Ink dries on sale of Observer
JO REID
THE future of the Portland Observer is in good hands, with the news that the masthead has been bought by experienced newspaper publishers Paul Thomas and Damian Morgan.
The contract has been signed for the sale of both the Portland Observer and the Hamilton Spectator mastheads, two of Victoria’s most historic regional newspapers, to SA Today Pty Ltd. The sale is set to be completed next Friday, an early Christmas present for the employees and families and indeed the local community.
The change of guard marks a significant new chapter for the mastheads, which have served their communities with dedication for generations. While all current staff will be made redundant by the current owners, the new proprietors intend to offer positions to as many existing team members as possible who wish to continue working with the publications. Current editor, Marlene Punton, is excited for
the future of the newspaper.
“The news that we have been bought and will continue is fabulous.
“I was really saddened that so much history could be lost but the future looks bright, especially being bought by an expanding group that has deep roots in country and community newspapers,” Ms Punton said.
“We’ve had enormous supportive feedback from the community since the closure was announced and thank people for their kind words.”
While the paper remains, there will be some changes. The paper will become a weekly publication, expected to be on the Friday.
In the next week roles for current staff will be decided and then the preparations begin for a new-look Portland Observer in 2025.
Speaking about the acquisition, new co-owner Paul Thomas said, “These newspapers are cornerstones of their communities, and we are honoured to take on the responsibility of
ensuring their future. Our aim is to rejuvenate these mastheads, grow their reach, and continue delivering quality, public-interest journalism that serves the people of Hamilton and Portland with integrity and passion.”
“Print still has a really important place in the community, the Observer has a strong readership and strong circulation. What newspapers do is give the community a voice, they hold the powerful to account and for a democratic Australia, newspapers are vital to the community,” he said.
“We do see a really bright future and we would really hope that the local community will support us. Our first edition will be on Friday, January 31 and there will be a small increase in cost but the two papers will essentially amalgamate into the one edition so it will provide great value for money, still less than the price of a cup of coffee,” Mr Thomas said. Co-owner Damian Morgan added, “We see enormous potential in these newspapers and
are excited to invest in their future. Local journalism is crucial to a vibrant democracy, and we are committed to maintaining the traditions of these publications while adapting them for the digital age. Our goal is to strengthen their connection to their communities and make them even more relevant to their readers.”
The new owners are committed to preserving the legacy of these historic mastheads while modernising operations to ensure their long-term sustainability. The plan for the company is to focus on growing readership and advertising revenue, investing in both print and digital platforms, and delivering the highest standards of local journalism.
The completion of the sale will usher in a new era for these newspapers, ensuring their vital role in supporting their communities continues for years to come.
“Personally, I’m excited by the prospect of change and the reinvigorating of our 182-yearold newspaper,” Ms Punton said.
SUNDAY evening’s Community Christmas Carols had students from Bundarra Primary School (bottom left), Portland Primary School (top left), All Saints Parish School (top right) and Portland North Primary School (bottom right) performing for friends, family and teachers. Also using their best singing voices were the Portland Citizens Brass Band, secondary schools, a mass choir and the Community Rockers. See more on PAGE 4.
Pictures: KAREN HODGE
PORTLAND Arts Centre celebrated Christmas with a matinee concert and morning
featuring Christopher McKenna, Alison Jones and Roy Best along with the CEMA ukulele group (pictured). Celebrations will continue tonight with the laneway party and Primal show at the PAC.
THE Portland Arts Centre will continue the launch of its 2025 season after a successful launch at the Christmas-themed matinee concert held last Monday.
Tonight audiences who prefer the entertainment on the wild side, will be exhilarated by “Primal” –the new show from Highwire Entertainment.
The show is a sexy, funny, thrilling circus for grown-ups, featuring Australia’s most exciting circus and cabaret artists. This event is not suitable for children and will be held in collaboration with the Committee for Portland’s famous “Laneways”
Not
your average Christmas tree
ST John’s Lutheran Primary School’s Christmas Tree Exhibition was last weekend and had 115 trees on display, each created by different businesses and clubs in Portland and district.
Portland Citizens Brass Band’s Christmas tree was inspired by the musical instruments they play and the red colour of their uniforms.
See more pictures on PAGE 12.
Picture: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT
Christmas event, which this year will be held on the library lawns on Bentinck Street from 5pm. The two events have been coordinated so that crowds can stroll easily from the party, straight on to the Portland Arts Centre without missing a thing.
Both of the Launch performances are free events, but exclusive to Portland Arts Centre members and their guests, and bookings are essential. Nonmembers who would like can join up in person, online or over the phone from just $15 a year by phoning the PAC or visiting the website.
GABRIEL GARCIA
A TOURIST was involved in a collision in Tyrendarra on Wednesday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the intersection of the TyrendarraEttrick Rd and Princes Hwy after reports of a collision at 4.30pm. Portland Sergeant Callum McKinnon said drives of the two cars were a German woman tourist and a Warrnambool man.
“She stopped at the intersection; she’s turned right onto the Princes Hwy to go towards Portland,” he said. “She was unable to see due to the sun in her eyes. He was traveling east, towards Warrnambool.
“She pulled out in front of him, and he hit the side of her van.”
The Warrnambool man was sent to Warrnambool hospital while the female tourist had no injuries. Investigations remain ongoing.
Jingle bells and highwire fun at PAC Wind,
RENOWNED artist Judy Antill will be holding an exhibition of her recent work at the former Sandilands Centre at 33 Percy Street from tomorrow until Christmas eve.
From local seascapes to desert vistas, her works have been inspired by the natural landscapes of Broken Hill, Portland, the Fleurieu peninsula
O Lord our God, look down with mercy on the Ukrainian people. Protect and save them from the unjust aggressors who seek to subdue them. Grant them steadfast trust in your mercy and protection.
O Mother of God, who gave us your miraculous icon at Zarvanytsia, intercede for the Ukrainian people, who run to the shelter of your mercy in their times of need.
O Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on us. Grant peace and protection to the people of Ukraine. Give them strength and courage to defend what is good, right, and holy. Keep them safe from harm and provide for all their needs, both temporal and spiritual.
Hear our prayers, O Lord, and deliver us from distress, for you are merciful and compassionate and love mankind. To you we give glory: the Father, the Son, and the
amongst other regions.
Visitors are welcome to come and view the artworks every day in the lead up to Christmas at the historic Sandilands from 11am until 6pm daily. There is also an opportunity to view her latest work in progress, a 3.6 metre long commission work of the rock pools at Cape Grant.
Here’s this year’s dux
CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT
YEAR 12
VCE students across Portland and the district anxiously started up their devices yesterday to find out their ATAR scores.
To their surprise, three students discovered they received the highest result out of their entire year-level, crowning them dux.
This year’s Portland Secondary College dux is Gina Shemeld, 17, who got an 87.1 ATAR.
Gina said she is proud of her result and is quite excited about what the future holds.
“I’d like to do nursing at Warrnambool (Deakin), and then after that, I’d either like to do a doctor of medicine or a biomedical engineering degree,” she said.
“I wasn’t expecting this ATAR, otherwise I might have gone and done the biomedical engineering right away.
“I’d really like to work in women’s health care. “With family and friends, you hear these scary stories about healthcare, and you see it on the news a lot. I’d like to work in that field and help improve it.”
Gina said she took a biology class in school and was inspired by her teacher Ms Jennings.
Heywood and District Secondary College’s 2024 Dux Kadan Argall, 18, received a 64.25 ATAR result and said it was between him and a classmate to see who would get it, as they were the only VCE students.
“It was 50/50 for me since it’s only two of us,” he said.
“We did all the same classes, except he did accounting and I did chemistry.”
As of term three, Kadan has already got stuck into a job at Icon Investments in Portland, which he is enjoying.
“I’m going to continue working there for at
JO REID
A MODULAR housing factory that received a large amount of State Government funds to bring investment and job opportunities to Portland has shelved the idea, citing lack of projects as the reason.
FormFlow is a Geelong-based manufacturer that announced plans to bring business to Portland in September 2022 with a $800,000 grant from the Portland Diversification Fund.
Plans were that the company would lease the large, council-owned hangar at the Portland Airport with a three- year lease and four years of extension allowed.
When first announced in September 2022, the company had expectations that this enterprise would be able to create 50 full time staff once production was in full swing.
At the official announcement, then State Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing said, “This grant is about making sure that FormFlow can thrive, can actually expand its business, can
PORTLAND Secondary College’S Gina Shemeld, 17, and Heywood and District Secondary College’S Kadan Argall, 18, are their school’s dux of 2024. Inset: Bayview College’s dux Emelia Clements.
least another couple of years,” he said.
“I don’t think I’ll chase too many further things.
The most I’ll do is potentially just get some more certificates in security or stuff like that.
“That’s only really if I need them to be able to legally do something in the field.
“I more or less go around and install and do maintenance and all that on security systems and networking systems.
“Considering it’s pretty much most of my life so far up to now that’s been school – it’s sort of nice to get out into the world, have a bit of freedom.”
Lastly, the Bayview College 2024 dux is Emelia Clements, who achieved an ATAR of 91.1 and hopes to study nursing and midwifery. She is currently overseas holidaying with her family.
Grand plans for tiny homes up in smoke
deliver jobs as a result…we want to make sure that this is part of an overall opportunity not just to grow jobs, not just to support apprentices and training pathways, but also to make sure that we’re alleviating some of the housing stress and the pressures on access to accommodation that are existing around the area.”
Managing Director of the company, Matthew Dingle, met with local councillors this week to explain the situation the company had found itself in.
“Unfortunately, we have not been able to secure the projects we needed to continue the project,”
Mr Dingle said.
“We had a grant agreement in place and the next milestone was that we would employ a certain amount of people and we have had to terminate the project agreement. Things just haven’t moved as well or as quickly as we would’ve liked.”
“It is really disappointing. It is clear that housing is needed and we have delivered a couple of projects to Portland but we don’t have enough
business to continue with the project,” he said.
Manufacturing at the Portland site was slated to start in April 2023, this was then pushed back to September 2023 and then to July 2024.
A Victorian Government spokesperson for the Portland Diversification Fund was not able to comment on individual grants and businesses but did say that a range of departmental policies and procedures are applied to support compliant grant administration and meet obligations, including monthly project control group meetings between the recipient and RDV, as per the conditions of the Grant Agreement.
“We’ve invested in the Portland Economic Diversification Plan to help build diverse economic opportunities in Portland, to invest in sustainable, long-term jobs, and drive growth in the region,” the spokesperson said.
“We’re focused on delivering projects that drive economic growth, create more local jobs, and position Portland as a hub for employers, benefiting the entire region.”
The Portland Diversification Fund forms part of the Portland Economic Diversification Plan, which supports investment to create sustainable long-term jobs growth and better opportunities for locals.
The fund aims to support businesses seeking to develop or expand operations that diversify existing supply chains in Portland and the Glenelg Shire and improve their productivity and competitiveness, as well as working to attract new investment.
Funding for contracted projects is paid in instalments once agreed milestones have been reached. This can include capital expenditure on a project or when certain employment targets are met, or both.
The spokesperson for the State government said that “milestones of any agreement are regarded as commercial in confidence as they often relate to sensitive business information. If a grant is terminated the allocated funds will be returned to the funding stream they came from.”
I’m from Warrnambool so I’m passionate about getting our region’s fair share from Canberra. I’m a broadcaster, author and small business owner who cares deeply about south west Victoria.
G’day, I’m Alex Dyson, your local independent candidate for south west Victoria AlexDysonIndependent
If you vote independent at the next election we can have our first ever representative who was born here, tackle the rising cost of living, improve access to childcare and aged care, and FINALLY FIX OUR ROADS.
Authorised by A. Dyson, 185 Liebig St, Warrnambool 3280.
Picture: LEESA COOK
New venue for the community carols proves a hit
COMMUNITY Christmas Carols had an audience that filled the new Bayview College oval location on Sunday, and all were dressed for the season to be jolly. (Pictures clockwise from left) Portland Citizens’ Brass Band members (from left) Kristyn Cram, Danielle McClintock, Jed Denham, Cecil Baker and others were first to perform. Portland Community Rockers later raised their voices for all to hear, which produced a happy crowd of young ones. Many families and friends brought foldable chairs and picnic blankets along to the carols. The Portland Secondary College band, including Raine Readett, performed to the delight of the audience.
Turn it up for regional youth
THE Turn up the Track Youth Festival last Saturday rocked everybody’s socks off, featuring bands from the Glenelg Shire and Macedon Ranges and headliner Teenage Joans. (Photos clockwise from left) Having one heck of a great time were (from left) Britt Walder, Charlotte Fraser and Grace Vecchio. Drummer for Osmosis Kade Noonan was having fun with his mates up on stage. Taking a turn under the glowing jellyfish, swimming through the audience. The Sliced Diamonds, featuring (from left) Lucien Cecil, Oscar Knight, Benjamin Cadogan and Mars Cecil, had everyone on their feet. Pictures:
NEED A GARDEN SHED OR A WAREHOUSE?
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52 years of community service
GABRIEL GARCIA
PORTLAND’S Pixie Endacott has a gift.
For 52 years she has been helping young mothers with breast feeding.
Last week, Glenelg Shire Mayor Karen Stephens presented Mrs Endacott, who currently is the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) Portland Breastfeeding Group leader, with the ABA’s Judy Gifford Impact Award for her years of volunteering.
For Mrs Endacott, the presentation of the award in front of a group of young mothers in the Portland Botanic Garden came as a complete shock.
“I’m very honoured, because this was totally out of the blue,” she said.
“Judy Gifford was such a special person in the Australian Breastfeeding Association. This is very special for me…to be awarded this.”
Mrs Endacott’s work in breastfeeding stems from a personal part of her life.
“I wanted to breastfeed both my children, and I needed help with my second child,” she said.
“I rang the Nursing Mothers’ Association, as it was then, and they were so helpful and so wonderful that they said, ‘Would I like more information about the Association,’” she said.
“And I said, ‘Yes, please send it’…And so I joined, and I went along to meetings, and I suddenly thought this is pretty special, because in those days there was no internet, no computers, hardly any books about breastfeeding, and no easily accessible information.”
In 1972 Mrs Endacott joined the Nursing Mothers’ Association of Australia (NMAA) in 1972 in Sydney and qualified as a counsellor in 1976.
From there Mrs Endacott went from strength to strength.
She became the first editor of Breastfeeding Review, then a twice-yearly journal, in the early ‘80s and became the first ABA international board-
certified lactation consultant in 1986 and organised the Australian examination procedures for the lactation board in Sydney.
In 1999 Mrs Endacott was appointed as the ABA Victorian branch Training Coordinator and remained in that role till 2003.
In 2004 she was awarded an honorary membership of the ABA.
In 2022 she was appointed group leader of the ABA Portland group.
“We have a monthly meeting where mums and their babies come and just enjoy talking about breastfeeding,” Mrs Endacott said.
Mrs Endacott said the best part of her role is meeting new people.
The ABA’s Portland group breastfeeding educator Lynda Cooper said it was an “absolute honour” to have Mrs Endacott lead the group.
“She’s known right throughout Australia as one of the most experienced breastfeeding counsellors and group administrators.
“Her knowledge can’t be surpassed by anyone. She would have helped thousands of mothers who have rung the helpline with a question or a problem, or possibly in tears…she’s one in a million.”
For anyone needing information about breastfeeding Mrs Endacott said there is plenty available.
“We have a website, www.breastfeeding.asn.au, we have local councillors,” she said.
“We have breastfeeding education classes, we have meetings and lots of resources available on the website and we have a very good relationship with the midwives at the hospital.”
The Judy Gifford Impact Award is given to one ABA volunteer a year in Australia.
AustrAliAn Breastfeeding Association Portland group leader Pixie Endacott (right) has been awarded the Judy Gifford impact Award and was presented it by Glenelg shire Mayor Karen stephens. Picture: lEEsA COOK 241205lc38
Portland Airport upgrades future proof the facility
GABRIEL GARCIA
THE future of Portland Airport is looking up after an almost $20,000 upgrade to the facility.
The upgrade centred around the airport’s AvGas fuel purchasing system, which is the only one in the Glenelg Shire, and cost $17,615.
Money was allocated to the works through the Portland Diversification Fund and has thrilled Portland Aero Club (PAC) president Peter Tapscott.
“The Portland Aero Club greatly appreciates that the Victorian Government and RDV consider the Portland Airport to be a vital piece of infrastructure,” he said.
“The Club is grateful to receive this funding to assist in the necessary upgrades to the fuelling facility.”
The aeroclub spearheaded the effort to complete the upgrade to the facility, which refuels firefighting, charter and private operations as well as aircraft landing in Portland due to unexpected weather or operational issues.
The refuelling facility has a new EFTPOS system which is compatible with the 5G network and will ensure the airport maintains the ability to sell aviation fuel while upholding industry operational and safety expectations. It also makes payment more secure.
Mr Tapscott said between 300-400 people access the refuelling facility which runs 24 hours a day and that such a facility helps boost tourism and the local economy.
“People who fly in, they’ll get a taxi into town, they stay at places like the Quest or Victoria House,” he said.
“It does mean a fair bit to tourism.”
Mr Tapscott said the refuelling facility holds 11,400 litres of AvGas.
PAC member Pete Smith said the refuelling facility is vital for aviation safety.
“One of the critical issues with this facility is that it’s frequently a kind of facility of first and last resort,” Mr Smith said.
“Out there is the ocean. So, if people are on their way to King Island, private operators and charters, and the weather’s a bit dodgy and they need to top up, this is it. In many ways it (the refuelling facility) adds to the safety of aviation.
“And when they’re going towards Adelaide or towards Port Lincoln they’re crossing a lot of water. So, this is a great place to top those tanks, because in aviation fuel is everything. State Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney said the upgrade is a win for the region.
“Having the right infrastructure in place to help our regional communities and industries
thrive is essential, and it’s great to see the Portland Airport will remain an accessible key asset for the greater region,” she said.
“The Portland Aero Club has done an amazing job ensuring that the airport is future-proofed and is able to serve Portland’s growing and changing industries well into the future.” The refuelling facility is maintained and operated by PAC volunteers.
PORTLAND Airport’s new AvGas refuelling facility. According to (from left) Portland Aero Club president Peter Tapscott and club member Pete Smith the new facility is vital for aviation safety in the region.
Picture: KAREN HODGE 241204kh
Established in 1842, the Portland Observer and Guardian is published each Tuesday and Friday, and circulates with almost saturation coverage throughout Portland, Heywood and surrounding rural areas.
Office: 47 Percy St, Portland VIC 3305
Office hours: 9am-5pm Monday to Friday
For out-of-hours classifieds ph: 5572 3800
Phone: (03) 5522 3000; Fax: (03) 5522 2017 E-mail: News to news@observer.net.au Sport to sport@observer.net.au Ads, accounts to admin@observer.net.au Web site: http://www.spec.com.au
Editor: Marlene Punton Deputy editor: Rani Kane Advertising manager: Regan Malseed Classifieds: Phone (03) 5522 3000
The Heywood Herald
Wood, Wine and Roses Festival set to be best yet
HEYWOOD punches well above its weight when it comes to public events and the Wood, Wine and Roses Festival has become an essential summer fixture.
The festival which will be held on Saturday February 22 and will feature many long-term favourites, as well as a large array of new activities and entertainment options.
President of the Wood, Wine and Roses committee Ross Barclay is delighted by the line-up for the next instalment of the festival which has been running for 32 years and is looking stronger than ever.
“We have got something for everybody again,” he said.
District weather
“We have developed a kid’s area down on the riverbank where people can be in the shade with
their younger ones.
“We have got a petting zoo coming, we have Black Snake Productions, we have the Danz X-tensions group, we have a roving entertainer and there will be a stage there with entertainment for the kids throughout the afternoon and it is all under shade, so it is going to be an ideal area for the younger ones.”
As always there will be a wide range of music.
“We have got Billy Bevan, the Ghostriders, the Pacific Belles – they are three ladies who have travelled all over Australia and the world,” he said as well as tribute acts covering material by Pink, Nirvana, Powerfinger and Foo Fighters.
“It will finish off with the fireworks display.”
“We have got a big line-up of stalls and food trucks again,” he said.
“We will have custom cars, carnival rides, jumping castles, highland dancing, the rose
display, the wagon shed will be open, and the wine tent, so there will be plenty going on.
“We have got the Royal Flying Doctors coming with a display plane and demonstrating what they do, and in the wood chop we have an extra category in that called the ‘hot saws’ which hopefully will be bringing some big names from the timber sports.”
A definite highlight will be the return of mower racing.
“Hopefully we are bringing back lawn mower racing which was a big thing years ago,” said Mr Barclay, “and we will have stunt bikes jumping over trucks. There is a lot going on for the day and evening. And of course there’s the street parade.”
Supported by Glenelg Shire it is set to be a huge event. More information can be found at the website: www.woodwineandroses.com.au
Christmas in Heywood
BARRIE BARDOE
NEXT Friday, December 20, will see the annual Christmas on the Town Green in Heywood with kid’s activities, a jumping castle, food and drinks, market stalls. Also featuring will be the Lions Club barbecue and a visit by Santa, all starting at 5pm.
The Promoting Heywood and District committee have been working hard behind the scenes organising the Christmas on the Town Green event.
It is set to be a great festive atmosphere, and this year there will be market stalls where you can buy a last-minute Christmas gift. Bring a picnic blanket and grab a feed from one of the food vendors.
“It would be great to see a lot of families come and enjoy the atmosphere, especially those with younger kids who will get to see Santa at 5pm. The event is free, and everyone is welcome,” the committee stated.
BARRIE BARDOE
Have Your Say
Choosing a new name for Respect Portland
Earlier this month, Respect welcomed the aged care home formerly known as Bupa Portland to our not-for-profit family.
As we start this new chapter with the Portland community, it’s the perfect time to update the home’s name. We’ve already invited staff, residents, and their families to suggest names, and now we’re asking the wider Portland community have their say in this important decision.
Prizes galore for high achieving students
1. ANGUS Meade received the History Excellence Award from teacher Andrew Harris.
CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb37
2. THE Portland Secondary College band performing Superstition by Stevie Wonder.
3. JUNIOR sport captains Macey Williamson and Judd Carter stepped in for the senior captains to give this year’s report.
4. TEACHER Liam Doyle awards Tigrha Cleary with a Student Art Award. Picture: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb17
5. THIS year’s Year Nine high achievers being congratulated on stage. Picture: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb20
6. TASHA Cornish and Harriette Eichler with big smiles after receiving the Language other than English Awards. Picture: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb46
7. DUX of 2023 Makeely Kindred updated her former teachers and peers about her first year of university. Picture: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb13
Presentation night celebrations
CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT
PORTLAND Secondary College commended their high-achieving students at their 2024 presentation evening on Thursday last week.
Many families and community members were in attendance to watch the students receive awards, scholarships and congratulations for their hard work in class this year.
Before introducing the stage party, the PSC band performed Robbie Williams song Let Me Entertain You, which had the audience nodding their heads along.
Principal Joanne Kindred then stepped up to give her report on 2024, which “has proven to be a very busy year,” she said.
“Students have been involved in projects such as Future Leaders of Industry, lots of various competitions, Live 4 Life, citizenship activities and numerous sporting teams,” she said.
“Students were offered the opportunity to grow their leadership skills through the student voice and agency committee, the cross-age peer mentoring program, year-level leadership, the senior school leadership team, college council.
“The college has continued its emphasis on student voice, where students have a legitimate say in how their school should operate, and students have been particularly vocal this year.
“Students have provided direct feedback to their teachers about a range of issues on numerous occasions this year, which has helped shape future directions for the college.”
Other speakers included teacher Braden Dawson, who discussed how game-based learning and virtual reality can change the way students engage within a classroom, and the 2024 school captains Nyla Conheady and Sam Shelton, who reflected on their last year of secondary school.
Also junior sport captains Macey Williamson and Judd Carter delivered their report on the year and school council president Rebecca Fraser kept her report short and sweet.
There was even a short skit written by teacher Ashley Elijah and performed by students called ‘The Psychic Self-Help Life Coach Guru,’ which generated plenty of laughs.
Further into the night, the 2023 dux for PSC Makeely Kindred was invited to give a few words of advice to students sitting in the audience.
“Well, I’m here to say it’s all going to come up a lot quicker than you think,” she said.
“Life happens to you whether you’re ready for it or not.
“Now, I’m definitely not convinced I have any great wisdom to share, but keeping all that in mind, I decided to talk about what I most wanted to know when I was in high school.
“To be honest, I still don’t really know what I’m doing. I started the year enrolled in a Bachelor of Arts at Melbourne University and have now transferred into science with the idea of pursuing psychology, neuroscience, or maybe something more biology-based.
“However, the good news is that not knowing what
I want to do is no longer depressing or terrifying, but actually really exciting.”
The evening was capped off with nibbles and a few more numbers from the PSC band.
2024 Duces: Year 7 – Archer Cumming; Year 8 –Harriette Eichler and Evangelina Dodson; Year 9 –Scarlett McGennisken, Charlee Coates and Henry Von Tunk; Year 10 – Mykaylah Augustakis; Year 11– Mia Pfeiffer.
Technology Excellence Award: Riley Williamson and Abby-Lyn Barr.
Performing Arts Award: Matilda Andrews.
Hommelhoff Music Award: Henry Stirling.
Creative Literature Award: Gina Shemeld.
Public Speaking Award: Daisy Bayona.
Portland Lions Club Scholarships: Erin McPhee, Katie Saliba and Clayton Cox.
Portland RSL subbranch Reg Saunders Scholarship: Sam Shelton.
T.M. and L.M. Doherty Plumbing P/L Scholarships: Vincent Duhilag, Riley Williamson and Ty Matters.
Menzel Electrical Scholarship: Declan Park.
Glenelg Live for Life Scholarship: Scarlett McGennisken.
Port of Portland Re-Engagement Student of the Year Award: Evelyn Kruis.
Port of Portland 2024 Schools Values Award: Tyianah Walmsley.
Tree Top Technicians Scholarship: Mia O’Brien, Richard Walker, and Indiannah Collins.
Australian Olympic Change Maker Award: Matilda Andrews.
Tyrendarra FNC PE Academic Excellence: Matilda Andrews.
Are-Able Values Award: Cody Pendlebury. Workskills Foundation Scholarship: Clayton Cox.
Portland Women’s Service Club – 2024 Merit and Equity Scholarship: Tiarna Sandeman.
Ampol All Rounder: Nyla Conheady.
UNISA Award: Kirby MacLeod. Westvic Award: Jacinta Atchison.
Portland Memorial Bowling Club Middle School Excellence Award: Henry Von Tunk.
Portland Memorial Bowling Club Junior School Excellence Award: Harriette Eichler.
Deakin Award: Oscar Barbary.
South West TAFE Award: Claire Bullock.
Kwong Lee Dow Scholar Program: Kaetlin Dyke and Mykaylah Augustakis.
Portland Freemasons Masonic Community Scholarships and Geoff Hitchman Scholarship: Jayla Ryan, Be-Yel, Ophelia Kort, Lindsee
Wainohu, Brianna Dark, Daniel Norris.
Hands on Learning Award: Leland Pett.
Powerhouse Media Award: Daisy Bayona and Charlee Coates.
ADF Long Tan Leadership Award: Sam Shelton and Daniel Goode.
ADF Future Innovator Awards: Gina Shemeld and Gracie Watt.
Rotary Club Scholarship: Leo Burgess and Chantel Rees.
Lance Allen Memorial Trophy: Sarah Nash.
PEOPLE across the Glenelg Shire can have their say on a new regional creative strategy via a public feedback survey launched this week by Regional Arts Victoria (RAV).
The survey aims to get local views and opinions on the direction of the arts across southwest Victoria.
The first creative strategy saw a four-year commitment from regional stakeholders including Corangamite Shire, Glenelg Shire, Moyne Shire, Southern Grampians Shire and Warrnambool City Council to support the sector, with commitment for another four-year term
10 years of support for loss
CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT
PORTLAND Compassionate Friends
Support Group celebrated 10 years of meetings and assisting one another with the loss of loved ones.
The group is a bereavement support group for people who have lost a child, grandchild or sibling and has supported 40 people over its 10 years.
Past and present participants met with founders Sharon Cole and Betty Los and enjoyed a meal and discussion about how
past meetings have benefitted them.
Group founder Sharon Cole said everyone had a positive comment.
“We are a group that support each other through the grieving process,” she said.
“We meet once a month in a friendly home environment.
“We understand that everyone grieves differently, hence creating a nonjudgmental environment.”
New members are very welcome and can contact Sharon Cole on 0428 349 550.
PRESENT and past members gathered for a warm meal and catch up to celebrate 10 years.
Have your say on creativity in the southwest
being sought in early 2025.
“The creative energy in Victoria’s southwest is palpable. From individual makers and creative organisations to multimillion-dollar local government and tertiary education projects, we see the creative, wellbeing and economic benefits of a region-wide approach by private sector philanthropy, local and state government and the Federal Government’s Regional Arts Fund, “ CEO of Regional Arts Victoria, Jo Porter said.
The evaluation of the 2020-2024 strategy shows
that the region has benefitted from approximately $12 million in funding for creative venues and projects over this period.
RAV’s Southwest Regional Manager, Stacey Barnes urged individuals, organisations and businesses to provide comments on the new strategy.
“In five minutes, you can shape sector support over the next four years. Whatever your connection with arts, culture and creativity, we want to hear from you, from what you need to
learn, to challenges you need help to overcome or ideas you’d like to see brought to life,” Ms Barnes said.
Creative industries include disciplines such as visual and performing arts, digital games, fashion, film, literature and publishing, museums, galleries, architecture, design, advertising, comedy, craft and emerging creative technologies. Visit rav.net.au/swcis or find RAV South West on Facebook to see the draft strategy and have your say before the public feedback survey closes on January 27, 2025.
SCHOOL captains for 2024 Sam Shelton and Nyla Conheady give their report on the year.
Picture: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb29
GLENELG SHIRE Councillor Duane Angelino and Mayor Karen Stephens award Scarlett McGennisken with the Glenelg Live for Life Scholarship.
Picture: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb51
Picture: SUPPLIED
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas
1. A ‘TUTTI Fruity’ Christmas tree created by Admella’s Fruit n Veg and described as a fruit bowl on a tree.
2. ACE Crash Repairs tree of recycled bumpers and car parts.
3. RILEY Healy, 10 (from left), Mathias Pickert, 11, and Leo Healy, 8, in front of the ‘Gingerbread Village’ tree made by South West Community Church.
4. BEATS Cycle for Hope named theirs ‘Tree Wheeler,’ made from recycled bicycles.
5. DARCEY Warren, 5 (from left), Tyler Warren, 2, Ashley Marley, and Winslow Moore, 4, in front of the ‘Forever Tree’ created by Forever Homes.
6. THERE were 115 trees to see at St John’s Lutheran Primary School’s Christmas Tree Exhibition.
7. THE Salvation Army Portland named their tree made of cans ‘Carols by Candlelight.’
Pictures: CHARLIE SAWYER-BASSETT 241208csb60-80
Huge support for local charity cruisers
FROM 4–7 October, members of the Portland and District Motor Enthusiasts Club travelled together on a ‘Cruise for Charity’.
This was a fundraiser to support Portland Hospital (South Ward Palliative Care) to buy items to make things comfortable for families to stay with their sick loved ones.
Twelve teams of two in their classic vehicles and one support vehicle made the trip.
We travelled just over 1000 kilometres in South West Victoria/Mallee visiting Horsham, St Arnaud, Murtoa, Maryborough, Daylesford and Ararat.
The group did some sightseeing
on the way and enjoyed welcoming accommodations, good food, lots of laughs, with a crazy shirt night along the way. All the cars were ‘dressed up’ for the trip showing their cause and displaying the names of our generous sponsors.
Along with the many individual’s family and friends that supported the charity run, we wish to say thank you to the following local businesses for their generous support by way of their donations to the cause. Premix King, BrydensTyrepower, Neart Tide Distillery, Portland Eyecare, SW Tafe, Portland Exhaust Centre, Portland Off Road, Portland Steering and Suspension, Portland Phone Shop, Southern Hair and Beauty Supplies,
Beach House Pizza, Hudson Property, Qube Ports, My Hair Bendigo, Portland Laser Cutting, Brewster Walsh Waters Partners, and thank you to all the people who made donations along the way to the cause.
Special thanks to Andrew Bryant at Portland Signworks for Cruise for Charity signage for the vehicles and Michael Pratt and crew for organising the trip,
We all had a wonderful time, with a great group of people and some quality time in our classic vehicles.
Our Cruise for Charity will be back in 2025.
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PARTICIPANTS
Cruise for Charity THE cruisers pictured on their arrival back into Portland in October.
Friday, December 13, 2024
Open for inspection Saturday 11am – 11:30am
DISCOVER an extraordinary lifestyle opportunity with this stunning 4.5-acre property, just a short stroll from Allestree Beach.
Designed and constructed by renowned local builder Forever Homes, this 34-square residence showcases exceptional quality and attention to detail, offering breathtaking ocean views from multiple vantage points through double-glazed windows.
Inside, the spacious open-plan living area
seamlessly integrates with the kitchen and dining spaces, all positioned to capture not only the coastal vistas but also the winter sun and views of
Mount Clay. Ducted heating ensures year-round comfort, particularly during the cooler winter months. One of the home’s standout features is the fully enclosed entertaining area, complete with an open fireplace and bar, providing a perfect setting for gatherings with friends and family.
The home boasts four well-appointed bedrooms, three of which offer stunning sea views and ample storage. The third bedroom includes a cleverly integrated office space within its storage area.
The luxurious master suite offers a retreat-like experience, featuring a spacious ensuite and a generous walk-in robe.
Practicality meets modern convenience with the large 7×7-meter attached garage. Outside, the property continues to impress with an 18×9-meter workshop, additional shedding, a bore, a 6.3kilowatt solar system, and ample rainwater storage. The paddocks, complete with a small shelter, currently house resident alpacas, adding to the rural charm.
Situated just a short drive from the vibrant seaside town of Portland, this property offers the perfect blend of coastal living, comfort, and functionality. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to secure your own slice of paradise!
Local Property Guide
Peaceful location
SITUATED in a peaceful court location, 16 Admella Court offers the ideal setting for a growing family.
This spacious four-bedroom home features a well-thought-out layout, including a formal lounge and an open-plan kitchen and dining area, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. A versatile sunroom provides an additional living space or a cozy retreat. All four bedrooms include built-in robes, while the main bedroom boasts an ensuite for added convenience. The second bathroom is designed with functionality in mind, offering a separate
making it a fantastic opportunity for families seeking a serene and versatile home.
Development opportunity in a stunning location
LOCATED in the charming township of Narrawong, just a 15-minute drive from the coastal hub of Portland, CA 5 Bridge Road presents an exceptional opportunity to create your ideal summer retreat or dream home.
This generous 3,069m² block offers ample space for development, allowing you to design a property perfectly suited to your lifestyle. A planning permit has been granted to sub-divide the land into three blocks. Nestled within a peaceful community, the property is just a short stroll from the picturesque Narrawong River, where locals and visitors alike enjoy fishing, kayaking, and relaxing by the beach. With its quiet coastal charm and welcoming community, Narrawong is an idyllic destination for those seeking a serene getaway or a permanent escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Embrace the opportunity to join this vibrant yet tranquil community and make your coastal living dreams a reality.
For more information contact Assets Real Estate today!
Magnificent building sites (STCA) offering panoramic ocean & Portland City views with Mt Clay vistas. Zoned rural/residential with opportunity to subdivide into 4 HA / 10 AC lots (STCA).
Safely held, fertile, healthy limestone country, offered for the first time in almost 100 years. Well fenced into 4 paddocks with central laneway system for ease of management. Perennial pastures including lucerne, with stock water supplied by mill on shallow bore with excellent water quality. Holding yards easily converted to cattleyards. Situated 15km east of the historic deep sea port of Portland which is a regional hub with numerous tourist attractions. Furthermore the property is walking distance to Narrawong Village which offers general store and post office, swimming beach, with Surrey River mouth providing popular swimming and fishing. Narrawong caravan park is a popular tourist destination. EXPRESSIONS OF
Local Property Guide
Rural lifestyle awaits Open for inspection Saturday from 12pm – 12.45pm
61 HOLMES and Talbotts Rd is calling for expression of interest as we offer up what is sure to be a well sought after property!
Discover the coastal charm and rural lifestyle at 61 Holmes and Talbotts, a spacious four-bedroom, two-bathroom brick veneer family home set on 33 acres. Perfectly positioned 27km from Portland, 46km from Port Fairy and a short 13-minute drive to the Fitzroy River, where you can take a relaxing stroll along the beach, enjoy a spot of fishing, or spend the weekends camping, this property offers both tranquillity and potential. The home features a formal sunken living area and a north-facing kitchen and dining space that overlooks the backyard.
The main bedroom boasts a walk-in robe and en-suite, while the remaining bedrooms offer built-in robes. A study adds flexibility, and the elevated north-facing patio provides sweeping views of the paddocks. The property is ideal for aspiring farmers, with seven well-fenced paddocks complete with bore-fed troughs, two large water tanks, a shearing
While mostly original, the home is ripe for modern updates, making it an excellent opportunity for a family seeking a rural lifestyle or a small-scale farming venture.
Contact Assets Real Estate today to find out more.
THIS is a fantastic opportunity to purchase a move-in-ready property, complete with all furnishings and inclusions as part of a walk-in, walk-out package.
This beautifully transformed Portland home has recently served as a rewarding investment property, offering excellent potential for both homeowners and investors alike.
Situated in the increasingly popular township renowned for its fishing and stunning coastline, this three-bedroom home provides plenty of living space for residents to spread out and enjoy. A north-facing sunroom floods the space with natural light and warmth during the winter months, complemented by gas heating and splitsystem climate control for year-round comfort. The modern kitchen has been thoughtfully designed with ample storage, making it both practical and stylish.
adds
Set on a generous 1,012m² block, the property also boasts a secure, spacious yard, perfect for families or
and convenience. Don’t miss your chance to secure this turnkey home
Friday December 13
13 Finn Street, Portland, 4:40pm – 5pm.
Saturday December 14
7 Juliani Place, Portland, 9:30am – 9:50am; 11 Grant Street, Portland, 9:30am – 9:50am; 21 Camira Street, Portland, 10am – 10:20am; 8 Athalie Street, Portland, 10am – 10:20am; 5 Carcoola Crescent, Portland, 10:30am – 10:50am; 185 Wyatt Street, Portland, 10:30am – 10:50am; 19 Snapper Point Road, Allestree, 11am – 11:30am; 11 Richardson Street, Portland, 11am – 11:20am; 61 Holmes & Tablotts Road, Tyrendarra, 12pm – 12:45pm.
Thursday December 19 Portland Lifestyle Estate – 120 Derril Road, 11am – 12pm.
Church news
All Saints Church
THE gospel for the third Sunday of Advent finds John the Baptist (Luke 3:10-17) answering the questions of the multitude who have come to repent, be baptised and to hear how to become better people of God.
“What then shall we do?” they ask.
John replies, “He who has two coats, let him share with him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise”. John also gives advice to tax collectors and soldiers on fairness and avoiding greed and unnecessary violence.
As people start to wonder if the holy man John is the Messiah they were expecting, he makes it very clear he is far inferior to the one they are waiting for, “... he who is mightier than I is coming, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie; he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire”. John’s role is to prepare hearts for Jesus.
In this giving season, our church will be partnering with the Salvation Army again in providing Christmas hampers for those who need them. All Saints Outreach pays for the meat component and this year the amount per hamper is $40. Those wishing to contribute to this are asked to put the money in an envelope marked ‘Meat Trays 2024’ and put it in the plate at Mass, or if donating electronically mark the transaction as ‘MT 2024’ in your EFT reference into the Parish account. This appeal will conclude on 15th December.
Anglican Church
THIS Sunday we will light the third Advent candle, the pink candle signifying Joy, as we prepare for the celebration of the coming of Our Lord.
God is good, and we continue with great hope for the future.
Heywood Community Christmas Carols will be sung on Sunday December 15 at 7pm at the Uniting Church.
Christmas Service times, Christmas Eve, 7pm St James’ Tyrendarra, 9pm St John’s Heywood, 11pm St Stephen’s Portland, Christmas Day 11pm St Stephen’s Portland.
He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. Daniel 2:21 NIV
The Book group has been moved to the Narthex on Mondays at 2.00 pm. We are doing an Advent study leading up to Christmas. ABM have just released ‘ Caravan’ Incarnational stories set in an Australian Landscape.
Our thanks to those who continually help to stock our Parish Pantry. Please consider adding an extra item to your groceries to donate. Let us help to make Christmas a bit brighter for others.
Coffee, Chat and Morning Prayer is celebrated each Friday at 9am at Heywood Bakery.
St John’s Heywood, welcome all to Coffee, Craft and Chat on Wednesday 18 December 10am.
Portland Men’s Happy Hour final gathering for the year is on Thursday 19 December, 5.30pm for drinks, followed by dinner. They will be joined by the Ladies. The group will meet again on the last Thursday in January as usual. All welcome to join prayer and fellowship.
Coffee, cake and chat at Port of Call each Wednesday about 11ish, following Eucharist at St Stephen’s.
We pray continually for a lasting peace in the Middle East, Ukraine and throughout our world.
“Do not fear. The Lord your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love.” Zephaniah 3.16-17
Lutheran Church
DO you remember as a kid, the pirate’s treasure map would have a letter ‘X’ to mark the spot where the treasure was hidden?
There are a lot more ‘X’s all around the place now, with Christmas almost upon us, because of the ‘X’ in Xmas, the abbreviation of the word Christmas.
There’s an argument that this removes Christ from Christmas, and in a way, it does, because Christ is no longer obvious.
But Jesus is still involved. Jesus is always involved in Christmas. Because the ‘X’ in Xmas actually refers to Christ, i.e. Jesus Christ. The Greek letter Chi looks like an ‘X’, and ‘X’ has long been used as an abbreviation for Christ. I don’t doubt that some use ‘Xmas’ to keep Christ
out of Christmas, and it’s also harder to see that Christ belongs there when replaced with an ‘X’ – Greek or otherwise. I actually prefer the full, unabbreviated “Christmas” myself, regardless of how much extra space it takes up on the page. It just looks right. But it’s good to know that when people write “Xmas”, Christ is still present.
Incidentally, do you remember the pirate’s treasure map I mentioned earlier? At Christmas, ‘X’ really does mark the spot, with Christ being central to Christmas. Jesus Christ is the true treasure of Christmas, in the life and love he offers to all humanity.
Let Jesus be the Christ in your Christmas, however you spell it.
Everyone is welcome to come to church.
Contact: 55231471; Pastor Stan: 0422220629; Facebook: “Portland-Heywood Lutheran Church-Official”
Portland Baptist Church
THIS week marks the third week of Advent. Advent invites Christians to pause and prepare for the coming of Jesus, not only as the child in the manger but also as the victorious King who will defeat evil and return to make all things new. For some Christians, the thought of Jesus’ second coming is accompanied by fear and anxiety. This fear is often fuelled by past experiences, cultural and theological interpretations, and current world events.
But as we journey through Advent, Scripture calls us to a very different posture - one of joy and confident anticipation. The prophet Zephaniah in Chapter 3 Verses 14-20 paints a beautiful picture of God’s promise of hope. He speaks of a day when God will remove our punishment, defeat our enemies, and dwell with us as a mighty Savior: “Do not fear, Zion; do not let your hands hang limp. The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves” (see also Isaiah 12:2).
Advent is a time to rejoice in the assurance of salvation and to prepare our hearts for the return of our good and just King, Jesus. As you reflect this week, consider how can you replace fear with joyful expectation? How can you prepare your heart to welcome Jesus with confidence and peace? God bless, Pastor Jon.
Portland Uniting Church SALUTATIONS, hopefully your December preparations are going smoothly. Our Advent continues as we focus on Joy this week to accompany Hope and Peace from previous weeks.
The ability to see the Joy of God in our daily lives comes easy to some of us and for others it starts as choice before it becomes second nature. We shared in a joyful Family Christmas last weekend. We are grateful for all the Portland and Junior Community Rockers, and families, who came along.
During this gathering it was highlighted that God’s Christmas Story and miracle gives us a glimpse of what is possible in our world, if we all contribute towards the goal.
We’d be joyful if you could join us at 10:15am Worship, in person or via Zoom this Sunday. Zoom information available through the Office email (below).
Weekly Activities held 10am until 12noon. Tuesdays 3C’s Craft group – bring your project and join us.
Thursdays Open Door – Everyone is welcome to gather with our Volunteers for a cuppa and conversation.
Op Shop news.
Our Volunteers invite you to visit during: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 3pm and Saturday 10am – 12noon.
‘As we await the celebration of your coming, Jesus the Christ, we pray for the blessing of your presence in this world that you love so much. Amen.’ Sourced: Fig Tree Worship Resources. Contact us via: Chairperson Gilbert Wilson –0432 594 975; Supply Minister Rev Peter Cook – 0488 724 882; Office phone number – 5523 2455; Office email address – office@portland. victas.uca.org.au; Facebook – www.facebook. com/PortlandUnitingChurch
South West Community Church
THE countdown is on for Christmas 2024.
On Sunday the 22nd of December we invite you to our annual Carols by Candlelight service at 10am. There will be free led candles and glo sticks available and plenty of carol singing and Christmas festivities to enjoy with your family and friends.
At the conclusion of the service there will be a morning tea available for all who would like to stay.
South West Community Church will not have a service on Christmas Day but will continue our weekly 10am Sunday services through the Christmas and New Year period.
We pray that you have a lovely Christmas with your family and friends that encompasses much love, peace, hope and joy.
‘After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Wise Men from the East came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.’ (Matthew 2).
Australia
A USTRALIA has broken its annual electric vehicle (EV) sales record, reaching a milestone of 100,000 so far this year, according to the Electric Vehicle Council.
EVC data and public data shows more than 100,000 EVs have been sold so far in 2024, outpacing the previous record of about 98,400 sales in 2023.
Electric Vehicle Council’s head of policy, legal and advocacy Aman Gaur said: “2024 has been a record-breaking year for EV uptake in Australia, with new sales surpassing 100,000 for the first time in a year - and that’s before the year has even ended.
“Reaching this annual milestone of 100,000 EV sales is a clear signal that Australians want modern, sustainable cars that are fun to drive.
“Despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures making it harder to purchase a new car upfront, EV sales have still outpaced previous years. EVs are
becoming more affordable thanks to a variety of budget-friendly models, more competition across all vehicle types and government incentives.
“One of the easiest ways to save money right now is by driving an electric car - Australians can save thousands of dollars a year by avoiding high petrol prices and expensive mechanics costs from petrol cars.
“Looking ahead to 2025, we’re optimistic that EV adoption in Australia will continue to grow, especially with the introduction of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, which is set to deliver even more affordable and a greater choice of low and zero emissions cars.
“Reaching milestones in EV adoption is exciting - governments can build on this momentum by offering more incentives to improve EV affordability, expanding charging infrastructure, and updating regulations to support the sector’s growth and create local jobs.”
Emergency Services Expo
1. PORTLAND SES unit volunteers (left) Ray Polaski and Jeremy Reynolds were keen to show the community the services’ trucks during Saturday’s Emergency Services Expo.
NICOLE CLEARY 241207nc43
2. LEADING Firefighter Ben Kilday on the aerial fire truck’s platform, which extended high above the action.
3. THE Forest Fire Management team (from left) Simon Sealey, Jess Greenwood, Sarah Pedrazzi, Rhys Weber and Eliza Fitzpatrick.
4. FOUR-YEAR-OLD Marcus Merrett learning to put out fires with Portland CFA’s Brad McDougall.
5. PORTLAND police (from left) Ryan Nelson, Jess Cummings and Andrew Payne keeping the foreshorePicture:safe.NICOLE CLEARY 241207nc69
6. ST John’s Ambulance Victoria’s Michelle Lou teaches kids how to perform CPR.
7. COAST Guard Portland brought along one of their rescue boats to display.
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DOGS indoor toilet grass training mats and plastic tray, never used, includes two mats, 60 cm x 50 cm; $35. 5523 6336.
HIMALYAN salt lamp, 5 kg; $39. 5523 6336.
OUTDOOR table with 8 chairs to give away. Phone 0418 548 434.
GARAGE SALE
5A Henty St, Portland, Fri 13th, Sat 14th, Sun 15th, 10am till 3pm each day.
16 Flinders St, Sat 9am - 2pm. Lots of interesting items.
PATRICK St, Friday 12-3 and Saturday 8-11, sign out.
4 Shevill Court (off Salthouse St), Saturday, 14th Dec, 9am till 1pm. Clothes, household items, jiqsaw puzzles, etc.
EMPLOYMENT
LIVESTOCK & PETS
GERMAN Shepherd pups, L.S.C., born 3.7.24, both parents showdogs, A-Z stamp, great temperament, well socialised in family environment, 956000017036491, 17545996, 17539742, source no RB103637, registered breeder with Vic dogs and GSC Victoria. 0408 107 088.
TO LET
INDUSTRIAL shed, 18 m x 24 m. 5523 1090.
MC Driver
Add COLOUR to your ad to make it stand out
DVD and media player, 9’’ Sylvania,
$49 o.n.o.
5523 6336.
forward application and resume to nieldsofmacarthur@bigpond.com
Child Protection - Beginning to Senior level rolesJob Share
Wimmera South West Area
CPP3: $76,817 - $93,275 (Qualification dependant) per annum (plus superannuation)
CPP4: $95,102 - $107,905 per annum (plus superannuation)
CPP5.1: $109,730 - $121,247 per annum (plus superannuation)
Ongoing & Fixed Term position available
Joining the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) Child Protection program means making a real change to the lives of others, keeping families safe and strong. The work of a Child Protection Practitioner is complex, challenging, and rewarding. Practitioners need to have specialist child welfare knowledge and the ability to engage children, young people and their families.
We have roles available at all levels:
• Child Protection Practitioner – CPP3, is the first step in a rewarding career
• Advanced Child Protection Practitioner – CPP4, is an opportunity to consolidate and develop your practice
• Senior Child Protection Practitioner – CPP5, is an opportunity to use your expertise to take the next step in your career
Wimmera South West Area is currently participating in a job share pilot for Child Protection Practitioners, these roles are specifically for those who want to job share the one role and the workload of the role. We are ideally looking for someone who is available three (3) days per week
(so that the job share partners can have one cross-over day to discuss urgent matters, obtain peer review on cases, etc.), however applications are still welcomed from those who are available to work less than three (3) days per week.
Contact for further information: Jenna Denniss, Email: jenna.denniss@dffh.vic.gov.au
Reference number: DFFH/COPL/WSWA/Job Share
Applications close: 29 December 2024
For more information about this opportunity, please go to www.careers.vic.gov.au and download a position description to view departmental information, the selection criteria, our pre employment screening requirements and our Diversity and Inclusion commitments.
EMPLOYMENT
Statutory Planner • Executive Manager People & Culture • Team Leader Works (Heywood) • Systems Administrator
Tyre Fitter
We are currently seeking a dedicated person to join our small team, Trident have been a long-standing local business in Portland and are very focused on customer and staff satisfaction.
Experience preferred but not essential. Training will be provided. If this position is of interest to anyone that can bring a skill set to our company, we would like to hear from you.
Please send resume or letter of interest to terry@tridenttyres.com.au or drop into the store and meet the manager, Terry Preece.
Applications close 11/10/2024
1 Kalina Court, Portland Phone 5523 2438
Locally owned and proud trident@tridenttyres.com.au www.tridenttyres.com.au
Acting Director of Clinical Services
Fixed Term – 40 hours per week
We have an exciting opportunity for a Registered nurse with high level people management, leadership and advanced communication skills to join our team as the Acting Director of Clinical Services. This position is a 14 month fixed term Maternity leave position. The position is expecting to begin Mid February 2025 through until Mid April 2026.
For the key selection criteria, position description and the minimum requirements for the role please see our website www.heywoodruralhealth.vic.gov.au/careers
Applications Close: Sunday 15th December 2024
Any queries please contact, Taneha Benson, Director of Clinical services, Taneha.benson@heywoodruralhealth.vic.gov.au
Send your letter of application addressing the key selection criteria, along with your resume, and two current referees to: People and Culture Department, Heywood Rural Health hr@heywoodruralhealth.vic.gov.au
PO BOX 159, Heywood, VIC 3304 www.heywoodruralhealth.vic.gov.au
“Committed to the health and wellbeing of our community”
• Temporary Onsite accommodations (upon availability)
• Negotiable and flexible package on offer
• Flexible working supported where possible
Heywood Rural Health welcomes all suitably qualified people from diverse backgrounds inclusive of Culture, Race, Genders, Sexuality, LGBTIQ+ and abilities to apply
Acting Home Care Packages Program Manager
Fixed Term – 24 hours per week
(January 2025 to July 2025)
We are seeking a suitably qualified applicant to join our team as a Home Care Packages Program Manager for a fixed term period. The successful candidate shall provide exceptional care and services with consumers of the Heywood Rural Health Home Care Packages Program. The Home Care Packages Program Manager shall be responsible for managing and leading the Home Care Packages staff and resources, within a Home care packages framework.
For the key selection criteria, position description and the minimum requirements for the role please see our website www.heywoodruralhealth.vic.gov.au/careers
Applications close: Monday December 16th 2024
Any queries please contact Jacki Barnett, Senior Director of Clinical and Community Services, jacki.barnett@heywoodruralhealth.vic.gov.au
“Committed to the health and wellbeing of our community.”
Heywood Rural Health welcomes all suitably qualified people from diverse backgrounds inclusive of Culture, Race, Genders, Sexuality, LGBTIQ+ and abilities to apply
Big weekend of racing
PORTLAND hosted an abundance of local and out of town talent in different disciplines across the weekend with the Portland District Karting Club holding the State Cup while the Portland Swimming Club had their annual meet.
4. Lexie
gathers her breath at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre.
5. There were plenty of close races on Saturday and Sunday at the State Cup.
6. Readying to dive is Portland swimmer Emily Carr.
1. Karters race around the track at Yarraman Park on Sunday.
2. Working through his lane is Zeke Cleary during his backstroke event.
3. Eastern Lions Karting Club’s Steve Pegg walks a kart through the pits.
Munn
7. Ruby Smith charges down the pool on Saturday.
Pictures: KAREN HODGE and NICOLE CLEARY
Gorae-Portland signing eyes T20 glory
NICK MOSELEY
AFTER a tough start to the Hamilton District Cricket Association season in the game’s longer formats, Gorae-Portland have shown their strength in the recent T20 games and their most recent win over Portland Colts was helped by a surprise late showing by Nepalese newcomer, Raju Tamang.
Go-Ports found themselves at 5/68 with just four overs left to set a competitive total, and after Tamang had strolled to the crease it took him just six balls to hit his first boundary, a massive six to get off the mark.
Tamang’s big-hitting onslaught made up one side of a 63-run fifth wicket partnership with Luke Rietman, the pair steering their side to 5/131 as the innings ended.
When all was said and done, Tamang had quickly scored an unbeaten 47 runs which came off 31 balls, his four fours and three sixes helping him achieve a strike rate of over 151.
Tamang said he was pleased to help his side to the win, their second in two T20 clashes, and that he enjoyed playing the fast-paced T20 games.
“Colts are a good team, and they had us five down for not many runs,” he said.
“That was when I got told that I would be going in next, and I just felt totally ready to go out there.
“It was a good innings, and I guess it was just my day.
“I’m usually more of an opening bowler, but I think I can be a bit of an all-rounder in the T20 games, I like to score quickly.”
Having grown up idolising batsmen like Indian superstar Sachin Tendulkar, Tamang’s free-scoring style is more akin to his current favourite batsman, Australian star Travis Head while he also said he styles his bowling on Aussie spearhead Mitchell Starc.
Tamang grew up in Pokhara, a picturesque, lakeside city in central Nepal which draws tourists due to its famous natural beauty and exciting opportunities for adventure.
It was while Tamang was growing up in Nepal that he started playing cricket at the age of 10 for his local club, and his love for the sport grew from that age and continues more than 20 years
later for the 31-year-old.
“When I was growing up we would all play football and cricket,” Tamang said.
“Now cricket is growing so much back in Nepal, it is becoming a very big sport.
“The pitches back there were very flat but in Australia they are all so grassy and bouncy - I prefer to bowl on Australian pitches, it helps me with my swing and bounce.”
Tamang said that his ability to play cricket in Nepal had taken a back seat through his adulthood as he juggled family life and running his business, a café and restaurant in Pokhara.
Tamang, his wife and his young daughter made the move to Australia 18 months ago, originally residing in Melbourne where Tamang had played cricket with Jacana Cricket Club, a side who made the final of North West Metropolitan Cricket Association’s Brian Moss Shield.
While he enjoyed his time with the Craigieburn club, Tamang said that he was enjoying Portland and the cricket on offer after he and his family moved to town for his wife to follow a career opportunity.
“With Jacana we would just play on the Saturday and didn’t have any training, but now I’m here and we train twice a week so I like that part of the local cricket culture,” he said.
“The team was a lot of people from our Nepali community, and we didn’t have the same facilities that I now have access to at GoraePortland, it’s nice to be able to train with a bowling machine.
“The team has been very welcoming and nice to me, and our captain Nick Wills has been helping me a lot with how to bat on the local pitches and what to expect from them.”
With Go-Ports having the last couple of weekends off due to game washouts and a bye, Tamang said he was pleased to have some time off to spend time with those most important to him, his family.
“My wife has been so supportive and encouraging of me playing cricket,” he said.
“It was nice to spend time with my daughter and my wife and mother-in-law, my family is so important to me.
“My daughter is only nine months old, so maybe one day she will pick up a cricket bat and play the sport.”
RAJU Tamang is one of Gorae-Portland’s newest cricket signings in the 2024-25 season.
Aside from the beaches and the weather, Tamang said he had enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people in town, which included another new Portland cricket signing, Shanaka Silva.
When speaking with the Observer on Tuesday Tamang said he hoped for a good performance in last night’s T20 cash against Portland Tigers.
“My wife and (Shanaka’s) wife are friends through work now, and I’ve only just met him through cricket too,” he said.
“I’ll do my best this week when we play Portland Tigers in the T20, hopefully I can get Shanaka out, he’s my target.
“They’re a good team, but hopefully we can win the game and do well in the T20 competition.”
Thrilling finishes ahead in round seven
NICK MOSELEY
PORTLAND Tigers will need to carry on their form in the Hamilton District Cricket Association with the ball this weekend, with the result of their two-day game against Casterton District balancing on a knife’s edge.
With Casterton set to resume their chase at 5/36 and needing just 38 runs to surpass the Tigers’ total, the Tigers will need quick wickets to fall if they want to surge up from ninth spot on the two-day ladder.
With the top order of Casterton District’s team back in the dressing room thanks to a spirited bowling display from Shanaka Silva, the Tigers will look again to the paceman to be the answer to their precarious position. Silva’s bowling was unplayable at times last weekend, as he finished the afternoon with figures of 4/3 from his 12 overs which included 10 maidens and coming into Saturday with fresh legs makes Silva a frightful prospect for Casterton’s lower order.
You can expect Llewellyn Oakley and Artie Harvey to continue to toil with the ball again this weekend, both having bowled six overs for no wickets while conceding few runs, while Chad Finck can be an x-factor with his pace after he bowled three scoreless overs last weekend.
Portland Colts v Tahara
At one point last weekend, Tahara may have thought they’d be heading out to chase down around 100 runs this weekend, before Matt Payne and Mat Belden swung the needle in Colts favour to push their total over 260 runs. The question remains if the total is too much for Tahara, especially against a multi-faceted bowling lineup such as Colts, with the side only surpassing 150 once this season, in the second innings of their round four loss to St Andrews.
Colts skipper Luke Evans remains the most impactful with ball in hand for his side, fresh off consecutive five-wicket hauls against
College and in the HDCA representative game against Horsham.
But all four of Jak Hotchkiss, Mat Belden, Riley Cook and Oscar Barbary have taken three-wicket hauls so far this season and have the ability to claim wickets in quick succession if they’re on song.
Taine Morris, Brad Gauci and Harry Armstrong all possess the ability to make runs when called upon, Morris leading the side with 140 runs at an average of 35 from his six matches.
South Portland v Tyrendarra
Tyrendarra are on the verge of an outright victory in their clash against South Portland at Cavalier Park, with the Darras needing nine more wickets as South Portland chase another 115 runs.
After all 10 Demons batsmen failed to fire in the first innings, Tyrendarra scored quickly as Jordi Withers put together a strong innings of 51 not out with support from Sam Wilson’s 26
run performance.
Currently sitting at 1/3 off six overs, South Portland batsmen Rory Barry and Noah Liersch will return to the middle in hopes of building a strong partnership off which the Demons can build upon.
Tighe Warburton and Karsen Edwards are another pair who can score well, while South Portland captain Scott Martin remains an everpresent threat with willow in hand.
Sam Wilson and Will Kirk will both look to replicate their performances with the ball last weekend, while Jake Wilson’s one over in the second innings was a fruitful one as he claimed the first wicket of South Portland’s second innings.
Other games
Elsewhere, Hamilton have a mountain to climb as they look to chase College’s total of 331, while St Andrews will need to tally 246 runs if they want to claim the points against Pigeon Ponds.
Last round action ahead of holiday break
Heywood takes out school tournament
LAST week Portland Memorial Bowling Club held the Secondary Student Triples Tournament, despite only having one green available. Heywood and District Secondary College, Bayview College and the Portland Bay School all participated in the event. Heywood and District Secondary College proved to be too strong, taking the honours on both days.
The winning team were Cooper Pevitt, Arley Hiscock and Harry Rose taking out first placing on both days, whilst second prize went to Daniel Sanderson, Jack Rose and Cohen Peatling also from Heywood. The generous prize money awarded to the place getters was provided by Elijah’s Sportspower, the major sponsor of the event. Other sponsors to be noted for their generosity were Voyage Surf, Ski & Skate, Gunna’s Surf, Betta Electrics, The Phone Shop, Harbour Lights and Portland Memorial Bowling Club.
Western District Pennant Association
The Portland Memorial Makos welcomed Warrnambool City Gold last Saturday who were sitting in the middle of the ladder. The Makos were keen to get back into the action after a washout the week before. At the halfway stage the Makos had a comfortable 20 shot lead. After all rinks were tested early, the rink of Stephen Arthur, Ian Grayson, Tom Englezos and Peter Cottier had a good solid win over a good opposition and won 24/21. Kim Overall, Chris Fleming, Nick Seekamp and Clayton Holcombe bowled very well all day, coming up with a big rink 31/13. Chris Elford, Dean Beckman Rick Angelino and Graeme Solly were tested all day and had a good rink win 20/12.Overall the score was 75/46 which has consolidated top spot on the ladder.
The Makos sit in top spot on the ladder after eight rounds and this week travel to Koroit in which looms as a danger game for the Makos who will want to consolidate their position on the ladder. The team for Round 9 against Koroit has been printed as follows: Peter Cottier(s), Tom Englezos, Ian Grayson and Steve Arthur; Graeme Solly, Kelvin Wiffen, Ricky Angelino and Chris Elford; Clayton Holcombe, Nick Seekamp, Chris Fleming and Kim Overall.
Congratulations to Kim Overall, Chris Elford, Chris Fleming and Steve Arthur and Jason Dean on winning
their sections in the State Singles event held over the weekend. The next round will be held on Sunday December 15 at a venue to be advised.
Far Western Pennant Association
Division one welcomed Balmoral to the shark tank and gave them little time to catch their breath before hitting them hard on all three rinks, with overall scores etched up with 95 shots to Memorial and 37 to Balmoral. John Wallis and his team of Ken Evans, Darren Body and Shane Martin had the highest rink score of 37 to Dan Brody’s 10. On the nearby rink Des Pitts stepped back into the skipper role for this match and along with Ted Leahy, Bob McIntyre and Jason Dean were able to compile 28 shots to Pegleg 15. Meanwhile Chris Bramley and his crew of Greg Hoggan, John Holien and Simon Hein easily accounted for Derek Brody and team with 30 shots to 12. Memorial are placed second on the ladder four points behind the leaders Portland.
The division two contest saw the Memorials, Red and Blue match up. Overall scores at the completion of the game were Memorial Red 49 to Memorial Blue 23. The Steve Turner rink had the win of the day against Rob Hamblin, Ronnie Bramley, Trish Watt and Wayne England. Jan deZoete, Jim Bryden and Rod Beauglehole supported their skipper, Turner with consistent bowling creating a total of 30 shots against the Hamblin team eight shots. Gerry Watt v Geoff Sturzaker was a closer encounter.
Watt along with Ron Robinson, Trevor Wynniat and Peter Pevitt rolled up 19 shots against Sturzaker, Meredith Fredericks, Don McGowan and Robyn McCabe 15. Ladder positions for the two teams are Memorial Red on top, whilst Blue fill the bottom of the ladder.
Division three were involved in a close encounter of the Grangeburn kind, crossing the line with 35 shots to Grangeburn’s 32. Terry Barclay, Martin McKeever, Rob Liddle and Terry Stanley had a three shot deficit, marking down 15 shots to Stewart Campbell’s 18. The nearby rink of Gary Milich, Ian Merrett, Richard Mately and June Leahy, maintained their season consistency marking up another win for the card of 20 shots to Peter Moore’s team 14. Memorial are sitting top of the ladder, closely followed by Dartmoor and Hamilton Gold.
Portland Bowling Club winners
PORTLAND Bowling Club’s singles club champion was won by Kerry Alexander, with Heather Burgess claiming runner up. The club held their sponsored hams day on Thursday December 5, Di Walsh and Keith Meerbach were the winners and Barry Jennings and Marree Matters finished runners up.
Social Bowls will continue throughout the break over Christmas and new year and Barefoot Bowls is on every Friday evening at 5.30pm
for the
Teams for Weekend Pennant Round 11:
Division one travel to Hamilton and the team has been named as follows: John Wallis(s), Dean Beckman, Ken Evans and Shane Martin; Chris Bramley(s), Des Pitts, Ted Leahy and Jason Dean; Greg Dobbins(s), Greg Hoggan, John Holien and Simon Hein.
Division two Memorial Red head off to Grangeburn: Steve Turner(s), Jan deZoete, Jim Bryden and Rod Beauglehole; Paul Soffe(s), Gerry Watt, Ron Robinson and Trevor Wynniat.
Division two Blue team are at home against Hamilton Gold: Bob McIntyre(s), Meredith Fredericks, Terry Stanley and Robyn McCabe; Don McGowan(s), Robert Hamblin, Peter Sierat and Wayne England.
Division three are also at home against Hamilton Green: Gary Millach(s), Ian Merrett, Peter Pevitt and June Leahy; Terry Barclay(s), Martin McKeever, Rob Liddle and Wendy Gray.
Midweek report
Division one welcomed Grangeburn to the shark tank and were able to produce an overall win of 82 to 47. There were two rink scores replicating a winning score of 29. John Wallis, Dean Beckman, Trevor Wynniat combined well to produce a comfortable win on the day, marking 29 on the card to Ruben Ross 16. Steve Arthur, Des Pitts, Ted Leahy and Robyn McCabe also bowled consistently to tally 29 shots to Ken Prewett and team 13. The closest rink on the day was the Graeme Solly rink, consisting of Ian Grayson, Jan
deZoete and Mike Rentoul who despite the best of efforts were down 9 to 13 on the score card at half time. After the break, some multiples made the difference culminating in a final score of 24 to Owen Ross 18. Division one sit on top of ladder.
Division two were also playing their bowls at home against Grangeburn Blue and were able to come up with the win on the day, overall scores Memorial 43 to Grangeburn Blue 28. Gerry Watt, Tnk Imbi, Wayne England and June Leahy had a score of 18 to 7 mid break and were able to maintain their momentum to take the win against Phillip Kosch and team 23 to 15. Rob Hamblin and his team of Meredith Fredericks, Kathryn Beauglehole and Joan Englezos were up against it leading into half time, trailing 6 shots to 9. Persistence after the break ensured a winning streak turning their way, culminating in a win 23 to Rosemary Spencer 13. Division two are placed third on the pennant ladder.
Division three fell against Portland on their home turf, 39 to 50. Ian Benbow, Trish Watt and Ian Benbow compiled 14 shots to Maree Matters 24. Robert Liddle, Bev Smith and Heather Liddle also suffered a loss but only by a mere one shot, going down 25 to Myra Bourke 26. Division 3 still maintain top position on the ladder.
Teams for Midweek Pennant Round 11:
Currently at the time of print the FWPA Midweek Pennant teams for round 11, being played on December 17, have been named as follows:
Division one are welcoming Hamilton: Graeme Solly(s), Ian Grayson, Jan deZoete and Mike Rentoul; Steve Arthur(s), Des Pitts, Ted Leahy and Robyn McCabe; John Wallis(s), Dean Beckman, Trevor Wynniat and Leanne Evison.
Division two travel away to Grangeburn Red and teams have been named as follows: Ian Benbow(s), Meredith Fredericks, Rob Hamblin and Kathryn Beauglehole; Gerry Watt(s), Tink Imbi, Wayne England and June Leahy.
Division three host Casterton: Ian Merrett (s), Robert Liddle and Heather Liddle; Julie McInnis, Bev Smith and Trish Watt.
Upcoming events
Sunday December 15 will see our social bowls Ham’s Day. Names in by 12.30pm ready for a 1pm start. Be in it to win one of the many hams up for grabs.
Men’s Club Singles Championship between Ted Leahy and Chris Fleming to be held Wednesday December 18 at 5.30pm.
Coming up on Thursday December 19 is the Far Western Playing Area State Pairs Grand Final to be held at Portland Memorial at 6pm. Come and see Graeme Solly and Kelvin Wiffen versus Chris Fleming and Ian Grayson in action for a good match up of enthralling bowls. Meet on the deck with friends for the play off.
21 Up and 100 Up play offs still continue in both men and women’s competitions.
HEYWOOD and District Secondary College student Cooper Pevitt sends a bowl down
winning team at the Portland Memorial Bowling Club. Picture: SUPPLIED
WINNERS (from left) Di Walsh and Keith Meerbach and runners up Barry Jennings and Maree Matters were the lucky winners at Portland Bowling Club’s sponsored hams day. Picture: SUPPLIED.
Swimming success
RANI KANE
WHILE there were plenty of medals won by local swimmers at the Portland Swimming Club meet on Saturday, it was the valuable experience of competition racing that will pay dividends for the group.
Around 109 competitors registered for the annual event with a strong contingent of Portland swimmers also hitting the pool, some for their first competitive meet.
Included in Portland’s medal tally was the 11-and-under relay team who recorded a third place finish after a solid showing.
Portland Swimming Club coach Kayla Gorry said it was satisfying to see the work from the season paying off in the local pool.
“It was a brilliant event and a lot of entries as well which was fantastic,” she said.
“The kids from our club performed so well and showed a lot of improvement.
“The experience they get from swimming in a meet like this is stuff you can’t necessarily get at training.
“Things we’d been working on like our starts and making sure people get arch when they start their backstroke, all of that was happening on Saturday – so to do that at a big event with lots of people there and you’re under pressure was so good to see.”
The club has been working on some big initiatives, as the 2024 season closes out next week with a fun week of swimming activities ahead of a busy 2025.
Gorry said there has been a lot of work behind the scenes to keep building on the club’s momentum.
“The committee have done such a great job and there are so many volunteers and local businesses who were really supportive of the event,” she said.
“Kristy (Andrews), Rachael (Healy) and Lesa (Munn) along with all of the committee have put so much of their own time into giving these kids opportunities which you see on the weekend at those meets.”
Next week’s swimming action includes tryathle and water polo with the club encouraging new and interested swimmers to get involved.
“At the meet we had encouragement divisions too which were for people who weren’t affiliated with the club but just wanted to have a go and that was really successful,” Gorry said.
“So over the next few weeks hopefully anyone who is interested reaches out if they want to get involved.”
Finalists showdown at Flinders
LEO Healy moves through his freestyle stroke on Saturday.
Picture: NICOLE CLEARY 241207nc96
PREPARING his start is Riley Healy.
Picture: NICOLE CLEARY
COASTERS captain Heidi Jones said she and her team were coming together as a unit at the perfect time of the season.
Picture: LEESA COOK
has been a focal point for the Coasters offense for much of their 2024 season, hitting a season-high of 22 in their round eight clash with Millicent.
Portland take to home court for big dance
From PAGE 32
“It can be tough to ensure the team are gelling with everything in a shorter season, but they’ve all done extremely well in this short period.”
The Coasters team didn’t rely on a single scorer to get the job done – Alana Strom was the team’s highest scorer for the season with 111 points from her nine games.
Possessing scoring weapons across all five positions, the Coasters can turn to any of their players to make an impact on the scoreboard, from long range or from within the key.
Strom’s highest score of 22 points came in the season’s opening match and Millie Jennings also surpassed the 20-point mark with 21 in that same game, while versatile wing Tyleah Barr scored her season high of 22 in the Coasters final regular season match.
Jones said the team’s adaptability and even scoring ability held them in good stead when playing intense finals games.
“A few other teams around the league have to turn to one or two of their players to do the majority of the scoring, but that’s not the way
we play,” she said.
“Our scoring comes from across the entire court and nearly everyone who sees the court is scoring each and every game.
“There aren’t too many teams around who have the same level of experience as some of our team, there are a lot of teams that have a fair few younger players.
“I think that experience will be important for us come Saturday.”
Much of the Coasters success was built on the defensive side of the court, a tenacious team press that forces oppositions into rushed passes and the ability to match the physicality of whichever side they come up against.
Noter said that the side’s focus was ensuring they kept their opponents to a low total, which would be key once again tomorrow.
“We’re a defensive minded team, but we also have a team where everyone can and does contribute to winning,” he said.
“Millicent’s Poppy Venn is someone we need to keep close to, she’s been the league’s top scorer this season.
“We just need to stick to our jobs and ensure we hold our defensive structures for the whole game.”
Jones said their coach had confidence in every Coasters player’s ability to defend, no matter the matchup.
“Rebel is always telling us that we are defensively like-for-like, we always have the adaptability to switch on the fly,” she said.
“We know that teams like Millicent love to run hand-off plays, so we just need to get around those handoffs or just switch it if we can’t get through it.
“I’m expecting Millicent to bring some pretty tough physicality, but I also think that both times that we beat them we didn’t exactly play our best basketball against them.”
Noter said the entire town had got behind the Coasters teams this year and praised the tireless efforts of Portland Basketball Association.
“It’s a very exciting time before this game, and it’s great to have the final back in Portland after some time,” he said.
“Portland Basketball Association have done
really well this year and have been hard at work ahead of the grand final, especially Geordie Cook who has been working out all the details for us.
“We’ve got the home supporters on our side at our home court so it would have been amazing to have both Coasters sides in this weekend.” Tomorrow evening’s game sold out in under 30 minutes, and Jones said she and the Coasters were hoping the home supporters would bring as much energy and noise as they could.
“It’s pretty epic that we get the chance to play this game on our home court, and it was amazing to see that the match sold out 10 minutes after the tickets went up,” she said.
“Portland’s men’s team will be there to support once again, they’ve shown us a lot of support in the last few games that we’ve played.
“We get a lot of support from the people around Portland, and we’re hoping that the crowd is cheering us on nice and loud once again this weekend.”
Junior talents selected for rep cricket
PORTLAND’S junior cricketers have been well represented in the team selected to play for a representative under-15 team combined with Hamilton District at next year’s Country Week in Horsham.
South Portland pair Noah Liersch and Will Oliver were selected to the squad of 14, with Portland Tigers’ Harry Askew and Cohan Fleming and Portland Colts player Jack Bowden also
selected for the games that will take place from January 6 to 10.
A number of the selected players showed their abilities to start the Portland and District Cricket Association’s under-16 season, where this round Portland Tigers got the edge on South Portland and Drumborg-Heywood put themselves in a commanding position over Portland Colts.
Drumborg-Heywood ended their 20 overs at 1/100 thanks to strong batting from Flynn Holmes who scored 29 runs, Jensen Moore’s unbeaten 28 and Daniel Sanderson’s 13 not out.
Jack Bowden took the only wicket for Portland Colts, before his side went out to bat and managed 5/73 thanks to 14 runs from Oscar Smith and 11 runs from Oscar Quarrell. Matthew Sanderson bowled well to finish his three overs with 2/9.
Mason Lindsey bowled strongly for Portland Tigers in their matchup against South Portland, taking three wickets for eight runs off his five overs to help his side keep South Portland to 5/47 after the Tigers scored 60 runs off their 20 overs.
Young Coasters sweat it out in Shepparton
NICK MOSELEY
A GROUP of Portland’s young basketballers battled some of the best junior talent and the hot weather over the weekend when two junior Coasters teams travelled to take part in this year’s Greater Shepparton Basketball Tournament.
With the temperature surpassing 33 degrees on Saturday, the Coasters players gave their all on the courts with the under-16 boys team falling agonisingly short of a grand final berth
while the under-16 girls came up against some tough competition.
The Coasters boys finished their tournament with four wins and one loss, just one game behind Korumburra who were the only team who defeated them.
The round four game against Korumburra was a tense affair, with the eventual grand finalists beating Portland by just two points after regaining the lead late in the match.
The Coasters flexed their might in the other
games by claiming convincing wins over Mildura, Tatura and Swan Hill, the latter of which was by a massive 60-point margin, 79-19.
Patrick Impey scored 17 points and Felix Gill 14 points, but Rafael Stringfellow top scored for the game with 20 points on his way to finishing second place in the pool’s scoring with 78 points, just eleven points behind the leader.
Following a narrow loss to Echuca Pirates in
their opening game, the Coasters girls couldn’t change their fortunes with losses to Wodonga Wolves, Swan Hill Flyers and Shepparton Gators rounding out the tournament.
Ayda Wiseman was the top scorer for the team across the four games, scoring 32 points with a game high of 14 points in the opening game.
The young Coasters will now spend the next month on the sideline, as the teams prepare for a big Bendigo Junior Classic Tournament that will run from January 25 to 27.
NICK MOSELEY
241207lc15
WING Tyleah Barr
Picture: LEESA COOK 241207lc12
South Coast Nationals draw big crowd
THE roar of engines of all kinds filled the air over the previous weekend in Portland, as close to 150 drivers from across Australia made the journey to South Coast Raceway for a massive South Coast Nationals drag racing event.
Dragsters, street cars and a number of highpowered motorcycles tore down the drag strip on the three-day event, as the club held their final event for the season before they prepare for an action-packed start to 2025.
With the weather threatening to put a halt to proceedings late last week, South Coast Raceway president Tim Parker said the club had weathered the proverbial storm before being greeted by top racing conditions.
“We got through a couple of early challenges with the weather, but we were pleasantly surprised that the track dried up fantastically well really quickly.
“Saturday was a bit hot and cold on the weather front, but Sunday was just a great day and our track was in perfection conditions for racing.
“We heard a lot of praise regarding how we run our events, from the canteen and bar to the manicured lawn we offer for the drivers to park up on.
“All of our competitors tell us how welcomed they feel by our facilities and the local community, it’s a really nice thing to hear as a club when they express that somewhere with the facilities and what we offer is a bit of a rarity.”
Parker said the combination of interstate and travelling drag racers, alongside some of the local drivers who took part was the perfect mix of competitors across the numerous classes in action
“A couple of highlight brackets for me were the top sportsman cars and the supercharged outlaws,” he said.
“We had a good number of entrants for both, but there were so many supercharged outlaws in action.
“It was good that we could see a lot of personal bests on the Sunday from them both, they were running some really great times out there.
“Our local Street Fighter class was really well supported and is looking to be pretty popular going forward now.
“It gives local racers an opportunity to get out there and be amongst it all, even if they don’t want to compete against the championship competitors.”
Jaydan Hoggan was the winner of the Street Fighter class, getting the better of Wendy Cleary in the final matchup, Shane Wynd took the honours in Top Sportsman and Stefan Lainas claimed both Super Street and the prize for the weekend’s best package in his VS Commodore.
Shane Baxter got the win in the Supercharged Outlaws, Tony Miskelly took out the Super Sedans and Adrian McGrotty won in the Super Gas class.
Bailey Hawke bettered all competition in the Junior Dragsters, while Modified Eliminator bragging rights went to Kenny Stewart and
Peter Bartlett won in Modified Bikes. With a big turnout benefiting the entire Portland community thanks to the influx of drivers for the final event of the year at South Coast Raceway, preparations are already underway to make the next event another big one.
Parker said he and the team at the raceway were already answering questions about their upcoming Door Car Wars.
“I’ve already had quite a few calls and emails regarding our Door Car Wars event that is going to run across January 10 and 11,” he said.
“The name is pretty self-explanatory, you have to be in a car with doors to take part, so no junior dragsters, no modified drags, it’s just all door cars.
“It’s going to be a very American style of racing, with a lot of good prize money up for grabs to give back to the drivers.”
Junior footballers step into Rebels program
RANI KANE
EIGHT junior footballers have made the first cut for the under-18 Greater Western Victoria Rebels program with the players selected for the preseason squads ahead of game trials.
Airlie Aldridge and Chloe Reynolds have been selected for the uder-18 girls preseason list while Chad Finck, Flynn Leonard, Eamon Drew, Angus Impey, Klay Nicholls and Jake Payne were all named for the under-18 boys. The Rebels program is one of the first football
pathway programs with players attending preseason training before trial games take place. After trial games there will be another cut with players whittled down to continue with the program in January and vie for selection
in the teams that will participate in the Coates Talent League.
Current AFL and AFLW footballers who were part of the Rebels program include Rowan Marshall, Hugh McCluggage, Georgia Clarke and many other household names.
NICK MOSELEY
KENNY Stewart took out the points in the Modified Eliminator class.
Picture: MICHAEL WALKER (1)
LOCAL Gregory Holland kicks up some smoke as he competes in the Super Street class.
Picture: MICHAEL WALKER (3)
Portland racing royalty
NICK MOSELEY
CLOSE to 190 drivers took to the track for this year’s Victorian State Cup, but it was Portland karter Scott King who drew the attention of most as he claimed the TaG 125 Heavy Black Plate on his home course.
With all other classes wrapped up as he competed in the last race of the day on Sunday afternoon, King pipped second-placed Jackson Souslin-Harlow by a margin of 1.255 seconds to be crowned State Cup winner.
This State Cup wasn’t King’s first Black Plate, the 36-year-old having previously claimed honours in both 2012 and 2017, but King said the opportunity to win the plate on his home track was a great thrill.
“It was an unreal feeling,” he said.
“It was a competitive field with some really strong drivers, (Souslin-Harlow) is a frontrunner in the national rounds, he won the Tasmanian State Title the week before this event and won the City of Melbourne titles as well.
“(The win) was made even better to do it in Portland with all the local guys watching on, everyone had finished racing so there was a good number of drivers watching.
“I’ll definitely be going to Cobden for next year’s State Cup, back-to-back wins would be nice.”
King said the win ranked quite high on his list of achievements as part of his more than 20-year karting career.
“I started karting when I was nine,” he said.
“I got into it because my dad used to race speedway cars, and my uncle was involved in karting.
“I do a fair bit of work on my kart - I build my own motors and help out a few others around
the club with their motors as well.
“I won at the City of Melbourne titles a while back, but this ranks right up alongside that in my karting.”
King wasn’t the only Portland District Karting Club member to walk way from the weekend with a Black Plate, Mount Gambier based driver Ben Kilsby taking home the prestigious prize in the TaG Restricted Light class.
Portland District Karting Club’s Paul Parker said both Scott and Ben had handled the varying conditions to perfection over the weekend.
“Scott and Ben both raced fantastically, while it just wasn’t their weekend for a handful of our other members,” he said.
“We had drivers from Queensland, New South
Wales, Tasmania, South Australia and all across Victoria come down for the event.
“There were also a lot of first-time racers down for the weekend, who said how much they loved our facilities and our track and said they would absolutely be returning.
“The conditions weren’t what we expected over the two days, our timed practice on Friday was run on wet tyres but both Saturday’s qualifying and Sunday’s finals were run on slicks.”
Parker said the club would now spend the festive period off the track, having got through another successful season.
“That’s our final date for the season, before we return in this first weekend of February for
Golden Power Series.
“But there will be some club days and junior top gun events between now and then.
“The Christmas period does allow us to have a nice break, give the carts a bit of TLC and prepare for next season.”
Parker expressed his gratitude for the tireless team of volunteers at the club, who he said ensured the club continued to thrive.
“I have to give such a big thank you to all of our volunteers for their hard work throughout the season,” he said.
“Without all of these people we wouldn’t be in the position we are, without people like stewards and the rest of the volunteers, these races wouldn’t be able to go ahead.”
SCOTT King with his trophy and the prestigious Black Plate he earned with a strong showing across the weekend at the Victorian State Cup.
Picture: TIM FRANCIS/tfdesign.com.au (2)
SEBASTIAN (left) and Joel Dias show that karting brings the family together, as they return the kart to the pits.
Picture: KAREN HODGE 241208kh120
KARTER Riley Gee turns a corner at the Yarraman Park track on Sunday. Picture: KAREN HODGE 241208kh160
THERE was some intense racing action at the Portland District Karting Club across the weekend for the State Cup. Pictured is young drivers Scarlett Stevens (left) and Keegan Hunter (right) getting tangled up on one of the corners at the Yarraman Park track. More details on PAGE 31.
Coasters hunt for another championship with home court advantage The big dance
THE Portland Coasters hunt for back-toback Country Basketball League South West women’s conference championships will culminate tomorrow evening, when the team take to their home court against Millicent Magic for the biggest game of their season. The Coasters won seven games in the
regular season, to finish top of the table, an improvement on last season’s second-place finish.
Coasters captain Heidi Jones said that she and the team were eagerly awaiting the chance to defend their CBL title.
“I’m so pumped that grand final week is here, and the entire team is so excited for it as well,” she said.
“We’ve been training hard this past couple
of weeks, and I feel the team is really coming together at the perfect time.
“We’ve gelled so much in the last couple of games and have really been doing well with our team-game.”
Coach Rebel Noter said the shortened season had kept the league competitive throughout the year and pushed the Coasters women to always be at their best.
“It’s been such a close season for all the teams
this year, there are always going to be some teams that you match up well against,” he said. “Colac were the only team that knocked us over through the season, but they narrowly missed the top four and missed out on the finals.
“Even in the other semi-final, there was only a couple of points between Millicent and Mount Gambier for most of that game.
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NICK MOSELEY