Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 29 March 2023

Farmers to fight SPECIAL VISIT

By PHILIP HOPKINS

THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) willcreateanew VFFEnergyand Transmission Taskforce, which includes Gippsland’s Hamilton Gerrand, to lead itsadvocacy on renewable energyand transmission infrastructure development across Victoria and help give farmers asay.

The new taskforce, which includes Mr Gerrand, who is VFF Gippsland’s branch president, was established by the VFF Policy Counciland will focus on providing aunitedadvocacy approach for farming communities that are battling proposed developments.

The VFF president, Mirboo North’s Emma Germano, saiditwas important that farmerswho are directly affected by thesedevelopments lead the VFF’s advocacyeffortsonthe issues affecting their communities.

“Ironically,this taskforce is about giving power to the people to have their say,”she said

“Farmers need to be the ones at the

centre of this. It’s their livelihoods at riskand it’s theircommunities that are beingtorn apart.

“It’s vital that the VFF’s advocacy is directlyconnected to the communities that are set to be impacted.It’s also important that these communities are connected to one another.”

Apart from Mr Gerrand, the taskforce will be led by the VFF’s Planning, Environment and ClimateChange Committee chair, Gerald Leach, who willwork alongsideVFF Horticulture vice-president,Katherine Myers; and VFF water councillor, Kain Richardson, with further members to be appointed over the coming weeks.

“The work done by farmer advocates to date has been incredible.

“I’m pleased thatwewillhave peoplelikeGerald, Katherine, Kain and Hamilton sharing their local experience with farmers from other parts of the state.

“They are juststarting to learn about the significant impact these developments pose for their

own farm businesses,” Ms Germano said.

Ms Germano said the taskforce’s focus would be on critical issues involvingland access and compensation for farmers, whilst also looking at alternatives to overhead powerlines over farms.

“The Victorian Government’s announcement of $8000 additional per kilometre of easement was truly aslap in the facefor farmers, when we haven’t evenhad the discussionabout what fair compensation looks like,” she said.

“We need to solve thatissue, whilst also looking to alternatives to build transmission towers over farms. Using existing easements and undergrounding powerlines must be explored.”

TheNationals Member for Gippsland South, DannyO’Brien,wants to know why transmission linesfor the Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) are not being placed underground.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr O’Brien called on the Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, to explain why underground transmission lines

are not beingconsidered, not just for the Gippsland REZ but around the state.

“I am very aware of the additional costs and technical difficultiesthat will likely apply to underground versus overhead transmission lines,” he said.

“But the government has recently gone through around of consultation in which thevastmajority of constituents- people faced with prospective overhead transmission lines on their properties –asked the question about undergrounding.

“The Minister needs to come out and explain and give information about the potential costs and benefits of overhead versus underground.”

The state government saysthe new $8000 payments will apply to Integrated System Plan (ISP) and Victorian Renewable EnergyZone (REZ) transmission projects and are in addition to any payments under existing arrangements for transmissioneasements under the LandAcquisition and Compensation Act 1986.

Continued Page 10

Bathurst legendsJim and SteveRichards were in Traralgon on Sundayfor aspecial car collection,organised by RayIkin (thirdfromleft), raisingmoneyfor Cancer Council. Currentprofessional driver Clay Richards (right) also camealong forthe ride. STORY-PAGE12

Twocents: Federal Memberfor Gippsland Darren Chester has called fora broaderenvironmental debate.

Practical environmentalaction

FEDERAL Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, says governments are failing to deal with the real environmental issuesfacing regional Australia.

Speaking in Federal Parliament last week, Mr Chester called for abroader environmental debate which wasn’t focused solely on reducing emissions

“We need abalancedapproachtoensuring we achieve our energysecurity and affordability needs and delivering the environmental outcomes that Australians expect,”MrChester told Parliament

“I acceptthat climatechangeisaglobal challenge and we must play our part as aresponsible nation, but the other environmental challenges, the real environmental challenges we face everyday demand local action.

“What Iamtalking about is practical environmental action in thisnation. The need for more boots and fewer suits –that’s more boots on the ground doing practical environmentalworkand fewer suits in the cities making excuses for why things can’t be done.”

Mr Chester said practical action included a focus on pest animals and weed control, the need to improve biodiversity and tackle erosion and riparian vegetation. “Things like hazard reduction in our forests and critical asset protection around our towns and catchments and important infrastructure,” Mr Chester said.

“What I’m

Gippsland is farmers, landholdersand people

livingintowns who are deeply concerned about the impact of feral animals –feral deer,feral pigs –in their communities.

“These issuesdemand greater attention in this place in partnership with the land owners and the state governments.”

Mr Chester said issues such as foot-and-mouth disease posed risks to the agriculture sector if it were to get loose in Australia.

“Feral pigs would spread this disease through the country and we now have feral pics showing up in northern Victoria in my electorate of Gippsland,” he said.

“It also has to include aserious conversation about aworld-classand sustainablenative timber industryinregions likeVictoria, where the industry is under direct threat right now by Premier Dan Andrews.

“I would argue the true environmentalists in this nation live in regional communities. They’re the people who are out their getting their handsdirty joining Landcare, Coastcare, doing feral animal control and planting trees.

“Unfortunately in Victoriathe workforce for public land management has beenguttedbya government which continues to invest in more suits and fewer boots.”

PSOs to Morwell station

THE Nationals Member for Morwell,Martin Cameron, has called on the Minister for Police and Crime Prevention to urgently allocate Protective ServicesOfficers(PSOs)tothe Morwell train station.

Thestate government’s own website statesthat PSOs are stationed at every one of metropolitan Melbourne’s212 trainstations -but onlyfour stations in regional Victoria have adedicated PSO presence.

“The latest data from the Crime Statistics Agency shows that crime in Latrobe City is disproportionately high withmorethan 10,000 criminalincidents per 100,000 population recorded in 2022 -the highest of any municipality in the state outside of Melbourne,” Mr Cameron said.

Recent datafrom the Crime Statistics Agency shows that while overall crime across the Latrobe Valley is down, the number of criminal incidents reported in Morwell for the year to December 2022 was up 6.5%.

“People continue to raiseconcerns with my office

about the prevalence of anti-social behaviour in Morwell,particularly around the train station and bus terminal on Commercial Road, and the need forintervention is clear,” Mr Cameron said.

“Despite the irrefutable evidence, the Andrews Government doesn’t see the need to station PSOs at the Morwell train station.

“This is just further proof the Latrobe Valley is being short-changed and left behind by agovernment whose concern for communities doesn’t extend past the Pakenham border.

“I acknowledge the wonderful work the Morwell police do in keeping our community safe,but they cannot always attend at the time an incident occurs due to resourcing.

“We have seen the presence of PSOs can serve as an effective deterrent for anti-social and criminal behaviour in other areas,and Iamseeking urgent action from the Minister for Police and Crime Prevention in allocating PSOs to the Morwell train station.”

File photograph

Gambling regulator zones in Latrobe Valley

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

INSPECTORS from the Victorian Gambling and CasinoControl Commission(VGCCC)willvisit the Latrobe region to ensure gaming venues are following the rules and that gambling is safe, fair and has integrity.

As the state’snew gambling regulator, the VGCCC is targeting venues based on risk factors, such as areas where there is projected high growth in player loss and ahistory of not following the rules.

Out of the 13 pokies venues across the Latrobe Valley, localswillspend $106,927 aday on thepokies, which comes to $39,035,646 per year. Latrobe City hasthe 26thhighest pokies expenditure in Victoria, whilerankingfourthinsocio-economic disadvantage.

VGCCC Gambling Director, Glorija Kuzman, said based on data and intelligence, the commission was sending inspectors to places and venues where the risk to the community is highest–– "places we’ve seen asignificant jump in gambling spend over the past few years, where there is ahigh concentrationofpoker machines, or where we know there have been issues in the past”.

“These venuesnot only havelegalobligationsto comply with, they also have asocial licence with their local community, which includes making sure

gambling is safe and fair,” Ms Kuzman added.

Inspectors will specifically check that venues:

 Have aresponsible gambling officer in the gaming room at all times.

 Don’t allow minors into gaming machine areas and don’t allow minors to gamble.

 Have the pre-commitment system YourPlay installed and working on all machines.

 Have compliant CCTV coverage and storage so if issues arise the VGCCC or other law enforcement agencies can access surveillance footage.

 Have and follow aresponsible gambling code of conduct, which includes encouraging players who have been gambling for extended periods to take abreak.

“Where we detect high-harm breaches, we will take swift and strong action –but we are keen to work with industry to provide them with support to get backontrackand follow therules,”Ms Kuzman said.

“If gaming operators deliberately and knowingly break the law, we will have azero tolerance approach. So we’re here to ensure Victoria’s gambling industryoperates with integrity, and is safe and fair –sowewill be watching all gaming venues closely.

“In the meantime, Iencourage the Latrobe

community to let us know if they believe agaming venueisnot doing the rightthing by contacting us.”

The Express reached out to Latrobe Community Health Servicesfor acomment on VGCCC'swork in the Valley.

Michelle Ravesi, manager prevention and partnerships at Latrobe Community Health Service, said in the financialyear2021-22,people in the City of Latrobe lost morethan$39 million.

"The second half of 2022 told asimilarstory, withplayerlosses north of $30million between July 2022 and January 2023," she said.

"On top of financial distress, problem gambling can also causecontribute to familybreakdowns and relationship rifts –alongside other issues like alcohol and drug use, increased stress, and violence against family members or partners.

"Latrobe Community Health Service welcomes any measures that minimise harm. We applaud the VGCCC’s efforts to make sure venues play by the rules, and their staff can recognise customers who are experiencing harm, and help them.”

To make acomplaint abouta gaming operator, go to www.vgccc.vic.gov.au or too seek Gambler's Help phone 1800 858 858 or go to gamblershelp.com.au

Offshore wind decision a“setback”: O’Brien

THE state government’s decision to select the Port of Hastings as the construction port for offshore windfarms is asetback for Gippsland, according to The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien.

Mr O’Brien said the government’s decision to choose amajor port facility outside Gippsland would greatly diminish the potentialbenefitsof the proposed offshore wind industry to the region.

“TheGovernment has nowconfirmed it will establish aVictorian renewable energy terminal at the Port of Hastings, effectively turning its back on Gippsland ports such as BarryBeach, which are closer to most of the proposedoffshore windfarms.

“We need jobs to be created locally to help the energy transition in the LatrobeValleyand Wellington Shire. Using Barry Beach in South Gippslandfor at leastsome of theconstruction, as well as ongoing operations, will help our

region transition and further diversify the South Gippsland economy."

Mr O'Brien saidunlikethe oiland gasindustry, which has aprocessingfacilityand heliport at Longford and thus creates local jobs, offshore wind construction, operation and maintenance would require shipping from aport.

“To be utilisingHastings where effectively a whole new portfacility will needtobebuiltdoesn’t seem to make much sense. Barry Beach has the landand facilities available and while it would alsorequire upgradesand channel dredging, it is abetter option if Gippsland is going to capture the benefits of this industry," he said..

“Indeed,the steaming time from Hastingsto some of the proposed sites off the Gippsland coast is as longasthat to BellBay in Tasmania, so there is no guarantee wind farm developers willeven use Hastings, meaning benefits could be lostto Victoria altogether.”

Mr O’Brien said the latest offshore wind implementation statement from the government also highlightsthatadditional transmission lines will be needed through Gippsland on top of that currently proposed by Ausnet Services.

“I am bemused that the government saysits VicGrid organisationiscoordinating transmission for the offshore wind industry when the reality is thatitisatleast ayear behind the privatesector," he said.

“If we are going to have to put up with overhead transmission lines through Gippsland, then we wanttosee the benefitsofthe offshore windfarms and they will largely bypass us if the government persists in using the Port of Hastings.”

Mr O’Brien said it was also notable that despite being afeature of the Labor Party’s 2022 election campaign, the StateElectricity Commission (SEC) did not get mentioned once in the offshore wind paper.

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Making their waydown: Thestate’s gambling commission will visitthe Latrobe region in coming months

File photograph

Latrobe Valley’schildcare crisis

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

WHEN Kate Taylor decided to return to her job as apreschool teacher after maternity leave, her biggest issue wasn’t finding work, it was finding childcare for her eight-month-old son.

Traralgon, where Ms Taylorlives,has been crying out for childcare workers.

Ms Taylor is one of nine million Australians on average who live in achildcare "desert," where open spots outnumber kids under five by afactor of three or more.

AStudybythe Mitchell Institue, entitled 'Childcare Deserts&Oases: How AccessibleIs Childcare In Australia?'found the Latrobe Valley region is considered achildcare desert with 3.26 children competing for every one childcare place.

In Traralgon alone, between 2.52 and 3.99 children compete for each childcare place, depending on the neighbourhood. Ms Taylor is still looking for accessible childcare for her son.

“Prettymuch since Lincoln wasborn, whenhe was acouple weeks old, Icontactedall the childcare centres to get his name down,” she said.

“We wont get one this year, we’ve been told.

“I contacted one of the centres at the start of the year and was told we were only half way up the list,but we applied in July last year.

“We've contacted LittleSaints, all the Good Start's, threeinTraralgon and the two in Morwell, and Council’s Traralgon EarlyLearningCentre, andtheir wait list was closed.”

For Ms Taylor to get back to work, she has called upon her 70-year-old mother to care for her child.

Ms Taylor is not alone in her struggles.

“My friend who’s anurse andhas twins can’t go back to work in May because it’s the same thing. She can’t get childcare and (with) twins it’s even harder,” she said.

The lackofaccessiblechildcare in theregion impacts family income.

“If Ididn’t have my mum looking after him it’d be probably about $600 aweek we’d lose, and with thecostofliving everything gone up, the mortgage has gone up, food has gone up it’s just not really an option not to go back to work,” Ms Taylor said.

Ms Taylorhas knowledgeinthe field, being a preschool teacher and having worked in childcare.

“I think we need to find away to attractmore educators to the profession and reduce alot of the paperwork,red tapeand rules and regulations, Ithink that’ll attract more people to the field,” she said.

“One of the centres Ispoke to said they didn’t have enough educators. She had physical space but not educators.

“It’s gonna take along time to fix it...I think we need to find away to supportparents to stay at home and look after their kids."

The Mitchell Institute childcare research reveals in Australia the demand for space in early childhood education overtakes local capacity to provide services.

Research shows that childcare desertsare disproportionately locatedinregional areasand where there are higher proportions of families on lower income or below the poverty line, with 54.2 per cent of Latrobe Valley’s population living in a childcare desert.

Speaking exclusively to the Express,Professor Peter Hurely, one of the authors of the Mitchell Institute childcare study, said:

"I think what happens with somewhere like Latrobe Valley its kind of asimilar picturethat you get across the country. Often some towns might have arelatively high level of childcare or places available and then the areas aroundits more difficult to find it. Ithink this happens in regional areas...its abit of pot luck of whether or not you’re going to be able to find childcare,” he said.

"It’s athing that doesn’t happen in the cities because if there’s no childcare in your suburb or

any available to you, you just have to go to the suburb beyond that, but in aregional area if you’re unluckyenough to live in atown that doesn’t have childcare, well then it’s adifferent proposition,we’re talking half an hour, an hour away."

Speaking about job shortages in women dominated fields like the healthcare and early education industries,Professor Hurely said: "if they can't find the care that they needfor their child, then they're not going to be able to work."

New families with younger children are the ones who will struggle to find childcare the most.

"From 0-2 (years-old) is very difficult to find. That’s because there are different requirements and they need to have more staff in the rooms when the children are younger, with different ratio requirements, so it can also be anotherproblem depending on the child's age," he said.

When asked about registering childrenbefore they were even born, Professor Hurley said it was the nature of the system.

“A system of people Isuppose playing agame in away that you don’t have in other parts of the education system," he said.

"What Australia has its known as a'DemandSide Subsidy model' and what that means is that there’s asubsidy based on parental income -a government subsidisesthe demand.Sobycreating demand,providersare meanttocreatesupply. And that differs from something like schools...its adirect funded model; we need to build aschool, so we'llbuild aschool in this location and staff it. I thinkwhat thisshows is we needanew approach, particularly for regional areas. It’s not working."

In awelcomed development, the Latrobe City Council has justannounced a$3.68 million partnership with the state government to deliver more kindergartens and early learning places in the Valley.However, in the proposedimprovements,therewas no specific mention of improving childcare forunder two-year-olds.

The LatrobeCityCouncil is also seeking feedback on what its like to raise afamily in the Latrobe Valley, if you wish to have your say visit the Council’s website at latrobe.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay Building Blocks Partnership -Page23

Issue: Kate Taylor will wait up to twoyearstofind childcarefor her son.

Photograph: Zaida Glibanovic

Crossword Puzzle No.8527

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. Which two words means alist of things you wish to achieve in your lifetime?

2. What is the name of the 1970’s-80’sshow that was filmed aboardthe Pacific Princess cruise ship?

3. The two world tropic lines areCancer and which other?

4. At which racecourse is the Melbourne Cup run?

TWO POINTERS

5. Which Australian state would you be if you wereinthe town of Port Hedland?

6. True or false. Agroup of unicorns is called a‘Blessing’?

7. What is the name of the United Kingdom’snational Anthem?

8. What is the name of the movie in which TomCruise wants to ‘Show Me The Money!’?

THREE POINTERS

9. What 1949 science fiction book by author George Orwell describes adystopian world in the future?

10. Who is the lead singer of the band called ‘The Who’?

11. In which continent is it said that the first humans appeared?

12. What is the squareroot of 225?

FOUR POINTERS

13. What is the name of the river that passes through Baghdad?

14. Gordon Sumner is the birth name of which singer?

FIVE POINTER

15. Name the five original members of the ‘Rat Pack’. One point for each correct answer

HOW DID YOU FARE?

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Apply: Playgroups across Gippsland arebeing encouraged to applyfor aone-offgrant to enrich their play experiences

PLAYGROUPS across Gippsland are being encouraged to apply for aone-off grant to enrich their play experiences following National Playgroup Week, from March 20 to March 26.

Play Matters Australia is anot-for-profit that facilitates play groups, play experiences, and music therapy to more than 15,000 families every week, in every state and territory across the country. This year, the charity turns 50, and to celebrate, it’s offering 50 grants for 50 Years to local playgroups. The grants,worth$500, can be spent on toys, equipment, art and craft, and more at EducationAll.

Play Matters Australia spokesperson, Julia Oreopoulos, saidplay is an essential partofchildhood, withresearch demonstratingits impacton children’s development.

“Play Matters Australia investsinresearch which supports the positive impacts of play, music, and movement on children’s brain development,” Ms Oreopoulos said.

“Learning through play is different to being taught.

“Play can shape cognitive, emotional, and social development. It helps children fine-tune their motor skills, problem-solving and hand-eye coordination, develop their language and social

Photograph: Contributed

skills, and enhance their physical and emotional wellbeing.”

Ms Oreopoulos said playgroupsare an ideal setting for children to engage in play.

“Importantly, playgroups also focus on the parent/childrelationship, to help ensure caregivers are giventhe skills and confidencethey need to parent effectively,” she said.

Play Matters affiliates and supports more than 500 playgroups, 70 per cent of which are located in regional and remote Australia.

“Playgroups are run from parks,churches, libraries, schools, community hubs, kindergartens, corporate offices and online. They have avaluable role in connecting children, parents, and communities through play,” Ms Oreopoulos said.

“Many playgroups are volunteer-led,and we know agrant of up to $500 can go along way in helping facilitators provide new toys and resources to families that attend groups.”

To apply for agrant,head to the Play Matters Australia website: https://playmatters.org.au/

Applications close Monday, April 24, 2023.

MoreonNational PlaygroupWeek-Page 16.

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National report offers blueprint for sustaining regional newspapers

ANATIONAL report intolocal news sustainability is challenging the perception that print newspapers are dead and is calling on governments to revise their advertising rules to help local news providers and better target regional and rural communities.

These are two recommendations of 22 in the new report, Media Innovation and the Civic Future of Australia’s CountryPress, the culmination of a three-year Australian Research Council project, led by DeakinUniversity, in partnership with Country Press Australia, the nation’s peak local news lobby, and RMIT University.

Project lead, Professor Kristy Hess, of Deakin’s SchoolofCommunications and Creative Arts,said the project’s aim was to examine the local media landscape to identify challenges and opportunities for sustainability and innovation.

“We wanted to examine the challengesfacing small-town news providers given the commentary in recent years about the crisis they are facing in Australia and across the world,” she said.

This was the first comprehensive report of its kind in Australia andits recommendations provide a blueprint to preserve and expand rural and regional news for future generations.

The study began at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,which resulted in the temporary or permanent closure of dozensoflocalmastheads across Australia and ashift among some to digitalonly platforms.

“The first thing we did wasconduct amajor national survey to find out what people valued about their local mastheads. We found people in many regional and rural towns and cities were passionateabout theirlocal mastheads, but rejected an overreliance on syndicated content, in print and digital, sourced from neighbouring areas or other parts of the country,” Professor Hess said.

Theresearchteam conducted two main national surveys-one with local news audiences and one with those who do not engage with local news; 35 interviews with Australiannews editors and proprietors; andseven interpretive focus groups with editors, journalists and advertising managers within the Country Press Australia network.

One key finding was the strain on localmastheads hit with lost revenue from local, state and federal government advertising, which in recent yearshad prioritised social media and metropolitan news outlets with alarger digital reach.

Shing condemns LGBTIQ+ hate

COMMENT

By HARRIET SHING

TODAY, like every day, Iamgrateful forthe resilience,kindness and courage of our LGBTIQ+ communities.

Iamsoproud to be amember of our LGBTIQ+ communities-communities that include trans people. Iamespecially proud of how welcoming and kind we are in regional Victoria. In regional Victoria, we overwhelmingly acceptdiversity in allits forms.

It is so important that we can continue to tellour stories and share ourexperiences and build connection in the face of escalating stigma, discrimination, and hate.

We are strong -but we shouldn’t have to be this strong.

Over the weekend (March 18), we saw adisgraceful display of hate in Melbourne’s CBD.

The intention of the rally was to belittle, exclude, humiliate and discriminateagainst our transgender Victorians.

There is no such thing as acivil debate when we are talking about whether one group of people should be allowed to havethe samerights as others to live safely and without discrimination against them.

It is not acivil debate when the rights of trans people to play sport, to use public toilets, to have equalaccess to education and employment opportunities -tolivetheir lives with dignity and the opportunity to be exactly who they are, however they may identify, is called into question.

And yet -again and again -wesee these campaigns against an already vulnerable group.

Moira Deeming’s abhorrent views were widely known and publicised well before her Liberal preselection and election to the Victorian Parliament.

It is increasinglyhard to know what Mr Pesutto (state Liberal leader) stands for.

On one handheclaims to supportLGBTIQ+ people and azero-tolerance approach to

No way: Member forEasternVictoria and Minister forEqualityHarriet Shing has condemned recent action in Melbourne against transgender people. File photograph

discrimination. He sayshewants to bring the Liberal Party “back into the mainstream” while he turns ablind eyetothe enormous hurt and distress caused by Ms Deeming for months.

Ms Deeming has rallied with anti-trans campaigners at an event attended by neo-nazis. That she remains in the Liberal Party room -atleast for now -isamatter for them.

But it is certainly not representative of the best of Victorians.

To be clear, the Andrews government will never take abackwardsstepwhere it comes to respecting, supporting and protecting Victoria’s LGBTIQ+communities.

The rights and equality of trans people, and all members of the LGBTIQ+communities in Victoria are not negotiable.

Harriet Shing is the Member for Eastern Victoria and Minister for Equality.

“Our research found there is this obsession with digitalreach. That’s all well and good, but alocal masthead, whether in print or online, isn’t designed to reach 1million people. If we use the digital reach metric as an indicator as to which news outlets should get government advertising, these independent regional and rural outlets are going to lose out every time,” Professor Hess said.

The report supports arecent parliamentary inquiry recommendation that stipulates 20 per cent of all federal government advertising expenditure be directed to regional and ruralnews organisations.

Data from the study also showed government funding schemes for local news outlets were often tied to digital innovation, for instance to buy drones andother technologies, whenwhat local news providers needed was financial supportto upgrade print infrastructure or to hire more staff.

“Printisnot deadfor many regionaland rural communities. We need to remember there is a digitaldivide in Australia that means some communities still struggle with poor-quality and unreliable internet connections. Some segments of the community, including older citizens, find it

difficult to use newer technologies. Younger audiencesalso like the look of aprinted newspaper,” Professor Hess said.

The reportalsorecommends better incentives, including pay, to attract seasoned reporters to the regions. Governments are also urged to provide seed funding for journalist-lednews start-ups to counteract local ‘news deserts’ developing in some parts of Australia.

“Our research shows people in these communities want more local news content, includingstories on locals’ achievements, successes andmilestones Theyalsowant news on local events and more investigative-type pieces,” Professor Hess said.

“We also foundthere is more capacity for regional and rural news providers to develop collaborative advocacy and solutions-style reporting campaigns that address important rural and regional issues that span multiple communities.”

The report was launched at anational event in Melbourne on March 23. The report can be found at localnewsinnovation.org

Nominations open for awards

NOMINATIONS have opened for the 21st Victorian Hall of Fame Manufacturing Awards.

The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, said Gippsland had longbeen recognised as amanufacturing hub of excellence producing products for local, national, and international markets.

“The capabilities and innovationofour manufacturing businesses whether it be in food and fibre, or newtechnologies and engineering, is quite remarkable," she said..

“Eastern Victorian businesses and individuals have led the way over many decades, and it would be afitting acknowledgement for current innovators to nominate and potentially win an award.

“After 21 years, the awards category of Regional Manufacturer of the Year has finally been introduced, and Ican think of many local businesses deserving of this recognition.

“I encourage all local manufacturing businesses to look at the individual and company categories and consider applying for these awards.

“It’s important to celebrateand recognise the successes and hard workofour manufacturing sector.”

There are 15 categories for which nominations can be made. Awards are presented to both individuals and companies working in manufacturing.

Ms Bath said The Nationals had always backed the manufacturing sector and thehighly skilled jobs that underpinit. “The Andrews Labor Government mustdomore to supporthome grownmanufacturing, support local jobs and develop technologies at home," she said.

“Manufacturing is critical for our economicgrowth and prosperity -itprovides sustainable long-term careers in our regional communities.

“Our regional manufacturers are world class, and The Nationals wanttosee agreater investment in these businesses to build jobs and further develop local expertise.”

Nominations for Victoria’s Manufacturing Awardscloseon31March2023and winner are to be announced at the gala dinner heldduring winter at adate to be announced.

All nominations and eligibility criteria for each award category can be found online at www.eaward.com.au/2023/vmhfa/newentry/about.php

Team effort: Piles of Latrobe ValleyExpress’ready to be delivered. File photograph

Fasting begins as Ramadan gets underway

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

RAMADAN Mubarak to the Muslims across the Latrobe Valley as the holy month of Ramadan began last week.

Every year, Muslims acrossthe world anticipate thesighting of the new crescent moon which signifiesthe offical first day of Ramadan, the ninthand most holy month of the calendar.

Muslimsuse theIslamic calendar (also known as theLunar or Hijri calendar) to determine the dates of religious events and observances. The Islamic calendar is based on 12 lunar months (a new month begins when anew moon is sighted)

During Ramadan for 30 days, Muslimswill fast during the day and will aim to connect more spiritually to themselves and to the religion. The act of fasting is one of the Five Pillars (fundamental religious duties) of Islam.

Muslimswill fast with no food or water throughout the day. Commonly,Muslims will eat apre-fast meal (suhoor) before sunrise and then break their fast in the evening after the sunset (iftar).For thechronicallyill, the elderly or for those who suffer from health conditions, they are exempt

from fasting.

For those fasting, it is against the rules to have sexual relations or to smoke during the day as well.

In addition to fasting, extra attention is also given to more acts of worship.These acts can come in the form of prayer, reciting Qur’an, giving charity, and asking for forgiveness.

Jo Nim, the son of the Imam at the The Light of the Hidayah mosque in Morwell said that they had over 150 people attend the first Friday prayers of the month.

He went on to say that peoplethink Ramadan is just about the starvation when in reality, you have to change and give up all the bad behaviours in order to become abetter Muslim.

Ramadan is amonth that symbolises dedication, reflection and discipline. Fasting Muslims will also avoid obscene speech or swearing and should not behave angrily or ignorantly during this time.

The holy month is also a time where family gets together.Families will wake up together before the crackofdawn, to go through the same spiritual fasting journey and then break fast all together in the evening, giving much needed time to connect and bond.

The word “Ramadan” is derived from an Arabic word for intense heat, scorched ground and shortness of food and drink. It is believed that Ramadan is the month where the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

To many, Ramadan is more than the fast, it’s a

ritual and aspirtualjourney where you can prove to Allah your devotionand you can provetoyourself that you can do it.

Muslims make up about 0.8 per cent of the Latrobe Valley's demographic which is about 581 people.

Astepinthe right directionfor outofhomecare

AREQUESTmade by The NationalsMember for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath in state parliament has resulted in the Minister for Child Protection and FamilyServices, LizzieBlandthorn agreeing to meet with ABetter Life for Foster Kids founder Heather Baird.

In addressing the parliament on children living out of home care, Ms Bath highlighted identified gaps in mental health services as outlined by Ms Baird.

“Ms Baird has been lobbying for the implementation of comprehensive treatment plans to cover a child’s mental wellbeing when they enter out of home care for some time," Ms Bath said.

“With arevolving door of five Andrews GovernmentChildProtection and Family Services Ministers over the past 18 months, being heard and getting action has been abattle.

“When experienced advocates like Heather Baird are sayingVictoria’s out of home care system is inadequate and it’s failing to supportthe children,

theAndrews Government has aresponsibility to listen.”

Research led by the Murdoch Children'sResearch Institute found only one in 130 children had attended all recommended health services within 12 months of entering out of home care.

MurdochChildren's ProfessorSharonGoldfeld said, “These children have more physical, developmental and mental healthneeds given their experiences of abuse, neglect and/or trauma and increased likelihood of living in adverse socioeconomic circumstances".

Ms Bath said it’s shocking that these children are not getting the services they need -whenthey need them.

“The glaring gaps in the provision of mental health support at theentry pointofinVictoria must be addressed," Ms Bath said.

“Heather Baird has sensibly been calling for the introduction of ayouth-specific mentalhealth triage within the first six weeks of acare arrangement.”

In Minister Blandthorn’s responsetoMsBath received this week, she wrote, “I would be pleased to meet with Ms Baird whenmyschedule permits.”

Ms Bath said given the criticality of supporting our most vulnerable citizens, she expected Minister Blandthorn will make this meeting apriority.

“Children entering out-of-home care do so in a

highlytraumatised state -their emotional and psychological wellbeing mustbesupported,"Ms Bath said.

“I've been working with Heather Baird for many yearsand I’ll continue to advocate for Victoria's most vulnerable children and the dedicated people who nurture and care for them.”

By PHILIP HOPKINS

From Page 1

THE new payments, whichwill first go to landholdersinwestern Victoria, will also apply to the Victoria-Tasmaniainterconnector (MarinusLink) project and transmission links being developed by VicGrid to connect Victorian Renewable Energy Zonesand future offshore wind projects.

In Gippsland’s REZ, anew 500kV transmission line and terminal station are planned to connect generators at the coast back to the existing network in the Latrobe Valley, either at Hazelwood or Loy Yang. Theywillconnectupto5000MWofnew offshore wind generation in Gippsland.

Thelinkisexpected to provide up to 2100 megawatts of network capacity for future renewable energy generation projects.

Marinus Link is aproposed 1500 MW undersea andunderground electricity connection to further link Tasmania and Victoria. It will provide access to 1500 MW of capacity from Tasmania, including pumped hydro storage to providebase-load electricity when needed.

Target Time No.0150

acid, acrid, aegis, aide, aider,aired, arid, arise, asdic, ashier,aside, cadi, cagier, cahier,cashier,caries, cedi, ceria, chair chaise, chid, chide, chider,cider,cigar, cire, cried, dice, dicer,dire, dirge, disc, DISCHARGE, disgrace, dish, dishrag, egis, garish, geisha, gird, grid, hair, haired, heir,hide, hied, hider,hire, hired, iced, idea, rachis, radish, ragi, raid, raise, raised, rice, riced, rich, ride, ridge, risc, rise, said, sari, shadier,shied, shier,shire, side, sidecar,sigh, sighed, sigher,sire, sired.

Target: Average-40, Good -50, Excellent -64+

Action: Victorian FarmersFederation president Emma Germano is backing the VFF’snew taskforce Photograph: File

The Good Friday Appeal is a charity that raises money to enable The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne to provide world class care for our children The Appeal brings all sectors of the community together to raise funds every year culminating in a telethon on Good Friday

The strength of the Good Friday Appeal lies with the thousands of people who volunteer their expertise, time and talent to organise fundraising activities throughout the year

Since 1931, over $421 million has been raised to deliver the best possible care to patients and their families at The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne Your donations support projects in the following areas:

• ground-breaking research

• state-of-the-art equipment and technology

• patient and family centred care programs

• fostering staff excellence through education programs, scholarships and fellowships to attract and retain the brightest minds

This incredible contribution demonstrates the power of the community coming together to support a wonderful cause

Support Good Friday Appeal

People get involved in the Good Friday Appeal in numerous ways, through events and collection groups in regional towns and metropolitan Melbourne as well as our official fundraisers who come up with creative ideas to bring together their family, friends and colleagues

It is thanks to the support of the community that the Appeal continues to grow while maintaining and respecting its long and proud 92 year history

The Good Friday Appeal is supported by a small team who works closely with our generous partners, supporters, collection groups and fundraisers by providing tools, resources and advice to support our fundraisers.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, makes an enormous difference to helping The Royal Children’s Hospital to be a great hospital, providing world class care and continuing their work in leading the way as one of the world’s leading children’s hospitals, helping kids live healthy lives and realise their full potential

Bathurst royalty support fundraiser

By TOMHAYES

THE sightofclassic cars filled McMahon St in Traralgon at the weekend, thanks to aCancer Council fundraiser, headlined by racing royalty. Ray Ikin opened the doors to his beloved car collection, which comprises 22 cars; all of different eras,makes and models.

Mr Ikin beganhis collection around35yearsago. His ties to ex-Supercar driver and Bathurst legend, Jim Richards, got the show on the road as Jim, his sonand alsoex-Supercar driver,Steve Richards attended, alongside Steve’s son Clay, to complete the tri-generational headline. Having suffered the extremes of cancer himself, Mr Ikinwantedtodoasmuch as he could for those who can’t for themselves.

“We all know someone who is affected by cancer in one way or another, and I’m one of them,” Mr Ikin said.

“I wanted to do something that would help somebody. I’m sure the funds that we raise doing this will help somebody.

“You can’t help but feel glad about it."

Hundreds of people flocked through the doors to see Mr Ikin’s car collection, chat to racing royalty and be apartofthe raffle and auction on site.

“(The crowd)seem to be very happyabout the day, I’ve received many congratulations. One girl wanted to give me abig hug, so that was abuzz.”

Jim is famous for winning at Bathurst astaggering seven times, just two short of the late King of the Mountain, Peter Brock -who wonatthe venue nine times.

Jim and Brockwon the infamous racetogether as co-drivers on three occasions, going back-to-backto-back from 1978 to 1980.

Jim, who has done similar events in the past was impressed by the crowd on display.

“I thinkwe’ve done this about three or fourtimes and this is by far the best crowd we’ve had, it’s terrific,” Jim said.

Steve is also no stranger to ‘The Mountain’, winningBathurstfive times throughout his career

His first win at Bathurst was with Gippsland export, Jason Bright, who grew up in Moe.

Steve enjoyed an extensive racing career, spanning over 24 years, his last Bathurst win arrived 20 years after his first, in 2018, alongside the great Craig Lowndes.

Steveholds more ties to the local area, as his wife is from Traralgon, and he believed the turn out to the fundraiser passed expectations.

“It’s been fantastic. We did one backin2019and we had great support, but todaywas massive,” Steve said.

“Supercars now are in the general sporting landscape, and they have been for along time, in Australia we all love our cars.”

Steve’s son, Clay, also joined in on festivities on the day, talking to motor-heads and was there to sign posters too.

Clay is currently at the beginning of his racing career, racing in the Toyota 86 series.

“Today was fantastic, so manymore people came out than Ithought, and we’ve raised alot for the Cancer Council as well,” Clay said.

Well into his retirement now, Mr Ikin leaves plenty of time to play around with his collection.

“I come over here every day, it’s my superannuation Isuppose, Ijust love it,” he said.

“People go boat racing and fishing or they play golf and all sorts of things, but Ijust love playing with my cars.”

Throughout the day the fundraiser collected around $6000 for the Cancel Council, thanks to nearly 400 people that attended the event.

Australia’sfirst Maltese Museum hosts school event

By TOMHAYES

THE Malteseculture is wide-spread throughout the Latrobe Valley and that is no different in Morwell, where the first MalteseMuseum in Australia currently is.

In 1883, the first organised migrant group of Maltese workersarrived in Australia, manyof whom worked in Queensland. Since then, the Maltese have continued to flock to Australia in their numbers, especially around the mid-1900s.

In Morwell sits Australia’s first Maltese Museum, which contains many Maltese artefacts from its rich history,fromclothing to utensils to models of buildings.

Last Saturday, the Maltese Language School from Caroline Springs came to visit the Museum, and around 50 children attended the event.

President of the Maltese Community Centre, Mario Sammut believes it is agreat opportunity for anyone, especially local Maltese people to get asense of their history.

“People come and visitthe Museum, its open every Sunday,” Mr Sammut said.

“During the week,wehave peoplecome for lunch and visit the Museum.

“Very soon we’ll start on the extension and the back, because we’re running out of space!”

The brains of the operation was the youngest member of the Maltese Community Centre, Ali Shlaibeq, who caught the attention of the Maltese Language School in Caroline Springs

“They’re veryhappytohave me on board, as someone younger, so I’d like to encourage more youngMaltese people, particularlyinthe Valley to come and see what we have and to be involved if that’s what they’d like to do,” Mr Shlaibeq said.

was much different.

“We put it on our Facebook page and that got some traction,” Mr Shlaibeq said.

“It might be something that they, in the future would want to be involved with. At least they will come here and understand something of their heritage that they didn’t know before.”

As the childrenfilled the hall, they were treated to classic Maltese cuisine -Pastizzi-a classic pastry, filled with either ricotta or curried peas. While they ate their food, they were able to watch abrief video about Malta, provided by thecommittee, before they were able to see the contents of the Museum.

Tanya Attardfrom the Maltese Language School in Caroline Springs believes it was agreat learning experience.

“I just thought it would be the perfect opportunity for them to come and see things that may represent where they come from and their roots, and have a bit of practical application,” Ms Attard said.

“When you’re talking to people and they ask

where you are from and you say ‘Malta’, they go ‘that’saplace I’d really lovetogoto’,Ithink this would be agreat firststop, to get abit of an understanding.

“The internetcan explain so many things, but seeingitinperson or speaking to people who lived there, it just adds another layer to help develop that connection.”

Packed: TheMaltese Museum is stackedwith tory mHayes

Proud: Maltese Community Centre President, Mario Sammut, poses withinthe Museum.

Engaged: Thestudents of the Maltese Language SchoollistentoMario Sammut, as he introduces the event.

Winner: SteveRichards drawing the raffle at the end of the event.

Photograph:Tom Hayes

Nowstaging: Worksdetailing connection to Countryare currentlyondisplayatLatrobe Regional Gallery.

Major exhibition on display

LATROBE Regional Gallery is currently staging amajor exhibition, WILAMBIIK,focused on the Home Country of First Nations artists from South-East Australia.

WilamBiikmeans “Home Country”inthe Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people. The exhibition will invite visitors to appreciate how First Nations people see, listen and connect to Country.

It features new work from contemporary artists Paola Balla (Wemba Wemba, Gundjitmara), Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung), Kent Morris (Barkindji),Glenda Nicholls (Ngarrindjeri and Yorta Yorta),Steven Rhall (Taungurung), Nannette Shaw(Tyereelore, Trawoolway, Bunurong), Kim Wandin (Wurundjeri), Lewis Wandin-Bursill (Wurundjeri/Woi-wurrung), Arika Waulu (Gunditjmara, Djapwurrung, Gunnai), and the Djirri Djirri Wurundjeri Women’s Dance Group (Wurundjeri,Dja DjaWurrung, Ngurai Illum Wurrung -pictured).

Its curator is Wurundjeri,Dja DjaWurrung and Ngurai Illum Wurrung woman Stacie Piper, who saysthe exhibition is about exploringthe true spirit of ourselves,which is foundwithin the spirit of Country.

“Our Wilam Biik is the soil, the land, the water,

theair,the sky, and the animals residing within," Ms Piper said

"The only home we know, which we honour for its sacred exchange.

"A home where custodial rights and responsibilitiesnever left. May this place you call home become adeeper part of you.

“Experiencing Country through aFirst Nations lens provides aperspective which can inspire, give insightand knowledge, and affirm and re-establish afundamental connection with nature.

"This is critical to the wellbeing of people,nature and the planet.

“My hope is thateach person walksaway inspired,inawe of the beauty of Country, and empowered with apersonalsenseofconnection and responsibility.”

Latrobe RegionalGallery curator David O’Halloransaidthe venue wasdelighted to present

WILAM BIIK at Latrobe Regional Gallery.

"This remarkable exhibitionbrings aunique perspective to the Morwell community,” he said.

WILAM BIIK will be shown at the Latrobe Regional Gallery, Morwell until June 3. Formoreinformation, visitwww.latroberegionalgallery.com

The Range Retirement Village is aretirement living community in Moe, boasting alive-in Manager and high-quality residential villas set inside agated community.

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

Photograph: Supplied

YOUR FLOORS

Working With Children’s Check nowdigital

THE stategovernment has made securingand using the Working with Children Check more accessible, with Victorians now able to apply for and display adigital version of the card on the Service Victoria app.

More than 2000 Victorians have already taken advantage of the digitisation of the Working with Children Check card since it was introducedinlateFebruary,meaning they will no longer need to carry aphysical card.

It also means people can easily and securely apply for, update, and renew their clearance through the app -with an application process as robust as ever.

The check is avital tool for assessing people who work with or care for children in Victoria -ensuringthe safety and wellbeingofchildren across the state.

More than 1.7 million Victorians have acurrent Working with Children Check, with over 10,000 organisations across the state working directly withchildren,including educational institutions, sporting clubs, paediatric health providers and child protection services.

Minister for GovernmentServices Danny Pearson welcomed the news.

“The option of displaying adigital Working with Children Check will benefit Victorians from allwalksoflife, makingiteasier for them to prove their credentials usingthe Service Victoria app,” he said.

“We’re putting peoplefirst by digitising services -the digital wallet is akey part of our work to streamline key transactions and make them more accessible for Victorians.”

Organisations can scan the QR code on the digital card on the Service Victoriaapp to see if the check is valid,showing the person’sstatus in real time, although clearance holders can continue to use theirphysical card if preferred.

The digital card builds on more than 90 government services available through the Service Victoria website and mobile app -making it aone-stop-shop for Victorianstoaccess the services they need.

The Working with Children Check card joins the digital fishinglicence and ambulance membership available in the Service Victoria app, with more cards to be added.

More than one billion transactions have been completedthrough Service Victoria, including car registration payments, ambulance subscriptions, vouchers, and cashbacks to reduce the cost of living

If you are acurrent clearance-holder and wish to obtainadigital Working with Children Checkcard, go to service.vic.gov.au or download the app at the App Store or Google Play Store. The Check’s Customer Support Line is open 9am to 3pm weekdays.

St Joseph’s put athletics on display

RECENTLY, students at St Joseph’sCatholic Primary School, Trafalgar participated in their school’s athletics carnival at Joe Carmody Track in Newborough.

The studentsweredividedinto fourhouse colours and represented their team as they participated in anumber of athletic events.

Theday started with awholeschoolwarm up to musicled by Mia Scalonfrom ‘You and Me’ Fitness Group in Trafalgar.

Then the students participated in running events includinghurdles,sprintsand a200-metre running race.

After this, students rotated around field events including high jump, discus, and ball games.

Staff member Taryn Maxwell-Garratt organised the day for the school community. Afabulous day was had by all.

Winnersare grinners: Grade 6studentsAiden Cathomen,Zander Murto,Bryce Varley,Fenn and Ryleigh Yeomans displaytheir ribbonsfromthe St Joseph’s PrimarySchool, Trafalgar Athletics Carnival.

Photographs: Supplied

Howit’sdone: AudanCathomen demonstrating his discusstyle

I’m Blue: Supportingthe Blue team are Olivia Pedemont, teacher Will Troy and Tahlia Pedemont

Community: Students picturedenjoying theday with teacher Cathleen Ryan in the middle

Cheer: StaffJessica Cross and Emma Poore supporting the students

Duo: ParentsBec Harveyand Kara Pedemont supporting the students

Big smiles: Loving theday is Grade1student Jorunn Vandyke.

Green machine: Samuel and Lola Carpinteri, Shreyan Thummala andPaytonBowles displaytheir team spirt.

ChurchillNorthrocksRide2SchoolDay

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

EARLY birds. Churchill North Primary School celebrated National Ride2School Day last Thursday, with ahugefun family event. Most of the students rode their bikes, scooters or roller blades into school to honournational Ride2School day.

Ride2School day is Australia’s biggest celebration

of active travel, and one of Churchill North Primary’s favourite days on the school calendar.

As such, Churchill North Primary School went above and beyond for Ride2School day, seizing the opportunity to create an event called ‘Bikes, Books &BBQ’, where students rode to school to commemorate Ride2School Day, and after-school families enjoyed afree barbecue (provided by the Churchill Lions Club) and spent time engaging with children on their wheels or in the classroom. Staff organised ahugebiketrack that stretched the entire length of the school. Students flew past on their wheelsand helped themselves to aChurchill Lions Club cooked sausage. Parents were invited into classrooms to chat with teachers and see what students have been learning in Term 1.

Grade 1/2 teacher Linda Macgregor welcomed parents back in the classroom.

“What we’re trying do is encourage our families to come in our doors and invite them to see what learning goes on in the classroom especially since post-COVID everyone has been kept away from the school, so opening up the classroom they can come in and see what the kids have been doing,” she said.

“It’s been really reallynice to see parents and have them interact withwhat’s happening and just putting faces to names and phone calls, so its actually nice to say ‘hi’ in real life.

“Having [parents] here means they can see that we actually care about their kids and want the best for them.”

Ms Macgregor said she was pleased the greater school community joined in on the event

“We contacted [the Churchill Lions Club] acouple weeks ago and said we’re about to have this open night and they saidthey’dlovetocome and support our worthwhile cause, and they’re such great cooks with great smiles.”

Churchill North Primary School makes abig effort for the annual national Ride2School Day, and this year was no exception.

“What we’re trying to do is bring more than just parents in, we’re trying to say‘heywe’reonthe map we actually exist’, we’re asmall school, we love our familiesand our kids and welcoming other people in to say ‘this is us’,” Ms Macgregor added.

Students at Churchill North Primary School would havewent home to bed, well-fedbut exhausted with all the fun that occurred.

More than 350,000students across Australia ride, walk, scoot or skate their waytoschool every Ride2School day.

It’s aday full of fun and colour where students, teachersand parents discover the joyofriding and start healthy habits for the future.

Smile: TheLear Familyenjoying the festivities at the Bikes,Books &BBQ event.

Learning: TeacherLindaMacgregorshows parents howstudentsworkinthe classroom.

National Playgroup Week celebrated by all in Traralgon

By TOMHAYES

TRARALGONPlaygroupcelebrated National Playgroup Week last week, organising some fun activities for the kids on Wednesday, March 22.

The playgroup organised aworkshop from Bunnings to come to the kids, as they decorated their own pot plants, and had them filled with plants and soil.

Traralgon restaurant Food Co, On Franklin donated food for morning tea, which was enjoyed by staff, parents and of course, the children.

The playgroup hosts 20 to 40 families, during three separate timesessions per day (at 9am, 11.15am and 1.30pm), five days aweek, Monday to Friday, for arange of ages from newborns up to five-year-olds.

Presidentofthe Traralgon Playgroup,Esther Greco, highlightedthe importance of playgroup for young children, before they begin to attend kindergarten or primary school.

“It’sagoodthing before kinder, for kids to get used to playing with other kids before preschool, and we’vegot avarietyofdifferent ages,” Ms Greco said.

Traralgon Playgroup secretary Erin Di Corleto believes the areas provides kids with anurturing spaceand givesparents the ability to meet likeminded parents.

“It’s just anice, kid-friendly space, for people to meet and have social connections,” Ms Di Corleto said.

“It’s agood place,particularlyfor new people moving to the area, it’s away for them to connect and learn about the local activities and programs.”

“We’ve found, especially with alot of new mums, mothers groups are coming to join because it’s a great place to have,” Ms Greco said.

The playgroup hostsa range of activities to cover the whole year, which allow kids to become comfortable with different surroundings and new people.

“Becauseitisaparent-run organisation, we really leftituptothe parents.Todaywewereorganising painting pots with Bunnings,” Ms Greco said.

“Other activities we’ve had during the year are alot of colouring, painting.

“I think the parents like that thekids can justbe independent and play as they want.”

“They can do alot of free play, we’ve got an ingroundtrampoline, the slides, the swings, the sand pit, chalkboards. Inside is full of cars and trucks, alittle kitchen, some costumes,lotsofarts and crafts,” Ms Di Corleto said.

Playgroup is seen as atremendously beneficial start to life, as it teaches young kids the basics of growing up.

“(Kids learn) social skills which is very important right now as they all sit next to each other, they learn to share,” Ms Greco said as the kids painted.

“Motor skills like climbing and playing, we’ve got all the toys, so often kids will come here and learn how to use ascooter for the firsttime…there’s reading as well,” Ms Di Corleto said.

“It’s just anice safe space for kids to playoutside, or inside if the weather is not great.”

Traralgon Playgroup is always looking for new participants, with late morning and afternoon sessions currently available.

Families can find out more informationbygoing to Traralgon Playgroup directly at 9A Whittakers Road, Traralgon.

Colour: Plentyofcolours were on displayas theykids got stuckintothe painting.

Mates: Dominic Coad and Luca Cecchin from Traralgon put some effort intotheir pots.

Parents can also find out more information about the playgroup on their Facebook page: Traralgon Playgroup, where messages can be sent directly. Another point of contact is via email, which parents can send through to traralgonplaygroup@ y7mail.com

Wheeliefun: Churchill North PrimarySchool students riding thebiketrack

Photographs: ZaidaGlibanovic

Fun: Smiles were on thefaces of kids as they finishedtheir pot plants

Photographs: TomHayes

Community: Churchill LionsClub cooking up a stormfor Churchill North PrimarySchool.

Shavingfor acause

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

BUZZ cuts are all the rage at Trafalgar High, as the school once again participated in the World’s Greatest Shave.

LastThursday,eightstudents from Trafalgar High School took the plunge and shaved their hair off, fundraising for the Leukaemia Foundation.

Taking partfrom across all year levels were: Eli Smith and Daniel Riddel from Year 8, Patrick Davies and Eloise Grendon (Year 9), Oliver Grendon and Nicholas Wott (Year 11), and Year 12'sNoah Smith andschool captain GriffinStewart also committed to the cut.

In an amazing effort, the eight students managed to raise about $3500 for the cause. All money will go towards the World’s Greatest Shave, which supports treatment and finding acurefor blood cancer.

The wholeschool watched on in laughterand applause as the locks began to fall.

Eli Smith raised $530 on his own for the blood cancer foundation, having had afamily member pass away from cancer.

“It’s areally good cause and I’ve kind of always wanted to do it. Plus my long hair was getting annoying and Iwould rather get afree haircut,” she said.

Oliver Grendon faced the shaver saying: “It’s only hair, it grows back and it’s for agood cause”. Little sister, Eloise Grendon followed in her brother’s bravery, choosing to cut her hair too.

Principal Brett Pedlow was sure the fanfare of the World’s Greatest Shave will continue at the school.

“These initiatives are student-driven and whenever anything is student-driven it generally gets more buy-in from the whole school community. The uniqueness of Trafalgar High School is thatour students come from far and wide. So when we hold events likethis, there is such great buy-in from this unique school community," he said.

"This charity has touched ahellofalot of people as well, and when it’s driven by students, it’s for students, it’s for agreat cause, and our kids step up which is fabulous.”

“We’ve made apriority to bring the fun back to school …off the back of afew years of remote learning and COVID, our schools have changed and we really need to build school pride so with events like thesewedoprioritise it."

As for the bald, yet brave students who participated in the shave, perhaps beanieswillbeinorder as the weather starts to cool down.

The Leukaemia Foundation has praised the

Fed Uni graduation

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

CONGRATULATIONS are in order as more than 250 Federation University Gippsland students were awarded their degrees after years of hard work and late nights.

Family and friends watched on with pride at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, as each student was recognised for their academic accomplishments on stage during the most recent graduation ceremony on Tuesday, March 21.

Federation University deputy vice-chancellor Professor Wendy Cross, spoke highly of this year's graduates.

“I think this year what we’re seeing is a number of students who have come today to celebrate their achievements and it’s an incredibleachievement when you thinkthat theirfirst year of theirdegree and theirsecond year of their degree would’ve been done mostly online and so they had to adapt to that. Many of them also juggle family commitments, working whilst their studying all those sorts of things, Ithink that getting through it and seeingthat they can achieve under what we would’ve considered some time ago under insurmountable circumstances,” she said.

of one sort or another and it’salways good to see that these professions are being filled by our graduates in this region," she said.

Federation University vice-chancellor and president, Professor Duncan Bentley congratulatedthe graduating class: “We look forward to seeing all that our students will achieve in their communities as we know they are graduating withthe skills and knowledge employersneed."

Alisha Gillilandwho completed her Master of Business Administration, was the graduate speaker.

Speaking to The Express, Ms Gilliland stated why she chose to study in Gippsland: “I had an opportunity through ascholarship to attend Fed Uni which was an amazing opportunity. And also being local, living and working in this area, in Gippsland my whole life.”

Originallyfrom TraralgonSouth, Ms Gilliland went to Traralgon High,now known as Traralgon College.

Ms Gilliland's mastersthesis wasresearch into the importanceofdiversity in Gippsland business boards, and in the futureshe hopes to continue to work for the local community.

Courageous cut: EloiseGrendon from Year 9 cuts offher locks foragood cause

brave and remarkable Australians who will stand in solidarity with more than 135,000 people living with blood cancer, by participating in the 25th anniversary of the much-loved and iconic World’s Greatest Shave.

So far in Australia, 14,701 shavers have raised $10,459,478 to further lifesaving research and support families facing blood cancer.

If you would liketoregister forthe World's Greatest Shave or to donate,head to www. worldsgreatestshave.com

Federation Universityisbecoming one of Australia'sfirst co-operativeuniversities: “Co-operative universities are ones where you have asignificant amount of time in embedded employment for students as they learn in their particular degrees. So the cooperative university is about working with our industry partners to develop our study programs to help us deliver those, whether it’s in the workplace or in on the campus so that students gain the skills and the attributes that aretransferable foralifetime career,” the deputy vice-chancellor added.

“When people study in the region they tend to stay in theregion and they tend to become peoplewho are gainfullyemployed and thatare community citizens.

“The two major groupstoday were nursing and teaching, obviously two massive professionsthat are always in need. There are alwaysshortages

In her graduate speech, Ms Gilliland said: "As agraduateofhigher learning, as you move through your career, I’d like to leave you with this thought -away of thinking that Ioften hear in my workplace; that drives me in the work that Ido, both paid and unpaid; thatbringsmeagain to the value and richnessindiversity; that is as applicable to us as agraduating cohort,asitis to workplaces and communities right acrossour beautifulregion of Gippsland; that is: Together, we are stronger”.

Withahistory spanning more than 150years, FederationUniversity Australia is Victoria’s premier regional dual-sectoruniversity,with campuses locatedinBallarat,Berwick,Brisbane, Gippsland and Wimmera.

Bold andbald: Trafalgar High School students join the World’sGreatest Shave

Photographs: Zaida Glibanovic

Ceremony: Federation Universitystudentshappilyadorn traditional academicregalia fortheir graduation.

Photograph: Zaida Glibanovic

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne Madeline Moore

March 27 -April 2, 2023

Aries Mercury and Jupiter join up in your sign; Venus and Uranus unite in your self-esteem zone; and Mars trines Saturn So it’s time to be publicly confident about your capabilities – and fiercely protective of your privacy If you don’t love yourself and respect your talents, then why should anyone else? So your motto is from birthday great, Aries singer and actress Lady Gaga: “Don’t you ever let a soul in the world tell you that you can’t be exactly who you are

Taurus Are you stubbornly holding onto outdated ideas? Are you sticking to obsolete ways of thinking as if you ’ re on autopilot?

This week the planets encourage you to let go of an old grudge put aside pre-conceived notions, and examine current circumstances in a progressive philosophical new light So your motto for the moment is from Aries writer and activist Maya Angelou: “If you don’t like something, change it If you can’t change it, change your attitude ”

Gemini The planets precipitate a r Gomantic or friendship shake-up, as you reassess your relationship priorities But under the influence of impulsive Mars, you could blow your budget with a spontaneous spending spree Or commit yourself to an ambitious project that you really don’t have the energy or enthusiasm for So think things through before you make promises! You’ll find short-term big talk is no good if it doesn’t translate into longterm dynamic action

Cancer Proactive Mars is charging through your sign, which provides the drive and passion to start steering your life in a more autonomous direction It s also time to stop blaming other people for current problems

Put on your Big Girl (or Big Boy) pants and accept responsibility for the choices you make Be inspired by birthday writer and adventurer Giacomo Casanova: “Whatever I have done in the course of my life has been done freely; I am a free agent ”

Leo Tuesday’s Mercury/Jupiter conjunction encourages you to transform your life by broadening and deepening your horizons physically, mentally and spiritually It’s also time to expand your circle of influence and make some positive (and possibly radical) changes, especially at work Stay alert so you can capitalise on any lucky opportunities that come your way But be careful you don’t upset someone by making an impulsive, insensitive remark

Virgo Taskmaster Saturn is transiting slowly throug gh your love zone for the first time since 1996 So you are in for some romantic hiccups and partnership challenges But your first priority is to love and value yourself – then satisfying relationships will follow As singer/ actress (and birthday great) Pearl Bailey reminds us: “You cannot belong to anyone else until you belong to yourself ” Tuesday favours teaching, study, research and philosophical discussions

Libra When it comes to close relationships appearances and natural talents, don’t get hung up on an obsession with perfection This week Jupiter encourages you to accept people as they are and appreciate the positives in your life Plus, Uranus urges (and dares) you to shake things up and be who you really are, mistakes and all Be inspired by singer and actress Lady Gaga (who turns 37 on Tuesday): “I am not perfect; I just think that imperfections are beautiful ”

Scorpio

Proactive Mars is powering through your learning and travel zones (until May 20), so tertiary education, philosophical conversations, and overseas adventures are favoured The Sun, Venus and Uranus also shine a bright spotlight on important relationships (of the romantic and platonic variety) in your life How can they be nurtured and improved? But don’t let other people drain your energy and upset your equilibrium Stay strong and centred Scorpio!

Sagittarius Expect an interesting jugg gle On the one hand, avoid jumping to hasty conclusions On the other hand, don’t waste too much time weighing up the pros and cons of a given situation The current planetary patterns discourage being overly-impulsive AND ruminating for too long The best approach is to think things through carefully; then start turning your ideas into productive projects Aim to get the balance right between deep reflection and fiery action

Great start to the year

THE school year has had apositive start at Kosciuszko Street Primary School.

The school has welcomed two Prep classes, full of enthusiastic learners, new staff and student leaders.

Prep students have settled in well to their new schoollife, and are showing their eagerness to learn.

Prep Rteacher Ms Rowed said, “It has been a pleasure so far welcoming the youngest students to the school.”

studentleaders have done in theirroles around theschool.

At the start of the month, students were presented with their badges in front of the Kossie community during aschool-wide assembly.

Special recognition went to school captains, vice-captains, housecaptains, library leadersand greenteam leaders.

Capricorn

You’ve got a lot on your plate at the moment, Capricorn, but avoid getting into super-stressed mode! Active Mars is moving through your relationship zone, which will help shift a close partnership or joint venture that has been stuck on cruise control And Saturn (your patron planet) is now transiting through your study, communication and neighbourhood zones So there is much to be gained from education, conversation and community connections

Aquarius Has someone (or something) been q clipping your wings? This week’s Venus/ Uranus conjunction sees curious Aquarians keen to explore experiment and ricochet off in diverse new directions So do your best to keep expressing your true self in increasingly creative and quirky ways As birthday great Lady Gaga observes: “You have to be unique and different and shine in your own way You could also travel, move house locally or relocate interstate Pisces With Saturn transiting through your sign (for the first time since 1996) you need to be realistic responsible and self-aware Avoiding the facts and making false assumptions will get you nowhere fast – especially when it comes to health, career and relationships Mercury and Jupiter join up in your self-esteem zone on Tuesday So inspiration for the week comes from birthday great, singer and actress Pearl Bailey: “No one can figure out your worth but you ”

CopyrightJoanne Madeline Moore 2023

Kossie has welcomed four new teachers, working across all year levels, Miss Kilpatrick, Miss Maynard, Miss Darby and Mr Anglim.

Additionally, three new trainees have begun their education support traineeship this year, Miss Smith, Miss Aand Miss Rusz.

Kossie also acknowledged the terrific job the new

All student leaders work hard to support students, and the school community throughout their various roles.

Congratulations to Joey, Lucas, Sampson and Caleb who have takenonthe important role of school captains and vice-captains at Kosciuszko Street this year.

Leaders: KosciuszkoStreet PrimarySchool captains Joey,Lucas, Sampson and Caleb.

Photograph supplied

TheGuide

Wild things: Dr Chris Brown and Julia Morris return to South Africa for ImaCelebrity GetMeOutofHere!

UNDER THEVINES

ABC TV,Saturday, 8.20pm

MARRIEDATFIRST

SIGHT

Nine, Monday, 7.30pm

I’M ACELEBRITY…GET ME OUT OF HERE!

10, Sunday, 7.30pm

Another year another band of familiar (and not-so-familiar) celebrities are deposited into the jungle campsite If you ve managed to steer clear of the rumour mill about who will end up in the wilderness, tonight s premiere will be a pleasant surprise This year, the cast and crew have returned to the wilds of Africa so expect tiger puns and elephant jokes galore from seasoned hosts Julia Morris and Dr Chris Brown Last seasons winner radio star Dylan Lewis donated his hefty $100000 to charity Lifeline Set to feature an outspoken radio host and a sporting legend, viewers can feel good that this palaver is all for a worthy cause

Wednesday,March 29

7.30 7.30 Presented by Sarah Ferguson.

8.00 Hard Quiz (PG) Presented by TomGleeson.

8.35 TheWeekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG) Asatirical newsprogram.

9.05 Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala HostedbyLukeMcGregor

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 TheBusiness. (R)

11.40 Frayed. (MA15+ls,R) 12.25 Parliament Question Time. 1.25 Finding Alice. (Ml, R)

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

7.30.(R)

ABC TV PLUS (22)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) Presented by Marc Fennell

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Premiere,M) Survivalists put their skills to the test.

9.30 Ruthless: Monopoly’sSecret History. The story behind America’s favourite game, Monopoly:anuntold tale of theft, obsessionand double-dealing

10.30 SBS WorldNews Late.

11.00 Furia. (Premiere, MA15+av) Aman movestoasmall Norwegian town.

11.55 TheSleepers. (Maln, R)

3.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

Since the pandemic,daydreaming aboutuprooting to the country to eke out an idyllic lifeonavineyard has become amainstream folly. In this charming andfrothyKiwi draama Rebecca Gibney (pictured, PackedtotheRafters)and C Charles Edwards(Downton A Abbey)playa mismatched p pair ofstrangers whosomehow inherited awineryinNew Zealand together.Ofcourse, it isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. As we near the end ofthis first season, Daisyand d Louis arestartingtowarmtoeach other,with Gibneyand Edwards exuding apalpablechemistry. Tonight,Daisyisoverthe moon aboutGriffin (Dean O’Gorman) visiting, but the mood is soured by Louis’wallowing following his marriagebreak-up.

If you’vestudiously tuned in for the past10seasons of unwavering drama, betrayal, ferocious flirting and bad behaviour,you know what you’re in forwith tonight’sfinale reunion special: moredrama, with a sly little reveal or surprise. Tuning in forthisemotional wreckage season in and season out is undoubtedly an entertainingguilty pleasure: just makesureyou takeamoment to wash away the indiscretions and tune back into real (unscripted) lifeafterwards. Thetumultuous couplesface experts John Aiken, Mel Schilling and clinical sexologist AlessandraRampolla (pictured) one final time to reflect on what they have (andhaven’t)learnt.

WHO DO YOUTHINK YOUARE?US

SBS, Tuesday, 7.30pm

Some say that the less youknow about an actor’spersonallife, the morebelievable they areinany given r role; there’s s no risk of confusing the real with the fictitious. Forthis reason many actorsunderstandably prefer to keep their personallives separate from theirprofessional ones BreakingBadstar Bryan Cranston (pictured) is one such actor who seemstomanage to dodge the paparazzi and any unwanted attention. But,weall have our weaknesses andCranston’sis presumably theallureofgenealogy and discovering nuggets from his family s past. Get to know the star sfamily storyashe unearths an ancestor’s heroic dedication duringthe Civil War.

Posy. 5.35 Baby Jake 5.45 Late Programs.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home AndAway. (PGadv)

7.30 We InterruptThis Broadcast (PG)Sketch comedy series.

8.30 TheFront Bar. (M) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang andAndyMaher takealighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Inside Detroit. (Mal) Ben Fogle explores Detroit.

11.00 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)

12.30 Filthy Rich. (Mav,R) [VIC]HomeShopping 4.00 NBCToday 5.00 SevenEarly News.

Sunrise.

6.00 NineNews

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Under Investigation: TheThirdVictim. (Mav)

8.30 Million Dollar Murders:Murder Beyond TheBlack Stump (Mav, R) Alook at themurder

March 30

6.00 TheDrum

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 Foreign Correspondent. International affairs program.

8.30 Grand Designs: TheStreets. Part 5of5.Kevin McCloud follows the progress of army couple Leah and Craig.

9.20 Griff’sCanadian Adventure: Coldness. (R) Griff Rhys Jones visits Manitoba, North Canada.

10.10 ArtWorks. (R)

10.40 ABCLateNews.

10.55 TheBusiness. (R)

11.10 Back In Time ForThe CornerShop (PG, R)

12.10 Q+A. (R)

1.15 Parliament Question Time. 2.15 Rage (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 AntiquesRoadshow.(R)

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

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) Presented by MarcFennell.

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Dinosaur With Stephen Fry: Killer Dinosaurs. (PG) Part 3of4

8.30 TheElon Musk Show. (Premiere) Part 1of3.The intimate story of Elon Musk’s journey to becomethe world’s richestman.

9.40 Vigil. (MA15+av) Kristen closes in on the killer,only to havetheir capture reveal athreat to theVigil

10.40 SBSWorld News Late.

11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads) Hermine plotsher revenge.

12.05 TheEagle. (Malsv, R)

4.10 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight

Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 SevenMorning News. 12.00 MOVIE: ThePerfectParents. (2017,Mav,R)Briana

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Football. AFL.Round 3. Western BulldogsvBrisbane Lions. From Marvel Stadium, Melbourne.

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

11.00 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.45 Black-ish. (Return, PGd) BowconvincesDre to attend afundraising event where they meet Michelle Obama.

1.00[VIC]HomeShopping.

1.15 Black-ish. (PGv) Dre can’t seem to land agood pitch at his firm.

2.00 Home Shopping (R)

4.00 NBCToday. News and current affairs.

5.00 SevenEarly News.

5.30 Sunrise. News, sportand weather

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair.

7.30 RBT. (PGl, R) Alook at random breath test patrols.

8.30 Paramedics. (Ma, R) The fun ambulance helps seriously ill children escape from theirdaily challenges.

9.30 Australia Behind Bars (Madl, R) Melissa Doyle takes alook beyond the high walls and barbed wiresofthree of maximum security prisons.

10.30 A+EAfter Dark. (Mlm, R)

11.25 Nine News Late.

11.50 Prison (Mal, R)

(PG,

Friday, March 31

6.00 TheDrum Analysisofthe day’snews.

7.00 ABC News Takesalook at today’stop stories.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane Edmansonvisits aquirky home garden.

8.30 VanDer Valk. (Mav) Part 2of3

Theuse of an Indonesian ceremonial sword as amurder weapon leads Van der Valk and the team deep into the world of colonialism, stolen artefacts and thethorny issue of restitution.

10.00 Jack Irish. (Malv, R) Part 2of4

10.55 ABC Late News. Coverage of theday’sevents.

11.15 Close To Me (Mals, R) Awoman losesher memory.

12.00 Traces. (Madl, R)

12.45 Smother (Mal, R)

1.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Wrecks That Changed The World: FailedInvasions. (PG) Takesa look at shipwrecks.

8.30 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways: Cornwall. (R) RobBellexploreshow copper mining once dominated Cornwall and followstwo of theregion’s firstrailways.

9.25 Viking Empires: TheDynasty Of Ivarr. (PGav,R)Part 2of2.Charts thefortunes of the Ivar Dynasty and theViking town of Dublin.

10.25 SBS WorldNewsLate.

10.55 Gomorrah. (MA15+av,R)

1.40 Romulus. (MA15+av,R)

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Better Homes AndGardens. Graham Ross, Charlie Albone and Melissa Kingcheck outthe Melbourne International Flower &GardenShow

7.30 Football AFL.Round 3. Collingwood vRichmond. From the MCG.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.

11.00 Armchair Experts. (M) Apanel discussesall things AFL

12.00 MOVIE: All-American Girl: TheMaryKay Letourneau Story. (2000,Mas, R) Ateacher and student begin an affair.Penelope Ann Miller

2.00 Home Shopping (R)

6.00 NineNews.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Escape To TheChateau. TheChateau is makingupfor lost time.

8.30 MOVIE: RedDog. (2011, PGals, R) Adog manages to unite aremote outback community whilesearching for his dead master. Josh Lucas, Rachael Taylor, Rohan Nichol.

10.30 MOVIE: TheAdventures Of Priscilla, Queen Of TheDesert. (1994,Mls,R)Dragqueens travel across the Australian desert. Guy Pearce.

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.20 9HoneyHacks. (PG,R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6.30 TheProject. Alook at the day’snews andevents

7.30 Taskmaster Australia. (PGls) Hosted by TomGleeson

8.30 GoggleboxAustralia. Adiverse range of people open their living rooms to reveal their reactionstopopular and topical TV shows, with the help of special, locked-off cameras which captureevery unpredictable moment.

9.30 HarleyBreen:Flat Out. (Mls) Astand-up performanceby award-winning comedianHarleyBreen from Melbourne’sMalthouse Theatre.

11.00 TheProject (R) Alook at the day’snews and events.

12.00 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30[VIC]

6.30 TheProject.

7.30 TheGraham Norton Show. (Mlv,R)Guests include Jamie LeeCurtis.

8.30 Taskmaster Australia. (PGls,R) Comedy game showfeaturing comedians performing aseries of tricky tasks.

9.30 TheGraham Norton Show. (Mals, R) Guests include Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kate Hudson, ElizabethBanks and Edward Enninful.

10.30 JustFor Laughs Australia. (Mls, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

3.35 MastermindAustralia. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe WorldTonight.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

4.00 Postcards.(PG, R) 4.30 Global Shop

(R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30

SkippyThe Bush Kangaroo.(R)

Colbert

THE EXPRESS SPORTS JOURNALISTS EXAMINE EVERYCLUB INTHE GIPPSLAND, MID GIPPSLANDAND NORTH GIPPSLAND LEAGUES

GIPPSLAND FOOTY AND NETBALL | 2023 PREVIEW

Back in business, that time of year again

By LIAM DURKIN WELCOMETO

SEASON2023

Not long now until the ball is tossed up (no umpirebounces the ball in local footy surely?) on the field and the first centre pass is thrown on the netball court.

Clubs have been putting in the hard yards over summer in anticipation for what is to come.

The practice matches have come and gone, giving onlookers avague idea of how sides areshaping up.

No preseason would be complete without acollision with the ‘silly season’, where the race to sign certain players can often be as hotly contested as what takes place on field.

Boards and committees areinittowin aflag just as much as players and coaches.

While thereare many sayings in football, one of most accurate has to be: Youcan’t win apremiership in preseason, but you can certainly lose one.

Which clubs will fall into which category as season 2023 unfolds?

The other great saying is: The most dangerous thing in football is to say,‘that’s the way we’ve always done it’.

Will we see some clubs break the mould

Liam Durkin

PREMIERS

Gippsland League

Football: Traralgon

Netball: Moe

Mid Gippsland

Football: Tarwin

Netball: Morwell East

North Gippsland

Football: Woodside

Netball: Glengarry

Trood Award and Rodda Medal: Shannen Lange (Sale)

this season and produce something special, something pundits didn’tthink they werecapable of?

Let’shope so.

The last thing anyone wants is astale competition. Fingers crossed we do not know what the top five/six is going to look like after the first month.

This is unlikely to be the case in the Gippsland League, where, by natureof demographics, the gap between those in the top half and those in

the bottom generally isn’thuge.

In the minor leagues this cannot always be the case, but here’shoping to competitive matches for most of the 18 rounds.

In any competition, even the AFL, thereis always going to be teams that struggle. Youjust hope they don’tbecome percentage boosters for the opposition.

For now however,this is usually the most exciting time of year for players and clubs -not everyone will play finals, but

everyone will play in the opening round. And at this time of year (generally speaking) no one really knows just how good or bad they aregoing to be.

From an Express viewpoint, this season will see the returnofadedicated football/ netball lift out.

Each week during the season, we hope to not only provide scores and reports from football and netball games, but also interesting pieces from clubs and players. We areasking for the assistance of clubs and players on this front. It needs to be atwo-way street if we aregoing to make our sports coverage the best it can be. Our reporters in the field this season are TomHayes, Zoe Askew,Zaida Glibanovic and myself.

Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on your viewpoint) we areall active players in local sport, and will be on the ground moreoften than not to provide an insightful perspective on games.

As editor,itismyaim to deliver morethan just ‘this team beat this team and these werethe scores’.

If people want to know scores, they can check PlayHQ.

Speaking of PlayHQ, please work for us this year

OUR TEAM’S PREDICTIONS FOR THE SEASON AHEAD

Zaida Glibanovic

PREMIERS

Gippsland League

Football: Leongatha

Netball: Morwell

Mid Gippsland

Football: Newborough

Netball: Mirboo North

North Gippsland

Football: YYN

Netball: Churchill

Trood Award and Rodda Medal: Jarryd Blair (Wonthaggi)

Hutchison Medal: Nicola Marriott (Leongatha)

Hutchison Medal: Selene Chadrawy (Warragul)

Tom Hayes

PREMIERS

Gippsland League

Football: Leongatha

Netball: Morwell

Mid Gippsland

Football: Morwell East

Netball: Yinnar

North Gippsland

Football: Churchill

Netball: Woodside

Trood Award and Rodda Medal: Tom Marriott (Leongatha)

Hutchison Medal: Shannon Freeman (Morwell)

Zoe Askew

PREMIERS

Gippsland League

Football: Sale

Netball: Morwell

Mid Gippsland

Football:

Newborough

Netball: Mirboo North

North Gippsland

Football: Heyfield

Netball: Glengarry

Trood Award and Rodda Medal: Shannen Lange (Sale)

Hutchison Medal: Courtney Garth (Morwell)

Strong showing predicted for Gippsland League

By LIAM DURKIN

It just keeps getting stronger.

All looks in storefor the Gippsland League to deliver another high quality, and equally unforgiving, competition in 2023.

Of the 10 competing clubs, seven have former AFL players.

Drouin and Bairnsdale carrysomething of the unknown quantity label, which makes for adangerous proposition.

Both teams arehardtobeat at home, and should not be taken lightly by visiting sides.

As the season draws closer,clubs will be putting the finishing touches into making surethey have everything in order for the next six months.

Of the three remaining, they all have players with VFL alignment, or players touted to featureheavily come AFL draft night later in the year

[CAPTION]

Get the picture?

This is the Gippsland League -they don't just give you 15 wins to finish top three.

Ahigh-quality league needs ahighquality fixture, and those charged with scheduling have produced what appears to be awell thought out draw

First tick of the year to those working in this department.

The Gippsland League fixturehas ample breaks this season, ensuring the risk of player burnout will be lowered.

Taking in Easter,thereistwo whole-round byes, and asplit round two rounds before finals. So, players and officials essentially have four weeks offspread over 18 rounds/21 weeks.

When you break it down like that, there really shouldn’tbeany reason for players not to be fully committed -you aregoing to get abreak pretty much everyfive weeks.

In theory, with so many breaks, teams should be able to field their best 22 moreoften than not, meaning spectators should be treated to some great matches.

Gippsland League coaches shouldn’tbe exempt either,aswith so many breaks, therecan be no excuse for poor player management, or for not keeping people engaged -you will only have players for five week blocks at amaximum anyway

Speaking of coaches, the Latrobe Valley-based clubs will all be rolling with playing-coaches in season 2023.

Boyd Bailey is only days away from

making his senior coaching debut at Morwell, and will be up against Moe counterpartDeclan Keilty first up.

Traralgon coach Jake Best is in the deep end as far as assignments go, with Leongatha to open the Maroons' season.

The Parrots currently boast the longest winning streak of any countryfootball team in Victoria.

Having made it to the second week of finals last year,the Maroons will morethan likely need to beat Leongatha at some stage during September if they want to go all the way

The Parrots know exactly what is required to win premierships; they've won three from the last six consecutive Grand Finals.

While everyone's time at the top eventually comes to an end, by all reports the Parrots arehellbent on going for one last flag.

Traralgon's premiership window looks to be the most open of any Latrobe Valley club, and interest will abound to see if they can bring aGippsland League flag back to the area for the first time since 2015.

Sale should also be mentioned in the premiership stakes.

The Magpies made it all the way to the Grand Final last year,and put in two memorable performances during the finals series on their way to the decider

It would be no surprise to see Sale in the last game of the season again this year,and I'm predicting aTraralgon/Sale Grand Final.

Don't forget Wonthaggi though.

The Power missed the Grand Final (and defeating Leongatha for that matter) by two points last year -and then lost the preliminaryfinal the next week.

As we said, it's an unforgiving competition.

Wonthaggi certainly won't have to look hardfor motivation this season, nor will Maffra, who missed finals for the first time this millennium last year

Operating at opposite ends of the geographic scale, Bairnsdale, Drouin and Warragul will be seeking to take further steps in the right direction.

The Gulls have former AFL journeyman and Gippsland boy Jed Lamb in the coaches seat for the first time, along with some good young players coming through. Warragul played in both junior Grand Finals last season, and could unearth some gold nuggets from those sides.

Being in the Gippsland League presents unique challenges.

At club administration level, thereisthe coordination of teams and welcoming of guests from an area spanning morethan 200 kilometres.

At aplaying level, thereisthe commitment required to play matches across that same distance.

At acoaching level, thereisthe background work to make sureyou have the resources to get through 22 gruelling weeks. It's taken me 10 years to realise you essentially need two senior teams to be acontender at this level.

Possibly the most unique challenge in the Gippsland League is having umpires from four different associations. Naturally, (and in the greatest respect) having umpires across that many different panels means thereisalways going to be inconsistencies.

The rewards on offer however formpartof the appeal.

Ask any Gippsland League player from the Valley getting on the bus after they've won playing in Wonthaggi or Bairnsdale, and they will tell you, it makes for one great trip home.

Thereisnodoubting it is ahard competition, but that is the whole point of the Gippsland League -it's supposed to be hard.

Perhaps that is why the senior premiership cup is so big -itreflects the enormity of the task.

Predicted ladder:Traralgon, Sale, Leongatha,Wonthaggi, Morwell, Moe, Maffra,Warragul, Drouin, Bairnsdale

Traralgonhas the makingsofa strong team for season 2023.

By LIAM DURKIN

THE premiership window just added another sill.

Traralgon looks to be aprime contender for this year’stitle, and on paper at least, could well be the strongest side assembled in the Gippsland League

The Maroons have added some significant names to the list, and been able to get anumber of ‘Traralgon people’ back playing for the club. Therewill certainly be an element of unfinished business for Traralgon, after bowing out of the finals in an epic battle with Sale last year

That semi-final defeat was by just two points. Given the Magpies went on to play in the Grand Final, and given the players the Maroons have brought in, it would be reasonably assumed Traralgon is set for asuccessful season.

But then again, thereare no guarantees, as returning playing-coach Jake Best rightly pointed out.

While Best said finals was “certainly the aim”, he pointed to the development of the club’syounger players as equally important.

Morwell

By LIAM DURKIN

YOU had to take your hat offtoMorwell in 2022.

The Tigers went into the midseason break with only won four wins to their name. They then won six of their last nine to make finals.

No one knew who Tristan Waack, Nathan Noblett or Sam Walsh werethis time last year

Within six months they werehousehold names.

Waack took 12 marks in afinal and came runner-up in the league best and fairest. Anyone see that coming?

Wasafinals qualification an accurate reflection of how Morwell performed holistically? Or did they just get absolutely everything out of themselves in the second half of the season?

How season 2023 unfolds may be the best judge on that, but as the season gets underway,new playing-coach Boyd Bailey will be hoping it isn’tacase of second-year blues.

For what it’sworth, the Maroons arestill relatively youthful, meaning the coaching staffheaded by Best almost has two jobs to do at once: winning games now,and setting Traralgon up for the long term.

Pleasingly for Best, he has an eager group at his disposal, and reported “the best numbers in my time at the club” during preseason.

The attitude of the players appears to be first rate as well.

Nearly two years on from the devastating

floods, and with their home change rooms still in abarely usable state, the players have made the most of what they have, and simply got on with the task at hand.

By all reports, the changeroom saga has only galvanised the playing group even more.

From aneutral observer’sview,Traralgon would have to be bullish about their prospects this season.

The Maroons morethan matched it with Leongatha last year,getting within agoal on both occasions during the home-andaway season.

Former locals Jordan Cunico, Jackson McMahon, Connor Ambler,Hayden Britten and Danny Campbell areall back on board, and will slot back into roles seamlessly Cunico (who played for Geelong) adds to the Maroons’ AFL experience, that currently boasts Brett Eddy and Tom Schneider Britten kicked four goals in Traralgon’s last senior premiership of 2015, while McMahon was one of the competition’s best young players beforemoving away recently

Campbell has committed to playing the full season, and will coach the thirds, while Trent Anderson replaces Martin

allowed the Tigers to plan with certainty -akey ingredient to the futuresuccess of any football organisation.

Taking over fulltime will carrysome challenges, but with 12 months preparation under his belt, Bailey believes the Tigers areingood shape moving forward.

“I think the way we did it worked out pretty well for me, not having to jump straight in the deep end, being able to work with Denis last year has definitely been advantageous for us,” he said.

Coach: Jake Best

In: Jordan Cunico (VFL, returning local), Danny Campbell (Yinnar), Lachlan McDonald (Morwell), Connor Ambler,Jackson McMahon (Labrador QLD), Jesse Jackway (Heyfield), Billy Schilling (Montrose), Hayden Britten (Glengarry), Liam Hahn, Max Jacobsen, Brad Kimberley (Caloundra) Harper Fox (Rosedale), Nate Thomson (Churchill).

Out: Daniel Reid (Lang Lang), David Brinker-Richie (SANFL).

VFL: Luis D’Angelo (Box Hill).

Last season: Fourth (12 wins, 6 losses, 1draw).

Recent finishes: 4th (2022), 7th (2019), 3rd(2018), 3rd(2017).

Cameron as reserves coach. Cameron of course won the state election last year,and is now the Member for Morwell.

Many will be hoping he isn’tTraralgon’s only big winner in 12 months’ time. Durks’verdict: Think they can win the whole thing.

Coach: Boyd Bailey

In: Darnell Grech (Moe), Adam Braendler,Brandon Bailey (North Heidleberg), Jake Suter (Rosedale).

Out: Nathan Noblett (Noble Park), Kuiy Jiath (Blackburn), Lachlan McDonald (Traralgon).

VFL: Tristan Waack (Box Hill).

Last season: Fifth (10 wins, 9 losses).

Bailey enters the fray having served a one-year apprenticeship under Denis Knight; atransition that looks everybit in the Clarkson-Mitchell mould.

Just as Sam Mitchell was unofficially coaching Hawthornduring Clarkson’s last year,therecan be little doubt Bailey was doing the same thing at times with Morwell last season.

Having that succession in place has

“My job’sbeen made alot easier because we have our three line coaches (Brad Knowles, John Reid and Michael ‘Funky’ Duncan’, not to be confused with the Woodside coach also from Morwell and also named Michael Duncan), and the twos coach, Rick Galea, able to give me achop-out at training, so we’ve been able to sharethe workload around pretty well.”

While no two coaches arethe same, Bailey said he would be looking to continue on the groundwork put in by Knight in the last few years.

“Wehaven’tchanged too much, the base of what we built on is still similar,” Bailey said.

Recent finishes: 5th (2022), 9th (2019), 9th (2018), 5th (2017).

Under Knight, Morwell appeared to spend ayear learning how to defend in 2021, beforemoving into the offensive component.

They say defence fills your trophy cabinet and offence fills your grand stand. Watching the Tigers play last year,one thing certainly stood out: They all just kept running.

Just what Morwellcan produce this year withanew coach adds to the intrigue. Durks’verdict: Last year wasn’tafluke, finals definitely on the cards again.

Dan Musil hasbeenkey to Morwell resurgence in recent seasons

Tate Marshand hisTraralgon teammates have reason to be confident headingintoseason 2023.

ALINTAENERGY AENERGY | GIPPSLAND LEAGUE | 2023 PREVIEW

Moe

By LIAM DURKIN

THEY do say winning wallpapers over a lot of cracks.

After starting last season 5-0, things well and truly fell apartfor Moe, who only managed to win three of their last 13 games. Amounting casualty ward, described by many long-serving Lion supporters as the worst they had ever seen at the club, was one contributing factor,compounded by anumber of other issues that meant the season was virtually awrite-offafter Round 12.

For various reasons, Moe has lost at least adozen players on average per season since 2018 to neighbouring minor leagues.

Such aturnover eventually caught up with the Lions last year,tothe point wherethey virtually had no players to choose from.

As aresult, therewas some nightmarish performances in the back-half of the season; two 100-point losses and another one by 90 points being cases in point.

Aparticularly horrendous day at Sale had one Moe player labelling it their lowest

Coach: Declan Keilty

Ins: Mitchell Stanlake, Jack Brinact, Warren Hester (all Newborough), Nick Prowse, Chris Prowse (both Maribynong Park), Luke Mulqueen, Ben Kerrigan, Tyler Pratt, Nathan Balfour (all Hill End), Lucas Forrato, Kristian Jaksch (both returning)

Outs: Clinton Taylor (retired), Darnell Grech (Morwell), Joe Skinner (South Adelaide), Liam Michie, Caleb Michie, Riley Taws (all TTU), Nathan Wheildon, Sam Hanson (both Newborough), Luke Summersgill (YYN)

VFL: Riley Baldi (Casey)

Last season: Seventh (eight wins, 10 losses)

Recent finishes: 7th (2022), 3rd(2019), 5th (2018), 4th (2017)

moment in 10 years at the club.

From the depths of despair however comes hope, and by all accounts, season 2023 began beforeseason 2022 even ended.

Not long after hanging up the boots after morethan 200 distinguished games in the maroon and blue, Clinton Taylor dived into his role as football manager, aposition many insiders believe is the perfect job for him.

The appointment of Taylor to that position may well prove to be the best decision Moe makes in recent memory.

Having afull-time football manager to handle what goes on behind-the-scenes

should take the workload offreturning senior coach Declan Keilty,and more especially,reserves coach Aaron Wilson. For Moe, their measureofsuccess may well be determined by how many times Wilson turns up to agame saying “how can we win?” rather than “how many have we got?”

While Keilty acknowledged the season just gone was achallenge, he said he felt better equipped this time around.

“The year didn’tpan out the way we wanted to, you learnalot about how to deal with that as anew coach and as a player,” he said.

“The biggest thing (heading into this year)

was the supportnetwork for myself and the other coaches. We had pretty much me and one other coach (last year), being acoach and player,itjust wasn’t viable at all, so we have really bolstered our supportnetwork around the club.

Clinton Taylor stepping into the manager’s role has been the best thing for us, trying to make surewehave ahealthy list.” In fairness, one had to feel slightly sorry for Keilty last year.Heprobably went in thinking he had players like Tyson Biffin, Mitchell Stanlake, Lachlan Rees and Kristian Jaksch for the whole seasonand none of them ended up playing. He has them all now,which should make some difference to on field performance. However,the coach said had asimple objective front of mind.

“The main hope Iwant out of this season is just to make surewehave areal culture that the other clubs see us acompetitive team, and everytime they verse us they know it is going to be ahardgame,” he said.

“It is the same feeling you get when you verse Leongatha, Sale, Wonthaggi regardless of who is in and out of their team it is going to be atough match, that is what Iwant from us, to really stand out in the competition in that sense.”

Durks’verdict: Fighting Morwell for fifth.

Looking at the surrounding Gippsland League clubs

Coach: Logan Austin

Ins: Jarrod Stewart (Leongatha), Will Mitchell (Northern Bullants), Lachlan

Byrne-Jones (VAFA), Xavier Richards (VAFA, ex-AFL) Jayson

Miller,HarryCook (both Waverley Blues)

Out: Shaun Mooney, Sam Park (Lucknow), Harrison Preston (Hampton), Austin Hodge, Daniel Preston (travelling)

Verdict: Always hard to take points off, especially at home. Will again provide honest competition.

Coach: Brent Clinnick

Ins: Alex McMillan, Xavier Kinder,Will Papley,Matthew Interlandi (all Bunyip), Bailey Stevens (Longwarry), Matthew Stein (Knox), Aaron Pawel (Chelsea), Hugo Birks (Sandringham Dragons).

Out: Seth Calway (Hill End)

Verdict: Will pick up a few wins, and anew coach means early season upsets are likely.They can beat anyone on awet day at Drouin.

Coach: Trent McMicking

In: Guy Dickson (Kyneton), Jenson Matt Borschman (overseas), Mitch Bentvelzen (returning)

Out: Jarrod Stewart (Bairnsdale), Tom Crocker,Ricky

O’Loughlin (Tarwin), Matt Wilcocks (Vermont), Dylan Garnham (Yarram), Ben Hughes (Labrador), Louis Riseley (Ashwood)

Verdict: They’ve got it all. Their twos would have made senior finals last year.Top three again.

Coach: Anthony Robbins

In: Kieran Jones (Boolarra), Brayden Monk (Williamstown), Nathan Pollard (Lindenow South)

Out: Hudson Holmes (Sale), Mitch Bennett (Heyfield), TomJolly, Jamie McIntosh (both Boisdale Briagolong), Curtley Nettleton (Orbost Snowy Rovers), Ryan Auld (Springvale), Harry Gravener (South Barwon)

Verdict: Still well in the mix for finals. Might have asurprise up their sleeve.

Coach: Jack Johnstone

In: Adam Wallace (Heyfield), Brad McKay (Rosedale), Hudson Holmes (Maffra), Lachlan Ronchi (returning) Bohdi Walker (Sale City)

Out: Mitch Thacker (overseas), Lachlan Todd (Perth RAAF posted), Ryan Pendlebury(Euroa), Luke Di Ciero (Bentleigh)

Verdict: Seriously good side. Anything less than apreliminary final would be a surprise.

Coach: Jed Lamb

In: Liam Sumner (St Paul’sMcKinnon), Corbin Sutherland (Yarram), Bayley Paul (Hill End), Jack Casson (Cowwarr), Tom Hobbs (returning), Out: Brayden Fowler (Warragul Industrials), Lachlan Wilson (Hill End), TomCarpenter (Catani), Mitch Nobelius (Buln Buln), Nicholas Graham (retired), Jack Maibaum (Claremont WAFL).

Verdict: Mid-table.

Coach: Jarryd Blair

In: Issac Chugg (Collingwood), Harry Miller (Glen Waverley) Cooper McInnes (Tarwin)

Out: Steve Scott, Lachie Burns (both Kilcunda Bass), Dean McRae, Brayden Duve (Dalyston)

Verdict: Dark horse. Did so much right last year and go in virtually unchanged. Could come back physically stronger,werebeaten up badly in the prelim by Sale.

Baiirnsddalle

S Salle

L Leongattha

W Wontthaggi

D Drouiin

W Warragul l

M Mafffra

Can anyone knock the Tiger train off the rails?

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC and ZOE ASKEW

IT looms as another competitiveyear of Gippsland League netball in 2023.

Morwell

Coach: Tanya Budge

Last season: Premiers (19 wins, 0 losses, 1draw)

Out: Daisy Hill (VNL)

VNL: Shannon Freeman, Anna Solomon (Casey Demons)

MORWELL, who remained undefeated throughout the 2022 season, may continue this winning streak into 2023. With the tightest defence in the league, only conceding 584 goals in 2022, the Tigers will continue that formasthe unstoppable defensive duo consisting of Shannon Freeman, Tanya Budge and Courtney Garth sign on.

Freeman will be the key player this year, showcasing her on courtdominance taking out both club and league best and fairest awards in 2022. Freeman only keeps getting better,being selected into the 2023 Collingwood Magpies Academy

Budge, adual Morwell premiership player,isexcited for 2023.

“I’m looking forwardtokeeping up our cohesiveness as aplaying group, our mateship, and continuing to develop our game structurewehave worked hard on,” she said.

With amotivated playing group, another solid preseason, and the drive to go back-to-back-to back, Morwell will be out to be another unstoppable force this season.

Traralgon

Coach: Kate French

Last season: Fifth (10 wins, 7losses, 2 draws)

Ins: Bron Tebb (Rosedale), Milly Murphy, Ashlyn Pavey,Cassidy Smith, Montana Styles (all promoted)

Outs: Maddi Stockdale, Matilda VanBerkel, Alex Riddington, Stacey Jacobsen (pregnancy)

Kate French, agreat asset to the club, has coached Traralgon AGrade for six seasons since 2014.

“Wehave been verylucky to recruit Bron Tebb from North Gippy into our AGrade side,” French said.

“Bron brings awealth of experience and talent and is able to swing both ends

of the court, which provides us with versatility

“Wealso have promoted Milly Murphy, Ashlyn Pavey and Cassidy Smith after an impressive season last year and performance in AGrade over the season when given the opportunities to play up agrade. Lastly,Montana Styles has secured apermanent position in AGrade after being our junior development player in season 2022.”

Traralgon Football-Netball Club president Kevin Foley is confident in French and her team.

“Wehave agreat rivalrywith Morwell, and watching the Round 3battle under lights between our two great AGrade sides will be veryentertaining,” he said.

Moe

Coach: Ramayer Gourley

Last season: Third(13 wins, 6losses, 1 draw)

Ins: Charlize Bird(Newborough), Abby Gregorovich (Blackwood Park)

Out: Taylin Gourley (retired), Laini Galea (South Australia)

VNL: Abby Gregorovich (Ariels), Olivia Barnett (Hawks), Ramayer Gourley (Melbourne Uni), Georgia Moody (North East Blaze), Alex Moody (Southern Saints)

ALEX Moody,selected thirdbest player in the league’stop 25 list, will continue to showcase her midcourtdominance for the Lions, and will certainly be one to watch for league votes.

Ramayer Gourley will be coach again. Gourley would have had learnt afew things from the last season. Expect the talented netballer to continue her on court success as coach and lead the Moe Lions into another final series this season. Moe has regained the services of 2018 premiership player Charlize Bird, but will be without up-and-coming star Laini Galea, and goal shooter Taylin Gourley, who has been forced into an early retirement.

The Lions should enjoy strong depth this season, with anumber of players reportedly joining the ranks from across other Gippsland leagues.

Leongatha

Coach: Kath Reid

Last season: Second (15 wins, 5losses, 1draw)

In: Kate Browne (injury), Lara Stefani

(Fish Creek)

VNL: Tayla Brown, Lara Stefani (Boroondara)

NEW Agrade coach Kath Reid has about 20 years of coaching experience under her belt.

When asked about the competition, Reid stated “thereisnospecific game I’m looking forwardto, we will be taking each one as important as the other no matter wherethey areonthe ladder.”

Reid emphasised how this year is about success, but also growth as aclub to make many life-long memories.

Wonthaggi

Last season: Fourth (11 wins, 8losses, 1draw)

Out: Ellie Bates (Tarwin), Courtney Young, Zali Anderson, Laura Williams, Chloe Marshall

THE Power had an outstanding 2022, finishing fourth for the second consecutive year

However,2023 may be in doubt with some pretty big outs for Wonthaggi which might prove difficult for the club.

Wonthaggi would be scrambling to fill the void Courtney Young leaves, as well as Ellie Bates, who is another player the Power couldn’taffordtolose. Hopefully,Wonthaggi can overcome a mass exodus to stay in the top four,but chances arethey’reintrouble.

Drouin

Coach: Stacie Gardiner

Last season: Sixth (8 wins, 10 losses)

In: Chloe Papley (Bunyip), AvaGaul (VNL), Karina Proctor (returning)

VNL: Stacie Gardiner,April Bethune (Peninsula Waves), Lucy McKellar (Hawks)

LAST season saw Stacie Gardiner play her 150th game at VNL level, and she took out Drouin’sbest and fairest.

Gardiner,Lucy McKellar,Kim Diston, April Bethune, Kelly Mills, Sarah Russell and Ella Henderson will all returntothe court for the Hawks, while Chloe Papley and AvaGual have joined the club. Just missing out on finals last year,are expected to be up therethis year

Warragul

Coach: Renee Cook and Kim Weller

Last Season: Seventh (7 wins, 11 losses)

In: Kate Emerson (Geelong), Selene

Chadrawy (NSW Premier League)

Out: Mia McGarrity,Bronte Harvey

VNL: Selene Chadrawy,Ella Rees (both Casey), Sienna Green (Hawks)

WARRAGUL has made some huge signings in the offseason. The Gulls have brought in Kate Emerson, while rookie of the year and Box Hill Hawks Under 19s captain Sienna Green makes areturnto Warragul.

An exciting new addition to the Gulls line-up is Selene Chadrawy

Chadrawy is aand wing defence and has had aformidable netball career,from representing NSW,then Australia squad in Under 17s, selection in the Giants Netball Academy,toplaying for South Coast Blaze in the NSW Origin Energy Premier League competition.

Maffra

Coach: Stacey Scott

Last season: Eighth (6 wins, 12 losses) WITH 2022 being the first time since 1999 Maffra did not make senior football finals, and the CGrade netball side was the sole netball team to advance to aGrand Final, surely Maffra will be praying to the football-netball gods for abetter 2023 season.

Having previously coached at Maffra as well as Rosedale and completing several pathway coaching programs, Stacey Scott will add experience to the Eagles’ young 2023 side.

Sale

Coach: Jo Ballinger

Last season: Ninth (3 wins, 15 losses).

In: Dee Dee Lambert(Boorandarra), Lara van der Voort.

VNL: Dee Dee Lambert(Boorandarra), Tegan Harrison (Hawks), Maddie Fullgrabe (Casey U19).

SALE enters 2023 with plenty of room to improve after finishing ninth at the end of the 2022 season.

The Magpies should be better with the addition of Dee Dee Lambert, and will benefit if all VNL players areavailable to pull on the black and white.

Bairnsdale

Last Season: 10th (0 wins, 18 losses) WELL it’sonly up from herefor Bairnsdale.

After not claiming asingle win across the 2022 season, Bairnsdale can’thave any worse aseason in 2023.

The doors to finals are wide open for many

By LIAM DURKIN

EVEN asuper-computer would have trouble predicting Mid Gippsland football this season.

Less than three weeks out from the first game, choosing atop-six is hardenough -let alone apremier

By natureofa13-team competition, there is set to be acluster of teams battling it out for places in the finals action.

While atop-six might appear to give more clubs an opportunity to play finals, the pathway to qualification is anything but straightforward.

Just last season, Mirboo North finished 10th, but only lost two less games than eventual premier Yinnar Margins. Such tight margins.

With this in mind, it is clear each and everygame in Mid Gippsland carries a consequence, making the repercussions all the moresevere. Drop the bundle for even one week and it could be difference between playing finals and not -asafew clubs found out the hardway in 2022.

League officials would have surely been pleased to see such ahealthy competition, and long may it continue.

Afair criticism of the old 10-team Mid Gippy was that the top five was virtually set after Round 5. In 2014, the team that finished fifth was 28 points clear of the team that finished sixth by season’send.

Thankfully,those days look to be over Most games look as though they will present awelcome challenge, and if not, they will at least carrysome meaning.

After all, only two teams out of 13 get the double chance. That is how cutthroat it is. Thereisnotime to rest on your laurels. Reigning premier Yinnar will be out to secureback-to-back titles.

The Magpies did famously come from sixth last season, although in the eyes of most, that home-and-away finish was not atrue reflection of the side’scapabilities. Truthfully,the Magpies could have easily

finished top-two. Yinnar won nine homeand-away games, but of the seven they lost, six werebyless than 12 points.

As they set about their flag defence, the Magpies’ case could be help by reports Adam Bailey has signed on.

The two-time Morwell premiership winner knows how to set clubs up for long-term success, as demonstrated by his work at YallournYallournNorth.

The Jets have won two senior flags since Bailey laid the foundation as senior coach in the mid 2010’s.

Last year’srunner-up, Newborough, looks to be in aposition to contend again.

The Bulldogs secured the double chance in 2022, but their run to the premiership was hampered by the most bizarre external factor,one that can only be described as sheer misfortune.

Newborough had abye in the last round, and was ‘rewarded’ with aweek offinthe first week of finals after finishing top-two.

The Bulldogs then won the semi-final to advance to the decider,but had another week offinbetween games.

So, they went into aGrand Final having played one game in five weeks -hardly ideal preparation.

While in theory, aweek’srest should allow players the chance to freshen up, this is Mid Gippy footy.Players aren’tpreparing to play if they have aweek off-they are going straight to the pub.

Tarwin, dismissed in straight sets after claiming the minor premiership last season, will surely be motivated, while the fortunes of their South Gippsland counterparts carrysomething of an unknown quantity

Thereisgeneral consensus we didn’tsee the best of Fish Creek last year,and there is nothing to suggest they can’tgofrom seven wins to 10 wins this year to lock in afinals spot.

Although we might have seen the best of Foster last year -the problem was their best came during the home-and-away campaign. For afew weeks leading into finals, the Tigers genuinely looked like winning it. But, they missed the double chance by percentage, and then bombed their first final.

As we said, margins. Such tight margins. Having lost afew players, Foster might be one team that slides; the same could be said for Morwell East.

Stony Creek, Toora, Thorpdale and MDU could all be among the competitions improvers.

The Lions and Blues both have highprofile coaches at the helm, and even better is the fact they areboth locals.

Stony Creek has Chris Verboon, aman rated the Gippsland League’sbest player in 2019, while Thorpdale has Essendon 100-gamer Jason Winderlich.

The Lions have undertaken aslightly different preseason, partnering with Leongatha (Verboon’sold club) in order to better their football education.

Education shouldn’tbeanissue at Thorpdale; what morecould you ask for than to have someone who was coached by Kevin Sheedy?

MDU has recruited players from here, thereand everywhere, and time will tell if they areable to make much difference.

Having won the reserves flag last year, it is understood afew Toora players, having got the glorythey wereafter,have committed to playing seniors this year

Boolarra and Hill End will be eyeing off another finals campaign. The two smalltown clubs haven’tlost morethan they have gained, but will be atad anxious as internally,they probably know they need to make the most of their opportunity beforetime passes by

An interesting name among the Boolarra ‘ins’, is Simon Noy listed. Although he hasn’tplayed in afew years, he has enjoyed acareer playing across the area, winning asenior flag at Morwell and coaching Yarragon seniors.

That just leaves Mirboo North.

If thereisone thing you don’tdoitiswrite them off.

New coach Peter Mongta is back for a second stint. He only coached the Tigers for one season the last time around, and that was enough to win apremiership.

Can he make it two from two?

Ladder Prediction:

Yinnar,Tarwin, Newborough, Fish Creek, Boolarra,Mirboo North, Hill End, StonyCreek, Foster,Morwell East, Thorpdale,MDU,Toora.

Afterfinishingrunner-up,Newborough’S AlexSkinner will be aimingtotakethe Dogs one step further in 2023

Yinnar

Coach: Daniel Taylor

Ins: Mark Stolk (returning player)

Outs: Luke Linton (travelling)

Last season: Premiers (13 wins, 7losses)

THE reigning premier will be the hunted in season 2023, after surprising the competition to win the flag from sixth on the ladder

With this now comes alot of added pressurethat wouldn’thave been thereif the premiership went any other way

Yinnar will be hoping that the momentum of last year’sfinals run can continue into 2023, as they get their season under way Round 1isaGrand Final rematch against

Boolarra

Coach: Tony Giardina

Ins: Chris Whiteoak (Woodside), Jake Jacobsen (new), Simon Noy (returning to football)

Outs: Kieran Jones (Maffra), Joel Mason (Churchill), Ricky Cochrane (TTU)

Last season: Fourth (11 wins, 6losses, 1draw)

BOOLARRA jumped into the top four last season with an impressive home-andaway recordof10-5-1, albeit, they were knocked out by the eventual premier, Yinnar in the semi-final.

Some depth has drifted from the side for 2023, players like Kieran Jones, Joel Mason and Ricky Cochrane all depart, leaving holes to fill.

Last year was defined by taking advantage of their opportunities given, but also letting things get away from

Newborough at home, and they will be hoping to get the better of the Bulldogs once again.

“We’ve got seven young blokes up from last year’sthirds, and thereisthree or four thirds kids this year that will be really pushing for selection come Round 1,” senior coach Daniel Taylor said.

“It’saveryexciting time for the club.”

Many might suggest that Yinnar’sfinal ladder position in 2022 didn’treflect their entireseason.

Especially after the Magpies lost a plethora of close games, causing them to nearly fall out of finals completley

One thing is for certain, if the Magpies can close out games convincingly,as they proved they could do in the 2022 finals series, then they will surely be a force to be reckoned with in 2023.

Newborough

Coach: Craig Skinner

Ins: Jake Bishop (Traralgon), Billy Webster (returning player), Jack Duncan (Hill End), Nathan Wheildon, Sam Hanson, Jack Vandendolder (all Moe)

Outs: Chris Gardiner (Toora), Mitchell Stanlake, Warren Hester (both Moe)

Last season: Runner-up (13 wins, 5 losses)

NEWBOROUGH was awfully close to premiership gloryseason, and must’ve been confident knowing they’d have to face ateam that placed sixth in the decider

The howling wind at Morwell East for the Grand Final made things difficult for either side, but Yinnar wereable to make the most of it.

Newborough faced the struggle of having only played two games in amonth heading into the Grand Final, thanks to

Hill End

them, as they won close games (drawing one), but allowed lesser teams to get the better of them at times.

If Boolarra can grow collectively and disallow teams from having asniff, then nothing is stopping them from being a finals force again.

The Demons believe they have sustained enough firepower to continue to be a finals contender,keeping the mentality that grew in 2022.

“Wehave areally good coreofplayers who aredoing all the hardwork and putting in the effort, and improvement has started to show,” senior coach Tony Giardina said.

“After last year’sfinals berth and the fact our players lost and gained is pretty much even, the goal is again to be apart of the finals.”

Boolarra will be in the hunt in 2023.

Coach: Mike Santo

Ins: Lachie Wilson (Warragul), Daniel Coates (Warragul), Seth Calway (Drouin), Troy Clarke (Ellinbank District FNL), Harry Moore(Ellinbank District FNL)

Outs: Bayley Paul (Warragul), Luke Mulqueen, Tyler Pratt, Ben Kerrigan (all Moe)

Last season: Fifth (9 wins, 7losses, 1 draw)

THINGS have been ticking along nicely at the Hill.

The Hillmen have been attracting good numbers to training, and have put that to use against some North Gippsland Football-Netball League competition; TTU and Gormandale.

Fitness has been the key at Hill End, whereas on the field the main thing they aretrying to address is talent and

the bye beforethe finals, which could have disturbed their momentum.

Some big additions to Newborough could help them find the highest point of the league if things go their way

Round 1isaGrand Final rematch against Yinnar,which will set the tone immediately for their season.

“Our expectations in 2023 aretoagain play deep into finals and we’rethankful to be playing Round 18 this year,” senior coach Craig Skinner said.

“With acompetition so even, we know everygame will be achallenge, with all clubs looking to have improved their senior squads from last year

“I feel like we have recruited to fill all our needs and look forwardtoseeing some new faces with the Bulldog jumper on.

“Our first game is against Yinnar,at Yinnar,soit’satough start, but to be the best we have to beat the best.”

effortwhich has been worked on, which hopefully irons out some wrinkles allowing them to be morecomposed in tight affairs.

Hill End snuck into finals thanks to a draw in Round 2against Boolarra last year,however they then faced the same competition in the elimination final, resulting in athree-goal defeat.

Hill End’sinability to put teams away hindered their percentage, but the most important part-getting the four pointswas achieved on most occasions.

If the Hillmen areable to be abit more dominant, drag afew moreresults their way,then they can leave it all to play for in finals once again in 2023.

The Hillmen would hope to find themselves in asimilar situation to last year, with an alternate ending, after bowing out of the finals race earlier than expected.

Mirboo North

Coach: Peter Mongta

Ins: Jake Nash, Darcy Brock, Hayden Brock (all Trafalgar)

Outs: Liam Nash (Barwon FNL), Rory Peter (Churchill)

Last season: 10th (7 wins, 9losses)

MIRBOO North suffered quite the fall from grace last season, in comparison to recent years, falling to 10th.

Something that they might not be used to -missing out on finals -became a reality when the side was two wins away from contention.

Akey to getting back to their best might just be beginning to be unlockedkeeping the coregroup together

Despite exits, Mirboo North has been able to attract three new players in their hopes of climbing back up the ladder

Luckily for them, their thirds side were

premiers in the Under 18 competition, and thereissuretobesome fresh, youthful additions to climb into the senior ranks.

Rejuvenation continues to find its way around the club, with new coaching appointments across all football grades, which will bring anew plethora of ideas.

“The club have agood mix of players which range from 18-22 year olds, and some quality matureage players that will play key position,” senior coach Peter Mongta said.

“The club’sexpectations will be to play finals in 2023, after missing out for the first time since 2003.

“The list has shown it’scapable after a great back end season under Josh Taylor which is always apositive.”

After falling eight points shortofeventual premiers, Yinnar,Mirboo North will want to turnthings around in 2023.

Thorpdale

Coaches: Jason Winderlich and Ray Pickering

Ins: Travis Patten (Glengarry)

Outs: Brayden Hunt (EasternFNL), Thomas Poulton (Glengarry), Michael McMahon (SouthernFNL), James Durkin (Outer East FNL)

Last season: 12th (1 win, 15 losses)

THORPDALE had aseason to forget in 2022, coming second-last in the league with just one win.

This feat burst out afour-game gap to the next team -MDU, who would presumably want to achieve moretoo.

The introduction of local and ex-Essendon footballer Jason Winderlich as coach alongside Ray Pickering, would surely turnheads in the league, as he would be able to transcend AFL knowledge onto his players.

One thing that Thorpdale will hope

Morwell East

Coach: Paul Henry

Ins: Hamish Towns (Boolarra), Michael Diaz (Churchill), Ben Lewis (Thorpdale), Adam Chawner (Morwell)

Outs: Joel Souter (retired), Michael Hutchinson (retired), Shaun Barnes (retired)

Last season: Seventh (9 wins, 7losses)

AFTER cementing themselves with the top seven clubs in the league, Morwell East wereunlucky to miss out on finals.

They narrowly finished seventh on percentage to Yinnar -the eventual premiers -but in the grand scheme of things, wereone game away from the top five.

Key signings with the likes of newlyappointed captain Lucas Towns’ brother

-Hamish, and former Churchill best and fairest winner,Michael Diaz, is sureto bolster their midfield stocks.

The injection of speed and youth could outweigh the multiple retirees they have, meaning we could expect adifferent style.

That different style of play might come into effect due to the fact they have appointed anew senior coach in Paul Henry.

In 2023, Morwell East will celebrate 50 years as aclub, so they will want to make it ayear to remember both on and offthe field.

With acouple of good pre-season hit outs under their belt, Morwell East will be aiming for finals nonetheless, in hopes to continue their upwardtrajectoryin2023.

Surrounding Clubs

Tarwin

Coach: Troy Hemming

(NorthernTerritory)

Outs: Kairon Dorling (West Gippsland FNL)

to improve on is their ability to be competitive, as they weretrounced most weeks, explaining their percentage of just 46.5 per cent.

Their only win was aone-point victory over MDU, while they werebeaten easily by wooden spooners, Toora, by more than five goals -Toora’sonly win for the season.

After afew tough years, the club will be hoping to turnover anew leaf in the near future, hopefully starting in 2023.

If you want someone to be helping out as coach, who better than someone who played under Kevin Sheedy,and on top of that, over 100 AFL games.

Thorpdale haven’thad many memorable seasons in recent years gone by,asthe club suffers setback after setback, they will be hoping to turnover anew leaf and make 2023 one to remember,whether that is for on-field performances or not.

Ins: Jordan Hill (West Gippsland FNL), Ricky O’Loughlin (Leongatha), Tom Crocker (Leongatha), Morti Snooks (West Gippsland FNL)

Outs: Cooper McKinnis (Wonthaggi), Nick Anderson (Ellinbank District FNL), Noah Bee-Hickman (Outer East FNL)

Last season: Third(14 wins, 4losses)

Foster

Coach: Sam Davies

Ins: Will McDonald (MDU)

Outs: Josh Toner (Toora), Billy Flavelle (Mornington Peninsula FNL), Alex Kane (retired)

Last season: Sixth (12 wins, 5losses)

Stony Creek

Coach: Chris Verboon

Ins: Mitch Rowe (full time basis), Aidan Simmons, Cody Loughridge, Troy

Shepherdson

Last season: Eighth (7 wins, 9losses)

Fish Creek

Coach: Jarrod Walker

Ins: HarrySmith (Mornington Peninsula FNL), Jarrod Livingston

Last season: Ninth (7 wins, 9losses)

MDU

Coach: Nathan Allen

Ins: Ben Parry(Leongatha), Darren Sheen (SouthernFNL), Jayden Deas (Mornington Peninsula FNL), Ben Schroen (Mornington Peninsula FNL), Jye Celebrine (West Gippsland FNL), Billy Evers (Queensland), Shae Walsh (Queensland), Ash Allen (West Gippsland FNL)

Outs: Tyson Findlay (West Gippsland FNL), Stephen Hawkins (Mornington Peninsula FNL)

Last season: 11th (5 wins, 11 losses)

Toora

Coach: Jack Weston

Ins: Chris Gardiner (Newborough), Josh Toner (Foster), Majok Puok (SouthernFNL), Chotnyang Puok (SouthernFNL), Brendan Weston (Yarram), Jean Bezzene (Southern FNL)

Outs: Matt Ponton (injured), Jake McFarland (Yarram), Ryan Archer (Mornington Peninsula FNL), Jesse Biemans (relocated)

Last season: 13th (1 win, 15 losses)

Interesting battle to play out in Mid Gippsland

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

Toora

Coaches: Hannah Weston and Kelsey

Angwin

Last season: Premiers (14 wins, 1loss, 1draw)

TOORA won’tever forget winning their first ever AGrade premiership last year In anail-biting win, the side was able to narrowly get over the line to take home the flag.

Will therebeanother fairytale ending for Toora?

Toora’spreseason consisted of a triathlon sponsored by Star of the South Project.

With atriathlon in the bank, the Toora team is fit and firing to do it all over again in 2023.

From all reports, Toora can verymuch so go back-to-back in 2023.

Mirboo North

Coach:Mikeali Hilliar

Last Season: Runner-up (14 wins, 1 loss)

MIRBOO North has unfinished business to resolve in 2023.

Coming offadevastating Grand Final loss after the siren, the Tigers will come out twice as strong to win the flag this season.

New AGrade coach with abig last name, Mikeali Hilliar comes from Mirboo North royalty Hilliar has come into the role after coaching the Tigers BGrade side to a premiership in 2022.

“Being quite young and new to coaching, Iamstill finding my feet and learning so many things,’’she said. “I was also apartofthe AGrade loss (after the siren), which was really disappointing and hardfor the girls Ihave no doubt the ones apartoflast year have fireintheir bellies to go one further this year

“From last year to this year thereare quite afew changes due to some big injuries and pregnancies. We have lost some big names but also welcomed some veryexciting new faces and welcomed back some old/experienced players!"

Mirboo North has landed quite possibly the biggest signing in MGFNL netball, with local and Olympic basketballer Belinda Snell joining the leadership team.

Yinnar

Coach: Skye McDonald

Last Season: Third(13 wins, 2losses, 1draw)

MID Gippsland powerhouse Yinnar will be aforce to be reckoned with in 2023. Only losing to Toora by two goals in the preliminaryfinal, therewill be no shortage of motivation at the Magpies. Everyone knows Yinnar areaquality side, but they’ve fallen just shortofthe end goal in the last two seasons.

Skye McDonald will once again don the black and white as aplaying coach to tryand win another premiership.

McDonald is an experienced leader and adecorated player that will have the tools necessarytotake the Pies all the way this year

Morwell East

Coach: Maddison Burney

Last Season: Fourth (13 wins, 3losses)

In: Charlie Chila (Churchill)

AFTER falling shorttoYinnar 63-49 in the semi-final, Morwell East is driven to get back to the finals.

With aleague-best percentage of 176.92, an excuse Morwell East’spoor finals performance might have just been nerves.

Be suretosee experienced coach Maddison Burney demand respect.

With shooter of the year,shooting a whopping 622 goals for 2022, Danni Dunn will be aheadache for the competitions defence.

Sienna Blair,ayoung gun defender,and Sukie Hodgson will be among those to watch.

The club will celebrate its 50th year, and have the chance to beat reigning premiers, Toora, on the anniversaryof the date.

Burney stated, “Wefell shortlosing by one goal in our 2022 encounter and are looking forwardtothe challenge.”

“Weare going into the 2023 with the expectation of success, Ithink it’s important to set the bar at the highest level and measureprogress against that."

Fish Creek

Coach: Jayde McGlead

Last Season: Fifth (10 wins, 6losses)

JAYDE McGlead returns as Fish Creek’s AGrade coach.

Losing to Morwell East in the elimination final in 2022, the Kangaroos will be hungrytogoagain.

Newborough

Coach: Sammy Waters

Last Season: Sixth (10 wins, 6losses)

In: Olivia Rock (Moe), Gemma VanDyke

Out: Piper Albertand Charlize Bird (Moe)

SAMMY Waters demands the best out of the players in her team.

Waters has again been reappointed as Newborough’sAGrade coach for another year

On the rise, the Bulldogs have seen a steady improvement in 2022 from eighth to sixth and afinals game. Despite seeing Newborough go down 34-59 to adominant Yinnar in the elimination final, Water’sside show’s potential.

Newborough continues to be in a developmental phase, the team’sage only ranges from 18 to 22, making them one of the youngest teams in the competition.

In addition, Ella Cornish is set to make a Round 1returnfollowing an ACL injury. Though the Mid Gippsland competition at the top end consists of experienced and well-rounded teams, Waters is sure that her side will remain competitive and will be able to take their wins as they come.

“We’ll still give them arun for their money,” she said.

Boolarra

Coach: Greta Douch

Last season: Seventh (7 wins, 9losses)

In: Courtney Risol (Morwell East), Enui Thorburn, Kaylah Thorburn(BGrade)

BOOLARRA is aiming for finals contention.

With veteran coach Greta Douch again leading the charge in her fourth year,the Demons want to show the competition who they are.

Douch is an experienced netball coach with life membership at Gormandale and a2018 Newborough AGrade premiership under her belt.

Douch has coached many teams over her senior career Douch's tough-love style, allows her to get the best from her team. Some new players join the Dee’sas Courtney Risol and Jackie Price team up once again having played under Douch in the Newborough 2018 flag.

Mother-daughter duo Enui and Kaylah Thorburndominated BGrade last year and have earned themselves aspot in the top side.

MDU

Coach:Jasmine Friend

Last Season: Eighth (6 wins, 10 losses)

In: Alahana Arnason, Tahlia Arnason, Sharni Harris (Under 15s)

Out: Louie Patten (Churchill)

Playing coach Jasmine Friend will lead the charge at MDU for the first time.

“I am really excited about the 2023 season this year.This is my first year coaching AGrade at MDU and Ibelieve we have averyversatile and talented group of players this season,” she said.

Tarwin

Coach: Marnie Purvis and Amy Robertson

Last Season: Ninth (6 wins, 10 losses)

In: Ellie Bates (Wonthaggi), Kate McCraken, Laura Robins

Out: Sophie Bolam and Brooke Cleeland

Hill End

Last Season: 10th (5 wins, 11 losses)

STRUGGLING for numbers, Hill End have been on the hunt for an AGrade coach and side all preseason.

Hill End have been denied the motion to compete without asenior side, which means they will be forced to field an A Grade team each week.

The team will be made up of players from other grades.

The club is working hardtoretain players and will trytorecruit for the 2024 season.

Foster

Coach: Amanda Briody

Last Season: 11th (3 wins, 13 losses)

Thorpdale

Last Season: 12th (1 win, 15 losses)

THORPDALE will look to their future.

Having been awarded agrace period of 12 months as voted by the league, the Blues areallowed to compete despite not fielding an AGrade side. Hopefully,the Blues will be able to get their netball program back in shape for 2024.

Stony Creek

Coach: Jeanette Brown

Last Season: 13th (1 win, 15 losses)

In: Holly Monaghan, Melissa Blackshaw, Nilushika Nadee De Silva

Usual suspects predicted to be hard to beat in 2023

By TOM HAYES

THE 2023 North Gippsland Football-Netball League season hopes to continue to set acompetitivestandard, as clubs bolster their squads.

Footballers from not only across the region and the state, but also from various points of the countrywill soon be in action to display their talent for their new respective clubs.

We can expect the usual suspects to continue to be dominant, as was shown in 2022, but from an audience’s perspective, we hope we can see some moreclubs fighting for the top of the ladder

Speaking of usual suspects, reigning premiers, YallournYallournNorth, are expected to be tough to beat, as they will undoubtedly play for back-to-back North Gippy flags (and three as aclub, adding to their 2019 title won as aMid Gippsland FNL club).

Although not much has changed at the Jets, it might make it alittle bit easier to predict what to expect.

Despite finishing second last year, Churchill will want to make the most of their chances, after going out in straight sets.

Aplethora of new names and faces will be suretorejuvenate the team and give them areal chance at the pointy end of the season, as they look to cover their losses of Jake Roe-Duggan and Michael Diaz with the returnofformer premiership players Joel Mason, Chris Kyriacou and Blake Slater

Traralgon Tyers United made inroads on the league last season, climbing to a Grand Final, afortnight after defeating the eventual premier in asemi final.

Concernsticks around TTU as they have gone through apersonnel shift and will be spending plenty of time beginning to mould as ateam, yet the signings of Frazar Brouns and Ricky Cochrane look positive due to their known league presence.

Yarram will undoubtedly want to climb the

ladder and returntotheir best, which they have been able to show in recent years. They have made the equal-most amount of signings coming into the 2023 season, with nine, and that added depth could just be what they need to propel them higher up the ladder

Woodside made an unexpected jump to lead the league in the 2021 season, that was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Since then they remained to stay competitive, proven with their preliminary final appearance, yet it wasn’tquite the

heights they know they could be capable of.

The closest team to the top-five last season was in fact Sale City,who missed finals contention by two points.

The Bulldogs would have to fancy themselves for finals in 2023, especially with the quality of signings they made.

Sale City signed two footballers from South Australia; HarryKaandorp and Matt Walker,aswell as VAFA talent Joel Walton.

The next cluster of teams will be wanting to improve and make that next step towards finals; Heyfield, Rosedale and Glengarry.

All three of these teams finished just as close or closer to the bottom of the ladder than they weretothe top-four

Once again, all three clubs have something in common, as they have all sourced new formulas, with new senior coaches coming in for 2023; Leigh Brown at Heyfield, Jeremy Reid at Rosedale and Ray Burgess at Glengarry.

It will only be amatter of time beforewe can figureout which formula was most effective, but it would be asurprise to see either of the three playing in September

It was abattle for the wooden spoon between Cowwarr and Gormandale last season, the latter taking the unwanted honour

Both finished the season with a1-15 record.

Cowwarr have also made nine signings, like Yarram, as the importance of depth appears to be clear to the senior success, incoming players include players from around the region, returning talent and interstate recruits.

Gormandale don’tappear as attractive and it may cost them, as things might look worse beforethey look better

Ladder prediction:

Churchill,YallournYallournNorth, Yarram,Woodside,Traralgon Tyers United, Sale City,Heyfield, Glengarry, Cowwarr, Rosedale,Gormandale

CollingwoodpremiershipplayerLeighBrown is abouttocommencecoaching his home club,Heyfield. Brownwon’tbethe only ex-Magpie in the NGFNLthis season,with little-known former rookie Daniel Farmer at Woodside

YallournYallourn North provedits class last season,winningthe North Gippslandflag in itsfirst full year as aNGFNLclub.

YallournYallournNorth

Coach: Barrie Burnett

Ins: TomHutton (US), Luke Summersgill (Moe)

Outs: Nil

Last season: Premiers (16 wins, 2losses)

IN their first full season, YallournYallourn North wereback to their best, taking out the North Gippsland Football-Netball League premiership.

Just three years prior,the then YYN Bombers, claimed the Mid Gippsland FNL premiership in 2019, beforeplaying their first NGFNL games in 2021.

It was clear they adjusted quickly,as YYN lost just two games throughout 2022; a13-point loss to Churchill in Round 3and an embarrassing semi-final loss to Traralgon Tyers United, before besting them to win the flag in similar circumstances.

Churchill

Coach: Jordan Fenech

Ins: Joel Mason (Boolarra), Tyson Leys (Trafalgar), Chris Kyriacou (Trafalgar), Blake Slater (Trafalgar), RoryPeter (Mirboo North)

Outs: Jake Roe-Duggan (Seville), Michael Diaz (Morwell East), Riley Flanigan (Melbourne)

Last season: Fourth (13 wins, 5losses)

SOLE coach Jordan Fenech will be assisted by new recruit and returning player,Chris Kyriacou, who holds a wealth of football knowledge in and outside of Churchill.

Despite losing regular names, Churchill has recruited well while keeping its core, covering their losses, looking stronger going into 2023.

New recruits, along with players returning from injuryand players progressing the ranks, Churchill have far moredepth compared to previous seasons.

TraralgonTyersUnited

Over the course of 2022, YYN’s momentum continued to grow,amassing apercentage just shy of 300 (295.49 per cent).

TomHutton announced that he would return, despite recovering from an ACL injury, because of this, he mightn’tbe seen until 2024.

YYN have opted to run with afairly unchanged list, and it can only be expected to see the Jets up the top of the ladder,fighting for back-to-back success in 2023.

“This year we’rethe hunted, we’ll have to step up our game,” senior Coach Barrie Burnett said.

“Obviously thereistweaks to be made hereand there…we’ll just go in and stick to our plan.”

Would it be possible to see the Jets go back-to-back (to-back)?

Coach: Jamie Aitken

Ins: Rohan Hildebrand (Rosedale), Frazar Brouns (Rosedale), Ricky Cochrane (Boolarra), Oscar Aliotta (NorthernTasmania Football Association), Flynn Shields (Traralgon), Liam Michie, Caleb Michie, Riley Taws (all Moe)

Outs: Jayden Cutts (VAFA), Rohan Hore (retired), Linc Albanesse (retired)

Last season: Runner-up (14 wins, 5 losses)

TRARALGON Tyers United wereawfully close to premiership success in 2022, if it wasn’tfor the consistency and might of YYN.

TTU faced YYN in aGrand Final, after defeating their opponents just two weeks prior by awhopping 48 points.

It wasn’tmeant to be, as they were handed ataste of their own medicine in a 44-point Grand Final beat down.

TTU weredefeated by opponents equal

Glengarry

This alone, could in fact help the reserves side, who struggled with consistency and relied on an ever-changing coretolead them each week.

The addition of Tyson Leys offers variation in the middle with existing players, and the welcomed returns of Joel Mason, Chris Kyriacou and RoryPeter give the Cougars aboost in all areas of the ground.

In the first completed season since the pandemic, Churchill finished the season in second, but had afinal series to forget, going out in straight sets.

The semi final loss to Woodside won’t want to be remembered, and the playing group certainly won’twant to experience that feeling again.

An injury-free season for the Cougars could be the key to success in 2023, as they hunt down aflag which they haven’t tasted for four seasons.

Coach: Ray Burgess

Ins: Thomas Poulton (Thorpdale), Kyle Whateley (back from hiatus), Mitch Harris (Gormandale), Beau Huttton (Yinnar), Cam Graham (returning player), Jake Reed (returning player), Steven Burgess (Gormandale)

Outs: Jay Neagle (retired), Jackson Hall (retired), Nic Quenalt (retired), Pete Brady (retired), Travis Patten (Boolarra)

Last season: Ninth (5 wins, 11 losses) GLENGARRYremained in ninth spot last season, wherethey finished for the interrupted 2021 season. They endured one of the hardest starts seen recently,facing offagainst the eventual top-three teams, Churchill, TTU and YYN, and losing by an average of 76 points.

The Magpies wereable to match-up well with sides in and around their ladder position, progressively improving as the season went on.

Iknow the 2022 season is done and dusted now,but if close results went their

to or lower than them last season, which could’ve shaped their season differently if results went the other way

They started the season with 17-point loss to Yarram, who finished fifth, before going on afour-game winning streak.

YYN wereable to complete adouble over TTU, and Sale City weirdly got the better of them in afour-point thriller in Round 9.

“We’rejust hoping to continue good form that we got from the back end of last year and take it into this year,” senior coach Jamie Aitken said.

“Wewant to play finals, that’sour goal. “Obviously (the playing group is) hungry, we’ve had abit of aturnover in personnel, so the list gets rejuvenated abit and obviously with disappointment comes hunger.”

It’sfair to say that if consistency arrives at TTU, they could be aforce to be reckoned with, but uncertainty could still loom if results vary.

way,they could’ve been close to atop-six finish, similarly to if Collingwood lost their close games in 2022, they mightn’thave played finals.

The appointment of Ray Burgess as coach may install some hope into the Glengarryside, as he has coached winning premierships at Wollongong Football-Netball Club in 2017 and 2019.

Signings of Thomas Poulton, Kyle Whateley and Mitch Harris give Glengarry flexibility around the ground due to their versatility

Stepping up from the assistant coaching role in 2022, Ray Burgess will coach the team in 2023.

“I spent some time with them last year the goal is to get better,learntoplay footy at asenior level,” Burgess said.

“We’respreading the load amongst the group …we’ve got some experienced guys mixed in with some young guys (in the leaderships group).

“We’ve got some good habits so we hope to continue those into the season.”

FOOTBALL

NETBALL LEAGUE

| 2023 PREVIEW

Cowwarr

Coach: Luke Hegarty

Ins: Nick Twomey (Churchill), Rhys Luxford(Churchill), Jake Brown (Mirboo North), Siaosi Lay-Blake (returning player), Tyson Kavanagh (Gormandale), KurtHenderson (Bendigo FNL), Tommy Pattle (WesternAustralia), Brad McBride (returning player), Matt Johnston (returning player)

Outs: Jack Casson (Warragul)

Last season: 10th (1 win, 15 losses)

COWWARR have realised aneed to improve, going on asigning spree in an attempt to climb the ladder in 2023. Just six per cent separated Cowwarr from the wooden spoon last year

The youthful injection of players can only set their side up for the future, yet the development side of things is still yet to be seen.

Cowwarr conceded nearly four times as many points than they scored in 2022,

Rosedale

Coach: Jeremy Reid

Ins: Corey Beaver (returning player), Darryl Mayman-French (Mirboo North), Brock Williams (VAFA), TomAnderson (WesternRegion FL)

Outs: Frazar Brouns (TTU), Rohan Hildebrand (TTU), Jake Suter (Morwell), Nathan Flint (Boisdale-Briagolong), Brad McKay (Sale)

Last season: Eighth (5 wins, 10 losses, 1 draw)

ASTRUGGLING season last year would be an appropriate way to describe Rosedale in 2022.

They wereultimately four-and-a-half games away from finals with coach Brad McKay in charge.

Now anew system will be in place for new coach Jeremy Reid, as he looks to youth and experience to lead the side. If they need help with rhythm, perhaps

something that must improve in order to progress.

In order to combat the ongoing defensive issue, Cowwarr have introduced players that could play apartindeveloping that aspect.

The signings of Nick Twomey and Jake Brown compliment the half-back line, as they have shown at previous clubs, while the introduction of moreyouth may rejuvenate the rest of the squad.

“In 2023 we’ve injected some much needed youth to add to our coregroup, and still have afew players returning as well,” senior coach Luke Hegarty said.

“Weare implementing asolid game plan and lifting expectations, with the plan to be competitive week in, week out, which we hope will put us in aposition to win moregames.”

If we weretosee any team make a massive climb up the ladder,could it be Cowwarr?

Heyfield

Coach: Leigh Brown

Ins: Mitch Bennett (Maffra), Robbie McMillan (Outer East FNL)

Outs: Jesse Jackway (Traralgon)

Last season: Seventh (6 wins, 10 losses)

IN 2022, Heyfield finished the season closer to the bottom of the ladder than they did to the top four

With only six wins to their name, five of those wereagainst teams that finished below them, verifying their position.

Heyfield succumbed to tight losses against better opposition, which could have shaped their season much more differently if they wereonthe winning side.

They lost to Churchill by agoal, TTU by 15 points and Glengarryby12points.

Some distance has to be made to break into the next cluster of teams, after they finished 10 points below Sale City who

wereone rung above them on the ladder

It may seem weirdtocount this one as apositive note, but their thirds lost in the Grand Final last year,which does show signs of young talent coming through the ranks, which could help build growth in the coming years.

Upon his appointment as coach, Leigh Brown admitted coaching was something he always wanted to do.

Brown came back to the region and spent five years as the Gippsland Power coach, as well as spending two years as the Victorian CountryUnder 18s coach.

“I think Iampretty well-placed to have an impact on these young guys and build the club back up to playing finals footy sooner rather than later,” Brown told the Gippsland Times last year

“I have fortunately been through that process, and the club certainly supports the growth of any of its young players.”

Surrounding Clubs

Brendan Fevola could give them agood old revupwhen he visits the club for a function in May,ifthey see themselves in asimilar situation to 2022.

The key forwardcould bring some goals back to the club once again, as Rosedale only managed to hit three figures on three occasions; once each against the bottom three clubs.

“With the thirds winning the Grand Final last year,weare looking to them as the futureofthe club and hope they can develop to take us back into premiership contention,” senior coach Jeremy Reid said.

“Wehave atough draw to startthe year, but we will get stronger as the year goes on, and if we can win enough games early in the season, we will be dangerous in the back half of the year.”

Based offlast year,Rosedale would need to make amonumental leap to jump straight into final contention in 2023.

GORMANDALE

Coach: Chris Potalej

Ins: Tristan Salerno (Mirboo North), Jack Robertson (Mirboo North)

Outs: Mitch Harris (Glengarry), Tyson Kavanagh (Cowwarr)

Last season: 11th (1 win, 15 losses)

SALE CITY

Coach: Nathan Thomas

Ins: HarryKaandorp (South Australia), Elih Carter (Sale), Kyan Sellings (Sale), Matt Walker (South Australia), Joel Walton (VAFA), Daniel Howe (Bruthen)

Outs: Thomas Mann (Woodside), Bohdi Walker (Sale), Zac Angus (Sunraysia FNL), Zac Matlock (Queensland)

Last season: Sixth (8 wins, 7losses, 1 draw)

WOODSIDE

Coach: Michael Duncan

Ins: Thomas Mann (Sale City), Dan

Farmer (SouthernFNL), Shaun Cusack (SouthernFNL), Jack Schultz (NSW), Jack Avage (Ovens &Murray FNL), Stephen Lambert(Morwell East)

Outs: Will Broadbent (QLD), Chis Whiteoak (Boolarra), Brett Waddell (Bairnsdale), Dave Waddell (retired), Ben Matten (Yarram)

Last season: Third(11 wins, 8losses)

YARRAM

Coaches: Griffin Underwood

Ins: Dylan Garnham (Leongatha), Ben Mattern(Woodside), Levi Munns (Outer East FNL League), Jake McFarland (Toora), Thomas Sheedy (Tarwin), Chris Bruns (returning player), Dominic Thompson (Traralgon), Hayden Diehl (Ellinbank District FNL), Dylan Diehl (Ellinbank District FNL)

Outs: Corbin Sutherland (Warragul), Jack Gay

Last season: Fifth (12 wins, 5losses)

Tightly contestednetball season expected

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC and ZOE ASKEW

Woodside

Coach: Elizabeth Nicol

Last season: Premiers (16 wins, 3losses)

Out: Brittany Mustoe (pregnancy)

PREMIERSHIP playing coach Elizabeth ‘Libby’ Nicol will undoubtedly be hoping for arepeat of the 2022 season.

As the reigning champs enter the new season, Nicol is focused on fostering an inclusive yet challenging environment for her players.

The Wildcats will be without afamiliar face for the 2023 season, as goal attack Brittany Mustoe has announced she will be having ababy later this year

Young gun Taylah Buckely and 2022

NGFNL Grand Final’sbest on court

Caitlan Ponton will be players to watch this season.

Rosedale

Coach: Sarah Mayman

Last season: Runner-up (14 wins, 4 losses, 1draw)

In: Tilley Gordyn (Bairnsdale), Tayler Hardman (back from pregnancy), Caity Passalqua, Mish Clarke, Tilly Fox (all promoted)

Out: Bron Tebb (Traralgon), Emily McInnes, Misché Richards, Kirrily Bruce

THE chance for Rosedale playing coach Sarah Mayman to claim aconsecutive NGFNL premiership in her thirdyear as A Grade coach was ripped from her grasp, but last season is done and dusted. The Blues’ grand final loss only adding fuel to the fireasRosedale enters the 2023 season.

Aside from several new additions and losses to their AGrade side, Mayman isn’t making any significant changes for the 2023 season.

“Wewill continue working hardand pushing ourselves to that next level,” Mayman said.

Sale City

Coach: Jae Evans

Last season: Third(14 wins, 5losses)

In: Liv Ronchi (returning)

THE 2023 netball season marks Jae Evans’ sixth year as Sale City’sA Grade netball coach, coming offthe back of asuccessful 2022 season with

the Bulldogs, finishing fourth on the ladder,succumbing to Woodside in the preliminaryfinal.

“Last season, we had averynew and young team, so this season, our focus will be consolidating and building on the team structureand success from 2022 and to go one better and reach the Grand Final,” Evans said.

Glengarry

Coach: Pauline Little

Last season: Fourth (12 wins, 4losses, 1draw)

Out: Shayla Marsh, Belinda Winkler (for half the season with injury)

GLENGARRYhas reappointed Pauline Little after another strong season.

Still reeling from their straight-sets finals exit, Glengarryisaiming to prove themselves as areal contender this year Little says her group is using last season as motivation to take them to the next level.

NGFL Team of the Year shooters Tiffany Boatman and Megan Garlick have both stayed on.

Despite afew changes, Little is confident her award-winning shooter’sand team’sdefensive hustle will keep them competitive.

In arematch of last year’squalifying final, the Pies will face offagainst Rosedale first.

Yarram

Last Season:Fifth (9 wins, 8losses).

YARRAM proved to be astrong contender in the NGFNL 2022 season, finishing in the top five and progressing to finals.

Following asuccessful 2022 season, Rosedale, Woodside, Glengarry, and Sale City arethe 2023 season’smost promising sides; breaking into the top four will be achallenge for Yarram.

Heyfield

Coach: Emma Wojcinski

Last season: Sixth (7 wins, 9losses)

RETURNING as Heyfield AGrade coach for asecond year,Emma Wojcinski is dead-set on finishing the 2023 season in the top five.

“The goal is always to win, but most importantly,itwill be to place in the top five, along with developing the youngsters and working as ateam to supportall the

coaches and players that areapartofour club,” Wojcinski said.

Churchill

Coach: Katrina Hutchinson

Last season: Seventh (6 wins, 10 losses)

In: Louie Patten (MDU), Tayla Beyer (back from pregnancy), Destiny Mackrell (Moe), Oakley Riley (promoted)

Out: Charlie Chila (Morwell East)

Finishing in seventh place last year was an unexpected result for the Cougars. Having two players departthe side early due to pregnancy made wins hardto come by

Adding versatility to the side is the returning Louie Patten. Destiny Mackrell comes over from Moe and will work alongside Tayla Beyer back from pregnancy and Patten to from a formidable attacking line up.

The Cougar’sdefence will be amped up as young Oakley Riley,last year’sB Grade best and fairest, also breaks into the side.

Katrina Hutchinson returns for her second year as Cougars coach.

With averyversatile and complete lineup, Churchill will be striving to be back on the winner’slist.

Cowwarr

Coach: Eden Bourke

Last season: Eighth (6 wins, 10 losses)

CONSISTENCY is the Cowwarr motto. Reappointed coach Eden Bourke will keep the Saints almost unchanged. Cowwarr will have the benefit of some consistency and the ability to improve on their efforts from last year

The experienced and tightly knit line-up for the Saints in 2023 will hope to climb the ladder Bourke is certain that the maturity and experience of her side will help them get over the line.

Yallourn Yallourn North

Coach: Patricia Chapman

Last season: Ninth (4 wins, 12 losses)

In: Chloe and Hayley Huizer (Yinnar), Amy Buhagiar (Gormandale)

CULTURE of change will be the key for YallournYallournNorth.

The Jets have had abig preseason since appointing Patricia Chapman as their new

head coach for the upcoming season. This will be Chapman’ssecond year at the club, having played last year until she suffered anasty knee injurylate in the season.

YYN is looking at aseason of change and growth with the addition of fresh faces to the senior side.

Chapman has recruited the Yinnar sisters Chloe and Hayley Huizer,along with Gormandale’sshooter Amy Buhagiar

The new Jets face ahuge challenge, taking on the reigning premiers in Woodside first up.

TTU

Coach: Bec Fromberg

Last season: 10th (4 wins, 12 losses)

Bec Fromberg has taken over the TTU coaching role, under the mentorship of head coach and mother Shirley Fromberg.

The young Bombers’ side will do well to learnfromsuch abig name in netball.

Shirley Fromberg has an extensive 24 years of experience ranging from VNL, school championships, and AGrade. Expect to see alot of work done with the Bombers.

Though it might not reflect in match results, it’ll be ayear of personal growth and development from TTU.

In welcomed news for all teams, the courts at Tyers have been resurfaced, making for better and safer match and warmupconditions.

Gormandale

Coach: Heidi Gaudion

Last season: 11th (1 win, 15 losses).

YOUNG Heidi Gaudion has big plans for the Tigers in her first year in the coach’s role.

Gaudion, who won Gormandale’s best and fairest last year,brings new motivation and drive to the side.

Opting for youth over experience, Gaudion aims to use speed to her advantage.

With only one win from last season and only three players returning from the previous year,Gaudion will have her work cut out.

The new,young Tiger side will be put to the test, taking on an experienced Cowwarr in the first round.

Aneyeonindividualdevelopmentin2023

By TOM HAYES

THE newly-named Coates Talent League,formerly known as the NAB League, is under way, with many promising locals hoping to showcase their talents to get themselves ontoanAFL or AFLWlist.

At Gippsland Power,their facilities continue to be one of the best in the Coates Talent League, with two ovals (one of which is synthetic), indoor facilities, recoveryand development personnel.

One thing that has changed since 2022 is the personnel and increase of it, as morehands on deck will hopefully lift a load from the coach’sshoulders.

The Gippsland Power Boys arecoming offthe back of astrong 2022 campaign, wherethey finished on top of the ladder, with a10-3 record.

Coach Rhett McLennan hopes to establish asimilar brand of football in 2023, with the squad that remains.

“Our top-end talent is really promising,” he said.

“Wehope to provide as many opportunities to some of the boys, and hope to display some good senior form.”

From aLatrobe Valley standpoint, eyes areonMorwell’sTew Jiath, brother of Hawthorn’sChangkuoth, who also shows plenty of promise across half back, according to McLennan.

Deputy vice-captain Cooper Brown,

from Traralgon, is suretoprovide some flair offhalf back too, and on the wing. Rosedale’sHarper Fox, akey defender, is described as “good in the air” by McLennan, and will hope to establish himself as one of the best young defenders in the country.

The girls had atroubling season as a team in 2022, playing nine games and losing all of them, but managed to get three girls drafted to the top league. Despite this, newly-appointed coach Nathan Boyd believes the club can still prioritise individual development.

“The overwhelming and consistent messaging is around process over outcome,” Boyd said.

“While most footy clubs areall about winning premierships and being successful on awin-loss factor, we’rereally mindful of individual development.”

In 2023, they will not only be hoping to improve as asquad, but also get more girls into the AFLW.

Gippsland Power saw two girls from our region picked up by Box Hill Hawks, twin sisters Alisha and Elise Molesworth from

Newborough, two highly touted players. “Those two have been really impressive down there,” Boyd said.

Boyd wants the girls to be achieving the most that they can, whether that be at AFLW, VFLWorlocal level.

“Wewant them to be the best player they can, so if we can get them playing VFLW, that’sagreat thing. If they can get into the AFLWprogram that’sfantastic,” Boyd said.

WOMEN’S AND YOUTH GIRLS FOOTBALL | 2023 PREVIEW

Always room for improvement

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

LatrobeValleydominated women’sfooty inseason

2022.

Moe-Newborough was too strong for the field, beating Lindenow South in the Grand Final 6.5 (41) to 2.2 (14).

Louie Patten has been appointed Moe-Newborough coach for this season, and will hope to lead the side oanother flag in her first year in the role.

Patten has atrophy cabinet like no other, having won best on the ground in the 2022 Grand Final, to go with aswag of other awards.

In the same year,she won the club best and fairest, league best and fairest, and was granted ateam of the year selection.

In the Under 18’scompetition, the

Traralgon Youth Girls wiped the floor with Boisdale-Briagolong, winning the decider 12.17 (89) to no score.

The Female Football Gippsland League has not confirmed astartdate, but sources say the 2023 season is suspected to commence in late-April.

Training has begun at most clubs, with great participation numbers, with them all eagerly waiting the announcement of the season start.

Since women’sfooty started in 2012 it has expanded to reach all across Gippsland, with 14 youth girl teams and three women’steams competing.

As women’sfooty continues to grow,the Valley continues to produce great female footy talent.

Anumber of players have made their

way onto AFLWand VFLWlists. Among the cohortare Morwell local Casey Sherriff, who played in Melbourne’spremiership last season, and Traralgon’sLily-Rose Williamson, who was drafted to Essendon last year

Rhett McLennan,backfor another season coaching GippslandPower

Bailey Humphrey,from Moe,became the latest LatrobeValleyplayertobedrafted, when selectedbyGoldCoast last year

Moe-Newborough willbeout to secureback-tobackFemaleFootball Gippsland flags.

Morwell’sCasey Sherriff,backhome last year afterplaying in Melbourne’spremiership.

Sh iff b k h

Umpires to celebrate 70 year milestone

By TOM HAYES

This year happens to also be the 70-year anniversaryfor the Latrobe Valley Umpires Association too.

Umpires train, play their partonthe field and celebrate just like the footballers.

LVUA umpires, Ryan McLeod and Ryan Morrow wereable to umpireaHawthorn Hawks intraclub match, when the AFL club visited the region earlier this year

If that is anything to go by,itisfair to say the surrounding leagues areingood hands, if they can be trusted at an AFL standard.

Just as thereare names in Gippsland that have gone on to play at AFL level, some have gone on to umpireaswell.

Umpires from the Latrobe Valley that have made their way to AFL ranks include Tim Charles, Colin Hood, Justin Stephenson, Darren Fletcher and James Fleming.

Arguably the biggest name in AFL umpiring however comes from Leongatha in the formofMatt Stevic.

Stevic has umpired in everyAFL grand final since 2014, and has umpired more finals than anyone in the historyofthe game.

Most involved in local football have developed some sortofaffinity with

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

IT’S time to getbacktoearly weekend mornings in below freezing temperatures foryour footy-mad kids.

Junior footballers from across Central Gippsland Junior Football League and Traralgon District Junior Football League will be counting down the days until their

umpires over the years, and generally know alot of them on afirst name or nickname basis.

Names such as ‘Budgie’ (Steve Buhagiar), ‘Moose’ (Scott Moorhouse) and ‘Smithy’ (Mark Smith) arefamiliar faces in umpiring circles.

Umpires chalk up milestones just as players -albeit with many moregames. Rob Tatterson walked out for game number 1000 last year,while Don Wight is still going, getting up to 1300 last year

To this end, those who have been around for awhile also know what they areand aren’tgoing to get from certain umpires, which causes partofpre-game conversations to go something along the lines of “you know what this bloke is like”.

For the umpires themselves, many are former players looking to get adifferent perspective on the game, some areold timers wanting to stay involved, while some aresimply footy nerds who can’t get enough of it.

The LVUA and Sale Umpires Association cover the leagues in our region, from juniors to the Gippsland League, whereas SUA covers the North Gippsland Football-Netball League and surrounds.

But with that in mind, demand for umpiring is low,and numbers areneeded to keep the game going, as some games may be resorted to just two field umpires, with clubs having to provide boundary and goal umpires on occasion, if need be.

Umpireassociations across Gippsland arealways on the look out for new recruits, to which they train and attend games as normal players do, and some get paid to do so.

On the LVUA Facebook page, they posted an advertisement video, on the hunt for new recruits.

People who areinterested in becoming an umpirecan call 0413 076 555, or email their expression of interest to lvumpires@gmail.com.

Use the contact information above to enquireabout training times and how to get started in an umpiring career

long-awaited season starts.

TDJFL will startonSunday,April 23, while CGJFL will starttheir season aweek later on April 30.

The CGJFL has undergone abrand change with acleaner green logo.

So too have YallournNorth JFC, opting to run out as the YallournNorth Jets to match their senior side.

The CGJFL will also welcome Corner Inlet Stingrays into the competition this year

Having had afull 2022 season, both leagues will be eagerly waiting to see what 2023 has in store.

The Combined Saints will be donning anewly designed logo, while Yinnar JFC will be welcomed into the Traralgon league for the first time in 2023.

The junior level is wherekids develop a love for the game.

Not everyone wants to be the next Scott Pendlebury, but these juniors staying active and having fun is all that matters.

Of course, these sporting clubs would not run without the help of the wonderful volunteers, who deserve special thanks for all their work and supportduring the junior football season.

FOOTBALL can’t be played without the umpires -simple as that, and theywould be just as excited forfooty season to be back.

Local umpireRob Tatterson brought up his1000th game last year

SteveEsler,500 gamesand counting.

ALINTAENERGY AENERGY | GIPPSLAND LEAGUE | 2023 DRAW

Round 1, April 1

Traralgon vLeongatha

Moe vMorwell

Wonthaggi vSale

Bairnsdale vMaffra (T)

Drouin vWarragul

(Sunday,April 2)

Round 2, April 15

Leongatha vWonthaggi

Maffra vTraralgon

Warragul vMoe

Morwell vDrouin

Sale vBairnsdale

(Sunday,April 16)

Round 3, April 22

Wonthaggi vMoe

Warragul vLeongatha

Bairnsdale v Drouin

Sale vMaffra

Traralgon vMorwell (N)

Round 4, April 29

Drouin vTraralgon

Morwell vWarragul

Maffra vWonthaggi

Moe vBairnsdale

Leongatha vSale

Round 5, May 6

Traralgon vWarragul

Wonthaggi vDrouin

Maffra vMorwell

Leongatha vBairnsdale

Sale vMoe

Round 6, May 13

Morwell vLeongatha

Warragul vMaffra

Moe vTraralgon

Drouin vSale

Bairnsdale vWonthaggi

Round 7, May 27

Bairnsdale vTraralgon

Sale vMorwell

Wonthaggi vWarragul

Leongatha vMoe

Maffra vDrouin

Round 8, June 3

Warragul vSale

Morwell vBairnsdale

Traralgon vWonthaggi

Maffra vLeongatha

Drouin vMoe

Round 9, June 10

Bairnsdale vWarragul

Wonthaggi vMorwell

Sale vTraralgon

Leongatha vDrouin

Moe vMaffra

Round 10, June 17

Traralgon vDrouin

Warragul vMorwell

Wonthaggi vMaffra

Bairnsdale vMoe

Sale vLeongatha

Round 11, June 24

Maffra vSale

Morwell vTraralgon

Drouin vBairnsdale

Moe vWonthaggi

Leongatha vWarragul

Round 12, July 8

Wonthaggi vLeongatha

Traralgon vMaffra

Morwell vMoe

Warragul vDrouin (Sunday,July 9)

Bairnsdale vSale (Sunday,July 9)

Round 13, July 15

Leongatha vTraralgon

Sale vWonthaggi

Moe vWarragul

Drouin vMorwell

Maffra vBairnsdale

Round 14, July 22

Warragul vTraralgon

Drouin vWonthaggi

Morwell vMaffra

Bairnsdale vLeongatha

Moe vSale

Round 15, July 29

Leongatha vMorwell

Maffra vWarragul

Traralgon vMoe

Sale vDrouin

Wonthaggi vBairnsdale

Round 16, August 5&12

Warragul vWonthaggi

Saturday,August 5)

Morwell vSale

(Saturday,August 5)

Moe vLeongatha

(Saturday,August 12)

Drouin vMaffra

(Saturday,August 12)

Traralgon vBairnsdale

(Saturday,August 12)

Round 17, August 19

Sale vWarragul

Bairnsdale vMorwell

Wonthaggi vTraralgon

Drouin vLeongatha

Maffra vMoe

Round 18, August 26

Warragul vBairnsdale

Morwell vWonthaggi

Traralgon vSale

Leongatha vMaffra

Moe vDrouin

Finals Series

QUALIFYING FINAL (Saturday,September 2)

ELIMINATION FINAL (Sunday,September 3)

2ND SEMI FINAL (Saturday,September 9)

1ST SEMI FINAL (Sunday,September 10)

PRELIMINARYFINAL (Saturday,September 16)

GRAND FINAL (Saturday,September 23)

TTMI | MID GIPPSLAND FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE | 2023 DRAW

Round 1, April 22

Morwell East vHill End

Tarwin vMDU

Toora vMirboo North

Boolarra vThorpdale

Stony Creek vFish Creek

Yinnar vNewborough

BYE -Foster

Round 2, April 29

Foster vTarwin

Hill End vToora

MDU vBoolarra

Mirboo North vStony Creek

Thorpdale vYinnar

Fish Creek vNewborough

BYE -Morwell East

Round 3, May 6

Toora vMorwell East

Boolarra vFoster

Stony Creek vHill End

Yinnar vMDU

Newborough vMirboo North

Fish Creek vThorpdale

BYE -Tarwin

Round 4, May 13

Tarwin vBoolarra

Morwell East vStony Creek

Foster vYinnar

Hill End vNewborough

MDU vFish Creek

Mirboo North vThorpdale

BYE -Toora

Round 5, May 20

Stony Creek vToora

Yinnar vTarwin

Newborough vMorwell East

Fish Creek vFoster

Thorpdale vHill End

Mirboo North vMDU

BYE -Boolarra

Round 6, May 27

Boolarra vYinnar

Toora vNewborough

Tarwin vFish Creek

Morwell East vThorpdale

Foster vMirboo North

Hill End vMDU

BYE -Stony Creek

Round 7, June 3

Newborough vStony Creek

Fish Creek vBoolarra

Thorpdale vToora

Mirboo North vTarwin

MDU vMorwell East

Hill End vFoster

BYE -Yinnar

Round 8, June 10

Yinnar vFish Creek

Stony Creek vThorpdale

Boolarra vMirboo North

Toora vMDU

Tarwin vHill End

Morwell East vFoster (April 15)

BYE –Newborough

Round 9, June 17

Thorpdale vNewborough

Mirboo North vYinnar

MDU vStony Creek

Hill End vBoolarra

Foster vToora

Morwell East vTarwin

BYE -Fish Creek

Round 10, June 24

Fish Creek vMirboo North

Newborough vMDU

Yinnar vHill End

Stony Creek vFoster

Boolarra vMorwell East

Toora vTarwin

BYE -Thorpdale

Round 11, July 1

MDU vThorpdale

Hill End vFish Creek

Foster vNewborough

Morwell East vYinnar

Tarwin vStony Creek

Toora vBoolarra

BYE -Mirboo North

Round 12, July 8

Mirboo North vHill End

Thorpdale vFoster

Fish Creek vMorwell East

Newborough vTarwin

Yinnar vToora

Stony Creek vBoolarra

BYE -MDU

Round 13, July 15

Foster vMDU

Morwell East vMirboo North

Tarwin vThorpdale

Toora vFish Creek

Boolarra vNewborough

Stony Creek vYinnar

BYE -Hill End

Round 14, July 22

Hill End vMorwell East

MDU vTarwin

Mirboo North vToora

Thorpdale vBoolarra

Newborough vYinnar

BYE -Fish Creek, Foster, Stony Creek

Round 15, July 29

Tarwin vFoster

Toora vHill End

Boolarra vMDU

Fish Creek vStony Creek

Yinnar vThorpdale

BYE -Mirboo North, Morwell East, Newborough

Round 16, August 5

Morwell East vToora

Foster vFish Creek

MDUv Mirboo North

Newborough vBoolarra

Thorpdale vStony Creek

BYE -Hill End, Tarwin, Yinnar

Round 17, August 12

Stony Creek vMorwell East

Boolarra vTarwin

Yinnar vFoster

Newborough vHill End

Mirboo North vFish Creek

BYE -MDU, Thorpdale, Toora

Round 18, August 19

Tarwin vNewborough

Fish Creek vYinnar

Foster vStony Creek

MDU vToora

Thorpdale vMorwell East

Hill End vMirboo North

BYE -Boolarra

Finals Series

WEEK 1 (August 26-27)

WEEK 2 (September 2-3)

PRELIMINARYFINAL (September 9)

GRAND FINAL (September 16)

$150 WILLS & POWERSOFATTORNEY

Round 1, April 1

Rosedale vGlengarry

YYN vWoodside

Churchill vYarram

Sale City vTTU

Cowwarr vGormandale

BYE -Heyfield

Round 2, April 7and April 15

Yarram vYYN

(Friday,April 7)

Churchill vRosedale

(Saturday,April 15)

TTU vWoodside

(Saturday,April 15)

Gormandale vSale City

(Saturday,April 15)

Glengarryv Heyfield

(Saturday,April 15)

BYE -Cowwarr

Round 3, April 22

Heyfield vChurchill

Rosedale vYYN

Yarram vTTU

Woodside vGormandale

Sale City vCowwarr

BYE -Glengarry

Round 4, April 29

YYN vHeyfield

TTU vRosedale

Gormandale vYarram

Cowwarr vWoodside

Churchill vGlengarry

BYE -Sale City

Round 5, May 6

Heyfield vTTU

Yarram vCowwarr

Woodside vSale City

Glengarryv YYN

BYE -Churchill, Rosedale, Gormandale

Round 6, May 13

Gormandale vHeyfield

Cowwarr vRosedale

Sale City vYarram

TTU vGlengarry

YYN vChurchill

BYE -Woodside

Round 7, May 20

Heyfield vCowwarr

Rosedale vSale City

Yarram vWoodside

Glengarryv Gormandale

Churchill vTTU

BYE -YYN

Round 8, May 27

Sale City vHeyfield

Woodside vRosedale

Cowwarr vGlengarry

Gormandale vChurchill

TTU vYYN

BYE -Yarram

Round 9, June 3

Heyfield vWoodside

Rosedale vYarram

Glengarryv Sale City

Churchill vCowwarr

YYN vGormandale

BYE -TTU

Round 10, June 17

Yarram vHeyfield

Woodside vGlengarry

Sale City vChurchill

Cowwarr vYYN

Gormandale vTTU

BYE -Rosedale

Round 11, June 24

Heyfield vRosedale

Glengarryv Yarram

Churchill vWoodside

YYN vSale City

TTU vCowwarr

BYE -Gormandale

Round 12, July 1

Glengarryv Rosedale

Yarram vChurchill

Woodside vYYN

TTU vSale City

Gormandale vCowwarr

BYE -Heyfield

Round 13, July 8

Heyfield vGlengarry

Rosedale vChurchill

YYN vYarram

Woodside vTTU

SaleCity vGormandale

BYE -Cowwarr

Round 14, July 15

Churchill vHeyfield

YYN vRosedale

Gormandale vWoodside

Cowwarr vSale City

BYE -Glengarry, TTU, Yarram

Round 15, July 22

Heyfield vYYN

Rosedale vTTU

Yarram vGormandale

Woodside vCowwarr

Glengarryv Churchill

BYE -Sale City

Round 16, July 29

TTU vHeyfield

Rosedale vGormandale

Cowwarr vYarram

SaleCity vWoodside

YYN vGlengarry

BYE -Churchill

Round 17, August 5

Heyfield vGormandale

Rosedale vCowwarr

Yarram vSale City

Glengarryv TTU

Churchill vYYN

BYE –Woodside

Round 18, August 12

Cowwarr vHeyfield

Sale City vRosedale

Woodside vYarram

Gormandale v Glengarry

TTU vChurchill

BYE -YNN

Finals Series

QUALIFYING FINAL (Saturday,August 19)

ELIMINATION FINAL (Sunday,August 20)

2ND SEMI FINAL (Saturday,August 26)

1ST SEMI FINAL (Sunday,August 27)

PRELIMINARYFINAL (Saturday,September 2)

GRAND FINAL (Saturday,September 9)

Saturday,

April 1

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 WeekendBreakfast.

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

12.30 VanDer Valk. (Mav,R) 2.00 Death In Paradise.(Mv,R) 3.00 Scottish Vets Down Under.(PG, R)

3.30 Magical Land Of Oz. (R)

4.30 Landline. (R)

5.00 TheTruth About: Boosting Your Immune System (PG, R)

6.00 Back In Time ForThe Corner Shop: 1970s. (PG, R) Part 4of5

7.00 ABCNews. Takesa look at today’stop stories.

7.30 TheLarkins. (PG)Maand thechildrentry to convince Pop to takethe courtcase seriously,but he has other things on his mind.

8.20 Under TheVines. (PG) As preparations for the showcase continue,Tippy,Gus and Daisytry to put Louis back on track.

9.05 Grantchester (Mv, R) After amemberofWill’scongregation is found murdered, it turns out he might havemisjudged the victim.

9.55 Miniseries: In Our Blood. (Mls, R) Part 2of4

10.50 Traces. (Madls, R) McKinven urges Emma to stop sleuthing

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

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 JSchwanke’s Life In Bloom. 10.05 Love Your Home And Garden.(PG,R) 11.00 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch.

2.00 FigureSkating. ISU Figure World Championships. Highlights. 3.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Volta aCatalunya.

4.30 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 4.35 Pluto: Back From The Dead. (R) 5.45 Lost Gold Of World WarII. (PGal, R)

6.30 SBS World News

7.30 TheWorld’sMostBeautiful

Landscapes: TheAmazon. (Final, PG) Narrated by Robert Lindsay

8.30 Charles: TheNew King. (PGa, R) Part 1of2.Exploresthe important and pivotal moments in thelifeofKing Charles III.

10 25 Planet SexWith Cara

Delevingne: Monogamish. (Mals) CaraDelevingne looks at monogamy

11.15 Outlander (MA15+) Roger comes to Henri-Christian’s aid.

12.25 Germinal. (Premiere, Masv)

1.20 Bamay. (R)

1.59 Going Places With ErnieDingo (PG, R)

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

6.00 NBCToday [VIC]HomeShopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 TheMorning Show. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. TheStarChampionships.Day 1and GoldenMile Race Day.

5.00 SevenNews At 5.

5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Ababy-faced bandit goesonthe run.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Football. AFL.Round 3. St Kilda vEssendon. From theMCG

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

11.00 MOVIE: Takers. (2010,Mlv,R) AManhattan detectivepursuesa gang of thieveswho specialise in elaborate heists. ChrisBrown, Paul Walker,Hayden Christensen.

1.15 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship.Round 2. Melbourne SuperSprint. Day 1. Highlights.

2.30 HomeShopping. (R)

4.00 Get Arty (R)Artists complete art projects to encourage kids of allages to get creative.

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

7TWO (72, 62)

Championships. Day 1and Golden Mile RaceDay 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The HighlandVet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country 9.30 IEscaped To TheCountry. 10.30 Cliveden:AVery British CountryHouse. 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Getaway.(PG,R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair

6.00 Nine NewsSaturday

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) The team tacklestwo neighbouring homes.

8.30 MOVIE: Wonder Woman

(2017,Mav,R)AnAmazonianprincess leaves her isolated island home to help end World WarI.Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright.

11.10 MOVIE: Good Kill. (2014, Malsv,R) Adrone pilot questions the ethics of his job. EthanHawke.

1.00 From Hell: Caught On Camera. (Mlv)

1.30 Australia’s TopTen Of Everything. (PG, R)

2.00 TheIncredible Journey Presents (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30

HelpingHands.(PG,R)

9GEM (92,81)

6am Morning Programs.

11.30 Seaway 12.30pm MOVIE: The Scarlet Blade. (1963, PG) 2.15 MOVIE: The PrideAnd The Passion. (1957,PG) 5.00 Rugby Union. SuperW.Round 2. ACTBrumbies vNSW Waratahs. 7.00 Rugby Union Super Rugby Pacific.Round 6. ACTBrumbies vNSW Waratahs. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: Hang ’Em High.(1968,M) 12.05am Late Programs.

6am Children’s Programs.

2pm MOVIE: Pokémon: Arceus AndThe Jewel Of Life. (2009) 4.00 Motor Racing.ABB FIAFormula E World C’ship.São

6.00 10 News First.

7.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) Jessie rescuesanAmerican tourist.

7.30 Blue Bloods. (Mv) Jamie helps aformer officer

8.30 CSI: Vegas. (PGl) Catherine’s day off with her granddaughter gets interrupted when theteam must investigateacase involving awomanwho haswoken from afour-year coma and remembers details from the night her sister died.

9.30 NCIS (Mav, R) TheNCIS probes the death of aride-share driver who wasfound after acar accident.

10.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mav,R)A navy deserter comes outofhiding.

11.30 Bull. (Ma,R)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

Sunday, April

6.30 Compass: TheLove Of My Life. (PGa)

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Final, Ma) Aprestigious chess match ends in murder

8.30 Miniseries: In Our Blood. (Mals) Part 3of4.Anew wave of prejudiceagainst the gaycommunity leads to aspike in violence.

9.20 CloseToMe. (Mals) Jo seeks help from asupportgroup

10.10 Finding Alice. (Mls, R)

10.55 MotherFatherSon. (MA15+dlns, R)

12.00 Smother (Mal, R)

12.50 Road To Now.(Mav, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 The Heights. (PG, R)

4.15 The RecordingStudio.(PG, R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Ancient Egypt: Top7 Pyramids. Explores ancient Egypt’spyramids.

8.30 Easter Island: TheAncient Builders. (R) Exploresthe construction techniquesused by the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island

9.30 Muhammad Ali. (Mav,R)Part 1of4

Takesalook at one of the best-known sports figuresofthe 20thcentury: Muhammad Ali.

12.00 24 Hours In Emergency: PayItForward. (Ma, 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 Al JazeeraNews.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 This Is Your Life: Rebecca Gibney. (PGav,R)Rebecca Gibney’slife is celebrated

8.50 Code 1: TheChilders Backpacker Fire. (Mav) Takesalook at the 2000 fire at the Childers Palace Backpacker Hostel in Queensland.

9.50 Manhunt:NurseKiller. (Masv, R) Alook at the manhunt for RobertAdams.

10.50 Born To Kill?Hadden Clark“The CrossDressing Cannibal”. (MA15+av)

11.50 Autopsy USA (Mad, R)

12.50 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship.Round 2. Melbourne SuperSprint.Day 2. Highlights

6.00 Nine NewsSunday.

7.00 Married At FirstSight (PGls) It’stime forthe reunion dinner party

8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysingand uncovering the issuesaffecting allAustralians.

9.40 Nine News Late. Alook at the latest news andevents.

10.10 Australian Crime Stories: TheXFactor (Mv,R)A look at thecase of Nicola Gobbo

11.15 TheFirst48: Monster (MA15+alv)

12.05 Law&Order: Organized Crime. (Madv,R)

1.00 TheGarden Gurus. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa)

6.30 TheSundayProject. Panellists dissect, digest and reconstitute the daily news, events and hottest topics.

7.30 I’mA Celebrity… Get Me Out OfHere! (Return)A group of Aussie celebritiescompete in atest of survival in the wilds of Africa.

9.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv,R)When a navy petty officer is murdered, Jane andthe team investigatewhile also protecting the victim’s friend.

10.30 FBI. (Mv,R)The team realises it has across-countryserial killer on its hands, and the case has ties to Isobel’sfather and his hotel.

11.30 TheSundayProject (R) Alookatthe day’snews.

12.30 Home Shopping (R)

Monday, April 3

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Landline.(R) 11.00

AntiquesRoadshow.(R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Under The Vines. (PG, R) 1.45

Grantchester.(Final, Mv,R) 2.30 Back Roads.

(R) 3.00 Escape From The City. (R)

4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.00 Anh’sBrush With Fame. (PG,R)

5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 TheDrum

7.00 ABC News

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 Australian Story. Presented by Leigh Sales.

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

9.15 Media Watch (PG) Paul Barry takesalook at thelatestissues affecting media consumers.

9.35 Q+A. Public affairs program.

10.35 China Tonight. (Final, R)

11.10 ABC LateNews.

11.25 TheBusiness. (R)

11.40 Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala. (R)

1.45 Rage.(MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 4.30 TheDrum. (R) 5.30

7.30.(R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.20 Paddington Station 24/7.(PGa, R) 10.10 Rick Steves’Europe. (Premiere) 11.10 Susan Calman’s

6.00 SevenNews.

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

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 Britain By Beach: Wales. (PG)Part 4of4

8.30 Irish Road Trip With Miriam Margolyes. (M) Miriam Margolyes’ road trip takes her across Ireland in order to incorporate three major historicalevents.

9.30 24 Hours In Emergency:Labour Of Love (Mal, R) Acompilation of stories from King’s College Hospitalfocusing on the love between patients andtheir families.

10.25 SBS WorldNewsLate

10.55 Infiniti. (Final, MA15+v) Isaak confirms the killer’s identity

12.00 Beforeigners. (Malsv,R)

3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R)

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

7.00 Home And Away (PGa)

7.30 HighwayPatrol. (PGad) Documents thework of thehighway patrol

8.30 MOVIE: Crazy Rich Asians. (2018,Ml, R) Auniversity professor gets ashock whenshe agreestoattend a weddinginSingapore with her boyfriend where she will meethis family for the first time, onlytodiscover they are one of the richest in the country.Constance Wu,Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh

11.00 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.30 HowToLook Good Naked. (Man,R)

12.30 Kochie’s BusinessBuilders. (R) [VIC]HomeShopping.

1.00 LastChanceLearners (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBCToday

5.00 SevenEarly News. 5.30 Sunrise

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 MarriedAtFirst Sight. (Final, Mals) It is time for the reunion finale.

9.00 RPA. (PGm) Awoman undergoes marathon surgery to remove a recurrence of arare type of cancer

10.00 FootyClassified. (M) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

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

11.25 TheEqualizer (Mv,R)

12.15 Murder In ASmall Town. (MA15+av,R)

1.10 Hello SA

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

7.30 I’mACelebrity… Get Me OutOf Here! The12 celebrities havesurvived theirfirst night in camp, but thereisstill onemore personality to hitthe jungle.

9.00 Would ILie To You? Australia. (Ml) Twoteams, including Cal Wilson, DilrukJayasinha, GeorgieCarroll and Jock Zonfrillo,gohead-to-head.

10.00 Ghosts. (PGad) Elias Woodstone returns to the manor

10.30 BestOfThe Sydney Comedy Festival. (MA15+ls, R) Performances from the Sydney Comedy Festival.

12.00 TheProject (R)

1.00 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBSMornings.

9.00 ThePrinces AndThe Press. (PG, R) Part 2of2

Part 5of5

9.55 Stuff TheBritish Stole: Jewel Of Denial. (PG, R) PresentedbyMarc Fennell.

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.40 TheBusiness. (R)

10.55 Four Corners (R)

11.45 Media Watch. (PG, R)

12.00 MotherFatherSon. (MA15+dlns, 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)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Who Do YouThink You Are? US: BryanCranston.

8.30 Insight. Presented by Kumi Taguchi.

9.30 Dateline: Scotland’s Airbnb Crackdown. Alook at the issue of short-term lets.

10.00 SBSWorld NewsLate

10.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (PG, R)

11.10 Manayek. (Madlv)

12.05 La Unidad.(MA15+av,R) 2.05

Miniseries: The SalisburyPoisonings. (Mal, R)

3.55 Mastermind Australia.(R) 4.55

DestinationFlavour:SingaporeBitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World EnglishNewsMorning. 5.30

ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home And Away (PGas)

7.30 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGlv) Sketch comedy series.

8.30 TheGood Doctor (Ma) Shaun seeks legal representation and puts his faith in a promising, younglawyer who has OCD

9.30 Quantum Leap (PGa) Benfindshimself in 2012 helping a family’stransgender daughter who dreams of playing basketball.

10.30 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.00 Police Custody USA (Malv) Alook at the Kansas City police department.

12.00 MOVIE: Farewell,MyLove (2000,MA15+lv,R)Gabrielle Fitzpatrick.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBCToday.

5.00 SevenEarly News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 FrozenPlanet II: Frozen Worlds. (Return,PGa)Explores thefrozenworlds that exist across the globe andlooks at the animals that call them home.

8.40 To Be Advised.

10.40 Nine News Late. Alook at the latest newsand events.

11.10 Chicago Med (MA15+am) Daniel and April takeonamysterious patient.

12.00 Court Cam. (Mlv) Ajudge helps subdue an unruly defendant

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 ACurrent Affair (R)

5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today.

6.30 TheProject. Thehostsand guestpanellists takealookatthe day’snews, events and hot topics.

7.30 I’mACelebrity…Get Me OutOf Here! Thecelebrities are still adjusting to camplife andnow come face to face with thejungle’s most terrifying snakes.

9.00 NCIS. (PGv)The NCIS team jumps into motion to investigate who is responsible for apotential bioterror attack at astrip mall parking garage.Knight’sfather deals with ahealth scare while in Japan.

11.00 TheProject. (R) The hosts andguest panelliststakealookatthe day’snews, events and hot topics.

12.00 TheLate ShowWithStephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBSMornings.

New partnership to deliver more kindergarten places to region

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

FAMILIES in Latrobe City can look forward to more kindergartenplaces and modern facilities thanks to anew Building Blocks Partnership betweenLatrobe City Council and the state government.

On Friday, March 24 Minister for Early Childhood and Pre-Prep IngridStitt announced the $3.68 million partnership, which will fund two kindergarten projects and generate over 100 new places for local families attending Three-Year-Old Kindergarten.

Thepartnership involves $680,000 to upgrade and expand Parklane Preschool,increasing the kindergarten’s capacity to provide up to 60 places for children attending threeand four-year-old kindergarten. Work will start later this year, with the renovated kindergarten to open in 2024.

Afurther $3 million will fund anew three-room modularkindergarten accommodating more than 100 places as part of the Pax Hill Kindergarten in Traralgon. The new facility is scheduled to open in 2025.

With more than 150 kindergarten places available at both services in coming years, the increased capacity will help meet demand for early years places in Traralgon and ensure more families can access aquality local kindergarten.

Families across the Valley will also benefit from this Building Blocks Partnership, with planning under way for future kindergarten expansion

projects in the region.

Member for Eastern Victoria HarrietShing said:

“Ourinvestments in new and upgraded kinders acrossthe Valley is part of makingsure that our littlest locals have the very best opportunities and thewecreatethe placesthat are needed -now and as our communities continue to grow.”

With 30 locations announced, including Yallourn North and Glengarry, growing families can look forwardtomore kindergarten and childcareoptions in their local area by 2028.

Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O’Callaghansaid more places opening kindergartens provides great opportunities for childhood development.

“Theearlyyears of achild’s lifeare crucial for their healthy growth, wellbeingand development throughout life. Through the support of the Victorian government, more children will now be able to access kindergarten services in Latrobe City which will support and nurture our youngest community members in their formative years,” said the Mayor.

“We know the importance of early education and thank the Victorian Government for investing in ourchildren’s future by providing more opportunities for families to access kindergarten services in Latrobe.”

Learn more aboutCouncil’s kindergarten services at latrobe.vic.gov.au/kindergarten

Business Guide

STORMCOAT ROOFING STORM

STORMCOAT Roofing is afamily owned and operated roofing business servicing the entireGippsland region.

Theyspecialise in tiled roof replacements,restorations and small roof fixings

StormCoat Roofing offers a24/7 roof leak service,perfect forwhen drips occur due to storms and wet weather

Is that roof or driveway proving tough to clean?

Then call on the StormCoat team, whose high-pressure cleanerswill have it looking even betterthannew

StormCoat Roofing areadept when it comes to your gutters.

Forget about getting up there to clean them, when StormCoat Roofing can do the job foryou, or even better, install state-of-the-art gutterguards

StormCoat Roofing also handle anyrebedding or repointing work, which can help yousavemoney

on costlyrepairsinthe futureand prolong the lifespan of your roof

Theteam pride themselves on greatcustomer service and satisfaction, with afocus on keeping your investment and family safe.

Call StormCoat Roofing forafree quoteon0413537 569.

Youcan also email stormcoatroofing@gmail.com or check them out on Facebook, whereyou can see agalleryofStormCoat Roofing’slatest work

In person: Latrobe Valley Express 21George St,Morwell

NextraLotto Moe 1-3 MooreSt, Moe Seymour St Newsagency 83 Seymour St, Traralgon

PLEASE NOTE:| thatadpaymentis required prior to publication unless afullaccount is held with the Latrobe Valley Express.

Email: classifieds@ lvexpress.com.au

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

AUCTION -DEBTRECOVERY

MOE

12 Haigh St, Sun., 9.30-2. Everything must go. Old tools, furniture, household and garage items.

Lenny

FIREWOOD, 5cubic metres of well seasoned mixed gum, $140 per cubic meter or $600 for the lot. 0417 561 528.

Landscaping Mulch

Beautify your garden. Bulk quantity available, $25m3. Phone 0412 613 443 or 1800 468 733.

Clearing Sales

• LAWNMOWER

Electric key start, 173CC, 4/stroke petrol, side discharge, mulch function. $195.00 Ph 0417 354 375.

MORWELL, 10 Evan St, Saturday,8am-12noon. Lawn mowers, antiques, bric-a-brac, round bar fridge, and lots more. No early callers please.

MORWELL, 3Gillie Cres. Saturday from 8.30am. Deceased estate, everything must go. Camping, fishing, sports, old tools, books, and bric-a-brac.

MORWELL, 3Lord Place, Saturday, 7am. 16ft boat, kayak x2,spa, furniture, clothes, 2ft tank, household items, tools, toys and lots more.

MORWELL, 7Jacob Crt, Sat., 8am. Moving house, disability aides, electric wheelchair, trailer with ramp, games, books, electrical goods, plants, pots, tools, and lots more.

MORWELL, Market, 31 Holmes Rd. $10 astall or share astall for $5 weekends. Bring abox of goodies to sell. More info call Jo -0437 981 388.

TRARALGON, 53 MooreSt Sat. 8am. Moving house, everything must go! Furniture, clothes, homewares, artwork, dinnerware, CDs, DVDs and lots more.

TRARALGON

87 Marshalls Road, Sat. 9am-1pm. Adult's clothes, kid's clothes, kid's toys, homewares and new candles/melts.

ARE 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 SALE IN THE EXPRESS TO REACH MORE LOCALS 5135 4455

Looking for new board members to join Latrobe Valley Village!

Do you have apassion for making apositive impact in your community? Are you interested contributing your skills, expertise, and experience to the aims of anot for profit aged care provider?

If so, we are looking for you! Our board members are all dedicated volunteers with acommitment to their community and providing high quality aged care. We are seeking additional board members to help us continue our success and drive Latrobe Valley Village into the future. As aboard member, you will have the opportunity to shape strategic direction, provide oversight and guidance, and help us achieve our goals.

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

● Finance and accounting

● Legal and governance

● Fundraising and development

● Non-profit management

To be considered for this opportunity, please contact us on 5127 7488 to receive an application pack. We look forward to hearing from you!

Latrobe Valley Village Residential AgedCare and Retirement Village, Newborough

Clearing

Saturday April 1, 10am

Acc Est Vm Quigley

Miss Banks Road, Yinnar

GP1655530

ONLY$13.50

Introducing

calf troughs, 35-teat calf feeders, various farm gates, concrete pipes &ahost of sundries too numerous to mention.

on Lions Facebook page.

D O B

surname

Mum s maiden name

Mum and Dad’s names

Location of Hospital Hometown

MORWELL OFFICE HOURS

CLASSIFIEDS EASTER CLASSIFIEDS DEADLINES INES

Forthe

Moe Self Storage

DOT Communication Pty Ltd of 13 Meadow Park Drive, Traralgon, Vic, 3844 has made application to the Licensing & Regulation Division for a Private Security Business Registration to provide the services of security equipment installer. Any person wishing to object to the granting of the registration has 14 days from the date of this advertisement to lodge an objection in writing to the Licensing &Regulation Division, GPO Box 2807, Melbourne, Vic, 3001.

Responsibility PLEASE CHECK YOUR AD

Please checkyour ad on the firstday andbring any errors to the attention of theClass fieds

Department immediately

The Latrobe Valley Express makes everyefforttoavoid errors. We regret that we cannot be responsible forany errors beyond the first day if you fail to bring it to our attention.

No allowances can be made for errorsnot materially affecting the effectiveness of thead.

Position cannot will not be guaranteed.

All claims foradjustmentofcredit must be made within seven days afterbill ng date

We reservethe right to revise or restrict anyadwedeem objectionable andtochange the classification when necessaryto conform to the policy of this newspaper In the event an ad is omitted from publication, we assume no liabilityfor suchomission.

Gas Appliances

Gutter Cleaning

Handyman Service

An exciting opportunity exists to join an award winning practice with ahighly motivated team in a friendly environment.

TRAINEE RECEPTIONIST

(Full Time position) Morwell Office

● Must have successfully completed Year 12

● Have time management skills

● Passionate about acareer in financial planning

● Have great communication skills and loves learning

● Attention to detail

Please forward your resume to: Practice Principal tony@moneytalkplanners.com.au

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.

JS PAINTING

Door Installer

Does your home need new doors? Ican supply and install doors/locks, inc. security doors. Over 32 yrs exp. Free quote, Lennie 0438 850 287.

SERVICE TECHNICIAN

Full Product and Job Training

Excellent Career Opportunity

The Pirtek Group is an Australian owned company specialising in mobile service and replacement of hydraulic and industrial hose and fittings and ancillary equipment. We are seeking an experienced and motivated person to fill the position of Mobile Service Technician /workshop fitter for the Latrobe Valley Service and Supply Centre.

Strong consideration will be given to applicants who show evidence in the following:

● A trade background with previous experience in Hydraulics is essential

● Be able to operate machinery, use tools and measuring devices

● Have a strong understanding of customer service

● Good numeracy, verbal and written skills

● Have astrong work ethic and pride in workmanship

● Be ateam player

● Prioritise to meet deadlines

● Ability to problem solve

● Understand OHS and Safe Work Practices

● Possess acurrent manual driver's licence (MR licence preferred)

● Flexibility with working hours as after-hours availability is apre-requisite Afully maintained service vehicle will be supplied and the position comes with the opportunity to advance within the company.

Full product and job training will be provided.

Well above award wages and conditions are offered to the successful applicant.

Forward your written application with acurrent resume by 10 April 2023 to:

The Centre Manager Pirtek Latrobe Valley PO Box 3452, GMC, Morwell Vic 3841

Business Opportunities

in the Latrobe Valley area.

CONTACT 131 546 For ano-obligation free Info Kit

St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School is seeking applications for the following position at Warragul Secondary School.

Science Teacher

Commencing as soon as possible

If you areinterested please forwarda current resume and cover letter to hr@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Foracopyofthe PositionDescription please refer to ourwebsite: www.stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Applicationsclose Monday 3April 2023

WisdomIntegrity Compassion Respect

OPERATIONS MANAGER Morwell

Dyers are athird-generation family business and leaders in logistics since 1932. We have long term contractual agreements with Australia's leading retailers and manufacturers to transport and store food and foodgrade materials.

As Operations Manager based at Morwell Depot you will report to the Gippsland Group Operations Manager. This full-time position will ideally be suited to an ambitious and energetic person with logistics, distribution and/or 3pl experience.

Desired Attributes:

● Ability to lead and work collaboratively in diverse teams

● Building astrong culture of safety, compliance and customer service

● Co-ordinate capital and labour resources taking into account fluctuating volumes

● Reporting and adherence to Key Performance Indicators

● Implementing process improvement and efficiency initiatives

● Ability to follow strict policies and procedures in accordance with Chain of Responsibility laws

● Effective communication and co-operation with external and internal stakeholders

● Maintaining an uncompromised level of quality including product integrity of the goods that we carry to HACCP standards

● Previous management experience, preferably in logistics

● Transport Scheduling and Planning knowledge

● Excellent time management, prioritisation, organisational and problem solving skills

● Ability to streamline processes and implement change

● Strong computer skills to be able to use Dyers proprietary software, GPS systems, Customer Portals, On-line training systems and On-line reporting systems

For further information and to submit your application please refer to Seek: https://www.seek.com.au/job/66398840

If you have any further queries in relation to this role please contact, Matthew Sanderson -HRManager on 0447 107 088 or contact: DyersHR@Dyers.com.au

J G King Homes, Victoria’s largest builder of Steel Frame homes, is seeking an energetic & highly motivated individual to join our Traralgon team You will be based out of the Traralgon Office

As a Maintenance Supervisor you will report to the Construction Manager This Full-Time position will operate & complete all aspects of Maintenance

This is a hands-on roll that will require you to complete the maintenance, as well as coordinate trades for different parts of the role

Duties Include

• Complete manage schedule and coordinate the completion of maintenance work carried out

• Prepare and place orders with various suppliers throughout the course of construction

• Manage the inspection, validation and completion of the three (3) month maintenance and general maintenance when required

• Ensure a safe working environment on all site following OHS & E practices;

• Ensure all contractors & suppliers confirm to the company’s requirements with respect to insurance and other statutory requirements

• Effectively ensure the client company relationship is maintained at all times

• Following strict process and procedures

Skills

• Display high level of professionalism maturity & customer service

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;

• Microsoft Office Suite skills including usage of Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Outlook;

• A sound knowledge of the volume home building industry in Victoria

• High level of time management & organisational skills;

• Ability to multi-task & proactive approach to all tasks provided

• The completion of trade qualification (preferred); and

• A current driver’s license & ability to undertake travel as required

If you are interested please email a Cover Letter & Resume to: human resources@jgking com au

Please note only short listed applicants will be contacted

GP1 655408

TEACHING POSITION

Fulltime Ongoing

We are seeking aqualified, experienced and enthusiastic Teacher to be part of our professional learning team. The position is 1day aweek Classroom teacher and 4days per week Physical Education Teacher. Consideration will be given to job sharing the role. Applicants must embrace an ethos of working in partnership with colleagues, parents and students to develop athriving 21st century learning community where relationships are highly respectful, reflecting our school motto of Strength and Gentleness.

Graduate and experienced teachers are encouraged to apply.

Contact details: Michelle Charlton: Principal

Phone: 5174 5515

How to apply:

Adetailed position description and application requirements are available by accessing the School website at www.stgtraralgon.catholic.edu.au/career-s

Applications via email: principal@stgtraralgon.catholic.edu.au

Applications close: Wednesday 5April 12pm

This school community promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children

Community Engagement Advisor

Permanentpart-time, flexible working arrangement of 30 hoursper fortnight

Some eveningand weekendwork required Trafalgar and District Financial Services Ltd is thefranchisee holder for CommunityBank Trafalgar and District.Wehaveanexcitingrole for aperson whohas high-level engagement and communicationskills.Itisour purpose to supportthe growth of aprosperous community through sponsorship, projectsand grants. This role will be responsible for:

Development and implementation of community engagement and investment programs Marketing and advertising plans and strategies

Growing and maintaining partnerships with the community Managing projectsand events

If youare the person we need, send your resume and acover letter outlining yourrelevantexperience and skills to secretary@tdfs.com.au by 5.00pm on Thursday, 6April 2023

Fora copy of the position description or for moreinformation contact TDFS Board Chairperson, Christine Holland0418574 446

Advertise your

A billboard of job vacancies is delivered right to

Classifieds 5135 4455 4455

Keepingyou

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE:

FULL TIME &PARTTIME

Truck/delivery Driver

We have apositions available for adelivery driver based in Morwell delivering Spring Water bottles and products to our customers Throughout eastern Victoria. The successful applicant will be paid above the award rate, and require:

● To be presentable as dealing with our customers -business and residential customers.

● Switched on, honest and trustworthy, tech savvy to use invoicing ap on phone.

● Forklift licence.

● Physically fit -lifting bottles @15kg each with over 200 per day delivered (no forklift on delivery truck).

● Delivery area from Melbourne through to Bairnsdale including Philip Island and Mornington Peninsula.

!!!! MUST HAVE !!!!

● Medium Rigid Licence and be agood driver.

● WWC (working with children's or be able to get one).

● Police Check will be required.

● Pass Drug and Alcohol Test. Send resumes to cool@coolgroup.com.au

Bensons Timber &Hardware

BETTER BUILDING BRANDS

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.

TRAINING &DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR –PRODUCTION &MAINTENANCE

If you arecommitted to best practice in L&D and would liketocontribute to the development of atalented and diverse team while being rewarded with great salaryand benefits, then keep reading!

About the opportunity

Enjoythe benefits of acountrylifestyle with access to exceptional educational institutions, affordable living, and manystunning local attractions. Less than a two-hour drive to Melbourne.

Base salaryof$180,253- $236,143 per annum

Generous superannuation, contributions above the superannuation guarantee.

Attractive benefits including Company Health Benefits Plan for single or family and ProductivityIncentive up to 30%ofannualbase rate earnings

Flexible working arrangements to balance your work, life, and play. Base 36-hour,4-day work week.Above awardannual leave entitlements.

About us

LoyYang Bisanelectricity generator located in the picturesque Latrobe Valley currently supplying 20% of Victoria’s power.Weare owned by Chow TaiFook Enterprises (CTFE) and belong to the Alinta Energy family,agrowing and innovative energy market disrupter

We arefocused on increasing plant performance, efficiency and flexibilityand seek people who canturn inspiration into ideas, andideas into gamechanging solutions.

We arecommitted to increasing workforce diversity and creating an environment wherepeople with new ideas feel empowered to speak up and explorewhat is possible.

We constantly strive to understand and meet broad community expectations regarding environmental management,health, safety and good corporate citizenship.

What you’ll do

Provide strategic advice on the training and development needs of production, engineering and maintenance personnel.

Plan,coordinate and scheduletraining.

Map training and assessments to the relevantnational competency units from within the Electricity Supply Industry(ESI) –Generation Sector training package.

Ensurethatall training and assessmentmaterials produced meet LYB’s requirements and specifications.

Deliver training wherecompetent andqualified to do so.

Conduct competency-based assessments and undertake RPL.

Contribute to the development of succession plans and individual development plans.

Monitor the on-the-jobtraining provided to Apprentices and Trainees.

What you’ll need

Significant andrelevant experience as aPower Plant Operator in alarge modern coal fired power station is required.

National accreditation in Electrical Supply Industry(Generation) (UEP12) or a willingness to obtain this qualification through an RPL process.

Must hold aWorksafe (Victoria) High Risk Licence for Advanced Boiler and Turbine Operation or equivalent issued in another state or territory

Certificate IV in Training and Assessment or willingness to obtain.

If this sounds likeyou, don’t ignorethis opportunity, makesureyou:

Apply via our careers page www.loyyangb.com.au/careers

Position closes Monday, 3April 2023.

LoyYang B– powering your career!

LoyYang Bwelcome applications from people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people with disability.Wewill provide reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilitythroughout the recruitment process. If you identify as aperson 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.

With Hardwareand Building supplies growing in our area, Bensons areseekingpersons with an interest in workingcasual hourswith our building supplies. Thiscould be an exciting position for the right person. It would involve some sales presentation andsafehandlingofbuilding materials. Youwould be neededtomanage some deliveries of goods on timewhile working withverycapable and friendly staffmembers.You would need good communication skills and relate well with others.

Some advantages would be to have aforklift licence and medium ridged truck licence. Formoreinformation and if this position would be of interest to you, please send resume to: accounts@bensonshardware.com.au

Alternatively mailto: 61-69 Latrobe Road, Morwell

100% locally owned

61-69Latrobe Road,Morwell Phone 5133 9477

CareersatLatrobe

LatrobeCityCouncilhasexcitingopportunitiesforenthusiasticand forward-thinkingindividualswithapassionforprovidingexcellent servicestoourcommunity

• Accounts Officer-Temporary Part Time

• ContractAdministration Officer - tAdministrationOfficer PermanentFullTime

• RegionalAssessmentOfficer - Regional Assessment Officer -Temporary Full Time

• ExperiencedMaintenance Employee - Experienced Maintenance Horticulture &Landscaping - iculture -Permanent Full Time

• PrincipalStatutory Planner- Pr pal Statutory Planner -Permanent Full Time

• Preschooland Childcare -MultiplePositions ooland Childcare- Multiple Posi-Casual

Forfurtherinformationincludinghow toapply,positiondescriptionsand applicationclosingdates,pleasevisitour websitewww.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

Pleasenotesuccessfulapplicantswillbe requiredtoapplyforandsatisfactorilyobtain aNationalPoliceCheckandWorkingwith ChildrenCheck

2009 COROLLA

CASH FOR CARS

Holden Captiva SX, 2010, 7seater, new turbo, diesel, r.w.c., very clean, 1BE-8ZH,

HOLDEN Statesman '04, VY V6, d/fuel, by Holden Design, reg., r.w.c. e.c. sat. nav., leather, books, s/roof, elderly owner, blk, BRB-212 $7500. Ph 0409 173 461.

MOTORING SPECIAL

Minimum 6lines$56 without aphoto or $70withacolour photo

Total of 4consecutive editions in the Latrobe Valley Express and 8editions of the Gippsland Times paper THEY DO SELL!

DRIVE YOUR DOLLAR FURTHER Cars and Caravans areindemand

www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

CADET JOURNALIST

The Latrobe Valley Express and Gippsland Times arelooking for acadet journalist to join our team.

This is afantastic opportunity for you to contribute to the communities in our region. The role will include general news reporting in aregion withawealthofstories to be told about current challenges and future opportunities in addition to the normalstory tellingexpected of alocal newspaperserving its community

The ideal candidate will:

Have relevanttertiary qualifications

Have great communication skills, both verbal and written

Be able to write punchy,informative and exciting stories on arange of subjects

Possess great news sense and an understanding of what engageslocal readers

Have acurrent driver’s licence

Be motivated with acommitment to accuracy and qualityreporting

The Express and GippslandTimes areaward winning newspapers with circulationsof35,000 and 15,000 copiesrespectively

The successful applicant will report to theEditor. Send aletter of application,resume,list of referees and workexamples to:

The Editor- Liam Durkin

Latrobe Valley Express ldurkin@lvexpress.com.au

Applications close: Thursday,6th April 2023.

5135 4455

Blue/black BMW 2014, f800 GS, Adventure Touring Motorbike, 12,200kms, reg till July '23 $12,800, ph 0419 523 761

4WD

Nissan Navara

1991, manual, v.g.c. r.w.c. vin 21A0433493. $8,000, phone 0475 690 520

Responsibility PLEASE CHECK YOUR AD

Please checkyourad on the first day andbring any errors to the attention of the Classifieds Department immediately

The LatrobeValley Express makes everyefforttoavoid errors

We regret that we cannot be responsible forany errors beyond the first day if you fail to bring it to our attention.

No allowances canbemade for errors notmaterially affecting the effectiveness of thead. Position cannot willnot be guaranteed.

All claims foradjustment of credit must be made within seven days afterbilling date.

We reservethe right to revise or restrictany ad we deem objectionable and to change the classification when necessary to conform to the policy of this newspaper. In the event an ad is omitted from publication, we assumenoliability forsuchomission.

URGENT Deliverers Wanted TRARALGON, MORWELL and NEWBOROUGH

Would you liketodeliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Traralgon, Morwell and Newborough.

Please apply to:

The Circulation Manager 0456000 541

Please note: Children mustbe11yearsorover as we will need to applyfor agovernment Child EmploymentPermit. Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted

Adult deliverers also welcome GP1

Personals

Deaths

BERQUEZ, Victor Alistair. Only son Auguste Victor and Olive Alice Berquez. Much loved brother of Yvonne, Claudette, Olive and Marion. Till we meet again

BERQUEZ, Victor. Many treasured memories shared and never forgotten. I'll miss you my dear trusted friend. No more pain for you in this earthy body. Go Demons Razzle.

BUHAGIAR, Ignatius Michael (Tony). The Traralgon Football Netball Club are saddened by the passing of our much valued life member (Budgy). Agreat clubman always there to help. Deepest sympathy to Kerrie, Michelle, Craig and extended families. Happy Fishing Budgy

CAFFRY, Cobi.

8/7/1943 -25/3/2023.

Passed away suddenly, in her 80th year.

Loved and loving wife of Gerry (dec.).

Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Shane and Wendy, and Russell and Diane.

Adored Gran to Amy and Jack, Maggie and Kenny, Jed and Ella, Sam and Lisa, Jack, Rick, Mitch and Chels, Gavin and Cayte.

Much loved Great-Gran to Dusty, Graya, Scottie, one on the way, and Brax.

At Rest with Gerald

CAFFRY (Vanderwees), Cobi.

24/3/2023.

To my loving sister Cobi, we have wonderful memories of great times.

Iamdevastated by your passing. My heart goes to Russell, Shane and families.

May you rest in peace

With love from your sister Alie.

CAFFRY, Cobi.

Heartfelt sympathies to Russell, Shane and families on the sudden passing of their Mum Cobi. Aunty Cobi, Iwill miss our conversations which never ended up being just aquick call. What Iwill have is aton of fabulous memories/fun times to look back on. With love Jolanda, Travis, Rory and Troy.

CAFFRY, Cobi.

You left us so suddenly, gone but not forgotten.

Loved friend of Josie, Robert and family.

Walk your path one step at atime, Cast your dreams to the stars, Walk into your new journey where you will join your loved ones. Your loving friend Josie.

FREEMAN, Gladys

Catherine. Latrobe Valley Dance Promotions Inc would like to pass on their sincere condolences to the family and friends of Gladys. Alife member and 20 years of dedication and service to the dancing community. You will be forever missed by your dancing friends.

GASI, Tony. Passed away peacefully in the ICU at the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne on 25 March 2023, with his brother and son by his side.

My dear brother, only 17 months older than me, you were my hero and protector. Now that you have gone you're no longer here to share the special bond we had together. Abond of love and caring. Even though we didn't see each other often enough we still had that bond.

Forever and always in our hearts Till we meet again.

Love John and Dianne XXX

Beautiful memories will always be kept of adearly loved uncle that we will never forget.

Forever in our Hearts

Love Tina, Paul and Sharni. XXX

Uncle Tony, Your life was ablessing, Your memory atreasure, You are loved beyond words, And missed beyond measure.

Always in our Hearts Love Ros, Reece, Alyssa, Kiarah and Jaylah. XXX

GASI, Tony. 1/10/1953 -25/3/2023.

Tony passed away after a short illness on 25/3/2023.

Beloved father to David (dec.) and Sean. Poppy to Addison and Amelia. Brother and brother-in-law to John, Dianne, Susan and Dale. Much loved friend to Vicky and Dave, families and friends.

Rest In Peace

Forever in our Hearts

IVEY (Smith), Shirley Margaret.

Passed away peacefully at the Alfred Hospital Melbourne on 22 March 2023. Aged 86 years Dearly loved wife of Keith (dec.). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Jen and Ken, Graham and Mazz, and Kevin. Adored granny of Melinda, Carlee, Angie, Jess, Danni, Sam, Taylah ,and Janni. Great granny to Maddison, McKenzie, Mitch, Vincent, Abby, Ryder, Logan, Campbell, and Malikah.

LAWTON (Walsh), Kim

Maree. 7/9/1965 -17/3/2023.

Dearly loved daughter of Kathy (Breen) and the late John Walsh, Gary Spark.

Dearly loved sister of Julie, Peter and Michael.

Dearly loved mother of Kylee, Brooke, Maddison and Jordynn. Dearly loved nanna of 10.

The Funeral was held in Townsville, FRIDAY (24 March 2023) at 2pm. The Funeral will be livestreamed on the Townsville Cremation Website from 1.45pm, for 3weeks.

MANSFIELD, Stephen Alan 7/2/1942 -2/3/2023. Beloved only child of Harold and Olive. Husband and soul mate of Lorraine (Henly). Loved and loving father to Alan (dec.), Melisa and Sonyer and their partners. Grandfather of 6, step grandfather of 2, great grandfather of 11 and ahalf.

Now Resting in Peace

As Steve requested, a Private Cremation has been held.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

McLURE, William James (Jim). 24/12/1945 -24/3/2023.

Following along last race.

Loving husband of Janet, father and father-in-law of Stuart and Sarah, Linda and Steven.

Grandpa to David, Jessica, Madison, Hayley, Chloe, Jesse, and great-grandpa to Eleanor.

Son of Stewart Allan (Bill) and Dos (both dec.).

Lovedbrotherand

brother-in-law of Margaret and Graham (dec.), Allan and Kerry, Joy (dec.) and Peter, Pam, Peter (dec.) and Cathy, Bruce and Jenny, Ross and Denice, Robert and Jackie. Loved uncle to his many nephews and nieces. Running free, all gold medals now For Funeral details WD Rose, Chelenham website.

MITCHELL, Garth. 25/11/1949 -23/3/2023.

73 years, late of Moe.

Many thanks to the day and night staff at Maryvale Private Hospital, and Julie Harwood Funerals who gave him such adignified and peaceful departure.

OATES, Gary John. Passed away peacefully at Bupa Traralgon on Monday 27 March 2023. Aged 65 years Loved son of Lance and Molly (both dec.). Dearly loved brother of Kevin, Denise, Pam and Lance and their partners. Our words are few, our thoughts are deep, Wonderful memories are ours to keep.

PAUL, Patricia Ann.

3/11/1949 -27/3/2023.

Passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

Daughter of Jim and Mabel Edwards (both dec.). Sister of Jimmy (dec.), John (dec.), Brian, and Kevin (dec.). Cherished wife of Barry. Much loved mother of Stephen and Debbie, Gary, Graeme and Louise, Mark and Pru, Brad and Mia. Adored Nana of 17 grandchildren and 3great grandchildren. Now at peace Forever in our hearts XXXXX

For Service details please visit the website: www.latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

QUIRK, Barry John (Bazza). Passed away peacefully on 22nd March 2023 at Latrobe Regional Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Aged 87 years Dearly loved and loving husband of Elaine for 66 years. Much loved father and father-in-law of Lauren and Mark, Steven and Carmel, and Peter (dec.). Adored Poppy to Zoe and Paul, Nathan and Sarah, Sam and Kristy, Ben and Alanna and Great Poppy to Liam, Thomas, Spencer, and Henry.

To know him was to love him Together we made a beautiful family. Elaine.

SERGI, Achille (Allan).

Born on 15 December 1929

Passed away 23 March 2023

Peace At Last

SMITH (nee Dyke), Gloria. Passed away on Monday, 20 March 2023, surrounded by the love of her family. Adored mum of Beck, and Michael and Alyce. Little GofTarley, Tye, Ilah and Kade. Sister of Joan (dec.), Pam and Laurie. Loved lifelong friend of Sonia and Ian. At Peace With Her Angels

SMITH, Gloria Jane. 6/2/1958 -20/3/2023. Loved and treasured friend of 46 years. We shared our lives and became family, yours a part of mine and mine a part of yours. We have shared tears of joy and sadness. Thank you for the laughs, fun and treasured memories. Thank you for the wonderful, unique friendship. You have been one of our greatest blessings and we shall never forget your beautiful nature and your unconditional love. Life will be sad without you, we will never stop loving or missing you. Sonia, Ian, Jesse and Jayke.

SMITH, Gloria. 20/3/2023. Such abeautiful person. Remembering the good old days. Mary and Peter Ambler and family

SMITH, Gloria. 20/3/2023. My beautiful Glor, your wings were ready, but my heart was not. Fly high and free lovely lady. Will love you forever Your little buddy, Donna.

TAYLOR, Brian Albert. 24/2/1938 -22/3/2023.

Died peacefully at the LRH surrounded by his loving family. Now reunited with his beloved wife Josephine (dec.). He will be forever missed by their children, Tony and wife Karen, Angela and husband Peter, Elizabeth and husband Darren, nine devotedgrandchildren and partners and his much cherished, six great grandchildren. Known by many as atrue gentleman and to all who knew him as awonderful, gentle man. "A life that touches the hearts of others, lives on forever" APrivate Cremation has been held.

VANSTAN, Roger David. 10/5/1937 -18/3/2023. Loved and loving husband of Janice for 61 years. Loving father of Lisa, mate to Peter, Pa to Brittany and Jake. Much loved father of Mark, father-in-law of Sally, loving Pa of Luke and Tayla, Courtney and Pia, Annabel and Paul, Clementine and Kane, Angus and Georgia. Loving dad of Rob and Fe, Pa to Summer and Myf, Ta'naha and Zanda. How we will miss your quick wit, your Monty Python references and your wonderful cooking. Finally at peace

WATTS, Cheryl Denise. 21/10/1944 -26/3/2023.

Loved daughter of Cyril and Meryle (both dec.).

Partner of Jim (dec.). Sister and sister-in-law of Margaret and John (both dec.), Neil and Marlene (both dec.) and Graeme and Lynette (both dec.). Aunty to Craig and Jo, Trevor, Joanne and Wes (dec.), Jacqui, Tina, Brad, Brett and their families.

Forever in our hearts

WITHAM, Donald. Dearly loved father of Dianne and father-in-law to Paul. Very loving and caring Pop to Cara. We will miss you. Sleep peacefully

Funerals

•

CAFFRY. The Funeral of Mrs Cobi Caffry will be held at the Gippsland Memorial Park Crematorium Rose Chapel, Cemetery Drive Traralgon on FRIDAY (31 March 2023) commencing at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Fred Hollows Foundation would be appreciated, envelopes available at the Service.

SMITH. AService to Celebrate the life of Gloria Smith will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437A Princes Dve, Morwell FRIDAY (31 March 2023) commencing at 1.30pm.

Private Cremation

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

WATTS.

The Funeral Service for Mrs Cheryl Denise Watts will be held at, Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437A Princes Drive, Morwell, TUESDAY (4 April 2023) commencing at 1pm.

Following the Service the Funeral will leave for the Hazelwood Cemetery.

LEWIS, Evelyn. 17/10/1930 -26/3/2023. Another butterfly lights beside us like asunbeam and for abrief moment its glory and beauty belong to the world. But then it flies on again and though we wish it could have stayed, we feel so lucky to have seen it.

Reunited with Hughie Fly together again Loving godmother, aunt and dearest friend Sally-Anne, Ene, Derek, Jordan and Jack.

Darling Cheryl you are going to be missed by so many. You are now with your darling Jim. Remembered always by Wendy and Tom (dec.), Tracey, Michelle, Michael (dec.), Tomm and all their families.

Precious memories of you are ours to keep Loved aunty of Craig and Jo, Trevor, Mark, Joanne and Wes (dec.) and their families. Now at peace We have lots of memories of you Cheryl and will miss you dearly. Fiona, Eileen and families.

At rest now

IVEY. The Funeral Service for Mrs Shirley Margaret Ivey will be held at the Gippsland Memorial Park Rose Chapel Traralgon FRIDAY (31 March 2023) at 11am. Shirley'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

LEWIS. The Funeral Service and Committal for Mrs Mary Evelyn Lewis will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Ave, Moe WEDNESDAY (5 April 2023) commencing at 11am. Evelyn's Service will also be livestreamed. Please go to our website for details.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

OATES. The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mr Gary John Oates will be held at, Gippsland Memorial Park Crematorium Chapel, Cemetery Drive Traralgon WEDNESDAY (5 April 2023) commencing at 1pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

QUIRK. The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mr Barry (Bazza) Quirk will be held at St Mary's Anglican Church, Latrobe Rd, Morwell on THURSDAY (30 March 2023) commencing at 2pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

SERGI. The Funeral of Mr Achille Sergi (Allan) will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy, Traralgon on FRIDAY (31 March 2023) commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of the Service aPrivate Burial will be held.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Peter Mac Foundation would be appreciated, envelopes available at the service. The Service for Allan will also be livestreamed. For details, please go to our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

In Memoriam •

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2259 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au Hoonnoouur r yoouur r loovveed d onnees s annd d s shhaarre e thheeiir r s sttoorry y

CLARK, Peter. 16/3/2005. So many memories to pass on to the little ones. We all miss you so much. Norma.

IKIN (nee Christensen), Nancy Mary. 3/9/1922 -29/3/2003.

Mum, it's 20 years since you left us, Ilove and miss you everyday. Love Suzanne XXX.

Bereavement

Thanks •

HOPLEY, Richard Francis.

The family would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone for the love, support and kindness shown to us on the passing of our dearly loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Thank you so much Anne (dec.), Margaret, Lyn, Rick, Peter and families.

LANG.

Niva's family would kindly thank everyone for their cards, flowers, messages, visits, and attendance at her funeral. Special thanks to Myra and Lorraine.

Niva will be greatly missed, Stewart, Daniel, Rachel, John, and Ines.

SUTHERLAND, Isabel.

Frank, Brenda, Gary and Liz, Karen and Ian and their families extend their heartful thanks for all the love, care and support we have received after Isabel's passing. Your kindness through cards, messages, visits, phone calls prayers and the food provided helped to lift our spirits during this difficult time. Thank you also to those who were able to celebrate her life by attending the Service or watching on the livestream. Our thanks also go to Maryvale Private Hospital for their caring and outstanding Palliative Care Team who were so understanding.

Whenyoulose someone close to you, it can be hardto put your thoughts and feelings into words Apersonal message in the Latrobe Valley Express can say so much Forfriendly advice on howto place yourmessage contact The Classified Department 5135 4455

Local winners surprise at Bairnsdale

HORSE RACING

By TOM HAYES

ALL eyes were on the Bairnsdale Racing Club as they held the Patties Foods Bairnsdale Cup at the weekend.

An eight-race card was scheduled for the meet, which took place on aGood 4graded track.

Things began strong when the favourite won the Race 1Tim Bull Member for East Gippsland Maiden Plate over 1600m.

The Great Seal for Jason Williams was secondlast out of the gate, but swiftly made his way to the front of the pack to lead the race.

He controlledthe entire race, stretching out to atwo-and-a-half length lead, before being caught after the line.

ClassicStoryfor Sale’s HeatherStephenswas right in the mix,finishingthird,while other locals didn’t fare so well.

Marble Run for Sale’s Adam Hanley dropped back to eighth, while Sacra for Sale’s Gary Douch dropped to last.

It was ahot finish to Race 2’s Bet365 Maiden Plate (1200m), with four horses crossing the line within alength of each other.

The clear favourite, Headline Story for Phillip Stokes, ran off-pace before pouncing ahead of the leaders at the 400m mark.

Despitethis, the rest of the pack stayedclose, but he managed to stay in front by ahead as he crossed the line.

Clydebank Robber for Sale’s Susie Wells and Lonestar Jackfor Sale’s Troy Kilgower made up the final two positions in eighth and ninth.

The Race 3Dahlsens Group Maiden Plate (1000m) was won by local, LochendUmosa for Sale’s Paul Worthington.

After coming close on many occasions, the fiveyear-old mare finally got her first win after 14 starts.

She expertly controlled the race from the front, gettingher lead to around four lengths before cooling off in the latter stages, clear by just under alength.

Concrete Fever for Sale’s Cliff Murray was fifth for almostthe entire race, before finishing fifth, whileSchueller forKilgower was steadily in second, but dropped all the way to the rear.

Race 4’s Viatek East Gippsland Handicap (1000m) wastakenout by OverBoostfor Paul Gorman, which included abrilliant fight-back.

The five-year-old gelding, who was originally in fifth, went four wide in an attempt to draw even with the leaders, and it worked.

With 200m to go, he turned on the afterburners to overtake the leaders and come home with over alength to spare.

Victorian Open Bowls comp starts in style

LAWN BOWLS VIC OPEN

BY TOM HAYES

THE Henselite Victorian Open is now under way in Gippsland, with clubs from all around the region hosting the event.

People from all over the state will be gathered here in Gippsland for the next week, as they battle one another in Bowls.

The competition began on Friday, March 24, opening with the Mixed Pairs competition.

So far, only four teams remain for the Mixed Pairs division as LeonieFlynn(Karingal) and Philip Crowder (Karingal) are set to take on Kate Argent-Bowden (Angaston)and Ben Hubber (Bundoora) in the first Semi Final, while Jan Morton (Sale) and Thoraedahl Shannon(Essendon) will face Trish Cullinane (Heathmont) and Simon Cullinane (Port Fairy) for aspot in the Grand Final.

On Sunday, March 26, the Triples Sectional Games begun, with the Men's and Women's Triples following on the next day (the same day this paper goes to print). March 28 to 29 contains the Pairsevents, while March 30 and 31 are Singles events.

The finals are to be played on the weekend of April 1and 2, with finals beginning as early as 9.30am, and starting as late as 5.15pm. Clubs from all around the region are hosting games.

Towns involved in covering the competition are Drouin, Heyfield, Maffra, Mirboo North, Newborough, Thorpdale, Traralgon, Warragul, Churchill, Yallourn North, Boolarra, Longwarry,Moe, Sale,Stratford, Trafalgar, West Sale, Yarragon and Yinnar.

Just Malcolm for Sale’s Bill Wood finished eighth and Iloveannie for Walkley came 10th after a shocking start.

Empressive Enuff for Dean Binaisse was impressive to say the least, when he smashed the field to win by five lengths in the Race 5TRFM Tesbury Jack Sprint (1200m).

While the midfield pack exchanged positions, things werecomposed up the frontfor Empressive Enuff, who calmly led the pack.

He’dtoyed with them for the first 800m or so, as when he hit the bend, he stretched out to afive length led and stormed to the line.

Elvaric for Wells climbed from ninth to finish third, while Panagsama came from 10th to finish sixth.

It was one to forget for I’m Cheeky for Wood, as abattlefor the lead early on, led to coming second-last.

Positionschanged alot throughout the back-end of Race 6’s BulmerFarmsLindenow Cup (2200m), as the well-valued favourite dropped from first to third.

ICould Do Better came charging home in the final moments to pinch the lead, after settling in the midfield throughout the race.

He created apathfor Bell’s Bighouse, who was

paying $18, to follow him and come second.

Bishop Rock for Wells climbed to seventh,but that was as far as she’d get and Langworthy for Moe’s AllisonBennettcouldonly muster eighth position.

Nextup, was the long-awaited Race 7Patties Foods Bairnsdale Cup (1600m), which was incredibly won by local, Delightful Journey for Moe’s Christine Sexton.

Delightful Journey was one of the best to jump from the gate,taking an early two-length lead, stretching quickly to four lengths clear.

The leadlength fluctuated, but Delightful Journey firmly held the lead, controlling the race up until the line to claim an emphatic victory.

Delightful Journey was paying $61 on Sportsbet prior to the race, the equal-highest odds for any horse in that field.

In doing so, the five-year-old gelding thathad just claimed its fifth win, took home nearly $40,000 worth of prize money.

Starspangled Baby came second for Craig Blackshaw, Fine Weatherfor Walkley dropped from the podium to eighth, Red On Red for Moe’s John Pascoe came ninth, while Dahwilly for Bennett seemingly retired from the race.

The meet ended fantastically fromalocal perspective, as Walkley finally got awinner after a

Siddleset to re-join Victorian ranksinmature-age role

CRICKET By TOM HAYES

MORWELL export Peter Siddle has announced his departure from Shield side, Tasmanian Tigers, as he looks ahead to the 2023/24 season back at Victoria.

In apost on Instagram, Siddlewrote,"As the season comes to an end so so does my time with (Tasmanian Tigers)".

"I've had awonderful time over the past three years and can't thank them enough for the opportunity and support.

"It came at atough time in my life but you all welcomed me and made me feel happy, so thank you for that.

"My time down there will always hold asport in my heart.

He ended the statement with the parting hint,

"Nowit'stimetorun it backwith (VictorianCricket Team). Can't wait to come back home".

Siddlejoinedthe Tasmanian sidein2020, collecting 78 wickets across 30 Sheffield Shield and Marsh One-Day Cup games.

Now,Siddle will re-jointhe Victorian state side, where he began his career playing 63 Shield matches.

Although it is believed that Siddle is yet to put pen to paper, it is also believed that he will lead a young Victorian bowling attack, after the departure of JamesPattinsonand in the absence of Scott Boland, who is now apartofthe Australian Test squad.

In the meantime, Siddle will play overseas in England, for Countyside Somerset from April to July, beforereturningfor domestic duty in Australia for Victoria.

struggling day, as Luv ADuckwon Race 8’s Club Eastwood Handicap (1600m).

It wastwo horse raceinthe final moments of the day as Luv ADuckand Tycoon Raff fought tooth and nail for the final win of the day.

The two got the best jump from the gates, as they fought for an early lead, simultaneously gaining five lengths on the rest of the field.

Luv ADuckwas more patient with his approach, saving energy for the end game, which allowed him to pinch the lead by anose at the line.

Paying $18,itwas another local roughie who surprised everyone.

Ima Dozer for Sexton came fifth and Vibrant Glider for Blackshaw was anose behind in sixth.

The next meet at Bairnsdale is on Monday, May 1for the Free Race Day Monday Racing.

Finally: LochendUmosa wins Race 3atBairnsdale Photographs: BrettHolburt/Racing Photos

Out of nowhere: Delightful Journeycrosses the line comfortably in thePatties Foods Bairnsdale Cup

By anose: Luv ADuckwins the finalrace of the meet at Bairnsdale

Roughie: Delightful Journeywins thePatties Foods BairnsdaleCup

Returning: PeterSiddle announced he is set to play forVictoria again in the 2023/24 Shield season. Photograph supplied

Goannas find it tough at carnival

CRICKET VETERANS

THE 10th anniversary carnival for Veteran Cricketers was held in the Goulburn-Murray region over the last week.

The Gippsland Goannas have fielded ateam each yearasthe carnival grew from the fouroriginal clubs to aFour-Division competition, involving 30 teams.

The Goannas havebeen able to hold theirown in the First Division until now, and for the first time they also entered ateam in the lowest division.

The Goannas did not have enough players to fill the second team, and the South Gippsland and Koo Wee Rup teams were to help out.

Some of the Goannas’better players were injured during the carnival, or could not get to Echuca for

the tournament.

The Division 1teamplayed the SA Wombatsfirst up, ateam containing some of the State Over-60 team members. Goannas batted first and compiled 149, for the loss of seven wickets, with Ray Floyd 29 not out, Ray Smith 33, Neil Meredith 26 and Ian Southall 20 retired, the best of the batsmen.

Rino Metlikovec’s five overs for 2/12, led the bowlers,with Neil Meredith 1/12, Southall 1/20 and Peter Anton 1/18 the other wicket takers, as the SA side compiled 6/150.

In Game Two the Goannas made 148, for the loss of seven wickets, with Rob Taylor 32 not out, Metlikovec 28, Southall 20 not out, and Ian Gibson 20 retired, leading the scoring.

In reply, the Vic Country team made 4/154, with Meredith and Anton claiming one wicket each.

In Game Three, Sunbury batted first and made 6/166, with MurrayMoore, Southall, Meredith and Anton the wicket takers.

In reply the Goannas were held to 9/143.

Metlikovec scored 23 not out, Southall made 26 notout and Anton scored 27.

In the finalgame, the play-off for seventh and eighth positions in the Division, ACS batted first and compiled 3/229 from their 40 overs.

Ray Smith with four overs for 2/15 led the bowling and Meredith also took awicket to be the leading wicket taker for the week.

The Goannas had recruited afew players from the Division 4team, which had to forfeit their last game.

Jim Armstrong (27) and Gibson (20) retired and were the only two players to reach 20 runs, as the Goannas finished all out for 126.

The 4th Division teamhad eightGoannas in the first game, and only five for the second and third games, withsomefriendly help from opposition clubs.

In GameOne the Goannasplayed Canterbury (2) and scored 8/120.

Canterbury replied with 4/122.

In Game Two the Goannas were 3/118,Vic Country (2) made 4/120, while in Game Three the Goannaswere 7/129 and Ballarat made1/136. Better performancesfromGoannas playerswere 29 and 27 from Jim Armstrong,and 23 not out from Andrew Smith.

Smithalsohad the bestbowlingofthe week, with six overs, three maidens for figures of 1/3 in Game One.

Kel Bond and Dick Noble also took wickets during the week, while Mark Brown took two catches.

Badminton tournament asuccess First female MGRA chaircelebrated

BADMINTON

ORGANISERSofthe 2023 Sale-Maffra Badminton Association Veterans Tournament are hailing the event as asuccess.

The two-day competition took place on Saturday, March 18 and Sunday, March 19 in Sale. Clubs from across the state participated, including the Latrobe Valley,with 26 teams competing across eight grades.

Games were split between the Mick Mundy Stadium on CobainsRoad, and the nearby Gippsland Regional Sports Complex.

There were several close contests throughout the weekend, much to the delight of spectators.

Winnerswere announced on the Sunday afternoon, with trophies presentedbyWellington Shire Council Mayor, Ian Bye.

Among the winning clubswas Latrobe Valley Solar, victors in Grade C2; and Sale-Maffra, whose Grade Dteam were victorious in their section.

In apost on Facebook, the association thanked everybody who made the event possible, including Sporting Legends, Lyn Cooper from the Victorian Badminton Veterans Association, WellingtonShire Council, the SMBA committee and all the players who attended.

Next on the agenda is the Ballarat Veterans Teams Tournament, taking place on April 22 and 23.

GOLF

CHURCHILL ANDMONASH

2person Multi Saturday18th March 2023

Winners: J. McCafferty&C.Sterrick79

RunnersUp: A.Sharrock &R.Welsh 75

D.T. L: 1. M. Allen&G.Corponi 68, 2. C. Warring &L.Anderson 66, 3. D. Ellwood & C. Hogbin 62, 4. S. Caldwell &C.Stevens 62

N.T.P Pro-Pin: 3rdF.Keighran, 5th V. Reid,

12th M. Lugton, 14th B. Rowley

Target Hole: R. King

Birdies: A. Sharrock12th, C. Warring12th

StablefordTuesday21st March 2023

Winner: CarolBarnes 39 36 pts C/B

D.T.L: 1st Chris Stevens 37 36pts,2nd

MargMcQuillen 34 33pts

N.T.P: 3rdVanessa Reid, 5th Chris Stevens

12th Chris Stevens

MIRBOONORTH

Thursday23rdMarch.Stableford.

AGrade: JSmeriglio (15) 38pts

BGrade: MRichter (23) 40pts

DTL: PWoodall37, NWhichello,36, M Payne 35, SMcKenzie,33c/b

NTP: 6th, JSmeriglio

Birdies: 4th SMcKenzie,6th, JSmeriglio

MSnell.

Eagles: TBradshaw5th.

Saturday25th March Stableford, (Ray

Bickerton Memorial Day)

Daywinner: (C) Ben Mathews (18) 38pts

BGrade Winner: SBeitz (17) 37pts

AGrade Winner: BBradshaw(11)36pts

DTL: RJenkins 37,JSmeriglio,D Jerram, AWoodall36, PDraper ,RMatthews,R

Pentland 35

NTP: 4th DTaylor,6th AWoodall, 13th,B

Bradshaw, 16th,JKidd.

Birdies: 4th MWoodall, 6th, AWoodall, P Draper,RMatthews,16th, JSmeriglio,E Woodall, JKidd, PWoodall.

MOE

Sunday, 19 March2023 OPEN 9Hole

Stableford-Holes

Great guns: Local team Latrobe Valley Solar were winners of theGrade C2 section. Photograph supplied

2023Sale-Maffra Badminton Association Veterans Tournament winners

Grade A1: WesternSuburbs Extreme

Grade A2: Doncaster TemplestoweRamblers

Grade B1: Macedon Ranges Muppets

Grade B2: MightyMixed

Grade B3: Diamond ValleySapphires

Grade C1: Ahindas

Grade C2: Latrobe ValleySolar

Grade D: Sale-MaffraRoulettes

Overall Winners: Stanlake, Peter(10)19

Wednesday15& 22 March 2023 4BBB

Stableford

Winning Team 36 Holes: Alison Hay&

Jane Blandford89

Winning Team 1st round: Sandy Tate & Robin Fitzpatrick47c/b

NTP: 4th -GwenYoung,8th -Marj Lang

14th -EvMitchell

Winning Team 2nd Round: Ev Mitchell & PatThompson 41

NTP: 4th -Pat Thompson, 8th -Betty Wallis, 14th -Jane Blandford

DTL 1st Round: Kathy&Marj 47,Kaye&

Leahann c/b 46

DTL 2nd Round: Marj &Kathy40, Chris &Marj 38

Birdies: 1st Round -K.Borg4th, M. Lang

8th

Birdies: 2nd Round -Jane 14th

Target Hole: K. Shaw12th

9Hole Comp.Winner: Helen Mifsud 16

Thursday, 23 March 2023 OPEN Medley

Stableford

Grade AWinners: King,Rob (7) 37

Grade BWinners: Taylor, Amy(15)36C/B

Grade CWinners: Wolski, Ted(18)37

Place Getters: Winter,David 36 C/B

Cunningham, Steve36

VanDer Meulen, Luke35C/B

Jennings,Kenneth 35 C/B

Beath, Ken35C/B

Duncan, Ian 35

Fife,Mark35C/B

Spiteri, Paul 35

Griggs,Daryl 34 C/B

Devent, Anton 34 C/B

Poole,Joel 34 C/B

Harland, Bob 34 C/B

Weir,Charles 34 C/B

Nearest to Pin: 4th Chrissie Backman

8th PeterStephens

14th Callum Grant

Saturday, 25 March 2023 Brian Rankin

Memorial Day4BBBStableford

Overall Winners: M. Mifsud &J.Shaw52

AGrade: P. Spiteri& R. Dyt48

R/U: P. Gridley&D.Smith 47

GREYHOUNDSClubs Victoriahas applauded Dr BarbaraBackhoy as first female chair at Melbourne Greyhound Racing Association (MGRA).

Greyhound Clubs Victoria (GCV) believes International Women's Day (celebrated on March 8) was the perfect time to acknowledge and honour women who work tirelessly to improve the industry. In doing so,chief executive Brett Jones reiterated how thrilled the sport is to have anew female chairperson, and to acknowledge outstanding women across the greyhound industry.

"Barbara’s appointment as the first woman chair of ametro club, combined with GRV chair, Peita Duncan, Shepparton Club president, Tracey Fothergill, and club general managers Cynthia O’Brien (Healesville), Jodie Faralla (Ballarat) and Olivia Alcock (Traralgon), underpins the strength of female leaders in senior governancepositionswe have across the state,” Jones said.

Dr Backhoy said it was humbling to be elected.

“There is so much more women can do to help the greyhound industry be the best it can be. And, on International Women’s Day, there’s no better time to show that women administrators and staff in this, and any other sport, can make adifference,” she said.

Jones added, "Barbara is afantastic appointment as chair of The Meadows, and represents a significant milestone for the industry. This is an

SCOREBOARD

BGrade: G.Young &P.Young 49

R/U: E. Lau &J.Keily48c/b

NTP: 4th -J.Shaw, J. Lee,8th -A.Glen, B. Keily, 14th -D.Robinson, H. Stanlake

DTL: M. Fife &M.Killeen 48

L. Vandermeulin &J.Harber 47

L. Clarke &M.Lang 47 P. Trinidad &T.Piper 46

C. Dunstan &J.Engel 46

Sunday, 26 March 2023 OPEN Medley

Stableford

Grade AWinners: Pearce,Liam (23) 37 Place Getters: McMahon, Thomas 32 Sunday, 26 March 2023 Women’sPennant

Results -Moe versus Traralgon

Moe 4Traralgon 1

MORWELL

Ladies 22nd March 2023 -Doris

ChambersFoursomes

Winners: JWhite&L French 38pts

RunnersUp: NTePaa &D Vuillermin 35

pts

NTP: 8th DVuillermin 11th LFrench

TRAFALGAR

22/3/23 Women’sStableford

AGrade Winner: Lorna Risol (24) with 39 nett

AGrade RunnersUp: Cheryl Deppeler (23) with 37 nett

BGrade Winner: Aija Owen (27) on c/b with 36 nett

BGrade Runner-Up: Aileen McNair (35) with 36 Down the Line: Ange Bayleywith 35 points,JennyEvison with 34 points and Cheryl Toyne and BevKeilywith33points

NTP: 5th KarenMacGregor

Nine-Hole Winner: SandraLawler (38) with 22 points

Nine-Hole Runner-Up: Sue Balfour (41) with 13 points

Friday, March24th 2022, Open Men’s& Ladies Stableford

AGrade Winner: Ryan Harrison 43 pts

BGrade Winner: BarryWatkins 38 pts

amazing opportunity to lead the club through an exciting period for the sport. She has apassion for the welfare of racing greyhounds and first-hand experienceafter working as an on-track greyhound veterinariansince 2002 and as an owner of her own veterinary clinic".

MGRAannounced Dr Backhoy’s appointment earlier this year.

Expressing her gratitudeand appreciation Dr Backhoy said, “I’ve been in the industry for along time, and this is agreat honour. Greyhound racing is afantastic sport and I’m looking forward to bringing my love of greyhounds to awider audience."

Dr Backhoy has had aspecial relationship with greyhounds since she was achild. Her parents were trainers, so she spent many years playing with the puppies.

“I hadmyfirst dog when Iwas about 12 years old and did pretty much all the training with her myself,” she said.

Regular veterinary trips with the dogs, coupled with anatural loveofanimals, lead her to acareer as avet. It also sparked an intense interest in the welfare and well-being of greyhounds.

“They are awonderful animal, agreat pet, and they actually do love to run. Iwant to do everything Ican to ensure every greyhound is cared for, safely trained and raced and finds agood home in retirement,” she said.

DTL’s: Greg Evison 38,Paul Robertson

37,Bob Baldry37, NickPellatt36, Chris

Stanlake36, PeterHobson 36, Gus

Tangusso 35, Ian Fortune 35

Birdies: 5th: Chris Stanlake13th: Ian

Fortune

Saturday, March25th 2022, Par

AGrade winner: Jeff Hasthorpe +6

BGrade Winner: MickPoxon +3

DTL’s: PeterRhodes +3, Anthony Cunningham +2, Gregg Chapple +1, Phil

Town +1, Ian Charge +1, Brian McKenzie

+1, MarkHiriart +1

NTP’s: 2nd: Noel Cornish 5th: PeterMoss

11th: Noel Cornish 13th:Symon Lee 15th:

Gregg Chapple

TRARALGON

MENS: SATURDAY 4thMarch 2023

Players 29 Stableford– WhiteTees

Grade PlayerHcp Nett

1: Philip Watkins 30 41

40: BJones

38: JThompson LWatkins

37: JCatlin KHall

MENS TUESDAY 14th March 2023 Players

107Stableford

Grade PlayerHcp Nett

A: Thomas Northe 941

B: David Barker1239

C: Shaun Guttridge 17 40

D: AnthonyRichardson 27 42

40: RWare

39: MJones,MO’Neill, PBray, A

McDonald, GPearce,CJones

38: JSimic,RMcDonald, BFarley, A

Graham, MJones:1, DLyons,RJohnson

37: SBruce,FGaudiano,SChapman, D

Henderson

MENS SATURDAY18th March 2023

Players 1444BBB AggreateSford –Blue

Tees

Grade PlayerHcp Nett

A LukePollard1474

Lachlan Pollard

B BrettVan Berkel1675 MatthewStroud

5: IFleming RElliot

4: CThomson JThomson

3: SKay PClark

2: MJones :1 LPollard(S)

1: DCanning TDarby

Mens stablefordSaturday25/03/2023, Field: 133, Blue tees

Grades winners: ADoug Veldman 39 pts

BTyler Mudita42 pts

CMattTosh 39 pts

DRyanLaukens 36 pts (Visistor)

NTP: 5th: JaxonMudita

8th: Phillip Denhouting

10th:DannyTunevski

15th:Tyler Mudita

TuesdayStablefordPlayed: 21/03/2023

Field: 91,Whitetees

Grades winners:

A: David Barker 41 pts

B: James Hagart44pts

C: John Warren 41 pts

NTP

5th: Spencer Jeffery

8th: Lee James

10th: RichardPaterson

15th:Shane Bruce TENNIS

Gippsland Track Club at final meet

ATHLETICS

AHUGE night of racing fromGippsland Track Club athletesatthe final VictorianMilers meet, heldatthe Doncaster for the 2022/23season. Elly Flemingled the charge by breaking the two minute, 10 second barrier for the first time, to record atimeof2:09.06 to move up to number two on the all-time GTC 800m rankings.

Fifteen-year-old Elly has also recently won the Australian All Schools junior 800m title.

CassieFarley had abig breakthrough performance to win the CGrade 1500m.

Clocking anational open and underage qualifying time, Cassie also shot up the GTC all-time 1500m rankings to number four.

Kaydence Fleming stepped up in distance to the 800m to record anational qualifying time and a personal best of 2:22.12.

Rhylee Stewartcontinued his red hot form to clockapersonal best and anational qualifying time of 2:03.86.

Stewart'stimemoves him up to number 10 all-time over the 800m at Gippsland Track Club.

FullResults

Females

800m:

Elly Fleming2:09.06PB, NQ, #2 GTC All-Time

Kaydence Fleming 2:22.12 PB NQ

Ada Hill 2:24.11

Aleasha Read 2:26.35

Georgie Lindsay 2:34.62

Charlotte Cunningham 2:45.19

1500m:

Cassie Farley 4:41.14 PB, #4 GTC All-Time

Grace Graafsma 4:44.33 NQ

Anna Mulquiny 5:38.90 SB

Gippsland United off to the perfect start

BASKETBALL GIPPSLAND UNITED

THE Men travelledtoMullumMullumStadium on Saturday night (March 18) for their debut Division 1match againstWarrandyte Venom

In ahighly competitive game, the visiting team at one point held a16-point lead.

However the home team, led by their import, MichaelBirtII(25 points, 8rebounds) actually took the lead with five minutestogointhe fourth quarter.

That's when the experience of Billy Hughes and Jordan Canovan shone through.

With key defensive efforts and balanced scoring, Gippsland United finished the game eight points the better.

Just like last season, the bench depth of Gippsland United was again astrength, with the bench outscoring Venom's bench 15-9.

Oliver Amajoyi had an outstanding debut gamefor Gippsland United,finishing the game with 15 points and ahuge 16 rebounds.

Amajoyi also wasclutch at the free-throw line late in the game.



Local footballing stars in AFL action

FOOTBALL AFL

BY TOM HAYES

IN an oddnight at the Gabba,Yarram’s Josh Dunkleyregistered hisfirst win as aBrisbane Lion, as they held off the fast-finishing Melbourne Demons by 11 points.

Dunkley was one of the Lions’ best, collecting 26 disposals, laying five tackles and producing nine clearances.

Interestingly, the Gabba suffered apower outage in the final term which brought the game to ahalt for around 40 minutes.

When play continued, arather large portion of the stadium wasn’t completely lit, but aresult was needed by the end of the night.

The Lions survived alatefight by the Demons, winning 14.9 (93) to 13.4 (82).

COLLINGWOOD continuetosurge in 2023, demolishing the Port Adelaide Powerby71points at the MCG.

Sale’s Scott Pendlebury contributed well in the midfield, claiming 20 disposals, alongside six tackles and six clearances.

fashion. Richmond plays Collingwood on Friday.

The lead got to as small as one point in the final term, but the Tigers walked away as winners 17.6 (108) to 10.16 (76).

NORTH MELBOURNE were another team to survive alatescare, as they held off the Fremantle Dockers by apoint at Optus Stadium.

Sale’s Charlie Comben was back in action for the Kangaroos, but didn’t do much to say for himself on the night.

Comben finished the match with just six disposals and abehind, after spending 84 per cent of his time on the field.

Despite this, his side were able to hang onto their unbeaten record in 2023, winning 11.7 (73) to 10.12 (72).

IHIGHLY doubt that they’re ahappy team at Hawthorn right now, after the Hawks were embarrassed by theSydney Swans by 81 points at the SCG.

GIPPSLAND UNITED 71 DEF WARRANDYTE VENOM 63

THEWomen had to wait until Sunday to get their season started.

They too had to travel to Mullum Mullum Stadium to take on the Blackburn Vikings.

Reigning league MVP Chloe Hogg putthe first points on the board in Season 2023, and Makenzie Millerdominatedthe first term scoring eight points.

In an odd coaching move, Blackburn were full fronting Miller in the post which lead to some outstanding passes for open lay ups.

It was only that we missedsomesimple layups in the second term that kept the Vikings in the game.

The final 26-point margin was generous.

The United Women did well to hold composureinthe final term when the home bench got quite rowdy and the physicality stepped up.

To be fair, it was depth and chemistry that let the team down last year, howeverattimes in this game the ball movement and crisp passing was exceptional.

The bench outscored the home team 33-19, withMish Clarke and Alahna Arnason important.

Afantastic start with some really great signs for abig season.

Power: Glengarry’sEllyFleming had an outstanding meeting at Doncaster recently.

Photograph supplied

Males 800m: Charles Leahy 1:59.34

Rhylee Stewart 2:03.86 PB, NQ

Jett Schofield 2:06.87 PB

Alex Rajan 2:27.12

Andrew Crawford 2:28.33 PB

Glenn Crawford 2:35.51 PB

1500m:

Oscar Woodhouse 4:40.03 PB

Pendleburyset-up Nick Daicos for one of the highlights of the round, with an over-the-head handball, which allowed Daicos to stream inside 50 and slot agoal.

The Power were only really in the match for the first half of the first term before Collingwood kicked away and flexed their muscles to win 21.9 (135) to 9.10 (64).

ADELAIDE Crowssufferedback-to-back losses when Richmond Tigers visited them at the Adelaide Oval.

Maffra’s Sam Berry collected just the 11 possessions, laidfive tacklesand contributed with agoal assist in the Crows’ 32-point loss.

Despite athird-quarter come backwhere the Crows kicked five goals to one, the Tigers had enough will to get over the line in convincing

Atightlycontested first quarter was completely forgottenabout after theSwans went on arampage in the finalthree quarters, kicking 13 goalstotwo. Morwell’s Changkuoth Jiath played hispart, collecting 17 disposals, but the Hawks were clearly outclassed on the day.

The Swans go to the top of the ladder with a percentageof232.7,after winning 17.16 (118) to 4.13 (37).

THE Gold Coast Sunswere tasked with atall orderofthe Essendon Bombers, visiting Marvel Stadium, where they have failed to defeatthem on the previous five occasions.

The Suns stuck with the Bombersfor three quarters,going intothe final term with the scores level.

Morwell’s Ben Ainsworth collected 19 disposals and kicked agoal, while Moe’s Sam Flanders could only muster 11 touches.

The Bombers kicked five goals to one in the final quartertorun home as winners by 28 points; 16.12 (108) to 11.14 (80).

Afun introduction to the sport of hockey

HOCKEY

THE Latrobe Valley HockeyAssociation have alot to celebrate with the successoftheir very first representative team in the Victorian League competition.

The Latrobe Valley Men’s Vic League 3team, along with their coach Daniel Godfrey are gearing up for another finals appearance.

The Men’s Vic League teamfinishedfourthafter atough-fought semi final match against Melton in 2022

Their success continuedwithDaniel Lineen, Ian Goodwin and Daniel Godfrey being named in Hockey Victoria’s Vic League 3Team of the Year.

Inspired by this success the women of the Latrobe Valley Hockey Association, under the guidance of

coach Paul Cake, will make their debut in the Vic League in 2023.

The local competition pre-season is underway with asuccessful Hockey Roadshow in local primary schools, followed by asix-weekHookinto-Hockeyprogramattracting new juniors to the game.

In an exciting opening to the season, the Latrobe SyntheticSports FieldinChurchill was host to an action-packed Parents vs Kids match, followedby the seniorlightning premiership.

The junior players had the chance to show off their skillsagainsttheir parentsonSaturday morning in afun and competitive game of hockey, in which the parents just pipped the juniors 4-3.

The senior lightningpremiershipconsisted of teamsofmixedgendersand clubs, and saw some fantastic sportsmanship along withfierce competition.

After an entertaining Grand Final match between the LV Wolves and Moe, the LV Wolves came away with the win.

Local clubs, Churchill, Moe, Traralgon, and Traralgon Rovers have commenced pre-season training in preparation for the local women’s competition which begins on Saturday,April 22 at the LatrobeSyntheticSportsFieldatFederation University, Mary Grant Bruce Drive, Churchill.

The socialcompetition played everyFriday night provides afun introduction to players new to the game and has seen growing numbers every week. The Latrobe Valley Hockey Association welcomes new and experienced players.

Competitions available include juniors, seniors and social hockey.

For more information,call President Kelly Godfreyon0412079 981, or visit the Latrobe Valley Hockey Association Facebook page.

Squad: LVHA President KellyGodfrey with coaches Paul Cake (right) and Daniel Godfrey (left). Photographs supplied

Hustle: Action from the parents versus kids game on Saturday.

Head to head: LV Wolves and MoeAction from theVic Team of the year,Daniel Godfrey (centreback), Ian Goodwin,(thirdfromright) and Daniel Lineen (second from right)

Together: Players from the parents versus kids game on Saturday.

Gippsland United provide mixed bag

SOCCER GIPPSLAND UNITED

GIPPSLAND United versus Mornington has always been aheated competition and this was no exception.

Welcoming back GFCUs striker Trent Frost, the boys banded together and played an exceptionally strong game against the winners of the NPL 3 league.

GFCU havingthe majority of the ball in the first half, and headers by Spencer Boughton, Lochlan Pillay and Lucas Halden kept the ball in possession, resulting in the first goal of the game scored by Leeton Hilli assisted by Dylan Rosato.

The boys kept the pressure up in the second half surprising their opponents who thought it was going to be an easy win.

Working together they kept Mornington goalless for the majority of the second half but eventually they got one through our defences and followed it with asecond goal in the final moments.

The boys fought hard from beginning to end, showing that they are getting stronger with each game and again the score did not reflect the how hard they played.

 UNDER16S: GIPPSLAND UNITED 1DEF BY MORNINGTON 2

THEGippsland boys headed out to the park, with zero wins from seven games with arough start to their qualifying campaign.

They faced bottom of the table Mornington, who had alsostruggled, going 0-8 games cominginto thecontest.

It was Gippsland who came out from the get-go, with ChoCho Mohammed bagging his first goal of the season before pulling off an acrobatic celebration in the corner of the pitch.

Soon after, Ronald Kong scored a1v1 with the

Dribble: Brody Demagistris looks to find away past his opponent. Go long: JaredGoodwinlooks foranoption up thepitch. Photos supplied

goalkeeper and doubled Gippsland’s advantage.

In the last 20 minutes of the first half, Brody Demagistris was able to find the net via aheader from acorner, and a1v1 finish after adelightful ball over the top by goalkeeper Jared Goodwin. Heading intothe second half four goalsup, it was the Gippsland boys who remained well in control.

Abraham Konyi, aconsistent defender, found himselfinthe midfield to startthe secondhalf, and within three minutes of his new role, found the back of the net in beautifulstyle to make it five.

Mornington evened out the contest as the game got increasingly competitive towards the final 15 minutes, before Harry Humphries smashed the

ball in from close range to hit Mornington for six. Afirst cleansheet and afirst win for the Gippsland U18 boys, as they look to continue their form against Dandenong Thunder next Sunday.

 UNDER18S: GIPPSLAND UNITED 6DEF MORNINGTON 0

Falcons 2000 go clear on top Comm Games jobs pipeline

WITH three years to go until the 2026 Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria, the state government has launched ajobs pipelinethat aims to deliver for localworkers and businesses.

The Minister for CommonwealthGames

Delivery, Jacinta Allan, visiting the Victoria 2026 Netball venue in Bendigo, unveiled agoods and services procurement pipeline, which features more than 1200 opportunitiesfor localcompanies to win contracts.

“We’re delivering the first-ever regional Games, creating thousands of opportunities for local workers and businessesand cementing Victoria’s status as the major events capital of Australia,” Allen said.

The pipeline is worthhundreds of millions of dollars, covering everything from sporting equipment to medals,transport, security, catering, temporary infrastructure, marketing, telecommunications, IT and more.

“The 2026 Games are about so much more than sport -asweshowcase the best rural and regional Victoria, we will also be creating jobs, driving economic growth and delivering record housing and community infrastructure,” said the Minister for Commonwealth Games Legacy, Harriet Shing, Victoria 2026 will be the biggest event ever held in regional Victoria, with aroster of 20 sports and nine para sports, alongside majorfestival programs celebrating sport,art and culture in the five Games cities -Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, the Latrobe Valley and Shepparton.

With more thanone million tickets to go on sale, modelling carried out for the Commonwealth Gamesorganising committee estimates the Games will attract about 300,000 visitors from outside the host cities, including morethan 100,000 visitors each in Geelong and Ballarat, 50,000 in Bendigo and 25,000 in Gippsland.

The influx of visitors will provide aboost to local hotels, restaurants, cafes and retailers that, together with jobs pipelines, are expected to contribute more than $3 billion to Victoria’s economy, creating more than 7500 jobs before, during and after the Games.

In addition to the goods and services pipeline, the state government is investing in aconstruction works pipeline for four Games villages and competition venues across the state.

The Local Jobs First policyand the social procurement framework will create opportunities for local contractors and suppliers to win contracts and ensure the Games deliver strong social outcomes.

Regional engagement forums have begun and will continue in host cities.

To view the Victoria 2026 Goods and Services Pipeline,businesses can visit thehub at victoria2026.com.au/business

To register asupplier profileand learn more about state procurement, visit tenders.vic.gov.au

SOCCER LVSL

BY LAURIE WILLIAMS

ROUND2ofthe LatrobeValley Soccer League kicked offonSaturday night as Falcons2000made it two wins from two against amuch improved Monash and on Sunday Olympians nearly caused the upsetofthe round against Moe United, whilst therewerewins for MorwellPegasus and Sale United against Churchill and Tyers respectively. SATURDAY night footballreturned to Latrobe City Sports Stadium as Falcons 2000looked to makeitconsecutive wins against aMonashoutfit who pushed title fancy Morwell Pegasus all the way last weekend.

In what was alacklustregame, both sides started poorly but it was the home sidewho suddenly flicked the switch in the 20th minute that ultimately saw them win the contest off the back of adominant twenty-five-minuteperiod prior to the break. Afree flowing attacking move brought about the opening goal as new signing Liam Johnson astutely crossed the ball to striker Stefan Sbaglia as he was able to chest and volley the ball home to extend his goal tally to seven goals in two games.Soon it would be two as a well-worked corner routine enabled JamiePistrin to ping the ball acrossthe goal line whichMonash put in their own net. It would be Pistrin that would make it three, and early contender for goal of the year as his sumptuous volley from twenty yards dipped over the Monash goalkeeper and into the side netting.

In atale of two halves, theWolves came out firing in the second stanza and showed the spectators that the promising signs from their openingfixture were not aonce off. Leon Varasso, Ethan Lawrence and Adam Semple started to get busy on the ball and whilst they didn’t create alot of opportunities they certainly had Falcons on the back foot. They would soonget their reward as amix up in the Falcons backline saw ‘keeper Charles Simon bring down one of the away sides strikers. Semple made no mistake from the spot. Monash had one final chancewith only minutesremaining but Lawrence couldn’t convert.

Both sides lookedfrustrated afterwards, both for differing reasons; Falcons for taking their foot off the pedal and Monash for starting the season pointlessalbeit against twohighquality opponents.

 FALCONS 3DEF MONASH 1

PEGASUS, in their new look away strip, were too much for Churchill delivering a4-0 blow to the Rams in their first game of the season. Pegasus were awell-oiled machine and scored the fastest goal of the season when Levi Mahamoud slammed

one in from 15 metres at the 2minutemark. It was all possession for Pegasus who were giving the Churchill goalkeeper agood work out. Moni Eliaserwas prominentfor Pegasus whileMajok Deng, Dean Pyle and Andrew Demse were setting the pace for Churchill. The Flying Horsemen found their secondafter astrongrun by Kuku Mahmoud saw Aqulina Jok rise to head the ball in.Atthe other end, Pegasus ‘keeper Joel Thompson was tested in ashort spurt for Churchill. It would soon be three as Eliaser crossed to Mahmoud who duly converted. Athree goal first half was supplemented by asolitary goal in the second half after acorner from Sean Ngwenye-Nyathi landed in the box but went in for an own goal coming off aChurchill defender. Churchill attackedlateinthe game but were foiled by the energeticThompson who ensured his side kept their first clean sheet of the season. Churchill’s Mitchell Azlin thought his headerwas successful in the dying moments but the offside flag was up denying him his name on the scoresheet.

 PEGASUS 4DEF CHURCHILL 0

MOE United were keen to get their campaign off on the right note against an Olympians side looking to restorepride afteraRound1loss. The Red Devils seem to be the team on everyone’s lips as they’re expected to make astrongpush for league title honours. Footballisafunny game, and it was proven correct yet again as asteely Olympians outfit continuallychallengedthe home side as it took an 82nd minute winner to allow the Moe supporters and player alike acollective sigh of relief as points dropped in their first game of the year would’ve been disastrous.

 MOE1DEF OLYMPIANS 0

SALE came back with avengeance after their first round defeat as they comfortably accounted for the travelling Tyers.The Swans seemed to enjoy the easier contest and their 5-1 victory was reflective of theirdominanceofthe game. Tyers did manage to score their first goal of the season which provided small solace in what was otherwise atough day at the office.

 SALE 5DEF TYERS 1

ROUND 3(SENIORS/RESERVES)

 PEGASUS VNEWBOROUGH/YALLOURNSUNDAY 3PM

MATCH of the Round honours goes to the Pegasus andNewborough/Yallourncontest on Sunday. The Combine, fresh off the bye will look to really put Pegasus through their paces and try and solidify

their round 1win. Pegasus are two from two but will find this match amuchharder challenge.

 FALCONS VCHURCHILL -SATURDAY 7PM

FALCONS have their secondsuccessive night match,this timeagainstChurchillwho were mauled by Pegasus last weekend. Falcons are on top of the ladder and have scored eleven goals in two games in awell-functioning forward linewhich is still yet to welcome back star Nonda Lazaris as his minutes havebeenmanagedoflate. Wordout of Falcons is that he is closetofull fitnesswhich will have their upcoming opponents nervous. Churchill will always put up afight which will ensure the contest will be awell fought one.

 MONASH VSALE -SUNDAY 3PM

THEhard luck story of the year thus far is surely Monash. In what can only be described as abaptism of fire start to the season in playing Pegasus and Falcons, they find themselves on zero points but rest assured they will be no easy beats this year.Round 3provides them agolden opportunity to get their first win of the season against Sale.

 TYERS VFORTUNA -SUNDAY 3PM

IF Tyers found last week tough then they’reinfor arudeawakening on Sunday as they host title aspirants Fortuna 60. Fresh from aweekend off the tools, the Orangemen will be champing at the bit to send amessage to their league on Sunday and by all rights should win comfortably. Tyers will be looking to put up afight and their previous two games have shown that they certainly won’t shirk the challenge.

WOMEN’S FIXTURE

 FALCONS VCHURCHILL

 MONASH VSALE

 PEGASUS VNEW/YALLOURN

 TYERS VFORTUNA

 TRARALGON CITY VMOE

2ND DIVISON FIXTURE

 SALE WHITE VFORTUNA

 TRARALGON CITY VMOE

 MONASH VSALE GREEN

Premiers decided in local tennis

TENNIS LVTA

THE 2022-23 junior tennis season involved 53 teams, consisting of 200 players from 11 clubs across the Latrobe Valley Tennis Association.

The league had nine sections this season with players aged six to 18 years competing.

“The matches this year were closer than ever,” LVTA president Sally Kirstine said.

“Approximately20per cent of the matches each week were decided by game difference.”

The Hotshots sections, withmodifiedrules and low compression balls, enables tennis to be accessible to the younger children.

All players need to be congratulated for their efforts and sportsmanship throughout the season, along with all of the club volunteers and coordinators who assisted at the various clubs.

The 2022-23 senior tennis season involved 14 teams, consisting of 50 players from 10 clubs across the Latrobe Valley.

This season saw the introduction of a2-a-side singles competition, with each player playing rubber of doubles and one singles set.

We also had the 4-a-side doubles competition, where players played three doubles sets each.

Anyone interested in being involved for the next summer season, contact Sally Kirstine on 0403 282 630.

The GrandFinals were held on Saturday, March 26.

“We had greatweather and someexceptionallyclosematches, in bothjunior and senior matches -just what aGrand Final should be,” Kirstine said.

Anyone interested in getting involved in tennis, contact your local tennis club or search Hotshots at hotshots.tennis.com.au

Throughout April to September, the LVTA will be continuing the Tuesday night social tennis, held at Morwell Tennis Club, starting at about 6pm.

Players come and enjoy some social sets of tennis, finishing around 7.30pm.

Beginners and advanced players (teenagers and adults) are welcome at acost of $5 per night. CallSally formore information,withthe number previously provided.

Junior Grand Final Results

Section 1: Traralgon Green (3-28) def

Traralgon Maroon (3-27)

Section 2: WillowGrove (3-28) def Yinnar

(3-25)

Section 3: Yinnar (4-33) def Traralgon

Maroon (2-25)

Section 4: Churchill (5-34) def PaxHill (1-18)

Section 5: Moe (6-36) def PaxHill(0-13)

Section 6: PaxHill(6-36) def Morwell Black

(0-15)

Section 7: Moe White(4-23) def Churchill (2-18)

Section 8: PaxFlynn (3-18) def Yinnar Black

(3-18) via playoff

Section 9: Moe (6-24) def PaxHillWhite (0-5)

Senior Grand Final Results

Section 1- Singles: Team Rosewall (3-26) def Team Newcombe (2-23)

Section 2- Doubles: WillowGoveGreen (5-46) def WillowGrove Gold (1-28)

Mates: Seniors Singles winnersMattand Scotty

Fellas: Section 1runners-up Ethan, Henry, Max and Charlie.

Together: Section 6winnersWilliam, Jack and Danielle pose with their opponents Rory, Ayden and Mackenzie

Silver: Section 8runners-up April, Charlotte, Bath and Jayden.

Young guns: Section 8winnersAnnika, Spencer,Payganand Grace

The best: Section 1winnersClaudia, Asme, Candice and Ella. Photographs supplied

Everyone: SeniorsDoubles competitors (backtofront,lefttoright) Lochie,Ray,Von, Glen, Phil, Rebecca, Barry,Brad, Matilda and Belinda.

Gold: Seniors Double winnersBelinda, Matilda, Barry, Lochie and Brad.

Mob: Section 9winnersBastien, Charli, Lilly and Adaalongside their opponents Amelia, Levi and Rylen.

Team: Section 2runners-up Nic, Paddy, Abby and Xavier pictured with thewinnersHamish, Tillyand Lily.

Grinners: Section 2winners Hamish, Tilly and Lily

Almost: Section3runners-up Hannah, Josh and Max.

Happy: Section 3winnersOli,Rose and Lottie

with runners-up Taylor,Macen, Khoi and Josh.

Premiers: Section 5winners,Archie,Aris, Bodie andJackson.

Trio: Section 5runners-up Madie,Abbie and Lincoln

In unison: Section4winners Jake, Lachlan, Jess and Tyler with the runners-up Willow, Dylan and Savannah

Squad: Section 7winners Hunter,Jaxon, Phoenix andHarry pose

Gippsland League expands

Twosets of rules in play

NETBALL MID GIPPSLAND

BY ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

THORPDALE'S motion to compete in the Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League without fielding an AGrade team waspassed at a league meeting earlier this month, while Hill End’s motion failed.

Mid Gippslandhave voted to waive the netball by law for Thorpdale this seasonwhich states all clubs must field asenior AGrade

When approached for astatement Robyn Saviage, secretary of Thorpdale Football Netball Club stated they became aware that they would not be able to fieldanAGrade side in December 2022.

“We wrote to the league as we had lostall our AGraders andhad been unsuccessful in recruiting, we knew by end of January that we would struggle,” she said.

Whenasked about HillEnd’sposition secretary Saviage stated: “We feel disappointed for Hill End.

We worry that they will be in asimilar position to us where by pushing players into A Grade that shouldn't be there and gettingwell beaten, they lose their desire to play netball alltogether or go somewhere they can play in alower grade.”

Krystal Lazzarotto HillEnd’snetball coordinator said Hill End have been talking to the league since last November, with the understanding they would not have enough players for an AGrade side

“It was decided…wehave to field an AGrade We don’t know what that looks like yet,” she said.

Speaking to MGFNL publicity officer, Rob Popplestonestated: “Club Delegates (on behalf of their clubs) vote on motions and based on that vote amotion is either carried or not.

“Thorpdale's was, Hill End's, was not.”

Mr Popplestone wentontosay thatevery club in every league experiences these hardships at some point whether it be issues with juniors, volunteers,senior numbers, facilities

or finances.

“The league and in fact all clubs meet and discussregularly varying problems and assist where possible,” he said. The league has arranged supportfromNetball Victoria and has also reachedout to players on club behalfthrough social mediaaccordingtoMr Popplestone.

Mr Popplestone saidthe issues at Thropdale andHill End are some of the most recent challenges that MGFNL have faced.

“But one which will be considered very seriously after further consultation before implementing astrategy,” he said.

For Hill End, their offseason woes don’t end at aplayer shortage. Their courts are being resurfaced, whichhas made it difficulttotrain and get players motivated in the off season.

Ms Lazzarotto also noted that the lack of a Hill End 17’s team has also made it difficult to develop young players to filter them into the senior grades.

Hill End are trying to get their netball program back up and running.

Ms Lazzarotto stated: “We are working ridiculously hard to retainour current players and not scare them off playingupbeyond their means and plan to try and recruit hard for next year.

"We don’t want to be in aposition as aclubto not be able to field acompetitive AGrade side, so we are doing everything we can to prepare for 2024 season.

"Whilst the courtsare not available,it’s already going to be hard on the club and we arejust trying to survive this year.

“It’s an amazing littleclub to be apart of and everyonehas difficulttimes,wewill all get through it together and camaraderie is high,” She said.

Thorpdale willtoo look to abrighter 2024, after having successfully recruited afew players for the next season and the club announced they are working with NetballVictoriaona strategic plan moving forward.

As for Hill End, they will have to face astrong Morwell East AGrade in theirfirst game of the season.

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

ALINTAEnergy GippslandLeague has expanded again in the lead up to season 2023 with the implementation of anumberofnew roles and programs to continue to develop and grow the organization and benefits for the member clubs.

During the off season the organization grew it’s resourcingtoinclude five key off fieldbusiness operations roles.

The Leaguealso introducedanew leadership roles for the boardofmanagement with Andrew Livingstone stepping into the chair role and Jodi Galea moving into the vice chair position.

Alinta Energy Gippsland League hasinvested heavily in becominga leader in the gender equality space and Galea’s appointment into the vice chair role along with the introduction of afemale board quota into the constitution is agreat step forward for not justthe League but community sportin Gippsland.

South Gippsland Shire Director of Economy and Community Renae Littlejohn became the newest member of the board of management when she was unanimously elected at aFebruary meeting of theboard and clubs.

The off-field business operations introduced three key new roles for season 2023.

BrandonMilburn becamethe second full time role appointed as he steps into the newly created League Operations Manager position. His role administering the on-field competitions and providing added club support is already reaping benefits early into the tenure.

Former AFL Umpire and EFNL Head of Umpiring Peter Carey’s role is assisting the Alinta Energy Gippsland League with the operational requirements for football umpiring and the relationship with the five umpiring panels who officiate matches for the League.

Carey willalsoplayanactive role in the tribunal structure for season 2023.

The League has also appointed anetball umpire development role that willplay akey roleindevelopingthe member club umpires and delivering a netball umpire program aimed at delivering new umpires for the League.

Robyn English steps into the role and in afirst, this role will overseeafurther threeonthe ground resources in each of the East, Central &West regions whileRobyn willprovide on the ground support to the Southern region.

These threenew roleswill join current general managerDanielHeathcoteand netball

From Morwell to the international stage

NETBALL

MID GIPPSLAND

BY ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

MORWELLEast’s veryown AGrader’sSienna Blair and her cousin Georgia Zammit will fly over to Malta to try out for the Maltese national netball team next month.

Both young women have close links to the country,With Zammit’sfather beingMalteseand Blair’s grandparentsemigratingtoMorwell in the 1960s. Blair is excited to represent her family heritage: “Mum will always say like ‘keep going with your netball, you might play for Malta, you might play for Malta’…all the time, and then here it is actually happening,” Blair said.

For Zammit she said her family was equally elated and proud.

The pair will fly out Saturday, April 8tostart training with theMalta side on the following Monday.

The pair will have the opportunity to attend a training camp in Rabat,inpreparationfor the tournament. The team willtrain threedays aweek, with an increasedtraining regime scheduled heading closer toward the European championships.

When askedabout AGrade netball the pair said: “Wemay miss three or four games if we’re selected for the international team.”

“We will be living over in Malta, we will be staying in probably,Sliemaand catchingabus to and from training.”

When asked if the cousins would have gone out on their own without each other for support Blair stated: “For me at least being freshly an adult and having to go overseas, yeah no. It’s goodto have Georgia”.

Zammit loves how sports can be the best equalizer.

“To note its harmony week this week, so multiculturalism Ithink it’s something that should be celebrated in terms of being able to provide access to an elite supporting community. I’m really excited to meet new people.”

“I think sport is something that bringspeople together, Ipersonally haven’t experiencedany racial slurs or commentary with regardstorace in the sport, but hopefully, connecting, talking about netball speaking about netball and engaging in

harmony week,Ithinkhopefully we can put an end to that sort of negativity.

“But, I’d love to be able to open doors for others, who may have experiencedthat personally as well,” Zammit added.

When askedwhatshe would tell heryounger self, Blair said, “I would say keep progressing and keep trying hard because you’ll neverknowwhere you could end up."

Europeanchampionships will beginonMay, 10 France, Gibraltar, Isle of Man, Israel, Ireland, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates,and Wales will all be competing alongside Malta which ranks 33rd in the world.

Traralgon’sJudi Buhagiar is well known in the Latrobe Valley netball community, being the Eastern region manager of Netball Victoria.

Buhagiar has beenMalta’s netball mentorfor the last three years, forwarding the thought of bringing the young women over to play for Malta.

“When Ifirst started doing it was alight-hearted conversation, you know we can get some players from Australia to go over there". For Buhagiar, she hadtolook no further than Morwell,asshe “always had Georgiaand Sienna in mind," she said.

“I’m Malteseobviously and Ihave acrazy passion for my parents and my heritage in fact Ihave six netball teams that Icoach at Traralgon netball association and it’s calledthe Melita Netball Club, Melita being another name for Malta."

Buhagiar noted that the trip will be quite costly for the trio.

“Mario Sammut, the president of the Latrobe Valley Maltesecommunitycentre, has been an enormous push and massive driver for fundraising.

"He put us onto an organisation calledthe Maltese Community Council of Victoria and they have a program called the Maltese Cultural Scholarship andtheyhave donated to us $2000 each toward ourairfares.”

The Maltese Community Centre Latrobe Valley has also generously contributed a$1000 donation toward the women's trip.

To raise moremoney for the netballer's, there willbeahightea fundraiser at Churchill FootballNetball Club roomsat2pm, Sunday, April 2. If you would like to book, call Linda Welsh on 0401 844 629.

Dream team: Gippsland League netball coordinator Carlie Dwyer,generalmanager Daniel Heathcote,league manager BrandonMilburn and umpires operations coordinator PeterCarey arelooking forwardtothe season ahead. The GippslandLeaguebegins this weekend.

Photograph supplied

coordinator Carlie Dwyer for the 2023 season. Dwyer has been in various roles with the League for over adecade and will be expandingher current Netball Operations Coordinatorrole in 2023 to help deliver some key programs.

Heathcote will be entering his eighth season overseeing the business operationsofthe Gippsland League and will continue to lead the off-field team.

“It is great to be in aposition wherewecan invest and implement more assets and programs especially in the umpiring and promotional space. Being able to grow theorganizationand our support to the member clubs and volunteers without any further financial cost to the clubs is asignificant goal to have achieved,” Heathcote said.

“As aLeague it is afocus to deliver actions on our words andstrategic vision by introducinga second full time role, expanding our netball administration resourcing, implementing umpiring roles for both football and netball while continuing to provide additional programs to the clubs.”

Off the back of asuccessful return to competition in 2022, the Leagueisexcited to deliver several key areas of support and programming to assist the member clubs and their volunteers in the future.

Some of the key initiatives include transitioning the netball administration system to PlayHQ at the request of the clubs, introducing added representative sport including an Intraleague event, implementing amatch review panel along with League funded equipment programs.

“In2022 we were able to supplyour clubs new runner, trainers and water carrier uniforms. This seasonwewill be supplying new volunteerfootball umpire tops, netball umpiringtops, additional runners shorts and access to new training netballs thanks to our major partner Optus," Heathcote said.