Gippsland Times Tuesday 27th August 2024

r rom Farfrom mell mellow in ll w yellow

Local staff, residents, and their loved ones from Wattleglen aged care home in Sale stepped out in style last week - donning yellow in support of a very special cause: Daffodil Day and life-saving cancer research.

STORY, PAGE 6

Looming danger for Maffra road

Erika Allen

LOCALS have raised traffic safety concerns on Sandy Creek Road, Maffra, citing its growing use as aheavy vehicle detour.

The stretch of road between Maffra-Newry Rd and Maffra-Briagolong Rd/Powerscourt St is an 80 kilometre per hour zone, but residents have expressed concern that truck traffic drives too fast. Residents said sharing the road with vehicles was difficult because therewerenofootpaths or shoulders to use safely.

They said walkers, cyclists, schoolchildren, and horse riders used the road. Amenities near Sandy Creek Rd include the Maffra Cemetery and Bellbird Riverside Reserve. The area is zoned Rural Residential, with prospective development to come. Alocal,preferring to raise concernsanonymously, said they recently saw acyclist with adog forced off the road onto the council strip as atruck drove

past. They told the Gippsland Times that it was only amatter of time before apedestrian was fatally injured.

The Gippsland Times asked WellingtonShire Council if it believed the road presently poses a danger to people the community.

“Wellington Shire Council acknowledges and takes seriously the community’s concerns about heavy vehicle movements on Sandy Creek Rd in Maffra,” acouncil spokesperson said.

“Given the lowcrash historyand the rural environment,council has no current plansfor aroad safetyaudit on SandyCreekRd. The speed limit was previously reducedto80km/h by councilin2016.”

Residents said that over the past fouryears, truck traffic had increased.

“While council is limited in its ability to restrict heavy vehicleslike semi-trailers from accessing council-managed roads, we have requested the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to monitor

compliance for larger vehicles requiring permits,” the council spokesperson said.

The Gippsland Times contacted NHVRasking whatthis involves, but aresponse was not provided before publication deadline.

When prime movers, semi-trailers (up to 49 tonnes), or rigid trucks drive through the town, thefollowing roadsare approved bypasses by National Heavy Vehicle Regulator:Maffra-Newry Rd, Traralgon-Maffra Rd, Johnston St, Gibney St, Powerscourt St, Maffra-Sale Rd, Stratford-Maffra Rd,PowerscourtSt, and McLean St. NHVR has not identified Sandy Creek Rd as a heavy vehicle bypass, but it could become one in thefuture, according to the MaffraStructure Plan 2022, adocument that will shape the township’s future development. The StructurePlan stated redirectingheavy vehicles to SandyCreek Rd would “improvethe amenity and safetyofits existing and future neighbourhoods".

“As part of the Maffra Structure Plan implemented in 2022, council is currently undertaking aTransport and Traffic Impact Assessment to evaluate changes in the road network from new developments. This assessmentwill determine necessary transportinfrastructure improvements, including thosepotentially needed on Sandy Creek Rd, as development progresses,” the council spokesperson explained.

“Weare currentlyevaluating options, with the outcome affecting timing and delivery. More details will be available once this assessment is complete.” However, some residents argue it is already being used as abypass and that it’s dangerous for cyclists, dogwalkers and other pedestrians who use the road to get on and off school buses. If Sandy Creek Rd becomes an official bypass, then balancing road use and public safety will be critical.

Continued page 4

Photo: Stefan Bradley

Seeking rural women for documentary

AWARD-WINNING Gippsland filmmaker Danielle McAlpine Johnson is calling for localwomen to add their voices to aground-breaking new Australian documentary.

Rural Daughters,the feature-length documentary by CheekyMac Productions, will feature some of Australia’smost inspiring rural women in their efforts to overcome barriers,effect change and live successful lives in the regions.

As part of the documentary, Ms McAlpine Johnson is seeking 1000 rural, regional and remote women to share their experiences through anationwide survey.

The survey, thought to be the largest and broadest of itskind, coverstopics such as natural disasters, health and domestic violence, societal attitudes, racial prejudice, tall poppy syndrome, community life, leadership and female role models.

The results will provide astatistical snapshot of rural and regional women and form the evidence base for the documentary. The findingswill also be used to inform policy and develop educational resources in Australian schools.

“We want the voices of Gippsland women to be represented in this documentary and part of the Rural Daughters story,” Ms McAlpine Johnson said.

“We are putting our heart and soul into telling the stories of rural, regional and remote women –how they overcome adversity, find purpose, break limitations and leadintheir communities in the most unique and innovative ways.”

Ms McAlpine Johnson grew up in Longford and attended Catholic College Sale. She is the daughter of Leon and Pauline McAlpine,bothwell-known local teachers throughout the 1980s and '90s.

After 20 years studying and working in Melbourne and abroad, Ms McAlpine Johnson recently returned to Gippsland with her husband and three youngest children and settled along the Ninety Mile Beach.

“I have experienced city life and living abroad, but Ireturned home because we wanted to raise our family in this wonderfulcommunity,” she said.

“My storyisn’t uncommon.Rural and regional Australia offersanincredible lifestyle with manybenefits, but with thatalsocomes unique challenges.

“RuralDaughters is abouttaking an unflinching look at the often overlooked challenges and success storiesofwomen livingininrural andregional Australia so we can improve it for our daughters and leave alegacy for the generations after us.

“Wewant the daughters, and sons, of thisregion to understand that they have an authentic, unique purpose that no one else can fulfill and that there are people walking before them fighting for social change so they don’t have to. Society often teaches us to think small, but we want them to dream big.”

The 1000 Rural Women Surveywas commissioned by the Community Enterprise Foundation. It has been developed by the Collaborative Evaluation and Research CentreatFederationUniversity Gippsland, together with CheekyMac Productions –both organisations that are led by Gippsland women.

“Our involvement in this documentary is an opportunity to showcase that aregionally-based university can make adifference withregional communities and, in particular, advocatefor rural womenonissuesthat matter,” CERC Professor Joanne Porter said. The survey is available online until the end of Septemberand is availableat cheekymac.com/rural-daughters To request hardcopie s, email CERC@federation.edu.au

Filmmaker Danielle McAlpineJohnson is seeking local women to participate in anew documentary.

Photo: Contributed

Wear your PJsfor foster kids

PJ Day, with morethan halfinWellington.

ABETTER Life For Foster Kids is thrilled to announce its largestcommunity fundraiser, Gippsland’s Biggest PJ Day 2024, taking place on Friday, September 6.

The event aims to bring together the Gippsland community in afun and impactful way, all while raising crucial funds to support children and young people in foster and kinship care.

The funds raised through Gippsland’s Biggest

PJ Day will go directly to ABetter Life For Foster Kids, an organisation dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people in foster care. The support will help provide essential resources for children and young people, and their carers.

ABetter Life For Foster Kids is grateful for all the schools andkinders who have been partof Gippsland’s Biggest PJ Day over the past two years. In 2023, 37 schools were involved across

Gippsland, in which nearly 7000 children enjoyed afun day in their pyjamas and gained awareness of the challenges faced by kids in out-of-home care

In 2024, the organisation hopes to make the day even bigger, and encouraged local businesses and organisations to get involved and have afun PJ day.

Founder Heather Bairdsaidthe event was more than just afundraiser.

“It’s an opportunity for our communitytoconnect

and support an organisation that makes areal differenceinthe lives of children in out-of-home care,” she said.

“We invite everyonetojoinusfor aday of fun and giving back.”

To get involved, participants can register online at abetterlifeforfosterkids.org.au/gippslandsbiggest-p-j-day/,phone Lisa Abbott at 0410 407 034 or email ablffk@gmail.com

Sale College plans still missing the vital ingredient

for thenew consolidated Sale College on CobainsRd.

STATE Member for Gippsland SouthDanny O’Brien has welcomed progress on consolidation of Sale College onto one new site after the agreement of Wellington Shire Council to sell land for the project.

However, Mr O’Brien said while this and other master planning activity for the school were welcome, there was one vital missing ingredient -a commitment of funds.

Mr O’Brien said the Nationals had committedto builda new SaleCollege on the Cobains Rd site aheadofthe 2022 election, but the school was still waiting for commitment from the state government.

“I’ve been campaigningwith the Salecommunity for seven years now on consolidationofthe two campuses of Sale College onto one new greenfield site,” he said.

“We had abreakthrough with the commitment in 2021 of $3 million for master planning and I’m pleased that Wellington ShireCouncil is prepared to sell the land on Cobains Rd to help progress the project.But none of that will matter unless the Allan Labor government actually delivers the commitment of funding to build anew school.

“Unfortunately, we are seeing time and again billions of dollars wasted on mega projects in the city, whileimportant regional projectssuch as Sale College are neglected.

“The reality is Laborcan’tmanagemoney and it is regional communities and students in the

Sale district that are suffering the consequences.”

Mr O’Brien said he would continue to lobby the government on the project.

“This project would send astrongmessage to local students, their families and teachers that we valuetheir education and want to give them the best available facility,” he said.

As reported in Friday’s Gippsland Times, Wellington Shire Council resolved to sell 8.5 hectares of land on Cobains to theVictorian School Building Authority to buildanew Sale College campus, consolidating the Macalister and Guthridge campuses on to one site.

The state government allocated $3 million in the

2021-22 budget to determine the best location to build anew school campus, with the Cobains Rd site selectedfollowing consultation between the VSBA, Sale College and council.

While the budget for constructionisyet to be allocated,funding exists for the VSBA to complete thepurchaseofland.

“The needs of all schools are considered when determining priorities for school infrastructure spending in future budget,” aVSBAspokesperson told the Gippsland Times last week.

“Discussions between Wellington Shire Council and the VSBA are continuing.”

So far,about 30 schoolsacross Gippsland will participate in Gippsland’s Biggest

Photo:File

St Patrick’s Primary SchoolinStratford taking part in Gippsland Biggest PJ Dayin2023.

Photo: Stefan Bradley

Member for GippslandSouthDanny O’Brien at theproposed site

Timber Towns celebrates four decades

CELEBRATING 40 years since Timber Towns

Victoria’s inceptionin1984,members recently toured the Baw Baw Shire region as part of their annual meeting and yearly forum.

The Baw Baw Shire was one of many regions thatwere impacted by the state government’s announcement to cease native timber harvesting in state forests.

TTV vice-president and Baw Baw Shirecouncillor Michael Leaney said the site visits to the region helped TTV group members gain abetter understanding of how local businesses in the region are transitioning and the new opportunities being created.

“Timbers Town Victoria will continue to advocate for the economicviability and ongoing sustainabilityofthe towns and regions significantly impacted by the closure of native timber harvesting in state forests, and the stategovernment’s Forestry Transition Programhas providedvaluable assistance to affected communities and businesses,” he said.

TTV president, Cr Karen Stephens hailed the three day forum asuccess.

From left: Cr TomCrook (East Gippsland Shire), Cr KarenStephens(GlenelgShire), Cr Robert

Vance (Pyrenees Shire), Krystal Barr (BawBaw

Mark Coleman (Wellington

Cr Ian Getsom(Golden Plains

Rachael

Towns

Vaughn Notting

City), Cr TomSullivan(Moorabool Shire), Cr Garner Smith (Gannawarra Shire), Cr Tim Meyer (West Wimmera Shire)and Cr Michael Leaney(BawBaw Shire).

“Itisimportanttoour members that we see first hand these communities that have been affected by thecessationofnative timber harvesting,” she said. “We know that it has presented numerous challenges for these communities and TTV will

continue to provide support and acommitment to these challenges faced by Victorian communities.

“It has been pleasing to witness the innovation andpositive changes that some businesses have madesince the cessationofnativetimberharvestingtotransition their business.”

On the second day of the forum, Cr Leaney guided members on atour through the region visiting local businesses and communitiesinthe area to help members gain an understanding of the economic activity in the areaincluding agardenstake timber mill, atree nursery, atrout farm, and atimber and truss yard.

As part of the tour, members also visited Noojee which wasone of the 11 towns thatreceived agrant through the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action to supportthe community and develop the local economy. Here they heard from Krystal Barr, Baw Baw Shire Council manager of economic development and visitor economy speak on the important ongoingwork and creation of new opportunities in the area.

On day three, members came together for their annual meeting with guest speaker Jessica O’Donnell from Intrawork, providing apresentation on supporting the timber industry with innovation through funding.

Rossetti to recontest for council spot

SCOTTRossetti has announced that he will be running for WellingtonShire Council election this October, with the well-known local businessman and community leader looking to again secure a position representing the Central Ward.

Born and raised in Wellington Shire, Mr Rossetti said he had always put the community first through hard work and passion for positive outcomes and hopes to be able to continue this work if re-elected. His extensive participation in local activities and community issues ensured,hewas the first Wellington Shire Mayor to ever be elected for three terms.

“My involvement in school boards, bowls clubs, Committee for Wellington and Rotary, has kept me grounded in the needs of the community,” Mr Rossetti said.

This communityfirstattitude hasreaped enormous benefits for locals with greatresults emanating from his mayoral and councillor actions, such as the initial proposal for the redevelopment

of the Port of Sale.Since the inception of the vision to redevelop, which involved the construction of a new $15 million Gippsland Art Galleryand Sale Public Library to act as aculturaland community hub, Mr Rossettisaidhehas made it an imperative to listen to the opinions expressed by the public to ensure ahigh level of community engagement and support.

“Taking the time to listen carefully and follow throughispart and parcelofmyeveryday work as afuneral director," he said.

"It’s naturalfor me to bring this attitudeand style to my council work.”

Among Mr Rossetti's list of achievements is supportofrate capping and calling for it to be extended to other levels of government, leadership in the fighttodefeat what he called“cancel culture” aroundhistoric monuments, programssupporting communities battling natural disasters, multiple street upgrades in Sale, including revitalisation of York St, installation of traffic lights at Cunningham

Caravan park tenders awarded

SUCCESSFUL tenderersfor the lease of Loch Sport and Woodside Beachcaravan parks have been announced following acomprehensive open-market tender process.

Wellington Shire Council engaged an independent caravan park management company to coordinate the public tender process.Aslandmanager for several caravan parks located on Crown Land, the council oversees commercial leases on behalf of the Department of Energy, Environmentand Climate Action.

The Loch SportHoliday Park, located on Charlies St,willbeoperated by current leaseholders Ray and Belinda Johnson, and Woodside Beach Caravan Park will be operated by Deersford Pty Ltd, and managed by Steven Priest. Both parties are experienced park operators with local knowledge and enthusiasm to improve services and infrastructure for the future.

The tender for the lease, development and management of both parks was advertised locally and further afieldoverasix-weekperiod. Tenderers

were required to address arange of criteria including previous experience, capital investment, and considerhow the businesswill promote sustainability, andwork with the local community.

Preferredtenderers were selected followingan interview process.

Wellington Shire mayor Ian Bye said the rigorous tender process has ensured that the best operators have been appointed.

“Council will work with them to make sure park operations support the needs of both the community and visitors,” he said.

“Council also continues to work proactively with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action to prioritise investment and growth across all caravan parks locatedonCrown Land, and these improvements will enhance the overall visitor experience.”

When asked about the future of the Loch Sport site, operators Ray and Belinda Johnson said they have enjoyed gettingtoknow the local community and welcoming visitors to the region, and were

looking forward to the next chapter and working withthe community and the counciltodeliver some incredible infrastructure improvements that will increase visitation in the region.

Mr Priest was also looking forward to improving services offered to the community, annual site holders and tourists at Woodside Beach.

“A new lease is an opportunity to create new relationships and encourage greater visitor economy throughout the south of our shire,” he said.

“Woodside is ahiddengem,and Iamlooking forwardtowelcoming locals and visitors to experience thenew era of our park and its operations.”

Significant facility and service upgrades at both sites to be completed in the next five years.

Both parks willoffer awider range of accommodation options, with plans to build anew amenities block andplayground in Woodside, anda new playground,storageshed, glampingtents,and upgradedcamp kitchen is on the cards in Loch Sport.

St,and newroundabouts in Macarthur and Market Sts, support for numerous solar projects over the shire,and partnerships with neighbouring councils to achieve efficiencies for both in IT services. Mr Rossetti is the ownerand manager of Gippsland Funeral Services, based in Sale, Yarram and Foster. Abusiness that has been established for over 80 years, beginning with Rossetti’s grandfather.

“Managing Wellington Shire requires adiverse rangeofskills from its councillors. One of the reasons Iamstanding is that Ibelieve my experiences acrossmanyareas will enable me to serve the ratepayers of Wellington well,” Mr Rossetti said. Mr Rossetti believed his varied workexperienceand collection of tertiary qualifications havehelped him understand the intricacies of alarge and diverse shire such as Wellington, the prosperity and wellbeingofhis constituents being his main priority.

Maffra

road danger

From Page 1

THE MaffraStructure Planproposes extending ‘sharedpathconnections'.Sandy Creek Rd is named three times under plans to upgrade intersectiondesign and safety that will prioritise pedestrians and cyclists. These upgrades are where Sandy Creek Rd intersects withPowerscourt and BoisdaleSts, and Maffra-Newry Rd.

Acouncil spokesperson said shared path connections aimed to improve pedestrian and cyclists’ access in the community.

“Shared paths are wider concrete footpaths, usually 2.5 metres wide, designed for both pedestriansand cyclists.This type of infrastructureistypically provided by the developer during the development phase,” they said.

ScottRossetti.

Photo:File

Shire),

Shire),

Shire),

Healy (Timber

Victoria),

(Ballarat

Photo: Contributed

Call out for council candidates

CANDIDATES readytostand in the upcoming Wellington Shire Council postal election are urged to use the Victorian Electoral Commission’snewlyrefreshed Candidate Helpertoget their applications ready for submission when nominations open on Monday, September 9. Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel

reminded candidates there are several important steps they must complete before nominating.

“If you want to represent your local community, make sure to confirm your eligibility and complete the mandatory online candidate training through Local Government Victoriabeforelodging your nomination,” he said.

Hogan:roadsreview needed

WELLINGTON Shire Council election candidate Cameron (Jamie) Hogan has called for a totalreviewand areportback to council on the state of the shire’sroads.

Dr Hogansaidthat if he were to be elected to representthe Northern Ward in October’s council election, he would demand this report and then ask for funds to be allocated through the council budget to start addressing the problems urgently.

“Quick patch up jobs were now not good enough,” he said.

Dr Hogan pointed out the NorthernWard had some of the most remote areas in the shire with road access near impossible in bad weather or at night.

“Crumbling and dangerous roads with eroding curbs are adding to the problem,” he said.

“Some of the repairs undertaken on the road to Briagolong and through to the Blue Pools had returned to its former dilapidated and dangerous statewithin acouple of weeks. These temporary repairs don’t help driver safety or condition the roads to be safe and help prevent the loss of life.”

RACV policy head James Williamssaiditwas clearthe condition of regional roads had become asafety concern for Victorians.

“The number of responses the RACV survey had received was astrong indication that Victorian are concerned about safety on regional roads and are callingfor urgent improvements.”

An RACV survey revealed sixty percent of participants said improvementstoroadsurfaces should be the priority road safety solution.

Dr Hogansaidthe RACV had commented that in 2021diverbehaviour was the biggestconcern but this year poorroad conditions hadmore than doublethe dangerous driver behaviour in their latestsurvey. He added the RACV had reported 58 per cent of survey participan’slocal knowledge had been invaluable in identifying Victoria’s unsafe roads.

Although the RACV survey had not specifically identified roads in the Northern Ward, Dr Hogan believed the trends were indicative of the issues looming and currently affecting the ward and dilapidating roads across Wellington leading to and from the more remote areas needed investigating and urgent repairs.

elected to Wellington ShireCouncil.

“This ruleapplies to all candidates, including thosewho arecurrentlyorhavepreviously been acouncillor.”

The VEC’s online Candidate Helper,at vec.vic. gov.au/council-candidate,allows candidatesto pre-fill their nomination forms before submitting them at their nomination appointment.

Candidates can also watch aseries of videos on key topics such as the nomination process, including the rules andprocedures that apply.More information is available online at vec.vic.gov.au

The CandidateHandbook is also available on the VEC website.

Prospective candidates are also encouraged to attend the candidate information sessions being heldineach electoratebeforethe opening of nominations.

Prospective candidates must make an

appointment to submit their nomination forms and pay the $250fee in person during business hours. They must provide evidence that they have completed the online candidate training, as this is required by law and will be shown on each candidate’s nomination form.

Candidates must make an appointment to submit their nomination form in person at the election office by calling the Candidate Helpline, 8620 1316, until Monday, September9.From September 9, candidates can phone 131 832 and they will be directed through to the relevant election office. Nominations close at noon on Tuesday, September 17. Late nominations will not be accepted. Ballot packs will be sent to votersfrom October7, with allpostalvotes to be received by the returning officer by noon November 1.

Speaker to visit

which sits in the House of Representatives during sittingdays. The Speaker will tour schools in Gippsland during thefirstweek of September

THE Speaker of the Houseof Representatives, Milton Dick, is set to visit several schools across the region to discuss civics and citizenship with students.

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has invited the Speaker to talk about his role in parliament and how the democratic process works.

“As Presiding Officer,the Speaker chairsthe meetings of theHouse of Representatives and ensures they are conducted in an orderlymannerand according to the provisionsofthe Constitution and the standing orders, which are the written rulesofthe House,” Mr Chester said.

“So, in simplerterms, Speaker Milton Dick is basically the umpire of proceedings, and he enforces the rules. He’s an excellent Speaker andapersonal friend of mine,and I’m looking forward to hosting his visit.”

Mr Dick will visit schools in Churchill, Woodside, Sale, Lindenow and Orbost over athree-day visit.

Northern Ward candidate Cameron Hogan will call for areview in thestate of local roadsif he’s

Photo: Contributed

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester (left) and House of Representatives Speaker Milton Dick with areplicaofthe mace

Photo: Contributed

Respect taking in daffodils

Stefan Bradley

LOCAL staff, residents, and their loved ones from Wattleglen aged care home in Sale stepped out in style last week -donning yellow in support of a veryspecial cause:Daffodil Dayand life-saving cancer research.

The fundraising event, which included a memorable morning tea, continued abusy period of fun-filled activities for residents of the Sale home, which is part of not-for-profit aged care provider Respect. Across each of Respect’s homes, including Wattleglen, social care teams curate awide range of regular events and activities which inspire participation, promote inclusion, and give residents an opportunity to stay connected with each other, as well as the community, in a fun and positive way.

Donna Quine, asocial care co-ordinator at Wattleglen, said residents wereexcited to fundraise

for Daffodil Day and welcomed their friends and family fromthe widercommunity into the home to join in with all the colourful festivities.

“Our residents were really excited about our Daffodil Day activities becausethey love giving back to the local community and making adifferencetothe lives of others. Nearly everyone knows someonewho has sufferedwith acancer of some sort, but the day was also agreat wayfor ourresidents to feel likethey werebeing partof abigger community initiative,” Ms Quine said.

“We even had one resident who couldn’t be here on the day but who still donated $200 justbecause it’s acause they wanted to support.

“A lot of our residents, priortojoining Wattleglen, loved to get involvedwithand supportlocal campaigns.Inthe past, they would havecooked for stalls, got involved and helped out where they could, so for them to be able to still contribute to local fundraising through Daffodil Day… they are all feeling very privileged.

“This day is very important to them.”

Wattleglen resident Glenice Collins said Daffodil Day brought ahappy and yellow side to the grim subject of cancer.

“Daffodil Day also reminds me of my dearmum, becauseweoutforluncheveryDaffodilDay,”shesaid.

“My dad died of cancer when he was only 40, and thatwas during the times of 1950when(healthcare) was nothing like what we’ve have now.”

Ms Collins spoke abouther own history with cancer. At age 52, she was told she would only live another six months because of cancer, but medical breakthroughs has ensured she was able to celebrate her 80th birthday recently.

Ms Quine said preparations for the home’s muchanticipated Daffodil Day activities began earlier in the week, with residents participating in special artsand craft sessionstomakeunique decorations and signage ready to welcome visitors.

“All week residentshavealsobeen discussing whatthey could wearonthe day.Wehad onelady wholives with us who went out and bought crepe paper because themaleresidents don’t tend to get

involved in dress-upsasmuch, so she is goingto be makingthem yellow bow ties so they could join in on the festivities also.”

Research has longshown being part of acommunity can havesignificanthealth benefits, particularly for mental and emotional wellbeing. As acommunity-focused organisation, Respect said it recognised how integral a‘sense of belonging’ and social connectiveness was to positive ageing.

“We believe that creating arobust calendar of activities and events go handinhand with providing our residents with engagement,creative outlets, and opportunities to improve their health and wellbeing,” Ms Quine said.

“Forsomepeople, it isn’t alwayseasy to transition to an aged care home and they can sometimes feel abit isolated as they get usedtosuch abig change But our Wattleglen communityloves supporting them, and we like to thinkhaving such an active and popular socialcalendar helps them fitin, get active and involved with others, and improve their social wellbeing.”

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

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

Community Drop-in

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

•Steel Pile JacketDecommissioning

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

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

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

•Jack-Up-Rig Well Plug and Abandonment

•Kipper -Sub-Sea Drilling

•Turrum Phase 3Drilling

•Gippsland Basin Geophysical and Geotechnical Investigations

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

Please refer to the NOPSEMA brochure Consultationonoffshore petroleum environment plans (link) to understand more about consultation on offshore petroleum environment plans assessed under the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage (Environment) Regulations2023. Your feedback and our response will be included in the relevant regulatory application documentation and submitted to the regulator

•Bream Greenhouse Gas Appraisal Environment Plan (SEA CCS)

•Pipeline Network Decommissioning

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To find out more information

For more information about Esso’s Decommissioning activitiesand other projects, please go to the Esso Consultation Hub at: https://www.exxonmobil.com.au/communityengagement/local-outreach/consultation-hub

Wattleglen residents Gerald Zimmer and Glenice Collins.

Photo: Stefan Bradley

About 40-50 people got togetheratWattleglen forDaffodil Day.

Our homelessness crisis

StefanBradley

HOMELESSNESSWeek earlier this month highlighted the scale of the state’s homelessness crisis in Gippsland.

Gippsland is seeing that cost of living pressures and ashortage of affordable housing continues to hurt. People from all walks of life are now struggling to find ahome, at risk of losing their home, or are already without ahome.

The high cost of living,including rent, is pushing more people into homelessness, even among those whoare working.

Uniting Gippslandseniormanager Tracey Donaldson said every day there were people who had never before needed its services coming forward seeking help.

“We set up an information stand at Gippsland Centre in Sale (on August 9) and invited the community to build an origami house and write a message about what ahome means to them,” Ms Donaldson said.

“These origami houses were then presented among more than 6000 others made by people fromacross Victoria and placedonthe steps of the VictorianParliament. The 6000 figure represents 10 per cent of the60,000 socialhousing properties Victoria needs

“Oneofthe most pleasingaspectsofour display

at the shopping centre thisyear was the amount of interestwehad fromthose wanting moreofan understanding about the homelessnesscrisisand how they could help.

“A warm and comfortable home is something many of us take (for) granted, but there are many here in Gippsland who are sleeping on the streets, parks, in cars, with no place to go."

Ms Donaldson said there needed to be more social housing and that as acommunity,weshouldn’t accept homelessness.

“There are more people doing it tough, not knowingwhere they willshelter from oneday to another or where they will get their next meal,” she said.

Community Housing (Vic) Limited (CHVL) is anot-for-profit company delivering affordable housing for low to moderate income people.

During the 2023-24 financial year, CHVL assisted 2379 individuals and families with housing services.

The company is currentlydelivering64new social housing properties acrossGippsland in partnership with Homes Victoria, as part of the Big Housing Build for people on low incomes.

Wellingtonisreceiving seven new social housing properties, with Bass Coast (14), Latrobe (38) and Baw Baw (five) also set to benefit.

Asked about homelessness in Wellington today and Gippsland more broadly, Grant McNeil, who is the Victorian state manager for CHVL, said it could

be difficult to determine what was happening to those experiencing housingstress or the homeless population at any point in time.

“Your homelesspopulation is actually difficult to identifybecause you might havepeople who are in crisis, who might be sleepingrough, but then you've also got people who are living in housing stress, paying well in excess of 40 per cent of their income in rent,” Mr McNeil said.

“But people who are living in overcrowded situations, or people who are living in caravans or rooming houses…would still be considered homeless.

“But we have noticed just in the last few years, an increase in homelessness more generally, a different cohort of people are seeking out support.

“We're starting to get people who actually have incomes more than we did previously, so people who actually work are struggling to keep up with the rent.”

Mr McNeil said with avacancy rate very low over the last few years, it’s made it very difficult for people to access the private rental market.

CHVL delivers homelessness services from two entry points,Morwell and Bairnsdale, to service the Gippsland region and manages 144 transitional housing properties in Gippsland, providing short to medium term housing for people who have been homeless.

CHVL works in partnership with support agencies across Gippsland, for example family violence services, the Aboriginal community and health services and youth support services.

Gippsland’s housing and homelessness crisis in 2024 -just the facts

 432 households (11 per cent) were sleeping rough in cars, tents or in the open.

 3,920 households accessed homelessness entry points in Bairnsdale, Leongatha, Morwell, Orbost, Sale, Warragul, and Yarram in 2023-24.

 23 per cent of those who accessed the Yarram Entry Point were rough sleepers

 19.8 per cent of Gippsland’s total dwellings were unoccupied on Census night 2021.

 Gippsland’s private rental vacancy rate was 1.7 per centinJune2024(according to Homes Victoria Rental Report)

 469 people who accessed homelessness Entry Points were employed.

 Gippsland has two youth refuges with atotal of 16beds.

 132 young people were referred to Youth Homelessness Refuges in 2023-24, and 265 received outreach support in the community.

 Three Gippsland local government areas are in the top five highest rates of family violence in Victoria.

 The Big Housing Build in Gippsland saw 246homes completed, 211 homes underway, and $193 million spent by May 2024.

 In March 2024, there were 7,179 households on the Victorian Housing Register Priority Access list for Gippsland.

 The number of new lettings in Gippsland decreased by 13 per cent from March 2023 to March 2024, the largest decrease in regional Victoria.

Uniting Homelessness Team –Kelly,Jay,Claire, Leeann, Leona and Heidi.

Stall at Gippsland ShoppingCentre, with JodieBatchelor (Uniting Gippsland), Cindy Madeley(Candidate for WellingtonShire), and Kelly Magee (SeniorHomelessness Worker Uniting). Photos:Contributed

Steps of Parliament event with Memberfor Gippsland South Danny O’Brien and the Uniting team on July 31

Milestone for Mr E

ErikaAllen

MICHAELEvers, AKA ‘Mr E’ to current and former AraluenPrimary School students, wasrecently recognised by theDepartment of Education for 35 years of service.

For every one of those years, Mr Evers has taught at Araluen PS. Yet, he said where or for how long he’s been teaching is not as significant as knowing he hasimpacted many children.

“Back then, Idon’t know if Ihad the certain goals or aspirations in mind, but Ijust loved the fact that my sister was ateacher, and she’d come home with all the stories about how rewarding it was and Ithought… that sounds like agood little job –making adifference,” he said.

“I suppose Ihad dreams to impart brilliant knowledge onto the little tackers of the world.”

He said it's thrilling learning new things alongside students, like ‘I am’ is the shortest sentence in theEnglish language or no number before 1000 contains the letter‘a’. So is watching astudent have that ‘light bulb’ moment of understanding.

In any profession, those who dedicate their lives to it encounter afew full-circle moments along the way. Mr Evers hadgraduatedfrom Bendigo Teachers Collegewhen he began teaching at Araluen PS in 1989. He was appointed with six other graduates, and David McGrath and Helen Nikitin were his mentors. Now, Mr Evers is amentor to ayounger generation of upcoming teachers and has even inspired his students to pursue the career.

Mr Evers noted that in 1989, the school had 16 classes, with the majority of its 450 students coming from families connected to either Esso (one-third) or RAAF (one-third).

Although he grew up in Melbourne, Mr Evers said he’s always liked “country life” and that everyone seems to know everyone. Where else could ateacher have the opportunity to educate multiple generationswithinthe same family or receive requests from parents for their child to be taught by the same teacher for asecond or even third year?

Mr Evers rarely has to wonder about his former students’ lives; he often meets them at the supermarket or on the street, where they introduce their childrenand share life updates. Some even request copies of the dance music he once taught them to play at their 21st birthdays or weddings.

“Walking down the street and getting acknowledged by those kids and their parents still, that’s the biggest thrill of everything,” he said.

“They still come up to me and say, ‘G’day, Mr E.’ Thatmight be as much as they say, but the fact that they’ve got asmile on theirface, the ones that stop and have agood chat, tell me that they’ve got kids now, that’s just wonderful.”

It should come as no surprise thatMrEvers has along list of memorable teaching moments. They include significant blips on the education timeline, like the advent of technology—interactive Whiteboards, smart TVs, and student devices. Additionally, Mr Evershighlighted technology that has simplified teachers’ lives, like acomputerised report format, noting that he “got tired of rewriting carbon-copied reports every time Imade amistake.”

It is also notsurprising that whenthe Gippsland Times interviewed Mr Evers, the teacher in him showed —hecame prepared with bullet points of his favourite memories.

Instances where teachingintersects withMr Evers’ passions outside of work, although he said he considers teaching apassion as well, rank particularly high on the list.

Teaching students “old school dancing” like the classics ‘Nutbush’, ‘Macarena’, ‘Mambo No. 5’ and ‘Chicken Dance’, as well as dances from musicals

like Grease,features on theMrE Highlight Reel.An enthusiast of rock ‘n’ roll dancinghimself, Mr Evers said he loves bringing thatpassion for group dancing into the classroom, be that at morning fitness classes, as alunchtime activity, or at graduations.

Other memorable moments include the uptake of theatre sports (improvised drama),singingalong to ABC radio —studentswould sing into aspeaker, and Mr Evers would mime, and attending 32 camps, including at SovereignHill Costume School where students and staff dressed in old-fashioned clothes and experienced what 1850s classes might have been like.

Mr Evers saidhedoesn’tconsiderteachingan 8.30am until3.30pm grind because, behind the scenes, he’s staying late and coming into school on holidays to complete administrative work. In short, there’s alot of extracurricular tasks.

“Face-to-face teachingisobviously the most enjoyablepartbecause you’re doing what you love… But we’ve got alot of extra responsibilities which people might not be aware of,” he said.

Araluen PS acting principal Karen Smyth said Mr Evers “live and breathes” Araluen PS.

“Mick hasbeen apassionate anddedicated teacher at Araluen and Araluen only, he lives and breathes the place. Over the 35 years he has made adifference to many children and their families.

He is now teaching the children of some of his ex-students,” she said.

The official roles Mr Evers has taken on include occupationalhealthand safetyrepresentative, emergency management co-ordinator, asbestos management, buildings and groundsco-ordinator, leadership team member, and mentor to younger and upcoming teachers. Among other unofficial roles, Mr Evers said he’s referred to as ‘Mr Fix-it’ when desk drawer handles need replacing or playground equipmentneedsrepairs. He is also ‘Mr Go-to man’ who is asked questions like, ‘Do we have any of these? Where is…?, and Did Araluen ever do this?’

At the same time, when Mr Evers talked about the responsibilities these roles entail,such as coming in on weekends to repair equipment, he ended the sentences with ‘Which Ilove’ or ‘But I put my hand up for it’.

Ms Smyth coroboratedthis,saying, “Mickknows where everything in the school is (we’ll have him on speed dial if he ever retires) and is very passionate about the history of the school, he loves to keep up traditions which may have been lost if he was no longer teaching.”

Some of thechallengesMrEvers addressed included finding time to complete these responsibilities, which he said have increased as educationhas

changed to accommodate mental health programs, languages other than English, religiouseducation, and swimming -subjects that were either taboo decades ago or that were taught within families. Perhaps times were simpler when Mr Evers was an upcoming teacher.For example, he said the community were given freerein over the school grounds after hours,and playequipment was never mistreated.However, plucking balls off roofs without safety equipment is certainly an OHS representative’s nightmare today.

To commemorate the milestone, Araluen PS staff treated Mr Evers to morning tea at Redd Catt. He also attended an event organised by the Department of Education alongside other educators who have taught 35 years. Mr Evers said it was a nice way of recognising the contribution teachers make.

“It shows that the Department is aware that some peopleare in it for the longhaul. This is their career and obviously they are recognising that we’re making acontribution,” he said.

Ms Smyth said the school valuesMrEvers' contribution and dedication.

“Araluen is certainly what it is today because of dedicated teachers like Mick. CongratulationsMick from all the kids, staff and students at Aralunen,” Ms Smyth said.

Thanks Mr E! Michael Evers has been recognised by Araluen Primary School and the Department of Education for 35 years of teaching. Photo: Araluen PS

Letter: Wild dogs on rampage

MY recently-widowed, retired brother is living on the edge!

He has had to engage professional trappers to stop the current carnage to local livestock -sheep, calves and domestic animals -around the Newry area.

Packs of up to four and five wild interbred dogsare causing many of the local primary producers and hobby farmers thousands of dollars in losses with their animals being brutalised by these rampant wild dogs.

One farmerrecently lost 47 lambs andsix calves in one night.

My brother lost six sheep from apaddock close to his home.

The pain and suffering has to be seen to be believed -one adult ewe had her entire hindquarter torn from the spinal column and was still alive when discovered, and immediately euthanised. Anotherwas completely disembowelled and a third had its face torn from its head.

The painand anxiety beingendured by these farmers, physically, emotionally and financially, is enormous.

Theday before writing this letter,aneighbour from across the road had his “protector” alpaca

torn to shreds, trying to save the flock from these mongrels. At present, my brother cannot allowhis companion dog to roam the property as there have been reports of attacks on domestic animals during the daytime as well as night. Consequently, the remaining flock are so severely traumatised that their fleece after shearing is compromised by “breaks” in fleece -more stress and financial loss for the farmer.

If the government of the day ceases funding, thus stoppingthe trappersfrom doing their jobs, the situation will be considerably worse.

Given these farmers and hobbyists agoplease! Get off your padded chairs, go out and have alook at the real picture.

Anne Jones

Traralgon

Check yourvaluation

WE have reached thattimeofyearwhenrates notices begin to hit our mailboxes. Enclosed with yourratesnotice (or attachedifyou’ve optedto receive it electronically) will be an updated land valuation for your property. Iamwriting to remind

Dads and utes at Maffra Market

FOR Father’s Day this Sunday,the Rotary Club of Maffra Community Market will hold aute “Show and Shine”.

Up to 25 utes will be on display in the middle of the market, with prizes offered for the best kept utes.

Anyone can come and show off their ute with pride and possibly win avoucher, including an overnight stayatthe Stables, Duart Homestead. To enteryour ute, email sherrell_m@hotmail.com

There will be abarbecue, doughnuts, toasties and coffee, along with lots of craft stalls, woodcraft, soaps, candles, clothing, plants, environmentallyfriendly cleaning products.

Themarketwill be supportingGippsland Rotary Centenary House, anot-for-profit self-care accommodation facility for patients (and their families) of the Gippsland Cancer Care Centre and specialist medical services at Latrobe Regional Hospital. The house contains30motel style guest rooms withfull communal facilities includingkitchens,

ratepayers that youhave aright to object if you disagree with the valuation of your property. Every yeararound this time my office is contacted by concerned ratepayers who believe their property has beenunfairlyrated and the reality is that sometimes mistakesare made. With Labor’s recent changes to land tax thresholds meaning that all land valued over $50,000 is now subject to land tax alongwiththe Vacant Residential Land Tax being extended to regional areas from 1January2025, it is more important than ever to ensure you receive afair valuation of your property. Details of how to challenge your valuationwill also be includedwith yourrates notice.Please note that objections must be submitted within two months of the notice of valuation being provided.

Danny O’Brien

StateMember for Gippsland South

The views expressedinletters to theeditor arethoseofthe writers,and do notnecessarily reflect the views of Gippsland Timesmanagementorstaff.

Emailletterstonews@gippslandtimes.com.au

 MAFFRA Bowls Club wishes to advise that due to unforeseen circumstances, its final monthly soup and sandwich day for this year will not be held tomorrow. Instead, it will be held the on the following Wednesday, September 4.

 ROTARY Club of Maffra Community Market will be held on Sunday at the Island Reserve, McMahon Drive, at the rear of the Woolworths car park, from 9am until noon. Don’t forget to look out for the fundraising barbecue. All welcome.

Community Corner with David Braithwaite

Fulham trades info night

THE Fulham Correctional Centre near Sale is nowrecruiting for trades officers and maintenance officers. These employees will contribute to the education and training of prisoners, providing skills for theirsuccessful community reintegration.

Theshow will open Saturday from9.30am, running to 4pm. Patronscan also visit theshow on Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

dining rooms, lounges, laundries as well as outdoor relaxing areas. For information on market stalls email Raelene at padmacraftsco@gmail.com.For any other informationemail maffrasecretary@rotary9820. org.au Come celebrate dads and utes at the Maffra Marketfor Father’s Daythis Sunday!

iStock

An information nightwill be held tonight between 7pm and 8pm at the Fulham Correctional Centre, 110 Hopkins Rd, Fulham.

CWAsponge demo

THE North Gippsland CountryWomen's Association Group willhostasponge-making demonstration in the CWA rooms, Macarthur St,Sale, on Thursday from 9.30am. Entry is $10. Morning tea provided.

For more information phone 0427 310 057.

Orchid showthis weekend

SALE and District Orchid Club is proud to be presenting its 2024 Spring Show. Always held on the Father’s Day weekend, the group offers the invitation to anyone interested to head downtothe VRIHall,just opposite Sale trainstation.

There will be award winningdisplays of cymbidiums, native Australian and other genera orchids, as well as asales bench. Growerswill providepottingdemonstrations at 11am and 2pm each day,and therewill be araffle with anumber of prizes to start your orchid journey.

People can also find information about becoming aSADOC member, with free membership until the annual meetingnext April.

For more information, emailing saleorchidclub@gmail.com

Heyfield market

HEYFIELDCommunity Market willbeheld on Saturday, September 7, at JohnGraves Memorial Park Temple Street opposite HeyfieldPrimaryschool commencing from 8am.

Cakes Baked goods Devonshire teas Barbecued Food Books Clothes and avariety of goodswill be available to buy. New stallholders are welcome. For more information Phone Ray on 03 5148 3408.

Photo:

Bundy film society open

FILMS at the Bundy is alocal film society, open to all.

Recent-release indie and foreign filmsare screened on the fourth Wednesday of eachmonth Members benefit from agreat selection of films, the extraordinaryaudio-visual equipment of the fabulous Bundy Hall, free borrowing of their entire back catalogue of DVDs and acollegial group of film lovers.

Hot drinksand movie snacks available forgold coin donations. BYO alcoholicdrinks. Doors open at 7.00pm for a7.30pmstart.

Season passes are available at the door or at www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1226268

Tomorrow night’s film is Shayda,anAustralian drama-thriller based on film maker Noora Niasari’s childhood with her mother, who migrated from Iran to Australia to flee herabusive husband only for him to follow her. The winner of the Sundance Film Festival -World Cinema Dramatic CompetitionAudience Award, the film had Cate Blanchett as an executive producer Prospective members are welcome to attend a society screenings to see if they would like to join

AGOODCatch Circus will bring its show, CastingOff,tothe Stratford Courthouse on Friday, September 6.

Funny and heartful, thesepowerhouse women willwin you over withinminutes of hitting the stage.

Circus casting off Discover the power of reading

Wearing multi-coloured hand knitted costumesthey share their lives and ideas while holding each other up both literally and metaphorically. They challengegender conventions with kindness and humour and entertain without arrogance.

Casting Off suggests that the voices and bodies of women of all ages are worthy interestingand even funny. That women should be seen and heard, are dynamic, courageous and hilarious.

Tickets are $25 ($20 concession) and can be purchased at stratfordcourthouse.com.au

Prior to their performance they will conduct a Stitch and Bitch session from 5pm. Participants are invited to bring their current craft projects for an hour of talking textiles.

For more information phone Helen on 0419 181 972.

In addition to their show, AGood Catch will conduct an interactive circus and physical theatre workshop for youth aged 15 to 25 on Thursday, September 5, from 5pm. Participants can jointhe talented castof CastingOff to learn some circusskills including

physical theatre, human pyramids, acrobatics and more.

Theworkshop is free to attend, but spaces arelimited and bookings are essential.

AT first glance, Paul-Émile Dumoulin seemslike just aregular librarian. He is serious, proud and very orderly.

Every book is in its place on his impeccable shelves.

The only problem? As soon as Paul-Émile gets hisnoseina book, reality disappears, giving way to the slightly crazy worlds he discovers between the pages.

On his adventures, the very sensible librarian metamorphoses. He suddenly turns into strange andsilly characterswho perform acrobatics, balancing, juggling, break dancing and beatboxing.

Just how far will reading take him?

Performing at The Wedge on Tuesday, September 10, from 2pm, and Wednesday, September 11, from11amand 1pm, The Librarian blends clowning, physical theatre and the circus arts. It invites young audiences to discover the passion of reading and the power of the imagination, which whisks readers awaytofaraway lands, on an adventure, or into aromance or thriller.

The Librarian is an hilarious show that will make you read.

Comedic overweight lightweight in Sale

DAVE O’Neil may call himself alightweight, but with more than 30 years of experience, his cheeky brandofhumour has made him one of Australia’s most lovedcomedians.

After playing to sold out audiencesacross the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and with years of breakfast radioonNova, frequent

appearances on Spicks and Specks, abunch of podcasts (including Somehow Related with Glenn Robbins and The Junkees with Kitty Flanagan) and areputation for taking any corporate gig he is offered, it takes alot to throw this comedian off his game.

Performinghis show Overweight Lightweight at

The Wedge, Sale,onThursday, October5,from 8pm, O'Neil willbejoined by his friendand regular on The Debrief podcast, Brad Oakes (Hey Hey it’s Saturday, Comedy Company)for what will be a night of laughs with two of Australia’s longest working comedians.

Films at the Bundy hasarange of good films to look forwardto. Image: Contributed

Dave O’Neil’s showOverweight Lightweight is on at The Wedge on Thursday September 5.

Photo: Contributed

ONE POINTERS

1. Who was The Lone Ranger’ssidekick?

2. Who painted the Sistine chapel?

3. What fictional character had the catchphrase ‘Suffering Succotash’?

4. What oceans 11 star is also the Nespresso global ambassador?

TWOPOINTERS

5. Which Roman emperor was famously stabbed by Brutus?

6. What film company produced MaryPoppins?

7. The film “The Color Purple” starred which American talk show host?

8. Australian cartoon popular around theworld, centred around afamily of blue heelers?

THREE POINTER

9. Fats are also known as?

10. How many days are there of winter inastandard year?

11. What is the proper title for aSpanish soldier?

12 What was the name of the first Earth orbiting satellite to be successfully launched?

FOUR POINTER

13 What creature was successfully cloned in 1997?

14 Which of the disciples had their elbowonthe table in The Last Supper?

FIVE POINTER

15 What does Pokémon mean in Japanese?

Howdid youfare?

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

Answers: 1: nto;To 2: Michelangelo; 3: Sylvester the Cat; 4: George Clooney;

Julius Caesar; 6: Disney; 7: Oprah Winfrey; 8: Bluey; 9: Lipids; 10: 89;

Conquistador; 12: Sputnik 1; 13: Dolly the Sheep; 14: Judas;

Pocket monster

THIS home in asemi-rural location on Sandy Creek Road, Maffra, is on the market.

Agents say this property offers ablend of modern comfort and countryside charm, set on an allotment of land perfect for those seeking tranquillity and space. With five bedrooms, two bathrooms and living areas, agents say this home is designed to cater to the needs of agrowing family or anyone looking to embrace amore serene lifestyle, with the added bonus of views to the mountain ranges.

The kitchen features abuilt-in pantry and modern appliances. The three living zones have reverse cycle air conditioning and ducted central heating ensuring year-round comfort.

There is an alfresco room with awood heater to takethe chill offand views of the yard and land to admire.

Outside the property features established gardens, shedding, aworkshop, a water tank, and garage space for up to five vehicles.

f Luxurious Acreage Living in Maffra

Agents say this home is ashort drive from Maffra's CBD.

Agents are asking prospective buyers to act now and not miss this opportunity to secure alifestyle property in one of Victoria's most sought-after semi-rural locations.

199 Sandy Creek

Two

Charming Affordable Family Home in Maffra

Meet Maleaha, our new sales agent in Maffra

Maleaha Stone hasjoined the Wellington RealEstatesales team in Maffra. Photo: Contributed

Acreage property on the edge of town

THE property at 63 Fisks Lane, Pearsondale is an acreage property of 6.47 hectares (16 acres approximately).

Agents say this property is perfect for prospective buyers seeking a rural lifestyle with the convenience of the shops and services of Sale only ashort ten-minute drive away

The home features kitchen, dining, and living area. The living space features a timber vaulted ceiling, agas log heater, split system and ceiling fanfor year-round comfort. The kitchen, was updated in 2018. This property includes two bedrooms, one of which comes with built-in robes, and a second living space. The laundry has been updated and leads through to the bathroom and toilet.

Adding to this property is aseparate studio/bedroom, featuring an electric air conditioner.The yard has established trees, including some fruit-bearing varieties.

Agents say practical features of the property include town water and septic systems, awindmill, and abore. For prospective buyers needing space for projects or storage, agents say it offers a variety of different sheds and workshops, including bays for atractor and aboat.

The cattle yard is equipped with aloading race and crush, making it suitable for livestock management. The land is divided into three paddocks with adam, providing ample space and resources for agricultural activities.

Additionally,agents say there is aconvenient school bus stop with ashelter located on the corner,making this property ideal for families.

Agents say that whether prospective buyersare looking to manage livestock, or simply enjoy a serene rural lifestyle, this property willsuit arange of buyers- contact us today to arrange aviewing.

Brief details

Address: 63 Fisks Lane, Pearsondale

AGENTS

They

The

This

Herefordbulls up for inspection

HEREFORD bullsfrom five studs across Gippsland are up for inspection tomorrow, aweekprior to the date of the Gippsland Performance Herefords bull and female sale.

The group’s fourth annual online bull sale will take place on Wednesday, September 4, and includes females for the first time.

On offer are 20 young Poll Hereford bulls as well as 10 Poll Hereford females, all which have had to reach certain criteriatobeincluded in the sale, having been independently assessed.

Four of those females have calves at foot, while the remaining six are yearlings.

Last year’s top-priced bull was Mundook Turbo T231at$13,000,withthe 21 bulls averaging $7250, and more sold after the sale.

An online sale is amodern option for selling bulls, withthe group’s visiontosell young Herefordbulls andfemales with structuralsoundness and aboveaverage genetic merit.

Gippsland Performance Herefords is acollaborationbetween fivePoll Herefordstudprincipals, Charellen Poll Hereford stud, at Pearsondale near Sale,run by Stan Walker;Mundook Herefords owned by Gary and Jill McAinch, alongside Bill and Minnie Kee’s, Warringa Herefords at ‘Wandana’, Sarsfield, near Bairnsdale; Tarwin Poll Herefords, owned by David Meikle, at Meeniyan in South Gippsland, and Willack Poll Herefords, owned by Bill and Annie Lack, at Dawson near Heyfield.

Warringa Herefords’ Bill Kee said all the stud principals werelong-time supporters of Breedplan andthey had set high standards their cattle had to attain,orthey were not entered in the sale.

“We’re very proud of our animals,inour catalogue each animalhas abar graph includedtoshow their EstimatedBreedingValuesagainst the breed average,” he said.

“Most of us used to sell our bulls privately but the collaboration between us over the past four years has helped each stud.

of

“We all believeinthe science behind the EBV data and our animals are DNA tested.

“We work on improving qualities like carcase, marbling,growth, gestation length and calving ease.”

All sale cattleare poll, themajority being homozygous,thoughsome are heterozygous poll, meaning they only have one polledgene

All five studs will open for inspection tomorrow between 9am and 4pm or at any other time by contacting the specific vendor.

Therewillalso be hard copy catalogues available at each stud.

The AuctionsPlus run Gippsland Performance Herefords bull sale will commence online at 11am, to see the catalogue visit the Performance Herefords website.

Each beast has also passed an independent structural assessment and fertility/semen test conducted by aqualified assessor and the assessments are available on request.

Connecting producerstoglobal markets

THE state government is backing regional farmers and food and beverage businesses to increase their exports and explore new markets by partnering with the federal government.

State Economic Growth Minister Tim Pallas has announced the establishment of trade managers in five Victorian regions, including Gippsland, to turbochargeexportsforregionalVictorianbusinesses.

The locally-based trade managers willsupport new and established food and fibre businesses to enter or expand in priority exportmarkets, while promoting the state’s food and beverage credentials internationally.

Victoria is the nation’s premier state for food and fibre, with exports increasing seven per cent in value in2022-23andreachingarecord$19.6billion-bringingthestateclosetoachievingthestategovernment’s target of $20 billion by 2030.

Partnering with Austrade to deliver TradeStart in Victoria will provide further support for Victorian businessesinadditiontothe23VictorianGovernment Trade and Investment offices. TradeStart advisors provide business advice,build export capabilityand

provide connections to international markets.

The state government has provided $10 million to assistfood and fibre businesses reach global markets as part of arecord $45 billion investment over the past decade in projects and programs that support regional and rural Victoria.

Mr Pallas saidthe partnership with thefederal governmentwas abig winfor Victoria's regional food and beverage businesses, who will get targeted supporttogrowtheirexportsinexistingmarketsand diversify into new markets overseas.

“Victorialeads the nation in food and fibre exports which not only gets ourtop-quality products into globalmarkets,italsohelps grow jobs at home -supportingnear-record low regional unemployment,” he said.

It is the first time in more than 25 years that all state and territory governments will be part of the national TradeStart network.

Federal Trade Minister Don Farrell said more trade meant more well-paying jobs, more national income,moreopportunities for business,and alower cost of living.

Fall armyworm workshop

FARMERS in Victoria are encouraged to keep an eye out for fall armyworm, anewly established pest in the state and attend an information session to learn more.

Fall armyworm is ahighly invasive and destructive caterpillar native to tropical and subtropical regions, however, has recently been sightedinthe colder areas of Victoria. It is not yet known if FAW will be able to persist over winter.

Agriculture Victoria Gippsland horticulture program co-ordinator Scott Botten said fall armyworm was known to feed on more than 350 plant species, includingmaize,cotton, rice, sorghum, sugarcane, wheat and many other vegetable and fruit crops.

“Youngcaterpillars feed on leaves, creatingpinholes and giving atattered appearance. Meanwhile, mature caterpillars can causeextensive damage by

grazing on leaf stems and trunks and tunnelling into fruit,” he said.

Agriculture Victoria is holding an information sessionfor farmers in next Tuesday, September 3, between 10.30am and 2.30pm at the Lindenow Farmers Home Hotel.

Growers andagronomists in east and central Gippsland can bring samples of suspected FAW to the Agriculture Victoria office in Maffra to arrange for free LAMP testing. This test can confirm suspected FAW and assist in the management of the pest.

To regi ster for the fre ew or kshop, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/ support-and-resources/event-listing/ corn-showdown-with-fall-armyworm

Co-vendors

the upcomingGippslandPerformance Herefords sale, Gary McAinch, David Meikle, Bill Lack, Stan Walker and Bill Kee. Thisyear’s sale includes femalesfor thefirst time.

Warringa Usman U213 (AI) (PP),17months old and Lot9inthe sale.

Photos: Lyric Anderson -GAgG

Sowing the seeds of an agriculturecareer

GIPPSLAND students wanting to harvest acareer in agriculture can now sow the first seeds thanks to the introduction of anew subject at Gippsland Grammar.

Agricultural and horticultural studies has been introduced to Gippsland Grammar’s VCE curriculum from next year and the school’s senior students have overwhelmingly embraced the opportunity to learn vital skills in one of the region’s most prominent industries.

By integrating practicalagricultureand horticulture studies into its VCE offering, Gippsland Grammar is not only embracing the rich agriculturalheritage of the region, but also paving the wayfor its students to become future leaders in the field.

Deputyprincipal Bo Power is teachingthe subject and saidthe initial responsetoaddingthe subject to the 2025 curriculumwas overwhelmingly positive.

“The students have voted with the feet and early enrolment numbers suggest we will have anearly full VCE class in our first year,” he said.

“Farmers are often passionate and ‘all-in’ characters and Ifeel that our first cohort of students have similar traits and qualities.

“If the interest continuestogrow, we will expand to two VCE classes.

"Many of our studentshave avisionand or passion for farming so acreating apathway that

allows them to explore those passions will deepen their understanding of the farming systems and markets. It willalsogive the students better access to the industry or even tertiary education, which many of our students are seeking.”

Gippsland students who are not current students at the leading independent school and are keen to pursue acareer in agriculture are invited to applyfor GippslandGrammar’s ‘FinishStrong’ VCE scholarship for 2025. Launched last year, this scholarship offers a50per cent tuition fee remission and is open to current year nine students who are looking to transition to the Gippsland independent schoolfrom year 10 in anticipation of ‘finishing strong’ in VCE.

Students studying years 11 or 12 in 2025 are also invited to apply. Applications close on Thursday, September 5.

Mr Power said the importance of agriculture and horticulture in Gippslandissignificant, with 16 per cent of the local workforce employed in the field.

“Agriculture is central to Gippsland and it is also central to many Gippsland Grammar families,” he said.

“Some of our students who have already enrolled in this class are from multi-generational farming families runningmulti-milliondollarenterprises, and they see themselvesentering the industry, but also know that they need to come in and add

value. Agriculture education can fill that need.”

Mr Power visited the Gippsland Livestock Exchange in Sale recently with student Georgia Anderson, who is currently completing her VCE alongside aCertificate IV in Agriculture as part of aschool-based apprenticeship. He said the unit one and two VCE course includes astrong practical component, including practical field experiments focused on plant and animal production, as well hands on units associated with technology.

“I’m hoping that we can also access the immense knowledge of the many Grammar farming families,” he said.

“It would wonderful if we could link in apractical way, the knowledge of the parent, with the curriculum. When the learning is done locally on farm, with peoplethey know, it oftenhas even more meaning for the students.”

Interested students currently in year nine or above who would liketostudy at Gippsland Grammar in 2025 are invited to submit their academic records and evidence of notable achievements or contributions to their school or wider community as part of the Finish Strong Scholarship application. Applicants are also required to sit an online scholarship examination on Wednesday, September11.

For moreinformation visit www.gippslandgrammar.au/enrolment/scholarships

Gippsland Grammar deputyprincipal Bo Power and studentVCE Georgia Anderson visit the Gippsland RegionalLivestock Exchange in Sale in anticipation of the school introducing anew agriculturesubjectinVCE.

Photo: Contributed

CONTRACT HARVESTING

SERVICES -GIPPSLAND REGION

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

Location: Gippsland, Victoria

Resource: Steep eucalypt plantations

Quantity: 300,000 tonnes per annum

Commencement: 1July 2025

Term: Up to 5years

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

St. Mary's Primary School -Yarram is seeking to appoint adynamic CLASSROOM TEACHER

Class grade: FOUNDATION &YEAR 1

The position is ongoing, FTE 0.32

Commencement Date: 7October 2024

Application form and selection criteria can be obtained by email from: mmoore@stmyarram.catholic.edu.au

Applications can be made by Applications Close: 23rd August 2024

St Mary's Primary School promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Religious

TRUST NON-TRUSTEE SECRETARY

Maffra Cemetery Trust is seeking anon-trustee secretary. In this role you will gain hands-on experience in the operational requirements of a public cemetery. Training and guidance is provided. Applications closing on Friday 28th August 2024, are welcome from people with a range of skills and experiences including computer, administration, book-keeping, interpersonal and complaint investigation. Contact the Cemetery Chairperson by phone on 0438 411 897 for acopy of the position description.

SKILLED MACHINE OPERATOR

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

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

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

Applicants are invited for aSenior Leadership position DEPUTY PRINCIPAL Learning and Teaching

Catholic College Sale is aco-educational secondary college for Year 7to12. The College is built on Sion and Marist traditions and is seeking an enthusiastic, student-centred and achievement-focussed Deputy Principal to fulfil this position. As aChild Safe school our focus is to provide afaith-filled partnership between students, families and the College to achieve student learning goals. This is an excellent opportunity for acommitted Catholic educator who might be aspiring to Principalship to join ahigh functioning Leadership Team and work closely to plan and implement new developments while leading pedagogical change and avenues for student learning.

The successful applicant will bring their own unique gifts and talents to the leadership of Catholic College Sale which will complement those of senior management.

Applicants will:

● Have aproven record as an educator and leader.

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

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

● Be an active member of aEucharistic community

● Have appropriate experience in education with current VIT membership.

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

● Show ademonstrated commitment to the safety and wellbeing of children

● Enjoy working in adynamic environment with young people.

● Be committed to working in ateam environment.

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

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

If you would like to apply, please access the position description via www.ccsale.catholic.edu.au and forward application to principal@ccsale.catholic.edu.au or PO Box 594, Sale 3850. Applications close: 4:00pm Thursday 12 September 2024.

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

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

Tractor/agricultural experience would be preferred but not essential.

Heavy combination or Multicombination Licence is desirable but also not essential. Please email copy of resume to: info@calcimolime.com.au and for more information please call 03 5143 0075

● Enjoyable workspace with afriendly and supportive team

● Competitive remuneration package

● Be apart of and an influential role in growing McInnes as acivil construction company

McInnes Earthmoving (based in HeyfieldGippsland) has, over the last 70 years, developed into an industry-leading civil contractor completing road construction, rail and road bridges and culverts, subdivision, stormwater drainage, forestry and bulk earthworks projects.

The position is located in the Heyfield office, 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

About you:

To be successful in the Contract Administrator role, you must have aproactive attitude and initiative as well as attaining exceptional organisational, communication and writing skills.

You'll also be aperson who has great time management and planning skills, high level knowledge of Microsoft Office suite and have the demonstrated ability to work in ateam, but also self-managing.

For this role, it is highly beneficial to have had previous experience in asimilar position.

McInnes envision aContract Administrator who is greatly motivated and harmonises with our existing friendly and supportive team.

To find out more information and to apply please email georgia@mcinnesearthmoving.com.au or contact Andrew on 0429 482 518.

be 12 years or over and have own bike.

in the

for aLivestock and Herd

has aposition

Technician for our Maffra

The person we are seeking will be experienced with asound knowledge of working and handling of animals while providing herd testing, calf de-budding and freeze branding services. Duties will include setting up herd testing equipment in dairies, collection of milk samples during milking, liaising with farmers to obtain herd data and maintaining equipment.

The successful applicant will be able to work early mornings and late afternoons, have good people and computer skills, be able to think quickly and concisely and be able to work in a team environment as well as being able to work without immediate supervision out in the field on their own.

For further information or to forward your application including your cover letter/resumé detailing your full work history and qualifications and three referees, please email jhills@hico.com.au

Engagements •

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Birthdays •

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS

ROBERTS William John 'Bill'

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our brother William John Roberts 'Bill' after he succumbed to long time health issues.

Bill died peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of Saturday morning, August 24, 2024.

For anumber of years Bill resided at Laurina Lodge, Heyfield Hospital.

We wish to thank all the staff at the facility for their many kind, efficient, caring and friendly attentions to Bill to make him comfortable and give him joy throughout his long stay.

Vale Bill

STOCKHAM, Donn Bronson. 1924 -2024

Donn died peacefully in his sleep at Sale Gardens on Tuesday 20/8/2024. He will be remembered fondly by long time friends Ada and Don. Private cremationat Donn's request.

WHITEHEAD Owen 23/6/1984 -25/8/2024

Much treasured son of Harry (dec.) and Sharon, stepson of David. Much loved brother to Russell, and Fiona Aguiari. Special brother-in-law of Andrea. Adored Uncle OofJack, Jordana, and Ilaria. His bravery is unsurpassed.

Deaths

FEIDT, David Henry. Our sincere sympathy to all his family, relatives and friends. Atrue gentleman, friend proud to be called a friend, mate and neighbour will be greatly missed. Rest peacefully Buddy. The Pearson street folk.

HOUGHTON (nee Cusden) Joan

18/06/1926 -24/08/2024

Passed away peacefully at Ashleigh House.

Dearly loved wife of Geoffrey (dec.). Loving mother of Judith, Sandra, Leonie, Stuart and Ian, grandmother and great grandmother. Keen quilter and good friend to many.

Special thanks to Ashleigh House staff who took great care of mum. Please contact Semmens Funerals for details of memorial service.

LUXFORD (nee Moloney), Helen Margaret.

1/4/1956 -23/8/2024

Passed away at Sale.

Aged 68 years

Loved wife of Stan.

Cherished motherof Hayley and Daniel, and their partners Joe and Danielle. Resting peacefully 'On the wings of a small white dove' Grateful thanks to the staff at Wattleglen for their never ending care and support.

POOLEN, Kerry. Passed away suddenly doing ajob she loved. To avery loyal and kind employee, team member and friend. May you rest in peace. Sincere condolences to Geoff, Robert, James and family. Neil and Keryn Gannon and staff; Ellie, Shannon, Marita.

COOPER, Kevin Francis. Awell deserved and well overdue funeral/memorial service will be held for Kevin Francis Cooper at St Mary's Cathedral, Sale, on THURSDAY (August 29, 2024), at 1pm. With a celebration of his life to be held at the Gippy. Hotel after the service. Sally, Michael and David.

HOUGHTON (nee Cusden)

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

LUXFORD, nee Moloney.

In accordance with her wishes, Mrs Helen Margaret Luxford will be privately cremated.

ROBERTS Aprivate family service for Mr William John 'Bill' Roberts will be held.

WHITEHEAD For funeral arrangements for Mr Owen Whitehead, please check our website or phone:

GRIFFITHS, Ken. 'Griffo'

Thinking of you on your birthday and Father's Day 1/9/24.

We will celebrate your 80th with you beside us as usual.

We will toast your life, tell stories and laugh about the surprise birthday parties we managed to pull off. Remembering you every day. Love you heaps. Mally and Rags, Sandra and Darren, Kerry and James, Jennie, Darcy, Isabelle.

MASKREY, Barbara. Passed away 23/08/2022. Barb two years has passed since you left us. I think of you everyday and shed atear. Imiss you so much. Love always Phil.

SHARP (Biddy) Bridget. Ten years ago you slipped away, But you are beside me everyday. Forever loved and remembered. Your loving husband Bill, loving daughter Dorothy, son-inlaw Darren. Grandsons Andrew and Mathew. Love you forever.

Bereavement

PLEYDELL, Barrie. 27/4/1938 -9/8/024

WHITTY (Binger), Lorna Margaret. Passed away peacefully at Stretton Park Aged Care on August 19, 2024. Aged 91 years. Dearly loved wife of Ron (dec.) and John (dec.). Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Lynette and Ian, Greg and Lyn (both dec.), Wayne (dec.), Peter (dec.), John and Tracie.

Loved Nana of Dianne, Paul, Mark, Michael, Belinda, Jacinta, Renee and Josh and 15 great grandchildren.

We would like to thank the amazing staff at the Sale Hospital Critical Care unit and the staff at Stretton Park for their wonderful care of Lorna.

WIGGINS, Bill You had asmile for everyone. You had aheart of gold. You left behind memories, That we will always hold. Deepest sympathy to Belinda, Rod, Luke and Nat, Lauren and Jack. From Helen, Lea and Craig, Taryn, Andy, Kelsey, Ollie and Arlie.

WIGGINS, Bill. It is with great sadness we mourn the loss of alife member in Bill Wiggins, he was along standing member and Captain of our club. Commiserations to the family. Sale Golf Club

WHITTY (Binger)

The funeral of Mrs Lorna Margaret Whitty is appointed to leave Our Chapel, 5Queen St, Maffra after aservice commencing at 1PM TOMORROW (Wednesday August 28th 2024) for the Stratford Lawn Cemetery.

Please visit our website of the livestream of Lorna's service.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Stretton Park Hostel would be appreciated. Envelopes available at the Chapel.

Pam and families wish to thank the nurses for Barries' excellent care at Opa l/Sal eG ard ens Nursing Home for many years, the Dr's as well. Brad and Palma Semmens and Rev. David Perryman for the best ever service. People's flowers and cards and the Briag Pub afterwards. Thank you all, Pam.

GALE, Geoff. 8/1/11959 -26/8/2019 Rememberingyou is easy, We do it everyday. Missing you for the past five years, Is the heartache that never goes away. Love Netty, Kelly and Melissa. xxx

A personal message in the can say so much.

For friendly advice on how to place a message, contact

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

ROUND 18

SENIORS

(124)

BAIRNSDALE 1.33.4 5.8 9.10 (64)

GOALS: Sale:T Campbell 4JLeslie 4DEggmolesse-Smith 3JMcGuiness2 JJohnstone 2J

Mclaren BWalker MDowse CHenness. Bairnsdale: XRichards3B McCarrey 3LByrne-Jones

MCorbettR Carstairs BEST: Sale: SLange HHolmes JMcGuinessD Eggmolesse-Smith M DowseJHutchins.Bairnsdale: WMitchell LAustin MCorbett RStewart JLando LByrne-Jones TRARALGON 3.28.3

(83)

9.10 (64)

GOALS: Traralgon: HNeocleous 2DLoprese 2BRoscoe 2LD’Angelo 2T Hourigan 2K Ruyters JHamilton. Morwell: TBrown 2T Hillier 2BMcDonald CMacdonald BMcauliffeB Macfarlane JGalea. BEST:Traralgon: LD’Angelo MMembreyJ CunicoMJacobsenTHourigan TWaack.Morwell: BMacfarlane ZAnderson JLeak AQuigley BBailey CMacdonald

LEONGATHA

DROUIN 0.2 1.2

(146)

3.5 (23)

GOALS: Leongatha: JGarnham 10 JStewart 4JHume 3JGinnane 3N ArgentoJBurns Drouin: KQuirk DClebney KWalmsley BEST: Leongatha: JGarnham KDrewT Marriott J Walker JStewart JHume.Drouin: KQuirk SAmoroso JKingiEMorris JMarshall JFraser

WARRAGUL 4.0 8.5 9.6 13.11 (89) MAFFRA2.5 3.6 5.10 6.12 (48)

GOALS: Warragul: BPaul4 VCaia 3MSmart2 IWallace2 RSeniniLGarner.Maffra:BMonk 3KRenooyNChristyH Anderson. BEST: Warragul: MSmartBPaul RSeniniDSmartV Caia J Siddle.Maffra: HAndersonACarr DAdams DGrayJ Boyd ZFelsbourg WONTHAGGI

2.03.1 6.6 8.8 (56) MOE 1.03.3 5.3 7.4 (46)

GOALS: Wonthaggi: JWilliams 2R Sparkes NAndersonJBlair CMcInnes IChugg.Moe:J Chila TBaldi LForatoLMasters NProwseM Woodall BCollings. BEST: Wonthaggi: IChugg R Sparkes JBlair JBates FO’Connor KPatterson. Moe: LForatoSvan DykBDaniher LMulqueen TBlackshawJ

Magpies to playon

Liam Durkin

SOME finalround shuffling saw finals-bound teams and short colours confirmed in the Gippsland League at the weekend.

Sale secured afifth successive finals qualification, nudging in by two premiership points at the expense of Morwell.

Wonthaggi, needing to win to make finals an absolute certainly, did so, whileits South Gippslandcounterpart Leongatha confirmed the minor premiership.

Latrobe Valley rivals Moe and Traralgon could not move from the top three, yet a last-round switch saw the Maroons swap places with the Lions in second.  SALE took percentage out of the equation.

The Magpies took a10-goal win into the elimination final after trouncingBairnsdale.

Sale was relentless in its attack, and ended with ascore of 19.10 (124) to 9.10 (64) at Sale Oval.

The home sideset thescenewith afive-goal to one opening term, and continued to pile on the pain from there.

With the Redlegs out of finals contention, Sale possibly benefitted from an opposition that had checked-out on the season.

Needing to win to be any chance of playing finals, the Magpies did not take their foot off the accelerator as their fate hung on the result of the Traralgon versus Morwell game,and the matchbetweenWonthaggi and Moe. With the Power winning and the Tigers losing, theMagpies jumped fromsixth to fifth to extendtheir season by at leastone more week.

ShannenLange did Shannen Lange things for the winners, and was helped by Hudson Holmes, Jonty McGuiness, Derek Eggmolesse-Smith, Mitch Dowse and Jake Hutchins.

Tom Campbell kicked four goals, as did Magpies skipper Jack Leslie.

Campbell nowhas 37 goals for the season, and is emerging as possiblythe most unlikely smallforward to every make aleagueTeam of the Year.

Warragul, while Mitch Smart, RileySenini, Daniel Smart, Vinnie Caia (three goals) and Jesse Siddle were serviceable.

Henry Anderson, Alex Carr, David Adams, DarcyGray, JonathanBoyd and Zach Felsbourg were best for Maffra.

 HAVING been in the top five for 11 straight weeks, aloss in the final round meant Morwell dropped out of the finals race.

The Tigers’ seasoncametoanend in fairly tame circumstances, going down to Valley rival Traralgon 12.11 (83) to 9.10 (64).

The visitors were well in the game at the main break, trailing the Maroons by only 14 points.

Athree goal to one third term however gave Traralgon a31-point lead at the last break, which ultimately proved to be more than enough.

Traralgon waswell-servedbyLuis

D’Angelo, Mitch Membrey, Jordan Cunico, Max Jacobsen, Tye Hourigan, and former Morwell player Tristen Waack, adding salt into the Tigers’ wound.

Waack,who has been with Northern Bullants in the VFL for most of the season, got his fourth game in for Traralgon at the weekend,meaning he is now qualified for finals.

Burkely Macfarlane,Zac Anderson, Judah Leak, Aidan Quigley, Boyd Bailey and Cody Macdonald played well in the loss for Morwell.



WONTHAGGI continued its journey as premiership smokey, making it five wins in arow after edging past Moe in an 8.8 (56) to 7.4 (46) arm wrestle.

Needing to win to guarantee finals, Wonthaggi got the resultitdesired after overcoming aslighthalf-time deficit at home. Leading by nine points at the last change, thefinal scoreboard returned virtually the same margin.

Isaac Chugg was best for the winners, followed by Ryan Sparkes, Jack Blair, Josh Bates, Fergus O’Connor and Kaj Patterson.

 THE greatest dead-rubber of all played out as predicted. Leonghatha, with the minor premiership sewn-up four weeks ago, warmed up for finals by annihilating Drouin 22.14 (146) to 3.5 (23) Kye Quirk, Seb Amorosso, Jordan Kingi, Jarrod Marshall, Jack Fraser and Ed Morris, in his final game for Drouin before taking up the coaching job at Garfield, battled hard for the Hawks.

Jenson Garnham had aday out, kicking 10 goals, while Jarrod Stewart had to make do with four and Jack Hume three. The trio received plenty of supply from Kim Drew, Tom Marriott, and Jay Walker.

GOALS: Maffra: AWright3HBurgiel 2W Gieschen 2JOldham2 EStables MHuts KBrady WRoss JBristow CBourke. Warragul:D Macfarlane BEST: Maffra: WGieschenR Phelan S Tudor JOldham BDowsett AMcKenzie.Warragul: JOrlickiLGronowC Williamson JNeville SDennis DPearson

12.9 24.12 28.15 (183) DROUIN 0.0 1.0

(12)

GOALS: Leongatha: FMateria 6T McRae5 DHume 4T Hall 2J Lamers 2J Pellicano 2N Fixter 2BGrabham Andrews2JSchelling JHayes RKelly.Drouin: JDepasquale RStapleton. BEST: Leongatha: JLamers DHume FMateria NFixterT Hall JPellicano.Drouin: CStone CNickels J Depasquale BLucas RStapleton JSmart

TRARALGON 2.3 3.6 6.7 7.12 (54) MORWELL 2.2 4.7 5.10 5.12 (42)

GOALS: Traralgon: RAdams2LMcDonald CRuyters JJackwayRGuiney PAkram. Morwell: LPatterson 2Z Cantrill GCheshireDMakepeace. BEST: Traralgon: RAdams LMcDonald J JackwayCRuyters PAkram FKennedy.Morwell:T Weatherill GCheshireJ BlackfordN Wilson THutchinson LPatterson

WillMitchell,Matt Corbett, Randall Stewart, Josh Lando, Lachlan Byrne-Jones and Bairnsdale playing-coach Logan Austin (in his final game for the Redlegs), saw out the visitors’ seasons on apositive. Sale has abig week ahead, with its seniors and reserves in cutthroat elimination finals.

 MAFFRA played for pride against Warragul, and that pride was somewhat dented, as the Gulls condemned the Eagles to the wooden spoon in the battle between ninth and 10th.

Maffratrailedatevery change, bringing its season to an indifferent end at Western Park.

The Eagles were only20points down at three-quarter-time, but faded badly in the fourth term, managing only 1.2(8) to 4.5 (29).

Bayley Paul led the way withfour goals for

Wonthaggi has put together abarnstorming run, losingonly one game since the half-way mark of the year.

Subconsciously perhaps, theLions hadless to play for giventhey had the double-chance secured, and might not be overly concerned giventhe final marginwas only 10 points against the in-form team of the competition.

Moe senior leaders Riley Baldi and Harri Sim did not play at the weekend, nor did leading forward Harry Pepper. In what is looming as agood problem to have, Pepper’s replacement was Tom Blackshaw, who ended up getting in the best Lucas Forato was also in the best for the Lions, having re-joined the squad late in the season. Others to attract attention were Scott van Dyk,Ben Daniher, Luke Mulqueenand youngster Jordy Shields.

Qualifying final, Saturdayat Maffra Recreation Reserve: FOOTBALL: Seniors: 2.20pm: Traralgon vs Moe. Reserves: 12.30pm: Maffra v Bairnsdale. Under 18s: 10.45am: Leongatha v Traralgon. Under 16s: 9am: Moe vMaffra.

NETBALL:

Agrade: 2.35pm: Drouin vWarragul. Bgrade: 1.20pm: Leongatha vMoe. Cgrade: 12.15pm: Drouin vMaffra. Under 17s: 11.10am: Leongatha v Bairnsdsale. Under 15s: 10.05am: Sale vTraralgon. Under 13s: 9am: Maffra vTraralgon. Elimination final, Sundayat Bairnsdale City Oval:

FOOTBALL: Seniors: 2.20pm: Wonthaggi vs Sale.

Reserves: 12.30pm: Traralgon vSale. Under 18s: 10.45am: Maffra vDrouin. Under 16s: 9am: Wonthaggi v Bairnsdale.

NETBALL:

Agrade: 2.35pm: Traralgon v Bairnsdale.

Bgrade: 1.20pm: Traralgon v Wonthaggi.

Cgrade: 12.15pm: Leongatha v Wonthaggi.

Under 17s: 11.10am: Sale vDrouin. Under 15s: 10.05am: Moe vMaffra. Under 13s: 9am: Sale vMoe.

Lange to be named MVP

SALE midfielder Shannen Lange has the GippslandLeagueMost Valuable Player award signed, sealed andonly awaiting delivery.

While the final votes are still to be tallied, Lange had an unassailable leadheadinginto the final round at the weekend.

Warragul: CMacLean 2L

2KBoi HJinks IKittelty CMcintosh. Maffra: J McQuillen 2A Watt WRuthberg.

Warragul: DPaul

LCarterM Cahill KBoi.Maffra:SRichards MRondon CHenryJ Scriven AWrightJ Fitt

(10) GOALS: Traralgon: OHaberl 2RRutter JMoloney JZappulla GRuach. Morwell: NGiardina. BEST: Traralgon: ABlackfordHHenry BHagleyO Haberl JMoloney WAmbler.Morwell:L EffenbergSCheffers OHoweCPage GJiath NGiardina

(54)

(37)

GOALS: Leongatha: JGarnham 3MCroatto2KBerryman IBolge AWilliams.Drouin: RBaker 3M Williames ECroucher BEST: Leongatha: FDonohue KMcGrath JGarnham JCallahan T Gannon KBerryman. Drouin: RBaker MWilliames WVirtue ECroucher JObernhumer KSmith

Votes for the mostvaluable player are given by both coachesfrom each game on separate three, two, one cards.

Lange was ahead by eight votes from Moe’s Riley Baldi before round 18 got underway.

If that didn’t make it official enough,Baldi did not playatthe weekend, meaning Lange’s award became even more of aformality.

Langewas given six votes for his performance in the round 17 draw against Morwell.

This year’s MVP makes it three for Lange (2021, 2022), to go withtwo TroodAward and Rodda Medals as the best player in the Gippsland League as voted by the umpires (2021, 2023).

The Sale local returned to the Magpies in 2021 following a100-game VFL career which included apremiership with Port Melbourne in 2017.

Should he win athird Trood Award and Rodda Medal this year, he will become the only Sale player to do so.

Athird league medal would also see Lange join esteemed company with Traralgon legend Greg Morley (who won in 1992,1998 and 2003) and John Gallusasthree-timewinners.

Gallusholds the distinction of winning league medals at threedifferent clubs: Bairnsdale, Maffraand Warragul in 1969, 1970 and 1975 respectively.

midfielderShannen Lange haswon his thirdGippsland League Most Valuable Player award. Photo: File

Kangaroos roll on, as Dogs depart

From page 32

THE game began with afirst quarter blitz, followed by asomewhat even contest. However the second quarterbegan with Heyfield picking up exactly where it had left off.

Sale City wonthe firstclearance,but it was interceptedbyHeyfield defenderThomas Marchesi, who took off as he frequently did throughout the day. The Kangaroos transitioned from defence to attackinamatterofseconds, with Finn Stephenson converting his set shot.

Minutes later,the Bulldogs finallygot on the board, but it was only aminor score.Sale City’s Flynn Read was intervenedwith in acontest, but his set shot sprayed wide. Nonetheless, their scoreboard had moved.

As the quarter moved toward the midway point, scoring had hit alull, which wasa positive for Sale City, but still they weren’t chipping away at the margin.

Both sides entered their forward 50s on multiple occasionswithoutascore, but Heyfield would take full advantageofanother defensive error,when Humphreys had his arms chopped 15 metres out, directly in front, kicking his side’s 10thstraight goal.

Despite being 66 points down midway through the second term, Sale Citymadeitdifficult for Heyfield to get much further away, finally kicking its first goal of the game 21 minutes into the second quarter.

The Bulldogs’ momentum continued, with repeat entryafterrepeat entry, yet minorscores were the only ones ticking.

Another forward 50 entry to the Bulldogs saw Kane Martin mark on the siren. He went back and made no mistake to keepthe game alive at half time, the score reading 10.8 (68) to 2.7 (19).With the chance to icethe game in thethird quarter, Heyfield certainly started as if that was the plan.

TysonBirss got things going with asnap around the bodyunderpressure by SaleCitydefenders. The Kangaroos had two in five minutes when Humphreys broke another chain of Bulldogs’ run withanothersnap goingthrough the big sticks. Heyfield began to run away with it, leading by 63.

Minutes tickedbywith no majors. Sale City assumed much of the possession, slowingthe game down with the ballinits hands, whenthe Bulldogs possibly should’ve been sending Hail Mary’s to cut the margin down.

Graham slottedanotheragainstthe run for Heyfield midway through the quarter,asSale City continued to miss its opportunities, while the Kangaroos oppositely weren’t.

Withthe quarter coming to aclose, scoring started to free up abit more. The Bulldogs had their chance to kick their first for the quarter, but Martin’s shot went wayward -out on the full. Heyfield ran coastto-coast from the turnover, ending with Graham kicking another around the body.

With not alot of stoppage in the third quarter, the siren was expected abit earlier, but it didn’t come when expected. Sale City still had time.

From the centre bounce, the Bulldogs surged forward, forcingaball-up inside 50. From the stoppage, the ball was palmed down and expertly converted for the Bulldogs’ first of the quarter.

Theyaddedanotherthrough OstinWaugh in the goal square, following aHeyfield turnover as they attempted to exit its defensive 50.

Moments later, as the siren was about to sound, Sale City best-and-fairest Cooper Whitehill kicked another from astoppage, completing athree-goal run in four minutes before the siren sounded.

Heyfield led by 60 at three-quarter-time, but it was on the brink of being much worse.

The message at the Heyfield huddle was to finish the Bulldogs off and to win the last quarter, while for Sale City, it was told asimilar message to that of quarter time -roll the dice.

The floodlights turned on as clouds began to cover the reserve, rain was on its way.

Burton got the party started for the Kangaroos withthe firstgoalwithin the opening minuteofthe final term, dribbling one through an unattended goal square.

Sale City pegged acouple back in the next 10 minutes through Martin, but Graham continued to find himself in handy positions, cancelling out the Bulldogs’ scores.

IT’S not often during finals time players get to sit in the sun in front of and backed by their hometown fans and live through a game like that.

Hostingtheir first day of North Gippsland Football-Netball League finals action since joining the competition in 2021, the Jets defeated Woodside in the qualifying final, 13.8 (86) to 12.9 (81) in amatch that displayed all types of swings and storylines culminating in playing coach Tom Hutton booting the match-winning goal.

The Jets led by six points with aquarter to go. Early in the final term, astoppage was won by Woodside along the half-forward line with the ball falling into Cam Whiteoak’s hands who perfectly palmed the ball ahead to Rowan Pepper, allowing him to run straight ahead for goal tying the game up 62-all.

Added inspiration waspresented to YYN as Hutton fought through rib pain and returned to the field giving his side the feeling that they weren’t going to fall to by the wayside.

During the final 15 minutes, the game was well andtruly iced. Bothsides kicked two goals each as thegame opened up atad more, but the result was set in stone.

Heyfield claimed amassive win over one of the in-form teams in the competition to keep their season alive. Kyle Graham was best-on for Heyfield, kicking six goals. Also highlighted was Robert McMillan, Heasley, Humphreys,IsaacWheeler, and Marchesi. For the exiting Sale City,Hudson Tollner, Whitehill, Chris Kelf, Martin, Bradley McKay, and Mitchell Evans were stand-outs.

SaturdayatStephenson Park, Sale:

FOOTBALL: Seniors:2.25pm: TTUv YYN. Reserves:noon: YYN vWoodside. Thirds:9.45am: TTUv Churchill.

:1pm:Woodside vGormandale. Cgrade:noon: Churchill vTTU. Dgrade:11am: Woodside vYYN Under 17s:10am: TTUv Glengarry Under 15s:9am: Sale City vWoodside.

The time was now.

What Hutton was calling for from his team finally came to fruition as aworkmanlike and confident YYN unit gained and gained on their opponents responding with the next three goals, two coming from MacDonald and another from Burnett that sent it out to a hefty margin with the game nearing time-on.

Woodside answered the call out of the middle with it all-or-nothing at this point and find the ball through the middle posts with Liam Hard in the goal square.

YYN preceded to withstand adecent chunk of time with several repeat entries into the Wildcats forward line before eventuallythey worked them down chipping the ball around and finding Whiteoakwho bombed adeep goal home bringing the margin back to five points.

Pressure began to set, only minutes ago it seemed as if the Jets were destined to send themselves through to the second semi with littlefaze -but it was no thrown up in the air as Farmer snapped for his third goal with no defence in front of him to give the Wildcats a one-point edge well and truly into red time.

ARiley Byrne tackle on Whiteoak, who was in agood position to kick the match-sealing goal for the Wildcats, gave YYN the jolt it needed.

With the Jets back into attack, Hutton picked up the ball spun away towards the boundary line on the left side and let rip a shot on his favoured left boot that kept far before turning in. On-lookers leapt to their feet androared with glee as the goal umpire reaffirmed what they knew to be true and while plenty teammates around the contest surrounded Hutton.

Less than aminutelater, the siren sounded with Jets players and supporters’ hands in the air while Woodside appeared lost as to what had occurred.

Dylan Brooks received the best-on-ground honours for the Jets streamingoff half-back followed by BenMorrow,JameDeVirgilio, Byrne, MacDonald (five goals) and Lucas Fry. Woodside performedadmirably especially through the guts with Mark Collison, Whiteoak,Josh Kennedy, Ben Johnson, Michael O’Sullivan(three goals) and Matt Dyke recognised in defeat.

Blake Metcalf-Holt

Heyfield seniors kicked 18 goals on the waytoa 58-point victoryinSunday’s

final in Rosedale.

Sale City’sFlynn Readconteststhe ball in the air with Heyfield players ScottAnderson and Max van der Zwart. Photos:Erika Allen

CHEYENNE

ROUND

Friday,August23

Melbournevs Collingwood(MCG)(N)

Saturday,August24

Geelongvs.WestCoastEagless(GMHBA)

Richmondvs.GoldCoastSuns(MCG)

Hawthornvs.NorthMelbourne(UT)

BrisbaneLionsvs.Essendon(G)(N)

SydneySwansvs.AdelaideCrows(SCG)(N)

Sunday,August25

WesternBulldogsvs.GWSGiants(MS)

Carltonvs.StKilda(MRVL)

FremantleDockersvs PortAdelaide (OS)(N)

Channing, Bombers among EGFNL’s best

STRATFORD’S Lachlan Channing won the East Gippsland Football-Netball League seniorfootball best-and-fairest awardlast week.

Channing claimed the Stewart Wren Medal after receiving 22 votes. Boisdale-Briagolong’s Matthew Wilkinson was runner-up on 22.

Theseniorgoal kickingaward went to Jack Betts from Wy Yung,who booted 53 goals during the home-and-away season.

As well as winning the goal kicking award with73majors, Danny Pratttook out the reserves best-and-fairest award, the Wally Trinder Medal,with 23 votes,fourclear of

Lindenow’s Bronson Ritchie.

The Chris Woodward Medal for under 17.5 best-and-fairest went to Brayden Fenner from Orbost-Snowy Rovers with 15 votes, three ahead of Boisdale-Briagolong’s Patrick Lee.

Fenner’steammate Angus Joiner won the under 17.5 goal kicking with 41.

Two Boisdale-Briagolong playerswon netball best-and-fairest awards.

TarynCunningham wasthe top player in Bgrade,receiving 20 votes, two more than Mikaela Witherow from Lakes Entrance.

The Cgrade award went to Bomber Emily Janson, who received 25 votes.

Wy Yung’s Caitlyn Wright was arunaway winnerofthe Agrade best-and-fairest, claiming 33 votes, nine more than Lucknow’s Hayley Morton.

The Dgrade awardwas won by Keshia Harrison of Lindenow.

Perry Elliott from Lucknow won the under 17 award by one vote, with Boisdale-Briagolong’s Demi Scriven sharing runner-up honours with Wy Yung’s Sienna Anderson.

Claudia Blandford of Lindenowwon the under 15 best-and-fairest.

Bombers to play prelim final

Blake Metcalf-Holt

THE East Gippsland football finals opened at the weekend, and to no surprise, the best teams playing against each other produce the best games.

Lucknow advanced to the grand final after defeating Boisdale-Briagalong 14.9 (93) to 13.13 (91) at Bairnsdale City Oval on Saturday.

Agusty wind was present through amajority of the headlining match-up meaning whoever had it to theirbenefit had an extraordinary advantage in terms of gaining territory.

The Magpies got on top early with the Bombers inaccurate to begin proceedings, ending in a3.3 (21) to 1.4 (10) first quarter.

As minor premier and prolongedcontender in East Gippsland, Boisdale-Briagalong fought back withanadded power,piling on plenty in the second term, making Lucknow defenders work tirelessly while limiting the Magpies'opportunities at the other end.

The Magpies were stillefficient, addingthree straight goals for the term,but Bosidale-Briagalong worked itself back into the game with no mercy tying the game up by half-time 39-all. Entering the secondhalf, it was hard to separate either.

Both kicked accurately with Lucknownailingthe extra major to give them afive-point lead heading into the final term.

The Bombers weren’ttogive in, however, and hit the front during the last stretch with both teams in danger of fallinginto atough matchupthe week following against Wy Yung.

Lucknow founditinthe endwith some impressive performances, the Magpies look towards their first senior premiership since 2012.

JakeRichardscollected the best-on-ground for the winners followed by Jackson Smith with four goals, Joel Mcnamara, Connor McAuliffe, Ryan Halford and Ashley Smith.

Billy Marshall, Tom Jolly (two goals), Jackson Glenane, Kelvin Porter,Callan Egan (four)and Will Brunt (two) were recognised in defeat.

STRATFORD'S season came to end on Sunday, with Wy Yung winning comfortably, 13.10 (88) to 10.5 (65), again at Bairnsdale City Oval.

After just clinging to finalsinthe concluding round of the home-and-away season, the Swans understood it was do-or-die and had to stick it early. They did so, capitalising on the opportunities that presented their way while the Tigers struggled to convert. The first quarter ended Stratford 3.2 (20) to Wy Yung 2.6 (18). The reigning premiers then flippedthe switchas

they were equally aware thatthis could be the final game of their 2025 season and efficiently sent six goals through for the quarter with only one minor score and holding the Swans to asingle goal.

Leading by 28 points, the game was in their hands and with the experience and poise the Tigers unit possessed, they were not going to let it slip.

Stratford narrowly outscored Wy Yung in the second half but couldn’t put together enough of arun to form acomeback thus ending its season.

Lachlan Channing was judged best afield for the winners followed by Jack Bacon withsix goals, Lewis Bolton, Harry Langford, Cooper Dixon and Jackson Cottrell.

Bradley Daniel, Joel Waters, Norman Betts, Harry Kelllow (four goals), Nathan Dennison and Jack Overend were acknowledged for the Swans.

Bosidale-Briagalong now play Wy Yung -a rematch of last year's grand final -inthe preliminary final this Saturday at Lindenow Recreation Reserve.

PRELIMINARYFINAL

SundayatLindenowRecreation Reserve:

FOOTBALL:

Seniors:2.15pm: Boisdale-Briagolong vWy Yung.

Reserves:12.20pm: Lucknow vStratford. Under 17.5s:Lakes Entrance vOrbost-Snowy Rovers.

NETBALL:

Agrade:2pm: Wy Yung vOrbost-SnowyRovers. Bgrade:1pm:WyYungv Lakes Entrance. Cgrade:noon: Wy Yung vStratford. Dgrade:11am: Boisdale-Briagolong vLakes Entrance. Under 17s:10am:Boisdale-Briagolong vWy Yung. Under 15s:9am: Lucknow vPaynesville.

FOOTBALL NETBALL -EAST GIPPSLAND

Cgrade netball best-and-fairestEmily Janson (BoisdaleBriagolong, left) with runner-up RachaelGueco(Orbost-Snowy Rovers).

Senior best-and-fairest LachlanChanning (Stratford).

Bgrade best-and-fairest Taryn Cunningham (Boisdale-Briagolong, right)with runner-up Mikaela Witherow (Lakes Entrance)

Bronson Ritchie (Lindenow). Prattalso

Photos: EGFNL Authorised

Winning doubles forMaher,Shinn

David Braithwaite

TRAINER Ciaron Maher and jockey Blake Shinn

recorded winning doubles during Thursday's Sale race meeting.

Conditions at Greenwattlewereideal for racing, with clearskies andatrack rated "soft six".

Shinn's first win of the day came in race four, the three-year-old maiden plate over 1100 metres, on board Blackberry Bomb.

The Simon Zahra-trained filly, who was an unlucky runner-up on debut at Sandown three weeks earlier,camefromthird last in thehome

straight to finish strongly and win by ahead from Grizinger Sun, trained by Danny O'Brien.

Awin in the first leg of the $5 million Inglis Race Series gave connections of Blackberry Bomb $100,000 in bonuses, going along way to repaying her$300,000prize tag.

Shinn's second success came in race seven, the benchmark 58 handicap over 1400m, riding Pardon

My French for Maher. The four-year-old marewas too good, notching back-to-back wins, while I'm Dynamite,trainedatSalebySusie Wells, came third after being at the back entering the straight.

Maher's first win came in race five, the Rising Stars Race over 1200m, with War Drama, ridden by

Netball scoreboard

EAST GIPPSLAND –SEMI FINALS

Agrade: second semi-two: Lucknow 42 def Wy Yung 25; first semi-final: Orbost-SnowyRovers48 def Boisdale-Briagolong 38

Bgrade:second semi-final: Boisdale-Briagolong 49 def Wy Yung 27; first semi-final: Lakes Entrance 41 def Lucknow 31

Cgrade:second semi-final: Lucknow 30 def Wy Yung 27; first semi-final: Stratford25def BoisdaleBriagolong 24.

Dgrade:second semi-final: Wy Yung 31 defBoisdaleBriagolong 29; first semi-final: Lakes Entrance 37 def Lucknow 29

Under17s:second semi-final:Lakes Entrance38 def Boisdale-Briagolong 26; first semi-final: Wy Yung 28 def Lucknow 26. Under 15s:second semi-final: Lindenow 40 def Lucknow 40; first semi-final: Paynesville 32 def Stratford28.

NORTH GIPPSLAND -FINALSWEEK 1

Agrade: qualifying final: Churchill 38 def Heyfield; elimination final: Woodside 49 def TTU45.

Bgrade:qualifyingfinal: YYN 58 def Woodside 53; elimination final: Gormandale 46 defHeyfield 37

Cgrade:qualifying final: Sale City def Churchill 37; elimination final: TTU41def YYN35.

Dgrade:qualifying final: TTU36dWoodside 34; elimination final: YYN 41 def Rosedale 39.

Under 17s:qualifying final: Rosedale 27 def TTU21; elimination final: Glengarry 40 def Churchill 15

Under 15s:qualifying final: Heyfield 41 def Sale City 31;elimination final: Woodside 31 dRosedale 17

GIPPSLAND -ROUND 18

Agrade: Bairnsdale 43 def Sale29, Warragul87def Maffra 30, Traralgon 46 def Morwell 28, Moe57def Wonthaggi 33, Leongatha 56 def Drouin; ladder: Moe 70,Drouin 56, Warragul 52, Traralgon 44, Bairnsdale 38,Wonthaggi 36, Leongatha 32, Morwell 22,Sale 8, Maffra 2.

Bgrade:Sale 44 def Bairnsdale 42, Warragul 76 def Maffra 31,Traralgon 70 def Morwell 36, Moe 49 def Wonthaggi 38, Drouin 54 def Leongatha 44; ladder: Drouin 60, Leongatha 58 (159.14per cent), Moe 58 (127.82),Traralgon 56,Wonthaggi 34, Warragul 32, Sale 30, Morwell 22, Maffra 6, Bairnsdale 4.

Sarah Field, finishing alengthand aquarter ahead. The meet began with It's My Party passing favourite Cleopatra Link in the shadows of the post to take out the 2200m maiden plate and her first win from 16 starts.

In race two, the 1400m maiden plate, Dougal Mckeen hit the leadatthe top of the home straight and held off afast-finishing It'sreel to win by anose.

Entering race three, the 1100m maiden for four year olds and older, as favourite, Kundalini was at the front throughout,and out-ran Ten Warriors to win by less than half abody length.

Bold Print, trained by Rachael Cunningham at Pakenham and ridden by Jason Maskiell, held of

challenges from well-fancied Naval Academy and Peace Treaty, to win race six, the benchmark 70 handicap over 1000m. The four-year-old gelding has won three of his past four starts since July 1. The meet finished with Delightful Journey, trained at Moe by ChristineSexton and ridden by Teo Nugent, claimingrace eight, the 1717m benchmark 64 handicap.

The seven-year-old gelding moved to the lead on the back straight and was never headed, taking his first victory since the Bairnsdale Cup in March last year. Racing returnstoGreenwattle on Wednesday, September 11.

Cgrade:Bairnsdale 51 def Sale 33, Maffra 53 def Warragul 34, Morwell 33 def Traraglon 31,Wonthaggi 23 def Moe 20, Leongatha 44 def Drouin40; ladder:Morwell 62, Drouin58, Maffra 56, Leongatha 48, Wonthaggi 40 (110.52), Traralgon40(103.36), Bairnsdale 24, Moe 12 (67.93), Warragul 12 (67.93), Sale 8.

Under 17s:Bairnsdale 37 def Sale 28, Maffra 47 def Warragul 27,Traralgon 49 def Morwell 17,Wonthaggi 41 def Moe 19,Leongatha 33 drew Drouin 33; ladder: Traralgon 72,Leongatha 60, Bairnsdale 52, Sale 46, Drouin 42, Wonthaggi 36, Maffra 28, Moe 16,Morwell 8, Warragul 0.

Under15s: Bairnsdale 42 def Sale 26, Maffra 43 def Warragul 22, Traralgon 38 def Morwell 21,Moe 41 def Wonthaggi 26, Drouin 34 def Leongatha 33; ladder: Bairnsdale 70,Sale 62, Traralgon 52, Moe 44, Maffra 32, Drouin 28 (83.68), Wonthaggi 28 (75.72), Morwell 24, Leongatha 20, Warragul 0.

Under 13s:Sale 23 drew Bairnsdale 23, Maffra 52 def Warragul 5, Traralgon 55 def Morwell 5, Moe 52 defWonthaggi 2, Leongatha 55 def Drouin 12; ladder: Leongatha 68, Maffra 60, Traralgon 52, Sale 50, Moe 48, Bairnsdale 34, Wonthaggi 16,Morwell 8, Warragul 0.

Pardon My French,ridden by Blake Shinn, wins race seven.

Blackberry Bomb, ridden by Blake Shinn, wins race four. Photos: ScottBarbour,Racing Photos

Roos end Dogs’ season

TomHayes

WITH everything on the line, the North Gippsland football elimination final was aone-sided affair on Sunday.

Sale City and Heyfield filtered into fourthand fifth respectively after 18 rounds, having to play each other for progression in the finals picture.

Heading to the Rosedale Recreation Reserve, the fifthplaced Kangaroos stole the show, dominating the Bulldogs 18.16 (124) to 9.12 (66), setting up a first semi-final against Woodside this Sunday at Glengarry.

The intensity between the two teams was highasthe game got underway. Both sides went inside 50 without ascore, perhaps showing flashes of what was to come.

Fourminutes into the opening term, Heyfieldran coast-to-coast on the far wing,asthe kick inside 50 found Kyle Graham on the run, who ran inside and snapped truly around his body for the first score of the game.

The Kangaroos doubled theirleadjust minutes later, and all of asudden Sale City’s intensity was gone, about five minutes into the first quarter.

The Bulldogs’ intensity was replaced with hot temper, which cost them dearly.

Heyfield made it three straight when adownfield free kick on the goal linemade for the easiest of conversions.

With all of the run, Heyfield’s LiamHeasleyreboundedfrom defence after the following centre bounce, kicking long inside his forward 50. Abump on the possession sent afree kick downfield again.

Sale City players became frustrated, forcing aphysical nature uponHeyfield which cost them another 50-metre penalty.

Heyfield kicked its second from the goal line and fourth for the game after just 12 minutes was played.

Aquick kick out of the pack found its way through the big sticks for the Kangaroos minutes later. Even when it looked like

they weren’t tryingtoscore, they were.

Eighteen minutes into the first term, and Heyfieldwas first to the ballevery time. Shaun Humphreyswas excellent on the lead, marking out in front, and convertingfromthe arc to make it six straight for the Kangaroos. It was getting uglyfor Sale City now, who were beginning to take the form of witches hats, and only 20 minutes had surpassed.

The Bulldogs barged their way forward for arare inside 50, which was marked by Sale City coach Jacob Schuback. When it finally looked like they would have their first score, his kick driftedacross the face, hitting the top of the behind post. Five minutes later, the Bulldogs continued to put in work, making it more difficult for Heyfield to stretch upon their lead. But their good work would be undone by split-second decisions that would hinder their progress.

An arrant push in aruck contest gave away another free kick to Heyfield in front of goal, as the Kangaroos nailedtheir seventh in arow. With the siren nearing, Heyfield continued to surge inside 50 with everyopportunity, and when they did, they went deep to the square.

Seemingly out-marking Sale City at every instance, Heyfield’s Daniel Burton decided to jump head and shoulders above the rest,takinga monster mark in the goal squareonthe back of the Bulldogs’ defenders. He slottedit, with the siren soundingshortly after and the gamereaching atipping point already -Heyfieldled 8.4 (52) to nothing.

At quarter-time, the message was clear to the Bulldogs who hada mountain to climb. Schuback told histroopsto lifttheir intensity and begin to take risks through the corridor. Shouts of “reset” and “chip away” sparked somefight in the Bulldogs as they entered the second term.

Continued page 27

Hudson Tollner,who wasnamed Sale City’s best player,breaks through the pack in the right forwardpocket as Heyfield players swarmed around him.

Photo: ErikaAllen