr Walsh who was sleeping upstairs in one of the buildings heard the crackling of the fire, rushed downstairs and saved another occupant. Condon’s Globe Hotel was rebuilt, it coming under the ownership Cohn Bros, Bendigo when they purchased the Bridgewater Brewery. Mr Roberts was the licensee when the hotel was closed by the Licence Reduction Board at the end of 1908. The destruction and loss would have brought back memories for some residents of a September night 12 years earlier when Bridgewater was thrown into a state of the greatest consternation by the cry several times repeated of “fire.” It was reported that the time that the “the inhabitants, most of whom had retired, rushing forth from their beds they discovered the large brick store, occupied by Mr James Stebbins, was in a blaze, the flames issuing from the just recently closed shutters and door.” “A large crowd of people soon gathered, but at looking at the fire was not likely to effect much good, a party consisting of Messrs Gerrand, Holman, Pleasants, and Samers made for the front door and burst it in, where they found the whole of the interior of the shop and large stock of drapery a seething mass of flames. “About 20 other persons followed, and in a few minutes a quantity of goods, afterwards valued at about £30 were saved,
FEATURES
8 | Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021
Bootcamp helps James weigh up risk, reward NEW generation farmers from the Loddon have attended an Agriculture Victoria business bootcamp. Among them was James Coghlan, of Bridgewater, who said the young farmer event over two days had helped him improve the way of thinking towards farming. “It has helped in the area of business analysis and decision making, therefore hopefully improving our farm efficiency and ultimately our profit percentage,” he said,. “The key thing I took away from bootcamp was that it’s important to have a good quality understanding of the business side of your farm as it can help improve your on farm decision making immensely, giving you the power to hopefully advance at a quicker pace to reach your on farm goals. “Specifically, relating to making good quality numbers backed decisions and improving efficiencies in areas we should and shouldn’t be investing by intricately managing risk versus reward.” James said he wanted to improve the land “I’m lucky enough to farm, specifically assisting in land development and business management to help reduce risk of the volatile nature of the farming game”. And he says the most surprising thing over the two days was finding out how much “we can potentially improve our business with the correct use of some of the quality management tools supplied at the bootcamp”. James says he grew up on the family farm, spending much of his spare time as a young lad out working with the stock or helping where he could with driving machinery around for cropping.
NEXT GENERATION: Young farmer James Coghlan. LH PHOTO “But after the completion of secondary school I had other off-farm aspirations, that being a path into studying engineering in Melbourne,” he said. “Although I was drawn back to the land nearly two years ago now with some newly acquired engineering knowledge hoping to bring a different perspective or mindset into our growing business. “One of my on-farm roles includes the design and manufacture of projects to help improve various aspects of our farming
program, along with consistent maintenance of plant and equipment. “Other than this I assist on many of the day to day tasks of our mixed farming business. James said he had chosen farming as a career, attracted by the variety of daily work and the degree of problem solving with many tasks. “Many of the tasks completed on the farm bring with them a degree of problem solving, which after studying engineering many of the thought processes and
task management skills seem to line up well with how my mind works,” he said. “I can also see the great potential in agriculture in the coming years with great technological advancements, giving us the ability to farm extremely efficiently to get the most out of our stock and land, therefore I thought there’s no better time to come back to the family business and help improve upon what many generations of Coghlan farmers have done before me.” James said.
sold from $300 to a top of $323/ head on estimated weights of 30 to 34kg cwt, pushing the average carcase price close to 900c/ kg cwt.
Sheep numbers were boosted by lines of crossbred and Merino ewes being sold after lamb weaning.
F Moon Pyramid Hill (75) $266, C & S Cox Farms P/L Moama (60) $265, Saxilby Park Past Kyalite (66) $264, RA Rathjen & JM Weaver Colbinabbin (38) $255, S & R Snelson Tongala (25) $252, Sylvia Dorrington Woodstock (21) $252, Figtree Lucerne P/L Koyuga (103) $250, Robin Neilson Baringhup (16) $250, C & J Martin Inglewood (13) $240, Nutbyrne Knowsley (70) $238, M & J Ford Nathalia (64) $238, Matt Moon Pyramid Hill (21) $234, MJ Wiliams Drummartin (17) $230, Mrs L Dingwall Pyramid Hill (23) $230. .
Cattle sales in decline LODDON cattle producers will have reduced options to sell stock from next week. The weekly Bendigo market has been cut to a fortnightly offering as numbers remain low. Last week’s sale had just 18 cattle which Bendigo Associated Stock Agents president Richard Leitch said was well down on the highest offering in the last year of 120. “When I came back to the area 15 years ago, we were offering 800 to 1000 head,” he said. Declining cattle numbers at Bendigo in recent years has seen the traditional Tuesday market combined with Monday’s sheep sale. “Over the last 15 years a lot of people have got out of cattle,” Mr Leitch said., And he said the decline in numbers in recent months had been driven by the feedlot industry. Mr Leitch also said that as a result, higher prices were being achieved at other selling centres. The monthly Ballarat floor sale is offering between 3000 and 5000 head. Buyers were also favouring Echuca and Shepparton for heavier cattle where numbers are averaging 1000. The fortnightly Bendigo market will be trialled for six months.
Stud rams ready for auctions THE postponed Australian Sheep and Wool Show merino ram sale has been moved to an online platform for the second year. Tomorrow’s auction will have 90 rams, including lots from Terrick West Poll Stud. Meanwhile, Loddon studs are preparing for their annual onproperty ram sales. Last year’s sales were able to be held under COVID restrictions. The first will be at Terrick West next week followed during the month with auctions at Kedleston Park, Calivil, and Willera stud at Serpentine.
SHEEP AND CATTLE NUMBERS lifted slightly to 13,000 lambs and 6000 sheep. The lamb yarding had less big export lambs on offer this week, but there was more quality fed lambs in the 24 to 28kg cwt range which attracted strong support from both export and domestic processors. Prices for well finished trade and heavy lambs lifted another $5 to $15/head. However bidding for plainer lambs under 20kg cwt varied, with some secondary types cheaper and others just firm with little restocking or feedlot interest at this time of year. The best example of how quality and finisH affected the market was seen in the Merino section, with the best trade weights with good fat cover estimated at 880c, while plainer and leaner types sold for less than 800c/kg cwt. Eight pens of export lambs
There was multiple sales of heavy lambs from $240 to $290/ head, trending from 900c to 960c/kg cwt. The main run of crossbred lambs in the 26 to 30kg cwt range averaged $270 at an estimated 930c, and the best 24 to 26kg pens averaged $254/head at 957c/kg cwt. Occasional sales did hit on 1000c/kg cwt. But conversely secondary lambs in untidy skins or odd pen lots of a few head weren’t as keenly supported by processors and sold in a range of 800c to 880c/kg cwt depending on breed and quality. Light lambs made from $110 to $165/head in a mixed offering with poor quality affecting some results.
Only a few pens of Merino wethers were available. Prices were dearer, particularly for the best lines of Merino mutton which averaged over 700c/kg cwt. There was a lot of weight in the lead runs of crossbred ewes which sold to $250/head..
CROSSBRED LAMBS Ballinode Rochester (63) $323, OST Moama (47) $320, Pinegrove Farming Pinegrove (24) $315, Maryville Farms Neereman (24) $315, CJ & JA Pollock Derby (10) $315, KJ Micheel Avonmore (47) $308, PJ & LJ Whitehead Bealiba (48) $304, A & R Gough Miepoll (40) $ 300, EJ Clay & E Goers Derrinal (26) $296, GA & ML Treweek Barham (41) $295, A Pogue & K Jones Moama (48) $293, Tarwin Past Co P/L, Pakenham (142) $292, AJ Isaac, Borung (51) $286, KF & BA Cail Kamarooka (23) $285, R & J Lee Narraport (61) $274, Ian Whatley Goornong (81) $273, Peter Webb Bridgewater (79) $268, B &
MERINO LAMBS RJ Plant Manangatang (131) $252, T Trewin Wycheproof (108) $224, Mark Connors Moama (102) $224, T & S Lockhart Berrimal (80) $222, Hugh McKinley Richmond Park (31) $218, Robin Neilson Baringhup (46) $199, K & T Flood Shelbourne (53) $194, Liam Atkins Rushworth (19) $192, N & K Holt Wedderburn (32) $189.
MERINO WETHERS O’Sullivan Trading Elmore (107) $230, McCoy Farming Trust Wehla (127) $229, A Wanderwetering Wedderburn , (48) $210.
CROSSBRED EWES GK & TA Turnbull Bridgewater (36) $234, MJ Williams Drummartin (17) $233, LJ & LJ Demeo Kamarooka (20) $250, Clover Valley Farming Stuart Mill (14) $235, Pinegrove Farming Pine grove (38) 234, PT Howard Goornong (11) $222, GA & ML Treweek Barham (8) $240, D Baker Nullawill (11) WL,LG & RK Boyde Mitiamo (5) $226, D & J Bucknall Moolort (56) $225, G Montgomery Tallygaroopna (30) $225, J Young Alexandra (21) $212. .
MERINO EWES Wooraglen P/L Wycheproof (80) $237, D & KK Barker Nullawil (46) $234, Traverston Farming Logan (60) $230, D & J Bucknall Moolort (91) $223, WL,LG & RK Boyde Mitiamo (24) $215, K & T Flood Shelbourne (22) $215.
grAiN BOORT Grain Co-op prices as at Tuesday.
Wheat - H! $266, H2 $26, APW1 $273, ASW $273. Barley - PL1 $210, SP1 $210, BAR1 $216.50. Oilseed/pulses: FABA! $323. New crop - APWMG: $260 ASW. BAR1MG: $215. ISCCBAR1: $217. NonGM canola: $765 +/- AOF.
Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021 | 9
Loddon HERALD CLASSIFIEDS Deadline - Tuesdays 4pm - Phone 0419 549 743 or email loddonherald@gmail.com DEATH NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICES
EMPLOYMENT
SMITH - Shirley Anne 28/9/1944 - 19/7/2021 Dear cousin of Ken, Ron (dec.), Pat (dec.), Pam, Marlene, Trevor and Judith.
Groundwater allocation in the Mid-Loddon
Rest in Peace, Shirley Anne
LODDON AUSTRALIA DAY COMMITTEE
announced a 100% groundwater allocation
Steel - Joan
Loddon Shire Council is calling for nominations from residents of both Boort Ward and Tarnagulla Ward to fill a vacancy on the Loddon Australia Day Committee. The Loddon Australia Day Committee comprises a community representative from each ward of the Loddon Shire, a Council representative and a Council-appointed administration officer. The position is voluntary.
This is the percentage of groundwater
The committee meets twice each year to, select winners of the Loddon Australia Day Awards and judge entries into the Shire-wide Australia Day competitions.
The GMA extends from Tullaroop Reservoir
Our dear friend and cousin who worked tirelessly for the community she loved. Fond memories. Glenda and Ian (Fizzy) Jackson and family
Steel - Joan The members of the Wedderburn Fire Brigades Group are saddened by the passing of Joan, a well respected and dedicated member as our long standing Communications Officer. Joan will be deeply missed. Sincere sympathy to her family.
RETURN THANKS Glenn Toppin
Applicants will require a passion for their community, demonstrated experience as a volunteer, good communication skills and an interest in Australia Day in the Loddon Shire. Applicants must reside in either the Boort Ward or the Tarnagulla Ward of the Loddon Shire and have time available in November and December to critically assess nominations and award entries. Please forward expressions of interest to Loddon Australia Day Committee, PO Box 21, Wedderburn, 3518 by 20 August 2021.
Copies of contract documentation may be downloaded from Council’s electronic tendering website: https://www.eprocure.com.au/loddon/ Enquiries regarding this contract should be directed to Christine Coombes, Executive and Commercial Services Officer on (03) 5494 1200 during business hours. Expressions of Interest can be submitted via the electronic tendering website, before 9:00am on Monday 9 August 2021. Jude Holt ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CLASSIFIEDS CONNECT
Groundwater Management Area (GMA). licence entitlement volume authorised for use within the GMA from July 2021 to 30 June 2022.
allocation applies to all three management zones – Moolort, Laanecoorie-Serpentine
Community Care Workers – ref.J/102
in the south to Mitiamo in the north. The
and Jarklin. The allocation has been determined in
accordance
with
the
Mid-Loddon
Groundwater Management Area Local Management Rules which is available on the GMW website at www.gmwater.com.au For more information contact Jock Richardson at GMW on (03) 5826 3774
LouiseStaley.com.au
LouiseStaleyRipon
LouiseStaley
NOTICE OF APPLICATION OF PLANNING PERMIT The land affected by the application is located at:
Tarnagulla Road,
The application is for a permit to:
Licensed Wild Game
Inglewood VIC 3517 Pet Meat Processing
5652
Loddon Shire Council Offices 41 High Street Wedderburn VIC 3518. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge. Please contact the Planning Department by calling (03) 5494 1200 or emailing planning@loddon.vic.gov.au if you are unable to attend the office or if you require further information. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority. An objection must:
z
REVELATION
The last book of the Bible is a prophetic vision given to the apostle John 2000 years ago. This book needs to be read and wherever possible understood
Campaspe Meat
You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.
z z
Authorised by Louise Staley MP, 177 High Street, Maryborough 3465. Funded from Parliamentary Budget.
David Preece Company Pty Ltd
The application reference
be in writing state how you will be affected by the granting of the permit be sent to the Responsible Authority at PO Box 21 Wedderburn 3518 or email planning@loddon.vic.gov.au The Responsible Authority will not decide on this application before: 12 August 2021 If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you its decision
Located in a unique and wonderful part of Central Victoria, about 175 kilometres northwest of Melbourne, Loddon Shire is home to over 7500 residents, and supports a vibrant and growing agribusiness and horticulture sector. Our vision is to be a prosperous, vibrant and engaged community and we deliver a broad range of programs and services to enhance the sustainability and liveability for the community. Loddon is now seeking applications for the following positions from highly motivated, enthusiastic, energetic and outcome focused individuals who want to make a difference and help shape our future.
LIBERAL MEMBER FOR RIPON
The applicant for the permit is:
The park is on Crown land with Council appointed as Committee of Management and the park has a solid visitor base established.
has
Shadow Treasurer | Shadow Minister for Economic Development
Facility
Loddon Shire Council is seeking a suitably experienced Caravan Park Caretaker to operate the Wedderburn Pioneer Caravan Park.
(GMW)
Louise STALEY MP
Your kindness and support with cards, calls and social media have been greatly appreciated.
Expression of Interest for Contract 513- Wedderburn Pioneer Caravan Park Caretaker
Water
for the 2021/22 season in the Mid-Loddon
For further information please contact Robina Little, Administration Officer Australia Day on 5494 1200 or australiaday@loddon.vic.gov.au.
Wendy and families would like to thank everyone for their expressions of sympathy and condolence at the very sad passing of Glenn.
PUBLIC NOTICES
Goulburn-Murray
CAREERS AT LODDON
EMPLOYMENT
Casual position Band 3 - $35.80 per hour inclusive of casual loading Location – Shire-wide
Community Care Workers – ref. J/105 Permanent, part-time roles – range of hours available Band 3 - $28.64 per hour Location – Shire-wide
Community Care Officer – ref. J/103 Full-time permanent role with a monthly rostered day off Band 5 - $68,698 to $79,037 Location – Serpentine on commencement, with relocation to Wedderburn as required Applications for the positions above will be assessed as they are received.
Community Development Officer – ref. J/107 Permanent, part-time – 28 hours per week (7-day fortnight) Band 6 - $41.85 per hour Location – Wedderburn Office Applications for the above position will close on Monday 02 August 2021.
Business Concierge and Hospitality Support Officer – ref.no J/108 Fixed-term (6 months), full-time Band 5 - $34.76 per hour Location – Wedderburn Office Applications for the above position will close on Monday 09 August 2021.
PYRAMID HILL NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE Position Vacant - Coordinator Pyramid Hill Neighbourhood House is looking for a dynamic community development worker to continue developing and managing our well established, growing organisation. Classification: NHACE Agreement 2016 Schedule 2B Level 7 pay point negotiable depending on experience. Hours: Permanent Part Time 25 hrs per week over 5 days This challenging but rewarding role provides an opportunity to develop and strengthen a small but vital community organisation based in rural Victoria. The Coordinator is responsible to the Committee of Management for the operation, management and development of the Neighbourhood House and for ensuring that the organisation operates in accordance with the Committee’s strategic decisions, the service agreements with funding bodies and applicable legislation. Experience in managing a community organisation and an understanding of community development principles and skills are central to the role. Applications close Friday 30/7/2021 at 4pm. For a position description and application details please call or email Chairman Bill Quinn on 0427888102 email: billquinn1953@gmail.com
For further information in regard to these positions including a detailed position description please visit Council’s website www. loddon.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Organisational Development Unit on (03) 5494 1202.
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Circulating throughout communities in the Loddon Shire loddonherald@gmail.com or Phone 0419549743
Managing Editor - Chris Earl 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
10 | Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021
SPORT
Youngsters show true grit NORTH Central hockey players have returned from the junior state championships. The 36 youngsters were part this month’s North West Lightning representative teams at the Junior State Championships. They joined with players from Sunraysia and Wimmera associations at the competition held for the first time out of Melbourne. All players had a fantastic week, thoroughly enjoying the experience and pushing their hockey to another level. They played against nine other teams from across the state, including three other regional teams. Many of the teams in the competition play on synthetic turf all the time and are able to train as a team on a regular basis leading up to the championships. North Central president Angela Poxon says the ladder positions of the teams may not have reflected the true grit, determination and achievements that the players showed but they should all be proud of their involvement over the tournament. There were so many positives to take back to club-based hockey where the rewards for the team would be recognised, she said. Madeleine Lanyon, Luke Boyd (Boort), Amali Fitzpatrick and Luca Evans (Charlton) have since been selected to join the Hockey Victoria Under 13 Development Academy, alongside three other
Local hockey players at the recent championships. Lightning players. They will have the opportunity to show their skills over the next few weeks prior to selection for the Under 13 state teams. In the championships, the under 13 girls played against the Bulls in their final match going down 3-0. An amazing experience with many of the girls eligible to be back in the team next year. Thanks to coaches Jess Melsen and Brioni Lahn for their wisdom, guidance and development of our future players. It was amazing to watch the under 13 boys growth, confidence, friendships and skills develop over the tournament. They won the wildcard match against the Eagles 2-1 which gave them the right to play
against the Hotshots for seventh position. Led by coaches Brad Evans and Ian Berry they played as directed, using short passes and creating opportunities to score, winning 3-1. This team only lost one game for the tournament and we are hoping to see more of this combination next year. The under 15 girls played strongly and were unlucky with a 1-0 defeat in their final game against the Eagles. Dale Boyd and Brioni Lahn were positive and enthusiastic coaches developing some great game strategies that will help in each players’ development and strengthen their home clubs. The under 15 boys had earned their place in the bronze medal match against the Flames.
They kept in touch in the first half with some strong defensive skills and had a few opportunities in attack. The 4-0 score line did not reflect the competitive game that was played. Thanks to coach Stu McCleary in his 10th year of coaching a Lightning team for his calm and measured approach and always pushing the boys to make good team decisions in their games. Well done to the under 18 girls who drew in their final match against the Eagles nil all, finishing fifth in the tournament, losing only two games over the competition. Thanks to coaches Sue Wakefield and Jade Chapman for instilling disciplined play and creating opportunities for the girls to push their hockey skills to another level. The under 18 boys who fought hard all tournament and were only a goal away from playing in the gold medal match. Despite the bronze medal match not unfolding as planned, losing 5-0 against the Tigers, the boys continued to attack and create chances to score. Thanks to coaches Ross Evans and Keenan Lucas for their passion, enthusiasm, knowledge and ensuring all players embraced their role in the team’s strategy. With only four players too old to play next year, the region hope the core group returns to set the bar higher.
BUSINESS, TRADES & SERVICES
Lockdown delays grand final LODDON Darts Association is waiting on Lockdown to ease before resheduling the grand final. Preliminary finals were played just before the stay-at-home orders with Gold Diggers defeating Scullywags 4-3 in A Grade. This match was a great one, the result going down to the last game of the night. Both teams lead at some stage throughout the match but Gold Diggers’ Bob Montebello was a major factor in them winning this match. Bob won his three games and pegged out in all too, his highest peg for game was 40 and he hit three of these pegs, Scullywags best player Leo Matthews gave everything he could winning two matches and hitting game high peg of 49. The grand final will be between BCs and Gold Diggers. In B Grade, St Arnaud RSL defeated Empire Staters 4-2. This match was rescheduled as Empire Stater team members had a funeral on the original day but Empire Staters were in for a tough night with Barrie Hallsworth in hospital. Empire’s top player Robert Day tried his best but it wasn’t enough. Rob threw five tons and hit a 23 average for the night, Gail Giles hit the top peg of 45, St Arnaud RSL didn’t do anything magical but were very consistent. The final will be between Chuckers and St Arnaud RSL.
WHERE THEY SIT LODDON VALLEY SENIORS Mitiamo Bridgewater Marong Pyramid Hill Bl Serpentine Maiden Gully Newbridge Calivil United Inglewood
10 10 10 10 9 9 10 10 10
Marong Mitiamo Bridgewater Pyramid Hill Maiden Gully Bl Serpentine Newbridge Calivil United Inglewood
10 10 10 10 9 9 10 10 10
10 0 9 1 8 2 6 4 5 4 3 6 2 8 1 9 0 10
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
1203 1315 1244 1037 872 730 500 349 202
374 538 473 549 664 704 1020 1349 1781
321.66 244.42 263.00 188.89 131.33 103.69 49.02 25.87 11.34
40 36 32 24 20 12 8 4 0
0 1021 264 0 1001 377 0 737 364 0 1008 385 0 590 370 0 426 640 0 305 739 0 202 1135 0 104 1120
386.74 265.52 202.47 261.82 159.46 66.56 41.27 17.80 9.29
40 32 28 24 24 12 8 8 0
RESERVES 10 0 8 2 7 3 6 4 6 3 3 6 2 8 2 8 0 10
THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULED MATCHES: Inglewood v Calivil United, Maiden Gully v Bridgewater, Pyramid Hill v Mitiamo, Bears Lagoon Serpentine v Marong.
NORTH CENTRAL SENIORS Sea Lake Wedderburn Birchip W Donald Charlton Boort St Arnaud Wycheproof N
9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
8 7 7 4 3 3 2 1
1 1 2 4 6 6 7 8
0 1047 342 1 712 475 0 798 414 1 625 549 0 455 705 0 488 757 0 432 800 0 404 919
306.14 149.89 192.75 113.84 64.54 64.46 54.00 43.96
32 30 28 18 12 12 8 4
250.47 279.86 106.37 204.36 106.83 110.70 29.32 16.03
32 30 22 20 20 16 4 0
RESERVES
ADVERTISE IN THE DIRECTORY - $66 A MONTH. PHONE 0419549743
St Arnaud Birchip W Boort Sea Lake N Wedderburn Donald Wycheproof N Charlton
9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
8 7 5 5 5 4 1 0
1 1 3 4 4 5 8 9
0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0
799 319 778 278 501 471 797 390 594 556 569 514 270 921 164 1023
THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULED MATCHES: Boort v Wedderburn, Charlton v Birchip Watchem, Bv St Arnaud, Sea Lake Nandaly v Wycheproof Narraport.
Loddon HERALD Thursday July 29, 2021 | 11
SPORT PART TWO: A chat with Rhianon Gelsomino
Dreams open doors Tell us more about your training and race schedules over the last year. Has there been any adjustment required by COVID? Rhianon: 2020 was greatly affected by COVID. Alex and I were home for 12 weeks which is unheard of for us, with rallies being cancelled weekly. We were really worried about what might be our future, with so much unknown about COVID. Being home for us means no income, but luckily the USA opened back up in June and I was still able to do 11 rallies in six months in 2020 and make it a good year. Our training business OzRallyPro moved to online training during this time period and we made things work the best we could. This tough period also lead to doors opening for me with Travis Pastrana. Travis usual co-driver was British and with the restrictions in place, he was unable to come to USA to compete. This is when Travis contacted me to start working with him for 2020. We did three rallies together in this time and formed a great working relationship, which lead to my 2021 deal, where we are doing nine national rallies with Subaru Motorsport USA. We have done four of these events so far and have five remaining. Six of the nine rallies are counted for the final championship points and Travis and I currently have a great lead. Our OzRallyPro training business is back to normal, where students travel here to Idaho to do one on one training with Alex and I. We started OzRallyPro in 2013 and its been a great way for me to continue my passion of teaching. Alex and I both have very busy seasons with Ken Block and Travis Pastrana and OzRallyPro has also partnered with Dirtfish (a USA Rallyschool). So it’s full steam ahead and back to normal here in USA. The only time you would know COVID exists now is when we fly and are required to wear masks. Unfortunately COVID has meant I have not seen my family in Australia since January 2020. I usually am home five to six times a year and do several events with Brendan. Brendan and I have not rallied together since December 2019. This is has been the hardest part of the whole COVID situation for me. Lucky for FaceTime, I still get to see my family on video.
You’re about to compete in the New England Forest Rally. How does this course
Rhianon Gelsomino and (inset) with Travis Pastrana celebrating another victory. PHOTOS Subaru Motorsport USA
compare with others raced and how are you feeling going into the event? Rhianon: This will be my eighth time competing at the New England Forest Rally. Travis and I go into the event with a focus of winning. Travis has also done this event many times, so our previous knowledge will be very important. It’s an extremely fast rally, with up to four chicanes in one stage, to slow down the top speeds. Precision in our pacenotes will be very important and video homework prior to starting the rally. I will go to Travis’s home next week to do more study, before arriving ready to tackle our fifth event in 2021.
And your season so far how has it panned out? And how are you and race partner placed overall at the moment. Rhianon: The start of the 2021 season really couldn’t have gone any better. Travis and I have won three of the four events and were second in the other event. We have a good lead in the championship and now just need to keep our focus and continue to work hard. Currently to win the championship we need to win two of the remaining five events. Travis and I have both done all of the remaining rallies on
many occasions and know if we work hard and keep the car straight, this championship can be ours.
It’s been a great decade plus as a top co-driver? How much longer do you think the lure will be strong and tight to keep racing? Rhianon: I am now 40 years old and in my 16th year rallying and I see no end yet. This is my love and my passion. It’s me living. I train hard to keep very fit and while my body and mind allow me to compete at the top, I will continue giving my all. My husband Alex is as passionate as me about rallying and while we can both keep doing this amazing sport we will.
And when the days behind the rally wheel are over, what will come next for Rhianon the person and the athlete? Rhianon: I would love to still be involved in rally at a management level. With my experience in the sport, I think I can give great value to any team. I also have my PE teaching, OzRallyPro business or hairdressing, to fall back on. I have many back up plans.
Finally, you’ve certainly made a mark in your sport. What’s the best advice you were given as a young-
ster? And your advice to young people back here at home with dreams and aspirations to achieve in their chosen sport? Rhianon: Chase your dreams and never give up. Remember the easy road is not always the best road. Take risks and try new things. I always wanted to skydive and finally at 40 years old, I ticked this off the bucketlist. Remember that success is never owned, it is rented and the rent is due every day. Don’t be afraid to go away from the normal. I am a woman in a male dominated sport, but this is nothing when you have goals and drive to achieve your ambitions. Wedderburn and the surrounding area is an incredible place to grow up and develop as a young person. Take any opportunity that comes your way, from sport, trades or academics and always give your best. Never make the excuse that I
come from the small town of Wedderburn and I can’t. There is no such thing as I can’t and Brendo and I are both a great example of what two young kids from this small town were able to achieve and will continue to achieve. Many people in the local community are to be thanked for giving me opportunities as a youngster in netball, tennis, running and basketball. I can’t name all but Robyn Vella, Jude Raftis, Susan Lockhart, Jude Holt, Craig Cornwell and many more. And of course my Mum who took me many places for my sports. The amazing thing about Brendan and I rallying all over the world, is that my Dad and Mum also got passports and have travelled, because of our rallying. Our late grandma, Anne Reeves also travelled to events overseas. Rally has opened the doors for our family in so many ways.
Loddon HERALD
sport
Thursday July 29, 2021
Rhianon edges closer to title victory RHIANON Gelsomino is just two wins away from winning the 2021 American Rally Championship. And with five races left in the series, one of those wins could come this weekend when she again buckles up as co-driver with Travis Pastrana in New England. The Subaru Motorsports pair have won three of the four races already conducted, finishing second in the other. In this week’s Loddon Herald, the Wedderburn sporting hero concludes a special two-part interview on her life and love for the sport.
Read her story - Page 11
And matches are back
DREW Chislett prepares for a second stint as Paralympic team photographer following his first games in Rio in 2016 (inset).
FLICK TRIP CAPTURING PARALYMPIC STARS
DURHAM Ox farmer Drew Chislett has his bags packed for the Tokyo Paralympics.
Drew flies out in a fortnight as an official photographer for the Australian team. This will be Drew’s second time capturing the nation’s elite Paralympians in action. He was on board for the last games in Rio de Janeiro five years ago.
But the freedoms of Rio will be a memory when he arrives in Japan. COVID restrictions and compliance will create a controlled and clinical environment for taking photographs. There will be no quick trips between venues this time, Drew says. “Our Paralympians are amazing people and it’s wonderful to be able to support them,” Drew said. “You really do admire their
skill levels and this time with their families unable to attend, it will be even more important to capture what will be one of the biggest moments in their lives.” As a team official photographer, Drew will be looking at the athletes in preparation and in competition. “In preparation, looking for photographs that capture the moment, the nerves, the emotions, the perspectives,” he said. “And then there’s the grind of
athletes making it happen, the emotion of the result, the finish and perhaps the biggest challenge this time, capturing also the atmosphere of an empty stadium.” Drew is hoping he will be allocated the rugby and table tennis events. “I’m always awestruck with the rugby. The strength of the players, the skill ... it’s inspiring.” Drew leaves with the team on August 18.
TUESDAY’S lifting of Lockdown 5.0 has given the green light for North Central and Loddon Valley league games this weekend. While crowds are prohibited, both leagues said clubs and players were keen to be back on the football and hockey fields and netball courts. “All clubs are ready to go,” said Loddon Valley president Simon Tuohey. Both leagues will resume with the weekend’s allocated rounds. In Loddon Valley, the big football match is between reigning premiers Mitiamo and Pyramid Hill. There will also be interest in the Bears Lagoon Serpentine clash with Marong. In North Central, it’s the Loddon Derby with Boort hosting Wedderburn and another top netball clash.