Southern Peninsula News 14th June 2023

Fish with a message

Mechanical beach raking ‘must end’

Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au

THE machine used to remove “waste” from Mornington Peninsula beaches may itself become a rare sight on or near foreshores.

Although not specifically mentioned in a motion adopted unanimously last month by Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors, Cr David Gill says he wants to end to the use of “the mechanical beach raking machine”. Gill says his motion printed on the 30 May agenda did not mention using the machine because “that would not be allowed on operational grounds” overseen by shire CEO John Baker.

Gill’s reasons for wanting to stop the use of mechanical beach cleaning machines were also left off the agenda and were not discussed by councillors. If he had explained his reasons for wanting the raking machines kept off the beaches Gill would have said they destroy live vegetation; remove washed up seaweed that helps provide biodiversity; break up plastics and glass and buries them under the sand; do not pick up small items like cigarette butts; and kill or remove creatures living in the sand.

The “sanitised” version of his proposal adopted by council reads: “That council policy emphasise an environmentally friendly outcome for cleaning of council controlled beaches and take notice of climate crisis issues involved in some beach cleaning methodology.”

However, in a statement sent to The News, Gill said removing seaweed from beaches was illegal and micro plastics killed marine life.

“Broken needles are found in the sand after beach raking,” he said.

“Nearly all noticeable beach rubbish is left behind by visitors not washed onto our beaches.

“There is no mechanical beach cleaning on the Western Port side of the peninsula and very little need for any cleaning.”

The unanimous adoption of the motion by councillors was made in the same week that the CSIRO released a report that found micro and nano plastics “are pervasive in our food supply and may be affecting food safety and security on a global scale”.

The study shows that plastics and their additives

are present at a range of concentrations not only in fish but in many products including meat, chicken, rice, water, take-away food and drink, and even fresh produce.

Environmental campaigner and the shire’s 2019 Australia Day Citizen of the Year Josie Jones said she collected about 300 grams of macro and meso plastics at Capel Sound beach one day after it was “cleaned” by the mechanical rake on 18 and 22 May.

“The wind and rain revealed more items, the tide does not enter this area and has not since 18 May,” she said.

Jones, who cleans beaches daily, said removing plastic by hand reduced macro and meso plastics. “However, they continue to appear after raking, despite my efforts,” Jones said.

“The only way to stop this cycle is to stop raking and remove the residue, hand clean, and campaign to stop littering and offer a better solution.”

The shire’s climate change and sustainability manager Melissa Burrage said council-managed beaches were cleaned by an external provider under a long term contract.

“A mix of mechanical and hand cleaning is applied, dependent on vehicle access, suitability, and cost,” she said.

“The proportion of beaches cleaned by the two different techniques can be adjusted under council direction, but this will impact the operational cost to council.”

Burrage said an internal working group had been established and a “potential research project is being planned” to “assess and understand the impacts and options for an alternate approach to the cleaning of our beaches”.

On World Oceans Day last week (6 June) Dr Aaron Jenkins of Edith Cowan University and The University of Sydney called for urgent attention to address the links between human health and oceans, while emphasising a precautionary approach was needed to maintain the ecosystem integrity of our oceans.

He said the “urgent call to safeguard our oceans” recognised that “our health, wellbeing, and survival are inextricably linked with the health of the world's oceans”.

IZZY, Winter, Kyri and Lucas with a fish made from recycled plastic lids by students at Our Lady of Fatima, Rosebud. While fun to make and look at, their work carries a serious message about the need to keep plastics away from the ocean.

Visual art teacher and sustainability leader Amanda Heggen said the fish was made by students in years one to six as a way of reminding everyone to keep waste away from waterways so marine life can stay happy and healthy.

No relief for men put out by shed fire

Liz Bell liz@mpnews.com.au

BAXTER Men’s Shed volunteers have been waiting seven months to get back to helping the community and supporting member’s wellbeing and mental health.

The men’s shed had been operating successfully for around eight years until a fire destroyed the workshop in Baxter-Tooradin Road in December. Despite being insured and having had contact with insurance assessors and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council officers, the men’s shed remains in limbo.

Shed president Bill Wood says there were about 80 members at the time of the fire, but that numbers had dropped since COVID restrictions and then its forced closure. He said members were disheartened with the lack of progress.

“We are butting our heads against bureaucracy. We ask the questions but don’t get anywhere – we still don’t know if the building can be repaired or whether it will be demolished,” he said. “It’s like a scene from [the television show] Utopia … our frustration is that no decisions seem to have been made, we are going round and round in circles but not much is getting done.”

Within a couple of days of the fire the building was fenced off and tarps installed over the holes in the roof cause by melted skylights. But the tarps have been destroyed by bad weather and water is now getting in.

The men’s shed contributed to the cost of installing the shed on council land and has not only lost its home but much of its collection of machinery and tools. The charred remains are now a sad and soggy reminder of the oncethriving enterprise.

Wood said the men had not been given any assurances that they would have an alternative place to work on their community projects.

“The frustration we are feeling is as much tied up in lack of communication as it is in no sign of tangible progress,” he said.

“It seems like nothing has been done – the difficulty bounces from one bench to another – insurance and council, meanwhile nothing moves.

“As a result our members can’t participate, and our disabled group that operated here once a week can’t be involved – that’s a huge blow to the social and mental health support that the shed offers.

“Guys don’t always have support networks because they tend to stick to themselves, and this workshop and the shed philosophy of comradeship is essential to give them that.”

The shed also takes on a range of community projects and has built seating for the Hastings foreshore, the community centre garden, bird nesting boxes and garden furniture for schools. Some men also have their own projects.

Club secretary Graham Balmer said about 19 machines had been “written off” by an insurance assessor, but there was still no confirmation of when or what would happen next.

“I think the shire and the insurance people are both dragging their feet,” he said.

“We just want a decision to be made about demolish or rebuild, we want the council to coordinate all this with the insurer – take over the role and get something done.”

Balmer said there seemed to be a stalemate, as there was talk - but no confirmation - that an unused shed in Hastings could be used to store equipment and allow for a proper clean up or demolition.

Wood said the shed wanted to get things happening as soon as possible before other members “drop off and the shed loses momentum”.

The mayor Cr Steve Holland said the delay was due to "having to wait until the contents insurer provided a date for the removal of the group’s belongings".

"Once the contents have been removed, we can do a final assessment on the scope of work involved and provide estimated costs to our insurer for fixing the existing shed or rebuilding it," he said.

"Our property team has been in constant contact with the Baxter Men’s Shed committee and shares their frustrations at this delay. In the meantime, the team is drawing up an agreement for Baxter Men’s Shed to use the former men’s shed at Hastings Hub at no cost."

Fire drill: Baxter men’s shed secretary Graham Balmer with president Bill Wood and treasurer and past president John Heier inside the fire damaged building. Picture: Supplied

Taste Sorrento returns in style

TASTE Sorrento has returned in style! The Opening Gala held on 1 June at The Continental saw a wonderful celebration of the commencement of the month long food and beverage festival.

Guests enjoyed delicious canapes provided by Sardo Sorrento, followed by a delectable three course gourmet feast, produced by The Age Good Food Guide’s Young Chef of the Year, Nicholas Deligiannis, from Audrey’s Restaurant, all paired with superb Rahona Valley wines.

Remy, the Little Chef Rat, has been popping up around town at Taste Sorrento events. Be sure to take a photo with Remy and post it with the tag #wheresremysorrento for a chance to win prizes.

Bring the whole family down to Ritchies Sorrento free Community Fun Day on Saturday 17 June, 108 Ocean Beach Road, from 11am to 2pm. Kids can meet their favourite characters, with Chase making an appearance from 11.00am to 12.30pm, and Bluey will be there from 12.30pm to 2.00pm. They can get their faces painted, enjoy product samples, and take home a fantastic show bag.

Kids of all ages can enjoy decorating an apron for a chance to win some amazing prizes, at the apron decorating workshops being held at the Taste Sorrento Hub, 21 Morce Ave. A small entry fee includes the supply of aprons and art materials, and young creatives can also bring

along their own unique objects to add to their aprons. A grand finale parade of aprons will be held on Sunday 25 June at the Hub, where the winners will be announced.

A Pop-Up Indoor Cinema Children’s Film Night is being held during the school holidays on Friday 30 June at the Hub, with a guest appearance by Remy, and some great giveaways to enjoy. A small entrance fee includes the screening of two movies, ‘Ratatouille’ and ‘Cloudy with a chance of Meatballs’, and yummy snacks provided by Baked in Sorrento. To officially close the month long festival, Hotel Sorrento will host the Finale Dinner on Friday 30 June. The Taste Sorrento Shihuishi Finale Dinner will be a sophisticated

menu, spearheaded by Head Chef Junlin Yi. Guests will encounter the playful, familiar, yet faraway flavours of Cantonese cuisine, and will also be joined by Hotel Sorrento’s Culinary Director George Calombaris. For those seeking an exclusive experience, a chefs table is also on offer. Tickets are limited, and bookings can be made at hotelsorrento.com.au/shi-hui-shi/.

With all these fun activities on offer, why not stay over and take up one of the fantastic deals on offer, staying in Sorrento’s finest accommodation. Head over to the Taste Sorrento website to look at the enticing specials being offered by Hotel Sorrento, Koonya Apartments Sorrento, RT Edgar

Mornington Peninsula, Carmel at Sorrento, and Beach House Rentals. Whether you’re a food lover, a wine enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun event to enjoy with family and friends, Taste Sorrento is the perfect destination for you. So much more than a food and beverage festival.

Taste Sorrento 2023 has something for everyone.

For a comprehensive program guide, visit tastesorrento.com.au.

Taste Sorrento is proudly brought to you by the Sorrento Chamber of Commerce and Business Victoria, and kindly supported by local businesses and organisations, including 3MP, Mornington Peninsula News Group, Infinity Box, TimeOut, and Functioning Together.

Taste Sorrento: Opening Gala Dinner. Photos: Courtesy of Sorrento Chamber of Commerce by CJH Creative

Silver Gold

Bronze Baked in Sorrento | CJH Creative | Community Bank Southern Peninsula | Ritchies Sorrento | Swimwear Galore | Swiss Diamond | Volvo Cars Melbourne

Coastal strategy still ‘two years away’

Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au

A DELAY in starting a coastal strategy for the Mornington Peninsula led to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council receiving $200,000 from the state government.

Despite the amount being less than half the $500,000 being sought, the shire hired consultants in January to “develop” the strategy under a twoyear contract.

Details of the delay and appointment of Alluvium Consulting were outlined in a report to council on 30 May.

The report by water and coasts team leader Laura Crilly was made in response to a call by Cr Anthony Marsh for details of how $175,000 in the shire’s 2021/22 budget and $50,000 in the following year had been spent.

“Is it appropriate that we spend four to four and a half years to write a document which will guide the tasks and actions and things that we do to implement that when most of us won’t be here unless we run for another term?” he told the council’s 5 May meeting (“Strategy ‘coming’ as beaches lost” The News 9/5/23).

Marsh, who did not attend the 30 May meeting, declined to comment on Crilly’s report when contacted last week by The News about the update.

Tenders for the contract were advertised in October and November 2022, with Alluvium being appointed in January this year.

Crilly said the strategy was a “pilot project” to “identify cultural, environmental, heritage and recreation values of coastal areas; review existing hazard data, identify gaps and develop hazard assessments to “inform adaptation planning”. It would also “identify priority

sites requiring adaptation planning and provide foundations to allow for informed adaptation planning in the future”.

An initial $175,000 was allocated in the shire’s 2021/22 budget but the start of the project was delayed so the shire could apply for money from

the state under the guidelines of its Resilient Coast Adapting for 2100+ program, designed to lead the way “in coastal adaptation and resilience planning for the effects of a changing climate”.

The state government subsequently provided $200,000, giving the shire

$425,000 to develop its strategy.

Crilly said the delay “is also timed to ensure that the Port Phillip Bay Coastal Hazard Assessment [due to be released this month June] … is available, as this data is a key part of understanding the region’s coastal hazard exposure”.

That coastal hazard assessment being undertaken by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and looks at the possible extent and impacts of flooding, groundwater change and erosion.

Crilly said “values, vision objectives” for the peninsula’s coastline would be determined over the next two years along with understanding “our coastal hazard risk exposure and identify where our vulnerable and most at risk areas are”.

The knowledge would help “build a case” for asking the state and federal governments for money to “respond to the impacts of climate change”.

”Key elements of the coastal strategy” — including works to manage the impacts of climate change on the coast — would start in 2024.

Meanwhile, coastal works already being investigated or worked on include the instability of the Beleura cliff path at Mornington; replacing the retaining wall at Fishermans Beach, Mornington; the Hastings foreshore master plan; sections of the Peninsula Trail (Anthonys Nose and Whitecliffs); car park at Canadian Bay, Mount Eliza; a stormwater outfall at Portsea; and several foreshore camping services.

LAST Wednesday’s higher-than-normal tide illustrated at Hastings just how close to being overwhelmed some seawalls are by increasing sea levels. Picture: Yanni

Journalists: Keith Platt, Liz Bell, Brodie Cowburn Ph: 5974 9000. Email: team@mpnews.com.au

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Permanent paid parking to depend on trial results

ELECTRONIC permits issued during a nine-month paid parking trial will be linked to individual licence plates to prevent them being shared.

The plan to charge visitors to the Mornington Peninsula for parking in foreshore areas has sparked a hostile reaction from many residents, despite other Port Phillip bayside councils already having paid parking in place.

While the trial will begin in summer and run for at least six months, the shire says it will use feedback and results to decide whether to make it permanent.

The shire has allocated $1.16 million over two budgets to pay for the paid parking trial and major projects coordination team leader Marcus Harris has told councillors that he expects fees collected during the trial will cover its cost.

Under the trial, all permits will be ePermits available to people who live on the peninsula, including renters, or who own a home in the shire that is not being rented out. Eligibility for ePermits will be based on evidence such as a utility bill, lease agreement, rates notice or vehicle registration. There will be no stickers or other physical permits issued.

Each household is eligible for a maximum of five permits, one per vehicle, and each ePermit will be linked to an individual vehicle licence plate.

The mayor Cr Steve Holland said

the shire had not estimated how many permits it would need to issue and was still working to finalise the ePermit system.

He said residents or holiday home owners need only apply for an ePermit if they intend to park at Sunnyside North beach, Mount Eliza, Flinders pier or the car park at Schnapper Point, Mornington during the trial period.

The parking fee will be based on an hourly rate of $6.20, and even residents with permits who park in the three trial areas will have to observe

time limits.

Cr Holland also rejected suggestions the shire would eventually implement paid parking for residents.

“This is an opportunity for residents and visitors to continue to share our foreshores while more fairly distributing the costs of maintaining these areas,” he said.

To understand more about the Visitor Paid Parking Pilot look at the FAQs on the shire webpage at mornpen.vic.gov.au/paidparkingpilot

Liz Bell

THE car park at Schnapper Point, near the pier at Mornington is popular in all weathers and is one of three parking areas where paid parking will be trialled by Mornington Peninsula Shire. Picture: Keith Platt

Radio comes alive on stage

COMEDIAN and playwright Don Jones has been mentoring members of Sorrento Portsea Senior Citizens Centre who have been winning audience approval for their onstage performances.

The “visual radio play” Gunfight at the Cocoa Corral was performed on Saturday 27 May at Sorrento Activity Centre to a packed house that immediately led to a booking of the group by Tootgarook Senior Citizens.

Calling themselves the Limelighters, the Sorrento Portsea group will perform Seniors Behaving Badly at 10am on Friday 7 July at Tootgarook Senior Citizens Centre.

The group began last year with a production of Cinderella.

“We are a small group of seniors in their 70s and 80s who have got together to have fun through these productions,” John Cain said. “Lyn Durkin is the founder of the group and a real livewire. We are performing variety shows and plays. This current show is based on the old radio plays.”

In a review of Gunfight at the Cocoa Coral “theatre critic” Graeme Davie described the Sorrento Activities Centre as being filled with “excited and curious audience members … about to witness a radio play written and directed by local comedy entertainer Don Jones”.

“The basic premise is that the actors seen on stage are ‘radio actors’ who portray the characters in each story using their voice and facial expressions,” Davie said.

“The actors stand in front of microphones, rather than moving around on a set. They dress in costumes to represent each character. Audience members watching and listening to the show are transported to a time when the whole family would gather around the radio to enjoy their favourite program.”

Radio host Dick Herne (Don Jones) announces that Gunfight at the Cocoa Coral is “brought

Acting out: Edna Stebbing (Calamity Jane), Barbara Beech (Lily Languish), Deirdre Linkins (Molly Parton), John Cain (Tex), Prue MacDonald (Lynda LaPanti), Maureen Frances (Ellie May Parton), Ian MacDonald (Wild Bill Hiccup) and Don Jones (Dick Hearn). Picture: Lyn Soligo

to you by Radio FRT in conjunction with the Limelight Theatre Group and sponsored by Razorsharp and Scourette”.

The play is “interrupted” with community announcements and adverts.

Gunfight, set in the wild west with Wild Bill Hiccup (Ian MacDonald) portrayed “as a sort of mild mannered John Wayne”, Ellie May Parton (Maureen Frances) “a not so dizzy blonde”, Lynda LaPanti (Prue McDonald) owner of the Cocoa Coral saloon, Tex (John Cain), Lily

Choir with brass backing

THE Mornington Peninsula-based Australian Welsh Male Choir will be performing at the Edge Theatre in Melbourne's Federation Square at 7.30pm on Saturday 24 June.

The choir will be appearing with and accompanied by the award-winning Darebin CityPreston Brass Band under the direction of Tom Buchanan OAM.

“We love meeting our audiences,” choir president Ian Mackie said. “[They can] join us after our performance at the Edge Bar and meet our choristers and musicians and experience a great Welsh music tradition, the afterglow.”

The will celebrate its 50th anniversary next Bold as Brass is the first of several concerts the Australian Welsh Male Choir is performing in the lead-up to next year’s 50th Birthday Outback Tour.

The tour will see the choir sing in pubs, community halls, village greens, Indigenous communities, the Desert Song Festival in Alice Springs, Parliament House, Canberra and the Sydney Opera House.

Tickets for Bold as Brass can be bought at: eventbright/australianwelsh/boldasbrass

New male choir

Languish (Barbara Beech), Molly Parton (Lyn Durkin) and Ellie May's mother, the whip cracking Calamity Jane (Edna Stebbing).

Ann Fitch plays the piano and sound effects are provided by the radio host bursting paper bags and balloons for gunshots.

“I find that I have only one critique to add, and that is there was only one performance of this fun funny play, it deserves a longer run,” Davie wrote.

Keith Platt

PENINSULA Chamber Musicians have created a male choir to back Canberra-born, internationally acclaimed mezzo-soprano Katrina Waters, now a Mornington Peninsula resident, when she performs Brahms’ Alto Rhapsody Op 53 and Stars That Split The Night by Melbourne composer Katy Abbott next Sunday.

The concert, Rhapsodies, is at Padua College’s year-old performing arts centre, Oakbank Road, Mornington, at 2pm on Sunday 18 June.

Other items on the program include Debussy’s Premiere Rhapsodie (Paul Jenkins clarinet soloist), Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue (Ben Martin piano soloist) and Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody.

Tickets: trybooking.com/events/landing/960674

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day – 15 June

There’s no excuse for elder abuse

Elder abuse is any act which harms an older person and is carried out by someone they trust, such as a partner, family member, friend or carer. It can be physical, social, financial, psychological or sexual and can include mistreatment and neglect. Warning signs may include an older person appearing fearful, anxious or isolated. There may be injuries, or an absence of personal care. Disappearance of possessions, unexplained financial transactions, and changes to legal documents are also of concern.

For more information, drop by our pop-up information stall for a chat and to pick up some free resources:

Thursday 15 Jun 10am – 2pm Rosebud Plaza, McCombe Street, Rosebud

If you or someone you know are experiencing elder abuse, help is available:

1800 ELDERHelp 1800 353 374

Seniors Rights Victoria 1300 368 821 seniorsrights.org.au

The refugee experience

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council is recognising Refugee Week (19 to 23 June) by hosting an event to share the sacrifices and experiences of migrants who have settled in Australia.

Two young people from the Centre for Multicultural Youth will share their experiences of surviving adversity and arriving as refugees in Australia.

One of them is Sina Zahedi, who arrived in Australia in 2006 after escaping ethnic persecution in wartorn Afghanistan. As the oldest child, Zahedi, who now studies science at Melbourne University and works in banking, had to take on numerous responsibilities beyond his age to help his parents and siblings navigate through obstacles and adversities.

The other speaker, Shadab Safa, arrived in Australia as a refugee from Pakistan in 2009. Now a motivational speaker, small business owner and commerce student, Safa has spoken to schools across Victoria on the topics of gratitude, self-belief, entrepreneurship and multiculturalism with the aim of inspiring students to strive to become the best versions of themselves.

Through his story of struggle, Safa aims to give his listeners a renewed sense of hope, evoke a deep sense of gratitude and empower them to look within themselves for what it takes to be better equipped and ready for the future.

The theme for Refugee Week is “finding freedom”, with the aim of raising awareness of the issues affecting refugees, highlighting aspects of their refugee experiences and helping

SHADAB Safa will talk on his experiences as a refugee who fled his homeland and found safety and purpose in Australia.

the broader community understand what it is like to be a refugee.

Refugee Week has been celebrated in Australia since 1986.

The mayor Cr Steve Holland said Refugee Week was a unique opportunity for everyone to experience and celebrate the diversity of refugee communities through storytelling.

“Mornington Peninsula is a proud signatory of the Refugee Welcome Zone Commitment, and Mornington Peninsula Shire has been a refugee safe zone since 2013,” he said.

“We hope that this event will improve understanding between our different communities here on the peninsula.”

The free event is at the Mornington Library on 20 June at 6pm and is suitable for all ages. Refreshments provided. Book at: mornpen.vic.gov.

au/refugeeweek

Medal makes for memorable lunch

Picture and words Barry Irving

WHAT was planned to be a simple catch-up lunch at Frankston RSL with a couple of friends turned into a pleasant surprise for Ray and Lorraine Headspeath.

At the lunch were president of Rye Sports and Social Club Gary Gillies with Jean Gillies, retiring vice-president Bobby Martin and Sue and Barry Irving.

Following lunch Gary Gillies presented Ray Headspeath with a life

membership medal in recognition of his 14 years of service. Hey also received a framed certificate and a framed plaque to recognise his contribution and service to Rye clubs.

Ray gave freely of his time and expertise to many groups during his time in Rye, most notably the sports and social club and Rye RSL, where he served nearly 20 years on the committee as a member and treasurer.

“His dedication to veterans and welfare work has been invaluable to us in achieving the aims of the Rye RSL,”

president John Wilson said.

Ray retires as treasurer at the half yearly general meeting on 18 June.

He has held the positions of committee member and treasurer for the sports and social club, driving from Warragul to Rye on the day of the Rye Gift over the past few years.

Wilson said Ray was a “people’s person with great respect and concern for all around him”. His contribution to these clubs and many other organisations in the area had been “outstanding”.

Frankston line sky rail works brought forward

Brodie Cowburn brodie@mpnews.com.au

THE state government has moved the construction of rail bridges on the Frankston line between Mordialloc and Aspendale forward by three years.

of schedule, but we’re not stopping here.”

Register returns: Mornington

Police Senior Community Register volunteers recently met for a lunch catch-up at Mornington Community House and are happy to be back “on the job” of looking out for the older, vulnerable members of the community.

Picture: Yanni

Seniors’ register offers reassurance

THE well-worn saying “it takes a village to raise a child” has been adapted as the philosophy behind the Mornington Police Senior Community Register.

Volunteers who run the register from Mornington Police Station have recently reopened their office after being closed for more than two years due to COVID.

The register, a police initiative, is run by volunteers who visit or contact

aged, frail or isolated clients to check on their wellbeing.

The register aims to ease the fears of elderly residents of being victims of crime by promoting its “confident and secure living” strategy.

When joining the register, a client will receive a numbered identity card which they are asked to always carry. The service is free, and registration is voluntary.

Members receive an information

newsletter three times a year.

Coordinator Yvonne Morrison said the home security checks and regular contact were reassuring for members and their families.

While visits were considered “social”, they allowed clients to also discuss any concerns they may have. There are also opportunities for clients to enjoy social connections.

For more details call 5970 4983.

The level crossings at McDonald Street, Mordialloc and Station Street, Aspendale is now targeted to be replaced with sky rail by 2026. The crossings were originally scheduled to be removed by 2029, along with all other remaining Frankston line level crossings.

The level crossing at Bear Street, Mordialloc will also be removed by 2026, with a redeveloped Mordialloc station expected to open that year as well.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan confirmed that the Mordialloc project would be “fasttracked”, and said that seven more level crossings along the line are still scheduled to be removed by 2029.

“We haven’t wasted a single moment and we’ll continue getting rid of these dangerous and congested level crossings ... we’re announcing the fast-tracking removal of another three sets of boom gates in Mordialloc,” she said last week.

“We’ve removed 27 Frankston line level crossings on budget and ahead

Community consultation on the design of the Mordialloc level crossing removals is still yet to take place. In a statement, the state government said “there will be pop-up community events in Mordialloc for people to ask questions and find out more information”.

“Early geotechnical investigations have already started in the area, with bore holes and surveys being carried out to inform the detailed design of the project. Planning and design will continue through 2023, with more chances for locals to have their say. Construction will start in 2024, and the project will work closely with locals during this time,” the state government said.

Mordialloc MP Tim Richardson said “fast-tracking the removal of the dangerous and congested level crossings in Mordialloc is a gamechanger for the area”.

Further down the Frankston line, the train stabling capacity at Kananook is expected to double. The state government has confirmed that the capacity of the storage site will increase from eight trains to 21. It has handed out a $271 million contract to begin works on the project.

LIFE member Ray Headspeath with Bobby Martin and Gary Gillies.

Soft landing for the mattress dilemma

Liz Bell liz@mpnews.com.au

TEN years ago, Luke Cooper was having trouble finding a convenient and affordable way to dispose of old mattresses when he was struck with the realisation there was a gap in the market that he could fill.

But even better than filling a need, was the fact that he could create a business that was actually good for the environment by keeping tonnes of components out of landfill every year.

It was a slow and costly process to build his dream, but 10 years later the former mattress salesman’s mattress and furniture recycling company Bedrecycle is one of the Mornington Peninsula’s business success stories.

“It was a dream that grew out of a need, but I believed in it and to date we have processed thousands of mattress and bed bases and kept tonnes of waste from ending up in the environment,” Cooper said. “I’m pretty happy with that, it’s a good feeling to find a niche that has a purpose and a positive impact.”

Cooper, who lives in Mount Martha, says nearly the entire mattress or bed base can be stripped down to its parts to ensure as much material can be recycled as possible. The wood is packaged and sold as kindling, the foam used to make other products, the crushed springs going to scrap metal and other parts used for carpet underlay.

His recycling team drives all over Melbourne, and sometimes beyond, to bring mattresses to the company’s Somerville plant for processing. There are plans to take the business interstate.

Sustainability Victoria estimates that around 300,000 mattresses are disposed of in Victoria every year;

across the country that figure grows to around 1.8 million. A large percentage go to landfill, where it can take more than 100 years to break them down.

About 100,000 mattresses are illegally dumped each year, leaving municipal councils to deal with them and pass costs on to ratepayers.

But governments are getting tough

on waste, and strong state and federal regulations have been introduced mandating that producers take stewardship of the recycling of their products, including mattresses.

In November, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek added the mattress industry to the Product Stewardship Priority List, putting the onus on the

mattress industry to lessen the environmental impact of its products.

Cooper says there is still a long way to go, but his company “will keep going, one mattress at a time”.

Most councils, including Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, also offer mattress recycling services.

Daniel Hinson, the shire’s circular

Recovery from stroke a matter of timing

MELBOURNE grandmother Jacqueline Wilson has been reunited with one of the Mornington Peninsula paramedics who saved her life after she suffered a stroke one year ago.

On June 5 last year the then 55-year-old suddenly collapsed in the driveway while on a supposedly relaxing weekend away in McCrae while caring for her disabled cousin.

When she regained consciousness, she was unable to talk or move her right side. Wilson said her main concern was the wellbeing of her cousin whose motorised wheelchair had tipped, causing her to fall.

Her husband, Bill, said luck was on their side that day as neighbours saw her on the ground and the upturned wheelchair and quickly called triple zero.

“There are a lot of holiday houses and not many people around but the neighbours happened to be out the front,” he said.

“Half an hour earlier she would have been passed out inside and half an hour later she would have been driving. We’re very lucky.”

Despite experiencing one of the scariest moments of her life, Wilson said she felt safe while she and her cousin were treated by Ambulance Victoria paramedics and taken to hospital.

Bill was at home in Epping when the incident happened and said from the moment he answered the paramedic’s call he knew his wife was in safe hands.

“They were fantastic to me in the hospital and they reassured me that everything was going to be okay,” he said.

“While your head is spinning a million miles an hour, they create a sense of calm.”

After three days in Monash Medical Centre, Jacqui was able to return home without requiring rehab, with Bill saying she is the same woman she’s always been.

“The fact the paramedics did their job so beautifully means I have my wife next to me, the only thing that’s changed is sometimes a word doesn’t come through,” he said.

Ambulance Victoria’s acting senior team manager Bec Michau said every minute mattered when treating a stroke patient.

“When a person experiences a stroke about two million brain cells die every minute, so time is of the essence and every second counts,” she said. “Time saved is brain saved.”

economy and waste team leader, said mattresses are recycled on-site at the shire’s resource recovery centres by separating the metal components, fabric and timber components. The metal springs are sent for metal recycling, but the residual fabric and timber is taken to landfill.

Shire signs up with business lobby group

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire has joined the Committee for Mornington Peninsula as a community member in a bid to attract more government money and be a “collective” voice for the region.

The committee promotes itself as an independent, member-based organisation committed to leading and influencing long-term outcomes for the peninsula.

CEO Josh Sinclair says the committee works “beyond electoral cycles and partisan politics” to enhance social, economic and environmental sustainability to improve the region's liveability, growth and sustainability.

The mayor Cr Steve Holland said the quest to get a better deal for the peninsula was what “we have in common”.

“As a council, we’re committed to achieving long-term outcomes for the peninsula, and this partnership will amplify our call for additional state and federal government funding, policy attention and investment to our region,” he said.

"We have many common objectives within the committee and the shire, and we look forward to working together to help make those goals a reality.

"A strong collective voice is exactly what this region needs, and the partnership between the shire and the committee enhances that.”

Cr Anthony Marsh said while the peninsula was an amazing place to live and a great place to work “our residents and businesses don’t always have the support they need”.

“Through our joint advocacy work, we hope to shine a light on this lack of attention and provide small businesses the support they need,” he said.

Sinclair said peninsula residents were “ignored” when it came to infrastructure investment and incentivising business and economic development in the region.

VICTORIA Ambulance officer Peter Fuller with Jacqueline Wilson, who he first met when responding to an emergency call to help a stroke victim. Picture: Yanni

Nominations open for 2023 Business Excellence Awards

BUSINESSES on the Mornington Peninsula can now enter in the 2023 Business Excellence Awards, back for a second year after a hugely successful inaugural event in 2022. This initiative, delivered by Mornington Peninsula Shire, aims to support the local business community and celebrate their achievements in business excellence, innovation and sustainability.

Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to get involved, share their accomplishments and receive recognition for their hard work. This is an excellent opportunity to promote the outstanding work your business does in your industry, give your team a morale boost, raise your profile and reputation and increase brand awareness.

Any business located within the Mornington Peninsula Shire municipality is eligible to enter, whatever their business size. Businesses can enter via an online form with questions to demonstrate why their business is the best in its field. Entry into the Awards is free.

Entries close and shortlisting begins on Monday August 14th. Businesses who have been shortlisted will be announced on August 29th during a breakfast event hosted at the Chisholm Rosebud Campus. Shortlisted businesses will then go on to receive an on-site visit from the judges so as to validate their submission answers and gain more insight into the business.

Businesses can submit a nomination under one of nine different industry categories. The business with the highest scoring individual application across the nine categories as determined by the judging panel will also be awarded the title of Business of the Year.

The inaugural awards in 2022 saw over 100 nominations and over 200 local businesspeople and their supporters come together to celebrate at the sold-out gala event in October at the Mornington Racecourse. This year, finalists and winners will be announced at the highly anticipated gala ceremony and dinner on

November 15th at RACV Cape Schanck.

The nine 2022 category winners included: Two Bays Brewing (Agriculture and Manufacturing), Little Woodworkers (Creative), Atticus Regional Medicentre (Health and Community), Red Gum BBQ (Hospitality and Business of the Year), Prof Consulting Group (Professional Services), Talking Hens (Retail), The Peel Thing (Start Up), Moonraker Dolphin Swims (Tourism) and Dunton Group Electrical Services (Trade, Building and Construction).

When asked what bringing home a Business Excellence Award meant for them, here is what

the 2022 winners of the Professional Services and Health and Community categories shared:

“Being recognised as a winner in the recent awards brings further credibility and increased brand awareness of our business to the region. We hope this will enable us to help more local businesses benefit from our services and grow.” – Mark Field, CEO and Founder of Prof Consulting Group “Winning this award really does help to bolster our fortitude in providing an outstanding, innovative health and social service to the local community on the

Peninsula. That people have recognised the dedication of the whole team, is humbling and inspiring, all at once. Thank you.” Dr Floyd Gomes, GP, Director and Founder of Atticus Health

To find out more, access Frequently Asked Questions and submit a nomination visit: mpbusiness.com.au/businessawards

The 2023 Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards are supported by MP News Group, MP Magazine, 3MP and Chisholm Institute.

The team at Atticus Health (Hastings) took home a 2022 Business Excellence Award in the Health and Community category. Photo: supplied

MAXIMISE YOUR RESULT WITH THE RIGHT ADVICE CALL US FOR AN ASSESSMENT TODAY

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METICULOUS CRAFTSMAN-BUILT HOME

WITH outstanding aspects looking across to Arthur’s Seat from its elevated position, located only minutes to the Rosebud foreshore and set on approx. 800m2 comes this craftsman-built builder’s home.

With northerly and easterly aspects, the light filled home offers 4 bedrooms, main with en-suite, formal / informal living zones, rumpus room and renovated fully equipped kitchen with waterfall stone benches, Smeg appliances, double drawer dishwasher, and breakfast bar.

HOME ESSENTIALS

The home is serviced by reverse cycle air-conditioning throughout, new ducted heating, hot water service, separate air-conditioning in the kitchen and second living area, remote under house double garage with internal access, (alarm security currently not connected), keyless entry, ducted vacuum and masses of under house storage. Outdoors provides fully landscaped grounds, multiple undercover entertaining areas, expansive eco decking and a newly constructed weatherboard structure suitable for

ADDRESS: 84 Seventh Avenue, ROSEBUD AUCTION: Saturday 15 July, 2:00pm

a future bungalow and or storage. This house was built with meticulous quality and sits proudly in one of the most sought after streets in beachside Rosebud.

Currently being used as a holiday home / AirBnB with great all year round returns with the potential of approx $45,000 and weekly rental exp $650pw.n

DESCRIPTION: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car, 776sqm

AGENT: Craig Leo, Barry Plant Rosebud, 0412 502 938, 1/28 McCombe Street, Rosebud, (03) 5986 8880

Rosebud 3/834 Point Nepean Road

Absolute beachfront renovated apartment.

Featuring a cool 1950’s facade and located on an absolute beachfront position comes this outstanding opportunity / investment. Offering 2 bedrooms, updated kitchen & renovated bathroom. Featuring high ceilings, hardwood floors, repainted throughout, new lighting and serviced by reverse cycle air conditioning make this supremely located residence the perfect weekender and or holiday let. The opportunity also exists to keep the property fully furnished so holiday letting can commence immediately or for you to use as a lock and leave holiday home from the get go. Off street parking and quick access to the beach. Expect Rental return of $390 pw or $250 per night short stay.

2 1

Auction Saturday 15 July 12:30pm

Onsite & Online

INSPECT

By Appointment

CONTACT

Craig Leo 0412 502 938

Thomas Solunto 0401 872 780

Barry Plant Rosebud 5986 8880

The Guide

TOP PICKS OF THE WEEK

SUNDAY GRAND DESIGNS REVISITED

ABC TV, 7.30pm

Kevin McCloud has seen a lot of houses in his more than 20 years as presenter of this aspirational architecture series, but none are more memorable than tonight’s spectacular failure. The bemused host obviously couldn’t resist the invitation to see what has transpired at North Devon’s seafront spectacle, which saw Edward Short say goodbye to millions of pounds, as well as his marriage. More than 10 years after visiting the unfinished “dream” project, he returns to find out its fate.

SATURDAY

DJANGO

SBS VICELAND, 9.25pm

Thanks to Yellowstone, Westerns are having a modernised resurgence, but this 10-part creation sticks to convention. Taking Sergio Corbucci’s classic 1966 spaghetti western as loose inspiration, this tale sees its mostly European cast get bloody. Matthias Schoenaerts (Red Sparrow, right) is the titular cowboy with no fear, who comes to the town of New Babylon, where he finds his long-lost daughter Sarah (Lisa Vicari).

THURSDAY THE FIRST INVENTORS

TEN/NITV, 8.40pm

Tune in for this stirring four-part new doco honouring and examining the world’s longest surviving culture: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Rob Collins (Total Control) is the charming presenter of this engrossing journey, which reveals just how this ancient culture gave science to the world. The groundbreaking series builds on a partnership between NITV and Network 10 – they cocomissioned this educational and stunningly shot story. It kicks off tonight, unearthing what it would be like to live in Australia 65,000 years ago.

SUNDAY DANCING WITH THE STARS

SEVEN, 7pm

Dance like no one is watching, they say. But in this star-studded competition –returning for a fresh season of everything from a possible rumba to perhaps even a spot of breakdancing – everyone’s eyes will be peeled. From the sparkling costumes and enthusiastic moves to every step,

Thursday, June 15

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Inside Sydney Airport: Emergency Exercise. (M)

8.30 Putin And The West: A Dangerous Path. (M) Part 3 of 3.

9.35 Normal People. (MA15+) Connell joins Marianne’s social circle.

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Catch And Release. (Mal)

11.45 Miniseries: Algiers Confidential. (MA15+as, R)

3.25 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage of the match.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 14. Port Adelaide v Geelong.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 Fantasy Island. (Ma) A music star wants to be anonymous.

12.30 The Goldbergs. (PGl, R) The Goldbergs organise a holiday card.

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 RBT. (Mdl, R) Follows the activities of police units.

8.30 Paramedics. (Mam, R) A MICA paramedic faces a grim scenario when a great-grandfather’s lung collapses.

9.30 Casualty 24/7. (Mm) A 59-yearold could have serious injuries.

10.30 Nine News Late.

11.00 A+E After Dark. (Mlm, R)

11.50 The First 48. (Malv, R) 12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGa) The remaining contestants compete in Curtis Stone’s condiment cook-off.

8.40 The First Inventors. Part 1 of 4. Rob Collins looks at the unique survival inventions that let Australia’s First Nations people thrive.

9.50 Soccer. International Friendly. Australia v Argentina.

12.30 The Project. (R)

5.30 7.30. (R)

Drum. (R)

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

(R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory.

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

CBS Mornings.

Pia Miranda appears on Dancing With The Stars.

7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? John Waters. (Final, PG)

8.30 Insight. Presented by Kumi Taguchi.

9.30 Dateline: The School For Macho Men. A look at a Colombian school for men.

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 The Point: Referendum Road Trip. (R)

11.30 Pandore. (Maln) 12.35 Hope. (MA15+av)

1.40 Partisan. (Maln, R) 3.30 Miniseries: The Walk-In. (Mals, R) 4.20 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

Wednesday, June 21

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Utopia. (PG)

8.30 Gruen. (Return) Presented by Wil Anderson.

9.10 In Limbo. (Mal) Charlie pursues the money trial.

9.35 Queen Of Oz. (Premiere, Ml)

Princess Georgiana arrives in Australia.

10.10 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R)

10.40 ABC Late News. 10.55 The Business.

(R) 11.10 Ragdoll. (Final, MA15+av, R) 11.55

Father Brown. (Final, Mv, R) 12.45 Parliament

Question Time. 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 4.30 The Drum.

(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 History Of The Sitcom: Sex And The Sitcom. (M) Explores the revolution of sex in sitcoms.

8.30 The Mayfair Hotel Megabuild.

(M) Part 3 of 3. With the mega-build shell nearing completion, the final touches are put in place.

9.35 Blue Lights. (Malv) Mo’s side deal goes ahead.

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 The Congregation. (MA15+s)

11.55 The Promise. (Mal, R) 2.05 La Fortuna. (Ml, R) 4.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 5.00

NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)

7.30 Million Dollar Island. (PGal) Hosted by Ant Middleton.

9.00 The Rookie. (Mv) John and Celina investigate a cash deposit linked to an old

10.00

6.00

7.00

7.30

Hosted by Allison Langdon.

9.10 West Gate Bridge Disaster: The Untold Stories. (PGal, R) The families of victims and survivors of Melbourne’s West Gate Bridge disaster share their stories.

10.10 Nine News Late. A look at the latest news and events.

10.40 Chicago Med. (MA15+am)

11.30 See No Evil: Silent Screams. (Ma)

12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.20 Explore. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGal) Three contestants compete to avoid elimination.

8.40 The Cheap Seats. (Mal) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

9.40 NCIS. (Mv, R) A petty officer is accused of theft.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG) Follows dog trainer Graeme Hall.

8.30 The Front Bar. (M) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Accused. (Mav, R) A limo driver goes down a dark path.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (Madv, R)

12.30 Absentia. (MA15+asv, R)

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 Rugby League. State Of Origin. Game 2. Queensland v New South Wales.

10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A wrap-up of the State of Origin clash.

11.00 Nine News Late. A look at the latest news and events.

11.30 The Equalizer. (MA15+av, R)

12.10 Council Of Dads. (PGa, R)

1.00 Bondi Lifeguard World Adventures. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGa) Contestants compete in a Greek service challenge at The National Gallery of Victoria’s Temple of Boom.

8.40 So Help Me Todd. (PG) Margaret and Todd discover that their two unrelated cases have a shocking link.

10.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

1.30 The Goldbergs. (PGl, R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

Capel Sound 25 Flamingo Road

Original home on blue chip site.

Set in an enviable location, a 10-minute flat walk to the sparkling foreshore and close to the Vern Wright Reserve, West Rosebud Bowls Club and leash free dog park is this original beach home set on a flat and potentially subdividable (STCA) allotment of 725sqm approx. The modest home comprises of three bedrooms all with built in robes, kitchen with electric cooker, central bathroom, rear sunroom and benefits from split system heating and cooling. Outside is a large veggie patch and garden with shedding for storage needs. With approximate dimensions of 18.5 meter frontage and 39 meter depth, the site lends itself to a side by side or front to back development of two dwellings (STCA). Alternatively, the existing home could be renovated to use yourself as an escape from the city or rental property. Being is such a sought-after location, close to beach, shops, schools and public transport, this home will appeal to developers, holiday home hunters, first home buyers alike.

3 1

AUCTION

Saturday 8 July 3:30pm

Onsite & Online

INSPECT

By Appointment

CONTACT

Paul Cunnington 0457 047 962

Thomas Solunto 0401 872 780

Barry Plant Rosebud 5986 8880

Retreat House - Nestled in Nature

FOR SALE - 96 Clipper Quay, Safety Beach

Luxurious Waterfront Living

Jimtom presents this perfectly poised, artfully crafted new waterfront residence in Martha Cove. The exterior exudes a sense of lightness, sophistication and calm. Large expanses of glass provide a feeling of spaciousness, bringing the outdoors in. White steel doors and windows funnel an abundance of natural light which contrasts against recurring elements of French tile cladding, timber and glass. The elevated infinity pool allows for uninterrupted views across the waterway and beyond.

ONE AGENCY PENINSULA

FOR SALE - 68 Flinders Street, McCrae

Impressive Panoramic Views

Enjoy the stunning bay views from all rooms in this quality built and stylish, immaculately presented home. A stunning leafy outlook in a beautiful setting along with impressive bay views from all angles of the main living area, kitchen and spacious dining areas, expansive undercover balcony, light filled study, as well as the luxurious master bedroom suite. Built across the 1500 sqm block this desirable home sits elevated in a position to capture a large part of the bay.

Luxurious Beachside Convenience

Be impressed by this well located, stylish and luxurious townhouse of approximately 248sqm plus oversized garage. This well built quality home offers generous proportions throughout with downstairs kitchen, living, and master suite plus dining that connects to the partly undercover alfresco area complete with built in pizza oven.

“Plantation House”

Plantation House is a well established, successful traditional B&B on 1180 sqm, that offers luxurious suites in a beautiful landscaped setting a short stroll from the stunning local beach. Offering 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and multiple living and dining areas, this outstanding property could be taken over and continue to be ran as Plantation House, or alternatively, used as a permanent home or holiday home for the larger family wanting to enjoy the desirable Mornington Peninsula.

ONE TEAM ONE PENINSULA ONE CHOICE

Voice debate should ‘remain civil, open and … respectful’

I have been made aware that Willum Warrain Aboriginal Association is concerned by my reference to them when addressing the Indigenous Voice to Parliament in my speech in parliament on 22 May (“Elders ‘misrepresented’” Letters 6/6/23).

In my speech, I said: “Today, the Indigenous people of the Mornington Peninsula include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders from across the nation. It makes for a warm, inclusive, wise, curious and open community with remarkable cultural leaders, like Peter Aldenhoven and Lionel Lauch, and those who embody that warmth and welcome in their every breath, like Uncle John McLean and Aunty Helen Bnads. I’m grateful for their advice and guidance, as I am to those who have agreed to meet with me across Flinders to discuss their passions regarding the Voice on all sides and from all perspectives.”

This was an expression of gratitude to these remarkable people who do so much for Indigenous cultural understanding across the peninsula. It was also an expression of my personal gratitude to those who were willing to share their time with me and explain to me their passion and hope of what a Voice might achieve.

It was not a misrepresentation of their position on the Voice, which I know to be one of support. These individuals agreed to meet, when many more organisations and individuals did not, despite my repeated attempts. For that reason, I thanked them publicly.

It is important that this debate remain civil, open, and to the extent possible, respectful both of words and intentions. This is a commitment I make to the debate, and hope others will do likewise.

Zoe McKenzie, MP for Flinders

Walk supported Voice

First I’d like to say thank you to The News for providing a forum for both [Willum Warrain CEO] Peter Aldenhoven and [Flinders MP] Zoe McKenzie to write about their support or not for the Voice (“Make reconciliation a shared journey” and “A risk to executive government” 30/5/23).

It was good to hear from Peter, the Indigenous CEO of Willum Warrain, the Aboriginal gathering place in Hastings. As Zoe suggests, an open and respectful discussion is what we need to encourage people to make informed choices about the Voice.

I understand she only met the Willum Warrain crew twice and had not made the time to consult with them about the Voice.

As Peter Aldenhoven said at the [Sunday 4 June] Reconciliation Walk a No vote will mean that mainstream Australia is saying to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples that we have decided that we don’t want our government to listen to you.

It was very sad that Zoe didn’t come to the Reconciliation Walk as her predecessor did and listen to the speakers who all supported the Voice.

That would have been respectful and even perhaps allowed her to listen to their Voice.

Marg D’Arcy, Rye

Apologies needed

Although [Flinders MP] Zoe McKenzie and I do not share the same political views, my interactions with Zoe during the 2022 election campaign were always respectful.

So, it came as a shock to learn that Zoe not only misrepresented Helen Bnads and Peter Aldenhoven, but she also allegedly misrepresented Kenneth Hayne, former Justice of the High Court of Australia when she spoke in parliament on 22 May against the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

In my view, Zoe should apologise to Helen Bnads and Peter Aldenhoven and also the former High Court justice. Also, when parliament returns, she should apologise to the House and correct the record.

Sarah Russell, Mount Martha

Families were split

A few comments in response to two odd letters (“Voice not local issue” and “Voice splits fami-

lies” Letters 6/6/23).

In “Voice not local issue” the writer stridently states that the proposed Voice to Parliament is not a local issue and suggests those likely to vote in the affirmative visit Euston or Wilcannia to see “what their (First Nations Peoples’) living conditions are like”. Pardon? Then, “At no time in recorded history is there any evidence that there was an Aboriginal nation”- past and present members of the Kulin Nation may like to differ.

Next, we have in “Voice splits families” a fevered warning that these “bleeding hearts” should be wary lest their homes be “compulsorily acquired”. It may have slipped the writer’s mind, but McCrae is Bunurong/Boon Warrung land going back at least 10,000 years. It was compulsorily acquired.

To be clear, displaced, stolen and massacred Indigenous people had their families split. Yet the writer dares to question ancestry.

David Martin, Mount Martha

Yes for just society

Uninformed ravings against a Voice for the First Nations people are following in the steps of an opposition that seems to say no to almost everything in parliament (“Voice not local issue” Letters 6/6/23).

Assertions that there were no first nations before the arrival of the first fleet is so laughable it smacks of willful ignorance.

There were hundreds of first nations in our continent before occupation and they traded with each other across the whole continent.

That’s what the Uluru Statement from the Heart is all about. It was a very thoughtful process of many Aboriginal nations that came together at Uluru and produced a document that most were happy with. Sadly, it was disregarded out of hand by the then government with all the same erroneous arguments the No campaign still bandies about.

The almost hysterical assertion about people losing their homes if our First Nations people ever get a voice to government and the executive, is just that, the usual hysteria put about by some in the establishment to keep the status quo, and that is simply not good enough in our time and age.

Vote Yes for a more just society in Australia.

Rupert Steiner, Balnarring

A hidden mystery

The National Audit office has completed an audit of the National Indigenous Australian Agency (NIAA) for 2021 and 2022. Among other things it identified that this agency has been provided with $4 billion in funding yet cannot fully account for $1.03 billion. Nobody knows.

All those luvvy Yes supporters might not be aware of this because the compliant media has not mentioned a word. This outfit is one of the successors to the now disgraced ATSIC that was put to death in the face of outrageous corruption.

Those running NIAA are among the same people who will be in charge if the Yes vote gets up.

councillors who live on a different planet than the rest of us.

Do they really want to charge an absurd fee to park on the peninsula (“Six-month paid parking trial” The News 6/6/23)? Do they really want to close pubs, restaurants, cafes and local shops? Do they want more boarded up shops and charity shops?

Do they realise that people do not have to come here, they can go to the Yarra Valley, Dandenongs, Bellarine Peninsula and elsewhere.

Do they want people to park in local side streets and destroy the grass on the reserves, clogging up local roads which will result in lots of no parking signs and no go areas? This will drive local businesses into bankruptcy.

Have our local representatives been affected by long COVID or some other virus?

I am at a total loss to understand these absurd decisions and many others made in the past. Do these people really have the best interests of our local community or are they so selfish that they want the peninsula to themselves and are trying their very best to destroy our local business and environment?

Perhaps our local councillors should just put up a large sign on the freeway and say, “tourists are not welcome here, go away and spend your money somewhere else”.

Honestly, what is going through their minds when they make these decisions, because they are not acting in the best interests of our businesses. I realise this and I am retired.

Please Mornington Peninsula Shire Council think again before you destroy the livelihoods of our local businesses and destroy the streetscape of our neighborhoods.

Michael Appleyard, Mount Martha

does not live on the peninsula would contribute to the cost they create, like the 11 per cent increase to the $400 waste service charge which is not covered by the rate capping scheme making it a sock it to ‘em program directed at residents. Ever see the “clean team” when the tourists are not around?

The plan I have suggested also puts forth a litany of follow-on charges to raise revenue for the shire. If anyone would like a copy of this proposal or have their say, go to: mornpentaxtourists.blogspot.com/ Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach

Sorrento sand trap

I read with surprise Sorrento is among 17 finalists competing for the 2023 Victorian Top Tourism award (“Towns seek top tourism award” The News 6/6/23). Sorrento is a coastal town with beautiful bay views. The only path along the foreshore to enjoy the bay view is always in parts covered in sand (pictured left), denying people in wheel chairs or families with strollers access to the path and the views.

Report this to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and it takes weeks to be cleared. Sometimes half the sand is cleared still denying access.

In seaside towns in Japan paths are cleared of sand every day. In my opinion the only award Sorrento deserves to win is for not being inclusive. Josephine

Council watcher

Brand, Sorrento

I watched the livestream of the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meeting on Tuesday 30 May. The streaming is done via YouTube, which means it is really easy to access.

I was most impressed by how professionally this meeting was run by the mayor Cr Steve Holland, and by the debate which showed that all councillors had researched and reflected on the motions put and were prepared with ideas and opinions.

The topics are complex, and I am sure preparation for the meetings is time consuming. My thanks to all councillors for their efforts.

Erica Churchill, Bittern

Sustainable peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is fast becoming a mecca for protecting nature and living sustainably (“At home with the environment” The News 6/6/23).

The Eco Living Display Centre at The Briars, for example, offers fun and engaging activities for all the family. My kids and I have previously enjoyed nature-based scavenger hunts and tree planting activities, but I am also inspired to learn how to improve indoor air quality and use induction cooktops.

Congratulations also to those involved with the newly opened South East Water discovery lab (“Keeping check on water’s health” The News 6/6/23). Surveying water quality will no doubt allow community members to engage with protecting local ecosystems.

Thriving ecosystems, living sustainably and good health all go hand in hand.

Amy Hiller, Kew

Chocolate fix

How much I have enjoyed recent chocolate advertisements on TV.

Are these Yes advocates ignorant of what went on with ATSIC or were they too young to be conscious of it?

Barry James Rumpf, McCrae

‘Reconciliation’ praise

I would like to congratulate the organisers of the Willum Warrain Reconciliation Walk held on Sunday 4 June.

It was well attended, and the welcoming hospitality, food and drink shared with everyone, together with the speeches, dancing and singing were all well received.

There was an excellent article in your paper by [Willum Warrain CEO] Peter Aldenhoven on and I hope many people follow his advice (“Make reconciliation a shared journey” The News 30/5/23).

Slainte Kerry McInerney, Mornington

Bankrupting businesses

I have had the pleasure of living on the Mornington Peninsula for the past seven years and am totally frustrated by a succession of local

Paid parking to fail

The paid parking pilot is suspect in that rather than pay, tourists will just clog up our side streets more than they do now (“Six-month paid parking trial” The News 6/6/23). And as they find alternate parking in private lots, my finding a park at the Dromana supermarket lot will change from near impossible to impossible.

Has the self-fulfilling prophecy, it will not work, been set up to prove that there will not be enough net revenue gain to pay for it?: “Popularity of our beaches especially during the summer months makes access a challenge and puts increasing pressure on existing public car parks and related infrastructure.”

This scheme does not address the parking congestion on our side streets. Let’s change the paradigm and change the concept to a tourist tax where non-peninsula residents contribute to the costs they generate.

For several years I have been putting forth a plan that would make sure that everyone who

For many years food advertisements have often been based on greed and immediate gratification. For example, one person sealing another’s food because the first person just has to have it now. There are many I could quote.

The good thing is that the chocolate company I am talking about decided to make the ads with a very unselfish, giving theme. There are four I can think of:

1) The little girl wanting a present for her mother and a generous shopkeeper.

2) A little boy on a bus recognising a young woman’s sadness and offers some chocolate.

3) The daughter whose father leaves a block of chocolate for her at the counter, a peacemaker.

4. The father in the car, nervous about a promotion at work and the son has left him a cake of chocolate in the glovebox and on the phone tells his father how proud he is of him.

I love chocolate anyway, but the advertisements have moved me because of the “niceness and decency”.

Well done, I hope the company can sell heaps of chocolate. Thank you and congratulations Mary Lane, Mornington

PUZZLE ZONE

ACROSS

1. Funeral garlands

4. Former lover, old ...

7. Reykjavik is there

8. Scratch out

9. Stacked

12. Intermittently (2,3,3)

15. Show up again

17. Inclined letter style

18. Loose pants, ... shorts

21. Notorious affair

22. Dissect (3,2)

23. Rags

DOWN

1. More deserving

2. Take as being true

3. Scorch

4. Melt into the background

5. Airman

6. Outside limit

10. Wooden joining peg

11. Native New Zealander

13. Burns unsteadily

14. Communist

16. Unoccupied

18. Political power group

19. Invitation reply (1,1,1,1)

20. Angler’s throw

Puzzles supplied by Lovatts Publications Pty Ltd

www.lovattspuzzles.com

See page 29 for solutions.

CUTTING-EDGE CONTEMPORARY CIRCUS TOURS TO FRANKSTON

ONE Fell Swoop Circus bring their much-lauded production, By a Thread, to Frankston Arts Centre for one show only, bringing with them their trademark 30 metres of white rope.

Using no nets or safety harnesses, By A Thread offers rich visuals of inventive aerial acrobatics and spectacular skills from some of Australia’s best circus artists. Seven performers combine dynamic acrobatic skills and poignant physical theatre in a choreographed exploration of tension; physical, emotional and relational.

The performers are hoisted and swung by one another to create striking tableaux and breathtaking dynamics. The actions of one acrobat affect and implicate the movements of others in a precise negotiation of cause and effect.

Coming out of intense physical training at the National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA),

Australia’s elite-level circus training institute, the By A Thread ensemble emerges with a cutting-edge contemporary circus piece on an innovative aerial apparatus.

“One Fell Swoop Circus was formed as we wanted to make work that explores the trust implicit in ensemble acrobatic work, and apply this to aerials. It’s challenging developing group aerial circus acts, as aerialists are often isolated from other performers.

Circus is a powerful art form because what you see before you is actually what is happening,” explains Director and company cofounder, Charice Rust.

Witness One Fell Swoop’s performance of By A Thread at Frankston Arts Centre on Thursday 20 July at 7.30pm. Book at thefac.com.au or call 03 9784 1060.

Time Travelling Through The Ages

By Stuart McCullough

TIME travel is curious thing. Better still, it’s not nearly as tricky as people like to make out. Sure, you can obsess over wormholes, DeLoreans and flux capacitors if you like but, in truth, time travel happens everyday without these things. In fact, I’ve been time travelling all week and I can honestly say I didn’t come anywhere near to reaching eighty-eight miles per hour. Instead, I’ve been unpacking books.

The first thing to say about books is that I’ve got a lot of them. No matter where I go, they attach themselves to me and rarely, if ever, let go. Having moved house a few months back, the time had come for me to address ‘the messy room’. That is, the one room of the house that, for whatever reason, is never quite finished.

There were books from my childhood, including an old hardback picture book of Dick Whittington, its edges worn. There’s also the book I wrote in Grade Three. I should clarify that when I say ‘book’, I mean pieces of paper that were folded together and stapled to a cardboard cover. I should clarify further that when I say ‘wrote’ I mean attempted to transcribe a Monty Python sketch I heard another student describe on the bus to school. You’ve got to start somewhere.

Adrian Mole holds a special place in my heart. I don’t know why but there was something about the story of a shy, nerdy aspiring novelist that I connected to. It seemed as if Sue Townsend wasn’t so much writing these stories as simply taking dictation. They perfectly captured what it was to be an adolescent boy – the anxieties, the hopelessly unrequited crushes and pimples. I could relate.

I have a few ‘prize’ books in my collection. These are the tomes I won either for academic excellence or, possibly, punctuality. Without exception, these are all very serious books with atrociously small print. Usually there’s some kind

of sticker on the inside cover explaining what I’d done to deserve a book. I’ve not read any of them. They feel too special to enjoy. Ideally, these books would be mounted on the wall like hunting trophies.

Things took a dark turn in my late teens and early twenties. For reasons that elude me now, I decided the best way to demonstrate to the world at large that I was an interesting, sensitive young man was to buy certain kinds of books. It started with a Patrick White obsession – I spent weekends hunting down first editions all over town and regarded anyone who’d even heard of Patrick White as being something of a kindred spirit. But despite all my Patrick White first editions, not

once did someone sidle up to me and remark what an interesting and sensitive young man I must be.

Things turned darker still. I started reading Camus, Sartre and collecting hardback editions of Francois Mauriac. Before I knew it, I was a complete Francophile. If these books didn’t represent who I was, they probably said something about who I wanted to be. Sometimes books are aspirational. But I was a long way from being Camus, Sartre or Mauriac.

I have a lot of books from my father. These fall into two distinct camps. There are those that he gave me, usually as a gift to mark an important event like a birthday or Christmas. Then there are those that I took, most likely with a promise to

return promptly that, at least to this time, remains unfilled. (Where else am I going to get a complete set of Spike Milligan’s war diaries at this point?)

The gifts are all inscribed – nothing too fancy – just my name and his, the event and the date. These books are like signposts. Books had been my father’s go to gift of choice. But, at a certain point, they stopped. Perhaps the risk of repetition was too great. The ones I took are, well, probably more comfortable staying with me at this point. Different stages of my life have seen me buy different types of books. Prolonged periods of melancholy saw me buy a lot of Michael Leunig. There were assorted self-help books that probably followed my Michael Leunig marathon and then more cook books than I care to mention that I bought before every recipe you could ever want was available on the internet. Clearly, life had changed.

Books are shadows. You can’t shake them off. I’ve packed and unpacked my books more times than I care to mention and spent hours fussing over how to arrange them on the shelves. Books can’t appear randomly, there has to be some kind of underpinning logic.

And so it is that I’ve once more had to unpack my books. Reaching into cardboard carton after carton, I’ve pulled out fragments of my life before deciding what order they should go in. It’s almost as though they’re puzzle pieces and I am slowly putting myself back together.

Some books I’ve read multiple times –‘Catch-22’ by Joseph Heller, ‘The Heart of the Matter’ by Graham Greene and ‘The Man With The Gold’ – the autobiography of Mr. T. Others I may never get around to reading. I’m okay with that. Just the sight of them instantly transports me to another point in time. They connect me to other points in my life. Or, if you prefer, to other chapters. The end. stuart@stuartmccullough.com

Women’s Hospital Appeal - Successful Ball at Frankston

Compiled by Cameron McCullough

WHEN Mr. Mark Brody launched his idea of holding a calico ball in aid of the funds of the Women’s Hospital, he relied on the ladies of the district to assist him in carrying the project through to a successful issue.

He was not disappointed. Once again the call of sweet charity fell on responsive ears, with the result that the function which eventuated on Thursday night last will result in a substantial cheque being forwarded to worthy institution above named.

Added interest was aroused from the fact that the beautiful new Palais de Danse had been made available to the committee through the courtesy of the managing director, Mr. Essex Bond.

Many who had not previously entered the building were delighted with the magnificence of the structure.

The spacious hall, brilliantly lighted, became a place of enchantment when youth and beauty graced the floor, and participated in a lively measure to the music of Harding’s Band.

A touch of carnival spirit was added to the scene by the many multicolored ribbons flying about the room; and the quaintly fashioned paper head-gear which designing committee had fashioned to turn an additional coin or two.

Mr. Bond had promised that the balcony would be available for visitors. It was, and for the first time, the winding stair-case was thronged with happy people, eager to explore every recess of the palatial structure.

They willingly paid the extra shilling that admission to the gallery involved.

The buffet on the stage at the other end of the hall was well patronised, and here the members of the ladies’

committee were particularly alert to attend to the requirements of patrons.

Once again the nimble shilling changed ownership all helping to swell the hospital fund.

Sister Campbell was at the head of the ladies’ committee, all of whom rendered excellent service.

The management offered prizes, available to the ladies present who wore the least expensive dresses.

Competitors were required to produce a certified invoice setting out the cost of the material used in the dress made by the wearer.

***

COMPLAINTS are made from time to time of the destruction of fishermen’s nets by seals in Westernport Bay, and the Fisheries and Game Department have been urged to take action to have the animals considerably reduced in number.

Mr. Lewis, Inspector of Fisheries and Game, stated that so far no evidence of the damage alleged to have been caused by the seals, other than statements that it occurs, has been placed before the department, and he is therefore disinclined to take action in the direction asked without “further and better particulars.

***

MR. William Avis, of Tyabb, met with a fatal accident at Red Hill on Saturday last. He was crushed by the limb of a falling tree whilst engaged in fencing.

***

MESSRS. J. A. Nairn and S. Gibbons, of Somerville, are both down to the influenza epidemic, but are now doing well.

***

MR. Bert Stevens, Government Dairy Supervisor, has been promoted to the charge of the Bacchus Marsh district. This is considered one of the best posts the department has to offer and Mr. Stevens is to be congratulated on his promotion.

Mr. Stevens and his family will be leaving Frankston next month.

***

WE regret to learn that Mr. Jas. Lambie, of Mornington road, is indisposed. He is receiving medical attention, and hopes to be about again in a few days.

***

AT the next meeting of the Frankston Progress Association to be held on Tuesday, 19th inst., Mr. J. G. Mann will read a paper entitled “What Might Happen to a Town”. Visitors are cordially invited.

***

MRS. A. Coxall, of Hastings Road, Frankston, is at present on a visit to Ballarat. ***

DURING the last six months, one private house in Frankston had 335 telephone calls! It cost £3/14/9. These are sort of clients the Postal Department like!

***

MISS Dorothy Dalton will be featured at the Frankston Pictures at an early date in the picture that is considered the best she has ever done.

***

THE Frankston Gas Co. Pty. Ltd. has disposed of its plant and interests at Frankston to the Colonial Gas Association, who have big interests at Footscray, Box Hill and Oakleigh. Mr. Edward Bean will continue to

act as manager at Frankston.

***

A MEETING of ladies interested in the Frankston Football Club will be held at Frankston House on Friday next at 3 o’clock.

***

TWO teams from the Flinders Naval Base have consented to the suggestion made by “The Standard” to play an exhibition soccer match at Frankston. This will take place on Saturday, June 27, when Frankston and the Naval Base also play a match under Australian rules.

***

THE Alfred Hospital Auxiliary meets at the Mechanics’ Institute tomorrow, Thursday, June 14, at three o’clock.

***

CR. C. A. Jones, of Hastings, who is a patient in “Marinook” private hospital at East Melbourne, is, happily, now doing well.

At one period his condition was considered critical, but he has made a good recovery.

***

AT next Saturday’s entertainment, the Frankston Pictures Co. Ltd. will present the late Wallace Reid in William de Mille’s latest production, entitled “Nice People,” in which Bebe Daniels, Conrad Nagel and Julia Faye are cast. Mila May, one of the latest stars to rise in the movie firmament, will be featured in “The Greatest Truth.” Another Torchy comedy, with the Paramount magazine, will also be included in the programme.

***

MR. Ben Baxter, of Bond & Baxter, estate agents, etc., has been granted an auctioneer’s license.

Trades & Services Employment

***

IT is understood that Messrs. Taylor & Ritchie, of Mornington, will open a Ford motor garage at Frankston at an early date.

***

THE engagement is announced of Dr. Gilbert G. B. Baillieu, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Francis J. Baillieu, St. Croix, Malvern, to Chica, younger daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Edgeworth Somers, of Mornington.

***

THE peculiar looking radish, the photo of which appeared in last Saturday’s “Sun,” was grown by Mr. A. G. Tasker at his property on Hastings Road, Frankston.

It measured over six feet in length and resembled a hen very greatly in its peculiar growth.

***

WHERE does “The Standard” circulate? Merely on the Peninsula and Phillip Island? By no means. One copy at least goes regularly to India, another is sent to Hong Kong, and from there addressed to different places in China and Japan from time to time.

Two copies go to Africa, one to Natal and the other to the Orange Free State, whilst several copies go to England and Scotland.

Another goes to Fiji in the Pacific, another to New Zealand, and for a time, at least, one copy found its way to Nicaragua in South America.

***

From the pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 13 & 15 June 1923

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

SOUTHERN PENINSULA NEWS scoreboard

Sharks bounce back, ten in a row for Tigers

MPNFL

By Brodie Cowburn

DIVISION ONE

SORRENTO have bounced back from a crushing loss to take the points from Rosebud.

The Sharks were looking to rebound

on Saturday after a 122-point drubbing at the hands of Dromana the weekend prior. Rosebud suffered a 126-point loss of their own that day, meaning both sides had a lot to prove.

Sorrento and Rosebud played at Olympic Park on Saturday. After a tight opening half, Rosebud went into the main break ahead by eight points.

An eight-goal third term put Sorrento in the box seat. They turned an eight point deficit into a 26 point lead heading into the final quarter.

Sorrento stretched their lead in the final term, going on to claim a comfortable 39 point win. The final scoreboard read Rosebud 9.15 (69) to Sorrento 16.12 (108).

The other match of the weekend saw ladder leaders Dromana travel to take on Red Hill on Sunday.

The Tigers were looking to secure their tenth consecutive win for the season. They established a comfortable 22 point lead in the second quarter, then never let the Hillmen get back in the game.

Dromana kept the pressure on in the second half. They ended up defeating Red Hill 11.7 (73) to 18.15 (123).

Riley Davis booted four goals for the 10-0 Tigers. Terry Wheeler, Billy Quigley, and Reece Wilde also impressed.

The rest of the round will be played this weekend.

'Bluey' part of Hastings' football history

By Lance Hodgins

LAST year, a group of old Hastings footballers gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their premiership win in the MPFL. The 1972 season was relived and many tales – some of them long-winded and far-fetched – were told.

Amongst them was the story of a birth: “Bluey” was conceived during the euphoria and week-long celebrations which followed the grand final. Today he is very much alive and enjoying a 50th birthday of his own.

Russell McRae remembers playing on the half back flank. He was new to the town but someone heard that he had played good football for North Geelong before a serious injury had sidelined him for eighteen months. He was immediately drafted into the Blues and became a vital part of their premiership campaign.

It was Russell’s other passion that had brought him to Hastings. The McRae family was in the car business and Russell opened the town’s first Holden dealership - McRaes of Hastings.

HQ Holdens were selling fast and Russell supported the town and his new football club. Keen to show this, he figured that each new Holden that rolled out of McRaes should have a sticker proclaiming the fact. The idea took root immediately after that 1972 grand final.

Hastings had not won a flag since the Coleman years in the late 1940s and the pickings had been lean for two decades. Nevertheless, the locals had not forgotten how to party and the celebrations were wild and memorable.

On the day after the game, the players paused for a more formal luncheon at the Club. Russell was seated next to a close friend, David Beale, who handled McRae’s advertising in the local paper. David was also a talented artist, well known for his caricatures of local identities.

The car sticker idea was raised and Russell was asked which of his teammates would make a good model. To Russell it was a “no brainer” – he looked across the room and there was this burly 14-stone six-footer, with a prominent jaw of granite, holding forth.

The artist was taken over and introduced to Fred Bayne. A quick sketch on the spot and an appointment for a “sitting” a few days later at Russell’s garage and the deal was done.

The result was a windscreen transfer similar to the registration stickers of the day. “Bluey” was born.

In 1972 Fred Bayne was in his ninth year with the Hastings Blues and was well established as a rugged key position player. He was known

as “Fearless Fred” and “Bruiser Bayne” in a football era in which no holds were barred. His performance in the grand final that year saw Hastings beat Carrum by six goals and earn Fred a place amongst the best players.

The sticker appeared on an ever-increasing number of Holdens around the town, and people began to recognise the likeness of a local footballer, who was also the chemist, a councillor, and president of both the hospital and the Chamber of Commerce. Perhaps the jaw gave it away.

It was not long until the sketch was adopted by the Football Club as their official logo. Since then it has appeared on newsletters, press releases, official correspondence, caps, jackets and other apparel. Today large logos adorn the exterior walls of the Junior Football Club rooms at Hastings Park.

Russell McRae played with Hastings for two more seasons before moving on to another car dealership at Dandenong.

He turned to car racing and paired with his brother Rod in an L34 Torana. At Bathurst in 1974, they were coming fourth when Rod hit a pool of water and slewed sideways at 225 kph, rolling several times in arguably the “greatest accident seen at Bathurst”.

In later years Russell became a very successful greyhound trainer.

Fred Bayne went on to play 164 games for Hastings, finishing his playing career in a blaze of glory by starring in the Reserves’ premiership win in 1976.

He served the Club well as a player and Club administrator, was chosen in two Teams of the Decade and made a Life Member and a Hall of Famer.

In 2007 he retired to a bayside property in Mornington, but he still maintains a close relationship with his old friends at Hastings.

As for the logo – it lives on in more ways than one. It is a wellknown fact that, after winning premiership flags in 1992 and 1995, many of the Hastings players visited a local shop and had “Bluey” tattooed on their backsides!

Starting the tradition: The 'Bluey' car sticker

Above left: An advertisement for McRaes of Hastings

Above right: Russell McRae in the 1972 grand final

Left: The 'Bluey' inspiration, Fred Bayne

Above left: Russell McRae's wrecked Torana after crashing at Bathurst

Melino to quit at season’s end

SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie

CARLO

Melino’s

six-year stint as senior coach at Chelsea will end when the final whistle blows for the 2023 season.

Last Friday’s 7-1 home defeat at the hands of a rampaging Baxter outfit had no bearing on the decision as Melino told the club’s board and the players that he will be stepping down a fortnight ago.

“It’s just getting too hard to combine family life and football and I need to be there for my three kids,” Melino said.

“I’ve been coaching for the best part of 15 years.

“I joined Chelsea at the end of 2017 and although I’m sad to be leaving I’m also excited.

“The club was disappointed but I’m proud of what we’ve created here – a proper senior team and a proper culture – and I hope that continues.

“I’m taking a full year off and I don’t know when I’ll be back.”

Last Friday night Chelsea became Baxter’s eighth straight victim and Stephen Fisher’s men turned on the style.

“It was an emphatic win, easily the best we have played this season,” head coach Fisher said.

“It’s all coming together and the team is playing some really entertaining football.

Goalscorers for Fisher’s outfit were Liam Baxter (3), Jack Elliott (2), Izaak Barr and substitute Dylan Murchie.

“Izaak scored a cracker – a near post run and header from a Dukic corner,” Fisher added.

“It was very satisfying as we had worked on that at training.”

Undermanned Somerville Eagles maintained their unbeaten record with a 1-0 away win over FC Noble Hurricanes on Saturday.

Somerville dominated play and struck the decisive blow in the 70th minute.

A Tom Simmons cross found substitute Ronnie Krishnan at the far post and his sidefooted volley hit the mark.

Both Somerville and Baxter have closed the gap on State 4 South leader White Star Dandenong which drew 1-1 with fourth-placed Sandringham last weekend.

This weekend Somerville hosts White Star while Sandringham hosts Baxter.

In NPL2 news a missed penalty and poor defending cost Langwarrin dearly when it lost 3-2 at home to Eastern Lions on Friday night.

Langy should have taken the lead in the 39th minute when Tom Youngs was felled inside the area but his conversion attempt was easily saved by Lions custodian Keegan Coulter.

A scoreless first half looked assured until Carter Ramsay nudged Langy central defender Charlie Fry off the ball in time added and as Fry went to ground Ramsay calmly slotted his shot inside the near post for the opener.

Archie Macphee levelled in the 58th minute pouncing on a bad pass in defence and coolly finishing past an advancing Coulter.

Langy hit the front five minutes later when Jeremy Min Fa cut the ball back from the left of the area for Youngs who poked it inside the far post.

In the 85th minute a second yellow card for Lucas Portelli saw the home side reduced to 10 men and Lions scored twice in a frantic injury time period to snatch an unlikely win.

The equaliser came from the head of Jack Kamper with Langy keeper James Burgess desperately trying to

Sudoku and crossword solutions

get across to his back post and the winner came from Ramsay whose initial shot struck Rogan McGeorge only for the ball to fall back into Ramsay’s path.

This time he made no mistake from close range.

In State 1 Mornington can thank star striker Rory Currie for an invaluable three points on Saturday.

The Seagulls downed fellow promotion contender South Springvale 1-0 at Warner Reserve.

In the 37th minute Currie, Brady Pollard, Rhys Craigie and David Stirton pressed the South Springvale defence and Currie’s poacher’s instinct proved decisive.

Mornington is at home to Casey Comets this weekend but there’s some doubt about the match going ahead.

Comets had to inform players last week of a serious cashflow problem and it’s understood that many senior players along with the coaching staff have left the club.

Mornington has signed Luke Bur-

gess from Comets and the former Langwarrin and Heidelberg United defender is expected to come straight into the matchday squad on Saturday.

In State 2 Peninsula Strikers overwhelmed neighbouring Skye United winning 5-0 at Skye Recreation Reserve on Friday night.

Harrison Michaelis didn’t do Skye any favours when he was sent off following bookings in the 7th and 13th minutes.

Steve Elliott opened the scoring against the 10 men by heading home a pinpoint Wayne Gordon free-kick in the 20th minute.

Eight minutes later Gordon provided the cross that Riley Anderton converted to make it 2-0 and superb lead-up play from Cooper Andrews in the 40th minute was rewarded when his cross found Ahmad Tabbara who sidefooted home his first goal for Strikers.

Skye was well and truly out of the contest after Campbell Steedman slotted home the fourth following an excellent reverse pass from Gordon right on half-time.

Steedman nabbed his brace in the 60th minute and some excellent saves from Skye keeper Jonathan Crook saved the home side from a more embarrassing scoreline.

Frankston Pines lost 4-2 away to Mazenod after giving up a 2-0 lead.

Sava Baledrokadroka and Antonio

Marcuccio gave Pines the upper hand in the first half but two goals in a minute before the break changed the contest’s momentum.

Pines have signed American midfielder Nick Santhiago from Ventura County Fusion and teenage goalkeeper Bryden Plowright.

Santhiago has played in the lower divisions in Portugal and Sweden while Plowright has been at Alicante City’s academy in Spain.

In State 5 news Harry McCartney reports that Seaford United gained revenge for its first round loss when it downed Mount Eliza 2-0 at Emil Madsen Reserve on Saturday.

Seaford led after Andrew Packer was tripped in the 35th minute and the referee pointed to the spot.

Esmat Ehsani struck his conversion attempt straight down the middle for the opener.

Five minutes later the home side could have equalised from the penalty spot if not for Hayden Hicks whose full-stretch low save kept the visitors’ lead intact.

But Luke Murray sealed Mount Eliza’s fate in the 59th minute when he got an outstretched foot to a Josh

Vega volley.

Mentone got back to winning ways with a comfortable 5-1 home win against Barton Utd last weekend.

Marcus Spivey’s 18th opener from a free kick was cancelled out two minutes later when Shirazi Nazari pounced on a slip by Alex Mallamaci for an easy finish.

Eric Ervine put Mentone back in front in the 48th minute with a right footed close range finish before Spivey flicked the ball over the Barton keeper for his second in the 65th minute.

Frankie Varsamis completed an excellent move involving Joe Dunbar, Spivey and Tyler Pollard scoring high into the net on 70 minutes and nabbed his second 10 minutes later to complete the scoring.

Mentone has signed central midfielder Adam Leander from Bayside Argonauts.

High-flying Rosebud’s 3-2 home loss to second-bottom Pakenham United was a surprise result.

Noah Musso scored both goals for Rosebud who fell further behind tearaway leader Hampton Park United which has all but secured the title. Musso is now State 5 South’s top scorer.

Mount Martha lost 4-2 away to Bunyip District last weekend with Ethan Sanderson scoring both goals for the visitors.

NEXT WEEK’S GAMES

Friday 16 June, 8.30pm: Langwarrin v Brunswick City, Lawton Park

Skye Utd v Frankston Pines, Skye Recreation Reserve

Chelsea v Endeavour Utd, Edithvale Recreation Reserve

Saturday 17 June, 3pm: Mornington v Casey Comets, Dallas Brooks Park

Mooroolbark v Peninsula Strikers, Esther Park Reserve

Somerville v White Star Dandenong, Tyabb Central Reserve

Sandringham v Baxter, Spring Street Oval

Aspendale v Mount Eliza, Aspendale Gardens Sports Ground

Mount Martha v Hampton Park Utd, Civic Reserve

Seaford Utd v Pakenham Utd, North Seaford Reserve

Saturday 17 June, 6.30pm: Rosebud v Mentone, Olympic Park

Family first: Chelsea head coach Carlo Melino will step down at season’s end from the post he has held since late 2017. Picture: Paul Seeley, The Man In The Stands

SAVE LIVES. SAVE TRIPLE ZERO (000) CALLS FOR EMERGENCIES.

• Your doctor can help if you have a minor injury and illness, need examination, need advice or referral to a specialist.

• Your pharmacist can provide assistance and medicines for minor illness.

• And there’s Nurse-On-Call (1300 60 60 24) for immediate, expert advice, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you need an interpreter, call 131 450 and ask for NURSE-ON-CALL.

So, save triple zero (000) calls and ambulances for emergencies. Find out more at betterhealth.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.