Gippsland Times Tuesday 2 May 2023

ANZAC COVERAGE

INSIDE

BURIED TREASURE

Soil and rock samples will be collected off the Wellington coast to help design the proposed Star of the South offshore wind project.

Star of the South chief executive Charles Rattray and Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio were in the region on Friday to officially announce the commencement of works.

EASTGIPPY FIELD DAY

PAGE 16

RECORD BREAKER

SPORT

THE best ships are red and white after all.

A50-strong crewwillspend five weeks at sea,collecting soiland rock samples from beneath the seafloor off the Wellington coast to help design the proposed Star of the South offshore wind energy project.

Samples will be taken from up to 70 metres beneath the seabed, in aproject led by international geo-data specialists Fugro.

Dignitaries gathered at QUBE’s Barry Beach Terminal (near Welshpool) on Fridaytoformally announce the works, and tour the Fugro vessel.

Amongthem was Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, along with Star of the South chief executive Charles Rattray and Fugro regional director Shalu Shajahan.

The BarryBeach Terminal is the main supply depot for Esso Australia’s Bass

Strait oiland gas operations, and facilitates the transportation of equipment andsuppliestomore than 20 offshore platforms

Ms D’Ambrosio welcomedthe works, saying they would continue astrong legacy of energy in Gippsland.

“This will be the first marine geotechnicalcampaigninAustralia for offshore wind energy -which is ahuge achievement for Victoria as it makes the transition from coaltorenewables,” she said.

“Thisevent is such an important next step in thecreation of Australia’s first offshorewind energy industry, and Victoria will deliver that.

“This geotechnical survey that we are markingisthe firstofits kind in Australia for the offshore wind energy industry. It is amajor milestone for the development of the country’s first offshore wind energy industry, here, hosted by the Gippsland region.

“That is really such afundamentally and significant focus for us, when we

understand and acknowledge the role that the Gippsland region has played for many decades in delivering energy.”

Investigations are being funded in part by the state government’s Energy Innovation Fund.

“From our $108 million Energy Innovation Fund, we’ve carved off about $19.5 million for the Star of the South to do works such as pre-construction surveys,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.

“These things do not happen by accident, they happen with having clear, ambitious targets.”

Those ambitious targets include having 95 per cent of the state’s electricity comingfromrenewable sources by 2035

However, withthe imminent closureof coal-fire powered stations at Yallourn in 2028 andLoy Yang Ain2035, questions surrounding the likely void between 2028 and 2035 continued to linger.

With the state government announcing the return of the SEC at last year’s election, Ms D’Ambrosiosaidthe returning workforce was set to play akey role.

“Certainly the SEC is an agency that will help to accelerate our drive toward creating 95 per cent renewable energy by 2035.Iwas very pleased to launch the Pioneer Investment Mandatefor the SEC, and we’re wanting to get off and running as quickly as we can to get the firstproject, or projects backed by the SEC, built by the SEC, and we’re not wasting aday,” she said.

“Rightnow,weare wanting to find projects that are ready to be built, we’re looking to have the first projects selected by the end of this year.

Following formalities, attendees took the opportunity to tour the Fugrovessel Interestingly, patronswererequired to wear masks on board, and were shown around the control room, getting afeel for life at sea.

Spotting atable tennis table folded up, acrewmember quipped how it can be quite challenging playing ping pong on board aboat tackling rough seas.

Continued Page 10

Liam Durkin

Photo: Contributed

Help shape the futureofWellington Libraries

Victoria Police safety survey

WELLINGTON Shire Council has launched a process to get feedbackfrom the public to improve the library network.

The main aim of the consultation is to seek the views of the community and understand the attitudes towardsthe current library serviceoffering, and to support the development of anew four-year library services plan.

Feedback is sought on facility access and use, visibility, programming, cultural engagement, learning opportunities, collections,connectivity, and the operations of the entire Wellington Shire library network. Engagement will be basedon emerging public library trends, service benchmarking and meeting theneeds and expectations of the Wellington Shire community.

It will also focus on continuing to establish the local library network as awelcoming community hub with skilled staff to provideguidanceand support across arange of areas.

With afocus on sustainable growth, the library services plan will set out along-term strategy, aligned with the council’s broader community and cultural goals.

Wellington Shire Council MayorIan Byesaid that our public libraries playa vital role in the community, providing awelcoming, and safe space for people of all ages and abilities.

“With over 180,000 visitors per year, we are now lookingtomaximise opportunities and invest in resourcesand activities that are important to our localcommunities. Iencouragethe community to

getinvolved andcome forward with theirviews about what the future of our libraries look like to them” Cr Bye said.

Council is inviting library users and the general public to have their say.

An online survey is now open and will run until May 14, 2023.

Please visit the Your WellingtonYour Say website at your.wellington.vic.gov.au/libraryreview

Anyone interested in participatingcan also visit their nearest librarytoprovide feedback in-branch. In addition, council will host community dropin sessions, where locals are welcome to provide their ideasonthe future of librariesintheir communities.

Poolice encourage residents of Wellington and the broader Victorian communityto participate. Image: Victoria Police

POLICE have launchedtheir annual Community Sentiment Survey in which local residents can get online and tell them their safety concerns within the Wellington Shire. The survey will run until May 7. If you live, work or socialise in Victoria, have your say about your safety concerns, preferences when engaging with police, and experiences of police in your community. Victoria Police will use your responses to informlocal safety plans and organisational priorities.

Complete the surveybyscanning the QR code or going to https://go.vic.gov.au/3lNpzIL

Mila Rose Budd,born6pounds 5ounces at 11.37pm on April 11 to proud Yarram parents Hayley Barlowand Aiden Budd. A sister to Everleigh

Dallas Foxx McDonough, born9pounds 6ouncesat 6.05pm on April 13 to proud Saleparents SarahLowen and Brendan McDonough. Abrother to DaxJames McDonough.

Tiarna LeeBramich,born6 pounds5ounces at 6.05pm on April 10 to proud Sale parents Maxwell Bramichand Ashlee Brown. Asister to Seth and Noah.

Zion Craig Kinzett, born8 pounds 7ounces at 10.52pm on April 5, 2023,toproud Maffra parents Jessica Barbour and CameronKinzett.A brother to Harmoniie,Treyand Eli.

Photos:Zoe Askew

High honour for leader

Local Air Forceofficer awarded theConspicuous Service Cross

FOLLOWING on from earlier advice that Squadron Leader Dave Hughes was amongst the many Australians who were recognised and celebrated in the General Division of Awards for Distinguished and Conspicuous Service, he was presented with his award on Tuesday, April 4, by the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency The Honourable Linda Dessau AC CVO at Government House in Melbourne. Squadron Leader Hughes was also joined by his wife Corrine and son Tom plus friends Roy and Miyuki Vodden, who made this prestigious event even more memorable.

SquadronLeader Hughes said,"Iamextremely humbledand proudtoberecognised on the Australia Day Honours List.I have always considered it to be such aprivilege to work as an Instructor at the School of Air Traffic Control and this honour could not have been achieved without the kindness and support of family, friends and colleagues, to whom Iwill always be grateful."

In the Citation,the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia attributes Squadron Leader Hughes's receipt of the Conspicuous Service Cross to his outstanding professionalism and ensuring aresilient workforce, resulting in an extraordinary contribution to the ADF'sprovision of Air Traffic Control services.

"All Iknow is that Ilove my job and it has been aprivilege to work withoutstanding people in the Air Force. Iammost proud of helping over 300 students deliver operational capability to the Australian Defence Force," Mr Hughes said.

RAAFBase East Sale 80th anniversary and Air Force Week Reception

THE annual AirForce WeekReceptionwas held on March 30, and the opportunity was also achancetorecognise the 80th Anniversary of RAAFBaseEastSale. Although the Base was formally opened on April 22, 1943, with the current rate of effort on base -but also, school holidays, Anzac Dayand Easter all mergingintoone -it was appropriate to recognise this at the same time as hosting abroad range of local community representatives. The early history of RAAF Base East Sale was captured in agreat display by the Gippsland Armed Forces Museum (GAFM). There were display boards with images of aircraft and past Commanders of the Base and models of all the differenttypes of aircraft flown during the last 80 years. TheBasewas alsoprivileged to have on

display the uniforms and information regarding two highlyregarded veterans -Air Commodore William ‘Bull’ Garing, CBE,DFC and Warrant Officer Edward ‘Ted’ Hirst.

In recognition of this support, and the ongoing work of GAFM to preserve Gippsland’s military heritage, Wing Command Matt Plenty presented GAFM representatives, President Mr Mal Cotton, and Mr Lindsay Everard, with agift depicting the Airman’s Code and commemorative coin and emblems. If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit GAFM, the museum has alarge number of exhibits,with dedicated areas to Air Force history at East Sale and Gippsland, as well as dedicated displays on Army and Navy military history.

Tucked awayatWestSaleAirport, GAFMwas akey feature for visitorstothe inaugural West Sale ANZAC Weekend Airshowlastyear. Find the Gippsland Armed Forces Museum on Facebookor visit gippslandarmedforcesmuseum.com

Dutson Rangeactive

DUTSON Training Area will be active during the periodslistedfor Field Training Exercises. Some of these activities may involve demolition practices and, as such, explosions may be heard between the hours of 9am and 4pm each day. Public recreational usage of Lake Wellington will notbeaffected by these exercises.

Apr 27 -May 6:Initial Officer Training includingLiveFire activities

May 10-12:Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training

May 20-22:Military Field Training

May 23: ExplosiveOrdnance Disposal Training

May 28 -Jun 02: Military Field Training

May 30 -Jun 01: Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training

May 30: Survival Pyrotechnic Training

RAAF personnel strive to inform the public of all activities conduced at Dutson Training Area, explosions may be heard outside of the dates listed above if dictated by operational requirements.

Warning to hunters

IN the interestofpublic safety, notification is hereby given that access to Dutson Training Area is prohibited. Dutson Training Area is still an active weapons range, and presents asignificant hazard to all persons within the range boundaries. Thehazardnot only exists during range activation for weaponsexercises,but also during times of inactivity. This is due to the very highlevels of Unexploded Explosive Ordnance on thisrange, some dating back to World War 2, much of which is in an unstable condition. Unmarked silted in bomb craters present anothersignificant hazard. Youare reminded that it is an offence, under Section 89 and 89A of the Commonwealth Crimes Act to trespass on Defence land, and to discharge firearms on or over Commonwealth land. The Dutson Range Boundaries are depicted below.

Aircraft operationsatEast Sale

IF you are interested in learning more about the role of RAAF Base East Sale, flying operations and flying areas, you can visit defence.gov.au/ aircraftnoise/EastSale. This includes alink the RAAF East Sale Noise Management Plan. The Defence approach to noise mitigation and Air Force fly neighbourly policy can also be found through the ‘Understanding Noise’ site.

Squadron Leader Dave Hughes andCorrinne Hughes.

Hundreds showuptoHeyfield

StefanBradley

FANTASTIC numbers -intheir hundreds -turned out for Heyfield’s Anzac Day ceremony, which began and ended with amarch

At 9am on Tuesday, locals gathered at the Heyfield Bowls Club for amarch on George St to the Heyfield Memorial Cenotaph for Anzac Day commemorations.

Heyfield RSL PresidentGregMackenzie, who served approximately 50 years in the Department of Defence, introduced the proceedings, andwas followed by an address by Warrant Officer Class 2Dale Hannaford, aHeyfield local.

“We’rehere not to glorify battle, or war,but remember thosethat have served our country,”

WO2 Hannaford said.

“Anzac Day is not just merely some battle in the distant front, but it’s actually aspiritofacountry. It’s aspirit of all Australians.”

WO2 Hannaford said communities suchas Heyfieldstepped up after “massivelosses” in WW1 and WW2.

“A lot of the jobs were then picked up by the families, the wives, the mothers of those that served. That was no less acommitment than that

of those on the battlefield.”

The community were then invited to lay a wreath. Those who took part in laying awreath at thecenotaph included: Heyfield RSL, Vietnam Veterans, Royal Australian Air Force, National ServiceAssociation,Wellington Shire Council (represented by Councillor Carmel Ripper), Mary Smith (senior citizen), Memorial Hall, Heyfield CFA, Maffra Band (who performed at the service), St Michael’sPrimary School, Heyfield Primary School, Cowwarr Primary School and NambrokDenison Primary School.

The crowd stood for the recitation of the Ode. During the flag raising wasthe playingofthe Last Post,after whichaperiod of silence tookplace. Following this was the playing of The Rouse, and the National Anthem. Theservice concluded after aprayer by Robert Barnes and aclosing address by Mr Mackenzie. All attendees were invited to take part in amarch to HeyfieldRSL forrefreshments.

Mr Mackenzie told the Gippsland Times that his closingaddressaimed to promote peace and educate young people.

“Our Second World War veterans are just about gone. There’s only afew thousand of those,” he said.

“They tell me that by 2025 they’ll be very rare. We’velostall our First World War veterans, so it’s amatter of rekindling(AnzacDay) in remembrance of those people who fought before us.

“And also for the young veterans who have been in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Cr Ripper, who is also an ex-service woman who servedfor 20 years, including 11 years at East Sale, said to the Gippsland Times she was very pleased with the event’s turnout, in particular the youth participation.

“I hope in turn that young people look towards the defence force as acareer,” Cr Ripper said.

“For those who don’t want acareer in the defence force, look at ajob within the community. We’re

badly needing workers in all industries. I’ve spoken to two or three businesses this morning (who) can’t get workers.”

Cr Ripper said she wanted to remember all those who “worked hard for us to be here”, including those left behind at home during the war. One of those individuals was her father.

“He was 12-years-old on afarm when his father died…he was workingfor the effort,but he just wasn’t in uniform. Those people were just as important as those in uniform. We’re all ateam,” she said.

“The ANZACs and everyone else from then and right up to now wentoverseas so we couldhave freedom in our country.

“So we need the young people to work hard for their children’s children. When we’ve got people working their minds are better and they’ve got a reason to get up in the morning.”

Commemorations ended with amarch to Heyfield RSL, wherethe communitycame together for refreshments and food.

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Councillor Carmel Ripper, representing WellingtonShireCouncil,laidawreathatthe Heyfield Memorial Cenotaph.

CowwarrPrimary School students laying a wreath.

Heyfield RSL President Greg Mackenzie opened the AnzacDay commemorations, and gave aclosing address.

Heyfield RSL President Greg Mackenzie opened the AnzacDay commemorations, and gave aclosing address.

Photos: StefanBradley

School children singing theNational Anthem Heyfield CFAduring themarch.

The March began at Heyfield BowlsClub at 9am. Historical vehicles wereprovidedbyLeigh Shields from Maffra.

Wreaths laid at Heyfield Memorial Cenotaph.

The march on George St began at the Heyfield Bowls Club.

WarrantOfficerClass 2DaleHannaford returned to hishome of Heyfieldfor aspeech.

Maffra memorialises sacrifice

TomParry

ONE of the biggest crowds ever turned out for Maffra’s mid-morning Anzac Day service last Tuesday.

The ceremony began in earnest at 11am with a marchsouth along the serviceroadonJohnsonSt from the rotunda to the Maffra Library.

Members of the Maffra Municipal Band -led by drum major Colin McQuillen -headed the procession with their rendition of “It’s aLong Way to Tipperary”.

Theywere closely followed by the 13thLight Horse Regiment Re-enactment Group, making their first-ever appearance in Maffra.

Also participating in the march were members of the No. 32 Squadron RAAF, basedatEast Sale; members of the local CFA brigade; military veterans and their families; and students and staff of St Mary’s Primary and Maffra Primary School, with avintage Willys Jeep bringing up the rear The convoy then gathered around the cenotaph outside the library for aformal observance of Anzac Day, officiated by Maffra RSL Sub-Branch president Kevin Christensen.

Addressing the crowd, Mr Christensen said the commemoration was not justabout “men and women who have servedand continue to serve our country,” but “also about you”.

“We well appreciate the sacrifice made by the 102,866 men and women named on the Roll of Honour,” he told the crowd.

“Whatislessknown arethe injuriesboth physical and psychological, borne by not only thosewho served, but the families and friends of those men and women.”

He also asked those in attendance to “spare a thought and aprayer” for those still experiencing conflict today.

“We bear witness in our lounge rooms every day to lives and livelihoods being destroyed as Europe is once again aflame,” Mr Christensen said. “We are materially involved in that event already, and Ipray that diplomacy wins the day before we are committed further.

“Be thankful that we have people ready and

willing to stand for what is right.”

Other speakers on the day includedFather Edwin Ogbuka, Maffra Sub-Branch vice-president Richard Kors, and RAAF Wing Commander Marcus Watson.

As with all other services, attendees laid wreaths under the cenotaph, observed aminute's silence and heard "The Last Post" -played by trumpeter Gavin Mann.

Speaking to the Gippsland Times after the event, Mr Christensen noted that Maffra's 2023 Anzac Day service had one of the best turnouts ever.

“The dawn service… Ireckon we had about 300 people there,and there wouldhave been more than that at the 11 o’clock service,” he said.

“That’s probably as good acrowd as I’ve seen at our daytime services, so it was just magnificent.”

It was asentiment echoed by Wellington Shire

CouncillorJillWood, one of the many attendees at Maffra’s morning service.

“I went to Stratford (earlier) this morning, and they saidthat wasthe biggest turnout they’ve had for along time too,” Cr Wood said.

“I thinkpeople arerealisingthe sacrifices that people made so we can have abeautiful country like this …that’s why alot have turned out, Ithink.”

Cr Wood -who proudly wore her police service medals on theday -was oneofmanytolay awreath at the base of the cenotaph, doing so on behalf of the Shire.

The 11am startwas laterthan in years past, when Maffra’sdaytimeservices would typically begin at 9am.

AccordingtoMrChristensen,the change in time is due to an agreement with the Heyfield RSL Sub-Branch.

As part of the agreement, the two sub-branches alternatebetweena 9am and 11am starteach year, in exchange forthe servicesofthe Maffra Municipal Band.

Light Horses in theparade Photos: TomParry

Wing Commander Marcus Watson salutes after presenting hiswreathtothe cenotaph.

Guest speaker Father EdwinOgbuka.

Maffra Municipal Band leads the march down Johnson St.

Wellington ShireCouncillor Jill Wood and Maffra RSL Sub-Branch president Kevin Christensen.

This Light Horse tooka keen interest in our photographer.

Maffra Municipal Band, nowseated, performing at the service.

Members of theCFA marching in the Maffra Anzac Dayparade.

Members of the 13th Light Horse Regiment Re-enactmentGroup make their waydownJohnsonSt.

Maffra RSL Sub-Branch president Kevin Christensen speaking at the service.

World War1tradition lives on

StefanBradley

TO see what was up in Briagolong in the afternoon on Anzac Day, you had to be at the town’s RSL Log Cabin, where the traditional Australian gambling game of two-up was in full swing.

At 2pm, it was not just locals who were part of the dozens who flocked to the cabin for drinks, roast lamb rolls and two-up. Briagolong RSL president MarkWagstaff saidthe town’s Anzac Day tradition had become world famous.

“Best two-up in Australia…we get alot of people from out of town come here,” Mr Wagstaff said. Two-upisasimplegame. In the ring, a‘spinner’ places two or three coins in akip (a small flat wooden board),and throws the coins in the air after bets are placed on whether they land on heads or tails. Using three coins guarantees the toss will result in two heads or two tails to determine the winner. Participants can bet against the spinner or bet against each other.

Considered an unregulated form of gambling, two-up in the state of Victoria is illegal,except on Anzac Day.

Mr Wagstaff introduced the game to the attendees, sharing the history of why this pub staple is played on Anzac Day.

“In World War 1, alot of the diggers when they werewaitinginholding areas beforethey went on the front line werelooking for something to do. They used to run two-up betting rings. It was

away to past the time and make abit of money if they were lucky,” he said.

“Playing two-up on Anzac Day is away to maintain aconnection with the earlierANZACs…it’s good to keep that tradition and have abit of fun as well.”

The Gippsland Times of course does not endorse gambling, especially this reporter who lost all the

cashhebrought for two-up,albeit arelatively smallloss of $30. The fictional character John Grant in the 1971 Australian classic horror film Wake in Fright infamously had awinning streak in an illegal game of two-up, but lostall of it in two rounds, leaving him stranded in the town he was passing through.

It’s no surprisethatthe annual two-uphas taken

off in aplace like Briagolong. Mr Wagstaff described the community as special and tight-knit who have a“real connection” to the RSL.

The land and timber for the RSL Log Cabin, built in the 1940s, was made possible because of community donations. That friendliness continues generations later with the lamb for the spit-roast adonation by the community.The Briagolong Pub suppliedthe bacon and eggs for the free breakfast. And of course, the people came together on Anzac Daytoreflect.

Briagolong had aDawn Service at 6am at ANZAC Park, followed by afree gunfire breakfast at the Log Cabin. There was amarch from the cabin to the Main Service at 10.30am at ANZAC Park, returning to the cabinfor morning tea. Roast lamb rolls and two-up at the cabin began at 2pm andwrapped up in the evening, finishing up at theBriagolong Pub for parmas and pizzas.

Rob thespinner (centre) throws thecoinsinaround of two-up. Behind himisScott Mitchell and Darren Toogood.

Briagolong RSL president Mark Wagstaff.

The log cabin servedroast lamb rolls.

Inside the Briagolong LogCabin watching thegame of two-up.

Coins landing in the two-up ring.

Photos: Stefan Bradley

Briagolong RSL LogCabin on AnzacDay

From left: Jodie Burt,RoseJonesand Fiona Jones.

Next generation honour history

Zoe Askew

LOCAL schools,including Gippsland Grammar and Guthridge Primary School, hosted student-led Anzac Day commemorations last week, honouring those who have lost their lives in service of their country.

In front of Guthridge Primary School's Lone Pine Tree, student leaders led awhole school Anzac Day service on Monday, April 24, with students, staff, parents and carers spilling across the sporting oval. Guthridge Primary School student leaders delved intothe historyofAnzacDay and explained the significance of the Lone Pine Tree on the school's grounds.

"At the top of the Turkish trenches at Gallipoli, there was alone pine tree," aGuthridge PS student leader said.

"The Australians and New Zealanders fought long and hard to get to the top of these trenches, and theirbattle became known as the Battle of Lone Pine.

"Many, many soldiers were killed trying to reach the top of these trenches.

"The seeds from the original tree which grew at the top of the Turkish trenches were collected and taken back to Australia to grow," they continued.

"This tree at Guthridge Primary School grew from one of those seeds, and that is why we are having our Anzac ceremony at this place today."

Guthridge PS Australian Defence Force families laid handmade poppy posies at the foot of the Lone Pine Tree,followed by student representatives Emma Munro and Veer Pattni laying afloral wreath.

The local school's choir performedarendition of 'The Spirit of the ANZACs', with the Ode,the Last Post, one minute's silence, the Rouse and the National Anthem concluding the service.

On Anzac Day, Grade 6student Nicholas Weekes received the Sale RSL John PrintzOAM Leadership Award.

The Sale RSL John Printz OAM Leadership Award is open to all young people aged from 10 to 12 involved in aschool, sporting club, youth organisation or other organisation within Sale and surrounding area and is presented to those who demonstrate leadership skills, positivecontributions in ateam environment, values and behave in amannerthat indicates that they respect their organisation and the community, problem-solving skills and apositive contribution in some form of community activity.

Nicholasisa Senior Music Captain at Guthridge PS,akey Guthridge PS Saturday morning netball team member and aSale Scout.

When Guthridge PS principal Emily Streitberg asked Nicholas' teachers, school support staff, peers, and school leaders about the qualities that makethe Grade 6student shine, she said his unwaveringdemonstration of school values and expectations overrides.

"Nicholas willhave agoatanything thatisasked of him in alearning context," Ms Streitberg said.

"He showspersistence, evenwhenthe task is particularly challenging.

"Nicholas can work individually but has many strengthsfor motivatingand guiding when working as ateam.

"However, it is Nicholas' respectful nature that everyone comments on," she said.

"His use of manners is impeccable, and he expects the same of those around him, making him aterrific role model for his grade-level peers and younger students.

Nicholas can always be relied upon when help is needed and does so willingly andhappily."

Ms Streitberg highlighted Nicholas' highly competent problem-solving skills saying the Grade 6studentapproaches glitchesinhis day as calmly as he approaches life.

"Whether it is adisagreement on the soccer field, mistakes in amusical performance from concert band,a difficulty with the sound system during a

school assembly, achallenging mathsproblem in class or asocial niggle between his peers, Nicholas has areassuring, and quietly good-humoured manner which allows his peers(or teachers)tofocus on thesolution to the problem without becoming anxious," Ms Streitberg said.

"Even if he himself does not have the answers to immediatelysolve the problem, his mannerisms createanenvironment in which clear-thinking from all will find asolution.

"This is atremendously important leadership skill to have, and it unites agroup to problem solve together."

Gippsland Grammar senior students from Australian Defence Force families and members of theRoyal Australian Air Force Cadets led the local independent school in an Anzac ceremony around the Garnsey campus' flagpoles on Wednesday, the first day of Term 2.

Gippsland Grammar Year 11 student and Royal Australian Air Force Sergeant Cadet Finn Carpenter was among the students who addressed the congregation of students, teachers and support staff, with Year 12 trumpeter David Ng concluding the commemorative ceremony by performing The Last Post.

Gippsland Veteran's Centre treasurer, secretary andtrainee welfare advocate, and historian for the Sale RSL and Gippsland Veteran's Centre, Ross Jackson, says AnzacDay is an educationaltime for children.

"Anzac Day is an educational time for the children and for the younger people," Mr Jackson said.

"It is an educational time for them to understand what the Cenotaph is all about and the sacrifices of Australian servicemen and women.

"For the families of those named on the Cenotaph, families and friends that are grieving, the Cenotaph is aplace to go to, havequiet time, and think about aloved one.

"Every now and again,you willdrivepastorwalk past and see someone lookingatitand perhaps reflecting on who's on there," Mr Jackson continued.

"It's really aspecial place, and it should be treated with dignity, and it should be treated with respect.

"Anzac Day is acommemoration of Anzac Day, it's also acommemoration of the district's war dead and the national war dead, and for some people, for the people who have lost something or for the people who have gone through something like that, Anzac Day and Remembrance Day is every day, I think people should remember that also."

Guthridge Primary School principal Emily Streitberg with Grade 6student and the Sale RSL John Printz OAM Leadership Awardrecipient NicholasWeekes.

Guthridge Primary School Grade 2student Isabelle Wright

Student leaders Emma Munroand Veer Pattni layawreathatthe base of Guthridge Primary School’s Lone Pine tree.

Guthridge Primary School Foundation student Mackenzie Merry

HayleyMunro, Grade 2, showsher hand-made poppy posy beforeplacing it at the base of Guthridge Primary School’s Lone Pine tree.

Year 12 trumpeterDavid Ng plays The Last Post at the GarnseyCampus Anzacserviceon Wednesdaymorning.

Gippsland Grammar Year 11 student Royal Australian Air ForceCadet Sergeant Finn Carpenter Photos: Contributed

Sale will always remember

AS we stand in the darkness of the morning, we remember them.

As we bow our heads, not aword is spoken. We remember them.

As the trumpet blares TheLastPost,weremember them.

We remember the sons who sat in boats,unknowingly approaching disaster, as salty waves thrust them closer to the shores of Gallipoli.

We remember the brothers whose blood stained the white-sanded shores of ANZAC Cove.

We remember the fathers who lay fighting until their last breath.

We remember the husbands who neverreturned home.

On April 25, we remember them.

PrivateClaudeTerrell CrowlofStratford, 22, was among the 2000 Australian and New Zealand soldiers killed in action at ANZAC Cove on April 25, 1915.

Devastation engulfed the coast of Gallipoli for eightlong months, far fromthe campaign's intended objective to capture the Gallipoli peninsula, then Constantinople, quickly knocking Turkey out of the war.

As the ANZAC troops reached the shore, in what is now known as ANZAC Cove, they were about amilenorth of the loosely planned landing site in steep, rugged terrain, meeting fierce resistance from the Ottoman forces.

Thousands of Australian and New Zealand fathers, brothers,husbands, and sons became separated from their units as they began moving up the tangle of complex spurs and ravines in the darkness,burning hot metal bullets cracking in the still dawn air.

Devastating artillery bombardments from the Ottoman forces proved too strong,and the ANZAC position becameprogressively more precarious after failing to securetheir high-ground objectives

Despite the slaughter transpiring on theGallipoli beachfront, General SirIan Hamilton, Commanderin-Chief of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force, denied the withdrawal of the ANZACs and ordered the troops to dig in.

The ANZACsremained in the same positionthey hadtaken on April 25, 1915, until their evacuation in late December 1915.

British forces completed the evacuation of Cape HellesonJanuary 9, 1916, ending the Gallipoli campaign.

An estimated 8141 Australian soldiers were killed in action during the eight-month-long stalemate, with the Gallipolicampaign deemed amilitary failure.

For the vast majority of the 16,000 Australians and New Zealanders who landedatGallipolion April 25, it was their first experience of combat.

Of the more than 50,000 Australians who served

at Gallipoli, some 18,000 were wounded, bringing home battle scars both internally and externally.

By the end of World War I, November 11, 1918, about 62,000 Australians were killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner.

Each year on April 25, AnzacDay, we commemorate, we remember, the 8141 Australian soldiers killed in action at Gallipoli,Australia's first major action in World War I.

Since April 25, 1916, whenmore than 2,000 Australian and New Zealand troops marched through the streets of London, marking one year since the ANZAC's landing at Gallipoli, we have remembered them.

Anzac Day became anational commemoration for the more than 60,000 Australians who died during World War I.

By April25, 1927, every stateobserved some form of public holiday for the first time.

One hundred and eight years later, on April 25, 2023, we continue to remember them.

We remember Private Arthur Abernethy, from Maffra, who was killed in action at Gallipoli, Turkey, on May 2, 1915, aged 22.

We remember Private GeorgeBarnett Lewis, from Sale, who was killed in actionatGallipoli, Turkey, on May 29, 1915, aged 37.

We rememberPrivate ArthurJohnAdams,from Sale, who was killed in action at Ypres, Belgium, on September 20, 1917, aged 26.

We remember Private Albert Atiken, from Sale, who was killed in action at Amiens, France, on August 8, 1918, aged 23.

We remember Private Edward James Bird, from Sale, who waskilled in action at Gueudecourt Picardie, France, on November 6, 1916, aged 23.

We rememberPrivate Colin William Bolitho, from Sale,who was killed in action at Pozières, northern France, on July 28, 1916, aged 19.

We remember Lieutenant KeithAllen Borthwick, from Fulham, who was killed in action at Gallipoli, Turkey, on August 7, 1915, aged 29.

We remember Private Archibald James Bower, from Sale, whowas killedinactionatPozières, northern France, on November 5, 1915, aged 21.

We remember Private Donald William Calder, from Sale,who was killed in action at Bullecourt, northern France, on February 24, 1916, aged 25.

We remember Corporal George Ray Clapham, fromSale, who waskilled in actionatGallipoli, Turkey, on September 13, 1915, aged 23.

We remember Trooper Edward Randolph Cleaver, from Sale, who died of wounds in Palestineon October 31, 1917, aged 31.

We rememberPrivate Herbert Clement Clues, from Sale, who was killed in action at Quéant, France, on April 11, 1917, aged 24.

We remember Private WalterCharles Ebden, fromSale,who died of wounds received in the Somme Battle,Somme, France,onAugust7, 1916, aged 32.

We remember Private John Leonard Raymond Costello, fromSale, who was killed in action on January 7, 1917, aged 22.

We remember Trooper HaroldNesbitt Cummin, from Sale, who died of wounds on December 1, 1917, aged 22.

We remember Private John Thomas Crick, from Kilmany, who was killed in action at Ypres, Belgium, on August 16, 1916, aged 23.

We remember CorporalMaxwellJames Davidson, from Sale,who diedofwounds receivedatGallipoli,

Turkey, on May 6, 1915, aged 20.

We remember Lance Corporal John Murray Davis,fromSale, who was killed in action at Pozieres, France, on July 24, 1916, aged 24.

We remember Private Leonard Neil Davis,from Seacombe,who died of wounds receivedinthe Battle of Ypres, Belgium, on September 24, 1917, aged 22.

We remember Private Percy Davis, from Koo Wee Rup, who was killed in action on August 31, 1918, aged 24.

We rememberPrivate John Albert Dix, from Longford, who was killed in action on August 8, 1918, aged 33.

We remember Private Joseph CavanDuffy, from Sale, who was killed in action at Fromelles, France, on July 19, 1916, aged 30.

We remember Private Harry Foster from Merrimans Creek, who was killed in action at Fromelles, France, on July 19, 1916, aged 33.

We rememberall thenames marked on the Sale Cenotaph, all the men and women who paid the ultimate price fighting for our country.

On April 25, we will remember them.

Thedawn service at the Sale Cenotaph led by thepresident of the Sale RSL, Royal Australian Air Force Warrant Officer CSC Brian Holcoft, attracted close to 1000 guests on Tuesday, as current and former serving Australian Defence Forcememberscame togetherwithciviliansto pay their respects and remember those who gave their life for their country.

Zoe Askew

President of the SaleRSL, Royal Australian Air ForceWarrantOfficer CSCBrian Holcoft, welcomes gueststothe 2023 AnzacDay Dawn Service at the Sale Memorial Hall

Royal Australian AirForce memberCraig Collins stands at ease during the 2023 Anzac DayDawnSerice.

2023 Anzac DayDawnService catafalque party personnel, Royal Australian Air Force member Craig Collins.

City Band memberGlen Morriss performs

Streetlights highlight the significant crowdofpeople who attended the 2023 Anzac DayDawn Service on Tuesday. Awreathlaidbeforethe Cenotaph at the Sale Dawn Service on Tuesday.

Thesun began to rise as the 2023Anzac DayDawnService neared its end.

About 1000 Dawn Service attendees stood beforethe Cenotaph last Tuesday morning, paying theirrespects and remembering those who lost their lives serving their country Photos:Zoe Askew

Wind farm: “Another step closer”

Historic Dargo Hotel up for sale

FOR the first time in 125 years, the historic Dargo Hotel is for sale -and ownership of a hotel is being offered to thousands of locals through crowd-sourced funding.

“When the hotel was listed for sale late last year, it was obvious that there was an opportunity to takethe ownership to the community. We knew that under the stewardship of localswecould takethe historic Dargo Hotel into the future whilst preserving the essence of the place,” the head of The Dargo Hotel Owners Group, Trent Hadfield, said.

Due to astrongand loyal following of about 30,000people acrosstheir social channels, ownership of the Dargo Hotel bonds locals in an unprecedented manner.

Withthe support of locals,The Owners Group intends to maintainthe history of the Dargo, whilst modernisingoperations and increasing the frequency of events and continuing to supportlocal community organisations through donations,collaborations and fundraisers.

The purchase is for the business and property, including the Dargo Motor Inn.

The investmentwill be via acrowd-sourced funding campaign (equity crowdfunding).

Investors will own shares in the company as well as receive ownership benefits, such as an invitation to the Owners Weekend, freefood for adecade and lifetime discounts.

From page 1

AS Mr Shajahanexplained, the Fugro vessel’s capabilities were extensive.

“We have acombination of CBT (computer based testing) equipment as well as drillingequipment,” he said.

“Aswegoout we collect actual quantitativedata in terms of CBT’s and samples,which we bring back and do the analysis, becauseweneed to characterise the kind of geology.”

The vessel can caterfor up to 500 metres of drilling simultaneously.

Seabed studies follow four years of engineering and environmental investigations on the project.

Addressing media assembled at the QUBE dock in front of the Fugro vessel, Mr Rattray described it as a“momentous day for Victoria, Gippsland and Star of the South”.

“These investigations will collect critical data to drive progress on the project, and bring us another step closer to bringing offshore wind energy into the grid this decade,” he said.

“Knowing what’s under the seabedinthis specific location helps ensure everything we do

-from turbine designand placementthroughto construction methods -istailored especially for this spot in Bass Strait”, While not discounting the value of renewables, Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath, said longevityand prosperity of the Gippsland region also needed to be carefully considered.

“Investment in new energy jobs presents an opportunity for Gippsland, however we mustbe active participants in such projects,” she said.

“The Nationals will continue to advocate for sustainable long term careersfor locals, including the use of localexpertise in manufacturing, engineering, construction and maintenance.

“It’s fair to say our community expects more than short term, localised benefits -given the scope of the project, establishing stakeholderrelationships that benefit locals in the long term will be central to its acceptance.”

Star of theSouth is Australia’s most advanced offshore wind project, proposedtobelocated off the Wellington coast.

It is estimated Star of the South will power up to 1.2 million homes.

The Owners Group is inviting everyone to get involved for as little as $400.

“We invite you to join us in investing not just in apiece of history but owning apiece of the future,” Mr Hadfield said.

For event details and to register your interest in owning apiece of the local pub, head to onmarket.com.au/offers/dargo-hotel-eoi/

In-person information sessions are being held at Saleatthe Greyhound Clubtoday (May 2) and at the Bairnsdale RSL tomorrow (May 3), from 5.30pm.

An online event will be held tomorrow (May 3), scheduled so potential owners can meet one another.

The DargoHotel Group has partnered with OnMarket to facilitate Equity Crowdfunding and believes this rare offer may quickly become oversubscribed, therefore stressing the local community registers their interest to receive an exclusive, VIP investment invitation.

TheDargoHotelOwners Group is headed by business advisory Mr Hadfieldand Aaron Patten, who has abackground in hospitality, both with strong ties to East Gippsland.

MayTours at 9.00am and 9.30am.

May

Please contact the Office on 03 5145 6554 to express your interest in attending atour or the information session.

We look forward to welcoming youand your child to our beautiful school—a small school with many opportunities!

Minister forEnergyand Resources Lily D’Ambrosio addresses the media in Agnes (near Welshpool) on Friday.

Photo: Contributed

AnzacDay in Meerlieu

THIS year'sMeerlieu Anzac DayDawn Service was well-attended, with over 140 people waking up early to pay their respects to the soldiers who never came home.

The service started withthe sounds of bagpipes, played by Peter Caithness.

Coming out of the fog, Mr Caithness made his way to the front of the crowd and stopped at the flagpole, where Ellie and Isobel Caldwelllowered the flag to half mast.

MeerlieuPublic Hall president James Blandford officiated the service, and opened with ahistory on how Anzac Day came about.

He spoke aboutthe local honour boards,and how those in Meerlieu and Bengworden are unique -not only do they have the names, but they also have

the facesofthe men who went to war from the local areas.

After, Katie Hunterrecited the poem “NotA Hero”, then Marty Blennerhassett presented the commemorative address, speaking about two local men -William Joseph Yates and Charles Patrick Deery -who fought in WW1and didn’t comehome. He finished with the Ode and David Ng played the Last Post; aminute's silence was observed while 20 faces of the local menwho nevercame home streamed on the the wall of the pavilion. The service then movedfrom the Pavilion to thememorial,where Judith Robbins read the names out of the 20 men who died in action then wreaths were laid. The community wreath was laid by long-time residents Robyn and Mick Holland,

who were followed by Wellington Shire Councillor ScottRosetti.

At the conclusion of the service, attendees went down to the hall for agunfire breakfast, provided by the Meerlieu Anzac committee and funded by the Meerlieu and District Community Group. Following breakfast, the annual Anzac bake off was judged. This year's food was Jelly Slice, with firstprize won by Claudia Blandford,second by Mel Frew and third by Zoe Blandford. Mr Blandford reflected positively on the day.

"Every year, the numbers grow for the Meerlieu Dawn Service," Mr Blandford said.

"We thank everyone who attends and we hope everyone takes something out of it."

Birdofthe Month: Australasian Swamphen

HAVE you ever seen this bird crossing the road in front of you?

They can look like apurple chicken, but they’re actually an AustralasianSwamphen. They are regularlyseen on the roadside as they like to be near water and are attracted by the water in roadside ditches.

Australasian Swamp hens are alarge waterbird with adistinctive thick red bill and forehead shield. They have redeyes, deepbluehead and breast with black upper parts and wings.

In bright sunlight, the plumage shines with an intense blue sheen. Long, reddish legs with long, slender unwebbed toes help them to walk and feed in shallow water. They have awhite under-tail that is exposed when they flick their tail up and down while feeding.

AustralasianSwamp hens are common throughout many areas of eastern and northern Australia, as well as Tasmania. They’re generally found grazing around the edges of freshwater swamps, lakes and creeks surrounded by dense reeds and rushes. It is in this environment that they can find food, build nests and find protection from danger.

For such abulky bird, the Swamp hen is an accomplished flier and will readily taketothe air to escape danger. In flight, the long legs and

elongated toes trail behind or hand underneath the body. Althoughthey are proficient swimmers, they prefer to wander on the edges of the water, among reeds and on floating vegetation.

The dietofthe Swamp hen includes the soft shootsofreedsand rushes, seeds, insects and small animals like frogs and snails. They’re also known to steal eggs, and will eat ducklings if they can catch them! They have the strength to pull up reeds and use their long toes to grasp food while eating.

While most birds live in pairs with only the current season’s chicks, Australasian Swamp hens live in large extended family groups that usually consist of more males thanfemales. Their nest is a platform of trampledreeds,with the surrounding vegetationsometimes beingused to form shelter.

Allfamily members, and occasionally the young from the previous brood share in incubation, feeding,care of the young and chasing away predators.

BirdLife East Gippsland meet weekly for Monday morning outings. New members are always welcome.

Check out the official Facebook group and BirdLife Australiaevents page for more information.

ELDERS MAFFRA ANNUAL ANIMAL HEALTH PERFORMANCE EVENT

JOIN US FORANINFORMATIVE EVENINGFOCUSING ON IMPROVED PRODUCTIVITY &PROFITABILITY

TOPICS INCLUDE:

Samantha Parish: Understanding +combating anthelmintic resistance viastrategic drench programs

JimReeves: Return on investment when implementing efficacious treatmentsat dryoff

SarahRamage: Trisolfen. Thebenefitsofofferinggold standard painrelief in beef and sheep

When: WednesdayMay3rd

Time: 6.30pm -9.00pm

Where: Maffco Brewery and Taphouse 13-17RailwayPlace

Nibbles andrefreshments provided

RSVP: Jim0437469 186

Hamish 0439 007917

Pat 0400 790035

Store 5139 2100

 Maffra Indoor Bowls begins the 2023 season tomorrow, Wednesday May 3, at 1pm. Have your names in before 12.30pm, on the list in the clubhouse or phone 5147 1974 or Joy 0438 456 875.

 The Maffra Garden Club’s next meeting is at 12pm on Monday May 8, at three members gardens at Calvert Court, Maffra beginning at number eight. Please bring your own chair, lunch and mug. The competition isthe best azalea. New members welcome. Contact Jeanette on 0438 456 491 for more information.

 The Maffra Neighbourhood House is now open for Term Two and the Term Two flyer has been delivered to letterboxes in Maffra. Bookings are now being taken for activities listed in the flyer, please contact 0422 335 155 to book any of the courses advertised. Bookings are now being taken for the next portrait class to be held on Monday May 8. The next First Aid/CPR class run by Kemp Aquatics at Maffra Neighbourhood House will be held on Tuesday May 9, from 6pm. Bookings are essential for this class.

 Rotary Club of Maffra is hosting agamesnight at Duart Homestead, BoisdaleStreet, Maffra, on Thursday May 4, beginning at 6.30pm. Please book your place on 51471985. There will be finger food available at acost of $25 with drinks at bar prices.

Bring your cards and games alongwith team mates as required for afun time.

 The Rotary Club of Maffra will be held on Sunday May 7, at the Island Reserve, McMahon Drive, Maffra (at the back of Woolworths car park), from 9am until 12.30pm.

 St Vincent de Paul monthly garage sale will be held on Saturday May 6, at the Jack Kelly store, 28 Laura Street, Maffra, from 9am until 10.30am.

Australasian Swamp hen

Photo:JackWinterbottom

Ellie and Isobel Caldwell, Katie Hunter,James Blandford, Robyn and MickHolland, Judith Robbins andMarty Blennerhassettatthe Meerlieu Dawn Service. Photos:Contributed Bagpiper Peter Caithness and trumpeter David Ng,who played ‘TheLastPost’. Peter Caithnessonthe bagpipesinMeerlieu.

PROUDLYBROUGHT TO YOUBYTHESE PARTICIPATINGLOCAL BUSINESSES

Crossword Puzzle No.8532

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. What band released the song ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’?

2. What is sushi traditionally wrapped in?

3. Who played the part of ‘The Black Adder’ from the TV series of the same name?

4. Jazz and Civic aremodelsofwhich car company ?

TWO POINTERS

5. What month has 28 days?

6. Atote is what kind of accessory?

7. What Sesame Street character was the must-have Christmas toy of 1996?

8. Eve was tempted in the Garden of Eden by which animal?

THREE POINTERS

9. In what ocean would you find the Mariana Trench?

10. If Iwas in the town of Burnie, what Australian state would I be in?

11. What is the name of the musical currently playing in Melbourne that sees William Shakespeareand his wife rewrite one of his most famous plays?

12. Who won the 2022 Brownlow Medal?

FOUR POINTERS

13. Thereare three James Bond movies that start with the letter ‘D’. Dr No, Die Another Day and ...?

14. Near which sea is the capital city of Darwin located?

FIVE POINTER

15. Name the Australian landmarks. One point for each. HOW

Target Time No.0156

Howtoplay.

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or morecan you list? The centrelettermustbe included and each letter may be used only once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural

Sudoku No.0156

Howtoplay...

Fill the grid so thateveryrow and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1to9 Solution page 37

Sale’s 2023 AnzacDay parade

ZoeAskew

SALE'S city centre was shut down for Anzac Day commemorations on Tuesday, marking 108 years since Australian and New Zealand soldiers landed on the shores of Gallipoli on April 25, 1915.

Some woke before the sun to rememberthose who losttheir lives serving theircountry, the Sale dawn service, ledbythe presidentofthe Sale RSL, Royal Australian Air Force Warrant Officer CSC Brian Holcoft, attracted close to 1000 attendees.

Bodies spilledonto MacArthur Streetascivilians, former and current serving AustralianDefence Force members, came together at the Cenotaph, in front of Sale Memorial Hall, under cover of darkness, to remember them.

To remember the more than 8,000 Australian soldiers who died at Gallipoli.

To remember the more than 60,000 Australians who died in World War 1.

To remember the more than 30,000 Australians who died in World War 2.

To remember the 103,021 Australian men and women who died serving their country.

As the sun rose, lighting aonce-dark MacAllister Street, flower wreaths laid before the Cenotaph, empty plastic chairs, aportable screen and a microphone held securely in its black metal stand were the only reminiscences of the early morning event, with attendees dispersing from the Dawn Service to their following respective plans. Backtobed for some, home forbreakfast for others.

For many, their return home was merely temporary as they headed to the Sale Cemetery for the War Graves Service at 9am.

By 10am Raymond Street and MacAllister Street in Sale were bustling with life as hundreds descended upon the town's centre to witness the

2023 AnzacDay parade before attending the commemorative service and wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph.

People of all ages, young and old, lined the two Sale streets, children eagerly anticipating the parade's beginning as views of marchestaking their positions teased inquisitive minds.

As the Sale clocktower read 10.30am, apolice escort led the Anzac Day parade down the main street of Sale, two Willys MB jeeps the first in line, followed by the Sale City Banddonning their distinguishable vibrant red blazers, Australian Defence Force personnel from the RAAF BaseEast Sale, local veterans and veteran representatives, the Salvation Army, Scouts and school groups.

Ross Jackson, treasurer secretary of the GippslandVeteran's Centre, trainee welfare advocate and historian for the Sale RSL and the Gippsland Veteran'sCentre, was amazed at the considerablenumberofservingAustralian Defence Force membersfrom theRAAFBaseEast Sale who marched in this year's Anzac Day Parade.

"The RAAF this year, Ihave not seenthat amount of RAAF personnel [participating in the parade and morning service]," Mr Jackson said.

"I was wondering to myself if therewas even anybody left out at the RAAF Base with the size of that RAAF contingent that came through.

"The crowds [at the Dawn Service, AnzacDay parade and morning service] were much bigger than what we have had for probablyfive or six years.

"So they were things thatstruckmeasbeing really good to see for the day."

The Anzac Day parade, commencing at the Sale Clocktower, concluded at the Sale Memorial Hall; serving Australian Defence Force personnel lined the left side of the Cenotaph with attendees, including veterans, civilians, emergency services representatives, school students and politicians

funnellinginto the SaleMemorialHall courtyard, spilling onto MacAllister Street, spanning as far back as Sale College.

Former RAAF service woman and current vice president of the Sale RSL Kylie Willmont led the morning service with honourable guests in attendance, including The Nationals Member for Gippsland South and Shadow Minister for Roads and RoadSafety, DannyO'Brien, Wellington Shire CouncilMayor Ian Bye, Group Captain Brett Williams,Senior ADF Officer, RAAF Base East Sale andchairmanofthe Gippsland Veteran's Centre Michael Page.

Local schools werewell represented, withstudents from Gippsland Grammar, Sale College, Guthridge Primary School and Catholic College Sale placing wreaths before the Cenotaph, honouring and remembering those who gave their lives for their country.

Sale Police, SES, Air Force and Army cadets, Scouts, Girl Guides and local veterans were among the many who placed wreaths at the base of the Cenotaph on Tuesday, vibrant flowers now lining the empty stone tomb.

Despite the fallings of afew cadets on parade, acommon consequence for any individual, cadet, officer or non-commissioned officer,SaleAnzac Day commemorations, organised by anew board in 2023, were successful in achieving their purpose.

"The purpose is that it's acommemoration of Anzac Day, and it's also acommemoration of the district's wardeadand the nationalwar dead," Mr Jackson said.

"That is the focus, and the focus need notbe taken away from that essentialcore reason why we are all there.

"We made acommitment to those people on the Cenotaph that we would remember them, and we have done that, and we will continue to do that."

Royal Australian Air Forcemember Henriette Anton. Photos: Zoe Askew

TheSalvation Army member John Bennselly.

Royal Australian AirForce Flying Officer Michael Tremain, followed by Royal Australian Air ForceFlight Lieutenant BrettSinclair

Local Air Forcecadets marching to position at the Sale AnzacDay 10am service.

Australian Army Aviation Corps Captain follows Australian Army Aviation Corps Lieutenant

Royal Australian AirForce Pilot Officer Daniel Berndt presents arms.

Former Royal AustralianAir Force servicewoman andcurrent vice president of the Sale RSL KylieWillmont.

Gippsland Veteran’s Centrechairman Michael Page OAMinone of the two Willys jeeps at the 2023 AnzacDay Parade in Sale.

Morethan 1000 people funnelled into the Sale Memorial Hall courtyardand down MacAllister Street on Tuesdayfor the 10am 2023 Anzac Dayservice.

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South and ShadowMinister for Road Safety Danny O’Brien satfront and centreatthe 10am AnzacDay service in Sale

Local Royal Australian Air Forcecadet corporal.

Wellington ShireCouncil Mayor Ian Byesits next to Gippsland Veteran’s Centresecretarytreasurer RossJackson, who sits next to Gippsland Veteran’sCentrechairmanMichael Page.

Royal Australian AirForce Pilot Officer Daniel Berndt stands at ease.

Sale Scouts representatives placed aflower wreath beforethe Cenotaph on Tuesday.

Willys Jeeps led the 2023 AnzacDay Parade on Tuesday.

Royal Australian Lance Corporal Chase Campbell,Australian Army Aviation Corps Lieutenant,Royal Australian Airforce Flight Sergeant Matt Hall and Royal Australian Air ForceSergeant NicholasMining.

Sale City band in the2023 AnzacDay Parade.

ShakespeareFestival in full swing

WITHthe officialopeninglastFriday, the Stratford Shakespeare Festival is now well and truly into full swing.

Fancya fun-filled family day out? Thencome downtoStratford's VillageGreen(opposite the train station) for the annual Faire Day extravaganza this Sunday, May 7.

This year seesawonderful gathering of all manner of food, arts, crafts, and clothing stalls to fill the stomach and delight the senses.

Bring the children as they enjoy the fun of the faire witharts and crafts, jumping castles, games, and Medieval re-enactments.

Marvel at the traditionaltrades which are being kept alive by seasoned and talented craftsman and local artists.

Be entertained by acommunity of singers and songwriters as you take amoment to enjoy alocally brewed beer or sample the fine wares from alocal

WE ARE BACK

gin maker.

With over 60 stalls, this will be the Stratford Shakespeare Festival'sbiggestFaire Day yet, and afantastic day out for all the family.

But there's more! Come see performances of someofShakespeare’s mostbeloved plays, as well as wonderful adaptations and variations on the ShakesPAIR theme bought to life by the Combined Primary Schools, the East Gippsland GeezerS and the Community Players.

Join the festivalfor anightoffood, fun and merrimentatthe Bard’s Banquet on Saturday May 13, as they are joined by the Australian Shakespeare Company’s Graduate Players who will tell the tale of Love’s Labour’s Lost Information on all festival events can be found via the website at stratfordshakespeare.com.au

Romeo and Juliet at Stratford

TWO primary schools of Stratford, both alike in dignity and the pride they take in their students, come together to present ataleofforbidden love between the son and daughter of two powerful, warring families.

In one of Shakespeare’s most famous pairings, Romeoand Juliet are two star-crossed lovers who risktheir lives to be together. How will it end? Join the talented combined Stratford Primary

School’s cast for this wonderful, heart-warming performance, directed by Meg Weatherley.

Thereare performances throughout the week, beginning on Tuesday,May 9from1.30pm, followed by Wednesday, May 10 from 1.30pm and Friday, May 12 from 6pm. All showsare performed at TheMechanics Hall, 17 Hobson St, Stratford. Tickets are $5.

Plentyoffamily activities on FaireDay this Sunday.

Photo: Lisa Hayman Photography

KylieBeechey(Juliet) and Myles Witt (Romeo).

Photo: Contributed

FunatEastGippsland Field Day

Zoe Askew

THOUSANDS of peoplefrom across the state descended on the Bairnsdale Aerodromelastmonth for the annual agricultural event East Gippsland Field Days.

Established in 1986, the first East Gippsland Field Days were hosted on Trevor and Judy Richardson’s property 2km west of Lindenow before an increase in exhibitors warranted the agricultural event’s relocation to the propertyofJim and David Johnston at Walpa in 1989.

By 1992 the event attracted 130 exhibitors calling for amore permanent site, with Lindenow Lions Clubworking withthe East Gippsland Shireto

secureapermanentresidency at the Bairnsdale Aerodrome.

East Gippsland Field Days havebecome one of the most iconic eventswithin the East Gippsland Shire, hosting morethan 300 exhibitor sites and attracting crowds of up to 10,000 from across Gippsland, Victoria and interstate.

The 2023 East Gippsland FieldDays,Friday, April 21 and Saturday, April 22, did not disappoint; quite the contrary, the cosmic agricultural event featured an extensive list of exhibitors, from food vans and drink stands to farming machinery and animal products to home wears and clothing.

With rows of colossal-sized farming machinery, numerous livestock care exhibitors and anything else one may need on afarm, from irrigation systemstosolar poweroptions, the 2023East Gippsland Field Days were enough to make even the grumpiest of farmers crack asmile.

Among the many livestock stalls at this year’s event was Leebrooke Livestock.

Jessica and Matthew Lee took on the East Gippsland cattle property, which had been in his familyfor six generations,five years ago with a vision to build aflock of exceptional quality sheep to run alongside their Angus cattle.

Having beenborn and raised on Hillcreston Superfine Merino Stud near Bigga on the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales, Jesshad the sheep experience to do it.

Though, the couple quickly realised Merinos were not suited to their land, deciding to go with Australian Whites. Jess and Matthew Lee establishedLeebrooke Australian Whites,today runningbothastudand commercial operation,carrying primary Tattykeel

and Gamadalegenetics and grazing 150Angus breeders.

The Australian White,alsoknownasthe “Aussie White”, is arelatively new breed developed by three leading Australian sheep stud operations to suit Australian conditions and market demands.

The Australian White is amoderately large, upstanding meat sheep breed that stands over a lot of ground, is white in colourand is aheavybreed without sacrifice to good mobility, with essential traits including good walkability, strong mothering instinct and ahigh degree of vigour in lambs.

Ahair breed with good shedding ability, eliminatingthe need for shearing, makes Australian Whites agreat easy-care option.

While Jess no longer has Merino sheep, there was no shortage of the fine soft wooled breed at the 2023 East Gippsland Field Days.

Macehill Merino, afamily-run stud based in Stockdale, Victoria, with four generations of wool growing history, had aselection of young sale rams on display across the weekend.

Neighbours to the Bairnsdale Aerodrome, Gippsland AgriculturalGroup,wereinattendance at the 2023 East Gippsland Field Days, with representatives from the not-for-profit group led by farmers for farmersshowcasingthe group’s recent projects. One such project was the growth of a10-tonne wheat crop in 2022.

Gippsland Agricultural Group sews arange of wheat and barley varieties each year at the Gippsland Research Farm to determine which performs best in Gippsland’s growing conditions.

2022 proved to be an exceptional year for some varieties, with East Gippsland producing a10-tonne per hectare wheat crop managed by agronomist Casey Willis with assistance from Noah Dunn.

Between Working Dog Trials, aTherapy Dogs vs Assistance Dogs presentation, Playful Paws’ dog presentations, Black Snake Productions Wildlife Showand apetting zoo, East GippslandFieldDays certainly catered to attending animal lovers.

East Gippsland whip-cracking sensation Emiliqua East was apopularevent,with the Bairnsdale local’s whip-cracking demonstrations drawing in large crowds on both days.

Emi also provided free kids whip-cracking workshopsthis year, which she described as the best partofthe 2023 East Gippsland Field Days in asocial mediapost

“Record gate numbers and perfect weather set thescene for the best fun weekend,” Emi said.

“A fantastic, enthusiastic crowd, and it was wonderful to see so many children with parents and grandparents stop to enjoy my shows on Friday and Saturday.

“But thebestpartswerethe freeinstructional sessions,” shesaid.

“Whata huge hit it was with the kids!Many had neverheld awhipand were towardsthe end of their

first lesson cracking confidently; even blisters did not deter their enthusiasm!

“At least 50 children ranging from four years of age and upwards were keen to have atry and to learn the basicsofcrackingand handling a stockwhiporimproveontheir existing techniques. What fantastic numbers.

“You guys who attended made it truly very special for me, and lenjoyed every minute. Thanks so much to the event organiser and all the committee of the Lindenow Lions Club; it truly felt like lwas part of thefamily and so thrilled to be back once more.” East Gippsland FieldDays was not just ahaven for farmers, with an abundance of non-farm related stalls, activities and events hosted across the two days.

With performances from formerXFactor star Andrew Wishard, Misty Henderson and Band, the Evans Petroleum Kids Zone and The Great Dino (a race around the Dino Dash Arena in an inflatable dinosaur suit), 2023 East Gippsland Field Days attendees were spoilt for entertainment choice. Hundredsofvendorsfromacross thestate showcased productsfromjamsand sweet treats to jerky and chutney to candles and clothing; the stunning display of items on offer was arguably a bank account’s worst nightmare.

With arecord number of exhibitors and guests, there is no denying the 2023 East Gippsland Field Dayswere asuccess; the Lindenow Lionsand Lionesses have once again outdone themselves. As Gippsland East Nationals MP Tim Bull said, the growth and success of the East Gippsland Field Days is atestament to the hard work of the Lindenow Lions and Lionesses.

“Since theybegan waybackin1986, the East Gippsland Field Days have developed into one of the biggest events in the region,” Mr Bull said.

“The funds raised go back into the local community and over the years have produced ahuge array of beneficial outcomes.”

East Gippsland Shire Mayor Councillor Mark Reeves agrees with Mr Bull that East Gippsland Field Days is atestament to the hard work of the volunteer organising committee, saying the event is ahighlight on the region’s events calendar.

“The field days were agreat success overall, with excellentstallholder and visitor numbers across both daysatthe Bairnsdale Aerodrome,” Cr Reeves said.

“Many patrons took the opportunity to visit East Gippsland Shire Council’s site to engage with us, ask questions or collect information.Great weather added to the positive atmosphere.

“A real highlightthis year was our Grown Caught Madetreasure hunt trail, where children and their parentsand grandparents visited about 12 producers or agribusiness-related stalls. It was great to see so many people participate in what was avery engaging initiative.

“Overall,the field days are acredittothe volunteer organising committee to see this event so well supportedbyexhibitorsand the publicalike.”

Traralgon’s Timothy Bye, founder of The Gay Farmer Candles Photos:Zoe Askew

Tractorswereacrowd favourite on Friday morning.

Leebrooke Livestock showed offtheir Australian Whites at the East Gippsland Field

Trybrass for your brain

SALE City Band BrassAcademy are holding a ‘Come and Try’ session on Tuesday, May 2at

5.30pm at the band hall, in Foster St next to the Museum, for anyone of any age interested in playing abrass instrument.

Playing and learning amusical instrument is an amazing thing to do at any age. Studies have shown that music not only benefits young children, but can help to stave off cognitive decay in older people.

Playing an instrumentinvolves doing many thingsatonce involving bothbody andbrainposture, how to hold the instrument, where to put the fingers for each note. It involves instant recognition of notes on the stave, hand-eye coordination, eye movements up and down, backwards and forwards, that link bothsides of the brain and actually increase the size of the brain over time. This is true -studieshave shown that learning an instrument actually increases brain tissue size!

Playingmusic also,ofcourse,enables the performer (and the listener) to express their emotions, to step away from the problems of every day life and immerse themselves in the joy of making music. Playing with other people in aband, orchestra, ukulele group, etc also provides asocial outlet,an opportunity for peopletoincrease their social skills, their empathywith others and their leadership

skills. It can also give meaning to life.

Learning an instrument teaches people of all ages concentration, self-discipline and above all things needed in this world, resilience. Some call it ‘grit’. In other words, as many studies have shown,learning an instrument increases children’s academic ability, their Intelligence Quotient(IQ).

It also contributes to enhancing the Emotional, Social andAdversity Quotient of anyone at any age. Above all, it can be alot of fun!

So where can you learnmusic in Wellington Shire? The MaffraMunicipal Bandhas expanded to include aStage Band, Training Band, String Ensemble and Ukulele Group as well as their Concert Band in theirstriking yellowjackets. The Sale City Band with their well-known red jackets has vacancies for experienced players of brass and percussionand offers tuition to beginners through its Brass Academy.

The Julie Ward School of Music in Sale offers tuition in piano, singing, violin, guitar, drums and woodwind instruments.Piano with Karen Phelps is also in Sale, 0429 953 537. Julie Bradley runs the Briagolong Ukulele Strum Sessions, 0456 455 595, everyone welcome! For more details about The Julie Ward School of Music and the two bands, please see the classified ads.

CDP Theatreproductionsoon showing

ASTAGE adaptation of Gippsland author Alison Lester’s work is makingits waytoThe Wedge, from the team behind The Gruffalo and the Treehouse series of stage-shows.

Following theirsuccessfulnational tour of Magic Beach,CDP Theatre Producers are bringing the classic children’sbook AreWeThere Yet? to life, which sees eight-year-old Grace and her family embark on aroad-trip around Australia.

Withsongs, fun and quokkas,this new show frommulti-awardwinning playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer is acelebration of family, love, and the diversity and beauty of Australia, ideal for children aged three to ten and their adults.

Are We There Yet? is showing on Monday, May 8 at 6:30pm, and Tuesday, May 9at10amand 1pm at the John LeslieTheatre

To book your seats,visitthewedge.com.au or phone the box office on 5143 3200.

Film night? It’s your Decision

TOMORROW eveningheraldsthe next screening of the Sale Film Society.

This month’s picture is Decision to Leave, hailing fromSouth Koreaand directed by Park Chan-wook -the auteur behind 2003’s Oldboy and 2016’s The Handmaiden Its story follows Hae-joon (Park Hae-il),a seasoned detective who suspects awidow, Seo-rae (Tang Wei)isimplicatedinthe death of herhusband.

Societypresident Rob Ziffer saysthe film is another in aseries of well-regarded South Korean movies.

He describes the pictureas“aromanticcomedy, but not in the traditional Hollywood sense.”

“It’s well worth viewing for the interesting plot, and the complex relationship between the two main characters,” Dr Ziffer said.

At its Cannes Film Festival premiere last year, Decision to Leave won aBestDirector prize, and later went on to receive Best Actress and Best Screenplay accolades at the Asian Film Awards.

Decision to Leave will be screening Wednesday, May 3from7.30pm at The Wedge. Entry is free to members and $10 for non-members.

For moreinformationabout the Society, visit the official webpage:salefilmsociety. wordpress.com

Image: Madman Films

Photo: CDP Theatre Productions

Briagolong Ukulele Strum Session

Sale City Band BrassAcademy with tutor Tom Cousin.

Photos:Contributed

Brand new family home in Stratford

Ifyou are after abrand-new homebut don’t want to go through the process of building, then 7Sittella Court could be theperfect option.

Amodernand spacious home, newlybuiltand positioned on alarge 961sqm block in aquiet family court.

Agents say the home offers asubstantial amount of space with afloor plan that has been well designed for family living. Externally, the large backyard has plenty of room for shedding to be built and provides the opportunity to landscape to suit your needs.

Property features:

 Modern front façade with established lawn;

 Generous master suite at the front of the home with walk in robe and ensuite;

 Afurther three largebedrooms,one with walk in robe and the otherswith builtinrobes;

 Spacious open plan kitchen/dining and living area withplentyofnatural light, split system heating/coolingfor year round comfort;

 Sleek and contemporary kitchen with island bench, plentyofdrawersand substantial walk in pantry;

 Separate rumpus room, office or toy room for the kids;

 Central family bathroom with vanity, shower and separate bath;

 Double garage with direct access into the house and rear yard;

 Includes builders fit out Optic Fibre Package and access to NBN.

Briefdetails fdetails

Property:New four bedroom, two :New ur bathroom home

Address: 7Sittella Court, Stratford Ad t,

Price: $555,000

Contact: Tony Kiss, Wellington Real Kiss,Wellington Estate, 0419 526 637

Made forfamily

Briefdetails

Spectacular farmhouse andvineyard

Set privately on 7.89 hectares overlooking the Macalister River, LakeGlenmaggie and the foothills of the Great Dividing Range this 2010-built Italian farmhouse inspired home is perfectly blended with its surroundings.

Rawand natural features are dominant throughout with exposed aggregate polished concrete floors, timber feature walls and brick highlights. The heart of the home once again makes the most of the views with a well-appointed kitchen, dining area and a spacious lounge room with open fireplace.

Outside is tastefully landscaped and joins the inside to the out, with tiered entertaining zones that all enhance the viewsand wind down to the swimming pool. The vineyard has approximately 300 established Fiano vines that produce approximately 250 bottles ofwhite wine in the styling of a Chardonnay or Riesling. Just imagine sitting and overlooking the beautiful surrounds while enjoying aglass of wine from your very own vineyard.

There is also aluxuriously appointed bunkhouse, perfect for extended familyor guests, which brings the totalnumber of bedrooms up to seven and bathrooms to four Alarge dam on the south side of the block and afurther building by the river allows for afurther entertaining space.

Approximately two and half hours from Melbourne CBD, this could well be the lifestyle change you have been looking for For sale by expression of interest by 5pm on May 25, 2023.

Inspection by Appointment.

Living on the edge ofan exclusivecourt

Located on the Northern edge of Sale, just afew minutes’ drive from the CBD and popular recreational facilities is this wonderful lifestyle allotment. Offering 4036sqm (approx.) in the prestigious Kestrel Court, this allotment provides ample space to build your dream home, with room for all the extras like shedding, tennis court or pool. All services are available and the property’s corner location allows for access from Cobains Road as well as from Kestrel Court. Agents say this is the allotment, with extra room to spread out and not too farfrom the town centre, 2Kestrel Court is the destination for you!

Briefdetails

•107 acres,sheds to die for, swimming pool and comfortable home,all within walking or bikeriding distancetothe General Store •35OldWalhalla RdToongabbie boast scenic viewsacross the surrounding mountains,three road frontages,solid stockyards and awell fenced farm divided into manageable paddocks •The home features

•Unique home set amongst 115 acresoftrees

•This hiddengem hascopious amounts of characterand charmfromthe momentyou turnintothe driveway

•The solid brick homeismade up of over 70,000 bricks outof the old Boarding House on Foster Street Sale

•The bedrooms areofgenerous sizewith the master including WIR and ensuite, the openplankitchen diningfamily room areinthe heartofthe home with asecond living and dining locatedjustoff this with abeautiful open fireplaceasthe center piece

•Outside features include,beautiful verandas, garage and carport, outdoor area, 115 acres (approx), shed, machinery/ hayshed andsplitintomultiple paddockswith fivedams

Agents- Aaron Ralph 0456 215 087 Glen Synnott 0467 550 904

73

•This spacious home is set perfectly on 4acres and only a shortwalk from the shores of LakeGlenmaggie

•The home has twolarge living areas which bothtakein the views

•Each of the bedroomsare greatsizewith BIR’s and the master bedroom features WIR and ensuite

•A well appointed kitchen leads out to asubstantial deck which overlooks the back of the land

•Toadd to the versatilitythereisanexcellent mancave perfect forentertaining,abarn style garage/workshop with adjoining carports and established vegetable gardens and chook house

2ASH STREET,HEYFIELD

The complete country lifestylefor your family

LOCATED only five kilometres from Sale,isthis spacious and modern four bedroom, two living/open plan residence with home office and gym room, nestled on two manicured acres.

The property features asun-filled east facing front lounge which overlooks the established, low maintenance gardens.

The stunning kitchen has been enhanced with plenty of cupboard space, walk in butler’s pantry, gas cooktop, stainless steelappliancesand beautiful island breakfast bench.

The master bedroom boast asizeable walk-inrobe and ensuite, as well as aversatile adjoining room to utilise as agym or home office. The remaining bedrooms offer built in robesand two are conveniently equipped with built in study desks.

Awonderful, rendered Koolwall,home for agrowing family in the popular and establishedtownship of Longford, enjoy the local country walking tracks, golf course, or just bicycle into the city of Sale.

This generous two-acre property comprises substantialenhancementswith double garage, in-ground solar heated pool, huge decked undercover entertainment area with kitchenette.

There’s also agigantic three-bay powered workshop/shed (25.2m x7.5m) plus aone bedroom sleep-out with lounge, bathroom and kitchenette,

Briefdetails

Property: Stunning lifestyle property ty: pr ty

Address: 30 Boggy Creek Rd, Longford ess: BoggyCreek Rd,Longford

Price: $899,000

Contact: SusanMitrevski,Mittens Real SusanMitrevski, Mittens

Estate, 0408 403 800 e, 403800

whichwould make an ideal space for visitors or ateenage retreat.

The property also boasts two large water tanks (140,000L combined), 15 solar panels, internal fencing,two 3m x3mgarden sheds, plenty of parking space and more.

Everything is already in place on the beautifully set out property, including chook house, low maintenance gardens and fruit trees.

Just move in and enjoy the lifestyle and space! Call today for aprivate viewing.

RENOVATEORRECREATE

AUCTION: SATURDAY 6TH MAYAT10:30AMONSITE

170SALE ROAD, MAFFRA

Specialising g in rural properrty across Gipppsland

Greg Tuckett 0428 826600 0

ROOM FOR ALL THE FAMILY

FOR SALE $775,000

2/25

MODERN TOWNHOUSE, CENTRALLYLOCATED

FOR SALE $359,000

Wool production trial complete

Zoe Askew

GIPPSLAND Sheep Breeders Associations' 2020 two-year Merino Wether wool production trial was officially completed last month, with the final sheeringtaking place on Friday, April 21, at East Gippsland Field Days.

Sixteenwoolgrowers across Gippsland and northeastern Victoria entered teams of five Merino Wethers in the two-year wool production trial in 2020, with all sheep run on the Gippsland Agricultural Group site adjacent to the Bairnsdale Aerodrome, for the entirety of the trial.

In late April, the opening day of the 2023 East Gippsland Field Days, teams descended upon the Bairnsdale Aerodrome for the second and final sheeringofthe two-year Merino Wether wool production trial.

Nutrien Ag Solutions Gippsland Wool Manager and member of the Gippsland Sheep Breeders

AssociationDonaldRash explained that preshearing, mid-side samples are tested for fibre diameter (micron),length, strength, and yield, with sheep weighed and valued to determine the most productive sheep/teams.

"The trial is acomparison of wool values for each sheep," Mr Rash said.

"Fleeces are valued, the pieces are valued, the belliesare valued for each sheep, andyou get a total [score] for each sheep in each team, and the higher the value, that range of sheep wins.

"As this was the final shearing of this trial, sheep were weighed post-shearing, and acarcase value applied."

While teams of five sheep are entered into the Gippsland Sheep Breeders Association trial, sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions, only four are valued as part of the final result.

"Each grower puts in ateam of five sheep, they select their cull, which isn't calculated in the end

result,soit'sa bit of aguessingcompetition involved as well," Mr Rash said.

"So only the four sheep growers pick out are valued in the trial."

Russell and Marg Bennett of Everton Upper won the Overall Fleece Award and the Freeman Lett Trophy for Most ValuableFleece, valuedat $130.85; this sheep won the same award at the 2022 shearing.

The Everton Upper pair also placed first in the 2023 Shearing category with an average sheep wool value of $120.26.

Toongabbie's Paulett family placed second with an average sheepwoolvalue of $111.03, and Giffard West's Ivan and Di Best placed third with an average sheep wool value of $101.49.

Woodside's Jenny Foat and family took out the Most Valuable Group Carcase Award with an average of $86.85.

David andLyn Yates from GoonNureplaced

second with an average carcase value of $85.40, while Ivan and Di Best came third with an average carcase value of $83.42.

TrevorBennett from Everton Upper won the Breeder Ranking Competition, with Gordon Moon from Wulgulmerang and Alister Micallef from Bairnsdale placing equal-second.

The GippslandSheep BreedersAssociation is considering team entrants of five or 10, preferably Merino Wethers, 2022 drop, for their next trial, with five sheep shorn at eight months, three times over two years and five at 12 months.

GippslandSheepBreeders Association president John Freemansaysthis would ideally help provide helpful comparisons of costs and income of two separate shearing programmes.

If interested, please contact as soon as possible, either John Freemanat0407685 228 or Madi Gallagher,Gippsland Sheep BreedersAssociation secretary, at 0497 842 949.

Aquatic outbreak resources now available

VETS, fish farm workers, fisheries staff and scientists could gain valuable insights intoaquatic animal disease events, thanks to anew book and online courses from Agriculture Victoria.

Agriculture Victoria principal Veterinary Officer, Dr Tracey Bradley has specialised in aquatic animal health for more than 16 years and co-authored the resources.

“These resources provide another tool for investigating and responding to emergency biosecurity events, and continue to strengthen Victoria’s biosecurity capability,” Dr Bradley said.

“In what’s believed to be an Australian-first, our book brings together the 10 essential steps for investigating aquatic disease events in the

wildoron-farm, and includeseasy-to-understand casestudies.

“Readers will discover how to define acase, collect and analyse data, and describe an outbreak over both time and place -information which will help to determine the cause, relevant controls and, ideally, how to prevent future events.”

Recently recognised with afederal government Biosecurity Commendation Certificatefor her efforts supporting the farmed abalone industry to manage aviral disease of abalone, Dr Bradley drew on her experience to develop the resources.

“Even with the bestbiosecurity practices things can move quickly whendisease hits, so it’sessential to investigate as soon as you notice something is

wrong,” Dr Bradley said.

Complementary e-learning modulesprovide clear information on how to submit the best sample possible to help reach adiagnosis.

The resources were co-authored by Agriculture Victoria senior Veterinary Officer Epidemiology,Dr Nicole McLaughlin and developed with the assistanceofthe Fisheries Research and Development Corporation.

The outbreak investigation guidelines book and e-learning modules are available free on the AgricultureVictoriawebsite at agriculture.vic. gov.au/fish-outbreak

The last shavefor this Merino Wether Photos: ZoeAskew Final touchesbeforethe fleece is weighed.

Atotal of 80 sheep wereshorn on dayone of East Gippsland FieldDays, as part of the Gippsland Sheep Breeders Associations’ 2020 two-yearMerinoWether wool production trial

Laying out the freshly shorn sheep fleece before weighing

AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship winners announced

TWENTY-TWO scholars have been awarded the 2023 Horizon Scholarship, an initiative supported by seven Research and Development Corporations (RDC’s), along with Kalyx Australia, Baiada Poultry, Southern NSW Innovation Hub and Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre (MBCRC).

The scholarship is in place to develop the next generation of rural leaders.

The Horizon Scholarship provides scholars with a $10,000 bursary over two years, thanks to ongoing support from industry sponsors.

As part of the program, students also attend an annual four-day professional development workshop and completetwo weeks of industry placement each year, all of which is covered by the support of their sponsor.

The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship program provides the next generation of leaders with opportunities to start their leadership skills and expand their networks.

AgriFutures Australia managing director,John Harvey congratulated the 22 students from across Australia on their successand welcomed these futurerural leaders to the AgriFuturesHorizon Scholarship program

“Congratulations to our 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarshiprecipients, whose exceptional passion, ambition, andcommitment to agriculture has distinguishedthem fromatalented pool of applicants," he said.

"We are so appreciative to our industry sponsors for their investment in supporting the next generation of ruralleaders,”.

Students are carefully paired with industry sponsors that align with their career aspirations and industry experience.

Support from sponsors is key to the program’s success and assists students to network with industry leaders and learn new skills relevant to acareer in their chosen field.

This year's sponsors include Grains Research &Development Corporation (GRDC),Kalyx Australia, Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre (MBCRC), Baiada Poultry,

Southern NSW Innovation Hub, Australian Eggs, Australian WoolInnovation (AWI), Dairy Australia, Meat &Livestock Australia (MLA), Hort Innovation, Cotton Research and Development Corporation(CRDC), AgriFutures evokeAG.,and the AgriFutures ExportFodder,Thoroughbred Horses, Rice, Pasture Seeds and Chicken Meat Programs.

Mr Harvey thanked the Horizon Scholarship sponsors, and acknowledged their significant contribution to the program, particularlyinoffering students valuableexposure to the agricultural sector.

“The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship program would not be possible without our sponsors. The diversity of industry sponsors reflects the desire across the board to focus on our future leaders who will build prosperous and sustainable rural industries of the future," he said.

“I encourage scholars to make themostofthe fantastic opportunities their industrysponsors provide. They will be able to collaborate across rural industries, participate in valuable work placements and attend workshops that will open doors to asuccessful career in their chosen field."

All studentsinvolved with the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship program will attend afourday workshop in July focused on leadership and personal development.

The workshop willfeature special guest speakers and industry experts, whileadditionally providing the opportunitytonetwork, meet sponsors and discuss innovations and challengesinthe agricultural sector.

Find outmore about the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship at agrifutures.com.au/horizon

Australia passed peak foodprice inflation

THE latest Consumer PriceIndex(CPI) datafrom the AustralianBureau of Statistics, shows annual top-lineAustralian food price inflationhad slowed to 8.0 per cent in the March 2023 quarter, from 9.2 per cent seen in the previous (December 2022) quarter.

Rabobank senior food retail analyst Michael Harvey said while this easing was good news for consumers, indicating “Australia has passed peak food inflation as we had largely been anticipating,” the figure was still well above the long-term (10-year) average of food inflation of 2.2 per cent.

Mr Harvey said the March 2023 CPI showed there were “mixed results across the food basket which reinforces Rabobank’s view that food price inflation will remain elevated for some time, and it will be abumpyroad to amore normal food inflation environment locally”.

Mr Harvey said the outlook for food price inflation for the remainder of year would be dependent on growing conditions for Australia’s agricultural sector.

“And we will also be keeping aclose watch on global pressures,which have contributed to the food inflationary pressures, such as commodity markets, supply chain shocks and elevated energy prices,” he said.

Overall, the latest figures showed “themeat aisles are providing less ‘sticker shock’ for consumers."

“For example, deflation was actually evident

in lamb -the only sub-category in food to record adecline in prices. Lamb prices declined 2.4 per cent year-on-year compared with a3.2 per cent year-on-year increase recorded in the previous quarter,” Mr Harvey said.

Lower price inflation levels (of single digits and below the headline 8.0 per cent) werealso recorded for other categories including vegetables, beef, pork and spreads, according to Rabobank.

Rabobank associate analyst Pia Piggottsaid some fresh produce is seeing the benefit of more normal growing conditions and betteravailability.

“That said, fruit price inflation is stillup10.6per cent year-on-year, with the impacts from weather events in 2022still being felt on supplyand prices of fruit,”she said.

“Avocados have alsoseen quiteahigh increase in prices over the first quarter of the year as supply from Western Australia was down, but as we have seen prices soften more recently and expect this to continue to do so as Queensland begins its Hass avocado harvest.”

Mr Harvey said some food categories “remain challenging for Aussieconsumerswith double digit rates of inflation still seen for bread, dairy andcooking oils.”

“And rates of inflation actually increased in the March 2023 quarter for cheese, snacks and eggs."

“(It would) remain avolatile consumer market ahead given the broader cost of living pressures.”

Lucy Ford,fromCharles Sturt University,isone of the scholarship recipients

Photo: Contributed

CENTRAL GIPPSLAND

MAFFRA

MUNICIPAL BAND

Tuesdays at Maffra Memorial Hall:

6.30-7.30 Training Band (woodwind, brass and percussion -come and learn or relearn!).

7.30-8.30 String Ensemble (not for beginners).

Wednesdays at Band Rooms, Maffra Rec Reserve, Newry Rd. 9am-10.30 Ukulele Group. 6.30-9pm Concert Band and Stage Band (experienced players only). Contact Rob Woodhouse on 0411 434 520

WELLINGTON SHIRE

Draft Council Budget 2023/24

Seeking Submissions on the draft 2023/24 Budget

WellingtonShire Council has prepared adraftBudget forthe financial year commencing on 1July 2023 and ending 30 June 2024 and is seeking written submissions.

The draft 2023/24 Budget willbeavailable on Council’s websitewww.wellington.vic.gov.au from Wednesday 19 April to Monday 8May 2023.

Submission Process

Submissions will be consideredinaccordancewith

Section 96 of the LocalGovernment Act 2020. Any person proposing to makeawritten submission on thedraft 2023/24 Budget must do so no later than 5.00pmon Monday 8May 2023.

Thereare three options availablefor submissions:

Hardcopy: Your submission shouldbeaddressed to the Chief Executive Officer,WellingtonShire Council, 18 Desailly Street (PO BOX506), SaleVIC 3850 and marked as DRAFT BUDGET SUBMISSION.

Online: Complete the online submission form on the Your Wellington Your Say website (https://your.wellington.vic.gov.au/).

In Person: Attend the Special Council Meeting on Thursday 18 May 2023 from 3:00pm at the Council Chambers, Port of Sale (Wellington Centre)70Foster Street, Sale. Any person wishing to be heard in support of theirsubmission is entitled to be heardbyCouncil or be representedbyaperson acting on their behalf,atthe Special Council Meetingon Thursday 18 May 2023at3.00pm in the Council Chamberatthe WellingtonCentre, 70 Foster Street,Sale

After consideration of submissions,Council will consider the adoption of the 2023/24BudgetataCouncil Meeting on

COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM

The Fingerboards project is a project of major significance for the local region that will support economic growth and local jobs for many years.

As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the local community, Gippsland Critical Minerals Pty Ltd is launching aCommunity Grants Program to support community initiatives that enhance the quality of life, heritage, recreation, and cultural opportunities and provide long lasting benefits to the wider community.

Grant funding is available for projects within the Educational, Recreational, Environmental and Social aspects of the community.

Atotal of $40,000 annually will be provided, consisting of five $2000 grants each quarter. These grants must have adirectpositive outcome for the local community, adding to a project in apositive and sustainable manner.

To be eligible to apply local organizations must:

● Be an organization that provides benefit to the broader community.

● The Project must be completed within six months of receipt of funds. This may be extended upon written approval from the committee should extenuating circumstances arise.

● Organizations must agree to expend grant monies only in accordance with the successful grant project application.

● The project must be based within the East Gippsland and Wellington communities.

● Applicants must detail how the project will be funded and delivered.

Round 2isnow open.

Applications will close 2nd June 2023 at 5pm. Successful applicants will be advised in June 2023.

For further information please visit our website at https:/www.gippslandcriticalminerals.com

Want to earn some pocket money?

Newspaper Deliverers required for Stratford once aweek

Please

Rotafab is seeking ahard working &enthusiastic team member for the position of Gate Officer at our Wurruk facility.

This is apermanent part time position with the following hours:

●

● 5:00am -10:00am Friday Duties include, but are not limited to:

● Welcoming people to site

● Granting access to authorised staff, visitors, and contractors

● Maintaining electronic records of access to site

● Receival of deliveries as appropriate Abasic understanding of technology (computers

Situations Vacant

LETTERBOX DISTRIBUTORS WANTED

DO YOU NEED EXTRA $$$$'S ?

MRA Distributors are seeking individuals and families, community groups, sporting groups and schools to participate in the distribution of telephone directories.

This is agreat opportunity to earn some extra money to help with household expenses or to fundraise.

ABN essential.

Contact Kerri 0429 214 229 or info@mrad.com.au and leave your name, contact number and area of interest.

Administration Assistant

Due to continued business growth at Pund & Associates we are seeking applications to join our friendly and efficient Administration team in our Maffra office. The role will be an administration assistant. The position will be offered on afull-time basis.

The successful applicant must have the following skills:

● At least 2years' experience in office administration.

● Good time management and organisation skills with the ability to work unsupervised.

● Sound knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook as well as sound general computer skills.

● Being client focused and with awillingness to help.

Pund &Associates is afamily owned and operated business. We service clients throughout Gippsland and Melbourne with a focus on supporting growing businesses.

If you are interested in acareer with us and are motivated and enjoy working in asmall team environment we want you to apply.

Please forward your resume along with acover letter to: kellie@pundandassociates.com.au

Applications close: Friday 5th May 2023.

Human Resources &OfficeAdministrator

We are seeking the services of an enthusiastic and motivated Administration Assistant Experience in a service driven organisation and competent computer skills are essential Exceptional communication skills are necessary along with the ability to be sensitive to grieving people

Applicants will need to have a strong attention to detail

Written applications are invited from suitably quali ed persons and close Friday 5th May

Please email applications to accounts@lettsfunerals com au

Full Time Diesel

Mechanic/Equipment Maintenance

Covino Farms, Longford

This position reports to the Maintenance Manager and will be responsible for maintenance of heavy vehicles, agricultural equipment and various machinery across our site ensuring all repairs are completed in atimely and safe manner.

As aDiesel Mechanic, you will diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair Diesel vehicles and equipment to ensure smooth functioning of the company's operations. To be successful in this role ideally youwill have:

● Heavy Diesel Experience.

● Minimum 5years' experience as aDiesel Mechanic in the service and maintenance of heavy diesel vehicles, agricultural equipment, and similar applications.

● Previous workshop exposure would be highly regarded.

● Solid diagnostic capabilities.

● Amature attitude and logical and methodical approach to your work.

Please forward your resume to hr@covino.com.au

Advertising Consultant -Sales

Part-time

The Gippsland Times is your local newspaper, distributing our publications throughout the Wellington Shire and beyond.

Apart-time position has become available for a sales consultant in our advertising department. The department is responsible for managing and exceeding set targets set out by management, maintaining astrong client base throughout the local community and through the print and online medium, working to strengthen and promote local businesses.

We are seeking an individual with the following positive attributes:

● Must work as part of ateam.

● Organised and able to work to deadlines.

● Be motivated as well as goal orientated.

● Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

● The ability to work unsupervised. For acopy of the position description, please email Advertising Manager, Matthew Fitzgerald: mfitzgerald@gippslandtimes.com.au or phone 5143 9309.

Applications addressing the positive attributes along with the names and contact details of three referees should be forwarded to:

The Advertising Manager Gippsland Times 74 Macalister Street, Sale 3850

Or via email: mfitzgerald@gippslandtimes.com.au

Applications close 5pm, Friday May 5, 2023.

FORD TERRITORY

Caravans •

CAMPERVAN

Nissan 1988 high roof, many extras including solar panels. Roadworthy cond. Ph 0487 671 525. 681 YIA

GRANT'S RoyalFlair

2011, 21ft, reg. July '23, Limited Edition, dual axle, hot water service, full ensuite, washing machine, large bed, rev. air cond., fully maint., large fridge, many extras $42,000. Ph 0412 963 561.

NOVA VITA van, 2009, semi off road, 18'6, a/c, diesel, HTR rev/camera, q/bed, oven, m/wave, 3way fridge, 23" TV/CD, BBQ, water filter, heaps more, loads of storage. 1owner, $38,000. M-0412 843 302.

4WD

•

McInnes Earthmoving is acivil construction company, with operations across Victoria in road, rail water infrastructure and forestry. We are seeking ahighly motivated, reliable, and responsible individual who can add value to our company.

The position is located in the Heyfield office and hours of work are 7:30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Duties will include:

● Dealing with correspondence, emails, phone calls, portals, and day to day administrative support.

● Organising meetings, trainingand appointments.

● Booking and arranging travel, transport and accommodation.

● Assist with seeking, completing, submitting and organising quotes/tenders.

● General office administration, purchasing, documentation &form creation, note taking, registers, and meeting minutes.

● Providing clear ,concise information to a variety of stakeholders including employees, corporate clients, councils, training agencies, and government agencies.

Your Experience:

● Previous experience in asimilar position.

● Proactive attitude and initiative.

● Exceptional organisational, communication, and writing skills.

● High level of attention to detail.

● Good time management and planning skills.

● Ability to work accurately and efficiently within required timeframes.

● high-level knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, Outlook, and Excel.

● Demonstrated ability to work in ateam environment, but also self-managing.

● Current Victorian Driver's Licence. Please send resume to office@mcinnesearthmoving.com.au

Motoring Deal

Birthdays •

Ken Paterson

Happy90th Birthday

Deaths •

DYER (nee Duncan), Carol Elaine. Passed away 29/4/2023. Special memories of times gone by.

Lovealways,Scott, Julieanne, James and Cassie, and Anna and Darcy.

DYER (nee Duncan), Carol Elaine. 28/9/1941 to 29/4/2023. Mother and mother-in-law to David and Jo, loved Nanna to Courtney and Jye, Stephanie and Jacob and Great Nanna to Arki and Riva. Special thank you to the team at Royal Freemasons, Sale for taking great care of Carol who died suddenly aged 82 years. Abeautiful, kind soul who will be sadly missed. Finally at peace.

PLEYDELL, Clinton James. Nephew of Bill (dec.) and Kathleen. Cousin of Leanne (Gallatly), Jennifer (O'Do nnell), Alecia (Dignan) and Michael. Rest peacefully Clinton

PLEYDELL, Clinton James. 4/11/1964 -26/4/2023

Passed away peacefully at McDonald Wing Maffra with his beautiful caring mother Pami by his side. His sister Nadine and Auntie Pat always on call. Clinton had acondition called spina bifida and suffered all his life but always did his best to try in having lots of fun with his cousins when they were younger and and family. As he got older it was astruggle but he was clever with cross stitch and jigsaws. Clinton, rest in peace darling with sisters and brothers Joanne, Andrea, Adam and Lonnie (all dec.). Bless you all. All our love, Pat, Dev, Peter,Kristen, Mike, Wendy, Leesa, Jamie and families. xxx

PLEYDELL, Clinton. Passed away 26th April 2023. Loved nephew of Peggy and John Minard. Cousin of Chris and Mellisa. Sadly missed.

SIMM, Dorothy. Treasured friend of 35 years. So many wonderful memories. Our deepest condolences to Geoff, Jodie, Andrea and families. RIP Doff. Love Rob, Rhonda and family.

WHITE, Viola.

Sister-in-law of Clyde (dec.) and Mona, Aunty of Denise, Stan, Jeffrey (dec.), Garry, Joy and Phillip. Great aunt of their respective families. With sincere condolences to the family. Reunited with Alf. In God's care.

HAIG, Robyn Gail. 24/5/1959 -5/5/2019

It is with deep sadness that we mark the fourth anniversary of Robyn growing her angel wings and soaring high to watch over us.

Loved and admired by family, friends and her countless former students. It's been four long years Poss. Shine brightly Alpha Centauri. Pete, Buddy and Molly.

STONE, Sharon Ann. 23/1/60-29/4/22

Twelve hard months have passed and we love and think about you and miss you every day.

We will never forget all that you have meant to us and all you did to help us.

Mum and Dad (Doreen and Jack Pedersen) Bryan and Leanne, Dan and your little mate Missi.

MALMO, Jakob AO 6/5/1939 -17/3/2023

I, Jeannie Malmo, on behalf of myself and my family would like to sincerely thank all the many peopl eand businesses for the beautiful floral tributes and cards at the time of the sudden passing of my muchloved husband Jakob. It would have meant so much to Jakob to know Iwas so well supported in my grief. One local card summed up our loss with the words "Jakob was such a memorable character with that twinkle in his eye and

DWYER, John Stephen "Jack" OAM

12/2/1928 -27/4/2023

Of Maffra, formerly of "Innisfail" Newry.

Jack passed away peacefully at Central Gippsland Health after along and happy life.

Loving husband of Frances for 64 years.

Proud father of Anne, Pauline, Stephen, Catherine, Gavan, Greg, Chris and Tim.

Father-in-law to Jamie, Val, Veronica, Tim, Georgina, Wendy, Jane and Connie.

Cherished Grandfather of Michaeland Jane, Katherine, Xavier and Matthew; Claire, Peter and Tayla and Joseph; John and Thomas; Annie, Thomas, Sebastian and Patrick; William and Grace; Jack, Alexandra and Marnie; Edward, Greta and Lucy; Christopher, Luke, Frances and Anastasia.

Great Grandfather of Eliza and Patrick.

Beloved son of William and Alice Dwyer, Brother of Bill, Leo, Margaret, Anne and Eileen.

Alife well lived and loved by all.

May he rest in peace.

DWYER, Jack.

Deepest sympathy to all his family. Much respected good friend and neighbour to the Hornby family.

FOX (nee Birss), Faye Marie. Passed away peacefully in Albury aged 74 years. Loved daughter of Ken and Vi (both dec.). Sister to Greg and Wendy (Crutchfield). Aunt to many. RIP

McCANN, Ross. It is with great sadness that the family of Ross McCann (Rossco) of Sale announce his death.

30/07/1965 -26/04/2023

Aged 57. Son of Don and Pat. Brother to Bruce and Rachel.

Loving father to Lisa, her partner Tyson and proud pop of Harry and Ebony. Fondly remembered by Margaret, Dave, Nita and their families.

Margaret, Sonya, Jo and their families.

PLEYDELL, Clinton James. 4/11/1964 -26/4/2023

Passed away at McDonald Wing, Maffra District Hospital.

The fifth link broken in our family and leaving us broken hearted once again.

Thank you so much to those who looked after Clinton for years.

Love -Dad, Mum and sister Nadine.

Farewell Clint, Glad Igot to spend some valuable time with you over the last few months.

Thanks for being agreat big brother.

Iwill always miss your infectious smile, fun and smart, witty attitude.

Say hi to the gang, sending you all hugs from me and don't worry, I'll look after Mum.

LovealwaysNadine, Fonzie, Meg and Maddi xoxoxoxoxo.

PLEYDELL, Clinton. 26/4/2023. In remembrance of adear nephew, and cousin to Brett, Scott, Nicole and families. God love him, he is at rest now. Our thoughts go out to Pam and Barrie, Nadine, Mick and Maddison and Meg and all the Pleydell family on this sad day. Our deepest sympathy to all of you.

Pauline and George Findlay

SIMM (nee Daniel), Dorothy Anne "Doff"

Born on March 16, 1949.

Passed on April 26, 2023 at Monash Medical Centre, aged 74 years.

Loved wife of Geoffrey. Mum to Jodie and Andrea.

Mother-in-law to Adrian and Brett.

Grandma to Will, Ben, Tom and Abby.

Sister to Roger, Colin, and Barbara.

Forever in our Hearts.

Dear Grandma, Thank you for all of your love, food and socks. With so much love, Your grandchildren.

Funerals •

DWYER. Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Mr John Stephen "Jack" Dwyer OAM will be offered at St. Mary's Catholic Church ,cnr. Church and McMillan Streets, Maffra on THURSDAY (May 4, 2023) commencing at 1pm. At the conclusion of Mass the cortege will leave the church for the Maffra cemetery.

Please visit our website for the livestream of Jack's service.

Rosary will be recited in the above church Wednesday evening at 7.30pm.

TREW, Robert John. 02/05/1994 May the winds of Heaven blow softly And whisper in your ear How much we love and miss you And wish that you were here Gone but never forgotten Dad and Pa of Jenni, Kristopher, Nicholas and Katie.

Funeral Directors

Barry &Annette Lett

67 Macarthur Street, Sale Phone 51431232

PLEYDELL. The funeral for Mr. Clinton JamesPleydell is appointed to leave All Saint's Anglican Church, Briagolong after a service commencing at 11am TOMORROW (Wednesday May 3, 2023) for the Briagolong Cemetery.

SIMM (nee Daniel).

For funeral arrangements for Mrs Dorothy Anne 'Doff' Simm, please check our website or phone:

Glengarry gathers to celebrate

LiamDurkin

WINNINGaflaginregular time is so mainstream.

Glengarry Football-Netball Club gathered recentlytocommemorate 10 years since one of the most extraordinary events ever seen in local sport.

Actually, scratch that -sport in general.

The 2013 North Gippsland Football-Netball League Grand Final is sure to live long in the memory of all who were present that day.

On that day at Traralgon Recreation Reserve -on Saturday, September 14, 2013 to be precise -the Magpies won their first premiership in 17 years, in the most truly astonishing of fashions.

Just four points separated Glengarry and Heyfield at three quarter time.

Nothingseparated them at the endofregular time.

In adramatic finish, played out in front of arecord crowd of 4400 people, the Magpies went on to win the premiership in extra time.

It remains arguably the most unique and remarkable Grand Final victory in NGFNL history.

Those who were there will surely neverforget it.

Those who weren’t surely wish they were.

For the enjoyment of both however (well, maybe except Heyfield supporters), this is the full story.

HARD ROAD

GLENGARRY hit alot of speed bumps on the way to 2013.

The Magpies made the Grand Final in 2011, and lost to Churchill by 17 points.

This came ayear after theybombed out in straight sets, losingthe firstsemi final by 102 points to Rosedale.

Therewas another early finalsexit in 2012, although this time,itcame in the elimination final by just five points.

After going outinstraightsetsin2010,losing the grand final in 2011, and losing afinal by under akick in 2012, the Glengarry Magpies could have been forgiven for thinking the Colliwobbles weren’t just confined to the AFL team.

Josh King coached the team in 2010 and'11, before his successor, Ryan Potter stepped in.

Little was anyone to know the key role bothmen would end up playing in 2013.

The transition wasrather seamless,asPotter and King had played together in the SANFL for Woodville West Torrens.

Potterwon aflag with the Eagles in 2006,before coming to Traralgon, and further onto Glengarry

“The wholereason Icame to Glen was we played at Eagles together, Kingyand Ialwayswanted to play together again, his hometown was Glen,” Potter recalled.

Despite the recentshortcomings, Potter, who was best afield for the Magpiesinthe 2011 Grand Final loss, believed the sidewas on the right path.

“I always believed in my head we were building,” he said.

“We lost in '11, '12 we could havegone further, we lost to Cowwarr by five points in the elimination final,Ithink we were the two teams having agood run that could have gone further. Cowwarrgot within one point of making the prelim, if we beat them maybe we would have made the prelim.

“The next year Ithought it would be our year. We recruited acouple, the start was terrible, but then once it clicked we just built on it and got that confidence.”

HORROR SHOW

THE start to 2013 was indeed terrible for Glengarry.

After the first six games, the Magpies had agrand total of one win to their name.

While asix-pointloss to previous year preliminary finalists Sale City in the opening round could have gone either way, there was no such narrative the next week, as Glengarry was poleaxed by reigning premier Heyfield to the tune of 89 points.

The Magpies kicked just three goals in that encounter.

Glengarry restoredsome lost pridewitha

gutsy 20-point win over Cowwarr, in what was an emotion-charged match following the death of club legend Colin May.

The efforttowin thatmatch may have drained the black and white army, as they losttheir next three games to Traralgon Tyers United, Gormandale and Churchill.

After the loss to Churchill by 36 points in Round 6, the Magpies sat equal last on the ladder.

Imagine the odds you would have got for a Glengarry flag at that stage.

With their seasonthreateningtoslipaway, Potter got the Magpies together for achat.

“Therewas afew discussions. Isat the teamdown and asked them what we were doing well, what we could improve,” he said.

Despite what the ladder suggested, the Magpies realised they actually weren’t that far off.

Three of their five losses had been by under two goals, and they had restricted the opposition scoring to an average of three goals aquarter.

The issue as far as Potter could see, was at the other end of the ground.

“We kept teams low but we couldn’t score,” he said.

“I was worried but Josh King was out; Kingy is big for us, our key forward.When he came back he kicked 10 against Rosedale who were top and we beat them.

“We were lucky also to have Nicho (Ben Nicholson) come back andGussy (Mark Engley). Gussy’s a key forward, he came back and kicked six, seven and nine.

“Once the forward line clicked we were off and running.”

TURNING POINT

WITH the bandbacktogether up forward, the Magpies set about stabilising their season. Glengarry got back to business,takingcare of RosedaleinRound 7, defeatingthe Blues 18.10 (118) to 10.11 (71).

The Magpies were again staunch in defence, only lettingthrough five goals up until threequarter time.

King announced himself with 10 goals, and the following week against Woodside,heand Matt Royal kicked five each.

Royal kicked 21 goals for the season playing in a variety of positions, while Ross McDermott nailed 38, averaging exactly two goals agame.

Key forward Mark ‘Guss’ Engley slotted 54 and King 72, and from Round 7toRound 12, the Magpies did not drop agame.

From 1-5, the Magpies were all of asudden 7-5, with awin over Heyfield amongthe lot.

Potter could sense Glengarry was well on their way.

“On-ball was good, backs were solid, oncewe worked out that we could kick goals and Gussy came back Nicho (Ben Nicholson) was huge on the wing,” he said.

“A few teams that beat us early, we got them back second time and beat them pretty easy.

“Probably once we knocked off Rosedale and Heyfield, they were the top three, Ifelt we were on track.”

FINALSRUN

THE Magpies won four of their last six to earn a top-three finish with an 11-7 record.

In what was an incredibly even NGFNL competition that year, teams two to five all ended on the same amount of points.

Heyfield finished three games clear on top, while Cowwarr and Woodside were the unlucky ones to miss out, despite winning 10 games each.

Churchill defeated the Kangaroos in the last round to qualify,and there was no shortage of conspiracy theories regarding the means of such aresult.

Nevertheless, Glengarry had qualified for the doublechance, and was arguably the in-form team of the competition.

The Magpies had only lost two games between

Glengarry’s 2013 premiership team.

Photo: Contributed

Glengarry2013premiership captain Dean Brooks andcoach Ryan Potter at the recent 10 year reunion.

Photo: Liam Durkin

10 years since epic premiership

mid-May and early August, one of which was by apoint to Woodside in the penultimate round.

Thismay have served as the loss Glengarry needed, as they then tunedupwitha115-point demolition of Boisdale-Briagolong the week before finals.

The Magpies faced Traralgon Tyers United in the qualifyingfinal -ateam they hadn’t beaten all season.

But, with form on their side, the Magpies dispatchedthe Bombers in abrutal exhibition, winning 11.24 (90) to 4.3 (27).

Glengarry then had Heyfield to deal with for a place in the Grand Final.

With their confidence up, the Magpies got the job done 18.8 (116) to 15.8 (98).

Glengarry captain at the time, DeanBrooks, believed theconfidence instilled in thegroup by Potter was akey factor.

“The bigthing was the belief in Pottsy himself from allthe boys,” he said.

“He instilled so much belief in us that we could be good, we’d never felt anything like that, no one had ever played under acoach like Pottsy.

“We honestly feltlike we could runthrougha brick wall any time we went out there.”

There was just one more brick wall to get through -the 2013 North Gippsland FNL Grand Final.

THE BIG ONE

HAVING earnt the week off, Glengarry was afforded the luxury of getting afeel for the Grand Final surface.

The Magpies trained on Traralgon Recreation Reserve, before finding out they would again be opposed to Heyfield.

The Kangaroos haddefeated Rosedaleby20 points, giving them achanceofclaiming backto-back flags.

Brooks recalls ideal weather during Grand Final week, while Potter recalled running with atheme of ‘everything matters’.

Acatch phrase for the Magpies was ‘don’t tell me, show me’.

Headinginto the match, and up against a Heyfield line-up that boasted the likes of former Hawthornplayer Adrian Cox,Pottersaidhis side had no reason to fear.

“Wewereconfident,” he said.

“They mighthave felt we had aluckysemibut we were confident.”

The Grand Final started with both sides enjoying periods of dominance.

Just three points separated the combatants at quartertime, as the Magpies and Kangaroos kicked four goals each.

Glengarry got on top in the second, adding five goals to one, to takeacomfortable 23-point lead into the main break.

Heyfield however hit back, and made the most of their opportunities in the third.

The Magpies had the chancetofurther their lead early in the third, only for aset shot to register a behind.

From that miss, the Kangaroos went down the other end, which set off asuccession of six unanswered goals.

In almostthe blinkofaneye,Heyfield had taken the lead, and were ahead by four points 11.8 (74) to 10.10 (70) at three quarter time.

The final term was truly nerve-killing, although not for Potter, who struck avery calm figure amid the madness.

“I was never worried which was weird, just stick to structure,” he recalls.

Sevengoals were kicked, along with some handy points, and with no one really knowing how long was left, scores were deadlocked when the siren sounded to signal the end of regular time.

GOING INTOO.T

IN the moments immediately following players realising the match had ended in adraw, there was aperiod of confusion from everyone involved, even the umpires.

Such wasthe rarity, the rule book had to be dusted off to check to see just what the protocol was.

Under NGFNL rules at the time, two 10-minute halves with no time on were to be played.

As Glengarry 500-gamer Trevor May remembers, there was aperiod of mass confusion.

“There was abit of confusion with the rules at thetime, extra time, five or 10 minutes before we knew what the go was,” he said.

May added another storylinetothe match, having told the group he was going to retire from senior football at the end of the season.

Due to idiosyncrasiesassociated with drawn finals, coaches weren’t allowed to address players out on the ground.

Fortunately for Glengarry, Potter, as aplayingcoach was able to at least have some say.

Keeping his sense of humour, Cox reportedly joked “see you next week”.

“You couldn’t speak to them, so lucky Iwas out there. Itoldthem ‘we’ve got this, believe in yourself, you know what we do, practice this’, but you couldn’t bring them all in and huddle, we just had to go and set up,” Potter said.

Understandably, with the madness of everything taken into account, extra time ended up being played with time on.

Glengarry got awaytoa fast start in the first

period of overtime, and fittingly, it was King who kicked the first goal.

He was to end up with seven in abest on ground display.

His seventh took the leadto14points, forcing some last ditch efforts from Heyfield, but the Magpies couldn’t be denied,asthey won their11th, and surely greatest, premiership.

It was the Magpies' first flag since 1996.

May playedinthattriumph, as well as 1994, butsaid 2013 held aspecial place in Glengarry FNC history.

“It’s definitely one of the top ones,” he said.

“Whether it’s aclubperson or outside club person, the amount of people you see post-Grand Final, everyone’s spoken about it for along time afterwards.”

As for captainBrooks, feelings of beingphysically and mentally drained were soon forgotten when he walked onto the premiership dais.

“Unbelievable, afeeling you’ve never felt before. It was alittle bit of weightoff the shoulders, sitting next to my brother in the rooms pure content,” he said.

“Theway we didit, the waythe game played out, it was taxing on everyone, because it was 10 minutes each side, so it was effectively an extra quarter, everyone was out on their feet, we were all exhausted, but when the final sirenwent it was relief and shortly after, the excitement was just unbelievable.”

Celebrations took place in and around Glengarry, withthe congregation toasting success well into the next week.

For the record, the final scoreboard read Glengarry 16.15 (111) to Heyfield 15.15 (105).

Best players for the premiers were King, Potter, Chris Panayiotou, Dean Pearce, Luke Forbes (in

just his seventh game for the year) and Ben Truin.

Truin remains the only survivor 10 years on.

CRASH LANDING

HOW the mighty have fallen.

What followed the euphoria surrounding Glengarry proved just how fragile football can be.

The Magpies’ triumph became adistant memory less than 24 months later when they claimed the wooden spoon in 2015 -going through the season without even winning game.

How muchthe premiership (and the events that led to it) took out of the Magpies might be summed up by thisfact -Glengarry hasn'twon apremiership since 2013, or even played finals for that matter.

The premiership defence ended with barely a whimper; the Magpies ran eighth in 2014 with a6-12record.

While areserves flag came in 2017 following an incredible four-week finalsrun (with May as captain), the Magpies endured some tough years.

As is often the case when ateamreaches the top, personnel changes and players coming and going can mean it is difficult to back-up.

Potter, who coached for one more season before moving to Mornington, believed this is what happened to Glengarry.

"We had players go to Gippsland League, had a couple go interstate and then we had afew injuries, we lost all three ruckmen, we just seemed to be unlucky," he said.

"Maybe Ishould have pushed harder with more recruits, but Ithought we were alright but we did get alot of injuries, Ishould have maybe covered the players that did leave.

"Unfortunately Idid feel bad after Ileft, we did have some struggle years. Robbie Cahill who was

the best and fairest and legend of the club took over coaching, it was left in abit of ahardspot."

As for Brooks, who was26atthe timeand played all his football at the Magpies, admitted to feeling as though there was nothing more to achieve.

"Once we won that flag, Ithought 'how can we get anybetter?'," he said.

Brooks continued to play on-and-off after 2013, with stintsatMorwell East and Traralgon and back to Glengarry.

Meanwhile, theirGrand Final opponents went down astruggling path of theirown -albeitin entirely different circumstances.

Heyfieldmadethe GrandFinalagain in 2014 -and lost their only game for the season when it mattered most.

The Kangaroos werethereagainthe next two years, only to fall short on both occasions, making it four consecutiveGrand Final defeatssince lifting the cup in 2012.

The unfortunate run of outs led some to dub it 'The Birss Curse', in reference to Heyfield coach at the time, Damien Birss. (Who in fairness had coached the2012 triumph).

Reflecting on 10 years since that momentous day, Potter said the memories lived on vividly.

"To do it from 1-5, everyone had written us off, needing to win in extra time was very unique, it was so special," he said.

"These (reunions) are what makes footy so special, you work so hard, you win the premiership, afew hours after that siren is the best, youhangout together, it's an amazing feeling,you can't explain it

"Tohave this 10-year reunion brings it all back to celebrate how hard you worked and how great the year was."

Action from the2013North Gippsland Football-Netball League Grand Final between Heyfield and Glengarry. Photo: File

Glengarry Football-Netball Club’s crew of 2013 came together recently to celebrate10years since their momentousNorth Gippsland premiership.

Photo: Liam Durkin

Parrots swarm Magpies in all grades

Zoe Askew

LEONGATHA stampedtheir dominance on the Gippsland League, Warragul causedanupset while Maffra failed to put an end to their losing streak. The battle of the birds was disappointing across the cage for Sale, withthe Magpiesgoing down to the Parrots in AGrade,BGrade andCGrade netballaswell as Senior,Reserves and Thirds football.

The more than hour-long journey home gave Sale plenty of time to unpack the club-wide defeat at the weekend before hosting Moe in Round 7.

Leongatha netted 18 goals in the first quarter, while it wasn't until the second quarter that Sale managed to put apoint on the scoreboard.

By the end of the second quarter,the Parrots had flown away, with the game leading the Magpies 31 to 10.

Sale managed another 10 goals in the third quarter, but their efforts were less than effective, with Leongatha's 18 goals nearly doubling that of

Zoe’s netball Scoreboard

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

AGRADE - Moe64dBairnsdale 36, Drouin48d

Traralgon 44, Morwell 29 drew Warragul 29, Wonthaggi

45 dMaffra 39, Leongatha 61 dSale 28.

BGRADE - Traralgon 40 dDrouin38, Morwell 53 d

Warragul 45, Maffra 53 dWonthaggi 45, Leongatha

67 dSale 36, Bairnsdale bye, Moe bye.

CGRADE - Drouin 38 dTraralgon30, Morwell 35 d

Warragul24, Maffra 36 dWonthaggi 31,Bairnsdale

34 dMoe 30, Leongatha 27 dSale 11

17 AND UNDER - Traralgon 45 dDrouin24, Morwell 48 dWarragul 24, Maffra 36 dWonthaggi

31,Bairnsdale 44 d11, Leongatha 25 dSale 23.

15 AND UNDER - Traralgon 75 dDrouin5,Warragul

25 dMorwell 20,Maffra 51 dWonthaggi 32, Bairnsdale

31 dMoe 20, Sale 46 dLeongatha 27

13 AND UNDER - Traralgon57dDrouin 11,Warragul

21 dMorwell 12,Maffra 36 dWonthaggi 7, Moe27d

Bairnsdale 21,Sale 40 dLeongatha 27

NORTH GIPPSLAND FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

AGRADE - TTU62dRosedale 46, Gormandale 35

dYarram 28, Woodside 62 dCowwarr 37,Churchill

51 dGlengarry44, Heyfield 58 dYYN 22, Sale City bye.

BGRADE - Rosedale 49 dTTU 40, Gormandale 64

dYarram 48, Woodside 67 dCowwarr 39, Glengarry

49 dChurchill 39, YYN 54 dHeyfield 50, Sale City bye.

CGRADE - Rosedale 41 dTTU 40, Gormandale 48

dYarram 18,Woodside47dCowwarr 16,Churchill

27 dGlengarry 26, YYN49d Heyfield 21,Sale City bye.

DGRADE - TTU41dRosedale28, Gormandale 54

dYarram 9, Woodside 39 dCowwarr 20, Churchill 36

dGlengarry 29, YYN 36 dHeyfield 17,Sale City bye.

17 AND UNDER - Rosedale 27 dTTU 21,Gormandale

36 dYarram 18,Woodside48d Cowwarr 5, Glengarry

51 dChurchill 9, Heyfield 31 dYYN 14,Sale City bye.

15 AND UNDER - TTU41d Rosedale 19,Gormandale

16 dYarram 9, Woodside 52 dCowwarr 4, Glengarry

47 dChurchill 9, Heyfield 57 dYYN 8, Sale City bye.

EAST GIPPSLAND FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

AGRADE - Orbost SnowyRovers53d Lindenow 28, Lakes Entrance 46 dLucknow 45

BGRADE - Lindenow 35 dOrbost SnowyRovers25, Lucknow 33 dLakes Entrance 26.

CGRADE- OrbostSnowyRovers42d Lindenow 38, Lucknow 52 dLakes Entrance 14

DGRADE- Lindenow 31 dOrbost SnowyRovers7

Lucknow 10 dLakes Entrance 0.

17 AND UNDER - Lindenow26d Orbost Snowy Rovers14, Lucknow 39 dLakes Entrance 22.

15 ANDUNDER- Lindenow 36 dOrbost Snowy

Rovers20, Lakes Entrance 30 dLucknow 17

what their opponents could manage for the game.

Twelve goals to Leongatha in the final quarter sealed the Parrots' 61 to 28 win over the Magpies, putting them at the top of the ladder with 16 points.

Hannah Flanders, Laura Higgins and Lara Stefani were best on for Leongatha.

RachelRonaldson, Tori Dessent and Emma Allman were Sale's best.

Ninth-placed Warragul put an end to their losing streak in ashock 29 to 29 draw against reigning league champions Morwell.

Thedraw, what wasexpected to be asurewin for Morwell, is arguably the biggest 2023 season upset yet and has cost the Tigers the number-one spot on the ladder. If one thing is certain, Morwell will never underestimate Warragul again.

Selene Chadrawy, Renee Cookand Jaime Rollinson were best on for Warragul.

Tanya Budge, Courtney Garth and Anna Solomon were best on for Morwell.

Maffra suffers their fourth consecutive defeat, falling 45-39 to visiting opponents Wonthaggi.

Chelsea Bowman, Bella Anderson and Olivia Gilmour were best on for Wonthaggi.

Chelsea Allman, Chloe Felsbourgand Brodie Brunt were Maffra's best.

If Maffra wants to avoid aseason like Bairnsdale hadin2022, they better fix whatever isn't working and quick.

Moe defeated Bairnsdale 64 to 36, while Drouin was too good for Traralgon, beating the Maroons 48 to 44.

East Gippsland's mildly confusing split round saw just two games played at the weekend.

Lindenow hosted Orbost Snowy Rovers, while Lucknow hosted Lakes Entrance.

Orbost retired clear victors after four quarters defeating Lindenow 53 to 28.

It was amuch tighter game in Lucknow, with LakesEntrance snatching aone-point win over their hosts, 46-45.

Tarwin dominated Foster in the Mid Gippsland FootballNetball League, defeatingtheir opponents by nearly 40 points, 68 to 30.

Toora also stole abig win at the weekend,

defeating Hill End by ahuge margin, 55 to 23.

The biggest victory came from Mirboo North, the Tigers defeating Stony Creek 66 to 25, a41-point margin.

Woodside continues proving they're the team to beat in theNorth Gippsland FootballNetball League, with the Wildcats claimingtheir fourth consecutive win over Cowwarr at the weekend62 to 37.

TTU upped their antie, defeating 2022 grand finalists Rosedale 62 to 46.

Glengarry couldn't stop astrong Churchill at the weekend, with the Magpies going down to the Cougars 51 to 44.

YYN received a36-point flogging from Heyfield; the Kangaroos' 58 points were no match to The Jets' 22.

Aftergoingdown to Gormandale 35 to 28, Yarram is at risk of ending up at the bottom of the ladder unless they can steal awin in Round 5.

Having finished the 2022 season at the bottom of the ladder, Gormandale would be more than happy for Yarram to take the spot.

DukeofEdinburgh bowls Shield

THE annual Victorian RSL Duke of Edinburgh Shield competition was held over the weekend of April 15 and 16, running concurrently across 15 venues statewide.

Lakeside Club in Sale was one such venue, hostingsix teams from the Gippsland regionBairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, Rosedale, Moe/

Trafalgar,Newborough and Sale -with16players per team.

While gameswent ahead uninterrupted on Saturday, overnight rain and wet greens saw play abandoned on Sunday.

Despite the event having only completed three of its scheduled five rounds,awinner was still

crowned on Sunday, with Newborough deemed the most successful club.

The Sale RSL lawn bowls team was formed in 2001, and consists of veterans from across Wellington Shire.

The club fielded two teams in this year's shield, withthe second competinginMulwalaonthe Victoria/New South Wales border.

Maffra took on Wonthaggi in Round 4ofthe GippslandLeague.

Photo: Sam Crothers

Wildcats spoil the Saints record-breaking party

NORTH GIPPSLAND

TomHayes

ROUND 4inthe North Gippsland FootballNetball League was muchlikeRound 3, with the projected top five teams recording big victories.

The ladder is taking shape now with aclear top six, including two sides that are yet to be defeated.

TRARALGON Tyers United leapt to the top of the ladderafter their182-pointflogging of Rosedale at home.

The Bombers were able to keep Rosedale goalless in two quarters (first and last), while averagingeightgoalsper term themselves in the 32.14 (206) to 3.6 (24) rout.

Caleb Michie starred with best on ground honours after booting10goals. Another nine players found the big sticks; including Beau White, who nailed six himself.

TTU found themselves in apositive position at quarter time with a40-0lead, before they doubleditto80points at the main change.

A10-goal third term put the game to bed, and with a130-point lead at three-quartertime, the Bombers were able to add another eight goalsinthe last term to put the nail in thecoffin.

In TTU’s best was Michie, Liam Willaton, KadeDuncan, Michael Jacobsen,Whiteand Jye Neilson.

Rosedale’sbestsix consisted of Declan Barnett, Jay Diamond, Hayden Bell, James Moulton, Connor Macleod and Will Murray.

As mentioned, TTU moves to the top of the ladder with a4-0 record, now with agreater percentage to Churchill.

AS you might be able to tell, the Cougars also maintained their perfect record, when they dealt with Glengarry at Gaskin Park.

The Magpies didn’t make it easy for the Cougars,stayingintouch so Churchill couldn’t have abreak

But in the final quarter and ahalf, Churchill began to stretch the gap to amore comfortable setting.

Atight opening quarter kept Glengarry just 11 points away, before alateflurry for Churchill in the second term blew the lead out to 22 points at halftime.

The margin remained at 22 points up until three-quarter-time, before Churchill hit the gas and extended out to a47-point gap, 17.13 (115) to 10.8 (68).

Ben Kearns kicked four majors, while Chris Wangman, who kicked 20 goals in the last

two weeks,was kept goalless for the Cougars.

Veteran Brendan Holt was best on ground, kickingthreegoals,alongsideTyson Leys and Chris Williams.

In the best for Churchill was Holt, Ben Skinner, Joel Mason, Leys, Williams and defender Patrick Kearns.

Spencer Poulton kicked four goals for the visitors, and waswithin the best, along with AndrewMay,Seth Healy, Jack Burgess, Lachlan Patterson and Alex Birmingham.

YALLOURN Yallourn North improved their record to 2-2, after defeating Heyfield by 43 points at George Bates Reserve.

For the visitors, they had asenior debutant in Ed Phelan-Penson.

It was agoal-fest early, with nine goals between the two sides in the openingterm, as YYN held a16-point lead at the first break.

The Jets had multiple chances to extend the leadinthe second term, but failed to convert, kicking 1.6 (12) to 2.0 (12), with the lead staying the same at the main break.

A6.3 (39) to 2.3 (15) third term gave YYN a40-point buffer into the finalchange, which from there on in was relatively even in an openscoringfinalterm with five goals scored each, the Jets coming home as 43-point winners,18.15 (123) to 12.8 (80).

Josh Keyhoe and Dean Macdonald kicked four goals each for the home side, while Keenan Hughes and Dylan Keyhoe kicked three each.

As for the visitors, Mitchell Bennett scored four goals, and was the only multiple goal scorer for the Kangaroos.

In the Jets’ best were Rohan Reid, Mitchell Luck, Hughes, Josh Keyhoe,Dylan Bath and Anthony Young.

And as for Heyfield, Bailey Escreet, Robert McMillan, AsherEastham, TysonBirss, Kail Hole and Xander Brooks stood out.

The Jets jumped to sixth on the ladder, just one win from the top four,putting breathing space between themselves and Heyfield in seventh.

ACLOSE start to the Cowwarrversus Woodside game was short lived,whenthe Wildcats went hell to leather in the second term.

After holding asix-pointlead at quarter time,Woodside then kicked 8.8 (56) to 0.1 (1) in the second term to go up by 10 goals at the half.

It didn’tstopthere, as they kept the Saints goalless for asecond consecutive term,

extending the margin out to 88 points.

Acalmer final term saw the margin drift overthreefigures, with Woodside walking away 106-point winners, 20.15 (135) to 4.5 (29).

Daniel Farmer and Michael O’Sullivan kicked five goals each for Woodside.

O’Sullivan made the best alongside Joshua Morgan, Josh Scott, Ethan Stephens, Joh Fythe and Thomas Mann.

In Cowwarr’s best was young Rhys Luxford, Jake Brown, Kurt Henderson, Jordan Anderson, Nick Wozniak and Kyle Stamers. Simultaneously, Woodside spoilt Cowwarr’s party, as they celebrated Shane Morgan for surpassing the club’s games record.

Morgan took to the field for the 312th time, surpassing the record of Andrew ‘Angry’ Hollands.

At halftime of the reserves game, both reserves and senior sides were in the rooms to witness Shane Galea and Steve Cooper present Morgan with his number 12 jumper.

“It’s been an awesome ride, I’m honoured to break the record,” Morgan said.

“Thanks to Gals (Galea), Steve (Cooper) and everyone from the club for everything they have done for me over the journey.

“I lookforward to playing on, whether that be at 2pm or 12 o’clock!”

YARRAM bounced back from their Round 3 defeat to TTU, defeating the spirited Tigers at Gormandale Recreation Reserve.

Yarram got the jump in the first term, kicking 6.7 (43) to 1.1 (7), and it continued to grow from there.

Yarram then led by 78 at halftime, before aone-sided third term blew the lead out to 130 points.

The Demons made sure of their return to the winner’s list by sealing a164-point win, 26.24 (180) to 2.4 (16), jumping into fifth position.

Dylan Garnham kicked six goals for the Demons and was best on ground. Boadie Mottonjoined him in the best with five goals, whileTylerChisholm,MattClavarino,Kelly Griffiths and Tanner Chisholm were also best.

Jye Foulkes and ChrisPotalej kicked Gormandale’s majors, while Tristan Salerno, Caleb Isherwood, KodieOwen,Isaac Copland, William Flanagan and Jet Krimhand were in their best.

SALE CITY had the bye.

Woodside’s Hamish McLeod carriesthe ball downfield duringthe Wildcats winoverCowwarr

Photo: Contributed

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

SENIORS

MOE 1.57.9 12.11 14.16 (100)

BAIRNSDALE 2.42.6 3.7 7.8 (50)

GOALS: Moe: HPepper 3J Wood 2HSim GCocksedge JBlaser BSmith NProwseLMulqueen

BDaniher LForatoT Long.Bairnsdale: LAustin 2JGooch 2L Byrne-Jones THudson N

Dennison. BEST: Moe: TPratt JBlaser DKeiltyBSmith BMorrowSvan Dyk. Bairnsdale: EEast WMitchell RTatnell KVickeryT ClayLMckenna

GOALS: Traralgon: BEddy 6SHallyburton4 JHamilton2 BKimberley BSchilling THamilton

KRuyters TSchneider HNeocleous MJacobsen. Drouin: CKingi 3W Papley 2HBirks 2KQuirk

2SAmoroso 2C Tyler SHarvey. BEST: Traralgon: TSchneider THamiltonT Hourigan BEddy S

HallyburtonCAmbler.Drouin:

RESERVES

KChapman WClaridge. Bairnsdale:OClarke 3PDerbyshire. BEST: Moe: JMorrow

JMakepeaceA Wilson BMaslen WClaridgeLRees.Bairnsdale: ANelsonJDoreZSmith O

Clarke ETaylor

TRARALGON 3.5 9.7 14.9 19.12 (126)

DROUIN 0.2 2.3 4.4 4.4 (28)

GOALS: Traralgon: JVan Iwaarden 4HBritten 4L McDonald 3HHector2BLocandroB

Cheetham LHahnG Wood TMcMahon FKennedy.Drouin: NJarred DClebney JKleeven R

Salter BEST: Traralgon: GWood JVan Iwaarden LFarley TMcMahon LMcDonald HBritten.

Drouin: RSalter JKleeven DClebney CLovett SClebney HMcConnell

LEONGATHA 7.0 12.3 15.7 20.10 (130)

SALE0.0

GOALS: Leongatha: FMateria 4DHume 3L Wright 2J Lamers 2RKemp 2JSchelling T

RKellyO Kerr NFixterT Sorrell SForrester.Sale: TWrigglesworth JSandeman. BEST:

DHumeTHallMBorschman SForrester FMateria JLamers.Sale:TWrigglesworth

Dyer ZRussell JMcGuiness HTollner

Maffra: JOldham

Pies, Eagles smashed

Liam Durkin

SALE andMaffra each had days to forget in Round 4ofthe Gippsland League.

The Magpies and Eagles were both given footballing lessons from opponents in the south, as Leongatha and Wonthaggi ran rings around them.

LEONGATHA made an absolute mockery of the Grand Final rematch against Sale, defeating the Magpies by 132 points.

Yes, 132 points. The final score was 27.13 (175) to 6.7 (43).

Leongatha showedoff in front of their home crowd, saving the best for last with 10 goals in the final term.

By the end of the game, they had set three new league records.

TheParrotsfinalscore beat their previous best against Sale, which had stood since 1979.

The winning margin also betteredthe 121-point flogging handed to the Magpies in 2016,and youngster Jenson Garnham, who finished with 11 goals, broke the previous best of nine set by Glen Thorson in 1988. Absolute carnage.

Ahigh-scoringopeningterm saw eight goals kicked between the two teams. As the gameworeonhowever,onlyone team ended up doing the scoring.

It is not every day you kick eight goals and have to play second fiddle,but that is exactly what happened to Parrot forward Jack Ginnane.

If they win every game from now until the end of the home and away season, they will breakthe league record of 45 held by Maffra between2003 and 2005.

Granted it is very difficult to compare eras, but bearing in mind Maffra’s run coincided with atimewhenthere was only seven teams in the competition, it couldmean Leongatha are now justifiably in the conversation of greatest-ever team.

ThatSalemaking the grannyprediction isn’t looking too good at the moment.

WONTHAGGI got back on the winners list.

The Powerput an indifferent fortnight behind them, defeating Maffra in comprehensive fashion 15.18 (108) to 4.4 (28).

Making the trip overthe hill,Wonthaggi enteredthe match with consecutivelosses under their belt, but left with victory and a stabilising 2-2 record.

The visitors did not let their opponents in at any stage, keeping them to just one goal until three quarter time.

Coach Jarryd Blair was best for the winners,and received good support from ShannonBray, Tom Davey, Jakeb Thomas, Troy Harley and Tim Knowles.

In agame thatnever reached any great heights, best for Maffra was Danny Butcher, Alex Carr, Zach Felsbourg, Brayden Monk, Daniel Bedggood and James Read.

ELSEWHERE, Morwell’s season is now hanging by athread.

MOE doubled their opponents score.

The Lions returned to TedSummerton Reservefor the first time in three weeks, and defeated Bairnsdale 14.16 (100) to 7.8 (50).

Moe overcameanindifferent start, and had the game pretty well under control by halftime.

The home side added six goals to two behinds in the second term, to lead by 33 points at the main break.

Afurtherfive goals to oneinthe third blew the margin out to 58 points at three quarter time.

Frustrationwas evidentfor Bairnsdale, especially when playing-coach Logan Austin gave away afree kick for umpire dissent after asking “how is thatnot chopping the arms?” following akick-inthatled to aMoe goal to veteran Tom Long.

Longended up being one of 11 goalkickers for the Lions, which included James Blaser, who heads intothis week’sgameagainst Sale sitting on 199 senior goals.

Blaser was among the bestplayers, as was new recruit TylerPratt, Brock Smith, Ben Morrow, Scott van Dyk, and coach Declan Keilty.

Bairnsdale was given an old-fashioned rev up at three quarter time, and told to “show abit of spirit” in the last.

Warragul: HJinks 5K Baker 2RSenini2 BRainfordLFinnegan APhillipsCMacLean.

RO’Neill CLappin TJiath GJiath CSeymour BEST: Warragul: HJinks LFrenchL

APhillips KBaker LGarner.Morwell:CMillar CSeymour LEffenbergT Spagnolo T

GOALS: Traralgon: TTangi6CScandrett 4R Guiney 2ERoscoe 2F Watts MMaaka WBrent

Drouin: CStone PSaddington AWanigavitharana BWalsh BEST: Traralgon: OHowe WBrent

ABlackfordT TangiC Scandrett CBooth. Drouin: ZMcmillan WBethune AWanigavitharana KGregg CStone BAtkins

SALE1.0

GOALS: Leongatha: ZLamers 3J Garnham 3T McRae2BFortJ Callahan RReardon CQuaife

MDonohue HLivingstone.Sale: TWrigglesworth 2Z Waixel HTollnerDCumming CWilson

KSchoenmaekers KCutler CJohnson MMalone BEST: Leongatha: MDonohue BGrabham

AndrewsJCallahan LGill WBrown CQuaife. Sale: KCutler HTollner BPearce MMalone

Havingkicked11the previous week, Ginnane has certainly come back with abang following his much publicised eight-week suspension.

Leongatha added 11 goals to two either side of halftime, as players such as Aaron Heppell, Cade Maskell, Luke Bowman and Tom Marriott ran riot.

Shannen Lange,JackMcLaren, Adam Wallace, Liam Place, Hudson Holmes and Lachie Ronchibattledmanfully for the visitors.

While Sale only had 11 of theirGrand Final playersavailable,therecan be no sugar coating aloss of this proportion.

The manner in which Leongatha destroyed them sent aserious statement to the rest of the competition, and put everyone on notice in the process.

By all reports, the Parrots played at their absolute peak, with elite pressure forcing repeat turnovers and high foot skills allowing them to cut their way through Sale’s zone.

Some present at Leongatha Recreation Reserve quipped it was the best football they have seen from acountry team.

Possibly the only sad note for the green and gold has been the suddenretirement of Josh Hopkins. The small forward played the first three games of the season before deciding to hang up the boots.

Leongatha’s winning streak now sits at 32.

Morwell lostwhatcould be viewed as a virtual elimination final to Warragul, going down 13.3 (81) to 10.11 (71).

The Tigers were slow out of the blocks at home, and trailed 4.1 (25) 0.4 (4) at quarter time. Warragul came into the match off the back of consecutive 90-point losses, but with theirtails up early, it provided an instant confidence booster.

The Tigers hit back in the second term, adding five goals of their own to lead by seven points at the main break.

The Gulls however proved what Morwell coulddo, they could as well, kicking five goals in the third to take a10-point lead with 20 minutes to play.

Both teams kicked three goals in the final term, meaningthe fulltime margin remained the same as the one at the previous break.

Aidan Quigley was industrious for the Tigers,along with MaxLinton, Cody Macdonald, Boyd Bailey, Brandon Bailey (in his first game for the season on return from injury) and Cohen Campbell.

NickMulqueen kickedthree goals for Warragulinabest afield display. Others to play well were James Davidson, Patrick Mulqueen, LiamSumner,Sean Masterson and Patrick Ireland.

The result leaves Morwell at 1-3 and seventh on the ladder -aless than desirable position for ateam looking to replicate its finals qualification from last season.

The Redlegs managed to do this to an extent,outscoring Moe four goals to two, however by about halfway through the last quarter, the intensity had dropped right off and both sides looked content to just run the game out.

Ethan East was best on ground for the visitors, and received goodsupportfrom Will Mitchell, Ricky Tatnell, Kieran Vickery, Tate Clay and Link McKenna.

TRARALGON won on the road.

The Maroonsmadethe trip to Drouin, and came away with a19.18 (132)to13.10 (88) victory after leading at every change. Granted it is Autumn, thematch wasvery high-scoring for agame at Drouin, aground whichvisiting teams have often found it tough to win at.

Speaking of tough, the Hawksagain showed why they will be atough team to take points off in season 2023.

Although Drouin is still yet to win agame, they have kicked 13, 14 and 14 goalsineach of their last threematches.

This makes the Hawks adangerous propositionfor teams to come, especiallyif they aren’t given enoughrespect.

Midfielder Tom Schneider was best on for the victors, followed by youngster Tom Hamilton back from board-holding duty. Tye Hourigan continued his strong form, as did Brett Eddy who kicked six goals. Others to play well for Traralgonwere Sam Hallyburton and Connor Ambler.

Tom Evans, Clayton Kingi, Xavier Kinder, Harry Wans, Seb Amoroso and Will Papley did agood job for Drouin.

36 –Times-Spectator,Tuesday, 2May,2023

Sale captain Jack Leslie takes a strong mark, in what was a tough day for the Magpies in the Grand Final rematch against Leongatha

Photo: Lotje McDonald

Split round sees two games played, predictions released

Paul Nichols

THE whistles were almost silenced around East Gippsland football ovals last weekend, with only the twogames finishing offthe EGFNL split round Orbost easily accounted for Lindenow, the final scores being 17.9 (111) to 7.7 (49).

Bluesbrothers Hamish and Curtley Nettleton accounted for 16 of Orbost’s 17 goals, kicking 10 and six respectively, while Jarrah Nettleton was named in the best.

Starting Round 4, Lucknow easily accounted for Lakes Entrance, kicking eight goals to one in the third quarter to give them the win.

Finishing the game strong, Lucknow extended the lead to 122 points at the final siren, 22.22 (154) to 5.2 (32).

After three completed rounds, some predictions can start to be drawn on what may happen at the end of the year.

The goal kicking leader board so far is wide open, with five players in double figures and some big scores being posted.

While Stratford’s Dylan O’Shannasy currently leadswith 14, (threeclearofsecond), the majority of his goalshave come in gameswhere Stratfordhas won by 82 and 147 points respectively. Although he is making the most of his opportunities, how he handles thepressure in harder games is the only question at this stage.

Caleb Calwun seems to have slotted in well at Boisdale-Briagolong in his first senior season of football in theEGFNL. Calwyn has managed to rackup11goals so farthis season, kickingfive

in aloss against Wy Yung and four in the loss against Lucknow.

Prediction: Caleb Calwyn to win the EGFNL goal kicking.

THE makeup of the top four this year might need to wait until the final round before it is known, with Wy Yung to Lucknow, and Boisdale Briagolong against Stratford, all genuine top four contenders this season

Reigning premier Stratford has only really had one test so far this season, being Round 1against Boisdale Briagolong, but with the likesofReg Tait, Haydn Erfuth and Gavin Bickery likely to come back this season, they are still agenuine contender.

Boisdale-Briagolong could be consideredunlucky to be outside the top four at the moment, as their two losses have been by an average of two goals. With astrong list and alot of depth, they’lllearn fromtheir losses and look to turnthoseclose games into close wins.

Prediction: Topfour (in order) Wy Yung, Boisdale Briagolong, Lucknow, Stratford.

ORBOST Snowy Rovers will be the most improved teamthisyear, predicted to be just outside the top four, finishing fifth. An improvement on last year’s seventh finish where they won only four games. The Blues willcontinue from astrongfinish to season 2022 and will challenge the top sides this year

At the end of Round 3, 11 players have been named in each of their respective clubs best for each game that’s been played. With anumberofplayer movements, and new players coming intothe competition, it’s no surprise

that country football league best and fairests are hard to predict.

Given that the best player generally comes froma side that playsfinals, Lucknow trioJoel Mcnamara, Glen Perkinsand Jamie Seymour are in with achance.

Stratford’s latest recruit, midfielderLachlan Channing, will be up there as well.

Channing has kicked 10 goals so far this season and is currently equal-third in the league goal kicking.

Coming from Gippsland League club Maffra, Channinghas stood out on the ground in his three games, drawing the eye of opposition supporters in Stratford’s Round 1loss to Boisdale Briagolong.

Tom Betts is looking to have abreakout season for Wy Yung.

Betts, having played ahandful of games for Gippsland League club Bairnsdale in 2021, is enjoying his secondfull season backplaying senior football at the Tigers.

Prediction: Lachlan Channing to win the EGFNL league best and fairest. Tom Betts runner-up.

LAST, but by no means least, this year’s premier. There’s astand out already, and they’ll be hard to beat as they were last year.

Wy Yung have started this year in fine form, with anew coach, and some strong results so far, they’ll be seekingretribution for the runner-up finish last year, after being easily the best side in the home and away season.

Prediction: Wy Yung will be premiersfor 2023.

FOOTBALL NETBALLEASTGIPPSLAND

Opening round win for Briag

Paul Nichols

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG opened their

Female Football Gippsland 2023 season in emphatic fashion, with acomprehensive victory over the Moe Newborough Allies.

Starting the game with only 16 players on the parkafter anumber of late outs,the Bombers could have been excused for giving up an early lead, however adetermined and gritty effort saw them go into the firstbreak with the scores locked at two goals apiece.

From there, the Bombers took control of the match, keeping the Allies scoreless as they piled on five goals in the second quarter.

Final scores were Boisdale-Briagolong 9.1 (55) to Moe Newborough 2.1 (13).

Emily Porter led the way for the Bombers, kicking four goals.

Best for Boisdale-Briagongwas Porter, Madi Shingles,Maddy Dalton, Amanda Hancock, Meg Graham and Laura Jonston.

After ayear’s break from competition, the Bombers have returned exactly how they would have liked,withastrongwin against last year’s premier.

Withsomekey insexpected in the next few weeks, BoisdaleBriagolong willlook to continue fromthiswin and shakeupthe competition.

In the other game for the round, Drouin were easily beaten by Lindenow South 9.6 (60) to 1.1(7)

Lindenow: RDennison 4RMaisey 3KCook 2JMayesMBaylisJ Hood.Orbost Snowy Rovers:

Welsh TGriebenowMFenner HKennyW HerbertDKane BEST: Lindenow:RMaisey J

LKennedy JMayesR Harrison RDennison. OrbostSnowyRovers: CRobertson LOsborn JEaton

JULIAN

ROUND 7

Friday, April 28

St Kildavs. Port Adelaide (MRVL) (N)

Saturday,April 29

Brisbane Lions vs.Fremantle(G)

SydneySwans vs GWSGIANTS (SCG)

Western Bulldogs vs.Hawthorn (MRVL) (T)

Melbourne vs.North Melbourne (MCG) (N)

West CoastEaglesvs. Carlton (OS) (N)

Sunday, April 30

Essendon vs GeelongCats (MCG)

Richmondvs. Gold CoastSUNS (MRVL)

Adelaide Crows vs Collingwood (AO) (T)

Living legend

Shane Morgan broke the gamesrecordfor Cowwarr Football-Netball ClubonSaturday, running outfor game312.

Sale United FC provide mixed bag

SALEUnited Football Clubseniormen suffered alandslide losstoMoe United on Saturday night.

The Red Devils netted nine goals to one under thelights at OlympicPark in Round 6action in the Latrobe Valley Soccer League.

It wasn’t all bad news for Sale.

The senior women’s side remains undefeated, following apercentage boosting 13-1 win over Moe, further strengtheningthe Swanettes’ title charge. Butfor themen,Round 6issurely one Sale will be wanting to forget.

The Red Devils were ahead early doors, putting away their first goal after just three minutes.

The home team dominated possession, their physicality and fast pacethrowing Sale United, who were unable to exploit their counterattack opportunities.

Moe did well at cutting out the Swans leading goal scorers, Isaak Jondahl and Charlie Cockell, and capitalised on their domination of possession, netting fivegoals before the break, sending Sale to the rooms with nothing more than ayellow card.

It wasn’t just the wintery weather and five-nil score warranting an icy Sale Unitedasthey retired to the rooms at halftime, malfeasance from alinesman, who was recently barred from refereeing LVSL senior games, and was uninhibited in slandering the travelling team’s players while vocally coaching the home side at his post, added to the frustration.

Moe extended their lead to six within 10 minutes of returningtothe pitch, netting their seventh goal at the hour mark, eighth in the 71st minute, and scoring their ninth and final goal in the 81st minute.

Cooper Coleman grabbed aconsolation goal for Sale in the 83rd minute.

Whileasolemn Saleheaded home, Moecelebrated abig win, with agoal from Campbell Dastey, four to Connor O’Hanlon and Riley Winlelman falling one short of adouble hat-trick.

At the very least, Sale United senior men could rest easy knowing they weren’t the only Sale team returninghome with their tails betweentheir legs on Saturday night, following Sale Football-Netball Club’s 132-point senior footballloss to Leongatha.

Sale United senior women proved that they are deserving of the top-ladder position, with five goals

fromHollie Ryan, fourfrom Dani Wilson,three from Anouk Meereboer and agoal from Madelaine Breakspear sealing the Swanettes’ 13-1 win.

Whileittook Sale sometimetoget out of first gear, the current ladder leaders killed the game by the half-hour mark, with Wilson scoring the opening goal in the 11th minute, followed by a second in the 15th.

Ryan added athird goal for Sale in the 20th minute, Wilson afourth in the 23rd minute, with Ryan stretching the Swanettes lead to 5-0 in the 29th minute.

Ryan extendedSale’slead to 6-0 in the 38th minute, bagging ahat-trick in the process.

Playing coach Breakspear scored ascreamer fromoutside18-yards in the 41st minute, with Ryan scoring her fourthgoal before the break, taking the Swanettes to an 8-0 lead heading into the second half.

Ryan scored her fifth goal to open the secondhalf.

Moe took advantage of acomplacent Sale, with Summer Cooperscoring aconsolidation goal in the 55th minute.

Sale immediately replied, with SUFC senior men’s coachMeereboer scoringtwo goals in two

minutes just before the hour mark.

Meereboercompleted her hat-trick in the 80th minute,while Wilson sealed the Swanettes’ 13-1 win, scoring her fourth goal in the 85th minute.

While the young Moe team fought hard, they were unable to stop Sale’sonslaught of goals,leaving Meereboertiedfor top goal scorer with Falcons 2000’s Savannah Lapenta, and Wilson third by the end of Round 6.

Remaining undefeated with five wins from five games, conceding just two goals for agoal difference of 46, Sale United senior women retain their top ladder positioninfront of Fortuna,second, and Falcons third.

Moe defeated Sale 5-0 in the reserves.

Josh White put agoal on the scoreboard for Sale United Green in second division, but it wasn’t enough,with Moedefeating the visitors 4-1 at the end of 90 minutes.

Sale United White claimed their first win of the season in second division on Sunday, defeating Churchill United 13-0 at home.

SUFC senior women and second division teams get arest this weekend, while the senior men and reserves take on Olympians at home.

Zoe Askew