Latrobe Valley Express Monday 30 December 2024

Powerless Pesutto

The stateLiberals gave SillySeasona newmeaning, afterTraralgon local John Pesutto wasrolled in Friday’sleadership spill. The Liberals have nowhad four changes of leader in the last three yearsalone.

By LIAM DURKIN

THERE wasn’t much to be merry about in the state Liberal party room this Christmas.

Another horse was added to the leadership merry-go-round last Friday (December 27), after Traralgon-born John Pesutto was ousted as party leader

Mr Pesutto was defeated 23-4 in aleadership spill to Shadow Police Minister, Brad Battin.

The spill was brought forward from next month’s specialmeeting to try and resolve mounting tension within the party room in the wake of Mr Pesutto’s federal court loss to Liberal colleague Moira Deeming.

The federal court ruled Mr Pesutto had defamed Ms Deeming aftershe attended a‘Let Women Speak’ rally in March 2023 that was gate crashed by neo-Nazis. He has been forced to pay $300,000 in damages.

As Liberal leader, Mr PesuttoexpelledMs Deeming from the party room before and while the defamation trial was ongoing, and then used his casting vote to do so again when Liberal MPs were deadlocked over the decision to readmit the outspoken MP.

Aclearly dejected Mr Pesutto played astraight bat to the waiting media throng in the wake of his defeat.

“I congratulate Brad Battin, we’ve known each other along time and I’ll do whatever Ican to support him,” he said.

Mr Battin will be joined by former professional tennis player and Nepean MP Sam Groth as deputy.

Mr Groth hassome connection to Traralgon, competing in anumberofATP events at the Traralgon Tennis Association during his career.

Appropriately running with the slogan #readytoserve during his campaigns, Mr Grothhad resignedfromthe frontbenchfollowingthe federal court’s decisionagainst Mr Pesuttoa fortnight earlier.

Mr Groth said he could not “in good conscience, no longer continue to serve” in his role.

As they say, aweek is alongtime in politics, and such notions were hardto escape for Mr Pesutto, who just last month was being touted as the possibl ef utu Premierafter aResolve poll indicated he had aslight leado incumbent Jacinta Allan.

With this turn of events, the Liberals may have inadvertently handed Labor the biggest Christmas present imaginable.

Leader of the House and Minister for Heathand AmbulanceServices, Mary-Anne Thomas did not mince words, hitting out at the Opposition’s infighting, as well as lashing the new leader.

“Today was aday when the Liberals should have been focused on anyone but themselves, with the state facing its worstbushfire threat in years,” she said.

“But instead, the Liberals were in Parliament fighting about their fourth leader in four years.

“The messagethey have sent is clear. Liberals don’t care about Victorians in their time of need, they only care about their internal politics in their hour of chaos.

“And if they get their hands on power,they’ll only care about cuts,cuts, cuts.Because that’s what they believe in.

“It’s the same incompetent and divided Liberal Party, but with aleader who will take them in an even more extreme direction.

“Brad Battin is the mostextreme Liberal leader in history.

“He has put together aright-wing leadership team that doesn’t include asingle woman.

“His hard-rightpoliticswillmakelifeharder for migrants, renters, women and workers.”

Mr Battin was asmall businessowner(owninga Bakers Delight franchise) before entering politics, and saidthis experience, as wellashis timespent as apoliceofficer,would allow him to relatetothe needs of everyday Victorians.

“I’ve lived in the outer suburbs, raised my family there,and workedasboth an employer and an employee. Theseexperienceshave led me to the Liberal Partyand have driven my commitment to change,” he said.

“Politics is about choices, and we believe in smaller government, supporting small businesses, and ensuring equal opportunities for all Victorians.

“We will focusonproviding relieftofamilies strugglingwith the cost of living, fixing the broken health system, and making our communities safe again.

“Thisisamoment for action, not just words. I am determined to lead with purpose, and over the next 100weeks we will put forward policies that will allow us to rebuild this state.”

Coincidently, if Mr Battin and federal Liberal leader PeterDutton win their respective elections overthe nexttwo years, it will mean Australia and Victoria will have two former police officers in power.

The country is expected to go to the polls next May, while Victorians will choose government in Continued Page 29

Local pizzashop goes up in smoke

EARLY on Christmas Eve morning, emergency services were called to the Traralgon Pizza& Pasta shop on Hazelwood Road and Banks Street.

The structure caught fire around 6.30am,and aStayInformed warning was later placed on the VicEmergency app warning residents and people nearby that smoke would be visible from areas in close proximity.

According to aVictoriaPolice spokesperson, the fire was marked not suspiciousand that thankfully the premise was empty at the time of the fire.

Prior to the incident, the owners had taken to Facebook letting customers know that they would be closed throughout the Christmas period.

The fish and chip shop (Hazelbank Fish Shop &Chinese Take Away) next door also sustained some damage.

The adjourning pathology collection centre sustained no damage and expect to be trading normally. On the Traralgon community Facebook page, users expressed their condolences for the business and hope that everyone was safe.

Christmas

Speedyincident

A19-year-old male driver from Stratford was caught by the Latrobe HighwayPatrol doing 164km in a100km zone on the Princes Highway, Flynn on December 20.

The driver has had his vehicle impounded for 30 days at acost of $950 and will appear at court for dangerous driving and driving at excessive speeds. Victoria Police are reminding people that police willbetargetingspeeding drivers throughout Operation Roadwise -not onlydangerousdrivers who excessively speed, but also those who think it’s acceptable to speed at low to mid-range.

Old cinema fire

EARLY on December 22, Fire RescueVictoria was called out to respond to astructure fire at the

Twin Village cinemaonBuckley Street, Morwell.

Firefighters arrived on scene within minutes to find fire at the southern end of the building.

FRV and CFA crewswore breathing apparatus and gained access to the rear of the premises after reports an occupant was inside.

One person was retrieved and handedto Ambulance Victoria for further treatmentof smoke inhalation.

The fire had spread to the roof space, and crews attempted to makeaccess by removingpart of theroof.

An aerial appliance was usedtohelp tackle the blaze.

The scene was deemed under control at 8am.

Information wanted

AROUND 8.54am and 9.54am on November 8, a2003silver/grey ToyotaEchowith Victorian registration WCV451, was broken intowhile parked behind Gate 1atLakeNarracan.

The person who reported the vehicle was borrowing the vehicle from afriend at the time.

The drivers side window was found smashed and the person who reported it is unsure if arock was used or not, but some were foundplaced around the vehicle.

Thevehicle contained one Amazon basic black camera bag containing awhite Sony cyber-shot camera with lens, one extra Sony zoomlens and two Sony camera batteries along with ared Samsung A20 mobile phone inside aclear case.

TheIMEI number is unknown at this stage.

Thescreensaver on the phone has achild with atoy monkey and apicture of the person who reported the vehicle and their wife inside the clear case. Theowner of the vehicle also had theirgreycamera bag stolen, which contained ablack 50mm Canon lens and Canonblack with orange plastic cover camera battery.

Thosewho have more information are urged to contact the Moe Police Station or report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Public transport fares increase

NEW year, new publictransportprice hikes, but also aday of free travel.

The stategovernmenthas confirmed that from January 1, 2025, the cost of adaily fare anywhere across the Victorian network will be capped at $11 or $5.50 for adaily concession-an increase of 40 cents and 20 cents respectively.

On aweekend or public holiday, daily and concession fares will be capped at $7.60 and $3.80.

The government saidpublic transport fees cover less than one third of the operating cost of Victoria’s public transport system -and the regional fare cap will continue, allowing passengers to travelanywhere across the state for the same price as adaily metropolitan fare.

On NewYear's Eve, public transportacross the state will be free, includingmetro and regional trains, buses and trams. Free travel begins from 6pm on December 31. V/Line long distance passengers on services that arrive in Melbourne after6pm will also enjoy free travel. There will be extra services to operate and free traveluntil 6am on New Year’sDay. For V/Line passengers, the first service from Melbourne to all regional destinations on New Year’s Day will also be free, regardless of whether it departs before or after 6am.

V/Line passengers on reserved services still need to book their New Year’s Eve travel, and will be issued aticketfree of charge. No ticket is required for regional bus travel.

This NewYearsEve, all CityLoop stations will operate until 3am to provide more options and to minimise crowding at Flinders Street and Southern Cross stations.

Free travel was also available on Christmas Day.

For information and to plan your journey,visit ptv.vic.gov.au or the PTV mobile app.

 PASSENGERS travelling on the V/Line network this summer are encouraged to

plan ahead and familiarise themselves with extreme heat timetables, to provide more certainty for their journeys.

V/Line Executive Director Operations, Rochelle Reynolds said there was extraprecautions in placeondays forecast to be above 36 degrees, to ensure passengers and staff were safe while travelling on the network.

“Safety is our top priority and on those really hot days,steel tracks can expand in the heat which is why trains may run at slower speeds, or be replaced by coaches when necessary,” she said

“Passengers canplan their tripwith confidence using extreme heat timetables on those really hot days, when temperatures reach 36 degrees and above.

“Information about these timetables can be accessed on the V/Line website, or passengers can speak with our staff for information.”

It’s commonplace around the world for trains to slow down for safetyprecaution on days of extreme heat.

Slowing trains reduces dynamic forces that can initiate amisalignment on hot days.

V/Line closely monitors weather conditions during the warmer months to determine when extreme heat timetables will be activated. On extreme heat days, extra crews will be on standbytomanage any issues andensure there are minimal disruptions to passengers as they travel.

No V/Line train, scheduled coach or replacement coach services will operate in afire district while aCatastrophic fire danger rating is in place for that district.

Passengers can download acopy of the extreme heat timetablefor theircorridor at vline.com.au

On days when extreme temperatures are forecast, passengers are encouraged to visit the V/Line website, app and X(Twitter) feed. Passengerscan also speak with staff for information.

Fire Danger Period in effect

FIRE restrictions are now in placeacross Victoria.

While CFA is ready to respond and support communities this bushfire season, they’re urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said it was important to plan ahead of what is expected to be ahot Christmas period.

“We are already seeing in parts of the state if fires break out, they're likely to burn intensely this summer period,” he said.

“We can’t get afire truck into every driveway so we are asking Victorians to know their fire risk, plan ahead and make sure we are doing our part to keep each other safe.

“Monitor fire danger ratings daily via the VicEmergency App and CFA website and know what your plan is should afire event arise.”

Fire DangerPeriod information: Awritten permit is required to burnoff grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP.

You can apply for apermit at firepermits.vic. gov.au

It can also be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District Office. Lighting fires in the open without apermit can

bring apenalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.

For afull list of conditions, visit www.cfa.vic gov.au/can

Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farms

More information about FDPs is available online at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerperiod

To find out what you can and can’tdoduring FDP,visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can

Police Beat with Katrina Brandon

Damage: Doorsappeared kickedinatthe old Twin Village cinema in Morwell. Photograph: Liam Durkin

Damages: Fire Rescuepaid an early visit to the HazelwoodRoad incident, where the Pizza & Pastashop hadcaught on fire

Fire: Crewsonthe sceneearly on

Eveatthe Hazelwood Road Pizza&Pastashop in Traralgon. Photographs: Katrina Brandon

Be prepared: Victoriaisbracing foranother hot holidayperiod. Photograph supplied

Be safearound roaming dogs

By AIDAN KNIGHT

AMORWELL resident is urging locals to secure their pets, after multiple instances of being menacedand laterattackedbya roaming dog near Princess Drive.

The incidents occurred on Comans Street Morwell, leavingboth the senior resident and his own dog injured and shaken.

The first encounter in early December saw the manapproached by an aggressive, collarless grey staffy while walking his dog on aleash. The pair managedtoevade the roaming dog without harm butweren’tsolucky on their second meeting.

On Tuesday,December 10 they were again confronted by the same dog,suggesting it comes from aresidence within the vicinity. The man statedthat he wasknockedtothe ground by thestaffyaftertrying to kick it awayfrom harming his own dog, hurting his back on the footpath. The man also recounted the unattended dog attacked his own pet, saying “it grabbed it by the chest and started throwing it around.”

Police later attended the scene but wereunable to locate the roaming animal.

The damage to the man’s dog has totalled a hefty $1720 in vet bills, and he himself had to seek medicalattention after hitting the ground. The resident is not seeking financial reimbursement, simply imploring other people to secure their dogs, and keep acollar on them.

“Next timeitcould be achild,and they wouldn’t have achanceagainstit. There's a lot of young children that walk their dogs here in the morning and in the afternoon around here, and I’m worried about that," the man said.

Council has the authority to declare adog as menacing under section41A of the Domestic Animals Act 1994.

The Act grants council the authoritytodeclare a dog as menacing if it rushes at or chases aperson or animal, or causes anon-serious bite injury. A menacing dog declaration can escalate to adangerous dog declaration if the animal continues to pose athreat or if its owner fails to comply with regulations. Owners of roaming dogs may also face fines.

For more information, visit: https:// www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Home/ Animals_and_Pets

“Everyone should be able to walk on their own street without fear of being harmed."

Residents are reminded thatLatrobe City

Business fromthe otherend

AMID abusy press day at the Latrobe Valley Express on Monday, December 16 rose an office emergency of unprecedented porcelain.

Amember of the editorial team, who wishes to remain anonymous, found himself in deep trouble, when what was meanttobea quick bathroom break escalated to arescue operation.

The incident began innocently enough, when the unnamed reporter (whose namemay or may notrhyme with Flake Wetcalf-Colt) took abreak from the keyboard drudgery to “flush out afew ideas” on an upcoming story, only for the lock to seize when he tried to return to his desk.

After repeated attempts to unscrew the door from its hinges with aballpoint pen, and using some hard-hitting questions as abattering ram, the reporter began to panic and decided to phone acolleague via his Apple Watch to confess his predicament.

Sources closetothe Expressrevealed the door was jammed.Employees triedfromthe outside, but the lock was described as "tighter than our Monday deadline afterthe office Christmas party".

After much effort from both sides of the door, Express GM Barbara Seymour made inquires withbothCFA and local locksmiths as to which couldarrivesooner, as the intrepid journo's

distress levels rose from lack of oxygen.

The combination of excess carbon dioxide in theroom andnowindow were starting to get to him, with no way out unless he smashed out the skylight in the roof and be retrieved via helicopter.

Fire Rescue Victoria arrivedatthe George Street office at 10:21am, and the Express reporter was thankfulthey didn’t uselights and sirens as they ascended the stairs like a Marine squad on their3rd tour of Afghanistan.

“They were in such ahurry Iactually thought they were busting for the toilet themselves”, says layout artist Chris Meall.

It took five firies, an axe and apairofpliers to free our imprisoned journalist, who emerged embarrassed, and with alengthy beard.

“NowI know how Julian Assangefelt,”he opened up after all the commotion had settled.

“I thought maybe the door hadjust expanded alittle duetothe heat but turns out the lock was more temperamental thanalocal MP being questioned after aleadership spill.”

The Latrobe ValleyExpress wouldlike to clarify that the journalist in question is now safely back at his deskwherehebelongs, but is banned from using any restrooms within the building.

New and improved council rate cap across the state

COUNCIL rate increases will again be capped at the forecast Consumer Price Index for next year, continuingthe stategovernment’s drive to reduce pressures on household budgets.

Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos has announced the rate cap of three per cent for the next financialyear under the stategovernment’s Fair Go Rates System.

The government accepted the recommendation of the Essential Services Commission regarding the cap, which is equal to the forecast Consumer Price Index for 2025/26.

The rate cap limitsthe amount all Victorian councils can increase their total revenue from general rates and municipal charges.

Rates are set by each localcouncil to fund services and facilities like local parks, libraries, community centres, roads and footpaths, kindergartens and sporting facilities.

This year’s rate cap aims to ease cost of living

pressures for Victorian families, while still allowing councils to continue providing these services to people.

In the decade before the introduction of the state government’s Fair Go Rates system in 2016, council rates were increasing by an average of six per cent each year.

Since the introduction of the cap, the average rate cap between 2016-17 and 2024-25 is 2.3 per cent, limiting steep successive increases for Victorian rate payers.

Councils may apply to the Essential Services Commission for ahigher rate cap if they can demonstrate acriticalneed for spending on services or projects that would require arate rise above the capped amount.

To lea rn more about how council rates are set, visit www.localgovernment.vic.gov. au/council-innovation-and-performance/ council-rates-and-charges.

Wear it like abadge of honour

COMMENT

BY JOHN DUCK

HEAVEN forbidJoseph Lis, "that one sided articles" from one correspondent may "undermine Australia's unity", ('Woke mind virus', Latrobe Valley Express Opinion,23/12/24)

Even worse that this correspondent'sviews may represent "thewoke mind virus of identity politics infecting institutions and far too many of our citizens."

As opposed to "high on hyperbole virus" from Joseph? Seriously, you couldn't make this stuff up!

Irecently readadefinitionof"woke mind virus", which includes the following: You read books, and don't burn them; You embrace science; You are willing to change your mind when

new information becomes available; You understand most issues aren't black and white; You believe in true equality for all people; You like to share; You embrace cooperation; You respect others 'rights'; You believe culture and the arts have value; and, You care for the planet and all of its life. So,for thosewho fear they may have been "infected by the woke mind virus", Isay wear it like abadge of honour, and be reassured that in youthere is yet hope for our planet. John Duck is aTrafalgar resident, former teacher and long-timecontributor to Latrobe Valley Express Letters to the Editor.

-Page11

Photo: istock

The year’sbiggest story

DISCUSSION at this time of year surrounding the biggest news stories fromthe last12months generally seesa shortlist of possibilities form within Latrobe Valley Express Editorial. Not so much for 2024. February's major stormwas aunanimous choice as this year's standout news story.

Thedevastation across the regionwas telling, as wasthe lasting impression it had. Photographs of transmission lines literally folded in half demonstrated the sheer force of winds. Perhaps most astonishing washow quickly it happened.

Carnage: Mirboo Nor th wasleftinruins afterFebruar y’ssuperstorm

Wild storm ends in darkness

By LIAM DURKIN (PUBLISHED 21.02.24)

IT happened in an instant.

Astorm more akin to atornado ripped through Victoria on the afternoon of Tuesday, February 13, following aday wheretemperatures topped 40 degrees in some parts.

The damage left some areas in Gippsland resembling warzones, whilewind gusts of up to 130km/h wereenough to topple transmission linesfeeding the state’s electricity.

Areas surrounding the Latrobe Valley were not spared, with trees falling, seemingly one-by one.

The storm hit Trafalgar around 4.30pm, some hours after the town hadbattledthrough not having electricity.

Further into the hills, entire buildings were torn to pieces in Thorpdale, whilethe next town along, Mirboo North, was arguably the hardest hit.

Roads in and out of town were closed as trees -and even the football goalposts at the Mirboo North Recreation Reserve -bent at right angles.

The storm had far moredevastating consequences, especiallyfor local farmers currently in themidst of the potato harvest season.

Never onestoshow too much emotion, it is understood the storm was enough to reduce some farmers to tears as they cametoterms losing acres of crops.

Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien was in Mirboo North the day after the superstorm seeing first-hand the carnage within his electorate.

Mir boo Nor th and Tho rpda le re sid ents were still without power days after the storm, described as “one of the largest outage events in the state’s history” by Energy Minister, Lily D’Ambrosio.

Generatorswere quickly sought,with one local hire businessreportedlysendingout close to 200 in amatter of days.

Across the state, around half amillion people were left without power, as AusNet became overwhelmed trying to restore customers’ electricity

Compounding the issue wascuts to communication,forcing people to find charging stations for their devices.

LoyYang Awas heavily affected, with all four units going down at 2.15pm on the day of the storm.

The plant’s operator, AGL, had two units restored by the following day. Loy Yang Asupplies around 30 per cent of the state’s power requirements.

The outage left the streets of nearbyTraralgon in virtual darkness last Tuesday night (February 13), as emergency services worked frantically to direct traffic.

Earlier in the day, abushfire in the Grampians was the prelude to what was to come.

“It all started with awarm night, the warmest night this summer,” meteorologistKevin Parkyn from the Bureau of Meteorology explained.

“Very quickly, we saw some thunderstorm activity develop early morning (Tuesday) in our western border. Those storms tracked across the landscapethrough the Wimmera down towards the south-west and those storms resulted in a fair bit of lightning, producing the fire the fire agencies are nowcombatinginand amongst the Grampians.

“Butitdidn’t stop there, we’ve seen prolific thunderstorm and lightning activity develop across the state …these storms are severe.“

It’s been hot -sizzling. We’ve seen 41.7 degrees at Walpeup, 41.4 at Hopetoun there up in the north-westofthe state, incredibly,41degrees at Avalon ahead of the wind change, the temperature dropped by about 15 degrees in 15 minutes.

“This is asignificant weather day for Victoria, prolific lightning generatingfires, the storms are severe, producingdamagingwind gusts and even reports of large hails, golf ball-sized hail.”

Justfiveminutes in the lateafternoonof February 13 was all it took to leave months of clean-up, some of whichisstill ongoingincertain parts of the Gippsland area.

Express journalists KatrinaBrandon, Erika Allen, Zaida Glibanovic and Liam Durkin were on the sceneinthe days followingthe storm,

and here, look back on what could end up being atrue 'once-in-a-lifetime' event. (It is hoped the reproduction of these stories does not evoke any trauma,but rather an opportunity to acknowledge the resilience of the Gippsland community).

Lightsout: Traralgon wasleftinnear darkness as aresult of the huge poweroutages

Mirboo Nort r h hit theworst

By KATRINA BRANDON (PUBLISHED 21.02.24)

THE storm felt like atornado, residents say. Fly-wire wasripped off andcar bonnets dented. The hail storm landedaround 5.15pm lastTuesday (February13) and the hail stones still stood firm at 1pm the following day.

Mirboo North took abeating from which it maytakea long time to recover.

In the midst of thestorm,itlifted roofs, trampolines, powerlines and trees.

From Thorpdale to as far past the Allambee turn-off, trees and powerlines crashed due to the high intensityofwinds, thatwere predicted to be at 130km/h at Yarram, which also received large amounts of damage.

Nary aroad was spared of the horrendous mess. Some said that it was straight out of a Stephen King novel.

Through the mess, Gippsland Water started to hand people slabs of water bottles at Baromi Park.

On Thursday afternoon, more updates arose with aplan for atemporary Optus tower to provide some improved coverage and asimilar

facility is being provided by NBN to deliver some internet to town.

Asatellite truck was set-up outside Jimmy Jambs Café for free Wi-Fi and as acharging stationfor residents.

Major damage also effected the school over the course of the storm,with the primary school losing their auditorium, their canteen and five classrooms. Even withthe amount of damage, theschool stayed open so that kids could still have services, and counselling if needed over the week, according to Mirboo North Primary School Assistant Principal, Melissa Neil.

“I am so thankful for the staff at the school for helping clearingpartsofthe school so students can comeand learn, technology free,” she said “Overthe last few days (February 14 and 15), Ihave been checking on local staff members and helping where Ican. It’s hard to say when things will be back to normal, but over the weekend we will regroupreadyfor Monday where we will resume face-to-face learning to those who can come in.”

Currently, awalk through town might suggest that Mirboo North may go aweek without power due to the damage.

Forceofnature: Hail, still the diameter of amarble, 20 hoursafter falling from thesky in Februar y’sstorm

Leaders showsupport

By ZAIDAGLIBANOVIC

(PUBLISHED 21.02.24)

FRIGHTENING and ferocious

were the words Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan used when describing theimpact of thestorm that ripped through Mirboo North when visiting last Friday (February 15).

Amid the Premier’s visit, she announced the joint stateand federal government’s Prolonged Power Outage Payment Plan to assist those most affected by the storm.

Households without power for seven days after the storm hit will be offered $1920 per weekfor up to three weeks, while small businesses are eligible for payments of $2927.

Those affected by the storm will have to calltheir retail powerprovider to access these payments.

“We want this payment to be processed as easily as possible for customers to be abletoaccess,” the Premier said.

“(This is) acknowledging that there are still many communities, many power customers who are facing

prolonged periods of power outage.”

Some residents at the community information session later that day said the paperwork wasn’t worth the headache for apayment they might not even be eligible for, givenpower was restored to some areas of the town on Friday.

In addition, some residents said the paymentcouldn’t cover the cost of damages and loss of wages, with people taking days off work to begin the clean-up.

To add to the power outage payments, the state waived its waste levy for storm-impacted residentsacross 21 localgovernment areas, includingEast Gippsland, Wellington, Latrobe City, Bass Coast and Baw Baw.

Chief Officer of Operations of Victoria State EmergencyService, Tim Wiebusch, said there was an unprecedented number of calls for assistance following the storm, 5000 across the state and 80 in Mirboo North alone.

After the storm hit last Tuesday (Feb ruary 13) afte rno on, Mirb oo North was left isolated as SES crews

Reflections

"HAVEyou seen what is happening in Mirboo North?"

As news and photos filtered through the Express newsroom on Tuesday, February 13, 2024,itwas clear this was no ordinary storm event.

Express journalist Katrina Brandon was one of the first on the scene with camera in hand, capturing shots that truly had to be seen to be believed.

Fellowreporter Liam Durkin paid avisitsomedays later,while Blake Metcalf-Holt caught up with the Mirboo North GolfClubupon its reopening.

Here, the trio offer their recollections.

Katrina Brandon

THEREare athousand words that someonecould use to describe the storm that tore through Mirboo North.

Just days beforehand, the community was thriving at the step of the Mirboo North Italian Festa. Days later, it stepped into anew world.

The morningafterthe storm,I was sent to report on Mirboo North’s “apocalyptic” destruction.

Right from the Thorpdale turn-off, you were passing branches on both sides of the road that had previously been cut so emergency services could reach the township. Calm and collected, this wasn’t something Ihadn’t seen before, but the next thing threw me.

People always tell you not to drive overpowerlines after astorm,but

heading into Mirboo North that was the only way in. By then, the speed had already been changed to 40 kilometres per hour.

Treeafter tree, bent signs, haildinted cars and windows were everywhere around town.

Iwas in shock and probably alittle bit emotional over the damage, but the Mirboo North residents were on the move. Some started cleaning early on, and others walked around to see the damage. Ithink Member for Gippsland South, DannyO’Brien,was even more shockedthan the Mirboo North residents.

Looking back, Ic ouldn’t have thought of acommunitythat could build itselfbacktogether as well as Mirboo North has.

Since then,the community has formed the Mirboo North Storm Cell volunteers, held adinner for the volunteers, continued markets and even broughtonthe incredible Winterfest.

It’s amazing what the town has done.

LikeMary,itisstandingtallonce again.

Liam Durkin

I’VE honestly never seen anything like it.

One driv ei nto Mir boo North after the stormwouldhave had you convinced you were in the 2007 film

IAmLegend

Walking one of the fairways at the golf course, large branches were still

were not able to respond to calls for assistance until Wednesday, needing to clear roads into town. Initially, the localCFA was the only emergency crew able to help those needing critical assistance.

"For alocal community like this at MirbooNorth,the local response agencieshavedoneanamazingjob because, for the first24hours, they wereontheir own,” Mr Wiebuschsaid.

“The community are out there with their chainsaws, they’re checking in on their mates,and that’s what we ask the communities to think and do in these major events.”

Minister for Energy and Resources

Lily D’Ambrosio was also in Mirboo North last Friday and said the state government was using the significant storm of 2021 as aguide fortheir emergency response.

The Energy Minister said the storm on Tuesday “surpassed” the damage of the 2021 storms “in terms of viciousness and the tornado-likestorms that we (have seen) right across the whole state.”

St ate Oppositio nl eader, John

falling -the sound of bark snapping and trunks crashing to the earthbelow from agreat height was enough to make your heart skip abeat.

Locals said pictures didn't do the damage justice.

Seeing it first-hand, albeit without the added burden of being directly impacted -that was absolutely the case.

The scene at the Mirboo North Recreation Reserve was indeed hard to fathom.

Justdriving up the hill alone toward the ticket box, ahugetree lay to the sideofthe road allowing vehicle access.

It was an eerie, almost haunting walk toward the toppled goal posts at the scoreboard end, behind which was home to countlessfallentrees and branches.

Both goalposts were lying flat facing straight back down the ground. At the other end, they were bent at right angles over thefence.

As afootballteam, Mirboo North have historically carried anever-saydie attitude.

If thatmentalityever carried into the town, it was clear in the months after February.

The community banded together, witha number of events and town balls all extremely well attended.

Mirboo North vowed to rebuild,and they have

BlakeMetcalf-Holt

VISITING Mirboo North, even months afterthe horrificstormsdecimated the small countrytown, was still very surreal.

Mirboo North Golf Club were underway to getthe course back up and running in June, and even still

Pesuttosaw first-hand the destruction in Mirboo North when he visited last Friday,where he was joined by Nationals party members.

Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, joined the state Opposition leader in Mirboo North, demanding that the state government better support regional communities in the wake of the storm.

“I know many communities already where they are throwingout food

threemonths onwards, the destruction and sadness that was causedcould still be felt on the journeytowards the inflicted neighbourhood.

Debrisstill scattered across the entering roads going kilometres back.

Machinery and trafficcontrol workingovertime to allow safe passage to and from.

The golf club offered an even more unsettling environment as what would usually be an escape for locals now simplyreflected all that the town had suffered.

Pilesofwood laid along the treelines of the course, the result of more than 800 fallentrees in the surrounding area dealt with by contracted loggers and Emergency Recovery Victoria.

-hundredsand hundreds of dollars per house, and to say you don’t get anything unless you’ve been off for seven days is going to leave alot of people -particularly the disadvantaged, in difficult circumstances,” he said.

The Oppositionisrequesting that the stateg ove rnme nt organise a clean-uppackage forMirboo North, as the sheer mass of debris and timber could not be handled by localswith chainsaws and trailers.

However, the remnants of the supported clean-up were left to Mirboo North Golf Club members,leaving them no other options other than to burn it off or store it.

Despite fallen trees still laying around the course unkept and areas still too tough to traverse due to the winter months, the golf club held its firstcompetition since the storm on June 15 onlyonofferfor its local members who weren’tprivileged to unwind during this stressful time.

Mirboo North members hadbeen offered into other courses duringtheir local’s time of closure, showing great comradery from the Gippsland golf community.

Strength: Mirboo Northicon Mar ysur vived thestorm,and likelocal residents,has remained defiant. File photograph

On the ground: Victorian Premier,Jacinta Allan meeting localCFA in Mirboo Nor th afterthe storm

Foraging for the perfect mushroom

By KATRINA BRANDON

"NOTHING makes you more of ahypochondriac than beingamushroom forager," according to local mushroom educator, Natasha Vorogushin.

Ms Vorogushin has been practising the art of mushrooms for many years and teaching foraging and cooking.

Sheconducted courses and talks with MYCommunityApplied Mycology,anot-for-profit shefounded, and String and Salt in Warragul for five to six years. Now, she runs courses with her own company, Tash Can Cook.

"I runmyworkshopsvery differently from how I

Regional movement reports rise

REGIONAL Australia is the nation's 'destination of choice' according to the latest Regional Movers Index (RMI) report, with datashowing thatwhile city dwellers are continuing to relocate out of metropolitanareas,regional Australiansare increasingly staying put.

Regional Australia Institute (RAI) Chief Executive, Liz Ritchiesaiddata from the September2024quarterreportshows cityto-regional relocations are now sitting at 19.8 per cent above the pre-COVID average and 1.8 per cent above the average recorded during the height of lockdowns.

"In contrast, the inter-regional migration index -which tracksregionaltoregional relocations -has fallen by 5.1 per cent, suggesting that more regional residents are content to stay where they are," Ms Ritchie said.

"With the continuingstrongjobs market acrossregional Australia,increasing city property pricesand ongoing cost-of-living pressures, it's no surprise the regions remain desirable.

"The net migration index, measuringthe populationflow into regional Australia,isnow sitting at its highest level since March 2022, and is 80 per cent above pre-COVID average "It's vital this demographic shift is recognised,and regional communitiesare provided with the infrastructure, services and support they need.

"As anation,wemust acknowledge that we are in anew era of migration where regional Australia is at the forefront."

The RMI is apartnership between the RAI and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), which analyses quarterly and annual trends in people movingtoand from Australia's regionalareas, with the latest results proving the appeal of regional living extends beyond coastal towns and areas within reach of the typical daily commuter belt.

Local GovernmentAreas(LGAs) in regional Victoria also surged ahead in popularitywhen it came to annual growth in net internal migration, securing four of the five hotspot places includingWangaratta, Queenscliffe, Strathbogie and Moira.

Mainland Australia's east-coastremains popular, with city movers relocatingtoa regional area, accounting for 90 per cent of all net regional inflows, with regional NSW securing a36per cent share, regional Victoria 30 per cent and regional Queensland 24 per cent.

However, regionalmovement is persisting nation-wide,withthis quarter's report continuing to trackthe topLGAs across states by share and growth in net internal migration. Sydney and Melbourne continue to lead when it comes to migration out of cities and into regions, with those from the Victorian capital accounting for 38 per cent of capital city net outflows (up from 27 per cent the year prior).

The report also reveals 35.6 per cent more people are moving fromcapital cities to the regions, than back in the opposite direction.

Ms Ritchie said given the regions' ongoing strong growth, it wasvital they remained top-of-mind for decision-makers.

"Regional Australia is truly thenation's new frontier," she said.

"There are so many opportunities in our regional communities, but likewise we know there are challenges. Housing for example remains akey ongoing concern in many communities.

"RegionalAustralia is growing and for that to continue we need adequate foundations.

"The time to lay them is now."

taught them through String and Salt, as that was more of their structure and formula. Now that Iamrunning my workshops, Imainly focuson education and just teaching peoplehow to identify mushrooms," Ms Vorogushin said.

"I teach about mushroom biology, so Igothrough all the details of the partsofthe natural mushroom. Without knowing that, it's tough to identify and learnhow to specifydifferentfeatures of different mushrooms. Afterwards, Iliketotakepeople out for alittle walk and see what we find out there."

Through the classes and workshops, Ms Vorogushin talks about how thereisalwaysa chanceofmisidentificationwhile foraging, the different things to look outfor,and the many different ways to confirm amushroom's identity. Some things to look out for include:

 Smell;

 Colour change in ascratch test;

 The texture of the cap (smooth, scales, hairy, warts);

 The environment they are in;

 The gills underneath the mushroom (spacing, how they are attached to the stem); and,

 The stem itself.

Ms Vorogushin said aruleofthumb when foraging is to throw it out if in doubt and that you need to be 100 per cent sure that what you are lookingat is edible. She also said that foraging can be quite scary because you can accidentally hurt someone, butonce you have familiarised yourself and crosschecked with your sources, it does become easier.

"WhenI first started,Iwas also terrified because Ididn't want to hurt myself in the process," she said.

"So, it took me along time even to pick up the courage to eat anything Ifound, even though I could seevery clearly whatIfound resembled 100 percentofwhat was represented online through field books, photos and trusted colleagues and other mycologists online.

"Thereare about30different edible species of mushroomout there that can be foragedfor. Online recourses, Facebook groups(such as the Australian Wide Mushroom Hunters), and field guides are all handyrecourses for you to cross-reference with what you see out there compared to online."

The mushroomforaging season is as early as the startofMarchthrough to the end of July, depending on seasonal weather, according to Ms Vorogushin, which is when she runs her classes.

Ms Vorogushin's classes are run all around Gippsland, mainly in the Latrobe and Baw Baw regions.

For moreinformation, visit the TashCanCook Facebook page.

Victims require reception

ONE Gippsland is calling on the federal government to improve mobile and internet services in the region to support communities and authorities during natural disasters.

The calls come as Telstra and Optus switch off their 3G networks.

One Gippsland spokespersonand Wellington Shire Chief Executive, David Morcom said mobile and internet coverage resilient duringdisasters had the power to protect lives.

“Gippsland has experienced almost 40 natural disasters in the past 10 years including catastrophic bushfires, floodsand stormsthat have forever changed our communities,” he said.

“As aregion, Gippsland has more lived experience than most and that is why we know that disasterready services need to be activated at any time."

In its submission to the federal government’s 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review, One Gippsland called for telecommunications to be recognised as an essential service, as well as:

 Providers being required to meet service continuity standards to prevent prolonged and widespread outages during natural disasters;

 Providers required to provide reasonable

standards of services to areas with low population, and;

 Infrastructure required to have at least 72 hours of auxiliary back-up power to avoid outages during emergencies.

“Mobile and digital capability is just part of how we live and work today, people need to be contacted when they are on the move,” Mr Morcom said.

“Our communities are hot spots for tourism so during peak holiday periods having black and grey communication spotsissodangerous, visitors to our communities must be able to be warnedifdisaster strikes.

“The government’s own data shows extreme weather events and natural disasters are on the rise, there has never been amore important time to get this right."

Leader: OneGippsland spokesperson and Wellington ShireCouncil Chief Executive, David Morcom.

Photograph supplied

Roads getting much needed assistance

THE state government is making communities safer by working with councils to deliver vital upgrades on local roads over the next threeyears.

Ministerfor Roadsand Road Safety Melissa Horne announced works funded through the $210 million Safer Local Roads and Streets Program have begun -which is helping councils identify, plan and deliver projects that keep drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safe.

“Workingalongside Victoria’s councils, we’re delivering important upgradesonlocal roads today, so our communities are safer intothe future," she said.

The state government is allocating up to $2 million each to 79 councils across the state, and will provide awiderange of safetyimprovements until June 30 2027 -with projects set to deliver new raisedcrossings,upgrades to kerbs,intersections,

roundabouts and pedestrian islands.

Local government authorities own and operate 87 per cent of Victoria’s roads, and everyyear about 40 per cent of road trauma occurs on council-managed roads.

The Safer Local Roads and Streets Program is backed by the government’s 2030RoadSafety Strategy targets -which aims to halve road deaths, reduce serious injury and ultimately achieve zero trauma by 2050.

In the know: Localmushroom forager, Natasha Vorogushin.

Photograph supplied

Raising Edenaims to beautifyregion

By KATRINA BRANDON

KEEPING social and gettingthings done, the

Raising Eden team is out and about.

Raising Eden team members Chris Barley and Selina Wolfe have taken to local streets, taking on initiatives they feel need to be completed in the Latrobe area.

Raising Eden aims to be ac ollabora tive, community-driveninitiative to upliftand beautify LatrobeCity. It includes an initiative that brings together peopleofall agestopitch in, work on clean-up projects, take pride in public spaces, and socialise.

“There are alot of people who want to do more, be

more, and help others, but they need asafespace and people to be around to start that,” Mr Barley told the Express.

“At the moment, Ibelieve it will just be some guysfromGippsability; Selina and Iwillhelp run this event. There are few, but it will be seen throughout local Facebooknoticeboards such as Moe and Surrounding Areas.

“Everyone is invited. Come and do what you can to help the community get together.”

Gippsability Disability Support Services is afamily-founded and operated business led by directors Anthony Drouggas and Yannick Teijken.

The service is set up to support people in achieving

Time of care for one another

THE RoyalAustralian CollegeofGPs (RACGP) has urged Australians to look after themselves and their loved ones this holiday season.

College President, Dr Michael Wright, said thatreaching out and helping otherscan make all the difference.

“The holiday season can be achallenging time for many Australians,” he said.

“Many of us can havefamily and relationship pressures, financial pressures may become moreobvious, and isolationand loneliness can be at their worst this time of year too. So,during this festive seasonplease try to look after yourself and the people in your life. It can be agood time to reflect on how your year has been,and to consider if youwant to make changes -and to seek professional help if you want support. Taking care of your mental health is just as importantasany other health issue.”

Dr Wright said Australiafaces high levels of mental health issues throughout the year, and GPs are often the first portofcallfor diagnosing and treating mental and physical health conditions.

“Our 2024 Health of the Nation report revealed that 71 per cent of GPs cite mental

health in their top reasons for patient consults, up from 61 per cent in 2017,” he said.

“I’m also very concernedabout patients delaying mental healthcare due to cost-of-living pressures-one-in-five Australians delayed seeing amental health professional due to costs last year, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data.

“This is why we’ve been calling for increasing patients’ Medicare rebates for GP mental health and longer consults, so this essential healthcare is affordable for all who need it.

The government can do much more to ensure all Australians can access affordable mental health care.

“I also encourage my GP colleagues to prioritise their own mental health and wellbeing. At this time of year GPs are very busy helping patients, and it’s important that we look after ourselves too, and seek help if we need to.”

Those experiencing stress or know someone who might be in dangercan call Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or Dr4Drs for help and support.

 Lifeline -131114  Beyond Blue -1300224 636  Dr4Drs -1300 374 377

their goals, up-skilling, and providing things they wouldn’t regularly do, like dining in arestaurant.

The Gippsability team aims to create asafe, secure, supportive environment and hopes to provide and give encouragement to their clients.

The idea behind the name is that Latrobe City used to be Eden of the East.

“This used to be considered abeautiful place they called Eden. We might continue that name. We often forget how beautiful things are around us and how much we need other people on adaily basis,” Mr Barley said.

Currently, the team is doing small jobs, such as picking up rubbish from local community areas.

Chris and Selina have many ideas for Raising Eden's future and hope to soon be able to get funding for those projects.

Ms Wolfe proposed an all-abilities park in Moe.

So far,the team has had afew activitiesdays and is looking forward to doing more.

“There couldbeevents in the future where it couldjust be afundraising day wherewehave stalls, where we are raising funds for things, such as awareness for mental health," Mr Barley said. "I think it is about taking the initiative of the community instead of reaching out to government and expecting some other peopletodothings when it will take along time.”

The Range Retirement Village is aretirement living community in Moe, boasting alive-in Manager and high-quality residential villas set inside agated community.

The Range offers elegant new and refurbished two and three-bedroom independent living villas, set in attractive and well-manicured surrounds. Each villa features an open-plan living area,wellappointed kitchen, private courtyardgarden and single or double garage.

Plan your social life with your new community.

Youwill have the flexibility and freedom to embrace life with asocialcalendar that includes, billiards, indoor bowls, craft, movie nights, trivia, bingo,cards and many moresocial activities and make use of our community bus to getaroundour local area

Now is your time to down size and embrace life at The Range

Helpinghand: ChrisBarleyand Selina Wolfeare leading change within the communitywiththe initiative, Raising Eden.

Photograph: KatrinaBrandon

Safety concerns for hot pets

Hepatitis Ctest results in an instant

Health check: Gippslandersatrisk of Hepatitis Ccan nowget results within an hour of testing forthe bloodborne virus Photograph supplied

GIPPSLANDERSatrisk of Hepatitis Ccan now get results within an hour of testing for the bloodborne virus.

Anew machine at Latrobe Community Health Service has drastically reduced the time and invasiveness of former Hepatitis C testing, and opens the door for more people to test for the infection.

“Where results may have previously taken up to aweek and multiple appointments to confirm,this test can confirmthe infection within 60 minutes,” ISHY Community Health Nurse, Neal Daly said.

“The new machine works by taking asmall prick of blood from the finger, instead of requiring ablood test. The quickresults mean we can support people when they receive their diagnosis, and we can get their treatment started sooner.”

Hepatitis Cisa bloodborne virus that affects the liver.Sharing injectingequipment and getting atattoo or bodypiercing with unsterile equipment are common ways you can get the infection.

HepatitisCiscurable, but without treatment it can cause liver disease and liver cancer.

The new machine at Latrobe Community Health Serviceispartofthe federal government’s National Hepatitis CPointofCare Testing program,whichaims to eliminate the infection by 2030.

“Because this testing program is embedded within alocal health service thatthe community trusts, we thinkthis will result in more people getting tested and treated for Hepatitis C,” Mr Daly said.

“Hepatitis Cisvery much treatable, but peopleare reluctant to seek testing or care for the infection due to stigma, shame, or not believing there’s apossibility of having it. But Hepatitis Cisout there, and testing and treatment is important to minimisethe risk of transmission within the community, and to reduce the potential of liver damage or liver cancer forthosewho have it.”

Anyone seeking help for Hepatitis Ccan phone 1800 242 696 for free, non-judgemental care and asktobereferred to the Liverwise or HepatitisCnurse You can also drop into The Hub at 81-87 Buckley Street,Morwell from Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm to be referred.

RSPCA Victoria has issued asafetywarning to all pet owners to protect their pets in the heat ahead of scorching weather this festive season.

Heatwaves, burning footpaths, sudden thunderstorms,bushfireevacuations and snakes and ticks arejust some of the things to watch out for.

RSPCAVictoriaChief Veterinarian Dr Bronwyn Okesaidhot weather can impact the safety of all pets.

“Hot and extremely hot weather can be devastating for pet health,” Dr Oke said.

“Heat stroke is potentiallydeadly andoccurs quickly for many pets; some signs of heat stroke include your pet panting excessively, vomiting or has diarrhoea,orhas very bright or very pale gums.

“Heat stroke can occur even after acool change comes through, with footpathsand concrete continuing to radiate heat, creating high temperatures at ground level.

“If your pet is displaying these symptoms or you’re concerned call your vet immediately.”

Preventing heatstroke is possiblebyensuring pets have access to shaded areas with fresh, clean drinking water and good ventilation at all times to help them cool down.

“Hotfootpathscan also burn yourpet’s pawpads; to prevent this, check the footpath temperature with the back of your hand, if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them,” Dr Oke warned.

“Considerbringingyoung and senior animals, or small pets likerabbits, guinea pigs, and birds inside for the day.

“Also, be vigilant for ticks and snakeswhen walkingyourpets and,for those with livestock, be prepared in case drought conditions affect your water sources or feed supplies.

“It’s crucial everyone in charge of an animal during hot weather understands their responsibilitiesand makes sure their pet is safe this summer.”

RSPCA Victoria’s guide to aPet-Safe Summer is available online with helpful tips and pointers to ensure pet safety.

Free health checks available

LATROBE Health Services, amember-first, not-for-profit health insurer, has announces it is giving members twoweeksfreeoncompletion of afreeShane WarneLegacy Health Check this holiday season.

AShane WarneLegacy HealthCheck is available to anyone over the age of 18 and provides instant insights intocardiovascular risk factors such as heart rate, blood pressure, heart age, BMI and risk of diabetes.

Latrobe Health Services chief executive, Ian Whitehead said the service was all about improving health outcomes for locals. "We are committed to givingbacktoour

members through community initiatives that facilitate preventative care," he said.

"Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Australia, with regional and rural areas disproportionally affected. We are committed to supporting ongoing community programs andinvestinginour members' health and wellbeing."

To apply, Latrobe Health Services members can head to the nearest Shane Warne Legacy health station until January 23, 2025.

To find alocationinyour local area, visit: https://shanewarnelegacy.com/pages/ heart-test

Improving cardiac survival rates

NEW research shows Victorians are more likely to survive acardiac arrest compared to 20 years ago, thanks to increased bystander intervention.

The study, supportedbyAmbulance Victoria (AV), foundVictorians who experienceabystanderwitnessed initial shockable out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in 2021/22 were three times more likely to pull through than two decades ago.

The Victorian AmbulanceCardiac Arrest Registry (VACAR) was used to assessmore than 102,000 OHCA cases attended by emergency medical services in Victoria between January 12003and December 31 2022.

The figures showed in 2022 Victorians were 4.5 times more likely to receive bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) compared to 2003.

Ratesofbystander defibrillationfrom publicly accessible automated external defibrillators (AEDs) also increased 22-fold during this time.

AV DirectorResearch and Evaluation, Dr Ziad Nehme said the data reflected apositive change in bystander intervention.

“Sudden cardiac arrest is amajor public health challenge, so it’s great we’re seeing more people willing to jump in and help,” he said.

“We know survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest depends on the chain of survival and quick bystander intervention.

“This is why boosting the responsiveness of community members to these events is critical.”

This study is one of the first to examine long term trends in 12-month patient outcomes.

Since 2011,annualfollow-up interviews with OHCA patientsare completed to assess their health-related quality of life and functional recovery.

Among the 4452 adults discharged fromhospital aliveduringJanuary1 2010toJune 30 2022, 93.3 per cent were alive at 12 months.

Of those who responded to the follow-upenquiry, 85.3per cent had GlasgowOutcome Scale–Extended scores, indicatinggoodrecovery or moderate disability, and38.5 per cent reported full health.

Dr Nehme said the improved survival rates further supported paramedics’call for Victorians to be familiar with Call, Push, Shock.

“Victoria has one of the best cardiac arrest survival rates in the world, but we can continue to improve those rates by increasing education,” he said.

“Anyonewho witnesses acardiacarrest should call Triple Zero (000), start chestcompressions and, if there’s one nearby, grab adefibrillator and apply shocks as prompted before paramedics arrive.

“In three simple steps you may not only save the patient’s life but improve their quality of life long after the event.”

Keep cool: Hydration is keythissummer forpets andtheir owners Photograph supplied

Critical land tax bill for Victorians

NEW land tax thresholds introduced by the state government on January 1this year haveseen eastern Victorian landholders begin receiving a land tax bill for the first time.

The land tax is one of the 55 new taxes, fees or charges introduced by Labor in Victoriainthe past 10 years, according to the Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath. Applying to

investment properties, unoccupied homes, holiday homes, commercial properties, or vacant land.

Land tax assessments are generally issued betweenJanuary and Juneeachyear as part of the Labor’s COVID Debt Repayment Plan.

As accounts are issued from the State Revenue Office to land owners, Ms Bath is urging landholders to carefully check their liability before paying.

may no longer be eligible for an exemption based on property value alone, there were others, with it being important to check the criteria before paying.

Shortcomings of natural gas

VICTORIANS continuetobedenied the affordable and secure energy they deserve amid new warnings Australia may become reliant on imported natural gas, according to the state Opposition.

Energy expertshave reportedly raised concerns overnatural gassupplies in southern states, including Victoria, andraised the potential need to import gas via an LNG import terminal.

Thesewarnings followed athreatnotice issued by the Australian Energy Market Operator(AEMO) of potentialgas shortfalls and blackouts impacting Victorian homes and

business lastwinter,due to rapidly decreasing supplies and an increased reliance on gaspeaking for electricity generation.

The Shadow Minister for Energy, Affordability and Security, David Davis, said gas shortages and higher prices were the consequences of a decadeofmismanagement of Victoria’s energy system under the Labor government.

“Instead of demonising natural gas and undermining confidenceinthe industry,the Allan Labor government musturgently reverse its gas ban and work constructively with the privatesector to bringdesperately needed new supplies into the system," he said.

“Therehas many examples of land tax bills being incorrectly issued to people, organisationsand community groups who qualify for exemptions," she said.

“I have raised with the Treasurer local examples where eastern Victorians have been issued aland tax bill for land that they do not own."

Ms Bath said the state government rammed the legislation through the upper house of state parliament late last year after securing adeal with the Greens.

"Labor’snew land tax has resulted in many people receiving alandtax bill for the first time, even if there was aprevious exemption under old legislation," she said.

It wasimportant to note thatwhile residents

“The most common exemptions include if the property is your principal place of residence or if the land is used for primaryproduction,while thereisalsoexemptions that community groups and not-for-profitorganisations may be eligible for," she said.

“I am urging anyone who has received alandtax billfor the first time and is unsureoftheir rights to ensure they are not paying tax when they should not be. In the midst of acost-of-living crisis it is unfathomable land taxhas been introduced by the Allan government when people can least afford it.

"It is wrong that everyday Victorians are being punished with new taxes that are clearly aimed at revenue raising to pay for Labor’soverspending and economic mismanagement.”

Information on land tax including how to apply for an exemption can be found onlineatwww sro.vic.gov.au/land-tax/land-tax-exemptions,or by phoning the State Revenue Office(SRO) on 132 161 during business hours.

Duck, duck, duck count

THE Game Management Authority (GMA) has begun its annualsurvey of Victoria’s game duck population

Thesurveyisbeing conducted by wildlife biologists, who are recording the presence, species and number of game ducks at morethan 850waterbodies across Victoria, includingwetlands, farm dams, sewerage treatment plants, streams and rivers.

The survey also includes ground countswhere thehelicopterisunabletooperate. Satellite imaging willthen be used to determine the amount of wetlandhabitatavailableand, together with survey abundance estimates, used to estimate the totalabundance of Victoria’s game duck species.

The GMA is continuing this research as part of the state government’s Sustainable Hunting Action Plan 2021-24 and commitment to introducing adaptive harvest management.

GMA Research Principal, Dr Jason Flesch said regularlycollecting data is critical to understanding whatdrives the abundance and productivity of game duck populations.

“Results from this survey will help to accurately estimate total game duck abundance,based on environmental conditions at the time,” Dr Flesch said.

“This research benefits wildlife conservation by increasing our understanding of the ecologyof Victoria’s game duck populations and the health of their habitats.”

The 2024 survey was scheduled to take place from Tuesday,November 12 until Friday, November 29, inclusive.

The results of the survey willbepublished on the GMA website next year.

For more information, visit:gma.vic.gov.au/ research/duck-research

Photograph; istock

ONE POINTERS

1. Which animal can be seen on the Porsche logo?

2. What do bees collect to make honey?

3. What name does deer meat go by?

4. By what name were the Egyptian kings/rulers known?

TWOPOINTERS

5. What is the only fruit with seeds on the outside?

6. Who is the talk show host with the Carpool Karaoke sketch?

7. What is the largest island in the world?

8. John F. Kennedy was assassinated in which city?

THREE POINTER

9. What Danish author is considered by many to be the most prolific fair ytale writer?

10. Anubis, the God of Death, had the head of a...?

11. Which name is rapper Sean Combs better known by?

12. What was the name of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America in 1620?

FOUR POINTER

13. Which actor appeared in films “Face Off” and “Ghost Rider”?

14. What animal’smilk is pink?

FIVE POINTER

15. What are the top 5universities in the world, one point for each correct answer

Howdid youfare?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 22-29: Well done; 15-21: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement; 0-8: Hit the books.

Target Time No. 0244

Howtoplay...

Using the 9letters in the gr id, howmany wordsoffour letters or morecan you list? The centreletter must be included and each lettermay be used onlyonce No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural wordsending in ‘s’.

Blood and plasma donations sought in 2025

AS we welcome the new year, I’d like to thank all people across Australiawho rolled up asleeveand donated blood or plasmain2024, encouraging them to continuethis life-saving act in 2025 and beyond.

This includes the 11,900 donations given in Traralgon. With each donation saving up to three lives, the local impact was farreaching-upto 35,7000 lives were saved.

Donations also helped improve the quality of life forpeopleliving with cancer, immune conditions, blooddisorders and more. The flow on impact of this incredible generosity to their families is profound.

However, Lifeblood’s regular donors can’t do it alone.

In Australia, someone will need blood every 18 seconds. And the number of conditions that medicinesmade from plasmacan treat is also increasing. Hospital demand for Red Cross products is at a 12-year high and continues to grow.

If you want to do something for others that is trulylife changing, now is the time to make an appointment to donate blood or plasma. Only three per cent of the eligible population in Australia donates, which might come as ashock to many. With demand so high and growing, we can’t simplyassumesomeone elsewill do it anymore. Lifeblood needs another 100,000 peopletobecome donors in the nextyear to continue to meet this demand.

Blood canbedonatedonceevery 12 weeks. That equals four donations ayear and totals just four hours of time. It is asmall sacrifice for alifechanging impact.

For those who want to givemore frequently, Lifeblood now collects more plasmathan blood and it can be donated every two weeks.

Most donors in Australia donate between two to three times per year and we would love to see this average be ‘five in 2025’.

If those who can, donated just once or twice more next year, we would be in avery enviable position. We know Australians loveachallenge so thisis one we are putting out there.

Thank you again to everyone who generously donated in 2024, let’s see what we can achieve together in 2025.

Lifeblood’s Traralgon donor centre is at 20 Seymour Street, Traralgon.

Please book adonationnow on 13 14 95 or at lifeblood.com.au.

Stephen Cornelissen

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood CEO

Dayofreckoning

THERE has been pros and consabout nuclear power. Labor is responsible for this push to nuclear by shutting down power stations, stopping coal mining and stopping gas explorations.

All of these made our country prosperous and Labor’s dream of renewables is just that -a dream. It is not sustainable and the hypocrisy of the Labor government selling all our assets overseas cannot be ignored. If it is good for other countries, why is it so bad for Australia thatthe money they gain will be wasted andnot be used to our betterment?

This whole climate changemyth has been nurtured by the Greens for political gain and the voters are being conned with their votes.

The Egyptian proverb quoted by Joseph Lis ('Modernproverb', Latrobe Valley Express Opinion, 17/07/24) is awarning that something hastobe done to protect our way of life.

The quote by OliverBergmens ('Oh so true', LVE, 17/07/24)“intelligentpeoplebeing silencedasto not offendstupidpeople” hits the nail on the head

The success of the Yes vote stated “I will not be silenced”, many more hold the same opinion. The finalsay will be at the voting polls on election day.

Patricia Correa Traralgon

Medium setting

IT is curious that duringMrZurkas’ long career in the entertainment industry ('Loud, louder, loudest', LVE 23/12/24) he has apparently never learned that disco sound systems (such as what he operated in the tent at the Hotel Traralgon) include avolume control.

All that he ever needed to do -soastobea considerate neighbour and to avoid the conviction which he now cries woe is me about -was to simply turn down the volume to areasonable level.

John Stewart Traralgon

Vocal local

IN 1765 France, during the primitive superstition of the 600-year Holy Inquisition that devastated Western Europe from the 13th to 18th centuries, Chevalier de La Barre, a19-year-old admirer of the French writer Voltaire, refused to uncover his face andkneel in thepresence of areligious procession. For this 'crime' he was torturedbythe inquisitors, his tongue ripped out, and then beheaded. His body was thereafter burned at the stake into which his executioners also committed acopy of Voltaire's 'Philosophical Dictionary'.

Although Ivery much doubt that Iwill be tortured andburnt at the stake if Ikeep championing 'heretical' fossil fuels (and thereby also 'blaspheming' renewables) and if Iamever elected to Latrobe City Council, there is no question that Iwould be gagged from publicly speaking againstLatrobe City Council’s renewables-only policy.

Having said that, Ibelievemayor Dale Harriman and deputy mayor Sharon Gibson have done and are doing agood job.

Instead, Iamfully committed to incessantly exposing -via my letters to the Latrobe Valley Express -the terminal cancer that is arenewables-only

based economy, which too many in the Valley mistakenly view as 'progress'. Lastly, and while Istill have breath in my body, Iwill never be amuzzled spectator to unfairness or stupidity. The grave will supply plenty of time for silence.

Joseph Lis Morwell

THE Latrobe Valley Express welcomes letters to the editor.

Preference will be given to brief, concise letters which address local issues.

The editor Liam Durkin, reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of space and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.

The Express doesnot publishletters from anonymous contributors.

Letters must include aphone number, email address and the author’s hometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity. Readers are entitled to aright of reply to a letter directed at them.

While healthy debate is encouraged, the editor will use his discretion if he believes letters are becoming slagging matches between writers.

The views expressed in letters to the editor are those of thewriters,and do not necessarily reflect the views of Latrobe Valley Express management or staff.

The letters section is designed to allow people to have their say, and not be hijacked for political agendas.

Letter sr egarding relig ion will not be published.

Emailletters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include ‘Letter to the Editor’ in the subject line. Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm. Have your say

The Latrobe Valley Express, Monday,

Reducing stress on our local services

Building up ambulance

THE state government is delivering new state-of -the-art ambulance branches throughout Gippsland.

Thisisa part of $279 million invested since 2015 to deliver 51 ambulancestations with better working conditions.

Recently,the new Fosterambulance station was completed with upgrades such as afour-bay garage for ambulances, four rest and recline areas for paramedics to recuperate, training facilities, afully equipped kitchen, car parking and improved security to make sure crews are safe right around the clock.

The state government has now built seven stations to provide extra support in the Gippsland region including in Moe, Morwell, Traralgon,Warragul,Orbostand Paynesville.

Membe rf or East ern Victo ria, Tom McIntosh welcomed the investments.

“Fosteristhe latest of several new, modern ambulance stations in Gippsland, all fantas tic inve stme nts in the loca l community as well as the local paramedic workforce, the regional health system, emergency services and the care provided to local residents," he said.

Alongside improved infrastructure, the state government has invested in arange of initiatives to improve access to emergency ambulance services in regional Victoria.

The Victorian Budget 2023/24 also delivered more than $200 million in funding to improve access to emergency care, with an additional $46 million investmenttowards training additional mobile intensive care ambulance paramedics,establishing 25 paramedic practitionersand supporting the new Centre for Paramedicine.

Helping to meet the growing needs of the state, afurther $146 million from the Victorian Budget 2024/25 is supporting services like the Secondary Triage Service and Medium Acuity TransportServices, freeing up paramedics so they are available to respond to the most time-critical patients.

Looking dapperduring hospital visit

WHEN ChristianSchill and BrianScott from Gippsprint Office Choice, Traralgon learnedabout TheWear House, an initiative supporting Latrobe Regional Hospital patients with brand-newclothingand essentials, they were inspired to get involved.

Entirely funded by community donations and fundraising, The Wear House aims to bring together locals, hospital staff, and volunteers to ensure patients in need have access to comfortable, dignified clothing. By providing an alternative to traditional hospital gowns, the initiative has become abeacon of compassion for those it serves.

During arecent visit, Christian and Brian met with Lisa Twigger, one of the key coordinators behind The Wear House. They presented their donation and toured the facility,gaining insight into the impact the initiative has on patients.

Ms Twigger, who oversees the organisationofclothing and toiletries, expressedher heartfelt gratitude for Gippsprint’s support, andencouragesother local businesses to get on board and support the initiative.

Mr Scott said the business saw the initiative as agreat one.

“As alocal business, we’re super proud to support community initiatives like The Wear House," he said.

"It’s all about locals helping locals and creating astronger, more caring community here in Latrobe City.”

Donations of new clothing -especially men’s t-shirts,toiletries and underwear are in constant demandtosustain the project’s mission.

To learn more, phone the Latrobe Regional Health Community Engagement team on (03) 5173 8577.

VOLUNTEER emergency services organisations in the LatrobeValleyhave receivedafunding boost to support their ongoing service to the local community.

The boost is part of the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) grants.

Newly appointed state treasurer Jaclyn Symes made the announcement while Minister for Emergency Services.

Grant recipients will share in morethan$15 million to purchase new equipment, improve emergency response capability and support community safety.

Three grants, with atotal value of $79,134, wereawarded to volunteer emergency services organisations in Latrobe Valley, including CFA.

The CFAhas receivedfunding for newequipment which will allow volunteers to betterassistthe community during an emergency.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing said the grants would make anoticeable difference.

“Congratulations to all the deserving volunteer groups in Latrobe Valley receiving grants," she said.

"The Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Programisanimportantannual program providing acriticalboost to local volunteers, ensuring their equipment and facilities are up to date.”

VESEP is an annualgrants pro gram th at provides funding to Victorian emergency services volunteer groups to purchase essentialoperational equipment, vehicles and appliancesand undertake minor facility improvements.

Since 2015, the state government has provided $138 million in VESEP grants, ensuring volunteer groups throughout thestate have the resources, equipmentand facilities they need to continue their vital work supporting local communities.

Through this round of grants, CountryFire Authority brigades have received more than $11 million, Victoria State EmergencyServiceunits received more than $2.5 million, Life Saving Victoria’ssurf lifesavingclubsreceived more than $879,000 and Marine Search and Rescue crews received more than $368,000.

There are 268 projects to receive agrant as part of the2024/25 program.

Support: Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing is backing local emergency ser vices File photograph

Gippsland atrain desert: Cameron

BUSES have replaced trains along the Gippsland line two-thirds of the time since the start of 2023.

Shadow Minister for Roads and Nationals Leader, Danny O’Brien, analysed V/Line announcements on social media and calculated buses had replaced trains on 416 out of 639 days -65per cent -between January 2023 and September 2024.

Mr O'Brien says Labor earlier refused to answer hisquestion about the number of days buses had replaced trains on the Gippsland line, leaving him to trawl through V/Line announcementson X/Twitter instead.

The Nationals’ Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, said Latrobe Valley and regional Victoria had been left behind while resources are directed to cost blowouts on Melbourne projects.

“Forseven longyears we have beenpromised improvedservicesunder theGippsland Rail Revival Project, butour services are going backwards while Labor blows billions on the Suburban Rail Loop,” he said.

“It’snojoketosay that Gippslanders check to see if abus might be replacing their regular train service, and they have frankly had agutful.

“When trainsaren’t running in theLatrobe

Valley, commuters must travel by bus to East Pakenham and walkover 100metreswithout cover to the train station.

“This is ahugebarrier for people with mobility issues and the elderly, and many people tell me they struggletoget from the bus to the station before the train departs.

“The most frustrating aspect is that most of the time the disruptions have occurred due to works in Melbourne like level crossing removals that offer no benefit for us at all.

“There is no end in sightfor the Gippsland Regional Rail Revival and while the saga drags on it delays other critical projects like safety works at the dangerousBankStreet (Traralgon) intersection that are dependent on upgradesto railway signaling.

“This government has spent more than $40 billion in costblowoutsonmegacity transport projects,but we cannot get them to cast an eyeeast of Pakenham where our roads and train services have been abandoned."

Minist er for Publi ca nd Acti ve Transp ort, Gabrielle Williams said more services were in the pipeline across the V/Line network.

“We’readding almost 100 new services across Victoria’s regionalpublic transport network -makingiteasier for Victorians to get to where they need to go,” she said.

“We’re deliveringmore modern and reliable trains, and giving passengers more travel options to travel around our state.”

The state government is extending train services across the Ballarat, Albury and Bendigo linesdeliveringmore public transport connections for regional passengers.

Ms Williams announced that anew V/Line timetable will deliver arange of new travel options for regional passengers on some of Victoria’s busiest lines.

The timetabletook effect on Sunday, December 1 2024, with Ballarat Line passengers set to benefit from three evening peakservices extendingto Bacchus Marsh instead of terminating at Melton.

The state government says its regional fare cap has transformed the way people travel around the state, with more than 33 million train trips taken across the network and more than $90 million saved since it was introduced last year.

Disappointment: Member forMorwell, Mar tin Cameron is per plexedhow buses have replaced trains along the Gippsland linet wo-thirds of the time since thestart of last year Photograph supplied

Singing praise for Traf High students

THE Trafalgar High Schoolcommunity came together to acknowledge more than 200 students receiving awardsfor endeavour,leadership or academic excellence before the school year was out. Anumberofstudentsreceived awards over multiple categories.

The afternoon was opened by Ambrose Bajada of the outgoing 2024 studentleadership team, making an acknowledgment of Country and areflecting on the school year by Trafalgar High School Council President, Holly Perriam.

Amajor award is the DorothyHoare OAM Community Service Shield, named after Dorothy Hoare OAM -awell known volunteer of Trafalgar especiallywith the Trafalgar Youth Resource Centreand apast member of the school council. Dorothy was present to hand the shield to Baxter Hankinson as principal Brett Pedlow announced whatearnedBaxter the 2024 award.

Topnotch: Trevor ByrneofTrafalgar Lions Club presenting Year 12 DuxtoPoppySusa

“Baxter, aYear 9studentand aproud member of our SRC as acommunity leader, has truly made his mark this year," Mr Pedlow said.

“He dedicated his efforts to acommunity project that breathed new life into acherished charity eventonour school calendar.The event, the World’s Greatest Shave, raises vital funds for cancerresearch. Baxter not only formed ateam and secured sponsorships, but he also reimagined the event, taking it to new heights.

“His leadership extended beyond hisyear level, as he coordinated peers from Year 9while managing students across different year levels, including Year 12s.

“Typically, we wait until students reachtheirfinal year of high school to align their name with that of Dorothy’s, arecognised community champion, however, Baxter’s extraordinary leadership, organisational skills, and commitment to the

Getting to the root of exams blip

DIS TINGUI SHE De xp ert sh av eb ee n appointed to lead the root-and-branch review of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).

The review will conduct independent monitoring in the wake of the 2024 VCE exams errors. Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, BenCarroll announcedthe appointment of Dr Yehudi Blacher PSM as lead reviewer and the appointment of Margaret Crawford PSM as the independent monitor.

Dr Blacher was awarded the Public Service Medal in 2012, was made aNationalFellow of the InstituteofPublic Administration Australia in 2014 and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Monash University in 2022. He was also aProfessorial Fellowatthe University of Melbourne between 2012 and 2022.

Margaret Crawford has served many years as asenior public servant in Victorian, New South Wales and Commonwealth governments and as Auditor-General for New South Wales for the past eight years. In 2023 she wasawarded aPublicService

Medal for outstanding service in ensuring the integrity of the NSW Public sector.

The state government says Dr Blacher and Ms Crawford will operateintandemand leave no stone unturned to providefull confidence to Victorianstudents, families and schools.

Dr Blacher will head up ateam of specialist experts who will conduct acomprehensive organisational review of all elements of the exam authority’s structure and operations. Theywill also run areview into the production issues that affected the 2024 exams.

Ms Crawford will oversee all aspects of exam preparation, managementand production. Her work will include consideration of recommendations from previous reviews, including the Bennett Review, and any early recommendations from the root-and-branch review.

The state government hopesthe complete organisational reviewand independent monitoring will strengthen the integrity of the VCE exams and provide full confidence to Victorian students, families and schools.

World’s Greatest Shave have madehim morethan deserving of this recognition now.”

Another special guest on the night was Joe Pedemont of the Minin gand Energy Union Victorian Division,who gifted ascholarship towards student VCE costs.

CodieMcDermaid, whohad displayed resilience and apositive attitude towards his Unit 1and 2studies,was aworthy recipient forthisaward towards his Unit 3and 4studies in 2025.

The TrafalgarDistrict Historical Societyalso presented awards in memory of Max Gibson for students who had excelled in the study of history in 2024.

The junior awardwenttoBaxterHankinson and the senior award was presented to Kyen Jenkins.

The DuxofYear12was PoppySusa, who was presented an additional prize with her award by the Lions Club of Trafalgar.

Poppy was also the subjectaward winner of Unit 3/4 Chemistry, Unit 3/4 English and Unit 3/4 General Mathematics -anaward named in memory of the late Anthony Wilson, past teacher at Trafalgar High School.

The nightconcluded withamusical act by XanRaven, amusical act made up of Year 11 students and music teachers from the school.

Youth support: JoePedemont of the Victorian Mining and Energy Union presenting the MEU VCEscholarship to CodieMcDermaid. Photographs supplied

Future historians: Kyen Jenkins andBaxterHankinson with Glenys RallsofTrafalgar District Historical society

Well deserved: DorothyHoareOAM presenting the CommunitySer vice ShieldtoBaxter Hankinson, who wasalsothe junior recipient of the Max Gibson Memorial Histor yaward

Morwell Bowling Club strides ahead

By KATRINABRANDON

AFTER months of work, the Morwell Bowling Club is back in action.

On Christmas Eve, the MorwellBowling Club opened their doors for the firsttimesince the business was engulfed by flames last August.

Anew structure has been built over the main greens, and two temporary marquees have allowedthe businesstoopen acafe area.The club has limited options and is waiting on afew things before openingthe kitchen, but members can practicebowls out the backofthe establishment.

Morwell Bowling Club General Managerm Teena Johnson told the Express she was excited to return.

“It feels amazing. This hasbeen the longest four months of my life,” she said

“It’s absolutely amazing, and I’m glad to welcome back our members.”

With the club almost returning to normal,the club expects to be “righttogo” within 18 months, whichwill includeworks to the functioncentre, which structurally was fine but sustained smoke and heat damage to the interior. Currently, Ms Johnsonhopes to be able to openthe function centre in June 2025

The Morwell Bowling Club is aiming to be able to use the kitchen and the games room next month.

The completion of the new set-up took six weeks, according to Ms Johnson, who also said she was pleased with the crew who helped make the opening possible.

“It took six weeks to get the structure up, fitted out and ready. It’s pretty good,” she said.

“It’spretty impressive. The tradies that all had ahand in it were outstanding. Everyone went above and beyond.”

From the incident to now, Ms Johnson said the

community and members have overwhelmingly supported the business.

On December 20, the Morwell Bowling Club posted on its Facebookpage that it wouldbeopen on Christmas Eve for bowls, coffee, snacks, and chat. By ChristmasEve,the posthad almost 80 comments from followers looking forward to returning.

One user commented that they were blown away by the new structure and looked forward to future visits. Others have mentioned that the photos don’t do justice to the new look.

On opening day, manymembersreturned with plenty of tables in the main marque full of members and regulars fromthe past.Walking in, many memberstoldthe Expressthat not only did they feel at home, but that they couldn’t believe how good the temporary structure was.

Members were also impressed with the turnaround by Ms Johnson and her team.

“The community support has been outstanding. From the day we burnt down to pretty much today (December24) whenweopened our doors. It’s out there. Even when you put apost up on Facebook,” Ms Johnson expressed.

“The community backing has been absolutely amazing. You take for granted what we are and what we are to the community and our members. Butwhensomething like this happens,everyone steps up and helps out.

“Whatmakes the clubisthe members, the staff and everyone else that is here; everybody feels like they are home. That was the main comment of the members coming in.”

Ms Johnson also said that while the club physicallyisn’t the same, thefeeland people that make the club are as great as they always have been.

First look: The new marques at the Morw r ell Bowling Club areprovidingthe club with acafearea. Photograph supplied

Rebuilding: Open and ready for business, the Morwell Bowling Club is ticking off boxes to get things back to normal following August’s horrific fire

Dibs: PatEaton, RonDraeger,SharleneDraeger,Linda Dixonand ColinDixon were firstin line to see the new temporary set upatthe Morwell Bowling Club

Coffees: Morwell Bowling Club’s Kerr y and general manager Teena Johnson are ready to go with coffees and drinks Photographs: KatrinaBrandon unless stated

Community: Locals werehappytobe able tovisit the Morwell Bowling Club on Christmas Eve, withmanysaying they felt liketheywerehome again.

IT has been another big year in local news

Here are some of the stories that made headlines in 2024

January

End of an era

AS of January 1 2024, Gippsland’s hardwood industry was largely gone, with harvesting of timber from native forests on Crown land no longer permitted

The year in news

compromised following increased industrial action

Opal said they were “pleased that we have reached in principle agreement with the AMWU, ETU and UWU in relation to the maintenance Enterprise Agreements at the Maryvale Mill ”

April

Black Saturday arsonist released

THE arsonist responsible for the Black Saturday bushfires was released from prison on Tuesday, April 30

Brendan Sokaluk (now 54-years-old) was released on parole, after serving 14 years of his 17-year, nine-month sentence

His release comes under the condition that he stays 80 kilometres or more away from his former hometown of Churchill Sokaluk was arrested on February 12, 2009, and brought in for questioning at the Morwell Police Station

Uni strike

NATIONAL Teachers Education Union (NTEU) members at Federation University held an all member meeting, where they vowed to join protests at the university’s three major campuses to oppose the ‘Future Fed’ cuts proposal

The Future Fed Program was recently announced in the wake of huge revenue losses - nearly $80 million since 2019

the building is approximately 80 metres by 60 metres,” Morwell FRV captain, Shane Mynard said

with seven social homes nearing completion in Moe

The former Andrews government’s decision to close Victoria’s native forest industry, taken behind closed doors, was seen as the culmination of successive cutbacks in the timber available to industry over the past 50 years

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 federalstate agreements; relentless pressure from green groups; dubious political decisions; the massive fires of the past two decades; and new harvesting techniques

It was understood up to 200 jobs could be lost under the program Staff, students, and the community planned to rally at midday on Wednesday, May 1 at the Churchill campus, following action at the Berwick campus on Tuesday, April 30

June

Nuclear future?

LOY Yang was named one of seven locations for a possible nuclear power station, should the federal Coalition win government

The Coalition said a future federal Coalition government would introduce zero-emissions nuclear energy in Australia and work in partnership with renewable energy and gas as part of a balanced energy mix

February

One decade on

FRIDAY, February 9, 2024 marked the 10th anniversary of the Hazelwood Mine Fire, a disaster the region will never forget

Ten years ago on that day, blistering heat and strong wind combined to create almighty infernos across Victoria in the summer of 2013/14

One particular inferno burned for 45 days, suffocating Morwell and surrounding towns with smoke, causing widespread panic Burning only 400 metres away from some streets of the town, thousands of people fell sick within days as the dangerously toxic smoke entered airways

The people of Morwell were left with little direction from the state government as the smoke blanketed the town

The Hazelwood open-cut mine fire was undoubtedly a disaster in many ways Back to work

AFTER five days without pay out on the grass, Maryvale Mill’s Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) members and Opal Australia Paper came to an agreement in principle

Amid an ugly negation period, AMWU informally accepted Opal’s enterprise agreement offer subject to a formal vote and process

Workers returned to work on Monday, (February 12) night after both parties

September

Carnage and chaos

WIND gusts topping well over 100 kilometres an hour played havoc for Latrobe Valley residents

The sheer ferocity of a storm led to widespread power outages, as emergency crews worked overtime to clear fallen trees, branches and debris

The first of the two severe weather events occurred overnight from Tuesday, August 27 to Wednesday, August 28, as winds swept past the Latrobe Valley and surrounding regions

The government says it will deliver 1300 social and affordable homes across Victoria through the $1 billion Regional Housing Fund, and has announced that of the first 1000 homes, 65 will be built in “Outer Gippsland”, including Latrobe Valley Minister for Housing and Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing visited Moe for the announcement

November

Council sworn in

The second instance was again overnight from Sunday, September 1 to Monday, September 2, which saw Watch and Act warnings across the state, as wind speeds were anticipated up to 130km/h New energy conference

TRARALGON had hosting rights to the third Gippsland New Energy Conference

The two-day conference attracted the best part of 800 people to the region

welcomed a

Protestors were quick to voice their dismay when news came through, gathering outside federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester's office

Councillor suspended

LATROBE City Council removed Melissa Ferguson’s name, photo, and contact details from its website following her one-month suspension for failing to apologise for transphobic social media comments made in 2023

The website left no councillor listed under the ‘South Ward’, which residents and supporters of Cr Ferguson said would affect them negatively, they told the Monday, June 3 council meeting

Ms Ferguson initially decided not to recontest her position on council at the November election, before changing her mind

She went on to lose to Cr Leanne Potter convincingly

July

Northe losses appeal

FORMER Member for Morwell, Russell

Northe lost an application for leave to appeal against his 21-month prison sentence

Northe was sentenced last year for falsifying documents and setting up fake expenses while serving in public office

Lawyers on behalf of Northe attended Victoria’s Court of Appeal to argue the sentence of imprisonment was “excessive”

However, the appeal was refused

Mr Northe walked free in October

Attendees mingled with various dignitaries, which included state and federal politicians and representatives from energy providers, to learn more about renewable energy options as Gippsland prepares to transition to a possible life beyond coal-fired power

Held at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, the centre’s auditorium was packed for opening addresses

Latrobe City Mayor, Darren Howe made opening remarks, before Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio officially opened proceedings

They

Darren Howe, David Barnes, Sharon Gibson, Leanne Potter, Tracie Lund Dale Harriman Steph Morgan Joanne Campbell and Adele Puglsey

FOUR incumbents retained their position on Latrobe City Council, while five fresh faces joined the new nine single-ward structure

October

Lynn sentenced

FORMER Jetstar pilot Gregory Lynn, dubbed as the high country killer, was sentenced to 32 years behind bars for the murder of Carol Clay

The number four carried particular gravitas, as incredibly, that was the number of votes that determined the fates of long-time councillor Graeme Middlemiss, and challenger Steph Morgan in the Yallourn Ward Councillor-elect Morgan won with 2027 first preference votes, ahead of Mr Middlemiss on 2023 - making for a percentage difference of just 0 1, enough to get Ms Morgan over the 50 per cent margin required

Returning to council was Dale Harriman, Sharon Gibson, Tracie Lund and Darren Howe

New faces are: Adele Pugsley, David Barnes, Leanne Potter, Joanne Campbell and Steph Morgan Premier Pesutto?

LIBERAL leader and Traralgon local, John Pesutto edged ahead of Jacinta Allan as preferred Premier

The opposition leader was ahead on 30 per cent to Ms Allan’s 29 in November’s Resolve poll

Mr Pesutto has since lost his leadership, after he was found guilty of defaming Liberal MP, Moira Deeming

August

Bowling Club fire

AN electrical fault was discovered to be the cause of the fire that destroyed the Morwell Bowling Club in the early hours of Tuesday, August 20

Fire investigators believe the fault occurred in the switchboard, which forced more than 60 firefighters consisting of Fire Rescue

Victoria (FRV) personnel and support from neighbouring Country Fire Authority crews to be called to the fire at 12 30am

“On arrival the brigade found that the fire had extended through the roof - and

Lynn, 58, will serve a non-parole period of 24 years Having already served time in prison, Lynn will be 79-years-old when he is eligible for parole

Lynn was accused of the murders of Ms Clay and Russell Hill; however the jury did not find Lynn guilty of the murder of Mr Hill Ms Clay and Mr Hill were killed at their campsite in the Wonnangatta Valley in March 2020 Lynn disposed of their bodies near Dargo Housing boost NEW homes got underway as part of the Big Housing Build project throughout Victoria,

The state government meanwhile reshuffled its cabinet in December, following the resignation of treasurer Tim Pallas Jaclyn Symes replaced Mr Pallas, while Morwell MP Harriett Shing took on the Suburban Rail Loop portfolio

December

New Nats leader

MEMBER for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien was elected unopposed as Leader of the Victorian Nationals

Mr O'Brien took over from Peter Walsh, who advised the party room he would step down “It is the greatest honour to have been elected as Leader of The Nationals,” Mr O’Brien said

Done: Native timber harvesting was brought to a standstill at the start of the year

Time goes fast: This year marked a decade since the Hazelwood Mine Fire

Collab: Minister for Housing and Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing (left) tours one of the new social housing homes in Moe

Leaders: Latrobe City Council

new council after the November election

are;

Decision: One of the most closely watched trials in Victorian history reached a verdict this year, with Greg Lynn sentenced to 32 years behind bars

Crash: A second major storm event swept through the region in September File photographs

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne Madeline Moore

December 30 -January5,2025

party mix to the max Get ready to start 2025 with an extra fiery bang! The New Moon suggests b g transitions are brewing at work But with your ruler Mars in retrograde mode (until February 24) it will take a wh le for changes to man fest, so you’ll have to be patient

Taureans can get sent mental on New Year’s Eve, as you ook back over the highs and lows of the c osing year t’s time to move on to greener and more productive pastures, as the New Moon activates your adventure zone Smart Bulls will get off their bovine beh nds and start p anning an excit ng escape for sometime soon! F nances and uck are linked in 2025, so expect a boost to your bank balance via a promotion, pay rise, gift, bonus or extra bus ness

Under the influence of soc able Mercury and Jupiter you’re in the mood to party on New Year’s Eve So shake out your dancing shoes, shimmy into your favourite party gear, and turn the music up – loud! In 2025, Jupiter boosts confidence and optim sm between January 1 and June 9, especially involving personal projects and self-improvement Then finances and luck are linked, when Jupiter (planet of good fortune) transits through your money zone

Tuesday’s New Moon (at 9 26 am AEDT) revs up your relationship zone So – if you’re attached - t’s time to have a super romantic New Year’s Eve with your sweetheart And if you’re s ngle, you might meet someone spec al as you celebrate the arriva of 2025 From January 1 until June 9, happiness and contentment come though, keeping calm and centred in your cosy Crab cave v a regular med tation, contemp ation and/ or relaxation

Lively Lions are keen to party on New Year’s Eve as you ce ebrate with family, friends and/or col eagues But Mars is reversing through your sign wh ch can ampl fy your negative traits So do your best to keep your bossy Demanding Diva side under control, as you practise humil ty and pat ence Your motto is from singer, songwriter and poet Patti Smith (who was born on December 30, 1946): “If you feel good about who you are inside, t wi l radiate ”

The New Moon (on Tuesday morning, AEDT) is a super time to re-structure a tenuous relationship w th a child, teenager or close fr end Don’t criticise and judge; just isten and learn Later that day, on New Year’s Eve, you’re keen to catch up w th members of your peer group that you haven’t seen for a long time 2025 is the year to strive to get the ratio right between your professional commitments and your personal life Ba ance is the key

With Venus vis ting your entertainment zone, you’re in party mode and may surprise yourself (and others) on New Year’s Eve w th some late-night funky moves on the dancefloor! In 2025, good fortune comes via a friend, colleague or acquaintance from another country With the New Moon in your domestic zone, it’s time to re-evaluate a fam ly relationsh p Establish ng new patterns of behaviour sees the union move to a more satisfy ng level

The New Moon (on New Year’s Eve) ights up your communication and local community zone, so a party at your place (or in the neighbourhood) wou d be the perfect way to celebrate In 2025, you could benefit from a pay rise, inheritance, gift, bumper tax return, divorce sett ement or superannuation payout, as prosperity planet Jupiter transits through your ‘money-from-others’ zone unt l early June Just make sure you spend any windfa l wisely

New Year’s Eve looks live y and sociab e as jov a Jupiter jumps through your relationship zone Catching up w th fam ly and friends wi l put a spring in your step and a smile on your dial In 2025 the planets wi l restructure, broaden and deepen your relationships with loved ones So your mantra is from singer, songwriter and poet Patti Smith (who turns 78 on Monday): “Make your interactions with peop e transformat onal, not just transact onal ”

This New Year’s Eve promises to be an enjoyab e night as you party with family friends and/or work colleagues But resist the urge to get nto an argument or power play over money or possessions Make t a priority to start 2025 in a pos t ve and re axed frame of mind, as philosophica Jupiter ourneys through your da ly rout ne zone Activities like meditation, yoga and journa ing are favoured, as you tap into the goldm ne of Capricorn wisdom with n

With sociable Jupiter energising your entertainment zone, you’re in the mood for bright lights, loud mus c, party food and p enty of dancing on New Year’s Eve But impulsive Mars is reversing through your relationship zone, so you’re also inclined to make insensit ve remarks to over-sensitive loved ones Watch what you say! As wr ter (and b rthday great) Rudyard K pl ng reminds us: “Words are the most powerfu drug used by mankind ”

Tuesday’s New Moon activates your asp rat ons zone, so New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to set ambit ous goals, dream big dreams and visualise a fabu ous future In the first ha f of 2025, Jupiter could br ng good fortune via a family member, and you could also renovate, extend your home, move house or trave overseas Mars is retrograde though, so be patient Your motto for the week is from birthday great J R R Tolkien: “Little by little, one travels far ”

COPYRIGHT Joanne Made ine Moore 2024

Bell Street, Moe

BELL Street, Moe is named after the Bell family of Tanjil South.

They haveaninteresting historywhich tells a great deal about the times in which they lived.

The family originated in Scotland but left there to live in England.

George Bell then decided to move to Tasmania along with Charles and Frederick Brock who had become close friends.

By 1870 they all decided to move to Gippsland around the Sale-Maffra area. It was here where George Bell married CatherineHusseyofSaleand they had five children. Unfortunately Catherine died on the birth of Selina Bell.

In 1880 the family moved to aTanjil South and called their property 'Visiondale'.

The next year, Georgemarried IsabellaDavidson from Sale. She was 22 and taking on the responsibility of four infant children. To cope with bringing up afamily when apartner died, the common solution wastoremarry. George and Isabella went on to have 10 more children, making atotal of 14 children in the family.

This piece doesn’t give details of all the 14 children but will note four of them.

The eldest child was George Jr. He was born in 1873 and farmed in Tasmania as well as serving in the military and in politics. When he was 24-years-old he was member of acompany selected to represent Australia at the DiamondJubilee celebrations of the reign of Queen Victoria. He enlisted for service in the Boer War and rose to the rankofcaptain and was awardedthe Distinguished ServiceOrder.InWorld War 1hewas withthe Australian Light Horse at Gallipoli.Bythe end of the war he had achieved the rank of colonel with a

CMG (Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michaeland St George)award. On his return from WW1 he continued farming in Tasmania. In 1920 he was elected to the federal Parliament as amember of the House of Representatives(19201922 and 1925-1943). He was elected as Speaker of theHouse of Representatives(1934-1940) and was knighted KCMG (KnightsCommander of the Order of St Michael and St George). He died in 1944. His brother, William, was born in 1876 and served with the Victorian Mounted Rifles in the Boer War. He later served under the British government in the Solomon Islands. After 19 yearsin administration he was killed by the chief of anative tribe. Aprofessor of Pacific Studies wrote up his life and work among the natives of the Solomons. Another brother, Frederick, was born in 1888 and enlisted in WW1 and served in an artillery unit butwas tragically killedinactioninthe August campaign at Lone Pine The next brother was Alexander. He was the youngest and born in 1891. As agunnerhetook part in the landing on Gallipoli, was invalided to the UK, rejoined his unit in France and was severely wounded during the Battles of the Somme. When he returned to Australia he studied to become a minister of the Presbyterian Church. During the WW2 he was achaplain in Prisoners of War and Internment CampsinNorthern Victoria and later chaplain at the Alfred HospitalinMelbourne. He also worked in Northern Ireland, Scotland and England including service as chaplain to the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders, stationed at Liverpool, England. Information provided by Moe &District Historical Society.

Noted: AlexanderBellbecame an Anglican minister upon returning from WorldWar 1. Photographs courtesy of the Bellfamily

Great man: George Bell Junior had adistinguishedmilitaryand political career.

The original: George Bell Senior brought his familytoTanjil South, and called hisproperty ‘Visiondale’.

TheGuide

SERGIO PERERA’S DESTINATION NOOSA

SBS Food, Friday, 8.30pm

Sun-soaked Noosamight be best knownfor itspicturesque beaches and rugged hinterland, but lucky visitorswill alsofind the coveted holiday destination on Queensland’s Sunshine Coastalso hasathriving food scene. In this appetite-inducing series, Michelin-trained chef Sergio Perera (pictured)getsthe enviable taskofexploring what tantalising treats the popular region has to offer,fromfreshly caught seafood to artisanal produce from surrounding farms and markets. Joined by local food pioneers who share their expertise, smoothtalking Sergio offers afresh take on classic disheswhile honouring Noosa’s long-held traditions.

Wednesday, January 1

ABC TV (2)

PICK OF THE WEEK

BEYOND PARADISE

ABC TV,Saturday, 7.30pm

While lifegoesonfor the residents of Saint Marie in Death inParadise,someviewers find themselves wondering what happenstothe show’s rotating roster of lead detectives after they depart theisle’s sunnyshores. Look no further:thislong-awaited spin-off series finds out what DI Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall)has been up to since following his heartback to London in 2017.Starting anew lifewithhis now-fiancée Martha (Sally Bretton) in hernot-so-sleepy hometownofShipton Abbott, Devonshire,Goodman hasjust joined the local police force, with his firstcase involvinga rather unusual prime suspect: a17th-centurywitch. It’sastrong startfor this whodunnit withplentyofheart.

SBS (3)

Life after Death:

DI Goodman (Kris Marshall) and Martha (Sally Bretton) return in BeyondParadise

EVERYONE ELSE BURNS

SBSViceland, Monday, 10.40pm

This wickedly funny UK sitcom followsthe trials and tribulations of afamily who arepart of apuritanical Christian sectinManchester TheInbetweeners SimonBirdplays devout patriarch David, whose passion forkeeping hisfamily in line with the scriptureusually ends up in abizarresituation. Thefamily aresteadfastinpreparingfor Armageddonand avoidingeternal damnation, although worldly temptations sometimes get in the way. Season two premieres tonight with adoubleepisode that sees Rachel (Amy James-Kelly pictured) return to thechurchjustasarranged marriageisrestored, leading to some Order-approvedspeed dating. Fleabag’s Sian Clifford joins thecastfor this brilliant return as new member Maude, who’s set her sights on David.

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 News BreakfastLate. 9.30 ALifeInTen Pictures. (PG, R) 10.20 Countdown 50 Years On. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 NYE: Welcome To NYE (R) 1.25 NYE: Calling Country Fireworks. (R) 1.35 NYE:LiveConcert. (PG,R) 4.15 NYE: Countdown To Midnight.(PG,R) 4.30 NYE: Midnight Fireworks. (PG,R) 4.40 NYE: Auld LangSyne. (R) 5.00 Great Australian Stuff.(PG, R)

6.00 ABite To Eat With Alice.

6.30 HardQuiz Kids (PG, R)

7.00 ABCNews

7.30 Spicks And Specks: AusMusic Special. (PG, R) Hosted by Adam Hills.

8.30 Changing Ends. (Return, PG) Peer pressure forces Alan to accept achallenge that leads himinto themurky world of fake IDs.

9.20 Utopia. (PG, R) Afreeway projectisdelayed.

10.15 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 11.15 Summer Love (Ml, R) 12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.35 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 ABite To Eat With Alice. (R)

6am Morning Programs. 10.20 Paddington Station 24/7.(PGal, R) 11.10 KewGardens: Season By Season. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Celebrity Mastermind. (PG, R) 3.00 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (Premiere) 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.40 The Cook Up.(R) 4.10 Robson Green’s Icelandic Adventure. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy!(R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Big FatQuizOfThe Year 2024 Presented by Jimmy Carr

9.05 TheArtist’sView: Queen. (PG, R) Queen’s Roger Taylor and directors David Mallet and Russell Mulcahy reflectontheir music videos.

9.35 TheNight Manager (M, R) Burr and Steadman recruit anew asset.

10.45 Clive Davis: TheSoundtrack Of Our Lives. (Mdl, R) 1.00 Pagan Peak. (Ma) 2.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (PGaln, R) 4.00 Her Majesty’s Cavalry.(R) 4.30 Peer To Peer.(PG,R) 5.00 NHK World English NewsMorning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Food Lover’sGuide. Noon France24English News. 12.30 Hudson &Rex 2.10 QueerSports. 3.05 The Story Of 3.45 BBC News At Ten. 4.15 ABC World News Tonight. 4.40 PBS News. 5.40 The Joy Of PaintingWith Bob Ross. 6.10 SmokeAnd Steel: Secrets Of The Modern World. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 TheMorningShow Summer Series. (PG) 11.30 SevenMorning News. 12.00 MOVIE: TheAmazing Mr.Blunden. (2021, PGhv,R) 2.00 Motorbike Cops (PG, R) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 TheChase. (R) 4.00 SevenNewsAt4 5.00 TheChaseAustralia.

6.00 SevenNews 7.00 Cricket. Big BashLeague. Match 19 Brisbane Heat vMelbourneStars.

10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game. 11.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera (PGa, R) Footage of headline-grabbing moments.

12.00 TheReal Manhunter: The DisappearanceOfMaureen Hale. (Mav,R)Revisits criminal cases.

1.00 Stan Lee’sLucky Man. (MA15+av)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBCToday. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (72, 62)

DR KARL’S HOW THINGS WORK

ABC TV,Tuesday, 8pm

In aseriesthat’snot afraid to ask –and answer–someveryunusual questions, everyone’s favourite science guru, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki (pictured), travelsacrossAustralia stepping behind factorydoors to seehow some of the nation’s bestlovedproducts aremade: from ginger beer to cheese and cricket balls.Kruszelnicki meetsthe people who keep the whole process flowing, from the factoryfloor to the packing lines. Tonight’spremiere seesthe endlessly curious Dr Karl lift thelid to discoverhow recycled toilet paper is made at the Encore toilet paperfactoryinMelbourne. If the Covid-19 pandemic taught us nothing else, it provedjusthow much we Aussies value abog roll

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Today. 9.00 TodayExtraSummer (PG) Highlights from the year in review 10.30 Tennis. United Cup. Day5 Quarter-finaland group stage. 4.30 9News Afternoon 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG,R) Three contestants go head-to-head against amesmerising machine with one lucky participant playingfor the jackpot. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Farm To Fork. (R) 8.00 KeyIngredient. (R) 8.30 Bold. (PGa, R) 9.00 Drew Barrymore. (PGas) 10.00 Judge Judy.(PG,R) 10.30 WheelOfFortune Australia. (s, R) 11.30 Ent.Tonight.(R) 12.00 Farm To Fork. 12.30 Family Feud.(PG) 1.00 Jamie Cooks

6.00 9News.

7.00 Tennis. UnitedCup.Day 5. Quarter-final. From RACArena, Perth. Group stage. Great Britain vAustralia. From KenRosewall Arena, Sydney

2.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 GlobalShop. (R) Home shopping.

3.00 TV Shop: HomeShopping (R)

4.00 Believer’s VoiceOfVictory. (PGa) Religious program.

4.30 Good Chef Hunting. (R) Chef Alejandro Saravia travels Victoria.

5.00 TodayEarly News. Alook at the latest news, sport and weather

5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

9GEM (92, 81)

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 4.15pm Pop PaperCity. 4.25 Nella The Princess Knight. 4.40 Vida TheVet. 4.50 Bluey. 5.00 Peppa Pig. 5.10 Tiddler 5.35 Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 KiyaAnd The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars:Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Roald Dahl’sRevolting Rhymes 8.35 Doctor Who 10.05 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Operation Ouch! 11.00 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Hop.(Premiere) 6.30 Children’s Programs. 8.30 Gigantosaurus. 9.00 LEGO Friends: The NextChapter 9.30 Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens.

9.00

10.00 StorageWars 10.30 American Restoration. 11.00 American Pickers. Noon Pawn Stars. 1.00 Outback Truckers. 3.00 Billy TheExterminator 3.30 Big Shrimpin’. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30

Programs. 9GO! (93, 82) 6am The Glassworker.Continued. (2024,PG, Urdu) 6.50 Shaolin Soccer.(2001, PG, Cantonese) 8.55 Jean De Florette. (1986,PG, French) 11.10 Blow Dry. (2001, M) 12.50pm L.A. Story. (1991, M) 2.40 Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 4.35 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956,PG, German) 6.35 Mary AndThe Witch’s Flower.(2017,PG) 8.30 Monty Python And The Holy Grail.(1975,PG) 10.10 Ava. (2020,MA15+) Midnight Jump,Darling. (2020,M) 1.40 Studs. (2006,M) 3.20 The Cover. (2021, M, Spanish) 5.00 Whisky Galore.(2016,PG)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by GrantDenyer.

6.30 TheProject Alook at the day’snews. 7.30 MOVIE: ForrestGump. (1994,Malv, R) Akind-hearted and simple man recalls the story of his extraordinary life to anyone who will listen to him. TomHanks, Robin Wright,Sally Field. 10.15 MOVIE: Babylon (2022, MA15+dlsv) An ambitious cast of characters strives to stayontop of raucous1920s Hollywood. Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie. 1.45 TheProject (R) 2.40 TheLateShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) 3.30 Home Shopping (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

Thursday, January 2 ABC (2)

6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Great Expectations:Karta The Orang-Utan’s Story. (PG,R) 10.00 Back Roads. (R) 10.30 The Art Of (M, R) 11.00 The Human Revolution. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 MOVIE: Gravity. (2013, Mal, R) 2.30 Wallace And Gromit:AGrand Day Out. (R) 3.00 ABite To Eat. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.05 Great Australian Stuff. (PG, R)

6.00 ABiteToEat With Alice.

6.30 Hard Quiz Kids. (PG, R) HostedbyTom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 Long Lost Family: The Unknown Soldiers. (PG) Hosted by DavinaMcCalland Nicky Campbell.

8.35 Fake Or Fortune? Arshile Gorky (Final, PG) Fiona Bruce and Philip Mouldinvestigatea murky canvas which could be by painter ArshileGorky

9.35 MOVIE: Queen Of TheDesert. (2015,Mls,R)A chronicle of the lifeof Gertrude Bell. Nicole Kidman, James Franco 11.40 Grand Designs: Tiverton. (R) 12.25 Long Lost Family (PG, R)

1.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.45 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 ABiteToEat With Alice. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 KiyaAnd The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou.

6am MorningPrograms. 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7.(PGa, R) 11.05 KewGardens: Season By Season. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Celebrity Mastermind. (PGl, R) 3.00 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.40 The Cook Up.(R) 4.10 Robson Green’s Icelandic Adventure. (PGad, R) 5.05 Jeopardy!(R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 TheMorning Show Summer Series. (PG) 11.30 SevenMorningNews 12.00 MOVIE: As Luck Would

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PGa) Ernie Dingo yarns all thingsfood.

8.30 TheEmerald Isles With Ardal O’Hanlon. (PGa, R) Ardal O’Hanlon continues his journey by venturing to the Aran Islands.

9.30 Daddy Issues. (Mals) Derek hatches aplan for Malcolm to retrieve his belongings from his old family house.

10.35 SBS World NewsLate.

11.05 DNA (Ma)

11.55 Blackout: Tomorrow Is TooLate. (Malv,R)

12.50 Blanca. (MA15+av,R)

2.50 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (PG, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize.(R)

5.00 NHK World EnglishNewsMorning 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe WorldTonight.

6.45 Ben And Holly 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 72 Cutest Animals. 9.50 Doctor Who 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 6.50 Sissi: TheYoung Empress. (1956, PG, German) 8.50 Four Souls Of Coyote (2023,PG) 10.50 Barbarella. (1968,M) 12.40pm Mahana. (2016, M) 2.35 The Glassworker.(2024 PG, Urdu) 4.25 Jean De Florette. (1986,PG, French) 6.40 Swallows And Amazons.(2016, PG) 8.30 Monty Python’s Life Of Brian. (1979,M) 10.15 Rush. (2013,MA15+) 12.30am Late Programs. SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Taste Of TheTerritory 2.30 The CookUp. 3.00 WaabinyTime 3.25 Little JAnd Big Cuz. 3.35 Spartakus. 4.05 Cities Of Gold. 4.35 Motown Magic. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.15 Harlem Globetrotters. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 NITVNews: Summer Yarns. 6.40 Waterworld Africa. 7.30 Going PlacesWith Ernie Dingo 8.30 The Walkers 9.30 MOVIE: Brother (2022, MA15+) 11.35 Late Programs. NITV (34)

6.00 SevenNews. 7.00 Cricket Big Bash League. Match 20 Melbourne Renegades vAdelaide Strikers. From Marvel Stadium, Melbourne. 10.30 Seven’sCricket: TheSpin. An expert panel tackles all the big news and issueswitha deep dive intothe wild worldofcricket

11.15 Pam& Tommy. (MA15+alns) Pamand Tommy resort to increasingly desperate measures to get their property back.

12.15 TheReal Manhunter: The Murder Of Christopher Donovan. (Madv,R)Former police officer Colin Suttonlooks back at the murder of an 18-year-old British man.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBCToday News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise 5am News. The latest news, sportand weather

5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair.

7.30 Taronga:Who’s Who In The Zoo: Carnivore Galore. (PGm) It is time for the chimps’ health checks.

8.30 TheRacket: John McEnroe. (Ml) Documents the story of John McEnroe’s unique history at the Australian Open.

9.40 To Be Advised

10.40 Captivated. (Malsv) Simone decidestolook into Elliott’spast.

11.35 Resident Alien. (Malv)

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 ACurrentAffair (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today

6.00 Deal OrNoDeal. (R) Hosted by GrantDenyer. 6.30 TheProject Thehosts and guest panellists takealookatthe day’snews, events and hot topics. 7.30 MOVIE: Deep Impact. (1998,Mal, R) After acomet is spotted on acollision course with Earth, ateam of astronauts is sent to destroyit. Morgan Freeman, Robert Duvall, TéaLeoni. 9.55 MOVIE: WarOfThe Worlds. (2005,Mv, R) ANew Jersey man triestoprotect his children when the planetisinvadedbyaliens. TomCruise Dakota Fanning, Justin Chatwin. 12.15 TheProject (R)A look at theday’snews. 1.10 TheLateShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by StephenColbert 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBSMornings. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Food Lover’sGuide. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 MOVIE: Sione’s Wedding. (2006,M) 2.20 Bamay. 2.40 Insight 3.40 WorldWatch 5.40 Joy Of Painting 6.10 SmokeAnd Steel: Secrets Of The Modern World. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The CurseOfOak Island Specials. (Return) 10.10 Cars That Built The World. 11.00 Question Team. 11.55 Late Programs. SBS VICELAND (31)

After Lockup 2.30 La Brea. 3.30 Beyblade Burst: Quad Drive. 4.00 Transformers: Prime 4.30 Ninjago: Masters Of Spinjitzu. 4.50 Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens 5.10 LEGO Friends: The Next Chapter 5.30

Friday, January3

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6.00 Tony Armstrong’sExtra-Ordinary Things.(Final, PG, R) 7.00 News. 9.00 News BreakfastLate 9.30 The Princes And The Press. (PG, R) 10.30 The Art Of (PG, R) 11.00 The Human Revolution. (Final, PG,R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Newsreader.(Ml, R) 1.55 The Split Special. (R) 3.00 ABite To Eat. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family (PG, R) 5.00 Great Australian Stuff. (PG, R)

6.00 ABiteToEat With Alice.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG,R) Presented by TomGleeson

7.00 ABC News. Alookatthe topstories of theday 7.30 AGrand RoyalDesign. (R) Alook at the restoration of Dumfries House. 8.25 Murder In Provence. (Mav,R)Aninvestigating judge and hisromantic partner,a criminal psychologist, investigate murders.

9.55 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of TheWorld: Paris. (PG, R) Dame Joanna LumleyexploresParis

10.45 Grand Designs: Strathaven. (PG,R)

11.30 Long Lost Family (PG, R)

12.20 Rage New Music (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage.(PG)

6am MorningPrograms. 10.10 Paddington Station 24/7.(PGal, R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Celebrity Mastermind. (PG, R) 3.00 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.40 The Cook Up.(R) 4.10 Robson Green’s Icelandic Adventure. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy!(R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS WorldNews. 7.30 EveryFamilyHas ASecret:Paula Morrison And RodCordery (PG,R)

8.35 MysteryOfThe Loch Ness Monster. (PG, R) Alook at the Loch Ness monster

9.25 Big BenRestored: The Grand Unveiling (R) Alook at the iconic Big Ben clock tower 10 20 SBS World News Late

10.50 De Gaulle (Mav)

11.50 Kin. (MA15+d, R) 1.45 Miniseries: Too Close. (Mal, R) 2.40 Grayson’s Art Club.(PG, R) 3.30 MakeMeA Dealer.(R) 4.20 Her Majesty’s Cavalry.(PGl, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe WorldTonight.

Robot Wars. 9.50 Doctor Who 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 9.05 Monty Python And The Holy Grail. (1975, PG) 10.45 Monty Python’s Life Of Brian. (1979,M) 12.25pm

6.00 Sunrise. 9.30 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show 10.30 Cricket. FifthTest. Australia v India. Day1.Morningsession.From theSCG 12.30 Test Cricket: TheLunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. Fifth Test.Australia v India. Day 1. Afternoon session 3.10 Test Cricket: TeaBreak 3.30 Cricket. Fifth Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session.

6.00 SevenNews. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League.Match 21 Sydney Sixers vBrisbane Heat. From C.ex Coffs International Stadium, NSW

9.10 Cricket Big BashLeague. Match22. PerthScorchers vSydney Thunder From Optus Stadium, Perth.

12.30 Taken. (Mav,R)The team must find away to stop Ramseybefore hisplan to assassinate asenator starts awar

1.30 Harry’sPractice. (R) Dr Harry Cooper and Dr Katrina Warren present information about animals and petcare

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Three contestants go head to head in atestofbrain power

5.00 NBCToday News and current affairs.

6.00 Today. 9.00 TodayExtraSummer (PG) 11.30 9News Morning 12.00 MOVIE: TheNature Of Romance. (2021, G, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00

6.00 9News

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Tennis. United Cup. Day 8. Quarterfinal. From KenRosewall Arena,Sydney.

11.30 MOVIE: No Reservations (2007, PGal, R) Achef’s life changes after she becomesthe guardian of her late sister’s daughter.Catherine Zeta-Jones, Aaron Eckhart, Abigail Breslin.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 SkippyThe Bush Kangaroo (R) Bank robbers mistakenly place their loot inside achest destined for atreasure hunt in the park.

4.30 Global Shop (R)Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop:HomeShopping. (R)

5.30 Drive TV (R) Alook at the Mazda MX-5

Life After Lockup 2.30 La Brea. 3.30 Beyblade Burst: Quad Drive. 4.00 Transformers: Prime. 4.30 Ninjago:Masters Of Spinjitzu. 4.50 Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens 5.10 LEGO Friends: The

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by GrantDenyer.

6.30 TheProject. Alookatthe day’snews. 7.30 MOVIE: 80 ForBrady (2023, Ml, R) Four lifelong friends set out on an unforgettable journeytosee theirhero TomBrady play in the NFLSuper Bowl Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Sally Field. 9.40 MOVIE: Galaxy Quest. (1999,PGv,R)The cast of asci-fiTVseries, cancelled more than 20 years earlier,is called uponbyrealalienstosavetheir race Tim Allen,Sigourney Weaver,AlanRickman. 11.45 TheProject (R)A look at the day’snews. 12.40 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert (PG) HostedbyStephen Colbert. 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

Saturday, January 4

(Final,

2.10 Wallace And Gromit: A CloseShave. (R) 2.45 Last NightOfThe Proms. (R) 4.10 Joanna Lumley’sGreat Cities Of The World. (PG, R) 5.00 Great Australian Stuff.(PG, R)

6.00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Deliver y: Costa Georgiadis. (PG, R) Julia spends time with Costa Georgiadis.

6.30 Tiddler (R) Animated shortfilm.

7.00 ABCNews. Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 Beyond Paradise. (Premiere, Ma) DI Humphrey Goodman joins the police forceinfiancée Martha’s hometown of Shipton Abbott

8.20 MOVIE: TheFabelmans.

(2022, Malv,R)Inpost-World WarIIArizona, an adolescent boywho wants to be a filmmaker discovers ashattering family secret and explores howthe power of film helps people see the truth. Michelle Williams, GabrielLaBelle, Paul Dano.

10.45 Shetland (Mal, R) Calder reels from awful news.

11.45 Rage (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.

6am MorningPrograms. 9.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (PG, R) 9.10 TheWorld From Above. (R) 10.10 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.00 Along Ireland’sShores. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Best Of Dakar Rally 2024 3.00 Aliquam DiveStories. (PG, R) 4.00 Forgotten Frontlines. (PGa, R) 5.00 Motor Racing.Dakar Rally.Prologue. Highlights.

6.00 GrandTours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (Return, PG)

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland: From TheThree-Lakes Region Through Lavaux To Geneva

8.30 Cotswolds And Beyond With PamAyres: Highclere Castle (R) PamAyres heads to Highclere Castle.

9.20 GreatAustralian Walks With Julia Zemiro: Dorrigo National Park. (PG, R) JuliaZemiro heads to NSW’snorth coast. 10.20 GreatAustralian Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 11.30 Mister8. (Mls,R) 1.45 Love Your Garden (PGa, R) 2.35 MakeMeADealer.(R) 4.15 Her Majesty’sCavalry.(PGal, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANCPhilippinesThe WorldTonight

6.00 NBCToday 7.00 WeekendSunrise. 9.30 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 10.30 Cricket. FifthTest. Australia vIndia. Day 2. Morningsession. 12.30 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. Fifth Test.Australia vIndia. Day 2. Afternoon session. From the SCG. 3.10 Test Cricket: TeaBreak. 3.30 Cricket. Fifth Test. Australia vIndia. Day 2. Late afternoon session. From the SCG.

6.00 SevenNews. 7.00 Horse Racing. Magic Millions Night. 9.00 MOVIE: Life. (2017,MA15+v,R)A team of scientists aboard the International Space Station finds their mission of discovery turned into oneofprimal fearwhen they come across arapidly evolving lifeform on Mars. Ryan Reynolds, JakeGyllenhaal, Rebecca Ferguson.

11.15 Border Security: International. (PGadl)Two brothers are foundwithillicit drugs.

11.45 TheReal Manhunter: The Murder Of Kr ystal Har t. (Madv,R) Revisits the case of Thomas Hughes. 12.45 Travel Oz. (PG,R) Hosted by GregGrainger.

1.30 Harr y’sPractice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic (R)

5.00 My GreekOdyssey (PG, R)

6.00 The

6.00 9News Saturday.

7.00 ACurrent Affair.

7.30 Tennis. United Cup. Day 9. Semi-final From KenRosewall Arena, Sydney.Now in itsthird year of competition, the United Cup is amixed-genderteam event, acting as a lead-up eventtothe Australian Open and held across two citiesinlate December and early January.The venues hosting the event are Perth’s RACArena andSydney’sKen Rosewall Arena, with 18 countries battling it out in around-robin format for thetitle.

11.30 To Be Advised.

2.00 TheIncredible Journey Presents. (PGa) Religiousprogram.

2.30

9GEM (92, 81)

5.30 Tennis. United Cup.Day 9. Semi-finals. 7.30 MOVIE: Ronin. (1998,M) 10.00 MOVIE: Double Impact. (1991,MA15+) 12.10am Late Programs.

Semi-finals. 6.00 YoungSheldon. 7.30 Tennis. Brisbane International. Night 7. Semi-finals. 11.30 MOVIE: 17 Again. (2009, PG) 1.30am The Originals. 3.30 Surfing Aust 4.00 Transformers:Prime.

6.00 MOVIE: Sonic TheHedgehog. (2020,PGv,R)A super-fasthedgehog joinsforceswith asmall-town police officer to stop an evil genius. Jim Carrey,James Marsden 8.10 MOVIE: TheHear tbreakKid. (2007, Mdls, R) Aman who proposed to his girlfriend after only six weeks together seesher true colours after the wedding. Their subsequent honeymoon sees him fall in love with another woman who is holidaying withher family.Ben Stiller, Malin Akerman, Michelle Monaghan. 10.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mal, R) In Brisbane, abystandercalls in acrash in the heartofBrisbane’s CBD involvingamotorcyclist and taxi. 11.45 Ambulance UK. (Madl, R) Crewmates help an elderly patient 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

Sunday, Januar y5

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Secret Science. (PG, R) 10.30 Dr Charles Perkins Oration 2024.(PG, R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline (R) 1.00 ASymphonicOdysseyWithProfessor Brian Cox. (R) 2.30 AGrand Royal Design. (R) 3.25 Long Lost Family:The Unknown Soldiers. (PG,R) 4.30 Dream Gardens. (PG, R) 5.00 Fake Or Fortune? (Final, PG,R)

6am MorningPrograms. 9.00 The World From Above.(PG, R) 10.00 FIFAWorld Cup Classic Matches. 11.30 Along Ireland’s Shores. (R) 12.00 APAC Weekly.(R) 12.30 PBS Washington Week 12.55 Wheelchair Sports. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Plat Du Tour.(PG, R) 3.10 Wonders Of Scotland.(PGa, R) 4.05 Forgotten Frontlines. (PGav,R) 5.00 Motor Racing. DakarRally.Stage1.Highlights

6.00 Toby Price DakarPreview 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Fortress Britain With Alice Rober ts: Halting Hitler (PGa, R) 8.25 Asia’sAncientCivilisations: Japan’s Mighty Tokugawa Shogunate. (PG, R) Presented by Peter Lee. 10.15 Putin And TheWest. (Mav,R) 11.25 Lies, Politic sAnd Democracy (Malvw,R) 1.30 Rise Of The Nazis: Dictators At War. (Ma, R) 2.40 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 3.35 Make Me ADealer. (R) 4.25 Her Majesty’s Cavalry (MA15+l, R) 4.55 Destination FlavourChina Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al JazeeraNews.

6.00 NBCToday 7.00 WeekendSunrise. 9.30 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 10.30 Cricket. FifthTest. Australia vIndia. Day 3. Morning session. 12.30 Test Cricket: The LunchBreak. 1.10 Cricket. Fifth Test.Australia vIndia. Day 3. Afternoon session. From the SCG. 3.10 Test Cricket: TeaBreak. 3.30 Cricket. Fifth Test. Australia vIndia. Day 3. Late afternoon session. From the SCG.

6.00 SevenNews. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 24 Hobart Hurricanesv Adelaide Strikers. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game Post-match coverage of thegamebetween the Hobart Hurricanesand Adelaide Strikers. 11.00 7NEWS Spotlight. (R)The team investigates the growing epidemicof screen addiction amongyoung people.

12.00 MOVIE: House Of Chains. (2022, MA15+av) Acouple imprison their six children. Mena Suvari, Greyston Holt.

2.00 Home Shopping (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)HostedbyGrant Denyer

4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

(R)

6.00 Hello SA.(PG,R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair (R) 7.00 WeekendToday 10.00 GolfBarons (R) 10.30 Fishing Australia 11.00 Maritime Masters: Expedition Antarctica. (PG, R) 12.00 Bondi Vet. (PGm, R) 1.00 MOVIE: Mr Holland’sOpus. (1995,PGl, R) Richard Dreyfuss, Glenne Headly 3.50 David Attenborough’s Green Planet. (R) 5.00 9News FirstAtFive. 5.30 RBT.(PGl)

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 Tennis. United Cup.Day 10.Final From KenRosewall Arena,Sydney 11.30 TheBrokenwood Mysteries. (MA15+ahv) Thelocal scare attraction of the House of Screams becomes the venue for an actual murder.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoiceOfVic tor y. (PGa)Religious program fromKenneth CopelandMinistriesand Eagle Mountain International Church.

4.30 GolfBarons (R)A panel of expertsdiscussesgolf

5.00 TodayEarly News. Alookat thelatestnews, sport and weather 5.30 Today. Thelatestinnews and current affairs.

TEN (10, 5)

6am

6.00 MOVIE: Sonic TheHedgehog 2. (2022, PGalv,R) Dr Robotnik enlists Knuckles the echidna to help search for an emerald with thepowerto destroycivilisations. JimCarrey, James Marsden, Ben Schwartz. 8.25 TheGraham Norton Show. Graham Norton is joined on the couch by RobbieWilliams, Rami Malek, Motsi Mabuse and John Bishop 9.55 MOVIE: Scream (2022, MA15+l) Decades after astreak of brutal murders shocked Woodsboro,a new killer begins targetingagroup of teenagers to unearth secrets from the town’s deadly past.Neve Campbell,Courteney Cox, David Arquette 12.30 Home Shopping

Monday,

January 6

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 News Breakfast Late 9.30 The Soundtrack Of Australia.(Final,R) 10.30 The Art Of (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 12.00 News. 1.00 TomGleeson’s Secrets Of TheAustralian Museum. (PG, R) 2.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.00 ABite To Eat. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs (PG,R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.00 ABiteToEat With Alice.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News

7.30 7.30 Presented by Laura Tingle

8.00 Britain By TheBook. (PG, R) Alook at book and film locations.

8.50 Louis Theroux: Extreme Love: Dementia. (PG, R) Louis Theroux spends time withAmerica’s growing population of dementia sufferers and carers

9.50 Shakespeare:Rise Of AGenius: Ambition And Chaos. (MA15+av,R) Explores thelifeofWilliam Shakespeare. 10.50 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Myster yQueen: Cat Among ThePigeons. (PG, R)

11.50 Grand Designs. (PG, R)

12.40 Long Lost Family (PG, R)

1.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.45 Parkinson In Australia.(Mas, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

6am MorningPrograms. 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.30 Al JazeeraNews Hour. 2.00 SuchWas Life. (R) 2.10 Heritage Rescue. (R) 3.00 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.35 The Cook Up.(R) 4.05 Jeopardy!(R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 MotorRacing. Dakar Rally.Stage 248 Hour.Highlights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 TheHoly Grail Myster y. (Ma, R) Takesa look at the Holy Grail.

8.25 Jimmy Carr ’s ILiterally JustTold You. Jimmy Carrhosts acomedic game showwhere paying attentionpays off 9.20 Inside Sydney Airpor t: Lightning Strike/Hazards. (PGal, R) Engineers assess the damage after lightning strikes an international flight.

10.15 SBSWorld NewsLate

10.45 Clean Sweep (MA15+l) 11.45 Wisting. (Malv,R)

12.40 Faking Hitler (Man, R) 2.30 Grayson’s Art Club.(PG, R) 3.25 Make Me ADealer.(PG, R) 4.15 HerMajesty’s Cavalry.(PGav,R) 4.45 Destination Flavour ChinaBitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

TheReal Stories Of Basketball. 2.00 Scandinavian Star 3.10 WorldWatch. 5.25 Joy Of Painting 5.55 Freddie Flintoff ’s FieldOfDreams Tour.(Premiere) 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats 8.30 The UnBelievable

6am Morning Programs. 7.25 An IdealHusband. (1999, PG) 9.15 ARiver Runs Through It.(1992, PG)

6am Sunrise. 9.30 Pre-Game 10 30 Cricket. Fifth Test.Australia vIndia. Day4.Morning session. (Please note: alternativeschedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 12.30 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. Fifth Test. Australia v India. Day 4. Afternoon. 3.10 Test Cricket: TeaBreak. 3.30 Cricket. FifthTest. Australia v India. Day 4. Late afternoon session.

6.00 SevenNews. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match25. Brisbane Heat vSydney Thunder.From the Gabba, Brisbane 10.30 Big BashLeague Post-Game Post-match coverage of thegame between the Brisbane Heat and Sydney Thunder 11.00 Murder In ASmallTown. (Mav) Theinvestigationtofind apossible serial killerinGibsons continues. 12.00 Satisfac tion. (MA15+ads, R) Neil and Grace endeavour to win back Bastion’s lost investors. Adriana interferes in afamily matter

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBCToday News and current affairs. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. The latest news, sportand weather 5.30 Sunrise. News, sportand weather

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today ExtraSummer (PG) 11.30 9News Morning 12.00 MOVIE: ABridesmaid In Love.(2022, G, R) Tori Anderson,Sean Poague. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 TippingPoint. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 [VIC] Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.30 [VIC] WINNews. (Return)

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 RBT. (PGdl, R) Followsthe activities of police units

8.30 MOVIE: Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of TheCrystal Skull (2008,Mv, R) Indiana Jones is reunited with awoman from hispast when he searches for amysterious crystalskull. Harrison Ford, Shia LaBeouf,Cate Blanchett. 10.55 Miniseries:Love Rat (MA15+lv) Events yield shocking truths. 11.45 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv)

12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30

Today Early News. 5.30 Today

6.00 Deal Or No Deal (R)Contestants compete in ahigh-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win acash prize. 6.30 TheProjec t. Thehosts and guest panellists takealookatthe day’snews, events and hot topics. 7.30 The82nd AnnualGolden Globes. (R) Coverage of the 82ndGolden GlobeAwards. Hosted by Nikki Glaser 10.30 MOVIE: Downsizing (2017,Mdlns, R)A coupledecide to ditchtheir stressed-out lives by shrinking themselves to 12cm tall Matt Damon,Christoph Waltz. 1.10 TheProjec t (R)A look at theday’s news. 2.10 TheLate ShowWithStephen Colber t. (PG)Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 3.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBSMorning s. Morning newsand talk show.

Tuesday, Januar y7

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6.00 ADog’sWorld WithTonyArmstrong.(R) 7.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News Breakfast Late 9.30 Our Brain. (PG, R) 10.30 The Art Of (Ml, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) 2.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.00 ABite To Eat WithAlice. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 ABite To Eat With Alice. (R) 6.30 Hard Quiz (PG, R)

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30

8.00 Dr Karl’sHow Thing sWork: ToiletPaper. (Premiere) Dr Karl discovers how toilet paper is made.

8.30 EatThe Invaders:Rabbit. (Premiere, PG)HostedbyTony Armstrong. 9.00 David Attenborough’s Tasmania (R) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

9.55 Flyways: TheStor yOf Migrator yShorebirds. (R)

10.55 Murder In Provence. (Mav,R)

12.25 Grand Designs.(R) 1.15 Long Lost Family (PG,R) 2.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.45 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

6am MorningPrograms. 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Such WasLife. (PG,R) 2.10 Heritage Rescue. (R) 3.00 The Weekly Football Wrap. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.35 The Cook Up.(R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters AndNumbers. (R) 5.00 MotorRacing. DakarRally.Stage 248Hour.Highlights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell. 6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 Who Do YouThink You Are? Manu Feildel. (PG,R) Manu Feildel explores his roots. 8.35 MOVIE: JamesBlunt:One Brit Wonder (2023,MA15+l, R) Follows James Blunt across Europe duringhis Greatest Hit Tour of 2022. James Blunt, BenedictCumberbatch, Jack Whitehall. 10.25 SBS WorldNewsLate 10.55 Beyond Signs. (Premiere,MA15+a) 11.55 Christian. (MA15+d, R) 2.40 Grayson’s Art Club.(PGl, R) 3.35 Make Me ADealer.(R) 4.25 Peer To Peer.(PG, R)

4.55 Destination Flavour ChinaBitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World EnglishNewsMorning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

6am Sunrise. 9.30 Pre-Game 10.30 Cricket. FifthTest. Australia vIndia. Day 5. Morning session. (Please note: alternativeschedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 12.30 Test Cricket: Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. Fifth Test. Australia vIndia. Day 5. Afternoon session. 3.10 Test Cricket: TeaBreak. 3.30 Cricket. FifthTest. Australia v India. Day 5. Late afternoon session.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Cricket Big Bash League. Match 26 Perth ScorchersvMelbourne Renegades. 10.30 BigBashLeaguePost-Game Post-match coverage of the game between thePerth Scorchers andMelbourne Renegades. 11.00 Lockerbie. (PGav,R)Investigators uncovera keypiece of forensic evidence, afragment of aToshiba radio

12.05 Satisfac tion (MA15+ads, R) Anika takes amind-alteringdrug.

1.05 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBCToday. News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today ExtraSummer (PG) 11.30 9NewsMorning. 12.00 MOVIE: TheMovie Star And The Cowboy.(2023 PGa, R) MacKenzie Porter,Toby Levins. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 TippingPoint. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon 4.30 [VIC] Tipping PointAustralia. (PG, R) 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.30 [VIC] WIN News. 6am Morning Programs. 8.00

6.00 9News.

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R) Thetravel guides headtoMarrakech.

8.30 TheGrand Tour (MA15+l) JeremyClarkson,RichardHammond and James May are challenged to complete ajourney across Namibia.

10.35 Transplant. (MA15+m) ASyrian doctor goestowork in Canada.

11.30 Inside TheSuperbrands: Heinz. (R)

12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.10 GolfBarons (R)

2.30 Our State On APlate. (PG,R)

3.00 TV Shop: HomeShopping (R)

Believer’sVoice Of Vic tor y. (PGa)

ACurrent Affair (R)

Today Early News. 5.30 Today

6.00 Deal Or No Deal (R) Hosted by GrantDenyer. 6.30 TheProjec t. Alook at the day’snews. 7.30 Deal Or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot. (PGdls,R) Hosted by GrantDenyer. 8.30 MOVIE: MeetThe Parents. (2000,Ml,

Super snaps of 2024

Advertising in the Express

gets you

But don’t just take our word for it...

The Range Retirement Village are ong time clients of the Latrobe Valley Express and have always enjoyed a great relationship with Jenny and her teaminthe advertising department .

Theyalwaysgoout of their waytomakesure our company has the best advertising forour business, always lookingfor ways to improve our ads, so we achieve the best results.

We recommendthe LatrobeValleyExpress to anyone looking to promote and advertise their business.

LeighBrown

The Range Retirement Village l g

e

At long last: Aftercountlessmeetings and discussion, construction of newrooms finallygot underway at Traralgon Football-Netball Club in November

Excitement machine: AFLcult heroEddie Betts thrilled students at Newborough East Primar ySchool in August.

Open: Thetime honoured Friendship Games at Newborough/ YallournSoccer Club again demonstratedthe powerofthe world game in September

Rivals: Luis D’Angelo wraps up HarriMcColl during the Round9clash bet ween Traralgon and Morwell in the Gippsland LeagueinJune.The game ended in a draw,and has been dubbed ‘the match of the centur y’ by Express journalistLiam Durkin.

Incredible: MoeRSL unveiled its stunningnew muralonAnzac Day, painted by local ar tist SteveBechaz.

Hollywood factor: Walhalla wastransformed into afilm set for A-lister Liam Neeson in Januar y.

The giftthatkeepsongiving: It wouldn’t be ayear in theValley without the TyersBridgeclosing, as it didinJuly.

Well attended: Hundreds visited this year’s Morwell Rose Garden Festival in November File photographs y

rough E

Business Guide

GIPPSLAND Steel Centrehas been in operation since 1999, providing customersacross the region with the largest range of steel, roofing and accessories With 40 yearsofvaluable industryexperience,Gippsland Steel Centrestaff areableto tailor their services to meet the needs of customers. Count on them to always be prompt, reliable,customer-oriented and to always provide superior products

Being family-owned, Gippsland Steel areproud of their abilitytooffer personalised services to customers, and will makesuretoprovide youwith an option to suit your needs Whether you’dliketopickup your products or have them delivered to your site, theywill gladlyaccommodateyou.

Gippsland Steel Centreis proud to be home to the largest steel product inventoryin Gippsland.

Come to them fortop-quality materials and reliable delivery services.Whether yourequire asmall piece of steel or alot

GIPPSLAND STEELCENTRE

Aruma scratching thesurface of opportunity

FROM treasure hunters to disc jockeys to market moguls and more, the Latrobe Valley’s newest club in town has something for all local people with disability.

Aruma -one of Australia’s largest disability charities and human rights organisations -isbringing Club Aruma to people with adisability who are lookingfor more opportunities to get involvedwith their community.

To celebrate, Aruma hosted an open day at both Morwell and Moe sites on Friday, December 13.

After significant work over the last 12 months to revamp the organisation’s community services model, Club Aruma is the evolution of Aruma’s former social and community participation.

This club empowers local people with adisability to select activitiesand specialinterest groups that resonatewith their preferences, enabling them to connect with peers and explore their interests.

For instance, Club Aruma is supporting local NDIS participants likeJordan and Anthony to enhance skills liketakingchargeoftheir money andlearning how to run abusiness.

As part of the club’s independent money skills program, Aruma’s Morwell teamhas recently started supporting customerstohost amarket stall every Thursday.

Support worker Adam Skilbeck helps run the popular program.

“We support customers to manage their money, puttingaside somesavingsand workingtoa budget,” Mr Skilbeck said.

“We were simulating asupermarket at the club’s hub where customers would get aset amount of pretend money to purchase some grocery items we collectfrom our homes. This morphed into the idea to host amarketstall at Holmes Road Market in Morwell, which we’ve just started doing.”

Several customerswork together to gather donated and newly purchased items to sell at the stall. So far, they’ve made $100 from three stall sessions where they sellarange of items including clothes, jewellery, books and games.

“They take the leadonpurchasing and collecting the items to sell, settingthe prices and serving market customers each week,” he said.

Customer Jordan has taken the lead on managing the books and itemising what’s for sale.

Jordan has taken the lead on receiving money from customers, giving changeand recording sales.

“I like being the boss,” he said.

The open dayshowcased this market stall, alongside other activities including treasure hunting with metal detectors, grooving to some tunes from Gippsland FM presenter and customer Anthony andlistening to the smooth dolce tones of Sally.

Royal recognition for candles made right here in the Valley

By KATRINABRANDON

STARTING abusinessout of passion and away to relax two years ago, Timothy (Tim) Bye’s company, The Gay FarmerCandles,recently won two awards at the Royal Hobart Show.

Mr Bye started as asheep farmer on a16-acre property in Callignee.

It was onlywhenhis niece expressedaninterest in candle making that he decided to try his hand at it.

“My niece makes candles and said that she found it relaxing,” he told the Express

“I needed something relaxing that Icould just relax with doing,and it still keeps my hands busy. I wasn’tgoingtomake it abusiness; Iwas just going to make afew candles here and there for friends, and Ifell in love with it.”

Having spent time in the business, Mr Bye became curious to see if there were awards for his niche. After findingthe candle competitions, he decided to test himself.

place in the scentedcandle division, and then I took out the most outstanding candle expedition. So,I took out the candle display award, which was unbelievable.

“I never thought Iwould get to the point where I would win awards for my candles, but now Ihave won three. Icouldn’t be happier.”

Mr Bye's candles, 'Dunedin Dream' and 'Summer Love', won firstand secondplaceinthe Most Outstanding Candle-Making Exhibit at the 2024 Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania show.

According to Mr Bye, his business's success comes from passion andtryingtokeep all ingredients and packaging local or Australian-made. He also said that going to markets to sell his products has helped create asense of belonging in his business.

“Going out and seeingpeopleactuallyfall in love withthe product wasreassuring that Icould do this,” he said.

“When people say they are absolutely amazing candles, it is like, yes, thisbusiness will work.I just have to really focus on making the candles,

ng or take

The Latrobe alle Express has brought together local employers and employees for generations and it is no different today

People prefer to ork close to home, to save on transport costs, the frustration of travel and to be close to family

Both our printed and digital ne spapers have a highly engaged local audience looking for ne s, sport, local information and jobs every week!

United: Anthony and Sallyare taking on fur ther communityengagement withClubAruma.

Photograph supplied

Honour: Candles made by Callignee farmer TimBye were recognised at the RoyalHobart Show.

from 1st until 21st Jan. 9am-4pm. Sundays from 10.30am. 1000's of sorted books.

Notice to ADVERTISERS and RESPONDENTS

Voicemail introductions advertisements and voice messages may only be submitted by persons 18 years and older. When making contact with people for the first time, it is advisable to meet in apublic place and let amember of your family or atrusted friend know where you will be. We would advise readers and advertisers to exercise caution in giving out personal details. This will be respected by genuine respondents.

Responsibility

PLEASE CHECK YOUR AD

Please check your ad on the first day and bring any errors to theattention of theClassifieds Department immediately The LatrobeValley Express makes everyefforttoavoid errors. We regret that we cannot be responsible forany errors

Position cannot will not be guaranteed.

claims foradjustment of credit must be made within seven days afterbilling date. We reservethe right to revise or restrict any ad we deem objectionable and to change the classification when necessary to conform to the policyo this newspaper In the event an ad is omitted from publication, we assume no liabilityfor such omission.

Door Installer

Jim's

ALDERSON (née Morris), Margaret Ann.

With great sadness we announce the passing of our much-loved sister, aunt, great aunt and friend.

Margaret passed away on Saturday, 21 December 2024 in Nicholson Rehab at LRH. (A special mention to nurses Jason and Annika 'who were fantastic').

Loved and loving wife of John (dec.).

greatly missed. May Judith rest in peace

MASSENA (née Flacco), Elena 'Lina'.

Passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family at LRH on Monday, 23 December 2024.

Aged 92 years

Loved and loving wife of Beniamino (dec.). Devoted Mumma, Nonna and Bisnonna.

MOOLENAAR, Abram. 12/5/1937 -24/12/2024. Passed away peacefully at home. Loved and loving husband of Nancy, and previously, Corrie (dec.) and Elsje. Loving father, father-inlaw, stepfather, Opa, Great-Opa and GreatGreat-Opa to Tom, Bob, Wilma, Angela and their families; to Edward, Philip (dec.) and their families. Also, the van Oosterom family. Forever in our hearts

ALDERSON. AFuneral Service and Committal for Cremation to celebrate the life of Margaret Ann Alderson will be held at the Gippsland Memorial Park Crematorium Rose Chapel, Cemetery Drive Traralgon on FRIDAY (3 January 2025) commencing at 2pm.

SHELBOURNE, Graham Horace. Passed away suddenly at home in Morwell 19 December 2024. Aged 81 years Dearly loved husband of Judy (dec.). Much loved father of Matthew, and Peter (Sandy) (dec.). Son of the late Horace and Joyce Shelbourne, and brother of Maureen. MYRTEZA. The Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Graeme Myrteza, late of Thorpdale, will be held at the Nielsen Funeral Chapel, Korumburra Rd, Warragul on MONDAY (6 January 2025) at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, a donation in memory of Graeme may be made to the Alfred Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the Chapel or to make an

TANIAN, Craig Darren. 4/1/1961 -25/12/2024. Cherished and adoring husband. Passed away peacefully in my arms, with his two dearest friends holding his hands. Iwill love you forever, Iwill miss you for the rest of my life. My soulmate. My rock. My world. Together 46 years Your devoted wife Monica.

DOUCH. The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mr Garry Douch will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway Traralgon on MONDAY (6 January 2025) commencing at 10.30am.

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GIPPSLAND PORTS Request for Expressions of Interest

Gippsland Lakes Ocean AccessDredging Program

Gippsland Ports is seeking proposals from suitably qualified and experienced persons and firms to undertake the Environmental Management Plan Audit

Details may be obtained from www.gippslandports.vic.gov.au

Expressions of interest, detailing personnel and corporate profiles, relevant skills, qualifications and experience should be lodged with Gippsland Ports by 4pm -Friday17th January 2025

The Expressions of Interest (EOI -EMP Audit) Att: David Holding Gippsland Ports 97 Main St, Bairnsdale Vic. 3875

Or alternatively by email to: davidh@gippslandports.vic.gov.au

Loved sister of Ursula and Ian (dec.).

Loved sister-in-law of Ann.

Cherished aunt of Jean, Karin, Ian and Andrew. Special friend of Maureen and Christine. Awonderful person, so loving andkind, What beautiful memories you have left behind. Sharing and caring, always content, Loved and respected wherever you went.

AMMANN, Jill. WATSON, June. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of twin sisters, Jill Ammann who left us 21 November 2024 and June Watson, who passed 13 December 2024. Jill and June will be deeply missed by their loving cousins Lynette French and Ann Faulkner.

CAHILL, Joy. Loved sister-in-law of Bernie and Brian Wolf and much loved aunt of Leanne (dec.), Karen, Janette, Nicole and families. God has youinHis keeping, We have you in our hearts

DOUCH, Garry Maxwell. 7/10/1952 -27/12/2024. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our much loved and adored husband to Greta of 45 years. Father to Kylie and Jaclyn, father-in-law to Mark and Evan and Dar to Emily, Heidi, Gracie and Harry. Aman whodemonstrated so much strength and determination to stay with us for so long, putting his family first right until the end. Agap in our lives that can never be filled, but a lifetime of memories and an extra special person to help guide us from above. Cherished in our hearts forever

JACKSON (Cook)(Martin), Judith Mary. Passed away peacefully at home in Moe on 28 December 2024, 5days short of her 90th birthday. Dearly loved wife of Evan (dec.) and Raymond. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Christine and Peter, Deborah and Vern, Colin and Carol, Diane and Des. Adored nana to all her grand, great-grand and great-great grandchildren. Forever in our hearts For funeral details please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

Rita and Joe. Frank and Carmela, Ben, Daniella and John. Mila, Anna, Jett and Emmy.

Mary.

Ivana and Andrew (dec.), Nicholas, Daniel and Zoie and Victoria.

Giuliana and David, Steph and James, Meggan, Rylie, Connor and Maddy. Mack, Gia and Londyn.

Much loved daughter, sister,

Zia and friend to everyone. Our rock, our mentor, our inspiration With us forever

Ciao Mummina

Reunited with Dadand loved ones

McDONALD, Alan David. 22/9/1958 -19/12/2024.

Alan, you were not only my older brother but also amatewho Ienjoyed spending time with.

You were aloved and loving brother, brother-inlaw and uncle who always had time to chat to family and friends about anything, from the dying art of atrue tap ruckman to the correct way to back fill atrench.

Your ability to mingle and connect with people from all walks of life was amazing to watch and you will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing you. You fought until you had nothing left to give and you're now pain free.

Our sincere condolences to your partner and rock Vanda, daughter Jess, and their families. Rest in peace Al Love always Terry, Angela, Laura, Daniel and their boys Liam and Joel, Bradley and Natalie.

MESSE RE, Domen ico (Dom).

18/3/1929 -22/12/2024. Passed away peacefully, after 10 weeks in hospital, Sunday 22 December 2024. Aged 95 years Loved husband of Filomena (dec.).

Loved father and fatherin-law of Vincenza and Dino, Silvana, and John and Francie.

Loved grandfather and great-grandfather. Finally at peace

The family would like to thank the staff at Nicholson, GEM Ward at LRH for their care.

MITCHELL, Andrew (Roo) Ian. 9/3/1977 -20/12/2024. Age 47 years Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Seona, devoted father to Ella, Grace and Max. Loving son of Ian and Ann. Will be deeply missed by all family and friends. Always in our hearts

MOOLENAAR, Mr Abram. Service No. 3148458

The President, Committee, Staff and members of the Morwell RSL Sub Branch deeply regret the passing of their esteemed Service member and friend, Abram. We offer our sympathy to all his family.

LEST WE FORGET

MYRTEZA, Graeme Sefedin. 29/6/1951 -22/12/2024. Aged 73 years Lov ed broth er and brother-in-law of Kevin and Julie. Cherished uncle of Natalie, Luke and Kristie. Great uncle to Alarna, Rubi and Mia.

Life has many contrasts, as does his art. Alegacy that will live on Graeme and Brett reunited.

MYRTEZA, Graeme Sefedin. 29/6/1951 -22/12/2024. Passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at the West Gippsland Hospital, Warragul. Aged 73 years Dearly loved and loving husband of Wendy for 51 years. Much loved father and father-in-law of Steven and David, Brett (dec.), Corinne and Ranjit. Adored grandfather of Iggy and Theo. Always treasured and remembered

MYRTEZA, Graeme. It was an honour to not only have you as an uncle, but also as agreat mate and someone who I looked up to and had the utmost respect for. Ahole that will never be filled. See you fishing mate! Go Hawks! Luke.

Akind and talented gentleman. Your warmth, generosity and humour brought joy to all that met you. We feel privileged to have known you and call you family. You will be forever loved and greatly missed Kristie, Rubi and Mia.

MYRTEZA, Graeme. The President, Committee and Members of the Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL Sub Branch are deeply saddened by the passing of our valued Ex-Serving Member Graeme. Deepest sympathy to all of the family and friends. LEST WE FORGET

TANIAN, Craig Darren. 4/1/1961 -25/12/2024 Vale Craig Tanian Lovingly remembered by his brother Dane and sister-in-law Wanda. Rest in peace Comrade XX

TANIAN, Craig. Our dear friend and fishing mate. We will miss you so much. All our love to Monica. Wiz, Mero, Ash and Jake

WATSON, June. Passed away 13/12/2024. Loving daughter of Rod and Nell Watson. Loved cousin of John, Dianne, Pauline and Mark Barlow.

WILLIAMS (Allchin), Christina May 'Chris'. 25/10/1948 -24/12/2024. Passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at the West Gippsland Hospital, Warragul. Devoted wife of Bruce for 57 years. Much loved mother of Richard, Tim, Veronica and Matt. Adored Granma of James, Becky, Blake, Grace, Hannah, Cat, Izzy, Michael, Ollie and Archie. Loved andremembered always For Funeral details visit: www.nielsenfunerals.com.au

5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MASSENA. ARequiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mrs Elena Massena will be offered at St Michael's Catholic Church, Church St, Traralgon MONDAY (6 January 2025) commencing at 11.30am.

At the conclusion of Mass, the Funeral will leave for the Traralgon Cemetery, Gippsland Memorial Park, Cemetery Dve, Traralgon.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Palliative Care Unit at LRH would be appreciated. Envelopes available at the service. Elena's service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream visit our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MESSERE. The Funeral of Mr Domenico Messere will arrive at the Hazelwood Cemetery, Brodribb Road, TUESDAY (7 January 2025) for a Graveside Service to commence at 11am.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MITCHELL. AFuneral Service in Andrew's honour will be held at Latrobe Valley Funerals Services, Traralgon on THURSDAY (2nd January 2025) commencing at 1pm. All are welcome to join in celebrating Andrew's life and legacy. This service will be livestreamed. Please visit our website for details: www.latrobevalley funerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MOOLENAAR. The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Abram will take place in the Rose Chapela tGippsland Memorial Park, Cemetery Dve, Traralgon MONDAY (6 January 2025) commencing at 2pm. The ceremony will be livestreamed -link available on our website. www.harwood funeralscom.au

AMemorial Service to celebrate the life of Mr Craig Darren Tanian will be held in the Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Traralgon Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy, Traralgon, WEDNESDAY (8 January 2025) commencing at 11am. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

HARRINGTON, Oscar (Ossie). 31/12/2020. It's been along 4years without you, but we think of you each and every day. Love Desma and family.

TANIAN.

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When you are lost for words

If you see it, then send it

CRIME Stoppers Victoria and Victoria Police arecallingonthe community to share footage of high-risk driving in anew campaign, ‘See It. Share It.’

This road safety initiative uses de-identified footage of drivers behaving badly, to demonstrate dangerous driving behaviour and encourage Victorians to submit their own footagetoCrimeStoppersand help keep roads safe.

Data from the Tran spo rt Acc ident Commission shows that more than 1200 lives have been lost on Victorian roads over the past five years,with295 recordedin2023, the highest number of lives lost on Victorian roads in 15 years.

There has been more than 240 lives lost on Victorian roads in 2024.

With more people installing dashcams or carrying recording devices,Crime Stoppers Victoria Chief Executive,Stella Smith says that every personcan playa role in road safety.

“Each one of us has the powertomake a difference. By reporting whatyou see,you can help prevent tragic incidents before they occur. Even one life lost on our roads is one too many,” she said.

Crime Stoppersencourages the community to share footage through their online platform, which provides the option to remain anonymous. Reports can be completed on amobile or computer.

Publiclysharing footage remainsa rare and significant step for Crime Stoppers.

“We do not take the decision to release footage lightly, but we believe showing real examples of high-risk driving allows the community to see the type of footage that can assist in investigations,” Ms Smith said.

Whetheryou are amotorist, motorcyclist, pedestrian or cyclist –road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have arole to play in reducing road trauma.

Victoria Police Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, GlennWeircautioned that high-risk drivers will be held accountable.

“If you engage in risk taking behaviours on our roads, even if the police don’t always see you, be aware that other people may report you,” he said.

“The community is watching, and it is onlya matter of timebeforeyou facethe consequences.”

The penalties for high-ris kdriving in Victoria can be severe,particularly when drugs or alcohol are involved.

Consequencesmay include loss of licence, having your vehicle impounded, significant fines, or even imprisonment.

For dangerous driving specifically, you can face afine of up to $47,520,have your vehicle impounded for 30 days, or up to two years imprisonment.

“Policecan use footage submitted by the community to investigate dangerous driving, and rest assured –wecan, and frequently do, detect and prosecute offending drivers,” AssistantCommissioner Weir said.

“We make no apologies for holdingthese people to account and removing them from our roads “

This initiative doesnot encourage filming while driving. However,ifyou witness dangerous drivingand it is captured on adashcamor recorded safely, you can upload your footage at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

For emergenciesorlife-threateningsituations, always call 000 immediately.

Ambo’sholding outhope

By TOMHAYES

ACLEAR majority of Ambulance Victoria paramedics and their colleagues have voted in favour of a new enterpriseagreement aimedatimproving their experience at work, while delivering timely high-quality care to the community,Ambulance Victoria Chief Executive, Andrew Crisp AM APM said.

Voting closed at 4pm on Monday, December 16, and of the 78.9 per cent of eligible employees thatvoted, 97.3 per centvoted in favourofthe Ambulance Victoria Enterprise Agreement 2024.

“This newfour-year agreement delivers asignificant package of entitlements and conditions which will allow Ambulance Victoria to cement its position as one of the world’s leading ambulance services,” Mr Crisp said.

“Theagreement will delivertangibleimprovements for our people-from their experience at work and how they are supported, to their salary and career, work-life balance andmobility, and improved equityinaccess to conditions and opportunities.

“Importantly, the agreement recognisesthe need to deliver abetter end-of-shift experience, so more paramedics can finish work on time.”

The new agreement is still required to be reviewed and approved by the Fair Work Commissionbefore it comes into effect.

Key features of the new agreement include:

 Improved end of shift management and protections to reduce incidental overtime to help paramedics finish their shifts on time;

 Annual salary increases for all employees, including an uplift for Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedics that recognises their skills and important role in their operational response;

 Increased incentive payments for paramedics who work unsociable shifts on weekends and nights;

 Increased allowances for paramedics that provide increased flexibility in their location of work and also for paramedics when on call;

 Improved leave entitlements to support employee’s experience at work, such as improved access to take single days off;

 Availability payment for Ambulance Community Officers when available to be called out to duty at their home branch, and;

 Improved recognition for operational

employees required to provide support to another employee as part of astructured learning/development program, such as clinical instructors supporting new paramedics.

“I thankour people for their support, feedback and patience as we have worked through this process. I’d also like to recognise the bargaining parties-includingthe VictorianAmbulance Union (VAU) and the United Workers’ Union (UWU) for their collaborative and constructiveapproachto these negotiations,” Mr Crisp added.

The agreement will be submitted to the Fair Work Commission for approval. Once it has been reviewed and approved, it will become operative seven days after the Fair Work Commission’s approval.

“Ambulance Victorialooks forward to continuing to work closely with our people and the VAU and UWU to implement the new Enterprise Agreement,” Mr Crisp said.

“Ambulance Victoria is committed to delivering aworld-leading ambulance service that is focused on positive patient health outcomes, and the way we connect with each other, our partners and the broader health system.”

Calls for review to look at all areas

THE announcement of areview into Parks Victoria should includeanexamination of the Minister’s poor per forman ce, accord ing to Memberf or Gippsland East, Tim Bull.

Mr Bull, who has long been acriticofwhat he describes as,“thegovernment’s most useless department”, saidthe problemsstem fromthe Minister himself.

“In announcing the review,itwas also said Parks Victoria CEO,Matt Jacksonwillbemoved on,but replacinghim will have littleimpact unless the Ministerhimselfsetsa new agenda and culture within the department,” Mr Bull said.

“Minister (Steve) Dimopoulos signed off on the

rock climbing ban at Mt Arapiles that has caused hugefrictionbetweenFirst Nations peopleand rock climbers, then said one of the reasons for sacking Mr Jackson was because ‘current operations need to be improved to meet community expectations’.

“He has also cut the Parks Victoria budget by $96 million, then says the review will look at ‘how the organisation can better serve the needs of Victorians and help them enjoy the great outdoors’.

Resourcing them properly will be agood start!

“This simply reads like the CEO taking the fall for aMinister who has completely mismanaged his department.”

Mr Bull said he hoped the change would now

result in overdue work being completed locally.

“The fifth anniversary of the fires is approaching, and we stillhave projects like the Cape Conran cabins not started,jetties and day picnic areas around Mallacoota not rebuilt and many tracks and trails not opened,” he said.

“One can only hope the review puts pressure on to get this overdue work done.”

“I want to make clear my criticism of the department is not areflection on the local workforce who generally do avery good job, it is the bureaucracy of the department the Minister has been unable to sort out.”

Regional Roads Victoria vanishing act

REGIONAL Roads Victoria (RRV), the government’s much touted rural arm of VicRoads is no longer, having been swallowed up into anew entity labelled Transport Victoria.

Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull said RRV was only ever established for government propaganda to make it seem like Labor cared about regional roads.

“Theonlynotificationwehad of itsdemise is when it disappeared off signature blocks,” he said.

“RRV wasannounced with much fanfare in 2018 with aclaim that ‘regional Victorians will get the attention they deserve’.

“What aload of hogwash that turned out to be as country roads budgets were cut and our roads deteriorated.”

Shadow Minister for Roads and Road Safety,

Danny O’Brien said the state’s roads have become an appallingmish-mash of potholes, cracks, rutting and uneven surfaces.“Any road engineer will tell you that potholes are asymptom of failure to maintain the roads. With road resealingactivity dropping by two-thirds this year, the situation is likely to only getworse in future,” he said.

“Labor has been ignoring thenecessary preventative maintenance in favour of patch jobs and that means our roads are likely to get worse.

“This government has presided over $41 billion of mega-project cost blow-outs but has left our state roads looking more like goat tracks.”

The state government has committed to significantly improving the conditionoffourmajor roads in Gippsland:

 Hazelwood Road and Jeeralang North Road, Traralgon –Intersection;

 Great Alpine Road between Bruthen and Ensay –Mid-block road safety treatment (additional/widening of lanes and shoulders);

 Great Alpine Road between Ensay and Cobungra –Mid-block road safety treatment (additional/widening of lanes and shoulders), and;

 Wy Yung Road (Bullumwaal Rd) and Howitt Avenue, WyYung –Intersection safety improvements.

The projects are jointlyfunded through the $120 million Victorian Road Safety Program, with fundingsplit evenly between the state and federal governments.

Waiting game: TheCape Conran cabinsare still yettocome to fruition.

Photograph supplied

No needfor speed: VictoriaPolice are cracking down on dangerous driversthis festiveseason. Photograph supplied

Hard to keep up with so much change

COMMENT

BY LIAM DURKIN

AVEGAS wedding nearly lasted longer than John Pesutto’s leadership.

Traralgon Football-Netball Club spent two years in the VFL -the same length of time Pesutto was state leader of the Liberals.

While Pesuttoneverplayed Australian Rules Football for the Maroons (playing the‘other’ football code for Traralgon City and Olympians), both encountered problems at state level.

Somewhat ironically, current Nationals Member forMorwell,Martin Cameron captained Traralgon during their time in the Victorian Football League. Adding to the irony, Cameron’s venture as captain of astate-league team and Pesutto’s leadership of astate political party came and went seemingly in the blink of an eye.

Unlike the Maroons though, whoadmittedly competedagainst very strong opponents during their two-year stintinthe VFL(1996-97), the Liberals only have one opposition -and many would argue it’s been aweak one at that. Yet they’ve lost to that same opponent convincingly at the last three state elections.

Most press releases received by this publication from the Opposition end with the line “Labor can’t manage money”.

Thatmay be so, but it appears the Opposition can’t even manage themselves.

The Liberals have had four changes of leadership at state level in less than three years. There has also been three different Liberal prime ministers in as manyyears,mostlywith knives driven firmly into the last person’s back.

Since the Liberals held power in Victoria under Denis Napthine from 2010 to 2014, they’ve been led by MatthewGuy,Michael O’Brien,Guy again (who rebranded his nameto‘Matt Guy’ in abid to convert voters), Pesutto and now Brad Battin.

Pesutto won the job from Battin two years ago, but only by asinglevote.

Such aresult would indicate Pesutto did not enjoy the total support of Liberal MPs during his time leading the party.

Battin’s huge win in last Friday’s spill (23 votes to four) either confirmed this or showed just how much support for Pesutto had shifted.

Certainly,for aparty that prides itself on free speech, Pesutto’s attemptedsilencing of Moira Deemingfor attending a‘Let WomenSpeak’ rally

wouldn’t have been all that well received by some Liberals.

Unfortunately for Pesutto, the whole saga appears as if it was totally avoidable.

Being alawyerbytrade, Pesuttowouldhave been determined to get his way.Coming from Traralgon, the townrivals say ‘gets everything’, that determination might havebeenengrained from ayoung age.

Dare we sayit: youcan take the boy out of Traralgon…

Conservatives are believed to havesided with Battin within the Liberal party room, as their road to seeking election in 2026 takes another detour.

In order to win elections, the game plan usually sees party’s align with either the centre-right or centre-left. Some interest now abounds to see just howBattin, who has been labelled hard-right by Leader of theHouse, Mary-Anne Thomas, goes about it.

Former federal Defence Minister, Christopher Pyne has warned his old party if they think they can win purely fromthe right,the Liberals will “be in opposition for along time”.

By the same token, there is an undeniable feeling among rank and file voters that if the Liberals can’t win the nextstate election -amida backdrop of aLaborgovernment predicted to be $150 billion in the red by the middle of next year-then they might as well shut up shop.

We may even see Battin ‘in Gippsland’ from time to time. He is the Member for Berwick, and depending how much you want to clutch at straws, Pakenham has been considered Gippsland in the past.

LIBERAL LEADERSHIP

SINCE 2014

Matthew Guy (2014-2018)-Resigned

Michael O’Brien (2018-2021) -Deposed

Matthew Guy (2021-2022) -Resigned

John Pesutto (2022-2024) -Deposed

Brad Battin (2024-)

Toughest laws in countrytofight illegal tobacco trade

TH Etoughest penalties in the countryare coming for the illegal tobacco trade and the criminals who profit from it.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan recently joined Ministerfor Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Melissa Horne and Minister for Police, Anthony Carbines to introduce the Tobacco Amendment (Tobacco Retailer and Wholesaler Licensing Scheme) Bill 2024.

The Bill will create astrict new licensing scheme, putting more boots on the ground and providing more powers to crack down on illicit tobacco and organised crime –with massive consequences for those breaking the law.

The Bill will establish atobacco business licensing scheme –sotobacco can only be sold by licensed retailers.

Alicence is only available for fit and proper personswho pass astrict test,and you can be refused a licence based on your history and known associates

This will help protect legitimate business from getting undercut fromcriminalsyndicates and ban those who have criminal affiliations from having anything to do with this trade.

“This strict licensing scheme will establish a dedicated tobacco regulator to help ensure all businesses are operating within the law,” Ms Horne said.

Victoria Police’s search powers will be beefed up to make it easier and quicker to raid, search and seizeillicit productsfromaretailer suspected of having links to organisedcrime.Police will also play akey role in ensuring the suitability of licensees under the scheme.

There will alsobepowers to imposefurther licence conditions.

Anew tobacco regulatorwillbeestablished, with dedicatedinspectors to hit the streets alongside Victoria Police.

The regulator will administer the licensing scheme and will be responsible for enforcement and complianceoflicences.This includes the power to search shops, suspend licences, andseize illegal items.

Inspectors will also support police with extra intelligence gathering in the fight against organised crime.

If you break these new laws, you’ll face the toughest penalties in Australia.

Any person found to be selling illicit tobacco will face fines of more than $355,000 or up to 15 years

in jail,while businesses will face fines of more than $1.7 million.

These reforms build on the work already underway by Victoria Police to disrupt and deter crime associatedwiththe supply of illicittobacco, as part of their specialist operationTaskforce Lunar.

This work has seen more than80offenders arrested and $37 million worth of cash, vapes and illegal tobacco products seized.

Tougher penalties will come into effect immediately when the Act commences. The roll out of the newlicensing scheme will start from the middle of next year.

Pesutto ousted as leader,apologiestoDeeming

From Page 1

AS for Ms Deeming, her and Mr Pesuttowill have to put their differences aside as they prepare to serve on the backbench together.

Ms Deeming confirmed Mr Pesuttoapologised to her last week, but is still calling on him to “officially retract the defamatory documents”. Nationals leader and Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien wished to pay tribute to his fellow Traralgon-born MP.

“I thank John Pesutto for his service over the past two years,” he said.

“Johnhas been relentlessinhis pursuit of a Labor government that can’t manage money, leaving Victorians paying the price.

“I wish John all the best and lookforward to his

contribution to the Liberal and National Party’s collective effort.

“Now more than ever, The Nationals and Liberals need to offer aunitedalternative to the Labor government that has turned Victoria into anational laughing stock.

“The Nationals will continue to work hard to represent our communities and work alongside our Liberal colleagues to provideVictorians with abettergovernment in November 2026.”

Mr Pesutto will continue in his role as Member for Hawthorn.

Mr Pesutto grew up andwenttoschool in Traralgon, and played soccer for local clubs Olympians and Traralgon City.

Before entering politics, he operated his own legal practice.

Second chance: MoiraDeeming hasbeen welcomed backintothe Liberal partyroom. Photographs supplied

Work goes on: John Pesutto will continue to ser ve theLiberal Party, justnot as leader

Glen enjoying comfy lead in Prem

CRICKET

CLV BY LIAM

DURKIN

GLENGARRY are currently enjoying abetter festive season than most in Cricket Latrobe Valley. TheMagpies situndefeated and atopthe Premier Aladder.

After making 237 on the firstday of the last round before Christmas, the team from Fred King Oval did it easy against Centrals.

The Lions managed only 116 at ApexPark,no match for the bowling of Cameron Graham who took 5/33 and Al Jenkin who snared 3/31.

CentralsweretypicallypatientonDay 2ofRound 8(played Saturday, December 21), batting for 75.1 overs.

However, only Bryce Williamson with 40 and Sam Gray with atrademark41off 139 balls made much impression.

 EX STUDENTS went into the break with an outright boost.

Resuming at 3/128, the Sharks already had first innings pointsinthe bag against Raidersonthe Yinnar Turf.

The visitors batted for another 10 overs,added 51 runs, and declared with alead of 56.

Rick Battista registered abusyhalf-century off 54 balls, while Jackson McMahon scored 35. Raiders’ second dig virtually mirrored their first, bowled out for 124.

LiamMaynard duginfor 47, and Tom Robertson made 28, yet the rest of the card offered little.

Mitch Harriscleaned up with 6/40, along with new ball partner and 200 game veteran Andy Matthews (3/26).

Ex Students had enough time to get maximum points, with Lee Stockdaleand Jimmy Pryde scoring the 69 required when they batted again. Thedependable duo remained unbeaten on 40 and25respectively.

 PHILIP and Phoenix yet again.

Moe chasedthe 204 needed against Toongabbie, and added afew more runs to make sure the books added up.

Resumingat1/44 at Roger ReisOval, RobPhoenix and Andrew Philip puton156 for thesecondwicket to get the Lions within striking distance.

Phoenix very nearlymadeittwo tons against Toongabbie this season, fallingfor 98. Philipmeanwhile played a‘normal’ hand of 84 off 150 rocks.

Lions vice captain Benn Zomer was proactive in the middle, bumping his average up with 35 not out as Moe won convincingly by six wickets.

 MORWELL wasclinical in its dismantling of CATS.

Needing247 at John Black Oval, the home side’s card was punctuated by five of the top six making starts without converting.

The Tigers’ bowlers however hardly let up, with all five used returning economies less than 2.5.

Fayaz Homyoon benefitted the most, taking 4/17, along withMark Cukierwho claimed3/30including the huge wicket of Callum Stewart for aglobe.

Tim Ford took 2/28.

The Premier Aladder at the halfwaymarkofthe seasonreads: Glengarryon39points,ExStudents (34), Morwell (22), Centrals (19), Moe (17), CATS (13), Toongabbie (11), Raiders (8).

Already there is afeeling the Magpies and Sharks are the clear each ways, while the last two spots in finals looms as a‘best of the rest’ race.

 MIRBOO NORTH hadtosettle for first innings points in AGrade.

The Tigers declared at 7/193 after batting34overs on Day 2, before sending Willow Grove back in on the Mercer/McKenzie turf wicket.

Matt Snell showed good players are always good, making 47 after coming in to help the team add some experience.

CaptainBen Heathchipped in with 38, yet it was Iain Allan who provided the fireworks, whacking 72 off 80 balls.

The Wolves shared the wickets. Darcy Walsh claimed 3/19, Seth Dawson 2/5 and Rob Fiddelaers (an unlikely opening bowler) 2/35.

Willow Grove survived in the second innings, gettingto20oversbefore it was clearnoother result could be achieved. Luke Payton clubbed an unbeaten 25 off 16 balls for good measure.

Mirboo North are third at the Christmas break -and that is all they need to be.

 NO Todd no Imps?

Imperials lost outright to Churchill at Andrews Park West.

Not discountingthe effort requiredbythe Cobras to win outright, but just how much Imperials rely on Todd Mann as their strike bowler might have been exposed in recent weeks.

Manniscurrently on the side lines with an injured finger, sustained by (of all things) kicking the footy withhis kids. He has missed the lasttwo Saturday games, whichhave both resultedinlosses for the second-placed Imps.

Adding to that, he didn’t play arecent Tuesday night twenty20 againstChurchill -inwhich

Brendan Mason smoked 143 not out off 66 balls.

Admittedly, Imperials were also without key bat Brett Chapman in their last Saturday game against Churchill, but the warning bellscould still be going off at Catterick Crescent.

Afterfolding for 109 in their firstinnings, Imperials then saw Churchill declare 96 in front.

The second innings was only marginally better, with the visitors making 118.

Dilshan Thilakarathne showed some ticker, seeing off 124 balls to make 33.

The criminallyunderratedChrisWilliams cleaned up with 4/17 off 18 overs, while Cobras captain Ryan Ayres took 2/33.

Churchill needed just 20 to win in their second innings to win outright, and duly did so.

 LATROBE just batted and batted.

The Sharks opted to use their additional 10 overs on Day 2, and finished on 8/231 after 107 overs at

Peter Siddle Oval against Gormandale. SkipperStevenFreshwater dug in, and made an unbeaten 72 off 161 balls.

Wicketswereshared at Tigerland. MattHibbs (2/12), Campbell Peavey (2/27) and TylerReynolds (2/27) all getting multiples.

Possibly demoralised from spending so long in the field, Gormandale was bowled out for 156. Peavey made 41, Cal Polo 34 and Hibbs 23, but their lack of conversion meant they ended up being one partnership short.

Import SamWilsonproved hisworth, taking 5/25, along with youngster Jacob Bloomfield who snared 2/35.

 ROVERS won outright.

Resuming at 3/65 chasing Traralgon West’s 176 at Jack Canavan, the visitors went past the total and then some thanks to unbeaten twin centuries by brothers Ewan and Dougal Williams. Dougal made 106 off 122 balls batting at number six, while Ewan did the business at second drop, finishing on 108.

Their efforts got Rovers to 273 and alead of 97 before declaring four down.

The Eagleswereshot out for just 101second time around, their batsmen hardly any match for Roversveteran Simon Duff, who ripped through and took 5/32 with his off breaks.

Lachlan Patterson cleaned up the top order with 3/17, and Ewan Williams secured adouble-wicket strike with 2/5.

Hayden Kimpton backed up his first innings 67 with32inthe secondinnings, while LukePhillips did well with adetermined 33.

Amazingly, Rovers needed only five runs in their second innings to win outright.

The AGrade ladder at the halfway mark is: Churchill on 40 points, Imperials(35),Mirboo North (26), Rovers (23), Latrobe (22), Gormandale (13), Willow Grove (10), Traralgon West (8). Competition resumes for both divisions on Saturday, January 11.

Siddle adds another feather to farewell cap

CRICKET

By TOM HAYES

MORWELL’S Peter Siddle made his long waited return to the Melbourne Stars lineup, playing against Perth Scorchers in the 2024 Big Bash League.

Taking to Perth Stadium for Round 1, the Stars were thrown into bat first, making arespectable 9/146 from their 20-over allotment, on atricky Western Australian pitch.

Siddle put the pads on to face two deliveries. He didn’t make any runs, but also managed to keep his wicket.

Siddle was straight into the action with the ball, bowling the second over of the innings. He struck immediately, as Keaton Jennings was caught behind by Sam Harper. The wicket was Siddle’s 100thBBL wicket

The Scorchers found success through their middle order, with big runs coming from Cooper Connolly (64runs), Ashton Turner (37*), and Nick Hobson (27*).

Siddle would have another crack as the overs begantoexpire, but instead Turner hit the winning runs off his bowling withalittle under three overs to go

The Stars were back in action just afew days

Local joins Stars roster

CRICKET

AUSTIN Anlezarkhas been named as alocal replacement player for Scott Boland in the Melbourne Stars squad.

Anlezark is replacing Boland while he is on Australian duty in the Test series against India.

Anlezark, fromBriagolong in the SaleMaffra region, is amember of the Stars Academy and took seven wickets in three games in the Top End T20. He has been a part of Australia’s Under 19 squad since the beginning of last year.

“Austinhas shown alot of ability throughout the Cricket Victoria pathway system and has been aplayer we’ve had our eye on for the last couple of years,” Melbourne Stars General Manager, Blair Crouch said.

“He’ll learn alot frombeing around the current group and it’s great to introduce him to the BBL environment this year.”

later, this time hosting Brisbane Heat at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Siddle didn’t make selection this time around, as the Stars fell by eight wickets to the Heat.

The home side posted 6/162 in their innings, and in return, Brisbane’s Jimmy Pierson smacked 72 from 56 balls, hammering seven boundaries on his way to guiding the Heat to victory.

The Stars then travelledtoAdelaide Ovaland again were succumbed -this time by just 15 runs.

Siddle pitched in with 2/21 but acombination of D’Arcy Short (60) and AlexRoss(35) led the Strikers to 6/165.

Sam Harper (48) opened well for the Stars but everyone else came and went. Siddle entered finally making 12 not out with two boundaries.

 MOE’S Nicole Faltum was back representing Victoria, captaining the side even, as Women’s National Cricket League action returned before the new year.

Victoria met South Australia at Junction Oval, as Faltum lost the toss, allowing Jemma Barsby the chancetoelecttobat firstinthe 50-over outing.

The Victorians foundwickets frequently, as after just 13 overs, South Australia were in deep trouble at 5/60. Even just acouple of overs later, the tail was exposed at 6/69.

Despite this, South Australian Courtney Webb remainedatthe crease the entiretime andwas now joined by Barsby.

The two steadiedthe ship,which wasmuch needed,battingtogether for nearly 30 overs, before Barsby was bowled for 61.

Just amatterofovers later, the innings began to close, as Webb was run out shortly after making a ton, out for 110 at nearly 100 per cent.

South Australia finished the innings all out for 278,animpressive tally considering the circumstancesthey were faced with.

Faltum opened the batting with Sophie Reid as the run chase was underway.She lost her partner afterjust six overs, but the two had begun making inroads on the total. Reid made 12, but the pair had the total on 39 after the first wicket.

Faltum and Ella Hayward would have aWebbBarsby type partnership, putting on 69 runs together, before Faltum was caught and bowled by Barsby, shortly after reaching her half century.

Hayward would form multiple partnerships throughout the innings, but her partnerships with Tess Flintoff (65 runs) and Meg Lanning (84 runs) were match winning.

Victoria reached the required total with an over to spare, Hayward still standing on 112 runs. Faltum scored second-best with 58 to her name.

Two days later, each side would be back at it again.

Faltum found luck early this time, winning the toss and electing to bat.

Opening the batting, Faltum and Reid could follow up from their response earlier in the week

significantly again however, Reid exited with just one run to her name and the skipper with 16. Lanning, working on ahigh, finished with a100 strike rate for 89. Alongside Hayward (55) and Rhys McKenna (29) -Victoriastill finished with a respectable total of 241. Faltum would be involved in the first wicket for

Victoria as the field flipped and Ellie Johnston exited with 40. But yet Victoria couldn’t withstand the attack of SouthAustralia this time as runs came aplenty and they crossed the target with 86 balls remaining. Webb (67), Bridget Patterson (35) and Annie O’Neil (32) were just some of the standouts.

Your day: Morwell’sPeter Siddle (right), pictured with MelbourneUnitedbasketballer Matthew Dellavedova,beforecollecting his100th BBL wicket against PerthScorchers. Photograph supplied

Newborough crickethistory in

CRICKET

BY MARK SMITH

CRICKET in Newborough appears to have started in 1943 when the Newborough YouthClubentered the then named Yallourn &District Cricket Association.

Thisteamwas mainly made up of boys who literally had to play against men. They were often beaten by huge margins as there was no BGrade or junior grades at the time.

It appears that in 1948/49 Newborough Cricket Clubentered in thenewly created BGradecompetition of the Yallourn &District CA. In 1950 the Yallourn &District CA changed its name to the Central Gippsland Cricket Association. East Newborough CricketClubwas formed

BOWLS

STRZELECKI NORTH

MIDWEEK PENNANT ROUND 917-Dec-24

DIVISION 1: Traralgon 14 66 Moe 253

Traralgon RSL1262Drouin 461

Warragul 16 70 Morwell Club 052

Trafalgar 14 63 Newborough 255

DIVISION 2: Morwell Club (2) 14 54

Traralgon (2) 251

Yinnar 14 59 Newborough (2) 257

Neerim District 15 74 Trafalgar (2) 151

Drouin (2) 16 70 Morwell 044

DIVISION 3: Traralgon (3) 16 77 Morwell (2) 046

Newborough (3) 16 59 Drouin (3) 040

Churchill 16 85 Yarragon 045

DIVISION 4: Warragul (2)1464Garfield

237

Moe (2) 13 52 Morwell (3) 350

Longwarry1475Traralgon RSL(2) 256

DIVISION 5: YallournNorth 848Traralgon (4) 234

Newborough (4) 940Yinnar (2) 134

Drouin (4) 866Trafalgar (3) 231

DIVISION 6: Neerim District (2) 840

Warragul (3) 234

Churchill (2) 10 54 Traralgon RSL(3) 023

Morwell (4) 848Traralgon (5) 231

Round 9Ladders17/12/2024

Division 1W LD FA DifPts

Trafalgar 18 10 583 481 102116

Traralgon RSL1 720 531 5102195

Traralgon 14 50 526 520 670

Newborough 14 50 507 508 -1 70

Warragul 14 50 510538 -28 68

Drouin 14 50 543 535 864

Morwell Club 13 60 525 563 -38 50

Moe 12 70 491 561 -70 43

Division 2W LD FA Dif Pts

Newborough 28 10 556 443 113118

Drouin 27 20 587 465 122111

Yinnar 16 30 557 496 61 86

Trafalgar 24 50 476531 -55 67

Neerim District 14 50 487 542 -55 62

Morwell Club 24 50 480 566 -86 62

Morwell 12 70 486 543 -57 42

Traralgon 21 80 492 535 -43 28

Division 3W LD FA Dif Pts

Churchill 17 20 557 470 87 100

Newborough 36 30 574475 99 95

Traralgon 35 40 552 473 79 85

Morwell 23 60 515532 -1757

Yarragon 13 60 457 563 -106 50

Drouin 33 60 442 584 -142 45

Division 4W LD FA Dif Pts

Longwarry1 900 609 408 201132

Warragul 26 30 584 459 12596

Traralgon RSL2 450 528 546 -1865

Garfield 13 60 457 564 -107 51

Moe 23 60 457 526 -69 49

Morwell 32 70 442 574-13239

Division 5W LD FA Dif Pts

YallournNorth 19 00 438 260 17883

Drouin 45 31 393 328 65 52

Traralgon 44 50 326 348 -22 41

Yinnar 23 60 332 360 -28 36

Newborough 43 60 311369 -58 29

Trafalgar 32 61 284 419-13529

Division 6W LD FA Dif Pts

Churchill 26 30 367 3016660

Traralgon 56 30 357 309 48 56

Neerim District 24 50 331 326 545

Warragul 34 50 363 331 32 42

Traralgon RSL3 450 322 381 -59 38

Morwell 43 60 309 401-92 29

GOLF

CHURCHILL &MONASH

4Person Ambrose Medal Saturday14th December 2024.

Winners: D. Byers, M. Lugton, L. Anderson

57.5 Nett

in 1951/85 and also entered into the BGrade competition.

Newborough wentuptoAGrade forthe first time in season 1952/53 but did not fare so well and returned to BGrade the following season.

In 1954/55 Newborough and East Newborough remained as separate clubs, but formeda combined team called Monash that played in the AGrade competition while retaining the Newborough and East Newborough names as separate clubs in the lower grades.

This arrangement lasted until the conclusion of the 1959/60 seasonwhen both clubs went their own ways again.

Newboroughwent back up to AGrade in itsown right in 1962/63 for one season and came back again to AGrade in 1965/66, stayinginthe AGrade

RunnersUp: K. Westwood, K. Barnes,A

Jenkins,B.Jenkins 57.875 Nett

DTL: 1. S. Turner,R.King, D. Burridge,M

Brereton 58 Nett, 2. P. Smart, R. Madigan, M. Smith, C. Wilson 58.125 Nett

N.T.P: 3rdJ.McCafferty, 5th D. Byers, 12th P. Smart, 14th M. Ryan

StablefordTuesday17th December 2024.

Winner: S. Caldwell 39 pts

DTL: M. McConville 38 pts

N.T.P: 3rdS.Caldwell, 5th S. Caldwell, 12th

S. Caldwell,14th S. Caldwell

Men’sMonthly Medal Saturday21st December 2024.

MonthlyMedal Winner: G. Corponi 62 Nett

ScratchWinner: R. Madigan79c/b

Putts: C. Gilfillan

AGrade Winner: M. Brereton 67 Nett

BGrade Winner: B. Kilday66Nett

CGrade Winner: G. Corponi 62 Nett

DTL: 1. C. Sterrick63Nett, 2. R. Timbs 67

Nett, 3. R. Madican 68 Nett, 4. J. Soppe 68 Nett, 5. Adam West 69 Nett, 6. G. Harvey69

Nett, 7. T. Bennet 71 Nettc/b 8. J. Thomas

71 Nettc/b

N.T.P: 3rdG.Blizzard, 5th C. Thompson, 12th R. Vesty(ProPin), 14th C. Waring

Target Hole: R. Noordam

StablefordTuesday24th December 2024.

Winner: L. Brent 40 pts

DTL: Joan Clegg 39 pts

N.T.P: 3rdL.Brent, 5th J. Clegg,12th C. Hogbin, 14th J. Clegg

Birdie: M. Hutchinson 14th

MIRBOO NORTH

Tuesday17th December,Stableford.

AGrade:PWoodall(7) 41pts

BGrade: RThompson (26) 42pts

DTL: SBeitz 40, SMcKenzie 39. NTP: 4th GShandley, 6th SMc Kenzie,13th TWhitelaw, 16th DTaylor.

Birdies:13th TWhitelaw, 16th TBradshaw, Saturday21st December,2 Person

Ambrose

AGrade: EWoodall &RKratzat (3.25) 61.75 nett

BGrade: MPayne &D Taylor (8.5) 60.5 nett

DTL: SMills &GRenwick62.75, S Hill-Smith 63.25, D& AWoodall 63.25, T Whitelaw& NBracecamp 64, GShandley& JWhite64.25, J& SWoodall 65.

NTP: 4th TBradshaw, 6th JMcFarlane, 13th PDraper,16th TBaker

Tuesday24th December,Stableford.

AGrade: SBickerton (12) 43pts

BGrade: NWhichello (16) 38pts

CGrade: CJames (21) 40pts

DTL: MSnell, TWhitelaw39, BSkinner 38, GRenwick, SWoodall37c/b

NTP: 4th JRobbins,6th JRobbins,13th T Traill, 16th BSkinner

Birdies: 4th TWhitelaw, JMcFarlane,6th

CJames,Josh Taylor,J Robbins, 16th B Skinner

Saturday28th December,Stableford,

AGrade: SWoodall (7) 38pts

BGrade: JKus (18) 42pts c/b

CGrade: DEvans (19) 40pts c/b

DTL: SHill-Smith42, ALeibe 40, JRobbins 39, JKidd, SEvison 37c/b

NTP: 4th RScurlock, 6th SWoodall, 13th D

Evans, 16th MWoodall, Birdies: 4th RScurlock, PSmart,PDraper 6th JKus,13th DEvans Eagles: GShandley15th.

MOE

Sunday, 15 December 2024 OPEN Sunday 9hole Stableford

competition until the conclusion of the 1985/86 season.

Prior to this, Bulldogs Cricket Club (consisting mainly of Newborough footballers) was formed in 1981 and grew into an AGrade club first entering that competition in 1984/85 and lasting until 1993/94 as an AGrade club before being removed from the AGrade competition against its wishes.

In 1992/93, Newborough returned to AGrade after aseven year existence in the lower grades, then in 1999 Newborough merged with Bulldogs to become the Newborough BulldogsCricket Club. Newborough CricketClub’sfirst home ground wasthe Newborough Recreation Reserve at the eastern end of Rutherglen Road. They then moved to the then new Monash Reserve in 1955. The concrete slabs from the old

SCOREBOARD

Grade AWinners: Moon, Craig (27) 22

Sunday, 15 December 2024

Grade AWinner: Donnison, Terry(11)38

Grade BWinners: Donaldson, Leanne (23) 34 C/B

Grade CWinners: Mead, Anne (35) 45

Place Getters: Stanlake, Helen 37 Wise, Hayden 34 C/B Condon, Jeff 34 C/B

Thursday, 19 December 2024 OPEN

Medley Stableford

Grade AWinners: White, Lockie (7) 39

Grade BWinners: Weir,Charles (16) 40

Grade CWinners: Brien, Graeme (18) 41

Grade DWinners: Heppleston, Ian (26) 38

Place Getters: LEGGO,TOBY39C/B Brereton,Max 38 C/B Powell,Vincent 37 C/B Brien, Kevin37C/B Junker,Peter 37 Stanlake, Christopher 36 C/B Pisa, John 36 C/B Morrow,Brett 36 C/B Shaw, Geoff36 C/B Beveridge,Eric36Dyt, Ricky 35 C/B Hibbs,Steven35C/B Comber,Paul 35 C/B LEGGO,DECLAN 35 C/B Scammell, Mark 35 Jenkins,Brian 34 C/B Griggs,Daryl 34

C/B

Great Score: Max Brereton (Birdie) @4

TOBY LEGGO (Birdie) @14Paul Spiteri (Birdie) @14William Pace (Birdie) @4

Murray Donaldson (Birdie) @14Graeme

Brien (Birdie) @4 Enda Murphy(Birdie) @4 MarkGOULDEN (Birdie) @4 Kaye Middlemiss (Birdie) @4

Nearest to Pin: 4th Kaye Middlemiss 8th Ian Heppleston 14th Murray Donaldson

Saturday, 21 December 2024 MENS

Stableford

Grade AWinners: Johnson, Tony (1) 39

Grade BWinners: Harber,John (14) 40

Grade CWinners: Powell, Vincent (21) 39

Place Getters: Weir,Martin 38 White, Rodney37C/B Grant, Peter37C/B Pickard,Andrew 37 C/BWeir,Charles 37 Babet, Alain 36 Eastaway,Karl36C/B Stansbury, Les 36 C/B Bassman, Jeffrey 36 C/B

Great Score: Tony Johnson (Birdie) @8

John Harber (Birdie) @8 Aaron Bassman (Birdie) @8 KevinO'Farrell (Birdie) @14

Nearest to Pin: 4th Graeme Wilson 8th Martin Weir 14th PeterStephens

Wednesday, 18 December 2024 Twilight Stableford

Grade AWinner: PeterStephens 22 Birdies: 14th -D.Collings

Sunday, 22 December 2024 OPEN Sunday 9hole Stableford

Grade AWinners: Clegg,Jeff(31) 21

Sunday, 22 December 2024 Open Sunday Medley Stableford

Grade AWinners: Nankervis,Brett (9) 41

Grade BWinners: Donnison, Terry(11)39

Grade CWinners: Hodgson, Robert(28) 37

Place Getters: Boorer,Greg38, Veenman, Laurie 37 ,Donaldson, Leanne 36 C/B

Thursday, 26 December 2024 OPEN Medley Stableford

Grade AWinners: Johnson, Charles (9) 40

Grade BWinners: Weir,Charles (14) 43

Grade CWinners: Borg, Cassandra(19)43

Place Getters: Donaldson, Murray 39 C/B, Clarke,Loretta 39, Boorer,Kade 38 C/B, Pickard,Andrew 38 C/B,Bassman, Aaron 38 C/B,Beath, Ken38, Donnison, Terry37 C/B,Dunstan, Craig 37 C/B,Henning,Scott 37 C/B

Great Score: Anton Devent (Birdie) @14, Todd Malone (Birdie) @4 ,Charles Johnson (Birdie) @14, Tony Johnson (Birdie) @4 ,Graham Geisler (Birdie) @8 ,Shannon Borg(Birdie)@4, James Thompson (Birdie) @8 ,TonyJohnson (Birdie) @8 Nearest to Pin: 4th Les Stansbury,8th

nets are still present on the oval today. The club then moved to Burrage Reserve in a shared arrangement with Moe Cricket Club to allow bothclub’s access to aturf wicket. Newborough became the soul tenant of the ground shortly after the turf wicketwas laidatTed Summerton Reserve (Moe’s home ground).

Bulldogs used the NewboroughRecreation Reserve and the Yallourn TAFE Ovalastheir grounds. When the clubs merged, Newborough Rec became Newborough Bulldogs’ secondary hard wicket ground until afew of years ago when the hard wicket was removed.

Editor’s (Liam Durkin) note: Newborough Bulldogs have been in recess since season 2022/23.

James Thompson ,14th BernardHoward

Saturday, 28 December 2024 MENS Stableford

Grade AWinners: Yeomans,Wayne (10) 40

Grade BWinners: Harber,John (13) 41

Grade CWinners: Cunningham, Steve (19) 38

Place Getters: Stansbury, Les 39, Backman, Phil 38 C/B,Brien, Graeme 38 C/B,Hornibrook, Jesse 37 C/B,Stephens

Peter37C/B,Mead, Barry37, Wilson, Graeme 37 C/B,Johnson, Charles 37 Devent, Anton 36 C/B,Donnison, Terry36 C/B

Great Score: Karl Eastaway (Birdie) @14, Charles Johnson (Birdie) @8

Nearest to Pin: 4th Bruce Savige ,8th Charles Johnson ,14th Maurice Papettas

Saturday,28December 2024 WOMEN'S SATURDAY STABLEFORD

Grade AWinners: Donaldson, Leanne (22) 39

Place Getters: Tate,Sandy 35

TRAFALGAR

Tuesday 17/12/2024 -Stableford.Players: 27,Women 3, Men 24

Winner: Glenn Doolan (24)

Runner Up: NormMether (23 c/b)

DTL: Chris Griffin(23), Tony Shearer (22), Steve Klemke(22), Duane Baker (20), Mick Bennet (19c/b)

NTP: Chris Griffin(5)

Thursday: 19/12/2024 -Gentsomes

Players:58,Women18, Men 40

Winners: Aileen McNair,Aija Owen, Chris Griffin, Les Pearce (63)

RunnersUp: Sue DeVries,Olwyn Balfour, Al Gray,GeoffCoulter (61)

DTL: Nola Fordham, Heather Savige,John Kerr,TonyPitt(58), RobDeVries,Rod Brisbane,Wayne Dunn, RayWilliams (56), Sonia Roberts,Vic Hill, MarkJackson, Beth Lansdown (56)

NTP: Nola Fordham, Tony Pitt (11), Helen Keith(13), Lorna Risol, Gavin Patchett(15)

WednesdayWomen's results 18/12/2024: Stableford: 13 players -18holes

Winner: Lorna Risol (22) 42 points

Runner Up: Aileen McNair (34) 40 points

NTP: 11th Charli Killeen, 15th Ange Bayley

DTL: Nola Fordham (40), Jo Baker (39)

Nearest the Pin: 5th BevKeily

Gobblers: 11th Lorna Risol

Coming Events: 8th Jan: Golf resumes 8.30 start (Assemble at 8.15) Stableford

9or18

15th Jan: Stableford9or18 22nd Jan: Stableford9or18 29thJan: Stableford9or19

Friday, December 20th 2024, Open Men’s &Ladies Stableford

AGrade Winner: Alf Jessup 37 pts C/B

BGrade Winner: Dwayne Jenkins 40 pts

CGrade Winner: BrettMorrow 42 pts

DTL's: PeterCooke40, Russ Grant 37, Adrian Jones 36, Greg Boorer 35, Brian

McKenzie 35, Neill Tacey35, Brian Fox 35, Ryan Wilson 35, SteveKlemke 35, Lockie

Cornish 34, Dylan Loprese 34 C/B

Hole in One: 13th:Dylan Spence

Eagle: 14th: Adrian Jones

Birdies: 11th: Greg Evison, Andrew Shearing 13th:Chris Moody 15th:Peter Keenan, Michael Grist, Kallan Fitzclarence

Saturday,December 21st 2024, Stableford

AGrade Winner: AnthonyGould 39 pts

BGrade Winner: Les Ellis 39 pts

CGrade Winner: PeterGriffin 40 pts

DTL’s: RobCusworth-Warner 39, Russ

Grant 38, Glenn Doolan 38, Jeff Hasthorpe 38, Harold McNair 38, Glenn Flowers 38, Akos Kerekes37, Noel Cornish 37,Mark Robinson 37,John Tabuteau 37 C/B

Eagles: 6th: Les Ellis,Nic Blake

NTP’s: 2nd: Nathan Dart 5th: Mark

Robinson 11th:TonyShearer 13th:Bill

Williams 15th:JeffHasthorpe

Tuesday24/12/2024 -Stableford

Players: 24, Women 2, Men 22

Winner: Sue DeVries (22)

Runner Up: Max Pugliese (20 c/b)

DTL: RayWilliams (20), Vic Hill (20), Glenn Doolan (20), MickBennett(20), Anthony Cunningham (20)

NTP: Harold McNair (5)

Thursday 26/12/2024 -Nocompetition

YALLOURN

Ladies Tuesday 10.12.24 9HoleStableford

Div 1: Lorraine Backman (26) 19 pts

Div 2: Sue Caldow(32) 18 pts on c/b Sue Riches

Tuesday17.12.249 Hole Stableford

Div 1: Heather Ware (31) 21 pts

Div 2: Maureen Bishop (49) 21 pts

Thursday19.12.24 Summer 12 Hole Competition.

Div 1: LynMcAlister (18) 29 pts.Div 2 Heather Ware (31) 27 pts.Onc/b Donna Brown.

NTP: 2nd Becky Boers 16th Sue Caldow.BirdieSue Caldow

End of year awards 2024:Count PuttsLola Carter 175fromLyn McAlister 198. MonthlyMedal Aggregate (Best 4) Div 1: Lola Carter r/uBetty Dobson. Div 2: Sue Riches r/u Sue Caldow. GobblersLyn McAlister Total6,fromSue Caldow4Lola Carter 4. Eclectic

Div 1: LynMcAlister r/u Lola Carter Div 2: Sue Caldowr/u DonnaBrown.

PISTOLS

TRARALGON

Mon 9/12/24 Air pistol

DGrade JKonrads 394-250-644. M Peterson 348-208-556.. Mens Junior DGrade FPeterson 359-192-551

Ladies Air CGrade KPeters505-76-581 Wed11/12/24noscores entered Sat14/12/24/Centrefire

DGrade DVanDyke226-219-445. 25 mt pistol DGrade LKlein 380-168-348. KPeters316 Classic pistol DGrade BColbert 236-123-359.

mon 16/12/24 Air pistol

DGrade: VBader 472. LMorris 395-184579. LDePetro221-244-465. Ladies air

DGrade: RMiller 394-183-577 Visitor: PDePetro200. Wed18/12/24 Centrefire

DGrade: MHoward147-254-401. JWest 127-343-470.

25 Mt pistol

CGrade: CBenelli 525-66-591 DGrade: FBorgnine 461-154-605. LMorris 266-254-520. Sat 21/12/24 No scores

Super Whiteready to go at any level

BASKETBALL

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

JACK White has practically done it all at the age of 27.

He is an NBAchampion, had multiple US stops, played for atop-ranked college team, and is now dominating the NBL.

The Melbourne United star was back home re cent ly to hel pa nnou nce FIBA Asia Cup

Qualifying games in Traralgon this February.

Growing up in and around the newly renovated GippslandRegional SportsStadium, formerly Traralgon Basketball Stadium, White wasbeaming to be back where it all started, first playing for St Michael’s in domestic competition 20 years ago.

“Back then Iwasn’t very good but developed alove forthe game pretty early and stuck with it,” he said.

“(I) had plenty of support from friends and family and alot of people that are in this region still involved in the club here in Traralgon that allowed me to follow my dreams and do what Ilove to do.”

Subduing his basketball ambitions early on was lining up for his junior football club on theweekend (as most kids did and do), playingfor Combined Saints in the Traralgon &District Junior Football League,success could have come in any direction he chose.

“Growing up with footy and basketball, Iwas probably better at footy when Iwas younger, but Ialwaysjust had that passion for basketball and wanted to take it as far as Icould,” White said.

Unable to be kept off the court for long stretches of time, White was constantly working on his game and finding ways to improvefrom ayoung age, and began playing senior basketball at just 14-years-old.

“I was more than happy with the five courts we had back then growing up and just couldn’t get me out of here honestly, Iwas training, playing domestic multiple times aweek,reffing (officiating), Iwas pretty much living in this place (GRISS) as ateenager,” White said.

Before venturing off to the AIS (Australian Institute of Sport) in Canberra on scholarship, White was apartofa Big VDivision 1Men’s title with Latrobe City Energyat17-years-old, and was named in the Under 18s Victoria Country squad as an underage player.

Latrobe City Energy was aprevious incarnation of Gippsland United, boding well for White in his next venture overseas. He’s been back to watch a handful of United games recently as well.

“They were abig part of my development, so to come backand sort of watch the club as its evolved and see the stands rolled out… is pretty special even for alocal state basketball game,” he said.

While at the AIS, he attended Lake Ginninderra College, where he and future NBL star Dejan Vasiljevic (Adelaide 36ers) wonthe 2015 Australian School Championships.

All of these young successes added to what was to come next.

White was recruitedtoDukeUniversityback in 2016 -which was already abig deal in itself. While somelocals hadenter ed the co lle ge basketball ranks, none had done it for aschool of that magnitude.

The Bluedevils have been dominant in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) going back decades, becoming one of themost recognisable basketball faculties -and they now housed aTraralgon boy.

White became the first Australian-raised male to donthe famous Duke blue and white (current NBAstar KyrieIrving wasborn in Melbourne but grewupinthe States), which mounted aload of pressure on the three-starrecruitfromthe AIS Under legendarycoach Mike Krzyzewski, White was namedteam captain in his last two years, with

‘Coach K’ oftencommending his leadership and unselfishness that made him abrilliant team-first player.

“He’s one of the easiest kids to coach in my 45 years as acollegiatecoach…he’s agreat competitor, not just agood one,” Krzyzewski said in 2020.

although White was side-lined during their run due to an achilles injury.

Whitewould get his chance ayear later when he earntaspot on the NBA franchise Denver Nuggets summer league team -used in adevelopmental tournament during the NBA offseason.

Whiteclearly showed he belonged and was signed on atwo-way deal that kept him on the Nuggets' official roster for the season, primarily playing for Grand Rapids Gold in the GLeague (reserves). White played 17 games that seasonatthe top level for the Nuggets as they went on to win their first ever championship, which earnt White an NBA ring -only nabbed by six other Australians. Due to his limited play and not featuring during their playoff run, White has beenreluctant to boast about being an NBA champion. He did however, cherish the time he spent in Denver particularly with the unicorn that is Nikola Jokic -fostering a great relationship with the three-time MVP.

“He’s awesome man. My locker in the locker room was between him and Aaron Gordon, so Ispent a lot of time withhim and joke around, he’s got a great personality,” White said of Jokic.

After being cut in the preceding offseasonby his new teamOklahoma CityThunder,White returned hometoUnitedthis season and is having asensational year.

Given he hasn’t featured on the court in either of histwo basketballchips,Whiteisdetermined to seeitthrough to the end and experience those unmatched moments on the floor.

“I felt like Ihad unfinished business in asense winning achampionship and being on the court is something Ireally want to be apart of,” he said.

"I think the group we have, we'vegot alot of guys with great experience, guys who've got resilience to make it throughthe challenges of along season, just got to try and keep everyone healthy and I have no doubt we'll be better from it."

WhileWhite had featured in the Australian side on multiple occasions as ajunior player, it wasn’t until 2022 that he finally wore the green and gold during the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. These upcoming qualifiers, as well as the jolt from playing in front of his hometown fans, will givehim moreofachance at the Boomers next Olympic run in Los Angeles after missing out on Paris this year and the historic 2020 (played in 2021 due to COVID) Bronze Medal.

“(I’m) always trying to get better and work out things that Ican improve on to be apart of these sort of teams and situations,” White said.

“There’s no better feeling, no higher honour than supporting and representing your country at the highestlevel. So, just trying to do everything Ican to put myselfinthosepositions and at the same time that will help me to continue to just improve in general and hopefully advance my professional career.”

White last played five games during the Boomers uninspired 2023 World Cup campaign -finishing 10th.

White also hinted at some talks of returning to the NBAafter adominant season in the GLeague with South Bay Lakers (Los Angeles Lakers) last season earnt him a10-day contract with Memphis Grizzlies in the final weeksofthe 2023-24 NBA season.

“I definitely have aspirations of getting back there and Ifeel like I’m an NBA calibre player, but it’s one thing to say, it’s another thing to go out there and do it and provethatonanightly basis,”hesaid. Off the back of White, local basketballers have leapttothe front with fellow Traralgon native Jade Melbourne in the WNBA and Moe’s Jaz Shelley roaming in the WNBL -while young Traralgon player Will Hamilton has been upstaging everyone for Australia at the recent FIBA Under 15 Oceania Cup.

Being undrafted following his Duke career, White returned to his homeland and signed with United for season 2021. United won the NBL championship,

His time: Traralgon’s Jack Whiteis continuing to stakehis casefor the AustralianBoomers in preparation forthe next WorldCup andOlympics Photograph supplied

Who knewwhatwas to come: A17-year-old Jack Whiteplaying forLatrobe CityEnergy during their 2014 Big VDivision 1titlerun. Photograph supplied

Solid gold: Traralgon’s Jack Whiteis one of sevenAustralians to win an NBAchampionship

BOWLS

BY LIAM DURKIN

NEWBOROUGH Bowling Club is set to go for the annual EnergyAustralia Classic Singles. The time-honoured event has become astaple on the Gippsland bowls calendar,aslocals and professionals battle it out for the title.

Bowlers from across the region, the state, and even interstate will descend on Newborough’s grass greens to compete for the title prize. Ranking points, prizemoney and aplace on the club’shonour boardare all up for grabs across four days of what is expected to be intense bowls action.

Names on the honour boardinclude six-time winner Barrie Lester,and Commonwealth Games athlete Corey Wedlock, who won the Newborough Classic just last year

Lester and Wedlock arereturning to Newborough, as is fellow Commonwealth Games bowler Gary Kelly,who wonbronzerepresenting Northern Ireland at the 2010 Games.

The trio will be in town as partofanentourage arranged by Lester,who combines playing bowls with bowls business, bringing some of the biggest names in the game to countrytowns.

Newborough Bowls Club is hosting alegends night on Tuesday, January7featuring Lester and Co, together with alucky localchosen in what promises to be an entertaining evening following the day’splay

Newborough has already been ahive of activity, with the club also holding awarm-up event to the Classic last Sunday.This event attracted afield close to 50 players, including Tasmanian young gun Josh Walker-Davis, currently the Number 2 ranked bowler in Australia.

Past winners of the Classic looking to add to their cabinet include Neville Brown, Ray Jansen and Tony Schiavello, who areall competing in the 2025 instalment.

The club has reported verystrong entries for the 2025 Classic, noting ahefty waitlist for spaces in each of the events.

Prominent local bowlers will look to test themselves, and see just how they farecoming up against some of the best that can bowl.

The local Newborough club is well represented, with nine players entered, while Moe, Morwell and Traralgon bowls clubs also have players taking part.

BOWLS

STRZELECKI NORTH

MIDWEEK PENNANT

BY MICHAEL HOLROYD

THE last roundofMidweek Pennant bowls beforeChristmas(played Tuesday, December 17) was played in tricky and windy conditions that led to plenty of interesting matches.

In Division 1, Traralgon RSL repeated their efforts from Round 2with another thrilling one shot victoryover Drouin.

Dave Hodson and his rink of Margaret Morley, Titch Horeand GarryTrewin carried the day for the RSL, winning 25 to 14 to counter the Drouin winning rinks of Graeme Aubrey (20-16) and Les Firth (27-21).

Trafalgar completed the double over Newborough by eight shots with Ian Miles and his rink of Pat Tatterson, Noel Rubenstein and Matt Ogilvie winning 23-12 and Matt Schreyer winning 25-18, while Ryan Marston won 25-15 for Newborough.

Warragul reversed their early season result with

Bowls has enjoyed arenaissance in recent years, highlighted by the number of young people taking up the sport.

That theme is continuing at the Classic, and Boolarra’sJoelene Laukens, YallournNorth’sTim Phillips and Stratford’sPaulNichols (representing Dandenong) loom as players to keep an eye on now and into the future.

Laukens has led the way for women in local bowls, while Philips has shown thereissporting life after football, having enjoyed astellar career with YallournYallournNorth Football-Netball Club in his younger days beforeturning to bowls. Spectators areencouraged to head along to Newborough Bowling Club next week to catch all the action from 9am.

Newborough Bowling Club, 6-9 January 2025

All to play for at classic singles

Locals in action

 NEWBOROUGH BOWLS CLUB

Jo Gibcus

Trevor Kennedy

Rod Lewis

Ryan Marston

AlbertVan Stekelenburg

Danny VanZuylen

Wayne Arnold

Josh Kennedy

John Wasiukiewicz.

 MOE

BarryHawkett

Jayde Leech

Steve Pallot

John Harvey

Flynn Pallot

 MORWELL

Alex Muirhead Jr

 TRARALGON

Nick Turnbull

Vin McIlwain

 TRAFALGAR

Chris Bortignon

David Cook

 BOOLARRA

Joelene Laukens

 YALLOURN NORTH LOCAL

Tim Phillips (playing for Clayton)

Champs prelude to the main event

all rinks up over Morwell Club, winning by 18 shots with the best rink Peter Gallasch and his team of Ken Landman, Lynda Morrison and Graeme Davis winning 22-11. Margaret Ratcliffe won 26-22 and RobertRenn 22-19.

Traralgon had a13shot victoryover Moe with James Scullin and his rink of Di Ricards, Bill Munday and LynMoffat winning 27-17. Kathy Smiles won 23-15, while Jim Lawrence won 21-16 for Moe.

n IN Division 2, unbeaten top team Newborough (2) wereupset by Yinnar who won by two shots despite Ed Whelan and his rink of Michael Holroyd, Denise Ryan and Joan Goldie winning 24-7.

Yinnar had winners in Jenny Jones (24-16) and Jenni Harris (28-17).

Neerim District at home turned the tables on Trafalgar (2) with a23shot victory. Karren

Sheers and her rink of Heather Guppy,Kay Cousins and Chris Hogan won 29-10 and Julie Adams won 24-20 whilst Pat Fraser-Aurisch drew 21-all with Wayne Hurst. Morwell Club (2) repeated their win at Traralgon

(2), with Janine McCowan and her rink of Harry Wright, Barbara Lewis and Sandy Sinnott winning 25-18 and Betty Burridge winning 15-14, while for Traralgon (2), May Cross won 19-14. Drouin (2) won all rinks against Morwell, winning by 26 shots with AndreDeWaele and his rink of Ashley Rees, Alex Miller and LynJeffrey winning 24-12. Brian Thorpe won 23-18 and Rudy Kerkvliet 23-14.

n IN Division 3, Newborough (3), with Len Middling and his rink of Graham Cocks, Albert VanStekelenburg and Ann-MaryRyan won 23-9. Peter Policha (18-17) and Iain Preston (18-14) defeated Drouin (3) by 19 shots. Traralgon (3), with Ian Wills and his rink of Barbara Baker,Gavin Malane and Marg Hansen winning 30-13 defeated Morwell (2) by 31 shots. Churchill had a31shot victoryover Yarragon, with Chris Thomas and his rink of Ray Ancilleri, Herb Kennedy and David Moir winning 31-13. David Patience won 28-17and Craig Flanigan 26-15.

n IN Division 4, Warragul won by 27 shots over Garfield with Greg Mitchell and his rink of Bernie

McIntosh, RobertHarris and Glynis Mitchell winning 22-5.

Longwarryhad another strong win against Traralgon RSL (2), with Trevor Kitchin and his rink of Colleen Butterworth, Sharon Twiteand Ken White winning 34-17. Moe (2) defeated Morwell (3) with Chris O’Reilly and her rink of Joe Balzan, Rudolf Smogavec and GarryEvans winning 24-12.

n IN Division 5, Newborough (4) defeated Yinnar (2) by six shots. Drouin (4) had abig win against Trafalgar (3), with Peter Phillips and his rink of Wilma Rees, Bob Lowrie and Marie McDonald winning 47-10. YallournNorth defeated Traralgon (4) by 14 shots.

n IN Division 6, Neerim District (2) defeated Warragul (3), Morwell (4) defeated Traralgon

and Churchill (2) defeated Traralgon RSL

Midweek Pennant resumes Tuesday,January 14.

The Champion on Champions Singles event will be held at Newborough Bowling Club this weekend (January4-5, 2025).

(5)

(3).

At your doorstep: Patrons cansee some highqualitybowls in their ownbackyardduring the Classic Singles

Gun: Six time EnergyAustralia Classic Singleswinner Barrie Lester File photographs

On stage: International bowlersCorey Wedlock andGar yKellyare returning to Newborough Bowling Club forthe Classic Singles

MONDAY, JANUARY6

AshleyBeck (Middle Park)

Michael Better (Paynesville)

Daniel Carroll (Whittlesea)

PeterChard (Karingal)

RichardChetland (Yarragon)

MatthewClark (Croydon)

HennyCortenbach (Mooroolbark)

Philip Crowder (Stratford)

Graham Everett (Parkdale)

Leonie Flynn (Stratford)

Paul Gallagher (West Sale)

Jo Gibcus (Newborough)

Barry Hawkett (Moe)

RayJansen (Montmerency)

Trevor Kennedy (Newborough)

Ella Kiss (Paynesville)

Simon Kiss (Paynesville)

George Lambos (Paynesville)

Joelene Laukens (Boolarra)

JaydeLeech (Moe)

RodLewis (Newborough)

Vince Mancarella (Drouin)

David Mann (Clayton)

Ryan Marston (Newborough)

Vince Micelli (Berwick)

Brendan Millar (Craigieburn)

Daniel Millar (Whittlesea)

Dylan Morrison (Dandenong Club)

JanMorton (Stratford)

AlexMuirhead Jr (Morwell)

Chris Owen (PortMelbourne)

StevePallot (Moe)

MarkPetty (Dandenong Club)

Frank Phillips (City Frankston)

Tim Phillips (Clayton)

Tony Schiavello (Bundoora)

Denise Silver (Wonthaggi)

David Smith (Warragul)

Frank Stake (Sale)

Lynne Thomas (Warragul)

JeffThompson (Dandenong Club)

NickTurnbull (Traralgon)

Martin VanElste (HowittPark)

2025 Player List

Champ: Corey WedlockisreturningtoNewboroughBowling Club to defend his Classic Singles title. File photograph

AlbertVan Stekelenburg (Newborough)

DannyVan Zuylen (Newborough)

Chris Ward (Ferntree Gully)

Paul Wootten (Ferntree Gully)

TUESDAYJANUARY7

AndyAlexandrou (Karingal)

Wayne Arnold (Newborough)

Samantha Atkinson (Dandenong Club)

Chris Bortignon (Trafalgar)

MarkBradley(Beaumaris)

Neville Brown (Pakenham)

Tony Buckingham (Frankston)

Simon Cannington (Melbourne)

David Cook (Trafalgar)

BradleyCooke (Middle Park)

James Cousins (City Melbourne)

Andrew Dalli (Mitcham)

RonDalton (Mulgrave)

Cam Davison (Upwey-Tecoma)

Daniel Dimery (Middle Park)

PeterDixon (Mordialloc)

MickGardner (Whittlesea)

John Harvey (Moe)

Greg Kelly (Warilla NSW)

Josh Kennedy (Newborough)

LaceyKiss (Paynesville)

Dean Kuran (Middle Park)

GaryLasky (Middle Park)

BarrieLester (Broadbeach QLD)

BradleyMarron (Bendigo)

Wayne Martin (Whittlesea)

Vin McIlwain (Traralgon)

George Michaels (Elwood

Elsternwick Brighton)

Paul Murphy (Clayton)

Paul Nichols (Dandenong Club)

Flynn Pallot (Moe)

John Parker (Mitcham)

Wayne Parks (Club Tweed QLD)

Milan Prosenica (Clayton)

TommyRistic (Ringwood)

Ben Sail (Middle Park)

Dennis Throup (Drouin)

GeoffVan Vugt (Pakenham)

TomVlahos (Joondalup WA)

John Wasiukiewicz (Newborough)

Bob Watt (Craigieburn)

Chris Watt (Whittlesea)

Corey Wedlock (Warilla NSW)

John Westerlow (Kandanga QLD)

Sue Young (Clayton)

Nathan Zeeno (Middle Park)

Energy Australia Classic Singles past winners

1998 Neville Brown (Drouin) 1999 Ray Jansen (Kew Heights, VIC) 20 00 Brian Baldwin (Musgrave Hill, QLD) 20 01 Don Peoples (Birrong, NSW)

20 02 Brian Baldwin (Musgrave Hill, QLD)

20 03 Brian Baldwin (Musgrave Hill, Q;D)

20 04 Ian Caines (Moe)

20 05 Rex Johnson (St Johns Park, NSW)

20

20

20

BreWilkie (Helensvale, QLD)

Barrie Lester (Melbourne, VIC)

Shane Globits (Helensvale, QLD)

20 09 Barrie Lester (Moonee Ponds, VIC)

2010 Barrie Lester (Moonee Ponds, VIC)

2011 Steve Glasson (St Johns Park, NSW)

Schedule

 VENUE

Newborough Bowling Club (Corner of Monash &Coach Road, Newborough).

 DATES

Monday,January 6- Thursday,January 9, 2025.

 EVENT TIME

9am (Duration: 8hours per day). Club facilities open from 10am everyday

 PROGRAM

Up to 96 bowlers to compete over four days.

 JAN6-7

48 players participate in 16 sections of three players, with the section winner continuing to the knockout play on January8

2012 Barrie Lester (Moonee Ponds, VIC)

2013 Charlie Ward (Frankston RSL, VIC)

2014 Tony Schiavello (Bundoora RSL, VIC)

2015 Brendon Baker (Kurri Kurri, NSW)

2016 Chris Le Lievre(Glenroy, VIC)

2017 Barrie Lester (Mulgrave, VIC)

2018 Dylan Fisher (Clayton, VIC)

2019 Barrie Lester (Melbourne, VIC)

2020 Nathan Bush (EasternPark, VIC)

2021 Thor Shannon (Brighton, VIC)

2022 Rohan Dennis (Merrylands, NSW)

2023 Colin Veenendaal (Mitcham, VIC)

2024 Corey Wedlock (Warilla NSW)

 JAN8 32 section winners play three rounds of knockout competition.

 JAN9 Semi-finals and final.

 SEMI-FINALS Thursday,January 9(am).

 FINAL Thursday,January 9(pm).

 SURFACE Grass.

 CODES

Bowl Australia rules and Bowls Victoria dress code. Final 16 players receiveranking points.

 PRIZE MONEY Winner -$3500, runner-up -$1500. (plus ranking points).