Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 12 April 2023

Rate rise of 3.5% Leaders summit

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

ARATEhike of 3.5 per cent -the maximum under the state government cap -and ahugesurplus are the main points from the proposed Latrobe City Council draft budget.

Council met on Monday, April 3to approve the public release of the 2023/24 annual Latrobe City Budget Draft.

In the budget, council confirmed a 3.5 per cent increase in overallrates and charges. Waste chargeshave also increased and are set to rise by $12.50 (three per cent) per standard set of three bins. This increase incorporates the state government landfilllevy due to inflation and increased cost of waste processing.

Before December 31 each year, the Minister for Local Government setsthe localcouncil rate cap for the next financial year.The rate cap is the maximum

amount acouncil can increase general rates and municipal charges. The state government announced council rate cap rises of up to 3.5 per cent last year. All councilsare expected to use the full extent of the rate rise.

Carriedunanimously, the motion was passed to allow the public to scrutinise the proposed financial plan.

CouncillorDarren Howe said: “Each year we go through this [budget] process and it’s never an easy process.”

At council, Cr Dale Harriman explained the reason behind the rise in charges.

“The increases for the waste charges incorporate the increase in the state government landfill levy imposed on councils. It is oneofmanystategovernment chargesimposed on acouncil that we have to pass on to ratepayers,” he said.

The year’s budget predicts an operating surplus of $7.5 million, off the back of a$150.9million total revenue, $92.1 million of which would come from the rise in rates and charges.

The draft budget also includes the capitalworks program, consisting of a$43.8 million investment in projects across the Latrobe Valley. Capital works include upgrading the Marshalls Rd/Traralgon-Maffra Rd intersection, flood recovery projects, completion of Stage 1ofthe Gippsland Logistics Precinct, and new energy projects that supportthe region’s economic transition.

As this budget is still in draft, council will allow publicsubmissions for amonth starting from April 4until May 52023. Council encourages the community to voice their concerns and opinions. Cr Graeme Middlemiss, speaking to

the gallery, encouragedthe public to takeahard look at theproposedbudget

“Basically you will see where every cent that this council takes in is spent, where allyourmoney goes and what services you get in return, and this will give you an opportunity to comment on that,” he said.

The budget will be adopted by June 30.

For information or to make asubmission, visit: yoursay.latrobe.vic.gov.au/ budget

Hard copiesofthe draft budgetare available for viewing at council service centres.

Council service centres are located in Morwell,Traralgon, Moe and Churchill.

For locations, visit council’s website.

Anyone who makes asubmission will be provided the opportunity to speak to their submission at acouncil meeting on Monday, May 15.

Adam Hogan had the

Delburn wind to power ahead

LATROBE Valley residents have lost their fight to stop the proposed 200 megawatt Delburn wind farm in the Strzelecki Ranges.

The Supreme Court found that the Victorian Planning Minister’s permit for the wind farm was valid.

Acommunity group, Strezlecki Community Alliance, had challenged the approval of the Delburn wind farm, alleging permits breached a local planning requirement not to build wind farm infrastructurewithin five kilometres of the urban areasofMoe, Morwell and Traralgon.

Supreme CourtJustice MelindaRichardsfound no part of the wind farm was within 5km of the three towns.

“Thepermits granted by the Ministeron27 March 2022 are not contrary to the five kilometre prohibition in clause 52.32 of the Latrobe Planning Scheme,” Justice Richards wrote in her decision.

“The proceeding must therefore be dismissed.”

Peter Marriott, executive director development of the renewable energydeveloper, OSMI Australia, saidhewas pleased with the Supreme Court outcome.

“This providescertaintyfor theDelburnWind Farm to proceed, and we are actively working to bring the project into construction in early 2024,” he said.

“Weare excitedtobeabletoinvest in the region and create local jobs. We are now focused on getting on with building the wind farm and contributing to amuch needed transition to renewable energy for Latrobe Valley and Gippsland.

“The Delburn Wind Farm will produce renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and create local employment.”

Overlooking the site of the dismantled Hazelwood Power Station, the Delburn Wind Farm project on plantation land in the Delburnarea covers the HVP Plantations’ Thorpdale tree farm. The site is generally bounded by Coalville to the north, Thorpdale to the west, Darlimurla to the south, andBoolarra and Yinnar to the east.

OSMI Australia says the Delburn Wind Farm will provide more than 186 full time jobs during constructionand 24 ongoing jobs during its 30-year operational life. With acommitment to hiring locals, the wind farm will deliver economic benefits for local suppliers, contractors, businesses and accommodation providers, the company says.

Lawyers for the community grouphad argued

By PHILIP HOPKINS

THE state government has begun early consultations on new transmission connections needed for Victoria’s first offshorewindfarms offthe Gippsland coast.

VicGrid has started public consultation in Gippsland on acoordinated approach to new transmission connections that the Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio,saidwere essentialfor offshore wind. VicGrid is abody within the Department of Energy,Environment and Climate Change thatcoordinates the overarching planning and development of Victorian renewable energy zones.

The move comes as the Victorian Farmers Federation has formed anew energy and transmission taskforce to lead its advocacy on renewable energy and transmission infrastructure development and give farmers asay in the process.

The new taskforce, which includes Gippsland VFF president Hamilton Gerrand, will focus on providing aunitedadvocacy approachfor farmingcommunities that are battling the proposed developments.

Decision made: Justice Richards has ruledthe Victorian Planning Minister’s permit forthe Delburn Wind Farm is valid.

over the proximity of the proposed site to the Latrobe Valley’s main towns, but also that nearby towns of Newborough, Boolarra, Yinnar, Thorpdale, Delburn and Mirboo North were part of agreater Latrobe City and should be included in the buffer zone.

Strezlecki Community Alliance’s counsel, Paul Connor, told the court last week that this was not acase where wind energy facilities were on trial.

“They’re important assets for our state in terms of providing renewable energy, but they do have significant offsite impact,” he said.

Residents also expressedsafetyconcerns the 33 turbines could preventaerial support in the bushfire prone area.

Mr Connor said the community group was open to relocating some of the turbines further from the three towns, which he defined as aregional city under the relevant legislation.

While the planning scheme recognised MoeNewborough as asingleurban settlement, there was no mention of Newborough or the other towns in the planning schemeclauseregarding wind farm proximity requirements,JusticeRichards’ decision read.

Friendsofthe Earthwelcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, saying building awind farm in aplantation site is an effective way to protect the natural environment as the plantation is already ahighly modified industrial site.

“Our energy system is changing, the Latrobe Valley has aproud history of energy production anditisgreat to see that the Valley will continue to play apart in Victoria’s energy production.”

Latrobe Valleyresidentand communityorganiser

for Friends of the Earth Melbourne, Wendy Farmer said.

Trevor Hore, fromthe local resident’sgroup Strzelecki Sustainable Futures,saidhis group had campaigned for many years in support of the wind farm.

“Wewelcomethe court’s decision to validate the planning permit and are looking forward to seeing the wind farm constructed,” he said.

Speaking after the court decision, Mr Marriott saidthe Delburn Wind Farm wouldwork with the community to ensure it delivers long term benefits to the surrounding communities.

“We invite community members to join our community consultative committee to help shape the generous neighbourhood profit-sharing scheme and community development fund,” Mr Marriott said.

“We want the local community to determine how the neighbourhood profit share scheme should be shared.This includes delivering about $500,000 per annum directly to the neighbourhood area near the wind farm, on top of the committed $150,000 community fund per annum.

“We also want to hear from any residents who are concerned or opposedtothe wind farm development -it’snot too late to discuss yourconcerns, ask questions and let us work with you to share information and understanding.”

The company says information updates are an important part of the Delburn Wind Farm community engagementprogram, and will increase in frequency as the wind farm project develops. For furtherinformation, visitdelburnwindfarm. com.au

The state government has set targets for at least two gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2032, 4GW by 2035 and 9GW by 2040, which will involve billions in investment.

Ms D’ Ambrosio said for the offshore wind industry to thrive and to ensure capacity to power the state as ageing coal-fired generators retire, “we need new connections to carry this renewable energy to homes and businesses across the state”.

VicGrid’s task is to ensure new transmission is available in time to support Victoria’s first offshore wind farm, coordinate planning to avoid a‘spaghetti effect’ of multiple lines criss-crossing the landscape and minimise energycosts for households and businesses.

Ms D’AmbrosiosaidTraditional Owners,communities and stakeholders across Gippsland needed to be at the heart of the work.

VicGrid, which will lead four phases of ongoing public engagement, has prepared adevelopment and engagement roadmap 2023.

This will provide information on VicGrid’s role and development approach,invite feedback on the approach, and establish ongoingconsultation and coordination arrangements.

Phase1 of the plan will begin immediately, with direct, place-based engagement with Traditional Owners, communities and stakeholders. Only after thisprocess of information sharing willVicGrid start developing preferred optionsfor routes, which will be informed by the feedback received through Phase 1.

Memberfor Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing, said the government wanted to make sure local communities and stakeholders have areal voice in planning this crucial infrastructure so thatit can benefit all Victorians.

VFF president, Mirboo North’s Emma Germano, said farmers needed to be at the centre of this process.

“It’s their livelihoods at risk and it’s their communities that are being torn apart,” she said.

Ms Germano said the taskforce’s focus would be on critical issues involving landaccess and compensation for farmers,while alsolookingat alternatives to overhead powerlines over farms. FormoreinformationonVicGrid’s plans, visit engage.vic.gov.au

Photo: Contributed

Onceina lifetime opportunity

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

NOT many people can say they have met aworld leader, let alone aformer US President.

Newborough’s Lowanna College principal Adam Hogan, can now say just that, as he had the oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to meet PresidentBarack Obama on Wednesday, March 29.

“I would describe it as surreal,” Mr Hogan said. “He was so warm, friendly and just genuine that you sort of fell into aconversation pretty quickly.”

Mr Hogan wasinvited by the event organisers at the Australian Council of Educational Leaders of which Mr Hogan is amember, to attend the event titled ‘anevening with President Obama’ at John Cain Arena in Melbourne.

The former federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, Julie Bishop, hosted the event, to afull stadium of onlookers.

Mr Hogan was initially quite mesmerised at the thought of sharing the same space with the famous US leader.

“It was quite incredible. Ilooked over to the audience acouple of times and he just had everyone encapsulated for the duration,” he said.

Mr Hoganadded: “I thinkhe’s aphenomenal leader and we’re not likely to see aleader of this calibre with his intelligence, vision and humility again in our lifetime.”

President Obama was known as aleader for his warmth and charisma.

“As Isort of approached him,heasked my name he had his hand out to his side and it was one of those big handshakes like you can tell he was ready to shake your hand,” Mr Hogan said.

PresidentObama madeabit of ajokeupon introduction to the Lowanna principal,saying how principals nowadays are getting younger.

President Obama and Mr Hoganwere able to discuss the integral role that education plays today as society continues to change.

Some of President Obama’s key messages thatMr Hogan took were that leadership is like arelay race and no one leader can do it all during their tenure, but it is across generations that we work towards abetter vision and abetter future for humanity.

The former president touched on all aspects of his own career from the tragedy of the Sandy Hook massacre to the implementation of Obama Care and even the Paris Accord.

At the event,the President focused on the

challenges of leadership, the role of democracy and the hope he has for the future.

Regarding the youth of today, President Obama said nottoworry too much about what you want to be, rather think about what you want to do… what positiveimpact you wanttohave, and let that guide you. It will serve both you and the world, better in the long run.

Mr Hogan hopes to pass on the wisdom and knowledge of the former president at the next Lowanna whole school assembly in Term 2.

Whenaskedifhis admiration of President Obama indicateda possible futureinpolitical leadership,MrHogansaid: “I don’t thinkso, I love leadership but mostly supporting people and

making adifference, particularly in education.”

To simply be in the same room as the former President,MrHogan had to sign an agreement and undergosecurity screening, background checks, health checks and aCOVID-19 test.

One of Mr Hogan’s life highlights, the principal willframe the photo capturingthe moment he met President BarackObama, with plans to hangit right next to his four degrees.

President Obama was the 44th president of the United States of America, serving eight years in office.

The Express’ own Les Hogan wasone proud mother when she saw this photo.

COME AND EXPERIENCE WALHALLA GOLDFIELDS RAILWAY!

Spend an unforgettable daywith the familyatWalhalla Goldfields Railway.

Relax and takeinthe breathtaking views as the train winds its way through the spectacular Stringers Gorge on what is consideredone of the country’smost picturesque rail journeys.

Departing the historic Walhalla Station on your one-hour journeyyou will travelthrough the station yards with the sheer,stunning cliff face on one side and the winding Stringers eek on theother side.

nding through the gorge past HappyCreek Stationonyour way wards ThomsonStation youcross venbridges which in themselves

area marvel of engineering before reaching the spectacular Thomson River bridge.

Upon arrival at Thomson Station passengersdisembark and have the opportunity to peruse the station and surroundings beforere-boarding for your return journey.

Fortrain buffs wealso offer aRide in the Cab Experience; for asmall extra fee. Getupfront and experience adifferent perspectivefromthe vantage point of the locomotive cab. See the amazing track work and bridgesand chat to our knowledgeable crew along the way! Upon your return to Walhalla enjoy lunch in our Goods Shed Café, wander through town, takea tour of thegold mine and enjoythe historyofthis previously bustling gold mining town.

Historic: Lowanna College principal Adam Hogan had the opportunityofa lifetime,meeting former US President BarrackObama. Photograph supplied

Morwell shoppers encouraged to shop local

THE Gippsland Line Upgrade has partnered with local businesses located near Morwell Stationto thank them for their patience during the Morwell Station upgrade, and reward shoppers who dip into their hip pockets and supportlocal businesses.

As part of the Morwell Shop Local Easter Competition, three winning shoppers will receive a$200, $100 and $50 voucher respectively to spend at aparticipating store of their choice.

Fifty runner-up prizes of café vouchers -each valued at $10 -are also up for grabs.

To enter the draw,simplyspend $10 or more at a participating store until Friday, April 21 and scan the QR code in store.

Participating local businesses will display Morwell Shop Local signage.

For more details including alistofparticipating traders, terms and conditions, and any updates, visit regionalrailrevival.vic.gov.au/gippsland

Proposed publictoilet plan

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

AT the latest council meeting on Monday, April 3, Latrobe City released the draft Public Toilet Plan for 2023-2033 for public consultation.

The purpose of the plandraft is to provide the community with the opportunity to guide council on what would best constitute council’s $5 million 10-year plan for public toilets.

There are six driving principles in delivering the plan, which is firstly public health and hygiene, the need for safety and privacy, accessibility and inclusion, ease of maintenance,sustainability and clear communication around availability. Latrobe City's plan proposed by policy officers is to provide equitable, safe, accessible, well-maintained and sustainable public toilet infrastructure to support community participation and social inclusion across the Valley. The plan recommends the construction of newtoilet facilities at Churchill CBD, Morwell CBD, Traralgon CBD and Immigration Park (Kernot Lake).

Proposals have been made in the draft to remove some existing facilities based on their poor locationand poor condition,these include toilets at Glendonald Park, Churchill, Moe Town Hall, Morwell Recreational Reserveand Yinnar South Tennis Courts. Council has agreed upon the refurbishment of 10 existing facilities and also the relocation of another threetoilets to better locations nearby.

There hasbeen arecommendationthatcouncil should keep aconsistent design facade across the Valley. Alongside 24-hour facilities in major towns to be Exeloo’s(self-cleaning and vandal proof), baby change table upgrades, better provision of sanitary bins, sharp disposals units, hand soap and grab rails.

New inclusive languagehas also been considered to display‘toilet’, ‘accessible toilet’ or ‘ambulant toilet’ to be in line with the Gender Equality Act

Big Blokes BBQ is back with special guests

By TOMHAYES

THE Big Blokes BBQ is back in 2023, after a three-year hiatus due to COVID.

tives that are directly funded by the local committee.

2020.Inthe officer’s report into public amenities in the Valley,officers found ‘all gender toilets’ help people from the LGBTIQ+ community to feel safe physically and mentally healthy.

Councils are open to public submissions and encourage the public to have their say regarding public toilets in the Valley.

Cr Graeme Middlemiss identified some areas the community could critique at the council meeting.

“I’d say to our community to take aclose look at this report and let us know what your views are. Thisisa forward-looking report for 10 years the question I’d ask of our community is: ‘Do you think you’re getting what you want?’ For instance areall sections of the community comfortable with unisex toilets?”

Cr Darren Howehighlightedthe importance of community engagement.

“We need as many people to get involved with this …the needsofa retired couple in the very different from those of ayoung family children…we are judged not only by our residents but our visitors, Latrobe City is what, an hour ahalf, two hours from Melbourne, and if we travellers to stop and spend time in our great we need to have clean, prepared toilets and them in the right locations,” he said.

The report, released to the public for their back will be accessible for asix-week periodv

‘Have Your Say’ page on the website, social and council noticeboard.

Council will engage withthe Latrobe City Cou Disability Access and Inclusion Communit Engagement Group, Positive Ageing Community Engagement Groupand the Cultural Dive Committee for further public communication feedback.

Shire mayor on advisorypanel

THE state government has announced the Local Government MayoralAdvisoryPanel for 2023, with 13 mayors from across Victoria.

Comprising amix of urban, regional andrural mayors, the group represents the diversity of Victorian communities and joinedwith Minister for Local GovernmentMelissa Horne lastweek for thefirst of four meetings this year.

The panelchangesannuallyand is setupto offer the Minister advice on legislative,regulatory, strategic and policy issues that affect councils across the state.

“The panel plays an integral role as an advisor

on local government matters and local community needs -withamix of urban,regional and mayorsofferingfeedback and advice from Victorian communities,” Ms Horne said.

"I look forward to chairing this important and learning from the experience and advice members will provide throughout the year.”

Baw Baw ShireMayorAnnemarie McCabe on the panel.

This year’s panel is expected to focus its work governance and accountability.

For more information, visit localgovernment.vic. gov.au

On Friday, June 2, one of the region's largest single day fundraising activities will take place, with proceeds hoped to benefit for 12 months or more.

Sincethe event started in 2013,the total amount of money raised is close to $700,000.

One in seven Australian men will develop Prostate Cancer in their life, while 3300 men lose their life to the disease each year.

The Gippsland and Latrobe region has a30 per cent higher mortality ratecompared to other parts of Victoria, one of the highest rates in the country.

Alongsidethe Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia(PCFA),a small committeeof volunteers help run the event.

The PCFA is the major body that co-ordinates research, education, awareness and advocacy against Prostate Cancer.

Aproportion of the moneymadebythe Latrobe Committee is donated to the PCFA, designed for use within the Gippsland region. Previously, money was able to provide a

The committee has funded anumberof activities including research projects through Monash University Medicine, Nursing and Health Services, local awareness campaigns, research projects and financial assistance to aid the purchase of specialist equipment in local hospitals. There has never been agreater time to raise awareness for this disease, since the impacts of COVID has resulted in areported decrease in men seeking medical advice.

From 11am to 4.30pm at the Gippsland Sports and Entertainment Park (Falcons Park), Latrobe's Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ will be in action.

Tables of 10 cost $1500, which include all food, drinks and entertainment.

Specials guests include comedian Tom Siegert (the Suburban Footballer), Collingwood legend Peter Daicos and Hawthorn premiership player Campbell Brown.

Daicos played 250 games for Collingwood, and kicked 549 goals in acareer spanning from1979to1993.Hewas amemberofthe drought breaking 1990 premiership, and was ability to kick freakish goals games for Hawthorn, as Coast between 2002 and bookings and enquires, info@lvbigblokesbbq.com. points of contact include llen (0412 527 146), Alfi (0412 747 476),Ian (0418 513 808), Adrian 437 019 873) and Mark (0439 750 088).

Master Builders Victoria calls for urgent review of Domestic Building Contracts Act

MASTER Builders Victoria (MBV) is calling for an urgent review of Victoria’s Domestic Building Contracts Act, in the wake of yet another highprofile building company collapse.

Last week, liquidators were called in when one of the nation’s largest home builders, Porter Davis collapsed leaving 1500 unfinished projects in Victoria and 200 more in Queensland.

Afurther 779 customers who had signed a contract and paid adeposit were also affected, along with 410 staff who were made redundant last Friday morning.

Master Builders Victoria interim chief executive Michaela Lihou, has called for areview of the Domestic Building Contracts Act, saying the current lack of flexibility in fixed priced contracts is placinganunrealisticstrangleholdonbuilders, which also ultimately negatively impacts consumers, rather than protecting them.

“The rigid lack of flexibility in these contracts, on top of supply, skills and labour shortages, as well as inflation and interest rate rises are continuing to impactthe building and constructionindustry,” she said.

“MBV wants to see an urgent review of the Domestic Building Contracts Act (1995) to include cost escalation clauses and to review the staged payments.”

“Our argument is simple. Areview of acontract, whichmay include some fair and reasonable price rises based on data, is better than an unrealistic fixed contract which drives abuilder into awall.

“Nobody wins when abuilder collapses, obviously includingconsumers who clearlyaren’t being protected by fixed contracts when they end up with an unfinished build or no home."

Ms Lihou saidthe current payment structure

within the building and construction industry also needed to be reviewed to better reflect how builders deal with current industry challenges and their impacts on cash flow.

The Domestic BuildingContracts Act (1995) currentlyoutlines payment percentages for projects valued at more than $20,000 depending on the stage of the build -deposit (5 per cent), base (10 per cent), frame (15 per cent), lock-up (35 per cent), fixing(25 percent)withafinal paymentof10 per cent.

“The shortages in labour and materials slow down the building process and also the stages where builders can legally ask for payment,which challenge abusiness’scashflow and potential viability,” Ms Lihou said.

“Now is the time to review those locked in percentages to better reflect current building practices and what builders realistically need to undertake projects and keep them moving, right through until they’re delivered.”

Ms Lihousaid despite the challengesthroughout the pandemic, thebuilding andconstruction industry has largely remained strong and resilient.

“The building and construction industry is the backbone of the state’s economy, contributing to more than 56 per cent of Victoria’s state taxation revenue and supplying the equivalent of more than 12 per cent of our gross state product,” she said.

“But there is no denyingitistough and will continue to be so until we have asystem and legislation that adequately and realistically reflects how the industry operates.

“Consumers obviously need to be protected, but the currentsystem just isn’t working,and areview is urgently needed!”

New wage policy strikes responsible balance

THE state government has confirmed the framework for futureenterprise agreementswith the state’s public sector workers, underanupdated wages policy.

Minister for Industrial Relations Tim Pallas last week released details of the new Victorian Public Sector Wages Policy, whichincreasesthe wages component fromthe current 1.5 percentper annum to afunded annual increase of three per cent. In addition to annual wage increasesthere is also the ability for workers to obtain alump-sum sign on bonus equal to up to 0.5 per cent of overall agreementcosts.

Public sector employers will also be able to seek productivityimprovements and efficiencies which can generate additional entitlements.

“Our public sector workers do agreat job serving their fellowVictorians and we’re proud to support them,” Mr Pallas said.

“In addition to wage increases, workers will be able to obtain asign-on bonus while productivity

improvements will bring the potential for further advancement of conditions”

“The policy providesfair outcomes for employees while being responsible as we deal with the types of budget challenges faced by families, businesses andgovernments across the world.”

The policy strikes abalance between providing fair outcomes for valued public sector employees and protecting the widerinterests of Victorians as the economy continues its steady rebound from the effects of the pandemic.

The government’s four-step fiscal planison track to return the Budget to surplus following unprecedented investments that were required to protect Victorianlives andlivelihoods -the Victorian Budget 2023/24 will continue this work.

The new policy willapply immediately, including to public sector enterprise agreements that have already reached their nominal expiry dates, and where bargaining for replacement agreements is already underway.

PROUDLYBROUGHT TO YOUBYTHESE PARTICIPATINGLOCAL BUSINESSES

Crossword Puzzle No.8529

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. Not including the Jokers, how many playing cards areina standarddeck?

2. Stevie Nicks is the lead singer for which famous musical group?

3. What colour arethe G’sinthe Google logo?

4. Australian Greg Norman was aprofessional in which sport?

TWO POINTERS

5. 2023Chinese New Year is know as the ‘Year of the ...’ what animal?

6. Spinach is high in which mineral?

7. The hardwhite material of elephant tusks is called what?

8. What two bones connect the elbow and wrist?

THREE POINTERS

9. What nut is used to make marzipan?

10. Which country is hosting this years Rugby WorldCup?

11. What is it called when abottle of champagne is open with asword?

12. What’sthe total number of dots on apair of dice?

FOUR POINTERS

13. What is Africa’shighest mountain?

14. What type of legal defence is derived from the Latin word meaning “elsewhere”?

FIVE POINTER

15. What arethe 5elements on the periodic table that have 4 letters? One point for each correct answer

Target Time No.0153

Howtoplay...

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or morecan youlist? The centreletter must be included and each letter may be used only once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words

Sudoku No.0153

Howtoplay.

Fill the grid so that everyrow and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1to9 Solution next Wednesday.

Communitytosupport‘Walk WithChop’

THE Moe community will gather this Sunday to honour the legacy of the late Riley Pearce. Awalk/runhas been organised by the Pearce/ Walshfamily and Mindfull Aus.

Riley ‘Choppy’ Pearce courageously battled with mental health illness for some time. Choppy’s determination and courage throughout his battle and his lived experience of this illness,allowed him to help and assist others in their own battle with mental health.Choppywas avivid mentalhealth campaigner and the legacy he has left behind was evidentwhenmanyfamily, friends, and the wider community came together to farewell Choppy, and share their stories, afterhetragicallytookhis own life in January 2021, aged 17.

The devastating effectofChoppy’s deathwas felt across the whole community, and it was at this horrific time all came to know just how many people Choppy supported through their dark times, as many came forward about their own struggles with mental illness.

Theinaugural ‘WalkWithChop’ fundraiser has been arrangedtonot only honour Choppy, but to assist Mindfull Aus in continuing to empower the youthoftoday so they can enjoy abetter tomorrow.

“Choppy, we miss you dearly, and as much as it hurts us all to know the pain you must have been suffering, your legacy is our strength, and we will endeavour to honour thisforever.Weloveyamate,” the Pearce family said.

All participants of the walk must register ($25) and will receive their customWalkWith Chop event T-Shirt from the Mindfull Aus Boothonthe dayand gettheir own fundraising page.

You can register using this link: walkwithchop. gofundraise.com.au/cms/home

Participants will not be able to take place without registration on the day.

The walk/run commences from 9.30am at Moe Botanical Gardens this Sunday (April 16).

The walk is six kilometres and the run 14km. Abarbecueand coffee van will be there on the day. Live music by Mat ‘Tezmo’ Howlett Music.

Raffle tickets will be available for purchase on the day. This will be drawn on Saturday, May 13 at the Moe versus Traralgon Mindfull Aus Mental Health Round in the Gippsland League. Refreshments will also be available at the Moe Tennis Club following the event.

If you or your business would liketosupport the event, email Mindfull Aus via admin@mindfullaus. org.

If you or someone you know is suffering, phone Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Final farewell for Connection

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

TO the sorrow of the community,the beloved Yallourn North Connection newsletter released its final farewell edition last month.

The Connection became apaper synonymous with Yallourn North, which celebrated the township and facilitated community participation.

In its 52 editions since 2017, the Yallourn North papercovered everything concerningthe community from sporting wins to record-breaking Christmas light displays.

AnthonyWasiukiewicz, the Editor and the mastermindbehind the publication, started the paper out of a“necessity” to keep the community up to date.

“I was doing alot of community work at the time, you get to chat with alot of people and there was a little bit of frustration where you’d have an event or some sort of gathering or ANZAC day …but people would find out after the fact,” he said. When asked why he loves Yallourn North so much. Mr Wasiukiewicz said: “I can seethe potential,Igrewupduring the power station privatisation era so everything was cut back and when Ifinished school Icouldn’t wait to see the tail end of the place.”

Having come back to Yallourn North about 12 years ago, Mr Wasiukiewicz saw apositivechange with new developments and lovely people, and wanted to celebrate thatchangeashesays Yallourn North often undersells itself. Mr Wasiukiewicz is known to manynot only in Yallourn Northbut acrossthe Valley for his community work and volunteering.

The whole Wasiukiewicz family has contributed to Yallourn North for decades. Ever since the family emigrated to Yallourn North from Eastern Europe in the ’40s they have helped volunteer and fundraise for the community. As alittle boy, Mr Wasiukiewicz was forced by his parents to mow the lawns for the Yallourn North Lions Club, and from then on has never stopped giving to the

community. On any odd daywhenhe’snot working as ahandyman, you will catch Mr Wasiukiewicz walking along the roads of the town collecting litter. As he says “somebody has got to do it.”

But one man can’t do it all.

“Over the last few years things have been fairly hectic... I’ve done the communityvolunteering thing for about 12 years so I’ve been heavilyinvolved and I’m just at astage where something needs to be pulled back and you know the Connection is such abig undertaking,” he said.

“There are sort of mixed feelings like there’s almost alittle bit of relief that Ihave abit more free time …but also asadness because Ijust got so much support.”

The Yallourn North Connection hasbecome quite the operation, starting with only Mr Wasiukiewicz, who would source the information, write the newsletter, find somewhere to print it and deliver it himself with the help of his mother Teresa.

The newsletter grew rapidly with delivery to nearby towns. The connection had over 20 deliverers, with contributed articles from across the Valley and many local business advertisements.

In the farewelleditionofthe Connection,Mr Wasiukiewicz thanked all those that helped him publish the newsletter.

“If it wasn’t for all the positivefeedback that has been received over the years Iwould have given up long ago,” he said.

WhileMrWasiukiewicz is takingawell-deserved break from the Connection, he hopes to release aChristmas edition to commemorate the light displays that Yallourn North is known for.

TheYallournNorth Connectionwill be dearly missed by all.

If you would still like to keep up to date with the Yallourn North community, head to facebook.com/ yallournnorthvic/

The Yallourn North Facebookpage is run by Mr Wasiukiewicz. The page continues to act as a community noticeboard.

Neverforgotten: Moe footballerswearing special t-shirts in memory of Riley‘Choppy’ Pearce beforetheir match againstTraralgon last year File photograph

Not hateful to admitmales(and)

IT was goodtoread HarrietShing (LatrobeValley Express April 5) speak of the kindness of LGBTIQ+ communities.

Kindness and asense of afair go is as Australian as Vegemite, and many community groups act kindly.

But Iwas disappointed that Ms Shing labelled Moira DeemingMPashavingabhorrent views because she spoke at aLet Women Speak event “attended by neo-Nazis”.

The neo Nazis were not invited,they gatecrashed.

Someaccused Deeming, aMaori raisedbyher Holocaust survivor Jewish uncle, of Nazismand white supremacy.

Asexual assaultvictim,she has supporters from the LGBTIQ+ community, something Ms Shing did not mention.

Ihave been reading for sometime now about biological females claiming how unfairitisthat biological males identifying as female beat them hands downinsporting events.

Iknow from my time in the military that the fitness tests for males and females were different.

Thisacknowledged the physicaldifferences between the XX &XYchromosomes of the sexes.

It’s not hateful to acknowledge biological differences and ask for fairness in competitive sports.

Ihave also been reading about males identifying as females which has resulted in instances of females being sexually assaulted in change rooms and toilets.

That’s not to judge all by the few, that would be wrong. However, wouldn’t it be helpfultohave some discussion about women who feel vulnerable, or who have been assaulted in these situations, to see what we can do about it.

We as acommunity believe violence against women is unacceptable.

Idon’t believe it is abhorrent to raise concerns like that

Randell Green

Traralgon

Crisis times

HOMELESSNESS in Victoria has surged astaggering 24 percentinjust fiveyears, and datafrom the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows2783peopleinLatrobe accessed Specialised Homelessness Services(SHS) last financial year -more than any other regional municipality in Victoria.

This data is damning,and it doesn’t even account for the huge number of people and families who are sleeping in their cars, couch surfing, living in motels, or finding temporary respite in overcrowded dwellings.

These people are slipping through the cracks, and our local support services do apower of work, but they are stretchedthinand not adequately resourced to meet demand.

Acombination of factors -the skyrocketing cost of living, scarcity of private rentals, long wait lists for public housing and the collapse of several building companies have combined to create aperfect storm. We have ahigher rate of people accessing Specialised Homelessness Services than anywhere else in regional Victoria, and we need immediate relief on the ground in theform of bricks and mortar.

The state government allocated aminimum of $60 milliontothe Latrobe Valley when its Big Housing Build was announced more than two years ago, andIamcalling on the Minister for Housing to provide an immediate update about construction of homes in the Valley and acomprehensiveproject delivery timeline.

In addition to the dire need for housing and accommodation, full accessibilityneeds to be restored at the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing office in Morwell which is currently open by appointment only.

As ground zero to the housing crisis, it is simply not good enough that people are being referred to a phone service during what is oftenone of the most vulnerable periods of theirlife.

Billions are spent on mega city projects like the Suburban Rail Loop to benefitmetropolitan Melbourne, but when it comes to providing the bare necessities like housing in regional Victoria, the state government goes missing time and time again.

The repeated and chronicunderspendingin regional Victoriahas exacerbatedthe housingand homelessness crisis,and the state government cannot continue to turn ablind eye to such critical issuesjustbecause they arebeyond the Pakenham border.

Martin Cameron Member for Morwell

Regional fares

WITHpetrol prices increasing, Victorians are watching every dollar.

Up until now, adaily full-fare from Geelong to Melbourne cost up to $27.60, while adaily ticket from Bendigo was up to $68.80. With the metro daily rate only $9.20, these fares were just not fair.

That's why we’re capping regional public transport fares at the metro rate.

We are making it easier for familiesand commuters in regional Victoria to leave the car at home and get around by train and bus.

It also ensuresfamilieslivinginrural and regional Victoria can visit family and friends and access vital health and education services in other regional cities and in Melbourne.

We are transforming the way Victorians travel across the state with the regional fare cap now in effect.

That means more money in regional Victorians’ pockets, and more opportunities for families in Melbourne and visitors to the state to explore everything Victoria has to offer.

For thosewho take long-distance V/Line journeys, the regional fare cap willsave peoplemorethan $40 for each and everyjourney on the regional public transport network.

The cap alsoapplies to interstate travel within 60 kilometresofthe Victorian border, to ensure those living in border communities in New South Wales and South Australia benefit as well.

Cheaper fares, comfortable trains and more frequent services -that’s what matters to commuters acrossregionalVictoria, and that’swhat we are delivering.

Ben Carroll Ministerfor Public Transport

Biggerissues at hand

EASTERN VictoriaRegion MP Harriet Shing’s contributed comment in last Tuesday’s LV Express (Shing condemns LGBTIQ+ hate) demonstrated yet another proof of just how disinterestedDan Andrews’ Labor Party are in resolving the many industrial, economic andsocial challenges that we are currently facing in the Latrobe Valley, and also reinforced the need for truly local persons to represent our region in Parliament.

Given all that is happening in the Latrobe Valley at the moment, Isomehow naively expected to be given the latest update on her party’s progress on resolving arange of local issues e.g:

-The imminent closure and loss of jobs and

generating capacity of Yallourn Win2028(400-plus jobs, 1450 MW, providing 20 per cent of Victoria’s power) followed later by Loy Yang Ain2035(600plus jobs, 2210MW, 30 per cent) and Loy Yang B in around 2047;

-The current state of affairsconcerning the recent loss of 200-plus jobs at the APM;

-The closure of our local timber industry, which used to put around $550 million into the Gippsland economy;

-Ourveryhighlocal unemployment figures, which, whenIlastchecked them, stood at 15.3per cent in Morwell, 9.5 per cent in Moe/Newborough and 5.3 per cent in Churchill;

-The loss of $106,927everyday,or$39 million per year, whichisbeing gambledaway in our local pokies venues;

-The disproportionately high crime rate -10,000 crime incidents for every 100,000 of our population, thehighestinany municipality in the state outside Melbourne, with criminal incidents up 6.5 pre cent, and;

-Resolvingquestions regarding the acquisition of valuable farming land and the largescale clearing of public forests by the government in order to provide atransmission line easement from the proposed coastal wind farms to Loy Yang or Hazelwood, sorting out access to properties, and identifying appropriate compensation for the loss of this land.

Instead, our ‘local’ member used the space to opportunistically attack one of her Melbourne-based Parliamentaryadversaries, Ms Moira Deeming, for the crime of attending and speaking at acity rally that happenedtobegatecrashedbymembersof Antifa, the Socialist Left and some black shirted neo-Nazis, none of whom she endorsed or had connections with.

This matterhas since been sorted out by her [Deeming’s] party.

As Harrietcorrectly points out, regional Victorians certainly are awelcoming and kind community of people who do overwhelmingly accept diversity in all its forms, in particular the LGBTIQ+ community.

No-one Iknow would argue that as fellow Victorians,these groups are certainly deserving of the respect, support and protection that we currently enjoy.

However, given the multitude of equally pressing local issues, some of which Ihave detailed above, Harriet, as ourlocal member, needstofocusless on Melbourne personalities, issues and political point scoring, and instead work more visibly to resolve theselocal issues whichthreaten to reduce the Latrobe Valley to aregional wasteland.

Greg Hansford Newborough

Worthreading

AS an aid to readers who may be looking for information on the Voice to Parliament and what would change in the Constitution, may Irecommend a greatlittle book called Everything You Need to Know About the Uluru Statement From the Heart by Megan Davis and George Williams, published by UNSW Press.

The book is in roughly three sections, starting with what is currently contained in the Constitution regarding Indigenous peoples and the changes made as aresult of the 1967 Referendum (namely being counted in the Census and Federal Parliament being the only body able to make laws in respectofIndigenouspeoples) not stateorterritory governments.

The secondpart deals withthe extensive

consultations, meetings andsubmissions collected fromaroundthe countryonissuespertinent to the statement and voice process.

Lastly, the book discusses the statementand how aVoice would change the Constitution plus, truth-tellingand treaty neither of which require achangetothe Constitution.

Any government may set-upatruth telling commission or sign atreaty with their Indigenous peoplewhenever they want- (the Victorian government is in the process of doing just that).

Acouple of scenarios of how avoicemight be constituted are suggested as aguide,but the final make-up of the body is left to federal parliament to decide after the referendumvia enablinglegislation

Disclaimer: Iamnot of Aboriginal or Torres Strait heritage, do not know the authors and have no connection to UNSW Press.

This bookisjust agood informative read and should be available at the local library.

Judith Stone Cowwarr

Amathematical certainty

THERE is ascene in the 1997 film Titanic where the ship's builder, Mr Andrews, says to the ship's owner, Mr Ismay, and just after 'Titanic' has collided with an iceberg in themiddle of the North AtlanticOcean:"From this moment,nomatter what Ido, Titanic will founder."

Startled,MrIsmay replies: "But this shipcannot sink!" Mr Andrews: "She is made of iron sir! Iassure you she can and she will it is amathematical certainty."

That all happened on April 15, 1912, after the Captain of Titanic constantlyignored repeated iceberg warnings leading up to the night of the tragic sinking, and recklessly ordered "Full speed ahead ..."

Fast forward to 2022 and the repeated warnings of AEMO(AustralianEnergyMarket Operator) and other expertsondramatic energy shortfalls and the 'mathematical certainty' of rolling blackouts this winter within the context of the economy-wrecking orders of 'full speedahead'(in other words,the closing down of coal-fired power stations to usher in the new era of renewables) of PM Anthony Albasleezy and climate change and EnergyMinister, Chris 'BlackoutBowen', and history is about to repeat itself.

Joseph Lis Morwell

Everyaction counts

THE IPCCSynthesis Report released recently provided more terrifying insights into the gravity of the climate crisis facing our world.

Climate change is worsening butwestill have the means to act.

We must all rise to the greatest challenge of our times and realise that we are the generation that will determine humanity’s fate.

Now is not the time to look away thinking that what you do as an individual doesn’t make a difference.

Now is not the time to sit on the sidelines. Togetherwecan create the change we want to see in the world. So much is at stake.

Jane Sultana

Moe

Becoming irrelevant

SIMONBirmingham (South AustralianLiberal Senator) has called for urgent action to confront

females differ

the dangerous perception that the Liberal party is “intolerant, nasty and divisive”.

Well to that you can now add racist.

By adopting a'no' stance on thequestion of avoice to Parliament, the Liberals will continue to rush on down the road they followed in their campaign for the seat of Aston and further underscore their irrelevance to modern Australia.

Barry Callinan Traralgon

Graveconcerns

FRIENDS of Latrobe Water has areal concern with release of the National Pollution Inventory (NPI) data recently. AGL's three power stations increased their combined emissions of mercuryby29per cent. That’s astaggering 1050kg mercury in one year. And addstoAGL’s increasesthe previous year of 31 per cent, 76 per cent and 31 per cent respectively.

Compared to NSW, ourthree power stations emit almost five times more mercury than their top five stations, which together emit 216kg ayear.

Despite an eight per cent dropinelectricity generation, justone power station,AGL'sLoy Yang, increased its mercury emissions by 31 per cent.

Why is this so? Could it be that, unlike NSW,our power stations don’t have the fabric bag filters that NSW have that would catch the mercury?

So why hasn’t the EPA required them to install bag filters?

Well,here’s the reason: the Great Big Get Out Clause!

Under the EPA Act’sGeneral Environmental Duty,the power generatorsmusttake“reasonably practicable” action to eliminate or minimise risks of harm.

However, what is “reasonably practicable” includes the cost to install the filters compared to how effective it would be in reducing harm.

If the powergenerators say that it’s too expensive to install them, that could be an excuse for doing nothing to stop the pollution.

If this is so, then it is quite clear that the new EPA law is not protectingusfrom serious harm to our health and our environment.

Meanwhile, tonnesofmercury, which winds can carry 1000kms, is airborne over Gippsland, settling in waterways, water tanks, on vegetable farms and playgrounds.

The recentinclusion of mercury as apotential carcinogen recognisesmercury as one of the world’s most dangeroustoxins. There is no known safe exposure level.

Converted to methylmercury, it can cause fetal defects and neurological problems in growing children. Beware! Take Care! Don’t drink the water!

Don’t eat the fish! Don’t breathe the air!

Butwhatexactlyisthe cost of the filters? Is it millions of dollars or hundreds?And who will pay?

Yep, you guessed it, the cost of no filters is being shifted from the power station owners to you and me. We will bear the health costs to our lives of mercury poisoning just as the people of the Latrobe Valley suffer death and disease from the disastrous Hazelwood Fire.

The pollution regulator, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), is meant to protect us from harm. When it fails to enforce the law, it protects the interests of the power station owners over ours. And in doing so, it acts as the facilitator of our harm. Now that is truly shocking!

Tracey Anton Friends of Latrobe Water (FLOW)

Save the MedicareHeart Health Check

HEART disease is Australia’s leading cause of death and tragically takes the life of one Australian every 30 minutes.

The good news is, heart disease is largely preventable.

The bad news?Our best tool for heart disease prevention -the Medicare Heart Health Check -is about to expire.

We are seekinga guarantee fromthe federal government that funding will continue beyond June 30 this year.

Nearly 440,000 Australians have seen their GP for aMedicaresubsidised Heart Health Check since they were introduced.

The HeartFoundation is asking the government to invest $11.5 million per year, to continue subsidising Heart Health Checks into the future.

This is arelatively small investment compared to the $1 billion in healthcare costs that could be saved with broad uptake of Heart Health Checks in high-risk Australians, and more importantly, the 67,000 heartattacks, strokes and heart disease related deaths that could be preventedover five years.

It’s not too late for your readers to take action.

Iurgeyou to please help us save Medicare Heart Health Checks by signing our petition, writing to local MPs and sharing the petition with friends and family.

To take action,visit heartfoundation.org.au/ save-heart-checks

David Lloyd National Heart Foundation of Australia CEO

Have your say

SOME very strong lettersand opinionpieces in today’ssection, which will no doubt lead to some robust, and equally healthy, discussion.

One of the greatest aspects of acommunity newspaperwill always be its ability to give voices to those who otherwise might not have one.

The Latrobe Valley Express welcomes letters to the editor.

Preference willbegiventobrief, concise letters which address local issues.

The editor Liam Durkin, reserves the right to edit lettersfor reasons of space and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.

The Express does not publish letters from anonymous contributors.

Letters must include aphone number, email address and the author’s hometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity. Readers are entitled to one right of reply to aletter directed at them.

The views expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the viewsofLatrobe ValleyExpress management or staff.

Email letterstonews@lvexpress.com.au and include ‘letter to the editor’ in the subject line. Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm.

Support women’srights

COMMENT BY PAMELA HOWDEN

IAMcompelledtorespond to the Latrobe Valley Express article,'Shingcondemns LGBTIQ+ hate' (29/3/2023).

It is interesting to note Ms Shing condemns women’s rights advocate and rape victim Liberal MP Moira Deeming, and infers Moira is asupporter of neo-Nazis.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

Ms Shing not only believes MoiraDeming is a threat to society, but it appears Ms Shing also believes that advocating for women’s rights and believing in biological reality, now makes you ahater, or worst still aneo-Nazi

It is apparentMsShing, in her demonisation of Moira Deeming, has conveniently ignored the fact many prominent feminists, like author J.K Rowling and Naomi Wolf,haveexpressed serious concerns about the trans rights movement endangering women’s safety and putting women at risk of violence, perpetrated by transgender females.

The fact is some men are declaring themselves women and by doing so give them access to places set up to protect women from male violence,such as women’srefuge shelters, separate toilets and separate prisons. All these placeswereestablishedtokeep women safe, but this is no longer the case.

Politicians are now making it easier for people to changetheir legal sex. This has massive implications for women’s safety.

MoiraDeeming hascourageously and fearlessly raised these grave concerns in an attempt to save women from ferocious violence.

The brutality, hostility and violence against innocent women, recently witnessedacross major citiesand in Auckland at the Kellie Jane Keen, 'LetWomenSpeak' rallies was appalling, very,very frightening and amanifestation of deep hate.

Many women protestors felt their lives were under threat as violent transgender females, who are biologically males, and trans activists thugs inflicted violence on them. This is scandalous!

Where was Ms Shing’s outrage and condemnation against the vile male perpetrators of these horrendous attacks?

Ms Shingbelieves the opinions expressed by Moira Deeming are abhorrent. What is so abhorrent fighting for women’s safety? The biological reality is aman calling himself a woman does not make him awoman.

Men are not women and nobody should be allowed to police our thoughts.

Liberal Party member Katherine Deves is another woman who has been subjected to a tsunami of verbal, emotional and physical bullying at the hands of very brutal trans activists and left wingers.

Katherine was subjected to heinous bullying, simply for calling out the explosion in children wanting to change their gender, the erosions of women and girls’ rights and growing sexualisation of children.

Katherine Deves, like Moira Deeming, should be congratulated for bringing theseissuesto the attention of the public.

Let me be clear, there are definitely some gender dysphoria children, and these children should be supported and respected in their transition and neverbediscriminated against, but we are now seeing children as young as four, who have expressed adesire to change their gender, being set on apath of

social transition, then physical transition. These vulnerable children are placed on powerful puberty blockers. Blockers which someresearchers are finding can have very, veryserious sideeffects. Sideeffects such as severe osteoporosis, emotional disturbances and reduced executive function of the brain.

Revelations comingout after the recent closure of England’s Travistock Children Clinic have revealed some children were placed on powerful, damagingpuberty blockers to change their gender,after only one face-to-face assessment, despite many having mental health or family issues.

These veryimpressionablechildren were toldthey would be happy, if they changed their gender, while the real problems of their confusion were either ignored or dismissed.

BBC journalist Hannah Barnes, hardlyatrans phobic, excellent book Time to think exploresthe rapid rise and phenomenal growth of children changing their gender, is horrific reading.

To call women like Moira Deeming and Katherine Deveshaters for raisingthese extremely seriousconcerns about innocent, powerlesschildren is atrocious andmorally reprehensible.

It also clearly shows,when it comes to transgender rights and ideology, the protection of children is seen as objectionable.

These two women are also correct to call out the very frightening, growingsocio-political concept of sexualisingchildren. No society in history,even the most liberal ones, has allowed sexually explicit knowledge to be propagated to all sections of the community.

The ultimate no-go area in societies throughout history -those with pretensions to decency anyway -isviolating that children’s psychological development and naivety should be protected.

Indulging in arguments about childhood innocence is now seen as something reprehensible.

Some school and council libraries, disguised in progressiveness, are stocking sexually graphic books and marketing them for young children. Very young children have been able to access these books. Some of these books give detailed explanations of sexual practices.

Parents have to be vigilante and constantly check out children’s literature held in school and council libraries.

Furthermore to the growthinsexually explicit children’s books, youonly have to look at the case of Nemis Quinn Melancon, an eight-yearold boy who dresses in drag andperforms at gay strip clubs and gay venues to realise the sexualisation of children is agrowing sociopolitical trend.

Worst still, there are any number of video clips on the internet showing g-string wearing drag queens gyrating in front of five and six-year-old children.

Politiciansare silentwhenconfronted with children performing sexually provocative acts. Silence is complicity.There is nothing politically correct aboutchild drag queens. It is child abuse merely distorted and cloaked in modernism.

MoiraDeeming,Katherine Deves, Kellie Jane Keen, ReneeHeath please, please continue speakingupfor not only women and girls rights and safety, but for our most defenceless, vulnerable, innocent, powerless members of society -children.

Pamela Howden

is aTraralgonresident

G L PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOUBYTHESEPARTICIPATING LOCALBUSINESSES

Monash Rural Health Churchill educators recognised

TWO senioracademicsfromMonash Rural Health Churchill were recently recognised with senior fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (HEA).

Associate Professor Margaret Simmons and Dr Julie Willems both achieved this internationallyrecognised qualification,recognisingtheir innovative approachestoteachingand educational research supporting the next generation of rural health professionals.

For Associate Professor Simmons, working with supportive colleagues and the local community were highlights of her career, showingwhatcan be achievededucationally within arural environment.

“Ruraleducatorscan be at the forefrontofinnovative and cutting-edge learningexperiences for students," she said.

"I have not been fearfuloftrialling new approaches, particularlywith the support of a strong professional andacademic teachingand leadership team Ialsostrongly resist the notion that ‘rural’ is somehow inferior, recognising that we have to continually work for parity and equity for our rural patient and student cohorts.”

Dr Julie Willems has pioneered cutting-edge approaches to distance learning, and been instrumentalinthe rapid pivot of training to online learning during the pandemic.

Through this approach, she has overcome many of the barriers faced in rural areas, and provided professional development to tertiary academics, secondary educators, nurses and supervising doctors involved in teaching others.

“Personally, being awarded senior fellow of the HEA provides me recognitioninthe broader global context- especially when Ihave worked mainly in supportroles to professionally develop others," she said.

"Those contributions to the sector might not be easily recognised.".

Dr Tammy Smith,Director of Education at Monash Rural Health, congratulated the pair on their HEA Fellowships.

"HEA Fellowship is asignificant achievement recognising many years of effort and commitment to teaching and learning at Monash and more broadly," Ms Smith said.

"Dr Willems and Associate Professor Simmons reflect the high calibre of academics joining this well-regarded fellowship group.

"I’d like to congratulate them bothonce again on theirachievement and on their wonderful contribution to education."

In the future, Dr Willems and Associate Professor Simmonsplan to continue to mentor othersin teaching and learning,championing sustainability and supporting marginalisedgroupsin the Gippsland region and beyond.

Candidate nominations now open for Treaty Elections

NOMINATIONS are now open for Traditional Owners of CountryinVictoria to standascandidates for the second term of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.

Theassembly represents Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderpeople on the journey to Treaty in Victoria, and will hold its general elections from May 13 to June 3thisyear.

Assembly co-chair and proud Nira illim bulluk manofthe Taungurung Nation,Marcus Stewart, said the foundations and process for Treaty-making was now in place, and the next assembly would be tasked with negotiating the actual state-wide Treaty.“This electionisself-determination in action.Ifyou’re aTraditional Owner, please, consider putting your hand up to stand as acandidate to help make sure Treaty delivers tangible improvements for the lives of our people," he said.

"Treatywon’t negotiateitself, we need people to stand up and represent our mob on this incredible journey."

As wellasnegotiatinga state-wide Treaty, in its next term, the assembly will help empower the diverse Traditional Owner groups in Victoria to negotiate Treaties in their areas that reflect specific aspirations and priorities.

Assembly co-chairand Bangerang and Wiradjuri

Solutions

Target Time No.0152 able, abuse, abseil, alible, aisle, apse, bale, base, beau, bell, bile, blase, blue, bullae, espial, ilea, ileus, isle, label, labile, lapel, lapse, lase, leal, leap, liable, libel, lieu, lipase, lisle, lube, pale, pause, peal, pile, pilea, pileus, PLAUSIBLE, plea, pliable, pule, pulse, sable, sale, seal, sell, sepal, sepia, slue, spell, spiel, spile, suable, usable. Target: Average-32, Good -38, Excellent -46+

Elder, Aunty Geraldine Atkinson, said the upcoming assembly elections are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderpeople’sopportunity to choose who they want negotiating Treaty in Victoria.

“This is it! We’ve been fighting for this for generations," she said.

"All our work has led to this moment where Treaty is finally within our reach. Now we need all mob to get behind the assembly elections. Enrol with us, nominate if you’re keen, and most importantly, vote.

"Every vote counts, and everyone is invited to be part of this shared journey.

Thenomination period for candidates is open untilApril 24 2023.

Votingwill take place from May 13 to June 3 2023, with mob able to cast votesinperson,online or in the post.

“Those who stand as candidates and are elected to the next term of the assembly will negotiate a state-wideTreaty with the stategovernment that improves the lives of our kids through truth-telling, bettereducation, more jobs, affordable housing, betterhealth, and justice for our people,” said Aunty Geraldine.

Learn more about the assembly elections at www. TreatyElections.org.

Honour: Newlyinducted Higher Education Academy FellowsDrJulie Willemsand AssociateProfessor MargaretSimmons of Monash RuralHealth, Churchill.

Photograph Supplied

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Time to applyfor 2024 school places

THE state government is making it easier, clearer and fairer for young families enrolling kidsinto Prep, with anew process providing standardised dates and forms for all government schools.

Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins said the new approach to enrolling children into Prep will streamline the process for families, with applications now accepted from the start of Term 2until July 28

Parents and carers willreceive offer letters back by August 11, while applications received after July 28 will be considered by schools as they are received.

“Starting school is an exciting and important milestonefor any family, that’s why we’re making the process simpler, easier and fairer with standardised datesand forms for enrolmentinall government primary schools,” she said.

“We’re well on target to open 100 new government schools by 2026,with this year’s update to Find My School showcasing more local school options and providing all the information parents and carers need at their fingertips.”

As in previous years, families with children in Year 6willreceivea Placement Information Pack at the start of Term 2, which includes an application for Year 7Placement Form. These will need to be submitted by May 12, with students across Victoria receiving offer letters on July 19.

St. Michael’sexcursion

FOUNDATION students fromSt. Michael’s Primary School Traralgon,travelled by bus to The Museum of Play and Art (MoPA) in Sandringham, on Friday, March 31.

One activitywas to build using big blue blocks, and the students were encouraged to work as ateam.

Familiesapplyingfor placesatlocal government schools from the start of Term 2can now also access the freshly updated Find My School website, which gives parents and carers the latest information on school zones.

First launched four years ago, the website allows families to find their designated neighbourhood government school and other nearby government schools, giving them clarity on what their government school options are for their children.

It nowincludes14new schools and campuses set to open in 2024, along with small changes to existing school zones to reflect changes in school provision and adjustments to improve accessibility for all students.

Schools can be found by typing in aresidential address or searching by schoolname or categories such as primary, secondary, or specialist school.

Every child has the right to enrol at their designated neighbourhood government school or, if thereare sufficient places, at another government school of their choice.

Families can searchtheir schoolzonebyvisiting findmyschool.vic.gov.au, andmoreinformationon the enrolment process is available at vic.gov.au/ starting-school.

Stockdale Road leaders unveiled

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

CONGRATULATIONS are in order for the new school leaders at Stockdale Road Primary School, Traralgon.

Stockdale Road Primary School held an assembly to present each of the newly elected leadership teams for 2023.

Local Member Martin Cameron was the master of ceremonies at the assembly, presenting

the school captains, junior school council, sports house captains, transition leaders, enviro leaders and the library leaders with their student leadership badges and acertificate.

The student leaders have been working hard during Term 1toplan and develop many school programs and events for the remainder of the year.

MoPA is an interactive play-based centre for young children, and the students werevery excited to be going on their first excursionin

Term 1.

Formanyofthe studentsitwas the first time they had travelledonabus, and it seemed to take avery long time.

Upontheir arrival, studentswere split into groups and moved around to different activities.

Another activity was an area with tracks for cars and the studentsproblem-solved how to make their car go faster or slower.

The day finished off with adance party which was alot of fun.

Staff and students had afantastic day, and are looking forward to using some of the activities back at school in their developmental play program.

Interaction: Claireatthe car tracks Photographs supplied

Intriguing: Students making the most of the wind room

Wayofthe future: Stockdale Road PrimarySchool junior schoolcouncil MissGodenzi, Charlotte,Eliza, Evie,Flynn (front) Indie,Elly, Harlow, Jade and Mason.

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The Range offers elegant new and refurbished two and three-bedroom independent living villas, set in attractive and well-manicured surrounds. Each villa features an open-plan living area,wellappointed kitchen, private courtyardgarden and single or double garage.

Plan your social life with your new community.

Youwill have the flexibility and freedom to embrace life with asocialcalendar that includes, billiards, indoor bowls, craft, movie nights, trivia, bingo,cards and many moresocial activities and make use of our community bus to getaroundour local area

Now is your time to down size and embrace life at The Range

School captains: Will, Dakota,Lacey,Marleywith Member forMorwell Martin Cameron.

Transition leaders: Lily, Charli,Meila, Vien, Tora and Samuel Photographs supplied

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne Madeline Moore

April 10 -April 16,2023

Aries Prepare for one of the luckiest weeks of the year! The Sun and Jupiter link up in Aries, so confidence and self-belief will take you far You’re also keen to make connections with other people, as Venus and Pluto highlight your communication and networking zones It’s a terrific time to initiate ideas and make waves within your circle of influence

Powerful and positive collaborations are the keys to future success, so roll up your sleeves and get cracking, Rams

Taurus You’re in tip-top form this week

Taurus, as Mercury, Venus and Uranus all transit through your sign With Venus and Pluto activating your career zone, creativity and confidence will take you far at work

The Sun and Jupiter also highlight your contemplation zone so meditation reading and relaxing are also favoured Your motto is from actress and activist Emma Watson (who turns 33 on Saturday): “My greatest relaxation is to sit with a book ”

Gemini The Sun and Jupiter join f Gorces, so open and honest communication is required but make sure you don’t become the neighborhood nosey parker Passing on unverified hearsay could lead to unexpected consequences, so think long and hard, Gemini, before you spread secrets and garrulous gossip What’s needed are kind words, helpful actions and noble deeds Those around you can expect some amusing antics and manic moments from you and your peer group pals

Cancer On Tuesday or Wednesday a lucky opportunity could come your way, as the Sun and Jupiter join forces in your career zone

With Mars moving through your sign and Venus shifting into your spirituality zone, this week is all about listening to your inner voice and following your intuition So your motto for the moment is from actress and feminist Emma Watson (who turns 33 on Saturday):

“All I can do is follow my instincts, because I’ll never please everyone ”

Leo Calling all restless, curious Cats! It’s one of your luckiest weeks of the year as the golden Sun (your ruler) links up with Jupiter, planet of prosperity and positivity

So fun times and fortunate opportunities are likely – especially involving education, aspirations, adventure, travel and/or tourism

However, when it comes to close friends and complicated finances, try to keep the two well-separated At the moment, money and mates are a messy combination

Virgo Venus transits into your career zone, so cog nfidence and chutzpah will take you far at work

If you stop criticising others – and turn on the charm instead – then you’ll zoom ahead in leaps and bounds

You’ll also gain valuable insights into the hidden motivations of a loved one, but make sure you use such information discreetly And don’t forget to laugh! Your mantra is from fellow-Virgo, Roald Dahl: A little nonsense now and then, is cherished by the wisest men ”

Libra With the Sun and Jupiter joining up in your relationship zone, the buzz words are communication, consultation and cooperation Your natural Libran talent for negotiation will get you through! Heed the wise words of actress, activist, and birthday great Emma Thompson: “Any problem big or small always seems to start with bad communication ” It’s also a good week to catch up with family and friends from faraway places either in person or online

Calltohonourexceptional womeninthe state of Vic

VICTORIANS are encouraged to nominate women in their communities who have made significant and lasting contributions to society.

The 2023 Victorian Honour Roll of Women is now open.

Minister for Women, Natalie Hutchins recently opened nominations for the honour roll, inviting the community to put forward women nominees while paying tributetothe hundredsofwomen honoured in the past.

“Women from diverse backgrounds and from all walks of life have made lasting contributions to ourstate, and we want to shine alight on their achievements for the next generation of women and girls," she said.

Women fromall walks of life, age groups and across industries -from health,scienceand technology, arts and educationtopolitics and community activism- have beenrecognised as trailblazers, local champions and change agents. In recent years,nominationcategorieshave expanded to include emerging leaders aged between 16 and 30 who are redefining leadership in their field of expertise, interest or endeavour.

Celebrating women’s contributions is an important step towards normalisingwomen’s leadership, and helps to address agender imbalance in wider honours,all with the goal of building asociety where everyone is valued equally,regardless of their gender.

Stubborn Scorpios can too easily get stucp k in a stultifying daily regime This week it s time to ricochet out of your usual routine and do something completely different Variety is the spice of life as you experiment with exciting new activities and enjoy some spontaneous adventures But the more you try to control others, the more they are likely to resist So, if you want to avoid problems and power struggles then learn to graciously let go and move on

Scorpio

“Some of our previousinductees forged new paths for women todaybychallengingoutdated ideas of what awoman can do, while others are young women redefining what leadership is for the future.

“It is important to support and honour our female leaders, because there is no gender equality withoutwomen’s leadership. By recognisingthese women publicly,weare showingyounggirlswhat they can be.”

More than 700 women, whose achievements have helped shape Victoria, the nation and the globe, have been inducted into the honour roll since it began in 2001.

Celebrating the achievements of diverse women from all walks of life helps open the door for the next generation of outstanding women, and shatters entrenched beliefs that only men can be leaders.

The honour roll is proudtocelebrate the contributions of women of all faiths, cultures, ages, sexual identities and abilities.

Nominations for the 2023 VictorianHonour Roll of Women are open until Monday, May 29.

To nominate and seedetails of past inductees visit vic.gov.au/victorian-honour-roll-women-program

Sagittarius

It’s a wonderful week to le gt the good times roll, as the Sun and Jupiter join forces to put a sunny smile on your Sagittarian dial The stars highlight entertaining, eating out, movies, concerts, parties, personal pampering, fashion, fun and more You’re keen to indulge in pleasure and leisure in equal measure! But be careful what you say to a stressed family member Deft diplomacy is paramount If in doubt, just zip your lips and say absolutely nothing

Capricorn This week your ruler Saturn squar p es Venus, which could crank up your controlling side and encourage ego battles with others So try to balance steely determination with a deft diplomatic touch The Sun/Jupiter conjunction brings a welcome reprieve as you charm family members and close friends plus influence important people with your can-do Capricorn attitude If there s a challenging job to tackle or a tall mountain to climb – you ’ re the one to do it!

TACassistance is helping those who sustain injuries

PROGRAMS that boost the independence of people living with an acquired brain injury willbenefit from grants from the state government and TAC.

Minister for WorkSafeand TAC Danny Pearson said grants of up to $50,000 supported community-led projects that improve the lives and independenceofpeople with ABIs,spinal cord injuries or life-altering injuries like amputations.

Not-for-profit Heads Together for ABI,has receivedagrant for its new Cook.Chat.Eat cooking classes, teaching young adults with an ABI. “It’sabout learning skills in asafeand supported environment and providing confidence to take on new challenges,” Mr Pearson said.

Heads Together for ABI is one of five communitybased groups to receive agrant.

New initiative calls for more funding and recognition of community health

Sociable Jupiter links up with the Sun, so you ’ re keen to create, activate and communicate (especially within your local community) Some caution is required, though, otherwise you could be drawn into a power struggle with a child, teenager, business colleague or close friend As actress, writer and birthday great Emma Thompson reminds us: “Children don’t need much advice, but they really do need to be listened to, and not just with half an ear ”

Aquarius

Pisces On Friday Saturn (in your sign) squares Venus (in your domestic zone) so there could be a tricky problem with a frustrated family member or a stressed housemate Patience and plenty of diplomacy will get you through The Sun and Jupiter also link up in your money zone which is good news for a possible pay rise bonus, gift, major windfall or minor discount deal Whatever happens this week – big or small

enjoy your wins wherever you find them!

CopyrightJoanne Madeline Moore 2023

Thisadvertisingspace couldbe s

This week my stars are telling me that I’m going to purchase a fantastic bargain YOUBEAUTY!

To advertise your bargains, products or services in this column or forinformation, simply phoneLesleyHogan on 5135 4414 today.

LATROBE Community Health Service has joined all 24 registered independent community health services in Victoria to call for greater recognition and funding.

Together,the services have launched Community HealthFirst,tohighlight to state and federaldecision makers the critical role community health services play.

“Latrobe Community Health Servicejoined CommunityHealth First because we know the key to solving our current healthcare crisissits within our services,” Latrobe Community Health Service chief executive Ben Leigh said.

“No other part of our healthcare system has the same level of community connection and ability to rapidly enact scalable responses to emerging public health issues.

"We ensure world-class healthcare is accessible to all, especiallythe most vulnerable and hard-toreachpeople in our communities.

“Time and againLatrobe CommunityHealth Service partners withstate and federal government to support Gippsland communities in times of

crisis -whether that be the pandemic, bushfires or floods.

“We are the experts when it comes to ensuring Victorians get the care they need,when andwhere they need it. We want to work alongside government -through adequatefunding and tangible partnerships -asa critical solution to helping alleviate the pressure on our health system.”

Community Health First has four key asks of government:

-Increase core fundingtoregistered independent community health servicesbyatleast 20 per cent;

-Cement registered independent community health services as the 'partner of choice' for primary care and community-based health initiatives;

-Immediatelyprioritise fair and sustainable investment in community health infrastructure and workforce development, and;

-Recognise registered community health services in the NationalHealth Agreement, so state government funding for community health is matchedby federal investment (as it is for hospital funding).

Landcare and junior grants now open

Apply: Anumberofgrantsare nowavailable to help volunteer groups File photograph

THE state government is providing a$4.4million funding boost to volunteers and young people across the state, to help them protect and restore the natural environment in our area.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing, is encouragingvolunteer groups acrossGippsland to apply for the 2023 Victorian Landcare Grants and the 2023 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants, which are now open to help volunteers and kids carefor the state’s precious environment and biodiversity.

Through the Victorian LandcareGrants, environmental volunteer groups can apply for up to $20,000for on-ground works and community education projectsthat protect or improve the natural environment across Gippsland.

Support grantsofupto$500are also available to help with groupadministrationand running costs. “These grants will help volunteers of all ages across Gippsland to continue the crucial work to restore and improve habitats for our native plants and animals,” Ms Shing said.

“We know Victorians love being out in natureand we are investing to ensure our precious and unique environment can be enjoyed by future generations.

“This funding will assist our hard-working

volunteers, community groups and young people to continue caring for our beautiful, diverse, and vitally important natural environments.”

The Victorian Landcaregrantsare open to environmental volunteering groups, including Landcare groups and networks, friendsgroups, conservationmanagement networks, committees of management, Coastcare groups and Aboriginal groups to support the important work they do in protecting and restoringthe land and environment.

More than 200 projects were funded through last year’s grants, including revegetationprojects at Burnet Park Camp, planting afirewise demonstrationgarden in Nungurner, and theplanting of thousands of Indigenous plants in gardens across East Gippsland.

Grantsofupto$5000 will be available for projects that providechildcare centres, kindergartens, primary and secondary schools,Scouts, Girl Guides and youth groups in Latrobe with an opportunity to participate in hands-on projects planting Indigenous gardens, building habitat to attract native insects and birds, collecting data about nature and excursions to wildlife sanctuaries.

For more information about how to apply, visit environment.vic.gov.au/grants

Sustainable flower farmer takes home tophonour

GLENMOREentrepreneur, Nikki Davey, has been awarded the 2023VIC AgriFutures Rural Women’s Awardfor her trail-blazing approach to sustainable farming practices in the flower industry.

The prestigious award waspresented at aceremony in Melbourne recently by Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and Regional Development Michaela Settle.

The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, supported by long-termplatinumsponsor Westpac, is Australia's leading award in empowering and celebrating the inclusive and courageous leadership of women involved in Australia’s rural and emerging industries, businesses, and communities, now and into the future.

It is an opportunity to celebrate the forward thinking, courageous leaders who come from industries that represent some of the regionaland remote areas of Victoria.

Ms Davey, co-founder of Grown Not Flown, was selected for her work in creating adigitalplatform thatsupports the slow flower movement by connecting flower consumers with local and sustainable producers.

The slow flower movement aims to encourage sustainable farming practices by reducing flower miles, and encourage consumers to buy from the many local small-scale producerswho make up the Victorian flower industry.

As part of the AgriFutures RuralWomen’s Award, Ms Davey received a$15,000 grantfrom Westpac to furthersupporther project,aswell as the opportunity to undertakea professional development course of her choosing.

Ms Davey will go on to represent Victoria at the

THE state government is giving Victorians seeking treatment for mentalhealth concernsand substance addiction better access to support, with anew state-wide specialist service.

Minister for Mental Health, Gabrielle Williams, lastweek opened the Hamilton Centre, a$13.3 million state-wide specialist servicedelivering more accessible care for Victorians with co-occurring mental health and substance addiction issues.

“I’m delighted to announce the openingofthe Hamilton Centre, which is providingmuch needed integratedand wrap-around care for Victorians managingmentalhealth andaddiction issues,” she said.

“The Royal Commission told us that people

AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Gala Dinner and NationalAnnouncementinCanberralater in the year, where the nationalwinner will be awarded an additional$20,000 Westpac grant and the national runner-up, an additional $15,000.

“I feel so incredibly grateful for this opportunity to be able to share our Grown Not Flown story and platform with everyone, and to help promote and raiseawareness around flower miles, slow flowers and supporting local,” Ms Davey said.

“As aself-funded start-up, often progress can be very slow and so this Westpac grant will be an absolute game changer for us and what we can achieve in the next 12 months.

“I’m so excited and proudtobejoininganalumni community of supportive and strong women who are real change makers within their rural communities.”

Ms Settle commended Ms Davey and fellow finalistsGrace Larson, Neha Samar, Michelle Dagaand Sarah Duncanson for their brilliant work and ongoing contribution to rural and regional communities in Victoria.

“Victoria is proud to congratulate the 2023 Victorian finalists, all of them showcase the powerful impact women have across our regional communities," Ms Settle said.

All five women willnow joina300-strong alumni which provides anetwork to support their future endeavours.

AgriFutures managing director John Harvey hopes Ms Davey’s achievements willinspire other determined and forward thinking female leaders working in rural, regionaland remote communities across Victoria for years to come.

Kudos: Victorian RuralWomen’s Awardwinner,NikkiDavey (centre), flankedbyParliamentary Secretaryfor Agricultureand Regional Development, Michaela Settle (left), and regionalgeneral manager,Central VIC/Gippsland, Regional &Agribusiness,Mandy Hehir, (Westpac).

“The AgriFuturesRural Women's Award provides these women aplatform to build on their leadershipskillstodrivechange in rural and regional Australia.”, Mr Harvey explained.

“It’s exciting to see Nikki already making such a positive influence in her industry and community."

Supporting these sentiments, senior relationship manager for Westpac Gayle Isles said the awards reflect the heart of rural industries in Victoria and across the nation.

New specialist mental health service

struggling withco-occurring mental health and addiction issues need integrated and responsive support -the Hamilton Centre is an important part of an integrated system which will give people the best treatment and recovery.”

Turning Point, Australia’s leading addiction treatment and research centre led the design and delivery of the Hamilton Centre, and will lead a clinical network that will support the Hamilton Centre’s functions across the state.

New addictionspecialist hubs will form akey

part of this service -withthe stategovernment investing $21.5milliontoopen these services across St Vincent’s HospitalMelbourne, Eastern Health, Western Health, Austin Health and Goulburn ValleyHealth, makingsure peopleacross the state have access to the support they need.

Named afterProf Margaret Hamilton AO, one of Australia’s most influentialfigures acrossthe alcohol and other drugs (AOD) and mental health sectors, the Hamilton Centrewill deliver both clinical services and specialist integrated treatment.

Photograph supplied

“Creating and advancing opportunities for rural Australia and our local communities is at the core of what makes our regions the backbone of our economy and our rural industries asuccess," she said.

"On behalf of Westpac Agribusiness, Icommend all the inspiring women who took the initiative to apply for the Rural Women’s Award, and congratulate Nikki for beingawarded the Victorian State Winner."

The Hamilton Centrewill alsobeanation-leading base for research and education for mental health and alcohol and other drug services, as well as providing workforce training and development.

The establishment of the centre is an important step towards achieving the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System’s vision -ofa future in which Victorians have access to integrated treatment, care and support in avariety of settings, consistent with their needs and preferences.

The VictorianBudget 2022/23invested more than$42 million over four yearstoboost integrated services for Victorians living with co-occurring mental health and addiction or substance use issues.

TheGuide

PICK OF THE WEEK

BONDI RESCUE

10, Friday, 7.30pm

There’spossibly nothing moreAussie than Santa on the beach. After ahiatus during the height of the pandemic,this much-loveddoco seriescelebrating Bondi’slifeguards and the Aussie beach lifestyle returns tonight with its 17th season –and lifeguard Harries (pictured) cruising the sun-soaked beach on motorbikewearing aSanta suit Theseason premiereopensonajoyful note, as the throngsdescend on the beach on Christmas Day. Later,Harries faces one of the toughest moments of hislong lifeguardingcareer when he’s faced with ababywho has stoppedbreathing.Amicrocosm of life’shighs and lows, BondiRescuepulls at theheartstrings.

Wednesday, April 12

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) Presented by MarcFennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

CSI:VEGAS

10, Saturday, 9.30pm

Ahotbedofmoney,lust, partying and ambition, Sin City is the ideal stomping ground forthisprovocative reboot following agroup of criminal investigators.The fifth instalment in the long-runningfranchise CSI: Vegasis unashamedly formulaic and nostalgic,with crime lab scenes reigning supreme. To fans’delight, CSIstalwart Marg Helgenberger (pictured) bolstered the ranks by joining the cast,which also stars Mandeep Dhillon (AfterLife)and MattLauria (FridayNightLights), for its second season. Of course, there’s predictably some oddly compelling scenariosthrown into the mix. Tonight,in“ThirdTime’s theCharm”, the curious case involves the death of competitive-eating contestant

GRAND DESIGNS

ABC TV,Sunday, 7.30pm

This iconic series returns with its 20th season, celebrating two decadesof optimistic homeowners (wrongly) declaring: “We’ll be in by Christmas!”. Over the years, asmorgasbord of inspiring,different and usually very expensivebuilds havebeen documented. Sardonic hostKevin McCloud (pictured) stilladmirably sports an eagle-eyedenthusiasm and entertaining candour,and this newbatch of builds and ownersis intriguing as ever.Tonight,McCloud meets Colin andAdele,following the couple’s stunningly designed yet fraught dream-build journey,which wouldreduce most to abrokenmess Of course, theydoggedly declarethat the emotional and financial turmoil wasworth it

MY NAME IS REEVA: IWAS MURDERED BY OSCARPISTORIUS

SBS, Monday, 8.35pm

This three-part documentaryisa devastating rumination on grief, justice and thenatureoftruth. Morethan 10 years after Oscar Pistorius shotand killedhis girlfriend ReevaSteenkamp (pictured)on Valentine’s Day, theParalympian is due forparole. FilmmakerWarren Batchelor presents an intimate portrait of Steenkamp,endorsed by her parents Barry and June, who sharetheir innermostthoughts and feelings,aswell as access to personal home footage. It also follows the confronting victim-offender dialogue process, which sees Barrytakethe difficultstepofmeetingwith his daughter’s killer

8.35 TheWeeklyWithCharlie Pickering. (PG) Asatirical newsprogram.

9.05 AuntyDonna’s CoffeeCafe. (Premiere, Mls) The misadventures of three best mates

9.35 QI. (Ms) Hosted by SandiToksvig.

10.05 Staged. (Ml, R)

10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R) 11.00 Frayed. (Malsv, R) 11.50 Finding Alice. (Final, Mls,R) 12.35 Science Of Drugs

With Richard Roxburgh. (Mad, R) 1.35 Rage

(MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 AntiquesRoadshow.(R)

4.25 The Drum.(R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

7.30 Alone Australia. (Ml) The participantsbattlehunger.

8.35 Michael Palin:Into Iraq. (M) Part 2 of 3. Michael Palincontinueshis journey into the heartofIraq, arriving in Kirkuk.

9.30 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+) David Stirling ruminatesonJockLewes’ idea of parachuting units of men into the desert.

10.35 SBS WorldNews Late.

11.05 Furia (Malv)

12.00 Miniseries: TheSister (Mal, R)

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 HomeAnd Away (PG) Bree cannot handle the heat with Remi.

7.30 Farmer Wants AWife. (PGl) The farmstays are underway

9.05 TheFront Bar (M) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang andAndy Maher takealighter look at all things AFL

10.05 We InterruptThisBroadcast. (PGalv,R)Sketch comedy series.

11.05 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.35 Crime InvestigationAustralia: Most Infamous (MA15+v,R)

12.45 Filthy Rich. (Mav, R)

6.00 NineNews

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 LEGO Masters: GrandMasters. (PGl) Hosted by HamishBlake.

8.50 Travel Guides. (PGls, R) Australians become travel critics, taking off on aGreek Island-hoppingholiday, starting in Athens.

9.50 Footy Classified. (M) Footy expertstackle the AFL’s big issues.

10.50 Nine News Late.

11.20 See No Evil. (Ma)

12.10 Ordinary Joe.(Ma) 1.00 TheGarden Gurus. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping.

6.30 TheProject. Alook at the day’snews and events.

7.30 I’mACelebrity… Get Me OutOfHere! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Dr Chris Brown

9.00 Law&Order:SVU (MA15+a) Arecently releasedconvict goes looking forhis arresting officer,Fin Tutuola.

10.00 Fire Country. (Mv) Sharon receives life-changing news.

11.00 Bull (Ma, R) Bull’ssurgeon is sued for malpractice.

12.00 TheProject (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.45 Bamay (R)

5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight

1.00[VIC]HomeShopping

4.00 NBCToday 5.00 SevenEarly News.

5.30 Sunrise.

1.00 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

Aust Story (R) 10.30 That Pacific Sports Show.(R) 11.00

Enslaved. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Hard

Quiz.(PG,R) 1.30 The Weekly.(PG,R) 2.00

Shaun Micallef’s MAD AS HELL.(Mls, R) 2.30

Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.00 Escape From The City. (R) 4.00 AntiquesRoadshow.(R) 5.00

Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 5.30 Hard

6.00 TheDrum.

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 Foreign Correspondent. International affairs program.

8.30 Grand Designs New Zealand TomWebster meetscafe owners who are building the biggest house theycan on theirbudget.

9.20 Griff’s Canadian Adventure: Happiness. (Final, PGd, R) Presented by Griff RhysJones.

10.05 ArtWorks. (R) Hosted by Namila Benson.

10.35 ABC LateNews.

10.50 TheBusiness (R)

11.10 GreatAustralian Stuff (PG, R)

12.10 Q+A. (R)

1.10 Rage.(MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 4.30 The Drum. (R) 5.30

7.30.(R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 TheMurdochs: EmpireOf Influence. (Premiere,M)The story of theMurdochs,the world’s most powerful media family

8.30 TheElon Musk Show. (M) Part 3of3.AsElon Musk’sbusinesses reach unprecedented levels of success, his public profile grows.

9.35 Vigil. (MA15+av) When the traitor onVigilputs their plans into action, the crew is forced to fight for their lives.

10.35 SBSWorld News Late.

11.05 Exit (Mals) Henrik takes pityonMagdalena.

12.05 Paris Police 1900. (MA15+asv, R)

4.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)

5.00 NHK World EnglishNews Morning. 5.30

ANCPhilippinesThe World Tonight

ABC COMEDY (22) 6am The Way. Continued. (2010,PG) 8.15 Viceroy’sHouse. (2017,PG) 10.15 The ProfessorAnd The Madman. (2019,M) 12.35pm Zama. (2017,M,Spanish) 2.45 Footy Legends. (2006,PG) 4.25 Howard Lovecraft. (2016,PG) 6.00 Whisky Galore. (2016,PG) 7.50 Iron Sky.(2012,M) 9.30 Clandestine Childhood. (2011, M, Spanish) 11.35

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage of the upcoming match, featuring hot topicsand the latestAFL news.

7.30 Football. AFL.Round 5. Adelaide vCarlton.FromAdelaide Oval.

10.30 AFLPost-Game Show. Awrap-up of thegame,including panel discussion and interviews, with accesstoplayers, coaches and staff

11.00 TheLatest: SevenNews. (R)

11.30 To Be Advised

1.00[VIC]HomeShopping.

1.05 Black-ish. (PGa,R)Dre overreacts to Devante leavingthe houseashy and Bow intervenes, making the situation worse.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBCToday News and current affairs.

5.00 SevenEarly News.

5.30 Sunrise. News, sportand weather.

7.00

7.30 RBT. (Mdl, R) Follows the activities of police units.

8.30 Paramedics (Mm, R) Ateam member races to remote bushland where ahuge tree has fallen and crushed aman’s leg. 9.30 EmbarrassingBodies.

7.30 I’mA Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebritiesshare the personal stories that connect them to the charitiesthey are playing for

9.00 GoggleboxAustralia. TV fanatics open up theirliving rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

10.00 Luke Heggie: IAlready Told You. (MA15+l) Aperformance from Luke Heggie.

Would ILie To You? Australia. (Mls, R) Hosted by Chrissie Swan.

TheProject. (R)

TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 TheDrum Analysis of theday’snews.

7.00 ABC News. Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 Gardening Australia.

Advice forthe home gardener

8.30 Traces. (Return, Mal) Lab assistant Emma is now training to be aforensic chemist, and on the cusp of seeing her mother’s murder case finally resolved.

9.15 To Be Advised.

10.05 Aunty Donna’s Coffee Cafe (Mls, R) Themisadventures of three best mates.

10.30 Jack Irish. (Final, Malv,R)

11.30 ABCLateNews.

11.45 Close To Me (Mals, R)

12.35 Traces. (Final, Malv,R)

1.20 Smother (Mal, R)

2.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS WorldNews

7.35 Wrecks That Changed The World: Collision Course. (PG) Takesa look at shipwrecks.

8.30 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways: Kent. (PGav, R) RobBellheads to Kent

9.25 Exploring Northern Ireland. (PGal, R) Part 1of4

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Premiere, MA15+av)

11.45 Cheyenne &Lola. (Malv,R) 1.45 Romulus. (Return, MA15+av) 3.35 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC

PhilippinesThe WorldTonight

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Better Homes AndGardens. Johanna Griggs and Pete Colquhoun tour Hutt House, an ultra-sustainablehome

7.30 AFL: Friday NightCountdown. Alead-up to the Fridaynight AFL match.

8.00 Football. AFL.Round 5. Richmond vSydney.From Adelaide Oval.

11.00 AFL Post-Game Show. Awrap-upofthe game, including panel discussion and interviews, with access to players, coaches and staff

11.30 ArmchairExperts (M) Apanel discussesall things AFL

12.30 To Be Advised. [VIC]HomeShopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute (R)Hosted by Grant Denyer

5.00 NBCToday.

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Escape To TheChateau. The Strawbridges tackle awalled garden.

8.30 MOVIE: Midway (2019,Mlw)Based on thereal-life Battle of Midway during WWII, aclash between theAmerican fleet and the Imperial Japanese Navy which marked apivotal turning point in thePacific PatrickWilson, WoodyHarrelson, Ed Skrein.

11.10 MOVIE: Secret In TheirEyes. (2015, Malv,R)Threeinvestigators reunite to solve acase. Julia Roberts.

1.10 DriveTV. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG,R)

4.30 Global Shop (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30

SkippyThe Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.30 TheProject Alook at the day’snews andevents.

7.30 Bondi Rescue. (Return, PGaln) Followsthe work of elitelifeguards

8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Madl, R) Follows NSW Ambulance’s Sydney operations as they dealwith cases involving apregnant woman who goes into labour at home, acar accident,aworksite explosion, and aterminally ill patient.

9.30 TerritoryCops. (Mdv,R)Takes abehind-the-sceneslookatpolice work in the Northern Territory

10.30 Would ILie To You? Australia. (Mls, R) Hosted by Chrissie Swan

11.30 TheProject. (R)

12.30 TheLateShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

Good Friday netball provides fireworks

NETBALL NORTH GIPPSLAND

BY ZOE ASKEW

WHILE many towns in the Gippsland region were deserted last Friday, with nearly all shops locked up and only ahandful of cars on the roads, most of which were drivingthrough on their wayto their weekend destination, Yarram was bustling with life as players and onlookers gathered for the North Gippsland Football-Netball League Good Friday playoffs.

Yarram took the court, meeting Yallourn Yallourn North, in what was expected be ahotly contested game between the two sides.

Whatmight nothave been expectedwas the number of ‘more thanhandy’inclusions forthe visiting team.

Using theirnetworks and the local sporting schedule to fulladvantage,the Jets were able to draft gun Morwell defender Tanya Budge (whose husband plays football for YYN),fellow dual Morwell AGrade premiership player Lexie Bowe, and Trafalgar AGrade premiership player Ella McDonald into the side.

The Jets endeduptearing away in the final quarter, taking home the win by four goals, 38 to 34.

YYN came out strong, snagging afew earlygoals to put them in the lead, but afiery Yarram turned up the heat, netting consecutive goals to even the score 10 minutes into the first quarter. With the Jets struggling to find theirplayers, the Demonstook advantage, intercepting and turning over balls in mid-court before finding accurate shooter Bella Bettridge in the ring to put Yarram ahead 13-10 by the end of the first quarter.

YYN returned to the court like abull out of the gate, shooting the first few goals in ahot start to the second quarter.

The Jets pressedhard,searching for athird consecutive goal to equalise the score.

WhileYYN was presented with several opportunities to even the score, Yarram would not make it easy for YYN, with fantastic defensive play from goalkeeper Madison Roberts, supported well by goal defender Hazel Kerrison-Male.

Following anail-biting back-and-forth and a scoreless three minutes, Yarram added agoal to to lead the Jets by two, 14-12.

YYN wing defence Samira Heffermandisplayed relentlesstenacityreturningtothe court in the second quarter, her athleticism and workhorse mentality rewarding the Jets with numerous turnovers throughout the match.

In the centre, YYN drew strengthfrom Annalise Gafa; her high work rate, fast pace and impressive agility wreaked havoc for the Demons.

Budge slid into YYN’sdefensive line-up and was unsurprisingly one of the best on court.

Yarram wing attack Lily Kerrison-Male was a strong player for the home side, alongside Bettridge and Roberts.

Scores remained relatively even in the second. Bettridge shot five goals and Yarram goal attack Ella Rendell scored two in the second quarter, while YYN goal shooter ShelbyCarr netted six and Bowe scored two.

Yarram led YYN 20-18 at the halftime break. The Jets evened the score early in the third quarter with two consecutivegoals before going ahead for the first time since the game’s opening minutes, and extended their lead 24-22.

Yarram was quick to even the score but not for long, withYYN scraping backaone-point lead before breaking away to lead31-28atthe final break.

YYN continued to pull away early in the final quarter with great play from wing attack McDonald and Carr in goal attack.

Yarram wasn’t about to giveup. TheDemons

Handyinclusion: Yarram goal shooterBella Bettridgeand YallournYallournNorth fill-ingoal defence TanyaBudge contest the ball.Morwell AGraderBudge wasavailable to play duetoa break in the Gippsland League schedule

worked hard until the very last second, equalising the score in the final five minutes.

Kerrison-Male wasimpressivefor Yarram at centre in the fourth quarter, runningthe midcourt with physicality, speed, agility and ahighwork rate.

YYNpulledone point ahead of Yarram 35 to 34.

Budge read the Demons’play in the shooting ring likea book,intercepting and turning overthe ball, quickly starting YYN’s counterattack. Afluid,fast-pacedplay up the court to Bowe and

Eyeonthe ball: YallournYallournNorth wing attack Meg Findlayinactionduring theJets’win over Yarram on Good Friday.

Photographs Zoe Askew

Carr in the shooting ring saw YYN draw away in the game’s closing minutes. The Jets found Bowe and Carr twice more before the finalwhistle,the home team leaving the court gassed and disappointed as YYN claimed the win Shellby Carr was best on court for YYN, with Emily Sherry aclose second. In other games,the Jets defeatedthe Demons 51-23 in BGrade,32-8inCGrade and23-17 in DGrade. Demons defeat Jets in entertaining game of senior football -page 22.

Centrepass: Annalise Gafasends theball forwardfor YallournYallourn North.

Back in action on the courts this weekend

NETBALL

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

AFTER anice long weekend and the week off netball, teams across Gippsland will be keen to get back into their 2023 campaigns. Round 2ofthe Gippsland League on Saturday will provide some great games for viewing. The game of the round will be when Drouin faces off against amightyMorwell side on the Tigers’ home deck.

The Hawks will want to be the ones to end the undefeated run of the Tiger train, stretching back to 2021.

Moe,comingoff asolid performance in atight loss to Morwell, will want to prove their worth and take home premiership points against Warragul over at Western Park.

Traralgon will travel to Maffra in what hopes to be an easy win, considering Maffra’s loss to Bairnsdale, who didn’t win agame last year.

In other games, having ahome-game advantage andastrong10-goal winover Traralgon in Round 1, Leongatha should get the job done quite comfortably against anew Wonthaggi side, while Sale and Bairnsdale looks to be an even-money match.

NORTH GippslandFootball-Netball League will continue its Round 2matches following the Good Friday spectacle betweenYarram and YYN.

Hot Pies: Glengarrywilllook to continue their dominant season openingperformance when they take on Heyfield. The Magpies outclassed traditional powerhouse Rosedale by 23 goals in Round 1, who have another tough assignment this Saturday, travelling to Gaskin Park to take on Churchill.

Sale City travels to Gormandale in what should be astandard win for the Bulldogs. Reigningpremier Woodside should have no trouble getting the job done against TTU, while Cowwarr has another week break due to the bye.

FINALLY, spectators will get to see some Mid Gippsland actionasthe Round 8match between MorwellEastand Foster has been moved to this Saturday.

Despite Round 1not starting until April 22, Morwell East will aim to set themselves up as serious premiershipcandidates, so expect them to come out firing.

FOOTBALL PREVIEWS ON PAGE 21

North Gippsland Football &Netball League NorthGippsland

Yarramhhas agood d Friday

FOOTBALL NORTH GIPPSLAND

BY LIAM DURKIN

YARRAM doesn’t lose milestone games.

NORTH GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

ROUND 2(EASTER SPLITROUND)

HARRIET SHING MP

WORKING HARD FOR YOUR COMMUNITY

That was what Demons playing-coach Griffin Underwoodsaidatleast after his side defeated Yallourn Yallourn North 13.10 (88) to 9.12 (66) on Good Friday.

Underwood celebratedhis 250thsenior match in the red and white, alongside Josh Swift playing his 200th.

The former was busy across half-back, while the script couldn’t have been written any better for the latter, as he kicked six goals including the sealer.

The Good Friday fixture has become astaple event on the North Gippsland Football-Netball League calendar since the Jets came into the league.

UntillastFriday, the Jets had won both encounters since 2021.

Yarram now has awin for the Good Friday tally,and if theway they played in their most recent encounter is any indication, the Demon faithful have reason to be optimistic in season 2023.

The home side led at every change against the reigning premier, in what was an entertaining standalone Round 2match.

In simplistic terms, Yarram was good, but YYNrefusedtogoaway.

The Demons squanderedanumberof scoringopportunities in the first quarter, while conversely, the Jets made the most of theirs to go into the first break virtually on level pegging 3.3 (21) to 3.2 (20).

Abizarre occurrence in the opening term saw aYarram player affect aspoil,and mark the rebound some five metres away.

The things you see in country footy.

The Demons took control in the second quarter, adding 3.5 (23) to 1.1 (7).

Although they wereinaccurate, the weight of inside 50s was telling, and really, Yarram should have been at least afurthertwo goals in front by the main break.

As they say however, bad kicking is bad football, and the Demons had to be content with a17-point lead.

It seemed badkicking wasn’t just confined to the home side, as in the thirdterm, the Jets went 2.6(18)to2.2 (14).

The crowd on the hill underneath the bar was given ahalf-humorous moment when a borderline call on the boundary wasdeemed to be out on the full.

Having been the one who kicked the ball, Yarram defender Shem Rendell clearly felt he was hard doneby, laughing as he said “that wasn’t out on the full!”

Thecrowd was also given agood view of aset shot from YYN forward Josh Keyhoe.

After taking astrong overhead mark deep in the pocket, Keyhoe declined an option to square the ball to teammate Campbell MacInnes.

Although the resultant shot went wayward, one could see why he went for goal himself. Had he passed to the left-footed MacInnes, the shot may well have become more difficult as he was on the wrong side to allow for natural angle.

There is generally more to take into consideration surrounding momentsina game than the average supporter is aware of.

The third quarter was arelatively even affair, and come the final change, the Demons held ahandy 13-point lead.

Underwood was pleased with his charges, praising their cleanliness on ground ball during his address.

Of most pressing concern for Yarram though was the number of times Jets key forward DeanMacdonald was able to get easy marks goal side from balls getting slingshotted out the back.

In order to counteract this, the Demons, conceding they didn’t have the leg speed to go withYYN’s small forwards, were instructed to hold their shape behind the ball.

In the end, Yarram didn’t really have to worryabout what was happening in their defensive end -because they just kept kicking goals at the other.

Wherethey had been plagued by poor kicking in the first half, they couldn’t miss in the last quarter.

TheDemons added five straight goals to round out victory to the tune of 22 points.

Kelly Griffiths produced one for the highlight reel, fending off an opponent and snappingtruly to put the game beyond all reasonable doubt.

Griffiths was among the best players, along with milestone man Swift, Dylan Garnham, Levi Munns, Boadie Motton and Liam Bentley.

Best for YYN was Kyle Jennings, Keenan Hughes, Dylan Bentley,Macdonald (five goals), Elliott De Carli and Matt Twaddle.

The Jets wore aspecial heritage Yallourn guernsey, complete with collar for the occasioninwhatwas also youngster Rowan Duguid’s first senior game.

Underwood and Swift were chaired from the ground, taking in the applause of well-wishes.

The milestones underpinnedthe loyalty of Yarram players, atrademark that has become synonymous with the club.

Underwood has won astaggering 11 best andfairests for theDemons, so one can only imagine the offers he has been given to play elsewhere.

Thecoach was quick to praise his troops in thedebrief.

“It goes to show, we are in it if we want to be, we don’tneed 100 goalkickers, high possession winners every week, we need people to buy-intowhatweare doing and have acrack,” he told the group.

“Todaywedid that for fourquarters,we didn’t let them get arun on,wekept our heads up.

“Today was astepinthe right direction, from putting our head over the footy and just being clean with it really pleased.”

The Demonsnow have aweek off to refresh, before playing another premiership fancy in Traralgon Tyers United.

Yarram may have Dan Vardy back in time for thatmatch.The ruckman missed this game through injury,but didn’t appear to be in serious pain walking around the ground.

His brother, WestCoast premiership ruckman Nathan,was in Yarram supporting his home club.

There was some talk of him making a one-offappearance for the Good Friday blockbuster, but thisdid not cometofruition

Imagine Nathan Vardy playing North Gippy, that would be RIP to all ruckmen.

Vardy has aYouTube QR code tattooed on his ankle linked to the last playofthe 2018 AFL Grand Final, of which he played apivotal part.

You can take the boy out of Yarram but Swift was spotted with two VB cans in one hand outside the rooms after the game. You can’t take Yarram out of the boy.

For the Jets, they have now already lost as many games as they did last year.

While some might be quick to label it a premiership hangover, this is hardly accurate when things are put in perspective.

YYN has played Woodside and Yarram to start the season -two sides tipped by most punditstobeamong the competition’s top five, and has had less preseason than nine other NGFNL clubs.

The Jets will start favourite in their next three games(against Rosedale, Heyfieldand Glengarry).

Should they go to 3-2, watch how the narrative changes to ‘back in business’

Somewhat fittingly, YYN coach Barrie Burnett and Underwood were involved in a one-on-onemarkingcontest right near the final siren on Good Friday.

Underwood tookthe mark, and hisside went on to win the battle.

YYN can still well and truly win the war that is the NGFNL premiership.

As goodasYarram’s performance was, Underwood’s last words in his postmatch address perhaps hinted to apotential weakness.

“We’ve got aweek off, don’t go too silly, we don’t have alot of room for people to come in and out.”

THE rest of Round 2inthe NGFNL will be played this Saturday.

Dukes: Campbell MacInnes takesa strong markfor YallournYallournNorth on Good Friday. The Jets wore aspecialheritage jumperhonouring theirYallournhistory

Photographs Zoe Askew

Loyalservants: Yarram pairJosh Swift(200 games) and Griffin Underwood (250)are chaired from theground afterthe Demons win.

When it’s time to downsize and enjoyyour freedom

All set inthe GippyLeague

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

ROUND 2ofthe Gippsland League will be played this weekend.

Matchofthe round sees ashowdown in the South between Leongatha and Wonthaggi, while aSunday match will also be played between Sale and Bairnsdale.

The Parrots last loss was to the Power, back in mid 2021.

There is onlyone game in the Valley this weekend -Morwell home to Drouin.

Moe makes the trip to Western Park to take on Warragul, while Traralgon travels to Maffra. TheLions willbeout to make it two wins from as many starts.

The Tigers and Maroons each have an opportunity to get their first wins of the season on the board, and can takemomentuminto their huge local derby under lights next week.

That game will be played in Traralgon.

North Gippy resumes this weekend

FOOTBALL

NORTH GIPPSLAND

BY TOM HAYES

LOCAL football is back in full swing this weekend afterthe singularfixture took place last weekend. The North GippslandFootball-NetballLeague will complete its Round2fixture.

Traralgon Tyers Unitedhost Woodside, which is tipped to be the game of the weekend.

Last week, TTU hammered Sale City by 85 points away from home, while Woodside got the better of reigning premier YYN by 38 points.

Both sides have high expectations in 2023, so a heated contest is on the cards. Heyfield begin their season in Round 2and travel to Glengarry following abye to open their season. Both teams are tipped to be of similar calibre, so expect the margin to close.

Our first look at Heyfield this season is sure to give us some clarity into how they might shape up. Churchill will feature with back-to-back home games, as they host Rosedale at Gaskin Park.

The Cougars started the season on apositive, defeating rivals Yarram by two goals in Round 1. Churchill would be expected to get the better of Rosedale, despite the Blues' final quarter efforts against Glengarry, where they finishedthe better Rosedale need to be as competitive as possible for as long as possible for any chance of an upset.

To round out the weekend, Gormandalehost their first home game of the year against Sale City.

The Tigers disappointingly lost to Cowwarr by amassive 93 points in theopening round, aside that were on their level last season.

The same equation is on the table for the Bulldogs, who could use Gormandale as leverage for their Round 3clash with Cowwarr.

Odd start to MGFNL season

FOOTBALL MID GIPPSLAND BY

TOM HAYES AND ROB POPPLESTONE

IN bizarre fashion, the Mid Gippsland FootballNetball Leaguewill open with aRound 8fixture, as Morwell East hostFoster at Ronald Reserve. With the other two leagues within our readership underway, clubs in the MGFNL are only just completing their preseasons.

But the real deal begins this weekend.

Due to the fixture change, Morwell East and Foster will now share abye with Newborough in Round 8, scheduled for June 10.

Adisappointing finals exit in 2022for Fosterwill no doubt seethe Tigers wanting to start theiryear with awin at the home of Morwell East.

The Hawks will celebrate its 50th year this season, under the guidance of new and respected senior coach Paul Henry.Morwell East has competed in the MGFNL that whole time.

The task for the home side will be far from easy, however Henry has declared, "we have quiteafew retirees this year, toomany to mention, but we will at some stage see the new faces of Hamish Towns, Michael Diaz, Ben Lewis and Adam Chawner."

The first round of the season is alwaysfull of rust and cobwebs, and with so many changes in the Hawks' line-up, this mightonly be exacerbated.

But every journey starts with its first few baby steps, and Morwell East will begin their climb back to final this Saturday.

Foster, likeMorwell East,have also lostsome talent, in the shape of Josh Toner to Toora, Billy Flavelle to Aspendale and the retirement of Alex Kane, which willbesomewhatsoftened by the recruitment of Will McDonald from MDU.

It is expectedthat the Tigers' juniorswill also play amore significant role this season, after training

withsenior players throughout the preseason, helping to continue the clubs strong culture with aview to again being afinals contender.

Both teams have practice games under their belt on the back of atesting off season, but no matter the work done,every footballer knowsthat the first 30 minutes of the real stuff will have every player on the field gasping for air and wondering why they once again decided to put the boots on. That all disappears as the game unfolds, with a win making it all worthwhile.

Foster, on paper at least, appears to be the side likely to be securing the first premiership points for 2023, but the game isn't played on paper and the Hawks will have set themselves to take ascalp early on at their home ground.

Round 1startsthe following week, which funnily enough will see Morwell East feature for the second time of the year already.

They will once again host, but this time will welcome Hill End to Ronald Reserve.

Tarwin will go to battle with MDU, while bragging rights for the better Creek is on offer between Stony Creek and Fish Creek.

Mirboo North hit the road to face Toora, hopingto grab four points from last year's wooden spooners.

Boolarra host Thorpdale at Boolarra Recreation Reserve, looking to do the same as Mirboo North and poach points from the lesser sides of 2022. Finally, agreatly anticipated Round1fixture will take place at Yinnar Recreation Reserve, in the form of aGrand Finalrematch.

Newborough will want to get back at the Magpies after they won the flag from sixth on the ladder, using momentum through finals that Newborough famously didn't have the chance to do.

It's not too long until the whole competition is in full swing,footballers would be itchingtoget onto the grass andhear that opening siren.

Foster hasthe bye in Round 1.

Xmarks the spot: tournament ahit

FOOTBALL AFLX

BY ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

MOE Racecourse was ahive of activity last Wednesday,April 5, as more than 16 schools and 600 kids withtheir parents and teachers came to compete in the annual AFLX tournament.

The event, run by LowannaCollege and AFL Gippsland, attractsschools from across the Valley to compete in a round-robin style tournament for fun, fitness and prizes.

AFL’s Junior Xisplayed on arectangle field. The game is tackle-free and highly social.

Children played two seven-minute halves, with finals on the cards and a big trophy up for grabs.

The tournament had afestive feel as parents and kids lined up for food and photos at the many vans and exhibitions at the tournament.

The event has grown over the years, and now hosts three different divisions including Boy’s Championships, Girl’s Championships and Boy’s Participation.

This year’s premiers were St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Warragul in the Girl’s division, while St Kieran’s

Catholic Primary School, Moe won the Boy’s Championship, andBoy’s Participation division winners were Drouin South Primary School.

Speaking to Lowanna Sports Academy head coach and organiser of the event, Allan Chandler, he said: “this [tournament] is the third one that we’ve done.

It’s an ideaI had over COVID, so Iwent to AFL Gippsland and said Ireckon we need something else where kids are playingsmall gamesoffooty like we used to do at school.”

For anyone that knows Chandler,you wouldknow that his biggest passions in life are footy and keeping kids active.

“We’re looking for ways to get kids in the sport, get them active and participating and my love has always been footy,” he said.

Lowanna’s Sports Academy students were umpiring, scoring and facilitating the games as partoftheir own schooling assessment criteria.

More than 65 Lowanna students were given that experience away from textbooks,managing those life skills needed whendealing with asporting environment. Students learnt valuable lessons in organisingthe event and interacting with parents and teachers.

Chandlerspokeofthe growth of the tournament over the years.

“The actual event has gotten bigger every year.I think we startedat28 teams the first year and now we’ve got six marquees set up, acoffee van, and afood van making it acarnival atmosphere …Idefinitely haven’t seen this level of carsaround the outside,” he said.

When asked if he thought events like these grew the game of football in the local community, Chandlersaid: “the first time we did it we had the girl’s division and out of that they started an under 12’s comp in West Gippsland …this was the starting point for these girls to start playing footy, so Ithink it definitely helps.”

Hawthorn AFLW players Sarah Perkins and Emily Bates came to support the event, saying how great it was to see so many younggirls interested in the game.

Junior AFLX might soon become a Gippsland-wide event.

“We’re actually working with some schools who might be able to run [AFLX] in the future in other parts of Gippsland,” Chandler said.

Gippslanders experience eventful long weekend of footy

FOOTBALL

AFL EXPORTS

BY TOM HAYES AND LIAM DURKIN

IT was an excitingweek for Gippslandersin the AFL, as we witnessed the newest debutant stepping onto the big stage.

Before that though, Brisbane and Collingwood locked hornsatthe Gabba to begin the long weekend of footy on Thursday night.

In this encounter, two Gippsland products faced off in the form of Yarram’sJosh Dunkleyand Sale’s Scott Pendlebury.

Dunkley and the Lions were able to hand the Magpies their first loss of the 2023 season, defeating them by 33 points.

Pendlebury collected the second-mostdisposals throughout thematch, continuing to get better with age, with 26 touches, four tackles and five clearances.

Not bad for a35-year-old.

Dunkley wasn’t far behind, with 25 touches and sevenclearances,propelling the Lions to a bigwin at home

The Lions tookcontrol midway through the second term and rocked the socks off the Magpies to come away comfortable winners, 18.8 (116) to 11.17 (83).

Sale’s Charlie Combentook to the field on Good Friday for North Melbourne as they hosted CarltonatMarvel Stadium.

The Roos wereoutclassed in the thirdterm, which cost them amajor deficit.

They climbed back late in the final quarter to save an embarrassing result.

Comben didn’t fare so well, only managing five touches, with three tackles and negative

Big stage: Moe footballer BaileyHumphrey madehis AFL debut on Saturday.

Photograph AFL

Topeffort: Morwell’sBen Ainsworthduring his 100th game forGoldCoast on Saturdaynight. Photograph AFL

eight metres gained -the lowest ranked North Melbourne player on the field.

Carlton came home 23-point winners, 16.11 (107) to 11.18 (84),tokeep their recordundefeated in 2023.

Maffra’sSam Berry was rested for the Crows in their mammoth win over Fremantle at Adelaide Oval.

Gold Coast’s game against St Kilda on Saturday night was very much centred on Gippslanders, as Morwell’s Ben Ainsworth playedhis 100th AFL game, and Moe’s Bailey Humphrey debuted.

Moe’s Sam Flanders was left out of the team due to aknee injury which saw him subbed out of the

Spotted: West Coast premiership ruckman Nathan Vardycame home forEaster, watching Yarram do battle with YallournYallourn North.

Round3 clash. Flanders is expected to miss up to six weeks, after scans confirmed an injury to his medial collateral ligament.

Unfortunately, fellow Moe export and St Kilda player LeoConnolly again had to watch from the side-lines. Connolly has not featured at AFL level since late 2021.

Ainsworth was Gold Coast’s fourth-best ranked player on the field with18disposals andone goal, in adisplay which came with eightmarks and four tackles.

In getting to triple figures, he became the 17th player to reach 100 games for the Suns.

Whilethe advent of free agency has meantmany

haveleftGoldCoast over the years, Ainsworth has stayed loyal sincedebuting in 2017.

He is one of only seven 100-game players to have played their entire career with the Suns.

The others are David Swallow, ToukMiller, Alex Sexton, Sam Day, Sean Lemmens and Rory Thompson

Ainsworth has played with anumberofprominent players, most notably Gary Ablett Jr. Fellow Morwell player Changkuoth Jiath played forHawthorn on Monday in the traditionalEaster Monday clash against Geelong.(Detailswerenot known at the time of press).

Humphreywas evidentlyfinding his feet on debut, with 11 touches and two behinds.

Theyoungster played forward, beforegetting a runonthe ball in the last quarter.

By then, the game was over, after ablistering thirdterm from St Kilda saw them kick 5.4 (34) to 1.3 (9), and take a47-point lead at three quarter time, on their way to acommanding 17.11 (113) to 8.12 (60) win, to keep their perfect record intact.

Despite this, Humphrey won the praise of both teammates and commentators alike.

Shoutsof‘good Humpa’ fromGold Coast players were clearly audible from the top tier of Marvel Stadium, whileFox Footy commentator Dwayne Russellsaid “Humphrey has looked good” following atacklethat led to aholding the ball against Saints midfielder Hunter Clark.

AnumberofMoe Football-Netball Club supporters travelled down to Marvel Stadium to watch Humphrey debut, and became Gold Coast supporters for the night.

The man himself showedhis appreciation, still high-fiving wellwisheshanging arms over the race after the match.

Photograph Zoe Askew

Inspire: St Mary’sCatholic Primary School, Newborough students with AFLWstars EmilyBates and Sarah Perkins who came to supportthe event

Study: Lowanna College’s Year 11 sports academystudents Harry, Charlotte andJohn.

Photographs Zaida Glibanovic

Action: Moe South Street Primary faced offagainst YallournNorth PrimarySchool in theAFLX tournament

Fun: Newborough East Primary School girl’steam take on StVincent De Paul PrimarySchool Morwell.

Saturday,

ABC TV (2)

April 15

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 WeekendBreakfast.

9.00 Rage.(PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

12.30 Traces. (Mal,R) 1.15 MOVIE: Here Out

West. (2022, Malv,R)Genevieve Lemon. 3.05

Grand Designs Revisited.(PG, R) 3.50 Scottish Vets Down Under.(PG, R) 4.20 Landline. (R)

4.50 The Secret Lives Of Our Urban Birds. (R)

5.50 GreatAustralian

Stuff:Food. (PG, R)

6.50 Bluey. (R) Bluey and Bingo build aspecial cubby

7.00 ABCNews. Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 TheLarkins. (Final, PG)After Norma confesses to Ma that Pop wasset up,she organisesher ownsting operation.

8.20 Under TheVines (Final, Ml) Oakley Wines enjoys new-found fame and welcomesa surprise visitor

9.05 Grantchester (Final,Mav,R) Afteranother vagrant is found dead, Geordie realiseshemay have sent the wrongman to prison.

9.55 Miniseries: In Our Blood. (Mal, R) Part 4of4.David and Jeremy adopt abold new approach to raisingpublic awareness.

10.50 Fires. (Mal,R)Lightning strikes spark ablaze

11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (PG) 10.00 Love Your Home And Garden With Alan Titchmarsh. (PGa, R) 10.55

Earth’s Sacred Wonders.(PGa,R) 12.00

WorldWatch. 2.00 Ironman. Next Gen Series.

Highlights. 3.00 Figure Skating. ISU Figure

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 TheWonders Of Europe: Versailles,Louis XIVAnd HisDestiny. (PG) Part 2of4

8.30 Titanic’s Lost Evidence.

(Ma, R) Examines thesinking of the Titanicand recently uncovered information aboutthe tragedy.

10.00 Citizen Jane Fonda.

(MA15+a, R) Aportrait of Jane Fonda.

11.00 Outlander (MA15+) Claire and Jamie attend aloyalist event.

12.05 Germinal. (Mav)

1.00 MOVIE: TheEight Hundred.

(2020, MA15+av, R, Mandarin)

3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHKWorld English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage of theupcoming match, featuring hot topics and the latest AFL news.

7.30 Football. AFL.Round 5. Port Adelaide vWestern Bulldogs. From Adelaide Oval.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Awrap-up of thegame,including panel discussion and interviews, with access to players, coaches and staff

11.00 To Be Advised.

12.30[VIC]HomeShopping.

12.35 What TheKiller Did Next:Saima Khan. (Mav,R)Examines the behaviour of the person whokilled mother-of-four Saima Khaninher Lutonhome in 2016.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 GetArty. (R) Ashowcase of artprojects.

5.00 House Of Wellness (PG, R) Alook at locations that highlight living well.

7TWO (72, 62)

1pm

NITV (34)

TributeConcert. 3.30

Ngumpin Kartiya. 3.50 Going Places. 4.50 Bush Bands Bash. 5.50 Dance Ceremony 5.55 Power To ThePeople. 6.25 First People’s Kitchen. 6.55 News. 7.05 The Last Land: Gespe’gewa’gi. 7.35 Stay At Home Animal Dads. 8.30 Alone Australia. 9.30 MOVIE: Poltergeist. (2015,M) 11.30 Late Programs.

Sunday, April

16

TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 WeekendBreakfast. 9.00 Insiders 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 The World This Week.(R) 11.00 Compass. (PGa, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia.(R) 2.30 The Larkins. (Final, PG, R) 3.15 Griff’s Canadian Adventure. (Final, PGd, R) 4.15 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 5.00 Art Works 5.30 AntiquesRoadshow

6.30 Compass:The Sweatshoppers. Alook at Michael Mohammed Ahmad.

7.00 ABCNews. Alook at the top stories of theday

7.30 Grand Designs: South Manchester (Return) Hosted by Kevin McCloud.

8.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mav) Part 1 of 4. Barnaby investigates when asurvivalist is found murdered in his bombproof shelter

9.50 Close To Me. (Mals) Jo’s father tells astory from her childhood.

10.40 MotherFatherSon. (MA15+l, R)

11.35 Smother (Mal, R)

12.30 Road To Now. (Malv,R)

1.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.20 TheHeights. (PG,R)

4.15 The Recording Studio.(Final, PG, R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (PG) 10.00 Love Your Home And Garden With AlanTitchmarsh. (PGa, R) 11.00 The World From Above.(R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian ProMX C’ship.Round 3. 4.00 Cycling. UCIWorld Tour.Paris-Roubaix. Men’s race. 5.00 Going Places. (R) 5.30 The Italians. (R) 5.40 Lost Gold Of World WarII. (PGal, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of TheTasmanian Tiger. Alook at the Tasmanian tiger

8.30 Black Gold. Documents the climate crisis, thecover-up of the century and how acompany CEO, nicknamed Iron-Ass, who discovered the shocking truth 40 yearsago,created ablack ops conspiracy to hide the evidence.

10.00 Muhammad Ali. (PGasvw,R)Part3of4

12.00 24 Hours In Emergency: Going TheDistance. (Ml, R)

1.50 HowThe Nazis Lost TheWar (PGa,R)

3.40 TheSource. (Ma, R)

4.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 AlJazeeraNews.

(7,6)

6am Morning Programs.

6.00 Nine News Saturday.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 MOVIE: HarryPotter And ThePhilosopher’s Stone. (2001, PGhv,R)A boylearnsofhis magical family background and is sent to aspecial school to train to become a wizard. DanielRadcliffe, Rupert Grint.

10.40 MOVIE: TheLastWitch Hunter (2015,Mhv,R)Awitch hunter battles aresurrected evil witch. Vin Diesel, Rose Leslie.

12.30 TheFirst48: Ringside Seat (Mav,R)

1.30 ThePet Rescuers. (PG,R)

2.00 TheIncredibleJourney Presents (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

9GEM (92,81)

6am MorningPrograms.

10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian 11.00 Seaway Noon MOVIE: CarryOnCleo. (1964 PG) 2.00 MOVIE: ILiveInGrosvenorSquare. (1945) 4.25 MOVIE: The CruelSea. (1953,PG) 7.00 Rugby Union. SuperRugbyPacific. Round 8. NSW Waratahs vWestern Force. 9.30 Super Rugby PacificPost-Match 9.45 MOVIE: DeathRides A Horse. (1967, MA15+) 12.10am Late Programs.

6am Children’s Programs.

2pm MOVIE: Pokémon The Movie:

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGaln, R) Followsthe work of elite lifeguards

6.30 TheDog HouseAustralia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown.

8.30 Blue Bloods. (Mav) Eddie’sformer partner,Rachel Whitten, accusesan officerofexcessive force.Danny clashes with afoster child involved in his latest case. Erinmust makeatough decision abouther run fordistrictattorney.

9.30 CSI: Vegas. (Mv) The CSIteaminvestigate the mysterious death of acompetitive eating contestant, while Chavez partners with Allie to provewhere themysterious silver ink notes havebeen coming from.

10.30 NCIS. (Mav, R) Amarine private is murdered.

11.30 Fire Country. (Mv,R)Sharon receives life-changing news

12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.00 NBC Today [VIC]HomeShopping.

7.00

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Farmer WantsAWife. (PGl) Hosted by Samantha Armytage.

8.30 Kath &Kim:20Preposterous Years. (PGalns, R) Kath and Kim are joined by friendsand stars to take a look inside the Kath&Kimuniverse.

9.40 Born To Kill? PeterSutcliffe “The Yorkshire Ripper”. (MA15+av) Alook at serialkiller Peter Sutcliffe.

10.40 Quantum Leap (Mav)

11.40 AutopsyUSA:Donna Summer (Ma, R)

TheRookie. (Mav,R)

6.00 NineNewsSunday

7.00 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters. (PG) HostedbyHamish Blake

8.45 60 Minutes Current affairs program, investigating, analysingand uncovering the issuesaffecting all Australians.

9.45 Nine News Late. Alook at the latest news and events.

10.15 Australian Crime Stories: The Chinese Takeaway (Mdlv,R)Takes alookataninfamous bank robbery.

11.15 TheFirst48: Score To Settle And In HerArms. (Malv)

12.05 Law&Order: Organized Crime (Mav,R)

1.00 TheGarden Gurus (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Of Victory. (PGa)

6.30 TheSunday Project. Alook at theday’snews.

7.30 I’mA Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities must must face their fears with the return of theViper Room trial.

9.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv) When residents at aUSNavy base find their vehicles burglarised, the team connects it to aseriesofpeculiar crimesand tracks down an unlikely bandit. Whistler struggles with an uncooperativeCI.

10.00 FBI (Mav,R)Ayoung couple are murdered.

11.00 TheSundayProject (R) Alookatthe day’snews.

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBSMornings.

Monday, April 17

6.00 TheDrum

7.00 ABC News Alook at the top stories of theday

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 Australian Story. Presented by Leigh Sales.

8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism programexposing scandals,triggering inquiries, firing debate and confronting taboos

9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Paul Barry takesalookatthe latestissues affecting mediaconsumers.

9.35 Q+A. Public affairs program.

10.35 ABC LateNews.

10.50 TheBusiness. (R)

11.10 Tall Poppy: ASkater’s Story. (PG, R)

12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.30 AntiquesRoadshow.(R) 4.30 The Drum.

(R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 TheSecret Life Of Lighthouses: BeachyHead Part 1of3

8.35 My Name Is Reeva: IWas Murdered By Oscar Pistorius. Part 1 of 3. Takesalook at the murder of Reeva Steenkamp by her boyfriend Oscar Pistorius.

9.3024 Hours In Emergency: Journey Of Life. (Ma, R) Acompilation of stories from St George’s Hospital,includinga retired nurse with chronic hip and leg pain.

10.25 SBS WorldNewsLate

10.55 Reyka. (MA15+av) Six bodies are found in thecane fields.

11.50 Miss S. (Ma, R)

3.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.30 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home And Away (PG)Tane mixesfamily and business

7.30 Farmer WantsAWife. (PGl) Hosted by Samantha Armytage.

9.00 Miniseries: TheClaremont Murders. (Malsv) Part 2of2.Police investigate when threeyoung womengo missinginClaremont in thelate ’90s.

10.50 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.20 HowToLook Good Naked. (Man,R)Stylist GokWan transforms two sisters-in-law

12.20 TheRookie. (Mav,R)

12.30[VIC]HomeShopping.

1.20 Kochie’s Business Builders (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBCToday

7MATE (73, 64) 6am Morning Programs.

6am MorningPrograms. Noon Border Security 1.00 Rides Down Under:

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters. (PG) Hosted by Hamish Blake

8.50 RPA. (PGm) A25-year-old adventurer and rock climber has hit the limits of survivalfrom hislifelong liver disease

9.50 Nine News Late Alook at the latest news and events.

10.20 Footy Classified. (M) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

11.20 TheEqualizer (Mv,R)

12.10 TheFirst48: Blood On Bourbon. (Mlv,R)

1.00 Hello SA (PG)

1.30 TV Shop: HomeShopping (R)

2.30 Global Shop (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoiceOfVictory. (PGa)

Tuesday, April

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS WorldNews

7.30 Who Do YouThink You Are? US: LisaKudrow. (PG) Lisa Kudrowexploresher roots.

6.30 TheProject. Alook at the day’snews and events

7.30 I’mACelebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The remaining 12 celebritiescontinue their efforts to claim the title and acash prizefor charity

9.00 Ghosts. (PGhls) After learning that Pete’s daughter,Laura, is getting married, Sam, at Pete’s behest, tries to convince her to hold her wedding at the Woodstone bed and breakfast.

9.30 FBI: MostWanted (Mav)The team pursuesthe suspects responsible for an explosion at an Ohio energy plant.

11.30 TheProject. (R) Alook at the day’snewsand events.

12.30 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBSMornings.

9GO! (93, 82)

Urban Birds: Brisbane. Part 2of2

10.00 Stuff TheBritish Stole: Chipped Away (PG,R)

10.30 ABC LateNews.

10.45 TheBusiness (R)

11.00 Four Corners. (R)

11.45 Media Watch. (PG, R)

12.05 MotherFatherSon. (MA15+l, R) 1.05

Shakespeare And Hathaway.(PG, R) 1.50

Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Antiques

Roadshow.(R) 4.30 The Drum. (R) 5.30

7.30.(R)

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi takes alook at what drives people to seek revenge, and the consequencesoftheir actions.

9.30 Dateline: Chidren ForSale. Explores the sex trafficking underworld.

10.00 SBSWorld News Late

10.30 Living Black: 20-Year Anniversary. (R)

11.30 Manayek. (Madls)

12.25 Dignity (Malv,R)

4.00 Mastermind Australia.(R) 5.00 NHK

World EnglishNews Morning. 5.30 ANC

PhilippinesThe World Tonight

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home And Away (PG) Eden seeks advice from Kirby

7.30 Farmer WantsAWife. (PGl) Hosted by Samantha Armytage.

9.00 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PG) Sketch comedy seriesthat parodies some of Australia’s favouriteTVshows.

10.00 TheGood Doctor (Mam) Apatient comesinwith COVID symptoms.

11.00 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.30 Police Custody USA:A Murder In TheFamily (Malv,R) 12.30 What TheKiller Did Next. (Mav,R) [VIC]HomeShopping.

7.00

7.30 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters. (PG) Hosted by Hamish Blake

8.50 David Attenborough’s Frozen Planet II:FrozenPeaks. (PGa) Explores ice worlds born of altitude, which havebeen found on every continent.

10.00 Nine NewsLate Alook at the latest news andevents.

10.30 Chicago Med (MA15+am)

11.25 CourtCam. (Mlv)

11.50 SuspectNumber 1: Crime Wave (Mlv,R)

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa)

6.30 TheProject. Alook at the day’snews andevents

7.30 I’mA Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The camp faces its second elimination, with another celebrity’s time in thejungle comingtoanend

9.00 Grease: Rise Of ThePink Ladies. (PGalns) In the ’50s, four fed-upoutcastsattendingRydell High School spark amoral panic

NCIS (Mv,R)A US Navy reservist is murdered.

TheProject. (R) Alook at the day’snews and events. 12.05 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

Community Corner with Liam Durkin

Newpresident

NEWBOROUGH Probus Club held its annual meeting in March and elected anew committee and office bearers for the coming year.

The PresidentofMoe Rotary Club, Mr Robin Noakes, capably oversaw this process and wished our incoming president Lindsay Kingall thebest for the coming year.

Our activities committeehas been very busy.

In February, 25 members gathered at the Old Gippstown Heritage Park Cafe, Moe, to share breakfast together.

March saw 30 members visit the Maltese Museum in Morwell for avery interesting tour and alovely lunch.

We areplanning to visitthe Morwell Plastic Moulding Factorytolearn about this local industry and yes, this outing includes lunch! One of our members commented, “Looks like we are eating our way through the year!"

Our clubhas awarm friendly atmosphere and we welcome new membersto join us and make new friends.

To learn moreabout Newborough

Greyhound walking group

ANEW walking group is emerging in the Latrobe Valley and it’s 'greyt'.

Bring achair andadog rug for acoffeeand treatatthe local café afterwards.

Phone DavidRoberts on 0468 431 731 for more information.

Probus Club, phone Deidreon0412 518 382.

That’s right, it is awalking group for greyhounds (and their owners)that meets on the last Sunday of every month.

As Greyhounds becomeincreasingly popularaspets, this groupprovides an opportunity for owners to share their experiences of rehoming aretired greyhound as well as creating awelcoming and positive environmentfor dogs to socialise as they adapt to life as apet.

Greyhounds make great pets as they require little grooming, rarely bark, sleep most of the day and only need a short walk each day.

Theyare suited to many types of households including properties with small yards.

Thereare many organisations set up to assist with adopting agreyhound including Toongabbie Lodge, Racing 2 Rehomeand the GreyhoundAdoption Programthrough Greyhound Racing

Victoria

Field naturalists

ON Friday, April 21 from 7.30pm, the Latrobe Valley Field Naturalists' Club will host an online presentation by Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater.

Incoming: Recently elected Newborough Probus Club president LindsayKing beingcongratulated on his appointment by Moe Rotary Club presidentRobin Noakes Photographs supplied

The Latrobe Valley Greyhound Walking Group has more than30members and can be found on Facebook.

The next walk is on Sunday, April 30 at 9.30am, leaving from the car park at Traralgon Tennis Club.

Mr Bruce Quin,Senior Ornithologist at DEECA and Eliza Lamb, environmental coordinator for the Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater, will discuss the recovery work done in Victoria for the critically endangered emblematic species. The public are invited to join LVFNC members at the Moe Library, George St, Moe, or via Zoomfrom their homes. There is also an excursion the following day to the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve. Please visit our website to register if you wish to use Zoom and/or come on the excursion. For more information, phone our secretary on 0410 237 292.

Christian creators

THERE will be aChristian creators fair on Saturday, April 22 from 10am until 3pm at the Churchill Christian

Birdisthe word: AHelmeted Honeyeater

Fellowship Hall on Tramway Rd, Churchill (next to the soccer club). Withstallsfrom writers, artists, musicians and craftspeople, there will be plenty of great giftsavailablefor Mothers' Day. There will be live music

Walk

and talk: Anew greyhound walking group has been established in the area.

during the day, and fun activities for the kids,and acoffee van and sausage sizzle will be available to stave off the hunger pangs.

Memorial service

IN 2021, Traralgon Cemetery Trust started holding amemorial service at Gippsland Memorial Park, intending for it to become an annual event, where the returned service men and women,buried, interred or memorialised within the grounds of the cemetery can be commemorated.

Before 1947, the dawn service was held at the cemeteryand everyyear, thereturnedservicemen made their way to the cemetery by various means over the years.

There,the servicewas held wherethe service men and women were honoured.

From 1947, this service has been held at the cenotaph in the Kay Street Gardens.

Theservice includes an addressbyaRAAFrepresentative, aclergy blessing, and the traditional musical pieces sung by Mary Mirtschin and with thebugler breaking the minute’s silence,which are part of any ANZAC Day Memorial Service. The service will followwith refreshments and ANZAC Biscuits in the oak room.

Mapsshowing wherethe BoerWar Soldiers and WW1 Soldiers, buried or memorialisedwithinthe cemetery,are located,will be available for anyone who wants to take their own walk. The graves are shown with apoppy tile.

Anniversarycelebrations

UNITED Muslim SistersofLatrobe Valley (UMSLV) organised iftar dinner and 10th anniversary celebrations on April 2atTrafalgar Public Hall, on behalf of the Islamic Council of Victoria and Victorian Multicultural Commission.

It's always apleasure to attend iftars in regional Victoria and enjoy their warm hospitality.

The event was attended by more than 200 guests including the Muhammad Mohideenvice president of Islamic council of Victoria and VMC commissioner, Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O’Callaghan, Deputy MayorofBaw Baw Shire Michael Leaney, Health Assembly chief executive

Ellen Jane Brown, Latrobe Health Advocate Jane Anderson, Gippsland MulticulturalServices chief executive Sally Gafa, LatrobeValley Authority chiefexecutive Chris Buckingham, West Gippsland Management Authority chair Mikaela Power, and Acting Senior sergeant with his police team Dave Favye.

UMSLVhas achieved many goalsand supported the Gippsland community, and also worked promoting interfaith activities and multiculturalism, which was evident by the tributes paid recently. There wasa presentationmadebyDrAlyce and BethnayonCOVID and vaccination by Gippsland Health.

Children and young people enjoyed activities run by Street Games.

UMSLV president ArfaKhanretreated that, UMSLV has become avoicefor local Muslim community and works alongsideother groups and government to amplify the needs of local Muslim community.

Familyfun day

MARKET stalls, food vans, children’s entertainment, face painting, coloured hair spray, raffles/ luckynumber draws, Police ProactiveUnit, Ambulance Victoria, CFA and SES willall be present at the Code 9Foundation Family Market Day on Saturday, April 29 at 2Prince Street Rosedale, from 9am to 2pm.

Code 9provides aplace of support for current and veteran professional first responders and 000 operators who live with PTSD, depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions that result from their service to the community.

This support is availableboth in the ‘virtual world’, as well as via organised peer-to-peer

‘catch-up’ nights, coffee meet-ups and other formal events.

The path through mental illness can be an isolating and lonely road.

At Code 9, we reach out and teach one another that they are never alone in their respective journeys, and we protect, support and encourage one another to do what is necessary to recover.

For more information, visit code9ptsd.org.au

Moe ArtSociety

LATROBE CityLibraryinMoe is hosting work by artist Cheryl Cook that shecreated forthe Edward Hunter Bush Reserve Management.

Cheryl’s work is auniqueand wonderful display using textilesand native vegetation from the reserve.

Otherwork on display throughout the library is worksbyMoe Art Society members Chris Peters, Wendy Nickson and Beryl Galloway.

Beautiful oils by artist Del Smith are displayed behind the reception desk and on the far wall.

Moe Art Society’smonthly challenge of portraits is also on display.

The library is worth avisit to view all these art works in oils, pastels, acrylics, and mixed media.

Moe Art Society meets at the libraryevery Thursday from 9am until 3.30pm.

Members show their work on arosterbasis throughout the library.

The society’s yearly Spring Art Show is held in Octobereach year with the main sponsor being Latrobe City along with Energy Australia and local businesses.

This year we will be including artwork by local schools, The Studio, and the Mainstreet Artists from Life Skills.

All visitors and new members are welcome. Enquiries can be made to secretaryPeter McLarenon0400933 609 or president,Beryl Galloway on 0407 271 686.

Mobile skin checks

THE Lions VDistrictCancerFoundation’s $460,000, mobile skin cancerscreening unit operating across Victoria, set up early in the Moe Bowling Club car park on the weekend of April 1 and 2, for free screening to the public.

The Foundation was formed in 2018 with the initial aim of puttingskincancercheck awareness on the road.

Supported by Lions Clubs, Lions Foundations, as well as public and privatephilanthropic organisations, the unit was operational by 2021 and officially launched in March 2021.

The unit provides afree skin check facility, which also serves to educate and inform people of the important need for skincare and protection.

Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world.

Sponsored by the Lions Club of Moe and supported by Moe Bowling Club by providing their facilities for the project, over 123 in the community were screened, and many extras were fitted in whowandered in off thestreet or werebooked in the next day.

Thirty-six people were asked to follow up with their skin specialists. One was advised theirs’ was urgent.

Feedback from the public was great and would like the screening unit back.

The screening units members were very accommodating, with team leader Rob continually promoting skin screening importance, Lions in general and the many projects Lions are involved in.

Abig thankyou to the Lions members that provided the morning, afternoon teas and lunch, the setting and packingupcrewsand theMoe Bowling Club for providing their facilities for this community project.

Traralgon BridgeClub

RESULTS for March 27, 28, 30.

Monday, 1stKevin andMarion Taylor 74.40 per cent, 2nd Barbara Brabets and Anne Moloney 52.98 per cent.

Tuesday, N/S1st Greg Nicholson and Kaye Douglas 73.57 per cent, 2nd Rob Graham and Glenis Lohr 58.21 per cent,E/W 1st Carol Cheyne and Fred Kaminski 64.17 per cent, 2nd Heather Watt and Anne Howes 57.50 per cent.

Thursday, N/S 1st Greg Nicholson and Kaye Douglas62.33 per cent, 2nd Phillip Goode and Barbara Barr57.00per cent, E/W 1st Ken Tierney and Anna Field 69.67 per cent, 2nd Heather Henley and Fred Kaminski 58.67 per cent.

Results for APRIL 3, 4, 6

Monday, 1st KayBaxter and Monika Cornell 60.50 per cent, 2nd Kaye Douglas and Steph Gissara 58.50 per cent.

Tuesday, N/S1st Greg Nicholson and Kaye Douglas 54.91 per cent,2nd Ken Tierney and Anne den Houting 52.23 per cent, E/W 1st Glenis Lohr and Rob Graham 67.31 per cent, 2nd Carole Cheyne and Fred Kaminski 59.97 per cent.

Thursday, 1st Ken Tierney and Anna Field 61.85per cent, 2nd Heather Henley and Fred Kaminski 61.48 per cent.

Very well done to Kaye Douglas and Greg Nicholson who came fourth in our recent nationwide competition. If youare interested in learningmore about bridge, pleasephonepresident Greg Nicholson on 0419 365 739.

Seizethe Day

LATROBE Orchestra and friends perform music from the stage and screen.

The LatrobeOrchestra is delighted to support centenarian JudyHallOAM to Seizethe Day in herdebut performance on the GPAC stage, performing the second movement of Beethoven’s sublimePiano Concerto No. 5inE-flat major, Emperor, as heardinthe film Dead PoetsSociety

The Latrobe Orchestra will also perform legendary film scores from Titanic (featuring MaryMirtschin) and Apollo13, The Lordof the Rings, Superman Returns,and Rodger and Hammerstein’s Sound of Music Lavalla Catholic College Senior Concert Band, Senior Jazz Ensembleand Senior Choir will delight audience members of all ages, featuring aspecial performanceofthe commissioned workGunai Dreaming.

All tickets are $20, available at GPAC or online at latrobe.vic.gov.au/gpac/events/Seize_the_Day For more info, call AlisonTeychenne on 0402 125 848.

50/50 dance

TRAFALGAR Lions Club is holding a50/50 danceatthe Trafalgar PublicHall,Contingent St.Trafalgar, on Sunday, April 16 from 1:30pm. Local band Not Dun Yet will providelive music. This dance will be family-friendly so all are welcome. Please bring aplate to share during the afternoon

tea break.

Coffee, tea, sugar and milk will be supplied.

If you can't dance, comealong andenjoythe music or sing along to 50's and 60's rock and old time songs.

For further information phone John on 0488 047 777 or Alan on 0410 089 430.

Chess results

IAN Hamilton solved the problems in key battles to complete the round in first place,and lostagainst newplayer Alan Crosier.

Being forced into alosing positioninthree games was not PeterBakker’sbest round, but confidence returned after two late wins.

Steve Ahernfought hard but only found the correctline in one battle and finished with one win and three losses.

Clever tactics resulted in two wins for Cliff Thornton, but he was checkmated in the other battles.

The early exit left Mat Bolding with one win and one loss, waiting tillthe next week to complete the round.

For more details, phone Ian Hamilton on 5134 1971 or Cliff Thornton on 0413 330 458.

Our Kinda CountryDay

AFUNDRAISING even was held at Flanagans Bar Traralgon, to raise money for the Royal Children's Hospital on Sunday April.

Member for Morwell Martin Cameron assisted with the auction and Evan Platschinda was our auctioneer.

With moneyraised on the day and adonation from Our Kinda Country we were able to give the appeal $5000.

Traralgon Senior Citizens Centre

CURRENT programs are bowls (Wednesday and Friday 1pm), patchwork/needlework (Monday 12pm) exercise class (Tuesday 9.30am),cards 500 (Tuesday 1pm), Tai Chi (Thursday 9am).

Membership costs $4 per year, activities $2. Afternoon or morningtea followingactivity is free.

Phone Bill on 0413 728 652 between 10am and 4pm weekdays for further information.

FirstExpress'

THANK YOU to those who have called and sent emails regarding original first edition copies of the Express It has generated much interest wondering just how many genuine first editions are out there. To those who have reachedout, I(Liam Durkin) will endeavour to get back to you in due course. Ilook forward to seeingthem and hope you indeed have 'the real deal'.

From the Editor

NOW for afavour.

Can Irespectfully ask thosesending in pieces for community corner to not call me or the office asking if we have received your email.

Rest assured, if an email does not bounce back, and has‘community corner’ in the subject line, it means we have received it.

As I’m sure you can appreciate, our inbox is filled with literally tens of thousands of emails. Trying to find just one wastes time unnecessarily.

If you haveanything you would like to submit for community corner, please email news@lvexpress.com.au by Friday 9am.

Liam Durkin

LV Express Editor

Great service: Screening unit at Moe Bowls Club with waiting public andvolunteers

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With their expanding workshop in Traralgon, theynow have the facilitytoundertake all insurance jobs from respected and major insurance providers.

J&S CaravanServicesare an authorised service agent forJayco Theycan take careofany warrantyjobs or servicing requirements foryour newJayco caravan, along with the maintenance/fitting of aftermarketaccessories

J&SCaravan Services arealso acertified ALKOElectronicStability Control (ESC) installer and a dealer forGRIPSPORTbikeracks

Duetocustomer demand, they also stockasmall amount of commonlyused parts,and can order in anything else needed within the week (ifinstock with the supplier).

FORMER Heyfield resident

Barbara Bednarski was recently honoured with the Inspirational Women's Awardbythe Women's Interfaith Network in Narre Warren.

Barbara's journey began when she and her family arrived in Australia in the 1950's, spending their firstyears in three migrant camps, includingCowra, Bonegilla, and West Sale.

Eventually, the family settled down in Heyfield, where Barbara beganher career with Australia Post, formerly known as PMG.

After her time at Australia Post, Barbara went on to work at St. Lawrence Aged Care Facility and theState Electricity Commission (SEC)inMorwell.

In the 1990's,she moved to Fountain Gate and pursued a carer's certificate in gerontology,

while continuingher workat Australia Post.

Eveninretirement, Barbara remains active in her community by volunteering with Wesley Mission and the multicultural women's group.

Through activities such as knitting, sewing, and crocheting, she fosters connections with others in the community and offersher time and companionship.

At home, Barbara cherishes her three birds,one cat, and adog, appreciatingtheir unconditional love and constant companionship.

In her free time, she enjoys dancing, traveling, socialising, and reaching out to people.

Barbara's dedication to her community and her compassionate nature have made her adeserving recipientofthe inspirational women's award.

Locally made, better protection uniforms forvolunteer firefighters

CFA volunteers in Victoria will get locally made uniforms that provide better protection from heat Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes, visited Stewart &Heaton in the northern Melbourne suburbs last week to tour the local manufacturer delivering the protective clothing.

The roll out of the wildfire PPC is supported by the government’s $126 million CFA Capability Funding Package, with $10.85 million going towards the production of up to 29,000 sets of state-of-the-art protective clothing.

The PPC will be manufactured through Stewart &Heaton, which will support local business and create 15 new jobs and support 15 existing roles.

The new gear will feature CFA’s iconic yellow, but will be made of lighter weight materials with

better design for function and comfort.

The PPC is specificallytailored for both men and women, ensuring asafe and comfortable fit.

Thejackets featureanew epauletteholder on thechest,reinforced elbow patches, front-top and lower pockets on both sides and radio pockets..

The trousers have elastic back waistbands with large belt loops, two back pockets and hip pockets. Manufactured using HainsworthEco-Dry Shield woven fabric, the garments have an inherent fireretardant, including comfort, ease of movement and breathability.

With the staggered rollout expected to begin in the coming months, the design of the PPC was informed by volunteers providing input on what they wanted to see in their new uniforms.

Well done: Former Heyfield resident Barbara Bednarski withher inspirational women’s award.

Photograph supplied

required prior to publication unless afullaccount is held with the Latrobe Valley Express.

Angus, Limousin, Jersey, Hereford and Friesian, very quiet. 0447 331 762. RABBITS Fresh dressed rabbits (not farmed), top price paid. Phone 0417 775 969.

Moe Soup Van

PLEASE NOTE:

Confirm your email if youhave not received a confirmation email from us, emails ARE NOTALWAYS RELIABLE and we don’t alway receive them

Mail: Latrobe Valley Express, “Attention Classifieds’’ 21 George Street, Morwell 3840

Newsagents:

Most Newsagents act as our agents and will accept your advertisements up until the same deadlines as above

Credit Card:

When placing your advertisement over the phone or via email you charge it to your Mastercard or Visa

to place your classified in our WEDNESDAY PUBLICATION 5135 4455 E X P R E S S C L A S S I F I E D S Phone: All classifications before 3pm Monday

Lenny 0418 514 132 Landscaping Mulch Beautify your garden. Bulk quantity available, $25m3. Phone 0412 613 443 or 1800 468 733. MOE, U1/40 Haigh Street, Sat., 8am-2pm. Camping gear, furniture, fridge, kid's toys, household goods and fishing gear, bric-a-brac and more.

Port Poultry Farm Delivering 18 week old Isa Brown laying hens to your area, Sat. 15 April $28 ea. Ph 0438 832 535. To Let •

TIBETAN Spaniel, p/bred fem. pups, 2gold, 1parti colour, vacc., Tibbies make wonderful

0431, PER No. RB100506. Phone 0423 349 913.

hot water sys. (LPG), electric oven. Split sys. for heating/ cooling. This easily transportable home is 7m Lx 2.8 Wx 3H $79,000 (incl. GST). For all enq. contact Brendan 0424 392 716. For Sale •

HALFPRICE FORSALEADS FO

Place a6line

TRARALGON, 4David Crt, Sat. 8am-2pm. Downsizing, many household items, incl. port-a-cot, sunbeam series, coffee machine, tent, car rims and tyres to suit BMW X5.

Legal Notices

•

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

JANE LOUISE MORREY

-for oneedition

We are looking for volunteers to provide food and friendship to the homeless community in Moe as part of our soup van program.

The primary aim of our soup van program is to offer food, social connection, and referral pathways out of homelessness and poverty, to people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness and disadvantage.

Are you well organised? Do you have apassion for supporting the vulnerable in the community? Are you available to volunteer at least one daya week? Then this role is for you!

Moe Soup Van will provide soup, sandwiches, fruit and other food and drinks to some of the most vulnerable members of our community once through aweekly street stop service (day/time to be determined).

Deceased, late of 27 Parer Avenue, Moe, Victoria. CREDITORS, Next-of-Kin and others having aclaim in respect of the Estate of the Deceased who died on 15 September 2022 are required to send written particulars of their claim to the Administrators c/- PO Box 104, Moe, Victoria, 3825 within 60 days from the date of publication of this Notice, after which date the Administrators may convey or distribute the assets, having regard only to the claims of which they may then have notice of.

O'HALLORAN DAVIS, Solicitors, 12-14 Kirk St, Moe 3825

Public Notices • Auctions •

E. G. STAR AUCTIONS PRELIMINARY

NOTICE

MASSIVE VINTAGE TRACTOR and BULLDOZER and FARM MACHINERY AUCTION

Great Alpine Road, Lucknow via Bairnsdale

Saturday, 22 April 2023

John Deere BR, AR, D, JD model tractors; 2John Deere mini 40c bulldozers; John Deere 2130 and 1120 tractors; pasture harrows, hay rakes, slashers, stick rakes, disc and chisel ploughs; hay bale lifter and scoops; 1942 Furphy water tank; antique Hornsby &Rosebury stationary engines; lge qty other farm machinery and sundries.

Toilets and catering on site.

Payment by Cash, Cheque, EFTPOS, BPay on the day. Tilt tray delivery truck for hire at site.

Auctioneer TOM MORRIS 0407 098 805

Clearing

ALLAMBEE SOUTH CLEARING SALE

TRACTORS,FARM PLANT &EQUIPMENT

Friday21st April2023 at 10am

A/cJ& JBilney &Outside Entries

3195 Grand Ridge Road, Allambee South (Property Sold)

Massey Ferguson -6470tractor 2005 Dynashift 4x4, with cabin +FEL +forks 125hp -6000 hours; Massey Ferguson -6130tractor 1996 Dynashift4x4 with cabin +FEL forks +bucket,85hp- 9000 hours; Suzuki LTA4x4 ‘KingQuad’ motorbike with roll over protection; Honda 500 4x4 motorbike;John Deere582,round baler,5ft approx.38,000 bales; Kuhn hay Tedderrake; Vicon 3pl ‘V’rake; Kverneland 8-disc hay mower;Hustler x5000 chainless feed out;Reece ‘RH2200’ soft hands;round or big square baleforks;Challenge silagegrab, Eurohitch;Webcofeed wagon;Taarup 1015 silage loader wagon; ConnorSheaseeddrill,14rung coil type; Berends hydraulic 8ft grader blade with levelling wheel; David Brown 3pl 6ft grader blade; paddock roller 8ft; 400ltr spray unit,boomand reel; 3pl counterweight;Kanga pasture topper 3metre;ripperwith pipe layer;Hughes 4in1 bucket; Crump ‘Kurrajong’1000spreader(needsrepair); bale forks;Ferguson 3pltiller; Hardi 800ltr sprayunit with boom; Polymaster 2000dieselfueltankwithelectric pump; 7Tyne Ag ripper; poly-pipe spinner; M.F.2furrowplough; David Brown reverse scoop bucket; stick rake; saw bench; Hydraulic logsplitter; Wick wiper8ft;Advantage‘Creep’ 1800hd grain/pelletfeeder; 60ltrmotor bike spray outfit; travellingeffluent irrigator + 100mtr hose; Davey effluent pump; 300ltr milk trailer calf feeder; various calf feeders; concrete feed troughs; Mobilco hay elevator; pipebender; ‘Lincoln’ jet welder 480 volts; Gerni ‘Hot Wash’ 2302A pressurecleaner; compressor; concrete mixer; 20ltr drum tipper;wheelbarrows; steel trestles; various tools; Trewellerjacks; ‘Antique’ Treweller hand winch andcable;old milk cans; assorted gates;assorted pipe fittings;polypipe; electricfence reels, insulators and assoc.;pineposts;lengthhardwoodtimber; 1250ltr stainless steel milk vat; stainless test buckets; variousothersundries

cheque on day of sale; no buyers premium, GSTwhere applicable, lunch and refreshments available

OUTSIDE VENDORSINVITED,

YOU HOARDING ITEMS THAT COULD BE TURNED INTO ONE MAN’S TRASH IS ANOTHER MAN’S TREASURE!! With an audience of over 76,000 you’re guaranteed to reachMORE locals than Facebook ADVERTISE YOUR GARAGE SALEIN THE

EXPRESS TO REACH MORE LOCALS

various sizes from $85 p.c.m. Contact Strzelecki Realty on 5127 1333.

AWorking with Children's Check, Police Check and Food Safety Certificate are required before you commence, and are arranged and paid for by Vinnies. To attend and serve on the Soup Van Program, you must be aged 18 or over.

If you are interested in becoming avolunteer, please email us at: soupvans@svdp-vic.org.au for more information or call Ian Hardy 0409 852 449

APPROVAL GP1 655530

Voicemail introductions advertisements and voice messages may only be submitted by persons 18 years and older. When making contact with people for the first time, it is advisable to meet in apublic place and let amember of your family or atrusted friend know where you will be.

your ad on the

Optus plans to upgrade the telecommunications facilities at the below mentioned address with the addition of new 5G equipment: 65-67 Eastern Road, TRARALGON VIC 3844 (RFNSA: 3844025)

The proposed upgrade consists of -

● The installation of new headframe

● The removal of three (3) existing panel antennas

● The installation of six (6) new panel antennas (each is no more than 2.8m long)

● The installation of six (6) new Remote Radio units (RRUs)

● The installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment including RRUs, antenna mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and

● Other associated equipment and the works within the existing equipment Outdoor Unit (ODU).

Optus regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities)Determination 2018 ("The Determination") based on the descriptions above.

In accordance with Section 7ofC564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposals. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Lynette Brandwood or 0429 392 255, or via the Service Stream Wireless Consultation inbox at Optus.submissions@servicestream.com.au or Zenith Centre, Level 3, Tower B, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2167, by 5pm, Friday 28 April 2023.

If you would like to know more about this sites, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au

HELLO

BABY

Parents are welcome to email a copy of your newborn photos for publication to our editorial staff - news@lvexpress com au with the subject line ‘baby photo

O B

Mum s maiden name Mum and Dad’s names

For Sale • Garage Sales • For Sale • Public Notices • Livestock • Wanted To Buy • classif ieds@lvexpress.com.au MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM-5PM Classifieds 51354455 Page 32 —The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 12 April, 2023

Port Welshpool Harbour

Local Port Area Plan

Gippsland Ports, the local port manager, is looking to the future and considering options to make the harbour safer and more accessible for commercial and recreational vessels.

To do this Gippsland Ports will develop aLocal Port Area Plan. Afuture use plan for the Harbour which aims to improve the safety, sustainability, operations and functionality of the Harbour.

Gippsland Ports wants to hear from people who use, and have aconnection with Port Welshpool Harbour to understand how it can create a sustainable local port.

Meetings and Drop-in Session are to be held on Thursday 27 April 2023 at the Port Welshpool Ferry Terminal Building, Lewis Street, Port Welshpool

11am -12.30pm Commercial Operators and Berth Permit Holders Meeting

Meeting with existing and potential commercial operators and berth permit holders to better understand user requirements.

2.00pm -4.00pm Drop-in Session

Drop-in anytime between 2.00pm and 4.00pm to speak informally with Gippsland Ports staff, find out about the plan and share your views.

5. 30pm -7.30pm Roundtable Discussion

Attend amore formal roundtable discussion with harbour users and other interested community members to share your views about future directions for the Harbour.

For further enquiries, or if you cannot attend the sessions and would like to provide your input, please contact Gippsland Ports via email feedback@gippslandports.vic.gov.au; visit the website www.gippslandports.vic.gov.au/news or scan the QR code below.

MORWELL OFFICE HOURS- ANZACDAY

RECEPTION and CLASSIFIEDS

will be CLOSED on Tuesday 25th April 2023

NEWS STORIES can be directed to the Newsroom on 5135 4434 or email: news@lvexpress.com.au

CONCRETING

Door

to Catholic education and to the safety and wellbeing of children.

The appointment will be subject to asatisfactory National Police Record Check and Working with Children Check. Please email principal@stgtraralgon.catholic.edu.au for aposition description or more

How to apply:

Please email your application to the principal via: principal@stgtraralgon.catholic.edu.au inclusive of CV and application form available at www.stgtraralgon.catholic.edu.au/careers

Applications close: Wednesday, 19 April 2023 at 4pm.

Gas Appliances

Install -Service -Repairs Co Testing -Gas Safety Check.Contact Paul 0428 877 432. Lic.103230.

GIPPSLAND ARBORICULTURE

SPECIALISTS TREE REMOVALS

Pruning, stump grinding, hedging, nest boxand habitat hollowscreation, insured and qualified.

Brent 0403 080 315 SERVICING ALL AREAS

Gutter

Gippy Gutters -industrial vac, qualified plumber. Phone 0455 855 147.

John'z Home Maint.

Handyman. General maint. &repairs. Fencing &brick work repairs, driveway pressure wash/colour, tile repair/replacement, door/ door handles, tapware replacement. 0418 581 631.

Specialising in commercial, residential work, over 30 years experience. For prompt and reliable service to all the Gippsland region phone Joe 0421 374 463.

St Luke's Medical Centre Is seeking apracticing GP outside Traralgon CBD preferably. SLMC is known as an Accredited: teaching clinic and supervisors. Email CV

CareersatLatrobe

LatrobeCityCouncilhasexcitingopportunitiesforenthusiasticand forward-thinkingindividualswithapassionforprovidingexcellent servicestoourcommunity

• ResourceRecoveryOfficer- Projects - ResourceRecovery Officer -ProjectsTemporaryFull Time

• AdministrationOfficer -Latrobe Leisure MoeNewboroughMoeNewborough -Permanent Part Time

• Preschooland Childcare-MultiplePositions

-Casual

Forfurtherinformationincludinghow toapply,positiondescriptionsand applicationclosingdates,pleasevisitour websitewww.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

Pleasenotesuccessfulapplicantswillbe requiredtoapplyforandsatisfactorilyobtain aNationalPoliceCheckandWorkingwith ChildrenCheck.

www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

Mayes Barbers require a QUALIFIED HAIRDRESSER Haircuts only, midweek work, 1-2 days, 9-5pm. Upskilling provided if needed Phone 5127 3849

DELIVERERS WTD

Would you like to deliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Morwell, Traralgon, Moe, Newborou gh and Churchill? Please apply to the Circulation Manager 0456 000 541. Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for

St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School is seeking applications for the following position at Warragul JuniorSchool.

Office Manager and Personal

Assistant to Head of School

Full time -ongoing Commencing as soonaspossible

If you areinterested please forward acurrent resume and cover letter to hr@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Fora copy of the Position Description please refer to our website: www.stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Applications close Tuesday17April 2023

Wisdom Integrity Compassion Respect

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE:

Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns. Our Situations Vacant columns are reserved for advertisements which carry aspecific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for `Business Opportunities' and `Training Courses' and `Employment Services' should be submitted under those headings. Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trades Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.

Expression of Interest

Panel for the Provision of Contractor Goods and Services

Contract No EGCMA 177

The East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from suitably qualified contractors for willow and weed control, revegetation, fencing, machinery and equipment hire, supply of native seeds and plants, and supply of rock.

The period for this panel is from 1July 2023 to 30 June 2026.

Copies of the EOI can be obtained from the EGCMA website -www.egcma.com.au -orthe Tenders Vic website -www.tenders.vic.gov.au

CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 5pm, Wednesday 26 April 2023

Dr Amber Clarke Acting Chief Executive Officer

Use the Latrobe Valley Express to turn your clutter into cash!!

REQUEST FOR TENDER

Council is seeking submissions from qualified companies/applicants for the following:

RFT/365 -Management and Operation of Selected Aquatic Venues within South Gippsland

Tenders close 2pm AEST on Tuesday 9May 2023.

Documentation is available from Council's e-Tendering Portal www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/tenders

Caravans •

Cash in Hand!

It’s easy,just call 5135 4455 and put an ad in the paper today!

Motor Mart EXPRESS

CASH FOR CARS

Afull time position exists for an enthusiastic person with customer focus to help us continue growing in our Morwell Branch.

The successful applicant will be required to work within our small team environment.

Ideally, you will have experience in stores and/or spare parts/a mechanical aptitude with a background in external sales.

Previous experience in the Bearing Industry would be an advantage. Computer literate and a Victorian driver's licence are required.

Duties will include but not be limited to:

● Counter/phone sales and quoting

● Goods received/purchase orders

● Stock control Remuneration to be negotiated dependent upon experience.

Only mailed or emailed applications will be accepted.

Managing Director PO Box 3100, Morwell 3841 roger@gippslandbearings.com.au

ARE

People and CultureManager

Areyou looking for anew challenge in athriving regional area?

Exciting career opportunity for aprofessional to lead the People and Culture stream within achanging industryand high growth business.

Team-oriented and inclusive workplace culturewhich promotes health and wellbeing and work-life balance.

Permanent,full-time position with generous salarypackage including employee bonus, subsidised health insurance, five weeks of annual leave, above SGC superannuation contributions and motor vehicle allowance.

About us

LoyYang Bisanelectricity generator located in the picturesque Latrobe Valley currently supplying around 20% of Victoria’s power.We’reowned by Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE) andbelong to the Alinta Energy family,agrowing and innovative energy marketdisrupter

We’refocused on maintaining world class plant performance, efficiency and flexibilitywhile actively re-inventing ourbusiness to support theenergy transition.

Our highly skilled workforce is our greatest asset and we strive to empower everyone to reach their full potential.

We’recommitted to increasing workforce diversity and creating an environment wherepeople feel empowered to speak up, raisenew ideasand explorewhat’s possible.

We constantly strive to support our community and meet their expectations on environmental management,health, safetyand good corporate citizenship.

About theopportunity

We’relookingfor an energetic, capable, and high performingPeople Leader to join our team.

As amember of the LoyYang BManagementTeam, you’ll be pivotal in influencing and shaping our future, and contributing to the development and implementation of our overall business strategy

What you’ll do

URGENT

Would you liketodeliver theLatrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesdayand/or Wednesdayafternoons in Traralgon, Morwell and Newborough.

Please apply to:

The Circulation Manager 0456 000541

Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit. Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted.

Adult deliverers also welcome GP1 632593

Reporting to the Business Support Manager,you’ll work closely with the management teamand keystakeholders to support the achievement of the organisation’s strategic objectives by leading and supporting the People and CultureTeam, setting the strategic direction, framework and design for all People and Cultureactivities within LoyYang B, andpartnering with the leadership team to implement strategies to attract,engageand develop our team to build on our high performance culture.

What you’ll need

Skills to empower,motivate, lead, mentor,coach and develop our people.

Demonstrated excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The abilitytoachieve successful business outcomes through functional and informal networks.

Atertiary qualification in Human Resources, Business/Commerce or Industrial

Relations is highly desirable.

Significant demonstrated and directly related experience as aHR/IR practitioner and people leader is essential.

Experience negotiating Enterprise Agreementsishighly desirable. If this sounds likeyou, don’t ignorethis opportunity, makesureyou: Apply via our careers page www.loyyangb.com.au/careers

Position closes Wednesday, 3May 2023

LoyYang B– powering your career!

LoyYang Bwelcomeapplications from peoplewith diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds andpeople with disability.Wewill provide reasonab eadjustments for individuals with disabilitythroughout the recruitment process. If you identify as a person with disabilityand requireadjustments to the application, recruitment,selection and/or assessment process, please advise via the above email and indicate your preferred method of communication (email or phone) so we can keep in touch and meet your needs.

2012 SR5 HILUX

Manual, one owner, 306, 000kms., ARB canopy awning, rear draws, roof racks, Maxis all terrain tyres, excellent condition, drives as new, RWC, reg. YWA-321, $26,000 ONO. Phone 0407 808 180, 0418 353 077.

MOTORING

Minimum 6 lines$56 without aphoto or $70withacolour photo Total of 4consecutive editions in the Latrobe ValleyExpress and 8editions of the Gippsland Times paper THEY DO SELL!

DRIVE YOUR DOLLAR FURTHER Cars and Caravans areindemand

5135 4455

Motorcycles •

Blue/black BMW 2014, f800 GS, Adventure Touring Motorbike, 12,200kms, reg till July '23 $12,800, ph 0419 523 761

Caravans •

Camper Trailer

Sleeps 4, fully equipped, good condition, $900. Phone 0408 241 319.

CAMPERVAN

Nissan 1988 high roof, many extras including solar panels. Roadworthy cond. Ph 0457 671 525. 681 YIA

GUY, John Vincent (OAM) (JP).

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on 9April 2023. Aged 85 years

Loved and loving husband of Pam for over 61 years. Much loved and adored Dad to Peter and Heather. Loved father-in-law to Susan and Mark. Adored grandad to Josh, Damon, Ryan, Callum and Jarrod. Agentle man Now in God's Care

GRANT'S RoyalFlair

2011, 21ft, reg. July '23, Limited Edition, dual axle, hot water service, full ensuite, washing machine, large bed, rev. air cond., fully maint., large fridge, many extras $42,000. Ph 0412 963 561.

Selling avan?

Don't waste time waiting for buyers, or on endless consignment plans, sell it today we'll pay cash now. Affordable Caravans 0418 336 238, 5623 4782.

4WD •

Nissan Navara

1991, manual, v.g.c. r.w.c. vin 21A0433493. $8,000, phone 0475 690 520

HALL, John Alister (Alister). 10/12/1932 -3/4/2023. Loved and loving husband to Gladys for 65 wonderful years. Loving father and fatherin-law to Max, Jeanette and Michael, Valerie and Derek and Ian. Adored Grumpy to ten grandchildren and proud Great Grumpy to nine great grandchildren. Acherished family man and afriend to all. Always up for achat and ajoke or three!

Forever in our hearts, Always in our minds

HIGGINS, Brian Joseph.

Passed away peacefully at the Austin Hospital, with family by his side, on Friday 7April 2023.

Aged 71 years Much loved and loving husband of Pam. Loved and respected father and father-in-law of Rod and Jodie, Kylie and Chris, Mick and Christine and Brooke and Mark. Loved Poppy of Milla, Oscar, Harper, Aiden, Elijah, Ollie, Zoe, Sienna and Indiana. Loved brother of Phill and Suzanne and Nola and Rob. You worked so hard for those you loved, You always did your best, You fought until you could no more, and now you are at rest. Sadly Missed

Personals

Deaths •

BAINES, Harry Ronald. Passed away suddenly at LRH on 2April 2023. Aged 73 years Loved husband of Ronda, and loving dad of his girls, Barbara (dec.), Michelle, Ellie (and David) and Sandie (and Dale). Loving Pop of all his grandchildren. No more frustration H. Go Pies!

HUNT, Leslie John (Les). 28/10/1943 -6/4/2023. Passed away peacefully at St Vincent's Private Hospital surrounded by family. Dearly loved husband of 56 years to Meryl. Much loved father and father-inlaw to Darren and Le-Anne, Jason and Lauren. Loved Pop to Aidan and Tyra. Samuel, Charlie and Eli. Son of the late Bill and Gwladys. Brother and brother-in-law to Heather and Marty, Neil and Nina. You have left abig hole in our hearts. Rest at last

BOND, Maurie.

The Chairman, Board of Directors, Members and Staff of the Morwell Bowling Club are deeply saddened by the passing of Maurie. Maurie was a well-respected and long-standing member of the club. We offer our condolences to his family and friends at this sad time. At peace.

BUNN (nee Theordore), Rosemary Florence.

Passed away at home on Sunday 9April 2023. Loved by all her family. Service details to be advised.

HUNT, Les. Our friend Les has passed. He was aleader in the community, aformer Citizen of the Year in Latrobe City, an educator, broadcaster, thespian and all round good guy. Our sincere condolences to Meryl, Darren, Jason and families. From Barry and Di Whitehead. Rest peacefully Les

KEMP, Victor Allen (Vic).

Passed away suddenly on 4April 2023.

Aged 81 years Dearly loved husband of Carol. Loved father of Julie, Helen, Trevor, and Susan. Loving stepfather of Kylie and David. Adored Poppy and Grandpa to all his grand and great grandchildren. We will hold you in our hearts until we can hold you again in heaven

LANGMAID (nee Rippey), Eileen Agnes. Passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Traralgon on Saturday 1st

April 2023.

Aged 69 years

Beloved daughter of Tom and Nancy (both dec.).

Cherished sister of Fiona, Jim (dec.) and Tom (dec.).

Adoring mother of Melissa, Darren and David. Loved and respected mother-inlaw of Leanne. Cherished grandma to Erinn, Maverick, Carly, Dylan, Jesse, Lachi, Montanna and Phoebee. Great grandma to Eli and Aria. Beloved aunt and graunty to Belinda and Jodie and Kayla, Caitlyn and Charlotte.

Always gentle loving and kind, What lovely memories you leave behind, In God's care you rest above, In our hearts you rest with love.

LANGMAID, Eileen.

Beloved mother of Melissa.

Loving sister of Fiona and loving aunt of Belinda and Jodie.

MacDONALD, Donald

John.

Passed away peacefully at Estia Health Grovedale, on 1st April 2023.

Aged 86 years

Dearly loved husband of Margaret (dec.). Much loved father and father-in-law of Alastair and Mardie, Cameron and Jane, Kirsty and Sean. Adored Donny to Tilly, Amity, James, Will, Harvey, and Jack.

McNAIR, Dorothy.

Passed away peacefully 5April 2023.

Much loved mother of Mark and Karen.

Mother-in-law to Rachael and Paul. Grammy to Elle and John, Tia and Tyler, Beau, Bella and Angus. Great Grammy to Jude and Hugh. In our hearts you will stay, Loved and remembered every day. Sleep well Mum XXX

PENDERGAST (Donald), Brenda Ann. Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on 2April 2023.

Aged 68 years

Dearly loved mother of David (dec.), Greg and Jo, Kylie and Andy, Euan and Vanessa, Clive and Jenelle. Adored Gran of Charlie, Finlay, Will, Milo, Eleanor, Scarlett, Harvey, Grace, Jack (Ghost Rider) and Sadie.

Dedicated Cub Scout Leader of the Thorpdale and Mt Baw Baw District for 30 years.

Close to our hearts you will always stay, Loved and remembered everyday.

5/4/1940 -6/4/2023.

Joy, Jenni, Cathy, Cherry, Melody and Ben and families wish to advise the passing of Cliff, adored husband, dad, grandpa, great grandpa, brother, uncle and mate. Cliff was apotent loving force who protected, provided for and celebrated his family his whole life. For those lucky enough to call him friend, he was generous, fun and warm.

Our hearts ache, but we are buoyed by knowing that Cliff's life, though not always easy, was filled with love, joy and simple pleasures. We have faith that his spirit prevails in all of us.

Thank you to all who have provided us with support, including the wonderfully caring staff at Mitchell House in Morwell, who looked after Cliff in his final days.

As in life, Cliff did death his own way. He requested no funeral. Instead a celebration of Cliff's life will be held at the Boolarra Bowling Club on FRIDAY (21 April 2023) from 2pm to 5pm. If you knew and loved Cliff, we welcome you joining us.

SCHELLING, Cheryl

Dawn. Passed away peacefully with family by her side on Wednesday 5April 2023.

Aged 71 years Loved wife and soulmate of Lee. Much loved mother of Joanne and Steven and mother-in-law of Trina. Grandmother to Jesse, Alex and Danielle.

So dearly loved

So sadly missed

TIMMINS, Douglas (Doug). Passed away quietly with his family by his side on Wednesday 29 March 2023.

Aged 82 years Loved and loving husband of Betty. Loved and loving Dad of Sandy, Susan (dec.) and Annie. Fatherin-law of John, Kelvin and Lenny, and good friend of Liz. Poppy to Aaron, Elise, Christopher, Ryan, Scott, Tyler and Georgia. Great Poppy to Sascha, Xander, Nash, Lacey, Parker, Rylie, Skylah, Beau and Cailee. The gates of memory never close

TIMMINS, Doug. Traralgon West Cricket Club including Life Members and past players would like to pass on our condolences to Doug Timmin's family and friends and the Glengarry Cricket Club. Timmo was alegend and agentleman of Traralgon cricket and will be sorely missed.

WALSH, Tony (Anthony Paul). 21/6/1950 -6/4/2023.

Passed away peacefully. Aged 72 years

Loved and loving husband of Maryanne. Much loved Dad to Belinda and Darren, Brian and Christine, Paul and Tina. Loving Grandpa to Shane and Vicky, Chantelle and Lachy, Jake and Chantelle, Aaron and Bree, Jessica, Jarod and Montanna, and Sharni.

Great Grandpa to Jed, Beau and Archer. Sadly missed by his best friend Jackie. "Breathe Easy"

BAINES. The Funeral Service for Mr Harry Baines will be held at the Newborough Bowls Club, 112 Monash Road Newborough, on FRIDAY (14 April 2023) commencing at 1pm. Followed by Private Burial No flowers by request.

0413 332 647

BRANDON. The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Margaret Greens Brandon will take place at the Rose Chapel, Gippsland Memorial Park, Cemetery Drive, Traralgon on MONDAY (17 April 2023) commencing at 10am. The Ceremony will be livestreamed. Please see Julie Harwood Funerals Facebook page for link.

KEMP. The Funeral Service for Mr Victor (Vic) Kemp will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway Traralgon, WEDNESDAY (19 April 2023) at 1.30pm. Vic's Service will be livestreamed. To view the livestream, visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on livestreaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

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LANGMAID. APrayer Service for the Repose of the Soul of Mrs Eileen Agnes Langmaid will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway, Traralgon, MONDAY (17 April 2023) commencing at 2pm. Following the Service the Funeral will leave for the Traralgon Cemetery, Gippsland Memorial Park.

TIMMINS. The Funeral Service for Mr Douglas "Doug" Timmins will be held at, the Doug Timmins Oval, Cairnbrook Road, Glengarry on WEDNESDAY (12 April 2023) commencing at 2pm. Following the Service, the Funeral will leave for the Toongabbie Cemetery. Doug's Service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream please visit our website.

latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

TOUHY. AService to celebrate the life of Mrs Margaret Mary Tuohy will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes H'way, Traralgon, THURSDAY (13 April 2023) commencing at 11am.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

GUY (OAM). AEucharist and Thanksgiving Service to celebrate the life of Mr John Vincent Guy (OAM) (JP) will be held at St Mary's Anglican Church, Latrobe Road, Morwell on TUESDAY (18 April 2023), commencing at 1.30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart Foundation would be appreciated. Envelopes available at the Service. (Private Cremation).

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

The Funeral Service for Mr Alister Hall will be held at the Boolarra Cooperating Church Boolarra on FRIDAY (14 April 2023) at 11am.

The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Boolarra cemetery. Alister's Service will be livestreamed, to view the livestream please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and go to livestreaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

HIGGINS. The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mr Brian Higgins will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437A Princes Drive, Morwell MONDAY (17 April 2023) commencing at 11am.

Brian's Service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream visit our website. In lieu of flowers, donations to MND Victoria would be appreciated. Envelopes available at the Service or donate onlinemnd.org.au/donations

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

HUNT. The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mr Leslie John "Les" Hunt will be held at, Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway, Traralgon on FRIDAY (14 April 2023) commencing at 11am. No flowers by request.

Leslie's Service will also be livestreamed, to view the livestream please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MacDONALD. The Funeral Service for Mr Donald MacDonald will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway Traralgon on TUESDAY (18 April 2023) at 1.30pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

McNAIR. The Funeral Service for Mrs Dorothy McNair will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway Traralgon on MONDAY (17 April 2023) at 11am. Followed by aprivate family cremation. Dorothy's Service will also be livestreamed. Please visit our website for details: latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

PENDERGAST (Donald). The Graveside Funeral Service to Celebrate the life of Brenda Pendergast will be held at the Childers Cemetery, 277 Chute Rd, Childers, WEDNESDAY (12 April 2023) at 11am.

WALSH. The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Tony will take place at the Rose Chapel, Gippsland Memorial Park, Cemetery Drive, Traralgon on TUESDAY (18 April 2023) commencing at 10.30am.

MOE 5126 1111 MORWELL 5134 4937 TRARALGON 5174 2258 www latrobevalleyfunerals com au Contact our caring highly experienced and qualified team or visit our website for more details

H Hoonnoouur r yoouur r loovveed d onnees s annd d s shhaarre e thheeiir r s sttoorry y

WILSON. AService to Celebrate the Life of Peter Wilson will be held at the Nielsen Funeral Chapel, Korumburra Rd, Warragul, NEXT WEEK, FRIDAY (21 April 2023) at 2pm.

The Service will also be livestreamed. To view Peter's Service visit: www.nielsenfunerals.com.au APrivate Cremation will follow.

In Memoriam

CARSTAIRS-PROTT, Joan.

John Galbraith is one of Latrobe Valley's most well known and experienced Funeral Director's. Thinking of having aMemorial Service? Call John for advice without spending lots of $

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Family owned and locally based Funeral Directors

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SCHELLING. The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mrs Cheryl Dawn Schelling will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes H'way, Traralgon, TUESDAY (18 April 2023) commencing at 11am.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

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CORTI, Lou. 14/4/2008. Dad, it's often said that time makes the loss easier. We still miss you so much, we who loved you on earth, still love in Heaven. Your loving family.

FAWCETT, Pat. 12/4/2019. Aloving thought, Asilent tear, Aconstant wish, That you were here. Loved andremembered always Jack, Mark, Anita and family.

Bereavement Thanks •

QUIRK, Barry. Elaine, Lauren, Steve and family wish to thank all who sent cards, flowers, food, phone calls, messages online and attended the Service for Barry on his sad passing. Our grateful thanks to nursing staff on Avon ward at LRH for their amazing care of Barry, to Archdeacon Sue Jacka and catering volunteers at St Mary's Anglican Church, Morwell and to Mark Riddle at LV Funerals for their care and kindness to us all.

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Latrobe Valley Funeral Services has been helping the local community for more than 70 years Our Chapels are fittedwiththe latest visual technology including the option to livestream a Funeral from any location. Alarge function room is available adjacent to each chapel to provide catering and refreshment facilities. G P 1 6 3 9 1 1 5 MARK RIDDLE Funeral Consultant DAVID HASTIE General Manager ALLAN WORTHY Funeral Consultant MYRA KRAFFT Funeral Consultant STEVE EVANS Funeral Consultant Funerals • Deaths • Funerals • Funerals • Deaths • Funeral Directors • The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 12 April, 2023 —Page 35

GREYHOUNDS

IN 2019,the Sandown Greyhound Racing Club identifiedthe need for afacility to assist participants preparing greyhounds through all periods of their life cycle, including the incredibly vital rehoming stage.

It led to the opening of Toongabbie Lodge, astate-of-the-artrehoming facility in the Gippslandarea that helps greyhounds transition into their new lives as pets. Whether their racing careers have just ended or even if they hadn’t begun, Toongabbie Lodge prepares each dog for life’s interactions, including the relationship with fellow pets. Once ready, Toongabbie Lodge offers canines to the public, taking into account the different needs and lifestyles of specific owners.

Sandown Greyhound Racing Club chief executive Adrian Scott highlighted the importanceofafacility like Toongabbie Lodge.

“These wonderful athletes are very well cared forbytrainers acrosstheir racing lives, but to have afacility which helps these dogs make that transitiontobeloved pets is essential,” he said.

“The popularity of greyhounds as pets across Australia has skyrocketed in recent years.There’s hardly aday that goes by where you don’t see agreyhoundwalking the streets with its owner. The recent surge in popularity is hardly asurprise.

"Greyhounds are such aloving and friendly breed of dog and theyhave heaps of character. They are especially great around children, thanks to their gentle nature.”

“Weoften have peoplecontact Sandown Greyhounds looking for astarting point regardinggreyhoundadoption. We’re proud to give people in the Gippsland area an opportunity to enrich their lives by adding agreyhound to their families.”

If you are keen to adopt agreyhound, call Toongabbie Lodge rehoming manager Deb Brown on 0419 500 824 to enquire about the latest canine friends looking for anew home.

For more information, visit www. toongabbielodge.com.au

Bestbuddy: Those interested in adopting agreyhound as apet are being encouraged to seeToongabbie Lodgemanager Deb Brown.

Toongabbie Lodge helps with rehoming Traralgon Harriers shine in quick time at champs

ATHLETICS TRARALGON HARRIERS BY MILES VERSCHUUR

FIFTY-NINE Harriers completed the biannual athletics track championships on Thursday, March 30, with each athlete running 12.5 laps for afivekilometre run.

On atypical Autumnal evening, cold and ahint of rain, the Harriers completed acombined total of 717.5 laps, or the equivalent of running from Traralgon to Ballarat -287 kilometres away.

The format ensured there was plenty of encouragement as the runners counted down their laps.

Pete Cutleriscontinuingtoimpress in his triumphant return to Thursday nightrunning, blitzing thefield in atimeof16.41,almosttwo minutes ahead of the inseparable Miles Verschuur (18.22) and Ian Cornthwaite (18.23).

Freshly returned from competing in the kunanyi Mountain Run (kMR) in Hobart, the previous weekend, Verschuur and Cornthwaite were neckand-neck for the entire course. Another returning speedster, Michael Tripodi, proved he has not lost his touch, with atimeof18.45.New runner James Redmondfinished in 27.00, an impressive Harriers debut.

Yani Cornthwaite continuing her string of successful races including Six Foot Track Marathon in New South Wales, kMR in Tasmania, and the Emergency Services Half-Marathon, by just missing out on asub-20-minute time. Three minutes behindwas the inimitable Liz Kenney in 23.01, withMarieka Reillyshowing considerablegrowth in runningtobe40seconds behind Kenney.

The next Sunday,10Harriers ventured to the PortofSale to support'Race the Rubeena', with five and 10.5-kilometre options and money going towards the Rotary Club of Sale.

The race is structured to enable some runners to do both distances.

Harrier supporter and Glenhuntlyrunner Jordan Cowley (and his impressive moustache) won both events in 35.01 and 17.00.

In the 10-kilometre event, Greg Semmler impressed, running 40.00 to finish third. Clinton Jolly and DarrelCross were onlythreeseconds

apart, and Liz Kenney (49.57) finished second in the female category.

In the five-kilometre event, Jay McGown(24.15) was the fastest male Harrier, alongside Ella Warner (31.16).

The Springwood Championships are on again in 2023, with 8km and 4km options at Crinigan Road Bushland Reserve on Sunday April 16. See the Harriers Facebook page for further details.

The Harriers Winter Season has started, with the 5km Park Lane course on the North-East side of Traralgon.

With yearly memberships open, it has never beenabetter timetojoin the inclusive, welcoming Harriers.

Results:

Newborough Track5km:

Pete Cutler16.41,Miles Verschuur 18.22,Ian Cornthwaite

18.23, MichaelTripodi 18.45,OwenNotting 19.34, Clinton Jolly19.38, Stephen Renehan 19.46, GlennCrawford

19.56, Andrew Greenhill 19.57,Yani Cornthwaite20.02, NickTalerico 20.13,AnthonyMagaldi20.16,DaveMann

20.16, ChrisFrancis 20.39, JohnnyRoscoe 20.40,Nelson Archibald 21.00, Jason Odlum 21.35, Pete Sanders21.46, Chris VanUnen 22.00, Andrew Panayiotou 22.05, Jay McGown22.15, Geoff Francis 22.30, Paul Rollandin

22.35, Paul Johnson 22.41, Liz Kenney23.01, Stephen McLeod 23.04, Giuseppe Marino 23.36, MariekaReilly

23.40, Gary Fox 23.40, Ian Twite24.23,Andrew Broberg

24.31, Tobiasz Grzmil 24.38, RonVerschuur 25.11,

DesleyTulloch 25.12, Phill Mayer25.14, Kathleen Kent 25.19,Michelle Sawyer 25.25, Collette Hofmann 26.06, Alysha Duncan 26.07,MarkFairbairn26.13, Susan Poole 26.36, Alfie Warner 26.57,James Redmond 27.00, Matilda Lappin27.05,FelicityBeasley27.26, Kate Rowe 28.24, BenMarino 28.39, Maree Graham 29.14, Ella Warner 29.18,Mandy Ellis 29.44, John Richards 30.00, Kate Cumming 30.40, Adam VanBaalen 30.59, Denise Twite39.38, Kaye Livingstone 40.00, LukeWitham42.30, ChristinaCreighton43.15, WallyLappin 20.42 (2km), Helen WhitbyNTR Race theRubeena (selected results):

10.5km: Jordan Cowley35.01, Greg Semmler 40.00, ClintonJolly42.51,Darrel Cross 42.54, Andrew Greenhill 45.31, Liz Kenney49.57,Errol Poole51.34, Cindy Hasthorpe 53.47

5km: Jordan Cowley17.00, JayMcGown 24.15, Tobiasz Grzmil27.05, Alfie Warner 27.58, EllaWarner 31.16, Samantha McGown 37.37.

Exciting round of LatrobeValley soccer to come

SOCCER LVSL BY LAURIE WILLIAMS

LATROBE Valley Soccer League recommences this weekend following the Easter break. Round 4has anumberofexcitingmatcheson the cards, as teams look to gain some early season ascendency.

 NEWBOROUGH/YALLOURN VFALCONS

TWO experienced teams will do battle in match of the round.

Falcons aresittingprettywith potent strikers able to destroy any defence. In the three outings so far, Falcons has scored 13 goals, but are set to face asternest test in the form of the Combine. Newborough/Yallourn willbelooking for a response after going down to Pegasus 5-1 last round.

 MOE VPEGASUS

DUEtothe vagaries of the draw, Moe has already missed three weeks of soccer, with two byes and Easter.

An opening match 1-0 win over Olympians has been the only game played by the Red Devils so far, and they’ll be itching to get back on the park.

Pegasus has shown their start to the season has been good, with some promising new players in their line-up. They have scored an impressive 13 goals to four against, withnew keeper Joel Thompson replacing Santo Simon as custodian.

Strikers Kuku Mahmoud and Germaine Otiero have been busy, and will give Moe’s defence a torrid time.

The Red Devilswill be looking to Connor O’Hanlon and Oscar Sceney to fire them up around the midfield.

 FORTUNA VMONASH

FORTUNAwill be at home for the first time, which has allowed the ground to recover from drainage and other works.

They are up against Monash, who are the hard luck story at the moment, with three losses in three matchesbut have been close to collecting points on occasions.

Their position thisweekend is not going to be any easier, coming up against second-placed Fortuna,

who have hammered 14 goals to one so far.

Jordan Campbell has been electric for the Lions, andhe’llbea dangerous player if allowed to score.

Fortuna are sitting in acomfortable position and should be too strong for Monash.

Strikers Jake Budija and Hayden Tanti will be looking to add their names to the scoresheetfor Fortuna.

 SALE VCHURCHILL (SATURDAY 7PM)

CHURCHILLtraveldown the highway to do battle with Sale under lights on Saturday night.

Sale is enjoying the season with two out of three wins so far.

Swans coach Anouk Meereboer is pleased with the way the team is playing, but they need to raise the standard once again to be competitive against top four teams. Wins over Tyers and Monash have given the Swansastepping stone, but their loss to Fortuna in Round 1perhaps indicates they havesome work to do.

Churchill, with two losses,are out to be competitive against Sale, and they showed against Falcons they can put the brakes on opposition scoring.

Sale are in the top four at the moment, but have leaked eight goals while posting only two more. They’ll needtotighten up across the back and not give the Rams strikers any room to score.

Churchill needs to be watching Sale’sman of the match against Monash, Marrien van den Heuvel, who can create opportunities up front.

This match presents an interesting subplot as Sale can go 3-1 and Churchill can break the ice.

WOMEN’S FIXTURE:

Sale vChurchill (Sat 3pm), Newborough/YallournvFalcons, Fortuna vMonash, Moe vPegasus, East Gippsland vTyers

2ND DIVISION:

Sale WhitevFortuna, Traralgon City vMoe, Monash vSaleGreen

Photograph supplied

Fun: HarriersTobiaszGrzmil, Darrel Cross and LizKenneyenjoying Race theRubeena in Sale

Pace: EllaWarnerleads out theHarriers field. Photographs supplied

Team: Traralgon Harriersonce againimpressed on theNewboroughtrack

ARCHERY

By TOM HAYES

REPRESENTING your country, no matter the cause, is recognised as an honour around Australia.

That is what Traralgon’s Rhys Pollerd was able to do when he travelled to South Australia for the 2023 Trans-Tasman Challenge.

Rhysisa 13-year-oldarcher who competesin the under 14 compound bow division for Twin City Archers,inMorwell,and has quickly developed the skill of archery.

He wasa partofa 33-personsquadrangingfrom people, like Rhys, in the under 14 division, all the way up to under 21s.

As part of the Trans-Tasman Challenge, both Australia and New Zealand selected ajunior team to go to the range and face off against each other.

Rhys treats archery as any other sport, training twice during the week on Tuesdays and Thursdays and then competing on the weekends.

He explained how he found himself becoming interested in archery.

“I used to play hockey, and Iquit that because it wasn’t really that fun,” Rhys said.

“So mum made me do asport,soIpickedarchery

“I’ve alwayswanted to do archery, now that Ihave the chance to, it’s worth it and very fun.”

Rhys was fortunate enough to get the news, and wasstoked to know he could takehis archery to the next level.

“It will be fun shooting, and gettingtoknow people,” he said.

“It will be very fun, going to Adelaide for it."

He cheekily admitted he was excited that he was able to skip school for the event.

Rhys believes he can continue to represent Australia on more occasions in the future, explainingone of his goals could be to reach the Olympics.

“I guess Olympics, but Idon’t knowbecause these types of bow have only been introduced into Olympics recently,” he said.

The bow type that Rhys uses is mainly used for Paralympics, but thereisWorld Cup opportunities that he could travel overseas for.

“That’s quite possible, along way down the track,” Rhys’ dad Scott Pollerd said.

Scott only got into archery about six months ago, but enjoys seeing his son become successful at it, and has taken aliking to it.

Confident: Rhys Pollerdtravelled to Adelaidetocompete in the Trans-Tasman Challenge.

“We were pretty happy with Rhys coming along to Twin City Archers, their beginning program is pretty good,” Scott said.

“It will be great to see him putting on an Australian archery top and shoot with that on that’ll be abit of abuzz."

Rhys’ coach Chris Bird was excited to see his student do so well and reach high heights so early into his archery career.

“It’s exciting to watch his growth and see where he has come in 12 months,” Bird said.

Youngster on target Baseball champs held in Valley

BASEBALL

By AMY FORRESTER

MORWELL Cougars Baseball Club and Traralgon

Redsox Baseball Club recently hosted the annual Gippsland Championship.

Nine teams, including some from Melbourne, participatedover the weekend starting Saturday, April1

Moe/Newborough Dodgershad astrong start to the tournament, pulling out all the stops and being undefeated in the round robin.

Sale had astrongshowing both days, winning three games and having aloss against Dingley.

Traditional powerhouse Dingleywon threeround robin games, but just couldn’t hold top spot, tying with Traralgon in theirlastgame of the round robin, putting them second on the ladder.

Morwell Cougarshad adecent side but only

managed one win against Westgarth, to go with three losses.

Westgarth didn't winamatch, although they had some close games.

TraralgonRedsoxstarted off with aloss against Moe/Newborough. The Redsox then won two games against Churchill and Pakenham, but just couldn’t get that extra run during the tie with Dingley.

Pakenham Pumas started the weekendoff strong, winning their first game against Churchill, but struggled to keep up the momentumwith three losses after that.

Churchill Braves had aslowerweekend,only winning one game against Westgarthand having three losses.

Mornington Pirates showed they had potential with a2-2 record for the weekend.

After the five games were playedbyeach team, the top four teams on the ladder stood: Moe/ Newborough Dodgers, Dingley, Sale Rangers and

TraralgonRedsox.

Semi-finals saw Moe/Newborough and Traralgon end on atie Dingley won their semi-final against Sale, to book aspot in the final, opposed to the Dodgers.

The Grand Finalbeganwith Dingleyatbat with the Dodgers doing what they do best and keeping the runs at bay.

The Dodgers' at batwas looking pretty good until an out at home base.

With six innings past with no runs on the board, Dingley got at bat at the top of the seventh, scoring 10 runs before the Dodgers got the last out.

Withonly30minutes leftinthe game,the Dodgers had achancetoredeem themselves with runs,but Dingley wasn't havingthat, finishing the game with a0-10 win.

Dingley now holds the title of Gippsland championships for the second year in arow.

Coming together to celebrate world game

SOCCER

By ZOE ASKEW

SALE United Football Club defeatedhosts

Traralgon Olympians Soccer Club 1-0 in the inaugural GO Soccer Mums Gippsland Cupon Sunday, April 2.

Sale's Jenny McGuinness scored the winning goal just minutes before the final whistle.

Football Victoria's introductory soccer program designed specifically for women, GO Soccer Mums, offers participants afun, active and supportive setting to meet new people and learn basic football skills in asocial, judgement-free environment.

Decadesofevidence highlight the inequities and barriers women and girls in sport and active recreationhave and continue to endure, the effects filtering from grassroots levels through to professional competitions.

Football Victoria chiefexecutive Kimon

Taliadoros said his role is to influence change, not only at FV but throughout the industry.

"Our target of 50/50 gender balanceby2027 depends on the mostseniorsportsadministrators around the country making aconscious mental shift to develop women leaders at all levels in our game -players,coaches,referees and administrators," Taliadoros said.

"I plantoleadthis change as we haveclearly outlined in our strategic plan that women and girls is akey focus area and integrated within all our strategic pillars."

Rather than continuallyfocusing on the injustices, FootballVictoriaistackling the root of the problem, focusing on implementing ways to improvethe status quo, and change the systems and thought processes that have impeded access and opportunity in the first place.

And so GO Soccer Mums was established.

Don't be fooledbythe name; GO Soccer Mums is open to all women from age 15, regardless of skill level, whether you're aground zero beginneror

an ex-Matildas player.

Traralgon Olympians, the GO Soccer Mums Gippsland Cup hosting team, organised sponsors for the inaugural event, who provideddrinkbottles, fresh fruit and veggies, asmoothie blender bike andmedals for first place, second place and third place teams.

With Football Victoria's target of 50/50 gender balance by 2027, FV growth and inclusion executive manager,Karen Pearce, said the sustainable growth of womenand girl's football will be dependent on the entire football family

to embrace, commit, support, acknowledge and strive towards ensuring amore gender-balanced landscape.

Programs like the recently initiated GO Soccer Mums program are astepinthe right direction.

"We must understand and support the differences people bring to football and address each need based on personal,socialand environmental factors that impede participation," Pearce said.

"We must then use this knowledgetoensure traditional and non-traditional methods of engagement are available at all life stages."

Photographs TomHayes

Bird is responsiblefor alot of Rhys’ development, which has proved to work, considering his ability.

“We work on equipmentset-up, technique, alittle bitofmindmanagement -setting up mentally,how to prepare for the pressure,” he said.

“We’ve done some things like competing at other clubsorevents to help expose him to competition.”

The Trans-Tasman Challenge took place in South Australia from April 7to11, but results were finalised after this story went to print.

Tagteam: Moe/Newborough’s Nathan Simpson (left) and Benn Zomer combine in arundown playtoforce an out againstDingleyduring the GippslandChampionships

Photograph AmyForrester

Stance: Rhys takesaim at thetarget