EAGLES SOAR IN C GRADE
Council set for new look
Stefan Bradley
THE ballot lines haveofficially been drawn for the Wellington Shire Council elections,with16candidates putting their name forward across the three wards. The random ballot was drawn by the Victorian ElectoralCommission last Wednesday morning at the Wellington Shire election office on the former Fulham TAFE campus.
Four of the currentninecouncillors have opted not to run -mayor Ian Bye, deputy mayor Gayle Maher, Carolyn Crossley and Jill Wood will not appear on aballot. ScottRossetti, John Tatterson,Garry Stephens, Marcus McKenzie and Carmel Ripperare the current councillors asking voters to give them another term.
Thereare threewards -Central, Coastaland Northern-and each willsee three candidates elected. You will vote for the candidates in your ward only. Up against Mr Rossettiinthe Central Ward will be Jaocb Velduizen, who has been endorsed by the Libertarian Party, teacher and small business ownerLiz Foat, andsmall businessownerGeoff Wells.
Mr Stephensand Mr McKenzie are seeking re-election in the Coastal Ward, and are running against Tarraville residentRobin Sidebotham,Rosedale Neighbourhood House chairman CatherineBannerman,speechtherapy assistantand former teacherCindy Madeley, and Carrajung resident Paul Mayer.
In the Northern Ward, incumbent councillors Mr Tattersonand Ms
Ripperwill be against electrician Edward Lowe, Maffra resident Christos Iliopoulos, former Defence member KevinChristensen, and youthworker Cameron “Jamie” Hogan.
All candidates present at the ballot draw last Wednesday were in cheerful spirits,matching the sunnyday outside. All expressed excitementabout the upcomingelection and were keen to represent their communities and work with the other councillors.
There are an estimated 43,875 voters in Wellington Shire,with an approximateratio of 4875 votersper councillor. WellingtonShireisamong 10 Victorian councils, including four in Gippsland, that will have ward boundaries altered for the 2024council elections aftera review by the VEC.
Impacting nineper cent of voters, 1370
Offshore wind powers aheadwith IberdrolaAustralia
Gippsland’s clean energyindustryhas comealong wayinthe past few yearsasthe region lookstocontinueits tradition of supplyingVictoria’s electricity. Twoyearsago,the Gippsland NewEnergyConference in Sale drew 200 people. This month 800attended, attracting many new visitors to the region.
In July of this yearIberdrola Australia wasawarded an offshore wind feasibility licence,which supportsseven yearsofdevelopingfeasibility including environmental studies, consents, and approvals
Offshore wind will contributetothe energy shift,deliveringclean energyand regional development through communitybenefitmodels includingscholarshipsand apprenticeship support,and industryeconomic participation. With significantemployment demand during construction and operations, offshore wind will providebothskilled andunskilled jobs andcareeropportunities. We’ve alreadybegun hiring localpeopleinlocal jobs as part of ourengagement team. At Iberdrola Australia we combinelocal experience andglobalexpertise
We’ve been aleading developer in Australia for20years, initiallyasInfigen Energy, then joiningthe globalIberdrola groupin2020. Gippsland’s wind is world-class due to beingstrong andconsistent, especiallyatnight. Offshorewindfarms here will produce huge amountsof vitalnighttime energy. OurAuroraGreen offshorewindproject will be locateda minimumof 25 kilometresoffshorewith themosteastern pointoff thecoast from Seaspray. When constructed, Aurora Green will have capacityofupto threegigawatts,with enoughcleanenergytopower morethantwo million homes. Checkout howwe’ve beencollaboratingwith othercommunities who host ourassets,and ourprojectslooking afterWedge-tailedeagles, Gang Gangsand GlossyBlack Cockatoos in our Sustainability Report on ourwebsite. We look forwardtobeing part of the Gippsland communityand delivering ABrighter Future!
fromthe current Central Ward and 2592 from theNorthern Wardwill vote within amodified Coastal Ward in October.
The Central Ward includes Sale, Wurruk, Bundalaguah and Meerlieu, whileMaffra, Heyfield, Stratford and the High Country are in the Northern Ward.Rosedale, Longford and Denison areamong the localities which are now in the Coastal Ward, alongside Yarram, Seaspray andLoch Sport.
You can check out the map with the wards at maps.vec.vic.gov.au/
The election will be conducted entirely by mail. Starting October 7, ballotpacks will be sent out to all enrolled voters containing aballotpaper, candidate statements and envelopes to post your vote.
Post your vote or drop it off at the election officebefore 6pm on Friday, October 25.The address for the election
office is: Former Fulham TAFE, 19 Lyon Crescent, Fulham.
The election results will be officially declared on Friday, November 15.
Check your enrolment and find more information about the candidates and the election at www.vec.vic.gov.au Until Saturday, October 26, Wellington Shire Council is in a‘election period’. During this time Wellington Shire Council must adhere to the requirementsofthe Local Government Act 2020 and itselection period policy, ensuring all communications remain fairand neutral. While mostcouncil services willcontinue as usual, the most significant change is that no major decisions will be made that could either bind the incoming council or influence the election outcome.
Moreonthe election, page 4
Maffra won athrilling Gippsland League Cgrade netball grand final on Saturday, defeating Drouin 37-36. Details, Sport
Photo: Blake Metcalf-Holt
Community corner
Centre walking group
THE Gippsland Centre has awalking group, which yesterday celebrated its first anniversary
This group is hosted by Dianne Honey, aregistered Heart Foundation walking coordinator.
Thegroup meet on Mondays and Fridays at 8.25am at Woolworths, strolls for 30 minutes around the centre.
Police remembrance
ASERVICE marking National Police RemembranceDay will be held at St Paul's AnglicanCathedral, Sale, on Friday,September 27, from 10am.
EachSeptember, National Police Remembrance Day honoursthe dedicated police officers whohave died serving their community It also allows Victoria Policeand the community to pay their respects to police employees who have lost their lives over the previous 12 months through illness or other circumstances.
Drive atrain
HAVE you ever wanted to drive atrain?
Your chance will come later this month when the Robert Kett Victorian Model Railway Museum and Bond Street Event Centre, Sale, present an opportunity to learn how to drive a 1/12th scale model of aTait Suburban Electric Passenger Train.
For $5, attendees will be taught how to drive the train. Successful drivers will receive a certificate.
The models were built by Robert Kett (Dec.) in the 1950s, and have beenmaintainedand are now part of the museum.
Agoods locomotive and goodsvehicles will
also be on display. David Kett will be available to answer questions about the models.
The event will be held at the Bond StreetEvent Centre on Friday from 2.30pm to 5.00pm, and Saturday from 9am to noon.
For more information phone David on 5182 8770.
Heyfield market
HEYFIELD Community Market will be held on Saturday, October 5, from 8am at John Graves Memorial Park, Temple St, opposite Heyfield Primary School.
Cakes, baked goods, Devonshire teas, barbecued food, books and clothes will be among the variety of goods available to buy.
New stallholders are welcome.
For more information phone Ray on 5148 3408.
Ute showand shine
THE September RotaryClubofMaffra Community Market had to be cancelled because of bad weather, but the Ute Show and Shine will be held at the October market on Sunday, October 6.
Utes need to be registeredbyemailing sherrell_m@hotmail.com
There are prizes for the best utes, or just come along and admire them all.
The usual market stalls will be there too, with various food options and the Rotary Community Barbecue run by Stratford Primary School grade six graduation team.
The event will be held from 9am to 12.30pm at the Island Reserve behind Woolworths in Maffra. Utes drive in from McMahon Drive.
Asian fairatshow
THE food and entertainment court at this year's Maffra Show will celebrate Asian culture and food.
“With such alarge population of people living aworking in the Maffra Community from an Asian background, we wanted to celebrate these wonderful cultures,"food and wine coordinator Connie Dwyer said.
She said the dome will come alive with large decorative instillation made by Maffra primary schools and put together by local artistMaria Fitzgerald. There will be cooking demonstrations, cooking competitions, school cooking Asian style, free origami and lantern making, food from arange of vendors including three Asian style, Teaser bubble teas, BlueGables wine and Maffco Brewery tastings.
"We are excited about our range of music this year starting with gentle tones of Maffra Strings andMaffra Choir. Then at lunch we are featuring StellaBromich followed by GaryRose duo and starting at 4(pm) into the evening the popular ThreeChain Rd band will play country tones," Ms Dwyer said.
"To entertain the children the Wacky Wombat and other rovingentertainment.Remember Children under 18 againhavefree entry for year’s show,” she said.
To follow preparations and for additional information follow the Maffra Agricultural Show on Facebook. The Maffra Show will take place from October 25-27 this year.
Church centenary
AN invitation is extended to the community and former parishioners to celebrate the centenary of St George’sAnglican ChurchatBoisdale, formerly St Patrick’s Llowalong, with aservice on this Sunday at 10am.
Those joining the celebration are asked to wear something relevant to the 1920’s. But hats, gloves and scarves will be available.
Morning teawill be served following the service.
In 1920 abequest was made to Bishop Cranswick when he attended the LambethConference in England. The mother of ayoung soldier who died in World War 1, donated £100 for achurch to be built in aSoldierSettlementarea in Australia in memory of 2nd Lieutenant Claude Mackay, a British Soldier and for other soldierswho gave their lives in WW1.
Llowalongwas chosenasthe site foranew church and with the support of Rev. Adenayof the Stratford parish and returnedsoldiers from theareathe church was built and dedicated on August 24, 1924. The church was originally to be calledStAndrew’s, but was changed to St Patrick’s at the last minute.
Followinga decline in the number of families on the Llowalong Soldier Settlement Estatein
the 1950s and with the blessing of the Llowalong community,the building was re-located to Boisdale in 1953 on land donated by the Harvey family. Abuilding fund was established and supported by the local community. ChurchWardens and members of the Vestry Committee including Albert Fixter, Ivan Morley, John Roberts, Harry Roberts and Archdeacon Benn were instrumental in the relocation and acomplete renovation of the church. It was officially opened by the Bishop of Gippsland, Dr D.B. Blackwood on December 9, 1953 with acongregation of one hundred and sixty well-wishers.
St George’sispart of the Anglican Parish of Maffra.
The church building has had many improvements over the years and continues to be valued by the local community. Thespecial service on Sunday willalsoacknowledge LieutenantClaude Mackay and our local soldiers who did not return from WW1.
With thanks to Helen Montague, Warden, St George’s Anglican Church, Boisdale, who submittedthis article.
The foodand entertainment court at this year’s Maffra ShowwillcelebrateAsian cultureand food.
One driver,two carsimpounded
Items stolen from ute BETWEEN September 12 and 13, awhite ute was left on the side of the Bairnsdale-Dargo Rd in the Cobbannah area.
AMALE has had asecond car impounded in as many weeks.OnThursday night Sale Police while performing patrols of the Sale CBD, intercepted a 22-year-old Sale man drivingavehicle on York St. Policeimpounded the vehicle after checks identified the male had adisqualified driver’s licence. This was the secondvehicle the male has had impounded in twoweeks for driving while disqualified. He will be summonsed to the Sale Magistrates Court for numerous driving offences.
During this time unknown people have gone through the vehicle and stolen multiple items.
Anyone with information or dash cam footage which may help police has been asked to phone Senior Constable Finch at the Maffra Police Station on 5147 1026.
Stolen
bikes ON July14, between 11pmand 7am, unknown alleged offenders have attended at aproperty address on Raglan St, Sale.
According to police, to gain access to the property, they scaled alarge front fence and stole three bikes from the front yard.
Remembering Kilmany Park
APLAQUE, honouring the boys who lived at the Kilmany Park FarmHomenearSale, was officially unveiled in Sale on September 14.
The ceremony was attended by Moderator of the UnitingChurch Synod of Victoria, Rev. David Fotheringham, and Uniting VicTas chief executive Bronwyn Pike, as well as men who lived at Kilmany Parkand their families.
The home,atWurruk,was run by the Presbyterian Church and nearly1000boys lived therefrom 1925 to 1977.
The plaque wascreated by former residents of KilmanyPark to acknowledge and remember their experience, with the support of Uniting Heritage Service.
The plaqueislocated on the groundsofStColumba's Uniting Church, on the corner of Raymond and Macalister St, Sale.
STRATFORD
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Photos:Contributed
Council election: what you need to know
VOTING in the Wellington Shire election is by post only.
Ballotpacks will be mailedtoall enrolled voters from Monday, October 7.
Ballot packs will contain aballot paper, candidate statements, aballot paper envelope to place the vote in and areply-paid envelope for your ballot paper envelope to go in.
Voters who are blind or have low vision can phone 131 832 for assistance.
When voting, follow the instructionsin the ballot pack, and make sure the vote is posted or dropped off at the election office before 6pm on Friday, October 25.
Candidate statements can be found on the Victorian Electoral Commission website, www.vec.vic.gov.au,and will be published in the Gippsland Times on Tuesday, October 8.
People who will be away from home between October 7and 25 maystill be able to vote. Voters can ask for aballot pack to be sent to an alternativeaddress or they maybeabletovote at the election office. For more information visit theWellington Shire electionoffice, which is located at the former TAFE Gippsland Fulham campus at 19 Lyon Crescent.
People on the electoral roll who do not vote risk receiving afine.
All postal votes to be received by the VEC by noon on Friday, November 1, with results of the election to be declared on Friday, November 15.
Members of the new council will take their oath or affirmation of office and elect anew mayor and deputy mayor during aspecial council meetingonMonday, November 18. The first ordinary meeting of the new council will be held the following day.
Wellington Shireelection candidates
Wellington Shireis s split into three wards. After areviewthis y year, Longfordand R Rosedale arenow in the Coastal Ward, a along with localities aroundYarram and a along the 90 Mile B Beach.
T The Central Ward takes in Sale, Wurruk a and northern side o ofLake Wellington, w while Maffra, Stratford, Heyfield a and the High Country are in theNorthern W Ward.
FEDERAL Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has announced copies of the official portraits of King CharlesIII and Queen Camilla from Buckingham Palace are available for collection at his electorate offices.
“My office has received asupply of official portraits of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla, which are available to pick up from my offices in Sale and Traralgon,” Mr Chester said.
“I know alot of community groups have been waiting for aportrait for their halls and meeting rooms.”
Anyone wanting acopy of the official portraits but are unable to attendMrChester’s Sale or Traralgon offices can email darren. chester.mp@aph.gov.au
The King and Queen will visit Australia next month, when the couple will hold a number of engagements across Sydney and Canberra from October 18 to 23. It will be the firsttimeareigning monarch has touched down in Australia since the late Queen Elizabeth II’s trip in 2011.
Federal Member forGippslandDarren Chester hascopies of theofficial portraits of KingCharlesIII and Queen Camillaavailablefor collection at his electorate officesinSaleand Traralgon. Photo: Contributed
Timestofairfor all candidates
WITH the deadline for nominations passing and the draw of positions on the ballot papers held, Wellington Shire is officially in an election period.
As partofour efforts to inform the public this election, the Gippsland Times is planning to publish an overview of the candidates just after ballot packsare sent to voters early next month.
All candidatesare being invited to provide a statement along with aheadshot photograph.
As should be expected from any mediaoutlet, the Gippsland Times intends to treat all candidates fairly during the campaign.
We have published media releases from candidates in recent weeks, and will continue to offer that opportunity, but the publication releases will be at the discretion of myself.
Letters to theeditorwill continue as normal, however Iwill be using my discretiontoeliminate any Ifeel crossover as mere candidate statements or that are clearly promoting arespective candidate.
Candidates wishing to submit acandidate statement or media release can do so by emailing news@gippslandtimes.com.au
Candidates can also purchase advertisements. Advertising willbeseparate from editorial considerations.
For advertising enquiries email to advertisting@gippslandtimes.com.au
We thank those candidates for putting up their hands this election, and know they have the best
interests of the shire at heart. Voters of Wellington, it's over to you.
David Braithwaite
Editor, Gippsland Times
Image: VEC
Sevenofthe candidates contesting the Wellington Shireelection, (from left) Cindy Madeley, CatherineBannerman,Geoff Wells, LizFoat, ScottRossetti, John Tatterson and CameronJamie Hogan. Candidates notinattendancewereJacob Veldhuizen, Robin Albert Sidebotham, Garry Stephens,Marcus McKenzie, Paul Mayer,EdwardLowe, Christos Iliopoulos, Carmel Ripperand Kevin Christensen. Photo: Stefan Bradley
recently assisted the revegetation project, continuing
work at the
Wander through restored wetlands
ErikaAllen
THE Heyfield Wetlands will host abird-spotting and conservation appreciation day on Saturday, October 12, offering nature enthusiasts achance to explore ecological restoration efforts in the area. For a$10 fee, participants can join aguidedtour led by Callam Reynolds, who consults on environmental projects including wetland restoration. People can learn how to identify plant speciesand understand the importance of restoring wetland ecosystems. Funds raised willgotowardsmaintaining the wetlands.
Heyfield Wetlands committee member Mike Kube said 15,000 shrubs, grasses, and aquatic species have been planted over the past 18 months, made possible by atwo-year Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee community grant.
The $90,000 grant meant the committee could appoint an expert in wetland restoration to manage the revegetation project.
Some plantsare still establishing –240 were planted earlier this month by first-year Monash medical students who were undertaking their community-based placement in Heyfield -but the eventwill highlight the role these plants play in supporting the ecosystem,suchasimprovingwater quality, as visitors explorethe lagoons andponds. The wetlands have not always been aparadise. Mr Kube said he’d seen photographs from 1999 depicting scarce plant life.
“People used to say when it flooded, it juststank The water would stay there, and it would become quite unpleasant,” he said.
Rain washes water from roads, carrying dirt and pollutants, while heavier downpours bringrun-off from nearby farmland to the southwest, bringing compounds like phosphates into the wetlands.
Mr Kube explained the primary goal of revegetating the wetlands was to improvewater quality before it flowed into the Thompson River and Gippsland Lakes.
Mr Kubesaidpast revegetationprojects have focused on terrestrial species rather than aquatic
plants. This time, they have been planting below the water line and around the ponds’ fringes that sometimes flood. This is called the ephemeral zone.
Species are planted strategically according to their optimal aquatic environment –whatdepth they can survive in.
A1.8-metre wide,25m-longjute mat made from organicmaterial is laid over the ground, with plants inserted directly into it.
“You lay that right along the high water mark, and then you plant in that jute mat. The whole ideaisthatthe jute mat hopefully suppresses weedsand lets the plants(grow), and the jute mat rots away after acouple of years,” Mr Kube said.
He said school groupscommonly volunteered time to planting, with one metropolitan school consistently contributing over 15 years.
Peninsula Grammar School students have travelled to the HeyfieldWetlands as part of their outdoor education program, planting over 20,000 trees, shrubs, grasses and aquatic plants throughout the years.
Mr Kubesaidstudentsrecentlyassisted the current revegetationproject, planting up to 750 plants in one and ahalfhours.
The revegetation project is set to conclude at the end of December, but the naturewalkinOctober is achancetoshowcase the work done so far.
Mr Kubesaidthe guidednaturewalk is the first of many recreational activities developed by the Tourism Innovation Working Group,anew community-led group that has been formed as part of the Future of Heyfield Timber Transition project.
“(The wetland) certainly is arecreation resource. Whenyou’re down there working,there’sheaps of people that seem to be walking around any time of the day, so from that point of view, it’sreally good,” Mr Kube said.
The nature walk begins at 10am and will wrap up at noon on October 12. Heyfield Lions Club are catering abarbeque lunch.
Anyone interested in the eventisadvised to makeabookingvia this website https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1288326
Eisteddfod win for Sale City Band
SALE City Band tasted success at the Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod in Traralgon on September 8. Competing in the Dgrade section, the Sale band won the competition againstAberfeldie, Stonnington (bothfrom Melbourne) and Warragul.
Bands played three contrasting pieces with the adjudicator awarding Sale first place for its performance of Poppies For Fallen Soldiers, ahymnstyle tribute; RoadToRun,apiece in the style of the classic big band song Birdland, featuring solos fromwithinthe band; and the concert march Punchinello
The result was greeted with cheers andfist pumps from players who worked hard and played well underfirst year musicaldirector Tom Cousin. There will be an opportunity to hear the band perform these pieces at their annual concert at The Wedge on Sunday, October 13, from 2pm. The concert is aculminationofbrass band tradition with abig band sound, local talent and vibrant themes based on the events of 2024. There are featured artistsIzzie Wicks and Jonathon Kendall performing vocals and instrumental solos,backedbythe full sound of theversatile 25-piece brass band.
Esso Australia Pty Ltd (Esso), awholly owned subsidiary of ExxonMobil Australia Pty Ltd, is committed to operating and decommissioning its’ Gippsland and Bass Strait facilities safely and effectively
After delivering energy to Australia for over 50 years, many of the BassStrait oil fields are nowreaching the end of theirproductive life. As planning for decommissioning progresses, Esso is focused on safely shutting-down non-producing facilities and ensuring they stay safe throughout the entire decommissioning process.
Community Information Session and Drop-in
If you’d like to know more about activity plans for Decommissioning of platforms and pipelines in Bass Strait, the Esso Consultation Team will be hosting acommunity information session and drop-in at the following locations:
Wednesday 25 September 2024 -Welshpool
Welshpool Memorial Hall
-Bass Strait Decommissioning
-Jack-Up-Rig Well Plug and Abandonment
-Gippsland Basin Geophysical and Geotechnical Investigations
-Kipper -Sub-Sea Drilling
-Turrum Phase 3Drilling
-South East Australia Carbon Capture & Storage (SEA CCS) Project
Bream Greenhouse Gas Appraisal Environment Plan (SEA CCS)
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’s proposed activities.
49 Main Street, Welshpool 10.00 am –1.00pm
Please fillinthe EssoConsultation Questionnaire (sli.do) in the Esso ConsultationHub to let us know if you’d like to be consulted or have any questionsorfeedback.
Wednesday,25September 2024 -Leongatha South Gippsland Trade Skills Alliance (SGBLLEN)
71 Ogilvy St., Leongatha 3.00 pm –7.00 pm
Thursday,26September 2024 -Foster
Manna Gum Community House
33 Station Street, Foster 3.00 pm –7.00 pm
Apresentation about decommissioning activities will be provided at 11.00 am for the AM sessions and 3.30 pm and 5.30 pm for the PM sessions. We encourage you to come along and ask questions or to raise any concerns you may have.
Please refer to the NOPSEMA brochure Consultation on offshore petroleum environment plans brochure.pdf (nopsema.gov.au) 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 register your attendance, please email us at: consultation@exxonmobil.com
To findout more information
If these dates and times don’t suit, please contact us at consultation@exxonmobil.com or by phone on 03 9261 0000.
The Esso Consultation Team will also be available to discuss all current activities, including:
For more information about Esso’s activities and other projects, please go to the Esso Consultation Hub at https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/ locations/australia/our-approach
SingersIzzie Wicks andJonathon Kendall with Musical Director TomCousin and thecornet section of the Sale City Bandrehearsing for their upcoming October concert Photo: Contributed
Peninsula GrammarSchoolyear nine students
theschool’s 15-year volunteer
Heyfield Wetlands.
Photo: MikeKube
Levy ‘setback’ for tourism: O’Brien
THE introduction of the short stay levy by the state government will be another setback for Gippsland tourism, according to Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien.
Mr O’Brien said the Nationals and Liberals had opposed the new short stay levy in parliament as it would be afurther drag on regional tourism.
Mr O’Brien said the tax, which focuses on short stay accommodation provided through such platforms as Airbnb and Stayz will not addressthe problem it is targeted at.
“The governmentisquite rightly seekingto encourage housing to be returned to the rental market giventhe housing crisis we haveinthis state but it has provided no evidence that the 7.5 per cent tax on short stay accommodation will do that,” he said.
“Indeed simple economics would tell you that it won’t be enough.
“Already landlords are faced with increased land tax, asuite of new rental laws introduced in 2021 and new forthcoming minimum rental standards later this year.
“If the government thinksthatall those disincentives will be overcome by imposing atax on Airbnb, then it has clearly failed economics.”
Mr O’Brien said the tax would hurt many small, regional and often female homeowners who seek to make alittle money.
“Thegovernment itself says that 50 per centof short stay accommodation residences are in regional Victoria, but its bill proposal is only returning 25 per cent of that to our regions in new social housing funds,” he said.
“This is acase of Labor robbing from the poor to give to the rich.
“It will also be adisincentive for people to holiday in ourregions while doing very little to addressthe shortage of rental accommodation.
“Thegovernment needstogobacktothe drawing board with its rules around renting in this state becauseithas clearly provided adisincentive to rental providers to putproperties on the marketand rents have beensoaringacrossthe state as aresult.”
The short stay levy, should it pass the upper house, is scheduled to be introduced from January 1.
Publichealth engagementplan
GIPPSLANDERS have the chance to have their say on how the region’s local public health unit can better communicate with community.
The GippslandRegion Public Health Unit (GRPHU) has developedadraftCommunity Participation and Engagement Plan with the aim to better engage for ahealthier Gippsland.
The GRPHU developedthe draft planby gathering feedback at local events, surveys, face-to-face conversations, and looking at the engagement plans from other organisations.
The draft plan highlightsfour key focus areas: structure and process; cultureand shared capacity building; meaningful engagement, and communication.
The GRPHU is now seeking help from the public to make sureitisheadinginthe right direction.
The unitwill be keeping the community posted in how it is progressing with this plan on its website, with aformal review to be scheduled
for 2027. GRPHU worksinpartnership with local communities on arange of place-basedpublic actions including managing notifiable diseases, chronic disease prevention, health promotion, environmental health, andemergency management.
To view the draft plan, visit lrh.com.au/news/ help-the-grphu-better-engage-with-thecommunity/
To provide feedback, complete asurvey at https://forms.office.com/r/UsWFC657cK, email grphu@lrh.com.au (put "Attention: Community Engagement Lead" in the subject line), phone:51735451, or write to Community Engagement Lead, 64 Church Street, Traralgon 3844 Victoria (Ground Floor).
Feedback will accepted until Sunday,October 6. For more information phone community engagement lead Amelia Evison on 5173 5451 or email amelia.evison@lrh.com.au
CHRISTOS Iliopoulos, acandidate for Wellington Shire Council, says he is committed to ensuring every resident has afairgo, especially when it comes to accessing essential health services.
While living in regional areas offers manybenefits, it also presents uniquechallenges,particularly in accessing appropriate health facilities, Mr Iliopoulos said.
“Living in aregional location has its perks, but it also means we don’thave the same practicalaccess to health facilities as our friends in Melbourne,” he stated.
“In Melbourne, families can visit their loved ones in hospitaldaily with ease, thanks to affordable and available public transport. For us, it often means renting accommodation in Melbourne, which many simply cannot afford.”
Mr Iliopoulos highlighted the importanceofhaving afamily member or friend close by during hospital stays, especially forchildren and the elderly.
“Having someone with them is fundamental and essential to their recovery,” he said.
“This is not just aconvenienceissue; it’s ahealth issue.”
If elected to Wellington ShireCouncil, Mr Iliopoulos pledged to advocatefor the establishment of astate and federal government fund to subsidise accommodation for regional families, in such circumstances.
“When adoctor prescribes medication,she should also be able to prescribe subsidised accommodation for asupportive familymember or friend,” he said.
“This is just one of the many initiatives we can pursue to level the playing field.”
Prepare for fireseason, council urges
WELLINGTON Shire Council is reminding property owners, particularly in coastal communities to prepare theirpropertiesfor the comingfire season.
To assist with prevention efforts, council will offer no-fee green waste disposalatits waste facilities in Kilmany, Maffra, Seaspray, Heyfield and Yarram from Saturday October19until November172024. The Dargo transfer station will be excluded as it cannot process green waste.
This year, the Loch Sport Transfer Station will extend its no-fee green wastedisposal service from Saturday, October 19, until Saturday, November 30, recognising recentstorm events and to address last year’s delays and backlog. To further accommodate the community, the transfer station will also extend its tradinghours across the pre-Melbourne Cup weekend, operating from Friday to Monday, November 1to4,9am to 5pm each day.
Residents have been encouraged to reduce fire hazards by slashing grass, bracken or weeds, especiallyaround buildings andfences. Undergrowth, fallen branches, and tree cuttings should be removed, whiletree branches and shrubs should also be pruned.
The disposal of timber (raw, painted,orwith
timbers, and stumps) will not be accepted at any waste facility. With fire inspections estimated to begin in November, property owners are reminded that if their properties are not ready by inspection time, theywillreceiveafireprevention notice Non-compliance with the notice may result in fines of $1976 per property owner. Cleaned up properties must be maintained for the entirety of the Fire Danger Period. Property owners must apply for apermit to burnoff during the FireDanger Period via the Country FireAuthority. Outsidethis time, property owners may apply for apermit to burnthrough council’s website.
Permitswill only be issued where there is no alternative to burning.
Victoria Policewill actively investigate burning off in the Fire DangerPeriod, and heavy fines may be imposed on any person burning off without a permit.
For more information about fire preparedness visit www.wellington.vic.gov.au/fire,and to learnmore about green waste disposal and accepted items visit www.wellington.vic.gov.
Christos Iliopoulos
Glitz and glamour
THE Glitz and Glam Galacertainlylived up to its name at the Ballroom Sale on September 13. The gala was organised by Defining Beauty ThroughBreastCancer, acharity supporting young women with acancer diagnosis. Thanks to the community, the event raised over $16,000. Established in 2019 by Sale local Jo Francis, who herself has had three cancer diagnoses(two breast cancer and one melanoma) Defining Beauty began with the aim to specifically support young women (aged around20to45) andtheir specific needs that only ayoung woman with cancer understands. The glamorousgalaatthe stunning ballroom at Victoria Hall,Sale,was an incredible night of entertainment, laughter, support, friendship, tears and plenty of dancing. Guests were serenaded as they enteredthe ballroom by the electriccello, performed by Melbourne-based classically trained cellist Annette Eldridge. Ms Eldridge also performed aset with beats by ash, the DJ for the night. Toni McKay and Kylie Board spoke of their own personal cancer journeys, with the emotions in the room reiterating why they were all there. The event wasn’t just to celebrate Defining Beauty’s past and present, but also to look to the
future. Ms Francis announced the charity would be supporting not just breast cancer, but all cancers affecting young women. She said this change would allow Defining Beauty to support even more women trying to navigate the most difficult time in their lives.
“Wehave been successful in grantsand partnering with some incredible organisations including Uniting Vic/Tas, John Leslie Foundation and Phillips Foundation enabling us to support our community in ways Inever imagined,” Ms Francis said.
“We are not only able to support these women but are able to provide support for their carers which is agame changer in thisspace.Wemust never forget those that look after us too.
“In 2025, we will be rollingout our BraveBeauty Brunches starting in Sale and Gippsland where womencan come and connectwithone another, listen to aguest speaker in the cancer space and spend time with others who understand in some of our wonderful local establishments.”
Ms Francis described the night as extraordinarily special.
“I never thought Iwould be able to expand the way we haveand be able to help the greater cancer community,” she said.
“Announcing it in my home town was important
to me as they have always been suchasupport for this charity. They have also been so wonderful to my family when mum andIboth hadour cancer diagnosis, the Sale and surrounding areas are extremely special in the way they wrap their arms around those that need it. Ifeel blessed to be apartofit.”
Over thepast six years DefiningBeautyhas distributed morethan400 care packs all over Australia filled with tried and tested products that made other women who have walked asimilar road feel seen and heard and special. It has mentored many women and supported thousands over this period through online resources.
In October, Defining Beautywillhost its first Brave Beauties Retreat in CapeSchanck where Gippsland women will be treated to twodays of luxury, respite, information sessions and somevery special surprisestohelp them live well after cancer.
“We are always looking for sponsorship and business collaborations in order to continue what we do. If there is anyone in thebroader community interested please contact us through Facebook, Instagram or website www.bravebeauties.com. au,” Ms Francis said.
“And please reach out if you or someone you know that may need some support through our programs.”
Maintaining ahealthy lifestyle
AHEALTHY lifestyle group, designed to teach people about maintaining healthy eating habits, regular exercise and abalanced lifestyle, is startingatCentral Gippsland Health in Sale.
Over seven weeks, participants will be given advice on exercise and nutrition by an exercise physiologist and adietician.
CGH chief executive Mark Dykgraaf said the rehabilitation centre staff had delivered asimilar programwhich was agreat success with participants providing positive feedback.
“We know how important ahealthy lifestyle is as we age,” he said.
“It’s never too late to start which is why the program has been designed for people of all ages.”
According to CGH, evidence is mounting for the benefits of incorporating effective methods that promote healthy lifestyle habits into routine health care treatments. Research has established healthy habits foster psychological and physiological health and that emotional well-being is central to achieving total wellbeing.
Theprogrambegins Wednesday, October 2, from 10am to noon and will continue for seven weeks. The nutrition sessions will include asupermarket tour; cooking demonstrations with simple,healthyand easy recipes; reading food labels; portion control activities and non-hungry eating; recipemodification, and healthy eating out tips.
The physical activity sessionswill include Theraband exercises; initiating ahome exercise program; walksaround Lake Guthridge; agym visit, and functional resistance exercises.
Theprogram costs$80 and will be held in the CGH Community Rehabilitation Centre. To book aplace, phone 5143 8560.
Stefan Bradley
From left, AngieCasella,Indria Jondahl,SteveLynch, Nicky Drysdale,Rebecca Bagshaw, NicoleBrown andHollyCowen
From left,speakers KylieBoard andToni McKay,with Defining Beauty founder and chief executive Jo Francis. Photos:ShannellLee Photography
Candidates should focus on local issues
IAMwriting regarding the spotlight being placed on variouscandidates by your newspaper and hope all candidates during the election getsimilar spotlights in the upcoming Wellington Shire Council elections in October 2024.
I have looked at all the nominations across the shire and note that all seem very genuine people wanting to help their community. Iwish the retiring councillors, some of which have been mayor and on occasion more than once, allthe very best and thank them for the service they havegivenour municipality.
Whilst Isay this, Iamreminding the candidates that what many of these candidates are saying are state government and federal government issues that the council has no control or influence over and are not the business of local government.
Iwould remind all candidates that the job of the council is to look after us as residents directly and look after planning matters, the state of our roads, regular rubbish collections, our already established infrastructuresuch as community centresand sporting facilities, our very shallow hip pockets in theseharsh economictimes and lookatthe cost of rates.
Councils should not worry about the broader issues that effect the state and the country.
Inote one or more councils in Victoria in the past year or so have moved motions regarding the war in Gaza. How ridiculous!
Asmall municipality in asmall stateina far awayplacecalled Australia has no influence on that issue whatsoever. It just wastes the time of councillors, council officers, us the residents and of course the rate payer’s dollar.
The only influence on that issue would come from the federal government if they chose to do so.
Councillors should be concentrating on the local issues that affect us,the members of our local communities.
Iamglad to see that at least two candidates in one of the wards who are focusing solely on local issuesasintheir distributedliterature and in their candidate statements.
Ireallyhope these local issues are the focus of
all candidatesduring their campaigns and wish each candidate all the best during the campaign period over the next few weeks.
Elaine Bennell Stratford
CFAisready for fireseason. Areyou?
VICTORIA could be facing an earlier start to the fire seasonthis year and we’reaskingthose living in high-risk areas to take action to prepare their family and property.
The Spring Seasonal Outlook predicts an increased risk of fire to the south-west, west and northwestern parts of Victoria due to adrier than average first half of the year.
Without significant rainfall it is likely to lead to an above average fire risk and an earlier start to the fire season during the spring period.
There is an increased level of fuel hazard due to an accumulation in the amount of dead plant material resulting from reduced rainfall in the areas identified as increased risk of fire.
Grassland curingintheseareas are likely to advanceearlierthannormal in theabsence of significant rainfall.
The firerisk acrossthe restofVictoriaispredicted to be normal, noting there is achancethe fire season may also begin earlier than normal in areas dominated by drier forests, woodlands and heathlands –inland and coastal.
The Country Fire Authority is ready to protect our communities,aswedoevery year and has been workingwith our Victorian emergencyservice partners throughout the cooler monthstoprepare for fire seasonand this year is no exception.
Our crewsurgethe community to understand that fire safety is ashared responsibility between fire services and the community.
We’re asking all Victorians in high-risk areas to take simple actions to prepare their family and property as the weather begins to warm.
If you live near areas withbush, forest,long grass
Promoting workplace health and safety
WORKSAFE will host events in Traralgon and Warragul, with experts sharing information and advice, highlighting current trends and encouraging conversations about workplace safety.
Aregional roadshow will cover diverse topics including safer manual handling; supporting workers returning from injury; the importance of health and safety representatives; and managing risks to mental health in the workplace.
An event will be held at Century Inn, Traralgon, on Tuesday, October 8, from 7am, with aspecial trade breakfast at Dahlsens, Warragul, on Thursday, October 10, from 7am.
Health and safety topics will be covered in aweek-long series of webinars following the bumper face-to-face program.
The 15 online events include sessions on supporting and supervising apprentices; preventing gendered violence in healthcare; safe use of elevated work platforms; preventing exposure to welding fumes; treatment pathways for mental injury;
or coastal scrub, these actions and decisions may well save your life and property in the event of a bushfire.
Find some time to sit down with your family or householdand make abushfire survival plan,and if you already have one, it’s agreat time to review it.
It’s also the perfect time to tidyupyour property, this can include clearing your gutters, pruning branchesaway from your roof or walls, keeping grass shorter than 10 centimetres and removing leaves and twigs from around your property.
Landownersshould also consider private burn offs to remove green waste ahead of Fire Danger Period declarations.
All burn-offs must be registered, whichcan be done online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au
Stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency app to stayacross incidents and fire danger ratings in your area.
Iurgeall Victorians to visit theCFA website to learn moreabout howtheycan prepare themselves ahead of this bushfire season at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/prepare
Jason Heffernan
officer
CFAchief
Wicked waste
WE recentlyhad ourgas service removedand went all electric. Since then we have been trying to find someone who coulduse our fairly modern gas stove with no success.
At first, we tried to sell it and then give it away but even charities weren't interested.
We realise that the recipient would need to pay aplumber to connect it up, but Ican'tbelieve that someone whose stove has stopped working or could useastove in aholiday home wouldn't want avery good free stove.
It seems awicked waste to have to put it out for hard rubbish and have it destroyed.
This is my last attempt before we'll have to do just that AnnRomain Sale
The GippslandTimes welcomes letters to the editor.
Preference will be giventobrief,concise letters which address local issues.
The editor, David Braithwaite, reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of space and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.
The Gippsland Times does not publish letters from anonymous contributors.
Letters must include aphone number or email address and theauthor'shometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity.
Readers are entitled to one right of reply to aletter directly solely at them.
The views expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers,and do not necessarily reflect the viewsofGippsland Times management or staff.
Email letters to news@gippslandtimes.com.au
Landcarenetwork AGM
SANDRA Jefford (pictured below) is awell-known and successful organic farmer with her husband at Clydebank.
high-risk crystalline silica work and the ban on engineered stone; and preventing and managing psychosocial hazards.
WorkSafe chief executive Joe Calafiore encouraged employers and workers to head online to view the full program of events.
“This year’s program is packed with arange of sessions that will appeal to people across industries looking for the latest information and advice on workplace health and safety –there really is something for everyone,” he said.
“When it comes to health and safety, there is always something more to learn, so I encourage you to visit the website and sign up for the sessions that would be useful to you.”
Registrations are now open for all events and webinars, with every session including aquestion and answer segment for participants to get adviceonany workplace health and safety issues or concerns.
To view the full program of WorkSafe Health and Safety Month events and to register visit www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/ events
What’s less well-known is that Sandra’s the secretary of Maffra and Districts Landcare Network, which is seeking new board members at its October annual meeting.
“Landcare is meeting and working with people with similar interestsaround natural resource improvements,” Ms Jefford said.
“I love the board camaraderie and varietyof topics, from MDLN management and project development to monitoring.”
The past 12 months havebeen busyfor the network with anew website, continuation of the Nuntin and Licola projects, start of the Growing Firewise project and strengthening the network’s governance.
“We all can reallymakea difference to biodiversity, farm productivity and profitability in our area,” Ms Jefford said.
“We’d welcome new members and board members with avariety of knowledge and skills.” For moreinformation aboutthe Maffra and District Landcare Network visit www.mdln.com.au
CFAchief officer Jason Heffernan.
Photo: Contributed
Peaceful place for reflection
THE Rotary Club of Sale recently helped create a new garden adjacent to the children’s area at Sale Cemetery, with volunteers from both organisations carrying out the work.
Rotary contributedtothe garden and seating area with funds raised through the Race the Rubeena challenge.
The gardenwas designedbylandscape gardener Liz Filmer and features native plantings such as callistemon, hardenbergia, kangaroo paw and pennisetum grasses. Awhite pandora vine will climb over acentral arch framing abench seat.
Thegarden has aslattedeucifence made from durableeucaluypt timber behind the seating and provides areflective rest area for visitors.
Volunteersfrom Rotary, the Sale CemeteryTrust and the Trust’s Friends Gardening group did the planting and continue to maintain the garden.
Trust chairman Pauline Hitchins said the trust wasgrateful for Rotary’s support for the garden which was awelcome addition to aspecial corner of the lawn, creating apeaceful place for visiting families and afocal point for the area.
Thefunding has also enabled another children’s
memorial area to be upgraded.
In the 1950sand 1960smanystillbornbabies were buried in unmarked graves along the eastern boundary of the old cemetery. Although there is a record of burials, most were buried with several other babies in the same grave so it is difficult to mark the grave.
Anearby gardenprovides the opportunity for families to record the babies on asmall plaque.
The trust has several moreprojects in the pipeline includinganew ashes wall and garden at the north of the lawncemetery, and additional options for ashes around the billabong where the garden has beenupgraded through numerous working bees by theFriends group. These are held on the first Thursday of each month.
The trust encourages visitors,walkers and family groups to the cemetery which it sees as an additional green space for locals.
The cemeteryalsoassists manypeople searching for ancestors buriedatSale. The office is open Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm,and can be emailed at info@salecemetery.com.au
George GrayCentre to host first gala
THE George Gray Centre (GCC) has announced its inaugural presentation gala, aprestigious event celebratingthe achievementsand contributions of participantsand the widerGGC community.
The event will take place on Friday, October11, at Maffco Brewery and Distillery in Maffra, and promises to be an evening filled with elegance, entertainment, and heartfelt recognition.
“We are thrilled to host this gala and bring together our community for anight of celebration and recognition,” GGC chief executive Peter Green said.
“The evening will be awonderful opportunityto highlight the incredible work being done at the centre and to honour the individuals who make it all possible.”
The gala will not only acelebration but also achancetosupport the ongoing effortsofthe George Gray Centre. Funds raised from the event will directly benefit the centre’s programs and services,ensuring thatthey can continue
to provide vital support to individuals with disabilities in the Sale and Maffra areas.
The night will feature performancesbythe talented seven piece band The Sultanas, providing alivelyatmosphere for guests to enjoy.
Attendees will be treated to aspecially curated gourmet meal, showcasing the finest local cuisine. Guests willbeinvited to take to the dance floor and enjoy anight of music and celebration.
Akey highlight of theevening willbethe formal introduction and recognition of our GGC participants, celebrating their accomplishments andcontributions to the community.
“We invite everyone to join us for this special evening,” Mr Green said.
“It’s anighttocometogether, celebrate,and make ameaningful impact on our community.”
To purchase aticketvisit GGC-GALA.eventbrite.com
For more information about the George Gray Centre Presentation Galaemail reception@ georgegray.org.au
Gardening volunteer Liz Wakely, Sale Cemetery Trustmember David Wakely,trust deputy chairman and RotarianJohn Cartledgeand Rotary secretary ColinAdams check out thenew garden andseating area at thechildren’s section. Photo: Contributed
George GrayCentre at the Jobs Fair the GippslandCentreearlierinthe year.
Photo: Stefan Bradley
Spring racing headwear on auction for charity
ACOLLECTION of bespoke headwear, designed in Gippsland, will be up for bids later this month just in time for spring racing.
East Gippsland-based designer Eleanor Marguerite is offering 60 unique, handmade headpieces at silent auction in the One Woman’s Collection exhibition at the Traralgon Courthouse.
The fundsfrom the auction will be going to Latrobe RegionalHealth to purchase new laser surgical equipment.
The auction is being held on behalf of awoman who collected 70 of these headpieces, but she is moving to England and cannot take them all with her.
The collector-who wishestoremainanonymous –has donated her headpieces back to Ms Margueritewho haschosentohold the auction forLRH in honourofthe collector’s father who died from cancer.
Eachheadpiece is namedand hand packagedwith apersonally-written poem to reflect the sentiment of its creation.
“This is amazing. This lady was well-known for wearing beautiful designerdresses and wore these headpieces to work in Traralgon every day,” Ms Marguerite said.
“Some of these pieces won Fashions of the Field. Every piece meant something to her, and to me as the designer.”
LRH is aiming to raise $283,000 for equipment thatwill help urologistsmore effectivelytreat kidney stones and prostateconditions, improvingtreatmentoutcomes andrecovery times for patients.
It will mean that benign or canceroustumours can be removedwithout incisionsfor prostate patients, and kidney or urinary stonescan be removed in one procedure.
Ms Marguerite described herself as a“hair embellisher” andusesnaturalmaterials,millinery fabrics, crystals,beadsand precious stones to create her work.
One of herpieces featuredonthe frontofthe Herald Sun worn by British racing presenter
Francesca Cumani, while another was worn by the wife of acorporate identity to greet the then Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.
“It’s likewearing apiece of art on your head. Some pieces can take several weeks to create. It’s not just about the headpiece, but about how people feel when they wear it,” Ms Marguerite said.
“I just want peopletobespellboundwhenthey see this exhibition. Hopefully it will generate interest in fundraising for LRH and peoplewill make their owndonations when placing their bid.”
One Woman’s Collection will run from tomorrow to October 2atthe Traralgon Courthouse with a silent auction.
To donate to the LRH fundraising appeal,visit mycause.com.au/p/352856/ eleanor-marguerite-one-womans-collection
Head ‘Into the Light’
THISspring,GippslandArt Gallery, Sale, is presenting ‘Into the Light’, asurvey exhibition of artworks by renowned Gippsland artist Tony Hanning.
Mr Hanning has anational and international reputationasanaccomplished artist in drawing and painting, but he is perhaps best known for his extraordinary glass pieces.
Mr HanningestablishedAustralia’s first tableware hot-glass studio in Australia with Nick and Pauline Mount in 1980,named Budgeree Glass, situated on the outskirts of Boolarra. Together, Mr Hanning and the Mountsachieved enormous success, making glassware for department stores around Australia.
In the course of his career Mr Hanning has visited North America four times and has become acquainted with leading hot glass artists such as Richard Marquis and Paul Marioni. As part of atwo-man team Hanning created adecorative glass wall in the Seattle Police Station, and his work has since become acquired by many leading galleries and institutions around the world, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Tacoma Art Museum in the USA, and Parliament House in Canberra.
Mr Hanningisrenownedfor his intricate etching and carving of images into the surface of glass forms.
He is amaster and aworld leader of this technique, which has led to exhibitions and acclaim from around Australia and internationally. Mr Hanning’s imagery draws on arange of natural and industrial imagery in his work, butheis particularly known for the ‘cameo’ glass vessels, such as CIT.These stunning pieces —typically vases, bowlsand spheres —carryimagesof structures and strange architectures,often containing mysterious floating objects, glimpses of landscape, and optical effects, all executed with ageometric precision.
‘Into the Light’ also includes arange of paintings,drawings and photographs by Mr Hanning, showing the full range of his art practice.
Pastel drawings like Sale Wetlands show his
meticuloustechnique and ability to capture the unique atmosphere of each location, as well as aremarkable sense of light.
‘Into the Light’ is afreeexhibitionand spans overforty years of artmaking, making it an ideal opportunity to discoverthe art of TonyHanning in depth. The artist will be presenting adrawing workshop at the gallery on Saturday, October 19, from 10.30am.
Bookings are essential andcan be made through the gallery’s website, www.gippslandartgallery.com
Entries nowopen for Tyers Art Festival
THE Tyers Art Festival will be marking its 45th year in 2024.
Thefestival has grown fromasmallexhibition of local artists taking place in alocal residence to becoming one of the major regional arts events in Gippsland, attracting entriesfrom throughout the region and beyond.
Each year, the Tyers Art Festival delivers a vibrant and innovative arts event, providing Gippsland artists the ability to showcase their work and allow our many supporters and patrons the opportunity to view and purchase artwork.
This year’sfestival willbeheld from Friday to Sunday, November 8to10.
Awards for this year’sevent include the Tyers Award for Best Exhibit, Best Exhibit –Oil, Acrylic, Watercolour, Pastel,Mixed Medium, GLaWAC Art Award Drawing, Designer Craft (Textiles, Metalwork &Other) and Photography (Landscape &Portrait), Hangers Choice Award, Popular Choice Award and eight Young Artist Awards.
Studentartists aged 18 and underare encouraged to enter the exhibition with several awards specific to them having beenincreased in value, as well
as being eligible for all other applicable awards.
Festival director Peter Harrison said last year’s event was highly successful,with large numbers of visitors attending over the threedaysand 67 artworks sold.
“We look forward to seeing what amazingartworks our artists will create this year and encourage art lovers to visit this year’sTyers Art Festival Exhibition to view what Iamsure will again be an amazing exhibition and support aGippsland artist by voting for their favourite artwork for the Most Popular Choice Award or perhaps purchasing an original artwork at the Tyers Hall,” he said.
The Tyers Art Festival raises money forlocal groups, such as the Tyers Primary School, Tyers CFA and youth initiativesundertaken by the Tyers and District Community Association.
To enter, artists need to complete an entry form available at tyersartfestival.com.au
Winners in each category will be announced during the gala opening on Friday, November 8. Tickets for this can be purchasedbyemailing admin@ tyersartfestival.com.au
‘SaleWetlands’,Tony Hanning
‘CIT’, Tony Hanning.
AirForce Band in Saletoday
THE Royal Australian Air Force Band,which has been boosting troop morale and captivating the Australian public for more than acentury, is set to perform two special concerts in Sale today.
The eventpromises to be acelebration of the history and significance of music in the Air Force, offeringanunforgettable experience forall in attendance.
The exclusive concerts will be narrated by distinguished military historian, Wing Commander Michael Veitch, and will highlight the Royal Australian Air Force’s premiermusical ensemble
Audiences can look forward to swinging jazz
tunes performed by the renowned Air Force Big Band,featuring the vocal talents of Chloe Bruer-Jones and acaptivating performance by euphonium soloist James Blackford.
Under the direction of Commanding Officer
Squadron Leader Daniel Phillips, the concertwill showcase the band’s rich musical heritage and artistic excellence.
The Air Force Band will perform two shows at The Wedge today from 2pm and 7.30pm.
Tickets are free, but bookings are essential by visiting www.thewedge.com.au
Denahy returns to Valencia Hall
FOLLOWING an extensive replacement of the entire floor of the hall due to water damage, the Valencia Hall is back presenting agreat range of music.
The first concert is awelcomereturn of the popular five-time Golden Guitar winning countrybluegrass singer Pete Denahy on Monday, October 21, from 7.30pm.
Denahy knew when he was 11 years old he wanted to be acountry singer. He taught himself guitar, started writing songs and at 13 years old saw Slim Dusty in concert for the first time. Twelve years later, he was in Slim’s band playing fiddle and doing acomedy spot on the show. Aman of many talents, amaster of guitar, fiddle and mandolin and comedy, Denahy is asort after muso with many performers and also leads musical tours to Japan and Europe.
While he has written some ridiculous comedy songs, including for his hit Sort of Dunno Nothin, he is no strangertowriting aheart wrencher, but he is fully aware that his songs about insects and toilet paper hold special places in the hearts of his fans.
His latest record She Loves Me To The Moon is not acomedy release but atraditional country album featuringhis own fiddle playing, twangy guitarsand wailing pedal steel. Produced by Simon Johnson at Hillbilly Hut Studio, it includes fine playing by some of Australia’s best and acollection of new tracks penned with help from the Wolfe Brothers, Mike Carr, Bill Whyte and Evan Murphy. Denahy is afive-timeGolden Guitar winner and
is happy to have won three of those for his fiddle playing -aninstrument that has kept him in work for many years. As well as working as asideman and guest artist for Slim, Denahy has done the same for Sara Storer, Troy Cassar-Daley and Lee Kernaghan. Tickets to see Pete Denahy at the Valencia Hall on October 21 cost $30 each. For bookings phone 0439 454 428.
Otherworldly musical odyssey
BRACE yourselves for an exhilarating and otherworldly musical odyssey, as Australia's acclaimed worldmusic sensation, MZAZA, unveils its spectacularproduction, The Birth and Death of Stars This breathtaking showcase is poised to break boundaries and plunge audiences intoanunparalleledfusion of music, history, and culture.
MZAZA, celebratedfor itsmesmerizing vocals in threelanguages,electrifyinglivemusic, and innovative collage animation, invitesall to embark on an awe-inspiringcosmicvoyage, led by some of the nation's most diverse and gifted musicians and composers.
Blurring the boundaries between music and theatre, The Birth and Death of Stars is atestament to the boundless creativity forged by director Benjamin Knapton, Finnish animator Laura Matikainen, the ingeniouswriter Pauline Maudy, and the visionary designer, Alison Ross.
Guided by enchanting French vocalist Maudy, a remarkable ensemble of musicians and songwriters hailing fromdiverse corners of the globe will ensnare your senses with their spellbinding performances.
Brace yourself for an exquisite fusion of accordion, violin, shah kaman, percussion, double-bass, and guitar, as these virtuosos mesmerize and transport you to arealm beyond the ordinary.
MZAZA presents The Birth and Death of Stars at The Wedge,Sale, on Thursday, October 3, from 8pm Tickets cost $53 for adults, and are available at www.thewedge.com.au
ONE POINTERS
1 What is the only element beginning with the letter ‘u’?
2. What car brand hasincorporatedaniconic ‘jump’ into their ad campaigns since 1983?
3. The Big Merino monument in Australia is found in what town?
4. What nationality is Justin Bieber?
TWOPOINTERS
5. What is the world’smost visited painting?
6. What was Shakespeare’smost popular play during his lifetime?
7. What is the capital of Peru?
8. Klingons are ahumanoid species in which science fiction franchise?
THREE POINTERS
9. Of the comedy team Laurel and Hardy,who had the first name Stan?
10. How old was John Lennon when he died?
11. Whats the title of an animated film about afamily of wild rabbits trying to survive?
12. Who played Starsky in the 2004 film “Starsky and Hutch”?
FOUR POINTERS
13. The plant Belladonna is also knownaswhat?
14. What artist became amember of Fleetwood Mac in 2018?
FIVE POINTERS
15. I’ll give you five famous books, andyou give me the author? One point for each answer 1. Peter Pan. 2. The Fault in Our Stars 3. The Hobbit 4. The Da Vinci Code 5. Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea
Howdid youfare?
37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 22-29: Well done; 15-21: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement; 0-8: Hit the books.
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’.
AGENTS say this home is located in asought-after East Sale on a1265 sqm block, and is close to shops, schools, sporting facilities, and LakeGuthridge.
137 Somerton Park Road, Sale is set behind abrick fence with an electric gate. Inside, multiple living spaces, including aformal lounge and afamily room features high vaulted ceilings, a brick feature wall, and abar area.
y Family retreatinEast Sale
The kitchen has bench space, storage, agas cooktop, electric oven, steam oven and separate grill. The dining area is adjacent to the kitchen.
The house features four bedrooms, each with built-in robes and ceiling fans. There is also astudy that agents say,isspacious enough for afifth bedroom. The master suite features an ensuite with adouble vanity,shower, toilet, and split system air conditioning.
The family bathroom features a separate bath and shower,and there is aseparate laundry.Agentssay comfort is assured year-round with zoned central heating and cooling throughout. Outside, is an undercover decked entertainment area, spanning the length of the home. Agents say this space overlooks aprivate yard with established gardens and alawn. There is also some handy technology in the smart phone connected watering system, according to agents.
Additional features include a6x7 sqm shed with power,asink, and built-in storage, plus adouble garage.
Agents say this home truly offers everything afamily could desire—space, style, and aprime location. Agents encourage prospective buyers to make137 Somerton Park Road their own.
Briefdetails fdetails
Address: 137Somerton Park Road, Sale
Price: $825,000
Bed: Four
Bath: Two Car: Four Agent: Julian McIvor,0428084 622, Wellington Real Estate
Low-maintenancefamilyhome
AGENTS say the home at 11 Stuart Place, Sale, is located on a944 sqm block. The interior features akitchen, dining, and family area. The kitchen features abreakfast bar, storage space, and awalk-in pantry.Additionally, the home offers aseparate living room. Agents say comfort is guaranteed year-round with ducted gas heating and reverse-cycle air conditioning. The master bedroom, located at the front of the house, has awalk-in robe and ensuite, featuring shower,vanity,and toilet. Twofurther bedrooms, both with built-in robes, are serviced by acentral family bathroom featuring avanity,shower,and bath.
The interior layout also includes a separate laundry with awalk-in linen press.
Outside, prospective buyers will find a covered alfresco area, which flows into the yard. The property includes agarden shed for additional storage, and agents say there's plenty of space for parking acaravan or trailer,adding to the home's versatility The double garage, with internal access into the home, provides secure vehicle parking. Agents say that with its blend of space, functionality,and location, 11 Stuart Place is an excellent choice for families or investors looking for asolid property.They're encouraging prospective buyers not to miss the opportunity to secure the home. The home is tenanted until October 24.
Versatile centralGippslandirrigation property
AGENTS say this productive 375 acre irrigation property is centrally located to the Latrobe Valley in the west and the Nambrok /Denison irrigation system in the east.
Formerly run as adairy farm milking 240 dairy cows, the property is now used to fatten and graze cattle. Waterisavailable on the property and there is approximately 400 megalitres of underground water licence with attached irrigation infrastructure including a23megalitre turkey nest damn, two bores, an underground irrigation pipe line, ahard hose irrigator,approximately 90 lateral sprays and direct access to the Latrobe River.Fully functional 20-unit herring bone dairy,alarge machinery shed and asmaller storage shed provides plenty of options for those wishing to purchase. Asmall twobedroom flat is attached to the machinery shed. The property has a central laneway system, reticulated water to troughs for livestock and is well fenced. Agents say pastures are in excellent condition and reflect astrong fertiliser history Agents say this reasonably priced property is for genuine sale with the current owner relinquishing their farming interest. Agents strongly recommend an inspection of this versatile irrigation holding.
Briefdetails fdetails
Address: Corner Princes Highway AND StuckeysLane,
This home ticks all boxes
AGENTS say the home at 1Sarah Court, Wurruk, is 10 minutes from the Sale CBD.
Set back from the road on a 4360 sqm block, agents say this brick residence is designed to cater to all the needs of agrowing family,with living space and modern conveniences.
As prospective buyers enter the home, agents say they will see an entry hall that leads to aliving or formal dining area.
The open-plan kitchen, dining, and family space, features an updated kitchen with appliances, island bench and breakfast bar, stone countertops, and storage. There is a third living area.
The master retreat,located at the front of the home, features adouble vanity,shower, and toilet, as well as awalk-in robe, split system, and ceiling fan. There are three additional bedrooms, each with built-in robes and ceiling fans.
Adedicated study,alsolocated at the front of the home, is perfect for those working from home orinneed of aquiet space, agents say.
The home features central gas ducted heating and evaporative air conditioning for year-round comfort.
The main bathroom features aspa bath, vanity,and separate toilet.
There is acovered alfresco area and adjacent concreted spacefor entertaining. Beyond the alfresco, the backyard provides
outlook, complete with established fruit trees and vegetable gardens. Double gate access to the yard allows for easy manoeuvring of trailers or equipment, agents say and there’sroom for kidsand pets to play
For prospective buyers in need of storage spaceoraworkshop, the 18m x 7.0 Colourbond shed is afeature to look at, according to agents. Built with high clearance, agents say it can house large vehicles, boats,ormachinery.The shedis features aconcrete floor,its own toilet and wash basin, and awoodheater.Additionally, the property includes adouble garagewith direct access into both the house and the backyard. Agents say home ticks all the boxes for afamilyseeking privacy,space,and convenience. Briefdetails fdetails
Cosy cottageinBoisdale
Merino rams to $8000
THEREwereplenty of woollen jumperson show at the annual Gippsland merino ram sale on Tuesday,September 3, where the rams were lined up indoors at the new Gippsland Agricultural Centre, Bairnsdale.
The venue was the toast of the day, making a marked improvement on previous sales, particularly being protected from blustery spring winds.
There were 140 merino rams offered, auctioned alongside thepens, of which 116 sold at auction for an average $2243 ahead.
The top-priced ram was apoll from Pendarra Merino stud, knocked down at $8000, and sold to repeat buyer of almost 20 years, Rod Hill at Jarroe Valley Grazing, Strathbogie.
“Lot 14 was our first pick, and we wanted him,”
Mr Hill said of paying the top price.
“You don’t buy what you can afford, you buy what you need.”
Mr Hill said his family bred their own long bodied sheep with quality wool and were going down the unmulesed path, so were after aplain bodied wool cutter
Averagesfor ramssoldatauctionincluded
Pendarra stud, Benambra at $2630; Round Hill, Omeo at $1973; The Fringe, Briagolong at $1000; Nicholson River stud at $1430; Macehill, Munro at $1093 and Stockton Merino stud, Hillside at $1375
Luke and Casey Nicholls, Macehill, Munro, sold rams for the second time at the Gippsland Merino Ram sale, trying to promote their stud.
Mr Nicholls said they had been running the stud for five years and concentratedonquality,breeding for deep, meatyframes and non-mulesing, with an average micron of 17.
Rosedale’sScott Langley took two of the Macehill rams home, saying he was trying to breed sheep that had wool length and wool weight.
“We’re shearing every six months,sowewant those two characteristics, and that’s thepath Macehill are going down,” Mr Langley said.
Top-priced ram vendor, Kelvin Pendergast, Pendarrastud, Benambra,saidLot 14 had always been astandout,withquality,free-growing, stylish wool and being structurally correct.
“The sale overall for us far exceeded our expectations,” Mr Pendergast said.
Pendarra had one ram passed in of the 72-head
Macehill stud’s Alexand Luke Nicholls, Munro;John Freeman and Denise Willox, The Fringe, Briagolong; Hugh andDoug Pemberton, NicholsonRiver Merino stud,Nicholson; Stockton Merino stud’s Jason Stewart,Hillside; Brendan Ah Sam, Round Hill stud, Omeo; Kelvin andJackie Pendergast,Pendarra stud, Benambra, and Elders’ Madi Gallagher
offering but already had apaddock to go to.
“It’sanexceptional clearancefor us, particularly for the way the wool industry and the sheep market is.
“But if you’re breeding sheep you have to keep that quality up.”
Mr Pendergast said there were several repeat volume buyers, including the Lyons family of Wilka Hereford stud at Hamilton; the Couttes family at Maryborough; the Armit family of Swifts Creek; andAlanBennett, of Nariel P/L at Lawloit, in the Western District.
Mr Bennet took 11 rams home with him, and said he used to buy rams from Murray and Janet Toland’s Bindawarra stud at Cobungra.
“That’s whythesesheep can go into the Western Districts because they survive harsh conditions,” Mr Bennett said.
“The purity and quality of the wool stands out to me.
“It’s an opportunity to buy quality sheep at terrific value and it’s been afantastic sale in atough environment.
“It’s proof the rams are doing their job, you can’t put your ewes out of gear for ayear.”
3.
Wool growersvote to setthe levyrate
WOOLgrowers across Australia can now vote in WoolPoll24 andhave their say about the future of Australia’s wool industry.
WoolPoll is avoluntary vote of wool levy payers who have paid at least $100 in wool levies over the past threeyears. Voting closes Friday, November1
WoolPollchairmanRichKeniry told wool growers voting tookfiveminutes and wasthe best opportunity for them to define whatthey wouldpay and what they would get back in return.
“From research anddevelopment into flystrike to driving overseas demand or promoting our eco-credentials, you can have
your say abouthow much of your money is invested by Australian Wool Innovationback into the industry," he said “WoolPoll only comes around every three yearssodon’tmissthis opportunity to have your say.
“It takes five minutes to vote–you can vote onlineorsimply return the votingkit which is mailed directly to eligible voters. Voters can have their say through aself-addressed mail,email, or fax–whatever suits the best.
“Ultimately, you’ll get what you pay for. Don’t let someone else decide for you.”
Wool growers can vote online at www.wool. com/woolpoll,bymail, email or via fax.
The GippslandAgricultural Centredoubled as aram selling centre for the sale, keeping stock and humans out of the blustery spring wind.
Photos: Contributed
Mal, Luke andAlexNicholls at the Gippsland merino ram saleonSeptember
Engagement and training: a formula for staffretention
THE staff at FranklinDowns Dairyaren’tjust workerstoGippsland farmers Tania and Clint Staley –they’re more like family.
“We havetwo workers from Kenya who we sponsored to come to Australia. To them, I’m sort of like their Australian mum,” Tania explained.
“We look after them, so they enjoy their time. Ithink that’s what helps us to retain staff. They know we are invested in them.We’re interested in them as people.”
Clint and Tania found aDairy Australia course thatfocused on peopleindairy particularly useful Theysaidthatwhile it was more about how to recruit and retain staff than how to train them, it was useful in forming their approach to managing people.
Clint and Taniahave been farmingtheir current location, which is an amalgamation of three farms, for 10 years.
As well as the home farm, theyrun a280-hectare ‘support’ block, which is used for grazing dry cows and cutting silage.
Acontractor does pit silage for the enterprisebut everything else is done in-house.
The Staleys turnedtomigrant workerswhenthey were having difficulty finding local staff. As well
as the sponsored migrant workers, they employ backpackers.
It’s not unusual for backpackers to have no previous experience in dairying when they arrive.
Clint and Tania do some of the initial training themselves and also have existing staff show newcomers the ropes. But formal training is also part of upskilling their workers.
While someoftheir staff had previous experience working in dairy, they were familiar with acompletelydifferent systemthatoperated in other countries.
Learning about pasture management wasan important component of upskilling them for work in Australia.
“We have sent people on courses for chemical use, calf rearing, first aid, pastures, and milking and mastitis management,” Clint said.
The Staleys are always moving stock between the support block and the home farm, as well as gravel and silage around the place. Adevelopment opportunity was identified,with two of their young workers upskilled to obtain aheavy truck licence.
“It’s great having them to be able to move stock, silage and gravel,” Clint said.
Clint pointed out one of the most important things he and Tania did with staff was to spend time talking with them.
Research identifiesunder-performing calves
ANEW study haslaid the groundworkfor developing an early alert system to identifyunderperforming calves on automatic feeders.
The research, undertaken by Dr Sarah Legge as part of her PhD study with the Dairy Up team at University of Sydney, has found that underperforming calves could be identified from day five in the feeder system.
“The findings provide the basis to develop early alert systems for calvesbeing reared with automatic calf feeders,” she said.
The study found strong associations between the performance of female dairy calves at weaningand their subsequent performance as lactating animals.
Aconsistent weaning weightofabout 80 kilograms per head translated to higherproduction, especially in lactation 1and 2, and alonger life in the herd.
The researchfound up to 60kg variationinweaning weight with automated feeders, despite avery low mortality rate
Asubsequent study looking at the association between weaning weight andfuture yield and number of lactations in 1400 calves in aNew South Wales dairy herd found that weaning weight was more strongly associated with survival in the herd than birth weight.
“Forexample, acalfwith aweaningweightof 50kg had a17per cent likelihood of lasting three or more lactations in the herd, compared with 40 per cent for acalf with aweaning weightof100kg,”
Dr Legge said.
“Weaning weight and cumulativeconsumption at day five had asignificant impact on total lifetime milk production.”
Further modelling investigated the effect of pre-weaning factors on removal from the herd, using adatasetfrommore than 14,000 animals from the same herd.
Dr Legge said birthweight, weaning weight and days in milk significantly influenced the likelihood
“We have staff meetings monthly and we regularly have social activities after work on Fridays,” Clint said.
Tania said staff were invited over for dinner sometimes.
“It’s agood time to informally discuss things and building relationships, which helps retainstaff,” she said.
To findout more about how Dairy Australia provides support with employing and managing people,and building skills for successfulcareers in dairy farming, visit dairyaustralia.com.au/people
of acow being removed, with cows with alighter weaningweight more likely to be removed from the herd early.
The research arose from afarmer’s observation of arelatively large, unexplained variability in the size of calves at weaning. Despite uniform management and adherence to best practice standards, the farmer was concerned that calves with problems were not alwaysidentifiedearly enough for intervention or prevention of issues and was unsure of the impactofthis variability on lifetime productivity and profitability.
Dr Legge said the findings were an example of the huge opportunity to use data frommodern technologies such as automated calf feeders to improve farm management.
“On-farm records and the automatic feeders provided arich data set including birth dates, weightsatvarious ages, health indicators and feed intake,” she added.
Tania and Clint Staley.
Photo:Contributed
PLASTERER
CIVIL WORKS
Cranes Civil &Surfacing have been awarded a contract by Wellington Shi re Counci lfor intersection reconstruction of Macarthur and Lansdowne Street, Sale. Civil works include: the reconstruction of the intersection with associated kerband channel works, drainage works, footpaths, earthworks, pavement replacement, line marking and lighting. We expected to commence works on September 30, 2024 (weather permitting) and anticipated completion March 2025.
Email: classifieds@ gippslandtimes.com.au
Looking fora career changeor opportunity?
Abillboard ofjob vacancies isdelivered toyour doorevery Tuesday! Check the Situations Vacant section of the in the Gippsland Times
Dragonboating
The Gippsland Water Dragons Dragon is conducting a"Come 'n' try Dragonboating" session on Sunday August 25 from and Sunday Sept. 29, 9-10.30am. Canal Boat Ramp and Jetty, accessed St., Sale. Afree Dragon Pass for 1month, which insurance will be available on the members will provide initial instruction, you out with aPFD and paddle for and then take you out on the Port of paddle. Suitable for all ages (10-85yrs +) levels. Some paddle for personal social reasons and some paddle within Victoria or interstate. Bring afriendwith if you would like fun! We're looking forward to seeing you! To learn more about us search Gippsland Dragons Dragon Boat Club on Facebook WWW or email gippslandwa @gmail.com
Looking for employees? Advertise a job vacancy with us! email
Public Notices
Expression of Interest
School Cleaning Contractor
Expressions of interest are invited from cleaning contractors to clean Araluen Primary School in Sale, Gippsland.
Cleaners are required to attend asite inspection to be conducted at 1.30pm on Thursday 10th October 2024. Contract documents will be available at that time. Register attendance on 03 5144 2111.
All applicants must have Department approved cleaning panel status to clean any Victorian Government school. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted. Tendered quotes will then need to be emailed to the school before 5pm, Friday 18th October: Araluen.ps@education.vic.gov.au
If you don't have delivery of the Gippsland Times to your home, Tuesday's paper is now available online
http://www.gippslandtimes.com.au/ digital-editions/ Book a consecutive to get 50% off the second one. Phone: 5143 9333
ANDERSON
Neville Ralph 25/9/46 -23/9/24 Passed away at the Sale Hospital. Partner of Alison.
2025Teaching Positions
St Pauls Anglican Grammar Schoolisseeking applications for the following Secondary subject areas:
Maths, Science, Health &Physical Education, Food Technology, ChristianStudies and Humanities
Traralgon Secondary School
Full-time or part-time, ongoing
See full position description and apply at stpaulsags.vic.edu.au
ApplyNow!
St Pauls Anglican Grammar Schoolisseeking applications for the following position:
Japanese Teacher Traralgon Junior School
Part-time, ongoing, commencing 2025
See full position description and apply at stpaulsags.vic.edu.au
BEDGGOOD, Neil Richard. Passed away peacefully at Stretton Park on September 17, 2024. Aged 87. Just short of his 88th birthday.
Loved husband of Judy (dec.).
Dearly loved father of Cheryl, Geoffrey, Andrew, Rodney and Jenny. Father-in-law to Peter, Colleen, Lollie and Stephanie. Papa to 14, Great papa to 22 1/2
Finally gone to be with Mum who would be waiting to hear all about the great grandchildren. You will be missed by all of us. Rest easy now Dad, no more pain.
BEDGGOOD, Neil Richard. You left us peacefully in the earlyhours on September 17, 2024. Aged 87.
Loved father of Cheryl and father-in-law to Peter. Papa to Sarah and Daniel, Matthew and Jarrah, Edward and Brooke.
Great Papa to Isla, Penny, Wally, Lewis, Amarli, Noah, Torah and Riley. You lived your life to the fullest.
Going fishing, holidays in the caravan and spending time with the fire brigade. Time to rest easy Dad.
BEDGGOOD, Neil. Passed away 17/9/2024 peacefully at Stretton Park. Father of Geoff and father-in-law of Colleen. Grandfather to Kristie, Meghan and Sam. Great Grandfather to Lily, Huddy, Ava, Isla, Kai and Lincoln. Will be sadly missed, thanks for everything.
BEDGGOOD, Neil. 9/10/1936 -17/9/2024. Beloved husband of Judy, nee Alexander (dec.). Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Andrew and Lol.
Doting Papa of Jesse, Maddi, Lesley and Robyn and their families. Forever in our hearts.
BEDGGOOD, Neil. Much loved father and mate of Rodney, friend and father-in-law to Steph and dear Papa to Jess, Darcy and Reece. Neil was aproud member of the CFA, amaster of reupholstery and an avid fisherman.
After 17 years apart he is reunited with his beloved Judy. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal. Rest easy Dad, your work is done.
The Latrobe Valley Express has an exciting opportunity for aperson to join our Classified Team, on apart time basis.
Youwill be able to demonstratethe following: Aconfident phone manner
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including literacy Proficient computer skills
Efficient time management and organisational skills
Must have attention to detail and some design experience would be an advantage Supportive working environment.Bepart of our friendly team.
Applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Please send your detailedresumeto: classifieds@lvexpress.com.au by Friday, 27 September 2024.
BEDGGOOD, Neil 17/09/2024. Dad, Papa and Great Papa. So loved and adored. We will miss you so much and love you forever. Our hearts are broken, and our tearsfall fast. Knowing you are going to be with Mum and Baby Mia brings so much comfort to us all.
See you on the other side. Love always Jen, Jeordie and Josh, Joshua and Tia, Jade and Shane, Mia (dec.), Arlo, Archie, Kingston and baby Mason on the way. xo
BERTRAM (nee Muscher).
3/3/1978 -16/9/2024
After ashort battle, passed away peacefully at Sale Hospital with family by her side.
Aged 46.
Beloved daughter of Wolfgangand Helga (dec.). Loved sister of Netty. Cherished motherof JoHanna, Maddy, Lilly and Sebastian. Devo ted Omy to Savannah and Indiana.
Reunited with her mum. Forever in our hearts.
My buddy is gone.
Iheld your hand and talked to you as you slipped away. I'm left heartbroken.
Iknow now you're with mum. Rest peacefullynow buddy. Love from your dad xx Igently kissed your forehead, told you Iloved you and said goodbye. You were taken from us far too soon.
Iwill remember all the good times. Iwill miss our chats about your special little ray of sunshine's, Savi and Indi and joking about dad's driving. Most of all, Iwill miss hearing you say, "Hi Netty". Until we meet again little sister, fly freely with mum.
Love from Netty and Unkie Matt xx
Mum,
Thank you for everything
Mum. For your guidance, unconditional love, giving me my space to grow, only judging when you knew what was best and letting me just be me. This is not goodbye, it never will be, but acya later for now Mumma. We will see each other again soon. Love always, your Baby Girl Jo, Jo. Every kid looks up to their parents like their hero, but my mum was ahero to more than just her kids. She had such abig heart with so much love to give. One lifetime isn't enough with you, so this isn't goodbye, just see you in the next one. Madelen.
Mum, You will be my favourite burnt chicken nugget. Iwill love you forever and always. My special human and Iwill look for you wherever and whenever Ipinky pinky promise. Until next time don't be picking on people without me. Love Lilly.
Mum, Ilove you every day and will miss you. Love from Sebastian (Boog).
Dear Omy, Iwill miss my sleepovers with you, snuggles on the couch and telling you about kinder. We love you to the moon and back Omy.
Love from your Savi van van and Indi poo XX.
ANDRAWARTHA (nee Peynenborg).
Johanna Elizabeth (Anne) of Heyfield. Passed away suddenly on September 20, 2024. Aged 88 years.
Loved wife of Peter (dec).
Loved mother of Shane and Bruce.
Loved Nan of Jessica, Jackson and Ashleigh.
Loved Great Grandma of Grace. Resting now in peace Forever remembered.
BARNFIELD, Glenice. 15/1/1958 -8/8/2024
Beloved wife of Tony (Barny). Cherished motherof Melissa, Tennille, and Brendon, and adored Nan to Jack, Georgie, Connor, Max, and Violet. After ashort illness Glenice passed away peacefully at 8pm on August 8, 2024, surrounded by love.
Acelebration of Glenice's life will be held at 1pm on FRIDAY (October 4, 2024), at the Farmers Arms Hotel, Newry.
BISHOP (Ferres), Marilyn. Mal, daughter of Colin and Jessie Ferres and loved sister of Gwen and Fred Jackson (Paynesville), Ray Ferres (Portarlington) and Barb and David Fulton (Sale). Mal always had asparkle about her and it feels like the world is now not such acomplete place. We miss her.
DEAN, Marshall Ross (Marsh). Passed away suddenly at the Alfred Hospital, Prahran on September 17, 2024. Aged 47 years. Dearly loved and loving husband of Nicole. Much loved father of Violet an Abigail. Much loved son of Jim and Wendy, brother and brother-in-law to Jim and Corrie, Amy and Craig, Lara and Blake and Uncle Marsh to their families.
JONES, Neville William. (Jonesy) Passed away September 11, 2024,Mossman Hospital, QLD.
Dearly loved and loving husband of Ann (dec.) (nee Coun ahan). Respected brother-in-law of Brenda Burditt and family.
Rest in peace with Ann now Nev. "gone fishing"
Jones,Neville William. Passed away at Mossman Hospital, Qld on September 11, 2024.
Dearly loved uncle of Angela and Stuart Jones. Great uncle of John and Brady. Nev, we loved our several visits to you in QLD over the past few years. The memories and stories we will take with us forever.
Rest now with your beautiful Ann x
ROOCKE, Stephanie. The Kath Foley Children's Centre and Kindergarten sendtheir heartfelt condolencestoIain, Emmeline and Fionn on the passing of Steph, a valued parent of our community. She will be missed.
SPEEKMAN, Paul Anthony. Passed away peacefully on Sep. 12, 2024. Aged 72 Years. Loved husband of Mary. Dearly loved and loving father and father-in-law to Matt (dec.), Pat and Emma, Jane and Macka. Adored Pa to Cedar, Rusty, Milly and Pippa. Forever in our hearts. Rest in Peace.
WHEELER, Geoffrey Paul. 16/12/1957 -10/09/2024
Loved son of Dolly and Bill Wheeler (both dec.). Brother of Suzanne, Russell, Terry, Neil (dec.), Greg, Pam, and Brian.
Geoff, Without us even knowing you quietly passed away, leaving us with emptiness and words we never got to say. Your suffering is over now, your new journey about to start, but there's one thing that you need to know, You'll be forever in our hearts.
R.I.P Geoff
WHEELER, Geoffrey Paul. Loved younger brother of Suzanne and family. At peace at last. Will be missed from our family circle Rest in peace Geoff. Suzanne.
Funerals •
ANDERSON. For funeral arrangements for Mr Neville Ralph Anderson, please check our website or phone:
ANDRAWARTHA (nee Peynenborg) For funeral arrangements for Mrs Johanna Elizabeth (Anne) Andrawartha, please visit our website or contact:
BEDGGOOD. The funeral of Mr Neil Richard Bedggood is appointed to leave Our Chapel, 5Queen St, Maffra after aservice commencing at 1pm TODAY (Tuesday, September 24, 2024) for the Maffra Lawn Cemetery. Full CFA Honours Please visit our website for the livestream of Neil's service.
BERTRAM (nee Muscher)
The funeral Service for Ms Jennifer Bertram will be held at the Sale Baptist Church, Princes Highway, Sale at 1pm on THURSDAY (September 26, 2024), followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Beyond Blue. Please see our website for livestream details.
DEAN, Marshall Ross (Marsh). The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mr Marshall Ross Dean will be held at the Sale Baptist Church, 283 Princes Highway, Saleon THURSDAY (October 3, 2024), commencing at 10.30am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the servicefor the Rosedale Cemetery.
Marshall's service will also be livestreamed, to view the live stream please visit latrobevalleyfunerals.com .au and click on live streaming.
SPEEKMAN. Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mr Paul Anthony Speekman will be offered at St Mary's Cathedral corner Pearson and Foster Streets, Sale at 11am on THURSDAY (Oct. 3, 2024). Following Mass, the cortege will leave the above cathedral for the SaleLawn Cemetery.For those unable to attend; a "Youtube" broadcast of the service will take place. See website below for details.
WHEELER. Aprivate family service for Mr Geoffrey Paul Wheeler will be held.
POOLEN, Kerry (Kez). Iwould like to thank all of those who supported my family and myself by making phone calls, sending cards and attending the funeral of my adored wife Kez. Aspecial thank you to my friend Peter Whitefield "Bubba" and Ruth Whitefield who led and conducted abeautiful service and farewell for Kez, and lastly Warren and the team at Gippsland Funeral Services for their compassion, assistance, and guidance during this difficult time. Geoff Poolen.
Barry &Annette Lett
Gippstar wins for Wilms, Roberts
TWO local athletes were named the junior Gippstar winners. Hannah Wilms from Sale was named as the winner for July, and Sierra Robertsthe winner for August.
Hannah competed in the national polocrosse championships, where she was part of the Victorian under 16 mixed team which finished runnerup, and she won awards for best number threegirl, best horseand best overall junior mixed player. At statechampionships, Hannah was part of the winning Cgrade team, and won best number three, best horse and best junior girl.
At the Narrabri Junior Challenge, Hannah’s team was runner-up in A division.
Roberts earned her award after playing for the stateschools under 12 girls’hockey team at the School Sport Australia National Championships in Cairns in August.
The Victorian team went through the tournament undefeated, winningthe goldmedal and becoming national champions after beating the reigning champion Queensland in the final match. Victoria had never won the championship, which began in 1978.
Sierra scored three goals, earning Victoria starplayer of the match awards in the games against South Australia and Tasmania.
In July, Sierraparticipatedin the junior state championshipsin Shepparton, captaining under 14 Gippsland Bulls team as a12-yearold. Sierrascoredone of the team’s three goals across the tournament and was named player of the match in the opening game. Sierra also captained the East Gippsland under 14 representative team at thejuniorcountrychampionships in May.
At the beginning of the year Sierra was invited to join the inaugural Gippsland Sports Academy hockey program, and narrowly missed out on
is the junior Gippstar winner for August
selection in the under 14 stateteam. The open Gippsland award winners for July and August were Traralgon bocce players Franco Fava and Tommy Campbell. Fava paired with grandson Campbell to win the national doubles championship. Nominations for the September and October open and junior awards close November 6. Nominations team, club, special achiever and Gippsland Sporting Championawards can be made at any time during the year.
To recognisethe sporting achievementsofaGippsland athlete,team or club, visitthe GippslandSports Academy website, www.sportgippsland.org.au/ gippstar-award-nominationforms/
THE Maffra Fire Brigade are seeking juniors aged between 11 and 16 for the coming running season. This is the competitive side of the brigade, but also tons of fun. The kids will learn new skills which can later be converted into firefighting skills if they wish to volunteer.
It’s agood opportunity to meet new friends from around Victoria at local competitions and competing against other towns, while also keeping fit.
Trainings are free and will be run on Mondays and Thursdays from 4pm to 5.30pm. There may be asmall fee for state and interstate competitions.
Training is held at Boisdale St nearMaffra Secondary College, beginning this Thursday.
For more information phone or text Brent on 0476 192 825 or email bm.mckenzie28@gmail.com
SierraRoberts
Hannah Wilms is the junior Gippstarwinner forJuly Photos: Contributed
Olympian returns to Grammar
ErikaAllen
WHO better to inspire Gippsland Grammar’s next generation of elite rowers than Paris Olympian and old scholar Paige Barr?
Barr, who was born in Bairnsdale, began rowing in 2016asaway to makefriends.For any 15-yearold, rising before dawn to gear up at the boat sheds or sacrificing lunchtimes to grind it out on the erg is no small commitment.
Earlysuccesscamewhen Barr won the Junior Victorian Championshipsyear 10 scull in 2017 Shecontinued single andcrewsculling at state and national levels, and in 2018, Barr finished on the podium at Head of the Schoolgirls in open quad division two, two seats. She was Gippsland Grammar rowing captain in her graduating year (2019).
Fromthe ThompsonRiver to the Vaires-surMarne Nautical Stadium in France,Barrhas been on an inspiring journey since graduating in 2019. Along the way, Barr set herself abig goal “It must have been 2021 when Isaw the Tokyo Olympiansracing, and I(thought),‘Iwant to be there. That’s what Iwant to do. Ithink Ican get there.’”
Barr said it out loud so people around her would know, adding that it held her accountable.
For any 23-year-old, planning asocial life around training sessions, pressingpauseonadegree, and relocating to Sydney to chase adream is no small sacrifice.
But it’s allworth it when that dream is debuting withthe Rowsellasonthe Australian Olympic team. After all, sacrifices are the foundation of dreams.
“I have big goals, and Iknew that if Iwanted to even be close to reaching them, Ijust had to give things up. So, Iwouldn’t necessarily go out all the time,I’d stay at home so I’m ready for training the next day,”she said Barr reflected on what she had to give up pursuing
her rowing goals. Movingawayfromfamily and friends, first to Melbourne and then to Sydney, was asignificant challenge as Barr found herself missing their support.
When Barr initially set her sights on the Olympics, she wasn’t specifically targeting Paris.
“But Ithink I’ve really proved to myself that if you work hard, you can do better than what you’re expecting. And then Iwent to Paris.”
And then she went to Paris.
Barr was one of 10,500 athletes from 206 countries which competed at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games
Despitethe sacrifices, she told the Gippsland Times shebelieved they have paid off and she would make the same choices again.
Barr stroked the women’s eight at the Paris games, narrowly missing out on amedal in the A final.She saidFrance’sVaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium hosted aregatta like she’d never seen.
“There was400-metres of grandstands along the course,and thenoise and the media attention was just unbelievable," Barr said.
“But when Ifelt overwhelmed at the start line, Ijust reminded myself to put my oar in the water and push, which is exactly what Iknow how to do."
Barr’s Olympicdebut followedaperiod of success which saw her compete in the women’s eight at the Rowing World Cups 2and 3in2022, finishing the competitions with abronze and gold medal respectively.
In 2023,Barr defended Victoria’s Queen’sCup title. When the World Cups came aroundagain, Barr had cemented herself on the senior eight squad, which defeated GreatBritain in World Cup 2and took bronze in World Cup 3.
In her second World Rowing Championships in Belgrade, Barr was apartofthe women’s eight that reboundedinthe repechage round to eventually finish third in the final. There wasn’t just amedal on the line because the championships doubled as Olympic qualification.
As ambitious as qualifying for the Olympics is, Barr had done the work.
Jacksonamong the best
JESSICA Jacksonfrom Seaspray Surf Club has claimed her place among the world’s best in beach flags.
Jackson won throughtothe final 16 to finish twelfth in the women’s beach flags of the openinterclub(ocean) at the Lifesaving World Championshipsheld on the Gold Coast.
Jackson was among more than 5000 competitors from almost 50 countries who competed at the championships held at Kurrawa Beach and the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, concluding on September 9. Her performance cements Jackson’s place among Australia’s best beach flags competitors. In April,she finished in the top 10 at the Australian titles -that was the second time she hadranked amongthe top10open female beach flag athletes at the national championships.
Jackson said she had lined up against many of the 79 competitors over the 2023-24 season whoshe faced at the world titles.
“Beach flags competitors are strong and fast on the sand,” she said.
“I knew it would be atough event and it was.”
“I was really pleased with how Iwent and it was great to have my dad and sister on the sidelines as my support crew and to cheer me on.”
Jacksonwas theonlycompetitor representingSeaspray at the event. Her performance earnedthe club five points and equal 52nd place out of 137 open ocean interclub teams. Among the teamsfromVictoria,Seaspray was third behind Half Moon Bay and Anglesea.
Jackson said she trained with Seaspray clubmate ZaliGallagher with GippslandTrack Cub coach Denis Huffer during the off-season as she prepared for the world titles. And due to abreak in her usual trainingwith Anglesea SurfLifeSaving Club, she trained aloneon the beach.
“Surf lifesavingsportscontinue year-round for the girls who represent clubs in Queensland and New South Wales because the weather is nicerand the water is warmerthanin Victoria,” Jackson said.
Seaspray’s Jessica Jackson in action in the beach flagsatthe lifesavingworld championships held on the Gold Coast earlier this monthasshe won her way through to the final 16
“Anything can happen in beach flags –people can stumble and fall, flags can get lost in the sand –soitcan be anyone’s race to win or to lose.
“I enjoyed racing against athletes from so manydifferent countriesand afterwards I swappedmySeaspray shirt for an Argentinian one.”
The International Lifesaving Federation organises the Lifesaving World Championships every two years.
The event showcases excellence in lifesaving sports and rescue.Events include pool life saving, surf boats, inflatable rescue boats, and ocean and beach events for youth, open and masters.
Competitors represented teams from countries including from Brazil, Japan, Belgium, UnitedArab Emirates,South Africa and Spain.
competitors
open interclub (ocean) at the world titles held at Kurrawa Beach on theGold Coast
Between October 2023 to March 2024, Barr followed an intense regimen of three daily training sessions, six days aweek, focusing on strength, core, cross-training, and time on the water.
Mental fortitude is just as significant as physicality. As the second youngest crew member, Barr said she sometimes doubted her place in the eight. But she said the crew’scamaraderie helped her feel like an equal, plus some positive self-talk after proving herself worthy of being in the stroke seat.
Now she’s on adeserved break and returned to Gippsland Grammar’s Garnsey campus on September 11, delighting students from the school’s rowing program with insightsinto herrigorous Olympic preparation, advice she’s used since her rowing days at Grammarand future ambitions. Her advice to aspiring rowers was twofold: tick off training sessions one at atime and have fun.
Glimpses into an Olympian’s psyche came as Barr answered student’s questions about injury woes, superstitions, and how to manage ‘bad’ training sessions and disappointment.
She said she listens to X-Terra’s ILike the Way You Move before races because it sets up herrhythm on the water. She said keeping atraining diary can be acathartic way to reflect on disappointing performances.
From cheering on Grammar students when she sees the green and whiteatregattas to making herself available to answer their questions, Barr has not forgotten her roots.
Anostalgicwalk downmemory lane tookBarr to the gym,where she met with her former rowing coach, director of rowing Nick Bartlett and the 2024 winning Head of the School Girls crew Lucy Hodges, April Harrison,EllaGerrand,Scarlett Tavasci and Ruby Lindrea.
“I think it’s really great to see the girls rowing how Iimagine Iwas rowing here.(It’s) great to see how much they’ve improved and how much the program has also improved, and Ifeel like rowing is really taking off at the school,” Barr said. Barr is now looking towards Los Angeles 2028 with one Olympic campaign already under her belt.
“TakingmyexperienceinParis forwardwill really help me get the best out of myself for the next games. Iknow how to train better now (and) I knowhow to eat around training, so (I’m) definitely hoping to be on the start line in LA,” she said.
Centra aclass above
SALE'S Ash Centra was last week arunaway winner of the AFL Talent Leaguegirls' bestand-fairest award.
The Gippsland Power ball magnet polled 25 votes to finish five clearofBendigoPioneers midfielder Lucia Painter. Centra, who plays locally for Sale City, became the firstGippsland Power player to win the girls' league best-and-fairest.
Atwo-time All Australian at under 18 level, Centra wasVictoria Country’s most valuable playerasabottom-ager at the 2023 AFL National Championships and this year represented the Australia under 18 team as a member of the AFL National Academy Girls. Centra began her 2024 campaign in red-hot
form, collecting 47 disposals and kicking four goals in her first game of the season against the Murray Bushrangers and went on to have more than 30 disposals in six matches. Centra averaged 27.1 disposals, 4.3 marks, 4.2 clearances, 4.1 tackles and 1.5 goals per game during the 2024 Talent Leagueseason and featured in the umpires’ votes in 10 of her 12 matches. Centra was also named on the forward line in theleague team of the year. Adding to the Power's success, Leongatha's Xavier Lindsay won the boys' best-and-fairest award, the Morrish Medal, and was named in the team of the year alongside Power teammate Alixzander
Seventy-nine
representingcountries around theworldcontested the women’s beachflags of the
Photos: Contributed
Tauru from Warragul.
AFL Talent League girls’ best-and-fairest AshCentra.
Photo: Talent League
Former Gippsland Grammar student and Paris OlympianPaige Barr withGippslandGrammar rowing director Nick Bartlettand the2024 winning Headofthe Schoolgirlscrew(from left to right) Lucy Hodges, AprilHarrison, Ella Gerrand, ScarlettTavasci and Ruby Lindrea.
Photos: Lisa Baker
An honour boardinthe Gippsland Grammar gymnasium wherePaige Barr spenthours training, lists the stateand nationalteams she’s made.
Traralgon upstages Parrots to claim 21st senior footy flag
From page 28
TRARALGON responded through an unlikely source in 16-year-old Marlon Neocleous, who pulled off his best Eddie Betts impression to duckand weave his way through traffic, snapping truly as he fell to ground to get the margin back to two points.
The Maroonsregained the leadvia aplayer at the other end of the age bracket, after Dan McKenna kicked truly from aset shot right on 50. McKenna, at the ripe "old in footballterms" age of 35, had come out of retirement this year as cover when Traralgon skipper Tye Hourigan went down with injury.
Hourgian returned in timefor finals, but with McKenna playing well enough, was kept in the side. His goal came after Maskell was blindside by Cunico running off the bench to nab him holding the ball, which arguably had anegative ripple effect in the Parrots camp.
The first signs Leongatha was starting to panic were evidentwhenplayers like Bowman were simply kicking and hopingout of congestion, while Traralgonlifted its intensity.
D’Angelorecovered fromhis crash landing to kick an insane goal hugged up against the boundary at the scoreboard end, slicing the ball through at the 24-minute mark.
By now it was all Traralgon, and when Harvey Neocleous made it four in arow with acrumbing effort two minutes later,the Maroons led by 18 points. With two goals the difference at the main break, Leongathaquicklymade it one, scoring amajor in the first 30 seconds of the third term. When thathappened, there wasanundeniable feeling the Parrots would bust the game open from there, however, the Maroons stayed strong.
A10-minute stalemateensued, before long sleevewearing Traralgon winger Tate Marsh accepted a switch kick, and drove it inside 50 where Harvey Neocleous got out the backtoagainmakeita 12-point margin.
Despiteclearly dominating around the ground, Traralgon could not breakaway to alead of more than two goals.
The Maroons kicked 1.5 (11) for the third term, while the Parrots had the same number of scoring shots andregistered 2.4 (10). Agrandstandfinish was on the cards, with just seven points the
difference at three-quarter-time.
At the risk of bringing out clichés, the first goal of the last quarter was ‘huge’.
Some Maskell magic nearly led to the opening major, but his drop punt from deep in the pocket sailed through for aminor score. The Parrots tied things up when Kim Drew snapped truly on his left at the six-minute mark.
Traralgon regained the lead from the next centre bounce, with McKenna this time playing the role of small forward.
McKenna made it two in two minutes after converting from the top of the goal square, and with their lead once again at two goals, the Maroons well and truly had the premiership in their sights.
Traralgon lifted afurther gear, and couldliterally do no wrong the closerthe game ticked to redtime.
Marlon Neocleous kicked the sealer at the 18-minute mark, following arundown tackle and subsequentset shot from deep in the pocket near the scoreboard. His older brother Harvey was among the best for the winners, along with Max Jacobsen, Hourigan, D’Angelo, Loprese and Tristen Waack. Jacobsen was awarded best-on-ground by the umpires, while D’Angelo claimed the Stan Aitken Medal.
Bowman was named best for the Parrots, followed by Tim Sauvarin, Ned Hanily, Burns, Will
Littlejohn and Ben Willis.
Hamilton andHourigan proudly accepted the premiership cup on stage, withthe coach admitting he was “feeling pretty overwhelmed".
“I feel like I’m sitting in acorner and just absorbing it in, I’m sure I’ll do that at somestage over the next few days,” he said.
“Thank you to Leongatha, obviously afantastic club, I’ve used you guys as areference to where we want to get to.”
Hamilton paid credit to Traralgon as awhole club, before addressing his players directly.
“I couldnot be prouderofeach and every one of you, allyear we kept coming and comingand coming, we tweaked things and we adapted to things,” he said.
“(You are) always listening. As acoach you feel like you’re being heard when you’re trying to put things in place then we go and do them.
“As ateam, if we just go and support each other, stay as positive as we can, we keep pickingeach other up, lovingeach other,you can do amazing things.”
Hamilton may havebeenborrowing from The Beatles, who sang “all you need is love”, when he left with those parting words.
If love conquers hate, it could even be the secret to conquering the Gippsland League.
Parrots prevail in reserves
LEONGATHA wastoo strong for Bairnsdale in the reserves. The Parrots made it ahat-trick of flags in the “lunchtime league”, winning 8.7 (55) to 3.2 (20).
In anice touch, which also naturally led to afew light-hearted jeers, Leongatha’s JoshSchelling won the best-on-ground medal, which waspresentedbyhis dad and competition sponsor, John. Xavier Boldge also played wellfor the winners, as didDarcyHume, Jacob Lamers, Noah Fixter and Matt Borschman. Bestfor Bairnsdalewas Charlie Cook, Damon O’Connor, Tyson Matthews, Liam Bleyswyk,Daniel Eastman and JamieDore
GIPPSLAND LEAGUE GRAND FINALS
AGRADE: Moe 55 def Warragul 53.
BGRADE:
BOC: Alex Moody (Moe)
Eagles win athriller
Blake Metcalf-Holt
to as muchasseven goals.
THE Eagles swooped in and took out the Cgrade premiership last Saturdayinthe GippslandLeague Grand Final against Drouin.
At Morwell Recreation Reserve, Maffra secured the chocolates in aheart-pounding one-goal victory holding off ahunting Hawks outfit with agoal from Staci Scott with seconds remaining.
Finishing third on the ladder by the end of the home-and-away season,Maffra was forced to play four finals on its way to the flag after losing to Drouin by two goals in the qualifying final.
Afterbeating Wonthaggi to staveoff elimination, the Eagles upset minor premierMorwell in the preliminary final to set up arematch with the Hawks.
Maffragot out to hot startleading11-8after the first quarter in the grand final, and through portionsofthe second termextended the margin
Drouin, however, would go on alaterun,scoring sixofthe final nine goals of thefirst half, to reduce the deficit with the half-time scoreboard reading 21-17.
The Eagleswould have to be prepared for anythingentering the second half, and despite an early run for the Hawks, Maffra held strong to keep its lead at five goals upon three-quarter-time.
Drouin wasnot abouttogive in though with the Hawks mountinga5-2 runtoopen the final quarter of the season and cut the margin to two goalsoff the back of goal shooter Tess Mapleson.
Eagles goal attack Scott would answer the bell with back-to-backgoals after ashortdry period following Drouin’s scoring spurt filled with many high-pressure acts from both sides.
The unrelenting nature of theHawks continued, however, scoring the next four goals to tie the game up 36-36 with over aminute left in the game.
The ball found its way down in Drouin’s scoring end and after Maffra goal keeper Bec Berry was takenout of the play,goal defenceand captain Brooke Anderson stood up to shut down the two Hawks scorers, seeing the ball bop out of the rim and secured the rebound.
The Eaglesworked it down to their end and got the ball to goal shooter Serrin Stobie who subsequently missed the winning shot.
Scott was there off the miss though and fought through her defender to force the umpire to make acall. The ball was called back into Scott’s hands and she nailed the ultimatedecider with the siren going as Drouin raced back to the centre.
As it roared, players ran the length of the court to the two Maffrashooters with family and friends following suit,creating amass huddleintheir attacking third.
Anderson accepted the best on court medal for an outstanding performance for the Eagles.
Gulls hold on against Eagles
Liam Durkin
THAT’S one way to win aflag.
Warragul held off Maffra in the Gippsland League thirds grand final in bizarre circumstances.
The Gulls had half the number of scoring shots as the Eagles, yet still led at every change to win 5.3 (33) to 3.13 (31).
Such ascoreline appeared along way off in the opening term, as Warragul kicked three goals to just twobehinds.The Gulls looked to have one hand on the premiership cup at half-time, leading by 21 points, having kicked fivegoals to one.
Astalemate ensued in the third term, with neither side managing to split the middle.
Maffra came hard in the final quarter, but squandered anumber of chances, registering 2.6 (18). Just one point separated the sides with four minutestogo, forcing Warragul to hold on for dear life.
The Gulls kickedjust two behinds after the main break, but did enoughtomakeittwo flags in three years.
Grand Finals
Warragul’s Oliver Wilson collected the medal for best-on-ground. He received good support from Lachlan Gilliam, Harry Brown, Lachlan French, Xavier Olsson and Riley Senini.
Maffra put in amightyeffort to very nearly go back-to-back, taking the long road to thegrand final without the double chance.
Most of the Eagles thirds team had played senior football during the season, and came back in time for finals.
Tom Scottwas namedbest, followed by Matt Rondon, Elliot Stables, Sam Anderson, Zach O’Keefe and Elijh Berry.
Maffra will likely see some of their thirds players become regular senior starters, the same outcome that has proven to be achallenge for Warragul in previous years.
Despite playing in the last three thirds deciders, theGulls have unfortunately not been able to translate that into senior success.
Warragul won athrilling thirdspremiership, holding off Maffra by two points.
Photo: Blake Metcalf-Holt
on their victory.
Undefeated young Maroons edge outMaffra
Liam Durkin
TRARALGON gave aglimpse into just how bright its future is, completing an undefeated season in the fourths.
The youngestMaroons started GippslandLeague grand final day on the best possible note, edging past Maffra to win by nine points 8.8 (56) to 7.5 (47). Traralgonwas forced to dig deep, trailing at each of the first two breaks, before athree goal to one third term gave them some breathing space. Will Hamilton took anumberoftelling marks around the ground to be named best-on. Others to play well were Lachlan Pass, Hudson Anderson, Jimmy Brand, Archie Woodall and Blair Roscoe. Maffra appears to have asimilarly bright future, as its fourths and thirds were featured in grand finals for the third successive year. Best players forthe Eagles at the weekend were Darcy Scott, Lachlan Harrington, Marcus Proud, Judd Burgiel, Jett McMahon and Fabian Vera.
Watch for afew of these fourths players to be futurestarsofthe competition, or go on and do great things in football.
Moe and Maffra played in thefourths decider 10 years ago. Adecade on, Harri Sim has become vice captain of the Lions, while Scott van Dyk was named in the league’s team of the year this season. Kade Renooy, Jimmy Reeves, Luke Shelton and Hudson Holmesall played for the Eaglesinthe 2014 fourths grand final as well.
Holmes(now with Sale) is oneofthe premier midfielders in the competition, and Sheltonhas been acornerstone of the Maffra senior team.
Reeves led Boisdale-Briagolong to asenior flag this season, and Renooy has been appointed senior coach of the club for 2025.
Traralgonwentthrough the season undefeated in the fourths.
Photo: Liam Durkin
Maffra fourths coachAdrian Burgiel congratulates Traralgon
Maffra’s Fabian Vera in aduel with Traralgon’s WillHamiltoninthe fourths grandfinal.
Maffra’s Darcy Scottwas best-on in alosing effort in the fourths decider Photos: Liam Durkin Maffra fourths players areleft to ponder their shortcoming.
Maffra’s Noah Christyand Warragul’s Lucas Carter battle during thethirds grand final.
West Coastplayer and Maffra local Coby Burgiel wason hand to support his home club.
Maffra supporterswerefull of voice during the fourths andthirds grand finals.
Maroons upstageParrots
Liam Durkin
TRARALGON upstaged Leongatha to win the Gippsland League senior football premiership.
The Maroons, with an average age of just21, left Morwell Recreation Reservewiththe premiership cup in hand after defeating the Parrots 11.12 (78) to 7.11 (53).
Taking underdog status into the grand final did little to deter Traralgon, who broke away to win by 25 points
Leongathaenteredthe match heavy favourite, having enjoyed a10-match winning streak over the Maroons. Not only that, Traralgon came into the grand final having played three finals, two without the luxury of the double chance, and was coming up against asidegoing for three flags in a row amid arun of eight consecutive grand finals.
Leongathaboastedateam full of experience and with some of the greatestnames in the local game: Tom Marriott, Cade Maskell,LukeBowman, Sean Westaway and Ben Willis -all over 30 years of age andall with significant finals experience.
Traralgon had afirst year coach and ateam of kids, the result of an exodus of senior players in theoff-season.
The way the game ended, it was like the son finally beating his dad in agame of golf.The Maroons honestly could not have played much better.
Confidence and momentum proved just how powerful they can be in football,but it certainly took much more than that for Traralgon to eventually win the club’s 21st senior title.
Externally at least, the Maroons had been viewed as too young, too inexperienced and too fragile. In theend, it was more acase of too quick, too skilful, andultimately, too good.
Most thought Leongatha would be far too superior, and when Jack Hume kicked the first goal of the game inside the first minute, such sentiments were only solidified.
The Parrotsmademostofthe running in the early stages,but were wasteful in front of goal, kicking 1.4 (10) before Traralgon had even scored. Leongathawent into the quarter-timebreak with 2.5 (17) on the board -its second coming only after adownfield indiscretion from Maroons defender Mitch Membrey.
Membrey, one of the few Traralgon players over the age of 27 (only seven in total) had been kept busy in defence, especially in the first 10 minutes as Leongatha continually sent the ball inside 50.
The Maroonssettleddealing withatricky crosswind, getting their first goal at the 16-minute mark through Jordan Cunico running in for the easiest of chances.
Traralgon hit the lead when Luis D’Angelo found enough time and space to steady and drill one from 45 metres, following atimely smother from Maroons veteran Dylan Loprese that won the ball back at half-forward.
Comethe first huddle, Traralgon had negotiated the initial hurdle of not getting blown out of the water by its more fancied opponents.
Bowman slammed D’Angelo onto the cricket pitch, leaving him prostrate for some time, which was followed by Cam Olden takingJackson McMahon high, resulting in some pushand shove
While D’Angelo was being tended to by trainers, Leongatha took full advantage of the outnumber and kicked agoal. D’Angelo got up and left the
The first quarter challenge from the Maroons may have sparked the Parrots into action, as they really pushed the envelope in the second term, laying some big hits.
ground, as it appeared Leongatha was prepared to play more like pirates than Parrots.
If Leongatha thoughtroughingup Traralgon was going to sow any seeds of doubt, it was mistaken. As it turned out, it was the Maroons who not only sowed the seeds, but had them firmly planted by half-time.
Continued page 26
Traralgon pulledoff an upset to Traralgonpulledoff defeatLeongatha in the Gippsland League grand final.
Photo:Blake Metcalf-Holt Photo: Blake M
Traralgon captain Tye Traralgoonncaptain Hourigan and coachandcoa Troy Hamilton hold the milton premiership cupaloft
Photo: Blake Metcalf-Holt BlakeMetcalf-Holt
Sixteen-yearold Marlon Neocleous celebrates with Chance Doultree after kicking the sealing goal.
Photo: Gippsland League