Bodgie the black Labrador cools off with a swim at Kialla Lakes as owner Rick throws the ball.
Photo by
Pip Turton
As hot weather lingered over Shepparton this week, reporter Pip Turton ventured outside to see how locals were coping with the soaring temperatures.
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At Kialla Lakes, there was plenty of splashing as Bodgie, a black Labrador, took a refreshing dip in the water.
His owner, Rick, said they visited almost every day during hot spells, as Bodgie’s dark coat attracted extra warmth.
“He loves it — he could swim there all day fetching the ball,” Rick said.
Nearby, a group of young fishermen paddled across the lake in their kayaks, soaking up the final hours of the school holidays.
“We caught a yellowbelly, but lost a big one before!” they called out.
Across town, Tollair Services workers were braving the heat on rooftops, repairing air-conditioning units to help others stay comfortable indoors.
Meanwhile at Cold Rock Ice Creamery on Wyndham St, Issy was serving up icy treats to customers.
“It’s nice working in the cool,” she said.
“When you walk outside it just hits you — it makes me grateful to be at work.”
Temperatures soared to 40.3°C on Monday and climbed even higher to 41.2°C on Tuesday, before easing slightly to 35.3°C on Wednesday.
The heat is set to return, with 40°C forecast for Thursday, 42°C on Friday and 41°C on Saturday, before a welcome reprieve of 26°C on Sunday.
Residents are being urged to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and check in on vulnerable neighbours as the heatwave continues.
Tollair Services tradies hard at work, keeping air-conditioning systems running.
Photo by
Pip Turton
Isabelle Maples is keeping customers cool on warm days at Cold Rock Ice Creamery.
Photo by
Pip Turton
Making the most of the heat with kayaks, fishing rods and smiles at Kialla Lakes.
Photo by
Pip Turton
31°C