Gippsland Times Tuesday 14 February 2023

Closures continue

TomParry

FIRST it was Sale; now Maffra is set to lose a bank branch.

The National Australia Bank (NAB) has confirmed it will be permanentlyclosing its Maffra Agency on May 4.

Staff were informed of the decision on January 30, with customers notified via post and online messages from February 6.

NAB retail executive regional Victoria, Mil Kairouz, outlined the reasons for the closure in a statement to the Gippsland Times

“Over the pastfew years, we’vefounditchallenging to maintain areliableservicefor customers, with the Maffra branch being intermittently closed since mid-2020,” Mr Kairouz said.

“Sadly, we’ll be closing permanently on May 4.

“While the branch hasbeenintermittently closed,

we’veseen over 80 percentofthe Maffra customers conducttheir bankingatother locations, including our recently refurbished Sale branch.

“We’ll continue to work with customers who need additional support with digital banking, and will be introducing them to the Bank@Post service (at Maffra Post Shop) in Johnson Street.

“Wewill also have acommunity banker in the Bank@Post shop one day aweek for eight weeks following the closure to assistcustomers transitioning to banking via Bank@Post.

“Our business bankers will also continue to make regular visits to Maffraand the surrounding areas

“Importantly, there’s beennojob losses as aresult of this closure, withthe NABMaffrateam provided new opportunities across NAB.”

The Gippsland Times understands that employees of the Maffra Agency have been performing other roles within NAB, due to the branch having been temporarily closed for some time.

The permanent closure willresult in Commonwealth Bank and Bendigo Bank being the only two banking institutions with apresence in Maffra.

NAB’s announcement comes justone weekafter Westpac Group publicly confirmed that it would be closing its Raymond Street, Sale branch on May 19. Coincidentally, Westpac informedits staff and customers of itsbranch’sclosure on the same dates as NAB informed theirs -January 30 and February 6, respectively. Bothcompanies are encouraging customers to utilise the Bank@Post service.

Last week’s announcementbyWestpac drew criticism from multiple organisations and figures, including Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, as reported in the Gippsland Times

On Friday, Mr Chester released astatement calling for amoratorium to be imposed on further bank branch closures across regional Australia,

and demanded the big four banks startrespecting their customers’ needs.

He addedthat there should not be any further closures until the recommendations of the Regional Banking Taskforce (story on page four)-established by the former coalition government in 2021 -were fully implemented.

“The taskforce recommendations were made to improve transparency between banks and their customers and amoratorium on all closures needs to be implemented untilthese impact assessments are done,” Mr Chester said.

“These assessments will ensure there is time to develop solutions for local customers and look at other options likeco-location with other businesses, reduced hours, banking hubs or mobile branches to cater to vulnerable people and enable them to still have access to face-to-face, local banking services.”

TheMaffra Business&Tourism Association was reached for comment.

Stratford farm worker Lisbett Lillo is remaining upbeat, despite finding out she has Stage 4 breast cancer.

Locals have rallied behind the Chilean, already raising $15,000 to help with treatment.

Improvements made to health

TEN residential aged care facilities in Gippsland will have access to an IMPREST system to improve end-of-life care with timely medications, thanks to agrantfromGippsland PrimaryHealth Network (PHN).

An IMPRESTsystem allowsregistered health practitioners to access prescription medications includingthose used for people receiving palliative care.

Medicationsare suppliedtoanaged care facility as ‘ward stock’ rather than for aspecific resident. Theyincludeantibiotics, painreliefand other medications.

The initiative is part of the federal government’s Greater Choices for At Home Palliative Care measure to improve palliative care coordination in aperson’s home or in aged care facilities.

Many aged care facilities in Gippsland are already using the IMPREST system. This Gippsland PHN initiative has boosted the numbers to 94 per cent -the highest percentage of aged care facilities in any region in Australia to have an end of life medication system on site.

Gippsland PHN chief executive, Amanda Proposch, said establishment of an IMPREST system in Residential Aged Care Facilities(RACFs) had already shown to provide many benefits.

“It can help mitigate ashortage of essential medications when prescribed medications are not accessible, with general practitioners and locums also able to prescribe medications availableonsite and without delay,” Ms Proposch said “Admissions to emergency departments for medication for painmanagementand similar can be lessened by implementation of an IMPREST system.”

In 2020/21, 1568 or 1.3 per centoftotal emergency department (ED) presentationsfor Gippsland residents were for people with aRACFastheir usual residence. This equates to almost half of all people within an RACF being admitted to ED in 2020/21.

The Gippsland Palliative Care Consortium will provideguidanceand support to RACFs in meeting the regulatory processes required in establishing and implementing an IMPREST system. It will also provide education and support to registered

nurses who will be accessingend-of-life medications via the IMPREST system.

Palliative aged care and disability resource nurse with the Gippsland Region Palliative Care Consortium, Carol Barbeler, said the project would address one of the barrierstoensuring that people hadaccesstopalliative care whenand where they needed it.

“This is an important project and the GRPCC is excited to be working with the RACFs who have been successfulinthe grant process,” Ms Barbeler said.

Ms Proposch said RACFs in Gippsland were already providing quality end-of-life care for their residents.

“We believe this initiative will decrease unnecessary admissions from aged care to Emergency Departments and hospitals in Gippsland.”

The IMPREST system is being introduced across Gippsland.

Photo: Contributed

Sayyourprayers outed

Sale resident nowonthe offenderslist

SALE resident Dean Barnes is now aregistered sex offender after pleading guilty to charges related to child abuse material, but has avoided prison.

As reported by ABC Gippsland,35-yearold Barnes appeared in the Latrobe Valley County Court on Thursday, February9, where he pleaded guiltyto18charges and was convicted for all of them. He was sentencedto14monthsinjail, but the ABC says he was “released immediately on recognisance”.

While Barnes has avoided jail, he has been subjected to reporting obligations for life.

Judge John Smallwood said he accepted thatBarnesheld“verydeep shame andvery deep remorse”, that he had already sought professional help and had goodpotential for rehabilitation.

Barnes used onlinemessagingplatform Kik to request images and videos of individuals he believed were children.Conversations tookplace between February 12020and May 14 2021. The victims presented as male teenagers between the ages of 14 and 17.

According to aprosecution’s summary, it was not clear what age most of the individuals werewhenBarnes tried to getphotos and images from them, and it wasn’t confirmed to be child abuse material.

Judge Smallwood said he accepted that the “depraved” comments Barnes had made on Kik were not targeting underage males and he did not attempttomeet up with them in real life.

“You said you had exactly the same interaction with them as you did with the adults,” Judge Smallwood said.

“The factremainsthey presented as underage and there’s nothing to suggest you didn’t believe that.”

One of the charges was for possessing child abuse material, with362 files acrosstwo mobile phones -which included sexualised content of teenage boys.

Judge Smallwood said aside from the possessingchild abuse material charge, he couldn’t “be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt” that there was avictim for the other charges Barnes was convicted for.

“It’s your intention that you’ve been sentenced for,” Judge Smallwood said. Apsychiatrist’sreport saidanADHD medication Barnes had used was a“significant contributory factor” for his actions JudgeSmallwood didn’t disputethat it may have played apart, but rejected any strong significance.

“There’s adifference between having hypersexuality and engaging in these sorts of conversations with people you believe to be under the age of 18 or 16,” he said.

Stefan Bradley

WELLINGTON Shire Council has confirmed to the Gippsland Times that the prayer that is usually recited at the start of council meetings has been scrapped.

“Wellington Shire Councillors this week agreed to move to astatement of purpose, deciding not to read the Christian prayer that is usually recited at the beginningofeachcouncil meeting,” a Wellington Shire Council spokesperson told this newspaper on Friday.

“Starting Tuesday 21 February, WellingtonShire Council Mayor Ian Bye will read astatement of purpose, acknowledging the growing diversitythat exists within local communities.

“In the five years since 2018, Wellington Shire has officially welcomed 325 new citizens, and

at its most recent Citizenship Ceremony in January 2023, 39 new citizens from 15 different backgrounds were welcomed to the region.

“This move continuestosupport Wellington Shire Council’s commitment to diversity and inclusion both as an organisation, and throughout local communities.”

Earlier this month, 21 councillorsfrom17 councils around Victoria signed an open letter to the state government calling for the removal of prayer from council meetings. Some of the councils have chosen to keep the prayer, and others replaced it with astatement of value or purpose.No-one from Wellington Shire Council took part in the letter, and until Friday, it is understood they were undecided on the matter.

The state government told the ABC that prayer is not arequirement of the localgovernment council meetings

Program to streamline careers

THEstate government is building adiverse and robust mental health and wellbeing workforce, delivering abrand-new program for students, streamlining their transitionstraight into the workforce.

Minister for Mental Health, Gabrielle Williams, recentlyannounced the new Earn and Learn Traineeship Program, and the providers who will be running the program.

“The Earn and Learn Traineeship Program means communitymentalhealth workers can begin working in the sector while they complete their studies-getting them straight into the workforce and supporting Victorians right away,” shesaid.

“These new roles are akey part of the diverse, skilled and multidisciplinary workforce that the Royal Commission recommended for the mental health system.”

Theprogram is part of Victoria’s MentalHealth and Wellbeing Workforce Strategy 2021-24, which outlines astrategic approachtodeliver the diverse, skilled and multidisciplinary workforce required for Victoria’s reformed mental health and wellbeing system.

The $4.5 million state government investment willcreate50new community support jobs for mental health and wellbeing trainees, while they study aCertificate IV in Mental Health, the providers include:

 Mind Australia;

 Wellways Australia;

 EACH;

 Uniting Vic. Tas;

 Star Health, and;

 Mallee Family Care.

Funding has also been provided for educator roles to support trainees at these services, which will ensure asafeand supportivelearning environment. Trainees will receivesupervision and relevant placements throughtheir employmentperiod.

Following arecommendation from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s mental health system foramore diverse mental health workforce,these positions pave the way for people withawide varietyofskills, experience and background to begintheir career journey in the community mental health services.

The government is getting underway on implementing more than 90 per cent of the Royal Commission’srecommendations, and in the last year has investedarecord $372 million in workforce initiatives to hire more than 1500 mental health workers, including 400 mental health nurses and 100 psychiatrists to deliver Victoria’s mental health reform agenda.

Thestate governmentalso offers the Certificate IV in Mental Health and Certificate IV in Mental Health PeerSupport as partofthe FreeTAFE program.

Wind farms for Dutson Downs?

GIPPSLAND Water is asking local residents and customers to help decide whether land it manages at Dutson Downs should be made available to build or host awindfarm.

Gippsland Water managing director, Sarah Cumming,saidthe ideawas being exploredas away to meet the organisation’s commitment to movingto100 per cent renewableenergy by 2025

“There’s been agreat dealofinterestinwind farms in our community recently,” Ms Cumming said.

“Treatingand distributingwaterand wastewater takes ahugeamount of energy.

“Establishing awind farm could help reduce our emissions in an affordable way that benefits our customers while boosting the local economy.”

Consultation is currently underway with the local community and Gippsland Water customers.

Ms Cumming said the views of those from the surrounding area -including Golden Beach, Paradise Beach, Dutson, Seacombe and Loch Sport -will be particularly important in the decision.

Benefitsofawindfarm touted by Gippsland Water include:

 Potential to boost the local economy, providing more jobs for residents in construction and ongoing maintenance;

 Acontribution to the infrastructure needed to move Gippsland Water towards 100 per cent renewable energy by 2025, and;

 An affordable way to reduce Gippsland Water’s greenhouse gas emissions, potentially reducing operating costs and putting downward pressure on customer bills.

Gippsland Water currently utilises its Dutson Downs site for waste treatment, agriculture, and carbon offset plantings.

The site will continue to operate all three interests regardless of whetherornot awind farm is established there. An online survey has been opened for locals to have their say. For more information and to participate in the survey, visit www.gippswater.com.au/windfarmsurvey by March 5.

Union backs Senate probe into regional bank closures

TomHayes

ACCUSED murderer, Gregory Lynn, could be set for trial beforethe endofthe year, as the Supreme Courtappears likely to locate the case to Melbourne.

Lynn, 56, faced the SupremeCourt for the first time on Thursday (February 9), via video link, after he was committed to stand trial last month.

The Age reported that it was likely for the trial to run for up to eight weeks, and to be held in Melbourne rather than regional Victoria.

Judicial registrar Tim Freemansaidifthe case was to be held in Melbourne Supreme Court, it could occur as early as October.

Lynn is accused of killing 74-year-old Russell

Lynn trial date Gippsland Family Practice

Hill and 73-year-oldCarol Clay in Wonnangatta Valley in March 2020.

Police allege Lynn murdered the pair, then burnt their bodies at adifferent location, north of Dargo, before returning to the location at least once to conceal the remains.

Theremains of the pair were discovered more than18monthslater, foundpartially buried in the bush.

The Age reports that an autopsy was unable to establish acause of death as the bones recovered were in fragments.

Lynn was charged with two counts of murder in November 2021, wherehepleaded not guilty.

Lynn’s trial dateisexpected to be determined at an upcoming administrative hearing in May this year;for now he will remain in custody.

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Maffra NAB is one of many localbranches to announce itsclosure.

Unlikethe Coalition Regional BankClosure Taskforce that was held in 2021, theFSU says it hopesthe Senate inquirywill takeits time to examineindetailthe plethora of issuesthat arise from the closure of bankbranches.

FSU national secretary, Julia Angrisano, said the union had been calling for aserious examination of the branch closures, as banks continue to reduce their branch networks.

“Banks are shutting branches across Australia, leavingconsumers and businesseswithout access to financial services,” Ms Angrisano said.

“It is clear that cuttingthe branchnetworkis being done to reduce costs and maintain profits.

“While hundreds of banks have been closed in recentyears, alargenumberofbank staff have also lost their jobs.

“The coalitions taskforce was acomplete waste of time andmoney andwas dominatedand run by thebanks.

Photo: TomParry THE Finance Sector Union (FSU) has welcomed the new Senate inquiry into regional bank closures, to be held by the Senate Committee on Rural and Regional Affairs.

“We had this farcical situation where the banks were overseeing an inquiry into themselves, and consequently arange of importantvoices, including the FSU,were excludedfrom that process. This cannot happen again if this inquiry is to have any substance and impact.

“We know that regional communities are doing it tough without access to banking services. The FSU will also encourage the Senate committee to examine the impact branch closures have on the workers who havelost their jobs.

“The FSU has been at the forefront of the branch closure issue for years, and has campaigned long and hard not just for an effective and holistic government inquiry into bankbranch closures, but as an advocate for the manygroups of Australians who have been disadvantaged by bank branch closures.”

Port carnivaldefies thewet

ATTENDEES have called Saturday’s Day @The Port event ahugesuccess, after 11 hours of wallto-wall free entertainment.

Wellington Shire Council’s first Day @The Port was held at the Port of Sale Precinct on Saturday, February 4and an estimated 10,000 people stopped by to see what all the fuss was about.

The event startedat10.30am, and with many eager to be firstinline for food trucksand free carnival rides,the PortofSale’sGrand Canal Drive was soon full of people of all ages andbackgrounds.

Day @The Port was the vision of the council’s arts andculture team, includingThe Wedge Performing ArtsCentre, Sale Library,and Gippsland Art Gallery, with big support from The Middle of Everywhere and the Central Gippsland Visitor Centre, based at the Port of Sale’s Wellington Centre.

Afree family-friendly, carnival-likeevent was promised in the lead up, and that is exactly what was delivered. Albeit awet and windy summer’s day, the community supportfor Day @The Port was unmatched.

Wellington Shire CouncilMayor,Ian Bye, attended the event and was blown away by the community support.

“I knewhow much hard work went into organising the day, but to see so many peopleatthe Port of Sale and exploring the wider precinct was an amazing outcome,” Cr Bye said.

“My favourite part was having so much entertainment in one place, it was easy to bring the family and keep them entertained for hours. The carnival rides were full all day,Sale library hosted kids’ activities, and food trucks had to keep restocking to meet demands. Then the live music and outdoor bar came alive after dark.”

There were clear winners to the day; local food trucks andmakers set up along the glorious Portof

Council thanked everyonewho braved the wintery weather to support Day@ The Port, andsaidtheyhoped to host morecommunity events like this in the future.

ShireCouncil

Sale, carnival rides, and free performances of The Australian Shakespeare Company’s Wind in The Willows provided free entertainment for kids and

adults all day long. And finally, live entertainment didn’t disappoint. The rain cleared just in time for 6pm to roll around and the main stage came alive with local band The Soultanas, followed by Danny Spencer, and headline act, funk band Vaudeville Smash from Melbourne.

Thousands of people gathered in the outdoor amphitheatre adjacent to The Wedge Performing Arts Centre to dance the night away.

The community came out in support of all aspects of the event, sharing positive comments in person and on social media in the days after the event.

LindaHorstman shared on Facebook that it was “wonderful to see people of all ages out and enjoying afree event”, and Sue Centra said, “Hats off to all the people that put in the hard yards”.

Investment in the localcommunity topped $800,000, and through promotion of the region by The Middle of Everywhere, visitors spent on average $80 each during, and in the days after the event.

Fifteen food trucks attended on the day, and with apreference for local businesses,most weresold out and needed to restockafter abusy lunch rush.

Council thanked the local creators who braved the weather and set up stalls, offering aMakers Market for visitors. Although many needed to pack up to avoid the wind, theirattendance was welcomed by many eager early-morning visitors.

Thousands of visitors made their way back into Sale to catch aglimpse of The Middle of Everywhere fireworks display at 9.40pm, rounding out afantastic day at the Port of Sale.

Council thanked everyone who braved the wintery weather to support Day @The Port, and said they hoped to host more community events like this in the future. It’s the communitysupportthatmakes it possible.

Gippsland trains still ‘off the rails’

CELEBRATIONS by thosewho welcomed the news that trains would resume on the Gippsland line this month were short-lived, as replacement coaches were quickly announced for the majority of services.

NationalsMember for GippslandSouth, Danny O’Brien, saidthat while he understoodthe importance of the work being undertaken on the line, the disruption would be far more bearable for those east of Traralgon if the works promised resulted in increased services.

“After touting that trains would resume on the Gippsland line this month, it was revealed that replacement coacheswouldcontinue to operatefor most services from February 4-8, February 10-15 and February 20-March 1,” he said.

“The services that are running are running on areduced timetable and many continue to be late or operate without buffet services.

“It is understandable that timetables will be impacted by such major upgrades to the line, what is not understandable is that many of the residents who utilise the Gippsland line willnot benefit from these upgrades.”

Mr O’Brien said he had been campaigning for additional train services to Sale and Bairnsdale formany years.

“It is disappointingthatthe Andrews Labor government continues to failtocommittonew services on the Gippsland line east of Traralgon, despite major upgrade works.

“Central and East Gippsland have just three return train servicesaday when there are 20 a dayfromTraralgon just down the road.

“Additional services to Sale and Bairnsdale would

Arrest after Maffra residences burgled

Police Beat

with Stefan Bradley

DETECTIVES from Wellington Criminal Investigation Unit have charged aman from Warragul with three burglaries and four thefts following aseries of residential burglaries in Maffra during mid-January. It is alleged the male entered three residences in Maffra and stole personal items including car keys. No vehicles were stolen during this series.

Wellington CIU detectives are continuing to investigate other burglaries and thefts in the area around Maffra about this time.

Vehicle impounded after not stopping for police in Heyfield

ON Monday, February 6, it is alleged a motorist failed to stop on direction from police in Heyfield.

Two days later, Heyfield Police said they spoke to a24-year-old Tinamba man in relation to the alleged incident. Police impounded the vehicle for a period 30 days.

The man will be summonsed to appear in court at alater date in relation to Fail to Stop on Police Direction and other traffic matters.

help drive economic growth in our region, which is why The Nationals had made acommitment to increase services on the line if we had been elected to government at the last election.

“Itistimefor the Andrews Labor government to matchthat commitment and deliver for all of Gippsland.”

Photo:Wellington

Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien,iscampaigning for moretrain services to Sale.

Photo: Contributed

Government appointsspecialist panel to plan revivedSEC’srole

THE state government is laying the foundations to deliver government-owned renewable energy, with an expert advisory panel appointed to guide the revived State Electricity Commission (SEC).

Premier DanielAndrews andMinister for the StateElectricity Commission, LilyD’Ambrosio, announcedlastweek specialists energy and business leaders will advise government on bringing back the SEC, and how the state can best generate clean energy to drive down power bills.

The expert advisory panel will guide the SEC’s work to make sure it delivers the maximum benefits of public energy ownership to Victorians -with lower power prices, faster investment in renewable energy, storage, and lower emissions.

“We promised we wouldn’t waste amoment setting up the SEC to put power back in Victorians’ hands, and we’re getting on with it, with our expert panel up and running to make sure we deliver cheap, clean energy for Victorians,” Mr Andrews said.

The SEC’s expert advisory panel will be chaired by John Bradley -secretary of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action -and will also include Audrey Zibelman, Andy Penn, Anna Skarbek, AlanFinkel and Jo Benvenuti, alongside interim SEC chief executive, Chris Miller.

Audrey Zibelman is aformermanaging director and chief executive at the Australian Energy MarketOperator(AEMO), where she oversaw the ongoing transition to adecarbonised energy grid.

As former chief executive of Telstra, Andy Penn’s leadership of an ambitious, 5G-focused transformationwill bring insights on delivering an essential service withinacommercially competitive environment.

Anna Skarbek is chief executive of Climateworks Centre, anot-for-profit developing the low carbon economy, and is also aformer banker and founding board director of the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and the Carbon Market Institute.

Former chiefscientist, Alan Finkel, is aneuroscientist and engineer. He led the National Electricity Market Review, development of the National Hydrogen Strategy, and panel advising

the 2020 Low Emissions Technology Roadmap. Jo Benvenuti is aformer executive officer of the Consumer Utilities Advocacy Centre, specialising in consumer engagement, energy and water, and

also held an executive position for Victoria’s Energy and Water Ombudsman.

Ms D’Ambrosio said the panel carried top-notch qualifications, and looked forward to working

alongside them.

“The revived SEC will be supported by six of Australia’s leading business and energy experts -ensuring Victoria has the best advice to deliver government-owned renewable energy, slashing energy prices and emissions,” she said.

The stategovernment will initially invest $1 billion towards delivering 4.5 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2035 -the equivalent replacement capacity of Loy Yang A.

The SEC will begin market sounding for its first investment in the first half of this year, engaging withindustry,unions and trainingproviders through askills and workforce forum.

TheSEC will help deliver more than59,000new jobs to construct, maintain, and operateclean energy assets.

Aguaranteed 10 per cent -or6000- of those jobs by 2035,will be apprenticeshipsand traineeships, delivering secure jobs for young Victorians and building the workforce agovernment-owned energy sector needs.

Later this year, the governmentwill hold a Renewable Energy Skills and Workforce Forum, bringing together representatives fromcleanenergy employers, unions, training providers, peak bodies and Traditional Owner groups.

The forum willensure Victoriahas the workforce and skills for the thousands of new roles needed to construct, maintain, and operate clean energy assets under Victoria’s renewables policy.

The state government will also establish the SEC Centre of Training Excellence to coordinate and work with theVictorian Registration and Qualifications Authority to accredit coursesin clean energy -aswell as adding clean energy to the VCE Vocational Major.

The SEC will help deliver Victoria’s renewable energy and emissions targets -hitting 95 per cent renewable energy by 2035 and net zero by 2045, drivingthe creation of 59,000 jobs by 2035 and increasing gross state product by about $9.5 billion, according to consultant’s analysis.

Premier Daniel Andrews and StateElectricity Commissioner Lily D’Ambrosio in Yallourn last year, announcingthe SEC will be enshrinedinthe Constitution.

Photo: File

Cancer battle upends new life

Stefan Bradley

AFTER spending years working towards alifeyou envisioned foryourselfand yourlovedones, all it takes is an unexpected event for it to all come crashing down.

This is what 33-year-old Chilean woman and farm worker, Lisbett Lillo, is coming to terms with, after finding out before Christmas she has acomplicated and aggressive breast cancer, which turned out to be Stage 4.

It has spread beyond her lymph nodes, and she will need chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

The diagnosismeans it’sunlikely she willbeable to achieve her goal of gaining permanent residency in Australia, as applicants with cancer generally don’t pass the health requirements.

Thenew Stratfordresident had only just moved to Gippsland in October with her Dutch partner, Puck Witjes, and their cat, having worked in the Australian agricultural industry throughout the COVID pandemic.

“I’ve been allover Australia; everything I’ve seen in Gippsland is just too pretty, and the people have been so nice,” Ms Lillo said.

“Within the next five years, we had hoped to get our permanent residencies in Australia, because that was the dream. We love the country, and we love being together here and working.

“I’ve worked in agriculture in Australiafor about four years, previously at avineyard over an hour away from Mildura. The company we’re working for now were willing to sponsor us straight away.”

In her home country, Ms Lillo studied to be an IndustrialCivil Engineer and has aMasters in the ScienceofEngineering, butagriculturehas become her passion.

Working very long hours at Farm Express Salads -avegetablefarm in Boisdale-MsLillo has been driving tractors, helping to harvest lettuces, cabbages, spinach and othergreens. With staff shortages across the country, many crops would be left on the ground to rot without farm workers like Ms Lillo and Mr Witjes.

Ms Lillo says she enjoys the job and doesn’t mind the 10-to-12-hour days.

“I lovedriving utes, workingwith the machinery, being outsideand learningabout food production. I’malways moving and the day goes by quickly,” she said.

All was well until one day she turned up to work one morning justacoupleofweeks before Christmas.

“I was lifting something heavy as Iusually do, when Ifelt pain near my armpit area. Ifelt agolf ball-sized lump there and Ifreaked out.”

After doing some tests,she was informed that she had cancer. Due to the end of year holidays, there was atwo-week delay in her seeing aspecialist.

StaffatStrauss Medical, Sale, describe Ms Lillo as abubbly, warm-hearted youngwoman, and her positive attitude shone through as she showed this reporter around the farm last Tuesday.

Despite speaking about her ordeal for about an hour, still avery recent development in her life, Ms Lillo seemed surprisingly upbeat.

“That’sbecause Ihad acry in thetractor today,” shesaid.

“I always try to cry on my own, that’s usually how Ideal with things.

“I’m trying to be positive. That’sthe best way to beat it.

“Everyone at workhas beenwonderful. They bought me acake because they knew Iwas going to start chemotherapy.

“I am in some pain right now, because I’ve got acouple of lumps in my breast and armpit area. They’re quite big and Ifeel them when I’mdriving, walking or doing whatever. It feels like an electric shock that goes through your body and it’s very painful.”

The physical, mental and emotional toll acancer

diagnosis can haveonsomeone, togetherwiththe permanentresidency dream now out of reach, is significant.

“Mentally, I’vebeen going throughsomany things,” Ms Lillo said, after taking adeep, contemplative breath.

“I was going through so many things withmy sponsorship visa (to work and stay in Australia).

Iwas already going through stress, so the cancer made it way bigger. When Iheard the words ‘breast cancer’ for the first time, it was as if my whole world was crashing down.

“Emotionally, I’ve been crying and there’s been anger, because why is this happening to me right now, when I’m enjoying my life? And Iworked so hard to get here.”

Sadly, it doesn’t end there. Ms Lillo must also endure afinancial toll.

Even though Ms Lillo has been living and workinginAustralia for five years, she is not eligible for Medicaresupport. She willrequire multiple scans, tests, surgeries and chemotherapy,and only asmall part of her costs will be covered by hermedical insurance.

While going back to Santiago for treatment was an option, doing so would mean abandoning everything she’s worked towards in Australia over the past five years, and woulddelay treatment even further. That time is precious.

We all know that timeismoney, but when it comes to lifesaving care, time is life.

Ms Lillo’stimehas been dependent on her private health insurer Bupa giving the go-ahead for chemotherapy.

“Just the thought that my life is in their hands, and they say they will have an answer by today (Tuesday, February 7), and they didn’t -itfreaks me out,” she said.

“Today Iwas thinking, what if Idie because of this?

“This is one extra day for (Bupa) to make a decision,but that’s one lessday in my life.My entirelife; and I’mdefinitely notready to dieyet.”

In the following days, Bupa still didn’t confirm whether or not they would cover Ms Lillo’s treatment; but Sale Hospital andtheir oncologyteam

decided to schedule chemotherapy for today, with or without Bupa, and will help cover the treatment.

Ms Lillo sees it as just one example of Gippsland generosity.

That Gippsland generosity came through again after Strauss Medical set up aGoFundMe page for Ms Lillo to easeher costs.She was shocked whenshe wasinformed thatover$15,000 has been donated so far.

“So many people from different parts of theworld, from back in Chile and peopleI’vemet around Australia (have donated),” Ms Lillo said.

“I usually go through things on my own. Inever get my parents or my partner involved, but it’s time for me to let go of pride. I’ve realised that I need help, and I’m grateful to everyone.

“And Isay to other young women, please go get checked. Istarted with Stage 4breast cancer. It usuallydoesn’t happen to womenunder40, but it happened to me.”

An effective method for early detection of breast cancerinyoungwomenisbreast awareness

Women of all ages should become aware of how their breasts and axillanormally lookand feel, and to report any new or unusual changes to their general practitioner without delay.

Ms Lillo and Mr Witjes have been together for four years, andinacountry very far away from where they grew up, they’re lucky to have each other.

Christmas last year was very difficult, with the couple notknowingifMsLillowould surviveto see the next one.

“This whole situation has been hard on him, he hasn’t said much, buthas been very supportive and understanding,” Ms Lillo said.

“For Valentine’s Day we haven’t planned anything. But since it is my first day of chemo,Iknow he is going to make it special.”

Those wanting to support Lisbett Lillo’s cancer treatment can visit the GoFundMe page on https:// gofund.me/a2c29538

Roses are Red ,Violets areBlue Rosesare Red, Violets

Roses areRed ,Violetsare Blue Roossesare R Red , V Vioolletts s a arre e B Blluue

Youhateaccounting Youhate accounting So we’ll do it foryouwe’lldoitfor you

You hate accounting u h haatte a accoouunntti i inng g So we’lldoitfor you So w we e ’ ’lll l d do o i it t f for r y yoou u

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Chilean woman and Stratford farm worker, Lisbett Lillo, who is battling Stage 4 breast cancer Photo: Stefan Bradley

Celebrating 60 years of marriage

NORMAN and Marjory Cameron had awonderful afternoon celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this month,together with more than 40 family and friends.

Much to the amusement of all present,Norman gaveMarjory a battery-operated lawn mower, saying, “She already has an axe and ashovel!”

Then later came the appropriate present: he gaveher abeautiful diamond ring.

Norman and Marjory first met when Norman was astudent for the Presbyterian Ministry in 1957. They weremarried at the Presbyterian Church, RosannaonFebruary 2, 1963.

Normanwas ordained as aMinister in 1965. Murrayville in the Victorian Mallee wastheir first parish.

From there they moved to the remote outback Aboriginal community, Mowanjum,inthe Kimberley, where Norman was superintendent. Theyarrivedtherewith three children and left with four.

Thenextmove was to Swifts Creek in Gippsland. Five years later they moved to the Presbyterian Church in Stratford, which soon became the Uniting Church.

After 10 years they moved to Rosedale, their last parish before retiring to their farm at LLowalong, near Stratford, in 1996. There they raised beef cattle, produced honey and grew their own fresh produce.

Due to Norman’s ill health,in2021, they soldthe farm, (underpressure from the kids),and downsized from thepaddock andmoved into town.

Norman and Marjory’s to have their four children, six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, (soon to be eight), all living close by.

In all the places they have lived,

Norman and Marjory have enjoyed being veryinvolved with their communities, such as ecumenical activities, church camps, youth groups, local schools, community Christmas carols, Church musicals, dances, scouts, art shows, landcare and mountain hiking excursions.

Throughouttheir journey, Norman and Marjory have made wonderful and lasting friendships. Their Uniting Church family at Stratford surprised them with a specialcelebratory morning tea and scrumptious cake following the Sunday service.

Norman and Marjory cutting the cake at Church morning tea.

Photos: Contributed

Family photo; pictured is Marion, Malcolm, Heather,James, (front) Norman and Marjory Cameron.

Complaints seeincrease

AS the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) Quarter Two Complaints Report reveals anoticeable increase in complaints abouttelecommunications companies, Consumer Action is reiterating its call for more effective consumer protections in the telco sector.

The report shows a9.9 per cent increase in the numberofcomplaints (17,903intotal) received between October and December 2022, from residential and small businesses, with more than half the complaints about mobile services.Complaintsabout mobile services increased 19.1 per cent and internet services 10.2 per cent compared to the previous quarter.

“Telecommunications are an essential service, indispensable for work,education, health and social connection, and akey point in the TIO Report is that complaints about customer service failings, with no or delayed action continue to be adominant concern,” said Stephanie Tonkin, chief executive of Consumer Action.

“We regularly hear from callers to the National Debt Helplinewho have been disconnected from their telco service or refused hardship when they need support.

“The TIO report also points to the Optus data breach and the unauthorised disclosure of personal information as adriver for complaints,which is particularlyconcerningin an age of rampant online scams.”

Ms Tonkin said for too long,telcoeshad been self-regulated, which meant that much of the basic consumer protections were set by the industry themselves, rather thanby an independent regulator or government authority.

“It is time the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, took steps to ensure telcoes are subject to safeguards that are consistent with other essential services, like electricity, gas, and water,” she said.

“Australian telcoes can and must do better and we clearlyneed government reform of the system to drive this. This will drive down complaints at the Ombudsman.”

Be awareofyourbushfire survial plan this summer

AS the Victorianfire season carries on and the risk of grassfires increases,the CFA is urging peopleto have abushfire survival plan in place and know when to leave early.

CFA crews have responded to dozens of significantfast-movinggrass andscrub fires this season Those living near areas that have bush, forest, long grass or coastal scrub need to consider their fire plan and understand the Fire Danger Ratings and what they mean.

The new Australian Fire Danger Rating System was introduced lastyear and reducesthe number of ratinglevels to four;: Moderate, High,Extreme and Catastrophic.

On days of Extreme fire danger, fires will spread quicklyand be extremelydangerous, so leaving bushfire risk areas early in the day is the safest option.

On days of Catastrophic fire danger, lives and

property are likely to be affected, so for survival peopleshould leavebushfire riskareasearlyin the morning or the night before.

CFA Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan, said it was extremelydifficult to think clearly during an emergency, so it was crucial for Victorians living in high-risk areas to have aplan in place.

“It’s as simple as having awritten and practised plan, so you and your family can put it into action when you’re faced with the risk of fire,” he said.

He urged people to use Fire Danger Ratings as triggers to take action to keep themselves safe.

“Leaving early is the safest option on aday of Extreme or Catastrophic fire danger –houses are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in Catastrophic conditions,” Mr Heffernan said.

“Fire safetyisashared responsibilityacross the community and on high-risk days you cannot expectafire truckateveryproperty.It’s your

responsibility to make the best possible decision for you and your family based on the current Fire DangerRatings and official warnings for yourarea.

There are four levels of fire danger in the new system:

 Moderate -Planand prepare

 High -Beready to act

 Extreme -Takeactionnow to protect your life and property

 Catastrophic -For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas

The systemalsointroduced aNoRating levelfor days where action is required by the community.

To prepare your fire plan, visit the CFA website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan.

To check the daily Fire Danger Rating and four day forecast, visit cfa.vic.gov.au.

BoM datashows 2022 as being 22nd hottest

LAST year was awarm and wet year for most of Australia, according to the Bureau of Meteorology’s official record of Australia’s climateand notable weather events for 2022 Australia’snational mean temperature was 0.50 °C warmer than the 1961-1990 average, making 2022 the 22nd-warmest year on record (equal with2006) since national temperature records began in 1910.

The AnnualClimate Statement for 2022 includes afullanalysisand description of last year’s rainfall, temperature, water resources, climate influences and more.

Rainfall was very muchabove averagefor the south-eastern quarter of the mainland, where persistent rain resulted in huge flooding affecting largeareas, multiple times during the year.

Spring in 2022 was the second-wettest on record for Australia, and the wettest on recordfor the Murray-Darling Basin, for New South Wales and for Victoria.

National rainfall was 26 per cent above the 1961-1990 annual average making 2022 the ninth-wettest year on record since 1900.

The high rainfall experienced across much of eastern Australia was consistent with awet phase of natural climate variability for the region -namely aLaNiña, anegative Indian Ocean Dipole in winter and spring, and apersistently positivephaseofthe Southern AnnularMode from mid-autumn.

The 2022-23 La Niña has been the third in arow. It is only the fourth time three La Niña events in arow have beenobserved in the bureau record since 1900 (otherswere1954-57, 1973-76and 1998-2001).

Rainfall was belowaverage for westernTasmania, much of the north of the Northern Territory, and the far south-west of Western Australia.

Water storage levels have been high across much of Australia during 2022, although some storages were still low for parts of central coast Queensland,

western Tasmania, south-east New South Wales and western Victoria.

Annual maximum temperatures were above averagefor most of northern Australia, Tasmania and parts of the west coast but below average for New South Wales, southernQueensland and parts of South Australia.

Annual minimum temperatures were above or very much above average for most of Australia.

The bureau’s official annual record of climate can be used by governments, businesses and communities to better understand the weatherevents that impacted them over the calendar year. More information is available in the AnnualClimate Statement 2022 on the bureau’s website.

Further information aboutthe impact of longterm climate trends is available in the State of the Climate 2022 released by the Bureau and CSIRO in November 2022.

Changes havebeen applied to mask wearingrulesacross Central Gippsland Health effective immediately.

Visitors can nowwear surgical masks instead of N95 masks.

We will review mask wearing protocols regularly and remember, do not attend CGH is youare experiencing COVID or flu-like symptoms.

Newyear home safety check

THE new year is an ideal time to give your home asafety health check.

Thereare afew simple things you can do to ensure your home is safer in 2023.

 Review your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate home and contents cover;

 Ensure you have afire blanket in your kitchen and within easy reach;

 Check that any fire extinguishers are in good working order;

 Check that your smoke alarms are working properly;

 Check for damaged appliance cords, power points or light switches;

 Check that batteries are stored in acool, dry place to prevent fire risk;

 Check for damage to any gas appliances;

 Store e-bikes and e-scooters outside in acool place and unplug them when they are charge;

 If you have small children, ensure that curtain and blind cords are secured, and;

 If you own apool, check that the gate isn’t

propped open and there is nothing next to the fence that children can climb over.

RACV head of home and business insurance, Kirsty Hayes, said RACV has been witnessing an increase in safety incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, used in many toys, e-scooters, e-bikes, andsporting equipment.

“Between July 2021 and July 2022, Fire Rescue Victoria responded to at least 120lithium-ion battery incidents,” Ms Hayes said.

“If you have purchased atoy, e-bike or e-scooter overChristmas that contains alithium-ion battery, it is importanttobeaware of the risk that they can pose.

“E-bikeand e-scooter owners should only purchase areputable brand, store them outside, unplug them once they are charged, take care to avoid damaging them, and not leave them in hot environments.

“The same advice applies to toys -they should also be kept in acool place.”

The amount you insure your home for should be

enough to rebuildand replace your contents if you had to do it today.

This is particularly relevant given the risingcost of building materials.

When calculating your sum insured, there are a few things to think about.

If you underinsureyour home, youmay be caught short if you need to completely rebuild.

Ms Hayes also explains how inflation can impact the cost of rebuilding your home.

“Itisimportant to revisit your sums insured this year as you may be surprised by how inflationhas impacted current rebuilding costs,” she said.

“A simpleway to estimate what it might cost to rebuild your home is to use the home building calculator on RACV’swebsite, whichtakes into account factors such as current materials and labour costs.

“What you think it might cost to rebuild or repair ahouse and the actual cost are often miles apart.

“For example, areplacement buildmust meet the latest building codes, including higher standards

new life helping

as PTSD companion animals

RETIREDgreyhounds will be retrained to serve as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) companion animals for Australia’s Federal Police in aworldfirst initiative announced in Canberra last week.

“Thisisatruly historic announcement, we are talkingabout awhole newcareer for our retired greyhound athletes to be trained for duty as a PTSD companion for Australian Federal Police Association members,” Greyhound Racing NSW chief executive, Robert Macaulay, said.

“I could not think of abetter match -the most loyal and loving animals in the world side-by-side with some of the bravest men and women in our country.”

The ground-breaking program is aunion between the AustralianFederal Police Association (AFPA), Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) and Greyhounds Australasia (GA).

AFPApresident, AlexCaruana, said his association was“proud and happy” to welcome greyhounds and partner with GRNSW and GA for this innovative initiative.

“The psycho-social benefits of pet ownership in general,and support animals in particular, for people living with Post-TraumaticStress Disorder (PTSD) are significant,” Mr Caruana said.

“Police Associationmembers are at asignificantly increasedrisk of acquiring mentalhealth injuries, and also of those injuries developing into PTSD.

“The typically busy operational work life of our members, coupled with socially isolating shifts and on-call rosters, means that they often find it exceedingly difficult to switch off and decompress after traumatic incidents. Highly-trained and decoratedpolice association membersinvariably becomebroken and insularthrough no fault of their own.

“Meeting and bonding withasupport animal gives them so much back over timeinterms of independence, manageableroutines,exercise and social independence. As an animal lover, I am personally thrilled that these wonderful dogs are abletohelp people in this way, and at the same time ‘retire’ into aloving environment where they will be showered with love,trust, and lots of treats.

“We look forward to this partnership benefitting AFPA members, and other police association members around Australia.”

AFPA memberswill also be given priority access

to adopt greyhounds through GreyhoundsAsPets

NSW.

The announcement comes less than three months after GRNSW and GA announced apartnership to supply greyhounds as pets to members of the Police Association of NSW. Theearly successofthat programhas led to GRNSW and GA creating anew career for greyhounds with the AFPA.

“When we launched the partnership with the PANSW, we heard from aformer officer that her adopted greyhound had significantlyhelped her withher strugglesasasufferer of PTSD,” Mr Macaulay said.

“While still in its infancy, that program has already delivered successful adoptions,but importantly it also delivered us the learning that PTSD dogs are in demand.

“Working closely with Greyhounds Australasia chair Robert Vellar, we realised we had to take

this one step further, and we have now been able to enter into an agreementwith oneofthe preeminent dog trainers in Australia, Steve Austin, to retrain our retired athletes for anew career as aPTSD companion animal.

“Thistruly is ground-breaking. We are talking about awhole newcareer for retired greyhound athletes. The retraining of greyhounds for acareer outside of racing opens the door to re-imagining the industry. It essentially creates anew career for any non-racing greyhound, and this is in addition to the demand for greyhounds as pets.”

Mr Vellar, aformer police officer, has driven the union between police and the greyhound industry with expertiseonboth sides. He knows both the therapeuticbenefit of greyhounds as pets and the comfort they can bring thosesufferinganxiety disorders.

“It is with great satisfaction that, together with our other stakeholders, we can announce this relationship with the members of the Australian Federal Police Association,” Mr Vellar said.

“The aim is to facilitate the perfect partnership involving the welfare of these beautiful greyhounds, and the welfare of first responders.

“As aformer police officer, Ifully understand the trauma that police face in their daily workloads. Our experience has been that by adopting a greyhound as aloyal,forever companion, it will assist in the managementofPost-TraumaticStress Disorder.

“Greyhounds are loyal, loving and low maintenance, and we say if you want agreat mate, adopt agreyhound.”

for energy efficiency, and flood and bushfire risk. The costs can add up.

“It’s also important to include outbuildings such as garages and carports and pools,makingsure you include demolition and debris removal costs.

“If you receivedany expensive Christmas presents last year, remember to add them to your contents sum insured. Before you do, it is agood idea to review all of your sums insured using the home contents calculator on RACV’s website.”

For more information about home and contents insurance, visit the RACV website.

ROUND 8ofthe federal government’s StrongerCommunitiesProgramme (SCP) is nowopen, with $22.7 million available to support community organisations and councils to deliver much needed local projects.

Funding of between $2500 and $20,000 is available for not-for-profit community organisationsand local governments to fund small capital projects that deliver social benefits and boost local community participation, including small-scale infrastructure upgrades, fit-outs and equipment purchases. Eachfederal electorate will receive acapped amount of $150,000 to fund up to 20 local projects.

In Round 8, the government has included arequirementfor local MPs to outlinethe project nomination process to enhance the transparency of the program.

Nominations openedFebruary 82023 and close on April 26 this year.. Successful granteeswill be notified as soon as their grant is approved, allowing them to start their projects when ready.

Further informationincluding grant guidelines, eligibility requirements and the application process are available at https:// business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/ stronger-communities-programme-round-8

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King, said the program would deliver lasting infrastructure and much-needed equipment based on local priorities. “Every single community in Australia is unique, and the Albanese Government recognisesthat localgovernments, communityorganisations and thatpeople who live in their region bestunderstand their local priorities,” she said.

“That’s why we have put funding on the table to supportmore local governments and not-for-profits to deliver projects that will have apowerful impactintheir communities.”

Greyhounds areset to help federal police deal with PTSD.

Photo: Contributed

Crossword Puzzle No.8521

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. Two’scompany,but three is awhat?

2. In ‘Friends’, what was Rachel’ssurname?

3. According to Marilyn Monroe, which stone is agirl’sbest friend?

4. Ricky Ponting was aprofessionalinwhich sport?

TWO POINTERS

5. Which birdshares its name with acountry?

6. What did the Grinch steal, in the title of afamous children’snovel?

7. With around 37,000 outlets worldwide, what is the world’s biggest fast food chain?

8. Which medic has contractions in pregnancy named after him?

THREE POINTERS

9. Anthony Kiedis is the lead singer of which famous American band that is touring Australia at the moment?

10. Which mountain was home of the Greek gods?

11. Which acid builds up in the muscles during severe exercise?

12. Milliners make and design which items of clothing?

FOUR POINTERS

13. Clove hitch, Sheepshank, and Bowline areall what?

14. What is the name given to the practice of favouring your own relatives?

FIVE POINTER

15. Who am I? Clue: BorninCoogee, NSW in 1923 Iwas an actor and director and appeared in such shows as ‘Homicide’ and ‘The Sullivans’. Ispent 16 years in London whereI became famous there as well? Ialso appeared in the popular Australian movie ‘The Castle’.

HOW DID YOU FARE?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done; 15-22: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement;

Hit the books.

Target Time No.0145

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,

V A N A A T E G D

Howtoplay... Fill

Ad Standards welcomes new panel members

NINE new community representatives have been appointed by Ad Standards,Australia’s advertising complaints handling body, to the Ad Standards Community Panel.

The Ad Standards Community Panel is an independentand diverse groupresponsible for adjudicating complaints made by the public about advertising content.

The new community panel members represent a broad range of backgrounds and experiences, and include aformer refugee, alandscape construction apprentice, an artist and Aboriginal affairs advocate, amember of the Sikh community, astevedore, and the chief executive of anational organisation that supports transgender young people and their families.

Ad Standards’ executive director, Richard Bean, said the new appointments will add to the panel’s currentrange of people with backgrounds from across the Australian community.

“The selection process was excitingaswe received amultitude of applications fromeveryday Australians across the country,” he said.

“I believe we have succeeded in bringing together a groupofpeoplewho represent, as muchaspossible, the diversity of Australian society.”

The new communityrepresentatives will join 16 other communitypanelmembers, who meet regularly to consider complaintsabout advertising andtodetermine whether advertising aligns with community standards and Australia’s advertising rules. “The Ad Standards Community Panel is the centrepiece of Australia’s world-class advertising self-regulatorysystem. Diversityofbackground and opinion within the community panel is essential to ensuring decisions about advertising content reflect current community standards and values,” Mr Bean said.

“While they are active in their own communities, community panel members are not appointed to represent any particular interest group and, importantly, are independentofthe advertising industry.”

Alistofcurrent community panel members can be found on the Ad Standards website. The Ad Standards CommunityPanel.

Major progress on Gippsland upgrades

MAJOR upgradestothe Gippsland Line progressed in January, with almost seven kilometres of new tracks installed while trains weren’t running.

Acrewofalmost700 people worked more than 94,000 hours installing new track at Garfield, Bunyip, Longwarryand Morwell, while coaches replaced trains for Metro Tunnel works.

About 25,000 cubicmetres of fill and ballast -equivalent to the capacity of 10 Olympic-sized swimming pools -was excavatedtoallow new ballast and track to be laid.

Crews removed ballast and track at Bunyip, Longwarry and Morwell stations, and the Hope Street and McIntyre Roadlevelcrossings, and completed formation works including earthworks, drainage, stabilisation and excavationtobuild the new track.

Workiscontinuing at Traralgon Station to commission the lifts and finalise paths to the new overpassand stairs to ensure it is safe for pedestrians, with the overpass scheduled to open next month. Major construction of the station upgrades is complete, with station precinct works to be finished in coming months.

V/Line staff andcontractors also completed extensive maintenance along the Gippsland Line

while trains weren’t running, including replacing the bridge deck over the Bunyip River, and improvements to the machines that allow trains to change tracks in the stabling area near Traralgon Station.

Crewsalsoreplacedand repaired drainage under the track at Sale, Montgomeryand Stratford,while aspecial machine that improves the condition of the rail ran along the length of the line.

The Gippsland LineUpgrade is delivering anew signalling system for the line, which will enable additional services and future-proof the line.

Director of Regional Rail Revival, Mark Havryluk, said works were moving steadily.

“We’ve been working around the clock to get as much done as possible while coaches replaced trains for Metro Tunnel works,” he said.

“Now the track upgrades are done, we’re putting the finishing touches on our upgraded stations and completing the signalling design before the new signalling system begins operating later thisyear.”

Further disruptions will take place for commissioning, safety testing and driver training, to enable much-needed extra services between the peak services of Traralgon and Melbourne.

Photo: Contributed

Game-changing adaptation

StefanBradley

HBO’S The Last of Us is over halfway through its nine-episode firstseason, and it’s clear that if they stick the landing, it will be one of the best video game adaptations ever made.

The widely acclaimed The Last of Us game was originally released in 2013 on the PlayStation 3, and wasconsidered alandmark in videogame storytelling. Of all titles that would make an

New Briag exhibition

emotional TV show or film, The Last of Us has always come to mind.

And the series is demonstrating the strength of that original material because it’s avery faithful adaptation, and the changesmade thus far further enrich the world co-created by the game’s original director, Neil Druckmann, who has been heavily involved in the series. The show’s co-creator is Craig Mazin, afan of the game who is well-known for the masterful mini-series Chernobyl (2019).

The most memorable moments of the game still resonate emotionally, even to afan of the game who knows what’s going to happen. The performances of the lead actors who play Joel (PedroPascal) and

Ellie (Bella Ramsay) are grounded and powerful.

While The Last of Us plays in the post-apocalyptic zombiegenre, it’s astory aboutlove, and the desperate acts one commits to service that primal urge to protect those dear to us. The show represents a brutalworld where one would do any act of brutality to get through this fallen society.

Even if you’ve never played the game, this is a fantastically-written television series that from the verybeginning is gripping and createstension.

The Last of Us airs Mondays at 1pm on Foxtel, with the finale on March13. All episodes can be streamed on Binge.

Barker brings best in stand-up comedy to Sale

Stefan Bradley

IT wasanalmost-full house of Arj Barker fans, or soon-to-be-fans, at the John Leslie Theatre in Sale on Fridaynight.The Americancomedian, who has aprominent following in Australia, went throughsome of his best materialfromthe past three decades -with afew current jokes for good measure-inhis show The Best of ArjBarker: Power Hour With2023finallybeing the year that shows could go on withnoriskofcancellation or Covid restrictions, theenergy in the room was electric, and Barker fed on it. Alternating between speaking into the microphone and yelling alittle away from it, he deliveredpunchlineafter punchlinewith impeccable timing. Arj Barker loves to observe,

Embracing the Eucalypt Image: Contributed

BRIAGOLONG Art Gallery is thrilled to introduce its first exhibition for 2023:

Embracing the Eucalypt

Friends and former colleagues, Lesley Duxbury and Ruth Johnstone work and live amongst eucalypts. Lesley documents and celebrates towering forest redeemsurvivors in Briagolongand environs, while Ruthwhose studio in the north-east highlands of Victoria is enveloped by nativeforest -commemorates the scars of logging and bushfires with leafy garlands and circular motifs.

The exhibition will be opening on Saturday, February 18 from 2pm.

Following its opening, Embracing the Eucalypt will be open for public viewing on Saturdays and Sunday between 11am and 4pm.

For more information on the Gallery or its latestexhibition,phone 0429 196 269, send an email to briagolongartgallery@gmail.com or visit the official Facebook and Instagram pages @briagolongartgallery

THE Gippsland YouthDrama Workshop (GYDW) is encouraging young performers to help celebrateits 30th anniversary with the launch of anew season and show in June.

Based in Traralgon, the theatre group will soon begin writing and rehearsingfor the newshow, and is inviting new members to become involved.

Director Phillip AMayer saysthe main aim of the group is to enhance the young performer’s natural talents, andprovideapositive educational theatre experience in asupportive environment.

“Drama helps buildresilience, well-being,self esteem and engagement, and participation exposes young people to essential skills which help them cope with challenges,” Mayer said.

“There is nothing but positives, and it’s aprivilege being apart of instilling an appreciation for the performing arts in regional youth.

“It’s areal positive for the community and the kids love it.”

Established in 1993,the theatre program is

and loves wordplay.

He knows we hate roads, and he knows we’re abit more patient on theroad in Sale, but he also made afair point thatthere are roadworkseverywhere. Saying that we’d be the greatest town or city when the roads are finished got abig laugh, but it makes us think: do we really have it that bad here?

He points out that Australians arealways impressedwhenanAmerican like him says “Mel-burn” correctly, whichshows how muchhe appreciates our great state of “Vic-to-ree-a”.He hasn’t quite grasped “Gipps-LAAND” yet, but he’ll get there eventually.

Agreatesthitsalbum is always agood purchase, but so is aticketfor Arj Barker’s best jokes. He stuck around afterwardstosignDVDs and humorous stickers he used at the performance.

unique in thatevery production is originaland conceived by the participants.

Since its establishment, GYDW has produced more than 100 original shows involving over 2200 regional performers from right across Gippsland, including Sale and Maffra.

The workshop sessions focus on building performance skills, as well as confidence, team work, vocabulary, communication, responsibilityand many other attributes transferable to life.

“Takingpart in the dramatic arts is one of the best ways to develop the imagination and support creative expression, especially for young people,” Mayer said.

“Collaborating with peers, discussing big ideas and learning the skills of live performance can help prepare kids for real-world challenges.”

As part of the Workshop, young performers build plot, characters,themesand humorous sceneswhich they find interestingand valuable in expressing their ideas.

“Weincorporate improvisations, theatre sports games, writer’s workshop sessions, the rehearsal process, stage craft, voice projection and afinal production open to family, friends and the general public,” Mayer explained.

“All the participants are given good-sized roles commensurate with their experience and ability, and they buzz with excitement at performing in front of alarge audience.”

The group is further enhancedbymembers of the award-winning Here Thereand Everywhere TheatreCompany, also run by Mayer.

“We have an amazing team helping to produce theatre with wonderfully talented and dedicated young people from across Latrobe,” he said.

“Our curriculum is designed and delivered by

Four youngsters keenly participateinthe Workshop’s production ‘The WizardofAussie’ Image: Contributed

experienced performers with apassion for making adifference in young people’s lives.”

Rehearsals for the Gippsland Youth Drama Workshop are held on Wednesdays in theVRI Hall, Traralgon from 5.15pm to 6.45pm. Openings are available for young participants from upper-primary school age through to 17 years.

Final applications for the new show close soon; bookings are essential as placesare extremely limited.

GYDW’s show is scheduled for June 24, and will be performed at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre.

For further information, contact the director on 0409 878 688.

PedroPascal plays Joel in HBO’s TheLastof Us. Image: HBO

Arj Barker performed in Sale on Fridaynight Image: Contributed

30 years of youth drama in Gippsland

Best of both worlds

This stunningmid-century modern design home has been updated to contain all the modern conveniences of the 2020s while still showcasing the superb craftsmanship of the 1960s.

Acomprehensive refurbishment has prepared thismuch-loved family home for anew generation to enjoy the best of both worlds.

The property comprises four bedrooms, all with built-in robes; anew kitchen with stainless steel appliances and stone benchtops; and an updated bathroom and ensuite.

The living room features many elements of mid-century style, such as exposedbeams and floating hearth.

Other features include formal living room with open fireplace and ductedheating/cooling, separate family/TV room, office/study with its own private entry, sandstone flagged terracewith shade trees, double carport and cellar.

The large picture windows across the front of the house capturemagnificent views of the mountains. All rooms in this elegant home benefit from floor to ceiling windows looking onto the established gardens.

The home is in asuperb location and an inspection will certainly not disappoint.

Briefdetails fdetails

Property: Renovated four-bedroom Renovatedfour-bedroom home in sought-after location sought-af tion

Address: 18 HenryStreet, Maffra Henry Street,Maffra

Price: $565,000

Inspection: By Appointment

Agent: BrettLanigan, Gippsland Real Estate, 0427 517577 or 5147 2200

Plentyofland with views of lake

This lovely property,located right next to the township of Coongulla and overlooking LakeGlenmaggie, is indeed ararefind, with options both for leisure activities close by and scope to transform the land into avariety of uses.

The land size is approximately 24.88 hectares, or 61.4 acres, mostly cleared to pasture with small areas of trees and has a tranquil, natural feel

Akey feature is the magnificent views of LakeGlenmaggie and surrounding scenery, available from the elevated points.

Four large dams on the property give the new owner the option to use this stored water for any number of things -trees, vines, herbs, flowers, the possibilities are endless. Or if it’s grazing or horses, it’sperfect for that too.

On the leisure side, the property is only two minutes to the boat ramp for water sports or fishing on the lake, and the Victorian Alps is right at the back door

The current vendors have had afamily connection to the property for over 60 years and are hoping the new owners get as much enjoyment from it as they have.

Briefdetails fdetails

Property:24.88 ha (approx.61.4 ty: 24.88 acres) block re

Address: 344 Ryans Road, Coongulla Ry Road,Coongulla

Price: $625,000

Agent: Tim Missen, Wellington Real Estate, 0488 483 000 e, 483000

HENRY STREET,MAFFRA

*Stunning Mid Century Modern design home has been updated to contain all the modern conveniences

*Acomprehensive refurbishment

*New kitchen with stainless steel appliances and stone benchtops

*4bedrooms, 2bathrooms

*Living room features many elements of Mid-century style such as exposed beams and floating hearth

*Large picturewindows across the front of the house capture magnificent views of the mountains

85 STEPHENSON STREET,SALE

*Situated on just over 4acres on the outskirts of the Sale township (2 titles)

*Original homestead circa approx 1870 with alarge extension which features all todays modern conveniences

*3bedrooms

*Huge open plan living area overlooking creek at rear

*Separatefamily room

*American barn style shed with concretefloor,power and a loftfor extrastorage

*Fruit orchard, raised vegie beds, rustic firepit area and separatepaddock ideal for ahorse

7SWANLAKE DRIVE, SALE

QUALITY BUILTHOME WITHLOADS OF EXTRAS

*Award winning Colmac Homes display home

*4bedrooms,2bathrooms

*Openplan living area

*Stunning kitchen with large island bench, walk in pantry and 900mm stove

*Separatelounge/theatreroom

*Double garage with automatic door and direct access intodwelling

*Alfresco/BBQ area featuring outdoor blinds

FOR SALE $749,950

plus

BEING offered for sale at auction, 140 Marley Street provides the opportunity to buy aproperty that purchasers can completely put their own stamp on, or even potentially pursue future development opportunities.

Located only ashort distance to the Sale CBD and on agood-sized 764sqm block,the tidy weatherboard home has good bones but is ready for someone to come in and update it, taking advantage of the high ceilings and large, well-lit rooms.

The home features two large bedrooms, a

Briefdetails fdetails

Property: Twobedroom home ty: Tw edroom

Address: 140MarleyStreetSale ess: 140MarleyStreet Sale

Auction: Saturday, February25at February 25 at 11am on-site

Agent: Tony Kiss, Wellington Real To Estate, 0419 526 637

spacious living area with gas heater,kitchen with gas upright cooker,bathroom with shower over bath, vanity and toilet, plus a laundry and second toilet.

Ultimately,the floor plan could be adjusted during renovations to suit the purchasers needs.

The large rear yard is securely fenced with some established trees, plus small sheds but again provides ample opportunity to landscape to your liking.

This is agreat package with plenty of potential. Call today to arrange an inspection.

ON Thursday, January 19, two bales of wool comprised of fleeces donated to the Omeo Show were soldatthe Melbourne National Selling Centre. This was the eighth consecutive year the auction had taken place and the$15,736 in proceeds wereagain donated to the HEMS 2Victorian Air Ambulance. Combined with the previous seven years of auction proceedsthis brought the gross totaldonatedto Helimed to $101,715.50.

The Helimed charity began as away to encourage wool growers to support the Omeoshow fleece competition by donating wool that would also supporta cause important to ruraland remote Gippslanders. Many of the farming communities rely on the helicopterand paramedics to receive the fast, quality carewhich in turn saves lives.Almost all of the growers who attended the auction on the day have usedHelimed or know someone who has.

Abus and driver, kindlydonated by Dysons, brought 30 eager passengers along to the Melbourne wool selling centre to watch the bales sell. Among the group was Omeo Show Society President, Graham Simons, Secretary, Lisa Lees, and President of the StratfordLions Club, Lindsay Ross. Elders Gippsland District Wool Managers, Madi Gallagher and Mal Nicholls, who have continued to support and facilitated the auction over the previous eight years were also in attendance.

Roy Dyson, RegionalServices Operations Manager of Dysons Group, showed his support to thecause saying: “Dysons have employeesspread far and wide across regional and rural Victoria, especiallyright throughout East Gippsland. We are thankful to be giventhe opportunity to support acause that could one day give them and their families the care they require in atime of need.”

Prior to the day’s normal selling arrangements ,the two bales of wool were auctioned off in front of alarge crowd of buyers, brokers and growers alike. The first bale weighed 171kg and tested 17.6 micron, 72 per cent yield, 109mm in length and 41n/kt in strength. This bale was bought by Lou Morsch from Modiano Australia Pty Ltdfor 5600c/ kg. Modianohavebeenstrongsupporters of the charity bales over the previous years. Thesecond bale to sell weighed 154kg and tested 18.3 micron, 73 per cent yield, 106mm in length and 37n/kt in strength. This was purchased by Mark Fayle from Endeavour Wool Exports for 4000c/kg. Endeavour have been great supporters of the Helimed charity, purchasing abaleinprevious years.

Throughoutthe day, growers wereaddress by various wool buyers and were given the chance to ask questions aboutthe futureofthe wool industry, whichisbright. These included Evan Croake, trading manager from Tec Wool Tradingwho gave insight into the current logistics of shipping wool and the current sentiment in China,Australia’s largest consumerofgreasywool. This wasfollowed up by adiscussion with Andrew Raeber from the newly-formed Italian buying division, Vitale Barberis Canonico (VBC), previously a part of New England Wool. Mr Raeber was able to share his knowledge of traditional, specialty Italian spinning wools which are used to produce high end suiting and apparel.

During lunch, the group were also addressed by CommercialWool Manager, Brodie Easton, who gave aliveupdate on the progress of Elders’ $25.5 million wool handling facility being built in Ravenhall and due to open on July 1. This new facilitywillinclude fully automated forklifts,bale shelving 12-bales high,and new state-of-the-art wool testing core lines able to operate 24 hours aday.This is aworld-firstinvestment in wool handling which will facilitate and streamline the marketing and sale of clients wool.

Along the way home, the group stopped at the HELMS 2helicopter base, where they were greeted by the Helimed team who gave atour through the helicopterand spoketothe group about the important work they do. The groupwere shown the upgraded blood transport boxes which the previous donations have gone towards. These blood transport boxes are half the weight, half the size and keep blood at thecorrecttemperature for twice

as long as the old boxes and cost almost$3000 each. By reducing the weightofthe aircraft and prolonging the lifespan of the blood, these upgradesmean the difference betweenhaving to land mid-flight to refuel or replenish supplies, saving precious time and quite literally saving lives. This was afantastic opportunity for the group to see first-hand what they have been working towards.

Stratford Lions Club President,Lindsay Ross, having witnessed the proceedings of the day, has announcedthat Stratford Lions Club will also be throwing their support behind thelocal air ambulance services by contributing afurther $2000 to the charity.

Mr Ross said the Helimed service provides vital mobile access to paramedic transport and care.

“Gippsland is areally large area; people can often need urgent medical attention when they are a long way from hospitals or road ambulances,so services like Helimed save lives. As aclub we see thisserviceasacritical servicefor our community and so we are really pleased we can make this contribution,” Mr Ross said.

The Stratford Lions Club presented their donationtoMadi Gallagher and Mal Nichollsfrom Elders, who will include the money in their recent fundraising efforts for the Helimed Service.

Elders District Wool Manager, Madi Gallagher said, “It’sfantastictoreceive thesupport of the Stratford Lions Club, it is such an import resource which impacts every community.

"We are very lucky to have the Helimed service, therefore it is great to be able to do our part to support it."

The Lions Club provide valuable support to manylocal initiatives.They work hard to support things thatare important to the community and raise money through things like regular Saturday barbecues and raffles.

“We are always looking for people to join us. We would encourage anyone who might be interested in contributing in our community to give us acall” Mr Ross said.

The Lions Club Stratford can be phoned on 0429 545 570.

The day was ahugesuccessand Elders Bairnsdale look forward to facilitating the donation in future.

If any wool growers are interested in supporting thisimportantcause, they are encouraged to enter afleeceinto the Omeo Show and enjoy aweekend in the Victoria high country. For more information on donating, call Elders Gippsland District Wool Manager, Madi Gallagher, on 0497 842 949.

Left to right: StratfordLions Club President LindsayRoss, Gippsland District Wool Managers Madi Gallagher and Mal Nicholls.

Photo: Contributed

Preparing Victorian farmsfor the challenges and opportunities ahead

VICTORIAN farmers will continue to have access to valuable skills training, after the extension of the Farm Business Resilience Program.

The program aims to support Victorian farm businesses by providing new and experienced farmers with theopportunity to increase their knowledge and skills to better plan for the future and adapt to achangingclimate.

Agriculture Victoria Project Leader, Kit DuncanJones,saidwhile Victorian farmers successfully manage uncertainty and complexity every day, the business of farming is becoming morechallenging as farmers face significant risks, such as future droughts, natural disasters and other industry challenges.

“The program supports farmers striving to bettermanage theirbusinessand strengthen their farm’s ability to withstand future shocks. If you’re afarmer who wants to put your plans on paper and commit your time to strengthen your knowledge and skills, this program will assist you to set up yourfarm for success, now and intothe future,”

Mr Duncan-Jones said.

The program is being delivered onlineand

face-to-face until June 2024. It includes short courses, workshops, webinars, field day sessions and farm walks to suit the varying needsofthe farming community.

The program has resources available to support decisionmaking such as the farm fitness checklist and the farm business plan template, which will allow farmers to conduct their own business assessments and planning.

Subscribetothe Farm Business Resilience Program Alert to keep up to date with the latest information on program courses, workshops, services and resources.

For more information, email Mr Duncan-Jones at kit.duncan-jones@agriculture.vic.gov.au

The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the federal government’s Future Drought Fund and the state government’sFuture Agriculture Skills Capacity Fund.

Further information aboutthe program and the Future Drought Fund can also be foundonthe Agriculture Victoria website at www.agriculture. vic.gov.au/FBRP

Grants open to improve crossings

THE federal government is fundingbetter ways to improvethe safety of level crossings in the regions. The Regional Australia LevelCrossingSafety Program (RALCSP) grants aim to foster research and alsoimprovethe data and risk assessment for the crossings. The government is already spending $160 million under the program from 2023–24 to 2026–27 for up to 80 per cent of the cost of delivering priority level crossing upgrades. The grantsmoney will support research to look at innovative options, and also studying driver behaviour at level crossings to better targetsafety changes,aswell as getting betterinformation and risk assessment. Applications are now open for the Level CrossingSafetyResearchand Innovation Project grant, which will support research and investigation of new technologies and approaches to improve level crossing safety. It will also back practical actions such as trials to bridge the gap from research to introduction of innovative technologies and approaches, paving the way for stakeholders to bettermanage regional level-crossing safety into the future. Atotal of $4.6 million in grant funding is being offered across two rounds with the first round closing on Thursday,

March 23, 2023. Other funding of $1.7 million is available to the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulatortoapplyfor grants to improve data and risk assessment of level crossings, enabling road and rail infrastructure managers to better target protections andprioritise crossingsfor upgrade. TheRALCSP is anew funding stream dedicated to level crossing safety, supplementing the existing Australian Governmentinvestmentinland transport infrastructure, including level crossings.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said that regional and rural communities have been campaigning for safety upgrades at level crossings.

“These grants deliver on our October 2022–23 Budgetcommitmenttoestablish the RALCSP, targeting safety at these crossings nationwide,” she said.“Istrongly encourageall stakeholders, including those from the industry, research bodies, and universities, to apply for the Research and Innovation Project grants. “Thanks to this grant opportunity,yourinnovative ideas and technology can help save lives into the future.” For more information on eligibility and how to apply, go to grants.gov.au

Get on top of stripe rust early

AGRICULTURE Victoria is encouraging farmers to takedecisiveaction to reduce the ‘green bridge’ and be proactive in the use of fungicide treatments at sowing to reduce early season rust.

Agriculture Victoria Researcher, Dr Hari Dadu, said large yield lossesduringthe 2022 season were reported by wheat growers in areas where stripe rust wasn’t well controlled.

“Rustoutbreaks tend to be more severein seasons followingwet summers when volunteer cereals, known as the ‘green bridge’, carry stripe rust across from one year to the next new wheat crop. A‘greenbridge’ of volunteer cereals will provide asignificant opportunity for rust to survive this summer to infect this year’s crops,” he said. “High soil waterlevelshavemadethis a widespread problemacrosseastern Australia.” Dr Dadu said rust only survives on living plants, which is why disease management is important

following wet summers. “Growers need to avoid susceptible cultivars and use up-front fungicides to significantly reduce the stripe rust risk in paddocks," he said. “Last yearshowedthe benefits of using fungicides at sowing to slow stripe rust development providing more time for extra foliar fungicide applications during the season.” Dr Dadu recommends the following management steps:

 Remove the green bridge of volunteer cereals either with herbicide or by grazing by mid-March

 Use acurrent cereal disease guide at go.vic. gov.au/3IYyj7J to check rust resistance ratings

 Develop afungicide management plan, with an emphasis on up-front options such as flutriafol on fertiliser

 Download the rust modelling tool StripeRustWM, an app from www.agric.wa.gov. au/apps/striperustwm

Growing concern

AN alarming number of young people are taking up vaping, according to aMonash University expert.

Vaping has become increasingly popularin recent years, with products also readily available.

Associate Professor Deana Leahy, from the School of Education, Culture and Society at Monash Education, saiditwas agrowing concern.

“The best solution is to limit the availability of e-cigarettes available to young people through the federal government introducingaban on the import of all vaping products,” she said.

“With respect to schools, they need to be adopting awhole school approach to address e-cigarette use.

“QUIT is currently developing anumberof resources to support schools to do this to respond to the issue. School health education provides us with akey platform by which to educate children and young people about e-cigarette use. Whilst healtheducation is clearly the place for students to learn about the risks of e-cigarettes, we actually need to adoptacross-curriculumapproach. This is especiallyimportant as health education is amarginalised subject in schools, especially in primary schools.

Concerns for children’s emotional instability andlackofstructure post COVID-19lockdowns persist

NEW research from Camp Australia reveals Australian children’s emotional wellbeing,screen time and lack of socialisation continue to be the highestconcern for parentsand school leadersin the aftermath of lockdowns, and as COVID-19 retreats in the rear-view mirror.

Launched in 2020,the Camp Australia Child Impact Survey, annually tracks the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and physical wellbeing of primary school-aged children across Australia.

Now in its thirdyear, the latest survey, conducted in December 2022, reveals almostone quarter (24 per cent) of parents reported their child’semotional patternsworsened in 2022, with children more easily overwhelmed and more sensitive, despite the end of lockdowns.

seeing these issues impact very young children.

“When children have too much unproductive screentimeoravoid making new friends, they can be at increased risk of mental ill-health including experiencing social difficulties, poor academic results, and evendeveloping physicalhealth concerns.“While we can’t entirelyavoid the use of screens in our work and study lives, we need to be aware children are growing up with new ways of working where technology is universal.

“This is allthe more reasontodevelop ahealthy relationship with technology and socialising offline as early as possibletocounteract these impactsand become more resilient in the long term.”

“Health education is already overburdened, and the reality is if teachers have to include a focus on e-cigarettes, it might mean that other important areas receive less attention -orno attention at all.

“As asubject, health education should ideally be connected with other curriculum areas such as Science, English, Media and Humanities to help students fully understand e-cigarettes and the harms associated with them.

“We also need to be looking at other curriculum areas, especially if aschool has limited or no health education.

“Parents and teachers also require support. QUIT and VicHealth are currently working on aresource hub to support parents and teachers to discuss vaping with their teens.

“Here at Monash, we are working to embed the topic in our teacher education programs. Amongst other initiatives we need to be offering more support and funding to schools and teachers to be able to deliver quality health education.”

It is illegal to use an e-cigarettecontaining nicotine in Victoria.

This was supported by 62 per cent of school leaders. Atotal of 42 per cent of parents reported too much unproductive screen time as one of their main concerns for children,with onethirdofparents reporting unproductivescreentimehas worsened over the past 12 months.

When asked aboutareas schoolleaders wouldlike to learn more, online safety was the most popular topic (63 per cent). Just over one third of families also share this interest and concern highlighting that more understanding and education is needed in this critical area.

Against this backdrop, Camp Australia welcomed the new Online Safety Bill and the government’s initiative via the eSafety commissioner to launch its eSafety Early Years Program and eSafe Kids Program for children and parents.

Children having friends and socialising was another top concern for parents (36 per cent) and school leaders (26 per cent).

Dr Justin Coulson,one of Australia’s most trusted parenting author and expert,saidthe research highlights the importance of supporting children’s resiliencesothey can deal with challenging times.

“Despite the survey being conducted in December, well after the end of lockdowns in Australia, the resultssuggest there may be lingering negative effects of the pandemic on children,” he said.

“Mostofthese concerns relate to children in Foundation/Prep and Grades 1and 2, so we’re

CampAustraliachief executive, Warren Jacobson,saidthe research continues to play an important role in helping families and educators understand and address critical aspects of children’s long-term development.

“It’s no coincidence asense of disconnection and isolation continues to impact our children,and this research helps illustrateexactly what parents and school leaders are wanting to address going into the 2023 school year,” he said.

“We know socialisation skills are critical for all aspectsofachild’s growth, but these insights reveal excessive time in front of screens continues, and children are more erratic and feel less connected despite the end of lockdowns.

“Whilst concern was expressedregarding unproductivescreen time, the surveyoutcomes also raise the issue of e-safety and the influence of social media on children, and whether they are educated to deal with this.

“Providing opportunities for social interaction outside the structure of learning in the classroom is one of the ways we can help address these concerns.

“Activities before and after the school day where children can socialise across age and cultural boundaries and pursue other interests actively such as sport, cooking, drama, arts and crafts in astructured environment, all play acriticalrole in providing asenseofnormalcy,promoting social development and an alternative to screen time.”

More and more young people are taking up vaping.

Photo: Contributed

HORSES WANTED

FOOTY /NETBALL

The Nambrok

HORSES WANTED

FOR SALE BY TENDER

Wellington Shire Council has impounded one (1) sheep from Bay Road, Lower Heart, Sale on Tuesday 31 January 2023. The sheep has no ID marks. If not claimed within 7days of this advertisement the sheep will be offered for tender. Tenders must be written and as well as the tendered price show all the tenderer's contact details and PIC number and placed in the Tender Box at the Wellington Shire Council offices, 18 Desailly St, Sale by 12 noon Friday 17 February 2023. For enquiries please contact our Local Laws Departmenton 1300 366 244.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

February 21, 2023 |2PM Lecture Hall, Community Services Building, Palmerston Street, Sale.

After being postponed due to the 2022 Victorian state election, the Central Gippsland Health Service Board of Directors cordially invites you to attend our 2021-22 Annual General Meeting. Afternoon tea will be served in the conference room at the conclusion of the meeting.

RSVP COB Friday, February 17 Manager Executive Services: rebecca.gunning@cghs.com.au |5 1438319

Gelliondale

(Casual Vacancies)

KARATE'S BACK!

For self defence and fitness. Call now to book your free intro, Mark Johnson 0431 950 738; http://www.mjsma.com.au

ON THE BUSES

Mulwala, 21 -24April 2023. Country music festival. Buf fet br eakfa st. Proceeds to the Royal Children's Hospital. Ph Kim 0408 388 672 by Feb 24.

PRODUCERS

LR2 or MR2 licence would be advantageous but not mandatory. All successful applicants will be required to participate in an induction course and pass adrug and alcohol test. For application forms and position descriptions please email: nurserysales@hvp.com.au

Enquires can be made on (03) 5184 0000 HVP Plantations Pty Ltd is arenewable resource based organisation and an Equal Opportunity Employer.

MAFFRA

Sat. Feb 18.

8:30am -12:30pm

267 Boisdale-Stratford Rd, Maffra. No earlybirds.

MAFFRA

Saturday Feb 18. 8:30am.

30 Henry St. Furniture items, fridge, beds, desk, filing cabinet, Tupperware and bric abrac.

Preliminary Notice

We are acommercial salad company looking for Harvest Team Leader to join our fast paced team located in Boisdale.

Position will be full time and duties will include, but will not be limited to:

● Coordinate the harvesting team.

● Assist with cutting and loading of produce into cartons and bins.

● Leading and supervising ateam harvesting produce whether manually or mechanically.

● Staff training, harvesting, weeding, planting.

● Responsible for quality control of produce and all related procedures.

● Loading of cartons of produce onto pallets.

● Tracking and reporting on all field and variety assessments to the executive team and make recommendations based on the assessment results.

● Providing harvest volume estimates to Harvesting Coordinator.

● Folding ofboxes and making them available to the harvesters so that the harvesting can be carried out efficiently.

● Cutting and packing of produce.

● Coordinate and motivate harvesting teams to achieve targets.

Requirements

● Understanding of Quality Produce and how to achieve it.

● Relevant qualifications and/or farming experience. Please email all resumes through to hr@tripodfarmers.com.au

Clearing Sale

Acc G&KMcEntee

Saturday Feb 18, 10am 789 Sisters Rd. Gormandale.

Items Include: Ferguson 35 (grey &gold) diesel, 3.6mtr Savage Snipe boat new 8hp Mercury motor, Kawasaki KL 250 motorbike, fire fighting trailer &1000ltr tank, 2007 Ford ute body with aluminium tray, 6 cylinder, 4.0ltr motor, horse drawn jinker -good condition, new Davey 5.5hp fire pump, Honda generator 7.5KVA, old chaff cutter, old Sunbeam single stand shearing plant, IH post hole digger, tractor belt pulleys, old electric motors, cast iron water pump, assorted poly pipe, gal pipe, PVC pipe 50-90 &100ml, poly pipe fittings, plumbing &electrical fittings, cast iron veranda frieze, 1,200 new wire cut bricks, 1,000 old red bricks, cast iron bath &feet, 2fireplace mantles, large qnty building materials incl. pine &HDtimber, doors, windows, s.steel sinks, laundry troughs, cast iron hand basins, toilet seats.

Collectibles include: Timber cheese churn, butter churn, buggy & jinker metal pieces, jinker harness, bridles & saddles, old tilly lantern, small bellows, Kingston English China set, peerless jug &washbasin &huge selection of sundries.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Latrobe Regional Hospital

Are you seeking acareer in healthcare? LRH has arange of opportunities available for individuals who like to make adifference and care for our community. ●

AUSSIE

For all classifieds please email classifieds@gippslandtimes.com.au

-Bairnsdale

● Eating Disorders NursePractitioner

For further information, including how to apply positions descriptions and application closing dates please visit our website https://lrh.mercury.com.au/

Successful applicants will be required to obtain asatisfactory national police check and working with children check.

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

● Learning Assistant

● Events Co-ordinator

● Administrativeand Co-Curricular Assistant

● Casual Early Learning Centre Co-Educator

● 2023 Long Service Leave cover fixed-term contracts in following areas:

● Primary Teaching (Classroom, Japanese, Art)

● Secondary Teaching (Health and Human Development, Mathematics, Wood Technology, Science, Learning Support, Visual Communication and Design, Art)

● Instrumental Music Teachers (brass and woodwind)

For more detail on closing dates, the requirements, duties and responsibilities of these roles, visit the employment page of the Gippsland Grammar website at http:/careers.gippslandgs.vic.edu.au

Fitter and Turner/ Valve Technician

Measurement Plus is actively seeking aFitter and Turner/Valve Technician to join their successful service team based in Wurruk. The position will be workshop based, with the potential to work at various site locations and offshore upon completion of aprobationary period and all necessary training requirements.

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

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

Please send aCVand cover letter to service@measurement-plus.com.au

For

Sales Assistant /Mobile Phone Technician

Vcases mobile phone repair Sale is afamily business founded in 2012. We currently looking for asales assistant/ mobile phone repair technician who possesses:

● Genuine passion for mobile phone and tech.

● Flexibility to work on weekends.

● Ahard working and motivated attitude.

● Passion for an excellent customer experience.

● Ability to learn quickly and think on your feet. Full training and development provided. Opportunity to become store manager in future. Above award rates. Email info@vcasesmobile.com.au

Education Support Staff

Sale & District Specialist School is currently seeking interest from casual and part time Education Support (ES) staff to fulfil a number of roles within the school. 3part time ES positions are currently advertised.

Expressions of interest in completing casual replacement positions are also available. Please contact reception at the school for further information. 5144 5644

VR GP REQUIRED

Fulltime/Partime positions available in asmall family clinic located in Maffra. Modern facilities with afull-time practice nurse.

For information regarding the position please call 03 51411889 or email manager@johnsonstclinic.com.au

Valentine's Greetings •

Josie Cara Mia, you arethe only cactusinthe garden of my life. Happyheart day. Love from your g goofy y Gomez gal

DAWS, Lyn. Much loved niece of Betty and Darby (dec.) and family. So dearly loved, never forgotten.

de Cann, Vivien. (82), late of Brunswick West. Passed away on 09/02/2023 at Colton Close, Glenroy. Partner of Bery (dec.), sister of Denis, (dec.), sister-in-law of Susan, aunt of Teresa, Micahla, Damien and Michael. Peace at last.

There will be no funeral at this time.

HUG (nee James), Pauline Joyce. Passed away peacefully at Sale Gardens Aged Care on February 8, 2023. Aged 77 years. Dearly loved wife of Bill. Loved mother of Donna and Neil, Coral, Scott and Karen. Loved Nana of Ella and Ryan, Bryony and Rob. Great Nana of Logan and Danika. Forever In Our Hearts

Valentine's Greetings

Happy Valentine’s Day

Cars •

CAMPER TRAILER

Off road, 2019 Lumberjack Buckley, brand new, never been used. Full annex and 12 months rego. included. Many extras also, $21,000. Phone 0428 454 414.

Deaths

FORD ute 2008, 1tonner, auto, cruise, air cond., LPG, receipts, tool boxes, needs reg'n, Vin. JGCM8A63253 $6600 o.n.o. 0412 325 723.

LANDCRUISER 2006

HDJ-79-RV.155,000km. Reg till 26-10-23, ULS 559. Full service record. M.F.I. Canopy specialised fit-out. 3.5 ton towing and camping vehicle. One owner. R.W.C. Ex. cond. $80,000. Ph 0416 261 513.

EVERNEW, 16ft pop-top. 2002, double bed, full annexe, cover, porta potty, TV, bike rack, very clean and neat. $16,500. Phone 0438 592 129

Royal Flair Pop Top

2003, single beds, full annexe, TV, m/wave, etc. always garaged $17,000. Ph 0413 300 655.

HUG, Pauline. Loved wife of Willy/Bill. Loved and cherised Mum of Donna and Neil, Coral and family, Scott and Karen. Loved Nan of Ella and Ryan, Bryony and Robbie and great grandmother to Danika and Logan. Forever in our hearts, loved and always remembered by your family. May you rest in peace.

HUG (nee James), Pauline Joyce. 1/3/1945 -8/2/2023. Eldest daughter of Joyce and Colin (both dec.).Loved sisterof Bruce, Kaye (Gallagher), Rodney and families. Forever in our hearts

HUG (nee James), Pauline Joyce. 1/3/1945 -8/3/2023. Loved sister of Kaye and sister-in-law of Martin. Aunty to Ashley and Jayde, Nicholas and Nicole. Resting peacefully Gone but never forgotten

MAZDA BT-50

NISSAN Patrol GU 1999, 2.8 turbo, recon. injector pump, new glow plugs, great towing, b/bar, snorkel, CB, dash and reverse cameras, PNA-966 $11,500 o.n.o. 0427 740 727.

TOYOTA Fortuner GXL, 2016, solar panel, roof-rack, duel battery, fridge/drawer system, exc. cond., r.w.c. 147,000kms, 1IT-3AJ. $46,000. 0409 436 578.

COBAIN, Sue. Sale and Distric t Specialist School would like to acknowledge the passing of former teacher Sue Cobain. Sue was adedicated and professional teacher that supported and improved many studentslives during her 40 plus years of service to the Sale community. Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with her family, friends and former colleagues at this sad time.

DAWS, Lynette Violet. 'Lyn'

Passed away peacefully after along illness, surrounded by her loving family at Cabrini Hospital on February 6, 2023, aged 75. Beloved daughter of Harry and Vi (both dec.) and sister of Raymer, Laureen and Colleen; devoted wife of David (dec.); loving mother of Nicole, Karen and David and adored Nana of April and Shannon.

Your light and love will always shine brightly. Forever in our hearts.

DAWS, Lynette Violet. 'Lyn'

10/6/1947 -6/2/2023

Now at rest after along and incredibly brave battle. Sleep well dear sister in the arms of your soulmate David.

Forever in our hearts. Laureen, David, Rod, Lee and families.

HUG, Pauline. 1/03/1945 to 8/02/2023. Sister-in-law of Gwen. Auntie of Jo, Jason, Adelle and Bevan; Ness and Henry and Brad. "Sleep in peace"

LANIGAN, Brian Thomas. Passed away peacefully at Ballarat, after ashort illness, on Friday, February 10, 2023.

Aged 80 years. Loving husband to Alison. Loved eldest son of Tom and Cath Lanigan (both dec.). Much loved brother and brother-in-law of Elizabeth and Richard Humphrey, Maureen Seymour, Helen, Kevin and Debbie, Gerald and Sue, and John (dec.). Wonderful caring uncle to all his nephews and nieces, their partners and families.

Forever in our hearts

LITTLE, Donald Alfred. 21/06/1931 -9/02/2023

Aged 91 of Sale Gardens

Loved husband of Liz (dec.). Father to Malcolm (dec.), Kaye and John, Ken and Phyllis, Graeme and Astrid.

Grandfather to Amy and Ben, Kate and Michael, Emma and Brian, William and Melissa, Tom and Eddie. Great grandfather to Hayley, Harry, Ellie, Ruby and Sophie. Brother to Jean, William, Nancy (dec.), Greg and Josie.

At peace again with Liz, he will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Deaths • Deaths • Deaths • Deaths • In Memoriam • Funerals • Funerals •

LITTLE, Don.

Loving husband of Elizabeth (dec.), loved son-in-law of Robert and May Linaker.

Brother-in-law to Avis and Don Weir, Leonard and Greta Linaker, Ruby and Bob Black (all dec.)

Loved by Buck and Kay Linaker.

Much loved by all his nieces and nephews.

Deepest sympathy to Kay, John, Ken, Phyllis, Graeme and Astrid and families.

LITTLE,Don.

Loved brother-in-law of Buck and Kay.

Much loved uncle to Clint and Jan, David and Deborah, Jane, Tegan, Stephen, Maddy, Annie, Chris, Billy, Maigan, and Ned.

Life is not measured by the years you live, but the love you gave and the things you did. United with Lizzy (Tots).

LUBKE, Garry Royston. Has tragically passed away suddenly on Saturday February 4, 2023.

Loving father, known to many as agreat man who wouldhelpanyone, anytime. Most knew he was coming before they could see him. Much loved Dad of six children Gail, Cheryl, Garry, Tony, Taylah, and Ramon, who will all miss him dearly though forever kept within our hearts and speak of him with the memories we have.♥

xoxoxo LOVE YOU DAD

xoxoxo

Until we meet again xo

LUBKE, Garry Royston. Passed away suddenly at the Rosedale Caravan Park on February 4, 2023.

Aged 69 years.

Loved son of Henry Alexander and Florence Audrey (both dec.). Much loved brother of Ross, James, Marie, and Ken (all dec.).

Loved brother and brother-in-law of Cheryl and David, Andrina and Alan. Amuchloved father and grandfather. Rest in Peace

LUBKE, Garry Royston. 4/11/1953 -4/2/2023

Passed away suddenly. We will miss you very much, mate, Poppy Garry. Love Rhonda, Tony Mark, Brooklyn and Mia. Say hello to Paul for us.

MIZZI, Gabrielle Lynette. 03/02/1980 -22/01/2023

Beloved daughter of Joe and Lyn. Mother to Avalon.

Sister of Melissa and Eloyse. Auntie of Darcy and Madison.

Sister-in-law to Glenn and

Justin.

PRICE, Colin Noel. 22/3/1958 -6/2/2023

Passed away peacefully at home.

Beloved husband of Felicity, adored father of Sally and Kimberley, father-in-law to Josh, mate of Austin and devoted Pa Pa to Rory.

Always in our hearts

PRICE, Colin. The Gippsland Grammar community acknowledges the passing of our former Business Manager Colin Price. Colin was an integral part of the Leadership Team from 2000 -2011.

Sincere condolences to Felicity,Sally and Kimberley.

SULLIVAN, Corey. Robbed of his life at just 36. We met you at your worst. We knew you at your best.

SULLIVAN, Corey.

Taken too soon on Feb. 5, 2023 aged 36 years.

Dearly loved son of Robyn and Brett, husband of Ash, father of Tyler, Isaac, Indianna, Dakota and Oakland, brother to Ness, uncle to Montana, Angus and Georgia, son-in-law, brother and uncle to Col, Kel and family.

QUENNELL, Marlene. Maffra Ladies Probus Club acknowledges with great sadness the passing of our loved member Marlene Quennell. She will be much missed. Our sincere condolences are extended to her daughter Michelle and all Marlene'sfamily and friends at this sad time.

SULLIVAN, Corey James Edward. 28/02/1986 -05/02/2023

Coz, you filled our hearts from the moment you were born. You were our brave little boy while in hospital, and you grew into aman who overcame so much. No words can describe how proud we are of you. We watched you grow up, start your business and look after your beautiful family.

From your first steps to your last breath we were there. Our hearts are broken thinking about a life without you.

RIDGEWAY, Kevin William. After ashort illness on Feb. 7, 2023 aged 76 years.

Dearly loved husband of Margaret, loving father and father-in-law of Grant and Angie, Kathryn (dec.), Cameron and Frances, grandfather of Gabby, Chloe, Casey, Tayla, Chelsea and William, Camaro, Anthony, Michael and Jackson, greatgrandfather to Saylah-Rose, brother of Lynette.

RIDGEWAY, Kevin. 03/09/1946. Dad, father-in-law, Grandadand Great Grandad. If our love could have saved you -you never would have passed. The things we feel so deeply are the hardest things to say, You will always be remembered, In averyspecial way. Rest in peace until we meet again. Grant, Angie and family.

RIDGEWAY, Kevin. Kevin my love, after buildingour beautiful family, we set about on some wonderful trips and adventures, creating some lovely friendships along the way. Will miss our companionship and cherish the memories evermore.

Until we meet again, your loving wife Margaret.

RIDGEWAY, Kevin.

Dearly loved and cherished brother of Lynette, brother-in-law to John (dec.).

Loved Uncle of Paul and Scott and friend to Sue and Alison.

My thoughts, my heart, my love are with you. Bye Bro, love Sis.

RIDGEWAY, Kevin. Grandad, words can never sum up how much I already miss you, the love Ihave for you and how much Iadore you. You put the "Grand" in Grandad, and even when you may have gotten our names mixed up, we all know how much you loved each and every one of your grandchildren.

Look after Mum for me and until Isee you again, Goodnight for now;. Love always and forever Camaro (aka Skoozi)

SULLIVAN, Corey. Much loved grandson of Pauline and George (dec.) Driscoll. Nephew of Danny (dec.). When family chains are broken, Nothing is the same, But as God takes us one by one, He links the chain again. Love you Coz. Til we meet again. Love Nan.

Our hearts are broken. We will miss our chats and your smiling face, so many great family memories and how you made us laugh. Rest in peace Coz. We love you. Rob, Rhonda,Paul, Kirsty, Julie and families.

SULLIVAN, Corey. Senselessly taken too soon.

DAWS. Acelebration of the life of Mrs Lynette Violet Daws (Lyn) will be held at St Paul's Cathedral, 147 Cunninghame Street Sale at 1.30pm on FRIDAY (February 17, 2023) followed by burial at Sale Lawn Cemetery.

For those unable to attend, a"Youtube" broadcast of the service will take place -please check our website for details.

Donations to WomenCan, in the name of Lyn Daws, to fund gynaecological cancer research will be gratefully accepted in lieu of flowers: Phone: 1300 786 300 or via www.womencan.org.au

HUG (nee James).

Amemorial service to celebrate the life of Mrs Pauline Joyce Hug will be held at St John's Anglican Church, cnr Church and Thomson St's Maffra TOMORROW (Wednesday February 15, 2023) commencing at 2pm.

Aprivate cremation will precede this service.

QUENNELL, Marlene. Of Maffra. Agathering to celebrate the life of Mrs Marlene Quennell will be held at Duart Homestead, 20 McLean St., Maffra (NEXT TUESDAY) February 21, 2023 commencing at 1pm.

As this is acelebration of Marlene's love of life, wearing something colourful in her memory is encouraged.

Please bring along memories to share.

Aprivate cremation will precede this service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider adonation to Cancer Council Victoria www.cancervic.org.au /fundraise/in-memory/mar lene-quennell.html

Envelopes will also be available on the day.

McKAY, Robert Charles. 5/9/36 -10/2/22

Ayear has passed but it only seems like yesterday....

As we plough through your collections of plenty....

Your presence is all around us. Holding onto memories and dealing with your loss. Love Janette, Mike, James, Jess and Sam.

WHELAN, Valerie. 15/2/15

You are always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. Miss you so much. Love Gav, Peter, Wendy, Mitch and families.

Bereavement Thanks •

BLACKWOOD, Victor (Vic).

Tyler, Isaac, Indy, Dakota and Oakland will always keep our hearts full, but it won't be the same without. We will take care of Ash and your family. We'll miss your hugs, your smile, laugh and your way of giving life to aroom.

Love you to the moon and back.

Mum and Dad

My baby brother, my wingman, the best uncle in the world. Our larrikin who lit up aroomwith his infectious humour.

Ihave no words, our hearts are broken. You always had my back.

Through the good, the bad and the ugly Iknew I could rely on you.

Whether it was the 2-stroke or the 4-legged horsepower variety, you were always there.

Encouraging the kids and I, supporting us in anyway you could.

Idon't know what Iwill do without you, my wingman. You had the biggest heart and when it stopped beating, mine broke.

Ilove you Bud and you will always be with us. I couldn't be more proud of the man you became and how you cared and loved for your family and friends.

Sweet invite Finch!

Love you to the moon and back.

Ness, Monny-Rose, Sauce head and Turtle.

Inever would have picked you as being my brother from another mother. And who'd have thought you would turn out be such an important part of ours and dad's life. We only had you in our lives for 10 years. But you filled those years with so much love.

From how you cared for Caryl to everything you did for Iain. And no, I'm not sorry we left you out sometimes. Ialways knew you'd say 'Sweet invite' and we'd see you the next time we all did something. Our hearts are broken. There'll always be atoast to Corey whenever we all meet. We will keep our modern family together for Ash and the kids.

Love pop pop, John, Eddie, and James, Lucie, Matilda, Flora.

Nephew of Steven and Caz. Cousin of Matt and Jess ,R ya na nd Victoria, Lachie and Abbey and families. Fond memories, agood guy and an adoring family man with abig heart.

Sincere condolences and love to Robyn, Brett, Ness and kids.

Sympathies and thoughts are with his loved family, Ash and kids. Rest in peace mate, forever young.

SULLIVAN, Corey. Another link in the family chain is broken. Much love to Ash and family. We'll miss you at sippers. Love Sally and family.

SULLIVAN, Corey. Loved husband of our granddaughter Ashlea and father to our five great grandchildren. In loving memory. Doug, Bev and Jason Brack.

LITTLE. Agraveside service for Mr Donald Alfred Little will be held at the Maffra Lawn Cemetery on FRIDAY (February 17, 2023) commencing at 2pm.

RIDGEWAY.

The funeral service for Mr Kevin William Ridgeway will be held in our Geoff Rossetti Memorial Chapel, 1390 Maffra Road Sale (next to Sale Cemetery) on THURSDAY (February 16, 2023) commencing at 1pm.

Hawaiian shirts welcome.

Aprivate cremation will follow. For those unable to attend, a"Youtube" broadcast of the service will take place -details on our website.

There just aren't enough words to express the heartfelt thanks to family and friends for their sympathy, love, care and support shown following our beloved Vic's passing.

Avery special thanks to Bradley Lett and his team for their care, compassion and guidance. Your professionalism was outstanding and you followed Vic's wishes to the end.

Special thanks to Dr MaryAnn Anderson and colleagues at Peter McCallum Cancer Centre, Dr Yousaf Ahmad, Dr Deepthi Mudunna, and palliative care for their ongoing support through all these years of Vic's illness.

LUBKE. Agraveside service for Mr Garry Royston Lubke will be held at the Stratford Lawn Cemetery at 11am on FRIDAY (February 17, 2023).

SULLIVAN. The funeral service for Mr Corey Sullivan will be held in our Geoff Rossetti Memorial Chapel, 1390 Maffra Road Sale (next to Sale Cemetery) on THURSDAY (February 16, 2023) commencing at 11am. Aprivate cremation will follow. For those unable to attend, a"Youtube" broadcast of the service will take place -see website below for details.

Abig thank you to our loved family and friends that were with Vic, keeping him comfortable 'til the end. Maree and family.

Funeral

Directors

WRIGHT (nee Kerr), Marjorie Joan. Loved daughter of Reg and Elsie (both dec.).

Loved sister of Dorothy and Brian (dec.), Geoff and Valma, John and Marilyn and their families. Memories are ours to keep

WRIGHT, Marjorie Joan (Marjie).

Dearly loved sister of Dos and Brian (dec.) Egan.

Loved aunty of Rob and Karen and their families.

"The Music Goes On"

PRICE.

The funeral service for Colin Price will be held at Christ Church Anglican Church, 500 High Street, Echuca on WEDNESDAY (February 15, 2023) at 12pm.

Aprivate cremation will follow.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Echuca Regional Health, Cancer and Wellness Centre, envelopes will be available at the church.

This service will be web ca st live at www.tobinbrothers.com.au

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

please call: 5143 9333

Goannasset the tone in victory

THE breeze was cool and there was abit of light drizzle as Gippsland GoannasOver 60swelcomed CountryVictoria to the Traralgon Recreation Reserve on Sunday.

Victoria Country had many unavailable due to injury, but were able to bring eight playersfor the game.

Goannas stand-in captain, Ray Floyd, won the toss and decided to bat, opening the innings with Rob Taylor.

Taylor seemed to get most of the strike and quickly retired for 21 from his 30 balls.

Ian Gibsoncame in and was almost immediately caught behind for aduck!

Thescore was 1/31 in the ninth over, then Floyd retiredfor 17 after another couple of overs.

Last week’s debutants, Chris de Vent and Mark Browncame together, with de Vent facing 15 balls for four runs, departing via LBW from the last ball of John Thomas’ spell. The score read 2/49.

Goannas pair Gordon Cowling and Dick Noble had volunteered to play for Vic Country,and they were both bowling at Brown and Bernie Symons as the score reached 59 at the 20-over drinks break.

The ground was in magnificent condition, but the pitch was keeping alittle low and astronger wind made bowling and batting more difficult.

Brown and Symons retired for 14 and 10 respectively, then Neil Meredith skied adelivery from Noble’s bowling, while Rob Bacchetti was dismissed lbw by Cowling,asthe score reached 4/84 after 27 overs.

Noble hadfive overs and took 1/20, and Cowling bowled eight oversfor figures of 1/10.

Jim Armstrong made eight runs before being bowled by Trevor Sing.

Derek Morris andAndrewSmith batted well together, and retired for16and 26 respectively.

Barrie Nunn was five not outand Rob Taylor (21 not out) returned during the last over as the Goannas completed theirinnings at 5/140 from their 40 overs.

With COVID restrictions eased, the home team supplied afternoontea,aswas the case (seemingly) many years ago!

Symons and Bacchetti opened the bowling for the Goannas,and bowled very well,restricting the scoring to one run an over for the first nine overs.

Bacchettibroke through early, and Taylor and Gibson combined to run out the other opening batsman, to see the score 2/22 after 12 overs.

Garry Rose and Bob Duljas hadalso volunteered to play with Vic Country, with Rose batting at number fourand managing four runs beforebeing caught from Bacchetti’s bowling.

His very good spell earned him 2/20from his eight overs.

Mark Brownhad replaced Symons, and Meredith

replaced Bacchetti, as Vic Country reached 3/52 at the drinks break.

Duljas batted sensibly and retired for awell-made 15 ,asMeredith took wicketsinhis first and second overs after drinks.

He was then on ahat-trick in his seventh over, Dick Noble being his final wicket,and finished with figures of 4/27 from his eight overs.

AndrewSmithhad replaced Brown, and again bowled well, taking two wickets.

Taylor bowled two overs, de Vent had an over, andCowling scored 15 not out.

Symons took the last wicket,tohave Vic Country

all out in the 39th over for 124.

Symons finished with figures of 1/9from6.4 overs and Smith’s figures were 2/17 from five.

AllMeredith’s andSmith’s victims were bowled.

The proposed double-header, with the Over 70s playing on Monday could not go ahead as Vic Country could not field ateam.

The gamesthis weekendare againadoubleheader at Geelong, with the Over 60s playing on Sunday, and the Over 70s playing on Monday. Practice will continueatGlengarry on Wednesday from 4.45pm.

Walking netball comp trialled

Action from West Sale Bowls Club Classic Fours.

Bowls teams descend on West Sale

WEST Sale Bowls Club Classic Fours tournament was held last week on the club’s Wurruk greens.

Teams from Bega, Tathra, Merimbula, Yass, Canberra and Melbourne made the journey to Gippsland for the annual event, as well as representatives from clubs in Paynesville, Morwell and Mirboo North.

Steve Douglas, Royce McKay, Damien Cooke (all from the Merimbula Dolphins team) and Nick Wilson(West Sale) were winners of this year’s competition.

The three-day tournament is an annual fixture on West Sale’s calendar, with 2023’s event taking place from Wednesday, February 8toFriday, February 10.

Atrial of thewalkingnetballcompetition washeld in December

SALE Netball Association is introducing anew iteration of the much-loved sport to the region: walking netball.

Associationpresident, Pam Sellings, says that walking netball is exactlythe same as regular netball, except for one rule: players are forbidden from running and jumping.

“But pretty much every other rule is the same, and it just means that people who may not physicallybeabletoplay can get back on-court,” Sellings said.

According to Sellings,the push to introduce walking netball was led by the association’s life members.

“I love the idea of justgetting thoseladies back on the court and letting themparticipate in agame,” Sellings added

Trial sessions for walking netball were hosted by the association in December, which had a“very successful” turnout -just shy of 30 people attended the first session.

The activity is beingbilledasa not-for-profit community event, with women and men being encouraged to participate.

“There’snolimitationonwho can play;everyone just has to stick by those same rules of no running and no jumping,” Sellings said.

Winners of the classic fours competition, Steve Douglas, Royce McKay,DamienCooke (all from Merimbula) and Nick Wilson (West Sale).

The firstwalking netballsession will be held tomorrow at the GippslandRegional Sports Complex, Cobains Road from 1.30pm, proceeded by an afternoon tea.

For more information, visitthe official Sale Netball Association page on Facebook or send an email to salenetball@gmail.com

Photos: Contributed

Photo:Contributed

Photo: TomParry

Goannasactingcaptain,Ray Floyd, from Sale, cuts.

Photo: Contributed

GiffardWest’s Lisa Harrisoniseagerly awaiting the walking netball competition.

Action from around the courts

WELLINGTON GIPPSLAND TENNIS ASSOCIATION

SATURDAY,FEBRUARY 11

SENIORS -ROUND12

Section1: Maffra GRE 2drewwith Sale Findex2, Maffra WRE 4def Bairnsdale 0, Sale JERE -bye.

Ladder: Maffra GRE (109 points), Sale Findex(85), Sale JERE (82), Bairnsdale (69), Maffra WRE (57).

Section2: Maffra ARL 6def Stratford3,MaffraCSC

6def Sale GL 3, Heyfield 5def Sale CS 4, Longford

9def Maffra Vets 0, Sale Dahlsens -bye.

Section3:MaffraStobies3defbySaleKFC6,Briagolong

6def Stratford2,Heyfield 9def Maffra Removalists

0, Maffra AA vMaffra WM (no scoresupplied).

JUNIORS -ROUND11

Section 1: Longford1def by LongfordSale

Tomljanovic 7, Sale Kyrgios vSale de Minaur (no scoresupplied), Maffra vBairnsdale Cash (no score supplied).

Section 2: Sale Saville 5def Briagolong 3, Sale Duckworth 5def Sale Inglis 3, Maffra vBairnsdale Cawley(no scoresupplied).

Section 3: StratfordSwans 6def BairnsdaleRafter

2, Sale Hon 7def Sale Kokkinakis 1, Longford4 drew with Maffra 4, Heyfield3def by SalePopyrin 5.

Section 4: SaleFourlis 2def by Sale Kubler 6, Maffra

Eagles 4def StratfordMagpies 2, Sale Sharma 6 def Bairnsdale Laver 2, MaffraFalcons vBairnsdale Barty (no scoresupplied).

Section 5: SaleThompson 0def by Sale Cabrera

6, StratfordKookaburras 3drewwith Maffra 3, Sale

Millman 4def Longford2,Sale Gadecki vBairnsdale Stosur (no scoresupplied).

Section 6: SaleVukic 3drewwith Sale Rodionova

3, StratfordKingfishers2def by Heyfield4,Stratford

Cockatoos 4def Maffra 2, Briagolong5def

Bairnsdale Hewitt 1.

Section 7: Bairnsdale Alcott 5def StratfordGalahs

0, Sale Mendez 6def Maffra 0, Heyfield -bye.

Heyfield’s Cayla Silvester playsaforehand drive

Photos:Robin Lowe

Sale Duckworth’s RileyEgan makes perfect contactwith aforehand

Sale Gadecki’sRory McMillan takes an overheadsmash

Sale CS’ NokPatefollowsthrough perfectly on awide backhand.

Sale Duckworth’s JamiePatestretches wide for aforehand.

Sale Inglis’ Judah Levchenko cracks afirstserve.

Sale CS’ Steve Farleyplays astrong forehand. Sale Inglis’ Sam Crouch hasboth feet in the air as he flushes aforehand drive. Heyfield’s Ryan Dowsettshapes for abackhand slice.

Sale Gadecki’s ZacIngram stretches high for aforehand.

Get hooked into hockey tomorrow

SALE Hockey Club got their year underway by spending the past week visiting local primary schools as part of Hockey Victoria’s Roadshow, introducing over 15,000 children to hockey.

Tomorrow, (Wednesday, February 15) from 4.15pm until 5pm, Sale Hockey Club will be holding afree come-and-try for their award winning ‘Hookin2Hockey’ program.

‘Hookin2Hockey’ is suited to primary school aged children, and will be held at the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex on Cobains Rd, Sale.

The program introduces participants to the fundamentals of hockey through fun activities and games.

It will run for eight weeks, with all equipment provided.

At the end of the program, participants have the option to continue on with one of the junior teams, or participate in asocial competition, Stick2Hockey.

On the following Wednesday (February 22), the club will hold a come-and-try and registration night from 5.30pm to 7pm for the upcoming East Gippsland Hockey Association season.

Teams will be fielded in age groups ranging across Under 11s, U13s, U15s, U18s, Women and Open Age.

It is an exciting year for hockey in the region, with the second synthetic field nearing completion in Bairnsdale.

For further information, phone the club on 0438 423 432 or email at salehockeyclub@hotmail.com

Playballatthe Sale Rangers this season

SALE Rangers are scoping for more members in the lead-up to the 2023 season.

The club,which participatesinthe Latrobe Valley Baseball League, is “excited” to offer multiple programs for players of all ages and abilities.

Senior competition consists of A, B and CGrade,which is open to men andwomen.

Junior competitionconsists of Under 16, Under 13 and Under 9 (T-ball), open to boys and girls.

WillHectorhas been appointed club coach for the upcoming season, coming to the role with years of experience coaching both senior and juniorteams, as well as Latrobe Valleyrepresentative sides.

Incoming club president Kevin Arbuthnot -who has stepped aside from coaching duties to assume his new role -has offered Hector his support on the committee’s behalf.

Several Victorian Baseballaccredited coaches will be assisting Hector throughout the year.

The club has also been buoyed by upgrades to its home ground of Stephenson Park on Guthridge Parade.

“WellingtonShire have done an

amazing job of upgrading our facilities over the past year, which means we can now offer one of the best, if not the best baseball facility in our league,” Arbuthnot said.

Additionally, LV Baseball has announced achangeinformat that will see junior and senior competitions being played on the same day each week.

“Changing to the new format will allow for amuch more harmonious club atmosphere,” Arbuthnot said.

“It also willmeanthat we, as aclub, can increase our efforts ten-fold in nurturing ourgreatestasset; our kids.”

Acome-and-try night for prospective junior players will be held on Wednesday, March 1from 4.30pm at Stephenson Park.

Senior training has already begun, taking place on Wednesday nights at 5.30pm.

The LVBA takes in Sale, Traralgon, Moe-Newborough, Churchill and Morwell.

For moreinformation,sendan email to salebaseballclub@gmail.com or followthe official Sale Rangers Baseball Club group on Facebook.

From Page 32

SONICS 14.2 boys had theirfirst tournament for the year, playing all four games on Saturday, making for along, hot day.

The boys won two out of the four games; losing to Moe 14.1 and Traralgon 14.2, both teams who ended up in the semi finals.

The boys showed some good passages of play, but couldn’t maintain the consistency in the tougher games.

The Sale 14.2 girls narrowly missed out on finals by percentage.

Game1was an extremelyclose game against Leongatha, goingdown by only three points, 24-21.

Game 2was another close game against Maffra- who were runner-up in the recent DandenongTournament -going down by three points again, 17-14.

In the third game, the girls took it to another levelagainst Traralgon, winning by four points, 26-30.

In the final pool gamethe girls kept the confidence to get up against Phillip Island, winning 28-10.

After playing someexcellent basketball in Bendigo two weeks ago, the Sale 16.1girls went into the Warragul tournament with two players out, so it was always going to be achallenge managing tired legs.

Saturday saw them play three games, winning one and losing two.

There were glimpses of good passages of play, however, the girls struggled with consistency and found it difficult to create on the offensive end.

Defensively, the girlsworkedhard and improvementsintheir defensive intensity were evident.

After losing aplayer to injury and having another out due to prior commitments, they were down to only five fit players on Sunday.

Fortunately, they only had the one game.Theycameout strong and played their bestgame of the tournament, going down to afullstrength Morwell by three points.

It was great to see them rally and play great basketball when the odds were out of their favour.

The Sale Under 18 boys took another step forward, making the semi finals in the U19A competition, only losing to Korumburra for the weekend.

Theyhave startedplaying better as ateam and are getting comfortable with the older, stronger competition.

The Sale Sonics junior squads will now prepare themselvesfor their upcoming home tournament in Sale.

The Sale Amateur Basketball Association’stournament will be held at the GippslandRegional Sports Complex from February 25 to 26, with teams from all over the state travelling to participate.

South African shines for Sale

TomParry

IT could not have been abetter day for play in the Sale-Maffra Cricket Association.

Blue skies, warm weatherand dry conditions greeted playersasthey took to the field on Saturday afternoon, contrasting with the previous weekend’s cool temperatures and gusty winds.

The first grade competition saw Round 13 commence, with two sides posting scores of over 200, and another two being restricted to just under 150. All four games are now at theirhalfway point and shall resume this weekend.

Collegians vSale

GARRETH Wolmarans produced amatch-saving knock to give Sale the advantage at College Oval.

The Swans seized theopportunitytobat after winning the toss, and looked to have chosen well whenMatt Jackson hit aboundary offthe very first ball.

Fortunes turned five balls later when he was bowled by Noah Hurley.

Two overs later, Michael O’Brien was gone for a duck, putting the score at 2/4.

Coenie Nel and Dan Padula didn’t last much longer, both gone for 17 and four respectively by the 11th over.

Also gone for low scoreswere Nathan Massey, Ben Jones and Hayden Glover, leaving Sale at a precarious 7/52 in the 25th over.

Wolmarans, who saw the latter three men depart from the opposite end of the pitch, set about rectifying the situation when joined by Matt Raidal.

Over the next 22 overs,the duo added 54 runs to putthe Swansinamore dignified position.

The stand also saw Raidal hit two consecutive sixes off the bowling of spinner Jake Durnell.

Raidal’s departureon26brought WillMcKenzie to the crease, who combined with Wolmarans for anotherrich partnership -this one adding 57 runs to Sale’s total.

After McKenziewas run out for 23, Raaghav Sudan joinedWolmaransfor the 10th and final stand, which saw 58 runsamassed and both concluding the innings unbeaten.

Wolmarans was rewarded for his efforts with acentury -his second in as many weeks -which came in the final over of the day off the bowling of Nathan Whitford.

His finalscore of 105 wasmadeoff 215 balls, including 10 fours and asix.

Tom Morrison was Collegians’ best bowler, finishing with figures of 4/38 from 20 overs, while Noah Hurley took three wickets.

RK vBoisdale-Briagolong

NO totalwas larger than that scored by the Warriors at Rosedale Recreation Reserve. Having won the toss,Rosedale-Kilmany chose to bat first and had alethargic start, not scoring until the fourth over.

Openers Leigh Freshwater and Brandon McDonald eventually got moving, adding 49 runs by the 23rd.

McDonald’s dismissal on 19 saw him replaced by an in-form Rohan Diamond, fresh after making 134 against Collegians the round before.

The second-wicket partnership of Diamond and Freshwater would go on to last 35 overs, with both batsmen scoringata reasonably consistentrate to add 151 runs to RK’s total.

Saints fielder Jonathon Outhart was the one to break the stand, catching Diamond off Kal Randle’s bowling for 73.

Freshwatersurvived just threemore overs before he too was caught, finishing with 84 -a performance that included three fours and four sixes.

The next six batsmen added 45 runs.

Curiously, the Warriors’ innings ended after just nine wickets fell with the score reading 236.

Boisdale-Briagolong’s Shaun May bagged afivewicket haul in his 23 overs, while Liam Hurst collected two -both in the last over of the innings.

The Saints began their first innings late in the day, making three runs off two overs; they’ll need to make another 234 to avoid defeat.

LongfordvBundalaguah

STEPHENSON Park witnessed another superb effort from all-rounder Jordan Price, but it wasn’t enough to put the Lizards ahead.

The toss was won by Bundalaguah, with captain Jason Langshaw sending Longford in to set atotal.

Ten runs werescored in the first fiveovers before Walt Sutton was caught for three; fellow opener SamDean departed not long after on seven.

Andrew Tyson and Jack Heywood were then lost, leaving the score 4/27.

Price and his captain, Lachlan Floyd, delivered the first decent partnership of the day, delivering 32 runs across 12 overs for the fifth wicket.

Price then combined with the club’s president, Brett McMaster, to add 52 in the sixth-wicket, these runs coming off just 10 overs.

More batsmen came and went as Price surpassed ahalf-century, eventually being caught behind in the 46th over with the score 9/130.

Alast-gasp stand from Navdeep Singh and Nick Walkersaw 23 runs added; the former was the 10th and final batsman to fall in the 54th over.

In an inningsthat saw everybody bartheir wicketkeeper, Charlie Morris assume duties with the ball,youngster HamishAnderson provedBundy’s standout bowler with3/19,followed by Kshitiz Sharma with 2/30.

The Bulls started their chase with two Wrigglesworthsasthe openingbatsmen-Lachlan and Hayden.

Sadly, Lachlanmadejust six runs beforehewas bowled by Price in the fifth over, his departure making way for Chris Smart.

Smart and Hayden would go on to survive the remainder of the day’s play, making 52 runs and ending with Bundy sitting on 1/63.

StratfordvMaffra

RUNS were less forthcoming in the other match of Round 13, where Jack Tatterson was the hero in alow-scoring affair.

Maffra won the toss and batted first, losing both of their openers early at the hands of Stratford’s Seb Pendergast and Lachlan Channing.

Ben Harrington and Nathan Hibbins were next to go, both victims of Tatterson’s bowling.

WithMaffra’s score 4/43,Josh Davis and captain Lee Hopkins knuckled down to add 79 runs across thenext34overs.

Tatterson wouldbethe one to break the partnership, dismissing Davis leg-before on 76.

Thevery next over, Hopkins was also trapped in front of his stumps, in this instance by his opposite number, Jack Rietschel on 25.

Tatterson’s assault continued, claiming the scalps of BenSly,DannyButcher and Jack Kelly to finish the innings with six wickets.

Four of those six victims were bowled, and two LBWs.

Rietschel’stwo wickets were both LBW, his other dismissal being the dangerous Dylan Freitag. Maffra’s last two wickets fell in the 69th over of the day, their innings ending with the score on 145. In response, Stratford have so far made 16 runs without loss after 11 overs, needing another 130 to win on first innings.

SMCA SCOREBOARD

FIRST GRADE ROUND 13 (DAY1)

Sale first innings

MJackson bNHurley. 4

DPadula cAnderson bNHurley. 4

MO’Brien

Collegians bowling: NHurley19-0-3-78, N Whitford13-3-1-27,JDurnell 14-5-0-30, TMorrison

SAnderson 5-3-0-5, MNicholls 4-1-0-8, ZHurley5-0-0-19

GMunasinghe 7-3-1-9, HAnderson 9-2-3-19, SSpoljaric9-1-1-28, L Wrigglesworth7-0-1-25, KSharma 9-2-2-30, H Wrigglesworth6-1-1-15, JRead2-0-0-5, CSmart 2-0-0-6, MTempleton2-0-0-5, JLangshaw0.2-0-1-0 Bundalaguah

w2,b2,lb3).

bowling: DBolton 16-5-1-41,

19-4-2-50, SMay 23-2-5-77,N Pang

NSutton2-0-0-15,K Randle 7-1-1-26

JPrice 7-4-1-15, JTaylor4-0-0-14, ATyson 6-3-0-7,L Floyd5-1-0-11, NWalker 2-1-0-6, NSingh1-0-0-2, MMcMaster 1-0-0-3 Second Grade: Bundalaguah 3/87 (J Powell 40*) vCollegians 141(ZRussel 73, MMurphy6/35); Maffra2/90 (J Sekhon 40) vRosedale-Kilmany 87 (J Beaumont 5/23, WRobinson 4/24); Sale 65 (H Tatterson 4/3, TMiller3/8) vStratford3/158 (B Channing 86, JH Rietschel 54*)

ThirdGrade: Sale 8/168(cc) (R Crause 49, BRowley3/39) vMaffra(yettobat); Collegians 9/175(dec) (B Hurley55, COsborne 4/30, AVogt 3/23) vLongford1/3;Rosedale-Kilmany103 (J Reid 50) vHeyfield 2/73 (C Bellion 40*); Bundalaguah 0/81 (S Tudor 43*, PBrady 38*) vNambrok 86 (W Gray 4/29); Boisdale-Briagolong 44(JWoodward 3/11) &2/12vStratford5/94(dec) (N Thomas 42); Wurruk-bye

Fourth Grade: Bundalaguah Bulls 5/233(cc) (M Boardman 50, TWoolford41*) def Longford 9/143(cc) (D Thatcher 33*, JSellings 3/32); Wurruk Toads 4/288(cc) JMorris 52, LVan der Velden 52, WCooke50) def Sale White7/145(cc) (R Coulthard 35); Rosedale-Kilmany5/195(cc) (CMayne 50, I Freshwater 50) def Wurruk Windies 164(BVan der Velden53, ELogan 3/19); Heyfield 6/164 (M Van Ekeren 50) def Collegians 9/162(cc) (M Foster 50, J Pearson 3/18,BDarlington 3/22); Maffra7/218(cc) (B Lanigan 51, JPataki34) def Stratford6/146 (P Nichols 31, VVb3/30); BundalaguahYaks -bye

Under 16: Bundalaguah 6/110(dec) (J Hare37*) and 5/128(PHoran 30*)def Longford68(BStables 3/11); Maffra150 (K Berryman 54, RCorbell 41, W Fry5/26) def Sale 94 (J Duffield 41, RCorbell 4/17); Collegians vStratfordresult unknown; RosedaleKilmany-bye

Under 14: Stratford4/164(cc) (M Pendergast 40, RThomas 36*, BPowell3/29) def Bundalaguah 6/90(cc) (J Lenehan 32*); Wurruk/Maffra5/101(cc) (B Rowley23, CYoung 22) def Heyfield RK 4/76(cc); Collegians 2/80(cc) (W Braden 21) def Longford 8/30 (R Sullivan 2/3, WFoster 2/3, OSullivan 2/6); Sale -bye

Sport

Back in action

THE first round in the 2023 Sale Touch Association seasongot underway lastWednesday in ideal conditions,with six team competing; Phoenix had the bye.

Three new teams, Kitchen Sink, Hussey and Zohan’s competed for the first time. The Drop Kicks withdrew from the competition at the end of last season; however, anumberof their players have joined withLongford to form the Long Drop.

At 6.30pm,LongDrop took on Zohan’s in an even contest, with Zohan’s going downfour triestonine.

The top scorers for Long Drop were Andy Campbell,Jack Neesham, Vi Phuong and Tawh Ashby each making two tries,while Peter Hall made one.

Zohan’s captain, Zoe Curran, was her team’s top scorer with two tries. Chris Lutterl and Izzie Wicks scored one each.

The best playerswereNeesham, Zac Pattison, BrodieTowers, Curran and Rhiannon Massey, with Georgina Kefaloukos winning the encouragement award.

Porky’s took on Hussey, anditwas Hussey’s youngster, Kaidyn Hall, that stole the show with three tries.

ManyPurdon wasthe onlyother scorerfor Hussey.

Albert van de Vyver top-scored for Porky’s with three classy tries.

Mia van de Vyver, Luke Szarek and Soreti Anderson each made two tries, while Taylah Ropeti and Steve Wright each made one.

Best players were Ryan Crause, Andie Schofield, Wright, Ropeti and Amy Purdon. In the final game, Kitchen Sink defeated an undermanned Mustangs teamwith 11 tries to three.

At half time it was seven tries to two with the Mustangs only adding one try in the second half.

Marcus Staglia-Smithand Bodhi Banister

each made three tries, Macey Zielke and Connor Edwards each made two, and Bridgette McMillan made one.

Edwards is perhaps the fastest player in the competition, as was proven by his long runs down the sideline resulting in his tries.

Best players were Staglia-Smith, Tom Purdon, Patrick Doherty, McMillan and Tara Smeaton. Round 2begins tomorrow (Wednesday, February 15)from6.30 pm, when Kitchen Sink play Phoenix and Hussey play Zohan’s.

At 7.20pm Porky’s play Long Drop, while Mustangs have the bye.

Sale Sonics provide mixed baginWarragul

SALE Sonics junior squads travelled to Warragul overthe weekend to participate in thesecond tournament for the year.

The Under 10 boys completedthe Warragul tournament with high energy and positive spirits. They entered the AGrade competition with a difficult draw, playing the top four teams in the competition.

Theywerecompetitiveinall theirround games, playing Traralgon,Warragul, Moe and Leongatha.

Although they didn’t come away with any wins on the board this time, they continued to improve their individual and team games, refining their offensivepassing skills and press breaker, as well as improving their defensive press.

Theboyscontinue to give 100 per cent in every game,and they shouldbeextremely proud to be

so competitive in astrong competition.

Sale Under 10 girls have improved in leaps and bounds over the summer break.

After training throughout summer, they went into the Warragul tournament feeling great.

All theirhard work paid off, with thegirls making the semi final.

They had some great wins, beating Foster by 10 points in the firstgame, and Maffra in aclose one by three points.

They were unlucky against Wonthaggi, going downbyfourpoints and Korumburrabysix points.

They met Korumburra again in the semi final, where they putupa goodfight, but were justnot good enough on the day goingdown by seven points, to the team who eventually took out the whole tournament.

The girls are growinginconfidence and are now playing as aunitedteam.

The Sale 12.2boyshad agreat weekend, winning three out of their four pool games and playing finals for the first time this season. They played their best game of the year in the GTR final against eventual champions, Traralgon, being within two points halfway through the second half.

With under three minutes to go they were still within six points, before some late errors saw the margin fall out of reach.

The boys have been working very hard on their offensive structure, teamwork and particularly defensive footwork and positioning.

They took amassive leap forward at the weekend, and are looking forward to the next couple of tournaments.

Sonics 14.1 boys again played in finals, only losing to one team for the weekend -tournament premiers, Warragul.

Sonics defeated Korumburra 35-12,Foster 46-16, and Leongatha 50-15, but losttoWarragul in the pool games.

Theycrossed Warragul again in the semifinal, and despite some impressive passages of play, went down 46-27.

Warragul is the top ranked team in Country Victoria, and went on to win the Grand Final by asimilar margin against Geelong United,44-28.

It’s great for the boys to play against such strong competition, and to be so close to the top teams, and leaves the club with plenty to workinthe weeks ahead.

Continued Page 30

The Kitchen Sink squadMarcus Staglia-Smith,HarveySteel, Michael Sullivan, MaceyZielke,Dee Horrell,BridgetteMcMillan, (front) Dale Shepherd, TomKitcher,Bohdi Bannister andConnor Edwards.

Laurie Smyth