Gippsland Times Tuesday 20th August 2024

& MAFFRA SPECTATOR Times

Onwards and upwards

Initial Officer Course graduates from RAAF Base East Sale’s Officer Training School ended their graduation ceremony by marching to the applause of family and friends

Pilot Officer Reece Williams (right) was appointed the Parade Commander at last Thursday’s ceremony.

- PAGES 6-7

Less and less for lease

Stefan Bradley

GIPPSLAND’S vacancy rate has continued to get worse for renters, including those in Wellington, according to the latest PropTrack Market Insight Report, released last week.

The vacancy rate in Latrobe-Gippsland statistical area level 4(SA4) fell to 1.32 per cent in July, a monthly change of -0.2 ppt (percentagepoints). The quarterly change was -0.22 ppt,and the annual change was -0.45 ppt.

Earlierthis year, the Gippsland Times had reported the SA4 vacancy rate was 1.52 per cent in January 2024.

Latrobe-Gippsland statistical area level4 (SA4) includes all six Gippsland LGAs, including Wellington.It’s ageographical area the Australian BureauofStatistics (ABS) uses to classify different regions.

PropTrack Senior Economist,AnneFlaherty told the Gippsland Times that population growth in SA4 continued to drivedemand in the rental market.

“Rental conditions in Victoria's LatrobeGippsland region have deteriorated significantly over the past 12 months, with the vacancy plummeting by 45 percentage points to 1.32 per cent.

“Driving demand,population growth has been strong across Latrobe-Gippsland, with the region adding an additional 3383people over the 12 months ending June 2023. Growth into the region was particularly strong over the pandemic years which saw many people relocate into Victoria's regions,” Ms Flaherty said.

“Compared to five years ago, there are an extra 22,818 residents living in Latrobe-Gippsland.”

Ms Flaherty said this growth is placing pressure on the region's housing market, resulting in a shortage of available rental properties which has pushed rents higher.

“In contrast, home pricesinthe area have moderatedover the past two years. In addition to headwinds to prices from higher interest rates constraining borrowing,the region is experiencing acorrection from the highgrowth seen during the pandemic,” shesaid.

“While home prices are down 2.5 per cent from 12 months ago, they remain 46 per cent higher compared to March 2020.”

The median overall home price for SA4 was $563,290.For housesitwas $584,776 and units were $401,605. The number of vacant rentalsacross regional Victoria as awhole declined in July. Regional

Victoria’s rental vacancy ratefell 0.15 ppt monthon-month to sitat1.21per cent.

But on anational level, the rental vacancy rate held relatively steady in July, dropping just 0.01 ppt to 1.42 percent. The slight drop in vacancy was driven by regional markets.

The PropTrack report suggests that "rising investor activity” is boosting rental supply nationally.

Ms Flaherty said: “While conditions remain incredibly toughfor Australia’s renters, rental supply has improved over the past three months, with the national vacancyraterising 0.18pptto 1.42 per cent”.

Capital citieshave seen the largest improvement, with vacancy up in six of the eight cities over the quarter.

“Supportingthe rise in capital city vacancies has been an increase in investor activity, with the numberofnew loancommitments to investors up 25 per cent over the June quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year,” Ms Flaherty said.

“Higherinvestor activity has resulted in more rental properties hitting the market,helping to counteract the increase in demand from population growth."

Continued -Page4

Passing thebaton on (and back)

THE Gippsland Times has appointed David Braithwaite as its new editor.

Mr Braithwaite returns to printmediafollowing afew years working for Sale-based radio station Life FM.

Mr Braithwaite’s appointment also marks his return to the Gippsland Times, anewspaper he worked at for close to 20 years.

During thistime, Mr Braithwaite worked as a news reporter and sports editor, and also stepped up on numerous occasions to fill in as editor when required.

Withthis experience,itisenvisagedMr Braithwaite will bring agreat deal of familiarity and continuity to the role.

Mr Braithwaite replaces Liam Durkin,who has taken astep back to concentrate more on the Gippsland Times’sister paper, LatrobeValley Express and associated publications.

Mr Durkin has been editor of both newspapers for more than two years.

Mr Durkin, who has worked with Mr Braithwaite in the past, said it was great to have someone with

his experience backonboard and in thedriver’s seat

“The paperhas beenleft in very good hands,”

Mr Durkin said.

“We know we can rely on David to do the job well. He has extensive media experience and a very good understanding of local issues that will resonate with our readers.

“It is full circle to some extent, as David actually sat in on the interview when Iwas applying to join the Gippsland Times as acadet.”

GippslandTimesGeneral Manager, Barbara

Seymour welcomed Mr Braithwaite to the top job.

“I’m delighted to announce David’s appointment, it’s great to have him back on the team," she said.

"He is committed to providing our readers with trusted local community news. Given his proven dedication to journalismhe’s the perfectfit for this position.”

Mr Braithwaite officiallystarted today (Tuesday, August 20).

You can email David at editor@gippslandtimes. com.au or phone 5143 9315.

Don’t try and beatboom gates going over GippslandLinetracks

GIPPSLAND motorists are being urged to remain vigilant and be alert when approaching levelcrossingsfollowinga number of recent incidents, where vehicles have damaged boom gates in the region.

Trains returned to the lineinmid-June after weeks of significant works as part of the Gippsland Line Upgrade.

Since trains havereturned, boom gates at level crossingsinMoe, Morwell, Nar Nar Goon, Stratfordand Traralgon -operating to warn drivers of approachingtrains -have been struck and damaged by vehicles.

Since January2022, therehas been10 reported incidents of aboomgatebeing damaged by avehicle along the Gippsland Line, with five of these incidents occurring since late June.

Over thepastthreeyears, there have been 14 collisions between avehicle and train on the V/Line network, and 90 reported near misses

involving trains and vehicles,including14on the Gippsland Line V/Line's Regional Manager East, Tim Pianta, said it was important for motorists to be alert at levelcrossings andnot becomecomplacent afteraperiod of upgrade works.

"Safety is our number one priorityand we urge motorists to always obey the warning signs at acrossing because trains can come from either direction at any time," Mr Pianta said.

"No matter what time of the day or night it is, or how well you know the area, you should always watch out for trains at arail crossing and obey the signs and signals.

"Trains can'tswerve or stop quicklysomotorists need to remain vigilant at all times."

Damage to boom gates can also cause major disruptions to passenger services while V/Line crews work as quickly and as safely as possible to complete the necessary repairs.

Gippsland Times Editor Liam Durkin (left) hasofficially handed overthe reins to David Braithwaite.

Photo: Contributed

Gippy Grammar student awarded

THE stategovernment has awarded the Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize to 12 secondary school students from across Victoria, including Carys Murray from Gippsland Grammar.

Minister for Veterans, Natalie Suleyman announced last Thursday the prize recipients and presented the winning students with their certificates at apresentation ceremony at Parliament House.

“The Premier’s SpiritofAnzac Prize is an incredible opportunity for Victorian students to explore Australia’swartime and peacekeeping history and reflect on the precious freedoms we have today that we owe to the sacrificesofour veterans,” Ms Suleyman said.

The prize winners will embark on a10-dayinternationalstudy tour in September visiting historical sites and participating in auniqueeducational program that connects them to the serviceand sacrifice of veterans. The studentsand threeteacher chaperones will travel to Türkiye, visiting significant historical sites in Istanbul and Çanakkale learning about the courageous actions of those who fought and diedduring the Gallipolicampaign.

The winners submitted outstanding entries exploring the significanceof Victoria’s Shrine of Remembrance or alocal community war memorial in honouring Australians who have served in war and peacekeeping.

“I want to thank each and every

student who submitted projects paying tribute to the Shrine of Remembrance or other war memorials and showed their dedication to recognising the service and sacrifice of our veterans,” Ms Suleyman said.

The group comes from across metropolitanMelbourneand regional Victoria, ranging from year levels nine to 12 and includes First Nations students and students from diverse multicultural communities and backgrounds.

GippslandGrammar student Carys Murray was one of the 12,meeting Veterans Minister Natalie Suleyman and Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh this week.

“I lovetosee Victorian students do well in their education, and Iwas so proud to meet Carys Murray from Gippsland Grammar on Thursday, as one of 12 winners for the Premier's Spirit of ANZAC Prize,” Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh said.

“I want to wish her congratulations, as she heads off on her journey to retrace the steps of the Anzacs.”

The Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize is an annual competition open to Victorian school students enrolledinyears nine to 12 with more than 500 students having been awarded the Prize since it began in 2005.

The 2024 Prize recipients will depart on their study tour duringthe September school holidays.

Meet GUS, the new on-groundsurveillance system

ASMALL workshop in Yinnar is at the forefront of groundbreaking innovation thatcould safeguard the lives of themen andwomen serving to protect our country.

Military veteran Luke Townsendand his eightpersonteamatOutlook Industries haveinvented anew on-ground surveillance system, the 'Ground Unmanned System', aka GUS.

The magnitude of GUS' operational and lifesaving capability attractedthe interest of the Australian Defence Force, resulting in acontract for the local defence robotics and innovation companytosupplythe military withthe new vehicles

Federal Memberfor Gippsland, Darren Chester said it was an incredibleachievementfor Luke and theOutlook Industries team, calling it an inspiring example of Gippsland's growing STEM industry.

"Luke and his team have invented, developed and tested completely new surveillance technology from their workshop in Yinnar, which, whenrolled out in the ADF, will help to protect the lives of Australian servicemen and women," Mr Chester said.

"The remotelycontrolled all-terrain surveillance vehicle is designed to save lives.

"Unlike other surveillancesystems, such as aerial drones, which have amaximum operational period of about 24 hours, GUS technology can operate in an area for two months," Mr Chester said.

"The new ground uncrewed system, equipped withcamera, microphones and AI technology, reduces human risk assuming surveillance roles otherwise performed by soldiers.

"But surveillance isn't GUS' only capability The vehicle can be fitted with different modules for logistic transport,firesupport or medical evacuation."

If you makesuper contributions from your after-tax income or bank account savings, you may be able to claim apersonal tax deduction and reduce your taxable income, while boosting your super. The contribution is taxed in your super fund, generally at only 15% (or up to 30% for higher income earners). But this compares favourably to payingtax at your marginal taxrate whichcouldbeas highas47%. Therefore,this strategycould result in a tax saving of up to 32% –and help you retire with more. You can make adeductible contribution

regardless of your working status, and you can claim

to the concessional contribution cap, which is $30,000 in 2024/25.

However, you may be able to contribute more than this if you didn’t fully use up your concessional cap since 1July 2018, by making some additional ‘catchup’ contributions. But make sure you don’t contribute more than you are allowed, as penalties may apply.

Call fora free wealthdiscussion with Mark DiPietrofrom Shadforth today on 5152 5044 or 0409 521921 67 Macalister St.Sale.

Gippsland Grammarstudent Carys Murray (middle)flankedbyMember for Eastern Victoria,Tom McIntoshand Carys’ mum, Peta Murray.

Photo: Contributed

Federal Member forGippsland, Darren ChesterwithLukeand his wife Roxanne Townsend. Photos: Contributed The ‘Ground Unmanned System’ created by Outlook Industries.

Figures contradict Meta’s claim

IN the first half of 2024, one-third of Australians accessed Facebook for news, anew study reveals.

The finding contradicts Meta's long-standing assertion that news content is aminor part of the Facebook experience for most Australian users.

Meta has previously used this claim to justify its decision to abandoncommercial agreements withlocal publishers.The implications of this are significant for the local journalism landscape, especially for the more than 230 newspapers who are part of CountryPress Australia, the association representing the interests of regional and rural newspapers across the country.

The research emphasises the essential role that newsmediaplaysinAustralia, particularly how regional newspapers contribute to offering balanced and precise news coverage.

More than 40 per cent of Australians cited news access as akey motivator for their daily social media activity,with this tendency more noticeable among Gen Zand millennials at 60 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively.

Country Press Australia President and Warragul &Drouin Gazette publisher, Andrew Schreyer said there were significant industrychallenges ahead, and forecast potential closures of up to 50 member outlets as current agreements under the

NewsMedia Bargaining Code withMeta near their expiration.

The study also found that whileoverallFacebook usage is waning, half of the Australians still turn to social media for news, with 25 per cent using it as their primary news source.

These findings starkly contradict Meta's position that news is aminimal component of the content seen by Australians on its platforms, which Meta claimed represents less than three per cent of the total. This study, initiated by News Corp and conducted by Dynata, refutes those statements.

This researchrelease alignswith the media industry's wait on the federal government's decision regarding Meta's obligations under the News Media Bargaining Code,which mightcompelMeta to negotiate compensation for content with news providers. Meta has threatened to block Australian news content should these costs be enforced.

In an article published in The Australian last week, News CorpAustralasia Executive Chairman, Michael Miller expressed concerns over Meta's threats to remove news content, potentially replacing it with less reliable sources. He also criticised Meta for its lack of accountability.

The studyshows strongpublicsupportfor social media responsibility, with 85 per cent of

Australians agreeing thatplatforms should prevent the spreadoffalse or harmful information. Without trustworthyjournalism,66per centbelievethe societal impact would be negative, anticipating increases in misinformation and decreased media diversity.

Mr Miller highlighted the significantimpact these findings have on public understanding and the obligationsoflarge tech companies,criticising Meta for avoiding transparency.

This analysis of 2500 Australians confirms the integral role of social media in their news consumption habits, countering Meta's underestimations of news relevance on its platform, and exposing the misleading nature of its claims.

Mr Schreyer further highlighted the implications for democracy.

"Democracy in areas without local news is lost. Who is going to stand up to acouncil decision that doesn't meet the pub test? Who is going to shine a light on issues when people don't have abig enough voice to get their message out?

"The research underscores the vital role that regionalnewspapers play in providingaccurate and diverse perspectives," he said.

"As Australians show agrowing dissatisfaction with Meta, the study reaffirms the importance of

maintaining astrongand independent local press to ensure accountability and transparency within communities."

Expansion completed as Yarram Early Learning Centreopens

THE newly-expandedYarram Early Learning Centre was officially opened last Friday, marking asignificant milestone for the Yarram community and the future of its youngest residents.

The expansion has increased the centre'scapacity by an additional 66 approved places.

The official ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Wellington Shire Councillors Garry Stephens and Marcus McKenzie and representatives of the Yarram Early Learning Centre Committee of Management.

Wellington Shire Mayor, Ian Bye expressed excitement about the new facility.

“This expansion represents our strong commitment to investing in the future of our youngest generation. We would like to thank the Victorian government for its support, which enablesmore children in our community to learn,growand thrive in asafe and engaging environment.The new buildingisfantastic, and I’m excited to see howitwill benefit our children andfamilies for years to come,” Cr Bye said.

Council says the expansion of the Yarram Early Learning Centrereflects theirongoing efforts to support the liveability and growth of Yarram and its surrounding communities.The centre,which has been supporting families for almost adecade, is now better prepared to welcome more three and four-year-olds, allowing it to continue its essential role in the community.

The Centre’s Committee of Management, staff and local families were all acknowledged for their support and dedication to the project.

Cr Stephens said: “this achievement wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of our

dedicated staff, the support of local families, and theentire community rallying behind this project. It's aproud dayfor us all”.

For more information about the Yarram Early LearningCentre and the services it provides, phone 5182 5190, or email admin@yarramelc.com.au

This project was funded by the state government’s Building Blocks Capital Grant Program at $2.1 million, with WellingtonShire Councilco-contributing $85,000 and donating the land for the site. The Yarram Early Learning Centre also contributed $200,000 for the furniture fit-out.

“The Yarram EarlyLearning Committee of Management, with the support of Wellington Shire, have worked tirelessly over the past two years to achieve the completion of this impressive ‘state of theart’ buildingthat provides spacious andresource rich learning environments where teachers, educators and children can enjoy learning alongside each other now and well into the future,” ChairpersonYarram Early LearningCentre Committee, Anne Morris said.

“It is recognised that access and participation in qualityeducation andcare are critical factors that enable the best possible start in life for Victorian children. It is ahighly significant achievement to know that Yarram Early Learning Centre plays a central role in increasing positive educational and life outcomes for all enrolled children, especially those who may be experiencing disadvantaged circumstances”.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh said, “free threeand four-year old kinder is making early learning better and fairer -togive Victorian kids the best start in life”.

Demand in rental market sees vacancies substantially lower

From Page 1

MS FLAHERTY continued:“Regional areas, in contrast, have seen conditions deteriorate further, withvacancyfalling to 1.28 per cent in July. Vacancy in the regions has now held below capital citylevelsfor three consecutivemonths.”

The share of rental properties vacant and availableinMelbourne is 36 per centlower compared to the start of the pandemic.

Ms Flaherty has previously said the pandemic saw an enormous

The Gippsland Times, Latrobe Valley Express, and Gippsland Farmer (all produced and printed in Morwell) areaffected by Meta’s decisiontostop paying Australian publishers for news content

Photo: File

YarramEarly Learning Centrekinderstudents Emilia Cutts and Lilly McKenzie pictured with Wellington Shire Councillors Garry Stephens, Carmel Ripper andMarcus McKenzie; Yarram Early Learning CentreCommittee of Management Members -Rebekah Muir, Anne Morris, and Helen Dwyer; and Yarram Early Learning CentreManager,Sarah Gregory.

Photo:Wellington ShireCouncil

The first fossil-free hydropump

PhilipHopkins

PUMPED hydro energy storage is atechnology that has existed for more than acentury,and is used in countless countries around the world.

The technology involves storing water, pumped fromalowerreservoir,into an upper reservoir Power is generated by releasing the stored water through turbines, but when power demand is low, the upper reservoir is recharged by using lower-cost electricity from the grid to pump the water back to the upper reservoir.

In Victoria, the electricity was traditionally sourced from the Latrobe Valley’s brown coal power stations.

Now, aGippslander is convinced he has produced technology that can pump the water back uphill without using fossil fuel energy.

“We’ve designed aturbine that’s slow-revving. We have done one that produces 25 horsepower drive and afive horsepower turbine that turns into a pump. With aone-metre head on the larger one, we can push the water up 12 metres fossil-free,” Fred Sundermannsaid, who lives between Cowwarr and Heyfield.

“We don’t have to have agenerator like now; we can do it via turbine to turbine, which saves the loss of electricity and is much more efficient.” Mr Sundermann, with alife-long interest in design and innovation, hasformasaninventor of agricultural machinery. Seventy years ago, he invented atractor with disc brakes and atwo-stage clutch, which had never been heard of before; and also afinger wheel rake and harvester that was featured in a Landline program17years ago on the ABC.Healso built a40-metre bridgeacross the Rainbow Creek on a Cowwarr property that is still functioning today.

Now, Mr Sundermann likes to call his new water turbine the first hydro pumpmadethatdoesn’t need fossil fuel -and it’s made in Gippsland.

The water pump is mechanically driven by a modular micro hydro turbine that uses the free flowofariver or stream. Aprototype hasbeen made by aMorwell light and heavy engineering manufacturer, Firmins Lane Engineering, which builds and maintains turbines for Snowy Hydro, and “it’s well made’’, Mr Sundermann said.

The submerged water turbine, which drives agenerator, has been specifically designed to maximise operational efficiency in slow to medium water flows of six to 12 knots.

Mr Sundermann said this concept -the generator drivenbythe waterturbine utilising the water flowcontrolled by the operator -isideal where grid power is unavailable or unreliable, or becoming too expensive, or can be supplemented from accessible water flows.

By generatingfreeelectrical energy from stream flows,potential applicationsinclude remote off-grid locations and communities; irrigation channels and pipelines for on-farm use -generator output can be matched to flow periods;waste/wastewater treatmentplants; or tidal areas where the water flow reverses direction about every six hours.

Each turbine deliversupto100kW of power and multiple turbines can be combinedtoform alargerworking unit, or “bank” delivering up to 1MW per bank.

The technology’s advantage over other turbines is thatthe powerblades tilt duringa rotating cycle.

The turbine has auniquedesign; its efficiency is achieved by the tilting of the power blades during the rotating cycle. The blades rotate half arevolution for each full rotation of the central shaft.

This configuration allows each blade to contribute aunidirectional forcetothe centralshaft,for virtually the entire rotational cycle. In this way, the bladescan efficientlyutilise thekinetic energy of the moving water. The central shaft drives the generator via agearbox to produce emission free renewable energy.

“I built the first turbine about 17 years ago and have beenrefining it since,” Mr Sundermann said His water turbine was at one stage an Australian Clean Tech finalist.

Retirement has given him the opportunity to concentrate on the venture, resulting in the ability to pump uphill.

“You can have agenerator, but Icame up with the idea of aspillway. We can push the water up 12 metres,” Mr Sundermann said.

Snowy Hydro, for example, could have 30 metres

of head that could easily push 80 metres up to a reuse dam.

“Wecan recycle20per cent of the watergoing passedout of the spillwaydam up to the reuse dam; 20 per cent of the water goesupintothe dam fossil-free,” he said.

Mr Sundermann has formed acompany to commercialise the invention. His companyteam includes experienced Latrobe Valley executive and consultant John Mitchell, whose background includes localgovernment, and water, sewerage and resource management; and Dr Ulrich Hartig, achemicalengineer and former senior manager

of the BASF Group, who has more than 35 years’ experience in Australia, France, Germany, South Korea, Brazil and Canada.

Mr Sundermann’s lifehas always included helping people; he started amen’s club in Heyfieldand has been aLegacy Officer.

“I havealways beeninterested in renewable energy and thought this idea would help the environment,” he said.

Mr Sundermann is happywith his turbine design and is looking for amanufacturer. It’s hard to getoff the ground, but it’s up for sale to be manufactured.

Local inventor Fred Sundermannwith his water turbine.

Photo: Philip Hopkins

Pride on parade for graduates

Erika Allen

PRIDE was the overwhelming feeling last Thursday at RAAF Base East Sale.

Initial OfficerCourse4graduates -38ofthem -from RAAF Base EastSale’s Officer’s Training School (OTS) were honoured as Royal Australian Air Force aircraft, including aPilatus PC-21 from the Central Flying School and an F/A-18F Super Hornet from No. 1Squadron, performed flyovers to mark the occasion.

You could seethe pride on graduates’faces as they marchedoff the parade ground. You could hear it as over 300 guests -family, friends and those associated with RAAF Base East Sale -gavethema standing ovation. Pride was also on everyone’slips, including Commanding Officer Officers’ Training School Wing Commander (WGCDR) Samantha Couper.

“It’s an incredibly proud day for me, not just for the graduates, but also for all my staff,” WGCDR Couper said.

“The amount of work that goes into getting the graduates readyfor the day is immense, and…I’ve

beenthrough this journey myself, so it’s incredibly special because I’m excitedaboutwhatislying ahead for them.”

Graduates from allcornersofAustralia left their homes and families behind to complete12weeks of intensive InitialMilitary Training at OTS,learning skills associated with leadership discipline, surviving in austere environments, undergoing unique problem solving and risk-based decision-making. The training will equip themwith the skills they’ll needtoperform their responsibilities as the leaders of small teams of aviators within the Air Force.

“Weneed our new leaders to graduate from here with alevel of confidence and competence in leading others,” WGCDR Couper said.

She said OTS teaches its students followership and leadershipand highlighted thatsuccessis often defined by the capacity to work as ateam.

The ceremony honoured top-performing graduates withthreeawards for academic excellence, military skills, and leadership. The awards were presented to graduates by the ChiefofAir Force, Air Marshal(AIRMSHL) StephenChappell, DSC, CSS, OAM who was the ceremony’s Reviewing Officer.

The Air and Space Power Practitioners Award waspresented to PilotOfficer (PLTOFF) Ashlee Hooper. This award recognises her dedication to the pursuit of knowledgeand achieving the highest academic results in course assessments.

Flying Officer (FLGOFF) Abbey Thomas was presented with the Military Skills Award, which recognises her strength in honing the core skills required of an Air Force Officer in fitness, presentation, teamwork, and leadership.

FLGOFF Casey-Lee Rebellato wasawarded the Commanding Officer’s Awardrecognising dedication to continuous improvement anddisplaying thehighestlevels of initiative, leadership and followership.

Photos:Erika Allen (unless otherwise stated)

FLTLTTerrance Englishreceiving theOTS Leadership Sword from Chief of Air Force(AIRMSHL) Stephen Chappell, DSC, CSC, OAM.

Photo:Leading Aircraftswoman Annika Smit

SGTReddish waspresented the honour by chief of Air Force(AIRMSHL) Stephen Chappell, DSC, CSS, OAM.

Dr Greg Steele

Dr Reeha Nandha

FLGOFF Bryce Zerbes claimed the AIRCDRE Allan Pappin, CVO, AM Leadership Award.

WGCDR Couper said leaders stand out from day one and given the 12-week period to excel; students need to prove themselves day in and day out.

The Leadership Award has asignificant connectiontoGippsland becauseAIRCDRE Pappin was aCommanding Officer of OTS in the 1970s. He is the currentPresident of theBairnsdale RSL and often returns to OTS as aguest speaker at dining-in nights.

WGCDR Couper said that on every graduation day, AIRCDRE Pappin sends her well wishes via text.

This level of “enduring community engagement”, as WGCDR Couperput it, began in 1943 when flying training was conducted at RAAF Base East Sale. Flying training continuedafter the end of World War 2.

RAAF Base Saleisassociated witha richtraining history. The first Initial Officer Course at OTS in East Sale took place in 2008, but before that, training was conducted in the 50s out of the nowclosedRAAFStationRathmines, aWW2 flying boat base in Lake Macquarie, NSW. In 1961, the school relocated to RAAF Base Point Cook before coming to East Sale.

From Initial Military Training graduates just beginningtheir journeys in the AustralianDefence Force to aman whowas honoured for 40 years of service, festivities lastweek exemplified afull circle moment. It’s serendipitous because Sergent (SGT) Simon Reddish, who received the Federation Star signifying long service last Thursday,said that as agraduateoffour months, he didn’t know how long he’d last in the ADF. Four decades later, he’s integral to OTS.

“How fortunate are we here at OTS that we have Sergeant Reddish as part of our team with all his experience showing the way forward for our junior leaders,” WGCDR Couper said.

“And that’s the other significant thing here at OTS: the relationshipbetween (who) we call aseniornon-commissioned officer and ajunior officer.”

WGCDR Couper said people like SGT Reddish help shape and guide junior officers towards success. She noted that SGT Reddish is “incredibly good at being amilitaryskills instructor”. His team is responsible for training graduates in Drill and Ceremonial, which they performed at last week’s graduation ceremony in impeccable navyand sky-blue uniforms.

Chief of Air Force (AIRMSHL) Chappell, in his address as the Reviewing Officer, discussed the Air Force uniformasanemblem of legacy and honour.

Asked to expand on his meaning, WGCDR Couper gave an example.

“For Anzac Daythis year, it was the firsttimeour trainees had actually been in their blue uniform. And Iasked them, ‘Who’s participated in Anzac Day activities previously?’ and there were afew.

But Isaid, ‘This was the firstone in uniform.What did that mean to you?’ And there’s (an) immense amount of pride in the uniform. You think about those that havegonebefore youand the challenges that they’ve incurred, the sacrifices they’ve made, the achievements that have been made…and you do, you feel part of that family… it’s an absolute privilege to wear it,” she explained.

As important as the extended family students create throughouttheir training is the suite of emotions passedbetween relatives after the ceremonial proceedings was tremendous, as people ran to embraceeach other and shed tears of pride.

For Flying Officer (FLGOFF) Casey-Lee Rebellato, who grew up on acattle station outside of Newcastle, Defence is in her blood.

“My mother was aserving member in the Navy, she was apianist, amusician. My partner was a marine technician in the Royal Australian Navy,” she said.

“It’sdefinitelychallenging beingaway from yourfamily for12weeks and beingput through initial basic military skills. However, it’s been very rewarding at the same time.”

Asked what her ambitions are, FLGOFF Rebellato replied: “I’dlike to have some form of influence over people andculture at the higher levels, but just getting ataste of it at this rank (FLGOFF) will be really exciting.”

“I’ll be postingtoRAAFBasePierce in Perth as the personal capability officer of No. 2Flying Training School.”

Shesaidher role as aPersonnel Capability Officer willinvolvesimilar responsibilitiesasahuman resources manager.

Like the rest of the graduating group, FLGOFF Rebellato is about to embark on another exciting journey.

“I have spent alot of time speaking with the graduatestoday…and they actuallylook back and reflect on what they’ve achieved, and this is the first step… Now the real excitement begins,” WGCDR Couper said.

“For anyone that’s considering joining, Iwould encourage themtogotothe ADF Career centre and should they be successful and come through the doors, through the gates to commence training, you have awealth of support behind you,” she added.

“We will challenge you, and you will grow, and you will form some of thebest friendshipsand relationships that you ever have.”

Esso Australia Pty Ltd (Esso), awholly owned subsidiary of ExxonMobil Australia Pty Ltd, is committed to operating and decommissioning its’ Gippsland andBass Strait facilities safely and effectively

In planning for these activities and in accordance with the regulations, Esso willprepare application documentation e.g. Environment Plans about the risks and impacts these activities may have.

Community Drop-in

If you’d like to know more about activity plans for the following:

•Steel Pile Jacket Decommissioning

•Jack-Up-Rig Well Plug and Abandonment

•Kipper -Sub-Sea Drilling

•Turrum Phase 3Drilling

•Gippsland Basin Geophysical and Geotechnical Investigations

•South East Australia Carbon Capture &Storage (SEA CCS) Project

•Bream Greenhouse Gas Appraisal Environment Plan (SEA CCS)

•Pipeline Network Decommissioning

The Esso Consultation Team will be hosting community drop-ins between 5:00pm and 6:00pm on:

Wednesday,21August 2024 at The Criterion Hotel, Sale, 90 MacAlister Street

Thursday,22August 2024 at Off The Wharf café, Bullock Island, Lakes Entrance

Tuesday,27August 2024 at the Welshpool Memorial Hall, 49 Main Street, Welshpool

Wednesday,28August 2024 at Manna Gum Community House, 33 Station Street, Foster

To register your attendance, please email us at: consultation@exxonmobil.com

If these dates and times don’t suit, please contact us at consultation@exxonmobil.com or by phone on 03 9261 0000.

Like to be consulted about these activities? Esso is working to identify and consult with relevant persons [stakeholders] whose functions, interests, or activities may be affected by one or more of Esso’sproposed activities.

Please fill in the Esso Consultation Questionnaire (Slido) in the Esso Consultation Hub to let us know if you’d like to be consulted or have any questions or feedback.

Please refer to the NOPSEMA brochure Consultation on offshore petroleum environment plans (link) to understand more about consultation on offshore petroleum environment plans assessed under the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage (Environment) Regulations 2023. Your feedback and our response will be included in the relevant regulatory application documentation and submitted to the regulator

Please connect us with other interested people If there is anyone you know who may be interested in our activities, we encourage you to share this information with them.

To find out more information

For more information about Esso’s Decommissioning activities and other projects, please go to the Esso Consultation Hub at:

https://www.exxonmobil.com.au/communityengagement/local-outreach/consultation-hub

Hundreds of guests including family,friendsand those associated with RAAF Base East Sale stood to clap for the graduates as theymarched by Photos: ErikaAllen (unless otherwise stated)

FLGOFF AbbeyThomas receiving the Military Skills Award.

PLTOFF Bryce Zerbes wasthe parade’s Colour Bearer,picturedcarrying theGovernor General’s Banner forOfficers’ Training School. PLTOFF Zerbes wasawarded the AIRCDRE Allan Pappin CVO AM Leadership Awardsignifying excellenceinleadership, Defence valuesand academics.

PLTOFF Ashlee Hooper receivingthe Air and Space Power Award.

Photo:Leading Aircraftswoman AnnikaSmit

Funding to go towardemergency shelter

Stefan Bradley

WOODSIDE Primary School's recently announced maintenancefunding will go towards their emergency shelter building and roof works, the Department of Education (DoE) hastold the Gippsland Times

Woodside Primary School has received $517,303 to address outcomes of the RollingFacilities Evaluation as reported in last Tuesday's issue (13/08/24). DoE saysthis includes works to achieve complianceonthe school's Shelter-in-Place building and roof works.

Roofworkswere identified during theRolling Facilities Evaluation completed in August 2023, with investigations to fully scope the required maintenancecompleted by the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) earlier in 2024.

The scope of worksfor Shelter-in-Place compliance relate to installing non-combustible materials to the roof, replacement of windows and doors, removal of vegetation within10metres of the building, sealing

joints and replacement of the verandah.

The Rolling Facilities Evaluation is conducted by the VSBAand involves assessments of schoolbuilding's conditions, which also includesinfrastructure such as car parks, footpaths and fencing at Victorian government schools. These findingswill be detailed by the VSBA in aCondition Assessment Report.

Theevaluationisdelivered on arolling five-year cycle and around 300 schools will be assessed each year. This data is used to inform where investment in maintenance needs to be prioritised.

“Woodside Primary School is one of 77 schools identified for maintenance works as part of the Planned Maintenance Program,” aDoE spokesperson said.

“Thisprogramisabout ensuringthatevery Victorian studenthas accesstoa high-quality education in the best classrooms and schools.”

Woodside wasthe only school from Wellington among the 77 sharing funds as part of the August 2024 announcement of 2023–24 Planned Maintenance Funding.

Walk to raisemoneyfor Lifeline

SOME of the teamatEvans Petroleum (trading as BP)

Rosedaleare walking nine kilometres for the nine people lost to suicide daily.

All money raised will go directly to Lifeline to answer calls for lifelines crisis support hotline

To find outmoreorto donate,visit: outoftheshadowswalk.org.au/fundraisers/ evanspetroleumbprosedale

Rare dog rescue in Cowwarr

CFA responded to a‘ruff’ rescue in Cowwarr when apup became lost down awombat hole.

Keno, the curious JackRussell, barked up the wrong tree when he went down ahole behind the Cowwarr Weir and unfortunately became lostaroundfourmetres underneath the surface.

His owner tried to dig him out but when that didn’t work, he calledonthe CFA to help Luckily, crews from Cowwarr and Seaton came to the rescue and got Keno out of the wombat burrow.

Cowwarr Brigade Secretary, Ann Gibbs said at the time that not only did they have to get the dog out, but they alsohad to avoid an angry wombat down the hole.

Fortunately, members dug in the right area to get Keno out.

“All of asudden Keno’s nose popped outofthe hole and abig cheer went up,” Ms Gibbs said.

“His owner was then able to coax Keno out. He was just so grateful to CFA.

“Kenowas abit embarrassed and kept snuggling into his owners’ arms. Ithink he might havegot told offlater. We were so lucky to

gethim out because there was afrost later that night.”

Dog rescues aren’t acommon occurrence for the Cowwarr Brigade. Cowwarr member David Smith, who received his 50 years’ service award earlier in the night, had never attended adog rescue. Pats on the back for all involved.

Keno afterthe rescue with hisownerand Cowwarr captain Andrew Iseppi.

Photo: Contributed

Woodside Primary School hasreceived significant fundingtoheldupgrade facilities.

Photo: File

StafffromEvans Petroleum Rosedaleare taking part in awalktohelp raise money for Lifeline.

Photo: Contributed

Collectiondates announced

WELLINGTON Shire Council’s annual hard waste collection period will begin on September 30 and conclude on November 1.

Council conducts hard waste pick up from residences in declared garbage collection areas, which already have akerbside bin collection. The purpose of hard wastecollection is to provide residents with aconvenient way to dispose of large, bulky items that cannot be collected throughregular waste collection services. It also reduces illegal dumping,promotes recycling and reuseand improves community cleanliness.

Hard waste collection will commence on the following dates:

-If your bin is collected on aFriday, your hard waste collectionwillbegin on Monday, September 30;

-If your bin is collected on aThursday, your hard waste collection will begin on Monday, October 7;

-If your bin is collected on aWednesday, your hardwaste collection willbeginonMonday, 14 October;

-If your bin is collected on aTuesday, your hard waste collection will begin on Monday, October 21, and:

-If your bin is collected on aMonday, your hard waste collection will begin on Monday, October 28. Council said it's reminding residents to place their hard waste itemsontheir naturestrip before 6am on the Monday that collection begins. However, residents should ensurethat items are placed no more than one week prior to their scheduled collection date to keep streets manageable and clean. To ensureasafe collection for contractors,

councilsaidthathardwasteistobeplaced on the resident’s nature strip only. Steel and scrap metal are to be piled separately, withthe totalhard waste size limit being 1.5 cubic metres.

Wellington Shire Mayor,Ian Byesaidthat annual hardwaste collectionisa greatopportunity to dispose of unwanted household items, but before throwing things away think about whether they can be reused.

“Remember, one person’s trash can be another person’s treasure. So, think twice before discarding any large items that don’tfit into your kerbside bin.It’salways importanttoconsider the environmental impact when disposing of items past their useful life,” he said.

Residents are also reminded that E-waste (which is any item that needs aplug or battery to work) is no longer collected as hard waste. E-wasteis no longer permitted in Victoria’s landfills and cannotbedisposed of in eitherkerbside bins or hard waste collection. E-wastemay be recycled for free at any Wellington Shire council transfer station or landfill, withalist of locations available on council’s website.

To view the hard waste collection schedule, or for afull list of items which are acceptable for collection, pleasevisit: wellington.vic.gov.au/ hardwaste or phone hard waste contractor Dasma on: 4124 3000.

Council joins conference as keypartner

THE Gippsland New Energy Conference returns for its thirdyear, from September 3to5,2024. Hosted by the Gippsland Climate ChangeNetwork and in conjunction with hosts,Latrobe City, the conference will take place at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre in Traralgon.

Wellington Shire Council proudly joins as a key event partner for the third consecutive year, having successfully hosted the conference at The Wedge Performing Arts CentreinSalefor the past two years. The two-day conference is set to bring together professionalsfrom the renewableenergy sector, leaders from local and state government and the community to explore the economic and environmental impacts, challenges, and future prospects of renewable energy projects in Gippsland. Attendees willhave access to all sessions, including breakout rooms, catering, networking opportunities, afree ‘Discover Renewable Energy’ community expo, and the Gippsland New Energy Youth Summit; offering an all-inclusive experience. Sessions will cover how Gippsland is emerging as asignificant playerinthe renewable energy

landscape, leveraging its natural resources and strategic location to develop adiverse mix of projects, including wind, solar, hydrogen, biomass and geothermaltechnology. Themes will also include supply chain procurement, skills and infrastructure, manufacturingopportunities, community energy resilience, and engaging with Traditional Owners.

In anticipation of this year’s conference, Wellington ShireMayor, Ian Byeemphasised the importance of local involvement in shaping Gippsland’s renewable energy future.

“Despite the positive outlook, there are challenges to be addressed, such as grid infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and community concerns about land use and environmental impacts. The future for renewable energyisreally promising,with ongoing investments and technologyadvancements driving growthand interest rightacross the region," he said.

"There is no better opportunity to engage with industry leaders, learn about the latest developmentsincutting-edge energy technologies, and networkwith professionals. We’re looking forward

to continued collaboration with stakeholders and the community, driving positive change and sustainable growth in both Wellington Shire and the whole of Gippsland.”

To involve future generations, adrawing competition is now inviting artworks from children aged between five and 12-years-old that capturethe theme‘We Have the Power’. Suggested topics include renewable energysources,energy in everyday life and the relationship between nature and energy.

For more information and to register your attendance, visit: gnec.com.au

 ON Thursday, August 29 at the Sale CWA rooms, McArthur Street, Sale, beginning at 9.30am there will be aSponge Cake making demonstration with well known CWA cook Anne Harrison. Cost is $10 and includes morning tea. All are welcome. Limited vacancies, to book please phone Anne on 0427 310 057.

 MAFFRA Neighbourhood House is taking bookings for aTapestry Weaving workshop to make yourown whimsical textured woven tapestry to brighten awall at home. The workshop will be held on Tuesday, August 27, beginning at 10am until 3pm at the cost of $130.

 GIPPSLAND Legal Service are delivering afree information session on dealing withneighbourhood disputes and utilising personal safety intervention orders at Maffra Neighbourhood House on Friday, August 30 at 10am.

The session is free to attend but it is necessarytobook aplacebyphoning 0422 335 155

 ATTENTION dog lovers, the annual Maffra Championship Dog Shows will be held this coming weekend beginning on Friday, August 23 at the Maffra Recreation Reserve, Maffra Newry Road, Maffra. There will be four shows over three days. Entry for the public is free. There will be stalls and refreshments available on the grounds each day. This is awonderful opportunity for anyone interested inbuying apedigreed puppy to meet and talk with registered breeders and see their dogs.

 MAFFRA Cancer Council unit members will be selling daffodils and related items in front of the Maffra IGA store, Johnson Street, Maffra from Tuesday, August 20 until Thursday, August 22,oruntil soldout

Council said thathardwaste should be placed on the resident’s naturestrip only,ensuring safe collection for contractors. Photo: iStock

Last year’sGippsland New Energy Conference wasinSale.

Photo:Wellington ShireCouncil

Solar Homes program slashing bills

THE state government's Solar Homesprogram has delivered almost as much power across the state as Loy Yang A, andalmostdoublegenerated by Yallourn.

The government said the program has seen350,000 solar panel, hot water, and solar battery systems installed through rebates and interest-free loans. The last 12 months have been SolarHomes’ biggest, with 7873 approved applications last month -including 4435 rooftop solar approvals and 3125 solar hot water approvals.

"The Allan Labor government has helped thousands of families slash an annual $279 million off their energy bills -with more than five million individual solarpanels installed on rooftops, thanks to our Solar Homes program," the government said in amedia release.

"Andasofthis month, Solar Homes has delivered two gigawatts of power across Victoria- close to double the amount generated by Yallourn and nearly as much as Loy Yang A.

"The program represents 13 per cent of the total renewablecapacityinstalled in the state, with its solar panelshaving cumulatively generated 6.5 gigawatt hours of power -enough cheap renewable energy to power every fridge in Victoria for almost two years."

Eligible households can access a$1400 rebate to install solar panels, afurther $1400 interest free loan and afurther rebate of up to $1000 to replace their hot water system -cutting $3800 from upfront installation costs.

Customers who maximise their solar can save around $1000 each year on their energybill. Combined with hot water, heatpump savings can be up to $1400ayear, or at least $1600 with abattery.

“Our popular Solar Homes program is delivering cheaper renewable energy -slashing powerbills and slashing emissions,” Ministerfor Energy, Lily D’Ambrosio said.

The state government says that solar is now installed on 30 per cent of Victorian homes -an increasefrom 14 percentwhen theSolar Homes program started six years ago.

“We’re putting money backinthe pocketsof Victorians-helping save hundredsofthousands of families millions of dollars every year,” Premier JacintaAllan said.

Pool project to makea splash

THE largest capital works projects in Wellington Shire is on track, with the Sale Swimming Pool Complex set to provide long-term social and economic benefits,according to the Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester. Now known as Aqua Energy, the pool complex redevelopment has involved funding commitments from all levels of government, and local contractors are undertaking the work.

"The collaboration between federal, state and local government is delivering vital infrastructure that is supporting the economy through local jobs and will deliver long-term health and wellbeing benefits," Mr Chester said.

"On top of government funding, there has been philanthropic support through the John Leslie Foundation to undertake this much-needed facility redevelopment.

"Gippsland business, Brooker Builders, has been contracted to deliver the project with the redevelopmentontrack to be completedbyJuly 2025 as planned.”

New gym toilets and kitchen storage area, gymentranceramp, front landscaping, and demolition works have been completed while tiling for upgraded change facilities, anew pool deck foundation, and exterior wall brickwork are all underway.

Following the redevelopment, Aqua Energy will feature anew 25-metre pool, indoor zero-depth playspace,changerooms, anew sauna, 24-hour gym access, and improved accessibility.

In Victoria,30per cent of homesnow have solar installed

Photo: iStock

Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester says theAqua Energy redevelopment is on track with the Sale Swimming Pool Complex set to provide long-term social andeconomic benefits.

Photo: Contributed

Women of Wit to visit Stratford

NEED agood laugh? Comedy Victoria are bringing WomenofWit to The StratfordCourthouse on Saturday,August 24. This laugh-out-loud show features Prue Blake (Winner RAW Comedy 2021), Patti Fawcett (Winner Class Clowns 2019), Sonia Di Iorio (Spleen Comedian of the Year 2019), and

Jude Perl(Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala 2021). Wits End Bar will be open serving locally crafted beers, cider and wines. Neirbos Eats will be at the venue from 6pm. Tickets are availableat: stratfordcourthouse. com.au

Comedy Film Fest arrives in Sale

Tickets can be purchased on Humanitix at:events.humanitix.com/over-the-fence-comedy-filmnight-at-bond-street-sale/tickets Image: Contributed

WELCOMEtothe 28th year of the Over the Fence Comedy Film Festival!It's another year of sidesplittinglaughter and exceptional storytelling at the Bond Street Event Centre on August 29 at 7pm. Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt!

This year's line-up celebrates the theme of 'to endings, to beginnings...' exploring the inevitable duo of life and death. The Over the Fence crew havecuratedadiverse selectionof14films from all over the world, showcasing the best of both established and emergingfilmmakers. It's a veritable feast for the senses that will challenge your perspectives and leave you wanting more. For all the cinemaand comedy loversout there, this is an event not to be missed! And it's not just about the films, your voice matters too. Our festival is all about democracy,with your feedbackand voteshelping to determine this year'swinner. So come on down for anightof laughter and celebration and be apart of the Over The Fence Comedy Film Festival 2024.

Please note, the Over the Fence Comedy Film Festival is rated MA15+. For more information please call David on 03 5182 8770.

Prue Blake, “a strong, confident,under achiever by choice”.

PattiFawcettperforming in Women of Wit at the Potato Shed

Sonia Di Iorio,originally from Gippsland. Photos: Contributed

Singer,songwriter and comedian Jude Perl performed in Sale at The Wedge in 2022.

ONE POINTERS

1. Who was pursued by ‘forty thieves?

2. To remain silent on asubject is to ‘keep WHAT’?

3. What name is given to

4. Who was the lead singer of The Boomtown Rats?

5. What was the source of Popeye’ssuper-strength?

6. What colour car is supposedly the fastest?

7. Kermit the Frog said it was hard being what?

8. In Austin Powers, what is the name of Dr Evil’s diminutive clone?

THREE POINTER

9. Where is Gallipoli?

10. The scientist in Back to The Future was named what?

11 What is the key ingredient to an Irish coffee?

12. What was the Newspaper in Spiderman called? FOUR POINTER

13 Who was Neil Armstrong’spartner on the Apollo 11 lunar landing?

14 What film company produced MaryPoppins? FIVE POINTER

15 What kind of insect is ayellowjacket?

Howdid youfare?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done; 15-20: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement; 0-8: Hit the books.

Target Time No. 0223

Howtoplay...

Using the 9letters in the grid, howmany wordsoffour letters or morecan you list? The centreletter must be included and each lettermay be used onlyonce No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural wordsending in ‘s’.

Sudoko No. 0223

THE home at 40-42 McMillan Street, Briagolong is set off the road on approximately one acre.

The house features three bedrooms -with the master bedroom featuring an en-suite, walk-in-robe, ceiling fanand air-conditioner.The remaining bedrooms all have built-in robes and ceiling fans. The living space includes akitchen with walk-in-pantry, appliances and cupboard space. The north facing dining/lounge/family area adjoins the kitchen and is fitted with a wood heater and reverse cycle airconditioner.There is astudy nook and galley style laundry,agentssay The flooring is oak timber in the living and hallways have carpets fitted in the bedrooms. At the rear of the house is an outdoor undercover timber deck area complete with its own outdoor kitchen.

Other features include aworkshop which also has an adjoining carport making it ideal storage for aboator caravan, agents say.The back yard has adam which is filled by ariver rock water catchment.

The home features verandahs and is an ideal lifestyle property giving prospective buyer’sroom to sit back and enjoy the tranquil setting, agents say

Brief details

Price: $745,000.

Delightful home on an acre in Briagolong

Address: 40-42 McMillan Street, Briagolong.

Inspection: By appointment.

Agents: Pat Weatherley, 0412 434 644, and Brett Lanigan, 0427517 577, Gippsland Real Estate.

Mid-century gem forsale in Maffra

So

think solicitor conveyancing is too

when you are buying or selling real estate?

BUILTcirca 1960sisthis midcentury home designed by Eric Lyon. Agents say the skillion roof facade provides aunique look into architecture of the 60s, built purposely to capture light and provide asleek and minimalistic design style, that has stood the test of time.

The three bedrooms are complete with built in robes and ceiling fans, combining lounge, kitchen and dining zones. The light filled kitchen features electric hot plates, dishwasher and built in pantry There is an updated bathroom, along with the utility room that takes in the views of the backyard. Heating and cooling is taken care of with gas heating and reverse cycle unit in the lounge room.

There is shedding for storage along with solar power to help reduce the power bills, agents say Agents want prospective buyers to consider the close proximity to the Foodworks, Kemp Aquatics and Victoria Park playgrounds, helping realise the benefits of this location. This home is perfect for the first home buyer or an enthusiast of midcentury architecture, according to agents.

AAgents say this is aunique chance to invest in aversatile and ideally situated piece of land.

Thousands sign to stop expansion

PhilipHopkins

TWO petitionssignedbymorethan29,000 Victorians that call on the state government to stop the expansionofnational parks in Victoria have been extended after overwhelming community demand.

It comes as local prospectors and miners 'up the ante' in their bidtostopspecific gold mining areas beingincluded in apossible Great Forest National Park.

More than 29,000 people have signed two e-petitionsonthe issue, whichhavebeen sponsored by Member for Narracan, Wayne Farnham and Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath.

Mr Farnhamsaiditwas vitalthat local communities were given avoice, and that by extending the petition, it would allow moreVictorians to have their say.

"Labor's plans will exclude the traditional pursuits of thousands of Victorians and their families who regularly access our bushfor camping, hunting, 4WDing, hiking, mountain biking, prospecting and fishing," he said.

"The Victorian Liberal and Nationals are committed to ensuring communities can have their say about the proposed National Park areas.

"Alongside the 11,500 signatures on our e-petition in the LowerHouse, Ihavethousands more on paper petitions to be submitted also.

"By extending these petitions, we are ensuring thatmore Victorians can tell the Allan Labor

government that they do notsupport their plan to lock users out from these regions."

Ms Bath said there were more than 17,500 Victorians who had already signed the Upper House e-petition that she is sponsoring on behalf of bush users.

"They are sending aclear message to Labor: no more new national parks," she said.

"The Allan Labor government's prioritisation of green ideology focusing on alock and leave approach, clearly shows it has zero regard for our bush users.

"Sixty per centofDepartment of Energy, Environment andClimate Action staff operate out of metropolitan Melbourne -Labor fails to comprehend that state forests are best managed with boots, not suits.

"Labor's environmental mismanagement has led to overgrown tracks, increased bushfire risk and a boom in invasiveweeds and feral animals. Locking up public land is not aconservation strategy, it's neglect."

The president of the West Gippsland branch of the Prospectors and Miners Association, David Saint, emphasised that Gippsland had always been amajor gold provinceinVictoria. Majorgold rushes took place in the1860s and 1870s, when Bairnsdale and Sale were built on gold andthe demands it set in train, and Walhalla's population boomed to 10,000 before 1910, he said in asubmission to theinquiry by the Victorian Environmental Assessment Commission.

Mr Saint said rights and liberties, including land

access, won at the 1854 Eureka Stockade, were one of the most important issues facing hobbyists and professional prospectors and miners today.

"The Victorian government has already classified prospecting and fossicking as 'low impact' recreational pursuits. If we lose furtherareas, other opengoldfields will be inundatedbyprospectors being forced out of these now closed parks and into decreasing smaller prospecting areas," he said.

"Thereare dozensofdocumentsand websites that detail the historic significance of the prospecting areas within the Gippsland region; many are within the 'immediate' exclusion zones that have been references by the VEAC reports.

"These are culturally relevant to our historic gold movement, including leases thathave been held by membersofthe PMAV andtheir forebears."

Mr Saint said one government publication highlighted about 90 different historicalgold sites including their current condition.

"The Geovic site canbeusedtolocatethe enormous number and locationofcurrentand expired gold mining leases in thearea," he said.

Anotherpublication detailed 114 different sites in East Gippsland, and many others, that had had gold miningleases thatstill provided opportunities for prospectors and fossickers.

Mr Saint saidrecreational prospecting was alreadypermitted in some national, state,historic and heritage parks, mainly in central, north-east and western Victoria.

"This recognises that low impact activity of prospecting and fossickingcan co-existwithin

Labor’s plans will exclude the traditional pursuits of thousands of Victorians and their families who regularly access our bush for camping, hunting, 4WDing, hiking,mountain biking,prospecting and fishing.

Wayne Farnham, Member for Narracan

national and historic parks. ThePMAV believes that the areas that have ben identified for changes in status from State Forest to 'exclusion' zones and national park should not be changed because they are being managed and used well enough now," he said. "If the status change does occur, then these areas cannot be locked up."

Breaking new ground to improve soil quality

GIPPSLAND Water,ina media release, said it has successfully used innovative science-based techniques to improve soil quality and grow large wheatand canola crops at its Dutson Downs farm

The site, whichismarginal farmland, is managed by the organisation’s farming business, Gippsland Regional Agribusiness, and plays an important role in the organisation's circular economy operations.

Managing Director, Sarah Cumming said the Dutson Downs site was an example of soil restoration techniques producing great results.

“We use scientifically proven mechanicaland biologicalagricultural tools,with aparticular focus on compost, to improve soil quality and grow high yielding crops,” Ms Cumming said.

“A combination of regenerative techniques are applied,including low impact fertilisation to improve carbon retention and biodiversity and grow wheat and canola crops on site.

“We’re the only organisation we know of using compost to carry out soil restoration on this scale.

“The compost used comes from our 350-hectare composting and organics recycling facility, Gippsland Regional Organics.”

Ms Cumming said the organisation worked

throughout its servicearea to improve sustainability and the natural environment.

“We take our role as caretakers for tomorrow very seriously and work hard to protect and enhance naturalresources at the siteswemanage,”Ms Cumming said.

“We’re committed to leaving Country better than we found it, and our approach is informed by the knowledgethat the health of plants,animals,land and waterwaysare incredibly interdependent,” she said.

“Soil contains microorganisms,minerals, organic matter, and other nutrients that are vital parts of ahealthy, functioning ecosystem.

“Soil qualityimpacts the healthofwaterways and the region’sbiodiversity,aswell as crop and livestockhealth.”

To learn more aboutGippsland Water’s environmental stewardship role,visit: gippswater.com. au/caretakers

Gippsland Waterisusing innovative technology to improve soilquality for crops.

Photo: Contributed

Landcaregrants empower inspiring volunteer groups

LANDCAREvolunteersacrossWestGippsland

have received $337,250 in funding to protect and restore the region’senvironment, in the 2024 Victorian Landcare Grants.

Minister for the Environment, Steve Dimopoulos announcedthe recipients of the$3.62 million Victorian Landcare Grants at the Victorian Landcare Awards ceremony in July.

Across the state, more than 227 projects including 16 in Wellington Shire were allocated grants worth up to $20,000 to fund on-ground and educational projects focused on biodiversity protection, while afurther 296 support grants will assist environmental volunteer groups.

West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) manages the grant process for the region.

“I’m delightedthatlocal Landcare and environmentalgroupsinWest Gippsland will share in $337,250 funding from this year’sprogramto

empower them to continue their vital work protecting and restoring our natural environment,” West Gippsland CMA Chief Executive, Martin Fuller said.

Atotal of 21 grants were awarded to Landcare and environmental volunteer groups in the West Gippsland catchment for projects including revegetation, habitat protection, river restorationand community engagement.

“As aproudpartner of Landcare, we look forward to seeing all these exciting projects and initiatives come to life over the next 12-18 months as we continue our role supporting, facilitating and championing Landcare in West Gippsland.”

Successful projects extend across the region, from ArchiesCreek to Maffra, and include initiatives such as safeguarding remnant forests, restoring swampy woodland to protect threatened species, developingacommunity nursery and inspiring the next generation of Landcarers.

Recipients of Project Grants of up to $20,000 in the Wellington Shire include:

 Dargo Landcare Group, which was allocated $6800 for it's project -Grady's Creek Restoration 2024/2025 Dargo Water;

 Yarram Landcare Network, which received $20,000 for revitalization and aCommunity Nursery Project;

 Yarram Urban Landcare Group received $8633 for ademonstration of revegetation techniques, in particular direct seeding, for it's Yarram Yarram Land-care community project, and;

 Maffra and Districts Landcare Network was allocated $5813 for it's project -Noticing Nature with iNaturalist.

Project Grants are for on-ground works, capabilitybuildingactivities, community education and engagementthat protects or improves our natural environment such as nativevegetation,native

fauna, waterways, wetlands, and soils.

The following groups received Support Grants, which provide up to $500 to assist with costs like insurance, incorporation and operational needs, or meetings andevents or newsletters, websites and other communication:Woodside Landcare Group Inc; Maffra TrailsLandcareGroup; Friends of Freestone Creek(Briagolong); Albert River Landcare Group; StratfordBeefcheque Group; UpperAvon LandcareGroup; Cowwarr LandcareGroup; Merriman Creek Landcare Group; Binginwarri Landcare Group; Glengarry Landcare group, and; Wonyip Landcare Group of

YYLN.

Cowwarr LandcareGroup received aSupport Grant,which provides up to $500 to assist with administrative costs.

Photos:West Gippsland CMA

Beth Ripper is amember of Maffra and Districts LandcareNetwork.

Membersofthe Woodside Landcare Group,who received a$500 supportgrant.

TRUST NON-TRUSTEE SECRETARY

Maffra

Must

description.

We are seeking committed and

Finance Manager

● Ongoing full-time position.

Teacher of French/Head of Dept.

● Position of responsibility attracting 0.14FTE time allowance and $12,816 annual monetary allowance in addition to part-time teaching load. Garnsey Campus, 2025 start.

Teacher of Mathematics

● Ongoing position Garnsey Campus 2025.

Instrumental Music Tutor

● Casual string tutors required for aTerm 4start, or by negotiation.

Early Learning Centre Co-Educator

● Part-time ongoing role at St. Anne's Campus working 3days per week from Term 4.

only. Contact Lee Dugan 0419 518 277

CONTRACT HARVESTING SERVICES -GIPPSLAND REGION

HVP Plantations (HVP) is seeking Expressions of Interest from experienced harvesting contractors to undertake contract parcels of the following harvesting task:

Location: Gippsland, Victoria

Resource: Steep eucalypt plantations

Quantity: 300,000 tonnes per annum

Commencement: 1July 2025

Term: Up to 5years

For additional information, parties must register their interest by Friday, 30 August 2024 via email to chris.phillips@hvp.com.au

Calcimo Lime &Fertilizers is afamily-owned business that has been running for over 60 years.

With askilled team operating from our base in Sale Victoria using awell looked after fleet of modern vehicles to service customers with all their agriculture spreading requirements.

We are seeking afulltime skilled machine operator to join our progressive fertiliser company.

The position will be based at Sale Victoria applying arange of agricultural products to our client's farms.

The successful applicant will be reliable, presentable, respectful, highly motivated, take pride in their work and equipment and lastly be expected to meet our high standards of service to our clients with astrong customer satisfaction focus.

Tractor/agricultural experience would be preferred but not essential.

Heavy combination or Multicombination Licence is desirable but also not essential.

Please email copy of resume to info @calcimolime.com.au and for more information please call 03 5143 0075

QUALIFIED WEB OFFSET PRINTER

PERMANENT FULL TIME POSITION AVAILABLE

An opportunity is available for aqualified printer to join our printing team in the web offset printing industry, producing newspapers.

Youwould be working as part of ateam on alternating day and afternoon shifts, working a9 dayfortnight

To be successful you must have:

• Printing Trade qualifications

• Astrong mechanical aptitude

• A‘can do’ attitude and commitment to task, whilst being prepared to work as part of ateam

• Current driver’s licence and reliable transport The abilitytoprint processcolour and experience on acoldset Goss Community 4high press wouldbeadefiniteadvantage.

Aforklift licence would also be an advantage but not essential.

Please send Resume with References to: The Print Manager

5Jones Road Morwell Victoria 3840

Or via email to printing@lvexpress.com.au

Applications close Friday, 30 August 2024.

Express Print –Morwell is an equal opportunity employer

and must include aCVofrelevant qualifications and employment history, aresponse to Key Selection Criteria and the contact details of 3Referees.

KALCOFF, Dean Joseph 31/3/1982 -16/8/2024

Beloved son of Janet and Jim. BrothertoStefan, Shannon, and Alana.

We all loved you very much and will always miss you. Dean you left abig hole in our hearts, and nothing will ever be the same without you. May God bless and keep you. All our love forever. You were way too young.

KALCOFF, Dean.

MCGUINESS, Terry 21/08/1943

Babe,

This day dawns with sad regret, For aloved husband Iwill never forget. Gone are the birthdays we used to share, But in my heart you are always there. Love you forever, Coral xx

Deaths •

ANDREWS, Matilda "Tillie".

4/7/ 1940 -12/8/ 2024

Loved wife of Tony. Rest in peace

BATES (nee Conole), Beryl Evelyn. Passed away at Stretton Park Maffra on August 16, 2024.

Aged 90 years.

Dearly beloved wife of Ron (dec.).

Cherished mother of Philip and Patricia (both dec.). Now lovingly reunited with her family.

CAVALLO, Antonio

29/5/1939 -15/8/2024

Died peacefully at the Sale Hospital, aged 85. Father of six. May he Rest in Peace

HAMMILL (nee Phillips) Joan Elizabeth. Formerly of Heyfield. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Bupa Portland on 15th August 2024. Aged 94 years.

Loved wife of Boxer (dec) Loving mother to Kaye (dec), Phillip (dec), Mark and families.

MITCHELL, Jeanette Isobel 1934 -2024

Formerly of Cowwarr.

After alifetime of devotion to family, kindness and an ability to see beauty in the humblest of people and objects, our dearly loved mother slipped away, oh so gently onAugust 6.

Born in Traralgon in 1934 to Alan and Daphne Mitchell (nee Wells), sister to Yvonne, James (Jimmy), and Gwenda, (all dec).

Jeanette leaves behind her children Mandy Tommy, and Simon as well as their families, extended family, friends, and acquaintances from her long life of 90 years.

We are grateful to have been enfolded in her loving embraceand cherish the bonds of family she held so dear.

My best friend, talented beyond the lines of your art, the coolest person I will ever know, you are in every fibre of my being and Iwill be with you always. Watch over Jonesy and all you adored. We will carry on without irreplaceable you here. Forever loved and never forgotten. Love you mate. Kathryn.

KARPYS Tomas Michael "Tom" 22/5/1942 -11/8/2024

Passed away peacefully at the Sale Hospital. Loved husband of Val (dec.). Loving Dad of Dana and Greg, Michael and Faith. Best Friend Tom and cherished Grandfather of Cameron, Danny, and Ebony.

McKAY (nee Backman) Betty May 24/5/1937 -14/8/2024

Loved Wife of Don (dec.). Loving Mum of Wayne and Sandie, Barry and Liz, Stephen (Royce) and Leonie. Cherished Nan of Brad, Tegan, Indy, and Billy; Kasey, Jordan, Brody, Chloe, and Noah; Darcy, and Clayton. Rest in Peace

WIGGINS. William Douglas "Bill"

11/8/1931 -18/8/2024

Passed away on August 18, 2024, at Opal Sale Gardens, aged 93. Adored Father of Belinda and Mark. Father-in-Law to Rod and Sophie. Cherished Grandpa of Luke, Jack, Lauren, Remi, Emmanulle, and Natalie.

The family will hold a memorial service in celebration of the life of Jeanette later in the year. Details to be advised. To register your interest, please call Simon on 0428 138 723.

MORRIS, Lois Ena (Robertson). Passed away12th August. Aged 83 years. Loved sister of Laurie, Geoff, Charlie, Margaret (all dec.) Elizabeth and families'. "In gods care"

STARK, Elizabeth "Pat"

9/5/1929 -13/8/2024

Much loved Wife of Bill (dec.) for 72 years. Doting Mum of Wendy and Michelle. Loving Nan of Matt and Tara. Very special Nana Pat to Sienna, Scarlett, Josh and Luke. Friend to Mike, Dallas and Renee.

Thankyou to the staff at Wattleglen Aged Care and Sale Hospital for their care and compassion.

Mum was the last survivor of nine siblings (the Coulson family). The end of an era.

Privately Cremated

AMemorial Celebration to be held on Monday September 23, 2024. Details to follow from Wendy and Michelle.

TULIP, Judy. Judy will be sadly missed by the members of the Bundalag uah CWA branch. She was acheery, kind friend, atalented craftsperson and avalued longtime member. Our sincere sympathy to her family.

WADE, Jim. 09/08/2024

Loved brother of Lyn and Russ Tebb. Uncle to Simone, Anita and Bronwyn. Peace after much suffering.

15/12/82 -22/8/99

Our

Bill passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones and leavesbehind wonderful and lasting memories.

To the greatest Dad in the world. Thank you for everything you gave us and taught us. You always loved us unconditionally and were the funniest and most caring man we've ever known. Your strength, wisdom, and humour were the pillars of our lives, guiding us through every challenge. You showed us the true meaning of family and leave us with memories that will stay in our hearts forever. Though you're no longer with us, your spirit will live on in the love and laughter we shared with you. We will miss you deeply, but we will carry your legacy with pride and honour every day. Rest in peace Dad, forever loved, forever missed. Love Belindaand Rod

Billy was not just a grandpa; he was also an inspiring father figure who always put his family first! We'll miss you forever Billy, thank you for making every memory we have of you alovely one, we promise to sit around and tell the stories about all mischief you got up to, every chance we get♥ Love, Luke, Jack, Lauren and Nat.

Aspecial thank you to Dr Fiona Sundermann for her exceptional care of Bill and to all of the amazing staff at Opal Sale Gardens who loved and cared for Bill like a member of their own family. Finally, to our AuntyPat for her unwavering love and support of the family during this difficult time.

Funerals

BATES (nee Conole). Agraveside service for Mrs Beryl Evelyn Bates will be held at the Maffra Lawn Cemetery TODAY (TuesdayAugust 20 2024) commencing at 11am.

For funeral arrangements for Mr Antonio Cavallo, please check our website or phone:

HAMMILL (nee Phillips)

For funeral arrangements of Mrs Joan Elizabeth Hammill, please visit our website or contact:-

KALCOFF. For funeral arrangements for Mr Dean Joseph Kalcoff, please check our website or phone:

KARPYS. In accordance with his wishes,aprivate cremation for Mr Tomas Michael "Tom" Karpys WAS HELD.

McKAY (nee Backman). The funeral service for Mrs Betty May McKay will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street, Sale at 1pm on FRIDAY (August 23, 2024), followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

WIGGINS. For funeral arrangements for Mr William Douglas "Bill" Wiggins, please check our website or phone:

WIGGINS, William Douglas. Passed away August 18, 2024, aged 93. Much loved father to Mark, father-in-law to Sophie, and grandfather to Remi and Emmanuelle. He called me Bud and ever was. His unconditional love, boundlessenthusiasm and constant humour brightened our days.

Acrackshot,low handicap golfer, fluent swing bowler and "best dressed man in white" football umpire, Billy embodied turn of the 20th century Australian traits such as resourcefulness and improvisation: was there anything he couldn't do or fix?

In loving remembrance. Mark

We’ve been help ng Gippslanders with care and respect for over

Funeral Directors

CAVALLO.

BATTLEY, Ryan James.

beautiful boy. The sands of time will never wash away the love we have for you. Your memory remains in our hearts forever. Mum and Dad.

Brave Bombers fall just short

Erika Allen

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG versus Lindenow

South in the Senior Women’s Female Football 2024 Grand Final seemed inevitable.

Both teams were in a league of their own this season and only suffered losses at the hands of the other.

But out of the five occasions the teams played, including in a qualifying final, the Swampies had the upper hand.

The most crucial win, without a doubt, ended in a noisy rendition of a club song on Sunday that established Lindenow South as the best team in FFG 2024.

The Swampies defeated the Bombers 7.5 (47) to 5.1 (31) in the Grand Final.

If football games could be measured in more than points, then decibels might be an option. The Grand Final began with a cacophony of cleated boots on asphalt as the teams ran onto Churchill's Gaskin Park’s oval to whistles, car horns, cheers, and the sound of hands slapping metal.

The excitement developed in the quieter moments between the warm-up and the initial siren.

As soon as it sounded, however, everything was obviously at stake, and everyone was willing to lose their voice if it helped get their team over the line.

Bombers fans were the first to have something to cheer about in the sixth minute, when young gun Meg Graham snatched up a ground ball and snapped it from within a pack about 15 metres in front of goals.

The Sawmpies weren’t sluggish in moving the ball forward, though. Bombers’ defenders Mea Perkins, Amanda Hancock, and Megan Lee needed stamina and strength to combat Lindenow South’s relentless run on goal. Eventually, the Swampies converted, giving them a one-point lead at quarter time.

The second term started similarly for the Bombers when captain Shani Dixon ducked and weaved through defenders. Ultimately, she had to handball to space – a manoeuvre Dixon used again and again like an Uno skip card – because it allowed her to scoop up her own ball and dribble it between the big sticks.

You knew when the Swampies answered because you could hear it. Unapologetically vocal, assertive and loud. Lindenow South’s rough and tough style of play was on display. Their defensive players smothered Bombers’ goal scoring star, Emily Porter, in her 50th club game, and stopped her from making an impact until late in the final quarter.

Just as loud as the atmosphere was at Gaskin Park, the Bombers had their fan’s hearts galloping going into the second half after another ‘how was that a goal?’ type goal off Dixon’s boot saw Boisdale-Briagolong in the lead by 12 points 4.1 (25) to 2.1 (13). Dixon’s goal manifested out of charging determination 40 metres out. It was about the third attempt in as many minutes Dixon had sought a goal.

Lindenow South played big in the third. Captain Brodie Harris and the eventual best-on-ground

player for the match, Gabrielle Foster, kicked goals from distances that had Boisdale-Briagolong’s coaching staff cursing the second to last quarter.

A come-from-behind win was helped by accuracy and cleaner ball handling.

Zan McCall was an anchor for the Bombers in the ruck, bringing almost every centre clearance from her impressive vertical jump to the ground. But the Swampies had reassumed their quarter time lead of one point.

The fourth quarter started in the Swampies’ favour as they scored two goals within 10 minutes. There was hope-filled moments for the Bombers, but ultimately, their quest for a fifth premiership was quashed by Lindenow South.

Despite the loss, Boisdale-Briagolong has had a stellar season as a club, marked by standout

individual performances that were honoured at last Friday’s league presentation held in Morwell. Vice-captain Laura Jonston took out the Senior Women’s Best and Fairest title. Amanda Hancock and Shani Dixon finished in a three-way tie for third. Summer Harbour was the runner-up in the Youth Girls Division 1 Best and Fairest. Youth Girls player Olive Brooks was nominated for the Outstanding Sportsmanship Award for her dedication to volunteering and umpiring. Emily Porter was recognised in retrospect for the 2023 Leading Goal Kicker Award. The Youth Girls team took out equal first honours in the Code of Conduct Award. Senior Women’s Coach Jason Miller and Youth Girls Coach Craig Lear were also nominated for Coach of the Year.

Sale umpires all female GF panel

Erika Allen

SALE Umpires Association made history with its first all-female on-field Grand Final panel.

The six umpires officiated the Division 2 Female Football Youth Girls match between Korumburra/ Bena and Woodside at Gaskin Park.

SUA Director of Umpiring, Shane Garvey said the association believe it is a first for the region on top of being the first time the SUA has fielded an allwomen umpires panel in a Grand Final. Two more notable instances of all-female umpiring panels this season have included a recent preliminary final and FFGs Gather Round.

“We are extremely proud of our women and girls this year, and this celebration of female umpiring comes on the back of a concerted effort to recruit more females into umpiring, something we are happy to (have) achieved in 2024,” Garvey said.

“As supporters of Female Football Gippsland, we are also glad that this is occurring in that league, so as to further promote women and girls in all aspects of football.”

The panel of six umpires included boundary umpires Cathy Dobson and Ash Lovas. Lovas is the Female Liaison for the SUA, with her role encompassing support and advocacy, she told the Gippsland Times in May.

Among the newer members within the panel are Kaila McKenzie, Lara Dowsett and Summer Harbour. McKenzie and Dowsett were the boundary umpires for the game, and Harbour umpired the field alongside Tracey West.

McKenzie, Dowsett and Harbour are also talented young football players and teammates on the Boisdale-Briagolong Youth Girls Division 1 team. Harbour was the FFG Best and Fairest runner-up in Division 1 this season.

Garvey said that Harbour is both competent as a field and boundary umpire, having started out on

the boundary. Only umpiring in her second season, he said Harbour has improved tremendously and would make an excellent senior boundary umpire next season.

Umpires are like the third team on football fields, Garvey says, meaning teamwork and camaraderie are important. Asked if the group were anticipating nerves or excitement, Garvey said they were more relaxed than anything.

“Having that connection (and) having that camaraderie, we talk about umpiring teams for games, so some people just umpire well together

and there’s some people that don't," he said.

“These girls have been (umpiring together) all finals series and they’ve all gelled really well.

“We'd love to encourage more people to come along and umpire. That's the main thing is, (we’re) just proud of them being able to achieve what they've achieved this year.”

At the end of the game at the trophy and medal presentation, FFG Committee President Graeme Smith thanked the umpiring panel, and Garvey presented them with medals commemorating their role in the Grand Final.

X Coach: Jason Miller X Captain: Shani Dixon X Vice captain: Laura Jonston X Team manager: Julia Miller X Total goals this season: 79 X Total points: 557

Emily Porter (30), Shani Dixon (18), Meg Graham (12)

Laura Jonston (10 times listed), Mia Allen (5), Shani Dixon (5), Jacqueline Edwards (4), Madi Shingles (4), Zan McCall (4), Holly Webb (4)

Shani Dixon, Laura Jonston, Jacqueline Edwards, Amanda Hancock, Mea Perkins, Cassandra Herdman, Klaudia Miller, Olivia Marshall, Emily Porter, Mia Allen, Grace Smolenaars, Bridie Daly, Lucy-Belle Macreadie, Laura Jonston, Dana Peverill, Megan Lee, Madi Shingles, Chellce Ward, Holly Webb, Zan McCall, Felicity Paterson, Stacey Mckinley, Teagan Chester, Ashley Chester, Caitlyn Maree, Jacinta Mason, Meg Graham.

Sale Umpires Association Cathy Dobson, Ashleigh Lovas, Tracey West, Summer Harbour, Kaila McKenzie and Lara Dowsett officiated Sunday’s Female Football Gippsland Division 2 Youth Girls Grand Final. Photo: Erika Allen

Boisdale-Briagolong captain Shani Dixon sends the ball forward just as Lindenow South’s Gabrielle Foster tackles her.

Amanda Hancock plays in defence for Boisdale-Briagolong and is on the coaching staff for the Woodside Division 2 Youth girls team that appeared in a Grand Final earlier on Sunday.

Boisdale-Briagolong’s Senior Women’s Female Football Gippsland Grand Finalists. Photos: Erika Allen

Emily Porter runs through the banner onto Gaskin Park for the Grand Final, in what was also her 50th club game with Boisdale-Briagolong.

Wildcats putupgreat fight

ErikaAllen

WHAT awild ride it's been.

Woodside'sfinalscampaignendedmuch likeits regular season -with asurge in the second half. Call them what you want, the underdog or the dark horse of Youth Girls Division 2, but it's undeniable the Wildcats deserved to playinthe 2024 Female Football Gippsland Grand Final.

"I don't think anyone rated us at the start of the season," Woodside coach Travis Dillow said, as he addressedthe team post-match.

Yet the Wildcats won five of their last eight games between Round 7to14ofthe home-and-away season. They won atotal of seven games from 14 rounds. They didn't step wrong in amust-win Round 14 match against Phillip Island that hurtled them into the top four. They dusted up Nar Nar Goon in the Elimination Final,ateam who'd previously beaten the Wildcats on two occasions, and they pulled off one of the upsets of the season by sending Grand Final favourite Dalyston packing in the semis.

"But here we are in aGrand Final within seven points of ateam that only lost one game this season," Dillow continued proudly.

The Wildcats fell short of premiership glory on Sunday, beaten to the siren by Korumburra/Bena 5.4 (29) to 3.4(22), in agame thatwas sure to have hearts racing at Churchill's Gaskin Park.

The Youth Girls Division 2FFG Grand Final was the curtain raiser of three finals on Sunday. Spectators were dressed in either blue and navy, or grey and orange as they cheered with homemade pom-poms by blaring car horns and beatingon metal signs around the boundary.

Woodside was on the front foot early,assertively moving the ball into their forward line but only scoring aminor. One optimistic spectator remarked: "That could be the winning point".

The teams struggled converting in the first quarter, and the Giants held it in their forwardhalf

The Wildcats' firstgoal came in the second term.

The celebration was ariot, and Woodsidewas energised.But as the best teams do, Korumburra/ Bena answered,and three consecutive goalssaw the Giants lead3.5 (23) to 1.2 (8) at the mainbreak. Woodside's pressure and percentage game was their strength on the weekend.Clean tackles pressured Korumburra/Bena's players, who coughed up free kicks for incorrect disposal or holding the ball.Sophie Foat was one unrelentingtackler who took ashot on goal that fell short.

Still, Woodside was unrelenting and took every chance, starting the fourth quarterlike the second term. Krista Walpole was another tenacioustackler and earned herself aset shot at the top of the goal square,whichshe seamlessly converted to bring the Wildcats within 10 points. Woodside surged again. This time, Chloe Barlow

had broken away from apackand would have had spectators holding their breath as she dashed towards goal. The ball flew off her boot and tumbled towards goal, only to bounce awkwardly and dribble in for abehind.

As the 12thminute dwindled, Esther Hinkley won afree kick from atacklethat caught out aGiants player for throwing the ball. Hinkley took her time sizing up the distance-about 25 metres from goal. Did it? Or didn't it? The kick just made the distance, but over the loud cheers, Hinkley needed to know for certain,soshe asked: "Did it go through?"

Pure elation covered her face when the two white flags waved, and the Wildcats were within eight points.

The ball drifted within Woodside's forward 50 for the remainder of the game, and aheightened sense of tension seemed to blanket Gaskin Park. But hushed ‘c'mons’, shoutsofencouragement, and wishes for divine intervention could do nothing to

stop the clock from ticking down to the final siren.

Korumburra/Bena's coaching staff shouted: "30 seconds to go." Although the ball was still in Woodside's forward50, and Grace Dillow attempted to charge throughindefiance, it was the Giants who used the luck of the boundary, with at least three stoppages allowing them to watch the clock wind down.

It's pretty standard to hear 'there's always next year'. Woodside, however, won't be the underdog or the dark horse, and their fierce competitiveness will count for everything in 2025, just like it did this year.

WOODSIDE WILDCATS

Coach: Travis Dillow

Manager: Andrea Walpole

1Krista Walpole

3Aroha Anderson

4Sophie Foat

Draw adds spice to finals race,three ‘live’ gamesremain

From Page 32

ENTERING red time, Sale’s Mitch Dowse set off downthe wing and found himself with acres of space, kicking agreat goal on the run to make it six points to the advantage of the visitors.

In what wasa remarkably free-flowinggame given the clock ticking well into red time and what was at stake, Morwell made it all square once again after Brandon Mcaulliffe found himself all alone inside 50,who in turn passed to Tyler Brown, who made no mistake from aslight angle.

The Magpies weren’t done with yet, and the script appeared perfect for key forward Brad Dessent in his 100th senior game.

Dessent took agrab45metres out at the 26-minute mark. His set shot however wentacross the face, and Morwell rebounded without conceding abehind.

Some manicmomentsfollowed, and it looked certain the Tigers were going to score going from one end of the ground to the other.

Brown sent the ball toward McDonald, who was goal side and with Sale defenders Will Leslie and Jake Hutchins some distance away. The ball however eluded him, and afree kick was paid to Leslie.

Leslie kicked to Hudson Holmes, whothen passed to Jack Leslie at half back.

Leslie sent along ball to centre wing, which was marked by Jonty McGuinness, who quickly played on and sent the ball inside 50.

The ball spilled to Johnstone, who then wheeled and found Henness unattended.

Henness, who has played seven games for Port Melbourneinthe VFL this season, then made sure Round 17 returnedwith the biggestcomplexity imaginable.

Leading in, all predictions on the run to finals surrounded either aMorwell or Sale win.

No one had considered what would happen if there was adraw.

Dessent won’t be forgettinghis 100thsenior game any time soon, nor will Morwell playing-coach Boyd Bailey, who was celebrating the same milestone.

Best for the Tigers was Charlie Burr,Brown (three goals), Aidan Quigley, McDonald (fourgoals), Zac Anderson and Burkeley Macfarlane. McGuiness was best for Sale, followed by ShannenLange, JackMcLaren, Patrick Tainsh, Derek Eggmolesse-Smith and Will Leslie. MAFFRA was well beaten by Traralgon.

The Eagles lost 16.12 (108) to 6.8 (44) at home.

Takingonthe Maroons, who needed to win to secure adouble-chance, the game quickly became one-way traffic.

Thevisitorsput up six goals to one in the first

term, and went on their way from there. Traralgon wasruthless, and did not even let Maffra score in the last quarter.

Unfortunately for the Eagles, the result means they will claim the wooden spoon this season -their firstsince 1987. Maffra howeverhas agood chance of ending the year with awin, playing ninth-placed Warragul this weekend.

AlexCarr, Seth Smith,Thomas Scott,Jett Killoran,Lachlan Allman and Kade Renooy battled hard for the Eagles.

Best for Traralgon was Sam Hallyburton, Luis D'Angelo, TyeHourigan, Dylan Loprese, Jordan Cunico and Josh Hamilton.

IN other games, Wonthaggi smashed Drouin to catapult the Power to fourth position on the ladder. Moe sewed-upits double chance, beating Warragul in aphysical game, while Leongatha annihilated Bairnsdale.

Coach Travis Dillowaddresses the team post-match, thanking players and their families, also looking to go onebetter next year.

EstherHinkley celebrates aclutch goalinthe Youth Girls Division 2Grand Final.

Photos:ErikaAllen

Woodside Youth Girls run out for the Grand Final.

CHEYENNE

ROUND

Friday,August16

Essendonvs SydneySwans(MRVL)(N)

Saturday,August17

GoldCoastSUNSvs Melbourne(PFS) GWSGiantsvs.Fremantle(ES) Collingwoodvs.BrisbaneLions(MCG)

PortAdelaidevs.AdelaideCrows(A0)(N) StKildavs.GeelongCats(MRVL)(N)

Sunday,August18

WesternBulldogsvs.NorthMelbourne (MRVL)

Hawthornvs.Richmond(MCG) WestCoastEaglesvs Carlton(OS)

Sale City surge into finals picture

TomHayes

THE season is over for six teams as the homeand-away portion came to aclose at the weekend in North Gippsland football.

Now it all comes down to the final five who had already been confirmed before the final round got underway.

The closest game of the round truly shows how this season is up for grabs, with only one point eventually separating first and fifth.

 WOODSIDE made sure of second place. Withthe slightestchance that the Wildcats could drop to third, although it wouldn’t change their finals situations all too much, they made sure they didn’t fall at the weekend.

Nothing was assured in the last round for Woodside, who were hoping to put aclose to their shaky entry into finals.

Aslip-up the week before to seventh-placed Rosedale was exactly why Woodside needed to win at the weekend, to ensurethey have their confidence high with it all to play for from now on. Fortunately for the Wildcats,when they travelled to Fred King Oval to face Glengarry, they weren’t presented with the hardest of tasks.

Woodside set the tone from the very start, claiming the four pointsinamonster 27.17 (179) to 2.10 (22) win.

The seven-goal to none firstterm had the Magpies flat and defeated with three quarters still to play. With 46 points up theirsleeve by quartertime, Woodside had already potentially done enough to confirm the win.

Woodside kept the foot firmlydownupuntil halftime, adding another seven goals, while Glengarry found their first.

But the game wasalready out of reach, the visitors up by 80 points at the half.

Woodside just continued to get better, and disappointinglyfor the home side, theywere going to end their season on asour note.

Thekillerblow was dealt in the third term, as the Wildcats clawed at the Magpies, registering 9.2(56)tothree behinds to send theirscore and the margin over 100 points, up to 133 points with 30 minutes to play.

The storm began to settle for Glengarry in the finalquarter, but Woodside made sure they won every quarter.

Kicking four goals to one in the final term, the Wildcats put astamp on their 157-point victory.

Daniel Farmer contributed more thanhalfofthe Wildcats’ goals, scoring 14, to claim best-on-ground honours. He was joined in the bestbyLee Stockdale, Liam Heard, Michael O’Sullivan(five goals),Brody Stainer, and Joh Fythe.

Glengarry’s best included OscarBradford, MichaelRyan, Callum Mitchell, Jack Burgess, Henry Bishop, and Liam Mitchell.

It wasall smilesfor Woodside, whoclaimed the win to confirm second, doing so in Cameron Whiteoak’s 150th senior game. Unfortunately for Thomas Harris, the Magpies couldn’t get it done for him in his 50th senior game.

Glengarry seniorcoachAlexBirmingham resigned for nextseason during the week and will be looking to lift the Magpies from the bottom part of the ladder when he resumes in 2025.  YARRAM finished closer to eighth place than fifth place.

The seasonappeared to get away from the Demons as it continued to roll along.

Yallourn YallournNorthhostedYarram at George Bates Reserve at the weekend, not only showing why they deserved to finishinthe top three, but also showing why Yarram didn’t deserve to play finals in the end.

The Jetsclaimedamassivewin going into finals, 17.7 (109) to 8.8 (56).

Picked as the favourite heading into the game, the Jets had the most to lose heading into thefinal round, with the potential to drop to fourth, losing their double chance.

Butitwas in their hands to prevent that from happening, and all that was needed was to win against asidethat lacked confidence throughout the second half of the season.

As for YYN, they were thriving, after just dealing Churchill’s first 100-point senior loss in 14 years the weekend prior.

They started well but were by no meansdominant on the scoreboard after the opening stanza, leading by 11 points at the end of the first quarter. That narrativeshifted before halftime however, as the next 30 minutes ultimately decided the game.

YYN piled on 5.2 (32) to three behinds, opening up a40-point lead at halftime. At this point, the Jets had one hand on adouble chance berth. If the outcome wasn’t decided already,itcertainly was by three quarter time, after the Jets continued to run rampant on their home deck.

YYN added another six goals, while the Demons mustered three for themselves. Nonetheless, the margin kept going north, now at 58 points with a quarter to play.

Yarram fought hard to finish the season strong, making sure to not let the Jets have it easy. The

Demons won the finalquarter,kicking threegoals to two, but the game was over beyond doubt as the Jets gothome by 53 points.

Tom Hutton (three goals) was namedbest-onground,and was assisted well by Dylan Bath, Darcy Shellcot, Anthony Young, Ben Morrow, and James De Virgilio.

During the week it was announced that YYN senior coach Tom Hutton would be stepping down from his role at the end of the season, and the way he has theJets rolling now, he’d be hoping for a successful finals campaign.

YYN Might find themselves successful if their next senior coach can continue to kick goals. The Jets announced Dean Macdonald would take the reins for season 2025,a day after defeating Yarram. Macdonald kicked four goals against Yarram in the final round of the season to wrap up the North Gippsland goal kicking in his name. He booted 71 goals from16games, 12 moregoals thanthe next best.

The Demons finished closer to eighth than fifth, not based on position, but points and percentage wise.

They ended in sixth, eight points outside of the top five,alsoeight points from Churchill in eighth. However, the Demons were also almost 90 per cent worse off than the fifth-placed Heyfield, while only two per cent better than the Cougars.

 WHAT aturnaround Sale City has been in 2024.

From being the distant outsider to surging well into the top five, the Bulldogs are officially the smoky for the 2024 flag.

Sale City madenomistake when travelling to the Boneyard to take on Gormandale, obliterating them to the tune of 193 points, 33.23 (221) to 4.4 (28).

Perhaps this game wasoverbefore it started,but nonetheless, now that it has resulted, the Bulldogs are in aperfect position to roll through the finals frame.

In terms of play on the field, there was nothing really notable besides the score, which continued to grow and grow.

SaleCity kicked eightgoals to one to startthe game, leading comfortably by 45 points at the first break.

Thevisitors onlygot stronger,kicking9.7 (61) to asole goal up until halftime, leadingby100 points on the dot already.

Seven goals to two in the thirdterm showed some more competitiveness between the two sides, but the game was done and dusted.

Sale City led by 131 points going into the last quarter, beforethey added another 9.8(62) to nothing to close out the near 200-point win.

In the 106 meetings betweenthese two sides, they have both now won 53 games apiece.

North Gippsland Seniors

(Top five qualify,top three double chance)

Qualifying Final

Saturday, August 24 at YYN

Woodside (2nd) vs YYN (3rd)

Elimination Final

Sunday, August 25 at Rosedale

Sale City (4th) vs Heyfield (5th)

2nd Semi Final

Saturday, August 31 at Sale City

TTU (1st) vs winner of QF

Cooper Whitehill was exceptional for the Bulldogs, as was Kaden McCulloch, Hudson Tollner, Kyan Sellings (three goals), Brysen Nottle, and Flynn Read (seven goals).

The Bulldogs had 14 goal scorers, 10 of them kickingmultiplegoals,all whileregistering 56 scoring shots.

TroyCarstein played his 150th game forSale City, kicking two goals in the monster win.

The netballers joined in with the footballers for the club song after the game, after they finished the season undefeated in the AGrade competition.

For Gormandale, theirbest included Tristan Salerno, Trent Baldwin, Darren Burgess, Malachi Dillon, Chris Potalej, and Hayden Richards.

Although the Bulldogsjumped intofourth on the ladder, it doesn’t change the outcome of the finals picture, as they were destinedtoplay an Elimination Final against Heyfield this weekend.  EASILY the best game of the round ended in dramatic circumstances.

Heyfield had the chance of jumpingupinto third, but evidently after YYN’s win, fourth would be the highest they could go. TTU had first locked in but wouldn’t have wanted to drop agame this close to finals.

Between two sides that would finish the homeand-awayseason first and fifth, TTU prevailed by the smallest of margins, winning 10.15 (75) to 11.8 (74).

There wasn’t much separating the two sides at any of the breaks, as the Bombers led by five points at quarter time, but the Kangaroos ascended ahead in the second term to lead by seven points at the half.

Heyfield proved they were abetter team than fifth place suggested, but only goes to show how close finals might be in 2024.

Both sides kicked three goals in the third quarter, but TTU edged closer and trailed by just four points with 30 minutes to play ahead of them.

The final term began withagoal to Nicholas Dinsdale, putting the Roos 10 points up, but the Bombers weren’t disheartened.

Despite their attacking efforts, TTU would conjure up the next threescores, albeit behinds, cutting the margin to seven points. Going up the other end, the Roos would rush ascore to lead by eight points with 13 minutes remaining.

But streaming coast-to-coast, 90 seconds later, TTU would find themselves within touching distance, when Zach Kilgower slotted his chance, cutting the margin to two points with 11 minutes still to play.

Although there would be no more goals scored, the lead would change hands. TTU had the momentum andcontinuedtosurge forward, and despite getting close they would manage to rush two scores, with

Finals Schedule

1st Semi Final

Sunday, September 1atGlengarry

Loser of QF vs winner of EF

PreliminaryFinal

Saturday, September 7atHeyfield

Loser of 2nd SF vs winner of 1st SF

Grand Final

Saturday, September 14 at Churchill

would tie up the scores with six minutes left. With everything to play for, Heyfield found themselves closer to TTU than anyone had been since they were beaten in Round 1.

But as TTU dominated possession, they would find themselves another chance to score, and they did. Kye Neilson would kick apoint with two and ahalfminutes remaining, giving the Bombers a vital one-point lead.

Time would eventually expire while the Bombers led by apoint, claiming their 15th win of the season.

William Curtain was the bestfor TTU, joined by Hayden Willaton,TrentHourigan,Flynn Shields, Stuart Goddard, andKadeDuncan.

For Heyfield,they were well represented by JamesBeha, Brayden Woodland,Tyson Birss, Robert McMillan,ThomasMarchesi,and Kyle Graham (four goals).

Due to their loss,and Sale City’s win, the two traded positions, butwill stillplay eachother in thefirst week of finals.

 CHURCHILL finished on ahigh note.

The Cougars dismantled Cowwarr at theweekend to finish their season with amassive 22.22(154) to 4.5 (29) win.

Ahigh-scoring first quarter saw the Cougars up by 19 points, as nine goalswerescored between the two.

Churchill lifted ever-so-slightly, but they kept the Saints to just tow behinds as they extended their margin out to 52 points at halftime.

As the rain poured allover Gaskin Park, Churchill somehow founditeasier to gettogoal, addingnine goals to one, seeing the margin past 100 points.

Churchill were the only side to kick goals in the final term, adding two to see the game out, victors by 125 points, areal positive to end adisappointing, injury-ravaged season.

Bailey Flanigan was best-on-ground for his defensive efforts. He was joined by Brendan Holt (seven goals), Chris Williams (three goals), Blake Slater, Ashley Di Ciero, and Tom Sevenson. For Cowwarr, Connor Cook wastheirbest, alongside Lee Bourke,AlexSaunders, former Cougar Nick Twomey, Haydn Hector,and Jackson Davison. Churchill missed finals for just the second time in 29 years. Their last absence was in 2012, whenthey finished sixth. Two years later they won the flag.  ROSEDALE had the bye. Scoreboards for all leagues will appear in Friday’s issue.

LEADING GOALKICKERS

NORTH GIPPSLAND

SENIORS 2024

Dean MacDonald (YYN) -71

Daniel Farmer (Woodside) -59

Keenan Hughes (Cowwarr) -56

Josh Swift (Yarram) -56

Brendan Holt (Churchill) -49

Spencer Fox (Rosedale) -42

Kyle Graham (Heyfield) -41

Mitchell Bennett (Heyfield) -40

Finn Stephenson (Heyfield) -39

Jye Neilson (TTU) -37

Mitchell Evans (Sale City) -37

Woodside’s Daniel Farmer (right) kicked 14 goals at theweekend. Farmer finished second in the league goal kicking charts. Photo: Contributed

Swans make finals absolutelycertain

Blake Metcalf-Holt

THAT does it. Seventeenrounds have come and goneinthe East Gippsland Football Netball League, and it’s now time to shrink the competition from eight sides to its best four.

There was some surprise late season dramatics, but the clear contenders forthe flagwillbe represented this final series in 2024.

Boisdale-Briagolong and Stratford are both finals bound, and will be joined by Lucknow and Wy Yung in the race for the premiership.

 BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG wrapped up the regular season with the minor premiership.

The Bombers made light work of bottom-placed Lindenow, winning 20.15 (135) to 6.5 (41).

It wasn’t whatwas suspected out of the gate,the Cats holding firm making Boisdale-Briagalong workfor every possession which resulted in a miniscule lead of one-point by quarter time at Boisdale.

The Bombers reasserted their dominance upon that sluggish start, returning to the football that has them as the outright favourite for the

EASTGIPPSLAND

Saturday,August 24

Boisdale (1st) vs Lucknow (2nd) ELIMINATION FINAL

Sunday,August 25

Wy Yung (3rd) vs Stratford (4th) PRELIMINARYFINAL

Saturday,August 31 at Lindenow

Loser QF vs winner EF GRAND FINAL

Saturday,September 7

premiership simply on the most recent form alone. Boisdale-Briagalongentered the main break ahead 6.8 (44) to 2.4 (16).

Awin was all that was required from the Bombers to hold top spot over Lucknow, but they continued to impress like that of their second quarter brilliance andadded afurther eightgoals to Lindenow’s two, leaving the result in hand without question.

Thomas Jolly was best afield for the winners with five goals, along with heavy support from Daniel Johnson, Jackson Glenane, Matthew Wilkinson (five goals), ShaquilleCoridasand Billy Marshall.

The Cats foughthard to the final siren, showing that they deserved ahigher spot on the ladder come season’s end on effort alone.

Lindenow had greatplay from Lucas Lakay,Lewis Roberts, Alexander Stanton, Noah Rutherford, Justin Gould and David Donchi.

 STRATFORD abused Paynesville ever so badly on the eve of finals.

The Swans combatted their recent, yet short slump to earn afinals placement after walloping Paynesville 38.19 (247) to 3.3 (21).

Stratford had to win and rely on Orbost Snowy Rovers losing to play finals.

Up by 47 points and then 112 points at halftime

EASTGIPPSLAND EAS IPPSLAND

SENIOR LEADING GOALKICKERS 2024

Jack Betts (WyYung)- 53

Jim Reeves (Bois-Briag) -. 50

Hamish Nettleton (OSR) -. 43

PeterHarrison (Lindenow) -. 42 (bottomside)

John Gooch(Lucknow) -. 41

TomHudson (Lakes Entrance) -. 41

Lachlan Fenner (OSR) -. 35

William Webb (Stratford) -. 31

Jackson Smith (Lucknow) -. 31

Sam Bedggood (Bois-Briag) -. 27

made it all but clear where the game was headed for the Swans.

Jack Bacon booted 14 goals in the seismic win for Stratford, while Ryan Thatcher kicked five.

 LUCKNOW spoiled Orbost’s party.

The Magpies came home 17.6 (108) to 9.10 (64) winners, knocking the Bluesout of finals contention

OSR understood what was needed, and jumped the gun, going into quarter time ahead 4.5 (29) to 1.0 (6).

The Blues were still in front at the main break, but only just, by three points.

Lucknow then held OSR to one goal upon the third quarter,and booted4.3 (27) to placethemselves 15 points ahead.

The Blues simply ran out of gas by the time the fourth quarterarrived, exerting all theirbest tricks in the first half and ultimately only managed two goals in the second half which was their downfall.

Andrew Nelson earned the best-on-ground honours for the Magpies, followedbyRyan Halford, Brenden Flinn (three goals), Jesse Glassbrow, Jackson Smith (four goals) and Glen Perkins.

Orbost, who in the lastfour weeks alonereignited their season upon some significantvictories, were unable to maintain their recentrun and

were outdone by amuch superior team with high aspirations.

 WY YUNG can do it.

Given how the East Gippsland finals are shaping, it isn’ta massive statement to say aside sitting outside the top two and without adouble chance cushion can go all the way.

To be fair, the last time this occurred in the league was back in 2015when Lindenow made the run intothe bigdance,onlytobedowned by Wy Yung. It stillismore than possible, especially given how close the top three sides of Boisdale-Briagalong, Lucknow and Wy Yung have been all season, trading places left right and centre. The Tigers dealtone final major blow, laying the smackdown on LakesEntrance, 28.10 (178) to 3.6 (24).

Wy Yung kicked 15 goals in the second half, statisticallyperforming better than in their earlier start, with only aone-goal blemish the other end of the ground. Jack Betts was best man on deck for the Tigers with 13 goals, followed by Harry Kellow, Nathan Dennison,NormanBetts,Bradley Daniel and Thomas Stephenson.

PSLAND

NETBALL FINALS SCHEDULE NORTHGIPPSLAND

Saturday,August 24 at Yallourn

vs Heyfield (3rd)

Sunday,August 25 at Rosedale Woodside (4th) vs TTU (5th) SECOND SEMI FINAL

Saturday,August 31 at Sale City Sale City (1st) vs winner of QF FIRST SEMI FINAL

Sunday,September 1atGlengarry LoserofQFvswinnerofEF PRELIMINARYFINAL

Saturday,September 7atHeyfield

Hillclimbactiononthis Sunday

MAFFRA And District Car Club will hold Round 6ofthe Boisdale Hillclimb Series this Sunday (August 25), with aLong Track Day Meeting.

This event follows Round 5held recently at the BoisdaleHillclimbTrack, which waspart of the statewide Autocross Series known as VCAS.

More than 70 drivers –both local and from across Victoria, lined up to race against the clock on the gravel race track.

Withmostcompetitors having at least eight 'runs' for the twilightmeeting, it was MADCC president Anthony Kovco who won the event outright, with an aggregate total of 174.71 seconds in his buggy. Fastest junior driver wasRiley Callow with 193.15 seconds, and Ladies Class winner was Britney Jones with 200.95secondsaggregate total. Racing will commence at 10am this Sunday, with free entry to all spectators at the Boisdale Hillclimb Track,located at 239Boisdale/Newry Road, Boisdale.

Akiosk will also be open throughout the event. Further information about the MaffraAnd

District Car Club and the Boisdale Hillclimb is available at www.madcc.com.au.

Round 5First to Third(Autocross) Class winners as follows;

Class C:M.Bumpstead 201.66, T.Brown 202.95, A.Millsom 203.16

Class D:F.Cannon 189.23, J.Forsyth 191.90, Rod Cannon 195.17

Class E:B.Vandongen 199.01,K.Wain 201.61,C.DuVe 203.11

Class J:R.Callow 193.15, C.Gellie 199.95, H.Myers 200.49

Class L:B.Jones 200.95, K.Vallence 200.95, K.Tormey 205.95

Class P:I.Matthews 204.96, C.Haagsma 206.98, D.Clutterbuck 214.04

Class S:A.Kovco 174.71,M.Healy 177.21,D.Bridle 188.24

Class W:G.Scott 183.80, R.Gay 187.16,A.Hollier 191.03

Saturday,August

Sunday,August 25

Boisdale-Briagolong (3rd) vs Orbost Snowy Rovers (4th) PRELIMINARYFINAL

Saturday,August 31 at Lindenow LoserQFvswinner

The Bluesmobile in action at Boisdale Hillclimb Track. Photo: Contributed

No foregone conclusion after epic

Liam Durkin

ARE we seeing the greatest season of all time right before our eyes?

Another scarcely believable round of the Gippsland League at the weekend left the competition with three ‘live’ games heading into the final round.

Morwell, Wonthaggi and Sale will all head into Round 18 with last round anxiety, as any number of possibilities are on the cards to determine their finals fate.

Finals may not be determined until literally the lastkickofthe regular season, in whatisbeing described as the most competitive year in the league’s history.

Those takingpartmay notappreciateitnow, but in time, historians may well look back on the Gippsland League 2024 in the same way the 2005 Ashes are remembered. There is adocumentary in this season.

IT can happen to anyone.

Even aVFL player.

Confronted with akick of barely 40 metres after the siren, and needingany score to win, Sale's Cody Henness fluffed his set shot badly, hooking the ball out on the full against Morwell.

The ball floated over the boundary line in front of the clubrooms at Morwell Recreation Reserve, leaving disbelieving onlookersdazed, andthe scoreboard reading 13.9 (87) apiece.

It was the firsttimethe Magpiesand Tigers had played in adraw.

The reactions however were stark. The result was almost every bit awin for Morwell, who took two points to stay inside the top five by half-a-game, while Sale were arguably the greater losers in more ways than one.

The odds wouldhave appeared every bit in Sale’s favour as the siren blew when Henness was running in, but now, the Magpies find themselves anchored in sixth position and two points adrift with just one

gameleft.Incredibly,this wasthe seconddraw Morwell has played in this season, on the very same ground.

By absolutesheercoincidence, and adding to what has beena season filledwith mystical elements, theumpiring trio of Steve Esler, Scott Moorhouse and Dan Swallow has also been exactly the same for both draws involving Morwell.

The Tigersmade mostofthe early running, kicking four goals to one in the opening term.

Sale then had its turn kicking with the scoring end, and went into the halftimebreak ahead by five points.

The consequence of the Magpies registering 6.7 (43) to 6.2 (38) by this stage was not yet known, norwould it be until the very last play.

Morwell took anine point lead heading into the last, setting up apulsating final term.

Sale had theideal start, kicking two goals inside the firstthree minutes. The first came from Jarrod Freeman finding an uncontested mark inside 50,

and then playing-coach Jack Johnstone snapping truly to give the Magpies back the lead. Johnstone’s major made it 10 lead changes for the game, beforeastring of threemisses from Morwell added to their frustrations.

Tiger’s livewire Brandon McDonald converted at the 11-minute mark, takingMorwelltoafive pointlead.

McDonald had been involved in some friendly fire only minutes earlier, cleaning up teammate and poster boy Tyler Hillier in amarking contest. The intensity may have led to some critical lapses, as Sale got back the lead after acoach killer deep in defencesaw Freeman all on his own and goal side after three Morwell players flew to spoil the same ball.

Hiller hit the post at the 15-minute mark, tying things up once again.

Continued -Page27