Gippsland Times Tuesday 16 July 2024

& MAFFRA SPECTATOR Times

BRINGING THEM HOME

Stratford local and Vietnam veteran

John Bryant has helped uncover the bodies of 20 fallen soldiers his battalion killed during the Battle of Balmoral in 1968 Pictured here with his son, Josh Bryant, and Daisy the dog, Mr Bryant shares how his information led to the discovery of Vietnamese martyrs in a B-52 bomb crater.

STORY - PAGES 4-6

Photo: Stefan Bradley

TWO Yarram Plaza Hot Bread staff members and acleaner were tied up during an armed robbery last Friday morning, with the alleged offenders -a man and awoman -holding them at up at gunpoint.

police said they were investigating the armed robbery.

The offenders fledthe scene after failing to steal cash out of the bakery register and an ATM, takingtwo pies withthem. Afterwards,the bakery,who said the incident "scarred our staff for life", were giventhe clear to re-open and did so around 11.30am.

"Please be kind and patient with our staff, they have been through alot and they have alot of cleaning to do," they wrote on Facebook.

"We would like to personallythank everyone for messages and calls of concern."

All three workers were sent home for the day. Yarram locals offered to buy stock for the day to show their support.

In astatement to the GippslandTimes,

"Officers have been told an unknown male and female entered abusiness on JamesStreetabout 4.15am.Itis believed both offenders, who were armed with firearms,attempted to steal an ATM and tills but were unsuccessful and fled the scene,” the statement said.

“There were three staff members present during the incident, but no one was physically injured.

“The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam or CCTV footage, are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com. au.”

Yar ram Pla za Hot Bre ak own er, Kathryn Irelandtold the ABC there was aneed for moreregular police in the town, as the Yarram Police Station is not a24-hour station. The nearest is Sale, more than 72 kilometres away.

"We did, unfortunately, have to wait avery long period for the police to turn up because there was no-one on call here at the time," she said.

"They had to come from Sale, through kangaroo-infested roads."

Statisticsfromthe Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) recently released show that Yarram has seen the largest rise in crime recorded within Wellington Shire, withanincreaseofmorethan 31 per cent overthe past year (to March 31, 2024). Across Wellington, crime is up by 9.5 per cent.

The rate of recordedoffences across the state is up by 5.5per cent, while the number of offences increased by 7.9 per cent to 535,673. Property and deception offences had the largest increase in the last 12 months, up 14.6 per cent.

The main driver of the increase was theft. Family incidents increasedby 3.1 per cent in the last 12 months, with 95,982 Victorian incidents recorded.

CSA Chief Statistician, Fiona Dowsley said that “there has been a17per cent increase in theft offences recorded in the last 12 months, driven by the highestevernumbers of steal fromaretail store offences, as well as sizable increases in steal from amotor vehicle and burglary offences”.

“This rapid increase in crimes involving the acquisition of property may be related to cost of living pressures. The increase in prope rty-related crime was largestcontributor to the overall increase in crime in the last year. Alleged offenders being recordedfor these crimes are drawn from all age groups,especiallysteal fromaretail store which is above pre-COVID levels,” Ms Dowsley said. Specifically, thefts from retailstore incidents increased by 38.3 per cent or by 3901 to 14,078 alleged offender incidents.

Chester: Mobile Service Centre‘alifeline’

MOBILE Service Centres are alifeline for rural and regional areas, bringing acomprehensive range of essentialgovernmentservices to residents who lack access to alocal Services Australia office, according to Federal Member for Gippsland, DarrenChester.

Mr Chester is encouraging Gippslanders to take advantage of Services Australia's Mobile Service Centre Blue Gum, which will be in Heyfield,Maffra and Briagolong later this month,offeringlocals

the important opportunity to access Centrelink, Medicare, NDIS,and Department of Veterans' Affairs services.

"The Mobile Service Centre offers assistance to ruralfamilies,olderAustralians, students, job seekers, people with disabilities, carers, farmers, and self-employed individuals," Mr Chester said.

"It's also avaluable chance to learn about government payments and services you might qualify for.

Services Australia’sMobile Service Centre, Blue Gum,will be in Heyfield, Maffra and Briagolong later this month.

"The friendly and professionalMobileService Centre staff can help you with Centrelink and Medicarematters,such as creating amyGov account, applyingfor new payments, updating your information, and more," he said.

"If you are aveteran or afamily member of one, you can also get information and support from the Department of Veterans' Affairs."

Services Australia's Mobile Service Centre will be in Heyfield near the CommunityResource Centre on George Street from 9.30am until 4pm on Wednesday, July 31. The Mobile Service Centre will then be in Maffra near the rotunda on Johnson Street from 9.30am until 4pm on Thursday, August 1, and in Briagolong near Briagolong Community HouseonAvon Street from 9.30am until 4pm on Friday, August 2.

To find out more, go to: servicesaustralia.gov.au/

Program to open pathways for support staff

THE state government is launching anew pilot program to allow more than 300 dedicated Education Support staff and Koorie Education Support Officers to gainteaching qualifications while working in schools.

The program will enable rural and regional education support staff—who are employed in various roles such as teaching assistants, integration aides, and cultural liaison officers—to pursue afull teaching qualification and help combat the Australia-wide issue of teacher shortages.

The government said the new undergraduate employment-based programs will provide the opportunity for people whowork in regional and rural schools as Education Support staff to study and qualify as ateacher while continuing to undertake paidwork in aVictorian government school. These programs will provide asupported pathwayfor existing Education Support staff and members of Victorian government school communities to upskill.

Minister for Education Ben Carroll launched the $13.9 million initiative last Thursday to trial undergraduate-level employment-based teaching

degrees to upskill staff working in Victorian government secondary and specialist schools.

“The undergraduatelevelemployment-based teaching degree initiative opens up teaching to a broader pool of diverse candidates by supporting stafftogainteaching qualificationswhile working in our schools,” Mr Carroll said.

Set to start in 2025, the programwill be delivered by Federation University Australia and La Trobe University and will support people in studying and qualifying as teacherswhile undertaking paid employment.

Participants will be supported with Department of Education-funded living expenses scholarships, relocation incentives, and mentoring support. In the final years of the program, they will be eligible to start teaching as paraprofessionals.

Both universities’ programs will focus on supporting participation by Education Support staff in rural and regional Victoria. At the same time, La Trobe University’sprogram will encourage participation fromKoorie Education Support Officers.

Interested candidates currentlyemployed as

Education Support staff should approach their principal to discuss their interest in upskilling as teachers. Further communications about how to apply for the programs in 2025 will be published on the Department’s website.

The FederationUniversity program is focused on specific locations. In 2025 the program will enrol people living and working in the Wimmera and in Gippsland (Warragul and Bairnsdale), then in 2026 the focuswill be on Warrnambool, and in 2027 Ballarat and surrounds.

The qualification will be delivered in amixed online and face-to-face mode. Federation University has along history of educating future teachers in Gippsland and has acampus in Churchill. The La Trobe Nexus programwill be available to peopleworking in rural and regional secondary or specialist schools anywhere in Victoria and will commence in 2025. The qualification will be delivered largely online, to allow access for people in rural and regional areas. At the startofeach semester,there will be face-to-face intensives workshops.

Photo: Contributed

CarbonNet project on the table

Philip Hopkins

ABUSINESS case for Gippsland’s CarbonNet Project is set to be presented to the federaland stategovernments, the project’s chief, Jane Burton, told amajor energy conference in Perth.

Ms Burton, the Director of CarbonNet, said the project was currently undertaking market soundings with adiverse range of stakeholders. Theseincluded customers, developers, contractors, equity, and debt investors to inform the commercial modelling, strategy and entity type for the project moving forward.

CarbonNet's planned 100-kilometre pipe line fro mL oy Yang to the Gippsland Basinwill enablemultiple CO2 industrial capture projects to share CarbonNet’s infrastructure. Negotiations are continuing with landholders in South Gippsland potentially affected by the pipeline.

Ms Burton, who grew up in the Latrobe Valley, has worked in the commercial and public sectors for more than 30 years. She was previously Head of Resources for the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, was awarded the 2019 Most Exceptional WomaninResources Award and is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Energy.

Ms Burton told the Energy Producers confe rence that Carb onNe tb eg an in 2009 when the Australian Prime Ministerwas Kevin Rudd and after the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period had begunin2008. The Paris Agreement was still six years away.

Climate Change mitigati on was becoming an urgentissue,and the federal government’s Carbon Capture and Storage(CCS) Flagship program was createdtosupporttoa variety of CO2 capture, transportationand storage demonstration projects, she said.

The aim of the program was to promote the use of CCS technology, demonstrate Australia’s storage resources,support trials,build capacity, andcreatelinks with existing international projects.

Ms Burton said CarbonNet, partof the originalCCS Flagship program,had beenfunded by the federal government and Victorian state governmentsince 2010.

“The value of CarbonNet, an early CCS hub concept, was the excellent geology in the Gippsland Basin and theclose proximity of storage sites to the Latrobe Valley’s coal fired power stations,” she said.

Areport in 2009 identified the offshore Gippsland Basin as having the highest quality and largest capacity CO2 storage

reservoirs out of 25 major geological basins across Australia.

“This early thinking has since pivoted toward supporting new cleanindustries such as hydrogen, ammonia/fertiliser and biomass, and supporting the transition of abroad range of existing high emitters to low emissions technology, aided by drivers such as the safeguard mechanism.”

The safeguardmechanism regulates the greenhouseemissions of Australia’s biggest 215 companies.

Ms Burton said the projectover 14 yearshad achievedmanylegislative and regulatory firsts, such as being awarded the first Australian greenhousegas (GHG) assessment permit and obtaining approvals for multiple offshore investigations.

“This journey has helped to pave the way for current and future Australian CCS projects,” she said.

CarbonNetproposestoestablisha commercialscaleCCS hub thatwill enable new and existingdecarbonised industries to contribute to legislated government targets, such as Victoria’s 2035 emissions reduction target and a

net zero emissions outcome by 2045.

Ms Burton said CarbonNet manages two offshore GHG permitsfor sites in the Gippsland Basin -Pelican and Kookaburra.

“There is potential for CarbonNetto transportand store up to six million tonnesofCO2 per year at the initial Pelican site once fully operational. It willlikely take up to three years to reach this levelonce CarbonNet is commissioned. Additional storage capacity will be availableinfuture with expansion of the network to the Kookaburra site,” she said.

“Delivery of CarbonNet is anticipated to create jobs and investment relating both to the project and enabled industri es suc ha sh yd roge n, amm onia/ fertiliser and bioenergy.The project will also focusonfuture benefits for communities and landowners,including Traditional Owners in Gippsland.”

CarbonNet's planned 100-kilometre pipeline from Loy Yang to theGippsland Basin will consist of 80kmofburied onshore pipeline with about afurther 20km offshore, reaching multiple drill centres at the Pelicansite.

Ms Burton said regulatoryapprovals paved the way for consultations,with potentially affected landowners in September2023.

“The final proposed pipeline route will be confirmed through stakeholder engagement, field surveysand FrontEnd Engi neeri ng Des ign (FEE D) outcomes,” she said.

FEED was completed in February of this year.

“Thissignificant project milestone has provided data that informs the Pelican development concept, including preliminary cost estimate, material specifications and the construction timeline, as well as providing inputinto approvals documentation and procurement of longlead equipment,” she said.

“The project is currently progressing the primary regulatory approvals for the Pelican storage site to achieve the required injectionlicence. The environmental approvals process is anticipated to take several years. Acomprehensive community and stakeholder engagement process, in line with government guidelines, will accompany the approvals program.”

Ms Burton said Carbon Net, well knownacrossthe CCS industryand academia, was well understood in Gippsland and supported across local governments and industry groups such as Committee for Gippsland and local industry.

“The re gional trad ition al own ers (GLaWAC -Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation) are a key stakeholder,this relationship will soon expand with the development of the project’s culturalheritagemanagement plan,” she said.

Research showedthat CarbonNet had 64 per cent community awareness in Gippsland.The engineering aspect of the project interested local Gippsland males (largely ex-energy workers) with this group registering 79 per cent CCS awareness.

“The female cohort focused on safety and expediting climate change mitigationtoensureahealthy future fortheir children/grandchildren -registering 58 per cent CCS awareness,” she said.

The CarbonNet Community Reference Group, established in 2019 and chaired by Victoria’s LeadScientist,Amanda Caples,meets quarterly to receive project updates and discuss emerging issues.

Theproject also produces educational programs and events for primaryand secondary school students focusing on CCSasa decarbonisation tool, including an annualScienceWeek event, and sponsorshipofthe University of Melbourne CCS short course.

Delivery of CarbonNet is anticipated to create jobs and investment relating both to theproject and enabled industries such as hydrogen, ammonia/fertiliser and bioenergy. The project will also focus on future benefits for communities and landowners, including Traditional Owners in Gippsland.

JANE BURTON Director of CarbonNet

Ms Burton said adding to the complexity was Gippsland Basin being made Australia's first declared offshore wind zone in 2022.

Up to 12 offshore wind projects will likely to be awarded feasibility licences in 2024.

“The renewableenergyboom in the region also requires transmission infrastructurewithin the region.CarbonNet has connected with the Crown Estate in the UK to learn about their experiences while also proactively working with multiple adjacent and overlapping offshore and onshoreprojects in Gippsland,”she said.

“The goal is to not only to achieve coexistence, but to identify opportunitiesfor collaboration, such as data sharing, shared investigationsand community events, minimising impacts on stakeholders.”

CarbonNet’s latest update said in June, surveysonpublicland and private property were conducted where land access had beenagreed. Ecology surveys were completed in April, and in June, CarbonNet begangeotechnical surveys between Loy Yang and Golden Beach The aim is to “contribute to our technical knowledge of the current pipeline corridor and inform the final proposed route”, the update said.

CarbonNet Director,JaneBurton.

Photo: Contributed

Vietnam Warveteran recovers

Stefan Bradley

Vietnamese soldiers, and buried them in a crater More than 50 years later, Stratford resident and Vietnam veteran John Bryant has helped recover 20 bodies from that site, who were then honoured at a memorial in April this year

It was 56 years ago during the Vietnam War that the Battle of Balmoral changed Mr Bryant’s life forever

In May 1968, aged just 20 years old, Mr Bryant was part of the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Australia Regiment (3RAR) at Fire Support Base Balmoral, located 40 kilometres north-east of Saigon Vietnamese soldiers he helped kill were buried near the base

conflict, including Mr Bryant and fellow 3RAR veteran Brian Cleaver, along with Australian and Vietnamese officials, have for years searched for the buried Vietnamese fallen soldiers of 141 Regiment, 7 Division

The story of these digs was detailed in The Crater: A True Vietnam War Story documentary (2015), which can be watched on YouTube

“In March of 2019, I was at the last dig of my veteran mate

Brian

Cleaver.Hehad dug that same area on quite afew occasions, alltonoavail,” Mr Bryant, now aged 77, told the Gippsland Times

“I had been onsite with him on about four digs and I hadtold him and our embassy, plusMilitary 7 in the provinceofBìnhDuong, thatthey will never find them there.”

Mr Bryant remarkably had both memories and battle photos from Balmoral, and worked with others afterCOVID restrictionseased to locate the crater, finding 20 fallen soldiers, with another 22 believed to be in the area.

“I knewfull well that if we find the gun pit (at the Fire Support Base), we will find the bodies. In January 2020 Iput ateam together. COVID hit and it put things on hold,” Mr Bryant said.

“But whenVietnam opened up again Icontinued with various reports to Vietnamofficials but Ihad no response. In November of 2023Ireturned to Vietnam to weave apaththrough various contacts I had gathered from digs from before.

“The Vietnamese Government and the Australian Embassywere on the back footfrom previous failed digs, butmynew information was so correct that I had to overcome those little hurdles.”

In March, Mr Bryant along with two team members and personnel fromMilitary 7began their dig.

On April 1, the first body was discovered in a B52 bombcrater, and more wereuncovered. It was an amazing achievement for all involved, as the conditions during the digs were very challenging.

“20 martyrs were recovered in all, along with some equipment and personal items,” Mr Bryant said

The Vietnameserefertotheir war deadas martyrs. Mr Bryant said“the faith hadbeen restored”between Australia and Vietnam over previouslet downs for the Vietnamese families and Vietnam itself.

The remains and equipment were cleaned with the bones being placed in acoffin onsite.

On April 12, the casket was placed in amilitary truck and aone-hour procession with the militaryproceededtothe Bình Duong Martyrs Cemetery.

“Only myself as the veteran of that battle, including my partner Nhu were allowed to follow directly behind in amilitary car. They laid to rest there until April 26 when, according to the media and the army, they reported that it was the biggest

burial of martyrs in the history of Vietnam,” Mr Bryant said

Military, ambassadors, the Vietnamese President and the country’s media attended the ceremony Australia's Ambassador Andrew Goledzinowski and his defence team were also there.

Mr Bryan td escribe di ta sa great so lemn spectacle.

“I was humbled by the respect given to me and the inclusion of being able to attend,” he said.

“After all, Iwas directly involved withthe killing and burialofthesesoldiers of Vietnam 56 years ago. How ironic that 56 yearslater Iwas responsible for their return.”

It’s an odd experience to be aveteran of the Battle of Coral–Balmoral. Australia mayhavewon the battle, but it didn’twin the war. And veterans weren’t exactly thanked for their service -infact they were shunned by the publicand even by some veteran organisations.

This came up multiple timesduring local commemorations for Anzac Dayinthe Wellington Shire this year, including in Stratford.

At the ANZACCommemorative March and Service, Stratford RSL President, Ben Davis urged the public to support returning soldiers.

“Whenthey come back,support them, because they need support,” he said.

“When the Vietnam vets came back, they were (treated like) maggots.”

Asked aboutthis,MrBryant, whowas in Vietnam on Anzac Day, agreed that Vietnam veterans were treated terribly. But he knows he was deployed to battle with ajob to do, and is content with the

Ramahyuck Aboriginal Arts &Crafts Outlet

The first five martyrs found in April this year.

Photo: Contributed

John Bryant with partner Nhu Tran.

Photo: Stefan Bradley

Vietnam veteran John Bryant lives in Stratford, and continues to give talksonthe war.Inhis spare time, he enjoys deer hunting.

Photo: Stefan Bradley

buried bodies of fallen soldiers

FireSupport Base Balmoral -May 26-28,1968.

public today formingtheir own opinions about that conflict.

Veterans of war often return to complicated lives afterservice. In Mr Bryant's case, he has managed to build agreat home for himself in Stratford -quite literally.

“I built this house. Icame here (in 1998) and

there was nothing here,” he said. He had bought ablock aland. He then went to Bunnings and bought abook for $19.95 that taught him how to build his own house. He first built a shed, and then lived in the shed as he worked on the house.Hetiled,painted and plastered, receiving help every now and then.

MaffraSecondary College

CareersExpo Information Night

Date: Wednesday 24th July

Where: MaffraMemorial Hall

Time: 6.00pm –8.30pm

ç Local employers,communitygroupsand vocational trainingorganisations

ç Arange of Universities, TAFEs and other tertiary educationproviders

ç Maffra Secondary College subject domain areas

For any further details, please contact the College on 51471790 or email:maffra.sc@education.vic.gov.au

Course information for students studying Year 8-12in2025 at Maffra Secondar

John Bryant salutes the caskets for thefallen men.

Belongings werewell-preservedinthe crater,including this water bottle.

John Bryantatthe

Photos: Contributed

Aperfect timetoreflect and heal

From Pages 4-5

TO think, if he was standing at adifferent spot at the wrong moment in 1968, he may not be here to tell his story. He lost friendsfrom his platoon in that battle.

Part of the healing process for him has been finding themassgrave of Vietnamese martyrs, and watching them be honoured at the ceremony.

Mr Bryant was nervous to meet families of Vietnamese martyrs, but has experienced nothing but kindness.

One of thefallen soldiers foundwas of Nguyen Van Ha. His two sisters, Nguyen Thi and Nguyenn Thi Khang were at the memorialceremony.They embraced Mr Bryant when they saw him.

“They grabbedmebythe arms and said thank you in Vietnamese, and Ijusthuggedthem.”

Nhu Tran andJohn Bryant with Vietnamese Ambassador to Australia PhamHungTam.

Sisters NguyenThi and NguyennThi Khang hug John Bryant and thank him for finding their brother,NguyenVan Ha. Photos: Contributed

Follow-up to local success

Stefan Bradley

WHAT'Simportant to alocal community? Youcan say servicesorinfrastructure -but what makes us unique is character. Not just the scenery -it’s the people and its history.

Aformer pig farmer, Jim Fairchild, is ensuring those local characters aren’t forgottenthrough his writing. Mr Fairchild, born 1936, is living out his retirement in Maffra with his wife Lorrayne, having sold off the farming property in Tinamba.

Mr Fairchild's first book is titled Curly Talesfrom an Old Boar’s Pen,which he published last year (featured in the GippslandTimes 19/12/23 issue). He was so pleased with its unexpected success, that he was compelled to write afollow-up.

Despite selling Curly Tales books at only two stores across Maffra and Sale, it sold nearly 200 copies.

“Whic hs ur pri sed me, becau se Ih av en’t attempted to sell it further away,” he said.

Word of mouth does wonders. Readers were keen to learn aboutMrFairchild and his father, who became well-known for their pigs.

“This is not an autobiography about me, it’s not even astory about my dad, it’s about the things that happened along the way,” Mr Fairchild says of his first book.

As econd volu me, Fewer Curlies -M ore Characters, released afew months ago, has already received fantasticfeedback. Asuperior sequel, perhaps?

There'salmost no stories about pigs, instead it's aboutthe people in Mr Fairchild's life, including his relatives from the past 200 years, and locals he describes as “a little bit different”. He said that some of these tales were written years ago and others more recently, including cut content from the first book.

“With abit of nonsense for good measure!”

Mr Fairchild said his favourite chapter is the 18th -‘Saturday Lunch in Morwell’.

Just two-and-a-halfpages long, Mr Fairchild details his quest to find asandwich for his wife in Morwell.

“I really enjoyed writing it along time ago, and thought it should go into print,” he said. When this reporter spoke to Mr Fairchild about that first book,hewas already in the midst of writing Fewer Curlies.Isthere more he’d like to say for perhaps athird book?

“I don’tknow if I’ll get another bookwritten.I’m 87.I’ll think about it -there’s abit of stuff in my head and abit writtendown so you neverknow what Imight come up with,” he said.

Asked this question again afew weeks later, he was abit more blunt: “Definitely not.”

Writing or not, he won't be sitting still anytime soon.

“I’m never idle. We only have afew acres now, afew head of cattle and about four sheep… I’m pretty busy most of the time," he said.

“And I’m very lucky with my health.”

Pigs or not -always afarmer.

Fewer Curlies -More CharactersbyJim Fairchild, and his first title, Curly Tales from an old boar’s pen, are available from the Maffra Newsagency and Collins Booksellers Sale.

Fewer Curlies -More Characters by Jim Fairchild –Anexcerpt from Chapter1–‘Shopping Long Ago’.

IF Igobackfar enough, before Istarted school in 1944, we usually made several trips into Tinamba each week, primarily to deliver crated Stud Pigs to the Railway Station,but also to pick up the Mail, ‘The Argus’ and perhaps some groceries at the Post office and General Store. Occasionally there would also be a stop at Jim Drysdale’s Hardware Store. Jim employed an Office Girl who was always friendly to alittle boy, Minni Rautman.Not too long ago, Ilearned that she was still living, and in Heyfield, so on my next visitthere Icalled at her house.Nobody home!! Only acouple of weeks later, Iwas told that she had just died, aged, I think, 93. I was so sorry we had no re-met.

Jim and Dad were great mates and Jim’s wife was always very nicetome, but somewhat terrifying to alittle boy as she suffered from St Vitus’ Dance in her head, and it shook violently when she spoke. If we met, outside the Store, I would carefully check where the Ute was parked in case Ihad to make arun for it!! She meant well,poor soul! Another who Dad found always good for achatwas Ern Handley, stockman at the extensive Stockyards in Tinamba, where up to 700 pigsmight be yarded for afortnightly salewhere the necessity to supply justcream to the factories and not whole milk meant every dairy farmer had pigs. Ern’s wife operated a little confectionery and cake shop opposite the Yards, which Iexpect sold cupsoftea too.I never went in to it.

But the Railway Station was our main stop, every trip, and there was always alittle trolley available for our crated pig, on whichwepushed it to ashady spot, usually underthe veranda outsidethe waitingroom. And for me therewas the highlight of sometimes being lifted up onto thefootplate of asteam engine which drove the

goods trains which might happen to be there at thetime. If there were goods’ wagons to be pickedupordroppedoff, Icould have aride on the engine as it shunted on the side lines.

Near Jim Drysdale’s shop was the village Blacksmith, Bill Withell, and we occasionally called in with ajob for him. Idon’t recall him at all, but Idoremember the giant bellowsand theheat fromthe Forge, and everything except the hot coals being asort of charcoal colour. And near the Smithy was the fine Tinamba Hotel, stillthriving today. Dad didn’t go into such places, but enjoyed telling astory about it: three miles from Tinamba, on our way home, was Byron Lodge, then the home of the Riggalls ‘for ever’, and they employed arough old farm worker, Snowy Wade, who was very fond of a drink and hitched lifts to the Pub. Dad would pick him up, and he always smelled awful and looked the same when he joined us in the Ute. Apparently Snowy one day entered the Pub and asked the Publican’s wife for his usual tipple, Sherry. As he slurped it, he commented that it was the worst drink he’d ever had. Just then, the publican came in to the bar and said to his wife “Do you know where the Shelltox (insecticide) is? Yesterday Iput it in an empty Sherry Bottle!!!” Chapter 1continues.

Pick up the book for the full story!

Jim Fairchild’s second book is outnow at Maffra Newsagency and Collins Booksellers Sale.

Jim Fairchild with his first book, ‘Curly Tales from an old boar’spen’. Photos: StefanBradley

In August last year, Jim Fairchild already hada tonofmaterial forhis second book.

Jim Fairchild’s

to be passed down.

Youth violence on the agenda

CRIME Stoppers Victoria is working with young Victorians to combat increased ratesofyouth violence by asking them to ‘Share If You Care’ in anew campaign. According to Crime Statistics Data,therehas beenanincrease in serious and violent offenses committed by individuals aged 14 to 17.

Atotal of 6433 crimes against aperson were recorded in the past 12 monthstoend of March 2024.

This initiative, developed in collaboration with students from LyndhurstSecondary College, is encouraging young Victorians to take action and change the narrativesurrounding violence. The new campaign is asking young people to share footage on their phones with Crime Stoppers,while staying unknown.

Students at Lyndhurst SC wereadamant that not

allyoungpeopleare involvedinviolence, with many wanting to make adifference. They asked, “What if that was you, what if it was your family, what if it was your friends. Wouldn't you like someone to do something about it?”

Crime Stoppers will further empower young peopleinthe fightagainst crime by takingthe campaign to schools.Resourceswill be available forstudents, parents and guardians to help with thetough conversations regarding youth violence.

CrimeStoppers Victoria Chief Executive, Stella Smith, wants young people to know, “It doesn't matter who you are, the question is, who are you protecting by not sharing what you know?"

"Crime Stoppers gives you away to speak up without fear. Young people can easily put in an onlinereportand share imagesand videos they

alreadyhave on theirphones. Online reportingalso allows them to share content they may be seeing on social media” Ms Smith said.

Sixty-six per cent of reports to Crime Stoppers Victoria are made online, which shows "people want

to make adifference and be apart of the solution". Ms Smith said "providing informationtoCrime Stoppers canmakeahuge difference and possibly change the outcomeofaninvestigation, all while stayingunknown”.

AusNet hit with $200k fine

AUSNET Services has been ordered to pay $200,000 for installing an uninsulated highvoltage powerline in one of the state’s highest bushfire risk areas.

Energy Safe Victoria took action in the Supreme Court against AusNet afteritconstructed and energised a34-metrespan of bare powerline on the edge of the densely vegetated Selby Bushland Reserve in June 2022.

The court heard the company failed to cover or underground the 22-kilovolt line as required by section 120N of the Electricity Safety Act. The law aims to reduce bushfire risks arising from electrical networks.

The court also heard AusNet left the uninsulated powerline energised at 22 kilovolts until August 2023, taking 47 days to rectify the issue after it was discovered.

Energy Safe’s chief executive, Leanne Hughson, said AusNethad exposed the public to an increasedbushfire risk for more than ayear andthroughoutthe entire 2022/23 fire season.

“The bare line was installedonthe edge of abushland reserveand minutes away from popular tourist spots including the Puffing Billy railway.Ifithad started afire the consequences could have been catastrophic,” Ms Hughson said.

“History shows it only takes one powerline to cause afire that can devastate acommunityand it’s simplyunacceptable for amajor company like AusNettoput thepublic’s safety at risk.”

The court heardthe situation couldhave been avoided entirely if AusNet had better systems and checks in place. The companyhas since takensteps to prevent the issue from happening again.

In handingdown the decision, Supreme Court Justice Kathryn Stynes noted AusNet had

admitted the breach and agreed to the penalty at avery

JusticeStynes said

AusNet installeda bareline on the edge of bushland in theYarra Ranges.

Photo: Contributed

Dr Greg Steele

Dr Reeha Nandha

New eligibility for screening

VICTORIANS aged 45-49 are now eligible to take part in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program and order the free bowel screening test.

Cancer Council Victoria is calling on those aged 45-49 to order abowel screening kit after changes to the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program

On July 1, the program’s age criteria changed to allow Victorians aged 45-49 to opt-in to receive a free bowel screening test kit in the mail. They will then automatically receive akit in the mail every two years after the completion of their first test.

Cancer Council Victoria’s head of prevention and Adjunct AssociateProfessor Craig Sinclair said Cancer Council Victoria strongly supported the change, allowing more people to take part in the free screening program.

“Bowel cancer is Victoria’s second leading cause of cancer-related death among men and the third among women. But it can also be prevented through participation in theNational Bowel Cancer Screening Program,” he said.

“The test, also known as the faecal occult blood test, can detect signs of bowel cancer before symptoms occur.

“Bowel cancer can develop with no symptoms or family history. This is why doing regular screening from the age of 45 is so important, even if you feel well and live ahealthy lifestyle.”

Latest VictorianCancerRegistry data shows that 72 Victorian men and 73 Victorian women aged 45-49 were diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2022.

At 48, Victorian father Lupco Talevskifelt fit and healthy and didn’t consider his risk of bowel cancer. However,afterbeing recommendedacolonoscopy due to another issue, he was shocked to hear he hadseveral large polyps in his bowel.

If leftuntreated,these couldhavedeveloped into bowel cancer.

“It wasn’t like Ihad noticed anything unusual; Ihad no symptoms and wouldn’t have thought anything was wrong. Mine is acautionary tale. I thought of myself as healthy. Idon’t smoke, Ieat healthily and don’t drink.I’ve been aswimmer forall my life and love being active,soitreally surprised me that Icould be at risk,” Lupco said.

Lupco said the program’s age change could save many Victorians who are at risk of bowel cancer and urged people aged 45-49 to order their first

freebowel screeningtest as part of the national screening program.

“I’ve read many stories of people diagnosed with cancer, but this test can help you not get to that stage, so it is really important to share this message,” he said.

“Ifyou thinkbowel cancer is only an old person’s disease,then think again. Iamsolucky to be here, and everyone should know that they could be at risk, but also how simple and easy it is to do this test.”

This age change will help more people find bowel cancer early and save lives. In fact, more than 90 per centofbowel cancers can be treated successfully if found early.

People aged 50-74 will continue to receive akit in the mail every two years.

“So, if you’re aged 45-74, don’t take the risk, take the free bowel cancer screening test every two years. It could save your life,” Professor Sinclair said.

To learn moreabout bowelscreening, headto cancervic.org.au/bowel.

To order afree bowel screening testkit,visit: ncsr.gov.au/boweltest or call the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701.

Road safetyforums coming to Sale

THE Victorian Transport Association, representing the state’s freight and logistics industry, has announcedthe returnofits important regional road safety forums.

The VTA RegionalForum will be held in Sale on Wednesday, 31 July from 7.30-11am at Sale Greyhound Racing Club. The theme of this year’s forums is SafetyOnOur Roads:Reducing The Risk Around Heavy Vehicles.

Theregional forums are sponsored by Gallagher and WHG Telematics and bringtogether the VTA, National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, WorkSafe Victoria, Victoria Police, and Transport Accident Commission for important road safety updates from the state’s key transport and safety authorities.

The VTA Chief Executive Officer, Peter Anderson, said the regional forums offered VTA members, freight andlogistics operators, and the general motoring community the opportunity to advance important conversationsonhow road safety can be improved for the betterment of all road users.

“Regional Victoria is avital part of the state’s transport network as well as amajor contributor to the economic health and vitality of the Victorian economy, and it’s critical we factor regional perspectives into our thinking when it comes to transport planning,” Mr Anderson said.

“As an industrygroup the VTArepresents the whole of Victoria, not just Melbourne. These forums are but one way that we seek to directly connect

with regional operators and the communities they work and travel in, so that our feedback and perspectives to policymakers and thosewriting legislation is relevant, informed, and representative.

“The forums are also agreat waytomeet and network with fellow operatorsinthe area and hear from stakeholders involved with initiatives to make regional roads safer and more productive for freight operators.”

The Sale Regional Forum, at the Sale Greyhound Racing Clubatthe Sale Showgrounds, Sale Maffra Road, includesalight breakfastand is free to attend. Members of the public are welcome.

To register phonethe VTA on 03 9646 8590, visit: vta.com.au or sendanemail to events@vta.com.au

GOT abit of time in October?

Time to give blood and change lives?

Lifeblood says that one in three people in Sale will need blood, and without amazing locals spreading the word, the organisation says that blood may not be there at the crucial moment.

Lifeblood are rolling into Sale between October 4and 14

The mobile blood doner centre will be located on the Maffra-Sale Road near the Sale Greyhoun dR ac in gC lub bet wee n 8.30am and 6.15pm.

Don’t forget to pre-book your spot at lifeblood.com.au, on our app or on 13 14 95.

Photo: Contributed

Overcoming employment obst acles

Erika Allen

EVERY town has a'local business forever supporting its community' or those 'inspiring individuals, who we all wonder where they find the time' accordingtothe Victorian Community Achievement Awards (VCAA).

Overcoming Obstacles is aStratford-based disability service and certainly fits these descriptions.

“It’s the programthathelps people overcome, well, obstacles but not just mentally, sometimes physically,” Overcoming Obstacles client, Louisa said.

Hence, the organisation was recentlynominated for the VCAA’s2024Regional Service Award, recognising how peopleinthe regions help “reshape and inspire their local communities”.

“We call ourselvesadisabilityservice,but I like to call us agoal achievement facilitator, and that can be anything, from helping someone live independently,someone to getajob,itcouldbe just helping them get out of the house for the day,” founder of Overcoming Obstacles, Rachael Nicholls said.

In the regions where “resources, infrastructure, or opportunities”for peoplewith disability are scarce,saysMsNicholls,the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this.

“We have had some challenges in finding people with disability work. The Australian Disability Enterprise businesses closed in the area through COVID, and they didn’t reopen,” she said.

Overcoming Obstacles is one organisation in the Wellington Shire that is filling this gap.

Ms Nicholls said some of Overcoming Obstacles’ clients working in Australian Disability Enterprise “felt pretty lost” when it closed because they had been working there five days aweek.

Overcoming Obstacles was established in 2020, andMsNicholls said the team has worked hard to link clients with volunteer work to rebuild their employment skills and connect them with employment pathways.

This has included openingYoyos at Stretton Park café lastyear withthe support of CentralGippsland Health andStretton Park Aged Care. Café manager and employment coordinator Rachael Macreadie said it’s giving clients an “opportunity to shine”. “I’m very gratefultoRachaelfor the opportunity

to have helped establish Yoyos and to giveour clients the opportunity of paid employment,” Ms Macreadie said.

“I used to managethe Foster Place Café here in Maffra that was asupport employment café as well,and asocialenterprise.Itwas devastating when COVID shut that down.”

Ms Macreadie said Yoyos was opened at a“really hard time for society” due to the cost of living.

“Everybody’s got alot of walls coming up, business has, and it’s astrugglefor alot of businesses, and we’re starting to really notice that the more Italk to businesses around town about opportunities for the guys to get other work experience, they’re really struggling.”

HELP SUPPORT OUR NEWBORN BABIES

The Newborn Intensive CareFoundation is hosting aLadies High Tea Fundraiser on 9August to help raise money for aportable bedside ultrasound for

Your help will ensurenewborn babies at CGH get the quality carethey deserve.

Therewill be spot prizes, guest speakers and free transport to and from the event. Dress code is colourful! Bookings areessential before26July. Scan the QR code for tickets, bus bookings and other information.

Still, afterbuilding their skills with Overcoming Obstacles, clients havegone on to other employment.

“By becoming upskilled it’s actually moved me out of home...Overcoming Obstacles has helped me move out and move out independently. Theyhelped me get ajob and I volunteer, make coffees and do some of the cooking,” Overcoming Obstacles client, Justin said.

In addition to managing Yoyos, Ms Macreadie helps clients write resumesand sit job interviews. Shesaid the employment process at Yoyospractises these skills because employees need to submit a resume. The volunteering-to-paid employment pathway begins at aStratford café called Segue,

where OvercomingObstacles clients volunteer five days aweek, making coffee and preparing food. Those interested in paidemployment can apply for apaid position at Yoyos. By building these skills, clients can embrace opportunities to pursue other open employment.

“In an idealworld,wehope to then transition them into unsupportedemployment, which a couple of our clients have done, which is really exciting -whenthey don’t need us anymore,” Ms Nicholls said.

“As sad as it is, if any of them did ever leave our space,that’s the growth. Isay to them all the time, ‘The less Isee of you, the more you’re doing well’,” Ms Macreadie agreed.

Overcoming Obstacles partners with other com mun ity orga nisa tions lik et he Stra tford Shakespeare Festival.

“The clients were actually paid to help at the banquet this year,” Ms Nicholls said.

Clients also volunteer at the Stratford FootballNetball Club, Stratford Bowls Club, Stratford Men’s Shed, Segue Café and Courthouse Theatre. Ms Nicholls said the Stratfordcommunity has been “amazing” for supporting volunteers.

“It’s really exciting to… see how the town have embraced it because lots of people want to be part of Overcoming Obstacles, whether it’s as aclient or as astaff member," she said.

“We’ve got 54 staff, and Iwould say half of them are fromStratford. There’snot really alot of industry in Stratford that employs alot of people, so it’s not nice to have some opportunities for people to work in their own town.”

Just as the commu nity has given back to Overcoming Obstacles, Ms Nicholls hopes the nomination highlights the“great work” their clients do in the community.

“I hope that it will break down some barriers for people. Perhaps other businesses might lookat employing people with disability,” she said. VCAA nominations close on Wednesday, September 4, with judgingtotakeplace throughout October. Winners willbeannounced on Friday, December 13 at the 2024 Community Achievement Awards Gala Presentation Dinner.

The VTA’s FREE Regional Forum is back, bringing together keystakeholders to brief regional transpor t operators on critical road safety issues facing the freight and logistics industry.

Hearfrom:

•Transpor tAccident Commission

•Victorian Depar tment of Transpor t

•Victoria Police

•National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

•WorkSafeVictoria

•VTA

•WHG Telematics

•Gallagher

This is an excellent oppor tunity to receiveimpor tant safety updates from the key Victorian and national transpor tindustrystakeholders and regulators.

Rea ching out to regional art groups

THE AustralianCentre or Contemporary Art (ACCA), located in Melbourne’s arts precinct in Southbank, has launched a REACH program that aims to connect arts students in the regions with leading Melbourne artists.

ACCA'sprogram, REACH Art –Inspiring Creative Careers, focuses on connecting regional and remote students and teachers with leading contemporary artists, arts workers and exhibitions in order to build interest, knowledge, participation and career aspirations in the visual arts. The long-term goal is to support the development of futurecreativeindustries workers.

The REACH program, with support from the Victorian government, is available to all regional and remoteVictorian students and is designed to be flexible and tailored to the individual needs of each school.

Thereare transport subsidies for eligible schools to visit ACCA in Melbourne, as well as online options. ACCA Educators and leading industryprofessionalsare also able to visit classrooms.

ACCA'seducation manager, Felicia

Pin chen -Hog g, said this was ab ig opportunity forstudents to have direct, curriculum-aligned and enriching experiences through fun, interactive and hands-on activities,whilstalsoexpanding students’ ideas of the different roles and careers that exist in the gallery environment.

"The REACH program had been many years in the making. The idea grew out of a deep desire to build creative career aspiration and remove barriers to engagement withthe visual arts for regional students," she said.

 Tinamba Red Cross unit will hold its annual general meeting on Wednesday, July 24, beginning at 1.30pm in the Tinamba hall meeting room. After the meeting, the members would like to invite everyone from Tinamba and surrounding areas to join them for afternoon tea. For further information please phone Nell on 0407451428.

 Maffra Neighbourhood House has returned for Term Three.

The new yellowbrochure has been delivered to letterboxes in Maffra and copies are available to be collected from the House, 31A Thomson Street, Maffra or from the Maffra Library. The brochure can also be viewed on Facebook or the Maffra Neighbourhood House website.

Regular groups, art,craft,jigsaw, cards and scrabble have all resumed, new members are alwayswelcome. Bookings are now being taken for all TermThreeworkshops. Book early to avoid disappointment on 0422335155.

 Take up the challenge and learn an instrument at the Maffra Band, they have clarinets, flutes, trumpets, atrombone and more. Phone 0411112596 to find out how. Or, consider joining the choir or ukulele group.

Gippsland Farmer now on-line

THE July edition of GippslandFarmer is now available online for general readers.

Key articles in the July edition include:

 East Gippsland is looking to agriculture as akey driver of regional economic growth after the closure of the native timber industry by the state government.

 Ajourney into remote parts of Vermont in the US sparked the creation of East Gippsland boutique beer maker, Sailors Grave Brewery.

 Gippy dairy farms are amongst the most expensive in Victoria.

 Giving advice on succession plans for farmers.

 Pallet mill to close due to timber shortage.

 Federal government scraps water rule for plantations.

 Popular Metung chocolate maker Chocodence closes its doors.

 Cattle Australia is urging regulators to note new science that downgrades cattle methane emissions as aclimate danger.

 Australia's first cross-sectoral carbon calculation engine for agriculture, fisheries and forestry is launched.

 Beef industry still confused about Australia's carbon market.

 Perfecting the art of the mushroom. https://gippslandfarmer.com.au/about-us/

"We are so excitedtoshare stories of inspiring creative career trajectories and work withstudents to buildthe real-world skills they need to secure ajob in acreative industry, through participation in handson collaborative creative projects.”

ACCA is regarded as aleading producer and presenter of contemporary art, with along and celebratedhistory investing in, nurturing and propelling the careers of contemporary Australian and international artists.

The gallery is also recognised nationally for its education program, and offers innovative, free and fun arts learning opportunities for students, educators, and the wider education community through in-gallery programs, outreach, online resources, and the ACCA virtual classroom.

Schools in regional and remote Victoria are encoura ged to book here: https://a cca.melbourne/ reach-art-inspiringcrea tive-careers/

ONE POINTERS

1. What’sthe most power ful piece in chess?

2. What is agroup of lions called?

3. Who are the hosts of The Morning CrewonGippsland TRFM?

4. What is Toad in Mario? TWO POINTERS

5. Where is the Komodo dragon from?

6. What is the common name for the Aurora Borealis?

7. What university did Barak Obama attend?

8. What park did Yogi bear live in?

THREE POINTER

9. Which superhero team is Reed Richards amember of?

10. What company owns Hot Wheels?

11. What was the first computer game?

12. Which planet rotates the fastest?

FOUR POINTER

13. What is the proper name for asamurai sword?

14. What is the wettest town in Australia? FIVE POINTER

15. What is the liquid inside athermometer? Howtoplay... Using the 9letters in the gr id, howmany wordsoffour letters or morecan you list? The centreletter must be included and each lettermay be used onlyonce No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural wordsending in ‘s’. Solution page30

Jupiter; 13: Katana; 14: lly;Tu 15: curMer y

7: Har vard; 8: Jellystone; 9: Fantastic 4; 10: Mattel; 11: Spacewar!;

6: Northern

Locally-inspired album on thesta ge

Stefan Bradley

MELBOURNE pianist and composer Nat Bartsch

has been performing her ARIA-nominated ABC Classic album Hope across Gippsland this month.

She has been sharing the stage with local string quartetsSimplyClassical, featuring musicians and educators from Sale; and Traq Quartet, featuring youngadultperformers from the regional string quartet programItet in Traralgon.Hope is an album for piano,strings andelectronics built

around Nat’s distinctive blend of gentle melodic improvisation, jazz harmony and cinematic neoclassical composition. It was composed in 2020 with the smell of bushfire smoke in Ms Bartsch's home from the Black Summer fires, and duringMelbourne’slongCOVID lockdowns. The title is an abbreviation of hopefulness and hopelessness, with Ms Bartsch's lyrical, beautiful music exploring the space between. Ultimately, the listenerisleftwith afeelingof catharsis -the albumisa mindful acknowledgement of allwehavebeen through, enabling the

listener to look towards the future with hope. Recorded as soonasrestrictions allowed, it went on to reach numberone on the iTunes Classical Australia charts, and number three on the ARIA classical charts.

It received ARIA and AIR nominations for Best Classical Album, and received astanding ovation at its premiere in Melbourne in May 2021.Ms Bartsch has been rehearsing the show in Sale and is excited for locals to experience it.

“I’ve been lucky to bring my album, Hope, to life with many string players across the country. But this tour is the first time I’ve travelled to regional areas, to work with string players in their own hometown," she said.

"This community connection is so meaningful, and feels especially important in Gippsland,where I am touring to communities substantially impacted by the Black Summer fire season, and pandemic lockdowns.

"I’m so excited to share this music in Gippsland with new collaborators and friends, both onstage and off."

Ms Bartsch described the music she makes as "meditative, soothing and beautiful".

"It's not classical music that's designed to be only appreciated by people who know classical music. It's musicthat's like really welcoming of all types of people from all walks of life," she told the Gippsland Times

"And it's hopefully creating an opportunity for people to really just sit and feel like have achance to kind of feel emotions and connect with other people in the community and feel asense of calm and because part of hope."

Ms Bartsch's show with Simply Classical at The Wedge starts at 8pm on Thursday, July 18 and runsfor one hour with no interval.For further information go to: natbartsch.com

Fine Art Market coming soon

GET ready to mark your calendars for an exciting two day event happening soon at the Bond Street Event Centre! Bond Street is announcingthe launch of their Winter Fine Art Market Program featuring amazing artworks from over 15 talented local and international artists.

Be there on Saturday, August 10 from 10.30am to 12.30pm for Art Perspectives, aspecial session where artistswillbesharing their thoughts and inspirations behind the creation of their works. It will be agreat opportunity to gain insight into the world of art and connect with the artists.

On Sunday, August 11, from 11am to 3pm, don't miss the Winter Fine Art Market where you can purchase high-quality artworks from featured artists. And to keep youwarmand cozy, hot homemade winter soup will be available. But that's not all!Localstall holders will be selling their unique products,including Oz WildFlowers, selling flower arrangements and Flutter Bys selling framed insects and other curios.

You don'twant to miss this event. For more information ring David on 03 5182 8770, or go to: bondstreeteventcentre.com

Enjoy the viewstoLake Glenmaggie

Brie fd et ails

Proper ty: Coongulla home with lakeview

Address: 6Woolenook Way, Coongulla

Price: $695,000

Bed: Three, Bath: Two, Car: Six

Agent: Kevin Read, 0488 411026, Wellington Real Estate

HE property on Woolenook Wayoverlooks Lake Glenmaggie and is 150 metres from the main Coongulla boat ramp. Agents say the local area also provides easy access to four-wheel driving, motorcycling, fishing, bush walking, wineries, restaurants, and shops, ensuring that everything you need is within reach. There is abathroom adjacent to the downstairs living area. The home features three-bedroom, two-bathroom home, adeck, afour-bay garage plus acarport for two other cars. Agents say this property won’t stay on the market long and urge prospective buyers to phone to arrange an inspection.

overlooking the Sale We tlands

Denmark methane taxondairy

DENMARK has become the latest country to make plans for taxing livestockmethane emissions –with the government makingadeal with its dairy industry to implement a$144.5 (672 krone)/cow/yeartax by 2030.

Theplan at this stage appears to be for dairy cattle and it is unclear what beef cattle producers are going to have to pay.

It is the most specific plan,Beef Central is awareof, put in place by aGovernment to tax methane emissions.

The plan has been welcomedbythe dairy industry but somemediareports are suggesting it has angered local farmers.

The DanishGovernment is planning to return proceedsofthe tax to industry to assist with re-foresting some areasand other “green” initiatives –the package is worth 40b krone or about AU$8.6b.

“With (the) agreement, we are investing billions in the biggest restructuring of the Danish landscape in recent times,”said the Danish foreign minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen.

“We create much more nature, acleaner water environment, grow much more forest and make it possible to develop agriculture for the green competitionofthe future. At thesametime, we will be the first country in the world with a CO2 tax on agriculture. It is another exampleof

what we can achieve when we conduct politics across the middle.”

Several other attempts to either tax methane or enforce reduction of cattle herds to reduce methaneemissionshavebeencanvassedin recent years –whichhave been unpopular with local livestock industries.

The Netherlands was planning to buy out thousands of farms in the name of reducing methane and nitrogen emissions, which resulted in widespread protests from farmers blocking supermarket distribution centres and clogging up cities with tractors.

Politicians campaigning against the legislation have had some success in recent elections.

New Zealand’s previous Jacinda Ardern-led government proposedtoimplement what becameknown as a'burptax'for sheepand cattle which also drew widespread protests.

Anew Government has been elected with promises to reverse the tax.

The Irish industry is also being legislated to reducemethaneemissionsby25pc,withsome saying the countrycan do it through genetic improvement and others saying it will reduce herd sizes. The impact it has had on the electorate is unclear.

-BeefCentral

Dandenong okay for China

SOUTHERN beef processor, Australian Meat Group, has confirmed that the company's big beef process centre in Dandenong has gained access to the Chinamarket- the firstnew Australian red meat processor to do since 2017.

The plant was one of about 15 beef and/or lamb processing facilities that have had applications for China access –insome cases made six or seven years ago. COVID disruptions and a strained government-to-government relationship along the way have delayed that process.

It’s important to make aclear distinction between the AMG Dandenong development, and the re-admission of five Australian beef export plants to the China market in May. Those plants already held Chinalicenses, but were suspended, over avariety of mostly unusual regulatory or food safety concerns.

In contrast,AMG Dandenong represents new capacity,havingneverpreviouslyhad access to China, andbecoming anew player in the China market. It’s believed the approvalisfor both chilled and frozen beef,plusoffal.

Australian MeatGroup managingdirector, Gilbert Cabral, told Beef Central the company’s phones had started to ring frompotential Chinesecustomers immediatelyafter Chinese

authorities posted the new listing.

Gilbert Cabral, AMGHe said the addition of Chinawould broaden the company’s customer base, and was now evaluating how best to approach the new market.

While AMG has some Chinese equity invested in its business, this was not considered to be a factoringainingaccess,BeefCentral was told.

AMG Dandenong is amodern export plant, currentlyprocessing around 1000 head per day, with ultimate capacity around 1300/day. It kills quality chilled and frozen grain and grass-fedbeef,cold-boned, for domestic and export markets. Most of the product goes into retail or food service sectors.

Therehas been no indication at this stage whether other Australian beef and lamb plants that have earlier applied for China access are likely to follow this week’sDandenongapproval

The AustralianMeat Industry Council, representing red meatexport and domestic processors,noted last month’svisit to Australia by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, suggesting this was all part of arelationship rebuilding exercise between the two countries,that has contributed to the Dandenong listing.

-BeefCentral

‘Price’ ared mea

FIFTEEN years of consumer preference tracking by Meat &Livestock Australia continues to underline the dominant role price plays in red meat purchasing decisions.

This year’s consumer survey has recently been completed, and Meat &Livestock Australia’s Group Manager, Adoption and Commercialisation, SarahStrachan, shared some of the early findings in arecent university presentation in Wagga. Shesaidthe surveys also provide avaluable opportunity to learn more about the factors that driveconsumers who say they are increasing their red meat consumption and those who are decreasing their red meatconsumption.“We’re pretty interested in why those people are doing those things,” she said.

Ms Strachansaidthe reasons givenbythose who are increasing their red meat consumption were strongly connected to nutrition. That in turn helped to guide marketing campaigns that promote the nutritional advantages of red meat over other proteins.

On the flip side, thosewho saythey are actively reducing red meat consumption were often basing that decision on price.

“When you really get underneath that, it is just price driven more than anything,” she said.

“The cost of living, we hear that alot, those pressures have really had an impact on red meat consumption, and so by and large, when people are standing in front of red meat options in a supermarket, we really have got to convincethem that red meat is good value.”

This came down to reinforcing the messages that meat was ahighly nutritional and versatile choice. The surveys also showed that the population of vegetarians is remaining in line with long-terms trends and is relatively static at about 5percent of the population.

Also of interest,around 51pc of people who declare themselves to be vegetarians also admit to still eating meatoccasionally.

Sustainability and environmental concerns were much lower on consumers’ minds when standing in front of red meat in ashop, with people mostly thinkingabout what they want for dinner and how convenient it is to cook.

However, there was agroup of consumers that are thinking amore about those issues than others, and when asked what it is about animal production they are most concerned about, animal welfare

came to the top of mind for those consumers.

“So that then drives us to how do we make sure that we are actually (maintaining high standards of animal welfare) to keepthat trust in those consumers as well,” she explained.

“So that will drive alot of our adoption programs about how do we increase the use of pain relief for those husbandry practices or how do we use genetics to move to anon-mulesed flock.”

Shesaidwhen consumers were asked aboutthe redmeat industry’scommitmenttoreducing its emissions,the industry’s goalofachieving net zero by 2030 had apositive impact on consumer perceptions.

The consumer tracking work also continues to underline the high levels of trust Australians place in the agricultural sector, with farming still regarded as one of the most trusted occupations.

“It is quite obvious that consumers really trust the agriculture sector, and they put farmers up thereasatrusted occupation,not farbehind engineers and teachers and scientists,” she said.

-BeefCentral

VFF push on freight

THE VictorianFarmers Federation (VFF) says the Victorian agriculture industry can propel the state’seconomyand surpass $20 billion dollars of food and fibre exports by 2030 if the Victorian Government focussesonroad maintenance, lowering costs and improving freight efficiency.

In asubmission to the Refresh of the Victorian Freight Strategy, the VFF President, Emma Germano said having aplan to maintain and fixregionalroads would be key to reinforcing agriculture as Victoria’s largest exporter by value and sustain the more than154,000 people directly employed by the industry.

“Victoria has the worstroads in the country. The freight strategymust set avisionfor us to have thebest roads in Australia,” she said.

“The total neglect of regional roadshas happened in part because the previous freight strategy never identified maintenanceasa priority. That is despite it having been akey ask of all freight and transport industry stakeholders.

“To continue to supply good quality, well-priced products for consumers hereand abroad, it’s absolutely vital we have aconcrete visionthat

improves the efficientmovementoffood and fibre.” Ms Germano saidacombination of infrastructure investment, maintenance and regulatory reform would be needed to realise the full potential of a new strategy.

“Victoria’s new freight strategy must include a dedicated piece focusingonagricultural freight. Transporting produce through our supply chains represents one of the most significant costs to Victorian farmers. Not only do we feel that squeeze on farm, it drives investment awayfrom our state andour industry,”she said

“Rising costs across the supply chain are making Victorian food and fibre less competitive. Terminal access charges for oneofthe stevedoresatthe Port of Melbourne have increased by 52.52 per cent in Melbourne,compared with 38.8 per cent in Sydney and 37.5 per cent in Brisbane this year.

“The cost of not planningfor the futurewould be enormous. The demand for food and fibre is growing exponentially both domestically and overseasand now is to set the foundations for a modern and efficientfreight system that delivers for thedecadesahead.”

Photo:File

ReducingUVexposurea

in preventingeye disea se in ca ttle

FINDING ways to reducethe exposure of cattle to ultravioletlight with shade or shelter in paddocks and feedlots is key to helping reducethe incidence of the debilitating eye disease, pink eye.

As pe ci al ist cattle veterin arian, Dr Shane Thomson from Holbrook Vet Centre, was aguest speaker at the Pasture Agronomy Service conference in Wagga Wagga earlier this month, and outlined the prevention and management of pink eye in cattle.

Dr Thomson said there was aneed for further research into the risk factors and causal relationships of pink eye. He pointed to recent studies revealing local immunity may be achieved by using intra-nasaloreye spray vaccine, but they were not acurefor the disease.

With the Department of Agriculture estimating lost annual production valued at over $23 million to the disease, young Bos Taurus cattle in close congregation or in intensive grazing areas in southern Australia are at great risk of contracting pink eye.

“The bigquestioniswheredowegointhe future as it is not asimple infectious disease but acomplex syndrome, and we don’t know enough about it,” Dr Thomson said.

“Pink eye is acommon, economically important potentially contagious eye disease in cattle that is predisposed by an initial injury and can lead to substantial production loses.

“Based on the sale of commercial products in all Australian states, 10 per cent of theAustralian cattle herd are treated annually but there are many cattle going untreated or treated with noncommercially available products.

“Globally the prevalenceis3 per cent so Australia is abit of ahot spot.”

Dr Thomson said pink eye can affect up to 80 per cent of animals in asingle mob.

“The impact on animal welfareiscoming from the ulceration of the cornea, which often progress to painful deep melting ulcers, eyeball rupture, blindness and weight loss,” he said.

“This leads to asuppression of reproductive targets in the system and anegative impacton producer welfare –nobody working in agriculture wants to see animals suffering.

“Pink eye has been reported in literature for 130 years and there has been ample opportunityto put research into it, yet we still seem to have very little control.

“We see pink eye worse now and coming at acost of the environmental factors driving profitability through improved efficiency and stocking rates.”

Dr Thomsonsaid treatment and prevention had evolved over the past 10 years.

“People feel stressed about continually seeing eyeswithsome degree of lesionsand feeling the responsibility to do treatment when alot of the time they don’t need treating,” he said.

“The earlier we can identify and treat pink eye, the better the outcome will be. We can’t do alot for those big yellow, melting ulcers as it is the body in the end stage of achronic inflammatory process. These need anti-inflammatories and protection from UV light by patching.

“Try isolation to reduce spread if you see asmall ulcer, blueness to the eye, tearing and squinting. Stagetwo is afull-blown inflammatory reaction around the eye and amelting ulcer, while stage three is pus filled eyeballs and stage four is a rupture with protrusion of inflammatory cells.

“If you can see small blood vessels venturing across the eye, that is thebodyhealing the eye following the normal inflammatory process and treatment at that point is unnecessary.”

Dr Thomson said ensuring adequate immune competence would helpprevent bacterialincursion of the eye and enhance healing, following any trauma. Recently traumatised corneas can heal within 36 hours provided the eye is protected from UV light.

“The biggestpartofimmune competence is nutrition, with any deficiencies addressed in copper, selenium, and vitamin A. If animals are healthy, they have amuch betterabilitytofightthis disease.

“Other stresses suchasparasites,environmental conditions, or low feed quality (grass seeds and dust out of hay, paddocks with rank pasture and stems) will reduce their ability to fight pink eye.

“Any feederselevatingfodder for animals are typically associated with alot more eye disease and injury as opposedtoanimals feeding in abunk or on the ground. Be careful of anything that will promote foreign material going into the eyes of cattle on feed.”

UV radiation alone can induce pink eye lesions in the absence of other factors and proves the importance of having shade for feedlot cattle.

“UV light is ahugecomponent and has been underratedinits influenceonpink eye expression andisrelated to the shape of the eye or hooding.

Britishbred cattle have corneaswell exposed to UV radiation,” Dr Thomson said.

“Dust and flies are critical –flies are capable of creatingprimary trauma themselves as well as being avector to inoculating eyes with bacteria.

“You do need some trauma to the surface of the cornea to get an infection. Once the damage occurs, it is spread by contact between animals of discharge from the eye or by flies.

“Treatment is problematic; it can be effective if done early and other cattle are not made worse Is it worth getting them in at the risk of creating more close contact, dust and potential spreading of the disease?

“If there is alarge percentage of amob affected, yarding the animals and creating co-mingling is notapositive so it puts the pressure on detecting early cases.

“Patching is an essential component of treating pink eye as it protects against currentand further UV radiation, enhances healing time, reduces

New dairy training

THE dairy industry now has access to anew training programdesignedtobuildexporter skills and knowledge.

The courseCulture: GrowingDairy Exports was developed in partnership with Dairy Australia and Charles Sturt University.

The Deputy Secretary for Trade, Tina Hutchison, said this free program would support Australia’s dairy export sector.

“The five-module training course will upskill industry and develop their knowledge of export regulatory requirements,” Ms Hutchison said.

“The training focuses on whole of system thinking that improves participants’abilityto establishinternal monitoringand verification systems to meet the export dairy regulatory requirements.

“Users will be able to engage with 3D animated scenarios showing them the impacts of noncompliance, and the effectiveness of root-cause analysis and communications.

“Toolkitshave been designedtoassist in implementing skills gained in training into the work of various roles within adairy establishment.

“These toolkits provide guidance and practical tools to help buildand maintaincompanyculture and qualityassuranceprocesses, and emphasise thevalue of aproactive systems-based approach for managing export regulatory requirements.”

To accessthe training course, visit: agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/export/ controlled-goods/dairy/welcome-pack/ dairy-training-tools#daff-page-main

spread to other animals and it marks the animal as treated.

“With mildpinkeye,check and remove any foreign body suchasgrass seedorpieceofhay, use an ointment or sub conjunctival injection (oil based penicillin andsteroid)toreduce the bacterial infection and apply fly repellent.

“In severe pink eye,check and removeany foreign bodies, and use long-actingantibiotic and antiinflammatory injection and protect the eye with a patch. Use afly repellent and consider isolation.”

Dr Thomsonsaidthere was no controlled data supporting the use of alternative treatments such as kerosene, petrol and pink eye powder which exacerbate or induce further irritation to the eye.

Dr Shane Thomson, Holbrook VetCentre.

Photo: Contributed

Advertise in the Gippsland

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PRODUCERS MKT

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Carpet Country, the regional leader in flooring, tiles, and window furnishings requires the services of aCustomer Consultant. If you have aproven track record in sales and love being creative, have an eye for colour, interior decoration and areal passion for outstanding customer service, we would like you to join our team to help customers realise their vision. Previous experience in sales, home decoration or the building industry is desirable but not essential.

Be part of our friendly, fun and creative work environment.

The successful applicants will have:

● an eye for colour, design and interior decoration ● outstanding personal customer service

● strong computer and administration skills

● excellent attention to detail

● awillingness to work on weekends is required.

Suitably qualified applicants can forward acopy of their CV along with acovering letter explaining why you are the right person for the job to davidw@carpetcountry.com.au

arrears. Expression of interest close Friday 19th July at 4.00pm. Please include names and contact number of Referees: Further information -Contract for 12 months with possibility of extension contact Susie 5144 2111 or email: araluen.ps @education.vic.gov.au

Gippsland Real Estate, Sale is seeking ahighly motivated individual to join our professional team immediately, for an exciting career in the real estate industry. Due to the growth of the business, the team are searching for aProperty Manager for our Sale office, that will be prepared to jump right in and take initiative, be customer focus and ready towork as ateam. The following attributes are considered important for the role:

● Experience in acustomer service role

Expressions of interest areinvitedfromsuitablyqualified persons interested in becominganindependent member of Council’s Audit&Risk Committee.Two vacancies will exist on the Committee, commencinginOctober 2024 and February 2025for aperiod up to 3years

To submityour interestplease downloadanExpression of Interestbrief from our website (www.wellington.vic. gov.au).

Expressionsofinterest marked “Audit &RiskCommittee Member”will be accepted via email at sheryls@ wellington.vic.gov.aunolater than 2pm Tuesday 6 August 2024

Formoreinformation contact Sheryl Saynor on (03) 5142 3151.

● Excellent presentation and people skills

● Excellent phone and personal communication skills

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GREENWOOD

RO BERT (Bo b)

editor

We areseeking aperson with arecord of achievementasajournalist ,who is enthusiastic, well organised and has a commitment to community newspaper values.

This person must posses akeennews sense and the abilitytoengage our readers across print ,online and social media.

The successful applicant will be responsible for leading an effective editorial team.

Ademonstrated ability in these areas will be highly regarded.

This position is based in Sale.

Excellent working conditions and salary packageavailable

Please send your detailed resume to bseymour@lvexpress.com.au by Wednesday31July,2024

JOURNALIST

The GippslandTimes and Latrobe Valley Express arelooking for ajournalist to join our team.

This is afantastic opportunity for you to contribute to the communities in our region.

The role will include general news reporting in aregionwitha wealth of stories to be told about current challenges and future opportunities in addition to the normal story telling expected of alocal newspaper serving its community

The ideal candidate will:

Have relevant tertiaryqualifications

Have great communication skills, both verbal and written

Be able to write punchy,informative and exciting stories on arange of subjects

Possess great news sense and an understanding of what engages local readers

Have acurrent driver’s licence

Be motivated with acommitment to accuracy and quality reporting

The position will be based in Sale.

The successful applicant will report to the Editor

Send aletter of application, resume, list of referees and work examples to:

The Editor -Liam Durkin Gippsland Times ldurkin@lvexpress.com.au

Applications close: Friday, 19th July 2024.

Robert Keith 'Bob' 11.07.1933 -13.07.2024

We give thanks for the life of Robert Greenwood (Bob). Loving husband of Joan (dec.). Fa th er ,g ran dfa the r, great-grand father, and mate to many.

Bob was agentle, loving, sup porti ve and compassionate person. He loved his family and adored his many grandch ildre na nd great-grandchildren.

He lived his life with great humility and despite exp er ienc in gh ea lth challenges in recent years never complained. He was always grateful for the support he received from family ,h ealt h professionals and carers.

Bob was an accomplished spo rts man havi ng exce lled at footb all, cricket, and golf. He loved wat ch in gs po rt and enjoyed barracking for his beloved Bombers.

May he rest in peace.

Loving husband of Joan (dec.). Son of Grace and Walter (both dec.). Loving father and father-in-law of Lyn and Rob, Julie and Pete, Kevin and Trish, Pauline and Mark, and Geoff (dec.). An adored Grandfather of 13 and Great Grandfather of 19.

Bob Greenwood Dad you wer ea n inspiration to us all. You lived your life simply and had aheart of gold. You were always honest, generous, and down to earth. You and mum were always agreat support to Trish and Iand played a significant role in helping us raise four wonderful children. We were blessed to have you. You were an admired sportsman having been a tough, uncompromising member of four senior premierships at Sale during the 1950's. Also playing in an 'A' Grade cricket premiership at Bundal agu ah and a talented golf player. You will be sadly missed Bobby. Kevin and Trish Greenwood.

Greenwood Bob you were such akind-heartened gentleman, always with a cheeky grin and great sense of humour. Your strength of character evident right until the end. The many stories and memories shared will be cherished by us all forever. Justin, Heidi, Max, Harry, Mason, and Aaliyah Greenwood.

Bob Greenwood At rue gent leman, storyteller, ever humble and present grandfather and great grandfather, all-round legend. What a privilege to be loved by you. Forever grateful for the impact you have had on our lives and the legacy of love you leave behind. Keep smiling Bobby. Grace, Andrew, Josh, Sam, and Tom Duffield.

Bob Greenwood I'll miss our sneaky pots at the pub Bob- 'toss the boss' never stood a chance with you in our corner! Thanks for the nickname Iinherited from you, the fond memories being your caddy at golf and for looking after Jimmy when Ineeded. As the song goes: 'I wish grandpa's never died.' Ben and Jim my Greenwood.

GP1671610

In Memory of James Robertson Hawthorn It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James (Jim) on July 10th, 2024. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by love.

Jim was adevoted father to his four children and cherished Papa to his ten grandchildren, whom he loved dearly. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Rest in peace, you will be sadly missed and forever in our hearts.

and

Bob Greenwood We were lucky enough to have you and cherish you. We will miss your cheeky smile, sporting chats and great stories. Kind and gentle to the end, forever in our hearts. Caity, Brendan, Kel, and Stan Owen.

to Shirley and Graham, Valerie, Peter and Belinda. Beloved Aunt to James, Peter, Benjamin, Nicci and Christopher. Great Aunt to Nathanael and Carissa.

The family thanks all staff at Wattleglen Aged Care for their compassion and care. GP1671598

HAWTHORN. James Robertson 'Jim'

MANN (nee Parlicki) Maria Elzbieta 'Mary'

22.11.1952 -11.7.2024

Passed away at home aged 71 after along illness.

Lov in gd au ght er of Bol esla w( dec .) an d Katarzyna.

Much loved mother of Ant hon y, Ja cqu el in e, Kathryn, and Stephanie.

Loved and respected sister of John and Jozef (dec.). Loving auntie of Mark, and Melissa.

Loved grandmother of Evelyn, Callum, Jennaya, Aliyah, and Imogen.

Words cannot describe our loss.

Taken too soon.

Reunited with your Dad and eldest brother. Rest peacefully. Forever in our hearts and minds

MCLENNAN, Chris

Stradbroke fire brigade was saddened by the news of Chris passing, he was amostvalue member of our brigade for 26 years, and our sectary for 17 years. We will remember the big contribution he made through our brigade and the CFA. Our thoughts are with his family in this sad time.

RICHARDSON, Betty.

It is with great sadness we extend our condolences to the Richardson family on the passing of Betty on 07/07/2024 Alife so beautifully lived should be beautifully remembered. Much love from All at Ashleigh House.

KARNAGHAN The funeral service and committal for cremation for Ms Margaret Ruth Karnaghan will be held at Our Chapel, 5Queen St, Maffra NEXT Tuesday (Ju ly 23 ,2 02 4) commencing at 11am.

KEMSLEY. Afuneral service for Mr Lindsay Ian Kemsley was held on WEDNESDAY (July, 10, 2024).

MANN (nee Parlicki)

Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Maria Elzbieta 'Mary' Mann will be offered at St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral, Pearson Street, Sale at 1pm NEXT TUESDAY July 23, 2024, followed by bur ial at the Sa le Cemetery

PARROTT. Amemorial service for Mr Ronald James Parrott of Port Welshpool was held on Friday, 5July 2024.

JOJIC, Radivoj (Rudi) and Inga. To my dear lovely parents -Dad Radivoj and Mum Inge. It has been along and very hard time since Ilost you both. To me it is a time without your love and warm hugs. So many memories with you of nice holidays in Europe and here in Australia -a special time with so much happiness that you gave me. You are the best and most awesome parents with golden hearts. Imiss you both so much and have never forgotten. Your loving daughter Sne zana and you r grandchild. Thank you to special, nice holiday to old country. Rest in peace.

VALENTINE, Amber 3/1/83 -16/7/16

Its been eight years Alt houg ho ur liv es journeys have bid us to be apart. Iamwith you, you are with me, always in my heart Love and missing you Mum.

VIZARD, Barry 15-07-2016

Though your presence may be gone Barry, our memories will always be with us.

Bet, kerryn, Robyn, Russell, Marian

VIZARD, Barry July 15, 2016

Imissyou Dad. Iwould give anything to see you again. Thinking of you. Love Julie, Shane, Mitchell and Andrew

WYND, Robert Louis William 23/10/1949 -16/7/2023.

Upgra de to boost sport participa tion

THE federal government continuestopartnerwith Wellington Shire Council to deliver high-priority local infrastructure in the Gippsland region -with the major makeover of StratfordRecreation Reserve’s pavilion the latest project to make waves.

Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Works included upgradestothe existing pavilion socialroom, and installation of new amenities and akiosk.

ANSWER, Lynette Irene. The funeral service for Mrs Lynette Answer will be held at St John's Anglican Ch urch ,1 6 Church Street, Maffra on Wednesday (July 17, 2024) TOMORROW at 1.00pm followed by burial at the Maffra Lawn Cemetery.

Lynette's family invite you to bring aflower from your garden to be placed at the Cemetery.

Please see our website for livestream details.

GREENWOOD For funeral arrangements for Mr Robert Keith 'Bob' Greenwood please check our website or phone

HAWTHORN.

In accordance with Jim's wishes ,ap ri va te cremation has been held.

FIELD, Francis John (Frank) Ayear has past, the house is empty without you, the memory's will last forever you will always be in our hearts. Your loving family and grandkids, Daph.

JAGO, Elaine and frank Mum and dad Acouple of years have passed and we still miss you. Think of you everyday. Never forgotten. Rob, Greg and John.

PASSED away 20th July 2022. Mum, Iwas dragged into anew chapter that day. One that started when your life ended, Igrabbed at the previous pages, but cancer ripped them away from me.I still find myself wanting to go back to stay with you, bookmarked 2 years ago when I'm still with you.We love you forever Mumma Bear Noel, Nic, Mick, Jake, Jai, Judd, Torri and Evie. xxxx

One year ago my heart was broken into amillion pieces and an emptiness was left inside of me. My darling Rob, if only we could turn back time. All my beautiful memories of our life together are in my heart forever. You're forever in my thoughts. Sweetheart, Ilove you and miss you so very much.

Love Anne xoxo. Belinda, Luke, Brad, Jo, Balin, Kyla, Sienna and Hunter. Always in our hearts Poppy Robbie.

Officially opened by Federal Senator, Lisa Darmanin, alongsideWellington Shire Mayor,Ian Bye -the upgraded pavilion will boost local sport participation and revitalise community events hosted in Stratford.

“This project is agreat example of what we can achieve for the Stratford community when the Australian Government works in partnership with Wellington Shire Council,” Ms Darmanin said.

“Improving the Stratford Recreation Reserve is something the local community has long called for, which is why it’s fantastic to see this upgraded pavilion now complete.

“These spaces are the heart of our community,by investing in the future of this versatile facility in Stratford, we’re ensuring that players in the local footy, netball and cricket teams have adedicated spacefor games, and avibrant hub to bring the region together.”

The $1.39 million projectwas funded by the federal government, as part of $17.7 million being delivered to Wellington Shire Council under the

The upgraded pavilioncements anew era for Stratford Recreation Reserve, ensuring more events, sports matches and community gatherings can be enjoyed by the Stratford and surrounding communities.

“With the new pavilion now open,more sporting clubs and local community groups have the chance to get active and participate in football, netball, cricket, and other sports -and there’s afantastic function space available for hire,” Cr Bye said.

“The Stratty reserve is such an important community assetand whilst the venue has afantastic playingsurface and agreat spectatorarea, the main pavilion and social club room needed an upgrade to ensure the venue’s longevity.

“This new pavilion addresses that need and we thank the Australian Government for supporting us to ensure that the reserveremains adesired destination for sports and community events in Wellington and the whole Gippsland region.”

andWellington ShireMayor,Ian Bye join thecommunity for the ribboncutting.

FederalSenator,LisaDarmanin

The Boyd family celebrate the pavilion opening at the J. A. Boyd StratfordRecreationReserve. From left Mia Johnson, Carmel Boyd, Paul Johnson, John Boyd, Elizabeth Johnson,Alan Boyd, Catherine Boyd and Sarah Bishop.

Wellington ShireCouncil councillors Cr Carmel Ripper,CrMarcus McKenzie, Cr John Tatterson with Federal Labor Senator LisaDarmanin, Jeffrey BourmanMLC andWellington ShireMayor,Ian Bye.

NORTH GIPPSLAND

SENIORS

(120)

COWWARR 2.0 2.1 2.3 4.4 (28)

GOALS: YYN: DMacdonald 6J Keyhoe 3L Rees 2J De Virgilio 2BBurnett 2A Young LLittleJ Massese.Cowwarr:C Cook KHughes JBrown BEST: YYN: JDeVirgilio DMacdonald AYoung LFry JMassese DShellcot. Cowwarr:M Mclellan HHectorKHughes CCook bHood RLuxford TTU2.6 5.8 9.10 11.16 (82) ROSEDALE 1.2 2.5 2.10 3.11 (29)

GOALS: TTU: FBrouns 5H Willaton JJacobsen FShields TMustoe SGoddardJNeilson.

Rosedale: DBarnett2SFox BEST: TTU: FBrouns OAliotta HWillatonZKilgowerJCashmore SGoddard. Rosedale: BSafstrom JDiamond DBarnett BMcConnell HFoat JSuter

17.14 (116)

(48)

GOALS: Churchill: BHolt 7J Whykes 3R Peter2 TSevenson2 WTowersD FehlbergBSkinner

Gormandale: JGreen 2FRoscoe JFoulkesJCanning TSalerno TBaldwin BEST: Churchill: R PeterADiCiero BHolt JWhykes JHasell BSkinner.Gormandale: FRoscoe SBurgess TSalerno

RMusgrove HRichards TBaldwin

Wildcats slip, TTUcapitalise

TomHayes and Blake Metcalf-Holt

THE race for the finals in North Gippsland football just took another turn.

Teams are still scrambling between themselves to establish their positions, as nothing is set in stone just yet.

Eight teams are still within achanceof being in the final five, while those already in the top five continue to move around, as the coveted first place changed hands for essentially the first time all season.

 ALOT can change in afortnight.

Two weeks ago, Woodside was sailing head and shouldersabove the rest, undefeated and unworried.

(64)

(37)

GOALS: Sale City: KMartin 3FRead2JAllisonJ Whitehill OWaugh.Woodside:MO’Sullivan2 BStainer JWilliams ZRichards BEST: Sale City: KMartin DMcGuiness CWhitehill BMacgregorDaviesTCarstairsT Bowman.Woodside: CWhiteoakJKennedyMDykeJHicksJWilliams LLeeson

4.7 5.14 9.23 14.31 (115)

0.1

(8) GOALS: Heyfield: KGraham 4MStevens 3MBennett 2FStephenson 2T Birss TMarchesiB Woodland.Glengarry: MTulloch. BEST: Heyfield: TMarchesiMStevens BWoodland KHole L Heasley KGraham. Glengarry: JBassi MRyanJ LeeOPoulton THarris MHarris

JPettigrewHughes TMacmanus. Glengarry: DetailsN/A. BEST: Heyfield: JHanrattyB WilloughbyBMeliC Ronan JParker JChristian. Glengarry: FBlizzardSDarby C Whitehead HSmith OCliftonKSutherland

Sale City:N Rand 2J Wells 2FMcCarthyT Jerome.Woodside: JMattern AJanssen AFrancis FCupples BEST: Sale City:L Knight JReid BWilson NRandR Wilson KDelacour Woodside: MMattern RMaiden AJanssen AFrancis DAvery JScott

5.5 8.9 11.13

16 July,2024

Now, they have lost two on the bounce, cracks have begun to show, and they are no longer the frontrunner.

Sale Citywell and trulymadeastatement at the weekend, dethroning the league leaders 8.16 (64) to 5.7 (37).

In atensefirstquarter,only one sidecould muster agoal, that beingthe home side, as theBulldogs took aone goal leadinto quarter time.

Anumberofchances wentbegging for both sides however, as both teams registeredfour behinds.

ButSale City would not be pushed over, and they emergedasthe aggressor before halftime, extending their lead out to 13 points.

Woodside could only manage the one goal for the entirefirst half, clearly one of the hardest halves of football they had played this year, while the Bulldogs added two more to their tally.

The game opened up much more in the second half, with morescores goingthrough the big sticks, although it wasn’t without minor scores throughout.

Both sides had their fair number of chances in front of goal, but again, Sale City weren’t to be outdone.

To imagine how much they could’ve been ahead by if the majority of their chances hit the target, they added 4.5 (29) going into the last quarter, as the Wildcats scored 3.1 (19) -the home side with a23-point lead up their sleeve.

Considering Woodside had only scored4.6 (30) up until three quarter time, it was going to be difficult to see them double their score in aquarter to overturn the deficit.

In fact, it did turn out to be too much in the end, as the Bulldogs kicked 1.5 (11) in the last term to the Wildcats’ 1.1 (7), taking out the fourpoints witha27-point win

Sale City’sKane Martinwas beston-ground, leading the way with three goals. Joining him in the best was Daine McGuiness, Cooper Whitehill, Brayden Macgregor-Davies, Troy Carstairs and Tom Bowman

For Woodside, Cameron Whiteoak, Josh Kennedy,MattDyke,Josh Hicks, Jai Williams and Liam Leeson were standouts.

Theresultmade Woodsidevulnerableto losetheir position, as Traralgon Tyers United assumed first place followingtheirwin over Rosedale.

As for Sale City, they are onceagain well within the fightfor the top five, now sitting just one winbehind fifth-placed Yarramwith asignificantly bigger percentage.

 THE Boneyard was the home of the WorkSafe Country Club game.

GormandalehostedChurchillonwhat was agreat day for country football, with expremiership BulldogTom Boyd in attendance with WorkSafe as an ambassador.

Churchill paid homage to Angus Peter, brother of senior player Rory, who passed away during the week. Angus was alively character around the club,always open to give ahand when needed.

The Tigers put on ashow, and although their impressive start to the gamewas positive, fell short of the Cougars, 17.14 (116) to 7.6 (48).

It wasGormandale’sbest total score of the season, and they started with real poise, jumping out to an early lead, but Churchill came fighting back to lead at quarter time by 14 points.

The visitors reaffirmed their dominance as halftime approached, adding3.6 (24) to their tally, while keeping the home sidescoreless, to stretch the margin out to 38 points.

Althoughwithin touching distance for Gormandale, it was going to take all they had from here to achieve aresult.

They produced one of their best quarters of the year againsta side thatismaking alate push forfinals,kicking 4.1 (25) in thethird term. But it was to be outdone, as Churchill counteracted withsix goals of their own.

With aquarter to play, the margin stood at 52 points and the Cougars lookedtoease their wayhome.

It wasn’t withouta fight,asGormandale pushed on to score another two goals. Churchill managed 4.4 (28) in the final term

to put afull stop on their 68-point win.

Veteran Brendan Holt kicked seven goals, bringing his overall tally to 41 goals, sitting equal-fifth in the standingswith Woodside’s Daniel Farmer.

RoryPeter (two goals) was namedbeston-ground for the Cougars. Also highlighted was Ashley Di Ciero, Holt, Joseph Whykes, Jack Hasell and Ben Skinner.

Flynn Roscoe played his 50th game for Gormandale at the weekend, and was named in their best, along with Steven Burgess, Tristan Salerno,RyleighMusgrove,Hayden Richards and Trent Baldwin.

Many would suggest that Churchill need to win every game possible to even be achance for finals, currently sitting two games outside the top five.

With Heyfield next week at home, their chances of progressing past the home-andaway season are well and truly on the line.

 HEYFIELD did what was needed.

To gain some comfortability within the top five, the Kangaroos needed to win,and they didjust thatwhen theyhosted Glengarry

The final score read 14.31 (115) to 1.2 (8)

The fact that Heyfield wasabletooutscore Glengarry almost fourtimes over with their behinds alonemight justtell the story in this one.

The scoreboard could have been damning if the Kangaroos’ conversions were reversed.

Heyfield rushed out to a31-point quarter time lead, holding the Magpies to no score, while registering 11 scoringshots of their own.

They might’ve been annoyed with themselves in the second term, as they could only kick one major, yet seven behinds extended their lead by two goals after all that effort.

Glengarry got on the scoreboard before halftime, registering abehind.

Heyfield resurged with their best quarter of the game so far, kicking 4.9 (33), while the Magpies kicked just another point.

The home side would’ve wanted to put the Magpies away in the finalquarter, which they eventually did, but just to give themselves some more percentage while they could.

The Kangaroos kicked 5.8 (38) in the final quarter, while allowing Glengarry to kick their first and only goal of the game, running out as 107-point winners.

Thomas Marchesi,Mitchell Stevens(three goals), Brayden Woodland, Kail Hole, Liam Heasley and Kyle Graham (four goals) were amongthe best forHeyfield.

For the visitors, JamieBassi, Michael Ryan, Jesse Lee, Oscar Poulton, Thomas Harris and Mitch Harris were highlights.

An important matchup comes for Heyfield this week, as they travel to Churchill who will be going into the bout with nothing else other than winning on their mind.

 TRARALGON Tyers United to the top.

It’s theirs for the taking now as the reigning premier finally find themselves back on top of the North Gippsland football ladder.

Their 11.16 (82) to 3.11(29) win over Rosedale wasnowalk in the park, but perhaps their thanks should go the way of Sale City for now. Coming in as favourites, TTU were expected to win, having not lost agame since Round 1. Rosedale put up afight away from home but found themselvesonthe receiving end of areality check.

The Bombersstarted positively with a 10-point advantage at quarter time, but it was by no means convincing, as they scored 2.6 (18), leaving Rosedale in the match.

They established alittlebit more dominance in thesecondterm, charging out to a21-pointlead, but Rosedale aren’tthe pushovers they were last year.More was needed to confirm the win for TTU.

Ahugefour-goaltonothingquarter was whatkept Rosedale at bayofsurprisingTTU in the latter stages of the match. With the seven-goallead up their sleeve going into the final quarter, the Bombers could breathe alittle easier.

Although aflurry of chances went their way in the last quarter, TTU could only muster 2.6 (18) to the Blues’ 1.1 (7), walking away 53-point winners.

Frazar Brouns had aday out against his oldside, kicking five goals and being named best-on-ground. Also mentioned was Oscar Aliotta, Hayden Willaton, Zach Kilgower, Jake Cashmore and Stuart Goddard. For the Blues, BlakeSafstrom, Jay Diamond, Declan Barnett, Brandon McConnell, HarryFoatand Jake Suter were named in the best.

 WINTER has come.

During aday in which many would have expected atough watch, Yallourn Yallourn North still managed to look worlds clear of Cowwarr, despite what the rain and the ground wasdoing forboth, winning 18.12 (120) to 4.4 (28).

George BatesReservehad turned into a mud pit by the time the seniors stepped onto thefield,and would havehad most suspecting it wouldlevel things out between athird versus ninth match-up, but it didn't really matter.

The Jets jumped out to a6.3 (39) to two goals straight leadatquartertime, and added another five goals through the second term to the Saints' one behind.

Across the ground, it was obvious from a talentperspective alone how far advanced YYN were, who returned anumber of key players into their line-up and were strikingly clean despite the conditions from top to bottom.

The Jets would pile on north of five goals through the thirdand fourth quarters before Cowwarr added just one.

Returning YYN defender,Campbell MacInnes took the job of minding former teammate Keenan Hughes, who was tied at the top with YYN's Dean Macdonald for the league goal kicking beforethe game, and stood strong, holding the former Jet to just one goal, albeit when MacInnes was rested on the bench late.

The Saints addedtwo goals in the last quarter justasboth sides were ready to pack it in andhead for the showers after quite the muddied affair.

Dean MacDonald had no problem in aday where sloppy forward entrieswouldn't have been asurprise. He kicked abag of six to go along with multiple goals from Josh Keyhoe (three), Barrie Burnett, JamesDeVirgilio (best-on-ground) and Lachlan Rees.

De Virgilio, MacDonald, Anthony Young, Lucas Fry, Jai Massese and Darcy Shellcot were stars for YYN, while Michael McLellan, Hayden Hector, Hughes, Connor Cook, Brady Hood and Rhys Luxford stood outdespite the result for Cowwarr.

As Woodside fell to Sale City, it sets up a fascinating matchup this weekend, were the Jets could movejust one gamebehind the Wildcats for second on the ladder and scare the daylightsout of the premiership hopefuls.  YARRAM had the bye.

Joining Gormandale FNC duringthe week and on game daywereMelbourne Vixens players Gabby Coffy and Ruby Barkmeyer along with 2016 premiership Bulldog, Tom Boyd.

Photograph: Luke Hemer

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

SENIORS

TMarriott JHarry.Wonthaggi: CMcInnes NAnderson NBrown JBlair BEST: Leongatha: MDonohueJGarnham SForrester JHarry TNashG Dickson. Wonthaggi: IChugg SBrayJ Bates JThomasH Tiziani NAnderson

(79) GOALS: Bairnsdale:BMcCarrey 7L Austin 3J Walker 2JBills EEast TRees.Maffra:CCalwyn 4NChristy3BMonk2A Watt MStobie KRenooy. BEST: Bairnsdale:BMcCarrey LCloak T Blenheim TRees WMitchell LByrne -Jones.Maffra:A Wright JKilloran ACarr AMcKenzie Z FelsbourgCCalwyn WARR AGUL 3.2 7.4 9.6 10.9 (69) SALE6.1 6.2 7.6 9.8 (62)

GOALS: Warragul: JLamb 4S Masterson 2B Paul VCaia RSeniniJDavidson. Sale: JFreeman 3HHolmes DEggmolesse -Smith MMalone SLange JLeslie TCampbell BEST: Warragul: L Serong RSeniniJLamb MSmar tO Wilson PCarpenter.Sale: DEggmolesse -Smith HHolmes SLange JFreeman HTatterson NWhitford

TR AR ALGON 3.2 6.4 11.7 16.10 (106)

MOE 3.44.8 4.9 7.11 (53)

GOALS: Traralgon: DLoprese 3D McKenna 2CBrown 2HNeocleous 2JCunicoL Willaton MJacobsen CAmbler JMcMahon LD’Angelo SHallybur ton. Moe: NProwse3 DKeiltyM Woodall HSim. BEST: Traralgon: JMcMahon MJacobsen LWillaton LTripodi CAmbler D Loprese. Moe: BSmith BMaslen NProwseBDaniher TMatthewsMHeywood

MORWELL 2.2 4.5 5.8 6.12 (48)

DROUIN 1.6 1.9 3.11 5.13 (43)

Morwell: BMcDonald 3ZAndersonJ Galea BMacfarlane.Drouin: KWalmsley 2J McKellar TJohnstone KQuirk BEST: Morwell: BMcDonald BBaileyZAndersonAQuigley C Burr.Drouin: JKingiMCotter KQuirk KWalmsley CQuirk MWilliames

Howcostly will this loss be?

Liam Durkin

GIPPSLAND League players might still be finding mud in weird and wonderful places.

Mothers collected the real three votes after Round 13, as most players presumably handed in their jumpers and have since found them magically clean, dried and folded.

 DID Sale just cost themselves finals?

The Magpies went from fourth to sixth on Saturday nightafter dropping the bundle on the road.

Warragul in the wet at Western Park again proved to be adangerous beast, with the home side edging ahead 10.9 (69) to 9.8 (62).

It was the Gulls’ thirdmajor scalpathome this season, following asimilar victory over Moe in Round 8and reigning Grand Finalist Wonthaggi to start the season.

Sale appeared to have the game under control in the early stages, kicking six goals (including the first four of the game) to three in the opening term.

The Magpies however added just three more majors for the game, as Warragul slowly but surely made their way back into the contest.

The Gulls, who are clearly better than their current position of ninth indicates, kicked four goals in the second quarter to take a handy eight-point lead into the sheds.

Sale possibly kicked themselves out of it in the third, adding 1.4 (10), whileWarragul fared better with less scoring shots, kicking 2.2 (14).

Rain anddrizzle persisted, potentially playinginto the Gulls’ hands, and come three quarter time, the Magpies were two goals down.

Warragulonly managedone goal in the final quarter,coming from playing-coach Jed Lamb soccering in the goal square after getting goal side from ahigh ball.

Thatgoalcamewith around 10 minutes left, and gave the home side enough breathing space to hold on.

Afollow-up goal to Sale captain Jack Leslie fromaset shotstraight in front provedtobe too littletoo late.

Those three goals to Moewere nothing more than consolationseither, all coming in the last 20 minutes of the game. Moe playerscopped an old-fashioned tune-up at three quarter time, after letting in fivegoals and only registering one behind themselves.

for Morwell, kicking three goals which may well have been worth double on adry deck. Playing-coachBoyd Baileywas alsoprominent, as was his brother Brandon who took atimelymarkindefenceata time when Drouin were comingduring the last quarter

Morwell: BWilliamson JMakepeaceCBlewett LPatterson DMakepeaceGCheshire. Drouin: ARothmeier PSaddington KGregg BFlynn XKinder CFleming

(55) WONTHAGGI 0.01.0 1.3 1.5 (11)

GOALS: Leongatha: JPellicano 2NFixterNNagel JBurns RKelly WLittlejohn JRenden. Wonthaggi: ABusana. BEST: Leongatha: JRenden JPellicano NFixterJBurns XBolge W Littlejohn. Wonthaggi: JBrown AMcNeel CMagro CLindsayKBrown JWilliamson TR AR ALGON 5.2 5.3 7.9 11.10 (76) MOE 1.12.3 2.5 3.5 (23)

GOALS: Traralgon: JJackway2C Ruyters 2J Macumber 2BHutton JTwiteA Lovison R Battista FWatts.Moe: SCur tis JMorrowT Blackshaw. BEST: Traralgon: BHutton LHahnA Lovison CRuyters JMacumber BCheetham. Moe: TBlackshaw JMorrowJ Maslen SHanson AWilson DBlackshaw

MAFFR A1.4 3.9 4.11 5.14 (44)

BAIRNSDALE 0.11.1 3.1 4.2 (26) GOALS: Maffra: KBrady 2RPhelan DO’Brien. Bairnsdale: JWaddell 2LDunkley BEST: Maffra: IButters SPendergast BJohnson MHuts WGieschen LDyer. Bairnsdale: RCarstairs D O’Connor JWaddell CMann BFroud JFroud LA DDER PW LD FA %Pts Leongatha 13 13 00 1298 284 457.04 52 Maffra 13 11 20 992 410 241.95

Derek Eggmolesse-Smithwas bestfor Sale,followed by Hudson Holmes, Shannen Lange, Jarrod Freeman (three goals), Harry Tatterson and Nathan Whitford.

Lamb kicked four goals, and received good support from LiamSerong,Riley Senini, Mitch Smart,Oliver Wilsonand Patrick Carpenter.

In the race for atop-five finish, this was a result the Magpies couldn’t afford.

Sale are now equal-fifth with five rounds to go, and there is everychancetheir last game of the season against Bairnsdale will determine who plays finals between the two sides.

 BAIRNSDALE stayed on track for a finals berth.

The Redlegs got past Maffra in acompetitive match, winning by 21 points.

The visitors broke away late to eventually raise the bat, 15.10 (100) to 12.7 (79).

For most of the match, it was aback-andforth affair. Scoreswerelevel at quarter time, before each team enjoyed abreak with their noses in front.

Maffra led by two points at halftime, and Bairnsdale by eight at three quarter time.

Afour goal to two final term gave the Redlegsvictory, which keeps theminside the top five for now.

Warragul did Bairnsdale afavourbyrolling Sale,and might be receiving aChristmas card as athank you at the end of the year.

Traralgon's Jackson McMahon was busy, and seemedtoalways be on the move,which perhaps came as little surprise to see him named best-on. His teammate in big man Max Jacobsen did some good work in the air, while his opposite number Liam Willaton wasequallyeffective at ground level.

Others to playwell for the winners were Lucas Tripodi, Connor Ambler and Dylan Loprese, who slotted three goals.

Better players for Moe were Brock Smith, Ben Maslen, Nick Prowse, Ben Daniher, Tom Matthews and Matt Heywood.

Although the resultwasn’t enough to dislodge the Lions from the top three, it continued their Russian Roulette-type season.

At theirbest, Moehas looked likeworld beaters at times, rolling flag favourites Leongatha and smashing other teams by more than 100 points. On the flipside however, there have been results such as this, and aloss to Sale’s third stringteam that have meant the phrase ‘consistently inconsistent’isn’t too faroff the mark to describe the Lions.

What happened after halftime will undoubtedly leave the Moecoaching staff with questions to ponder, although for spectators at least, it provided aclear demonstration of what Traralgon are capable of.

While premierships aren’t won in July, if the Maroonsplay this well in September, not even Leongatha are going to stop them.

 BATHING has benefits, just not when it consists of 95 per cent mud.

Others to attract votes were Zac Anderson, Aidan Quigley and Charlie Burr. Jordan Kingi was best for the Mud Crabs, followed by Mitch Cotter, Kaidan Walmsley, Caleb Quirk and Max Williames. Drouin were without Will Papley, who it is understoodwill be added to Frankston’s VFL list.

The surfaces in the VFL willsurely offer astark contrast to what he has become accustomed to, an unfortunate reality for someone graduatingfroma‘premier’ league. With the Traralgon Recreation Reserve facility the way it is (third season with portable rooms) and the Drouin oval in its current state, the Gippsland League certainly isn’t being showcased in its best light (through no fault of their own it must be said).

The Drouin mud could soo nhowever be ploughed over and turned into grass, with Baw Baw Shire Council settingaside $4.1 million to upgrade Drouin Recreation Reserve.

That could however come with acaveat, as thereisevery chance it will take up to two years to bring the surface up to scratch. Whether or not that timeframe is accurate remains to be seen, although the Gippsland Times understands Lang Lang has been identified as apotential home ground for Drouin whiletheir ground is being redeveloped.

5.4 10.6 13.8 16.13 (109)

Drouin:KSmith JHuston KGregg CStone KMcLeish TMapleson. Morwell: GJiath OHowe RO’Neill TJames ONania LEffenberg

ALGON 4.1 6.4 10.7 12.10 (82) MOE 1.02.0 3.0 4.0 (24) GOALS: Traralgon: RRutter 4ABlackford2HPirie GRuach WBrent JZappulla BHagleyA Harle.Moe:JChila 2ABattista 2. BEST: Traralgon: ERoscoe RRutter WAmbler BHagleyT Lapenta EPass.Moe: JShields XBerquez JChila WJenkinson KMulley OBudd

WARR AGUL 4.5 11.8 16.10 21.15 (141)

SALE0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 (2) GOALS: Warragul: KBoi 7SGrummisch 5C Mcintosh 3H Jinks 2JSimpson LGiliam LCar ter LMoore. Sale: Details N/A. BEST: Warragul: KBoi CMcintosh MCahill LFrenchJ Simpson S Grummisch. Sale: JGreenwood LCentra KSchoenmaekers STreglown CJohnson TDobson MAFFR A3.1 5.4 11.10 13.10 (88)

BAIRNSDALE

Brayden McCarrey continued what is turning out to be one of the greatest years a small forward has put together since Maffra’s own Mitch Bennett ended the 2017 season with 60 goals.

McCarrey kickedseven at the weekend, taking his season tally to 43. He has shown alikingtoplaying against Sale and Maffra, kicking eight goals in the game against the Magpies, and 11 goals in the two games against the Eagles.

Helping McCarreywas Lachlan Cloak,Tom Blenheim,Tyran Rees,WillMitchell and Lachlan Byrne-Jones.

Best forMaffrawas Ashton Wright, Jett Killoran, Alex Carr, Andrew McKenzie, Zach Felsbourg and Caleb Calwyn (four goals).  YES,itdid rain in Moe.

Traralgon made an absolute mockery of conditions at Ted Summerton Reserve, registering16.10 (106)tothe Lions’ 7.11 (53).

For amatch betweensecondand third, the contestturned intoanything but, which was made all the more bewildering considering Moe kickedthree of the game’s first four goals in the opening 11-and-a-half minutes. Even more so when Traralgon only led by 22 pointsatthe 20-minute mark of the third term, and then went into the last change 40 points up.

Withthe Maroons ahead by eight points at the main break, a10.3(63)to3.3 (21)second half well and truly blew the margin out.

Morwell had their turn sliding around in the Drouin mud at the weekend, and did what they had to do, coming away with a five-point win.

While a6.12 (48) to 5.13 (43) scoreline might not haveappeared all that convincing, the Tigers led at every change, and in the context of the conditions, would have been more than happytosimply takethe four points on the drive back home.

Morwell keptDrouin to asinglegoal in the first half, and ledbyninepoints at three quarter time.

The Hawks cut the margin back to two points at the 21-minute mark of the final term after James McKellar (I think, by then the mud had made it nearlyimpossible to tell who was who) found front position directly in front and slotted the goal.

The next score didnot come until the 28-minute mark, as stoppage after stoppage ensued.

With hissideahead by two points, Tyler Hillier found arare opening to send along ball inside 50 at the northern end of the ground, where it was met by Cody Macdonald, who usedthe outsideofhis rightboottosoccer the ball to the goal square.

The ball was taken over for abehind, meaning Drouin had to go hell-for-leather in order to try and win.

That they did, with akick straight down the middle from the kick out. The Tigers however won the ball back, and chewed up enough time to see themselves to victory. Brandon McDonald wasbest-on-ground

The Lang Lang facility has two pristine ovals,althoughgivenitisnearly30minutes and awhole othershire (Cardinia) away, its practicality could be called into question (Bairnsdale to Lang Lang, now that is abus trip).

 LEONGATHA withstood Wonthaggi. The Parrots recorded an unspectacular 14-point win, in aresult that is likely to give no cause for celebration or concern for either side.

In what was an arm wrestle for the most part at Leongatha, the home side held alead around 10-15 points throughout the day, winning 7.8 (50) to 4.12 (36).

Young gun Max Donohue was best for the Parrots, followed by Jenson Garnham (four goals), Sam Forrester, Jackson Harry, Travis Nash and Guy Dickson.

Isaac Chugg, Shannon Bray, Josh Bates, Jakeb Thomas, Hunter Tiziani and Noah Anderson did well for Wonthaggi.

Leongatha captain Tom Marriott played his first game in four weeks, and is likely to be joined by afew other seasoned veterans over the next few rounds.

Few clubs know how to peak as well as the Parrots do, and astaggered approach could see the likes of Cade Maskell,Sean Westaway and Luke Bowman ready to explode come finals time.

Wonthaggi on the other hand will need to take adifferent path.

The Power are currently agameout of the top five, and therefore don’t have the luxury of resting players. Instead, Wonthaggi will aim to build up a head of momentum on the run home and hope they don’t run outofpetrol tickets during September -ifindeed they get there.

The traditional football mud bath wasseen around the grounds in Gippsland at the weekend. Pictured areMorwell players after playing at theinfamous Drouin oval

Photo: Contributed

CHEYENNE

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Sale City can’t be stopped

Blake Metcalf-Holtand Erika Allen

GIPPSLAND League netball returned at the weekend following the league-wide bye. Despite their being aclear premiership favourite since before the season even began, sides are still racing to securespots at the highest possible point.

Sale and Maffra again found the going tough. Warraguldefeated Sale65to38atWestern Park to create atop three that looks certain not to be challenged after 13 rounds.

The Gulls’ Emma Ryde tookher opportunities at everyturn with a53-goal gametocombat31goals from Sake’s Kate Vander Voort.

Sale may have had aright to feel confident heading into the game after their firstwin last roundagainst Maffra,but Warragul are an entirely different beast.

Bairnsdale tore Maffra to shreds, 74-34 to keep their finals chances well and truly alive.

The Eagles held firm early,notching 13 goals to the Redlegs18, but the potential top five side would then pour in 56 goals the rest of the way as Maffrasubmitted two quarters with just three and four goals entirely.

Anna Mooney and SallyDeller had 43 and 31 goals respectivelyfor Bairnsdale, while Keisha Jackson and ChloeFelsbourg had 20 and14for Maffra.

The Redlegs are currentlyhave awin-lossrecord of 7-6, tied with Wonthaggi and Traralgon for fifth position on theladder.

In other games, the undefeated Moe obliterated Traralgon 67-33, while Wonthaggi moved past Leongatha in aclose game 56-53.

Drouin look the real deal afteranotherimpressive win, this time defeating Morwell 47-37.



FROM top to bottom, every club must be aware of how little remains in the home-andaway season, and pundits were treated to a Round 13 of North Gippsland netball that had close calls for all but one game.

Heyfield and Glengarry drew at the weekend, 42-all.

The Roogirls were fighting to remain in close range of atop two finish come season’s end, but astalemate brought the blue and white closer to Woodside in fourth for the time being.

Heyfieldwill have achance to redeemthis result with ashowdown against second-placedChurchill this weekend.

Glengarry,comingoff afew strong performances against lower-ranked sides, acted on their recent form and took points away from home.

The Magpies now sit just agame back of fifth behind TTU and Rosedale.

Sale City kept rolling on as they took down Woodside in a43-41 affair at Stephenson Park.

The Bulldogs have ran through theirfirst11 games without asingleblemish against each of the sides in the competition… except for their biggest challenger, Churchill who they will eventually play in Round 16.

The Wildcats were coming off four straight wins before the loss at the weekend, but still sit only one win back off Heyfield for third position on the ladder.

Rosedale bounced back from ashort lapse against Heyfield and defeated TTU in Tyers, 46-41.

The resultevens things up for bothsides siting at awin-lossrecord of 6-6, but TTU holdfifth position thanks to percentage.

YYN secured their third win of the season in a rousing one-goal victory against Cowwarr, 37-36.

The win moved the Jets two points above their weekend opponents into eighth, and as for the Saints,itwas their fourth loss in arow.

Churc hill pumped Gormand ale 69-32 at Gormandale.

Yarram had the bye.

 ANOTHER late change at the top of the ladder bumped Stratford into third at the conclusion of Round 12 of East Gippsland netball.

Asecond losswas addedtothe Swans’ record against Wy Yung this season, as the Tigers triumphed by 17 goals at home.

The travelling Swans were no match for the accuracyofthe Tigers, who have movedfourpoints clear of Stratford.

Boisdale-Briagolong shot away from Lakes Entrance early on.

The Bombers were unstoppable on their home court, winning through 64-36.

Mollie Huts was untouchable under the post as she used her height to pluck lobs out of the air. Her goal scoring accuracy was assisted by Rachel Weatherly and Sarah Gardiner. The three of them highlighted the Bomberscan call on their versatility when required.

Lucknow dusted up Lindenow by 36 goals.

The win helps the Magpies maintain theirposition at the top of the ladder with five rounds left in the regular season.

Elsew her e, Orb ost Sn owyR overs def ea ted Paynesville convincingly, 65-32.

Fortunes changehands in race for AFL finals

TomHayes

THE last couple of weeks at AFL level have been defiant, and at local level no one can seem to find their groove.

Only six rounds remain in the 2024 AFL season before finals gets underway, as players and clubs scramble in the race for the top eight.



COLLINGWOOD slump to 12th on the ladder following their loss to Geelong at the MCG at the weekend.

The Magpies were right in the thick of the game for three quarters,before adefining 30 minutes of football from the Cats determined them as the winner, 13.13 (91) to 10.11 (71).

Barelyanythingcould separate the twoupto this point up to halftime, and entering the third quarter it was much of the same.

Two late goals to Geelong saw them regain the lead and stretch it out to 11 points as they headed into the last quarter.

Dubbed as the comebackkings, Collingwood were still in this game, but the Cats added to their score earlyand putanend to Collingwood’s possession.

The Cats gotout to a26-point lead, but alate goal saw the margin settle at 20 points.

Sale’s Scott Pendlebury was quieter than usual for the Magpies, onlycollecting14disposals and three clearances.

 NORTH Melbourne was outplayed by Sydney, as the Swans snapped atwo-game losing streak, winning 20.18 (138) to 9.5(59).

Starting slow, whichisn’t an abnormality for the Swans, they only led by two points at the end of thefirst term.

But, true to usual Sydney fashion of this season, the game was over by halftime, as the Swans kicked seven goals to one, blowingthe game out of the water, leading by 42 at halftime.

Another six goals in the third term saw them surpass triple digits.

Afour-goal to two final quarter put the stamp on the win for Sydney who now go 12 points clear on top of the ladder.

Sale’s CharlieComben had atough day in defence, but managed 15 disposals and ninemarks in a tricky display.

 ADELAIDE jumped back over St Kilda on the ladder following atense game of football at the weekend.

Despite an insanely tight and low-scoring three quartersoffootball,the Crows cruised home in the finalquarter at Adelaide Oval to beat the Saints 10.11 (71) to 5.9 (39).

The Saints led by eight points at quarter time, but then trailed by four points at the main interval after athree-goal to one term.

Adelaide leapt out to an eight-point lead with a quarter to play, before smashing the Saints in the final term, kicking four goals to none.

Maffra’s Sam Berry had 15 touches in adominant inside display, also collecting seven clearance and 12 tackles.

 BRISBANE and Yarram’s Josh Dunkley entered the top four for the first time this season.

The Lionstravelled westtoface the Eaglesat the weekend,with Brisbane prevailing away from home, 16.10 (106) to 14.9(93).

WestCoast farewelled departing premiership coach, and former Sale junior footballer, Adam Simpson, at theend of what was amessy period at the club.

On the field, West Coast put up afight against a side who are proving to be one of the scariest teams to face in this final stretch into finals.

The Lions hit agame-high 28-point lead early in the finalterm, but theEagles finished strong to give the Lions ascare.

Dunkley had 26 disposals and soccered oneoff the ground through the big sticks, along with four marks, fourclearances and over400 metres gained.

The Lions move into fourth, now just two points from second-placed Carlton, who have lost two on the bounce.

Netball scoreboard

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE -ROUND 13

AGRADE:Warragul 65 def Sale 38, Wonthaggi 56 def Leongatha 53, Moe 67 def Traralgon 33, Bairnsdale 74 def Maffra 34, Drouin 47 def Morwell 37

BGRADE:Warragul 36 def Sale 35, Leongatha 50 def Wonthaggi41, Moe 59 def Traralgon 54, Bairnsdale 57 def Maffra 51,Drouin 41 def Morwell 36.

CGRADE:Warragul 37 def Sale 27,Leongatha 30 def Wonthaggi 24, Traralgon 40 def Moe 29, Maffra 38 def Bairnsdale 31,Morwell 36 def Drouin 31 17 AND UNDER:Sale 51 defWarragul 14, Leongatha 43 def Wonthaggi 25, Traralgon 64 def Moe 27,Bairnsdale 40 def Maffra 38, Drouin 48 def Morwell 32. 15 ANDUNDER:Sale 67 def Warragul 24, Leongatha 33 def Wonthaggi 30, Traralgon 42 def Moe 28, Bairnsdale 53 def Maffra 23, Morwell 30 def Drouin 28. 13 ANDUNDER:Sale52d ef Wa rragul 2, Leongatha 47 def Wonthaggi 6, Moe 33 def Traralgon32, Maffra 26 def Bairnsdale24, Drouin 41 def Morwell 15

NORTH GIPPSLAND –ROUND 13

AGRADE:YYN 37 def Cowwarr 36, Sale City 43 def Woodside 41,TTU 41 defRosedale 36, Heyfield 42 drew Glengarry 42, Churchill 69 def Gormandale 32, Yarram -BYE.

BGRADE:YYN 69 def Cowwarr 17,Sale City 57 def Woodside 43, TTU42def Rosedale 32, Heyfield 53 def Glengarry 25, Gormandale 55 def Churchill 44, Yarram -BYE.

CGRADE:YYN 28 def Cowwarr 22, Woodside 41 def Sale City 37,TTU 35 def Rosedale 31, Glengarry 30 def Heyfield14, Churchill 34 def Gormandale 31,Yarram -BYE.

DGRADE:YYN 30 def Cowwarr 29, Sale City 37 def Woodside 32, Rosedale 36 def TTU34, Glengarry26def Heyfield 16,Churchill 38 def Gormandale 23, Yarram -BYE. 17 AND UNDER:YYN 60 def Cowwarr 3, Sale City 56 def Woodside 11,Rosedale 28 def TTU 22, Glengarry 25 def Heyfield 20, Gormandale 29 def Churchill 27,Yarram -BYE. 15 AND UNDER:YYN 38 def Cowwarr 4, Sale City 34 def Woodside 24, TTU36def Rosedale.

EAST GIPPSLAND –ROUND 12

AGRADE:WyYung 55 def Stratford38, Orbost SnowyRovers65def Paynesville 32, Luckonw 62 def Lindenow 26, Boisdale-Briagolong 64 def Lakes Entrance 36.

BGRADE:ORS 63 def Paynesville 11,WyYung40 def Stratford29, Lucknow 35 def Lindenow 29, Boisdale-Briagolong 41 def Lakes Entrance 26.

CGRADE:OSR 41 def Paynesville 17,WyYung 31 drew Stratford31, Lucknow 34 defLindenow 29, Boisdale-Briagolong 37 def Lakes Entrance 25. DGRADE:OSR 37 def Paynesville 14,WyYung 45 def Stratford22, Lucknow 30 def Paynesville 15, Boisdale-Briagolong 52 def Lakes Entrance 20. 17 ANDUNDER:WyYung 36 def Stratford16, OSR 49 def Paynesville 10,Lucknow 10 defPaynesville 0, Lakes Entrance 39 def Boisdale-Briagolong 29. 15 ANDUNDER:Stratford37def Wy Yung 21, Paynesville 45 def OSR 33, Boisdale-Briagolong 28 def Lake Entrance 20, Lindenow 46 def Lucknow 34.

FOOTBALL NETBALL EAST GIPPSLAND

ROUND

Footy briefs withLiamDurkin

Super Sheen

FORMER Maffra forward Darren Sheen slotted his 1200th career goal at the weekend.

The man mountain, now playingf or Meeniyan DumbalkUnited,kicked 11 goals on his way to the mark.

Sheenhas been with MDU in the Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League for the last two seasons.

He spent four seasons at Maffra from 2013 to 2015, before returning for aone-year stint in 2017.

ECarroll LCarroll MDuggan NBottom MPearce WCantrill ORBOST SNOWYROVERS 6.5 10.9 15.10 20.13 (133) PAYNESVILLE 0.3 1.5 3.7 4.8 (32)

GOALS: Orbost Snowy Rovers: LFenner 6HNettleton 4T Smith 2WWalker 2BRoss 2J Humphreys2M Fenner SNippress. Paynesville: AMcLaren2 TBrown BMcKinnon. BEST: Orbost Snowy Rovers: LFenner WWalker TSmith AJonkers ZWebb GRogers.Paynesville: C Mein LSmith JFarquhar JRay AMcLaren OPike STR ATFORD1.1 4.3 6.6 10.8 (68) WY YUNG 2.3

Stratford: AMorcom3R

2WWebb2 THawkins JSchultz JBacon. Wy Yung: JBetts 3HKellow2MSavage 2JNicholls LElia. BEST: Stratford: BReid AMorcomJ Bacon LBolton JSchultz RThatcher.WyYung: NSomer ville MTomsJ Broome JHodson JHalabut NWard

LA DDER

Boisdale Briagolong: DPratt 3J Whelan BJones DGrinstead-Jones APadula Z Mawson TRuthbergJ Dennis.Lakes Entrance:C Graham JDaly. BEST: Boisdale Briagolong JNeilleT RuthbergNSellingsS Bates DGrinstead-Jones JOsborn. Lakes Entrance: BDaley M Stevens AHatch CGoold NMcDonnell ARimmer

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GOALS: Lucknow: NMooney 6SRyan2C McAuliffe2 TJohnstone 2T Coxhill LStricklandCohen BSmith MBommer LCroucher.Lindenow: TDuignan KHarrison. BEST: Lucknow: D Evans LCroucher TCoxhill BSmith CMcAuliffeN Mooney.Lindenow: KBongers BRitchie J Stewar tJ MayesV Liavaa JFinn

Orbost

SnowyRovers: JJoiner ADavis H

CDownwardJ Lavell AKenny.Paynesville: NPincott TLittleT Wilson DWhittingham ASelleck LSmith

WhileatMaffra, he kicked two tons and won two league goal-kicking awards.

His returns for the Eagles were most impressive,going 107 goals in 2013,then 111 in 2014, followed by 86 in 2015 and 49 in 2017, including five in aone-point losing Grand Final.

In 2013, he set aMaffra record with 17 goals in one game.

The jou rne yman has kic ked buc kets of goals across Gippsland, with stints at Maffra, Cora Lynn, and MDU, as well as Koo Wee Rup, Doveton, Narre Warren and Heathmont.

Best in the business

WHILE on key forwards, former Traralgon coach Jake Best had aday out for Foster at the weekend.

Bestkicked awhopping15goals for the Tigers against Hill End.

Remarkably, his effort came in as low as

fifth on the Foster all time record for goals in agame (the record is 24 by Craig Hams).

He did however set afamily record, going past his dad Rob's personal best of 14.

The senior Best is alocal legend, having played 500 games for Foster.

He was also the long-serving editor of the Foster Mirror untilits unfortunate closure just last month.

Perhaps cheekily, his son left the field at Willow Grove Recreation Reserve after kicking his 15th goal.

Best was unable to play last year due to injury, and left the post of Traralgon coach after three years.

He has certainly left the Maroons in agood way, with the team currently in premiership contention.

One can't help but feel just how shorter their odds would be if they had lastyear's team running around now.

Combinehow Traralgon are going now and then add Mark Collison,Tom Schneider, Brett Eddy and Best to the line-up.

SneakySwans

COULD Stratty pinch it this year?

The Swans might still be fourth on the East Gippsland ladder, but with wins over premiership fancy Lucknow and reigning premier Wy Yung(twice), they are surely looming as the competition's dark horse.

Thisperhapsdoesn't quiteline up when you consider Stratford has barely beaten

the bottom sides. The Swans only beat Lindenow by 20 points, Lakes Entrance by 30 and Paynesville by 28.

Stratford however has ahistory of playing better when there is more at stake, and it might simply be within the players’ DNA to 'get up' for bigger games.

Recent examples of this include the 2022 premiership, when they defeated Wy Yung for the first time all year in the semi-final, and in 2019.

That year, the Swans battled amidseason slumpand managed injuries to come home full of steam and only miss finals after the very last game -bytwo points against eventual premier Lindenow.

Stratford officials are adamant they could havegoneall theway hadthey snuck in

The same might spill over to the cricket club.

Quite often the Redbackshaveended homeand-away campaigns far from the top of the ladder, and gone on to playinGrand Finals

As they say, finals are awhole newseason, and once you are there,anythingcan happen.

Sitting on topofthe EastGippyladder currently though is Boisdale-Briagolong.

The Bombers, having played in Grand Finals in 2019 and last year only to fall short, will have every reason to believe this is their year.

AStratford/Boisdale-Briagolong Grand Final would indeedbeepic, and perhaps set agaterecord.

Eagles send Simpson packing

TomHayes

FORMER Sale City junior footballer, Adam Simpson said goodbye to West Coast Eagles last week, after 11 years as senior coach.

Simpson played in an under 15s premiershipfor the Bulldogs, before forging his way in the AFL.

He hada 15-yearAFL playing career with North Melbourne, playing306 games for the Kangaroos, winningtwo premierships in 1996 and 1999.

After retirement, Simpson turned to coaching and moved to Hawthorn as an assistant under mastermind Alistair Clarkson.

He endured success in the brown and gold as the forward and midfield coach during the 2013 AFL season, when the Hawks won the first of ahat-trick of premierships.

The following year, he was appointed senior coach of West Coast, replacing premiership coach John Worsfold.

In his second year at the club, Simpson led the Eagles to the Grand Final, where ironically, they faced his former club -Hawthorn.

Simpson coached the Eaglestofinalsin

2016 and 2017, landing aflag in 2018.

Coming up against Collingwood, many people already know what happened. All we need to mention is “Sheed from the boundary”.

Sheed kicked the winning goal in that memorableGrand Final, the build-up of which involved Yarram boy Nathan Vardy. Vardy accepted ap as sf rom Jeromy McGovern,who then found Liam Ryan, who in turn hit Sheed.

The four players have since immortalised that passage of play, each signing ajumper to keep. Vardy went astepfurther, getting the YouTube QR code to the video tattooed on his ankle.

The Eagles again made finals in 2019 and 2020, but have not featured since.

 COVID arguably disrupted West Coast more than any other club -atone stagethe Eagles hadonly 20 fit players available as cases skyrocketed.

After what can only be described as a muddy period for the club, Simpson and West Coast parted ways last week.

The Eagles had won just 10 games and lost

60 since the bye in 2021.

It was rumoured that leaked text messages between players showedtheir disapproval of Simpson, creating atense atmosphere around the club.

At the press conference, West Coast Chief Executive, Don Pyke asked Simpson if he’d like to coach one final game. During the week it was identified that he declined, and instead tossed the coinbefore the match against the Brisbane Lions on Sunday after afarewell speech to the Eagles faithful at Optus Stadium.

Simpson drafted Maffra local, Coby Burgiel to the club in 2022.

Burgiel is yet to play agame for the AFL side, but he has put up consistent numbers in the WAFL when fit.

Simpson was replaced by his assistant coach,JarradSchofield,who took control as caretaker coach at the weekend. Schofield will remain as caretaker for the remainder of the season.

Former West Coast premiershipruckman and current Sydney Swans assistant coach, Dean Cox is oneofthe favourites to take the main role for the 2025 season.

ARyanT HouseKMahoney CFelmingham MCoridas PLee

AJoiner CFindley RMacalister.Paynesville: RHargreavesJMay NTough DBoucher THarrisonJ Brodribb

Maffra twilight meet this weekend

MAFFRA And District Car Club willhold Round 5ofthe Boisdale Hillclimb Series this Saturday (July 20), with aLong Track and Twilight race meeting.

This event is also around of the Victorian Championship Autocross Series (VCAS), withentrants in avariety of vehicles from across the state expected to race against the clock on the gravel track.

To the casualobserver,anautocross is very similar to astandard hillclimb, however thereare acouple of features that distinguish the difference between the two.

Anormal hillclimb has a‘standing start’ -timing is set very close to the start line -and relies on the quickest time by theend of the event for class positions

An autocross has what is known as a ‘flying start’ whereby the timing beam is afew metres further downthe track from the start line, and class position is determinedbyadding the three fastest times by the end of the meeting. Consistency is key, with an autocross as against trying to gain one fast time in astandard hillclimb.

Racing will commenceat1pm,with free entry to all spectators and akiosk will be open throughout the meeting. In Long Track format -the addition of an extra ‘loop’ -racing will continue into the evening under lights testing the drivers’ skills, concluding at around 8pm. The Boisdale Hillclimb Track is located at 239 Boisdale-Newry Road, Boisdale. Further information about the Maffra AndDistrict CarClub and the Boisdale Hillclimb is available at: madcc.com.au or by phoning Adrian Britton on 0418 561 053.

Bombers fly to top, Swans roll premier again

Blake Metcalf-Hot

THE results were had and now East Gippsland football enters an unimagined point.

For the previous 11 weeks, it had seemed clear that the premiership was well and truly athreeteam race,but uponStratford’s performance at the weekend, the premiership race is now wide open between the Swans, Boisdale-Briagolong, Lucknow and Wy Yung.

 ROUND 12 saw Stratford get on top of reigning premier Wy Yung for the second time this year, in a10.8(68) to 9.4 (58) finish.

The Tigers seemed to have control for much of the game, especially in the first half. However, they only led by eight pointsatquarter time and agoal at halftime.

Scoringpicked up, and Wy Yunggot on top with afour-goal to two thirdquarter thatended 9.4 (58) to 6.6 (42).

What followed was unexpected to say the least.

Callan Egan also chipped in with four goals. Emmett and Liam Carroll, Matthew Duggan, Noah Bottom, Matthew Pearce and Will Cantrill stood tall for the Seagulls.

The Bombers moved to the top of the ladder for the first time all season with the win, narrowly surpassing Lucknow by percentage.

 LUCKNOW got back on track after aloss to the Bombers before the league-wide bye with a 46-point takedown of bottom-placed Lindenow, 15.13 (103) to 8.9 (57).

It did not start well for the Cats, who already found themselves behind 6.5 (41) to three points at quarter timebefore entering the main break down by 42 points at home.

The Magpies would cooloff slightly,perhaps due to the increased pressure Lindenow knew they needed to press, as it was an even four goals both ways through to the final siren.

Lucknowstill hadthe individual goal kickers to highlight, with John Gooch and Dallas Smith booting fourgoalseach, Jackson Smithcontributed ahandy three.

The premier concededfour goals in thedeciding term, and also did not find ascore at all through the fourth quarter on their home deck, meaning Stratford would be nothing but smiles the rest of the weekend.

The Swanssaw top playfromBrodey Reid, Alex Morcom (three goals), Jack Bacon, Lewis Bolton, Jack Schultz and Ryan Thatcher. Wy Yung’s Nate Somervile, MitchellToms, Joshua Broome, Jack Hodson, Jack Halabut and Nicholas Ward could keep their heads high.

Stratford, who now pose as the dark horse for the flag,carrya win-loss record of 8-3, leaving them only agame behind Boisdale-Briagolong and Lucknow at the top.

The Magpies were led by Andrew Nelson, Smith, Joel Mcnamara, Ryan Halford, Gooch and Jake Richards, whilethe Cats had Peter Harrison, Darren Allen, Lucas Lakay, Michael Young,David Donchi and Nathan Hay showing good signs.

 ORBOST Snowy Rovers smashed Paynesville to the tune of 101 points, 20.13 (133) to 4.8 (32).

The Blues did all their damage early on, as they hunt for alate finals push by significantly bolsteringtheir percentage.

The visitors didmuch of theirdamage early,up 10.9 (69) to 1.5 (11)athalftime

Don’t come Monday

 THE rest of the games weren’t so appealing. Boisdale-Briagolong took the head of Lakes Entrance and spun it around 60 times in the two hours of play at the weekend, winning 17.10 (112) to 8.3 (51).

Yes, he’s aformer Sale local. West Coast Eagles coach, Adam Simpsonwas givenhis marchingorders last week, following ahorrific few seasons at the helm. Find out about his early footy days in Gippsland on PAGE 31.

Photo: AFL Galleries

It wasn’t exactly asmashingearly on, as the Bombers, who led 6.3 (39) to 2.1(13) at quarter time, displayed signs for how the rest of the game would play out.

Boisdale-Briagolong just short of 50 points and then 70 points at each of the next two breaks, pulled to ahaltwith justone goal in the final quarter of action.

Matthew Wilkinsonwas recognised as the beston Boisdale Recreation Reserve, whileThomas Jolly, JimReeves (six goals), Billy Marshall, Jackson Glenane and Rhys Johnson played key roles in the sizeable victory.

OSR would match their first half efforts, tallying five goals in each of the final quarters to run home huge winners.

Lachlan Frenner was best on groundfor the winners with six goals, followed by William Walker, Thomas Smith, Ashliegh Jonkers, Zach Webb and GusRodgers. Hamish Nettletonalsonotched four goals for the Blues.

Chris Mein, Lewis Smith, JordanFarquhar, Jordan Ray, Alex McLarenand OscarPike did their best for Paynesville.

Orbost are now 6-5, two games back from fourth. East Gippsland scoreboard- Page 31