Gippsland Times Tuesday April 23 2024

Lightning quick

EA-18G Growlers, capable of flying at morethan1900km/h, landed at RAAF Base East Sale last week. Pilot Officer Cooper McClymont and Flight Lieutenant Max Harlen(picturedright) flew in from Western Australia, on whatwas the last leg of their journeycommemorating significant Air Forcemilestones.

ONE hundred years since two ambitious aviators circumnavigatedAustralia's coastline, and 50 years since No 6Squadron based at RAAF Base Amberley achieved the same feat in an F-111 aircraft,aflight commemorating both milestones landedatRAAFBaseEastSale last Thursday.

This time, aviators piloted two Royal Australian Airforce EA-18G Growlers –an aircraft used in air combat that can reach a top speed of 1960 km/h.

Aspecialised electronic warfare variant of theF/A-18F Super Hornet, Growler aircraft are designed to provide tactical jamming and electronic protection in air combat.

As the Growler approached, Flight Lieutenant Joe Byrne explained the significance of the landing,which was atraining procedure for the lucky student flying shotgun in the Growler's back seat.

"It's got abit of history to it," he said.

"A long time ago, theydiscovered you're quite vulnerable on approach and landing as well as take-off, so trying to get on the ground quickly is important."

Flying low and fast,the pilot skilfully manoeuvred the aircraft in an 'initial and pitch' sequence, where they flylow before pitching over the end of the runway, drop down, and circle back aroundfor landing, whereupon theaircraft taxied towards its stationary twin-Growler to be refuelled.

Like ascene from Top Gun,Flight Lieutenant Max Harlen of Amberley's No 6Squadron and Pilot Officer Cooper McClymont disembarked the Growler.

Grinning as they crossed the tarmac with duffle bagsinhand, the aviators had made their laststoponaseven-day tourthrough RAAF bases Amberley,Townsville, Darwin, Pearce and East Sale.

Flight Lieutenant Harlen, whopiloted the Growler, said the opportunity to pay homage to the two circumnavigations that came before was "fantastic".

"We've been able to pay homage to the original circumnavigation in our own way with amuch more modern jet," he said.

"The Growler is an amazing fighter jet for Australia. It's definitelyalot different to the original crew doing it in aFairey Mk III Dthat had amax speed of 90 knots (about 150 km/h).

"We've been doing some of the flying legs at about 500 knots (about 950 km/h) at most, going around the northern tip of Australia –it's fantastic."

While the shorter, seven-daycircumnavigation is not strictly traditional,Flight Lieutenant Harlen said No 6Squadron aviators had the opportunity to fly alongside Michael Smith, who is re-tracing the original flight path made by aviation pioneers, Wing Commander Stanley James Gobleand Flight LieutenantIvorEwing McIntyre in 1924.

No 6Squadron aviators shared the sky with Mr Smithabove Townsville on April 12. Mr Smith, an aviator of 20 years who was named the Australian Geographic Adventurer of the Year in 2016, is completing the circumnavigation in

amodern dual-engine SeaBear L65 amphibious seaplane.

On April 6, 1924, RAAFaviators Wing Commander Goble and Flight Lieutenant McIntyre took flight on a44-daycircumnavigation of the Australian coastline.

The daring journey aimed to test the Australian Air Force Equipment under the country'svaried climactic conditions as they surveyed where runways could be built.

The circumnavigation by seaplane was the first of its kind in Australia.

As reported by the Sydney Morning Herald on Saturday, April26, 1924,WingCommander Goble said the coastlines appeared different than they were depicted on maps and that he was satisfied they had demonstrated "this class of machine was suitable for the tropics and could be used both for war and commercial purposes". The pairflewasingle-engine Fairey Mk III D seaplane on an 13,599-kilometre journey that took 90 flying hours. Continued -Page11

Erika Allen

Photos: ErikaAllen

AnzacDay services

Sale

6AM -DawnServiceatSale

Cenotaph, Macalister Street, Sale;

6.30AM -Gunfire Breakfast with egg and bacon rolls at Sale RSL;

9AM -War Cemetery Memorial Service at Sale Cemetery;

10.30AM -Anzac Day march commences at the Clocktower, Raymond St, Sale;

10.45AM -Anzac Day service at Sale

Cenotaph, Macalister St, Sale;

11.30AM -LunchServicecommences at Sale RSL;

1PM -Two Up at Sale RSL with proceeds going to the ANZAC Appeal; 3PM -Anzac Day AFL match on the screensatSaleRSL

Maffra

MAFFRA RSL Sub Branchwillhost it’s Dawn Service from 5.45am. Amarch along Service Road will also include band playing, speeches, hymns and flag raising, with the march starting at 9am.

Abarbecue lunchand refreshments will follow at 10am at the Maffra RSL.

Briagolong

BRIAGOLONG RSL SubBranchwill be hosting aDawn (ANZAC Memorial Park) and Commemorative Service (Briagolong RSLLog Cabin- Avon St Briagolong). Dawn Servicefrom 6am and CommemorativeServices from 10.30am. Breakfast andmorning tea will follow at the log cabin.

Golden Beach

COMMEMORATIVE Service will be held at the Memorial Wall in Surf

Edge Drive,Golden Beach from 10am. Service will include include guest speakers,wreathlaying and flag raising. Service will be followed by refreshmentsatthe Golden Beach Community Centre.

Gormandale

COMMEMORATIVEService will be held at the Gormandale Cenotaph (Main Street, Gormandale), beginning at 10am.

Morning tea will follow at the Gormandale Hall.

Heyfield

HEYFIELD RSL Sub Branch will host amarch starting at 10.45am at the Heyfield Bowls Club. ACommemorative Service will follow at 11am.

This will be followed by amarch from the Cenotaph to the RSL Hall.

Loch Sport

LOCHSportRSL Sub Branch will hostaCommemorative Servicethe RSL Carpark from10.45am. Service will includeaflag raising, speeches, Two Up and refreshments

Meerlieu

ANZAC Day Dawn Service will take place at the Meerlieu Cricket Ground (Lindenow-MeerlieuRoad), with flag raising,video presentation, wreath laying and be followed by aGunfire Breakfast.

Service begins at 5.45am.

Port Albert

Rosedale

DAWN Service starting at 5.45am at the Cenotaph, Prince Street Reserve, Rosedale.

There will be aGunfire Breakfast available at Rosedale RSL SubBranch,23Hood Street,Rosedale -gold coin donation appreciated. Marchstartsatthe Lyon Street end of Albert Street, Rosedale at 1.45pm. Afternoontea will be availableat the conclusion of theceremony

Seaspray

AN Anzac Day Commemorative Service will commence at 11amat the Memorial Park (Bearup Street, Seaspray)with flag raising, speeches and wreath laying.

YARRAM RSL Sub Branch will host aDawn Service and Wreath Laying beginning at 6am at Memorial Park, Port Albert. Following services, the Port Albert Progress Association will provide refreshments.

Stratford

DAWN Service starting at 5.45am at the Cenotaph, Memorial Park, Tyers Street, Stratford.

Amarch will then be starting at 8.50am from the Corner of Tyers St and Blackburn St, Stratford, followed by refreshments at Stratford RSL Sub-BranchHall, Tyers St,Stratford

Yarram

YARRAM RSL Sub Branch will host aparade starting at 10.50am, with muster at the cornerofKing Street and CommercialRoad,with step-off at 11am

The march will head to the Cenotaph in Commercial Rd, where aCommemorative Service will take place with wreath laying.

LocalAnzacDay services will be held this Thursday(picturedislast year’sSale march). Photo: File

WELLINGTON Shire Council's Fire Danger Period (FDP) finished at 1am on Monday, April 22.

While restrictions have lifted, CFA still expects the grassfirerisktoremainacross the state, so Victorians need to be alert and prepared. CFA District 10 Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Aaron Worcester, said recent rainfall had allowed for fire restrictions to ease.

"Due to the wet weather, conditions are now more favourable for residents to burn off,"hesaid. "Farm paddocks are starting to green up, and it is now safer for landowners to cleanuptheir properties from recent storm damage and take the opportunitytoreduce fuel loads ahead of next summer."

It is important that residents check that local conditionsare safe before undertaking these activities.

Landowners must still register theirburnoffs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws, as well as EPA laws and applicable regulations.

Landowners can register theirburn-off onlineat firepermits.vic.gov.au or call 1800 668 511.

If possible, landowners should also notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.

Tips for looking after your health when there is smoke can be found on EPA's website. Keep your burn off safe and legal:

Checkfirerestrictions in your area and always register your burn at firepermits.vic.gov.au

 Check and monitor weather conditions -particularly wind;

 To avoid unnecessary calls to emer gency services, notify your neighbours beforehand;

 Leave athree-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn;

 Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading;

 Never leave aburn-off unattendedstay for its entire duration, and;

 If your burn-off gets out of control, call '000' immediately.

CarbonNet’s pipeline research underway

PhilipHopkins

THElandmark federal-state CarbonNet project will startconducting geotechnical surveys this weekbetween Loy Yang and Golden Beachfor the undergroundpipelinethataimstotakecarbon dioxide emissionsfrom the Latrobe Valley and sequester them under the Bass Strait.

The government entity has been conducting limitedsurveys on public land and private property this month to gain more technical knowledge about the proposed pipeline corridor. Surveys will be conducted along roadsides, current land access agreement properties and Crown land. Completed activities includefeature and topographic surveying at Loy Yang and Golden Beach, plant and animal surveys,ecological surveys and a high-altitude LIDAR mapping of the route.

The proposed 100-kilometre pipeline -80km buried onshore and afurther 20km offshore -will takeliquefied CO2 to acarbon captureand storage hub at Golden Beach,creatingaconnection for

multiple carbon capture projects.The pipeline consultation plan (PLP) receivedregulatory approval last August.

Up to 110 Gippsland landowners willbedirectly affected by the proposedpipeline, which will be buried 1.5 metres below the ground surface. It will extendtotwo drill centres proposedfor CarbonNet’s offshore Pelican site, where the CO2 will be stored underground, 1.5km beneath the seabed.

The talks with landowners cover the onshore pipelinepartofthe project. Once the pipeline crosses the shoreline, consultationonthe remaining estimated 20km offshore will be subjecttoand regulated by thefederal government under the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse GasStorage Act 2006.

Onshore, the pipeline will requirea30-metre easement, whichwillprovide access to construction and long-term maintenance. Some areas of vegetation on or outside the easement may need to be cleared for construction. Clearing of vegetation will

be avoided where possible, and land rehabilitated to itsprevious condition after construction. Funded by the state and federal governments and begun in 2009, CarbonNet aims to establish acommercial-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) hub in Gippsland.

The hub will enable new and existing industries in the Latrobe Valley to decarbonise and contribute to Victoria’s 2035 interim emissions reduction target and net-zero emissionsby2045. The process will start with CO2 customers providing compressed CO2 to CarbonNet for transport and storage at the Pelican site. The governments say asuccessful CarbonNet project will provide sustainable growth for Gippsland, driving jobs and investment. Potential industries include the manufacturingofhydrogen, fertiliser and bioenergy.

CarbonNetdoes not include the capture or processing of carbon facilities and only proposes to convey and store CO2 once acquired from customers.

Photo: File

Bull honours our local heroes

Tim Bull

AT the time you are reading this,I will be at Gallipoli, spending afew days outside Thursday's official ceremonies to visit afew of our fallen locals.

As we approach this day, we should all remember the men and women who have served in all theatres of war, and particularly those who made the ultimate sacrifice and survived but carried the scars of their service. One of the challenges is that outside our own families, it is difficult to comprehend the scale of loss that was experienced as their names are placed on honour boards.

Hence, in this column, Iwould like to introduce youtosome of the men who fell at Gallipoliand whose graves Iamcurrently visiting. I’m able to visit due to the outstanding work of the volunteers at the EastGippsland Family History Group. They are agroup of dedicated local historians who have done some incredible work in researching the stories of our servicemen and women.

The first two are Basil Hooper and Vern Brookes, both with Orbost connections. It is doubtful they knew each other pre-war as they had separate upbringings, but wouldhave almost certainly known each other heading to battle. Vern was originally from Ballarat and had been teaching at aWangrabelle school and rode to Orbost to enlist. Basilwas born in Orbost, but was working on a farm in Mooroopnawithhis brother,Will, when war broke. However, both were assigned to the7th Battalion and were both on board the Hororata, sailing to Egypt for training before heading to Gallipoli.

The 7th Battalion was in the second landing party on that fateful morningofApril 25.Bythe time it was called into action,the Turks were ready as any element of surprisewas gone. Vern was shot in the landing boat and nevermadeitto shore,while Basil made it to shore,but was one of the many cut down on the beach. His brother, Will, was also later killed in France,and their sister, Katherine Smith, of Bairnsdale,was awarded a memorial plaque. They arebothburied at the No.2 OutpostCemetery. Basilhas his own grave, and Vern aSpecial Memorial headstone, meaning he’s buried in thatcemetery,but the exact location is unknown.

Thomas Bell, from Lakes Entrance, was a telephonist by tradeand thereforeitwas no surprise he was asignaller in wartime. He too was on the Hororata, but unlike Vern and Basil, was in the 6th Battalion. Thomas made it ashore but was also killed in the heavy fighting of April 25 and is buried at the Lone Pine Cemetery. His brother, Algernon was later killed at Fromelles in July 1916, and his cousin, William Bell, was killed in 1917 in France also.

Thomas Haylock was a30-year-old fisherman from Raymond Island, and being amember of the 21st Battalion, was sent to Gallipoli as a reinforcement.

The ship he was travelling on was torpedoed by aGerman submarine,forcingthe crew to take to the rescue boats, many of which overturned.

The survivors arrived on September 7, but sadly, Thomas was killed on October 12, leaving his wife

awidow, whom he married before embarking. He is buried at Shrapnel Gully Cemetery. They arejust four of an extraordinarynumber of East Gippslanders who rest on the shores of Gallipoli.

Remembering the courageousANZACspirit

Sale RSL Staff

THIS year, it has been more than 100 years since the ANZAC landing,but it alsoayear when we remember battles where Australians and New Zealanders served and died, which happened more than 100 years ago -for example, the battles of Frommelles and Pozieres in France and the Battle of Romani in Egypt.

For the New Zealanders, they foughtinthe Battle of the Somme where they suffered 7000 casualties at the same time as the Australians were fighting at Frommellesand Pozieres.Inthe battles involving the Australians, there was more than 28,000 Australians killed or wounded. Frommelles was designed as afeint to draw attention from British attacks elsewhere and was adisaster, as the Germanssoonrealised it wasnot amainattack. Pozieres was atwo-week battle for a strong German-held position, which dominated the battlefield. The Australians were able to capture and hold the position despite significant German counterattacks.

what was hoped for. But the men and women on the ground stayed and did their duty.

You can apply the ANZAC spirit to your everyday life.

The battleofRomani,fought in August 1916, finally put astop to the Turkishthreat to the Suez Canal and marked the beginning of the British forces' drive out of Egypt and into Palestine. Initially, only the Australian 1st LightHorse Brigade was in position to meet the Turkish attack.

Heavily outnumbered, it was forced to fall back, but as the day progressed, both mountedand infantry reinforcements steadily arrived, allowing the position to be stabilised and for acounterattack to be conducted.

Of those who died in those battles, 12 men were from Sale and district.

Their names are on the Cenotaph here at the Memorial Hall in McCalister Street.

No matter what difficulties you think are in the way, think of the ANZACs and others who have followed themand push the difficulties to one side and accomplish your task.

Secondly, the ANZAC spirit represents an acceptance of responsibility. This is another quality you should apply in your everyday lives. Take responsibility for everything you do. It is easy to say 'I did that'or'That's my work' when everything goes right. We all know that sometimes things do not go right. Remember the ANZAC spirit and take responsibility for what you are doing.

They include: Colin Bolitho, Archie Bower, Walter Cox, John Davis, Harry Forster,ClemPhillips (age 20), Arthur and Herbert Ray (three Ray brothers died in World War 1), Laurie Rickets, John Ross, Vic Ruff and Charles Stone. There are still relatives of those men living in Sale today.

This leads the meaning of the ANZAC Spiritwhat does that mean?

The ANZAC spirit alsoincludes asense of compassion. This has been summed up in the Australian experience as mateship. This means to watch out for your mate, help him or her at all times and don't poke fun at other people because they may have had some misfortune,orcome froma different partofthe world. We need to be accepting and supportive of people from all cultures and all backgrounds.

So, thesethreevery simple things are what we mean when we talk about the ANZAC spirit. Another word you can apply to this same spirit is unselfishness.

It is ashort word for anumberofqualities which all of us, not just the men and women serving in the Navy, Armyand Air Force, can usefullyuse in our everyday lives.

TheANZAC spiritrepresents asense of purpose and direction. The originalANZACs and the ANZACs who followed knew what they had to do, they knew of the dangers and the difficulties, but they got down and did their job and did not let those difficulties stop them.

It is true that the whole campaign at Gallipoli, other campaigns in WW1 and the disastersofWW2 and setbacks on other operations, did not achieve

Now, like every other person, hope that Australia willneverbeinvolved in another war -and that you will never be called upon to experience such aterriblething.

But you should use thesethings- asense of purpose;acceptance of responsibility and unselfishness, whatever you do in your lives.

If you do this you will be keeping the faith with thosewho putthe word ANZAC into our language and you will be helping to make sure that the ANZAC spirit is always part of life in Australia.

Tim Bulliscurrently in Gallipoli. Photo: Contributed

National pride embodied in new scholarship

BenMcArthur

ANEW scholarship opportunity worth $6300 is available to the region's Year 11s, called the Charlie McCallum Scholarship.

The scholarship aims to instil asense of national pride and local connectiontothe Gippslanderswho fought in Papua New Guinea.

Theprogram will runduring the school holidays in July and is an opportunity to join the Kokoda Trekwiththe Specialist Trekking company 'Adventure Kokoda'.

The studentswill fly to Kokoda and be part of achallengingnine-day hike over unpredictable terrain for 120 kilometres.

Part of the trek includesa training period where applicants willhavethe opportunity to hike around local trails and wildlife every two weeks. In one instance, they will climb Mt Taylor in Bairnsdale.

"We will get together in agroup and do these activities so we can preparethem, raise theirfitness level, and get them used to the track," scholarship founder, Craig Guthrie said.

"Because at Kokoda, the incline is either going up or down, and it's on difficult terrain where it's hard to see in front of you because the terrain is so steep, and when you think you're at the end, you're nowhere near it."

Charlie McCallum was Foster-born but Yarramraised and aformer champion woodchopper.He enlisted in the Second Australian Imperial Force in May 1940 and was part of the 2/14th battalion. He was initially sent to the Middle East and then to the Pacific to fight against the Japanese forces.

Mr Guthriesaidthat the scholarship's namesake’s most memorable act occurred at the battle of Isurava in Papua New Guinea.

"There,hewanted to protect his mates and let them fall back when they were getting overrun by the advancing Japanese," he said.

Corporal Charlie McCallum, who was wounded at the time, stood his ground with aBren gun and aThompson sub-machine gun as the Japanese advanced into his position to bide time and hold offthe advancingenemy, allowing his comrades to retreat into safety.

WhenMcCallumhimselfwithdrew, his comrades went back to the scene and counted the bodies of 40 Japanese soldiers.

For this, his superiors recommended him for the Victoria Cross,but he insteadreceived the Distinguished Conduct Medal.

"He survived that battle, but unfortunately a weeklater,hegot killedbyasniper on Brigade Hill," Mr Guthrie said. Corporal McCallum died aged 35 Mr Guthriesaidhefirst heard the story from one of the leaders of the Kokoda Trek, and after hearingthe story, wanted to find away to honour Corporal McCallum.

Track clearing with walking club

BEN Cruachan Walking Club members not only go out on regular hikes, they also assist other agencies with track maintenance, particularly along the iconic McMillans Walking Track.

On the weekendofAnzacDay, the club is assisting DEECAinthe Upper Goulburn State Forest to clear logs and vegetation growth from McMillans Walking Track either sideofChampion Spur Track. This is agreat opportunity to experienceaunique part of the High Country, with track maintenance activities occurring this Friday and Saturday (April 26-27), with the option of Sundaymorning if needed. Agood level of fitnessisrequired, with arange of tasksonhand using both motor and manual tools. Camping at Champion Spur Track, these weekendsinthe past have beenwell receivedby participants,who speakfondly of the joy of being‘out bush’, the companionship of like-minded people, and the satisfaction of giving to the hiking community. Those who might be interested in participating are encouragedtocheck out the Ben Cruachan website for details at bcwc.au

"And Ithought that since Bairnsdale is running ascholarship program after aKokoda War Hero, why can't there be one in Sale as well? Charlie McCallum spent manyofhis younger years in Sale," he said.

"I've always been interested in Kokoda since it was on our doorstep."

To apply for the scholarship, send an email to Mr Guthrie at charlie.m.scholarship@gmail.com and write a400+word response to the following questions:

 What does the Kokoda Story mean to Australia?

 What is the Gippsland connection to the Kokoda trail? Applications close on May 5. Applicants must provide their full name, address, contact details and evidence of parental permission. The ideal applicant should hold apassport; however, it is not required. The scholarshipwill pay for airfares, accommodation and meals.

Photo: Ben McArthur

Tele-health service at work

DEMAND is growing for afreetele-health medical serviceoffered across Gippsland, supportingpeople who need to see adoctor after-hours when their usual GP is unavailable.

Gippsland Primary HealthNetwork commissionedHealthAccess 12 months ago to provide an after-hours service free to people who live in a Gippsland postcode and since then, it has delivered 389 consultations with positive feedback from patients.

GippslandPHN Chief Executive Officer, Amanda Proposch,saidthe service was a"good news" story for the region, providing the Gippsland community withanother optionwhen they neededmedical advice outside normal working hours.

"We know people don't always get sick or need medical advice during the day when their usual general practice is open," Ms Proposch said.

"This service is helping fill that gap."

HealthAccess is adesigned solution to support community,general practices, local hospitals, Residential Aged Care Homes and ambulance services to manage increasing volumes of GP-Type Presentations in the after-hours period.

It supports people who need low acuity care when it's not an emergency and theirusualGPisclosed. This may include things from colds, flu and fever to allergic reactions, headaches, sporting injuries and COVID-19.

The patient's regular GP is sent asummary of the consultationtoensure continuity of care. Gippsland PHN said feedback from all partsofGippsland had used the service and provided positive feedback.

Ms Proposch said the after-hours telehealth service was designed to support existing GPs,

enabling their patients access to medical services after-hours if required.

"Medical needs after-hoursdon't always require avisittothe hospitalemergencydepartment," she said.

"With HealthAccess, people can speak to aGP from their own home and will be triaged if the issue is urgent."

Gippsland PHN commissions arange of free after-hours services across the region in addition to HealthAccess.

"If you or someone you know needsmedical support in the after-hours period and it's urgent but not an emergency, you can get support wherever you live in the region," Ms Proposch said.

"We have twoPrimary Priority CareCentres in Warragul and Moe,anafter-hours service offered by aconsortium of local general practices in Wellington Shire and telehealth options."

Ms Proposchsaidrecent data showed that Gippsland had alow after-hours GP attendance and urged people to be aware of the range of services available.

"These figures show that by not using the afterhours services available, it will have an inevitable impactonthe workload of hospital emergency departments. We want to keep these emergency departments free for those who really need them."

To use the service, peoplecan call1800272 767from 6pm-10pm weeknights, 12pm-10pm Saturdays, 8am-6pmSunday (and public holidays)

You can find out more details on the Gippsland PHN websiteatgphn.org.au/what-we-do/programs/ after-hours-program/

i y alth Gippsland PrimaryHealth ed Network commissioned t s HealthAccess 12 months f - ago to provide an after-hours service free to people who live in aGippsland postcode and since then, it has e u t t delivered 389 consultations k with positive feedback from patients.

Daddo’s award-winning short story

THIS is the first part of atwo part series about the winners of the The Sheila Malady Short Story competition as partofthe Shakespeare on the River Festival.

This piece, originally titled ElementsofA Life, was written by Hazelwood South local Vicky Daddo and is the winner of the open category.

Gippsland Times journalist Ben McArthur spoke to author Vicky Daddo after her win.

Ben McArthur: It's interesting to write from the perspective of someone looking at their own funeral, casket choosing, etc. Why did you choose this?

Vicky Daddo:Iknowit'savery oddperspective, but Ilikethat unusual, dark comedy writing style. Ithought that it would be quite an amusing perspective to write about the dead womanand what's goingthroughher mind when she looks at the children she is leaving behind and how she would react.

BM: Can you explain the connection to the theme of 'Elements'?

VD: If you read the text closely enough, you will see that many of the descriptionsmatch the different elements I've picked for them. So the eldest is water, the middleboy, Andrew, is fire, the youngest is wind, and the mother is (earth). They represent the four elements in the atmosphere, which gave me some freedom to think about how they would act as the story unfolded.

Elements of ALife

IAMbeing buriedinmysea-greendress, the one I wore for Alice’s wedding. Iwould prefer to be laid to rest in my favourite pair of terracotta palazzo pants and that handcrafted alpaca fleece sweater in olive Tim got me on our last, final, Irealise now, anniversary. That outfit could easily morph from casual daywear to stylish and comfortableeternal rest garb. Not thatI’ll be gettingmuch eternal rest, judging by thedisagreements overwreaths and hymns and catering. Ishould have planned my own funeral but Iran out of time. One moment Iwas rolling scone dough and the nextIwas sliding down the kitchen counter with asearing headache and the knowledge that my last day on earth would be aTuesday. The worst day of the week -too far away from the next weekend to get excited and aday removed from the previous, so the memories are turning stale. At least Tim got to check out on aSunday. The day of rest. Idid smile at that. Eventually. Upon receiving the news, Alice, the eldest, wept like an ocean, soaking her skin to the depths of her bones. Andrew, the middle child, blazedateveryone and everythinginhis path, always aspark ready to ignite. Amy, the youngest, swept around the place blowing out sharp huffs of air like an undersized bull. When they came together that night, they sat in companiable silence for the longest time. Alice wept quietly into her wad of tissues but began to share the famous story of how Ionce limbo-danced under alow-hangingblackwood branch and ended up folded almost in half on the hard soil too afraid to move for fear of breaking my spine. Ihad lain there for what felt like hours while Tim put them all to bed and apparently agreed to repeated requests to read Possum Magic. She recounted this familial tale, that had taken on alife of its own at parties, turning me into a snake-hipped hula girl or alithe and limber pole dancer, but during this retelling, the facts stayed true and Amy’shuffs of air turnedinto choked sob-laughs and Andrew’s fiery cursessubsided. Eventually, he went outside to smoke and the girls joined him by that very branch in the garden where they sat on the sacred spot and pulled at the dewy grass. Looking up, they saw acomet flash across thesky, tail burning. Andrew said that was me, saying my goodbyes in flamboyant style. Iliked that

idea, though Iwas never agreat flyer. Walkingwas more my thing. Amy roared at the night,her breath swirling tornado-like in the crisp air. Icaught the words as they evaporated.

‘I’ll miss you so much.’

'The feeling’s mutual, darlings.’ Isaiditasloudly as Icould. Iwilled it into their hearts and souls. I think they got the message. Isaw Alice stop crying briefly and look around.Isaw Andrew’s expression cool and his eyes closed. Isaw Amy’s arms settle by her sides and her feet stop moving, calmer.

But now, afew days later, they are together at the funeraldirectors and cannot agree on anything. Amy breezed into the office and, pacing in circles where she switches from agreeing with her sister’s ideas and then with her brother’s. The director, a quiet woman with such pale skin and grey eyes that she might pass for acorpse herself, cannot get aword in. She needs to interrupt, she needs to offer advice,she needs to take control,but Andrew snaps and sets firetoall of Alice’s plans. Alice’s face is fluid, eyes watery, nose red-tipped and runny. She dissolves again and thereisa ten-minute break while the director arranges for tea and coffee and dainty shortbreads.

‘Give me an eco-coffin thatwill breakdown,’ Isay Let me sink back into the earth. Ilove the idea of the sustainable circleoflife-ithas becomeapparent thatthereisnothing else beyond. Nothing here but rest. No fires of hell, no luminescence of heaven. It just is. Iwas born, Igrew, Ilived, Idied. Idon’t want pomp and ceremony, Idon’t want hymns to acreator that hasn’t made an appearance, Idon’t want money thrown into ahandcrafted timber box with more decoration than aroyal carriage. Iam not aqueen. Iamdead. Dead people don’tneed fuss. They just need to rest.

Still, my children have other ideas. I’mnot happy. Itry to make it thunder. Itry to cause an earthquake.Ithink I’ve managed to materialise in the corner of the office because Alice looksup and stares in that directionfor the longest time. Her cheeks lighten and her lips part, issuing a faint wet noise.

‘I think we should go for something plain. Mum wouldn’t want anything too showy.’

There’s my sensible firstborn.

Andrew erupts. ‘Fucks’ sake, Alice. You’re such acheapskate. She should have the premium rosewood.’ He draws in asharp breath and Ican see aheat-haze shimmying around him before he calms down, his face changing from raging scarlet to amere puce. ‘It’s the colour of that bloody desk she loves…loved so much.’ There’s aclicking sound and Irealise he’s flicking the lighter gripped in his hand. The room willexplodeifhedoesn’tstop. Smoke will fill the office and the pale lady will disappear. Poof! There’llbeanunexpected cremation. Iwant to clap my hands. Yes, my boy. Set the world on fire. Start with me! But the director makes a‘harumph’ into her small fist and the children turn to her, suitably chastised.

My rosewood deskwas where Icontemplated life. It stood in an overstuffed study with aview to the garden and it was where Iescaped to write in my journal or to contemplate life and all its wonders and frustrations. What was it all about? I’m still notsure, but that room always got me thinking. Outside,Icould admire the pondthatTim had constructed after Alicewas born. Atinkling water feature and floating pinklilies madeitafavourite. On the desk there was aceramic dragon breathing fire, agift after Andrew was born because our son had entered the world red and angry. On the nearestwallwas asketchofawindmill in rural France, sails keeping the air clearover the nearby graveyard, home to arelative of Tim’s, afallen soldier whose corporeal remains had been interred ahemisphere apart from the family but who kept his spirit alive in stories and photos and medals. We had conceived Amy on that trip.

On the desk stood two photographs of our family, one where the childrenweresmall andmissing teeth and had bright eyes and elastic limbs;the other where we were all adults and our joints were stiffer, our hair was tamer and our smiles more painted. But we were all happy. Our family had grown, adding husbands and wives and children and pets. Alice, Andrewand Amy got together occasionally and that made Tim and Isoproud. Iwrote about it in my journal. Iwrote about my enduring love for my children,myhusband, my life. When Iwrote Iwas grounded to that desk, its energy flowing through the timber intomy pen. Ihope they find that last book. You can’t be embarrassed about diary entries when there’s no heartbeat to pump blood to your cheeks.

If I am to be buried perhaps the idea of a coffin that matchesmybeloved desk isn’t abad one. But Amyistalking about the gravestone now. White marble. Gold lettering. Ugh. Amy! Who are you?

But then her mind swings wildly, blowing through black granite to bronze before she settles on an etched rock which sounds more up my alley. Isigh and the lights flicker. They all look up.

‘It’s asign,’Amy says, arms floating by her side.

‘It’s an electrical fault,’Andrew counters, still flicking the lighter, but slower now. The director glares at him and he stops. She writes something in her notes and advises that they don’t need to make all the decisions now.

‘We do,’ Alice declares. It’s the most decisive she’s been for decades. There’s steel in her eyes for a half-second, before she crumbles again and sniffs into her tissue. ‘I can’t do this again.’

Lucky she only has one mother then,Ithink, but not unkindly. Poor Alice. She takes everything so personally, as thoughshe hasforgotten shehas two siblingstoshare the decision-making with, to share her grief and bewilderment and anger at being an orphan.But it’s all my fault she’s like this. As the eldest, Itrained her in the art of mediation and now she martyrs herself to it. Speaking of which, they are brochure with ar markers and Ishudder ‘Wooooooh!’ Iscreech. to rush from my point like aBan rip thebrochure their hands. Inste the pagesfluttera the book thumps shut. That’s that on the cross-for-aheadstone front.

LATER, when they’ve all gone, decisionsmade and everyone (even me) happy, or perhaps comfortable would be a better choice, Iambereft. IsupposeI could follow them to their homes and watch them. Iamfree for now but this haunting stage cannot last Presumably after the funeral, all parties will havetoaccept

theirfate and resume their lives, or in my case, death. So, until my beautiful but understated rosewood coffin, to match my desk, has been lowered intothe ground, Iwill rageagainst this injustice, weep for my children and grandchildren and the things Iwill never get to see,the laughsI will not hear, the gifts Iwill notbuy, theglorious mundanityofthe everyday Iwill no longer be able to experience.

The day of the funeral is crisp and golden and cool. Just right. Alice will bring the moisture with her Biblicaltears. Amy will move the leaves on the trees with her tempestuous mood swings. Andrew will give theeulogy, so Iexpect flames.

They are nothing if not predictable. My eldest cannot function withoutweeping for the world She leaks and snivels and her sadness is crushing. Amy, my baby,rushed in and sat in three different seats before settling. She is fidgeting and blowing out sharp puffs through her nostrils, presumably to avoid crying. She knows she couldn’t match her older sister on that front. And Andrew, my piggy in the middle, does such awonderful job of the eulogy that he almost sends enough fire into my heart to get it started again. My life, as he recounts it, sounds like the dream. He recalls so many moments Ihad forgotten. Ihear laughter. Iimagine heads nodding in memory. Idon’twantitto end.But the point of life is thatitisfinite. Iunderstand this now. Its brackets of birth and deathmean that the equation in the middle must be experienced. And Ibelieve my experience was perfect.

Soil hits the coffin, more and more of it. Thud, thud. Sounds are muffled. That chapter is ending so Ilet it go. My life is now in the minds and souls of others. Iammemories. Iammomentsthat have been forgotten.Iamthe colour of adesk. Iamlines in adiary. Iamlilies in apond,awindmill on awall, adragon on adesk. In the final darkness, Ifinally understand that of all the

Gippsland author, Vicky Daddo. Photo: Contributed

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Paying it forward for ANZAChorses and past veterans

Leanne Baxter

IT was an inspirational screening of the documentary The Healing,held at the Sale Greyhound Club on Friday evening, April 12.

Ann Mitchell, amember of the Longford Adult Riding Club, initially suggested the idea of holding aspecialscreening of The Healing as afundraiser for Scott Brodie’s ‘Horse Aid’ program -and also to help veterans and first responders continue to participate. While it wasn’t quitea‘sell-out’ crowd, we certainly made up for it in the enthusiastic support from our locals, and some incredible fundraising support from our local businesses, who donated fabulous prizes for the silent auction and raffles -and we certainly reached our goal of being able to donate $500 to Horse Aid.

As an audience member,wegot to hear veterans’ stories, and it was clearthat everyindividualhad been damagedand wounded psychologically.But we were also empowered watching how these men and women re-invented themselves.

It’s one thing to read about someoneelse’s tough times, but seeing the veterans’ reminiscence of pain,fearand humiliationreminds us all,that everyone’s mental and emotionalhealth is precious.

As we approach Anzac Day, we remember the fallen throughout all wars and services, but this filmreminded us to also rememberthose who struggled to continue with returning to ‘everyday existence’ and sadly took their life (30 times more than those killed in combat since 2001).This documentary highlighted both people and horses recovering symbiotically, and seeing this process unfold was an uplifting experience.

Ms Baxter and Ms Mitchell would especially like to thank all those who came along to support Mr Brodie’s work -the ticket sales alone meant that the club could make asizable donation to Horse Aid. Many thanks also to the Sale Greyhound Club staff, particularly Michelle McQuillen, who worked incredibly hard and were very generous with their time to ensure the night was asuccess. LongfordAdult Riding Club would also like to thank other businesses for their noteworthy donationsfor the silent auction, including Saddleworld (Sale), Sale Farm and Equine, Banksia Fine Foods (Bairnsdale) and Brown Wigg (Sale).

If you haven't already viewed the film, you can do so via thehealing.com.au Leanne Baxter is club secretary of Longford Adult Riding Club.

Resolvinghealth inequalities

ErikaAllen

DUBBEDa"painclinicinyour pocket",the CHARLI app aims to empower people in rural and regional areas to manage reproductive health trackingwhile encouragingthem to seek assistance to identify conditions like endometriosis.

"CHARLI's your health companion in your pocket and is heretoaddress the shame, silence, and stigma that still exists surrounding female healthrelated symptoms," said CHARLI co-founder, Samantha Costa.

The app uses data from wearables like aFitbitand Apple watch to track and monitor menstruation, fertility, sexual health, pregnancy,peri/menopause, and AI logarithms within the app use this information to pinpoint abnormalities.

It was released on March 23, coinciding with EndoMarch, the month dedicated to spreading endometriosis awareness.

Endometriosis, an inflammatory condition,affects nearly one million Australians and is characterised by the growth of cellsresembling thoseinthe uterine lining outside the uterus, causing pain throughout the menstrual cycle.

Associate Professor Anusch Yazdani, Endometriosis Australia’s Medical Director and aco-founder of the CHARLI app, says the condition is historically under-recognised.

But he said organisations likeEndometriosis Australia, which advocatesfor and fundsendometriosisresearch projects, are helping raise public awarenessand prompt governmentalchange.Last year, the federal government introduced 22 federal government-funded pelvic pain clinics across Australia. Four exist in Victoria, and three are in the regions, including Bendigo, Warrnambool, and Geelong. Still, limitations to diagnoses and treatment still exist in regions east of Melbourne.

According to Endometriosis Australia, women living in metropolitan areas are diagnosed in five years, while it takes six years for most regional women to be diagnosed.

"For ruraland remote communities (the issue) is that thesepelvic pain clinics are all located in metropolitan,predominantlywhite centres that are actually very well provided with medical services already," Dr Yazdani said.

"That's not taking away from that at all; that's where they're located first because they need to be

therefor the volume of patients to come through.

But of course, this provides aproblem for our rural and remote communities.”

He said CHARLI is asolution to inequities in healthcare access and diagnostic support, especially in rural and remote populations.

"We know thereare many Australians living with the symptoms of endometriosis undiagnosed for years,especially in ruraland remote areas.

CHARLI aims to address this by identifying abnormal patterns and prompting women to discuss with their doctor," he said.

The diagnostic delay-from the firsttimeapatient presentstoaGPuntil the time adiagnosisismedically confirmed and atreatment plan is made -for endometriosis has reduced from 12 years to six years.

However, Dr Yazdani said that no big improvements in the time it takes people with pelvic pain to seek help from GPs had been made.

"From the onset of symptoms in agiven woman

until she considers that to be enough to present to someone like aGP, that time frame over the last two decades has remained fixed at three years," he said. He said the CHARLIapp can assist people by alerting theuser to abnormal symptoms and encouraging them to get help by talking to aGP. It also equips them with acomprehensive dataset of theirexperiences,enabling them to inform their GP better.

More than alerting women and girlstoreproductive abnormalities, Ms Costa said the app provides more accessible support by enabling users to connect with experts via telehealth (over-the-phone) consultations.

Userscan access healthcare professionals, including GPs, physiotherapists, dieticians, specialists, and allied health practitioners, through alink within the app.

The app is free for the first three months; however, Dr Yazdani said telehealth consultations are on apay-per-use basis.

Endometriosis affects oneinnine Australian women. Photo: iStock

Disability service set to modernise

StefanBradley

MORGY'S Respite House represents the latest innovation by the George Gray Centre(GGC), which aims to modernise and expand its support services for adults with disabilities.

This development emphasises the organisation's commitment to providing tailored care and support, creating opportunities for individuals and their families.

GGC is based in Maffra, but the Morgy'sRespite Houseisoffsite in Sale.

The facility was created in response to the growing need for specialised respite services in the Wellington region, offering asanctuary for guests. It features arange of personalised activities tailored to individual needs,including attending local concerts and community events, fostering asense of belonging and community connection.

For example, guests from Morgy's had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Jessica Mauboy concert at The Wedge, providing an exciting and

engaging outing for everyone involved. They've also been on afun trip to the annual St Michael’s Heyfield Duck Cup, which was adelightful community event that the guests thoroughly enjoyed.

"These activities are just acouple of examples of how we actively participate in local events, offering our community members with enriching experiences that connect them more closely with the wider community," GGC Chief Executive, Peter Green said.

Mr Green emphasised the role of respite services in the wellbeing of individuals and their families.

“Respite care is essential to maintaining the health and wellbeing of both caregivers and those they support. Caregivers oftenface significant challenges, including fatigue, depression, and their own health issues," he said.

"Respite services offer amuch-needed break, promoting mental and physical health by allowing caregivers to rest and recharge. At GGC, we understand these dynamics, which is why the opening of Morgy’s Respite House is such acriticalventure.

Here, we align with modern needs, offering aspace whereguests can enjoy arange of activities, fostering bothindependence and community integration.

"We’re not just responding to demand; we're addressinga vital component of caregiver and community health as highlighted by statistics showing the significant impact of respite services on caregivers’wellbeing and theessential support it provides to families across the spectrum.”

Mr Green said that funding for Morgy's came from the group's operating budget.

"As anot-for-profit organisation, George Gray Centre is committed to reinvesting funds directly in our facilitiestobenefit our GGC community

This approach largely supported the initiative to develop Morgy’s Respite House, utilisingfundsthat have been carefully allocated from our operating budget," he told the Gippsland Times

"This strategy ensures that we can continue to enhance and expand our service offerings, maintaining our focus on the wellbeing and support of our community."

Morgy’s is designed to be ahomeawayfrom home for its guests, ensuring awarm, welcoming, and adaptive environment. Individuals can relax, develop, and engage at their own pace, supported by adedicated team.The emphasis on individual choice and community integration underlines GGC’s forward-thinking approach to disability support, paving the way for amore inclusive and understanding society.

"There’s definitely asignificant need forquality respite care services in the Wellington region. Feedbackfrom our GGC community strongly indicates agrowing demand for supportive respite care," Mr Green said.

"Weacknowledge thatnot all mainstream facilitiesare suitableoradequately equippedtomeet the specific needs of some of our community members, which further cements the importance of specialised services like Morgy’s."

For more information about Morgy’s Respite House and the services offered,reach out to Mr Green at pgreen@georgegray.org.au or go to the George Gray Centre Facebook page.

FrontofMorgy’s Respite House,afacility used by GeorgeGrayCentre. Photos: Soda Creatives Insidethe openplan living/dining/kitchen area.

Growlers touch down in Sale

From Page 1

WHEN the seaplane touched down at St Kilda Beach, the Sydney MorningHerald reported on May 20, 1924, that "two very tired and very dirty men clambered out, amid renewed cheering from the crowds that had now completelybroken through the police barriers".

Acrowd of 10,000 gathered to greet the aviators. They were reported to bear "manifest signsofthe experience they had been through" -their torn oil and sand-stained uniforms told of the challenging weather conditions and countless maintenance troubles the pair confronted.

Prime Minister at the time, Stanley Bruce, commended their achievements.

"Wing CommanderGoble and Flight Lieutenant McIntyre have shown true spirit of our early pioneers and by their achievement have enrolled their names in the history of our country," he said at the time.

The original Fairey Mk III Dseaplane was engineered by the Fairey Aviation Company in England and fitted with aRolls-Royce Eagle VIII, 375 hp,12-cylinder V-type engine.

In 1924, Wing Commander Goble and Flight Lieutenant McIntyre completed the circumnavigation in 44 days. In 1974, Wing Commander Raymond Funnell, Commander of No 6Squadron at Amberley, and Squadron LeaderJohn Miller completed it in twodaysina faster F-111. This year's flight took place over seven days.

The journey to pilot such advanced aircraft is difficult, but made all the more rewarding by following in the footsteps of former RAAF aviators.

"It'sverynostalgicand it's amazing to be able to give back to the training institutes that Iwent through myself," Flight Lieutenant Harlen said. "To come back and give that experience to hopefully motivate all of the students on base and also just give (Pilot Officer) Cooper (McClymont) an awesome experience he'll never forget -hopefully

motivating him to come and fly someGrowlers in the future."

Pilot Officer McClymont said he had dreamed of flying in aGrowler since he was 10-years-old.

It was his first time in the aircraft on Thursday, but the aviator said he had "done that in my head many times in my life before today -itwas very cool".

Becoming afully-fledged Growler pilot takes three years, Lieutenant Byrne explained.

For Pilot OfficerMcClymont, getting to experience the thrill of flying in sucha powerful aircraft makes the hard work worth it.

"It's asuper long and arduous processtoget through, even to start training," he said.

"To jump in the back of one earlier than Iexpected (is) the most amazing opportunity."

Flight Lieutenant Byrne remembers the first time he flew in aGrowler.

"I was alittle surprised at how violent it was on take-off because it bounces around and you feel the afterburners kick in. It's just unreal."

Having trained at RAAF Base East Sale, Flight Lieutenant Byrne, who is a"back seater" in Growler jets, his proper title being the Electronic Warfare Officerofthe aircraft, is responsible for "jamming" adversaries from the sky with electromagnetic equipment. He said he had spent much time at the Sale East Air Mission Training school, where he found his "happy place" flying in the back seat.

He said the opportunity to fly in aGrowler as a student makes the tough training worth it.

"Having the opportunity to see these things up close gives you that motivation just to keep working because it's along, hardslog. But when you see these things, and you get to fly into the airfield that you were training at in (a Growler), it's worth it."

Whileitishard to imaginethe feeling of flying in aGrowler,Flight Lieutenant Byrne said commercial flights are comparably disappointing once you experience the power of the Growler, highlighting it is sure to take your breath away.

The EA-18G Growler is atwo-crewed combataircraft equipped with two F414-GE-400 turbofan engines and hasacapacity to fly at 1960 km/h.

Flight Lieutenant JoeByrne is an Electronic WarfareOfficer,who sitsinthe back seat of Growler aircrafts. Photos:Erika Allen

Cue TopGun soundtrack. FlightLieutenant Max Harlen (left) andPilot OfficerCooper McClymont (right) shared in theexperience of flying aEA-18G Growler

8. Who wrote and performed the song American Pie?

THREE POINTERS

9. Which country won the 2022 Men’sFIFAWorld Cup title?

1991

10. What type of animal is aFlemish Giant?

11. Abag of grass seed covers 5squaremeters. How many bags would you need for aspace 10m by 4m?

12. What was film company Pixar’sfirst movie?

FOUR POINTERS

13. Who wrote the epic poem “Paradise Lost”?

14. What is the process by which plants make their food using sunlight called?

FIVE POINTER

15. Guess the songs from these lyrics? One point for each correct answer

1. Somebody once told me, The world is gonna roll me, Iain’tthe sharpest tool in the shed...

2. My baby don’tmessaround, Because she loves me so, And this Iknowfor sure(uh)...

3. At first Iwas afraid, Iwas petrified, Kept thinkin’ Icould never live without you by my side...

4. Aclub isn’tthe best place to find alover,Sothe bar is whereI go (Mm)

5. Ihear the train a-comin’, it’srolling ‘round the bend, And Iain’t seen the sunshine since Idon’tknow when...

HOW DID YOU FARE?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done; 15-22: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement; 0-8: Hit the books.

FedUni fighting water weeds

FEDERATION University Australia has partnered with Southern Rural Water (SRW) in co-designing UV-C radiation technology to efficiently combat submersed aquaticweeds in theMacalister Irrigation District.

Federation University researchstudent,Dian Udugamasuriyage, is exploring the feasibility of using UV-C lightradiationtokill aquatic weeds, which will help to manage efficiency of water flow in irrigation channels.

Mr Udugamasuriyage's research has been made possible by an industry-funded Higher Degrees by Research(HDR) grant, which is an integral part of Federation’s co-opmodel. Federation’s co-op gets students work and world ready,through directconnection to employers, paid placements, career preparation and workplace skill development, supported by aleader in student support, skills development and social equity.

“Currently,Iamchecking the cellular level changesthateffectonaquatic plant leaves from UV-C radiation. This will give us conclusive evidencethat aquatic weeds can be killed using thisradiation. After that,anapplication willbe designed as an apparatus to be used in the field,” Mr Udugamasuriyage said.

Maintenance supervisor at SRW, PeterMiller, says the industry will benefit from removal of dangerous chemical use by introducing this technology. “Not having to use chemicals will be the winner. Currently we have to stop irrigation during the season to treat weeds. We are also using dangerous chemicals, which is not ideal,” Mr Miller said.

“Additionally, the technology will create amore environmentally solution than using chemicals.”

Mr Udugamasuriyage says that conducting the

research in partnership with industry means the focus is not only on the academic outcome of the project, but that tangible solutions are being found.

“From this co-op placement Ihad the opportunity to engage with employees of Southern Rural Water. Iwas able to gather knowledge on the operations, andhow agricultural water demand is handled,” he said

Federation University's Associate Professor in Mechatronics, Dr Gayan Kahandawa Appuhamillage, said the study pioneers the exploration of UV-C lightfor managing aquatic weeds, which has the potential to revolutionise management of our waterways.

"There hasn't been any comprehensive research conducted on this subject until now, highlighting the novelty and importance of this work,” he said.

“Collaborating withthe local industry is gratifying, especially when observing the direct impact of our efforts in enhancing safety for everyone involved.”

AFederation University lecturer in Environmental Sciences, Dr Kushan Tennakoon, said this was a classic instance of collaborative industry research partners providing an opportunity for apost-grad student to engage in areal-world research project co-designed with them.

“Weenvisagethatresults of this novel investigation will help reducethe chemicalpollution caused by synthetic herbicides currently used to control aquatic weeds in our irrigation channels,”she said.

“We expect to furtherinvestigate the potential of integrateduse of UV-C treatment with otherecofriendly management actions such as bioherbicides as along-term solution over traditional synthetic herbicide applications.”

New BackyardBiosecurity newsletter

VICTORIANsmall-scale property and livestock owners can now access anew resource to help navigate the world of livestock and farming.

AgricultureVictoria’s‘BackyardBiosecurity’ newsletter covers everything you need to know aboutgoodbiosecurity management, with new editions released weekly.

The Emergency Animal Disease Industry engagement programmanager,Kellyanne Harris,saidthe newsletter takes readers on ajourneythrough the most important aspects of managing asmall property and livestock.

"Backyard Biosecurity is aweekly newsletter covering everything from dealing with pests to keeping chickens healthy," Ms Harris said.

"It doesn’t matter when you subscribe, anew edition willarrive in yourinboxevery week with something new to discover."

Key topics covered in the newsletter include: pest animals, weeds, poultry,cattle, honeybees, wildlife, goats, sheep,pigs, how to create a farm map, horses, alpacas, marine pests and fire preparedness.

Readers can access additional information in each newsletter, including biosecurity planning templates for specific animals. There are also links to online training modules to gain even more biosecurity knowledge.

"This newsletter is for anyone looking to learn more about managing their farm and keeping their animals happy and healthy. Even if you’vejust got two alpacas on asmall property, havingthe rightinformation to implement good biosecurity practices on your farm not only benefitsyou,but it benefits the entire agriculture industry,” Ms Harris said.

Federation Universityresearch student,DianUdugamasuriyage is exploringifUV-C light radiation can kill aquatic weeds.

Photo:Contributed

Fodder beet:Food for thought

Katrina Brandonand Burke Brandon

ENCOURAGINGfarming education,GippsDairy and the Young Dairy NetworkGippsland (YDN) held afield daylastmonth with SouthGippsland farmers Brain Corr andMyrid Bartlett.

Young peopleinthe dairy industry attendregular educational and social events like this to further their knowledge base.

Mr Corr comes fromIreland,and moved to Gippsland in 2011 to work with other farmers.He boughttheir farm in Moyarra (near Korumburra) 18 months ago.

“I grew up on amixed-farm in Ireland, with dairy, beef, sheep, and poultry.Ialsostudied agriculture in Ireland for afew years, and Imanaged afew farms in the UK and Ireland,” Mr Corr said.

Now, Mr Corr and Ms Bartlett run 240 hectares of milking pasturesand 100 hectares of runoff

blocks for heifersand calves. The duo has 450 milking cows, which produce 380-400kg of solids per cow annually. They also reared 225 calves in the last year.

On the farm, breeding is condensed with progesterone, with 80-85 per cent of cows artificially inseminated within the first two weeks. Forty per cent of these artificially inseminated cows have heifer calves, mainly Jersey genetics. To increase numbers, 20-40per cent of the herd are reared as replacements yearly. Calves are reared on the farm and then moved to an agistment four weeks after weaning.

Having alarge amount of cattle has caused some time-consuming jobs, including putting feed out for the animals.Tocombat this issue,MrCorr told the Gippsland Times that he started to trial fodder beet, which could supplement pasture and helpkeep ahigh leveloflivestock in the works.

This means thatall Mr Corr and Ms Bartlett have to do is manage thefodder beet and move fences.

“I have wanted to do fodder beet for anumberof years, and Ihave been collectingall theinformation and watching all of the people do it," Mr Corr said.

"After the last farm, Ijust couldn’t get it across the line with something Icould do while working for somebodyelse. They thought it was abit risky."

Before doing fodderbeet,MrCorr said he roughly feeds about 1200 silage bales out in sacrifice to let paddocks dry off while pastures germinate.

According to the Dairy New Zealand website, fodder beet is acropwith high yield potential that offers many benefits for dairy farming, including adding bodycondition to cows and having less environmental impact than other feeds. Growing fodder beet requires attention to details like paddock selection, and it must be managed correctly to ensure the health of cows. Foddercrops areplanted in springwhenpaddocks aredry enough to work up. Ten per cent of the farm is sowed to chicory,which can produce anywhere from six-to-nine tonnes per hectare of summer feed. As part of the pasture improvement program, it is over-sowntoperennial rye and clover the following autumn.Aftergermination,residualchicoryisgrazed every10-14 days to suppress its competition until ryegrass gets well established. It then fades away in winter as the pasture dominates.

Last year, Mr Corr trialled 6.5 hectares of fodder beet, ahighly productive winter feed crop, with the aim of resting the perennial pastures with minimal puggingduring the wet months. It helps maintain the stocking rate over winter when milk pricesare at apremium. Beet has an expected yield of 18 tonnes per hectare (compared to apasture of 5-12 tonnes), dry matter of 22 per cent, and ahigh energy value of 12 MJME.

Atotal of 95 per cent of its feed value is in the huge bulb that sends its root deep into the soil profile. It is an expensive crop to plant, with atotal investment of $4300 per hectare, but if successful, it is half the cost ofpurchasingwheatgrain.Thesoilistilledwiththree passes and deep ripped, then sowed with aprecision planter at 100,000 seeds per hectare. GPS is used to seed in twopasses accurately, so each seed has room around it to grow to full size.

Fertilisingissignificant,with 800kilograms per hectareofDAP fertiliser at sowing, 2x150 kilogramstop-dressed, and aliquid foliar application. Preventative insecticide is applied at sowing and is needed throughout the season for mites, fleas and cockchafers.VehicletrafficstickstoGPS'tramtracks' to minimise crop damage witheach pass. Fodder beet grows through spring to autumn, then strip grazed during winter. Cows are transitioned to this new feed type for two weeks, starting with only 20-30 minutes per day, and built up to an area ration until four to fivekilogramsDM/day, comprising50per cent of their diet. It is always accompanied by high-fibre hay, straw, and mineral supplements to avoid milk fever. It is mainly destined for grazing dry cows, which are transitioned while they are still in lactation.

Mr Corr hired acontractor from Maffra to plant the crop because he could not find any contractors to plant it in South Gippsland.

Weed control is aided by planting an annual turnip or cereal crop the year before and possibly after grazing, depending on the time of year and the season. Mr Corr said that weed control for fodder beet can be pretty troublesome.

"We are quite limited in thechemicals we can use to killthe weeds because mostofthemwill kill the fodder beet," he said.

"Even ones you can use will hurt the fodder beet, so it has been troubling to control the weeds without hurting the fodder beet too much.”

AdvisingNutrien agronomist, Samual Vagg attended the day, which Jessica Russell,GippsDairy YDN coordinator, organised.

Formorefield days and events, go to gippsdairy. com.au

Triallingoffodder systems in Moyarra, near Korumburra

Photo: Burke Brandon

This school community promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Teaching Position: Yr1/2 Classroom Teacher

FIXED TERM JOB SHARE TEACHING

POSITION -(0.5FTE)

Alternating days: Week A-2 days; Week B3 days, i.e. 5days per fortnight.

Applications are invited from suitably experienced persons for the above position.

Starting date is to be negotiated, however, we are hoping as soon as possible as we enter the start of the second school term, 2024.The fixed term position will cease on January 27th ,2025.

This role is aposition under the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited Schools and Secretariat Agreement 2022.

The successful applicants will have a demonstrated commitment to Catholic education and to the safety and wellbeing of children. They will possess the skills and abilities to provide students with arich and rewarding educational experience and will embrace acollegial, team-based approach to teaching and learning.

The successful teaching applicant will hold current Victorian Institute of Teaching Registration. For further information regarding this position please email reception@sttsale.catholic.edu.au

Acover letter and resume can be forwarded to Mrs Anita Little Email: principal@sttsale.catholic.edu.au

Applications close Friday, April 26th at 4.00pm.

Please note that the interview process may begin prior to the closing date. If asuitable applicant is found, the role may close early. We would encourage applications to be received as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Nursing Teacher

● 8.30am-4.30pm Wed, Thu and Fri (22.8 hours per week)

● Ongoing permanent role with no shift work

● Hourly rate from $50.43 -$54.47 (wage rates currently under negotiation)

● Flexible hybrid working arrangements

● Financial support and time allocation to gain Certificate IV TAE

for their Australian Operations. Reporting to the Financial Manager, you will play acrucialrole within the financial department of the business. In this position you will be responsible for ensuring all financial reporting and taxation obligations of Superior Energy Service Australia Pty. Ltd. are met. This position is aFull-time Monday to Friday office-based role, with possibility of arelocation allowance, this position is open to candidates who have full working rights in Australia.

The Key responsibilities for this role include but are not limited to:

● Assistance to external auditors in the preparation and lodgment of annual tax returns within Australia, New Zealand, or other regions where Australia performs work.

● Undertake monthly corporate reporting in US GAAP.

● Calculation and lodgment of indirect taxation obligations including payroll tax, fringe benefits tax and GST.

● Engage with auditors to identify /agree technical accounting treatment and the preparation of accounting position papers.

● Monthly reconciliation of all general ledger accounts.

● Assist the Financial Manager to ensure the implementation of robust internal controls and the identification of key financial risks to the company.

● Preparation and posting of all journals as necessary.

● Demonstrate the ability to liaise with external agencies and consultants, such as external auditors, taxation accountants and bank managers.

● Engage with corporate accounting and taxation departments as required.

● Demonstrate an understanding of International Financial Reporting Standards(IFRS) requirements and guidelines.

● Ensure compliance with statutory, government policy and ethical standards.

● Oversee and Liaise with the general bookkeeping responsibilities, including accounts payable and receivable activities ensuring that payments are made ontime.

● Other duties asoutlined in the roles Position Description.

To be successful /considered for this position you will have the following skills & experience:

● Recognised university degree, which is required to become amember of a professional body.

● Aminimum of (8) eight years of working experience.

● Professional accounting qualification (CA, CPA or working towards your post- graduate qualification)

● Strong organizational skills with astrong ability to prioritise and multi-task.

● Ability to adhere to and meet deadlines.

● Excellent communication skills.

● Ability to maintain ahighdegree of confidentiality, initiative and personal motivation.

● Working knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) requirements and guidelines.

● Demonstrated ability to liaise with external agencies and consultants, such as external auditors, taxation accountants and bank managers.

● Safety Conscious.

● Work autonomously and work well in ateam environment.

● Innovative mindset and personal drive.

● Ability to work under minimal direction / supervision.

● Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) applicable in Australia /US. Superior Energy Services places asignificant emphasis on safety and diversity, living up to our shared core Values. Superior maintains a highly diverse workforce.

We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employerthat does not discriminate against employee's or job applicants.

Please submit your covering letter, addressing the relevant criteria, along with your CV to SESAHR@superiorenergy.com by Friday 3rd May 2024.

● Based at our Bairnsdale Campus (relocation expenses covered up to $5k)

● Job Reference No. 2442.

About Us

As the 2023 Large Training Provider of the Year(Victorian Training Awards), TAFE Gippsland is setting the benchmark for the delivery of accessible, quality vocational education and training in the region. We have campuses throughout eastern Victoria, from Warragul and Leongatha to Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance, offering adiverserange of training programs.

About the Role TAFE Gippsland is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated and experienced Registered Nurse to join an innovative and supportive teaching team of highly experienced professional nurses. In the role of Nursing Teacher you will be responsible for developing up to date industry course materials, delivering high quality training and assessment, and handling educational administration tasks.

As aNursing Teacher you will be required to undertake the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122). The successful applicant will receive financial support and paid study time within rostered weekly hours to complete the teaching qualification, along with one-on-one mentoring support.

For this teaching role there is arequirement to attend the work location for up to 18 hours per week, up to 42 weeks ayear, with the balance of hours worked flexibly from home.

About you You have apassion for sharing your knowledge, skills and experience with others, and for maintaining your own professional practice. You have agenuine commitment to shaping the nursing workforce of tomorrow and for inspiring students to achieve their best. You are passionate about influencing the quality of individuals embarking on their nursing career and for ensuring the demands and expectations of industry are met. You have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to establish collaborative relationships with students and colleagues.

Mandatory Requirements

● Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent

● Registered Nurse with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

● Current industry knowledge and experience

How to apply To apply for this position please visit the TAFE Gippsland website: www.tafegippsland.edu.au /about/careers. For aconfidential discussion regarding this opportunity, please contact Heather Redmond, Program Manager Nursing &First Aid on 0437 302 767. For assistance with the application process please contact Jenna Langley from our People &Culture Team on0459 023 510. Applications close 2pm on Friday 3rd May 2024.

LEES John (Bigbird). Passed away peacefully 20-04-2024. Our Valued longtime friend and work mate. We enjoyed your regular visits and chats about fixing everything from Steam Engines, Turbines and Lawn mowers.

Loving thoughts to Heather, Glenn and Jess, Matthew, and Jamie.

We will miss you mate.

-Colin and Pam McGrath and Family

LEES, John Stevenson. So sad to lose our friend and neighbour of more than 40 years.

DA SILVEIRA. Afuneral service for Mr Kevin Francis da Silveira of Sandy Point WAS HELD on Thursday (April 18, 2024).

Deepest sympathy to Heather, Glenn and Jess, Matthew and Jamie. He was agreat bloke and will be sadly missed. See ya John. RIP Robert, Wendy, Zoe and Hayden. LEES. For funeral arrangements for Mr John Stevenson Lees, please visit our website or contact:-

MCPHERSON, (nee Mulley) Yvonne Joan 11/10/1940 -16/4/2024

Passed away April 16th 2024 at Sale Hospital aged 83 years. Cherished wife of Arthur for 64 years. Mother of the century to Donna and Peter and daughter- in-law Claudia. Adoredgrandmother (Gran) of Tahlia and Ray; Pablo and Eliza Great grandmother (Gran) of Stella, Evie and Max Now at Peace.

MCPHERSON, (nee Mulley) The funeral service for Mrs Yvonne Joan McPherson will be held at St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral, Cunninghame Street Sale at 1pm TOMORROW Wednesday (April 24, 2024), followed by private cremation.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Council.

RAWNSON, Marie. We would like to thank everyone whosent flowers, cards and messages. Thanks to Ambulance Victoria, Sale Hospital and Emma Barber for her kindness and beautiful service. Special thanks to Bradley Lett and staff at Letts Funeral Directors for their support. Please accept this as our sincere thanks to everyone. Maxine, Brian, Bronwyn and families.

FOOTBALL NETBALL EAST GIPPSLAND

Boisdale-Briagolong too good for Swans

Paul Nichols

IT'S arivalry that goes back decades, and would be up there with the biggest in Gippsland football.

With Stratford and Boisdale-Briagolong’s senior sides both having the expected big wins in Round1ofthe East Gippsland Football-Netball League, there was an air of excitement and competitiveness at the JA Boyd Recreation Reserve last Saturday.

As the saying goes, there can only be one winner,and with two comprehensive victoriesinasmanyweeks, the Bombers are fast cementing themselves as genuine premiership contenders,seeking redemption from their Grand Final appearances in 2023 and 2019.

Stratford unveiled their new social rooms at the weekend, and mostspectators were hoping for atight tussle that fell the home sides way.

When the Bombers led by only four points after the first break, it appeared that hope wouldcontinue. However, that was as close as the Swans would end up getting, as BoisdaleBriagalong came out after the first break and kicked 3.5 (23) to 1.2 (8).

TheBombers continued the football they playedlastyear withtheireliteballuse, and adisciplined team-oriented style of play, capitalising on Stratford’s mistakes. Boisdale-Briagolongcame out after the main breakensuringthe gamewas over, as they mustered alead of 31 points in the thirdquarter, before finishing the afternoon

as 34-point victors, 13.12 (90) to 8.8 (56).

It’s no secretBombers coach Sam Bedggood recruited well in the offseason, and he’ll be delighted that one of the ins,a previous junior for the club, Jackson Glenane has found themselves leading the best after two games. Joined in the best for the winners was Kelvin Porter, Matt Wilkinson in game 100 for the club, Callan Egan, Jesse Bedggood and Jim Reeves.

For Stratford, while the loss at home against their rivals will hurt, there’s still plenty of football left in the season.

Coach Gavin O’Shannasy tookpositives from the encounter stating, “we learnt as a group what will be required to be competitive against one of the top teams”.

Alex Morcom kicked two goals and was named in the best, after returning from Canada last year where he won the league best-and-fairestinthe overseas league. Joining him as the most prominent Swans was Jack Bacon, Jack Rietschel,Roydon Fulton and Brodey Reid.

Sometimes,footballplays second to the stories of personal fightback, and it was very pleasing to see Jesse Broadbent back in the Stratfordseniors aftera seasonout last year following aserious health scare.

THERE was no surprise in other results around the league.

OrbostSnowy Rovers weretoo good for Lakes Entrance, whileWyYungdemolished Lindenow by 98 pointsand Lucknow defeated Paynesville by 69 points.

AlexMorcom bagged two goals and was named among Stratford’s best players in the Swans loss to rivals BoisdaleBriagolong. Morcom looked to be playing in some pain, judging by howheavily strapped hisshoulder was.

Bombersclaim bragging rights

ErikaAllen

5.5 8.5 9.7 (61)

STRATFORD1.3 1.6 4.7 8.8 (56)

GOALS: Boisdale Briagolong:TThreadgold 3DPratt 3DGrinstead-Jones RPeel C

Hennig

(43)

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG'S senior netball teamsstole bragging rights fromStratford in the anticipated Round 2 Battle of the Avon in the East GippslandFootball-Netball League on Saturday.

The Bombers AGrade side triumphed 69-43,their BGrade won 43-24 and CGrade clinched victory 31-24, while DGrade had more than a30-point victory (50-30) to celebrate, with the match also marking Millie Handley's 100th game for the club.

Boisdale-Briagolong won the 17 and Under game, 44-17, and Stratford was victorious in the 15 and Under game, 31-20.

AMID asea of red andwhite,marking the StratfordFootball Netball Club's inaugural home game of the 2024 season,the Bombers' AGrade netball side cruised to aperfect start, shootingfour consecutive goals beforethe Swanshit the scoreboard.

Elly Weatherley was apivotal force in the Bombers' unyielding defence.

Keen eyes, precise anticipation and sticky hands made Weatherley aforce. This, coupled with her tenacity,determinationand an evident joy for the game -asreflected in the ever-present smile -underscore why she's excellingatsuch ahigh level early in the season.

At the other end, Elly's sister, Rachel Weatherley, shot 10 of the Bombers'16 first-quarter goals, giving them anine-point lead at the endofthe first term.

The Swans made abetter startinthe second quarter, as Skylar White, who proved indispensable to Stratford, began to hold herown against EllyWeatherlyin goals.Often, she faced Elly Weatherly or Emmerson Connoly in aerialbattles, working hard to position herself under lobs into the semi-circle.

While the Bombers appeared to have the ball on astring, as often happens in netball, momentum can change on adime.

Afleet of Swans goals saw them claw back the nine-point quarter-time deficit to three as

tension built,two as they dominated the first half of the second quarter, and one as they lookedlikethey would surpass the Bombers whohad ledfromthe first whistle.

The club's postcoderivalry may have lifted the standard of play in the second half.

Along with White, Paris Toner's adaptability to move from ademanding goal-shooting position intoStratford'smidcourt was fundamental in building the Swans' momentum.

Toner was like amagnettothe ball, often finding herself in possession or in hot pursuit of it whenever one glanced up. If the ball wasn't in her grasp, it was likely because she was momentarily off the court resting before re-entering the fray.

The game'smomentum was disrupted when the blood rule was invoked after Elly Weatherley took atumble on the asphalt- it was acase of groundhog day for the defender, who suffered asimilar fate in Round 1.

After aquick interchange, play resumed, and the Bombers kept their noses in front.

By halftime, Boisdale-Briagolong had reinstated astrong seven-point lead.

It was not the cleanest of games, with turnovers rife throughout. Nonetheless, it made for fast-paced and tenseviewing,highlighting that both clubsknuckled down in preseason training. Particular feats of athleticism from the likes of Boisdale-Briagolong's mid-court 'quiet achiever', Ash McDonough, who played all four quarters, had enough in the tank to sprint after the ball, chasing intercept after intercept.

Having rested playing-coach and one of the few 2023 premiership players that makesup this year's AGrade side,Stratford's Ashlea Higgins took to the court in the fourth quarter, assisting the Swans in the goals.

However, Boisdale-Briagolong seemed to run away from Stratford in the second half.

Rachel Weatherley shot 21 goals in the third quarter, her final tally making up 45 per cent of the Bombers total goals for the game.

Elly Weatherleyand Emily Porter were namedthe Bombers' best-on-court, and Skylar White and Paris Toner were nominated the Swans' most valuable players.

IN asimilar fashion,the Swans were jumped early by an energetic BGrade Bombers outfit, as Taryn Cunningham intercepted Stratford's first centre pass. Steelingtheir nerves,Stratford turned it aroundand capitalised, avoiding afaststart by the Bombers, who led by amanageable four-point margin into the second quarter.

Carryingher goal-shootingdominancefrom Round 1into Saturday's game, Bombers' goal shooter, Zara Flynn was forced to work hard to protect the ball from Swans’defenders, Catherine Boyd and Renee Gross, who stuck on their players like glue.

Stratford's Shauna Anderson's smooth shooting style personified aswan's elegance at the other end of the court.

Staving off the Swans, Boisdale-Briagolong led by eight goals at halftime.

Despite the Swans reducing the margin to six points at the fourth quarter changeover and the Bombers losing Taryn Cunnigham to an ankle injury in thelast, BoisdaleBriagolong comfortably triumphed, 43-24.

East Gippsland Netball Scoreboard:

AGrade:Boisdale-Briagolong 69 def Stratford43, Lucknow 72 def Paynesville17, ONR 45 def Lakes Entrance 36.

BGrade:Lakes Entrance 39 def OSR 38, Lucknow 65 def Paynesville14, BoisdaleBriagolong 43 def Stratford24

CGrade:Lakes Entrance 33 def OSR 26, Lucknow 61 def Paynesville16, BoisdaleBriagolong 31 def Stratford24.

DGrade:Lakes Entrance 34 def OSR 20, Lucknow 32 def Paynesville13, BoisdaleBriagolong 50 def Stratford20.

17s:Lakes Entrance 42 def ONR 32, Boisdale-Briagolong 44 def Stratford17, Lucknow 58 def Paynesville4

15s:Stratford31def Boisdale-Briagolong

Photo: Erika Allen

LEONGATHA 4.2 6.8 14.12 16.16 (112)

MAFFRA0.1 0.3 0.3 1.4 (10)

GOALS: Leongatha:T Brill 6J Ginnane

GOALS:Moe:SCurtis2 WHester2JMorrowLDurkin TMorrowL Weir CWood Sale: Z Russell HPottsT Dobson TMiller SFyfe. BEST: Moe:L Weir AWilson JRiddleJMorrowW

Hester WLuke Sale: BJones JSweeney SRunciman SFyfeBHallT Beattie

MORWELL 4.3 9.5 14.8 17.12 (114)

WONTHAGGI 1.1 2.1 4.1 4.1 (25)

GOALS:Morwell:E Smith 5GMentha3 BWilliams 2EPorigneaux CBaileyS Gissara L Patterson JSeymour JCarnes

Liam Durkin

AS Nathan Buckley said when he received his first handball from Mason Cox -“we have some work to do.”

Adeveloping Maffra realised just how far they have to go beforethey start competing withthe best in the business, losing to Leongatha by more than 100 points.

The Eagles didn’t kick agoal until the last quarter at home, on their way to a16.16(112) to 1.4 (10) hiding.

In what are becoming unwanted records in the lasttwo seasons, Maffraentered another in the lowest score category at the weekend.

Their 1.4(10)was the equal second-lowest in Gippsland League history for aRound 3 game, just ‘beating’ their own record of 1.2 (8) registered against Morwell in 1960.

Givengrounds backthen were generally

quagmires, for the Eagles to have only five scoring shots during amatch played in 21st centuryApril only served to demonstrate the sheer gulf between the two sides.

Maffra had two kids who played in the thirds last year named best on at the weekend. Leongatha had Luke Bowman play in the reserves -the same Luke Bowman who played as astarting midfielder in asenior premiership for the Parrots last year.

While most teams appeartobethin at the moment in terms of playing stocks -the absolute opposite applies for Leongatha.

Onlythreerounds in, and it is already looming as acase of Leongatha then daylight. Tallin Brill kicked six goals in the win, and was backed-upbyfamiliar facesTom Marriott, Sam Forrester and Cade Maskell, alongwith Jake van der Plight and Jack Hume. Tom Scott and Jett Killoran battled on

for Maffra, as did Henry Anderson, Danny Butcher, Zac Felsbourg and Ashton Wright.

Just how long this rebuild takes for Maffra remains to be seen, although now might be as good atimeasever to go throughalist turnover given the general compatibility of most teams (Leongatha aside).

With alarge part of Leongatha’s recent success due to their ability to entice the best players fromneighbouring minor league clubs, the Eagles may look to do the same.

Really, as arecruiter, your job for this season is alreadyover, so thereismeritin looking to 2025 even this far out.

There’ssome pretty good youngplayers currently running around just down the road from Maffra in Heyfield.

If the Kangaroos happen to snag the North Gippy flag this year, there might just be some players interested in anew challenge.

Liam Durkin

WELL that was boring.

Low scoring grinds played out in Round 3 of the Gippsland League, as only two teams went past or got near the ton. Not wanting to sound alarmist, but alot of clubs are looking light on for numbers as it stands.

THERE’S nothing muchpowerful coming out of Wonthaggi at the moment.

The Power appear ashell of the team that won 16 games on the trot last season, and have now lost as many games in the first three rounds as they did for the whole season last year.

Who honestly could have predicted this?

While list changes over preseason are inevitable, Wonthaggi still looked to have the nucleus of avery strong side judging by the ins and outs. Add in the fact the Power became the first Gippsland League club to appoint ageneralmanager, things were looking relatively promising.

Fast forward one month into the season, and Wonthaggi's general manager,Brendan Knight suddenly has an enormous task on his hands to recalibrate andrealign.

Issues appear not just confined to the senior team either. Wonthaggi has no under 18s, while the name Rod Tack made an appearance on the reserves team sheet at the weekend.

Tack’sgoal-kicking feats are legendary, but considering he was agenuine ‘bear in the square’ type forward 10 years ago and looked well into his 40s then, he now might not be too far off getting discount coffees at the drive-thru.

All this talk of Wonthaggi is perhaps doing adisservice to Morwell, who chalkeduptheir first win of 2024 at the weekend.

It was abig day for the Tigers as aclub, who celebrated netballer Courtney Garth becoming the first person to play 250 AGrade games in the yellow and black.

The footballingTigers camefrombehind at three quarter time to win 9.8 (62) to 7.8 (50), bringingthe points back home aftermaking the trip over the hill.

Thevisitorstook anine-point lead into the main break, butonly added one goal in the thirdtoensure something of agrandstand finish.

In the end however, Morwell found the majors they needed, and were helped mostly by the efforts of Brandon McAuliffe, Aidan Quigley, Archie Grant, Sam Walsh, Jackson Burr and Brandon Bailey. Tigersplaying-coach Boyd Bailey is currently confined to being just acoach, while others missing in action are Josh Galea and Ryan Hearn.

While the situation may allow Bailey (now into his second year) to develop as acoach, he would surely prefer to be out on the field.

For ayoung team like Morwell, to have a coach practicing what they preach usually leads to greater cohesion within the group.

To play Devil’s Advocate though, if Morwell is onlybeating Wonthaggi by two goals given the Power’s clear struggles at present where exactly does that leave the Tigers?

Fergus O’Connor, JoshSchulz, Ethan Dickison, JoshBates, JakebThomas and Hunter Tiziani were voted best for Wonthaggi.

VICTORY came at acost for Drouin.

While the Hawks won 7.9 (51) to 5.9 (39) against Warragul at Western Park, there wasa number of casualties by the end in the visitors rooms.

The traditionalSunday matchdrew a reported crowd of more than 1000 people, and saw the Hawks clawback from agoalless first half.

Drouin trailed at every change, but led whenitmatteredmost,kicking sevengoals to one after the main break to win by 12 points.

In what turned outtobethe proverbial game of twohalves, Warragul looked relatively home and hosed at halftime after registering 4.4 (28) to just five behinds.

However,the Guls were to add just 1.5 (11) from thereon, to virtually gift the four points to their biggest rival.

Drouin’s win wasmadeall the more meritorious by the fact playingassistant, and arguably best player, Ed Morris, came off in the thirdquarterwith ashoulder injury and did not return.

Morris was the first of four suspected injuries for the Hawks. Will Papley suffered a huge hit minutes before the end of the game, while teammates Joe Collins and Mitch Cotter collided literally on the final siren.

The pair ran full tiltfromoppositedirections, and clashed on the Hawks’ half forward flank in amanic dash for the ball.

Acollected gaspwas heardaround the ground, as Collins and Cotter laid on the turf in the arms of trainers from both clubs.

The pair were surrounded by their Drouin teammates, whose emotions quickly went from euphoria to concern on the final siren once they realised two troops were off their feet.

Those familiar with the clash between Melbourne’s Frank Adamsand Collingwood’s Des Healey in the 1955 Grand Final may get asense of just how sickening the incident was.

Healey won the Copeland Trophyasthe Magpies best player that season -but never playedleaguefootball again, sayinghe couldn’t stand asimilar blow.

Adamsmeanwhile played what was describedasthe “shortest Grand Final ever”, aftersprintingonto thegroundasa reserve, only to get knocked out less than 10 seconds later.

Collins and Cotter will likelyhave to spend the next 21 days on the sidelines as per new concussion protocol.

The Hawks have Morwell this week, who will surely be monitoring the opposition team selection closely come Thursday.

and Bairnsdale had the bye, havingplayed each other in

Zaida Glibanovic

LEONGATHA was too good for Maffra, winning 62-25 in Round3ofthe Gippsland League netball season at the weekend.

The Parrots took control from the start, leading 23-1 in the firstquarter.

Maffra, despite their efforts, couldn’t matchthe intensity of the scores against them until halftime

After the Eagles’ slow start, they finally got into the grooveofthings in the second half but the damage was done.

Maffra’s Kirby Boyle, Jasmyn Hennigand Jana Hennig weregood despitethe loss, giving the side some positive signs for the future.

Leongatha defender Alicia Marshman stood out, with Kate Brown and ex-MirbooNorth shooter, Mikaeli Hilliar also in the best.

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE -ROUND 3

AGRADE - Leongatha 62 dMaffra 25, Morwell 43 dWonthaggi 34, Moe 73 dSale 21,Warragul 50 dDrouin 47,Bairnsdale, Traralgon -BYE.

BGRADE - Leongatha 58 dMaffra28, Morwell 42 drew Wonthaggi 42, Moe 54 dSale 37,Drouin 61 dWarragul 45, Bairnsdale, Traralgon -BYE.

CGRADE- Maffra 42 dLeongatha 28, Morwell39 dWonthaggi 27,Moe 38 dSale 14,Drouin 56 d Warragul 31,Bairnsdale, Traralgon -BYE. 17 ANDUNDER - Leongatha 47 dMaffra 26, Wonthaggi 38 dMorwell 23, Sale 36 dMoe 22

Drouin57dWarragul18, Bairnsdale, Traralgon -BYE. 15 ANDUNDER - Maffra 48 dLeongatha 28, Wonthaggi 26 dMorwell 25, Sale 38 dMoe 23

Drouin 44 dWarragul 33, Bairnsdale, Traralgon -BYE. 13 AND UNDER - Leongatha 37 dMaffra 30, Wonthaggi 29 dMorwell 15,Moe 32 dSale 22, Drouin 35 dWarragul 8, Bairnsdale, Traralgon -BYE.

NORTH GIPPSLAND -ROUND 2

AGRADE - Churchill 51 dGormandale23, Cowwarr 46 dYYN 20, Heyfield 46 dGlengarry 33, TTU41d

Rosedale 40, Sale City 49 dWoodside, Yarram -BYE.

BGRADE - Gormandale 56 dChurchill 38, YYN

46 dCowwarr 37,Heyfield 58 dGlengarry 32, Rosedale 48 dTTU 37,Sale City 46 dWoodside 26, Yarram -BYE.

CGRADE - Churchill 40 dGormandale26, YYN 32 dCowwarr 21,Glengarry 33 dHeyfield 26, TTU 52 dRosedale 30, Woodside 37 dSale City 30, Yarram -BYE.

DGRADE - Churchill 31 dGormandale 24, YYN 41 dCowwarr 30, Heyfield33dGlengarry

It was atough day at the office for Sale, losing to Moe 73-21.

Coming up against the reigning premier at Ted Summerton Reserve, the Magpies had to dig deep to register any score against the Lions.

Sale’s Kristy Glover, Ashleigh Keefe and Tash Bedggood were influential for the visitors, but despite their efforts, the side could not stop the shooting strength of Ramayer Gourley and Georgia Moody.

Oliva Barnett hadthe defenceunder control against her old side,making it extremely hard for Sale to score.

In other games, Morwell defeated Wonthaggi 43-34.

The Western Derby might have been the match of the round, with Warragul narrowly winning over Drouin 50-47.

Both Bairnsdale and Traralgon had the bye.

WHAT aweekend of netball in Round 2ofthe North Gippsland season.

Sale City really showed their bite when they defeatedreigning premier,Woodside on their home deck, 49-40.

The Bulldogs’ young guns,Ciara Fitt and Indigo Waugh, caused headaches for the Wildcats,

facilitating scores time and time again.

In ashockturn of events,the Wildcatshave started the year 0-2, and will quickly need to get their season back on track.

In another surprise, Rosedale went down to TTU 41-40.

The Bombers have certainly had ahigh-flying start to the season, defeating Woodside and now Rosedale.

With the GippslandLeague on its bye,itis understoodTraralgon’s Montanna Styles came to TTU to fill in in the mid-court.

Rosedale had control of the game going into the last quarter, leading 36-30. TTU came flying home though, scoring 11-4 in the last 15 minutes to pitch thewin.

Heyfield are another team showing their class this year, and defeated Glengarry 46-33. Best on court for the Kangaroos was Sammy Beha. Cowwarr registered their first win of the season, defeatingYallourn Yallourn North 46-30, and Churchill got the job done against Gormandale 51-23.

Yarram had the bye.

East Gippsland FNL Report -Page25

Sale United are also looking for selectors, especially from the early years when the club was known as Sale City Soccer Club, to pick players for its Senior Men’s and Women’s ‘Teams Of The Decade’.

If anyoneisinterested, they can emailtheir details to Darleen Richardson via gric2456@gmail.com

Eagles soar at statechampionships

MAFFRA Eagles Under 14 Boys claimed glory at theBasketball Victoria Country Championships in Mildurarecently.

The tournament (held over the first weekend and secondweek of April) drew representative squad teams from across country Victoria, vying to be crowned the best regional team in the state. Theyoung Eagles strung three consecutive wins together on Day 1, comfortably defeating Swan Hill, Bellarine and Warracknabeal.

Awin overfellow Gippslanders, Korumburra on Day 2, followed by aloss to Mildura,put Maffra under pressure, needing awin against Warrnambool to remain in the contest for taking out the title.

Maffracame out victorsbysix points, setting themselves up for finals.

Asudden death quarterfinal against the highlyfavoured Bendigo to begin Day 3appearedterminal when the Braves mounted a12-point lead in the third quarter.

The combined efforts of Maffra’s RyderGieschen, Kai Boyle and Ace Burgielswiftly brought the Eagles back into the box seat, before securing a 50-47 victory to advance through to the semi-final.

Maffra coach, Kelly Burgiel had achancetorotate through the team in the semi-final, as the Eagles shot out to a23-5lead in the second quarter against Pakenham.

A55-21 win ensured aGrandFinal berth against Mildura, the same team this squad had defeated two years earlier at the Under 12 championships to secure the title.

Mildura’s win over Maffra on Day 2gave the Heatplenty of confidence,backedbythe parochial home crowd.

While dozens of Maffra supporters had made the long journey to the Mallee, hundreds more tuned in via the online live stream.

Aftera tight first period, the Eagles spread their wingstobuild an eight-point leadinthe second quarter.

The Heat took the ascendency out of halftime, but the Eagles, playing beyond their years, accumulated anine-point lead with six minutes left.

Back-to-back titles briefly seemed inevitable, but afinal swing from Mildura brought the margin backtojust two points with90seconds remaining Acrucial bucket from Hugo Macpherson in the dyingstages, and apair of free throws from Kai Boyle, iced the win and the celebrations begun.

Maffra’s 49-43 victory confirmed the team’s place as the best team in country Victoria, etching this team in the club’s remarkable history of success.

“It’s the most important tournament on the calendar for junior country basketballers every year,” Maffra Basketball President, James Whelan said.

“This is aspecialgroup of young boys, bothon and off the court.

“We might not have the population of the bigger townslikeBallarat, Geelong and Traralgon,but that never deterred the boys’ determination.

“Theseboyshavedone ourcluband town

extremely proud, theyare just the fifth Maffrateam to win aDivision 1country title, and the first to go back-to-back.”

As Country Champions, the Eagles will now be invited to the National Junior Classic to take on 16 teamsfrom acrossMetropolitan Melbourne, New South Wales and South Australia during the June schoolholidays.

An added benefit of winning the Under 14s championships is the invitationtocompete in the Basketball Australia NationalClub Championships,held in Melbourne later this year.

It’s the third time Maffra has won aplace in the tournament (2008 boys and 2011 girls), which pits the 24 best teams from across the nation against each other for national glory.

“We lookforward to supporting themoverthe next six months in their journey, as they head to the National Classic in June and Australian Championships in September,” Whelan said.

Maffra won the Under 14 Boys Basketball Victoria Country Championships earlier this month.

Photos: Tash Dowsett Cue celebrations as Maffra wins thestate title.

YALLOURN NORTH 4.3 8.7 12.8 17.10 (112)

COWWARR 0.00.0 0.2 0.2 (2)

GOALS: YYN:D Keyhoe 6OBudge 2JRedman2AAnderson 2J Hall SSimpson

Woodside the team to beat

TomHayes

SOME big hitters are on the board after Round 2ofthe North Gippsland FootballNetball League. Round 1threw some questions out there, and for the most part, a lot of those seem to have found an answer.

The question of Traralgon Tyers United and their premiership defence was under fire after their Round 1collapse to Woodside, while Churchill appeared to find their feet followingdefeat in the opening round.

Yallourn Yallourn North were yet to be tested, but their season is well and truly underway, starting their season off with four points in agame full of meaning.

I’msuremanymorechapters willunfold as the season unravels, but for now, some normality has beenrestored in the NGFNL.

THIS came downtothe wire.

Woodside kept their perfect record intact, only just, edging past Sale Cityathome 10.13 (73) to 10.6 (66).

Sale City simply did notlet up, and despite an earlydeficit, climbed back into the match and nearly took it for themselves.

The Wildcats looked confidentfromthe offing, up by 25 points at the first change. Despitescoring goingthe other way in the second term,they held onto a15point lead at themain break.

The game was then thrownupinthe air, as SaleCity hit the lead in the third quarter, kicking four goals to one.

Now up by apoint with aquarter to play, the question begged if the Bulldogs were up to the task.

Amomentum shift to that of the home team saved them in the final quarter however, as the Wildcats kicked three goals to two, to edge past the Bulldogs and win by seven points in agrittyaffair.

Woodside was lifted by Thomas King, Ben Johnson, Adam Janssen, Jeremy and Josh Morgan, and Mark Collison.

Sale City were led by Jaxsyn Whitehill, Kane Martin,Flynn Read (three goals), LachlanCarman, Abe Schubackand Troy Carstairs.

The Bulldogs showed plentyofpromise, something not many teams have been able to do in defeat while travelling to Woodside in years of late.

Sale City's new recruits have been ashining light forthem, and if they can continue to havethis type of success, even in aloss, they maygoalong way.

It will be interesting to seewhether this was aone-off performance,orifthe Bulldogs can truly be acontender.

THE Bombers are off the mark.

Much was said about TTU and their performance against Woodside in Round 1, amidst their change up top and the departure of key players.

TTUwas outtoright their wrongs when they travelled to RosedaleRecreational Reserve to take on the Blues at the weekend.

As they warmed intotheir grove, TTU quickly found their feet as they pushed out to adominant 19.16 (130) to 9.5 (59) win over the Blues.

The Blues were notorious for their strong starts last season, and had afew teams searching for answers in the early parts.

Hostingthe Bombers, the Blues kept within reaching distance in the opening quarter, onlya kick behind, going fivepointsdown into the fist change.

But, muchlike last year, Rosedalefound themselves chasing the better side, as TTU put them to the sword.

With the flick of aswitch, the Bombers piled on the pressure, stretching out to afive-goal halftime lead.

And soonafterthe main break, Rosedale quicklyrealised what they were truly up against -ananimalofateam. Perhaps more defensive-minded, the Blues keptTTU to three third-quartergoals,but they could only register one major themselves as the margin soared over 40 points.

TTU broke the shackles in the final term, and perhaps becamealittlepatchydefensively. Nonetheless, TTU kicked seven goals to three to see themselves onto the winner’s list by 71 points.

Captain Jye Nielson led the charge alongside Caleb Michie on the scoreboard with four majors each for the Bombers. Rosedale was left to depend on young gun, Lachlan Speairs, who kicked four goals as well.

Riley Atlee, Blake Safstrom, Speairs, Jake Pawley, James Edney and Riley Boyle were admirable in defeat for the hosts.

Michael and James Jacobsen were highlightsfor the Bombers,aswereNielson, Frazar Brouns, Flynn Shields and Guy Sinclair

Despite the large margin, there were some lasting positives for the Blues.

Last year, TTU annihilated Rosedale in bothoftheir meetings. First was a182-point wininRound 4, whenRosedalewere mostly stillbuilding their season.

Later in the season, they met again in Rosedale, and TTU still managed aconvincing 82-point win. If anything, the Blues have shaken off their early-season woes.

THERE was abit riding on this match.

YYN started their season on the right track with acomfortable 41-point win over Cowwarr, 16.12 (108) to 10.7 (67).

The Jets started the season with the bye, enabling them to haveanother weeks preparation. Although the win appearedcomfortable by the final siren, the Saints put up afight on their home deck.

Onlyfivepoints separated the two sides at quarter time, yet the Jets had majority of the opportunities in front of goal, kicking 3.5 (23) to three-straight.

In ahigh-scoring second stanza, Cowwarr gave YYN afright, outscoring them to win the term, yet they still trailed by apoint at the main break, despite having more goals on the board.

But that was all she wrote for the Saints, as the tenacity of YYN kicked on in the second half, anditwas too much for Cowwarr to keep up with.

Asix-goal to one third term put the Jets up by five goals, still within reaching distance, yet it was going to be ahard ask from there.

Valiant in defeat, Cowwarr remained competitive, kicked two majors in the final term, but the Jets managed four to blow the lead out past 40 points at the final siren.

Ex-YYN lad Keenan Hughes kicked four goals againsthis old mob, and was wellassisted by vice-captain Kyle Stamers, who kicked four himself.

But for the victors, Dean MacDonald kicked six.

Haydn Hector,Ben Coffrey, Hughes, Stamers, Alex Saunders and the young Rhys Luxford were best for the Saints.

Dylan Bath, MacDonald, Darcy Shellcot, Jai Massese, Lucas Fry and Ben Morrow got YYN over the line.

Againstatop opponent,Cowwarr don’t seem to have the resources to take them all the way, but this may hold them in good stead against the bottom half teams. JUST what was expected.

Heyfield did it easy against Glengarry when they visited FredKing Oval at the weekend, nevergiving the Magpies asniff throughout the two hours of play.

Astatement 87-point win reminded the rest of the competition just how much of the threat the Kangaroos may be this season.

Heyfield went from strengthtostrength throughout the game, growing their lead at every change to dismantlethe Magpies, bringingthem back down to earthafter their opening round victory.

A20-point quarter time lead set the tone for the rest of the match, which only got more enjoyable for the boys in blue and white.

Despiteahigh-scoring second quarter, the majority of thatscoring wasdonebythe visitors, who piled on eight goals to Glengarry’s four to stretch their lead out to 47 points.

After the main break, it remained much the same, as Heyfield not only dictated the pace of the game, but also the scoreboard, to eventually win 22.19 (151) to 10.4 (64).

Another four goals in the third term put the game well beyond reach, even with a quarter to play, the Kangaroos were up by more than 10 goals.

It got ugly towards the end, but not for Heyfield, who will be pleased with another four-quarter effort, and another four points on the board as they start their season with awin-loss record of 2-0.

Jet Hodges and Spencer Poultonkicked seven goals between them for the Magpies, but it was evidently not enough.

Finn Stephensonkicked five for the Kangaroos,while TysonBirss kicked four among the plethora of goalkickers.

Callum Mitchell,Poulton, JackBurgess, Ben Truin, Jesse Lee and Thomas Harris did their best for the Magpies in defeat.

Nicholas Dinsdale, Stephenson, Liam Heasley, Kail Hole, Birss and James Conway stood out for the victors.

BACK on track.

Churchill guided their season back on the right path after asteaming 147-point thrashing of Gormandale at Gaskin Park.

Some confidence wasneeded to be injected back into the Cougar side, who slipped up against Yarram in the opening week.

Gormandale was up to the task in the opening stages, keepingthe marginbelow five goals at the first break, but that was just about all they could do.

Churchill were back to their best, blasting nine goals to one in the second term to put the game to bed. A79-point halftime lead was just about enough to say the four points was theirs.

The scoring slowed down in the thirdterm, but the margin continued to grow as the Cougars edged past the triple-digit margin by three quarter time.

Aconfident finish saw the Cougars finish strong, closing the game out in style to walk away 23.22 (160) to 2.1 (13) victors, disallowing the Tigers to score in the second half.

Ben Kearns was the standout in front of goal with 11 majors, but it was Chris ‘Squid’ Williamswho earnt best-on-groundhonours.

Vice captains Ryan Lowrie, Ben Skinner and Nick Celima were also in the best, alongside veteran Brendan Holt.

For Gormandale, MattAnderson, Chris Potalej, TrentBaldwin, Jet Krimhand, Tristan Salerno and Tyler Capes were the best.

There is no doubt that Churchill will want to usethis momentum as they head into a massive clash against Heyfield.Whilefor the Tigers, they will continue to search for their first win of the season.

YARRAM had the bye.

Woodside forwardDaniel Farmerkicked two goals in his side’s gutsy winover Sale City at the weekend. Photo: Contirbuted

Small town, huge win

a a Little old Maffra became h r 4 the best under 14 k m basketball team in o c r y, country Victoria recently u a taking out the state m i championship.

Magpies suffer first lossofseason2024

Liam Durkin

YOU didn’tmissmuch at Ted Summerton Reserve.

Anon-atmospheric match (quite unusual for a Moe home game), saw the Lions beat Sale by 34 points, 14.10 (94) to 8.12 (60) in Round 3ofthe Gippsland League.

The noticeably small crowd may have played some part in agenerally unexciting game, as both teamsappeared content to run out the second half andget off the ground at the weekend.

While asix goal margin is often considered ‘nothing’ in modern football, Moe never appeared in great danger of dropping their 30-point halftime lead.

The Lions kicked11goals to five either side of the main break, and much like the currentAustralian Test bowling attack, controlled tempo to ensure it stayed ahead of the game.

Idyllic conditions meantthe ball spent agood deal of time off the ground, and the spectators that did show up were at least treated to some offensive transition that was easy on the eye.

Moe skipper and best-on-ground Jacob Wood kicked four goals for the day, including two in the thirdvia opportunisticsnapsinfront of theCan Bar.

TheMagpieskickedfour goals in the third, after onlymanagingone up until then.Whilethe firsttwo came from free kicks, they were able to finish off their work fromfurther up the ground on the others.

Tom Campbell benefited from aBohdi Walker hit-up at the 13-minute mark, and then playingcoach,JackJohnstone after clunking astronggrab amid three Moe defenders. By three quarter time, the Lions had more than doubledthe Magpiesscore. Despite messages of being ruthless to finishoff the game,Moe only managed one more goal from that point.

In fairness,Sale playeda plus-one in defence, with DerekEggmolesse-Smith sittingbackand stacking his stat sheet.

The former Richmondplayer picked up anumber of rebounds, and set up afew forward forays with

smart diagonal kicks across the ground allowing teammates to run onto the ball in space. Withbigger games to come for both sides, the contest dwindled out, and watchingon, it was clear players were playingwithselectiveintensityto avoid any last-minute injuries.

Joining Wood in the best for the winners was Ben Daniher, Riley Baldi,Harri Sim,Brock Smith and HarryPepper, who booted five goals.

The Magpies were noticeably short afew absolute top linersinWill Leslie, Cody Henness, Jack McLaren and Jordan Dessent, and in theory at least, opponents can expect astrongerSale in the second half of the season provided those players return.

If last seasonisany indication,Salewill more than likely be managing their list with the aim of having close to everyone available at the pointy end. Eggmolesse-Smith was voted best-on at the weekend,followedbyPat Tainsh,Walker and Jonty McGuinesschannelling his inner Aaron Naughton, rocking the white headband.

JackLeslie and Shannen Lange alsoplayedwell, although the latter may have summed up what couldhave been describedasanoverall‘offday’ for the Magpies.

Even Lange, atwo time Trood Award andRodda Medal (Gippsland League best and fairest) winner, missed some easytargets,underwhatappeared to be not agreat deal of pressure, as did Johnstone, who was heard to curse himself in third person at one stage.

Perhapsitisthis writer being too observant, but evenwatching Sale comeout after halftime, one sensed ageneral feeling of flatness in thecamp. Kicks during lane work were fairly lackadaisical before the start of the third quarter, whileeven something as smallasthe Magpies clubnotes in the weekly Record being rehashed from the previous round may have reflected an exhausting few days within club land.

Maffra no match for Leongatha -Page26

STORY -PAGE30 Maffra Eagles Under 14 Basketball Victoria Country Champions. Winston Gieschen (team manager), Kelly Burgiel (coach), Lincoln Fulford, Charlie Young, Harry McInnes, Hudson Cromb, Ron Crawford (assistant coach), (front) Paddy Centra, Rusty Dowsett, Ace Burgiel, Ryder Gieschen, Kai Boyle and Hugo Macpherson.

Photo: Tash Dowsett