Gippsland Times Tuesday 27 June 2023

WORKWAYS GRADUATES

RISE OF 8.7 PER CENT

Stefan Bradley

PUBLIC transport costs are set to rise forall Victorians on July 1, justmonths afterV/Line fareswere capped to align with metropolitan rates, the state government has confirmed.

From next month, the daily fare cap will increase to $10, and $5 for concessions, across the state.

On aweekend or publicholiday, daily faresare capped at $7.20 and $3.60 for concessions.

The government said these changes line up with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). However, the new prices, which represent an 8.7 per cent increase, are above the rate of inflation.

COUNTRY CHAMPS

SPORT

State governmentMinister Lily D’Ambrosio told reporters on Friday that there was afare freeze in 2021 and an increase below CPI in 2022.

“Theincrease that went up last year wasbelowCPI and thatwas in recognitionofthe fact thatcost of

livingpressuresare quite significant for Victorians,” she said, defending the hikes. “And this year we’vedelayed the introduction of the fare adjustment -the fare increase -bysix months.”

The governmentsaidthe delay also allowed the cheaper regional fares to be implemented quickly.

The announcement comes lessthan three months afterthe government implemented theirelection promise to cap regional public transport fares in-line with metropolitan fares.

As of March 31, daily fares have been capped at the current metropolitan fare of $9.20or$4.60concession, while on weekends or public holidays, fares are capped at $6.70 for afull fare or $3.35 for aconcession per day.Fares cover around one-third of the operatingcost of Victoria’s public transport system. Public transport fares are subsidised, andthe government said annual fare rises are necessary to continue to support and improve the network.

Regional spokesperson for the Public Transport Users Association (PTUA), Paul Westcott said the announcement was asurprise.

“Normally we get advanced notice of a few weeks. It’s usually awonderful New Year'spresent. Overeightper cent is higher than we’ve had for some time,” Mr Westcott said.

“The size of the increase is unusual. V/Line is still extremelycheapsince the fare cap was introduced (in March).

“Town busesinTraralgon have increased for the first timeIthinkin about seven years.”

Victorian Greens Transport spokesperson,KatherineCopseyMLC,said the government had “no justification” for the hugeriseinMykifares, while fellow Greens MP Sam Hibbins said the increased fares would worsen inflation.

“Urban transport fares is ameasure used by the ABS to calculate the inflation rate. By raising Myki fares above inflation,the Victorian Labor government is actually making it worse,” Greens

member for Prahran, Mr Hibbins said. “Governments should be lowering public transport fares for everyone, not stinging peoplewho arealreadyfeeling the pinch.”

Agovernment spokesperson said they “know that many Victorians are dealing with cost of living pressures”.

“That’s why we're ensuringMetro and regional fares continue to be the same price into the future and we'll continue to provide arange of discounts and concessions so that the cost of travel is fair for all Victorians," the spokesperson said.

“Since the introduction of the regional fare cap,Victorians have savedmillions of dollars -travelling from the regions or exploring every corner of regional Victoria.”

Meanwhile, the Gippsland Line has continued to see trains replaced with buses(‘bustitutions’) as partofthe government’s ‘BigBuild’ project to improve the line’s reliability.

Continued page 3

Photo: StefanBradley

Calls to raise criminal age

THE Law InstituteofVictoria (LIV) has acknowledged the state government’s commitment to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 14 by 2027, but is also urging the government to heed the call of the experts and make the changes now without exception.

Raisingthe age of criminal responsibility

to 14 has been along-standing position of the LIV.

The governmenthas announced it intends to immediatelyraise the ageofcriminal responsibility to 12-years-old next year, with plans to raise the age to 14 by 2027.

The LIV, along with other legal, medical and childexperts,has longcalled forthe age of criminal responsibility to be raised to 14-years-old,inline with medical evidence which shows that children undergo significant cognitive development at this age.

“The LIV has been consistent in its position on this that the age of criminal responsibility should be raised to 14 immediately and withoutexception,"LIV president Tania Wolff said.

"We urge the government to continue its show of leadership by implementing this reform now."

This is also the minimum benchmark set by the UN and has been recommended by numerous reportsand submissions, including areportreleased by the Standing Council of Attorneys-General last year.

The LIV says any move to raise the age of criminal responsibility should be accompaniedbyappropriate resourcing and support.

“Investment in holistic supports for vulnerable children and their families is vital. This includes early intervention programs, and diversionary measures to ensureyoung peoplecan stay out of the criminaljustice system," Ms Wolff said.

“The reality is that there is aclear link betweenthe childprotection systemand the criminaljustice system. We need to do more for thesechildren and their familiestokeep them out of the criminal justice system and to keep our community safe."

TopSEC advisor steps down from role

By Philp Hopkins

THE former chief scientist,AlanFinkel has resigned from his role as an adviser to the State Electricity Commission, while the SEC’s chief executive warned energy prices may rise.

The Australian Financial Review reported that Dr Finkel had quit his role advising the SEC, amid criticism by energy experts that plans for the re-established body lacked detail and did not have enough capital.

Premier, Daniel Andrews, and the Minister for the SEC and Energy,LilyD’Ambrosio,have promised that the SEC, which willbebased in Morwell, will bring down prices.

The SEC’s inaugural chiefexecutive, Chris Miller, alsotold the Australian Energy Weekconferencein Melbourne lastweek that it was still searching for its first project, amid growingconcerns investments have dried up and that Australia is unlikely to reach its emission reduction targets.

Mr Millersaid the energy transition couldcause arise in energy prices.

“Gettingto95per centrenewables in Victoria will require alarge uptick in billed rates”, he said.

“There’s awhole lot of different views on what the price forecasts might be, but we’re just focusing on what we can control, which is that first investment process and bringingoncapacity as soon as we can.”

Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron said the state government’s ill-conceived plan to bring back the SEC was unravelling.

“The SEC’s own interim CEO said that energy prices willrise, yet Daniel Andrews and Laborare unashamedly sticking to the bald-faced lie that the SEC will drive prices down,” he said.

“What Victorians have is aPremier who is so arrogant and so self-serving that he doesn’t even listen to his own experts, and they are now abandoning the SEC because they know it is nothing but acon.”

Dr Finkel, who led the national electricity market review, the hydrogen strategy and low emissions technology road map, confirmed his departure to the AFR,but only saidhewas leavingfor “personal reasons”.

“There are big challenges ahead but exciting challenges. I’m not suggesting it’s not possible to do. It’s just that it is big and complex,” he told the AFR.

Dr Finkel expressed concerns in February that “you don’t want to crowd out private-sector funding”.

Thestate government committed an initial $1 billion in the lead-up to the May budget to help deliver 4.5 gigawatts of power through renewable energy projects,with the Victorian government to take amajority stake in the projects.

AVictorian government spokesperson said:

“Professor Finkel has made an invaluable contribution to the re-establishment of the SEC, and we thank him for sharinghis wealth of experience, which has contributed greatly to bringing back government-owned energy in Victoria.”

The Grattan Institute’s energydirector, Tony Wood, agreed that electricityprices would rise, the AFR reported.

“No-one who has ever understood any of the numbers wouldever tellyou the deliveredprice of electricity is going to go downunlessyou were going into an election and wantedtopromise they would,”hesaid.

The Australian EnergyMarket Operator estimates the transition from fossil fuels will cost about $320 billion nationally.

Mr CameronsaidLaborhad failed to sell its case for bringing back the SEC at every turn, and recent Public Accounts and EstimatesCommittee hearings and the 2023-24 Budgetexposed yet more holes in its shambolic plan.

“Morethana month after theBudgetwas delivered,weare still none the wiser. The SEC will not bring power prices down, it will not deliver 59,000 jobs, and it absolutelywillnot deliverenough renewable energy to meet demand in time for Labor’s accelerated planned closure of coal-fired power stations,” he said.

“Here in the LatrobeValley, where we have powered the state for more than acentury,the people didn’t vote for this. They see this for what it is: apolitical stunt that ignores commercial realities and will only increase power bills and taxes for Victorians.”

Almost nine months after the SEC plan was announced, Mr Millersaiditwas yet to find its first project, as major renewable investment dries up, the AFR reported.

“We’ve got one shot of gettingthis right,” Mr Miller said.

The Commonwealth was aiming for 82 per cent renewables by 2030, with Victoria’s target 95 per cent by 2035.

Morethan a month after the Budget was delivered, we arestillnone the wiser.The SEC willnot bring power prices down, it will not deliver 59,000 jobs, and it absolutely will not deliver enough renewable energy to meet demand in time for Labor’s accelerated planned closureofcoal-fired power stations.

MARTIN CAMERON Member for Morwell

“Currentprojections are that Victoria needs about25gigawatts of new capacity to reach the 2035 target,” he said.

But Mr Miller pointed to warningsfromthe Australian Energy MarketOperator and data fromthe Clean EnergyCouncilthat shows“a profound and recent slowdown in new financial commitments for large-scaleuser generation projects”, the AFR reported.

“In fact, in the first quarter of this year there were no new financial commitments across the nation despite astrongpipeline of projects,” he said.

Mr Miller said registrationofinterest in investing with the SEC closed in May “and we received a really pleasing response” but added, “we know that our seed capital of $1 billion doesn’t buy 4.5 gigawatts acting alone”.

Police Beat withStefan Bradley

Police interceptedthis white Holden CommodoreinHeyfield on June21, and saythe 23-year-old male driver hada cancelled licence. Photo: Contributed

Car impounded in Heyfield

HEYFIELD Police observed awhite Holden Commodore travelling north along Gordon Street in Heyfield and intercepted the vehicle for aroutine check on June 21.

Police allege that licence checks revealed the23-year-old male driver had acancelled driver's licence.

The vehicle was impounded for 30 days at acost of $1133.

The driver will be summoned to attend courtinrelation to this matter at alater date.

Bairnsdale man charged

DETECTIVES have charged aman after executing search warrantsattwo Bairnsdale residential addresses on Wednesday, June 21.

Police say that officers located and seized replicas including an AK-47 assault rifle, a Beretta handgun and aH&K MP7. The search warrants related to an ongoing investigation into child abuse materials.

A24-year-old Bairnsdale male has been charged with possessing an imitationfirearm and possessing, accessing and distributing child abuse materials.

He was bailedtoappear before Bairnsdale Magistrates’ Court on June 22.

Fork out more for your fare

Modernising irrigation

THE major redevelopment of Gippsland’s most significant irrigation system is nearing completion.

Federal Memberfor Gippsland, Darren Chester is pleased that work is progressing well on phase two of the Macalister Irrigation District modernisation project.

Mr Chester said the $160 million modernisation project started in 2017, will deliver economic and environmental benefits for decades.

“Construction on the latest stage, whichcommenced on the Newry pipeline in January this year is on track to be completed by August, in time for the 2023 irrigation season,” Mr Chester said.

“Southern Rural Water (SRW) is working hard to manage the modernisation project with the federal government providing the majority of funding for this stage, along with contributions from farmers and the state government.

“Phase two will deliver more than 7200 megalitres of water savings and drive vitalinvestment in on-farm efficiencies, improving farm productivity and making the regionmore resilient during dry seasons.”

Mr Chester has thanked SRW staff, along with land owners and contractorsJaydo Construction, for working together to minimise disruptions and maximise benefits for the community.

“The dairy and horticultural sector will obviously benefit from the modernisationproject, but it’s also delivering environmental outcomes, including reduced nutrients entering local streams and the Gippsland Lakes,” Mr Chester said.

“The replacement of the open channel system with new pipelines will deliver watersavingsof 17 per cent for the environment through reduced leakage and evaporation. It’s afantastic long-term investment in the future of our environment and the vital agricultural sector in Gippsland.

“I’m keen to keep workingwith industry and

SRWtodeliver more irrigation projectsacross Gippsland that willimprove food security,care for the environment and boost our region’s economy.”

MORE AGRICULTURE STORIES IN TODAY'S RURAL SECTION -PAGES 19-21

From Page 1

MR Westcott said the PTUA is hearing complaints from people about the disruptions.

“It seems to be going on andon, so passengers are alittle bit over it,” he said.

“Even if they might appreciate the general principle of the Big Build.”

Sinceyesterday, coaches have been replacing trains on the Bairnsdale Line between Traralgon and Bairnsdale, which will continue until the last service on Monday, July 24

These replacements came after weeks of bustitutions already affectingthe Gippsland Line.

The Department of Transportand Planning says the works are for “preparing the Gippsland Line for anew signalling system and rail bridge works in Kilmany as part of the Princes Highway East Upgrade between Traralgon and Sale.”

The departmentsaysthat passengers should allow an extra 60 minutes for the journey by coach and that atemporary timetable is available from the PTV and V/ Line websites.

THE party is over for wondering domesticated felines, with Wellington Shire Council to enforce penalties for cat owners who don't adhere to the 24-hour cat curfew from this Saturday, July 1.

The 24-hour cat curfew was implemented on January 19 this year, with asix-month amnesty to give owners time to put suitable cat containment measures into place at home. Cat owners are asked to be vigilantofenforcement activities commencing. Under the curfew conditions, afine of $192 can be issued if your cat is left wandering outside your property boundary, but owners could be fined up to $577 for continuous breaches, as outlined below:

First occurrence: wherever possible the cat will be returned to its registered owner.

Secondoccurrence: cat returned and warning issued.

Thirdoccurrence:cat impounded and/or infringement issued.

Federal Member for GippslandDarren Chester is pleased with the phase two progress of the $160 million MacalisterIrrigation District modernisation project.

Photo: Contributed

Lock-up your cats or pay up

Council says it's important the cat is registered so it can be returned home.

Council will always try to return alost cat to its home by checkingifit’s registered and has microchip details.

If the owner can’t be reached, it will be taken to the Animal Aid shelter in Sale.

Once there,the Animal Aid team will attempt to track down the owners or find the cat anew family as soon as they can.

If acat is taken to the animal shelter, there will be afee to organiseits release. Fees depend on whether the cat was registered or desexed when it was found.

To learn more about how you can keep your cat confined and happy at home, go to wellington.vic. gov.au/community/cat-curfew or phone council's customer service team on 1300 366 244.

Photo: Stefan Bradley

Turning waste material into energy

Zoe Askew

THE Maryvale Energy from Waste (EfW) project, led by consortium partners Opal, Veolia, and Masdar TribeAustralia, recently signed agrant agreement for $48.2millionunder the ManufacturingCollaboration Stream of the Modern Manufacturing Initiative(MMI) after receiving grant funding from the federal government as part of the Modern Manufacturing Strategy.

The Maryvale EfW facility,tobeconstructed at the Opal Australian Paper's Maryvale Mill in the Latrobe Valley, will be the first of its kind in Australia to recover heat and power fromresidual non-recyclable municipal and commercial waste to provide partly renewable power for large-scale manufacturing.

Veolia, acompany that designs and deploys water, waste and energy management solutions that contribute to the sustainable development of cities and industries, alreadyoperates 65 state-ofthe-art EfW facilities worldwide, and will operate and maintain the Maryvale EfW facility.

Speakingonbehalf of the consortium, general manager of Masdar Tribe Australia, Edward Nicholas said that the grant demonstrates the federal government'scommitmenttosupporting innovative, alternative energy sources for manufacturing.

"The funding support from the Commonwealth not only demonstratesthe importance of this technologyinprovidinga waste management solution to awhole-of-community problem, but it also accelerates our project towards completing the development phase and commencing construction,"

Mr Nicholas said.

The Maryvale EfW facility will provide councils and businesses with acompetitive waste management solution to divert residual waste from landfills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Contracts will be offered on awaste arising basis, enabling councils to have the freedom to pursue future waste reduction initiatives without penalty.

"The social, environmental and economic case to send non-recyclable waste to the Maryvale EfW facility is compelling," Mr Nicholas said.

"With finite capacity and heightened interest, forward-thinking councils are moving quickly to secure this opportunity while it's still available."

The Maryvale EfW project will attract investment capital of more than $600 million to the Latrobe Valley, and the state-of-the-art infrastructure supports the sustainable growth of an innovative energy industry in the Gippsland region. It will create more than 500 jobs in Victoria and Gippsland duringthe construction phase, and support an estimated 450 Victorian jobs once operational, including direct and flow-on.

The Maryvale EfW facility will feature worldclass leading technology that provides reliability, compliancetostringentemissionsstandards, energy efficiency and more than 99 per cent diversionofwaste away fromlandfill consistent with circular economy principles.

The state government welcomed advancements to the Maryvale EfW project, simultaneously implementing acap on the amount of waste that can be heat treated to make energy.

"We welcome the investment and job creation this project brings to the region," astate government spokesperson said.

"As Victoria shifts towards acircular economy, waste to energy facilities can play arole in diverting waste from landfill and creating energy that can be used by industry or exported into the grid."

Acircular economy prioritises waste avoidance, waste reduction, material reuse and recycling, and as part of the circular economy policy, Recycling Victoria: Anew economy, the state government has committed to placing acap of one million tonnes per annum on the amount of waste thatcan be heat treated to make energy.

The cap is designed to prevent over-reliance on thermal waste to energy, as over-reliance has the potential to undermine efforts to decrease waste generation and increase recyclinginthe longterm.

"Victoria will continue to implement new waste and recycling regulations and standardsaspart of themost significant reform to waste and recycling in our state's history," astate government

spokesperson said when asked to provide comment.

Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien also welcomed the recent advancements in the Maryvale EfW project.

"The Maryvale project is an exciting opportunity to safely turn waste productsinto valuable, dispatchable electricity production," Mr O'Brien said.

"It is aproject that solves at least two problems in

one go -disposing of waste and generating baseload power -and it's an important job creator for the region.

"With Labor's disastrous decision to shut down the native timber industry costing up to 200 jobs at Maryvale already this year, good news on the jobs front is always welcome.

"The Maryvale mill is not onlyamajor employer in the region, but it generates significant indirect jobs and economic activity in the plantation sector throughout Gippsland, particularly in my electorate of Gippsland South.The EfW plant will help shore up its future in an environmentofuncertainty created by the Labor government's policies."

Federal Member for Gippsland,DarrenChester said he was pleased to see the project was progressing with the grant consortium partners secured under the previous federal government.

"The signing of the grant agreement for $48.2 millionunder the Manufacturing Collaboration Stream of the Modern Manufacturing Initiative is thenext stageinthis exciting project," Mr Chester said.

"Thefacility will be the firstofits kind in Australiatorecoverheat and power frommunicipal and commercialwaste and support large-scale manufacturing in the Latrobe Valley.

"The proposed Maryvaleproject will be afirst for Victoria, but the technology is well developed around the world, and also here in Australia.

"I took aclose-up look at asimilar facility which is currently under construction south of Perth in Western Australia earlier this year.

"The Maryvale project will take waste that would otherwise end up as landfill and convert it to energy forthe mill and potentially other users," Mr Chester explained.

"Usingadvanced Europeantechnology, it will divert 325,000 tonnes of waste per year from landfill and create an estimated 500 jobs during construction plus 455 ongoing roles.

"This is aworld-class and environmentally sustainable project that will support the economic recovery of our region afterseveral setbacks in recent years. Hopefully, all levels of government in Gippsland will work together with the proponents to deliver this exciting project."

With the environment akey strategic area for the Wellington Shire Council, which continues to take actions to work towards asustainable future, council said it supported the pending Maryvale EfW facilityasanasset to support the region's sustainability and green energy targets.

"Wellington Shire Council is continuing to investigate landfill alternatives for residual waste that provides bestvaluetothe Wellingtoncommunity," aWellington Shire Council spokesperson said.

"Councilacknowledges the MaryvaleEnergy from Waste project as akey opportunity for the region in this regard, and particularly the economic support and jobs that will be achieved from this project."

The MaryvaleEfW project has EPA Victoria regulatory approvals for construction.

"In November 2018, EPAissuedPaperAustralia Pty Ltd with aDevelopment Licence that allows the constructionofaWaste to Energy facility capable of thermally treating 650,000 tonnes per annum of residual Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and residual Commercial and (non-hazardous) Industrial waste," an EPA Victoria spokesperson explained.

"The Development Licence imposes conditions coveringissuessuch as emissions, noise, wastewater, disposal of ash, management of incoming waste, monitoringand sampling, and reportingof monitoring results."

Latrobe City Council has also issued regulatory approvalsfor the construction of the Maryvale EfW facility.

The Maryvale EnergyfromWaste (EfW) project hassigned agrant agreement for $48.2 million under theManufacturingCollaboration Streamofthe Modern Manufacturing Initiative(MMI).

The MaryvaleEfW facility,tobeconstructed at the OpalAustralian Paper’s MaryvaleMill in the Latrobe Valley,will be thefirst of itskind in Australia.

Photo:Contributed

Makingcommunity garden grow

TomParry

SALE’S Seed Community Garden has received a funding boost of $10,000 from the Foundation for Rural &Regional Renewal (FRRR).

The grant was publicly announced on Tuesday, June 20.

Garden facilitator Heather Watts welcomed the announcement, noting that the initiative relies heavily on grants and donations to operate.

“A lot of peopleassumethat we’repart of (Wellington Shire) council and that we’re funded by council,and they’re always quitesurprised when, you know, we go ‘No, we actually have to raise all the money to run this place’,” Ms Watts said.

“It was really good to get that grant,because that will help us run some activities for the next year, and to create those community events and that community connection.”

Ms Watts added that the venue had become “a hub” for numerous groups, having facilitated visits from amen’s support network, disability service providers, aged care homes, primary schools and kindergartens.

“It’sgreat that we’ve got abit more funding to be able to keep that sort of stuff going,” she said. The grant has been awarded as part of FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities program,which provides funding for “small yet vital community needs”.

The latest round of funding saw grants totalling $1,340,387 provided, shared between 131 different initiatives in regional, rural and remote locations across Australia.

“The majorityofthese grants are for practical, infrastructure-related projects thatwill enable local groups in rural places to continue to provide vital services, and ensure community spaces are safe, secure and welcoming,” Place Portfolio Leader at FRRR, Jill Karena said.

“These grants may be relatively small, but they can make amightydifferencetoarural community!”

Located at the Lake Guthridge end of Montgomery Drive, the Seed Community Garden continues to run abusy schedule, having recently hosted a Winter Solstice Celebration on Sunday, June 18. AccordingtoMsWatts, the event saw around 250 people attend.

The venue is “always looking” for new volunteers, and is currently in the process of selecting anew committee for the incoming financial year. Plans for more garden beds and an orchard are also being considered.

For more information about the initiative, visit www.seedcommmunitygarden.orgorsend an email to seedcommunitygarden@gmail.com

 Maffra Indoor Bowls will hold a soup and sandwich lunch tomorrow, (Wednesday, June 28) in the clubhouse, Princess Street, Maffra, beginning at 11.30am and will be followed by indoor bowls from 1pm. Names on the list in the clubhouse or phone 5147 1974 or Joy on 0438 456 875.

 The Rotary Club of Maffra community market will be held on Sunday (July 2) at the Island Reserve, McMahon Drive, Maffra, (at the back of Woolworths car park) from 9am until 12.30pm. All welcome.

 St Vincent de Paul monthly garage sale willbeheldonSaturday, July 1at the Jack Kellystore, 28 Laura St, Maffra, from 9am until 10.30am.

Paving the path to employment: VitalSTEPS program

ATRIALprogram, aimingtoprovide pathways to employment in the healthcare industry, has seen its first round of participants graduate.

The graduation ceremony took place in the Port of Sale’s Wellington Room on Friday, June 23, with WellingtonShire Council Deputy Mayor John Tatterson among those in attendance.

Cr Tatterson praised the pilot program, saying the VitalSTEPSprogram“plays an importantrole in providingcandidateswith support, guidance and skills to move into employment.”

“The Wellington Shire region has anumberofjob opportunities available, and this pre-employment program helpstobridgethe gap and have more people who are enthusiastictowork, employed in the area,” Cr Tatterson said.

Funded by the federal government’s Regional Jobs Fund and led by not-for-profit employment services organisation WorkwaysAustralia,the VitalSTEPS program provides asix-week entrylevel training course to prepare job seekers for employmentinCentral Gippsland Healthcare Service (CGHS).

Project ManagerBec Waterson said the program was made possible through the collaborative efforts of multiple organisations.

“When we first proposed the VitalSTEPS program to Department of Employment and Workplace Relations,they were incredibly supportive and could immediately see the benefits of apre-employment program for non- clinical roles in the healthcare industry,” Ms Waterson said.

“There have been so manypeople involved in

makingthis program work,including Heyfield Community Resource Centre who have partnered withustodeliver the program;the Skills and Jobs Centre at TAFE Gippsland, who kindly donated merchandisetothe program; Adult Community andFurther Education,who have fundedtraining hours; Partners in Training, who developed the units especially for our participants; and the Workways team in Sale who have focused on bringing participants into the course who are keen to pursue arole in healthcare.

“This truly has been acollaborative event.”

One of the graduates, Wayne, had been unemployed for more than 12 months when he joined the program.

At 66 years of age, he had stepped away from his long term career as abutcher due to the heavy physical toll on his body.

“When we approachedWayne about this opportunity, he jumped at the chance,” Ms Watersonsaid.

“Wayne had applied for several jobs over the past year and felt that his age was abarrier for employers even though he had years of both work and life experiencethat he could apply in any workplace.

“He commencedthe VitalSTEPS program with a view to gain employment in gardening and maintenance with Central Gippsland Health Service.

“After the first week of the pre-employment training, and given the opportunity to be exposed to different career pathways and touring thehealth services facilities, Wayne has his ambition set on apathway into aged care.”

Having graduated, the participants will now be taking their first steps into anew career.

“The knowledge and experience that our participants have gained will ensure that on their first

day at work, they’llbeready to make adifference,” Ms Waterson said.

“We’re so proud of them all and immensely excited to see what the future holds!”

Participants from theinaugural VitalSTEPS program at their graduation ceremony on Friday

Photo: TomParry

Seed Community Gardenfacilitator Heather Wattson-site withthe AlanSolomon’s ‘Knowledge Tree’ sculpture.

Photo:Tom Parry

Take chargeofyourskin’shealth

SUNSMART is issuing acrucial call to action for all Victorians,especially men, to prioritise their skin health by conducting regular skin checks following new data which shows less than aquarter of Victorian men check their skin.

The 2022 Summer Sun Protection Survey (Life in AustraliaTM) showed that only 19 per cent of Victorian men surveyed had checkedtheir own skin in the past year.

Health experts warn that without men checking their skin for changes, dangerous skincancers like melanoma can go unnoticed.

The 2021 Victorian Cancer Registry(VCR) reported more than 2800 melanomas diagnosed in 2021, with over 58 per cent (1,650) diagnosed in men.

The VictorianCancer Registryhas also found melanoma was estimated to be the second highest missed formofcancer, following the coronavirus pandemic.

Cancer Council Victoria chiefexecutive Todd Harper AM said that with melanoma, timing and early detection was critical, especially for missing melanoma cases.

“Melanomacan spread throughout the bodyfaster than people would think, so the earlier this type of cancer is found, the better our chances of treating it,” Mr Harper said.

“We know that men are twice as likely to lose theirlifetomelanomacompared to women, because of lifestyle habits including spending moretime outdoors but also being less likely to seek medical advice if they notice changes. That is why we are

urging men to check their skin and take action.”

This urgentreminder from Cancer Council Victoria is part of SunSmartVictoria’s latest ‘Save your skin’campaign, funded by theVictorian

Department of Health, which aims to heighten awareness and empower Victorians to take charge of their skin’s health.

Victorian Dermatologist Dr Edward Upjohnfrom

the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre has been working in this space for more than 15 years and provides specialist training to general practitioners (GPs) to identify and diagnose skin cancer.

“I know that general practice and family doctors would have skin cancer on their radar and want to support their patients to find this type of cancer early,”hesaid.

“For anyone that notices changes to their skin like new spots, changes in colour size or appearance, the first step is to call your local practice and book an appointment.

“In men, melanoma is more commonly found on their back and other parts of their trunk which requires people to proactively check that area using amirrororgetting apartner or friend to check.”

“When you book an appointment with aGP (General Practitioner), you can also ask them to checkyour back andany specific spots you have noticed changes in as well, your GP will also check the rest of your skin including your scalp, another site where skin cancers may not be noticed.

“Itisvital we find the missed melanomas following the pandemic and continue to build everyone’s knowledgeofhow to check yourskin for cancer signs to save more lives.”

If you wouldliketolearn moreabouthow to checkyourskin for skin cancer or for sun protection advice, visit www.sunsmart.com.au/ about-sunsmart/media-and-communications/ sunsmart-campaigns/save-your-skin.

Getting Victorians healthy and back to work

THE state government is helping Victorians get healthy and back to work after injury, building a modern WorkCover scheme that gives security to Victorian workers and businesses.

The stategovernment has said it has always stood withinjuredworkers, supportingthem to pay their bills while they recover and get back to work through WorkCover and its predecessors, dating backtothe CainLaborGovernment’s landmark passageofthe Occupational Health and SafetyAct and Accident Compensation Act in 1985.

But it says WorkCover is fundamentally broken -nolonger meeting the modern needs of those it was designed to assist more than 30 years ago.

Since2010, WorkCover’s claims liability has tripled, mainly driven by the increased costof weekly income support andmany workers staying on the scheme long-term.

The increase is partially driven by mental injury claims -now representing 16 per cent of new claims -which wasnever envisaged when the scheme was designed.

The state government is creating Return to Work Victoria, to help people get back into the workforce as part of new reforms to ensure

Victoria’s WorkCover scheme is sustainable and fit-for-purpose.

Return to WorkVictoria, with input from employers, unions, mental health and occupational health experts, will pilot supports for injured Victorians and thoseexperiencing work related mentalstress to return to work or training pathways.

“We’re modernising the WorkCover Scheme and establishing Return to Work Victoria, so that no injured worker is left behind,” Minister for WorkSafe, Danny Pearson said. Health outcomes for workers are worsethe longer they remain on WorkCover, and can lead to prolonged injury and unemployment -the longer aperson is away from work, the less likely they are to ever return.

To align with other statesand territories, WorkSafe will update the test for workers receiving WorkCover weekly payments beyond two-and-a-half years by introducing aWhole Person Impairmenttest of greater than 20 per cent -to more objectivelymeasurethe degree of physical and mental impairment.

Additionally,workerswho experience stress and burnout will no longerbeabletoaccess weekly benefits fromWorkCover -instead, theywillbe

eligible for provisional payments for 13 weeks to cover medical treatment, while enhanced psychosocial supports will be provided to help them return to work or explore training pathways.

WorkSafewill continue to focus on preventing workplace injuries, and to support workers who make claims for physical injuries and mental injuries arising from workplace harassment, bullying and traumatic events suchasthose experienced by frontline workers.

Planned eligibility changes will come into effect in 2024 and will only apply prospectively. Victorians already receiving WorkCover who have passed the two-and-a-half-year mark will continueunderthe current scheme, will continue to receive payments, and will also benefit fromthe services of Return to Work Victoria to help them get betterand back into the workforce.

Alegislatedreview will take place no earlier than three years after the changes come into effect, to review their operation and assess their financial impact and to ensure the scheme is working as it should and workers are getting the support they need.

Premiums paid by organisations will move to an average of 1.8per cent of remuneration, bringing

Victoria in line withother statesand territories and ensuring that WorkCover can continue to support workers and businesses into the future.

When WorkCover returns to financial sustainability, additional capital will notberepatriated to thestate budget -meaning any savings will go backinto the schemetoensure betteroutcomes for workers, or lower premiums.

Boosted assistance to help workers get back to their job, or find anew position, is good for workers and businesses, helping avoid the negative health impacts of long-term unemployment and helping keep business premiums lower.

Thechanges come after extensive consultation with worker and employer groups. The state governmentwillmovetointroduce legislation later in 2023.

For more information, visit vic.gov.au/ workcover-modernisation.

Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews “There’snothing safe aboutbeing sick –we’re helping workers return to their jobs and making sure WorkCover can support Victorians for many years to come.”

$8.8 million for Gippsland

GIPPSLAND will be better protected and prepared for future natural disasters followingthe announcement of six local projects funded under Round One of the federal government’s new Disaster Ready Fund.

Through the first round, the region will benefit from $8,857,382 in combinedinvestment into disaster prevention, through the federal, state and delivery partner co-contributions.

The fund was an election commitment by the federal government, and will deliver national long-termmitigation funding to help protect communities from natural disasters.

State andterritory governments submitted applications for arange of projects to improve mitigation and resilience, in collaboration with local councils and community groups.

Senator RaffCicconesaidlocal projects included new seawalls, aretarding basin feasibility study, swale and levee construction, andcommunity resilience programs.

“Gippsland faces the threat of bushfires and floodsevery year. These natural disasters are becomingmore common and more dangerous due to climate change,” Senator Ciccone said.

“Through the Albanese government’s new Disaster Ready Fund,we’re investing up to $1 billion in Commonwealth funding over five years to build critical projects that will reduce disaster risk,helptoreduce recovery costs and strengthen communityresilience across Australia, including in the Gippsland region.

“In additiontoinvesting in key infrastructure projects, we will work with skilled business volunteers to deliver facilitated workshops to reduce risk exposure and build resilience to natural disasters.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt said while the federal government

would continue to support areas impacted by disasters, it was critical more was done to build defences, to better protect communities and their regional economies

“We know that every dollar spent on disaster resilience and mitigation deliversareturn on investment to governments and households nine times over,” Minister Watt said.

“Butasa country we invest farmore in recovering from disastersthan we do defending against them, and that mentality has got to change.

“This is about more than just bricksand mortar. We are changing the way Australia deals with natural disasters by planning better for the future to ensure that communities all around the country are better prepared, less exposed and in the best possibleposition to recoverwhen disasters strike.”

The Disaster Ready Fundbuilds upon thefederal government’s commitment to ensure Australia is better prepared for natural disasters.

Over the last year, the federal government has paid out more than $2.7billioninrecovery and resilience programs and payments to support individuals and communities impacted by natural disasters.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) willworkwith each jurisdiction to negotiate funding agreements, with moneytobeprovided as soon as possible from July 2023. Projects must be completed within three years.

There was more than 300 applicationssubmitted acrossall states and territories. Successfulprojects were selected following arigorous merit-based assessment process undertaken by NEMA.

More information on the Disaster Ready Fund, including updates about Round Two of the Disaster Ready Fund, can be found on NEMA’s website.

Skin cancerdoesnot go away just becauseitiswinter

Photo: Contributed

Boost for Aboriginal Vic housing services

THE state government is investing more than $5.4 million to create better outcomes for First Nations Victorians, with expandedaccess to public housing and private rental properties.

Minister for Housing, Colin Brooks announced the funding at the Aboriginal Housing and Homelessness Forum in Melbourne.

From July, the Aboriginal Private Rental Assistance Program (APRAP) will be expanded into four additional areas identified by the Aboriginal Housing and HomelessnessFramework. The existing five APRAP sites across Victoria have delivered many positiveoutcomes, helping AboriginalVictorians secure and maintainhomes in the private rental market.

Now more Aboriginal Victorianswillhaveaccess to this essential support with APRAP services expanded to Goulburn, Outer Gippsland, Brimbank

Melton and Bayside Peninsula.

Under the state government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, 10 per cent of all new social housing be will built for Aboriginal Victorians.

Morethan200 homes havebeenfundedtobe managed by the Aboriginal housing sector, with more under evaluation.

The government has also approved in principle the Aboriginal Public Housing Transfer Management Pilot starting in targeted areas. Aboriginalpublic housing renters will have the option to transfer housing tenancy management from Homes Victoria to aregisteredAboriginal community housing provider.

This will allow Aboriginal renters to receive enhanced culturally safe serviceprovision, greater choice, flexibility, and control over who manages their tenancy. HomesVictoria willcontinue to work

Apply for commmunity grants now

withAboriginal communities to progress the pilot.

Mr Brooks welcomed the announcement.

“We’re delighted to announce funding to expand the essential work of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and the Aboriginal Private RentalAssistance Program, so more Aboriginal Victorians can secure and maintain homes in public housing and in the private rental market across the state,” he said.

“I want to thankour partners at Rumbalara in Goulburn, Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginalco-operativeinOuter Gippsland, the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency in Brimbank, Melbourne and Ngwala in Bayside Peninsula for the tremendouswork they’redoing to create better outcomes for Aboriginal Victorians.”

Raising awareness for PTSD today

TODAY (Tuesday, June 27), is National Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day, and world-recognised expertsintrauma-related mental health research and treatment, Phoenix Australia, want to drive agreater understanding of the condition.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is Australia’s most commonmental health condition after depression, but it’s often left undiagnosed and untreated.

PTSD is apsychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed atraumatic event, series of events or aset of traumatic circumstances.

Adiagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an upsetting, traumatic event such as natural disasters,seriousaccidents,terrorist acts, war and combat, rapeand sexual assault, historical trauma, intimate partner violence and bullying. Exposure includesdirectlyexperiencing an event, witnessingatraumatic eventhappening to others, or learning that atraumatic event happened to a close family memberorfriend.Itcan also occur as aresult of repeatedexposure to horrible details of trauma, such as police officersbeing exposed to details of child abuse cases.

And while not everyone who experiences trauma willdevelop PTSD,aboutfiveto10per cent of Australians will suffer from PTSD at some point in their lives, meaning at any one time, over1 million Australians have PTSD.

Often associated with combat and war, with PTSD referred to as ‘shell shock’ during the years of World War 1and ‘combat fatigue’ after World War 2, it is acommon misconception that traumatic combat and war events are the sole cause of the disorder.

PhoenixAustralia’sdirector, Professor David Forbes,explainsthat PTSD can result from the sudden death of aloved one, witnessing or being part of atraumatic event, or even hearing about a traumatic event happening to aloved one.

“Australians haveexperienced the environmental disasterimpactsofbushfires, floods, drought, and storms,aswell as the impacts of trauma resulting from workplace incidents, family violence, road accidents and emergency services work”,Professor Forbes said.

“Nowmorethan ever, it’s importanttounderstand

how much adversity,stressand trauma can affect our mental and physical health.”

People with PTSD have intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their experience thatlast longafter the traumatic event has ended. They may relive theevent through flashbacksor nightmares; they may feel sadness, fear or anger; and they may feel detached or estranged from other people.

People with PTSD may avoid situations or people that remind them of the traumatic event, and they may have strong adverse reactions to something as ordinary as aloud noise or an accidental touch. PTSD is aharrowing, discombobulating, exhausting disorder with episodes often propelling those diagnosed into afearful and seemingly inescapable nightmare as they relive the trauma far after the fact.

For some people, symptoms of PTSD subside or disappear overtime; others get better with the help of their support system, but many people withPTSD need professional treatment to recover from psychological distress that can be intense and disabling.

It is important to remember that trauma may

lead to severe distress, that distress is not the individual’s fault, and that PTSD is treatable.

PhoenixAustralia’s website hasadvice for people suffering from traumaand resources for the healthprofessionalstreating them, and it also offers online and in-person training for individuals and organisations.

For more information and resources, visit phoenixaustralia.org

If you or anyone you knowneeds help:

Lifeline 13 11 14

Kids Helpline 1800 551 800

Beyond Blue 1300 224 636

Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467

Headspace 1800 650 890

Aboriginal &TorresStrait IslanderCrisis

Support Line 13YARN 13 92 76

MensLine Australia 1300 789 978

Open Arms Veterans &Families Counselling 1800 011 046

APPLICATIONS have openedfor Australia Post’s 2023 Community Grants program, whichfundscommunity-led, localprojects that connect individualsand communities to improve mentalhealth and mental wellbeing.

Eligiblenot-for-profitgroups across Australia canapply for grantsofupto $10,000 to support projects which have the primary purpose of improving mental health and wellbeing in local communities.

Last year’sprogram saw half of all grants, totalling more than $200,000awarded to organisations located across regional and remote Australia.

Australia Post Executive General Manager, Community, Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement, Tanny Mangos, said the wide rangeofgrant recipients from last year’s programdemonstrated agenuine needtocontinue the support of communityled projects.

“Each yearthere is diversity across our community grant applicants and the valuableservices they provide their community, from after-school programs that help teenagers navigate loss, to groups supporting people experiencingloneliness while living or caring for someone withdementia,” she said “Thecommonthread runningthrough all the projects Australia Postsupportsisa primary focus on improving mental health and wellbeing.

“As asociety, we’re making strides towards improving our collective mental health and wellbeing, but communities need bespoke, localised approaches if we want to make a real differenceata local level

“Ourpost officesare at the heart of Australian communities, so we’re deeplyconnected to the impact of locally-led initiatives.

“We’re incredibly proud of ourcommunity grants program and its role in supporting groups as they work to deliverpositive mental health outcomes across Australia.”

Since 2013, 750 projects have been awarded acommunity grant fromAustralia Post, with 70 grants in 2022.

The communitygrants programillustrates Australia Post’s commitmenttomental health, which includes apartnership with Beyond Blue that to date has delivered mental health resources to more than seven million letterboxes across Australia. AustraliaPostisalsoafounding member of Healthy Heads in Trucks; Sheds, which supports mental health and wellbeing in the transport and logistics industries.

Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the community grant guidelines carefully to check eligibility requirements, with eligible community organisations able to apply until 11.59pm on July 2atauspost.com.au/grants.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome in September 2023.

REDISCOVER NEWSPAPERS THE POWER OF

Ideassharedatlocal festival

KatrinaBrandon

FESTIVAL of Big Ideas came to Traralgon recently. Attendeescame to the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre across June 16 and 17.

The overall weekend had 12 sessions and acouple of subsections where speakers would come in and talk about their big ideas, what it takes to have one and the products and businesses they have produced through their big ideas.

Some ideas included batteries made out of seaweed, seaweed being the future, keeping a curious mindsetand that educationmay notbe the most important thing to getyou whereyou need to get to.

The excitement for the publicwas on Friday night when Dr KarlKruszelnicki closed with which Coke or Diet Coke will get you drunk quicker, and that Santa is Supermanwith the science and reasoning behind each.

Before Dr Karl, Steve Sammaritino, ‘one of the worlds most engaging and thought provoking keynote speakers on the future’ according to the festival, stole the stage with his comedic delivery, technological expertise that led him to build afull size Lego car moved by air and that aknowledge about AI and finding amentor might not be where you think there is one.

AttendeeScott Douglas said it was aworthwhile venture.

“I’ve had an amazing time networking, planning my future collaborations and listening to some amazing people and feats being achieved across our region,” he said.

Day twotransformed from big ideas to Gipps Talk, where workwas shown as well as successful opportunities they took, the little to big ideas, advertising the wantfor electric vehicles, and how they are goingtotakeover, and lastly how we need to prioritise mental health more.

Otherthan speakers, there was some outdoor activities that consisted of two men on stilts walking around,a juggling man, kids corner, car show, corner of VR,sweets, food andartsarea with Lego and sewing.

Appeal for better care

BRINGING the very best treatments to women beingtreated for breastcancer is the aim of the latest fundraising campaign from Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH).

“When it comes to performing breast cancer surgery, nothing is more important to the patient than knowing the surgeon has ‘got it all’,” says LRH breast surgeon Kian Jin 'KJ' Tan.

Mr Tan is supporting the LRH appeal for ahighdefinition imaging system, which allows surgeons to x-ray breast tumourspecimens while the patientis still in the operating theatre. The image assists with confirmation all of the tumour has been removed.

“This equipment will enable LRH to offer those undergoing breast cancer surgery amore precise surgery and reduced likelihood of further surgeries,” Mr Tan said.

“It creates lower risk for patients because less time is spent in the operating theatre. This reduces potential risks associated with anaesthetic, infection and bleeding.

“Every time apatient needs asecond operation, it delays the rest of their therapies.This system expediates their care.”

Breast cancer continues to be aburden for women in Australia, with more than 50 women each day

receiving abreastcancerdiagnosis and around 250 Gippslandwomen being diagnosed each year.

LRH Emergency Department nurse and manager Anne Galletti is the face of the campaign, having received abreast cancer diagnosis afew days before Christmas in 2022.

“I’ve never been sick in my life and can’t even fathom being sick,” Ms Galletti said.

“In the ED you see peoplepresenting witha similar diagnosis all the time, but you don’t see this happening to you.”

Imagine then her response when she felt a marble-sizedlump in her breast and acancer diagnosis was confirmed.

“I had myself dead and buried on hearingthe diagnosis,” Ms Galletti said.

“I didn’t knowalot about breast cancer stages or the survivalrate, so Ilooked up the information on theinternet.

“As much as they say95per cent of people (with stagetwo breast cancer) are still alive afterfive years and survival rates are good, Ionly concentrated on the five per cent who weren’t.

“A diagnosis of cancer becomes your whole world. Ileft it until after Christmas to tell my kids.”

Her treatment commenced with acourse of

chemotherapy to reduce the size of the tumour, before surgery to remove the remains of the tumour and some healthy tissue around it.

During the procedure, atissue specimen was sent to radiology for imaging to confirm all of the tumour had been removed.

Ms Galletti didn’t hesitate to support the appeal to purchase ahigh-definitionimaging system to scan patient tissue in the theatre and accelerate

diagnosis and treatment for those that needed it.

As anurse,she understands the benefit of shortening the procedure time for patients but now, as a breast cancer survivor, realises how important it is to have access to quality equipment and services.

Thetarget to purchase the high-definitionimagingsystemis$135,000.

Donations to the LRH BetterCareAppeal can be made via the LRH website: lrh.com.au

Simon Keleher,Ben Gebert,Elena Nauta and Esther Lloyd speak at the Festival of BigIdeas in Traralgon.

Photo:Katrina Brandon

Latrobe RegionalHospital surgeon Kian Jin ‘KJ’ Tanislending his support to the fundraising campaign.

Nurse and breast cancer survivor Anne Galletti is thefaceofLRH’s Better CareAppeal.

Photos: Contributed

Community Achievement Awards open

THE CommunityAchievementAwards started in 2002, and are designed to encourage, acknowledge and reward the valuable contributions made by individuals, communities and businesses throughout Victoria. These awards aim to recognise their success and achievements, which contribute to making Victoria abetter place.

Nominations for the 2023 Victorian Community Achievement Awards are now open, with category winners to receive a prize package worth more than $1500 and atrophy.

Award Categories include:

 Community Hero Award,

 Business Achievement Award,

 Leadership and Innovation Award,

 Community Group of the Year Award,

 Regional Service Award,

 Customer Service Award,

 Mental Health and Wellbeing Award, and

 Tourism and Hospitality Award.

Entry is free, with eligibilityfor entry dependent on the award category, and may be open to businesses,groups, organisations and individuals.

Nominees must reside in regional or rural Victoria for at least two years unless apermanent resident is currently working,studyingorpursuing theirprofession elsewhere, or the nomination activity must be specific to regional or rural Victoria.

To nominate abusiness, group, organisation or individual for the 2023 Victorian Community Achievement Awards, go to: www.awardsaustralia.com

Yarram book inspiration

AFTER almost adecade’s work researching and writing, ‘Becoming Australian’was published in February 2023 by Kara McDonald Davis.

Acomprehensive account of the lives of her ancestors Sophia and James Davis, it was based on documents and letters which had been recently discovered in an old batteredsuitcase stored in the family property’s barnatJack River near Yarram.

The story is set against the backdrop of Dublin’s Italian Operainthe early 19th century, and follows the family’s journey to Van Diemen’s Land in 1831 where they helped establish elaborate musical concerts and apiano importation business.

Following bankruptcy amid the economic chaos of the1840’s, theDavises were partofthe pioneer settlement of Gippsland.

As part of her extensive research, the author first transcribed the letters and documents, then soughttoidentify the writers and people involved.

Atrip to Dublin in ordertopourover undigitised Irish country newspapers in the National Library of Irelandlaidthe background to the first part of the book which is set in Ireland.

SligoCounty’s early newspapers held vital clues to understanding the background to the documents which had survived and been kept by the family.

They also filledinthe mindsetand events of the early 19th century world, which had formed the canvas for the events written about.

Little was knownpreviously of the exclusive scene of the Italian Opera in Ireland and its key players at this time.

In Part 2, the author re-tells the story of early Hobart Town’s musical world, along with some of it’s outstanding identities usingdigitised newspapers on the website Trove along with other primary sources.

The account presents awindow into the world of educated and cultured Irish peoplewho were early emigrants to Van Diemen’sLand during the time it was apenal colony.

The family’s early pioneering historyassquatters on the southern frontier of the Port Phillip colony comprises the final section of the book. Based on letters sent both ways across Bass Strait from the newly established frontier outpostPort Albert and Van Diemen’s Land, it tells of people and events set against the backdrop of the maritime cattle trade market carried out between the two locations.

As apublication based on primary sources,

Bakefor babies… and beds!

‘Becoming Australian’ presents an original version of an aspect of Dublin’s musical world which has been littlewritten about, along with afascinating family story reaching into Hobart’s early musical scene and pioneering Port Albert region.

It has wider implications towards understanding the fabric of early European settlement in Australia and the contributions made in the fields of music, horticulture and agriculture.

Most of all it’s acompellingkind of personal history that is related with attention to truth and historical detail.

The author was raised in Yarram, the daughter of localgrazier Neville Davis and Eril Davis,a Gippsland teacher and later librarian at Yarram High School.

She attended Yarram Kindergarten, Yarram Primary School and then Yarram High School before transitioning to MLC as aboarder for the last couple of years of her schooling.

During thistime, alongwithher siblings, she was very involved in local sporting clubs; Yarram Athletics Club and Yarram Pony Club, competing at state level. She was also amember of the Yarram Tennis Club.

After graduating, Kara obtained acadetship withYarram Standard News and Leongatha Star working for the Giles family covering local news events. After being graded, she left journalism to pursue adegree in English Literature at Monash University.

While Kara brieflyreturned to Yarram, working at the primaryschoolasanintegration aid in 1990, after marrying in 1993 she moved to Melbourne and raised two children.

Duringthis time, Kara qualified as an ESL Teacher and was involved in voluntary teaching work among Melbourne’s Cambodian community for two decades. Duringthis time she and her family movedtoPhnom Penhwhere they lived for acouple of years.

Becoming increasingly interested in the family roots, after turning 40, Kara took up the mantle of genealogical researchfrom her cousin Ettie Pullman, by thattimeelderly.Based on notes gatheredbyEttie, conversations between the two of them and asurprising discovery of an unknown suitcase, she started digging into the family’s past, and the rest is history.

The result of ten year’s research, ‘Becoming

Australian’ was published in February 2023 by Penfolk Publishing.

The extensive research involved in this project is apparent in a29page bibliography along with acomprehensive index.

Divided into three sections: Ireland,Van Diemen’s Landand Gippsland,the story of apioneering family is told over 600 pages and illustrations, many of them colour.

Becoming Australia will be launched this Saturday (June 1) at the St Andrew's Community Centre, Yarram (1 Gipps St) from 2.30pm.

Briagbringing people togther

The chairs can be converted to beds to provide aplace for partners or the birthing mother’s support person to stay overnight. Formoreinformation about the NICF and Bakefor Babies, visit www.newborn.org.au.

BRIAGOLONG Community House has released their Term 3program as part of their push for further community engagement.

As the managerofBriagolongCommunity House, Shae Gilbert said she’sfocusing on bringingpeople together after COVID and helping them connect with services.

“Term 2was really busy. We probablyaveraged around 70 participants aweek. This Term 3program goes throughwhatwe’re offering for the whole term, but we’re also offering pop-up classes,” she said.

“We also have alot of information sessions, so I may get acall from the shire or another community group that we work with. They may want to talk about scams, or about aged care transport. Those little things will pop up this term as well.”

Themostpopular program in Term 2was the watercolour class, which will continue into Term 3. ‘Clubhouse’ will also return, which is aprogram for young girls runbymindset coach Evie Wilson.

The first classesand programs will begin on Tuesday July 11.

Other classes and programsthroughout the term

include crochet; cricut workshops; tai chi; sewing and craft; yoga; cooking workshops; Briag Mens Group; online banking workshop and gardening club. There are many other opportunities for learning and socialising on the program, which can be seen on the Briagolong Community House Facebook page.

After speaking with locals, Ms Gilbert said Briagolong residents are very worried about the cost of living, particularlygroceriesand electricity

“We have an ageingpopulation here in Briag that are struggling to have access to services. So we’re trying to do alittle work around that, and trying to find the best options for people to access medical appointments, especially outside the area," she said.

“We’re also trying to work as agroup of neighbourhood houses to service the whole region as a community.

“I mightoffersomethinghere and Heyfield might offer something differently, so we can refer to different services based on what each (house) is doingand reach abroad rangeofcommunities.”

To book your spot in aprogram or for more information, head to calendly.com/briagolongcommunityhouse or call 5145 5425.

Stefan Bradley

Men’sGroup at Briagolong Community House.

Photo: Contributed

Becoming Australian details thehistory of ancestorsofYarram bornauthorKara McDonald Davis.

Photo: Contributed

Briagolong CommunityHouse manager ShaeGilbert

Photo: Stefan Bradley

New Pixar film

ANIMATION studio Pixar has releasedits latest picture Elemental in theatres.Our resident film buffs Stefan Bradley and Tom Parry went to check it out.

SB: At the time of this chat, my Elemental screening just concluded,whereasTom saw thismovie on opening weekend. My immediate thought is this is avery enjoyable animated film that comes very close to true greatness, but its not up there with Pixar Animation Studios best films.

TP: Having had afew days to consider my own thoughts, there were certainelements -nopun intended -that Ididn’t appreciate. Still, Ientered the screening with low expectations, and left finding it an engaging, warm and beautiful film. Like all good Pixar releases, it deftly blends multiple genres together; but at its core, it’s aromantic-comedy that transfixes you with this unlikely friendship between two characters who couldn’t be more different.

SB: Thetwo likeable main characters are Ember (Leah Lewis), the daughter of immigrants who helps run her family’s small business, and Wade (Mamoudou Athie), acity inspector, both of whom live in aworld where all theelements-water, earth, fire and air -are personified.

TP: Ember and Wade don’t belong to the same group of elements -the former is afire-person, while the latter is awater-person -and their personalities are polar-oppositestoo, whichmakes their relationship even more complex.

SB: Ember’s immigrant backgroundforms akey part of her character and the plot -she recognises the sacrifices her father Bernie (Ronnie del Carmen) made to provide her with abetter life, wants to make him proud, and fears what will happen if she doesn’t. The plan is for Ember to take over the shop, but both she and Bernieare unsure if shes ready.

TP: Thestory also touches upon themes of xenophobia, with Elemental being rather unsubtle with its racialmetaphors; butitdoesexplorethese issues in away which aren’t condescending to its target audience.

SB: What about the animation? In my view, it’s what you would expect of Pixar, and Ienjoyed the cleversight gags relatedtothe characters and their abilities. Not quite as mind-blowing as their previous films, or even other recent animatedworks like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse or Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, but nice enough.

TP: Ifound the character designs to be quite creative,and the settingsweregorgeoustolook at as well. But it’s also worth commending the

soothing, tranquil soundtrack by ThomasNewman, who has beentipped foranOscar nomination come early next year.

SB: Elemental has afantastic score and soundtrack. We’ve seen alot of longmovies recently -just look at Sale Cinema’ssession times and you’ll notice that most of the films being released at the moment are well over two hours in length, with mixed results. So it’s nice to see amovie like this with arun-time of 110 minutes that doesn't overstay its welcome.

TP: Even though it’s close to two-hours long, it feels shorter, and that’s atestament to the filmmakers. Iwould happily have spent another 30 minutes in that world.

SB: It’s ashame that it isn’t doing well at the box-office -ithas so far earned justUS$121 million from a$200million budget. Obviously, Pixar’s parent company Disney doesn’t need any more money, but Ihope that people do watch Elemental in acinema, because it deserves it.

TP: Definitely. Although the film does take a while to find its feet -itrelies too heavily on clichés at first and is slow to develop its characters -once it hit thatsecondact and morphed into arom-com, that’s whenI wasfully on-board, and wasengaged until the very end.

SB: The love-story between Ember and Wade was written very well, and Itend to cringe at most rom-coms. While it’s not at the same level of prestige as other Pixar films like Toy Story, Up or Inside Out,onits own merits, Elemental is a great family movie.

Elemental is rated PG for mild themes, occasional coarse language and scary scenes, and is currently screening at Sale Cinema.

Mentorship opportunity for regional female composers

SCREENWORKS' Screen Composing Mentorship program provides the opportunity for two woman identified or non-binary regional composersto connect with an industry professional, who will support them to develop their skills and showcase their talents

Applications are now open.

Eachofthe selectedparticipants will receive one-on-one mentoring from one of Australia’s most accomplished and respected screen composers, to help them build confidence and capacity composing music for screen content.

At the completion of the program, each participant will receive $3000 to aid them in advancing their screen composing careers.

Screenworksand APRAAMCOS acknowledge the need to address the gender imbalance within the Australian and New Zealand music industry.

To help address the significantunder-representation of women working as screen composers, they will be awarding both of the mentee opportunities to

participantswho identify as woman or non-binary.

This program is supported by the Australian Guild Of Screen Composers.

This is an outcome-focused mentoring program for two early to mid career screen composers, identifying as female or non-binary and living in regional Australia.

Antony Partosand CaitlinYeo will assess the shortlist of applications and choose their mentee based on their application.

The parties will then meet to discuss the needs and expectations around the mentorship. Each of the two mentorship opportunities on offer will be tailored to the specific needs of each mentee.

This could be; astructured six-week ‘bootcamp’ program where the mentee is asked to submit aspecific task for their mentors feedback on a weekly basis or; the mentee seeking feedback on existing project/s from their mentor to enable them to overcome challenges.

Both participants will be required to deliver a

short report about theopportunities that the Screen Composing Mentorship has presented.

Finn Clarke, 2022 Screen Composing Mentorship Mentee, spoke positively of the program.

"I attended the 2022 High Score Game Music Conference, met several of my composing heroes

and spent aweek building crucial industry contacts outside of Tasmania," Finn said.

"I’m so grateful for the financial support from Screenworks to be able to do this, as well as their help with industry connections."

‘Elemental’ is showing in cinemas now.

The twoprotagonistsof‘Elemental’, Ember and Wade.

Images: Disney/Pixar

PROUDLYBROUGHT TO YOUBYTHESE PARTICIPATINGLOCAL BUSINESSES

Crossword Puzzle No.8540

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. In golf, what is another name for one under par?

2. What is Posh Spice’sfirst name?

3. What species of ape has anaturel copper tinge to its hair?

4. What is the alias name of well known bank robber and cowboy William H. Bonney?

TWO POINTERS

5. Into which sea does the Nile flow?

6. Santas Little Helper is the pet dog of which TV family?

7. “I guess Ijust lost my husband, Idon’tknowwherehe went...” arelyrics from which Pink song?

8. How wereBillOddie, Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden collectively known?

THREE POINTERS

9. What has the chemical symbol Zn?

10. What can be aslight movement or acontainer for arrows?

11. Which Greek author was famous for his fables?

12. In nature, what is ared admiral?

FOUR POINTERS

13. Which region of France produces claret wines?

14. Wherewould you find the largest desert in the world?

FIVE POINTER

15. I’ll give you five album names and you give me the band or artist? One point for each correct answer

1. BornThisWay 2. Rhythm Nation 3. Rumours

4. She’sSoUnusual 5. Master of Puppets

HOW DID YOU FARE?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done; 15-22: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement; 0-8: Hit the books.

Target Time No.0164

Howtoplay.

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or morecan you list? The centrelettermustbe included and each letter may be used only once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns,

Sudoku No.0164

Howtoplay...

Fill the grid so thateveryrow and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1to9 Solution page 28

Shower

Daniel Church art exhibition

The Organ Grinder: Review

Tony Dawkins

ISAW avery unusual and enthrallingplay on Saturday night (June 10) written and performed at the StratfordCourthouseTheatre by Clifton Kline: The Organ Grinder Afullhouseenjoyedsomethingvery special and worthy of the raucous applause they gave.

In the apparent absence of the Organ Grinder, the Monkey feels obliged to entertain the audience and so begins the madness.

Thisisa beautifully written script, executed withprecision andconsummate comic timing, albeit punctuated with Kline's own special brand of ad lib audience participation. Manylaughs were had here. Long be protected the "Freedom of Speechlessness" for those audience members unable or unwilling to play along.

IN recognition of NAIDOC Week, Bond Street Event Centre is hosting an exhibition by First Nations artist Daniel Church.

Born in Liverpool, New South Waleson DarugCountry, Church followsmanyofthe art practicesfromhis ancestors -parents, grandparents and great-grandparents included. His wood carvings represent the passing of songlines and cultural sharing.

Nowbased on GunaikurnaiCountry here in Gippsland,Church practices woodcarving, acrylic paintingoncanvas and timber sculpting, includingtimber birds, furniture pieces, full-size archways, shields and walking sticks.

Church’s work Pelican Mudjin (Family)

2022 waschosenfor display at the National Gallery of Victoria’s Melbourne Now exhibition. He also wonthe 2021 Lechte Corporation Acquisitive Award.

The openingofthe exhibition will take place this Sunday (July 2) from1pm to 4pm. Entry to the event is $15 and includes an artist talk and light supper. All artwork on display at the exhibition is available for sale. The exhibition will be displayed at Bond Street Event Centre until July 23. For more information, visitwww.bondstreeteventcentre.com or call 5182 8770.

Iloved the endlessly-dragging chain that simultaneouslybrings the Monkey to the audienceand keepshim prisoner as he moves about the stage.

The Monkey's lostcup introwas atreat,and the Monkey's pride in his job and new uniform -bloomers, sleevelessvest and red hat, with collar and chain was palpable and endearing. His certainty and pleasureabouthis identity as the Organ Grinder's Monkey was to stand in stark contrast to all the other things that he "didn't get".

So Monkey launches in to tell us about all the things he doesn'tget. "And the Organ Grinder says"isarefrain often repeated, and Monkey would give us the organ grinder'ssayingsand wisdom."Feareatsthe Soul" still ringsinmyears

He repeated thisprocess of examination with the audience over various topics. Manhood, Climate Change. Growing up. Tattoos. Cancel Culture. Morphing, whateverthat is. And on and on he went,asking the audience to help him out and make sense of it all.

The Philosopher, the precocious child, and let's not forget extroverted attendee Julie, whom Kline enjoyed to begin with and then dismissed curtly with: "This is not the Life of Julie show."

These audience members were not scripted; Kline just juggled them into the show. The audience loved his gentle,but cruel-to-be-kind examination of their input.

Climate Change was one thing the Monkey did get, and he says deadpan: "Climate Change. Iget that. If you don’t get that you’re afool." No deniers

made apeep as far as Icould tell.

And then somehow, we get to discussing the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse for which the monkey has no understanding at all.

Monkey gives us arough account with some audience help, but he's been having strange thoughts and disturbed sleep.

Then we snap from an overhead spotlight to a floor light and Monkey casts giant grotesque shadows as he is suddenly in the eye of the apocalypse, in full flight, riding the Horses around and around in circles while ranting and raving about all that he does not know.

The horse prop is adeceptively simple child’s toy stick with ahorse head and mane attached. This is the most guttural and vivid 30 seconds of comic madness, the likes of which will not easily be forgotten by those who witness it.

There is alittle bit moretruth-telling and eventuallyit’stimetocheck on the Organ Grinder again. Monkey has been doing this anxiously all night-"Maybe Ibetter go wake him" -and his light comes on and playtime is over.

An outstanding play written and performed by Kline.

Tony Dawkins is the co-owner of Glenmaggie Wines and akeen theatre enthusiast.

First Nations artist Daniel Churchisto be featured at Bond Street throughout July. Image: Contributed

Clifton Klineinhis originalone-manplay‘The Organ Grinder’.

Photo: StratfordCourthouse/Facebook

Perfect Position - PerfectPosition Low Mainten nce LowMaintenance

This neat and tidy two-bedroom unit is perfect if you are looking for aconvenient lifestyle close to the centre of town, being only afew minutes’ walk to the main street and shopping complex.

In recent years this unit has had, fresh paint, updated kitchen, new electric double garage door and new guttering installed, and at time of listing new carpets in the lounge and bedrooms.

The home’sspacious lounge has asplit system air conditioner.The updated kitchen and dining is functional with plenty of cupboard and bench space, and is full of natural light from the large window and sliding door,which leads to the tidy and private back yard.

This home contains two bedrooms with built in robes, afunctional bathroom and good-sized laundry.Adouble garage provides offstreetparking.

If you are looking at scaling down, starting out, or beginning your investment portfolio this well-located unit is worth an inspection.

Briefdetails fdetails

Property: Lowmaintenance two-bedroom unit

Address: 2/68 Market Street Sale

Price: $349,000

Contact: Julian McIvor, Wellington Real Estate, 0428 084 622

Alex Scott are proud to present to the market this highly productive 372 acre farm over two allotments. Held within the family for around 70 years, these heavy carrying Latrobe River flatshave consistently turned offprime vealers and heavy bullocks. Astrong fertilizer and lime history has enhanced the performance of this perfect combination of river frontage country and high ground.

The home block consists of 250 acres in one title, with the original farmhouse and asecond dwelling which has seen some tasteful improvements inside. The turnout paddock of 122ac is located just acoupleofhundred meters up the road. Both parcels have solid cattle handling facilities. Shedding for Hay and Machinery is on both properties as well. Town water is connected and provided to all except one paddock across both farms. They are well subdivided into manageable paddocks and have laneways for stock movement. Agents say it is rare to be able to secure such a solid holding of land so close to atown, and STCA, there is the possibility of longer-term residential development. The property includes:

 2xHouses;

 Hay Shed;

 Solid Cattle yards;

 2xBitumen road frontages;

 Town water;

 Electricity connected at home block and available at Turnout;

 Large Latrobe River frontage, with substantial high ground out of flood Zone, and;

 693mm Annual average rainfall. An opportunity not to be missed for the discerning buyer seeking productive land in atop location.

Briefdetails fdetails

1km to the CBD -Position Perfect!

Welcome to 15 Simpson St, a family home with an inviting front façade,ample space and versatile features via agenerous floor plan and extension.

While this home has been cherished over the years, it presents awonderful opportunity for those looking to add their personal touch. With some thoughtful renovations and upgrades, you could transform this property into acontemporary haven that suits your style and preferences. Alternatively,you could move straight in and enjoy thewellmaintained home.

The master bedroom includes an ensuite with vanity,and shower over spa bath plus agenerous walk-in robe. The two additional bedrooms are spacious, and both feature built-in robes.

The main living and dining areas provide a comfortable space with plenty of natural light, high ceilings and lovely herringbone flooring throughout. Ducted gas heating and split system will provide year-round comfort. The functional kitchen has suitable bench space and plenty of storage.

The rear extension is avaluable feature, with asunroom providing an abundance of natural light and serving as aversatile space, as well as agames room that offers enough space for leisure activities and entertainment. The additional bathroom and second kitchen at the rear provide flexibility and the potential to create aseparateliving area or accommodate extended family and guests.

The rear yard Is low maintenance, providing even further space via alarge bungalow, perfect for ahomeoffice, studio, or countless other opportunities. There is agardenshed and existing greenhouse area. The home also features asingle-car garage.

Situated in Sale 3850, this property benefits from aconvenient location close to schools, parks, shops, and public transportation, ensuring easy access to essential amenities. Don’t miss the opportunity to make15 Simpson St your new home. With its flexible layout, abundance of living space, and versatile rear extension, this property offers endless possibilities for comfortable and convenient family living. Contact us today to arrange aviewing and start envisioning your future in this wonderful home.

8Inala

Road,Glenmaggie

PriceonApplication

Briefdetails

Address: 15 Simpson Street,Sale

Price: $539,000

Contact: Julian McIvor, Wellington Real

2Bath4 Car

•Thisspacioushomeisset perfectly on 4acres andonly ashortwalk from the shores of LakeGlenmaggie

•The homehas twolarge living areas which both take in the views

•Each of the bedrooms aregreat sizewithBIR’s and themaster bedroom features WIR andensuite

•A well appointed kitchenleads out to asubstantial deck which overlooks thebackofthe land

•Toadd to theversatilitythereisanexcellent mancave perfectfor entertaining,a barn stylegarage/ workshop with adjoiningcarports and established vegetable gardens andchookhouse

Lot2Drapers Rd,Heyfield

$650,000

4Bed 2Bath

•Ifyou’relookingfor that perfect familyhome on 1 acreclosetotown, then thisisfor you!

•This solid brickhomefeatures plenty of room forthe familytoenjoyinside and out.

•Four bedrooms, twobathroomsand astudy or potentially afifth bedroom

•Other features include: Dining and formal dining room, Sunken livingareaalong with asecond family room,Wood heaterand splitsystem

•Outside features include: One acre,Lockupshed, Carport, Outdoor area

Please notethatthis is an untitled1-acrelot,settlementexpected 01/01/2024 with early access through alicense agreement

Kristie Feenstra0400

from Sale,10minutes from Esso Longfordplant and just ashortdriveto the NinetyMile beach

•Set amongst an established garden is this weatherboardhome, consisting of three bedrooms and twobathrooms

Beach property with Rural Views

Located in the popular town of Seaspray with the beautiful 90 Mile Beachdown the road, this property offers you the opportunity to buy your own seaside retreat or permanent home on alarge 1240m2 corner block.

The property has an inviting front façade with well-maintained gardens and lovely rural views. The interior provides good living space, while the secure backyard has good shedding, outdoor entertainingand a generous amount of room for the kids and pets to run around the immaculate yard.

Property features:

 Cosy living room, with imitation gas log fire and ceiling fanfor year-round comfort;

 Large kitchen with adjacent dining. The kitchen is well equipped with plenty of bench space and ample drawersand cupboards;

 Twolarge bedrooms with built in robes;

 Central bathroom with shower and separate bath;

 Fabulous outdoor entertaining, fully enclosed with wood heater -a greatplace for familyand friends to gather;

 Outdoor bathroom with vanity and shower,perfect for post-beach use;

 Twocar garage/workshop with plenty of storage space, and lined extra bedroom;

 Twopermanent caravans in the backyard, perfect for guests, and;

 Single carport.

Ag education investment needed to build state’s futureworkforce

THE Nationals are calling for significant financial investment in agricultureeducation to inspire students to pursue acareer in the industry.

Speaking in State Parliament last week, Nationals Memberfor Eastern Victoria Region and Shadow ParliamentarySecretary for Education, Melina Bath, said Victoria needs atargeted funding program to increase participationinsecondary schools agriculture curriculum.

“Victoria’sagriculture industry is predicted to be worth $100 billion by 2030 and we need an educated and skilled workforce to match, however Victoria has avulnerability in itsagricultural workforce supply chain,” Ms Bath said.

“To continue producing worldclass food and fibre, we must ensure students have ‘paddock ready’ practical experiences to complement the classroom theory.

“Modern agricultural careers can be promoted as a‘first choice’ option if schools are equipped with the right facilities and qualified teaching staff.”

JERSEY Australia’s Dairy’s Finest showcase sale highlightedthe growingdemand for Jerseys, with astrongincrease in prices.

The sale average of $5800 with atop price of $13,000 represented asignificant increase on the 2022 result of $5461 with atop of $9000.

JerseyAustralia members also dugdeep to aid cancerresearch,raising $44,000 in honour of member RobertBacon,who died from cancer earlier this year.

The showcase sale and charity auction was held as part of Jersey Australia’s annual meeting and conference at Coffs Harbour recently.

The top price of $13,000 was achieved by Lot 2, pick of thepair of twodaughters fromthe 2023

International Dairy Week champion, Impression LR MB Vanahlem Festive-ET from sellers M& LFlemming,LukeRandleand F&DBorba. It was purchased by aNew Zealand partnership of Bellbrook Holsteins and Rachel Stewart.

Equal second highest price of $10,000 was achieved by Lot5Loxleigh Valant Bella EX91

At arecent Victorian Farmers Federation Agriculture in Education Forum, where Ms Bath presented, agricultureeducators raised their concerns at the lack of secondary schools teaching practical courses.

Only 35 secondaryschools in Victoria (5.8 per cent) offered Units 1/2 in Agriculture and Horticulture (Year 11) andonly 26 schools (4.3 per cent) offered the Unit 3/4 in Agriculture& Horticulture (Year 12).

In-school Vocational Education and Training (VET) statistics for 2021 showed 1470 students started studying aCertificate II in Agriculture, but only 265 students or 18 per cent successfully completed it.

Ms Bath said it was important to expose studentsfrom non-farming backgrounds to the exciting opportunities in modern agriculture and horticulture.

“Extensive hands-on experiencetodevelop the skills involved in soil and plant biology, animal

breeding and welfare, machinery operations, weed and pestcontrol and aquiculture is needed,” Ms Bath said.

“Given Victoria has 25 per centofthe nation’s farms, (the government) should be focused on developing an education system to reflect the importance of our food and fibre production.

“Agriculture education in Victoria will only be enhanced when our studentshave increased access to qualitypractical opportunities in the curriculum, andthiscan be achieved through state government targeted investment.”

Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Emma Kealy said the stategovernmenthad paid little care or attention to Victoria’s looming agriculture workforce “crisis”.

“To build our workforce for the future, the Andrews government must invest in opportunities for secondary school students to pursue their interestsinagriculture and horticulture,” Ms Kealy said.

Jerseydemand is growing

Max, sold by the Akers family and purchased by Broadlin Jerseys, and Brookbora Eileen 141, sold by the Bacon family’s Brookbora Jerseys to John Lindsay from Hastings Jerseys, Wauhope.

Thethird annual Dairy’s Finest showcase sale attractedstrong in-person and online audiences.

The sale was managed by Mitch Flemming and Daniel Baconand conducted by Dairy Livestock Services(DLS) auctioneer Brian Leslie and online throughElite Livestock Auctions.

Mr Flemming saiditwas agreat resultthat reflected the growing popularity of Jerseys.

“It was avery pleasing result,” Mr Flemming said.

“I watched it onlineand there was alot of bidding activity, which was great to see.

“Jerseys are growing their stakeinAustralian dairyand this continued interest augers well for

their future.”

In aseparate charity auction, nearly $44,000 was raised for the Peter McCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne as atribute to long-standing Jersey breeder Robert Bacon.

Robert, with wife Sandra and theirfamily, farmed the world-renowned Brookbora Jerseys at Tennyson in northern Victoria. Brookbora Jerseys has been aregular top herd on genetic merit, champion breeder and exhibitor at major shows across Australia and abreeder of many elite bulls in AI.

Theauction was organised by Luke Wallace and Mitch Flemming and Dairy Livestock Services and Elite LivestockAuctions and catalogue designer Hayley Boyd donated their services.

Mr Wallace said Robert left alasting legacy on

the Jersey breed and wider dairy industry both within Australia and across the globe.

“Brookbora helpedtostrengthen belief in Australian Jerseygenetics here and overseas,” Mr Wallace said.

“We had terrific support from AI companies and breeders who donated on very short notice to this charity auction for acause that everyone supports andterrific supportfrombidders.”

The auction featured all donated lots, including embryos and semen, paintings, prints, accommodationvouchers, calf feed, calf coatsand anumber of lotsfromthe Dairy’s Finest sale also donated a percentage of thesaleprice.

The annual meeting and conference were hosted by the Beautizone Jersey Cattle Club.

Duringthe annual meeting,LisaBroad was returned as president and Geoff Akers was appointed vice president to replace outgoing member Brian Wilson,while ConGlennen was welcomed to the board.

Nationals MLCMelina Bath is seeking atargeted funding program to increase participation in the agriculturecurriculum at Victorian schools.

Photo:Contributed

Good Life Farm helping youth

THE Good Life Farm goes quietly about its business in the Yarra Valley, on the outskirts of Melbourne. But its business is not growing organic rhubarb or producingfree-range eggs.

No, this little farm is dedicated to rearing

healthier kids, in the hopes of helping them lead abetter life.

It's called the GoodLife Farm, andit's been doing this work with troubled young people for 18 years on 'the sniff of an oily rag'.

Demand for Good Life Farm's animal-assisted learningand therapy programs is growing fast.

Another 'farm' of one to three hectares is needed near abig regional centre or on the outskirts of Melbourne.

Why afarm? The simple answeristhat the animals help disengaged kids settle.People who work withanimals know this well.

The young people build accepting relationships with the animals through feeding,grooming, holding and talking with them. Animals don'tmake conditions; they don't make demands; they don't blame or bully.

The farm environment, with its open space, trees, ponds and creeks, helps them calm down. The dedicated psychologists and youth workers at the Good Life Farm use the farm experiences to help the kids manage their emotionsand to get backinto their education so they can go back into school or on to vocational training and then to jobs.

Many youth workers and teachersinthe eastern suburbs of Melbourne know the Good Life Farm

Rural podcast now available

ARE you an aspiringAgTech entrepreneur? Or would you like to know how the state government supports the local AgTech ecosystem?

AgricultureVictoria'snew podcast series 'AgTech Innovators' exploresthe unique pathways available to Victorian start-ups, howthey can best attract investmentand what global trends,opportunities andbarriers they should be aware of.

Agriculture Victoria's AgRIN Project Lead, Mark Sloan said the groups was concentrating on informinganybody outthere with an innovative idea, and giving them apathway to access and get their ideas offthe ground

"Agriculture Victoria sees its roleashelping nurture currentexisting AgTech start-ups and also help to further build our ecosystem in Victoria so that we have the capacity in the state to continue to be innovative," Mr Sloan said.

"We talk to awide range of people involved in growing this industry and share with the listeners their journey, the things that worked, and the things that didn't."

In Episode 1ofthe series,Agriculture Victoria talks to Maxie Juang from SproutX and hears about their Business of Agriculture Program, funded through apartnership between LaunchVic and Agriculture Victoria.

You can subscribe and listen to AgVic Talk wherever you get your podcasts.

well, from Boroondara, Monash and Manningham, as well as the YarraRanges, with many saying it's the best program available for troubled kids.

Eighty per cent of the young people who attend the farm's learning and therapeutic programs have serious mental health issues.

Ayouth worker with the City of Monash told the localRotary groupthat, of all the programs they refer 'problem' kids to, the Good Life Farm makes the most positive improvements in their lives.

With the disturbances goingoninthese kids' lives -broken homes, being in residential care, getting into trouble with the police and going before the courts, violence and abuse, drugs and alcohol -the farm providessafety, arefuge.

A12-month-long evaluation of the Good Life Farm program has been completed, demonstrating the outstandingbenefits of this unique form of animal-assisted learning and therapy.

Land on along-term leasehold or as agift is essential for Good Life Farm's continued work.

"Weknowwehave aterrific program," aGood Life Farm spokesperson said.

"Growing our capacity to take in more kids is our biggest challenge."

To learn more about Good LifeFarm, email Good Life Farm business manager Bronwyn Pitman at goodlifefarm@iinet.net.au

Alternatively, you can visit theirwebsite,https:// goodlifefarm.org

Horse PICregistrations

VICTORIAN horse ownersare being asked to take asimple step for aspecial friend and register for aProperty Identification Code (PIC).

Agriculture Victoria Manager Livestock Traceability, Ben Fahy said PICs provided horse owners an extra level of protection during emergencies.

"If there’s aflood, fire or disease outbreak, we may need to reach out with concerns specific to your animals, or for emergencyrelief and recovery activities within an impacted area," Mr Fahy said.

"Getting aPIC is quick, easy, and free via the Agriculture Victoria website -all that’s required is yourcontact details,the number of horses and the parcels of land where they’re kept."

All Victorian properties with livestock, including horses, are required by law to have aPIC, an eight character code essential for contact and traceability purposes.

"PICsare required whether you keep ahorse for recreational, agricultural or competitive purposes -even for your brood mare in the paddock," Mr Fahy said.

"When horses are on agistment away from home, it’s essential that those properties have PICs, which can be applied for by the horse owner or service provider."

Based in Warrnambool, Katrina Routson is oneofAustralia’s largestFriesian horse breeders, and said that PICs provided peace of mind in case of emergency.

"If abushfire comes through someone would know that we have animals," Ms Routson said.

"PICs also provide an excellent way to receive key updates from Agriculture Victoria to horse owners."

Livestockowners should regularly review theirPIC details,and update any changes that have occurred such as change in property address, species of livestock or changes to personal details.

When livestock are offered for sale, given away or bartered via online or print media, the PIC of the property at which the livestock are kept must be included in the advertisement. Register for aProperty Identification Code at agriculture.vic.gov.au/horsepic or call 1800 678 779

Gypsy andJJare twoofthe three resident sheep and goats on theGood Life Farm.

Photo: Contributed

Ag students getting readyfor future

THE state governmentisoffering grants to TAFEs and learning providers across Victoria, modernising training for the next generation of Victorian agricultural professionals.

Minister for Agriculture, Gayle Tierney recently

announced the 13 projects approved for funding as part of the government’s $15 million Agriculture TAFE and Training Fund.

The funding willdeliver projects that support new curriculum design, deliveryand equipment

to embrace emerging technologies and incorporate Aboriginal agricultural knowledge and practices.

“We’re making sure the next generation of farmersisprepared with the tools and skills they need to respondtothe ever-evolving demandsofmodern agriculture,” Ms Tierney said.

“These grants will provide amajor boost to our agricultural training providers and are just one way we are encouraging more Victorians to pursue afuture career in agriculture.”

The grants deliver on the findings of the Future of Agriculture Training Review released in 2022, which determined collaboration across industry and the education sector was essential in positioning agriculture as acareer of choice moving forward.

Grants of up to $2 million were availableto eligible Victorian TAFEs and training providers to help them deliver new or revamped training to ensure students have the skillsrequired for a future career in agriculture.

Among the organisations approved for grants was South West Institute of TAFE, with $1.99 million towards astatewideAgricultureTech SkillsCentre.

The centre will feature state-of-the-art software and technologies,providing advanced professional development and learning opportunities for students and teachers.

Melbourne Polytechnic will receive $1.44million to integrate the latesttechnologies in education to remediate degraded land for agriculture,

Beef industry has reasontocelebrate

AUSTRALIA'S beef industry is taking its commitment to sustainability to anew level, with the AustralianBeef Sustainability Framework (ABSF) 2023Annual Update reportingadecrease in carbon emissions, more forest on grazing lands, and, for the first time, the setting of ambitious goals to guide investment and attention into the future.

The ABSF Annual Update is ayearly scorecard and snapshot of the industry's sustainability performance, reporting on several priority issues to monitor progress against recognised standards and metrics. This year, in its sixth edition, it has increased the number of indicatorsto54, spanning the four foundational themes of best animal care; environmentalstewardship;economic resilience; and people and the community.

ABSF Sustainability Steering Group (SSG) Chair, Mark Davie,saidthis year's annual update showed significant progress and opportunities for further improvement.

"There is plenty to celebrate; Australian Beef businesses produced over 20 billion meals this year and progressed on nearly all our sustainability metrics," Mr Davie said.

Australia's red meat industry has set atarget of being carbon neutral by 2030, known as CN30, and progress towards this goal is evident, with net CO2e emissions in 2020 of 45.21Mt, 64.07 per cent below 2005 levels.

"This is an outstanding resultand the lowest recorded to date, given anumberofcontributing factors," Mr Davie said.

"Methane emissions in 2020 were the lowest recorded,primarily due to areduced national herd, and carbon sequestered in on-farm vegetation was the highest ever recorded."

Encouragingly, as much of Australia broke drought across 2020 and 2021, and the national herd increased,satelliteimagery shows forest on grazing land in the same period increasedby 780,000 hectares.

"This demonstrates the responsiblemanagement of naturalresources by our producers,further underscored by the removal of primary vegetation also at arecord low," Mr Davie said.

Fresh data has flowed from an updated Life Cycle Analysis, the first in four years, which calculated 400 litres of water were required per kilogram of live-weight gain for raising cattle, adecrease of 18 percent. The improvement comes from reducing reliance on irrigation, reducing lossesassociated with the water supply and aslightreduction in water consumption through improved genetics.

The Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement coming into force promises to reinforce the economic resiliency of the industry, witha significantincrease in tariff-free beef access in year one and atransition to tariff, quota and safeguard free tradeovera 15-yearperiod.

Advances have alsobeen made in animal welfare, with thefeedlot industry increasingthe percentage of feedlot capacity with access to shade to 63 per cent and on track to reach its goal of 100 per cent by 2026.

AwarenessofAustralianAnimal Welfare Standards for Cattle has reached 100 per cent for thefirst time, and the mortality rate of stock on live export ships continues to improve. According to reports tabledinParliament in 2022, cattle mortalityduring sea voyages has more thanhalved in two years to arecord low of 0.05 per cent.

"Theonlytwo negative trendswereadecline in water efficiency by processors due to reduced throughput and areduction in ground coveracross semi-arid regions due to adrought," Mr Davie said.

Mr Daviesaidthere are also challenges to overcome, such as finding an appropriate metric for on-farm biodiversity while work is underway to develop an indicator of mortality on domestic road transport.

"We want to make sure our consumers and stakeholdersunderstand there is more to do, but the supply chain is serious about continuous improvement when it comes to sustainability; when you buy Australian beef, you are investing in asupply chain that can have apositive impact on 50 per cent of the Australian land mass," Mr Davie said.

Chair of the Red Meat Advisory Council, John McKillop, said setting goals was anatural evolution

for the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework.

"Australia's global competitors have either set or are currently developing, sustainability goals for beef," Mr McKillop said.

"Tostaycompetitive, to keep building trust with our consumersand maintain our favourable access to markets, we need to continue to be proactive on sustainability and place metrics around what it is we want to achieve."

After aprocess of stakeholder engagement, development and consultation,the Australian beef industry has committed to thefollowingfive goals:

*TheAustralianbeef industry is guided by the five domains of animal welfare. The industry provides all cattle with an environment in which they can thrive in accordance with these domains;

*By 2030, the Australian beef industrywill demonstrate its net positive contributions to nature;

*The Australian beef industry will achieve net zerogreenhouse gas emissions acrossits production and processing sectors by 2030;

*The value of Australian beef industry products and services doubles from 2020 levels by 2030, resulting in aprofitable and resilient industry, and;

*TheAustralianbeef industry is trusted, attractivetoa diverse workforce, asource of pride and belonging, andmakesa positivecontribution to the food security of Australian and international communities.

Mr McKillop said the next step would be to set targets to track progress towards achieving the five goals.

"It is important to show our progress, even if we fall short because sustainability is about constant improvement in an evolving ecological, economic and social setting," he said.

"The industry has made greatstrides over the past decade or more and established its sustainability credentials.

"We should be proud of what has been achieved, but we need to keep improving. As an industry, we need to prioritise what work needs to be done to be world-leading in our sustainabilityperformance and clearlydemonstrate to our stakeholders we are serious about it."

horticulture and areas related to conservation.

The program aims to equip studentswiththe skills theyneed to utilise land that would have previously beendeemedunsuitable for agriculture as aresponse to the increased shortage of farmland in Victoria’s peri-urban fringe.

Other organisations gettinggrants include Wodonga Institute of TAFE, Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, AustralianCollege of Agricultureand Horticulture, Federation University Australia, Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE,Gordon TAFE, ChristieCentre Inc.,KreatePty Ltd, 4UpSkilling Pty Ltd,Velisha Education Group and Rural Industries Skills Training.

The Agriculture TAFE and Training Fund is part of the FutureAgricultureSkills Capacity Fundestablished underthe state government’s $50 million Agricultural College Modernisation Program, which supports more Victorians to pursue careers in agriculture.

Photo: File

Garage Sales • MIMI 100% first time in Sale. Exotic,

BRIAGOLONG

45-47 Forbes St Briagolong. Bric-a-brac, pears prints, lamps, clothing, hats, kitchen ware, tools, books, stands, plants, farm seeder. Sat July 8.

FAWN MALE

Jack Russell Pomeranian.

DOB: 1/4/23, Micro. 9530010006645579, Source No. MB146897, $1500. Phone Jan Crawford, Longford 0401 230 900.

KELPIE PUPS

Public Notices

GARDEN RENOS

Yes we weed, mulch, trim, prune, remove unwanted plants and trees. We also build fences, orchardcovers, cat palaces, lay turf and more. We are qualified, experienced and we love what we do. We are the garden renovators. Call Mike 0478 636 088.

MAFFRA MARKET

Enquiries 0409 030 918.

Must

SERVICE TECHNICIAN

Our Maffra branch of TTMI has an exciting opportunity available for amotivated, hands-on individual to join the team as aService Technician Mechanic either workshop based or in field service.

This is afull-time role with immediate start. If you are enthusiastic, hardworking, and have the drive to get the job done right, we want to hear from you.

Please send your resume to careers@ttmi.com.au

We seek committed and enthusiastic individuals to join our school in the following roles:

● Finance Operations Officer

Ongoing 0.8FTE to full-time

● General Duties GAP Assistant

Fixed term to mid December full-time

● Learning Assistant St Anne's Campus ongoing 3days per week

For more detail on the requirements, duties and responsibilities of these roles, visit theemployment page of the Gippsland Grammar website at careers.gippslandgs.vic.au

ST THOMAS' PRIMARY SCHOOL, SALE

Afantastic opportunity for suitably qualified Early Childhood Educators to join our Centre on a Casual basis.

Our growing team is seeking enthusiastic & dedicated early childhood educators to join us. We cater for children aged birth to twelve years and provide arange of additional services to our children and families in the community.

Due to continued growth and expansion of our service we are looking to build on our already established team of highly motivated, professional Educators to continue our journey in agreat workplace environment.

Our Educators must be passionate about achieving quality outcomes for children, their families and our community. You must be highly motivated, enthusiastic and have proven Early Childhood skills. If you would like to work in a community run not for profit centre who value and appreciate their staff, then this is the centre for you!

Some of what we offer:

● Above award wage.

● Excellent facilities and resources.

● Ongoing professional development training.

Successful applicants must:

● Hold aqualification in Early Childhood Education and Care or be working towards a qualification in Early Childhood Education and Care.

● Be passionate and enthusiastic about Early Childhood Education.

● Have strong leadership, communication and organisation skills.

● Have aWorking With Children Check.

Further enquiries to the Centre Director on 5144 6952

Applications close Friday June 30, 2023

This school community promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Administration Officer -Finance

Applications are invited from suitably experienced persons for the part time 0.6 FTE role of Administration Officer -Finance. (Hours and days negotiable with successful applicant).

This is an Education Support Employee Category BLevel 2position under the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited Schools and Secretariat Agreement 2022.Employment is ongoing tenure.

The successful applicant will have a demonstrated commitment to Catholic education and to the safety and wellbeing of children.

The successful candidate will be appropriately qualified and/or experienced, demonstrate enthusiasm and ability to provide the appropriate expertise in arange of administrative abilities, and be able to provide assistance to the Principal whilst supporting and respecting the ethos of the school and its environment.

The successful applicant will be subject to an Employee Working with Children Check and a National Police Record Check.

Start date: July 17th, 2023 (TBC). Adetailed position description and application requirements are available by contacting St Thomas Primary School, Sale.

Principal: Anita Little, Email: alittle@sttsale.catholic.edu.au

Applications close: July 4th 2023

ST. THOMAS' PRIMARY SCHOOL, SALE

This school community promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Teaching Position

1FULL TIME ONGOING YEAR 5/6 TEACHING POSITION (1.0FTE)

Applications are invited from suitably experienced persons for the above educational role. Job share arrangements will be considered to fill the vacancy.

This role is aposition under the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited Schools and Secretariat Agreement 2022.

The successful applicant will have a demonstrated commitment toCatholic education and to the safety and wellbeing of children. They will possess the skills and abilities to provide students with arich and rewarding educational experience and will embrace a collegial, collaborative, team-based approach to teaching and learning.

The successful teaching applicant will hold current Victorian Institute of Teaching Registration.

For further information regarding this position and an Application for Employment form please email: reception@sttsale.catholic.edu.au

Applications and resumes can be forwarded to Mrs Anita Little, email: principal@sttsale.catholic.edu.au

Applications close Tuesday June 27, 2023 at 4.00pm. GP1659033

Please contact the centre to receive aposition description and email your updated CV to brendon.ronan@gumnutselc.vic.edu.au

Gumnuts is committed to child safety

Gumnuts acknowledges the Gunaikurnai people as the traditional custodians of the and of where Gumnuts now is. We payrespect to their Elders past and present and emerging.

Want

Situations Vacant • Deaths • Deaths • Deaths • Deaths • Deaths • Funerals •

LAMBOURN, Joseph William. Joe /Joey

17/4/1970 -23/6/2023

Loved youngest child of Alex and Maureen Lambourn (both dec.). Loved brother of Heather, Mary, Maureen, Allen (dec.), Albert, John, Joan, Marj, and Charles. Loved partner of Keryn, and friend to Ryan. Back safe with his beloved Mum

Cars •

TOYOTA SEDAN

2002, 12 months reg., second new motor put in, INE-WY5 $2000. Phone 0422 377 861.

Motorcycles

STREET GLIDE

2012, exc. con., Screamin Eagle air and cam, been on Dyno, 22,000km, $21,000. 0428 619 971.

BAILEY (nee Grant), Lorna June.

Aged 86. Adored mother of David (dec.), mother-in-law to Sharon, Nan Bailey to Jayden, Kyrah and Kyle. Special Nan to Waverley. No words can express how empty our hearts are at this time.

Reunited for eternity with David.

DAVIDSON, John James. "Jack" 21/7/1934 -21/6/2023

Late of Moe.

Formerly of Sale and Loch

Sport.

Loved Son of Tom and Mary (both dec.).

Brother of Aileen (Ginge) and Helen (dec.).

Brother-in-law of Les (Hooks)(dec.),Arthur (dec.) and Paddy.

Uncle Jack of Billy, Peter, Buster,Margie,Ben, Bridget, Claire, Liam, and families.

Gone Fishing

Jack, It's not what Iwrite, It's not what Isay, It's how Iremember you, In my own special way. Reunited with Mum and Dad.

55 years old.

Loved husband of Kara Lee.

Loving father of Jason, Jaim ee-Ros e, and Kaelan. Brother of Michele and Leon. Poppy to Ryhthm.

Our dearest Thane. Here's to the strongest man we know. You fought this horrible disease for so long. Now it's your time to be pain free!

No more pain my darlin'. We're going to miss you so much Thano.

Love you always and ever my darlin' man. Your Whanau X.

De La COUR, Thane.

Thane, Best friend and adored husband of Kara.

Proud dad to Jason, Jaimee and Kaelan.

Founding member of Shake nBake. How can someone so loyal, talented, passionate, cheeky, full of wit and wisdom go so young?

Just 55, we were all meant to grow old and silly together. Abraveand courageous true friend.

My miracle baby brother Joey, you were born a fighter from the start. The little man with the deepest voice. You had apassion for life like no other person l know, alove of ginger cats and big rigs on the road.

Yourpassion never wavered for either. Both will remind us every day that you are here with us in our hearts forever.

Reunited with Mum and Timothy. We have fought our last fight together bub, and you did us all proud.

Love you always. Joan, Colin, and families.

Joey, what atough fight, right 'til the end. The truck shows and road trips we did together will always be remembered fondly. Will miss you, my offsider.

Love your mate, Shano.

LESTRANGE, Lynne. 14/11/1946 -18/6/2023

Passed away suddenly. Loved mother of Adam, Carla and Brendan. Adored Nanny of Jesse, Jake, Hunter, Kaeli, and Sean. Eldest daughter of Alf and Lil Lestrange (both dec.). Loving sister of John and Ann, sister-in-lawto Rosemary and Graham. Loved Aunt to all her nieces and nephews. Reunited with loved ones in heaven.

Forever In Our Hearts. Sleeping Peacefully.

LESTRANGE, Lynne.

Passed away suddenly 18/6/23.

Loved sister of Ann, sister-in-law to Graham. Auntie to Kim, Paul and Rick.

Great Auntie to Brodie, Pret, Mathew and Craig. Great great Auntie to Paisley. At peace. Forever in our hearts.

MARX, Kevin. Of Heyfield. 6/06/1928 -24/06/2023. Aged 95. Kevin Marx, loved father of his children and grand and great grandchildren and his greatest love his late wife Gwen. His family and wide circle of friends are all the more enriched from knowing him and enjoying his gentle andforgiving nature that encouraged everybody to give their best efforts. We will all miss your gentle humor and wisdom dad.

-Robert, Julie, Kerrie, Darren; Cassie, Morgan and Kayden, Jay, Alyce, Nick and Willow. Now you have found peace.

MERTENS, Peter.

DAVIDSON.

Mr John James "Jack" Davidson

PARAMOUNT Studio

2011 24' incl. all standard features plus many extras $43,000. Can sell as package $88,000 with 2007 GXL Toyota Landcruiser, WAC-095. Both in exc. cond. 0403 430 382.

ROMA Eclipse 15', elec. brakes, elec. roof lifter, 2 berth, microwave, good tyres, reg. till Sept., top condition and extras

$17,000. 0418 753 575.

Love Aileen.

Uncle Jack, You lived your life the way you wanted it to be lived. I'm sure Hooks will be waiting with acold one for you.

Always remembered. Billy, Melody, Alicia, Justin, and Isaac.

Passed away 21/6/23.

Loved uncle of Peter, Lindy, Daniel, Tegan, and families.

Rest peacefully Uncle Jack.

Remembered always xx.

Uncle Jack, You lived alife without fuss.

Memories of always a welcome beer, the vegetable garden, fishing/ shooting yarns, fast cars and of course the handshake.

Rest easy.

Buster, Megan, Ruby, Bella, and Tom.

Uncle Jack, The only time saying goodbye is painful is when you know you'll never say hello again.

You have been through so much, with little complaint. It's time to rest now.

Treasured memories. No more "Yes Boss".

Ihope you've got your ear plugs in.

Love Margie xxxx

De La COUR,Thane. Devoted son-in-law of Margaret Cam (dec.), John.

Brother-in-law of Kim, Wayne, Craig and Lana, Brett, Vanessa and their families. Passed peacefully after a long, painful battle. From the Gladman family

DONAHOE, Simon Ross. 18/10/1944 to 18/6/2023

Loved and loving son of Charles (dec.) and Jessie (nee Furphy)(dec.).

Loving husband of Paula (nee McKenna).

Loving brother of Barry, David (Darby), Brenda, Genevieve.

Cherished father and father-in-law of Joanne and Peter; Elizabeth and Shane; Felicity and Jamie; Suzanne and Jason; Charlesand Erin; Madeleine and Nick; Peter and Georgia; Thomas and Veronica. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers consider donating to Interplast BSB:033364 Acc:361633 https://interplast.org.au/ donate/donate-now/

FULTON, Renny Roydon. With heavy hearts we welcomed our sleeping angel Renny Roydon on June 9, 2023. We didn't have to look into your eyes to fall in love with you, And we didn't need to hear you cry to know you loved us too.

You were too perfect for this world.

-Love Mummy and Daddy

-Olivia and Roydon

GRAHAM, Audrey. We would like to express our sincere condolences to David, Jim and family. Heyfield Football Netball Club.

Uncle Joey, lwill always remember tagging along to truck shows with you and Dad, the summer holidays when you would come with us on the train to Melbourne to make sure we got safely onto the next train to Yarrawonga, and all the memories of racing you down the road on foot while you always beat us on your push bike. These are childhood memories lwill forever remember and cherish. You will be missed by so many people. Rest in Peace.

Your niece, Rachael.

Joey,

My strong, determined, independent baby brother, from day one you never let anything get in your way of what you wanted to do, even when things got tough at the end you put up agood fight, one that, sadly, you couldn't win.

Iwill always be proud of you and love you forever.

Reunited with your loving mum -give her ahug from us all.

Until we meet again lwill drink Coke in your honour. Love Smudge (Marj).

Uncle Joey, Thanks for the fun times we had down at the block, riding themotor bikes. It wasn't much fun when you crashed though. Rest in peace. Your nephew, Mike.

Joe, llove you to the moon, beyond andback. Iwill miss you heaps and love you forever. Your loving partner Keryn and our boy Ryan.

Joey, Rest easy my brother. Know that lloved you and always will. Albert, Eileen, and family.

LAMBOURN, Joseph. Joey, your dedication to the community was admirable. Thank you for your support for all our fundraising. Rest in peace. Volunteers, Wellington Community Opp Shop family.

I'll always remember the good times you and Ihad on our trips to Bali. Such great memories. Love Ann

LESTRANGE, Lynne.

14/11/1946 -18/6/2023. Adored Aunt of Debbie. Iwas so blessed to have you as my aunt and also my godmother. As achild Icalled you my "fairy godmother" which stuck ever since. You always knew when I need advice, support or a whinge. You were my rock, my friend, my confidante. Heaven has gained another angel. Love always from Debbie, Michael, Nicolaas and Matthew ♥

LESTRANGE, Lynne. An angel reached down and took your hand. You were gone so quick, but Iunderstand; Your place was ready in heaven above, Iremember all the years we had, with love. Miss you Nanny Lynne. Love Cath, Andy, Ash, Lachy and Ben xxx

Passed away June 24, 2023. We had awonderful association with Pete, through racing and agreat friendship. He was agroup one jockey who rode many winners for us. Our friendship was one to treasure forever. Heartfelt sympathy to all his family. We will miss that smile and laugh. Always remembered, never forgotten, Brian, Robyn Hutty and family.

THOMSON, Lindsey. Esteemed friend of Wednesday Friendly Riding Group. Will be sadly missed.

WHEELER, (nee Asmussen), Dorothy Merle "Dolly"

Passed away June 18, 2023.

Aged 94. Loved wife of Bill (dec.). Mother of Suzanne, Russell, Terry, Neil (dec.), Geoffrey, Gregory, Pamela, and Brian. Forever in our Hearts

Dolly,

16/11/1928 -18/06/2023

Loved Mum of Suzanne and Ken O'Doherty. Cherished Nan of Helen, Carole and Shaun Goodison. Peter and Stephen. Jeremy, Penny and Trevor Dingwall.

Great Nan to Jessica, Michael, Cameron and Hannah Goodison

Annabelleand Ben Gallagher. Tahlia, Sean, Dakotah, Shayla, Caitlin and Ethan Dingwall. Kelly and Joshua Smith.

Great Great Nan to Emily and Charlotte Hennessey. William and Grace Goodison. We will miss your wisdom, advice and your smile but especially your love for all of us.

God Bless Mum Mum, Now finally at rest in "God's Garden'".

Love you always. Greg, Hayden, Amelia, Janae and families. XX

De La COUR.

The funeral service for Mr Thane Riwi De La Cour will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street, Sale at 2pm on THURSDAY (June 29, 2023), followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the CGHS Palliative Care.

FULTON. Aprivate funeral service for Olivia and Roydon's baby boy Renny will be held. Please join with Olivia and Roydon at the Briagolong Hotel from 12 noon

TOMORROW (Wednesday June 28, 2023) to offer your love and support andshare in light refreshments.

LAMBOURN. In accordance with his wishes,aprivate cremation for Mr Joseph William "Joe" Lambourn will be held.

TURNBULL, John Ferguson (Ted). 22/04/1937 -23/06/2023.

Passed away peacefully in his sleep at Sale Hospital after abrief illness.

Loved husband of Sue (dec.).

Father to Naomi and Simon

Father-in-law to Queylyn. Grandfather to Aliesha, Toby and Angus.

Son of Donald (dec.) and Ella Turnbull (dec.).

Brother to Margaret (dec.) and Dorothy (dec.)

Brother-in-law to Geoff and Neville (dec.).

WHEELER, Dorothy Merle."Dolly"

We are saddened to hear of the passing of our long time member, Dolly. Our condolences to her family. From Seaspray Senior Citizens Club.

LESTRANGE, Lynne. In accordance with Lynne's wishes, aprivate cremation will be held. In lieu of flowers, please pay an act of kindness to someone in need in Lynne's memory.

MARTIN, John David. 7/10/1940 -19/06/2023

Passed away at home aged 82 years. Cherished husband of Vivienne. Loved father of David, Susan, and Linda.

MARTIN, John. June 19, 2023. West Sale Bowls Club are saddened to hear of the passing of past Wurruk Bowls Club president and member.

Our thoughts are with Vivienne and his family.

MARTIN. The funeral service for Mr John David Martin will be held at St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral, Cunninghame Street Sale at 2pm TODAY (Tuesday June 27, 2023) followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Council.

Please see our website for livestream details.

MARX.

Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Mr Kevin Marx will be offered at St Michael's Catholic Church, George St., Heyfield on FRIDAY (June 30, 2023) at 1pm. Aprivate cremation will follow.

please call: 5143 9333

For friendly advice on how to place a personal message to a loved one or email: classifieds@gippslandtimes.com.au

TURNBULL. The funeral of Mr John Ferguson Turnbull will leave our Geoff Rossetti Memorial Chapel, 1390 Maffra Road Sale after a service commencing at 11am on FRIDAY (June 30, 2023) for the adjoining Sale Lawn Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend, please check our website or facebook page for details.

GLASS, Aline Margaret.

WHEELER (nee Asmussen). Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Dorothy Merle "Dolly" Wheeler will be offered at St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral, Pearson Street, Sale at 11.30am

TOMORROW (Wednesday June 28, 2023), followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

In Memoriam •

BAILEY, David Clive. 4/1/65 -26/6/03

They say that time heals all wounds, but 20 years have passed since losing you and we still miss you every day. We will never know what our lives would have been like with you in it, but we know there is an empty place within us that can never be filled. Jayden, Kyrah and Kyle.

Passed June 23, 2019. We stood beside your bedside, Our hearts were crushed and sore, We did our duty to the end, 'Til we could do no more. In tears we watched you sinking, We watched you fade away, And although our hearts were breaking, We knew you could not stay. You left behind some aching hearts, That loved you most sincere, We never shall and never will, forget you our "mum." Your loving daughters Jeanette and Suzanne and sons-in-law Graeme and John.

Bereavement

Thanks •

READ (van der Heide), Pia. 18/12/1935 -23/4/2023

Lisa and Geoff, David and Ruth, Kevin and Tanya and families would like to express our heartfelt thanks for the support and love shown in so many ways in the lead up and following the passing of Pia. The hospital visits, flowers, gifts, food, phone calls, hugs and farewell attendance (in person or online) were all very much appreciated. We would also like to thank all who were involved in Pia's care in hospital/home and to Brad and Palma at Semmens Funerals for your gentleness, kindness and compassion at a difficult time. And to the army of family and friends Pia had to support her throughout her wonderful life -we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

TOBIN, Nell.

Ken, Gary, Anne, Robyn and families would like to sincerely thank everyone who sent cards, flowers, messages and who attended our dear mother's service.

Aspecial thank you to Rev. Robert Barnes for abeautiful service celebrating our mum's life.

To Brad Lett and his team for their care and compassion.

To Dr Kelly Seach for her care and kindness over many years. Thank you all.

Woodside firming for flagafter smashing league powerhouse

TomHayes

POTENTIAL finalssides became clearer after Round 11 of the North GippslandFootball-Netball League.

With no real tight outings, the teams to be weary of have only become more frightening to oppose as the pointy end of the season edges closer.

THE secondversus thirdbattle between Churchill and Woodside wasa statement win within the top five.

As predicted, the Wildcats wouldbetough to beat -even at Gaskin Park -asthey have been allseason long.

Afree-flowing first quarter saw nine goals kicked between the two sides, six of those going the way of the visiting team, as they took an 18-point lead into the first change.

Churchill,who had just welcomed back Ben Kearns, would soon be without him again, as he was concussed in thefirst quarter, endinghis game then and there.

Kearns’ absence for the Cougars was impactful and was noticed in the final three quarters.

WoodsidepepperedChurchill’s defence in the second term, but it only granted them three goals (and six behinds), meanwhile Churchillcould only musterthe four scoring shots (2.2) in the second term.

The Wildcatstransitioned theball with relative ease, making it difficult for Churchill to set up a counter if they were to make an intercept.

Ten points were added to Woodside’s leadat the half, and after some words of wisdomfor both sides, theywere set for the second half.

But, it continued similarly to the first half.

Despite some minor tweaks, the Wildcats continued to hitthe scoreboard, while keeping Churchill’s influence minimal.

Another 3.3 (21)to1.4 (10)gave Woodside some confidence as the final quarter loomed.

And just when you thought the Cougars might be due for their own quarter of dominancesomething they would be used to -Woodside had another blinder.

The Cougars were held to just 1.2 (8) in the final term, whileWoodsidepiledon5.3 (33) to run away 64-point winners, 17.13 (115) to 7.9 (51).

We did warn you, when Woodside win, they win big.

The visitors had seven multiple goal scorers in the rout, while Churchill only managed to have seven goal scorers for the entire 120 minutes.

Cameron Whiteoak was namedasbest-ongroundfor the Wildcats, alsoprominent was Josh Kennedy, Joh Fyfthe, Tom King, Josh Scott and Shaun Cusack.

For the Cougars, vice-captain Ryan Lowrie was best, also featuredwas coach Jordan Fenech in his 200th game, 2022 captain Angus Mitchell who returned for agame, Patrick Kearns, Kurt Holt and Bailey Flanigan.

Woodside has another potential finals game coming up this week, when they face Yallourn Yallourn North back home.

Funeral Directors

Barry &Annette Lett

67 Macarthur Street, Sale Phone 51431232

As for the Cougars, they will be in asimilar neck of the woods when they travel to Yarram to take on the Demons.

THE Kangaroos would be jumping with joy.

Heyfield scored their sixth win of the season, after disposing of Rosedale with ease,despite the high-scoring encounter.

Thingsbegan to get awayfromthe Bluesearly, when Heyfield piled on seven goals in the opening term, but thanks to three goals for the away side, thelead only stood at 26 points.

The scoreboardwas ticking over quitefrequently, with5.5 (35) being addedtothe home side’s score Rosedale, against the run of play, continued to get chances and make the most of them, scoring 3.2 (20), keeping the margin to 41 points at the half.

The Blues were showingwhatthey were capable of in glimpses, but were unable to stop the run and domination of Heyfield,who appeartobeone of the most determined sides in the competition this season.

This was displayed when Rosedale continued to get on the scoreboard, so would Heyfield, and they would score more.

Rosedale kicked another three goals in the third term,something that could be sustainable against adifferent opposition, but Heyfield kicked 4.3 (27) extending their lead to 50 points with 30 minutes remaining.

Justlikethey had all game, the Blues kicked three more, but Heyfield had their most dominant quarter of the contest,kicking 7.4 (46)towalk away 78-point victors, 23.14 (152) to 12.2 (74).

For the Roos, Tyson Birss, Kail Hole, Mitch Bennett, Rob McMillan, KyleGrahamand Brayden Woodland were in the best. Bennett and Graham kicked four majors each, as did coach Leigh Brown.

And for Rosedale,Tom Northe, Will Logan, Declan Barnett, Oscar Smith and Spencer Fox were impressive in defeat.

Rosedalewere valiant in defeat, and if they take anythingawayfrom this, it’sthe fact thatthey were good against apotentialfinals side, and this type of performance againsta teamintheir halfof

the table would give them arun for their money. They might just get the chance to put thatto the test,whenthey travel to Glengarry this week.

As for Heyfield, they will be treated to abye, before they get readytohostGlengarry in a fortnight.

TRARALGON Tyers United are still undefeated.

It was no surprise to see the Bombers among the winners again,whentheymadelight work of Cowwarr at home.

TTU kept the Saints goalless for the first half, kicking 6.2 (38) to three behinds in the opening term, which soon became 13.5 (83) to four behinds at the main break.

The goals continued to flow in the second half too, as things began to go from bad to worse for the visitor’s.

A6.5 (41) to 1.2 (8) third term sent not only TTU past 100 points, but also their margin, as their percentage grew throughout the day.

With the game all but over,the Bombers finished the game with another 41-8 quarter, winning by a massive 145 points, holding onto top spot on the NGFNL senior ladder.

Brad Kelleher was strong up front with seven goals, Hayden Willaton kicked four, while Stuart Goddard and Michael Jacobsen kicked three each.

Kelleher moved into equal-sixth on the NGFNL senior goal scoring list, with 35 goals throughout the season from eight games.

In the best for the Bombers were the Willaton brothers -Liamand Hayden, Jacobsen, Kelleher, Frazar Brouns and Jack Brown.

While for the Saints, Ben Coffey, Brayden Rioli, Mathew Leicester, Kyle Stamers, Sean Alexander and Rhys Luxford battled hard.

TTU can finally flex their muscles at the top of the ladder, now boasting the highest percentage which has been held by Woodside for most of the season.

The Bombers took theirpercentagepast 300 and over the Wildcats to 320.46 per cent.

TTUhaveSale City this week, before one of the highly-anticipated games of the season, which will most likely be afirst versus second duel against Woodside.

Cowwarrwillhope to get their first win since Round 1, when theyface Gormandale at the Boneyard.

The Tigers will also be desperate to get their first win of the season, in what is seen as agenuine possibility.

YALLOURN Yallourn North survived an early scare to hold off Sale City.

In typical Sale City fashion as of late, they didn’t shy away from the contest early.

The Bulldogs stayedcloseinthe first half,matching the Jetsinthe first quarter (17-apiece),before going down by just 13 points at the half.

Chanceslooked to be missedbythe Jets, who kicked 4.7 (31) in the second term, but it perhaps showed us what they were capableofdoing in the second half.

And it was, as the Jets piled on 5.4 (34) to 1.3 (9), to establish a38-point three quarter time lead.

The scoreboard was atruereflection of the Jets’ second half performance, as they kicked another five goals to one in the final term to claim a 61-point win, 16.19 (115) to 7.12 (54).

Dean Macdonald kicked five, but still wasn’t the top goal-scorer on the day, outdone by teammate Josh Keyhoe, who kicked six.

Keyhoe claimed best-on-ground honours, and within the best was Jai Massese, Kyle Jennings, Cambell Staff, Anthony Youngand Owen Budge.

For Sale City, Bill Quirk, Matthew Walker, Ben Brett, Blake Safstrom, Jaxsyn Whitehall and Chad Evans were best.

The Jets will have one of the toughest fixtures thisseason up next, whenthey makethe long journey down to Woodside for achanceatmaking arun to securing the double chance.

YYN now look to be fighting Churchill for third spot.

They remain two games behind them, but if they can string some wins together and hope for some favourable results, they could be achance when push comes to shove.

Sale City also don’t haveiteasy this week, when they take on the undefeated TTU.

YARRAM needed that one.

The Demons are finally back on the winners’ list, and they did so in comfortable fashion, restoring their hopes of playing finals in 2023.

Visiting Glengarry, doubt surrounded Yarram based on their recentform, but they put those doubters to sleep with their performances at the weekend.

Not only did they win, but they kept the Magpies to asingle-digit score up until the final quarter.

Amonster first quarter set up the win, when Yarram kicked 6.6 (42) to nothing.

The second term wasquitebleakinreturn, with just two goals going the way of Yarram, as Glengarry got on the board with abehind.

The Magpies kicked their firstmajor in the third term, while Yarram could only manage to add one, as they held a56-point lead going into the final term.

Just how Glengarry have done during points of the season -they finished strong.

The Magpieskicked 3.1 (19)to2.2 (14), dragging the margin back to 51 points when the final siren rang,11.12 (78) to 4.3 (27).

For Yarram, MattClavarino, KieferSutherland, Dylan Garnham,JakeMcfarland, Levi Munns and Chris Bruns -the new senior games record holder -all made the best.

TomPoulton, Jack Burgess, Hunter Carman, Matt Scholtes,Seth Healy and Jordan Isiah Thomas when in the best for the losing side.

Yarramwill want to take advantage of a Churchill side who are coming off the back of a loss,but it will be hard giving their recent headto-head record.

Glengarry have achancetofind their first win since Round 8, when they host Rosedale this weekend.

GORMANDALE had the bye.

The Tigers will have their best chance of awin so far this season, when they host Cowwarr at the Boneyard this Saturday.

North Gippsland and East Gippsland scoreboards will appear in this Friday’s issue.

FOOTBALL NETBALL EAST GIPPSLAND

Swans among the champs

Zoe Askew

THIRTY-THREE Sale United Football Club members descendeduponBallarat acrossthe King's Birthday longweekend, representing the region in the Country Leagues Football Association 2023 Country Championships.

The girls under 18 team ended up winning the tournament.

Sale United Football Club had more representatives in the 2023 Country Championships than any other soccer club in the region, with 29 players and four coaches ranging from under 11s to under 18s.

Sale United's Paul McGrath and Steve Giuliani wereappointedcoach andassistantcoach of the under 14 boys,withthe Swans' Madelaine Breakspear and Romi Bitar selected coach and assistant coach of the under 18 girls squad.

Sale United seniorwomen's fancy footwork forward Dani Wilson was named the under 18 girls captain, with the Swanettes' fierce defender Emma Robb selected as vice-captain.

Sale United's Jax Eldredwas namedunder 14 boys captain.

Gippsland representative teams travelled the nearly four hours to famously cold Ballarat on Friday, June 9, before descending on one of three locations: Morshead Park, Trekardo Park and Victoria Park, on Saturday morning for Day 1of the championships.

It wasaformidableopeningtothe competition for the under 14 boys, who faced tournamentfavourites Ballarat District League, and lost 6-0.

"We started off slow and lethargic and had no real impetus in our play, and within 10 minutes were 3-0 downwiththreeglaringindividualerrors,"

Sale United's Paul McGrath said.

"We struggled for the rest of the game."

Game two was against Sunraysia District League.

"We faced aquick, well-organised side, and again we justwere not at the races, possiblythe playing on the main pitch and with acrowd that was drowning out oursupport, the boys just couldn't string apasstogether, which was really getting to me as Iknow we are way better than this but not committed in our play," Magrath said.

The under 14 boys lost another game, going 6-0.

"Gamethree we played against Geelong District, going down 9-0 was not ideal, but in general, we were outplayed and out-thought," McGrath said.

"Half of us wanted to be there, but the others not so much."

The under 18 girls had amore positive start to the three-day regional football competition,the Gippsland representative team defeating Bendigo 2-1 in the opening match.

"We came from behind to claim the win," Breakspear said.

"Ourfirst goal was scored when Summer Cooper was brought down in the box; Dani Wilson converted the penalty.

"At half time, it was 1-1.

"The second half, we came out and played better football; Dani converted achance in the second half to take home the three points."

The under 18 girls met aformidable Albury Wodonga in game two.

"They were atough physical team," Breakspear said.

"They scored in the first few minutes of the first half.They scored another goal in the firsthalf through our own error. At the end of the first half, we got afreekick over towards the right wing; Dani whipped the free kick in and hit the crossbar, it bounced down, and SallyHoffman pounced on the header to score.

"Second half was end-to-end, and neither team was able to add another goal."

The under 18 girls were defeated 2-1 by Albury Wodonga.

On Sunday, the under 14 boys met West Gippsland representatives, Gippsland Soccer League, with a goal from Traralgon City's Max Canty cementing a1-0 wininthe first game of day two.

"With having our morning game postponed till 6pm,wehad the morning off, and we all had a team meeting at 12.30pm to outline the day ahead," McGrath said.

"Parents and playersinvolved, we discussed and agreed that effort and having agowas not there on day one.

"I discussed with them that the score is not important,but our conduct and effort and what

we trained on was. Iwantedtosee us try!"

The meeting did not fall on deaf ears, with the under 14 boys claiming a1-0 win.

The under 14 boys then faced Albury Wodonga in the day's second game.

"Losing to eventually the winners outright 6-1 wasnot alldoom-and-gloom as our performance was there; just afew errors here and there cost us," McGrath said.

"We tried to playattacking football,and that'sall Iwanttotry and see from my teams."

The under 14 boys met SouthWestDistrict Football in the final match on day two.

"With only getting 60 minutes between games today, cramps and injuries were starting to climb as we faced South West District Football," McGrath said.

"With my star centreback Chantel Stephens out through injury and captain Jax Eldred struggling with cramps, we set up and went for it.

"On the main pitch underlights,God did we produce.

"At 20 minutes, Max Cantyscores from25metres to go one up. South West District Football were going allout to equalise,and we were trying to get another goal.

"It was end-to-end stuff, acoaches nightmare of agame but asupportersdream.

"SouthWest did equalise and,tobefair, afair result."

McGrathwas immensely proud of his squad's efforts on day two, describing the football his team played on Sunday as chalk and cheese to the football they played on Saturday.

For the under18girls, they faced Ballarat in Game 1onday two.

"The under 18 girls had awin against Ballarat; won 3-0", Breakspear exclaimed.

"Dani Wilson scored two goals while youngMiley Cooper (Moe United) scored one goal."

The under 18 girls met aphysical Sunraysia in game two, going down 2-0.

On Monday, the third and final day, the under 14 boys played theirlast2023 Country Championships match, meeting Bendigo.

"Withall our squad really hurting with such a big day the day before,wedid loseour captain

Sale United Football Club2023 Country Championship under 18 girls representatives Romi Bitar, Isabel Hearsey, Dani Wilson, MilliHarbour,Madelaine Breakspear (front) Rohanna Mills andEmmaRobb.

Jax Eldred to acalf muscle injury," McGrath said.

"Luckily, ChantelStephens (ChurchillUnited) declared herself fit.

"Going down 1-0 in 10 minutes, Iwas worried thatthe squad wouldjustgive up due to tiredness, but Iwas wrong.

"Equalising just before halftime through Keech Malual, we were on the ascendancy.

"Tyson Stephens got us the winner five minutes from the end.

"We finished fifth in the league out of eight teams Day one was not good, but proud of them for the rest of the tournament."

The under 18 girls sealed a1-0 win against Geelong in their final round game on day three, advancing to the Grand Final against the formidable Sunraysia.

"We played out atough game and went to extra time with alot of opportunities on goal," Breakspear said.

"Sunraysia didn't get much of asniff at goal at all during the game.

"The game went to penalties, we scored three, and Sunraysia missed all three."

The under 18 girls were duly crowned the Country Leagues Football Association 2023 Country Championships.

Students converge on Sale for annual clay target event

THE 44th annual Howardand Schuback Gippsland Interschool Simulated FieldClayTarget Shooting Championships took place at the Sale Field and Game Range on Wednesday, June 14.

It was acrisp morning as 154 students from 12 Gippsland schools arrived at the range.

Students from as far apart as Korumburra and Orbost participated this year, with astudent from Korumburra Secondary College being welcomed for the first time.

There has now been 25 different schools that have participated in this event since its inception in 1978.

The shooters were divided into 29 squads of five or six shooters, with even-numbered squads to shoot their first 10 targets at five stands on the southsideofthe range and the odd-numbered squads on the north side.

After ashort break around lunchtime, the squads were called back onto the range to shoot 10 targets on the opposite side to their first round.

Shooters were divided into juniorand senior groups,girlsand boys, withstudents 14 andunder classed as juniors. There was 70 boys in the senior event, 53 in the junior, while there was 17 and 14 in the girl's events, respectively.

Field and Game members from all over Gippsland helped in many capacities, from transporting students, setting up the range, manning the canteen,

refereeing and scoring the squads and recording scores. Without this support, and from teachersin the schools, parents and bus drivers, events such as this would not take place.

Gary Howard (2022 Order of Australia Medal recipient) was chief referee for the day, which ran very smoothly.

Club president Michael Brown awarded the

prizes, congratulating all shooters on their behaviour and their very safe gun handling, and also thankedall the helpers who had given up their day to make the event agreat success.

RESULTS

SENIOR BOYS:

1st Finn Carpenter,Gippsland Grammar -Score:19

2nd Joel Hooper,Gippsland Grammar -Score:18+6/6

3rdBobby Kanavan, Lavalla College -Score:18+5/6

SENIOR GIRLS

1st Sienna Smith, St Pauls Warragul -Score:18

2nd Ella O’Doherty,Gippsland Grammar -Score:14

3rdJoci Heenan, Lavalla College-Score:12+6/6

JUNIOR BOYS:

1st Noah Seddon, Lavalla College -Score:18+5/6

2nd IsaacRobinson, Lavalla College-Score:18+3/6

3rdCooper Mitchell, Lavalla College-Score:17+6/6

JUNIOR GIRLS:

1st Imogen Carpenter,Gippsland Grammar -Score:15

2nd Nikki Farley, Orbost Secondary -Score:13+4/6

3rdDarcee Young, Gippsland Grammar -Score:13+2/6

TEAMS

1st Gippsland Grammar #1 -Score:82/100

2nd Lavalla College #1 -Score:79/100

3rdCatholicCollege Sale -Score:76/100

ramen, ream, rename, tame, tamer, team, teem, teemer,tegmen, term, tram.

Photo: Contributed

Sale Field andGame RangeClub president Michael Brownand seniorboyswinner Finn CarpenterfromGippslandGrammar

Photo: Contributed

Pies pave path to finals

Liam Durkin

LOCALrivalriesheadlined Round11ofthe Gippsland League.

Latrobe Valley rivals Morwell and Traralgon playedastandalone marquee gameonSunday, while Sale and Maffra clashed in the traditional Battleofthe Birds fixture.

Aone-point thriller betweenWonthaggi and Moe also highlightedaction, in what is hoped to be ateaser to this year's finals series.

Meanwhile, Drouin celebrated their first win of the season. Unfortunately, their West Gippsland counterparts Warragul experienced oppositefeelings, slogging it out in one of the club's toughest days.

SALE went2-0 in Battle of the Birds for 2023.

In what would have been doublysweet for the Magpies, they also ended any faint hopes Maffra might have had of playing finals as well.

The Eagles certainly made the visiting Magpies work for the points, in afinal scoreboard reading 9.9 (63) to 6.8 (44).

Thestage wasset for agrandstand finish, after Maffraled by three points at three quarter time.

Sale however finished strongly, kicking four goals to none in the final term.

Oddly enough,the Eagles did all their scoring in the third quarter.

Up until then, the Magpies had kept Maffra goalless, but somewhat astonishingly, the Eagles managed six unanswered majors before not scoring agoal again in the last.

An arm wrestle unfolded in the first half, as just two goals were kicked.

Sale had nine scoring shots to three at the main break, before Maffra hit their straps.

Bohdi Walker played his first senior game for the season, and kicked two goals for the victor’s.

Youngster Tom Wrigglesworthalsohit the scoreboard on senior debut.

The 17-year-old became the third generationSaleplayer to play seniorfootball for the Magpies, following in the footsteps of father Ian and grandfather Barry.

Barry's contribution to Sale FootballNetball Club has been immense. Along-time supporter, he played 150 games for the Magpies and was president and treasurer fora decade.

It has been abig fewmonths for Tom Wrigglesworth, who alsomadehis First XI debut for Melbourne Cricket Club last summer.

In asomewhatfitting twist, debuting against Maffra held some significance as Wrigglesworth's great grandfather played for Maffra and his great grand uncle coached the Eagles to aflaginthe 1930s.

Jack McLaren was again in the best for Sale, and could justabout have the club bestand-fairest sewnup. Others to play well were Will Leslie, Josh Butcher, Nathan Whitford, Jarrod Freeman and Adam Wallace.

Magpiesseniorassistantcoach Daniel Sandeman said it was aclassic Battle of Birds clash, and even brought out the junior footy term of 'team effort' when asked who the best players were.

"Game was always close, we justhad to dig really deep, to Maffra's credit it was a really hard-fought game, which Maffra-Sale games always are," he said.

"Our last quarter was pretty special, the way we got up and got the victory, so very pleasing from all points of view." The result puts Sale agame clear in fifth, and in the driver's seat to take the last available spot in finals.

Sale’s reserves also put the competition on noticeafterwinning their second consecutive game against alikely finalists.

Make no mistake, the Magpies are coming in the twos.

Back to the later game, Dr Sam Davidson kickedtwo goalsina best afieldperformance for Maffra. Brayden Monk, Ben Brunt,Alex Carr, Kieran Jones and James Read also did agood job.

IF the game at Ted Summerton Reserve wasanythingtogoby-it's going to be a cracking finals series.

Second played third when Moe welcomed Wonthaggi.

The game was befitting of one billed as match-of-the-round, so much so adraw would have been afair result.

It wasn't far off beinga draw, just one point in fact, but four points went the way of Wonthaggi after they secured athrilling 9.9 (63) to 9.8 (62) victory.

Heartrates were high in apulsating last five minutes, as the Lion’s came agonisingly short of endingthe Power'sseven game winning streak.

The visitor’s started the better of the two sides, and led by 14 points at the firstchange.

Despite losing key defender Shannon Bray early, Wonthaggi took further ascendency, and skippedtoagame-high34point lead midway through the second.

At that stage, the Power looked every bit the team that had inflicted fellow top-four side Traralgon with anear 80-point drubbing just three rounds prior. One spectator quipping to this scribe "not muchtowrite about this week."

Moe however did enough to stayinthe contest. Back-to-back goals fromBilly Gowers, the firstfrom a50metre penalty that took him to the goal square, and the second from awraparound handball just inside 50, ensured the Lionshad the margin under some control.

Aclever play by Riley Baldi to take advantage inside 50 at the scoreboardend saw him slot acrucial majorright on halftime, with said scoreboard reading 7.8 (50) to 4.3 (27) at the main break.

Wonthaggi had looked the superior team in the first half, and when Cooper McInnes scored the first goal of the third quarter to extend the lead, the Power threatened to take the game right away from Moe.

The Lions kept fighting though,and another advantage call went theirway, and saw Gowers add amajor at the nine-minute mark.

Afollow-up long range set shot from Ben Daniher sailed through at the 14-minute mark.

Moe added athird goal for the quarter when Nick Prowse took astrong mark within close range,and brought the margin back to nine points at the 24-minute mark.

By now, momentum had well and truly swung Moe's way, and they weren't done with yet.

The Lion’s managed another goal just beforethreequarter time, and wentinto the last change only three points down.

Defence was the order of the last quarter, as both sides fought manically to repel any forward entries.

AJackHutchinson goal gave Wonthaggi some breathing space,and it wasn't until the clock had ticked over 20 minutes that Moe was able to respond.

Strong contested marking was afeature throughout the day, and there was some potentially goal-saving grabs by Power players Tim Knowles and Josh Schulz.

Two points down and needing to go for everything, Moe pushed all their numbers past halfway.

Thefinaltwist in the tale turned out to be rather ironic as far as Moe was concerned.

If you were to askany Moe player who they would want taking aset shot, chances are they would choose Scott van Dyk.

With arguably the best and most raking footinthe team, vanDyk had ashot 40 metres out directly in front. Unfortunately for Moe, and understandably under tired legs for van Dyk, the kick couldonly register aminor score.

Wonthaggidid not try to win the game from there, and were intent on chewing off valuable seconds, even if it meant kicking theball20metres backwards.

Alast-gasp effort from Moe was thwarted when Knowles again crashed apacktotake asolid mark.

The siren sounded as he was getting up, giving Wonthaggivictory by the barest margin.

McInneskicked four goals and Hutchinson three, whileAiden Lindsay,Knowles, Jarryd Blair, Kyle Reid,Jordan Staley and Jack Blair were voted best for the Power.

Bestfor Moewas Grady Cocksedge,Declan Keilty, JacobWood,Tom Long, Baldi and Charlie Rieniets.

THE future of Gippsland League football is in safe handsifthe game betweenTraralgon and Morwell was anything to go by.

Two relatively youthful teams clashed in amarquee Sunday game. The weather was coldbut the footyhot as the traditionalrivals squared off at Morwell Recreation Reserve, now complete with nets at either end of the ground.

Halleluiah.

Whilespectators on both sides were singing the praises of thatparticular instalment, only one was singing their club song at the end of the game.

Traralgonwas the team to sing their song, after breaking away in the last term to win 12.9 (81) to 7.9 (51).

Just 13 points separated the sides at the last change, but afour goal to one final term sealed the deal for the Maroons.

Afamous winwas on the cards when Morwell's BrandonMcauliffebenefitted from some sloppy defence from Traralgon, which allowed him to take an uncontested mark inside 50.

The goal cut the margin back to seven points, but Traralgon responded ashort time later with agoal to Billy Schilling.

Agoal to Brett Eddy at the 20-minute mark made the equation just that little bit harder for Morwell,and when Tate Marsh found the ball in space and ran into goal from 30 metres out, it was all over.

Eddy was voted best-on-ground for the winners,followed by ConnorLittle, Tom Schneider, Dylan Loprese (three goals), Tom Hamilton and Mark Collison.

Bestfor Morwellwas Tristen Waack, Burkeley Macfarlane, Blake Couling, Darnell Grech, Mcauliffe and Max Linton. DROUIN broke through for its first win of the season,after defeating thetravelling Bairnsdale by 27 points.

Wildscenes eruptedinthe Hawks' rooms, following their 10.20 (80) to 8.5 (53) victory.

The win was followed by even better news, whenitwas confirmed Gary Ablett Jr,whose family grew up in Drouin, would be playing agame for the Hawks next month.

Good news did not come the way of Drouin’s westernneighbours Warragul,who were crushed by league-leaders Leongatha.

Aseverely depleted Warragul did well to field ateam, and duly lost 26.24 (180) to 5.3 (33) at Parrot Park.

The shortage of players meant the Gulls had to forfeit the reserves.

ROUND 11

RESERVES

THIRDS

Bairnsdale: LDunkley 4A Watt 3T Brown2MEast 2JBills ATreasureS Fleming

KGregg 2B Walsh AWanigavitharana CCaddy BEST: Bairnsdale: LCloak LDunkley ECarroll AWattA Treasure MEast. Drouin: WBethune PSaddington KGregg FPallotT Harkin

ROUND

Each tipster has nominated acommunitygroup to promote throughout this year’s season

S SHOOTING STARS

Bombersfly highand topple top team

Paul Nichols

ROUND 10 of East Gippsland senior football producedtwo unfathomable results, with BoisdaleBriagolong topplingladder leadersWyYung at theirhome ground, and Paynesville securing a thrilling one point win over final hopefuls Lucknow. Meanwhile, Stratford easily accounted for Lakes Entrance and Orbost Snowy Rovers was too strong for Lindenow.

But the questions remain. What is in store for the rest of the season? The weekend’sresults have certainly made the remaining six rounds and final make-up interesting.

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG defeated Wy Yung

12.8 (80) to 9.8 (62).

WhilstWyYunghave well and truly locked in the minor premiership, sitting two games clear with three easier rounds left in the last six, the Bombers have given the top four hope that the giants are beatable,and perhapsadent in the armourofa fast-paced Wy Yung side.

For the Bombers,they’ll be riding high, full of the confidence needed to succeed having now beaten every side in the competition.

Not just that, but they’ve now proven to the naysayers that they are able to adapt their style of play to suit wider, larger grounds away from home. It was the one question hanging over BoisdaleBriagolong’s head, now answered and in style against an opposition that has been premiership favourites since Round 1.

The Bombers wentinto the game with aclear plan on how they believed they could get the result, but would have been somewhat nervous in how

Wy Yung would respond given their 9-0 start to the season.

The plan was to be tough, physical, to be able to get the game on their terms early on andapply scoreboard pressure in the hope that Wy Yung would panic and the younger bodies would find the tough relentless style of play hard to respond to.

For Boisdale-Briagolong, the physical presence came in the form of tackle pressure, and lots of it for asustained four quarters all over the ground. Ultimately getting them the win they well and truly needed after their confidence was rocked by Stratford two rounds prior.

In the first quarter, it was goal-for-goal,with the Bombers taking anarrow two point lead into the second.

With the wind picking up in the second, the Bombers made the most of conditions, kicking 7.2 (44) to 1.3(9) to be 33 points up at themainbreak Confident, but well aware the wind advantage remained, Wy Yung was able to get back in the game but not able to take the lead, alead they never saw overthe fourquarters. The Bombers were too strong in the final term, and an 18 point victory was the end result.

CalebCalwyn andThomasJollykicked four apiece for the winners, with Jim Reeves finishing with two. Best players were Jolly, Calwyn, Thomas Bradshaw, Shaymus Wain, Andrew Quirk, and Nathan Flint.

For Wy Yung,Brodie Anderson kickedthree, with Bayden Ashwood and Jai Nicholls eachkicking two. Ashwood wasjoined in the best by Tom Betts, Marcus Hottes, Jet Kellow, Jai Nicholls and Sam Stewart AS expected, Stratford was too good for Paynesville,

finishing the game 23.15 (153) to the Gulls 4.6 (30).

In a123-point win, Stratfordappeared flat -a worrying trend as they’ve been this way now for the last two rounds.

The Swans will need to fire up in coming weeks, as they take on an almost certain top-four finisher in Orbost Snowy Rovers in afortnight.

Before that however, they take on Lindenow, a side that Stratford has struggled against historically away from home and who.

To the Swans’ credit, it takesastrongsideto be abletowin by more than100 points against any opposition.Whilst notattheir best, they comprehensively won eachquarter at the weekend.

Ashining lighthas been the return of Haydn Erfurth, who kicked eight on the weekend. His strongoverhead marking and accuracy in front of goal was too much for the Seagulls defenders at the weekend.

Erfurth was joined by Tim Hawkins who kicked four and Rodney O’Keefe (three) in the goal-kickers list. Stratfordhardman ZanePerkins, utilityLewis Bolton and the ever-reliableRegan Tait were in the best players.

For Lakes Entrance,Ben Rotheram wasthe only multiple goal-kicker with two.

Not surprisingly, LiamCarroll was named in the best again, alongside Rotherham and Carroll. Bryce Collings, Harvey Geier, Matthew Duggan, and Oscar Brazzale also played well.

The Swans will take as much confidence out of the Bombers beating Wy Yung as the Bombers themselves, given their 50-plus point win against Boisdale-Briagolong only two rounds previous.

PAYNESVILLE’S victory 9.15 (69) to 9.14 (68) victory over Lucknow could well have ended the

finals hopes for asidethat, preseason, would have been hopeful of going deep into afinals campaign. It was 84 days betweenwins for Paynesville, after toppling Lindenow in an upset victory in Round 1. But this result would be so much sweeter, as it showed the Gulls’ ability to match it with sides above them on the ladder.

Traditionally we’ve seen that it’s not only sides inside the top four or five that will impact how the finalswill play out, and this now makesitdifficult forLucknowtofinishtop four, with Orbost Snowy Rovers now agame and 10 percentage points clear.

Paynesville coach Ash Watt was happy with his side’s ability to win the contest early.

Watt stated that winning the ball from the middle “allowed us to create more scoring shots, (and) was the reason for being in front at halftime.”

Following the halftime break, Lucknow made a few changes whichsent panic to the Paynesville benchasthey worked to ensurethe match-ups were correct.

Going into the last quarterfourpoints down, Paynesville didn’t want to let the win slip away. With the leadchanging threetimes in the last, accuracy could have cost Paynesville,but they managed to snatch the lead with two minutes to spare.

IN the other game of the round, Orbost Snowy Rovers was too strong for Lindenow.

Making the most of the upset victory of Paynesville, theBlues movedagameclear of Lucknow after kicking 15.15 (105) to Lindenow’s 9.13 (67).

EAST GIPPSLAND LADDER -PAGE 27

James Westman, Sam Ditchburn, Braith Stayley, Finn Carpenter and Joel Hooper werepartofthe Gippsland Grammar team thatwon the annual Howardand Schuback Gippsland Interschool Simulated Field ClayTarget Shooting Championship. STORY -PAGE28