Notes from Loddon 10 October 2024

Published on 10 October 2024

Ballot packs are being sent out this week

Ballot packs for the October local council elections are being mailed out by the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) this week.

Due to Councillors being elected unopposed in Boort, Terrick and Wedderburn wards, only residents in Inglewood and Tarnagulla wards are required to vote.

If you haven’t received your ballot pack by Tuesday 15 October, you can apply online for a replacement or call the VEC directly on 131 832.

Loddon Shire Council is still in election period until 6pm Saturday 26 October 2024.

During this time, Council must adhere to the requirements of the Local Government Act 2020 and Council’s Election Period Policy, ensuring all communications remain fair and neutral.

For more information, please read our Election Period Policy here: www.loddon.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/v/4/our-council/plans-and-strategies/election-period-policy-governance-rules.pdf.

Loddon Valley Tourism rolls out Welcome Shop program

Seven venues and businesses across Loddon Shire are set to become visitor information

outlets following the roll out of Loddon Valley Tourism’s Welcome Shop program.

The program will see Welcome Shops become part of a visitor servicing network to support the tourist experience, and complement the accredited Visitor Information Centre in Wedderburn.

Welcome Shops are set to be rolled out at Bridgewater on Loddon Post Office, Inglewood Eucalyptus Distillery Museum, Tarnagulla Post Office, Mitiamo General Store, Pyramid Hill Supermarket, Newbridge General Store and the Boort Newsagency.

Loddon Shire Council CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald said the program would be a great resource for visitors to the Loddon Valley.

“The Welcome Shops will be a great source of knowledge for visitors, and even for locals wanting to learn more about the tourism offerings across the region,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

“The Welcome Shops will also assist in encouraging visitors to explore more of the Loddon Valley, meaning greater visitation across the Shire and visitors likely to stay here for longer periods.”

The Welcome Shops, which will be easily identified by A-Frame signage, will feature a distinct brochure stand, and will provide specific travel information about the Loddon Valley region.

Bridgewater Post Office’s Kylie Hetherton said they were looking forward to being part of the Welcome Shop program.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to promote Bridgewater and its surrounds, as well as the Loddon region as a whole,” she said.

“We’re looking forward to chatting to visitors and locals about the amazing range of things to see and do across the Loddon Valley, while also passing on our local knowledge.”

Mr Fitzgerald thanked the venues and businesses who are participating in the Welcome Shop program.

“Together with the participating venues, Council is looking forward to greater benefit to the visitor, local businesses and the Loddon Shire economy.”

Businesses and venues interested in finding out more about the Welcome Shop program can get in touch with the Wedderburn Visitor Information Centre on 5494 1257.

Loddon Valley Arts Trail

That’s a wrap for the 2024 Loddon Valley Arts Trail and what a fabulous event made possible with so many talented Loddon artists, venues, workshop participants and of course visitors to thank for the success. We hope you enjoyed spending time wandering the arts trail and exploring the creativity of Loddon Valley region.

To watch the highlights reel from over the weekend, head to https://vimeo.com/1016914696/acb33b60a1?share=copy

Cork and Fork to bring the best of Loddon Valley’s food, wine, music and more!

Get ready to experience the ultimate celebration of regional charm and community fun at Cork and Fork Loddon Valley!

Tickets are now on sale for the November event, which will bring together the very best of Loddon Valley’s food, wine and music and more.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Loddon River at Newbridge Recreation Reserve, this unique experience is the chance to savour the local flavours of the Loddon region.

Cork and Fork Loddon Valley will feature over 30 vendors offering delicious, local fare from food trucks to artisan producers, and the chance to sample quality wine and beer from some of the region’s top wineries and breweries.

There is also the opportunity to enjoy a live demo from a local expert on home brewing, as well as presentations and classes offering insights into wine, food pairing and more.

The local Goldfields Music Club will provide a rotating soundtrack of live tunes on the day.

Loddon Shire CEO Lincoln Fitzgerald said Council has supported Southern Loddon Tourism to bring the event to the region.

“On behalf of Council, I’d like to thank Southern Loddon Tourism for helping bring this unique opportunity to the region, which will showcase the amazing variety of local producers in the Loddon Valley,” he said.

“After COVID and then flooding across our Shire, we are pleased to see Southern Loddon Tourism build and develop the concept for a major event such as this, to support local producers and communities, as well as showcasing Loddon Shire’s liveability, to visitors.”

“This is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors alike to truly experience the incredible array of food, wine and local produce that can only be found in our region.”

Southern Loddon Tourism President Norma Sokolowski encouraged people to book their tickets now to avoid missing what would be an unforgettable regional experience.

“Cork and Fork Loddon Valley is a true “choose your own adventure” event, whether it’s sampling the array of food and wine, or enjoying a relaxing and entertaining day out,” she said.

“Bring a camping chair or picnic blanket, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy a delicious and relaxing day out that has something for everyone.”

Tickets are just $25 for general entry, with additional options including a tasting glass, or a premium experience.

To secure your ticket, head to https://southernloddontourism.com.au/cork-and-fork