Feelings of inequity and anger in community, writes David Weaver
AS I write this column, there is a lot of uncertainty around the shire. 
The majority of Loddon, particularly the southern areas, is desperately in need of rain. 
Some areas in the north received a good rain on Anzac Day, which has got most of the crop in, but it’s drying out quickly.
Adding to this uncertainty is the Emergency Services Volunteers Fund Levy which passed through Parliament last week. 
This is a significant concern, as council wrote to Government earlier in the year voicing our opposition to this levy. 
Mayor Cr Straub and CEO Mr Fitzgerald met personally with the Premier to express our opposition. 
This levy will affect all rate payers. When speaking to residents of the Boort Ward regarding this levy, there is a feeling of anger and inequality around the new tax. I certainly didn’t become a councillor to be a tax collector for the state government.
By the time this column is published, the Mayor and councillors will have attended the rally in Melbourne in support of Loddon ratepayers.
Surely in a cost-of-living crisis, making it more expensive to produce food is a backward step. 
I don’t think a state government has ever bitten the hand that feeds it, so hard.
On a positive note, I welcomed news that the Federal Government has pledged $5 million towards child care in Loddon which is desperately needed. 
The north of the shire has been deemed a priority given the lack of childcare facilities for our young families.
Additionally, the new town flood levy in Boort is progressing very well and is an outstanding example of what can be achieved when everyone is on the same page. Loddon Shire operational staff and the contractors are to be congratulated on the works completed so far.
On Anzac Day, I attended the first Dawn Service held in Mysia. 
The service was very well attended, and the organising committee are to be congratulated. Adam Wright’s fly over at Dawn was very moving, as was the fly over in Boort, later in the morning. 
The Boort service saw a large crowd at the hall. Alan Streader playing The Last Post in his 100th year was a highlight of the morning. 
It’s wonderful to see the crowds growing each year to commemorate Anzac Day. 
The Boort sub-branch of the RSL are to be commended.
To the farmers our there looking for rain, I hope you get some soon. 
There has never been a drought that wasn’t broken by a decent rain, so hang in there and look after each other and remember you are not on your own, reach out if you need to.
I would like to wish everyone playing their winter sports, an injury free and enjoyable rest of the season.
David Weaver is the Boort Ward councillor for Loddon Shire