Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 8 February 2023

ChampionsofGippsland

Brace for bumps

By PHILIP HOPKINS

THE closing date for the LoyYang Apower station looks set to stay at 2035, but AGL Energy’s new chief executive expectsa “bumpy road” as the company continues its drive towards renewable energy.

Damien Nicks,who has just beenappointed CEO after being the acting chief executive for several months, will oversee the company’s plantospend $20 billion on renewable energy generation and storage as it undergoes its transformation frombeing the nation’s biggest coal generator by 2035.

Mr Nicks told the Australian Financial Review that the market should not expect any changes to the strategy agreed to last September.

“There are going to be bumps along the road. This is not going to necessarily be apurely smooth ride for the whole market,” he told The Australian. “But for us it’s about having clarity about how we

deliver. We’vegot deepplans over thenextseven years to 2030. And we’ll continue to refine those plans, and then continue refining those plansout to 2035 as well.”

The strategy unveiled last September brought Loy Yang A’s closure date forward by 10 years from 2045 to 2035 after the coal giant faced growing pressure to speedupits energy transition to renewables. Grok Ventures, its biggest shareholder with more than 12 per cent and controlled by techbillionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes, had beenpushing to close Loy Yang Aby2029.

Grok was responsible last year for AGL cancelling its demerger plan to create astand-alone coal energy company. The demerger plan was backed by Mr Nicks and the AGL chair, Patricia McKenzie.

Mr Nicks plans to update major shareholders,including Grok, on how it will carry out its green strategy. Grok did not reply to queries from media on Mr Nicks’ appointment as chief executive.

The mainstream media reportedthat investors were generally happy with Mr Nicks’ appointment. Fund managerand AGL shareholder Geoff Wilson said the big question was whether Mr Nicks could bring the dynamism that the transition needed.

“Hiskey challengesare motivating his team. The agenda is there, it is just aquestion of will the energy be there to be dynamicand catalyticinchange,” he told The Australian.

Debby Blakey,chief executive at superannuation fund HESTA, said Mr Nicks provided “leadership certainty” as AGL embarksonits bigchallengeto transform its business for alow-carbon future.

“We look forward to hearing how the boardand management plan to implementits climateplan, including how the company will support impacted communities,” she told the AFR.

Photo:Tom Parry

Care finders provide extra support to access aged care services

ANETWORK of care finders to provide face-to-face support for people accessing aged careservices will be established across Gippsland.

In response to arecommendation of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the federal government has fundedGippslandPrimary Health Network to commission the care finder program, complementing the existing ways of accessing My Aged Care.

Care finder in Gippsland will be delivered by three service providers -Latrobe Community Health Service, HAAG (Housing for the Aged Action Group), and MiCare.

Gippsland PHN acting chief executive, Angela Jacob,saidsome olderpeople needed extrasupport to navigate the aged care system and access My Aged Care.

“Thiscould be for anumberofreasons,” Mrs Jacob said.

“Some peoplehavecommunication and languagebarriers, difficulty processing information due to cognitive decline, or they may be reluctant to engagewith support including government services.

“Care finder will help people understand and access aged care services and connect with other relevant supports in their community.”

Mrs Jacob said that the care finder program targets older Australians eligible for aged care services who had one or more reasons for requiring intensive support.

“This includes people who are, or are not yet, receiving aged care services.

“Care finder assists people who don’thave family, friends, acarer, or arepresentative they are comfortable receiving help from and who is willing and able to help them access aged care services.

“We know there are people who need this extra support and that’s what care finder can provide.”

The details for care finder programin Gippsland are:

 Latrobe Community Health Servicedelivering throughout Gippsland. Phone 1800242696. Email carefinders@lchs.com.

au  HAAG -Housing for the Aged Action Group -referral and intake line. Phone 1300 765 178. Email intake@oldertenants. org.au

 MiCare -delivering in Baw Baw and East Gippsland. Phone 0499 885 495. Email suzanne.coombs@micare.com.au

For more details to the Gippsland PHN website at https://gphn.org.au/what-wedo/ programs/programs-aged-care/

AMA questions accuracy of our elective surgerywaitlist

THE Australian Medical Association (AMA) has disputed the accuracy of the state government on elective surgerywaitlist data, claimingthe true numbers may be significantly worse than reported.

The AMA’s independent analysis also shows Victoria has the worst elective surgery backlog, with 135,000 Victorians waiting for surgery.

The figure represents astaggering 50,000 more than the state’s official figure of 85,000, and represents 44 per cent of the national backlog.

The AMAhas predicted Victoria’s elective surgery backlog will continue to worsen, rising to 203,045 patients.

Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath, has expressed concerns about the AMA’sfindingsand the ongoing high levels of waitlists in Latrobe Valley and West Gippsland.

“Across the Valley and West Gippsland, we know that2092people werewaitingfor elective surgery at the end of 2022 financial year,” Ms Bath said.

“Despite the best efforts of our hardworking health care workers, Labor’s strategy is failing and people are languishing on unacceptably long elective surgery waitlists.”

In the AMA’s 2022 Public Hospital Report Card, president of AMA Dr Roderick McRae, stated “Victoria’s public hospitals are in crisis” and this status “pre-existed SARSCoV-2” -citinginsufficient investment in staffing and infrastructure.

Ms Bath said to put the elective surgery crisis in perspective, the AMA estimated the New South Waleswaitlist was60,000 lowerthan Victoria’s

“Over the lastyearthe elective surgery waitlists for Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH) and West Gippsland Health Service (WGHS) has blown out by an additional 702 people,” she said.

“Instead of improving resources and supporting

Issue: Member forEasternVictoria Region, Melina Bath, says electivesurgerywaitlists in the Latrobe Valleyhavereachedcrisis levels

our hospitals -the premier has attempted to hide his crisis by raising the acceptable performance benchmark for elective surgery waitlists.

“It’s an unacceptable situation for our communities and health care workers.

“Ourhospital workers are doing an admirable job underenormous pressure, but acomprehensive and well-funded plan is needed to reduce elective surgery waitlists locally.

“TheAndrews government must betterresource LRH and WGHS to ease the burden on our healthcare workers.

“My focus is on supporting locals to achieve improved health outcomes and get our hospitals the resources they need to address the elective surgery backlog.

“Anyonewantingtodiscuss theirpersonal concerns on elective surgery waitlists can contact my office during businesshours on 51747066 or email me on melina.bath@parliament.vic.gov.au”.

Fatal collision in Glengarry

MAJOR CollisionInvestigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding afatal collision in Glengarry on Tuesday.

Police were told three cars were involved in a collisionatthe intersection of Traralgon-Maffra Road and Farmers Road about 3.50pm.

The driver of one of the vehicles, a35-year-old Glengarry man, died at the scene.

His passenger, asix-year-old-boy, was airlifted to hospital in acriticalcondition.

A22-year-old Traralgon man, who was driving the secondvehicle, was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

He is assisting police with their enquiries.

The four occupants of the third vehicle were not injured.

The exact cause of the collision is yet to be determined and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, has dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stopperson1800333 000, or submit aconfidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Missing horse float

IN the earlyafternoon of January 92023, an unknown person allegedly attended amachinery shed in Kilmany, taking home afabricated horse float.

The floatisdescribed as awhite angle float with green and silver stripes. ‘Rand’ is printed on the front above (pictured).

If you know anything about the theft ,contact

Teacher shortages are hitting hard in first weeks back

SCHOOLS, especially in Victoria in New SouthWales, are alreadyreportedly under great strain from alack of workforce coverage.

This crisis has been brewing for along time.

Dr Fiona Longmuir of Monash University said the situation was worrying.

“There aresome hard lessons that must be learnt. Our research shows teachers are burning out,” she said.

Dr Fiona is alecturer in educational leadership in the facultyofeducation at Monash University.

Dr Fiona’s current research investigates interactions of school and system leadership with student engagement and agency.

“With schools facing the brunt of the teacher shortage crisis as students return for 2023 -there are some hard lessons that must be learntabout how we support teachers in our country,” she said.

Senior ConstableCantwell atRosedalePolice

Stationon5199 2222 or phone Crime Stoppers.

Woman hit by Subaru

A21-year-old TraralgonEastman wasarrested in Kew on January 18 and charged with dangerous drive causingserious injury,fail to remain at collision scene, fail to render assistance and fail to report acollision.

It is alleged awoman was hit by ared Subaru in amotel car-park on Blackburn Road, Mount Waverley just after 6am.

The driver of the Subaru allegedly fled the scene, and the 35-year-old woman was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Stolen vehicleinMaffra

BETWEEN about 10am and 11.30am on Thursday, January 19,unknown offender/sallegedly attended an address in SandyCreekRoad, Maffra and gained access to the garage and house.

They allegedlystole awhite Renault Koleos wagon -registration BLE-332 -from the garage.

If youhaveany information in regardstothe stolenvehicle,contact MaffraPolice on 51471026 or Crime Stoppers.

“Our research with over 5000 Australian teachers indicated that teachers are burning out from long hours and emotional drain, combined with feeling undervalued and disrespected. Andwiththe current wide-spread staffing shortages, teachers are being stretchedevenfurther.

“Thismeans the most likely trajectory is that the crisis will get worse.”

Actions directed at retaining current staff and appealing to those that have recently left must be afocus. Interventions that reduce workload and work intensity are most likely to have an impact.

“Ourresearch suggests thatteachers want less administrative burden, (including reduceddatareporting), they want more specialist support for students’ socio-emotionalneeds, and theywant more time to build relationships that support students’ learning and social development,” Dr Fiona said.

Thereisalsoarole for families and communities in this challenging timeappreciate and support the teachers at your schools. Positive engagement with students and parents is important to teacher satisfaction and therefore retention in the workforce.

PoliceBeat with Stefan Bradley

Engaging with thelocal community atMid Valley

LASTmonth, police fromMorwell conducted atwo week operationwith an aim to provide a highly visible police presence, to engage with the community and deter anti-social behaviour.

“Community safety is number one priority which is why we regularly engage with local traders and communities to address issues and provide asafer environment for all,”acting senior sergeant, Martin Tullet, from Morwell Police said.

Local police conducted anumberofpatrols and visits to the Mid Valley Shopping Centre in consultation with the centre management.

Mid Valley ShoppingCentremanager, Sjaala Harbridge, said addressing anti-social behaviour continues to be apriority.

“We arevery pleased to be working withlocal police during this operation,” she said.

Photosupplied

Nicks steps into the AGL chair

From Page 1

HESTA believedthatwithstrongboard leadership and management,therewas scopefor AGL to raise its ambitions on decarbonisation, she said, shifting form its current 1.8degree warmingtrajectory to align with the moreambitious1.5-degree pathway in the Paris climate agreement. The Grok camp maintained last year that the 2029 date would push AGL towards the Paris goal.

However,MsMcKenzie,the AGL chair, argued that faster closure of the coal plants was not possible because replacement capacity could not be built in time to keep the lights on and prevent high energy prices.

AGL’splan to create 12 gigawatts of renewable energywould include 6.5GW of primary generation such as wind and solar farms, and5.5GW of firming capacity, including batteries and pumped hydro.

To achieve the target, AGL says it would have to build 12 new wind farms the size of its 453 megawatt Coopers Gap operation north-west of Brisbane, and another eight solar plants the size of its 102MW Nyngan solar farm in western NSW.

In addition, it would need 14 new 250MW grid-scale battery stations, supported by at least eight other long-duration energy storage plants,such as pumped hydro operations, hydrogen or bio-fuelled firming projects.

AGL has 3.2GW of firming capacity in its development pipeline and under construction, including a250MW battery at Torrens Island in South Australia, due for completion this year, The Australian said.

Other elements include the 200MW battery at Loy Yang A, a500MW battery at Liddell power station in the Hunter Valley, a50MW battery at Broken Hill, and a250MW pumped hydro project at Muswellbrook in NSW. The remaining coal-fired units at Liddell will be closed by April and the nearby Bayswater power station by the end of 2033.

“Police will continue to have ahighly visible presence both on foot andonthe roadsacross Morwell, including the CBD and major shopping centres,” Sergeant Tullet said.

Both police and management from Mid Valley Shopping Centre thank the community for their support during this operation.

Police encourage anyone with concernsfor community safety, to reportthesematters to police or contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or submit aconfidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Williams brings up the half-ton

THE team at Keith Williams Real Estate in Traralgon would like to congratulate Grant Williams on an amazing achievement of 50 years in real-estate.

Having been in the industry since he was 20, what Grant loves most about the industry is the people and long-term friendships he has made with his clients over the years.

Described by his clients as the “humble agent” and a“quietachiever”, Grant gets the deal done with no fuss.

Grant hopes to never retireand keep listing property for as long as he can.

Congratulations Grant!

Busses replace trains this weekend

COACHES will replace trains on the Gippsland Line between Southern Cross,Traralgon and Bairnsdale from the evening of Friday, February 10, to the last service on Sunday, February 12.

Real-timetraffic conditions are available at traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au or via the VicTraffic mobile app.

The latest publictransport information and networkstatus is availableatptv.vic.gov.au or in the PTV mobile app.

Safety first: Mid ValleyShopping Centre manager,Sjaala Harbridge and actingsergeant, Daniel Engel from Morwell PoliceStation.

Wake up call needed

COMMENT FROM GREATLATROBE PARK

UNDER current arrangements, enormous ugly and inaccessible wastelands are adefinitepossibility in the future for abandoned Latrobe Valley mine sites. As aresult, Great Latrobe Park (GLP) is becoming increasingly alarmed at the apparent lack of meaningful action by the state government regarding mine void rehabilitation and potential repurposing.

While it has agreed to directEngie to conduct an Environmental Effects Study, this has major limitations, notably that it will clearly advantage the first mover, Engie,over Yallournand Loy Yang. It is obvious that the government has put mine rehabilitationinto the 'toohard basket' and is simply hoping that something will turn up to solve the problem.

They did set up the Mine Land Rehabilitation Authority, in the process tossingaround much 'community consultation' and 'trust us' rhetoric, but as yet there is little evidence of sensible, properly informed, and appropriate strategic planning There is much potential for irreversible damage to our community and environment along with erosionofour quality of life if we simply stand aside and let foreign commercial interests and political expediency take over.

Those of us who are oldermight notbemuch affected, but our children and grandchildren will most certainly be.

There is an 'elephant in the room' that could well

inflict much harm if not properly managed, and the community deserves much more than to be treated as bystanders. We have, after all, provided the state with the power needed to sustain arobust economy for more than acentury, and endured more than our shareofpollution,dramas and toxic emissions.

Arecent series of 'technical studies' concluded that themost practical and economically feasible treatment of disused mine voids is to fill them up withwatertomakethem “safe, stable and sustainable” -asthe current mantra goes.

This technique is not only unprecedented on such avast scale, but is untested and so far lacks the scrutiny of adetailed study.

Importantly, the studiesconductedtodatestress that there is unlikely to be anywhere enough available water to achieve complete filling of all the voids-unlessitrains veryheavily for years to come! This has big consequences for ourregion and the health of our environment, especiallyas thereisnoneed, fromastability perspective, to completely fill anyofthe mine voids withwater.

GLP will continue to promote discussion on this vital issue and more communicationwill soon be forthcoming.

It is the intentionofthe group to encourage the community to take more control overits future and not allow itself to be ignored or steamrolled.

Alot is at stake.

Greater Latrobe Park is aproject, who's vison is that the repurposed Latrobe Valley open cuts and associated areas become treasured assets.

Reportpoints to compliance

Facts: Member for Gippsland South, DannyO’Brien, has called out Premier Daniel Andrews. File photo

MEMBER for Gippsland South Danny O'Brien saysDaniel Andrews should apologise to duck hunters, after claiming that rules were not followed on bag limits during last year’s duck season.

Mr O’Brien said the Premiermade thecomments last week while stoking the prospect of aban on duck season and he couldn’t be more wrong.

Mr O’Brien said the government’s own Game ManagementAuthority had released a2022 compliance report, which showed that just one hunter was found to have exceeded the daily bag limit out of 979 who had been checked.

“Duck hunting is alegitimate sustainable past time that is an important part of cultural activity in Victoria,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Thereisnoevidence thatducknumbers are in trouble despite the claims of aloud activist minority.

"After three wet years, there are good numbers Australia-wide and significant breeding activity.

“Duckseason is enjoyed by many regional Victorians and bringssignificant economicbenefits

to our region as hunters come from across the state to enjoy their past time.

“The fact thatthe Premierischoosing to mislead Victorians is deeply concerning. He is completely wrong about rules not being followed on bag limits and he should apologise to the law-abiding people whogoduck hunting.”

Mr O’Brien said the annualdebateover duck season was getting tedious.

“I fully appreciate that there are peoplewho don’t want to see animals consumed or harmed in any way and choose not to eat meat or fish," he said.

“The reality is that for some people, harvesting wild game is simply another means to putting food on the table.

“It is concerningtomethat duck huntingis constantly targeted when other huntingand fishing activities don’t rate amention by activists -yet.

“I support astronglyregulated, ethical and sustainable duck season and the Premier should do so too.”

PROUDLY BROU

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. Mike Brady sang this song about an Australian rules footballer?

2. Karl Stefanovic co-hosts this Australian morning show?

3. What was Tasmania originally know as?

4. Patrick is afriendofthisyellow,underwater person?

TWO POINTERS

5. If Ivisited the town of Beechworth, what state would Ibein?

6. TedBullpit was acharacter on ths Australian TV comedy show from the early 1980’s?

7. The original lyrics to Waltzing Matilda werewritten by what famous Australian poet?

8. What team did recently retired AFLWfootballer,Daisy Pearce play for?

THREE POINTERS

9. Who was the Motley Crew drummer that Pamela Anderson was married to?

10. Murder On The Orient Express is afamousworkbywho?

11. According to the expression, necessity is the mother of what?

12. True or false. Peanuts arenot nuts?

FOUR POINTERS

13. Bronze is an alloy consisting primarily of what two elements?

14. What cooking term means to submerge food very quickly in boiling water?

FIVE POINTER

15. Name these brands from their logos. One point for each correct answer

Crossword Puzzle No. 8520

Howtoplay...

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

Milestone: Geoffand Danielle Hall celebrate 60 yearsofmarriage this year

Photosupplied

60th wedding anniversary

LATROBE Valley Locals Geoff and Danielle Hall are celebrating 60 years of marriage this year.

Geoff was born at Moe Bush Nursing Hospital in 1940 and Danielle was born in Goulburn NSW in 1942, coming to the Latrobe Valley at the age of six.

Both completed school in the Valley -Danielle was educated at St Kieran’sPrimary and Presentation College Moe. Geoffwent to Yallourn Primary, Yallourn Technical College and Monash University.

The Halls met at Shaw’s Ballroom in 1958 and were married five years later at St Kieran’s Church, Moe on February 2, 1963.

The pair lived in Melbourne for the first six years of theirmarriage, but returned to the Latrobe Valley where they would stay for the next 54 years and counting.

Geoff worked for the SECV for 32 years, and for Latrobe Regional Hospital for nine years.

Danielle worked at Purvisstores, Panthers Mensland and Raues Leather Goods.

Both are keen golfers at the Yallourn Golf Club, where Geoff is alife member.

They have three daughters;Narelle,Tanya and Maria, eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Super Speirs top professional

YARRAValley Water’s senior people partner

Rachel Speirs has been recognisedasone of the top professionals in Australia’s HR industry.

Ms Speirs, who grew up in Traralgon,has been listed in the 2022 edition of HumanResources Director’s (HRD) Rising Stars Report.

In August 2018, she joined Yarra Valley Water and jumped from HR business partner to senior HR business partner within 12 months.

Sincethen, Ms Speirshas taken the diversity and inclusion portfolio to another level, and helped grow the organisation from having adiversity lens to being focussedontruly creating an inclusive culture.

As senior people partner, Ms Speirs has led the company’sdiversityand inclusion strategy, and is recognised as atrusted advisor of Yarra Valley Water’s pride network.

In 2021, she established the water utility’s diversity and inclusion committee.

Ms Speirs said she was honoured and humbled to accept the accolade.

“I’m really humbled and honoured to receive this award. Asincere thanks to my colleagues for the nomination,” she said.

“I'm grateful to HRD for continuing to highlight the contributions of emerging talent in our industry.”

One of her biggest achievements has been leading Yarra Valley Water’s first gender equality action plan. This has led to initiatives such as aremuneration review of senior employees aimed at closing the gender pay gap, increasing flexibleworking arrangements and providing above national standard leave entitlements for parental leave.

General managerpeople,performance and culture, Amy Singe,saidMsSpeirs wasthe perfect example of what agood HR leader should be.

“Rachel is smart, strategic, and business focussed

Great guns: Rachel Speirs, whogrew up in Traralgon, has been listed in the 2022 edition of Human Resources Director’s (HRD)Rising StarsReport.

Photosupplied

as well as being empathetic and agreat listener," she said.

"Shequickly moved up the ranks because she workshard and delivers exceptional results for our business.

“These are some of themost prestigious HR awards in Australia, and it's so greattosee Rachel recognisedfor herrole-modellingand strong work ethic. She is an exceptional HR professional who continues to go from strength-to-strength in her career.”

People ofTraralgon celebrate together

By TOMHAYES

AUSTRALIA Day celebrations were full of fun in Traralgon, with plenty of entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

The festivities began at 8am, when the community barbecue started to feed hungry mouths of those up early enough.

With numbers continuing to flock into Victory Park, the barbecue was popular for acouple of hours until around 10am.

The raising of the flags commenced at 8.30am, with those there early enough able to witness it.

Throughout the morning, the Traralgon City Band kept the vibe alive, as well as local artists

providing more entertainment, keeping everyone in attendance occupied.

Ahandball competition was set up for the kids, as they hadagoatgetting the ball through the hole in thetarget.

From 9am, the heart walk commenced, which was in partnership with the Heart Foundation Walkers.

Peopleeitherwalked alone, in groups, or with theirfamilies; some even took their dogs!

The morning full of activities, music and fun concluded around 10am, as most people left to enjoy their days off and the kids squeezed out the last remains of their school holidays.

Cowwarr Aus Day in photos

Seconds:

COWWARR celebrated Australia Day, with a gathering put on by the Cowwarr Fire Brigade and Hall Committee.

Attendees saw aflag-raising ceremony, conducted by students from Cowwarr Primary School, and music provided on acoustic guitar. Those who made the trip down got together for agroup photo after the event.

Address:

Australia Day: ThetownofCowwarr gathered foragroup photoafter theevent.

Strum: Local guitarist ‘Meth’provided tunes forthe event, hosted by theCowwarr Fire Brigade and the Cowwarr Hall Committee

Raise: Cowwarr PrimarySchoolstudents Ruby Cooper,LexiMartin and Mackenzie Gibbs raise theAustralian flag with CFA member Ed O’Brien. Photossupplied

On target: Thehandball competition, hosted by TraralgonFootball-Netball Club,was apopular attraction. Photographs supplied

Lions Club President, KevinTaylor, gives his speech

On your marks: Participants prepare to start the heartwalk.

Lions Club memberscookingup sausages and bacon.

All ears: Traralgon Bandentertainingthe crowd.

Squad: Theteam preparing theeggs

Feast: Attendeestucking intotheir free barbecue breakfast.

Op shopping is asustainableway forward

By JADA CANNIZZO*

TRARALGON’S RSPCA Op Shop’s new manager, SusanTas, is encouraging those in the community to come and have alook at the op shop to see if they have what you might be looking for before buying something brand new.

The Traralgon RSPCA Op Shop was previously staffed by volunteers until Ms Tas started in September last year.

By having amanager, it now means the store is open for the same hours during the week.

Ms Tas’ goal over the past couple of months has been to make the store “more cohesive”.

RSPCA’s aimistoabolishanimal crueltyand neglect.

The way RSPCA’s Op Shops helpthis aim is through donations.

The Op Shop will sort, and price items, and the

Rotarians taking the trip down memorylane

money raised goes to the RSPCA,continuing their work to help abolish cruelty and neglect in animals.

When askedabout the best thing about people who volunteer, Ms Tassaid “their passion”

“Their passion for raising money for the animals. That’s why they’re here. That’s why they do it. They’ve come here because they want to make a difference.”

The Traralgon RSPCA Op-Shop currentlyhas 15 volunteers. But is always open to having more.

Ms Tas said most of the volunteers are retired people,howeverifthere is anyone that wantsto give acouple of hours here or there -they are more than welcome.

“For the older people who volunteer it givesthem apurpose and afabulous social network within the community,” she said.

“We get to unpack the most weird and wonderful donations.”

Ms Tas highlighted that sometimes people drop off some pretty gross things, but then people also donate the most incredible items.

“Just last week we had aladydonate around 300 garments and 90 per cent were brand new pieces with tags still on.”

“You name it, it comes through the door.”

Op Shopping is great for repurposing and recycling. WhichMsTas highlighted in today’s climate, is great as so much of our pre-loved things end up in landfill.

“My shop window is all recycled used plastics, all donated items -mainlykitchen products and toys,” she said.

Traralgon RSPCA Op-Shop is happytotake donationsduring opening hoursofgood quality items. At the moment, they are especially keen to take kitchen items and décor.

Helping hand:

“We take it all, at any time,” Ms Tas said.

Traralgon RSPCA Op-Shop is located at 103 Argyle Street, Traralgon.

Open 6days aweek Mon to Fri 10am to 4pm and on Saturdays 10am to 3pm.

If you want to volunteer at the op shop, visit the RSPCA website and follow links for volunteering. You must be 16 and over.

*Jada Cannizzo is an intern working with the Latrobe Valley Express

Service: Moe RotaryClub and Inner Wheel Club of Moe hosted asocial event recently. Photossupplied

AN evening of reflection and rotary fellowship was enjoyed recently, when past and current rotarians,together with members of Inner Wheel Club of Moe and other invited guests, attendedasocialevent at the Moe Library meeting rooms.

Two meeting roomswere converted into asmall cinema and avery entertaining video, produced by club president RobinNoakes, captured rotarians in action in the Moe community over the past 74 years, was viewed by an appreciative audience.

Accompanied by acontemporary soundtrack and featuring photos of past rotariansinservice and having fun, the video invoked happy memories. The recording also included snapshots of Moe and Newborough through a

Welcome: Moe Rotarians, invited guests and partnersof rotarians enjoyingfellowship

historical lens and provided a context for the various rotary projects and activities undertaken in the district.

Alight supperand refreshments were enjoyed after the screening.

President Robin Noakes was thrilled with the response and said,“so enthusiastic was the audience that asecond showing was requested by quite a few guests”.

Youth theatreexcellent for community

GIPPSLAND YouthDrama Workshop (GYDW) is set to launch its first production group for 2023. The workshop will soon begin writing and rehearsing for aJune show, with youngperformers traveling from across the region to be involved in the original production.

Afterthe massive audience hit performance of the original comedy TheUnsinkableShip in November, the group of young performers were presented with production awards in recognitionoftheir dedication and enthusiasm for the performing arts. The group is now setting themselves for anew production, which will mark 30 yearsinGippsland,and invites new members to get involved.

Established in 1993, the theatreprogram is unique in that every production is original and conceived by the participants.

GYDW has produced more than 100 original shows, involving over 2200 regional performers.

The workshop sessions focus on building performance skills, as well as confidence, team work, vocabulary,communication, responsibility, and manyother attributes transferabletolife.The main aim is to enhance the young performer’s natural talents, and provide apositive educational theatre experience in asupportive environment.

Director Phillip AMayer said, “Dramahelps build resilience, well-being, self esteem and engagement, and participation exposes young people to essential skillswhich help them cope with challenges. There is nothing but positives,and it’s aprivilege being a part of instilling an appreciation for the performing arts in regionalyouth. It’s areal positive for the community and the kids love it”.

“Young performers build plot, characters, themes and humorous scenes which they find interesting and valuable in expressing their ideas.

“We incorporate improvisations, theatre sports

games, writer’s workshop sessions, the rehearsal process, stage craft, voice projectionand afinal production open to family, friends and the general public. All the participantsare given good sized roles commensurate with their experience and ability, and they buzz with excitement at performing in front of alarge audience.”

The group is enhanced by members of the awardwinning Here There and Everywhere Theatre Co.

“We have an amazing team helping to produce theatre with wonderfully talented and dedicated young people from across Latrobe,” Mr Mayer said. “Theatre is allaboutexpressing yourself and viewing the world in unique ways so you can try and make sense of it. It’s also alot of fun.

“Takingpartinthe dramatic arts is one of the best ways to develop the imagination and support creative expression, especially for young people Collaborating withpeers, discussing big ideas and

learning the skills of live performance can help prepare kids for real-world challenges. Our curriculum is designed and delivered by experienced performers, with apassion for making adifference in young people’s lives.”

The workshop’s new production startsfor rehearsals on Wednesdays, and welcomes new young stars to join.

The show is booked for June 24.

Running from5:15pm until 6:45pm, weekly rehearsals are conducted in Traralgon, and are open to young participants from upper primary school age through to 17 years.

Final applications for the new show close soon, with bookings essential as places are extremely limited.

For further information, phone the directoron 0409 878 688.

Teachers given opportunity to studymore inclusive education

THE state government is giving more Victorian teachers the opportunity to strengthen their knowledge and skills in inclusiveeducation, to continue supportingstudents withdisabilities and additional needs.

Minister for Education, Natalie Hutchins, encourages teachers to apply for aplace in one of twopost-graduate courses, that aim to strengthen inclusivity for students of all abilities.

“We’re making sure every child and young person in Victoria -nomatter their background, abilities or differences-can meettheir potential and access agreat education,” Ms Hutchins said.

“I encourage teachers to apply for aplace in one of these two post-graduate courses to strengthen their knowledge and skills in inclusive education, and continue supporting our studentswith disabilities

and additional needs-ensuring they can thrive both at school and in life.”

The MasterofInclusive Education Program providesteachers with the chance to upskill at mainstream, specialist schools andsupported inclusion schools, as well as deepen their knowledge and capacity to include, motivate and challenge students with disabilities and additional learning needs by focusing on their strengths.

The Graduate Certificate in Education (Learning Difficulties) Program -which has been designed by the University of Melbourne’s Graduate School of Education -helps teachers to understand the differenttypes of learning difficulties and the interactions between them, and build skillsto influence change in their schools.

By undertakingapostgraduate study in inclusive

G L PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOUBYTHESEPARTICIPATING LOCALBUSINESSES

education, teachers can make asignificant contribution to how their schools plan and support students with disabilities and additional learning needs, and with behavioursofconcernusing contemporary evidence-based, best practice approaches.

The long-term vision is for everyVictorian government schooltohave aqualified practitioner on staff, creating and leading amore inclusive school environmentfor all students across the state, regardless of their abilities and backgrounds.

The post-graduatecourses are also akey initiative of the Disability Inclusion Reform Agenda -with the state government investing almost $1.6billion in disability inclusion to ensure schools have the resources, support and guidance needed to give every child agreat education and enable them to reach their full potential.

Solutions

Target Time No.0143

anther,ashed, ashen, ashier,danish, dash,dasher, dearth, death, dish, dither,earth, hade, hair,haired, hairnet,hand, handier,handiest,handset,hard, harden, hardest,hardiest,hare, hared, hart,hast, haste, hasted, hasten, hastier,hate, hated, hater, hatred, head, hear,heard,heart,heat, heir,heist, herd, hernia, hied, hide, hider,hind, hinder,hint hinted, hinter,hire, hired, hist,nashi,neath,radish, rash,rath, rhea, saith, saithe, sandhi, shad, shade, shadier,shard, share, shared, shear,shed, sherd, shied, shier,shin, shine, shined, shiner,shire, shirt shred, shrine, sinh, snath, sthenia, tahr,tanh, tarnish, TARNISHED, than, thane, thar,their,then, thenar, thin, thine, third, this, thread, trash, trashed.

Target: Average-50, Good -65, Excellent -85+

Applicationsfor the Master of InclusiveEducation and Graduate Certificate in Education (Learning Difficulties) programs are now open.

The Master of Inclusive Education Program has 75 places available across seven universities. Teachersworking directly with studentswith disabilitiesand additionallearningneeds can apply by visiting education.vic.gov.au/inclusive-education

The Graduate Certificate in Education (Learning Difficulties) program is offering 75 places for Semester 2, starting in July this year.

Learning specialists, leading teachers and classroomteachers working directly with students with learning difficulties can apply at education. vic.gov.au

Underway: Gippsland Youth Drama Workshop is getting ready forits firstproduction of the year

Photosupplied

Portraituretalk

MOE Art Society members enjoyed a talk from member Christina Wilke on portraiture at arecent meeting in Moe Library.

Those that attended enjoyed the knowledgeable lesson from Christina and gained alarge amount of informationtohelp them when drawing or painting aportrait.

Christina has printed notes, some 27 pagesofinformation, for thosewho are interestedtopurchase for the sum of $15, which covers the cost of printing. Christinaiswilling to helpany member who did not attendwith their efforts in portraiture.

The societyisveryhappy in their new home, and has welcomed many new members since the beginning of the year.

Regular Thursday meetings are from 9am until 3.30pm in the glass room at the east end of the library.

Some of our members are going to the Monet Exhibition at the Lumetoday (Wednesday).

Libby Witchell will be holdinga workshop on February23atthe library, 9am until 3.30pm.

Any artistinterested in attending can phone BerylGalloway on 0407 271 686 to see if we have aplace available. The cost is $60 for the day which will include aworkshop on multimedia, tea and coffee, etc. Those attending are requested to bring their own lunch. Alistofthings to bringalong to the workshop is available when you register.

For any informationonthe society, phone Peter McLaren on 0400 933 609 or Beryl Galloway.

Visitorsare welcome at any time during the day for achatand acuppa

TRAMPS ride

ON Sunday, January 29 agroup of 14

TRAMPS membersmet at Toongabbie for an afternoon and evening ride.

This wasa great beginning to our rides for this year.

The route took the grouptoCowwarr Weir for afternoontea, then along Stoney Creek Road, quite an adventure itself, into Heyfield.

After awell-earned dinner at the local pub, the return ride was along the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail back to Toongabbie.

Riding into an enchantingsunsetwas adelightful surprise to the night ride.

The daylight lasted almost to Cowwarr so that bike lights wereonlyneededfor the last few kilometres.

Our next ride starts at the Sugarbeet Museum, McMahon Drive Maffra at 9am on Sunday, February 12.

TRAMPS welcomes new riders.

For more information, visit our website: www.tramps.org.au, our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/www.tramps. org.au or call Paul on 0459 823 422 or Vance on 0403 662 288.

50/50 Dance

LIONS Club of Trafalgar,inconjunction with the local band ‘Not Dun Yet’, will be holding a50/50 Dance at Trafalgar PublicHall on Sunday,February 12 from 1.30pm to 5pm.

The musicwill be half rock n' roll and half old time, played in 10 minute

CommunityCorner

segments.

The event will be family-friendly, so all will be welcome.

If you can’t dance, come along anyway and enjoy the music. Sing along to 50s/60s rock and old time songs.

There will be prizes for door ticket/ Monte Carlo. Admission prices are $5 single, $10 family.

Please bring your own nibbles,tea and coffee will be supplied duringthe break

Please note that this is an alcohol-free event.

We hope to make this aregular monthly event if it’s popular enough, so please come along to support it.

For further information, phone John on 0488 047 777 or Alan on 0410 089 430.

Gathering of performers

PLANNING has started for this year's Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod -doyou want to be involved?

Eisteddfod derives from ancient Welsh, and is used to describe agathering of musicians, actors and dancers.

It was seen as an important way for performers to develop their skills, share theirknowledge andpassion with other performers, and to entertain the public.

The Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod continues this tradition by organising a performing arts festival every August/ September in Traralgon and Morwell.

There are sections forchoral/vocal, instrumental,piano, speech/drama, brass bands and theatrical dancing.

Besides primary and secondary schoolsections, the eisteddfod offers the opportunity for people of all ages, be it solos, duos, bands, orchestras or dancetroupes, to performonstage in greatvenues.

While many volunteers are required during the actual Eisteddfod, we also need people year round to help organise this amazing festival.

We are alwayslooking for enthusiastic people with skills in areas such as convening, event management, accounting,

legal, publicity, IT, ticketing, canteen, photography, sponsorship, publishing, timetabling,and volunteer coordination. Email us at eist@lve.org.au for more information on how you can be involved in keeping this great event running.

Artclasses

TRARALGON and District art society has been serving the local area for 40 years with art for all ages.

Our art group is afriendly group meeting on different days of the week for social paintingdays andlearning to paint, for adults, teens and children from eight years.

Thesecondchildren’s class will hopefullystart up in the second term.

Oil painting classes are offered on a Mondayafternoonfor six weeks from February13, and possibly Friday morning (17th), for beginners, or those with someexperience.Thiswilllead into outdoor painting (plein air).

If you are retired or neverpainted, you are welcome to come along and try your hand. We are presentlyinrooms at the side of the Park Lane Kinder, in Smith Street, Traralgon For moreinformation,ringAndrea on 5176 6000.

Come and have ahit

BADMINTON is coming to Traralgon for the 2026 CommonwealthGames, and as such, the local club is aiming to build on this andattract manymore players.

If you are interested, come and try and practice /training nights every Tuesday nightatTraralgon Stadium(Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium) from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Everyone welcome. Phone Garry on 0421 272 576 for further information.

Meditation evening

THE Planetary Meditation for Peace (also known as Twin Hearts Meditation)

This is ameditation designed to bless the earth and is an instrument of world service for peace, loving kindness, joy, goodwill and abundance. In addition, thismeditation cleanses and energises theenergetic body while also promoting ahigher level of awareness and consciousness.

Afterthe meditation, youcan experience afree Pranic Energy Healing, which can address both physical and emotional issues.

Note that this is aguidedmeditation and no prior experience is required.

When: Every Tuesday 7pm to 8.30pm; every Thursday 10.30 am to 12 noon.

Contact: Garry (0476 162 646), Amanda (0411 051 044).

Location: 2Avondale Rd, Morwell.

Cost: $5 (donation).

Coal ValleyMale Chorus

MEN interested in singing?

Drop into arehearsalfor alook-see on Tuesdays, 5pm at Morwell East Senior Citizen's Centre.

Orana

ORANA Seniors Club is afriendly and welcoming place. We play Rummikuband 500 on Tuesdays from 1pm to 4pm.

On Thursdays, we havecraftfrom 1pm till 3pm. Even if you don’t have aproject at the moment,just come alongand enjoy some company and help us solve the problems of the world.

Thereisa $2 activitiesfee payable once aweek.

The first Thursday of the month, we have alunch meeting and usuallya guest speaker.

Ourmeal costs $20 and the members decide what will be on the menu. It always involves alovely dessert.

On February 18, we are having a games and pool afternoon. Bring your lunch and $2 around noon and have a social gathering and then at 1pm the activities will begin.

We have any amount of games and a fabulous full-sized pool table. Ourrooms arelocated at 5Ollerton Avenue, Newborough. Go up the hill, past the two mailboxes

and turn left into the LVV. Continue through to the ample car parking area and you willsee the Oranaclubrooms on the left just this side of Stamford Street. We charge a$5annual membership fee, and of course all activities include acuppa anda biscuit.

RingHeather on 0429862 196, Jocelyn on 0493 496 296 or the rooms on 0487 111 792 for more.

Cancer council

MOE Cancer Council's next fundraising event will be the Strzelecki Stringbusters at the Moe RSL on Saturday, February 18.

Showstartsat7pm. Entryis$30 per person,meals will be available to purchase before the show.

Tickets are available from Diane on 0438 517 470 or Linda on 0427 671 780.

All moneyraised will go to cancer research for ovarian cancer.

Our next meeting will be our annual meeting, held on Monday, March 27 from 1.30pm at the Moe RSL. All welcome.

Formoreinformation,phone volunteer group contact Beryl on 5127 4028, or Linda on 0427 671 780.

Cancer Council Supporters Hot Line: 1300 65 65 85

Cancer Council Help Line: 13 11 20 Quit Line: 13 78 48

Craftgroup

HAND in Hand has recommenced at theMoe BaptistChurch Hall, corner Fowler and Vale Sts, at 9.30am.

Come and join us as we learn cardmaking,patchwork and applique, knitting and crochet,orbring your own project.

If you have acraft you would like to teach, we would love you to come and see us.

All are welcome. Phone Marilyn on 0409 661 548.

Product demonstration

THURSDAY, February 9from 10am to 3pm at Gippsland Conference Centre (1/121 Hotham Street, Traralgon).

Product demonstrations of the latest equipment, including the VisionBuddy from aQuantam Technology expert.

Keith Chenhall Charitable Trust

FOR 20 years, the Keith Chenhall Charitable Trusthas distributed money to support the cultural, social, educational, environmental and community welfare of the local community. In that time, more than one million dollars has been distributed to more than 30 organisations.

Applicationsfor 2023 fundingclose on Monday, February 27. Community groups and organisations with DeductibleGift Recipient (DGR) status are encouraged to apply. For further information, please phone Ian on 0419 313 831.

Chess results

STRONG defence was enough to leave Peter Bakker with asmall lead after the round finished on Tuesday, January31.

with Liam Durkin

Most welcome: Moe Art Society members benefited from a recent talk regarding portraiture Photos Supplied

Steven Ahern forced the win in two games after succumbing to the attacks in earlier clashes against Ian Hamilton.

The material loss provedtobetoo much for both Cliff Thornton and Bob Cooper in most battles.

Matt Boldingfound the win in his first clash, before slippingupintwo other battles.

Phone Ian Hamilton on 5134 1971 or Cliff Thornton on 0413 330 458 for details on Latrobe Valley Chess.

NewTai Chi class

ANEW Tai Chi for beginners’class will be starting soon at the VRI hall in Queens Parade, Traralgon.

Facilitated by an experiencedTai Chi and Qigong teacher, this course will introduceparticipants to Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi,which is an 18-movement form of Qigong.

It is based on the principles of Tai Chi but is easier to learn.

Flowingmovements gently stretch and strengthen muscles,coordinated with breathing to promote the connection between mind, body and breath.

This course will help people develop flexibility, balance, good breathing and posture, prolong mobility and learn to destress.

The course is scheduled for Wednesday mornings 9.30amto10.30am,but other times may be availableifthere is enough interest.

For more information and to register your interest, phone the Traralgon Neighbourhood Learning House on 5174 6199 or email enquiries@tnlh. org.au

Boolarra Folk Festival

ONLY aworldwide pandemic has been able to stop this annual festival going ahead, but it is set for ajubilantreturn this year.

The multi-award winning Boolarra FolkFestival, whichattracted more than10,000 people in 2020, is afree, all-day community event set against a backdrop of the magnificent mountain ash trees of Gippsland’s Strzelecki Ranges.

The festival presents 10 hours of music, more than 50 market stalls featuring local arts and crafts, festival merchandise, and 15 food stalls offering adiverse range of delicious cuisines.

This year’s festival will be held on Saturday,March 4inRailway Park, Boolarra from 10am to 8pm. Car parking is available, including accessible parking.

The opening of theBoolarra Folk Festival is also afree event, andwill be held at the ARC in Yinnar on Friday, March 3. Fivegreat acts will take to the stage at 19 Main Street,Yinnar from 7.30pm.

The Boolarra Folk FestivalissponsoredbyLatrobe City Council, Loy Yang B, The Foundation for Regional and RuralRenewal, Bendigo Bank CommunityBranch, Mirboo North Community Foundation, Hip Pocket Workwear, and Cool Aqua Springs.

For any inquiries regarding the festival, email boolarrafolkfestivalhq@ gmail.com

Working bee

LATROBE Valley Beekeepers Associationare holding aworking bee at their Pollination Garden at 99 Saviges Road, Moe on February 11 from 9am to 1pm.

Lunch will be provided, and those interested should register before the event so that the organisers can cater accordingly.

To registervisithttps://lvba.

wildapricot/events

The Latrobe Valley Beekeepers Association welcomes any new volunteers, and anyone that may be interested to come down.

Anyquestions or further information canbeobtainedbyemailing Ang/Kate via LVBAPollinatorGarden@gmail.com

VRI Learning Garden

THE community garden at the VRI Hall in Queens Parade, Traralgon, has recentlyhad aname change to the VRI Learning Garden.

Manager Julie Callahan said the name changereflects the philosophy behind the garden as “being aplace where the community can come together to learn and grow”.

The VRI Learning Garden is urging anyone with an interest in plants and gardening to come down and volunteer.

The firstpaddocktoplate and no waste livingcourse will be commencing soon, with an information session scheduled for Wednesday,February 8at10am.

This is the perfect opportunityto learn about planting, looking after your garden,and growing your own food, soil health, composting, simple garden beds etc.

“Now more than ever before, reconnecting with nature, the community, and growing your own healthy food is vitally importanttophysical, emotional, and mental health,” Julie said.

Anyone interested in learning or sharing their skillsiswelcome at the learning garden as avolunteer.

Thoseinterested can also facilitate courses and workshops to help the community learn about growing their own food and sustainable practices. For further information and to register your interest, phone the Traralgon Neighbourhood LearningHouse on 5174 6199 or email enquiries@tnlh. org.au

What’s on at Old Gippstown

OLD Gippstownisopen to the public Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm.

Old Gippstownisnow conducting ghost and parktours monthly. The February tour has already sold out.

Next ghost tour is March 18.

HeadtoOld Gippstown’sFacebook page to book your ticket.

The twilight market at Old Gippstown is on March 4.

The water wheel, originally from Buxton, now situated in the lovely garden at Old Gippstown, is currently out of use. Once up and running it could be an amazing attraction. Significant amounts of money needstoberaised to get the water wheel into action again, so that it can be enjoyed by the whole community and visitors.

CoordinatorTinasaid“Getting [the wheel] turning again with the sound of rushingwater being fed back into our creek, would bring much joy to the community and be an absolute asset to the park”.

Donate to the GoFundMe here: https://gofund.me/52f0afea, phone Old Gippstown on 03 5127 3082 or email: enquiries@gippslandheritagepark.com. au to help get involved!

Februarymeeting

THE nextmeetingofthe Latrobe Valley Sustainability Group will take place tonight (Wednesday, February 8) in the Gippsland Multicultural Services building, 26-28 Tarwin Street, Morwell, commencing at 7:30pm.

Jules Cole from the Latrobe Valley Authority will be the guest speaker.

The Latrobe Valley Authority is astate government body set up in November 2016 to supportthe region as it transitions away from coal-fired power generation.

The authority works with communities, councils, industry, education providers and governmenttosecure lasting outcomes for the Gippsland region.

Jules will give apresentation on the progress of the Gippsland Transition Plan,and seeks communityfeedback on this draft document.

The public are welcome to attend. No need to book, just come along on the night.

Newborough

Venturer Scouts

ARE you aged 14-17 years and looking for anew activity to try this year? Would youliketomakefriendsand get active?

Why not try Venturer Scouts?

The Newborough Venturers meet weekly on aMonday evening at the Newborough Scout Hall.

We also get together some weekends for hiking, camping,bikeriding and other outdoor activities.

Venturers can participate in statewide, nationwide and overseas camps meeting youth from all over the world. For more information about Venturer Scouts in Newborough, please call Jane on 0403 656 351.

SuppAUT

LATROBEregionparent/familysupport

groupfor those who have kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

SuppAUT is aparent-run group that aims to support one another as parents/ families of achild/children with autism.

The group is open for all, whether your child is ababy, pre-schooler, school aged,specialist school, mainstream school, home-schooled or is an adult -we all need support and can support each other.

We share our own experiences, problems, joys, successes and support each other with alistening ear and understanding.

It is avery informal gathering, sometimes aguest speaker is invited.

All parents/carers/family members are welcome and children/siblings are welcome too.

We meet every first Friday of the month, except during school/public holidays 2023 meeting dates

Term 1- Feb3,March 3

Term 2- May 5, June 2

Term 3- Aug4,Sept 1

Term 4-Oct 6, Nov3,Dec 1(Christmas lunch time TBC)

Meet at Daily LivingDisability Services -7 RoclaRoad, Traralgon from 10am to 11.30am.

All are welcome to come for acuppa, morning tea and achat in arelaxed setting.

For more info or enquiries about the group,phoneLouise Varsacion0414 540 296 or email varsaci@aussiebb. com.au

Join our group on FacebookSuppAUT Autism support group for families in Latrobe Valley, Victoria

Seniorslooking foractivities and company

THE Traralgon East Senior Citizens are recruiting new members for their club.

If you are interested in line dancing, indoor bowls,knit and natter, pool, table tennis, card games and alibrary,then this is the club for you.

We are open daily, and would welcome any new members who are interested in companionship and making new friends.

Pleasephonethe club on (03) 5174 6936orthe TESCC president on 042 774 1711.

The club is located at 2Matthews Crescent, Traralgon.

Gippsland Orchid Club

WE start the new year withanew venue for our meetings. The clubhas relocatedtothe Traralgon Anglican Hall, situated at 100 Grey StreetTraralgon (opposite the RSL car park).

This is an exciting move for the club. Our first meeting for 2023will be held tomorrow (Thursday, February 9).

Doors openat1.30pm for a2pm start.

This month’s meeting is an opportunitytocatchupwithall the otherorchid lovers after the Christmas break.

New members are very welcome.

We havemembers who are expert growers, others who enjoythe challenge of becoming abetter grower, and those who are beginners and are ready to learn.

Also, Geoff and Robin will help (and entertain) us with adiscussion on plant preparation for showing at both our club monthly meetings and also at our two major shows held at Mid Valley in August and October, 2023.

Club members recognise the contribution the Baptist Church made to our club providingour venue for four years, and wish them well in the future.

For furtherinformation ring secretary Pat on 0407 741 621.

Moe Meditation Group

THE Moe Meditation Group has commencedits weekly program on Wednesdaymornings (8:30am to 9:30am) in theInstitute Hall at the Gippsland Heritage Park (Old Gippstown) Moe.

Yoga, Qi Gong and meditation are ancientpractices that have evolved overtime to bringcalm to unsettled bodies and minds.

This group will give you an opportunitytoinvestigate and apply what these traditions offer.

Theprogram is suitable for all ages andwill cost you $5 per session.

Enquiries to Clem Jarvis on 0427 262 064 or email clem@asia.com

Rehearsals underway

LATROBE Community Concert Band has resumed rehearsals for the year, and are seeking new members.

Rehearsals are held 6:30pm to 9pm on Monday's, at aroom adjoiningthe Newborough Hall.

There are avariety of instruments available for member's use.

For more information, visit www. lccband.com, or call Tony on 0407 096 091.

Youcan be apartof Community Corner

IF you are acommunity group andhave 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 'Community Corner' in the subject line and nothing else.

Deadline is Friday 9am to appear in the following Wednesday issue.

Setting off: TRAMPSriding theGippsland Plains Rail Trail.

Pensioner puts pen to paper

IT never ceases to amaze me and Ialwayshave achuckleatthe number of pensioners who are forever complaining they don't get enough money from the government.

Yet, they somehow magically find the dollars to spend on things like bingo three times aweek, play the pokies at least three or four days aweek, find money for cigarettes and alcohol and have a punt on the TAB.

I'ma91-year-old pensioner and my only vice is a $5 daily double on aSaturday and $5 worth of raffle tickets at the local bowling club on aFriday night.

But Ipersonally know of pensioners who do partakeinthese 'activities' on aregular basis, and they still whinge and complain they don't have enough!

Goodness me, are they fair dinkum?

But, as Oliver Twist famously said, "please sir, Iwantsome more".

All Ihave is my pension, Idon't have a'cash cow' at my fingertips, or wealthy family members who can help if needed.

Ipay rent,then on top of that comes my living expenses and theseexpenses don'tinclude the above mentioned activities.

It's mentally and financially exhausting.

Perhaps, just perhaps these greedy pensioners have amoney tree in their backyard or maybe a stash of cash hidden under their mattress.

Idon't believe for one minute they have anything to complain about.

These selfish and greedypeople must havean Aladdin's Cave full of 'moola' and obviously live a lifestyle akin to the Sultan of Brunei!

Roy Foenander

Traralgon

Government hypocrisy

IWONDER why?

Today (Friday, February 3), the federal government weresoooo happy to announce the fact China will nowwant our coal so exporthas now commencedpluswewill be exporting our gas to numerous countries as well.

If it's so bad for the environment and we have to suck it up, the attitude of the government of 'do as Isay notdoasIdo' when they fly overseas at taxpayer cost (accommodation meals etc) when I'm fairly sure that most could have been video linked.

These wealthy politicians don't appear to tighten their belts or seem only to follow their own whims andseem to forget they have to work for us, not dictate to us how we have to live. Also, Ihope they are cashed-up enough to pay for the replacement of allour gasappliances,including restaurantsetc because I'm certainly not.

Carol Hogan Moe

Our roadsneedproper investment

THE Andrews Labor Government is touting $165 million in funding for Victoria’s flood-damaged roads, yet it is currently leaving regional councils to foot the bill for damaged local roads.

Councils are responsible for tens of thousands of kilometres of roads that are vital to businesses andcommunities, which werealreadyinastate of disrepairbefore last year’s major flooding.

Laborshort-changed regional communities, cutting the road maintenance budget by 10 per cent whenitcame into government, and then axing the Country Roads and Bridges Program. It then cut afurther $215 million over the past two budgets.

Now, Victorians are seeingthe results of chronic under-investment first-hand.

Regional Victorianscontinue to do battle with patchwork roads, reduced speed limits and reduced loadlimits on bridges, watching on as DanielAndrews continuestopour more money into over-budget city projects.

This underinvestment is beginning to havetragic consequences.

Late last year amotorcyclist in northern Victoria lost her life aftershe hit apothole that flipped her bike.

Our roads need repairs now, not in six months’ time, and not after it costs more Victorians their lives.

Safer country roads save lives.

Peter Walsh Leader of The Nationals

All forvotes

IREADaninteresting quote from the federal Memberfor Gippsland Darren Chester who said: “The further you are away from the natural environment,the more likely you are to vote Green.”

This is not only atruism, but also highlights a huge problem in Australian politics, our environment and, as aconsequence, environmentalpolitics.

Because unfortunately we are getting decisions being made based on the views of those who do not understandthe environments they claim they want to protect, fuelled by like-minded city-based politicianswith afocus on votesrather than positive outcomes.

Neverhas this beenmore evidentthan throughout implementationofthe Murray-DarlingBasin Plan.

The plan was built on apoliticalneed to shore up these city-based environmentalvotes,while also protecting important seats in South Australia. Communities in blue ribbon eastern seats were considered expendable.

Now we haveaplan with poorly modelled volumes that were legislated in 2012 and because of the Green’s balance of power cannot be changed, even despite unequivocal evidence (highlighted during recent flood events) that is delivering such volumes from upperMurray storages to the South Australian lower lakes is impossiblewithout manmade flooding that will cause damage to public and private infrastructure.

This is environmental madness, all to achieve politicalgain.But it willhavenoimpact on the majority of Green supporters and city environmental ideologists because, as Chester says, they are the furthest away from this natural environment.

They don’t live it, they don’t understand it and, if truth be known, while they claim to care, in reality, the cost of their latte is probably ahigher priority.

Do we get frustrated at the nonsensical decisions that adversely impact ourcommunities and the natural environments in which we actually live?

You bet we do.

Laurie Beer Mayrung, NSW

Facts point to protesters being the problem

VICTORIAN Premier Daniel Andrews has stated his government has concerns with hunter behaviour during the 2022 duck season, specifically relating to hunter compliance with bag limits.

The hunter behaviour data is freelyavailable online from the Victorian Game Management Authority’s own press release dated June 16, 2022, at: https://www.gma.vic.gov.au/ media-releases/2022/2022-duck-season-summary

During the 2022 season,970 hunter bagswere checked, and one hunter wasfound to have exceeded the daily bag limit. That’s acompliance rate of 99.9 per cent.

TheGMA alsostated: “Mosthunterswespoke to were complying with the law and enjoying their time on the wetlands. However, some hunters and protestorswere in breach of gamehunting and public safety laws.”

In the remainder of the reported data, it is not clear which of the infringements issued or offences detected were committed by anti-hunters.

One point that is clear, is that of 360 protestors thatthe GMA interacted with in theprevious season, three were issued with banning notices (effectively banning them from entering wetlands due to their illegal conduct).

So,the protesters’ rateofnon-compliance is 0.83 per cent -ormore than eight times the rate of offending that was detected by hunters not complying with bag limits.

If Dan Andrews'Laborgovernmentwantsto

prevent non-compliance with the rules, he should ban protestors, not hunters!

Field &Game Australia will ensureMrAndrews and his government receive the correct advice on this matter.

Lucas Cooke Field &GameAustralia CEO

Stuffing cows with seaweed

IKEEPreceiving emails from afast-food joint claiming they are offering 'a sustainable beef burger'.

This would be laughable if it was not dangerous, misleading people into believing the absurd idea that stuffing cows with seaweed will make one of the mostpolluting businesses on the planet harmless.

Polluting industries like big coal and big meat are frantically trying to bamboozle customers into thinking their acts of greedy vandalism are not the cause of environmentally catastrophic climate change,and the latest is this Frankenstein-esque idea of stopping cows belching andfarting, as if that is the only issue. But reducing methane output while breeding still more animals ignores animal suffering, pollution from transport and excrement, deforestation, and the increased risk of diseases (including zoonotic viruses), all associated with animal agriculture.

Some 58 per cent of Australia is used for grazing

Over afive-year period, 94 per cent of land clearing in Great Barrier Reef catchments was attributable to the beef industry. These band-aid solutionsare intended only to prolong an industry that is fundamentally unsustainable.

These spin stories are reminiscent of the adslast century claiming that tobacco wasgoodfor people, even as lung cancer rates soared.

Consumers have the power to end environmentally catastrophic and cruel factoryfarming by removing animal productsfromour diets. And, with medical professionals increasingly espousing the virtues of aplant based diet,there's neverbeen abetter time to transition.

Desmond Bellamy PETA Australia

Have your say

THE Latrobe ValleyExpress 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 reasonsofspace and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.

The Express does not publish letters from anonymous contributors.

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

The viewsexpressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers, and do notnecessarily reflect the views of Latrobe Valley Express management or staff.

Emailletters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include 'letter to the editor' in the subject line. Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm.

Safety first: Nationals leaderPeter Walsh wants to see investment made on local roads. File photo

Aword from Labor Senator Raff Ciccone

COMMENT BY SENATORRAFF CICCONE

THROUGH the resilience of regional communities and aproactive and collaborative approach from the Albanese Labor Government, regional Australia has overcome many challenges in 2022 and set itself up for success in 2023.

Throughout the federal election campaign and in the period immediately after Labor formed government, the foot-and-mouth disease posed asignificant threat to the Australian agriculture industry and consequently, the Australian economy. Estimates suggested an outbreak in Australia would cost $80 billion.

Through the strongest biosecurity response in our country’s history and the vigilance of regional communities at the farm gate, we prevented footand-mouth disease from entering Australia.

Of course, this was notthe only challenge confronted by regional Australia in 2022.Floods swept through five states,waterlogging cropsand devastating farmers.

Despite the floods, data from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences released in December last year, shows that agriculture is growing. Agricultural production is forecast to be $85 billion in 2022-23, almost the same record level that was set the previous year.

The success of our agriculturesector despite significant challenges is part of Australia’s broader economic story. On January 30, our AAA credit rating was confirmed by Standardand Poor’s, reflecting faith in the underlying health of the Australian economy and responsiblemanagement of our country’s budget in the face of severe global pressures.

By strengthening our fiscal position, the Albanese Labor Government can make important investments in our regions.

The governmentisdeploying our resources strategically, to buildcapacity in ourcommunities so we can withstand shocks like floods, droughts

Fire restrictions now apply across Victoria

THE Fire Danger Period(FDP) has now come into effect across allmunicipalitiesunderCFA Fire Districts in Victoria.

On January 30, fire restrictions commenced in areas of the South Eastand outer Melbourne, bringing the entire state under restrictions.

Despite widespread rainfall late-last year, Victorians cannot become complacent about increasing fire risk, as vegetation continues to dry out rapidly across the state.

CFA chief officer, Jason Heffernan, said while the final municipalities to move into fire restrictions have seen adelayed start to the fire season, these areascan expecthigh fire risk conditions in coming weeks.

“We have already seen many of our crews respond to significant fast-spreadinggrassfires,and we can expect these incidents to become more frequent as we experiencewarmer and drierconditions throughout February,” he said.

“The run of warmer weather this month has led to the grassland curing across the state, which has contributed to increasing fire potential.”

Thelatestoutlook forVictoriasuggested the fire season is expected to be normal, except for parts of central, north east and eastern Victoria, where the potential is below normal.

“Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areasofthe world and even an average seasoncan result in dangerousand damaging fires,” CO Heffernan said CFA crews have also responded to anumberof illegalburn-offs out of control during thefire danger period so far this season, which serves as atimely

reminder for people to make surethey understand what the restrictions mean for them.

“Make sure you know what you can and can’t do during the Fire Danger Period, especially when it comes to barbecues,campfires, chainsaws, farm machinery, welders and other items that present afire risk.”

To learn more about ‘Can IorCan’t I?’ information, visit the CFA website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ warnings-restrictions/can or call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.

No burning off is permitted during the FDP without aPermit to Burn, which can be applied forthrough theFire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au

There are very strict conditions attached to these permits and the liability sits with the permitholder to ensure they always act safely.

Some simple actionsVictorians livinginbushfire risk areas can take to keep their property tidy include moving woodpiles away from yourhome or shed, pruning tree branches so they don’t overhang the roof or touch walls, clean up your gutters and keep grass shorter than 10 centimetres.

More information and restrictions are published at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/ firedanger-period-restrictions

CFA also encouragespeopletofamiliarise themselves the new, nationally consistent Fire Danger Rating System, found on the CFA website.

Fire Danger Period information:

 Awritten permit is required to burn off grass,

undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP. This permit may be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District Office. You can apply for apermit at firepermits.vic.gov.au;

 Lighting afire in the open without apermit is an offence and can bring apenalty more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment. Barbecues and fires for cooking and warmth do not require apermit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces (to view complete conditions, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/warningsrestrictions/can;

 The use of an incinerator, chainsaw/lawn mower, welding/grinding equipment and vehicles that come in contact with vegetation and machinery with an internal combustion/ heat engine are permitted provided conditions are followed;

 Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/ farms -this information is important especially for new farmers, bush block owners or hobby farmers, and;

 ATotal Fire Ban declaration means no fires can be lit for the declared district for that day unless there is aspecific exemption or special permit issued. This applies irrespective of the Fire Restriction status for agiven municipality. Further details at cfa.vic.gov.au/ warningsrestrictions/can/

and pandemics. We cannot just react to crises as they unfold,because there may be anotherone right around the corner.

An example of this approach is the Minister for Agriculture,Fisheriesand Forestry, Murray Watt, opening anew $40 million grants program to supportdrought resilienceresearch. Theprogram aims to fill gaps in research and scientific data relating to farming practices that may prove effectivein building drought resilience.

On adifferent policy front, the Albanese Labor Government has opened applicationsfor grants to assist the agriculture sector in demonstrating its sustainability credentials. This is becoming more important in key export markets, but there are currently gaps in our data and frameworks. These grants will help the sector address these issues.

Ilook forward to working with rural and regional Australians and my parliamentary colleagues to advocate forforward-thinking policiesthroughout 2023

Senator Raff Ciccone is aLabor Senator for Victoria. He is Deputy Government Whip in the Senate.

Want to build the village?

THE state government has opened the expressionofinterest (EOI) process for the construction sector to build the Commonwealth Games villages across the regions, ahead of the 2026 Games.

The Games villages will be home to around 7000 athletes and officials in Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong and Morwell, when the Commonwealth Games get underway in March 2026.

These projects will createopportunities for regional contractors to be involved in construction, supporting hundreds of jobs.

“The 2026 Games give us afantastic opportunity to partner with local businesses and contractors in creating athletes villages that aremodern, accessible, and energy efficient,” said Member for Eastern Victoria and Ministerfor Commonwealth Games Legacy, Harriet Shing.

Delivery partners are invited to submit an EOI to support delivery of: medium-density dwellings, including pre-fabricated relocatable dwellings; small apartment buildings and place making.

“Victoria 2026 will invest significantly in community infrastructure, including much needed additional housing in regional communities,” said Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery, Jacinta Allan.

Victoria 2026 will leave alegacy of housing and new and upgraded sports infrastructure to attract future major events.

It is estimated the 2026 Commonwealth Games will create more than 600 full-time equivalent jobs before they start, 3900 jobs during the Games, and afurther3000 jobs after the Closing Ceremony, and is expected to contribute more than $3 billion to Victoria’s economy.

Interested parties can registervia the Buying for Victoria websitebuyingfor.vic. gov.au, from which ashortlist of contractors will be invited to participateinaRequest for Proposal process.

His view: Senator Raff Ciccone (second from right) pictured during avisittoTraralgon last year

File photo

Australia Day in the timber town

By ZOE ASKEW

HEYFIELDresidents'admiration

forcommunity was unequivocally apparent at Thursday's Australia Day celebrations; like aslapinthe face or someone tipping abucket of iced cold water on you, youjust couldn't miss it.

January 26 celebrations would not have been possible were it not for the Lions Club of Heyfield and Heyfield AustraliaDay committee.

Each year, the two groups work to createthe event, bringing together and highlighting the outstanding achievements of people within their community.

Supporting, caring, giving, honouring, being together- this is what Australia Day means to the small town of Heyfield.

Brian and Cherril Marsh were sittingatone of the shaded picnic tablesinHeyfield Apex Lions Park, the morning sun slowly rising behind them, golden light seeping through the cracks in the branches of the surrounding trees.

Mr and Mrs Marsh moved to Heyfield30yearsago, escapingthe growingly busy streets of Melbourne.

The decision to relocate came after visiting friends who had recently moved to Heyfield; the decision to stay, what has kept Mr and Mrs Marsh in Heyfield all these years, is the community.

"Shortly after moving here, we were in acar accident," Mr Mash said.

"A few days after the accident, we saw this car driving down our driveway; it was one of our neighbours. He had heard aboutthe accidentand had come over to give us the car to use; we had never met him before."

Mr and MrsMarsh shared theirlove for their town and the community within its boundaries, the joy they get out of walking down the street and knowing everyone's name,whether it be Pam at the Heyfield IGA or back in the day, thelocal Heyfield Police Officer.

"It is such an amazing community here in Heyfield," Mrs Marsh said.

"Everyone is so kind and so caring; we love it here. People are so quick to put their hands up to help when needed. Walking down the street, everyonesayshi, and you know everyone's name, even the local police. Heyfieldreally does have an amazing community."

The smell of bacon cooking on the barbecuewafted across the park, strips of pink flesh popping and cracking and sizzling on top of the hot iron grill as it darkens to that perfect delicious state between not crunchy and too crunchy.

Standing overthe heat-radiating devices, turning strips of bacon and sausage, flipping half-gooey eggs, were members of the Heyfield Lions Club.

Withdrawing from the bustling outdoor kitchen, aloyalLions Club of Heyfield member stepped back and watched on proudlyashis

brothers-in-arms dedicated their time to their beloved community.

"I have been involved with Heyfield's Australia Day event for along time," he said.

He told how the long-runningyearly celebration was not held around 11 years ago, followingwhich he pledged to make sure there was an Australia Day event every year.

If anything,Thursday's crowd at the Apex Lions Park was abright red indicator of the importance of recognisingand celebratingpeople within the Heyfield community.

Wellington Shire Councillor, Carmel

Ripper, initiated the awardsceremony, beginning with Acknowledgement of Country.

"It is an absolute pleasure to be here in Heyfield today, which Ispent 15 years living here," Cr Ripper said.

"First, Iwouldliketopay respects to the traditional custodians of this land.

"I would like to thank the Lions Club of Heyfield, who worked tirelessly to organise this event.

"I am proud to be part of such astrongcommunity here in the Wellington shire," Cr Ripper added.

"Special thanks to everyday heroes, friends, neighbours and volunteers

as we reflect on the freedoms and opportunities in this country."

Lee Wojcinski was awarded Heyfield Citizen of the Year, and Maffra High School student, Maddison Winter,was awarded the 2023 Heyfield Junior Citizen of the Year.

The Heyfield Wetlands was named the Heyfield NewsAwardrecipient, Pam Darby from HeyfieldIGA was awarded Heyfield Outstanding Customer Service Award, and Bill Adams was named Heyfield Local Hero.

Friends: Heyfield’sNikitta MortimerKeast and PatsyWhitehead show offtheir face painting at the 2023 Heyfield Australia DayCelebration.

Colour: Heyfield’sLetti Ashley getting her face painted at the 2023 Heyfield Australia DayCelebration.

Role model: Heyfield resident andMaffraHigh Schoolstudent Maddison Winter wasawarded the 2023 Heyfield Junior Citizenofthe Year

Topshelf: LeeWojcinski (mother of Geelong three-time premiership playerDavid) was awarded Heyfield Citizen of theYear at theAustralia DayAwards.

Honour: PamDarby from Heyfield IGAwas awarded the 2023 Heyfield Outstanding Customer Service Award.

Great job: Bill Adams wasnamed Heyfield Local Heroatthe 2023 Australia DayCelebration.

Recognition: HeyfieldWetlands committee’s WendyRhodes, Barry Donahoe, Shiree O’Neiland Mike Kube with their 2023 Heyfield News Award.

Family: Heyfield’sDoug Speedie withhis grandchildren Lucasand Nicholas

Goodtimes: Heyfield’sDaisy Johns and Archie Domaille with Maffra’s Hundson Johnston and Oscar Johnston at the2023 Heyfield Australia DayCelebration.

Couple: Heyfield’sBrian and Cherril Marsh at the 2023 HeyfieldAustralia DayCelebration

Photos: Zoe Askew

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne Madeline Moore

February6- February12, 2023

Aries You’re feeling optimistic about the future as Jupiter (the buoyant planet of prosperity and positivity) journeys through Aries So your motto for the moment is from birthday great Bob Marley: “Love the life you live, live the life you love ” Wednesday is wonderful for fun, friendship and novel expressions of affection But avoid getting carried away, promising too much and then delivering too little (especially involving financial matters and helping others)

Taurus It’s time to network with family and friends in a variety of stimulating ways

Aim to surround yourself with positive people who boost your confidence and encourage your dreams But avoid getting drawn into complicated discussions about money or politics as ideological clashes are likely You have much to learn from a mentor or work colleague who has a wealth of knowledge and life experience to share with you There’s always something new to learn

Gemini With Mercury and Pluto s Gtimulating your sensuality zone, romantic Twins are in the mood for love and lust If you ’ re attached, it’s time to spice up the relationship with a sexy SMS or an erotic email Searching for your soulmate? Cupid has his arrows pointed in your direction and love is likely with someone from your past Perhaps an old friend or a former lover Happily single? A secret could be revealed that suddenly turns your world around!

Cancer This week’s stars help you view a close partnership from a surprising perspective With a few strategic tweaks, the relationship can be turned around and transformed You re also keen to show loved ones how much you really care Avoid being too overprotective though All relationships need room to breathe and there’s a big difference between loving and smothering Be inspired by birthday great writer Charles Dickens: “A loving heart is the truest wisdom ”

Leo Stimulating conversations and exciting adventures are the keys to a satisfying week for sociable Lions But has your job become rigid and boring? Vivacious Venus and innovative Uranus shake up your career zone, so prepare for some surprising professional changes and hold on tight! Your fiery temper – or an impulsive outburst – could set the Cat amongst the pigeons on the weekend The current situation is complex, so try to keep a sense of perspective

Virgo Life at planet Virgo can sometimes be rag ther stressful, as your days are organised with military precision and you try to get everything just right But strive to be much more spontaneous this week as Uranus and Neptune toss your usual timetable out the window and urge you to stop and smell the roses along the way So your motto for the moment is from birthday great, author and activist Alice Walker: In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect ”

Outwitting thenits

Libra When it comes to creative expression you may feel as if you ’ re going backwards but putting in longer hours won’t fix the problem Do your best to work smarter rather than harder If you relax and let things flow, then the ideas will come Your domestic situation is going through a major metamorphosis, as you initiate a change that livens up your home life When it comes to close relationships aim to be less self-absorbed and more generous with loved ones

Scorpio

Your creativity and originality are firing, as you form a new partnership or pursue a joint project With three planets activating your communication zone you’ll feel like conversing, studying and/or travelling If you ’ ve been waiting to get something off your chest, Monday through until Wednesday is the time to express yourself Things could become intense on Friday or Saturday when the Mercury/Pluto conjunction gets your compulsive Scorpio side going

Sagittarius Spontaneous Sagittarius – yougcan find it difficult to be on your best behaviour and follow the rules Expect the unexpected this week, as the planets stir up your restless (and reckless) side You’ll balk at restrictions being placed on you (especially at home and work) but resist the urge to be a disruptive influence Put your personal wishes aside, and make sure you stay well-informed and fulfil your responsibilities to the wider community for the greater good

AT this time of the year, parents of school-age children are settling intothe new school year -and all the challenges that this brings.

While some of these challenges are easy to deal with, one of the biggest challenges facing parents is the ever-present threat of head lice, which seem to be part-and-parcel of the school experience for many children.

Your community pharmacystocksspecial combs as well as shampoos, conditioners, creams and other products to treat head lice infestation. There are chemical-based treatments available as well as anumberoftreatments whichare based on essential oils such as anise, rosemary, lavender, and tea tree oil. There also are arange of herbal products.

Capricorn

This week the focus is on business and financial matters Capricorns are usually incredibly patient and persistent but, when it comes to a frustrating situation, you could find yourself ready to throw in the towel The planets push you to keep on keeping on So your mantra for the moment is from birthday great, inventor and businessman Thomas Edison: “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time ”

Aquarius Wednesday favours stimulating frien qdships and falling in love very fast! With the Sun, Saturn and Mercury visiting your sign, you’ll feel restless curious and eager to explore radical new ideas You’re also keen to show others how innovative and interesting you can be, as you shake a loved one out of their cosy comfort zone Be inspired by fellow-Aquarian, actress and activist Vanessa Redgrave: “Ask the right questions if you re to find the right answers Pisces Venus is vamping through your sign, which encourages you to channel your inner hedonist as you eat, drink, socialise, entertain and live life to the max It’s also a wonderful week to host a lunch, dinner or party, where you can play the gracious host or hostess The late week Mercury/Pluto hook up activates your hopes-and-wishes zone so it’s a good time to revisit (or expand) your goals for 2023 Make your dreams as big and beautiful as possible!

CopyrightJoanne Madeline Moore 2023

GP1653151

Going back-to-school, or just starting school, means children are returning to the environment where head lice proliferate, and parents are often at theirwit’s end trying to find ways to get rid of them.

Catching head lice does not mean your child has done anything wrong or is not hygienic.

Statistics vary, but indicategenerallythat between 20-30 per cent of primary school students are likely to get head lice at some stage.

Asingleinfested head can successfully infest a whole classroom, and when the children return home, they often unwittingly pass the infestation on to the rest of the family.

Head lice are wingless creatures which cannot fly or even jump but move from host to host by crawling or climbing.

Close contact between children therefore gives them great opportunities to spread, but it is important to understandthathead liceare not confined to children. In fact, anyone can get head lice, but they are more common in children because of their close contact. Head lice do not carry disease, but we need to get rid of them.

If your child has head lice, you might notice your child itching and scratching, especially aroundthe back of the neck and behind their ears.

Abad case of head lice can lead to itchy dermatitis on the scalp, crusted sores and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

But this isn’t common, and your child can avoid it if you treat their head lice as soon as possible.

When you look closely at your child’s hair, you mightsee small,oval-shaped, white or brown-black nitsattached to the rootofthe hair, near the scalp. You might also see live head lice. Live head lice move fast so to spot them you might have to part your child’s hair very quickly Having found head lice, the next step is to try to get rid of them and fast.

MONDAY6 FEBRUARY

Summah Longson turns 7

Callum Hosking turns 7

Jack Vodden turns 11

WEDNESDAY8 FEBRUARY

Milla Mahoney turns 9

Sabastion Sorenson turns 11

THURSDAY9FEBRUARY

Xavier Mizzi turns 10

Kiralee Haddock turns 10

The wide variety of active ingredients available is duetothe fact that head lice are very adaptable and can develop resistance to some chemicals. For this reason, it is important to talk to your community pharmacist about what is the right product for you or your child.

Your pharmacist has the experience and training to make sure you get the best treatment. After selecting atreatment, it is important that following its use, you test to see if the lice are dead. This is because you need to be sure that what you are using is working on the lice.

While resistance is an issue,manytreatment failures are due to inadequate time in contact with hairand scalp,inappropriate application methods, or the use of ineffective products.

Ask your pharmacist to recommend an evidencebased product -that is: one that is proven to be effective -and also to show you how to applyit effectively. Whatever head lice treatment is chosen, afine toothcomb is essential to get the nits out.

If live lice are found in the combings after treatment, it’s possible that the head lice are resistant to the particular product,and retreatment should begin as soon as possible, with aproduct from a different active-ingredient group. If the lice are dead,treat againinseven days using the same product.

If the treatment has worked, the licewillbedead within 20 minutes. It is possible ahead liceproduct couldcause areaction andshould be usedwith care by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children less than 12 months old, and people with allergies, asthmaorwho haveopen wounds on the scalp.

Your pharmacist can advise you on how best to treat head lice and which productsmay work best foryou or your children.

FRIDAY10FEBRUARY

Taleesha Lee turns 9

SATURDAY11FEBRUARY

Bailey McGrath turns 11

Lachlan McGrath turns 11

Hazel Surowka turns 5

Sienna Hunter turns 9

Eyes peeled: Be on the look-out for headlicebeforeitspreads PhotoSupplied

Local student an outstanding role model in the community

LOCAL student Kaja Tierney was aguest speaker at Morwell Rotary recently to talk about her ongoing endeavours to achieve the bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Kaja spoke about how her voyage of self-discovery started in 2018 as aparticipant in the Rotary JuniorCommunity Awards Program whereher story began.

Kajaclaimed that participating in the rotary awards at such an early agegave her an understanding of community and culture, and

admitted that whether or not she was old enough to appreciate the importance of her award she didn’t know.

But she believed it was the steppingstone for where she is today.

Introducing the evening’sprogram, rotary chairperson Gloria Auchterlonie explained that all it takes for the Rotary JuniorCommunity Awards Program to succeed is aspecial teacher, aspecial student with supportive parents, and a special school.

Rotary had all these in Maria Harkins, Kaja and her parents; Michelle and Darren Tierney, and St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School, Traralgon.

Kaja thanked members of Morwell Rotary for their continued interest in her journey, and for the opportunity to speak about her experiences in the hope her story may inspire others to become more involved in their own surrounds and communities

Kaja explained how the Duke of Edinburgh Awards are designedtoempower youth through engaging with organisations and volunteersin order to develop and learn new skills, gain confidence and overcome obstacles.

Students are offered anumberofactivities, such as physical recreation, skills, community service and adventurousjourneys.All the activities are designed to challenge individuals in the way they see themselves in the world.

Kaja’s teacher MrsHarkins wasunable to attend to hear her presentation, but sent aletter of congratulations and paid tribute in describing Kaja as “a powerful young person with such great gifts and kindness of heart, and even as aGrade 6student, had leadership potential with aquiet achiever approach."

The evening closed with Ms Auchterlonieand Morwell Rotary president Colin Matthies extending the club’s thanks and congratulations to Kaja and her parents, and best wishes in her future studies and interest in medicine.

Back to school party in Trafalgar

Congratulations: Kaja with parents Darren and Michelle Tierney, Rotary chairperson Gloria Auchterlonie and Morwell Rotary president Colin Matthies

Proud: Kaja withparents Michelle and Darren Tierney with her Duke of Edinburgh AwardCertificate.

ST JOSEPH’S Primary School, Trafalgar community welcomed back students and teachers after the January school holidays last week.

Agroup of fun-loving students dressed in party hats and novelty glasses and danced to welcome everyone back.

Crossing supervisor, Rosie Sawyer, joined in by strutting her impressive dance moves too.

It’s great to be back at school!

Celebration time: ChloeMynard, crossing supervisor Rosie Sawyer, Kaylem Horton-Maynard, (front) Sophie Pedemont and Maya Garratt backatschool at St Joseph’s Primary,Trafalgar Photosupplied

Well done: Kaja Tierneywith competitive cycling medal (bronze). Photos supplied

Wetlands start to come back to life

WETLANDS are essential for the health of people andthe planet

With 35 per cent of the world’s wetlands having disappeared in the past 50 years, West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA) is proud to be working all year round reflecting this year’s World Wetlands Day theme to ‘revive and restore’ degraded wetlands.

Celebrated annually on February 2, the international day aims to raise global awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and the planet.

In Gippsland there are many ecologically and recreationally important wetlands, including two Ramsar-listed wetlands -GippslandLakes and

Corner Inlet.

“There is alot to celebrate about the restoration and protectionofwetlandsacross the vast West Gippsland region,” WGCMA chiefexecutiveMartin Fuller said.

“As well as having strong cultural significance, they provide essential habitat for wadingbirds and wildlife. They also protect the environment by capturing and filtering water and acting as a natural sponge to absorb, store and reduce flood levels.

“There aremanyexamples of wetland restoration in keeping with this year’s theme -including mighty storiesofpartnerships to restore and protect

wetlands such as Heyfield, Heart Morass and the Lower Latrobe.

“There arealsomanyprivate landholders who have created wetlands on their property, and are actively contributing to ongoing wetland recovery across the region.”

The WGCMA is proud to be part of protecting these wetlandsthat have all been improved through community effort such as tree planting with Landcare and partners, citizensciencemonitoring through programs like Waterwatch, and strong partnerships to secure fundingfor initiatives such as watering infrastructure in the Lower Latrobe. Results from ongoing efforts are encouraging,

and the combination of recent high rainfall and ongoing, managed, deliveries of environmental water are seeing wetlands coming back to life along with wildlife, including endangered species such as the Australasian Bittern and Growling Grass Frog, returningtofeed andbreed.

“Wetlands are essential to the health of the West Gippsland catchment and we will continuetowork togetherwith TraditionalOwners, community and partners to help these important ecosystems thrive,” Mr Fuller said.

“Much of the groundwork has been done and we look forward to continuing to redress the impact on these important areas.”

Applications open for WomenBuilding Australia mentor program

MASTER Builders Australia invites women with up to five years experienceinthe building and construction industry to apply for the 2023 Women Building Australia mentor program.

The program runs over nine-months, commencing on March 28, with applications closing on February 28.

“Mentees will be paired-up with established industry leaders in the industry to access support, encouragement and advice through amentorship relationship,” Master Builders Australia chief executive, Denita Wawn, said.

“With monthly engagements, program participants will also be required to attend the program launch,mid-program review and end of year wrap up.

“The buildingand construction industry is one of thelargest sectors in Australia. During November 2022, there were 1.29 million people employed in theindustry working in over445,000 construction businesses.

“However, women currently make up only 13.6 percent of theindustry’s total workforce. Threein 10 professionalsinthe industry are women but only 3.5 per cent are building trades and technicians.

“Theindustry is missing out on the skillsand talents of halfthe population by not attracting more women into trades.

“Improving the attractiveness of the industry to women presents amassive opportunity to increase

the pool of potential workers, and this program is one of the many initiatives through Master Builder’s Women Building Australia to assist.”

Rebecca Bishop and owner of Elite Building is a mentor in the program.

“I loved watchingmymenteegrow so much during our time together,” she said.

“Being amentor helped me to grow and learn new skills too.

“We need more women in construction. Irecommend the programtoall womenwho wanttobuild their network, feel less alone, develop better communication skills, work on themselves, feel more confident and make some new connections and

friends,” Program participant Laura Stevenson, acarpenter by trade, said she got alot out of the program.

“My mentorTara, whohas manyyearsexperience in the industry, was really great at giving me some insights on how to navigate it all and some ideas about the future,” she said.

“I was just starting off in my career and unsure at firstofwhatI wanted in the program. I’dhighly recommend this program to anyone starting out evenifthey felt unsurelike me as it was nicea feeling to work with someone who just gets it.

The gender pay gap is declining faster than average. Theproportion of women in all occupation groups, except administration, is increasing.

“There are more female trades and technicians in construction than ever before, and the number of females commencing atrade apprenticeship has more than doubled in the last five years,” Ms Wawn said.

Women Building Australiaissupported through afederal government grant and deliveredthrough Master Builders Australia aimed to attract and support women to succeed in the building and construction industry.

It includes arange of initiatives including career expos, afemale-led business register and adedicated harassment and discrimination support line.

For more information visit: www.womenbuildingaustralia.com.au

The timeisnow: Applications forthe 2023 Women Building Australia mentor programare open. Photosupplied

TheGuide

GARDENING AUSTRALIA

ABC TV,Friday, 7.30pm

Youdon’t need to be agreen thumbtoadorethis longrunning gardening series

Featuringatribeofpassionate and interesting presenters, they arethe secret to its success

Returning with its 24th season (or 34th year of episodes) tonight,effervescent host

Costa Georgiadis and his crew –including newteam membersTammy Huynh and Hannah Moloney –are in Melbourne’s lush RoyalBotanic Gardens. The episode is flush with many varied segments, but highlights include Hannah chattingwith aFirstNations educator at theBotanic Gardens about the gardens’history and Sophie visiting the plot of an acclaimed landscaper

THE WORLD’S MOST

BEAUTIFULLANDSCAPES

SBS, Saturday, 7.35pm

Settle in with asoft pillowand your favourite cup of teafor thisexquisite newseries. As the title helpfully suggests, this eight-episode visual extravaganza reveals the world’s most gorgeous scenery, but what youmay not realise is howthe show willallow youtounwind: it’sthe visualequivalent of ameditation session. Each episode covers a specific area –Queensland, the Amazon and the Scottish Highlands all enjoythe limelight –with geology, cultureand even localsall playing apart. Narrated by English actor Robert Lindsay,the knockout spectacle begins in Snowdonia, Wales, with its wildlife, slate mines and mountain peaks.

LOVE AROUND THE WORLD

SBS Viceland, Tuesday, 8.30pm

TheBeatles reminded us all thatall we need is love,and what better thing to do than look at the world through rose-coloured glasses?

After Croatians Andela and Davor Rostuhar married,they felt so loveydoveythat they decided to spend their“honeymoon”gallivanting around the world interviewing other couples aboutlove.They spent a year getting to know 130 couples in 30 different countries, with mostof the footage taking place inside the lovers’homes. It’sanintimate, gentle and moving set of portraits, with Andela and Davorcrafting a love letterto, well, love;the whole viewing experience, from the camera work, editing andinterviewing, wasall donethemselves.

PICK OF THE WEEK

BACK ROADS

ABC TV, Monday, 8pm

Veteran presenter Heather Ewart hands the reins to champion Paralympian Kurt Fearnley for tonight’s exploration of a close-knit regional community This series is celebrated for its inspirational storytelling in remote communities and townships around Australia and tonight, in its ninth season, the Northern Territory’s Tennant Creek gets the chance to spotlight its best side Fearnley has a way with words and connecting with the locals as he discovers the heartening side to a town that has often been associated with crime He meets an informal group of artists known as the Tennant Creek Brio uncovering a non-judgemental community along the way

On the road: Kurt Fearnley takes BackRoads to Tennant Creek

7.30.(R)

ABC TV PLUS (22)

5.10 Octonauts. 5.20 Hey Duggee.

5.30 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 5.35 Do,Re& Mi.

5.45 Kiri And Lou. 5.55 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.20 Bluey 6.25 Peter

Rabbit. 6.40 Ben And Holly 6.50 Shaun The Sheep.

7.00 Spicks AndSpecks. 7.30 Death In Paradise.

8.30 Banana. 9.00 Cucumber 9.45 Killing Eve.

10.30 Veneno 11.25 MOVIE: Trumbo.(2015,M)

1.25am Close 5.05 Tik Tak. 5.10 Clangers 5.20

Buddi. 5.25 Miffy’sAdventures BigAnd Small. 5.35

Baby Jake. 5.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Wildlife ER: Brought Back From TheBrink. (Premiere) Takes alook at the RSPCA wildlife hospital.

8.35 My Grandparents’War: Keira Knightley. (PG)Part 2of4.Keira Knightley retraces the footsteps of her grandparents during World WarII.

9.30 Bloodlands. The search leads to an abandonedhouse.

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Cargo (MA15+a)

12.00 Thin BlueLine (MA15+av,R)

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

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home AndAway. (PGa)

7.30 Code 1: TheCronulla Riots. (Malv) Alook at the 2005 CronullaRiots

8.30 TheFront Bar: AllSports Edition (Ml) Sam Pang, Mick Molloyand Andy Maher takealook at the world of sport and catch up with the stars of yesteryear

9.30 Kitchen Nightmares Australia. (MA15+l, R) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge 10.35 Police CodeZero: Officer UnderAttack. (MA15+l, R)

Bull to represent ateenager on trial for robbery 11.30 TheProject. (R) 12.30 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

(R)

Tenderness. Continued. (2013,PG, French) 6.15 The Way. (2010,PG) 8.35 The Crow’sEgg.(2014,PG, Tamil) 10.15 Tracker.(2010,M) 12.10pm Cousins.

(1987, PG, Danish)

Thursday, February 9

6.00 TheDrum.

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 YouCan’t AskThat: Dementia. (Final, Mal,R)Peoplelivingwith dementia share their stories.

8.35 GrandDesigns:House Of TheYear: Materials And Craftsmanship. Part 2of4.Kevin McCloud, Damion Burrows and Michelle Ogundehin visit fiveproperties.

9.20 Joanna Lumley’sHidden Caribbean (Ml, R) Part 2of2

10.10 Movin’ToThe Country. (PG,R)

10.40 ABCLateNews.

10.55 TheBusiness. (R)

11.15 Australia’sWild Odyssey (R)

12.10 Q+A. (R) 1.15 Parliament Question Time.

2.15 The Trouble With Maggie Cole. (PG,

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

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 From Paris To Rome With BettanyHughes: Venice, Bologna And TheBay Of Poets Part 2of4

8.30 American Presidency With Bill Clinton: Presidential Vision. Takesa look how the presidents who havemade the most impact have imagined what America couldbe.

9.20 Miniseries:The Walk-In (MA15+) Part 2of5.Robbie Mullen reaches out to Matthew Collins and Hope Not Hate to tryand prevent amurder

10.15 SBSWorld NewsLate

10.45 L’Opera. (Mdl, R) 11.35 World On Fire. (MA15+av,R)

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

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home AndAway. (PGa) Ziggy fearsshe is aterrible mother

8.30 TheBestOfThe BestAnd

WorstOfRed Faces (PGal, R) Daryl Somerspresents HeyHeyIt’sSaturday’s most popular, funny and weird RedFaces acts of all time, as well as discovering where some big namesgot their break, and what it wasliketobeajudge.

10.00 MrsBrown’s Boys. (Mls, R) Peggy Piper is released from prison.

10.45 To Be Advised.

12.00 MOVIE: Ready Or Not. (2019,MA15+hv) SamaraWeaving.

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 RBT. (PGd) Follows the activities of police units

8.30 Paramedics. (Ma, R) An ambulance crew comforts aschoolboywho has fallenout of atree.

9.30 Australia Behind Bars. (MA15+adl, R) Melissa Doyle takes alook beyond the high walls and barbed wires of three of maximum security prisons.

10.40 NineNews Late.

11.10 Emergency Call. (Ma)

11.55 CouncilOfDads. (PGa)

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)

Friday, February10

6.00 TheDrum. Analysis of theday’snews.

7.00 ABCNews. Takesa look at today’stop stories.

7.30 Gardening Australia. (Return) Sophie Thomson visits adesigner’shome.

8.30 VanDer Valk. (Mdsv, R) Part 2of3.Van der Valk investigates the death of ayoung woman.

10.00 TheLarkins (PG, R)

Ma booksa weekend in Margate.

10.50 ABC LateNews. Coverage of the day’s events

11.05 TheLarkins. (Ms, R) Pop Larkin takes justice into his own hands.

11.55 Adam Hills: TheLastLeg. (R)

12.35 Unforgotten. (Mal, R)

1.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

American

Cook Up

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Scotland: AWild Year: Autumn. (PG) Part 3of4

8.30 Megabridges: Spanning The Void. An insightinto the construction of three bridgesfrom different eras that are icons of progress.

9.30 Lighthouses: BuildingThe Impossible: TheSmalls. (PGa,R)

Part 2of3.Rob Bell explores the bizarre history of one of Britain’s most remote offshore lighthouses, The Smalls.

10.25 SBSWorld News Late.

10.55 Gomorrah. (Malv,R)

1.30 DasBoot. (Malv,R)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.(PG) 11.30

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Better Homes AndGardens. Johanna Griggs and theteam demonstrate some terrific ideas for thehouse, garden and the kitchen.

8.30 MOVIE: TheMartian. (2015,Mal, R) An astronaut believedtobedead after his crew were forced to abandon their expedition to Mars prematurely,has to rely on hisingenuity to surviveinthe planet’s hostile conditions while awaiting rescue MattDamon, JessicaChastain, Jeff Daniels.

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.30 IAmPatrick Swayze. (Mlv,R) Atribute to actor PatrickSwayze. [VIC]HomeShopping.(R)

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 ForThe Love Of Pets (PGm) Vets rush to savea German shepherd.

8.30 MOVIE: Penguin Bloom.

(2020,PGal) Based on atrue story

Amother’s world is shattered after a near-fatal accident leaves her paralysed.

NaomiWatts, Andrew Lincoln,Jacki Weaver

10.20 MOVIE: TheGlass Castle.

(2017,Ma, R) Four siblings learn to take care of themselves. BrieLarson

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Take Two. (R)

6.30 TheProject Alook at the day’snews andevents

7.30 Taskmaster Australia. (PGal) Comedy gameshowfeaturing comedians performing aseries of tricky tasks.

8.30 TheMontreal Comedy Festival. (Mls) Hannah Gadsby hosts her own Comedy GalaatJustFor Laughs Montreal’s40th anniversary festival. Presented by Tommy Little andfeaturingFern Brady, Ryan Hamilton and ZoeCoombs Marr

9.30 Law&Order:SVU (Ma) Alifesaver asks the Special Victims Unit for help when he suspects his boss is preying on hissister

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

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

1.30 Home Shopping (R) 4.30 CBSMornings.

6.30 TheProject. Alook at the day’snews andevents

7.30 TheGraham Norton Show. Chat showwithcelebrity guests

8.30 To Be Advised.

9.30 TheGraham Norton Show. (Ml, R) GuestsincludeDame Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan, Salma Hayek,Bruce Springsteen, Barack Obama and TinieTempah.

10.30 JustFor Laughs Australia. (Mls, R) Hosted by Nick Cody.

11.00 JustFor LaughsUncut. (MA15+ls, R) Hosted by Nikki Osborne.

11.30 TheProject (R)

12.30 TheLateShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning

5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe WorldTonight.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute

(R)Hosted by Grant Denyer

5.00 NBCToday. News and current affairs.

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

5.30[VIC]Infomercials.(PG,R)

ABC TV PLUS (22)

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 PeterRabbit 6.40 Ben And Holly 6.50 Shaun The Sheep 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 Hard Quiz. 8.30 MOVIE: Year

One. (2009,M) 10.05 Doctor Who 10.50 MOVIE:

Pan’sLabyrinth. (2006,MA15+) 12.45am Death In Paradise. 1.45 KillingEve 2.30 Close 5.05 Curious

George 5.25 Miffy’sAdventures Big And Small. 5.35 Late Programs.

9.50 YabYum: The World’sMost Legendary Brothel. 11.15 Late Programs.

6am

The Crow’sEgg.Continued. (2014,PG, Tamil) 7.35 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 9.25 ACat In Paris.(2010

PG) 10.40 Three Colours:Blue.(1993,M,French)

12.25pm We’ll End Up Together.(2019,M,French)

2.55 The MovieShow.

February 11

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 WeekendBreakfast.

9.00 Rage Goes Retro.(PG) 10.30 Rage.(PG)

12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 The Larkins (PG, R) 2.00 Midsomer Murders. (Final, PG,R)

3.35 Joanna Lumley’sUnseen

Adventures. (PG, R)

4.30 TheHumanRevolution (PG, R)

5.25 Further Back In Time

ForDinner (PG, R)

6.25 BetterDate Than Never. (PG,R) Dianne visits one of herbiggest supporters.

7.00 ABCNews. Takesa look at today’stop stories.

7.30 CallThe Midwife. (Mad)

The appearance of ablack raven has Sister Monica Joan seeking advice from aclairvoyant.

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Final, Mav, R)

Afterawoman’s body is found surrounded by ritualsymbols on the eveofaAngel’s Rise Psychic Fayre, DCI John Barnaby and DS Winter find themselves delving into the spiritual world to find the killer

10.00 Unforgotten. (Final, Malv, R)

Theteam narrows downthe suspects.

10.50 Miniseries: ComeHome (Madlsv, R) Part 2of3

11.50 RageGoesRetro (MA15+adlhnsv) Music from the ’80s.

5.00 Rage. (PG)

ABC TV PLUS (22)

6am Children’s

Programs. 7pm Spicks And Specks. 7.30 Whose

Line Is It Anyway? 8.15 Live At The Apollo 9.00 Russell Howard Stands Up To The World. (Final) 9.45 TheSet 10.20 Doctor Who 11.10 Would I Lie To You? 11.40 Bliss. 12.10am Fleabag. 12.35 Cucumber 1.20 QI. 1.50 Banana. 2.15 Louis

Theroux: Altered States. 3.15 ABC News Update.

3.20 Close 5.05 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs.

10.00 MOVIE: Hunt ForThe Wilderpeople. (2016, PG) 11.45 Arctic Secrets. 12.35pm GoingPlaces

1.35 From The Heart Of Our Nation: ACelebration.

4.35 Songlines On Screen. 4.50 Intune 08 5.50 Going Native 6.20 Kriol Kitchen. 6.50 News. 7.00

Family Rules. 7.30 Black Mamba: Kiss Of Death.

8.30 MOVIE: OnceWere Warriors. (1994,MA15+)

10.15 TheColour Of Justice 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Blue Water Safari. (PG) 10.10 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.05

Paul O’GradyFor The Love Of Dogs: What Happened Next. (Premiere, PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 FigureSkating. European Championships. Highlights. 3.30 Cycling. The Saudi Tour.Highlights. 4.40 SecretScotland. (PGa, R) 5.30 WWII Battles ForEurope (PGaw,R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 TheWorld’sMostBeautiful

Landscapes: Snowdonia. (Premiere) Narrated by Robert Lindsay.

8.30 Portillo In ThePyrenees: A Physical Challenge. (PG) Part 2 of 4. Michael Portillo’s Pyrenean quest continueswith the French High Pyrenees.

9.30 Inside Windsor Castle: Tragedy And Triumph. (PGa, R) Part 1of4.Delves behind thewalls of Windsor Castle and its role in the lives of Queen Elizabeth II and her family

10.25 GreatEscapes With Morgan

Freeman: BelfastBreakout. (Mav, R)

11.15 Atlanta. (Final, Madls, R)

11.55 Mister 8. (Premiere, Mls)

4.30 MastermindAustralia. (R) 5.00 NHK World English NewsMorning. 5.15 France

24 Feature. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

11.00 The Movie Show. Noon

DaveGorman: ModernLifeIsGoodish 2.45 WorldWatch. 4.45 Mastermind Aust. 5.45 Dynamo: MagicianImpossible. 6.40 Adam Eats The 80s.

7.30 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 Woodstock: ThreeDays That Defined AGeneration. 10.20 Glastonbury2022Highlights. 11.30 The X-Files.

2.10am Future Man. 3.15 Late Programs.

6am The Odyssey.Continued.(2016,PG, French) 8.00 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 10.10 Three Colours:White. (1994,M,Polish) 11.50 Monsieur Chocolat.(2016 French) 2pm ACat In Paris. (2010,PG) 3.15 Whisky Galore.(2016,PG) 5.05 Little Men.(2016,PG) 6.40 Ping Pong Summer.(2014,PG) 8.30 Nurse Betty.(2000,MA15+) 10.35 SleepingBeauty.(2011, MA15+) 12.30am Late Programs.

Sunday, February12

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 WeekendBreakfast.

9.00 Insiders 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 The World This Week.(R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia.(R) 2.25 Call TheMidwife. (PGa, R) 3.25 Victoria. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs: House Of The Year.(R) 5.00 Australia’s Wild Odyssey. (R)

6.00 Antiques Roadshow.

Hosted by Fiona Bruce

7.00 ABC News. Takesalook at today’stop stories.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Return, Mv) Akidnapping ends in murder.

8.30 Vera (Final, PG, R) DCI Vera Stanhope investigates after the body of awoman is washed up on the banks of the River Tyne.

10.00 Farewell Doc Martin. (Ma, R) Abehind-the-scenes look at thefinal instalment.

10.50 Operation Buffalo (Final,Malv,R)

11.50 JustBetween Us (Malns,R)

12.50 LesMisérables. (Mv,R)

1.50 Victoria. (PG,R)

2.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.15 The Recording Studio.(PG, R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 DestinationFlavour China Bitesize. (R) 9.10 Blue WaterSafari. (PG) 10.05 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.05

PaulO’GradyFor The Love Of Dogs: What Happened Next. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Figure Skating. European Championships. Highlights. 4.40 Secrets Of The TowerOfLondon. (PGa, R)

5.30 WWII Battles ForEurope. (PGaw,R)

6.30 SBS WorldNews

7.30 Ancient Egypt By Train: Alexandria. Part 1of4

8.30 DanSnow’sGreatest Discoveries. Part 1of3.Dan Snow explores some of theworld’smost remarkable archaeological discoveries.

9.30 Expedition Bermuda Triangle. (PGalv,R)Investigators takealook at one of modernhistory’smost enduring mysteries, theBermuda Triangle.

11.00 24 HoursInEmergency: SomeoneToLean On. (Ma, R) An elderly woman is rushed to St George’s

12.50 Pandemic 2020 (Ma, R)

4.00 TheSource. (Mal, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize.(R)

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

NBCToday [VIC]HomeShopping.

6.00 DriveTV. (R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair.(R)

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Border Patrol (PG) Customs deal with aLithuanian man who has questionable holiday plans. Arisky item lands at the mail centre.

7.30 MOVIE: Black Panther (2018, Mv,R) Thenewly crowned ruler of theAfrican kingdomofWakanda must defendhis claim to the throne. Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael B. Jordan.

10.25 To Be Advised.

12.10 MOVIE: Daffodils. (2019,Ml, R) Abittersweet love story.Rose McIver,George Mason.

12.30[VIC]HomeShopping.(R)

4.00 GetArty. (R) Ashowcase of artprojects.

5.00 My Greek Odyssey: Karpathos And Kasos. (PG, R)

7TWO (72, 62)

6am Morning Programs.

11.30 The GreatAustralian Doorstep Noon Escape To The Country 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 The Hotel Inspector 5.00 Horse Racing. Inglis Millennium Dayand Family Race Day. 6.00 Border Patrol. 6.30 The Highland Vet. (Premiere) 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 IEscaped To The Country. 9.30 Escape To The Perfect Town. 10.30 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Nine News Saturday

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) Experts help people declutter their lives.

8.30 MOVIE: Godzilla Vs.Kong. (2021, Mav) Fearsome monsters Godzilla and King Kong square off in an epic battle for theages. Alexander Skarsgard, Millie Bobby Brown,Rebecca Hall.

10.45 MOVIE: Species. (1995,MA15+hlsv, R) Scientists chase a half-alien girl.Natasha Henstridge.

12.45 Living On TheCoast (R)

1.10 Australia’s TopTen Of Everything. (PGs, R)

2.00 TheIncredibleJourney

Presents (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop (R)

5.00 TV Shop: HomeShopping. (R) 5.30

Helping Hands. (PG)

9GEM (92,81)

6am Morning Programs.

10.30 MOVIE: The Winslow Boy. (1948) 1pm Rugby League. NRL.Women’s All-Stars. Round1 Maori vIndigenous All Stars. 3.00 RugbyLeague NRL.Men’s All-Stars. Round 1. Maori vIndigenous All Stars. 6.00 Customs. 6.30 KeepingUp Appearances. 7.30 MOVIE: Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit. (2014,M) 9.35 MOVIE: The Thomas Crown Affair. (1999, M) 11.50 Late Programs.

6am Children’s

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGl,R)Tragedy strikes when ahusband and wife are washed off rocks by amassive wave

6.30 To Be Advised

7.30 NCIS: LosAngeles. (Mav)AUS Marine falls ill during atraining mission after an attack by agenetic weapon.

9.30 FBI: International. (Mav) The Fly Team questions an NYPD officer who is under arrest forassaultinthe breakaway Moldovan stateofTransnistria, amid claims thatasex trafficking ring is being concealed by those in power.

11.30 NCIS. (Mv,R)A US Navy officerismurdered.

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30[VIC]Infomercials.(PG,R)

4.00[VIC]HomeShopping.(R)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

SEVEN (7,6) TEN (10, 5) NINE (9,8)

6.00 NBCToday. [VIC]Shopping 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 TheMorning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Dog Patrol.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

8.45 Maternal. (Mal) As Maryam fights to control her anxiety, Catherine weighs up what it will take to progress as afemale surgeon.

9.45 What TheKiller Did Next: Nadine Aburas. (Mav) HostedbyPhilip Glenister

10.45 Born To Kill?Dale Hausner And Samuel Dieteman. (MA15+av)

11.45 AutopsyUSA:George Michael. (Mads, R)

12.45 Dr Harry’sAnimal Encounters (PG,R)

1.00[VIC]HomeShopping.

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today 5.00 SevenEarly News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Nine News Sunday.

7.00 Married At FirstSight. (PGls) It is time for the first commitmentceremony

8.40 60 Minutes Current affairs program, investigating, analysingand uncovering the issuesaffecting all Australians

9.40 NineNews Late. Alook at the latest news and events.

10.10 TheFirst48: DeadlyDispute/ Heart To Heart (Ma) Detectives investigate twomurder cases.

11.05 Manhunt: TheWests. (MA15+, R)

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

12.50 Explore TV (R)

1.20 He Said/She Said. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: HomeShopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Take Two. (R) 5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today

6.30 TheSundayProject. Panellists dissect, digest and reconstitute the daily news, events and hottest topics.

7.30 Australian Survivor Atribe faces what couldbeone of the most catastrophic Tribal Councils everwitnessed.

9.10 NCIS:Hawai’i. (Mv,R)After Tennant and the team are tasked with finding aglobetrottingsocial media star who has beenkidnapped, they find out that she is not the personher husband, or herfollowers,think she is.

10.10 FBI. (Msv,R)The teammusttrack down ashooter targeting detectives from the sameprecinctand unit.

11.00 TheSundayProject (R) Alook at the day’snews.

12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBSMornings.

WorldWatch. 9.00 DestinationFlavour China Bitesize. (R) 9.15 World’sMost Secret Homes. (PG) 10.10 Billy Connolly:Great

1.00 Lucy Worsley:AgathaChristie Mystery Queen. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time 3.00 Vera.(Final, PG, R)

6.00 TheDrum.

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 BackRoads: Tennant Creek, Northern Territory Kurt Fearnley heads to Tennant Creek.

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

9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Paul Barry takesa lookatthe latest issues affecting media consumers.

9.35 Q+A. Public affairs program.

10.35 ABC LateNews.

10.50 TheBusiness (R)

11.05 Midsomer Murders. (Mav, R)

12.40 Father Brown. (Ma, R)

1.25 The Trouble With Maggie Cole. (PG, R)

2.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 One Plus

One. (R) 4.30 TheDrum. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

ABC TV PLUS (22)

Line Is It Anyway? 1.00 Veneno

1.55 Late Programs.

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

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 DarceyBussell’sRoyal Road Trip: Wales Part 4of4

8.30 Monster: TheMysteryOfLoch Ness: TheBirth Of AMonster. Part 1of3.Adetailed exploration of the mystery of the Loch Ness monster

9.30 Secrets Of Playboy: TheShadow Mansions. (MA15+) Alook at how men in Hefner’s innercircle set up “shadow” mansions where women were exploited.

10.20 SBS WorldNewsLate

10.50 Partisan. (Malv) Maud is tormented by her past.

11.45 Mr Mercedes. (MA15+a, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

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

Tuesday, February14

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home AndAway. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) After an exhausting round of auditions, the top 50 face new challenges.

9.15 Starstruck. (PG)The nextfour teams go head-to-head for aplace in thefinal and achance to win the £50,000 prize.Hosted by OllyMurs.

10.30 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.00 Busted In Bangkok. (MA15+as, R) Follows Thailand’stourist policeasthey deal with touristsfrom all over the world.

12.00 MOVIE: Secrets In Suburbia (2017, MA15+a, R) Awoman is betrayed by her friends. Brianna Brown, Joe Williamson.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBCToday. News and current affairs.

5.00 SevenEarlyNews.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Married At FirstSight. (Mls) IntimacyWeek begins.

9.00 BigMiracles. (Malm) Follows 10 Australian couples and singlesontheirjourney to becoming parents with the help of IVF

10.00 Nine News Late. Alook at the latest newsand events.

10.30 New Amsterdam. (Mam)

Iggy tries online dating.

11.20 TheEqualizer. (Mdv,R)

12.10 AlmostFamily (Mas)

1.00 Hello SA (PG)

1.30

6.30

Alook at the

7.30 Australian Survivor In the aftermath of another chaoticTribal Council, thecastawaystry and makesense of what unfolded.

8.40 Would ILie To You? Australia. (Return, Ml) Twoteams, including Rebecca Gibney,LukeMcGregor, Harley Breen and Concetta Caristo,gohead-to-head.

9.40 Ghosts. (PGds) Sam givesrelationship advicetoFreddie,ignoring Hetty’s warning not to get too close to the help

10.10 FBI: MostWanted. (Mv,R) Theteam goes after the vigilante.

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

12.00 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

6am Children’s Programs.

Noon Motor Racing. Formula EC’ship.Hyderabad

E-Prix. H’lights. 1.00 Rivals. 2.00 Full House. 2.30

3rd Rock 3.30 That ’70s Show 4.30 TheNanny

5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 IDream Of Jeannie. 6.00

M*A*S*H. 6.30 Raymond 7.00 YoungSheldon

7.30 RBT.

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

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS WorldNews

7.35 Who Do YouThink You Are? US: Jennifer Grey. (PG) Jennifer Greyexploresher roots.

8.30 Gloriavale: New Zealand’s Secret Cult. (Ma) Examines widespread abuse inside New Zealand’sinfamous Gloriavale Christian Community

10.05 SBSWorld NewsLate.

10.35 Great British Railway Journeys: Oxford To Abingdon. (PG,R)

11.10 Antidisturbios. (MA15+ad)

12.15 Manayek. (MA15+v, R)

1.55 Cacciatore: The Hunter (MA15+dlv,R)

3.55 Mastermind Australia.(R) 5.00 NHK World EnglishNews Morning. 5.30 ANC

PhilippinesThe WorldTonight

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home AndAway. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) After an exhausting roundofauditions, the top 50 face new challenges.

9.15 Quantum Leap (PGalv) Benis transported back to 1879 and the rustic, frontier town of Salvation.

11.15 TheLatest: SevenNews.

11.45 Celebrity Obsessed: Madonna. (MA15+a, R) Examines thephenomenon of stalking.

12.45 Emergency Call. (PGal, R)

1.00[VIC]HomeShopping.(R)

1.15 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 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Married At FirstSight. (Mas) IntimacyWeek continues.

9.00 TheHundred WithAndy Lee. Andy Leeisjoined by apanel of comedians and100 Aussies to explore the fun behind the facts.

10.00 Nine News Late. Alook at the latest news andevents.

10.30 To Be Advised.

11.30 La Brea (Mv,R)

12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.10 It’sAll Greek To Me.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice

Thehosts and guest panellists takea look at the

7.30 Australian Survivor TheSurvivor Auction gives castawaysthe chance to bid on food,advantages and avideo call home.

9.10 NCIS (M, R) The teamisimmersed in the world of food trucks after aman is found frozentodeath in theback of one.

11.00 TheProject (R) The hosts andguest panellists take alook at the day’snews, events and hot topics.

12.00 TheLate ShowWithStephen Colbert (PG) Late-night talk show

1.00 HomeShopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings. Morning news andtalkshow.

Meeniyan garlic festival

BIGGER and bolder flavours are being promised at the upcoming Meeniyan Garlic Festival, with two new varieties of garlic being offered.

The Festival and Hillston varieties are bigger than similar varieties, and packed with amore intense flavour.

The Hillston garlic is are-emergence of variety lost since 1990, and has now been brought back to market by along-standing commercial grower.

The Festival Creole is agood-sized bulb coming originally from Tasmania. Be warned: while it ranges between mild and hot flavoured, it comes with the kicker of whatthe garlic industry euphemistically refers to as ‘delayed-extreme heat’. Now in its fifthyear, the annual MeeniyanGarlic Festival draws in thousands of festival-goersto celebrate the region’s high-qualitygarlic and produce.

The festivalaimstoconnect Gippsland and Melbourne with fine food offerings, great garlic and great produce, making this aone-off opportunity to explore the food and beverage of the wholeregion.

In the Taste of Gippsland section of the festival, visitors can choose from two dishes from two of the region’s finest eateries: The Tinamba Hotel and TheLong Paddock.

ChefGerardPhelan from TheTinamba Hotel and Tanya Bertino, chef and co-founder of The

Long Paddock, willeach preparetwo unique dishes featuring local produce and, of course, garlic.

The Tinamba Hotel was recently awarded a Chef Hat in the 2022Australian Good Food Guide Awards.

Their philosophy is simple: “There’s nothing better than local Gippsland produce, and where possible,wesource everything locally. And we cultivate ahotel garden with fresh herbs and vegetables,producing dishesthat deliver amemorable experience.” The LongPaddock is acritically rated destination restaurant for foodies, travellers and locals in Lindenow.

AntonEisenmengerand Tanya Bertinoonce worked with top chefs in Melbourne and London, and now specialise in seasonal dishes made with local produce, right down to the wine list.

The re-birth of the festival has been made possiblebymoney from Visit Victoria as event partner,together with the support from the Events Gippsland Acquisition Fund -aninitiative of the new regional peak event body ‘Events Gippsland’ and supported by Regional Development Victoria, Latrobe Valley Authorityand local councils, including South Gippsland Shire Council.

Meeniyan Garlic Festival willtakeplace on Saturday, February 18.

For moreinformation,head to the official website: http://meeniyangarlicfestival.com.au/

FARMERS in the MacalisterIrrigationDistrict (MID) are being urged to look out for signs of salinity on theirlandafter three yearsofconsistently high rainfall.

Agriculture Victoria South-East Irrigation Regional Manager, Sarah Killury,saidhigh rainfall over the past three years, including flood and storm activity, had caused the groundwater tabletorise to its highest recorded level since records started in 1996.

“The 2021 calendar year was our wettest year in the MIDsince 1978 based on East Sale Bureau of Meteorologydata, with2020and 2022 also recording higher than average rainfall,” she said.

“Thesehigh rainfall years have resulted in areas of waterlogged soils across the region. Removing excess waterfrom paddocks is critical to managing the ongoing salinity risk.”

Ms Killury said Southern Rural Water’s salinity interception bores were currently operating continuously to manage groundwater levels as much as possible in target areas across the catchment.

“When the soil profile driesout andgroundwater levels fall, salt may be left behind and if left unmanaged, it can impact future production capacity within low-lying areas,” she said.

“We’reencouragingfarmers to be on the lookout for the tell-tale signs of salinity as the soil dries out.

“Signs include achangeinpasture species along check banks, indications of poor pasture or cropgrowth and tip burning of leaves, and the formation of awhite crust over bare ground,” she said.

Ms Killury said salinity management strategies include leaching or flushing salts from the root zone of plants, using drainage options for flood irrigation to ensure water flows on and off paddocks as quickly as possible(appropriate to crop andsoiltype), and using fresh watertoirrigate

“In the long-term, the increasedsalinityrisk highlights the importance of programs that improve water-use efficiency of on-farm irrigation, both now and into the future,” she said.

“Irrigation efficiency reducesrechargetoshallow groundwater systems, reducing the risk of soil and groundwater salinisation.”

Further information on salinity management or flood and storm recovery is available on the Agriculture Victoria website.

For free salinityadvice and watersalinity testing, contact the Agriculture Victoria Irrigation Team in Maffra on 0428 387 869.

Hanging: Dozens of stallholdersare expected at thisyear’s MeeniyanGarlicFestival.

Photosupplied

HIGH TREE TREE SERVICE TR

THE qualityofthe work at High Tree Tree Services is as high at the trees theyfell.

High Tree Tree Services is not onlycapable of leaving customerssatisfied with howtheir garden has been pruned, but being reliable is amain priority.

“We’rea very friendly, reliable service.Customersare very happywith the end result,” owner RickKruyt said.

The business startedin1990, and today, Rickremains at the helm with about 40 years’ experience in the industry.

As afamily-oriented enterprise, Rick’sson Daniel will eventually take over the operations

High Tree Tree Services is based in both Trafalgar and Pakenham, and cuts trees

MondaytoFriday, butthe staff aremorethan happytooffer quotes on the weekend if need be

Services include pruning and

removaloftrees and shrubs, stump removal, hedge maintenance,mulching of gardensand supplying mulch.

Offering that expertise at a reasonable rate and efficientlyis

whereHigh Tree Tree Services stands out.

“Webasicallyalwayshave customer satisfaction,”Ricksaid.

“Wealwaysliketoshowthe customersthrough the work

we have done to make sure that theyare happy. If there’s something we’veoverlooked, we’remorethan happytocome and correct it.”

In

NOTE:| thatadpaymentis required prior to publication unless afullaccount is held with the

classifieds@ lvexpress.com.au

Mail:

Latrobe Valley Express, “Attention Classifieds’’ 21 George Street, Morwell 3840

Most

Newsagents act as our agents and will accept your advertisements up until the same deadlines as above

Mastercard or Visa

AGISTMENT

For one horse, Traralgon West, water available. Phone 0402 631 343.

to place your classified in our WEDNESDAY PUBLICATIONLivestock •

for

Hire/Sale

MALTESE XShih-Tzu pups, 2M, 14 weeks, vet checked, vacc., wormed, m/c 956000014641489/ 15007400, MB153988 $2200 ea. 0420 389 773.

Landscaping Mulch

Beautify your garden. Bulk quantity available, $25m3. Phone 0412 613 443 or 1800 468 733.

Satellite elec. scooter with canopy, rain curtains, other extras, hardly used $3000 o.n.o. Ph 0474 030 548.

ROAD BIKE

Giant Ultegra 10spd, ex. cond., just serviced, new saddle, with accessories $750. 0417 655 543.

TRARALGON, 1Farina Crt, Sat. 8am -2pm. Planter boxes,kitchen items, clothing, pump, bric-a-brac, new and used clothing, dining suite 6-8 seater.

TRARALGON, 4/28 George St, Sat. 9am-1pm. We have baby items, furniture, portable aircons, consoles and games, home décor and more.

TRARALGON, 58 Henry St, Sat. 7.30-12. No early starters. Tools, kitchenware, homewares, treasures, tins, barware, books, CD's, shoes, old phones. No junk.

8Sherwood

to ADVERTISERS and RESPONDENTS

Voicemail

Saturday, 4th March $45pp. Jaybee Tours/Hazelwood Coaches 0428 223 361.

friend

EXPRESS CLASSIFIEDS

HALF PRICE

Tropical &Goldfish

Tanks with 2Goldfish $20. Phone 0411 604 704. Public Notices • SELF INFLATING 4WD mattress, queen size, soft velour top, comes in carry bags. As new paid $170.00, sell $100. Ph 0459 223 426. TRARALGON,

•

1/7/2008 -5/2/2021

Another long hard year goes by since that sad day. There is not aday pass where you are not thought of or loved. Always in our hearts and always remembered R.I.P. little mate. Alan and Dennise XXX.

For Sale

•

BUDGET BLINDS

Lenny 0418 514 132

NEWSPRINT REEL ENDS

Price: $11 GST incl. Available at the Latrobe Valley Express Office 21 George Street Morwell

5135 4444

SOFA bed, quality 3seater couch, trampoline base innerspring mattress, beige velour, very good condition $380. Phone 0422 399 012.

TREADMILL, Horizon Adventure, 3plus model, good condition, bought new at Mega Sports Moe, manual and tools incl., $500. Ph 0409 919 954

Garage Sales

•

MIRBOO North, 65 Pines Rd, Sat. 8am-2pm. Farm/ house sold! Household goods, farming equip., too much to mention, something for everyone!!

MOE, 76 Wirraway St, Saturday, 8am -1pm. Dining table and chairs, couch, kid's clothes, single bed and trundle with mattresses, bric-a-brac, too much to mention.

MORWELL, 20 Spry St, Saturday, 8am -2pm. Furniture, tools, household items, baby items, CDs DVDs and more. No early callers.

WHY NOTHOLD AGARAGE SALE and TURN YOUR CLUTTER INTO

With an audience of over 76,000 you’re guaranteed to reach MORE locals than Facebook

ADVERTISEYOUR

GARAGE SALE IN THE EXPRESS CLASSIFIEDS 5135 4455

Responsibility

PLEASE CHECK YOUR AD

Please check your ad on the firstday and bring any errors to the attention of the Classifieds Department immediately

The LatrobeValley Express makes everyefforttoavoid errors. We regret that we cannot be responsible forany errors beyond the first day if you fail to bring it to ourattention. No allowances can be made for errorsnot materially affecting the effectiveness of thead. Position cannot will not be guaranteed. All claims foradjustment of credit must be madewithin seven days afterbilling date We reservethe right to revise or restrict any ad we deem objectionable and to change the classificationwhen necessaryto conform to the policyof this newspaper In the event an ad is omitted from publication, we assume no liabilityfor such omission.

Wanted

Greetings*

From as little as $13.50*

Show your love on 14th Februaryinthe LV Express Classifieds with your personalised messageTHEY MAKE AREALLYNICEKEEPSAKE

All Valentine’s notices must be received by 3pm Monday 6th February

Valentine’s Day Notice Forms will be at Moe Nextra Tattslotto, Moe, Traralgon Seymour Street Newsagency, Traralgon and at our office Latrobe Valley Express in Morwell or you can call the Classified Department

*Logo $3 extra Phone 5135 4455

GP1652833

Public Notices • Public Notices • Public Notices • Garage Sales • Agistment • For Sale • Adult Services • classif ieds@lvexpress.com.au MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM-5PM Classifieds 51354455 The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 8February, 2023 —Page 29

Door Installer

You

DELIVERERS WTD

BRANCH MANAGER REQUIRED

The Latrobe Valley Express welcomes photos of your newest arrival

Parents are welcome to email a copy of your newborn photos for publication to our editorial staff - news@lvexpress com au with the subject line baby photo’

Please include the following details: Baby’s first and middle name/s Baby s surname D O B Mum s maiden name

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR APLANNING PERMIT

The land affected by the application is located at: 24 Meridian Drive, TRARALGON

The application is for apermit for: Development of land with two(2) dwellings on alot,subdivision of land into two(2) lots of variation of restrictive covenant

The permit applicant is: Millar &Merrigan PtyLtd.

The application number is: 2022/278

Adecisiononthe application will not be made before: 17 February2023.

Youcan view the application:

Online: www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Property/Planning/Planning

Assessment/Find a current application or application on notification

In person: ServiceCentre, 34-38 KayStreet,Traralgon

Scan the QR Code

Youcan makeanobjection in writing to:

latrobe@latrobe.vic.gov.au

Latrobe City Council, PO Box264,Morwell 3840

Your objection must include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. The responsible authority must make acopyof everyobjection available at its office for any person to inspectduring office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of adecision on the application.

If you object,the responsible authority will tell you it’s decision

GP1652026

EXPERIENCED TRUCK

Currently we have afull time permanent position available for an experienced Truck Driver.

● HC driver's licence required

● Tipping experience preferred

● Clean driving record

● Reliable, punctual and self motivated Please send resume to: valleyearthmoving@valleygroup.com.au

SUPAGAS is seeking ahighly motivated and experienced Branch Manager to lead and manage our dynamic team located in our Traralgon Branch.

Minimum 5years' experience. Full time secure position. Competitive base salary +super. KPI'S + bonuses, rewards and recognition program.

Requirements include valid driver's licence and pre-employment medical.

Looking for anew challenge and career advancement? WE WANT YOU!!!

Contact Supagas on hr@supagas.com.au or 0460 820 844

MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTANT (.6FTE) Fixed Term

If you areanextraordinaryperson with an enquiring mind andhunger to learn, want to join adiverse team, be well rewardedwith great salary, perks and benefits, then keep reading!

About us

LoyYang Bisanelectricity generator located in the picturesque Latrobe Valley currently supplying 20% of Victoria’s power.Weare owned by Chow TaiFook Enterprises (CTFE) and belong to the Alinta Energy family,agrowing and innovativeenergymarketdisrupter

We arefocused on increasing plant performance, efficiency and flexibility and seek people who canturninspiration intoideas, andideas intogame-changing solutions.

We arecommitted to increasing workforce diversity and creating an environment wherepeople with new ideas feel empowered to speak up and explorewhat is possible.

We constantly strive to understand and meet broad community expectations regarding environmental management,health, safety and good corporate citizenship

About the opportunity

2-year fixed term opportunity, commencing in early 2023.

.6 FTEwith potential for additional hours over peak periods.

Work with teams of experienced, passionate people eager to mentor top performers.

Develop highly valued skills transferrable to other rolesand industries. Competitivesalaryand other benefits. Generous superannuation, contributions above the superannuation guarantee. Flexible working arrangements to balance your work, life and play. Above awardannual leave entitlements.

What you’ll do

Provide regular management and financial information to meet reporting requirements. Preparereconciliations and associated analysis,review trial balances, and prepareaccountreconciliation summaries.

Assist in thecorporate reportingprocess includingdata input,variance analysis, keyperformance indicators and intragroup balances, for budget, actual and forecasts. Assist businessmanagersinunderstanding operating and capital expenditure, including preparation of cost reports, accruals, budget inputs, forecast and variance analysis.

Support designated departments with generalaccounting/financialmatters.

What you’ll need

Detailed knowledge of accounting theoryand practice, and relevant accounting standards.

Well developed skills in numeracy and proficient in accounting applications. Self-motivated anddiligentwith excellent organisational and communication skills.

Tertiaryqualifications in commerce or accounting and CPAorCA(or working towardsthis)

Relevant experience into costingand financial analysis well regarded.

If this soundslikeyou, don’t ignorethis opportunity, makesureyou:

Apply via our careers page www.loyyangb.com.au/careers

Position closes Wednesday 15th February 2023.

LoyYang B–powering your career!

LoyYang Bwelcome applications from people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people withdisability. We will provide reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilitythroughout the recruitmentprocess. If you identify as aperson withdisabilityand requireadjustments to the application, recruitment, selection and/or assessment process, please advise via the above email and indicate your preferred method of communication (email or phone) so we can keep in touch and meet your needs.

A billboard of job vacancies is delivered right to the door every Monday to potential candidates

Keepingyou in touch withthe

Classifieds 5135 4455

CareersatLatrobe

Would you like to deliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Morwell, Traralgon, Moe, Newborou gh and Churchill? Please apply to the Circulation Manager 0456 000 541. Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome.

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE:

Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns. Our

Vacant columns are reserved for advertisements which carry aspecific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for `Business Opportunities' and `Training Courses' and `Employment Services' should be submitted under those headings. Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trades Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.

5135 4455

LatrobeCityCouncilhasexcitingopportunitiesforenthusiasticand forward-thinkingindividualswithapassionforprovidingexcellent servicestoourcommunity

• Property Officer- Permanent&Temporary Full Time

• CoordinatorCommunications& rCommunications & Engagement-gagement-Permanent Full Time

• SeniorHorticultureExperienced

Maintenance Employee - oyee -Permanent Full Time

• Experienced Maintenance Employee -Tree iencedMaintenance

Maintenance - intenance -Temporary Full Time

Forfurtherinformationincludinghow toapply,positiondescriptionsand applicationclosingdates,pleasevisitour websitewww.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

Pleasenotesuccessfulapplicantswillbe requiredtoapplyforandsatisfactorilyobtain aNationalPoliceCheckandWorkingwith

ChildrenCheck

www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/careers

TAXI DRIVERS WANTED MORWELL

Weekdays/Nights/Weekend Shifts available. We need drivers. Training supplied, assistance to get relevant licence provided. Modern safe dispatch system in all cars. Apply to: morwelltaxis1@gmail.com

Deliverer Wanted YARRAGON d

Would you liketodeliverthe Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Yarragon.

Please apply to:

The Circulation Manager 0456 000541

Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit. Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted.

deliverers also welcome

URGENT Deliverers Wanted TRARALGON, MORWELL and NEWBOROUGH

Would you liketodeliver theLatrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesdayand/or Wednesdayafternoons in Traralgon, Morwell and Newborough.

Please apply to:

The Circulation Manager 0456 000541

Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit. Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted.

Adult deliverers also welcome

Audit and Risk Committee, External member -Call for Expressions of Interest

Gunaikurnai Traditional Owner Land Management Board's (GKTOLMB) has aposition for an external member on our Audit and Risk Committee (ARC). Information about the Board can be found at https://gunaikurnai.org/out-country/ joint-management/

The ARC advises the Board on its financial, governance and risk compliance obligations. People with knowledge and experience of the Victorian government governance framework (or similar), risk management, or membership of CPA Australia or the Institute of Chartered Accountants (Australia) will be highly regarded.

Enquiries, including meeting frequency, sitting fees and Committee Charter, or for aconfidential discussion please contact the Board's Executive Officer in the first instance at eo@gktolmb.org.au.

Interested persons are invited to email an Expression of Interest, together with aCVtothe Board's Executive Officer, by 17 February 2023.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are encouraged to apply

Cash in Hand! d!

Letusdothe hardwork for you -advertise in both print and on-line

It’s easy, just call 5135 4455 4 45 5 55 5 and a annd put an ad in the paper today! ayy!

Motor Mart

Cars •

CASH FOR CARS

NISSAN Patrol GU 1999,

2.8 turbo, recon. injector pump, new glow plugs, great towing, b/bar, snorkel, CB, dash and rev. cameras, PMA-966 $11,500 o.n.o. 0427 740 727.

TOYOTA Fortuner GXL, 2016, solar panel, roof-rack, duel battery, fridge/draw system, ex/cond. r.c.w. 147,000kms,1IT-3AJ. $146,000. 0409 436 578.

CHRISTOU (Sofocleous)

Iphigenia (Fiona).

Passed away peacefully at the Royal Freemasons Aged Care Moe on 3February 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Aged 99 years

Dearly loved wife of Elias (dec.).

Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Donna and Nick, Stala and Zig, Goula and George, Thoula, Adon, Chris and Bev, and Mario. Adored Yaya to all her grand, great grand and great great grandchildren.

CHRISTOU, Fiona.

Our dear Mum, Yaya and Great Yaya, You will always be in our hearts and memories

FORD ute 2008, 1tonner, auto, cruise, air cond., LPG, receipts, tool boxes, needs reg'n, Vin. JGCM8A63253 $6600 o.n.o. 0412 325 723.

MAZDA BT-50

2014, 115,000ks, reg ABB-353. $30,500. Ph: 0490 069 116

Responsibility PLEASECHECK YOUR AD

Pleasecheckyour ad on the first day andbring any errors to the attention of the Classifieds Department immediately TheLatrobeValley Express makes everyefforttoavoid errors We regret that we cannot be responsible forany errors beyond the first day if you fail to bring it to ourattention No allowances can be madefor errors not materially affecting the effectiveness of the ad. Positioncannot will not be guaranteed. All claims foradjustment of credit must be made within seven days afterbilling date. We reservethe right to revise or restrict anyadwedeem objectionable and to change the classification when necessary to conform to the policy of this newspaper In the event an ad is omittedfrom publication, we assume no liability forsuch omission

Education &Training

Personals

Valentine's Greetings •

BEAUTIFUL Rose Petal!

Loving you is great!

You're my everything, thank you for being such a wonderful soul, cuddles from you are just delightful. Love always. XOXOXO

Deaths •

ANDERSON, John Malcolm. 1/2/1984 -18/1/2023. Beloved son of Lucia and Malcolm Anderson. John shared his life with his loving partner Lauren, and adored dogs Mozart and Leah. His beautiful music and adventurous spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

BEATH, Trevor Roy. Aged 77 years

Passed away peacefully at the Bundaberg Base Hospital 30 January 2023.

Dearly beloved husband of Olga. Loved brother of Joyce (dec.), Charles (dec.), Veronica, Dawn (dec.) and Ken. Much loved father of Annette, Cheryl and Duane. Loved father in-law of Phil and Robert.

Loved Pop of eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Train to become aPersonal Care Worker in Traralgon

Did you know that there are localtraining opportunitiesthatcouldlead to ameaningful job in the rewarding Aged Care sector?

Register to find out more about becoming aqualified Aged Care and/or Home Care Worker and the career opportunities in the in- demand Aged Care sector.

Training will be delivered one day per week in Traralgon.

Fees $200 or $120 concession.

Training will be delivered onsite and in association with Yallambee.

All applicants will require:

● Satisfactory Police Check

● Green Medicare Card

● Evidence of (3) Covid vaccinations

● To attend the information and enrolment session

Please contact us to find out more and book into the Information session.

If you are eligible for Skills First Funding and access your Skills First entitlement this training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.

For further information send your contact details to:

Libby Odwyer

Phone: 0438 878 725

Email: lodwyer@pta.edu.au

RTO Code 21837

Caravans

Tired and weary you made no fuss, You tried so hard to stay with us. You will always be loved and remembered.

EVERNEW, 16ft pop-top. 2002, double bed, full annexe, cover, porta potty, TV, bike rack, very clean and neat. $16,500. Phone 0438 592 129

Royal Flair Pop Top 2003, single beds, full annexe, TV, m/wave, etc. always garaged $17,000. Ph 0413 300 655.

Selling avan?

Don't

Love Chris, Bev, Shelley, Mitchell, Kate, Rhys, Stalla, Jaxon, Mason, Hunter, Charlotte, Anastasia and Alexander.

CHRISTOU, Iphigenia (Fiona). Passed away peacefully 3rd February 2023.

Aged 99 years

Our dearest Yiayia, Though your smile is gone forever and your hands we cannot touch we still have so many memories of the one we loved so much.

Rest in peace Yiayia

Love from your grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchild. Natalie, Lou, Carly, Jacob, Jordan, Isabelle and Saige.

McCLURE, Robert William. Passed away peacefully at home in Moe on 31 January 2023. Aged 65 years Loved father and fatherin-law of Jason and Martine. Son of the late David and Ila McClure, Brother and brother-in-law of Anne and Garry Murphy, and loved uncle to their families.

McGRATH, Barry John.

Late of Trafalgar. Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at St John of God Hospital, Berwick on 2February 2023. Dearly loved husband of Pat (dec.). Loving father and fatherin-law of Louana and Peter, Darren and Sam, Glenn and Louise.

Cherished Pa of Lisa and Michael, Jack and Madi, Cam and Mel, Haiden and Sonja, Jess and Jade, Lachlan and Gemma.

Adored Pa Barry of Bobbie, Ollie, Indi, Skyla and Hamish.

Mum and Dad reunited Forever in our hearts

POWER, Bruce Francis. Passed away suddenly, but peacefully, surrounded by family and loved ones at Latrobe Regional Hospital on Tuesday, 31 January 2023.

62 years young Adored soulmate of Bronwyn and aforever father and best friend of Annabelle and Madeleine. Father-in-law of Brendan and Anthony. Loved grandad of Lore and Evaliah. Brother and brother-in-law of Therese and Trevor, Marie and Brian and Nikki and Jamie. So much love so little time

RILEY, Mr Maurice Service No. PKX749262

The President, Committee, Staff and Members of the Moe RSL Sub-Branch deeply regret the passing of their esteemed Service Member and friend, Maurice. We offer our sympathy to all his family. LEST WE FORGET

SMITH, Raymond Albert (Smithy). Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at home on 1st February 2023. Aged 78 years Loving son of Albie and Dorrie Smith (both dec.). Loved and loving husband of Barb for over 52 years. Adored and treasured dad to Donna, Travis and Aroha, Andrea and Matt, Ingrid and Fed. Adored and very much loved Poppy to Maddy, Kado, Hazza, Em, Dylsy, Sassy, Sebastian, and Damo. Loved brother to Marg and Russell, and Garry. 'Packed his swag and his billy and gone fishing with his mates'

SMITH, Ray. Memories of our dear brother Ray, are our dearest treasure to love and keep in our hearts forever. You were ours and we loved you so deeply. Remembering you always, forgetting you never, now resting in God's care. Your loving sister Marg and brotherin-law Russell. Loved and respected Uncle Ray of Nicole and Megan, and their families. Always so caring and kind Rest In Peace Ray, Iamhonoured to say you're my brother. You lived your life to the fullest, with so much care and love for others. Iwill cherish the memories. Till we meet again. Forever loved Garry.

Funeral Service at the Bundaberg Crematorium, Cummings Rd, Branyan, FRIDAY (10 February 2023) 10am. Livestream available.

BEATH, Trevor Roy.

Passed away 30/1/2023. Treasured brother-in-law of Sandra and Pash (dec.).

Loved uncle of John, Michael and Tamara, and families. Rest now.

Forever in our hearts

BERTOLI, Bryan Geoffery. 29/7/1938 -5/2/2023.

Bryan passed away peacefully at Cooinda Lodge, after battling a long illness.

Beloved husband of Kathleen for 59 years, And much-loved father, and father-in-law of, Michael and Fiona, Stephen, Dale, Kerry and Nadija.

And adored grandfather and great grandfather.

Awonderful husband, father and grandad to all his family.

NOBLE (Walsh, nee Jenkins), Beryl Frances. 20/2/1935 -5/2/2023.

Passed peacefully at Latrobe Valley Village, Newborough.

Much loved wife of Ronald Walsh (dec.) and David Noble (dec.). Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law to Julie and Neil (dec.), David and Jeanette, Bruce and Anita, Stuart and Tina. Loved Mum, Grandma and Great Grandma. Alife fully lived and fondly remembered, will be sadly missed by all.

For Funeral details please visit: www.nielsenfunerals.com.au

SUTTON, Adam John.

27/8/1987 -31/1/2023.

Tragically taken. Much loved partner, father, son, grandson, brother, uncle, and mate. Partner of Krista, superdad of Darcy and Pippa. Son of Ray and Leanne. Brother of Brett and Aurora, Dean and Nick, Paul and Marlee, Jarryd and Aaron, Mikayla and Will. Uncle of Indya, Jasmine, Chelsea, Lincoln, and Adelina, Judd and Jagger, Angus and Lena. Mate to many.

Forever loved, forever young, never forgotten Heartbroken doesn't even come close

For Funeral details please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

SUTTON, Adam John.

Result of accident.

31/1/2023, aged 35 years.

Much loved grandson of Max and Gwen (dec.). You made me so proud of how successful and respected you are in the farming community.

Rest peacefully. Love Pa.

Scratcher, Cherished memories of the good old days that we spent together.

Forever missed, remembered and loved

Uncle Mark and Aunty Vic XXX. You were one of akind

We will shed tears for you but smilefromthe memories of you. The twinkle in your eye, cheeky smile and laugh will be impossible to forget.

Forever in our hearts cousin Rang. Love Krystle, Dave, Charlotte, Jessie and Henley XXX.

Ranga, you were one of a kind. Iwill definitely cherish our childhood memories together. So many funny stories to tell. Latrobe River runs will never be the same mate. Say "G'day" to Nan and give her abig hug for us.

Cousins Forever Love Justin, Roxy, Jai and Finn XXX.

Ranga, we weren't just cousins but great mates. Memories of our childhood and the antics we got up to at the sale yards will always stay with me. Iwill miss our snapchats. Miss you mate. Love Matt, Nicola, Arlo and Willow XXX.

SUTTON, Adam.

Itaught you about pig and calf markets. You taught me what mates are for. Will miss you mate Love Boysey.

SWAN, Laurence (Flo). The President and members of the Lions Club of Mount Erica regret the passing, on Friday, 27 January, of our former member Flo Swan. Our sincere condolences to Julie and to all those he loved. Agreat loss to the Erica/Rawson Community.

WALLACE, John. Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, 31 January 2023. Son of James and Jane (both dec.). At Rest

WELLS (Teopista), Myrna Arbues. Passed away Saturday, 4February 2023.

Aged 86 years Dearly loved wife of Sjouke (Simon). Loved stepmother of John, mother-in-law to Valda. Special Lola (Grandma) to Shingisai.

Loved sister and aunt to Marlene and Craig.

Private Funeral Held

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

MORWELL 5134 4937

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

Funerals •

ANDERSON.

The Funeral Service for Mr John Anderson will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway, Traralgon on MONDAY (13 February 2023) commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of the Service the Funeral will leave for the Traralgon Cemetery, Gippsland Memorial Park. Followed by refreshments at the Oak room.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

BERTOLI.

The Funeral Service for Family and close friends of Mr Bryan Bertoli will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue Moe on Thursday (9 February 2023) commencing at 1.30pm.

Bryan's Service will be livestreamed to view the livestream please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on livestreaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

MOE 5126 1111

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CHRISTOU.

The Funeral Service for Mrs Iphigenia Christou will be held at the Greek Orthodox Church, Elgin Street Morwell on THURSDAY (9 February 2023) commencing at 1.30pm.

The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Yallourn Cemetery.

Iphigenia's Service will be livestreamed, to view the livestream please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on live streaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

McCLURE. The Funeral Service for Mr Robert McClure will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue Moe on THURSDAY (9 February 2023) commencing at 11am.

The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Yallourn Cemetery.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

McGRATH. Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mr Barry McGrath will be celebrated at St John's Catholic Church, Waterloo Rd, Trafalgar on FRIDAY (10 February 2023) at 11am.

The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of Mass for the Trafalgar Cemetery.

SMITH. Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mr Raymond Smith will be offered at St Michael's Catholic Church, Church St, Traralgon WEDNESDAY (8 February 2023) at 1.30pm.

At the conclusion of Mass the Funeral will leave for the Traralgon Cemetery, Gippsland Memorial Park. Ray's Funeral will also be livestreamed, please visit the below website and go to Ray's notice for instructions.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

SUTTON, Adam John.

The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mr Adam John Sutton will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy Traralgon, NEXT FRIDAY (17 February 2023) commencing at 11am.

In Memory of Adam, you are welcome to wear jeans and casual wear. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Royal Children's Hospital or Helimed One would be appreciated, envelopes available at the Chapel. Adam's service will also be livestreamed. For livestream instructions please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

WALLACE. AGraveside Service for the late Mr John Wallace will be held at Moe Cemetery, WEDNESDAY (8 February 2023) commencing at 2pm. Latrobe Valley Funerals

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

Birthday Memoriam

SCOTT, Adam John.

7/2/1967 -2006. In memory of our much loved son, AB. Beautiful memories of asoftly spoken boy with awicked sense of humour.

Forever Missed Jan and Bill Scott.

Bereavement

Thanks •

More than local Funeral Directors

POWER.

The Funeral Mass and Committal for Cremation for the repose of the soul of Mr Bruce Francis Power will be offered at St Michaels Catholic Church, Church Street Traralgon, on FRIDAY (February 10, 2023) at 1.30 pm.

Family and friends are requested to bring a special note (for Bruce's eyes only) to place on his coffin at the end of the Service. Please refrain for wearing black, as this was Bruce's wish.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

COOK, Raymond John. 1941-2023.

The Cook family would like to thank all family and friends for the phone calls, cards, flowers, well wishes, baked food and all that came to Ray's Funeral.

Abig thank you to Home Based Nursing, Dr Worboy's and Latrobe Valley Funeral Services. Sincere thanks to you all. Gwenda and family.

RODGERS, Donald John 1941 -2022

The Rodgers family would like to sincerely thank all family and friends for their kind thoughts, cards, beautiful flowers and on going support following the passing of Don. It has all been very much appreciated.

Special thanks to Dr Ian Webb for your many years of care, Jackie from the Cancer CareCentre, Palliative Care Nurses, LRH Bass Ward staff and the wonderful staff at St Hilarys.

Thank you also to Julie and Steve Harwood for Funeral arrangements and Carly Maling for providing alovely Service.

Finally, thank you to the Morwell Bowls Club for catering for the wake.

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Locals back racing at Sale Turf Club

HORSERACING

By TOM HAYES

FOLLOWINGmonthsofdeliberation,the Sale Turf Club was back in operation with the Sale Quality Kids Day Out on Sunday (February 5).

The nine-race meet was presented to aSoft 5 track, following days of downpour, but the days’ weather was an improvement as the track progressed to aGood 4after Race 3.

The Race 1Ladbrokes Punter Assist Maiden Plate ran over 1103 metres was won by Tiz Enuf for Flemington’s Anthony and Sam Freedman.

The short-priced favourite was quick to find the front from the jump, leading the entire race.

As it looked likeother horses may make their move, Tiz Enuf found another gear to kick ahead and win by two lengths.

Race 2’s Lords CleaningService Maiden Plate (1003m) was expertly won by Belvago for Cranbourne’s Robbie Griffiths and Mathew de Kock.

Just like the previous race, Belvago tookthe lead from the jump and never gave it up.

While other horses fought on the final straight, it allowed him to stay steadily in front, winning by just over alength.

Dempster for Sale’s Susie Wells was the best of the localrunners finishing in fifth, whileJust Ralphfor Sale’s Bill Wood came eighth.

The Race 3Cabinet Connections Maiden Plate (1203m) was won by Campania Volpe for Cranbourne’s Adrian McGregor.

The favourite, Rampant Lion, held thepaceof the race past the 1000m mark, while the eventual winner, paying $16, was second last.

With about 200m to go, Campania Volpe finally burst toward the front, taking the lead at the final moment to win by aneck.

Race 4’s Bennett Electrical Maiden Plate (1203m) was won by another Cranbourne local, Contanti forMichael Kent.

Catching Clouds for Moe’s Pauland Tracey Templeton took an early lead, stretching out to nearly three lengths.

At the 100m mark, bothStarHonour and Contanti became the front runners, both more than five lengths ahead of third.

Contanti held on to win by just under alength, while Atomoscar for Moe’s Catherina Martindale came third by anose.

NightEruption for Sale’s Paul Worthington was the next best local runner, coming eighth, meaning the remaining four local runners filtered between ninth and 14th.

The Race 5Macwaste Group MaidenPlate (1407m) was won by Hanibal Hero for Heath Hill’s Brendan McCarthy.

Local debutant, Snowgun for Cliff Murray, ran particularly well holding the pace, yet fell off toward the end of the race.

Hanibal Hero raced justoff pacebehind the front runners, allowing himself to pounce on the straight.

He held on to win by half alength to Distorted Mission, who also finished fast.

The best of the localswas Classic Story for Sale’s Heather Stephens, who was anose away from third, finishing fourth while paying $151. Noortoomany for Sale’s Rebecca Kelly finished strongly in fifth while the other three locals crossed the line in 10th position or lower.

Race 6’s Simic Betta Home Living Sale Handicap BM58 (1407, was the final race of the meet with no locals, yet provided athriller.

Following aphoto finish, it was found that Reo for Cranbourne’s Richard Laming won by anose to the favourite, Diddley Squat.

Diddley Squat held firm at the front of the pack, before beginning to sprint after the final bend.

Reo joined Diddley Squat and the two wentstride for stride up until the line providing agrandstand finish

TheRace 7Viatek Handicap BM58 (1103m)was comfortably taken out by Zionfor Flemington’s Nick Ryan.

I’m Cheeky for Sale’s Bill Wood was the pacesetter overthe courseofthe race, leadingupuntilthe 200m mark, before falling to the rear and finishing 10th.

Street Swaggerfor Sale’s Troy Kilgower did the opposite, sitting at the rear of the pack before making alateforward lunge, finishing seventh.

Zion began to overtake the leading pack in the final 400m, jetting ahead with 200m to go, before winning by over two lengths.

Race 8’s John Elliman Real Estate Sale Quality Handicap BM78 (1203m), wasanother comfortable win, this time it was Jungle Jim for Flemington’s Michael Moroney.

Jungle Jim had the bestjump of the lot,allowing him to take an early lead, joined by Najem Suhail, thepair had five lengths on the rest.

Justasthey prepared to take on the final straight, Jungle Jim proved why he was the favourite, stepping three lengths clear to take out acomfortable victory.

APenny Spent for Sale’s Stephens ran at the front of the midfield but as she turned around the final bend, she began to lose positions, finishing eighth.

For the final race of the day -the Race 9Ladbroke

It! Handicap BM58 (1724m), six of the 12 runners in the field were local, upgrading the chance of a winner at last.

Alocal winner was finally victorious after nineraces in Sale,whenHigh Done for Moe’s Templeton’s won by ahead.

Just like alot of previous runners on the day, High Done had agreat start from the barrier, leading the field around the course.

Alongside High Done in the early stages was fellow Moe-trained horse,Acey Deucy, the two going two lengths clear of the pack at the 800m mark.

As they turned onto the main straight,Acey Deucystarted to drop,while AlbanianEagle launchedher attack, comingalongsideHighDone.

But High Done repelled the attack, keeping his lead, holding on by ahead to win.

High Done hasfinally achievedreward for his efforts,after improvingasoflate; toward the end of 2022, he couldn’tfind the front, but within the last monthortwo, he has found form with two placings.

The next best-placed local horsewas Not A Problem for Moe’sAllison Bennett,who climbed to seventh after settling at the rear.

Sale Turf Club will host its next event -Wednesday Racing -onFebruary22, whilethe next local meet is in Moe today (Wednesday, February 8) as the MoeRacing Club holds atransferred meet from Ballarat.

Both Traralgon clubsenjoy midweekDiv 1wins

LAWN BOWLS

STRZELECKI NORTH

MIDWEEK PENNANT

BY MICHAEL HOLROYD

DIVISION 1

DROUIN travelled to Morwell and came home with agood win as Sheryl Atkinson and her rink of Mary and Les Firth and Mark Atkinson had a 26-16 win over Judy Tumney and her rink of Helen Cook, BobSkinner and Keith Gadsby to be the only winning Drouin rink.

For the home team, Kerry Wright and her rink of Bill Tumney, Irene Biggs and Kevin Pigdon had a26-18 win over Denise Hamilton and her rink of Ron Westrup, JanAubrey and Dennis Throup. Rita Reddiex and Maureen Leighton tied 18-18 leaving Drouin the winner by 2shots.

 DROUIN 13-62 DEFEATED MORWELL 3-60

NEWBOROUGH travelled to Traralgon RSL and the home side was too good, with Marianne Hodson and her rink of Adriana Eaton, Nathan Forester and Dave Hodson defeating Heather Mooney and her rink of Denise Ryan, Peter Policha and Rod Lewis 23-11, Elaine Muir and her rink of Titch Hore, Julie Sutcliffeand Jeff Blythman had a16-15 win over Jo-Anne Michaels and her rink of Phil Marston, Mary Whelan and Ryan Marston.

For the visitors, Joan Goldie and her rink of Bob Goldie,JeffWetzel and Julie Jackson defeated Margaret Gibbins and her rink of Margaret Morley, Ron Osler and Max Gibbins 20-19.

 TRARALGON RSL 14-58 DEFEATED NEWBOROUGH 2-46

TRARALGON travelledtoWarragul and came home with agood win.

Paddy Francis and her rink of Carolyn Roscholler, Barry Fernanceand Bill Francis won 25-13against Gabrielle Draisma and her rink of Ian Belling, Margaret Ratcliffe and Jim Power.

Kathy Smilesand her rink of ChrisThomas, Ken Mooneyand RosieLorenz had a23-19 win over Pat Hammond and her rink of John Vickerman, Gaye and Renn and Graeme Davis.

For the home team, Janette Gallasch and her rink of Matt Draisma, Kerri Currie and Peter Gallasch won 17-15 against Pat Trewin and her rink of Elaine Swan, Ron Baker and Garry Trewin

 TRARALGON 14-63 DEFEATED WARRAGUL 2-49

TRAFALGAR travelled to Morwell Club and HeatherTaylor and her rink of Pat Tatterson, Frank Farrugia and Tim Anderson had a20-15win over Beryl Noblett and her rink of Iyoko Yoshimura, Sue Karleusa and Roger Rejmer.

Helen Robertson and her rink of Col Carmichael, Carol Saunders and Ken Capper had a22-15 win over Tess Borg and her rink of Leanne Broadbent, Bernie Kirkup and Tara Harle.

For the home team, Jan Karleusa and her rink of Dashaa Martin, Gail Rejmer and Neil Whitelaw hada27-19 winoverSue Robinson andher rink of Terry Robertson,Shirley Melsen and Paul Dawson.

 TRAFALGAR 14-61 DEFEATED MORWELL CLUB 2-57

DIVISION 2

NEWBOROUGH (2)got back on the winning list defeating Newborough (3) with Carmel Goss and her rink of Wally Bechaz,Jenny Cocks andRobbert Cook defeating Natalie Lambos 33-12.

Ann-Mary Ryan defeatedHeatherDisisto29-20

and for Newborough (3)Dianne Bertolidefeated Glenys Perkins22-19.

 NEWBOROUGH (2) 14-81 DEFEATED

NEWBOROUGH (3) 2-54

MORWELLClub (2) with Shirley Kolcze and her rink of Rebecca Magnuson, Nobby Noblett and Jo Leslie defeating Lorraine Horton 37-15 had agood win over Moe, with this the only winning rink as for the home team.

Val Griffiths defeated Sandy Sinnott 27-10 and Val Rodgers defeated Betty Burridge 20-19.

 MORWELL CLUB (2) 12-66 DEFEATED MOE 4-62

TRARALGON (2) won all three rinks against visitors Warragul (2).

WithMay Cross andher rink of Frank Stake, Di Richards and Graham Cross defeating Gladys Atkinson 23-13, Barbara Scott defeated Margaret Keeffe 23-17 and Lyn Moffat defeated Glynis Mitchell 17-13.

 TRARALGON (2) 16-63 DEFEATED

WARRAGUL (2) 0-43

DROUIN (2) drew with Neerim District, with Mary Andrews and her rink of Lyn Rippon, Clive Newmanand Brian Thorpe having a26-20win over Pat Fraser-Aurisch, and for the visitors, Cookie Halligan defeated Irene Dawson 21-18 and Karren Sheers defeated Lyn Jeffrey 17-14, leaving the match all tied up.

 DROUIN (2) 7-58 DREWWITH NEERIM DISTRICT 9-58

DIVISION 3

YINNAR 16-75 defeated Yarragon 0-43, with the home side winning all three rinks.

Meredith Kennan and herrink of Kerryn Nicholson, Max Aumannand Tim Rochewon 24-10 against Margaret Arnold.

Hilarie Anstey defeated Kaye McLaren 22-17 and Jennie Harris defeated Marion Chetland 29-16.

MORWELL(2) defeated Morwell (3) with Jan Moodyand her rink of Lyn Johnston, Sharlene Draeger and Max Duncan defeating Glenda Thompson 25-17 and Rebecca Matheson defeated Palma McNeill19-16, whilst Letti Mizzilost16-22 to Jenny Duncan.

TRAFALGAR (2) 12-58 defeated Traralgon (3) 4-56 with only one rink up as Lyn Sephton and her rink of Rena Spark, Peter Dart and Anthony Mitchinson won 25-13 over Fay Marsh, and for the visitors Shirley Richardson defeated Joanna Reekie 22-20 and Muriel Johnson defeated Margaret Moss 21-13, leaving Trarafalgar (2) the winners by 2shots.

GARFIELD 16-90 defeatedDrouin (3) 0-41 at home with Maureen Lamport and her rink of Jan Johnson, Malcolm Newham and Bob Lamport having a40-11 win over Margaret Owens, Helene Newton defeated Ethel Van Maanen 31-13, and Gwen Fabris defeated Dini Hone 19-17.

DIVISION 4

CHURCHILL

5-38 drew Yallourn North 5-38.

Winner: High Done for Moe’s Paul and Tracey Templeton, ridden by Lachlan King, wins Race 9 at Sale

Photo:ScottBarbour/Racing Photos

Pennant soured by poor weather

LAWN BOWLS

STRZELECKI NORTH

SATURDAYPENNANT

BY MICHAEL HOLROYD

WEEKEND Pennant was played in vastly different conditions to last week, with Morwell playing Traralgon on Fridaynight in quite cool conditions, while teams playing on Saturday had to contend with miserable weather particularly early in the afternoon.

DIVISION 1

ON Friday night, Traralgon travelled to Morwell and Matt Ferrari and his rink of Ian Hilsley, Chris Ward and Michael Yacoub had a23-14 win over NathanCook and his rinkofJim Turner, Sarah Ashby and Laurie Melhuish.

MickCoram and his rink of Angela Hackett, Ian Kirkup and Shane O’Loughlin had a26-21 win over David Cook and his rink of Jodie Ashby, Kevin Pigdon and Keith Gadsby.

For the home team, ErnieKingand his rink of MikeArnold, Danny McKeown and Russell Williams had a20-11 win over Vin McIlwain and his rink of Kirsty Van den Hoff, Shane Chapman and Matt Eccles, whilst ChrisGoldsbroughand his rink of Ross Harford, Brian Kingsley and Ron Lyfield drew 19-19 with Jim Scullin and his rink of Nick Turnbull, Pat Trewin and Brenton Hackett

 TRARALGON 15-79 DEFEATED MORWELL

3-74

DROUIN had agood win at home against Moe withSheryl Atkinson and her rink of Maureen Leighton, Jan Aubreyand LesFirth having a23-12 win over Michael Smogavec and his team of Michele Muccillo, Val Rodgers and Barry Hawkett.

Samantha Atkinson and her rink of David McIlfatrick, Rudy Kerkvliet and MarkAtkinson had a21-18 win over Sandy Caines and his rink of Bob Rennie, Les Stolarik and Ted Kuklinsky.

Mick Fleming and his rink of Bruce Andrews,

Local voice on world table

BOCCE

By TOM HAYES

DUALbocce code champion and Italian Australia Club Morwell’s, Diane Penney, hasjoined the Confederazione Boccistica Internazionale (CBI) World Bocce-Raffa

Athletes commission to representthe athlete voice.

Diane was appointed by CBI President, Dr Mutlu Turkmen, in consultation with CBI Secretary General, Antonio Biancacci. The role of the Athlete Commission is to communicate the interestsofhighperformance bocceathletes and to act as the collective voice for those athletes.

It works in co-operation with the CBI to achieve its mission to represent athletes within the Bocce-Raffa code of the sport and support them to succeed in their sporting and non-sporting careers.

This acknowledgement to appoint Penney is another greatcoup for BocceAustralia, and especially for Penney.

It is testimony thatthe worldbocce governing body sees Bocce Australia as aleader in bocce governance and know-how, producing not only good qualityathletes but also excellent administrators in the sport.

Sticking with Penney, she wasrecently named in the Bocce Australia President’s top 10 moments of 2022.

Named the ‘Queen of Bocce’, Penney has mastered bothbocce codes as aplayer,coach and referee.

2022 was successful for Penney, as she won Australian titles in Bocce-Volo and BocceRaffa before representing Australia and winning two gold medals and asilvermedal at the Asia Oceania ContinentalBocce-Raffa Championships, held in Malaysia.

Penney was alsonamed in the Bocce Australia Hall of Fame -Team of the Half Century.

Also on the Bocce Australia President’s top 10 moments of 2022, at number two, was the Italian Australia Sporting Club, Morwell.

The club hostedfive memorable bocce events, plus did so much more behind the scenes.

The Italian Australia Sporting Club hosted the SeniorNationals, Bocce Australia’s 50th Anniversary special, the Hall of Fame gala night, the Latrobe City classic and the BocceRaffa Open.

John Leighton and Geoff Bailey had a20-18 win over JaydeLeechand hisrinkofJim Lawrence, Stuart Caines and Jan Rudy.

For the visitors, Banger Harvey and his rink of Stan Myers, Ian Caines and Brian Rodgers had a 23-19 win over Toby Wallace and his rink of Alex Miller, Peter Wallace and Graeme Aubrey.

 DROUIN 16-83 DEFEATED MOE 2-71

ROSS Sizeland and his rink of Nathan Forester, Peter Barnes and ChrisMackintoshwerethe only winning rink for Trafalgar RSL with a25-10 win over Darren Kane and his rink of Terry Robertson, Heather Taylor and Paul Dawson.

Trafalgar was well served by Ken Capper and his rink of Pat Tatterson, Tim Anderson andPeter Jonas who won 16-12 against Alan Kanavan and hisrinkofGordon Bayley, Paul Matters and Dave Morley

Matt Schreyerand his rink of ColCarmichael, Wayne Hurst and Wayne Arnold had a24-23 win overTerry Hunter and his rinkofTitchHore, Garry Trewin and John Taylor.

Ian Miles and his rink of Graham Hill, Chris Bortignon and Tim Fraser drew 14-14 with Dave Hodsonand hisrink of Daniel Earl, Kevin Durwood, Beau Williamson and Dave Hodson.

 TRARALGON RSL 13-74DEFEATED TRAFALGAR 5-64

NEWBOROUGH travelledtoWarraguland came home with awin as Alan Grubb and his rink of Barry Daley, Rod Lewis and Neale Houston had a26-14 win over Jim Powerand his rink of Des Stephens, Bruce Thompson and David Ferguson.

TommyLodgeand his rink of Dave Wurlod, Phil Marston and Scott Jones hada24-18 win over Janette Gallasch and her rink of Matt Draisma, RussellCarrick and Peter Gallasch.

For the home team, David Smith and his rink of John Vickerman, Robert Renn and Graeme Davis had a26-16 win over Kevin Lovett and his rink of Brian Carpenter, Jo-Anne Michaels and George Lambos.

Bill Clappersand his rink of Bernie McIntosh, David Alderman and Terry Sullivan had a18-18 draw with Ryan Marston and his rink of Tony Knipping, Alan Ryan and Paul Sherman.

 NEWBOROUGH 15-84 DEFEATED WARRAGUL 3-76

DIVISION 2

TRARALGON (2) had agood win at home against Neerim District with Kevin Enguell and his rink of Percy Mosele, Kathy Smiles and Dave Currie having a21-16 win over Neil Adams.

Trevor James and his rink of Jedd Ladgrove, Al Hegarty and Cary Locke had a25-17 win over Shane Hogan.

Ron Sherlock and his rink of Matt Ogilvie, Ian Bloomfield and Maurie Sutcliffe had a26-14 win over Peter Brooks.

For the visitors, Peter Throup and his rink of Karren Sheers, Ray Throup and PatFraser-Aurisch had a22-13 win over Abe Roeder.

 TRARALGON (2) 16-85 DEFEATED NEERIM DISTRICT 2-69

LONGWARRY had abig winathome against Traralgon RSL (2) when Ken White and his rink of John McCarthy, Ian Peterson and Glenn Pask had a36-14 win over Gordon Asbury.

Jason Lieshout and his rink of Grant Pask, Barry and RussellWhitehad a34-12 win over Gordon Bakker.

Trevor Kitchin and his rink of Debbie Parker, Robert Proctorand Peter Lieshout had a26-10 win over Jeff Blythman.

For the visitors, Max Gibbins and his rink of Don Wight, Eric Warfe and Brian Wilkinson had a19-17 win over Adam Proctor.

 LONGWARRY16-113 DEFEATED TRARALGON RSL (2) 2-55

THORPDALEtravelled to Newborough (2) and came home with agood win. Ben Powell and his rink of Wendy Jennings, Keith Geisler and Denis Gunn had a23-15 win over Bob Goldie, Ron Mackie and his rink of Alan McLure, Brian O’Connell and Brendan Jennings had a22-11 win over Graham Cocks.

DwayneGunnand his rink of RubinVan Zuylen, Graeme Edwards and David Ferguson had a36-7 winover Robbert Cook.

For the home team, Spencer Goss and his rink of Brian Milkins, Albert Van Stekelenburg and Graham Smith had a26-16 win over Ross Kennedy.

 THORPDALE 16-97 DEFEATED NEWBOROUGH (2) 2-59

MORWELL Club won all rinks against Drouin (2) Neil Whitelaw and his rink of Steve Kilpatrick, David Broadbent and David Stevens defeated Brian Thorpe 31-8. Tara Harle and her rink of Michael Skinner, David Patience and Roger Rejmer had a23-21 win over Dale Hendrick.

GlennTrembath and his rink of Vaughan Reimers, Nobby Noblett and Alan Campbell had a24-22 winoverDavid Tayles and BrettHarle and his rink of Dashaa Martin, Mil Karleusa and Lee Mckenzie defeated Arthur Moore 33 –10.

 MORWELL CLUB 18-111 DEFEATED DROUIN (2) 0-61

DIVISION 3

AFTER agood win lastweekagainst the undefeated Garfield Warragul (2) came down to earth winning threerinksatBoolarra and losingoverall by 20 shots.

The big winners for Boolarra were Travis Baker and his rinkofColin Brick, Bruce Daveyand Graeme Colbert with a41-8win over Bob Currie.

For the visitors, Noel Rubenstein defeated Terry Parker 22-16,Pat Hammond defeated Stephen Davey 21-18 and Greg Mitchell defeated Darren Napier 23-19.

 BOOLARRA12-94 DEFEATED WARRAGUL (2) 6-74 MORWELL(2) hadagood win at Yinnar.

Jack Prendergast and his rink of Helen Cook, Irene Biggs and Bob Wilson had a28-15 win over Murray De La Haye andGerryVan Duin defeated Gavin Osborne 26-22.

For the home team, Tim Roche defeated Ken Turner 23-14 and Luke Djudurovic defeated Bob Skinner 16-15.

 MORWELL (2) 14-83 DEFEATED YINNAR 4-76 GARFIELD got back on the winning list at home against Newborough (3) withShaneOliver and his trinkofGraeme Burton, Bob Lamport and Richard Ross defeating Alan Luck 30-11.

Tom ClearydefeatedJim Cuthbertson 21-13 and Nick Henwood defeated Ed Whelan 23-14.

For the visitors,PeterPolichadefeated Steve Whyte 21-20.

 GARFIELD 16-94 DEFEATED NEWBOROUGH (3) 2-59

MOE (2) 9-0 drew with Traralgon(3) 9-0, when the managers agreed to call the game offdue to persistent wet weather.

DIVISION 4

MORWELL (3) staged aFriday night match against Churchill and the visitors came away with agood win.

Bill Brown and his team of Bruce McLure, Dianne Thomas and Marion Newton had a30-12win over Rita Reddiex and Chris Thomas defeated Trevor Curtis 22-15.

For the home team, Graham Hutchinson defeated CraigFlanigan 26-18 and Bob D’Brass defeated Shirley Turner 25-24.

 CHURCHILL 14-94 DEFEATED MORWELL (3) 4-78

TRAFALGAR(2) had abig winathome against Yallourn North.

Anthony Mitchinson and his rink of DerekJones, Laurie Heenan and Ian Riley had a29-9win over Rob Matthews,Bruce Giles defeated George Platschinda 28-11 and Frank Farrugia defeated Gary Ingley 29-11.

For the visitors, Ricky Hearn defeated Mal Clymo 26-19.

 TRAFALGAR (2) 16-105 DEFEATED YALLOURN NORTH 2-57

YARRAGON had agood win at home against Traralgon (4) with Jason Roberts and his rink of Gordon Wright, David Swingler and Murray Grigg having a26-9win over Ian Wills.

Richard Polmear defeatedStuartHulse 24-23and for the visitors, Norbert Schroeder defeated Sam Mazza 23-18 and Col Mayman defeated Jarrod Grigg 17-16.

 YARRAGON 14-84 DEFEATED TRARALGON (4) 4-72

NEWBOROUGH (4)9-0 drew with Warragul (3) 9-0, when themanagers agreed to call the game off due to persistent wet weather.

DIVISION 5

TRAFALGAR (3) 14-63 defeated Drouin (3) 2-45, Drouin (3) salvaged two points

LONGWARRY (2) 8-57 drew with Morwell Club (2) 8-57.

GARFIELD (2) 14-69 defeated Traralgon (5) 2-57

NEERIM District (2) 16-71 defeated Morwell (4) 0-41 with all rinks up.

TRARALGON RSL (3) 16-24 defeated Moe (3) 0-0 on forfeit.

DIVISION 6

TRAFALGAR (4) 8-37 defeated Boolarra (2) 2-34; Yinnar/Churchill 10-42 defeated Newborough (5) 0-33; Yallourn North (2) 10-51 defeated Thorpdale (2) 0-29; Morwell

Good timesroll: Therace to thefinalsisheating up in Strzelecki North. File photo

Morrisontaking to championships

CRICKET LVDCL

MORWELL Cricket Club’s Ben Morrisoniscurrently in Brisbane for the National Inclusion Championships.

Morrison is part of the Victorian Deaf and Hard of Hearing teamthat will play five games against teams representing New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia in the week long carnival.

The competition also involves competitions with Blind and Intellectually Disabled persons from various states.

Morrison has played five matches for the Tigers this seasoninthe Latrobe ValleyDistrict Cricket League, featuring in the Premier C team. Opening the bowling most weeks, he has taken wickets in all but one game.

Asport forall: Morwell Cricket Club’sBen Morrison is representing thestate at the National Inclusion Championships

Photograph supplied

Venues have been announced for GF

CRICKET

LVDCL

GRAND FINAL venues for the Latrobe Valley District Cricket League havebeen announced (subject to confirmation by host and participating clubs).

Senior Grand Finals will be heldthe weekend of March 18/19, with back-up days the following weekend.

Junior finals begin Sunday, March 5. (Under 12s begins Monday, March 13).

The women’s final is Friday, March 10/17. At time of print, venues were:

Premier AGrade -Ted SummertonReserve, Moe

AGrade -Keegan Street, Morwell

Premier BGrade -JackCanavanOval#2, Traralgon West BGrade -Peter Siddle Oval, Latrobe

Premier CGrade -Maryvale #2 Oval, Latrobe

CGrade -Trafalgar Recreation Reserve

Under 16 -Mirboo North Turf

Under 14 -NorthernReserve,Morwell

Under 12 -Moe Racecourse #2

Women’s Competition -Keegan Street (synthetic wicket),Morwell

One-dayers now followingLVDCL washouts

CRICKET LVDCL

BY LIAM DURKIN

RAIN drops, work stops.

If rain falls on your head, get in the shed. Wet steel, no deal.

Wet timber, get on Tinder.

The Latrobe ValleyDistrict Cricket League resembled aworksite on Saturday, as persistent showers saw the majority of games abandoned.

While atotal abandonment was not called on Saturday morning, most matches were eventually called after ground inspections by players and umpires.

With last Saturday scheduled to be the first day of Round 14 in Premier Aand AGrade,games in those divisions will now revert to one-day conditions.

So, get the coloured clothes and pads back out, along with the white balls.

Therewillbeleg side wides, free hits, and ahigh likelihood of cheap wickets between overs 45 and 50 caught on the fence.

Premier A

MATCH-OF-THE-ROUND sees third-placed

Morwell take on top-side Moe.

Just four points separates the teams, and given there can no longer be outrights in aone-dayer (Trafalgar tried very hard once, losing 17 wickets in aday), the Tigers can go equal with the Lions if they claim victory at home.

Morwell defeated Moe in the previous one-day game just before Christmas, and could be looking to reference this performance.

Thatbeing said,the margin wasonly 17 runs, and asimilar margin would not be all that surprising on the return.

For asidethat is on top of the ladder, the Lions seem to be quietly going about their business.

The bowlers have been inflicting damage on opposition line-ups in thelast two rounds; Callum Grant’s7/37and 5/13fromRob Phoenix evidence of that.

Duetoa combinationoffactors, Moehas needed to bat at avery slow rate in the couple of two-day gamespost-Christmas.Inthe match against Latrobe, they batted nearly100 overs for 256, and in the previous game against CATS,went at just over two runs-per-over.

Without stating the obvious, the Lions can’tafford to bat like this in aone-dayer, and the challenge will be there for playerstodemonstrate their versatility switching back to the shorter format.

By contrast, this could be where Morwell looks to take the upper hand.

If the Tigers can keep their opponents locked in Test mode,they should be able to keep the scoring rate undercontrol for the most part.

Morwell has playersthe likes of Blair Clymo who can rotate strike via deft dabs mixed in with the odd boundary, which could lay the foundation for Blake Mills and Brendan Brincat to blast the ball in the last 17 overs.

The Tigers have named formerChurchillcaptain Brendan Mason in CGrade afew times thisseason, and interest will surround if he makes his AGrade debut for Morwell on Saturday.

Mason is coming back from injury, but could be akey addition for Morwell if he is fit to playin time for finals.

LATROBE can narrow the gap on the top four if it is successful at home.

The Sharks are playing Churchill -asideithas already defeated this season.

Latrobe won that encounter by 35 runs, helped in no small way by captain Benn Zomer, who scored 53 and took three wickets.

Zomer’swicketofJohn Keighran went along way to deciding the match,asthe Cobras were 6/129 in pursuit of 186 when he departed for 43.

TheSharkswill be looking to their skipper for further heroics at home, as they aim to stay on track for afinals berth.

By their own admission, Latrobe hasprobably let teams off the hook in the two games since Christmas, and will know the consequenceof mistakes against any side that has Keighran in it.

Churchill new-ball bowler Kian Farnworth already has 24 wickets for the season, and should enjoy bowling on aPeter Siddle Oval wicket that, given its limiteduse this season due to factors outside the club’s control, remains something of amystery.

Traditionally, opposition captains have been fooled over the years at Peter Siddle Oval, with the sight of grass causing them to immediately think ‘green top’,only for the locals to know full well it is going to play perfectly fine.

While there will surely be many factors determining this match, just how well Keighran reads the pitch might be the most pivotal.

CATS has some catching up to do.

Mathematically,the highest CATS can go at the completion of this round is fifth, which would still put them agame outside the top four with two rounds to play.

The equation would therefore seem relatively straight-forward.

CATS willtravel to Yinnar for an assignment against Raiders, who conversely, could go 10 points clear in the top four if it wins and Latrobe loses.

It has been afairly horrendous four weeks since Christmas for the reigning premier, who have lost outright,and failed to chase 123.

Raiders meanwhile have knocked-off Morwell and Churchill -teams bothcurrentlyahead of them on the ladder.

On that basis, Raiders should start favourite, but by the same token, will know the danger CATS possess, as well as the lottery element of one-day cricket.

Loversoffast bowling could be in for atreat, with Cal Stewart in the CATS colours, and Madura Perera in Raiders’sending downsomethunderbolts for their respective sides.

The ball looks to be the element that will dominant this game, as both teams have shown a tendency to collapse at times this season.

Raiders only made acombined total of 210 over two innings in their last match, while CATS’ last four efforts has been: All out 108, 104, 75 and 71.

AGrade

TRAFALGAR and Centralswill vie for Take 2at Racecourse Turf.

Thenumber two looks to be astrong theme in this match -Centrals to make it two-from-two against the Ships, (and all but sew-up the minor premiership), and Trafalgar to stay on track for a top-two finish.

Only one win separates the combatants, although the Lions are acommanding 11 points clear on top thanks to consecutive outrights.

Strongpercentage is ahallmark of both these teams, which would indicate they have been winning games convincingly.

Those who know sportstatistics know percentage usually tellsthe full story. (Collingwood’s was only marginally better than Gold Coast’s last year).

The Lions won alast-ballthriller against the Ships in their last one-dayer in early December, andwill no doubt have gained alot of confidence from that.

Trafalgar’s fielding was deplorable in that match, but after addressing the issue, has tidied up that area of the game, and not lost amatch since.

Likewise, Centralshas not lost agame since, meaning the winning streak of at least one club is going to come to an end on Saturday (barring atie).

Tye Hourigan has been in good formwith the bat for Centrals,and has 250 runs for the season so far. However, his statistics against Trafalgar make for unpleasant, and somewhat confusing, reading Put simply -hejust can’t seem to make arun against the Ships.

He has made 57 runs in 10 hits against them.

Trafalgar coalitionbowlers Jackson Noonan, Zack Brown and Daniel Heathcote will be looking to keep this average where it is, but will be vary that Hourigan is well and truly due.

They will also be wary of South African Reghard Hefer, especiallyafter he sent four balls literally into the carpark at Trafalgar Recreation Reserve the last time these two teams met.

Some of those sixes were big (emphasise the big as you say it).

Both sides were essentially marooned in possibly the worst place for awashout last Saturday, with the small Moe Racecourse rooms acting almost like solitary confinement.

With no food, no TV, and no pool table,itwas the equivalent of bachelor hell.

Players will no doubt be eager to avoid such a repeat, andget onto the ground at all costs this Saturday. WILLOW GROVE might all of asudden be a sneaky chance.

The Wolves are hosting Jeeralang-Boolarra on theWillow Grove astro.

Both teams head in with just the one win combined, meaning this match could carry all the intensity of afinal.

Had the game stayed as atwo-dayer,the Panthers may well have been clear favourites, however, the nature of one-daycricketmeans Willow Grove could chalk up their first win as a‘new’ AGrade club.

The home side showed it could bat afull day in atwo-dayer last game; now the challenge will be two-fold: do the same in aone-dayer, but keep the scoreboard ticking.

Left hander Nathan Wheildon has abig enough shotrangetodothis,while the other Nathan, NathanWeatherhead, could causesomeissues bowling his right arm wobblers.

Jeeralang-Boolarra will want to put this result beyond all reasonable doubt as quickly as possible, and fortunately for them, they look to have abatting line-up probably more suited to the shorter format.

ThePanthers certainly aren’t afraid to play their shots, and in a50-over game, if they come out swinging, they can afford to lose two wickets every 10 overs provided every player is able to connect with afew.

The questionwill be whether or not they can balance this with sensibility.

This is where seniorleaders Ben Heath and Ben McCormack will be called upontoprovide the calming influence.

TRARALGON WEST may havebeen jumping for joy when they found out this week was aone-dayer.

The Eagles were the in-form one-day team of the competition up until Christmas.

Aheavy outright loss that was virtually determinedonthe first day last round however, meant the side came crashing back down to earth.

Giventhe natureofthat defeat to Centrals,there may have been worrying signs for the Eagles, but for now at least, they have aone-day game to win against Mirboo North at home.

The Tigers probablywouldhave started favourite in atwo-day game, but now that the situation has changed, the odds might have evened up.

The Eagles displayed afearless approach to batting in their one-dayers before Christmas, and could implement asimilar approach on Saturday.

Most in the Traralgon West camp aren’t overly concerned with how they look with the bat, provided they score runs, which might actually work to their advantage in more ways than one.

If the ball starts flying to places unplanned, the Eagles will not only succeed in scoring, but it could also frustratethe Mirboo North bowlers drastically With afour-point lead in second-place,Traralgon West captain Rob Wilkie might send the message to go down swinging.

Having played enough cricket to know what is goingon, the Tigers’ experiencedheadsofBrett Pedlow, Jed Alexander and Dale Banks will be aware of the potential for any reverse psychology. Patienceisavirtue, and MirbooNorth plays this game better than most.

Two worlds could be set to collide at Jack Canavan.

LVDCL scoreboard

PREMIER CGRADE -ROUND 12

Mirboo North 3/177 (D Turner 29*, PWoodall 25) def Trafalgar 2/155(cc) (S Asmussen 52*, WPace 35, DTurner 2/14); Centrals 7/178(cc) (A Foley73, KSaunders26, J Murdoch 25, ASavige 2/26, SPalmer 2/36) def Moe 163(RStraughair 42, MGlibanovic 39, Brad Howlett3/17, JDonovan 3/42, Brodie Howlett2/26)

Allother LVDCL games across all grades were postponed/abandoned duetorain.

Grants available to help clubs build

FOOTBALL/NETALL

THE state government is supporting the growth of country football and netball with more grantsto build new ovals and courts where they’re needed most.

Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence, announced applications for the Country Football and Netball program.

“Country football and netballclubs are the lifeblood of Victorian communities and we’re supporting them with theinfrastructure they need to taken on more players,host more events and draw biggercrowds-creating areal buzz in the

community and boosting local economies,” Spence said

Up to $2.5 million is available for rural, regional and outer metropolitan councils to apply for grants of up to $250,000 to deliver projects such as installing sports lighting, and building new or redeveloping pavilions to benefit their local clubs.

Regionalclubs impacted by the recent floods, or in communities experiencing socio-economic disadvantage, strong population growth or other economic challenges are also strongly encouraged to approach their local councils to apply for program funding.

Recent successful projects include $68,000 to Warrnambool CityCouncil for lighting upgradesat

the Dennington netball court,$197,000 to theCity of Greater Geelong for the Anakie Reserve netball court upgrade, and $200,000toGolden Plans Shire Council for the Linton Oval reconstruction.

The Country Football and Netball Program makes it easier for players, coaches, umpires, kids andclubsupporters to stay involved in the game and encourages communities to lead healthy and active lifestyles.

The program is apartnership with the AFL, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria and has invested more than$35 million across the state since it was launched in 2005.

“It is fantastic to see the program continuing in 2023, which means many country football and netball clubs will benefit from new and upgraded

facilities in coming year,”HeadofAFL Victoria, Ben Kavenagh said.

“Betterfacilities mean more participation, and greater opportunities for Victorians to experience everything our sport has to offer,” Netball Victoria chief executive, Andrea Pearman said. This year, maximum grant amounts have increased from the previous round of the program to ensureimportant infrastructure can continue to be delivered.

The state government has invested more than $1.6billionincommunity sports infrastructure since 2014.

Applications close on March 27, 2023. For more information about the program and to apply go to sport.vic.gov.au

Pelicans booktheir tickettofinalsinthe TDCA

CRICKET

TDCA

VICTORIANweather was on show again last weekend, as the Traralgon District Cricket Associationwent from sweltering in 36 degree heat the Saturday before, to pullingout thejumpers and vests as the temperature didn’t get over 17.

The wet weather caused one match in AGrade, one match in BGrade andtwo matches in CGrade to be abandoned without aballbeing bowled, but that still left five matches to be played across the round which was agreat result from the league’s hard- working curators.

PLAY didn’t get underway at Catterick Crescent betweenImperialsand Ex Studentsuntil well into the afternoon.

Whenshowers finally cleared it left enoughtime for atwenty20 to be played.

The wicket had been under cover for quite atime, but confident in his knowledge of his home deck, Ryan Morley won the toss and batted first.

BeingaT20,Imperials were hoping to start well while the field was up, but the Sharks pressure was on them from ballone, and the home team was unable to score aboundary until the fifthover whichactually came from awide.

Morley was dismissed the over before which left Tom Starkey to shoulder the burden of being the mainstay. Although wicketsseemed to fall around him regularly, he constructed afine 41 before being given out plumb in front from Lee Stockdale.

Morley (14) and Starkey were the only batsmen to get to double figures, and although the home team battled hard, the Ex Students pressure was just too much as only five boundaries were scored off the bat throughout the Imperials innings.

Ex Students as aunit bowledextremely well, with only one bowler (who bowled multiple overs) going at over five-an-overwhich in aT20 is extraordinary.

Andrew Matthews collected the best figures, which was helped by the last over of Imperials innings where he claimed 3/3 and had arun out in the over as well.

Michael Bentley was the other multiple wicket taker, while Stockdale, Pryde and Harrisall claimed one.

Ex Students didn’t want to leave the gameto chance and wanted it over and done with before anymore rain came through.

CaptainPryde opened with Stockdale and hardhitting Adam Jaensch, and the pair got the score to 32 after just four overs.

The bowling duo of Scott Aitken and Dilshan Thillekarathna were able to stop the flow of runs alittle, but the score continued to climb due to Ex Students intent and good running between wickets.

When Joel Randall was brought on in the eighth over the score was 0/51, but once he completed it, Jaensch had taken it up to 70. Randall fought back to claim two wickets late, but the game was all but over as Stockdale and Jaensch were dismissed for scores of 43.

Agood win and abonus point has Ex Students on the hunt for top spot, and although Glengarry are still six points clear, there is still enough time for the Sharks to reach the top of the ladder.

For Imperials, the toll of playing 18 straight months of cricketmight be catching up to Ryan Morley, as he has only made 35 runs in four hits since Christmas.

With Toongabbie and Glengarry coming up, he will enjoy the extra pace on the ball and hopefully find that early season formwhich had him smashing the ball hard and taking on all bowlers.

ROVERS made the trip to Yarram and although the weather wasn’t great over the hill, this match enjoyed the most play in regards to availableovers.

Rovers batted first and were able to get scoring, but arain delay stopped play and the 42 overs they had scheduled at the start of the match was reduced back to 36.

The delay didn’t stop Ewan Williams who made agood score of 77, which helped his team get to a total of 7/180 adjusted due to Duckworth Lewis.

Yarram’s bowlers are still getting use to the new wicket,but Daniel O’Keefe is loving the new deck

TDCA SCOREBOARD

as he hits the wicket hard and presents the seam consistently,whichhelpedhim claim four wickets in the innings.

Jeremy Babb was the other wicket taker for the Pelicans, claiming 3/30 in another good display of spin bowling.

Knowing the total required, the Pelicans would have been confident, but things didn’t start well with Dylan Rash and Anthony Scott both making ducks.

This meant Daniel O’Keefe got to workand went about making agood 50, while Nick Milne and Griffin Underwood helped things along as well.

It was the same old story for Rovers, who let themselves down by dropping catches, but they were still in the game right up until the end of the day. Jeremy Babb got the home team over the line with agood 19 not out to have Yarram claim the points eight wickets down.

Awin would have had Rovers in the top four, but now they will have to ensure they beat Gormandale this week to stay in touch with afinals spot, while Yarram have cemented afinals berth.It’s just up to them now whether or not they can claim a home final.

UNFORTUNATELY for the Ries/Timmins Cup, the match between Glengarry and Toongabbie was washed out before aball was bowled.

The washout helpsthe Rams alittle as they have now moved one point further ahead of Rovers,who sit in fifthpositiononthe ladder,but for Glengarry, they will want to get out on the park and not let Ex Students sneak up on them in the final rounds of the regular season.

BGrade

THINGS are heating up in the lower grades of the TDCA,evenifthe weather is cold.

Yarram District have passed Ex Students and now sit top of the ladder after defeating Rovers at Duncan Cameron Park on Saturday.

Rovers batted first and never really got going, as they quickly lost wickets in arain affected first innings.

The haltinplaymeant the Rovers’ overs were reduced to 30, and although the young team fought hard they could stillonly manage8/96 at compulsory closure.

Jesse Carney was ashining light, with the youngster making 31 from 33 balls, while another young bat, Oliver Grant,fought hard for his 13 from 32 balls.

The Pelicans then went about chasing down the total as quickly as possible, and were able to do so in 20 overs.

Michael Lush was the best performer of the day,

as he finished 51 not out opening the batting, which proved to be the difference in the match.

Again, this was acrucialwin for Yarram District, who now sit top of the BGrade ladder by just one point, while last year’s premier, Rovers, have a strong focus on junior development at the moment in BGrade and are starting to getsome rewardfor it with the youngsters taking their opportunities.

Out at Roger Ries Oval, rain also caused issues at the start of the match but aresult was still able to be achieved which Glengarry would have been incredibly happy with.

The home team batted first, buoyed by the fact that JamesChalmers was lining up in the team forthe first time this season.

To the Rams delight he had immediate impact andmade avery nice 48 not out, opting for the red ink instead of raising the bat.The in-form Michael Dunn was the other significant contributor with 44,and although the ground was wet the wicket was in good condition and Toongabbie finished their 24 overs 5/120.

The shorter format certainly suited the Glengarry boys though, and Chris Dunn (27), Andrew Winter (28) and Brandon Francis (39) were able to chase down Toongabbies total in the 23rd over.

Brady Hood was the only multiple wicket taker for the match, claiming 2/20, and did his best to get Toongabbie the win, but Glengarry was too strong andnow sit six points behind the Rams on the B Grade ladder in fifth.

CGrade

ONLY one match was able to be played in CGrade, but it had huge ramifications for the teams just outside the top four, as it leftImperialswithin reaching distance.

Imperials batted first and managed to bat out their total overs which gave them achance.

The Glengarry bowlers worked hard and were rewarded as Wayne Hutchieson and Ashleigh Hodson both walked away with three wicket hauls

With 110 to chase, Glengarry would have been confident,but whenAsh Hodson was dismissed the visitors were in with achance.

Daniel Morris and Justin Shankland did all they could with the ball, but amatch-winning knock of 62 from Shinu Saju meant the home side walked awayvictors, chasing downImperials’ total for the loss of seven wickets.

With Toongabbie (sixth) and Rovers (fifth) sharing the points with top of the table Ex Students and Yarram District, it now means Imperials are just half agame clear in fourth spot, and awin from either club behind them on the ladder in the next few weeks could see abig shift in the top four.

M Membrey 1-0-8-0

Ex Students Innings

LStockdale cAdamsbRandall 43

AJaensch bRandall 43

MHarris not out 3

JMcMahon .not out 0

Extras .(nb 0, w7,b2,lb1). .10

Overs. .13

Total. .2/99

Imperials bowling: TStarkey 2-0-7-0, BSizeland2-0-24-0, SAitken2-0-10-0, DThillekarathna 4-0-24-0, JRandall 2.5-0-31-2

GlengarryvToongabbie: Abandoned

Gormandale -Bye

BGRADE-ROUND 17

Toongabbie 5/120 (J Chalmers48*, MDunn 44)def by Glengarry5/122 (B Francis 39*, AWinter28, C Dunn 27,B Hood 2/20); Rovers 8/96(cc)(JCarney

31*, TCrawford3/27, ATaylor2/22) defbyYarram District 3/101 (M Lush 51*, GBramwell 2/12); Ex Students vImperials (abandoned); Gormandale -Bye

CGRADE -ROUND 11

Glengarry7/133 (S Saju 62, DMorris 2/5, J Shankland 2/10, LBalakrishnan 2/20) defImperials 9/110 (D Warwick25, WHutchieson 3/10, AHodson 3/17, TDwyer 2/27); Toongabbie vEx Students (abandoned);Roversv Yarram District (abandoned)

Ticktock: Time is running out forRoverstomakefinals in the TDCA.

Photo: TomHayes

Traralgon returns from

CRICKET GCL

BY TOM PARRY

TRARALGON District won the Gippsland Cricket League Grand Final on Sunday, after thumping Sale-Maffra on their home turf.

TheSharkswon thecoin toss and electing to batfirst at Sale Oval, on apitch that was hard, dry and had minimal grass coverage.

Savefor the overcast skies and gusty winds, conditions could not have been more perfect for batting.

NathanFreitag got Traralgonoff to the prefect start, bowling Adrian Burgiel with the very first ball of the innings.

It was an ominous sign of things to come for the Sharks.

Ewan Williamswas next to strike, tearing throughSale-Maffra’stop ordertodismiss heavy hitters Zac Hurley, Steve Spoljaric and Rohan Diamond, all lost for single digits in the first 10 overs of the game.

Jack Tatterson and Tom Morrisonoffered some resistance for the fifth wicket,but only briefly -they too were gone by the 16th over, both succumbing to the bowling of Mitch Harris.

Sale teammatesBen Jones and Garreth Wolmaransformed apartnership which also proved brief, lasting six overs with only 18 runs added.

Wolmaransthen combined with Jack Rietschel for another six-over stand, this one netting just 13 runs before the latter was trapped on his pads.

The very next over, Wolmarans was dismissed in similar circumstances, withSale-Maffra’s scorecard reading 9/80.

Sharks captain Dylan Bolton and RosedaleKilmany’sIsaacLove managed to save the Sharks from utter humiliation, scoring 36 runs between them in their 10th-wicket fightback.

It wasn’t enough -Sale-Maffra was all out for 116 in the 36th over.

Love was the last batsman to depart, finishing with an innings-best 25.

Williams and Harris took three wickets each, while Lee Stockdale snaggedtwo, andFreitag and James Pryde walked away with one each.

Traralgon had amuch stronger start to their innings, with openers Frank Marks and Stockdale making 42 runs between them in the first eight overs.

After Stockdale’s dismissal, Marks then partnered with his captain to add another 24 to Traralgon’s total.

Achange in bowlers brought an end to that

GCL SENIOR FINAL

collaboration, withSpoljaricclean-bowlingMarks with his very first ball.

Twenty-two more runs were added by Freitag and Alistair Jenkin before Spoljaric struckagain, the captain caught-and-bowled for 26.

The late wickets of Ryan Morley and Matt Dyke hadthe Sharksbuzzing, but by then the premiership was well and truly in the Tornadoes grasp.

Jenkin hit the winning runs in the 42nd over withapullshottothe boundary; Traralgon District victorious by five wickets.

Markstop-scored with 42, while Jenkinwas next-bestwith 32 notout. Spoljaric waseasily the best of Sale-Maffra’s bowlers, with figures of 3/10.

Ewan Williams was awarded Man of the Match for his 3/18 off six overs.

Whilethe scorecard suggests otherwise, Traralgon’swin was nothing to be sniffedatSale-Maffra finished the regular GCL season undefeated.

THE Sharksenjoyed better success in the other two other GCL finals.

Sale-Maffra won the 18s and women’s against Bairnsdlae and Leongatha respectively.

Glory: Thevictorious Traralgon District senior team post-game with their trophies at Sale Oval. Pictured is Alistair Jenkin, Ryan Morley,Nat Freitag (captain), Lee Stockdale,Mitch Membrey,James Pryde, Lee Farley (chairman of selectors), MichaelPetersen (team manager), (front) Daniel O’Keefe, Ewan Williams, MattDyke, Mitch Harris, Adam Brady andFrank Marks.

Handful: Mitch Harris took threewickets forTraralgon in their GCL final win againstSale-Maffra.

Great job: Ewan Williams, seen here battingtowardthe endofthe day, wasMan of theMatch aftertaking 3/18.

the tone: Frank Marksopened the batting forTraralgon,and made an innings-high 42

The moment: Alistair Jenkin prepares to hit thewinning runs for Traralgon in the GCLFinal at Sale Oval

Sale with GCL flag

Stockdale joins the veryelite of Gippsland

SENIOR PREMIERSHIPS

1960/61, 1961/62, 1964/65, 1989/90, 1992/93, 2000/01, 2009/10, 2011/12, 2020/21/ 2022/23

Among thegreats: Traralgon’s Lee Stockdale wasinducted as aLegend of GippslandCricketonSunday. Stockdale is picturedafter receivingthe honour from former firstclass playerand fellow Gippslandlegend, MarkRidgway PhotoSupplied

CRICKET

GCL

NUMEROUS honours were bestowed at the post-match reception following the Gippsland CricketLeague Grand Final at Sale Oval. Long-time GCL secretary David Anderson was handed life membership of Gippsland Cricket Region 7; Lee Stockdale (Traralgon District Cricket Association) was named a LegendofGippsland; as was Reagan Kyle (Bairnsdale CricketAssociation), while Jack Tatterson (Sale-Maffra) was named a Champion of Gippsland Cricket.

To become aLegend of Gippsland, aplayer must attain eight achievements in any of the following combination: All Gippsland caps or representative honours at Victorian Country level while aGippsland cricketer.

Stockdale (who actually qualified two years ago), now has four All Gippsland caps and six seasons with Vic Country.

Kyle has eight All Gippsland caps, and Tatterson four (the number required to become aChampion of Gippsland). Tatterson also won theGCL Player of the Year for season 2022/23. This award is named after Gippsland cricket great Alan Rankin; regarded as one of the finest cricketers ever seen in Gippsland. His son Graeme was on hand to present the award on Sunday.

ALL-GIPPSLAND XII FOR 2022/23

■ Lee Stockdale (Traralgon) (Captain)

■ Dylan Bolton (Sale-Maffra)

■ Adam Brady (Traralgon)

■ Fraser Duncan (Warragul)

■ Luke Endley (Bairnsdale)

■ Ned Harrison (Warragul)

■ Reagan Kyle (Bairnsdale)

■ TomMorrison(Sale-Maffra)

■ Samuel Stewart (Bairnsdale)

■ Jack Tatterson (Sale-Maffra)

■ Daniel Vela (Warragul)

■ Jake Wynd (Sale-Maffra)

Asking the question: Traralgon’s Adam Brady appeals forleg before againstSale-Maffra’s Ben Jones.

Photographs TomParry

Chipping in: Lee Stockdale bagged twowickets in the final.

Spirit of cricket: Opposing captains Nathan Freitag and Dylan Boltonshakehands at the conclusionofthe game

Traralgon District CricketAssociation Gippsland CricketLeague

Ex-international plays in localfourth XI

CRICKET

By LIAM DURKIN

NEXTtimesomeone complains about playingC Grade, just tell them even an Australian cricketer played below that level oneday.

An interesting name appeared on theteamsheet for the Bundalaguah Yaks fourth grade teamin the Sale-MaffraCricket AssociationlastSaturday -none other than Travis Birt.

Birt, who played ahandful of twenty20 internationals for Australia in the early 2010s, suited up in aspecial appearance for his home club.

After being unable to attend the funeral of late legendary Bundalaguah Cricket Club stalwart Neil Wrigglesworth afortnight ago, Birt returned home to play amatch in honour of the great man’s legacy.

The 41-year-old took to the field alongside Neil’s son Greg, and granddaughter Megen Wrigglesworth, who also captained the side.

Call it fortuitous timing, but Birt was only able to play fourthsasall other senior grades were into thesecondday of matches. (In the SMCA, firsts, seconds and thirds all play two-dayers).

Taking to the College Astro,the Yaks (Bundalaguah has two fourth grade teams, the Yaks and the Bulls) batted first after winning the toss against Collegians.

The visitorscompiled 7/205 from their allotted 40 overs. Atight finish ensued, with College getting within17runsofthe target before being bowled out.

While the astro wicket at College was surely a drasticchange from the MCG, Birt played his part in the victory, scoring 32 off 26 balls, and taking three catches in the field.

For the sake of fair play, Birt didn’t shamelessly whack fourth gradersout of the park, although two balls did clear the fence.

He spent the best part of 10 overs out in the middle, just rotating the strike with the occasional boundary (four in total).

The person who hadthe distinction of taking his wicketwas Will Foster, ayoung kidstill in the Under 14s.

Surely he will be telling all thekidsatschool about that. Maybe even the grandkids in 60 years from now.

Although thesight of an Australianplayer in the fourthsmight have evokedsome criticism, what athrill it must havebeen for thoseinthe Bundalaguah camp to play alongside aplayer of Birt’s calibre.

Regardlessofthe result,juniorplayers on either side were also given possibly the best batting lesson in terms of demonstration they could ever have asked for.

As well as four international twenty20s, Birt played 88 firstclass matches and 109 domestic twenty20s during his professional career, mainly for Tasmania and Hobart Hurricanes.

He maintained an incredible strikerateof129 in first class twenty20s, and secured areputation for brutal strokeplay when he posted 145 against South Australia in 2004/05, which was the highest score in Tasmania’s one-day history.

Duringhis career he played withthe likesof Brett Lee, Michael Clarke and David Warner, and against players such as Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag and Andrew Flintoff.

His last match forBundalaguah was in 2017, where he duly made afirst grade century.

Undermanned Goannas put up good fightagainst Yarra Valley

CRICKET VETERANS

ASEVERELY depleted Gippsland Goannas Over 60 cricket team travelled to Wandin North to take on the Yarra Valley Veterans team on Sunday.

With Ian Southall opening the bowling for the National Over 70 team in Brisbane, five other regular players attending acarnival in NSW, and captain Rino Metlikovec injured, Yarra Valley won the toss and batted first.

Peter Anton and Rob Bacchetti opened the bowling and the first wicket fell in the fourthover, when Bacchetti bowled the opening bat.

After eight overs Barrie Nunn, and Moe recruit Chris de Vent, came on when the score was 1/33.

Rob Taylor took agood catch from de Vent’s bowling to have Yarra Valley 2/69 after 12 overs.

The bowling changes came thick and fast as six different bowlers were used within seven overs!

Yarra Valley had reached 116 at the 20 over drinks break.

Ray Floyd, Neil Meredith and Andrew Smith were all used before then.

Another recruit,Traralgon’s Mark Brown, entered the attack after drinks and took areturn catch from Bill Dobson in his second over.

RobTaylor bowled some of his straight breaks andinduced an error for Yarra Valley to be 4/170 after 30 overs.

Bacchetti and Meredith both returned for second spells, and de Vent took over the wicket keeping duties to allow Ian Gibson to have abowl.

Ten Goannas had rolled theirarms over,with Bacchetti, de Vent, Meredith, Smith, Brown and Taylor each taking awicket.

Taylor, Meredith, Brown and de Vent each took acatch, and Meredith and Nunn each effected a run out as the Yarra Valleyveterans reached 8/223 from their 40 overs.

The Goannas innings started disastrously as Floyd was run out in the first over, without facing aball: arare diamond duck!

Taylor started well,and had been joined by Anton, who made aquick17before being caught offa slow bowler.

Brown hit 10 before falling in the same way.

Meredith was bowled for one and the Goannas were just 4/41 at this stage.

Bacchettijoined Taylor, taking the score to 79 in the18thover, then Bacchetti was run out for 10.

Taylor had retired for awell-made 42 from 36 ballsand Gibson and de Venttook the Goannas to drinks at 5/88.

Their partnership continued, both retiring after facing 30 balls. Bob Duljas had ashort innings, Jim Armstrong retired after an aggressive innings of 40 from 24 balls, Nunn made five allowing Gibson and de Vent to return to the crease.

They finished with 19 and 17 respectivelyand Andrew Smith was 13 not out as the Goannaswere all out for 185 in the 38th over.

The Goannas face theVic Country Veteransthis weekend in adouble-header.

The Over60teamwill play at the Traralgon Reserve on Sundayand the Over70team plays at Yinnar on Monday.

Practice continues at Glengarry on Wednesday from 4.45pm.

Gangsta’sparadise: Jim Armstrong from Churchill attacksinhis innings of 40 not out from 22 balls.

Debut: Mark BrownfromTraralgon cutsinhis firstgame forthe Goannas

Long wayfromthe MCG: Former AustralianplayerTravis Birtwas backhome on Saturday, playing aone-offgame forBundalaguah.

Photo:Tom Parry

Welcome: Goannas recruit Chris de Vent from Moe drives

Power: PeterAnton from Toongabbie drives Photossupplied

Cricket lives on in Walhalla

CRICKET

By LIAM DURKIN

THOSE miners must have really loved their cricket. Either that or they wanted to get as far away from being underground as possible.

What better way to do it than to build acricket ground on topofa mountain 200 metres above the Walhalla township?

The pioneers of the late 1800s, who sliced the rugged mountain with picks, shovels and wheelbarrows, weresurely looking downwith pride last Sunday, beaming that their little old ground was still being used all those years later.

Not only has the groundlived on,sotoo has Walhalla Cricket Club.

WalhallaCricket Club commemorated its 150th anniversary on Sunday,welcoming Melbourne Cricket Club, just as it had for acentenary match in 2007.

As legendhas it, former Australiancaptain Warwick Armstrong wagered he could hit aball from the oval onto the roof of the Star Hotel down below in 1907.

Current day traversers of the Walhalla Cricket Ground can read all about Armstrong’s exploits, as well as other sportingasides that tookplace, thanks to anumberofinformation boards posted on the track up the hill.

The track itselfzigzags its way to the cricket ground, and takes about 20 minutes one way. Anumberofplayers, wanting to take in the true Walhalla cricket experience,madethe trek up the hill on Sunday -it’sjustsomething you ‘have to do’ if you’re playing agameatWalhalla.

Players were given some assistance, as their kit bags were transported up by car -the mode of transportreplacing the horse and cart mainly used to get to the Walhalla ground in the early part of the 20th century.

Without stating the obvious, one can’t imagine Walhalla cricketersbackthen would have arrived with much more than the clothes on their back to get agameofcricket going.

Upon arrival to the ground,all wasinreadinessfor the firstballoftwo twenty20 games to be bowled.

An old chalk scoreboard, thought to be from the 1960s, had been resurrected for the occasion, while tree trunks marked the oval’s perimeter. Standing in the centre, with the clouds feeling as though they were within touching distance,notions of how hustling this place must have been during the town’speak years when the populationswelled around 4000 rang true.

To the present day, those who had the distinction of playing cricket at possibly the highest altitude ever began to take the field.

Up first was Blackbridge Cricket Club (a team of Gippslanders that competeinwinter cricket) up against the Melbourne Cricket Club XXIX Club (‘The 29ers’).

Blackbridgedecided to bowl, and restricted their opponents to under 100.

TheGippsland side chased thetotal with little fuss, paving the way for the main event: Walhalla vs Melbourne.

The Walhalla team was captained by Morwell CricketClub’s Mark Smith, and came together through various connections to the club and township.

The home side, (who had never played together), batted first and put up agood fight against astrong MCC which contained state and Victorian Premier Cricket players.

Regardless of the result, cricket was the real winner, and showcased the potential for the Walhalla ground as amarquee venuefor future matches.

The club, which is affiliated withTraralgon District Cricket Association, hasplanstohost even more matches into the future, and hopefully one day, build clubrooms overlooking the arena.

If Sunday was anything to go by, the Walhalla

Cricket Clubhas avery active and enthusiastic committee, determined to preserve the proud history of cricket in the area.

Walhalla hasproduced aTest cricketer after all Membershipisavailabletothe WalhallaCricket Club.

Those interested can getintouchwith committee member Dale PotterOAM via dalepotter@hotmail com.

Mountaintop cricket

TheExpress’own Liam Durkin playedinone of the gamesatWalhallaonSunday.

Here, he provides afew insights

Stateofthe

ground

CONSIDERING it is hardly used, and what it has been through in recent years, (flood, bushfire) the ground is in decent condition.

You can certainly play ‘a’ game of cricket there without any issue.

Respectfully however, Iwould not deem it fit to play aproper match for competition points in its current state just yet.

Like agolf course, there are exposed tree roots in sections along the boundary, and rocks coming through the surface.

These were painted whiteonSundaytowarn players, who certainly weren’t putting their bodies on the line.

At one stage Ichased aballfrom backwardsquare to the fine leg boundary. Ordinarily, Iwould have dived to stopthe ball crossingthe fence, but seeing onlyrocks beneathme, thought it would have been quite along and painful trip to LRH if Ihad one side of my body ripped to pieces.

Before the game, we agreed that any six would simply go down as adot ball.

The square boundaries would not be much bigger than 40 metres, so therewould have been countless lost balls if guys started teeing off.

One playerinstinctively flicked aball off his pads over square leg for amaximum,and promptly put his hand up in apology as if to say ‘I didn’t mean that’.

Looking at how small the ground was, Icouldn’t helpbut thinkhow big scoreswould havebeen when football was played there.

You could literally kick agoal from the centre.

Thepoorcentre half forward back then wouldn’t have been needed at all.

Journeyupand back

STRANGELY enough, it is quickertowalk up the hill than it is to drive.

The walk takesabout20minutes, while the drive takes you on awindy dirt track for 10 or so kilometres.

The drive goes some distance out of town, before

turning right off the main road and then heading back toward the ground.

In aword, the road to the cricket ground is ‘rough’.

It is only one lane for most of the journey, and with anumberofhairpin turns and cliff faces, certainly makes for abumpy ride.

Needing to drive up to get my bag after the game, Ispent part of thejourney thinking ‘I really hope someone isn’t coming the other way’.

Most of the journey howeverwas spent wondering if the little old Expresscar would actuallymake it up thehill.

Happy to report we got out in one piece

So,ifaHyandai Excel can make it up the Walhalla cricket hill, most cars should be able to.

The sight of an orange Mustang in the cricket ground carpark gave me some confidence Iwas going to be safe.

We can now add ‘top of aWalhallamountain’ to the list of strange places the Express editorial car has been.

To think of the locations Express journos have taken that car over the years.

Experience

GRANTED it was asocial game and we weren’t playing for sheepstations,(or should Isay,for gold) it was still agreat time playing in aunique location All in all, it was abit of fun mixing with fellow cricket lovers.

The astro pitch took some getting use to as the synthetic actually ended at the return crease (where the stumps are).

This meant, when you bowled, your back foot landed on the turf and your front on the concrete. Ordinarily, the concrete extends afew metres further.

That being said, the day was filled with positives, and hopefullyWalhallacan get more games up and running.

The ground has hosted amatch forpremiership

Let’s play: Readyfor cricketaction in Walhalla.

pointsinthe TDCA before,and speakingto president Keiran Watson, they are hoping to get awomen’s competition going in the near future.

Appropriately takingonthe nickname ‘The Miners’, the club has some great merchandise, including avery stylish baggy green cap.

Thinking abit outside the square here, but with Brian Taylor having aholiday house in Walhalla, could there be scope to get him involved?

Imagine BT commentating cricket games up at Walhalla.

Boy oh boy.

Surely we could hear abit of “that was out of bounds” whenever aball gets lost.

Anycomparison?

IN terms of unique cricket grounds, Walhalla would surely take some beating.

Wes Pump Oval in Callignee, which has one side linedbyforest, offerssome sort of comparison locallyfrom alayoutsense.

With obvious apologies, some other picturesque grounds in Gippsland are Toongabbie, Yallourn North and Jindivick.

Toongabbie’s groundwill be aphotographers dreamonce the white picket fencegoes allthe way around, while it is quite anice sight playing at Yallourn North, facing north and seeing the mountains in the background.

Jindivick’s groundiswellworth avisit, as less than ametre separates part of the boundary’s edge from the valley below, with views into Warragul.

Further afield, the Hume and Hovel Cricket Ground in central Victoria is apopular destination.

The ground is located in Strath Creek, andis actually areplica of Lords -ithas the same slope gradient and number of pickets around the fence.

With more exposure set to come, who knows, Walhalla might even get aturf wicket one day. They wouldn’t be the only club in Baw Baw hoping to see that happen.

Historic: Walhalla CricketClub prepares to take the field on Sunday.

Photograph supplied

Winners: BlackbridgeCricketClub, madeupofplayers from across Gippsland, playedthe first game of the day. The Express’ ownLiamDurkin is pictured front rowonthe left. Photograph Supplied

Relic: Theold scoreboardwas resurrected for the occasion Photograph Liam Durkin

Photograph Liam Durkin

Welcome: Walhalla CricketGround, facing south.

Photograph Liam Durkin

Hutton’sjourney of alifetime

AMERICAN FOOTBALL

By TOM HAYES

GIPPSLANDER abroad, Tom Hutton, has recently shared his experiences fromhis time in the US, while playing college football for Oklahoma State Cowboys.

Originally from Yallourn North then Newborough, Hutton, along with his mate, Jordy Sandy, first tried punting at ProKick Australia.

Thetwo worked together at the Maryvalemill from 2016 to 2018, alot of the time they were on the same shift, working in alittle control room.

Aftersometime, it became evident that adream they didn’t know they had, would soon become a reality.

Hutton was offered ascholarship to Oklahoma StateUniversity -moving into atown called Stillwater, while his mate, Sandy, went alittle further south to Texas Christian University(TCU) in Fort Worth, just outside of Dallas.

In the 2022 season, Hutton played his final year of college football, as the punter for the Cowboys.

Throughout the four years in Oklahoma, Hutton has described it as amixture of “the most amazing time” and “the toughest time”.

“The first year was unrealplaying football in front of huge crowds and living acrazy dream, whilemy wife Kelsey, and Iwere immersing ourselves in the US culture,” he said.

“Then COVID hit after we were here for about a year,and we were effectively locked out of Australia for two years.

“Although it was atough time, Ithink we grew enormously as people over that period, and we really begantoput thingsinperspective and think about what is important in our lives.”

Hutton’s college football career has plenty of good memories, but he nails his favourite down in a moment, where he does whatapunter doesn’t normally do.

“It’sprettyhard for punters to have highlight worthy moments,just due to the nature of the gig, but against Baylorinmyfirst year (2019), we ran a fake punt, so Iactually got to throw apass, which surprisingly went perfectly to plan,” Hutton said.

“It wasour big homecoming gamesothe stadium was packed, andfakepunts don’thappenvery often so the crowd wentnuts, that was areally surreal experience.”

Outsideoffootball,Hutton was able to experience the American culture in many different ways.

“Just the whole experience of livinginthe states and the opportunities it opens up,” he said.

“Kelsey and Iwill randomlydecide to go watch an

NBA gameevery now and then, so we can just drive 45 minutes to the stadium and watch a(Oklahoma City) Thunder game, or drive down to Dallas for an NFLgame, or just duringthe weekatany time of the year we can go watch the other Oklahoma State teams playing basketball or soccer, softball, wrestling.

“It’s just avery lively lifestyle that I’m going to miss.”

As acollegestudent,Hutton had to studyacourse while in the US.

While there, he studied aBachelors degree in Construction Engineering Technologyand in around three months, Hutton will graduate with his degree.

As previouslymentioned, Hutton entered this experience with his good mate, Sandy, and the two were able to play against each other on some occasions.

“We only live about four hours away (from each other),with him (Sandy)being in Dallas, so we still catch up quite abit.

“(Lining up against Sandy) was unreal. To be working together in Australia and then allofa sudden we are playing against each other in a

Traralgonhome to state champs

CROQUET

By TOM HAYES

THE Traralgon Croquet Club claimed another Victorian Champion last week, when Shane Downie took out the singles and doubles championships.

Over the Australia Day long-weekend, the VCA Victoria Championships were under way.

From January 26 to 27 the VCA Open Doubles were in action in the round robin format.

Downie his sister, Julie Beasley from Warragul, took out the doubles competition, by two hoops to Richards Parks and John van der Touw from Monash.

Downie and Beasley won all nine games to achievegold, whilethe runners-up only took seven wins, losing to Downie and Beasley and third-placed pairing -Richard Hingst and Claire Keating.

In the following two days, on January 28 and 29, Downie would achieve gold onceagainby taking out the Open Singles Championship.

Downie progressed to the knockout phase by topping BlockCwithanet hoopstotal of 22, nine more than thenext best,Lester Hughes from Williamstown.

The top two of Blocks A, B, Cand Dwould progress to the knockouts.

In the first round of the knockouts, Downie defeated OwenDickinson of Essendon -who came second in Block B-10-8, progressing to theSemi Final.

With one game to go until the final, Downie worked his magic and progressed, defeating Block Awinner, Kevin Beard from Yarrawonga, 10-7.

The Final was abest-of-three, he faced Chas Quinn, alsofrom Yarrawonga,who topped Block D.

In the firstmatch, Downiewon 7-6,but Quinn took out the second match 7-4, forcing athird and final match.

But Downie proved to be too good, taking out the third game 7-3, and simultaneously taking out the Singles Championship.

sport we don’t really know much about, on the other side of the world, in front of 60,000 people andmillions on TV.

“I still pinch myself in moments like that, and it’s awesome to experience it with agood mate.”

Hutton highlighted the biggest difference between college football and local Aussie Rules is simply the size of the two.

“We have our own plane that fliesustoaway games, then we get police escorted along the highways in busses to 100,000-seat stadiums that are packed every singleweek.

“Ourgamesare broadcast on national TV and all around the world.

“Most people outside of the US don’t realise, but college football is actually bigger than the NFL in many ways. If you ask someone over here which NFL team they barrack for, most of them don’t have ateam. But ask them which college they support and you can almost guarantee they name one.”

As much as he’d like to move back home, Hutton says he will miss the US.

“The experiences that are possible by living over here, and the buzzing, vibrant atmosphere of Stillwater is very unique and we will definitely miss it,” he said.

Huttonhas takenawaysomanyexperiences from his journey.

“I feel like every few months, we are ticking off anew bucket list item. But Ithink Iwill probably

look back on the tough times the most fondly, in aweird way, due to the growth that came from in and the perspective that it has given us,” he said.

Uponhis return, Hutton looks forward to rejoining forces with the current reigning premiers of the North Gippsland Football League-Yallourn Yallourn North Jets.

“Watching fromafar, I’vebeen so proudofthe progress YYN has made over the last six to seven years, as aclub -not just with on field success,” Hutton said.

“They have builtsuch ayoung,fun, family atmosphere and Ican’t wait to get back involved in it!”

Hutton is only now recovering from atorn ACL, which he suffered in October last year, so we might have to wait until2024tosee him don the Jets guernsey.

While Hutton is returningfrom his college football experience, it leaves the potentialfor most Australians to get involved in the sport.

“Just get out and try it,” he said.

“You’re never going to feelcompletely ready, but you’ll figure it out as yougo. That goes for anything in life.

“Too many people wait to do something they really want to do because they don’t feel like they belong or they don’t feel completely ready, and often they never do it at all because of this mindset.

“Just get started and you’ll learn on the way. Everyone else is just trying to figure it out too!”

Go long: TomHuttoninaction forthe Oklahoma StateCowboys,during aBig 12 Championship game in 2021

Photographs supplied

Valleyboys: TomHutton(right) picturedwithgood mate JordySandy,asthe twofaced offagainst each other in the US

Familyfortune: Brother-sister duo Shane Downie (right) and JulieBeasleywon the Open Double Championship together

Double-champion: Shane Downie was victoriousinboththe Open Singles and Doubles Photographs supplied

Red Devils are ready for 2023

SOCCER LVSL

MOE Unitedhas appointed senior men’s player Harley Robinson as coach of its women’s team for the 2023 Latrobe Valley Soccer League season.

The Red Devils have every intention of fielding awoman’s team for the first time since 2018. Training has commenced on Monday nights from 6.30pm. If thereare any females interestedinhavinga kick as an outlet for fitness or to be involved in aclubwhich promotes social engagement and enjoyment,you are welcome to come along and have atry out at Olympic Park, Vale Street Moe (next door to the Moe Outdoor Swimming Pool). For more information, you can phone Robinson on 0400 119 415.

Moe Unitedseniors, reservesand second division preseason trainingisalsowell underway.

Coaches are Kevin O’Farrell and Connor O’Hanlon.

RUNNING

By TOM HAYES

RUNNING for acause is Traralgon local, Blake

Bourne, as he attempts to not only break aworld record, but raise thousands of dollars for charity in the meantime.

Last week, Bourne announced his world record attempt which will take place at the start of August, to run across the Simpson Desert.

“On August 3rd I’mattempting to breakthe world record for the fastest person to cross the Simpson Desert on foot,” Bourne said.

“I’ll be running 380 kilometres, from one side to the other, in less than three days and eight hours.”

The current record is held by Pat Farmer, who ran 379 kilometres in three days, eight hours and 36 minutes, back in 1998.

Bourne is adetermined individual, seen in his previous projects.

He has begUn aboxing career, which is now on hold for this endeavour, as well as owning and operating Blake Bourne Photography.

Manyfactors have contributed to Bourne’s hunger to do this world record attempt.

“Just to challenge myself,agoal to work towards givesmea reason to wake up each morning,” Bourne said.

“What I’m doing this run for is to raise money for Black Dog Institute.”

The Black Dog Institute is anot-for-profitfacility for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.

“I’ve been through afew mental health battles myself,” Bourne said.

“I’ve seen mates go through the same thing and watched mates lose people to suicide

“The impact and seeing how it affect their lives,I don’t want anyone else to go through that pain, so I’m doing this to hopefully spark some change and bring those numbers back down because they’re not looking good.”

On the journey with him will be asmall group of three, including himself.

“My dad will be driving -he’llbethe support vehicle and have food and water, and then I’ll have avideographer...to come along and record it,” he said.

The conditionsofthe Simpson Desert can be unforgiving; temperatures can range from extremely high to extremely low and the terrain is mostly sandy which is hard to train for.

“I’m expecting to burn around 15,000 calories a day, so I’ll be just trying to get in as much food as Ipossibly can,” Bourne said.

“Obviously it’s going to be achallenge to get in that much food.”

With the calorie deficit that Bourne is facing,

he is expecting to lose anywhere between 10-20 kilograms during the run.

Bourne has been training with marathon runner and online running coach, Sean Bowes, who has provided Bourne with aweek-by-week schedule to continue to progress.

“Training is good at the moment, at the moment I’mdoing onelongrun aweek, and my kilometres are increasing by two (kilometres) every week,” Bourne said.

“Soatthe moment I’m up to 40 (kilometres) and then at the end of this month I’ll be doing two long runs, so two 50-kilometre runs.

“I’ll peak in July, do three 100-kilometre runs, back-to-back-to-back, and then leave at the end of July.

“For my run I’ll be doing 120 kilometres aday forthree anda bit days.”

For now, Bourne will be continuing to ramp up his training, slowly doing longer runs as he edges closer to August.

To learn moreinformationabout Bourne and his run, go to blakesbigredrun.com whichgoes into more detail.

Donation information is also on the website, where youcan contribute to Bourne’s $38,000 goal -$100 for every kilometre ran.

“100 per cent of the donations go to the Black Dog Institute,” Bourne said.

World record run attempt Mighty fighting Hawks in Morwell

FOOTBALL

By TOM HAYES

THE Hawthorn Hawks have completed the final leg of their Morwellpreseason camp, finishing with amorning session at Ronald Reserve and some hill sprints at Federation University.

SinceMonday, January 30, theHawks have been in the LatrobeValley for apre-season camp,asthe club looks to tie up some loose ends.

At the end of the 2022 season, ruckman and club captain, Ben McEvoy, retired leaving agaping hole in the squad.

Not only did coach Sam Mitchell have to identify anew number one ruckman, but also anew club captain.

Mitchell was the 41st captain of the Hawks from 2008 to 2010,inthose 15 years, Hawthorn have had four different captains and will soon have afifth. Despite the patching needing to be done, the Hawthorn teammateshad four days to bond more and become abetter team, following adisappointingyet characterbuilding 2022, which saw them finish 13th on the ladder.

Returning to Morwell was Hawks’ defender Changkuoth (CJ) Jiath, who grew up in Morwell before moving to Kew to play football at Xavier College -where he was drafted from.

“(It’s)very good to be home…obviously Iwas playing at Morwell Tigers and growing up here, I’vestill gotthat special feeling when coming home and interacting with the fans and friends when I come back,” Jiath said.

“It’sdefinitely awesome to be backhere, training at Morwell East as well.”

While in town, Jiath was able to catch up with former coach-the current Gippsland Power coach, Rhett McLennan.

“Rhett (McLennan) was one of my development coaches at Gippsland Power,” Jiath said.

“I shared alot of work with him and he’s developed me in areally special way and I’ve really engaged with him alot of thelastthree or four years.”

Jiath noted the significance of an AFL club coming into the LatrobeValley, reminiscingon the time he watched AFL clubs come into town.

“When Iwas ayoung kid it was (Western) Bulldogs and Collingwood that camedown,”Jiath said.

“It was just agreat feeling to share that moment.

“I try to give moments to fans, when they come to training and stuff like that because Iknow how much it meanstothem.”

Jiath hintedatthe possibility of ateammate, James Sicily, becoming the captain, although nothing is yet to be announced.

“He used to be afiery head -James Sicily -but it’s so nice to see him develop in this way of being caring and really open towards histeammates,” Jiath said.

“We’re starting to see areally good side of him now that we can possiblysee him as acaptain, guys like Dylan Moore as well and Frosty (Sam Frost).”

Jiath spoke on his aspirations on joining the leadership group sometime in the future.

“I’m starting to formareally good identity, in

speaking up and leading,” Jiath said. “It’s going to be achallenge Iguess,bit obviously I’m working to it and gettingbetter everyday.It’s something I’m looking forward to in the future.”

Also attending the press conference was former GippslandPower player, Jai Newcombe, who believes the young list has the ability to teach and grow.

“It’s exciting, we’ve got agreat rangeofleaders and reallydiverse guysright throughoutthatcan certainly take on the role,” Newcombe said.

Newcome, 21, had an outstanding 2022 season, coming second in Hawthorn’s Best and Fairest as well as ranking third in the Rising Star.

“I think it’s pretty easy to reset being in the system for two years now, still alot of up-side with what’s capable for me,” Newcombe said.

“It’s allabout strivingfor what’snextand not really settling with agood year last year, but there’s still so much more growth and potential there.”

Newcombe didn’t appear to be worried with the loss of talent throughout the midfield, reiterating the fact that maturity remains within the squad.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge it’ll present there,” he said.

Newcombe’s connection to Morwell wasn’tas significant as Jiath, explaining he visited every now and again.

“I’ve obviously been here alittle bit with (Gippsland) Power, Iwas based 45 minutes from here, floated through with afew interleague things more so for cricket rather than actually football,” he said.

“It’s nice to be back, Inow my way around. As muchasI’m close to home but I’mnot home,I still feel comfortable around here.”

The Hawks willlook to keep the momentum rolling and maintain the fitness they have built up throughout this pre-season, as pre-season games begin at the end of the month.

Hawthorn have two pre-season games; first against reigning premiers Geelong on Thursday, February23, then they play Collingwood on Thursday, March 2.

Training nights are Tuesday and Thursday at Olympic Park from 6.30pm. For any player looking to play at aclubwhich sets high standards on and off the park and has agreat social atmosphere, you are most welcome to come along and train with the squads. For more information, phone O’Farrell on 0400 611 013.

Moe United juniors and Mini Roos have also stated training on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm to 6pm.

Age groups Moe United will be looking to field in are: Under 5s, U7s, U9s, U11s, U13.5s and U16s.

All past, current and new players, male or female are invited to come along and try out.

Junior coaches for2023are:Harley Devlin (MiniRoos), Dan McKean (U11), Andrew Bednarski (U13.5). Under 16s TBC.

Up close: Hawthorn’sKarlAmon with young Hawks fans during the clinic at Morwell East. Photograph supplied

Foracause: BlakeBourneisrunning 380 kilometres across the Simpson Desert, while raising moneyand awareness formental health.

Photograph TomHayes

Lacing up: BlakeBournewill be runningacross theSimpson desert, beginningonAugust 3.