GIppsland Times Tuesday 30 July 2024

& MAFFRA SPECTATOR Times

TOY STORY

Two-year-old Sam Habersberger takesone of

Correct Grammar

within all educational institutions.

GIPPSL AND Gram mar Prin

cipal

MicheleWakeham is adamant that the school is in “a secure financial position” afteranews report publishedlastweek shined aspotlight on theirfinances.

“AndIamunequivocallyconfident that ourschool will continue to flourish as one of Victoria’sleadingprivate schools and be the school of choicefor families for the next 100 years,” Ms Wakeham said.

The Gippsland Times reached out to the school after a Herald Sun story publishedlast week reported anumber of concerns by an independent auditor for the school’s future.

The co-ed private school, which has campuses in Sale and Bairnsdale, was independently audited by Rachelle Wrig gleswort hf rom busin ess and strategic financial management service company ForeFront.

Ms Wrigglesworthfound that the school had aworking capital deficiency of $3.4 million, which indicated“amaterial uncertainty exists that may cast doubt on the school’s ability to continue as agoing concern”.

“We also draw attention to Note 16 in the financialreport, which describes the uncertainty related to the outcomeof current legal claims against the Entity,”

Ms Wrigglesworth wrote in the report. Ms Wakeham says the financial information printed by the Herald Sun was sourced fromapublicly available report that “we are required to publish with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) each June”.

Thereport canberead by searching for Gippsland Grammar on acnc.gov.au/ charity/charities

“The article made alinkbetween our enrolments and our financial viability, however Ican reassure you that this is acommon practice for financial lending

Unfortunately,the figures published were not an accurate representation of our whole school enrolments from ELC to Year 12,” Ms Wakeham said.

“Our 2023 enrolment figures from ELC to Year 12 were1127, not 1020 as was reported (in the Herald Sun) And Gippsland Grammar is not seven enrolments away from meeting our loan requirements. This figure is 114.

“I am pleased to reassure you our enrolments have grown 5.8 per cent since 2019 and are currently the highest our school has ever recorded. This gives us and our lender, NationalAustralia Bank,confidence.”

The Herald Sun report said the school incurred alossof$504,705 last year. The school confirmed to the Gippsland Times thisfigure, but said it doesn’tpainta full picture of the school’s finances.

The school’s 2023 financial report

notes the school is expecting continuity of normal business activities.

The Herald Sun also pointedtoa number of legal claimsagainst the school relating to sexual abuse, with the financialburden of these claims unable to be determined.

In 2022, the Gippsland Times reported that aformer student received $1.1million in compensation related to multiple incidents of sexual abuse more than 30 years ago. Rightside Legal lawyer Laird MacDonald has been involved in representing abuse survivors from the school.

Ms Wakeham said, “while the schoolis ashamed that individuals have betrayed our community’s trust in the past, that does not reflect the school we are today”.

“We havebeen consistently transparent about these matters when we have been in alegal position to do so.”

Continued -page3

Locals lackingthe basic needs

IREADwith interest, Page 2ofthe Gippsland Times on 23/07/24, 'Compost expansion backed' -the state government proudly informing us locals.

Ifirst moved to Sale on Easter of 2022 and read ratepayers would be getting Green Waste Collection (then thinking, 'geez behind the times').

I'm surprisedmore Gippslandershaven't cracked it withcostofliving challenges,and thelocal shire shouldaccommodateabasic 20th century requirement.

More grass to mow.

Let's hope they get it right this time.

Hayden Nichol Sale

Farm safety

JULY14-20, 2024 marked Farm Safety Week, as well as the annual release of the annual Safer Farms Report from Farmsafe.

Iwas saddened to read in this year’s report that there has already been 10 fatalities on Victorian farms in the first six months of 2024 -aworrying

jumpfromthe seven fatalities that occurredon Victorian farms through 2023.

To be clear, there is no number other than zero that would be acceptable.

For manyresidentsofGippsland South,farms arenot just workplaces, but also homes. They are where families live and play and we must ensure safety is apriority.

Iamencouraging everyone who lives or works on afarming property to take the time to read the report and considerwhatchanges might be able to be implemented on your farm to prevent unnecessary loss of lives.

To read the Safer Farms Report, visit: farmsafe.

org.au

Danny O'Brien

Member for Gippsland South Rationale

debate

IREFER to your story 'Stupidity wins in forestry' (Gippsland Times 02/07/24).

Thank you, PhillipHopkins, for yourarticle,

based on the work of Dr Alf Leslie and his major contributiontothe processes of logical thinking and debate.

What you have written of Leslie’s arguments for more rationalthinking when debatingthe pros and cons of any task/job/project to be undertaken is very clearly not being followedbysomanyofour nations and stateleaders,nor indeed far too many of us everyday citizens.

And so, it is small wonder that our world is becoming more and more fractious.

Leslie’sspeciality interest in forestry and his ability to base decision making on rational thinking -discussing the pros and cons of an objective, assessing all risksinreachingthat objective e.g. financial,reputational, potential for harm to arise (to people, environment, etc)-seem now to be increasingly neglected by leaders of all persuasions, be they corporate or political.

Where indeed, has the long-used practice of conducting honest, ethical and, dare Isay,moral, cost-benefit analysis of any undertaking gone?

Steve Baldwin, Sale

Over to you

IT'S abit hard to follow Mr Dutton's logic in calling for an open mindeddebate about nuclear power in Australia, when he is refusing to show his cards. He says that "some of the cleverestminds in Australia" have been advising him about the issue. But he won't tell us who they are nor what their qualifications are.

Doesn't he realise that before the public can form an opinion, we need the experts to tell us what the facts are?

On July 24,the president of the Academy of TechnologicalScientists and Engineering, Catherine Woodthorpe publicly stated that "the building of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs) before the switch-off of coal-fired power stations would be impossible".

Shewent on to explain that there is not one SMRinany OECD (Organizationfor Economic Cooperation and Development) nation thathas been successfully developed and thatweshould takenoteoflarge-scalenuclear projects in the UK for example, up being 2.8 times the original estimate and will be 15 years overdue.

Ms Woodthorpe stated that she could not see

SMRs beingoperational until the mid 2040sat the earliest.

She joins three past and current chief scientists, Chubb, Finkel and Foley, The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), the Business Council of Australia(BCA) and several other Business organisations, the National Farmers Federation, severalthank tanks like the Grattan Institute and notable economists like Rod Sims, Ross Garnaut and Chris Richardson who have all expressed similar views.

Namely that Nuclear energy for Australia will be too expensive,too late to replaceretiringcoal power stations and too late to reduce carbonemissions to avoidfurther damage to our climate.

Once the experts have debated the issue, let the people decide, but we can't makeaproper decision untilwehave the details Mr Dutton.

Over to you.

Dan Caffrey Traralgon

THE Gippsland Times welcomes letters to the editor.

Preference will be given to brief, concise letters which address local issues.

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

The Gippsland Times does not publish letters from anonymous contributors.

Letters must include aphonenumber or email address and the author's hometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity. Readers are entitled to one right of reply to aletter directly solely at them. The views expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Gippsland Times management or staff.

Email letters to news@gippslandtimes.com.au

Farm Safety Week passed,sharing awareness for working safe on farms.

Photo: Contributed

Lunchtime arrest ma de in Sale

ErikaAllen

POLICE were quick to arrest aman following an assault in Sale last Thursday.

Officers havebeen toldthe man pushed another man off achair on Raymond Street around 12.55pm. Victoria Police said it is believed that the 24-year-oldman from Sale alsocaused damage to anearby sign after kicking it.

In amatter of minutes, aboutfour policeofficers swiftlyarrested the man in an alcove adjacent to PK EquipmentonMacAlister St.Police had the man restrainedbyaround 1pm. As the man was pursued, shouting could be heard from inside buildings, coaxing people onto the street. Two policecars with theirlightsonparkedinfront of PK Equipment and another car pulledupshortly after

There were at leastsix bystanders on the street as police handcuffed the man. Cars continued driving past at what was abusytime of the day on MacAlister St. Victoria Police said the man was cooperating with their enquiries

Anyone with information is urgedtocontact Crime Stoppers by phoning 1800333 000 or submitaconfidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au

Pictured right: Policearresteda24-year-old Sale manfollowing an allegedassaulton Raymond Street last Thursday.

Photos:Erika Allen

Grammar school responds to financial allegations

From page 1

IN Marchthis year,the school wrote about

‘Re achin gO ut ’, ap rog ra ma nd pro cess establishedtosupport survivors of historic abuse. The program can be read at this URL: gippslandgrammar.au/community/reaching-out

“I can positively and genuinely reassure you that our students are currentlylearning and thriving at aschool that is also learning and thriving. Gippsland Grammar has acommitted Leadership team and staff dedicated to the success of our school and who Iamproud to work

alongside everysingleday,” Ms Wakehamsaid.

“Our Leadership team is supported by an equally professional and passionate Board with extensive corporate and financial experience.Together we are confident, positive and energised about our school’s future.”

If youoranyone you know needs help, theseservices are available:

13 11 14

Addressing homelessness

THE state governmenthas announced anew initiative to support Victorians out of homelessness and into their very own homes, with inner Gippsland among the first areas of operation.

InnerGippsland contains the Latrobe, South Gippsland, Baw Baw and Bass Coast local government areas.

The Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing, announced eight agencies had been chosen to deliver the new Homes First program.

“Finding people asafe and secure place to call home is one part of breaking the cycleofhomelessness, the other is making sure they have the wraparound supports they needtothrive,”Ms Shing said.

“Homes First is evidence-based and will provide practical, on-the-groundsupporttohundredsof Victorians right across the state. This is an opportunity to break the cycle of homelessness –because we know that having secure, stable housing with wraparound supports leads to better outcomes across the board.”

In amedia release, the government says it is investing $48 million to help 500 households over the next three years access to long-term housing and support.

Melbourne City Mission, Sacred Heart Mission, QuantumSupport Services, Junction Support Services and CatholicCare Victoria have been selectedtodeliver the programineight areas across the state,where there is aneed more support

services for homeless people or who are at risk of sleeping rough.

As well as accommodation, those in the program will receive intensive support to ensure they are getting the responsive, flexible wrap-around support that they need to thrive,which may include mental health, drug and alcohol, financial counselling and family violence support for those who need it.

The government saysHomes First hasbeen designed on evidence-based Housing First principles, which are focused on supportingpeople first to find asafeand secure home, then to access support and wraparound servicestohelp them sustain the tenancy, and that "evidence shows that this approach is critical to breaking the cycle of homelessness".

At least 10 per cent of Homes First funding will be targeted towards Aboriginal communitycontrolled organisations, to ensure responses have self-determination at the centreoftheir approach.

Thestate government has also invested in eight permanent supportive housing facilities with onsite support to ensure that people who require more support to maintain housing receive it. Sites are already operational in Melbourne–with four more in planning and construction stages.

Supportivehousing facilities provide intensive response for rough sleepers, and the new facilities willhelpmore than 300 people with permanent housing and round-the-clocksupport that meets theirneeds.

Police cars pulled up on MacAlister Street wherethe man wasarrested just before1pm.

Wellington ToyLibrary reopens

Erika Allen

THE WellingtonToy Library reopened over the weekend after atwo-month closure, now situated in its new location above the Sale Cinema.

Before vacating its former premises at theDerek Amos Community Hub, Wellington Toy Library PresidentAngela Reynolds saidmembers hada final borrowing spree when they wereencouraged to take as manytoys as they could fit in their car boots. Two months later, members can start borrowing again

On the opening weekend, 40 member families visited,blowingthe expectations of 20 away. Over 100 toys have been borrowed since then and 250 have beenreturned

The Toy Libraryw as one of the last communityorganisations to vacate the DerekAmos Community Hub on RaymondStreetafter the Education Department sold the buildingtothe state government. It shared the former school building withorganisations likeBug Blitzand Sale Food Support Network.

Ms Reynolds said they had been looking for anew location since October 2023 and that if they hadn’t foundthe openspaceabovethe Sale Cinema,they would have been “out on thestreet”.

Fortunately, as one of the oldestnot-for-profit Toy Libraries operating in Victoria, the Wellington Toy Library will continue supporting families as it has done since 1980.

Aspokesperson from Toy Libraries Australia (TLA)told the Gippsland Times that the Wellington Toy Library should be commended for the service they provide.

“They have shown real resilienceinthe face of adversitytoensure that children of Sale and surroundingareas haveaccess to the toys and resources they need to be able to take play home. The volunteers of the toy library are an incredible asset to the community,welook forward to watching the growthofthe toy library,” the spokesperson said.

During the relocation, Ms Reynolds said they foundclippings of oldGippsland Times articles dating back to the Toy Library’s opening, allowing the committeetoreflect on its impact and journey. Ms Reynolds said that while parts of the Toy Library’slegacyhavestayed thesame, they have evolved with the times. Fostering “connection, sustainability, and learning” is at the heart of the Wellington Toy Library.

“Through out the years the committee has had that focus on learning and development of children and the importance of play. But also, in more recent times, that focus has shifted to more

towardssustainability and reducing waste,” Ms Reynolds said.

Sheemphasisedthat sustainability is fundamental to members. TLA said that it takes 36 days for children to become bored of toys, and over half of toysboughtinVictoriaend up in landfillwithin ayear.

“We try to purchase highquality, robust toys that are gonna last the distancewithour membership,” Ms Reynolds said.

Testament to this is an original Mobilo toy, a classic construction block toy with colourful geometric shapes that can be joined together to create different objects. Ms Reynolds said aphotograph of thistoy was featuredinaGippslandTimesarticle from 1980.

“It is still in our collection and still being borrowed by families,” she said.

Today, anew Mobilo toy costs about $150 to buy. But members of the Toy Library could borrow the Mobilo Toy for $2.88 for two weeks. The most popularmembership at the Toy Library is the volunteer membership,which is $75per year, equating to $1.44 aweek. Memberscan borrow four items at atimewith this membership for aperiod of two weeks. As part of this membership, people are required to volunteer two hours of the year.

Ms Reynolds said members who visit regularly will borrow between $5000 and$7000 worth of toys over the lifetimes of their membership.

TLA said typical memberships costs less than $2 a week, makingthem the “ideal solution” for families looking to support their children’s developmental needs through play.

“Toy library membershipgivesthe family access to hundredsoftoys, puzzles,games and resources, and aplace to connect with other parents and carers in afun,welcoming environment,” the spokesperson said.

The conceptoflibraries as being aservice to borrow morethanjust books has been topical recently due to the cost-of-living crisis.Though Toy Libraries like Wellington Shire’s haveexisted fordecades, ‘libraries of things’ where people can borrow clothing, kitchen equipment, and tools are becoming an increasinglycommon way to save money. Victoria has such ‘libraries of things’ like the Carlton Kitchen Library and Brunswick Tool Library.

EvenatToy Libraries, borrowing morethan just regulartoys is possible. Another expense is birthday parties, which can also create waste. The Wellington Toy Library has ‘party kits’ that include reusable plastic plates, bowls, andeven decorative bunting. Costumes can also be borrowed.

TLA is the peak body for over 280 not-for-profit

toy libraries across Australia. Nationally, these libraries have acombined catalogue of nearly $30 million worth of toys, including high-value items that would otherwise be too expensive or impractical for families to own. The most expensive items in the Wellington Toy Library are between $300 to $400.They’re also trendyand include Step2 Rollercoasters and sensory tiles.

Wellington ToyLibrary Vice PresidentSally Habersberger pointed out arack of snow gear in the Wellington Toy Library displaying puffer jackets, snowpants, and warm hats available to borrow. She said that for families wanting to take atrip to the snow, buying and even hiring essential warm clothing is both expensive and impractical for the

family who don’t take regular snow trips. Many toys are donated,and someare sourced second-hand online, which feeds into the Toy Library’ssustainable ethos. However, grant funding is appreciated,MsReynolds said, andthe money is used to buy from local retailers.

“Recently receiveda$5000 Community Assistance Grant from the Wellington Shire Council, and we’ve been able to use that to purchase toys that really focus on the learning and development of children, particularly sensory stem, fine and gross motor skills items,” she said.

“(Members are)going to see not only their old fondfavourites,they’re goingtosee that $5000 worth of new toys on the shelf.”

decades later andfamiliesare

Abigail Williams, 9, browses the shelves.

Four

still borrowing the ToyLibrary’s original Mobilo toy.

SamHabersberger,2,plays with one of the new toys availabletoborrow.

The colourful baby section boasts various wheeledtoysincluding trucks, trams, diggers, and afireengine.

The new toylibrary is above SaleCinema. Photos: Erika Allen

to families to continue lega cy

Asked what people can expect to see at the new location, Ms Reynolds said members can expect to feel asense of familiarity but in amore modern space. The entrance to the Toy Library is on the west side of the Sale Cinema, which faces the Sale Catholic College grounds. After taking aflight of stairs, members find themselves in thefoyer/ reception. On the left, behindachild-safefence, aseating area, and acolourful patchwork carpet where kids can sit and play gives way to the Toy Library.

Given the new location’s centrality, Ms Reynolds hop es non -me mber sw ill be entic ed to joi n. Currently, there are between 80 to 100 members.

“Since COVID, membershipshavebeen on the

increase in the Toy Library, and we’re looking forward to the new location being more accessible for families,” she said.

Ms Habersberger said anticipation for the opening had been building in the two months the Toy Library was closed. Gleaning the anticipation via text message or in conversationwith members,she emphasised that people were enthusiastic about theToy Library’s triumphant return.

Rachael Stevens and herdaughter Abigail Williamsare some of the Library’s longest-serving and most loyal members. Abigail, who is nineyears-old, has been coming to the Wellington Toy Libraryfor years,and Ms Stevens is the Secretary.

Ms Stevens said it’s encouraging to see that even as kids like her daughter grow up, they don’t grow

outofplaying with toys. She said they’re equally excited and enthralled as the younger ones.

Ms Stevens said Toy Libraries can be hardpressed for storage space, and volunteers have to pull out box after box to find the toys they’re looking for. The new location doesn’t have this problem.

Rows of neatly organised and labelledshelves house the Toy Library’s thousands of toys.

As if in atoy store, children can peruse the shelves, pick up toys, take trucks for atest drive,

and choose their favourites to play with.

The Wellington Toy Library is open on Fridays between 3.30-5pm and Saturdays between 10am12pm. It is located at Level 1, 52 Cunningham St, Sale.

To learn more about joining the Wellington Toy Library, visit the website: wellingtonvic.setls.com. au. Alternatively, visit the SaleWellingtonToy Library 3850 Facebook Page.

Angela Reynolds showsSam Habersberger atoy microscope.

Photos:Erika Allen

Wellington ToyLibrary President Angela Reynolds (left)with Abigail Williams, Secretary Rachael Stevens,VicePresident SallyHabersberger andLily Habersberger

Habersberger,5,tests

Youngstertotakeoncharitable hike

Stefan Bradley

THE RotaryClubofSale recently welcomed Tanner McMillan to sharehis storyabout contracting Lyme disease as ayoung 11-year-old. Tanner, now 16-years-old, is in recovery, but that's not stopping him from acharitableEpic Hike for Lyme, by walking 90 miles at the Ninety-Mile Beach this November.

Lyme disease is abacterial infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It is usually contracted via atickorinsect bite. One tick may transmit pathogens and can also result in releaspse of latent viruses, leaving patients with complex, multi-system illnessesthat are poorly understood.

Sixteen-year-old Tanner McMillian wants to ensure that no other child in Australia has to endure what he did. Having achieved aremarkable recovery, he is now on amission to make a difference by raising awareness for Lyme disease and giving back to the community that supporting during his darkest days. To do this, Tanner and his best mate Ed Blandford are undertaking the mammoth challenge of walking the length of the Ninety-Mile Beach,from McLoughlin's Beach to LakesEntrance. He andEdwillwalk past Woodside Surf Life Saving Club and the Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club.

"I want to support as many Lyme Warriors as Ican to reduce suffering,support dying Lyme Diseasepatients,changeAustralia's healthcare system and its attitude toward Lyme sufferers," Tanner said.

Tanner's journey began at the tender age of 11 when atickbiteinrural Victoria unleashed the devastating effects of Lyme disease on his young body. Thisvibrant and sporty countrykid was quickly reduced to ashell of his former self, at times unable to even stand up on his own. Tanner's desperate parents sought answers from countless doctors, but their pleas for tick-bornediseasetesting fellondeaf ears. Despite daily seizuresand ahost of debilitating symptoms, Tanner was also dismissed by apsychologistwho claimed it was all in his head. It was aheart-wrenching experience for Tanner, as allthosewho were supposed to care turned their backs on him.

Hope finallyemerged whenthe McMillans reachedout to the Lyme Disease Association of Australia. Throughtheir support, the family connectedwithone of thecountry's few 'Lymeliterate' doctors. Tanner's diagnosis turned out to be Lyme disease. Years of expensive and arduous treatments followed, but Tanner's determination paid off. He can now attend school full-time and enjoy alife that closely resembles normalcy. If you'd like to sponsor or otherwise support the boys on their EpicHike forLyme, contact: lymedisease.org.au

Enroll to vote at next elections

ELIGIBLEresidents andratepayers are urged to check they are enrolled to vote for the upcoming local councilelections by 4pm Wednesday, August 7.

ElectoralCommissioner, SvenBluemmel, has issued acall aheadofthe enrolment deadline: "If you’re 18 or over and you live in or pay rates to aVictorian council, enrol and have your say on the future of your local council."

Australiancitizenswho have recently turned 18 or changed address can enrol or update their details online at vec.vic.gov. au/enrolment

Anyone on the state electoral roll is automatically enrolled for their current address for these elections. There are also additional council enrolment categories for non-residentowners, occupiers, company nominees and non-Australian citizens who pay rates.

The rulesfor council enrolment have changed. Propertyownerswho don’tlive in the council area but may be eligible to vote because they pay rates should contact their local council for further information.

The 2024 Victorian local council elections will be the state’s largest single election program, with apredicted 4.7 million voters participating in 465 individual elections across 78 councils.

Further information on enrolment is available by calling 131 832 or at vec.vic. gov.au, where voters canalsosignuptothe free VoterAlert service to receive important election reminders by SMS and email.

VicGrid planning for the long-term

VICGRID is asking communities, landholders,

Traditional Owners and the energy industry to getinvolvedand havetheir say on the development of the long-term strategic plan for Victoria’s Renewable Energy Zones and major transmission infrastructure.

Victoriaischanging the way energyinfrastructure is planned,developing the Victorian Transmission Plan and consulting with communities from the beginningofthe processtorealise localbenefits, minimise impacts and deliver affordable and reliable power to Victorianhomes and businesses.

VicGrid, the government agency responsible for planning and developing the state’s Renewable Energy Zones, on Tuesday released adraft of the Victorian Transmission Plan Guidelines, which set out how VicGrid will prepare the plan over the next 12 months.

Theguidelines explain how VicGrid will determine how much renewable energy is needed to be generated where and by when, what transmission projects are required and how we will partner with communities and industry to make these decisions.

It also includes an initial study area, showing which parts of Victoria we will investigate further as we work with communities to find the best places to host future wind and solar generation.

This is an earlystepwhichhas beeninformed by abespoke state-wide strategic land use assessment that took into account community feedback, land use, environment and cultural heritage.

The study area will be narrowed down to smaller areas for investigation and eventually, proposed Renewable EnergyZones through further engagement and analysis.

While VicGrid is starting their investigations broad, ultimately only aportion of the study area will be needed to host new energy infrastructure.

VicGrid is now seeking feedback from the community and industry on the guidelines and the study area, and chief executive Alistair Parker said community input would play acrucial role at this stage and throughout the process of developing the Victorian Transmission Plan.

“Weare changing the way energy infrastructure is delivered in Victoria and early and meaningful

engagement is at the heart of our approach,” Mr Parker said.

“We need the input of regionalcommunities, farmers, landholders and First Peoples so we can get this right for all Victorians, reduce impacts and deliver real benefits.”

Mr Parkersaidthe energyindustry alsohad a role to play in informing the Victorian Transmission Plan and he encouraged businesses to engage with VicGrid to share their knowledge and expertise.

The Victorian Transmission PlanGuidelines can be found on Engage Victoria,where peoplecan provide feedback on the approach and the study area as well as details of the community information sessions VicGrid is running across the state.

Consultation on the guidelines is open until August 25, while consultation on the study areas is open until September 30.

Adraft Victorian Transmission Plan will be published early in 2025 with afurther round of consultation before publication of the finalplan by July 2025.

Forum to help reduce the road risk

THE Victorian Transport Association's VTA Regional Forum willbeheld in Sale tomorrow (Wednesday, July 31) from 7.30am to 11am at Sale Greyhound Racing Club. The theme of the forum is Safety On Our Roads: Reducing The Risk Around Heavy Vehicles VTA Chief Executive,Peter Anderson, said the regional forums offered VTA members, freight and logistics operators, and the general motoring community the opportunity to advance important

conversations on how 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 industry group the VTA represents the whole of Victoria, not just Melbourne. These

Tanner and hisfather Ryan discuss the Epic Hikefor Lyme with the SaleRotaryClub.

Photos:Contributed

From left:Kerry McMillan, Community and Projects at Sale Rotary Club;TannerMcMillan and his father Ryan; and PresidentofSaleRotary Club, Sandra Houghton -with a$3000 donation from theclub to theLyme Diseasse Association of Australia.

100candles for Betty Milne

ErikaAllen

HOLDING abouquet and ajumbo ‘Happy Birthday’ card from thoughtful Ashleigh House staff, Betty Milnesoaked up the attention a100th birthday deserves.

“Wait until tomorrow, and you’ll all ignore me,” she said in jest.

But thisreporter thinks ignoringBetty Milne would be tricky. Her cheeky smile, quick wit, and warm personality seem to have people in raptures

“Betty is abeautiful lady who always thinks of othersbefore herself,” Ashleigh HouseLifestyle team member, Ann Cunningham said.

“Her birthday wish was wishes for everyone else,” Liza Pendleburyfrom the Ashleigh House Lifestyle team said.

Ms Cunningham added that Betty, who moved into Sale’s Ashleigh House in January, is thankful for the staff and other residents, has agreat sense of humour, can take ajoke, and always puts a positive spin on things.

Betty was born on July 19, 1924. She has lived through the Great Depression, aWorld War, a pandemic, and numerous other culture-bending events. Although she said life was plainer decades ago andthat timesweretough,Betty does seemto putapositive spin on things.

“I can remember the Great Depression,” she said

“I was remembering the otherday howharditwas for families to live at that time. And then of course came the war with all our soldiers going away and some of them coming back and some of them not.”

Betty describedthe changes she has encountered as aseries of circumstances that have allowed life to blossom.

“It’s been wonderful to see how life itself changes continually with each event,” she said.

“In my first few years -14years -Ilived in Springvale. Springvaleinthe horse and jinker days. Everywhere you went, we went in our horse and jinker,” she said.

From horse-drawn to horsepower, Betty watched as cars started rolling down streets among jinkers. Seeing them passing in the street incited excitement as they drew attention. Like agame of ‘Spotto’, Betty recalled that people would exclaim, ‘Oh look, that’s acar!’ Not because it was yellow but because cars were ararity and were only spotted occasionally.

Betty said her family could never get acar. But when she married, they got one. By this time, Betty said it was common for everyone to have acar

“My husband said, ‘If you learn how to drive, we’ll buy acar’.”

In Springvale, she said one train ran every hour

and she remembers her mother running to catch it.

“Of course, Ileft half my stuff at home, so she had to run back home again and then catch the train,” Betty said. “It was such adifferent Springvale to what it is now:horseand jinkers, hardly any carsgoing down the street. There were few shops, but everybody knew everybody. You didn’t pass anybody in the street that you didn’t knowinthose days,” she said Asked if she had been back to Springvale, Betty replied: “I don’t want to look at the new Springvale; no, Iwant to remember my happy times. Plus, the factI don’t need to,really; I’ve gotanew lifehere.”

Betty said she never liked school –hated it in fact.So, aged 14 and one-day-oldBetty left with no regrets.

“I smashed my ruler and walked out, andthat was it,” she said. Not one to be idle, Betty said she started her first job in the Bentleigh Woolen Mill only afew days later.

“I walked around to the factory in the next couple of days and said, ‘You got ajob’, and they said, ‘You start Monday.’

“That’s how easy it was to getajob in those days, (you’d) just knock on the back door and say, ‘got a job?’ (it’s) nothing like today,” she said.

Betty’s eldest daughter, Barbara Glover,admires her mother for leaving school at 14. Of the great things Betty hasdone, getting ajob to support her family was noteworthy.

“She’s always been astrong woman, and it’s always been about family for her, especially her children,” Barbara said.

BarbarasaidBetty is aforce to be reckonedwith andtolda story to back it up.

In their “little” hometown of Bu xto nn ear Marysville, where Betty raised her family, aruckus on their frontlawnsaw herstorming outsideto chase “hoodlums”who’dperhaps been having a night on the town and had too muchtodrink away with abroom.

“Mum went out and said, ‘You guys get out of here’ with abig broom in her hand, she said, ‘Get away from my kids’,” Barbara said. “I still remember that. Iremember lying in bed thinking, ‘They might hurt my mother’. But they ran, didn’t know what they’d struck.”

In Buxton, Betty ran acafécalled the Colony. Barbara said everything was scratch-made. The meat pies and Chicken Marylands -chicken in a box -were popular.

“Nowthey call it KFC, but my mumswas always nicer,” Barbara said.

Betty said she picked up cooking skills from her father. He was aship cook during World War 2. She also worked in apastryshop in Toorak.

Betty said the café in Buxton was apopular stop for travellers.

“They’d come in, pick up dinner, and we usually made dinners like chicken and chips and put them in acarton, and people on their way to the snow would stop in, buy them and eat them on the way to the snow.

“I used to make my meat pies there. Yes, Iloved those meat pies; they were very famous.”

She said travellers going toward Eildon would have two options: ashorter route that avoided Buxton or the long way through Betty’s town.

“They always chose the longer one so they could pick up some pies and go through.”

Betty’s journey has broughther to Sale, where she celebrated her 100th birthday with her family and her adopted family at Ashleigh House. Astonished by the staff’s attentiveness since moving in, Betty saideven asking for acup of coffee at midnight isn’t too much to ask for.

Asked if she would divulge her secrets to along and happy life, Betty said she believed God is “in control” and that “it’s because of him that I’ve got what Ihave… that’s the secret, trusting him because he provides”. But not before Dan Smith said,“If she told you, it wouldn’t be asecret”. Betty laughed as she said, “See the jokes we get all the time?”

Jests shared in good humour were often thrown around last Friday between family members.

“You’ve got to have family,” Betty said.

“It’s your history; it’s part of you,and it’s nice that we can call on different ones if you need anything.”

Though Betty wouldhaveloved aletter from Queen Elizabeth, who she connects with through her English mother, her middle name Elizabeth, and was brought up thinking about royalty, she settled for aletter from His Majesty the King. Sheraised the card above her head to around of applause at Ashleigh House last Friday before digging into asponge cake with passionfruit icing and, without having to ask, acup of coffee.

Wearing theroyal colour purple,Betty Milne thanked her Ashleigh House family for thetendersurprisebirthday celebrations.

Centenarian Betty Milne (middle) with her family.NeilChandler (right) with Betty’s eldest daughter BarbaraGlover,youngest daughter KathySmith, and Dan Smith.

Betty Milneshows off her 100thbirthdayletterfromKing Charles. Photos: ErikaAllen

Exceptional service to health

CENTRAL Gippsland Health (CGH) has farewelled four of its board members who have contributed a combined 26 years to supporting the work of the health service.

Jim Vivian and Abbas Khambati bothserved the maximum term of nine years on the board with Glenys Butler serving six years and Helen McConachy two years.

Board Chair, Arthur Skipitaris, paid tribute to the four retiring members who he said assisted in providing robust governance and strategic oversight to ensure CGH remained aligned with its mission and vision.

 ST Vincent de Paul monthly garage sale will be held this Saturday (August 3) in the Jack Kelly store (28 Laura Street, Maffra), from 9am until 10.30am. Depending on the weather conditions.

 ROTARY Club of Maffra Community Market will be held on Sunday, August 4at the Island Reserve, McMahon Drive, Maffra (at the back of Woolworths car park), from 9am until 12.30pm. Don’t forget to look for the fundraising barbecue. All welcome.

 MAFFRA Cancer Council Volunteer unit is holding their next meeting on Monday, August 5atthe Maffra Community Sports Club (Johnson Street, Maffra) beginning at 2pm. New members are most welcome to join. Call Fay on 0417 055 612 for more information.

 MAFFRA Bowls Club wishes to advise their monthly soup and sandwich lunch will be held tomorrow (Wednesday, July 31). The cost is $8 for lunch only, and an extra $5 for those wishing to play indoor bowls. The soup and sandwi ch lunch star ts 11.30am. Bookings are essential. For those playing indoor bowls only, names should be phoned through on the day by 12.30pm for a 1pm start. Phone Joy on 0438 456 875 or the club on 5147 1974. Note this lunch is open to anyone, it is not necessary to be abowler to enjoy the soup and sandwich day.

 AUGUST is going to be abusy month at Maffra Neighbourhood House.

AMosaic Garden Paver workshop will be held on Wednesday, August 7from 1pm. Create an art piece for your garden. All materials supplied in the cost of $45. Improve your skills on your Circut device, this intermediate course is designed for those with basic knowledge on Wednesday, August 7and 14 at 7pm until 9pm. Full cost for this course is $50. To book aplace, call 0422 335 155. ABuilding aWicking gardenworkshop will be held on Friday, August 9from 10.30am until 12.30pm. This session will be run by Bunnings.Tobepart of this new project, give Leahnacall on 0422 335 155.

Mr Vivian served as Vice Chair from December 2018until appointed Chair in December 2021, leading the board until December 2023.

Serving on various sub-committees, he was involved in major CGH initiatives including development of anew Strategic Plan and the 10-Year Health Plan.

Mr Vivian headed the board during the COVID-19 pandemic, was instrumental in the establishment of the Tri-Board Memorandum of Understanding between the CGHS, Heyfield and StrettonPark Boards, and oversaw major capital works including the expansion of the Oncology Unit, the Medical Ward redevelopment, the significant refurbishment of Wilson Lodge, the installation of solar panelsand the development of the staff accommodation units.

Mr Khambati also served on numeroussubcommitteesand contributed to many initiatives including the appointment of the newc hief executive.

Ms Butler’s sub-committee roles included the

Community Liaison Committee and Quality and Safety Committee, whileMsMcConachy served on the People and Remuneration Committee.

The CGH Board has welcomed three new directors -Trevor Goldstone, AdamKoster and Luis Prado.

Apart-time independent consultant and advisor since April 2023, Mr Goldstone has heldnumerous senior and executive level roles with Australia Education Management Group,Universityof New England, James Cook University, Townsville Enterpriseand others. He holds agraduate diploma in Management, and aBachelor of Applied Science (Recreation Planning and Management).

Mr Koster, who is also aBoard Director with the Yarram and District Health Service, works with Alex ScottLand in ageneral counsel role, working as bothin-house lawyer and sales executive within the company’s transactions and advisory team. He holdsa Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Arts,

Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, Master of Laws from Monash University, and aCertificate IV in Property Services (Real Estate).

Mr Prado is the Chief Medical Officer and Executive DirectorofAcademic and Medical Services at St John of God Healthcare. Since early 2020, he has been the Epworth COVID Pandemic Commander and led the organisational response across the largest private hospitalgroup in the state. Mr Prado has led major change programs, deliveringtransformation stoorganisational culture, particularly aroundtransparentreporting of performanceand investigation of incidents, and deliveredasuite of programs to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Mr Skipitaris thanked the four retiring directors and welcomed the new ones.

“Our board directors make ahugecommitment in providing guidance and support to our management team, and we thank them for their service,” he said.

Sion Convent redevelopment project

THE Our Lady of Sion Convent building in Sale is amuch-loved local landmarkwithhistorical and educational significance for Catholics, the Catholic educationcommunity, and the broader community in Sale.

In this third update, we want to bring members of St Mary’s Parish, St Thomas’ Primary School, and other membersofthe Sale community, up to date about the significant progress that has occurred since August 2023 in the redevelopment of the former Our LadyofSion Convent site intoan exciting,state-of-the-art education facility,serving the mission of the Diocese of Sale.

Asignificant challenge in the redevelopment planning process is to ensure that the comprehensive renovation of this iconic, 125-year-old building will be done in ways that will (a) meet the needs of students and staff in acontemporary educational context, and (b) comply with the more rigorous 21stCentury building codes, while still retaining the building’s original beauty, grandeurand character. This process requires meticulous planning and sensitive consultation withnumerous stakeholders. The architects and consultants are progressing in the designand preparation works. The architectural team continues to meet with heritage advisers, specialist engineers and the St Thomas’ Primary School community.

Therehas also been ongoing consultation with the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion to identify how their extensivecontribution to Catholic education on this site can be acknowledged and celebrated, to ensure their legacy endures among future generations. We are happy to announce that, earlier this year, the Victorian Minister for Planning, through the DepartmentofTransport and Planning (DTP), grantedaplanning permit for the proposed works. We can also confirm that we were successful in obtainingaCommonwealth capital grantfrom the federalgovernment for the construction of additional new student learning spacesonthe site. These proposed education facilities are an essential element of the overall St Thomas’ Primary School masterplanand are separate to the redevelopment work on the former Sion Convent building.

While the planning processcontinues, it is anticipated that work will soon start to bring the property back to aclean site, as well as beginning some preservation of the former Sion Convent. The community may see the demolition of some non-heritage and ad-hoc structuresthat have been identified as being unsuitable as contemporary learning spaces.These buildingsare not includedin the proposed development masterplan. There will also be some associated groundwork and temporary building maintenance essentialtopreserving

the former Sion Convent building while it is in caretaker mode.

While we are excited about the considerable progressthat has been made in the past ten months, agreat deal of work is still to be done before adefinitive announcement can be made to key stakeholders about the approval of the project Please keep this project, the re-development team, and the St Thomas’ Catholic Primary School community, in your prayers.

Background and timeline:

 November 2020: The site became vacant following the formal relocation of the Catholic College Sale Junior campus. Many expressed their dreams and hopes for the future use of this treasured local landmark.

 August 2021: The Bishop of Sale, through his Diocesan Committee chaired by the former Member for Gippsland South and parishioner of St Mary’s Cathedral, Mr Peter Ryan, began exploring possible uses of the convent building. The Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Ltd (DOSCEL) engaged specialist consultants to explore the possible relocation of St Thomas’ Catholic Primary School, Sale to the Sion Campus site.

 November 2021: Acommunity survey was

undertaken to gather feedback on relocating St Thomas’ Catholic Primary School to the Sion Campus site.

 October 2022: It was announced that through the work of DOSCEL andthe Diocesan Committee, consideration would focus on the development of the whole site as astate-of-theart education facility with the Convent building, which includes the Chapel being the centrepiece of the school.

 December 2022: Early conceptual designs for apreliminary proposed masterplan were developed by aproject architect for consideration and assessment.

 January -June 2023: Extensive investigations continued and arange ofconsultant specialists including engineers, surveyors and a heritage adviser were appointed.

 June 2022: Preliminary proposed masterplan moved to detailed design phase. Architects began engagement with Town Planning.

 February 2024: Planning permit granted by the Minister for Planning through the Department of Transport and Planning

 February 2024: Commonwealth Government capital grant confirmed.

New Central Gippsland Health Board Director, Luis Prado. Photos:Contributed

Jim Vivian served on the CGHboard for nine years and Glenys Butler served for six

Trevor Goldstone is one of three new Central Gippsland Health BoardDirectors.

Celebra tions for Fiest as Pa tria s

Stefan Bradley

AHEAD of Fiestas Patrias,P eru’s national holiday celebrated on July 28 and 29, alocal Sale restaurant commemorated the occasionwitha high-profile guest.

Ambassador of Peru to Australia, Vitaliano GallardoonThursdaymadethe trip from Canberra down to Sale’s Raymond Sreet to visit PeruvianAustralian, Judith Treasure who is the proprietor of the El-Sombrero restaurant.

The establishment opened in the mid-1990s, and serves Mexican food with alocal and Peruvian twist, including tacos, enchiladas, fried beans and chilli chicken. The visit was aperfect opportunity for Mr Gallardo to discuss Peruvian culture in Australia and enjoy adelicious dinner with Mrs Treasure’s customers.

“It’sanimportant week for Peruvians because we celebrate our national day, and Iamhere to pay homage to Judith Treasure, and to El-Sombrero as the longest running restaurant on Peruvian and Latin Americanfood in Australia,” Mr Gallardo said.

“Shehas brought herculture,her way to cook and her way to present the dishes for along time -more than30years -becauseshe has decided to establish herself here.

“Mrs Treasure should be looked at as apioneer of Peruvian cuisine, and for representing an area linked with the heartland of Victoria.”

Mrs Treasure said she’sproudofbeing Peruvian and Australian. Besides herself,her son and her sister, she doesn’t believe there to be other Peruvians in the local area,with the majority most likely in Melbourne.

Asked how she would celebrate Fiestas Patrias,

Mrs Treasure said she would drink apisco sour -an alcoholic cocktail of Peruvian origin that is very traditional in Peru. It’s typically made up of pisco (a type of brandy), lime juice, simple syrup, ice, egg white, and Angostura bitters.

“It has been the traditional drink of my country for many generations,” she said.

“I’m proud to have broughtmyculture here

Independence is something we have in our hearts.”

Fiestas Patrias commemorates Peru’s independence from the Spanish Empire in the 1800s.

On Friday, Mr Gallardo left Sale to continue travelling around the country for Peruvian events.

“We are celebrating extensively in Australia in different cities,” he said.

The latest Gippsland Farmer is nowavailable

THE August edition of Gippsland Farmer is now available online for general readers.

Key articles in the August edition include:

 Sweet success: Tambo Valley Honey in Bruthen;

 VFF says governmentrate cap doesn't help farmers;

 Leongatha Livestock Exchange almost complete;

 CarbonNet about to present its caseto government;

 Sand quarry for Lang Lang;

 Deer harvest in Victoria up 11 per cent, with Gippsland to the fore;

 The biggest challenge for farmers

is economic conditions, not climate change: poll;

 Federation Uni survey probes attitudes towards commercial plantations in Gippsland;

 Leading forestry expert urges traditional indigenous knowledge and forest science to fight bushfires;

 Keeping cows warm in winter;

 Drouin teenager Holly Anderson top cattle breeder;

 Korumburra garlic festival next year, and;

 South Gippsland at forefront of planting durable eucalypts. Visit: gippslandfarmer.com.au

El-Sombreroproprietor,Judith Treasureand Ambassadorof Peru to Australia, VitalianoGallardo Photos: Stefan Bradley

Judith Treasureadds bitters to apisco sour cocktail, atraditional Peruviandrink.

The El-Sombrerorestaurant on RaymondStreet,Sale.

Ambassador of Peru to Australia, Vitaliano Gallardo hasbeen travelling aroundthe country for Fiestas Patriasevents.

Sale Showset to strike gold

THE theme for this year’s Sale Show is 'Gippsland’s Goldfields', the Sale and District Agricultural Society has announced.

Apavilion of goldfields-related displays is being co-ordinated by the Prospectors and Miners Association,EastGippsland Branch, and will display material including photographs of the search for the alleged fabulously rich Lasseter’s gold reef in central Australia.

Harold Lasseter, who claimed to have discovered the reef, lived for some time at Foster.

After several unsuccessful expeditions to locate the reef by different parties, Lasseter’s skeleton was subsequently located in acave.

The show will include exhibits from of the “thunderegg” mine near Briagolong, the McMillan Rockhounds lapidary display, photos of Glen Wills (Gippsland) goldmining, the Bairnsdale School of Mines mineral and photograph collection, Hobo gold smelting, and children’s hands-on metal detecting.

There also will be vintage metal detectors dating from the 1970s, Gippsland goldfields’ post offices memorabilia compiled by historian Laurie Smyth, mineral exploring equipmentbyAussie Disposals, and history books on Gippsland’sgoldfields for sale. Tickets to ride the Walhalla Goldfields vintage railway will be given away two lucky families.

The Miners Association branch president, John Munn said that the displaywould comprehensively encapsulate tangible reminders of Gippsland’s rich gold mining history.

He said Sale played an important and active role for more than adecade, with much gold passing

through en-route to buyers. The association's members held regular mining expeditions, some with considerable success.

The Agricultural Society President, Laurie Jeremiah said that so relevant was goldmining to Sale that the Sale Show at the height of Gippsland’s gold rush included gold and precious metal competitions.

Cowwarr’s James Rice won the auriferousquartz category and Tinamba’s John Richards the alluvial.

Sale historian, Peter Synan, who has written a short history encapsulating Sale’s role in early-days gold mining (to be published in the schedule) said Sale’s population quadrupled at height of the gold rush, many successful miners depositing nuggets at the Bank of Victoria on York Street.

Mr Synan said the “rush” gave impetus to establishing abranch of Cobb and Co. coach line stables in Sale, providing armed escorts carrying ingots from Sale at first to Port Albert and later direct to Melbourne. He added that Sale possessed arelic of the era

in theformer government powder magazine, built fortress-like in 1864 in the Netherlands, restored some 25 years ago by Sale Historical Society, its original use being housing black powder for mine blasting. This year's Sale Show runs from November1 to 3.

Family comes first after local TattsLotto win

The retirees looked forward to treating their family to an interstate getaway to the sunshine state.

Their marked 12-game entry was purchased at Sale Centre Lotto, Shop 40, Gippsland Centre.

The winning wife checked her ticket in the early hours of Sunday morning and was left completely dumbfounded by the revelation they were newlymade millionaires.

“HOW did we get so lucky?” agenerousSalecouple, with hearts as rich as theirnewfound fortune, have vowed to devote amillion-dollar TattsLotto win entirely to their children and grandchildren. The Gippsland locals held one of the five national Division 1winningentriesinTattsLotto draw 4487, drawn on Saturday, July 20. They take home atotal Division 1prize of $1,012,896.39. So far in 2024, there have been nine Division 1winning entries in the Gippsland regionthat have collectively taken home more than $9.32 million in prize money.

“Oh my god!What agreat surprise!” she cheered.

“That’s unreal. My god!

“I checked the ticket on Sunday morning, and I was left gobsmacked. I’ve just been thinking this entire time, ‘How did we get so lucky?’.

“Remarkably, I’ve been playingthe samenumbers for 40 to 45 years and Idon’t know why Ichose them over four decades ago, but I’m glad Ipersisted. I’ve never missed aweek!

“It’s just something we would never expect. We never anticipated to be one of the lucky win ners .W e’ re goi ng to tak eo ur time and process the win. We haven’ tt old our family yet but will soon.

“Our boys have families of their own and we would

love to surprise them with abig family holiday to Queensland to visit the theme parks!

“We would love to help them as well. Family always comes first!"

The Sale Centre Lotto team said they were "stoked" to have helped change the lives of one of their locals and wished them all the best with their future endeavours.

The winning numbers in TattsLotto draw 4487 on July 20,2024were 31, 30, 23, 29, 17 and 25, and the supplementary numbers were 6and 14. Across Australia, there were five Division1 winning entries in TattsLotto draw 4487 -three in Victoria,and one each in New South Wales and Queensland

and inspiration for this group. The exhibit ion runs from Au gust 3t o September 8, with the official launch on Sunday,

Lucky strike -gold! Photos: Contributed Prospectors andMiners AssociationEastGippsland Branch panning for minerals.

Sale CentreLotto team members.

Photo: Contributed

NewMarvel flick asmash hit

GET ready for arollercoaster ride of action, humour, and unexpected twists as Deadpool (Ry an Reyno lds )a nd Wol veri ne (Hugh Jackman) embark on an epic adventure that willleave alasting impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and its beloved character s. Deadpo ol &W olverine was directed by Shawn Levy and is now showing at Sale Cinema.

Stefan Bradley and Tom Parry went to check it out!

Tom Parry: Thisfilmwasn'tquite as good as Ihoped,but certainlybetter thanexpected,and above the standard set by Marvel Studios' recent output.I foundmyselfinvested in the struggles of bothcharacters -yes, even Wade Wilson, a character whose personality is grating at the best of times, had aconflict and motivationsthat felt real and relatable.

Stefan Bradley: I’ve loved the recent Deadpool movies andhave only seen ahandful of the X-Men entries, and we’re both big fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). There’s so muchhype for this movie, and while Idon’t think it ranks among the best comic-book or Marvel films, it is ahilarious and exhilarating experience from start-to-finishand delivers on everything you want and expect from it. Ithink Reynolds,Jackman and director Levy’s enthusiasm in particular for this project shinesthrough. Theway the titlecharacters riff off each other is areal delight.

TP: Deadpool& Wolverine pitches itself to Marvel fans and for the most part delivers what they wantthough I'mnot sure it will fully reinvigorateinterest in the MCU. Most of the actionsequences were

enjoyable, and there were some amusinggags, but they lean too heavily on the fourth-wall jokes that have beendone better in other projects.It's definitely acinema experience, especially for diehard Marvel fans at my screening -it'sreminiscent of Spider-Man: No Way Home in theway it puts smiles on faces.

SB: There’s both expected and unexpected cameos in this and it was heaps of fun. At amere two hours, Iappreciate the filmmakers could only focus on so much, whichiswhy theplot is fairly simple andmost of the side characters from the other Deadpool moviesdon’t have much screentime.And this extends to the villainousCassandra Nova. The character and their motivations are well-written, and atop-notch performancebyEmma Corrin, but Iwould have liked to have seen more of them incorporated into the plot. Iguess Wolverine and Deadpool themselves act as antagonists to each other.

TP: Iagree with you about the antagonist-Nova was menacing and had aspine-tingling wickedness that ranks among Marvel's best villains. Overall, the film's good fun and while there is aton of cameos, it'snot particularly necessarily to view every other Marvel blockbuster to understand it. Just watch either of the two previous Deadpool instalment,and any previousX-Menmovie and you’re mostly up-to-speed.

Deadpool &Wolverine is rated MA15+ for strong crude sexualhumour,bloody violence and coarse language.

Image: Disney/MarvelStudios

Sale Film Society hosts second July screening

SALEFilmSociety is meeting for the secondtime in amonth to host another screening at The Wedge.

The picture of choice on this occasion is a2004 film from Greece: Brides

“Set in 1922, the plot concernsagroup of mainly Greekwomen travelling to the New World as mail order brides,”Societypresident,DrRob Ziffersaid.

“One of the brides, Niki (Victoria Haralabidou) is alittle different in that her sister has returned from America, and now Niki is being sent to the same unsuitable suitor.

“Also on-board is Norman (Damian Lewis), an American photographer returningafter his work on the Greco-Turkish War was deemed ‘too artistic’.”

Brides counts legendary American film-maker Martin Scorsese (Taxi Driver, Goodfellas)asone of its executive producers.

It waswarmlyreceived in its home country, becoming the second-highest grossing film of 2004, after Wolfgang Petersen’s Troy Lead actress Haralabidou has since migrated to andsettled in Australia, having appeared in local productionssuch as Leah Purcell’s The Drover’s Wife and TV’s Barracuda.

Brides will be shown tomorrow (July 31), in the John Leslie Theatre from 7.30pm. Entry is freetoexisting Societymembersand $10tonon-members.

Prospective attendees are reminded to arrive before the picture commences to chat with fellow cinephiles, and grab adrink at Shirley’s Caféand Bar.

Dr Zifferisalso reminding Society members that there willbenoscreenings in August, with the next meeting scheduled to take place on September 4. More information can be foundonthe official webpage: salefilmsociety.wordpress.com

Will love conquer all? Come along and seefor yourselves! Images: Madman/Palace Films

Phone0413271 227tomake areservation at Shirley’s beforethe movie.

Olympic achievement (6) 4. Preceeding nights(4)

HOW WELL DO YOUKNOW...

18. Whirlpool (4) 21. Whitemineral used in powerlifting (4) 23 Watersport athlete(7) 27 Blood carrier (5) 28. Mother,for short (3) 29 Olympic flame vessel (5) 30 Competition category (5) 31. Seeing organs (4) 32. Excuse(4)

Olympic competitors(8) 35 Prizes awarded at the Games(6)

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TO NTH NA D ES YY BESE RR S

Wandered

(7)

ARMSTRONG BERRY CHALMERS DURACK FORD GOULD HACKETT

AL HACK ET T

HENRY HORTON JONES LANE MCKEON MCKEOWN NEALL

TRICKETT

9-LETTER WORD

1. Captain St Catleyand s other athlet will become first Austra soccerplay compete at

teph seven tes ethe salian yers to pt how Olympic es? One Two )Three D) Four

2. Australia wasdrawn in apool with USA, Germany and which other country?

A) Namibia B) Tanzania C) Zimbabwe D) Zambia

3. Vice captain Ellie Carpenter plays what position? A) Defender B) Midfielder C) Forward D) Goalkeeper

4. TheMatilda’stop-four finish, their best ever result,was at which Olympic Games?

A) Atlanta 1996 B) Athens 2004 C) Rio2016 D) Tokyo2020 THE MATILDAS

Using thenine lettersinthe grid, howmany wordsoffour lettersormorecan youlist?

18 words: Good

The centrelettermustbeincluded, and each letter mayonly be used once.Nocolloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns apostrophesorpluralwords ending in “s” E N A R E D U N

27 words: Very good 37 words: Excellent

e,dunc e,ancdur ecru, e,educ NCE,RADUEN e,nacr e,nuanc ed,ac,rcera e,ducre edarunc A C

ned,ra,canecr eed,cr d,ur,ccrude e,cur d,recu e,dac e,danc

S:WERANS D,,21C 3A, 4D

Contemporary Wurruk living

THIS modern home in Wurruk is located on a6843 square meter block.

Designed for contemporary living, this home features akitchen, dining, and family room.

The kitchen features an island bench and storage space. Comfort is ensured throughout the year with gas ducted heating and asplit system, agents say The home has five bedrooms, with the master suite including an ensuite and walk-in robe, while the remaining bedrooms all have built-in robes. Agents say asecondliving area could double as akids' retreat or rumpus room.

Modern amenities include afamily bathroom with avanity,shower,and bath, along with alaundry.The front of the home features an alfresco area with averandah. Additional features include adouble garage for parking with direct entry into the home.

Agents say 19 Cashmere Close is ideal for prospective buyers with growing families looking for ahome closetoSale.

Brie fd et ails

Proper ty: Modern home in Wurruk.

Address: 19 CashmereClose, Wurruk.

Price: $725,000.

Bed: Five. Bath: Two. Car: Two.

Contact: Tony Kiss, 0419 526 637 , Wellington Real Estate.

Blend of modern and comfy

TAgas

Agents

Perfectly positioned unit

NIT 3/5 Elgin Street is located within access to the Lake Guthridge Precinct, Health Services, and the CBD. Agents say the unit would appeal to downsizers, investors, or those looking to makeanentry into the property market. It has recently been painted throughout.

The unit features akitchen, dining, and living area, equipped with asplit system, gas heating, and aceiling fantoensure comfort throughout the year.The kitchen provides bench and cupboard space. There are two bedrooms, both recently carpeted and fitted with built-in robes. These bedrooms are serviced by acentral bathroom that has avanity,bath, and shower.Additionally,there is aseparate laundry and alinen press in the hallway for extra storage.

Outside, agents say the property has a low-maintenance yard with established lawn and garden. There is also agarden shed and asingle garage with access to the backyard.

School Line up 2025

c h o o l

BUNDALAGUAH PRIMARY

l i n e u p

Respect -Enjoy -Achieve -Learn

Nambrok -Denison Primary School concentrate on fosteringa warm and friendly atmospherewherechildren are encouragedtoachieve to the best of their ability and develop alife-long love of lear ning.

Please contact the school for further enquires 5149 2410 947 Sale-Cowwarr Road Nambrok

ENROL NOW FOR 2025

Guthridge Primar ySchool

Forfurther information and to arrange atour contact the Acting Principal; Adele Ognew on 5145 6554 or stratford.ps@education.vic.gov.au

At StratfordPrimary School, effort is valued, and achievement recognised. We take prideinthe fact that, as asmall school, we offer many and varied opportunities for

students.

Our well-rounded academic program is complimented by the specialist areas we offer –Healthand Wellbeing, Kitchen Garden, Physical Education, Visual Art, Music, Indonesian, History,Geography and Science.

Digital Technologies areintegrated across all subject areas.

We look forwardtowelcoming you to our school –asmall school with big opportunities!

Our vision at Stratford Primary School – to develop the whole child in partnership with our community

Our guiding principle –to engage our students in an informative, safe learning environment that supports the growth of confident, numerate, literate, informed and responsible global citizens

Our mission – to present programs that develop confident, independent, honourable, cooperative students who are passionate about learning

Briagolong Primary School

Engaging Curriculum

School

3CroftsRdCobains

Be part of our enthusiastic school wherelearningextends far beyond the classroom. Family and community focused events create well rounded confident students.

We offer asafeand supportiveenvironment with:

•Astrong focus on Literacy and Numeracy

•Specialist programs: Music,PE, Art, Scienceand Kitchen Garden

•Instrumental Music, Cows Make CareersProgram, Gymkhana and Inter-school sports and activities.

•Out of school hourscareoptions

SCHOOL LINEUP

2024 School Principals

Chris Randell Catholic College Sale

Anita Little St Thomas Primary School Matt Currie Maffra Primary School

Jennifer Roep Maffra Secondary College

Michele Wakeham Gippsland Grammar

Brendan Staple Sale College

Karen Smyth Araluen Primary School

Sandra Platt Cobains Primary School

Chris Malone Sale ‘545’ Primary School

Velleda Bradford Heyfield Primary School

Adele Ognew Acting Principal Stratford Primary School

Mark Donald Briagolong Primary School

Sarah Whitwam Bundalaguah Primary School

Kylie Edney Nambrok-Denison Primary

Belinda Marshall Boisdale Primary School

Gayle Coleman Wurruk Primary School

Jamie Gay Sale Specialist School

Brett Wilson Rosedale Primary School

Joel Brayshaw St Patricks Primary School

Brett Morris St Mary ’s Primary School Sale

Joel Fraser Longford Primary School

Emily Streitberg Guthridge Primary School

Geri Carter Airly Primary School

Julian Blackford St Mary ’s Primary School Maffra

Shane Fyfe St Michael’sPrimary School

Chanae Johns Cowwarr Primary School

Damian Lappin LochSport Primary School

Heyfield

Youngster charges into the industry

AT just 19-years-old, Holly Anderson might be the youngest Australian cattle breeder to have abull placed in the artificial insemination (AI) system.

Empire Banks Phas been picked by Genetics Australiaand is expected to have semen this spring

While Holly’s Empire Jerseys stud is relatively new, she hailsfrom afamily that has beenproducing top-quality Jerseys for decades.

Holly’s parents, Rob and Kerrie, operate Kings Ville Jerseys, which has sold 28 bulls into AI, and was named one of Jersey Australia’s inaugural master breeders. Kings Ville was started in 1987by Rob supported by his parents, Bert and Winsome, who established Kings View Jerseys in 1961.

Holly was keen to go one step further and came up with the name Empire to reign over the Kingdom

“I always jokedwith Dad whenever one of my cows had agirl that my empire was growing and that’s how Empire Jerseys was created,”Hollysaid.

“My family has Kings in their stud names, Istill wanted my stud to be connected with them but to be separate at the same time.”

Holly says there is some friendly rivalry within the family -and she beat her Dad who was 24-years-old when he sold his first bull to AI -but she acknowledges their support.

“I must be close to being the youngest to get a bull into AI,” Holly said.

“I’m happy to get that goal ticked off and hopefully I’ll get more in the future, but I’m very thankful to Mum and Dad because it wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for them.”

Holly’s journey to AI breeding success started when she was 12 and got to take her pick of any heifer in the calf shed, an offer that was extended to her older sisters, Em and Meg.

“I chose Archer Belle, she had Matt Belle, the dam of Empire Banks,” Holly said.

“I didn’t base it off what she looked like; Ichose her becauseshe had the highest BPI in the calf shed. It was acase of mind over heart.”

In 2021, Hollystarted EmpireJerseys and in 2023 she started full-time work on the farm. She now has full control over what bulls she uses.

“Because I’m relatively new to the game, when it comestomybreedingobjectives, Iaim forpolled as well as creating more efficient and productive cows,” she said.

“When Matt Belle was born and Isaw that she had ideal numbers beingthe highest BPI jersey heifer in Australia, it gave me the hope that one dayshe would putabull into AI.When Ilooked

at thenumberofbulls mum and dad had sent into AI, gettingmyown bull in the systemdefinitely became agoal of mine.

“WhenMatt Belle had her first son, he was just a couple short on BPI which taught me the value of genomics, the challengesthat come with achanging criteria baseand to focusonimportant reliant traits for the jersey breed. Iwas fortunate enough for Matt Belle to have another son… Banks. When his genomics arrived, it was an exciting moment and Ithought he had agood chance,” Holly said.

“I’m abit biased due to the strong relationship Ihave created with Banks but Idohope he goes on to do well.”

While Belles are the main family within Empire Jerseys, the budding stud also boasts Banks, Melmiss and Eran among other s, including Fernleafs she owns and co-owns with her sisters.

“I’d love to get abull from the Fernleaf family into AI,” Holly said.

“I’ve got areal soft spot for Jerseys due to being a fifth-generation dairy farmer. Isee the Jersey cow playingabig part into the sustainable future due to their size and production and can see Australian Jersey genetics going very far around the world.”

Holly has embraced the industry and is vicepresident of Gippsland Dairy Youth Group.

“I enjoy organising events and helping to encourage the next generation,” she said.

“It’s important to have asupported environment and build relationships with like-minded people.”

Genetics Australia's Chief Executive, Anthony Shellysaidno-one on theGAteamcould recall ayounger breeder supplying abull to the team.

“It’s exciting news for the Jersey breed, not only have enthused youth but to have Holly leading the way,” Mr Shelly said.

“No doubt she has been mentored by some strong family influences, yet Holly has still had the vision and passion to create her own herd and breeding program. We are proud to be associated with such an inspirational young achiever and look forward to many more Empirebullsjoining the Genetics Australiateam.”

Empire Banks Pisaparticularly well-balanced bull with BPIg $342, and an excellent production profile with strong kilosand components along with appealing health traits, Survival +110, Cell Count +134, Mastitis Resistance +105, combined with linear scores that excel for strength and udders.

Buildingstrongerfarmingbusinesses in Gippsland

FARMERS in central, south and west Gippsland are invitedtoattendupcoming FarmBusiness Success workshops to support their business and action planning to buildastrongerbusinessfor tomorrow.

AgricultureVictoriaHorticulture Program Manager, Ai mee McCutch eon said the free workshops provide the opportunity to discuss and

consider how to manage risks, including production, biosecurity, people or the work environment.

The workshops have been designed in partnership with the ION Group, for farmers, farm managers and employeestoimprovetheir knowledge and skills in key farm business management areas to allow for clear planning and decision making.

"Attendeeswill have the opportunitytomeet

like-mindedfarmers, find information and tools on making their business more productive, farm smarter and achieve their individual business goals, as well as afocus on work-life balance.

"The workshops are relevant for farmers in the horticulture (includingnursery and garden), meat andwool, and apiary industries across the region,”

Ms McCutcheon said.

“We encourage farmers from various backgrounds and industries to attend, regardless of their knowledge level, as there will be opportunities to learn new things and develop skills to take back to the farm.”

The seriesofsessionswill cover arange of module topics,including action planning,riskidentification and management,profitabledecision making, managing people on farm, farm safety and wellbeing, adaptationand natural resource improvement including soil, water, crops and pastures.

Session times are as follows:

•Central Gippsland -Maffra: Tuesday, August 6and Wednesday, August 7-Module 1-3

Thursday, August 15 and Friday, August 16Module 4-6

Register for Central Gippsland here: forms.office. com/r/R9ECEjqYzJ

•South Gippsland: Mirboo North: Tuesday, August 27 and Wednesday, August 28 -Module 1- 3.

Tues day ,S ep temb er 10 and Wednesda y, September 11 -Module 4- 6. Register for South Gippsland here: forms.office. com/r/Az7Jpi3n0b

•West Gippsland: Drouin: Monday, September16and Tuesday, September 17 -Module 1- 3.

Monday, September 30 and Tuesday,October 1-Module 4-6

Register for WestGippsland here: forms.office com/r/jTt4zrx0zn

Workshops are delivered by Agriculture Victoria through the Farm Business Resilience Program with joint funding from the federal government’s Future Drought Fund and the state government’s Future Agriculture Skills Capacity Fund.

Holly Anderson (right)withher father Rob, andgrandmother Winsome. Photo:KerrieAnderson

Early focus for better outcomes

KatrinaBrandon

CALF health was the subject of arecent workshop held by ProDairy and Gippsland Veterinary Hospital at the Macalister Demonstration Farm in Riverslea.

Speaking at the event was Maffra vet, Dr Katherine Snell, who covered awide range of topics, including the importance of colostrum, its definition, common calf illnesses, treatments, and signs to watchfor in calves and colostrum. She addressedthe diverse reasons acalf can fall ill, aiming to reassure the 30 to 40 farmers present.

“Calf rearing is not one size fits all. Often, it is pieces of apuzzle that we put together to ensure we have healthy calves,” she said.

First, colostrum. Dr Snelltold the groupthat colostrum is one of the most important factors in raising acalf, which is crucial in the first 24 hours of life.

Colostrum is the first milk produced in the udder afterthe calf is born.Itharbours immunoglobulins (antibodies) to help the calves build immunity to illnesses later in life. According to Dr Snell, many factors affect the quality of the colostrum, such as whetherthe cowwas leaking before calving, the length of the dry period, and how much milk the cow produces. Milk from the second to eighth milking, or “colostrum” after the first milk, is considered transition milk, which isn’t as critical as the first milking.

“The problem is that these antibodies or immunoglobulins are highly trained and specificfor certain disease types. They know their target and are verygood at finding it, but if somethingelse comes in, they have no idea what to do with it. It is reallyimportant forcalves to receive these immunoglobulins because they have no immune defence when they are born,” she said.

“Colostrum helps protect calves from diseases in the first six weeksoflife. From birth, calves start to make their immunoglobulins, but it takes four to six weeks to become fully developed, fully functional and in sufficient amounts to actually combat diseases.”

According to Dr Snell, good colostrum management in the first24hours helps lead calves to healthierlives,produce more milk, significant weight gains, feed conversion efficiency, and almost half the veterinary costs compared with an animal without sufficient colostrum. She also told the group that in astudy,about 50 percent of calves on farms weren’t receiving enough colostrum.

Farmers can manage their colostrum well by using the four-Q systemofquickly, quality, quantity, and squeaky clean.

'Quickly' is the most important factor in colostrum management and the one that farmershave the most control over. About 12 hours after birth, a calf can only absorb five per cent of the antibodies delivered to it. At best, acalf will only absorb 40 per cent of theantibodies provided for them.While the absorption decreases overtime, what they don’t absorb will still sit locally in the guts, which will still provide protection.

Visual ly looki ng at co lostru m, you can ’t distinguish between poorand good quality concentrations of antibodies within the colostrum. An older cow might not necessarilyhave the best qualitycolostrum. Youmight findthatthe wellvaccinated heiferhas an exceptional colostrum quality. Dr Snellrecommendedthat farmers use aBrix Refractometer to measure the levels of colostrum and to keep poor(measuring below 22 on the BrixRefractometer)and goodquality (measuring above 22 on the Brix Refractometer) in two different buckets.

Quality also depends on how long after milking you will usethe milk.Itisbest to use the colostrum

as soon as you can, as its immunoglobulin levels drop the older it gets.

“Most salmonella/e coli outbreaks that(vets) come across, we find the most common cause of contamination is cupsthat have gone on dirty teets because there are bits of poo on the ends and it pulls into the milk harvesting facility, and it brews away in the milk,” Dr Snell said.

Ideally, milk should be stored in stainless steel buckets with lids, as plastic buckets can harbour bacteria. Asurplus amount of milk can be stored in afridge for two days or in a‘Perfect Udder Bag’ in the freezer for up to 12 months.

How much colostrum do you feed your calves? 'Quantity'depends on 'quality',according to Dr Snell.Ifyou feed poor-quality colostrum, you mustfeed morethanyou would withhighquality so that the calf reaches the same amount of immunoglobulins.

She said: “For example, you have a40-kilogram calffed within fourhours of birth. Poor quality colostrum: You need two-by-three-litrefeeds in the first 24 hours. Good quality colostrum, we only need two-by-two feeds within the first 24 hours.”

Like allfood-based sectors, it is essential to keep your equipment and environment “squeaky” clean to preventthe introductionofbacterialspores into thecolostrum.AccordingtoDrSnell, bacteria love fats,protein, and energy, which is what colostrum is made of. Bacteria also doubles in numbers every 20 minutes at 20 degrees within abucket of milk, making the speed and cleanliness of the colostrum and colostrum storage essential.

Hygienic collection via clean cups, clean, dry teets, and good, clean storage can reduce contamination risks. While cleaningyour equipment, Dr Snell recommends alukewarm rinse, then ahot wash and household bleach with thorough scrubbing, and then either an air dry or alukewarm rinse again.

Other ways to reducesickness are to avoidcalves

of different age groups, not crowd your pens, have good husbandry practices, and keep the environment clean.

Dr Snell told the groupto“hotel quarantine your calves” when they have sick calves and to reduce the spread of illness.

Some common illnesses that Dr Snell discussed in the workshopincluded scours, respiratory illnesses (Rotavirus and Coronavirus), naval ill, and joint ill, and what to look out for in calves to know when they are sick.

She said to keep an eye on behavioural and physical changes in the calf so that you can help prevent further illness if the calf isn’t acting like itself or isolating itself. Check if the calf is alright and showing any signs of disease.

Features that often help catch sickness in cows include ears, eyes, nose and tail.

For more information, go to: prodairy.com.au

Maffra veterinarian, Dr KatherineSnell (right) spoke at aworkshop on calf healthinRiverslea.

Photo: File

PLASTERER

FIREWISE WORKSHOP

MAFFRA MARKET

Fitter and Turner /Valve Technician

Measurement Plus is actively seeking aFitterand Turner /Valve Technician to join their successful service team based in Wurruk.

The position will be workshop based, with the potential to work at various site locations and offshore upon completion of aprobationary period and all necessary training requirements.

We are looking for aself-starter, who can work well on their own, and also be part of ateam on larger, more complex jobs. The successful applicant will need to undergo apreemployment medical and must commit to supporting and complying with the company's quality and safety policies.

Experience in the repair and servicing of energy sector or process industry valving and associated equipment will be well regarded, with competitive rates available for the suitable candidate.

Please send aCV and cover letter to j.martens@measurement-plus.com.au

ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPER

Due to continued growth, we are seeking an experienced Accountant/Bookkeeper to join our friendly and efficient team.

online!

The successful applicant should possess the following skills:

● Previous experience in preparation of Income Tax returns for individuals and small business.

● Previous experience in BAS preparation for small business clients.

● Previous experience in payroll processing.

● Working knowledge of Reckon, Quickbooks, MYOB, Excel, Word, Xero

The role is offered on apermanent part time or casual basis and an attractive salary is on offer.

Please forward your resume along with aletter of application to: kellie@pundandassociates.com.au. Applications close on Friday 9th August 2024.

Expression of Interest

Board Directors

GippslandPrimary

knit organisation with acultureofsuccess,made possible through ourresolve to work as ateam. It takesinnovative andcreativepeople to ensureweprovide theright services at theright time; services that make adifference. Youwill help us identify newopportunities, coordinate andsupport healthservices andcommission newservices. Our board directors are alsoresponsible forensuring governance and oversightofGippsland PHN’s legal and financial accountability and statutory requirements, as well as compliancewith funding deed requirements

We needdiversity of governance knowledge, expertise and experience. This maybeinsome of the following areas: •Experience in legal, risk and compliance •ITand cybersecurity.

•Diverse backgrounds

We are seeking one electedDirector andtwo appointed Directors to join us in November2024. If youbelieve you are up forthe challenge to help us achieveour vision, you are encouraged to apply

Successful candidates will be required to undergo background checks including criminal history checks, and also have aDirector ID.

HOWTOAPPLY

Reviewonlineinformation and completedocuments available at: gphn.org.au/about-us/eoi-board-directors/

have anatural eye fordetail and an interest in electrical circuits and networks, becoming an Electrical Apprentice could be for you!

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Deaths •

BIRDSEY, John Shenfield

17.4.1936 -28.7.2024

88 years Passed away peacefully at Ashleigh House. Loving husband of Mary-Elizabeth. Adored father of Tom (dec.), Rick, and Angie. Much loved father-in-law of Frances, Bruce and Katrina. Cherished Pa of Michael, Liam, Riley, Jack, Molly, Brady, Lachie, Ollie, Belle and their partners. Great Pa to Cooper and Nabi. Reunited with his parents Frank and Olive, sister Mary-Joy and son Tom. Forever in our hearts. XXXX

GREENWOOD, Bob. Sale Golf Club is saddened at the loss of a long time member in Bob Greenwood Condolences to his family.

BIRDSEY, John Shenfield. My darling husband of 63 years, beautiful memories of our lives together creating 'our' story. "Go odb yes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I'll miss you, until we meet again". Your ever loving wife, Mary-Elizabeth xoxo

BIRDSEY, John Shenfield. Pa, we will always remember your strength and resilience throughout our lives. The love you gave us all we will cherish forever. You adored your forever growing family and our beautiful memories of you we will cherish forever.

"In life we loved you dearly, In death we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place no-one else could fill".

All our love forever Sons Tom (dec.), Rick, daughter Angie, Son-in -law Bruce, daughters-in-law Frances and Katrina and all their loving families XOXO.

•Doyou want to work with ateamofdedicatedprofessionals, whoare keen andeager to journeywithyoung people to helpthemachieve their dreams?

•Would youliketoliveand work in thebeautiful East Gippsland area? YouchooseTreescape or Seascape,withthe financial hubofBairnsdale at thecentre.

•Would youliketohelpdrive thenextstage of developmentfor Nagle Collegeinits journeytobecominga beaconofCatholiceducation?

If so,comeand be apartofour passionate, experienced,and dedicated staff in developing contemporary andinnovatedlearningenvironments.

Join ouramazing, welcoming students andhaveyourcontribution appreciated

DeputyPrincipal Staff Wellbeing & Development

DeputyPrincipal Learning &Teaching

AssistantPrincipal CatholicIdentityand Mission

Further details aboutthese positions canbefound on ourwebsite www.nagle.vic.edu.au

Applicationpacks canberequested by emailing principalpa@nagle.vic.edu.au

NagleCollegepromotesa Safe,Happy andSuccessful school forall Applications Close 15thAugust 2024

RAY (nee Carroll), Lorna Julia. 17/1/1931 -24/7/2024. Passed away peacefully at home aged 93 years. Loved wife of Billy (dec.). Cherished mother and mother-in-law of Jennifer (dec.) and Glenn, Robyn and Charles, Carolyn (Kelly) and Michael.

Adored Nanna to Corey, Damien, Alicia, Bree, Ben, Michael, Alex, Lauren, and Marnie.

Great Grandmother to Georgia, Isaak, Ashton, Elliot, Oscar, Dryden, Riley, Tearnee, Harry, Will, Ella, Frankie, Pixie, Billy and Sunny.

Your love, your sacrifice, your smile, You left alegacy in even the smallest things, You gave so much of yourself, Loving others unselfishly and unconditionally.

You were alight, a beacon, afire, Burning bright through the years.

You put your burdens on the shelf, Giving your heart so freely and beautifully.

You brought laughter, learning, and joy, Into moments large and small.

Your heart was your true wealth Abeautiful mother inside and out. Rest in Peace

Our darling mum lived and loved and laughed and cried with her family for 93 years. Goodbye mum, nan and too nan. You have left us with more than you will ever know.

Love your daughter Rob, son-in-law Charlie. Grandchildren Bree (Adrian), Ben (Carly), Michael, and Alex. Great grandchildren Harry, Will, Ella, Evie, and Noah. Mum,

It's hard to put into words what you meant to me.

You were my inspiration, you taught me what was important in life. Family was everything to you and you were everything to us. Iwas so privileged to have you as my Mum. Strong, stoic and never one to complain.

Selfishly Iwanted you to stay but now you can rest with those who have been waiting for you.

Lorna, cricket will never be the same without you We love you Mum Kelly and Mick.

Nan, My best values are those you instilled in me. Iwill miss the long phone calls, and your excitement at seeing me. You were loved every bit as much as you loved others.

Love Corey.

Dearest Nan, There will never be enough words to describe how loved you are. You were the most selfless, generous and loving grandmother, you gave us all of you. Iwill forever proudly live with the values and wisdom that you have passed on and Icredit so much of who Iam, to you. You were the most beautiful Great Nan, and adored by Georgia, Isaak, Ashton, Elliot, Tearnee and Oscar and aloving Nan to Gareth. Rest in Peace Nan, you are forever with me. Alicia XX.

RAY (nee Carroll), Lorna Julia. To our beautiful Nan and 2Nan, How lucky we were to have you. Our rock, inspiration and our role model. You taught us all so much and we are forever grateful. Your no nonsense attitude and unconditional love is something we will cherish. Our kids loved there 2 Nan and we will continue to hold you with us for ever more. We miss you already.

Love Loz, Rod, Marnie, Ferg, Frankie, Cheeky Pixie, Billy and Sunny.

RAY, Lorna.

To my beautiful little sister Lorna, God has taken you home to be with Billy and Jenny and broken my heart. Iwill miss our visits and phone calls everyday. Ihave loved you for 91 years and Iwill hold you in my heart forever. Ihave beautiful memories of our time together which Iwill cherish always.Your loving big sister Betty and Darby (dec.)

RAY, Lorna.

Aunty Lorna, you were small in stature but fiercely independent, strong, resilient and gentle in nature. Awonderful, loving, generous aunt who will be sadly missed but forever rememb ered. treasured memories of fami ly gath ering and Christm ases at Pal mer ston St .Y our stamina, positivity and ability to keep pushing through life was truly inspirational. The Lord stood by your bed and saw that you were weary. He put his arms around you and took you in his lobing care. Reunited with your beloved Billy and Jenny. To Robyn, Kelly and family, your loss is immense. One of life's treasures, now singing with the angels. Forever loved, Jo-Ann, Vicky, Mark and family.

RAY, Lorna. Passed away peacefully 24/7/2024.

Agood mother-in-law and very caring and adored grandmother. Now with Jenny and Billy. R.I.P. Love always Glenn

MILOSEVIC (nee Wuzberg)

Marie

18.3.26 -24.7.24

Mar ie pa ssed aw ay peacefully at the age of 98.

Loving wife of George (dec.). Loving mum of Peter and Veronica. Mother-in-law of Peter (dec.). Cherished nana of Angela and Tony, Michael and Jem. Baba of Sebastian and Kurt. After alonglife, may Marie now RIP

PRICE, Keith Raymond 'Pricey' of Dargo. 5/5/1942 -17/7/2024

Dearly loved partner of Doreen for 42 years. Aman whose needs were simple and didn't want a fuss. Till we meet again, with love, Doreen.

WILLIAMS (Stares), nee

Bott Margaret Florence

25.7.1946-26.7.2024

Loved wife of Ray (dec).

Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Pauline and Darren, Rodney and Cindy, Susan and Michael.

Loved Grandma of Jacob and Hannah; Piper and Aden; Britney and Maddie and their partners. Great Grandma of Maisie. Lovingly Remembered

WILLIAMS, (Bott) Margaret. God saw you getting tired, And acure was not to be, So he put his arms around you, And whispered "come to me" Rest in peace Margaret. Laurel, Ken (dec.), Alwyn and the Austin family.

WILLIAMS, Margaret. The Stratford Fire Brigade Ladies are deeply saddened by the passing of Margaret, adedicated member of the Auxiliary for 25 years. She will be sadly missed. The Auxiliary extend their condolences to Margaret's family.

Funerals •

BROBERG, (nee Saunders) Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mrs Frances 'Ann' Broberg will be offered at St. Mary's Cath olic Ca thedral, Pearson Street, Sale at 11am TOMORROW Wedne sday Jul y3 1, 2024, followed by burial at the Sale Monumental Lawn Cemetery.

Rosary will be recited in the above Cathedral at 6pm THISEVENING (Tuesday July 30).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sale Oncology Ward.

PRICE -The funeral of Mr Keith Raymond 'Pricey' Price of Dargo will leave the Dargo Hall, Lind Avenue, Dargo, after a service commencing at 11.00am on Wednesday (Aug. 14), 2024, for the Dargo Cemetery. No flowers by request. Donations to the Dargo CFA would be appreciated.

Stephen Baggs Funeral Directors Bairnsdale 5153 2150

SMITH, Irene Elizabeth, "Rene" Passed away July 31st 2023. One year ago, you slipped away, But you are still beside us every day. Forever love da nd remembered. Your loving daughter Julie. Grandchil dren Belinda, Heath and Paul, and great grandchildren Skye, Lennox, Nayte ,Laney and Flynn. In Memoriam

SMITH, Irene Elizabeth. 13/12/1923 -31.07.2023 It's hard to believe that a year has gone by since you left us. Not aday goes by that you are not in our thoughts and still bringing asmile to our faces. Love you now and forever.

Deb and Greg, Hayley, Tegan, Darren and Jack, Nick, Georgie and Birdie, Nathan and Abbey.

MILOSEVIC (nee Wuzberg) Funeral prayers for Mrs Marie Milosevic will be offe red at Delbrid ge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street, Sale at 2pm NEXT FRIDAY August 9, 2024, followed by burial at the Sale Monumental Lawn Cemetery. STEVENS, Russel. One year ago you past away, Istill love you and miss you, you stay in my heart forever, you wife Thereza Stevens.

RAY (nee Carroll). Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mrs Lorna Julia Ray will be offered at St Mary's Catholic Cathedral, Pearson Street Sale at 1pm on FRIDAY (2 August 2024) followed by burial at the Sale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oz Harvest.

BIRDSEY, For Funeral arrangements for Mr John Shenfield Birdsey, please check our website or phone:

WILLIAMS (Stares), nee Bott The funer al of Mrs Margaret Florence Williams is appointed to leave St. John's Anglican Church, cnr Church and Thomson Sts, Maffra after aservice commencing at 11 AM on THURSDAY (August 1st, 2024) for the Maffra Lawn Cemetery.

SMITH, Irene Elizabeth "Rene". Passed away July 31st 2023. Mum, Ikeep in my heart the love of the past, for there it was planted forever to last.

Your presence Imiss, Your memories Itreasure, Loving you always, Forgetting you never. Love always Alan.

WANKO, Peter. 10/08/1952 -30/07/2014

Remembering our peter who left this world 10 years ago. Still missed and not forgotten. Inge and Gary.

STEVENS, Russel Ayear has past, 31/07/23 Still missing you, Will never forget our time together. your son David.

Situations Vacant

Netball scoreboard Thrilling tie for Sale girls

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE -ROUND 15

AGRADE: Leongatha 46 def Morwell34, Moe 54 def Drouin 42, Wonthaggi59def Maffra35, Traralgon 32 drew Sale 32, Warragul 62 def Bairnsdale 32.

BGRADE: Leongatha62def Morwell 28, Moe 53 def Drouin45, Wonthaggi 65 def Maffra 34,Traralgon 55 defSale 28, Warragul 61 def Bairnsdale 50.

CGRADE: Leongatha 31 def Morwell 27,Drouin 43 def Moe 25, Maffra 35 def Wonthaggi 25, Traralgon 41 defSale 25, Bairnsdale 36 def Warragul 25. 17 AND UNDER: Leongatha 46 def Morwell 24, Drouin 48 def Moe38, Wonthaggi 44 def Maffra 41,Traralgon 44 def Sale 21,Bairnsdale 58 def Warragul 12

15 ANDUNDER: Leongatha28def Morwell 27, Moe 33 def Drouin 31,Wonthaggi 49 def Maffra 38, Traralgon 35 def Sale 29, Bairnsdale50def Warragul 21

13 ANDUNDER: Leongatha 53 def Morwell 3, Moe 44 def Drouin 18,Maffra 38 def Wonthaggi 9, Traralgon 28 drew Sale 28, Bairnsdale 54 def Warragul 4.

NORTH GIPPSLAND -ROUND 15

AGRADE: Rosedale 47 def YYN33, SaleCiy 52 def Glengarry 22, TTU30def Churchill 28, Heyfield 73 def Yarram 16,Woodside 75 defCowwarr 41, Gormandale -BYE.

BGRADE: YYN 47 defRosedale 21,Sale City 66 def Glengarry 24, Churchill 49 def TTU42, Heyfield 61 defYarram 30, Woodside 67 def Cowwarr 41 Gormandale -BYE.

C GRADE: YYN 31 drew Rosedale 31, Sale City 37 def Glengarry 34, Churchill50def TTU40, Yarram 33 def Heyfield 20, Woodside 47 defCowwarr 25, Gormandale -BYE.

DGRADE: YYN 41 def Rosdeale 39, Sale City 44 def Glengarry 32, TTU41def Churchill 29, Heyfield 33 def Yarram 25, Woodside 40 defCowwarr 27 Gormandale -BYE.

17 AND UNDER: Rosedale 39 def YYN 12,Sale City 60 def Glengarry 17,TTU 35 def Churchill 19,Heyfield 51 def Yarram 11,Woodside 48 def Cowwarr 20, Gormandale -BYE.

EAST GIPPSLAND -ROUND 14

AGRADE: Stratford44def LakesEntrance 33, Lucknow 54 def Wy Yung 34, Boisdale-Briagolong 88 def Paynesville 21,Orbost SnowyRovers64def Lindenow 50.

BGRADE: Lindenow 39 def OSR 33, Lakes Entrance 30 def Stratford27, Boisdale-Briagolong 73 def Paynesville 9, Wy Yung 43 def Lucknow 35.

CGRADE: Stratford35def Lakes Entrance 22, OSR 34 def Lindenow 33, Boisdale-Briagolong 52 def Paynesville 14,Lucknow 34 def Wy Yung 33. DGRADE: OSR 16 def Lindenow 15,Lakes Entrance 39 def Stratford27, Boisdale-Briagolong 65 def Paynesville 5, Wy Yung 42 def Lucknow 28. 17 AND UNDER: OSR 10 defLindenow 0, Lakes Entrance42def Stratford 16,Boisdale-Briagolong 55 def Paynesville 7, Lucknow 39 def Wy Yung 26. 15 ANDUNDER: Paynesville 47 defBoisdaleBriagolong 22, Stratford47def Lakes Entrance 18, Lindenow 48 def OSR 35, Lucknow 37 def Wy Yung 29.

Blake Metcalf-Holt andErika Allen

ONLY three games remain for some clubs in the Gippsland League netball season, meaning these lastfew rounds amplify in weight as finals awaits.

In Traralgon, nothing could separate the Maroons and Sale, as the game ended 32-all.

Sale, with no chance of apostseason berth this time in theyear, were now seeking the little wins; and they almost went all the way for only their second victory of the season.

Notmanywould have expected this result,even on Traralgon’send.

The Magpiesstuckfirmand proved it was going to be along game despite the difference in ladder positioning as the first quarter concluded, tied 11 apiece.

Sale used their opening confidence to jump out by threegoals at halftime and hold aone-goal lead in time for the final term.

The Maroons narrowly outscored their opposition to finish, but it meant that no one would be celebrating thoroughly upon the final whistle.

Kate Van der Voort finished with 27 for all but five of Sale’s 32 goals, whereas Traralgon had even contributions from Sophie Lecchinoand Grace Van Tilburg with 17 and 14 goals each respectively.

The Magpies can hold their headuphighhaving won their first and only game of the season afew weeks ago against Maffra, before being handily beaten by two strong westerly sides in Warragul and Drouin.

The fourth-placed Traralgon will lament this opportunity to alleviate some of the pressure as they only sitagame clear of Bairnsdale in sixth and tied withWonthaggi for the finaltwo spots in the top five.

It’s nearly ado-or-die game for them this weekend when they host Drouin who have been flying all year long.

Wonthaggi weren’tmessing around in their trip to Maffra,asthey beat the Eagles 59-35 to keep themselves in the top five.

It was astrong start from Maffra, who haven’t found awin yet this season, only down two goals after quarter time.

However, the Power were only just getting started, finishing the halfupsix goals and then holding the Eagles to justfourgoals to keep their leadincheck

ChelseaBowmanfinished with 37 goals to go along with Courtney Brann’s 22 for Wonthaggi, while Keisha Jackson had astrong showing with 21 goals.

In other games, Moe bounced back from their first blemish, adraw against Bairnsdale aweek ago, to defeat closest rival Drouin in a54-42 contest in Drouin.

Leongatha puttheir foot down against the visiting Morwell, to win 46-34, keeping their slim finals hopes alive.

Warragul disrupted in-form Bairnsdale to win by 30 goals at Bairnsdale, as they begin to ramp up their finals mode.

NORTHGIPPSLAND netball has well and truly hit the point in the season where the team’s that are capable of going all the way have begun to shrink.

At most, three games remain in the season for some clubs andasitstandsthere’s two or three sides thatcould be holdingupthe trophy at the pointy end of the year, barring asurpriseoutsider.

In Round 15, Traralgon TyersUnited upset premiership contender, Churchill in athrilling 30-28 contest.

The Bombers’ victory shakes the ladder up slightly, now moving the Cougars back two games from favourites Sale City, while TTU hold to the final spot in the top five ahead of their game against

bottom-placed Yarram.

Sale City made light work of Glengarry, winning 52-22.

The Bulldogs claimed their 13th win from 13 games to remain clear top of the ladder, while the Magpies sit two games back of fifth position.

Woodside choked up their10thwin of the season in a75-41 takedown of Cowwarr.

The awayvictoryfor the Wildcatsties them with Heyfield for third-place and only agame back of Churchill for second on the ladder as they make their charge for back-to-back premierships.

The Saints meanwhile, position themselves within the bottom-three of the competitionwith awin-lossrecord of 3-10 for theyear

Heyfielddismantled Yarram, 73-16 to give them amuch-needed percentage booster to place

themselves strongest for finals.

The Kangaroos now sit tied for thirdposition while Yarram are holding up the ladder. Rosedale defeated Yallourn Yallourn North, 47-33.

The Blues sit idly behind TTU, both with seven wins, in sixthspotjust outside of afinals position, whileYYN remain on three wins for the year in eighth.

Gormandale had the bye.

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG did whatthey needed to do in Round 14 of East Gippslandnetball.

The Bombers -after being nudged out of the top fourlastweek -reassumed fourthspotover Orbost Snowy Rovers (OSR) in fifth.

Apercentage-boosting win was needed, and on Saturday the Bombers got just that, defeating Paynesville at home 88 to 21.

Lucknow are clear favourites now.

If the Magpies hadn’t provenitalready,a convincing 20-goal victory over second-placed Wy Yung proved their consistency will be hard to dismantle come finals. With just three rounds to go, the Magpies will face Lakes Entrance, Paynesville and OSR -all games they should win.

Stratford are clear in third.

Consistency has been the Swans’ key to success in the latter part of the season, and sees them placed comfortably.

Fourpoints behind Wy Yungand fourpoints ahead of Boisdale-Briagolong, the Swansrun home shouldn’t be interrupted by defeat.

Agame with feeling is on the horizon however, because in Round 16 (August 10), they will play the Bombers who will be looking to finish their season off strong. If not to cement aplace in the top four, to clinch a2-1 record against the Swans in season 2024.

Elsewhere, atravelling OSR clashed with Lindenow in agamethat yielded 114 goals. The Blues werestronger, however, defeating the Cats by 14 goals, 64-50.

Maffra’s Chloe Proud poised to feedthe ball from the centrepassatthe weekend.

Photo: ErikaAllen

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

Second half fa deout

Liam Durkin

WONTHAGGI are keeping everyoneon their toes in Gippsland League football.

The Power broke away from adetermined Maffra at the weekend, winning their Round 15 clash 13.8 (86) to 5.7 (37).

GOALS: Moe: NProwse2 MHeywood JWood DKeilty. Drouin: KWalmsley 2JHuston. BEST: Moe: TBaldi JWood JBalfour MHeywood Svan DykJ Shields.Drouin: JMcKellar WBrewerT Johnstone KWalmsley EMorris CQuirk

WONTHAGGI 6.26.3 9.7 13.8 (86)

MAFFR A1.2 5.5 5.6 5.7 (37)

GOALS: Wonthaggi: CMcInnes 4JBlair 2J Williams TMacmillan HTiziani ALindsay MHayes. Maffra: SSmith 2NChristyDBedggood AWatt. BEST: Wonthaggi: CMcInnes AMcNeelA LindsayJ Thomas JGilmour TMacmillan. Maffra: BMonkS Smith AWrightACarrT Scott Z Felsbourg

MORWELL 2.0 4.1 6.5 8.8 (56)

LEONGATHA 2.5 3.7 3.10 4.10 (34)

Morwell: CCampbell TGrayB Macfarlane BMcDonald DMusil TBrown BMcauliffe

JHarry 2T Marriott NArgento. BEST: Morwell: BMacfarlaneCBurr B Bailey TGrayMLinton. Leongatha: BWillis DHume SForrester JWalker JHarry TNash LA DDER

be no magic formula or drastic changes to the gameplanthat ledtoMorwell'seventual 22 point victory. To quote The Grade Cricketer -"theboys were on".

It was as simple as that for Morwell.

butsquare at the main break (two points). By now the paddock had become acattle yard, but unfortunately the Drouin farmers left the gate open and acouple of Moe bulls got out.

LRock WHesterLForatoSCur tis WLuke.Drouin: TWans J Clerks DPhillipsD FrombergE BrackenC Wans

Maffra: JOldham 3LDyer2 LRobbins BMckenzie JBristow AMcKenzie.Wonthaggi: ABusana2 WLuke BEST: Maffra: AMcKenzie DGrayS Tudor LDyerRPhelan JKelly Wonthaggi: JJoske JWilliamson KMohen KYannRLindsayCLindsay

5.5 11.8 17.9 22.12 (144)

(17) GOALS: Bairnsdale: LDunkley 8NDesio 3J Dore3JFroud 3MNeate DO’Connor LRussell R BlandfordMJeffer y. Warragul: JSimpson lFinnegan. BEST: Bairnsdale: LDunkley BFroud R Carstairs JWaddell JFroud MNeate.Warragul: SKelly DSmar tN Whitten TWouters JOrlicki DRidgway

(37) GOALS: Leongatha: FMateria 3T McRae3NNagel 3LHickey 2R KellyJ Pellicano NFixter. Morwell: GMenthaS Gissara BWilliams EPorigneaux CWhite. BEST: Leongatha: JPellicano LHickeyNFixterT McRaeN Hanily RKelly.Mor well:BBriggs OHowe ZCheffers GCheshire CWhiteE

LA DDER

DPaulKBoi C Mcintosh MCahill LMoore. Bairnsdale: MNeate OEmmett EGallaschRLieuwen CCook N Nugent-Brown LEONGATHA 8.2 11.9 14.14 18.17 (125) MORWELL 0.0 0.0 1.1 2.1 (13)

Leongatha: MCroatto7IBolge 2HGill EBerr yman BFor tF Donohue KBerr yman NSkewes JFixterBMcRae TGannon. Morwell: MBlewett. BEST: Leongatha: MCroattoN Skewes FDonohue HBowlerHGill JCallahan. Morwell: RMakepeaceLEffenbergMBlewett LCarpino CSeymour

(57)

DROUIN 4.3 5.4

MOE 0.0 0.1 1.1 2.1 (13)

GOALS: Drouin: OHermansen 2CKleevenB BibbyRCaddy KGregg TMapleson RBaker Moe: LEarlXBerquez. BEST: Drouin: TMapleson LMcdonald ECroucher FLockwood O Hermansen MWilliames.Moe: XBerquez JChila JPaceAStylesKMulley OBudd

TR AR ALGON 5.3 11.3 14.7 20.10 (130)

SALE0.2 0.5 1.7 2.7 (19)

GOALS: Traralgon: BBurrows 5RRutter 4O Haberl 3ERoscoe 3JBalcombe Matters 2J Zappulla GRuach HPirie.Sale: TRonchi JCantwell BEST: Traralgon: TLapenta HHenry A BlackfordJ Moloney KRowleyLGreenhill.Sale: STreglown TDobsonJGreenwood MMalone JCantwell KSchoenmaekers

TheEagles, spurred on by captainDaniel Bedggood breaking the club’s senior games record (254),took it up to their visiting opponents in the first half.

Maffra trailed by just four points at the main break, andwould have been daringto dream on the resumption.

Wonthaggi however, with their season on the line, came out and kicked seven goals in the secondhalf,all while keepingthe Eagles to just two behinds.

Cooper McInnes slottedfour in thewin and was best-on-ground. Aiden Lindsay, Jakeb Thomas, Jye Gilmour and fourthsplayer Tom Macmillan were also in the best, along with Andrew McNeel.

Gilmour, Macmillan and McNeel are just ahost of relatively unknown Wonthaggi players, inadvertently adding to the fear factor associated with the Power potentially being one of the great unknowns come finals.

McNell had not playedseniorssince Round 2, and only joined the club this year from the Barwon region, where he mainly featured in the early game there.

Bray den Monk, Seth Smit h, Ashto n Wright, Alex Carr,Tom Scott and Zac Felsbourg were best for Maffra.

Wonthaggi are seventhonthe ladder, and their home game against Bairnsdale this weekend is shaping as avirtual elimination final for either side.

The Redlegs did what they had to do at the weekend, beating Warragul by 24 points.

Ethan East was best in his 100th game, while Hugh Longbottom,Lachlan ByrneJones,Cooper Harvey, WillMitchell and Byron Vickery were productive.

Isaac Wallace, Mitch Smart, Brad Hefford, Tom Stern, Oliver Wilson and Jack Lewsey were best for the travelling Guls, who lost 10.14 (74) to 6.14 (50).

Wonthaggi has aclear run to finals (games against Bairnsdale, Drouin and Moe). If you were to ask this writer: can Wonthaggi win the flag? The answer would be succinct.

Absolutely they can.



BOYD Bailey must be the most frustrated coach in the league.

Frustrated in agood way -ascontradictory as that sounds.

For all the close games Bailey's Morwell team have put him through in his time as head coach and assistant (17 games decided by 10 points or lesssince 2022), their performance at the weekend proved exactly what they are capable of.

If you are only as good as your last game, then Morwell are the bestteaminthe competition right here and now.

The Tigers completely dismantled premiership favourite Leongatha at the weekend, beating the Parrots 8.8 (56) to 4.10 (34).

The win replicated Morwell's victory over the same opponent earlier in the season.

That win was described as arguably the Tigers' best since the 2014 premiership.

What they achie ved at the weeken d however would just about top it.

When Morwell knocked off Leongatha back in Round 6, it was an arm wrestle on the Tigers' home deck.

This time however, Morwell took down Leongatha in their own backyard, and what's more, didn't have to resort to ultra negative defensive tactics.

Truthfully,the Tigers made the Parrots look very second rate.

You could have counted on one hand how many touches afew Leongatha playershad. Adding to the intrigue, there appeared to

The Tigers could have been playing on adry autumn day such was the cleanness of their hands around stoppage, while in defence, the desperation went to another level.

Avery shortfirst quarter (25.30) saw Leongatha ahead by five points.While ordinarily,the Parrotsoften break away the further the game goes on, Morwell was able to stick with their opponent, and had the game right where they wanted at the half, all tied up at 25-apiece.

The Tigers were certainly up for the fight, and asmart goal from Burkeley Macfarlane playing on to drill along range goal at the scoreboardend gave Morwell the lead momentarily.

Morwell lifted again in the third, kicking two goals while keeping Leongatha to three behinds.

Things were rolling for the Tigers,and when Tyler Hillier still managed to find Brandon McDonald inside 50 on his left, slipping as he kicked it, to give Morwell a goal insidethe firstthree minutes, afamous victory was starting to materialise.

Cohen Campbellkicked Morwell's second goalfor the third term, giving them a12 point lead at the 19 minute mark.

The visitorswould have extended the lead, had it not been for ahugebrain fade from Tom Gray.

The Parrots received ahugelet off after a Morwell goal was taken off right on the eve of three quarter time.

Gray responded to agut punchfrom Olden by throwing him to the ground inside 50, justasMcDonaldhad sent through amajor.

As Jack Dyer would say "retaliate first".

Grayredeemedhimself by kicking the first goal of the last, taking the lead to 20 points just three minutes in.

From there, Morwell controlled tempo as necessary, beforeRiley Loprese sealed the deal with aneat set shot in front of the scoreboard as the clock ticked closer to red time.

Brandon Bailey was best for the winners, while Macfarlane, CharlieBurr, BoydBailey,Grayand Max Linton were prominent.

Morwell's work in taking Leongatha's best players out of the equation was reflected in the list of the Parrots top six players.

Those accolades went to Ben Willis, Hume, SamForrester, Jay Walker, Harry and Travis Nash.

 SOME things just go well together. Bacon and eggs, strawberries and cream, CC &Dry.

In acountry football sense,there might be no surer combination than Jacob Wood and Drouin Recreation Reserve.

For the third time in his last four visits to the mud-soacked venue, the Moe captain was among the best players.

Naturally, he left the ground covered from head to toe in dirt, as did his teammates, following their 5.6 (36) to 3.7 (25) victory.

If the scoresweren'taclear enough indication, the match was aterritory battle, with the ball spending most of the time well below the knees.

Perhaps fittingly given the oval's likeness to acow paddock, Drouinkicked all their goals in the first quarter, figuratively making hay while the sun shined.

Their efforts gave Moe some causefor concern at the first break, with a13-point lead in the context of the conditions amore than handy buffer.

The Lions responded with 2.2 (14) to 0.3 (3)inthe second term, to leave the game all

Aquick snap amid congestion from Wood floated toward goal to give the Lions afour point lead, which was followed in similar fashionfrom Matt Heywood at the'downhill' end of the ground.

Those would be the last two goals of the game.

Moe led by 11 pointsatthree quarter time, and played out the last term in apure grind to end up winning by that same margin. Wood and Heywood were joined in the best by Trent Baldi,JacobBalfour (who may have feltlike he wasatworkonhis Willow Grove farm), Scottvan Dyk and Jordan Shields, both avery long way from the classroom.

The Lions went to second on the ladder as aresult of this win.

Adding to the subplots to emerge this season, it is perhapsridiculous to think Moe aren't being mentioned in the same breath as Leongatha or Traralgon, despite beingoutright secondonthe ladderwith three games to go.

Granted losses to Warragul, Sale and Traralgon (twice) have meant the Lions have been inconsistent at times, they have still beaten seven of nine opponents in the competition.

James McKellar collected the votes for Drouin, followed by Will Brewer,Tom Johnstone, Kaiden Walmsley, Ed Morris and Caleb Quirk. In strange circumstances, Morrishas already been announced as coach of West Gippsland side Garfield for next season. Surely the last three weeks at training are going to be abit awkward for Drouin, knowingtheir current assistant coachis already on the move.

Elsewhere, the Hawks' home ground will receive ahugeoverhaul in coming months, howeverthereremains the issue of this season's finals series.

Drouin is set to host the Qualifying Final in just four weeks' time, and still has one home gameleft before the regular season is out.

Keep in mind there will be three games of football on thesurface by the timethe seniors start.

Truthfully, the condition of the Drouinoval was not absolutely horrendous during the under 18s last Saturday, but the same could not be said by the time the seniors started.

Making matters more complicated, Drouin is not the only venue slated to host finals this year with substandard facilities. Bairnsdale is also hosting aWeek 1final, but its surfacehas been quite soft,while the cricketsquare at Moe's Ted Summerton Reserve is in fact even muddier than Drouin in some parts.

Add in Traralgon Recreation Reserve (still without proper change rooms) hosting the Preliminary Final, and it unfortunately means four of the six finals could well and truly make amockery of the tag "premier" associated with the Gippsland League. Such an outcome would undoubtedly be ashamegiven how great the competition has been.

The fact Ted Summerton Reserve missed out on hosting more finalsbecause the grass wasn't greenenough to broadcast on TV and social media is looming as agreat irony. There might not be any grass at all to broadcast these finals.

FOOTBALL NETBALL EAST GIPPSLAND

Bombers boost percent age

Blake Metclaf-Holt

THE East Gippsland Football Netball League continues to offersurprises,even if everyone knows who are the teams to be taken seriously and who are areal shot of holding up the premiership cup by season’s end. Round 14 had some cracking showcases, not even necessarily from the top sides, as Orbost Snowy Rovers were scared by Lindenow, and Wy Yung and Lucknow showed what’s to be expected come finals action.

The Tigers held off the Magpies to win by two points, 8.12 (60) to 8.10 (58) in Match of the Round.

These sides always get up for games of this note, both playing in multiple close matches that have meant alot for who is positioned best come finals time.

Lucknow had astrongstart at home, with all the play, kicking the only goal for the opening quarter to lead 1.4 (10) to 0.2 (2).

This was flipped on its head just aquarter later, as the scoring increased and the intensity on the field heated up.

Wy Yungheaded into the main break ahead 4.9 (33) to 3.6 (24).

The last half wasback-and-forthtosay the least, as both sides traded exceptional runs of play that had Lucknow move back ahead after three quarters by two points.

Wy Yung found that extra something to conclude and come out two-point winners.

Jack Betts was astar forthe Tigerskicking three goals, while Norman Betts stood strong, followed by Brad Daniel, Jobe Somerville, Bayden Ashwood, Jock Overend and Nate Somerville

of the nightwillfeatureinFriday’s Gippsland Times.

second term to jump out to a69-point lead heading into the main break.

The Gullsactually wouldn’t score form thereonout as Boisdale-Briagalong added aclean 16.8 (104) to close.

There weren’t any extraordinaryindividual goal kickers, but five Bombers kicked three or more goals as well as afurther three with two goals.

Kelvin Porter (threegoals)was best-onground for Bosidale-Briagalong, followed by Thomas Jolly (three goals), Timothy Dessent (three), Nicholas Marshall, Matthew Wilkinson and Daniel Johnson.

STRATFORD continued to cement their finals contention with a16.22 (118)to3.7 (25) win over Lakes Entrance at home.

matched the Blues fightback to hold onto their lead at halftime, 6.4 (40) to 5.6 (36). It was athree goal to two third term that saw the Blues hit the front for the first time to lead by four points heading into the final quarter.

Lindenow, at home,gaveittheir all, but it simply wasn’t enough, as the experienced Bluesheld on after another three goal quarter in trying circumstances.

AThomson SStewart W MaynardB Trinder

(0) GOALS: Boisdale Briagolong: DPratt 9T Leeds 8NSandison4M Rober ts 3T Ruthberg 3JNeille2NSellingsJOsbornM Simmonds.Paynesville:Details N/A. BEST: Boisdale Briagolong: TLeeds NSandisonDPratt JNeilleT Threadgold JPratt.Paynesville:LMullen R Byrne RTavai DWhittingham LCahill KMcCormick

(61)

Lindenow :ZStewar t3BRitchie 2KSmith KHarrisonKBongers.Orbost Snowy Rovers: CDownward2 JSanna JJoiner LBorleyDScott

The be st for Luc know inclu ded Joel Mcnamara, Jack Saulle, Jessie Pescod, JacksonSmith, Stephen Bertinoand Bayley Croucher.

Both sides are tied at awin-loss record of 10-3positionedatsecond(Wy Yung) and third-place (Lucknow) respectively.

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG ran home

173-point winners to claimtop spotonthe ladder,following a27.25(187)to2.2 (14) takedown of Paynesville.

After anarrow 14-point lead after the firstquarter (albeit withquadruple the scoring shotsfor the quarter), the home team Bombers added 8.8 (56) to one-point in the

Thanks to some inaccurate kicking, the Swans only ladbyfivegoals by halftime, 5.11 (41) to 1.5 (11), but that was just the beginning of it.

Stratfordadded6.7 (43) to 1.0 (6) in the third term and continued on with afurther five goalstoone in the last quarter that meant awin wasinthe books.

The Swans sit at 9-4 on the year alone in fourth position, while Lakes Entrance remain with three wins and now 10 losses.

ORBOST held on to asix-point win against Lindenow.

TheCatsgot off to aflying start, leading 3.2(20) to 0.3 (3) after the first quarter, and

BobbyBills and Hamish Nettleton finished with three goals each for OSR, along with two goals from Lachlan and Mitchell Fenner that gave them the balanced scoringneeded Billsand Jarrah Nettleton were standouts for the Blues, followed by Gus Rodgers, Braden Ross, Brayden Fenner and William Walker.

Peter Harrison lit afire underhis team, kicking seven of Lindenow’s 10 goals for the day to claim best-on-ground honours, followed by David Donchi, ToddAlexander,Lucas Lakay, Kyle Holmes and Patrick Alexander. TheBlues sill sit two games back of the top four at 7-6,but ameetingwithfourth-placed Stratfordthisweekend could be thewin that moves the tide for them for an eventualfinals campaign.

Despite remaining winless on theyear, Lindenow put up afight and have shown more in the backend of the season.

Sale’s own Pendlebury to join exclusive club

JUST one more game.

Sale’s Scott Pendlebury will join the exclusive AFL400 game club this week.

Pendlebury has played his entireAFL career with Collingwood, where he is the games record holder and two-time premiership winner.

Pendlebury is expected to suitupfor game 400 againstthe old enemy, Carlton on Saturday night.

The game is settoattract acrowdof90,000 or more, which could be one of the biggest home-and-away crowds of the AFL era.

Pendlebury recently set another record, making it 200 games he has played in front of acrowd bigger than 50,000.

He also registeredhis 10,000 disposal duringthe Anzac Day clash against Essendon earlier this season.

In game 399 last Sunday, the Pies defeated Richmond 14.9 (93) to 9.13 (67) at the MCG.

The Magpies found themselveswell outside the top eight in 13th before entering this fixture, and awin was all they could afford against the bottom-placed Tigers. It was all Collingwood to begin with, as the reigning premier opened up a24-point lead at quarter time.

Pendleburykicked the first goal of the game, thanks to some unselfish play from Jamie Elliott.

Collingwood extended out to 25 points at halftime, as the Tigers couldn’t be completely taken care of.

The Magpies added four goals to one immediatelyafter halftime, which saw the lead balloon out to 41 points.

Pendlebury was subbed out at three quarter time.

Coach Craig McRae admittedthat if it wasn’t forJordan De Goey’s late exclusion,Pendlebury might’ve started as the substitute.

Pendlebury accumulated 22 disposals in three quarters of football, on top of his firstquarter goal, six clearances, and agoal assist.

The Magpiesmoved up into12thonthe ladder with four gamestogo, agameand some percentage outside of the top eight.

Aspecialfeature on Scott Pendlebury's 400th game willbeshowcased in Friday's Gippsland Times.

AFL

400 CLUB

432 -Brent Harvey(Nor th Melbourne)

426 -Michael Tuck (Hawthorn)

407 -Shaun Burgoyne (Por t Adelaide/Hawthorn)

403 -Kevin Batlett(Richmond)

400 -Dustin Fletcher (Essendon)

399 -ScottPendlebury (Collingwood)

Stratfordheld its 2014 premiership reunion last Saturdaynight.Pictured is Swans 2014 premiership coach Peter Morrison andcaptain Jarryd Clohesy.Afullwrap

Photo: Liam Durkin

TomHayes

NORTH GIPPSLAND

Sport

Bulldogsbarkup the right tree

BEST: Heyfield: TMarchesiT Birss RMcMillan BWoodland MVan Der ZwartK Graham. Yarram: BMotton CBruns SRendell MClavarino JMcfarland LEarles

Woodside: DFarmer3BStainer 2ZRichards 2JFythe 2RPepper JWilliams J Kennedy RFoat JHicks JMorgan. Cowwarr:ASaunders 2KStamers MJohnston. BEST: Woodside: JHicks CWhiteoak JFythe JWilliams JMorgan AJanssen. Cowwarr:CCook J Davison KHenderson SAlexander LBourkebHood

YYN3.0

(69)

(27)

GOALS: YYN: DMacdonald 5JKeyhoe 3JMassese LRees BClymo.Rosedale: WLogan 2B McConnell SFox BEST: YYN: DBath JMassese JDeVirgilio DMacdonald DShellcot BDyson

Rosedale: LStuckey JDiamond DBarnett RDiamond TNorthe RAtlee

7.8 11.15

2C Whitehill Glengarry: JHodges 2MRyan. BEST: Sale City:C Whitehill BMcKay OWaugh DMcGuiness T Carstairs MEvans.Glengarry: JHodges MRyanCMitchell THarris BTruin JLee

(13) GOALS: Woodside: DMckean 7CHanning 2BReed 2BAskew ADean. Cowwarr:RFerguson JMoon. BEST: Woodside: DMckean ADeanSLothian RMissen AWalpole CWhiteoak Cowwarr:D Websdale DCooper DVeale AMasut WSwanMConduit

6.5 8.6

Sale City:CJohnson 4BCunningham 3LMooney 3JMain JSandemanA Heatherington. Glengarry: LNoble 3DOates DBalfour BEST: Sale City:N IerardiLBirdC Johnson BCunningham AMcClelland CPonton. Glengarry: TMay LNoble LWhitehead Z Christensen SBurgess NPeel

6.7 11.8 15.9 (99)

YYN: MGore4 DKeyhoe 3M Glibanovic 2LSummersgill 2EDeCarli HPaulet AAnderson SGore. Rosedale: BReid JMurraySCallahan BEST: YYN: EDeCarli DWalshe AAndersonJ Redman OBudge DKeyhoe. Rosedale: WMurrayNO’Connor LLewis JMurrayBReid LLossberg

Heyfield: JReid 4CRonan 2JChristian. Yarram: LEarles 2J Apiata LRendell CEarles BEST: Heyfield: BMeliJChristian JHanrattyJ Mcdiarmid JReid CDwyer.Yarram: LRoberts L Earles CEarles JSheedy RMcAlpine WBrunton

5.6 6.7 11.7 14.11 (95)

0.1 0.1 1.1 4.2 (26)

GOALS: Woodside: DHarrison5J Vanderveen 2A Janssen 2T Hall 2D Taylor AFrancis R Hinkley.Cowwarr:ADomaille CMitchellHDunstan BCooper BEST: Woodside: JMattern T Hall AJanssen DHarrisonR Anderson. Cowwarr:BEenjes HJohnston CCox DMartin

ROSEDALE 5.9 12.16 18.21 24.25 (169)

YYN0.0 1.0 1.1 1.1 (7)

GOALS: Rosedale: LSpeairs 14 HPettie 3N Heathcote2 JReid 2JBruceCMissen AMurray. YYN: HRussell. BEST: Rosedale: HPettie LSpeairs JPlunkett HBerryNHeathcoteD Tulloch. YYN: JKaschke HRussell NWhiteT WhiteSGrixti JBoyes

(149)

Sale City:DCarstairs 6NRand4B Wilson 2C Ward 2J Wells2FMcCarthyZ Bird KPritchett OMooney RWilson JHislopR Wells.Glengarry: Details N/A. BEST: Sale City: RWilson BWilson NRand FMcCarthyD CrowsonC Ward. Glengarry: FRowley LTaylorJ

TomHayes

ONEstepcloser to finals.

Withone more step comes one moretwist. Only threegames remain on the run-in to finals, and two sides traded places in vital positions on the ladder, with one going in and one coming out.

The battle for first remains atight one, as does the battlefor third, withonlya matter of percentage the difference. Of course,first place gets the first week off in finals, and the top three are granted asecond chance. Realistically,only six teams remain in the hunt for the finals (top five), and as we continuetoprogress, it becomes clearer and clearer as to who will be playing in those finalfour weeksofthe season.

 YYN maintained third place.

The Jetswelcomed Rosedale to George Bates Reserve, taking care of business 11.3 (69) to 4.3(27).

YYN beganthe more positive of the two, kicking out to an 11-point lead at quarter time. They continued to push further ahead in the second termaswell, with 3.1 (19) to onegoal.

With four goals up their sleeve going into the second half, YYN were confidently dispatching Rosedale, who’s finals hopes were all but ended the weekend before.

Two goalsapieceinthe third quarter made it difficult for any sort of Blues comeback, as the Jets maintained their four-goal lead. Theyfoundanother gear in thefinal quarter, kicking away justalittle further, addingthree goals to nonetowin by seven goals

Dylan Bath had aday outfor the Jets, leading the wayearningbest-on-ground honours. Alsofeaturing was Jai Massese, JamesDeVirgilio,Dean Macdonald, Darcy Shellcot, and Blake Dyson.

Five goals for Macdonald moved him nine goalsclearofYarram's Josh Swift for the league goal kicking. With favourable fixtures upcoming in the final three weeks, it will be hard to see anyoneelse on top of Macdonald unless afreak sequence of eventsoccurs.

For Rosedale, Luke Stuckey, Jay Diamond, Declan Barnett, RohanDiamond,Thomas Northe, and captain Riley Atlee were named among their best.

YYN shouldbeable to stave off the advances of Heyfield for third spot, and the Jets will be favourite going into their remainingthree games.

As for Rosedale,iftheir finals hopes weren’t binned after last week, they certainly would be now. With the bye in Round 18, the Blues have justtwo games remaining, one winnable (against Cowwarr), one not so much (Woodside).

 TTU can’tbestopped.

They probably weren’t expecting to be stopped at the weekend either.

The Bombers hosted Churchill, and got over the linecomfortably, 11.17 (83) to 6.6 (42).

Wet and wild conditions resumedthroughout the game, makingitdifficult to break any sort of momentum that the Bombers created.

The home side set themselves up for victory in the first half, before letting off the accelerator in the second.

TTU charged out to afour-goal lead at quarter time, thanks to adominant display before therain ruined the surface.

The game became locked at ends when the raincontinuedtofall,makingitdifficult to forge any sort of comeback for the Cougars.

TTU added another 4.4 (28)toone behind in the second quarter, which prettymuch put the game to bed

Facing a51-point deficit at halftime in the wet wouldn’t have been idealfor Churchill.

But they didn’t go down withoutafight, and despite persistentweather, the Cougars didn’tlet things getworse.

Churchill won the third and fourth quarters respectively but were nowhere near getting themselves awinning score.

The margin reduced to 47 points at three quarter time, beforethe Cougarstooka one-goal chunk outofthatasthe final siren rang.

Mitchell Mustoe, Hayden Willaton, Flynn Shields, JustinSavige, TrentHourigan, and FrazarBrouns were best forTTU. Chris Williams,AshleyDiCiero,Jordan Fenech, Nathan McRae, Tom Sevenson, and Joseph Whykes led the way for the visitors. TTU remain on topwith agame in hand overWoodside.

Just like Rosedale, if theirseason wasn’t over last week, it certainly is now for Churchill, who need arealistically impossible formula to make finals.



SALE City areleaving no stone unturned on their hunt for afinals berth.

The Bulldogs have surged in thesecond halfofthe season,finally findingthemselves withinthe top five.

They looked dangerous earlier in the season, getting closetoWoodside, then eventually beating them the second time around. The Bulldogs have waited all seasonfor their moment.

Sale City entered the top five after a14.19 (103) to 3.6 (24) win over Glengarry at home.

Unfortunately, the Magpies weren’t given muchofachance in this fixture, as the dominance of Sale Cityrecently had overpoweredtheir ability to makeany impact.

But knowing the finalsequation,the Bulldogs weren’t going to let anything get in their way.

Sale City put any speculation of an upset to bed as early as possible, putting Glengarry to the sword in the opening term, having10scoring shots to two.

Although the Bulldogs only managed 4.6 (30), that would still be more than what the Magpies would eventually go on to score in theentire match.

Glengarry only managed 1.1 (7) themselves in the opening term, but up until halftime, it was all red, white and blue.

Sale City added 3.2 (20) in the second to Glengarry’s three behinds, blowing the lead out to 40 points.

The second half was scarily similar to the first, as the score just about doubled on either side

Sale City managed one more point than they did in the firstquarter, kicking4.7 (31) in the third, while Glengarry did alittle extra, kicking two goals.

Despite the improvement by the Magpies, they still foundthemselves at adeficit of 59 points with aquarter to play.

In the final term, Sale City entered the top five in style, adding 3.4 (22) to two behinds, to close out 79-point winners.

Helping them over the line was Cooper Whitehill, Brad McKay, Ostin Waugh (three goals), captain Daine McGuiness, Troy Carstairs,and MitchellEvans (four goals).

For Glengarry, Jet Hodges, Michael Ryan, Callum Mitchell, Thomas Harris, Ben Truin, and Jesse Lee were in the best.

 WOODSIDE keptthe minor premiershipracealive.

On the road to Cowwarr, the Wildcats madesure they madenomistake, defeating the Saints15.13 (103)to4.3 (27)

The win bringsWoodside closer to Traralgon Tyers United in the race for top of the ladder.TTU has agame in hand, and will probablysnap up the minor premiership, but the more pressure that Woodside applies can’tbea bad thing.

Just likeSaleCity, Woodside did the heavy lifting early to disable any sort of upset from Cowwarr, starting with a dominant first quarter showing,kicking 4.3 (27) to one behind.

Althoughnot knowing it at the time, Woodside registered Cowwarr’s fourquarter score in the opening term on their way to victory.

The visitors addedanother 3.4 (22) in the second term, while Cowwarr got on the board with 2.2 (14) for themselves, as Woodside ledby34points at halftime

Conditionsappeared to help the visitors in the second half, at least enough for them to realise they were over the line.

Cowwarr kicked theirfinal scores of the game during the third term, adding two goals, while Woodside went on atear to add 7.3 (45), puttingthe game well out of the Saints’ reach.

The raining conditions in the region

might’ve put ahalt to scoring in the final quarter, as Woodside could only putone more goal on the board as they walked away 76-point winners.

Josh Hicks, Cameron Whiteoak, Joh Fythe,Jai Williams,Joshua Morgan, and Adam Janssen were positives in the win for Woodside.

Dan Farmerstruckback with three goals, moving him to fourth on the goal kicking tallyfor theseason.

For Cowwarr, Connor Cook,Jackson Davison, Kurt Henderson, Sean Alexander, Lee Bourke, and Brady Hoodwerehighlightsindefeat

Woodside are now just 1.92 per cent shy of first place, with TTU ahead, both with 12 wins.

With the bye next week, Woodsidemay fall agame behind as TTU play their game in hand against Yarram awayfrom home.  THE outcome of Heyfield versus Yarram affected both sides at the weekend.

Despite there being aclearanobvious winner, this game could be the one that decides the topfive.

Heyfield claimedthe fourpoints at home, defeatingYarram convincingly, 15.7 (97) to 5.3(33)

It appeared that we had agame on our hands in the early stages, as Heyfield only took an 11-point lead intothe firstbreak

The Kangaroos would soon see the benefitsoftheir effort, launching amassive seven-goal to two second quarter, blowing the Demons out of the water, and out of the top five

The 42-point deficit that the Demons faced was going to be too hard to come back from, especially as the conditions worsened aroundthe region.

Heyfield had it all to play for, and needing more percentage for their own sake, they weren’t going to hold back on the visitors. The lack of clear conditions potentially gave Yarram the upperhand, due to the fact it stopped such ablowout.

Bothsidesadded one goal each in the third term, but Heyfieldremained ahead by 44 points.

Heyfield broke the shacklesagaininthe final term, finding time to kick four goals, leaking one to Yarram, on their way to a 64-point thrashing.

Thomas Marchesi was instrumental for the Kangaroos, as was Tyson Birss, Robert McMillan,Brayden Woodland, Max Van Der Zwart, and Kyle Graham (three goals). For Yarram, coach BoadieMottoncould hold his head high. Also in the best was ChrisBruns, Shem Rendell, Matt Clavarino, Jake McFarland, and LachlanEarles Sittingsecond placedinthe goal kicking for2024, Josh Swift waskept goalless, and is now nine goals shy of top spot for the individual accolade.

It just wasn’t the result Yarram needed to remain confident for the rest of the season, fallingout of the top five intosixth If they had lostbyamatterofafew kicks, then maybe they wouldn’t feelsofar off the pace, but unless they can regather and get backonthe right track, it appearsasthough they will lose their last three games (TTU, Sale City, YYN), and badly too.

For Heyfield, the win holds them in good stead for apotential double chance. But the Kangaroos are in asimilar position to that of Woodside, as third-placed YYN has agameinhand.

The Jetsmight just be expected to win their final three games (Glengarry, Churchill, Yarram), which would leave Heyfield agame short if they win their final two games (Gormandale, TTU). Nonetheless, Heyfield are just 3.03 per cent shy of thirdplace at themoment.

GORMANDALE had the

Ea gl e ener gy

Dessent deliversfamouswin

LiamDurkin

DOM Sheed eat your heart out.

Of the 240 goals Brad Dessent has kicked for Sale, the one he kicked last Saturday might just be the most important to date.

In scarcelybelievable scenes at TerryHunter Oval,Dessent nailedaset shot from hard up against the boundary line at the 26-minute mark of the lastquarter, seeing the Magpies to afamous win over Traralgon 10.6 (66) to 9.9 (63) in Round 15 of the Gippsland League.

The build-up and subsequentdrama following Dessent's match-winner was astory in itself.

In front of Traralgon's Pud's Bar, the key forward split the middle,giving Sale afourpoint leaddeep intotimeon.

Surely that wasit?

Further drama was to follow, as this time, a deliberate out of bounds was called favouring Traralgon, who pressed in the driving rain while Sale flooded most of their numbers back.

Traralgon had one last opportunity at the 29-minute mark.

on onekick at the 30-minutemarkfromthe exMaroons skipper.

Unfortunately for Traralgon,the shot sailed wide, through for aminor score.

Sale managed to clear from the resultant possession, although not before apile-on in adangerous position inside 50 for Traralgon.

Who else but Magpies superstar Shannen Lange though to intercept the ball in close around the stoppage, to kick the ball clear and kill vital seconds.

The ball then made its way to the middle of the ground, where eventually the siren sounded well past 31 minutes.

Hudson Holmes was best for the winners, while McGuiness, Lange,Dessent (threegoals), Jack Leslie and Jarrod Freeman all did well.

Sale assistant coachShaneFyfedidn't have much to say post game, understandably wanting to get out of the cold.

"Grind all day, boys did well, great team effort," he said.

The win put Sale outright fourth, in aprecarious position of either securingadouble chanceorfacing an elimination final.

It started with Traralgon veteran Dylan Loprese socceringthrough arushbehind that wasn't called deliberate, which then saw the ball taken by teammate Mitch Membrey for the kick out. Membrey played on, but was caught holding the ball by Dessent, who himself had to get around a Loprese shepherd.

Maroonsdefender JoelScholtes was forced to collect the ball from the carpark after it sailed out on the full. His kick from half forward spilled out the back,where Sale defender Jonty McGuiness suffered the unluckyfateofthe ballrebounding off his boot and over the boundary on the full as he tried to soccer it out of danger.

Theballwas now in the hands of non-other than Loprese.

The match had been an arm wrestle for the most part, with only 13 points, 11 points and eight points separating the teams at each break.

Traralgon however led at each change, only to see Sale kick three goals to one in the last term.

Fyfe said the approach for the last three games was simple.

"Try and win every game and see where we get to."

Luis D'Angelo wasbest for Traralgon. He received good supportfrom Loprese, TristenWaack,Jordan Cunico, Scholtes and Max Jacobsen. Waack,aligned withNorthern Bullants in the VFL, needs to play one more game to qualify for finals. More Gippsland League reports -Page 35 Gipp ag M a f fra’s Si e n n a W

With the chance to do as Dessent did, from pretty much the same angle, the game was now riding

Thescoreline belied conditions to some extent, as the Traralgon oval was described as being as "wet as alobsters lounge room" by one Sale official.

Photo: Erika Allen