Mornington News 10 August 2021 by Mornington Peninsula News Group

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‘Champion’ for small business

Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au

Police want your vision MORNINGTON police have renewed calls for residents to provide details of their security cameras so they can be used to investigate crimes. Residents with cameras covering driveways, front yards, streets, rear laneways – and even doorbells that activate when pressed – are being asked to allow police to add their details to a secure database. Senior Sergeant Paul Edwards said a strong victim-centric focus on policing meant they could “leverage off the cameras to improve our response, add to our crime prevention options and assist in solving crime on the Mornington Peninsula”. (“Police focusing on crime” The News 29/3/21.) “By working with our community and building

Tuesday 10 August 2021

sustainable relationships to enhance our ability to solve and prevent crime, we can reduce harm to the community,” he said. Senior Sergeant Edwards said details of where the private CCTV cameras were would not be publicly available. “When a crime occurs, police can refer to the database to see if there is any CCTV in and around the location of the offence,” he said. Senior Sergeant Edwards said all police needed was a resident’s name, address, contact number, camera location and how long footage is stored. Residents willing to participate can call Mornington police on 5970 4900 or email: mornington.uni@police.vic.gov.au Stephen Taylor

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire has appointed a “small business champion”. As well as his new title, Cr Anthony Marsh was successful at the 27 July meeting in having the council reaffirm its commitment to the Small Business Friendly Council Charter and acknowledging that businesses are a “vital part” of the peninsula’s community. Cr Kerri McCafferty nominated Cr Marsh as the small business champion, saying he had undertaken a “high level of consultation” to “develop” a notice of motion calling for small business support and a champion. “He has consistently pushed for improved outcomes for small business since being elected and given that he was the councillor that actually initiated the [motion] he is an obvious choice,” Cr McCafferty said. Cr Marsh, who has an MBA, a small business background and is spending $8000 of his councillor allowance on a directors’ course, was successful in moving that a communications plan be developed and endorsed by the council by September to ensure its commitment to the charter, and local businesses is made known to the community. Under the plan businesses will be able engage with and provide feedback to the council, with an officers’ report by the end of the year identifying how the council can better support businesses and business owners. The plan will address support and assistance for businesses in planning and planning applications and improve economic development. Shire officers have also been told to prepare a new economic development strategy, in consultation with councillors and key community groups, by June 2022. Cr Marsh said the Small Business Friendly Council Charter aimed to “put small businesses back on the agenda and to accelerate actions to

create an enabling environment for businesses of all types to start, grow and thrive”. Economic development team leader Anita Buczkowsky said 95 per cent of businesses on the peninsula employed less than five people and many “have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdowns”. “This further reaffirmation [and] prioritisation in council’s planning process and development of a new economic development strategy, will raise business confidence,” Ms Buczkowsky said. The council’s planning services department already offered alternatives for customers to obtain planning advice and direction, including telephone, webchat, pre-application meetings and written general inquiries. Questions over Cr Marsh’s “qualifications” to be the shire’s “small business champion” exposed tensions in the chamber, with Crs David Gill and Susan Bissinger saying it would be better to appoint “someone from outside”. Cr Antonella Celi – who also thought an outsider would make a better choice – accused her colleagues of playing “personality politics”. Cr Paul Mercurio said things were “getting a bit heated” and backed Cr Marsh’s appointment. “The fact that [he] is interested means we should give him a shot. If someone else had brought it to us I would say the same thing,” he said. Cr Marsh said it was unfortunate that tensions “are targeted at me”. “I don’t get what the problem is … I find it quite disappointing. It’s hypocrisy.” Cr Gill later “wondered” if the allegiance of a “champion” councillor to one section of the community could “affect their independence when they come to vote?”. “If a councillor is a champion for the business sector and there is a neighbour’s amenity issue before council … would the champion be able to even vote on the issue given the perception of allegiance?” he said. “It concerns me if there is any perception of councillors not voting on issues based on merit.”

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NEWS DESK

Beach box owners lose waste case Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au IN WHAT is regarded as a landmark finding, the Victorian Supreme Court has ruled that beach box owners on the Mornington Peninsula must pay waste disposal charges. The decision handed down by the court last week after two years’ deliberation is likely to affect various other charges levied by municipalities throughout Victoria. The Mornington Peninsula Beach Owners Association launched legal action against Mornington Peninsula Shire Council three years ago in a bid to avoid paying the annual waste charge. Unlike households, the beach boxes do not have bins that are left to be emptied weekly at the kerbside but, following the court's decision, they will now have to pay the $338 waste disposal charge included in this year's shire budget. The charge was $242 in 2018 when the beach box owners started their challenge. The mayor Cr Despi O’Connor said the judge was “highly critical of the case put forward by the [beach box] association and found that it failed at every point”. “This was a significant case for council and a successful claim would have had negative consequences for all Victorian councils and seriously impacted their ability to deliver services to the community,” Cr O’Connor said. “Our waste levy allows us to deal with waste across the shire, including public places. It’s not just about house-

hold bins.” Beach box association president Mark Davis said its committee was “naturally disappointed with this outcome and will be considering our next steps”. In an email to association members Mr Davis said the waste service charge had been challenged “on the basis that we could not and did not receive council waste collection”. “The judgement found that a ‘work around’ to the [state government imposed] rates cap applied by [the shire] was valid,” he said. “This decision has important implications not only for us as beach box owners, but for all rateable land in Victoria.” The association’s legal representatives Kellehers Australia described the 87-page decision by Justice Anthony Lewis Cavanough as being “a robust, comprehensive judgement”. “He accepted that the beach box occupiers, as a class, stood to gain some direct or indirect benefit from each of four waste-related ‘services’ council provided [such as] beach cleaning, foreshore litter bins, drain clearing and waste disposal vouchers,” Kellehers stated in a KANewsflash “alert” to the “key fundamental and highly significant findings”. The association argued that while council did not provide rubbish bins or disposal services to beach boxes public rubbish bins were installed for during camping season and bins on the foreshore were marked for street litter only. Cr David Gill said if the beach box

owners had won their case “the precedent set for paying fees or even rates would have sent shock waves throughout our community”. “It could have meant that if there was little or no benefit to an individual from an aspect of a service fee or even rate charge there could be claims for a deduction from the normal payments. For example, if you do not use the council Infant welfare service or kindergarten or homeless service you wouldn’t have to pay for them. “This would leave impossibly high charges for the less well-off using essential services.” Cr Gill said bathing box owners paid on average about $30 a week “for the privilege of using an outstanding public asset for their exclusive use with the bonus of selling their licences at market value as if it were an investment property” (“‘Locals only’ rule for beach boxes” The News 2/6/20). “My belief is that these licence fees are for a luxury item and should also be at market value.” Cr Steve Holland said the ruling against the beach box owners was “not unexpected, given the potential statewide ramifications had the shire lost”. “However, I'm not a fan of broadbased service charges, which can be used by municipalities to circumvent the rate cap in order to pay for services people expect to be funded via rates revenue,” Cr Holland said. “That said, I'm also not a fan of rate capping – it allows elected councillors to avoid accountability for perpetual rate hikes. If only there was a cap on state and federal taxes.”

Other options: Mornington Peninsula Shire’s footpath strategy is designed to provide alternative transport options, including walking. On a new path being built at Mount Martha are the mayor Cr Despi O’Connor (front) and, from left, Cr Anthony Marsh, Matthew Ashdown, Siddhesh Warerkar, Cr Steve Holland, Paul Bampton and Sam Polatidis. Picture: Supplied

Footpath works under way CONSTRUCTION is under way on the Harrap Road footpath at Mount Martha. The 1.5 kilometre path will run along the north side of the road starting at the Dunns Road roundabout and linking to an existing path down Harrap Road. About 1380 square metres of PolyRok – a recycled plastic alternative to mineral aggregate in concrete – is being used for its “minimal impacts

on the environment”. The shire was given $600,000 towards the project under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grant Program. The shire’s pedestrian access strategy identifies Harrap Road as a key link in the pedestrian network. The strategy provides alternative transport options, in this case a footpath, with community facilities and town centres.

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10 August 2021

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Around our Peninsula Yawa – ready, set, splash We are thrilled to announce our Yawa Aquatic Centre is complete and ready to welcome visitors again when restrictions allow. This world-class facility will provide enormous health and wellbeing benefits for our community for generations to come and we invite everyone to experience what Yawa has to offer. You really have to see it to believe it. Join the Yawa community with a membership today. 100 Besgrove Street (corner Boneo Road), Rosebud yawa.com.au • • • •

Protecting our coastline

50m indoor pool learn to swim pool warm water program pool spa, sauna, and steam room

• • • •

health and fitness classes gymnasium and wellness centre café high priority disability access

Seawinds: Crs Antonella Celi, Debra Mar, Kerri McCafferty We’re trialling a smoke-free zone on the Safety Beach foreshore to reduce the amount of butt litter and protect our precious coastal environment and marine wildlife. Cigarette butts make up a staggering 48 per cent of all litter counted in Australia. Let’s get them off our beaches and out of our waterways! A funding boost to the Southern Peninsula Community Support Centre will ensure that ongoing help to the marginalised in our community continues to be a priority.

Caring for our community

Briars: Crs Steve Holland, Anthony Marsh, Mayor Cr Despi O’Connor As lockdown is reinstated across the State, please continue to look after yourself, your loved ones and the wider community. Remember to check in using QR codes and if eligible, please get vaccinated. In a wonderful display of the democratic process, we are now the proud custodians of an impressive Community Vision for the Mornington Peninsula. It will be used by the Shire to develop the Council Plan and shape the future of the Peninsula. mornpen.vic.gov.au/2040

Investment in our children

Nepean: Cr Susan Bissinger, Deputy Mayor Cr Sarah Race It is satisfying to see funding for our kids in our 2021–22 budget, in particular $280,000 for a new playground at R Penman Reserve in Blairgowrie, which has been a long-advocated community project. We have also secured $80,000 for the planning of two new early years learning facilities in Tootgarook and Rye. This is investment in the critical early stages of children’s development, which will strengthen our communities and help children and families flourish in Nepean ward.

We’re moving forward

Cerberus: Cr Lisa Dixon

Like many, I’m looking forward to Bentons Road being open soon, and knowing that I’ll be driving on 1,450 tonnes of Plastiphalt, which contains five tonnes of recycled plastic. That’s the equivalent of 1.8 million plastic bags diverted from landfill! We’re also investing in promoting active transport, with $300,000 in the new budget for design of a missing link of the Bay Trail between Moorooduc and Mornington. When restrictions allow, please drop in for a chat at my new office at 10 High Street, Hastings – just opposite the library.

Supporting arts and culture

Watson: Cr Paul Mercurio AM

I am very happy to see $200,000 in funding in our new budget for the development of a business case for a state-of-the-art performing arts and cultural venue. Be assured I will be advocating for any future venue to be located on this side of the Peninsula to encourage our home-grown creatives. We’ve also allocated a further $500,000 towards a Performing Arts Fund, and $100,000 to ‘kick-start the music’ plan, which will support a range of actions associated with our Music Plan 2025. We must invest in the future of our arts and culture and build a stronger, more resilient sector.

Community initiatives welcome

Red Hill: Cr David Gill

Council policy is to promote community initiatives, especially during this COVID period. I would like to see as many projects as possible started and quickly completed, which poses a great challenge for Council processes. Please copy me into your proposals. Perhaps they involve a small community outdoor social gathering space, an idea for a small business workspace hub or help with working bees to improve your neighbourhood. Your ideas are important and welcomed by a Council culture that is open to possibilities. Council should be able to help.

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Mornington News

10 August 2021

Local COVID-19 vaccination centres For people who meet the eligibility criteria: • Frankston Community Vaccination Hub – Bayside Centre • Rosebud Clinic (Astra Zeneca) • Cranbourne Turf Club To book: 1800 675 398 portal.cvms.vic.gov.au • Rosebud Respiratory Clinic:

0436 033 507

Join the conversation Planning scheme amendment - C219 housing mornpen.vic.gov.au/peninsulahousing closes 24 Sept Volunteering on the Peninsula survey mornpen.vic.gov.au/volunteeringsurvey closes 27 Aug Smoke free Peninsula survey mornpen.vic.gov.au/smokefreepeninsula closes Nov 2021

Events Various dates, August – November Online business support workshops mpbusiness.com.au/upskill Catch ups with Crs Sarah Race and Kerri McCafferty mornpen.vic.gov.au/councillorcatchups

August 25

The Creators Network - meet our artists Mount Eliza Community Hall mornpen.vic.gov.au/creatorsnetwork

25-27 Free plant giveaway The Briars, Mount Martha

September 1-4

Free plant giveaway The Briars, Mount Martha

Climate-proof your garden workshop Eco Living Display Centre, The Briars mornpen.vic.gov.au/ecoliving

The Creators Network – meet our creative spaces Tyabb Community Hall mornpen.vic.gov.au/creatorsnetwork

Information is correct at time of printing. COVID-19 restrictions may cause changes or cancellations. For a full list of all Shire events see our website: mornpen.vic.gov.au/events mornpen.vic.gov.au/markets

Briars Ward

Watson Ward Cerberus Ward

POLITICS

Former mayor explains ‘worst’ tag Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au ’BEING labelled the worst mayor in Australia was a compliment, according to Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor änd former mayor David Gill. He says the accusation was levelled after the 2019 federal election by Flinders MP Greg Hunt, during a meeting at the shire’s Rosebud headquarters attended by “20 to 30 people, including councillors, senior officers and some of his [Mr Hunt’s] people”. Cr Gill has since had no hesitation in repeating the Mr Hunt’s claim, and in fact counts it as a compliment and acknowledgment “that I had been doing my job”. He believes Mr Hunt dubbed him Australia’s worst mayor because he attended functions or events during Mr Hunt’s 2019 election campaign. “In my opinion, he called me that because he thought I was interrupting his electioneering. I believe I was added to a list of worst mayors.” However, while Cr Gill has no problem with the title applied by Mr Hunt, he thinks some of his council colleagues - “new councillors” - do not know its origins or the context in which it was bestowed. Most recently, Cr Kerri McCafferty referred to the title “worst mayor in Australia” when Cr Gill unsuccessfully urged council to retrospectively ask the state government for help in financing the Yawa aquatic centre at

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillor David Gill, left, Nepean (Labor) MP Chris Brayne, centre, and Flinders (Liberal) MP Greg Hunt at a 2019 meeting to discuss a public health threat - the Buruli ulcer. Picture: Yanni Rosebud (“Shire declines to dive in for Yawa money” The News 3/8/21). “It was amusing to read that new councillors point to political motivations in my endeavours to have the state Labor government fund our aquatic centre. The previous council was unsuccessful because we didn’t have a swinging seat on the peninsula,” Cr Gill said last week. He said the peninsula now had two marginal state seats, apparently referring to Nepean, held by Labor’s Chris Brayne, and Hastings, where Liberal Neale Burgess could be under threat following a redistribution that has made it nominally “safe” for Labor.

“At the last federal election, I and others raised many issues with Liberal [Flinders MP] Greg Hunt and the election money flowed because, at the time, the election looked close,” Cr Gill said. “In the past, election promises were few and far between on the peninsula. “Greg called me the worst mayor in Australia. I enjoyed the title because it meant I was doing my job on behalf of our community. “The same now applies to Chris Brayne. He is worried about his wafer thin margin and will start doing more if put under pressure. “He probably thinks that I am the

worst local councillor in Australia for holding him accountable and scrutinising government actions that effect the peninsula (“Spoiler alert as MP ‘meet and greets’” The News 12/7/21). “We need to use community muscle and provide leadership to become noticed. “Our focus should be to catch up on the funding which has always gone to neighbouring councils who know how to use the vulnerabilities of politicians in advocating for their communities. “Anyone not advocating hard or [who is] protecting politicians because of their own political leanings

are not doing their job. “After the federal election I congratulated Greg for his work and contribution toward community projects. “I hope we receive the same response from Chris Brayne, in which case I will certainly congratulate him also.” Mr Brayne last week told The News that “council should look forward, not back”. In a Facebook post, Mr Brayne pointed out that the shire had spent $200,000 on naming the aquatic centre (“Shire’s ugly Sorry Day decision” 6/6/20. “Perhaps if that hadn’t happened, the councillor in question might not be coming to the government for more money.” He said there were many projects needed on the peninsula and councillors should “see how we can work together to get them done”. “I remain keen to get as much stuff done while I’m fortunate to be in this position,” Mr Brayne said. His Facebook post was quickly followed by one from Cr Antonella Celi, stating that it was “nowhere near $200,000 for [Yawa’s] naming survey”. The budget of “around $200K” had included branding, marketing and signs. “I tolerate a lot out there, but I will not stand for an untruth to keep getting repeated,” Cr Celi said. “Councillors are well aware of what we need to deliver to the community, and it would be helpful if the state representative got on with the job to help council deliver.”

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Mornington News

10 August 2021

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Police patrol

NEWS DESK

With Stephen Taylor

Sleeves up: Constable Nikki Crane, who organised the day, Acting Sergeant Cam Fields, Senior Sergeant Paul Edwards, Sergeant Jodie Powell, Senior Constable Meg Morgan, Senior Constable Caroline Taylor (seated), Senior Constable James Cameron, Constable Ash Condon, Leading Senior Constable Carl Spackler and Constable Dan Cousins.

Shire call for JobKeeper

Rising to the challenge MORNINGTON police rolled up their sleeves to the Red Cross blood donation drive as part of the Emergency Services Blood Challenge, Tuesday 4 August. The police say they understand the importance of blood donations and are prepared to help the community any way they can. Victoria Police are hoping to retain the state title in the number of donations. The Frankston donor centre is at 20 Davey Street. Donors are asked to say they are donating on behalf of Victoria Police.

Morning drive ends with charges ROSEBUD police called to a collision on Melbourne Road, Sorrento, last Thursday (5 August) were surprised when the offending driver blew 0.236 per cent, almost five times the legal limit, at 9 o’clock in the morning. The male, in his 20s, is expected to be charged on summons with several driving offences, including use of a mobile phone while driving, driving an unregistered vehicle and drink-driving. His licence was immediately suspended. Senior Constable Shaun Williams said it was “by the grace of God that no-one was killed” in the lead-up to the intercept. “Luck was the only difference today between a tow truck and the coroner’s van,” he said. “It’s that simple. Even if you’ve had a sleep after a big night out don’t assume you’ll be right to drive. If you even need to think about it get a taxi or an Uber. It’s a damned sight cheaper than the alternative.”

pizza to an Arthur Street house, 9.04pm. The offender is described as a male, 180cm, wearing a black hoodie and face mask. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.

Speeding, over limit HASTINGS nightshift van clocked a speeding driver on Stony point Road, Bittern, last week doing 84kph in a 60kph zone. When breath-tested the 28-year-old man of Tuerong, blew 0.208 per cent – four times the legal limit. After his arrest, 4am, Friday 6 August, the man’s licence was suspended, and his vehicle impounded with a release fee of $1075. He will be charged on summons for a range of speed and drink-driving offences.

Kayak found MORNINGTON police found a blue Wave Dancer kayak washed up on the northern side of Fisherman’s Beach, Mornington. The owner can contact either property officer Paula O’Brien at the police station 5970 4900, or Senior Constable Will Mountney at the Water Police, 9399 7500.

Pizza rider robbed A PIZZA delivery rider was held up and his scooter stolen at Hastings, Thursday 29 July. Detective Senior Sergeant Eddie Lagonder, of Somerville CIU, said the offender with a 20cm knife ordered the rider to hand over the keys to the Domino’s scooter when he delivered the

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council wants the federal government to reinstate the JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments. “Our communities are suffering and they need greater income support which we, as a local government, can’t deliver them; we’ve pulled all the levers we have available,” Cr Sarah Race told council’s Tuesday 27 July meeting. “I have spent the last week and a half hearing from and reading about the anguish of business owners and community members and their very real struggle with lockdown five. “Most of us know public health measures are necessary in a pandemic, however, that doesn’t make situations any easier. “Many of our business owners have had to stand down staff. Many people are wondering how they’re going to feed their families – even with the amazing support of our hardworking community organisations. “Many people are trying to figure out how they’re going to pay their rent, mortgage and utilities.” Cr Race said the shire had “one of the highest rates of JobKeeper support”. “The JobKeeper wage subsidy was paid through the employer’s payroll system, so employers could only receive payments for as long as a worker remains employed,” she said. “This kept employees connected to their places of employment. “The new COVID-19 disaster payment of $600 separates employers and employees. $600 is also $150 less per week than the minimum wage. “Services Australia are also reporting a massive backlog of claims. Our people are struggling; our businesses are struggling, and our community is struggling.” Later, and before the sixth lockdown was announced, Cr Race saidthe pandemic “isn’t going away anytime soon”. “We need our unemployed to be supported properly when hopes of long-term and full time employment, particularly in hospitality and retail businesses, is perilous. Stephen Taylor

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Wildlife loses out to housing spread Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au A MCCRAE veterinary nurse says rampant tree felling is displacing native wildlife and destroying “the very thing that attracts people to the Mornington Peninsula in the first place”. Samantha Verkuylen said she watched trees being felled on a neighbouring property with “no regard or concern for any native species” living there. “Possums are a protected species and it is illegal to cut down their homes while they are living in them,” she said. “Land owners should have properties assessed for wildlife then use appropriate measures, such as authority control wildlife permits to safely relocate the animals no more than 50 metres from the property. “This did not occur at this planned felling nor has it been followed in many situations like it on the peninsula. I know this as I have had numerous witnesses describe the horrific scenes of trees being cut down with animals still living in them running for their lives in danger of being injured or exposed to predators.” Ms Verkuylen said suburban sprawl had changed land use on the peninsula, with single homes being replaced by townhouses and apartments leading to the removal of native flora. “Ironically, this process destroys the very thing that attracts people to the peninsula in the first place,” she said. Last week, Ms Verkuylen said she was “in a panic to try and save the

Sad outcome: Vet nurse Samantha Verkuylen sees firsthand the damage caused by block clearing. Picture: Yanni

drey [ringtail possum’s nest] I knew was established in trees on the [neighbouring] property”. “I called various bodies to seek instant help,” she said. “I was bounced from a wildlife group to a government

website to the police and, finally, to the local council, all of who gave no solution and simply handballed the situation to someone else. No one was able to take responsibility for the unfolding situation.”

Ms Verkuylen said she was told the “best I could do” – by the Department of Environment Land Water and Planning where she was directed by Wildlife Australia – was to “file a wildlife offence report, which could

take 4-6 weeks to be processed, then for someone to come and access the property, if animals were harmed”. “I didn't have 4-6 weeks as it was happening right now,” she said. “While many locals will tell you they have a brushtail or ringtail living somewhere in their garden; that they have parrots and native birds who visit and share the land, unfortunately, this attitude is not shared by all. “The growing disconnection we have developed to the natural world speaks loudly when situations like these occur right in our backyard. “Can you imagine if someone destroyed your home and you were left exposed to find a safe place to live with your family? Globally we’ve destroyed so much habitat – the peninsula is no exception. “We should be far more mindful of this when making planning decisions. Surely there are greater things at stake than the value of a block of land?” Ms Verkuylen said environmental scientists readily confirmed biodiversity was needed to keep natural systems healthy. “It is in our own interest to take land use change and biodiversity loss seriously,” she said. “Unfortunately, unless our current attitude to the natural world changes significantly and soon we will work this out far too late. “In the words of Sir David Attenborough we need to realise we are a part of nature not apart from nature.”

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Councillors follow shire’s advice to ‘get the jab’ Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au AT LEAST six of Mornington Peninsula Shire’s 11 councillors have been vaccinated against the coronavirus, while another two are waiting for their age group to be cleared for the jab. In doing so, the councillors are backing up the shire’s online request for residents to "help stop the pandemic by getting a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you”. People and culture manager Kelly Gillies said the shire’s urging for vaccinations followed advice from the Chief Health Officer and supported the state government’s efforts to encourage community vaccination. There was no requirement for staff - many of whom interact with the public - to be vaccinated, but they were being encouraged to do so, “including allowing them paid time from work to get the vaccination”, Ms Gillies said. “We aren’t recording who is and isn’t vaccinated as vaccination status is considered private health information. We are, as always, following and complying with all directions from the state and federal governments.” The mayor Cr Despi O’Connor said she had been fully vaccinated since mid-July, adding that Cr Lisa Dixon had had “both doses” of AstraZeneca. Cr David Gill and Cr Sarah Race are

scheduled to have their second shots this week. “I’m passionate about getting people vaccinated – the sooner 70-80 per cent of us are, the sooner we get out of living with lockdowns,” Cr Race said, just as Victoria entered its sixth lockdown. Cr Anthony Marsh described himself as “one of the lucky Australian’s …unable to get a vaccination due to lack of supply”. “Noting that AstraZeneca is not recommended for those under 60 and Pfizer is unavailable under 40, I will continue to ‘hurry up and wait’ until the time comes that I'm actually able and eligible to comply with the health advice and get vaccinated,” he said. “That said, I consider do myself lucky to be in a lower risk category, so happy for others to be prioritised given the lack of supply.” Cr Steve Holland, in the same age bracket as Cr Marsh, has registered to be notified “as soon as that changes”. Cr Kerri McCafferty: “I got vaccinated about three hours after I got a text telling me I was eligible. I pretty much jumped in the car and drove straight to Frankston to get it done. “I’ve had my first dose of Pfizer and am looking forward to having my second dose when I can.” Cr Susan Bissinger is set to have her second Pfizer shot on Saturday.

“While so many are grappling with the dilemma [over whether get vaccinated], my choice was made easier as I have had a couple of bouts of pneumonia a few years ago, and my straight talking doctor strongly recommended that I am vaccinated for my own wellbeing,” she said. “As anyone who has had pneumonia or any type of respiratory infection will tell you, it can be an awful and frightening experience to go through, and from all reports COVID has the potential to hit so much harder with a much worse outcome.” Cr Bissinger said getting vaccinated for COVID was a matter of choice. “I certainly don’t like the possibility that people who choose not to get vaccinated may be vilified in any way, after all it is their choice,” she said. “Consideration should also be given to the fact that once you are fully vaccinated you can still contract COVID and pass it on to others; it just means that if you are fully vaccinated you won’t get a severe case that sees you hospitalised or worse. “I am really hopeful that the vast majority of vulnerable and older members of our community will choose to be vaccinated for their own protection.” Crs Antonella Celi, Paul Mercurio and Debra Mar did not respond by deadline when asked if they had been vaccinated.

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PAGE 9

WHAT’S NEW...

A new job in aged care can become a second or third career WORKING in aged care is a secure and rewarding form of employment, especially in uncertain times. Ana Cetincic and her colleagues at Rye Sands, Japara’s home in Rye, have certainly not missed out on any work opportunities in recent months. Instead, Ana got to pick the hours and shifts that suit her the most at the aged care home of her choice on the Mornington Peninsula. While she still loves her old profession as a schoolteacher, Ana also values the time she gets to spend with people of the opposite age, our seniors. In her role as a Personal Care Worker, PCW, she has chosen a hands-on role, helping people with their everyday tasks. Yet, it is equally as important to take some time out, sit down, and simply have a chat and ask residents about their day, but also their long lives. Ana has quickly learned that care does not only need to be provided physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. She believes that there is a lot we can learn from our seniors and that their perspective on life can help us to ground ourselves, to take a step back in moments where we would otherwise stress. When seeing Ana looking after the residents at Rye Sands, one might think that she has years of experience under her belt when, in fact, she has only been working as a carer for about two years. It was in 2019, when she signed up for a traineeship at Japara that leads directly to a Certificate III in Individual Support. It took Ana just over seven months to complete the qualification that is supported by Chisholm Institute, one of the most popular TAFEs in greater Melbourne. She loved the experience, meeting new people, and the opportunity to start a new career as part of a supportive ‘earn while you learn’ program. Ana, who migrated to Australia from her native Croatia, also enjoys that some Japara residents speak and understand her mother tongue. Therefore, going to work sometimes helps with being home sick and with keeping up her Croatian language skills. Ana wants people to know that this traineeship, and the care work she provides, can be a new start in life for anyone. No matter what their age or professional background.

New challenge: Ana Cetincic has started her career in aged care with a traineeship at Japara. To help others make the right decision, Ana has put some time aside to answer a few questions about the aged care sector and about the traineeship itself that helped her open up a whole new career path. What did you like about the course? I liked the ability to be physically present in the classroom and meet other trainees and interact with them during class sessions. The teacher was very friendly and passed on a lot of her knowledge in the field. The course was well structured and was relatively easy to follow. Being paid to learn was an added bonus.

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PAGE 10

Mornington News

10 August 2021

What did you learn from the course? The traineeship gave me all the knowledge I needed in order to work in aged care. Because of the theoretical and practical lessons in class, and the hands-on work experience at the Japara facility, I was well prepared, even for my first exciting “buddy” shifts with some more experienced care staff and nurses. Why do you think others should complete it? This course is the best way to enter the aged care industry with the benefit of being paid for learning. It allows you to get experience in an aged care facility whilst learning so that when

you complete the course you can go straight into employment at that Japara facility. How is your career developing since completing the traineeship? I now have permanent part-time shifts at Rye Sands, the aged care facility I did my placement at. I have a regular income and I can pick up more shifts if I want to. I am able to perfectly juggle my work with my family life. This work-life balance is very important to me.

NEWS DESK

Ryman redraws plans for second permit bid Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au RYMAN Healthcare will submit a new planning permit application to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for a retirement village and aged care facility at Mount Eliza. The new application will come just weeks after a knock-back from the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a much larger development. The New Zealand-based company contends VCAT “supported the use of the Kunyung Road site for that purpose” in its refusal and has resubmitted a smaller proposal with 13 fewer assisted living units and 77 fewer apartments. The number of care beds remains at 82. The development is expected to cost $85 million. In its 82-page determination released on Friday 2 July, VCAT confirmed Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s permit refusal and long-standing op-position to the project saying: “… the decision of the responsible authority is affirmed” and that the Ryman permit application would not be granted. “We accept that the proposal for a modern, integrated aged care and retirement facility would have the capacity to meet the future needs and expectations of an ageing population,” the

VCAT decision stated. “[However] this is not a preferred location for aged care, neither is there strong evidence of unmet localised demand.” But Ryman contends the VCAT ruling “supported the use of the 8.9ha site for retirement living and aged care, pointing to the clear community benefit [the] proposal would provide”. “The tribunal declined to issue a permit, citing concerns about the scale of some components of the proposed village, but gave clear guidance on what would be an appropriate outcome for the site,” the company said. Ryman’s development manager David Laing said the “new permit application … responds directly to VCAT’s guidance”. “We were really pleased the independent umpire ruled that retirement living and aged care is a suitable use for the site, and how much the community would benefit from having a Ryman village there,” Mr Laing told The News. “The recommendations VCAT has given have been incredibly helpful, so we’ve been able to take those on board and submit a new permit application that responds directly to it.” Ryman recently appealed to the Supreme Court to review how a point of planning law was interpreted by

VCAT, but Mr Laing said this would “have no bearing on how the new permit application will be considered”. “We obviously have a long-term interest in this site so just want to make sure that the correct policy and planning framework is applied to it, now and into the future,” he said. Former Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Leigh Eustace, who contested the VCAT review, said the word “suitable” in the Ryman statement was “misleading”. “The tribunal said, ‘The use [retirement village and aged care in association with a place of worship] was permissible under current zoning’, but was very clear in its assessment that this site was not a preferred location and neither was there strong evidence of unmet localised demand,” he said. “The tribunal was clear … that the site was not in a preferred location, was outside the urban growth boundary, does not satisfy non-urban development planning and settlement policies, would impact on the inter-urban green break between Mount Eliza and Mornington, and would have a detrimental impact on the heritage, coastal, landscape and environmental aspects of the site.”

Green wedge zone would stop plan - MP MORNINGTON MP David Morris is pressuring the state government uses planning laws to stop the former Mount Eliza Business School site being developed as an aged care home and retirement “village”. Mr Morris called on Planning Minister Richard Wynne in state parliament last week to rezone the Ryman Healthcare site in Kunyung Road as green wedge. The move would prevent the company using the 8.9 hectare site for a retirement village and head off its latest attempt to win approval for a smaller development. “This government brags a lot about protecting the green wedge,” Mr Morris said. “We have had lots of words. It is about time those words were put into action, and we have seen precious little in the way of actions on this site.” Mr Morris said Ryman’s original proposal was for eight four-storey buildings, three three-storey buildings, 272 apartments, 115 nursing beds and

362 car spaces over 23,000 square metres “all outside the urban growth boundary”. Ryman says its new, reduced version is for 104 independent apartments, 35 assisted living suites and 82 care beds. Mr Morris said Mr Wynne had ignored his pleas over the past 17 months to “call in” the project saying in February last year that he “would look into it” and again, in June and October, stonewalling over pleas to act. “This rezoning [to green wedge] is supported by an overwhelming majority of the community,” Mr Morris said. “It is supported by an overwhelming majority of the new [Mornington Peninsula Shire] council as well. “Let us see if this minister is actually fair dinkum, if all the words that we have heard about protecting the green wedge—and we have seen zero actions in Mount Eliza—are fair dinkum or not. I do ask him to act and act as expeditiously as possible to finally protect this land.” Stephen Taylor

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Let’s celebrate: Norma Evans, Russell Jackson and Audrey Birch dressed in the Probus colours. Picture: Supplied

Milestone for Probus THE Combined Mornington Probus Club celebrated its 25th anniversary with lunch at Norwood House in June. After months of COVID-induced lockdowns and restrictions to the club’s activities, those who attended made up for lost time, treasurer Linda Ivanovski said, adding that a quarter of a century was a “long time to run a club with continued success and popularity”. “Obviously they are doing something right, as there are still six active foundation members,” she said. The club came about in the summer of 1995 when six people on a lengthy Probus Club waiting list approached Rotary and sought permission to start a new club. Details of the inaugural meeting at The Atrium Restaurant at Dromana were advertised locally and 50 people attended. Anecdotally, it was said half were from Red Hill looking to form a caravan club!

“The numbers were certainly there, and so the new club was launched,” Ms Ivanovski said. Initially, membership was limited to 85, but within 12 months this was increased to 125. Bus trips, dine outs, golf matches, book and garden groups, cards and mahjong groups, theatre and walking groups, were all well supported – often with a waiting list. “The club is still focused on social activities, fun and friendship. It is open to men and women who have retired or semi-retired,” Ms Ivanovski said. Meetings are held at Mornington Golf Club on the first Tuesday of each month. All activities are at cost, with no fund raising except for raffles. The Combined Mornington Probus Club monthly newsletter can be seen at probussouthpacific.org/microsites/ Morningtonc or call Carol 0422 849 177 or email The Secretary, at cmpcsecretary@gmail.com. Visitors welcome.

Attention Schools, sporting clubs & community groups

Free advertising listings Each month the Mornington News will run a Community Events page, where your school or organisation can promote upcoming events, fund raisers, social events, etc. at no charge. This page is sponsored by the Mornington Village Shopping Centre and listings are completely free. Listings should be about 40 words and include event name, date, time & address.

Send your listing to:

Community Events

PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or email communityevents@mpnews.com.au Mornington News

10 August 2021

PAGE 11

NEWS DESK Boat ramp works WESTERN Port anglers can breathe a sigh of relief with the news that dredging and pontoon work at the Hastings boat ramp have been deferred until March next year. This will minimise disruption to the peak fishing season towards the end of this year. The upgrades are being delivered in two stages. The first, which was completed in spring this year, included replacing the boat ramp and extending ramp lanes by six metres. The second stage – which has been deferred – will include dredging the boat ramp access channel and installing a second pontoon. The state government has given $1.6 million to Mornington Peninsula Shire to install the boat ramp and for the dredging, and up to $1.2 million for the second pontoon.

Road works THE federal government has allocated $3.2 million towards two road Black Spot projects. At Rye and Tootgarook, $1.8m will be used for roundabouts, raised intersections and signs in conjunction with the speed limit being lowered to 40kph between Point Nepean Road and Browns Road. More than $1.4m has been put towards a compact roundabout, raised pavements and splitter islands at the Craigie Road and Osborne Drive, Mount Martha intersection. Flinders MP Greg Hunt said none of the projects would be delivered “without the community’s vital input” and urged residents and motorists “to nominate projects for future funding rounds”.

Life Saver of the Year: Chris Perrott, of Portsea Surf Life Saving Club.

Remme Mason, of Mornington LSC, won the Mike Martin AM Champion Junior Lifesaver award.

Lifesavers recognised in awards MORNINGTON Peninsula lifesavers have been recognised in Life Saving Victoria’s 2021 excellence awards which recognise the most outstanding members, clubs, aquatic facilities and the broader aquatic community. LSV chief executive officer Catherine Greaves applauded their commitment to lifesaving. Life Saver of the Year Chris Perrott, of Portsea Surf Life Saving Club, made an “outstanding contribution to lifesaving as a patrolling lifesaver”. This award remembers John Wishart, of Sorrento-Portsea SLSC, who was taken by a shark off Portsea in 1956. Youth Lifesaver of the Year Andrew May, also of Portsea SLSC, made an “outstanding contribution to the deliv-

A DVE RTI S I N G FE ATUR E

ery of lifesaving frontline services”. May is the club’s director of general and operation committees, chief instructor of bronze medallion camps, chief of water safety for the Portsea Swim Classic and Pier 2 Perignon swim events, as well as lifesaving operations council representative and patrol captain. The Outstanding Achievement of the Year award went to Point Leo SLSC’s Lion’s Den youth program, which aims to bridge the gap between surf rescue certificate and bronze medallion qualifications. This helps to increase participation and engagement of the club’s 14-and-15-yearold members. It “created a sense of excitement, anticipation, and a true

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carnivals, including the state championships in challenging conditions. The Mount Martha and Portsea clubs won Administration Club of the Year which recognises outstanding achievements in administration. Beach Lifeguard of the Year Sarah McNamara made an outstanding contribution to the delivery and development of a professional lifeguard service across Victoria and especially on the Mornington Peninsula. State Services Long Service Awards went to Ray Webb (Gunnamatta), 10 years, and Hamish McKendrick (Portsea) and Donna Watt (Gunnamatta), five years. Stephen Taylor

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pathway for youth”. The Mike Martin AM Champion Junior Lifesaver award went to Remme Mason, of Mornington LSC, for his contribution to lifesaving and the community. Emerging Official of the Year Georgia Cassell Ashton, of Point Leo SLSC, has made an “impressive mark on competitions using her tenacity to make decisions about competitions and races to help keep events running”. Official of the Year, Kaya Cook, of Mount Martha LSC, has held her surf official accreditation since 2015 and acts as chief judge and carnival referee. She trains and mentors officials and this season officiated at many

O P EN F O R B U S I N E SS Mornington

PAGE 12

Youth Lifesaver of the Year: Andrew May, of Portsea SLSC

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GREEN AND GOLD PAGE 3 TUESDAY, 10th AUGUST 2021

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MOUNT ELIZA, MORNINGTON, MOUNT MARTHA

A B C

mpnews.com.au

Tuesday , 10th August 2021

MORNINGTON NEWS

Page 2

ON THE COVER

ELEMENTARY BUYING IN THE HEART OF MOUNT MARTHA VILLAGE COMBINE architectural excellence with a sleek contemporary look and you realise the vision of this stunning home boasting a dreamy lifestyle, moments walk from quaint shops, cafes and the beach. Full use has been made of the excellent 831 square metre block with lush garden views available from almost every window, and with elevated alfresco areas you can entertain with family and friends in privacy. Handsome polished timber floors make an immediate impact as does the cool greys and crisp whites of the tranquil and welcoming first floor open plan family zone incorporating a large meals area that will comfortably seat eight and a comfortable lounge has excellent storage

HOME ESSENTIALS

cupboards fitted underneath the long picture window. The lounge also boasts a gas fire and air-conditioning, and from here you can step out to the undercover terrace – beautifully shady amongst the tall gum trees. The main attraction to the home is the magnificent kitchen that is simply one of the finest you will ever see. With true design flair seldom found gorgeous dark timbers compete for your attention alongside glistening stainless-steel appliances, glamorous stone benchtops and mirrored splashbacks, all the while offering a multitude of storage with soft-close drawers and a huge pantry. Completing this incredible upstairs area is lovely guest room with walk-in robe that access a powder

room with separate shower and vanity. Downstairs are three more bedrooms, all with walk-in robes and air-conditioning. Two smaller bedrooms in the south corner share the main bathroom, whilst the larger master bedroom to the front of the home has a fully-tiled ensuite with double shower and full-length vanity. The downstairs living room opens out to a timber deck which gazes across the landscaped backyard which has a fire pit and pizza oven. With a dazzling use of timber and stone, this home encapsulates the magical essence of this prime locale by offering a lovely connection to the outdoors with views of the bay and Balcombe Creek Bushland Reserve.n

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ADDRESS: 38 Watson Avenue, MOUNT MARTHA FOR SALE: Contact Agent For Price DESCRIPTION: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 car AGENT: Amanda Haimona 0419 387 682, Bonaccorde, 4/42 Lochiel Avenue, Mount Martha, 5974 8900

A B C F D

mpnews.com.au

Tuesday, 10th August 2021

MORNINGTON NEWS Page 3

“The difference between a good price and a great price is a great estate agent”

BED

MORNINGTON 24 Bayview Road

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FRANKSTON SOUTH 1 The Close

$790,000 - $869,000

$890,000 - $979,000 / Auction: Saturday 4th Sept. @ 11:30am

Royal Cottage

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Beautifully renovated 1930’s cottage n Hand-crafted spotted gum kitchen with gas cooktop Jarrod Carman | 0423 144 102 n Blissful privacy behind a tall picket fence Shaylee Sweetnam | 0424 315 399 n

BATH

CAR

Plenty of space with living & dining areas plus a home office Master suite with parents retreat, ensuite & walk in robe Jarrod Carman | 0423 144 102 n Perfectly set within the Frankston High School zone Mason Shepherd| 0429 877 387 n n

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Jarrod Carman Licensed Estate Agent

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Jarrod Carman | 0423 144 102 Mason Shepherd| 0429 877 387

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Why list with one, when you can list with all Office: Mornington, 311 Main Street| 5971 0300

Tuesday , 10th August 2021

MORNINGTON NEWS

Page 4

75 Kilburn Grv, Mount Martha

Address on request Mount Martha

4 BED | 2 BATH | STUDY | 2 CAR

4 BED | 4 BATH | STUDY | 2 CAR

Contact Agent

Brendan Collopy 0400 339 644

Amanda Haimona 0419 387 682

45 Hull Rd, Mount Martha

38 Watson Rd, Mount Martha

4 BED | 2 BATH

| 3 CAR

4 BED | 3 BATH | 2 CAR

Contact Agent

Amanda Haimona 0419 387 682

"...It has been one of my great experiences in appointing Amanda and her team to sell my property, to see such a professional yet personal approach to the whole process of selling was enlightening. Care and attention is what best summarises their approach..." VENDORS | 16 WATERVIEW DRV, MOUNT MARTHA

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SALES + PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 4/42 LOCHIEL AVENUE, MT MARTHA WWW.BONACCORDE.COM.AU

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Tuesday, 10th August 2021

MORNINGTON NEWS Page 5

8a Canning Road, FRANKSTON SOUTH

41 Bellbird Road, MOUNT ELIZA STEVE WALSH

RENEE KOSTIUK

0407 789 877

0404 474 019

1/22 James Street, FRANKSTON

BELINDA JONES RICHARD CONACHER

0414 862 253

22 Surrey Road, MORNINGTON RICHARD ROBINSON

RICHARD LANGFORD

0425 701 584

157 Kunyung Road, MOUNT ELIZA

0499 224 488

28 Cliff Road, FRANKSTON CATHERINE BUCHAN

ANDREW MELAS

0497 123 123

D L O e S

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Tuesday , 10th August 2021

MORNINGTON NEWS

Page 6

E N O RE MO ED LIST

34 Barmah Street, MOUNT ELIZA

19 Mohilla Street, MOUNT ELIZA CATHERINE BUCHAN

CATHERINE BUCHAN

0497 123 123

E N O RE MO ED LIST

0497 123 123

E N O RE MO ED LIST

9 Roborough Avenue, MOUNT ELIZA

16 Rowsley Road, MOUNT ELIZA STEVE WALSH

RENEE KOSTIUK

0407 789 877

0404 474 019

E ON RE MO ED LIST

CATHERINE BUCHAN

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E ON RE MO ED LIST

23 Pratt Avenue, FRANKSTON SOUTH

57 Arthurs Avenue, McCRAE RICHARD LANGFORD

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Tuesday, 10th August 2021

MORNINGTON NEWS Page 7

INDUSTRIAL / COMMERCIAL

Auction

Thursday 26th August at 11:00am on site 98 Mt Eliza Way, Mount Eliza

A Real Investment

ICONIC FREEHOLD SITE ONE of the most recognisable freehold sites on the peninsula, this excellent retail complex in beautiful Flinders is now available to purchase at auction later this month. Home to ten businesses, the magnificent 2023 square metre corner site has eleven separate titles including the large car park. The total building area of the shops is about 650 square metres, which are leased to long-standing tenants with a return of $128,176 per annum (net + GST), with future rental upside. The property is zoned Commercial 1 and is literally in the heart of Flinders’ retail strip opposite restaurants and motel. Iconic retail opportunities like this in such a great location are few and far between.n

It’s best to invest in Real Estate Freehold for sale with fabulous tenant Commercial 1 Zone

Returning $73,800 p.a.

Land area: 230sqm*

9775 1535 nicholscrowder.com.au

Building area: 160sqm*

*approx

Linda Ellis 0400 480 397 1 Colemans Road, Carrum Downs,Vic, 3201

PROPERTY ESSENTIALS

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

ADDRESS: 33 Cook Street, FLINDERS AUCTION: Friday 13th August at 2pm AGENT: Jamie Stuart 0412 565 562, Nichols Crowders Property Solutions, 4/230 Main Street, Mornington, 5925 6005

For Sale

Auction

Substantial Commercial Investment with Upside

Wood Not Miss It!

By Expression of Interest 140 -146 Young Street & 37-43 Playne Street, Frankston

Wednesday 18th August at 12:30pm 13 Wood Street, Mornington

M AI N ST

13 Wood Street, Mornington

RE E T

MORNINGTON FAMILY DOCTORS MORNINGTON COASTAL MEDICAL

N MOR

NEPEAN HIGHWAY

PHARMACY

T YAB ON INGT

Corner Young Street & Playne Street, Frankston Building area: 2,100sqm* Land area: 1,462sqm* Existing income: $190,000pa* Potential income: $420,000pa* *Approx

9775 1535 nicholscrowder.com.au

mpnews.com.au

Linda Ellis David Olding

0400 480 397 0408 358 891

1 Colemans Road, Carrum Downs Vic 3201

B RD

WOOD STREET

Outline indicative only

Premium land holding of 955sqm (approx) Existing 3 bedroom residence Prime Commercial 1 Zone Plans & permit approved site Close to Peninsula Link & surrounded by National retailers

5925 6005 nicholscrowder.com.au

Tuesday , 10th August 2021

Jamie Stuart 0412 565 562 James Dodge 0488 586 896 4/230 Main St, Mornington Vic 3931 MORNINGTON NEWS

Page 8

LETTERS

Letters - 300 words maximum and including full name, address and contact number - can be sent to The News, PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or emailed to: team@mpnews.com.au

All a flutter over flag protocol On a recent visit to Sorrento we were astonished to see the Victorian flag at the top of the mast in the shopping centre with the Australian and Aboriginal flags relegated to two lower jackstaffs (pictured right). Flag etiquette as defined in the Flags Act 1953 clearly defines how flags should be shown when flagstaffs are not of equal height, with the order of precedence is from highest to lowest. “The Australian national flag takes precedence in Australia over all other flags when it is flown in company with other flags” (and therefore should be flown from the highest to lowest). “Thereafter, when flown in the community the order of precedence, where applicable, of flags is: national flag of other nations, state and territory flags … the Australian Aboriginal flag and the Torres Strait islander flag in either order; Defence ensigns, ensigns and pennants of local government; Commonwealth, state and territory agencies; and finally non-government organisation.” I note that outside the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council offices in Mornington, where the flags are all the same height, the order of precedence of the flags is correct as defined in the Flags Act. As clearly the way flags are flown at Sorrento is wrong and in fact illegal, it is either a mistake made by someone who is not aware of the order of precedence, or some woke council person trying to infer that Victoria is more important than the Commonwealth as a whole. Darryl Chambers, Mount Martha

Pre-existing worry My husband is 84 and in good health after a recent successful hip replacement, although this was followed by a deep vein thrombosis. He has been actively, but unsuccessfully, trying to get the Pfizer vaccine rather than the Astra Zeneca because he has a 20-year history of deep and superficial vein thrombosis. He also has a family history of blood clot death and his mother died from a stroke.

service like electricity. You cannot have such a service being a market place. To put things into perspective, most Victorian solar farms are around 50 to 100Mw each, maximum output, daytime only. Little old Loy Yang B power station at Traralgon, has under its roof, two coal fired generators, each one generating over 500Mw of constant power, 24 hours a day, 7/365 if required. One Australian aluminium smelter uses 1000Mw of power constantly, all day and all night; iron or steel production is proportional, 24/7. We desperately need other heavy, and light, industries. Run-off batteries? Brian A Mitchelson, Mornington

If he has the Astra Zeneca and dies from a clot, would I be told that it would have been caused by a pre-existing condition? Would I be told the same if he catches the virus and dies from it? How many other older voters, and their families, are out there in the same predicament? Perhaps we should get together. Val Kent, Mornington

COVID ignorance No offence to our Premier Danny (Andrews), but let’s be honest. New boy [Nepean Labor MP] Chris Brayne would be wise to look for another career after the next election: Lockdown 6. We live with so many arrogant people at this time, indeed ignorant. [federal Labor leader Anthony] Albanese’s suggestion of $300 to be vaccinated sounds silly but, listening to the wall if ignorance locally, it’s perhaps a good idea: The RSL, two unvaccinated tradies, lots to say on self-importance, one with a wife and child, oblivious to the COVID-19 risk factor. Their logic of never anything down here? I tried, but brick walls don’t listen. Cliff Ellen, Rye

Cut pays for parity

Solar unsettling With regard to the proposed 240 megawatt battery installation at Tyabb, I couldn’t help seeing it from another angle (“Battery plan to ‘stabilise’ power supply” The News 27/7/21). Effectively, it is soaking up all of that rooftop solar panel power generated during the day, peaking at around noon, that is not wanted because nobody is at home or, if they are, there is little electricity used. The battery [owner] buys this unwanted electricity at a dirt cheap price, then sells it back to the same suckers five hours later at a much higher price. Yes, at the same time it is stabilising the grid, the instability being caused by an excess of solar panels. Most of our remote solar farms should be fitted with even bigger batteries for similar reasons, but are not because the cost is prohibitive,

Picture: Yanni

uneconomic. The Tyabb battery will be, I believe, of 240Mw DC capacity which will manufacture about 200Mw AC back into the grid for two hours at maximum capacity, worst case scenario. All of this mish-mash of private investments, profiteering, kindergarten engineering, part time generators all over the place, is a disastrous way to run an essential

As we re-enter what is now our COVID-normal in Victoria, we must spare yet another thought for all the small businesses which have gone under, and those which have survived so far, but are on the brink of failure. How much produce will go to waste this week after restaurants and cafes are given three hours’ notice that they will be closed for a week? The simplest way of bringing more understanding to those who are wreaking such havoc is to cut all Victorian public service salaries by 50 per cent for the duration of the lockdown. To those who say that’s not fair, public servants are not to blame, I say nor are the small business owners, and many are losing all their income and then some. The money saved could then be paid to those businesses to cover their wastage. We might even start to believe our chief jailer when he says, “We are all in this together”. Jack Wheeler, Mornington

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

Returned Soldiers Hold Smoke Social Compiled by Cameron McCullough A MOST successful smoke social was given to its members on Saturday night, 23rd July, by the Hastings Branch of the Returned Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Imperial League of Australia. After the toast of The King had been honored, the President, Mr Russell, in proposing the League, made it clear to those present, the great advantages to be derived by its members from the organisation if they would only stick together, attend the meetings regularly, and keep at heart the welfare and progress of the League, which should not be judged by what it bad been, but by what they could make it. It was in their hands entirely, and in the future they ought to be able to reply to the query as to whether they were in “this Lodge, or that Society” by proudly saying “No, but we belong to the Returned Soldiers’ League.” Several toasts of varying importance were honored, interspersed by items of songs and recitations, ably rendered by Messrs Bryant, Josephs, Armstrong, McInerney and Haddock. Instrumental music was volunteered by Messrs Campbell, Broadley and Carey. An outstanding event was the presentation to Mr J. Campbell, retiring secretary, by the branch, of a solid gold League medal, in recognition of his willing and efficient work during the past eighteen months. The secretary, Mr MacRae, reminded all present of the branch meeting, held on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of every month, and urgently requested

that all returned men keep those evenings free in order to take part in transacting the business of the branch. Messrs Goodwin and Bickley, in whose hands the catering arrangements had been left, were accorded a cordial vote of thanks for the splendid way in which they carried out their work. A most enjoyable and memorable reunion was brought to a close shortly after 11 o’clock. The next event of social interest will probably take the form of a musical evening and dance, which the close and steadfast ally of the Returned Soldier – the general public – will be asked to support. *** MISS McFarlane, who has been appointed to take charge of the Hume Creek State School, was, prior to her departure, entertained at a social by members of St Paul’s, and was presented with a wallet and £13 in notes. She has been succeeded at Frankston by Miss Cunningham. *** MR Mark Brody reports that the following rainfall has been registered at Frankston:—June, 1.69 points; July, 3.56; total for past 7 months, 16.41. It may be mentioned that the tides are the highest since 1893. The past week is believed to have been the coldest since 1899. Over 100 points fell at Hastings on Wednesday last. *** THE death is announced of Mr Mark Young, who for many years was identified with the Frankston district. He came to Victoria in 1858, and,

with the exception of a short residence in New Zealand, spent his early days in Ballarat. In 1878, he removed to Melbourne, and thence to the Mornington Peninsula, where he displayed great interest and initiative in all public matters. The late Mr Young, who was then licensee of the Pier Hotel, was for many years an active member of the Dandenong, Mornington and Frankston shire councils. *** THE claim made by Miss Florence Oswin and Mrs Robb, of Cowes, and others, against Frank Jeffrey, Kent, England, for £40,000, relative to an alleged breach of contract regarding the sale of certain lands at Bittern, Balnarring, and the Naval Base, has been referred to the Full Court. It was stated that 873 lots were sold for £33,255. *** LIEUT Ray Parer started on his flight around Australia on Wednesday last, but, flying through hail at Macedon, he met with an accident, and had to be conveyed to Mount St Evens Hospital for treatment. Lieut Parer began his flight against the advice of the Commonwealth Meteorologist, Mr Hunt. *** TOMORROW’S umpires will be: Frankston v Dromana, Hunting; Naval Base v Somerville, Hughes; Mornington v Hastings, Bickford. *** AT the last Euchre Party and Dance conducted by the Frankston II’s Football Club the prize winners were: Ladies, Mrs George Dugan; Gents,

Mr Les Hughes; Boobies, Miss Lily Gamble and Mr Sam Wells. The next euchre party takes place next Thursday night. *** A BURGLAR, caught by Mr Claude Bannister, of Westernport, was sentenced to three months imprisonment in Melbourne during the week. *** THE claim made by Henry Wallace, of Porepunkah, against the Orchard Planters Association for the recovery of £240 for blocks on Warrenda Estate, Crib Point, on the grounds of misrepresentation, was heard in the County Court by Judge Wasley, who reserved his decision. *** THE caveat lodged by Mr James Caughey in reference to his father’s will has been withdrawn on £112 being advanced to defray his costs. The case concerned property at Westernport, valued at £1900, which the late James Caughey left to two of his children, without recognition of the rest of the family. *** SPEAKING at the annual meeting of the Nature Photographer’s Club, Mr Jones, of the Department of Agriculture, deprecated the destruction of wattles and orchids in the Frankston district. He said that through the thoughtlessness of orchid hunters, who did not merely pluck the flower, but pulled up the tuber from which it grew and from which the root of the next year’s flower would spring, Victoria was in danger of losing many rare and beautiful orchid varieties.

*** YET another Hastings orchardist steppes into the advance line and replaced waggon and horse team with and up-to-date motor vehicle. Cr Chas Jones annihilates time and space in most care free fashion. Recently he left home on Thursday morning with his motor van full of produce. He delivered its cargo at the Melbourne market, and was back at Somerville at 10.30am the same day, ready to wrestle with the weighty problems of municipal government. Cr Jones and his colleague, Cr H. E. Unthank are now both well provided with means of speedy transit, and should be enthusiastic witnesses in support of the gospel of good roads – and more roads. *** A MOST successful and enjoyable meeting of the Frankston Progress Association was held last week, when after the transaction of routine business, including a report by Cr Wells re railway and other matters. Mr P. Wheeler entertained members with his “Talk about Fiji.” Keen interest was taken in the descriptive story connected with Mr Wheeler’s recent visit to the Islands in question and additional point was given a well told narrative by the display of many curios collected by the speaker during his tour. It is intended to ask Mr Wheeler to repeat his highly interesting lecturette at an early date. *** From the pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 5 August 1921

Mornington News

10 August 2021

PAGE 21

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FRANKSTON CITY ARTS GRANTS NOW OPEN TO INSPIRE CREATIVES FRANKSTON Arts Centre has enhanced its commitment to our arts community with artist grants now open to inspire, nurture and energise our creatives. North East Ward Cr Suzette Tayler said the Artist Project Grants – proudly supported by Frankston City Council – are now open to artists and creatives living, working or with strong connections to Frankston City. Cr Tayler said: “This is a brilliant opportunity to bring a creative project to life. If you have an innovative idea and the capacity to deliver upon your vision we’d love you to apply. “Frankston City Council has continued its commitment to support COVID 19 recovery initiatives as part of its $9.128 million Recovery Package and is proud to support local artists to create work that contributes to our vibrancy, culture and community,” Cr Tayler said. Up to $5,000 will be awarded to six local artists for Artist Project Grants and submissions close on Friday 27 August 2021. For more information, please visit thefac.com. au. Alison Tedesco, who received an Artist Program Grant of up to $4000 in 2020, said the recognition and acknowledgement had

PAGE 22

Mornington News

10 August 2021

provided a huge boost, adding: “It’s certainly been a wonderful blessing as an artist to be supported and encouraged by some amazing facilitators within Frankston City Council. “It has given me a clear direction in my practice, exposed me to invaluable contacts for further art projects and bolstered my passion to continue the journey as a practicing urban landscape artist living in Frankston,” Ms Tedesco said.

THE MEANING OF EXISTENCE... AND OTHER SHORT STORIES

Lockdown Five and a Half: Zeroing In By Stuart McCullough AND so it is. After coming through lockdown five, we find ourselves in lockdown six. To be honest, I don’t think we can say the curtain had completely fallen on lockdown five – if you can’t visit family, you’re still in lockdown, even if can get a flat white at a café. Besides, using the ‘Police Academy Theory of Relativity’, this would put us in ‘City Under Siege’ territory that, although aptly named, holds a zero percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s no easy thing to get a ‘zero’ on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s a rating reserved for pieces of cinematic filth for which no one on the entire planet could find a kind word to say. Movies for which there is no redeeming feature whatsoever. Where critics could not bring themselves to say as much as ‘at least the on set catering was good – half a star’. In that sense, ‘Police Academy Six: City Under Siege’ joins an elite but diverse group of movies, bound together only by their sheer putrescence. ‘Jaws: The Revenge’ worked hard for its zero rating. It followed the spectacularly poor ‘Jaws: 3-D’ which, as the title not so much implies as it does boldly declare, was a three dimensional experience with the notable exception of the script. Let me say right now that I accept that I am partly to blame for the existence of ‘Jaw: The Revenge’ as I am one of the unfortunate few who went and saw ‘Jaws: 3-D’ at the cinema. Forgive me. Amazingly, the film features Michael Caine. Not just someone called ‘Michael Caine’ but the actual, ‘what’sit’s-all-about-Alfie?’ Michael Caine.

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He claims never to have seen the film but has, he says, seen the house it built which he describes as ‘terrific’. It was an opportunity squandered. It would have been better had bits of previous Michael Caine films had been incorpo-

rated into ‘Jaws: The Revenge’. Had it featured a scene where Michael Caine flees the shark while driving a Mini Cooper, a huge, stinking ‘zero’ could have been avoided. If the shark had been blown up, as in the original film,

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it would have given Michael Caine the chance to say, ‘You’re only supposed to blow the bl&@dy doors off!’ That’s the kind of genius cross-promotion the members of the Academy love. Also in this elite list is ‘Look Who’s Talking Now!’, which was the third, highly unnecessary installment so totally devoid of merit that it can only have been dreamed up for tax purposes. Once more, I must take my share of the blame, having borne witness to the preceding ‘Look Who’s Talking Too’ at the cinema. Also in the list is ‘The Ridiculous 6’; an Adam Sandler picture. I haven’t seen it, but I will say that Adam Sandler is capable of great things and I’ve seen lots of his earlier work. There’s a pattern here. One in which I have given creative succor to those who, perhaps, didn’t deserve it. If nothing else, it tells me that I should start making better choices. My choices in lockdown, however, have mostly been pretty good. I guess, in the end, whether this is lockdown five or six probably doesn’t matter that much. Regardless, the question I ask myself is this: will this be the lockdown where the wheels officially come off? For me, there’s been no ‘quarantini’ at the end of the day, nor have I morphed into a ‘before’ picture. With so much chaos, I’ve over-compensated with structure and stopped drinking altogether. I’ve also gotten (properly) dressed every day, without fail. Wearing pyjamas only to slip on a jumper for conference calls doesn’t appeal to me at all. Not one bit. I’m running sixty kilometres a week. Which, with a five-kilometre limit in

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Don’t bet against the house this tax time THE Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is reminding property investors to beware of common tax traps that can delay refunds or lead to an audit costing taxpayers time and money. In 2019–20, over 1.8 million Australians owned rental properties and claimed $38 billion in deductions. Assistant Commissioner Tim Loh said that the most common mistake rental property and holiday homeowners make is neglecting to declare all their income. This includes failing to declare any capital gains from selling an investment property. “To put it simply, you should expect tax consequences for any property that you earn income from that isn’t your main residence.” “We are expanding the rental income data we receive directly from third-party sources

place, means I’m spending a lot of time running in circles. So much so that it’s beginning to effect the way I walk. I am spinning around whenever I move. Say what you will, but it’s offputting to see someone pirouette into a room, even if you’re watching them from the safety of Microsoft Teams. As well as I’ve done to now, everyone has their limit. Will this be the lockdown where I let loose? Having kept it together through structure, maybe I should treat this lockdown differently and, for want of a better way of putting it, let it all hang out. When you spot me at the supermarket, don’t be surprised if all you see in my trolley is ice cream and potato chips. It’s been a long time coming. Having now purchased thirty litres of ‘Ben and Jerry’s Phish Food’ and my own body weight in salt and vinegar, I have barricaded myself indoors where I intend to stay for the rest of the lockdown. Taking up position on the couch, I have just turned on the television. Netflix, in an attempt to be helpful, has selected a range of movies for me to watch based on my viewing preferences. For some reason, these are the only programs I can currently access. Scrolling through, the following movies are in my Netflix list: Police Academy Six: City Under Siege, Jaws: The Revenge, The Ridiculous 6 and Look Who’s Talking Now. It’s official: the chances of me enjoying this latest lockdown are best described as follows – zero. stuart@stuartmccullough.com

such as sharing economy platforms, rental bond authorities, and property managers. We will contact taxpayers about income they’ve received but haven’t included in their tax return. This will mean they need to repay some of their refund. The ATO often allows taxpayers who have made genuine errors to amend their returns without penalty. But deliberate attempts to avoid tax on rental income will see the ATO take action,” Mr Loh said. “People should remember that there’s no such thing as free real estate when it comes to their tax returns. Our data analytics scrutinise returns for rental deductions that seem unusually high. We will ask questions, and this may lead to a delay in processing your return.” “So far we have adjusted more than 70% of the 2019–20 returns selected for a review of rental

information.” “Most people we contact about their rental deductions are able to justify their claims. However, there are instances where we have to knock back claims where taxpayers didn’t keep receipts, claimed for personal use, or claimed for ineligible deductions,” Mr Loh said. We often reject claims for interest charges on personal loan amounts and immediate claims for the full amount for capital works (for example, a kitchen renovation), so it is vital that you have good records. If you take out a loan to buy a rental property and rent it out at market rates, the interest on that loan is deductible. However, if you redraw money from that mortgage for personal use, such as buying a boat, or going on a holiday, you can’t claim the interest on that part of the loan.

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT

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Existing Monopole, 400 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha VIC 3934 Vodafone Ref: 343739, www.rfnsa.com.au/3934017 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: r Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.68m long) with three new combined 4G and 5G panel antennas (2.72m long) on the existing headframe at a height of 33.6 metres r New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts r Reconﬁguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter 2. Vodafone regards the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above 3. Notiﬁcation is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment 4. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Vodafone’s representative c/- Elliot Nelson, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: 0433 347 309; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 5:00pm 1 September 2021.

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10 August 2021

PAGE 25

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MORNINGTON NEWS

From Morpeth to Mount Martha SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie ETHAN Sanderson has come a long way in the last six years. The distance between Morpeth in England’s northeast and Mount Martha is almost 16,895 kilometres. In 2015 he made that journey as the Sanderson family settled in the Mornington Peninsula and it didn’t take long for the youngster to start playing the sport he’d grown up with. “Before we came here I played for my local club back home mainly as a defensive midfielder,” Sanderson said. “Initially I trained with Mornington then we met someone here on the Mount Martha committee who knew friends of ours back home and he told us to come down and have a look around the club.” Sanderson, who turned 19 last Friday, was in his early teens back then and he immediately liked what he saw. “It was very junior orientated but it also had a goal to get a senior side. “With me being in one of the higher (junior) age groups it would be our group that would be the first senior side and I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to get into senior football.” Sanderson’s early career with the local club was successful winning a junior league title and in late 2019 Football Victoria accepted the club’s application to join State League 5. Last season’s shutdown meant that the youngest side in the competition would face its league baptism in 2021 and the introduction to playing senior football has been tough. Sanderson readily acknowledges the challenge Mount Martha faced when coming to terms with playing against men. “It takes you by surprise,” he said. “I’d watched a lot of senior men’s football but once you are actually in the game you realise that there are all these little things that don’t really happen in juniors. “You’ve got be tougher and you’ve got to put up with a little bit of push and shove. “In junior football you’re protected from that but it’s so much different in senior football. “The older guys definitely try and take advantage of you. “They do little things like how they try and hold you up and they try and get inside your head but we’re learning how to deal with it. “We’re starting to give it back which is good.” A watershed moment in the young team’s evolution arrived on Saturday 31 July. Mount Martha was winless on the bottom of State 5 South and although the venue was Civic Reserve, the club’s headquarters, its opponent was fifth-placed Pakenham United which had lost just one of its previous seven games. Yet the locals defied the odds to record their maiden league victory thanks to a Sanderson brace that earned his side a memorable 2-1 result. “It was euphoric, absolutely amazing. “Coming off the pitch there was a massive feeling of relief that we’d finally done it. “All the hard work in training and in games had finally paid off.” It also vindicated the decision by his father Chris, Mount Martha’s head coach, to switch his son from an attacking midfield position into

FFA Cup flashback: Ethan Sanderson in action for Mount Martha in last year’s Cup tie against Shepparton South. Picture: John Punshon

a central striker’s role. Ethan Sanderson admits that there was “a little bit of nagging” involved as he pressed his dad to push him further forward but the relationship between father and son is sound both on the pitch and off. “Basically he’s been my coach since I was nine years old and I quite enjoy it to be honest. “A lot of people naturally think if your dad’s the coach then you’re going to be let off but he’s pretty hard on me. “I always get the talk on the way back from every game about what I could have done better.” And doing things better is on the youngster’s mind. For himself and for his team. “I’d love to get a goal-a-game ratio. “At the minute I’m not far off it but that’s because I’ve missed half the season with injuries. “My left ankle went in our last pre-season game so I missed three games because of that. “Then I had an injury to my knee and I also had an operation. “It’s been pretty frustrating as it’s been stop-start with injuries and now COVID. “I haven’t really had a big run of games under my belt and that’s quite infuriating for me personally.” Yet he sees a positive future for Mount Martha and he wants to play a part. “When you’re on the bottom of the league it can get a bit disheartening but we always knew that this season was going to be a massive learning curve. “We’ve been able to keep our heads up though and there’s a lot of good mates in our team and we socialise a lot which kind of keeps things together. “Off the pitch the club is looking really good. “I believe we’ve been told that we’re getting a new clubhouse built and hopefully that will be done by the end of next season.” By then Sanderson is hoping that he’s achieved his goal-a-game target but he has a team goal in mind too. “I’d like to help take Mount Martha up the league. “I want to play at as high a level as I can but I hope it’s with Mount Martha. “We’ll definitely be in State 5 next season but hopefully because of the progress we’re making as a young team we can finish a lot higher up the league.”

BECOME A CRICKET UMPIRE IT’S YOUR CALL! PAGE 26

Mornington News

10 August 2021

Sudoku and crossword solutions S

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The Mornington Peninsula Cricket Umpires Association (MPCUA) is seeking to recruit both newcomers and experienced umpires to its ranks for the 2021-22 season and beyond – female and male applicants are most welcome. • • • •

Open To New Recruits (Training Provided) Are you an Ex-Player keen to stay involved in the Game? Saturday Afternoons 1 - 7pm Attractive Match Payments

For further details or an expression of interest please contact: Paul Tuff, Director of Umpires – 0417 169 718 paultuff@bigpond.com Garry Seaborne, Secretary – 0422 432 915 garry.j.seaborne@gmail.com

Mornington News

10 August 2021

PAGE 27

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Mornington News

10 August 2021