Gippsland Times March 12 2024

MEMBER for Eastern Victoria, Renee Heath, hasabstained from votingfor legislation that would set ambitious wind energy targets for the state.

Dr Heath refused to backthe new targets in stateParliament, despite the fact that Australia’s first offshore wind zone was declared off the coast of Golden Beach and Seaspray in late 2022 and is a key part of future wind energy plans for both the state and federal governments.

“This bill is like signing an economic death warrant for Victoria,” Dr Heath said, adding that her constituents had raised concernswith her, including farmers.

Dr Heath brokeranksinthe Victorian LiberalParty by notsupporting the bill, known as ‘Climate Change and Energy LegislationAmendment(Renewable Energy and Storage Targets) Bill 2023’, which nonetheless passed the upper house last Thursday.

The legislationsetsnew offshore wind energytargets of at least two gigawatts by 2032 and increasesthe state’srenewable energy target from 50 per cent renewable electrification to 95 per cent by 2035.

Dr Heath told the Gippsland Times she wasrepresenting the Eastern Victoria electoratewhenshe abstained.

“There are different views on this in the (Liberal) Party,and there are differing viewsbetween electorates. But Ihave to represent my electorate, and it is aregion that has been gutted by Labor’s green policies,” Dr Heath said.

“We have seen the down-scalingofthe power industry,the closureofthe native timber industry and Iamconcerned this policy is going to impact Gippsland’s agriculture industry.

“Nationally,tomeet our emissions reductions targetswewouldhave to build 40 new wind turbines per month and install 22,000 new solar panels per day. Ididn’t support the new Victorian

targets because Idon’t want to see our prime agricultural land taken over by wind turbines and solar panels. “The targets are completely unrealistic, will continually push up energy costs and put our farmers at risk.”

Dr Heath has clarified she doesn’t oppose windfarms in principle and wants renewables to succeed if it results in cheap baseloadpower, but believed thelegislation could cause unintended consequences.

Addressing the Legislative Council on Thursday, Dr Heath said: “I representa region that has not recovered from the job losses from the closure of Hazelwood. Up to 1000 jobs were lost and we were promised atransition, and we have transitioned to absolutely nothing.”

“I believe that we should be ambitious Ibelieve that there is nothingwrong with that, but this is not ambition.This is misleading.”

While debating the bill in Parliament, Member for the Western Metropolitan

One of the region’s longest running events, the Maffra Mardi Gras, returns

Region and government minister, Ingrid Stitt said renewables were the cheapest form of energy.

Addressing potential impacts on farmland, Ms Stittsaidthe biggest threat to agricultural land was climate change,and that “our farmers are at the forefront of the impacts of climate change.”

“Many of them understand exactly what the threat is,” Ms Stitt said.

The Liberals prior to the vote had beensplitinthe shadow cabineton their stance on this bill, but eventually decided to vote for it.

The opposition requested an update fromthe state government on how they would reach the 2032 target after the federal government blocked plans to develop the PortofHastingsasan offshore wind terminal earlier this year over its potential environmental impact on the internationally protected Western Port Ramsar Wetland.

Continued -Page7

Stefan Bradley

NEWRY

Metaannouncement abig blowto regional news, puttingjobsatrisk

Comment

AndrewSchreyer

AUSTRALIA'S largest organisation of newspaper publishers has attacked the announcement by Meta thatitwill no longernegotiate dealswith publishers once current agreements expire.

Country Press Australia represents more than 230 regional, rural and outer suburban publications across the nation.

The organisation was recently advised through an email from Meta that “our company priorities have substantially shifted in the past year and, as aresult, we will no longer be making Facebook News Tab available in Australia”.

Metaalsoconfirmed “this doesn’t affectour agreement with CountryPress Australia which will continue in accordance with its terms and conditions until it expires”.

In asubsequent meeting between Country Press

Australia and Meta,itwas made clearthat Country Press Australia’s agreement with Meta would not be renewed.

This is adevastating blow to our members who are party to the agreement.

All are publishers of regionaland local public interest journalism.

Meta hasbeen providing grants to Country Press Australia publishers which hasprovided vital sustainability.

Therewill be publishers who close the doors and won’t be able to continue supporting their communities with news in the wake of this announcement. Theseregional and local publishers are the major, and in most cases sole providers of local public interest journalism in their communities.

In times of trouble and in emergency situations, such as during floodsand in major bushfire events, the local publisher’s Facebook pageisnever more important or appreciated by people in our communities.

Meta’s actions undermine our democracy in the way the company displayssuchdisdain for the work of the news industry. It also undermines public confidence in the media sector.

The mostpopular Facebook pages in most regional and rural communities are those of the local news publishing company, yet Meta says people don’t go to Facebook for news or political content.

What about in times of bushfire and floods or when the chips are down and someone in the community needs help? Local experience would suggest otherwise.

If, by Meta’s own admission, Australians don’t go to Facebook for news or political content, then the federal government should heed the advice of Meta and immediately cease advertising on Meta’s platforms.

Sadly, jobs will definitelybelost as aresult of Meta’s decision, but it’s hard to put anumberon this.

Giventhe already well-documentedchallenges

our industry faces (major cost increases for newsprint, ink, energy and the decline in federal government advertising spend), this announcement will force many publishers to confront the issues ahead of them and cut staff.

The reaction from our members in the aftermath of the announcement has been one of deep concern, alarm and even anger.

The federal government must act to give assurancetoour industry and to support the democratic infrastructurethat is the newspaperindustry. And it needs to move swiftly, decisively and with purpose.

We need governmenttosupport the news industryand invoke the news media bargaining code.

Our government must alsodowhat it can to assureAustralians that the government values the news industry’s role in our democracy to mitigate disruptions to the news industry.

Facebookreapedthe benefits of our members’ unique local content for many years, and has paid thoselocal and regional publishers for only the last three years and will now not renew theiragreement with Country Press Australia.

Ademocracy cannot function without ahealthy news sector, and this is now heavilyatrisk in regional and local communities after Meta’s decision.

It is importantthat the federal government responds swiftly to this decision and considers all possible action including designating Meta under the News Media Bargaining Code and other options available to them and the ACCC.

It is vital that news media is adequately compensated for the content that Facebook has been able to build their business from over many years and ensure astrongand robust news media industry which is vital for ahealthy democracy.

It is also vital thatthe federal government ensures strong support of the industry now more than ever before and ensures the News Media Assistance Program (News MAP) is finalised urgently.

Andrew Schreyer is the president of Country Press Australia.

The Gippsland Times, Latrobe Valley Express, andGippsland Farmer (all produced andprinted in Morwell)will be affected by Meta’s (Facebook) decision to stop paying Australian publishers for news content Photo:Liam Durkin

Country Press Australia President,Andrew Schreyer marksthe announcement as a “devastating blow”. Photo:Contributed

Mardi Grastohit the streets of Maffra

COME to OUTER SPACE at the Maffra Mardi Gras! The Mardi Gras has been running in Maffra for more than 60 years, and is thelongest running event in the history of the Maffra and Wellington Shires.

Rotary Club of Maffra took over the running of the event in 2010, and after three years of being unable to run it due to the pandemic, brought back ahighly successful Mardi Gras last year, More than 2000 people attended and ahuge parade of floats and vehicles were seen on the resumption.

The word Mardi Gras literally means ‘fat Tuesday’.

It goes back to medieval times, the practice of eating rich food before fasting for Lent, and often extends over three days in many parts of Europe andother parts of the world. It is acarnival with a parade -our Mardi Gras arose from this tradition.

The Maffra Mardi Grasconsistsoffive sections:

 Section 1: The fundraising by the entrants and their clubs for six weeks before the event. The club that raises the most amount of money over the six-week period will win Maffra Mardi Gras 2024

This year the entrants are Nicole Wilkinson from theMaffra Cricket Cluband KadeRenooyfromthe Maffra Football-Netball Club.

 Section 2: The lead up to the procession, namely entertainment, street stalls and fun. It’s an alcohol free, ‘family friendly’ afternoon/

Whatyou need to know ahead of the weekend

JOHNSON Street will be closed off to traffic between 1pm and 9pm this Saturday (March 16).

The Northern Service lanewill be used for the market and food stalls, so all vehicles should be removed from there by 1pm. Market and food stalls will be trading between 4pm and the end of the event (around 8pm).

Kid’s activitieswilltakeplace,starting at 4pm, at the Rotunda, between IGA and the post office, and behind Southern Rural Water.

Disabled Parking is availableinthe southernservice lane –entry from the Foster St roundabout only and exit from the Thompson St roundabout, not Purdy Lane.

The bus stop in Johnson St will notbe operating between 1pm and 9pm. Between these times, the buses will only stop at Lions Park.

Floats should check in at the registration desk by 5.15pm so judges have time to start looking at your floats. Floats on trucks and utes will assemble on McMahon Drive, walking groups in Empire Place and trucks and tractors in the area near the police station.

The Grand Parade will start at 6pm.

The presentation will start at about 7.157.30pm. Raffles will be drawn, float prizes and trophies awarded,and the winnerof Mardi Gras 2024 will be announced.

At least one member from each float is required to be at the presentation to collect any awards.

evening, between the hours of 4pm and 8pm. It takes place in Johnson Street, Maffra, which is closed off to through traffic via aspecial permit approved by Victorian Transport.

There will be musical entertainment on the Bedggood Stage by the Strzelecki String Busters and Dayne Nicholls.

For the children, the popular Free Kids’ Corner will be backonthe grass area behind Southern Rural Water. There willalsobearcade games and circus workshops, jumping castles and tractor/trailer rides. Also, more than 20 market style stalls (food, craft, clothing, etc) trading in the northern service lane.

Float reflecting creativity

Ben McArthur

WITHthe technological knowhow and coordination needed for the more ambitious floatideas at the Boisdale Consolidated School, it could be argued that the Maffra Mardi Gras was an opportunity to let the parents’creativityshine just as much as the students’.

Member of the school’s Mardi Gras Float Team, Jenna White said that one parent was so dedicated they made aprop so big that the only way to get it out of the shed was to take the roof off.

"The teachers did abrilliant job leading it last year, but some other parents and Iare very crafty and thought we could do more. And we have more time than the teachers do, so we volunteered and started doing bits and pieces every now and then at the end of last year," Ms White said.

"We love dress-ups, and when they gave us a theme, we worked with what we had."

The school will be marchingwith props made from recycledmaterials to the festival'sspace theme,with about 70 students in amarching band, dress-ups and depict scenes such as acow jumping over the moon and the moon landing; yet this is still afar cry from their initial ambitiousness.

"In the beginning, we came up with so many ideas, and the teachers helped us by scaling back some of thethemesbytelling us what's realistic and over the top, what they can achieve," Ms White said.

"One of the early ones was to have smoke and flames coming out of the rocket and some space animals, too."

The school's Principal, Belinda Marshall, who willdress up as an astronautonSaturday, said preparation for the Mardi Gras was part of the school's art curriculum. While the school's parents did the planning, the students did most of the work.

"A lot of the parents are excited and pitching in, getting their kids dressedupfor the event," she said.

"We also have about 15 students practicing multiple times aweek doing adrum band, which will be behind the float.

"It's good to see the students step out of their comfort zone and have agood time because they're aterrific groupofkids."

The students will wearcolourful, recycled green masksinthe parade

The school is competing for the first-place award at theMardi Gras, whichwillbespent on anew cattle crush for theschool farm.

Some of the local shops remain open for the night.

 Section 3: The Grand Parade, includes floats, vehicles, some trucks, emergency services vehicles, old cars, the Maffra Municipal Band and the Sale Pipe Band. This starts at 6pm from the Thompson Street end of Johnson Street.

 Section 4: The presentations from the Bedggoods Stage to the Fundraising Entrants and to the award-winningfloats, commencing around 7.15-7.30pm. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winning floats, over $8000 thanks to Community Bank Maffra and District. Trophies will be awarded for the Best Overall Float (Liz Shepard Memorial Trophy), the Best Community float (Joan Laws Trophy) and to the best Business Float (Arthur Watts Trophy). Wellington Shire Mayor, Ian Bye will be there to help to present the awards and will also draw the major raffles for the Maffra Cricket Club and the Maffra FNC. He will then announce the winner of the Mardi Gras 2024.

Mardi Gras is heaps of fun, with alot of free activities.

Comealong in fancydress and you may win aspot prize, $20 voucher from Fever, the Book Shoppe, The Beet Café, FOMO Discount and Party shop, Woolworths, or Alexander’s Cycle shop.

The Mardi Gras committee is very grateful to all the sponsors, many local businesses and especially Community Bank Maffra and District and Wellington Shire Council. Without them, Rotary Club of Maffra could not provide this great entertainment opportunity for not just Maffra, but the Wellington Shire.

 MAFFRA Neighbourhood House Scrabble group has been resurrected, and now meets every Friday afternoon from 1pm. Beginners are welcome to come along. Cost is only $2 per week.

 THE next First Aid and CPR course is on Thursday, March 21 from 6pm at Maffra Neighbourhood House. Bookings for this course can be made at Kemp Aquatics on 5141 1127 or Maffra Neighbourhood House on 0422 335 155. All students must enrol and complete online learning prior to the course date.

 THE next Free Community Meal will be held on Monday, March18 at 6pm atSt John’s Anglican Church, (Corner Thomson and Church Street, Maffra). All welcome.

Maffra PrimarySchoolwerethe Best Floatwinners at last year’s event. Photo: Contributed

Boisdale Consolidated School studentsLachie Marshall, Will White, George Willis and Bastion Farmer areall setfor the Maffra Mardi Gras.

Photo:Ben McArthur

Camp Crusty to overtake caravan park operations

THE successful tenderer for the lease of Sale and Stratford caravan parks havebeen announced following acomprehensive tender process.

As land manager for several caravan parks located on Crown Land, Wellington Shire Council oversees commercialleasesonbehalfofthe Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA). Council engaged an independent caravanparkmanagementcompany to coordinate the public tender process.

The tender for the lease, development and management of both parks was advertised locally, through an agency and further afield overa sixweek period. Tenderers were required to address arange of criteria including previous experience, capitalinvestment, and consider how the business will promotesustainability, and work with the local community.

Both Sale Motor Village, located on the Princes HighwayinSaleand Stratfordonthe RiverTourist Park, locatedat2-16McMillanStreet, Stratford will be operated by new leaseholders and experienced park operators, Michael Harris and Paul Hangan from Camp Crusty.

Camp Crusty will commence operations in April andJuly2024, subject to finalising all necessary approvals.

Both Michael and Paul are directors and shareholders of the Camp Crusty Group, employing around 100 people. Together,they own several tourist accommodation and hospitality businesses in Victoria's north-east, including the Bright Cabin and Caravan Park and Camp Crusty Eldorado. Their track record includes acquiringtourism assets and businesses, revitalising properties and

significantly increasing visitation, such as at the Bright Accommodation Park, which saw a50per cent increase in visitor nights within their first 12 months of operation.

Akey competitive edge lies in their family business' ability to create visitor experiences, including offeringnovel accommodation options such as eco-pods, glamping tents and more.

When asked about the future of both parks, new operator MichaelHarris said the pair was very excitedtobethe newleaseholders of theparks, and wanted to leverage the goodwill and hard work put in by the previous park operators.

“We look forward to getting busy, setting the parks up for the next generation of visitors to this beautiful region. Our families would like to thank Wellington Shire Council for entrustinguswith this important responsibility, and we look forward to immersing ourselves into the community," Mr Harris said.

Furthermore, when asked about the origin of their business name, they explained,

“The very first park we purchased in Bright was in desperate need of improvements, and as such had earned an unflattering nickname from the locals. We thought the nickname was memorable and quirky, so we just embraced it and Camp Crusty was born”.

Shortlyafterfinalising the lease,the new operators will commencerefurbishingand renovating the facilities. This will include upgrading the camp kitchen and the old Visitor Information Centre at Sale Motor Village. Additionally,new accommodation options, such as cabins and glamping setups will be added to increase capacity and accessibility to improve the visitor experience.

Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Ian Bye expressed excitement about the appointment, highlighting its potential to modernise and increase visitation to The Middle of Everywhere.

“We see both caravan parks as drivers for expanding tourism in the region and are excited to see how the Camp Crusty team will enhance these parks over the coming years,” he said.

The Mayor also thanked outgoing tenants,Floyde and LeanneMurphy at Sale Motor Village, and Shaun and Louise Perrett at Stratford on the River Tourist Park.

“The long-term tenants at both parks have provided significant contribution to their respective communities, and tourism within the region over along period of time," Cr Bye said.

"We would like to thank them for their hard work and wish them all the best for what comes next."

Family fun at Baby’s DayOut

Ben McArthur

HUNDREDS of parents and kids aged up to four came to Brennan Park, Sale last week for Baby's Day Out.

The event, held Monday, March 4was spent at Brennan Park, and featured rock painting, aFrozen jumping castle, face painting, balloon twisting, ice cream, and apetting zoo.

It was an undeniably rural Victorian event, with the most popular attraction being atractor with asmiley face on the grill slowly towing a trailer full of kidsand parentsaroundthe park. According to the length of lines, the nextmost popular event was apetting zoo organised by Aussie Farm Animals that had goats, chickens, ducks, sheep and rabbits.

ARE your kids bouncing off the walls?

These school holidays,Wellington Shire Council is encouraging families to jump into GippslandRegional Sports Complex’s new inflatable obstacles. Officially launching on Friday, April 5, the equipment includes an obstacle run, giant dart board,jumping castle, slam dunk zone and a ball pit. Set up on Court 4ofthe indoor stadium,the sports-themed inflatables aim to engage young peopletoincreasetheir fitness and wellbeing in afun way, allowing them to socialise with peers

In Step Dance School turned half abasketball court into adancing arenasupported by whimsical music.

There were about 13 stallsmade up of representatives from Uniting Care, Maternal and Child Health Services, Sale Police Station, Wellington Toy Library, GippslandRegional Sports Complex and other not-for-profits.

The day was part of WellingtonShire'sParks Week activities, ending last Sunday (March 10), with the Sale Music Festival.

Wellington Shire Mayor Ian Bye called this Baby's Day Out an "important event".

"Weare really lucky to have so many beautiful parks and open spacesinThe Middle of Everywhere, and Parks Weeks offers something for everyone and all abilities to get involved with," he said.

Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Ian Bye, encouraged families to take advantage of GRSC’s extended school holidayopening hours.

“The GRSC’s inflatables are agreat excuse to get out of the house and enjoy some physical activity in all weather,” he said.

GRSC’s inflatables will be open from 10am until 3pm, Friday to Monday during school holidays, and Sundays during school terms.

Entry is $15for two hours,and includes access to general sports equipmentonthe adjoining three courts.

Equipment is suitable for those aged fiveand over.

For more information,visit grscwellington com.au/inflatables

Inside oneofthe kitchens at Camp Crusty.The business will overtake operations at caravan parks in Sale and Stratfordthis year

The eco pods at Camp Crusty areconsidered innovative,much more so thanthe infamous Kamp Krusty of Simpsons notoriety.

Photos: Contributed

The Frozen ‘castle’ wasapopular attraction at Baby’s DayOut. Photos: Ben McArthur

The basketball court at Brennan Park turned into adance arena duringPark’s Week.

Aircraftsman awarded for advocacy

Recognition for Outstanding Performance

RAAF BaseEastSalewas visited by warrant officer of the Royal AustralianAir Force,Warrant Officer Ralph Clifton recently.

Warrant Officer Clifton spent severaldays visiting the units across RAAF Base East Sale, speaking with staff and students aboutthe Chief of Air Force’sprioritiesafter the release of the Defence Strategic Review by the government in 2023.

As part of his base visit, Warrant Officer Clifton visited Officers’ Training School, which proved to be an excellentopportunity for him to present Leading Aircraftman, Chester Ryan withanAustralia Day Medallion for his commitment to being apositive advocate for the Air Force.

Australia Day Medallions are awarded to recognise outstanding performance by individuals.

Leading Aircraftman Ryan joined the Air Forceas aGap Year participant in 2021, and is aPersonnel Capability Specialist on staff at the Officers’ Training School.

He was recognised for his exemplary contributions to joint effects and the civil communitythrough his participationinOperation FLOODASSIST, Operation COVID-19 and Exercise TALISMAN SABRE.

East Sale Community Hub

Welcome Event

THE East Sale Community Hub held its annual Welcome Day event earlier this month, with alarge number of families turning out.

The Welcome event is an opportunity for all members and their families at RAAF Base East Sale to come together in arelaxed environment and connect with others within the community. Partnersand familiesnewly arrivedtoSale were welcomed, local businesses were invited to cater and entertain,and servicesavailableonbasewere there to answer questions.

The Community Hub runs regularevents and activities for Defencemembersand their families If you'd like to reach out, you can find the East Sale Community Hub on Facebook.

What's On at Dutson Range

DUTSON Training Area will be active during the periods listed below for field training exercises.

Some of these activities may involve demolition practices and,assuch, explosions may be heard between the hours of 9am and 4pm each day.

Publicrecreational usage of LakeWellington will not be affected by these exercises.

-March5 to 21 -Military training including blank ammunition.

While RAAFpersonnel strivetoinform the public of all activities conducted at Dutson Training Area, explosions may be heard outside of the dates listed above if dictated by operational requirements.

Warning to Hunters

IN the interest of public safety, notification is given thataccess to Dutson Training Area is prohibited.

Dutson TrainingArea is still an active weapons range,and presents asignificant hazard to all persons within the range boundaries.

The hazard not only exists during range activation for weapons exercises, but also during times of inactivity. This is due to the very high levels of Unexploded Explosive Ordnance on this range, some dating back to World War 2, much of which is in an unstable condition.

Unmarked silted in bombcraterspresent another significant hazard.

You are reminded that it is an offence, under Section 89 and 89A of the Commonwealth Crimes Act, to trespass on Defence land, and to discharge firearms on or over Commonwealth land.

The Dutson Range Boundaries are depicted on the map pictured (right).

For further information, phone Sergeant Nick Young on 0429 402 049.

Aircraft Operations at East Sale

IF you are interested in learning more about the role of RAAF Base East Sale, flyingoperations and flying areas,you can visit defence.gov.au/ aircraftnoise/EastSale

This includes alinkthe RAAF East Sale Noise ManagementPlan. TheDefenceapproach to noise mitigation and Air Force fly neighbourly policycan be found through the ‘Understanding Noise’ site.

Any enquiries relatingtoactivitiesatRAAF Base, East Sale, should be directed to the Air Base Command Post on 5169 9892, or via email to esl. abcp@defence.gov.au

Leading Aircraftman Chester Ryan with his AustraliaDay Medallion andaccompanying certificate.

Photo:Contributed

Dutson Training Area range boundaries.

Image: File

Family violence prevention funded

Stefan Bradley

WELLINGTON Shire Councilwill employa‘Free FromViolence’Officer,who will manage programs andinitiatives for the prevention of family violence and violence against women, using adedicated state government fund of $262,500over athreeyear period.

Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Vicki Ward announced last month that councils around the state will deliver arange of initiatives as part of the Free from Violence Local Government Program 2024-27, withWellington Shirepartof the almost $3 million in funds.

Wellington’s $262,500 willgotowards delivering active bystander training to councilstaff -including community facing staff.Programs and activities implemented willhelp people in the community understandthe role they can play to make their community safer

“We’re significantly investing in our local communitiestoengage in important familyviolence prevention programs,” Ms Ward said.

WellingtonShire Council Mayor, IanBye welcomed the funding, and said that council was committed to the prevention of gender-based and family violence in Wellington.

“Using the funding, council will employ a‘Free From Violence’Officer,who will implement programsand initiatives dedicated to family violence prevention such as delivering Active Bystander training to local sporting clubs, business and community and health organisations,” Cr Bye said.

“Currently, council workswithGippsland Women’s Health and other organisations in family violence prevention, through coordinated events like Candlelight Vigil and 16 Days of Activism. Both events aim to start authentic conversations about gender-based and family violence.”

As large employers with unique connections to their local communities, councils are well placed to support communitiestoboth prevent family violence and stop violence against women.

This is the second round of the program, whichis already supporting15councils to carry out primary prevention initiatives in their local area.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh said the grants are an important part of the state government’s work to end family violence.

Housing and Equality Minister and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said family violence

preventionprograms were vital to keep peoplesafe

“Every Victorian -nomatter their age or address -has the right to be treated with respect at home, work or in their community,” she said.

Someofthe state's highest ratesoffamily violence are in Gippsland LGAs.

From June 2022-July 2023, Wellington had the fourth-highest rates of familyviolence in the state per 100,000 people.

Per 100,000 people, Latrobe Valley has the second-highest rate of family violence in Victoria, with East Gippsland the third-highestduring this time period

Latrobe Valleysaw aslightincrease of calls to police (0.42 per cent), with East Gippsland seeing adip (-3.58 per cent) overthe previous 12 months. However, in Wellington, 1355 calls for assistance from Victoria Police were made from June 2022July 2023, astaggering increase of 11.24 per cent from the previous 12 months.

This data only includes Victorian Police callouts for familyviolenceincidents;itdoes not indicatethe number of people who sought assistance directly through afamily violence service, hospitals, GP Clinicsorthrough other referral pathways such as schools and Child Protection.

Across Victoria, 9120 women on average per year arebecoming homeless due to family violence, with 7690 returning to relationships due to the inability to find housing.

If you or anyone you know needs help:

Lifeline 13 11 14

Gippsland Centre Against Sexual Assault 5134 3922

Kids Helpline 1800 551 800

Beyond Blue 1300 224 636

headspace 1800 650 890

LOCAL motorists and regionaltrain travellers will face disruptions, delays and detours throughout autumn as the state government carriesout works on the GippslandLine Upgrade and the Princes Freeway.

The government said theseworks willlead to more services, level crossings removed and better facilitiesfor regional passengers. Test trains will continue running outside the MetroTunnel, while the removal of level crossings and construction of anew station in Pakenham will create dedicated V/Line tracks -improving reliability on the Gippsland Line.

Throughout March, coaches will replace V/Line trains travelling between Southern Cross and Pakenham.

Regional passengerswill also board replacement coaches for six weeks in May and Juneascrewsonthe GippslandLine Upgrade carry out complex signalling work, safety testing and driver training.

Motorists travelling between Melbourne and Gippsland will detour through Pakenham as the eastbound lanesofthe Princes Freeway close from April 12 to April 15 for asphalt strengthening works, as part of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade, whichwill improve trafficflowand reduce bottlenecks.

Passengersplanning to travel during these disruptions should allow up to 60 minutes extra for their journey and check the temporary coach replacement timetable before travelling, whichwill be available from the V/Line and PTV websites closer to the start of works.

Minister for Transport Infrastructure, Danny Pearson said these works will help deliver more trains, more often across regional Victoria.

“We are getting on with delivering vital infrastructure that will better connect regional Victoria with modern and more reliable transport,” Mr Pearson said.

Wellington hasone of theworst familyviolence incident rates in Victoria.

Photo:File

Windfarm: AGLreceives preliminary selection

PhilipHopkins

AGROUP of leading companies including AGL has been preliminary selected to build wind farms offthe Gippsland coast to drive renewable energy in Victoria, The Australian newspaperreported last week.

Thegroup,which couldstill change as an official decision is still weeks away, will be the lead developers of wind energy, which will generate about 20 per cent of the state’senergy needswithin adecade under the state government’s plans. This will double to 4gigawatts by 2035 and 9GW by 2040.

Companies thathave beenpreliminary awarded a“feasibility licence” are Star of the South, which is Australia’s most advanced offshore wind operation, and aconsortium including AGL Energy. The consortium also includes the Norwegian giant Orstedand the Japanese-owned Parkwind,The Australian said.

All parties declined to comment, all having signed non-disclosureagreementsduring the bidding process.

Feasibility licenses give projects exclusive rights over apartofthe region for seven years, which is deemed critical for attracting investment.

Parkwind is ownedbyJERA, Japan’s largest power generation company, which last month acquireda15.1 per cent stake in Woodside’s Scarborough LNGproject -all apart of Japan’s aim to secure its energy supplies.

In contrast, the Japanese-owned Flotation Energy, was left off the list of preliminary licence holders, The Australian said. Flotation is owned by one of Japan’s largest companies, Tokyo Electric Power Company, and had what was regarded as Australia’s second-most advanced offshore wind development.

The Australian said it believedFlotation Energy had tried to lobby the federal government to reverse its decision, with seniorJapanese executives travelling to Canberra.

“The list of winners could swell if projects facing boundary disputes, such as those of Origin, Shell and Energy Australia, can adjust their boundaries,” the newspaper said.

“Those in boundary disputes stilldonot know who they are vying with for the same part of the ocean. Once informed, parties areexpected to have 30 days to strike an agreement.”

The Australian said the government hoped that about 10 developers will be able to begin work on the wind energy projects.

Apart from its specific targets, Victoria sees the potentialfor 13GW of offshore wind capacity by 2050, five times the current renewable generation in Victoria.

Victoria still generates 60 per cent of its energy from Latrobe Valley brown coal, but Energy Australia’s Yallourn powerstation is due to closein 2028and AGL’s Loy Yang Apower station by 2035.

Twofatal crashes within 10 minutes of each other

ROSEDALEand Longwarrybothsaw fatal crashes within about 10 minutes of each other last Friday afternoon, March 8.

In Rosedale, it is believedacar crashed intoatree on WillungRoad about 12.50pm. The sole occupant of the vehicle was found dead at the scene.

In Longwarry, it is believed amaledriver was travelling along Drouin Road when he lost control of his car causing it to roll over about 1pm. He died at the scene.

As of last Friday, police said the deceased were yet to be identified and investigations ongoing. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 if you have any information.

Still waiting on green light for first offshore wind

zone

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MS Stitt said in parliament they were working “diligentlyonaway forward for the Port of Hastings and the Victorian renewable energy terminal” through consultation with the federal government.

“We are undeterred, and we are going to keep going because we know that we have to have this in our energy mix,” she said.

Wellington Shire Council MayorIan Bye, as well as Member for GippslandSouth, Danny O’Brien have both previously said Barry Beach in South Gippsland should be consideredasanalternative site for the terminal.

“Council maintains its support of renewable energy,especiallyinthe Gippsland regionwhere over $40 billion in investment is planned. We are waiting eagerly for the federal government to give the green light for the next phase in developing Australia’s first offshore wind zone,” Cr Bye told the Gippsland Times in January.

Wellington Shire Mayor,Ian Byetakes centrestagetointroduce the SaleMusic Festival/ Picnic on the Green last Sunday. Hot weather greeted attendees for the10thinstalmentof the event.Full coverage of the festival willbeprovided in Friday’s Gippsland Times

Photo: Ben McArthur

Bundy to open an electrifying show

KatrinaBrandon

HERE comes legendary the Don Walker, amember of Cold Chisel, who is coming to Gippsland on March 24 at Live At The Bundy, supporting his 2023 album Lightning in aClear Blue Sky

With the recent performance by Ian Moss at The Wedge and now Don Walker, you wouldthink that this year is aGippsland Cold Chisel experience. Who’s next? Jimmy?

In and out of ColdChisel,MrWalker’s writing skills have been admired by others for his meticulous focus on getting the song just right.

“I sometimes work hard on getting alineright, andsometimes Ihave been lucky enough to have a wholesong downloaded into my head in real time. It’s the full range of experience,” he said.

Sparking inspiration to write his first album of his own in 10 years, Mr Walker said that over ayear, his new album didn’t take long.Rather, it was just spread out over afew days betweenMelbourne and Sydney. The album was finished by October 2022, eight songs within it, and for vinyl listeners, abonus disk with aseparate recording of the same songs.

Mr Walkertold the Gippsland Times that he most resonateswithsongs ‘EmptyDance-Hall’ and ‘Jungle Pam’. He said that ‘EmptyDance-Hall’ was him going with jazz, and ‘Jungle Pam’, aswampy rock song, was inspired by something that George Young would play and listen to.

Behind Mr Walker’s strong song writing skills, arehis real-lifeinsecurities, such as hoping that the crowd is having the best time they can, features aspot in his mind.

He said, “ultimately, Iaminfront of people and tryingtodowhatIdowith people around me. Doing what we do in the best and convincing way possible so thatthe people theresee something worth being there for is agood way to spend their time. Iwant people to have fun.”

“Having remembered the last line mixed in with the fear of forgetting somethinginthe next line because the songs Ido, not all of them, can be quite dense with the storytelling. If you screw up, there’s much more pressure than if Iamsinging by memory.”

Besides the challenges, Mr Walker has enjoyed his time as amusician and has had many highlights, such as hearing his songs on the radio.

“Peoplestarting to like the songs that Iwrote that Cold Chisel was doing when we were doing what people weren’t supposed to like. That was a big surprise for me,” he said.

“The people that Iplay with are very good. They’re the best. They are the people other bands look at, and so we take what we do musically very seriously, but to getthere,there is alot of humourinit. Ithink that people can see abunch of people on stage who are pretty good at what they do and don’t take it lightly.”

To get to where he is now, Mr Walker said that starting off, he wanted to do something completely different from thosealready established artists and says that those who want to do music should do the same.

“Ignore any advice from old people …wethought we had amuch better idea, and we did. The real people,young peoplecomingalong, are notfollowing advice from those who came before. They are staying true to the force within them,” he said.

For more information, go to the Live At The Bundy website.

Don Walker playskeyboards and backing vocals in Cold Chisel,but will be performing under hisown name at Live At The Bundy this month. Photos: Contributed

IrishlegendlandsatValenciaHall

VALENCIA Soldiers MemorialHall will be hosting Irish legend, Eleanor McEvoy on her Gimme Some Wine Tour on Easter Saturday, March 30.

Having released her 16th album Gimme Some Wine to rave reviews, Ms McEvoy is one

Irish singer-songwriter,Eleanor McEvoywill playatthe ValenciaSoldiers Memorial Hall on Saturday, March30. Photo:Contributed

of Ireland’s foremost songwriters, is now back on the road following the release of her latest single, ‘South Anne Street’

The song capturesameeting between exes at the corner of SouthAnneStreet and Grafton Street in Dublin on aTuesday afternoon.

It is both absolutely intimate and utterly universal andhas stronglyresonated with audiences.

Ms McEvoy has been enthralling audiences for decades.

She is the composer,co-performer, and producer of 'A Woman's Heart', whichfeatured in the award-winning TV show, Derry Girls, in 2019.

During 2020,she teamed up with Paul Brady to write 'Found out by Fate', asavageindictment on acheating partner.

Her song 'Sophie' was described by David Smith from TheGuardian as,“an anthem that is touching, inspiring and consoling thousands of anorexicgirlsaround the world”.

It is used internationallyintreatment centres to treat patients with eating disorders.

Valencia Hall is no stranger to hosting renowned musicians, and once again its stage will be set with an electric guitar, an acoustic guitar, violin, and piano when Ms McEvoy takes the stage.

The show gets underway at 8pmonSaturday, March 30. Tickets are $35 and bookings can be made by calling0439 454 428.

Interactive pop experience

POP Squad is abrand new,uplifting kids show paying tribute to three of the world’s most loved Pop Music icons: Katy Perry, TaylorSwift and Dua Lipa.

The show brings the hit music, flamboyant performances, and outrageous costumes of these global superstars to local stages around the country.

The Pop Squad'snational tour has all the glamourofthesechart dominatingpopstars, with astonishing live vocals and choreographed performances of their biggestsongs, alongwith an impressive light and visual display.

Thisinteractive show is perfect forkids from three to 93, and there mighteven be some surprise special guest appearances.

The Pop Squad willtake the stageatThe Wedge Performing Arts Centre, 100 FosterSt, Sale on Tuesday, April 9at11am, with asecond show at 2pm. The run time is 75 minutes.

There will be achance to meet the girls after the show, to ensure the experience stays with you long after the school holidays have finished! Tickets available from The Wedge.

The Sydney-based trio arestopping in Sale on theirnationaltour. Photo:Contributed

Lightning in aClear Blue Sky is Don Walker’s fourth studio album.

4WDing fordisadvantaged kids

Stefan Bradley

UTE love it if you were there.

On Saturday, March 2, the 19th annual Variety 4WD Adventure set off-road on an eight-day trip from Merimbula through Gippsland and the High Country, including stops in Dargo, Sale and Licola, with the week-long event finishing up in Mt Dandenong on Saturday, March 9.

$20,000 in grants wasdistributed across the entire adventure to benefit disadvantaged children. Licola Wilderness Village, along with East Gippsland Specialist School,Buchan Primary School and Jamieson Primary Schoolreceived

money for sporting equipment such as basketball hoops, mountain bikes and repair kits.

Trevor Carstein, who is the General Manager of the Licola Wilderness Village, said the village’s team and their program participants were thrilled to receive the grant. The majorityofthe town is occupied by the Village, where the Lions Clubs have been running camps for disadvantaged and deserving children groups for the past 50 years.

“This funding will allow us to replace our ageing fleet of mountain bikes, which are essential for delivering bike education and safety programs to underserved youth. These new bikes will ensure the ongoing reliability and quality of our programs, providing valuable opportunities for those who

Photos:Contributed

Easter servicesinWellington

SEND us your Easter events/service times in an email with the subject line 'Easter services' to news@gippslandtimes.com.au

St Columba's Uniting Church, Sale

Good Friday: 9.30am

Good Friday: 10.30am Walk of the Cross

fromSt. Mary'sCathedral to St. Paul's Cathedral

Easter Sunday: 10am -Holy Communion

St Mark's Anglican and Community Church, Loch Sport

Easter Sunday: 10.30am

Maffra Community Church

Friday, March 29: 10am at MaffraMemorial

Hall

Sunday, March 31: 10am at the Rotunda on Johnson Street Maffra

St John’s Lutheran Church, Sale

Good Friday service with Holy Communion at 2pm

Sale Baptist Church

Friday, March 29: 9am Worship Service.

Good Friday

Sunday, March 31: 10am Worship Service.

Easter Sunday

St Mary's Cathedral Parish Lenten Reconciliation

Saturday, March 16: 5pm Lenten

Reconciliation -Rosedale

Sunday, March17: Lenten Reconciliation after Mass -Stratford

Friday, March 22: 5pm LentenReflection and Parish Lenten Reconciliation -Cathedral

St Mary's Holy Week Mass and Services Timetable

Saturday, March23: 9.30am Mass -Cathedral

11am Mass -Loch Sport

5.30pm Mass -Cathedral

5.30pm Mass -Rosedale

Sunday, March 24: 9.30amMass-Cathedral

9.30am Mass -Briagolong

5.30pm Mass -Cathedral

Tuesday,March26: 11am Mass of the Oils -Cathedral

Wednesday, March 27: 9.30am Mass -Cathedral

7.30pm Service of Shadows -StPaul's

Cathedral

Thursday, March 28: Holy Thursday 7.30pm Mass of the Lord's Supper -Cathedral

Friday, March 29: 9.30am Stations of the Cross -Cathedral

9.30am Stations of the Cross -Stratford

9.30am Stations of the Cross -Rosedale

10.30am Walkofthe Cross to St Paul's

Cathedral

3pm Service of the Lord's Passion -Cathedral

Saturday, March 30: 7.30pm Easter Vigil -Cathedral

Sunday, March 31: 9am Mass -Loch Sport

9.30am Mass -Cathedral

9.30am Mass -Stratford

11.15am Mass -Seaspray

might otherwise lack access,” Mr Carstein told the Gippsland Times

“At LicolaWilderness Village, we are passionate aboutcreatingtransformative experiences that empower youngpeoplefromdiverse backgrounds. Through inspiration, optimism, and engagement, we equip them with the tools and confidence to become resilient, community-minded individuals with astrong sense of belonging.

“We, like Variety, believe in the inherent potential of every young person and strive to help them reach their fullest potential. We encourage everyone to donate to Variety to help them reach their goal for the 4WD Adventure and the good they continue to do forcommunities.”

Mr Carstein hopes the Variety 4WD Adventure will lead to more visitors to Licola,with the village open to small andlarge public groups, with camps primarily held during school holidays.

“Licola is acharming villagelocated254 kilometres east of Melbourne beside the Macalister River. The Variety 4WD Adventurers (got) to experience thevillage and howtheir grantwill truly help this community,” he said.

More coverage of the Variety 4WD Adventure in this Friday’s paper. For more information about Variety 4WD Adventure 2024 or to donate visit variety.org.au/nsw/event/4wd

Cheque presentation of $6819 in Licolalast week. From left: Tania Carstein, Trevor Carstein from Licola Wilderness Village, with Motoring Events Manager for Variety RobVincent

Vehicles on location at the Licola Wilderness Villagelastweek

Last Wednesday, March6onDay 5ofthe Variety 4WD Adventure, the participantstook part in activities at theLicolaWildernessVillage.

Sale PS’ slimy fundraiser for Foodbank

ErikaAllen

SALE Primary School is raisingmoney for Foodbank, and for every thousanddollars collected, ateacher volunteers to be ‘slimed’ by an enthusiastic student.

Five teachers have already been slimed, including Year 1-2 teacher Montana Piddington and Year 5-6 teacher Janet Love, who were turned blue by slime at last Friday’s (March 8) whole school assembly.

Jenna Robbins,who is theStudent VoiceAgency and Leadership Specialist at Sale Primary, said students have raised $8500 in just two weeks. It seems the prospectofdumping abucket of slime on their teachers has proven to be an effective fundraising incentive.

“Theyloveit!,”MsRobbins toldthe Gippsland Times about student’s enthusiasm before the sliming began on Friday.

“They yell and scream and acouple of them even come and showmeafterwards that they’ve got (slime) all over their hands.”

The excitement waspalpable at assemblyas kids sat cross-legged eagerly awaiting the end of assembly when the sliming went down.

As Ms Robbins took the microphone to revealthe total amount raised, acheer erupted from asea of black and red uniforms before students gathered around the ‘slime zone’,cheeringasmembers of the Junior School Council, Sasvindee Kumapperuma andSienna Gugliotti,poured gloopy blue slime all over Ms Piddington and Ms Love.

“I think that it is areally great opportunity for kids to see their teachers are willing to have and make light of situations -likewe’re people too -and sometimesthe students just see us as teachers, but it’salways so excitingwhenwedothingsthat they wouldn’t expect,” Ms Robbins said.

“I meanwho doesn’tlovesliming their teachers?”

Behindall theexciting slimyfun,MsRobbinssaid that every dollar raised would enable Foodbank to supply two meals to people who need them.

Foodbank, self-titled as the “pantry to the charity sector in Australia,” offer food and grocery relief to anetwork of 2844 charities and supports 3379 school breakfast programs, playing acrucial role in providing sustenance to those in need.

Sale Primary School is part of abroader initiative seen in numerous schools across Victoria that

implement abreakfast program, supported by provisions from Foodbank.

Ms Robbins said the school runs abreakfast club that offers children arangeofcereal, spreads, milo, and fresh fruit between 8.30am and 9amevery Monday,Wednesday, and Friday morning, as well as snacks like fruit cupsand ‘Messy Monkeys’ kids can snack on in the classroom.

She saidwhileitmay be some students’ only breakfast, otherswho arejust feeling hungry before class are welcome to takeasmuch as they want andare neverturned away.

The school alsodistributefood boxes intothe local community.

“(Foodbank) also provides food boxes for families in need because there are many families that are doing it tough. They send us food so we can make up food boxes that we can either drop off or (families) can pick up to see them through untilpayday,” Ms Robbins said.

“So,itgoes back into ourimmediateSaleand school community.”

Sale Primary’s partnership with Foodbank is a strong one, perhaps exemplified by how students and the school community are rallying behind the fundraiser.

“I think it means alot to the school and Foodbank, because times are so toughatthe moment and peopleare still finding money for such aworthy cause,” Ms Robbins said.

“I think the community is right behind it because they know every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday we haveBrekkie Clubwithfood comingfrom Foodbank, so if their child is the one that’s going in there and getting breakfast, it directly impacts them.”

The fundraising will continue until Thursday, March 28, coinciding with the end of Term 1.

Avibrant colour runisscheduled forthe sameday to celebrate the students’ remarkable fundraising achievements.

Sale Primary School Year 5-6teacher JanetLove being slimed by student Sasvindee Kumapperuma.

Photos:Erika Allen

Montana Piddington andJanet Love wereSale Primary’s latest teachers to be ‘slimed’ as part of fundraising efforts.

JSC representatives, Sasvindee Kumapperuma and Sienna Gugliottiran Friday’s assemblyin front of students and parents beforetipping slime over their teachers.

Crossword Puzzle No.8577

ONE POINTERS

1. In which city would you find The Louvreart museum?

2. Who played the character Dirty Harry?

3. Which birddid miners use to detect poisonous gasses in the tunnels?

4. How long do chicken eggs take to hatch naturally? a) 9days b) 21 days c) 33 days

TWO POINTERS

5. Who is the host of the new Tipping Point game show on the Nine network?

6. What is the name used for an optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions?

7. Which body part has the most bones?

8. True or false. The song ‘Love Is All Around’ was originally sung by Wet, Wet, Wet?

THREE POINTERS

9. Starting with the letter P, what do you call aperson that habitually puts offfinishing tasks?

10. In the Matrix movie, what colour pill does Neo take?

11. Guess the song from these lyrics. “I’ve never seen adiamond in the flesh, Icut my teeth on wedding rings in the movies...”

12. Who beat Daniil Medvedev to win this year’sAustralian Open mens singles title?

FOUR POINTERS

13. Who wrote ‘The Prince and the Pauper’?

14. What country takes its name from the Latin wordfor silver?

FIVE POINTER

15. Five true or false questions? One point for each correct answer

1. Apples and pears areapart of the rose family?

2. Harry Potter’sfirst flying broomstick is called aFirebolt?

3. Put together,ahuman bodies blood vessels can circle the Earth?

4. The cheetah is the fastest animal on the planet?

5. Most cats arelactose intolerant?

37:

WCoastal lifestyle farm

ELCOME to 21 Prospect EstateRoad, Seaspray -a coastallifestylefarm spanning 23.7 hectares with MerrimanCreekfrontage, thoughtfullydesigned forbothequine enthusiastsand those seeking apursuit of mixedfarming,according to agents

This rural propertyoffers theserenity of thecountryside, yet within mere minutes, thebreathtaking 90-milebeach beckons.

The home haseasyaccesstothe conveniences of shops and services in theSale CBD,a mere25minutes away -whichaccording to agentsis trulyembodying theessence of having thebest of both worlds,a lifestyle that seamlesslyintegrates the coast with rural convenience.

The brickhome includes an open-plan design, connectingthe kitchenwith thedining,and familyareas. The area hasa bay window adding natural light, hasa wood heaterplusceiling fanthat provides year-round comfortthrough allseasons, agentssay.A second living room provides another spacefor relaxation and entertainment.

The residencecomprises four bedrooms, eachfeaturing built-in-robes, with the master bedroomofferingan ensuite and walk-in-robe.

Briefdetails fdetails

Property: Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, twocar spaces.

Address: 21 Prospect EstateRoad, Seaspray

Price: $519,000

Contact: Tim Missen 0488 483000,or Tony Kiss 0419 526 637,Wellington Real Estate.

Centrally located,the familybathroomhas avanity, shower,and bath Forconvenience,there is aseparate laundrywithextra storage space.

Stepping outside into the undercover alfresco area, there are opportunities for entertaining all year round, and surrounded by gardens, agents say Acarport with ashower and toilet provides convenience, and an outdoor bungalow.

The property features a12x12-metre shed with concrete flooring, power,6.4 kW solar panels, and roller doors, providing ample storage and workspace.

For horse enthusiasts, afull dressage arena with lights awaits, has a 24x6-metre high shed designed for large horse float parking. This shed also includes three 4x 4stables, aconcreted Tasmanianoak kitchen, atackroom, and awashbay.Well-fenced horse paddocks provide asecure and large environment for equine companions.

Additional sheds include a9x6m enclosed shed with three sliding doors, a12x6m hayshed, an 8x6m machinery shed, and a12x6m machinery shed. The property is equipped with various tanks for water storage.

For those engaged in farmingactivities, there are stock yards and abore with a120 megalitre license. The property boasts 50 acres of irrigated land via the bore, facilitated by lateral sprinklers plus three megalitre stock and domestic use from the creek.

Scenic views compliment

THIS architecturally designed residence on two titles totalling 2,183sqm (approx.) commands sweeping views over the scenic wetlands, offering one of Sale's most serene outlooks.

Agents say that the natural wetlands reserve teeming with wildlifecreates the most beautiful backdrop to arelaxing lifestyle that will be yours to savour.

This residence is surrounded by landscaped gardens. Soak up the garden views in the open-plan-kitchen, meals and family room that connects to the sunlit indoor/ outdoor room.

Acasual area boasting peaked ceilings, polished concrete, electric custom blinds and electric panel heating is the festivity hub to gather with family and friends in any weather

Enjoy vistas of the wetlands in the formal dining and raised living room. There is timber-lined ceilings, awoodfire, awet bar with aservery from the kitchen and apowder room, agents say

Offering three sizeable bedrooms, including the master with walk-in-robe, ensuite and split system air conditioner.The further bedrooms have built-in-robes and share a large modern family bathroom.

Additional add-ons include stone benchtops, walk-in-pantry and appliances in the kitchen, alaundry,window furnishings, hydronic heating, asecurity system, large amount of storage including in-attic, an oversized double garage with built-in storage, asingle carport (offYvette Court) and a separate workshop.

Behind the home is anorth-facing garden.

Briefdetails

Property: Three bedrooms, twobathrooms, three living rooms, three car spaces.

Address: 37-39 Stevens Street,SaleVIC 3850.

Price: $1,350,000

Contact: FergHoran on 0417 123162, or fhoran@chalmer.com.au, Graham Chalmers Real Estate.

PropertyGuide

o l v Stratford living

WELCOMEtothismaintained modernhomelocated in the heart of Stratford, offering aperfect blend of comfort, convenienceand style, according to agents. Thisproperty boasts alocation within walking distance to playgrounds, schools,shops and services, as well as thescenic Avon River andKnob Reserve.

Uponentering, you are opened up to ahallway that leads intothe open-plan kitchen,family,and dining areas, flooded with natural lighttocreate awarmand welcoming atmosphere, agrentssay

Themodernkitchenisequipped featuring appliances, and areasonably sized walk-in-pantry provides amplestorage space.

Astudy nook provides another spacefor asmall homeoffice setuporsomewhere for thekids to do theirhomework.

Themastersuite,situatedatthe rearof the home,provides aprivate area witha walk-in-robe andensuite. Twoadditional large bedroomswithbuilt-inrobes are serviced by acentral family bathroom equippedwith avanity,shower,and bath.

Agentssay that this homeisdesigned foryear-round comfort with asplit system, ensuring apleasant living environment in every season. The property also boastsa5kW solar system with20 panels, contributingtoenergy efficiency and costsavings.

Additionalfeatures include aformal lounge, aseparatelaundry with ample storage, andanadjacent walk-in-linen press providing plenty of organizational space.

Step outside to discover an undercover entertaining area with apull-down outdoor blind for enjoying in any weather.The secure rear yard is low maintenance with established gardens and lawn, agents say The property includes agardenshed and double-gated access to the yard, providing room for acaravan or boat.

There is also adouble garage with internal house access, adding to the convenience and functionality to this property.

Briefdetails fdetails

Property: Three bedrooms, twobathrooms, three car spaces.

Address: 107Hobson Street,Stratford

Price: $519,000

Contact: Christine Haylock 0417 007 336, Wellington Real Estate.

New upgradessavetimeand water

Stefan Bradley

NEWRY'S newly completed upgrade of its irrigation pipeline allows up to 130 megalitres of water per day to be distributed to local farms,saving time through amore efficient and faster system.

The Newry Pipeline upgrade, whichwas completed last month, is part of an infrastructure program to modernise farming in Gippsland. The $39.8 million pipeline is part of the $62.6 million Macalister Irrigation District Modernisation Phase 2Project and replaces 100-year-old open channels with more than 17 kilometres of new pipeline and 50 automatedoutlets

ThePhase 2program aims to deliver more than 7200 megalitres in water savings and drive vital investment in on-farm efficiencies, improve farm productivity and make businesses moreclimate resilient.

Water hasbeen deliveredtofarmersthrough the new pipeline since August. With the decommissioningoflegacy infrastructure nowcomplete, Southern Rural Water managing director, Cameron FitzGerald, said this was agreat modernisation milestone.

“This project has been asignificant investment in Newry and the Gippsland farming community,” Mr FitzGerald said.

“It’s been aonce-in-a-generation opportunity to modernise infrastructure and provide tangible benefits to our customers well into the future.”

The new pipeline generates water savings, implements best-practicewateruse,invests in on-farm efficiencies, improves farm productivity, and enables businesses to be more climateresilient.

The upgrades help save water that was lost due to evaporation and leakagefromthe oldset-up. It also stops harmful nutrients from entering the local streams and the Gippsland lakes.

On the ground, farmers will save about 90 minutes aday from beingabletoaccess the water faster.

Mr FitzGerald said the Macalister Irrigation District Phase 2modernisation works would not only deliver water savings but also encouraged farmerstoimplement best practice irrigation and increase their productivity.

Recently, the Newry pipeline's system reached 130 megalitres -its peak flow. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water saysthattomaintain the system's efficiency, users should plan ahead and cancel orders promptly to free up capacity; communicate early for order extensions; and order water through the night for efficiency.

Work on the Newry pipeline started in November 2022 and its completion marks amajor milestone of adecade-long infrastructure program in the Macalister Irrigation District.

Mr FitzGerald said Gippslandisone of Victoria’s most important food bowls and there is now a chance to imagine what else could be achieved to secure the region’s long-term future.

“Work has already startedtoconsidernew opportunities throughSouthern RuralWater’s recently announced Macalister Fresh Strategy,” he said.

Mr FitzGerald said Southern Rural Waterwas committed to working with partners, customers, and the community to unlock further economic, cultural and environmental benefits in Gippsland.

The Macalister Irrigation District Modernisation

Phase 2Project is jointly funded by Southern Rural Water, the federal government through the National Water Grid Fund and the state government.

The Macalister Irrigation District Modernisation Project began in 2013 and was broken into two phasestofocus on the mostimportantworkfor water savings and service improvements.

Phase 1A included construction of the Willang Yarn balancing storage in Denison, the upgrade of regulators in the Nambrok-Denison supply system and upgradestomost Eastern systemchannels and all Heyfield channels. Approximately 13.3 gigalitres in water savings was achieved. The works packagestarted in 2013 and finished in June2017. Phase 1B wasdelivered in four stages. This includedanew offtakeonthe Main Southern Channel, installation of 38km of new pipeline in the Southern Tinamba supply zone, and the upgrade of 28km of existing channels at Riverslea.An estimated 9600 gigalitres in water savings was achieved. The works package commenced in 2017 andwas completed in 2020.

Phase 2ofworks commenced in 2020 and included channel upgrades at Stratfordand Boisedale. Pipe was included in thevicinityofBoisdale-Newry Road and the Back Valencia Creek Road and old manual wheels were replaced with new modernised outlets at four locations. Three regulators were also upgraded in the MainNorthern Channel at Football Lane, Three Chain Road and Upper Maffra Road. The completion of the Newry Pipeline upgrades represent amajor milestone for Phase 2, butworks are ongoing, with more projects to be announced in the future.

Scholarships for bushfire-affected students

SCHOLARSHIPS totalling $217,500 have been awarded to students across East Gippsland who were heavilyaffected by the 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires.

Thisisthe third scholarship grantround of the East Gippsland Community Foundation, formed in 2021 to support the region’s long-term recovery from the2019-2020 Victorian bushfires

Eighteen of the scholarships are to new applicants, with eighteen roll oversfrom 2021and 2022 scholarship recipients who demonstrated acontinued need for financial support.

The executive officer of East Gippsland Community Foundation, Michelle Dowsett, said many applications were received, proving the need for financial support to studentsacross East Gippsland to further their education.

“The East GippslandCommunityFoundation scholarships wereavailable for students enrolled in registered training organisationsfor postsecondary studies in 2024," she said.

"Students have indicated that funds received will be utilised primarily for accommodation, travel,and living costs, which is understandable due to the relocation of many studentsfrom East Gippsland to metropolitan areas to study their chosen course.

"Many students are studying online from East Gippsland or returntoEastGippsland during semester break to work and reunite with families."

The chairperson, Barry Henwood,saidthe East GippslandCommunity Foundation intends to run ascholarship program again in 2025,

which may be the final year as promotion of East Gippsland-based business sponsored scholarships this year did not have the support required for along-term scholarship offering.

“We awarded scholarshipstostudentswho appeared to be the most heavily impacted by the 2019/2020 bushfires," he said.

"In several cases, successful applicants lost family homes in the fires, others suffered damage to farm properties,manystudentsand their families were evacuated, and many were impacted in the aftermath of the fires by not being able to secure paid part time workasa result of business closures and lack of tourism in the area.”

The 17.25 kilometres of pipeline, along with an additional five kilometres of customer connection pipeline, hasadaily distribution capacity the same size as 52 swimming pools Photos:

Construction on theNewryPipeline Project is nowcomplete following the decommissioning of legacy infrastructure

Ellinbank SmartFarm leading the way

Zaida Glibanovic

IT’Snot often the Federal Minister for Agriculture and aVietnamese government delegationfind their way to Gippsland.

Minister Murray Watt hosted afarm tour at the Ellinbank SmartFarm last weekfor international and Australian delegates from the ASEANAustralia Special Summit 2024.

The ASEAN delegates were certainly far from home, taking in the scenic views of the rolling pastures of the Ellinbank hills.

The Hon. Le Minh Hoan, Minister of Agriculture and Rural AffairsofVietnam, headed the delegation that learned of the innovative agricultural practices taking place in the region.

The Ellinbank SmartFarm is aleading dairy innovation facility, fast-tracking innovativetechnology solutions in aresearch environment -showcasing research to the dairy industry.

"Australia is known internationally for being a reliable supplier of high-quality produce, including from regions like Gippsland," Minister Watt said.

"We’re also becoming increasingly known for some of the cutting-edge research and technology thatwe’ve been taking forward in our ownfarming systems to become more efficient, more productive andmore sustainable,and we’re seeingincreasing interest in sharing thatknowledge and thatlearning from other countries as well."

One of the first carbon neutral grazing farms, Ellinbank SmartFarm,ishome to aherd of 450 cows and cutting edge technology. Trade talks didn't just centre on agriculture

products, as Minister Watt described Mr Hoan's interest in innovative farming research.

"They were very interested to hear about some of the researchbeing doneright here on the Ellinbank

SmartFarminthings like how you can reduce methane emissions from cattle, how you can use low carbon varieties of rice," Minister Watt said.

Minister Watt said that Vietnam is an integral

market for Australia's agricultural exports. Australian Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (AFF) productshavea strong and growing presence in Vietnam. In 2021/22, Australia exported arecord $3.4billionofAFF products to Vietnam, a39.2per cent increase from the previous year.

The two Ministers discussed the potential of expanding the trade relationship further.

"The relationshipisfounded on some of those core exports like beef, wheat, barley, cotton, but there’sbeenrecentprogress also in anumberof horticulturalproducts," Minister Watt said.

Minister Watt said of Vietnam, with the booming middle class looking for higher quality, healthier and sustainable food, "regions like Gippsland and Australia in general is incredibly well-positioned to service that growing market."

"The Minister wasincredibly impressed withthe research and technology that he saw here in the dairy industry. We are undertaking some dairy exports to Vietnam, but Ithink we could expand that as well," Mr Watt said.

With Gippsland producers supplying about 20 per cent of the Australian dairy market, Minister Wattsaidthere willbeopportunitiesinthe future for Gippsland dairy to supply20per centofthe Vietnamese market.

The Agriculture Ministerremarked thatthe visit was productive, with opportunities for Australian researchers to discuss the supply needs of Asian agribusiness leaders.

FromMarch4to6,Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hosted leaders of ASEAN and TimorLeste for the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne.

Bank closures blind to digital exclusion

Stefan Bradley

REGIONAL bank closures are creating amajor barrier for remote and regional communities, especially remote First Nations communities, due to the lack of affordable and reliable internet, an RMIT report has found.

Led by RMIT and Swinburne University researchers in the ARC CentreofExcellencefor Automated Decision-Making and Society(ADM+S), the submission was made to the Senate inquiry into regional bank branch closures.

It found remote Indigenouscommunities still rely on face-to-face interactions with their banks, despite the growing prevalence of online banking.

The project leader and Distinguished Professor, Julian Thomas, said in-person interactions were especially important for complex banking tasks and tackling elder abuse, scams and fraud.

“The quality, reliability and cost of internet in remoteareasalsopose challenges for these communities, making going to abranch to speak to a person evenmore crucial,” Professor Thomas said. “By removing banks in regional areas, it potentiallydisadvantages an already vulnerable community from accessing basic necessities such as financial services, impacting their independence.”

Professor Thomas said better online safety was paramounttoimproving digital access and participation,but the infrastructure of reliable internet needed to be in place first.

“We can't expectthese communitiestolearn about online safety if they don’t have working internet to beginwith,”hesaid.

Previous RMIT research for the ADM+S Centre found remote Indigenous communitieswere among the most digitally excluded people in Australia.

The “Mapping the Digital Gap” 2023 Outcomes Report found abig gap in digital inclusion for First Nations people compared with other Australians, which widens substantially with remoteness.

The research showed about 43 per cent of the 1,545 FirstNationscommunitiesand homelands across Australia have no mobile service -including some with only ashared public phone or no telecommunications access -highlighting aneed for action to close the digital gap.

The studyhighlighted accessing digital technologieswas mostchallenginginremotecommunities due to limitedcommunications infrastructure, low household accessand patchy, congested mobile services.

With residents in remote communities typically on low incomes, 84 per cent of these respondents in the study used or shared amobile device, and 94 per cent of these used pre-paid services.

The high cost of pre-paid data and low household uptake of fixed broadband also led to big affordability issues.

The lead investigator and seniorResearch

Fellow, Dr Daniel Featherstone, said as banking, government and other services increasingly move online, it’s crucial that all Australians can effectively access and use digital technologies.

“We use these technologies to access essential services for health, welfare, financeand education, participate in social and cultural activities, follow news and media, as well as connect with family, friends, and the wider world,” he said.

Age is alsoasignificant factorindigital exclusion

Those over 75 years of age and those who did not complete secondary school continue to experience higher levels of digital exclusion, according to the Australian Digital Inclusion Index.

SenatorsMalcolm Roberts, Peter Whish-WIlson and Raff Ciccone question NAB’s witnesses at last year’shearing in Sale.

Photo: File

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries andForestry,MurrayWatt(right),with the Hon. Le Minh Hoan, Minister of Agricultureand RuralAffairs of Vietnam in Gippsland last week.

Photo: ZaidaGlibanovic

LILY

Heyfield Hospital Board of Management Seeking Expressions of Interest

Hospital was built in

to service the needs of Heyfield and its local catchment area, functioning as an 11-bed private hospital, linked with an aged care facility comprising 49 permanent and 2respitebeds.

Heyfield Hospital is owned by the local community and run by acommunity Board of Management under aManagement Agreement with Central Gippsland Health. The Boardispleased toinvite expressions of interest for Board Member positions. These positions provide an exciting opportunity to contribute to acommunity asset, and the provision of high quality services. Applicants will beconsidered for their capabilities, including personal and professional attributes, experience, knowledge and skills. To submit an expression of interest, please forward your CV with covering letter to Rebecca.gunning@cghs.com.au by COB

Friday 29 March, 2024.

GLaWAC is growing

The Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) represents the Traditional Owners of much of Gippsland, the Gunaikurnai people. If you're looking to use your skills in amore purposeful and rewarding way, come and join our team.

Aboriginal

Business Development Officer

The Aboriginal Business Development Officer provides key administrative support in the delivery of projects for GLaWAC's Economic Development team. The position provides effective and efficient administrative support relating to project management, financial processes and business services.

The Aboriginal Business Development Officer will provide exceptional customer service and administrative support to the Economic Development team and all internal and external stakeholders.

The successful candidate will:

● Support the Renewable Energy program to achieve outcomes aligned to renewable energy transition

● Support the promotion of First Nations engagement to enable self-determination

● Work with Gunaikurnai community to build understanding, participation and relationships to enablestrong engagement and participation.

GLaWAC considers that being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage is agenuine occupational requirement for this position under s28 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic.)

Applications close: Thursday 14th March

For more information visit www gunaikurnai org or contact Mardi Edwards at jobs@glawac.com.au

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Situations Vacant •

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Ritchies

We are

Caravans

GODDARD (nee Wright), Diane Lesley of Sale.

29/10/1961 -8/3/2024.

Daughter of Les and Janet Wright (both dec.). Sister to Lynda and Carol (dec.). Loved mother of Dale, Hayley and Bowen. Aloved mother-in-law and Nana.

We feel so sad when those we love are touched by death's dark hand, But it would ease our sorrow if we could understand, That death is just a gateway, that we all must pass through. And on the other side of death, is aworld that's bright and new, Our loved ones wait to welcome us, to the land free from all tears, Where joy becomes eternal, and time is not counted by years. Our loving thoughts attend you on yournew adventure.

Love Dale, Hayley and families.

This day dawns with sad regret. Gone are the days we used to share, but in our hearts you are always there.

Love you mum. Bowen and Sarah.

Di, At peace after along health battle. Glad we were able to remain friends. Wayne.

HEYWOOD, (nee Beecher) Jean Rose 24.3.1935-06.3.2024

Wife of Keith. Mother of Russell, Jennifer, Trevor and families.

Now at Peace

Passed away peacefully at Wilson Lodge. Thank you to the caring staff.

Wife of Keith for 67 years.

See you later Jean.

Bye from Keith R.I.P.

Passed away peacefully at Wilson Lodge, Sale on March 6, 2024.

Lovedmotherand mother-in-law of Russell and Christine Cherished Grandmother of Lachlan (dec.) and Sophie, Darcy and Cove.

Your body was weary but your mind was switched on until your last days. Resting peacefully next to Lachlan.

♥ Mother of Jennifer. Mother-in-law of Brian. We will remember all the good times.

R.I.P

McLAUGHLIN (nee Brown), Margaret Elizabeth (Mardi) Of Stratford.

Passed away peacefully at the Sale Hospital on March 9, 2024.

Aged 92 years.

Loved wife of Ron (dec.) and loved mother of Rod. My dearly loved Mum, I am broken hearted. Now at peace and re-united with Dad. -Love Rod.

Loved sister of Geoffrey (dec.), Kevin (dec.), and Pamela.

McLAUGHLIN (nee Brown), Margaret. AKA -Mardi Passed away at Sale Hospital 9/3/24. Dear sister of Pam and Neil (dec.).

Loving memories.

Bye Sis.

Grandma

•

CAMPER Trailer, off-road, water tank and pump, elec. brakes, 12v batt. and 12v plugs, boat rack, erect trailer for tinny $6000 o.n.o. Ph 0488 301 283.

Trailers •

TRAILER, strong 7'x4'6'', front and back drop down trail gates, new mag wheels, tyres as new, LED lights, new jockey wheel $900. Ph 0434 913 630.

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS

GODDARD (nee Wright), Diane Lesley. Diane, my darling little sister, your path through life was not easy. Your indep ende nce and strength guided you on your journey. Memories of ahappy childhood,

Although we are sad that you have gone, we are glad you are now at peace. Thank you for all the Milos, Tic Tacs, movies and tea parties. Memories we will treasure forever.

To our dear Auntie Mard, You were the kindest mostcaring Auntie anyone could have. Thank you for always being such abeautiful person to us. We will be forever grateful.

Say Hi to Uncle Ron and Dad.

St Patrick's Catholic Primary School, Stratford

STARTING TERM 2, 2024

1xTEACHER (LOTE) (0.35 FTEOngoing)

St. Patrick's Primary School, Stratford is seeking an enthusiastic, dynamic and motivated individual to teach LOTE commencing on the

Italian has been taught in previous years, however other languages would be considered.

The successful applicant will need to demonstrate acommitment to Catholic Education and to the safety and wellbeing of all children. They will also possess the knowledge, skills and abilities to provide students with arich and rewarding educational experience. The successful applicants willembracea collaborative, team-based approach to teaching and learning. Applicants must hold acurrent Victorian Institute of Teaching Registration and Police Check. Permission to Teach (PTT) opportunities may be available. Please forward the Application for Employment form (found on our school webpage), your application letter and resume to Mr Joel Brayshaw.

jbrayshaw@stpstratford.catholic.edu.au

Applications close: Friday, 15th March, 2024 at 4pm.

2013 model, 19'6'', full annexe, shower, en-suite, washing machine, 3way fridge, QS bed, Hayman Reese towing over-ride, elec. brakes, microwave, revers ing camera, $38,000. 0408 472 540.

(size 1column x6cm)

Deaths •

DE HAAS, Marilyn. 9/2/2024

The Cap tai na nd members of the Stratford Fire Brigade mourn the passing of Marilyn De Haas. Marlyn was apast President of the Stratford Brigade Ladies Auxiliary. Our thoughts go out to brigade member Bruce and his family.

All our love, Julieanne, Melissa andParis, Lindsay and Stacey. Great Grandkids Ollie, William and Penny, Bridie, and Harry. xox

Loved and Loving Mum of Trevor.

Rest easy, lots of love Jenny, Neil, Kelsie, Claire and families.

Auntie Mard, such a strong, supportive person who remembered everything and cared for everyone.

Mother-in-Law to Louise. Grandma to Hollie, Charlie &Macala, Sam and Cheery. Great Grandma to Abbey, Franklin and Spencer. Rest in Peace Mum, Grandma.

MILLER, Iain McNeil. Much loved husband, father, brother, grandfather, surgeon and friend to many, peacefully at Sale on Tuesday March 5, 2024 Sorely missed.

MILLER, Iain Mr. Atrue gentleman and valued friend, your generous spirit and kind heart was strength to our family. We will always remember, and hold close all the years we shared. Lead kindly light dear friend. Dr. Iain Nicolson and family.

Your phone calls and visits will be greatly missed, such wonderful memories to cherish.

Loved by us all, Kym, Ken, James, Emma, Poppy, Lachy, Carley, Emi and Oakley.

Our beautiful, strong, kind and talented Auntie Mard …weabsolutely adore you and we will miss you so much. Thank you for leaving us with the most beautiful memories. Rest easy now with our beautiful Uncle Ronnie. We love you so much. -Nicki, Todd, Myah, Chloe and Marcus.

McLAUGHLIN,

Our dearest Mardi, We are so grateful that you became part of our family when we moved to McAlister St. 15 years ago. We won the neighbour lottery. We will cherish every moment we shared with you and will miss you terribly. Rest easy now with your beloved Ronnie. Lots of love -Jenni, Caitlyn and Jamie xx.

MOWAT, Jenny. My dearest friend and much more, no words can express how Iloved you. Always, in my heart forever. Love Anne and family.

PALIEW, Victor Michael Curt "Vic"

December 30, 1947 to March 3, 2024.

Passed away suddenly at home aged 76.

Cherished husband of Maureen.

Loved father and fatherin-law of Anthony and Lynda. Adored grandad of Jobe and Neve.

Beloved brother of Peter (dec.), Anne and Andrew. Reunited with his parents Ivan and Margarete. Gone Fishing

Vic, You were someone lcould talk to. That no one can replace. You were someone lcould laugh with 'til tears ran down my face. You were someone Icould turn to when l needed ahelping hand. You were someone Icould count on, to advise and understand. You were someone Ithought more of as each year came to and end.

You were my dearest husband and my dearest friend.

Thank youfor the memories that are yours and mine alone. For they recall so many special moments that you and Ihave known.

Love you Darl, Maureen.

Dad, With aheavy heart, I bid farewell to the extraordinary man you were.

Dad, you were not just a father but aguiding light, asteady presence throughout my life.

Your wisdom shaped my character, your laughter filled our home, and your voice offered comfort in times of need. You were my hero, my mentor, and my confidant.

Though you have left us, your spirit lives on in the memories we shared and the lessons you imparted.

Your legacy will continue to inspire me.

Rest peacefully, Dad, knowing you were cherished, admired and will always hold aspecial place in my heart.

Until we see each other fishing again.

Thanks for being my Dad.

Vic, With profound sorrow, I bid farewell to acherished father-in-law, whose gentle wisdom and nurturing spirit touched our lives deeply.

In addition to being a loving father, he was also an avid gardener, his green thumb guiding us through the seasons with sage advice and tender care.

Imourn the passing of a remarkable man who played asignificant role in our lives. Your guidance, wisdom, and warmth enriched our family in countless ways.

Your presence will be deeply missed, but your legacy of kindness and strength will live on in our hearts forever.

Rest in peace, Vic you will always be remembered with love and gratitude. Love Lynda.

PALIEW, Victor Michael Curt "Vic"

Grandad/Grumpy, In the quiet moments of the night, when we look up at the star-filled sky, we will feel your comforting embrace, knowing that you are watching over us from above. Your light shines brightly in the heavens, guiding us through life's uncertainties and illuminating our path with love and guidance. Though you may be physically gone, your spirit lives on in the countless memories we shared and the stars that grace the night sky. Rest peacefully, Grandad, knowing that you will forever be our guiding star shining brightly in our hearts. Wishing we had more nights together under our southern sky. Love always Jobe and Neve.

RAWNSON, Marie. 23/3/1936 -4/3/2024. Loved sister to Dorothy. Deepest sympathy to Maxine, Brian, Bronwyn, their partners and families. Dorothy Bertacchini and my family.

SMITH, Earl Gordon. 26/05/1947 -25/02/2024

Special party of the Miller family.

Loved and missed. Marie and George Miller(dec.) Dot and Steve, Rob and Ly, Andrew and Glenda, Lill and Steve, Peter and Jenny, Terry and Julie, Marian and Garry, Sharon and Kristian and all their families.

Funerals

RADULOVICH (nee Nikolich), Liliana 10/12/1943 -6/3/ 2024

Passed away in her sleep at Wilson Lodge, aged 80. Loved wife of Bob. Devoted mother of Robert and Lara. Grandmother to Darius and Deon.

Mother-in-law to Annie and Cameron. Forgivingsister to Slobodan (dec.) and Miriam.

Dear Liliana, 51 years ago Imet the the most stunningly beautiful girl -you were 28 and I was 23.

Not long after, in our Serbian Orthodox Church, before our Priest, our parents, family and friends we made acommitment that we shall endure life

For better or for worse; For richer or for poorer; In sickness and in health; Until death do us part. Ikept my promise, as I know you would've -ifthe situation were reversed. If Ilived 100 lifetimes and had to choose awife -I would choose you over and over again. Rest in peace, my love Your Bob.

Dearest "Little Mummy", Iknow you brought me into this world risking your life; Iknow Ihad to be kept in hospital for awhile but you refused to abandon my side and you have remained by my side throughout my life. Ican still feel your love for me and hope you felt mine for you. You were the kind of mother everychild deserves.

Love Your son Robie.

RAWNSON, (nee Anton), Marie. 23/03/1936-02/03/2024

Our hearts are broken, but so full of happy memories. We'll miss your laugh, jokes, hugs, coffee time chats and seeing your joy in the mayhem of family get-togethers, especially with your Great Grandies. Thanks Mum /Nanny. Forever in our hearts.

Brian, Linda, Melissa, Krystal, Chelsea, Axel, Evie, Jaxon, Lucy, Xavier, Brad, Jarryd and Adam.

RAWNSON, Marie (nee Anton)

Mum it's hard to put into words everything you meant to us. Iwill miss our chats and our trips to the nursery. Iknow you will be at peace now that you are with dad. Nan thanks for all the laughs, fun and love, we will miss you.

Maxine, Alf, Waynne, Tracy and Pino.

McLAUGHLIN (nee Brown). The funeral of Mrs Margaret Elizabeth (Mardi) McLaughlin is appointed to leave Holy Trinity Anglican Church, McFarlane St., Stratford after aservice commencing at 11am on SATURDAY (March 16, 2024) for the Stratford Lawn Cemetery.

MILLER

In accordance with his wishes, aprivate family service for Iain McNeil Miller will be held. Amemorial service will be held at alater date.

•

DRANE (nee Hill)

The funeral service for Mrs JaniceMargaret Drane will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 1pm TOMORROW Wednesday (March 13, 2024). Followed by aprivate cremation.

Please see our website for Livestream Details In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fight Parkinson's.

MOWAT.

The funeral service for Ms Jeanine Frances 'Jenny' Mowat will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 11.30am on THURSDAY (March 14, 2024) followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

Please see our website for Livestream Details

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sale Hospital.

FULFORD. The funeral of Mrs Julie Anne Fulford is appointed to leave St John's Anglican Church, cnr Church and Thomson St's Maffra after aservice commencing at 11am on MONDAY (March 18, 2024) for the Maffra Lawn Cemetery.

PALIEW. In accordance with his wishes, aprivate graveside service for Mr Victor Michael Curt "Vic" Paliew WAS HELD.

PRIDMORE. The funeral service for Mr Dougla sG ordon Pridmore will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 1.30pm TODAY (Tuesday March 12, 2024) followed by aprivate cremation.

Funeral Directors

GODDARD (nee Wright).

RADULOVICH, (nee Nikolich). The funeral service for Mrs Liliana Radulovich will be held at St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral, Cunninghame Street, Sale at 1pm NEXT TUESDAY (March 19, 2024), followed by burial at the Sale Monumental Lawn Cemetery.

For funeral arrangements for Ms Diane Lesley Goddard please visit our website or contact: GP1666007

HEYWOOD, (nee Beecher) The funeral service for Mrs Jean Rose Heywood will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 11am on SATURDAY (March 16, 2024) Followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

Please see our website for Livestream details

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Australian Cancer Research Foundation.

Celebrating life...with care.

30 &A

BairnsdalevTraralgon(March30)

MoevMorwell(April6)

LeongathavTraralgon

BairnsdalevDrouin

WarragulvWonthaggi

MaffravSale

Round2,April 13

MorwellvBairnsdale

TraralgonvMoe(N)

SalevWarragul

DrouinvMaffra

WonthaggivLeongatha

Round3,April 20 &21

WonthaggivMorwell(April20)

MoevSale

MaffravLeongatha

WarragulvDrouin(April21)

BYE-Traralgon, Bairnsdale

Round4,April 27

MorwellvDrouin

LeongathavMoe

TraralgonvWarragul(N)

BairnsdalevMaffra

SalevWonthaggi

SEASON FIXTURE

DrouinvSale

LeongathavWarragul

Round6,May 11

MorwellvLeongatha

MoevDrouin

SalevTraralgon

WonthaggivMaffra

WarragulvBairnsdale

Round7,May 25

MorwellvWarragul

MaffravMoe

DrouinvTraralgon

LeongathavSale

BairnsdalevWonthaggi

LeongathavWonthaggi

MaffravBairnsdale

Round14, July 20

WonthaggivTraralgon

BairnsdalevMoe

MorwellvMaffra

SalevDrouin

WarragulvLeongatha

Round15, July 27

LeongathavMorwell

DrouinvMoe

TraralgonvSale

MaffravWonthaggi

BairnsdalevWarragul

Round8,June1

SalevMorwell

TraralgonvMaffra

WarragulvMoe

LeongathavBairnsdale WonthaggivDrouin

Round9,June8 &9

MoevWonthaggi(June8)

BairnsdalevSale MaffravWarragul

DrouinvLeongatha

MorwellvTraralgon(June9)

Round10, June15&16

MorwellvWonthaggi(June15)

SalevMoe

TraralgonvBairnsdale

LeongathavMaffra

DrouinvWarragul(June16)

Round11, June22

BairnsdalevMorwell

WarragulvTraralgon

MoevLeongatha

MaffravDrouin

WonthaggivSale

Round12, June29

MorwellvMoe

TraralgonvLeongatha DrouinvBairnsdale

WonthaggivWarragul

SalevMaffra

Round16, August 3

MoevMaffra

WarragulvMorwell

TraralgonvDrouin

WonthaggivBairnsdale

SalevLeongatha

Round17, August 17

MorwellvSale

MaffravTraralgon

MoevWarragul

BairnsdalevLeongatha DrouinvWonthaggi

Round18, August24

TraralgonvMorwell

WonthaggivMoe

SalevBairnsdale

WarragulvMaffra

LeongathavDrouin

FINALSSERIES

QualifyingFinal,August31

EliminationFinal,September1

2ndSemiFinal,September7

1stSemiFinal,September8

PreliminaryFinal,September14

GrandFinal,September21

Championshipbliss for local father-daughtertriathletes

ErikaAllen

ACRISP morning greetedtriathletes at Elwood Beach on Sunday, March 3, for Race 5ofthe iconic 2XU Triathlon Series,also doubling as the Victorian Sprint Championships.

Eight local competitors from the RivieraTriathlon Club (RTC) were undeterred by the chilly winds, tackling the challenging conditions withtheireyes set on apodium finish.

Among some 1200 athletes,Sale’sown father and daughterduo, Simon and Mia Whitford, were crowned Victorian SprintChampions in their age divisions.

Mia won the 15-19 Female Sprint while Simon was the victorinthe 55-59Male Sprint.

Contrary to its name, the Sprint distance is no walk in the park; instead, it presents achallenging combination of a750mocean swim, 20km cycle, and a5km run along the Elwood foreshore.

Simon Whitford told the Gippsland Times the swimwas especiallychallenginggiven the choppy conditions.

The Gippsland Bowls Region Junior Development Squad and the Gippsland Geckos under 18 Squad are accepting applications FOR YOUNG BOWLERS (with or without experience) aged between 10 and 18 years Further information located on the Gippsland Geckos Facebook and Gippsland Regions website: www gbrbowls com au If you would like to give this popular noncontact sport a go, please contact Nigel

Whitford faced aformidablefield of 33 competitors, but wasundeterred by the competition as he established his dominance from the get-go,surging ahead in the swim leg and securing asignificant lead of about one minute and forty-five seconds going into the cycle.

Not content with just astrongstart,Whitford propelled himself into acomfortable lead by posting the fastest cycle leg, seamlessly transitioning into the run to clinch victory.

Likefather like daughter, Mia also usedthe cycle leg to assert her lead.

After emerging from the arduous swim leg in fourth place, young Whitford swiftly closedthe gap during the initial transition to the bike.

It was this phase where Mia found her strongest form,capturing the lead, and clocking the fastest time for this section by over one and ahalf minutes.

Whitford said his daughter will continue training

at season’s end for the Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast to be held at Mooloolaba Beach on September 8. Mia will compete in ahalf Ironman event with world qualifying potential.

GeorgiaMartin, another female competitor representing RTC, secured arespectable 4th place in the Female 15-19 Sprint.

RTC who hosted of the recent Maffra Triathlon covered by the Gippsland Times in February, made astrong showing at the championships, with familiar faces among the competitors.

The Vardy name, which has becomesynonymous with success at triathlons at the state and national level, was upheld by great results from Arki, Obi and Ryan.

Arki was the runner-up in the 15-19 Male Sprint race, while Ryan, who competed in astacked field with 70 other athletes, placed 25th in the 45-49 Male Sprint.

Young gun Obi placed 6th in the Elite Youth division.

Thefastest overall result for the RTC came from BenOsmand, who was the 48th male to cross the line out of 880 that competed.

He completedthe course in atimeof1:04:21, placing him 4th in his age division -the 40-44 Male Sprint. RTC is currently sitting in avery respectable11th position in the Victorian club point series overall.

There are atotal of 85 triathlon clubs involved.

“Forthe size of the (Riviera Triathlon) Club compared to the Melbourne powerhouse clubs that have hundreds of members, we’re doing very well,” Whitford said.

There are more team points, as well as individual points up for grabs at Race 6ofthe 2XU Triathlon Series on Sunday, March 24, as the event moves down the coastline to Sandringham.

It is both the final event in the series and the final event of the season for the triathletes.

Harry Whitford, who, you guessed it, is Simon's son and is just 14 years old, also competed in the Elite Youth division.

Whitford was the runner-up,posting asolidtime of 1:07:56.

SemiFinalaction to begininWGTA

Wellington Gippsland Tennis Association

Semi Finals Fixtures

Semi Finals -Saturday, March 16

Seniors

Section 1atMaffra Lawn Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Maffra Gippsland Real Estate v Maffra Wellington Real Estate

Semi-final 2: Sale KFC vSaleDahlsens

Semi-final 1: Sale Central Storage vLongford

Semi-final 2: Stratford vSaleFindex

Section 3atBriag Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Briagolong vMaffra Stobies

Semi-final 2: Stratford vHeyfield-Longford

Juniors

Section 1atBairnsdale Tennis Club

Section 2atSale Tennis Club

Sudoku No.0201

Crossword No.8577

Semi-final 1: Bairnsdale vSale Sambuilt

Semi-final 2: Sale Intersport vMaffra

Section 2atSale Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Sale Dawson Street Food vMaffra

Semi-final 2: Briagolong-Stratford vSale Ideal

Hearing Section 3atHeyfield Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Heyfield vMaffra

Semi-final 2: BairnsdaleRafters vSaleRiviera

Signs

Section 4atSale Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Sale Phillipsons vStratford

Semi-final 2: Sale Ashwood Homes vSale

GippslandMortgage Solutions

Section 5atSale Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Sale Gippsland Custom Pools v Sale Highgrove Bathrooms

Semi-final 2: Sale Graze Family Bistro v Bairnsdale

Section 6atBairnsdale Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Bairnsdale Hewitt vMaffraAces

Semi-final 2: Heyfield vSale Specsavers

Section 7atBairnsdale Tennis Club

Semi-final 1: Bairnsdale vMaffra

Semi-final2:Longford vSaleMansi on Raymond

Target Time No.0201

deed, deep, deist,depose, deposed, deposit,DEPOSITED, depot,depside, despite, despot,died, diet,dieted, diode, dope, doped, dose, dosed, dote, doted, eddo, edit,edited, epidote, episode, epode, epos, espied, estop, oddest, oped, peso, pest,pesto, pide, pied, piste, poet,poetise, poetised, poise, poised, pose, posed, posited, posted, seed, seep, sept,side, sided, site, sited, sped, speed, spied, spite, spited, steed, steep, step, stied, stipe, stope, teed, tepid, tide, tided, tied, toed, tope, toped, topee, topside.

Target: Average -36, Good -44, Excellent -58+

MiaWhitfordpowered to victory in theSprint Championship. Photos:Contributed

Simon Whitford(middle) wasthe first across thelineinafield of 33 from around Victoria including runner-up Michael Pratt (left) and thirdGordon Durnan(right).

Section 2Sale Findex’s Di Arnot will do battle against Stratfordthis weekend.

Photos: Robin Lowe

Riviera Triathlon Club athletes (fromleft)

Simon Whitford, Ben Osmand, Ryan Vardy, Arki Vardy, andMia Whitford.

Section 1SaleKFC’s ReggieVirgo will need to musterall the backhand power she can against SaleDahlsens this Saturday.

Local AFL stars begin season

TomHayes

AFTER 158long days without AFL,it’snow finally that time of year again.

Opening Round got the 2024 season underway, which saw four games in the two rugby league states of New South Wales and Queensland.

YARRAM’S Josh Dunkley was the first local to touch the turf this season, when he lined up for Brisbane as they hosted Carlton at the Gabba.

The Lions had only lost eight of their past 60 matches at the Gabba before their latest encounter with the Blues and were heavy favourites heading into the match.

The home side was out of the blocks quickly and it looked like it could get ugly for Carlton, going down by 32 points at the first break.

Brisbane continued astrong showing,extending their lead to as muchas46points in the second quarter,before Carlton kicked two late majors before half time to trail by 31 points.

Both sides suffered injury setbacks at half time, with Brisbane’s Keidean Coleman goingdown with what turned out to be an ACL injury. Carlton’s Sam Docherty suffered the same but returned to

the field beforebeing subbed off at the main break

Ashamefor both players;Coleman is such an exciting prospect with ahugepotential, while for Docherty it’s another setback on his long list, which includes two ACL injuries and testicular cancer.

Dunkley was abull in the firsthalf, as Brisbane’s pressure was through the roof, holding the Blues to four goals in the first half was simply impressive.

Carlton didn’t stay down for long, kicking the first six goals of the thirdterm, astoundinglytakingthe lead midway through the quarter. From 46 points down to leading the game.

Agoal to either side on the stroke of three-quartertime saw the lead change twice, atheme to come in the final term.

Both teamskickedtwo goals in the final term, going tit-for-tat, with the lead changing seven times from the last seven goals of the game.

Carlton took the lead with aminute to go when HarryMcKay kicked truly fromthe arctosend Brisbane into an all-or-nothing state.

The ball stayed in Brisbane’s half for the remainder of the game, but the Lions couldn’t register a score to level the match at least, Carlton claiming abig scalp away from home by defeating Brisbane, 13.8 (86) to 12.13 (85).

Despite the result, Dunkley was impressive as he always is against the Blues, racking up 21 disposals, ninetackles and five marks,finishing the game as the second-highest ranked player on the field.

JUST like the first Preliminary Final rematch, the loser last time out, was the victor this time around.

GWS got their revengeover Collingwood, in what was aheated affair on and off the field.

Comments fromCollingwood ruckman Mason Cox aboutthe Giants’ home ground, Engie Stadium, as “a showground for livestock” prompted GWS to set-up apetting zoo.

It didn’t end there for Cox, who was issued a ‘please explain’ by the AFL, for making contact with GWS ruck coach Shane Mumford pregame.

It was an entertaining game early on, with tempers flaring in little spot fires all over the ground. The biggest was betweenthe two numberfours: Brayden Maynard and Toby Greene.

The Giants went up by eight at the end of the firstterm, andextending late in the second quarter, going out to 19-point leaders at half time.

From there, in the second half it soon got out of hand for the reigning premier, who didn’t kick a goal in the third term, while GWS kicked four to

hold a40-point lead as the siren blew for threequarter time.

Yet, this wasn’t completely out of the realms of possibility for the Magpies, who were known for acomeback or two in seasons past. Their biggest comeback from athree-quarter time deficit last season was only 28 points however, against Essendon on Anzac Day.

Collingwood did outscore GWSinthe final term, butonlyjust, as GWS held on to claim a32-point win, 18.6 (114) to 11.16 (82).

Pendlebury didn’tspend much time on the ground (62 per cent), but still managed to claim plenty of the footy. He finished with 18 disposals, eight marks andfiveclearances.

IN other Opening Roundmatches Sydney hosted Melbourneatthe SCG in the first game of the season. The Swans defeated theDemons in a dominant last quarter to win by 22 points, 12.14 (86) to 9.10 (64).

The Gold Coast Suns are off to ashooting start, completely obliterating Richmond by 39 points, 14.15 (99) to 9.6 (60). The Suns dominant at home, so much so, they led by as much as 67 points late in the second quarter.

Big crowd expected for big Saleboxingevent

THE countdown is on to another huge night of local boxing.

Stratford professional Max Reeves will return home next week to defend his Aussie Super Middleweight Title.

Reeves is set to take on Adrian Rodriguez for the title, and box in front of what is expected to be asell-out crowd at the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex, Sale.

The 23-year-old is still unbeaten in professional bouts, currently holding an 8-0 record.

'Mad Max' has spent time in Thailand preparing forthe fight, and said "everything is going to plan" in the lead-up to the bout.

Brisbane-basedRodriguez is 10 yearsolderthan Reeves, and carries a13-7 record.

Reeves is predicting abruising encounter, but hoped the home town support would help him maintain his unbeaten record.

This will be Reeves' third fight at the GRSC, which is becoming an annual event for the local.

As well as Reeves, there will be anumberof locals on the card at Wildfighter, most notably Maffra Football-Netball Club senior captain Daniel Bedggood and Sale FNC senior coach Jack Johnstone.

The pairwill be amajor drawcard forthe event, trading the footy boots for boxing gloves.

Joining Reeves will be fellow pro Blake Wells, fighting Arnel Tinampayfor the middleweight title.

Wells, from Bairnsdale, is moving from super middle to middleweight for the first time in five years.

Salepro Jhon Cortejos will alsobeinaction, taking on Lachie Lewis.

Wildfigher The Champ Is Here will be held on Saturday, March 23 from 6pm.

Tickets are still available, but selling fast. Visit wildfighter.com.au/events to secure your spot.

Wildfighter promoter and retired Bairnsdale proboxer Will Tomlinson,hopes to seeabig crowd at the GippslandRegional Sports ComplexnextSaturday.

The Gippsland League Light Heavyweight championship willbefought between Maffra Football-Netball Club senior captain Daniel Bedggood and Sale FNCseniorcoach Jack Johnstone. Photos:Liam Durkin

Yarram’s Josh Dunkleyand Carlton captain Patrick Cripps go at it duringthe AFL OpeningRound. Photos:AFL Photos

GWSpoked fun at Mason Cox’s commentsabout Engie Stadium being a“showground for livestock”, settingupa petting zoo outside the ground.

Concussion protocols at country level

TomHayes

STRONGER concussion protocols have been announced by the AFL, which affect country league football.

In the announcement, the AFL said it would retain theirmandatory12-day return-to-play concussion protocol at AFL and AFLW level, yet wouldenforceprolonged periods for any level below AFL or AFLW.

The decision sees players that are concussed at any level below AFLorAFLW level administer to a21-day return-to-play protocol.To clarify,aplayer would be able to return to play on the 21st day at the earliest, meaning they would miss two weeks of football.

Not only does this include VFL and VFLW, but alsothe Gippsland League,North Gippsland Football-Netball League, and East Gippsland FNL.

The AFL’s new protocols align with the recommendations made by the Australian Institute of Sport’s Concussion and Brain Health PositionStatementregarding concussion guidelines.

From alocal perspective,itbegs the question: how will it be enforced at acountry level?

Conversations with AFL Gippsland would suggest thatitwould be put on the clubs to enforce it upon someone who has received a head knock, meaning concussion training will be expected to be essential across all clubs.

From there, players would be checked by a medical professional as soon as possible, and if they have suffered aconcussion, they would enter concussion protocols.

It is understood thatclubs from the Gippsland League, NGFNL, and EGFNL have, or will, undergo meetings with AFL Gippsland to better understand the situation.

More to come.

Life membershipfor RK trio

ROSEDALE-KILMANY CricketClubinducted

three currentplayers as life membersatthe weekend.

Presentations were made to Rohan Diamond, Bradley Scott and Michael Walters at the Warriors’ Past Players and Sponsors Day.

The presentationswere made in the presence of seven RKCC Life Members, and they joined a prestigious group who have assisted and helped shape the club.

RKCCPresident, Ricky Leeson congratulated the trio on their honours, and thanked them for their service.

“Three young gentlemen thathave committed themselves to the club on and off field for the past 10 years,” he said.

“Congratulations to all threeplayerscombining to play over 500 games, holdingvariousroles, captain, coaching, committee,curator, premiership players, clubman, and all round three great blokes.”

THE 45thannualGJLynchShieldcricket matches were played recently, hosted by Longford Cricket Club.

The day sees sixteams from withinEssocompete against each otherina 10-over formatcricket match.

Theteams this year were Wellwork, Offshore, Longford Plant,Docklands, Logistics and Decommissioning.

The teams came together, and after breakfast and some administrative tasks, utilised the Rotary Reserve, the GeorgeWilson Ovaland Stephenson Park to battle it out for braggingrights for another year.

All teamswerecompetitive and played four matches before the Grand Final.

The Grand Finalwas contested between Wellwork and Longford Plant, with Wellwork requiring two runs off the last ball.

Local JimmyDean,playing for Wellwork,hit the ball for four, securing atightly-contested victory.

COLLEGIANS CRICKET CLUB END OF AN ERA FINALSRUN

2014/15Fifth

2015/16Semi-finalist

2016/17Premier

2017/18Premier

2018/19Semi-finalist

2019/20 Semi-finalist

2020/21Semi-finalist

2021/22 Semi-finalist

2022/23 Premier

2023/24 Sixth

The GJ Lynch Shield, played for between teams from Esso, hosted by LongfordCricket Club. Photo: Contributed

Rosedale-Kilmany Cricket Club Life Members, (back) KenAnderson, BradleyScott, IanSouthall, Geoff Kinnish, (front) Al Farley, BrettWallace, Rohan Diamond, Michael Walters, IanFreshwater and MichaelLove.

Newlyinducted Rosedale-Kilmany Cricket Club LifeMembers, Rohan Diamond,Michael‘SOS’ Walters and BradleyScott. Photos:Fiona Nicholson

Home semi decided by .028

Liam Durkin

THE end of the Sale-Maffra Cricket Association regular season finished in some anticlimax, with the top four remaining unchanged from the start of the round.

While there wasanumber of hypotheticalson the cards leading into Round 14, therewas no last-gasp efforts that came to fruition.

In the washup, Salefinishedontop for the second season in arow, while Yarram secured the other home final on offer.

ThePelicans won their last two home-and-away gamestoqualify for finals in theirfirstseason in the SMCA,and Stratfordwon their virtual elimination final at the weekend to continue their finals run.

The Redback'svictory came at the expense of fellow SMCA powerhouse Collegians, who (unthinkably) ended up finishing sixth-their lowest return since 2013/14.

Needing to win the last game to play finals, the reigning premier will not be taking part in finals for the first time since 2014/15.

Bundalaguah had afinalsspotsewnupheading into the round, but by virtue of having abye, lost the chance to host asemi-final afterYarram'swin.

OF allthe things Stratford has achieved on field, its greatest off field accomplishment in recent years is surely gettingJackTatt back in aRedbacks shirt.

Aftertaking five-faonDay 1, JackTatterson virtually single-handedly sent Stratford into the finals on Day 2, makinga blistering 98 against Collegians.

While hiseffortfelljust short of acentury,it was 98 made rather than 100 lost as far as the Redbacks were concerned, and saw them chase the 164 required inside 40 overs.

Tattersonstarted the day on 29 not out, and had Lachlan Channingon20asthe other unbeaten

SMCAFINALSSERIES

Saturday, March 16 -Sunday, March 17

SEMI FINALS

FIRSTGRADE

Sale vs Stratford (at Sale Oval)

Yarram vs Bundalaguah (Yarram Rec)

SECOND GRADE

Maffra vs Stratford (Cameron Oval 1)

Bundalaguah vs Sale (Col Wrigglesworth Oval)

THIRD GRADE

Bundalaguah vs Longford (Bundy synthetic)

WurrukvsNambrok (WurrukCricket

Ground)

FOURTH GRADE

Maffra vs Collegians (Cameron Oval 2)

Bundalaguah vs Boisdale-Briagolong (Cameron Oval 3)

FOURTH GRADE DIV 2

Stratford vs Heyfield (Pine Lodge)

Sale vs Rosedale-Kilmany (Stead St)

batsmen for company, after doing the hard yards.

Channing was only able to add six runs to his overnight score, but Tattersonthen partneredwith Cormac Hassett, as thepair set aboutchewing into the total.

Hassett, identified by Stratfordinsiders as akey inclusion backtothe club this season, providedtop support for Tatterson, and saw the day outwith 25 red to hisname off 66 balls

Tatterson meanwhile just kept finding gaps at StratfordRecreation Reserve, and the boundary, as his 98 was made up of 12 fours and one maximum off 107 balls.

The Redbackswere only two down when they passed the total, making any other result virtually impossible.

With this in mind, players shook hands and called it aday -Stratford for aweek, Collegians for the next six months.

Having negotiated some trickyperiods during the middle of the season, the Redbacks have come good in the last few rounds, and now appear to have everything lined up ready for finals.

Everything relates to the entire club, as Stratford's Second XI also qualified in similar circumstances to the firsts, needing to win the last game of the regular season.

Throw in the FourthXI, and the Redbacks suddenly have afull quota of teams, and possibly players, to choose from.

For aclub that appeared to stumble through large parts of the season and go through ashopping list of players, to still getall three teams in finals is an absolutely noteworthy effort.

Now that they are in finals, this is the time Stratford generally shines,and afourth place finish will matter little in their bid to make the Grand Final.

While theywould need to defy history to do so (only two clubs have doneitsince 2003/04) -if any team is going to win aflag from fourth, it is Stratford.

Especially when they have Pete Morrison as their coach.

Morrison has takenSale footballsides from outside the double chance all the way to the last game in the last two seasons.

There canbelittle doubt he,Redbacks captain Jack Rietschel and vice-captain Tatterson will be intricately plottingthe next fortnight with military precision to give themselves the best chance.

YARRAM pinched second spot at the death.

The Pelicans 68-run win over Rosedale-Kilmany was enough to see them jump Bundalaguah by a mere 0.028 per cent on the final home-and-away ladder.

Such an outcome may have carried deja vu connotations from the Bulls, who missed finals by a similar split percentageinseason 2019/20, although for their sake, at least this time they have made the post-regular season.

Yarram meanwhile have come from nowhere in the lasttwo rounds, and now haveahome final secured.

ThePelicans lookedlike they weren'teven going to make finalsthree rounds ago, but fortunately for them, they have abloke called Anthony Scott in their team.

Scott peeled off ascarcely believable 194 out of 272 in the penultimate round against Collegians, and

then made 77 against the Warriors in this game. His effort saw Yarram post 201 on Day 1, which proved to be too many for Rosedale-Kilmanyat home.

With finals out of the equation, the sight of the entire Warriors middle order goingout bowled was probably indicative of asidewho had mentally checked out on season 2023/24.

DylanRowleywas the only player to make some sort of contribution, scoring 27.

Yarram captain Jeremy Babb continued on his wicket-taking ways, finishing with great figures of 5/66 off 23.4 overs.

He received good support from Daniel O'Keefe, who nabbed 3/22.

WOULD you be slightly concerned if you were Sale?

While the Swans won at the weekend, and collected the minor premiership as aresult, they lost nine wickets in doing so against Maffra.

Commencing Day 2chasing 203 at Cameron SportingComplex, the visitors were in early trouble at 2/13, before Shaun Wolmarans and Ben Jones steered the side out of trouble.

Wolmarans made abusy42off 57 balls,while Jones scored 50, but was dismissed not long after raising the bat.

The wicket of Jones left Sale still needing 101 to win with five wickets in hand.

Asteady 55-run partnership between Garreth Wolmarans and Matt Raidal was broken when the former was bowled by Ben Durrant, which lead to aprocession of wickets.

Raidal was then required to pretty much save the innings, as the Swans slipped to 8/174 having lost 3/18.

He reached agutsy half-century, but he too fell to Durrant, leaving the visitors still 21 agonising runs short.

For the second gameinarow, Hayden Glover found himself involved in anerve-killing last wicket partnership, only this time, he had Dan Padula at the other end.

Padula, the team's wicket-keeper, who had only batted three times previously this season, played arguablythe most important innings of his first grade career to date, holding firm with Glover until the winning runs were scored in the 67th over.

Glover remainednot out on 17,netting ahuge sigh of relief from all in the Swans nest.

Durranttook 3/55 to end the season with 29 wickets -the second-most in the league behind Jack Tatterson.

Lee Hopkins (2/13), Lachie Dowd(2/34)and Blake Rowley (2/39) were also productive.

The Eagles will have reason to be optimistic next season, havingbeatenfinals-bound Bundalaguah, and gotten within one wicket of Sale.

Meanwhile, Sale will seriouslybehoping they haven't lucked-out right on the eve of finals.

The Swans have won their last two games by one wicket,and returned first innings scoresof102 and 141 in two of their last three hits.

As stupidasitsounds,and in the absolute greatest respect to Sale -isthe most out of form team in fact the one that’s finished on top?

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG will feel they are on the right path.

The Saints ended the season in fifthposition, pretty much meeting preseason expectations of

playing-coach Adrian Burgiel, who said before the seasonthe sidewas aimingtofinishinthe "bottom half of the top four".

Keeping in mind Boisdale-Briagolong are in a rebuilding phase, amidtable finish in their first season under anew regime should provide evidence to suggest the Saints could climb into finals next season.

The Saints'sort of could've' madefinals this season if they won the last matchofthe season outright and the Yarram/RK game went the way of Rosedale-Kilmany.

It didn't,and Boisdale-Briagolong didn't win outright either, but toasted afirst innings victory nonetheless.

The Saints made 256 in response to the Lizards' 180,spearheadedbyMick Roberts making 63, Dylan Bolton 60 and Kev Renecke 54.

Lachlan Floyd was again the Lizards' linchpin, taking 5/72. The Longford captain has carried the attack at timesthis season, with this his thirdfive wicket haul forthe season, surely putting him in Team of the Year calculations.

Boisdale-Briagolong only took 47.1 overs to establish alead of 76, and rolled the dice by sending Longford back in.

The Lizards knocked off most of the deficit, getting to 3/69 before it became clear there was nothing more to play for.

Bolton added two final wickets to his season tally, taking 2/47.

The Saints skipper could feel hard done by this season,asa threerun loss to Collegians before Christmas ended up potentially costing his side afinals berth.

Had they have won that, they would have ended the season on the same number of points as Stratford.

Longford meanwhile, perhaps unjustly, claimed thewooden spoon, despite aseasonthat saw them beatYarram and Stratfordboth on theirhome deck.

The Lizards continue to fight the good fight playing first grade, but the unfortunate reality is they do keep finishing last most seasons.

BUNDALAGUAH had the bye.

SALE-MAFFRA CRICKET

Thursday,

ErikaAllen

WELLINGTON Gippsland Tennis Association Finals are finally here.

Followinga week-longbreak for juniors and seniors, the top four teams in each sectionwill compete for acoveted spot in the semi-finals this weekend.

The semi-final matches will unfold at five locations, including Sale, Maffra, Heyfield, Briagolong, and Bairnsdale, with the higher-ranked teams in each section enjoying ahome-court advantage.

In the seniors' Section 1, Maffra and Sale each have two teams competing for aspotinthe final, ensuring aMaffra-Saleshowdown whenMarch 23 rolls around.

But that means teams will have to put their familiarity aside as compatriots and do battle against each other.

It promises to be an intense day as Maffra Gippsland Real Estate(GRE) facesoff against Maffra Wellington Real Estate (WRE), battling

Edging closer

Sale’s ScottPendlebury clocked on for his 19th AFL season last Saturdaynight,and moved to sixth on the all-time list for games played. The Collingwood champion played game number 384, going past St Kilda greatRobertHarvey.

AFL EXPORTS-PAGE27

No avoiding aSalevsMaffra tennis GF

for supremacy between the first and fourth-ranked teams on home turf.

MaffraGRE hascarried the weight of high expectations throughout the season, establishing themselves as early favourites and maintaining their front-runner status until Round 15.

Now, they have atargetontheir backs as the team to beat.

GRE exudes confidence as they enter the upcoming clash, havingbrushed off WRE twice with5 sets to 3victories on both occasions.

Neither team lacks experience at this stageof the season, and they will not underestimate the possibility that anythingcan happen in the finals.

GRE's Mitch Allmanand Josh Kennedy have showcased their mettle against some of the association's top players, consistently winning with relative easeand establishing themselves as an accomplished doubles pair.

The duo has secured victories in straight sets in all 11 games they've played together.

The pair's unbeaten streak was only challenged in Round 13 when they faced aformidable matchup

against Tim Dunnett and Anthony Glynn of Sale KFC, where the contest extended to alengthy third-set tiebreaker.

Trying to put astoptothe unbeatable AllmanKennedywillbeWRE's Mick Luke andShane Robbins,who will have to dig deep into their extensive tennis bag of tricks to pull off an upset.

In the second semi-final match for Section 1, Sale KFC, whichholds the second rank, will clash with Sale Dahlsens, whichsecured thethird position in the regular season standings.

IN the junior section, Bairnsdale boasts astrong presence in the finals. In Section 1, Bairnsdale secured the top position in the finalround of the regular season, earning them the advantage of hosting ahome-court semi-final against fourth-ranked Sale Sambuilt this Saturday.

The teams have met three times before, with Bairnsdale holding the edge over Sambuilt, having won their two most recentmatches convincingly in Round 7and 12

Dominating in their singles matchups, Bairnsdale

showcased their prowess against formidable players likeMilla Lazzaroand Aaron Donaldson,who will be keen to redeem themselves and find the form they had in Round 2whenthey triumphed over Bairnsdale.

Halting the momentum of an in-form team is achallenging endeavour, particularly when Bairnsdale carry the confidence and energy from asuccessfulRound 15.

However, finals offer aclean slate for teams like Sambuilt, who should never be disregarded against top teams.

Even though Ethan Sutherland and Campbell Scott of Bairnsdale are in excellent form,they must remain vigilant against the formidable duo of Donaldson and Sam Bertino.

In aprevious encounter in Round 12, Donaldson andBertino demonstratedtheir capability with a convincing 6-2 victory.

Also in Section 1, Sale Intersport will face rivals Maffra for aspot in the finals.

Finalsfixtures-Page26

Photo: AFL Photos