EMERGENCY Services and Volunteers Fund Levy  - a new tax.  Who is really asking for it?
As the conversation continues, escalates, erupts, we are still wondering where the push is coming form to effectively enforce an equivalent of a 24.7 per cent hike on the base line of our rates notices come July 1.
Most would be aware that the State Government is moving on its plan to replace the current Fire Services Levy, that was introduced in 2015 with the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy and councils are forwarded the responsibility to collect. 
This will see an increase to around $5 million paid by Loddon residents, with a big impact on primary producers bearing the brunt of a 154 per cent rise in the amount owed to the state.
There are so many questions unanswered. The Coalition and the crossbench did not support this Bill in Parliament the last sitting week, why is it then so important that this “new tax be pushed through”. 
Two weeks ago I had the chance to ask the Premier just that, with a good robust conversation and the chance for our Loddon CEO to hand Premier Allan a hard copy letter, spelling out the real term on the ground effects, of what this means for ratepayers not just across Loddon but for all of the State and the directed disproportion to our farming community landholders.
At this point no new answers were forthcoming, and we are led to believe that CFA and SES are the main drivers asking for its introduction. 
I am no-way against adequate funding for our emergency service providers, but with a tax put on local council to collect, and the proceeds going straight to State Governments consolidated revenue, it must be questioned about the motive and the end beneficiary. 
Will we see equivalent return on revenue collected spent in Loddon on our most important emergency service responders?
This was top of the list when we sat down with Premier Allan, several other key topics were discussed, and I do have to thank the Premier for her generous time to meet.
Loddon Shire has consistently been at the forefront and leading the way in its representation of our communities, you would have heard me speck a lot about our regional partnerships whether it be Loddon Campaspe, Rural Councils Victoria, MAV and the Murray River group of Councils all of which we don’t let an opportunity pass to place Loddon Shire in the fold of being the strong voice of our people, this is achievable with a strong group of councillors dedicated to leading their communities through change and bring about positivity and prosperity. 
Likewise, the dedication and commitment of the Loddon staff, from the CEO and directors right through to our outdoor crew, is second to none. This makes for a real team effort right across the board.
There is a lot to be grateful for and a lot to celebrate across Loddon and we are all in this together. I am very proud of where I come from and I am very proud to represent all the people of Loddon, I know my fellow Councillors feel the same way.
We take on roles in community, whether it be Progress Associations, community planning groups, Aset 65 committees, Hall committees, sporting clubs, all for the reasons of giving back, providing strong community connection, setting sustainable outcomes and futures for the next generation and to lead the way for the enjoyment of all.
Positive change is a big part of that leadership and with that hard decision making is needed to take the next steps, we all know this, we have all done this and we need to continue to keep an open mind of what possibilities may come next. 
Doing this together strengthens that approach and strengthens community at the same time.
We are all one Loddon community, and we can all enjoy and embrace what is on offer across the region. As we take a short break over Easter, I encourage all to take in what great opportunities and experiences are right on our doorstep.
Stay safe and Happy Easter.
Cr Dan Straub is Loddon Shire Mayor