Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 15
riverineherald.com.au
NEED FOR
SPEED always lived life Echuca’s Bryce Lloyd has firmly planted t in the fast lane — his foo used on the road foc s eye on the accelerator, 19 might have ahead. And while COVID, it hasn’t slowed stopped him from racing e is spent in tim him down. Bryce’s spare e cars, until he rac his g the garage, upgradin ce more. Brayden can return to the track on May reports, page 21. Photo: Cath Grey
Local
Sport
Spring-Summer
Summer sport is back
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PORT is beginning to return to normal in Echuca-Moama. The first ball in Goulburn Murray Cricket is not too far away from being bowled. Can Bamawm Lockington United, Echuca, Echuca South, Moama or Tongala perch themselves on the top of the ladder? Or will it be the powerhouse duo of Kyabram Fire Brigade and Rochester who reign supreme again? Bowlers in the Campaspe Valley Bowls Division feel like they’ve got time to make up for after last season’s grand finals were called off.
City of Echuca, Moama, Moama RSL and Rich River will all want to make their mark as the number one club in the twin towns. But you can’t discount Mathoura or Tongala from surprising a few. Echuca Lawn are the reigning champs of the Campaspe Tennis Association and you can guarantee Echuca South and Rich River are going to be hot on their tail. And that’s only the beginning. Find out everything you need to know about summer sport at Echuca-Moama, in this special 16-page bumper edition of Local Sport.
PAGE 16—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
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Your Club. Our Community
We’re good sports at Echuca-Moama’s premier entertainment venue. Experience award winning design, architecture and hospitality. Open from 10am daily. Cafe, Bistro, 3 bars, Bistro Terrace, Players Terrace, full TAB, Sports Lounge, Kids Kave and function facilities second to none. Free shuttle service. FreeCall 1800 806 777. You’ll know you’re on a winner with generous promotions, great membership choices and much, much more. Become a member today, contact Customer Service or visit our website for full details.
ABN 58001046939
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Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 17
6 Shaw Street, Moama NSW 2731. www.moamabowlingclub.com.au
PAGE 18—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
Localsport
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Spring-Summer
Swans ready to make a move THERE is no doubt Echuca South is ready to move its way up the Goulburn Murray Cricket ranks.
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or the past several seasons, the Swans have often been labelled the competition’s easy beats. But after an off-season restructure, the club believes it is ready to bounce back. President Gary Smith said it was an exciting time to be part of the club. “We’ve shaken things up during winter and a new committee has been put in place,” he said. “The previous committee thought it was the right time to step aside and we thank them for everything they’ve done for our club. “I was hanging around the club last year and thought jumping on as president was a great chance to help South get to where they want to be. “Our aim is to create a strong culture and we’re on the way to doing that.” Smith said all the changes that had taken place were not just for the short-term future, but to ensure the Swans would be around for a long time yet. “Every season our goal is going to be keeping building on the foundations we have in place,” he said.
Echuca South Cricket Club president Gary Smith, secretary Rachael Good and vice-president Daniel Stevens with cricket team members Jordan Hutton and Mitch Stevens. Photo: Cath Grey.
“All clubs go through a difficult period at some point and we’re doing our best to emerge from that now. “We’ve recruited well for our A-grade so we think we’re going to be extremely competitive. “There will be four senior and junior teams this year. It’s very important we’ve got a pathway through for all our players. “Results aren’t everything at the end of the day, we just want our players to be enjoying the game.” The club’s new committee has already endured a number of big challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
But attempting to gain sponsorship has been the biggest hurdle. “Everyone is hurting at the moment, so you don’t want to be asking local businesses for large amounts of money,” Smith explained. “We’re a community minded club so we know just how difficult this year has been for people. “We’ve had to find different ways to fundraise money this year and one of those has been through the Toyota Good for Cricket raffle. “We’re grateful to everyone who has bought a ticket so far because it has been extremely helpful.”
At some points in 2020, it looked as if community sport could be postponed for an extended period of time. But when the first ball is bowled this season there will be a massive sigh of relief across the region. “I think even playing is a massive achievement,” Smith said. “We want to move up the ladder and be competitive in every game. A lot of people deserve credit for getting the season up and running.”
“ECHUCA SOUTH CRICKET CLUB”
It’s a great time to start your cricket career
CONTACTS PO Box 867, Echuca 3564 Committee 2020/21 President: Gary Smith Vice President: Daniel Stephens Secretary: Rachael Good Treasurer: Michael Stephens My Cricket coordinator: Chris Stephens Junior Coordinator: Julie Morphett General committee: Debbie Smith, Grady Smith, Jake Toll, Andrew Good Website: www.echucasouthcc.com.au (Follow the link for player registration) Follow us on Facebook
The Echuca South Cricket Club was established in 1953. The club is affiliated with the Goulburn Murray Cricket League, our home ground is located in High Street Echuca South and is close to schools, shops and the CBD. Lead this year by new management; President Gary Smith, Vice President Daniel Stephens, Secretary Rachael Good and Treasurer Michael Stephens, Echuca South Cricket Club committee has worked tirelessly during the off-season working with sponsors, in addition to applying for a number of state and federal grants to ensure that ESCC can provide assistance / support to the Echuca Moama cricket
community as a result of the impacts of Covid-19. One of ESCC’s goals during this cricket season is to support all men, women, boys and girls who want to play cricket, to play cricket. The club has four senior teams, A-grade, B-grade, C- and D-grade, we also have five junior levels – Woolworths Junior & Master Cricket Blast, Under-12s, Under-14s and Under-16s. The club’s senior coach Josh Novoselek and his team Ian Laird, Pud Blachford, Michael Stephens and Shaun Haffenden between them bring years of both coaching and playing experience to the club. The Junior team coaches Grady Smith, Doug Bryant
and Damien Tully with the assistance of Daniel Stephens, Jono Morphett, Mitch Stephens, Taynan Richardson and Glen Sands bring energy and enthusiasm to seek success both as cricketers and good sports people. Our junior co-ordinator Julie Morphett works tirelessly behind the scenes organising our up and coming juniors. Scorecards will be kept this season for junior players, tracking progress of skill development and overall contribution to a team environment. The development of a girl’s cricket pathway is priority as ESCC endeavour to enter a girls’ team for the 2021–22 season. ESCC has been recently appointed members
of the Good Sports Programs and the Australian Sports Foundation. It takes more than winning to create a great club and the focus of ESCC is on teaching sporting culture to all ages and abilities with a strong focus on inclusion and creating a family friendly environment for years to come. If you are new to the Club, or an old friend, feel free to call into the club rooms or check out our contacts page if you require any further information, we would love to hear from you! New players and supporters are most welcome. You can find us on our Facebook page or on our webpage https://www.echucasouthcc.com.au/
Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 19
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Localsport
Spring-Summer
Moama is aiming for success AFTER a long winter Moama is ready to emerge as a Goulburn Murray Cricket premiership contender in season 2020-21.
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hen the NSW-Victoria border slammed shut it sent Moama scrambling just months out from the start of the season. With no guaranteed access from Victoria to NSW for rival teams, the club was forced to look at a temporary move to the Murray Valley Cricket Association for the upcoming season. But then their fortune changed, meaning they can stay in the GMC. “It has been an extremely long process,” Moama president Kirk Teasdale said. “There was a lot of uncertainty for a period but all players were ready to be flexible and play with either competition. “Being flexible is something we’re going to have to do no matter which competition we’re playing in. “We’re very thankful to James Stokes and Jason Turner from GMC for all their support during this process.
“Now we just can’t wait to get out on the field.” Whatever competition Moama is playing in this season, the goal is clear. “We want to play in a premiership, you don’t play the game for any other reason,” Teasdale said. “There’s no use selling our expectations short because that’s not what we’re about as a club. “I think the one-day format will suit us given there is no two-dayers this season. “Picking who the team to beat is difficult because it is such an even competition.” And Teasdale’s hopes remain high despite the club losing some talented players, including Anthony McMahon who has moved to the Bendigo District Cricket Association. “It’s all about next man up,” he said.
Jordan McGregor of Moama celebrates catching out Luke Thompson of Echuca South during the cricket game between Moama and Echuca South last season. Photo: Cath Grey.
Moama faced the prospect of being forced out of Goulburn Murray Cricket ranks this season due to border restrictions between Victoria and NSW. Club president Kirk Teasdale is delighted the situation has changed and they can stay in GMC.
“We’ve got a lot of talented juniors coming through the ranks and it will be great to give them some senior experience going forward.” Teasdale said the club was fortunate to have less restrictions across the border.
“We can do things like open the bar and canteen which is massive for the club,” he said. “We will be welcoming every team to our club and hopefully we can enjoy a great day of cricket.”
B U L C T E K IC R C A M A O M THE
Ongoing success at Moama The Moama Cricket Club will field teams in A, B and C grade this season. Once again, we will have teams in each of the under-16, under-14 and under-12 age groups in season 2019–2020, also for the first time a girls team. Our very successful MILO In2cricket and MILO T20 blast will once again run and continue to grow with qualified coaches. To register for these please go to www.playcricket.com.au and search Moama Cricket Club. Registrations now open. Please come and share the success with us!
Our facilities
We boast the best facilities in the district thanks to the support of Murray River Council, our meticulous curator and our hard-working committee. Our brand-new state-of-the-art pavilion, new electronic scoreboard and nets are in full use. An immaculate outfield, well prepared wickets, and superb spectator areas all contribute to the excellent playing and viewing experience. All our coaches are accredited to ensure our junior and senior players are given the best possible opportunity to develop their skills as part of successful teams. We strive to develop boys into men and to create a family friendly environment for all. Where: When: Training: Contact:
Email:
Mitch McMullan
Jack Russell
Perricoota Rd, Moama September to March Senior - Tuesday and Thursday 5pm Junior - U12 Monday 4.30pm, U14 Tuesday 4pm, U16 Wednesday 4.30pm President – Kirk Teasdale 0402 063 705 Seniors – Mitch McMullan (Coach) 0400 566 681 Juniors – Cate Burns 0430 148 198 Girls Cricket - Marcus Maher 0427 936 537 moamacricket@hotmail.com
PAGE 20—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
Localsport
riverineherald.com.au
Spring-Summer
Girls go from strength to strength THE next Ellyse Perry or Meg Lanning may well be here in Echuca-Moama.
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ith Goulburn Murray Cricket’s junior girls competition going from strength to strength every season, there is every possibility we could one day see a junior player in the green and gold. While the 2020–21 season might look a little different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you can expect the players will be keen to get out on the field. For many — most notably the Victorianbased players — the winter months meant they were twiddling their thumbs as only limited community sport was able to be played. But it is now all looking up. GMC junior co-ordinator Marcus Maher said he was excited to see what the season ahead could bring. “I think we’ve got a really good foundation in place, which we want to continue building on,” he said. “Giving the girls their own competition is really important because it allows teams to develop as a group. “After speaking to some of the coaches from last season, they talk really highly
about how their players had improved in just one year. “While this season is going to be about improvement, there is also going to be a massive focus on getting everyone to play with a smile on their face.” Maher is well aware not everyone will have the ability to earn representative selection and that’s why he says it is important for GMC to continuing building on the success of its senior women’s competition. “We’re going to have two grades (A and B) again this season,” he said. “A-grade is a little more serious and B-grade has games with modified rules. It’s important we offer something for everyone because you want to keep attracting new players to the game. “We want all of our players to strive to play at the highest level they possibly can.” Representative cricket could also be on the agenda for the most talented players in the competition later in the season.
Despite Senior Country Week being called off, the junior competition appears likely to go ahead. “The plan is for there to be two girls’ competitions — an under-14s and 17s,” Maher said.
“We’re planning on sending teams for both competitions because it would be a good test of our players’ ability. “We’re always looking for opportunities to help our juniors improve their game.”
Echuca and Rochester’s youth girls teams share a smile after a clash between the two sides last year.
PLAY ALL-GIRLS JUNIOR CRICKET AT YOUR LOCAL CRICKET CLUB • • • • •
14 years & under Everyone gets a go Nine a side More action Begins November 2019
PLAY CRICKET.COM.AU
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CLUB FOR FURTHER INFORMATION BAMAWM LOCKINGTON UNITED Jason Turner 0429 131 319 kirstymm@bigpond.net.au
ECHUCA SOUTH Andrew Good — 0419 374 399 rgood40@hotmail.com
MOAMA Cate Burns cateburns76@gmail.com
RUSHWORTH Peter & Kaylene Raglus — 0418 120 497 kayleneraglus@hotmail.com
COOMA Russell Barrett — 0438 942 705 russell@knightskyabram.com.au
GIRGARRE Andrew Medhurst Andrewmedhurst92@gmail.com
NORTHERN UNITED Scott Thompson 0437 798 926 scottthompson9.st@gmail.com
STANHOPE Matt Evans — 0409 014 854 stanhopecricket@gmail.com
ECHUCA Jeff Shannon — 0418 365 683 echucacc@hotmail.com
KYABRAM FIRE BRIGADE Justin Hooper — 0412 909 314 firebrigadecc@hotmail.com
ROCHESTER Brendan Martin — 0419 325 505 allanbypastoral@hotmail.com
TONGALA Travis Johnstone — 0439 789 474 travis@tongalabluescc.com.au
W: gmc.vic.cricket.com.au
E: goulburnmurraycricket@gmail.com
P: James Stokes 0499 720 220
Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 21
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Localsport
Spring-Summer
Lloyd has the need for speed ECHUCA’S Bryce Lloyd has always wanted to go fast.
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ven at 37 years old, hitting the accelerator gives him the same thrill as if it’s his first time. But in recent months, his racing career has been stuck in neutral. In the previous two seasons, Lloyd felt like he had been building to the best form of his life. In 2018 he won multiple trophies, while last year he picked up a second-place overall finish in the under 2L category in the Victorian Improved Production Series. Those performances came after winning the Deniliquin Sporting Car Club series. A promising start to the 2020 season, with a third-place finish at Sandown, had Lloyd believing he was ready to push for top spot on the podium. Then the COVID-19 pandemic struck. “It has been a tough few months but we’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel now,” he said. “When you have something you love taken away from you, it is never easy to accept. “Racing is a bit like an addiction for me because I’m always doing something to do with the sport when I have the time. “A lot of other competitors might have been trying to improve their cars during this time, but I’ve been flat out with my own business.”
Despite putting a lot into his own electrical business, Lloyd has still found plenty of time to fill the motorsport gap in his life. “I’ve been doing some work on my race cars,” he said. “At the moment I’ve got a 2004 Toyota Celica, which I’ve owned for about 11 years, and a Subaru WRX. If I was able to go racing tomorrow the cars would be ready. “Because we do all the mechanical work ourselves, we’re getting set to put a new engine in the Toyota. It will be 300 hp which is a bit higher than the current 180 hp engine. “Making that change should help us be a little bit more competitive with the more powerful cars.” But not all of Lloyd’s efforts have been put into his race cars. “I actually recently put a turbo charger on
Echuca’s Bryce Lloyd in action on the race track before coronavirus restrictions cooled his wheels.
a Hyundai Getz,” he joked. “It might sound a little crazy to the average person but it’s just something you do when you love your cars, you play around with a lot of different things.” Lloyd’s two cars have different handling and suspension set-ups. The Toyota is more accustomed to tarmac racing, while the Subaru is primarily used on gravel. “They are both set up in a way I feel comfortable driving them. “People might think there is a difference switching between the two cars but I always drive them the same.” Racing is very much a family sport for Lloyd, having found an interest in cars through his father Ian — who is one of his major sponsors, Lloyd Sound. “I’ve always been around cars my entire life,” he said. “It’s something I have found enjoyable since I was very young. We used to be involved in ski racing so moving into race car driving has been quite the change.” Lloyd said he was very thankful to his sponsors, who have been extremely supportive of him during this difficult time. They include Riverina Panels, 2 State Electrical and Goodyear Echuca, just to name a few.
Echuca’s Bryce Lloyd races cars as a hobby. Photo: Cath Grey.
“Having the support of those guys is critical,” he said. “It honestly wouldn’t be possible to get on the track without them because racing isn’t a cheap sport. “I’m extremely thankful for everything they’ve done for me. “I think some people forget that not only the racers have been affected by cancellations, businesses have as well because people don’t need repairs done on the cars. “It has been a difficult year for all of us. “We’re all hoping restrictions continue to ease so we can get back to racing.”
ET G O T E IM T R E T T E B O N IS E R THE
T E K IC R C L A C O L IN INVOLVED
Goulburn Murray Cricket
Cricket has been an established team sport for hundreds of years and is one of the most popular games in the world. Goulburn Murray Cricket is dedicated to supporting and improving our local cricket, with an emphasis being placed on developing our junior cricketers. Children playing cricket learn cooperation and other social skills, while building a sense of pride and accomplishment when their team wins. Even adults can enjoy the opportunity to foster friendships outside of the office. Victory is all the sweeter when shared!
BAMAWM LOCKINGTON UNITED Jason Turner – 0429 131 319 kirstymm@bigpond.net.au MOAMA Cate Burns cateburns76@gmail.com COOMA Russell Barrett – 0438 942 705 russell@knightskyabram.com.au NORTHERN UNITED Scott Thompson – 0437 798 926 scottthompson9.st@gmail.com ECHUCA Jeff Shannon – 0418 365 683 echucacc@hotmail.com ROCHESTER Brendan Martin – 0419 325 505 allanbypastoral@hotmail.com
ECHUCA SOUTH Andrew Good – 0419 374 399 rgood40@hotmail.com RUSHWORTH Peter & Kaylene Raglus – 0418 120 497 kayleneraglus@hotmail.com GIRGARRE Andrew Medhurst Andrewmedhurst92@gmail.com STANHOPE Matt Evans – 0409 014 854 stanhopecricket@gmail.com KYABRAM FIRE BRIGADE Justin Hooper – 0412 909 314 firebrigadecc@hotmail.com TONGALA Travis Johnstone – 0439 789 474 travis@tongalabluescc.com.au
W: gmc.vic.cricket.com.au E: goulburnmurraycricket@gmail.com P: James Stokes 0488 720 220
PAGE 22—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
riverineherald.com.au
TENNIS…. give it a shot! Campaspe Tennis Association The Campaspe Tennis Association is a collective of tennis clubs in EchucaMoama and its surrounding district. Competition is played each Saturday during the summer months, October through March.
The competition involves clubs such as Colbinabbin, Echuca Lawn, Echuca South, Elmore, Lockington Bamawm, Rich River and Rochester. Junior teams competition is played Saturday mornings with the children playing in graded competitions from 9.30am.
Senior competition commences at 1pm with teams comprising of four men and four women competing in graded sections. Contact: Sarah Crossman on 0417 578 579
Echuca Lawn Tennis Club 11 Excellent Lawn Tennis Courts Our club offers a well-established, friendly facility set in tranquil bushland. We offer a wide variety of competitions and options to play tennis at any level. Regular Events Saturday teams tennis (starts October), Thursday ladies competition (starts October),
Tuesday twilight tennis competition (Spring and Autumn), weekend social tennis, Friday night junior coaching and round robin events and Wednesday night junior coaching.
Please contact any one of our office-bearers for further information. President: Brian Gledhill 0418 780 142 Coach: Alenka Hubacek 0425 705 174
Annual Tournaments Easter tournament (this event attracts 300 to 400 competitors annually) and ladies tournament.
Echuca South Tennis Club Echuca South Tennis club prides itself on being a welcoming family-orientated club. We have excellent facilities at the Echuca Lawn Tennis Club boasting 11 grass courts. Members enjoy Saturday morning junior and afternoon senior competition with teams in all
grades of the Campaspe Tennis Association. We also enjoy the social aspect of the game with club functions throughout the year. Existing and new members very welcome. Our coach Alenka Hubacek, a former professional tennis player with a wealth of
tennis knowledge, conducts coaching clinics at our courts after school. For any information about the club please contact any of our committee members. President: Daryl Poole 0418 992 056 Coach: Alenka Hubacek 0425 705 174
Rich River Tennis Club The complex at Rich River Golf Club boasts nine floodlit synthetic grass tennis courts. The club’s emphasis is on developing junior tennis both from a competition and coaching point of view. Rich River is a member of the Campaspe Tennis and Goulburn Murray Lawn Tennis Associations played during October–March each year.
Tennis coaching lessons are available all year round with Tennis Australia qualified coach Andrew Crossman. Rich River runs a great Monday night mixed teams competition commencing at 7pm.
President & Coach: Andrew Crossman 0417 587 967 Secretary: Sarah Crossman 0417 578 579 Monday night co-ord: Trina Godfrey 0409 681 646
Rochester Lawn Tennis Club The Rochester Lawn Tennis Club is the last surviving tennis club in Rochester. We have seven showcase lawn tennis courts as well as two new hardcourts with lights. Club facilities include a huge function centre,
CROSSIES LESSON OPTIONS • 45 or 90 minute group lessons. • Prices start from $100 per term. • Private or small group lessons by appointment.
toilets, showers and a fully stocked bar.
President: Karen Taylor 0448 557 139
We participate in Saturday competition in the Campaspe Tennis Association.
Secretary: Shelley Leahy 0429 546 301
Coaching is available on Wednesdays from 4pm.
TENNIS COACHING PART OF HOT SHOTS TENNIS PROGRAM Designed specifically to make learning tennis fun and easy for primary school-aged children.
BOOK YOUR LESSON TODAY
Phone Andrew on 0417 587 967 or email crossmanas3@bigpond.com
Coach: Paul Condliffe 0427 348 756
riverineherald.com.au
Localsport
Spring-Summer
Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 23
Apprentice jockey Rose Hammond broke her leg in a fall doing track work earlier this year. She talks about her recovery and her future in racing. Photo: Cath Grey.
Jockey is racing to prove herself EVERY sport has an element of risk.
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or some, it’s minor — scrapes and bruises, pulled muscles or rolled ankles. For others, it’s far greater than that. Take horse racing for example. On top of the individual risk a jockey takes, there is also a fully grown horse — an incredibly powerful and subsequently large animal — under your control. And like other sports, sometimes things go wrong. Rose Hammond knew this before she got on a horse. She knew it on the morning of May 16 as well. And she still knows it months later. But she can honestly tell you the risks do not matter to her. “I’ve always loved racing,” the 18-year-old said. “I used to go to the races with my dad when I was a little girl. “And from the beginning I fell in love with it and decided I wanted to be a jockey. “I’ve always been around horses, I had horses when I was younger and I did pony club. “I was small so I was suited for the role. It’s just been a lifelong love with the sport, and as long as I can remember it’s all I have ever wanted to do.” Hammond started eventing when she was 12, and worked a job at a racetrack in Cobden when she lived there. After moving locally she got a job with Gwenda and Mick Johnstone, and soon started track riding. “Rose caught on very quickly,” Mick Johnstone said. “We started teaching her out on a pony in the paddock, and once she got the hang of that we took her out on the track. “It comes to hand for some people really quickly, and Rose was one of those people.
Within four months she was able to ride about 14 of our 18 horses. “She’s a natural in the way she rides, very relaxed which is perfect.” A typical day for Hammond now begins at 5.30 am at the Johnstone stable, with riding work, feeding the horses and the like, before getting ready at the Johnstones’ house before heading off to school. There wasn’t even the slightest complaint — she was living the dream. Then came May 16. “It was a Saturday morning, everything was going really well,” Hammond said. “I was on one of the younger horses when another ran past and spooked it and it caused us to both lose balance.” They both went to ground, with the 550 kg horse coming down on top of her. The horse landing caused Hammond to fracture her femur in five places, and to add insult and further injury, the horse’s feet made contact with her as it was getting back to its feet, breaking her nose and giving her a concussion. Despite the injury, Hammond remains upbeat about the incident. “It’s part of the job,” she said. “You just do what you can to stay as safe as you can on the track. Unfortunately, sometimes accidents happen on the track. “I focus on the good side of racing. It’s what I love.
“Naturally there are risks and negative sides to it, but I love it, and I always focus on the parts of it that I love.” Hammond was taken away by ambulance, before being flown to Melbourne for surgery. “They did X-rays as soon as I got there to make sure my back was okay, which it was. Then I went into surgery. “After that, I was really just sleepy,” she laughed. The road to recovery was not an easy one from such a serious injury. “To begin with I was in a wheelchair as I started my recovery,” she said. “I go to physio every week now, and I work on the small things like riding a bike and doing leg work on an exercise ball. “It’s coming along slowly, but I’m getting there. “You definitely want the recovery to be over and get back to normal, but you need to put the work in to get there and that’s what I’m doing.” With the Murray League’s netball season off, Hammond didn’t have to worry about missing netball with Tongala, but her Year 12 studies — which were already impacted by COVID-19 — took another hit. “We were doing online classes earlier in the year, then when we finally got back was when I got injured,” she said. “I missed the term we were in the classroom, and by the time I was ready to get back to the classroom, COVID had us online again. “So I’ve really only done about seven weeks in class which has been tough, but I’ve had my friends with me making sure I was okay, so I’ve been able to get through it.” You’d be forgiven for thinking Hammond would never want to go near a track again after such an injury.
But as people in the industry will tell you, there is nothing like the thrill of a ride. “When you let the horse go, let it into a full gallop and really get its run on, there is nothing like it,” Johnstone said. “Injuries happen, unfortunately we have all copped them during our time on the track, but you don’t think about them. “In those moments of a ride it’s everything to you, you’re so in the moment. “And you could see that with Rose. You could see the thrill she got when she was on the track in a ride, how special those moments were. “And you could tell she’d be back soon.” For now, patrons aren’t allowed at the racecourse, but once they are, Hammond will be back where she belongs. And will she be getting back in the saddle? “As soon as I can,” she said. “I’ve never wanted to be anything else but a jockey, that’s what I want to do. And it’s still all I want.”
PAGE 24—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
RICH RIVER RICH RIVER RICH RIVER GOLF CLUB GOLF CLUB Alive with fun! GOLF CLUB Alive with fun! Alive with fun!
Rich River Golf Club is the home of Rich Golf Club&isCroquet the home of Golf, River Bowls, Tennis Clubs. Rich Golf Club&isCroquet the home of Golf, River Bowls, Tennis Clubs. Golf, Bowls, Tennis & Croquet Clubs. New members - from beginners to New members from beginners advanced - are -always welcome.to New members from beginners advanced - are -always welcome.to advanced - are always welcome. Get involved today! Get involved Contact us ontoday! Get Contact us ontoday! 5481involved 3333 Contact us on 5481 3333 5481 3333
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Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 25
riverineherald.com.au
Localsport
Spring-Summer
Diane Phillips, Kerry McLoughlan and Susanne Riddington have been enjoying Rich River Golf Club in recent months. Photo: Cath Grey.
On course for a great summer GOLFERS in Echuca-Moama have struck holes in one in recent months, with courses in the twin towns packed to capacity.
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ith COVID-19 restrictions in place across Victoria and on the border, locals have had the opportunity to make the most of their local conditions. Echuca Back 9 golf course - which is managed by Echuca Neighbourhood House - has seen its membership already double on last year’s figures. “Our numbers blew out when the border closed,” ENH manager Sarah Peake said.
“It’s been great to see so many people out on the course. Everyone has been so respectful of the rules in place. “The popularity of golf has given our club a massive boost during a tough year.” And according to Peake, the best thing is the condition of the course. “It is looking terrific despite the amount of golf which has been played,” she said. “Our greenskeeper and his staff have done a terrific job, but it also comes down
to the respect our members and guests have for the course. “We’ve been very fortunate with the rain and hopefully we get a bit more in the coming months.” Across the river in Moama, conditions at Rich River are at an all time high, according to the club’s sales and marketing manager Paul Lavars. “The course looks about as good as it ever has,” he said.
“Our grounds staff have done a terrific job to ensure it is keeping up with the demand from locals. “It has been fantastic to see our Victorian members back out on the course. “Hopefully we can welcome back some more visitors from around Victoria and NSW as soon as possible. “I think it is going to be an exciting summer.”
be r m e m ! a P ! e cc A Become an 12 MONTHS
6 MONTHS
3 MONTHS
Full Access Pass
$250
$150
$100
Concession Access Pass
$200
$100
$50
Junior Access Pass (under 16)
$100
$50
$25
CASUAL GREEN FEES
HIRE FEES
Adult ............................................. $15
Push buggies ...................$5
Concession .................................... $13
Clubs ...............................$10
Junior (under 16) ............................ $5
Motorised carts 9 hole ......$15 for Members ....................$10
All Day Pass ................................... $25 Group Bookings of 10 or more........ $13 per person After hours “Honesty System”............ $10
After hours players are asked to place green fees in the box provided.
Motorised carts 18 holes ..$25 for Members ....................$20
ECHUCA BACK 9 Golf Course Corner Eyre & McKenzie St, Echuca P: (03) 5482 6110 E: info@enh.org.au
Proudly managed by the Echuca Neighbourhood House.
PAGE 26—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
Localsport
riverineherald.com.au
Spring-Summer
COVID-19 squashes plans ECHUCA Moama Squash Club members have been unable to return to the sport they love because of COVID-19 restrictions.
T
hey desperately hope that will soon change. Victorian Government COVID-19 restrictions have banned indoor sport and capped the number of people allowed to meet at any given time, meaning squash cannot be held in its long-time home at Echuca College. It has left many long-time players lost at the prospect of continuing to wait for their sport to return. Club president Peter Ferrier said he was continuing to monitor the situation, and hoped courts would be allowed to re-open soon. “We’re keeping a close eye on gyms at the moment,” he said. “When gyms are able to open indoors we think that will start to open some doors to us getting back out there. “We don’t know for sure what timelines are going to look like, but it’s a real
possibility that will come in the next stage of changes where we get to see those kind of changes.” And wouldn’t they love those changes to come as soon as possible. For those who have long loved the game of Jahangir Khan and Geoff Hunt, and all its physical benefits, it’s about so much more than just being out on the court and having a hit. “It’s a social event for a lot of people,” Ferrier said. “People come out and they get their exercise in, they love the games they are a part of, but they also really enjoy spending time around the club with one another. “For some people it’s not only their main form of exercise, it’s also their main social outlet, and people have clearly missed that. “We want to be able to return to the courts for that reason as much as any.”
Echuca Moama Squash Club members have been unable to get on the court during COVID-19 restrictions. Photo by Luke Hemer.
But while the club members have obviously been missing the opportunity to play, they are the first to admit there are bigger things at play than just sport during this battle. “We miss the opportunity, but you look around the state and think to yourself that things could be going so much worse,” Ferrier said. “It’s been an incredibly tough time for so many people, being isolated away and losing the opportunity to do things they love.
“We aren’t alone in this, we are one of many who have had to struggle through it all. “We want to get back out there, it would be fantastic for all of us as members and players in the sport, but we also want things to be safe. “We want people to be safe in the community, to be able to play with confidence, and we understand how important it is going to be in order to get things running again.”
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Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 27
riverineherald.com.au
Localsport
Spring-Summer
Success on and off the greens WHEN Pat Schram picked up a bowl for the first time it felt like a foreign object.
City of Echuca Bowling Club’s Pat Schram. Photo: Cath Grey.
I
t wasn’t just a new sport; she was doing the opposite of what she used to. Schram had always played left-handed when she was involved in badminton, netball and tennis. But with her dominant hand in plaster the then 30-year-old had to learn to bowl with her right. She would continue to develop her game for the next two years, but then she decided the sport just wasn’t right for her at the time. It wasn’t until 20 years later Schram would pick up a bowl and play competitively again. Since then she hasn’t looked back, taking her game to another level after arriving at the City of Echuca Bowling Club 12 years ago. “I came to the club through a mutual connection in Phillip Thorn who I’m very good friends with,” Schram said. “Once I came to the club it didn’t take long for me to re-discover my competitive
streak because I am very passionate about what I do. “Some people might think bowls is an easy sport, but it is anything but. You spend a lot of time standing there concentrating on what is happening. “It is a very tactical game.” Along the way, Schram has been able to pick up various trophies as an individual and as part of a team. She is still currently in the final 16 of the state singles and won the City of Echuca club championship in 2018. But her proudest achievement is winning the Campaspe Valley Bowls Division (CVBD) mid-week pennant competition four times. “The team events are always the best to win because you are doing it with your friends. “I do enjoy the individual victories, but I think the team ones will always have an extra special feeling. “And when you’re winning with your local club it makes you proud to represent them.”
WORKWEAR FROM THE
BEST BRANDS PROUD SUPPORTERS OF LOCAL SPORT WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY
For all of her success on the greens, Schram has arguably had more off it in several different roles. She has served on the CVBD committee and is currently in her fourth year as president at City of Echuca. “I love my role,” she said. “I do these things because I want to see things get done and I want them to be done well. “Being part of committees is something I’ve always done because I love the sport. “City of Echuca is very similar to your country bowls club with its look and feel. “All of the work is done by volunteers who are contributing their own time. “When I put my hand up for these positions, I aim to represent what our members want to achieve.” Schram also sits on the board of Bowls Victoria and is the chair of the Bowls Victoria governance committee.
And event planning is just another way she has contributed to the sport she loves throughout the years. In just the past 12 months, Schram played a big role in helping organise the Women’s Country Carnival, which would have attracted more than 500 bowlers to the twin towns. But unfortunately, it was cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I’m the chair of the organising committee,” she said. “I get joy out of running events. One of my biggest aims in my roles is to include as many people as possible. “I don’t think there is anything better than hearing people have fun out on the greens together.” In her various roles, Schram has seen firsthand just how devastating the pandemic has been to people’s ability to get out and play the game they love. But she believes City of Echuca has handled the situation magnificently. “Our greenskeeper and treasurer have been absolute gems. “The greens are in great condition and it’s fantastic we now have the opportunity to play more regularly. “As a club we’ve applied for every grant possible and have been spending less. “I think we’re going to be in a good position moving forward.” And if Schram’s commitment is the driving force, City of Echuca will continue to move forward no matter the situation. “We’re always looking for different ways to improve the club. “I would love if we were able to get some funding for a new clubrooms or even renovations on our current one. “We all love the retro feel that it brings, and we don’t want to be going away from that.” If you think Schram is going to be slowing down anytime soon — after recently turning 70 — then you would be wrong. “I’ve just been re-elected to the Bowls Victoria board for a further two years,” she said. “I don’t want to slow down, I want to keep going. “There has been a lot of changes in the past few years and I can’t wait to see where our game is in the future.”
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PAGE 28—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
Localsport
riverineherald.com.au
Spring-Summer
Tips for a safe return to sport IT’S probably fair to say 2020 has been a rough year for everyone. Know your sport and prepare your body Different sports have different injury risks. Sports that require you to sprint and kick have higher risk of muscle strains. Those which ask athletes to jump, land and pivot regularly have higher risk of ankle and knee injuries. Sports that involve pounding the pavement have higher risk of bone stress fractures. If you know the most common injuries in your sport, in most cases you can perform relatively basic exercises to prepare your body to reduce the risk. Did you know that a simple groin strengthening exercise that requires no equipment has been shown to reduce groin strains in soccer players by 41 per cent? Or that a similar type of exercise targeting hamstring muscles in AFL footballers can reduce the number of hamstring injuries by 70 per cent? A targeted knee program that Netball Australia recommends all local clubs incorporate into their team warmups can reduce serious knee injuries by 50 per cent. Most national sporting bodies have injury prevention programs, so look into what yours recommends for you. Echuca-Moama physiotherapist Pat Arnold has good advice for an injury-free return to sport.
O
n top of all the other modifications we have had to make to our lives due to COVID-19, our exercise and sporting habits have changed significantly as well. I have seen a lot less sports injuries in the clinic this year. They have been replaced by sore necks and back as people work and study from home. But as the weather warms up, and hopefully there’s some light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel, people are starting to flock back to exercise and there is hope for team sport returning soon as well. No-one wants an injury slowing them down as they get back on the horse (or bike, cricket ground or netball court).
Please follow my three rules below to ensure you safely return to doing what you love. Know what is required and build steadily The old adage ‘slow and steady wins the race’ does ring true here. A buzz phrase in elite sport strength and conditioning departments recently has been ‘acute versus chronic workloads’. Research across multiple sports has shown that if the amount of work an athlete is doing this week (acute workload) is a lot more then they have averaged over the past month or so (chronic workload) then they are at a much higher risk of injury.
If you are getting back into exercise after some time off, the science says you are asking for trouble. If you charge straight back into your previous running or cycling distances, or rock up to that first punishing pre-season training unprepared, you are at greater risk of injury. The human body is capable of achieving some incredible athletic feats, and can be a robust — almost unbreakable — machine. You just need to give it a fair chance to adapt with time and incremental increases. Work out what you want to be achieving in a few weeks, start at a lower safer level, and progress along steadily until you get there.
Local Sports Injury Experts • Three modern clinics across the region (Moama, Kyabram and Rochester) • 6 full time physiotherapists with a combined over 70 years’ experience (including working with professional AFL and cricket teams as well as Olympic athletes) • Accurate diagnosis of your injury, referral for imaging or specialist opinion if required • Expert manual therapy (joint mobilisation/manipulation, soft tissue techniques, dry needling) • Exercise prescription to rehabilitate your injury and prevent a recurrence • Fully equipped strength and conditioning gym and two Pilates studios No referral required, claim Private Health Insurance rebates immediately using HICAPS Moama Clinic 72 Meninya St, Moama
Rochester Clinic 48 Mackay St, Rochester
Phone: (03) 5480 0860 | echucamoamaphysio.com.au |
Kyabram Clinic 103 Fenaughty St, Kyabram Echuca Moama Physiotherapy
Know your injury history and do something about it That niggly Achilles that flares up whenever you ramp up your running. That sharp shoulder pain you get when you load up on that big first serve in tennis. Those hamstring niggles that have plagued you through your past two seasons of footy. If you haven’t changed anything, why do you think it will be any different this year? It might be time for some professional help. A thorough assessment by a good physio will always find things you can do to rehabilitate, pre-habilitate and manage your body to give you the best chance of success this time around.
Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020—PAGE 29
riverineherald.com.au
Localsport
Spring-Summer
Excited to be playing again EXCITEMENT is reaching boiling point at Echuca Cricket Club.
O
n the eve of the 2020–21 season, the club believes it is ready to take a massive step forward in both the senior and junior competitions this season. Jon Varcoe has been handed the reins as senior coach for both the men’s and women’s competition. It comes after he led the senior women’s A-grade side to a maiden Goulburn Murray Cricket premiership earlier this year. “Everyone at the club is very excited about what’s ahead,” he said. “A lot of people have put in a lot of work in the off-season to put us in a really good position and we can’t wait to execute those plans. “There is going to be a big focus on having fun but we want everyone to improve as players as well.” While Varcoe admitted winning will be high on his list of expectations, he said there were much bigger things at play. “I think the opportunity to get out and play sport is a big win for a lot of people,” he said. “A lot of people endured a tough winter and we understand just how difficult it has been. “We’ve got people who missed out on playing footy and netball. Then there are the people who couldn’t train through the winter months due to the restrictions.
“It’s just nice to have some light at the end of the tunnel after a difficult few months. “A team environment is going to be really beneficial for a lot of people.” back ited to be rs are exc te . ke n c ri so c a ’s Echuca ther this se field toge out on the
Echuca won the Goulburn Murray Cricket premiership last season.
McDonald’s® Echuca & Deniliquin Proud supporters of Junior Sports Now available
PAGE 30—Riverine Herald, Friday, October 23, 2020
riverineherald.com.au
Social bowls
Tuesday - Ladies’Social Bowls & Mens’ Triples Wednesday - Open nominated pairs from 12.30pm Thursday - Ladies’ Scroungers from 9.30am. Mens’ nominated pairs from 1pm $5 green fees, casual dress. Enter your name at The Greens social office, or by phoning the bowls office on 1800 806 777.
Rain, hail or shine The Greens. The perfect place to enjoy a brew, have a roll with friends or host a fun function. Our clubhouse can cater for any occasion what ever the weather. Outdoor BBQ and function facilities that are second to none and much more. See you at The Greens. Open from 10am daily. Never played, or require some assistance? No problem! The bowls department or one of the club’s qualified coaches will be on hand to help free of charge.
Please note: NSW COVID-19 regulations will be in practice.
A 58001 AB ABN 0 104 001 00466939 93
Freecall 1800 806 777 6 Shaw St., Moama NSW 2731. www.moamabowlingclub.com.au