Gippsland Times September 5 2023

Theymight not have been the best team during the finals, but theywerecertainly the best team on Grand Final day. After scraping through to the decider by one goal, Stratford took out the East Gippsland netball AGrade premiership on the weekend, defeating Wy Yung by 13 goals.

GRAND FINAL DAY

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WE NOW HAVE THE

YOUR

TO

Photo: Zoe Askew

End of a term for Tony Pearce

VICTORIA’S Inspector-General for Emergency Management, Tony Pearce, will step down at the end of his term after almost adecade.

Mr Pearce wasappointed as Victoria’s inaugural Inspector-General for Emergency Management (IGEM) in 2014 and has been instrumentalinreviewing and improving how Victoria plans for and responds to emergencies over this time.

The IGEM is astatutory role that provides assurance to the government and the community on emergencymanagement arrangements.

Minister for Emergency Management

Jaclyn Symes acknowledged and thanked Mr Pearce for his commitment to the role.

“Mr Pearce has built ahighly professional agency, delivering better outcomes for the community and improving how we plan and respond to emergencies,” Ms Symes said.

“I wouldlike to thank Mr Pearce for his commitment and dedication to the role, and Iwishhim all the best for the future.”

Mr Pearce has more than 40 years’ experience working across the emergency management sector and has dedicated his distinguished career to improving community safety outcomes.

During his tenure, Mr Pearce reviewed significant incidents such as the 2019-20 Victorian bushfires, the 2016 thunderstorm asthma event and the remediation of Fiskville Training College.

Beforehis appointment as InspectorGeneral, Mr Pearce held several senior roles in both state and federal government, including four years as Emergency Management

Australia’s Director-General.

Mr Pearce will remain in the role while the government undertakes arecruitmentprocess to appoint the next Inspector-General for Emergency Management

Cowwarr making leaps in Gumboot-a-thon event

WE’VE had the Women’s World Cup and the AFL finals have just begun, but real sports fans know the action will be around the Cowwarr Primary School thisFriday as the students take on their biggest challenge: The Annual Cowwarr Primary School Gumboot-a-thon!

“Every year, we aim to have our students connect to theircommunity and think of others in some way,”Cowwarr Primary School acting principal Chanae Johns said.

“The Gumboot-a-thon reminds them that no matter our size or position, we can do good things and help others in our community.”

This year, the students will raise money for Latrobe RegionalHealth (LRH) and its Better Care Appeal, which is raising funds to purchase a portable high-definition imaging machine.

The students are seeking sponsors as they prepare to walk laps of the school block wearing theirgumboots.

“This event was started four years ago by our previous school leader,” Ms Johns said.

“Theidea of gumboots was to wearshoes that people don’t wear every day. It’s not easy to walk in gumboots, so if we can do something alittle bit difficult to show our support for those people who are doing things tough, we can and we will.”

This year’s event may be extra challengingfor Ms Johns. If the children raise more than $4000, she has agreed to have her hair shaved off.

“This may be one of the silliest things I’ve done, but the kids put in such atremendous effort with this event, and Iamhappy to show my support,” Ms Johns said.

“Plus, they seem to be very excited by the idea of me having no hair. It’s afun way of getting the kids on board.”

Evenifthe $4,000 targetisn’t reached, Ms Johns will be making atriptothe hairdresser.

“If the students raise $1,000, I’ve agreed to dye my hair one colour,” she said.

“If they raise $2,000, I’ll dye it two colours, and if they raise more than $3,000 but less than four, I’ll be finding three colours.

“I think I’d prefer to shave it off than have three coloursupthere,but we’llsee what the kidscan do.”

LRH is welcoming this year’s Gumboot-a-thon.

“Seeing community events like this is areal thrill and one of the highlights of my job,”LRH Community Engagement Officer Lisa Twiggersaid.

“It’swonderful to see these children put some time and lots of energy into raising money for others in the community.

“They did agreat job last year raising funds for Uniting Care, but we’re delighted they’ve chosen to support LRH and the work of our breast cancer surgeons this year.”

This year’s Cowwarr PS Gumboot-a-thon will be held on Friday, September 8.

Keen to help the student hit their $4,000 target?

Donate here: http://bit.ly/3sr8aZ6

Cowwarr Primary School acting principal ChanaeJohns, with students Phoebe, Hunter,and Ariella.

Photo:Contributed

AMBULANCE Victoria’s (AV) Yarram branch is preparing to host the event of the century.

Marking 100 years of service, AV invites the local community and surroundingdistricts to a‘Community Celebration Day’ on Sunday, September 10, at the Yarram RecreationReserve Pavilion from 11am until 2pm.

Arange of festivities is planned for the event, with‘Call, Push,Shock’demonstrationstolearn how to perform CPR and use an AED, as well as information on how to signuptobecomea GoodSAM responder.

GoodSAM is afree, global smartphone app that alerts registered Responders when someone nearby is in cardiac arrest.

A1920s Dodgeambulance willalso be on display in anod to the branch’s past, with the vintage vehicle originally stationed at Yarram and one of the first motorised ambulances to operate in the state.

The first patients in the area to receive care out of Yarram’s branch were treated on July 14, 1923, when it opened its doors. The current branch on CommercialRoad openedin1966, with an extension and upgrade in 1990.

Change is on the horizon once more, with the State Government earlier this year announcing aparcel of land at the rear of Grant Street, which has been identified as the preferred site for the new, multi-million-dollar Yarram branch.

Construction is expected to start in the coming months.

Ambulance Victoria Yarram Team Manager Gus Taylorhas been based at Yarram forthe past 12 years and said the branchhad “changed massively” during his time.

“When Ifirst arrived in Yarram, there was one paramedicrostered to the ambulance at any one time, so we were heavily reliant on being partneredupwith other ambulances or needing

to wait on scene for another crew to arrive and help with transport,” Mr Taylor said.

Support for the single paramedics came about adecade ago with the introduction of Ambulance Community Officers (ACOs)who respond alongside paramedics.

ACOs are first respondersemployedona casual basis to provideadvanced firstaid in remote communitieswherethe caseloadislow, and the branch is not staffed full-time.

ACOs have life-saving skillsthat they develop and maintain every year.

“There was astage wheretherewere no paramedics living locally at all, so we started with ACOs, and through that process, we have now fostered the development of four local paramedics and two nurses who all started at Yarram branch,” Mr Taylor said.

“Over this time with ACOs supporting single paramedics, we had 95 per cent shift coverage, which for acommunity of our size is amarvellous achievement. It is atestament to the quality of our ACOs.

“We’re very proud of the service we offer the community andthe fact we’ve beenableto maintain it at such ahigh standard.”

Anothersignificant change took placein September 2022, with dual-paramedic crews running out of Yarram for the first time in its history.

Mr Taylor, who has been aparamedic for 28 years, said the Yarram branch’sprogression was reflective of AV’s innovative culture and encouraged everyone to attend the Community Celebration Day.

“It’s going to be agreat daytoengagewith some of the people who have been caring for the community in the past, currently and those into the future,” he said.

“We may evenfind some potential paramedics among the attendees on the day.”

In addition to the emergencyresponse demonstrations, attendees can enjoy abarbecuelunch, which the Yarram Lions Club will serve.

Thecommunity’syoungestmembers will also be well-entertained with teddies on site being bandaged, as well as adisplayofemergency vehicles and historic AV uniforms.

AV Regional DirectorRossSalathielsaid Yarram’s milestone was an impressive feat. “Yarram branch started from humble beginnings but continuestothriveand develop paramedics who are committed to patient-first, best care outcomes,” he said.

“There are many people who are to thank for the good work that continues to come from the Yarram branch, and the event will be one way we can showour appreciation to the community for their continued support.”

Early ambulances at Yarram.

AV Yarram Team Manager Gus Taylor with paramedicsTom King and WyattKilgowe.

Pilatus announce new Sale office

AEROSPACEmanufacturerPilatusAircraft haveannounced anew head office to built in Sale, estimated for completion in the middle of 2024.

For almost forty years, Pilatus has been a partner, supporting the training of student pilots and aircrew for avariety of aircraft types and operational roles for the Australian Defence Force. Pilatus delivered the first PC-9 trainer to the RAAF in 1987 and Pilatus aircraft have been the RAAF’s turboprop trainer of choiceever since, with 49 PC-21 aircraft introduced into service in 2019 as thereplacement training aircraft and the new platform of the world-renowned Roulettes aerobatic team. Pilatussees this as along-term investment in thelocal Sale community, as well as acommitmenttothe RAAF and the training of itsfuture ADF pilots.

Connecting Carersgrants

CARERS Victoria has announced anew grants program to improve local connections and support for unpaid carers in communitiesacross Victoria.

Funded by the Victorian Government, the ‘Connecting Carers in theirCommunity’ Grants Program presents amajor opportunity for eligible organisations to apply for one-off grants of between $20,000 and $40,000.

According to Judith Abbott, CEO of Carers Victoria, the grants program is another important step forward in recognising the valuable contributions of carers and providing them with the support they need and deserve.

“We want to give organisations around the state, regardless of size and location, the opportunity to access these grants so they can support carers from all walks of life, from ayoung carer caring for asibling, parent or grandparent, caringfor aperson withadisability, mental illness/issue or addiction to aperson caring for afamily member or loved one with achronic illness,” Ms Abbott said.

To be eligible to apply, organisations will need to be not-for-profit, have an ABN and possess public liability insurance. Applicationsthat

demonstrate innovation and the capacity to reach as many carers as possible, particularly isolated carers, are strongly welcomed.

“There are more than 700,000 unpaid carers across the State, and we hope that Connecting Carers in their Community’ will benefit a significant number of them,” Ms Abbott said.

Carers Victoria stronglyencourages organisationstoactivelyengageand partner with carers in project design, delivery, and evaluation.

As partofthe applicationprocess, grant applicants will be required to demonstrate how they plan to involve carers throughout the project.

Applicationsfor Connecting Carers in their Community’ Grants Program opened on August 18 and will close on September 5at5pm.

“Organisations interested in applying for the grant are urged to visit the CarersVictoria websitefor further details and submission guidelines,” Ms Abbott said.

“Together,wecan build amore connected and supportive community for Victorian carers.”

To submit an application for Carers Victoria Connecting Carers in their Community’ Grants Program, go to www.carersvictoria.org.au/ ConnectingCarersCommunityGrants

Jennifer Marshall, who is the Managing Director for Pilatus Training Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, said this is an exciting time for the company, as it provides theiremployees with anew purpose-built modern facility to work in every day.

“Additionally, it providesuswith the capacity to grow our workforce, creatinglocal employment prospects too,” Ms Marshall said.

Wellington Shire CouncilMayor Ian Bye said that such asignificant regional investment by Pilatus is exciting news for the Sale community.

“Not only will it create long term local employment and job opportunities,but it will also contribute to huge economic benefits throughout our region,” Cr Bye said.

Pilatus has engaged award-winning Gippsland builder, Virtue Developments to design and construct theirnew headoffice. Virtue Developments Managing Director, Mick Nicola, said they were extremely pleased to partner with Pilatus to build their new head office.

“It’s beenagreat collaboration so far and we are exceedingly eager to get the build underway.” The shovels are expected to hit the dirt for the build late this month, and estimated to be completed in the middle of next year.

Pilatus aircraft PC-21.

Photo: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd

Render of whatthe newheadoffice will look like.

Image: Virtue Developments

At thePilatus Training Solutions headquarters in Sale, from left: Wellington ShireCouncil Mayor

Ian Bye, Pilatus Managing Director Jenny Marshall, Virtue Developments ManagingDirector Mick Holmes and Virtue Developments Designer Ross Marchetti.

Photo: Stefan Bradley

Region ducking and weaving

Stefan Bradley

Aparliamentary inquiry released on Thursday has concluded recreational native bird hunting in Victoriashould end as of 2024,with the state government havingsix months to respond to the report. Interested parties on allsides of the debate have made their opinion known on the inquiry.

“We’re disappointed,” Sale Field&Game spokesman Gary Howard told the Gippsland Times

“Waterbirds are in decline, that includes all waterbirds, not just ducks …and the scientists that spoketothe panel madeitclearthat hunting had little or no effect on bird numbers.”

Mr Howard noted that conservation biologist Richard Kingsford had said that duck hunting had asmall effect on waterbird population, and that loss of habitat was amajor reason for the decline.

One of therecommendations of the inquiry is to convert existing state game reserves into outdoor recreation reserves.

“Well, that’swhatthey are already,” Mr Howard said,who described most of the reserves as “poorly maintained.”

“Anyone can use them at any time if you can access them.

“And the other thing is, these state game reserves would not be there if not for the duck hunters.”

Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien echoed these statements.

“The inquiry heardveryclearevidence that habitat is the key to sustaining duck populations and that hunting has avery minimal impact,” Mr O’Brien said.

“I am acutely aware of the efforts of hunters aroundthe statetomaintainand improve wetland habitat.

“Indeed,had it not been for huntersinthe 1950s and 1960s pressuring the government to establish State Game Reserves, many of our wetlands and thereforebreeding grounds for native waterbirds would have been lost.”

The Legislative Council Select Committee in its report urged the state government to end the activity on all public and private land ahead of the upcoming season opening.

“The Committee’s rationale is driven by the considerable environmentalevidenceoflongterm decline in native bird populations, and a worsening outlook as our climate continues to change,” Committee Chair and Labor MP Ryan Batchelor said.

“The Committee was also acutely aware of the animal welfare issues associated with native bird hunting, as well as the amenity loss of large areas of public land to the overwhelming majority of the Victorian public during the hunting season.”

The Animal Justice Party welcomedthe report, withRegionalGroup Leader for Gippsland Austin Cram saying the party had been calling for an end to duck shooting in Victoriasince its formation, and its supporters even longer.

“We were gratified to hear that an end to Victoria’s yearlyseason of cruelty is one step closer with the tablingofthe select committee’s report on Thursday 31st August,” Mr Cram said.

“The select committee, including Animal Justice PartyMPGeorgiePurcell, toured Regional Victoria during the consultation and held ahearing day in Sale to hear from both shooters and rescuers alike.”

Mr Cramsaidhewas pleased to seethe

committee had listenedtocommunity feedback, withthe firstrecommendationbeing to endthe yearlyseason from2024.

“Even with committee membersfrom the Nationals and the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party, the evidenceonpopulation decline and the poor welfare affordedtoour native ducks could not be ignored,” he said.

“We also welcome the committee’s recommendation that state game reserves, including Heart Morass and many othersonthe Gippsland coast, be converted to outdoor recreation reserves, so they can be enjoyed by Gippsland families year-round.

“The next step is for the government to accept the recommendations and legislate aban,and we’ll keep up the pressure until they do -because native animals can’t speak for themselves.”

In additiontoadvocating aban on native bird hunting, the final report has made further recommendations including:

 Retaining existing exemptions for

controlling native bird populations impacting agricultural and other land;

 Retaining traditional owner hunting rights under current legislation;

 Convert existing state games reserves into outdoor recreation reserves;

 Providing extra resources to better control invasive species, and;

 Extra protections for Aboriginal cultural heritage sites.

Campaign Director for the Coalition Against Duck Shooting (CAD) Laurie Levy said the report was “fantastic”, andthatthey’vebeen fighting duck hunting for 38 years. He also said he believed there wasa“very good chance” that thestate government would implement aban.

“There are so few duck shooters …itcosts the government millions of dollars to keep duck shooting going,” he said.

“All of our wetlands in this state could be opened up for nature-basedtourism. And that’s really where the money is. The PhillipIsland (penguins) arethe role model.”

Indigenous Australians wouldbeexempt fromaduck shooting banifthe government followed through with the recommendations, but traditionalelder Ian Hunter expressedconcern aboutthis.

“If we are allowed to do it then everybody should be allowed to do it. Otherwise it will cause friction between the different groups”, Mr Hunter told the Herald Sun Askedifheobjected to Traditional Owners retaining the right to hunt, Mr Laurie said he was surprised to see that recommendation in the report.

“The vastmajorityofthe Dja Dja Warrung and the Yorta Yorta people …and other clans do not want shootingontheir wetlands,” he said “We would support the Indigenous clans who didn’t want duck shooting on their wetlands.”

If it’s not banned, Mr Laurie said the CAD will return to the wetlands and continue their fight against duck hunting.

Premier Daniel Andrews has previously expressed supportfor duck hunting, but acknowledged not everyone agreed with him. He said the cabinet would consider the report.

One of the minorityreports was written by

Labor MP and Yorta Yorta woman, Sheena Watt, who opposes aban.She said there were mentalhealth benefitstoduck hunting,and recommended more stringent regulations and oversight.

RSPCA Victoria chief executive Dr Liz Walker called on the state government to legislate a ban. The organisation had participated in the inquiry.

“This report is the nextcrucialsteptoend native bird hunting in Victoria,” Dr Walker said.

“The evidence is clear; the high wounding rates for ducks and quail highlight the inherent and inevitable pain and suffering experienced by hundredsofthousands of ducks and quail each year -and that is why it needs to be banned.”

Jeff Bourmanofthe Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party of Victoria, amember of the committee, and MP representing Eastern Victoria Region, slammed the report.

“The report was delivered on time and that’s theonlypositivething Ican say about it,” he said

“It’s mind blowing that the government is giving in to acity-centricvocal minority that will just move on to something else they don’t like and try to get it banned, think horse and greyhound racing.”

The state Liberals and Nationals have called the report “biased”, with Gippsland East MP Tim Bull calling on the government to reject its findings.

“What we saw today wasnot surprising at all with the Greens, Animal Justice Party and Labor MPs opposed to duck hunting, coming up with afinding in the majority report we all knew was comingbut, in my view,common sense findings are in the minority report,” Mr Bull said.

Mr Bull commendedhis colleague Melina Bath for the work she undertook as amember of the committee.

“The extensive Liberalsand Nationals minority report recommends the continuation of bird harvestinginVictoria in asafe, responsible and sustainable way,” he said.

Ms Bath said: “This Inquiry has been driven by ideological and political purpose as payback for support for other issues in the Upper House.”

Electrical Trades Union boss Troy Gray said the union will campaign against aduck hunting ban.

The five-month inquiry accepted arecord 10,402 public submissions and involved multiple site visits and six days of public hearings.

“I wouldliketoextendmythanks to everyone who took the time to make asubmission, to all witnesses who attended public hearings to provide evidence and other stakeholders who gave up their time to escort the Committee on site visits,” Mr Batchelor said.

“Your contribution has greatly helped the Committee in its deliberations and in formulating the report’sfinal findingsand recommendations.”

On Monday, June 26 the committee came to Sale in order to gauge local insights into duck hunting, with supporters and opponents alike coming forward to have their say.

Wellington Shire Council had indicatedits support for hunting to continue, noting Field & Game Australia’s preservation of Heart Morass, the economic benefits that hunters bring to the region, and how ahigh number of ducks can impact the agricultural sector.

Animal JusticeParty MP Georgie Purcell questions Wellington ShireCouncil Mayor Ian Bye in June.

RSPCA Victoria chief executive Dr LizWalker. Photos: Contributed.

Duck sign near Macleod Morrass.

Ash forest firewarning

VICTORIA’S Ash forests are on the brink of ecosystem collapse following apoor flowering season and repeatedfire events, alerting the state’s leading forest flowering andseeding expert.

The issue highlights concernsraised by Forestry Australia, that the seed collection services provided by VicForests maybelostfollowingthe native timber sector shutdown in Victoria.

Ecologist Owen Bassett, who has continuously monitored flowering and seed crops in Victoria’s Ash forests since 1994, has reported that for the first time in 28 years, flowering did not occur as predicted, greatly affecting the natural regeneration ability and hampering seed collection efforts

“What this means for Victoria’s Ash forests is thatthey are at serious riskofecosystem collapse, because they will not have the capacity to naturally regenerate themselvescomethe next fire season,” he said.

Seed collection has also been part of Mr Bassett’s work, withseedsgatheredusedtoassist forest regeneration after fire and storm events. Forests

harvested for timber are also resown using seed from the harvest sites, with leftover seed contributing to abankused to resow areas including national parks.

However, withrepeated bushfires in 1998, 2003, 2006/07, 2009, 2013, 2018, 2019 and 2019/20, the seed bank was nearly exhausted.

“The DepartmentofEnvironment, Land, Water and Planning andVicForests undertook thelargest sowing event in Victoria’s history following the 2019/20bushfires, resowing of 11,500ha of Ash forest,” Mr Bassett said. “However, despite that world-leading effort, more than 10,000ha of Ash forest was not able to be resown and is not likely to recover following those fires.

“Another seriousconcern is that thereisat least 143,000ha of fire-killed forest which is now regenerating, but extremely vulnerable to another fire event. If it burns it will be lost forever because it doesn’t have the ability to reseed itself and we just don’t have the seed to resow it.”

Seed collection is one of the services provided by

Victoria’s forest agency, VicForests, which deposits into the seed bank seed from timber harvest and specific collection operations.

However, Forestry Australia president, Dr MichelleFreemansaidthis service maybelost followingthe nativetimbersector shutdown in Victoria. “With the closureofnativeforest harvesting and recentannouncement thatseed collection contractors are now considered part of that transition package, who will save our forests when the next bushfire comes?” she said.

Dr Freeman said the Australasian Fire Authority Spring outlook for 2023 identifies that Gippsland will face high fire risk this season putting Ash forests at risk.“In the face of these threats,active forest management is vital to build resilience against catastrophic fire and restore and maintain forest ecosystems,” Dr Freeman said. “If we are serious about meeting greenhouse gas emissions targets, then we must do more instead of taking peoplesuchashighly skilled seed collectorsout of the forests.”

Greater Glider research project complete

ARESEARCH project aiming to strengthen the population of GreaterGliders has been completed in Latrobe City.

The project was acollaboration between Latrobe City Council,Latrobe Catchment Landcare Network, Federation University and Greening Australia.

Untilearly 2018,numbers of Gliders recorded in theVictorian Biodiversity Atlas were low, with the 2019/20 bushfires also affecting previously recorded populations in East Gippsland.

In 2022, aFederation University PhD student, Cassey Briggs,documented the presenceofthe federally listed Greater Glider to better understand the population size, their range and estimated family groups.

Greening Australia has since added 118 Greater Glider records within the southern portion of Latrobe Cityand adjoining South Gippsland Shire,

due to the increased surveying effort. These records are believed to represent some of the highest densities of Greater Gliders known in Victoria.

The project was supported by a$50,000 Community-Volunteer Action Grant fromthe Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

The Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan, said the discovery of Greater Gliders on the outskirts of Boolarra highlighted the richness of biodiversity to be found in Latrobe City.

“Council’s 2021-2025 CommunityVision highlightsthe importanceofnurturingand respecting LatrobeCity’snaturalenvironment, supported by key actions to improve and protect biodiversity, waterwaysand bushlandreserves,” the Mayor said.

“As part of this commitment, Council partnered in the exciting initiative to install 25 customdesigned nest boxes in asection of bushland south

of Boolarra. The nest boxes were monitored using digitalcameras to determine how the animals used them. These boxes are fire-retardant, heat resistant and make asafer home for all wildlife.

“One of the reasons the Greater Glider is threatenedisbecausetherearen’t enoughlarge, old hollow-bearing trees remaining, so adding these nest boxes willprovide more homes in Boolarra forthe species.”

The project also bought togetherlocalschools and community members to participate in surveys, educational activities and spotlighttours.The research project included creating awareness, engagingthe communityand educating about Greater Gliders and how the community can help thespecies in the future.

To view the Greater Glider project video, view the Latrobe Catchment Landcare website here: www.lcln.com.au/greater-gliders

Overhaul at

LONGFORD Adult Riding Club and the Longford Horse andPony Club members have benefited from the recent ‘grounds overhaul’ owing to the dedication and efforts of local residentsLeo and Talia Macdonald from LTM Contracting.

The LTM Contracting team were initially asked to re-fence the tired and unsafe Longford Reserve boundary fences, made possible by asuccessful grant application awarded to the adult riders from Gippsland Critical Minerals.

Longford Adult Riding Club secretary Lea Baxter said LTM Contracting went the extramiletoensure the reserve grounds were not only safe for club riders but that they looked immaculate as well.

“Not only did the LTM team provide all the labour to complete the fencing job, but they also supplied materials at below cost,slashed, trimmed trees, spread dirt moundsand burned tree piles that have sat for some time,” Ms Baxter said.

“In fact, it is probably timely that we take the opportunity to thank all of our volunteerswho contribute in an ongoing capacity -removing fallen trees, mowing, general maintenance, cleaning and putting in at our monthly rallies. Without them, clubs could not exist.

“Of course, horses and horse riding, run in Talia and Leo’s blood -Leo having experience in brumby

Take aseatatthe Men’s Table in Sale

THE Men’sTable will be returning to Sale on Monday to continue its purpose of supporting men’s mental health and community.

Localgroups meet as adiscrete Men’s Table onceamonthtoshare amealand adrink,and talk about the highs and lows of their livesina safe and judgement-free environment.

For the men in attendance, there is no fee or membership charged by The Men’s Table organisation; it’s just the cost of their meal and adrink.

Bill Karametos, Regional Host at Men’s Table, said the organisation had conductedaninformation night, whatthey call an “Entree”, in Sale and Traralgon earlier in the year.

“Currently we have six men in Sale and four men in Traralgon meeting on amonthly basis to share ameal and talk openly about their feelings, and the highs and lows that are impacting their lives and well-being,” Mr Karametos said.

“We encourageall men who are interested to jump onto The Men’s Table website at Entree VIC -The Men’s Table (themenstable.org).”

Whenthey attend,they will meet othermen, listentoThe Men’s Table’s fundamentals and then they will be contacted on whether they want to continue or not.

“By getting Sale and Traralgon ahealthy Table it will join Warragul and Drouin as having aTable in the Gippsland region,” Mr Karametos said.

“For the men who attend it is asafespace to speak openly without judgement with alikeminded group of good men. They share our own stories, confident that no onewilltry to fixoradvise

us, knowing open ing and welcomed.

“This level of connection goes beyond the superficial level common in most male banter, and intentionally dives deeper.

“I look forward to meeting more Gippsland

running and Talia, once atrack rider, is now keen on team penning.

“The couple have also passed on their horse ‘genes’ to their two boys, Blake (five) and Riley (three), who willbothbemembers of the ponyclub in 2024 on theirponies, Lilla and Onyx.

“Onbehalfofall our members, we thank the LTM Contractingteamfor re-creating awelcoming and vibrant club space for us all to enjoy.”

For information on joining the Longford Adult Riding Club, email longfordadultridingclub@gmail. com.

Formoreonjoining the Longford Horse and Pony Club,email Longfordpc@bigpond.com.

Birds eye view on dogs

NEW researchindicates birdscan tell whether adog is on or off-lead, even if unleashed dogs are well-behaved.

The researchers observed the ‘escape responses’ of magpie larks when confronted by leashedand unleashed dogs in Melbourne parks.Both sets of dogs were walking quietly, close to their owners.

Interestingly, they found the birds had different reactionstothe dogsifthey were on or off-lead: they walked away fromleashed dogs but flew away from the unleashed dogs.

The research suggests that leashing dogs couldbeagood waytoreducethe intense fear behaviours of birds, which ultimately threatens their survival during breeding, nesting or migrating.

Victoria University researchersSkye Barnett, Dr Roan Plotz, and Dr Wouter van Dongen said the study -while simpleinits findings -could help motivate dog owners to follow leash laws.

Australia has some of the strictest dog leashing regulations in the world and ahigh rate of dog ownership, with about six million pet dogs in thecountry, according to the RSPCA.

However, Dr Plotzsaiddog leashing in public parks is controversial, with low compliance rates for leash regulations and alackof understanding by owners about the dangers their pets pose.

“More people should know there are good reasons to obey leash rules so we can ultimately enhance the way people and birds co-exist,” he said.

Theleash status of approaching dogs mediates escape modality but not flight-initiation distance in acommon urban bird. Researchers from DeakinUniversityalso participated in the study.

Talia and LeoMacdonald with their twoboysBlake and Riley.

Photo: Contributed

Decisions reversed for teachers

SHADOW Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bathhas congratulated familiesand disability advocatesfor forcingthe state government to reverse on its decision to cut 85 Visiting Teacher Service jobs.

The Visiting TeacherService(VTS) supports children withdisabilities and serious medical conditions statewide.

Last month, the state governmentannounced it was cutting 117 VTS specialised teachingjobs down to 32 to the dismay of students and families who relyonit.

Ms Bath said this was agreat day for regional students and their families, however the cuts should never have been consideredbythe state government.

“Access to support services in the country is difficult enough withoutLabor constructingbarriers forrural kids with disabilities who already experience educational disadvantage due to their postcode,” shesaid.

“The Andrewsgovernment’s callous decision to cut educational supporttostudentswith disabilities can only be descried as the cruellest of blows.

“Studentswith disabilities need additional educational support and funding, not less.”

The VTS provides individualised frontline support to children with hearing, visual, physical, and mental impairments in mainstream schools and is particularly important to regionalfamilies with limited access to services.

NationalsMP’s met with those in the disability community in Melbourne recently to understand their concerns.

Speaking in State Parliament, Ms Bath strongly condemned Labor’s decision before sharing the concerns of families and advocates.

Ms Bath said families and disability advocates clearly articulated the significant learning barriers students would experience if the VTS was lost.

“In regional settings,withlimited access to supports, the VTS provides one-to-one support to students with disabilities,” she said.

“Labor failed to consult with one family when making its decision and subsequently ignored all opportunities to engage and learn about the challenges students with disabilities in mainstream schools face.

“I remainincredibly grateful for the disability community for sharingand trusting me with their stories and allowing The Nationals to advocate on their behalf.

“Together we willcontinue to call for better educational outcomes and the removal of barriers for all students with disabilities.”

Member for EasternVictoria Region Melina Bath (back row)and fellowNationals MP Annabelle Cleeland(right) metwith deaf community advocates to discusscuts to the Visiting Teacher Service recently Photo: Contributed

Interactive road safety programdelivered to Vic schools

STUDENTS across Victorianow have access to anew interactive road safety education program delivered at school.

Minister forRoads and RoadSafety Melissa Hornelaunchedthe in-school Road Smart Interactive program to boost roadsafety education in all Victorian secondary schools.

“We’re making sure school students across the state have accesstoengaging, evidence-based road safety programs and resources that help the next generation to stay safe on ourroads,” Ms Horne said.

“The earlier we can start aconversation around road safety, whether thatbeinclassrooms or at home, the better-equipped our youngVictorians will be to use the roads safely.”

Ministerfor Education Natalie Hutchins said road safety educationisa critical life skilland encourages all students who are given the opportunity to take it up.

The in-school Road Smart Interactive program is delivered in partnership with Museums Victoria and willbefacilitatedbyskilledroad safety educators.

Museums Victoria CEO and Director Lynley Crosswell said they are proud to partner with the state government to deliver Road Smart Interactive.

“Museums Victoria’s commitmenttofostering awareness and positive change is exemplified by making vital road safety education more accessible, contributing to asafer future,” Ms Crosswell said.

The interactive program uses the latest immersive technology to guide students through aseries of educational exercises, all aimed at teaching young people about road safety.

Through Road Smart Interactive, students learn aboutsaferoad environments, safe vehicles and explore the impacts of crash forces. Students also testtheirknowledgeofroad safetyissues like speed, drink driving and distractions.

HeadofRoad SafetyVictoria MarceloVidales said road safety education is avital part of the blueprint to reduce road trauma.

“This contemporary, new program will connect with young people about road safety,” Ms Marcelo Vidales said.

Road Smart Interactiveisfree for all secondaryschoolsacross Victoria and targets Year 9, 10 and11students and thoseundertaking the VCE Vocational Major –helping to shape the next generationofsaferoad users.

Ahighlight of the program is avirtual reality road trip exploringthe history of road safety in Victoria and discovering what afuture with zero road deaths and serious injuries would look like.

The program features elements adaptedfrom the award-winningRoad to ZeroExperience at Melbourne Museum,including the use of immersive digital and virtual reality experiences.

“We’re always hearing how much students enjoy

the Road to Zero experience,” Transport Accident Commission CEO Tracey Slatter said.

“We’re pleasedtobeworking with Museums Victoria to bringthat levelofinteractiveroad safety education to schools across the state.”

Established in 2018 as part of the state government’s $146 million Young Driver Safety Package, the Road to Zero complex has attracted almost 200,000 visitors during its first five years of operation.

Road Smart Interactive and Road to Zero are part of asuite of road safety programs and initiatives being delivered under the Road Safety Education Victoria partnership.

For more information on the RoadSmart Interactive program, visit the Road Safety Education Victoria website at roadsafetyeducation vic.gov.au.

Sale’s ownSaleta

Katrina Brandon

BORNand raised in Sale,Michael Saleta is a professional singer songwriter in Nashville who recently signed with the producer Debbie Zavitson Saleta is in good hands as Ms Zavitson has been running her publishing firm since 2012.

Going fromamusic teacher, aDJ, childrensentertainer,waiter, and installing ducted heating, he is now making his strideinthe Nashville community

In 2021, he hadtwo songsinthe Top 10 of Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI’s) 21st Annual Song Contest and one in 2023. Alongside these accomplishments, Saleta has supported many artistsincludingToto, Taxiride, Killing Heidi, Jimmy Barnes, Hanson, Eric Martin (Mr Big). Currently,hehas co written songs with Sandee Facy (She had countryradio number ones’with Lucky Charm and Best One Yet), Emily Hatton,Jetty Road, Zac &George, Lily Grace, Troy Kemp, Craig Lloyd, Sammi Palinkas and Renee Jonas.

Nashville competitions allowed Saleta to cowrite songs with many artists and gave him the opportunity to participate in songwriter rounds. Songwriter rounds are when oneartist after another plays asong and explains the song and then off to another artist This goes on for about an hour whereartists can play up to threeorfour songs an hour, according to Saleta.

“Best thingabout doingthat is seeing the audience reaction, how they feel about asong. Last time Iwas in Nashville, Iwas doing around, one of the people next to me (were) actually crying by the end of the song.Asweirdasthatsounds, it felt really good to make her cry because that was part of the idea on how we wrote the song, it was to make people feel something,” said Saleta.

CurrentlySaletaworks with around 50 different artists andisbooked for many months. He mentioned to the Gippsland Times that this is aconstant in his line of work and enjoys the collaborations.

Saleta’sconnection withSalerunsdeep. His parents met at the Heyfield Rock‘N’ Rolldance and Saleta has playedatmanyofthe local performance centresinthe area. Saleta mentioned that growing up in Sale contributed to his dedication to music, thanks to having areally supportive family and community.

Memorablemoments within his career run

plenty. Saleta said, “Moments like when we played at the Astrodome, the JAM in Morwell in the early 90’s. We played with Screaming Jets, Roxis, and The Reptiles which was great.”

“A band Iwas with, supported Toto when they came to Australia. Getting to see them do sound check and then standing by the stage while they are playing Africa was pretty amazing.”

Saleta said for young musicians, “Don’t stop, don’t give up. When youstop, that is when the dream is over. No excuses. Just show up because you are still making adifference even at 50 per cent. Believe in yourself.”

Saleta’s dream startedlike most other musicians in abandand wanted the “rock star thing”.

Music means alot to Saleta, but it means more now than when he first started.

“When you are younger you are having agood time, enjoyingthe moment. Whereas when you are older, it’s all about being in the moment, enjoying the momentand taking in your surroundings,” Saleta said.

With countless ‘one to watches’, Saleta is continuing his Nashsville journey and plans to keep going.

“Music is the one thing that has made me feel complete,” he concluded.

COMING to Yarram soon -prepareyourself for acultural experience to remember!

The National BoysChoirofAustralia (NBCA), atreble choircomposed of 34 of the finest young voices in the country, will perform in Yarram a week before touring regional centres in North Queensland.

Under the guidanceofNBCAArtistic Director, Mr Andrew Bainbridge, the Choir will perform at the Regent Theatre in Yarram at 3pm on September10.

“These boys, singing together, sound angelic. Their voices blend likeliquid gold. They are superb,”saidMrBainbridge,heapingpraise on the choristers.

Much of the credit, however, must go to Mr Bainbridge and his staff who have auditioned, trained and rehearsed these boys for at least two years before they graduated to the Performing Choir.

“At this concert, the Choir will be singing some uniquelyAustralian music.Two of my favourites are Two Chronometers and Waltzing Matilda,” Mr Bainbridge said.

“Two Chronometers, composed by Queenslander Colin Brumby, who sadly, died afew years ago, tells the story of how Captain Cook told the time on his journey of discovery to Australia.

“The second is atechnically-difficult arrangement by Australian composer, Ruth McCall.”

The boys sing in Indigenous language and employ unusual vocal techniques.

Mr Bainbridge said the National Boys Choir of Australia tour every year, locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

“The boys are really looking forward to this performance –asamI,” he said.

“Once their voices change, the boys can sing if they wish, with The Young Men’s Choir. The NBCA took up so much of their time for so long, learning songs, attending rehearsals and performances,that they missed it whentheir voices changed.

“The weekly rehearsals have paid off for them too because they’llalsobeperforming in Yarram and in 2024 will tour Japan.

“As they grow older, if they have the time, they can join the Old Boys Choir. So, singing can be part of their lives forever!

“When you hear the boys and men of all ages singing together, especially with an orchestra,

it’s absolutely mesmerising.”

These boys are the stars of tomorrow.

“Quite often boys from the choir will audition successfully and star in major musicals,” Mr Bainbridge said with atouch of pride in his voice.

“If you live near Yarram, Iurgeyou to attend this performance.”

Tickets are availableattrybooking.com/events/ landing/1088427 or at nationalboyschoir.com. au/events/

Young Men’s Choir.Infront,fromleft:Oliver, David,Nathan, Ethan, Riki

Performing Choir -Infront,fromleft to right: Jezra,Trin, Alexander, Carter and Jayden.

Photos: Contributed

Nashville-based MichaelSaletaisa musician born and raisedinSale. Photo: Savannah Grimm andNashville Songwriters Association International

Zaffar

Feizi

Dr.Naima Ahmed

Gippsland youth receivea taste of anew energy future

AJOBS and skills expo focused on new energy and designated specifically to the region’s youth was the precursor to the Gippsland New Energy Conference this year.

The New Energy Conference was held in Sale last week.

Hundreds of secondary school students from Sale, Yarram and Maffra through to Lakes Entrance were energised by the offerings at this year’s Gippy Youth -New Energy Summit, the second of its kind in as many years.

TAFE Gippsland Business Partner for New Energy and event organiser Shannon Egan said the summit was agreat success.

“Last year was the inaugural conference and as part of that the organisers wanted astudent event, which involved 25 students,” Shannon said.

“This year, we wanted astandalone event, so we started to hatch aplan around how many renewableenergy proponents we could get in the one room and where it would be.

“Jaide Stevensfrom GELLEN did all the organising of the schools and Idid all the organising of thestall holders. Ash Hall from Latrobe Valley Authority oversawthe works. We had aworking

40 years of V/Line

group with people from Federation University, different shire councils and the likes all helping out, which has made today such asuccess.”

With more than300 students doing the rounds of the Sale Memorial Hall, vendors were certainly kept busy talking all things new energy and about the plethora of job opportunities opening up in this emerging industry.

“All the stall holders are telling me how good the engagement has been with the students and how positive it’s been,” Mr Egan said.

“The students are just excited to see that there are actuallypeople who careabout the planet and that things are actually being done. It’s just been that positive energy that’s driven it along.”

The Gippsland Tech School also lead abreakout session on how they are advancing STEAM opportunities and new energy career insights with young people in outer Gippsland through the Mobile Tech School outreach facility.

“It’s such agreat collaboration between the region’s industry, local business to get the word out about what we’re doing in Gippslandtochange the way we work and how we think in the new energy space,” Mr Egan concluded.

Stefan Bradley

V/LINE is celebrating 40 years of getting Victorians around our state –withaGippslandlocal reminiscing about his time working at Sale Station before and after the brand’s beginning.

The V/Line brand launched on August 21, 1983 by then-Transport Minister Steve Crabb, with a bright orange train uniform and green and white V/Line logo at Spencer Street Station Formerly known as theVictorian Railways,today V/Line has more than 2,250railand 1,500coach services operating each week, with the107thVLocity train recently being introduced into service.

Customer Services Manager -East, George Kircos, joined Victorian Railways as aStation Assistant at Sale in 1977, at the age of 18.

Mr Kircos worked his way up through various rolesatV/Line, includinga Signal Assistant, Assistant Stationmaster, Stationmaster, Regional Salesrep, to his current role of Customer Services Manager, East.Heremembers atimeearly in his career when he would put seat warmersin afurnace at the end of the platform and once they were heated, putting them in the first-class carriages to keep passengers warm.Passengers in economy had no heating.

“I joined the railways as aStation Assistant at Sale in 1977 andI’ve now been here for 46 years –I just love the job,” Mr Kircos said.

“I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many passengers along the way and getting to know them overalongperiod of time.Also the colleagues–over many years Ihave met, worked with and forged lifelong friendships.

“V/Line has been agreat place to work and develop arewarding career.”

Mr Kircosremembers seeing the new Sale Stationwhenitopened in December 1983, shortly after V/Line began.

“When we got to the new SaleStationin1983and walked through it, everything was orange –the walls, the carpet, the pens –itwas just amazing to walk from the old station into the new one,” Mr Kircos said.

One of the biggest changes forMrKircos has beenticketing, whichwas all manually done with ‘Edmondson Tickets’ before they made way for anew computerised ticketing and reservation system. He has also been part of atransformation of the network, with more services added to the Traralgon and Bairnsdale lines, which Mr Kircos expects will continue for years to come.

“It will be the current and future staff that will drive V/Line ahead over the next 40 years, with the same purpose of providing the community with the best possible public transport system and customer service that is safe, reliable and accessible for everyone,” he said.

V/Line Chief Executive Officer Matt Carrick said the anniversary was an important day to reflect on V/Line’s history, and said the future is bright for the regional rail operator.

Minister for Public Transport, Ben Carroll, shared asimilar sentiment.

“V/Line has had ahugeimpact on Victoriansover the past 40 years, providing critical connections across the state and supporting regional Victorians and their communities,” Mr Carroll said.

Geelong regional driverand supervisorJohn Mitchell has driven with V/Line for 40 years. He said V/Line had grown from asmall state railway system to alarge operator servicing communities far and wide.

“I’ve never regretted aday on the job at V/Line. Every day you are here is agood day –it’s really been afantastic journey. The metal ice box that Iused to drive from in winter or the hot box in summer is so different –today it’s comfortable and modern,” Mr Mitchell said.

Gippy Youth- NewEnergySummit working group Darren McCubbin, SharonRay,Jess Reeves, Brenton Peters, Mandy Neeve, Ash Hall, SidneyMurray, Jaide Stevens, Shannon Egan, Wendy Farmer,Michelle Kearns,Elise Watson, David Hood andPauleen Boulton.

Photo: Contributed

New series at Bond St

BOND StreetGallery in Sale willplayhost to work fromaninternationalartist, TomAberneithie, later this month in an exhibit curated by local Allison Yanez.

In his new series of work, ‘Decorative Bush’, Aberneithieengages with accepted notions of landscapepaintingbeing bothornamental yet chiming with deeper chords of nationalism,identity andconservation. The ten studies exhibited, developed from intuitive photographs taken around theGreat Ocean Roadand the Grampian area of Victoria, sitneatlywithinthe area between drawing and painting. Joyous in colour, the works celebrate the fertility of Australia’s land. Uponcloser inspection however, each piece is contrasted by rhinestonegemsapplieddecoratively within eachscene. These‘decorativebushes’ whilst professing the sublimity of nature, also riff on the traditions of aesthetic beauty. The plastic rhinestonespull you in, also posing important questions about oil derivatives, industrialmanufacturing and the imminency of deforestation.

Check it out from MondaySeptember 18 to MondayOctober 16 -byappointment only, call 03 5182 8770.

Aberneithie graduated in Fine Art La Trobe University Bendigo, Australia and studied Art History at Birkbeck College,Universityof London. He has been shortlisted for the New Contemporaries 2023, highly commended for ‘Ruth Borchard Self Portrait Prize 2021’, shortlisted in the ‘John Moores PaintingPrize 2018 and 2023’, and selected for the ‘Lynn Painter-Stainers Exhibition 2018’. Aberneithie has artwork in private collections in Australia, England, France, Argentina and China, and is also an independent art critic who is published by Round Lemon.

Mystery mayhem arises at KCCTheatre

Zoe Askew

AFTER asensationaldebut last year, KCC Theatre returns to Gippslandstages this month with their production of Agatha Christie’s classic whodunit Murder on the Orient Express KCC Theatre’sdebut production did not just exceed expectations but completely blew them away; the phenomenal, multifaceted, hilariously dark comedic rendition of Australian playwright Louis Nowra’sCosì mesmerising from start to finish.

Murder on theOrientExpress promises to be bigger and better, filled with mystery, mayhem and KCC Theatre’s signature dark comical twist transporting you to abygoneera of larger-than-life characters, twirling moustaches and three-piece suits.

KCC founders, directors, and actors Richard Kemp and Connor Hodges ambitioned to build on Cosi’s success and showcase aperiod piece, ultimately deciding on Agatha Christie’s classic whodunit Murder on the Orient Express “Cosi was like adrop in the ocean compared to the challenge of what Murder on the Orient Express is, and that’s what excited us aboutit,”Kemp said. “Late last year, once we finished our Cosi tour, we got together, and you do that thing where you are kind of riding the high of your previous tour; what are we going to do? What can happen now?

“Connor and Ismashed ourheads together and decided on this idea of something that requires you to go all in -set, costume, every character hasanaccent, whichisa total departure from what Cosi was.”

Amystery was amust.

“We knew we wanted to do aperiod piece, and we knewthat we wanted to do some sort of mystery,” Hodges said

“Something thathas the audiencethinking throughout the show. We were butting our heads againstwhat sort of mystery, murder mystery, do we do. What sort of showdowedothat encourages that dynamic with the audience?”

Emotions highatSale

And so it was decided KCC Theatre would put its unique flare on Ken Ludwig’s adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express KCC Theatre’s production of Murder on the Orient Express follows famous detective Hercule Poirot, played by Kaleb Moore, who is called back from Istanbul to London on urgent business.

Detective Poirot secures afirst-class ticket on a peculiarly busy Orient Express with the assistance of his formerfriend and colleague, Orient Express trainmanager Constantine Bouc, played by Richard Kemp.

While aboard the Orient Express, Poirot meets ahost of peculiar characters. Princess Natalia Dragamiroff, an aging Russian princess and her Swedishcompanion, Greta Ohlsson. AHungarian countess, Countess Elena Andrenyi, aSouthern housewife,aScottishcolonel, an English governess, aFrench conductor, adisagreeable American businessman, and his anxious secretary.

Alifeless bodywith numerousstabwoundsis discovered in alocked train compartment after a snowdrift halts the Orient Express.

With apossible killer in their midst, Detective Poirot is tasked to solve the murder, with investigations, conflicting clues and convoluted alibis repeatedly leading him to dead ends.

“We talk about athree-year plan, and without going too far into it, you’ve got to be careful as a budding theatre company because thereissomuch theatre now post-COVID, whichisbrilliant, but we have always operated on the model of unique is more,” Kemp said

“So the idea that you can offer something that audiences don’t expect, in no way, shape or form am Itryingtodiscredit any other theatrecompany that does what they do, but we look at plays a little differently,maybe witha whatwould an audience want view and we deliberately picked ashow (Murder on the Orient Express)that on the surface looks like it’s going to be serious and humdrum and alittle bit by the book and ours isn’t.

“We immediately flipped the script, we’ve rewritten scenes, we’ve added scenes, we’ve put things in therethat even an audience whothinks they’re

coming alongtosee aChristie novel and love the novel will hopefully still love what we do but are totally unexpectedand taken aback by thehumour we add to it, the layers we add to it.”

To say you don’t want to miss this is an understatement. So climb aboard the Orient Express and let KCC Theatre blow your expectations away in what is anticipated to be another five-star performance.

KCC Theatre’s Murder on the OrientExpress Gippsland Tour beginsatGarnsey Hall in Sale, with showsonSeptember15and 17

Tickets are available here: www.trybooking com/CKVCS

KCC Theatre will perform theirrenditionof

Agatha Christie’s classicwhodunnit in Bairnsdale at the Forge Theatre on September 22. Tickets are available here: www.trybooking. com/CKJVA

KCC Theatre willconcludethe Murder on the Orient Express Gippsland Tour in Traralgon with performancesatthe Little Theatre on October 21.

To find out more and for the most up-to-date information, head to KCC Theatre’s socials.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/

KCCTheatreProductions

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theatrekcc

CASTLIST:

Hercule Poirot - Kaleb Moore

Constantine Bouc - RichardKemp

Mary Debenham - Gracie Smit

Hector MacQueen - Mate Zilenko

Michel the Conductor - Hayden John

Princess Natalia Dragamiroff - Natalia Gojevic

GretaOhlsson - AbbyKemp

Countess Elena Andrenyi - Chentelle Peck

Helen Hubbard- AbbyLee

Colonel James Arbuthnot - Connor Hodges

AN emotional drama is next on the agenda for the Sale Film Society.

September’s picture of choice is The Whale, which tellsofanobese Englishteacher (Brendan Fraser) struggling with his health and relationships.

Secretary of the Society, Tom Parry is confident that that picture will be awinner with members.

“Audiences across the worldhavepositively responded to the movie, despite it receiving amixed response from critics,” Parry said.

“Although it possesses some elements that make for uncomfortable viewing, we’re sure thatour local audience will appreciate The Whale for its acting and heartbreaking script.”

The Whale wasnominated in three categories at the 95th Academy Awardsearlier this year, winning two: Best Makeup and Hairstyling, and Best Actor for Brendan Fraser’s lead performance as Charlie.

“Fraser has been struggling to land roles in recent years, owing to his own struggles with chronic injuries and mental health,” Parry said.

“Much of the pain and anxiety he feels has been channelled into the role of Charlie, and it shows.

“His Oscar is very much deserved.”

The screening shall take place on Tuesday, September 5from 7.30pm at The Wedge. Entry is free for all Societymembersand $10 for non-members.

Prospectiveattendeesare encouraged to arrive half an hour early to purchase adrink at Shirley’s Café and Bar, and to mingle with their fellow movie buffs.

For more information on the Society, visit the official webpage: salefilmsociety.wordpress. com

Image: Madman Films/A24

Decorative Bush by TomAberneithie.

Photo: Contributed

Youwon’t want to miss this train ride. KCCTheatreputs itsveryown spin on Agatha Christie’s classic whodunnit Murder on theOrient Express.

Photo: Contributed

PROUDLYBROUGHT TO YOUBYTHESE PARTICIPATINGLOCAL BUSINESSES

Crossword Puzzle No.8550

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. What position did the Matildas finish in the World Cup?

2. Who sang the song ‘Uptown Funk’?

3. What is Superman’sKryptonian name?

4. In the phonetic alphabet, what wordrepresents the letter ‘T’?

TWO POINTERS

5. If Iwas visiting the town of Victor Harbor what State/ Territory would Ibein?

6. What type of animal breed is an Abyssinian?

7. True or false. Acrophobia is afear of water?

8. Traditionally,the parts of what animal is used to make Haggis?

THREE POINTERS

9. Who plays the part of Morpheus in ‘The Matrix’ movies?

10. What does the acronym I.Q. stand for?

11. What is the capital of Austria?

12. What is another name for your jaw bone?

FOUR POINTERS

13. Wherewould you find atroglodyte living?

14. Mickey Mouse had which original first name?

FIVE POINTER

15. Guess the songs from these misheardlyrics? One point for each correct answer

1. Hold me closer,Tony Danza.

2. There’sabathroomonthe right.

3. This is the dawning of the age of asparagus.

4. Poppadom peach.

5. I’ll never leave your pizza burning.

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.0174

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, apostrophes or

Sudoku No.0174

Howtoplay...

Fill the grid so thateveryrow and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1to9 Solution page 35

Gippslandfamilies encouraged to join GenVinstudy Supporting recovery

LATROBE Regional Health is looking for families with bubs born between 4October 2021 and 3October this year to take part in Australia’s largest nationalbirth and parent study.

Generation Victoria, or GenV, is gathering information for researchers to complete apicture of the health and wellbeing of ageneration.

Theproject is following babies and theirparentstohelpsolve problems like asthma, food allergies, obesity, and mental illness.

So far, nearly2000Gippsland families have signed up to GenV, joining more than 100,000 families statewide.

GenV is being led by the Murdoch Children’sResearch Institute, supported by the Royal Children’s Hospital, and has partnered with all Victorian birthing hospitals, including LRH.

GenVGippslandarea manager, Denise Lawlor, said inclusivity was at the heart of the project, meaning all parents living in Victoria with a baby born within the eligibility period could take part.

This included families whose first language is not English, regional families, fathers and other parents who are under-represented, or who may be unable to take part in other research projects.

Ms Lawlor said families had been

“We hope as many Gippsland families as possible join us to be able to look for trends and patterns in this community in the years to come,” she said.

“For example, we frequently hear families connect with GenV’s vision because of health conditionsthat might affect their family.

“The more families that take part, the more we can understand families liketheirsand ultimately help us better prevent, predict and treat problems families face.”

Participating families are sent a shortsurvey up to fourtimes ayear, that takes afew minutestocomplete.

Whensigning-up, families provide theircontact details and some basic information, and can also consent to an optionalsalivasample to support biological research.

Ms LawlorstressedGenV protects participants’privacy by removing identifying details from the research.

“GenV takes very little of families’ time but has the potential to make huge differences to many families going forward, potentially even their own,” she said.

GenV is led by the Murdoch Children’s ResearchInstitute, supported by the Royal Children’s Hospital and University of Melbourne and funded by the Paul Ramsay Foundation,Victorian Government and the Royal

VICTIM-SURVIVORS of family,domestic and sexual violenceinGippsland will be the focus of anational pilot project with$10.6 million targeted at providing recovery care.

Gippsland Primary Health Network (Gippsland PHN) is one of only six Primary Health Networksnationally to receive the Australian Government funding to pilot the ‘Supporting Recovery’ projectwith the region experiencing some of the highest rates of family, domestic and sexual violence in Victoria.

The government announced last year it would invest $67.2 million over four years from 2022-2023 to pilot anew model of caretoimprove coordination and access to trauma-informed recovery services for victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence.

Gippsland PHN Acting Chief Executive Officer Angela Jacob said the funding was an endorsement of the critical need to supportalocal system under increasingpressure and an excellent submissionthat indicated the need in Gippsland.

“Local case management services remain overwhelmed with long waiting lists due to high rates of family violence,and the workforce continues to experience burnout and turnover,” Mrs Jacob said.

Gippsland PHN has proposed a collaborativeapproach,partnering with Quantum Support Services, the Gippsland Family ViolenceAlliance and Gippsland Women’sHealth with the pilot program focusing on Latrobe City and Baw Baw Shire. Allthree organisations wrote letters of support for the Gippsland submission.

Mrs Jacob said there was currently a veryhighdemandfor family violence casemanagementservices, with limited

it is proposed the pilot geographical locations for this project are the Latrobe and Baw Baw LocalGovernment Areas,” she said.

“These LGAs are currently experiencing the longestcase management waiting lists in Gippsland, in addition to high rates of family, domestic and sexual violence incidents.”

The high rates of family violence outlined in the recent Gippsland PHN Health Needs Assessment2022-2025 indicate that Gippsland is undergoing adomestic violence epidemic,with recurring yearly figuresshowingarising trendand an absence of azero-tolerance approach.

Mrs Jacob said high rates of family, domestic and sexual violence incidents in Gippsland were compounded by mental health distress, substance use, homelessness and welfare concerns.

“Access to trauma-informed mental healthinterventions is limited,” she added.

“State funding for specialised family, counselling demand, often ivors being support they need. help meet the

current needs for therapeutic interventions as well as build future capacity and capability to deliver family,domestic and sexual violence support in the region.”

Gippsland PHN’s submission proposes embeddingaLocal Care Team with Quantum Support Services in Latrobe and Baw Baw, expanding existing case management and care coordination services and enabling increased capacity to respond to and reduce current waiting time for service.

The project will also commission family, domestic and sexual violence trauma-informed therapeuticservices, working under the Victorian Government’s recently published framework for trauma-informed practice.

Mrs Jacob said work would start immediately, withthe project up and running in three to six months.

“We have collaboratedwithkey partners in developing this submission and also on previous work,” she said.

“Theyare allasexcited as we are to secure this funding and committed to developing asustainable model of care for other regions to follow that will supportvictim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence in their recovery.”

Gippsland PHN Acting ChiefExecutive, Angela Jacob andGippsland Family Violence Alliance Principal Strategic Advisor,Kim Page. Photos:Contributed

O’Brien calls for dedicated line

ZoeAskew

THERE is no denyingthat theGippsland train line is far from perfect.

You are more likely to spot coaches at the Sale Railway Stationthan you are trains, with coaches replacing the three daily V/Line passenger rail services, an increasingly common occurrence.

For years, the Wellington Shire community has called for increased rail servicesbetween Sale and Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station, as the current three-traindaily schedule has remained the same for more than 30 years despite the continuously increasing population.

In early August, about100 passengerstravelling on the 1:23pm V/Line service fromMelbourne to Bairnsdale were stuck on the train for three hours, from about 2.15pm until 5.10pm, following a breakdown between FlindersStreet andRichmond stations.

Thetrain was already behind schedule, arriving at Flinders Street from Melbourne’s Southern Cross station 30 minutes late owing to atrespasser on the lines.

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, DannyO’Brien, said the incident has caused frustrationamong Gippslandrail userstoreach boiling point, with the local MP renewing calls for adedicated Gippsland Line.

But with no existing rail corridor from Gippsland into thecityfor adedicated Gippslandline, providing adedicated line would require the destruction of thousands of homes and businesses and cost tens of billions of dollars.

It would also require replacing V/Line trains as diesel trains cannot operate in extended tunnels.

The most recent statistics, published in July, showed V/Line Gippsland services had the worst punctuality in the state, with just 87 per cent of trains arriving on time.

Mr O’Brien said delayscould be avoidedif Gippslandwas given adedicatedlinethrough Melbourne’s suburbs, like the Regional Rail Link that services Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo.

“I’ve long advocatedfor Gippsland to receive a dedicated line to prevent the delays experienced by rail users when the trainsinevitably get caught behind metro trains past Pakenham,” Mr O’Brien said.

“I have been asking the Minister for years to at least undertake afeasibility study for adedicated Gippsland Line, to even look at putting in maybe a couple of additional passingloops, maybe atunnel at the most congested areas.

“Each time, it has been clear that the Andrews Labor Government has no intention of even considering it.”

The state governmenthighlighted that at the election less than 12 months ago, the Liberals and Nationals had an opportunity to commit to improving the Gippsland line and committed to nothing.

The main point of congestion on the corridor, causing Gippsland line delays, is between Dandenong and Melbourne City.The state government claims Mr O’Brien hadyet to offerasinglesuggestion as to where apassing loop could be constructed through this corridor.

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh MP noted that the National Party are still very well remembered in Gippsland for teaming up with Jeff Kennett to close the Gippsland line, which was reopened by aLabor Government.

“The Nationalsand Liberals teamed up again at the election last year with not asinglecommitment

to improve the Gippsland line,” Mr McIntosh said.

“In contrast, the Andrews Labor Government is getting on with arange of major rail projects that will allow more trains to run with improved reliability to all locations in Gippsland.

“The regional fare cap is making it easier and more affordable for Gippsland passengers to travel by railorbus acrossVictoria.We’ve also committed to introduce interpeak weekend services to Traralgon and athird Sunday service to Bairnsdale.”

Mr O’Brien says the billions of dollars that the stategovernment has spent on metropolitan-level crossing removalsmeans that afullydedicated Gippsland line is likely out of reach.

“The Skyrail that has been built to remove level crossings on the Cranbourne-Pakenhamlinemeans it would be virtually impossibletonow put in a fully dedicated Gippsland line,” he said.

“I am not opposed to the removal of level crossings, but Iamopposed to all our moneybeing spent

on metro projects that cruel our future transport options and give us nothing but disruptions and delays.”

Projects, including the Gippsland Line Upgrade, separating V/Lineand Metro services by extending the Pakenham line to Pakenham Eastand removing every level crossing between Pakenham and the city will improve Gippsland services.

The Gippsland Line Upgrade is delivering anew signalling system, which will enable additional services between Traralgon and Melbourne in conjunction withtrack worksand station upgrades already delivered as part of the project.

According to the Department of Transport and Planning, the upgradewill enable trains every 40 minutes between Traralgon and Melbourne between the peaks and more reliable services on the Gippsland Line, boosting the local economy and creating more than 500 jobs.

Planningwork is underway to support the phased introductionofalmost 200 extraservices from 2024 onwards, including increasing weekend services on the Traralgon Line to every 40 minutes between 8am and 9pm anda thirdSundayservice to Bairnsdale.

The Department of Transport and Planning emphasisedthat the Gippsland Line Upgrade has already delivered significant benefits to passengers,with level crossing upgrades between Sale andBairnsdale allowing VLocity trains to travel to Bairnsdale for the first time in 2018 and anew rail bridge over the Avon River in Stratford allowing trains to travel faster in late 2020.

With four tracks, the new East Pakenham Station will remove the significant bottleneck for V/Line and Metro trains withbypassand turn-back tracks, removingcongestion and improving service reliability for passengers.

The Department of Transport and Planning also noted that upon completion of the Metro Tunnel, the biggest upgradetothe Melbourne rail network sincethe City Loop, Gippsland Line passengers will be able to transfer at Pakenham, Dandenong or Caulfield onto aMetro Tunnel service. It will also give Gippsland Line passengers direct access to five new underground stations –Anzac on St Kilda Road; TownHall andState Library in the heart of the CBD;Parkville in Melbourne’s medical precinct; Arden in anew urban renewalcentre and on towards Footscray, Sunshine and Sunbury. Mr O’Brien said he would continue to advocate for more reliable and more frequent services past Traralgon on the Gippsland line.

First Peoples’ Assembly support Yesvote

WITH the Voice to Parliament referendum announced for October 14, the democratically elected ‘voice’ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderpeoples in Victoria, theFirst Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, has urged a‘yes’ vote position. Gunditjmara man and AssemblyCo-Chair Rueben Berg said that the referendum was about making sure Aboriginal people can have ameaningful say on Aboriginal affairs and the vast majority of Aboriginal people support the YES vote.

“Aboriginalpeople are the experts on ourown lives, we get far better outcomes when we are involved in creating the programs and policies that affect us,” said Mr Berg.

“VotingYES is confirmation that you want First Peoples to thriveand for our unique connection to this country to be recognised,respected and celebrated,” he added.

Wamba Wamba, Yorta Yorta, Dhudhuroa and Dja Dja Wurrung woman and Assembly Co-Chair,

Ngarra Murray, said winning the referendum and creating an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander VoicetoParliament wouldbeanimportant step forward in advancingthe rights of FirstPeoples across the country.

“Ourpeople have been fighting forrepresentation at anational level since the1930s. VotingYES will ensure our peoples’hopes, ideas and priorities can alwaysbeheard by the government of the day. Voting YES is achancefor everyone in Australia to showthey are readytocreate abetter future together,” said Ms Murray.

ANewspoll released over the weekend shows sliding support for The Voice. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has suggested asecond referendum to recognise First Nations people in the Constitution without establishing an independent advisory body through aVoice to Parliament if the October referendum fails.

Image: First Peoples’ Assembly

The NationalsMember for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien hasrenewed calls for adedicated Gippsland Line to prevent unnecessary delays.

Photo: Contributed

Comfortable home with plenty of charm

2Rhodes Drive is acomfortable and light filled home with an inviting front façade andwelcoming veranda that stretches along the home’s length.

Inside, aspacious living room features vaulted timber ceilings which add atouch of charm.

Natural light, split system and an open fireplace provide comfort in all seasons and create an inviting atmosphere.

Flowing from the living room, you’ll find adining area connected to alovely kitchen with good bench and storage space.

The three bedrooms are all agreat size, and all have built in robes for easy organisation. The master bedroom also has an ensuite with shower,vanity and toilet. A central family bathroom services the other bedrooms.

Solar panels have been installed to help save on electricity bills and create an energy efficient home.

For those who enjoy entertaining or just want to relax in the sun, the back deck and private paved area are ideal spots. The yard is secure with double side gates

Briefdetails

Property:Charming three-bedroom

Property: Charming three-bedr home

Address: 2Rhodes Drive, Sale ess: Driv

Price: $490,000

Contact: Julian McIvor,Wellington or,Wellington Real Estate, 0428 084 622 e, 084622

allowing easy backyard access. Adouble carport and garden shedding complete the picture, adding conveniencetothis home. Conveniently located only ashort walk to the Sale Showgrounds, Sale Greyhound Racing Track and Graze Bistro and just a short drive to Schools and the CBD. Contact us today to arrange an inspection.

Comfortableentry levelhome

Welcome to 23 Jones Street, Stratford -Located within easy walking distance to the many shops, cafes and services of the Stratford main street, this comfortable home provides agreat opportunity to purchase aneat and tidy entry level property

An inviting front façade leads into aspacious, light and bright interior and whilethe home has been well cared for,itstill provides plenty of opportunity for you to put you own stamp on it.

Property features includes:

 Three large bedrooms, one with built in robe;

 Generous lounge room with plenty of natural light. Enjoy the versatility of wood heating for cozy winters and air conditioning for optimal comfort during warmer months;

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 Practical family bathroom with shower and vanity,large laundry with separate toilet;

 Covered outdoor entertaining, and asecure low maintenance backyard;

 Convenient storage is at your fingertips with the inclusion of garden shedding:a2.4 x 3.1 shed and an additional 1.2 x1.2 shed;

 Keep your vehicle secure in the single carport, complete with aroller door foradded protection, and;

 Currently tenanted until September 23 with good rental return, making it agreat investment opportunity as well.

Briefdetails fdetails

Property:Three Bedroom Home Property: Three

Address: 23 Jones Street,Stratford Ad Str ,Stratford

Price: $395,000

Contact: Christine Haylock, Wellington Real Estate, 0417 007 336 llington 007

well kept home is super neatand tidy throughout and readyfor youtomoveintofortheholidayseason.

•Withanopen plan split level living area with the lounge area on the bottom with aview over the verandah to theback yard.

•Each of the bedrooms areofa generous size.

ashortwalk from the water and directly across the road from theCommunityHall,Tennis Courts and Playground

•Located in Ibis Courtisthis solid brick home only astone's throw from Lake Glenmaggie

Lifestyle property with beautiful vineyard

Set privately overlooking the Macalister River,LakeGlenmaggie and the foothillsofthe Great Dividing Rangethis Italian-Farmhouse-inspired home built in 2010 is perfectly blended with its surroundings. Rawand natural features are dominant throughout withexposedaggregate polished concrete floors,timber feature walls and brick highlights.The heart of the home once again makes the most of the views with awell-appointed kitchen, dining area and a spacious lounge room with open fireplace. The property is tastefully landscaped which joins the inside to the out. Tiered entertaining zones which all enhance the views and wind down to the swimmingpool.The vineyard has approximately 300 established Fiano vinesthat produce approximately 250 bottlesofwhite wine in the styling of aChardonnay or Riesling

Sitting and overlooking the beautiful surrounds whileenjoying aglassofyourvery own wine from your vineyard would be such awonderful experience.

Afurther luxuriously appointed bunkhouse has been acleveraddition, working perfectly for the extended family andguests. Alarge dam on the south side of theblock and a further building by the river allows for yet more entertaining space.

Approximately two-and-a-half hoursfrom Melbourne,this could well be the lifestyle change you have been looking for

Briefdetails

plus study,2bathrooms

with gas heater and split system air conditioner

*Updated kitchen featuring gas stove

*Solar

room, double carport plus 9m x6mshed

Bombers gallant in defeat

Paul

Nichols

AN unlikely victory almost occurred in the FootballNetballEastGippsland senior football Grand Final at the weekend.

Boisdale-Briagolongsuccumbed to Wy Yung by a mere nine points, 6.11 (47) to 5.9 (39) at Bairnsdale City Oval.

Going into the game with the underdogtag, there wasaslight confidence in the air for the Bombers. Having defeated Wy Yung once already this year and come close in the other home-andaway encounter,the Bombers knew what they had to do to get the job done and break a22-year premiership drought.

Boisdale-Briagolong playing-coach Sam Bedggood surprised afew early on, starting Tom ‘Junior’ Bradshaw in the ruck.

“We wantedtohave extra midfielder in there and try to take advantage of them in that area,” he explained.

Arisky move that almost paid dividends, as the Bombers were able to shut down the run of the young Wy Yung side early on.

It started off hopeful for the Bombers, as Caleb Calwynrepeated what he haddone most of the year, wtith astrong overheard mark and agood kick to get the first goal of the game.

From there, Wy Yung managed to keep the ball in their forward half for the majority of the first quarter. The Tigershowever struggled to put scoreboard pressure on as their inside 50 entries left alot to be desired.

Brodie Cameron,anoted goal-kicker forthe Tigers, electing to pass laterally with a20metre kick rather than have ashot from inside 50 himself was an example of some poor decision makingfrom the Wy Yung forwards.

The Bombers’ defensive unit capitalised on this and was holding up strong.

It was jitteryfootball fromboth sides, with a number of turnovers from running over the ball, missed marks, and players unable to keep their feet.

Perceived pressure from playing in aGrand Final.

Boisdale-Briagolong captainJim Reeves made sure the umpire saw ahigh tackle applied to him, capitalising on a50metre penalty as his helmet was ripped off and thrown awaybyaWyYungplayer in aminor scuffle following the tackle. Reeves made full use of the opportunity, slotting the second for the Bombers.

Boisdale-Briagolongseemedtohave settled first andled with the wind in the first quarter 2.3 (15) to 1.2 (8).

Coming into the second quarter, it was clear the Bombers had aplan for league best-and-fairest Marcus Hottes, as he was unabletomakemuch of an impact

Bedggoodnoted they hada plan to apply aclose tag to him for the majorityofthe game through Daniel Johnson and Matt Simmonds.

Boisdale-Briagolong’s forward looked dangerous against the wind, but were unable to have any score impact as Cameron was able to get the first for the quarter, with what was Wy Yung’s first genuine forward entry for the game.

Wy Yung had swung momentum and looked to capitalise, and there was afeeling that if they got asmall run they could cause some serious damage. Afree kick in the square gifted Bayden Ashwood agoal and Wy Yung the lead for the first time of the match, alead they’d hold onto.

Reeves,the Bombers mostlikely forward option, was caught too high up the ground on multiple occasions to be able to impact the scoreboard.

Billy Marshall receivedsome accidental headhigh contact, coming from the ground with blood streaming from his nose just before the end of the half.

At halftime,WyYungwas in front 3.4 (22)to 2.5 (17).

The third term started in acongested pressure situation, with Ashwood’s goal of the day effort

as he snapped over his shoulder as he was swung around from aBedggood tackle.

An undisciplined50metre penaltyfrom the centre square gave the Tigersanotherchance shortlyafter, but they were unable to convert.

There was danger that Boisdale-Briagolong would succumb to the niggles and losecontrol,but to their credit remained level-headed.

Boisdale-Briagolong reduced the margin through a50metre penaltyfor BrendanRathnow, with the umpires heavyonto the back chat. But the reduced margin didn’t last long as Wy Yung responded straight back.

Wy Yung lead 5.8 (38) to 3.8 (26) at threequarter time.

Bedggood was vocal at three quarter time, asking for one more effort from his playing group.

“Twenty-two years comes down to these last 25 minutes” anode to the last time the Bombers won asenior premiership, Tactically, it was about maintaining structure and keeping pressure on the ball.

The Bombers responded and there was aglimmer of hope as they kicked the first of the last to get within seven points.

Wy Yung,using the switch deep inside their defensive 50, were unable to move it past the half forward line, giving the Bombers plenty of chances to score, however they were unable to take them.

It was back-and-forth in the last, and when the final siren sounded, jubilation for the Tigers and for the Bombers, moments of what could have been. This wasn’t the year for Boisdale-Briagolong, and maybe they neededtolose one in order to win one.

With awooden spoon finish last year, the Bombers have now gotten so close to having both

handsonthe cup that you’d expectthey’d want redemption next year, adrive and determination to end a23-year drought.

It’s been acrackingseason of football in East Gippsland this year, areal pleasure to watch. Thanksfor readingaswesign offfor 2023, I’llbe back in 2024 with more.

Editor’s note: My thanks to Paul ‘Pickles’ Nichols for his contributions this season.His work hasreally helped improve the coverage of East Gippsland football in the Gippsland Times, something that was certainly lacking in previous years. This was simply due to not having someone available.

Macy Fulford and Willow Baranowski cheer on theirdad’s in the reserves Grand Final.

Bombers captain Jimmy Reeves duringthe Grand Final.

Caleb Calwyn kicks forgoal.

Boisdale-Briagolong players run out forthe Grand Final.

Photos: Zoe Askew

Reeling in new projects

Moresnags willbeaddedtothe Gippsland Lakes to increase fish habitat for flagship species suchasbream, estuary perch and Australian bass as apartof12new projects funded through thereinvestment of fishing licence fees.

THE GippslandLakesand its recreational fishers will benefitfrom12new projects funded throughthe reinvestment of fishinglicence fees

More snags will be addedtothe Gippsland Lakes to increase fish habitat for flagship species suchasbream, estuary perchand Australian bass.

The VictorianFisheries Authority will also monitorrecreational catches in PortPhillip, Western Port, Corner Inlet and the Gippsland Lakes and produce the Recreational Fishing Guide, fish rulers and measures for abalone, Murray crays and rock lobster.

The Minister for Outdoor Recreation, Sonya Kilkenny, said the state government had reinvested more than $1.6 million to create more fish

Farmers sought to test digital safety solutions

AUSTRALIA’S first comprehensive active farm safety research program is due to be launched by national digital safety solutions specialist, AirAgri and is seeking 1000 of the nation’s landholders to be involved.

This ground-breaking program, the 1000 Farm SafetyProject,isset to run throughout 2024, with the aim to recruit 1000 properties across Australia to take part at no cost to them, and to transform how Australians protect their farming families, employees and teammates.

habitat, education, research, access and facilities.

“Investing fishing licencefees into worthwhile projects will ensureVictoria’s fantasticfisheries continue to go from strength to strength,” Ms Kilkenny said.

“We recognise the benefits of recreational fishingfor tourism, wellbeing and relationships –which is why we’re investing more than ever into better facilities, piers, boat ramps, fishing clubs and hatcheries.”

Over the next fouryears, the stategovernment aims to invest more than$96 million to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture. For more information, visit vfa.vic.gov.au/ fishinggrants.

AirAgri co-founder James Diamond said adiverse selection of agricultural businesseswere sought to provide an equal representative of the industry.

“This ambitiousproject is 100 per cent funded and run by Australians, underscoring our commitment to local industry and homegrown innovation,” Mr Diamond said.

“All collected data will be exclusively handled by our Australian team, ensuring total privacy and domestic control.

“The program has ahands-on approach to safety with benefits including property specific weather and automated inductions at property level.”

In addition to seeking commercial support from the industry and private sector, AirAgri will deploy and run acutting-edge software solution on all 1000 farms for 12 months, free of charge.

Mr Diamond said the program would focus on delivering property-specific dataatthe right time throughthe most effective channels to aid in safe and sustainable decision making.

“Participating farmers will have access to precision weather insights and alerts like never before, enabling them to make saferand more accurate decision based on their property rather than district level,” he said.

“This pioneering new technology also addresses mentalhealth concerns by using one of the world’s first software medical devices, currently in the final stages of Food and Drug Administration and Therapeutic Goods Administration approval, designed to aid in diagnosing mental health issues in rural Australia.

“We believe this is asignificantmilestone for the entire industry and is exclusive to AirAgri.

“AirAgri can implement active farm safety alerts and alarms for lone workers, regardless of existing connectivity, removingthe unwantedanxiety when loved ones are late back to the house.”

Earlier this year, AirAgri launched amobile app whichworks in conjunction with apocket-sized iOT (Internet of Things) tracking device.

The tracking device uses the Telstra Cat M1 network, giving extended coverage across Australia.

“AirAgri provides aseries of automated safety notifications using proprietaryrules, location, emergency and medical information, along with access to inventory and safe handling working documents like adigital filing cabinet sitting on the farmer’s phone,” Mr Diamond said.

“We are actively seeking to engage and roll out this technology ultimately designed to save lives and bring Aussie farming families home at the end of every day.

“Werealise everyfarmisdifferent and that is why we have put out the call to 1000 farmers to put their hand up -whether they are broadacre or livestock. We want acollective group we can work with on the project for 12 months, measuring the success and working with them to build more proactive safety tools.”

AirAgrihas been successful in being selected to completeFarmers2Founders Hatched and Honed program alongwiththe “Rocket Seeder” pre-acceleration program, co-funded by LaunchVic and Agriculture Victoria.

AirAgri was announced on August 17 as one of seven grant recipients from the AgTech Grants program, which offers equity free $50,000 grants to aspiring AgTech founders.

For more information on the 1000 Farm Safety Project or to register your interest,visit: www.airagri.com.au/ apply-for-the-1000-farm-safety-project-in-2024/

AirAgriprincipals Jamesand Paul Diamondare seeking 1000 Australianfarmers to be involved in road testing aproject to build moreproactive safety tools.

Photo:Contributed

Photo: Contributed

Photos: Contributed

Iguana Creek trail ride

THE recent August Tambo Upper Trail Riding Clubride wasat‘TheBarn’ at Calajero on Iguana Creek.Somemembers arrivedonFriday and Saturday to take advantageofthe overnight facilities at ‘The Barn’.

The Sunday ride had 20 riders saddle up for the day.Members attendedfrom far afield, Nyora in the west right throughtoLakesEntrancein the east.

The route featured shaded gullies, rocky creeks with tree ferns and high ridges with great views.

The horses moved along nicely, andtherewas lots of chatter among the group, enjoyingeach other’s company and the environment.

The terrain was rocky and steep in places, keeping the horses focused on the job, with plenty of natural obstacles and challenges to negotiate safely.

After abreak for lunch, the horses sensed they were headed for home and picked up the pace; however, all soon settled and fell into agood, steady gait.

On returning to the floats,the horses were tended to first before the riders enjoyed adelicious afternoon tea. Floats were loaded,and the group headed off home after achallenging and satisfying day.

Tony Burgess is leading the September Ride at 630 Rodericks Road, Flaggy Creek, on Sunday, September17. The ride will head into the adjacent Mount Alfred State Forest, abundant with riding tracks and trails.

Horses need to be shod or booted due to rocky terrain. The riders will attend apre-ride muster at 9.45am before heading out for the day. Please bring asaddlebag lunch.

For more details on the ride, contact theclubpage:

Carbon EDGE for neutrality

MEAT&Livestock Australia has launched anew program called Carbon EDGE for Australian red meatproducers. This is in additiontothe industry’s well-knownEDGE network training program including Business EDGE, BreedingEDGE, Nutrition EDGE and GrazingLandManagement EDGE.

The red meatindustrysays its targetto achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 (CN30) will onlyberealised withthe adoption of emissions avoidanceand carbonstorage practicesand technologies. Although thereiswide interest in thesepractices and technologies, producers have indicated that they are looking for more information to make senseofthe options available to them and how these could be applied within their businesses.

According to MLA’s program manager for adoption,Sally Leigo, the development of a Carbon EDGE training packagewill address theknowledge and skill gap.

Carbon EDGE will run over two days and will provide independent research and fact-based information.

It has been developed by aworking group of producers, advisers, and technicalexpertsfrom across Australia.

The program is for grass-fed beef, sheep and goat producers who are looking to build on their understanding of carbon. The program will helpparticipants develop their understanding of carbon andmoveinto aplanningand action phase,identifying practices and technologies thatcould be incorporatedinto theirbusiness to benefittheir bottomline and the environment.

It is also suitable foradvisers and other service providers looking to enhance their understanding of the current operating environment.

Five pilot workshops for Carbon EDGE are planned to take place, with the first last month (August)before afull rollout of the program in 2024. The pilot workshops will be held in Central Victoria, Western New South Wales, Central Queensland, Southern Western Australia and the fifth location will be later confirmed.

Register an expression of interest to participate in the Carbon EDGE pilot workshops. Availability for pilot workshops will be limited. Find out more at CarbonEDGE

www.facebook.com/groups/330515633703313/

Tambo rides are hosted on the third Sunday of everymonth and are suitable for riders of most standards.

Visitors are welcome, and juniors are also

encouraged but must be accompanied by aguardian and able to ride independently.

For more information, call or text Caroline Driscoll on 0408 963 667 or Sue Cullinan on 0412 526 121.

Tony Burgess is leading theSeptember Ride on Rodericks Road, Flaggy Creek, on September17.

The August Tambo Upper Trail Riding Club ride wasatThe Barn at Calajero on Iguana Creek.

Gippsland League finals begin

Zaida Glibanovic

THE mighty Morwell Tigers started their Gippsland League finals campaign strongly, as they defeated Leongatha 48 to 40 in the qualifying final on Saturday at Wonthaggi.

TheParrots started off well,leading 14-12 at the first break.

Morwell coaches Tanya Budge and Rach Patterson must have had quite the speech during the break, as the Tigers showed atenacity made for finals -winning the quarter 17 to nine.

Scoringslowed in thethird quarter, but Morwell’s momentum continued, extending their lead to seven goals.

Morwell’s scoring power came evenly distributed between Claire Marks and Daisy Hill, shooting 23 and 25 goals respectively.

Though the Parrots gave the Tigers no breathing room, contesting everything in the last quarter keeping the game goal-for-goal, their second quarter lull became too hard to rectify, and Morwell ran away eight point winners.

Morwell will now play Moe at Morwell’s home court this Saturday, in the second semi-final for aspot in the big dance.

IN anail-biting affair, Drouin defeated Warragul 38 to 36 at Western Park in the elimination final.

The Gulls were knocked out of finals by astrongand resilient Drouin side.

The match began like mostdo- pretty even,but in the blink of an eye in the second quarter, the Gulls’ began a 12-goal charge and lead by three goals coming into halftime.

Drouin took the halftime break to settle themselves, and bounced back in the third, outscoring the Gulls by one. It may have been that the Warragul sideran out of gas,asDrouin putits foot down to win the last quarter 11 goals to seven.

The Hawks will now do battlewith Leongatha on Sunday at Maffra, with theloser set to go home.

Netball Scoreboard

EAST GIPPSLAND -GRAND FINAL

AGRADE:Stratford47d Wy Yung 34

BGRADE:Boisdale-Briagolong 31 dStratford24

CGRADE:Stratford31dBoisdale-Briagolong 27

DGRADE:WyYung38d Boisdale-Briagolong 21 17 AND UNDER:Lucknow 37 dWyYung21 15 AND UNDER:WyYung34d Lakes Entrance 19

NORTH GIPPSLAND -PRELIMINARYFINAL

AGRADE:Woodside 63 dSale City 45

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE -QUALIFYING FINAL

Briagbest in BGrade

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG defeated Stratford in the Football-Netball East GippslandBGrade GrandFinal at theweekendtowin their first B Grade premiership in 33 years.

The Bombers won 31 to 24.

Stratford led early in the piece,leading the Bombers ahead of the second quarter.

Boisdale-Briagolongclawed their way back to hold

the advantage heading into halftime. MollieHavers’ 2023 minor premiers were too good for Stratford, with the Bombers claiming the BGrade flag by seven points.

Boisdale-Briagolong wing defencePheobe Reagan was awarded best-on-court.

Stratford had better luck in the CGrade decider, defeating Boisdale-Briagolong 31-27.

The Swans took an early lead over the Bombers heading into the halftime break,ahead by seven goals, 18-11.

Boisdale-Briagolong dug deep for what can only be regarded as athunderous finish. Despite their best efforts, the Swans were too far in front for the Bombers to catch.

Stratford’s first-time CGrade coach, Emma Nowak, also won the BGrade title in 2022.

Last Saturday was the first time BoisdaleBrigaolong’s CGrade has ever played in aGrand Final.

Stratfordgoal attack/goal shooter Prue Nowak was awarded best-on-court.

GIPPSLAND

Zoe Askew

Boisdale-Briagolongwon theB Grade premiership afterdefeating Stratford31-24.

Photos: Zoe Askew

AvaPorter,Elsie Cameron andLevi Porterwere among Boisdale-Briagolong netball supporters at theEastGippsland Grand Final. Boisdale-Briagolong’s AGrade outfit wereD,C and BGrades sideline cheer squadatthe weekend.

Stratford’s Emily Morrison in theB Grade Grand Final. Stratfordwon theCGrade premiership afterdefeating Boisdale-Briagolong.

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PLACEANAD

5G UPGRADES TO EXISTING OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASESTATIONS IN WELLINGTON SHIRE LGA

1. Optus is proposing to upgrade the following existing facilities located at: PC377389 RYANS ROAD COONGULLA 3860 (OPTUS SITE ID: M1085) WWW.RFNSA.COM.AU/3860005

The proposed upgrade consists of the:

● Replacement of three (3) existing panel antennas with three (3) new panel antennas less than 2.8m in length;

● Replacement of three (3) existing remote units with nine (9) remote radio units; and

● The installation of ancillary equipment associated with the operation and safety of the facility.

GIPPSLAND WATER COMPOUND, PRINCESSHIGHWAY, LOT 1LP129479 STRATFORD VIC (OPTUS SITE ID: M1595) 3862 WWW.RFNSA.COM.AU/3862012

The proposed upgrade consists of the:

● Replacement of three (3) existing panel antennas with three (3) new panel antennas less than 2.8m in length;

● Replacement of nine (9) existing remote units with nine (9) remote radio units; and

● The installation of ancillary equipment associated with the operation and safety of the facility.

2. Optus regards the proposed installations as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 ("The Determination") based onthe description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Enquiries and/or comments should be directed to: SKYAUS Infrastructure on 1300 845 444, via email at optusplanning@skyaus.com.au or via mail at 188 Newton Road, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 by 19 September 2023.

0447 331 762. JMS PAINTING Servicing the Gippsland area with 19 years experience. Interior and exterior, new or old. For aprompt and reliable service contact Joe for anoobligation free quote. Phone 0477 232 706. LOCH SPORT DANCE At Sale Memorial Hall. Sunday, September 10. 1pm-4.30 pm. Music by:Bac to Bac. All welcome. Bring aplate to share. Enq. 0427 460 422. AGM City of Sale Eisteddfod Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday September 13 at 7.30pm at the Eisteddfod office, 1/10 Wade Court Sale. Everyone welcome. MARKET Maffco Gippsland Market Make, Bake, Grow Sunday September 10, Maffco Brewery & Distillery,Railway Place, Maffra. Food trucks, Kids Zone, Fresh Produce, Handmade, Live Music. MOTORING DEAL Advertise in the Gippsland Times and Latrobe Valley Express with our Atotal of 12 issues over amonth! $74*line ad with colour photo or $60*with no photo *Price includes headline plus 4lines of type. Each line thereafter $8.50 Cash or credit card only Howto placeyour advertisement Deadlines for classifieds CLASSIFIED GUIDELINES Tuesday’s paper before9:30amMonday Friday’s paper before9:30amThursday More options for placing classifieds inperson MaffraNewsagency NewryStore Heyfield Newsagency Car advertisers Private vendors of motor cars advertised for salemust includeintheir advertisement: -Cashpriceofmotor car -Ifcar is registered, registration number -Ifunregistered, the engine, vinorchassis number. Lost and found All ‘found’ advertisementsare published free Simply providethe details of yourfind for publication. ‘Lost’advertisements arepaid Photographs Photographs for Death and In Memoriam noticeswillcostaccording to thespace they use. Pleaseemailhigh resolution images to classifieds@gippslandtimes.com.au as we cannotaccept photosonamemorystick. Personal notices All engagement and marriage notices must carrythe signatures of BOTH parties. If under 18 the parents’ signatures as well. The publisher reserves the right to refuseadvertisements PHONE (03) 5143 9333 FAX (03) 5144 7308 E-MAIL classifieds@ gippslandtimes.com.au IN PERSON 74 Macalister St, Sale or newsagents CREDIT CARD FACILITIES We accept Livestock • Public Notices • Meetings • Situations Wanted • Public Notices • Accommodation Accommodation Wanted Lease To Let Business Opportunities Educatio cant Situation ents Fo al Lost Pet Cemetery Public Notice Religion Tenders 4WD Caravans Cars Machinery Phone: 5143 9333 Fax: 5144 7308 Email: classifieds@ gippslandtimes.com.au

PAKENHAM SPRING FEATURE

SALE

Thursday September14, 2023 @10am

Catholic College Sale

"Every Student, Every Day"

Applications are invited for the following:

VCE VM Coordinator (POL 3)

Applied Learning Teacher -Junior Technology (Woodwork)

Commencing in 2024.

Further information and application forms available at www.ccsale.catholic.edu.au

All applications are to be forwarded to principal@ccsale.catholic.edu.au

Applications Close: 4.00pm Thursday September 14, 2023.

2024Teaching Positions

St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School is seeking applications for the following positions:

Warragul Campus

Full-time or part-time, permanent ongoing

•VCE English, English Language or Literature

•VCE Accounting, Legal Studies, Business Management

•VCE History (Revolutions)

•VCE Health and Physical Education

•VCE Maths Methods

See full position descriptions and apply at stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Timefora change?

GP1661634

Leadership Positions

St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School is seeking applications for the following positions:

Director of Studies (Years 7-9)

Warragul Secondary School

Full-time, commencing 2024

Director of Learning and Teaching

Warragul Secondary School

Full-time, commencing 2024

Director of Learning and Teaching

Warragul Junior School

Part-time, contract, commencing 2024

See full position descriptions and apply at stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

GP1661394

Database Administrator (Synergetic)

Warragul Secondary School

Full-time, commencing as soon as possible

Personal Assistant to Deputy Principal Warragul Secondary School

Full-time, commencing as soon as possible

Business Administration Traineeship

Warragul Secondary School

Full-time, 12 month contract for 2024

See full position descriptions and apply at stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School is seeking applications for the following positions: GP1661393

Gippsland Hire Rigid Truck Driver Position

We are located at 14-16 Wellington Park Way, Sale. The role is delivery, collection and servicing of Portable Toilets and Showers.

To secure this position, you will require the following:

● Medium Rigid Truck Licence.

● Forklift and Crane Licences Preferred.

● Be reliable, punctual and self-motivated.

● Have agreat attitude and strong work ethic. Genuine applicants only. Please forward your resume to: info@gippslandhire.com.au or call (03) 5145 6954.

Administration Assistant

Due to growth in Business Ausure Insurance

Brokers is seeking amotivated and enthusiastic candidate to join the team at our Sale office.

We are along-standing business that has been servicing the diverse needs of our clients throughout the Gippsland region and beyond.

Duties include:

Assisting with general enquiries both phone and in person, computer data entry, emails and general administration work and assisting brokers prepare submissions.

This is afull-time position which requires:

● Knowledge of computer programs such as Word, Excel, Outlook.

● Good communication skills and presentation.

● Accuracy and close attention to detail.

● The ability to work to deadlines.

● Reliable and punctual attendance to all duties.

● Motivation and apositive can-do attitude. Training will be provided for specialist system operations.

To apply, please forward your resume to: james.stevens@ausure.com.au and brad.silver@ausure.com.au

RECEPTIONIST

Sullivan Braham are looking to employ a dedicated Receptionist to join their team and be the face of the firm on afull-time basis.

This is afull time position, working 9.00am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday. The successful candidate will be responsible for all reception tasks, including:

● Answering and transferring calls;

● Ensuring the smooth running of the front desk;

● Meeting and greeting clients and visitors;

● Arranging client appointments;

● Running the Deed Register;

● Assisting with general administration and accounting tasks;

The capacity to work as part of ateam is essential along with the ability to show initiative and work unsupervised.

The successful applicant will have excellent verbal communication skills, be able to multitask and pay attention to detail. As the first point of contact for our clients you will require a consistent, professionaland welcoming demeanour.

Although not necessary, reception or legal industry experience would be advantageous.

Acompetitive salary will be negotiable, based on skills and experience.

Applications including aletter of introduction and CV should be addressed to James Sullivan, Sullivan Braham Pty Ltd, P.O. Box 599, Sale, Vic, 3850 (phone 03 5143 1999) or e-mail james.sullivan@sullivanbraham.com.au

Applications close: 5pm September 15, 2023.

1st or 2nd Yr Apprentice Chef

Excellent hours, working conditions and astrong supportive team

Email your resume to info@reddcatt.net.au or drop into 192 Raymond St, Sale 3850.

2024Teaching Positions

St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School is seeking applications for the following positions:

Traralgon Secondary School

Full-time or part-time, permanent ongoing VCEexperience preferable

•English

•Maths

•Science

•Japanese

We are also seeking casual relief teachers.

Catholic College

Sale

"Every Student, Every Day"

Applications are invited for the following: College Counsellor

For immediate start.

Further information and application forms available at www.ccsale.catholic.edu.au

All applications are to be forwarded to principal@ccsale.catholic.edu.au

Applications Close: 4.00pm Monday September 11, 2023.

See full position descriptions and apply at stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Applicants are invited for

JeremyFleming Jewellersisseekinganindividual who canjointhe customer service team at our Bairnsdale branch.

•Sales/retail experience preferred but not required

•All ages welcome

•Flexible hours

•Full me or part me only

•Reliable

•Passion forsales and jewellery

Applica ons to:Ari@j .net.au

Customer Service

Officer

Leadingcommunity services organisation

Salary packaging& competitive sector remuneration

Stimulatingrolefor an enthusiastic administrationprofessional

Maximum term to August2024

(ParentalLeave Cover)

We are seekinganenthusiastic administration professional whowill enjoyworkingclosetohomeatour Bairnsdaleoffice. We havea parttime positionavailable, working30.4hours perfortnightduring office hours 9am5.06pm

This roleinvolves keyfront desk operationsincluding reception and phones, bankingduties, arranging office supplies,administrationdutiesand direct contactwiththe public andUniting employees.

Interested?

Applytoday at: https://careers.unitingvictas.org.au

Get in touch

If you haveany questions aboutthis opportunity, please contact Sascha Johns –Manager, Children Youth&

Families on (03) 5152 9600

Learnmore

Learnmoreabout Uniting at www.unitingvictas.org.au andkeepan eyeonour Careers page for more opportunities

aSeniorLeadership position

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL Learning and Wellbeing

Catholic College Sale is aco-educational secondary college for Year 7to 12. The College is built on Sion and Marist traditions and is seeking an enthusiastic, student-centred and achievement-focussed Deputy Principal to fulfil this position. As aChild Safe school our focus is to provide afaith-filled partnership between students, families and the College to achieve student learning goals.

This is an excellent opportunity for acommitted Catholic educator who might be aspiring to Principalship to join ahigh functioning Leadership Team and work closely to plan and implement new developments while leading pedagogical change and avenues for student wellbeing.

The successful applicant will bring their own unique gifts and talents tothe leadership ofCatholic College Sale which will complement those ofsenior management. Applicants will:

● Have aproven record as an educator and leader.

● Be actively involved in the development of contemporary learning and pedagogy.

● Be committed to and supportive of the Catholic ethos of the College.

● Be an active member of aEucharistic community.

● Have appropriate experience in education with current VITmembership.

● Have, or be prepared to work towards, 'Accreditation to Teach in a Catholic School'.

● Show ademonstrated commitment to the safety and wellbeing of children.

● Enjoy working in adynamic environment with young people.

● Be committed to working in ateam environment.

● Participate in aformal appraisal program during the term of appointment.

● Have an ability to work with students, staff and parents to ensure that the vision and mission of Catholic College Sale permeates all aspects of our faith and learning community.

If you would like to apply, please access the position description and application form via www.ccsale.catholic.edu.au and email both the application form and your curriculum vitae to principal@ccsale.catholic.edu.au or PO Box 594, Sale 3850. Applications close: 4pm Thursday 14 September 2023.

Motoring Deal

Atotal of 12 issues over amonth!

Cash or credit card, through

Caravans

JAYCO PENGUIN. 1990. Good used cond. New awning $11,000. Ph: Tony 0447 973 115

GALAXY Odyssey 17ft, Limited Edition, pop-top, 2011, TV, gas/elec. stove, top grill, m/wave, a/c, QB, 240v/12v, plenty storage, e.c. $21,000 o.n.o. Phone 0456 609 278.

OZ TRAIL OFF ROAD

Camper trailer, 2012 model, fold out tent. 12 mthsreg.VOO-044. $2,500 Ph. 0498 362 386.

Advertise in the Gippsland Times and Latrobe Valley Express with our

MOTORING DEAL

$74*line ad with colour photo or $60*with no photo

Atotal of 12 issues over amonth!

*Price includes headline plus 4lines of type. Each line thereafter $8.50

Cash or credit card only

PARAMOUNT Thunder 19'6'' pop-top, 2020, dual axle, full ens., L-shaped lounge, x2 95L water tanks, x1 95L grey water tank, bike rack, diesel heater, QS bed, elec. brakes, Dexter anti-sway, gas/240v HWS, 3-way fridge, microwave, anti-flap kit, Dometic awn., solar panel, rev. camera, w/mach., CD player,TV, exc. cond., great van, easy to tow, gen. reason for sale $70,000. 0431 159 984.

Engagements

AROIN, Kenneth Douglas. IN LOVING MEMORY 24/10/1951 -27/08/2023

Beloved son of Mervyn (dec.) and Alice. Beloved brother of nine.

Loving husband of Robyn, father of Sharna, Iain and Hannah. Father-in-law of Michael, Melissa, and Joel. Papa of Charlie, Erica, Rosie, Cliffy and Lochie. We will miss you forever. May you rest peacefully.

DUCK, Rebecca Lee

To my sister Bec, As it's time for you to go, I'm sorry Iwasn't there in your final time.

My condolences to the kids, Cam, Will, Ishana, and Jaya. They will always be apart of you, no matter what.

My heart goes out to Mum and Dad, that these are tough times not only losing achild so early but to be strong for the grandkids.

Love you all, see you soon. RIP from ya brother. Aaron and Az.

To my sister, The memories we shared together are like precious jewels that Ihold close to my heart.

Birthdays

DUCK, Rebecca Lee 28/7/1983 -27/8/2023

Aged 40 years

DevechaDevecha

There’snobody fresher

Have asweet birthday without any pressure

Yessa yessa

Bless ya

Imiss you my sweet sister and Itreasure every moment we had. Your lovingsister, Amanda.

DUCK, Rebecca Lee. 28/07/1983 -27/08/2023

In loving memory of our beautiful niece.

HANCOCK, Geoffrey John.

21/11/45 -28/8/23

Son of Jack and Jean Hancock. Brother of Yvonne, Margaret, Beverly and Caroline.

Father of John, Debrah and James. Grandfather and uncle to many. Rest peacefully Forever in our hearts

KUMMROW, John "Jack" Martin. 26/12/1952 -30/06/2023

Proud father of John, James and Myles.

MOWAT, Phillip. To know Phil was a privilege, our lives were enriched by his friendship of many years. We will miss our catch ups. Our thoughts are with Shirley and family. Kevin and Pamela.

ALLEN (nee Morrison). The funeral service for Mrs Beth Irene Allen will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 1pm

TOMORROW (Wednesday September 6, 2023), followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

MOWAT. The funeral service for Mr Phillip John Mowat will be held at St. Columba's UnitingChurch, Cnr Raymond &Macalister Streets Sale at 1pm on MONDAY (September 11, 2023) followed by a private cremation.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to CGHS Palliative Care. Please see our website for livestream details.

MOWAT, Phillip "Phil".

The Port Of Sale Boat Club are saddened to hear of Phil's passing. Phil was alife member serving as commodore and slip operator, always there to help out. Greatly missed by all. Our thoughts are with Shirley and family.

OLIVER, R.F. (Dick). At peace at last. Sadly missed. Best mate of Ann.

DUCK

The funeral service for Ms Rebecca Lee Duck will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 11am on FRIDAY (September 8, 2023), followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fo otpr ints Foundation.

Please see our website for livestream details

SHINGLES.

The funeral of Mr Raymond Frederick Shingles is appointed to leave Our Chapel, 5 Queen St., Maffra after a service commencing at 11am TODAY (Tuesday, September 5, 2023) for the Maffra Lawn Cemetery.

GP1661653

Passed away at the Sale Hospital with her loving family surrounding her.

Lovi ng mother of Cameron, William, Ishana, and Jaya. Daughter of Jennifer and Graham. Sister to Daniel, Aaron, and Amanda.

Auntie to Catherine and Stuart.

Special friend of Sarah, Xander, Rhys. Now at peace.

Mum, You can shed atear that she is gone, Or you can smile because she lived. You can close your eyes, and pray that she will come back, Or you can open your eyes, and see all that she has left behind. Gone but not forgotten.

Love Cameron.

Mum, Iwish Icould be with you one last time, hear you laugh, see you smile.

You are always in my heart but it's not the same.

Imiss you dearly.

Love William.

Mum, Sometimes Iwish you could come back, but I don't want you to suffer again.

Iknow you are with me, and Iwill always love and miss you with all my heart. Until we meet again.

Love you Mum, from Ishana.

Mum, Could you come back and stay awhile

Iwant to hear your voice and see your smile.

Iwant to hold you tight and never let you go and tell you how much Ilove you. Missing you Mum, love Jaya.

They say memories are golden. Well maybe that is true. We never wanted memories. We only wanted you.

Amillion times we needed you, Amillion times we cried, If love could have saved you, You never would have died.

In life we loved you dearly, In death we love you still, In our hearts you hold a place, No one could ever fill. If tears could build a stairway, And heartache make a lane, We'd walk the path to heaven, And bring you back again. Our family chain is broken, And nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.

Fly High -Love Mum and Dad.

You came into our lives and the love that brought joy beyond measure. You left footprints on our hearts and we will never be the same. We have to hide the heartache when someone speaks your name.

Sad are the hearts that love you. Silent are the tears that fall.

It broke our hearts to see you go. Your love for your family true.

Your loving aunty Robyn and uncle Michael.

Bec, the tears in our eyes we can wipe away but the ache in our hearts will always stay.

Missing you isn't the problem…it is knowing that you are never coming back that is hurting us. Our treasured memories will stay with us forever.

Always in our hearts, aunty Annemaree (Anne) and aunty Wendy.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Cameron, William, Ishana, Jaya, Jenny, Graham, Daniel andSarah, Aaron, Amanda and families during this sad and difficult time.

MOWAT, Phillip John.

9/5/48 -30/8/23

75 years

Dearly loved husband of Shirley.

Loved Dad and father-inlaw of Fiona (Fizz) and Rachel, Stuart and Fiona (Fi).

Loved Pa to Harry, Charlotte, Talyn, Taj, and Ari.

Loved Son of Wally and Lil (both dec.). Brother to Denise (dec.), Graeme, and Carol. Brother-in-law to Gale, Peter, Nancy, Ray, Jennifer, and Phil. Aloved uncle to their families.

Agood friend to all. Thanks for the beautiful life you gave us. No words can describe how much we will miss you.

MOWAT, Phillip John.

Aged 75 years

Passed away suddenly at home 30/8/23. Much loved brother-in-law of Ray and Nancy, loved uncle of Scott, Leeanne, Hunter and Baxter, Andrew Carolyn and Ea mo n, Rac hae l and Lewis. No time for goodbyes, you knew it was time to go. You can now breathe easy and have no pain. We loved you and will miss you. God bless.

DUCK, Rebecca. The staff, students and parents of the Sale Primary School No. 545 are deeply saddened by the loss of Bec, a much-valued parent at our school. Our deepest condolences are extended to Bec's children Cameron, Will, Ishana and Jaya, and family.

DYER-VALENT, Jack Charles.

Tragically on 24/08/23 aged 26. Beloved son of Lesla Dyer and Miro Valent. Adored grandson of Gwen Dyer, Marina Valent and GlenysYoung. Much loved nephew and cousin to his family.

MOWAT, Pillip John. Aged 75 years. Passed away suddenly at home 30/8/23. Loved brother-in-law of Jen and Phil, loved uncle of Jackie, Steven, Geoffrey, Craig and families. We will miss you Phil so until we meet again, rest easy.

MOWAT, Phillip. Our thoughts are with Shirley, Fizz, Rachel, Stu, Fi and family. The gates of heaven opened wide, aspecial person walked inside, Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and forever dear. From Graham, Lynne, Deb, Trace and family.

SHINGLES, Raymond Frederick. Passed away peacefully at Sale Hospital on August 28, 2023. Aged 90 years. Father of Irene, Stephen, Eric and Raymond. Son of Eric and Hannah Shingles. Beloved brother of Marge Williams (dec.), John Shingles (dec.), Ron Shingles (dec.), William Shingles (dec.), Shirley Boyle, Elizabeth Shingles, Frank Shingles, and Colin Shingles.

SHINGLES, Raymond Frederick. Loved brother and brother-in-law of Frank and Jenny. Uncle of Andrew, Darren and Samantha. Great Uncle of Matthew, Jakob, Tamara, James, Madison,Dylanand Mitch. "Still chasing those cows after all this time".

SHINGLES, Raymond Frederick.

Passed away peacefully at Sale hospital on August 28, 2023. Uncle Ray, Words cannot describe how I'm feeling right now but knowing you are no longer in pain and at peace, for that Iam happy. You could be astubborn old bugger at times but you always had asmile on your face when Mum and Iwould visit. Iwill miss your stories even if you had told us the last time, we would just listen and smile. Rest easy Uncle Ray, no need to be up at 5am for the cows anymore. Love Samantha x

SHINGLES, Raymond. 23/04/1933 -28/08/2023

Loved brother to Elizabeth (Betty) Shingles. Loved Uncle and great uncle to Julie and Michael Landon. Rest in peace

MAHER. Funeral prayers for Mr James Anthony Maher will be offered at St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral, Pearson Street Sale at 11am on THURSDAY (September 7, 2023) followed by aprivate cremation.

SKEEN (nee Barrett). The funeral service for Mrs Isobel Marion Skeen WAS HELD at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Sale YESTERDAY(Monday September 4, 2023), followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the CGHS Dialysis Unit.

Funeral Directors

GP1658408

Barry &Annette Lett

67 Macarthur Street, Sale Phone 51431232

GP1658406

www.gippslandfuneralservices.com.au

GP1658407

Sensational Swans hit peak

ZoeAskew

REMARKABLE.

In absolutely stunning fashion, Stratford overpowered Wy Yung47to34towin the 2023 Football-Netball East Gippsland AGrade netball Grand Final.

The Tigers may have anasty bite, but Stratford’s phenomenal performanceon Saturday saw the Swans fly away with the premiership.

Wy Yung was the first to score on the Bairnsdale City Oval court with the opening centre pass,but Stratford quickly quashed their lead with agoal from the Swans’ sharpshooting goal attack, Tori Patterson.

Stratford goal defender Katy Coster turned overplaywithanincredible early interception, making for astellar opening in the final game of her netball career.

Wy Yungwas able to regain possession, briefly forgingaheadbefore Wilson, whose movement in the shooting ring was exceptional from the first whistle’s blow, equalised the score.

Patterson’s movement and accuracy, paired with Stratford playing-coach Ashlea Higgins’ unparalleled vision, made the anticipated combination difficult to stop.

The threatening duo was well supported by Stratford wing attack Coco Henry, whose movement and positioning saw the Swans produce classy and clinical play in the attacking third.

Perseverance from Coster and Stratford goalkeeperEmmyWilliams denied Wy Yung the chance to move in front, with the Swans displaying speed and beautiful fluidity as they transitioned from defence to attack.

An excellentreboundgrab from Higgins put Stratford ahead, withPatterson’sspeedy movementinthe shooting ring foiling Wy Yung defenders to give the Swans an early two-point lead.

While Patterson and Higgins’ combination was difficult to stop, Wy Yung rosetothe occasion, with the Tigers’ defence aggressive and difficult to penetrate, thanks to Wy Yung goal defender Rachel Murray and goalkeeper Morgan Dewar’s superb reading of feeding play.

An on-form Coster made ahugeimpactin the first quarter, turning over possession with several interceptions.

Stratford doubled Wy Yung’s score midway into the first quarter with afantastic goal by Patterson as she sailed throughthe airf ashove.

Wy Yung was able to close Stratford’s tage,but the Swansheaded into the quarter leading the Tigers 11-8. Stratford continuedtodemonstrate remarkable speed as teams returned break.

Aleaping catch from Patterson in thes ring saw the Swans score the second first point.

Wy Yung responded quickly, but their proved unmatched by aStratford outfit on song.

Patterson put away four consecutive goals for Stratford before Wy Yung was able to peg their second of the quarter.

Williams and Coster were brick wallsin defence, thwarting an increasingly frustrated Wy Yung attack.

Physicality augmented with the Stratford Wy Yung Grand Final, proving acolourful game.

Stratford demonstrated clinical feeding into the shooting ring through the likes of Henry and Stratford centre Sarah Bishop, with Patterson and Higgins continuingtodisplayaflawless collaboration.

Bishop posed athreat in the midcourt, the Swans’ agile centre aworkhorse with fantastic vision and positioning.

Williamsand Costerferociously defended Stratford’s shooting ring, the pairdoing well to thwart strongWy Yung goal shooter Stevie Alvin.

short, with theSwansheaded intothe third quarter with aseven-goal lead.

Wy Yung were first to scorewhenteams returned to the court, with the Tigers’ chances at scoring asecond consecutive goal in the opening minutes thwarted by avaliant Coster interception.

Patterson put away Stratford’s first goal of the third quarter.

An impressive opening third-quarter performance from Williams, making several interceptions to turn over possession, saw the Stratford goalkeeper hinder an increasingly aggressive Wy Yung.Williams’ epic plyometric abilities were well and truly on full display.

Stratfordextended their advantage thanks to aterrificinterception from Henry, as Wy Yung’s defencesought to clear the ball from the shooting ring.

As the third quarter approached its halfway point, Wy Yung cut Stratford’s advantage to five goals, 28-23.

The Tigers’ inception of Caitlin Wright replacing Dewar as Wy Yung’s goalkeeperslowed Stratford’sattack, butonly momentarilyin the third.

Higgins and Patterson quickly identified and exploited Wy Yung’s defensive faults.

With Patterson unstoppable in the shooting ring anda surge of pure excellence fromHiggins in the dyingembers of the thirdquarter,the Swans extended theiradvantagetonine points as teams retired for the final quarter break.

Acool breeze may have chilled onlookers, but things on court only continued to heat up.

Stratford was firsttoscore in the final quarter, with asecondconsecutivegoal givingthe Swans an 11-point lead in the opening minute.

The Tigers upped their game, reeling in aformidable Stratford and closing their advantage back down to nine.

Stratford’s expeditious wing defender Holly Webb turned over possessionwith an incredible mid-court interception, quickly finding Henry, who found Bishop, who found Patterson in the shooting ring.

Patterson’s class performance was unwavering, with the Stratford goal attackformidable in the shooting ring; her shooting was none other than phenomenal.

Henry andBishopcontinued to threaten in themidcourt with exceptional movement and vision.

Stratford took their chance to blow the lead out midway through the fourth,leading Wy Yung 41-28.

Higgins and Patterson were like cheese and wine, chocolate and strawberries, peanut butter and jam. The pair moved around each other with acaptivating fluidity, with their combination play in the final quarter of such high quality it warranted explicit remarks of disbelief from onlookers.

Four consecutive goals from Patterson extendedthe Swans’ lead over the Tigers 45-29.

In the dying minutes of the fourth quarter, Wy Yung exhibited rapid movement from the defensivethird into the offensive third. Still, their burstofstrongplaywas too littletoo late, with their late consecutive goalssolely aconsolation.

While Stratford’s sensational performance earned the Swans awell-deserved AGrade premiership, Wy Yung returned home emptyhanded for asecond consecutive year.

If winning aGrand Final on yourbirthday wasn’t already the best present one could ask for,Stratford goal attack ToriPatterson was named Grand Final best-on-court.

Surely, that has to be one of Patterson’s greatest birthdays yet.

For playing-coach Ashlea Higgins, Stratford’s

focus ahead of the Grand Final clash was to make things easy for themselves, come forward for the ball and to not stop their leads.

“We actually executed thisreally well,” Higgins said.

“I think it helped playing the whole finals series through, as it gave us time to settle in and gel even betterconsidering we had an injury so late in the season.

“I didn’thave much time to feel before the game as Iwas coaching BGrade, so Ididn’t get achancetofeel what the vibes were before the game for the girls. But it was hard coming off aloss to go straight into AGrade,soobviously, Ireally wanted to win that one.

“The team just came out and wanted the ball. We were hungryfor it, and it showed on the scoreboard. We have alot of players that played alot of premierships, and Ithink this helped us as we had maturity on the court.

“All our plans just fell into place, and it was really nice to watch!Wealsoplayed the best gamewehave all finals series,and what agreat time for us to peak.”

Higgins commended her team’s efforts, emphasising the valuable impact of each player in securing the premiership victory.

“I actually think our whole team was standout performers,” Higgins said.

“Our defence killed it. Katy and Emmy were phenomenal, and our midcourt did their job. They didn’t stuff around, and they protected that ball and coming into our shooting end, we just finished off all their handwork.

“Tori again shot at 93 per cent, which is hard to beat.”

Higginsdescribed winning the premiership as asurreal feeling, one she’ll never forget.

“I’m just super proud of the girls for getting over the line and with abig margin likethat is just awesome,” she said.

“Whilst my BGraders didn’t get over the line, I’m stillsuper proud of them for making it to the Grand Final. Massive amazing achievements from both teamsand I’m so ecstatic to be able to say that Icoached two teams to aGrand Final.”

Stratfordgoal attack Tori Patterson during the Grand Final.

Emmy Williamsembraces StratfordFootball-Netball Clubpresident Matt Telling after the Grand Final.

Photos:Zoe Askew

StratfordA Grade playing-coach Ashlea Higgins embraces Tori Wilson as the final whistle sounds.

Stratford AGrade captain SarahBishop and Stratford playing-coach Ashlea Higgins

Woodside with five teams in big dance

Liam Durkin

BIG week ahead for the Wildcats.

Woodsidequalifiedfor the North Gippsland Football-Netball League GrandFinal, following victory in the preliminaryfinallastSaturday

In fact,Woodsidequalified for their first Grand Final in the NGFNL, and first as Woodside and District.

More on that later.

The Wildcats were too strong for Heyfield at the weekend, winning through to the decider in an 11.9 (75) to 7.4 (46) scoreline.

Asix goal to one opening term set the scene for Woodside, from which time they rarely looked back.

Come quartertime at Glengarry, the Wildcats led by 33 points, andthe margin stayed within that vicinity for the rest of the game.

The Kangaroos madesome running in thethird term,kicking four goals to two, to be in with asniff at the last change only 24 points down. However, defences reigned supreme for both teams in the last, as only one goal was kicked between the two sides.

While Heyfield had three quarters to make up for their poor start, Woodside had the football smarts to keep their opponent’s at arm’s length.

Kangaroos coach Leigh Brownbooted four goals, while Murray Casella, Tom Marchesi, Liam Heasley, Tyson Birss, Kail Hole and Rob McMillan were best-on.

Having been originally engaged to help find anew coach for the year, Brown came to realise he was in fact the man for the job. The favourite son of Heyfield, with more than 200 AFL games under his belt, ended up taking the Kangaroos on an unforgettable journey thisseason, surprising mostwithin North Gippslandcircles by finishing top-three.

Most pundits didn’t even have Heyfield making finals this year.

Heyfield was without gun youngster Asher Eastham,who was required to play afinal forGippsland Power.

Adding to that the names in the best such as Heasley, Birss and Hole -all still under 21, the Kangaroos have some serious upside forfuture years.

If theycan keep this core group together, as well as add afew from the thirds team about to play in their own Grand Final, Heyfield will be scary good in years to come.

MattDykewas best-on-ground for the winners, and did an excellent job shutting downkey Kangaroo midfielder Mitch Bennett. Ben Johnson was also good, as was Jack Avage, Ryan Foat, Joh Fythe and Cameron Whiteoak.

Avage hadn’t played agame sinceRound15before the finals started, nor been in the best players.

There is always one bloke you least expect in finals

NORTH GIPPSLAND FNL GRAND FINAL

Saturday,September 9atGordon Street Reserve, Heyfield

Strictly no alcohol to be brought into ground.

Football

Seniors:TTU vs Woodside (2.30pm)

Reserves:TTU vs YYN (12pm)

Thirds:Rosedale vs Heyfield (9.30am)

Netball

AGrade:Churchill vs Woodside (2.15pm)

BGrade:Glengarry vs Woodside (12.55pm)

CGrade:Sale City vs Woodside (11.55am)

DGrade:Woodside vs Sale City (10.55am)

17 andUnder:Sale City vs Rosedale

Foat, adedicatedservant to the Wildcats, played acaptains game, andwillnow get some reward for loyalty as he prepares for his first Grand Final, continuing astronglineage of Foats to have represented Woodside on Grand Final day -particularly in netball.

Fellow senior captain Dan Missen will also be one eagerly awaiting the Grand Final.

Both have stuck by Woodside through some tough years, and will finally get their opportunity on the big stage this Saturday. Woodside now has another crack at Traralgon Tyers United, in a rematch of the second semi-final.

The Wildcats will be aiming for not only the flag, but to also hand the Bombers their first loss for the season.

For Woodside coach MichaelDuncan, there willalsosurely be personal incentive, as he will be coaching against hisold club. Duncan was, somewhat surprisingly, let go as TTU coach in 2019 despite taking the team to consecutive top-three finishes.

His time with the Wildcats since has seen them enjoy ameteoric rise. In 2021,they finished on top of theladder in the eventually abandoned season, and last year, made the preliminary final after finishing the regular season fifth on the ladder.

Somewhat ironically,Woodside wasonly20minutesawayfrom makingthe GrandFinal in last year’s preliminary final, and has now made the Grand Final off the back of its first 20 minutes in this year’s preliminary final.

This willbeWoodside’s first Grand Final in its current incarnation. Woodside and District was formed in 2008 after splitting from Devon-Welshpool-Won Wron-Woodside, whichinturn was amerger between Devon-Welshpool and Won Wron-Woodside.

Although the modern Woodside takes in the history of DWWWW

and Won Wron-Woodside, this Saturday will be the firstGrand Final as Woodside and District.

Perhaps fittingly, the last ‘Woodside’ flag was 20 years ago, when DWWWW won the Alberton Footballl-Netball league title. Players and officials from that team gathered in Woodside earlier this year for the reunion, many of whom are now involved with Woodside District, including club president Ash Walpole.

Speaking at the reunion,Walpole hoped to be able to pass the baton of last Woodside premiership team on.

“Hopefully in 10 years’ time we can have a30year Allies reunion and a10-year Woodside reunion,” he said.

Former AFL Number 1draft pick and Woodside local Anthony Banik coached that DWWWWteam, and shared similarsentiments “They can forget about us and move on,” he said laughing. “Would love it (a Woodside flag), would be agreat thing.”

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Solutions

Target Time No.0174

acetous, acinus, acne, aconite, actin, action, acute, antic, ascent,ascot,atonic, auction, cane, canoe, canoeist,canst,cant,canto, case, casein, casino, cast,caste, cate, cation, cause, caution, cent,cento, cetin, cine, cist,cite, coast,coat,coati, coin, coitus, cone, coni, conte, contuse, coset,cosine, cost, costa, costae, cotan, cote, count,cousin, cuesta, cute, cutin, enact,icon, incase, incest,incus, incuse, insect,nice, nicest,noetic, notice, ocean, octane, once, ontic, oscine, otic, ounce, sauce, scan, scant, scat,scena,scent,scion, scone, scot,scotia, scout, scut,scuta,scute, secant,sect, section, since, sonic, stance, stoic, suction, taco, TENACIOUS, tocsin, tonic, toucan, tunic, unci, usance.

Target: Average-45, Good -60, Excellent -80+

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

QUALIFYING/ELIMINATION FINALS

LEONGATHA

SENIORS

GOALS: Leongatha: COlden 8JGarnham 2NGownMMcGannon TMarriottT Nash TBrill

AHeppell.Moe:N Prowse3JBlaser 2J Wood HSim BGowers JBalfour TBaldi TBlackshaw.

BEST: Leongatha: COlden CMaskell JHarry LBowman NGownB Willis.Moe:R Baldi TBaldi

Svan DykBMaslen JBlaserLMulqueen TRARALGON

GOALS: Traralgon: BEddy 5T Hamilton BSchilling TSchneider CLittle. Sale: BDessent 3

JDessent 2. BEST: Traralgon: LD’Angelo THamiltonBEddy MJacobsen TSchneider

JMcMahon. Sale: JLeslie NWhitfordT Wrigglesworth JDessent PTainsh JAllison

RESERVES

GOALS: Maffra: AMckenzie 3OBrewerBJohnson. Traralgon: JVan Iwaarden BLocandro

LMcDonald BEST Maffra: WPleming SWalker WBrunt CSmartBCarubia CDriffield

Traralgon: TAnderson KMarsh HHectorL McDonald DBuis LHahn

GOALS: Sale:BWalker 5DMcGuiness 2LPlaceBJones.Wonthaggi: RMoresco 4KMcCarthy2

WLuke WForsyth.BEST: Sale:JButcher BWalker JSweeney ZRussell DMcGuiness JGlenane

Wonthaggi:

Unexpected end for the Magpies

Liam Durkin

THERE is no justice in football.

At least that is what Sale players will be thinking after losing the Gippsland League Elimination Final.

The Magpies ventured to Western Park, and returnedwith their wings clipped, losing to Traralgon 9.11 (65) to 5.6 (36).

The result,and game itself, carried no shortage of subplots.

Sale is nowout of thepremiership race, less than ayear after making the Grand Final.

Having beatenthe Maroons in thelast game of the home-and-away season, the Magpies,not for the first time, were made to realise the cruelty of finals.

Traralgon had lost four games in arow leading into finals.

Theyhad even lost to lowly Bairnsdale just three weeks ago.

And their coach Jake Best had already announced his resignationafter this season.

Eagles take it to OT

MAFFRA reserves won athrilling Qualifying Final decided in extra time.

The Eagles and Traralgon played out adeadlock in regular time, that saw scores level at 27 points apiece when fulltime was called.

An inaccurate Maroons were made to rue missedopportunities, kicking 3.9 (27) to Maffra’s 4.3 (27).

Maffra had the chance to kick what would have virtually been agolden point late in the last term, only for ashot from in frontofthe grandstand at Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve to driftout on the full.

Extra time meant five minutes each way. Players had only a couple of minutes to regroup out on the ground in their huddles, where they weren’t permitted to be spoken to by coaches.

Some Maffra women supporters, presumably wives and girlfriends, were shooed away when they tried to mingle around the huddle.

The Eagles kicked the only goal of extra time, which came in the first period, but it proved to be enough, as they held on to win 5.6 (36) to 3.10 (28).

Maffra thought they had another goal in the first period after aKal Killoran snap from close range. The Eagles players promptly celebrated, however werecaughtunawareasthe ball was kicked back into play.

The Eagles put up all defences in the second period, with some smart andvery deliberate clock management seeing them walk the ball over the boundary and pick themselves up very slowly from the bottom of packs.

Maffra survived afew late scares,but the finalsiren sounded to see them advance to the second semi-final, where they will take on Leongatha for aplace in the Grand Final.

Bill Pleming played acaptains game for the Eagles, and was followed by Sam Walker, Will Brunt, Chris Smart, Bailey Curubia and Charlie Driffield.

Best for Traralgon was Tyler Anderson, Kade Marsh, Haydn Hector,Lachlan McDonald, Daniel Buis and Liam Hahn.

After battling their way through the reserves season, sometimes only having 14-15 adult players, the Eagles could be adifferent commodity come finals due to their seniors not taking part.

Maffrahas notmissedfinals in the reserves since 2014, or finished outside the top three for that matter in the same time.

The Maroonsweregiven littletonochance on Sunday, but ended up pulling off awin forthe ages.

Achangeinseason to Spring may well have brought about achangeinTraralgon, as they appeared acompletely different side to the one that many within league circles thought were merely making up the numbers in finals.

But the Maroons were ateam for the big occasion, and made the early running with two goals in the first quarter.

Whilebothsides shared the same number of scoring shots, the second term proved to be the game changer for the underdog.

With key forwardBrett Eddy getting opportunity,and midfielder Luis D’Angelo tagging gun Salemidfielder ShannenLange, the Maroons added three goals to go into halftime with a24point lead.

Sale was feeling the heat, and not just from the day itself which was bathed in sunshine, as handballs went astray and players fumbled below their knees.

Frustrations were clear and tempers flared on the halftime siren following an attempted barrel from D’Angelo, as an all-in melee started.

Players came from everywhere to fly the flag, before being separated and retreated to the rooms, the situation made somewhat trickybythe fact both teams had to walk off through the same gate.

Sale captain Jack Leslie had achattothe umpires at the break, while Traralgon coach JakeBest could be seen gesturing to his head, no doubt telling his players to cooltheir jets.

If the Magpies were hoping the fight sparked them into gear,they were mistaken, as the thirdquarter playedout as astalemate with just one goal kicked between the two sides. Down by 25 points at three quarter time and with theirseason on the line, Sale added threegoals in the final term, but their efforts were in vain as the Maroons added just as many.

Leslie was best-on-ground for the Magpies, followed by Nathan Whitford, youngsterTom Wrigglesworth,JordanDessent, Pat Tainsh and Jayden Allison.

D’Angelo won the plaudits for his work on Lange, while Tom Hamilton, Brett Eddy (five goals),Max Jacobsen,Tom Schneider and Jackson McMahon were productive.

Traralgon will play Moe this Sunday at Maffra in the first semi-final.

The pressure now appears to be all on the Lions following theirloss to Leongatha in the qualifying final.

IT’S not so much that Leongatha know how to win finals, it’s that they know when to play finals.

The Parrots showed every bit of their finals experience on Saturday, defeating Moe 16.5 (101)to11.7(73).

In many ways,the qualifyingfinal belonged to Cameron Olden. The Leongatha forward, who has played most of the year with Richmond in the VFL, lit up Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve,kicking eight goals in ascintillating display.

His last goal was truly out of this world. He snappeditfrom 45 metres out off astanding start with Moe jumpers all around him.

Olden was bumped as he kicked it, meaning he ended up on his back as the ball was sailing through. Once it registered agoal, he had both arms outstretched sprawled across the ground,almost as if to say “it’s my world today, you are just living in it.”

Afterkicking eight goalsinafinal, it’s hard to argue otherwise.

Olden’s heroics lookedsomeway off at quartertime, as teams went intothe first break virtually on level-pegging.

Moe kicked the first goal of the game through Jacob Balfour, while working class hero Tom Blackshaw nailed aset shot from long range.

Naturally, things were tight early on, with hardly any players finding the ball in space

Agoal to the Parrots after the quarter time sirengavethem some momentum -littlewas another to knowjusthow much momentum.

Leongatha blew the game open in the second term, piling on six goals in what seemed like the blinkofaneye.Moe hadlost veteran defender Tom Long to ahamstring by this stage, and the Lions were frantically spinning the magnets around.

Moe’s only twogoals forthe term came from James Blaser, who kept the scoreboard in some check after dobbing aset shot from 40 metres out at the entrance end.

While the margin was only 23 points at the main break, there was worrying signs for the Lions.

In abid to add some needed physicality around the ball, Moe put key forward Billy Gowers into the midfield at the start of the third quarter. The Lions worked their way back into the contest,with aneat set shot from TrentBaldi deep in the pocket followed by Chris Prowse smartly tapping the ball to himselfand running into an open goal making it a15-point ball game.

Leongathahoweversteadied. Acalculated set shot from Tom Marriott kept the Lions at bay, while two goals in red time - another right on the siren, meant the Parrots entered the last change 28 points up.

Moe foundvaliantly, but ultimately, just couldn’t bridge the gap.

Olden just kept kicking goals, and put the result beyond doubt after getting agimme in the goal square and kicking it over the net.

Oldenwas aclearbest-on, and received good support from Maskell, who just keeps getting better with age. Harry did agood job locking down Gowers, keeping the Moe spearhead to one goal, while Luke Bowman was rewarded for sacrificing his game. Bowman played exclusively on Keilty in the first quarter, taking himself out of the midfield andallowing Noah Gown to spend time in the engine room.

The plan worked perfectly for Leongatha, as Gown was able to free himself up and spendlittle to no time on Keilty,who had given him abaththe last time they played.

Ben Willis was also prominent for the Parrots, giving his heart and soul as he always does.

Moe found good contributions from Riley and Trent Baldi, while Scott Van Dyk struck acomposed figure in defence.

Having beaten Leongatha in both their home-and-away matches this year, the result was disappointing for Moe,who have now used their double-chance and will have to take the long way through finals.

For the Parrots, who had been questioned at times this season regarding whether or not their premiership window was stillopen, well and truly demonstrated they will still be there when the whips are cranking After all, they know whentotoplay finals.

A South Gippsland showdown now awaits betweenLeongathaand Wonthaggi for a place in the Grand Final.

SALE enjoyed better fortunes in the reserves, winning the elimination final.

The Magpies led from start to finish, but had to hold off apersistentWonthaggioutfit

The Power were accurate, but Sale was better, and won 9.6 (60) to 8.0 (48).

Sale kept Wonthaggi goal-less in the opening quarter,but held justasix-pointlead come the last change.

Three goals to two in the last ensured the Magpies kept their season alive.

JoshButcherwas best for Sale, followed by Bohdi Walker (five goals), Jamie Sweeney, Zak Russell, Daine McGuiness and Jackson Glenane.

With the seniors now eliminated, there is potential for Sale to strengthen their reserves further.

The Magpies could add Jordan Burke and Harry Tatterson into the line-up, bothof whom played seniors at the weekend. Sale takesonTraralgonthis Sunday in the first semi-final at Maffra.

Liam Durkin

OH SO CLOSE

Boisdale-Briagolong put up agallant fight in the East Gippsland football Grand Final, falling just eight points short of victory.Although the Bombers lost,theywon no shortageofadmirers going in as underdogs against Wy Yung.

Woodside sends City out in straight sets

THE North Gippsland Football-NetballLeague’s A Grade preliminaryfinalbecame aone-sided affair very quickly.

As Woodside has steamrolled all their opposition in this finals series, this game was no different, as they defeated Sale City 63 to 45.

The match at Glengarry began as ashootout with Woodside playing-coach Elizabeth Nicol unable to miss and the Bulldogs’ Ronchi sisters in Charlotte andLiv both accurate in the ring.

It was maybe Sale City’s nerves and youth that contributed to them losing possession of the ball, and Woodside was able to capitalise quite early in the first quarter.

Wildcat CaitlinJohnson had her handsover everything with afew crucial intercepts in tips, the Wildcats were able to go 16 to 10 up at the first break.

Johnson’s dominance continued into the second quarter with ahuge intercept; reading the wing attack movements and the passer’s eyes, Johnson beat her player in the pocket and grabbed that pass like it was made for her. This intercept became a

hugeturningpointfor the Wildcatswho wereable to puttheir foot down.

Down the other end, Sale City’s Simone Turner had ahugeintercept of her own, finally being able to stopthe service into Nicol, but the Dogscouldn’t capitalise, summing up much of their game.

Despite the Ronchishootersonly missingone goal each at this stage, the Wildcats were just so good in the midcourt and expanded their lead 32-24 by the major break.

By the third quarter, Sale City had to change their gameplan,matching their tall defender in Turner on Nicol to attempt to stop her shooting dominance

Sale City’s inexperiencesoon became visible, with wayward passes and backward leads as the Wildcat’s pressure intensified.

The margin grew out to 13 goals, and aBulldog comeback seemed to become unlikely.

SaleCity’sattackingend soongrewtired of working overtime to receive the ball, and even Liv Ronchi began missing her shots.

Despite Indigo Waugh’s perseveranceinwing attack,the Bulldogs couldn’t get back in the game.

Woodside’s wingattack in Tayla Buckleywas huge in delivering the ball down the court, crashing through defenders and weaving her way, creating

spacetodeliver perfectly weighted feeds into Nicol

The Wildcatslooked likeawell-oiled machine, withnosigns of slowing down, extending their lead to 20 goals.

By the fourth quarter, it was all over. Sale City had no answers to the efficiency and ruthlessness of Woodside’s pressure and attack. Despiteclosing the marginto18, the Bulldogs went home in defeat whilethe Wildcats tickedoff another point on their 2023 Grand Final road map.

Speaking to coach Nicol after the game, she said “This feeling is just awesome.”

“Sale City, were good in the first half, it was pretty tightly contested coming into halftime,” she said.

At halftime, the coach turned to her troops and told them to stay composed and disciplined, and that’s how they’ll continue to dominate the game.

“Sale City, they’re so young …every time you come up against them, there’s something different because they are so young and they are always learning,” Nicol said.

“What our midcourthas showninthe lastcouple of weeks, like Laura (Foat), Tayla (Buckley) and Georgie (Banik), they can just run; they can run for days.”

Discussing some big positionchanges made in the

last quarter, Nicol said it was not acase of giving everyone ashare of court time when she brought in Andrea Elliot to the goal shooting position.

“We’ve got nine players, and every single one of them can do that job. It was apretty tactical change,” she said.

Before the game,the Woodside coach said the team discussed one thing each player had learned during the year, and forher, it wastotrusther team.

Speakingonher own game,Nicol said, “I’ve learnt to trust the girls, to be accountable and to do their role on the court.”

Nicol was unstoppable under the post but credited her teammates for the great delivery.

“Theway that they feed the ballinto the goal circle, they just findthe most amazingspace; that’s the only reason Ilook so good,” she said.

“I’ve never had feeders like these guys.” Woodside will now have the chance to go backto-back, as they takeonChurchill in the biggest game of the year -the Grand Final.

NETBALL SCOREBOARD -PAGE28

Zaida Glibanovic

Shaymus Wain pictured. Photo: Zoe Askew EASTGIPPSLAND GF REVIEW -PAGE23