Predictably, Tim Holding lived up to his dismissive reputation and refused to speak with - or even listen to - the protesters.

When local media questioned him about the protesters, the smart-mouthed minister described them as background noise.

Country Victorians deserve better than this cheek.

They should be acknowledged and listened to by Brumby Government ministers - not dismissed as background noise.

The Water Minister should be consulting and engaging with as many people as possible.

But this is a task at which his government has failed dismally when it comes to water projects.

The minister has chosen to shun the community and sneak into town to meet his buddies at secret times and places.

Premier John Brumby is even more scared of protesters, with his minders last week refusing to confirm his itinerary with the local press.

Perhaps northern Victorians would respond differently if the premier and his minister showed some respect.

They should sit down face to face with people to discuss concerns about the proposed north-south pipeline.

Mr Holding flatly refused an invitation I extended last year for him to attend a public meeting in Shepparton.

And he has adopted an underhanded approach to visiting the Goulburn Valley .

Until the minister makes his visits to the area transparent and agrees to meet the community, he can expect many more rowdy receptions.

WENDY LOVELL,

Member for Northern Victoria Region