Gippsland Times Tuesday 2 January 2024

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TIME CALLED ON TIMBER

SUMMER HOT SPOT PAGE 4

The cessation of Victoria’s timber harv rvesting v industry ryy has arrived, aft fter t the state government moved the closure date to January ryy 1, 2024.

Photo: File

POLICE BEAT PAGE 16

FOOTBALL FIXTURES SPORT

END OF AN ERA Philip Hopkins

AS of January 1, Gippsland’s hardwood industry is now largely gone, with harvesting of timber from native forests on Crown land no longer permitted.

Gippsland’s native forest is part of the vast swathe of forest that stretches along the Great Dividing Range from the Dandenongs to behind Brisbane.

It’s integral to Australia having the seventh biggest forest estate in the world after Russia, Brazil, Canada, the US, China and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Victoria is still one-third forest, even after land clearing for agriculture and towns and cities.

These hardwood forests have provided Victorians with high quality timber for housing, such as framing, flooring and windows, and furniture - beds, dining tables, chairs, sideboards and kitchen fit-outs. Victorian Ash has been used in engineered wood as huge columns and beams that are as strong as steel.

Lower quality hardwood timber has become fences, garden stakes and pallets while traditionally; pulp was turned into white copy paper at Australian Paper’s Maryvale Mill. Most of these products were from timber processed in Gippsland.

The timber was largely harvested under the forestry science and sustainable practices that were developed in Germany in the 18th Century and then spread throughout much of the Western world. These practises were adapted to Australian conditions.

The state government’s decision under then Premier Daniel Andrews to close Victoria’s native forest industry, taken behind closed doors, is the culmination of successive cutbacks in the timber available to industry over the past 50 years.

It was a process of attrition. Gippsland bore the brunt of this development.

Initially, the reductions in native timber were based on sound public policy but they became increasingly driven by

ideology and a desire for ‘green’ votes at state elections. Key drivers were the huge expansion of national parks and other reserves that exclude timber harvesting; increasing environmental protection in state forest available for timber production in federal-state agreements; relentless pressure from green groups; dubious political decisions; the massive fires of the past two decades; and new harvesting techniques.

The 1939 Black Friday bushfires had a massive impact; the Central and East Gippsland forests were opened to harvesting to provide timber for the postwar building boom due to the damaged hardwood forest close to Melbourne.

The then Forests Commission realised that the relentless use of the hardwood forests in the housing boom, particularly as post-war immigration grew rapidly, was unsustainable. Forest researchers pushed to develop a softwood resource for use in general house framing; the upshot was the dramatic expansion in

the 1960s of pine plantations over the next 20 years based on interest-free Commonwealth loans.

From the 1950s to the early 1970s, quality native hardwood saw log production at 1.2 to 1.5 million cubic metres per year (m3/yr), according to a paper by the former chief executive of the then Victorian Association of Forest Industries, the late Graeme Gooding, who grew up in Seaspray.

In 1970, only 205,267 hectares of national parks had been created in Victoria’s native forests. In that year, the state Coalition government formed the Land Conservation Council, which over the next three decades established an extensive reserve system founded on sound science.

The studies included special investigations into wilderness, rivers and streams.

Out of that process, an extensive reserve system was created, including the Alpine National Park and other national parks in East Gippsland.

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PAWSSC’s newest upgrades Paramedics’ THE Port Albert Water Sports and Safety Centre (PAWSSC) committee recently arranged for the installation of new epoxy flooring in the building.

The new flooring is easy to clean and provides additional thermal comfort. It reduces the presence of concrete dust, is completely waterproof, slip proof and dramatically improves the aesthetics of the building.

The improvement was completed as a result of funding from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) grants process as well as a cocontribution from the Port Albert Yacht Club and Port Albert Coast Guard.

PAWSSC is jointly tenanted by the Port Albert Coast Guard and Port Albert Yacht club for dayto-day operations.

At the Great Victorian Bike Ride (GVBR) function held on Friday, December 1, many local people commented on the improved look with the new flooring, according to Jenny Smith, who is the Port Albert Progress Association (PAPA) President and is on the PAWSSC committee "The Relax and Unwind event at the Port Albert Water Sports and Safety centre went ahead despite the riders not staying in town (due to weather conditions)," she said.

"Whilst fairly well attended after 4.30pm, the

event closed its doors at 6pm due to licence requirements, so couldn't take full advantage of the crowd once they arrived."

Stay tuned for more improvements in the facility in the next three to six months.

In June last year, PAWSSC was awarded a grant of $10,000 from (FRRR) to upgrade the flooring, paving the way for more community events.

The grants are awarded through FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program.

Sticking with Port Albert, PAPA thanked those who helped bring Christmas decorations to the buoys in town.

"Decorations were purchased with funding from the Wellington Shire Council. The buoys were lit with fairy lights and the trees around town dressed with large bows," Ms Smith said.

"Thank you to the team who put in the time ... the three Sues, David, Chris, and Charla."

This is how the old concrete flooring looked in the bar area. It’s been replaced with epoxy flooring that’s easier to clean.

Photos: Contributed

Festive ‘Joy’ at Dargo tip

Dargo local Joy Hurley.

Photo: Contributed

DARGO Transfer Station employee Joy Hurley went all out for the spirit of Christmas by transforming the local tip.

Ms Hurley's efforts to bring Christmas to life down at the transfer station put a smile on everyone’s face who came by.

Ms Hurley always goes above and beyond when it comes to the little town and locals were quick to express their appreciation for what she does for the community.

Ms Hurley's husband John operated the Dargo Transfer Station for many years until he died suddenly in January, 2023. Since then, Ms Hurley has taken over and made it her own by putting in a small flower and herb garden, and of course decorating for Christmas.

Great Victorian Bike Ride function on December 1 was one of the first big events held with the new flooring at PAWSSC.

The new bar area.

Helping decorate the town, Sue Olaughlan, Sue Heal, Sue Glebov, Charla Smith, Jenny Smith, Chris Smith and David Myers.

The new floor, thanks to funding from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) grants.

Buoy with Christmas lights in Port Albert.

Classifieds all us to od da ayy o on n5 5143 143 9333 or emaill

cllassiffied ds@gippslland dtimes.com.au Page 2 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

40 South St, Port Albert won PAPA’s Christmas lights competition.

urgent plea to Gippsland Comment Ross Salathiel

GIPPSLAND is set to experience a hot summer, so our paramedics are asking communities to take simple steps to stay safe from heat illnesses this season.

We know people look forward to this time of year to enjoy holidays, get-togethers with friends and family, and some well-earned time in the sun.

However, it can also be a busy period for our paramedics responding to heat-related incidents, and we’re asking our communities to take simple preventative actions to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer.

Heat and high temperatures can affect anybody and lead to serious illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat stroke is life threatening and fatal in up to 80 per cent of cases, yet is entirely preventable.

While elderly people, young children and those with medical conditions are most at risk, anyone can be susceptible if they have not taken the right steps to keep themselves safe.

Keep a full drink bottle with you and stay hydrated throughout the day - have a hat and sunscreen handy when you’re outside.

Avoid being outside during the hottest time of the day and stay near a fan or air conditioner whenever possible.

If you’re choosing to cool off by going for a swim, don’t swim alone, know the conditions and your limits, and never leave children unsupervised.

Perhaps most importantly, we implore parents and carers to never leave their kids or elderly people in the car this summer because hot cars can kill.

We’ve responded to more than 1240 incidents of kids locked in cars since December 2022 and we hope to see a significant reduction in these cases this summer.

A child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult and temperatures inside vehicles can double within minutes.

Remember, Triple Zero (000) is for emergencies.

If you are feeling unwell, you can contact the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, visit a Priority Primary Care Centre, call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24 or see your doctor or local pharmacist.

For more information on staying safe in the heat, visit ambulance.vic.gov.au/heat-health.

Stay safe and look after each other.

Ross Salathiel is a Gippsland Regional Director Clinical Operations with Ambulance Victoria

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Stefan Bradley

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Native timber: End of an era IN 1985, at the instigation of the Cain Labor Government, the Professor of Forestry at Melbourne University, Ian Ferguson, conducted a Timber Industry Inquiry - the first public forestry inquiry since 1897 - that was described as an “excellent report” by the responsible Minister.

Out of that inquiry came the highly praised 1986 Victorian Timber Industry Strategy (TIS), which introduced detailed forest management plans; the Code of Forest Practice, where harvesting was prohibited in streamside buffers and steep slopes; water catchment management; audits of compliance; action for endangered species; coupe plans; saw log traceability; and 15-year licences for industry.

Under TIS, sustainable yield was calculated on a regional basis by foresters who had an intimate, first-hand knowledge of the forests, with help from aerial photography. Areas of forest were to be harvested on a rotation of 80 years. ‘Sustainable yield’ basically means that trees must be regrown to replace those cut down to guarantee a long-term timber supply.

The federal government then took a hand in what had been a state responsibility; the Commonwealth produced a national forest policy statement in 1992 that aimed to create a long-term consistent approach to forest conservation and management.

It had been inspired by the 1992 Rio Earth conference and the subsequent action by leading timber nations, who met in Montreal, Canada and drew up recommendations for sustainable forestry.

Out of that came the Keating Labor Government’s ground-breaking regional forest agreements (RFAs), described by Mr Gooding as a “ground-breaking process”.

“Few if any countries around the world … attempted such a detailed national systematic analysis with a view to establishing a CAR (comprehensive, adequate and representative) forest reserve system,” he said. The RFAs were about balancing conservation, biodiversity and socioeconomic outcomes.

Each RFA involved at least 50 assessments of projects in disciplines ranging from biology and zoology to economics and sociology. Specific targets were set for the reservation of each vegetation type, old growth forests and wilderness, while at the same time encouraging a secure 20-year resource for industry and encouragement for value-adding.

The five RFAs in Victoria (1998-2000) - three in Gippsland - increased reserves by 36.5 per cent, establishing a comprehensive reserve system of 2.86 million hectares – more than 50 per cent of the total public land in the regions.

The Central Highlands RFA added 116,000ha to the reserve system, an increase of 64 per cent, to 297,000ha, including a specific plan for the vulnerable Leadbeater’s Possum. The sustainable yield was calculated at 345,000m3/yr.

The Gippsland RFA added an extra 266,000ha to reserves to 780,000ha – about half of all public land in the RFA region - with a sustainable yield of 115,000m3/yr. All up, from the 1990s to 2000, about 800,000m3/yr of quality saw logs on average were sold, with less than 10,000 ha of forest annually harvested. After the RFAs, the sustainable yield was calculated at 828,500 m3 of timber to be harvested annually.

However, new satellite data altered the sustainable yield figures; it became increasingly clear that yield estimates were overstated. The situation was evaluated by Professor Jerry Vanclay of Southern Cross University in Lismore and Dr Brian Turner, who produced an overall report with a tentative estimated sustainable yield of 737,800 m3/year, a reduction of 11 per cent on the RFAs. However, the Bracks Labor Government went ahead and instigated logging cuts without any outside expert opinion. Professor Vanclay, speaking on Radio National on March 10, 2002, said the

cuts were premature as more data was needed to better calculate the resource estimate. There was also some contention about the analysis from other experts, such as Professor Ferguson.

The Bracks cuts became the landmark policy, Our Forests Our Future (OFOF), in 2002, which reduced saw log supply levels by 31 per cent to 567,500 m3/ yr and promised industry access to 10 per cent of the state’s timber. However, no allowance was made to leave ‘fat in the system’ to cater for fires.

Key events since OFOF included:  At the 2003 election, the Bracks Government unilaterally created a National Park in the Otways, effectively tearing up the West RFA that it signed in March 2000 promising industry 20 years’ timber supply. The Vanclay report had deemed Otways’ logging sustainable. Industry received no replacement forest, apart from a small, ineffective plantation. The investment climate was badly dented. A Latrobe Valley logging contractor stood as an independent in the safe Labor seat of Morwell, where the sitting Labor MP scraped home.  VicForests was created in 2004 with the task of selling native forest timber at auction and rehabilitating forest coupes.  In 2006-07, the Bracks Government, backed by the Liberal Opposition, put 45,000 hectares in East Gippsland in reserves, with no replacement forest for industry.·  Over a decade, massive fires burnt out about four million hectares of forest, most in Gippsland and much in reserves areas, leading to huge cutbacks in the timber resource. Billions of animals died in the bushfires.  By 2013, VicForests’ medium-term resource outlook was for 132,000m3 a year of D+ ash sawlogs and 100,000m3 per year of mixed species D+ sawlog – about 230,000m3 per year.  The fires prompted the Leadbeater’s Possum to be officially designated as ‘critically endangered’. To protect the possum, environmentalists campaigned for a Great Forest National Park that would stretch east of Melbourne to north of the Latrobe Valley.

In 2013, an advisory group of Zoos Victoria and industry recommended a plan to support the possum and a sustainable timber industry. This included improved fire management, excluding timber harvesting within 200 metres of known colonies and within 100 metres of old growth forests, deferring harvesting from high-quality potential habitat, and doing surveys to identify new colonies.

A 2016 report by the Victorian Environment Assessment Council (VEAC) found that causes of the Ash saw log decline included 22,000m3 due to the impact of measures to protect the possum and 43,000m3 due to expected future impact of possum protected measures. VEAC warned about the impact of climate change but said VicForests’ wood supply modelling was sound and the sustainable harvest levels were reasonable.

Surveys subsequently showed thousands of possums had been found in the Central Highlands, with 688 known colonies detected – 535 since the more intense surveys started – mainly in production areas. Little surveying was done in protected areas, but possums were found in post-harvest regrowth.

A peer-reviewed study found the possum further east than previously detected.

A review by the Department of the Environment of the surveys argued that changing to forest landscape planning – the approach taken in Europe - was the best way to manage endangered species such as the possum. Policy should be based on an assessment of the species in the broader forest context, not on an individual coupe basis. This report disappeared into the bowels of the environmental bureaucracy and was never acted upon.

The ignoring of the landscape context, and rigid separation of production and reserved forest areas, was to have a devastating impact on timber availability. VicForests was "squeezed" for forest and

forced to harvest near small towns such as Mirboo North and Noojee, sparking opposition to its plans.

Industry figures also did not want to harvest near these towns.

A report by Deloitte showed that in 2015-16, Gippsland’s native forest industry generated a direct $770 million in revenue and supported more than 2500 jobs, most in the regions. This study did not include downstream processing in areas such as furniture and cabinet making in Melbourne.

The RFAs became a focal point for green activists, who launched several legal actions through the High Court, the federal court and state courts in a bid to close the native forest industry. VicForests lost several cases but won them on appeal.

Data for the update of the RFAs showed that the Victorian RFAs had not lived up to their original expectations. A total of 657,000ha of native forest had been added to conservation areas, raising the total to well above more than half of public forest.

The volume of saw log and pulp logs in state forests had been halved from about 2.2 million m3 in 200001 to 1.2m m3 in 2015-16.

Retention harvesting, where clumps of habitat trees are retained in logging coupes, began to replace clear-felling. This further lowered harvested log volumes as previous sustainable yield figures were based on harvesting the entire coupe.

However, the government dropped a bombshell announcement in November 2019 that the native forest industry would close in 2030 with and begin stepping down from 2024. The Minister for the Environment, Lily D'Ambrosio, was pictured celebrating with environmentalists in the Strathbogie Ranges.

Then, the immediate summer after the announcement featured the devastating 2019-20 bushfires that burnt 650,000 hectares of native forest set aside for the timber industry in Gippsland, the Yarra Valley and Victoria’s north-east. The fires affected nearly 760,000 ha of Victoria’s CAR reserve system, which totals 4.3 million ha. Of this, 2.9 million ha are in the RFAs. A major state and federal review of the 2019-20 bushfires, released in January, made 37 recommendations, chief of which was that forest and fire management should be done on a landscape scale, with active management over long time frames.

“The forests are sick because we are not managing them properly,” said panel member Tony Bartlett, a decorated bushfire expert.

“The fires affect all values in reserves. Logging is not the enemy of these forests. Uncontrolled wildfire … is having the biggest impact.”

The review concluded that Victoria's annual timber supply commitments could still be met and support ecologically sustainable forest management.

Environmentalists maintained that the Greater Glider was the biggest victim of the fires, and stricter controls on timber harvesting were introduced to protect the glider.

Two green groups won a case in the Supreme Court, which found that VicForests had failed to adequately survey for protected glider species.

Harvesting of native timber effectively ceased; mills began to run out of wood, which eventually led to Australian Paper ceasing production of white copy paper at its Latrobe Valley Maryvale mill. Between 150-200 workers lost their jobs.

Debate centred on the wording in the code of timber practice, particularly the interpretation of the 'precautionary principle'; the opposition maintained that a tweaking of the wording in the Act would stop the legal action.

However, another bombshell occurred in the state budget, when the government decreed that the native timber industry would close in January 2024.

It blamed the continuation of legal action.

The industry’s dire outlook was compounded when the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal

by VicForests against the court’s earlier decision.

The Court of Appeal held that the trial judge had correctly interpreted the requirements of the code

Leadbeater’s Possum.

Photo: File

and that the declarations and injunctions were lawful. There was no consideration of the landscape context.

Forestry Australia, a professional forestry body, fears that the court decision means that the future of Victoria's forests has been captured by political ideology and complex legalities rather than being determined by science and professional expertise.

On August 2021, the Department of Jobs said the maximum potential harvest levels of D+ saw log were 172,000m3 for Ash and 144,000m3 for Mixed Species, with about 4.6 per cent of Victoria's 7.9 million ha available for harvesting annually. In Europe, industry has access to 80 per cent of the mixed softwood and hardwood native forest, with about 12 per cent in parks and reserves.

Subsequently, the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) completed 'risk assessments' for 142 threatened species and communities, placing another 100,000 hectares-plus of forest in protection zones and protections for 37 'threatened species'.

Apart from isolated specialist timbers, harvesting of native forest in Victoria is now gone.

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Thank you to our community from Uniting Gippsland!

We wish to thank all the wonderful businesses, Community groups and schools and individuals who supported our 2023 Uniting Gippsland Christmas Appeal.

Thanks to your support, we were able to provide gifts to over 800 children and food parcels to hundreds of families throughout Gippsland.

Every small act of kindness collectively makes a big difference so thank you for helping us make sure there are gifts under every Christmas tree this year.

Learn more unitingvictoria.org.au

Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 – Page 3

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Electric vehicle tax scrapped Zaida Glibanovic

WHEN Andrew Matthews from Traralgon learnt about the state levy on electronic vehicles (EVs), he thought it was "a bit ridiculous".

But after a landmark High Court case, Mr Matthews and his wife will no longer have to pay the state government-enforced tax on their zero-emission cars.

Aware of the state-issued charge but not its 2.8 cents increase per kilometre, Mr Matthews paid his tax bill for his Tesla Model 3 just a few months before the court's ruling was handed out in October.

Mr Matthews said he understood the need to tax energy consumption for EVs like gas prices, but found the kilometre-based tax for Victoria unreasonable.

"I always thought the Victorian tax was a bit ridiculous in that you're getting taxed for kilometres travelled in and outside your state, and how that would be practical for road users really didn't make sense to me," he said.

Paying close attention to the recent High Court decision scrapping the electronic vehicle tax, Mr Matthews said incentivising zero-emission cars would be a better approach from the government.

"I think the incentives of the space is somewhat important given the current cost of the vehicles," he said.

With a growing presence of electronic vehicle owners in the region, Mr Matthews has seen the increase first-hand.

"It was somewhat rare to see EVs on the road in Valley, late last year... my wife would say that every other day she would see one in Traralgon," he said.

As a result of the High Court’s decision, customers who previously complied with the requirements of the ZLEV scheme and made payments of the road-user charge are eligible for a full refund.

VicRoads have said that light motor vehicles

Tesla charging station when it was under construction in the Moe Cole’s carpark. classified as Zero Low Emission Vehicles (ZLEV) are eligible for a registration discount of up to $100 per year (pro-rata for registration periods of less than 12 months).

Because conventional hybrids (such as Toyota Camry Hybrid) are not classified as ZLEVs, the $100 registration discount will not apply.

The tax proposed by the state government would have been at over two cents per kilometre to match the contributions of fuel-powered vehicles paid for road maintenance under the Commonwealth fuel excise.

Regular automobile owners now pay gasoline taxes of $1200 per household per year, while electric car owners can now relax.

Electric vehicle owners Chris Vanderstock and Kath Davies led the charge and launched the

Photo: Facebook

lawsuit on what the pair called the "world's worst EV policy".

Motorists were required under the policy to document their vehicle odometer to VicRoads to be charged on their usage each year with penalties if they didn't comply.

The High Court's landmark decision found the tax was an excise, a goods tax only to be imposed by the Commonwealth.

VicRoads posted to its website saying, "The Government is reviewing the High Court's decision to understand its implications and how the ruling will be implemented.

"Motorists who are due to renew their zero and low emission vehicle (ZLEV) registration should continue to do so.

"We are in the process of contacting all ZLEV

customers directly to explain what the decision means for them and any next steps."

The four-to-three ruling divided the court and can be seen as setting precedence for other state levies, including mining, luxury vehicles and livestock sales.

The decisions could come as a win for the region, which is working to create a rapid charger network across the Latrobe Valley and into Gippsland.

Victoria's Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D'Ambrosio said: "Uptake of electric vehicles will help us reduce emissions and to tackle climate change."

With the projected increase in electric vehicle purchases as the world goes green, Gippsland has followed suit to provide charging access to tourists and residents alike.

In the Latrobe Valley alone, 16 charging stations are spread out across the region.

The Electric Vehicle Council described the ruling as a win for Australian motorists.

EVC chief executive, Behyad Jafari, said the High Court ruling would pave the way to better policy across the nation.

"There is nothing inherently wrong with road user charges, but they should never be calibrated to discourage the take up of electric vehicles," Mr Jafari said.

"Allowing states to simply shake down EV owners for a bit of extra tax is a retrograde approach, and I'm very glad to see the High Court slamming the brakes on that."

The EV charging locations in Wellington Shire can be found at:  Port of Sale (Wellington Centre Car Park), Grand Canal Road;  Yarram Hub, 156 Grant Street, and;  22 George Street, Heyfield.

Seaspray’s summer season in full swing

Mr Renowden’s telescope.

Photo: Bruce Renowden

According to Seaspray Caravan Park employee Jenny Lambert, the caravan park is currently the busiest it could possibly be.

"We have over 230 sites, and even with the storms, we're still at full capacity with very few cancellations over the New Year period," she said.

"It's been really positive. I think everyone's been waiting a long time for these holidays."

Ms Lambert estimates there could be up to a thousand people spending their Seaspray Summer in the Seaspray Caravan Park.

But this Seaspray summer is slightly different to the previous years. For one, it's far colder and wetter than the previous years, with 30°C only being topped twice in December.

Although this stops the traditional fish and chips on the beach, it has yet to stop Seaspray from being a fantastic destination, said 'Celebrate Seaspray' Facebook page manager Zoe Curtis.

"Summer is always an exciting time at Seaspray because that's when the town swells, and it's been a great vibe," she said.

"The last couple of days' weather has put a dampener on things, but it certainly hasn't stopped visitors from coming here to holiday."

Ms Curtis added that the town has many positive things going for it; the Surf Club's Young Nipper program is growing, an episode of Back Roads will be filmed this month, and Jack Ryan's chefs are still cooking at the surf club.

"People often overlook Seaspray because we have a small population and because it's a one-road entry and exit town. But Seaspray really punches above

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its weight, and summertime is when this is noticed because the town grows from a couple of hundred people to thousands of visitors," she said.

Meanwhile, the other tourist hotspots for 'Seasprayers' blossomed: Merriman creek, Seaspray Beach and an astronomy tour in Honeysuckle with Bruce Renowden.

Mr Renowden said that in rain or shine, the astronomy tours have kept busy and helped many new visitors explore their curiosities.

"People like looking at space because it gives context to our world. Humans are preoccupied with the here and now and the impact on themselves, whereas space is such a massive vista and gives you a real worldview," he said.

Seaspray is certainly continuing its post-pandemic boom from last year, which will continue until school starts again, work comes back or, in essence: until reality is restored. But for now, the region is in its blissful period.

The Seaspray Caravan Park is fully booked these holidays!

Photo: Ben McArthur

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SPENDING Boxing Day sitting undercover outside watching the test match on a large TV with your friends and family, wearing shirts and thongs as heavy rain falls may sound miserable to some people, but for many staying at the Seaspray Caravan Park it is a paradise; far better than what any exotic tourist destination could offer.

It's that time of year again for the coastal town; school’s out, the years ticked forward, and families on holiday are coming to their favourite summer destination: Seaspray, which is a sleepy town at every other season.

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Life-saving addition to V/Line trains

THE state government has begun fixing Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) on V/Line trains to provide vital assistance to passengers in case of an emergency.

Acting Minister for Public and Active Transport Steve Dimopoulos today announced the rollout of AEDs is underway, with devices which can be operated by either V/Line staff or members of the public to help save lives.

"The installation of Automatic External Defibrillators onboard our trains is just another example of how we are making the commute safer for passengers," he said.

"Having defibrillators on V/Line trains will significantly increase a person's chance of surviving an emergency."

Already 90 AEDs have been installed on V/Line trains, including 65 on VLocity trains - with many more to be progressively rolled out over the coming months.

Defibrillators on trains will help ensure critical assistance can be given to a person on board in the vital first few minutes after an incident of cardiac arrest.

Ambulance Victoria data shows that combining CPR with defibrillation can increase a person's survival rate by up to 70 per cent.

To minimise any disruptions to passengers, the devices are being installed on trains during regular maintenance regimes - while portable defibrillators have also been given to each train as an interim measure.

V/Line Chief Executive Matt Carrick said the state government's investment will help save lives.

"This is a really important project and will significantly enhance staff and passengers' ability to respond to these incidents onboard our train services," he said.

"Each of our different train types have required a different design so we have been working to develop prototypes to ensure the units can be safely installed and are fit-for-purpose."

The installation of AEDs on trains follows the Victorian government's roll-out of the life-saving

devices at V/Line and metropolitan stations.

V/Line started installing AEDs at its stations in 2018, and now all 47 staffed stations across the regional network have a defibrillator available.

Additional devices have also recently been installed on all V/Line platforms at Southern Cross Station to make them more accessible to staff and members of the public.

V/Line trains will now be fitted with defibrillators to provide life-saving assistance in the case of Photo: File an emergency.

Investing in rural and regional healthcare Raff Ciconne Comment

WE all know that it can be challenging to get an appointment to see a doctor - particularly in rural and regional Australia.

In the previous parliament, Federal Labor established a Senate inquiry to examine the GP shortage - including the Coalition’s Medicare rebate freeze - and to make sure everyone has access to quality health care regardless of where they live.

Since the election (2022), the Albanese Government has implemented several policies to make our health system more affordable and accessible.

We implemented a significant cut to the maximum cost of a prescription on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, reducing it from $42.50 to $30.

We have given doctors the option to provide 60-day prescriptions, and more than 600,000 of these scripts have already been issued.

The Albanese Government has also tripled the incentive for doctors to bulk bill pensioners, concession cardholders and children under 16, which has resulted in an increased availability of bulk billing in every state and territory.

Overall, Australians are on track to save more than $250 million on medicines by the end of the year.

The availability of doctors is still a major issue.

That’s why last month we announced an

investment of $90 million in six new medical school programs in rural communities.

The investment will build medical classrooms, equipment and facilities, as well as provide up to 80 new medical Commonwealth Supported Places.

These placements will be matched by universities that must redirect an equivalent number of their existing placements to the six new rural programs.

Evidence shows that doctors who train in rural and regional Australia are more likely to stay and practise in the regions after they graduate, and the investment will also bring economic and social benefits to regional Australia through the increased number of staff and students living and working locally.

While implementing this policy we are also conducting the Working Better for Medicare Review.

The Review will look at how current policies and programs can be strengthened to make it easier to see a doctor, nurse or other health worker in the outer suburbs of our major cities and in regional, rural and remote Australia.

When Federal Labor came to government, nine years of cuts and neglect to Medicare meant it had never been harder or more expensive to see a doctor, particularly for people in regional Victoria.

But through our policies to provide cheaper medicines, record funding for bulk billing, and investment in medical training in rural communities, the Albanese Government is restoring the affordability and accessibility of our health system.

Free vaccines now available for patients THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia says patients will no longer have to pay for vaccines at their local community pharmacy under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) from January 1.

Up until now eligible patients for the NIP faced an administration fee if they received their vaccination at a community pharmacy, but this will change from 2024.

The Pharmacy Guild’s National President, Professor Trent Twomey says the changes will see more pharmacies be able to administer more vaccines.

“From the first of January all Australians will be able to ask their pharmacist for all vaccinations on the Commonwealth Government’s National Immunisation Program,” he said.

Professor Twomey says having more pharmacists able to administer the vaccines will free

up more appointments at doctors’ surgeries.

“This is great news for Australians, great news for Australian families because it means they no longer have to wait up to four days in a capital city or even four weeks in a rural or regional area to secure an appointment with the general practitioner.”

The changes will mean that patients have greater choice and convenience about where they get their vaccination.

“There is no wrong door. You can continue, if you wish, to see your doctor but you now have that extra choice to be able to ask your community pharmacist for more vaccinations from January 1,” Professor Twomey said.

Patients wanting to find their nearest community pharmacy can visit findapharmacy. com.au

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Calls to reduce prices of medicine amid inflation

Wishing Everyone a Happy, Prosperous & Healthy 2024

THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia has stepped up its call for the cost of medicines to go down instead of up due to price rises caused by inflation.

From January 1, the maximum co-payment for Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) listed medicines have rise by $1.60 to $31.60 for general patients and up by 40 cents to $7.70 for concessional card holders.

The Pharmacy Guild’s National President, Professor Trent Twomey says this is in stark contrast to twelve months ago, when prices came down $12.50 on the back of the Guild’s ‘Affordable Medicines Now’ campaign.

“Instead of the Commonwealth Government putting the price of medicines up on the 1st of January, they should be doing in fact the complete opposite and easing the cost-of-living burden on Australians,” Professor Twomey said.

The Pharmacy Guild is currently campaigning to reduce the maximum co-payment for PBS medicines from $31.60 to $19.

“Australia has the third highest out-of-pocket expenses for essential medicines in the developed world.

“We have been calling on this government to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses when it comes to essential healthcare,” said Professor Twomey.

Recently released figures show many Australians are deferring their medicines because of financial strain due to rising costs of living.

“The Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that 1.1 million Australians are delaying, deferring or going without their essential medicines on a weekly and monthly basis.”

The Pharmacy Guild’s National President, Professor Trent Twomey, calls for the maximum Photo: Contributed co-payment of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme medicine to be cut to $19.

Locals urged to stay safe after a tragic year on roads

Love to see you in the New Year

FOLLOWING a devastating year on the state’s roads, the Allan Labor Government is urging all Victorians to make safety their priority in 2024.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne today acknowledged the families, friends and communities impacted by road trauma in 2023, with 296 lives lost on Victorian roads in 2023.

Road safety is a shared responsibility, and whether driving, riding, or crossing the road, this new year Victorians are reminded to make safe choices on every journey - slow down, put the phone away, pay attention, wear a seat belt, and don’t drive after drinking or taking drugs.

With fatigue a major contributor to road trauma, people travelling long distances over the holiday period are being urged to get a good night’s sleep

0401 065 422 98 Raymond Street Sale

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74 Macalister Street, Sale

5143 9310

Page 6 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

before driving, allow plenty of travel time, drive to the conditions, remove distractions, and take regular breaks.

Driver Reviver Australia will have 21 sites set up across Victoria throughout summer, supported

by VICSES and Lions club volunteers providing the ideal location for drivers to take a break, have a free cup of coffee or tea and stretch their legs, before continuing their journey.

Data shows that lower-level drink driving and speeding, failing to obey road signs and distraction accounted for more than half of fatalities on state roads in 2023.

As the year comes to a close, road safety authorities are particularly concerned with the significant increase in driver and passenger fatalities, which

have risen to 189 in 2023, compared with 126 at the same time last year.

Drivers are also being urged to drive to the weather conditions especially in parts of Victoria that have experienced flooding.

While recent rainfall has eased across areas under a flood watch, parts of the state may continue to experience minor flood levels or flooding events.

Victorians should keep up to date with the latest advice on the VicEmergency app and check VicTraffic before travelling for updates on road closures, hazards, and to consider alternate routes.

Driver Reviver site locations and operating hours can be viewed at driverreviver.com.au

Bull slams state’s inadequate boat flare disposal program

‘‘

With approximately 194,000 registered boats in Victoria, a substantial number of flares need replacement every three years and old stock must be appropriately disposed of.

TIM BULL NATIONAL STATE MP FOR GIPPSLAND EAST

LOCAL boat users, mandated to carry marine flares on their recreational vessels, are encountering difficulties disposing out of date stock.

Nationals State MP for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, highlighted issues faced by boat owners.

When heading offshore, they are required to have two orange smoke flares, two incandescent red flares, and two parachute flares on board.

"Flares typically have a lifespan of about three years, requiring regular replacement to ensure compliance and avoid fines," Mr Bull said.

"With approximately 194,000 registered boats in Victoria, a substantial number of flares need replacement every three years and old stock must be appropriately disposed of.”

Mr Bull pointed out that although Gippsland Water Police station serves as the designated flare disposal point locally, it is often unmanned due to operational commitments focused on patrolling waterways for public safety.

"The challenge we confront is that if mariners lack a convenient method to dispose of their

outdated flares safely, they resort to unsafe disposal practices.”

In an embarrassing oversight by Safe Transport Victoria (STV), a one-off flare collection event, held two years ago, remained advertised on its website, misleading mariners that there were planned disposal days for the upcoming summer.

"STV has indicated that the closest location for East Gippsland residents to conveniently drop off unwanted pyrotechnic devices is Sale Police Station, which entails close to a two-anda-half-hour round trip from Lakes Entrance to Sale," Mr Bull said.

"This discourages responsible disposal and may lead to increased instances of marine flares lighting up the night sky this New Year's Eve. "I am urging the Allan Labor Government to provide accessible solutions for the public to comply with regulations and safely dispose of these potentially hazardous goods."

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Festive fun at Sale Hospital

JUDGING of the annual Christmas decoration competition took place at all Central Gippsland Health (CGH) sites in the lead up to the festive season.

The judging panel, made up of members of the executive team, were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and creativity of staff, with an incredible 27 departments entering the competition.

Given the quality of decorations, the panel decided to issue a series of awards: The Fast Starter Award - to the Candy Cane Unit (Critical Care Unit) for being one of the first departments out of the gate with decorations.

The Serenade Award went to the Surgical Ward for its rendition of ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’, not to mention their excellent Wally’s Winter Wonderland decorations.

The Bribery Award was won by the Emergency Department and Patient Services for the provision of personalised bribe bags for the panel.

Next up - the Innovative Award went to the Pharmacy Department and Infection Control Team for their innovative approach; sporting a Christmas tree decorated with inhalers, medication bottles and other pharmacy related paraphernalia, while Infection Control created a Christmas tree from RAT kits, festively decked with baubles and tinsel.

The Winter in Summer Award - To the Allied Health Manager’s Office and the Medical Imaging Department for their Winter Displays.

Best Costume Award: The Wilson Lodge for their blow-up Santa Claus, and a walking, talking Christmas Tree.

Foodies pay attention - the Delicious Award has gone to the Medical Ward for an impressive spread for the judging panel, laying out chocolate covered strawberries, white chocolate rocky road, homemade truffles and cookies, gingerbread, fudge, caramello koalas and a Christmas cake.

The Ultimate Comfort Award went to the first floor of Community Services for providing a deluxe Santa Chair, surrounded by festive decorations and lights!

The Naughty or Nice Award was awarded to Dental with their naughty list (cavity, decay, plaque and ache) and nice list (smile, crown, molar, floss, x-ray and brush).

The Gingerbread Award was awarded to the Women’s & Children’s Unit and Emergency Department for transforming their departments into gingerbread houses.

Best Dressed NUM Award - To the Women’s & Children’s Unit NUMs (Nurse Unit Manager) - Kim Costin and Kellie Gartung - for NUM Santa Claus and NUM Elf. The Demonstration of Skill Award - congratulations are in order for Meg Kidson in Consulting Suites with her beautifully handcrafted quilts; Jo Bennett and her crocheted Christmas decorations in Patient

Services; and the decorations at Heyfield Hospital, handmade by Deidre Lions, Diversional Therapist.

The Knowledgeable Award has been won by the library with its many festive but educational resources.

The Laundry Award went to Corporate Services; Santa’s underwear was found to be hanging on a clothesline!

The Elegance Award went to the Day Procedure Unit, Oncology, Dialysis and Maffra Hospital.

The Tour Guide Award was awarded to the Community Rehabilitation Centre, highlighting the decorations in CRC reception and the Physiotherapy Parallel Bar Gym. The Whoville Award, in true Grinch style, the Occupational Therapy/Speech Pathology office tried not to make the panel welcome, but their Whoville Christmas Display and green Grinchey cookies betrayed them.

Best Team Photo Award went to Food Services.

And finally, the Generosity Award was given to Stretton Park’ for its Christmas raffle and provision of a food hamper for Uniting Care, to give to community in need.

This annual event not only gives staff a chance to come together to celebrate Christmas, it certainly brightens up the surrounds for patients and visitors alike. The decorations are expected to be on display for a little while longer for all to enjoy.

Kim Costin and Kellie Gartung were NUM Santa Claus and NUM Elf.

Stretton Park hampers.

The Winter in Summer Award went to the Allied Health Manger’s Office and the Medical Imaging Department.

Photos: Contributed

A D V E R TO R I A L

Photo collage from the event.

Gippsland Times and Maffra Rotary Club invite nominations for the

Times and Rotary

“Maffra Quiet Achiever”

Awards will be presented at Maffra’s Australia Day ceremony on 26th January, 2024

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NOMINATION FORM

SUPPORTED BY

I wish to nominate

Name..............................................................................................................

Address.............................................................................................................

I have attached details supporting my nomination.

Post to: Maffra Quiet Achiever, P.O. Box 154, Maffra, 3860 - or email maffrasecretary@rotary9820.org.au Following information is confidential to assessment panel: My name is...............................................................................................................................

Address.....................................................................

Phone.......................................

Nominations close 12th January, 2024

Pearly Mates Pet Cremations is family business and is located in Gippsland. We have been looking after East and South Gippsland pets for some 12 years now. From Pakenham to Orbost to Wonthaggi we have assisted many pet owners through very difficult times. We are proud to say two of our staff are ex first responders and are very familiar with dealing with grief, and the respectful treatment of all pets. Each pet’s ashes, or cremains, are returned with a statutory declaration stating that those cremains belong to that named pet. This declaration/ certificate is signed by an independent Justice of the Peace and is a legally binding document. Ashes are returned within a week unless it’s one of our individually made timber urns which may take a bit longer.

All of our timber urns are made here by our urn maker from sustainably sourced Australian timbers. We also make human urns for major crematoriums and funeral homes. We firstly obtain the timber green and rough sawn. It is racked and dried for at least 12 months before being used. We offer Tasmanian Blackwood, Tasmanian Oak and Jarrah. Each timber urn is individually made for each pet, they are not mass produced or simply pulled off a shelf after being imported from overseas from unsustainable timbers. If

it’s one of our photo o urns you would like you simply email or smss us a photo and our photo technician will adjuust, size, print and place it in the urn for you. We have our unique designs , the Towerr urn and the Kennel urn amongst others are e very popular. We also offer that the crem mains are returned in a plain tin for scattering if required. On request we can take paw and nose prints or a lock of hair.

In selected circumsstances we allow pet owners to pay the fee off, we understand that after vet fees people can be a bit short.

In any case we donn’t ask for payment until the cremains are re eady to be returned.

At Pearly Mates we e also assist pet rescue services such as Sw weet Shepherd Rescue, Victorian Bull Terrier Rescue, Palliative Care Pets, Animal Aid Shhelters, Wildlife Shelters to name a few. We feel at Pearly Mates that these groups do such important work they deserve our support. We also are actively involved in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, we are a registered d Wildlife Shelter.

Please loo ok at our website www.pearlymatess.com.au or phone us on 0488 373 429 and speak with Kylie or myself, Jonathan.

GP1665909

In the categories:- Adult Quiet Achiever over 30 y/o, Junior Quiet Achiever under 30 y/o & Quiet Achiever Group Nominees will have unselfishly contributed toward the well-being of their community and its people, alternatively have helped others in a community role, without seeking personal recognition or reward.

Residents of Maffra, Briagolong, Tinamba, Stratford, Valencia Creeek, Newry, Boisdale and Bundalaguah areas are eligible.

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Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 – Page 7

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Government support needed for flood clean-up

MEMBER for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, says state government assistance will be needed to clean up South Gippsland after the Boxing Day destructive flood and storm event.

Mr O’Brien has called on the state government to step in to support the clean-up process for home owners, businesses, farmers and local councils.

“The early morning Boxing Day storm and rain event caused rapid flooding that caught many communities by surprise and led to significant localised damage.

“In the Gippsland South electorate, the rain was heaviest in an arc from Sale through Yarram and to Welshpool and Toora, with significant damage

in Welshpool and surrounding communities in particular.

“Once roads had safely re-opened, I visited Welshpool, Toora and the Yarram and Woodside area to see the damage first-hand and speak with locals most affected.

“While insurance is of course the first port of call, there is a case for clean-up assistance from the state government to help businesses and farmers clean up the mess, as was done after the 2021 storm events.

“Such support could be provided under the national Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) with funding from the federal government.”

Danny O’Brien surveys flood-damaged stock with Meg Fleming of The Olive Branch café at Photos: Contributed Welshpool.

Mr O’Brien said South Gippsland and Wellington Shires will have big bills for road and other infrastructure damage and will need support.

“There is also significant damage to our rivers and other waterways and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority will likely need grant funding to repair and restore many of our natural features.”

Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien with Eddie Fowler of Welshpool Outdoors.

Danny O’Brien with volunteers cleaning up at the Welshpool Op Shop.

Saying goodbye to native timber harvesting

TIMBER Towns Victoria has acknowledged a deep sadness and regret for the native timber harvesting communities and their families for the loss of regenerative native mixed species forest harvesting from actively managed forests in Victoria.

In Australia, forested landscapes are likely to have been actively and adaptively managed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for more than 60,000 years.

In November 2019, the state government announced a phase out of the native timber harvesting industry in Victoria by 2030.

In May 2023, a new announcement brought the ban forward to commence January 1, 2024.

Timber Towns Victoria President and Mayor of the Glenelg Shire, Councillor Karen Stephens said “Unfortunately, the industry has long been misunderstood by the state government and the broader community and has ultimately been brought to its knees".

“The loss of active forest management practices

will ultimately mean the loss of generational knowledge, loss of carbon capture in regrowth forest areas after harvesting, and the loss of the flow on benefits to communities and the environment,” Cr Stephens said.

Victoria's forest industries are recognised as significant contributors to the economy and community.

An economic impact report commissioned by the Wellington and East Gippsland Shires in 2021 estimated that the ban on native timber harvesting would result in around 1110 job losses and output to drop by $308 million.

Forestry Australia (the professional body of forest scientists, farm foresters and forestry professionals) advocates to support well managed sustainable forest harvesting as a part of ecologically sustainable forest management practices.

These sustainably regenerative managed forests operate under strict Australian Standards and stringent auditing.

Under ecologically sustainable forest management, active management practices are required to maintain resilient and healthy forests that can withstand the impacts of threats including bushfires, invasive species and climate change.

Forestry Australia recommends continued silvicultural techniques in our native forests can be utilised to support forest health and biodiversity, mitigate risks from fire, pests and diseases and to grow bigger trees quicker, storing more carbon and creating forests that are more resilient.

“In contrast to the ban on native timber harvesting, there are a multitude of benefits from the sustainable management of our forests and as the peak local government body for Victoria on

forest policy, we wish to discuss these with the state government and work towards a positive solution for Victoria and our communities," Cr Stephens said.

“We call on the government to advise Timber

Towns Victoria and the community, what strategies do you have in place for the future sustainable management of forest health, bushfire risks, conservation of biodiversity, and maximising carbon outcomes.”

Dallahan live at Valencia Hall

ONCE again, Valencia Hall brings you an exciting international band - Dallahan.

Be sure to get excited for Tuesday, January 9 at 8pm as Dallahan perform live at Valencia Hall.

Having just performed at the Woodford Festival, the band bought the house down.

The band was forged in Scotland and Ireland's traditional music scene, but draws on the music of the Balkans and North America.

Dallahan take their listeners on a journey traversing styles and countries of the world in a dazzling live show, and create their own unique brand of world-folk delivered with stunning virtuosity.

The line-up consists of Jack Badcock on guitar and vocals, Ciaran Ryan on banjo, mandolin and fiddle, Andrew Waite on accordion and Benedict Morris on fiddle.

To date, they have brought their live show to 23 countries, earned three nominations for ‘Folk Band of The Year’ in 2016, 2019 and 2022 and enjoyed collaborations with songwriting Dallahan will perform at Valencia Hall on Tuesday, January 9. legend Dougie MacLean.

Photo: Contributed Bookings cost $30. To book, call 0439 454 428.

Proudly supporting

local business and

local jobs

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Page 8 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

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Rates rise for average GP consultation Zaida Glibanovic GP visits will now cost you an arm and a leg as average consultation rates have risen $10 in the past year.

Increased prices have seen locals charged more than $100 for an ordinary non-bulk billed GP appointment from this month.

With the increasing cost of running clinics in 2023, the Australian Medical Association has advised doctors to raise their fees for a standard consultation to $102.

Dr Kingsley Rajasingham has operated Central Gippsland Family Practice in Moe for decades. Dr Kingsley said the current state of our healthcare system was the worst he had experienced in his tenure.

"I think (the healthcare system) is the worst it has been in my medical career," he said.

"Definitely the cost of running a practice has gone up.

"Obviously the running of a practice has dramatically changed over the years," Dr Kingsley said, but could be attributed to many medical and technology advances accompanied by inflation that the Medicare rebate does not account for.

"We find the staff salaries go up according to CPI but the Medicare rebate has been frozen for years, and that impacts us and what happens is that we have to take it from the patients," he said.

GPs are concerned for health outcomes, with rising cost of living pressures having adverse effects on patients.

"The patients are the ones who are affected because as you'd probably already know, the general cost of living has gone up, so the first thing they neglect is their health."

Mr Kingsley said he was witnessing patients unable to afford doctors visits and medication.

"We are seeing that patients are avoiding that

Ms Bath is continuing to condemn the state governments heath tax stating, "it will negatively impact Victoria's already struggling heath system on multiple fronts and cause substantially poorer health outcomes for patients.”

"Some clinics will close as they're unable to absorb Labor's tax burden, our struggling public hospital emergency departments will become more overrun, patient health will be compromised and Victorian's who can see a GP will be paying significantly more," Ms Bath said.

"The Nationals have serious concerns about the impact of the health tax on regional Victorians, who already struggle with limited access to healthcare.

"Securing an appointment to see a GP outside the tram tracks of Melbourne is already problematic right across Eastern Victoria - Labor health tax will only erect more barriers for my constituents.

"Our GPs and allied health professionals are the backbone of our health system."

The Medicare rebate is set to rise but only by 20 cents - not enough for the everyday Australian to be safe from the impact from the measures.

There is some respite for people, as the federal government announced it would triple the bulk billing incentive for GPs for vulnerable patients such as welfare recipients, pensioners and children starting this month.

"A lot of the patients who are on a pension or a healthcare card, we feel bad to burden them by putting the cost on top of the Medicare rebate," Dr Kingsley said.

"This incentive has helped a lot of patients, but the issue is, it's only for healthcare card holders, pensioners and under 16 (years old).

"Whoever isn't in that criteria unfortunately will have to pocket it out. If it gets extended to others as well, we might see more patients coming in for their preventative medicine and it just takes the burden to them and us as well."

GP’s can charg rge g patients tss more than $100 for consultations, as GP’s lift ftt their prices amid increased costs ts. s

Photo: File

payment and they are either neglecting and waiting for their conditions to get worse or overloading the hospital system," he said.

The other thing that affects patients coming to GP practices with the increased cost of living is preventive care, which they are neglecting.

"They're not coming in because of the cost, and that means they could have conditions that they don't even know, and the preventive measures are affected. In the long term, it's going to affect the whole healthcare system."

The GP rate rise also comes after the recent introduction of the very unpopular state government GP tax.

The state government's new payroll tax for GPs and allied health professionals is to be applied retrospectively, and will substantially increase the cost of seeing a GP, or in some cases, cause clinics to shut their doors permanently.

"It was actually a shock to us because we contract doctors as independent doctors," Dr Kingsley said.

"The problem is, the payroll tax can be

retrospective up to five years. So that means we can all be hit by bills for the last five years."

The New South Wales and Queensland governments have exempted GPs from the tax, and Dr Kingsley hopes Victoria will do the same.

Just recently, Victoria's Treasurer, Tim Pallas, pledged he would use his powers to waive fees for doctors in financial strife, leaving many confused over the purpose of the tax.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners is predicting a mass GP clinic closure in Victoria if the tax proceeds, after its poll indicated that more than one third of clinics would consider moving their practice interstate as a result of the health tax.

The state opposition is demanding the GP tax be withdrawn immediately.

According to Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, the State Revenue Office has begun contacting the 1500 GP clinics in Victoria demanding pay details dating back 10 years in preparation to apply the tax.

Encouraging young people to stay resilient HEADSPACE is encouraging young people to reflect on and be proud of their achievements last year.

During a time of ongoing global conflict, a cost-of-living crisis and continued fallout from climate events, it’s fair to say 2023 was a tough time for many young people. But new research released shows young people’s enormous capacity for resilience.

The headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey reveals three in five young people feel they tend to bounce back quickly after hard times (61 per cent).

Asked to respond to the statement, “It does not take long to recover from a stressful event,” 52 per cent agreed or strongly agreed.

Overall, more than two-thirds (69 per cent) of young people surveyed were found to have normal and high levels of resilience.

While many young people felt confident in their ability to get through tough times, the research also revealed that some didn’t feel as resilient compared to their peers; one-third agreed it was hard for them to snap back when something bad happened (33 per cent), and that they tend to take a long time to get over setbacks in their life (31 per cent).

Young women (39 per cent) and young people identifying as members of the LGBTQIA+ community (52 per cent) were among those most likely to report having a hard time making it through stressful events.

Headspace National Clinical Advisor, Rupert Saunders said, “We know that 2023 has been a

challenging year for many young Australians, and it’s not always easy getting back to feeling like your best self after a difficult period.”

“Some young people may feel tempted to focus on things they didn’t achieve in 2023, or to compare their achievements to others.

“However it’s important young people give themselves credit for what they have managed to overcome.

“Everyone is on their own journey, and each young person is presented with unique challenges. Getting through the school year, working on relationships, finding work and keeping active might sound like small steps to some, but for many of us these are really important victories that ought to be celebrated.

“This sort of resilience is a skill that can be worked on. Helpful habits such as staying active, doing

The headspace office in Morwell.

things we enjoy, connecting with our family and friends, eating well, getting enough sleep and cutting back on alcohol and other drugs are all things you can do to help be ready for, and to navigate, tough times.

“This year, we also saw young people get through tough times by channelling their discomfort into activism or community response efforts - a really purposeful and powerful contribution to their communities.

“As we enter a new year, we’re going to see a lot of commentary online and in the media about the wonderful things people have done this year, or really exciting plans they have for the future.

“Try not to compare yourself to what you see on social media. Instead, take a moment to reflect on what you’re proud of and what fulfilled you this year, and celebrate where you are now. And remember, there are always people to support you on your journey ahead.”

Leaning on a support system to get through tough times can be a positive way to cope. Young people aged 12 to 25, as well as their family and friends can visit a headspace centre for support.

Support is also available via phone and online counselling service eheadspace seven days a week between 9am-1am (AEST). The number is 1800 650 890.

If you’re looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14) and Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) are available to talk 24/7.

Photo: Contributed

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Preparing families for parenthood Katrina Brandon BE Empowered Birth and Parenting Classes Pty Ltd (EMPC) is a service that helps grieving families and future parents with pre- and post-birth situations. The service is run by Stacey Stewart, who has nine years experience in hospitals assisting parents in gaining knowledge during and after pregnancies.

“I aim to educate women that they have options so they know they have options available to them and understand their rights around childbirth,” Ms Stewart said.

“We talk about all sorts of topics around how childbirth works, what your options are and all the different birthing settings, how you can promote the flow of your hormones in labour and birth, breastfeeding parenting, mental health challenges, the role of the partner, supporting you during labour and after birth. But I think the biggest focus is on women’s rights in hospital settings in particular and advocating for themselves.”

Classes are primarily in-person, some through a general practitioner’s office in Traralgon, but online classes are available for those unable to attend in-person.

The classes are based throughout the Gippsland area and are hands-on with techniques from acupressure to changing nappies.

“I think people become more relaxed with me … I teach acupressure, spinning babies' movements during pregnancy, labour and birth, pressure points to push on the body during labour, and handson stuff like breastfeeding, changing nappies, dressing babies, and swaddling babies,” Ms Stewart said.

“After each class, I send scenarios to each person or couple attending. We talk through the different scenarios of what they might do and what their answers might be.

“I get them to try having conversations together as a couple on what works

Be Empowered Birth and Parenting Classes give future parents advice Photo: File for parenthood. right, what they want to hear during labour, and how they want to be touched because our partners can’t actually read our minds as much as we would like them to, it’s about communication in relationships, communicating our needs and communicating that in a way that doesn’t start arguments.”

The classes started in October 2021,

running four consecutive Wednesday and Monday evenings for three hours.

According to Ms Stewart, many challenges face the classes. One such factor is inflation, which makes it difficult to know what is happening with luxury services.

Ms Stewart told the Gippsland Times that, thankfully, she still consistently

receives bookings where she does 10 to 12 series a year, excluding December and January.

Ms Stewart aims to make the classes casual and laid back so that mothers, fathers and partners can be as comfortable as possible. She finds that partners are less likely to be relaxed or motivated than mothers.

“I want to focus on the dads or partners and be more relaxed. The women are often really motivated to be there as it is happening to their bodies,” she said.

“I run the classes in a very casual, laid-back way; there’s some integrated swearing in there, and I am blunt about how our bodies work. I want to make it very relaxed and fun so that people enjoy it, and I think people enjoy things more when they are relaxed.”

Ms Stewart also runs the Gippsland Parents’ Grief program, which she started around October after a couple of women who have had full-term stillborn babies came forward for support from Ms Stewart.

Losing a child is unimaginable, but what services are there for those who do?

“Our Parents’ Grief program, which I run quite separately, is open to any mums and dads and runs as an informal group. We run it once a month at various locations around Gippsland, such as Morwell, Sale, Dourin, and Leongatha,” she said.

“They can talk about the babies and pregnancies they have lost and experienced through that journey. We talk about the challenges, like having another after loss and what that can look like for pregnancy or anxiety. We talk about those women who can not fall pregnant after loss and never get to have their babies and the challenges that they face.”

Ms Stewart told the Gippsland Times that in Australia, there are six stillborn babies born every day.

In Gippsland, they are still seeing a lot of pregnancies and infant loss.

Unfortunately, there are no other person

support groups in Gippsland, and the women Ms Stewart has been speaking to find online support is not the same.

“They want to connect face-to-face with other people,” Ms Stewart said.

People feel grief in many ways, and Ms Stewart told the Gippsland Times that it is an ongoing journey.

“People who have lost babies or pregnancies don’t ever forget. We all grieve in different ways. I have been in contact with Red Nose, who are amalgamating with Sans, which is Australia’s main support network or support for people who have lost pregnancies and infants,” Ms Stewart said.

She and the two women who helped form the group are going into councillor training with Red Nose to further their ability to help more people in similar positions.

There are many things people can do to help those who have been affected by the loss of an infant, such as asking if they need any help with groceries, mentioning the baby’s name that passed and other housework. Ms Stewart said that when helping the family note the name of the baby and remember the dates of birth and death for the long term.

“So many people think that they should never mention the baby’s name because they might upset them without stopping to realise that that parent hasn’t forgotten, living with it every single day, and that is often a massive release as they want to talk about their child,” she said.

For more information on Be Empowered Birth and Parenting Classes, visit beempoweredbirth.com. au/ and for Gippsland Parent's Grief Program, visit facebook.com/profile. php?id=61550239143611

Filling an important void Ben McArthur Comment LAST year, I have to admit, it was difficult - difficult to be known by the public as anyone other than “Tom Parry’s replacement”.

Sometimes, the challenge even extends to my colleagues. I can’t tell you how many times in my short stint at the Gippsland Times I’ve heard “last time I spoke to Tom Parry”.

In a way, I feel a connection to Tom Parry despite never meeting him. I have his stress ball on my desk, his old calling cards and sometimes I even use his old notepad.

As I understand, he was a crucial cog in our rural paper who, it seems, wrote nearly every story I did toward the end of last year: Red Knights Toy Run, anniversaries, book releases, shows, Remembrance Day … and many more.

Despite leaving five months ago, his reflection still got a mention in the previous issue of the Gippsland Times and so it’s only fitting that mine is mentioned in the next one.

My three favourite stories of 2023 Preserving a piece of history “WHEN will you get this done?”

That was what Mal Cotton asked one summer afternoon at a workshop located on an old Air Force base when Jeff, Rick and Lindsay decided it was time to restore the Airspeed Oxford to its original lustre.

“I don’t know, Mal, I’m not putting a date on it,” responded Jeff Sharpe.

2022-23 ANNUAL REPORT

2022 - 2023 has been an important year in the life of our organisation as we work to continue improving the delivery of health care services to our communities. We are proud of the way we have worked together to resolve challenges and better services.

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Take a look at our 2022 - 23 Annual Report on our website.

This is an interesting read about a restoration in Fulham regarding an old Airspeed Oxford. I wrote multiple stories on the subject of restorations this year. I never planned to, but the topic kept coming to me for some reason.

Please visit the recruitment section on our website: www.cghs.com.au

Sale Hospital Phone: (03) 5143 8600 Heyfield Hospital Phone: (03) 5139 7979

Maffra District Hospital Phone: (03) 5147 0100 Stretton Park Aged Care Phone: (03) 51 47 2331

Page 10 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

Local knights in shining armour EVERY now and then a beat-up car on a Saturday afternoon will drive past Breed Street, Traralgon and observe the scenes at Agnes Brereton Reserve.

The car will watch up to 100 armoured knights, witches, sorceresses and barbarians fight on a sports oval with toy arrows, foam swords and lots of makeup.

The car will stop, honk its horn, shout "nerds!” then drive off.

LARP in shining armour.

Photo: Ben McArthur

This was a story about a Traralgon LARP (Live Action Role Playing) group that fight each other with fake weapons and costumes. It’s an interesting study about a life that most people will never be a part of or understand. I have plans to go further on this topic - so stay tuned.

The life of a travelling showman SHOWMEN, they live life on the road, travelling everywhere, entertaining everyone right up until their last moments. It's what happened to the world's greatest (and worst) showmen like P.T. Barnum, Tom Norman, and the Australian Bosey Cusko.

The Gippsland Times was told in the back of a caravan at the Maffra Show by an old showman that his father has a dream that one day his son "will open the door" to his trailer and find him dead.

Another story about a life most of us will never be a part of (a pattern is emerging).

For me, the best and most interesting stories to write are about the everyday person who happen to have an interesting hobby or peculiar job.

I think this is partly because these tales enable readers to be briefly transported into a life that most of us never imagined living. And the other part is because interviews with the everyday person is usually just sit, listen and ask questions.

The everyday person is generally the most honest subject a journalist can speak to and don’t have any of that annoying red tape that others, like politicians or government employees, have.

AND of course, a big thank you to all the readers for making last year so memorable.

Good luck everyone on your New Year's resolutions from the Gippsland Times team and I!

News

www.gippslandtimes.com.au

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Crowds flocked to Friday’s Twilight Market.

AFTER a period of heavy rain, the sun came out at Loch Sport as thousands poured in from across the state to celebrate the Christmas period as well as the Loch Sport Spectacular Carnival and Twilight Market.

The carnival has been an annual staple of Loch Sport for decades, running from Thursday December 28 to New Year’s Day. This year saw fantastic crowds and families enjoying themselves, but weather events in the region have once again adversely affected potential numbers. The cost of living crisis and long drive may have been a factor for many potential carnival-goers.

“It was terrific, apart from the weather,” event organiser Mike Bedford said.

“New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day had good weather. I think numbers are down because of the fire and floods over the past few months.

“But the rides were terrific, as were the (New Year’s) fireworks - everybody had an absolute ball.

“There’s the young families we see year after year. We see the kids that were four or five-years-old and are now teenagers or parents themselves. We’ve been doing this for about 25 years.”

The first day’s event was a twilight market, an array of about 40 local stall holders selling mostly locally-produced and handmade goods.

The day also featured dodgem cars, carnival rides, food trucks, show bags, sideshows and bush markets.

“The market was a great success on the 28th (of December). It was windy but we staged it and it was very popular. It was very successful,” Mr Bedford said.

The carnival continued over the following five days including a spectacular fireworks display

Service driven, cost effective, based in Sale

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lasting about 20 minutes to mark the New Year.

“I’ve learned with experience what happens is people normally come in for Christmas and disappear on New Year’s Day,” Mr Bedford said.

“When we came in on Boxing Day the roads were underwater because we had all that flooding in Longford, so it put a lot of people off … (but) some came in just for New Year’s Eve, and all took off on New Year’s Day.” Secretary of Loch Sport Business & Tourism, Tony Patchell said the event would not be possible without the its sponsors - Wellington Shire Council, Loch Sport Foodworks, Russell Thomas, C Shell Real Estate, General Store/ Post Office, Lineal Homes, Marina Hotel, Loch Sport Caravan Park, LS Garden and Hardware, Mediation Institute, Ventura Electrical, Loch Sport Pharmacy, Connect Remedial and CMV Trucks & Buses.

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Event organiser, Mike Bedford, said the event Photo: Contributed was a fantastic success.

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Crowd numbers were affected by poor weather before and during the event. Photo: Contributed

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Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 – Page 11

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY THESE PARTICIPATING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Crossword Puzzle No. 8567

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS 1. Which animal can be seen on the World Wildlife Fund logo?

2. Who was the lead singer of the Australian band INXS? 3. What is the emergency response number for Australia?

4. If I was visiting the town of Port Arthur, what state/territory would I be in?

TWO POINTERS 5. A doctor will typically do a scratch test to check for what condition?

6. Who wrote and sings the song ‘Up There Cazaly’?

7. What is the art of cutting shrubs into ornamental shapes called?

8. What is the ‘Hand of Faith’?

THREE POINTERS 9. Which actor played Agent Smith in the Matrix movies?

10. In which town did the Pied Piper play?

11. Before Mercedes, which F1 team did Lewis Hamilton drive for?

12. What do you call the area towards the rear (aft) of a boat?

FOUR POINTERS 13. True or false. Corn will always have an even number of rows on each cob?

14. What type of rock formation is Uluru?

FIVE POINTER 15. Multiple choice questions? One point for each correct answer.

1. Which of the following is NOT a fruit? a) Rhubarb b) Tomatoes c) Avocados 2. What number was the Apollo mission that successfully put a man on the moon for the first time in human history? a) Apollo 11 b) Apollo 12 c) Apollo 13 3. Who was the lead singer of the band ‘The Who’? a) Don Henley b) Roger Daltry c) Robert Plant 4. Who directed the Academy Award-winning movie, Gladiator? a) Ridley Scott b) Steven Spielberg c) James Cameron 5. What country is Prague in? a) Hungary b) Austria c) Czech Republic HOW DID YOU FARE? 37: Top of the class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done; 15-22: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement; 0-8: Hit the books.

ACROSS 1 Peruvian animal 5 Like better 9 Chemical compound 11 Anger 12 Begins to develop 13 Domestic animal 15 Plant juice 16 Dwelling 18 Storehouse 20 African river 21 Consumer 23 Beleaguers 25 Uncovered 26 Curves of equal pressure 28 Wan 30 Graceful horse 32 Gazed steadily at 33 Squandering 34 Sheep’s cry 36 No score 37 Scottish musician 38 Ignited 39 Frozen shower 40 Come forth 41 Prepared

DOWN 2 Letting contracts 3 Wise counsellor 4 Advantage 5 Assures 6 Clenched hand 7 Period of time 8 Kept under 10 Paradise 14 Icy cold 17 Born 18 Doubtful 19 Mexican dollar 22 Heaven 24 Equipment 25 Low-ranking peer 27 Barrier 28 Well-mannered 29 Traditional story 31 Beak 32 Document 33 Crown of the head 35 Goal

1

2

3

4

5

9

10

12

8

15 17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25 26

27

28

30

31

29

32

33 34

35

38

Target Time No. 0191 Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may be used only once.

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in ‘s’.

14

16 18

7

11

13

36

37 39

40

How to play...

6

O F I T N C A E F

41

Sudoku No. 0191 How to play...

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9.

Target: Average - 30, Good - 36, Excellent - 44+

Answers 1. Panda 2. Michael Hutchence 3. 000 4. Tasmania 5. Allergies 6. Mike Brady 7. Topiary 8. Gold nugget 9. Hugo Weaving 10. Hamelin 11. McLaren 12. Stern 13. True 14. Sandstone 15. 1. a) Rhubarb 2. b) Apollo 11 3. b) Roger Daltry 4. a) Ridley Scott 5. c) Czech Republic

Take some

time out over the holidays... try some

puzzles!

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Page 12 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

News

www.gippslandtimes.com.au

Preparing for the bushfire season

Locals are being warned about the dangers this bushfire season.

Photo: Contributed

Calls for new national parks WITH Victoria ending native forest logging, conservationists, citizen scientists and lawyers are calling on the state government to get on with creating new national parks in the Central Highlands and East Gippsland.

The Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC) has recently released a report on the need for immediate protection of critically important forests of the Central Highlands, home to forest-dependent Leadbeater’s Possums and Greater Gliders whose survival depends upon the secure protection of their habitat.

VEAC has recommended ‘a large protected area such as a national park is commensurate with the outstanding natural values of forests in the Central Highlands around Marysville and Toolangi and around Erica, Noojee, Powelltown in Gippsland.

The report says protecting more forests would link the existing Yarra Ranges, Kinglake, Lake Eildon and Baw Baw National Parks and the Bunyip, Cathedral Range and Moondarra State Parks.

Lawyers and citizen scientists are calling on the government to protect and respect Victoria’s native forests, including the creation of new national parks as well as assessing the most outstanding of them for World Heritage listing, with place-based Traditional Owner management at their core.

More than three years ago, the Federal Court ruled that “Given the current Critically Endangered status of Leadbeater’s possum, and its predicted severe ongoing decline, including significant risks of extinction, all current and prospective suitable habitat is critical for its survival, and necessary for its recovery”, consistent with a draft of the species’ National Recovery Plan, yet none of its habitat has been formally protected since and no recovery plan made.

Environmentalists and campaigners have congratulated the state government on ending most native forest logging in Victoria from January 1, 2024, but they have expressed concerns that logging will continue in other parts of the state under another name.

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More than 65,000 hectares of public land is still on the chopping block post January 1, with logging centred around Benalla, Mansfield, Bendigo, Central and East Gippsland, the Mid-Murray and Western Victoria.

Environmental Justice Australia Campaigns Manager, Luke Chamberlain said it was time to get on with creating new national parks to save gliders, owls and other precious animals and plants from extinction, protect drinking water, and safeguard the climate.

"It's time to get on with supporting traditional owner management and regional communities to develop the industries of the future, instead of big businesses destroying habitat of endangered species," he said.

"With the Australian government rewriting our national environment laws, there's an opportunity to end the reckless destruction caused by Regional Forest Agreements over more than two decades."

adequate for a fire appliance or other emergency vehicles to safely drive onto your property.

Remember that in a serious fire event, all emergency agencies will be fully committed, and its unlikely that you'll get any immediate assistance, so plan to rely on your own resources for some time.

A large bushfire in rural areas can produce an ember attack on towns some distance away, so a bushfire is not just a threat to the rural area, it can impact on towns and even cities.

About the author: Phil Glover is a veteran of a 40 year fire service career, with 35 years served in New Zealand and five years in Victoria.

During his five-year deployment with CFA, Glover was the Officer In Charge of the Morwell Fire Brigade, Regional Operations Officer and Gippsland Area Fire Investigation Coordinator.

Fertilizer ● Gypsum ● Lime ●

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and depending on the fuel load and types, and the topography, the fire development and direction becomes unpredictable.

The basic things you can do to reduce the risk to your property include reducing the fuel load around your property, slash the grass, clean any vegetation out that might be growing in your house gutters that might catch fire and assist the fire to get into your roof, think about how an ember attack might impact on your property, such as setting fire to nylon shade cloth material, and put children's plastic play areas and toys in your shed or garage.

Take your garden hose inside and remove plastic tap connections, which may melt and distort in the heat and prevent you from connecting your hose after a fire has passed through or over your property.

Liaise with your neighbours and agree on an escape plan, and an escape route, and maintain contact with your neighbours and family members.

Know where your safe refuge areas are located and what safe routes there are to get there.

Have important documents in a bag or suitcase and in a place where you can grab it if you need to leave in a hurry.

Pack plenty of drinking water, medications, clothing and woollen blankets in your car.

Reverse your car into your garage or carport and have the keys in the car or on you so you don't waste time searching for your keys.

Download the emergency warning apps on your phone and monitor them. Keep your phone fully charged.

Consider your pets or any farm animals, horses etc, who will rely on you for their survival. If possible, move your animals to a safer location while the fire danger exists.

If there is imminent danger of a wildfire impacting on your property or your community, leave early, and be mindful that the roads may be covered by debris and avoid creating a traffic hazard.

Remember that your car's engine requires oxygen to operate, and in a severe fire situation, the fire will consume the oxygen, and your car's engine may stop. Remember too that you require oxygen to breathe, and if the fire is so intense that your car engine stops, due to a lack of oxygen, you will probably be unable to function too. That situation occurred during the 2009 Black Saturday Bushfires in Victoria.

Seek advice from your local fire brigade, and make sure the access onto your property is

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WE'RE being warned by the various state and federal government agencies that the fire danger levels for this season indicate we're in for a high risk of vegetation fires, and we need to be prepared.

The combination of high rainfall and high temperatures has created high growth rates of vegetation, which will increase the fuel load around your property or rural community.

Bushfires will always occur, and the causes vary from lightning strikes, hot vehicle exhausts, unattended or abandoned campfires, human error or arson and many more, and we should take steps to mitigate the risk of a fire occurring and reduce

the consequences of a fire that does occur.

If you live in a fire danger area, with trees, long grass and bush on or surrounding your property, there are some basic steps you should take to reduce the risk to your property.

As a 'rule of thumb' the flame height will be about twice the height of the fuel, so if you have grass and shrubs on your property which are (say) one metre high, the top of the flames will be approximately three metres high, which are bent over by the wind, and pre-heats the fuel ahead, which assists the forward rate of fire spread.

For every 10 degrees increase in slope of the land, the fire will double in intensity and forward rate of spread, and a fast running vegetation fire quickly becomes unstoppable.

A bushfire will generate its own wind currents,

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Expert Comment Phil Glover

Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 – Page 13

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Page 14 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

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Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 – Page 15

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Heyfield Police’s impound spree WAS Heyfield Police paying more attention in December or was there simply more road shenanigans? Either way, three vehicles were impounded.

No need for speed

to appear at the Sale Magistrates Court at a later date for traffic related offences.

Heyfield Police said at the time they were focusing on speed zones in the CBD of Heyfield and surrounding townships.

to be charged on summons for the offence of driving while exceeding the prescribed concentration of alcohol.

Disqualified driver discovered

ON Wednesday, December 13 at around 8.40am, Heyfield Police were doing speed detecting in the school zone on Davis Street, Heyfield.

Police observed a grey Ford Ranger travelling north, allegedly doing 57 kilometres per hour in the 40 km/h zone. Police intercepted the Ranger and discovered that the 28-year-old female driver held a learner’s permit and was driving without a supervisor driver.

The vehicle was impounded for a period of 30 days at a cost of $1133 and the driver will be summonsed

Impound for failed breath test HEYFIELD Police intercepted a vehicle in a residential street in Heyfield at 1.30pm on December 20. The driver, a 57-year-old Heyfield woman, allegedly failed a roadside preliminary breath test and later returned a reading of twice the legal limit in an evidentiary breath test.

The woman’s vehicle was impounded and her licence was immediately suspended. She is expected

ON December 23, 2023 at around 10pm, Heyfield Police intercepted a Ford Territory on the Traralgon-Maffra Road, Heyfield.

During the intercept, police discovered that the driver, a 32-year-old male from Heyfield was allegedly driving during a period of disqualification.

The male’s vehicle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1133 and he will be summonsed to appear at the Sale Magistrates at a later date for traffic related offences.

This learner driver’s vehicle was impounded in Heyfield.

Photos: Victoria Police

A 57-year-old Heyfield woman’s vehicle was impounded after she allegedly returned a breath test reading of twice the legal limit.

Police say a 32-year-old man was driving this vehicle in Heyfield after being disqualified from driving.

Firearms seized in illegal hunting crackdown VICTORIA Police, in connection with Parks Victoria and the Game Management Authority, seized 16 firearms in a joint agency operation targeting illegal hunting in the state’s alpine region last month.

With patrols starting from Heyfield, Myrtleford and Mansfield before deploying into the National Park, this latest compliance operation is a timely reminder for visitors to understand and abide by park regulations.

Firearm and hunting exclusions began in the alpine region from December 16.

Such activity outside of the authorised times and locations poses a significant risk to public safety, especially with increased recreational visitors to the region.

Dogs are also banned from the National Park areas and such compliance formed an additional area of focus throughout the three day operation between December 16 and 18.

In addition to the seized firearms, four infringement notices were issued for offences including illegal hunting and bringing a dog into a park.

Further investigations and prosecutions are to be pursued by Parks Victoria against an additional eight alleged offenders for offences including possessing a firearm and hunting in a National Park not open to hunting, and illegal spotlighting.

With campers and hikers expected to continue flocking to the high country for the summer holidays, Victoria Police says it remains committed to ensuring the safety of those visiting the parks.

Second person located deceased in Buchan POLICE will prepare a report for the Coroner following the discovery of a man’s body in Buchan last Wednesday (December 27).

Officers received information that it was believed a man was camping with a woman who was located deceased following flash flooding on December 26.

A search began of the flood-affected area and the man was located deceased.

Emergency services were called to Cave Road just after 5pm on Tuesday, December 26, after reports

Police Beat with Stefan Bradley of flooding in the area.

Police were told a number of vehicles in the campground area were underwater and several people were safely retrieved from a nearby bridge.

Anyone who has information regarding anyone thought to be missing in the area is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au

Have you seen hoon driving?

YARRAM Police are concerned about a display of hoon driving that occurred around Commercial Road and Bland Street in Yarram between 1am1.30am on Saturday, December 16, describing the behaviour as "dangerous and an unacceptable risk to the community".

If anyone was a witness to this driving or has any information, phone Yarram Police Station on 5182 5033 or Crime Stoppers.

Op Roadwise wraps up OPERATION Roadwise - which commenced on Friday, December 15, 2023 and concluded at 11.59pm on Monday, January 1 2024 - was a statewide road policing operation to provide visible enforcement on major arterial roads and highways.

Roadwise began as the number of lives lost in 2023 on Victorian roads surged to 279, surpassing the 241 total for all of 2022.

It’s the highest number of lives for the period in 15 years.

The operation ran for an extra six days to cover the busy New Year period. Alcohol and drug testing were a focus, with police intelligence showing there was an increase in the number of drivers recording low-range drink driving readings (0.05 - 0.069 BAC)

in December.

Detections were around four per cent higher than the typical monthly average.

Police say the increase in low-range drink driving detections is likely due to drivers miscalculating their alcohol intake, suggesting many are prepared to risk having a few drinks at end-of-year social functions before getting behind the wheel.

Last year, police detected 511 drink driving offences from 201,091 preliminary breath tests and a further 375 drug driving offences from 5122 roadside drug tests.

Man killed by falling tree branch A MAN was killed by a falling tree branch in Caringal on Boxing Day morning after wild weather stormed through the region.

The man was struck by the branch at a home on Rusks Road, Caringal, just north of Traralgon at 9am on Tuesday, December 26.

Emergency responders were called to the scene where they attempted to revive the injured man but he could not be saved.

The fatality in Caringal came as the whole of Victoria was under severe thunderstorm warnings with hail, thunder, damaging winds and floods hitting the state.

Detective charged with misconduct in public office A detective senior constable from Crime Command has been charged following an internal investigation.

The 36-year-old male officer has been charged with one count of misconduct in public office.

The charge relates to an alleged incident that occurred between 2021 and 2023 while the member was on duty.

He will appear before a court at a later date. No further details were provided, including where he was based.

Be cyber safe Zaida Glibanovic SCAMMERS are getting smarter every year - finding complex and convincing ways to take your money.

In 2018, Victorians reported more than $20 million lost in more than 39,000 reports of scams.

A scam is an attempt to intentionally mislead a person, usually for financial gain.

Scams can come via mail, email, telephone, over the internet and door-to-door.

The federal government’s 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy outlines how the government will try to improve cyber security on a government, business and individual level.

Nine out of 10 state government organisations experienced a cyber incident last year.

Most cyber incidents involve ‘phishing’ where a scammer sends an email message to trick the recipient into giving away private information such as usernames, passwords and financial credentials.

Professor Matthew Warren, director of the RMIT Centre for Cyber Security Research and Innovation, said the strategy was a good step forward in protecting the country from online threats.

The new national cyber security strategy highlights several key changes and investments.

These include:  Support small and medium businesses to deal with cyber incidents;  Strengthen critical infrastructure and enhance government cyber security;  Activate regional and global cyber resilience initiatives; and  Protect and respond against ransomware attacks.

“The strategy demonstrates the government recognises the importance of protecting all of Australia from critical infrastructure to small businesses and citizens,” Professor Warren said.

The Gippsland Times reached out to Victoria Police to get the latest scam prevention advice.

Victoria Police provided a ‘Scam prevention checklist’ to teach people how to spot a scam.  If it sounds too good to be true, it is probably a scam.  Use the S.T.O.P method to identify scam or ‘Phishing’ Emails.

The S.T.O.P method is:  Suspicious - unexpected, has spelling errors and/or doesn’t look right;  Telling you to click on something or provide personal information;  Offering something amazing, and;  Pushing you to act quickly.

Check the facts  Check the company website to confirm offers.  Check the company has a telephone number and/or email address.  Check if the company has an Australian Business Number or Australian Company Number at Abr.business.gov.au.

If you have been scammed report it at: cyber. gov.au/acsc/report If you have been scammed report it at: cyber.gov.au/acsc/report.

Classifieds all us to od da ayy o on n5 5143 143 9302 or emaill

cllassiffied ds@gippslland dtimes.com.au Page 16 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

GP P1644964

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Floods sour festive season

Coverage of the heavy rain and flooding after Christmas was featured in the Friday, December 29 issue of the Gippsland Times.

Here are some more photos.

Tarra Valley Road was left resembling a creek.

SES Sale on Christmas morning attending to a large tree down at Bengworden. Fortunately, a Photo: Contributed local was on hand to assist with their tractor when they arrived.

Rate increases to be capped COUNCIL rate increases will be capped at the forecast Consumer Price Index for next financial year, the state government says.

Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne announced on Friday, December 22 the rate cap of 2.75 per cent for 2024-25 under the state government’s Fair Go Rates system.

“Fair Go Rates mean households have certainty over their council rates and in 2024-25, the increase will be kept to the forecast inflation rate,” she said.

“The rates cap has made a real difference to household budgets over the past eight years and we’ll keep working to reduce costs for families.”

The government accepted the recommendation of the Essential Services Commission regarding the cap, which is equal to the forecast Consumer Price Index for 2024-25. The rate cap limits the amount all Victorian councils can increase their total revenue from general rates and municipal charges.

Ministerial Guidelines have also been released for service rates and charges for the collection of kerbside waste and recycling from properties.

e n i l n O Gippsland Times

Flooding in Longford.

Sale SES on Boxing Day, after 80mm of rain Photo: SES Sale Unit fell during the night.

Facebook: Sheryl Woodall

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Photo: Helen Jeges

Service rates and charges used to fund waste collection and management are not subject to the rate cap.

The guidelines detail that services that provide a general benefit to the whole municipality, such as tree planting, graffiti removal and street cleaning, should not be funded by service rates or charges to individual ratepayers.

The state government introduced the Fair Go Rates system in 2016 to reduce cost of living pressures.

In the decade before the introduction of the rate cap, council rates increased by an average of six per cent per annum. The average rate cap between 2016-17 and 2023-24 was 2.25 per cent.

Councils are able to apply for a higher rate cap if they can demonstrate community support and a critical need for spending on services or projects that require a rate rise above the capped amount.

There were no applications for an exemption this financial year, when the cap was set at 3.5 per cent.

For more information, go to localgovernment. vic.gov.au/council-innovation-and-performance

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Accommodation Accommodation Wanted Lease To Let Business Opportunities Education and Training Employment Services Professional Situations Vacant Phone: 5143 9333 Situations Wanted Adult Services Computers Entertainment Events Fax: 5144 7308 For Hire Holidays and Travel Home Maintenance Houses for Removal Legal Email: classifieds@ Lost and Found Meetings Missing Persons Party Planners Personals Pet gippslandtimes.com.au Cemetery Public Notice Religion Tenders 4WD Caravans Cars Machinery Agistment

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How to BENGWORDEN place your For Sale • advertisement

Cattle agistment, reasonable rates.

PH: 0427 555 807

APRICOTS

PHONE

(03) 5143 9333

FAX

Garage Sales

(03) 5144 7308

E-MAIL

IN PERSON

classifieds@ gippslandtimes.com.au 74 Macalister St, Sale or newsagents

Deadlines for

classifieds

Tuesday’s paper before 9:30am Monday

Friday’s paper

before 9:30am Thursday CREDIT CARD FACILITIES We accept

More options for placing classifieds in person Maffra Newsagency Newry Store

Fresh from Goulburn Valley. Due in Sale approx. Early January.

10kg - $ 35, 20kg - $ 60.

Ring now to place your order 0439 768 671.

Heyfield Newsagency

CLASSIFIED GUIDELINES Car advertisers Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement: - Cash price of motor car - If car is registered, registration number - If unregistered, the engine, vin or chassis number.

Photographs Photographs for Death and In Memoriam notices will cost according to the space they use.

Please email high resolution images to classifieds@gippslandtimes.com.au as we cannot accept photos on a memory stick.

Personal notices All engagement and marriage notices must carry the signatures of BOTH parties. If under 18 the parents’ signatures as well.

Lost and found All ‘found’ advertisements are published free.

Simply provide the details of your find for publication. ‘Lost’ advertisements are paid.

The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertisements Page 18 - Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

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BOOK SALE

SALE

5 Christie Crt. Sat Jan 6.

8am-1pm.

MOVING SALE. Kitchen gear, cupboards, books, plants, gardening gear, paintings.

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CARFree REMOVALS service.

Phone Sam 0488 471 163

Public Notices

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RAFFLE WINNERS Maffra Lions Club

Situations Vacant

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Situations Vacant

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1st or 2nd Yr Apprentice Casual Worker

Shaws Quality Meats have 2 positions available 1st or 2nd year apprenticeship and casual worker for front of counter duties, packing and displaying meat.

No experience required, just a good work ethic.

Applications close 10/1/24.

Please send your resumes to hello@shawsqualitymeats.com.au

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Every day from January 2 to Jan 23rd at St Paul's Cathedral Delbridge Hall, 151 Cunninghame St, Sale, 9am - 4pm.

Sunday opens at 10:30.

1000's books going cheap.

Wanted

Situations Vacant

CLASSIFIEDS TYPESETTER

The Gippsland Times is seeking a person to join our classifieds team.

This is a basic graphic design role which includes preparing classifieds advertising and setting pages for print on deadline mornings as well as assisting customers with counter and telephone enquiries and general reception duties.

You will need to be computer savvy and experience in some or all of the following programs would be desirable: Photoshop, InDesign, Emails, Microsoft Excel and Word. A willingness to learn newspaper-dedicated programs is essential.

A strong grasp of grammar, spelling and touch-typing is essential.

This is a part-time position, approximately 20 hours per week, with extra hours available to cover leave in a job-share capacity.

If you like learning and feel you can accept this challenge, please apply via email to: Classifieds Typesetter C/- Office Manager reception@gippslandtimes.com.au Applications close Friday, January 19, 2024

Christmas raffle results: 1st: Ticket 1412 - Ian 2nd: Ticket 2683 - Brooke 3rd: Ticket 1349 - Narelle 4th: Ticket 3080 - Peter 5th: Ticket 3342 - Doreen 6th: Ticket 1745 - Maureen 7th: Ticket 1992 - Mick

Ask us about our MOTORING DEAL!

Situations Vacant

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DISTRIBUTION CONTROLLER The Gippsland Times is looking for a person to fill the position of Distribution Controller for part of the Sale area.

Duties will include being available of a Monday night/Tuesday morning each week to organise paper distributors. Sourcing new paper deliverers for the Gippsland Times as rounds become available, and the organisation of paper work for new paper deliverers. You will also be required to follow-up on any complaints from non-delivery of the Gippsland Times.

If this sounds like a job you may be interested in please call: The Gippsland Times 5143 9333 or email reception@gippslandtimes.com.au

Want to earn some pocket money?

Gippsland Times Deliverer required for Burling Court ALAMEDA Dr Part Hutchison St once a week

Please call Sue 0403 00 6347

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

We are actively searching for enthusiastic and motivated individuals with a genuine passion for the automotive industry.

We are seeking individuals to commence an apprenticeship in Light Mechanical & Heavy Diesel within our organisation.

This is a fantastic opportunity to start your career in 2024. Apply NOW to fast track your future!

We are also seeking a fully qualified Heavy Diesel Mechanic.

Full details available: www.turnbulltoyota.com.au/careers www.turnbullhino.com.au/careers Forward your application to: Tracey Cox Turnbull Toyota Sale 303 York Street SALE VIC 3850 email: recruitment@turnbulls.com.au

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

Teaching Positions 2024 1 ONGOING PART TIME TEACHING POSITION (0.5FTE)- 5 days per fortnight 1 FIXED TERM FULL TIME TEACHING POSITION (1.0FTE) Applications are invited from suitably experienced persons for the above educational roles. Job share arrangements will be considered for the full time position.

These roles are positions under the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited Schools and Secretariat Agreement 2022.

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

The successful teaching applicants will hold current Victorian Institute of Teaching Registration.

For further information on this exciting opportunity please email reception@sttsale.catholic.edu.au Applications are to include a one page cover letter addressed to the Principal, Anita Little and a CV that includes three professional referees.

Applications are to be emailed to alittle@sttsale.catholic.edu.au Applications close: Monday, January 8, 2024 at 12:00pm. Please note: the interview process may commence prior to the closing date, if a suitable applicant is found, the role may close early. We would encourage applications to be received as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

MORE SITUATIONS VACANT ADVERTISING

ON THE NEXT PAGE ›››

Looking for a career change or opportunity?

A billboard of job vacancies is delivered to your door every Tuesday Check the Situations Vacant section of the

Gippsland Times

Situations Vacant

Deaths

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•

ADMINISTRATION POSITION

Measurement Plus is seeking an Office Administrator for a full-time position based at our Wurruk Workshop. Hours will be Monday - Friday 7:00am to 3:30pm with some flexibility available.

The role will provide administration support to enable the delivery of maintenance services to clients within the Energy Sector.

Duties will include, but not be limited to, the creation and management of new jobs, preparation of reports for both internal and external stakeholders, preparation of job packs, scheduling of work, data entry and general administrative tasks as required.

To be successful in this role, candidates will need: ● Strong written and verbal communication skills ● Excellent attention to detail ● Accurate data entry skills ● Strong organizational and time management skills ● Be proficient in the Microsoft Office suite The position is open to applicants with office administration experience, or can be offered as a Business Administration Traineeship for the right applicant.

To apply, please send a CV and Cover Letter to service@measurement-plus.com.au

Tenders

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TENDER ON SITE CANTEEN SERVICES

We're seeking a suitably qualified company to provide an on site canteen service at Loy Yang B Power Station.

Applicants must be motivated and enthusiastic self-starters with experience in food handling and all the associated food handling qualifications.

You'll need to be available from 8.30am-1pm Tuesday-Friday and during Outages.

We'll provide a commercial grade kitchen and all overheads, including equipment maintenance.

For more information and key selection criteria, please email a request to: lybtenders@loyyangb.com.

Applications close COB Wednesday, 31 January 2024.

Cars

Cars

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FORD 2008 BF 1 tonne, auto, cruise, large tray, alloys, tool boxes, over $5000 spent (w/receipts), reg., genuine callers only, 1XK-5PZ $6900 o.n.o. Ph 0412 325 723.

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MAZDA 2 Genki 2017, top of the range, e.c. in/out, auto, reg. serv'd, r.w.c., one owner, rev. cam, cruise, many extras, new tyres $19,990. 0402 717 852.

NISSAN MAXIMA

STL 2006, 3.5V6, auto., 124,336kms., UBY-940, VGC, $9500 ONO. Phone 0421 102 141.

Caravans

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FORD Mondeo, Titanium, 2017 model, 2 litre turbo diesel, 6 speed auto, full service history, road worthy certificate, ASA-539, 12 mths rego, great condi$23,990. tion with many extras.

Contact 0418 333 681.

Can take this away without spending any more money. $17,500.

Ph: 0419 551 760

JAYCO SWAN

PLACE AN AD IN THE

Gippsland Times

KIA RIO 2010 67,000 kms, 12 mths reg.

FOR YOUR NEXT

Reg, no. YBR-754.

PH: 0498 186 362

Ask us about our MOTORING DEAL!

Deaths

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ALLEN, Keith Godfrey.

(Tiger) 9/05/1944 - 24/12/2023 Passed away peacefully Sunday December 24 with family at his side.

Dearly loved husband of Margaret of 50 years.

Devoted and much loved father of Jeffrey, Michael and Jason.

Loved father-in-law of Krista and Kathryn.

Adored grandpa of Aisha, Declan, Claire and Scott.

Beloved brother of James (Jim), John and Elizabeth, and brother-in-law of Elsie and Rolph (dec.).

A loyal, caring and compassionate husband, father and grandpa who always enjoyed a chat and laugh with his many friends.

Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day.

ALLEN, Keith.

Treasured memories of my dear twin brother Keith. Respected brotherin-law of Rolf (dec.).

Loving, caring, inspiring uncle to Rolf, Kristin, Linda, Antony. Admired by Joanne, Steve and Paul.

My very brave brother.

So sadly missed.

Liz Malmo and family.

ALLEN, Keith Godfrey.

Much loved brother of Jim, John and Liz and brother-in-law to Elsie and Rolf (dec.).

Wonderful husband to Marg and the best Dad to Geoff, Michael and Jason.

Cheeky, fun loving uncle to Terri, Ross and Greg.

A lover of world travel and adventure.

Showed bravery, grace and good humour in the face of a long illness.

Jim and Elsie and family.

BALDWIN (nee Moon), Diane Judith.

"Di, Didy, Dearsie" Died peacefully with family by her side on December 25, 2023 in Sale, aged 76 years.

Loved and cherished wife of Steve.

Mother of Jacinta, Tony, Alicia, and Clare.

Mother-in-law of Curt, Jemma, Dan, and Ben. Gran to Taj, Finn, and Molly; Bas and Euca; Owen, Paddy, and Phebe.

Sister to Jenny, Annie (dec.), Chris (dec.), and Debbie.

Beloved niece, cousin, sister-in-law, aunty and friend to so many.

Di, my special lady, whom I am missing dearly already, I love you.

Steve.

Mummy, I've been mulling and mulling about what to say, which, as you pointed out, is my way. I keep coming back to, thank you and I love you. Thank you for an endless list of everything. I think often of the time we spent physically apart, but am reminded that you told me that Curt is my family now.

That's your way, your unconditional, pragmatic way. You are my first and forever family though and I will have trouble navigating without you.

Your love and constant nurturing set me up for a life well lived. You gave and gave and I am grateful to have been by your side for these last months.

Thank you Dearsie, love Cint.

Dearest Mum/Di/Gran, we are devastated without you darling. We're already taking care of each other though and that will continue. We have a plan, thanks to you. There will be meandering and many a time that we ask, "what would Mum/Di/Gran say or do"? And then we will go on. You nurtured an incredible foundation and as we said, before you left, we love you and we thank you over and over and forever. You showed us that you cared about us. Love Cint, Curt, Tone, Jem, Taj, Finn, and Molly.

Mama, Gare, Di was a wonderful presence in our lives. She filled our home with care, thoughtfulness, wittiness and dependable love. We will miss her gracious energy, delicious desserts, and commitment to music and the arts. She will live on in our sense of justice and capacity for change.

Forever in our hearts.

- Alicia, Dan, Bas, and Euca.

Deaths

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BALDWIN (nee Moon), Diane Judtih.

Didy, you were an exceptional mum to us.

You will always be loved by me, Ben, Owen, Paddy and Phebe. Thank you mum, for naming our daughter. For that reason, and many others, you'll live through her. Phebe has your strong yet gentle energy. Thank you again because you helped raise our sons with your special ways; we'll see you in our boys forever. We will remember you as a gentle yet uniquely strong woman, one in a million, and always up for lovely chats when out and about with Bonnie. As an avid admirer of all things creative, you taught us to appreciate the arts. Your stylish influence will continue to make us better people in this sometimes harsh world.

Even in death, you continue to nourish the garden of Eden that is our life together - everything you've touched is simply so much better for it. Even though we feel lost right now, we owe it to you to find ourselves and keep up your ways. Dearly missed, we all wanted more.

Love Clare, Ben, Owen, Patrick, Phebe, and Buddy.

BROWN, Trevor.

The Mayor, Councillors, CEO and staff of Wellington Shire Council exten d their sincere condolences on the passing of ex-Local Laws Officer, Trevor Brown.

Deaths

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Funerals

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ALLEN. The funeral service for Mr Keith Godfrey "Tiger" Allen will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 1pm on TUESDAY (January 23, 2024) followed by a private cremation.

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

SIM, Trevor Lewis.

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on December 28, 2023.

Aged 91 years.

Dearly loved husband of Kath for 66 years.

Loved father of David, Dianne and Terry, and Graeme.

Loved Pop to Adele and Clayton, Jamella and Corry, Owen and Laura; Crystal and Stephen, Ash and Caitlyn, Shaun; Kylie and Josh, Latoya and Brent.

Loved Pop Pop to Jett, Will, Sam, Billie, Mia, Evee, Olivia, Stella, Colton, Harley, Alli, Max, Lyla, Milla, Indie and Harlow.

TRARALGON 5147 2258

BALDWIN (nee Moon).

The funeral service for Mrs Diane Judith Baldwin will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 2pm TOMORROW (Thursday January 4, 2024) followed by a private cremation.

In Memoriam

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In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MSF Australia (Doctors without Borders).

Please see our website for livestream details.

CARMICHAEL. A funeral service for Mrs Clare Ann Carmichael of Foster WAS HELD on THURSDAY (December 21, 2023).

We also extend our deepest sympathy to SIM, Trevor Lewis.

Trevor's family and Loved brother of Mervyn and Joy of Cobram. friends.

Loved Uncle of Jenny and Gary, Andrew and FLETT (nee Hollonds).

FLETT (nee Hollonds), Coleen, Roger and Kath, A graveside service for Alma Shirley.

Passed away suddenly at Nigel (dec.) and Alison Mrs Alma Shirley Flett will home on December 28, and all their families. be held at the Heyfield Loved and treasured by Lawn Cemetery FRIDAY 2023. Aged 87 years. all of us.

Dearly loved wife of Max WEEK (January 12, 2024) (dec.). at 1pm.

SUNDERLAND, Love d mother and Robert Broughton. mother-in-law of Maxine Peacefully at McDonald and Emmerich, and Wing Nursing Home on Darren and Kerry.

December 26, 2023.

Loved Nana of Emma, Aged 80 years.

Olivia and Marc, Jasmyn Deary loved husband of and Matt, Harli, Addison Marj. and Jayde, and Grady.

Loved father or Robert.

Great Nana of Zen, A much loved poppy to all Annika, Harry and Charlie. his grandchildren.

GOVAN. For funeral arrangements A life well lived for Mrs Rosalie Alice Forever In Our Hearts Forever in our hearts Govan, please check our website or phone: SUNDERLAND, Robert.

Passed away 26/12/2023.

GOVAN, Rosalie Alice.

14/09/1940 - 30/12/2023 Loved brother-in-law of Tubby and Jenny, uncle of 83 years.

Beloved wife to Ken (dec.) Adam (in Heaven), Heath Loved mother of Jasmine and Amber.

Always cheerful. (dec.), and David.

Many happy memories.

Now tending God's Mum, PARKER. garden.

Goodbye sweet lady.

A funeral service for Mr You are now with Dad and Graeme Ronald Parker of Jasmine, your mother, WHITE, Joel Terence.

Passed away surrounded Yarram WAS HELD on grandmother, and sister.

The world has lost a by family and friends after WEDNESDAY (December wonderful soul. 'Til we a courageous fight at 20, 2023).

Latrobe Regional Hospital meet again, "Forever your Son - on Wednesday December 27, 2023. Aged 39 years.

David" Devoted husband of Rikki.

Loving father of Monique and Ella.

Loving son of Dean and Veronica.

Loving brother of Sam, SIM. Ben and Bianca.

A graveside service for Mr Son-in-law of John and Trevor Lewis Sim will be Wendy. held at the Maffra Lawn Special mate to Coco.

Cemetery on FRIDAY A wonderful person, (January 5, 2024) so loving and kind, commencing at 1pm.

What beautiful memories you have left behind, Sharing and caring, always content Loved and respected wherever you went.

WHITEHOUSE, Gayla.

Central Gippsland Health acknowledges with sadness the passing of Gayla Whitehouse, long standing employee and respected nurse at Maffra Hospital. Gayla was a compassionate and kind nurse, colleague and friend. She will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Gayla's husband and sons during this difficult time.

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WHITE. The funeral service and committal for cremation for Mr. Joel White will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway Traralgon on FRIDAY (January 5, 2024) commencing at 11am.

Joel's service will also be livestreamed.

To view the livestream, please visit our website.

latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

The ones we love never go away, They walk beside us every day.

SIM, Trevor Lewis.

Passed away peacefully at home.

Loving brother of Dorothy and Bud (dec.) Knight.

Loved Uncle of Donald and Julie, Mark and Tanya, Colin and Nicole and their families.

Forever in our hearts.

Funerals

BLACKWOOD, Victor William (Vic) 27/06/1948 - 05/01/2023 One year ago my heart was broken into a million pieces, and an emptiness is left inside of me.

My darling Vic, if only we could turn back time.

All the beautiful memories of our life together are in my heart forever.

You're forever in my thoughts.

Sweetheart, I love you and miss you so very much.

Love Maree xxxx Dad, My heart is filled with so many wonderful memories, and I will hold onto them forever.

Dad you were my hero and inspiration and I think of you every day. You hold a special place in my heart. I love you and miss you.

Love Chriso xx GIESCHEN, Freddie.

2/1/1996 Twenty-eight years have passed. The precious memories of our loved one are ours to keep in our hearts forever.

Never forgotten and always loved.

Dorothy, Jennifer, Robert, Colin, Graeme and families.

PERRY, Troy James.

31/12/86 - 31/12/12 11 years since you left us, but we think of you always and talk about you. We love and miss you greatly.

Love from all your family.

R.I.P

Contact us for friendly advice on placing a personal message for a loved one classifieds@ gippslandtimes .com.au

SUNDERLAND. A graveside service for Mr Robert Broughton Sunderland will be held at the Maffra Lawn Cemetery on WEDNESDAY (January 3, 2024) at 2pm.

Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 - Page 19

Bereavement Thanks

•

ALTHAUS, Helmut.

Helmut's family sincerely thank Bradley, Letts Funeral Services and Mr. Peter Centra for their valuable guidance and assistance. We also thank the staff of Critical Care Unit at Central Gippsland Health for the care and support you provided.

To all the staff at Ashleigh House, thank you, you made Helmut's past 15 months so very memorable. He so enjoyed participating in all the fun and various activities that were provided, not only for Helmut but all the residents, our everlasting thanks to you.

To Helmut's many friends thank you for your kind support.

Len and Lyn Althaus.

Bereavement Thanks

•

JACKSON, William John.

"Jacko" Heather, Lauren, John, Jayne, Matt and Families wish to thank all who attended the celebration of John's life. For all the cards, phone calls, flowers, gifts and kind wishes received.

To Reverend David Perryman, Denise Vranek, for conducting the service.

May Kyne for the lovely music, Lindsay Aldersea, J.P Association, Doug Richardson for your kind words during the service.

Letts Funeral Service for your care and support during a difficult time. We would also like to extend great thanks to Jen's Flowers for creating a very fitting tribute. SMCA for recognizing John's cricket achievements. The Mechanic's Hall organizers and Al's Kitchen for taking care of the refreshments after the service. Dr Iain Nicholson for your kinds words at John's service and continued medical care of John throughout his life. The Masonic Members for attending. To all at The Royal Freemasons Sale, friends and carers for your love and support.

For friendly advice on ho h w tot place a perersrsona nal message to a lolved one plelease call:

5143 9333

or email:

classifieds@gippslandtimes.com.au Funeral Directors

•

Barry & Annette Lett

67 Macarthur Street, Sale

Phone 5143 1232

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Celebrating life...with care.

Honour your loved ones and share their story

When you lose someone close to you, it can be hard to put your thoughts and feelings into words.

A personal message in the Gippsland TImes can say so much.

Scott Rossetti & Staff 1390 Maffra Road Sale

03 5143 2477

www.gippslandfuneralservices.com.au GP1666006

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Page 20 - Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

For friendly advice on how to place a message, contact

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Sport

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Your clubs season 2024 fixture SALE (GIPPSLAND LEAGUE)

Rd 9 - June 15 vs Paynesville (H) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Boisdale-Briag (A) Rd 11 - June 29 vs Lindenow (H) Rd 12 - July 13 vs Wy Yung (A) Rd 13 - July 20 vs Lucknow (A) Rd 14 - July 27 vs Lakes Entrance (H) Rd 15 - August 3 vs OSR (A) Rd 16 - August 10 vs Boisdale-Briag (H) Rd 17 - August 17 vs Paynesville (A)

BOISDALE-BRIAGOLONG (EAST GIPPSLAND)

Rd 5 - May 11 vs Gormandale (H) Rd 6 - May 18 - BYE Rd 7 - May 25 vs TTU (A) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Sale City (H) Rd 9 - June 15 vs YYN (A) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Cowwarr (H) Rd 11 - June 29 vs Woodside (A) Rd 12 - July 6 vs Rosedale (A) Rd 13 - July 13 vs Glengarry (H) Rd 14 - July 20 vs Churchill (A) Rd 15 - July 27 vs Yarram (H) Rd 16 - August 3 vs Gormandale (A) Rd 17 - August 10 - BYE Rd 18 - August 17 vs TTU (H)

Rd 3 - April 27 vs Gormandale (A) Rd 4 - May 4 vs Heyfield (H) Rd 5 - May 11 vs TTU (A) Rd 6 - May 18 vs Sale City (A) Rd 7 - May 25 vs YYN (H) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Cowwarr (H) Rd 9 - June 15 vs Woodside (A) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Rosedale (H) Rd 11 - June 29 vs Glengarry (A) Rd 12 - July 6 vs Churchill (A) Rd 13 - July 13 - BYE Rd 14 - July 20 vs Gormandale (H) Rd 15 - July 27 vs Heyfield (A) Rd 16 - August 3 vs TTU (H) Rd 17 - August 10 vs Sale City (H) Rd 18 - August 17 vs YYN (A)

ROSEDALE (NORTH GIPPSLAND) COWWARR (NORTH GIPPSLAND)

Rd 1 - April 6 vs Maffra (Away) Rd 2 - April 13 vs Warragul (Home) Rd 3 - April 20 vs Moe (A) Rd 4 - April 27 vs Wonthaggi (H) Rd 5 - May 4 vs Drouin (A) Rd 6 - May 11 vs Traralgon (H) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Leongatha (A) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Morwell (H) Rd 9 - June 8 vs Bairnsdale (A) Rd 10 - June 15 vs Moe (H) Rd 11 - June 22 vs Wonthaggi (A) Rd 12 - June 29 vs Maffra (H) Rd 13 - July 13 vs Warragul (A) Rd 14 - July 20 vs Drouin (home) Rd 15 - July 27 vs Traralgon (H) Rd 16 - August 3 vs Leongatha (H) Rd 17 - August 17 vs Morwell (A) Rd 18 - August 24 vs Bairnsdale (H)

MAFFRA (GIPPSLAND LEAGUE)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Lucknow (H) Rd 2 - April 20 vs Stratford (A) Rd 3 - April 27 vs Lucknow (H) Rd 4 - May 4 vs Lakes Entrance (A) Rd 5 - May 11 - BYE Rd 6 - May 18 vs OSR (H) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Paynesville (A) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Wy Yung (H) Rd 9 - June 15 vs Lindenow (A) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Stratford (H) Rd 11 - June 29 vs Lucknow (A) Rd 12 - July 13 vs Lakes Entrance (H) Rd 13 - July 20 vs OSR (A) Rd 14 - July 27 vs Paynesville (H) Rd 15 - August 3 vs Wy Yung (A) Rd 16 - August 10 vs Stratford (A) Rd 17 - August 17 vs Lindenow (H)

SALE CITY (NORTH GIPPSLAND)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Heyfield (A) Rd 2 - April 20 vs TTU (H) Rd 3 - April 27 vs Sale City (A) Rd 4 - May 4 vs YYN (H) Rd 5 - May 11 vs Cowwarr (A) Rd 6 - May 18 vs Woodside (H) Rd 7 - May 25 - BYE Rd 8 - June 1 vs Glengarry (A) Rd 9 - June 15 vs Churchill (H) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Yarram (A) Rd 11 - June 29 vs Gormandale (H) Rd 12 - July 6 vs Heyfield (H) Rd 13 - July 13 vs TTU (A) Rd 14 - July 20 vs Sale City (H) Rd 15 - July 27 vs YYN (A) Rd 16 - August 3 vs Cowwarr (H) Rd 17 - August 10 vs Woodside (A) Rd 18 - August 17 - BYE

WOODSIDE (NORTH GIPPSLAND)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Sale City (A) Rd 2 - April 20 vs YYN (H) Rd 3 - April 27 - BYE Rd 4 - May 4 vs Woodside (A) Rd 5 - May 11 vs Rosedale (H) Rd 6 - May 18 vs Glengarry (A) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Churchill (H) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Yarram (A) Rd 9 - June 15 vs Gormandale (H) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Heyfield (A) Rd 11 - June 29 vs TTU (H) Rd 12 - July 6 vs Sale City (H) Rd 13 - July 13 vs YYN (A) Rd 14 - July 20 - BYE Rd 15 - July 27 vs Woodside (H) Rd 16 - August 3 vs Rosedale (A) Rd 17 - August 10 vs Glengarry (H) Rd 18 - August 17 vs Churchill (A)

GORMANDALE (NORTH GIPPSLAND)

Rd 1 - April 6 vs Sale (H) Rd 2 - April 13 vs Drouin (A) Rd 3 - April 20 vs Leongatha (H) Rd 4 - April 27 vs Bairnsdale (A) Rd 5 - May 4 vs Morwell (H) Rd 6 - May 11 vs Wonthaggi (A) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Moe (H) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Traralgon (A) Rd 9 - June 8 vs Warragul (H) Rd 10 - June 15 vs Leongatha (A) Rd 11 - June 22 vs Drouin (H) Rd 12 - June 29 vs Sale (A) Rd 13 - July 13 vs Bairnsdale (H) Rd 14 - July 20 vs Morwell (A) Rd 15 - July 27 vs Wonthaggi (H) Rd 16 - August 3 vs Moe (A) Rd 17 - August 17 vs Traralgon (H) Rd 18 - August 24 vs Warragul (A)

STRATFORD (EAST GIPPSLAND)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Cowwarr (H) Rd 2 - April 20 vs Woodside (A) Rd 3 - April 27 vs Rosedale (H) Rd 4 - May 4 vs Glengarry (A) Rd 5 - May 11 - BYE Rd 6 - May 18 vs Yarram (H) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Gormandale (H) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Heyfield (A) Rd 9 - June 15 vs TTU (H) Rd 10 - June 22 - BYE Rd 11 - June 29 vs YYN (A) Rd 12 - July 6 vs Cowwarr (A) Rd 13 - July 13 vs Woodside (H) Rd 14 - July 20 vs Rosedale (A) Rd 15 - July 27 vs Glengarry (H) Rd 16 - August 3 vs Churchill (H) Rd 17 - August 10 vs Yarram (A) Rd 18 - August 17 vs Gormandale (A)

HEYFIELD (NORTH GIPPSLAND)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs TTU (A) Rd 2 - April 20 vs Sale City (H) Rd 3 - April 27 vs YYN (A) Rd 4 - May 4 vs Cowwarr (H) Rd 5 - May 11 - BYE Rd 6 - May 18 vs Rosedale (A) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Glengarry (H) Rd 8 - June 1 vs Churchill (A) Rd 9 - June 15 vs Yarram (H) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Gormandale (A) Rd 11 - June 29 vs Heyfield (H) Rd 12 - July 6 vs TTU (H) Rd 13 - July 13 vs Sale City (A) Rd 14 - July 20 vs YYN (H) Rd 15 - July 27 vs Cowwarr (A) Rd 16 - August 3 - BYE Rd 17 - August 10 vs Rosedale (H) Rd 18 - August 17 vs Glengarry (A)

YARRAM (NORTH GIPPSLAND)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Paynesville (A) Rd 2 - April 20 vs Boisale-Briag (H) Rd 3 - April 27 vs Lindenow (A) Rd 4 - May 4 - BYE Rd 5 - May 11 vs Wy Yung (H) Rd 6 - May 18 vs Lucknown (H) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Lakes Entrance (A) Rd 8 - June 1 vs OSR (H)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Rosedale (H) Rd 2 - April 20 vs Glengarry (A) Rd 3 - April 27 vs Churchill (H) Rd 4 - May 4 vs Yarram (A)

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Churchill (H) Rd 2 - April 20 - BYE

Rd 1 - April 13 vs Glengarry (H) Rd 2 - April 20 vs Churchill (A) Rd 3 - April 27 vs Yarram (H) Rd 4 - May 4 - BYE Rd 5 - May 11 vs Heyfield (A) Rd 6 - May 18 vs TTU (H) Rd 7 - May 25 vs Sale City (A) Rd 8 - June 1 vs YYN (H) Rd 9 - June 15 vs Cowwarr (A) Rd 10 - June 22 vs Woodside (H) Rd 11 - June 29 vs Rosedale (A) Rd 12 - July 6 vs Glengarry (A) Rd 13 - July 13 vs Churchill (H) Rd 14 - July 20 vs Yarram (A) Rd 15 - July 27 - BYE Rd 16 - August 3 vs Heyfield (H) Rd 17 - August 10 vs TTU (A) Rd 18 - August 17 vs Sale City (H)

Good Luck To all clubs

Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 – Page 21

Sport

www.gippslandtimes.com.au

Greenwood second at Nyora Dean Thompson

LOCAL racers descended on Nyora Raceway for Christmas.

Nyora brought in the festive season with a bang on Saturday, December 23 with American Sprintcar ace Chase Randall, Santa Claus, fireworks, and outstanding Gippsland competition sedans giving fans plenty to smile about.

Chase Randall showed fans his skills on the tight and tricky Nyora Raceway bullring, winning the Battle at the Bullring feature event. Other winners included Kacey Ingram in Standard Saloons, Ally Morrison in Ladies Standard Saloons, Hunter Carey in Junior Standard Saloons, Xander Baxter in Junior 1200cc Sedans, and Cameron Dike in Sports Sedans.

Each Sprintcar competitor had the opportunity to compete in two heat races before starting the feature event from where they qualified.

Bacchus Marsh racer Steven Horton and Randall shared victory in Round 1, while in Round 2, Randall and Sale's Adam Greenwood were victorious. After a track preparation at interval, teams had to take some calculated estimations as to the set-ups of their cars and it proved to be vitally important to be in the top five qualifiers at the start of the final.

At a quick pace and green to chequered non-stop, the Sprintcars flew around Nyora with the leaders passing through some of the traffic late in the race. Randall got out to a large advantage before Greenwood reeled him in lap after lap to finish in second right there with Randall at the end. Nigel Laity, the class state champion, finished third with Steve Horton and Koby Noonan rounding out the top five.

Sports Sedans were able to get a hit out on track before their big feature coming up on January 13.

Some of the drivers were having the run to check out their cars before heading to Queensland for some major racing to start off the new year.

Dike and Scott Angus looked the strongest in the field after heat races while Pakenham’s Damien Miller had drama’s during heat racing including a Heat 1 crash into the turn three and four wall whilst

leading. Dike took a win in Heat 1 and Angus in Heat 2 before Dike again won the third heat race.

Dike assumed control of the race lead in the final with Angus behind him.

Miller made his way forward quickly and got into a battle with John Dike. Miller and Dike tangled on the front straight and according to stewards from what they saw, Dike went flying across the infield which meant a penalty needed to be dished out.

Miller received that penalty and race exclusion.

At the end of 15 laps, Cameron Dike claimed the win, John Dike passed Angus and took second with Inverloch’s Braidan Webster in fourth and Ray Gould rounding out the top five.

Kacey Ingram from Warragul was the star in Standard Saloon competition.

While Andrew Miles and Harry Cecil were in among the action throughout the qualifying racing, it was Ingram’s night. Miles won Heat 1 of six with Jack Braz the winner in the next. Ingram and Mark Miles won races in Round 2 with Ingram and Poowong’s Harry Cecil winners in Round 3.

In the feature event, despite the heavy pressure from Andrew Miles who had won the recent Stephen Douglas 44 Memorial, Ingram was able to maintain his position at the front of the field to

go on and win from Miles, Harry Cecil, Catani's Mark Miles and Owen Cecil.

The Ladies Standard Saloon action across three heats saw terrific battles between Ally Morrison, Bronwyn Miles, Bree Walker, and Caroline Allen in particular.

Morrison took out a win in the first qualifier, with Walker winning the next two and earning a pole position feature race start.

Walker started the race at the front with Miles, before Miles took the race lead.

Morrison moved herself into second after getting past Walker, and in the closing stages of the race the pressure was on Miles with Morrison right behind. A wobble coming out of turn four for Miles was all Morrison needed as she ripped past and into the lead and went onto eventual victory. Walker finished third with Allen and Michelle George rounding out the top five.

Junior competitors in the Victorian Speedway Council 1200cc class had a strong showing of 13 drivers, with Victorian champion Bryce Leek winning all three of the qualifying heat races despite challenges from Riley Taylor, the Victoria three ranked racer, and Xander Baxter, the Number 2 ranked driver.

Scoreboard Sale Golf Club

Rosedale Speedway will host a meeting on Australian Day.

Photo: File

Cricket is back on strike for 2024

mes • The Gippsland Times • The Gippsland Times • Th and Times • The Gippsland Times • The Gippsland Ti MOST regular home-and-away fixtures resume this a Saturday in the Sale-Maffra Cricket Association. mes • The Gippsland Times • The Gippsland Times • Th First grade, second grade and third grade will m and Times • The Gippsland Times • The Gippsland Ti get into the 2024 component of the 2023/24 season, a mes • The Gippsland Times • The Gippsland Times • each playing one day matches. m and Times • The Gippsland Times • The Gippsland TTii Fourth grade recommences Saturday, January 13, a mes • The Gippsland Times • The Gippsland Times • Th m T with the competition now split into two divisions. and an a d Ti Time mess • Th The e Gi Gipp ppsl slan land d Ti Time mess • Th The e Gi Gipp ppsl slan land d Ti Boisdale-Briagolong, Longford, Maffra, Collegians and both Bundalaguah fourth grade teams (Bulls mes • The Gipps m p land d Times • The Gipps p land d Times • TTh h and Yaks) are in the first division, leaving Stratford, and an a d Ti Time mess • Th me The e Gi Gipp ppsl pp slan sl and an d Ti Time mess • Th me The e Gi Gipp ppsl pp slan sl and an d Ti Ti Heyfield, Nambrok, Wurruk, Rosedale-Kilmany mes • The Gip ipps psla ps land and nd Tim imes es • Th he Gip Gip ipps psla land nd Tim imes es • Th Th and Sale in the other. and an a d Ti Time mess • Th The Gi G pp Gip p sla ppsl s an a d Ti and Tm Tim mes me es • Th The he Gi Gipp ppsl slan and d Ti Ti The men's midweek twenty20 semi-final is mes • The Gippsland m sland Times Times • TThe he Gippsland Gippsla Times • Th T scheduled for Tuesday, January 16.

Stratford takes on Sale and Boisdale-Briagolong plays Rosedale-Kilmany in a bid to reach the final.

The semis were postponed last month due to inclement weather.

74 Macalister Street, Sale The women's midweek T20 competition is also playing on the same day, and has four rounds to go before finals.

Editorial/News Collegians, Longford, Bundalaguah and RosedaleTel: (03) 5143 9345 Kilmany are the current top-four sides, and look news@gippslandtimes.com.au to already have one foot in finals as they are all at least three games clear of their nearest challenger.

Display Advertising Junior cricket is still off for a while, and will Tel: (03) 5143 9309 resume once school holidays are over. advertising@gippslandtimes.com.au Return date for all junior grades is Saturday, February 3.

Want to know more? ?

Accounts/Classifieds Tel: (03) 5143 9333 classifieds@gippslandtimes.com.au

Monday to Friday

9am-5pm

Sale-Maffra cricketers Olivia Speairs, Madison Winter and Gemma Bruce represented Gippsland in the Cricket Victoria’s U/15 Female Country Cup (previously Youth Premier League) in Albury over the New Year break.

Gippsland qualified for the final, which will be held at Junction Oval on this Sunday (January Photo: Contributed 7).

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY THESE PARTICIPATING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Sudoku No. 0191

DISPLAY ADVERTISING DEADLINES Tuesday Issue: Booking/Copy - 10am Thursday prior.

Friday Issue: Booking/Copy - 10am Tuesday prior.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING DEADLINES Tuesday Issue: Friday Issue:

9.30am Monday prior 9.30am Thursday prior

PRIME CONTACTS General Manager: Editor: Advertising Manager:

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Published by Bruce Ellen, 74 Macalister Street, Sale for Southern Newspapers Pty Ltd, Regional Publishers (Victoria) Pty Ltd ACN 007215287 and printed by Latrobe Valley Express Partnership, 21 George Street, Morwell. Print Post registration 34351300005.

Page 22 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

Monday, December 18 2023 - Men's Stableford: A Grade: R McKenzie 39, runnerup: R Thanabal 35. DTL: J Hargreaves 34, S McDonald 34, G King 32, A Cashman 32, K McDonald 32, C Turner 31, M Schaper 31.

Wednesday, December 20 - Men's Stableford: A Grade: R Nicholas 40, runnerup: D Adamson 39. B Grade: A Chaffey 39, runner-up: D Fitzgibbon 37. DTL: T Graham 38, N Maxfield 37, R Walker 37, S McDonald 37, C Purry 36, T Hickling 36, P Thanabal 36, T Johnson 36, D Gaskill 36, P Jellis 36.

NTP: 3rd R Walker, 6th T Johnson, 11th R Donaldson, 14th R Donaldson.

Saturday, December 23 - Men's Stableford: A Grade: H Silby 40, runner-up: J Tatterson 39. B Grade: F McDonald 39, runner-up: J Bailey 38. C Grade: R Smalley 42, runner-up: C Freshwater 40. DTL: J Pollard 38, A Schuback 38, P Jellis 36, P John 36, H Holmes 36, E Dowsett 36, A Chaffey 36. NTP: 3rd A Schuback, 6th A Chaffey, 11th B Tatterson, 14th R Smalley.

Women's comp: K Manze 35. NTP: 3rd K Manze, 11th T Potter.

Saturday, December 30 - Men's 9-Hole Stableford: A Grade: R Stephenson 20, runner-up: M Hurst 19. DTL: S Harrap 19, P Ray 18, C Purry 17, B Jarred 17, N Kline 17.

Sale Bridge Club

OFFICE HOURS Sale:

In the feature event, Leek led the field early with Taylor quickly moving through the field from the third row and into the mix. Late in the race, Baxter, who had been on the tail of Leek all the way, made a move to the lead of the race and Leek could not recover in the remaining laps. Baxter went to the line ahead of Leek, Taylor, Andrew Mitchell and Dayne Murdoch.

Rounding out all the action was the Junior Standard Saloon racing with three different winners across the heats.

Hunter Carey from Melbourne’s Southeast won the first heat race. River Paterson was second and Cooper Joynson from Bunyip third. Starting from pole position, Carey jumped to the lead with Chase Ingram giving him some hurry up. Paterson took position in third with Joynson hanging on for the ride behind.

Over 15 laps, Carey maintained his small margin in front of Ingram and at the finish line, Carey took victory over Ingram, Paterson, Joynson and Ella Sheedy.

Speedway action comes to the area on Australia Day, with Rosedale Speedway to host.

Rosedale Speedway is located on the corner of Evergreen and Rosedale-Stradbroke Roads, Rosedale.

Crossword No. 8567 L L A M A P R E F E R E E S T E R I R E D A W N S D O G S A P S T E N E M E N T R D E P O T N I L E E U S E R P S I E G E S B S B A R E D E S I S O B A R S P A L E T A R A B P O R E D A P R O D I G A L G B A A N I L P I P E R L I T S L E E T N E M E R G E R E A D Y

Thursday, December 7 2023 - 1. D Bennett + D D’arcy 2.W Cummings + W Smits 3. R Gault + C Forcadela Monday, December, 11 - N/ S 1.R Graham + G Lohr 2. D Love + M Castle 3.

C Holman + J Sherrin E/W 1.D + V Braham 2. F Sunderman + R Ziffer 3. D Lawton + D Bennett Wednesday, December 13 - 1.R + H Gault 2. C Van Lier + J Page 3.D Love + M Castle

s n o i t u l So

Target Time No. 0191

acne, aconite, actin, action, aeon, AFFECTION, ante, anti, antic, atone, atonic, cane, canoe, cant, canto, cation, cent, cento, cetin, cine, coffin, coin, cone, coni, conte, cotan, enact, etna, fain, faint, fane, feint, fiance, fine, fino, font, icon, infect, info, into, naif, neat, nice, nite, noetic, note, notice, oaten, ocean, octane, often, once, ontic, tine, tinea, tone, tonic.

Target: Average - 30, Good - 36, Excellent - 44+

Sport

www.gippslandtimes.com.au

Sale Turf Club starts festive season in style Liam Durkin

Drill Sergeant put in a strong performance to win the Sale Cup.

Photo: Contributed

Racing rings in the new year Liam Durkin

as “one of the more even cup fields seen in Sale.”

Jumping from Box 6 in Race 10, Drill Sergeant took the lead and hardly looked back, although he did have to stave off the Michelle Malia-trained Stomping, who kept touch until fading late to finish fourth.

With 200 metres to run, Drill Sergeant found some space on the inside and was able to cross in a time of 36.65, holding on in a tight finish from Untapped and Home Brew.

Home Brew appeared the greatest challenge in the last 50 metres, while Untapped put in a mighty effort, coming from well wide at the final turn to run a close second.

The trifecta reflected racing odds, with Drill Sergeant paying $3.10 a place with TAB, along with Untapped ($3.00) and Home Brew ($1.80).

Nambrok trainer Lyn Smith carried local hopes,

DRILL Sergeant continued its recent affinity with Sale Greyhound Club, winning the 2023 Sale Cup. The three-year-old backed-up its performance at Sale on December 12, taking the feature race over the same 640-metre distance.

In a first for Sale Greyhound Club, the Sale Cup was held on New Year’s Eve. The cup is ordinarily held on Boxing Day, however, severe flooding forced a reschedule.

For veteran trainer Shane Drummond, the win was a perfect way to ring in the new year.

Drill Sergeant was the Heathcote trainers first runner in a Group 1 final in his 25 years in the sport.

His dog led virtually from start to finish against seven other competitors, in what was described

and her three-year-old dog Zinzan Chopper put in a commendable run to finish fifth.

Zinzan Chopper had been in very good form, placing in its last five races.

All eight trainers took a share in the $165,500 prize purse, with the winner fetching $100,000.

Sale Cup day featured 12 races, the majority of which were won by locals.

Lyn Smith won Race 7, and was joined by trainers from across the region to taste success.

Other winners were: Rosedale’s Sharon-Lee Chignell in Race 1, Brian Alford (Yarram, Race 3), Jenny Gieschen (Valencia Creek, Race 4), Bianca Clark (Briagolong, Race 5), Des Douch (Maffra, Race 6), Jeff Chignell (Rosedale, Race 8), Ricky Lane (Traralgon, Race 11) and Chris Tilley (Sale, Race 12).

Racing continues at Sale tomorrow (January 3).

Big test after big break for the Bulls From Page 24

Both of these teams are among a handful jostling for spots in the bottom half of the top four, and will more than likely need to grab points off each other to help their cause.

The Saints put together a huge total near 250 last round, and signs could be pointing to a team that has found their feet.

South African recruit Kev Renecke is proving to be worth the preseason hype, with runs in every game he has played. Quite amazingly, his lowest score for the season is 37.

Rosedale-Kilmany recruit Drew Olden may not have the same sort of numbers, but he has been equally effective for the Warriors after crossing from Lucknow.

Olden has picked up wickets in every game, and showed his worth with the stick, scoring a couple of 40s.

which washed out all cricket, adding to the usual three-week break over Christmas.

This is bound to have some impact, although an element working in Bundalaguah’s favour might be depth.

Toby O’Reilly carried a magic wand in the shape of a cricket bat late last year, peeling off a mountain of runs in second grade, while regular first grader Gayashan Munasinghe also found touch after asking to head down for a hit.

O’Reilly had a golden three week run where he made scores of 53, 106 and 216, and is surely in line for a recall at some stage.

ROSEDALE-KILMANY is up against their hyphenated counterparts.

The Warriors have a travelling BoisdaleBriagolong to deal with, in a game that could have ramifications when finals positions are sorted.

BUNDALAGUAH faces a litmus test as SaleMaffra cricket resumes on Saturday.

The Bulls are hosting Yarram, who have enjoyed a dream start in their inaugural SMCA season.

While the first half of the season was stop-start due to washouts, that does not detract from the fact the Pelicans are yet to drop a game.

With big-hitter Anthony Scott opening the batting, the new kids on the block have not put a foot wrong so far.

Bundalaguah for their worth have been equally impressive, dropping just the one game to reigning premier Collegians, which in itself was only by three runs.

However, the Bulls will enter this Saturday having not played for six whole weeks.

A last-round bye came after a fortnight of rain

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RACEGOERS celebrated the festive season with a Christmas meeting at Sale Turf Club.

Greenwattle hosted a seven-card meeting on Saturday, December 23.

With Christmas falling on the Monday, attendees were able to enjoy premier local racing to start the holiday period.

Perfect conditions saw the track rated a Good 4 from start to finish.

While the festive season is usually the time to unwind, it was business as usual for trainers and jockeys, and a number of prominent names came to Sale for the occasion.

Peter Moody took two horses to Sale, both placing, while local trainers Paul Worthington and Bill Wood also enjoyed success.

Worthington won the Race 2 EGAP Security Maiden Plate, with Night Eruption crossing first in a dramatic finish.

The six-year-old mare came from seventh at the 400m mark to win by a head in front of Yes Sir Icanboogie.

Trafalgar jockey Jason Maskiell rode the win, holding off Brian Higgins steering Yes Sir Icanboogie as it closed late.

Those who backed Night Eruption were given an early Christmas present, as it was paying close to $50 with some bookmakers.

Moody came second by some distance in the race beforehand - the Race 1 Eustace Landscaping Maiden Plate (1100m).

His three-year-old gelding Birks faded in the last 400m to lose by over a length to Meg’s Magic, trained by Philip Stokes at Cranbourne.

While Birks has been in exceptional form, placing in its last six starts, a slight name change could see it elevated to another level.

Moody bounced back in the Race 3 Dyson Bus Services Maiden Plate (1717m), with Madenyo - a runaway winner.

The three-year-old filly hardly let up, leading from 400m to waltz in by two lengths.

In the Race 4 Preston Rowe Paterson 0-58 Handicap (1717m), Gimme A Buzz made a miraculous recovery.

The five-year-old gelding missed the gate, literally walking out, to trail the field by several lengths in the early stages.

With 400m to go, Gimme A Buzz was still dead last, before storming on the outside to give itself a look.

Showing true Boolarra grit for the Tim Hughes stable, Gimme A Buzz powered to the line to win by a length from Kentahten.

Race caller Adam Olszanski succinctly described the win as “massive” in what was Gimme A Buzz’s fourth career win.

Traralgon Cup 2023 runner Stark Raving won the Race 5 Maffra Poly & Pumps Handicap (2200m).

The five-year-old gelding got home on the inside for Cranbourne’s Simone Walker, winning by just under a length from Dubai Moon.

In the Race 6 Bennetts Electrical Handicap (1400m), Benalla trainer Paul Kramer tasted victory after Darra Linen strode in by a length from Crafty Effort.

The meeting rounded off with six-year-old gelding Magic Drum winning the Race 7 Ladbroke It! Handicap (1100m).

Bairnsdale’s Kasey Wilson was able to leave Sale with a win, getting the better of hometown boy Bill Wood, whose eight-year-old gelding I’m Cheeky came second.

Sale Turf Club’s next meeting is the Kids Day Out meeting on Sunday, January 14.

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Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 – Page 23

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THE DRILL Drill Sergeant took out the 2023 Sale Cup, giving veteran trainer Shane Drummond his first Group 1 final winner after 25 years in the sport.

In an historic meeting, Sale Greyhound Racing Club held its marquee event on New Year’s Eve for the very first time.

STORY - PAGE 23

Photo: Contributed

One dayers to start in second half of the season Liam Durkin

SALE-BASED cricket lovers will have to drive if they want to see first grade action this weekend.

The second half of the Sale-Maffra Cricket Association season gets underway this Saturday, with one day games scheduled for Round 9.

In a fixture quirk brought about by the introduction of Yarram District this season creating a bye, three clubs will get to extend their three-week Christmas break.

Teams with the bye this weekend are all from Sale: Collegians, Longford and Sale Cricket Clubs.

The bye perhaps comes at an ideal time for Collegians, who have Nathan Whitford and Zac Hurley on duty with Victoria Country.

Stratford however is not so fortunate with Vic Country commitments meaning it will enter the round without skipper Jack Rietschel.

The Redbacks travel to Maffra, and despite the absence of the gun allrounder, will start favourites against the Eagles.

Maffra will be hoping the new year brings about a new team, as the one before Christmas won just a single match, which came way back in Round 2.

By the time Saturday rolls around, it will be 84 days since the Eagles last tasted victory.

Given the Christmas festivities often mean local cricketers don’t give training much, if any, consideration, Maffra might be helped by the fact their opposition are probably going to be just as short on practice as them.

With this in mind, and with Stratford holding finals aspirations, it looms as very much a ‘get through’ game as far as the Redbacks are concerned.

The visitors will be calling on the likes of Jack Tatterson, Bohdi Walker and the returning Cormac Hassett to ensure there is no middle order collapse.

Page 24 – Times-Spectator, Tuesday, 2 January, 2024

Hassett got a couple of hits in before the break, and Stratford officials will be hoping he is able to play the anchor role he became known for in previous years.

Given Rietschel’s absence, the Redbacks will need to find eight overs from somewhere, which may need to be divided up between a few people.

Ethan Albrecht and Sam Anstee could be called upon to bowl more overs, each turning the ball in opposite directions.

The right arm off breaks of Albrecht may be used to bowl time, while Anstee probably offers a greater wicket-taking option with his leg breaks.

While Anstee turns the ball in the same direction as Rietschel, he does so from a completely different angle by virtue of the fact Rietschel bowls left arm orthodox.

As it would be rare for a right arm leg spinner to come around the wicket to a right hander in a

one dayer, Maffra could enter with the mentality of only needing to defeat Anstee from one side.

Lee Hopkins managed to get himself a score of 36 in the last game before Christmas, which could signal the start of a personal revival.

Like most in the Eagles camp, Hopkins was one of many who found runs hard to come by in the first half of the season.

Josh Rurawhe was another, although he too scored 38 in the same game before the break.

Those efforts against a Sale attack, arguably the strongest in the competition, should give Maffra some confidence.

There is also likely to be some friendly fire, with former Stratford players Seb Pendergast and Lachie Dowd (also a former Stratford CC President) now playing for Maffra.

Continued - Page 23