Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 7 June 2023

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Showing strength

By TOMPARRY

HEYFIELD was out in-force last week, hopingtobring nationalattentionto the native timber industry’s shutdown.

Acrowd of more than 200 people gathered in Apex Park on Monday, May 29 after hearing word that the Nine Network’s Today program would be filming in the area.

Federal Member for Gippsland

Darren Chester, Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye, Wellington Shire councillor Carmel Ripper and Australian Sustainable Hardwoods managing director, Vince Hurley were among the attendees.

Timberline General Store manager and owner, Allison Akerswas also in attendance, representing her business and the wider community.

Ms Akers toldthe Express shewas hoping that Heyfield can make achange.

“If the industry does get shutdown, and the mills struggle and they have to put staff off, it affectseveryone in the town,” Ms Akers said.

“It’ll be not justour business; it’s every business that’ll be affected.”

The gathering was hastily organised via social media, with most attendees -including Mr Chester and Cr Byelearning of it less than 24 hours before it occurred.

Although postsshared on Facebook instructed people to arrive at 2pm, the Today crew- consistingofjournalist Izabella Staskowski and avideographer -didn’t arrive until around 2.40pm.

Upon Today’s arrival, impromptu speeches of supportwere given by Mr Chester, Cr Bye and Mr Hurley on the banks of the Heyfield Pump Track, each earning applause from the crowd.

Questionswerethen taken from the crowd, with one “born and bred” Heyfield resident asking what the opposition’s business plan was“going forward”in the absence of anative timber industry. No clear answer was given, but Mr Hurley indicated that his business was diversifying their interests.

Another passionate attendee implied

thelocal representatives were all talk and no action, asking: “What are you doing for us?”

Othersheckled by asking why the state representatives,Tim Bull and Danny O’Brien, weren’t present at the event.

Mr Chester answered by saying both men were in Parliament, lobbying on their constituents’ behalf.

While it was the promise of national media coveragethat drew people to Apex Park, many in attendance used the event to vent their frustrations at the state government’s decision to bring forward the cessation of native timber harvesting by six years to January 1, 2024.

Cr Bye describedthe move as “a bit of adisgrace”.

“It’svery disappointingthat the Andrew’s (state) government …(has) given six months’ notice instead of the six years that it should have been, and rather thanactuallytrying to fix the industry, decided to shut it down early,”

Cr Bye told the Express

His sentiments were echoed by many on the day.

Smallbusiness owners Jason and Julie Weir -who travelledfrom Melbourne to attendthe event -noted that their business, which specialises in hardwood flooring, had planned to transition away fromnativetimber, but “in six years, not in six months”.

Truck driverJason Cook, who has been involved in the timber industry for more than 15 years, said he was“literallylost for words” regarding the decision.

“We were given atimeline (of six years) and now we’ve lost that timeline,” Mr Cook said.

“The rug’s been pulled straight from under us.”

Heyfield Timber Festival committee presidentFeliciaStevenson, whowas also in attendance, said the decision was wrong.

“We’ve got the most sustainable industry in the wholewideworldhere, and they want to end it,” Ms Stevenson said.

Continued Page 9

Photograph Liam Durkin

Federal flood warning network

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

THE federal government willinvest $236 million over ten yearstoestablish anational, reliable floodwarningnetwork.

Thefunding willbespentonpurchasingand upgradinghigh-priorityfloodgaugesthat are currently owned by local, state and territory governments in flood-prone areas.

Minister for the Environment andWaterTanya Plibersek said severe weather events, including floods, are becomingmore extreme and more frequent.

"When these events occur,peopleneed access to thebestavailable information, in realtime," Ms Pliberseksaid.

"Reliable flood warning will helpAustralians preparefor moments of extremeweather. It will keeppeople safer as they happen. And being better preparedwill,whenthe water recedes, helpreduce the financial impact of floodingon families and businesses."

The devastating Traralgon floods of the past two years would still be fresh in the minds of manylocals.

On Thursday,June10, 2021, at around 10 am, officials issued the evacuation order for Traralgon residents, but by then,anumber of homes along Traralgon Creek had already been overwhelmed by water as thewarning came fartoo late.

Following Emergency Management Victoria labelling the floods in Traralgon as awarning systems failure, this federal funding allocated to improvewarning systems has been welcomed by the Latrobe City Council Council said the announcementbyMsPlibersek and Minister for Emergency Management MurrayWattfollows asuccessful visit held with Mr Watt and SenatorCiccone to learn more about the effects of the 2021 flood and stormevent and ongoing recovery works in August 2022 Severallocal effected businesses, including Traralgon Centre Plaza management, were involved in the discussion sharingthe impacts experienced.

The Council presented Mr Watt and Mr Ciccone withopportunities to support infrastructure projects that wouldmitigatethe risksassociated withfutureflooding events

Opportunities still exist to support these efforts, including Stage Two of the FloodRecovery and Resilience Project.

Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan, was pleasedtosee some progress followingdiscussionsheldwithMrWatt.

“The development of areliableflood warning network was discussed with Minister Watt during hisvisit lastyear, so it is heartening to hear that the federal government will be making such acommitmentoverthe next decade,” shesaid

“Reliable access to flood forecasts and warnings are critical to help our communities prepare and respond to flooding events. We lookforwardto hearingmoreabout the networkand how it will improve emergency management in Latrobe City for the future.”

The Mayor also said that the council would continue to seek assistancefromall levelsofgovernment for the Flood Recovery and Resilience project as they continue to manage the effects of the 2021 floodand stormevent

Mr Watt said that early warnings were critical to keep peoplesafeand limit flood events’ physicalimpactsand costs.

“We’ve seen communitieshit by terribledisastersinrecent years, andthis investment will mean people are given time to protect themselves, their property and their land," he said

“The Albanese Government have heard the calls for anational solutionand thatiswhatwe are delivering.”

In apress release regarding the Inquiry into the2022FloodEventinVictoria, The Nationals memberfor Eastern VictoriaRegion, Melina Bath, spoke of the failure of the warningsystem in the Gippsland experience

“In Traralgon, the 2021 floods were devastating for the Gippsland community, due in part to thefailure of local warning systems that left hundreds of residents stranded when evacuation orders were issued far too late while flood waters werealready lapping at doorsteps," shesaid

“Thousands of residentsacross the region were left without power, some for weeks, and the clean-up took months."

Ms Bath saidareportreleased by Emergency Management Victoria in the aftermathofthe Traralgon floods found warning systems had failed flood victims, with one-thirdofresidents reportingthey did notreceiveany warning.

“Thisisclear evidence that someofthose on the ground weren’t watching the monitoring networkofproperly transferring the information to residents," sheadded.

For more information about the Flood Recovery and Resilience project andCouncil’s advocacy efforts, please visit latrobe.vic.gov.au/advocacy

For informationonthe Inquiryinto the 2022 Flood Event in Victoria, head to new.parliament. vic.gov.au/floodinquiry

Gippy Festival of Big Ideas

HELP shape the future of Gippsland at the inaugural Festival of Big Ideas from June 16 and 17 at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centrein Traralgon.

The free festival will feature an exciting line-up of speakers, panellists and engaging activities designed to inspire and challenge regional leaders, industry and the community to think big to put Gippsland on the map.

“Gippsland is arich, diverse and proud region. Thereisahistory of launching inspiring initiatives and businesses and supporting each other during challenging times,but not always at aregion-wide scale,” aFestival of Big Ideas spokesperson said.

“The festival will bring everyone together, from the community to industry and regional leaders to government representatives, to collaborate and support the development of big, bold and brave ideas for Gippsland.”

“We encourage all Gippslanders to attendthe free festival, share their new, big and exciting ideas that push the envelope, no matter how unusual or extreme, or simply listen to our speakers and panellists and be inspired.”

Some exciting keynote speakers include engaging physicist Dr Niraj Lal, who will talk about technology and how we navigate amodern world, and abig thinkers session featuring renowned scientist Dr Karl Kruszelnicki and futurist Steve Sammartino.

Joining these speakers aremany more panellists, feedbacksessions, free activities, interactive displays, EV show and shine, music, food and lots of opportunities to exchange ideas to help shape the future of Gippsland.

People can either participate as audience members with over 35 speakersacrosstwo days or get involved and pitch their ideas.

Registrations are essential, to register for afree two-day pass, visit tinyurl.com/festivalofbigideas Formore information aboutthe festival and the complete program, follow the Festival of Big Ideas on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.

The festival is sponsoredbyMine Land Rehabilitation Authority,AGL Loy Yang,Latrobe Health Assembly, Latrobe City Council, Latrobe Valley Authority,Federation University Australia, Alinta Energy Loy Yang B, TAFE Gippsland and Gippsland Water.

Old scars: The June 2021 stormand flood event ripped throughthe Traralgon community. File photograph

Yinnar abduction attempt

A45-year-old man from Moe handed himself into police last Thursday and is currently assisting with their investigation into an attempted abduction in Yinnar on Friday, May 5.

A30-year-old woman is thought to have been watching her 18-month-old child play on atrampoline at Centenary Park Yinnar at around1.45 pm.

Officers believe aman approached the child directly before snatching her and walking away.

The mother chased after the man and managed to release her child from his grasp.

The child had minor injuries, including scrapes on her arm and foot.

The manisthen said to haveescaped on foot towards the public restrooms.

The Yinnar South mum gathered her child and returned to her car, dialling the police.

Last Thursday morning, detectives published aphotograph of an individual they believed may assist them with their investigations.

Have youseenAntwon?

THE 16-year-old was last seen in Bairnsdale on Wednesday, May 31.

Antwon is describedashaving athing build, short dark hair and is around 157cm tall.

Police believe he may be travellingina white Audi SQ5 SUV with registration AEO239 in the Morwell, Traralgon, Churchill, Bairnsdale, and Mornington areas.

Police are concerned for Antwon’s welfare due to his age.

Anyone with information on Antwon’s whereabouts is urged to contact BairnsdalePoliceStation on (03) 5150 2600.

Purvis Road accident

AWOMAN died in hospital following atwo-car collisioninTanjil South earlierthis month. Emergencyservices were called to the scene on Purvis Road, to find astolen gold Nissan ute had collided with ablueHyundai Accent about4.30pm

The driver of the Hyundai sustained lifethreateninginjuries and was conveyed to hospital,

PoliceBeat with

Zaida Glibanovic

while it is alleged the driver of the gold Nissan ute fled the scene.

Sadly, a59-year-old Moe woman diedinhospital on May 19 as aresult of the incident.

A30-year-old Morwellman waslater arrested and later charged with dangerous driving causing death, failure to stop at the scene of an accident, failure to render assistance after an accident, commiting an indictable offencewhilst on bail and driving while disqualified.

TheMorwell man has been remandedtoappear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on June 1. For the current provisional lives lost tally please see https://www.police.vic.gov.au/road-safety-0.

Lowblowcharity robbery

ON Saturday, May 20 around 2.40pm, two male teenagers are alleged to have been verbally abusive towards aSalvation Army Charity Worker, who was collecting donations in abusinesscarpark in Sale.

Police say that one of the males stole adonation tin containing about $100 in donations, before leaving the area on apush scooter with the other male.

One male has been arrested in relation to the incident. Police are requesting any additional information or dashcam footage from the public that may assist in the arrest of the second male. He is described as Caucasian, around 13- to 15-years-old, 160-170cms tall, of thin build and wearing ablack-coloured beanie, black hooded jumper with awhite stripe down both sleeves, black tracksuit pants with white stripe down both legs, and white coloured shoes.

Both males were riding push scooters during the incident. Any information should be reported to First Constable Box at Sale Police

Station on 5142 2200, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Footage requested

HOMICIDESquaddetectives are appealing for public assistance following the fatal stabbing of aman in Sale that occurred earlier this month.

Investigators have been made aware that avideo of the incidentmay be circulating in the local community.

It is believed the video was originally taken on Snapchat. Police are urging anyone who has the video, or who has seen it, to contact Crime Stoppers, which can be done anonymously. The appeal for information follows an incident where police were called to the intersection of York and Macalister Streets about 1am on Sunday, May 7after reports aman had been stabbed.

Officers located a38-year-old man and immediately provided first aid until ambulance crews arrived, but he died at the scene. Sale man Spencer Shumski (20) was charged with murder later that day. He has been remanded to appear at Sale Magistrates' Court on September 19.

Guilty plee

LAST April, the two men accused of killing Jarrod Lovison, 37, of Moe, pleaded guilty, avoiding atrial.

Mr Lovison's body wasdiscovered on May 23, 2020, at Moondarra State Park, north of Moe, after police looked for him for 38 days.

Jake Brown, 31, of Trafalgar, Andrew Price, 49, of Moondarra, and Samantha Guillerme, 26, of Moe were charged in 2020 with Jarrad Lovison's murder. Samantha Guillerme's charge was reduced after prosecutors admitted she had no notion Mr Lovison would be killed. She was sentenced to three-and-a-half-years in jail, with anon-parole period of one year and three months, and became eligible for parole earlier this year.

In an amended indictment, the murder charge was lowered to manslaughter for Brown and Price who will again appear in court on June 9.

New women’shealth clinic set for Traralgon

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

LATROBE Regional Hospital will receive anew

women’shealth clinic under new promises from thestate government announced in the budget.

The Victorian State Budget announced a$71 millionpackagethat creates20new women's health clinics at public hospitals, including eight in regional Victoria, with one at Latrobe Regional Hospital.

Victorian Treasurer, MP Tim Pallas said, “This Budget boosts the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund by $300 million, so our regional and rural health services can be upgradedwith operating theatres and medicalequipment. Since this Fund began in 2016, we have financed over 480 projects and with today’s fundingboost, our investment will total $790 million.”

According to widespread research,gender equality contributes to better health. So, work to improve women’shealth is helped by gender mainstreaming that addresses women’s specific health needs.

The Victorian Department of Health says it works to ensure women have access to the full range of quality services that they need, and with this announcement of aspecific women’s health clinic at Latrobe Regional Hospital, the state government showcases acommitment to improving health outcomes for women in the region.

Member

for EasternVictoria

Harriet Shing said, “Regional Victorians should be able to get the healthcare they need, when they need it, close to home. Our investments in the West Gippsland Hospitaland Latrobe Regional Hospitalwill make sure they can.”

“For toolong, women’spain has been ignored, dismissed, or treatedlikeaniche issue.Our new comprehensive women’s health clinic at the Latrobe Regional Hospital will give women and girls the care theyneedfor acute and chronic conditions which often go undiagnosed,” she added.

Acomprehensive new women's health clinic at the Latrobe Regional Hospital will change the way women’s healthissues are treated,providing careand supportfor conditions like endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), perimenopause and menopause. Thiscomes ayear afterthe stategovernment established the Latrobe CommunityHealth Clinic in Morwell. The small clinic has served as awomen's sexual health and reproductive clinic servicing all of Latrobe Valley.

According to the budget papers the womens clinics will help overcome some of the barriers to treatment that women face such as cost, confidentiality, geographical location of services, cultural and communication differences. The clinics will mean women can access specialists –gynecologist,

urologist, along withspecialistnursing and allied health in one spot, making it easier and fasterto get the world–class care women need and deserve

The VictorianWomen'sHealth ServicesNetwork (WHSN) welcomed the budget announcements, recognising that the governemnt followed through on their election commitments.

WHSN Chair and Women’s Health Loddon Mallee Chief Executive Officer Tricia Currie, said thenetwork looked forward to working with the government to ensure the funding commitments in this budget were available for all women.

“We are pleased to see the Victorian Government commitment to women’s health,” Ms Currie said.

"The investmentinthe women’shealth clinics is most welcome and we look forward to future investment in primary prevention and health promotion because we know that this work stops illness.”

“Women are at the heartofmanyofthe objectives put forward in this budget, and it is vital the lived experience of women’shealthand wellbeingis centred in our work going forward.

Evidence submitted by the Women’s Health Services to the State Governmentin2022based on the Australian SocialValues Bank shows that for every$1ofprimaryprevention investment in the women’s health sector, the return on investment is $468.00 to the community in value.

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Study on materials recoveryfacility

AGL Energy has signed aMemorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Solar Recovery Corporation (SRC) for afeasibility study into establishing asolar photovoltaic (PV) panel materials recovery facility in the Latrobe Valley, as part of AGL’s commitment to repurposing AGL Loy Yang into the Latrobe Valley Energy Hub. SRCwill be the firstmanufacturing supply chain focussed organisation to explore being part of the site transformation which also includes plans for AGL to install agrid-scalebattery

AGL believes that valuable material reuse will be essential in the development of acirculareconomy and thatthe Latrobe ValleyEnergyHub is an ideal site to explore this opportunity.

The feasibility study will look at establishing a facility to remanufacture end-of-life solar panels at AGL’s Latrobe Valley Energy Hub.

The study willalsoexplore training and employment opportunitiesfor the localcommunity to build the new skillsets requiredfor the energy and manufacturing industries of the future.

AGL Energy Chief Operating Officer, Markus Brokhof, said the agreement marksanimportant first step in transforming AGL Loy Yang into an industrial renewable Energy Hubinthe Latrobe Valley as well, in linewiththeir ambition to establish acircular economy at our sites.

“In one of the most significant decarbonisation initiativesinAustralia, AGL has set an ambitious and accelerated path to decarbonisation -exiting coal firedgeneration up to adecade earlierby mid-2035, looking to develop 12GW of renewable and firming capacity by 2036 and repurposing our sites intoindustrialhubs. It’s clear that the world is changing, and so is AGL,” Mr Brokhof said.

“We are pleased to be partnering with the Solar Recovery Corporation to build arecycling facility at our Loy Yang site. AGL will also recycleour end-of-life solar panels at the company’s facilities as we work together to achieve alower carbon

future and build acircular economy.

“We are proud to be supporting SRC’s mission to find new ways to deal with end-of-life solar PV panels.”

SRCChairman, Rob Gell AM, said the signing of the MOU highlights that SRC is future focussed, and looking to expand operations to new regions in Australia.

“We’re excitedtobeexploring the opportunity to set up afacility that will recover valuable materials from end-of-life solar panels, and to potentially be the first manufacturer to be part of AGL’sLatrobe Valley Energy Hub,” said Mr Gell.

“SRC was founded as part of acircular solution

for end-of-life solar PV panels and to repurpose the materials for manufacturing industries. It feels fitting that we are working with AGL as partoftheirambitiontoreimagine the end-of-site transformation of AGL Loy Yang intoacleaner low carbon hub.”

As part of AGL’s Climate Transition Action Plan, the company is committed to repurposing former thermal sites in the Hunter, Torrens Island and Latrobe Valley into industrial renewable energy hubs, to support regional economic activity and create local employment opportunities.

Free vehicle registration for apprentices

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

THE state government has announced that apprentices will enjoy an ease from cost of living pressures with free vehicle registration starting next month.

Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Roads and Road Safety MelissaHorne on June1,visited theKangan InstituteinBroadmeadows to meet apprentices who will be eligible for free vehicle registration from 1July, saving them up to $865 every year.

The $10 million initiative is being delivered in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 to put more money back in Victorian apprentices’ pockets -and it will provide free registration to apprentices like carpenters, joiners, bricklayers, plumbers, electricians and chefs if their employer can verify that their vehicle is an essential part of their work. Theinitiative adds to anumberofmeasuresthe

stategovernment has already introduced to ease financial pressure for trainees and apprentices across the state.

Apprentices who need their car for work are already entitled to a50per cent discount on their vehicle’s registrationfee as part of the state government’sTrade Apprentice Registration Discount scheme -with over 12,000apprentices andtrainees currently taking advantage of the discount.

The scheme was introduced in 2016toreduce costs for trade apprentices needing to use their own vehicle for work purposes, and expanded to border communities earlier in the year -giving apprentices who live in Victoria but work in New South Wales and South Australia the same savings as those who live and work in Victoria.

TheGovernment has also made car registration more budget-friendlybyintroducing short-term registration, allowing Victorianfamilies to split

the cost of registration fees into smaller payments. Learnerand probationary licences and online testing are now also free, while drivers who have not incurreddemerit points or committed road safety offences in the three years prior to their licence expiringbenefit from thereintroduction of a25per cent discount on their licence renewal.

Mr Andrews said, “We’re backing our hardworking Victorian apprentices and helping ease cost of living pressures by making vehicle registrationcompletelyfree, saving eligibleapprentices hundreds of dollars every year.”

"This is allabout making it easier for our apprentices to get the skills they need for the jobs they want, Minister for Skills and TrainingGayle Tierneysaid. Eligible apprentices can apply for the free vehicle registration via the myVicRoads portalonthe VicRoads website.

Committed: AGLand SRC arecommittedtorepurposing LoyYang intoanEnergyHub File photograph

Crossword Puzzle No.8537

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. What sport was Merv Hughes aprofessional in?

2. What is the name of the currency used in Japan?

3. Who played the character of Hagrid in the Harry Potter movies?

4. “I think I’m gonna be sad, Ithink it’stoday…” These arethe opening lyrics to which 1965 hit?

TWO POINTERS

5. Which ‘C’ is an ornamental moulding running around the walls of aroom near the ceiling?

6. True or false. Australia is the world’ssixth largest country?

7. If Iwas in the Australian town of Port Lincoln, what state would Ibein?

8. How many degrees arethereinone and ahalf full turns?

THREE POINTERS

9. How many differently coloured sets of residential properties arethereina game of Monopoly?

10. Who created the cartoon cat Garfield?

11. Who played the part of Jon Snow in Game of Thrones?

12. What is the capital of Vietnam?

FOUR POINTERS

13. What two colours appear on the flag of Ukraine?

14. Who is CEO and founder of Facebook?

FIVE POINTER

15. Guess the Australian singer/songwriter.One pointfor each correct answer

HOW DID YOU FARE?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done;

Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement;

Hit the books.

New era begins at Carrajung Estate

By ZOE ASKEW

AT the end of awindy gravel road, hidden beneath the canopy of towering gum trees in Gippsland's Willung South, you will find Carrajung Estate.

Carrajung Estate, arural Gippsland escape.

For the past 30 years, Carrajung Estate, the 40-hectare property surrounded by the forests of the Strzelecki Ranges and astone's throw away from Ninety Mile Beach and Tarra BulgaNational Park,has been known to both locals and travellers from near and far as Tom's Cap Winery.

As the new year began, former owners Ann and Graham Morris, the pair holding ahighly regarded reputationfor their three decadesofimpeccable service,concluded their time had come,handing thereinstonew owners Ivy Huang and Rebeka Morgan.

"When we started[Tom's CapWinery,now Carrajung Estate], we had 100 acres of blackberries and bracken, so we've cleared, planted, built, landscaped, done absolutely everything ourselves over that period of time and of course, we had the restaurantand accommodation," Mrs Morris said.

"As much as we loved it, it was very tiring, obviously, after 30 years; we're not gettingany younger."

Mrs and Mr Morris were intent on passingon their business, part of their heart and soul, to someone who shared their values and love for the property after three decades, tens of thousands of hours, and hard work.

"It was imperative," Mrs Morris said.

"We had alot of people come through the place, most of them we weren't happy with, and we actually made amental and emotional decision not to sell to certain people.

"We reallywanted someone thatloved it; that was super important to us."

Business partners IvyHuang and Rebeka Morgan fulfilled Ann and Graham Morris' wishes.

"They had been out afew times, and there was one day they came, three of them, Ivy, her husband, Adrian and Rebeka, camefor lunch,and Itook them for awalk around the place; they had abit of alook, and you could just tell they were really, really happy with it," Mrs Morris said.

"Amongst themselves, Ivy, Adrian, Rebeka and her husband Johnactually make areally good team.

"I think they are great;I thinkthey will do a really good job."

Ms Huang and Ms Morgan, hailing from the state's capital,Melbourne, fell in love with Carrajung Estate, quickly fostering an ambitious vision to create aone-of-a-kind travel destination in the heart of Gippsland.

"We were drawn to this beautiful vineyard because of its stunning views, its gorgeous wines, and the incredible potential it holds," Ms Huang said.

"We saw an opportunity to create anew business adventure, one that would allow us to create a dream lifestyle for our respective families, share our love of wine and food with others and to build something truly special in this interesting part of Victoria."

Ms Huang and Ms Morgan, together with their husbands, took on Tom's Cap Winery in February and began making changes to fulfil their vision, starting with the name.

"Since taking over in February, we have worked tirelessly to transform CarrajungEstate into afun destination for everyone -families, groups and couples," Ms Huang said.

"Weinvested our initial efforts in renovating the restaurant and findinganaward-winning chef because we knew this was something important to the community and to Ann and Graham.

"We have also started renovatingsome of the cottages on site to create aone-of-a-kind country escape and ensure that every guest has an unforgettable experience.

"You will also see our newCarrajung Estate range of wines when you visitusinthe Restaurant & Cellar Door, which we are so excited about."

The dual-family operationwastednotimelaunching Carrajung Estate, openingthe restaurant doors just two months after taking over from Ann and Graham Morris on Friday, March 31.

While Ms Huang and Ms Morgan are new to the area, making atree change to operate their newly owned business, thepair are steadfast in their commitment to supporting local.

"At Carrajung Estate, we have astrong focus on all things local, from our produce to our wine," Ms Huang said.

"We believethatsupporting local farmers and producers is not only important for the economy but also essential for creating auniqueand authentic dining experience that truly reflects the flavours of the region.

"Gippsland has long been known as the 'food bowl' of Victoria, and we are here to celebrate and showcase that, and of course, lower food miles is better for the planet too."

Patrick Haney is the man behind the kitchendoor, responsible for the dishes that blend traditional techniqueswith contemporary twists and global influences.

Amaster of his craftwith more than 20 years of culinary experience, Mr Haney has honed his skills across acollection of USA and Australia's much-loved kitchens, including Sydney's Opera Bar and Cruise Bar's Dinner in the Sky and, most recently, The Growers in Shoalhaven.

"Pat is unlike any chef that Ihave ever met; he is thoughtful and considerate with everything he does in and outside of the kitchen," Ms Huang said.

"He thinks about where the food should come from; he drives out to meet our farmers and suppliers; he cares deeply about minimising wastage, what things we can grow here in the kitchen garden.

"He's even into beekeeping.

"He's quite special.

"And,ofcourse, his food sets itself apart with his dedication to highlighting local ingredients in new and innovative ways.

"We are really lucky; he's areal gem."

Chef Haney is continually experimenting with new ingredientsand techniquestoproduce distinctive dishes that celebrate the flavour of the region.

"One of our current favourite dishes include the Gippsland Wild Venison, served with black garlic mash, local mushrooms and jus," Ms Huang said.

"It is so flavourfuland soft;itmelts in your mouth."

Construction is underway at Carrajung Estate, with Ms Huang and Ms Morgan enthusiastic about what is in store over the coming year.

"Guests can expect to see all the cottages fully refurbished with sustainability upgrades that minimise our footprint," Ms Huang said.

"Our restaurant will continue to innovate with our ever-changing seasonal menu made with local ingredients,aswell as arange of exciting events and activities that will showcase the best of what this region has to offer."

For Ms Huang and Ms Morgan, Carrajung Estate is more than just aplace thatserves deliciousfood and great wine. Carrajung Estate is an experience.

"We want our guests to feel like they are part of something special and constantlyevolving," Ms Huang said.

"We aim to provideahomely spot thatisrelaxed, welcoming, and immersive, where families and friendscan come and create memories together and celebrate special moments."

It is no easy task for Ann and Graham Morris to let go of 30 years,threedecades of memories and hard work, but knowing that living up to the former owner's expectations and standards is at the forefrontofMsHuang and Ms Morgan'soperations is awelcomed comfort.

"It's great, and we are both really happy to help because it's so important that it all flows through really nicely," Ms Morris said.

"You always have teething problems, and you'll alwayshave the odd little hiccup, but if you can sort it fromaclient's point of view and you're respectful to everyone, they're going to really enjoy it.

"People are going out to have areally nice day, so youtreat them nicely, and you're friendly, and you give them alittlebit of time,and that's not always easy whenyou're really busy, butyou've got to be able to talk and runatthe same time.

"Soit'snicethat theyconstantlyask [for advice], and Iamvery, very happy to help."

The former Tom's Cap Winery owners were among the guests who dined at the Currajung Estaterestaurant during the first week of operation, relaying positive feedback about their experience.

"We had areally nice day," Ms Morris said.

"Lunch was great, we had agroup of family and afriend of ours, and it was nice; they were really busy."

For Ivy Huang and Rebeka Morgan, the ultimate dream for Carrajung Estate is to create aworldclassdestination that showcases the best Gippsland has to offer.

"Wewanttocreate an experience that is not just about the food and wine but also about the natural beauty of the region, the history and culture of the area, and thewarmth and hospitality of the people who call this place home," Ms Huang said.

"We are incredibly excited about what the future holds for Carrajung Estate, and we invite everyone to come and see what we are creating and join us on the journey as it unfolds.

"We also invite local growersand farmers to reach out if they have great produce we might be able to showcase in our restaurant."

Formoreinformation about Carrajung Estate, visittheir website: https://carrajung.com.au/

Stunning: Views of Carrajung Estate from the restaurant’s outdoor dining patio Photograph: Zoe Askew

Innovative tech wins national award

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

ON Wednesday May 24, Morwell Business Alternate Energy Innovations (AEI) won the best agricultural energy management project at the 2023National Energy Efficiency Conference in Sydney.

The Latrobe Valley-based technology company received national recognitionfor theirworkonthe Wilandra Farms Irrigation project.

Devin Soutar, co-founder of AEI, spoke to the Express about winning the national award.

“As astart-up company in aregional area, sometimes it can be abit of ajourneytoget to some of those early milestones, so it’s always exciting when you get recognisedafter all yourhard work.”

“We’re an energy tech and agrarian tech energy company that is developing behind-the-meter energy solutions for the agriculture sector thatintegrate irrigation process with energy cost dynamics,

and as aresult of that, we can achieve irrigation results for farmers in the most cost-effective way automatically,” he said.

The Wilandra Farm Project showcased some of AEI’s most innovativeways to use renewable farm energy in irrigation.

The WilandraFarms located in Clydebank, near Sale, milk about 350 cows year round.

In 2019, the farm conducted an energy audit to find their irrigationand dairy operations were using about 500,000kWh of energy ayear.

Since then, Wilandra Farms have implemented initiatives to reduce power usage,teamingupwith AEI for asignificant project in relation to power usage and alternate energy.

“Our technology was installed in that farm along with some renewable sources, so some wind turbines,some solar and asmall amount of batteries,” said Mr Soutar.

The WilandraFarmsIrrigation Project began in early 2021 after the farm found that irrigation used about 71 per cent of its total energy usage; AEIand Wilandra Farms developed aRenewable Energy Action Plan (REAP).

The REAPinvolved the installation of 200kW of solar energy, 56WH of batteries and four 5kW wind turbines.

Most innovatively the REAP involved the installation of AEI's intelligent 'AEI SmartBox' systems,allowingfor each irrigationand pumping component to be fully automated, controlled and monitored.

In addition, there was the AEI App, which allowed for Wilandra Farms to monitor and operate farm irrigation systems via smartphones, with the additional ability to schedule each centre pivot irrigator up to three days ahead.

“You might say our technology is renewables with abrain that addsalayer of intelligence to sort of integrate renewables into operations,” Mr Soutar said.

“Typically, peoplejustput renewables in, and they’ll think that willjust solve theproblem for them, but you have to be able to integrate those renewables with your operations to implement those renewable strategies successfully.

“In scenarios wheresolar was previouslynot suitablefor agriculture, our technology and its intelligence can change that equation.”

Farmers can usethe innovative AEIapp as the operationalinterface, allowingthem to set their irrigation requirements from anywhere and anytime.

Thenthey can rest easyknowing theirtargets canbemet in the most cost-effective way.

During 2022’s irrigation period at Wilandra Farms, the AEI system managed the operation of each irrigation and pumping component using renewable energy on an average day in excess of 94 per cent, minimising grid usage to below six per cent.

“The savings we’ve achieved are quite significant, so in the Wilandra example, being able to reduce annual irrigationcosts from $80,000 to $1000 (per annum),that’s obviously something that without intelligent technology, you wouldn’t be able to achieve,” Mr Soutar said.

Not only is AEI’stechnology reducing farming costs, but it also saves time and the environment.

“Farmers are notoriously busy people, so when they can get alittle bit of time back, it’s very valuable, and then the technology being able to reduce the amount of grid energy usage allows the farmer to haveamuch more carbon emission-friendly operation,” said Mr Soutar.

“Climate change, Ithink we all know, is sort of abig issue, so for families, our grandkids and children, it’s important that we have sustainable energy and food supply moving forward,soputting our technology in placecan impact both of those aspects.”

The Soutar’s recognised that renewable energy

and rural farming have not often gone hand and hand.

“Agriculture and renewables have notoriously been abit of amissmatch,and shifting irrigation loads to the middle of the day can actually result in farmerspaying more for powerasitexposes them to peak energy periods, but our technology allows for that not to happen,” Mr Soutar explained.

AEI was founded in 2018 and is an innovative engineering and energy technology company whose core business is developing and implementing sophisticated energy solutions.

The Soutar family went into the business off the back of the patriarch Stephen Soutar’s innovative ideas.

“My father and co-founder Stephen Soutar is a systems and automation engineer who’s worked in the water and wastewater industry for the last 25 years, so he’s just applying that skill set to energy and renewable energy in the agriculture sector and my brother Joel is also aco-founder as well,” he said.

“Steve has been innovating for along time, and as his son, I’ve watched him do that, and now being able to supporthis innovationtoreach much higher heights, that’s probably what motivates us the most.”

Some say family and business don’t mix, but the Soutar family always makes it work.

“It’s not always smooth sailing, but some robust discussion can help things progress; it’s fun times and at least you know the people you’re working with and how they tick; sometimes it can be a double-edged sword,” he laughed.

When asked who gets to keep the award plaque, Devin Soutar said, “It’s sitting in Mum and Dad’s house at the moment, so pride and place".

Though AEI received nationalrecognitionfor their ground-breaking innovation at Wilandra dairy farms, the tech company are still striving for bigger and better.

“Our plan is obviously, being located in Gippsland, is to launch our product over the Gippsland dairy market initially, then afterwardsgaining some capital investment hopefully launchthat intoother agricultural rich regions across Australia, and I

guess if all things go well hopefully launch the product overseas,” Mr Soutar said.

Wilco Droppert andSandraJefford, owners of Wilandra farms, spoke of the positive outcomes of their forward thinking and use of AEI technology.

“It has been avery positive outcome; it’sbeen thatencouraging, and we’re looking at doingmore projects,” said Mr Doppert.

“We had huge energy bills,particularly for the irrigation side of the business, particularly those very dry years, then we decided we wanted to generate as much energy as possible rather than using grid power,” Ms Jefford added.

“Thisisthe firstfarmwhere he [StephenSoutar] had installed this system, so we were really lucky that Wilco had to happen to be talking to someone saying, ‘this is what we want’,and there was a company close by here in Morwell that was ready to have agoatthat sort of thing.

“Oneofthe things we had to do was automate our pumps and our pivotssowecouldget communication with all thosecomponents, so it’s saving us between maybe 15 to 20 hours aweek in the busy irrigation times.”

“It also means we get to sleep better at night because we now do most of the irrigationduring the day rather than at night because the old system, if apivot stopped, the water would keep coming out of the pivot …ifa pivot was stopped and we didn’t realise because we’re asleep, the water would just keep making the wet place even wetter.

“We’ve got better water use, we’ve got time savings, and we’ve got reduced emissionsbecause we’re using our own clean power.”

Ms Jefford and Mr Droppertwouldliketo encourage other farms to take on innovative and conservational practices in their operations.

“Evenifyou don’t believe in climate change, if you can reduceyourbills and improve your lifestyle, why wouldn’t you do it?," Ms Jefford said.

Winner: Stephen Soutar’sinnovativetechnology wonhis companythe best agricultural energy management project at theNational Energy EfficiencyConference Photosupplied

Smart: Wilandra Farms looked to minimise grid energy usage and has drastically cut their irrigation costs

Locals up in armsovertimber

From Page 1

"I DON'T see the sense behind it, and we haven't been shown the science behinditeither, so it's devastating."

Objections to the move weren't just vocal -signs with slogans and messages of anger were carried by asmall number of attendees, while others were hung on trees surrounding the Timber Workers Memorial.

Someplaced blame for the decision withthe Greens party; aselect few directed their wrath at Premier Daniel Andrews.

The grassrootsevent transpiredafter local resident and musician Mick Harrington uploaded avideo to social media, criticisingthe government's move to cease native timber harvesting at the end of the year.

In the video, Mr Harrington accused the government of caring "more about inner-city Greens preferencesthan they do aboutrural Victorian families".

"They don'tmindifsmall communities like Swifts Creek, Heyfield, Powelltown and Orbost cease to exist, andI'vebloody had it,"MrHarringtonsaid. Hisposting of that video resulted in him being contacted by producers at Today.

Mr Harrington -who is also director of lobby group Forest&Wood Communities Australia, and aformer candidate for The Nationals at federal and statelevels -saidthat Today's visit means that "there's someone listening".

"Politiciansfromthe Labor state government won't get out of Melbourne -they won't consult with us," Mr Harrington said.

"Dan Andrews won't come and talk to our community,soIneed to get the message, and we need to get the message into the capital cities."

Ms Stevenson indicatedshe was pleasedthat Heyfield was getting nationwide attention, but added, "We've got to keep it up as well."

Ms Akers was less enthusiastic, saying the coverage was "a little bit late".

"It's good that the media arehere, but it'stoo late -weneeded media really making astancefor this along time ago," she said.

Izabella Staskowski'sreport aired the following morning on Today, which sought to highlight the human costofthe native timber industry's shutdown.

In one of the more prominent scenes from the story, primary schoolstudent OliverJones

teared-upashediscussed the possibility of his dad losing his job.

Ms Staskowski concluded her report by noting that she used to live and work in Gippsland, and thattowns like Heyfield"couldbewiped off the map if there's no employment and there's no support”.

"They want answers, they want support, and they certainly want politicians to go out and speak to them," Ms Staskowski said.

"I can tell you this: they will keep up their fight.

They will band together and do what they can to support their local communities and their way of life."

Speaking after the story aired, Mr Harrington described Today's reporting as "very fair".

"I don't think it's going to change the mind of our stategovernment -that's not going to happen-but in the interim, we're hopeful that it will make them see the need for adequately compensating and helping these communities,"MrHarrington said.

All ears: FederalMember forGippsland Darren Chester listens to studentsfromHeyfieldPrimary School as the TodayShowcrew watches on

Photograph TomParry

Future of Hazelwood open cut mine

By PHILIP HOPKINS

THE Hazelwood open cut mine can be glimpsed fromthe highway, but aview frominside the mine shows the true size: it's massive.

The mine void is 1281 hectares in size and 70-130 metres deep. If the currentfavouredoption -a lake -isnot favoured, it would require more than one billion cubic metres -10cubic kilometres -of material to fill it.

This is comparable to the estimated amount of material excavated over the mine's many decades of operation. If soil were used, the mine owner Engie says, it would have to create alandform thatismuchhigher thanthe mooted 45-metre "full" lake level to ensure drainage and to account for potential subsidence.

The Environment Effects Statement to plot the mine'srehabilitation andfuture willalsobe prettymassive. Launched in October 2021, the two-to-four-year process will require 15-20 technical studies, ranging from climate, groundwater, geo-technical issues, noise and vibration, says the EES manager, Adam Moran. Mr Moranexpects it to be completed towards the end of 2024, with recommendations shortly after that.

Looking over the vast mine, sprinklers are busy keeping the exposed coal cool and reducing fire risk, while work continues on creating morelandscaped battens on the mine slopes; the exposed coal and clay are seeded with top soil and the resulting green grass makesitmore stable and "more aesthetically pleasing".

Akey issue for avisiting team of journalists is what to do with the ash waste sitting on the floor of asection of the mine. Ash is the incombustible solid residue from the combustion of coal.

Engie's environment manager, David McGavin, said the ash was mostly sulphates and salt. "They're the principle concern. Most of the base metals you find in coal will be in there, but the higher levels we need to studyand investigateare the sulphates and salt," he said.

The EES would look at all the options, such as taking the ash out of the mine. "That's not the stock rehabilitationoption through the EPA licensing. Any environmental harm that could come from that needs to be factored in," he said.

Mr McGavin said therewereanumber of options if the ash was to be capped. For landfill rehabilitation,there was astandard EPA licence approach "we have to go throughlandand will be fed into the EES process". Through the EES, "we must make something that is non-polluting".

"There are many options. If it will create pollution -the service water, ground water -then we can't do it. It's unknownhow long the rehabilitation will take,"' he said, as how rehabilitation would feed

into an EES had never been done before. "The time frames are unknown at this stage. The best part of the EES process is the additional scrutiny, the scientific expertise."

Mr McGavin said there were already prescribed regulations that Engie had to comply with regardingrehabilitation options. "At the end of the day, we must ensurethe options include anon-polluting land form,"hesaid. "The rehabilitation of ash landfill is normallythrough encapsulation.The technical specialists, the engineers are still going through that. Ican't tell you how it will be shaped."

The modelling and the assessment were being done by the engineers. "There are various waysgeomembrane liners,clay, multiple layers -all best practice from the EPA. Our experts will work with them to see which cap works best. Every landfill is different," he said.

Mr McGavinsaidwith the proposedlakesurface

45 metres above sealevel,the ash "will be below the water level". Mr McGavin was queried whether any contamination could leech into the ground water or lake. "I can't say-thatisa risk thatwill have to be assessed. There are ahuge amount of technical studiesand assessments investigatingthose risks. Various regulatory bodies are very interested in thatquestion and Engie itselfwantstounderstand whether that could be arisk," he said.

Mr McGavin emphasised that all these studies and assessments in the EES would be studied and scrutinised."If thereisarisk of that occurring, that is something we will need to address. If the EES says this will pollute ground water, then we would not be able to do it.There is no waythe regulations would allow us to do that," he said.

Mr Moran said the water level in the mine was now 20 metres below sea level. To cover the ash, another 12 metres of water was needed, with a further 32 metres of water level required to meet 45-metre lake height. "The current proposal would see that occur in about 10 years, "hesaid, dependingonclimatic conditions, rainfall and anumber of other variables.

Mr Moran said Engie had water for fire suppression under current water entitlements. "We have existing commercial agreementswith Gippsland Water regarding watertakeand we looktocontinue thoseinthe approved project. We have alicence for ground water extraction to maintain stability andlook to vary that licence to allow groundwater take," he said

There was potential to increase it in perpetuity to

caterfor evaporation. "Under the current proposal, we are looking to maintain afull lake with current connections with the river that will have minimal impactonthe environment. That would involve maintaining astructure that would allow access to one or two gigalitres ayear for floods, access from storm waters and catchments that can provide atop-upofwatertomaintainafulllakewater level," he said.

Mr Moran said certainty about the availability of water wasaquestions for the EES to work through. Queried whether taking water from the desalination plant was an option, Mr Moran said there were arange of different scenarios for alternative waters. "The EES has an alternative options assessmentwhich looksatarange of different non-water field and water fieldsolutions.Inthe water field, there are arange of different surface water options, including recycled water. All will be put through arigorous assessment to determine feasible scenarios," he said.

Mr Moran said non-water solutions include to 'batter out' the mine batters and make them stable, for which asignificant amount of material was needed. "But it is still effectively ahole in the ground below the water table, and naturally afilling process starts.Inthat, there are arange of technical and geotechnical elementsthat need to be managedongoing, probably throughground water pumping, andthat's an in-perpetuityexercise to go down that path," he said.

"There are other more extreme solutions where you might backfill completely. You would need a significantamountofmaterial to do that. It would obviously have significant environmentaleffects elsewhere."

Queried whether there was along-term risk to Morwell, Mr Moran said of the many regulations covering the mine, "foremost is safety and stability". "We do that on adaily basis," he said -maintenance, management through levelling and groundwater pumping.

"The groundwater level beneath us has significant pressureand canheave the floor, whichcreates instability in theface of the walls -the primary driver to manage. There is no 'do nothing' option in this scenario."

Mr Moransaidcovering all exposed coal abovethe plus-45 level was feasible. If alesser level of water was possible, "we would workthrough whatever is required". If the mine was covered with water, "that is perfectly acceptable froma chemistry perspective

“Engie’sproposalisfor an asset that can be used by the public, be valuabletothe community.Aninterconnected lakeoffers far morepossibility from awater quality perspective -potential flood harvesting,irrigation management downstream -something Engie is strong on. Alakethat has community access is fantastic”

Environment Effects Statement Manager,Adam Moran

and from fire". "The mine is non-flammable when covered by water," he said.

Geo-research showed there was no evidence that exposed coal in awater table produced toxic elements."The coalissittinginawatertable anyway and groundwater here is of high quality. There is no evidence to suggest atoxic element in covering the coal. If covered by water, it's probably as safe and secure as it can be," he said.

The water level in the mine is now about 16-17 per cent. "There is always water in the base of the mine during operations," he said, due to excessive rainwater, rainwater wash off from catchments, through the walls of the mine and ponds in the base of the mine. Specifically, it now included Morwell River flood diversion water that was used to support the Yallourn mine emergency. "The water is pumped out and treated," he said.

"There willalways be water in the bottomofa hole; it's belowthe water table,itrains. We need to maintain aprocess to manage that to further the safety and stability for the mine itself."

Mr Moransaidthe proposed lake would allow public access. "Engie's proposal is for an asset that can be used by the public, be valuable to the community. An interconnected lake offers far more possibility from awater quality perspectivepotential flood harvesting, irrigation management downstream-something Engie is strong on. Alake that has community access is fantastic," he said. Boating and fishing were options. "A lake by default will have its own ecosystem. We will wait and see the outcomes of water quality modelling and ground water modelling and other technical studies. Certainly there will be some ecosystem," he said.

Mr Moran said he was confident at this time there would be no impactdownstream on the Gippsland Lakes, but fears whether there would be enough water to fill the mine was avalid concern. "Water is increasinglyamorevaluable resource, ourcommercial contracts have arangeofdifferent uses in atimeofa drying climate and there are other industries where it's more required. We would continue to have those arrangements. If water is scarce,other aspects would take priority," he said.

Mr McGavinemphasised that Engie could only "step away" if it was absolutely certain the site was non-polluting. He favoured the possibility of environmental regulations being sharpened in the future. "I think it's agood thing. There have beenfailed mining rehabilitation in this state," he said, citing an Auditor-General's report. "It's not been done well. We are in agreat spot where we can ensure that it's doneproperly. Regulations increasing in rehabilitation is agreat thing, "he said. "Engie welcomes it."

View: Aphoto showing the vastness of the Hazelwood open cutmine Photographs supplied

What to do: The futureofthe minevoid has been hotlydebated.

Rainbow Brick Road reportgives voice

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

THE first of itskind is what they’recalling the RainbowBrick Roadreport, asurvey capturing the lived experiences of the regional LGBTQIA+ community. Launched on International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex Discrimination and Transphobia (IDAHAOBIT), the report is a ground-breaking regional project aimingtogive voice to those often unheard.

GippslandPride InitiativeCo-founderCaitlin Grigsbyhopes the report and its recommendations willbethe start of apathwaytoimprove the experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community regionally.

“This piece of workis, to our knowledge,afirst-ofits-kind,region-specificassessmentofLGBTQIA+ experiences in Australia,” she said.

“It is our hope and intention that this workresults in region-specific and community-informed actionto more effectivelybridge the gaps and contribute to a fulfilling,equitable and enrichinglived experience for LGBTQIA+ Gippslanders.”

The Gippsland Rainbow Brick Road project was created by the Gippsland Pride Initiative, which developed the community survey and ran aseries of professional development workshops across all six shires of Gippsland on the experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The report was released at the Morwell Innovation breakfast last Wednesday morning.

“The Morwell innovation breakfast generally is attended by local industry leaders, local government leaders, councilleaders and local government, funding bodies and departments, but what was extraordinary was the diversity in the room. You had your youth spaces and people from all of the shires, volunteers, teachers and even power station executives were all in the room and supporting us and cheering us on,” said Ms Grigsby.

The report’s key recommendations saw aneed to increasemental health services and inclusivity training in health settings and educational institutions.

The report also found the needtodevelopa support networkand an up-to-datedirectoryof local LGBTQIA+ services, among other initiatives.

At the workshop 119 people attended, while a total of 184 surveys fromLGBTQIA+ Gippslanders were analysed.

Almost half of the participants(47.8 per cent) identified as homosexual, with others identifying as pansexual, asexual, bisexual, heterosexual, or other.

Five people identified as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.

Theparticipants in the survey were mostly aged between22-54 years of age.

Data collected from the 184 surveys and workshops were analysed by Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation and Research Group.

The survey focused on areas of the workplace, family, education, healthcare, community groups and sporting clubs.

The survey’s findings found:

-Inthe workplace, 58 per cent of participants had not experienced harassment or harm, but almost half of the participants had heard damaging or offensivestatementsorwere exposed to subtle forms of harassment at work;

-More than 67 per cent of the survey had concerns or serious concerns for their mental health,and 45 per cent could not access mental health support in theirimmediate location, and;

-Over70per cent of respondents had considered self-harm or suicide in their lifetime, with only half reporting that they felt their concerns weren’t treated seriously.

Results from the survey showed that education and timewere critical factors in gaining understanding and support from family and friends. When participants recalled their time at school,

45 per cent felt they were not supported to be their whole selves; however, many participantshave reported apositive generational change.

Those participants involved with sporting clubs found them to be supportive and actively promoted LGBTQIA+ policies.

However, only30participants responded that they were actively engaged in sports.

“People that have joined asportingclub that is inclusive are having an excellent experience like roller derby, but we also know the response rate to those participating in sport is still incredibly low,” said Ms Grigsby.

More than half the participants did not believe there were enough safe and accessible spaces for the LGBTQIA+community, but despite this, the majority did feel supported by the community groups they were involved with.

Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation Research Group Director, ProfessorJoanne Porter said the Rainbow Brick Report will make waves forchange.

“The Rainbow Brick Report will help inform real changeinthe education, health andcommunity services sectors across Gippsland,” she said.

“It was our job to showcase the voices and experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community in order to provide organisationsand agencieswiththe necessary evidencetowards improving services and support in Gippsland.”

Latrobe City Councilhavealready committed to having council officers reviewthe Rainbow Brick Road’s report and recommendations for the council’s information alongside an overview of the state government’s whole-of-government LGBTIQ+ strategy‘Pride in ourFuture: Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ strategy 2022-32’.

In apress release, Latrobe City Council said they “recognise that transgender and genderdiverse people continue to face significant barriers and challenges. We remain committed to continuing to work together to ensure acommunity free from discrimination, harassment, and violence".

In lightofthe ground-breaking Rainbow Brick Road Report, AussieBroadband,the GippslandbasedInternet service provider and its Managing

Director, Phillip Britt,announced acombineddonation of $50,000 to the Gippsland Pride Initiative.

"As amember of that community and as someone who has experienced those challenges first-hand, Gippsland Pride's work is critical," said Mr Britt, who personally donated $25,000 to the cause.

“The donations that Aussie Broadband and I have made will allow Gippsland Pride to move from their total volunteer base to having the support of adedicated staff member to further their work,” said Mr Britt.

Ms Grigsby said fromAussie Broadband’sdonation, The Gippsland Pride initiative could branch out and findother funding and resources and remainvery thankful for Aussie Broadbent and Vic.Tas for their support and funding.

In other unrelated research, Gippsland Primary Health Network released anew priority issuepaper and found that financial security, employment and ahealthyenvironment all impactonthe mental health and wellbeing of people in Gippsland, especially the LGBTQIA+ community.

The studyemphasises that LGBTQIA+individualsare more likely to endure stigma and prejudice, are more likely to have poor mental health and suicidal conduct, and require enhanced and safe accesstosuitable services witha well-trained team.

The LGBTQIA+ groups are extremely varied, with some bearing an even larger burden, such as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, trans and gendervariant people(particularly young trans individuals), and people with an intersex variation.

In 2022, the Gippsland Pride Initiative launched the RainbowBrick RoadProject. Theprojectwas a large-scale survey of the region’sLGBTQIA+ people to better understand the community’s needs, the urgency of support required and to collect the data necessary to better allocate resources and funding to these communities.

Now that report has been released, Gippsland Pride will work closelywillcommunity groups, businesses and local councils in the hope that everyone takes theopportunity to take on the recommendation to improve the outcomes for the LGBTQIA+ community across Gippsland.

Teamwork: Caitlin Grigsbyfromthe Gippsland Pride Initiativeand Professor Joanne Porter Director of Federation University’sCollaborative Evaluation Research Group

Celebrate: Gippsland Pride Initiativeand Aussie Broadbandpose fora photouponthe release of the RainbowBrick Road Report Photographs supplied

Mens HealthWeek

INTERNATIONAL Men's Health Week is celebrated everyyeararoundthe worldinthe middle of June.

It provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of men's health, and to promote and supportthe physical, emotional and mental health of men and boys.

The theme of Men's Health Week 2023 is Healthy Habits -focusing on encouraging men and boys to build healthy habits by identifying small changes they can make that benefit their health and wellbeing.

In Australia, Men’sHealth Week provides aplatformfor challenging and debating key issues in men’shealth and to raise the profile of men, their health outcomes and health needs around the countryeach June. It celebrates the strengths of men, the contributions they make, and the important roles they play in society

In local communities, it’satimely reminder to discuss men’shealth and encourage regular health checks, which in turnsets agood example for the younger generation following.

New resources for people diagnosed with dementia

NEW resources designed to support people who have been diagnosed with dementia have been released by Gippsland PrimaryHealth Network. Created as part of acollaboration between five Victorian PrimaryHealth Networks (PHNs) -Gippsland, WesternVictoria, North WesternMelbourne, EasternMelbourne and Murray -and the Tasmanian PHN, the resources werefunded by the federal government and detail information and supports available in local communities for people living with dementia, their carers and families. Gippsland PHN acting chief executive, Angela Jacob,said the resources weredeveloped as partofthe federal government’sresponse to the Royal Commission into Aged CareQuality and Safety.Mrs Jacob said therewas estimated to be nearly half amillion Australians who wereliving with dementia, while around 1.6 million Australians wereinvolved in the care of someone with dementia.A Priority Issues Paper on dementia, released last year by Gippsland PHN, revealed morethan 7488 people in Gippsland had dementia, with an expected increase to 13,783 by 2058. An estimated 438 people experienced younger onset dementia (under 65 years).The paper named dementia as the second cause of death among females in Gippsland and the sixth cause of death among males.“As more Australians live longer,these numbers are expected to increase significantly,which is why these resources areavaluable addition to the supports that people, diagnosed with

dementia, can access,” Mrs Jacob said.

“Receiving adiagnosis of dementia can be an extremely challenging and overwhelming experience for anyone, so having access to good quality information and resources in an easy-to-understand format is really important.”

The resources include abrochureDementia: Resources and supporttohelp you live well -for people whoare in the process of being diagnosed with dementia and their families or carers. The brochureisdesigned for people who may be experiencing some cognitive decline. It outlines the process of getting adementia diagnosis and includes suggestions for important questions to ask your GP. Thebrochurealso has information about other dementia supports and resources, including links to alocal Dementia Directoryonthe Gippsland PHN website.As partof the PHN collaboration, new resources to supporthealthprofessionals have also been created. Anew workforce dementia training program called Demystifying Dementia, has been developed in conjunction with Dementia TrainingAustralia, with the program designed and facilitated by GPs for GPs, GP registrars, practice nurses, nurse practitioners and other health professionals. The downloadable version of the brochure and the localised Gippsland PHN Dementia Directorycan be found atgphn.org.au/ what-we-do/programs/programs-aged-care/ dementia-or-cognitive-decline/

Talking about the law

VICTORIAN Law Week was noted at the Morwell RSL by localsolicitor DavidHackford, who addressed Morwell Rotarians and invited guests from the Morwell Historical Society, Morwell Rose Garden, Morwell Country Women’s Association, Probus, and Morwell Lions Club.

The Victorian Law Week ran from May 15 to 21, and was held to promote important and practical legal services.

Mr Hackford’s address had particular reference to appointing Power of Attorneys and Executors and Trustees of Wills and other legal documents.

Victorian Law Foundation officers based in Melbourne, Kate Sedgewick, events and education director, and Nikita Batch, events and education coordinator, also attended and assistedwith further information and enquiries.

Mr Hackford explained the importanceofchoosing the right person or people to act on your behalf whenplanningtomake your Willtocarryout finalwishes, or in the case of appointing Power of Attorneys, (Medical, Personal and Legal and

Financial) who step in and act on your behalfwhen you no longer have the capacity for making sane and sensible decisions for yourself.

After adetailed overview of the main legal issues relating to Wills and Power of Attorney, guests were invitedtoask questions and Mr Hackford answered questions about the roles of Attorneys and Executors and Trustees,who has the legal right to carry out final wishes, Next-of-Kin, Executor issues, the issue of ownership of joint assets,the contesting of Wills,Superannuation funds, Probate, Death Certificates, leaving to minorsand underage children,and raising awareness of Death Benefit claims.

In closing the evening’s program, Rotary chairman Harry Ballis noted the keen interest in Mr Hackford’saddress takenbyeveryonepresent and thanked him and the representativesfrom the Victorian Law Foundation with asmall gift as atoken of gratitude for theirattendanceand contribution to avery interesting evening program.

Volunteering Event creating new connections

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

HUNDREDSflocked to the Latrobe City Council’s Volunteering Connections Event at the Gippsland Performing arts centre (GPAC) forecourton Saturday, May 27.

With over 30 stallholders on the day, there was avolunteering opportunity for everyone.

From 9am to 1pm the volunteers braved the chilled conditions to connect with the community.

The councilcelebrating NationalVolunteer Week heldthe eventtobolster volunteer numbers across the region.

The event provided allstallholderswith the chance to inform the community about local volunteering opportunitiesand connect withlocal groups seeking volunteers and assistance.

Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan spoke to the Express on the day.

“We couldn’t do awhole heap of things that we do in our community without volunteers, and the opportunities that they give back to the community is amuchmore flexible one.”

The GPAC forecourt and surrounding streets were packed as people went from stall to stall to listen to the many wonderfulopportunities to give

back to the community.

“We’ve had hundreds of people come down today. The great thing about them coming down from the farmers market is they’ve come straight from the market straight to the volunteer’s expo,” said the Mayor.

“We’ve alwaysbeen acommunity that’sfocused on volunteering and creating opportunities and I think some of it comes from aculture of giving back to the community that comes from the diversity of our community,” she added

The Mayor said the event was made to be accessible and allowedthe community to create those connections with the people who were looking to get involved.

“Volunteersoften have time; it’s in their interest and it’s obviously something they’ve been quite passionate about for some time,” she said.

Walking through the maze of stalls showcased justhow many opportunities there are to help out in the region.

Amanda Clark the districtmanager of Traralgon Girl Guides said, “It’s anice community event to interact with the general public.”

The Girl Guides team leader enjoyed the opportunity to chat withthe people butalsodifferent

Supporting community funds charity

TRARALGON Lions Club has agreat track record in the community for supporting worthy causes.

community groups on how to work together in the future, having said she has organised activities with other groups from the event.

Latrobe City Council will consider making the VolunteersConnection Eventanannualone on the council calendar based on this year’s success.

Recently, the club held acharity golf day -their first since 2019 due to the pandemicand as aresult were able to present acheque for $8000tothe Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund.

This donation is testament to the continuing hardwork of all Lions members and also acknowledges the supporttheyreceive from the local community.

At arecent presentation, clubpresident Ken Taylor and charity golf day chairperson, Mark Henning handed over the cheque to GERF president Andy Tegart. The smiles on the faces said it all.

Andy said, “This is aspecial donation which will ultimately assist those who are adversely impacted by natural disaster in our region."

"GERF is extremely appreciative of donations such as this and although we currently do not have an emergency situation which requires distributionoffunds, thismoney willberetained and put to gooduse when next we are affected by fire flood or storm”.

The Gippsland Emergency Relieffund is run entirely by

and every dollar donatedisdistributed to thoseaffected in emergency situations.

volunteers

Let’s talk law: Morwell Rotary chairman Harry Ballis, Victorian LawFoundationevents and education officer Nikita Batch, solicitor David Hackford, VLF directorKateSedgewickand Rotary presidentColin Matthies

Photograph supplied

Represent: CouncillorTracie Lundand Mayor Kellie O’Callaghan at theLatrobeCityCouncil’s Volunteering ConnectionsEvent Photograph supplied

Busy: Hundreds of people attended the VolunteersExpo Photograph Zaida Glibanovic Opportunity: Traralgon

Grantsgiving back to thecommunity

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

ENERGYAUSTRALIA Yallourn will grantatotalof

$20,000 to Morwell People’s Kitchen, Newborough Urban Fire Brigade and Gippstown Reservein the company's latest round of community grants.

Morwell People’s Kitchen, Newborough Urban Fire Brigade and Gippstown Reserve are all set to receive collectively $20,000ingrants from EnergyAustralia Yallourn in their first round of grants for 2023.

EnergyAustralia's Latrobe Valley community grants initiative goes towards community projects to improve localinfrastructure, education and tourism.

EnergyAustralia’s Head of Yallourn, Greg McIntyre said, “We are proud to be funding three initiatives for organisations that are an integral part of our Latrobe Valley community.

“We never take for granted the role the Latrobe Valleycommunity hasplayedoverthe lifetime of the Yallourn power station. These grants are agreat wayfor our team to show our support for the region in which we live and work.

Adeserving recipient of the grant was Morwell People's Kitchen which provides access to healthy, home-cookedmeals for anyone in need. EnergyAustralia and the People's Kitchen have had along-standing partnership.

“[EnergyAustralia] employees undertake regular volunteeringwith The People’sKitchen, which prepares food each Friday for the local food bank, and we know there has been increasing demand for the service. We’re happy to see this funding going towards installing anew oven that will alleviate the pressure on the kitchen," Mr McIntyre said. Latrobe City Councillor TracieLundand the head of Morwell NeighbourhoodhousePeople's Kitchen welcomed the grant.

"We're going to purchase abrand new oven for our People's Kitchen Program; we do alot of work, and we cook out hundreds of meals aweek, so this is asignificant investment in this program, and we are thrilled to be arecipient It certainly meanswewill be able to cook moreand we'll be doingitfar more efficiently then what we are at the moment," she said.

"This investment is an investment not only in the Neighbourhood House and the People's Kitchen, but it also is investing in the community and supporting the good work we are doing around addressingfood

insecurity in Latrobe," Cr Lund added. Amongthe others that will share in EnergyAustralia's grantsisthe Newborough Urban Fire Brigade.

Mr McIntyre is "pleased to contributetothe Newborough Urban Fire Brigade, which provides

criticalservicestothe Yallourn site and surrounding community should CFA support be required.

“They’re working to update its community educationcapacity, and this fundinghas meant they can keep it interactive through purchasing atelevision and iPads to conduct the program.

Gippstown Reserve will also benefit from EnergyAustralia's Community grants as the Heritage Park will be able to upgrade features of the tour to offer acharming experience.

“This round of grants is also goingtothe Gippstown Reserve for anew self-guided and accessible audio-visual tour of Old Gippstown, engaging tourists and community groups in our local history,” said Mr McIntyre.

The manager of the Gippstown Reserve, Tina Forte, was elated at the news that their grant application was accepted.

"Self-guided tours, building by building, will allow Old Gippstown to be the same as other historical venues to do your own tour of the park," she said.

"I'm reaching out down Melbourneway to spread our tourism market as much as Ican; we’ve recently had people come from New South Wales So our reach is gettingbetter, and this will engage tourists more, and it meansthat it will help our volunteers as well.

"Wewill be able to provide the people that are coming in here withthe technology to at leisure and take their time to learn the history more thoroughly than our volunteer times allow," she added.

This funding comes from EnergyAustralia Yallourn’s first round of grants for 2023, with applications for the next round opening in September.

Each year EnergyAustralia provides $120,000 in community grants and sponsorshipsfor the Latrobe Valley community. This year,EnergyAustralia Yallournwill distribute up to $60,000 in grant funding to anumberoflocal grass roots organisationswho can address key local issues currently facing our region.

EnergyAustralia has two priorityareas for grant funding which are education and social inclusion. EnergyAustralia Yallourn has two roundsofgrant funding. Round 1ran duringMarch, and Round 2will run for during September. In addition to theGrantsprogram, EnergyAustraliaYallourn runsa SmallFunding Grants Request program which supports local organisations and events in the region through small grants of up to $1000. Applicationsfor these smaller grants are accepted throughout theyear and reviewed monthly.

For moreinformation on our Community Grants program go to energyaustralia.com. au/about-us/what-we-do/generating-energy/ yallourn-power-station/yallourn-community-grants

Helping hand: Anwar, David and Tony from the Yallourn powerstation at the People’s Kitchen in Morwell.

Photograph supplied

Painting her way to New York City

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

CHURCHILLFederation Universitystudent

Michelle Prezioso will be flying to New York this month to partake in aprestigioussummer residency program at the New York Academy of Art.

The New York Academy of Art is aprivate art school in Tribeca, New York City.

The academy offers aMaster of Fine Arts degree with afocus on technical training and critical discourse as well as aPost-Baccalaureate Certificate of Fine Art.

Ms Prezioso is athird-year Bachelor of Arts studentofFine Arts at Churchill.Wanting to expand her skills andcareer,MsPreziosoapplied foraselective scholarship in New York.

“I didacolour mixing workshop just online with the NationalPortrait Gallery and the person delivering the workshop was talking about an experience and they mentioned they attended this program, and because Iwant to pursue acareer in art Ithought it would be agood idea to apply," Ms Prezioso said.

So that she did, Ms Prezioso filled out an application, got areference from Federation University and sent overexamplesofher artwork to be accepted into the renowned art school with ascholarship as well.

Jetting off last week, Ms Prezioso says she is, “really excited but abit nervoustoo, because I’ll be going on my own,but it’s amazing to get the opportunity to go overseas for something that’s going to help develop my career, something Inever thought I’d get the opportunity to do".

The summer program will be an intensive training in all different art forms from painting, drawing, and sculpting.

Students will also get to travel around to major studios in The Big Apple and major galleries, withanend-of-season exhibition at the end of the processatone of the prestigious galleries,with opportunities to showcase personal work.

Ms Prezioso has many artists from which she draws inspiration from.

“I love alot of portrait paintersand figurative painters. So Ilove Australian likeNatashaBieniek,

she’s been in the Archibald afew times and Ilove her hyper-realistic work,” she said while adding she takesinspirationfromAtong Atemand Cindy Sherman too.

“I have asort of surreal element to my work, so Igravitate my work to those artists too.

“I would say it’s realistic portraiture, but it’s not hyper-realistic, Iguess it’s more an expressive version.

Having aspirations of becoming aprofessional artist, Ms Prezioso is excitedtofine-tune her skills, meet new people and make global connections.

“I hope it’s really going to boostmytechnical ability and give me that extra confidence to pursue what Ihavebeen doing.

“I am from aregional area in Traralgon,itis exciting to be able to connect with people internationally,” she said.

With apassion for the community, Ms Prezioso would want to bring her skillsbackfor communityrun workshops and help people through art.

“I used to work at Latrobe Youth Space, working with young people in the area to give them the opportunity in the region to enjoy their time here and give them reasons to stay, so Iamvery passionate (about the local community),” she said.

“Art is amazing, especially after COVID the benefits to mental health, creating community and having pride in where you live and what you do, I think art is really important for all those things.”

Federation University lecturer, Dr Julie ReedHenderson couldn't be prouder of Ms Prezioso.

“It is inspiring to see one of our dedicated and talented Federation University Arts Academy visual art students forging opportunities and insights in the art world beyond our shores from regional Victoria.Michelle is averyworthy recipient of this New York selection andscholarship,and we congratulate her on her creative achievement," she said.

Skills: Michelle Preziosohas been accepted intoa summerresidencyprogram at theNew York AcademyofArt Photograph supplied

by Joanne Madeline Moore

June 5- June 11,2023

Aries Red-hot Rams are talented creatures with fiery, fertile imaginations And this week Venus and Mars are both transiting through your creativity zone So, it’s time to show the world how fabulously creative you can be This week, dig deep, connect with your inner muse and express yourself! Be inspired by music icon (and birthday great) Prince: “To create something from nothing is one of the greatest feelings I wish it upon everybody It’s heaven

Taurus With Mercury Jupiter and Uranus hurtling through your sign, your energy levels are set on high and you ’ re feeling (uncharacteristically) impatient But Pluto cautions you to be less hasty and a lot more strategic, as you steer clear of quick-fixes and, instead plan for the long-term Good things will definitely come to clever Bulls who learn to wait As birthday great Prince wisely noted: “Sometimes it takes years for a person to become an overnight success ”

Libra This week Mercury and Pluto boost your business brain, and you’ll feel more positive about your financial and professional future But resist the urge to be precious about possessions and possessive of loved ones Give family and friends plenty of freedom to do their own thing Coupled Libra – resist the temptation to keep a big secret from your partner Unhappily single? Venus and Mars encourage you to look for a lover who is outside your comfort zone

Scorpio Prepare for a rather tricky week as pPluto opposes Venus, and people (or circumstances) frustrate your plans Don t let others hijack your career goals or derail your domestic dreams No matter how challenging things become or how long it takes, you need to be the captain of your own ship and the master of your own destiny! So, your motto is from fellow Scorpio, award-winning actress Tilda Swinton: “What is any life without the pursuit of a golden dream?”

Gemini It’s a busy week for gung-ho

G Geminis! Mercury (your boss planet) makes positive connections with unique Uranus creative Neptune and powerful Pluto Then Mercury transits into your sign (where it joins the Sun) So, it’s important to cast inauthentic personas aside and enjoy the freedom of being the real you As birthday great Judy Garland said: “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else ”

Cancer You’re keen to retreat into your Crab cave as the Sun visits your contemplation zone So solo activities like meditation and yoga are favoured But a friendship could veer off-course and shake you out of any sense of complacency Your inner voice will help you to navigate your way back home Be inspired by Princess Diana (who had Sun in intuitive Cancer and Moon in rebellious Aquarius):

“I don’t go by the rule book I lead from the heart not the head ”

Leo Va-va-voom Venus vamps into your sign (where it joins fiery Mars) so you ’ re keen to flirt up a storm and call in a few old favours

It’s also a terrific time to indulge in creative passions like cooking, drawing, decorating, renovating, gardening, music or craft projects

Coupled Cats – things could get hot and heavy as your libido fires up Singles – you re in a hurry to find your soulmate but you’ll have to be patient Take your time and don t accept second-best

Virgo

Virgos are clever and capable –but ag re you confident enough for big-time success? The Sun and Mercury are activating your career zone – but you won’t get ahead if you waste time making mountains out of molehills Networking is favoured, as you expand your international connections A wonderful opportunity is heading in your direction, but you must grab it when it appears, or it will pass you by So, stop overthinking things and instead, start doing!

Sagittarius

With Venus and Mars both gvisiting fellow-fire sign Leo, your Sagittarian playfulness and sense of humour are highlighted this week So, you ’ re keen to amuse others, as you play the role of the ribald raconteur (But remember, there can be a very fine line between being funny and being offensive ) When it comes to close relationships resist the urge to be bossy and judgmental Mercury encourages you to communicate in a curious and open-minded way

Capricorn Powerful Pluto reverses back into your sign (until January 21 2024) So you can expect unfinished business, thwarted (and then revived) ambitions plus deeply transformative experiences Don’t let that deter you! If you are flexible and adapt to constantlychanging circumstances, then you can make progress in pleasing and satisfying ways As actor/activist (and birthday great) Michael J Fox observes: Our challenges don t define us, our actions do ”

Local students get education boost

FEDERATION University Gippsland students

Ella Fothergill and Chloe Bethune are this year’s beneficiaries of the Gippsland Water scholarships.

Ms Bethune, who is studying aBachelorof Education Studies, is the inaugural recipient of Gippsland Water’s Indigenous Scholarship.

Aproud Watjarri Mardu woman who loves community work and volunteering, Ms Bethune is also the current youth mayor of Wellington Shire Youth Council.

industry,” Ms Fothergill said.

Both women will receive $3000 per year for the three years of their courses and have the opportunity to gain hands-onindustry experience at Gippsland Water.

Managing director, Sarah Cumming said she was thrilled that Gippsland Water wassupporting Chloe and Ella.

“This is the first year we’veawardedour Indigenous Scholarship,” Ms Cumming said.

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

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

Aquarius

This week passion planet Marqs and love planet Venus are both transiting through your relationship zone Proactive partnerships and creative joint ventures are favoured, as you spark ideas off each other Plus (courtesy of the Mercury/Uranus hook up) you’ll find your domestic life and family relationships will be exciting – and unpredictable So, hold onto your hat, expect the unexpected and prepare for a wild ride this week Life certainly won’t be boring!

Pisces Do your best to assiduously avoid Piscean passivity and procrastination Mercury Jupiter and Uranus are all activating your learning and local environment zones So, it s time to be clever confident and proactive as you set ambitious goals, attract mentors, and expand your world in exciting new directions Study, observe listen and learn! Your motto for the week is from birthday great (and music legend) Prince: I like constructive criticism from smart people ”

CopyrightJoanne Madeline Moore 2023

Thisadvertisingspace couldbe s

“I hope to be able to teachculture to kidsin disadvantaged communities and support kids to connect to their Country,” Ms Bethune said.

Ms Fothergill, aTraralgon local and former Lavalla Catholic student, received the Gippsland Water Women in STEM Scholarship to support her Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) studies.

“I hope to be an inspiration to young girls who are often intimidated to step into amale-dominated

“We’re proud to provide education and employment pathways for local Aboriginal youth.

“We hope the scholarships allow Chloe and Ella to reach their full potentialatuniversity, gain valuable work experienceand develop fulfilling careers here in Gippsland.”

Students can find out more about Gippsland Water Scholarshipsatgippswater.com.au/ scholarships

Startup Gippsland recognised

STARTUP Gippsland Program Founder, Dr Elena Kelareva has been awarded the prestigious Governor of Victoria’s Startup Regional Ecosystem Hero Of The Year award.

The recognition comes as atestament to Startup Gippsland’scontributions to fostering entrepreneurial growth and innovation in the region.

The award name celebrates peoplewho have madesignificant contributions towards supporting start-ups, entrepreneurs and start-up ecosystem development across regional Victoria.

The honour acknowledges Elena’s tireless efforts to nurture and empower budding entrepreneurs, catalysing economic growth and creating avibrant start-up ecosystem in the region.

StartupGippsland has consistently demonstrated acommitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through its comprehensive programs and community. By offering mentorship and invaluable guidance Startup Gippsland and all who have supported the initiative since its inception in 2018 have playeda pivotalrole in empowering start-ups to thrive and succeed in a competitive business landscape.

“When Ileft Google in 2017 to work on growing regional start-ups and tech ecosystems, Ihad no idea whether it would even be possible to make a difference in this space," Dr Elena said.

Startup Gippslandhas since had over150 startups go through our pre-accelerator and accelerator programs, and we’ve supported thousands of entrepreneurs over the years across all the events and programs that GippsTech has delivered.

We’ve built Gippsland into one of the most vibrant regional start-up ecosystems in Australia, and it’s wonderfultosee this recognised with this award”.

“A big thank you to my team, past and present, who have contributed to the success of Startup Gippsland and GippsTech as awhole. Tasha Wright, Sarah Shepherd, Caitlin Lisle, andalso StephThoo, Stephen Angus, Bodye Darvill, James Muir, Luke Marshall, Shaun Mallia, Jack Clayfield

and many others who have been acriticalpart of building up Gippsland’s start-up ecosystem -Iam so grateful for your support over the last few years”.

The Governor of Victoria’s Startup Regional EcosystemHero of the Year award served as further validation of Elena’s vision and leadership within the start-up community.

This recognition will motivate Startup Gippsland to continue its mission of driving innovation and nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders.

Elena extends her gratitude for this recognition to LaunchVIC, Latrobe City Council, Bass Coast Shire Council, Baw BawShire Council, East Gippsland Shire Council, South Gippsland Shire Council and Wellington Shire Council, who have all supportedthe Startup Gippsland program and continue to advocate for opportunities for entrepreneurs across the region.

Elenaand the team at Startup Gippsland remain committed to building athriving start-up ecosystem, and look forward to continuing the journey of empowering entrepreneurs, creating jobs,and drivingeconomic prosperity in the region.

The team at Startup Gippsland look forward to welcoming more than 100 people as it showcases six of Gippsland’s finest start-ups at the Pitch Showcase event on Friday, June23, which is funded by LaunchVic and delivered in partnership with Breakthrough Victoria.

The 'shark tank' style event will be held at the Gippsland PerformingArt Centre in Traralgon, and will see start-ups pitch for prizes worth over $90K, generously donated by the Startup Victoria community.

The night will be full of inspiration as will hear from aspecial guestspeaker, start-upinvestor Jodie Imam of Tractor Ventures.

Tickets to watch the pitchevent live are still available and can be booked via Eventbrite.

High honour: Ella Fothergill, Gippsland Watergeneralmanager people and customer,Michael Crane and Chloe BethuneatFederation University’srecent scholarship presentation night.

Photograph supplied

Nature-based play

BUSH Babies Playgroup, located in Glengarry at the Girl Guides Camp in the picturesque Burnet Park, offers nature-based play activities for young children aged 0-6. It’s the perfect setting for children to be in and explore nature.

Playgroup facilitator Wendy MacDougall said, “We provide a range of open-ended play activities which encourage exploration and learning through play, as well as offering some formal learning throughgroup time activities, such as singing songs and sharing stories.”

Wendy is aqualified early childhood teacher who bringsawealth of knowledge and experience to playgroup, ensuring activitiesare tailored, interactive and engaging. Wendyalsohas two young bush babies of her own, Matilda, (aged four) and Harriet (one), who come along and participate in the playgroup sessions.

“During Term 2, childrenhave enjoyedwater play, pretend cooking in the ‘Bush Kitchen’, colour mixing, nature craft, manipulating playdough, Mother's Day activities, campfire andtoasting marshmallows, exploring autumn colours, going on acolour treasure hunt and much more.”

“Mila is eight months and she had agreat time! Therewas agreat variety of activities for all ages, all of the kids werehaving so much fun,” mum Sharntayesaid.

“It was great that the first half was self directed play which took the pressure off being on time as all mums know how unpredictable babiescan be." Playgroup provides an opportunity for parents to spend quality time withtheir littleones, free of home life distractions.

“We’ve had mums, dads and grandparents all come along to Bush Babies! Everyone is welcome,” Wendy said.

“Playgroup is also agreat opportunity for parents and grandparents to take some time out for themselves, grab acuppa andhave achatand connect with other families.”

PlaygroupcurrentlyrunsonMondays and Wednesdays, and will continue in Term 3.

Bookings for Term 2are currently open and can be made via the following link at trybooking.com/ CHPTJ

Bookings for Term 3will open on June 25. Preference will be given to term bookings by accessing the following link at trybooking.com/CISLS

Casual bookings will be offered at alater date. To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the bookinginformation, follow the Facebook page Bush Babies Playgroup.

Simultaenous storytime

AFTER learning that this year’sNational SimultaneousStorytime was The SpeedySloth by Rebecca Young and Heath McKenzie, St Paul’s AnglicanGrammar SchoolJuniorSchool students ‘sped’ to listen to the storysimultaneously with children all throughout Australia.

Afterwards, educators planned asessionfor Year 9studentstoread with the younger students, and they were delighted at the chance to spend some time reading to the younger children who were eager to be read to.

Imaginations were transported to exciting and spectacularworlds as variousbooks were read and discussedinsmall groups with some of the youngerchildren, teaching the older students a thing or two about the characters and storylines.

National Simultaneous Storytime is an annual event facilitated by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) where an Australian-authoredbookisread simultaneously in schools,kinders, libraries andmany other locations all around Australia.

Innovative: BushBabies Playgroup offers nature-based learning throughplay. Photograph supplied

Leader: Year 9student Adam readstoRobbie and Ryley. Photographs supplied

Transfixed: Year 9studentKydan readsto Lleyton and Kieran.

andEleanor Adventure: Year 9student Asmi readstoElla and Baylea.

TheGuide

PICK OF TH

THE KINGDOM

SBS, Sunday, 7 30

EWEEK

0pm

Marc Fennell gets pe opening feature-leng Framedand Stuffthe award-winning journ a knack for capturing light side of difficult m the controversial, far Hillsong Fennell was church as a child; he and emotional story organisations misde grace He chats to cu former believers inv what the future hold for Pentecostal religi and who will take Hillsong s place, in th shadow of bullying, abuse and financial mismanagement

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Wednesday, June7

PG) Afreeway project is delayed.

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

9.00 In Limbo (Mals) Charlie’s angst comestoahead.

9.30 QI. (Mls, R) Hosted by SandiToksvig.

10.05 Take 5With Zan Rowe (PG, R)

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Ragdoll (MA15+v,R) 11.50 Father Brown. (PG,R) 12.35

Operation Buffalo.(Final, Malv,R) 1.35 Rage

(MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 AntiquesRoadshow

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

Confronting past: Marc Fennell leadsa personal investigation of HillsongChurch in TheKingdom nt

Good versus evil, man versus animal… this morbid, scenic miniseries starring amenacing Colin Farrell and Jack O’Connell (pictured)wraps up tonight with amasterfulflourish, leaving viewers with achancetodefrost –and alot to reflect upon. Following amid-19th-centurywhaling expedition in the Arctic this unique series’ utterly compelling performances, along with its magnificen backdrop,makefor some harrowing scenes. Tonight,Sumner(O’Connell) is nursed back to health by amissionarypriest. Returning to Hull,Sumnersets out to findBaxter (Tom Courtenay) and start the next phaseofhis life

HAVE YOUBEEN PAYING ATTENTION?

10, Monday, 8.40pm

Forthe past decade, this lighthearted homegrown quiz show has been instrumental in shooing away those pesky Monday blues. Aloose look at theevents and newsofthe past week, it’sareliable vehicle forregular panellists Ed Kavalee’s juvenile quips and Sam Pang’scaustic wit.Along with hostTom Gleisnerplaying their

good-natured punching bag, thegigglesare effortless andfree flowing. Tonight,the team is joinedby veteran funnyman Tony Martin (The D-Generation) and n tworisingstarsof Aussie standup,the delightfully deadpan Emma Holland and nonchalant AlexWard (pictured), to see who can pressthat buzzer with the right –or hilariously wrong –answer.

THEPLATYPUSGUARDIAN

ABC TV,Tuesday, 8.30pm

How much do youknowabout us and eplatypus? stale man, one mortality Walsh fe-changing he found Hobart ,e he aplatypus oom. gZoom in plastic sspurred sion to struggling opulation ssroots on effort ge camera reveals ticalwater Walsh’s so makes autifully

Australia’s most mysteriou strangenativeanimal, the You’ll be captivatedbythi of two creatures –one m mammal –facingtheir m When Hobartian Peter (pictured) received alif medical diagnosis, h comfortbythe Rivulet,where “befriended” he named Zo After findin entangled Walsh was on amiss savethe platypus p with agras conservati Cutting-edg technology r Hobart’smys world, but it’s W passion that als wavesinthis bea shotdoco

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 HistoryOfThe Sitcom: Just Friends. (M) Alookat“hanging outwith friends” sitcoms.

8.30 TheMayfair Hotel Megabuild. (M) Part 1of3.Follows the engineering challenges facedbyClaridge’s,one of London’s most luxurious hotels.

9.35 Blue Lights (MA15+a) Aparamilitarystyle assault case has Grace determined to bring the McIntyrestotheirknees

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 TheCongregation. (MA15+s) 12.00 Unit One. (MA15+al, R)

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

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home AndAway. (PGav)

7.30 Cricket. ICCWorld Test Championship.Final.Australiav India. Day 1. Morning session.

9.30 ICC World Test Championship: TheLunch Break Takesalook at the day’splay

10.10 Cricket. ICCWorld Test Championship.Final.Australiav India. Day 1. Afternoon session.

12.10 ICCWorld Test Championship: Tea Break. 12.30 Cricket. ICCWorld Test C’ship Final.Australia vIndia. Day 1. Lateafternoon session. From The Oval, London, England.

3.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 SevenEarly News. 5.30 Sunrise

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Travel Guides. (PGln)

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

9.30 MOVIE: LondonHas Fallen (2016,MA15+lv,R)Terrorists attackworld leaders in London. Gerard Butler

11.25 Nine News Late

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9.40 Law& Order: SVU. (Final, Masv) In the search forarevenge-for-hire crime ring, Bensonand Stablerjoin forces on acase that has globalreach.

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9.35 One Plus One: TheElders. Fred Hoopertells thestoriesofhis ancestors.

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7.30 Football. AFL.Round 13 WesternBulldogs vPort Adelaide. From Marvel Stadium, Melbourne.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion andinterviews.

10.50 Cricket. ICCWorld Test Championship.Final. Australia v India. Day 3. Afternoon session.

12.10 ICC World Test Championship: TeaBreak. Takesalook at the day’splay.

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YOURLOCAL FOOTBALLAND NETBALL LIFTOUT

Locals return from national duties

NETBALL

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

NOT many people can say that they have represented their country, but cousinsSiennaBlair andGeorgia Zammit certainly can.

From MorwellEastA Gradetothe Maltese National team, the duo had quite the experience playing for their country at the Europe Netball Open Challenge Event.

From May 10 until May 14, the duo competed at the Cardiff City House of Sport in the United Kingdom against some quality competition.

Flying out from Melbourne on Saturday, April 8tostart training with the Maltese side on the following Monday, the girls were given no guarantee of aspotonthe international side and had to earn their stripes.

The young women were put to the test with atrainingcamp in Rabat on that Fridayinpreparation for the tournament.

Teams were announced shortly after afew trainings and trials.

The cousins must have impressed, as Blairwas picked as aprimarydefender and Zammit as amid-courter and voted in as vice-captain by her teammates.

“I personally was shocked and abit overwhelmed but yeah that was really special,” Zammit said.

“I think from the get-go, training and training campyou couldjust tell that G (Georgia)has always had aleadership personality,” Blair said.

“If someone had told me that ayear ago

Iwould be the vice-captain of Malta, I would’ve laughed in their face,” Zammit said.

The team trained three days a week with intense sessions in high temperatures.

The pair said the whole experience felt like an incredibly professional environment, playing and training where some of the biggest names in netball have played.

“We were there for five weeks prior to the tournament, we trained three days aweek for two and ahalf to three hours oneofthose training wasfitness training. Siennaand Iwere trying to sneak in as much travel as possible so we would be doing 20 to 22,000 steps a day and then rocking up to training and asking, ‘Why did we do this?’" Zammit said.

The Maltese team first took on Isle of Man,with Blair as starting goal keeper.

“It was definitely scary. In the morningwewere told the starting teams, I heard my name and Iwas like ‘Oh my God I’m starting, it allhappened so fast and it was game one,” Blair said.

“I remember going to the facility and it beingjustmassive with all theseats,the bench, the timekeepers the scorers, it all just looked so professional, the barricade around the courts the spectators and the filming.”

“How did Iend up here?” she asked herself.

The Maltese teamdid well to run with their opposition in the first game, but it wasn’t until Zammit came on halfway through the first quarter that the Maltese side took charge.

“I was in full game mode when Icame on;Ijust came on and started playing. Felt really good,” she said.

Zammit’s court dominance came to an early end as she landed awkwardly after receiving acentre pass late in the first quarter.

“As soon as Ilanded,Ijust knew straight away. Sienna knew it was bad because Inever call time, like I’ve played concussed, Inever call time, but on the actual land, Icalled it,” Zammit said.

The footage did not look pretty, as Zammit immediately grabbed for her knee as she fell.

“Long story short, here we are, I’ve done pretty much everything you could do,ruptured my ACL,moderate tear in my PCL, and MCL, I’vealsotorn my meniscus and significant bone bruising and yeah, awaitingsurgery,” she said “I have one internationalcap, but it was an amazingexperience all the same …pretty interesting experience being on thesidelines and being in that elite environment.”

Morwell EastAGrade will no doubt miss having their captain playing on the court, but Zammit will continue to support from the side lines.

On May11, the Maltese side played the Republic of Ireland, going down 72 to 25.

It was avaliant effort from the team, but the Irish were just too good.

The young side then faced off against the UnitedArab Emirates (UAE)the next day, improving on their score, losing 39 to 67.

On May 13, the team playedthe Welsh Development squad in atoughbattle

for anon-rankingmatch;the Welsh development team ran away in a70to 31 point win.

On the same day, the young women putthe netball shoes on again to play the Republic of Irelandfor asecond time, this time going down 76 to 31.

And in the final bronze medal match of the tournament, the Maltese team faced off against the Isle of Man in avery tight battle, falling just short 42 to 31.

The team finished fourth in the first division,withthe UAEtaking out top spot

The standardofnetball at the Europe Open was at “another level, for sure. Even the actual environment itself was astep above; we had warm-up courts, we had bikes, we had netballrings, and it was eliteinevery sense of the word", Zammit said.

Both young women spoke fondly of the whole experience and the memories and friends they made along the way.

The pair are considering the idea of competing for Malta again in the future.

Judi Buhagiar the Eastern Region Manager for Netball Victoria, accompanied the young women on the tripand said, “Sienna and Georgia both slotted in the team quite well."

“There was abit of ashock in the first game, but when Georgia came on from memory, we were three goals down with afew minutes to go in the first quarter when she came on, she absolutely turned us around and got us back to a draw because she took control of that midcourt,” Buhagiar said.

Buhagiar said it was “absolutely heart-breaking to watch her go down”,

but Zammit’s injurywasn’t the only worry for Malta, with afew other girls suffering fromminor injuries duringthe course of the tournament, meaning the team’s list was spread thin.

Despiteinjuries and ayoung side, Buhagiar said the Maltese team took it to the opposition and offered real competition against quality sides.

Blair now has four international caps underher belt,with Buhagiar saying, “She was amazing, she really stood up, and there willbealot thatshe will bring back to her regular game now, which is all that we were looking for.”

“Look, we didn’t win games,but we certainly won some hearts,”said Buhagiar as the Maltese side broke streaming records.

Malta is consideringmaking an under22sidefor the next European tournament, which would benefit the Maltese girls and give Sienna achance to compete at her age level.

“There are seven countries in Europe working toward affiliation with Netball Europe,” Buhagiar added.

Keen netballers from across Australia could consider taking the same leap of faith as the young Morwell girls did as the competition grows globally.

From their experiences, the cousins wished for all the young netballers out there to take on the opportunities given to them and cherish every moment on the court.

“If you get given an opportunity, take it. It doesn’t have to be in sports. Say yes to everything,and don’tworry,” they said.

Line-up: TheMaltese national netball team Photographs supplied

Mates: Morwell East’s Sienna Blair(backrow fifthfromleft) and Georgia Zammit (on crutches) said theymade great friends from the experience

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

Gippsland League

Morwelll grabs vital victory

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

MORWELL had no alternative other than to beat Bairnsdale at the weekend.

The Tigers did just that, winning 11.6 (72) to 8.10 (58) in Round 8ofthe Gippsland League.

Thevisiting Redlegswere only two points down at three quarter time, but Morwell finished strongly, kicking three goals to one in the final term.

Morwell dominated possession for the first 10 minutes of the last quarter without putting theiropponentsaway, before finding some better connectivity to eventually break the game open.

Up until then, it had been atight tussle, with the quarter time and halftime margin only one and nine points respectively.

BrandonMcDonaldmaintainedhis lead at the top of the league goal-kicking,adding two majors to go with aseason tally of 28.

Speaking of the match, Bailey labelled it asolid performance all things considered.

"Thought we wasted afair few opportunities to be fair, we probably should have ended up maybewinning by alittle bit more," he said.

"Probably justthe final kick at some stage we missed alittle bit which kept them in it, apart from that everything else was pretty pleasing."

After losingnarrowly to Sale the previous week, the coach used his three quarter time address to reiteratethe importance of not letting another close game slip.

The message did not fall on deaf ears, as playersthe likes of Aidan Quigley, Burkeley Macfarlane, Zac Anderson and Max Linton all played well.

With key defender Ryan Hearn overseas for afew weeks, Anderson,Lintonand Campbell Blewett stood tall in defence.

The trio did an admirable job on Bairnsdale's tall timber of John Gooch and playing-coach Logan Austin.

those names as acollective, with Mitchell the only one rating amentioninthe best for the Redlegs.

Others to be given that honour were Tyran Rees, Ethan East,Andrew Nelson,Byron Vickery and Harrison Cook.

Morwell has little time to bask in its glory, as they now turn their attention to Wonthaggi, fresh off astatement-making 79-point win over Traralgon.

Bailey said he was under illusions as to what was ahead.

"They are in really good form, we'll go in with aplan about how we think we can beat them," he said.

"The way our boys have been tracking over the last month, our form has been pretty good; stackedupagainst Leongatha, potentially could have beaten Sale, hopefully we can just keep building throughout the season to give us ashot at finals."

FMateria 5A Trotto2OKerr RKemp NFixterL Hickey DHume.Maffra

2. BEST: Leongatha: LHickey DHume FMateria OKerrA TrottoKBrown.Maffra:

MWilson JStubbeSPendergast AMckenzie AWright

GOALS: Moe: SCurtis 3W Claridge 2KMutke 2LRees 2T Morrow LDurkin AWilson. Drouin:

KHermansen 2BBrasier BEST: Moe: TMorrowA Wilson LRees JRiddleSCurtisA Roscoe

Drouin: JClerks JBethune BFlynn BBrasier KHermansen NJarred

TRARALGON 2.4

WONTHAGGI 1.1

GOALS: Traralgon: HBritten 3BKimberley BKennedy JVan Iwaarden LMcDonald B

Locandro. Wonthaggi: AMurrayN Jones JWilliams ABusana. BEST: Traralgon: BKimberley

DCampbell BCheetham LMcDonald HBritten MMembrey.Wonthaggi: LJones JWilliamsK

McCarthy JBrown NJones

SALE4.5 6.13 12.17 18.18 (126)

WARRAGUL 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 (2)

GOALS: Sale:T Campbell 5B Walker 4L Place3JSandeman2 OWaugh 2E Dyer BSmith.

Warragul: Details N/A.. BEST: Sale:B Walker MBenson BMcKay BJones HPottsZ Russell

Warragul: XLaFrantz TDavine JOrlickiLMonacella JMurphy

MORWELL 3.1 4.3 7.7 10.7 (67)

BAIRNSDALE 3.0 5.2 9.2 10.4 (64)

GOALS: Morwell: ROddy 4MPorykali ZCarlson MMarinoT Hutchinson. Bairnsdale: CMoresi

3LDunkley 3RPeters OClarke JWaddellWBromage BEST: Morwell: JLeak LTactorROddy R Adams MPorykali BBriggs.Bairnsdale: ZSmith LLakay CMoresi LDunkley PBills LBleyswyk

DROUIN

GOALS: Moe: CNash3 JDwyer 2JMaslen BAson. Drouin: KGregg 3J Walsh ZMcmillan.

BEST: Moe: LMcGrath AStylesB JeffsL Weir BSavage JMaslen. Drouin: BWalsh FLockwood

WYoung ZMcmillan JEvans

GOALS: Maffra: SSmith 4J Dimarco HBurgiel EStables.Leongatha: KMcGrathW Brown.

BEST: Maffra: TScott

The livewire is one goal clear of Leongatha's Jack Ginnane.

Tristen Waackwas voted bestafield forthe winners, kicking three goals, including two in the crucial final term to help seal the deal.

Waack put the disappointment of being overlooked in last week's AFL midseason draft behindhim,helping hishome club to victory.

While many in local football circles have been calling for the youngster to play as first ruck in theMorwell senior side -the position thatsaw himcome runner-up in the league best-and-fairestlastyear-Waackhas been playing primarily as amidfielderin2023

According to Tigers' playing-coachBoyd Bailey, who was also listed in the best, the move has been about giving Waack added versatility.

"He's adapting to the role Ithink,everyone probably forgets he's only 19, it's technically only his eighth game as amidfielder, Ithink he's just starting to find his feet as amidfielder at this level," he said.

For Linton to keep Austin quietwas especially noteworthy, as the former Port Adelaide and St Kilda playerhad been in the best five out of the last six weeks.

"Good scalp for him to get, it was one of his best games for the year by amile,"Bailey said of Linton.

"Max did an awesome job on Austin and Campbell Blewett did areally good job on Gooch, afew boys played areally good role for the team and then the smalls were just able to get the match-ups we needed.

"They're (Bairnsdale) apretty good team, they play thatslingshotballmovement. I reckon that is potentially how they've gone pretty well against other teams, they do force turnover and switch and slingshot you out the back, and they have the top-end talent to be able to do so."

Those players at the top-end include some recognisable surnames in Lachlan ByrneJones (brotherofPort Adelaide player Darcy) and WillMitchell(brotherofBrownlow medalist Tom).

The Tigers shut down the influenceof

If Morwell is to makeconsecutive finals series, theywill needtoclosethe gap on Sale, who currently holdaone-gamelead in fifth. An upset win playing in Wonthaggi this Saturday willtake the Tigers' win-loss record to 4-5, which puts them in the same position as they were at the halfway point last year.

While there mightbepressuretokeep winning, as far as Bailey sees it, Morwell has been playing at afinals-type intensity for awhole season anyway.

"No added pressure, we obviouslyknew it (the Bairnsdale game) was an important game for the context of our season, but we hadlots of those type of games last year," he said

"We've already had afew this year, that Maffra at Maffra gamewas pretty important to win,even lastweekwhenwedidn't winwe probably had that one up there as amassive one to win.

"It's agood thing, the playinggroup is playing in games that mean alot, the backend of last year and this year, so it is something the group is getting used to."

Is Morwell looming as theclassic 'team you wouldn't want to play come finals?"

Wonthaggi hands Traralgon power shock

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN AND LIAM SMITH

EVER had aday wherejustnothing goes right?

Traralgon had one of those on Saturday.

The Maroons were blown off the park by Wonthaggi, losing 16.10 (106) to 3.9 (27).

The 79-point annihilation sent shockwaves through the Gippsland League, in aresult that well and truly 'threw' many in league circles.

For amatch between third and fourth, the Power made it look anything but.

nals Member for Morwell meron@parliament.vic.gov.au

Ge Street, MorwellVIC 3840 614Morwell VIC3840

Wonthaggi added four goals in the second quarter at Terry Hunter Oval,and afurther four in the third -Traralgon scored three goals in those two quarters combined.

The Powerwere just showingoff in the last -they kicked 5.4 (34) to 0.2 (2).

Afterflying under the radarbehind topthree sides Leongatha, Moe and Traralgon for mostofthe early part of the season,

there was some doubt as to whether or not Wonthaggi would be able to displaceany of those.

There can be little doubt now. Wonthaggi are well and truly in business baby.

The visitors werewell-led by Ryan Sparkes, Tom Murray, Jordan Staley,Kyle Reid andJackBlair.

It was the performance of Cooper McInnes however that announced his arrival in the big league.

McInnes kicked seven goals in abest-onground display -two of those goals being long range bombs from beyond 50. After comingacross fromTarwin in the Mid Gippsland FNL, where he led the league with 71 goals last year, there had been some discussion about whetherornot he had what it took to play at ahigher level.

Wonthaggiofficialswillnow feel the recruitmentisjustified, whileMcInnes' confidence should be through the roof.

If yourlastnameisMcInnes,you know how to score goals in the Gippsland League after all.

For Traralgon, it became acase of where do you start?

The Maroons had been averaging 14 goals agame -they were held to three at the weekend.

Theyhad conceded 19 goalsinthe last three weeks -they nearly let through that many in this game.

It wasn't as if Traralgon hadplayers missing either -18thatplayedonSaturday featured in the win over Moe.

Tye Hourigan,Luis D'Angelo, Jackson McMahon, Mark Collison, Tom Hamilton and Max Jacobsen all battled hard. So, were Wonthaggi that good?

According to field umpire Mark Smith, they certainly were.

"From the first bounce Wonthaggi's pressure was on point, every contest was made difficult by every player on the ground and some of the best ball handling Ihaveseen all year," he said.

The Power's performance is sure to put Leongatha and Moe on notice.

Muddied Moegetsthe job done over Drouin

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

DEAR Mr Farnham, Mate,you gotta do something about that Drouin ground if youcan.

Moe madethe tripwest, and defeatedthe Hawks 20.9 (129) to 10.8 (68) in amud-soaked affair.

Both teams had to make do with asurface thatwouldhave been ratedaHeavy 9ifitwas aracecourse.

But even aracecourse has grass on it.

Barelyablade of green wasvisible by the time the senior game started -the Drouin oval resembling more of aspud paddock.

And Iknow aspud paddock when Isee one.

In fairness, Drouinpresident Chris Soumilas apologised to those in attendance during his halftime address, saying the club had been fightingan uphill battle with various powers at be to try and rectify the situation.

Looking at the state of the ground, one had to feel sorry for Drouin. How they would go training on it, let alone enticing potentialrecruits would be amajor issue.

If there was any saving grace, at least is wasn't raining, which led to ahealthy gate of just under $5500, and for Moe's sake, at least the game was in the first week of winter.

God help thoseclubsthathave to play Drouin at Drouin in the middle of winter.

The match was playedamidanodd juxtaposition, as perfect conditions weather-wise meant the ball didn't become overly waterlogged, and led to 30 goals being kicked collectively for the game.

Both teams took the ground out of the equation, and to their credit, looked to play an attractive

brand rather than revert to an old-fashioned slog.

Although ladder positions might have suggested otherwise, Moe's splutteringformlineatDrouinin recent years meant this was very much adanger game.

Demons of thepast may havebeen creeping into the visitor’s psyche at quarter time, as the Hawks took aseven point lead in ahigh-scoring opening that saw nine goals kicked.

Not much separatedthe sides in the second term, but athree-goal blitz fromMoe rightonthe eve of halftime saw them take a22-point lead into the sheds.

The Lionsadded those three goalsinasmany minutes, turning afour point lead into afour goal lead seemingly in the blink of an eye.

Moe took that momentum into the second half, whileconversely, the sudden onslaught seemed to take the string out of Drouin's attack.

So it provedoverthe next 20 minutes, as at three quarter time the Lions found themselves 43-points in advance.

The game had threatened to fizzle outinthe third, butDrouin, as they have become known for this season, kept taking the game on and kept trying to score.

Their approach in doing so meant they were able to add three more goals, but the catch-22 was that Moe kicked six at theother end.

Moe bullocking midfielder Jaryn Makepeace saved the best for last, with agreat running snap goal just as the final siren sounded.

Joining Makepeace on the goal-kicking list was new recruit Billy Gowers, who managed six, backing up the five he scored on debut last week.

Ben Daniher was industrious for the winners,as were thetwo Harrisonswiththe same spelling for theirgiven name but different for the shortened version in Harri Sim and Harry Pepper, who both

kicked three goals, continuing their good form.

Jacob Woodand LukeMulqueen both thrived in theconditions, well accustomed to what they have previously played in up at Hill End.

For Drouin, Kye Quirk, Tim Hancock, Jarrod Marhsall and Aden Quirk did agood job.

The name HugoBirks alsoratedamention among the Hawks' best yet again.

While anyone with aname like that is bound to get noticed, Birks has let his footy do the talking in his first year at Drouin.

The youngster has kicked 25 goals and been in the best six times, and he kicked another five on the weekend.

Moe senior assistant coach Shane Paynter coached Birks at the recent all-starsmatch for the best Gippsland League players under 25, and was glowing in his praise of him. It is now easy to see why.

Birks has helped turn Drouin into adangerous beast in season 2023.

As ridiculous as it sounds for ateam that hasn't won agame, the Hawks are actually good. Apercentage of 72.83 is hardly the sort associated with asidethat is struggling, and Drouin's ability to score freely sees them with agreaterpercentage than three others in the competition.

Under first-year coach,Brett Clinnick, the Hawks have, perhaps fittingly, decided to put on aclinic by the way in which they play the game, looking to attack at most opportunities.

After claiming the wooden spoon last year, Clinnick may have figured "we can't do any worse" and so decided to completely reverse the common football philosophy that says you have to learn how to defend first before becoming agood side.

Common feedback fromDrouin games this season has been that you can't defend against them -the only way to beat them is to keep scoring yourself.

Sale swoop, Parrots winners again

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

UNSURPRISING results came the way for Sale and Maffra in Round 8ofthe Gippsland League.

SALE took their lead inside the top-five on the ladder to an even four points.

The Magpies werehalf-a-game clear in fifth heading into the match at Western Park, but were able to break away from their nearest challengerafter easilyaccounting for Warragul.

As expected, the visitor’s were never troubled,and used the mismatch as an opportunity to boost their percentage.

They did avery good job of that, taking their percentage from 82.84 to 101.77 after pumping the Gulls 19.11 (125) to 3.4 (22).

Sale kept Warragul scoreless in the first quarter, and went on their merry way from there.

Asecond term blitz saw the Magpies have 10 scoring shots from 16 entries as they piled on 7.3 (45) to 1.1 (7).

It was more of the same in the second half, as Sale kicked nine goals to two against an oppositionthat is well and trulyfacinga long, tough winter.

The unfortunate Gulls have already used close to 40 players this season, and one would expect the injury toll, and overall enthusiasm, will only get worse as the days get colder.

Brad Dessent kicked five goals in the win, whileolder brother Jordanplayed his first senior game for the season.

The former skipper capped off the return withtwo goals,withhis first seeing 17 teammates running up to celebrate with him.

Another pair of brothers, Daine and Jonty McGuiness,alsobobbedupfor apairofgoals each, making it 11 goalsfor people withthat surname (albeit with different spelling) in the Gippsland League for the round.

Jarrod Freeman kept the goals coming for Sale withfour,and received good support fromJack McLaren, Daine McGuiness, Cooper Whitehill, Hudson Holmes, Jayden Allison and Nathan Whitford.

McLaren has been in some form, named in the best in every game bar one this season.

For Warragul, Riley Senini, Brad Hefford, James Davidson,SeanMasterson,Cooper Alger and Matt O'Halloran fought manfully.

LEONGATHA got backonthe winner's list.

Been awhile since we've had to say that.

The Parrots were too strong for Maffra, winning 14.13 (97) to 4.7 (31).

Somewhat ironically, Leongatha faced the side whose league record it was on track to break up until the previous week.

The Parrots had won 34 games in arow before losing to Moe, falling some distance short of the Eagles' 45 consecutive wins between 2003 and 2005.

Commentsonthe bush telegraph during the week about who was the better team may

have fired up the Parrots, as they stamped their authority on the contest after halftime, kicking six goals to none to be runaway winners.

An interestingname appeared for Leongatha, with former Essendon player Noah Gown kicking four goals.

Gownwas able to jointhe Parrots as his VFL club Sandringham (St Kilda's affiliate) had the bye.

The union came about presumably through Gown's friendship with Leongatha player Kim Drew. The pair having previously played together at Warragul.

While it is unknown whether this was a one-off game, one would think the Parrots willlooktoget Gownqualified for finalsif the opportunity arises.

Leongatha defender Cade Maskell was best-on-ground for the second week in arow, giving further rise to his label as being the Benjamin Button of the Gippsland League.

Joining the left-footer in the most prominent was Jack Hume, Tom Marriott, Aaron Turton, Jake van der Plight and Gown.

While beer is the common postgame refreshment for most country footballers, the sight of many Leongatha players drinking UDLs might explain why they spread so quick -they've probablygot that much sugar in their system.

AlexCarr, BenBrunt, Kade Renooy,Kieran Jones, Ed Carr and Brayden Monk tried hard for the Eagles.

It's straight out of old Maffra coach Wayne Butcher's handbook: kick 15 goals and keep the opposition to less than 10.

Just how many wins Drouin get on the board by playing in this manner remains to be seen, but if they manage to spring an upset or two, league pundits can't be too surprised.

They would have to be the best team that hasn't won agame in well over 10 years of Gippsland League football.

In agame that didn't return ahugenumberof talking points, there was acouple of instances worth mentioning.

Moe midfielder Nathan Balfour made his senior debut, coming in for injured brother Jacob, while cult hero Matt Heywood managed to kick his first senior goal.

Lion’s defender Scott Van Dyk took aclever juggling mark after slippingover in the mud,as many playersdid throughout the day, just before the long-sleevewearingDylan Brooks showed tremendous desperation to lay ablindsiding tackle at atime when the result was beyond doubt. For Moe, the improvement across the board has beenself-evident:The Lions won eightseniorgames last year, and are now up to seven; the reserves won seven and are now at six before the halfwaymark.

The dullness of the game was perhaps best summed up when Lion’s midfielder Jordan Ceppi booted the ball 50 metres thewrong way in the last quarter. While such an act would normally draw instant shock, spectators by this stage had seen enough, and weren't really paying attention.

Like the scene in The Blues Brothers when the band finishes playing at Bob's Country Bunker, most spectators were like JolietJakeassoon as the final siren sounded, saying "let's get the hell out of here."

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

GOALS: Tarwin: RWaddell 5K Patterson 3CGreen 2NMcRae TLomax DHouston M

Williams TCrocker KCooper JCann. Mirboo Nth: MWoodall 3J Taylor 2JPellicano DTurner

BCampbell BEST: Tarwin: MWilliams TVanderkolk NMcRae TCrocker RWaddell KCooper

Mirboo Nth: JChila RKratzat JLambourn MWoodall BCampbell HMahoney

GOALS: Meeniyan Dumbalk Utd: DSheen 4S Walsh 2JHickey BTomada. Morwell East: J

Francis 2J Mackenzie MDiaz LTowns BEST: Meeniyan Dumbalk Utd:TCorryNAllen SWilson

MSmith WStewart SWalsh.Morwell East: MCunningham LTowns BFrancis RMichaelides

KFarley

GOALS: Fish Creek:SMcGannon 3MMcGannon 3ABright 2LCocksedge 2T Cameron 2

SMcCooke2A Wilson. Boolarra: ASheers DWilson. BEST: Fish Creek:PPekin TCameron

JAndersonS McGannon RDeBiase JShaw. Boolarra: SNoy LMarriott BMasonSMazou S

LSmith

GOALS: Thorpdale: MPowell 7M Chopping 4MGorman 2T Patten 2CCelima HSinclair-

Mid Gippsland Football League League

TThorpddallecomplletesquartet

FOOTBALL MID GIPPSLAND

BY ROB POPPLESTONE

 FISH CREEK VBOOLARRA

IT was fourth versus 11th on the Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League ladder, but it wasalways thoughttobeamuchcloser clash than what the ladder suggested.

The Demons had been on the wrong side of too many matches that could have gone either way, and were desperate to turn their season aroundagainst the home ground Kangaroos.

What unfolded however was Boolarra's biggest loss of the season and perhaps Fish Creeks' most impressive win.



MDU VMORWELL EAST

THISclashmight nothavebeen season defining but it certainly had the possibility of being season altering.

It was fifth at home to third, both teams awareofthe importance of awin, with the Hawks also desperate to stop apotential three-game losingstreakwhilstalsoputting some distance between themselves and the Demons.

The result means the pressure continues to build on Morwell East after the Hawks fell 20 points short to an impressive MDU 5.11 (41) to 8.13 (61).

“Today was areallyhard foughtwin. Morwell came at us all day, but we were able to put four quarters together and come away with the four points," MDU senior coach Nathan Allen said.

The Bulldogs are good, arelikely to be better and that in itself is sure to be daunting for any opposition.

Make no mistake, they were tested on the weekend, but as good sides do, they found a way to win, 20.5 (125) to Fish Creek's 15.11 (101).

"Stony Creek broughteverything Saturday, then threwitatuswith force. Aten-goal first quarter in perfect conditions for football set the scene for the day which saw thirty five goals kicked. After we kicked thefirst six goals of the third quarter Chrisand his men gottheir hands on the ball and after hitting the front half way through the last quarter they'd kicked nine unanswered goals," Newborough senior coach Craig Skinner said.

2W Anderson 2P Ainsworth 2LFlahavinJMitchellJ Bowden WSmith JHecker. StonyCreek:J Byrnes 4J Stuart

CVerboon TBernaldo DZuidema CLoughridge HFunnell HBull

BEST Newborough: JBowden PCharles LCharles JRobinsonW Anderson

Creek: MBrown JStuartHFunnell JByrnes CLoughridge DZuidema

RESERVES

Newborough: BBurgess 5JJacovou 4J Bland 3JSimpson 2DSmith 2LGilroy J

ABertoli WCollings.Stony Creek:Z VanDelft JByrnes RMcKnightJ Phillips BEST:

CGraham JBland BBurgess JJacovou JEdebohls ABertoli. StonyCreek:N

OBowlerZ VanDelft JPhillips JByrnesD Gilliatte

Jones

Scott GBrennan HBrowneN

SKilsbyDHales.Mirboo Nth: HBarnes RDevineCPinkerton. BEST: Tarwin: NTucker

WBlundy GBrennan SBurns E. Mirboo Nth: LJowettJ Felmingham SBusuttil M

LDight RDevine

EAST

GOALS: Meeniyan Dumbalk Utd: BMaxwell 3T Goss 3BCantwell 3BAllen 2JBrydon B

Moscript THarrisN Mathieson. MorwellEast: BGibson CLane PRepniks BEST: Meeniyan

Dumbalk Utd: MHarrisBCantwell BArnup THarrisEO’Loughlin TGoss.Morwell East: N

JLont LDay BMurdoch MWilliamsBSemmler

GOALS: Fish Creek:R Williams 9BPerks 2T Redpath 2CJones JLivingstone RStaleyO Straw

CMcPhee JKirtlandPHolian. Boolarra: GRichards. BEST: Fish Creek:R Williams JSegar C

McPhee OStraw TWalters JStaley.Boolarra: THolley EStanton TBeamish ABurness NKreun

GOALS: Toora: JMabilia 4AHewson2 LJenkins CFerguson. Thorpdale: TMitchell BEST:

Toora: RHewsonJMabilia LdeBoerAHewsonJ Vening WJenkins.Thorpdale:CChopping T

MChapman BHotchkinT Mackenzie WAllan

GOALS: Hill End: BGorman 5JSchiavello 2NJames PMastertoun RCumiskeyRCaldwell

Foster:W Roffey 3B Tillack 2RLewis OCox JAlbrecht. BEST: Hill End: PMastertoun J

Fish Creek 15.13 (103) defeated Boolarra 2.8 (20).

“A really positiveperformance from the team.Asolid four quarter effortwitheveryone playing their role. We now have abig game against what looks like the dominant team for the year and then awell earned bye,” FishCreek senior coach JarrodWeston said.

As Fish Creek have impressed, slowly building aformidable teamthat looks likely to be able to match any in thecompetition, the "mojo" justhasn't been there for the Demons in 2023.

"Nothing changed from our previous four games, we keep giving oppositionstarts and have been getting ourselves back in the game, but eventually asideisgoing to take advantage and Fishydid yesterday and flogged us, Boolarra senior coach Tony Giardina said.

"Winning is like ahabit,unfortunately losing is as well."

The closeness of the competition means that Boolarra are far from being out of the picture, but in reality they will need to find winning form sooner rather than later, and in the weekahead, they meeta side in much the same position, Mirboo North.

 HILLEND VFOSTER

AS much as we focus on the winnerseach week, credit should also be given to those clubs and those players that roll up their sleeves on aweek to week basis, do all the hard work but do not walk away with awin.

The Rovers came with goodintentions but failed to really threaten in any way after quarter time.

Foster 17.15 (117) def Hill End 4.6 (30).

"Happy enough with the result on the weekend on aprettyheavy deck -after quarter time we really defended well as a group and only allowed onegoal through which was amassive effort, that included noneinthe secondhalf,"Fostersenior coach SamDavies said.

"The last two weeks has seen us get into our groovea little bit more-toHill End's credit, they fought the game out, Mike still has them playing for him."

There is no question that the Rovers will find an upset win or two before the season's end, but against whom is hard to pick at this stage, for coach Mike Santo, you can be certain he's hoping itssooner rather than later.

"Fosterplayed well, they have great size andstrength all over the field. We were on top in the clearances for alarge part of the day but couldn’t maintainthat pressure in all parts of the ground. Some encouraging signs from our young players again which was good," Hill End senior coach Mike Santo said

They say you only really lose, if you walk awayfromthe contest having notlearnt, and for Morwell East, they certainly feel as though the loss has them well placed to be better in the weeks ahead.

"We travelled to MDU knowing we had to bring our best if we were going to come away witha win.Wehad areally strongsidein and hadmadea fewstructural changes," Morwell East senior coach Paul Henrysaid.

"I really thoughtweplayed our best game

It was agreat game to watch, both sides moved the ball really well. We kicked agoal late to bring the scores even but MDU had the answers when theykickedthe next three.

"It was aloss, but there were some really good signs shown compared to the last couple of weeks. We now have abye this week, then Tarwin at home."

 MIRBOO NORTH VTARWIN

TOUTEDasquite possibly the match of Round 7, this home groundclash for the Tigers was an opportunitytoput the Sharks season in jeopardy.

Tarwin had promised plenty in 2023, but to this stage haddeliveredwell short of expectations. Put simply it was awin or nothing for the visitors, and they played as they knew it as well, with aconvincing fifty point win, 17.5 (107) to 8.9 (57).

"Great team effort from the boys on aheavy deck! Our (midfielders) were really good in the contestand we used ourkicking skills this week which was nice to see. Mirboo has some good young kids coming through and they willcompeteagainstevery team, every week," Tarwin senior coach Troy Hemming said.

ATarwin win, would have many wondering whether it might be the start of the sort of form the Sharks showcased in 2022.

"Tarwin's accurate goal kicking was aclear highlight in today's game kicking17.5. It was thethird quarter which brokethe gameopen for Tarwin, the midfield got on top and we had to battle on with seventeen men due to asend off rule late in the second quarter.

Tarwin was too good for longer,"Mirboo

North senior coach Peter Mongta said. If the Tigerscan fast track some of that emerging youngtalent, they will start to surgelateasthey inevitably do in this competition, butthey would not want to leave theirrun toolateastheydid in the season prior.

 NEWBOROUGH VSTONY CREEK

THE Newborough traincontinues to roll along,picking up wins, learning about their opposition and improvingtheirform along the way

"We found aspark in themidfieldthrough Jake Bowden and Pat Charles, allowing Wade Anderson to light the forward line up to give us agreat hard-fought win.

"In some way the day wasspoiled by 58 free kicks, 15to 20 would be anormal day. Looking forward to thebye this week to rest some sore bodies and see Thorpdale on the other side of it."

Frustrations with umpirestobothsides' credit were tempered,but you sometimes wonder whether feedback in the right manner would actually be apositive step forwardfor all parties,nevertheless, both sides flourished in the high scoring clash.

“It was ahigh-scoringgame from the start. We had areally good chance to win the game and managed to get in frontin the last quarter," Stony Creek senior coach Chris VerBoon said.

"Newborough were able to score quickly when they went forward and it was hard to delay that run. Icouldn’tbehappier with how we moved the footy.Tosee theway we train come out in agame was reallyrewarding for the whole group, and gives them belief that we can play areally good brand of footy."

If the Lions can continue the type of football they displayedonthe weekend,they are sure to upset afew teams in the second half of the year.

 THORPDALE VTOORA

THORPDALEhave momentum, they have confidence and they also showed they have no mercy for opposition sides.

TheBlues delivered their most convincing win of the season and in doing so secured sixth place on the MGFNL ladder.

Thorpdale 19.15 (129) def Toora 4-2-26.

"Solid effort after quarter time against an undermanned Toora. Undisciplined play cost us afew goals early which was disappointing. Ourtallsall over thegroundled theway with somesolidcontested marking and spoiling," Thorpdale senior coach Jason Winderlich said.

As good as Thorpdale were, Toorawere alittle off their best and due to personal circumstances Magpies' seniorcoach Jack Weston couldn't be apart of the action, which meantitwas alwaysgoingtobeatoughtask.

"Unfortunately Iwasn't there so Ireally can'toffer anythingfromthe game, but hopefully we can give something to cheer about next week," Toora senior coach Jack Weston said.

The Toora reserves side continues to display some terrific form and there is no question some of their personnel will be considered for senior selection in the weeks and months ahead,while at Thorpdale, winningformismakingitdifficult for several strong considerations to find their way to the next level.

BYE -Yinnar

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE -ROUND 8

AGRADE: -Morwell 58 dBairnsdale 42, Warragul

55 dSale 44, Wonthaggi 40 dTraralgon 39,

Leongatha52dMaffra34, Moe 52 dDrouin 49.

BGRADE: -Warragul 50 dSale 46, Traralgon 43 d

Wonthaggi 40, Leongatha 67 dMaffra27, Drouin 65

dMoe 51, Morwell bye,Bairnsdale bye

CGRADE: -Warragul 45 dSale 26, Bairnsdale 35

dMorwell 29, Traralgon 39 dWonthaggi25, Maffra

37 dLeongatha 33, Drouin 33 dMoe 23.

17 AND UNDER: -Sale 57 dWarragul 14,Morwell

34 drew Bairnsdale 34, Traralgon 42 dWonthaggi

32, Leongatha 34 dMaffra23, Drouin 44 dMoe 13

15 AND UNDER: -Sale 68 dWarragul 12, Bairnsdale 50 dMorwell 15,Traralgon 47 d

Wonthaggi 17,Maffra30dLeongathga19, Moe 26

dDrouin 19

13 AND UNDER: -Sale 53 dWarragul 3,

Bairnsdale 39 dMorwell 4, Traralgon 53 d

Wonthaggi 3, Leongatha 24 dMaffra23, Moe 37 d Drouin 28.

MID GIPPSLAND -ROUND 7

AGRADE: -Tarwin 57 dMirboo North 40, Boolarra

56 dFishCreek 37,Hill End 49 dFoster 40, Newborough 58 dStony Creek 35, Morwell East 60

dMDU 31, Yinnar bye,Toorabye

BGRADE: -Toora74d Thorpdale 14,Mirboo

North 66 dTarwin 46, Fish Creek 65 dBoolarra43,

Foster 46 dHill End 40, Morwell East 59 dMDU 38

StonyCreek 56 dNewborough 41.Yinnar bye

CGRADE: -Toora51d Thorpdale 10,MDU 32

dMorwell East 19,Tarwin 46 dMirboo North 23,

Boolarra43dFishCreek 32, Hill End 44 dFoster

20, Newborough 34 dStony Creek 24, Yinnar bye

DGRADE: -Toora34d Thorpdale 16,Mirboo

North 38 dTarwin 30, Morwell East 34 dMDU 26,

Fish Creek 52 dBoolarra19, Hill End 50 dFoster 7,

Newborough 43 dStony Creek 12,Yinnar bye

17 AND UNDER: -Newborough 32 dStony Creek 28, Tarwin 26 dMirboo North 18,MDU 52

dMorwell East 15,FishCreek 53 dBoolarra19, Toorabye,Yinnar bye

15 AND UNDER: -Mirboo North 63 dTarwin 5, StonyCreek 21 dNewborough 19,Boolarra74d

Fish Creek 21, MDU 54 dMorwell East 14,HillEnd

39 dFoster 10,Toorabye,Yinnar bye

13 AND UNDER: -Tarwin 17 dFishCreek 11, Toora13dNewborough 12,Boolarra33d Yinnar

17,MDU 25 dHill End 10,Mirboo North 32 dFoster

4.

Gippy competiton tightens

NETBALL

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

GIPPSLAND League’s AGrade netballaction was not so predictable. The long drive to Traralgon didn’t faze Wonthaggi, who brought the power to win, getting aone-point victory 39 to 40.

Moe had some early worries as Drouin got the jump, leading by two goals into halftime.

The Hawks gave agood fight, matching Moe in every aspect, especially on the scoreboard, but the lionheartedsidecameaway withtwo final solid quarters to get them the 52 to 49 win.

Among Drouin’s best were Lucy McKellar, Kym Diston and Ava Gaul, while Moe’s dominate three were Emma Sculley, Ramayer Gourley and Macy Gardiner. Morwell again showed their class, easily storming through Bairnsdale in a16point win.

Best on for Morwell wasthe reliable Tanya Budge, Anna Solomon and Chloe Radford. SallyDeller, Anna Mooneyand SophieBullswere impressive for the Redlegs.

Warragul is taking the competition by storm. Finally on awinning run, the Gulls took down Sale in an 11-point win.

Sienna Green,Ella Reesand Kate Emerson were good in the win, while Sale’s Kate Van der Voort, Dee Dee Lambert and Lara Van der Voort were imposing.

Leongatha had an easy win over Maffra, the Parrots winning the battle of the sky 52 to 34.

The Eagles struggled to stop Jessica Edgar, KateBrowneand Taylah Brown in astunning performance. Maffra’s Chelsea Allman, Chloe Felsbourgand Sarah Edey werevaliant in the loss SHOCK turnofevents in North Gippslandsaw Woodside get knocked off top spot.

The Wildcats went downtoHeyfieldinaclose battle,41to43. TheKangaroo’s didtakefull advantage of Woodside’s weakened position, having come off aloss to Rosedale.

The win keeps the Roo’s in the top-four with percentage.

Heyfield’s Millie Riseley was good in the win.

The race for atop-four spot on the North Gippsland netball ladder tightens, with Rosedale and Glengarry vying for alook-in.

The Magpies have yet to make their mark and fell just short against Sale City 53 to 57.

Cowwarr gave Churchill arun for their money.

The Saints got off to ahot start while the Cougars were still finding their feet.

It wasn’t until the third term that Churchill decided to turn the jets on andturn the game around.From there, the Cougarsran awaywith it, winning 52 to 37. Best on the court went to Destiny Mackrell. The win sees Churchill agame clearatthe very top of the ladder, although the Cougarswill now have to prove theirworth against Sale City and the Woodside to keep it.

In other games, Rosedale got an easy 23-point win over Yarram and Gormandale got up against Yallourn Yallourn North.

Traralgon Tyers United had the bye. IN Mid Gippsland, theupset of the round was when netballpowerhouse Mirboo Northwentdown by 17 points to Tarwin.

Boolarra continues to stun, getting over Fish Creek 56 to 37.

Hill End isn’t doing so badly despite lackinga proper AGrade side; theRovers stillmanaged a nine point win over Foster Newborough made light work of Stony Creek, defeating the Lions 58 to 35, while Morwell East also had aday out in a29-goal victory against MDU. Yinnar and Toora had the bye.

Whats to come on Gippsland courts

MID GIPPSLAND

NORTH GIPPSLAND -ROUND 9

AGRADE: -Heyfield 43 dWoodside 41,Rosedale

64 dYarram 41, Sale City 57 dGlengarry53, Churchill 52 dCowwarr 37,Gormandale 33 dYYN

23, TTU bye

BGRADE: -Woodside 58 dHeyfield 43, Rosedale

53 dYarram 48, Glengarry56dSale City50, Churchill 46 dCowwarr 38, YYN 43 dGormandale

41, TTU bye

CGRADE: -Woodside 53 dHeyfield 14,Rosedale 46 dYarram 16,Sale City51dGlengarry20, Churchill 37 dCowwarr 18,YYN 32 dGormandale 36, TTU bye

DGRADE: -Woodside 53 dHeyfield 6, Rosedale 45 dYarram 12,Sale City42dGlengarry24, Churchill 27 dCowwarr 25, YYN 30 dGormandale

NETBALL

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

GIPPSLANDLeague will head into Round 9this Saturday.

Bairnsdalewill welcome Warragulto the City Oval court.

The Gulls have been climbing the ranks and will be atough opposition for the Redlegs.

Morwell’s triumphant Tigersshould have no problem getting through Wonthaggi Power.

Traralgon is desperate for another win and willdoeverythingpossible to take down the Sale.

Drouinreallygave it theirall against Moe last week, and there’s no saying they couldn’t do it again against Leongatha.

TheParrots will do well not to underestimate the Hawks.

Moe should be able to get over the line

against Maffrawhenthey welcome the Eagles to Ted Summerton Reserve. ROUND 8 of Mid Gippsland has already started,with Morwell East and Foster having already played that match at the start of the year.

The two teams will have the week off this Saturday. In other games, Yinnar will play Fish Creek in what might be aprettyclose match, and Boolarra will play Mirboo North, with the Demons tipped to take the chocolates after an underwhelming Tiger side went down to Tarwin.

Toora will take on MDU, and Tarwin will go head-to-head with Hill End.

Newborough and Stony Creek will have the bye.

NORTH Gippsland was nice enough to instate aKing’s Birthday bye round, so teams can enjoy alovely long weekend while the rest of the region slogs it out.

Form: Churchill’s goal attack Destiny Mackrell wonbest-on-courtfor her performance againstCowwarr Photograph Simone Brighton

NORTH GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

GOALS: Churchill: CWangman 7JMason4 BSkinner 3BHolt 3B Wight 2C Williams

Cowwarr:RO’Brien 2KStamers 2D Websdale 2N Twomey KHenderson SMorgan. BEST:

Churchill: BSkinner JMason CWilliams CWangman BHolt JFenech. Cowwarr:BRioli R

O’Brien NTwomey KStamers BCoffey WSwan

GLENGARRY4.3

GOALS: Sale City:BBrett 4JNelson2 MSackKMcCulloch BSafstromBMacgregor-Davies

MEvans.Glengarry: JBurgess 2LHealy 2MRyan2 THarrisA Bermingham JHodges C

Bartley TPoulton KWhateley BEST: Sale City: BBrett BQuirk JKirkham JNelsonBSafstrom

ZRobertson. Glengarry: CMitchell JBurgess MScholtes DMassaroLHealy ABermingham

ROSEDALE 4.3

YARRAM 2.3

GOALS: Rosedale: SBristow 3SFox 3OSmith 2JPawleyJEmery. Yarram: BMotton3K

Griffiths 3J Swift2 TChisholm. BEST: Rosedale: SFox BReid DBarnett TNorthe LStuckey J

Emery. Yarram: KGriffiths BMotton LBentley JMcfarland GUnderwood MClavarino YALLOURN YALLOURN NORTH

GORMANDALE

GOALS: YYN: KHughes 10 DMacdonald 8KJennings

North Gippsland Football &Netball League NorthGippsland

R Roseddallettakkeddown Yarraminhuge upset

FOOTBALL NORTH GIPPSLAND

BY TOM HAYES

THE racefor finals just got awhole lotmore interestinginthe North Gippsland FootballNetball League.

After weeks of hefty margins, the NGFNL provided some tight results for achange.

One just may be upset of the season so far, while the other might havejust kept the door open on finals.

THE Blues are back.

The Magpiestook afour-point lead into the first break, but surrendereditafter conceding four goals to their one in the second term.

Following what must have been an almighty rev up, Glengarry begantoclaw their way back, kicking 5.1 (31) to 3.0 (18), which saw the scores tied goinginto the final term, 10.7 (67) apiece.

Aseesawingfinalquarterbroughtthis down to the wire, but it was Sale City who had their noses in front when it mattered.

The Bulldogs got home by two points, 12.11 (83) to 12.9 (81).

term,which sawtheir lead extend past10 goals

Another six goals in the final term put the margin in danger of crossing the 100-point mark, but they fell short in the end, recording a79-point win,thanks to fourgoals in the final quarter to Cowwarr

The final score read 21.17 (143)to9.10 (64).

Chris Wangman returned to the side with seven majors, while five others scored multiple goals.

Le Blanc JChisholm CWitchell.Heyfield:M

3B Donahoe 2BStanley RBean. BEST: Woodside: TLoveLLeBlanc AWalpole

RBenisA Dean. Heyfield: JCox IWheeler LMahonyDParker BDonahoe RBean

GOALS: Churchill: RPeter 7J Whykes 4RHarding 4LBrereton3 LBye 2T Sevenson 2S

2DGolcic MSbaglia PKhamphawaCBoyce EBlair BMogford. Cowwarr:JMoore

ASmith. BEST: Churchill: RPeter JWhykes TSevensonB Riley THayesDGolcic.Cowwarr

10.12 14.19 (103) YARRAM 1.1 3.2 5.5 5.6 (36)

GOALS: Rosedale: BSalter3C Pritchett 2CSmith 2CByers 2LLossbergCMooreAMitchell A

Watson LRowley.Yarram: NMckenzie 2AParry. BEST: Rosedale: CPritchett aMcraeCMoore

CJanssen SCallahan SStuckey. Yarram: AParryJ Babb NMckenzie JCarrison

SALECITY5.2 6.3 7.5 9.9 (63)

GLENGARRY 2.2 7.2 9.3 9.5 (59)

GOALS: Sale City: AHeatherington 4LMooney 2T Lindrea ATilleyFShortis.Glengarry: L

Noble 2LRuach 2TWilson 2MSharp RTurner CHood BEST: Sale City:JClarke NIerardi L

Mooney AHeatherington BCunningham TLindrea.Glengarry: BRooney NPeel HBishop H

GilmoreBLudbey TWilson

YALLOURN YALLOURN NORTH 5.6 11.13 19.15 28.19 (187)

GORMANDALE 0.11.1

Rosedale overcame all odds when they defeatedthe fourth-placed Yarramathome, when most people may have wondered if Yarram coulddoanumberonthem instead.

The Demons had the chance to solidifytheir top fivestatus, but now they are stranded on the edge, with Heyfield and Sale City close behind.

Rosedale started strongly, kicking four first-quarter goalsand taking atwo-goal advantage into the first break.

Ahighly entertaining second quarter saw nine goals kicked betweenthe two sides, Yarram clawed onegoal closer but still remained behind at the break.

For the unfortunate home side, Callum Mitchell, Jack Burgess, Matt Scholtes, Declan Massaro, Luke Healyand Alex Birmingham all played their part.

While for the winners, Benjamin Brett, Billy Quirk, Jack Kirkham, Jai Nelson, Blake Safstromand Zach Robertson were outstanding.

The win puts them equal on points with three otherssides;Yallourn Yallourn North, Yarram and Heyfield, making the story for finals all the more interesting.

Afterweeksofsayinghow finals appeared to be decided for the most part, allofasudden two sides are all back in the mix. WOODSIDE have kept in touch.

Ben Skinner was best on ground,complimented by Joel Mason,Chris Williams, Wangman, Brendan Holt and Jordan Fenech. For the Saints, brother of Richmond defender Daniel Rioli -Brayden was notable, as was River O’Brien, former Cougar Nick Twomey, Kyle Stamers, Ben Coffey and Wayne Swan.

The Cougars decided to play on the side of caution,asvice-captain Ryan Lowrie’s day came to an early end in the first half, following aheadknock, and NickCelima also had an early shower when he was left with ashiner.

The league-wide bye might just help the Cougars as they hope to welcome some players back to the side in the coming weeks.

(7)

GOALS: YYN: JRedman11EDeCarli 5T Rowe 4JStevens JKingB BrownH Paulet A Anderson SGoreS SimpsonB Dyson. Gormandale: JGreen. BEST: YYN: JRedman EDeCarli

TRoweA Anderson BBrown DPurves. Gormandale: JGreen GSwanB Waters JBatson H Griffiths HBradford

GOALS: Churchill: LKerr 10 LHecker6 TCrawford4B Woodward3J Williams 3JDowd

2JHutchinson DFehlbergLMcavoyJShankland.Cowwarr:H Zee-verner CCox SMoon.

BEST: Churchill: JWilliams LKerr JDowd LMcavoyDFehlbergLHecker. Cowwarr:BEenjes D

HowardCCox BFelmingham LBrady HZee-verner

Things started to swing for Yarram after the main change, as they kept the Blues to one goal in the third term to take the lead by seven points,heading intothe final term.

But, their momentum was short-lived, as Rosedale pulled out all of the stopstoget their second win on the board.

Upon re-takingthe lead, the struggling side then became giant, as they kept Yarram goalless in the finalterm to run awayas one-point winners, in athriller at home, 10.9 (69) to 9.14 (68).

Perhaps by reading that score line suggests that Yarram squandered some opportunities, and rightly so, but that takes nothing away from Rosedale.

Sam Bristowand Spencer Fox led the way for the home side with three majors each, while Oscar Smith was the only other multiple goal-kicker with two.

Fox, Bailey Reid, Declan Barnett, Thomas Northe,Luke Stuckey and Justin Emery all made the best in the gutsy win.

Kelly Griffiths and Boadie Motton helped out as much as they could from aYarram standpoints, also with three goals each.

Griffiths, Motton, Liam Bentley,Jake McFarland, Griffin Underwood and Matt Clavarino were standouts for the visitors.

HARRIET SHING MP

WORKING HARD FOR YOUR COMMUNITY

The Blues shift into eighth on the ladder, all of asudden, jumpingCowwarr and Glengarry in the process.

It was one of acouple clean sweeps on the weekend, as Rosedale won nine of nine football andnetball games against the Demons. THE Bulldogs keepcoming.

In another close one, Glengarry hosted Sale City in hopes of earning their third win on the trot.

Making their way to Glengarry, Sale City were hoping to get their winning form back after adisappointing loss to Heyfield theweek prior. In perhaps just as exciting circumstances to the previous game, this game flowed from start to finish.

The Wildcats move to within awin away from Traralgon Tyers United on the ladder, following their 41-point win over Heyfield.

Known as one of the more devastating sides in the NGFNL this season, Woodside will be happy with the win as it keeps their percentage rich compared to everyone else. In typicalHeyfield fashion this season, they started strongly.

Kicking 4.1 (25) to 1.1 (7), the Kangaroos had athree-goal lead heading into the first break, but Woodside were never far away.

Woodside clawed the margin back with haste, kicking 4.4 (28) to one behind, to take anine-pointlead at the main break. Things would slow down severely for the home side, as Woodside continued to extend theirbuffer, leading by just 14 points with aquarter to play, both sides were well and truly still in the contest.

But asix-goaltotwo final termsaw the visitors over the line in comfortable fashion, 14.9 (93)to8.4 (52).

Ben Johnson, Jeremy Morgan, Matt Dyke, Thomas King, Cameron Whiteoak and Bailey Tatnell impressed the most for the winners. While the best for the Kangaroos wereMax Van Der Zwart, Robert McMillan, Mitchell Bennett, Alex Coleman, Liam Heasley and Kyle Graham. Woodside continue to hold their strong percentageof297.02, boasting around 50 per cent more than league-leaders, TTU. Just four points behindTTU on the ladder, their Round 13 clash is certainly one to look forward to.

CHURCHILL flexed their muscles.

Following aslow-ish start, the Cougars put the foot down to destroy the luckless Saints at Gaskin Park.

Churchill turned a16-point quarter time lead into a31-pointhalf time lead, slowly picking up the pace.

Theyturnedonthe heat in the second half, beginning with a7.4 (46) to 2.2 (14) third

They were another club to complete a perfect weekend, with nine of nine results going their way.

YYN were back to their best.

The Jets welcomed Gormandale to their turf at the weekend, and providedone of the most lop-sided results of the season so far.

After recently being torched for not being at their premiership winning best, YYN had something to prove, and they weren’t going to let Gormandale off easy.

The first quarter was quite tame compared to the rest of the match, as the Jets only held a25-point lead at the main break.

But that went out the window when they kicked11.4(70) to nothing in the second term, surpassing 100 points, to create a 95-point buffer at the main break.

Things didn’t get any easier for the trying Gormandaleside,asanother nine goals from the home side saw the margin extend past 100 points, to 165 points.

Seven more goals in the final termallowed the margin to surpass 200 points, YYN winning by 212 points, 34.17 (221) to 1.3 (9).

Keenan Hughes bagged 10 majors, while Dean Macdonald kicked eight to get back on top of the NGFNL goal kicking with 41 goals. Hughes,Dylan Bath,Macdonald, Campbell MacInnes, BarrieBurnett and Cambell Staff were the best for the home side.

While for Gormandale, Isaac Copland was their best, he was complimentedbyWilliam Flanagan,Tristan Salerno, Liam Deering, Jai Foulkes and Trent Baldwin.

YYN earnt themselves apercentage boost, sending them to fourth on the ladder, despite being equal on points with threesides below them.

TTU had the bye.

The NGFNL heads into aleague-wide bye in this incoming weekend, thanks to the King’s Birthday long weekend.

Gippsland women’s festivaloffooty

FOOTBALL

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

THEYcame from far and wide to playabit of footy.

Female Football Gippslandtook apagefromthe

AFL’s book and ran agather round lastSunday, June 4, for ajam-packedday of footyatthe Morwell Recreational Reserve.

Round 6ofthe Gippsland women’s competition sawten games played over two ovals, with even Auskick at halftime duringthe two women’s matches.

The day was abuzz withfamilies enjoying anice pie or coffee at the canteen and some great action in the Valley’s own female footy festival.

Female Football Gippsland ran the event in conjunction with AFL Gippsland and AFL Victoria to celebrate Gippsland’s women’s football.

To kick thingsoff at the Main Oval at 9am when the Churchill Youth Girls took on BoisdaleBriagolong. The Bombers took charge right away and ran away with a72-point victory.

Traralgon Youth Girls and Woodside battled it out on the synthetic oval. TheMaroonswere too strong for the Wildcats, booting13.18 (96) to Woodside’s 1.3 (9). Traralgon’s best were Elaina Domagala,Emily McGovern, Olivia Ambler, Hayley Kamphuus, Emily Birney and Ashlyn Murtagh while Woodside’s key players were Grace Dillow, KieraWalpole, Krista Walpole, Tennille Leadoux, Taliah Frost andEsther Hinkley.

Next up on the main oval was the Moe Youth Girls against the Warragul Industrials, who kicked off at 10.30am. The wind wasn’t Moe’s friend on Sunday, as they found it difficult to find asinglescore. The Industrial’s ran away with the 5.5 (35) win.

At the same time, it was one-way traffic on the synthetic ground, the Bairnsdale Youth Girls dominated Drouin, winning 24.17 (161) to 4.0 (24). Bairnsdale’s Lucy Carroll had aday out, kicking a bag of 11. Among the Redlegs’ best were Carroll, Zoe Cotter, Sophie Hamilton, JasminO'Connor, Evelyn Gudgin and Lydia Gudgin. While standouts for Drouin were Savanah Staunton, Taliah Erhardt, Isabella Vouden,Chelsea Molloy, Ella Duncan and Hayley Rose.

Bunyip’s youth side took on Korumburra on the main stage at midday in ascrap the Bulldogs took away the chocolates 2.7 (19) to 0.4 (4). Best on for Bunyip was Bonnie Carkeek, Tameka Schroen, Holly Carlsen, Sienna Arbon, Bella Rowe and Serena Jordan.

Sale City played Dalystononthe fake grass in athriller. Both teams were well matched, scores were pretty close during the game, but you can’t beat the girls of the Bulldogs breed who got over the line in the end, 7.11 (53) to 4.3 (27).

The first women’s matchstarted at 1:30pm as the dominant Boisdale-Briagolong locked horns with Drouin. After aclose first quarter at 1.1 (7) all, the footywentall the Bomber’s way after quarter time, going into halftime with a16-point lead. Boisdale-Briagolong impressed more as they progressed further into the match. Concedingonly one more single point while adding to their score to go home with a50-point win.

Morwell’syouthgirls played valiantlyagainst

their Phillip Islandrivals,but it wasn’tmeant to be for the young Morwell team going down 2.5 (17) to 3.4 (22).

In the last Youth Girls match, the Newborough bulldogs showed their bite in adominant display of footy, booting 16.8 (104), with Nar Nar Goon only scoring two late points in the last term.

The stage wasset for the Moe/Newborough Allies and Lindenow South to go headtohead in thelast match to bookend afun-filled and entertaining dayoffooty. The teams came out hot, with atightly contested footy it was going to be adog fight. With five minutes gone, one Allies player went down with what appeared to be anasty ankle injuryand was helpedoff the ground.In amatter of mere moments, another player, this time from

Humphrey signs on for four more

FOOTBALL

AFL EXPORTS

BY TOM HAYES

PLENTY of things went in favour of our locals in the AFLthroughout the week of Round 12. One signed anew contract during his first season in the system, while the other earnt his first win at the helm.

GOLD Coast are on aroll.

The Suns have impressed in the last fortnight with two important wins against theBulldogs and now the Adelaide Crows.

It was the Crows who were off to the best of starts, as they booted six goals to two, taking a21-point lead at half time.

Gold Coast slowly bit back at the margin, but the Crows were still ahead by 17 at half time.

Gold Coast turned it on in the third term, establishing their first lead of the game since the opening minutes.

The Suns kicked six goals to three, allowing them to hold afour-point advantage with a quarter of football to play.

The Crows quickly got the lead back early into the final term, before Gold Coast left

them in the dust, with another five lastquarter goals, completing the 25-point win at TIO Stadium in Darwin, 16.16 (112) to 13.9 (87).

Morwell’s Ben Ainsworth was prominent across half forward, with 14 touchesand three score involvements.

Moe’s Bailey Humphrey cappedoff an eventful week with 17 disposals and two goals, in the Suns’ win.

Humphrey signed afour-year extension during theweek, keeping him on the Gold Coastuntil 2028

“I wouldn’t let my mates at home down from back home, Iwouldn’t let them down any time,” Humphrey said.

“So why would Ilet these mates down, they’re no different, might not have known them for so long but they’re still my mates and Igot to show that I’m loyal to them.”

Also on the Gold Coast, Moe’s Sam Flanders has been on the trade radarrecently, with reportsshowingthereisinterest in the 21-year-old.

Flanders looked to establishhis spot in Stuart Dew’splansthis year, but injuryand form has stuntedhis progresssofar this season.

He is shining in the VFL as of late, averaging over 30 possessions and five clearances per game, AFL’s Riley Beveridge reports thatahostofVictorian clubshave shown interest in him.

Flanders’contractwith Gold Coast runs outatthe endofthe 2023 season.

TRARALGON’S Andrew McQualter is off the mark.

The Richmond Tigers interim coach led his side to their first win under his wing, as theTigersdefeated the Giants by six points in athriller.

After goingbackand forth, the scores were tiedwith 30 seconds to go, untilMarlion Pickett kicked the winner after surging from the pack and slotting it.

TheTigers claimed their fourth win of the year, 16.14 (110) to 15.14 (104).

McQualter was pleased with the result, despite it being uncomfortably close.

“It was very stressful, but very rapt to get the result,” McQualter said post-match.

“It’snot about me, it’s relieving forthe club. We were due, we’ve played some good footy, we just needed to get abit of reward for effort.”

theSwampies, hitthe deck with asuspected knee and hip injury. The game was up in the air as the player was attended to on the ground. The crowd waited for news, but the ambulance arrived too late for the game to resume, and there was no result.

Louie Patten Moe/Newborough’s Women’s coach, despite not being able to play out acomplete game, said the day was agreat success.

“It’s agreat idea to get all the teams together for one big day of footy to help promote girl’s and women’s football for the region,” she said.

Patten said the Gather Roundrunginlarger than-normalcrowds and brought the local footy community closer together.

Oakleigh Riley from Churchill’s youth girls’ side said how fun the event was, with her staying the whole day to catch all the footy action.

“It’s great exposure for the girls, and it was abit of fun,” She said.

Based on Sunday’ssuccess, perhaps Female Football Gippsland will do what the AFL did and make Gather Round an annual occurrence in the future.

Cameron McPhan the Region Manager of AFL Victoria Gippsland said, "It was afantastic day and areally great opportunity to get the whole league together and play in front of astrongcrowd. Days like that are rare and our best way to give some recognition to the players and volunteers who put in the tireless hours in getting Female Football going in Gippsland."

NORTH GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

Juniors: Morwell Youth Girl’senjoyed the fun filled Gather Round. Photograph ZaidaGlibanovic

FEMALE FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND

CENTRAL GIPPSLAND JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE

TRARALGON DISTRICT JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE

When it’s time to downsize and enjoyyour freedom

June10

Rage.(PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Smother.(Mal, R) 1.20 Miniseries:The North Water. (MA15+lv,R) 2.15 The Durrells. (PG,R) 3.05 Brian Cox: Life Of AUniverse. (R)

3.55 Landline. (R)

4.25 Designing ALegacy (2023) (PG,R)

5.25 Dolphins: Is Our Love TooDeep? (R)

6.20 TheABC Of (PG,R)

Hosted by DavidWenham

6.50 Bluey. (R) Bingoand Lila play on anew waterslide.

7.00 ABCNews. Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 Sister Boniface Mysteries.

(Ma) Sister Boniface investigates when the defenceminister’s mistress is found dead at hisresidence.

8.15 Vera (Mav,R)Almost adecade after akiller wasconvicted, locals are shocked to learn new evidence has surfaced.

9.50 Miniseries: TheNorth Water.

(Final, MA15+alv) Part 5of5.After healing in amissionarycabin,Sumner returns to Hull to demand moneyfrom Baxter

10.45 Ragdoll. (MA15+av) Rose and the killer circle one another

11.35 TheMessenger (Malsv,R)

12.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize.(R) 9.10 Growing AGreener World. 10.10 Wonderful World Of Baby Animals. (Premiere, PG) 11.00 The World From Above. (R) 11.30 Travel Quest. (Premiere) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Gymnastics. Artistic World Challenge Cup series. Round 1. Highlights. 4.30 Journey Through Albania. (R) 5.40 Weeks

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 TheReal Crown: Inside

TheHouse Of Windsor: Intruders. (PG) Part 3of5

8.25 Westminster Abbey:Behind Closed Doors. (PG) Acrowd gathers to listen when theAbbey bell ringers perform for the Queen’s birthday

9.20 World’s MostScenic River Journeys: Germany. (R) Documents ajourney down the German section of the picturesque Moselle river.

10.15 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses (R) Part 4of4

11.10 Medici: TheMagnificent Part II. (Mav,R)

4.20 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour:Japan Bitesize. (R)

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

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Football. AFL.Round 13.Fremantle vRichmond. From Optus Stadium, Perth.

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

10.20 Cricket ICCWorld Test Championship.Final.Australia v India. Day 4. Afternoon session. From The Oval, London,England

12.10 ICC World Test Championship: TeaBreak. Takesa look at theday’splay.

12.30 Cricket. ICCWorld Test Championship.Final.Australia vIndia. Day 4. Late afternoon session.

3.00 HomeShopping. (R)

4.00 Get Arty (R)A showcase of artprojects.

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

6.00 Nine News Saturday.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 MOVIE: HarryPotter And The Half-Blood Prince. (2009,Mhv,R)

HarryPotter comes into possession of apotions book once owned by themysterious Half-BloodPrince. DanielRadcliffe,EmmaWatson

10.30 MOVIE: Mortal Engines (2018,Mav,R)Two peopletry to stop a conspiracy.HeraHilmar, Robert Sheehan.

12.50 Australia’s TopTen Of Everything. (PGds, R) Acountdown of Australia’s top TV chats.

1.50 9HoneyHacks. (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 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) Lifeguards search forastudent.

6.30 TheDog House. (PGa) Adog goes on acharm offensive.

7.30 TheDog HouseAustralia. (PGa,R) Neglect victim Martin the staffymay finally find the caring home it deserves

8.30 Blue Bloods. (Mv)Jamie and Dannyinvestigatea series of carjackings. Erin seeks out the culprit behind online attacks on her boss, DistrictAttorney Crawford. Eddiehelps awoman being stalkedbya man she met on adating app.

9.30 CSI: Vegas. (Mv) Thebodyofa young girl who waskilled more than 40 years ago is discovered at the bottom of LakeMead.

10.30 To Be Advised.

11.30 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mav,R) Twoland management agents go missing.

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 HourOfPower.

6.30 Compass: Turning TheTide. (PG) Agroup of youngpeople sails atall ship

7.00 ABC News. Alook at the top stories of theday

7.30 DesigningA Legacy (2023) (PG) Part 2of2

8.30 Silent Witness. (Malv) When awoman confesses to murdering her husband, the team triesto determine if all is as it seems.

9.35 TheMessenger (Mal) Following thearrival of the Ace of Spades, Ed begins to see the cards as his true calling.

10.25 In Limbo (Mals, R)

10.55 Interview With The Vampire. (MA15+hv,R)

11.40 Mayfair Witches. (Mav,R)

12.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.05 The Heights. (PG, R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 TheKingdom. (Ma) Marc Fennell investigatesHillsong.

8.55 Acropolis: TheAncient Builders. (PGan,R)Examines the construction of the Acropolis of Athens, a collection of templesand monuments.

9.55 Patagonia: TheFar South.

(PGa) Narrated by Pedro Pascal.

10.40 AShot In AStarryNight: VanGogh Case. (Ma, R) Alook at the death of Vincent vanGogh.

11.40 Secrets Of Playboy: The PlayboyLegacy. (Mans, R)

3.00 TheWorld’sBiggestMurder

Trial: Nuremberg (Mavw,R)

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Football. AFL.Round 13 Carlton vEssendon

10.10 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion andinterviews.

10.40 Cricket ICCWorld Test Championship.Final. Australia v India. Day 5. Afternoon session.

12.10 ICC World Test Championship: TeaBreak. Takesalook at theday’splay.

12.30 Cricket ICCWorld Test Championship.Final. Australia vIndia. Day 5. Late afternoon session.

3.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

6.00 Nine News Sunday.

7.00 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

8.00 MOVIE: Bohemian Rhapsody (2018,Ml, R) Charts the life of Freddie Mercury,the lead singer of the popular rock band Queen. Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton.

10.45 Nine NewsLate. Alook at the latest news andevents.

11.15 TheFirst48: End Of TheRoad (Mal)Alook at the murder of VerlinRay Howard

12.05 Law& Order: Organized Crime (MA15+v,R)

1.00 TheGarden Gurus. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice OfVictory. (PGa)

6.30 TheSundayProject. Alook at theday’snews.

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGa) Contestantswade into treacherous waters as English celebritychef Rick Stein brings his best squid game.

9.10 FBI. (Return, Mav)The FBI stages asting operation to securea massive bomb from an illegal arms dealer

10.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv,R)Lucy goes undercoveratapoker tournament to find out which of the players stole some crucialevidence

5.00 SevenEarly News

5.30 Sunrise.

5.00 NHK World English NewsMorning.

4.10 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.40 Bamay (R)

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al JazeeraNews

4.30 Take Two. (R) 5.00 News Early Edition.

11.00 TheSundayProject. (R) Alookatthe day’snews. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBSMornings.

4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.00 Back Roads (R)

5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 TheDrum

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 AustralianStory PresentedbyLeigh Sales.

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

9.15 Media Watch (PG)PaulBarry takesa look at the latest issues affecting media consumers.

9.35 Q+A. Public affairs program.

10.35 China Tonight. (R)

11.10 ABC LateNews.

11.25 TheBusiness. (R)

11.40 TheSplit (Ml, R)

12.40 Father Brown. (PG, R)

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

7.30.(R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Peer To Peer.(PG,R) 9.30 MakeMeADealer.(R) 10.20 Confucius

WasAFoodie. (PG) 11.10 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (PG) 12.05 WorldWatch.

2.10 The Royals In Wartime. (PGa, R) 3.05 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.35 TheCook

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

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 Secrets Of TheTowerOfLondon. (PG) The Tower is struck by tragedy.

8.30 Big FatQuizOfSport

Guests include Roisin Conaty,Judi Love, Joel Dommett,Dane Baptiste, Kerry Godliman and TomAllen

10.15 TheArtist’sView:U2. (Mls, R) Bono and TheEdge discuss U2’s musicvideos.

10.40 SBSWorld News Late.

11.10 Miniseries:Bonnie And Clyde. (MA15+v) Part 2of4

11.45 Antidisturbios. (Malv,R)

1.35 Cargo (Mal, R)

3.20 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.20 Bamay (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe WorldTonight

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Million Dollar Island. (Premiere, PGal) HostedbyAnt Middleton.

8.30 9-1-1 (Ma) The 118 races to rescue two roommates andhelp awoman whose nightmare became areality Chimney debatesifthe time is right to propose to Maddie. Athena and Maddie search fora missing boy.

9.30 9-1-1: Lone Star (Ma) Captain Strand and the 126 help ahusband whose wife “dies” when sheisnot upside-down.

10.30 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.00 TheBlacklist (Mav)Red’s cooperation with the FBI is disclosed.

12.00 TheRookie. (Mav, R)

1.00 Kochie’s BusinessBuilders. (R)

1.30 Harry’sPractice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

Tuesday, June 13

6am

Hachi: ADog’s Tale.Continued. (2009) 7.40

6amMorning Programs.

1pmRides DownUnder:Workshop Wars. 2.00 Seven’sMotorsport Classic. 2.30Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship.Tasmania SuperSprint. H’lights. 3.30Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship.Tasmania SuperSprint. H’lights. 4.30Full Custom Garage. 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30Storage Wars. 8.30MOVIE:Starship Troopers. (1997, MA15+) 11.05Late Programs.

6.00 Nine News

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Parental Guidance. (PGa) Hosted by AllisonLangdon

9.10 Police RescueAustralia. (PG) Bombtechnicianstravelto countryNSW to detonate explosives used in the mining industry.

10.10 Footy Classified. (M) Footy experts tackle theAFL’s big issues.

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

11.40 Mr Mayor. (PGas)

12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.00 DestinationWA. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop (R)

3.00

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

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGal) Australia’s top chef Josh Niland sets a John Dory mystery boxchallenge

8.40 Have YouBeen Paying Attention? (Malns)Celebrity panellists include Emma Holland, Tony Martinand AlexWard.

9.40 JustFor Laughs Australia. (Mals) Stand-up comedyperformances from Matt Okine, Connor Burnsand Demi Lardner

10.10 FBI: MostWanted. (Masv) Anews anchor is shot dead.

12.00 TheProject (R)

1.00 TheLateShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 HomeShopping. (R)

4.30 CBSMornings.

9GO! (93, 82)

Boom Or Bust? (1990 -Today) (PG)Part 4of4

10.20 ABC LateNews

10.35 TheBusiness. (R)

10.55 Four Corners. (R) 11.40 Media Watch. (PG,R) 11.55 Parliament Question Time. 1.00 Shakespeare And Hathaway.(PG, R) 1.45 The Pacific: In The Wake Of Captain Cook With Sam Neill. (PG, R) 2.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.30 AntiquesRoadshow.(R) 4.30 TheDrum

(R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS WorldNews

7.30 Who Do YouThink YouAre? KerryArmstrong. (PGa) Kerry Armstrongexploresher roots.

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi takes alook at theimportance of sticking to good habits and dropping unhealthy ones

9.30 Dateline: Italy’s1 Euro Homes AlookatanItalian housing scheme.

10.00 SBSWorld NewsLate

10.30 ThePoint (R)

11.30 Pandore. (Malns)

12.25 Hope. (MA15+av)

1.30 Partisan. (MA15+v,R) 3.25 Miniseries: The Walk-In. (Mal, R) 4.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.45 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK

World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC

PhilippinesThe WorldTonight

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home And Away (PGav) Mercedesisintent on sticking around.

7.30 Million Dollar Island. (PGl) Hosted by Ant Middleton.

9.00 TheRookie. (Mav) Nolan and Juarez are on the huntfor afugitive aftera car incident goes awry

10.00 TheRookie:Feds. (Mav) Simone and Carter gettrapped in the tropics.

11.00 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.30 TheBlacklist (Mav)

12.30 S.W.A.T. (Mv,R) [VIC]HomeShopping.

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

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 Parental Guidance. (PGal) HostedbyAllison Langdon.

8.45 Million Dollar Murders: Taken In TheNight (Mv,R)Takes alook at the 1999 unsolved murder of 36-years-old Buninyong woman BelindaWilliams.

9.45 Nine News Late. Alook at the latest newsand events

10.15 ChicagoMed (MA15+am)

Natalie’s behaviourdraws attention.

11.10 See No Evil: Cruel Love (Mav)

12.00 CourtCam (MA15+alv) 12.30 Tipping Point. (PG,R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa)

6.30 TheProject. Alook at the day’snews andevents

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGal) Contestants face elimination.

8.40 TheCheap Seats. (Mal) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald takealook at the week that was.

9.40 NCIS (Ma, R) Theteam investigates after afinancial advisor is found shot at anaval station.

10.30 North Shore. (Mlv,R)Abigail makes ashock announcement.

11.30 TheProject (R)

12.30 TheLate ShowWith StephenColbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBSMornings.

Police retention and crime in spotlight

MEMBER for EasternVictoria Region, Melina Bath, has called on the state government in State Parliament to reverse the high attritionrate of Victoria Police leaving the force.

Ms Bath said law abiding citizensand victimsof crime deserve action from the state government given the concerning ongoing rise in crime in her electorate.

“The Andrews government promised to recruit 500new policeofficersoveratwo-year period, but it’s failed to come anywhere near its own target," she said.

"The reality is there’s only 123 police recruits in training for 2023.

“The Chief Commissioner of Police recently confirmedthat 700 policeofficers leftthe force in the last financial year, 200 more than the year prior.

“He also said police officer recruitments would

need to hit 2000 to cover the workforce losses.

“There is no acceptable level of crime, therefore our hardworking local police officers deserve adequate resources to support their important work maintaining law and order.

“Coming out of COVID restriction enforcement and with an everincreasing administrativeburden placed on our police officers, it’s no wonder there is asense of burnout and frustration.”

Ms Bath said community concerns about the riseincrime and the stretched police workforce are valid.

“Like my constituents,Ihold Victoria Police in high regard, however there is genuine public concern at the lack of frontline officers available to adequately respond to the community’s call for help, when they need it."

Overthe last eightyearsjusticeprocedure offences have risen 81 per cent in Latrobe, 85 per

cent in Bass Coast, 129 per cent in Cardinia, 148 per cent in Casey,186 per cent in South Gippsland and 200 per cent in Baw Baw Shire Council area.

Whilecrimes against the personhave increased 37 percent in Bass Coast, 56 per cent in Cardinia, 51 per cent in Casey,55per cent in South Gippsland, 50 per cent in Casey and 50 per cent in Baw Baw.

“The Andrews government must act to alleviate the workload pressures on our hardworking police officers so they can perform their important job of keeping our communities safe," Ms Bath said.

“I call on the Minister for Police to inform my constituents what he is actually doing to stop the drain of VicPol personnel leaving the force."

The Minister has 30 days to provide aresponse to Ms Bath (as of Thursday, May 18).

Research reveals rocketing rental prices

CALLS for more social and affordable housingcome

as new research reveals that regional Victorians are paying thousands of dollars more per year in rent than they were three years ago.

Community Housing Industry Association (CHIA) Victoria has analysed the SQM Research Weekly Rents Index for the postcodesproposed to play host to athletes'villagesduring the Commonwealth Games 2026.

Since May 2020, median rents for combined units and homes have surged between 21 per cent and 42 per cent across the postcodes of the proposed village locations. It means renters living in those postcodes are now paying between $69 and $100 extra in rent per week compared to the earlydays of the pandemic.

For Gippslanders living in Morwell, the May 2023 askingrent was $337, aweekly rental increase of $100 (42 per cent) since May 2020, with CHIA reporting the Latrobe Valley totals an unmet housing need of 7,300.

CHIA Vic acting chief executive Jason Perdriau said the data highlights the urgent need for the VictorianGovernment to invest in more socialand affordable housing in this month's budget.

"This budget is achancefor the Victorian

Governmenttocontinue the critical investment in social and affordable housing.The Big Housing Build is changinglives, butasthe data shows, more Victorians need access to affordablehousing," he said.

"Rents have soared across Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong and Gippsland over the past three years.

Help bring much needed warmth to community

FOR many of us, the cooler weather signals the needtobring outour winterdoonas,turnupthe heating or buy anew jacket to stay warm and dry. Sadly for many people, these simple comforts are out of reach.

That’s why Uniting Vic.Tas is again calling for the support of people across the Gippsland to help bring some much-needed warmth to the most vulnerable in our community.

As part of this year’s Gippsland Winter Local Appeal, United is calling on people to dig deep and donate -just $30 is enough to buy anew blanket or jacket for someone doing it tough.

Cripplingcost of living pressures are contributing to agrowingnumber of people becoming homeless, with many more at risk of becoming in the coming months.

We wanttokeep as many peopleaswecan rugged up and sheltered this winter.

We can't allow the same thing to happen with no solutions over thenextthreeyears ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

"We are calling on the Victorian Governmentto spend $6 billion on aSocial Housing Investment Fund, which would provide aclear, annual pipeline of social housing projects,delivering 20,000 homes across the state over the next decade.

"We also wait in anticipation on the next steps for the construction of the athletes' villages across regional Victoria. We hope the government will partnerwithcommunity housing organisations to guarantee the accommodation is suitable and affordable for Victorians in housing need after the Games.

"The Commonwealth Games athletes' villages should be used to make an ambitious contribution to social housing in these regional areas that are becomingmore unaffordable for more people. Repurposing the villages intoa mixed tenure model of social, affordable and market rentals, alongside shared equity and market sale homes, wouldprovide hundreds of Victorians with ahome, encourage furtherinvestment in these areas,and demonstratethe valueofrolling out thesekinds of developments across Victoria."

Uniting Vic.Tas Gippsland executive officer Di Fisher said the appeal would not only help people living on thestreets but also support children andfamilies living in poverty and in need.

“This is atimeofgreat uncertainty. Costs are rising, people are really battling to make ends meet, and we know it’s always the most disadvantaged peopleinour community who are hardest hit, especially during the colder months,” she said.

“Thereare more people living on the streets, in cars and in poverty having to make impossible choices between the basics such as paying the rent and putting food on the table.

“We’re asking people to contribute what they can. Your donations will make areal difference to childrenand families that are reallystruggling.”

Donations of new blankets, swags, tents, bedding including pillows, doonas, winter clothes, thermal flasks and non-perishablefood can be madeatUniting’s Sale, Bairnsdale and Leongatha.

To donate online or for more information on how you can help, go to unitingvictas.org.au/ local-winter

File photograph

New programhelping Victorian teachers go rural

THE state government is backing rural and regional communities, withaninnovativeprogramtobring hundreds of student teachers into government primary and secondary schools across the state.

Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins recently launched the Teach Rural pilot program, which will support up to 200 student teachers -orpreservice teachers (PSTs) -toundertake placements at government schools across rural and regional Victoria in 2023 and 2024.

The Victorian Budget 2022/23 provided$2.6million for the Department of Education to partner with Country Education Partnership, which will deliver the Teach Rural pilot program.

The Teach Rural program involves coordinating and supporting groupsofparticipating pre-service teachers to undertake placements in clusters of rural and regionalschools, includinginEast Gippsland, Wimmera, Mallee and North-East Victoria.

Ms Hutchins welcomed the news.

"Undertaking aplacement at arural or regional school is an important and valuable experience for teaching students and could also be the first step towards arewarding career and life in rural and regional Victoria,” she said.

“We’re providing pre-service teachers more opportunities to discover regional and rural communities, while deliveringlocal schools extra supportand local kids better educational experiences.”

Placements will benefit schools in St Arnaud, Bairnsdale, Wangaratta, Tallangatta, the Otways and Swan Hill. The first placements for the Teach Rural programhave started, with groups of teaching students from the University of Melbourne commencing four-week placements at schools in Tallangatta and Wangaratta.

Teach Rural has been designed to remove barriers PSTs can face in doing their placements at rural and regional schools, while supporting ruralschools through better access to pre-service teachers.

The initiative provides participants with asuite of

supports to facilitate the placements and welcome them into the local school and community, addressing barriers that can includerelocation, costs of accommodation and isolation during placement period.

Support for Teach Rural participants includes subsidised placement accommodation, agroup welcome event, awelcome meal with the host school principalormentor, welcome packs with community information, acluster peer network andsupport for mentor teachers to induct their PSTs into the schools.

Since 2019, the state government has invested more than $290 million in initiatives to attract, retainand placeteacherstosupportall ourschools, withnearly 5000 more registered teachersin2022 compared to 2020.

Student teachers interested in participating in theTeach Rural program should visit cep.org.au/ teach-rural

Recall on Rinnai Energysaver heaters

ENERGY Safe Victoria is calling on those using RinnaiEnergysaver heaterswith combined horizontal/vertical on-wall flue systems to get in touch with thesupplier to ensurethey are not venting carbon monoxide.

The energy safety regulator is calling on those using Rinnai heater models308,309,431, 556, 557, 559, 561, 1001, 1004 and 1005 so that the system can be checked by aqualified gasfitter.

Energy Safe and Rinnai were alertedtoan incident involving an incorrectly installed flue, which led to abuild up of condensation and flue system blockage, causing carbon monoxidespillage from the condensate drain.

Energy Safe and Rinnai publicised the potential dangers surrounding incorrectly installed combinedhorizontal/vertical 'on wall'fluesystems in early 2021.

Rinnai’s installation instructions were also updated to stress the importanceofcorrectinstallation of thecombined horizontal/vertical 'on wall' flue systems.

While the heater and combined horizontal/

vertical on-wallflue systems may have been installed correctly at most locations, Energy Safe is advising thoseusing the heater to reach Rinnai to have it inspected.

Rinnai will send agasfitter out, at no cost, to check and, if needed, fix the flue installation.

Rinnai has made contact with 2350 customers for whom it has contact details for. However, Rinnai estimates that there were 4500 combined horizontal/vertical 'on wall' flue configurations sold.

For furtherdetails, refertothe safety alertatesv.vic.gov.au/update/safety/ gas-rinnai-energysaver-installation-audit-program

Carbon monoxide poisoning symptomscan be similar to the flu, including headaches, tiredness and nausea. Seek medical advice if concerned, particularly if symptoms improve when outside.

Carbon monoxide exposure has led to death in severe cases.

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 get around our local area.

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

Applications open for road safety grants

THE state government is giving more communitygroupsacross the statethe chance to receivegrantstodeliver projects that boost road safety in their local areas.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Hornehas encouraged groups to apply for their share of $600,000 as part of the 2023 TAC Road Safety Grants Program. The recently revised program gives community groups the opportunity to identity road safety issues in their area and implement solutions, by coming up with aproject to overcome them.

The program has two funding categoriesRoad Safety Support Grants of up to $50,000 and Road Safety Collaboration Grants of up to $150,000.

Examples of projects that may be funded include those that engagewith communities to raise awareness of the benefits of safe road user behaviours or proven road safety measures.

Communitygroups that are eligibleto applyinclude incorporated associations, not-for-profits, charities, community trusts and social enterprises.

Applications for the 2023 TAC Road Safety Grants Program are now open and close on June 16.

For more information including how to apply visit tac.vic.gov.au/about-the-tac/ community/grants/road-safety-grant-program

Danger: Rinnai heaters recalled Photograph supplied

Kuhlmann tiescut from Morwell

By PHILIP HOPKINS

WHEN ShirleyKuhlmannleavesMorwell later this year to join her daughterinMelbourne, her departuresevers the family’s links to Morwell-and alarge chunkofMorwell and Latrobe Valley history goes with her.

For Shirley is the widow of Cord Kuhlmann, one of the foundersofAKZ Reinforcing, which playeda major role in buildingsome of the Latrobe Valley’s greatest projects, from power stations to landmark hotels, and is stillgoingstrong. AKZwas apioneer in supplying pre-fabricated reinforcing steel components.

Cord, who died in July 2021, aged 91, was one of the European post-war migrants whose influx led to the economic development and social diversity of the Latrobe Valley.

Born in Hamburg, Germany in 1929, Cord escaped the ravages and bombingsofWorld War 2 because he was billeted in Hungary with aGerman family. He grew up in Eidelstadt, an outer suburb of Hamburg, and afterthe war he didanapprenticeship as abricklayer with his father.

Cord was only 21 when he made what became a life-changing decision: he opted to join agroup of 150 young men that the German company Overseas Construction was bringing to Australia for work.

It was ajourney of adventure -atrain trip through Germany, then via boat to Genoa and Rome and then heading across the worldtoAustralia, where they landedonJanuary1,1951. The destination was Morwell:the task was to build the new Morwell power station.

The town of Morwell in those dayswas Victoria’s sixth largest town (1955) with apopulation of more than14,000. About 2300 of the populationin1954 were migrants -65per cent British (down from 80 per centin1947) Dutch 12 per cent and Germans held nine percent.

Many of the immigrantsand local Australians spokeofitasthe ‘boom’ town,Jerry Zubrzycki said in his book, ‘Settlers of the Latrobe Valley’.“The town itself presents to the visitorapicture of great activity and has an air of prosperity, no doubt due to the enormous rate of recent expansion,” wrote Professor Zubrzycki. Construction of the SEC undertaking was in full swing.

Overseas Construction built acamp on the 'Ridge' near Morwell, where Cord worked as asteel fixer. However, there was an initial hiccup; the state

government ran out of money to build the power stationand construction ceased temporarily. A few of the young Germans wenthome but most, including Cord, decided to stay.

“He could see it was better here,” said Shirley. “He never wanted to go back.” (However, she added, whenhedid returntoGermany many decades later, “he loved it”. He had forgotten all his German, but once therefor aweek, “itwas back”.)

Despitethe initial setback,Cordwas confident of Australia’s future and so withtwo friends, AKZ Reinforcing was born (Fred Ammann, Claude Kuhlmanand Bruno Zwierlein). Theirfirst job was asmall building in Latrobe Road -“he liked to work in the area”, said Shirley.

The resurrected Morwell power station was the next job,and from there, the company did not look back.Itwas able to play roles in the construction of the Yallourn Wpower station and Loy Yang A power station. “It all snowballed -itwas the right time in the right place. There was always work,” said Shirley. That work lasted along time as the power stations took years to plan and build.

Even during the notorious BLF strikethat stoppedwork for months on the construction of

LoyYang A, AKZ never closed, but “a lot of the workforce went away for atime,” Shirley said. “That was very difficult.”

AKZ’s activities were not confined to the Valley. The company built infrastructure ranging from tunnels to bridges around Victoria and Australia. The Valley, however, still remained in hissights.

In 1967-68, Cord was part of ateam that took the plungeinto building ahotelinMorwell,which became the Morwell Hotel Motel -the landmark and popular The Top Pub -ofwhich he became adirector. Two years later, he bought the Grand Junction Hotel in Traralgon and remodelled it. Two years later, he built the Churchill Hotel. Cord worked extremely long and hardhours,often

seven days aweek, which did not leave much time for recreation.Hedid not join aservice club but did put in some work with Morwell Apex.

Retirement came in 1989 when Cordwas aged 60 and the small companyhad growninto aworkforce of more than 60 people. The partners sold the business, which has since continued to develop. The various projects that Cord, atough-minded businessman, worked on became“iconsofthe Valley”.“He couldhave gone elsewhere in Australia and never done as well,” Shirley said. “He was a very good businessman and seemed to know when to take an interest in something. He worked hard, which helped.”

Project: Cord Kuhlmann working as asteel fixeronthe Ridge in Morwell, 1951 Photographs supplied

Major role: The lateCordKuhlmann.

Klaverjassen

IF If you enjoy playing cards and love achallenge, come to the Morwell East Senior Citizens (Vary StreetMorwell) every third Thursday of the monthfor agame called Klaverjassen.

Noon start and bring your own lunch.

For more information, call 0428 220 310.

CareFindersinfo session

ARE you getting older and finding it harder to manage on your own?

Need some help, but not sure who to ask or where to go?Ordoyou know an older person who needs some assistance?

LCHS’sCareFinders program helps vulnerable older people access agedcare servicesand otherrelevant services. They also help people access other supports in the community, such as health, mentalhealth, housing and homelessness, drug and alcohol services, and community groups.

An information session will be held Friday, June 23 from 10am to 12noon about the program and what supports are available for older people.

The informationsessionwill be held at Traralgon Neighbourhood Learning House (11-13 Breed Street).

To register your attendance, phone 5174 6199 or email enquiries@tnlh. org.au

Rock n' roll

ROCK and roll dance with the fabulous Honky Tonk Rockers, Saturday, July29from 7.30 to 11.30pmat Newborough Public Hall (topof Rutherglen Rd, Newborough).

Bring your own nibbles/drinks. Cost is $20 per person.

Tea/coffee provided

Phone Anne on 0409 502 914 for more information.

Raffle on the night.

Old time dance

AT NewboroughSenior Citizens Hall (Boolarra Ave, East Newborough).

Every second and fourth Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm to 10.30pm.

The next dance is on Wednesday, June 14.

Trafalgar Men’s Shed

AN idea to form alocal men’s shed in Trafalgar became areality in 2007 under the auspices of the Rotary club and our shed was the former girl guides hall in McGregor Park.

The StatementofPurpose; to create aplace where men can meet, andengage in creative activities that enhance their physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

Followinga period of establishment under good leadership,webecame the Trafalgar Men’sShed Incorporated in February’2010.

Today, we have anew shed in Wellington Street Trafalgar. We offer woodwork, metalwork including welding and abespoke engineering department. Our kitchen/dining room

Community Corner with Liam Durkin

is comfortable and contains avideo library, books and acomputer printer and scanner for member to use.

Membershipisavailable and all men are welcome so come and visit. We are open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 4pm.

You do not have to haveany particular skills to enjoy our facilities, the fire will be going, the ern will be on and good conversation and alaugh is guaranteed.

All clubs need good administrators and we havebeenfortunate,but if anyone with experience in working witha committeeaschairperson, secretary or treasurer, you would be most welcome especially with annual meetings and election of officebearers around the corner.

For more information, phone president Corrie Koppen on 0458 674 450.

We must express our thanks to the Traf News staff for their support over many years for printing our stories and photos. They served avery good purpose and we felt part of awonderful community.

Garden walk

THE Rose Garden Walkers, part of Heart FoundationWalking,meet at the Morwell RoseGarden Rotunda Monday and Wednesday mornings.

Our walks commence at 9am and last between 30-60 minutes.

All are welcome. Come and join us for abit of exercise and lots of fun.

Further enquiries on 0409 846 509.

Field naturalist

LICHENSand Biodiversity: apresentation by Dr Simone Louwhoff will be held on Friday, June 23 at the Latrobe Valley FieldNaturalists Club meeting

Simone is alecturer at Federation University, Gippsland campus,and has been studying lichen for 30 years.

Dr Louwhoff will talk about diversity and ecologyoflichens,focussing on the more commonly found groups in Australia and what distinguishes them.She willdiscussthree interesting lichen projects undertaken recently by university students, and her own research. TheSaturday excursion, lead by Simone, will be to Traralgon South Flora and Fauna Reserve.

Visitors are most welcome. The presentation will be followed by our LVFNC's monthly meeting. On the next day, there is an excursion to the Traralgon South Flora and Fauna Reserve.

For more information, phone secretary on 0410 237 292.

Visit www.lvfieldnats.org to register if you wish to use Zoom.

Traralgon Garden Club

NEXT Meeting of the Traralgon GardenClubwill be at 1pm on Tuesday,June13atthe Traralgon GreyhoundClub, GlenviewPark (McNairn Road Traralgon).E

HEADING NORTH F FOR

via the float entrance.

Topic: Unusual uses for weeds.

Bec Ennis from 'Un-be-weedable' will talk on the medicinal use of weeds. Note the early start of 1pm.

New membersand visitors welcome. Further information -Bryan Corkran on 0408 598 016.

Ghost tours

OLD Gippstown is proud to announce our June Ghost and Park tours. Interested in the stories our original buildings can tell?

What lies within them at night?

Be led by lantern light and explore our authentic buildings at night and hearthe history and stories as you wanderthe darkened streets of our township.

Our experienced tour guide will lead you through an enjoyable and interesting two hours of ghostly exploration. Book now to secure your place.

Saturday, June 24.

Tickets can be purchasedfrom https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ ghost-and-park-tour-june-saturdaytickets-637654340297

Wednesday28thJune (school holidays)https://www.eventbrite com.au/e/ghost-and-park-tour-junewednesday-tickets-637655965157

Moe Cancer Council

MOE and District Cancer Council

Volunteer Group recently held Australia’s BiggestMorningTea at the Moe RSL, raising atotal of $1316.50 through door sales, donations, trading table and araffle. Thank you to all our members and supporters.

Our next meeting will be on Monday, June 26 from 1.30pm at the Moe RSL.

New members welcome

For more Information: Volunteer Group contact Beryl on 5127 4028 or Linda (0427 671 780).

Cancer Council Supporters Hot Line:

1300 65 65 85

Cancer Council Help Line: 13 11 20

We raised$510for our Mother’s Day Raffle, so thank you to those who helped sell the tickets.

Quit Line: 13 78 48

Traralgon Cancer Council

RECENTLY, we held our Biggest Morning Tea for the Cancer Council, with 106 people attending this wonderful morning. It was so well attended we had to quicklyput up another large table.

Guests enjoyed ascrumptious morning tea, raffles,door prizes, trading table and the ever-popular $100 note game. We raised $3400 on the day which was awonderful effort.

All money raised will go to finding acurefor cancerwhichhas affected so many people.

We would like to thank everyone who came on the day to support us: Traralgon Tennis

who baked and who donated goods

The winners of the raffle were: first prize -Nola Penrose, second -Joan Blizzard, third -Lorna Sutcliffe and fourth -Trish Tosch.

We also raised more than $1000 for our Mother’s Day effort with the winners being: Peter Bickley (first) and Peter Renwick (second).Great to see some men winning as many men support us throughout the year.

We are always welcoming new members. We need some younger members to help with our fundraising efforts.

If you are interested in joining our group, please get in touch with Yvonne Jones on 5174 2310 or Mariana Pearse on 0417 051 158.

Chess results

STEVEAhern made auseful contribution, helping anew player Quinton Morgan.

Following the undefeated round,Ian

Hamilton held the advantageinthe latest event.

Withtwo wins, Peter Bakker stayed on top of Cliff Thornton.

Trevor Morgan continued the signs of rapid improvement.

For more on local chess, phone Cliff Thorntonon0413330 458 or Ian Hamilton (5134 1971).

Youcan be apartof Community Corner

IF you are acommunity groupand have any news items you need publicised, feel free to email us at news@ lvexpress.com.au.

You can address the correspondence to Editor, Liam Durkin.

Please write 'CommunityCorner' in the subject line and nothing else. Deadline is Friday 9am to appear in the following Wednesday issue.

Valley Express, Wednesday, 7June, 2023

Great work: Traralgon Cancer Council’sHelenVan Berkel, Helen Orr awent. phs supplied

Knowledge: Bec Ennis willtalk on the medicinal useofweeds at Traralgon Garden Club next week

Communityset to help freeze MND

By LIAM DURKIN

WHEN all is said and done, more is said than done. Those are the words Neale Daniherlives by, and the faceofthe nation's Fight MNDcampaign is once again urging all to show their support in the battle against motor neurone disease.

This year's campaign strikes achord closer to home, as Neale Daniher's son Ben plays for Moe Football-Netball Club.

The Moe community willcome together this Saturday, joining forces with anumberoflocal groups for their own 'Big Freeze' event.

TheGippsland League Round 9clash between Moe and Maffra will feature something much more significant than four premiership points, as blue beanies will be out in force at Ted Summerton Reserve when ahostofluminaries make their way to the venue.

Among those slated to attend include the face of the Fight MND campaign, Neale Daniher (health pending), as well as former larger-than-life North Melbourne premiership player Sam Kekovich and Socceroo Archie Thompson.

In the true spirit of 'putting afreeze on MND', a number of local football identities have bravely put up their hand to be dunked under ice-cold water.

Much like the annual slide eventatthe MCG, those taking the plunge will be submerged oneby-one. Unlike the AFL however, country football requires some improvisation, so instead of aslide, adunking machine has been booked.

Among the 'dunkees' taking part are Moe Football-Netball Club games record holder Peter 'Jibba' Ainsworth, and Maffra FNCchampion Adrian Burgiel.

With the North Gippsland Football-Netball League havinga league-wide bye, as well as neighbouring clubs Newborough and Trafalgar having the bye in their respective leagues, aGrand Final-like crowd and atmosphere is tipped to make its way to Moe.

Theeventhas comeabout through MoeFNC's connection to the Daniher family, and more specifically, current Lion'smidfielder Ben Daniher being the son of the recent Victorian Sport Award recipient.

Speaking in the lead-up to the event,Ben said thesupport from the Gippsland community had been significant.

"It is incredible, our family has just been overawed by the supportfrom the Australian community, especially regional communities like here in Moe," he said.

"We look at the beanie sales every year and Gippsland is alwaysatthe top of the list. It just helps to one day find acurefor MND, every beanie and every donation helps, and the support from local communities has been incredible.

"From the bottomofour heart we couldn'tbemore grateful for the support we are getting.

"This is my second year in Moe playing for the Moe Lions, it has been incredible, the community support from Moe and the greater Gippsland League has been incredible, I've loved my time.

"Dad always comes down to Ted Summerton Reserve,his heath is falling alittle bit, he's hanging on, and finding away to smile.

"He loves heading down to Ted Summerton to watch the Lions play, we haveareallystrong connection with Moe and the Gippsland region.

"There is no surprise to anyone that MND is a really tough disease to deal with, and personally being close to him we'veseenhis decline,it'sreally tough to watch, I'msurepeople that have close people to MND can feel the same way.

"It's tough to see him lose his voice, start to lose his touch, but he keeps fighting on, he's astubborn bugger,healways attacks the day full-on, keeps himselfbusywith the Big Freeze and having a smile on his face.

"While it's starting to take away his voice, with the supportwecan start to take on the load for him."

The Moe FNC has been workingwith an array of community groups, including MoeRacing Club, to make the local freeze atrue all-Gippsland event.

“Our aim is to showcase Gippsland with asea of blue beanies (you can purchase them on the day) and show when you wear your beanie you’re stepping up and fighting withNeale and those affected by MND," Moe FNC president Manny Gelagotis said.

Moe footballers and netballers will all be wearing special Fight MND socks on the day, while a number of prizes and fundraising activities will also be taking place.

The 'Ice Dunk' event will commence at 1.30pm in the cricket net area near the club rooms.

Coles Moe store manager, Jarrod Ryan said the response from customers had been outstanding, with many shoppers adding blue beanies to their usual grocery shop.

"The local team members and community around Moe absolutely love this campaign, it's one of our largest fundraising campaigns we do every year, they love supportingthis campaignand we love getting it out to the community," he said.

"Since 2018 Coles has been sponsoring the MND campaign, proudly raising over $20 millionfor Fight MND."

The Moe Big Freeze event runs on the same weekend as the annual Big Freeze at the 'G, on the now King's Birthday long weekend.

Ben said his dadwould again be frontand centre at the top of the slide.

"It's always his favouritetimeofyear, he always finds the energy to get up for these sort of events, you'llsee him at the top of the slide cackling as he's pushing the celebrities down," he said.

"Dad is abit of acontrolfreak as you can imagine, he's got that old coach in him, but he loves it, he organises celebrities, rushes around, he's doing the walk from Fed Square to the 'G, he'll be there in full flight and having agreat time.

"He finds real purpose in this, he wants to stick aroundfor as long as possible just to see how much money we can raise and hopefully one day find a treatment and cure for this really insidious disease.

"It is going to be incredible, in its ninth year, over $6.5 million raised so far, we can't wait to get stuck into it on King's Birthday and see everyone in the blue beanies."

This year's'sliders' are surfing legend Mick Fanning, Hawthorn great Jason Dunstall,actor EricBana, women'sfootballstar Tayla Harrisand sports presenter Abbey Gelmi.

Blokes gatherfor the biggestbarbecue since 2019

THE annual Latrobe’s Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ was held last Friday, returning after athree-year hiatus due to COVID restrictions.

Aturnout of over450 blokes packed the function centre at Gippsland Sportsand Entertainment Park Morwell, to raise money for Prostate Cancer research and awareness.

Committee Chairman, Bruce Ellen,thanked the large variety of local business sponsors and supporters, attendeesand particularly the organisingcommittee for contributing to a successful fundraising event.

Attendees heard from prostate cancer survivor Barry Whitehead,aswell Latrobe Regional Hospital Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse Leanne Prosser. Both emphasised the importance for men to discuss their prostate health with their GP, as early detection is vital to helpsuccessfully treat the disease.

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

The Gippsland and Latrobe region has a30per

cent higher mortality rate compared to other parts of Victoria, one of the highest rates in the country.

Barbecueguests were entertained by speakers Tony Shaw and Campbell Brown.

Shaw and Brown shared colourful stories from their days in the AFL, while comedian and MC Tom Siegert kept the show running.

Anumberoffundraising activitieswere held, including aphantom race call, table countdown andlive auction.

The organising committee welcomed guestsfrom across the region and even interstate.

Churchill Lions Club assisted on the day, doing afantastic job catering for mass numbers.

The eventhas runsince 2013,althoughthree COVID cancellations meant the 10-year anniversary is still some years away.

Packedhouse: Attendees filled the Falcons social roomsas theLatrobe’s Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ made atriumphant return. Photograph supplied

Team effort: Jeff Hitchinsand LauraTownfromTM&H Mitre10Moe,with Moe footballer Ben Daniher and Moe Football-Netball Club presidentManny Gelagotishopetosee abig crowdatTed SummertonReserve on Saturdayfor the town’s ownFreezeMND round. Photograph supplied

Standing firm alongside timber families

TO the crews working in the coupes. The truckies hauling logs to mills. The mums and dads working the business to keep the team paid and the books balanced. The workers in the mills. The foresters regenerating and caring for growing trees that are habitat now and (would have been) timber for the future.

Now is adevastating time for you all and Ican’t begin to understand your frustration and despair. But know this.

There are people out here who get it. We know your industry is sustainable and renewable.

We know you care for the environment because it’s your livelihood. We know treesgrowback and that many of you are harvesting the same coupes that your fathers and grandfathers felled before you. We know your efforts produce flooring, window frames, staircases, furniture and the very structures that putaroof over our heads. We know your labour produces jobs and customers in our towns and we support you for it.

We know that without your product,Australia will just import more hardwood from places without the environmental standards you are obliged to observe. Orangutans will suffer. We know you’ve adapted for decades, added value and changed the way you harvest. We know your timber actually storescarbon permanently and the regrowth absorbs more from our atmosphere as it grows. We know you’ve given an inch and seen greens (and governments) take amile. We know you’ve put up with lies andfought valiantly with facts againstemotion aboutcute furry animals. We know that despite the extinction of many Australian species, forestry has not been the cause of asingle oneofthem. We know you’ve had the patience of saints when your workplaces have been invaded and blockaded and you’ve been stopped from working -somethingthat no onewould accept in any other workplace.

And we know you’ve dropped everything and risked your lives and equipment time and again to protectour towns and homes wheninevitably the bush burns.

We also knowyou won’thave muchtimefor politicians -but know there are plenty of us that stand with you and your industry, and are just as frustrated we haven’t been able to stop the bastardry that is shutting down your industry.

We won’t stop trying.

It may not mean much right now, but know you have friends and supporters.

And we say thank you and we stand with you.

Danny O'Brien Member for Gippsland South

Celebrating those impacted by stoke

IWRITE to thank your community for their interest and input to ourannual Stroke Awards, which celebrate Australians for their care, courage, and achievements in this important field.

This year, the winner of the courage award left barely adry eye in the house.

The resilience shownbyVictorian Nicole Gallacher, who had astillborn baby afterher stroke in November 2020, was amazing to see.

What made her accomplishment even more special is that she wasjoined on stage by her husband Dave,who nominated her for the award, and their newbornbabyAngus, who was namedafter the neurosurgeons who saved her life.

Other 2023 StrokeAwardwinners include the inspirationalyoung Noah Barlow,who couldn’t att dthe t, he sinh pital. The 13-y

Time to look to the future

VICTORIAN’S will enjoy apublic holiday next Mondayfor the official birthday of KingCharles III.

While not his actual birthday, it acknowledges the British monarch as our head of state.

But most people will not actively celebrate the King’s birth and will likely give it little or no thought.

Instead we should look forward to when Australia is arepublic and we have another day designated on our calendar marking our transitiontoatotally independent nation.

While the Real Republic Australia doesnot campaign for the replacement of Australia Day, we suggest that anew day on our calendar marking the change to arepublic would havemore meaning than the monarch’s birthday it would replace.

A‘Republic Day’ or ‘Constitution Day’, however we might term it, could help Australians focus on our future and the issues that unite us as anation.

There is no contradiction in respecting King Charles as our head of state under the Australian Constitution -just as we respected Queen Elizabeth II -while using the lawful,peaceful, and democratic processes available to us under that same Constitution to change it and become arepublic.

There is plenty to think about next Monday, especially how we might become arepublic.

year's budget with funding slashed adevastating 80 per cent since just 2020.

Funding for agriculture hasn't escaped the axe either with a34per cent funding cut and Daniel Andrews signing the final death warrant for our sustainable native timber industry and communities in thestate's east. In abrutal State Budget, regional Victorians are being punished for the government's own incompetence.

Peter Walsh Leader of The Nationals

Decision welcomed

IWELCOME the state government's move to end native forest logging at the end of the year,and congratulate the many volunteers, environmental organisations, communitygroups, and political candidateswho have worked tirelessly for many years to achieve this end.

Together, we have savedour beautifulVictorian native forests Victoria's nativeforests are unlikeany other. They have historic beauty, and hold an extraordinary diversity of fungi, plant and animal life.

his local primary school and on the playgrounds. A survivor of nine strokes and a huge Star Wars fan, Iwas among agroup of Stroke Foundation representatives who were lucky enough to hand deliver Noah’s awardtohim, along with Darth Vader, Stormtroopers and Princess Leia herself. That was amoment both Noah and Iwon’t ever forget.

We alsohad the pleasure of recognising Queensland’sDouglas Hemming with acreative award. Doug foundart after hislifechanging stroke. He had worked as ateacher for five decades, right up until the day before his stroke in May 2021.

The very personal stories of Nicole, Noah and Douglas were just afew of the awe-inspiring experiences we got to shareinduring our annual awards ceremony. Theyshowcourage, hope,resilience and are such astrong reminder of why we do what we do at the Stroke Foundation.

Nominees camefrom across Australia, and from all walks of life. It is always ajoy to read their stories and meet the finalists at the event.

There are 445,000 Australians livingwith the impact of stroke. That means there are people in everycommunity who know exactly whystroke, awareness, treatmentand recovery is so important, and the people who support those critical services are our heroes.

Ihope to hear more stories of tenacity and achievements in our 2024 Stroke Awards, so please consider submittinganomination to recognise and celebrate the people in your community.

Dr Lisa Murphy Stroke Foundation CEO

Assurance in the fact

LIAMDurkin attempts to explain theassault on the timber industry,"The Court ruled VicForest did not do enough to protect possum species -greater and yellow bellied gliders" (Gippsland Times May 30).

In short, there is recognition that creatures need protection -but which creatures?

People familiar with the Bible would know that we are all God's creatures. Certainly, there has been great resistance to God from the very start.

There is some assurance in the fact that that we have survived until

The Real Republic Australia wants to see Australians themselves choose our head of state through agenuine direct-election process.

We do not want onepickedfor us by politicians, nor do we support the Australian Republic Movement’s idea of having more than 800 federal and state politicianshand down to voters ashortlist of candidates.

The “politicians’republic” model failed at the 1999 referendum and we think it will be rejected again if it is the only choice offered at afuturereferendum.

AM

Muir

David

Real Republic Australia Chair

David Muir AM

Real Republic Australia Chair

Budget of little benefit

UNDER Labor, Victoria is broke.

In abudget that highlights total financial incompetence, thestategovernmentismaking life harder for regional Victorians with funding slashed in key areas such as roads, health and agriculture.

On health, there is no plan in this budget to solve regional Victoria's workforce issues.

This will only leave more Victorians on waiting lists, struggling to receive the urgent care and treatment many desperately need.

In fact,Labor has cut afurther $1 billion from the health system after cutting $2 billion in last year's budget, despite the crisis gripping the system.

There is also no funding in this budget for desperately needed hospitalinfrastructure in Mildura, Shepparton, Bairnsdale, or countless other regional communities.

Our crumbling regional roads will also be left to disintegrate with maintenance funding slashed by 45 per cent since 2020 with $260 million cut in this year alone.

Labor is risking the lives of Victorian motorists by taking money from the Transport Accident Commission to try hide their mountainofdebt, leavinglife savingroad safety initiatives on the cutting room floor.

These savagecutscome despite deathson Victorian roads beingupa shocking 30 per cent on thistimelastyear and followingfederal Labor's slashing of $1.3 billion from Victoria's roads.

The regional development budget has also been halved from $211.5 million to $106.6 million in this

According to the experts, the decision to end nativeforest loggingsix yearsearlier thanplanned is akin to preventing the carbon emissionsfrom 730,000 cars every year.

Preserving these carbon stores is avital part of our efforts to move to astrong, clean economy of the future.

Ialsowelcome the $200 million package that will support native forest logging workers and their families in the transition awayfromthis industry Success has many fathers -or, in this instance, fathersand mothers. Among the many voices who've called for thischange in recent years are the two recent stateindependent candidates from my own community -Sophie Torney of Kew, and Melissa Lowe, from Hawthorn.

In successive federal and state elections, our incredible community has stood up and demanded the state government protect our native forests. It was areally happy day for all Victorians who care for our forests, our environment, and our climate.

We'll keep working together to protect these assets -for ourselves and for our children.

Dr Monique Ryan Independent for

Kooyong

Have your say

THE LatrobeValleyExpress welcomes letters to the editor.

Preference will be given to brief, concise letters which address local issues.

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

TheExpressdoes not publishletters from anonymouscontributors.

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

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

Email letters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include 'lettertothe editor'inthe subject line.

Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm.

Cause: Stroke Foundation chief executive Dr Lisa Murphy says thereismuch to celebrate in those affected by stroke. Photograph supplied

Statewide program is dear to muso

COMMENT

BY HARRYCOULSON

MY name is Harry Coulson and Iamaguitarist, composer, educator and general troublemaker. Ihave also been aregularguestonABC Statewide Drive for the past eight-plus years.

Istarted really focussing on recording, touring and promoting my own original music around 2014/15. Idecided that in order to make the process sustainable, Ineeded to get paid good money for gigs (at least most of the time), mostly to look after whatever crew Idragged along to play with me, but also to give myself areason to keep going with the whole project.

Ihad limited success with booking decent paying showsinMelbourne city,and thegigsthat Idid book were often poorly attended which in turn caused afew scowls on the way out form the beleaguered bar managers. Ialsofound myself competing for airtime withcommunity radio, most of whom were understandably swamped with submissions and probably didn’t know what to do with abloke whowrote obscureinstrumental stuff and occasionally sang like one might imagine Croc Dundee would, but who also were caught in atrap of trying to be 'Triple JLite' and were more interested in the electronic, synthy nonsense that was in vogue at the time.

Istarted looking to the regions -Castlemaine, Bendigo, Mornington, Ballarat,Wandiligong, Shepparton andAlbury/Wodonga justtoname afew.

It was there that Ifound venues willing to pay a decent fee for abandtocome and perform, where Ifound audiences willing to sit down and listen to us, whereIfound festivals willing to haveusonthe bill and where Ifound that atallscraggly yobbo, who refused to bring alaptop to agig in lieu of a proper live kicking rhythm section regardless of the financial incentives, was welcomed with open arms.

During this time, Ifound myself getting aregular fortnightly spot on ABC Statewide Drive.

Iwould basically go on every week and talk shit playing everythingfrom the sublimeto the ridiculous and giving my totally biased and

unverified opinion on it it was ahell of alot of fun, and from all reports, grew to be one of the most popular segments of the week.

The audience Igained were abit older they slowlydribbledonto my social media statistics,

Innovation and collaboration centrepiece of visit

COMMENT

BY KRISTY McBAIN

RECENTLY, Ihad the great pleasure of touring Greater Gippsland to meet with local councils, peak associations, business and community groups.

Havinggrown up in Traralgon,I know thisbeautiful part of the country well, but agreat deal has changedsinceIleft, andagreat dealwillcontinue to change -with new challenges and opportunities across industry emerging

This is aregion that experienced extreme bushfires on the back of years of severe drought, endured disastrous floods after record rainfall, and faced COVID-19 -all of whichthe community are still rebounding from.

The end of white paper manufacturing at Maryvale,the plannedclosures of the Yallourn and Loy Yang power stationsoverthe next decade, the hurdlescurrently faced by the localtimber industry, as well as the significant opportunities of the Greater Gippsland Offshore WindProject means there is significant transformation taking place across the region.

At the heart of this is the need for proactive planning, collaboration and recognition that communities are their own biggest asset.

This was evident in my site visits to local businesses harnessing the assets and productive nature of the region -from Fenning Timbers Bairnsdale, the MetungHot Springs, andthe Tambo Valley Honey shop.

Ihad productive discussions with local councils across Gippsland about their priority projects,and

the benefits of their One Gippsland forum -which is forging awhole-of-region approach to arange of issues.

In additiontothis, Imet with anumberofregional development leaders,including the Regional Development Australia Gippsland Committee and the Committee for Gippsland, which launched the GippslandFreightInfrastructure MasterPlan during my visit.

Imet with theGunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation and was impressedwith their commitment to build strong partnerships acrossthe region to deliver opportunities and economic independence for their community.

Ialsomet with the Victorian Minister for Local Government,Melissa Horne, and the Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Harriet Shing, to discuss howwecollectively positionregional communitiesasgreat places to live and areas with diverse opportunities.

The resounding theme from these meetings was the need to diversify regional jobs, to improve regional connectivity, to increase access to social and affordable housing, to capitalise on the transition to renewable energy sources, and to deliver stronger community infrastructure and better road and rail networks.

Our government is already delivering on much of this: Our $15 billionNationalReconstruction Fund (NRF) will mean more things are made in our regions and more jobs will be available. Our $1.9billion Poweringthe Regions Fund (PRF) willsupport industry to reduce their emissions. Our $750millionLocal Roadsand Community

Infrastructure (LRCI)Program is funding priority local road and community infrastructure projects.

We are investing $2.2 billion towards regional communications, including upgradestoNBN’s Fixed Wireless and Fibre networks,and our Better Connectivity Planfor Regional andRural Australia Our Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee,aLabor election commitment delivered early, has supported more than 4700 Australians. We are wiping the HELPdebt for eligibledoctors and nurse practitioners that work in rural and regional communities.

We are delivering 180,000 fee-free TAFE places across the country -especially in our regions. And we are reducing costs for people in our regions through our cheaper childcare, cheaper medicine, and energy price relief plan.

The key to reshapinghow we develop our regions, likeGreaterGippsland, starts with listening to the voicesofcommunity, business,and localorganisations -which is why this visit was so important.

Hearing first-hand about local challengesand place-based solutions helps inform what investment andsupportisneeded to improvethe liveabilityand enhance the productivity of our regions -ensuring they reach their full potential.

This is our practical and collaborative approach in full swing, and part of our commitment to forging functioning relationshipsacross all levels of government and industry.

Ilook forward to engaging with many of these leaders at the upcoming Australian Council of Local Government in June, and to progressing many of these ideas with my Ministerial colleagues.

but Isuspect there are far more out there than I will ever see reflected in likes or followers. They startedturning up to gigs and Iwould only know when they came over to introduce themselves, they would buy us drinks, come to lunch with us during festivalsand put us up at their houses whenwe wereintown for shows. Ieven had one bloke offer me aloanofa Mercedes for atour once!

Ilearnedthat the Statewide Drive program meant so muchfor the people of rural Victoria, many of whom still listen to the radio rather than jump on the internet for any info on local matters that matter to them.

It wastheir voice and Iwas proud to be apart of it. The show however has now not run for amonth, with no communication from ABC management as to why it has been pulled off air, nor when it will return.

Instead, listenersget patched into the Melbourne broadcast and given the traffic report for the Ring Road every 15 minutes which is of course about as useful to them as an ashtray on amotorbike.

I’m not so worried about losingmysoapbox I’ll adapt and find something else to do but I worrythatthe audience that Igrew to love are getting stitched up experience has taught me that if someone doesn’t tell you what is going on it means they are doing somethingthatyou aren’t going to like.

I’ll ask this of anyone now who may have ever listened in or come to ashow. If you want your voices heard on adedicated platform, ring up your local radiostation and demand to know when Statewide Drive will be back on air.

Don’t thinkthatjust because youaren’t metro Melbourne thatyou don’t matter, becauseyou certainly matter to me.

Fromthe bloke who youtook in when the hipsters turned him away.

See ya in the funny papers!

Harry Coulson is an Australian musician

Kristy McBain is New South Wales Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories.

Special guest: Latrobe CityMayor Kellie O’Callaghan and is NewSouthWalesMinister forRegional Development, Local Government and Territories,KristyMcBain outside GPAC. Photograph supplied

Sound: Muso Harry Coulson. Photograph supplied

SMART CHOICE ELECTRICAL MART CH

SMARTChoice Electrical has more than 40 yearsexperience operating in the Latrobe Valleyand surrounding areas

The team hasawealth of knowledge in the electrical industry which ensures peace of mind when clients call SmartChoice Electrical forany job

SmartChoice Electrical business owner PeterGriffiths said the companywas proud of the high qualityworktheydo.

“Weare proud of our achievements in electrical safetyand quality, consistentlyproviding a high levelofworkmanship,” Mr Griffiths said.

Peterand CarolGriffiths at Smart Choice Electrical guarantee their work and products arethe best possible

Theyprovide customerswith the securityofknowing theyare dealing directlywith the approachable business owners

Working in the local area, the Griffiths have seen that many residents in the Latrobe Valleyare still onlyprotected electricallyby fuses,anissue that can be quickly fixedbythe installation of safety switches that should be considered

by all households

SmartChoice Electrical specialise in working with 240 volt and 415volt experiences including mains,metering,power,light and air conditioning

If youare planning arenovation, SmartChoice Electrical can provide advice and customise their work to ensureyour needs aremet.

To find out howSmartChoice

Electrical can solve your domestic,

ruraland commercial needs, phone Peteron0438 177153 or Carolon51262110toarrange ano obligation, free quote.

Pensioner discounts arealso available

Notice

Phone: All classifications before 3pm Monday

In person: Latrobe Valley Express 21George St,Morwell NextraLotto Moe 1-3 MooreSt, Moe Seymour St

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

to place your classified in our WEDNESDAY PUBLICATION 5135 4455

GOLDEN Retriever puppies, p/bred, m/c 956000 013015585/2953810/4808 4/4311/6788, RB217648, ready for new homes 3 June $1750. 040 817 0073.

MALTESE XPoodle, pups, 7wks, 1white male, 1sable male, 95600 0014971924/4864425, RB 211780, $1950. Phone Alan 0412 761 402.

SALAMI

Pigs for sale. Phone 0427 665 796.

Landscaping Mulch

Beautify your garden. Bulk quantity available, $25m3. Phone 0412 613 443 or 1800 468 733.

Mobility Scooter

Eco, brand new, batteries, everything working including charger $900. Phone 5176 4307.

NEW chainsaw (never been used), motor mower, two petrol garden blowers, petrol hedge trimmer, Echo straight shaft line lawn edger, good used chainsaw. All in good working condition. For info and prices 0477 080 255.

Garage Sales •

When making contact with people for the first time, it is advisable to meet in apublic place and let amember of your family or atrusted friend know where you will be. We would advise readers and advertisers to exercise caution and giving out personal details. This will be respected

Public Notices •

WHEN YOU GO LOCAL, YOUGROW LOCAL!

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:

Home Maintenance

CHURCHILL, 32 Amaroo Drive, Sat. and Sun., 8am -5pm. Everything must go! All household, shed, garden including lawn mowers, whipper snippers, lots of bargains! Help support our local Tradies while they service, build and repair in our local communities - check out our Business Guide Pages and Home Maintenance Section in the Classifieds every Wednesday for your local Tradies

● Finance and accounting

● Legal and governance

● Clinical care and AHPRA registration

● Fundraising and development

● Non-profit management

To be considered for this opportunity, please contact the CEO on 5127 7488 to receive an application pack.

TRARALGON, 9Rainbird Court, Saturday, 8am -12 noon. Moving Sale! Tools, fishing rods, kitchenware, records, bric-a-brac and more.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Latrobe Valley Village Residential AgedCare and Retirement Village, Newborough

PROPOSAL 5G UPGRADE TO EXISTING

MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION

Address: Monopole -John Field Reserve (Northern Reserve), Southwell Ave, Newborough 3825 (4V\PP3273)

Reference: M1129 Moe East

1. The proposed works include the addition of new 4G &5Gequipment and associated works including the replacement of the existing triangular headframe; the replacement of 3existing 4G antennas (less than 2.8m long); the installation of 3new 5G active antenna units (AAU) (less than 1m long); the replacement of 9existing remote radio units (RRUs); and ancillary equipment including but not limited to GPS antenna, mast head amplifiers, deplixers, combiners, antenna mounts, cable trays, fibre and electrical cabling necessary for the operation or proper functioning of the low-impact facility.

2. Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

3. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements. An EME Report and further information can be obtained at www.rfnsa.com.au/3825020.

4. In accordance with Section 7ofC564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Reinier Hanekom (Plan Consult Town Planning), 0754306632, Suit 6-10, 28 Eenie Creek Road, Noosaville, 4566 or info@planconsult.com.au by 5pm on 23/6/2023.

oven/stove repairsincl.oven doors Reliable,experienced and friendly.Most parts arecarried on-board. Free phone estimates. 12 month guarantee on repairs. Phil 0412 165542 ovenlec.com.au REC. 9764

Carpentry &Maint. Decks and outdoor areas, repairs, locks, picket fences, cladding etc. Ph Dean 0432 249 782 9am -5pm.

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.

General plumbing, repairs/ maintenance, drainage and sewerage, roofing and guttering. Blocked drain, sewer and storm water and 4000 PSI drain hydro cleaning. Small jobs welcome. Glenn 0437 327 879. Lic. No. 45333.

Public Notices

Jim's Mowing is looking for aFranchisee in the Latrobe Valley area. CONTACT 131 546

DELIVERERS WTD

•

LATROBE VALLEY EXPRESS MORWELL OFFICE HOURS KING’S BIRTHDAY

RECEPTION will be CLOSED on Monday 12th June

The CLASSIFIEDS phone line WILL BE OPEN between 9am - 12 noon Phone 5135 4455

NEWS STORIES can be directed to the Newsroom on 5135 4429 or email: news@lvexpress com au

St. Vincent DePaul Primary School MORWELL ITALIAN TEACHER F-6 (Thurs. and Fri.)

LIBRARY TECHNICIAN (Two days per week)

St Vincent's is seeking applicants for two leave positions, initially, for the remainder of the 2023 school year.

Both positions play an important role in delivering high quality learning opportunities for our students. We look forward to welcoming you to be part of our dynamic and collaborative team.

St Vincent's community is committed to the safety, wellbeing and protection of all children in our care. Please contact the principal for further clarification or details about either position.

Applications via email to Dave Cooper (Principal) by Friday 16 June 2023 principal@stvmorwell.catholic.edu.au

Personal Carer Worker in Dalkeith Garden -Traralgon

Do YOU have aflair for Residential Care? If so, join our beautiful home in Traralgon and help our clients to enhance and live their best lives.

What we look for:

● Cert. III or higher in Individual Support or related studies (i.e. nursing)

● Agenuine passion for caring for our elders

● Able to work independently and as part of a team

● Able to communicate and build rapport with clients in English

Why work with us?

● Not-for-profit salary packaging advantages to give you more money in your pocket

● Paid training hours to build your skills

● Carer traineeships if you are not yet qualified

● Dedicated senior carers to help induct and mentor you

● Potential to move within Benetas so that your story with us continues Contact Jasmine Langstaff on 03 5174 1759 or reception.dalkeithgardens@benetas.com.au www.benetas.com.au/careers

TRAFALGAR HIGH SCHOOL EMPLOYMENT

STUDENT SUPPORT

If you're interested in working within aschool environment, are flexible, willing to learn new skills and work as part of adynamic team with the benefit of having the school holidays off, then we want to hear from you. Applications to be submitted via https://www.education.vic.gov.au/ Job

Need

Contact Claire Gibson Business Manager Email: Claire.gibson@education.vic.gov.au

Ambulance Victoria is looking for members to join our Community Advisory Committee

The Committee is made up of members of the community who reflect the voice of patients, carers, families, and the diversity of the Victorian community and ensures that these voices are heard, understood and integrated across AV's services.

A

Appointed by the AV Board, members must be entirely independent of AV and must be able to represent and reflect the views of their community. This is avoluntary role however members being paid for meeting attendance and reasonable travel is reimbursed.

Do you have?

● Ability to represent and voice the needs of your community members

● Excellent communication skills

● Ability to work collaboratively with others

● Availability to attend 4meetings ayear for the next 2years

We strongly encourage Expressions of Interest from adiverse range of people.

To apply, please submit an Expression of Interest and your resume to: joel.marley@ambulance.vic.gov.au by Friday 16th June 2023.

For further information and to download an Expression of Interest form please visit: https://www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/community

SEDA College (Victoria) is the leader of hands on education for Year 11 &12students. We partner with peak industry organisations to provide our students unique opportunities and experiences specific to their interests. Our students will receive atailored career plan to develop key employability and life skills for asuccessful future. The College is currently recruiting for the following roles:

Teacher (Sports Development Program)

● Full Time Maximum Term Contract from 16 October 2023 to 10 November 2023

Education Engagement Assistant

● Maximum Term Contract 30 August 2023 to 13 October 2023

● Part Time Employment (Mondays and Tuesdays

4.5 hours per day and Wednesdays 4hours per day)

Interested applicants with VIT registration may potentially cover both roles.

For more information on the position and for instructions on how to apply visit: http://www.seda.vic.edu.au/about-seda/ jobs-at-seda-college/

Applications close 16 June 2023.

Personal Carer/Home Care/ Support Worker in Moe and Morwell

Do YOU have aflair for Community Care? If so, join our Gippsland team and help our clients to enhance and live their best lives.

What is the role?

Personal Carer/Home Care/Support Worker (Moe / Newborough /Yarragon /Trafalgar/ Morwell / Churchill /Traralgon)

What we look for:

● Cert. III or higher in Individual Support or related studies (i.e. nursing)

● Students studying Individual Support or related

● Areliable car and valid driver's licence

● Unqualified but have agenuine passion for caring for our elders

Why work with us?

● Not-for-profit salary packaging advantages to give you more money in your pocket

● Amileage allowance when you travel between client homes

● Paid training hours to build your skills

● Digital devices to keep you connected and organised on the road

● Carer traineeships if you arenot yet qualified

● Dedicated senior carers to help induct and mentor you Contact Denise Men 03 8823 7900 or denise.men@benetas.com.au www.benetas.com.au/careers

PAINTERS WANTED

TEACHER/TUTOR

Looki ng for a teacher/tutor who has the experience to help teach aGrade 6 student with signs of dyslexia, how to read and write. Would be an ongoing part-time position over the next 6mths to help prepare the student for high school next year. Hours &days can be flexible. Email resumes to: your_perfectday@ live.com

CARPET/ VINYL LAYER

Carpetworld Bairnsdale are seeking an experienced carpet/ vinyl layer. Must have own vehicle and tools. Ongoing work and attractive rates. Email: admin@ cwbairnsdale.com.au

ICU/PICU NURSES

Clutteer into cash! !

Use

Gippstown Reserve Committee of Management is seeking EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST from aperson/s or organisation with demonstrated experience and ability to OPERATE THE CAFE AT OLD GIPPSTOWN

211 Lloyd Street, Moe. Expressions of Interest including references should be with the undersigned by 5pm on Wednesday, 21st June 2023 by mail to PO Box 290, Beaconsfield 3807 or by email to secretaryoldgippstown@iinet.net.au Bill Baker, Secretary.

URGENT Deliverers Wanted TRARALGON, MORWELL and NEWBOROUGH

Would you liketodeliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesdayand/or Wednesdayafternoons in Traralgon, Morwell and Newborough. Please apply to: The Circulation Manager0456000 541

Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit. Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome

CareersatLatrobe

LatrobeCityCouncilhasexcitingopportunitiesforenthusiasticand forward-thinkingindividualswithapassionforprovidingexcellent servicestoourcommunity.

• Community Recovery andResilience Officer- CommunityRecoveryand Resilience

TemporaryFull Time

• LeisureContractManager &Service Analyst- eContractManager AnalystPermanentPartTime

• Traralgon Flood Recovery ProjectManagerTemporaryFull Time

• Education andPublic ProgramsOfficer - Educationand PublicPrograms Officer Gippsland PerformingArtsCentreslandPerformingArtsCentre- Permanent Full Time

• Enhanced FamilySupportPractitioner - FamilyS ortPractitioner

PermanentPartTime

• Operations Officer -GPAC-GPAC-Permanent Full Time

• SeniorTheatre Technician - niorTheatre Technician- PermanentFull Time

• LibraryServices Officer-Casual

• Duty Manager- Leisure- Casual

• Customer Service Officer /Lifeguard-Casual

• LearntoSwimInstructorwimInstructor- Casual

• Preschooland Childcare –MultiplePositions - Childcare– Multiple Positions

Casual

Forfurtherinformationincludinghow toapply,positiondescriptionsand applicationclosingdates,pleasevisitour websitewww.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

Pleasenotesuccessfulapplicantswillbe requiredtoapplyforandsatisfactorilyobtain aNationalPoliceCheckandWorkingwith

ChildrenCheck

www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

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TO the staff at the Italian Club Morwell, thank you for being so caring when my wife had afall. Also the two gentlemen that stayed with her until the Ambulance arrived, so very grateful. Can't thank you all enough. Ron Holman.

DAVIES, Dennis. 23/10/1929 -31/5/2023.

Family and friends are warmly invited to a Celebration of the Life of Dennis Davies to be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Moe Chapel, 6 Ollerton Ave, Newborough at 1.30pm on THURSDAY (8 June 2023). The Service for Dennis will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on live streaming.

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DONELLY (Chojnicki), Susanne Claire. Passed away suddenly at home in Trafalgar on 1st June 2023. Aged 70 years

HARDY, William Peter. 3/7/1934 -28/5/2023. Dearly loved husband of Eunice. Loved father of Gavin and Mandy, Geoff and Rozalie. Loving grandpa of Shannon, Lauren, Haydenand Courtney. Poppy of Sarah and great papa of Ellie. Thank you Darl for over 66 years of loving and caring, you were my lighthouse

HOGGARD, Marg.

Deepest sympathy to Rob and family.

We will miss you

From Friends That Met at Table Number 7.

MONTELEONE, Salvatore (Sam). Passed away peacefully at Latrobe Valley Village Moe on 1st June 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Aged 90 years

TAYLOR (Toft), Vera. 15/1/1928 -23/5/2023. Forever in our hearts, our beautiful mum/little nanny. It's not what we write, it's not what we say. It's how we remember you, in our own special way. Love always your son Chris, daughter-in-law Sharon. Nanny of Christie, Melissa, Brandon and Danielle and partners. Beloved Little Nanny to all her great grandchildren.

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!

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Deaths •

ADDISON (Eddy), Tricia. Passed away peacefully at Dandenong Hospital on 28 May 2023. Aged 54 years Beloved wife of Chris. Loving mother of James and Ryan. Loved daughter of Ian and Margaret, sister of Stephen and Tammy. Aunty of Shane, Lexin, Erin, Sky, great aunty of Rylann and Dustin. At peace in the arms of God Forever loved and missed Rest In Peace For Funeral details visit: www.nielsenfunerals.com.au

KAYAK

Outback pedal kayak, comes with all accessories, excellent condition, $1800 o.n.o. Ph 0427 404 666.

Machinery &Plant •

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BALCOMBE, Allan James (Tiny). Passed away at Wangaratta Base Hospital 30/5/2023. Aged 77 years Eldest son of James and Mary of Toongabbie. Brother to Frank, Bev and Shirley and uncle to their families. Rest in Peace Graveside Service at Marrar Cemetery at 2pm FRIDAY 9June 2023. "Keep on Truckin"

Dearly loved and loving wife of Martyn. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Shane and Anastasia, Belinda and Richard. Adored grandmother of Stephanie (dec.). For Funeral details see: latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

FRESCURA, Giovanni (John).

14/12/1933 -31/5/2023.

Passed away peacefully at Bupa Traralgon surrounded by family on 31 May 2023.

Aged 89 years

Dearly loved husband of Pam.

Much loved father and father-in-law of Robert and Angie, Paul and Leanne, Carla and Bruce, Marilena and Skot, Annalisa and Mark. Adored pop/nonno to his 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

ROBERTSON, George Struan (Reverend).

17/4/1930 -4/6/2023. Adored husband of Ann for 68 years.

Beloved father of Katrina, Jean, Chrissy and Frank and father-in-law to Brian and Jo.

Dearly loved husband of Jean (Poalina) for 69 years. Much loved father and father-in-law of Anthony, Maria and Shaughan, Louisa and Frank, John and Rhonda, and Connie. Adored nonno of 11 grandchildren and biz nonno of 17 great grandchildren. GP1657954

Loving grandpa to Madeline, Ben, Bess, Kate and Abbey. Dearly loved and sadly missed always As George always said: "You are Precious".

SCHROETER (nee Schnarr), Erika. 7/8/1930 -29/5/2023. Passed away peacefully at Latrobe Regional Hospital Traralgon. Aged 92 years Loved and Loving wife of George (dec.). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Norbert and Rae.

VOGT (nee Seidel), Maria Erika. Passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, 30 May 2023. Aged 94 years Dearly loved wife of Eugen Vogt (dec.). Loved and adored mother of Peter, Mark and Shane. Respected and loved mother-in-law of Annette and Jodie. Loved nan of Ashley, Jy and Corina, Brad, Brianna, Jacqui and Harrison. Precious great nan of Jax, Oscar, Madelyn, Anna and Hunter. Awonderful person, so loving and kind, What beautiful memories you've left behind.

WIRKEN (Lees), Christine Joy (Chris). Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at Latrobe Regional Hospital on 1June 2023.

Aged 68 years Loved and loving wife of Gerry for 48 years. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Owen, Warren and Tanya and their families. Adored nan to her grandchildren Makayla, Reagan and Zarnie.

WIRKEN, Christine. 3/4/1955 -1/6/2023. Loved and remembered always. Forever in our hearts. Peter, Karen, Olivia, Dylan, Evie, Harvey, Jed, Bram, Tahlia and Brooklyn.

LYKO hydraulic post ram, 3augers, V.G.C., $9000. Massey Ferguson 35X, reco. engine, new clutch and pressure plate, v.g.o., $6000. Ph 5134 3462.

4WD •

2009 Toyota Hilux 4x4, diesel, twin cab, manual, has Red Arc, snorkel and bullbar, serv. hist., 4mths reg., XMQ-584 $24,000 o.n.o. Ph 0428 144 389.

WHEN YOU GO LOCAL, YOU GROW LOCAL

Help support local business while we service, build and repair in our local communities

BUNN, Ronald. Ron was atreasured friend for 60 years to Joyce, Alan (dec.), Scott and family. Alife has ended but the loving memory of that precious life will remain forever in our hearts and minds. Sincere sympathy to Faye, Kaye, Lynne and Kym and families.

CONWAY (neeTaylor), Beverley Ann 'Bev'. Passed away peacefully on Thursday, 1June 2023. Aged 81 years Loved and loving wife of Ron (dec.).

Loved mother and mother-in-lawofJim, Geoff and Adrienne Steven and Tracey and Ronnie and Seona. Loved Nanna Bev to Jayde, Paige, Kyle, April, Robert, Ben, Jesse, Ryan, Max and Pip. Much loved Great Nanna Bev to Kai, Rhys and Dottie.

You worked so hard for those you loved.Your world was Dad and your boys. You had aspecial relationship with all your grandchildren and great grandchildren. You always wanted to be by Dad'sside and now you are back with him againwe will all miss you Mum/ Nanna.

GAJDOS, Rumpung. Passed away at Latrobe Regional Hospital Saturday 27 May 2023. Aged 72 years Loved and loving wife of Raymond (dec.). Loved and cherished mother of Danny and Malee. Our words are few, our thoughts are deep, Wonderful memories, are ours to keep.

GRAY (nee Turner), Kathleen Mary. 16/6/1934 -30/5/2023. Passed away peacefully at Heritage Manor Aged Care Morwell on Tuesday, 30 May 2023. In her 89th year

Dearly loved wife of Jim (dec.). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Julie and Danny and John (dec.), Kerri-anne and David, Debbieand Richard, Jo-anne and Peter.

Adored nan, nanny pop and great nan to Hollie and Michael, Gemma, Carter, and Boston; Courtney and Dan, Tarlee and Rhys, Zachary and Halee, Annie, Abbie, Evie, Fletcher, and Beau; Brock and Emma, Corey and Angie, Charlotte, Stella-Rose, Seth, Grayson, and Aeddan; Matthew and Rosie, Nicholas, Patrick, Tamara, Logan, Scarlett, Portia, Mason, Laila, Aurora and Aarianna.

GRAY, Kath. 30/5/2023. Long time friend of the Whittaker family. Will be sadly missed by us all. Condolences to all the family.

Rest in peace dear friend

Dearly loved and cherished Oma of Dean and Maggie and Hollie and Dean. Adored special Oma of Riley, Liam, Peyton, Lexi and Ethan.

You are loved, You are missed, You are remembered PRIVATE FAMILY FUNERAL

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

SIEKMAN (nee Beecroft), Mary Margaret. Passed 24/5/2023. Aged 87. Dearly loved younger sister of Eileen and Alan (dec.) Issell. Dear aunty to Victor, Robert, Karen, Bruce, Glenda, Maree, Donna and Joseph and their families. God Bless -R.I.P

WIRKEN, Christine. 3/4/1955 -1/6/2023. Awonderful sister. An aunt who would do anything for us. These memories the family have. Laughter, your smile, afunny sense of humour. The visits and card games. Thank you for being you LoveLyn, Meredith, Chantal, Elliot and Wesley.

WIRKEN, Christine.

Thank you for the years we shared and your special laugh. Your caring nature will be remembered by all whose lives you have touched.Muchloved sister-in- law of John and Chris. Aunty to Alyssia, Andrew, David and Michelle, Jeffreyand Terryn, and families.

WIRKEN, Christine. 3/4/1955 -1/6/2023. Christine, our years together are ones we will always treasure. You will always be in our hearts. We had alot of wonderful times together. Wendy, Tom, Darren, Craig and families.

WIRKEN, Christine. 1/6/2023. Lots of fun times shared, will cherish these memories forever.

SKINNER, Robert (Bob).

The Chairman, Board of Directors, Members and Staff of the Morwell Bowling Club are deeply saddened by the passing of Bob. Bob served as amember of the Morwell Bowling Club board of directors until his passing. We are forever grateful for his invaluable contribution as aboard member, member and bowler of the Club.

We express our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones at this sad time. He will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

At peace

Deepest condolences to Gerry and family. Mary and Peter Ambler and family.

CONWAY. The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mrs Beverley "Bev" Conway will be held at, Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy, Traralgon on FRIDAY (9 June 2023) commencing at 11am. Bev's service will be livestreamed. To view the livestream visit our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

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FRESCURA.

The Funeral Service and Prayers for Giovanni Frescura (John) will be held at St Michael's Catholic Church, Church Street, Traralgon WEDNESDAY (14 June 2023) at 1.30pm. The Service for Giovanni will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on live streaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

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GAJDOS. AService to Celebrate the life of Mrs Rumpung Gajdos will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy, Traralgon on THURSDAY (8 June 2023) commencing at 10.30am.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

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GRAY.

The Funeral Service for Mrs Kathleen Gray will be held at St Kieran's Catholic Church, Lloyd Street Moe WEDNESDAY (7 June 2023) commencing at 1pm. The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the Service for the Moe Cemetery. Kathleen's Service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on live streaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111

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HARDY. The Funeral Service for Mr William Hardy of Paynesville will be held at the Peter Murray Funerals Chapel, Bairnsdale on WEDNESDAY (7 June 2023) at 11.30am.

For livestream details please see our website.

Peter Murray Funerals East Gippsland 5152 4596

MONTELEONE.

Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mr Salvatore (Sam) Monteleone will be held at St Kieran's Catholic Church, Lloyd Streets, Moe on THURSDAY (8 June 2023) commencing at 10.30am.

The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the Mass for the Moe Cemetery.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111

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ROBERTSON, George

Struan (Reverend).

AService of Celebration will be held at Western Port Christian Family Church, 99 The Crescent, Tyabb, on TUESDAY (13 June 2023) 11.30am. Service will be livestreamed via Western Port Christian FamilyYouTube Private Cremation

VOGT. Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Maria Erika Vogt will be held at St Michael's Catholic Church, Traralgon on WEDNESDAY (7 June 2023) commencing at 1.30pm.

At the conclusion of Mass the family will leave for a private burial. Maria's Service will be livestreamed. To view the livestream visit our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

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WIRKEN. Family and friends are warmly invited to the Funeral Service for Christine Wirken. To be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437A Princes Dve Morwell on TUESDAY (13 June 2023) at 1.30pm. APrivate Cremation will be held.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

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GUZZARDI, John. 8/5/1927 -7/6/2010. Loved forever Never forgotten Love Marjorie and family.

More than local Funeral Directors

Latrobe Valley Funeral Services has been helping the local community for more than 70 years

Our Chapels are fittedwiththe latest visual technology including the option to livestream a Funeral from any location. Alarge function room is available adjacent to each chapel to provide catering and refreshment facilities.

Meteor makes amark

BASKETBALL

By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC

MOE Basketball’s very ownMaddie Edebohls recently wonthe Basketball Victoria’s 2023 Volunteer Week 2023 Competition. For those of you who might have crossed paths with Edebohls, you would have been well aware of her dedication to coaching, her love of basketball and her kind andcaring nature that has ultimately wonher the Basketball Victoria’s Volunteer’s Week competition.

TakingtoFacebook to announce the winner, Basketball Victoria said, “Maddie gives so much of her time to coach, train and develop athletes in the junior program at Basketball Moe Inc, all while taking on her teaching studies. All the kids she coaches love her -she’s invested in them just as much as they are in her.”

Basketball Moe Inc. also took to Facebook to congratulate Edebohls on the win, saying, “Maddie’s dedication to her coaching roles is next to none.”

HANSFORD, Erin Elizabeth. 7/7/1986 -6/6/2007. Sixteen yearshave passed. We feel your presence every day. In our thoughts always Forever in our hearts Love Mum, Claire and Peter XXX.

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Edebohls must have one of the most jam-packed schedules, coachingboth Under 12’s and 14’s girl’s domestic teams and two under-12’sgirl’s squad teams. The assistant coach to both Under 16’s and Under 18’s girl’s squad teams and head coach of the Gippsland United’s Under 16’s two’s while also playingand coaching netball herself, all while still studying and working full time as aprimary school teacher.

BasketballMoe said, “Maddie Always volunteers her time, even if it’s her last 10 minutes free for the day.”

“Thank you for being an amazing role model to so many –Basketball Moe wouldn’t be the same without you,” they added.

MaddieEdebohlswas surprised to have even beennominatedfor the BasketballVictoria Competition.

“I was super shocked Ihad no idea that Iwould be nominatedIhad no ideathatitwas athing thatBasketballVictoria where evendoing. Isaw through afew different channelsthat it was Volunteer Week, but Inever really thought anything of it,” Edebohls said.

“Veryshocked, very surprised, but Ifeel very humble about it,” she added.

Thanks to Basketball Victoria partners Belgravia Apparel- Sportsand New Balance, Maddiehas won $300 worth of vouchers for the New Balance online store.

Whenasked how she’ll spend her prize, Edebohls said, “Well, I’ve been actuallybeen putting money away for apair of shoes that Iwant, but Idon’t really need, but I’ll be able to get them for free now.”

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“It means alot to me because it’s not often that Istopand think about being recognised as a volunteer because Ilove coaching; I’ve coached for alot of years; it is alot of work, time and travel. I travel alot for basketball, and to be recognised as avolunteer at this level, it’s really nice.”

Edebohls is bonkers about basketball but loves the game for the many opportunities and

friendships it’s given her throughout her life.

“It’s just beensomething that’salwaysbeen a part of my life. The reason Icoach is to give back to the club that has given me so much,” she said.

“Mymemories fromplaying squadatMoe are some of my favourite childhood memories, and Ijust wanted to givethatopportunity,tocreate those memories in other kids as well.”

National Volunteer Week 2023isa celebrationof our power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian community. The week-longeventfromMay 15 to 21 recognised the vitalsupport our country’s millions of volunteers provide to their communities and encourages people to consider volunteering. Many have flocked to Facebook to congratulate Edebohls, showcasing how much of an effect her hard work and dedication have on others and the community.

HavingcoachedMoe Meteors teams to championships, Edebohls has tasted success, but that’s not why she does it; she does it for the love of growing the game for future generations.

“The most important thing is building relationships with your athletes and making surethat even in really serious times, you’re still making it fun, especially in juniors,” Edebohls said.

Though she was personally recognised for her voluntary work, Edhebohls extended her gratitude to all other volunteers out there.

“Because without volunteers, we wouldn’t have support systemsinour clubs,particularly in community sports which is huge in Gippsland; volunteers create our committees, they’re the usual onesthat organise thefundraisersand draws, and they make sure everyone has afixture, they’re the backbone of all sporting clubs,” she said.

Marist basketball carnival

BASKETBALL

Birthday Memoriam •

www.harwoodfunerals.com.au

For24/7support 0405 669 532

LAVALLA’S two Marist basketball teams recently spent aweek in Adelaideparticipatingatthe 31st Marist BasketballCarnivalagainst 27 teamsfrom around the country.

Having been dormant for the past three years, the carnival was back on the calendar and all but two of Lavalla’s student athletes were set to attend the carnival for the very first time.

host school, Adelaide’s Sacred Heart College, with the girls confident of acompetitive showing.

The Lavalla girls did more than be competitive and quickly established an early buffer that they eventually maintained throughout the contest.

PACUNSKIS, Peter.

Happy Birthday Pooch

You will never be forgotten as long as Ilive. Icarry you with me, safely tucked in my heart. Forever loved and missed. Mum.

PACUNSKIS, Peter. 10/6/1955.

Celebrating your birthday without you is the hardest thing to do but we will raise aglass in memory of how precious you are to us.

Forever in our hearts Inta and family.

Bereavement Thanks •

COOPER, Jim. Nancy and family would like to thank all who attended Jim's Funeral, for all the flowers, phone calls and cards.

Please accept this as our personal thanks.

Hoonnoouurryyoouurrlloovveed d o onneessaannd d s shhaarreetthheeiirrssttoorry y

When you lose someone close to you, it can be hardto put your thoughts and feelings into words

Apersonalmessage in the Latrobe ValleyExpress can say so much

Forfriendly advice on how to placeyourmessage contact

TheClassified Department 5135 4455

46 —The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 7June, 2023

THE girls commenced their campaign with a strong win over Perth’s Newman College, 45-17, before securing asolid victory against Bendigo’s Marist College, 62-38.

Micaiah Judilla was astandout against Bendigo with 21 points, while Taylah Murtagh (13 points), IndideDios (11points)and Grace Van Tilburg(10 points) provided great offensive support.

It was asluggish start against Beenleigh’s Trinity College, as the girlswereupagainstaveryphysical team, providing ahard fought contest.

Behind Murtagh’s 18 points, Lavalla were able to establish adouble-figure advantage and record agood win against some tough opposition.

Van Tilburg, with 10 points, was the only other player to reach double-digit scoring figures.

The girlsbrushed pastNoarlunga Downs’ Cardijn Collegeinthe quarter finals with little trouble, to set up asemi-final showdown with their local nemesis Catholic College Sale.

Asolid 7-0 bursttocommence the semi-final encounter against CC Sale was the ideal start, knowing that CC Sale were always going to be a tough challenge.

For three quarters, Lavalla were able to maintain asmall cushion before CC Sale challenged strongly in the fourth quarter.

Murtaghand VanTilburg did enough to counter the challenge, as Lavallaprevailedina54-51 victory.

This set up aChampionship Final against the

Despite Adelaide closing the margin to within six points early in the final quarter, Lavalla steadied under the leadership of Murtagh, who produced agame-high 20 points, to claim the 2023 Marist title, andLavalla’s 15th title.

THE Lavallaboysproduced awin in their opening contest on day one against Kogarah’s Marist College, 47-29, before encountering atough match up againstthe highly-fancied Marist Collegefrom Bulleen, where they eventually succumbed to a 34-50 loss.

Day two saw the boys endure aheavy loss to Noarlunga Downs’ Cardijn College losing 45-66.

Despiteleading Bendigo’s Marist College by fivepointswith lessthan two minutes remaining, Lavallawere unable to capitalise on their efforts and were fortunate to secure a38-38 draw in their final pool game.

They followed this performance with another competitive 57-70 defeat over Burnie’s Marist Regional College in the ‘Plate Quarter Final’.

The boys then met local rivals, Catholic College Sale, in apositional playoff game, and fell short in a42-45 defeat.

The boys would eventually play off for 15th /16th position and they prevailed with acomprehensive 64-26 victory against Noosaville’s St. Teresa’s Catholic College.

PRESENTATIONS were made afterthe boysfinal, where Murtagh andVan Tilburg gained selection to the Marist 10 All-Star team, and Karen Joyce received All-Star Coach of the carnival.

HASTIE General Manager ALLAN WORTHY Funeral Consultant

MYRA KRAFFT Funeral Consultant STEVE EVANS Funeral Consultant

Inspire: Maddie Edebohls coaches teamsofall different agesand levels Photograph supplied

Dodgers go downinbaseball epic

BASEBALL LVBA

LATROBE Valley Baseball Association action on Sunday saw Moe/Newborough travel to Sale for Round 8.

The Rangers were victorious in the close fought match in AGrade, taking the win 8-7.

It remained tight up until the bottom of the ninth innings, where Kevin Arbuthnotsingled score one runand thegamefor Sale.

Sale rangers totalled 10 hits in the game with Will Hector, Joel Hector and Brett McMaster collecting multiple hits.

Jason Smith led the Dodgers in hits with two from four at bats.

The Dodgers had better luck in BGrade,winning 20-2.

The Rangers struggled to put runs on the board and struggled defensively with 10 errorsinthe field

Trent Jobpitched for the Dodgers overfour innings. He allowed only two runsonfive hits with six strikeouts.

In CGrade,the Dodgers were too strong for the Rangers, winning 17-2.

The highlight for Sale was ahome run for Andrew Pembrey in the first innings.

The Dodgers racked up 13 hits, with Cody Zomer, GarryMitchell, Jesse Wilson and CallumBuckland managing multiple hits.

Chris Forrester led Moe/Newborough withstolen bases with atotal of three.

Traralgon RedsoxA Grade tookonChurchill Braves at Churchill.

The Redsox won 9-1.

John Kus was on the hill for the Redsox, allowing zero runs and two hits over three innings with

three strikeouts taking place with ball in hand.

Jarrod Thomas lead off on the hill for the Braves, allowing seven runs on five hits with two strikeouts.

Richards Humpreys came in as relief, throwing almost five innings.

The Redsox had atotal of nine stolen bases and seven hits for the game.

Churchill was victorious over Morwell Cougars in BGrade 10-4.

Gregg Duncan led Braves with three hits in three at bats. Tristan White led Morwell in stolen bases with four.

CGrade sawMorwell snatch alatevictory from the Braves thanks to acatch by Kevin White.

Churchill had 14 hits for the day and Morwell 13.

Brad Jones was on the moundfor Churchill with six strikeouts. Kenny Dron pitched for the Cougars, with 11 strikeouts for the game THE previous week saw Traralgon Redsox at home to Moe/Newborough Dodgers.

The Redsox lost the lead late in the AGrade game, going down 6-4. Trent Jobs toed the rubber for the Dodgers, Lastingseven innings and allowingseven hits with two strikeouts

BradAdams started on the hillfor Redsoxfor six innings, allowing three hits with four strikeouts.

John Kus mad Luke Hornstra both came in as relief pitching two innings apiece.

Will Brooker hit Traralgon’s only home run for the game. Jason Smith lead theDodgers in hits with four hits in six at bats.

Redsox tookthe win in the BGrade game against the Dodgers with an 11-3 result.

Redsox racked up 12 hits. Mitch McGrathwas on the mound for the Dodgers. McGrath allowed four hits and five runs over three and two-thirds innings, striking out seven.

Mat Luke threw one and two-thirds innings in relief

In CGrade,anearly lead by the Redsox saw a 12-7 victory against the Dodgers.

Jesse Wilson was on the pitcher’s mound for the Dodgers.

The hurler lastedtwo and athird innings, allowing five hits and six runs while striking out six.

Churchill Braves and Sale Rangersalsofaced off in an AGrade game.

Churchill fell behind early and sustained aloss.

The Rangers racked up 10 hitsthrough the game.

Joel Hector went three for three at the plate to lead Sale in hits.Healsotoed the rubber and lasted six innings allowing only two hits over the six innings with six strikeouts. Agreat wayto spend your 21st birthday.

Gary Larkin and Tim Bellerby where Churchill’s only hitters for the day.

Sale BGrade was victorious in a12-6match against Morwell Cougars.

The Cougars struggled to contain Sale’s offense, giving up 12 runs.

In CGrade,the Rangers and Cougars ended in ahigh-scoring 17-17 tie.

The Cougars managed seven runs in the second innings for atotal of 14 hits for the game.

Tristan White ledthe Cougars in stolen bases with three of the Cougars’ 11 stolen bases.

Kaden Hicks of Sale also stole bases well with three.

Sale managed 18 hits in the game with Kaden Hicks and Rob McKerlie leadingthe way with four each.

Gippsland United riding high

BASKETBALL GIPPSLAND UNITED

BY TOM HAYES

GIPPSLAND United went two fromtwo at the weekend, as the Women’s side continue to dominate Division 2, and the Men’s side get back on the winner’s list.

TWELVE straight, is how good the women are travelling in 2023.

At the weekend, Gippsland United hosted the RMIT Redbacks at the Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium (GRISS).

It was ademolition job from the get-go.

Gippsland United held the Redbacks to just 12 points throughout the first half, meanwhile, they piled on 59 points, to hold a47-point lead at the main break. The Redbacks improvedinthe second half, but the margin continued to rise.

Gippsland United added 14 more to the margin in the third term,followedby11more in the final quartertocomplete the 72-point hammering, 112-40.

The women spread out the scoring relatively evenly, as Alahna Arnason top-scored with 16 points, she was one of seven players to score double-digits.

Chloe Hoggand MaKenzie Miller claimed double-doubles, respectively adding 12 and 14 rebounds to their double-digit points tally.

Millerwas aprominent provider, with five assists on the evening.

Gippsland United are now three games clear on top of the ladder after 12 games, their100 percent win rate remains intact still.

The women could have another big weekend next weekend,whenthey face Collingwood, who sit in asimilar situation to the Redbacks.

ALSO against the RMIT Redbacks, the men took late control of atough battle, to edge their opponents at the GRISS.

The two sides were inseparable at every change except for the end, both sides scored 13 in the first term, 20 in the secondquarterand 21 in the third term, allowing the scores to be locked at 54 apiece with aquarter remaining.

Gippsland United managed to finallyoutscore their opponents in the first term, 25-20, to give them afive-point buffer at the game’s end, 79-74.

Ben Barlow stuffed the stat sheet, with 11 points, 12 rebounds, four assists and four steals.

Stephen O’Brien and JordanCanovan also managed double-doubles, with 14 points, 12 rebounds and 17 points, 11 rebounds respectively

The win was of hugeproportionfor the Gippsland side, defeating the Redbacks who were third on the ladder.

Gippsland Unitedremain in fourth, behind the Redbacks, but are now only one win away from potentially topping them.

Like the women, Collingwood is up next for them -and another big win is on the cards, as both sides travel to Collingwood College for the encounter.

Grade CWinner: Parsell, Jake (36) 35

PlaceGetters: Weir,Charles 34 c/b

Stansbury, Les 34 c/b

Meldrum, Greg 34 c/b

Hancock, Chris 34

Stephens,Peter 33 c/b

Wilkinson, Wally33

Johnson, Tony 33

Beath, Ken32c/b

Wilson, Graeme 32 c/b

Brien, Graeme 32 c/b

Great Score: Murray Donaldson (Birdie)

@8

76,6.P.Jordan76, 7. P. smart77, 8. P.

Boulding 77 C/B

N.T.P: 3rdM.Hutchinson, 5th C. warring, 12th G. BeyerPro-Pin, 14th J. Soppe

Target Hole: C. Hogbin, Putts: C. Thompson 26

Birdies: A. Auld 12th

StablefordTuesday30th May2023

Winner: A. West 20 34 pts

D.T.L: S. Turner 26 33pts

N.T.P: 3rdS.Caldwell, 5th A. West &S

Caldwell,12th A.West &S.Caldwell, 14th

C. Carter

MIRBOONORTH

Thursday1st June,Stableford.

Daywinner: RPentland (17) 33pts c/b

DTL: JMcFarlane 33, TWhitelaw32c/b

NTP: TWhitelaw4th &6th.

Birdies: 13th MPayne

Saturday3rd June Stroke.

AGrade: TWhitelaw, (8)72

BGrade: NBracecamp (19) 69

DTL: SMcKenzie 71, CMcKay,P Draper

73,P Woodall 74 c/b

NTP: TWhitelaw(4th, 13th &16th), G

Renwick6th

Birdies: 4th BBradshaw, 6th RScurlock.

Captains Trophyplayoff: MSnell w/o.J

Smeriglio def SWoodall19th. PDraper def

MPayne 3/2. NBaker def JRobbins 3/2

Next week: MSnell vJSmeriglio PDraper

vNBaker

MOE

Saturday, 27 May2023 MENS Stableford

Grade AWinner: Fife,Mark(5) 36

Grade BWinner: Donaldson, Murray (15)

36

Paul Spiteri(Birdie) @14

Andrew Pickard (Birdie) @14

Nearest to Pin: 4th KevinAyton

8th Murray Donaldson

14th AnthonyGauci

Sunday, 28 May2023 Stableford

Grade AWinner: Imer,Corey (24) 33

Wednesday, 31 May2023 WOMEN’S

STABLEFORD

Grade AWinner: Shaw,Karen (22) 36

Grade BWinner: Thompson,Pat (29) 33

Place Getters: Stanlake, Helen 34

Tate,Sandy 32

Nearest to Pin: 4th Marj Lang

14th HelenStanlake Target Hole: Helen Stanlake

Thursday, 01 June 2023 OPEN Medley

Stableford

Grade AWinner: Langmaid,Brett (12) 35

Grade BWinner: White, Rodney(16)35

Grade CWinner: Keenan, Peter(17 33 c/b

Place Getters: Donaldson, Murray 34 c/b

Fife,Mark34c/b

Panozzo, Gavan34

Wilson, Graeme 33 c/b

Imer,Corey 33 c/b

Savige,Bruce 33

Backman, Phil 33

Stansbury, Les 32 c/b

Donnison, Terry32c/b

King,Rob 32 c/b

Boyce, John 32 c/b

Great Score

Steven Hibbs (Birdie) @4

KenBarnes (Birdie) @14

Eric Beveridge (Birdie) @8

Nearest to Pin

4th Tony Johnson

8th Phil Backman

14th Graeme Brien

Saturday, 03 June 2023 MEN’S Stroke-

Monthly Medal

Grade AWinner: Johnson, Tony (2)

70 -Medal &Gross Winner

Grade BWinner: Dunstan, Craig (16) 75 c/b

Place Getters: Veenman, Laurie 72 Hibbs,Steven73 Skicko,Nick74

Howard,Bernard75c/b

Harber,John 75 c/b

Spiteri, Paul 75 c/b

Stanlake, Peter75

Great Score: NickSkicko birdie @14

Andrew Pickard birdie @4

Craig Dunstan birdie @14

MarkFifebirdie @8

Nearest to Pin: 4th Tony Johnson

8th Nicholas Taylor

14th NickSkicko

MysterySixes PrizeWinner: Peter Stanlake

MORWELL

Morwell Golf Club Women 31st May2023

Stableford

Winner: JWhite34pts

NTP: 2nd SPearson 11th SPearson 15th

SPearson

Birdies: SPearson

TRAFALGAR

Results forWednesday31st May

Women’sresults Stroke/Monthly Medal

Medal Winner: Aija Owen (27) with 72 nettc/b

Runner Up: JennyEvison (24) with 72 nett

ScratchWinner: KarenMacGregor (19) with 94

Putting: KarenMacGregor with 29 putts

Down The Line: Chris Payne with 73 nett, BevKeilywith76nettand Anne Outhred with 77 nett

NTP –5th Lorna Risol

9-Hole Winners: Sue Tabuteau (31) with 38 nettc/b

9-Hole Runner-Up: Sue Williams (33) with 38 nett

Gobblers: PatHarris on the 1st, Karen

MacGregor on the 16th and BevKeilyon the 17th

TuesdayMay 30 Comp: Stableford. No. of players

Winner: Bronwyn Wallace 19

Runner up: Tony Shearer 18 c/b

DTL: GDoolan 18 c/b,PO’Connell 18,P

Griffin17c/b,SLawrence 17 c/b

NTP: 5th SGould

Bradmans: Jim Connan 11

ThursdayJune 1, 2023 Comp: Stroke

Monthly Medal Players:53

WOMENS

Winner: BevKeily34

Runner up: Anne Outhred 36 c/b

ScratchWinner: LornaRisol 49

DTL: Nola Fordham 38, Aija Owen 38, KarenMacGregor 39

NTP: 13th Christine Payne

Bradmans: Cheryl Deppeler

MENS

Winner: RonPyke32 c/b

Runner up: Ivan Grant 32 c/b

ScratchWinner: RayWilliams 42 c/b

DTL: Frank Kiss 32 c/b,MickBennett33, KeithOwen33, Ian Outhred 33, Toby Davie

33, SteveGould 34, SteveLawrence 34

NTP: 13th Gavin Patchett

Par3 event: Hank Fiddelaers

Bradmans: Charlie Hooker c/b

Friday, June 2nd 2023, Open Men’s&

Ladies Stableford

AGrade Winner: Chris Hogbin 35 pts

BGrade Winner: John Butler 35 pts

DTL’s: GarryJansen 34, MarkHiriart33, Tony Shearer 33, Alan Manely33, Dane Elwood33, BarryDwyer 33, Russell Dent

33

Birdies: 2nd: BarryDwyer,NickRowe5th: John Butler,TonyBickley11th: RonDavey

13th: Shane Dwyer 15th:Chris Hogbin

Hole in One: 5th: Shane Dwyer

Eagle: 14th:Alan Manley

Saturday, June 3rd2023, Monthly Medal

Stroke

Medal &A Grade Winner: GarryJansen

69 nett

BGrade Winer: Darryl Blackshaw74nett

ScratchWinner: Nic Blake75nett

DTL’s: Zavier O’Reilly70, Bill Williams

KenStreet72, RayWilliams73, MarkHiriart

TuesdayStableford30/05/2023 Field: 94

Grades:

A: Graham Charlton 38 pts

B: Shaun Guttridge 35 pts

C: Neil Donoghue 34 pts

NTP5th: David Wight NTP8th: Joel Poole NTP10th: Raymond Smith

NTP15th: Chris Jones RunDowns: 1. Mitchell Jones 37pts,2 Daniel Lyons 36pts,3.John Simic 36pts, 4David Cook 35pts,5.RodneyWare 35pts,6.Norman Wells 34pts,7.Gordon Bland 34pts,8.Phillip Denhouting 34pts, 9. Maurice Papettas34pts,10Raymond Smith34pts Stroke-Played: 03/06/2023 Field: 127

Best Gross: A01639 RodneyWare69

Grades:

A: Ryan Wilson 68 nett

B: Craig Radford70nett

C: Samuel Baker 70 nett

D: ScottTePaa 67 nett Hole in 1: Ross Chapman 15 th hole

NTP 5th: Hans Mayer, NTP 8th: Patrick Bezzina NTP 10th:Douglas Anderson NTP

Carter 92-20=72 net

DTL: B. Brown83net, L. McAlister 84net, S. Riches 84net.

Count Putts: L. Carter 27putts

Close call: Traralgon’s Josh Galea runs to firstwith Moe/Newborough’s Mitch McGrath makingthe out in recent Latrobe Valley Baseball Association action. Photograph AmyForrester

Cousins show how it’s done Local derby ends goalless

SOCCER LVSL

BY JOHN CARDONA

THE local derby betweenMoe United and Newborough/Yallourn United ended in anil-all draw.

The Combine took to Olympic Park on Sunday, for Round 11 action in front of alarge crowd.

Moe United controlled the most part of possession in the first 25 minutes, but failed to convert anyoftheir clear-cut chances.

RileyWinkleman had agreat opportunity after five minutes of play for the Red Devils when he latched onto Brendan Ruddell’swell-flighted corner, only to see his headed attempt go inches wide of the far post.

Minutes later,ConnorO’Hanloncreated an opportunity after apenetrating run down the rightsaw hiscross split the Newborough/ Yallourn defence, only to seebothWinkleman and Matt Shearing’s desperate lunges fail to connect to the ball.

Moe’s strong defensive play led by Tanner Pyle, Nick Fogarty, Chad Shelley and Ruddell repelled any of Newborough/Yallourn’s attacking attempts, giving Moe veteran keeper Peter Albanese very little to do.

At the 30-minute mark, Oscar Sceney thought he had broken the deadlockwhen his perfectly judged headerpicked out the top corner at thebackpost, but great anticipation fromNewborough/Yallourn’s keeper madea tremendous save.

Connor Dastey made agreat rundown the right and foundanunmarked Toley Winkleman for Moe, but he sprayed his headedattempt wide of the target.

The second halfsaw amore scrappy affair, withafew yellow cardshanded out to players on both sides.

Very few chances were created, although Sceney had ashot on the turn that went narrowly over the crossbar.

Fairbrother for the Combine had the best chance, only to see his well hit drive go narrowly wide.

Moe’s best opportunity came after 82 minutes when Riley Winkleman, through aperfect pass for O’Hanlon, was repelled by the keeper.

In the final few minutes, the Combine thought they had snatched the winneragainst the run of play,only to see the linesman’s flagupfor an offside infringement.

Best for Moe was Pyle,Sceney andShelley

IN the reserves, the Combine was too strong, winning2-0.

The women’s game saw the visitors win an entertaining encounter 4-2. Bestfor Moe was Paris Troughton, Taylah Armistead and Miley Cooper.

In the women’s Under 18 squad for the junior country championships, Moe’s OpalEastand 13-year-old wonder twins Mileyand Summer Cooper were selected.

Traralgon too strong on tables

TABLE TENNIS

By KATRINA BRANDON

TRARALGON Table Tennis Association played Bairnsdale Table Tennis in an inter-association competition recently, in readinessfor Country Week this week.

The annual event came with seven pennant teams and 10 Keenager teams from Bairnsdale, which werenot quite strong enough to win against Traralgon’s teams.

Traralgon Keenagers won 18-7 and the final tally for the association was 73 sets to Bairnsdale’s 29 sets.

Overall, bothassociations joined in witha happyatmosphereand guaranteedsmile during the day, with abonus of laughter in the mix.

Country Week is an exciting week for Traralgon as it is the first time in acycle of eight years that they will be hosting the competition, with 33 players attending from the Traralgon club.

It’s anticipated that around 300 players will be attending from 17 Victorian Country Associations, with Gippsland teams making around 20 per cent of the field.

The event has been organised by the Table Tennis Association of Victoria and Country week is set for the three days during the King’s Birthday Weekend.

“This year, Traralgon has got more players thanother years.” Keenagers organiserDon Milner said.

“Certainly anew thing, never has it been here in Traralgonbefore. This years teamsare looking forwards to it.”

BOCCE

By LIAM DURKIN

NOT bad for little old Morwell.

Young gun bocceplayers Amelia Alesi and Kayla Dukes recently returned home with aswag of awards from the Australian Junior Bocce Open.

Thecousins travelled to Queensland to compete in the two-day tournamentaspartofthe Victorian team.

Of the fiveplayers that represented the state, three were from Morwell.

Amelia and Kayla were joined by Tommy Campbell(currently based outside the area) at the junior open. Playerstookpartinvarious forms of traditional bocce, includingrapid and precision throwing.

For many,they had to learn on the spot or adapt quickly to different formats.

Kaylawon the Under 18 double rapidthrow event, while Amelia won the Under 15 version.

The performances were especially noteworthy considering Kayla was competing two years above her age group, whileAmeliahas beenplayingbocce for less than ayear.

Having taken to bocce like aduck to water, the 14-year-oldwas recognised for her efforts by being awarded Under 15s best-and-fairest at the national junior open.

Amelia said it was agreat thrill, and an equally great surprise to win the best and fairest.

Amelia got into the sport at the encouragement of her cousin, and nonna (Italian for grandmother)

Kayla’s win continued her meteoric rise in the sport, adding to her Under 15 singles title from last year.

Having now competed in three states along the east coast of Australia, Kaylaisbecoming familiar with the extended bocce family.

As well as herown performance at thejunior open, Kayla said the friendships she has made through bocce were what stood out.

“It was really good (the junior open), good to see everyone again as well,” she said.

“I like doing singles, but this year Igot to do more

throwing and Ienjoyed that more.

“Singles was pretty good, bit of toughcompetition but Ithink Idid pretty well for Under 18s, doubles with Amelia we did pretty well, came third, and then precision, we never really trained for that so pretty proud of how we did for that.”

Kaylasaidshe enjoyed learning new versions of thesport, and wished to thank those at her home club for their support.

“(We learnt) by watching everyone else, seeing

what to do, we’d practised throwing before but never this particular event, so thankful for Frank and Sally (Fava) for teaching us how to throw

“People usuallythink of it as like bowling a(lawn) bowl, they don’t really know that you can ‘throw’ it as well.”

Kayla and Amelia are set to travel to Sydney this month in the hope of gainingselection for the junior international in Monaco.

Adding to historyatlocal marathon

ATHLETICS TRARALGON MARATHON

BY TOM HAYES

HUNDREDS of people gathered at De Grandi’s Winery in Traralgon for the 56th annual Traralgon Marathon &Running Festival.

Taking place on achillymorning last Sunday, runners made their way to the winery to get ready for what was ahead of them.

Three events would take place; the marathon (42.2 kilometres), half marathon (21.1km) and the 10km event.

The Traralgon Marathon is known as the longestrunning marathon event in Australia, as they celebrate the 56th running, beginning in 1967.

“The club members should be justifiably proud of running atop line event, which has the distinction of being the longest-running marathonevent in Australia,” Traralgon Harriers president and race director Phill Mayer said.

At 8am, the marathon was underway, which saw runners on the course for over two and ahalf hours, and up to over five hours.

An hour later, the half marathon got underway at 9am, and at 10am as the fog began to disperse, the 10km run began.

Waiting at the top of the hill at De Grandi’s Winery,itwasn’t long until people began to file through and over the finish line.

As they crossed thefinish linetheywere presented with acompletion medal, Gatorade and a much-needed water.

Icouldn’t imagine running awhole 42 or so kilometres, only for the finish line to be at the top of ahill, but everyone seemed to crack on and was determined to finish.

Soon enough acrowd was forming, just as the firstmarathonrunners were expected to come through.

At around 10.40am,people began to notice a marathonrunner making his way to the finish line, it was Hamish Cropper, representing the Melbourne Midday Milers.

After making it up the hill, he confirmed his time of 2:42.19, finishing awhole five minutes ahead of the next finisher, more than akilometre down the road.

His pace actuallyrose throughoutthe marathon, beginning at 3:53per kilometre for the first 15 kilometres,before shiftingto3:46 per kilometre at theend of the marathon.

Cropper was at the front of the pack for most of the marathon, he was the fourth person to cross the 15-kilometre mark, but then the first to cross the 31.55km mark and of course, the finish line.

Mayer was impressed with the turnout.

“The event was cappedat300 (people), 100 in each event, we actually had 340,” he said.

“It was afantastic day. All the volunteers from Traralgon Harriers, Neighbourhood Watch, Rotary

Club Morwell, Traralgon West Scouts and our drink stations were so amazing and supportive.

“The Gippsland PlainsRailTrailcommittee had put so muchworktomakethe trail perfect for running alarge event like this.”

Mayerwas happytohear of the happy stories that came from the event.

“The feedbackfrom the runners across the events was nothing but positive.There are so manystories of triumph when peoplerun amarathon or half marathon,”hesaid

“Everyone has found their own way of getting across the finish line, but just getting to the start is amassive achievement.”

Some familiar faces were out an about throughout the day, either on the track or in the crowd.

“We’re exceptionally luckytobeable to have this event in our region,and it’s so good for the

community,” Mayer said.

“De Grandi’s (Winery) is an amazing venue, we had Federal MP Darren Chester run the half (marathon), Deputy Mayor Dan Clancey also ran the half (marathon) Mayor Kellie O’Callaghan was at thefinish cheering people on,there was areal buzz.”

The Traralgon Harriers are always looking for new members and it is more than just running.

“The Traralgon Harriers is agenuinely unique and welcoming club, it’snot justabout the best and most elite athletes,” Mayer said.

“We’re all about creating asupportive environment for social and recreational runners, and providing asocial connection, and that was on display as well.”

The full results can be found at my.raceresult.com/230933/results

Together: Winnersand sponsorsatthe presentation.

Photograph supplied

Trappings of success: Cousins Amelia Alesi andKayla Dukeswiththeir medals from the AustralianJunior Bocce Open. Thegirls received great supportfromcoach Frank Fava from Italian AustralianClub, Morwell. Photograph Liam Durkin

Fortuna leapsinto LVSL top spot

BY LAURIE WILLIAMS

AFTER Round 11, there were some big changes to the ladder, following the completion of the first half of the season.

Fortuna60’ jumped from third to top position after their 4-0 demolition of Falcons 2000, Morwell Pegasus climbed from fourth to third after disposing of Tyers Lightning 7-0, Moe United stayed in second after being held to a0-0 draw and Falcons tumbled from top to fourth, such is the closeness of the competition.

 FALCONS 0DEF BY FORTUNA 4

FALCONSlosttop spot on the ladder and had to handover the Inter-Australian Trophy after going down 4-0 to neighbours Fortuna in the Saturday night blockbuster.

Fortunatook advantage early with pin-point passing which them able to control the ball.

Falcons suffered fromfrequent turn-overs which allowed the Lions to capitalise on the errors made by Falcons.

Early returns saw Fortuna apply pressure with goals coming from Matt Janson and Hayden Tanti as the Lions wrapped up the first half with a2-0 lead.

Falcons looked better in the second half with Josh Patterson, Tom D’Alia and Kevin Carcellar all providing drive, as they tried to get on the scoreboard.

Tall Alex Bowman was the big stumbling block for Fortuna, as he constantly headed the ball from defenceeach time Falcons went forward.

Fortuna goal keeper Con Mavrofridis had very little to do as many of the attacks failed to reach him.

Eight minutes into the second half, Fortuna went three-up after Hayden Tantilatchedonto the ball after it rebounded from the keeper for an easy tap in.

It was tough in the middle with many hard tackles

as both teams strived to gain the advantage.

Falconsmade adouble changeinthe 67th minute, in an effort to recharge their forward half.

Fortunawith their long kicking allowed forwards DJ Matar and Hayden Tanti the chance to add to the score-line but it was Ollie Spiteriwho was able to head home theirfourth goal after agoalpost rebound.

It was Fortuna’s first LVSL win over Falcons since 2014.

 OLYMPIANS 4DEF CHURCHILL 0 OLYMPIANS won their second match of the season withaclinical finishtobeat Churchill 4-0 in gusty conditions in Traralgon.

Apenalty to Anton Antonopoulosstarted proceedings for Olympians, as they stated to dominate the match, Churchill’s veteran Craig Cheney in goals was under pressure early as Olympians were constantly pushing forward.

Churchill couldn’t make any inroads as Olympians tightened up their defence and by half time the home side led 1-0.

Jayden Steele was having ablinder on the flank and he was rewarded with asuperb goal on the hour.

Churchill were competitive but couldn’t break through and when the match was almost finished, Anton Antonopoulos chippedinfor his second, and Ollie Saliba claimed Olympians’ fourth, four minutes into extra time to givethe home side a4-0 victory, their biggest win over the Rams since 2017  TYERS 0DEF BY PEGASUS 7

HAT-TRICKS to Kuku Mahmoud and Germaine Otieno -who nowgoestoequal leader with Fortuna’s Jordan Campbell on 13 goals -and a single to Manny Eliaser gave Pegasus an easy 7-0 win over Tyers, the Horsemen making short work against awilling Tyers side.

It was Pegasus’ biggest win over the Lightning and now it puts them in astrongposition in third to challenge Fortuna for the top position after the King’s Birthday holiday break.

No matches will be played this weekend due to King’s Birthday long weekend.

Promising results for local junior soccer stars

SOCCER GIPPSLAND UNITED

BY NERELLE FOSTER

 PRE-NPL U12S GUFC VS CASEY PANTHERS

IT wasnear perfect conditions for an away game at ProspectHillReserve, as Gippsland faced off againstCasey Panthers.

Gippsland were fast out of the blocks, dominating early possession and sending anumberofshots into thebox, keeping the Casey goalkeeper busy.

Sid Box drove the midfield forward, assisted by Blake Breheny, with Dino Grbic and Hudson Reiss combining well up front.

Ascoreless first half from both teams was played, yet some great football played and plenty of near misses.

The game broke open for the relentless Gippsland in the second half with Sidbox opening the scoring.

Oliver Lee, Lewis Manzo, Beckham Bremner and RyanOgg were rock solid in defence, starving Caseyofscoring opportunities and shutting down attacks with composure.

Both Romeo Vitale and Quinn Asmussen were solid in goals, handling the ball with care.

Harry Lee came on with impact, running hard down the right side and connectingpasseswith Lucas O’Dowd,DinoGrbic then putUnited 2-0 up with agreat strike.

Isaac Sharp got on the end of agreat string of passes to put the boys 3-0 up and out of reach for Casey.

Agreat all-round team effort saw the boys take their first win of the season, with the work being doneonthe trainingpitchcomingtofruition, pleasing coahces Manzo and O’Dowd.

GUFC 3dCasey Panthers 0

Player of the Match -SidneyBox.

 PRE-NPL U13S GUFC VS BENTLEIGH

GIPPSLANDUnited Pre-NPL 13s headed down the highway to face off against league leaders, Bentleigh Greens.

With twoplayers out due to illness andinjury it was shaping up to be abig challenge for the United Boys.

In agame that would see the boys play their best game to date, it wasultimately decided by acouple of defensive errors and several missed opportunities.

The United boys hit the pitch hard in the first halfand kept up and challenged theirmore fancied opponents.

With plenty of play and possession they just couldnot final that finalpass in their third to convert into agoal.

Bentleigh capitalised on aquick turnover and put aballthrough which deflected off one of our defenders into the path of the Greens striker who slotted the ball home.

The secondhalf sawthe United boys create plenty of chances, but again could not find that final ball in to finish.

The defence led by Munday between the sticks and assistedbyHalkett-Dobson, Robson and Roberts held firm for the majority of the second half, but unfortunatelyacouple of chaosballs into the box resulted in agoals.

GIPPSLANDeased to a2-0 win over home team

Kingston City FC on Sunday morning.

As the sun broke through the clouds the boys found their flow early in the match and kept up theirintensity until the final whistle blew and the match points were won.

Fraser Smith was astrongforceindefence, consistently shutting down Kingston’s attacking forward line.

Mitch Dastey was in the thick of things, with a well-timed pass finding striker Jett Koppen who sent the ball flying past the keeper for Gippsland’s first goal in the sixth minute.

Declan Ryan continueshis strong form in the midfield, setting up several chances for the boys to try and capitalise on.

Each Gippsland player worked quickly to shut down any attempts from Kingston to even the score and went into half time still one goal ahead.

Kingston City ratcheted up pressure on goalkeeper Harrison, who met each attempt calmly.

Several magnificent saves held the home team’s score to zero.

Accurate, well-timed passing resulted in Gippsland’s second goal with Henry Knight capitalising on aflick to the right from Jett, sending the ball flying into the box where Bill Prior was waiting to finish it off.

Afew tense moments in the secondhalf, however Gippsland’s defensive line of Declan Paku, Ethan Bruce and Patrick Frayne held strong, their skills in clearing the ball out of danger consistently on display.

This is Gippsland’s second win of the season and awell-deserved one at that.

 JBNPL U18S GUFC VS KINGSTONCITY

TheGippsland boys took to the park away from home last weekend against Kingston City, who sat second on the table coming into the contest.

It was the home side who took control early, coming forward with afew early attempts and testingthe Gippsland goalkeeperand defence,

before adefensive deflection took the ball past the goalkeeper and into the net, giving the home side the advantage.

Shortly after, it was Kingston who doubled their lead with avery clean finish at the back post.

Heading into the second half, Gippsland were able to show their strength and defend brilliantly, with some great defensive efforts, the Gippsland boys held Kingston to their two-goal lead for 40 minutes of the second half.

However, Kingston were able to find athird and fourth goal late on, taking the game with a4-0 victory.

Although the loss, Levi Colantuono was able to take control in the midfield, as well as seeing defensive efforts fromBen McCartney and Lucus Vick, combinedwith goodshot-stoppingfrom goalkeeper Jared Goodwin, which held Kingston to only afour-goal win.

 JBNPL U14S GUFC VS KINGSTONCITY FC

REASONS WHY YOUSHOULD