Loddon Shire Mayoral Column 31 January 2025
Published on 31 January 2025
Events across the Shire on the weekend
It has been an exciting start to the year, with all of the events that took place, ranging from celebrations to sporting events across the long weekend. It was great to see local residents and visitors out and about in the community.
I was humbled to attend the Pyramid Hill Australia Day celebration as a guest speaker, where I had the pleasure of also presenting the Loddon Shire Citizen of the Year award to Ian Bartels and the Terrick Ward Citizen of the Year award to Geoff Thomas.
A big congratulations goes out to all of the deserving recipients of awards presented at other Australia Day celebrations held across the shire. Your contributions do not go unnoticed and it’s wonderful to see them recognised by the community.
I also want to recognise the talented students who took part in the colouring, photographic and literature competitions. Well done to all participants and congratulations to the winning and highly commended entries.
A special thank you goes out to the Australia Day Committee, and to community groups and volunteers whose hard work and commitment make these celebrations possible.
If you would like to read more about the Australia Day award recipients, please visit www.loddon.vic.gov.au/News-and-public-notices/Australia-Day-2025-Awards
Flavours of Loddon – Boort
Nolens Park in Boort was bustling with activity on Saturday during the Flavours of Loddon event. The day showcased our region’s food and drink, with local food trucks, wine and craft beverages, along with live performances by Elias Lanyon and Trent Macintosh.
It was wonderful to see families enjoying the sunshine on the foreshore of Little Lake Boort.
Wedderburn Cup - Wedderburn
The Wedderburn Cup brought an exciting atmosphere to Donaldson Park on Australia Day, marking the first harness racing event held at the Wedderburn track? since 2021. It was fantastic to see both locals and visitors enjoying the races, live entertainment from Olly and Gordo, children’s activities and of course the popular Fashions on the Field.
A big thank you to the Wedderburn Harness Racing Club for organising the day. It was a great turnout and I look forward to future racing events in our region.
Australian Masters Water Ski Championships
Bridgewater hosted the Australian Masters Water Ski Championships over the long weekend, attracting some of the nation’s top water-ski athletes. Competitor ages ranged from 10 to over 65, with events across slalom, trick and jump disciplines.
This event complements the upcoming Aussie/Kiwi Challenge-Oceania Junior Championship competition that will take place in Bridgewater on 13 - 16 March 2025, broadcast internationally.
Council’s Tourism team was on site along the Loddon River on Saturday, engaging with visitors and highlighting the many attractions our Shire has to offer.
Applications are open for a variety of community grants
I want to remind community groups, local business and event organisers of the various grants that are available to secure funding for your next community project.
Current grant categories include:
- ‘Welcome to Country’ Funding
- 2024/25 Event Promotion Scheme
- Community Grants Program
For more information, including how to apply and application guidelines, visit https://loddon.smartygrants.com.au/
Goldfields PSA Neighborhood and Policing Forum
Victoria Police invites community members to attend the Goldfields PSA Neighbourhood Policing Forum on Wednesday 19 February 2025. This forum provides an opportunity for local residents and businesses to engage with Victoria Police on important topics, including crime prevention, family violence, drugs and drug related crimes and road policing.
A panel from Victoria Police will lead the forum and audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions throughout the event.
Event Details
- Date: Wednesday 19 February 2025
- Time: Arrival from 5.15pm – Commences 5.30pm - Closes 8.30pm
- Venue: Maryborough Education Centre - 102-192 Balaclava Rd, Maryborough VIC
- There is no fee to register for the forum.
To attend this event, you must register online and present your ticket on arrival.
To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/goldfields-psa-neighbourhood-policing-forum-tickets-1124765165889
If you have any questions about this event, feel free to email CENTRALGOLDFIELDS-OIC@police.vic.gov.au
Welcome Senior Constable Brett Vine
I am excited to welcome Senior Constable Brett Vine as the new permanent police member at Pyramid Hill station. Please join me in welcoming Senior Constable Brett and I look forward to seeing the positive impact he will have on our community.
Telstra 3G Helpline
Telstra has launched its 3G Helpline to provide additional support for customers who need further help with the transition from the 3G due to the network closure. The helpline is staffed by a team of agents who offer personalised assistance for individuals who may be experiencing difficulties.
If you require any assistance, call 1800 990 853 between 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday AEDT or visit www.telstra.com.au/exchange/telstra-3g-network-shutdown--accessing-support-and-transitioning
School Year
Finally, as the new school year begins, I would like to recognise the hard work and dedication of our teachers and staff, who have gone above and beyond to prepare for the year. I wish all of the students and teachers going back to school this week all the best for the year.