Lifestyle1 issue 970

Back to school bonus for local families

Stand Like Stone Foundation hands out a record number of vouchers for 2023

For almost two decades the Stand Like Stone Foundation has been supporting education throughout the Limestone Coast with its Back to School vouchers.

Last week, a record number of vouchers were handed out, bringing the total since the program’s inception in 2005, to more than 12,500 vouchers totalling more than $600,000.

The 2023 allocation was 1000 vouchers at $50 a pop with 40 schools taking advantage of the program that is made possible through the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and generous local benefactors.

Stand Like Stone Foundation CEO Roger Babolka said you could look at the record donation in two ways.

“It is good we have the capacity to do that,” Mr Babolka said. “But it is obvious there are issues out there the community is facing and they do rely on this type of support but we are pleased to be part of the process.”

The Back to School vouchers help students with the purchase of uniforms, books or other equipment needed to get students back to school, basically helping reduce the burden of costs associated with the commencement of a new school year.

The fifty dollar vouchers are distributed to school students, in partnership with local public schools and the program is unique, in that recipient families can choose what they actually need for their children.

Melaleuca Park School principal Erica Hurley said the Stand Like Stone Foundation was an amazing supporter of the school and had been during her time at Nangwarry Primary School as well.

“The support for families is amazing,” Ms Hurley said. “Families are really struggling at the moment, particularly our families.”

Melaleuca Park has a high percentage of families on school cards and support like the Back to School vouchers are essential.

Ms Hurley predicts the vouchers will be spent on school uniforms.

“We’ve just had a change in uniform and the vouchers will help families transition to the new uniform and increase school pride with everyone wearing the uniform.”

Ms Hurley said you can’t underestimate how important

having the right uniform and the right school supplies is in a child’s learning.

“It is important to feel a part of the learning community and gives them a sense of belonging and to take pride in their school community,” Ms Hurley said.

Of the 1000 vouchers distributed in the 2023 back to School program allocation, 240 were cofunded by the foundation and the support of benefactors.

Tax-deductible donations can be made and for every $50 the foundation receives for the Back to School program, FRRR will give two vouchers. This means the value

of your donation is doubled and double the number of vouchers are available to support Limestone Coast students. The community can assist local children by making a tax deductible donation to the Stand Like Stone Foundation at any time during the year for the program – simply follow the links online at the Stand Limestone Foundation website.

Twelve schools were represented at the voucher presentation at Noel Barr Toyota last week with the rest set to be delivered across the seven council areas of the Limestone Coast.

“Noel Barr Toyota has been a support of the foundation since the beginning and that sort of support is greatly appreciated,” Mr Babolka said.

Allendale East Area School,

Gordon Education Centre, Grant High School, McDonald Park School, Melaleuca Park School, Mil Lel primary School, Mount Gambier High School, Mulga Street Primary School, Naracoorte South Primary School, Penola High School, Suttontown Primary School and Yahl Primary School were all on hand to pick up their vouchers at the presentation.

Board members Kate Facy, Donna Jaeschke and Rhett McDinald were also onhand to be part of the voucher handover.

BACK TO SCHOOL ASSISTANCE: The school representatives, Stand Like Stone representatives and long time foundation supporter Noel Barr at last week’s Back to School vouhcer handover.

“...it is important to feel a part of the learning community and gives them a sense of belonging ...”

Erica Hurley (Melaleuca Park Primary School principal)

Always answer when opportunity knocks

Jess looking to inspire children in care to dream big

Jess Tresidder has the world at her feet as she embarks on life after high school. A top ranked student, a university place secured, a resume that includes owning her own business and countless volunteer hours – from the outside looking in, Jess has a picture perfect life.

Firstly, everything Jess has achieved has been due to hard work and secondly, she has faced her share of challenges but has determined to make every post a winner and as she sets herself to start a double degree at the University of South Australia, the product of the foster care system is ready to rise to her next challenge.

After finishing Year 12 among Tenison Woods College’s top 2022 graduates with an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank of 97.85, receiving a Governor of SA Commendation Excellence award and participating in the UniSA Accelerate Program, the 18-yearold is about to start another chapter, moving to Adelaide to embark on that tertiary education opportunity.

Last Friday was World Care Day, the world’s biggest celebration of children who grow up in care, and it proved the perfect time for Jess to share her inspiring story in the hope it inspires other children living in care today to forge their own positive pathways in life.

The theme of the 2023 World Care Day celebrations was ‘Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover, Embrace Our Stories Instead’ and that is why Jess is sharing her

story – even she admits she did not always believe in things working out when spending her formative teenage years with various foster carers in the Geelong district under supervision of the Victorian Child Protection Service.

Living as a child in state care was a significant shift from her younger years spent in Queensland, where she was raised by her mother.

But Jess’ life changed when her family went through a challenging time that led to the intervention of child protection services and she was placed in kinship care with relatives.

“Because we didn’t have much family in the area, that became foster care,” Jess recalled, also sharing the stigma she faced as a child in care.

“People would take a different stance once they found out, probably because there is stigma and stereotypes.”

Jess said she was naïve about how her early experiences in her family home that became dysfunctional differed from her peers.

“I think when you grow up with it, you think not having food in the cupboard or trying to look for a job at the age of nine is normal,” she said. “When you’re a young child, you should be able to be a child and experience those things and be able to fail and try again.”

She also acknowledges living in foster care at a young age took some adjustment.

“That nurturing side (shown by foster carers) was a foreign

concept to me because I hadn’t had a parent figure at the time that provided that sort of care,” she said.

“It’s strange at first but then you realise this is what I should have experienced.”

She urged people to understand children in care do not choose their background or life circumstances and highlighted the transformational change foster carers can make in the life of a child.

“As a foster carer, you have the potential to change their future,” she said. “Foster carers can really help in multiple aspects, even if that is just psychologically.

“I think providing a stable environment can completely change someone’s wellbeing – it sure did for me.”

Jess said prior to being placed in foster care, she experienced negative impacts from a period of instability, with a constant feeling of never knowing what was going to happen next.

“Foster care is being able to provide that stability and it means that foster children really have a chance to focus on the things in their life that they should as a child,” she said.

“It means they can go to school and make friends without worrying about their home life.”

The support of carers proved invaluable to Jess when she moved to Mount Gambier around three years ago and she wasted no time in maximising the opportunities that were presented.

SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

As Jess embarks on her tertiary study, she has been awarded this year’s Community Bank Mt Gambier & District Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to a firsttime tertiary student to supplement their study costs in their first year of higher education. Jess plans to use the local scholarship to undertake first-time tertiary study in that double degree to help cover the costs of residential college accommodation. Branch manager of Community Bank Mt Gambier & District, Emma Horrigan (pictured right with Jess) said Jess was a deserving recipient.“Jess has demonstrated a commitment to her studies and a passion for helping others,” Emma said. “This is another way that our Community Bank company commits to building stronger communities. We wish Jess all the best of luck as she begins an exciting journey toward achieving her academic goals.

The Community Bank Mt Gambier & District Bank Scholarship is part of the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Scholarship Program, with more than 40 Community Bank branches and other partners taking part from across Australia. For more information about the scholarship program, visit www.bendigobank. com.au/scholarships

That led to the then-16-yearold starting work as a youth art teacher, as well as taking on a hospitality job, while balancing her study and launching WildHazelDesigns, partly formed through the creation of personalised keyrings for young people in the care of the Department for Child Protection.

“I saw that I could use the opportunities and the experiences that I had faced to keep moving forward and try new things and make growth a positive in my life,” she said.

“Even if you are in care, you have the potential to create your own path, to create your own future.

“Aim for your goals, even if you think they are not possible, because you will be surprised at what you can achieve.”

For Jess, one of those achievements was securing a $15,000 Business News Australia scholarship in 2021 – recognition of what she was achieving with WildHazelDesigns.

“There is almost this stigma that young people cannot start businesses, that you need experience and age in order to,” she said. “But I believe having the business in itself is the experience— and can provide many useful skills for your future.”

And the keyring design enterprise wasn’t her first foray into the business world – she also ran a social media business but COVID saw many businesses unable to continue to invest in her services.

Safe to say, she has a head for business, given how quickly she not only realised that her keyring creations could be a viable operation but how quickly she was able to upscale the enterprise.

“After making one for myself, I found friends my age were interested in them,” Jess said. “From there, I created an Etsy account simply as a joke—not thinking I’d get any orders! However, that quickly changed, with neighbours and members of the community buying them.”

In fact, it took less than a month for her business to be an Etsy bestseller as her personalised keyrings became a must-have gift item. She went from creating personalised keyrings for mother’s looking for the perfect gift to go with their child’s first car and friends buying for friends to the majority of her orders coming from the online business platform.

Her side hustle became a full time job while still juggling her studies but Jess is all about grabbing opportunities and grabbing them when they first emerge.

“Creating the keyrings, becoming a bestseller, and earning a full-time wage whilst at school was almost accidental,” Jess said. “I can definitely say my goal of making a bit of side money has been surpassed. However, I think I set goals without even thinking about it. For example, selling 10 keyrings then expanding to 100 and so on.”

Jess is taking a break from the keyring gig but she truly believes every experience she has had will value-add to everything she is looking to achieve.

“I try to get as much out of every experience as possible, especially with the incredible opportunities I’ve been given, and the skills I’ve learnt from them,” she said. “I think it can definitely propel me into the future of my choice, so whether that be starting another business or offering my skills and knowledge I think every experience will be very valuable. I have learnt the power of developing skills and I think that’s why I have juggles so many jobs, as I am constantly learning transferable skills.”

The move to Adelaide for that double degree in Psychology (Cognitive Neuroscience) and Business Marketing, has afforded Jess a chance to reflect on her past and the people and experiences that shaped her.

“I’ve written messages to people that have helped me, whether that be schoolteachers or foster carers, because you really just take a step back and realise that was a really significant person in my life,” she said.

“You realise the positive effects that they had, even though it might have seemed so minor at the time, and how it is just the little things that can really change your trajectory as a young person.”

More foster carers are needed in the Limestone Coast. If you have space in your heart and home to make a difference in the life of a child, email care@accare.org.au, visit www.accare.org.au/services/ foster-care or call 1300 ACCARE.

MAKING IT COUNT: Mount Gambier teenager Jess Tresidder (pictured above promoting her business in 2021) has shared how living in foster care has shaped her life.

“...foster care is being able to provide that stability and it means that foster children really have a chance to focus on the things in their life that they should as a child...” Jess Tresidder

POOL SPAS & SWIM SPAS

A spa is like nothing else. It’s treasured family time. It’s precious time together with your partner. It’s well deserved quiet time for yourself. It’s an inspiring exercise machine. It’s a gentle recovery tool. A spa is a part of your everyday life, so choose one that fits.

Donehues

Do

Why Donehues Leisure?

1. Convenience: Selling your caravan privately takes time and effort and could cost you money. You need to be available to show potential buyers your caravan when it suits them

2. No Direct Contact:

You don’t need to be personally involved in any negotiations and possibly deal with potential buyers, that might have driven 100s of kilometres, getting aggressive if sale isn’t proceeding as hoped

3. Security:

You don’t have strangers, some possibly with bad intentions, visiting your house and garage. Or unhappy purchasers returning after the sale if they find something wrong.

4. We can come to you:

Our business sees us in towns throughout the Limestone Coast of SA and south west Victoria on a regular basis ….so we will be in your area soon! We can call and see you for a no obligation discussion on your caravan’s worth and take the caravan to our yard.

Blueberry & white chocolate cake

200g (2 cups) frozen blueberries, plus extra, thawed, to serve (optional)

1 tbsp cornflour

225g (1 1/2 cups) self-raising flour

1 tsp baking powder

200g unsalted butter, chopped, at room temperature

220g (1 cup) caster sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 eggs

240g (1 cup) ricotta

2 tbsp milk

100g white chocolate, chopped

Icing sugar, to dust

Method

Preheat oven to 170C/150C fan forced. Grease an 11 x 23cm loaf pan (base measurement). Line with baking paper, allowing the paper to overhang the 2 long sides. Place the blueberries in a bowl and toss with the cornflour. Set aside until required. Sift the flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt into a separate bowl. Set aside until needed. Use electric beaters to beat the butter, sugar and vanilla in a bowl until pale and creamy. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the ricotta and beat until well combined. Add the flour mixture, in batches, alternating with the milk, beating until combined Use a large metal spoon to fold the blueberry mixture and chocolate into the batter. Transfer to the prepared pan. Bake for 1 hour 20 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean. Set aside in the pan for 10 minutes to cool slightly before turning onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust the cake with icing sugar. Cut into slices. Serve with extra blueberries, if using.

124TH

Pilot program embraced by Limestone Coast schools School autism support

Hannah Waters has a decade long association with working with students and for much of her teaching career it has been working with children with disabilities.

A classroom teacher at Mount Gambier’s McDonald Park School, Hannah (pictured) is one of the 400 Autism Inclusion Teachers (AIT) that were installed in all South Australian schools this year to help build understanding and knowledge to support autistic children and young people.

The State Government has invested $28.8 million to provide access to an Autism Inclusion Teacher (AIT), in every public primary school, including Reception to Year 12 schools, as part of a key election commitment.

Given her background, Hannah was a natural fit for the role at McDonald Park School and she has hit the ground running.

“Throughout my time in education, I have helped educate a range of students with different needs, including children with autism,” she said. “Autism diagnoses have become more common now that we have a greater understanding of autism. Statistically in Australia, 1 – 2 in 100 people are autistic. In 2018 205,200 people were diagnosed with autism, with 83% of diagnoses being people under the age of 25. Knowing these statistics prompted me to apply for the AIT role.

“As an education system, I believe it is crucial we continue developing our practice to best support all children, regardless of their specific needs. My passion is inclusive education and ensuring that all students needs are met through a quality differentiated

SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARY 2023

HORSES IN ACTION

CONTINUING ON SUNDAY 26TH

• Unlimited show rides - $20.00 per child for 5 hrs or $5 per ride

• Show bags

• Face painting

• Toddler Play area

• Indoor exhibits

• Trade sites

• Wool Display

• Horses in Action Saturday & Sunday

• Full catering available

• Old McDonald’s Travelling Farm

• Lego competition

learning program.”

And Hannah is looking forward to expanding her skills and knowledge base in providing that support as part of the AIT program.

“I am looking forward to be gaining a greater understanding of autism through the training and development provide,” she said. “What I learn from this I anticipate will be transferable to improve teaching practice for all. I am looking forward to being able to positively impact my colleagues’ teaching practices by providing evidence-based approaches to teaching children with autism.

“I hope to be able to provide teachers with practical solutions to help lighten the load teachers are faced with on a day to day basis. I am also looking forward to having a positive impact on students engagement to school and ultimately learning.”

Of course, it is a role that will also come with its challenges but Hannah is looking forward to tackling that part of the role as well.

“I anticipate that one of the challenges of my role as an Autism Inclusion Teacher will be to balance the holistic needs of individuals, as well as the number of students with autism,” she said. “Children with autism typically have other co-occurring needs,

on my knowledge of autism but also considering other learning barriers such as ADHD, dyslexia, working memory, anxiety, trauma, health needs and more.”

The plan going forward is that Autism Inclusion Teachers will be trained to share contemporary evidence-based approaches with their fellow educators to assist them in supporting and educating autistic children and young people.

“This will enable improved practice relating to autism that builds inclusivity and works for individual school communities,” Hannah said. “This means all children, regardless of having an official diagnosis, will have access to modern evidence-based teaching approaches.”

The government has a clear vision as to what this new AIT roll out will aim to achieve and the program has been designed in consultation with autistic people with lived experience, parents and carers, educators, schools, students, families, experts, and community organisations to ensure it fits the need of the community.

Most of the appointed AITs were already practicing classroom teachers, like Hannah, while others are in key leadership roles at their school. Each AIT will work 1-2 days each fortnight in their new role, providing practical opportunities to apply their learning across the site.

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said his government experience of having a child

“We stand with parents as they navigate their child’s path through the school system,” he said. “I am proud to see South Australia leading the way in this space, by harnessing and expanding the dedicated efforts of our passionate and committed teachers.

“This nation-leading initiative will see these teachers build their own skills and in turn each school’s capacity to work with autistic children and young people. This significant initiative is an important step to change lives and better support our students through their education.

WOOD, WINE & ROSES FESTIVAL VILLAGE GREEN

HEYWOOD

February 25

The best in the business

Automotive Industry Group South East 2022 Apprentice Awards

There’s no denying it – training and development in the automotive industry in the South East is alive and well and the best of those learning the trade were honoured at this month’s 2022 Automotive Industry Group South East Apprentice Awards.

Fourteen winners were honoured at last week’s presentation, selected by a judging panel from a field of nominees put forward by their respective employers, registered training organisations, schools or Australian Apprenticeship Centre.

SOUTHERN PORTS GOLF WEEK

KINGSTON, ROBE & BEACHPORT COURSES

February 25-March 4

Facilitated by the Automotive Industry Group, the awards are all about the training and development of automotive trainees and apprentices in the South East. Nominations were received from Mount Gambier, Millicent and Bordertown and those undertaking an Australian School Based Apprenticeship.

Automotive Industry Group South East vice president Andrew Norman was grateful for the industry and sponsor support to allow the awards scheme to continue, including Gold event sponsors Brandt Tractors, Tafe SA and Burson Auto Parts and Silver event sponsors Barry Maney Group,

the Tuffnell family, K&S Freighters, Velocity Truck Centre, Mt Gambier Isuzu and Carlin and Gazzard.

“We are dedicated to the advancement of youth in automotive careers and supported by an enthusiastic representation from the automotive Industry and on behalf of the AIG-SE I would like to congratulate all the winners for this year,” Mr Norman said.

“The judging panel stated that applications for 2022 were, for the most part, of a very high standard and they were very happy with the number and spread of applicants across most award categories.

“It is reassuring from the judging panel’s perspective that the industry is in good hands moving forward based on the calibre of young people applying.”

QUIZ NIGHT - CANCER RESEARCH FUNDRAISER

MILLICENT FOOTBALL & NEBTALL CLUB

March 4

AWARD WINNERS:

1. Tuffnell Memorial Award winner Amy Nitsche (centre - employed at Cummins South Pacific) with family representatives Sharon Tuffnell & Maxine Tuffnell. (This award is to be by nature an encouragement award and it is to exemplify the spirit and ability shown by Bruce Tuffnell throughout his apprenticeship and working life)

2. Barry Maney OAM Service to Industry Award winner Shane Neale (left - employed at Tatiara Truck and Trailers) with presenter Greg Povey. (Open to any employees in the industry, workshop staff, administration, spare parts, training and education to management positions)

3. Automotive Apprentice of the Year David Ludwig (left - employed at Brabdt Tractors) with presenter Brian Hamlyn (K&S Group)

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY

VARIOUS LOCALTIONS AROUND YOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

March 5

4. TAFE SA Mount Gambier Campus Most Outstanding Student (Skill Based Centre)Nicholas Bignell (left) with Frank Monger (Rotary Club West)

5. Judges Award winner Jake Fishpool (left - employed at Barry Maney Group) with judge Travis Fatchen

6. Heavy Vehicle First Year Award winner Josh Troeth (left - employed at Tatiara Truck and Trailers) with presenter David Burt

7. Heavy Vehicle Second Year Award winner Mitchell Govan (leftemployed at Brandt Tractors) with Mark Telford (Moreland Holdings)

8. Light Vehicle Second Year Award winner Albert Fila (left - emplyed at OG Roberts) with Karina Vanzati (Carlin and Gazzard)

9. Light Vehicle First Year Award winner Mitchell Little (left - employed at Barry Maney Group) with Simon Phillips (OG Roberts)

10.Heavy Vehicle Third Year Award winner Brad Lawson (rightemployed at Tatiara Truck and Trailers) with Leanne Cameron (MEGT)

ENCHANTED FOREST WALK

GREAT SOUTH WEST WALK PORTLAND

March 11

11. Most Improved Award winner Josh Troeth (left - employed at Tatiara Truck and Trailers) with Andrew Norman (AIG-SE vice president representing sponsor Mount Gambier Isuzu)

12. Outstanding Academic Award winner Josh Will (left - employed at Tatiara Truck and Trailers) with Franco Albuino (MTA Field Officer)

13. Outstanding Work Ethic Award winner Connor Grant (left - emplyed at OG Roberts) with Ally Skeer (TAFE SA)

14. School Based Apprentice of the Year Blake Boyer (left - employed at O’Halloran’s Diesel Marine) with Caitlin Castine (representing sponsor Brandt Tractors)

ABSENT AWARD WINNERS:

PENOLA COONAWARRA

ACOUSTIC MUSIC GATHERING

MCCORQUINDALE PARK PENOLA

March 17-19

Send details of your community event to editorial@lifestyle1.net

• TAFE SA Mount Gambier Campus Most Outstanding Student (Industry Placement) - Soe Nay Bell (Sponsored by Cummins South Pacific)

• TAFE SA Mount Gambier Campus Most Outstanding Student (Workshop Based) - Rhys Tucknott (Sponsored by GTE)

• Bordertown High School Most Outstanding Student (Skill Centre Based) Pieter Muller (Sponsored by Tatiara Trucks and Trailers)

• Light Vehicle Third Year Award winner Nicholas Copping (Sponsored by Burson Auto Parts)

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRANK MONGER

“...it is reassuring from the judging panel’s perspective that the industry is in good hands moving forward based on the calibre of young people applying...”

Andrew Norman (AIG-SE vice president)

2023 ROAD RESEALING PROGRAM

Council advises that Gambier Earth Movers will be undertaking the road resealing program in coming weeks. Further notification will be provided to affected residents by Gambier Earth Movers prior to the commencement of each road.

The public is requested to exercise care and patience during the works and to ensure that children and pets are kept well clear of machinery. Please direct any enquiries to Gambier Earth Movers on 8725 4093. The following works are scheduled to occur:

ACACIA STREET

AVEY ROAD

CROUCH STREET SOUTH

EHRET STREET

GILMORE CLOSE

GLADIGAU ROAD

GWENDOLINE STREET

HANSON STREET

HASTING CUNNINHAM

HARRALD STREET

HENTY STREET

KENNEDY AVENUE

LAKE TERRACE WEST

LAKES PARK DRIVE

MADELEY TERRACE

MONTEBELLO DRIVE

MCGREGOR STREET

MILLER STREET

SAVANNAH COURT

SHADYLYN CLOSE

SHELLEY CRESCENT

SHERBROOK CLOSE

SWALLOW DRIVE

STURT STREET

TELFORD STREET

UNDERWOOD AVENUE

WALLACE STREET

WEST STREET

WEIGELIA STREET

WILLAWA STREET

Unprecedented demand for assistance

ac.care looking for support to meet homelessness

Country agency ac.care is calling for support from regional businesses and the community as it faces unprecedented demand on homelessness and emergency relief services.

“A shortage of affordable housing, the rising cost of living and now recent flooding in the Murraylands and Riverland has led to demand for ac.care’s services outstripping our capacity to provide the level of support we know people need to have safe homes and enough money to live on,” ac.care homelessness and community services manager Trish Spark said. The agency has already provided support to close to 400 people in each of its three core regions for homelessness services – the Limestone Coast, Riverland and Murraylands – equating to the number of clients the organisation is funded to assist for the financial year being reached in just over six months.

“The number of people in need of our services is not diminishing but sadly increasing and we need community support to increase our impact to ensure vulnerable people have the support they need,” Ms Spark said.

“The demand for support and strain on our resources is the worst I’ve ever seen it in the 11 years I’ve been here.”

Ms Spark said the Barry Maney

Group’s donation through the CMV Group Staff Foundation last year of close to $20,000 to assist with renting a house in Mount Gambier had allowed ac.care to provide a home for families in emergency situations and had proven vital, as well as demonstrating how business support could transform support for vulnerable people.

“The house has been constantly occupied for short-term use in emergencies and provided a safe and welcoming home for many families who would not have had somewhere safe to go before we acquired the rental property,” she said.

“However, we need more business partnerships, donations and financial support to meet the growing need in our community.”

Tents, swags, non-perishable food hampers and shopping vouchers are among items required to provide to people in crisis unable to secure stable accommodation or afford necessities for themselves and their families.

“Our agency embraces a purpose of local people helping locals after we formed in Mount Gambier in 1986 and have grown to provide diverse services to regions across eastern country South Australia, but we need the community’s support more than ever,” Ms Spark said.

&

emergency relief needs

in community

our communities.”

She said sleeping bags, swags and other items could also be dropped off at the organisation’s Berri, Murray Bridge, Mount Gambier and Millicent sites.

People wanting to donate bulkier items or discuss potential business partnerships can also get in touch via Facebook, call 8724 5400 or visit a site.

ac.care is also preparing to launch various initiatives over the coming weeks to boost fundraising and increase its impact supporting vulnerable people.

She said in Mount Gambier alone ac.care the Limestone Coast Homelessness Service team was currently working with 179 people, including 83 experiencing homelessness due to a lack of available affordable housing and many other families and individuals were being supported to avoid a crisis.

Homelessness service staff are also being stretched from anticipated caseloads of 15 clients to around 40.

The organisation will seek to expand its partnerships with regional businesses, but is also calling for one-off and ongoing donations from new and existing

Back on the piste

Coonawarra petanque event returns after hiatus

After a seven year hiatus, a perfect weekend greeted players for the 21st Annual“Coonawarra Classic Clash Petanque Tournament held over the weekend of February 11 and 12. The French game of petanque is a similar bowling game to the English lawn bowls or the Italian version called Bocce, and was introduced to Australia mainly by French expatriates.

It has now been recognised enthusiastically by people of all ages and origins, with the beauty in the simplicity of the rules and that it can be played almost

anywhere for a bit of fun.

The tournament provided some fierce interstate rivalry between South Australian, Victorian and New South Wales teams over the two days of the competition, with the whole event being hailed a huge success by all who attended.

The Coonawarra Petanque Club (pictured bottom right) was excited to be running this event again, which had becoming recognised as one of the biggest and best tournaments in Australia.

With the help of the Coonawarra Grape & Wine Association and other local sponsors, teams vied for

over $6000 in cash and prizes and championship honours.

The weekend had 150 players entered, creating a great atmosphere and some spirited clashes over the two days. Coonawarra Petanque Club. president Guy Detot said that he was still amazed that people travel such a long distance to come to this competition, and added it was also good to see many new players coming to this event.

On Saturday, teams played six qualifying rounds to determine the best teams to go into the Top 16 for the Principale and Consulante competition. Several teams won all six games, putting them in an ideal spot for the rankings the next day.

On Sunday, the games got a bit more serious, with the final rounds of the tournament showing an exceptionally high standard of play.

Eventually the final came down to two Victorian teams, Martial Leconte, Guy Mercier and Gavin Scott (pictured above top right with committee mebers Mal

supporters in the community via the donation portal on the ac.care website.

“Just $30 can provide a food hamper for an individual or $50 for a family to have enough to eat for a few days and donations of $200 are enough for a swag,” Ms Spark said.

“We are encouraging people to donate financially so we can best direct the funds we raise to the greatest needs in our community and would love to see people move from one-off to ongoing donations, which can be done easily via our website, so we can scale up our impact and develop sustainable fundraising to support

“We also desperately need volunteers to assist with a range of tasks, from food handling and emergency relief to helping with cleaning and setting up of transitionary accommodation,” Ms Spark said.

Visit accare.org.au/donate to contribute to ac.care or contact the organisation on 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) for more information on how you can assist.

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE: ac.care homelessness and community services manager Trish Spark has never seen need in the community as high as it is this year due to the rising cost of living and is calling for people to support ac.care to increase its impact supporting the growing number of vulnerable country people.

Redman (far left) & Dan Redman (far right)), from Melbourne, and Jane Scheggia, Deb Hicks and Doug Hicks, from Avoca.

In front of a crowd of more than 100 spectators, the Melbourne team took an early lead and the Avoca team then trying valiantly to catch up. Displaying some great petanque skills the Melbourne team went on to take out the championship honours 13 – 7.

Martial, captain of the winning team, was ecstatic with the win.

“We have been coming to Coonawarra for many years, and to finally win this event is fantastic,” Martial said. “

It’s been a really well run

tournament and truly enjoyable to play in.”

The local team of Andrew Jackman, Grant Hetherington and Nathan Reeves had a good weekend finishing in sixth place outright.

“Even after the seven year break, it was great to see the so many people come back to Coonawarra, and the whole weekend has been beautiful with some brilliant petanque being played,” Guy said.

“Our club has created a truly special event and the tournament has been tremendous for the whole region.”

“...our club has created a truly special event and the tournament has been tremendous for the whole region...” Gut Detot (Coonawarra Petanque Club president)

Starting CRITICAL conversations

“Mental health is different for every individual and sometimes it’s thing you can’t foresee – a marriage breakdown, a traumatic event, something that is going on in someone’s life that other people have no idea about. You need good people around you and that support is vital.”

A self-confessed novice when it comes to the complications of mental health, the Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell, who was part of the on field action, expressed those thoughts in the wake of Friday night’s headspace Match for Mental Health.

“Personally I’m no expert in this field but physical health is correlated to mental health as well,” he said. “The football game really brought in both elements –physical exercise and the support of one another and the community coming together.

“When you break your arm

you know how to fix it – put it in a cast and in six to eight weeks it will heal itself – mental health is so different.”

The Member for Mount Gambier was impressed with how the event was pulled together by the organising committee and supported by around a 3000-strong crowd.

“It was an amazing effort,” Mr Bell said. “Not that the numbers that attended were important but it shows the community support and that they have an interest in mental health.”

headspace Mount Gambier community liaison worker Nick McInerney, who also took to the field, was thrilled with how the inaugural event unfolded.

“I was really proud and honoured to be part of it – the event was just amazing and it had an important message to raise awareness for mental health,” Mr

McInerney said. “Having so many people there with that theme in mind weas awesome – it shows the community support and you can only hope it starts conversations in the community.”

Mr McInerney said the organising committee worked really hard with a clear vision in mind.

“If anything, Friday night exceeded my expectations, especially given it was the first event of its kind – it was brilliant,” he said, admitting having some of the big names from the AFL, as well as come community personalities helped get people though the gate.

“It was really great to have those bigger stars as the drawcard and then maybe people then got to listen to the message about mental health and see the services on offer that set up their stalls to let people know the kind of help is on offer in the community,” Mr

McInerney said. “And it is always good for your mental health to go out and have fun and that’s what the night was – fun.”

The multiple premiership player for North Gambier ranked the night as one of the highlights of his football career.

“It was surreal – a highlight of my sporting life,” Mr McInerney said. “To run around alongside people like Dane Swan and Shane Mumford and also I never thought I would play with the likes of Ben Mules and Hogget Merrett and that was really cool and something I will remember fondly.”

And while for the likes of Nick McInerney who are still plying their trade on the field, the match was just another outing on the football oval, for those who had to dust off their boots, including Troy Bell, the match was a little more challenging.

“It was sold to me as a casual

kick and a catch but some of those guys were going pretty hard,” Mr Bell said. “I was extremely surprised at the standard of the football and the pace of the game itself.”

In fact, the Member for Mount Gambier was one of the match night casualties when an early twinge in his hamstring saw him sensibly step out of the game and join the crowd.

“The game was a fantastic spectacle and I can say that because it wasn’t long before I joined the crowd, had a beer and watched the game,” Mr Bell said. “Trust me that will be it – that is the last game I will ever play.”

And feedback from some of his mates could see it their last outing as well.

“The guys my vintage that played can barely walk.”

“...when you break your arm you know how to fix it – put it in a cast and in six to eight weeks it will heal itself –mental health is so different ...” Troy Bell (Member for Mount Gambier)

“...the event was just amazing and it had an important message to raise awareness for mental health ...” Nick McInerney (headspace community liaison workker)

1, Former Collingwood livewire Leon Davis fires off a handball.

2. Port MacDonnell’s Jordan Murdoch, who played 122 AFL games for Geelong & Gold Coast Suns, returned home to be part of the match.

3. Brodie Murdoch, who played AFL for St Kilda and also played in consecutive premierships with Port Melbourne 9VFL) and Southport (NEAFL) also made the trip home. Brodie also played in a premiership in a United States Aussie Rules competition in 2021.

4. Nick McInerney, who was also at the event representing headspace, rates the match one of his sporting highlights

5. Connor Little uses Jon Copping as a step ladder in tihs marking contest.

6. Joel Virtanen on the run.

7. Former Penola team mates Simon Berkefeld & Adam Merrett showed no mercy in the clinches.

PHOTOS BY FRANK MONGER

Excellent Opportunity In Prime Location

8 Union Street, Robe

KEEPING THE LAWN LONG

In the hotter months, mow your lawn as high as your lawnmower allows you. Lengthy grass will wear better and deter weeds. Lawns that turn brown, develop bare patches and become infested with weeds are common symptomof cutting the lawn too low.

Pet Care

A golden opportunity to acquire a multifamily property on a large allotment in a central location. This rare offering will appeal to a wide range of astute investors due to its multi-purpose potential, block size and highly sought-after location. Located on Union Street, set on approximately 970m2, the property offers two separate dwellings, 8 bedrooms, 2-bay shed, 2-car carport, a billiard room and offered as walk-in walk-out, is set and ready to sleep 16 people. Fore Building: On entry is a bright and open lounge, living and dining with a neat adjoining kitchen. To the right are three bedrooms, one large queen, one single and one room set with two bunks. At the opposite

end, passing the bathroom and separate toilet, off a small hallway is a master bedroom and queen bedroom. Rear Building: The entertainment and Billiard room on entry, is the hero of the bottom floor which is serviced by a tidy and practical kitchen, separate bathroom, toilet and laundry. Upstairs features an open reading room, one single bedroom and two queen bedrooms. While central in location, the property has good privacy with a large lawned area in-between the two buildings, a discreet 2 car carport with side entry to large shed fit for two fire trucks (once-upon-a-time) and small partly enclosed decked alfresco space. The large, open front lawn space also warrants

If you’re a dog owner and heading away on holidays, the first thing you need to consider is making sure your dog is used to traveling by car before making any plans. If they are comfortable, you can move on to planning what you will need to take during your trip. Even the most well-trained dog can behave a bit unpredictably in a new, exciting environment. When outside of the car, ensure you keep your dog on a leash to make sure they are safe and secure.

Mount Gambier Angus Bulls

Wrattenbullie Poll Herefords

PRIVATE SALES

Tugulawa Simmental Stud

FEBRUARY SALES

Bonnydale Black Simmentals

Monday 13th March @ 1pm(WST) Bridgetown WA

Glendan Park Herefords & Adameluca Angus

Friday 24th February @ 1pm

Lindsay Murray Greys

Tuesday 28th February @ 11.30am (Pigeon Ponds)

Weeran Angus

Tuesday February 28th @1pm

MARCH SALES

Naracoorte Shorthorn Bull Sale

Thursday 16th March Naracoorte SA (Bundaleer, Nentoura, Caskieben)

628 Eight Mile Creek Road, Eight Mile Creek

14 Buffalo Crescent, Mount Gambier

New

NEW > ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT LUXURY ENTERTAINER

Magnificently designed & luxury appointed beach front entertainer located in the heart of Riddoch Bay. 6 star energy rating & overlooks over 73 metres of absolute beach frontage. Contains four bedrooms, the master with luxury ensuite & WIR. BIR’s are provided to all three remaining bedrooms & every room offers ocean views. Both vehicle & pedestrian access to the beach is provided. Kitchen features 40mm stone island bench with waterfall sides, 90cm gas cooktop, electric oven & rangehood, plus BI microwave & dishwasher. Both luxurious bathrooms contain Italian designed tiles, freestanding bathtubs, designer light fixtures & premium hardware. The home comes fully furnished, providing you with beautiful interior styling. Make sure this stunning new home is on the top of your list.

E.O.I Contact Sara McManus 0438 708 281 or Gail Richards 0409 268 199

10 Blyth Street, Mount Gambier

NEW > MODERN SOPHISTICATION

Immediately upon entering through the expansive 1.2m timber & glass pivot front door you will feel right at home. Offering a flexible floor plan including expansive living/ dining space leading through to the alfresco entertaining area with stylish polished concrete floor. Stylish kitchen featuring Caesar Stone benchtops, Euro appliances, abundant soft closing storage options, 5 burner gas cook-top, electric oven & butler’s pantry. Courtyard area with firepit & vegie garden. Master suite offers spacious walk through his/hers dressing room & stunning ensuite. Three remaining carpeted bedrooms are all fitted with large BIR’s & are closely situated to the main bathroom with large freestanding bath, shower & floating vanity.

$699,000-$729,000

101 CROUCH STREET SOUTH, MT GAMBIER E.O.I New 789m2

sold prior)

- Rarely does an opportunity like this come to market - the ultimate building block just a stones throw from Mount Gambier’s land mark, the Blue Lake

- 20 metre frontage to Crouch Street South & provides the ultimate setting amongst other established homes

- If you are looking to build and location is important then this is the perfect parcel to start planning your home

NEW > SOLID HOME WITH TRENDY LOOK

Located in a quiet residential street in the popular Lakes area.

Three bedrooms all with BIR’s, open plan living with modern updates that include, modern white laminate kitchen cabinetry & electric cooking appliances. Lounge area with r/c s/s air conditioning & s/c heating that includes heat shifter ducting all three bedrooms. Bathroom is compact yet functional with updated tiling from original. Extras with this property are fantastic, upgraded windows from timber to aluminium, huge rear pergola that can be enclosed to keep children in & pets out + roll down patio blinds. Enclosed rear yard & near new lock up colourbond shed with power connected set up with separated workshop area & wood/garden equipment storage area by a partition wall can be easily removed if desired for larger shed space.

$330,000-$355,000 Contact Ben Ransom 0400 870 362

Don’t miss an opportunity to secure your piece of gold in this growing coastal community

In “Seafarers Way” amongst established & quality homes is this large 1040m2 allotment Services include power & mains water and is located just a stone throw from the seafront & walking track

LAND

Toni Gilmore 0402 356 905

81 BAILEY RD, TARPEENA E.O.I

- Fenced into 2 paddock, offering a corner allotment with windmill & featuring a new bore

- Zoned Rural, this property provides a quiet country setting for a family looking to build their dream home (S.T.P.C.)

127 Glencoe Road, Glencoe

17 Felicia Street, Mount Gambier

NEW > ENCHANTING COUNTRY COTTAGE

Captivating cathedral style ceiling together with a mezzanine loft master bedroom open ended & overlooking the living space below creates an enchanting atmosphere. Traditional woodstove can serve as an oven, a cook top, a water heater & is the heartbeat of the home. Modern conveniences tucked into the kitchen with the option of electric stove & oven, the timeless classic polished butcher block counter tops add to the cottage charm. Large combine bathroom, toilet & laundry room functional. Two main carpeted bedrooms inside the main house, with an additional self-contained residence. A charming art studio or versatile potting shed & a further variety of shedding options, large rainwater tank plus electric bore & windmill.

COASTAL FARMING OPPORTUNITY - EXCELLENT TURNOUT BLOCK

- Excellent grazing parcel consisting of 143.8 acres / 58.2 hectares of prime peat

fattening country wellsuited to cattle, sheep or dairy turnout block

- Paddocks complete with concrete troughs watered by equipped bore with new submersible pump plus two additional poly rainwater tanks - Approx 14m x 9m

high clearance shed (built 2018) with high clearance roller door, concrete

NEW > CUTE & COSY

Step inside of 17 Felicia Street and you would never know you are walking into a 1970’s solid brick home – the stunning interior has been beautifully renovated & transformed, providing a country provincial feel. 3 Bedrooms, main with WIR & ensuite bathroom including shower, bath, vanity & toilet. Additional bedrooms with BIR’s. Main bathroom with shower, vanity & toilet. Stunning open plan kitchen/dining/ family area. Beautiful kitchen with farmhouse sink, integrated dishwasher, gas cook top, electric oven, skylight, island bench & an abundance of storage. Living area with s/s air conditioning & cosy s/c wood fire. Gorgeous rear pergola. Currently tenanted until 22/9/2023 at $390 per week making this a great investment opportunity.

$349,000-$379,000 Contact Gail Richards 0409 268 199

- This beautiful home is definitely one of a kind, & the moment you walk through the front door, your expression will be one of awe!

- Stunning renovated timber kitchen with walk in pantry, gas cooking and pressed tin splashback

- Separate work from home studio or possible second living arrangement (S.T.P.C) 4 2 4

Sara McManus 0438 708 281

- Charming seaside residence offers a modern floor plan, comprising of open plan living, 3 great sized bedrooms & a generous bathroom

- Well-appointed kitchen offers electric cooking facilities with dishwasher & plenty of cupboard

Al Lamond 0418 849 266

- Build your beach home or permanent residence (STPC)

- The unique allotment boasts an abundance of native vegetation, some history on display being a piece of the “Old Port Mac Jetty”, has a significant fenced frontage & feature island to create your own oasis

- An extremely rare opportunity with only a few steps to the beach!

- Locally owned & operated for over 22 years, this well known business offers a huge variety of pre loved furniture, collectables & giftware including solid timber furniture produced onsite

- This business would suit buyers with a keen interest in furniture, history & good customer relations

5,798m2 PIONEER COUNTRY FURNITURE, MT GAMBIER P.O.A Al

- This well established industrial business is an ideal with room for more growth

- Located in the popular industrial area at Ritana Road, Mount Gambier

- A great opportunity to invest in an established business with an excellent range of plant & equipment, reliable on-going clientele

- Independent tyre business that is long established with a strong loyal clientele

- Business predominantly services prime movers & earth moving equipment & has access to quality tyre brands & suppliers

- Steady figures year on year with ability to further grow sales, excellent annual turnover & gross profit

Ray White_Know How to

Stunning and spacious – a beautiful family home in a fantastic location

Ray White Mt Gambier

2A & 2B Mitchell Street Mount Gambier SA 5290 (08) 8724 7405

mtgambier.sa@raywhite.com

raywhitemtgambier.com.au

4 Stableford Court, Worrolong. E.O.I by 4pm 21st March (Unless Sold Prior)

Open by appointment

Located nearby the Attamurra Golf Club, Norm Mitchell Park and a short drive to the CBD. The solid home offers a secure double garage, an additional double garage shed and a Hotmix driveway. The master bedroom provides a bay window, a ceiling fan, a WIR and an ensuite bathroom. The central living space offers a timber bar, a combustion fireplace with a heat shifter and a ceiling fan. The kitchen has a walk-in pantry, a double sink, an electric cooktop and wall oven with a grill. The immense deck/alfresco area is completely enclosed with zip-track blinds and sliding doors. Two remaining bedrooms offer BIR’s and an additional office with BIR’s could also be utilised as a fourth bedroom if required. The bathroom boasts a vanity, bath, shower and a separate toilet. Outside, the gardens have been meticulously kept with beautiful

3 2 4

$370,000-$400,000

Spacious solid construction brick and tile family home. Huge living areas and ducted reverse cycle heating & cooling. Beautifully updated kitchen with granite tops, gas cooktop, dishwasher and great storage. Three generous sized bedrooms all with built in robes and master with ensuite.

3 2 1

$320,000-$340,000

A large family home with great potential. Open plan living areas and situated in a lovely neighbourhood. Timber kitchen with electric cooking and a walk in pantry. Three generous sized bedrooms with the master including walk in robe and ensuite.

9 Jackway Street, Blackfellows

2 1 2 $269,000-$289,000

An affordable seaside escape. Large allotment over 1,000m2. Detached garage, rainwater tanks, just a minute from quality boat ramp and play ground. Perfect for fishing, diving & swimming. Load up the boat!

3 1 2 $329,000-$349,000

3 2 $300,000-$330,000

3 1 2 $295,000-$315,000

a home and shedding. Hard to find seafront location near coastal township of Port MacDonnell.

An ideal home for those looking to break the rental cycle or invest. Solid and spacious, huge kitchen/ dining, ducted gas heating and great shedding. Close proximity to city centre, schools and shops.

Lovely brick and tile home, ideal as a first home or investment. Open plan living with reverse cycle split system, timber kitchen with electric cooking. Three generous sized bedrooms, the master including built in robes and ensuite.

Lovely solid stone home ideal as a first home or investment. Great kitchen/meals area and front lounge with gas heater. Three generous sized bedrooms all are carpeted, plus updated bathroom. Secure lease until August 2023 @ $280 p/week.

3 2 1 $295,000-$315,000 21 Cockburn Street

Brick and tile three bedroom home, perfect first home or investment property. Front lounge with gas heating and ceiling fan. Open plan kitchen/ meals area. Kitchen with good storage and gas cooktop.

3 1 2 $259,000-$279,000

The perfect starter or investment property. Open living area, remodeled bathroom and handy shedding. Popular location close to shops, park lands and schools. Add your finishing touch to make this one home!

A perfect opportunity to expand your investment portfolio with this lovely property. Approval for ten storage sheds with an updated existing home already tenanted. The home itself is three bedrooms and has open plan living with a split system.

19 Yeates Street

10 Playford Street

14 Kooringa Street

7 Gardiner Terrace

Caves

7 Derwent Court

Flint

10 Sandy Lane, Robe $699,000 - $729,000

acres (approx)

18 Stiles Street, Mt Gambier Highest & Best Offers Wendy Flint

1 Oak Avenue, Lucindale $285,000 - $295,000

25 Wimmera Street, Mt Gambier $485,000 - $510,000 Wendy Flint

62 Cardinia Street, Mt Gambier $419,000 Wendy Flint

TV FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24

SOS for wool classers

TAFE looking to help fill industry-wide shortage

South-west Victorian sheep farmers and contractors are in desperate need of wool classers as an industry-wide shortage starts to bite.

South West TAFE wool classing teacher Stuart MacPherson said there were plenty of well-paid job opportunities for experienced people to work in the field.

“There is a lot of demand from contractors and farmers who are constantly looking for good wool classers,” Mr MacPherson said. “The demand is quite strong. It’s very hard to find wool classers, especially those of the right calibre who are performing at the required level.

“There are staff shortages across all facets on the industry, but it’s becoming more pronounced with handlers and classers.”

South West TAFE will deliver a wool classing course starting in early March at Maroona near Ararat.

Mr MacPherson said the course would provide practical skills as well as theory. “Practical skills are important but classers also need a good theory component as well,” he said.

He added that wool classers must complete the course to get their ticket and provide a valuable service for farmers and buyers.

“Wool classing is important because when the wool is sold as being classed by a registered wool classer, it gives the buyer an assurance of quality,” he said.

The course will take between nine and 18 months. “It can be comfortably achieved in nine months if you have the time and are committed to doing the book work,” Mr MacPherson said.

Classer and now teacher, Sherri Symons, said the industry was screaming out for wool classers.

“There is a desperate need for contractors to find good classers,” she said. “I frequently get phone calls asking me to do it but I have to tell them I’m now teaching the next generation of wool classers.”

Ms Symons, who completed the South West TAFE course about 15 years ago, said it gave her a good grounding in the industry and inspired her to travel across Australia in the role.

“It’s an amazing industry to work in,” she said. “Once you get into the industry and start wool classing, the number of amazing people you meet along the way is phenomenal and it can lead to a lot of career opportunities, especially for young people.”

South West TAFE is also planning courses in Mortlake and Hamilton later this year and may do a residential course at Glenormiston College in the future.

To find out more about the South West TAFE wool classing course, call 1300 648 911 or visit www.swtafe.edu.au

We’re hiring Executive Assistant/Office Administrator – Jubilee Sawmill

Based at Mount Gambier 12-month Fixed Term Contract

OneFortyOne is a trans-Tasman business that owns and manages softwood plantation forests and operates sawmills in Australia and New Zealand. Our Jubilee Sawmill is one of the largest timber processors in the Green Triangle, manufacturing and marketing a full range of sustainably harvested softwood-based building products. In growing and processing the ultimate renewable, we support jobs, the economy and regional communities.

We have a 12-month opening for an experienced Executive Assistant/ Office Coordinator. As a key member of a high-performing team you will work closely and collaboratively with the General Manager Wood Products Operations and internal stakeholders across the business.

The Role:

• Provides a high standard of administrative and general support to the General Manager and site management team.

• Manages operational organisation of front office to ensure smooth and effective operation on day-today basis

• Liaises with internal and external stakeholders on General Manger’s behalf as required

• Prioritises and organises daily activities to ensure any deadlines are met

You:

• Hold an appropriate tertiary qualification or have extensive relevant experience in business administration/operations.

• Have previous experience in a senior administrative role

• Have high level organisational skills and the ability to multitask

• Are able to exercise discretion, confidentiality and trustworthiness.

• Have excellent communication skills – verbal and written

• Pride yourself on attention to detail

• Have the ability to work independently at a fast pace.

• Proficiency in Microsoft office suite

• Have a Current drivers’ license

Prior experience in or knowledge of the timber sawmilling industry or forestry will be highly regarded.

If you are self-driven and with extensive experience providing high level confidential executive support and managing an office, this temporary position is for you!

To Apply:

Email a cover letter and current resume to careers@ onefortyone.com

For further information and a confidential discussion, contact Mae Steele on 0439 089 483

Applications close Sunday 26 February 2023 OneFortyOneencouragesapplicantsofallgenders,ages, andcultures,includingFirstNationspeople,peoplewith disability,andLGBTIQA+people.

www.onefortyone.com

RAA Breakdown Service Technician

Looking to change gears in the automotive industry and use your technical skills to keep South Australians moving on our busy roads.

OGR is seeking a professional to join our Award-Winning Service team in the position of the RAA Breakdown Service Technician. Trade qualification of Cert 3 Automotive technician is required. Other qualifications, such as MR licence, auto electrical, air conditioning or gas licences would be an advantage for this position but not a necessity.

OGR set a high standard with their mechanical Expertise and customer service. We offer great working conditions, in a modern environment with all the latest in technology, equipment and recovery vehicles.

If you can work well under pressure, are a strong communicator, have a keen eye for detail and possess a high level of workmanship this is the job for you. You will be working in the community and will be relied upon to help members in their time of need.

Control your income with opportunity to earn additional pay with available overtime on a roster system.

Support and training will be provided to build a successful career. This role would be well suited to a technician looking for a change of being in the workshop day in day out and improve your current position and advance your career opportunities, this is a great opportunity to join a professional team.

All applications will be kept strictly confidential.

All applications to:

Simon Phillips, OGR Service Manager Phone 08 8724 1130 or sphillips@ogr.com.au

Applications close 4pm Tuesday, 28th February 2023.

Gambier Earth Movers Pty Ltd (GEM) located in Mount Gambier South Australia, is a family owned Civil Construction and Quarrying Industry that has been providing services throughout South East South Australia and South Western Victoria for over 60 years. We take pride in offering quality services, products and the delivering of excellent outcomes for all our clients.

Compliance/WHS Administrator

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Compliance/WHS Administrator to join our team on a full time basis. This position, reporting to the WHS Coordinator is responsible for ensuring our Internal Management System (IMS) is accurately maintained to meet its ISO accredited risk management and compliance framework.

In addition you will be assisting the WHS Coordinator with governance on WHS compliance including return to work matters. Where required we will assist in the training and upskilling of the successful applicant.

Role Responsibilities

The role responsibilities include:

• To operate as an effective member of the Gambier Earth Movers Pty Ltd workforce delivering outcomes in a safe and efficient manner

• Assist in the development, implementation, review and dissemination of relevant policies, procedures, processes, controls and guidelines to promote compliance, reduce risk and meet internal, external and ISO obligations throughout the GEM Group

• Assist the WHS Coordinator in facets of injured workers return to work and claim management

• Undertake internal compliance audits with recommendations and follow up of applicable corrective actions

• The promotion of awareness and compliance, and to provide support and guidance of procedures and rules to all managers, supervisors and employees

• Control and administration of all IMS records

• Coordinate and chair the IMS Management meetings

Skills and Qualifications

• Current Motor Vehicle Licence

• Experience in Compliance management (desirable)

• Understanding of applicable WHS laws (desirable)

• Strong administrative skills with attention to detail

• Highly developed communication (oral and written) and interpersonal skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Outlook, Word & Excel

For further information about this position or the Company please contact Tony Calleja, HR Manager on 0437 465 379.

Written applications, including the names and contact details of at least (2) two referees, must be addressed to:

The HR Manager Gambier Earth Movers Pty Ltd PO Box 378 Mount Gambier SA 5290 or alternatively emailed to: tcalleja@gem-group.com.au and should be received by 5.00pm Wednesday 8 March 2023.

Nurse manager clocks off

Deb Tozer bids her career in the health industry goodbye

Skills in focus for new State-first committee

Tackling future educational and training needs

TAFE SA’s new Regional Skills Advisory Committee has met on the Limestone Coast for the first time.

The new initiative is part of TAFE SA’s ongoing commitment to the region’s education and training needs.

The committee consists of local industry, school, student and community organisation representatives, along with an employment services provider and Aboriginal community representative.

The committee will play a key role in identifying skills needs and working with TAFE SA to ensure training offered in the region is sustainable, viable and relevant to local employers and industry.

TAFE SA chief executive David Coltman, who attended the first meeting with TAFE SA Board chair Joanne Denley, said the response to the callout for committee members had been very encouraging.

After caring for thousands of people with serious health conditions over the past 44 years, urgent care nurse Deb Tozer retired last Friday.

Ms Tozer says being able to help people in their time of need has been rewarding over her long nursing career, including 30 with Portland District Health’s Urgent Care Centre.

“I feel blessed to have witnessed some lives enter this world and extremely privileged to have been able to care for people as they take their last breath,” she said. “In between, I’ve seen many critically ill patients that we’ve been able to help and they’ve been able to return to living their normal lives.”

The Urgent Care Centre Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) began her hospital training at Geelong Hospital in 1979.

Her nursing career included four years in theatre, but her first love remained the Urgent Care Centre (UCC) where she has spent the bulk of her career, including the past eight as the NUM.

During her time working in the UCC, Ms Tozer has seen the department grow from a single nurse per shift working in conjunction with GPs, to 3-4 nurses per shift working with emergency medicine specialists and medical officers providing a 24-hour service to the community.

Over the past decade, the number of presentations at Portland’s Urgent Care Centre has

almost doubled, and there has been a similar increase in their level of acuity.

“I don’t know why that’s happened, but it’s continuously getting busier,” Ms Tozer said. “We’ve treated everything over time, from heart attacks to cuts and bruises, but there’s more now and they’re often more serious.”

She also oversaw the development of infrastructure and policies to keep staff and patients safe during the challenges of the pandemic over the past three years.

She will leave the role with good memories. “I have loved the opportunity to support staff, watching many grow from graduate nurses to taking on senior roles within the department,” she said. “I know our community is in safe hands.”

Ms Tozer said providing urgent care was a team effort. “I’ll miss friends I’ve made in all areas of the hospital, including maintenance, environmental services, stores, administration, radiology, pathology and of course nursing and medical staff.

During her career, Ms Tozer has also raised three children with husband Rob and contributed to the community in many ways, including as a Community Ambulance Officer for 15 years.

She said she planned to spend more time with her family, including travel and watching her grandchildren grow.

“We are delighted with the depth of knowledge, skills and experience that these local community members will bring to the committee and assist in identifying local skill needs,” Mr Coltman said.

“The committee members are all very passionate about local education and training, and ensuring we are all focused on developing a skilled local workforce now and into the future.

“The first meeting covered a broad range of areas including activity at the local campus, increasing engagement with industry and promoting training relevant to the Limestone Coast community.

“South Australian regions are diverse and have different needs and aspirations. The Regional Skills Advisory Committee will enable

the local community to engage with TAFE SA and have a greater say in the training provided on the Limestone Coast.”

The Regional Skills Advisory Committee will develop and implement a Regional Skills Action Plan and follow-up projects.

TAFE SA Manager, Education Partnerships, South-East Ally Skeer (pictured) said that there was significant value in bringing together the representatives from across the local community.

“It is evident that the insights of the committee members will be really valuable, already we have had very fruitful discussions around the types of qualifications being delivered locally,” Ms Skeer said.

“We are determined to strengthen regional engagement with industry and the community. These Regional Skills Advisory Committees will be a regular point of contact for consultation, and I would also encourage local residents to reach out to myself for any local education and training matters.”

This Limestone Coast committee is the first of its kind and will be a model for another seven regional committees soon to be established across the state.

South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills Blair Boyer said the Limestone Coast was hugely important to the South Australian economy – and TAFE SA plays a critical role in ensuring

industry has the skilled workers it needs.

“It’s through this Advisory Committee that we can ensure we have the local knowledge of businesses and industry sectors to help shape the future direction of the Limestone Coast,” Mr Boyer said.

Limestone Coast Regional Skills Advisory Committee members:

John Martin-Brown

Industry Representative

Kirby Shearing Industry Representative

Alison Tschirn

Industry Representative

Tania Plunkett

School Representative

Dr Judith Nagy

Community Organisation

Representative

Raekhel Barrett

Student Representative

Julie Tipene

Employment Service Provider

Mark Lovett

Aboriginal Communities

Representative

Sam Scammel

TAFE SA Board Sponsor to the committee

Damian Turner

Executive Director People and Culture, TAFE SA

Ally Skeer

Regional Manager, Education Partnerships, TAFE SA – South East Region

It’s time to let the Naracorote Lucindale Council know how you want your rates spent and the priorities needed in the year ahead. Council has started developing the 2023-2024 Draft Annual Business Plan & Budget and wants your feedback to shape the future of the area.

At this time every year, council makes decisions about proposed services, facilities, upgrades and new projects for the next financial year, which are laid out in a Draft Annual Business Plan & Budget. Your feedback goes into shaping these objectives and priorities to help Council better meet the needs of the community.

Submissions must be in writing (post or email) and received by COB on Friday, March 17.

Post - PO Box 555, Naracoorte, SA, 5271

Email - council@nlc.sa.gov.au

By having your say, you’re helping to make your Council area a better place to live. Some of the ideas that have been included in previous budgets include the construction of a walking trail, upgrades to community sporting and recreational facilities, and support for community projects and events. Your feedback will go to elected members and staff to help them prepare the Draft Annual Business Plan & Budget.

Keep an eye on our Your Say page for further updates about the preparation of the 2023-2024 Draft Annual Business Plan & Budget - https://yoursay.naracoortelucindale.sa.gov.au/

ACROSS 1)

Alpha’s

1) Bit for the dog bowl

2) Sound heard in a dairy herd

3) Inflatable item 4) Kind of card

5) “Make yourself_”

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Lions Club out & about in the community

Hot on the heels of 60th anniversary celebrations the Lions back in the thick of community projects

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23) Not

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“Laugh-In” co-host

“Glades” or “green” starter

Earlier this month the Lions Club of Mount Gambier was in the throes of it 60th anniversary celebrations and at the milestone dinner a few community projects and donations were flagged meaning last week members for out in force to deliver on those promises.

Club president Stephen Bell and City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin OAM planted a tree for the Lions Club of Mount Gambier in the Elizabeth Knight Reserve on Tuesday - the tree commemorating six decades of humanitarian service contributed by the club, in the same reserve where the City of Mount Gambier recently planted another commemorative tree marking the reign of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The club’s botanical advisor Lion Robin Conboy OAM recommended the species of tree fit for the purpose –Corymbia Eximia Nana, commonly known as a Dwarf Yellow Bloodwood. A mounted pink dolomite stone will be fitted with a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion. The club was grateful for the cooperation and good will of the City of Mount Gambier staff.

Lions members also headed to Boandik to present the two Aspire Happy Sleeper Chairs the club funded to CEO Glenn Rappensberg and chief operating officer Sandra Parsons. The sleeper chair is available for use as night beds for a family member staying overnight. The grant to purchase the chairs was equally funded by the Lions Club of Mount Gambier and the Australian Lions Foundation Inc. The Lions community grant program is part of the club’s 60th Charter Anniversary celebration.

COMMEMORATIVE TREE: (Above main) City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin OAM, Eric Roughana AM, Lions Club of Mount Gambier president Stephen Bell, Fay Roberts, Malcolm Laslett, Robin Conboy, Graham Carter & Jill Austin and (inset) Mayor Marftin on the tolls.

History makers break 29 year drought

South Eastern men’s team secure State title in nail biting finish to country carnival

It took 29 years but the drought has been broken with the South Eastern bowls team, representing Region 1 at the South Australian Men’s Country Round Robin, taking the title in a tense final round victory. The history making team won five of their seven outings – an identical win-loss record to both North Eastern and the wildly favoured Yorke Peninsula but the South Eastern score differential saw them finish atop the standings. It all came down to the final round and sixth placed Eyre Peninsula’s shock win over Yorke Peninsula, combined with South Eastern’s huge win over the bottom ranked Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island saw South Eastern end almost three decades in the title wilderness.

South Eastern also had eight players ranked in the top 20 of the week long tournament – Brad Errock, the best of the bunch, ranked fifth, with Dean Burgoyne,

Ian Williams, Glenn Wright, Chris Waugh and Patrick Lynch also part of the top 10, while Ron Garton and Eric Pitt were also ranked inside the best 20 players in country SA. All eight of those players finished the week with a 6-1 record as they helped guide South Eastern to the title.

The South Eastern side started the tournament with a bang –defeating Eyre Peninsula 119 shots to 80. Team 1 won 19-13; Team 2 went down narrowly by four; Team 3 easily took the win 27-11; Team 4 also took the win 30-17 and Team 5 won by eight shots.

In round two, South Eastern narrowly lost to the tournament favourites Yorke Peninsula by 15 shots, with Team 1 and Team 5 going down narrowly, Team 2 finishing level pegging and Team 3 winning by five shots and Team 4 by two.

It was a 15 shot win for South Eastern in round three when they

took on Upper Northern – Team 1 narrowly lost by one; Team 2 won by four shots; Team 3 taking the win 21-15; Team 4 winning 25-16 and Team 5 going down by three.

Round four saw a narrow seven shot loss to eventual runner up North Eastern with Team 1 losing by five shots; Team 2 getting the win by two; Team 2 by nine; Team 4 securing a 19-17 win and Team 5 suffering a 7-22 loss.

Round five was another tough outing with South Eastern just getting the better of Eastern with a 102-94 win to remain in contention.

Team 1 took their rink 22-20; Team 2 suffered a six shot loss; Team 3 dominated their rink with an eight shot win; Team 4 went down by nine shots and Team 5 dominated with a 27-14 win.

South Eastern’s round six victory over Lower North certainly ensured it remained well in the hunt for the title, taking down their opponent 135 shots to 83. Team 1 won by 12

TEAMS:

TEAM ONE: Tony Bowditch (skipper); Peter Gregory (lead); Ben masters (second) & Darryl Stoop (third)

TEAM TWO: Greg Carpenter (skipper); John Reppin (lead); Peter Reppin (second) & Wayne Ross (third)

TEAM THREE: Chris Waugh (skipper); Patrick Lynch (lead); Ron Garton (second) & Eric Pitt (third)

TEAM FOUR: Brad Errock (skipper); Dean Burgoyne (lead); Glen Wright 9second) & Ian Williams (third)

TEAM FIVE:

Michael Fox (skipper); Simon Attiwill (lead); Tim Wrightson (second) & Daniel Langton (third)

shots; Team 2 by 21 shots; Team 3 went down by eight; Team 4 won their rink by 25 shots and Team 5 had a nail biting two shot win.

The final round saw the South Eastern team power to the title with a 94-78 victory over Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island. Team 1 (10 shots); Team 2 (five shots); Team 3

(seven shots) and Team 4 (six shots) all won their rinks, while Team 5 suffered a 10 shot defeat but in the end it was enough to finish top and bring the trophy back to the South East.

The South Eastern women’s team finished sixth with two wins and five losses.

Pennant bowls results

Mid Week Pennant

Mount Gambier Red 71/8 d Millicent Red 25/0; Naracoorte RSL 49/6 d Mount Gambier Blue 41/2; Port MacDonnell Red 69/8 d Mount Gambier RSL Blue 37/0; Mount Gambier RSL Red 48/4 d Naracoorte 30/0; Mount Gambier RSL White 48/8 d Port MacDonnell Blue 40/0

Ladies Pennant Division One

Mount Gambier RSL Red 61/8 d Kingston 33/0; Millicent Red 46/4

d Penola Red 39/2; Millicent Blue 52/6 d Penola Blue 44/2; Port MacDonnell 53/8 d Mount Gambier RSL Blue 34/0

Division Two

Naracoorte 56/8 d Port MacDonnell 37/0; Beachport Blue 54/6 d Beachport Red 46/2; Mount Gambier won on forfeit by Lucindale; Robe 41/8 d Naracoorte RSL 35/0

Division Three Mount Gambier RSL 48/6 d Naracoorte 45/2; Millicent 56/6 d Robe 41/2

Cricket results

TWO DAY FIXTURES (DAY ONE)

Barber Shield

Mil Lel 1st inning 33 (N. Walters

18; S. Willis 4/6; T. Badman 3/3;

B. Stephenson 2-14) v West Gambier 1st inning 8/199 in reply

(B. Stephenson 88; J. Geddes 18;

W. Rowland 3/49; J. Miller 2/55)

Penola 1st innings 78 (M. Smith, M. Waters 19; L. March 18; I. Mulraney 4/15; E. Fisher 4/23) v North Sportsman’s 1st inning 4/110 in reply (N.

McInerney 56no.; E. Fisher 25; M. Sith 2/19)

South Gambeir 1st innings 9/214 (S. Easterbrook 53; M. Sims 44no.; R.

Drenthen 31; J. Sims 29; E. Geary 23; A. Hentschke 3/56; C. Little 3/46)

Crouch Shield

East Gambier 1st innings 175 (P. Kerr 46; D. Whitehorn 24; A. Thomson

21no.; J. Geary 4/12; B. Geary 2/14) v South Gambier 1st innings 0/13 in reply

Glencoe 1st inning 7/312 (J. Matthews 127no.; T. Weaver 95; Z. Cocks 26;

B. Barker 3/71; D. Barrett 2/39))v Gambier Centrals (yet to bat)

Mil Lel 1st innings 165 (T. Grigg 55; S. Grigg 24; L. Cameron 23; M. Brown

19; C. Galpin 3/53) v West Gambier 1st innings 2/36 in reply (C. Galpin

17; A. Horbury 2/11)

Cox Bros Shield

Gambier Centrals 1st inning 320 (J. Risely 100no.; E. Williams 86; L. Rainey

33; D. Williams 27; R. Courtney 22; S. Just 3/57; Z. Walker 3/35) v Tarpeena

1st innings 0/1 in reply

SEMI FINALS:

O’Donoghue Shield

Millicent 9/228 (S, Hunt 53no.; O. Howell 33; K. Bevan 30; A. Lindner 21; N. Bald 2/27; H. Hicks 2/20) d Mil lel 94 (L. Dolphin 37; N. Bald 21; A. Lindner

3/19; B. Rowe 2/13; C. Hateley 2/14)

South Gambier 1st innings 8/134 (J. Sims 51no.; J. Geary 24; L. Richards

4/33; R. Pandey 2/7) d East Gambier 1st innings 9/110 (W. Graetz 33; E. Clark 12no.; J. Sims 2/20; J. Maxwell 2/2; E. Geary 2/3)

GRAND FINAL (February 23 & 24):

Millicent v South Gambier (@ Frew Park - 4.30pm start time)

Hall Trophy

Mil Lel 1st innings 170 (R. Lucas 64no.; H. Hicks 29; T. Virtanen 27no.; B. Noble 2/15; A. Banik Das 2/27; K. Price 2/25)6 d West Gambier 63 (K. Price

12; T. Richards 10no.; R. Grigg 4/13; T. Fiegert 3/6)

No final result between Millicent & South Gambier - Millicent in control

GRAND FINAL (February 25 & 26):

Mil Lel v Millicent (unconfirmed)

Sims Shield

Millicent 1st inning 6/153 (no details available) d Mount Burr 8/50 (C. Bromley 12no.; K. Bromley 10no.; R. Lawlor 4/8)

South Gambier 1st innings 7/101 (C. Howard 35ret.; S, Tucker 2/11) tied with Penola 7/101 (Joshua Manninen 13ret.; James Manninen 12; I. Salmon 2/2)

GRAND FINAL (February 25 & 26):

Mil Lel v Penola (finished higher on ladder after tied result with South in semi final)

Not just centuries but UNBEATEN centuries

Tennis results

Top two sides continue to dominate

Grand final rematch looks assured in 2022/23 season

a likely grand final series rematch.

Tigers took on a gallant Federals who have continued to improve week by week under the guidance of coach Matt Nichols.

Tigers welcomed back star player Brodie Foster (pictured left) just in time for finals and the former league medallist picked up to where he left from leading the way with the bat.

Tigers Garth Ransom (pictured right) and Garret Ha joining Foster in leading the way with the bat helping Tigers gather a sizeable lead, just enough to be too far for Federals reach.

The baseball talk was in full swing Friday night with a Federals and Alex Reppin rumoured reunion next season the topic, but for Friday night Reppin threw a great nine inning game for the orange and black with just one hit against his name.

Federals again, showing a rapid improvement and a game where many thought it would be a one sided affair proved to be a classic with just a four run victory to Tigers.

Brodie Foster, Reppin and Nugget Ransom leading the way for Tigers in a match winning combination of hits.

In the Saturday afternoon game, it was Central far to strong for South in a huge victory and a continued dominance for season 2022/2023 to date.

RESULTS

DIVISION ONE

Tigers 5 (B.Foster, G.Ha, A.Reppin, G.Ransom 2, K.Ransom, J.Foster, J.England) d Federals 1 (C.Nichols);

Central 13 d South 1 (no hits supplied)

DIVISION TWO

Tigers 31 d Federals 4

UNDER 18

South 11 d Tigers 7

Glencoe’s Crouch Shield team posted an impressive 7/312 at the weekend thanks in no small part to Jed Matthews (pictured above left), who was unbeaten on 127 at the end of the day’s play. Matthews found the boundary 18 times and cleared it three times and Tory Weaver’s 95 was also an impressive knock to help set up the imposing total. In Cox Shield action, Jason Risely (pictured above right) also hit three figures with a nice round 100no. in Gambier Centrals clash with Tarpeena. Risely hit 15 fours and a six as his team posted 320.

Bringing State training to the South East

Clare Hopgood earns a place in national championship team

Showing hockey’s new commitment to regions

Pathways program honour commitment to be more accessible to South Australia’s regional players

Clare Hopgood is headed north this April – the rising South Australian hockey star earning a place in the South Australian State Under 15 hockey team set to compete in Darwin at the national championships..

After working her way through the HockeySA pathways program, travelling to Naracoorte, Berri, Adelaide, and Port Pirie along the way, Clare (pictured above with HockeSA head of high performance Roel van Maastrigt for a training session at the weekend) is one of only two squad member who don’t play in the Adelaide metropolitan competition.

Her selection sets in motion seven weeks of training in Adelaide in the lead up to the tournament, meaning may hours on the road loom for Clare and her family.

State selection caps off a great 12 months for Clare. She won league best and fairest for the Lower South East Hockey Association for under 15s, and was named co-captain of the team of the year. She was also in the top five for the league in Division 2 women. She hit goals in grand finals for both those sides in club side Tigers and is also in the Limestone Coast Regional Sports Academy for hockey.

This is not the first opportunity for Clare to represent her State, making the Under 13 team in 2021 but that national championships was cancelled due to COVID.

Fellow South East player Eliza Beck was selected as a reserve for the Under 15 team, while Naracoorte’s Will Ellis is part of the boys Under 15 line-up.

HockeySA was in Mount Gambier last weekend and will return again this weekend as part of the State body’s new and improved pathways program for State side selection. The two weekend’s of camps are being headed up by HockeySA head of high performance Roel van Maastrigt, with Mount Gambier based elite pathway coach Graeme Millhouse (pictured above left at the weekend camp) also lending his expertise as players like Mount Gambier based State hopefuls Mercedes Theobald and Chloe Boylan(above right) enjoy the benefit of specialised trainng right on thier doorstep. Roel van Maastrigt sat down with Lifestyle1 and his thoughts on hockey in this region and making elite patheays more accessible to regional talent will appear in next week’s Lifestyle1.

Pitchers in control in weekend softball action

The game between Demons and Concordes White started off tight with a three up, three down for both teams in the first innings. The second innings remained tight with Concordes scoring no runs and Demons managing to score their first. Demons looked solid in the field with Jo Hart not missing a fly catch at left field and Demons youngest player Sofie Morale managing two outs in a row with a field and throw to first and a fly catch at second. Kate Altschwager from Concordes United managing two safe hits for the game. It was also a game for the pitchers with eight batters over both teams being struck out in the batting box with Demons securing the win 5-2..

The other match, between Conordes United and Wanderers saw United start with a bang , scoring three, with Dana Jones, Montana Millard and Codie Jackway crossing the plate and while Wanderers also scored with Fiona Finch, UNited looked in control.

Things tightened up over the next couple of innings before United was again able to find a way to score, and establish a 5-1 lead in the fourth innings.

Both teams scored in the fifth and Wanderers also scored in the sixth but United was always in control, courtesy of some stunning pitching from Dana Jones, who also got the job done with the bat, with a double play from sister Codie Jackway one of the match highlights, while Julie Beck was on fire in the field with a coiuple of good catched to ensure United reminaed in control, winning 7-2.

RESULTS:

Demons 5 (Cindy Burford, Billie Jones, Steph Chant & Amber Clarke) d Concordes White 2 (Kate Altchswager 2; Maddi Sutherland)

Concordes United 7 (Montana Millard, Julie Beck 3; Dana Jones 2; Codie Jackway, Hannah Taylor & Lorelle Walker) d Wanderers 3 (Rej Smith & Tracy Anderson)

Johnson takes out the Twin Peaks event

Popular Port MacDonnell Hill Climb attracts 70 competitors

South Eastern Automobile Club started the 2023 competition year with the Twin Peaks Hill Climb, held at the Western area of the coastal reserve at Port MacDonnell.

Proving to be a success story for the club and the Port MacDonnell business people, it is also very popular amongst the lucky 70 competitors that secured a spot to run in the two-day event.

An early start for every competitor and the sizable team of officials needed to run an event of this size, racing got underway after the drivers briefing and warnings given to the eager participants to respect the track, as it will ‘bite’ those that push too hard.

Club life member Kevin Raedel drew the dubious honour of car no.1 and tackled the very technical first track, followed by an open type second track in the black Fiesta, not putting a foot wrong all day – well most of it anyway.

Competitor cars ranged from a ‘legends’ purpose built race car, through all types of sedan based two wheel drive cars, many four wheel drive Subaru WRXs and Mitsubishi EVOs to a Citroen 2CV – certainly not your average hill climb vehicle.

Most drivers behaved well on the first run, with the early start leaving the bitumen cold, plenty of sand blown across the roadways by the strong winds all day and a little moisture thrown in for good measure, the track grip level was not great and caught out a couple.

Of the capacity field, roughly half were SEAC members with the rest evenly spread from Adelaide and Victorian clubs.

Having two days of competition, the scoring system ensures that the driver has to compete in both days

to have any chance of a trophy, either for fastest car or class placing. The two days are split into two separate runs, with the quickest time for track one and two on Saturday added to the same runs for Sunday and placings calculated on the quickest combined track time.

Most drivers are looking to better the one minute time for each track, some succeeding easily with huge horse power and very good suspension setups, with many others having a compromise on grip levels with lesser power, making it much harder to keep the car flowing around the tricky layouts.

Bravado also counts when all else fails, for many near misses being talked about after the competition had finished on Sunday afternoon.

Day 1, not a lot of casualties from ‘off track’ excursions, four rounds were completed with very windy overcast conditions keeping the track temperature ‘cold’ and dirty.

Top of the day’s time sheets, no surprise to see a four Wheel Drive fill the first six spots, with Doug Johnson, Sean Day, Guy Chet, Damien Brand, Jordan Rohrlach and Patrick Hitchcock in that order, from the Black RX7 of Glen Latter – always quick, Dave Harris, Steven Grinstead in the lovely sounding Commodore VL and Paul Keen rounding out the top 10.

Doug Johnson drove his Subaru WRX extremely well and pulled a 52.64 on 3rd run and 47.20 second time on the second run.

Sean Day wound his way through to a best time of 53.42 and 48.82 seconds on his third attempt.

Guy Chet did his best run on track 1 on the 4th go with a 54.11 and 48.92 on the 2nd attempt of

track 2. Damien Brand scored the best time on track 1 and track 2 on the 3rd run, 54.37 and 49.99 seconds.

Jordan Rohrlach did his best work on round 4 on both tracks with a 55.40 and 52.90 second pass.

Patrick Hitchcock scored his points on Run 3 with 57.02 and 51.74 for his best days run.

Series Sponsor, Dave Harris is another Subaru WRX campaigner that is maturing with every run and did his best work on Round 3, scoring a 56.95 and 52.80.

Steve Grinstead always gives the VL Commodore a good workout and worked through to Round 4 for his quickest runs of 58.37 and 52.04 for day 1 with arguably the best sounding car on the track.

Paul Keen drove the Mitsubishi EVO well and also used the last run to advantage, with a 57.66 and 53.44 seconds passes.

Another early start for all, Sunday’s weather looked as though it was going to be the same as the previous day, with more overcast, threatening sky’s and lots of wind, but it cleared late morning to turn on a bit of heat and that saw some very quick times appear on the score sheets.

Doug Johnson continued his precious day’s effort setting the pace for Sunday on both tracks, 52.73 on the third run for Track 1 and 48.20 on the second pass on Track 2.

Damien Brand used the warmer track conditions to advantage clocking a 53.34 on Track 1 first fun, 48.38 on second run of Track 2.

Guy Chet was also quick on Track 1 first run 54.00 and a 49.07 for the third pass on Track 2.

Sean Day did it all on the first attempt, 54.12 and 49.17 being his best for Day 2.

Glenn Latter hit the ground running with a first pass on Track 1 of 57.38 and followed that up with a 48.82 seconds run on Track 2 at the 3rd run.

Jordan Rorhlach also started well on Track 1 first run with a 54.79 and 2nd Track third pass of 54.59 seconds.

Patrick Hitchcock did his best work on the warmer surface with Track 1 second pass of 57.51 seconds and Track 2 3rd pass stopping the clock at 50.78 seconds.

Steve Grinstead saved his best for the last runs with a Track 1 time of 58.71 and Track 2 of 50.71 seconds.

Mark Dixon got his act together on the second day, pushing the Subaru WRX a bit harder to achieve Track 1 time of 57.23 and Track 2 time of 52.39 seconds on the warm 3rd pass on each layout.

Brad Smith was another to make use of the warmer road surface for the third pass at each track, 57.97 on Track 1, 52.27 seconds on Track 2.

Once the racing had been completed, the time sheets had to be entered for the remaining last few cards and checked to ensure all had been correctly entered, trophy presentation took place at the picturesque seaside area, next to the lookout.

Outright placings for the Hannaford Seeds Hill Climb Series 2023 Twin Peaks Hill Climb, run by SEAC Mount Gambier:

1st Outright Douglas Johnson

3:20.77 seconds

2nd Outright Sean Day

3:25.53 seconds

3rd Outright Damien Brand

3:26.08 seconds

4th Outright Guy Chet

3:26.10 seconds

5th Outright Jordan Rohrlach

3:34.68 seconds

6th Outright Glenn Latter

3:35.32 seconds

7th Outright Patrick Hitchcock

3:37.05 seconds

8th Outright Steve Grinstead 3:39.83 seconds

9th Outright David Harris

10th Outright Mark Dixon

Table tennis summer season enjoys a round of close encounters in both divisions

Mount Gambier Table Tennis

Summer 2023 Season continued this week, with many close and exciting encounters across both divisions.

Robin Pellen led The 70’s Show

into battle against Ben Newman’s Blackadder team in the first Division 1 bout of the night.

Highlights included Blackadder player Caleb Bachmann’s thrilling five-game victory over Chris Turner, and The 70’s Show’s Sanith equally enthralling triumph over fellow stalwart Ward Freeman.

Newman and Bachmann both posted clean sheets for their side, while Katrina McPhee’s

undefeated performance gave The 70’s Show the slight edge they needed to come away with a 10-8 victory.

The other Division 1 match was an even tighter affair, Sirinat Sweet, Cameron Beal and Justin Hutchesson all keeping their singles records clean for Banana Spits, while in contrast the Goodies team had an even spread of contributors.

Sweet needed to beat Rowan Hardcastle (pictured) in the final rubber of the match to force a tie and countback.

All looked lost as Hardcastle appeared to have Sweet’s measure early, skipping to a comfortable two-game lead. Sweet would not be denied however, steadily clawing her way back into the contest.

The Goodies claimed the third stanza and suddenly had confidence and momentum at her end of the table, as Hardcastle starting to make uncharacteristic

errors as the pressure mounted.

When Sweet claimed the fourth game, it all came down to one final decider.

After the combatants traded blows early, Sweet’s experience came to the fore in the latter stages, patiently wearing her young opponent down and waiting for the right moment to strike.

Hardcastle was unable to cope with the pressure, his unforced error count piling up as Sweet eventually ran away with victory by 11 points to 7.

With the overall match score locked away at nine rubbers apiece, the captains came together to count back individual games. When all was said and done, Hardcastle’s Banana Spits escaped with a slender 39-37 victory.

Division 2 results were slightly more clear-cut, Allan Withers and Marga Steele leading their Dad’s Army team to a 7-5 win over Richard Van Der Linde’s Mr Bean

outfit.

The match was in the balance until Withers and Steele both won their respective reverse singles rubbers to close out the night.

Lenny Van Der Linde was the best performer for Mr Bean, recording a clean sheet.

The final match of the night saw the Jedda Hardcastle-led Pickled Shrimp team score and impressive 8-4 victory over Chris McGregor’s Young Ones.

Joel Schafer and Tracey Rawlings both recorded clean sheets for the victors while Youssef Malicdem and Lorraine Halleday provided some resistance for the opposition.

2-rubber winners:

• Division 1: Sirinat Sweet, Cameron Beal, Justin Hutchesson (Goodies); Katrina McPhee (The 70s Show); Ben Newman, Caleb Bachmann (Blackadder).

• Division 2: Lenny Van Der Linde (Mr Bean); Allan Withers, Marga Steele (Dad’s Army); Joel Schafer, Tracey Rawlings (Pickled Shrimp)

Woods makes the biggest splash

Wulanda hosts Tenison Woods College Swimming Carnival

Tenison Woods College held their Year 7-12 Swimming Carnival at the new Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre earlier this month.

There was a great display of competition throughout the day and some strong swimmers among the cohort.

Students dressed to the theme of ‘Under the Sea’ and it was great to see some Founder team rivalry.

Despite some tough competition Woods proved too strong, finishing the day with a win.

RESULTS

1st Woods – 1878

2nd McAuley – 1426

3rd MacKillop – 1291

4th Champagnat – 1241

CHAMPIONS

13 Year Old Champions

Jessica Oxlade & Vincent Moore

14 Year Old Champions

Gabriel Strachan & Indee Stratford

15 Year Old Champions

Charles Moore & Mikayla Pearson

16 Year Old Champions

Vaughn Stratford & Macey Griffith

Overall Junior Champions

Mikayla Pearson & Charles Moore

Overall Senior Champions

Elijah Stratford & Aleisha Pearson

Fastest Swimmers

Mikayla Pearson & Vaughn

Stratford

RECORDS BROKEN

20YO 50m Medley Relay - Vaughn

Stratford, Jonty Collins, Elijah Stratford & Charles Moore

PHOTOS:

1. Woods captains Jackson Bowden & Gianna Morello, proudly hold the Maney Shield after winning the 2023 Tenison Woods College Swimming Carnival

2. 20 Year Old Medley Relay record breakers Vaughn Stratford, Jonty Collins, Elijah Stratford & Charles Moore.

3. Mikayla Pearson & Charles Moore were named the Junior Swimming Champions

4. Elijah Stratford & Aleisha Pearson claim the Senior Swimming Champion Shield

5. Paige Lucas, Rylee Kenny, Daisy Tunkin, Portia McRae-Vilde, Abby Denton & Siobhan Adams

6. Harry Mules, Mitchell Cornolo & Jackson Bowden

7. Lucy Catlin & Eva Manarangi

8. Aysia Robinson & Amber Ferrari

9. Isla Lynch, Lucy Noonan & Lacey Hunter

10. Axl Von Stanke, Oscar Sneath & Madi Lane

11. Scarlett Zalme & Esha Brooksby ON THE COVER: Gianna Morello & Keelie Lindner

Myers and Ford shine in par competition

Blue Lake Golf Club ladies compete in Sorrentos Cafe sponsored Summer Trophy third round action

Earlier than usual tee-off times were welcomed due to the warm weather forecasted for the 3rd Round of the Sorrentos Cafe sponsored Summer Trophy played in par format.

The dreaded par competition is probably the most disliked format for the average golfer as it does usually suit the higher handicappers.

Helen Myers and Annette Ford were the exception both playing over or square to their handicaps.

FEBRUARY 11 RESULTS

Myers, playing off 20 ,was well pleased with her +1 that included five plusses andtwo wipes on the outward nine turning +3 to unfortunately register three wipes but a plus on the 17th and squaring four holes kept the lead from Annette Ford, off 22, who was close on her heals finishing all square.

Ford’s card showed plusses on the 1st, 2nd, 8th, 16th and 18th with five wipes, the rest of the holes square to her handicap.

Carol Megaw, off 29, was third placegetter playing a steady game also finishing square and had to go to a countback with Ford losing to Ford’s better inward nine.

Megaw registerd plusses on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 13th and 17th and five wipes.

Division Two’s Lucy Richards, off 30, finished square and also had to go to a countback with Vivienne Wilson square before collecting the first prize Sorrentos Cafe voucher.

In extremely gusty conditions 14 women competed in the stroke competition and it was pleasing to see Lee Anderson collect the first prize voucher after signing for 112/43/69, three under the daily scratch rating of 72. Anderson’s front nine score of 61 left a few strokes to take off on the back nine and that is just what she did shooting a 51. Second was Dianne Perryman posting 88/18/70 with pars on the 2nd, 12th, 14th and 16th with splits of 47/41. Third was Karen Panagopoulos 95/23/72 playing to her handicap witj splits of 50/49 that included pars on the 5th, 11th and 15th. Nearest to the pin was Josie Ashby, long drive Perryman and least putts Bev Pascoe.

Night Owls competition getting to pointy end

With only four weeks of competition left of the season and some scores level on points it is getting intense at the Millicent Bowling Club Night Owls competition for some of the teams. Rovers and Sparkies are on equal points with only five points separating Maccas and The Pups and six points separating Here 4 Beer and Black Beetles.

Touches: Sam Kent (The Pups)

3, Ray Doecke (Maccas) 4, Bill Chapman (Black Beetles) 3, Ian Johns (Try Hards) 3

Winners:

RED DIVISION: Awesome Foursome (Allan Webster, Derek Bowering, Denis Clifford, Dave Turner) defeated Birdies 18+18, Somerset Legends 17+3, Untouchables 17+3, Rovers 16+1, Max’s Four 17, Jack Attack 15.

BLUE DIVISION: Somery Seniors (Ian Grosser, Jeremy Kenny, Robert Leslie, Craig Stewart) defeated Lion Rams 20+14, Maccas 19+8, Rotary 18+18, Acky’s Owls 18+11, Bits & Pieces 17+3.

WHITE DIVISION: Here 4 Beer (Graham Reilly, Di Taylor, Trevor Reilly, Bradyn Reilly) defeated Lion Cubs 20+22, Beanz Team 19+12, Black Beetles 18+7, Lions Roar 16+7.

RED DIVISION WINNERS: (Top right) Awesome Foursome - Derek Bowering, Denis Clifford, Allan Webster & David Turner Bradyn Reilly, Di Taylor & Graham Reilly

Jennings & Reidy combine for victory

Thursday social bowls at the Robe Bowling Club was sponsored by The Robe Caledonian Inn. Twenty members played two bowl pairs. There were 3 x2 game winners, third on 57 points were Stephen Kennett and Trevor Wagner,second on 59 points were Steve Farrell and Paul Truelove and the winners of the vouchers were Errol Jennings and Terry Reidy on 62 points.

Two plusses on the outward nine along with four on the better inward score got her over the line ahead of Wilson off 35 who had four plusses on the outward nine and three on the inward relegating her to second spot.

Bev Pascoe off 30 was not far behind signing for -1 and was also involved in a countback from Lee Anderson off 41. Pascoe had three plusses, four wipes and 13 squared holes.

Nearest to the pin winners on the 16th were Josie Ashby (Div 1) and Carol Melhuish (Div 2). Pro-shot winner was Karen Panagopoulos on the 5th. Novelty prizes were won for accurate fairway drives by Sue Agars, birdie/ferret Ashby 16th, and others to have ferrets were Megaw and Panagopoulos 3rd, Cherryl Hill 8th, Wilson 17th.

This week’s competition is the 1st Round of the Metro Bakery and Cafe sponsored Silver Salver in par format.

SORRENTOS CAFE SUMMER TROPHY PAR ROUND WINNERS: (Back)Division

One winners Helen Myers, Carol Megaw & Annette Ford with (front) Division Two winners Front Bev Pascoe, Vivienne Wilson & Lucy Richards

Seventh singles title for Port MacDonnell’s Heather Richards

Port MacDonnell’s Heather Richards has been crowned the Lower South East Bowls Association Ladies Singles Champion of Champions, securing the title for the seventh time at Robe earlier this month.

Heather defeated Lucindale’s Cheryl Ferguson in the first round and then defeated Mount Gambier bowler Kristy Errock and Naracoorte’s RSL Lindy Mark to reach the final against Jill Preston, of Beachport, who defeated Kingston’s Deb Ogilvie in the semi final to reach the final.

In the final Heather was too strong and consistent again for Jill winning 25-12.

Plenty of perfect scores at monthly shoot

Shooters preparing for Australian National Skeet Titles at Mount Gambier Gun Club

The Mount Gambier Gun Club held its monthly competition on February11 in overcast, fine and warm conditions and even though there were some slight wind gusts and a light shower the shooters still obtained some perfect scores.

The opening event was the Elders Rural Supplies 50 Tgt Skeet Championship.

This competition was enthusiastically shot as the shooters were aiming to hone their accuracy skills preparing themselves for the upcoming Australian National Skeet titles being held in Wagga Wagga next month,

A grader’s Kevin Mules and Liz Rymill both shot a perfect 50/50 showing their expertise, B grade was tied with Tristan McKinnon and Joe Densley both scoring a credible 45/50 and Tom Jenkins 47/50 just edged out Warren Lindner 46/50 to win C.

The A J’s Refrigeration 25 Tgt Handicap event was exceptionally well shot.

With a perfect score Andrew Hoare 25/25 won outright and after a shoot off as six shooters shot 24/25, Daniel Robinson 37/38 was placed second followed by Tom Weir 36/38, Willis Jenkins 32/34 and Stuart Bowd 31/34.

The Blue Lake Golf Club 30 Tgt Champion of Champions was up next and this event was again shot enthusiastically with competitors again attaining some high scores and shoot offs were needed in all grades.

Andrew Hoare in fine form 49/50 won AA from Gavin Height 72/75, Tom Jenkins 71/75 won A grade easily from Ken Atkin 65/75, Tim Lloyd 47/50 won B from Denis Blok 67/75, Daniel Robinson 41/50 took out C grade from Garry Allison 62/75.

South East golf veterans tackle seaside course

A wonderful field of 78 veteran golfers turned up at Robe to tackle its very challenging course. Pins were tight in behind bunkers, the shrubbery alongside the fairways were unforgiving, meaning lots of lost balls, but the weather was perfect. Three players recorded a 37 and from there the remaining scores tapered off quickly. First Division was won by a local, “Big” Kev Otten on a countback from another local Wally Altschwager, and third was Terry Chant being counted out. Second Division went to the old stalwart Bruce Packer, from Millicent, with 32 points, then Mount Gambier’s Mark Teakle’s 29 won a countback from Peter Bateman. The five NTPs were Wayne Peters, Kevin Cook, Mike Atwell, Ken Whitehead and Terry Chant. The ball rundown was to 29 and the Ross Orchard Trophy was won by secretary Russ Lingham and Dave Douglas. Dodging the Southern Ports week the next outing is now on March 6 at Blue Lake, then in another three weeks the AGM will be held at Mount Gambier on March 27 - an ambrose. The SE Golf Vetgerans are still seeking a vice captain in our

The South East Autotrade Highgun award over the three events was successfully won by Tom Jenkins with a great score of 118/125. The next monthly competition will

Buckley gets the job done on Caves Road

Kidman just pipped in a sprint to the line in round three of the Summer Series

The third race in Mount Gambier Cycling Club’s 2023 Summer Series was raced along a 30km out and back circuit at Caves Road. Nineteen riders prepared for the opportunity to race, with a cross wind expected to play a role, particularly in the run to the finish.

Before the senior riders began their race, three junior riders took to the road for their 10km race. Molly Opperman was first away, followed 75 seconds later by the pairing of Ethan McKenny and Sean Tye. The young riders continued to improve their race craft, with Ethan pulling away in the final kilometre to finish ahead of Sean, and then Molly.

Following the completion of the junior race, the senior riders prepared for their race. First away was a group consisting of Graham O’Gorman, Dianne Major, and Jason Buckland. They were given a 10 minute head start over the next group that included Ainsley Curtis, Troy Mustey, Jen Buckland, Dave Delaland and Michael Dethmore. A further three minutes elapsed before the next group, consisting of Dean Zeven, Spek Peake, David Tye and Chris Kennett, began their chase, followed another three minutes later by the second last group which included Elmer

Motorsport partnership

Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) has revved up its involvement in the high-speed world of motorsports, announcing a new partnership with the Repco Supercars Championship.

SEN will bring the excitement and drama of Supercars races to listeners across Australia and New Zealand, becoming the Official AM Radio Partner of the Repco Supercars Championship and Supercars Promoted Events.

Motorsport enthusiasts can now experience every heart-pumping moment of the 12 races in the calendar across the SEN Network and SEN App, starting with the Thrifty Newcastle 500 on March 10 and ending with the nail-biting conclusion of the VALO Adelaide 500, including the prestigious Repco Bathurst 1000.

This partnership solidifies SEN’s dedication to delivering in-depth motorsports coverage, adding to its already robust lineup that includes the popular motorsport podcast ‘The Driver’s Seat’ with Steve Johnson and Matthew MacKelden, which is also one of the network’s most highlydownloaded apps.

The Repco Supercars Championship is the premier motorsport category in Australasia, widely recognised as the best touring car category in the world and a leader in motorsport entertainment.

Sports Entertainment Network CEO Craig Hutchison said he was excited to bring all the high-speed Supercars action to the SEN network. “This is a significant milestone for SEN and a testament to our commitment to providing our listeners with the best in motorsport coverage and further demonstrating SEN as the home of sport,” Hutchison said. “We look forward to working with Repco Supercars Championship to deliver unrivalled live commentary, race analysis, and behind-the-scenes coverage to fans across Australia and New Zealand.”

Supercars CEO Shane Howard said the partnership was a win for motorsport fans. “We are thrilled to have this deal in place with SEN and bring the excitement of Supercars to listeners across Australia and New Zealand,” Howard said. “With SEN as our Official AM Radio Partner, we are confident that fans will get an even greater experience of all of our events.

“This partnership solidifies our commitment to providing coverage to fans everywhere and brings the drama of Supercars races to the forefront for motorsport enthusiasts.

“We look forward to working with SEN to deliver live radio commentary, race analysis, and behind-the-scenes coverage across the year.”

Buckland, Patrick Langsmith, Colin Weatherill, Malcolm Tirabassi and Craig Andrae. The final pairing of Nick Kidman and Jami Buckley waited a further two minutes before they were allowed to begin chasing everyone else down, a monumental 18 minutes later than the first group.

As the riders made their way to the turnaround point, a tailwind early had some riders unable to hold on to their groups, exacerbated by a cross-headwind once the road turned southwards. Out in front Di and Jason made the turnaround marker first, but as they began the journey back to the finish line they were able to see how much of their earlier lead had been eroded. The back pairing were slowly but surely reeling in each of the other groups, with Elmer, Patrick, Craig, Chris and Malcolm keeping up as they passed, and with 6km to go caught and passed Di Major to assume the lead of the race.

In the sprint to the line Jami Buckley was able to finish ahead of Nick Kidman to take first and fastest time, then Elmer Buckland, Craig Andrae, Chris Kennet, Malcolm Tirabassi, Patrick Langsmith, Dean Zeven, Troy Mustey, Michael Dethmore, Ainsley Curtis, Jen Buckland, Dave

Murray Bridge get the better of South East team

RESULTS

Winning Ladies - Leanne Graetz &

Runners Up - Barb Williams &

Winning men- Ray Rossiter & Alan Schultz

Runners Up - Mikael Saye & Peter Brennan

The next event will be held at Blue Lake Sports Park at 11am on March 19.

Delaland, Di Major, Jason Buckland, David Tye, Colin Weatherill, Spek Peake and Graham O’Gorman.

SENIOR PODIUM: (Above) Elmer Buckland (3rd), Jami Buckley (1st and fastest) & Nick Kidman (2nd)

JUNIOR RIDERS: (Left) Molly Opperman, Sean Tye & Ethan McKenny

Twenty-two South East Senior Tennis players travelled to Lucindale earlier this month to participate in a tennis challenge with eight Murray Bridge players in good conditions. The Annual Challenge Cup was strongly contested and was won by Murray Bridge.

Michelle Saye

Trish Douglas