Mayoral Column 4 March 2019
Published on 04 March 2019
Major milestone for flood restoration
Council’s flood restoration program will reach a major milestone this month with the completion of practical works for the program. The total value of the works is expected to be approximately $23 million.
The completion of works is a significant achievement for the program, which has been made possible through funding via the Natural Disaster Financial Assistance. Administrative components of the program will conclude on 30 June 2019.
Major works have included the restoration of Sebastian Bridge, Appin South Bridge and Dalziels Bridge, and major road reconstruction works on Tandarra Serpentine Road and Rothackers Road.
Major restoration works have also been completed on sections of Pyramid Yarraberb Road and Wilkinson Swamp Road, with Sebastian Road expected to be completed by the middle of this month.
I’d like to acknowledge Council’s works crew and external panel contractors who together have ensured the completion of this section of the program.
On behalf of Council, I would also like to thank the community for its continued support and cooperation, which has also helped ensure the completion of works and goals under the program.
Autumn events a highlight for our Shire
As we move into the more favourable autumn weather (and hopefully start to leave the heat behind), our Loddon region is set to host a number of events.
Firstly this weekend (9 to 10 March) is the Minelab Wedderburn Detector Jamboree. This family-friendly weekend focuses on detector skills, gold panning, live music, town garage sales, a country market and the chance to take home some valuable prizes.
Then on Saturday 16 March will be the inaugural Loddon Valley Food and Wine Expo. Taking place on the banks of the Loddon River at Newbridge, the expo will showcase the region’s gourmet food and wine.
A highlight will be the option to enjoy a three-course lunch prepared by chef Karen Martini (Better Homes and Gardens) and served with local wines.
Live music and entertainment will also feature. For those not attending the lunch, entry is $10 (under 16 free) or $20 for entry, tastings of food and wine, plus a souvenir wine glass.
On the Sunday (17 March), the Boort Pacing Cup promises a wonderful social day (and lively racing) hosted by the oldest continuous trotting club in Australia.
Another personal highlight for me will be the Pyramid Hill Fiesta on 23 March. The fiesta celebrates the vibrant contribution of the town’s multicultural community and includes dance displays, singing, children’s entertainment, live music, and Filipino and Australian country cuisine.
Soon after comes the Eddington Vintage Sports Car Club Sprints, planned for 30 March, featuring vehicles from early 1900s roadsters to classics from the 70s.
From noon on 31 March the Giant Pumpkin Challenge 2019 will raise funds for cystic fibrosis research. Held at Simply Tomatoes, near Boort, categories include decorated pumpkins, best conditioned pumpkin and a separate section for giant specimens of fruit, vegetables and flowers.
On Easter Monday, 22 April, the 149th Rheola Charity Carnival showcases old-fashioned country entertainment, while the Bridgewater Mother’s Day Classic returns on May 12, with courses for walkers and runners in aid of breast cancer research.
For more details on all these events and more, phone the Loddon Visitor Information Centre on 5494 3489 or visit www.loddon.vic.gov.au
Community projects moving ahead
There’s a plethora of community projects happening (or scheduled to happen) around our Shire at the moment and I have picked out a few highlights for this column. I will mention other projects in future columns.
New playground equipment will be installed at Dingee Recreation Reserve and Rheola Recreation Reserve this month. A playground redevelopment will also take place this month at Pyramid Hill (between the tennis courts and the pool), which will include a new barbecue area and shade structures.
Shade sails are scheduled to be installed over the playground at Korong Vale’s Borella Park and also at the Boort Swimming Pool this month.
Works on a new barbecue and shelter to be installed at Progress Park in Newbridge are expected to get underway after the Food and Wine Expo on 16 March. A number of repairs will also take place at Newbridge Hall after this date.
The Pyramid Hill Town Hall is set to receive a power upgrade (including new meter board), helping the hall cater for bigger events.
The Bridgewater Recreation Reserve will have two timber light towers replaced, including new LED lights. Works on the replacement are anticipated to be completed by the end of next month.
Did you know?
The flood recovery program began following a major flood event in October 2016. The flood resulted in 2,237 damages recorded across the Shire.