The Great Southern Star - April 5, 2011

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TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2011

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Royals love our farmers

FOSTER farmers Russell and Nancy Jones grow wool so good it’s worthy of being worn by the British Royal Family FOSTER Family. Thee Joneses gave wool to be made into a suit for Prince William to wear when he weds Kate Middleton (pictured left) on April 29.

Read the full story on page 7. Royal photo courtesy Mario Testino.

Not enough Bypass petition result disappoints

By Jane Ross FIVE hundred people have signed a petition calling for a heavy vehicle bypass in Leongatha.

That’s about half the number that Deputy Premier local MP, Peter Ryan has said are needed.

The result bitterly disappoints Leongatha Progress Association president, Terry Aeschlimann, who gathered up most copies of the petition on Friday.

“Leongatha is living up to its repu-

tation – please do not disturb me,” he complained.

“I’m frustrated.

“This town has huge potential and it’s not being tapped into.

“The town gets what it deserves; you can’t flog a dead horse.”

He doesn’t know how to shake the apathy, but blames what he calls “leftovers from a prosperous past”.

Nevertheless, the signed sheets will be presented to Mr Ryan sometime soon.

Mr Aeschlimann said he’s not surprised by the lack of response.

“I suppose 500 signatures is something; that’s 10 per cent of the population, but we have a hinterland of 30,000 people.

“I didn’t really know what to

expect.”

He had hoped the petition would be well supported.

Mr Aeschlimann said the progress association had been working for a number of years to try to get heavy traffic out of the main street of Leongatha.

So has the Leongatha Chamber of Commerce, not to mention South Gippsland Shire Council.

Graeme O’Connor and Karen Lawson, who run Great Southern Saddlery Camping and Clothing at number one Bair Street, strongly favour the bypass.

“Some of the trucks go through pretty fast. I saw one the other day that wouldn’t have been able to stop if it had had to,” Ms Lawson said.

“If they are going slowly it’s not an issue. It’s not just trucks, it’s all vehicles. There are a lot of near misses on this intersection; it’s very busy.”

And, she added, two or three times a week, cattle trucks round the intersection and manure falls out the back, leaving a nasty green trail around the corner.

“It stays there until it washes away.”

Continued on page 2.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

French theme seizes stage VARIETY is the spice of life and there was certainly plenty of it as Foster theatre company, FAMDA, staged Cabaretro over the weekend.

The show was developed from an idea suggested by Edwin Coad and developed by John Laurie who worked as both director and musical director of the production.

The entertainment began right from the moment people arrived at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre with pianist, Cheryl Connor, playing in the foyer and piano accordionist, Raymond Dunstan greeting the guests with his piano accordion as they entered the auditorium. Magician Peter Cook introduced himself to audience members.

Billed as a retrospective on the development of cabaret, the show proper began with MC, Georgia Karavis, speaking and singing in French followed by a lively cancan performed by dancers from the Susan Green School of Dance.

The French theme continued with Natalie Burrows singing songs associated with Edith Piaf.

Tim Gorman was the MC for the American cabaret scene which included songs from the speakeasy days of the 1920s and continuing through the 1940s up to the ‘60s.

Peter Bell impressed with his interpretation of three quite different songs, the last being a stunning interpretation of Autumn Leaves beautifully accompanied by Cheryl Connor on piano.

Fine form: the cancan girls in action during FAMDA’s Cabaretro.

Alicia Miller demonstrated her musical skills playing alto saxophone, flute and piccolo in the band and gracing the stage as a vocalist for two of the 1940s numbers.

Sue Dower, John Laurie and Gavin Van Eede provided contrasting songs and Elly Poletti positively dazzled with her interpretation of At Last.

Further variety was added as Peter Cook intrigued the audience with ‘a little night magic’ A four course dinner, prepared by Tania Pell, was elegantly and efficiently served to patrons in between the acts.

The evening finished with Natalie Burrow joining the band as the vocalist for a lively dance band sequence.

There is only one more performance of Cabaretro at 8pm on Friday, April 8 after the official opening of the third Prom Coast Seachange Festival.

On this occasion the dinner will be replaced with a gourmet supper.

Bookings are essential; no door sales. Contact Main Street Revelations, 31 Main Street, Foster on 0400 867 872.

Petition result disappoints Continued from page 1.

Ms Lawson said trying to pull out of the car park behind the store is a nightmare and endeavouring to walk over the road to the post office is hard.

Mr O’Connor said when he came to Leongatha 20 years ago and first attended a chamber of commerce meeting, the heavy vehicle bypass was a matter for discussion.

“I’m very much for it. As a retailer, we need to look at the big picture. We’d have safer streets and could do more with parking,” he said.

When The Star did a truck count at the Bair/McCartin Street roundabout in the middle of February over a 20 minute period, 32 trucks went through the CBD. These in-

cluded cattle trucks, tankers, a rubbish truck and a huge log truck that had some difficulty negotiating the roundabout.

Leongatha Chamber of Commerce president, Darryl McGannon said it was disappointing to have such a small number of signatures on the petition, but added, “It is a start.”

He is keen to see Bair Street redeveloped as per a shire plan, but that can’t happen until a bypass route is determined.

The chamber discussed the bypass issue with Peter Ryan before the November state election.

South Gippsland Council has a preferred route for the bypass, which would have to be developed by VicRoads.

Disillusioned: Leongatha Progress Association president, Terry Aeschlimann with the 500 signatures on the Leongatha heavy vehicle bypass petition. Deputy Premier, Peter Ryan has suggested 1000 are needed.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 3

Recovery moves quickly

Parks Victoria, Victoria Police and VicRoads have combined to allow people access to their stranded veOWNERS of vehicles hicles. There’s a weight limit of under stranded at Wilsons Prom10 tonne and width of under 2.4m beontory will be able to rescue cause of the condition of the road and bridge. them on Wednesday and VicRoads regional director, PatriThursday of this week. cia Liew said only one person per veThey will be able to do so unhicle would be allowed access to Tidal der police escort via a temporary River. one lane access.

Insurers will be permitted in on A free bus will leave MelThursday to assess and collect flood bourne at 6am on both days to damaged vehicles, and those over 10 take owners to a staging post in the tonne will be retrieved on Tuesday, Yanakie Hall.

April 19.

The details were made clear The staging post in the Yanakie Hall on Friday, a day after Premier, Ted will provide morning tea and lunch.

Baillieu announced $8.8 million to Parks Victoria chief ranger, Craig repair infrastructure damaged in In the field: Parks Victoria field services officers Jack Schultz Stubbings said queries about vehicle the previous week’s deluge.

Mr Baillieu said more than (centre) and Danny Hudson (right) speak with Victorian Premier retrieval should be directed to 13 1963. $2.8m will go towards immedi- Ted Baillieu.

The Department of Sustainability ate repairs so the park can reopen While he was at the Prom, Mr Baillieu met

by Easter. The other $6m is for road and Darby with a number of people involved in the Prom and Environment took advantage of the closure River Bridge works. of the Prom to burn invading coastal tea tree berescue and recovery effort.

He said Parks Victoria was working hard They were South Gippsland Shire mayor Cr tween Little Drift Track and Springs Track over to ensure the Prom was accessible over Easter Warren Raabe, captain of the Yanakie Fire Bri- the weekend. “which also means our regional tourism industry gade John McAinch, bus operator and Prom AdDSE fire district manager for DSE, Geoff is open for business”. visory Council member Alex Moon, chair of Wil- Pike said the burn would provide better condi“I encourage everyone to get behind tour- sons Prom Advisory Committee Sue MacGregor, tions for the growth of coastal grassy woodlands. ism operators this Easter and provide a much CEO of Destination Gippsland Terry Robin- The burn was conducted by DSE staff, allowing needed economic boost to our flood affected son and Catherine McGlead of Prom Country Parks Victoria personnel to concentrate on the businesses.”

Tourism. flood recovery.

By Jane Ross

Please come, tourists told

By Simone Short THE MESSAGE is clear – South Gippsland is still open for business.

The region is being promoted far and wide in an attempt to attract tourists in the lead up to the Easter holidays, despite the majority of Wilsons Promontory National Park remaining closed.

Parks Victoria, in conjunction with Tourism Victoria, VicRoads and South Gippsland Shire Council, held a tourism industry forum in Foster last Tuesday to provide an update on the Prom’s recovery.

More than 60 affected business people were also informed of plans to further promote alternative tourist attractions in the region.

Destination Gippsland chief executive officer Terry Robinson said the organisation would potentially dedicate $40,000 of its own funds to South Gippsland tourism.

“We’re putting dollars and resources into promoting the upcoming events in South Gippsland,” he said.

“Through advertising, we’re getting the message out in metro Melbourne

media over the new few weeks.”

Alternative accommodation is being sought for holidays-makers who had already booked accommodation in the Park over Easter.

“Destination Gippsland is working with Parks Victoria to relocate bookings from Tidal River into other accommodation in the area,” Mr Robinson said.

South Gippsland Shire Council tourism co-ordinator Christian Stefani said it was important to get an optimistic message out into the wider community.

“We need to get the industry and community consistent in talking positively about the Prom area and the fact there are many more things to see and do,” he said.

“Although cancellations have continued, people are actually starting to book for Easter.

“People are still thinking positively about coming down and this is an opportunity to say to people ‘Here are all the wonderful things to see and do’.”

Prom Coast Local Tourism Association member and owner of Windy Ridge Winery, Georgia Wilson, said the majority of business owners were

happy with council’s efforts, and had received great support from Mr Stefani as well as Parks Victoria and Prom Coast Regional Tourism Association.

She said everybody had learned from the impact on tourism following the Black Saturday bushfires.

“There haven’t been as many frustrations as when the bushfires came through. We’ve established a working relationship with Parks Victoria,” she said.

“Whenever there’s information that needs to be disseminated, they get onto it and it spreads right through the industry very quickly.”

Some business people believed the ‘Wilsons Promontory closed’ signs would deter tourists from exploring the region beyond their locations on the outskirts of Meeniyan and before Yanakie.

Parks Victoria regional manager Chris Rose informed forum attendees Tidal River would not be reopened for the beginning of the school holidays.

Investigations however are being held as to whether or not the camping ground would be available for limited camping in time for the Easter long weekend.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Dancing through the ages

By Simone Short GREAT dancers aren’t great because of their technique; they are great because of their passion.

And a passion for dance is something Glenn and Shirleyanne Wright of Leongatha certainly have.

However, their attributes do not end there. They also have a great deal of time and patience, having trained debutante couples for 25 years, totalling almost 2026 dancers - and that’s a lot of left feet.

Shirleyanne spent many years on the Debutante Ball committee and helping out at practices before finally taking over with husband Glenn, at the insistence of former trainer, Jack Roughead.

Although the couple has never been formally trained in dancing, they learnt through many nights attending balls whilst growing up.

“We just loved to dance; that’s all we did when we were teenagers going out,” Shirleyanne said.

“We used to dance three or four times a week.”

Shirleyanne fondly remembered her parents attending football club balls and with four girls in the family, her father taking turns to dance with them all.

“You get an appreciation for the music,” Shirleyanne said.

“We say to the kids today, ‘we know it’s not your type of music’, but I think the majority of them appreciate learning to dance and the time and effort we put it.

“It is a big commitment.”

This year, after the balls on April 8 and 9, after endless hours of training and 80 debutante balls, Shirleyanne and Glenn will finally be hanging up their dancing shoes.

“It’s time,” Shirleyanne said when asked why now.

“Glenn still plays cricket, while dancing was my sport, but he’s getting near retiring age too.

“I think back to when we were 16, anyone in their 30s, let alone 40s, were over the hill and I think ‘What must they think we are?’”

Shirleyanne admits a lot has changed over the quarter of a decade they have been volunteering their time.

“I’ve always said two words: respect and discipline. Now I add a third word: attitude.”

“We are strict, but we’ve had a reputation to live up to from when Jack used to train. The Leongatha

Netball Deb Balls have been known for their standard, so we’ve just tried to uphold that.”

And what else has changed from 1987 to today?

“The dress,” Shirleyanne exclaimed.

“They were more covered up.

Twenty-five years ago it was puffed sleeves and bows!”

And there are some things Shirleyanne and Glenn will never understand about the younger generation.

“They don’t dance together male and female. It’s boys dance with the boys, and girls dance with the girls.

In our time, you couldn’t wait to dance with the boys,” Shirleyanne said and laughed.

“They just really stand and bop, for want of a better word.”

But no matter the era, she said the highlight of training the debs remains the same.

“I love to see the kids dance,” Shirleyanne said.

“And the transformation that takes place on the night.”

Many of the young people taking part enjoy it for the same reasons.

“Sometimes you see the boys in particular, are a bit blasé but as soon as you put a suit on them there’s a whole new demeanor - and they think they look pretty good,” Shirleyanne said laughing.

“Not everyone can be Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, but the important thing is that they try their best,” Shirleyanne said.

“Seeing them dance beautifully on the night - that’s the real reward.”

A history of dedication: this photo featured on the front page of The Star in 2004, stating Glenn and Shirleyanne deserved a medal after 18 years training debs. Seven years later, they deserve a trophy!

Save the last dance for me: Shirleyanne and Glenn Wright are hanging up their dancing shoes after 25 years of training debutantes.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 5

Sea will surge in

By Jane Ross SEA level rises will come in a big whoosh caused by storms.

They will do that rather than increase gradually to the expected 0.8 metre by 2070.

The result will be major damage to anything in their path, including infrastructure such as roads.

Which raises the question: should the infrastructure be repaired?

That’s one of the important messages from a National Seachange Taskforce Conference held at Torquay last week.

Areas such as Anderson Inlet at Inverloch, Silverleaves at Cowes and Pioneer Bay and Grantville are particularly vulnerable.

Representatives of both South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires attended the conference, together with 200 delegates from many other Australian coastal municipalities.

They all face similar issues such as huge growth, climate change impacts, ageing populations and the failure of state and federal governments to recognise their funding needs.

The taskforce will call on the federal government to declare a Year of the Coast and press for its 10 point plan to be adopted (see box).

Bass Coast Council chief executive officer Allan Bawden and environment manager, Paul Smith presented papers.

Mr Bawden’s focused on ways the council manages peak populations while Mr Smith explained that local knowledge, including the use of old photographs, was vital in understanding coastal changes.

Bass Coast has undertaken detailed coastal mapping and is in the process of adding a requirement for a coastal vulnerability assessment to be written in to its planning scheme.

How to do that is problematic.

“Do we factor it in now or phase it in?” Mr Bawden said.

“Do we follow South Gippsland (Council) that has issued some permits under a Section 173 agreement that acknowledges the land could be vulnerable and council is not responsible.

“The other approach is, if there is risk, you shouldn’t encourage development there. That’s easy if you haven’t zoned the land, but it’s not easy if you have.”

And, if you do allow development in risk areas, where does that leave council from a legal and insurance point of view?

“There has been talk of putting houses on stumps that would be relocatable, but you still have the issue of people’s attachment to an area.

“It is a real concern.”

Mr Bawden said apart from the

planning and engineering issues associated with climate change, there are social ones too.

“When a whole town gets wiped out, do you rebuild?

“The encouraging thing is, there is a whole lot more research in the climate change field and the CSIRO is setting up a website to put all the research in the one place.”

A lot of the work is about developing tools for councils to assess locations for vulnerability.

Mr Bawden said all coastal municipalities face the same issues of massive population growth during holiday times and the paper he delivered detailed ways Bass Coast deals with these.

He said 3.5 million people visit the shire each year.

“Infrastructure built for 30,000 residents is required to meet the needs of over 70,000 in peak periods.”

Mr Bawden said the most challenging part of holiday peaks is managing amenity complaints in residential areas.

Coastal action plan needed THE National Seachange Taskforce is calling on the Federal Government to develop a national policy for coastal Australia, including: • acting now on climate change; • introducing a new funding formula for coastal councils disadvantaged under current arrangements; • providing money for coastal councils for natural resource management; • developing a national growth man-

agement policy to better co-ordinate planning and infrastructure in regional and rural areas; • assisting coastal councils to address the social and economic needs of ageing populations; • introducing a consistent national response to the legal and insurance risks associated with coastal planning and the impact of climate change; and • addressing the shortage of affordable housing in coastal communities.

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR�, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Korumburra debs: back row, from left: Darcy Garton, Kyle Arestia, Angus Harrison, Alex Fowles, Jake Cochrane, Ryan Johnson, Glen Halliday, Jake Kilpatrick, Darcy James, Paul Green, Ben Hayes and Michael Wight. Second back row: Andrew Ryan, Luke Kemp, Lochie Evans, Michael VanWeel, Blade Elms, Daniel O’Flaherty, Beau Stewart, Daniel Longden, Justin Smith, Ben Harris, Clarrie O’Brien, Lucas Baido, Danny Connelly. Third row: Harley Elms, Zack Townley, Emma Fraser, Renae Burr, Rhiannon Hughes, Rachel Adkins, Sophie Adkins, Kimberley Hillberg, Jessica Robertson, Loni Jeffs, Emma Ryan, Neesh Felton, Darren McIntyre and Elijah Wardle. Second front: Ashleigh Parr, Kimberley McKinnon, Kristi Brinksma, Emma Salmon, Lauren Trani, Alanah Williams, Kiara Arestia, Caitlyn Leitch, Ellen Sorrell, Katelyn O’Brien, Liza Cochrane, Laura Kerr and Brittany Staples. Front: Tegan Brammar, Darcy Gorman, Emma Tully, Russell and Eileen Harrison (trainers), Lion Colin Higman, District Governor Lion Shirley Higman, Korumburra Lions president Athol Worthy and wife Lion Jean Worthy, Jessica Staben, Sheree Carey and Stacey Prokopiev. Front seated: owergirl Claire Trewin, pageboy Finn Cashman and owergirl Jaime Little. Photo courtesy Foons Photography.

Korumburra debutantes DEBUTANTES danced the night away during the Korumburra Lions Club Debutante Ball on Friday night, April 1.

A record 29 couples were pre-

sented to Lions Club district governor Shirley Higman and husband Lion Colin Higman, president of the Korumburra Lions Club, Athol Worthy and wife Lion Jean Worthy, at the annual ball held in the Korumburra Recre-

ation Centre.

Trained by Russell and Eileen Harrison of Leongatha, the debutantes learned four dances for the ball including Swing Waltz, Carousel, Standthorpe, Schottishe and the Pride

of Erin.

Leongatha organist Rhonda Richards provided the music.

Following the presentation the debutantes, parents, family and friends danced the night away to dis-

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Chairman of the organising committee Lion John Little and wife Lion Norrie Little co-ordinated the ball and agreed it was a beautiful night, enjoyed by all.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 7

More police needed

By Simone Short SOUTH Gippsland needs more police officers in the long term.

The region will be allocated just three new police officers as part of the State Government’s move to eradicate violence from our streets.

Bass Coast Acting Inspector Dave Watson said while three new officers would be an asset, the region could do with more.

“Having more officers frees us up to be more pro-active and doing things like bicycle

patrols and foot patrols, and generally what the community expects from us,” he said.

“We’re certainly looking at those figures progressing over the years from what we’ve been allocated at the moment. Having three additional members will be a positive help and we certainly would expect in the future we would get some more.”

Acting Inspector Watson said management would decide where the three new officers will be stationed.

“We need to identify where the needs are greatest. That decision will be made by the divisional management team,” he said.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police, Peter Ryan, said the Coalition Government’s pledge to crack down on violent crime and anti-social behaviour would see more frontline police protecting local communities.

“The allocation of more police across 46 police service areas by June 30 is the first stage of the State Government’s commitment to deliver 1700 more police over four years,” Mr Ryan said, with 600 officers to be allocated by the first deadline.

Mr Ryan said Victoria Police command had allocated the 600 new frontline positions based on priority needs.

Milk prices on the rise

By Jacob de Kunder RISING milk prices continue to please farmers, despite the ongoing controversy over supermarkets slashing milk prices to vie for customers.

Milk money: Max Jelbart is one of the farmers who will benefit from the milk price rise.

Murray Goulburn last week announced a step-up of 25 cents a kilogram for protein and 10 cents for butterfat across the 2010-11 season.

Central councillor for the United Dairy Farmers of Victoria, Max Jelbart, said any increase in prices is a good thing.

“This will let a lot of farmers finally catch up with the monthly bills. Many farmers are still strug-

gling and are in debt from the drought,” he said.

“This is a great present season for farming compared to last winter and spring, which presented lame cows and mastitis.”

Mr Jelbart said the lowering of the milk prices by supermarkets Coles and Woolworths was “just unsustainable”.

“Who wants to go back to the wage they had in 1992? No one, and that’s what they’re asking dairy farmers to do,” he said.

Supermarkets are soon to reduce the prices of other staple foods, such as eggs and chicken.

“It’s just unfair on the farmers,” Mr Jelbart said.

MG managing director Stephen

O’Rourke said world markets had softened slightly recently, however he expected prices to continue to hold reasonably firm towards year’s end.

“This step-up takes our prices well into the forecast final price range of $5.30 - $5.50kg milk solids, predicted at the start of the season,” he said.

“The current available price is now approximately $5.42 per kilogram milk solids on a weighted average basis, “We will continue to monitor market returns during the final quarter of the season with a view to paying a final step-up after year’s end.”

Prince to wear Foster wool

By Brad Lester A FOSTER sheep farming family can proudly boast they grow wool fit for a king.

Well, a future king at least.

Nancy Jones and her son Russell are among farmers from across Australia to have donated wool for a suit Prince William will wear on his wedding day: April 29.

The Joneses selected nothing but their finest Merino wool to give to His Royal Highness, upholding Australia’s international reputation as producers of superb wool.

They joined the cam-

paign by peak wool body, Australian Wool Innovation, to collect wool samples from across the country to be turned into a unique fine suiting fabric and sent to the famous bespoke tailors of Savile Row, London.

The suit will be presented to the prince with a card bearing the names and addresses of all donor farmers, including the Joneses.

Ms Jones heard about the plan on the radio and selected wool from the best Merino ewe on her property.

“It makes you feel excited to contribute to Prince William’s wedding suit, especially as he will probably be our future king,” she said.

After farming for more than 50 years, the prince is the most famous person Ms Jones has supplied wool to and she is a fan of the British Royal Family. A photo of the late Princess Diana hangs on her wall.

“I just think the Royal Family are nice but I suppose they are no different to the rest of us and get up to mischief too, but I look up to them,” Ms Jones said.

Despite a wet winter hindering production of fine wool last season, the Joneses were still able to find wool of 20 microns for the prince.

While the prince may not wear the suit during the ceremony, he is likely to don the gift at some stage during his wedding day.

Ms Jones kept some of the wool herself and plans to mount it in a frame with a wedding photo from a magazine.

She will watch the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on television, and no doubt will pay particular attention to his attire.

AWI chief executive officer Stuart McCullough said the gift would be a fitting gesture of thanks after Prince William’s father, the Prince of Wales, initiated the five year Campaign for Wool last year.

“The idea of dressing Prince William for his wedding to Kate Middleton was in fact raised by woolgrowers at the AWI annual general meeting

Go Kangaroos: Fish Creek fans Liam Edgelow, Gareth Park and Shannon Danckert showed their style at the Fish Creek versus Tarwin Lower football match at Tarwin on Saturday. For more coverage of the opening round of the Alberton football and netball season, see Star Sport.

last year,” he said.

“It would be an appropriate gift after the brilliant campaign the Prince of Wales began which has helped to re-connect the world with our natural and biodegradable fibre.”

Any leftover fabric may be auctioned online, with proceeds going to a charity to be nominated by the young couple.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Ryan pledges Prom help DEPUTY Premier and Member for Gippsland South, Peter Ryan has pledged to work closely with Parks Victoria and VicRoads to try to reopen Wilsons Promontory by Easter.

Mr Ryan met with Parks Victoria staff at Yanakie and Tidal River three days after a huge deluge created havoc, destroying roads, walking tracks and the Darby River Bridge.

“There are a number of significant challenges facing Wilsons Promontory, but we will do everything we can to have the park open for Easter,” Mr Ryan said.

The priority is to repair the bridge and land slip on Tidal River Road.

Mr Ryan praised the work of Parks Victoria staff and the various contributing agencies in managing the crisis.

Oh dear: Deputy Premier and Minister for Emergency Services, Peter Ryan inspects a damaged car at Wilsons Prom.

Briefing: Deputy Premier and Minister for Emergency Services Peter Ryan (left) is briefed on the Wilsons Prom disaster by Parks Victoria staff chief ranger, Craig Stubbings (centre), Darren Hill and Jack Schultz.

It was wet all over MEENIYAN recorded 11 days of rain in March - but there was plenty of it.

Lindsay Fromhold, who does the monthly tallies, said 170.4mm fell.

“No wonder we’re wet! That’s more rain than we usually get in the first three months of the year.”

He had to go back to the records of 1989 to find a wetter March. That’s when Meeniyan recorded 182mm.

But it wasn’t as wet as 1970, when the March tally was a whopping 300mm.

And Fish Creek was even more sodden.

Neville Buckland said 204.5mm fell, offering the “wettest March we’ve ever had”.

Fish Creek’s progressive tally for

the year is 425mm.

Ruby weather recorder, Margery Robson said 89.5mm fell over 12 days taking the 2011 total to 307mm over 35 days. Last March, 122mm fell.

Leongatha’s March total was 101.4mm. The bulk of that came down during the 24 hours from 9am, March 22 to 9am, March 23.

Recorder, Kay Puru said the yearto-date total is 263.3mm.

“In March 2010, we actually had a little more rain, 105.1mm but the year-to-date total was only 187.3mm.

“In 2009, we had 69.3mm with the year-to-date total only 93.2mm.

“And in 2008, all we had for March was 36.5mm with the yearly

total 108mm.”

The rain, which included 13mm over the past week at Foster’s Deep Creek reservoir and 8mm at Korumburra’s Coalition Creek, has kept South Gippsland’s water storages at bumper levels.

Leongatha’s Ruby Creek is at 88 per cent of capacity, Coalition Creek is at 96 per cent and Wonthaggi’s Lance Creek, which also supplies Inverloch and Cape Paterson, stands at 87 per cent. Deep Creek, Fish Creek’s Battery Creek and Poowong/ Loch/Nyora’s Little Bass are all at capacity.

The Tarwin, Agnes and Tarra rivers are flowing well too.

Nevertheless, permanent water saving measures remain.

’Quakes follow ship EARTHQUAKES seemed to follow Jack and Joy Edney during a recent cruise on the Queen Mary 2.

The Leongatha couple travelled for three weeks on the world’s biggest ship, which caters for 3000 guests and has around 2000 staff.

The Edneys were looking forward to catching up with a friend for lunch in Christchurch New Zealand,

but that was when the earthquake struck, so the ship didn’t dock there.

Cancelling the lunch, they found that their friend was alright.

According to a blog, the Queen Mary 2 donated 4900 bottles of water to the earthquake relief effort.

The ship travelled on and there was a tremor on Guam, 1500 miles south of Japan, which was the next port of call.

Mr Edney said he and Mrs Edney were booked on a cruise day tour in Japan, but that too was cancelled because of the devastating earthquake there.

“About 34 people on the boat had taken an overnight trip and were caught (by the ’quake) in Tokyo, but they got back alright,” Mr Edney said.

“We were very lucky.”

POLICE BRIEFS

Be road wise FOSTER Police stress the importance of road safety and driver awareness after three accidents over the past week.

The first was on Tuesday, March 29, when a 46-year-old Foster man was involved in a single motorbike accident.

He broke a leg and sustained other injuries, and was airlifted to the Alfred Hospital. Police are investigating the cause of the accident.

A Fish Creek man was crushed between a ute and a tractor on Cornwalls Road, Fish Creek, on Thursday at around 2pm. He has a suspected pelvic fracture and was flown to the Alfred Hospital.

On Sunday, a female probationary driver lost control of her car and ran into an embankment on the South Gippsland Highway near Yarram. Police believe the accident occurred due to inexperience and wet weather.

The driver walked away uninjured and the car was towed away.

Sunglass theft A 36-YEAR-OLD Koonwarra man will face court at a later date following a theft at a BP service station in Leongatha on Saturday night.

The man was caught on surveillance cameras stealing sunglasses from the store. Police soon identified and charged him.

Drunken penalty A LEONGATHA South man has been issued with two penalty notices for riotous behaviour and drunkenness.

The 36-year-old was charged by police in Leongatha late Saturday night.

Speeders caught

MANY drivers have been caught speeding and issued tickets along the Bass Highway by Leongatha police over the past week.

One of these drivers was a female in her early 30s travelling at an excessive speed while on an expired licence. The Inverloch woman received $538 worth of fines.

Offensive graffiti THERE was substantial graffiti and vandalism in Dumbalk on Saturday night.

Street signs, walls and the town hall were covered in profanities and offensive symbols.

Meeniyan and Leongatha police are investigating the incident.

Police urge anyone with information to come forward.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 9

Kinder nearly ready to grow

By Brad Lester THE Inverloch and District Preschool will double in size by the end of this month, catering for massive demand.

An extra room is being built at a cost of $450,000 to satisfy the rapidly growing number of children in the town.

The room will also meet Federal Government rules requiring children to attend 15 hours of preschool a week by 2013. Currently, children spend 10.75 hours at kindergarten.

The new room could be operational as early as the start of second term, said Bass Coast Shire Council’s community strengthening manager, Antoinette Mitchell.

“It will be terrific. It will be a modern and bigger playspace and it will be a great learning facility,” she said.

Enrolments are so high, the preschool has a waiting list for 2012 and is now full, with 135 students, said preschool committee building project manager, Jess Beachley.

“We now have the highest numbers

Take off: Inverloch and District Preschool students Crystal, Jaime, Amelia, James and Shaye cannot wait for the new room to be finished. (of children) that we’ve ever had because of the growth of Inverloch and because of the number of families that have moved to the area for desal and other work,” she said.

“A lot of the families that have moved here for the desal have said they

love it here and would like to stay, and so with the growth of the town and with 125 students there anyway, we would not have been able to operate out of the single room.”

Ms Beachley said the number of enrolments has been increasing over the

Landfill concerns allayed SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council was shocked when advised by its waste contractor in early March there was less than six weeks’ space left for rubbish at the Koonwarra landfill.

As this information was inconsistent with past surveys and audits, council requested a further survey.

An independent audit has shown there is in fact significant airspace still available.

“In view of the potential threat to commercial waste customers, we immediately wrote to them advising that services may be disrupted from April 15,” council’s director of community services, Jan Martin, said.

“Our investigations have since shown that we do not have a critical situation at present and we updated those customers by email on March 24.

“At this stage we can confirm that

commercial waste customers can continue to use Koonwarra landfill until mid June and we are working with our waste contractor and the EPA to prevent any disruption to service.

“We will have a clearer picture of availability of the landfill for commercial waste contractors by the end of April.”

But council did not panic.

“The community asks that we be open and transparent in our activities and our customers deserved to know that there was a potential threat to their current modus operandi,” Mrs Martin said.

“Our objective was to give them as much notice as possible to make alternate arrangements and so that they could plan to recoup any additional costs they might incur.”

A third cell has been designed, plans are ready to be submitted to the EPA for approval and excavation work has already started.

However, with EPA approval yet to be given and inclement weather

ahead, there is still some concern the third cell will not be ready by September.

Council is seeking approval from the EPA for a height extension of the existing cells, which if approved, will mean that waste can continue to be accepted from commercial customers without disruption.

“However, until we receive an affirmative answer from the EPA, we are still advising our commercial customers to explore contingency arrangements for waste disposal after June,” Mrs Martin said.

Meanwhile, council’s priority obligation is to its domestic waste management and there will be no impact on kerbside garbage collection services or to transfer station operations.

“We are also applying pressure on our contractor to get the third cell constructed as soon as possible, but with an expected wet winter it is unlikely that construction will be completed until the end of the year,” Mrs Martin said.

Council shapes future for east SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is now preparing the future for towns in the east of the municipality.

Following the development of a Community Plan for Toora and District, council is now preparing an Eastern District Urban Design Framework (UDF) for the townships of Toora, Welshpool, Port Welshpool and Port Franklin, and the rural areas of Agnes, Hedley and Mount Best.

“The UDF will guide the development of the townships to 2025 and beyond, and builds on the vision and direction of the Toora and District Community Plan,” Paul Stampton, council’s acting planning manager, said. “It will help identify a town boundary (where appropriate), land use zones and overlays, and urban design initiatives for each of the townships.”

The frameworks are being prepared for council by consultancy Planisphere

with funding assistance from the Department of Planning and Community Development.

Mr Stampton said that a draft report had been prepared to initiate community engagement and is now available to the public at the locations outlined below: • council’s web page www.southgippsland.vic. gov.au under ‘Planning & Building, ‘Rezoning and Growth’ ‘Township Strategy Plans’ and ‘Eastern Districts’; • Council Main Office, Smith Street, Leongatha; • Toora Post Office, Stanley Street, Toora; • Welshpool Post Office, Main Street, Welshpool; • Foster Post Office, Main Street, Foster; and • Port Welshpool General Store, Lewis Street, Port Welshpool.

“The information and proposals presented in the draft report are all subject to change depending on the feedback received from the communities and other

stakeholders,” Mr Stampton said.

“It is important to note that implementation of the Urban Design Frameworks into the Planning Scheme may result in the rezoning of land and this would change the development potential of land in the affected areas.”

A community meeting will be held to present the draft report on Friday, April 8 at the Toora Hall, Gray Street Toora from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

It is recommended you confirm meeting details on council’s web page (www. southgippsland.vic.gov.au under ‘Planning and Building, ‘Rezoning and Growth’ ‘Township Strategy Plans’ and ‘Eastern Districts’) in the week prior to the meeting to ensure no change of details. Bookings are not necessary.

The draft report will be exhibited until Friday, April 29.

Your comments on the draft report are welcomed

up to this date. Submissions to the draft report should be: mailed to the Planning Department, South Gippsland Shire Council, Private Bag 4 Leongatha 3953, emailed to council@southgippsland. vic.gov.au or submitted via an online form on council’s web page www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au under ‘Planning and Building, ‘Rezoning and Growth’ ‘Township Strategy Plans’ and ‘Eastern Districts’.

“The UDF will provide Council and the eastern district communities with further certainty about the future of their towns,” Mr Stampton said.

Mossvale opens MOSSVALE Park at Berrys Creek has reopened after the Tarwin River flooded recently.

South Gippsland Shire Council completed repairs last week and declared the park open on Friday.

last few years.

Classes now start at 8.30am and continue through the day until 4.45pm just to meet demand, but the new room will enable a more convenient timetable.

“The new Federal Government’s

rules won’t come into effect until 2013 but when we have a bigger room, we will be able to accommodate that,” she said.

Three, three-year-old groups and three, four-year-old groups are now offered, with 20 students in each threeyear-old session and 25 in each fouryear-old class.

There are two full-time teachers, five part-time assistants and one parttime administration officer.

The new room will enable two groups to be run simultaneously, and includes a kitchen and store-room.

“Three-year-old kinder is great for children that have not gone out of the home and it’s great for interaction with other children,” Ms Beachley said.

“It’s important to give every child the kinder opportunity. Early years is so important to setting kids up for the rest of their lives because if they are comfortable in their relationships, their time at school will be so much better.”

The State Government contributed $200,000 to the project, Bass Coast Shire Council $175,000 and the preschool committee $75,000.

Floods disrupt roadworks FLOODING has forced South Gippsland Shire Council to take the unprecedented step of temporarily suspending its Road Management Plan, which guides the maintenance of council’s roads.

Council has chosen to prioritise the repair of roads severely damaged by recent floods to ensure community safety, acting chief executive officer, June Ernst said.

“We believe our communities will understand and support this priority and we ask for their patience as the repair works forge ahead,” she said.

Ms Ernst stressed however that if residents think their local roads are sufficiently degraded to be a threat to motorists’ safety, they should report the road condition to council for priority assessment on 5662 9111.

“We do ask that everyone takes particular care on the roads in these

diminished conditions,” she said.

The plan was introduced two years ago to better maximise council resources by addressing maintenance matters in a routine circuit of the four sectors of the shire.

Each week the planned road works are advertised in all four local papers in the Council Noticeboard advertisement so that residents can see when the maintenance is about to take place in their area.

The plan has been highly effective in minimising time lost in the past, moving heavy plant and equipment from one end of the shire to another to respond to crisis calls.

Further information on Council’s Road Management Plan can be found on www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au > Council Services> Roads, Streets & Infrastructure> 2009 Road Management Plan

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

THE STAR is being read around the world. The Star website www.thestar.com.au has been visited by viewers from all over the world.

In the past few weeks we received page views from USA, UK, Malaysia, Fiji, Canada, The Philippines, New Zealand, India, Sweden, France, Vietnam, China and Latvia.

THE MADS Panto in the park game in March went off a hit. Thanks and congratulations go to Paul and Pat Hendry for the storyline, costumes, props and

for ensuring that all 26 kids got an active part. Thanks also to a few MADS members who helped out.

16. Come for a great night out and enjoy the music provided by Rhonda Richards.

in or email your photos through for great prizes.

Email the pictures to joy@ thestar.com.au.

A GREAT weekend of celebration was had by former local couple Anthony Hanily and Michelle Sellings, who were married in Meeniyan on Saturday. Family and friends travelled from Queensland, New South Wales and all over Victoria to share their special day.

FORMER Korumburra resident Lynette Wrench has completed two 100km walks over the past two-and-half years.

The first was the Kokoda Trail and the other was the Oxfam walk through the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley. Congratulations Lynette.

Teagan Murley celebrated her 21st birthday at the Glen Alvie Cricket Club on Saturday night.

Everyone embraced the fancy dress theme and a lot of colourful costumes were on display as Lionel Loves Vinyl entertained for the evening.

IT’S on again. The Mardan family dance is being held on Saturday, April

IF you think you have the cutest flower girl or page boy, The Star would like to see them. Either bring

A FUN treasure hunt and car rally will be held in Meeniyan on Sunday, April 17 at 2pm. The rally will start at the Meeniyan

Youth Hall carpark and end at the Meeniyan Hotel for meals and prizes.

The cost is $10 per car.

For more information or to confirm your booking for this event, email patsyfagan@dcsi.net.au or phone 5681 2229.

THE mEYE World Photographic Competition is calling for entrants. This competition showcases some beautiful photography while promoting the Macular Degeneration Foundation (MDF). Entries are open to all and close on April 27.

To enter go to www.

meyephotocomp.com.au and enter your photograph online.

WATCH out for the ongoing road works around the area on the South Gippsland Highway and be sure to obey the speed signs. The speeds are lowered for safety reasons so be sure to be patient and keep the roads safe while the upgrades and maintenance occurs.

THE annual general meeting of the Inverloch Uniting Church was held on Sunday, with Graeme Reid taking over the role

as chairman from longtime leader, Colin Manley. Eulalie Brewster and Liz Catt will continue as secretary and treasurer respectively.

A WORKSHOP aimed at helping students with Aspergers was held in Leongatha last week.

The event featured the MyStudyBar software tool that helps overcome problems that students experience with studying, reading and writing. The event was held at GippsTAFE.

Local stop on global tour AN INTERNATIONAL journey passed through South Gippsland last

Thursday.

As part of the ceremony to mark the 125th birthday of the invention of the motor car, Mercedes Benz

has launched an around the world drive.

Setting out from Stuttgart, Germany on January 30, three

Spectacular coast: the Mercedes-Benz trip heads along the Bunurong coastal drive, out of Inverloch.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class vehicles featuring local zero-emission fuel cell drives are being driven on a 125-day circumnavigation of the world.

Travelling across four continents and through 14 countries, the three B-Class F-CELL vehicles will head around the globe once, finishing their ‘world tour’ back in Stuttgart where they started.

The travelling party stopped at the Franklin River Reserve at Toora on Thursday, before heading to Koonwarra and on to Inverloch, later arriving in Melbourne.

On January 29, 1886, Carl Benz filed the patent for his three-wheeled ‘vehicle with gas engine operation’ under number 37435, thus setting the first milestone for a completely new form of mobility.

TAFE honours visionaries RETIRING TAFE directors were honoured by GippsTAFE at a retirement dinner recently.

John Swarbrick and Richard Gubbins were acknowledged by board chair David Gittins for their tremendous contribution to education in Gippsland, with more than 30 years of service.

“Mr Gubbins and Mr Swarbrick have been passionate advocates for GippsTAFE, and they

leave the board with much integrity and success,” Mr Gittins said.

“Both have been pivotal contributors to the board and have been exceedingly diligent in meeting the governance and reporting requirements of our agreement with the State Government.”

Mr Swarbrick leaves the GippsTAFE Board after 16 years. He was elected as board president twice and provided significant leadership as a member of the audit and

Thanks for service: John Swarbrick, GippsTAFE board president, David Gittins and Richard Gubbins. finance committees.

Mr Gubbins also served for 16 years and sat on the finance, executive and audit committees. As

chairperson of the board of studies, Mr Gubbins also advised on academic standards, processes and services.

C’mon Sharks: backing Tarwin were Laura Barker, Trevor Seebeck, John Box and Barry Day.

Band awaits milestone THE South Gippsland Shire Brass Band is preparing for its 120th anniversary next year.

Reflecting upon that achievement at the band’s AGM last Wednesday, reelected president Darryl Hunt said the band continues to be a treasure for the community.

The band gave more than 20 performances in the past year alone.

“The fact it is the oldest community organisation in Leongatha shows the importance of music in people’s lives,” he said.

The band has played at such events as Mossvale Music for the People, Meeniyan Tavern Night, Anzac Day, Australia Day and the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.

Musical director Greg Wright took over the position in 2010 and noted the growth in membership and influx of learners since.

He said the musicians had excelled and yet were capable of even greater feats.

South Gippsland Shire Council

mayor Cr Warren Raabe, officiating at the meeting, said he was impressed by the many members and quality of music played.

He presented Nancy Jones with the George Rayson Award for most improved player, in recognition of her dedication to learning and advancement.

Brad Lester received the Band Person of the Year Award for his service as treasurer.

New office-bearers are: president, Darryl Hunt; vice president, Doug Appleton; secretary, Roslyn Pearce; assistant secretary, Charles Pearce; treasurer, Brad Lester; musical director and librarian, Greg Wright; deputy musical director and property officer, Bruce Jarrett; drum major, Peter Mayo; and committee members, Neville Drummond, Nigel Hutchinson-Brooks and Jan Appleton.

The band is sponsored by the Leongatha RSL and sub-branch president David Edwards was a guest at the meeting.

Jetty lobbyists named SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council will nominate its preferred community representatives on a new group set up by the State Government to push for the redevelopment of the Long Jetty at Port Welshpool.

Council officers will present the names of the nominees at the next meeting of the jetty project control group on April 19.

At the request of Regional Development Victoria, council has nominated two council representatives to join the group: Cr Jeanette Harding will be the main representative, with Cr Mohya Davies named the alternate. The group will also comprise staff from Gippsland Ports and the Department of Transport.

The deadline for applications from the community closed last Thursday.

Musical gongs: Leongatha RSL sub-branch president David Edwards, band president Darryl Hunt, George Rayson Award winner Nancy Jones, South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Warren Raabe, and Band Person of the Year winner, Brad Lester.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 11

Kids’ hub must start soon

By Jacob de Kunder KORUMBURRA is in great need of a children’s hub and without a complex like those in Leongatha and Foster, Korumburra’s children are being disadvantaged.

There is a proposal for such a building that would host maternal childcare, Birralee Childcare Centre, the kindergarten, after school care, a community meeting room and primary school connections all in one area.

Without such a hub, a child’s needs cannot be addressed as they grow, said Korumburra Children’s Hub committee member, Michelle Axford.

A child’s problem may take six months to identify and by the time a program is in place to suit their needs, that child will have already moved to that next level of education.

A plan is then not put into place

until Prep or Grade 1, when the child’s needs should have been addressed earlier.

One way of measuring early childhood success is by looking at how Preps are performing across key domains of childhood development.

Existing figures show that Korumburra is currently falling behind compared to the rest of South Gippsland.

Nearly 30 per cent of Korumburra Preps are vulnerable in at least one domain important to development compared to South Gippsland’s average of 19.5 per cent.

And 12.5 per cent are vulnerable in two or more of these domains, in comparison to the regional average of 8.2 per cent.

These statistics from the Centre for Community Child Health make it clear that Korumburra is in need of an integrated children’s hub.

“The hub concept is well supported. We have letters of support from Korumburra Primary School management, Korumburra Primary

School council, Birralee committee of management and Korumburra Kindergarten committee of management,” Ms Axford said.

“We’re just waiting for the South Gippsland Shire Council and the Victorian Government to make a move.”

The proposed hub would have to suit several criteria to reach maximum effectiveness for children and families.

The site would need to be in pram walking distance of the town centre and primary school to be practical for parents with more than one young child.

Also by integrating the primary school and kindergarten with after school care, the complex will make life for working parents easier and better for their children.

Korumburra’s kindergarten is already bursting at the seams with enrolments, so it is vital for action to happen sooner rather than later so that children can start reaping the benefits.

Checking it out: members of Friends of the Earth and other interested parties had a chance to study HVP Plantations’ logging practices near the Agnes River.

Water’s okay: SGW

By Matt Dunn SOUTH Gippsland Water managing director Steve Evans said no more chemicals than permissible would be used to treat water sourced from the Agnes River.

Environmental group Friends of the Earth believed logging along the river’s fringe will adversely affect drinking water in Toora, Welshpool and Port Welshpool.

The group said SGW may be forced to treat turbidity in the water by using increased concentrations of coagulant chemicals, such as aluminium sulphate (alum).

“There is a causal link between aluminium concentration and Alzenhemiers Disease,” landuse researcher Anthony Amis said.

“Aluminium has also been linked to Parkinsons Disease and can cause problems for people undertaking kidney dialysis.

“One hopes that dosing

drinking water with high levels of alum does not occur, but it can’t be ruled out, particularly if heavy rain occurs during and after logging.”

But Mr Evans said SGW was bound by strict standards and could only use a prescribed measure of the chemical.

“The flows we get from the Agnes are very turbid, just in normal times. We have in place our treatment plant. The treatment plant deals with clarification and filtration,” he said.

“Yes, we do use alum, however that’s to put in the raw water to drop out solids and turbidity. At the end of the day, though, we’re under very strict guidelines.

“We use what we need, but the national and state drinking guidelines state an amount we can’t go over in relation to alum.

There’s just no concern it’s going to blow out because we’ve got turbidity coming down.”

Mr Evans said that if the river’s turbidity levels were “massively high”

there was “the ability to turn that water off”.

“We could use the water that is stored in the service basin and we could continue that for one or two weeks,” he said.

“An event might happen where the water becomes massively turbid, but we wouldn’t just keep hitting it with the chemicals.”

HVP Plantations’ external relations manager Steve Wentworth said the area that would be logged is part of a plantation and “it was not the first time that we’ve undergone our plantation activities in that catchment area”.

“Poor forest practices

or poor roading practices can contribute to sediment in the stream. There is some basis to that, scientifically,” he said.

He said the company had been audited by two separate authorities to prove it’s bone fide as a good corporate citizen that adheres to stringent environmental practices.

“We’re proud of our culture and it qualifies for certification with two independent bodies. It’s a sustainable practice that we’re engaged in. It’s a renewable resource,” he said.

“If this is done to a high standard then the impacts are minimised.”

Asking for an upgrade: Danni Amor, Regan Marriott, Zara Borg and Zac Grabham with their carer Victoria Vanderland at the current Birralee Childcare Centre in Korumburra.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Footy’s back

THE Gippsland League is looking forward to another exciting year of major League football and netball, which will commence with round one on the weekend of April 9-10.

Bairnsdale rejoin major league action this year after a 12 year absence, where they have dominated the East Gippsland FNL. This now means that all the major towns in Gippsland are competing in the one competition.

The return of Bairnsdale has eliminated the bye, so five top class contests will be on offer each week across the region in the Gippsland League.

In round one, on Saturday April 9, Traralgon host Leongatha, Warragul play Bairnsdale, and Wonthaggi take on Morwell.

On Sunday, Drouin host Moe, and the traditional ‘battle of the birds’ will take place at Maffra when they take on arch rivals, Sale. Maffra have set the pace in the football competition in recent years and all clubs will be keen to challenge them in 2011.

All clubs have been busy recruiting and many exciting new players will join the league in 2011.

There are new coaches at Traralgon (Josh Jennings), Morwell (Damien Kerr), Warragul (George Morgan), Wonthaggi (Leigh McDonald), and Brent

E D I T O R I A L Change for the better CHANGE is always daunting. Will things be worse? Will they be better? Who knows, so let’s just play it safe and leave things be, is often the typical response.

But more often than not, change happens for a good reason and that’s the attitude Leongatha needs to embrace when considering a heavy vehicle bypass through town.

It’s disappointing that only 500 people signed a petition calling for the bypass. In explaining possibly why this is so, Leongatha Progress Association president Terry Aeschlimann gives a view commonly held of Leongatha; that the town does not want change.

While 500 is indeed a big number, Deputy Premier Peter Ryan said 1000 signatures would be needed to give the petition clout.

Let’s just hope this result does not impact upon the likelihood of the bypass eventuating. It should not, as Mr Ryan, South Gippsland Shire Council and VicRoads are well aware the bypass has been mooted for so long - too long in fact.

Plans need to be prepared and approved, and work undertaken, as the longer this project lingers, the further behind Leongatha will fall. Trucks and the heavy vehicles must be moved out of Bair Street - one of Leongatha’s two commercial strips - to make this part of town more attractive and enticing for shoppers.

The most likely route - should the bypass eventuate - would be off the highway, down Hughes Street and up Long Street, rejoining the highway at Ogilvy Street. There are issues associated with this, particularly more frequent, bigger traffic through Hughes and Long streets impacting upon businesses and residencies there.

But these issues could be mitigated with the enforcement of speed limits and adequate intersection works at Hughes, Long and Roughead streets, and also Long and Ogilvy streets.

Leongatha as it is has a lot to offer but has potential for even more.

Letters guidelines ALL letters should be kept to 400 words or less.

The Star reserves the right to edit all letters for length and style.

Writer’s details, including full name, address and phone number (not for publication), must be included.

Cowell returns from WA to take the reins at Bairnsdale.

It is also pleasing to see that 25 of the 40 players on the 2011 list at Gippsland Power come from the 10 clubs in the Gippsland League (28 out of 38 in 2010), so the development of the exciting young talent and offering a pathway in the region, is clearly a focus of the clubs in the Gippsland League.

Netball also promises to be very competitive. Last year’s powerhouses Drouin, Leongatha, and Maffra are again expected to be strong, while Traralgon and Morwell are anticipating a stronger showing. Bairnsdale are likely to be very competitive.

The league has also initiated a change in the governance of the league this year with a board of management overseeing the operations of both football and netball. The board has attracted members with vast experience in a range of business and sporting settings, and their work and skills will assist in the growth of the league and the clubs moving forward.

A highlight of the year will be the inter-league clash on May 28 against the Central Murray League which is based in the Swan Hill region.

This game will be played at Morwell, so local supporters will be able to see a top class interleague game after a break of two years which have seen the GL play at Pakenham and Bendigo.

This season will also see the opening of the major re-develop-

ment at Moe, new changerooms at Drouin, and new lights suitable for night games at Sale.

Our best wishes also to all of the players and clubs in the district leagues, and we wish them well for the season.

Brian McKenzie, Chairman, Gippsland League.

More to it SPOT on Don Bruce and Councillor Harding (“Fight may not be over”, The Star, March 29, page 7)!

Don’s reported comment, “There are some very naive people around here” possibly relates to the following points: 1. If refused a Bair Street site would Optus give up on its commercial opportunities in the Leongatha area? Pigs might fly!; 2. If Telstra can obtain great coverage via towers on farmzone hilltops, why can’t Optus?

3. What’s the connection between Optus’s proposal and this Singapore Government-owned corporation’s plans to piggy-back on the NBN and cherry- pick clientele?

4.There must be other technically-feasible sites around Leongatha that don’t impinge on the major vistas in the town.

Why should council bend over backwards to save Optus a few dollars?

Cr Harding’s reference to precedent is very pertinent.

How would Crs Deane and Davies have reacted if the Optus proposal was to locate in Foster’s

Pioneer Street or at the top of Korumburra’s Commercial Street?

Okay, Optus or a similar proponent might prefer a Kaffir Hill site in Foster or near the old exchange tower on Bridge Street, Korumburra, but once the precedent is established that it’s okay to put a visually obtrusive installation in the centre of the shire’s major town, against the wishes of community representatives, what’s to stop a similar occurrence in any other town or village in the shire?

And if visual impact is not relevant, why have councils over the years spent rates and copious amounts of staff input on streetscape plans, town plans, etc.

It beggars belief that a decision of this importance went through on three votes.

Let’s hope Cr Raabe is successful in finding another possible site that is more acceptable to the community.

If a VCAT appeal is the only option left, then hopefully plenty of Leongatha-ites will rally round.

Wilma Western, Leongatha.

Memorable concert

A LARGE and appreciative audience attended the rendition of the famous oratorio Messiah (Handel) by the Camberwell Chorale and the Camerata Orchestra, Sunday, March 27.

The performance of this great work was directed by the well

known and experienced conductor, Douglas Heywood.

Mr Heywood conducted the oratorio with great aplomb and the choir and orchestra responded very well to his expert direction.

The group of visiting soloists also made good contributions and in particular, soprano Lauren Oldham showed great promise.

A highlight was the playing of the trumpet part by Ian Cooper in the great aria The Trumpet Shall Sound.

It was interesting to note that very few cuts were made and it is certainly a great prelude to Easter Observance.

Ian Lee, Leongatha.

Mourning cat

TO the person who in the early hours of Monday, March 28 ran over and killed our little Button.

You took away not just a cat but a part of our family.

How could you not stop to see if she was okay, still alive or even to move her body off the road.

You didn’t even have the decency to knock on our door to tell us what you had done.

We had to find her lifeless body in the morning outside our house.

Why didn’t you stop to say sorry? We are so empty without her, the heartbreak is painful.

Now this family is not whole.

The Bentley family.

Mardan.

VOXPOP! VOX What would you like to see at the western entrance to Korumburra?

Some kind of commercial enterprise like a supermarket or shopping complex would be good. This will create competitive pricing in the town.

Eric Millar Korumburra

I’d like a shopping complex because it would minimise travel and keep money in the town.

Cobey Motton Korumburra

I’d want a shopping complex because that was rumoured a few years ago and it seemed to get approval from the town then.

Mikaelle Knox Korumburra

Something like a bowling alley, cinema or something else fun so me and mates could hang out there.

Jack Harris Korumburra

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 13

Not happy

THE issue surrounding South Gippsland Shire Councillor Robert Newton and the minutes of the council meeting of October 4, 2006 is in my opinion a serious concern under the Local Government Act 1989, under sections 77B, 78 and 79 including Section 93.

It cannot be overlooked by claiming it was a simple mistake by the shire council and councillors and consequences must follow.

At the recent shire council briefing session on March 16, I raised investigative questions into the alleged breach of the act and sections relating to conflict of interest on the Bald Hills Wind Farm controversy.

After 11 years in council, Cr Newton should have known the act thoroughly.

All nine councillors David Lewis, Robert Newton, Jennie Deane, Kieran Kennedy, Casbolt, Ryan, Bligh, Paterson and former mayor Cr Nigel Hutchinson-Brookes totally confirmed the council minutes of October 4, 2006 at the following council meeting on October 18, 2006 without corrections to the minutes under Section 93 of the act and signed off by the mayor.

These actions confirmed the accuracy of the council minutes on October 4, 2006.

I have no intentions to apologise to Cr Newton due to his lack of responsibilities, practices and principles of the act.

Let him prove to us that he

has displayed a duty of care towards his constituents.

The confirmation of the council minutes of October 4, 2006 speaks for itself as an official record and secondly, former mayor Cr Nigel Hutchinson-Brookes voted on October 18 confirming the minutes to be true and accurate.

He confirms that Cr Newton had not voted on the Bald Hills Wind Farm issue. As well it had taken five years for him to recognise the mistake. I cannot accept his statement. Had it been Cr David Lewis instead of Cr Newton the outcome would have been different.

A correspondence from former mayor Cr Deane to Paul Norton dated May 18, 2007, states: “You note in your letter, at each council meeting councillors vote to confirm the minutes of the preceding council meeting and it is their responsibility to ensure that they are a true and accurate record of the meeting concerns.”

The official correspondence has now been lodged with the Minister for Local Government, Jeanette Powell MLA to make the final decision.

Paul Richardson, South Gippsland Community Watchdog.

Endeavour Hills.

No carbon tax IT APPEARS that a federal carbon tax could soon be introduced. This is a tax on carbon dioxide produced by many businesses. The aim of the tax is to stop global climate change.

The UN’s IPCC commit-

tee claims that increasing levels of carbon dioxide are causing the earth to warm dangerously quickly, leading to higher temperatures, less rain and more droughts.

However, before rushing to support a tax on carbon dioxide, we should consider the following: 1. Human beings and animals naturally produce carbon dioxide (it is what we breathe out); 2. Carbon dioxide is food for plants and trees. Trees cannot flourish without carbon dioxide; 3. A carbon tax will close down industries in Australia (who will be subject to the tax) as they will be unable to compete with imports from other countries (whose industries will not have to pay a carbon tax or follow Australia’s environmental laws). The carbon tax will therefore send jobs overseas and increase overall global pollution; 4. Spain’s experience shows that every new job created by ‘green’ schemes is likely to destroy 2.2 existing jobs in the real economy; 5. Australia’s carbon dioxide emissions are less than two per cent of all global emissions. No other country is planning to introduce a carbon tax; 6.The carbon tax will not (initially at least) be imposed on farming, but the VFF has warned that it will drive up farmer’s costs; 7. The carbon tax is likely to similarly drive up the price of everything we buy; 8. Key scientists on the UN’s

IPCC committee have admitted that their climate change predictions relied on inaccurate data.

There is no scientifically demonstrated link between carbon dioxide emissions and global temperatures; 9. While global temperatures have risen in the 40 years before 1990, they have not continued to rise since then, despite higher levels of carbon dioxide being released; 10. Globally, major weather events in recent times are not of increased droughts but of excessive rain and flooding.

If you disagree with taxing carbon dioxide, please write to your federal parliamentarians or the media before it is too late.

Suryan Chandrasegaran, Nerrena.

Species at risk A FEW days ago I received a letter from Mark Duchump, president of Save the Eagles International, which gave his current assessment of the impact of existing and proposed wind farms on birds, particularly eagles.

It’s widely known that wind turbines kill birds and bats but as investigations continue the scale of this problem is becoming apparent.

Save the Eagles suggests that over the long term the 3.5 million turbines and their supporting infrastructure to be installed worldwide will cause the extinction of many bird species.

This dire forecast is supported by The Spanish

Ornithological Society whose estimate for the Spanish Region of Castilla La Mancha, based on current mortality figures, is “1.3 million birds a year, many in danger of extinction like the Imperial Eagle, the Bonelli’s Eagle or the Lesser Kestrel”.

In Australia we know that Wedge-tailed Eagles and other raptors are regularly killed by wind turbines.

Save the Eagles makes special mention of the endangered Tasmanian Wedgetail and the risk from wind farms being constructed in its habitat.

They have also been constructed, and more proposed, along the flight path of the critically endangered Orangebellied Parrot which presents a major threat to its survival.

It’s hard to see what’s “environmentally friendly” about a wind farm.

If the whirling wind turbine blades weren’t enough of a threat to wildlife, in America, Vermont’s scenic Lowell Mountains are now subject to a wind farm proposal.

To facilitate this hundreds of acres of forest abundant with wildlife are to be cleared to make way for wind turbines and transmission lines.

There are similar proposals to clear forests for wind farms in the UK. The clearing of forests for wind farms is in addition to that cleared to produce biofuels.

Of course food producing land is also being converted to provide ‘green fuels’.

Wind turbines and other

‘green’ energy technologies use rare-earth minerals in magnets and other electrical components.

Dysprosium, neodymium and praseodymium are used in wind turbines and hybrid cars and others are used in energyefficient light bulbs as well as mercury vapour. You won’t find health warnings on the light bulb packets but they do appear on the product websites.

USA was once a leader in the mining and production of rare-earth minerals but because the production methods were so toxic, tough environmental controls virtually closed the industry.

China, less constrained by environmental protection, has become the world leader but has left the Mongolian city of Baotou with a large toxic radioactive lake as its legacy to ‘clean technologies’.

These environmentally destructive technologies flaunt the protection of natural and human environments.

Within our modern society, we have all the tools available to appreciate our surrounds and other life forms on this planet as they are linked not only to our culture but to our very existence.

Save the Eagles International have alerted us to the threat wind farms pose to eagles and other birds. Let’s see what we can do to look after our environment and protect wildlife from illconceived ‘green’ projects.

Andrew Chapman, Inverloch

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

TPIs come to town MEMBERS of the Totally and Permanently Incapacitated Exservicemen and Women of Victoria marched through Leongatha last Friday.

Eight people came through town with show bags in hand, as well as giveaways promoting their organisation.

The TPI association has been around for 80 years, and concentrates on returned service men and women who are permanently affected by war both physically and, most importantly, mentally.

Mental illness is not as visible as the loss of a limb or disfigurement so the TPIs tried to make it visual.

As part of their state-wide campaign to raise awareness, the group walked up and down Bair and McCartin streets in Leongatha.

As they walked the streets, shoppers were treated with show bags, flyers, pens and wristbands as well as the chance to chat with the TPIs. The walk finished with a lunch at the Leongatha RSL.

Your views online

RESIDENTS who attended community consultation meetings held by South Gippsland Shire Council from November through to January this year can now see their views online.

Council’s responses to suggestions raised are on council’s website: www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au There are 107 comments collected verbally and via feedback forms at the five meetings held at Mirboo North, Korumburra, Leongatha, Foster and Tarwin Lower.

All items received that were of an infrastructure nature were collated and will be submitted to the capital works budget in line with the timetable set for 2011.

Some suggestions received relate to other government agencies and departments, and have been forwarded to them for attention.

“The list of requests and council’s responses can be viewed with a simple click on the home page of our web site,” acting CEO June Ernst said.

“Applicable items will be considered when formulating the 2011-2014 Council Plan to ensure it is reflective of the strategic direction required by the community.”

A further opportunity will be provided for the community to comment on the contents of the draft Council Plan, in accordance with the Section 223 LGA 1989 requirements.

“We warmly thank the community for providing us with this input, and for doing so at an earlier stage so that we could properly consider it,” Ms Ernst said.

“It’s a great example of community partnership.”

Hand outs: Christine Brannan receives a show bag from TPI Max Higgins.

Councillors back night out

A MOVIE night and pool party for the Mirboo North community was well supported

by South Gippsland Shire councillors.

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Cr David Lewis gave $850 to the event from his discretionary fund and Cr Mimmie Jackson gave $150.

The Venus Artists Contemporary Showcase received $350 from Cr Kieran Kennedy and Cr Jennie Deane gave $1000 to the Nyora Men’s Shed towards establishment costs, including the renovation of a former netball building.

The Fish Creek Development Group received a total of $500 from councillors Jackson, Lewis and Jim Fawcett to help establish a community garden.

Cr Lewis also gave $250 to the Catholic Women’s League Victoria to help with the costs of six members undertaking a food hygiene course at TAFE. As of March 1, Cr Mohya Davies has $1312 to spend, Cr Jeanette Harding $2600, Cr Kennedy $266, Cr Deane $1290, Cr Newton $650, Cr Raabe $2500, Cr Fawcett $2830, Cr Jackson $2400, Cr Lewis $1400 and the mayoral fund, $700.

TV sparks fire FIRE burnt a unit in Inverloch last Wednesday after a television exploded as a result of a power surge.

A neighbour rescued an elderly woman from the unit.

The CFA arrived promptly and helped restrict damage to a minimum.

Inverloch CFA captain Allan Williamson said the unit was not badly damaged.

“There was just lots of smoke damage and the windows had been blown out,” he said.

“But because we used dry chemical extinguishers there was no water damage to the house.”

Mr Williamson said the fire was a reminder to people to ensure surge protectors are installed in appliances and switchboards because surges can cause fires.

Smoke alarms are also an important safety measure in preventing deaths from house fires, Mr Williamson said.

As the clocks were turned back for daylight savings on the weekend, people are asked to remember to change their smoke alarm batteries to ensure their families’ safety.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 15

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Bass Coast TAFE booms THE Bass Coast campus of Chisholm TAFE is booming.

Enrolments increased 20 per cent in 2010, necessitating two new classrooms.

Chisholm director and CEO, Maria Peters made these comments at a recent graduation ceremony held at the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club.

Ms Peters said there were higher numbers in new courses such as Asset Management and Retail Training, as well as the growing Children’s Services and Aged Care training.

A number of new staff were appointed to train more than 170 who enrolled in the State Government’s Victoria Works for Job Seekers with Employment Challenges.

Ms Peters said 140 finished the course and 105 have gained short and longer term employment.

Sixty students graduated at the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club ceremony in fields as varied as aged care, home and community care, financial services, building and construction and training and assessment.

A trophy, certificate and cheque were presented to Samantha Morcom who was named 2010 Southern and Coastal TAFE Alliance Outstanding Student of the Year for Chisholm Bass Coast and William Schmeiszl, inaugural winner of the Workplace Training Student of the Year Award.

Chisholm Bass Coast regional manager, Helen Lechte congratulated the graduates.

“Chisholm would not be the success it is without the professional contribution of skilled teaching and administrative staff.”

Driving tips shared A SUCCESSFUL Community Keys Please program ran in Leongatha last Wednesday at Education Centre Gippsland (ECG).

The evening was organised by South Gippsland Bass Coast Local Learning and Employment Network (SGBCLLEN) through partnerships with VicRoads, South Gippsland Shire Council, ECG and Wonthaggi police.

Forty-five people attended; parents to learn practical ideas and young people to find out how to use the learning to drive

period to accumulate 120 hours of practice to become safer drivers.

The evening covered such topics as: • why young drivers are at risk and why driving experience is so important; • the importance of learning to drive in stages - from simple tasks on quiet roads to more difficult drives in all sorts of road, weather and traffic conditions; • how to plan your learner’s driving practice to develop driving skills; • tips on how to work together and manage any stress that could get in the way; • the importance of de-

veloping a positive partnership between learners and their parents; and • how to get the best out of the learner period.

The LLEN in partnership with VicRoads will make this an annual event in South Gippsland, with another Keys Please program being planned for March 2012.

If you would like more information regarding the Keys Please program please contact Karen Kerr at the LLEN on 5662 5500. The evening was sponsored by Leongatha Autobarn and Repco.

Top students: Chisholm Institute director and CEO, Maria Peters (left) and Chisholm Bass Coast regional manager, Helen Lechte (right) congratulate award winners Samantha Morcom and William Schmeiszl.

Samantha was named 2010 Southern and Coastal TAFE Alliance Outstanding Student of the Year for Chisholm Bass Coast and William was the inaugural winner of the Workplace Training Student of the Year.

We’re growing fast BASS Coast Shire continues to grow apace.

New figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show the municipality’s population grew by 4.6 per cent last financial year.

That makes it the fourth fastest growing municipality in Victoria and the most rapid regional one in the state.

That’s no great surprise to Bass Coast Council chief executive officer, Allan Bawden who said growth had been consistent over the past

10 years.

It’s putting pressure on house prices too.

Mr Bawden is the inaugural CEO of Bass Coast Shire, formed in 1994 when the Kennett Government merged municipalities across Victoria, so he is in a position to know what the growth patterns have been.

The desalination plant at Wonthaggi employs up to 3000 and the council is not the only authority interested in the population wash up when construction finishes. The

plant is due to be completed at the end of this year.

Meanwhile, Latrobe City Council is planning a huge residential land release. A total of 230 hectares has been rezoned and the council wants 574 hectares more - that’s up to 12,090 lots. The aim is to ease pressure on Melbourne.

Public transport advocate, Max Semken of Leongatha, believes such growth in the Latrobe Valley will be felt in South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 17

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Rabbit breeds novelty roof

By Jane Ross IT began with a big white rabbit.

Now, the bunny has hundreds, if not thousands of companions.

They are crowded together in colourful profusion bringing delight and laughter to young and old alike.

Phil Dicker loves to take people to see the display, just for the pleasure of watching their mouths gape with disbelief.

Thanks to his sense of humour, the absurd and his trusty staple gun, Phil has attached an extraordinary number of soft toys to the ceiling of the Korumburra Tourist Park barbecue area.

Park managers, Grahame and Josi Brown weren’t too keen on the idea at first, but Phil won them over. He believes what he refers to as “the roof” is unique in Australia and he’s drawing on his photographic skills to replicate the entire area on a post card.

When he did just a section as post cards, they were snapped up.

The roof is fast becoming a tourist attraction and Phil believes the

new post cards will help promote Korumburra.

It’s a town he loves.

He and his wife Irene used to live there years ago and, after selling their home in Langwarrin with a view to joining the grey nomad movement, spent time in the tourist park. Set among majestic gum trees beside a babbling brook, the park appealed to the couple and they built a comfortable cabin there.

They’ve set themselves up as relief motel and caravan park managers and travel all over the place in that capacity.

Phil put the white rabbit on the barbecue ceiling during Easter 2009.

He said there were a lot of caravans in the park and an Easter egg hunt was organised for the children.

“To add to the atmosphere, I stapled the big white ‘Easter’ rabbit to the roof.

“For a few months, that was all that happened.”

Then, one day, he found three small toys left behind by a child. He thought the rabbit needed some company and that would make a good

theme for the park.

“To my knowledge, soft toys stuck to a roof had not been done anywhere.”

The rabbit and a few other toys remained on their own until Irene started buying soft toys from opportunity shops. That prompted a game of “spot the new addition”. Visitors added to the fun with donations.

By the time 30 to 40 toys were stapled to the ceiling, Phil thought it still looked bare. He developed some themes. There’s a Disney section, some twins, gorillas in the mist, an international spot and different areas for public holidays such as Christmas, Anzac Day, Easter, Queen’s birthday and the Melbourne Cup. Phil walks around with a prodder in his hand, poking it in to various toys which then respond with their respective sounds – a frog croaks, birds screech in a cacophony of hilarity.

And, he confided, when all the children have gone to bed, a foulmouthed parrot takes his cue to start up!

His idea: Phil Dicker with a small section of the barbecue area at the Korumburra Tourist Park. The ceiling is chock-a-block with soft toys.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 19

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 21

Mayor’s message Cr Warren Raabe

Events this Saturday Visitors still welcome COME along, have fun and learn lots.

Here’s a taste of what’s on: 9:10am: Learn about smart shopping. Find out how to get more bang from your buck while helping the planet at the same time. Seats are limited – check times on arrival.

10am: Solar boat workshop. Build and then race sun powered boats.

11am: What’s in water workshop. What lives in the water? Come meet some bugs and wrigglies under the microscope.

11:30am: ‘Cravat Preston’ and his worm ‘Wriggly’ make their signature dish, ‘Composto’.

12.30pm: Solar boat competition. Race your creation.

1pm: Smart shopping. All day. Home and lifestyle Expo, foyer auditorium. Make an Ojo de Dios, God’s Eye from Central American Indians; face painting; kite making; make a no dig garden; native shrub planting; Trail Warriors’ Adventure, with different exhibitors helping you to win prizes. The Connies tram conductors may have swap cards of our local flora and fauna.There will be a petting zoo, massages and health assessments by Gippsland Southern Health professionals who will also answer your questions on keeping healthy.

Guest speakers 9:10am: Andrew McEwen, self sufficiency.

9:30am: Rhys Freeman and Graeme MacLennan, electric powered farm vehicles (converted from petrol).

10:15am: Geoff Boadle, “I can’t afford a cheap solar system.”

11:00am: Ron Smith, soil health.

11:45am: Meredith Freeman, grow lightly.

12:30pm: Juliet Klauer, bottling, preserving and self sufficient living.

1:15pm: keeping chickens – keep them happy and healthy.

Being sustainable: Amber and Jade Vogt with their solar ovens at last year’s festival.

TWO weeks after our major flood event, each one of us can take this opportunity to support our South Gippsland communities by reaffirming to friends and family in the city and other regions that there is still much to see and do in South Gippsland while the park is being repaired.

It’s perfect weather for walking or riding our trails; we have the Sustainability Festival and Giant Easter Egg Hunt at Coal Creek, the Sea Change Festival in Corner Inlet, Stony Creek Races and Tour de Tarwin events coming up. Agnes Falls near Toora, the highest drop waterfall in Victoria, is cascading spectacularly right now at unprecedented levels.

Add our boutique wineries, colourful cafes plus quaint villages and markets and visitors will be begging for more time to explore (further information can be obtained by phoning 1800 630704 or visiting www.visitpromcountry. com.au) Our tourism team will be working hard to spread the word and your support can really help make a difference.

Recovery mode is in full swing.

Assessments in terms of cost and community impact are being carried out and the Premier pledged $3 million

Strzelecki heritage apples: Mark Brammar and daughter Tegan with a huge variety of fruit.

community for their patience as this work will cause some delays to regular maintenance work.

Our Tourism Industry Forum in Foster held last Tuesday in conjunction with Parks Victoria was well received by the 60 plus operators who attended.

Representatives of Tourism Victoria and VicRoads also outlined their responses to the incident.

Realistic updates on the damage within the park, estimates for reopening and an immediate activation of a recovery committee of stakeholders were outlined.

VicRoads will hire council’s earthmoving equipment that is stranded in the park for road repairs and preparatory work has been undertaken for the Darby River bridge repair.

It is hoped that some camping spots and walking trails north of Darby River will be open by Easter, and if the bridge and roads are trafficable by then, some camping spaces at Tidal River may be available.

However most walking trails and all cabins have been compromised and Parks Victoria has an enormous job on its hands to restore safe passage and housing for visitors.

Cr Warren Raabe

South Gippsland Shire Council briefs THE bid for a hard rubbish collection service in the municipality has been delayed, after the successful tenderer withdrew.

The tender will now have to be readvertised. The service was due to start in the new financial year.

Berry nice: Kyle Heusmann, Nathan Felsbourg and Iain Cassona at the 2010 festival.

to Parks Victoria and $6 million to Vic Roads to restore access to the Prom when he visited the region last Thursday.

He also assured me that he would facilitate funding support for the shire through our member Peter Ryan.

Council officers are focusing their attention on the Fish Creek area where community infrastructure and private property have been damaged.

Among the worst hit is the Fish Creek Bowling Club where recently installed artificial turf greens have been ruined.

The Department of Human Services is providing the necessary support to affected individuals and council has extended its waste services to collect flood damaged goods from their footpaths.

I drove around Fish Creek just days after the flood and areas that had been severely inundated were now looking spic and span once again – a great tribute to both the individuals, groups and businesses who worked tirelessly alongside council staff to restore order and safety. Thank you - we are greatly appreciative.

Council’s Road Management Plan has been temporarily suspended to allow priority works evolving from the floods to be carried out. We ask the

MORE visitors will come to South Gippsland. That is the prediction of Cr Kieran Kennedy.

He believes civil unrest in the Middle East will result in higher fuel prices and discourage travellers from heading too far from Melbourne. South Gippsland’s proximity to the city will make it an attractive destination, he said.

“I think we need to prepare ourselves for an influx of tourists given petrol prices will increase in the future,” he said.

TONY Eden of Mirboo North presented a petition calling on council to build a footpath along Grand Ridge Road West, linking residents in the Ridgway Park Estate with schools and the main street.

Mr Eden said residents take their lives into their hands when they walk into town, as they are forced to walk on the road, which carries traffic from South Gippsland to the Latrobe Valley.

Some parents are so concerned for their children’s safety, they drive them to school even though they can see the school from their homes.

“We believe we have made a financial contribution to the substantial section of footpath we are asking for through the purchase of our land,”

Mr Eden said.

Under the contract residents entered into when buying their land, they believed council was going to enforce the construction of a footpath.

“Yet five years after council issued the permit and three years after council has signed off on the development of stage one, the residents are still awaiting a footpath,” Mr Eden said. Council will consider the petition.

COUNCIL watcher Paul Norton, of Leongatha South, submitted a statement for council chief executive officer Tim Tamlin to read on his behalf. Mr Norton claimed council records of the February 16 briefing session, at which he spoke, were an inaccurate record of events.

SOUTH Gippsland is not a priority for more timber infrastructure investment, despite being a major player in Victoria’s timber industry.

That is the viewpoint of the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Timber Towns draft study, Cr David Lewis said.

Baw Baw and Latrobe shire councils also missed out. The strategy will be presented at the Timber Towns AGM on April 8.

CR Kennedy has called for more street sweeping and extra bins at Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay during peak holiday periods. Speaking on behalf of traders, Cr Kennedy said the towns had been swamped by extra rubbish, particularly as visitors renting houses must dispose of rubbish before they leave.

He also called for further sealing of Atherton Drive in Venus Bay, as the existing seal stops 400m before Number Five Beach.

COUNCIL could take a lead role in the bid to reduce pipi poaching at Venus Bay. Cr Kennedy attended a meeting held

by Victoria Police and the Victorian Multicultural Commission, with the outcome being the proposed appointment of a cultural officer.

“This officer will have to be just short of walking on water to solve the issues,” he said.

CR Kennedy corrected ABC radio talkback host John Faine for wrongly reporting that council had been approached about a resort proposal within Wilsons Promontory National Park. Cr Kennedy rang Mr Faine to inform him and listeners the resort was actually proposed for outside the park.

CR Jennie Deane, representing South Gippsland and Bass Coast shire councils, attended a planning day for the Rural Development Australia Gippsland Committee. Federal Minister for Regional Australia, Simon Crean, has requested a list of priority projects for Gippsland.

CR Jeanette Harding has asked for council engineers to have a copy of a training video developed

by Murray Goulburn for its B-double tanker drivers. She believes the video offers valuable safety tips and demonstrates problems with local roads.

COUNCIL has delayed discussions about contributing funding towards advocating for better internet services in the region under the National Broadband Network. Cr Deane said council needs to know the cost required of council, as well as the benefits, before making an investment.

While the infrastructure is now being laid, full connection of the network will take nine years and so many councils are now lobbying for early connection to their areas.

A YANAKIE road will be resheeted, after the community lodged a petition.

Yanakie residents twice called on council to fix Shellcott Road. Council has undertaken grading and culvert works, and this month will improve the camber on the corners and perform more drainage works.

COUNCIL has turned down an offer to buy the former Bindaree school camp at Poowong. The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development asked if council was keen to buy the site, and while council considered the property as a future community hub, this plan was deemed inappropriate as the camp is located too far out of town.

“I certainly hope the site would be beautified and be a good endorsement for the future of the town,” Cr Jennie Deane said.

LEONGATHA firm Considine and Johnston has received the $617,288 contract to extend the Leongatha Children’s Centre.

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Lobby group set to go MARY Aldred has been appointed executive director of a group that will work to persuade government to take more notice of Gippsland.

The body, the Committee for Gippsland, is also committed to attracting more government and commercial investment to the region.

In a canny move, the committee has invited Deputy Premier and Member for Gippsland South, Peter Ryan to its official launch on Tuesday April 12, at the Wild Dog Winery in Warragul.

Ms Aldred said committee representatives had met Mr Ryan early in March to tell him about the group’s aims.

“He was very receptive.”

She is expecting more than 70 people to attend the launch, which will spell out the organisation’s plans for the next 90 days and 12 months.

The Committee for Gippsland set up a board in October last year. It is a non-government body that draws its membership from all parts of the region.

Board members include Grant Crothers CEO of Burra Foods. The chairman is Harry Rijs who, with members of his family, took a bakery in Bairnsdale to a huge food process-

ing company.

The committee is funded by business and its main aims are to lobby government at all levels and draw more investment to the region.

Mr Rijs said the committee would advocate “for better social, economic and industry outcomes for all Gippslanders”.

Ms Aldred recognised there were challenges.

“But with tremendous natural advantages and a combined effort to succeed, we look forward to securing a strong and sustainable future for Gippsland.”

Mary is a graduate of the Gippsland Community Leadership Program and is completing a Master of Agribusiness at the University of Melbourne. Her last job was as a senior executive for an energy efficiency firm.

On board: Mary Aldred has been appointed executive director of the Committee for Gippsland. With her are Burra Foods CEO Grant Crothers (right) who is on the committee’s inaugural board and Colin Dowel, a Burra Foods supplier. They are at Colin’s farm in Korumburra.

Mayor’s message Cr Veronica Dowman

Facing challenges EACH year, affected councils get together at the Sea Change conference to discuss strategies on issues that affect us all.

At this year’s conference we discussed planning for resilience – looking at the recent natural disasters and how to build resilient communities before disaster strikes.

Bass Coast is one of many coastal communities being affected by a range of complex issues including the impact of tourism, an ageing population, climate change, heat waves, rising sea levels, erosion, storm surges and consequent legal implications.

This was the second Sea Change conference I have attended and it was a powerful reminder of how complex many of the challenges we face are. It was also inspiring to see the expertise that local government was able to bring to the table. I very much enjoyed gaining an insight into how issues we all share impact on other communities and the different approaches taken to resolving them. Being able to collaborate, share knowledge and work together is vital.

Coastal councils represent almost six million people who live in Australian coastal areas outside capital cities.

The rate of growth in these areas is more than 60 per cent higher than the national average and is gathering momentum.

A topic of particular interest from the conference was Regional Development in Coastal Communities and The Population Challenge.

Keynote speaker, the Hon. Simon

Crean discussed the Federal Government’s approach to regional development and confirmed the value of Bass Coast Shire’s collaboration with other councils to develop regional plans.

Recent ABS figures show Bass Coast is the fourth fastest growing municipality in Victoria and the fastest growing regional municipality.

Our own CEO, Allan Bawden, gave a presentation on the impact of large crowds and how these can be managed.

This was a great opportunity to share our experiences with other councils and get feedback from them. It was gratifying to realise that we are introducing some ground-breaking initiatives as we grapple with our visitor influx each summer.

Allan’s explanation of our use of facebook and the Marty the Dogg character to connect with our younger visitors sparked a lot of interest from other delegates.

This week on my radio show I interview Sue Whyte, council’s transport connections officer, who will discuss some of the issues of getting around Bass Coast without a car and where to find more information.

The radio show runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am and 4.30pm, so there is plenty of opportunity to catch it. To check the frequency in your area, log onto www.3mfm.com.au Cr Veronica Dowman, Mayor Bass Coast Shire Council

Meals roster (Leongatha) Reformed Church (11th, 13th, 14th, 15th), National Bank 12th, S. Birch and St Vincent De Paul will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning April 11, 2011.

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star 30 years ago, April 7, 1981 SCIENTISTS from Victoria and New South Wales have been digging up valuable fossils near Koonwarra in the past week. Scientist Tim Flannery has discovered the remains of a 110 million-year-old fish.

10 years ago, April 3, 2001 A MAN threatened to kill a youth with a tomahawk after abducting him in Leongatha on Friday night. The victim, 20, was forced to drive to an ATM in McCartin Street and withdraw an amount of cash, which his abductors stole. **** SOUTH Gippsland has been selected to host the launch of a new national film development project in May this year, by the peak body for Australian film and television, the Australian Film Institute.

Five years ago, April 4, 2006 ALL water restrictions in place throughout South Gippsland will remain, following a month of little rainfall. Across South Gippsland, March rainfall was much below average and, while catchments throughout the district received rainfall over the weekend, this had no impact on storage levels. **** MORE than 3000 signatures have been added to a petition calling for removal of the four South Gippsland Shire councillors who voted for the sale of the Korumburra Saleyards complex.

One year ago, April 7, 2010 WORK has started on a new office/shop building in Bair Street, Leongatha. It will replace the former Gleeson building, which has been an unused eyesore since early 2007.

HACC funding boost BASS Coast Council has received $115,000 from the State Government for Home and Community Care services.

That’s $42,000 more than last year and it is the largest amount given to a Gippsland municipality.

South Gippsland in contrast, received $20,600.

Council community and economic development director Steve Piasente, said about half the extra would go on council’s home care program; the rest for a “minor capital purchase” to go with that program.

The council has around 2200 home care clients.

Mr Piasente said the remaining $73,000 of the $115,000 funding would go to other health care providers in the shire offering services to HACC clients.

Announcing the funding, the Minister for Health and Ageing David Davis, said it was a joint initiative of the state and federal governments.

He said HACC delivers affordable and accessible care to help meet the individual needs of older people, those with disabilities and their carers.

The federal government contributed $7.1 million to this year’s HACC package in Victoria and the state $4.8 million.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 23

Time to remember

SOUTH Gippsland Relay for Life will begin at 3pm this Saturday, April 9 at the Dumbalk Recreation Reserve.

There are 20 current teams, with more than 300 participants.

This relay has a strong following, with more than $25,000 to be raised for cancer research.

Teams will arrive from 1pm to set up and prepare for a long fun-filled night of walking, talking and even some singing and dancing.

There is an impressive line-up of local entertainment to run through the day and night, with never a dull moment.

Entertainment is free and all residents are encouraged to support the event.

At 3pm the relay will be officially opened and survivors and carers will walk the first lap.

People can register as an individual for Relay for Life or join a team on the day; they just need to find the registration tent and pay $15 to walk

the track and receive a polo shirt.

The moving Candlelight Ceremony begins at 9pm where participants reflect on those people lost to cancer and those still fighting the disease.

As dusk settles, candle tributes are placed around the oval for the start of the ceremony.

Bags inscribed with messages of love, remembrance and hope give a warm glow to inspire relay participants as they walk through the night.

Candle bags will be available on the day.

Entertainment will be happening throughout the evening with a great line-up of music, activities and the annual Miss Relay on at midnight.

At 10am on Sunday, the winner of the Spirit of Relay Award will be announced.

Saturday: 2.20pm, Barry Callister; 3pm, opening ceremony; 3.30pm, Barry Callister; 4pm, ground entertainment, face painting, jumping castle, hair braiding, cow and lasso; 4pm, Leongatha Gymnastics; 4.30pm, Leongatha Medieval Society demon-

stration; 5.30pm, line dancers; 6pm, Lisa Pellin Dancers; 6.30pm, Hayley Norton; 7pm Real Women (Deborah Paul and Tarnya Wilson); 7.30pm, Danny and the DA’s, Barb Riches, Danny Riches and Jo Pollard; 9pm, Candlelit Ceremony, Barry Callister and Paul Stampton (on bag pipes); 10pm, Lindsay and Kristy Bovill; and 11pm, James Pellin.

Sunday: 8am, Hayley Norton; 8.45am, Marty Box; and 10am, closing ceremony.

Giving to the cause RELAY for Life is all about fund raising and community support.

This year, like many years in the past, the Leongatha Lions Club has put their hand up to do the catering for the event and Michael’s IGA has kindly provided the food for as little cost as possible.

Gerry Shellcot from the Lions club is very grateful for the

supermarket’s support.

“We’ve always had a strong relationship with IGA and they have helped us out for the past five years,” she said.

“It’s just fabulous what they do for us and for the Relay for Life.”

Last year IGA supplied the Lions club with about $2500 worth of products, ranging from chocolate and cereal to eggs and plastic cutlery.

“We try to do the best we can for

the cause, and try to keep it as cost free as we can,” fresh foods manager at Michael’s IGA Dom D’Agostino said.

“It just makes life for the Lions club easier. They give us their ‘wish list’ and we try and fulfill it at minimum cost.”

The support from the supermarket and other businesses in Leongatha is great to see as people come together to fight cancer.

Pick a winner: Cheryl Boyle from IGA in Leongatha who organised the Relay for Life event, draws the raffle with Bev Hanley.

IGA rallies for relay RELAY for Life participants were out in force at Leongatha’s IGA store last Thursday.

Checkout operators dressed in Relay for Life shirts, posters were on windows and customers supported the raffles.

The big event starts at Dumbalk this Saturday.

Relay organisers are grateful for the support that IGA has given this important event in South Gippsland.

Giving generously: Gerry Shellcot from the Leongatha Lions Club and Dom D’Agostino from Michael’s IGA are supporting Relay for Life all the way.

Team effort: Jo Runciman from Relay for Life with IGA staff, Kylie Brown, Jenny Cantwell and Zara Lawrence and customer Kimberly Pearce with son Jesse.

Council gives chances SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is now a signatory to GEMAD, an exciting initiative related to the employment of people with a disability.

GEMAD (Gippsland Employers Making a Difference) was launched in Gippsland late in 2010 by business entrepreneur Bob Ansett who has been a champion of workforce diversity since the 1970s.

South Gippsland chief executive officer Tim Tamlin was pleased to sign the agreement.

“It fits perfectly with council’s Access and Inclusion Plan which we implement throughout the organisation,” he said.

“Our rural access officer Alisha McDonald actively seeks opportunities for the inclusion of people with a disability and council provides regular work experience opportunities for them.

“We have partnered in initiatives ranging from hosting international capability days to providing disability awareness training for all staff and councillors. We have also been instrumental in producing and distributing access maps and transport booklets to encourage improved mobility for people of all abilities.”

Council has an Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee comprised of community members from across the shire which provide strategic advice to council on

disability issues.

“Their advice assists council to provide for better service and more community infrastructure and events,” Mr Tamlin said.

GEMAD, with its associated charter, is the brainchild of Work Solutions Gippsland, the region’s largest disability employment provider, and is the first Regional Charter of its type in Australia.

“GEMAD draws upon the work of the Australian Network on Disability (AND) and seeks to encourage employers to adopt 11 basic principles relating to the inclusion of people with a disability in the workforce,” Work Solutions Gippsland’s executive director, Donna Faulkner, said.

“We have already had over 300 employers across Gippsland sign the charter, including many South Gippsland employers such as Lucinda Estate, Murphy’s Contracting, Bakers’ Delight, Murray Goulburn and Ryan’s Transport. In addition to this, major employers such as SP Ausnet, Telstra and other local councils such as Wellington, Bass Coast and Latrobe have supported this initiative by becoming signatories.

Ms Faulkner added: “No one is pretending that employment of people with a disability is easy.

Work Solutions Gippsland is committed to supporting GEMAD network members in a variety of ways, including staff training sessions; business breakfasts; seminars and quarterly newsletters.

Lunching for Red Cross THE Waratah Red Cross unit held a barbecue and picnic to raise money for Red Cross Calling recently.

About 250 people attended the picnic held at Ross and Sue Svenson’s Walkerville property, enjoying a stunning lunch prepared by Red Cross ladies. Many guests enjoyed walking along the beach in front of the property.

The event was combined with an open studio day at Wandabandi near Tarwin Lower where work by Mandy Gunn and her students was displayed.

A percentage of sales went to Red Cross. More than $6263 was raised through gate entries, donations, purchases and the raffles.

Talking land: Jamie Taylor, Rod Tayler and Prue Fleming discuss recent rainfall reports at the lunch.

Good cause: some of the crowd lunching at the barbecue.

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Hall pivotal to Dumbalk OVER the decades, the Dumbalk Hall has always been a community driven project.

Before the hall was built, the Dumbalk and district community had pooled money towards the project without help from the council or government.

The hall was originally constructed for

the total cost of $40,000.

As a thank you to all the people who have catered for weddings, meetings and functions at the hall, the Dumbalk Ladies Auxiliary decided to hold an afternoon tea reunion recently.

About 30 people shared stories, a piece of slice and a cup of tea at the hall and enjoyed reminiscing about the past.

Old friends: Reminiscing together about the past were Coral Stewart, Jane Duncly, Verna Rob, Gwen Moore, Carmel Opray, June Butterworth, Joan Farnham, Gwen Haiwell, Pat Thomas, Bev Greenwood and Shirley Trease.

Catering excellence: Marg Cantwell, Robin Bland, Karen Smith, Marie Murphy and Faye Bland manned the kitchen on the day.

Kicking the dog A GROUP of about 10 riders passed through South Gippsland last week as part of their 1125km ride from Bathurst to Melbourne.

Perfect couples: Bill and Barbara Fuller with Elsa and Pat Horan were enjoying the afternoon.

The Kick the Dog Tour 2011 is a charity ride to raise money and awareness for the Black Dog Institute and Panorama clinic at Bathurst.

The funds will help with the fight against depression and bipolar disorder.

The team stopped in Koonwarra on Tuesday just after breaking the 1000km point as well as tackling the Hoddle Ranges (Foster Hill) earlier that day.

“We’re pretty excited to reach the 1000km mark. It means we’re on the home stretch,” cyclist David McLean said.

“Our map showed it would be big, but we didn’t expect that big.”

A majority of the riders are officers from the Bathurst Correctional Centre in NSW. The team has raised about $20,000 for the cause, with more pledged from workers in the Department of Correctional Services in NSW. “The NSW DCS has asked all employees to offer up a day of leave instead of a monetary donation,” Mr McLean said.

“We’ve got enough signatures

to have pledged around $25,000 which will go to the cause.”

The ‘black dog’ represents depression and related diseases which led to the name of the tour.

A few of the riders have been touched by the ‘black dog’ themselves, some personally and others have had friends and family who have been involved with the disease. For these riders this is an extra special trip.

The riders on the tour are forever grateful for the support from locals all along the trip such as the Korumburra Caravan Park, as well as on-tour support from Greg Bell from Belly’s Bikes.

Bank in business TARWIN LOWER is now enjoying the newly launched Bendigo Bank Agency which opened last Wednesday.

The new agency will provide local people with alternative banking options right in their own town.

Customers will have access to ‘real time banking’, which means transactions are completed immediately which results in same day access to funds, immediate transfer of funds between accounts and electronic fund transfer.

The new agency will have vital ties with the Inverloch and District Community Bank Branch, and be fully supported to ensure the community has access to all banking services and products.

Alisha Mulholland, agencies officer from the Bendigo Bank group, said it’s great for the community.

“Not only can people do real time transactions but it gives a base for Inverloch branch manager, Jackie Laurie to come out to the community,” she said.

“This can be handy for discussing things such as home loans and opening accounts.”

The Bendigo Bank Agency is open from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, and 9.30am to noon on Saturday.

Call in and see your local agency staff at Terry White Chemists Tarwin Lower Depot, Shop 2, 47 River Drive, Tarwin Lower or contact them on 5663 5504.

Depression fighters: (from left) Bjorn Osborne, Greg Bell, Jamie Stedman, Martin Barnes, David Mclean, Rod Lovett and Wayne Cole are raising funds and awareness for the Black Dog Institute.

Council seeks answers SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is encouraging the community to provide feedback on its Crown Land Caravan and Camping Park project by completing an on-line survey.

In training: Bendigo Bank agencies officer Alisha Mulholland showing Sue Hasell how to be a banking agency operator.

The questionnaire is available at: www.southgippsland. vic.gov.au The survey is part of the process of preparing a master plan which will guide the future management of those caravan parks for which council is a committee of management.

The master plan is a long term plan covering the next 20 years for the Waratah Bay, Yanakie, Long Jetty and Korumburra caravan parks.

“Your feedback is essential in shaping the future use of these public resources,” said council’s property development co-ordinator, Chris Van Der Ark. “It is important to this project that any significant changes made to these parks are a direct result of the community’s feedback, as well as complying with State Government policy direction for caravan and camping parks on Crown land.”

Community input will be considered and, where appropriate, integrated into the draft master plan.

On completion of the draft master plan, a public information session will be held.

Ms Van Der Ark welcomes enquiries and can be contacted on 5662 9391.

Register up and running

A COMMUNITY register is soon to be set up in South Gippsland.

This free program is designed to enhance the confidence and safety of people on the register by offering friendly contact, assistance, and advice.

The South Gippsland Community Register is a joint initiative of the Leongatha police, South Gippsland Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) and South Gippsland Shire Council.

The register aims to promote confident and secure living for people over 50 and those with a disability.

When on the register members can choose to have regular contact calls made to them if they are isolated and don’t have family or friends nearby.

When an emergency situation arises the police will use the information on the register to contact you or find someone to contact you.

Apart from these emergency situations all information on the register will be confidential and secure.

If you wish to join the register contact either the South Gippsland Shire Council or the South Gippsland CAB or call 5662 2111.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 25

th

50 show a stunner

THE Welshpool Horticultural Society wrapped up its 50th annual autumn flower show at the Welshpool Hall to grand applause.

The two day show attracted hundreds of entries from across Gippsland.

Society president Elizabeth Robertson opened the show on Friday afternoon, describing this year’s show as one of their best.

“The standard of the entries is outstanding, especially given the wet and windy weather we have been having of late,” she said.

Over the two days, hundreds of garden lovers made their way to

Welshpool to wander through the many exhibits.

Results Best in show: Harvest Basket, Margie and Mike Christian; best exhibit dahlias: Paul and Pauline Gallon, Pakenham Upper; best exhibit in cut flowers: B. Ollington, Leongatha; best exhibit in cut flowers shrubs and trees in containers: Jean Humphry, Leongatha.

Best exhibit in plants growing in pots or containers: Kate Crowl, Foster; best exhibit floral art: Arie Bos, Welshpool.

Best exhibit in vegetable and fruit: M. and M. Christian; best exhibit in home garden produce Terry Josephs, Toora; best exhibit in snap-

shots: Elizabeth Roberts, Overseas Garden.

Best dahlia: P. and P. Gallon; best rose exhibit: Arie Bos; best cacti and succulent: Olga Wigg; best hanging container: B. Ollington; Sedunary Memorial Trophy for collection of fruit: Terry Josephs.

Public choice: celebration table, R. McPherson. Other trophy winners: J. Dineen, H. Height, R. Gyles, P. Fleming, S. Leask-Grylls, B. Partridge, S. Thompson and M. Rogers.

Children’s entries: Brianna, Olivia, Charlotte, Sean, Dylan and Hayden.

Visitors: Beat Ollington, Josie Rutherford and Lillian Johnson from Leongatha admire the many displays at the Welshpool Flower Show with Barb Partridge from Welshpool.

Best floral: Arie Bos once again showed his flair with flowers by taking out the Welshpool Flower Show’s best floral Cup cakes: Welshpool Primary School students Ebony Hendrie, Sam Walker and Joe Platt admire the cup cake display. art section.

Best exhibit: Welshpool Horticultural Society president Elizabeth Robertson admires the best show exhibit.

Kids love Prom LOCH students enjoyed an adventure at Wilsons Promontory National Park before heavy rain struck, shutting the park recently.

The Grade 6 students settled down quickly and set up their tents fast.

The boys and girls enjoyed beach

cricket, canoeing, hiking Mount Bishop, swimming in Tidal River and walking to Squeaky Beach.

“Everyone enjoyed it and we all wish we could keep going every year, but sadly that’s not going to happen, as we move to secondary school next year,” student Abby Kenny said.

Above: Conquered mountain: Loch students atop Mount Bishop.

Bombs away: Gus launches himself into the cool waters of Tidal River.

Merrily, merrily: Aaron takes to the water on a canoe.

Tarwin Valley in harmony STUDENTS and staff at Tarwin Valley Primary School celebrated Harmony Week recently by dressing up in orange or colours of flags from Australia and other countries.

The event was initiated by Indonesian teacher, Bu Bland, who wanted the students to acknowledge different cultures and their contribution to our community.

The theme for the day was ‘We Belong’ and the day helped students understand how Australians are alike and different.

“As a school, we all come from different backgrounds and need to work together harmoniously for a safe, secure

and supportive school environment,” principal Brett Smith said.

Many students and teachers shared their connections to other cultures including links to Fiji, Sweden, England, Poland, Hungary and Holland.

Students enjoyed activities with Bu Bland and staff enjoyed a multicultural lunch.

Harmony: Tarwin Valley Primary School students Niamh, Mitchell, teacher Bu Bland, Hayley, Liam, Talia and Rory celebrated different cultures.

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

RUBY Glenn McRae is the first child and a daughter for Paul McRae and Laura McDonald of Leongatha. Ruby was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on March 25.

JARRAH Edward Rutherford was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on March 11 to Bree and Dan Rutherford of Phillip Island.

ELLIE Lauren Donelly is the first child for Nicole Donnelly and third daughter for John Martin of Grantville. She was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on March 23 and is a sister for Tegan and Brianna.

KOHAN Anthony Walls was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on March 25. He is another son for Kristie and Anthony of Leongatha, and a brother for Darcy, aged 14 and Morgan, aged 11.

ZANE Larsson was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on March 28 to Teagan Balmer and Daniel Larsson of Surf Beach, Cowes. Zane is a new brother for Jack Larsson, aged two-and-a-half.

LETITIA Bullen and Brad Angwin of Foster are happy to announce the birth of Zayda Jade Angwin on March 11.

LILY Anna Hinch is the first child for Melinda Glew and Jeremy Hinch of Cape Paterson. Lily was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on March 22.

XAHLIA Ann Sutton-Stevenson was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 8 to Michelle Stevenson and Troy Sutton of Wonthaggi.

THOMAS John Deering was born at South Gippsland Hospital at Foster on March 24. He is a son for Paul and Jacki of Meeniyan.

BRIDIE Carmel Bowler was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on March 23 to Lisa and Luke Bowler of Cape Woolamai. Bridie is a new sister to Maddison, three.

REBECCA Louise Ellen is the first daughter for Renee and Laura Ellen of Nerrena and little sister for Samuel, three and Lachie, 19 months. She was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on March 26.

AMELIA Louise Thomas was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on March 2 to Angela and Craig Thomas of Wonthaggi. Amelia is a new sister for twin boys Oliver and Jackson, two years and five months.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 27

This modern, low maintenance unit is available through SEJ in Leongatha. For more information see page 30.

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Invest in yourself with a parkland view I

T doesn’t possible.

seem

A neat, sweet, two bedroom unit in Leongatha’s best street, at a price to suit most budgets.

Tucked away behind the front double storey town houses, is a nest of three single level apartments.

The middle one is number five.

Here, a modest front entrance, which has a covered carport and a courtyard garden, belies the dreamy, creamy little palace inside.

At a glance Price: $175,000 $195,000 Location: 5/29 Jeffrey Street, Leongatha Agent: First National Prom Country Contact: Kaz Hughes 0417 516 998

Walk down a hallway (how refreshing not to open up straight into the lounge) past the main bedroom, and step down to a spacious, light-filled, open plan living space with the winter sunshine streaming in through the windows and glass doors. Plenty big enough for a lounge and a meals area, with a very generous kitchen overseeing it all, there is also a cosy, sun-filled reading nook, a very sleek European-style bathroom/ laundry combination with a separate shower recess

and a separate toilet.

Step out the door and into the rear courtyard, where there is a sectioned off zone for the washing line, and a timber decked pergola perfect for cuppas overlooking the park.

With a back gate to allow access into the park and to A’Beckett Street on the other side, this little cutie is too good to be an investment - you’ll want it to be your little town apartment instead.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 29

Prom Country T

Y N DA PE UR O AT S S I H

T

T

Y N DA PE UR O AT S S I H

T

Accommodation Bonanza!

Think Inside the Square

Ranch Style Residence on an Acre

Wishing Wells

Impressive, renovated home with self-contained retreat downstairs for teenage, in-laws or home business! 3 or 4 brms, 4 living rooms, 3 bath, ducted vacuum, alarm and more.

INSPECT Saturday @ 12.00 - 12.30pm Address 29 Giles Street, MIRBOO NORTH $360,000 - $395,000

With elevated views, this attractive home has a clever floorplan where rooms wrap round a central courtyard. 3BRs, 2 bath, formal & informal living zones, ducted vac, lovely gardens & farmland behind.

INSPECT Saturday @ 2.00 - 2.30pm Address 76 Baromi Road, MIRBOO NORTH $275,000 - $300,000

In the popular Wells Road precinct of Mirboo North, this ranch-style residence has spacious living, 3 brms & 2 bath, a wide front verandah, carport & garage, all on an easy-care 1 acre plus allotment INSPECT Saturday @ 1.00 - 1.30pm Address 28 Wells Road, MIRBOO NORTH $310,000 - $340,000

Don’t just wish, come & see this substantial, wellappointed 4 brm home on half acre. Expansive living space, 2 bath, timber floors, gorgeous kitchen, dado paneling, heating & cooling, great sheds.

INSPECT Saturday @ 1.00 - 1.30pm Address 21 Wells Rd. MIRBOO NORTH $325,000 - $350,000

Huge Price Amendment. Buy & Build Now on 13 acres!

What Will You Build?

You will need to build within the guidelines of the planning permit soon, so this 13 acre parcel is repriced to sell now! With a gently sloping fall, & fenced specifically to suit horses with a loose box and tack room, there are troughs to the paddocks, a dam, and areas of fenced native vegetation. With no near neighbours but within close proximity of Leongatha’s regional facilities and Meeniyan – an increasingly popular destination for “lifestylers”. Best value around? We think so!

Surrounded by quality, executive-style homes in Mirboo North’s Wells Road, you will find this increasingly rare, residential land ready for your dream home. The land is a big, open allotment of over an acre, with perimeter plantings for privacy, and lovely bushland views. With underground power, reticulated water, sewerage and phone all available, all you need to do is decide the style of your new home. Drop into our Mirboo North office and look at our scrapbook of ideas!

INSPECT By Appointment Address L1 Meeniyan-Nerrena Road, MEENIYAN (Cnr G Browns Rd)

INSPECT By Appointment $170,000 - $180,000 Address 10-12 Wells Road, MIRBOO NORTH

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

$140,000 - $160,000

OPEN 7 DAYS

Y N DA PE UR O AT S S I H

Y N DA PE UR O AT S S I H

kaz hughes 0417 516 998

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

lisa williams 0438 133 385

Kookaburra Laughs – An Acre Plus!

Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This

A shady, tree-lined drive, just over an acre, a brick house with a traditional, 4 bedroom – 2 bathroom family floorplan and leafy garden outlooks from most rooms. A modern kitchen features all as-new stainless steel appliances. Two sizeable living areas, paved and undercover bbq area, 4-bay lock up shed with concrete floor and power, a well fenced paddock, all on around half an acre.

Other features include modern and light interior décor, and gas ducted heating throughout.

This bright, 3 BR Victorian weatherboard retains original features inc. 11ft ceilings, timber floors, & painted timber walls & ceilings. On a pretty half acre parcel, the home features open plan kitchen & dining which spills onto a north-facing deck, 2 wood heaters & Split System, and gorgeous cottage gardens with a stunning 100yo oak, fruit, veggies and chicken run. Baths Road Reserve is over the back fence, & it’s a short walk to the pool, park, schools, & chocolate shop. Sweet!

INSPECT Sunday @ 1.30 - 2.00pm Address 83-85 Kookaburra Drive, KOONWARRA

INSPECT Sunday @ 12.00 - 12.30pm Address 6 Pincini Street, MIRBOO NORTH

$485,000 - $525,000

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

natasha ireland 0409 292 808

$275,000 - $305,000

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

allen bartlett 0417 274 624

glenys foster property management

‘Meander’- a relaxing lifestyle on 10 acres

“The Ash Grove” - an Idyllic 7 acre Koonwarra Lifestyle

The design of this new, well-conceived home evolved over many picnic breakfasts in the hayshed, watching the path of the sun. The result is a highly liveable, 3 bdm home with all-important northern orientation, contemporary styling and quality appointments. The home is poised gracefully at the end of a winding driveway with commanding views to Mt Baw Baw. Outdoors - plenty of shedding, a workshop, fruit trees & veggies, & eggcellent facilities for breeding chooks or other small animals.

3 paddocks, new stock yards, loading ramp & electric fencing. With the home & gardens being low maintenance in nature, you’ll find there’s plenty of time – & space too – for doing all the things you love!

INSPECT Sunday @ 2.00 - 2.30pm Address 900 Boolarra-Mirboo North Road, BOOLARRA $650,000 - $675,000

A winding driveway lined with mature claret ash leads to a gorgeous country homestead, perfectly positioned on its 7 acre surrounds. The immaculate residence commands a northerly aspect to light-filled interior spaces, where a delightfully modern decor is complimented by the warmth of timber floors, new carpets and high ceilings in a 3 bedroom plus study floor plan. Rich red soils, stock handling facilities & fencing is excellent, tank & dam water is abundant. Triple car accommodation, substantial colorbond shedding & parking. House gardens are colourful and well planned, and tree plantings are a spectacular combination of maturing specimen, deciduous and natives. Charisma in Koonwarra.

INSPECT Sunday @ 1.00 - 1.30pm Address 103 Johnson’s Road, KOONWARRA $595,000 - $640,000

5664 0224

93 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan 84 Ridgway, Mirboo North promcountryre.com.au

julie fowkes property management

emma sullings marketing

5668 1660

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

New in The Grange T

HIS modern, immaculately maintained residence is located in The Grange, a renowned over-55 secure and independent complex.

The spacious two bedroom unit, the master bedroom with walk-in robes,

also contains two bathrooms, both with light/ heater/fans and towel heaters and a separate second toilet.

An open plan living, kitchen and dining area shows off an impressive kitchen with plenty of cabinet space, dishwasher, glass cook top and range hood as

well as a kitchen water filtering system.

Quality professionally made and installed curtains and blinds are perfectly colour co-ordinated with the carpet.

A hassle-free backyard has a wonderful variety of plants and a water feature, with no grass to cut.

A double garage is equipped with an automatic door.

Front yard maintenance as well as roof and gutter maintenance is looked after by the Owners Corporation and a social centre in The Grange contains a fully equipped kitchen, large video screen and sound system as well as a video and book library and barbecue facilities.

The unit is located within walking distance of town and is in a quiet neighbourhood, with immaculate gardens throughout the village.

This is a rare opportunity to purchase this feature packed residence in a prime location in this beautifully landscaped community minded village.

At a glance Location: Unit 12/17 MacDonald Street, Leongatha Price: $330,000 Agent: SEJ, Leongatha Contact: 5662 4033

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 31

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

A place to entertain J

OHN Farnham, The Rolling Stones and Bert Newton all have one characteristic in common with this property - they are all great entertainers.

Designed with functionality and entertaining in mind, this home is ideal for weekend get togethers or weekend dinner parties.

Open and spacious in all living zones, it is only matched by comfort, warmth and modern designs in bedrooms.

Offering a blissfully secluded haven just 200 metres from the beach, this home showcases quality in its design and a unique vibe in its contemporary yet laid back ambiance both inside and out.

Multiple living/entertaining spaces include large open living room, sleek well appointed kitchen/dining area which flows onto a north facing deck/courtyard entertaining area.

There is a home office, two bathrooms with modern finishes and four bedrooms all with builtin robes. The master bedroom also features a private decking retreat.

Amongst a myriad of features are stainless steel Blanco kitchen appliances, exposed ceiling beams, reverse cycle split system air conditioning, large carport, landscaped gardens, solid fuel Coonara heater and ceiling fans.

An inspection will surely impress and the vendor is motivated to sell. For further information or

to arrange an inspection please contact Robb Lawrie or Michael Wilkinson at the Venus Bay office 5663 7111.

At a glance Location: 37 McIndoe Avenue, Venus Bay Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Venus Bay Contact: 5663 7111

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 33

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Time for change T

HE TEAM at Stockdale and Leggo, Inverloch are looking forward to a fresh approach with new ownership as of last week.

Mick Hanily and Jason Harris

have added the Inverloch branch to their network of real estate agents, going into business with Adam Leys from Stockdale and Leggo Leongatha and Glenn Bolam.

Glenn will be the face of the office as manager. Having spent 20

years with Australia Post in Inverloch and the past three years in Real Estate, he is no stranger to the area.

Glenn said he is excited at the chance to be a co-owner of Stockdale and Leggo.

“It’s a great opportunity that

Old and new: the original team at Stockdale and Leggo, Inverloch has been joined by new owners, Adam Leys and Glenn Bolam. From left: Adam Leys, Virginia McEntee, Naomy Hendricks, Kristy Sanbrook, Victoria Smith and Glenn Bolam.

doesn’t come around too often. I’m rapt to be part of the business,” he said.

“It will be a challenge, but I look forward to working with great staff and having a good sales person in Adam.”

It will not be all new faces in the agents, with the majority of the original team staying on.

Adam said there is a wealth of knowledge about the area, with licensee Virginia McEntee having 25 years experience in the industry.

“And having the same staff on means rentals are business as usual,” he said.

Glenn said real estate is a competitive market in Inverloch, with five other agents, and is prepared to put in the long hours to provide the best service possible.

“Having ownership means you are interested in not only sales, but rentals as well,” he said.

“It also means you can run the business the way you like it. Stockdale and Leggo is a strong brand in Australia and I am happy to now be part of it.”

Glenn, on behalf of himself, Adam and the team at Stockdale and Leggo Inverloch, are more than happy to help you out in any way they can and look forward to the new change.

“Come in and see us.”

Face of the business: manager Glenn Bolam looks forward to the new challenge of owning his own business.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 35

Mums hit the surf Top in state

MOTHERS of Preschoolers from the Corner Inlet communities are gearing up for a funfilled six-week program with the Swell Mamas.

Swell Mamas is a surfing support program that sprung up two years ago in Inverloch under the Bass Coast Board Riders Club.

The initial vision was to create an opportunity for women to surf in a supportive and child friendly environment, and that they have certainly done.

Swell Mamas has engaged more than 100 women and their children since inception and has provided financial support to 18 women to complete their Surf Life Saving Bronze Medallion.

Eight of these went on to complete their level one in surf coaching with Surfing Victoria. Participants have ranged from the very young to women in their 70s.

“The community interest in Swell Mamas has been fantastic,” facilitator Lucy Cousens said.

“Surfing is a huge part of my life and it is so wonderful to be able to share this with others.”

Like the sister program in Inverloch, Swell Mothers of Preschoolers is free and equipment can be provided at no cost if participants don’t have their own. The program is based at Sandy Point.

“The success of this program, as with the Inverloch Swell Mamas, has been underpinned by the support we have received from local businesses, government and Surfing Victoria, in particular”, co-facilitator, Geraldine Archibald, said.

The program is about access and

SOME people in Toora say their town is only one ‘K’ from Toorak, but in reality it is streaks ahead in education excellence.

Water fans: braving the wintry weather at their inaugural Swell Mothers of Preschoolers session at Sandy Point are Shianne Murray, Lucy Cousens, Lilly Bassed, Megan Bassed, Eva Bassed and Anne Gleeson. improving the skills and confidence of women, in a fun, stress free environment.

“It’s about bringing your children to the beach with you, having a play and having a surf. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never surfed in your life before – everyone can have a go,” Ms Archibald said.

Shianne Murray, of the South Gippsland Hospital, initiated the development of the Swell MOPS program.

‘We were funded by the Bendigo Bank and YMCA SPLASH to develop an active lifestyle program that involved mentoring, buddying up and supporting women with preschool aged children. There were obvious synergies in what Swell Mamas were doing in Inverloch and what we wanted to do,” Ms Murray said.

★★★★★★★★ ★★★★★★★★ ARIES - March 21 - April 20

Pursue a long-term goal with new determination. Variety is the spice of life in a week that includes reconciliations, cultural events and detective work.

TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

Travel may be extended although the budget remains the same.

Moderation is all important, especially in areas of health and diet.

A family feud comes to an amicable end.

GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

Capricorns or Leos may step into the friendship picture, with much of the relationship remaining on an intellectual level. Watch a tendency to overcommit yourself, at home and at the workplace.

CANCER - June 22 - July 22

This week sees you rearranging priorities, with a quick series of decisions made after the weekend. Self-education is accented. A solution to a romantic dilemma comes from a surprise source.

LEO - July 23 - August 22

Politics are featured this week. You may be running for office or lending support to a local candidate. A relationship may benefit from an open discussion and perhaps a change of scene.

VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

Watch a tendency to be picky. Loved ones count on your upbeat generous nature. This week favours the launching of a personal alliance. A new source of income is worth investigating.

LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

The economic picture brightens but don’t jump to too many conclusions. A friend becomes more logical and you respond well to that approach. Watch a tendency to be overly critical.

SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

Being outspoken may not win friends, but it does gain you admirers.

This is a good week to improve your physique, travel to new destinations and upgrade skills. Image is important after the weekend.

SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

Weekend ideas may backfire, but you can come up with new and improved suggestions. Your prestige starts to increase and your partner becomes less preoccupied and more sentimental.

CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

Singles may find that friendship is leading to romance, while attached Capricornians may decide the time is right for a romantic getaway.

All expenses should be reviewed by the weekend.

AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

A tendency to be pessimistic can be counterproductive, which is unfortunate in a week that highlights creativity and imagination.

Platonic friends prove their loyalties. Travel mixes with education.

PISCES - February 20 - March 20

The news you have been waiting for for some time finally arrives and may include a surprise announcement. If presenting your case, stress facts over emotion.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

Your ability to empathise wins you life-long friends and you understand the special needs of people. Your powerful imagination can have both positive and negative results. This year it can lead to spectacular accomplishments, provided you learn to use it effectively.

‘What I love about Swell Mamas is that they build skills and community connection.”

Swell Mamas will draw on a range of their Bass Coast participants to support the Sandy Point program.

“One of our mums does the website for us, and others assist on a roster basis with the program facilitation of (now) both programs. Swell Mamas is a team effort,” Ms Cousens said.

The group meets for the next five Fridays at 10.30am at the Sandy Point Café for a cuppa first, and then heads off for a surf directly across the road from the cafe by 11am.

Participants can register to participate in Swell MOPS by phoning Chris at the South Gippsland Hospital on 5683 9780 or for more information contact Lucy via the Swell Mamas website www.swellmamas.org.au.

Toora Primary School’s Grade 5 students were among the top in the state according to the latest NAPLAN results published on the My School website, and way in front of their contemporaries at Toorak Primary School.

Toora PS measured “substantially above” the national average in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy.

Principal Barbara Purvis was ecstatic at the results, but not at all surprised at her students’ excellent results.

“They’re a particularly strong cohort of students and they’ve worked really well.

They did really well in their NAPLAN results in Grade 3 and they continued on with that,” she said.

“Sometimes when you’ve got high performing junior students they level out as they go through the grades,

Toora’s top achievers: last year’s Grade 5 students, who topped the NAPLAN tests, with principal Barbara Purvis and literacy co-ordinator Kerry Corcoran. but this group were really high fliers in Grade 3 and that’s been maintained.

“Over the last few years we’ve realised that not only do you need to focus on the underachievers, but put as much work into preparing material for your stronger students.”

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8267

Church Times ANGLICAN: Wednesday, April 6: 9.30am Woorayl Lodge HC; 10.15am Koorooman House HC; 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Sunday, April 10: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Exploring Worship; 10.30am Union Church, Tarwin Lower HC. Tuesday, April 12: 7pm St Andrew’s, Dumbalk / St David’s, Meeniyan Fellowship.

ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am.

ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am.

ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion.

CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984.

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD: Prom Coast Community Church Inc. - Foster Community House, Station Street, 10am: Sunday. Sunday School and Creche operates. Pastor Bill Watson 5686 2248.

A.O.G. Inverloch - Cnr Bear and McIntosh Street, Inverloch. Sunday Service 10am. Contact: Jeff Robertson, 0418 125 832 or Imagine Burwood 9888 7466.

Korumburra Southern Hills A.O.G. - 4 Mine Rd, Sunday, 10am Worship Service and 5pm Prayer Service. Also Children’s Church and Creche. Contact: 5655 2478. Youth: Neville Stuart ph. 0407 343 219.

Leongatha South Gippsland Liberty Fellowship - 17 Michael Place, Leongatha.

Sunday services: 10 am and 7pm. Office: 5662 3100.

Wonthaggi A.O.G. - Billson Street, 10am: Sunday. Contact: Pastor Barry Smith 5672 3984.

CHRISTIAN REVIVAL CRUSADE: 40 Hughes Street, Leongatha.

Sunday, Morning Service 10.30 am: Inspirational Service, 6.30pm: Children’s Church 10.30am: Home cells weekly. For all enquiries contact 5664 5455.

THE CHURCH AT ARCHIES CREEK: Meeting every Sunday at Archies Creek. Morning Com-

munion Service 11 am: Evening Holy Spirit Revival 6pm: Phone: Ps. Chris Chetland 5674 3867 or 5672 4660.

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST: Saturdays, Church service 10am., Leongatha Sabbath School 11.30am.

CATHOLIC: St Laurence’s Parish Leongatha: 5 pm Mass Saturday, 11am Mass Sunday.

Tarwin Lower: In St Andrew’s Union Church, 5pm winter, 6pm summer Mass Saturday.

Meeniyan: 9.30am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 11am, 2nd and 4th Sundays.

Mirboo North: 11am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 9.30am Mass, 2nd and 4th Sundays.

St. Joseph’s Parish Korumburra: 9.30am Sunday Mass.

Loch: 5pm/6pm Daylight saving Sunday Mass.

Wonthaggi: Saturday evening 6.30pm: Evening Mass; Sunday, 10.30am: Mass. Inverloch: Sunday 9 am: Mass.

KORUMBURRA’S AGLOW: First Monday every month at Korumburra Day Centre, Korumburra Hospital, Bridge St., Korumburra at 7.45pm. Inquiries phone 5657 2214.

GIPPSLAND CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Meets at Baromi Centre, Mirboo North, Sundays 4pm - 5pm communion, 5pm - 5.30pm refreshments, 5.30pm - 6.15pm Bible studies for adults, teens and children. All enquiries: Bob Stevens 0400 403 765.

SALVATION ARMY LEONGATHA COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 52 Anderson Street (South Gippsland Highway) - Sunday: Family Worship at 10am: Kid’s Club - Tuesday, 4 - 5pm; mainly music, Thursday 10am. All welcome. Please contact Captain Claire Emerton or Lieutenant Rachael Collins, ph. 5662 5122.

SALVATION ARMY WONTHAGGI COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 149 McKenzie Street every Sunday at 11am for Family Worship.

Kids' Club - every Tuesday at 4 pm, Women's Group - Wednesday at 1.30pm, and Playgroup - Friday 9.30am. Evening Ladies' Fellowship - First Monday each month and Youth Groups held monthly. All welcome. Please contact Lt. Robyn and Max Lean. Ph. 5672 1228.

PRESBYTERIAN: Weekly Worship Service 10am Sunday, corner Bent and Turner Streets, Leongatha. Phone Rev. Dr D. Clarnette 0409 236 981 or elder Col Rump 5662 2107.

CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH: Reformed Church

meeting at the corner of Peart and Brown Streets. Sunday family service at 10.30am. (10am daylight saving time), creche and Sunday School available. 7.30pm service: All Sunday evenings except 1st Sunday of the month, 5pm service.

Fortnightly youth activities. Home Bible Fellowship groups. Contact 5662 2527.

UNITING CHURCH: Leongatha: Sunday 9am Contemporary Worship, 10.45 Traditional Worship.

Tarwin Lower: 10.30am. Mirboo North: 9.30am. Meeniyan: 10am.

Wonthaggi: Sunday 9.30am, Family Service, all welcome. Inverloch: Sunday 11am: Korumburra: Sunday, 9.30am: Rev. Pastors Gavin and Sue Sharp, 5655 1997. Arawata: 11.30am 1st & 3rd Sundays. Kongwak: 11.30am 4th Sunday.

BAPTIST CHURCH KORUMBURRA: 39 Mine Rd, Korumburra. Service and Sunday School 10.30am. Pastor Ian Wilkinson.

Phone 5658 1366.

BAPTIST CHURCH WONTHAGGI: Cnr McBride & Broome Crescent, Wonthaggi.

Morning Service & Children’s Activities, Sunday 10am. Weekly activities see www. wonbaptist.org.au, Pastor Geoff Pegler 5672 4769.

MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Sunday, 10am: Meeniyan Youth Club Hall.

COMBINED CHURCHES WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH: 4th Sunday each month at 7pm.

SCOTS PIONEER CHURCH: Mardan South. Pleasant Sunday Afternoons on the last Sunday of each month at 2pm. See occasional ad in this paper for details. For enquiries phone 9853 6627.

FISH CREEK UNION CHURCH: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 9am; 2nd & 4th Sundays, 7pm. Contacts: Fran Grimes 5683 2650, Sue Poletti 5663 6325.

Ms Purvis said the school had focused on “making the work challenging for all levels”.

She said some children were doing Year 7 level work in Grade 5.

“It depends how they’re going with it. You just keep lifting the bar,” she said.

6.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

16.

20.

22.

23.

24.

25.

ACROSS Bizarre (10) One (4) Examine (4) Flyer (5) Zest (4) Fame (9) Blacken (9) Unfortunately (4) Brittle (5) Clothe (4) Prohibit (4) Dog (10)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

7.

13.

14.

15.

17.

18.

19.

21.

DOWN Brawn (6) Loot (7) Marksman (6) Bone (6) Aviator’s lifesaver (abbrev.) (5) Seat (5) Tavern (3) Outlaw (7) Glossy (5) Puzzle (6) Unclean (6) Menace (6) Range (5)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8267 ACROSS 6. Dance with a man: a heavyweight (10). 8. Depict as a minor setback (4). 9. Poppycock! “23 Across” is wrong (4). 10. I had a call from somewhere in America (5). 11.

Fit the cavity (4). 12. Looking for a chaser, having ordered a gin cocktail (9). 16. Believed to have been drunk (9). 20. Said the story is “The Shadow” (4). 22. Inclined to turn the man in: very good at that (5). 23. Snap “Try!” (4). 24. He won’t want to spend money on a sun bed! (4).

25. Disinclined to, being out of sorts (10).

DOWN 1. Seat the man inside (6). 2. Daily, going through the ring road, see the garden (7). 3. Standing about in the ship, anyhow, shrivel (6). 4. Strive to find a vein (6). 5. Provide with a close call (5). 7. Suddenly come out with a witticism (5). 13. Notice I have upset her (3). 14. Not long after the day of the rain (7). 15. Don’t let slip there’s a snag (5). 17. Joins one inside and exercises (6). 18. The newest is most unpunctual (6). 19. Eats up again and does get upset (6). 21. I can’t speak it but the French can! (5).

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 37

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Garden wedding EMILY Koenders and Harry Baker wed in the grand gardens of Mayfield Gallery at Arawata on November 21, 2010.

The gallery, owned by the bride’s parents Di and John, boasted hundreds of roses, water fountains and wandering peacocks for the spectacular spring wedding.

Harry is the son of Doreen and the late John Baker.

Emily arrived in a horse-drawn car-

riage, wearing a French renaissance style dress designed by Maggie Sottero with antique beading on the bodice, and carried soft champagne roses.

Reverend Steve Kasambalis officiated at the ceremony before the couple travelled by limousine to a stunning reception at Archies on the Creek.

Nikolina’s florists in Leongatha created magical floral arrangements for the wedding table, with orchids and roses.

The couple honeymooned in Tasmania before returning to reside at Fairbank.

Together at Fairbank: Emily Koenders and Harry Baker. Photo: Studio Reflections Photography.

Handy artwork NYORA Primary School students have made their own Koorie masterpiece.

Preps to Grade 6s made the wood burning artwork as part of a program run by Koorie education support officer John Murray.

The students spent a number of weeks learning about Koorie culture, country, history and art.

Every student got the chance to trace around their hand and decorate it on recycled wood.

The finished product has been put on display in the school grounds.

Wood burning project: Nyora Primary School captains, Nelli Noye and Jake Henry proudly show off their Koorie artwork.

Milpara Community House news KORUMBURRA Playgroup meets at Milpara Community House every Friday at 10am during school terms. Mums, dads, grandparents and carers are welcome to join in the fun, with lots of toys and activities for your pre-school children.

This is a great way to meet people and make new friends. On April 8 we will be holding a pyjama party and teddy bear picnic to celebrate the end of term. ****** If you have been out of the workforce for a while or would like to gain confidence and improve your communication skills, the Life Skills for Women course may help you. This new course will commence on Monday, May 2 and continues for six weeks. Top-

ics will include communication skills, building self esteem, assertiveness and stress management.

For further information telephone Milpara on 5655 2524. ****** If you would like to learn to read and write better, a new adult literacy program has started on Mondays at Milpara Community House. ****** We held another successful Newcomer’s Luncheon on Tuesday, March 29, with five new residents attending. If you are new to the area or know of somebody new to the area, our next Newcomer’s Luncheon is on Wednesday, June 15 at Milpara Community House, 21 Shellcott’s Road, Korumburra.

Please call Sandra or Belinda on 5655 2524 for a booking. ****** Volunteers are encouraged to actively participate in the management and activities at Milpara.

The co-ordinators will provide support, training and match skills with responsibilities. Volunteer opportunities exist in the areas of office administration, tutoring, playgroup, cooking for the Food Bank, gardening and committee of management. ****** We are taking expressions of interest to commence a gardening group in Korumburra. Please contact the co-ordinators if you are interested in attending or facilitating this type of group.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 39

People transform into art PROM Coast Arts Council Inc is pleased to present the sixth Great Southern Portrait Prize as a part of the 2011 Prom Coast Seachange Festival.

Prom Coast Arts Council acknowledges financial assistance from the South Gippsland Shire and generous sponsorship from local businesses. Prom Coast Seachange Festival has also assisted PCA. As with other years, all entries will be included in the exhibition which will be open for viewing at Stockyard Gallery, Foster from Thursday, April 7.

This year features an expanded children’s section, consisting of almost 100 portraits by local children, completed in a series of workshops in schools run by Prom Coast Arts Council specifically for the Great Southern Portrait Prize.

Prom Coast Arts Council is asking participating artists to write an artist’s statement, up to 50 words, about their portrait. The statements will be displayed during the exhibition.

The generous prize money of $1000 for first prize, $500 for second and people’s choice respectively in the open section has again attracted many entries of a high standard, as has the highly competitive junior section.

The independent judge’s decisions will be announced on Sunday, April 10, Stockyard Gallery at 2.30pm, along with the Windows on Foster sculpture prize announcement.

Following the prize announcements please join us at the Rhythm Café for a celebration and informal art forum at 3.30pm, where we will ponder some of the small and large questions about portraiture.

The exhibition will run at Stockyard until Tuesday, April 19. Don’t forget to take this opportunity to cast your vote for the people’s choice prize. Prizes will be publicised in local papers next week and the people’s choice at the conclusion of the Stockyard exhibition.

Following this exhibition a curated show will tour to the Latrobe Regional Art Gallery in Morwell in June, a great chance for local artists to have their work shown outside of the shire.

Judges this year are Maria Luisa Marino, Bill Young and Caroline Durre. Maria Luisa Marino’s art incorporates mixed media and forges connections with her cultural heritage.

She has had an artist residency and exhibited at Cowwarr Art Space and has exhibited at La Trobe Regional Gallery. Maria Luisa completed a Bach-

elor of Visual Art in 2006 at Monash University, Gippsland. She is currently assistant curator at Latrobe Regional Gallery.

Bill Young is a painter of many years exhibiting experience in Melbourne and regionally, he currently is artist in residence at Cowwarr Art Space and teaches at East Gippsland TAFE. Printing for other artists often leads to intensive collaborations with them in the printing process.

Caroline Durre’s work is difficult to describe but according to her website “uses symmetry, repetition and anamorphic perspective to reconfigure sourced imagery to realise a vision of distorted space”.

Caroline has an extensive CV going back to 1991, with numerous solo and group exhibitions, grants, awards and is represented in collections of a large list of organisations and individuals.

Mystery deep within A JOURNALIST come artist was well supported at the opening of his exhibition at Fish Creek’s Gecko Studio Gallery.

Barry Dicken’s Reflectionism - Eighty Ways to Adore Life was opened by his old friend from the former Sun News Pictorial, Graeme Johnson.

Barry started writing for the newspaper when Graeme commissioned him to write a story.

Graeme knows South Gippsland well, having grown up in Yarram, where he became editor of the Gippsland Standard before he and his wife Elsie, who taught at Yarram Primary School, married and moved to Melbourne.

The exhibition is a strong show with a wealth of detail for close viewing yet the images work well from a few metres back.

There are shades of grey, black and white with hints of faint colours and also a full-on riot of colour.

The works carry mysterious titles and lots of untold stories.

Quick sell: the Dream and Believe team’s Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal ball has sold out. The fundraiser put on by the group aims to raise $5000 or more to go to the appeal.

The group in charge is, from left: Sarah Broders, Rachel Cameron, Kelly McRae, Carly Alexander, Brianna Robb and Katrina Houston with their kids Morgan Broders, Jacoa Cameron, Indi Cameron, Ava McRae, Zac McRae, Bayleigh Cowell and Chance Houston.

Awe inspiring: From the Mountains to the Sea is an exciting exhibition at Archies on the Creek by friends, Margaret Lacey and Cynthia Phelan.

Opening this Sunday, April 10 at 2pm, guests and visitors can enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne with the artists.

The exhibition is open from 10.30am to 4pm from Wednesday to Sunday until April 25.

Considerable meaning: artist Barry Dickens and Comic Insomnia.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

South Gippsland Secondary College sports

Overall totals 1st Wilson-1642, 2nd Heathcote - 1604, 3rd Howard-1538, 4th Brooks-1117.

Age group champs Under 13 Boys Runner-up: Kobe McKenzie, 1st Eddie Smith.

Under 13 Girls Runner-up: Alex Braun-O’Neal, Kar, 1st Jade Thompson.

Under 14 Boys Runner-up: Jake Coffey and Jesse Clifton, 1st Bailey Harfield-Park.

Runner-up: Brittney Roffey, 1st Tayla Crabtree.

Under 15 Boys Runner-up: Jake Buckland and Liam Coffey, 1st Vince Ditta.

Under 15 Girls Runner-up: Kelly Laity, 1st Sally Stone-Schack.

Under 16 Boys Runner-up: Haydn Buckland, 1st Alastair Straw.

Under 16 Girls Runner-up: Abby Hendrie and Georgia Wake, 1st Khloe Kyne.

Under 17 Boys Runner-up: Rory Musinskas, 1st Lachie StoneSchack.

Under 17 Girls Runner-up: Donna Sparkes, 1st Riarnne Buckland.

Under 20 Boys Runner-up: Ryan Cumming, 1st Ryan Nicoll.

Under 20 Girls Runner-up: Claire Straw and Madie Barry, 1st Brittany McKenzie.

Towards the finish line: the Under 17 girls racing it out in the 400m event.

Left: Winners: Abbey Hendrie, Chloe Kyne and Keira Jacobson show off their ribbons after the U/16 girls 400m.

Below: Taking a breather: Claire Straw, Brittney McKenzie, Maddy Barry and Chantelle Noad after finishing the U/21 400m event.

Go green: Danae Smith, Zoi Banikos and Shona Smith got into the spirit for their house Brooks at the sports day.

Hop, skip, jump: Daniel Britton gets some air in the U/17 boys triple jump event.

Mary MacKillop house athletic sports IDEAL conditions prevailed for the annual house athletics sports at Mary MacKillop College in Leongatha last Thursday.

The four houses vied for the honours in track and field events.

Well done to Eleanor Paterson for breaking the college record in the high jump in the Under 15 girls section.

National Under 17 hammer throw champion, Patrick Ryan, gave a fine demonstration of his skills during the sports.

Big effort: these Year 12 students made a big effort for their house sports, from left, Beth Dortmans, Emily Smith and “Where’s Wally”, Jess Shea.

Hammer throw: Australian junior champion, Patrick Ryan, demonstrates the hammer throw.

True colours: these girls flew the flag for their houses, from left, Nicola Marriott (Green-McDonald), Jaclyn Smith (Red-Tennison), and Alice Lindsay (Yellow-Chisholm).

Cameron House: sporting ribbons for their house were, from left, Sarah Paterson, second in her Under 14,100 metres sprint, Adam Smith, winner of the Under 16, 100 metres, and Marcelle Brailsford, who collected several ribbons.

First across: gaining a first in the boy’s Under 13, 400 metres was Kaj Patterson.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 41

Showing their colours: Rebecca Riddiford, Tyla Riley, Ellie Age group champions: girls, Olivia Cope Lauren Goldie, Egan, Jemma Martin, and Hannah Thorson watch the action. Jennifer Johnson and Clair Jobling.

All smiles: Alicia Wiliamson, Evyln Lay and Kristina Wojciechowski enjoy the sports day.

Mittyak wins Leongatha house athletics BEAUTIFUL weather greeted athletes for the annual Leongatha Secondary College athletics sports last Thursday.

Mittyak was the winning house.

Long jump: Max Rounds takes a long leap.

Above: Age group champions: Toby Goss, Matt Harris, Adam Trotto, Liam Harrington and Tim Sauvarin.

Right: Having fun: Tim Sauvarin, Jack Vanderkolk, Tim Wilkinson, Jarrod Hoy, Zane Barnard and Jaxon Tiziani take a break.

Obstacles: some took the hurdles in their stride but others found them daunting. Meagan Woolley gave it her best for her house.

Up, up and away: Lachlan Wright launches in the discus.

Mittyak House captains: Tayla Kyle, Mitch Clark, Renee Moore, Max Rounds, Nicole Beatie and Jessica Casbolt with the winning shield.

Age group champions: runners-up in the girls, Cindalyn Reed, Tyler Ralph, Aimee Egan. Absent Renee Moore.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 43

Get a grip on industry awards FARMERS need to be aware of their responsibilities when hiring and retaining farm workers, including their obligations under the Pastoral Award 2010, according to Kondinin Group and BlandsLaw.

Report author Danica Leys of BlandsLaw said farmers need to familiarise themselves with concepts such as those dealt with in the 2010 Pastoral Award, the new Paid Parental Leave scheme and the Unfair Dismissal Small Business Code.

“Farmers probably don’t give much thought to the risk of industrial disputes within their business,” Ms Leys said.

“But with sowing about to get underway, now is a good time to review certain aspects of your farm’s employment terms and conditions to ensure an industrially-successful 2011.”

The Pastoral Award was created under the Fair Work Act and implemented at the start of 2010. All employers involved in broadacre, farming and livestock operations, pig breeding and raising, poultry farming and shearing operations must comply with the award.

“While fairly comprehensive, understanding the contents of this award is important,” Ms Leys said.

“For example, under the contents of this award if you ask an employee to perform work that would normally be classified as a ‘higher duty’ for more than two hours during a day or shift, then the employee is entitled to the higher minimum wage for the entire day or shift.”

Another common area of confusion is extra entitlements such as meal, travel and accommodation allowances, as well as special allowances.

“One of which is the allowance for the jetting or spraying of sheep,” Ms Leys said.

“Workers engaged in this work are entitled

Law respect: farmers are being urged to familiarise themselves with industrial law. to an additional 17 per cent of the ordinary daily rate.”

Another important farm industrial relations issue is whether farm workers are engaged as an employee, or an independent contractor.

“A farmer might think they have contracted the services of a farm worker only to find that the nature of the work and the manner in which it is carried out is more akin to an employeetype relationship,” Ms Leys said.

“Factors that distinguish a contractor from an employee, include whether they are being paid for the hours worked or the end result. Another important distinction is that a farmer has

complete control over how, when and where an employee’s work is to be carried out, whereas with a contractor this is not necessarily the case.

“The classification of a farm worker is important when it comes to determining considerations such as remuneration, entitlements and leave.”

Established during 1955, Kondinin Group is committed to helping farmers. With a large and diverse membership across Australia, Kondinin Group continues to invest in agriculture by providing members with independent, reliable and practical information.

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Photo competition

Close up: Benjamin Vagg of Leongatha South (left) and other tour participants inspect a rape crop.

LANDHOLDERS are invited to contribute photos for an exhibition at Fish Creek.

Digital photos on the theme of ‘Your changing rural landscape: past, present and future’ are needed.

Email or burn photos onto a CD and mail to Karen Thomas, DPI Frankston, PO Box 48, Frankston, 3199 or email: karen.thomas@dpi.vic.gov.au Closing date for entries is Wednesday, April 27. The exhibition will be held at an AgFutures event on May 4 at The Fishy Pub, Fish Creek.

Future of dairy on tour THIS year’s Don Campbell Memorial Tour took young dairy farmers to Paradise and beyond.

Paradise was one of the many towns visited by 14 young farmers, including four from South Gippsland,

during a recent week-long fact finding mission in northern Tasmania.

Organised by the Young Dairy Development Program, which is a program of GippsDairy, the tour offered young dairy farmers the chance to look at alternative methods of herd

development and farm management.

Don Campbell was a Yannathan dairy farmer and inaugural chair of GippsDairy who was killed in a vehicle accident in 1998.

At the time of his death, Don was organising a Tasmanian study tour, which was subsequently named in his honour.

YDDP organiser Kylie Barry said the tour was action packed, with everybody keen to learn as much as possible during their week away.

VLE LEONGATHA KOONWARRA

Sale Draw April 6 & 7 1. Elders 2. Alex Scott 3. Rodwells 4. Landmark 5. SEJ 6. David Phelan & Co

SALE DATES LEONGATHA Wednesday, April 6 Prime Sale - 8.30am Thursday, April 7 Store Sale - 10am

PAKENHAM Monday, April 11 Prime Sale - 8am Tuesday, April 12 Export Sale - 8.30am Thursday, April 14 Store Sale - 10am

“It was certainly no holiday,” she said.

“We all had a great time and enjoyed each other’s company, but we were focused on trying to add to our knowledge of dairying.”

Among the innovative farms they visited was a property at Yolla where farmers Alistair and Duncan McDonald drag a bluetoothenabled “sled” across the pasture, which feeds back information directly into his office computer.

“That was a real eyeopener,” she said.

“Rather than just estimating what pasture they have got, it is all at their fingertips, including a complete history of fertiliser and other inputs.”

The whirlwind tour of the region took in Elizabeth Town, Launceston, Burnie, Smithton, Mawbanna and, of course, Paradise.

“It was as beautiful as the name suggests,” Kylie said.

Leongatha South’s Benjamin Vagg said the tour gave him a fresh perspective on the dairy industry.

“It was good fun, it was very informative,” he said.

“It is uplifting to see a lot of young people from the industry.”

The La Trobe University agricultural science student enjoyed the chance to see farmers employing innovative methods to run their business.

“There were farmers there who had moved to biological farming methods, so it was interesting to find out what they were doing and why they were doing it,” he said.

Another farmer had built massive sheds to keep his cows out of the often bitter Tasmanian weather.

Benjamin thought it was an interesting idea, but not necessarily one he agreed with.

“I don’t think it was a bad move, but it was a brave move. But all the farmers knew their own farm business quite well,” he said.

Benjamin said young people in the dairy industry have opportunities to broaden their experience that older farmers often don’t have.

“I know a lot of farmers who would love to get out and see how others are doing things, but they are running their own businesses so they don’t have the time,” he said.

While the tour covered a lot of ground, there was still time for fun to be had among the group of young farmers.

“We really enjoyed the time together,” Kylie said.

“They started off as total strangers and by the end had become good friends.

I’d even say some life long friendships may have been formed along the way.”

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 45

• VLE LEONGATHA

Large offering sells quickly THE larger yarding of nearly 2000 cattle was over in less than four hours with all most buyers very keen to capture their share of the offering.

The yarding was of mixed quality, but there were a lot of good to very good quality young and grown cattle to assist in some high prices.

Overall, demand was very strong, and prices were mostly firm to 3c/kg dearer, although it is worthy to say that some averages were lower due to quality changes.

Of the 210 vealers penned most made from 225c to 267c/kg, selling at unchanged rates. In the yearling section of the sale, 40 steers and 140 heifers all sold very well with the steer portion making from 190c to 205c for plain grades, and up to 237c/kg for the best quality B muscle steers.

Heifer prices varied be-

tween 185c and 230c/kg with the lower prices reserved for plainer heifers, and dairy breeds.

Approximately 900 bullocks and grown steers were mostly of good to very good quality and weight. Although the very high prices of the previous week were not achieved, averages were unchanged. Prime C muscle bullocks made from 204c to 214.2c, averaging 209.6c/kg.

Sales of heavy yearling steers mouthed 0 to 2 teeth made from 200c to 220c/ kg. Crossbreds and Friesians made up the penning of 120 manufacturing bullocks, which made from 160c to 204c, averaging 192c/kg.

There were around 600 cows penned, and while a good number were quality beef and dairy cows, a lot were in plain one score condition.

Despite this, demand was very strong for all classes of cows, which gave a lift of 1c to 2c/kg over the sale. Better quality beef cows made from 165c to 182c, and some refattened Friesian cows made from 158c to 178.2c/kg.

Plain one score cows made mostly between 125c and 152c/kg. The carcass weight price average was estimated to be 336c/kg.

Bulls were up to 4c/kg dearer making from 178c to 198c/kg for heavy weights.

Wednesday, March 30 BULLOCKS 16 J. Forsyth, Thorpdale 24 Burrendah Past Co. Yanakie 14 E. Charlton, Kernot 12 Hidden Springs, Leongatha South 13 K.A. & J.E. McAlpine, Leongatha Sth 13 D.J. & D.A. Altson, Fish Creek

709kg 589kg 629kg 600kg 620kg 680kg

214.2 213.4 213.0 213.0 212.6 212.2

$1519.00 $1257.00 $1339.00 $1277.00 $1318.00 $1442.00

Savvy sowing tips THE summer season has been unusual and farmers planning to resow pastures will need to vary their techniques this year.

That is the view of Frank Mickan, state-wide pasture and fodder conservation specialist for the Department of Primary Industries.

“If you are planning to resow paddocks this season, here are 10 top tips,” he said.

• soil and air temperatures will be starting to cool down so get seed into the ground as soon as possible otherwise growth will be slow; • spray out paddocks before sowing. Weeds and remnant grasses can dramatically impact on the successful establishment of new crops and pasture. If over-sowing into existing pasture, graze very hard to reduce competition for the new seedlings; • ensure well-prepared seedbeds. This is necessary to ensure good seed-to-soil contact to improve germination rates. An even seedbed will also assist with trafficability and surface drainage; • seed treatment to control red-legged earth mite and blue oat mite should ensure protection for about four weeks. Lucerne flea is more common in Gippsland so might need to be monitored from germination onwards as seed treatments do not control it.

• sowing with a fertiliser such as DAP will assist with establishment and initial growth.

Avoid potassium-based fertilisers, these can burn the seed, or applying nitrogen above about 20 kg N/ha;

Simple advice: following Frank Mickan’s tips can make sowing successful this autumn.

• correct sowing depth is critical. Seeds rely on stored carbohydrates as energy until they germinate and become established. If seeds are sown too deeply they run out of steam before getting to the surface, resulting in poor vigour which allows weeds to get ahead. Sown too shallow, seeds/seedlings can dry out and die shortly after sowing; • roll paddocks after sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Some farmers drag a light set of pasture harrows, light mesh or even carpet to try to achieve good soil/seed contact. Many people frequently regret missing this step when they see the impact on subsequent germination, especially where wheels have travelled

over the seed bed after sowing; • if broadcasting seed, make sure seed and fertiliser are well mixed and used in one day; • monitor and treat postemergence weeds and pests.

The most effective time to treat weeds is four to six weeks after germination. At this time weeds are still small and can be killed more easily; and • monitor and treat postemergence pests. Check drill slots for slugs, red-legged earth mite or lucerne flea. These can wipe out newly germinating plants without you ever realising this has happened. A barrier spray around the perimeter might prevent infestation of the latter two pests from surrounding paddocks.

STEERS 1 S., C. & P. Calafiores, Mirboo North 1 B. Challis & S. Vagg, Mardan 1 W.G. & F.M. Pratt, Inverloch 1 V.R. Love, Boolarra South 1 A.C. Gibbon, Agnes 1 N.R. & L.J. Andrews, Mirboo North

335kg 360kg 365kg 335kg 370kg 310kg

266.6 265.6 261.6 260.6 260.0 259.6

$893.11 $956.16 $954.84 $873.01 $962.00 $804.76

COWS 1 H.P. & M.E. Stollery, Mirboo North 12 S.B. Walpole & Sons, Woolamai 3 T. & J. McRae, Buffalo 1 D.D. Slade, Woodside 8 Greenwald Past Co. Wonga Wonga Sth 4 B.M. & G.H. Missen, Woodside

505kg 600kg 703kg 564kg 599kg 592kg

181.6 180.0 179.6 180.0 178.6 178.6

$917.08 $1016.25 $1262.58 $1016.25 $1070.48 $1058.21

HEIFERS 2 W.G. & F.M. Pratt, Inverloch 2 J. & K. McDonald, Tarwin 1 A.C. Gibbon, Agnes 1 B. Challis & S. Vagg, Mardan 1 G.T. & C. Cummaudo, Mirboo Nth 1 R. & K. Bellingham, Dumbalk

382kg 377kg 350kg 400kg 360kg 340kg

263.6 $1008.27 258.6 $976.22 255.6 $894.60 255.6 $1022.40 255.0 $918.00 255.0 $867.00

BULLS 1 B.S. Cantwell Livestock, Toora 1 S., C. & P. Calafiores, Mirboo North 1 M. Berry, Wonthaggi 1 T.G. & J.E. Milne, Won Wron 1 A.M. & D.J. Zuidema, Yanakie 1 B.J. & G.A. Dakin, Glen Forbes

965kg 965kg 980kg 975kg 855kg 970kg

198.0 195.0 192.6 192.0 192.0 190.0

$1910.70 $1881.75 $1887.48 $1872.00 $1641.60 $1843.00

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Classifieds

Sell it in the "Star"

PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350

business opportunities

public notices

public notices

public notices

public notices

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Looking for a business partner to run a Take-away Restaurant.

South Asian Cuisine.

Experience preferred, not essential.

1. LARGE OPEN STEEL SHED

0421 837 751

VICTORIAN DESALINATION PROJECT COMMUNITY SITE TOURS TUESDAY 26 APRIL 2011 Come and see the site of Victoria’s new desalination plant and the construction progress that has been made to date.

Free bus tours will operate throughout the day from Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve.

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL, AS PLACES ARE LIMITED. Reserve your seat by calling 1800 811 214 or visit the Community Information Centre, 33–35 Murray Street, Wonthaggi.

A/c Leongatha Primary School 12m x 18m x 4.7 high

2. COLOURBOND SHED 4 Bays + Lock-up area 18m x 6m x 2.4 high Purchaser is to dismantle and remove EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSE 15.04.11 More details and photos contact Damien Minogue 0427 507 369

FORM B SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT An Application for Planning Permit has been made which may affect you The land affected by the application is: 400 Stony Creek Dollar Road, Stony Creek VIC 3957 being L2 PS606605M Parish of Dumbalk.

The application is for a permit to: Use and development of the land for broiler farm (maximum 400,000 birds at any one time), associated buildings and works and an associated caretaker's house.

The applicant for the permit is: P. Hanrahan.

The application reference number is: 2011/46.

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority. This can be done during office hours (8.30am to 5pm) and is free of charge.

The responsible authority is: South Gippsland Shire Council Private Bag 4 9 Smith Street, Leongatha 3953 Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. If you object, the responsible authority will tell you its decision.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application until 14 days after the date of this Notice.

Dated: 5/4/2011. * Please be aware that copies of submissions received

by Council may be made available for inspection to any person for the purpose of consideration as part of the planning process.

public notices

MARDAN FAMILY DANCE

public notices MARDAN Annual Hall Meeting, Tuesday, April 12, 8pm. All welcome.

Music by Rhonda Richards A plate of supper please

OLIVE WARNER will be 90 years old on April 6, 2011.

We will be having dinner from 6-7pm on Thursday, April 7 at Bair’s Hotel - so if you haven’t seen Olive for a while and would like to wish her Happy Birthday feel free to drop in. Kindly note that Olive may not hear or see you as well as she did.

How to start your

CHIROPRACTOR

Mardan Hall Saturday, April 16 Commencing 8pm

FAMILY HISTORY

Saturday, April 9 1-4pm

FREE Mechanic’s Institute Leongatha Bookings: Alison 5668 1860 or Margaret 0422 728 379 South Gippsland Family History Society

Garry Harrison 19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday By appointment Ph: 5674 8290

Proudly sponsored by LANDMARK - LEONGATHA

GIPPSLAND CAMPDRAFTING ASSOCIATION

2011 CHAMPIONSHIPS Saturday, April 9, 2011 Sale Polocrosse Grounds 8.30am - 5pm Free Entry / Refreshments available Seating and viewing area Come and see the very best of Gippsland’s Campdrafting combinations in action at Sale

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 47

public notices

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

2 POSITIONS to start ASAP

LEONGATHA FOOTBALL CLUB JUMPER PRESENTATION This Thursday night Happy hour 6-7pm

TRIBUTE NIGHT for Paul LePage This Saturday night 6.30pm $25 per head - includes 2 course meal All welcome

public notices

MOTORCYCLE MAIL DELIVERY IN LEONGATHA TOWNSHIP 8am start 5 days a fortnight MUST have current motorbike licence and pass Aust Post Police check Written applications to: “Mail Delivery” 17 Bellingham Street Leongatha 3953

By Friday, April 8, 2011

public notices

Burra Sheetmetal Pty Ltd, a part of the world leading air movement specialists Elta Group Asia Pacific, requires the services of a Factory assembler in our busy and growing Korumburra workshop.

This position is 40 hours per week with overtime consistently available.

The successful applicant will need to have the ability to work as part of a team, be able to understand production drawings and prove to be reliable. Experience in Sheetmetal would be an advantage but not essential as training will be provided. For the successful candidate this will be an exciting and rewarding career opportunity.

Written applications close 08/04/11 Burra Sheetmetal Pty Ltd Ph: 5658 1030 P.O. Box 111 Korumburra 3950

situations vacant

situations vacant

TRUCK DRIVER MC LICENCE Must be experienced MIRBOO NORTH TO MELBOURNE Phone 0408 515 243 or 5668 4256 Cummaudo Farms Mirboo North

CHEF / EXPERIENCED COOK Needed for busy Inverloch cafe FULL TIME POSITION Creative menu, great working environment and staff Contact Kate 0400 498 804

situations vacant

BRICKLAYER required, full-time work in Gippsland area. Ph: 0408-513664 or 0409-270500.

PROMINENT Jewellery Company looking for demonstrators to start immediately.

Huge potential. bpp@live.com.au

TUTOR - Personal tutor required for VCE and Yr 10 student, English / Maths.

Would consider gap year student. Contact 0418640080.

South Gippsland Shire Council

Corporate Information Management Officer Casual - $29.72 per hour We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Information Management Officer to join our Information Management team during peak times and coverage of leave.

We are pleased and excited to advise that our beauty Room here at Terry White Chemists Leongatha has re-opened.

Re-opening specials - available between today and April 30, 2011 1. Every Full leg wax will receive a free eyelash tint valued at $18 2. 30 minute facial for only $30 For appointments call the Chemist on 5662 2183 or call into the store to collect a new pamphlet outlining the services now available within our beauty room.

100 Years of Scots Pioneer Church - Mardan South

100 Years of Pleasant Sunday Afternoons Ecumenical - Open to all

Sunday, April 3 - 2pm Celebrate with: John Murphy as he discusses the history of it all

Celebrate with: Musicians Sue MacLeod, Russell Hemming and Lionel Boxer

HEAD CHEF Bass Coast Regional Health wishes to appoint an experienced Head Chef to manage the catering for their inpatients, aged care residents, staff and MealsOn-Wheels clients.

The successful applicant will have Trade Cook Qualifications, substantial supervisory experience in the Health industry and current Food Safety Supervisor Accreditation.

The duties would include hands on food production and supervising of Food Service Staff to ensure a high standard of nutritional care and standardisation for consumers. The Head Chef would need to demonstrate skills in interpersonal relationships, leadership, working within budget, decision making and the ability to motivate others as individuals and part of a team.

A working knowledge of the cook/chill technology would be an advantage.

Salary will be under the Health and Allied Services Award, Food Services Supervisor, 40 hours per week with ADOs, weekend work and eight hour shifts. A current Police Check is required.

Applications including two referees should be forwarded to: Tracey Bugbird Food Service Manager PO Box 120 Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Two referees Applications close Friday, April 15, 2011

SITUATIONS VACANT

Followed by afternoon tea EVERYONE WELCOME

personal $ 70

$

70

hallam

pca 4609b

penthouse make us your 1st stop

9702 4744 7 rimfire dr. hallam

situations vacant

You will have experience in office administration or similar, well developed written and oral communication skills and experience in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

A year 12 qualification or equivalent and the flexibility to work across Monday to Friday, along with a current Driver’s Licence are essential for this role.

We welcome direct discussion with David Robinson, Information Management Coordinator on (03) 5662 9200 regarding this role.

Applications addressing the selection criteria are to be submitted by 5pm Wednesday 20th April 2011 addressed to: Human Resources, South Gippsland Shire Council, Private Bag 4, Leongatha 3953 or emailed to careers@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Further information and a position description is available from Human Resources or visit www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

South Gippsland Shire Council

Mechanic Permanent Full Time $53k total salary package (including super) Council is seeking a suitably experienced Mechanic to join our Operations Department based at the Leongatha depot. As a member of the workshop team, you will have responsibility for safe and competent maintenance and repairs to Council’s heavy plant, trucks and small equipment.

You will need to have experience in diesel engines, hydraulic systems and general maintenance and repairs to heavy plant. You will also be required to perform other labouring and workshop duties as directed. You must have well developed written and verbal communication skills; and the ability to work as part of a team.

A current driver’s licence and a commitment to obtain a Heavy Rigid Driver’s Licence, along with a Certificate in Motor Mechanics are an essential requirement of the role.

personal day time special

You will be responsible for providing Information Management services to South Gippsland Shire Council staff, by the processing of inwards / outwards correspondence, assisting staff with information management enquiries and file creation / archive services.

situations vacant

the Foreshore bar & restaurant Rhyll (Phillip Island) Looking for a chef’s apprenticeship

FULL TIME APPRENTICE REQUIRED 2nd or 3rd year preferred Keen 1st years would be considered Would you like to be part of a great team?

Offering the best in food & Service Our Current Apprentice won apprentice of the year 2 years running So if you are keen to become a great chef Contact Anthony on 5956 9520

This position is subject to a satisfactory pre-employment medical assessment.

We welcome direct discussion with Fred Huitema, Manager Operations, on (03) 5662 9200.

Building a Healthy Community

BEST START COMMUNITY FACILITATOR BASS COAST & SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRES 0.8 EFT OR BY NEGOTIATION SALARY RANGE $57,928 - $61,079 (PRO RATA) DEPENDING ON QUALIFICATIONS. SALARY PACKAGING AND ACCESS TO FLEET VEHICLE AVAILABLE BCCHS seeks expressions of interest for the employment of an enthusiastic and experienced Community Facilitator for the South Coast Best Start program, to assist and support communities, parents and service providers in the Bass Coast and South Gippsland municipalities to improve universal early year’s services so they are responsive to local needs.

Remuneration for this position as per Social and Community Services Award, Community Development Worker Class 3.

Enquiries to Louk Thiele, Co-ordinator Child, Youth & Family Services Team. To obtain a position description and an employment application form, please telephone reception on 5671 9200 or refer to our website: www. bcchs.com.au Applications close 5 pm Friday, April 29, 2011 and should be addressed to: HR Administrator Bass Coast Community Health Service 1 Back Beach Road, San Remo 3925 Or by email to: HR@bcchs.com.au

Manager Children & Family Services Exciting Leadership Role Opportunity to use your extensive contemporary early years practice $91k total salary package including vehicle South Gippsland is one of Victoria’s most beautiful rural and coastal areas, yet is only 90 minutes from Melbourne. Vibrant communities and economic opportunity form a strong base for Council’s vision of sustainable social, natural and built environments.

Reporting to the Director Community Services, your primary focus will be to provide leadership and management to our Children and Family Services team.

You will bring your proven record of high performance and professional knowledge in managing children’s services, leading and planning Early Childhood Development Programs along with a demonstrated understanding of relevant legislation and current government directions for the provisions of Early Childhood learning.

You will have a degree and/or post graduate qualification in Early Childhood Education and Development and be able to demonstrate previous experience in financial and business planning to meet organisational and funding objectives.

You will possess excellent communication skills and utilise a consultative approach that is inclusive of staff and open to innovation and change. You will also have the ability to develop and sustain excellent working relationships in order to lead and motivate a dedicated team.

We welcome direct discussion with Jan Martin, Director Community Services, on (03) 5662 9200.

Applications addressing the selection criteria are to be submitted by 5pm Wednesday 13 April 2011 to: Human Resources, South Gippsland Shire Council, Private Bag 4, Leongatha 3953 or email careers@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Further information and position descriptions are available from Human Resources or visit www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

PAGE 48 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

situations vacant

situations vacant

CARPENTER: Apply today, start asap!

An opportunity exists for a qualified carpenter to join a local building company based in the Leongatha area to construct residential houses and light Commercial work in the South Gippsland area.

We can offer you a stable and challenging working environment in the residential housing and commercial sector.

The successful applicant is required to: â&#x20AC;˘ Have excellent communication and organisational skills. â&#x20AC;˘ Be motivated, enthusiastic and punctual. â&#x20AC;˘ Have a high attention for detail and the ability to work unsupervised. â&#x20AC;˘ Work in a team environment. â&#x20AC;˘ Ability to supervise an apprentice. â&#x20AC;˘ Own ABN, current white card. â&#x20AC;˘ Current driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s licence, reliable vehicle and tools.

Please forward your application to: Situations Vacant C/o PO Box 28, Leongatha, Vic. 3953

by May 2, 2011

situations vacant

situations vacant

DENTAL NURSE - Full Time position Trainee / QualiďŹ ed An opportunity exists to join the team at South Gippsland Dental Our team is dedicated to excellence in all areas of dentistry. Applicants need to be enthusiastic, well presented with a caring nature and willing to learn.

Computer experience required.

If you possess these qualities please apply in writing to: Dr Taehee Lee ANZ Arcade, 32-34 Bair Street Leongatha VIC 3953

LOCAL AND INTERSTATE DRIVER FULL TIME MUST have MC licence and safe driving record.

Join the award-winning team at Ryans Transport and enjoy the great working conditions and family atmosphere.

Call Tom on 0409 613 664

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

Community Relations Coordinator [Full time] South Gippsland Water invites applications for the position of Community Relations Co-ordinator located in our Foster OfďŹ ce.

We seek an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who is able to work well in a team environment. The position requires excellent organisational and computer skills, and the applicant will have some experience in public relations or community engagement. A high standard of written and verbal communication skills are essential to this position.

The applicant will be able to deliver a range of programs and events including South Gippsland Waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community engagement and education programs.

Salary package is band 6; Ranging between $56,222.40 - $60,547.76 A Position Description and other details can be found on our website www.sgwater.com.au Applications close on April 22nd 2011, are to include a cover letter and resume, and should be addressed to HR Coordinator, South Gippsland Water, P.O. Box 102, Foster Vic. 3960.

Regional Planner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gippsland CAREER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY One of South Gippslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest independent Supermarket retailers is offering a career opportunity for those looking to get an apprenticeship. Position would suit fresh out of school students with a desire to gain a trade or a mature age adult looking for alternative employment and at the same time further their knowledge and qualifications in Food Retail.

We are seeking applicants interested in joining our team of in-house butchers and learning the art of butchering. Successful applicants will undergo a fully accredited apprenticeship over a 4 year period learning skills that will last a lifetime.

Applicants must be able to work in a team orientated environment and have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;can doâ&#x20AC;? attitude. They must be able to work flexible weekday hours and weekend work will also be a requirement. This position is open to all age groups and salary can be negotiable depending on age, experience and individual circumstances.

Written applications can be sent: Attention: Domenic Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Agostino Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IGA Stores PO Box 200 Moorabbin Vic. 3189 Applications close 24/4/2011

.

%!)' ')% & . )!! ( " , ( &" %& ! ($ %& ! . $ ( # & & ! $# + ( $%%$&()# ( ' # $# ( Are you a highly motivated person looking to join a professional planning team that provides quality advice in relation to best practice approaches to strategic / statutory land use planning?

Do you have experience in statutory and/or strategic land use planning? Are your verbal and written communication skills well developed? If so, this may be the role for youâ&#x20AC;Ś The DPCD Gippsland Planning and Development team delivers a range of urban and regional planning, environmental, urban design and heritage related services for State Government.

EXPERIENCED SANDBLASTER & PAINTER REQUIRED

The team is part of DPCDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Regional Services Division which services and works in the three metropolitan and five non-metropolitan regions across Victoria. The Division sits within DPCDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Development Group and provides locally responsive functions and services for program and policy areas across DPCD.

$ %%!- # '' ( %$' ( $# ' & %( $# * ' (

www.careers.vic.gov.au

For an interview please ring 5662 2639 between hours 8am to 3.30pm Monday - Friday.

# & & ($ %$' ( $# #)" & %%! ( $#' !$' )# - %& !

ZO150572 Fast Art 130834_v3

DAIRY FARM HAND PART TIME

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER Opportunity to make a Sea Change We are a family owned company operating two Gippsland based outlets in the fresh meat conversion, export and domestic markets. The environment is exciting and challenging requiring a wide range of financial, documentary and operational compliance.

The Financial Controller is a key member of a tight knit management team who all contribute to the successful performance of the company in operational and financial terms.

What we are seeking: A person confident in their own capabilities, who is able to: â&#x20AC;˘ Lead and manage a team of 6 people â&#x20AC;˘ Produce monthly management reports â&#x20AC;˘ Prepare and lodge BAS statements monthly â&#x20AC;˘ Provide reconciled general ledgers to external accountants each quarter â&#x20AC;˘ Forecast and manage cash flow requirements Qualifications and experience: A qualified accountant (CPA/CA/NIA) Industry experience an advantage but not essential Strong staff management abilities Confidence and capability to contribute effectively to the operational management of the company What we are offering: A competitive salary package commensurate with the positionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibilities is negotiable.

Location close to Inverloch on Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South Gippsland coast.

Support during a 3-month induction period.

Please submit applications to: Mr. T (Ted) Brorsen Managing Director Tabro Meat Pty Ltd 2140 Korumburra-Wonthaggi Road WONTHAGGI VIC 3995 Telephone: (03) 5674 9300 or email to lorraine@tabro.com.au Applications close April 29, 2011

Due to changed seasonal conditions an additional person who enjoys working with animals is required for 1 milking per day and general farm work, tractor driving, etc.

A safe, well maintained workplace for an honest, reliable, literate and fit person.

Paid weekly by the hour.

Punctuality and reliable transport essential.

KOONWARRA AREA

Phone 0438 745 593

MOTOR MECHANIC APPRENTICE Edney's of Leongatha is seeking a 1st year apprentice mechanic to join its expanding Nissan/Hyundai dealership. The successful applicant will be given the latest dealership training throughout their employment while working in a friendly, modern environment.

You will also have the opportunity to expand your skills with RACV road service.

Currently employed apprentices will be considered.

Forward handwritten applications to: Edneys Leongatha Attention: Nick McRae PO Box 72, Leongatha 3953 Applications close Friday, April 29

agistment

FOR LEASE â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408-980711, A/H 5662-5175

Approx 315 ac (127 ha) Excellent pasture Road frontage Dumbalk North/Milford Term: 1 year + 3 years Possession: May 10 Tenders in writing by April 29, 2011 Shaun Cross 0419 114 535

AGISTMENT available 5060 head, close to Leongatha and Korumburra. 56622074.

for rent VENUS BAY - house, short stroll to beach and shops, sleeps 7. Permanent rental also available. Contact: 0408-320001.

WILD DOG VALLEY 3 bdrm farmhouse, wood heater, peaceful location, 20 min from Leongatha, non-smokers, no pets.

5668-9269 after 6pm.

house to share

Email your stories editorial@thestar.com.au

for sale DEB DRESS, size 8. Ph: 5664-2219.

MATURE, clean person looking for house sit. Enjoys gardening and caring for animals. Contact Sandy 0428-642304.

GENERATOR 2500W, never used. $400. H.W.S. Bosch 13H instantaneous natural gas $350. Hi-bay shed lights (2) $50 each.

Traralgon 0488-747-677 HAY RINGS - $400, hay feeder / calves - $300, and a diesel tank on stand 400lt approx. Ph 0408-131-485 HAY - top quality, $7 per bale. Can deliver. Ph: 0419313483.

HAY - 5x4 round bales, good quality, South Gippsland area, $40 per bale. 0419-518351.

HAY - small square bales, new seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, $8 each.

Fully shedded, suitable for horses, never been wet. Quality guaranteed.

Mardan - 5664-1320, 0428999691.

HEN HOUSES / AVIARIES Large or small, made locally. Ring Denis 56642443.

for sale

LAYER PULLETS Quality disease resistant Tas White and Tas Splash, 320 eggs per year.

Available now. 5668-5161, 0438-565721.

LUCERNE Hay, The Ridge Lucerne Co., 8x4x3, A1 quality. Ph 0448-441-952, Rosedale.

MOVING SALE All items going cheaply: includes washer, dryer, fridge, table and chairs, many miscellaneous.

Excellent condition. Must sell this week. 5664-4469.

70 OAT and silage rolls, $40 per bale plus GST. Ph: 0438-056987.

ON-SITE 28ft caravan, Shallow Inlet, Yanakie.

Huge annex, air/con, sleeps 7 plus. Dogs, fires permitted, great fishing. $20,000. Ph: 0417-325781.

SILAGE $44 inc. GST, Fish Creek. Ph: 5678-3278 or 0418-128-708.

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each.

Free delivery for pack lots.

Phone Joe 0417-530662.

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 49

for sale

for sale

ADVANCED TREE SALE 10AM SATURDAY, APRIL 23 BASS, VICTORIA PREVIEW FROM 8AM ON DAY

birthdays Happy 50th Birthday to Jill Davies on April 9

347 McKenzie Rd Bass Cnr McGrath Rd (off Bass Hwy)

Exotics and Natives 1.5, 26, 50 and 100 Lt ARP pots, 50 Lt 2-3m 100 Lt 3 - 4m Lipstick Maples, Birch, Golden, Claret & Pennsylvanian Ash, Gleditsia Lime Gold & Shade Master, Golden Robinia, Native Frangipani, Eucs, Cercis, Crepe Myrtles, Liquidamber, Crab Apples, Poplar, Wattle, Ornamental Pears, Chinese Elms etc.

Full details and list www.rivett.biz or E: cps@rivett.biz Plant pick-up after 12 noon Sunday/Monday April 24/25 - OH&S regs.

VACUUM CLEANER Repairs

DUST BAGS

Sales

FREE

Love Mum and Dad, Rob, Jess, Rebecca and Jarrod

marriage celebrant MERLENE STRATTON Leongatha 5662 2574

Jenny Milkins All areas - 5672 3123 jenny_milkins@hotmail.com

CAM ABOOD

garage sales

for sale

QUOTES

WONTHAGGI SEWING CENTRE 167 Graham Street, Wonthaggi (opp. Ritchies IGA)

5672 3127

free

Garage Sale 30 Young Street Leongatha Saturday, April 9

House has been sold EVERYTHING MUST GO No reasonable offer refused

8.30am

FREE Pick-up and delivery in Leongatha/Meeniyan areas for MOTOR MOWERS,

CHAINSAWS AND STATIONARY ENGINES ETC. Repairs and services

Phone JOHN GOULD 5664 0012

garage sales

No early birds LEONGATHA: 87 Horn Street, Saturday and Sunday 9th and 10th. Ass household items and brica-brac, 60’s buffet and cupboard. Not before 8am.

used motorcycles HONDA Goldwing, 1983, excellent order, RWC and reg. SK581, $6,000. Ph: 0419-313483.

GARAGE SALE / CLEARING SALE

used vehicles

Children’s clothes and toys, collectables, horse gear, old records, etc.

Will pay up to $300 for complete car Buyers of scrap metal

Saturday, April 9 585 Canavans Road Mt Eccles South 9am start

GARAGE SALE The “STAR” can help you promote your event with our

GARAGE SALE KIT KIT INCLUDES 5cm x S/C advert (valued at $31.90)

$25

• 2 x A4 Garage Sale Signs • Marker Pen • Garage Sale Tips (dos and don’ts) • Sheet of Price Stickers • Star Carry Bag

Total package valued at $39 ADVERTISE by calling 5662 5555 or emailing classifieds@thestar.com.au or call in to 36 McCartin Street LEONGATHA to pick up your kit when you place your advertisement

FREE CAR REMOVAL All machinery Bins provided

Bass Coast Metal Recyclers 5672 2946 0417 556 593 FALCON 2003 SE ute with canopy, tinted glass, alloy wheels, $9000 neg.

SFY159. Ph 0428-646523.

Leongatha 5662 4191

births DEERING (Wilson) Thank you Jacki and Paul for another precious grandchild to spoil.

We welcome Thomas with love. Peter and Maureen Wilson xx.

in memoriam APPLEYARD - Lindsay Gordon. 29.3.94 A wonderful and loving husband, father and grandpa. You will always be loved and remembered by those who knew you. A very special person.

Love Dianne and family.

BOWTELL - Barbara.

2.4.2004 Your ideals, love, kindness, compassion and generosity continue to inspire us.

Always in our thoughts, loved and remembered by us all.

Keith, Pat, Mark, Brett, Wayne, Lisa and Ruby.

SAUVARIN - John.

19.8.54 - 8.4.06 Still missing you five years on.

Barb, Matt, Krystal and Adele.

SMITH - Irvine.

4.4.09 We miss you every day, always in our thoughts.

Love always from Leila, Rob, Cas, Rosie, Ebony and Alice.

deaths

MATTHEWS - Gordon William.

On Tuesday, March 29, 2011 Peacefully at home.

Loved and loving husband of Hilda, caring father and father-in-law of John, Ross and Robyn, Linda and Craig, friend of Arlene.

Proud grandfather ‘Ninga’ of Amy and Emma, Sophie, Emily and Nathan.

His handy-man talents, love of a joke, dancing and music will be with us forever.

We thank Dr Daisy Mak, doctors, nurses and staff at Peter Mac, also Dr Stan and district nurses at Wonthaggi for their compassionate care of Gordon throughout his illness.

work wanted FULLY Qualified Painter.

No job too small. Good rates. Call Drew on 56624238 or 0418-517443.

message of hope GRACE and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

2 Peter 1:2.

The MDU Cricket Club held their senior presentation day at Carino’s Restaurant in Leongatha on Sunday, March 27.

Life membership: Craig Hoober congratulates team-mate Mark Cantwell on his appointment as a life member to the MDU Cricket Club.

Privately cremated.

MATTHEWS - Gordon.

An active member of the Koonwarra Hall Committee.

Will be sadly missed by the committee and the Koonwarra dancers.

Our sympathy goes out to his wife Hilda and their family.

TAYLOR - Mercia Isobell.

1921 - 2011 Passed away peacefully at North Haven, Kerang April 4, 2011 in her 90th year.

Late of Meeniyan and Cohuna.

Devoted wife of Len (dec.).

Dearly loved and loving mum of Marilyn and John Mackie, Rodney (dec.) and Margaret Taylor, Robyn and Geoff Pearson, Bronwyn and John Glenn.

Loved Nan to her grandchildren and Old Nan to her great grandchildren.

Mum and Dad reunited.

Best clubman: young Matt Olden was awarded as the season’s best clubperson. He is congratulated

by Steve Riley, who was later awarded a plaque for playing 300 club games.

Cherished memories.

TAYLOR - Mercia.

Loving mum of Rodney (dec.) and Margaret, loved nan of Paul and Kate, Joanne and Mark, Guy and Donna. Loved great nan of seven.

Special posies, raspberry tarts, talks of footy and yesterdays, we will miss our lovely nan.

A Grade award winners: Steve Arnup, Craig Hoober, Mark Cantwell, Cam Harris.

Together again with Pa and Rod.

deaths

MAGNA 91, red, auto, 4 cyl.

Reg to 23.4.11 RNU146, $600. Ph: 0419-001636.

MAZDA 3 Maxx Sports sedan, 2005, green, manual, removable sports roof-rack, roadworthy certificate, fantastic car, $14,000 ONO, TOG834, 0438-644220.

MDU celebrates season

Kim, John, Anna, Glyn and James.

AUCTION & ½ PRICE SALE AUCTION: Surplus, End of Line, Farm Grade, ½ PRICE: First Quality Grade on general selected lines

deaths CHILVERS - Ron Francis.

30.3.2011 Will be greatly missed, and thought of every day.

We know you’re still with us, looking over the family.

Forever thinking of you,

All square: equal best and fairest winners Dave Tuckett and Greg Jones.

WITH CARE & DIGNITY WE RESPECTFULLY SERVE THE DISTRICTS OF: LEONGATHA / KORUMBURRA Paul and Margaret Beck

5662 2717

FOSTER Paul and Margaret Beck

5662 2717

WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH Ray and Maree Anderson

5672 1074

PHILLIP ISLAND Ray and Maree Anderson

5952 5171

MEMBERS OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8267 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Charles-ton. 8, Draw (rev.). 9, Tosh (anag.).

10, I’d-a-ho. 11, Well. 12, Search-ing. 16, Swallowed. 20, Tail (tale). 22, A-dE-pt. 23, Shot. 24, S-cot. 25, Indisposed.

Down - 1, Th-Ron-e. 2, O-R-char-d. 3, P-er-ish. 4, Strain.

5, End-ow. 7, Sally. 13, I-DA (rev.). 14, Mon-soon. 15, Catch. 17, W-I-elds. 18, Latest. 19, Er-odes. 21, La-tin.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8267 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Outlandish. 8, Unit. 9, Scan. 10, Pilot. 11, Elan.

12, Celebrity. 16, Denigrate. 20, Alas. 22, Crisp. 23, Garb.

24, Veto. 25, Pomeranian.

Down - 1, Muscle. 2, Plunder. 3, Sniper. 4, Fillet. 5, Chute.

7, Divan. 13, Inn 14, Brigand. 15, Sleek. 17, Enigma. 18, Impure. 19, Threat. 21, Scope.

The event was highly successful and well attended, with the highlight being the awarding of a Life Membership to the highly respected long serving club stalwart Mark Cantwell.

Mark has played over 250 senior games with the club and has won many individual club awards, including six senior bowling averages and five cricketer of the year trophies as an opening bowler and middle order batsman.

Mark is held in very high regard by both his team-mates and the opposition players and is known for always playing the game in the spirit of cricket.

As well as his on field performances he has been a tireless worker off-field, having served on the committee for over 15 years and having always done his bit and more to ensure the successful running of the club off the field.

The other major awards given out on the day were a 300 game plaque to Stephen Riley who is the first player to reach this milestone with the club and the Best Clubperson award which went to Matthew Olden.

Matt has taken on many a job and responsibility this year which at such a young age is a credit to him.

Based on this he looks likely to one day follow in the footsteps of his father who is currently the president of the club.

With our B Grade and Under 16’s sides making the finals this season we are looking forward to more on field success next season, with an excellent group of young cricketers coming through the ranks.

With player numbers very good for this season we are also seriously looking at putting in a fourth side next season.

In the off season the club’s main priorities will be player recruitment and doing up our existing rooms at Meeniyan.

Award winners for the day were as follows: A Grade: Batting average Steve Arnup. Batting aggregate Craig Hoober. Bowling average Mark Cantwell.

Bowling aggregate Cam Harris. Cricketer of the Year Mark Cantwell.

B Grade: Batting average and aggregate Dean Jones. Bowling aggregate Matt Olden and Luke Mercer. Cricketer of the Year Luke Mercer. Captain’s trophy Matt Olden.

C Grade: Batting average and aggregate Greg Jones.

Bowling average Dave Tuckett. Bowling aggregate Keiran Brown. Cricketer of the Year Greg Jones. Captain’s trophy Jake Opray.

Other awards: Life Membership Mark Cantwell.

Best Clubperson Matthew Olden. Club Best and Fairest award Greg Jones and Dave Tuckett . Club Most Improved Cam Harris.

Award winners for the Under 16s were: Ryan Olden Batting Average, Josh Brown Bowling Average, Coach’s award Kurt Sinclair, Most Improved Tom Hanrahan, Cam Harris achievement award.

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

McDonald wins again IT must be true what they say, red must go faster because McDonald (red house) took out the Korumburra secondary college house sports.

Age champions for the boys on the day were Hugh Suckling (U/13), Kurt Cosson (U/14), Brock Dorling (U/15), Paul Pattison (U/16), Kyle Arestia (U/17) and Michael Larcombe (U/21) and the girls

were Nyree Raabe (U/13), Caroline Crawford (U/14), Ashleigh Honan (U/15), Abbe Moriarty (U/16), Teagan Brammar (U/17) and Tarli Hillberg (U/21).

Nothing in it: it was a close race between Eldon Westaway and Liam Gourlay.

Johnston wins out JOHNSTON (red house) managed to get the better of the other houses at the Leongatha Primary School house sports.

Ladies in red: Shelby Arestia and Katie Trani dressed up to support McDonald (red).

Because the sports were held at a new

venue the old records had been cleared so all winners on the day set records.

The students pushed extra hard to keep their names in the record books as long as possible.

Star sport: Zac Caughey shows off his ribbons straight after winning the 800m.

Great mates: they may have been on opposing teams, but Aiden Vaungartner and Hamish Beecroft were still happy to pose for a photograph at the Leongatha Primary School sports day on Friday.

Above: Winners are grinners: Jasper Macri and Hayden Smith showing off the blue ribbons.

Left: Green with envy: Emma Reeves, Shayla Rigby, Rebecca Norris and Jade Falcone get green to support their house.

Below: High energy: The competition was close in the relays.

Red hot favourites: McDonald (Red) came out on top for the day, with house captains Rebecca Appleton and Kyle Arestia showing off the cup and shield.

Happy faces: Leongatha Primary School students enjoyed a great day of competition and sunshine at the school’s sports day on Friday.

Leongatha Secondary College Athletics carnival March 31 Champions and runners-up

13 year female - Felicity Warren, Mikaela Cornelissen (JOA).

13 year male - Timothy Sauvarin (JOA), Gareth Park (MIT).

14 year female - Claire Jobling), Tyler Ralph (MUN).

14 year male - Liam Harrington (MUN), Caleb Stone (MIT).

15 year female - Olivia Cope, Cindallyn Reed (JOA).

15 year male - Dean Petersen (MIT), Ben Rosser (JOA).

16 year female - Tayla Stahl, Amy Egan (MUN).

16 year male - Adam Trotto (JOA), Samual Wilson (MIT).

17 year female - Lauren Goldine (JOA), Kate Ball (MIT).

17 year male - Toby

Goss, Lachlan Findlay (KIN).

20 year female - Jennifer Johnson (MIT), Renae Moore (MIT).

20 year male - Matthew Harris (KIN), Mitchell Elliott, Callum Hetcheson (MUN).

Records 13 year female high jump: Gemma Martin (MIT), 1.45. Old record 1.4.

14 year female high jump: Claire G. Jobling, 1.53. Old record 1.52.

20 year female hugh jump: Sophie M. Bolge (JOA) 1.50. Old record 1.5.

17 year male long jump: Toby M. Goss (KIN) 5.96.

Old record 5.66.

Ribbon collection: displaying their ribbons are, from left, Serena Cope, Gemma Martin who broke a high jump record and Olivia Cope.

Team scores Mittyak ................................924.5 Joatoba ...............................898.5 Mundara ..............................717.0 Kindyerra ...........................702.0

Most laps: Kate Ball ran hard all day as she strides to the line in the 800 metre event.

800 metres: Lachie Findlay pushes to the line in the 17 boys, 800 metre event.

Colourful supporters: showing their support for their houses were, from left, Emilie Hayes (Joatoba), Jesseme Cameron (Mittyak) and Tayla Stahl (Mundara).

More house athletics sports photos on pages 40 and 41.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 51

Best clubman: Matt Smith, left, receives the Geoff Cashin Memorial Award for best clubman from Tim Cashin.

Well done: Award winners, from left, Greg Goss (C1 batting and cricketer of the year), Michael Warren (C1 bowling), Matt Davies (A2 batting and Matt Trotman Memorial trophy for most determined), Jake Burge (most improved) and Brett Moore (B2 batting).

Town presents cricket awards LEONGATHA Town Cricket Club held their presentations on Saturday night, with plenty to celebrate.

The club is proud of their association award winners including Greg Goss (LDCA C1 batting), Matt Davies (LDCA A2 batting) and Warren Turner (LDCA B2 cricketer of the year).

Matt Smith was recognised as the best clubman for his work in overseeing the club’s redevelopment in recent times.

Cricketer of the year winners were recognised following a 3-2-1 voting system in each grade, while the bowling and batting trophies were awarded by average.

In C Grade Division 2, Barney Pouw was the batting winner, Ian Rutherford was cricketer of the year and Mick O’Loughlin won the bowling trophy.

C1 saw Greg Goss take home the batting and cricketer of the year, while Michael ‘Pucker’ Warren was the bowling award winner.

League cricketer of the year Warren Turner repeated his efforts in the club award, as well as winning the bowling average.

Brett Moore was the best batsman.

In A2, Matt Davies won the batting average while Nathan Johnston was the best bowler and the cricketer of the year.

Good season: Leongatha Town Cricket Club president John Schelling, treasurer Kelly Davies, Warren Turner (B2 bowling and cricketer of the year), Nathan Johnston (A2 bowling and cricketer of the year) and committeeman Brian Davies recalled a great year.

Venus Bay wins lifesaving gold TIDES VENUS Bay surf lifesaver Amy Robertson won gold in the Under 12 girls surf race at the Victorian Lifesaving championships recently.

Over 1500 junior surf lifesavers from 57 clubs descended on Lakes Entrance for the inaugural 2011 championships, with Venus Bay’s team of six finishing with some great results.

Amy won gold in very testing surf conditions. Amy, who also swims for South Gippsland-Bass, is coached by well known local identity Ivan Moore. Other great results were from local boy Harrison Cumming, who, after winning his semi-final, went on to take fifth in the Under 11 boys surf race. He is also coached by Ivan.

Lauren Robertson ran superbly, finishing fifth in the Under 14 girls, 1km beach Gold medal: Amy Robertson (pictured centre) with her gold medal. run.

Venus Bay junior co-ordinator, David Cumming said “I’m very proud of our team of six competitors.”

“They all performed incredibly well against the strongest surf lifesaving clubs from all around the state”.

The state championships completes the calendar of events for the Nippers involved with the Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving Club.

The Nippers program at Venus Bay this year saw over 150 kids between the ages of 5 and 15 participate in various activities over the summer.

“Our Nipper program teaches kids to be confident in the surf and have the knowledge to identify hazards at our beaches.

Hopefully these kids will go on to become future surf lifesavers,” David said.

The club will hold their annual Junior Presentation Night on Easter Saturday at the Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving club- Venus Bay competitors: Giacomo Lytis, Gulia Lytis, Amy Robertson, Rhiannon Mc Corriston, Lauren Robertson, Harrison Cumming, in front Taite Cumming. house.

Here is an easy guide to tides in your area.

To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below.

Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Port Phillip Heads

APRIL Time

6 WED

7 THUR

8 FRI

9 SAT

10 SUN

11 MON

12 TUE

height (metres)

0130 0736 1418 2000

1.38 0.33 1.54 0.58

0204 0810 1451 2033

1.41 0.28 1.58 0.57

0238 0844 1525 2107

1.42 0.26 1.59 0.57

0314 0916 1600 2141

1.42 0.25 1.58 0.58

0348 0948 1636 2215

1.41 0.26 1.55 0.60

0424 1020 1715 2248

1.38 0.27 1.50 0.63

0502 1054 1758 2325

1.34 0.30 1.45 0.65

All times shown in 24 hour clock 0001 - 1200..................AM 1201 - 2400..................PM

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Leongatha ON March 14 the Leongatha Bowls Club ladies section held their annual general meeting and as a result the elected officebearers for 2011/2012 are as follows: President Margaret Fisher, vice president Eileen Elliott, secretary Ellie McIntyre, hon. treasurer Mary Jepson.

Match committee members Faye Turner, Glenice Emmerson, Lorna Hulls, Glenda Trotman and Bev Thompson.

Pennant selectors Ellie McIntyre, Trish McCormack and Elaine White.

Committee members (6) M. Jepson, Bev Thompson, Glenda Trotman, Judy Jackson, Faye Judd and Glenice Emmerson.

On March 22 the Leongatha Bowls Club Inc. affiliated section held their annual general meeting and as a result the elected officebearers

for 2011/12 are as follows: President Alan Rayson, vice president Jack Kuiper, secretary Alan Brown, treasurer David Bee. Committee members Rex Withers, Robert Young, Ray Saunders, Frank Filomeno and Jeff Pendergast. Press correspondent George Witherow.

Match committee members Ollie Crouch, Jeff Pendergast, Lance Lancaster, David Bee and Brian Turner.

Pennant selectors (3 positions), Alan Rayson, Russell Trotman and Col Watt.

SGBA delegate Alan Brown. The ladies section will need to nominate a lady.

The meeting resolved that the Leongatha Bowls Club Inc affiliate with Bowls Victoria and the South Gippsland Bowls Association for the 2011/12 season.

After some discussion, it was moved we put three sides into pennant, Division

Inverloch

LAST Thursday was the second of our club’s fifth Thursday in the month triples tournaments.

We had seventeen teams play four games of two bowl triples.

Unfortunately a misunderstanding about a visiting team which had not actually entered, left an uneven number of teams which created a bye.

The club thanks sponsors of this day, Wonthaggi Toyota, for their continuing great support of our club.

After the completion of the four games, there were three four game winners, two of which had a bye, which entitled them to a win and the mandatory 17 points.

The winners of the day with 69 points with three actual wins and a bye was the team of Gary Hardy (ld), Wayne Parks (2nd) and Andy Dennis (sk). Runners-up with 68 points, which also included a bye was the team of Norm West (ld), Sam Scimonella (2nd) and Jim Scott (sk).

The other four game winner was the team of Ken Peterson (2nd) and Jack Miller (sk) who played the four games for four wins, but only had 65 points.

Last Saturday was mixed bowls, when 23 players played which included six women two games of fours and triples. After the end of play there was no two game winners.

With two wins and a draw, and taking first place were Daryl Pease (ld), Nell Van Grunsven(2nd), Marg Griffin (3rd) and Ron Rees (sk) who scored 29 pints.

The runners-up also with two wins and a draw and 25 points were Huie Nation (ld), Arthur Moule (2nd), R. Delahoy (3rd) and Jack Miller (sk).

Ron Burge and Norm West defeated Keiran Gardiner and Norm Hughes to win the club’s men’s pairs championship last Wednesday.

This win gives Ron and Norm some right to claim a possible record. These two men have paired in the club’s pairs championship for the last 25 years and have won this title 11 times over those years, including the last three years.

This partnership started soon after Norm moved to Inverloch and joined our club in 1984.

Norm is now an octogenarian, but Ron feels he and Norm have some more chances in this championship yet.

Korumburra Parlor bowls

ROUND nine of competition Parlor Bowls produced three close-scoring games.

The Burra and Battlers were on even scores four times during their game but, unfortunately for Battlers, The Burra finished one point ahead.

Arc Gammaldi’s team must be wondering if they will ever win after playing three close games and a draw.

After having a bye, Kardella showed improvement but went down by one shot when a Joyce Occhipinti “have-a-go” bowl scored two on the last end.

The third game was played between Sicilians and VRI, with Sicilians taking 10 shots in the first four ends.

VRI slowly worked their way into the game and with steady bowling scored 11 ends in a row, leaving Sicilians behind on the scorecard.

Results were The Burra 22 d Battlers 21, Kookaburras 23 d Kardella 22, VRI 26 D Sicilians

1, Division 2 and Division 4.

Wednesday, March 30 saw the midweek social bowls in action, with a small field taking to the greens in a pairs event. The winners were Alan Brown (s) and Ellie McIntyre, with one win plus 12.

Sponsors for the day were South Gippsland Quarries who were also sponsors for the Saturday, April 2 social bowls. The club thanks them for their valued support.

Saturday, April 2 saw an even lesser number of players, but this was understandable given that a number of members were away to Benalla for the Edinburgh Shield event, as well as some members who went to Moe for a tournament.

Winners for the social event were Frank Filomeno (s) with Tas Haywood.

Until next report, good bowling - Jackhigh.

We learned last week of the passing of one of our former lady bowlers, Mrs Margaret Hewson, the wife of one of the foundation members - the late Ray Hewson, and one of our leading bowlers for many years.

Margaret joined our club after she and Ray returned to the district after many years living in Dandenong. She retired from bowling a few years ago when her health began to fail. She spent the last few years as a resident of Inverloch’s Seahaven.

Inverloch ladies INVERLOCH lady bowlers hosted a very successful invitation day, sponsored by Stockdale and Leggo and the Bendigo Bank on Monday March 28.

It was a beautiful day weather-wise and the greens looked a picture with all 14 rinks filled with the 28 visiting teams playing three games.

Our ladies worked very hard to provide a lovely lunch in a beautifully presented venue.

Four very handsome men waited on the tables.

The winning team, being the only team to win three games, was the team led by Robyn Dennis with Ann Green, Carol Thorn and Veronica Muir with 49 points.

The runners-up with two wins and a draw on 46 points was the Wonthaggi team led by Keitha Bird with Kath Simpson, Lorraine Farrell and Joan Clarkson.

Best first game winner was the team from Warragul led by A. Mathews.

Best second game winner was the team from Korumburra led by Margaret Goad and the best third game winner was the team from Boolarra led by Betty Fox. Wednesday March 30, 22 ladies played with the winners; Jill Bateman with Sue Nation, Lorraine Dowson and Phyllis Peterson. The runnersup were Dianna Patterson with Edith Perrett, Margaret Griffin and Judith Moule (our newest bowler). Raffle winners; Pam Sutcliffe, Shirley Cook and Carol Waters.

Good luck to Joy Hargreaves who is the current Australian Champion of the deaf bowlers association and is in Perth representing Australia in the International deaf bowlers competition.

For those ladies not playing country week bowls this week, Wednesday bowls on April 6 will start at the usual time of 1pm.

21, Pretenders - bye.

On Monday, March 28 12 social bias bowlers enjoyed a series of doubles games with the combinations of players varied from the previous week.

This week three teams had two wins each and three teams one win apiece.

Ashley Van Duffelen and Charlie Tumino finished third with -4 shots whilst Joanna Lomagno and Michael Matthews finished second with +3 shots.

Joanna and Michael had easily defeated the winning combination in the first round but Joyce Occhipinti and Lee Armstrong rallied to improve in the second and third rounds, finishing with +4 shots, just edging Joanna and Michael out of first place.

Unfortunately for Joanna, she broke her bowling arm on Tuesday thus putting an end to her good performances of late. Club members wish Jo a speedy recovery.

It is pleasing to report that Korumburra Parlor Bowls

members, George Bentley and Arc Gammaldi were in the runners-up team at Fish Creek’s Open Night.

Their team won three games but were beaten on overall shots.

Buffalo indoor ON Wednesday March 30, eight players formed four teams of two and played two games of 12 ends.

With six bowls in fourth (LL) skipper Sebastian Terranova third (LW) 11 ends, skipper Toni Heldens, Col Densley second (WL) 13 ends, skipper Bill Wolswinkle, Peter Heldens first (WW), skipper Rod McConchie, Andrew Hanks.

The best first game: Rod 18-08, second Rod 14-11.

The maximum six was scored by Bill in the second game.

We hope to see you all at our opening night on Wednesday April 6 at 7.30pm at the Buffalo Hall.

Association Fours winners: Carole Thorn, Kay Hale, Helen Twite, and June Farquhar with the association secretary.

South Gippsland District Ladies Bowls Association THE LAST couple of weeks have been very hectic. The State Fours were held at Bairnsdale and our team only played half a game and got washed out so had to travel back to Bairnsdale on Tuesday March 11 to complete their games, which they did, winning our Group 10 section. They now go on to Shepparton Park on March 13 and 14 to play against the other 11 groups in Victoria. Well done Jaye, Joy, Hazel and Yvonne.

The Association Pairs and Fours were held at Inverloch on March 23 and 29. After some very close games the Pairs was won

by Pat Davis and Hazel Crewdson from Phillip Island and the fours was won by San Remo’s team of Kay Hale, Carol Thorn,

Congratulations: Association Pairs winner Hazel Crewdson and Pat Davis with supporter Rosa James.

Wilma Brunsden and June Farquhar.

Wonthaggi’s Division One pennant team trav-

Korumburra SGDLBA pairs and four finals contested last week saw Korumburra’s representatives in the pairs.

Carole Fields and Bev Button played excellent bowls in the final with scores level on the final end at 12 all.

The extra end resulted in Phillip Island’s Pat Davis and Hazel Crewdson scoring the vital one shot that neither Carole nor Bev could dislodge.

Congratulations to all four players for an excellent game of bowls.

The winners of the men’s and ladies matches played last week were Margaret Claney, Cherylyne Fuehrer, David Goodridge, Bill Chivers and Carl Francoli.

Keith March’s family sponsored this great family day. Our thanks to Judith and Keith.

With 14 members and friends in attendance, after three games the winners were Garry Ingley, Cherylyne Fuehrer, Joanna and Ross Lomagno, with three wins 21 shots. Runners-up with two wins 23 shots up were Ron and Debbie Williams, Bill Dorling and Glen Earl.

Numbers were down for the ladies on Wednesday. After two games, the winners with 13 ends were Margaret Goad, Margaret Claney, Marj Williams and Lena Harfield.

Thursday’s men’s pairs was another

elled to Darebin to play off against the other 11 group pennant winners and after playing an extra end were

successful day. The winners, after three games and 19 shots up were Michael Raman, and G. Turton.

The drawn card went to David Goodridge and Emmanuel Sgarioto.

The winners of the last game of twilight bowls on Thursday evening were Heather and Robin Hancock. Many thanks to Debbie and Joanna for organising these nights.

Thanks to Peter Hearn (the president, cook), Mick Banik, Ron Williams, and Mary in the bar. All round it was a most successful series for the club.

On Friday the ladies held their annual tournament. Thanks to our sponsors, Guardian Chemist, Davan and Carol Field and O’Donnells Optical.

The winners were best first game, Jaye Allen-Dayle, Joy Brown, Di Coleman and Leonie Hanks. Best last game had two cards with six ends and six shots up. The Tarwin Lower ladies winners were Helen Twite, Doreen Barnes, Wilma Coleman and Bron Allen with the Inverloch ladies Pam Sutcliffe, Carol Waters, Marg G. and Shirley P. With three three game winners, the Inverloch ladies Joyce Arnold, Jill Bateman, Rhonda Davies and Sue Nation received club trophies. Runners-up with 49 points were the Mirboo North ladies, Dallas Randall Rena Spark, June Nethercote and Dot McFarland.

defeated by Portland. It was a great game and congratulations must go to the team.

The winners were the Foster team of Dulcie Mortlock, Gwen Gacey, Patsy Ganson and Pam Henry with 50 points.

President Mary thanks all who helped to make our annual ladies tournament day such a success.

On Saturday the men held their annual Landmark day. Many thanks to Ian Pepperell who organises these days. Our numbers were down due to other commitments by players. Those who did attend had a most enjoyable day’s bowling.

After three games, those in the winning circle were best last game with seven shots and ends Rob Butterworth, Dudley Harrison and Max Brown (Meeniyan). The runners-up were Gary Ingley, Ted Kealy and Emmanual Sgarioto with three plus 15 shots. The winners were locals Brian Pepperell, George Savage, Mick Dillon, with three wins plus 43 shots. Herb Tracey presented the winners with their prizes on behalf of our sponsors, Landmark.

Sunday was another successful day with the Ringwood club, with Korumburra winning the shield by 23 shots.

The Korumburra side of Gary Horner, Chas Blogg, Nancy Gilbert and Bill Chivers were our best performers.

Many thanks to Jan McLaren, Lorraine Chivers, Beryl Chivers and Beth Mackay for preparing the serving the lovely meal.

Mardan indoor bowls NUMBERS were down a little this week with some bowlers in the sick bay, hope to see you all back very soon.

Bowlers mad up four teams of four, all playing two games of 10 ends.

One team won both its games, the first with the help of a generous contribution from the opposition as the kitty was repeatedly knocked off the mat.

The winning team was Bev Greenwood, Graeme Roberts, Ian Bristow and Vito Serafino (skip). Runners-up were Kristy Rutjens, Margaret Campbell, Mal Andrews and Rob Matthies (skip).

The South Gippsland pennant competition will resume this year, albeit in a very different format.

There was no pennant competition last year due to a shortage of players. The revised format will enable all clubs to again compete, and pennant will commence on May 3.

Making sure: Kelvin Flanders checks the distance while Robin McKenzie looks on.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 53

Leongatha

THE club championships for 2011 have been completed and the pattern of recent years has been repeated.

Michael Thomas has won his fourth championship with a three round total of 236. David Poulton birdied the final hole to finish a game runner-up, three strokes back on 239. Tony Goldie was close up in third place.

Congratulations to Michael who continues to be our dominant golfer, but also to David who was runner-up for the third year running.

Consolation for David in that he won the A Minor Grade. Andrew MacFarlane was consistent throughout and he won B Grade as well as the Rod Cameron trophy for the best net score over the three rounds, 209 strokes.

C Grade was won by Nick Savino (274) and D Grade went to Shane Law (282). Senior champion is Peter Hart (245) and junior champion is Nick Cairns (260). Congratulations to all winners.

The day’s event was monthly medal which was taken out by B Grade winner Neil Gillin who scored 89-23-66.

Andrew MacFarlane won A Grade with a very steady 82-13-69, while John King took C Grade on 105-36-69. Peter Walsh won pro-pin and Trevor Rickard won nearest the pin.

Ball winners: G. McDonald, S. Law, F. de Bondt, S. Drummond 70; M. Berry, R. Paice 71, P. Hart 72, N. Cairns, D. Vorwerg, S. Fisher 73; D. Clemann, B. Hutton, I. Nunn 74; I. Murchie, P. Du Plessis, N. Wardle, T. Brown, P. Rayson 75.

Tuesday While the scores in B Grade were very good, Jon Smith got away with an A Grade win courtesy of a moderate 35 points. Ted Bruinewoud’s 40 points was the day’s high score and earned him the prize in B Grade.

Bob Jamieson and Bruce Hutton were nearest the pin winners.

Down the line balls: G. Spruzen 39, K. Gardner, B. Jamieson, P. Wilson 37; C. Manley, G. Sharrock, P. Hobson 35; J. Arnott 34, S. Moncur, W. Christian, J. Eabry 33.

Thursday A good turn-up of 64 players and Barry Stevens was the star, winning A Grade with 40 points. Ron Paice finished on top in B Grade

with 38 and Gary Sharrock’s 37 points ensured him victory in C Grade. Ross McRobert and Hugh Goodman were nearest the pin winners.

Ball winners: J. Eabry, R. McRobert, C. Leaver 37; M. Stubbs 36, R. McCann, I. Nunn, N. Mackenzie 35; H. Goodman, F. de Bondt, R. Burton 34; D. Clemann, R. Brown, A. Nilsson, K. Finney, D. Webster, F. Smedley 33.

Saturday’s event is stableford and is followed next week by the Herb Dearricott fourball par event. The J.P. Malone ‘Diggers Day’ ambrose is coming up on Thursday, April 21.

Ladies March 30 was the day of our 3BBB ABC competition and it was a very friendly, enjoyable day playing a team game like this. What’s more, we had all finished before it started to rain.

Thanks to Noreen Williams for her sponsorship of the event and the day.

We also held our annual Anti-Cancer Day stall, and Val Brydon worked many hours to set up and run the stall which brought in over $300 for a cause that touches all of us.

Winners were Wendy Brown, Jan Bissett and Lesley Renwick who scored a resounding 97 points (Though Wendy just made the tee in time by the skin of her teeth).

Wendy Surman, Debbie Miller and Glenys McRobert were runners-up with 91 points.

Di Williams, Marg Danks and Joy Runge scored 90 points to win the third prize after a countback.

Toni West, Evelyn Indian and Georgina Mitchell 90, Dot Stubbs, Shirley Welsford and Ann Debenham 89. Anna de Bondt, Rita de Bondt and Helen Mackenzie 88 won balls down the line.

Marion Bellingham and Toni West were nearest the pins on the 14th and 16th respectively.

Karen Orford won the nine hole event.

The highlight of the week came on Saturday April 2 when Toni West scored an eagle on the 12th hole, the hardest hole on the course.

A two on this long par four is something not achieved in my memory, so congratulations to Toni.

She was also the winner of the stableford event with 42 points. Rita de Bondt 38, Pat Pease 37 and Marilyn Williams 34 all won balls.

Leongatha Golf Club champs: Nic Cairns (Junior champion), Andrew McFarlane (B Grade champion), Dave Poulton (A Minor champion), Michael Thomas (Club champion).

Woorayl LAST Saturday we played a single stableford event sponsored by Ray Drummond Golf.

The winner of A Grade was Trent Walters with 38 points and he lost $10 to the B Grade winner Tom Ryan whose 44 points was also the best score of the day.

C Grade went to Darryl Hunt with a respectable 41 points.

Balls went to M. Grist, Danny Dwyer, B. Hogan, G. Johnson, R. Beilby, J. Baum, M. Herrald, J. Maynard and B. Thomas.

The nearest the pins went to Col James (8th) and John Hassett (17th).

Our Thursday bar voucher went to Bruce

Challis with 37 points. A ball went to Darryl Hunt and Bo Fiek.

The nearest the pin on the 17th hole was won by John Diaper.

Next week we will play our 50th anniversary Ambrose and there will be a dinner at night.

Coming up on Thursday April 14 will be our Easter raffle night, of course the best priced meal in town will also be available. Don’t forget the A. E. Smith mixed qualifying round will be played on Sunday April 17.

Ladies On March 23 we played a fourball event sponsored

by Hartley Wells, with the winners being Marg Higgins and Fay Maynard

Meeniyan

Competitive trio: despite the pressure of contesting the third round of the Leongatha Golf Club’s championship on Saturday, Will Norden, Bob Jamieson and Fred de Bondt still managed to smile.

Leongatha squash A Grade Mondo Rock 3-9-108 d Angels 1-6-96 ACDC 3-11-118 d Noiseworks 1-3-81 Dragon 3-9-129 d INXS 1-8-112 Models 2-10-132 d Cold Chisel 2-8-120 Match of the week between Philomena Smith and Shane Collier was a great tussle.

Phil started steady using Shane’s pace to move the ball around. Shane steadied winning a tight second game.

The match alternated but Phil was controlling the play with good volleying and quick hands.

Shane, using strong drives, kept himself in the match; however, Phil kept attacking with precise drop and boast shots. Phil won three games, 39 points to Shane two games, 34 points.

B Grade Tigers 2-9-117 d Cats

2-7-112 Hawks 4-12-110 d Suns 0-0-55 Dogs 3-9-89 d Swans 1-4-73 Match of the week was a close exchange between Cliff Hammond and Greg Cripps.

Greg started well and with his great serving and the wrong footing of Cliff he took the first game nine to six.

Greg had the upper hand in the second game, but after a slow start Cliff started to find his form and with his touch shots dropping in the corner, he managed to take the game 10 to eight.

Cliff took the third game which was another close one with both players covering a lot of the court.

Cliff had no answer for Greg’s serving in the fourth game but the fifth game was a complete turnaround.

Cliff won three games, 35 points to Greg two games 33 points.

SATURDAY was monthly medal day with the field down a bit probably due to the start of footy season. The sponsor for the day was Action Pumps.

A Grade winner was Will Bullock with a net 73. B Grade and medal winner was Rod Matthews on a countback with a net 70. Runner-up was Daryle Gregg with a net 70.

Winner of the putts was Lloyd Hemphill with 26 putts.

Balls down the line went to Gavin Zerbe 72, Tony McHarg 74, Chris Buckland 75 and Ian Warman with 75.

On Sunday our annual Meeniyan/Leongatha challenge was held at the Leongatha Golf Club. Our congratulations to Leongatha Golf Club on their win and the way the course and afternoon tea were presented.

Tuesday The winner of Tuesday’s single stableford day was Lloyd Hemphill with 36 points.

Down the line balls went to Wilf Richards 35 points and Frank Peile with 35. Fourball winners were Wilf and Henry Richards with 46 points. Best nine was Steve Collins with 28 points. Nearest the pin on the 14th was Mick Fowkes.

Thursday The winner of Thursday’s single stableford was Ian Warman with 35 points.

Balls down the line went to Frank Peile with 33 points.

Best nine Jim Cusack with 18 points and nearest the pin on the 8th was Henry Richards.

Next week we have a singles stableford event, with the following week our tourGetting closer: Shane Law closes in on the ninth nament, so please get your hole. entries in early.

with 45 points.

Runners-up were Ann Poole and Anne Patterson with 43 points.

Nearest the pin on the eighth was Thel Scoble, on the 17th was Anne Grist and the best second shot on the 11th was Heather Sullivan.

We incorporated the Royal Women’s Hospital event with the day and our representatives at the district playoff will be Marg and Fay. This was also the qualifying round of the Di and John O’Connor board event, with the winners and runners-up to be joined

by Di O’Connor and Thel Scoble, along with Lois Young and Heather Sullivan, as the four qualifying pairs to play off for

the title.

Last week was a stableford day with secret partners.

Thanks to Jenny Riseley for supplying the lovely prizes, with the winners being Shirley Thomas and Marg Higgins with 66 points. Runners-up were Iris McLeod and Anne Patterson with 64 points, and balls down the line were won by Fay Maynard and Elsie McBride, along with Melinda Martin and Janet Thompson.

Nearest the pin on the eighth was Karin McKenzie, second shot on the 11th was Shirley Thomas and the 17th was Melinda Martin.

Next week will be April monthly medal.

South Gippsland Junior Golf Classic

himself.

Past winners of this most prestigious event include Aaron Baddeley and John Sutherland, both of whom have carved out very successful professional careers.

In addition to the main event there are many events for both scratch and handicap events.

The event is made possible through a grant from the Victorian Golf Foundation.

Entries for local juniors can be found at all South Gippsland Clubs, and should be forwarded to the tournament manager Mr Denis Stanes, 14 Drysdale Street, Wonthaggi, 3995.

Telephone entries will not be accepted. An entry fee of $30 is applicable for the event, which includes a light lunch.

The South Gippsland Junior Golf Classic will be held at Lang Lang on Friday April 15.

The event, which is regarded as the elite junior tournament for the South Gippsland region, will see many of Melbourne’s top junior golfers competing against some of South Gippsland’s best.

The main event will be the 36 hole scratch for the South Gippsland Junior Golf Foundation Shield for those in A Grade (0 – 9).

For those in B and C Grades, the event had been reduced to 27 holes stroke.

Of the local juniors, Nic Cairns of Leongatha Golf Club is expected to give a good account of

Mirboo North THIRTY-SIX players attended the monthly medal stroke event held on April 2 with a CCR of 70.

A Grade was won by Dave Woodall (7) 68 net.

Jeff Hughes was the B Grade winner with (16) 72 net.

Down the line balls: Nigel Bracecamp 70 net, Garry Shandley 70 net, Len Rowe 72 net, Tom Whitelaw 72 net, Russell Pentland 72 net.

Nearest the pin: 4th Noel Fox, 13th Phil Stimson, Tom Whitelaw, second shot on the first Ian Deppeler, pro pin: 6th Terry Bradshaw.

Birdies: Phil Stimson (13th), Gordon Graham (6th), Noel Fox (6th).

Twenty-one players at-

tended the stableford event on Thursday.

The CCR was 69.

A Grade winner: Joe Taylor (17) 40.

Down the line balls: Alan Adcock (18), Noel Fox (14) 39, John Blunsden (19) 39.

Birdies: Noel Fox (13th), Phil Simson (4th), Graham Watson (16th), Peter Chapman (16th), Ray Matthews (6th).

Ladies

The championship held on March 30 was won by T. Higginbottom with 81 points.

J. St Ellen handicap 33, score of 42.

Down the line balls: R. Millsom, M. Thompson, S. Hughes, C. Gunn.

Nearest the pin: 4th S. Hughes, 16th J. Dyke.

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Mirboo North hands over shield

By Rover

A REVITALISED Yinnar ran over the top of Mirboo North after quarter-time, to record an impressive 47-point victory in the 2011 Mid Gippsland seasonopener at Tigerland on Saturday.

Yinnar regains the Vin Kallady Memorial Shield, which Mirboo North president, Joe Koene, handed to his Magpie counterpart, Dean Suares, in the social rooms after the match.

The lush Tigerland surface was beautifully prepared by head curator, Paul Pugh, with nary a blade of grass out of place.

Strengthened by the return of past premiership stars, Liam Visser, Sam Mills and Nathan Scurrah, plus recruits, Mark Glowery and Thys Stanistreet, Yinnar had far too much power, precision and productivity for the Tigers.

Both teams’ full-forwards had successful days - Stanistreet finished with six majors for the winners and Tim Traill chalked up five for the Tigers.

Mirboo North opened brilliantly, with playing coach Matt Holland, Shane Peters, Damien Turner and Dom Pinneri driving the Sherrin forward from perfectly-placed palm-outs

by Don Webb, at the centre clearances.

The pace was a cracker and there was no place for plodders or anyone who dared take a short step.

He who hesitated was lost and faced banishment to the interchange bench for penance and self-reflection.

The Tigers were moving the ball quickly and effectively downfield on a regular basis, and appeared to have Yinnar’s defence temporarily rattled.

Five first-term goals from Peters, Turner, Brayden Wilson, Traill and Dwayne Gunn, gave the Tigers a handy 24-point lead at quarter-time.

Mirboo North’s defence of Drew Gardener, Kallum Nash, Peter Taylor and Daniel Taylor, had combined brilliantly to limit Yinnar to a single goal at the first break.

The second quarter was owned by Yinnar, as it piled on six goals to Mirboo North’s one, to take a nine-point advantage into the long break.

The Tigers were unable to contain the free-running, fastmoving and damaging Visser, who had the ball on a string and hurt Mirboo North with every disposal.

“He reminds me very much of Chris Judd,” remarked an admiring Magpie fan on the terraces.

As well, Mirboo North was unable to restrict the roaming Brendan Chapman’s booming, left-foot deliveries to teammates, out of its defensive 50.

Stanistreet was starting to get on top of Gardener in the goal-square too, as the Sherrin came in thick and fast to the Magpies’ scoring area.

Mirboo North had lost its momentum, and the writing was on the wall for a likely defeat.

Some frustrated Mirboo North players fell for the threecard-trick of disputing umpiring decisions and the triggerhappy whistleblowers didn’t hesitate to impose 50-metre penalties for the least indiscreet remark.

Loose lips sink ships and also cost you plenty on the scoreboard.

Rule number one in footy

- don’t argue with umpires, because never in the history of the game, have they changed a decision to satisfy a complainant.

Kicking with the aid of a slight breeze, Mirboo North kept in touch with the Magpies until midway through the third term, but by three-quarter time the Tigers were 22 points in arrears.

Victory was still an option for the Tigers, if they could minimise their turnovers and maximise their penetration through the midfield and into their forward 50.

Alas, it wasn’t to be; Yinnar inflicted more pain in the final quarter, going on to win by one point shy of eight goals.

Reserves How quickly things can change in football.

Yinnar’s 38-point win over Mirboo North represents a 126-point turnaround on the previous encounter between the two teams on August 17 2010. On that day, the dispirited and under-resourced Magpies only booted two goals and went down the mineshaft by 88 points.

Fast-forward to Saturday’s first half and the Tigers were again going well. Goals to Chris McDonald, Smokin’ Joe O’Loughlin and Simon Lawson, had Mirboo North two points in arrears at halftime and in a positive frame of mind.

As well, Joel Graeme and newcomer, Steve Kalos, were starring around the packs, whilst Pat Aveling and Cam McIlwaine, were consistent feed chain suppliers to the forward line.

Woe to report, a late finalquarter goal by veteran, Matt Snell, was the only major recorded by the Tigers for the rest of the match.

With big full-forward, Dean Stanistreet, who finished with five outstanding goals, leading the charge, Yinnar banged on seven majors to run out easy winners.

Thirds High standard play from both sides kept the crowd on its toes, as the Sherrin swept around the oval at brisk speed.

Ben Hopcraft dazzled his Magpie opponents with multiple possessions, to be best afield by a street.

Others who were prominent for the Tigers were Liam

Nash, James Dickeson and Nick Gervasi.

In a tight encounter, Mirboo North’s Liam Joustra cleverly slipped away from his opponent, gathered a loose ball and calmly snapped the final goal of the match, to put the Tigers in front midway through the final quarter.

Fourths Mirboo North easily accounted for Yinnar by 50 points, only allowing the Magpies the opportunity to score a goal in each half.

Liam Nash was in sensational form for the Tigers, with plenty of possessions and centimetre-perfect disposals to his teammates.

SENIORS Booolarra 9.5.59 d Yarragon 7.8.50.

Boolarra goals: Kenneth Towt 3, Courteney Sherriff 2, Jay O’Keefe 1, Daniel Metcalf 1, Jesse Giardina 1, Tyson Leys 1.

Best: Matthew Dyer, Courtney Sherriff, Chris Riseley, Daniel Metclaf, Kenneth Towt, Steven Fox. RESERVES Boolarra 19.12.126 d Yarragon 5.4.34.

Top goalkickers: Angus Craddock, Peter Gilpin 4.

Best: Joshua Wilson, Peter Gilpin, Shane Gardiner, Barry Ellis, Joey Groves, Matthew Windsor.

FOURTHS Yarragon 11.9.75 d Boolarra 4.6.30.

Top goalkickers: Robert Wallace (Yarragon).

Boolarra best: Luke Lewis, Jack Battersby, River Carroll, Max Sauppe, Hayden Lawson-Pepper, Jesse Giardina.

OTHER MATCHES SENIORS Yall Yall North 9.13.67 d Thorpdale 8.12.60.

Newborough 12.14.86 d Hill 5.8.38.

Trafalgar 17.15.117 d Morwell East 5.8.38.

RESERVES Thorpdale 11.4.70 d Yall Yall North 5.4.34.

Boolarra 19.12.126 d Yarragon 5.4.34.

Hill End 10.10.70 d Newborough 5.6.36.

Trafalgar 8.12.60 d Morwell East 6.4.40.

THIRDS Thorpdale 12.17.89 d Yall Yall North 5.7.37.

Newborough 11.9.75 d Hill End 6.4.40.

Trafalgar 22.10.142 d Morwell East 6.6.42.

FOURTHS Newborough 19.8.122 d Hill End 0.2.2.

Trafalgar 14.18.102 d Morwell East 0.0.0.

SENIORS Yinnar 19.10.124 d Mirboo NOrth 12.5.77.

RESERVES Mirboo North 5.4.34 lt Yinnar 11.6.72.

Top goalkickers: Dean Stanistreet 5 (Yinnar).

Mirboo North best: Jake Garde, Steven Kalos, Patrick Aveling, Simon Lawson, Brian Lawson.

THIRDS Mirboo North 7.8.50 d Yinnar 6.7.43.

Top goalkicker: Kyle Crookston 3.

FOURTHS Mirboo North 12.5.77 d Yinnar 2.5.17.

Top goalkicker: Thomas Taylor 3 (Mirboo North.

Mirboo North best: Liam Nash, Jacob Best, Thomas Taylor, Luke Heath, Jarrad Abbey, Jesse Peters.

Mid Gippsland League SENIORS LADDER Trafalgar ................. 307.89 Newborough ........... 226.32 Yinnar .................... 161.04 Boolarra .................. 118.00 Yall Yall North ......... 111.67 Thorpdale .................. 89.55 Yarragon .................... 84.75 Mirboo North.............. 62.10 Hill End ...................... 44.19 Morwell East .............. 32.48

4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0

RESERVES LADDER Boolarra .................. 370.59 Thorpdale ............... 205.88 Hill End ................... 194.44 Trafalgar ................. 150.00 Morwell East............. 66.67 Newborough .............. 51.43 Yall Yall North ............. 48.57 Yarragon .................... 26.98 Mirboo North................ 0.00

4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0

THIRDS LADDER Trafalgar ................. 338.10 Thorpdale ............... 240.54 Newborough ........... 187.50 Yarragon ..................... 0.00 Hill End ..................... 53.33 Yall Yall North ............. 41.57 Morwell East .............. 29.58 Yinnar .......................... 0.00 Mirboo North................ 0.00

4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0

FOURTHS LADDER Newborough ......... 6100.00 Yarragon ................. 250.00 Trafalgar ..................... 0.00 Thorpdale ................... 0.00 Boolarra .................... 40.00 Hill End ........................ 1.64 Morwell East ................ 0.00 Mirboo North................ 0.00 Yinnar .......................... 0.00

4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0

Learn to play basketball AN AUSSIE Hoops program, run for Leongatha basketball has recently concluded, but will run again in term three.

The seven week program teaches kids the basic skills of the sport, as well as encouraging participation and having a good time.

“There is a great vibe when you are

• UNDER 12s

in and amongst the kids ages six to 10, both boys and girls,” said event organiser Colleen Herbert.

“I organise the event with help from Lyn Mills and Natalie Giliam.

“I have five coaches that are brilliant and interact with the kids really well Brok, Mikaela, Brendan, Dylan from Mary MacKillop and Matt from the Secondary College.”

Having fun: participants in the Aussie Hoops program, which will return in term three.

Hard at it: the tough-tackling Tom Brew puts the squeeze on a Moe opponent.

Parrots trounce Moe THE Leongatha Under 12s enjoyed a massive 109 point win over the Moe Saints in the season opener on Saturday.

The young Parrots were at their devastating best, and quickly put the game beyond doubt.

Zac Caughey drove the early attack from centre half forward, registering the first major. Jack Dunn followed up moments later. Clay Alexander was dominant in the middle and Tom Evans was displaying superior judgement in the aerial contests.

Caughey kicked another goal, while Nick Battersby repelled Moe’s forward forays.

Joel Norton, Jordy Geary and Trent Westaway were on the front foot in the stoppages.

Josh Lindsay kicked another Parrots goal, followed by the effervescent Damon Ginnane. Caughey slotted another before quarter time.

The second quarter followed a similar pattern of dominance, with Tully Benaldo marking well across half forward.

Jack Ballagh took a clever mark off a stray Moe kick and kicked another major for his team. Tom Brew was hitting the

packs hard.

Evans drilled another goal.

Cam Olden was dominating the contest in the middle of the ground.

Josh Boler slotted a goal, while Michael McKinnon continued to set up the Parrots’ attacks.

Late goals to Caughey and Norton had the Parrots a mile in front at the main break.

In the third quarter goals to Zac Van Delft and Benaldo continued the Parrots’ romp. Nathan Trotto was the main driving force in the engine room.

Dunn bobbed up for another before the bell.

Dunn snaffled another early in the last quarter, with Moe kicking its one and only goal moments later. But Caughey was quick to reply with another major to the Parrots.

In a sickening clash of heads, the Parrots star was felled minutes later and had to be escorted from the ground.

Fortunately he was sore, but not seriously hurt.

Van Delft put the icing on the cake for the Parrots with a further goal before the last siren.

Final score: Leongatha 18.7.115 to Moe 1.0.6.

Swimmers shine at ‘Champs Day’ THE SOUTH Gippsland Swimming Association finished its season off on Sunday with ‘Champs Day’ at Leongatha Splash.

The day is an invitation only event where the region’s best battle it out for supremacy.

And more than a few new records were set.

Leongatha Swimming Club coach Carolyn Bissett said the standard of competition was improving year by year.

“I’m not the only one saying it either. The kids now are being coached a lot more. Leongatha, Korumburra, Phillip Island all have more training sessions,” she said.

“In the past it used to be that the Bass swimmers won everything.

Some of the record breakers today were certainly Bass, but now there’s a lot of kids who aren’t with Bass breaking them too.”

Swim champs: Leongatha Swimming Club’s Lochie Nunn and Wonthaggi Swimming Club’s Oliver Bates set the standard in the Under 14 competition on Sunday.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 55

Tim Wightman wins cricketer of the year NERRENA cricketer Tim Wightman took out the Leongatha and District Cricket Association’s cricketer of the year award after a huge season with bat and ball.

Country week: the Anderson-Bolding trophy for best cricketer at country week was won by Gavin Britt (middle) pictured with presenters Gav Bolding and Brad Anderson.

The LDCA celebrated a big season of cricket at the Dakers Centre, Leongatha on Friday night, a season in which they won the Division Two Melbourne Country Week.

Wightman, who is off to play in Scotland during our winter, won the A Grade Division One’s top

LDCA batting awards: from left, Greg Goss C1 (Leongatha Town, 368 runs at 46), Matt Davies A2 (Leongatha Town, 508 runs at 39.08) Tom Wyatt Under 16 (OMK, 283 runs at 141.50), Gavin Britt A1 (Won.Workmens, 701 runs at 87.63), Darren Aurisch C2 (Kilcunda-Bass, 515 runs at 85.83). Absent David Britt B1 (Wonthaggi Workmens 509 runs at 63.63) and Trevor Aplin B2 (Kilcunda-Bass, 326 runs at 46).

award with a stunning 990 points. He took 33 wickets at an average of 16.48 and scored 602 runs for the season at an average of 50.2.

In the final game against ultimate premier Wonthaggi Workmens, Wightman scored 153 not out. In the semi-final

against Miners he scored 72. He was also vice-captain of the winning country week team.

The main disappointment for Wightman, who is captain/coach of Nerrena, was to miss out on getting into the grand final after being defeated by Miners in the semi.

Best Under 18: winner of the Fred Zeuschner trophy for best Under 18 cricketer Mitchell Clark of Nerrena, receives his trophy from LDCA life member, Al Sperling.

Well done: Adam Miller (left) a Melbourne Country Week player for the LDCA congratulates Nerrena’s Tim Wightman on his cricketer of the year honour.

Best Under 16: Max Semkin (left) presents the Semkin-Wood trophy for best Under 16 cricketer to Eli Richards of Phillip Island.

A1’s top team: the LDCA’s A1 team of the year. The team consisted of Craig Friebe, Gavin Britt, David Brann, Andrew Donohue, Gary Sauvarin, Damien Symmons, Cameron Thomas, Tim Wightman, Kit Rotthier, Udara Weerasinghe and Adam Eddy. Absent from photograph were Cameron Thomas and Kit Rotthier.

Cricketers of the Year: from left, Clint Wilson (A2, Phillip Island, 802 points), Tom Wyatt (Under 16, OMK, 448 points), Warrren Turner (B2, Leongatha Town, 665 points), Tim Wightman (A1, Nerrena, 990 points), James Paterson (B1, OMK, 552 points), Darren Aurisch (C2, Kilcunda-Bass, 600 points). Absent Gavin Giliam (C1, Nerrena, 595 points).

Premiership captains: receive their “silverware” on Friday night, from left, an excited Kilcunda-Bass C2 captain John Oates, Inverloch C1’s Matt Goldsmith, Glen Alvie A2’s Orazio Santalucia, Nerrena B1’s Zac Trease, Workmen’s Club’s Gavin Bolding, Phillip Island Junior’s Eli Richards, a representative from A2’s one day winner, and OMK B2’s Peter Miller.

Under 18 awards: the Wyatt-Clark trophy for outstanding Under 18 cricketers went to Mitch Thomas and Alex Manteit (middle) pictured with presenters Geoff ‘Spic’ Wyatt and Terry Clark.

A2’s top team: the LDCA’s A2 team of the year. The team consisted of Graeme Watkins, Matt Davies, Tony Hornsby, Gary Wagstaff, Jason Law, Ashley Oates, Murray Lynch, Clint Wilson, Nathan Johnston, Ash Hickey, and Cameron Harris. Not all players were present on the night.

Bowling awards: from left, Clint Wilson (Phillip Island A2, 40 wickets at 5.95), James Paterson (OMK B1, 26 wickets at 9.19), Tim Wightman (Nerrena A1, 33 wickets at 16.48), Rod McKenzie (PoowongLoch C2, 29 wickets at 8.07), Jack Stuart (Koonwarra-Leongatha RSL Under 16’s 17 wickets at 8.50), Kevin Clark (Nerrena C1, 22 wickets at 6.64), and Michael Patching (Korumburra B2, 26 wickets at 9.08).

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Alberton netball Results - Round 1 April 2 A Grade: Dalyston 74 d Toora 17; MDU 57 d Stony Creek 50; Foster 62 d Yarram 28; Inverloch-Kongwak - bye; Fish Creek - bye; Korumburra-Bena - bye. * No scores received from DWWWW/Phillip Island game.

Pivotal player: Brittney McKenzie surpassed her responsibilities in the centre for Foster.

Leongatha indoor netball March 28 Juniors: Hot Shots 11 v Junior Bushrangers 8.

Vixens 2 v Swifts 11.

Stars - bye.

Seniors: Mixtures 39 v LOLS 44.

Reps 54 v Lil Rascals 6.

Mutley Crew 27 v Rising Stars 25.

Odd Bods 42 v Divas 19.

Hot Shots - bye.

To play April 11 Juniors: Hotshots v Swifts.

Junior Bushrangers v

Stars.

Vixens - bye.

Seniors: 6.30 - Mixtures v Rising Stars.

Mutley Crew v LOLS. 7.15: Divas v Lil Rascals.

Hot Shots v Odd Bods.

Reps - bye.

B Grade: InverlochKongwak 54 d Kilcunda-Bass 12; Dalyston 61 d Toora 25; MDU 55 d Stony Creek 43; Fish Creek 47 d Tarwin 23; Foster 115 d Yarram 5; Korumburra-Bena - bye. * C Grade: InverlochKongwak 48 d Kilcunda-Bass 6; Dalyston 32 d Toora 14; MDU 35 d Stony Creek 29; Fish Creek 45 d Tarwin 36; Foster - bye; KorumburraBena - bye. * 17 & Under: InverlochKongwak 62 d Kilcunda-Bass 10; Dalyston 53 d Toora 8; MDU 29 d Stony Creek 20; Fish Creek 57 d Tarwin 11; Yarram 60 d Foster 26; Korumburra-Bena - bye. * 15 & Under: InverlochKongwak 46 d Kilcunda-Bass 8; Toora 35 d Dalyston 27; Stony Creek 40 d MDU 18; Fish Creek 22 d Tarwin 7; Foster 21 d Yarram 20; Koru-

mburra-Bena - bye. * 13 & Under: InverlochKongwak 36 d KilcundaBass 3; Dalyston 46 d Toora 0; MDU 31 d Stony Creek 4; Fish Creek 34 d Tarwin 8; Yarram 33 d Foster 7.

Ladders A Grade Dalyston ........................435.3 Foster..............................221.4 MDU ............................... 114.0 Fish Creek ..........................0.0 Inverloch-Kongwak ...........00 Korumburra-Bena ............0.0 Stony Creek.......................87.7 Yarram ..............................45.2 Toora ................................23.0 DWWWW...........................0.0 Phillip Island .......................0.0 B Grade Foster............................2300.0 Inverloch-Kongwak ......450.0 Dalyston .........................244.0 Fish Creek ......................204.3 MDU ...............................127.9 Korumburra-Bena ............0.0 Stony Creek.......................78.2 Tarwin ..............................48.9 Toora .................................41.0 Kilcunda-Bass ...................22.2 Yarram .................................4.3 DWWWW...........................0.0 Phillip Island .......................0.0 C Grade Inverloch-Kongwak ......800.0 Dalyston .........................228.6 Fish Creek ......................125.0 MDU ...............................120.7 Foster..................................0.0 Korumburra-Bena ............0.0 Stony Creek.......................82.9 Tarwin ...............................80.0 Toora .................................43.8

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0

Kilcunda-Bass ...................12.5 DWWWW...........................0.0 Phillip Island .......................0.0 17 & Under Dalyston .........................662.5 Inverloch-Kongwak ......620.0 Fish Creek ......................518.2 Yarram ...........................230.8 MDU ...............................145.0 Korumburra-Bena ............0.0 Stony Creek.......................69.0 Foster.................................43.3 Tarwin ...............................19.2 Kilcunda-Bass ...................16.1 Toora .................................15.1 DWWWW...........................0.0 Phillip Island .......................0.0 15 & Under Inverloch-Kongwak ......575.0 Fish Creek ......................314.3 Stony Creek ...................222.2 Toora ..............................129.6 Foster..............................105.0 Korumburra-Bena ............0.0 Yarram ...............................95.2 Dalyston ............................77.1 MDU .................................45.0 Tarwin ...............................31.8 Kilcunda-Bass ...................17.4 DWWWW...........................0.0 Phillip Island .......................0.0

0 0 0

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

13 & Under Inverloch-Kongwak ....1200.0 MDU ...............................775.0 Yarram ...........................471.4 Fish Creek ......................425.0 Dalyston .............................0.0 Korumburra-Bena ............0.0 Tarwin ...............................23.5 Foster.................................21.2 Stony Creek.......................12.9 Kilcunda/Bass .....................8.3 Toora ...................................0.0 DWWWW...........................0.0 Phillip Island .......................0.0

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Mirboo North netball results

15 and Under Yinnar 51 d MN 14.

MN best: A. Loh, K. Rogers.

A new young team beaten by a very experienced and skilled side. We can only get better with training and playing together.

17 and Under MN 36 d Yinnar 28.

MN best: E.Loh, M. Windsor, M. Carney.

A great win against a strong and tall opposition.

The girls stayed positive and threw straight.

D Grade Yinnar 30 d Mirboo North 23.

MN Best: L. Bier, J. Crutchfield.

C Grade MN 29 d Yinnar 26.

MN best: H. Anderson, S. Holland, E. Morrison.

B Grade MN 36 d Yinnar 34.

MN best: K. Shiels, D. Hilliar.

Yinnar best: K. Harwood.

A Grade Yinnar 49 d MN 39.

MN best: B. Dyke, M. Geisler.

Cyclists start road racing season

Leongatha Cycling Club’s road season commenced on Saturday with a race around the Pound Creek circuit.

It was a hectic start for officials as nine new riders fronted up for a start in either A or B grade scratch races over the two lap race of 48km.

Several riders think there should have been a C grade group as well to cover the spread of ages and abilities.

There were 31 starters in the senior group but only three in the juniors.

However, we need more juniors – girls and boys, along with some women to join the racing.

The club can assist any riders with an interest in having a go.

Weather conditions were fine and cool with a steady south westerly blowing.

This resulted in the run past the golf course being uphill and into the wind along with a head wind down Pound Creek Road to the finish.

The A Grade field had 16 starters although possibly three or four should have been in B Grade.

The bunch set a solid pace of around 38km/h for the race, however it was not a steady pace but one that ebbed and surged. Eventually the hills, wind and continual pressure

weighs on some legs and riders cease to remain in contact with the bunch.

The regular riders were pleased to welcome newcomers in Jamie Nightingale, Jesse Boyd and Mark Haines into the bunch. Second time over the golf course hill left only 12 the bunch for the final sprint and it was the young legs to the fore. Morgan Clark took the win ahead of Tom Debenham and Jesse Boyd.

They were followed by Clem Fries, Jamie Nightingale, Kevin Feely, Tony Clark, Jason Scott, Ron Purtle and Jamie Grenfell rounding out the top 10.

The B Grade field of 15 riders had seven new faces and was a mixture of young and old.

However, age is not necessarily an indicator of one’s ability to compete at a particular level.

The early pace was pretty intense for some and the first time up the Koonwarra Road saw the first selections made with some C grade riders electing to ride at a more reasonable pace.

A further unfortunate election came just before the end of the first lap as a touch of wheels in the crosswind saw three riders fall. Neil Mauley, Ben Patterson and Tom Dudley all lost skin but fortunately no broken bones.

Big bunch: the A Grade peloton bunch up on the first lap past the Leongatha Golf Club.

Some further steady pedalling left just six in the bunch at the finish.

The sprint to the line saw a win to Steve Wilson from Col Boyd and Greg Bill.

They were followed by David Barker, Rod Cheyne and Gavin Slavin, Kerry Pritchard, Darcy O’Connor and Brad Thomas.

The junior riders were given a 10km time trial out and back on the Pound Creek Road.

This was won by Tom McFarlane with a time of 16.39 followed by 17.81 and Alex Bennett at 24.36.

It was Alex’s first road ride.

Last weekend Thomas McFarlane and Will Lumby raced at the State

Schools Titles at Shepparton. Thomas one both the mountain bike and road race whilst Will placed in the road race and just missed in the mountain bike race.

Next Saturday the racing is from Outtrim reserve with racing via Kongwak and WattleBank. The format is for handicap racing.

Annual John Sauvarin Memorial Ride ON Sunday, April 3 at Koonwarra Recreation Reserve members and friends of the Sauvarin family gathered to remember the late and popular John Sauvarin.

Get together: a huge contingent of cyclists and others were on hand for the annual John Sauvarin Memorial Ride.

Family gathers: members and friends of the Sauvarin family gather at the Koonwarra Recreation Reserve, back row from left, Adele Sauvarin, Alby Simpson, Adam Santilli, Gary Sauvarin, Alan Sauvarin, Lynn Cameron, front row from left, Krystal Sauvarin, Barb Sauvarin (with ‘Jock’), Matt Sauvarin, and Claire Sauvarin.

About 70 families were represented on the day.

Activities included a 40km Pound Creek circuit ride - 36 riders participated in this leg of the day’s activities.

Others elected to walk

or ride the Rail Trail for an invigorating work-out.

Everyone finished up at the Koonwarra Recreation Reserve for a barbecue lunch and reminiscences.

Thanks go to Tony Smith and Rick Trevorrow for again organising another great day in remembrance of a great guy.

The ride raised $370 for the Heart Foundation.

And as John always used to say, “We’re here for a good time, not for a long time!”

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 57

Foster unfurls flag in close game AS FOSTER unfurled their 2010 premiership flag the eyes of 22 inspired players lit up in the hope that the achievement could be replicated.

Around seven or eight of last year’s premiership side were absent from the team, which brought in some excited youngsters to debut.

But Foster was missing the cool heads of the older players early, as plenty of mistakes were made.

Yarram pounced on these clangers and managed to kick three goals to one in the first term.

Poor kicking in front of goal did not help the Tigers, who were left chasing their Demon opponents early on.

Foster did not have their kicking boots on,

scoring five behinds to go with their solitary major in the first term.

They were forced to battle hard for every shot on goal they had, and left kicking themselves after missing nine goals by half time.

The Tigers only trailed by three points at half time, and with plenty of improving to be done they were sure that they could win the match.

But the Demons had other plans, kicking the first goal of the third term and coming close to two others before Foster could find a way through the middle of the big sticks.

Yarram players Chris Bruns and Rod Jamieson were in control of the match, and were leading by example.

At the last change they led Foster by five points.

Last year’s league Best and Fairest winner Shaun Everington stepped into gear in the final term, revving up his team-mates as he gathered possessions at will.

The slick Foster engine that the local crowd is so used to seeing got going, and started to

Foster 9.13.67 d Yarram 7.10.52 Foster best: S. Zachariassen, S. Hawking, S. Gilchrist, B. Rooney, S. Everington, B. Coates.

Goals: T. Bartholomew 2, S. Gilchrist 2, S. Everington, D. Waser, B. Rooney, J. Best, K. Bulmer.

Yarram best: C. Bruns, R. Jamieson, L. Jenkins, D. Clavarino, S. Rendell, J. Reid.

Goals: C. Sutherland 3, J. Reid, R. Coulthard, C. Pattinson, W. Jenkins.

RESERVES

Foster 15.9.99 d Yarram 1.3.9 Top goalkickers: D. Thornell, D. Langstaff (Foster) 3 Foster best: D. Langstaff, M. Comben, G. Haye, A. Mercieca, M. Eales, D. Thornell.

Yarram best: D. Coulthard, M. Leg-

move the ball with greater conviction.

The Tigers kicked four goals to one in the final term, running out winners by 15 points.

Next week they will take on bitter rival Fish Creek, while Yarram will play host to KorumburraBena.

gett, B. McMahon, M. Mason, W. Coulthard, B. Waugh.

UNDER 18s

Foster 11.13.79 d Yarram 4.3.27 Top goalkicker: M. Green (Foster) 3.

Foster best: S. Chaseling, J. Richer, M. Allott, M. Green, D. Hateley, J. Moore.

Yarram best: K. Shrubb, M. McKenzie, L. Le Blanc, A. Holt, R. Baxter, B. Davis.

UNDER 15s

Second time?: Foster coach Dean Duursma is hoping for a repeat performance of last year’s premiership.

Foster 14.6.90 d Yarram 5.4.34 Top goalkicker: B. Hately (Foster) 7.

Foster best: E. Staley, B. Hateley, M. Green, J. Coffey, K. Bohn.

Yarram best: L. Rodaughan, C. Coulthard, C. Chaipol, W. McDonald, J. McDonald, J. Stubbe.

Island put on clinic at Devon THE PHILLIP Island Football Club has kicked off season 2011 in perfect style, defeating DWWWW by 125 points last Saturday at Devon.

Going into this round one clash, the Island have had the wood over DWWWW in recent years, with an average winning margin of 119 points against the Allies since 2006, including the clubs highest score in the Alberton league in last season’s encounter.

After an unexpected earlier start time due to the reserves game being forfeited by DWWWW, the Island wasted no time finding their groove and put the opposition under intense pressure from the start.

The hard work in the off-season in enticing former players back to the club paid dividends for the Island, with Ben Van Brummelen, Blake Lawrence and Damien Hinkley making successful returns to the club, each kicking four goals and providing the midfielders with quality scoring options up forward.

Another former player making an impact was James Niven, making the most of his opportunities up forward with three goals.

The Island was relentless on their attack on the ball that set the scene for their demolition of DWWWW. Midfielder Adam Stock was prominent all over the ground, with great support from new captain Chris Terlich and the versatile Shane Murdoch. The Island had winners all over the ground in an even team performance that would have put a smile on the face of coach Brett Beaumont.

The run from the Island back half was devastating all day while the midfielders owned their part of the ground, clearly winning the stoppages and extracting the hard ball.

The Island ran the game out well, kicking six final term

Forward thrust: Foster moves forward again.

goals to top off a clinical performance by a bulldogs team that look set for a big season.

A great day by the bulldogs was topped off by first gamer Tom Cole kicking his first goal in senior footy, with teammates quick to congratulate the young Bulldog forward in what was a promising debut.

The Island takes on Inverloch-Kongwak this Saturday at Cowes in a game that the Island will be hoping to continue their early season form and build momentum.

Phillip Island 21.13.139 d DWWWW 1.8.14 Phillip Island best: J. Docherty, D. Hinkley, S. Riordan, C. Terlich, S. Murdoch, A. Stock.

Goals: B. Van Brummelen 4, B. Lawrence 4, D. Hinkley 4, J. Niven 3, S. Murdoch 2, L. Cleeland, J. Docherty, A. Stock, T. Cole.

DWWWW best: L. Borne, S. Becker, S. Urbanic, R. Griffiths, G. Riley, S. Kilgower.

Goals: K. Henderson.

RESERVES

Phillip Island won by forfeit.

UNDER 18s

Top goalkicker: J. Hughes (Phillip Island) 3.

DWWWW best: D. Albutt, T. Williams, B. Vardy, J. Berryman, J. Pintus, A. Parry.

UNDER 15s

Phillip Island 23.17.155 DWWWW 0.0.00 Top goalkicker: B. Johnston (Phillip Island) 7.

Phillip Island best: A. Edwards, T. Lee, M. Manteit, B. Johnston, J. Van Zanen, A. Froud.

DWWWW best: W. McDonald, L. Yodgee, D. Skarratt, Z. Lawler, K. Hanning, A. Moore.

Phillip Island 11.14.80 d DWWWW 1.3.9

• WONTHAGGI TABLE TENNIS

B Grade takes off with nine teams B GRADE commenced last week with a strong field of nine teams.

All matches were extremely close with three of the four match results depending on a decider.

Heitor Hilberto (Warriors) won a marathon set against Donald Milnes (DJ’s) 1210, 19-17. This brought the team’s score to two-all. Jesse Condron (DJ’s) won the decider against Jayden Mendola (Warriors) 11-9, 11-7.

In A Grade the match of the week was between Dutchies (Dirk Holwerda, Fred de Bondt) and Hard Work (Bruce Harmer, Trish Denier). Bruce and Trish won the doubles to take out the match 3-2.

The opening matches in A Reserve were thrillers. The 6-2 result between Let Ball and Odd Angry Shot was deceptive, with many of the sets including both doubles, played out to four or five games.

Four teams have previous A Grade players lifting the standard and making this season very competitive.

Ladders A Grade Hard Work ................ 12 10 (46) Try Hards .................... 8 7 (38)

Dutchies....................... 4 Flying Bats (bye) ........ 0 Zirtex ............................ 0 A Reserve Let Ball ........................ 4 Kicknrs ........................ 4 Maurauders ................ 4 The Young Ones+1 ..... 4 Gen xyz ........................ 0 Balls of Fury ................ 0 Odd Angry Shot ........... 0 KAB ............................. 0 B Grade Sprink Strikes ............. 4 Smash Shot ................. 4 DJ’s .............................. 4 Dominators ................. 4 Smashers ...................... 0 Warriors........................ 0 Lobsters ........................ 0 Spinners........................ 0 Rochelle/Caitlyn (bye) .. 0

5 (24) 4 (25) 4 (25) 6 (19) 6 (18) 5 (16) 5 (15) 3 (15) 3 (13) 2 (11) 2 (6) 4 3 3 3 2 2 2 1 0

(8) (7) (6) (6) (5) (5) (4) (3) (0)

Leading players A Grade: Bruce Harmer 5 (23), Michael Ede 5 (20).

A Reserve: Will Joplin 2 (6), Chris Chetland 2 (6), Jarrod Donohue 2 (6), Nancy Pattinson 2 (6).

B Grade: Brittney Taylor 2 (4), Tanya Milnes 2 (4), Daniel Chetland 2 (4), Heitor Hilberto 2 (4).

Junior competition Round the table: Elly Burns, Harrison Burns, Freddy Mariajoseph. Numbers: Josh Schulz. Singles: Louie Paxton, Freddy Mariajoseph. Hit the bat: Josh Schulz (3).

Onto it: S. Gilchrist sends the ball long for Foster.

Leongatha junior basketball Round 4 Mens: Predros 25 v NBA Ballers 44; What a Team 27 v Magic 47; I Love Richo 19 v Grain Train 30; Burra 54 v Gatha Tigers 37; All Stars 35 v Rollers 42; Cope Robbers 37 v Amberfluids 26.

Round 6 Under 12 boys: Silver 22 v Red 16; Blue 31 v Maroon 2; Black - bye.

Under 14 boys: Silver 34 v Maroon 14; Black 24 v Red 36; Green 26 v Royal Blue 22; White 32 v Yellow 14.

Under 17 boys: Black 29 v Maroon 36; Green 40 v Red 41.

Under 10 boys/Under 11 girls: Silver 2 v Red 9; Royal Blue 19 v Light Blue 9; Yellow 12 v Black 15; Green 2 v Maroon 6.

Under 16 girls: Silver 6 v Red 35; Purple 47 v Royal

Blue 22.

Ladders Round 4 Men Cops Robbers .........180.220 12 Rollers ......................161.607 12 Amberfluids ............ 118.116 10 Pedros ....................... 112.214 10 Magic ..........................129.358 8 Burra ...........................102.041 8 NBA Ballers ..................86.061 8 What a Team .................93.789 6 All Stars ......................843.868 6 Grain Train ....................79.365 6 I Love Richo .................70.290 6 Gatha Tigers ..................54.762 4

Round 6 Under 12 boys Black .........................207.018 Silver......................... 114.118 Blue ...........................124.286 Red..............................61.386 Maroon ......................53.636

18 16 12 10 10

Under 12 boys Black .........................207.018 18

Under 14 boys White ........................145.370 13

Silver.........................124.088 Red............................ 114.907 Royal Blue ................104.762 Green .......................... 99.320 Maroon ........................91.971 Black ..........................75.000 Yellow .........................63.793

12 12 12 11 10 10 10

Under 17 boys Red............................140.838 18 Green ........................147.222 14 Maroon .......................77.209 10 Black ............................ 61.811 6

Under 10 boys/ Under 12 girls Red............................184.375 Black .........................150.909 Royal Blue ................138.298 Light Blue ................103.704 Maroon .......................93.878 Yellow .........................75.806 Silver ...........................61.818 Green ...........................35.714

16 16 14 12 10 10 10 8

Under16 girls Purple .......................167.391 Silver...........................83.088 Red............................141.250 Royal Blue ..................60.440

16 12 9 8

PAGE 58 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Dalyston eases into season SENIORS LADDER W L D

Phillip Island .. 1 0 0 Dalyston ..........1 0 0 Fish Creek .......1 0 0 Kilcunda/Bass .1 0 0 Foster...............1 0 0 Stony Creek ......1 0 0 MDU .................0 1 0 Yarram ..............0 1 0 Inv’loch-K’wak ...0 1 0 Tarwin ...............0 1 0 Toora.................0 1 0 DWWWW...........0 1 0 K’burra-Bena .....0 0 0

%

992.86 790.48 181.36 156.52 128.85 112.73 88.71 77.61 63.89 55.14 12.65 10.07 0.00

Pts

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

GOALKICKERS C. Graham (Dalyston) ..................... 7 M. Rosendale (Dalyston) .................5 M. Standfield (Fish Creek) ...............5 J. Chalmers (Tarwin) ........................5 B. Lawrence (PI) ..............................4 B. Van Brummelen (PI) ....................4 D. Hinkley (PI) ..................................4 A. Sadler (Inv-K’wak) .......................3 A. Russell (Dalyston) .......................3 C. Stone (Stony Creek) ....................3 L. James (Kil--Bass) ........................3 P. McKenna (Dalyston).....................3 A Harris (MDU) ................................3 J. Niven (PI) .....................................3 M. Schneider (Fish Creek) ...............3 C. Sutherland (Yarram) ....................3

RESERVES LADDER W L D

%

Dalyston ..........1 0 0 12900 Foster...............1 0 0 1100.00 Fish Creek .......1 0 0 522.22 MDU .................1 0 0 172.50 Kil-Bass ...........1 0 0 132.69 Phillip Island .....0 0 0 0. 00 Inv-K’wak .........0 1 0 75.36 Stony Creek .....0 1 0 57.97 Tarwin ...............0 1 0 19.15 Yarram ..............0 1 0 9.09 Toora.................0 1 0 0.78 Kor-Bena...........0 0 0 0.00 DWWWW..........0 0 0 0.00 GOALKICKERS

Pts

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

J. Law (Fish Creek) ..........................5 L. Wilkinson (Dalyston) ....................5 B. Vague (Kil-Bass) ..........................4 C. McCaughan (Inv-K’wak) ..............4 M. Boyle (Dalyston) .........................3 D. Langstaff (Foster) ........................3 D. Thornell (Foster) ..........................3 A. Gennaccaro (Dalyston) ...............3 R. Birnie (Dalyston)..........................3 M. Van Boven (Fish Creek) ..............2 J. Jackson (Inv-K’wak) .....................2 D. Smith (Foster) ..............................2 J. Tregear (Kil-Bass).........................2 M. Davies (Foster) ...........................2 J. Everitt (Dalyston)..........................2 M. Smith (MDU) ...............................2 M. Cantwell (MDU) ..........................2 K. Lawrence (Foster) .......................2 T. Harris (Fish Creek).......................2 P. Roberts (Fish Creek) ...................2

UNDER 18 LADDER W L D

%

Dalyston ..........1 0 0 2550.00 MDU .................1 0 0 1087.50 Phillip Island ...1 0 0 888.89 Kil-Bass ...........1 0 0 341.18 Foster..............1 0 0 292.59 Fish Creek ........1 0 0 222.22 Tarwin ...............0 1 0 45.00 Yarram ..............0 1 0 34.18 Inv-K’wak ..........0 1 0 29.31 DWWWW..........0 1 0 11.25 Stony Creek ......0 1 0 9.20 Toora.................0 1 0 3.92 Kor-Bena...........0 0 0 0.00 GOALKICKERS

Pts

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

T. Charles (Kil-Bass) ........................4 C. Hutcheson (MDU)........................4 M. Howell (Dalyston) ........................4 M. Green (Foster) ............................3 J. Goewie (Kil-Bass) ........................3 J. Hughes (PI) ..................................3 J. Dakin (Kil-Bass) ...........................3 B. Hocking (MDU) ............................3 N. Ridley (Dalyston) .........................3 S. Jerger (Kil-Bass) ..........................3

UNDER 15 LADDER

Kilcunda/Bass .....1 0 0 318.18 Foster .................1 0 0 264.71 Stony Creek ........1 0 0 252.38 Dalyston..................1 0 0 0.00 Phillip Island ...........1 0 0 0.00 Fish Creek ............1 0 0 0.00 MDU .....................0 1 0 39.62 Yarram ..................0 1 0 37.78 Inv-K’wak ..............0 1 0 31.43 DWWWW................0 1 0 0.00 Tarwin .....................0 1 0 0.00 Kor-Bena.................0 0 0 0.00 Toora.......................0 1 0 0.00

4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

GOALKICKERS

B. Johnston (PI) ...............................7 B. Hateley (Foster) ...........................7 M. McCoy (Dalyston) .......................6 N. Arney (Kil-Bass) ..........................5 E. Staley (Foster) .............................5 J. Buckland (Fish Creek)..................5 L. Edgelow (Fish Creek) ..................5 R. McGannon (Fish Creek) ..............4 T. Lee (PI) ........................................3 M. Manteit (PI) .................................3

WITH nine new players in Dalyston’s senior side, Saturday’s game was like a speed dating match as players were able get to know each other’s playing style and start to work together as a competitive outfit.

Champing at the bit after a long pre-season, the boys came out ready to play.

Nick Burchell played a dominant game in the ruck from the outset and gave the Daly midfielders first use of the ball.

Kainen Schrape provided the grunt and Paddy McKenna the finesse in the midfield to keep the ball heading into the Dalyston forward line.

It only took 30 seconds before Dalyston welcomed back Alby Russell, the forward marked strongly and goaled within the first minute.

He formed part of a three pronged forward attack along with Chris ‘Cuddles’ Graham who bagged seven goals on debut for his new club and Jimma Rosendale who danced around his opponents on his way to kicking five goals for the game.

The second quarter saw a much more determined Toora who worked hard to close the game up.

While there was a lot of scrambling early, the tackling pressure was good.

When Dalyston were able to get the ball into space it was the drive of Dean Wylie off half back

that set them in motion, as he was able to run the lines to set up play.

The Yea connection was again soon back in action with Paddy McKenna finding Chris Graham on the lead for another goal, followed by the phantom, Luke Walker who hit Chris on the lead for another.

Paddy to Chris again and a pass to Kainen Schrape saw him kick his first for his new club.

While the floodgates were starting to open, Toora persisted and were able to kick their opening goal for the game.

The third quarter was like deja vu, with a goal on the board before spectators had even finished their half time hotdog.

Alby Russell soon had his second and Jimma Rosendale toe-tapped one through from the square to extend the lead.

Toora were able to push forward to kick their second goal for the game.

Chris Graham slotted goal number five and when Dean Wylie found himself floating into the forward line he took his chances, kicking two late goals including an impressive snap courtesy of a Paddy McKenna hand off.

The final quarter was about running the game out to the siren.

McKenna opened proceedings kicking his third and Chris Graham put goals six and seven in the bag to round off an impressive debut.

Dalyston 25.16.166 d Toora 3.3.21 Dalyston best: N. Burchell, D. Wylie, P. McKenna, C. Graham, M. Rosendale, K. Schrape.

Goals: C. Graham 7, M. Rosendale 5, A. Russell 3, P. McKenna 3, D. Wylie 2, J. McRae, M. Grech, K. Donohue, T. Osbaldeston, K. Schrape.

Toora best: A. Green, D. McKean, K. Bundy, N. Green, J. MaurilliPullin, J. Toner.

Toora: A. Green, J. Toner, B. Scammell.

RESERVES

Dalyston 17.27.129 d Toora 0.1.1 Top Goalkicker: L. Wilkinson (Dalyston) 5 Dalyston best: C. Tait, S. Cicala, K.

Maloney, R. Birnie, L. Wilkinson, A. Gennaccaro.

Toora best: L. Ferguson, N. Peake, M. O’Sullivan, S. Prowd, B. McGrath, B. Stone.

UNDER 18s

Dalyston 22.21.153 d Toora 1.0.6 Top Goalkicker: M. Howell (Dalyston) 4.

Dalyston best: M. Howell, J. Alexander, L. McRae, S. Kuyper, T. Landells, N. Ridley.

UNDER 15s

Dalyston 19.25.139 d Toora 0.0.00 Top Goalkicker: M. McCoy (Dalyston) 6 Dalyston best: H. Wright, N. Bainbridge, M. McCoy, J. Legione, K. Kirk, O. Bates.

Tylah Osbaldeston got in on the act, working down from the backline to kick a goal.

Dean Wylie continued to run the game out and from half back he set up Alby Russell, who belted through an impressive banana goal to finish off a pretty good day in the office. In the end it was a good win against an undermanned opposition.

The upside was that the benefit of a long pre-season saw the boys still running on top of the ground at the end of the game.

Killy-Bass keeps Eagles at bay INVERLOCHKongwak and Kilcunda-Bass were two teams desperate to get their seaKilcunda Bass 10.12.72 d Inverloch-Kongwak 6.10.46 Kilcunda Bass best: J. Harris, D. Holmes, L. James, P. Lange, S. Lucas, D. Wells.

Kilcunda Bass goals: L. James 3, J. Wells 2, P. Lange 2, O. Milton 2, C. Endres.

Inverloch-Kongwak best: T. Thornby, B. Dryden, D. Clark, M. Billows, R. Tegg, J. Clottu.

Inverloch-Kongwak goals: A. Sadler 3, A. Nicolson, T. Krause, W. Rankin.

RESERVES

Kil-Bass 11.3.69 d I-K 7.10.52 Top goalkickers: B. Vague (KilBass) 4, C. McCaughan (I-K) 4.

Kil-Bass best: B. Vague, J. Turner, J. Tregear, B. Anthony, Z. Hill, G. Plier.

I-K best: S. Buxton, B. Withers, T. Whelan, C. McCaughan, L. Rankin, R. Minns.

FOOTY DRAWS THIS WEEKEND ALBERTON Round 2 - April 9 Phillip Island v InvKongwak Toora v DWWWW Kilcunda-Bass v Stony Creek MDU v Tarwin Fish Creek v Foster Yarram v Kor-Bena Dalyston - bye

MID GIPPSLAND

son off to a good start.

Not sure where they stood with other teams, both sides tried to assert their superiority from

UNDER 18s

Kil-Bass 18.8.116 d I-K 5.4.34 Top goalkicker: T. Charles (KilBass) 4.

Kil-Bass best: J. Goewie, J. Homer, D. Clay, D. Crawford, D. Chapman, T. Charles.

I-K best: L. Johnson, J. Truman, D. Crestani, C. Allum, J. McCarthy, B. Fisher.

UNDER 15s

Kil-Bass 10.10.70 d I-K 3.4.22 Top goalkicker: N. Arney (KilBass) 5 Kilcunda Bass best: N. Arney, S. Hammond, P. Kavanagh, B. McInroy-Howard, L. May, D. Stafford.

I-K best: S. Hayes, J. Kershaw, C. Casey, L. Kavanagh, J. Dowie, J. Dalmau.

the outset.

The pressure from both teams was intense, which led to players constantly turning the ball over.

This allowed very few opportunities up forward.

Inverloch opened their goal account at the six minute mark created from a slick handball from Adam Cross to rover Adam Sadler.

The remainder of this term was dominated by the respective backlines right up to the final siren where K-Bass resting follower Lange took a strong mark 35 metres out right on the siren.

He kicked truly to leave the scores level at the first break.

The second quarter began like the first: tough

Country football, no quarter given.

K-Bass livewire full forward James opened the scoring with a great goal at the six minute mark.

A couple of minutes later Endres added another.

Centre half forward Wells increased the lead to 20 points not long after.

After this onslaught the I-K backline regained their dominance over their respective forwards.

Mark Billows and Dylan Clark were outstanding for Inverloch in this respect.

They were given tremendous help from midfielder Rhys Tegg, who continually dropped back to give assistance.

The last half of this third quarter was a stalemate until Lange again marked on the siren, this time 80 metres out.

A discretion from an I-K player resulted in a 50 metre penalty for the forward, which he gladly accepted, kicking his second goal after the siren.

K-Bass was 27 points in front at the main break.

James again broke loose, lifting K-Bass’s lead to 38 points with two goals early in the second half.

I-K could not convert the few opportunities they were allowed by K-Bass until Saddler slotted his second at the 15 minute mark.

Young K-Bass forward Milton replied five minutes later.

I-K needed a lift and

they got this from dynamic half back Tim Thornby who played a fantastic second half.

Ably assisted by the consistent duo of Billows and Clark, Inverloch began to turn the tables, kicking the final three goals late in the quarter

by Rankin, Sadler and Krause.

When new full forward Andrew Nicholson kicked his first goal early in the last term, I-K were in with a chance, being only 11 points down.

K-Bass settled, kicking the last three goals.

A spate of behinds by I-K left them with a 26 point loss when the final siren was blown.

200 up for Podge LEONGATHA Football Club will be celebrating a huge milestone this weekend as one of their favourite sons Paul LePage runs out for game number 200.

The match will be played in Traralgon, and is expected to be fiercely competitive, a situation ‘Podge’ knows all too well.

The club will be celebrating by holding a special ‘Paul Le Page Tribute Night’ in his honour.

The night will involve speeches by

past players and coaches, and is for all players, sponsors, supporters and family.

Cost is $25 per head and includes a two course meal and DJ. Leongatha is also busily preparing for its first home match of the season, a game under lights against Maffra.

The club is looking for as much support as possible in order to break its losing streak against the league power house.

The Seniors will start at approximately 7.15pm, with play starting with the Under 16s at 1pm.

Round 2 - April 9 Yarragon v Yall-Yall Nth Hill End v Boolarra Morwell East v Newborough Yinnar v Trafalgar Thorpdale v Mirboo North

Sky game: Inverloch-Kongwak’s Dylan Clark rides high on Kilcunda-Bass’s B. Interlandi.

GIPPSLAND Round 1 - April 9 Warragul v Bairnsdale Wonthaggi v Morwell Maffra v Sale (S) Traralgon v Leongatha Drouin v Moe (S)

ELLINBANK Round 2 - April 9 Bunyip v Garfield Poowong v Koo Wee Rup Neerim Neerim South v Ellinbank Nilma Darnum v Longwarry Nyora v Warragul Ind Buln Buln v Lang Lang Cora Lynn v Catani Nar Nar Goon - bye

200 games: Paul LePage receives a jumper from Melbourne footballers Ricky Petterd and Jared Rivers upon achieving the milestone.

Got him: Inverloch-Kongwak’s C. Maher brings Panther K. Ricketts to ground.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 - PAGE 59

• Stony Creek v MDU

Huge crowd sees Stony home A RECORD crowd entered Stony Creek’s Recreation Reserve on Saturday to witness another close encounter between fierce rivals MDU and Stony Creek.

With gate-takings of over $3000, the crowd was hoping for a bumper clash, and that’s exactly what they got – with Stony Creek running out winners by seven points.

“It’s always good to beat MDU,” said Stony Creek Football Club secretary Kieran Brown.

“It was an emotional game for both clubs, with MDU remembering Donny Epa and Stony Creek Leanne Verboon.”

Both sides wore black armbands on the day.

In a breezy first quarter the Demons took the advantage, using the ball well to rebound from defence and out of the midfield.

They recorded four goals to two in the first, and took the momentum into the first change.

The bigger bodies of Nick Johnson and Clint Johnston of MDU, as

well as Matt Linke, Dylan Zuidema and Jarrad Byrnes were the most effective early.

The second quarter saw the balance of power switch to favour Stony, who were moving the ball more freely and resulted in plenty of scoreboard pressure.

At half time Stony had a lead of three goals and were starting to look like the form side.

With two quarters to play the Demons were looking to release the run of Damien Adkins and other smaller players, while the Lions were planning on finding a way to slow down their opponent’s attack with the breeze.

MDU midfielder Caine Salmon was the standout in the third term, and led the way for his team as he piled on four goals to Stony’s one.

Tremaine Tohiariki was another who starred, making sure that every possession counted.

For the Creek it was the hard tackling Luke Bowman who made sure that MDU was made to earn every possession.

When the third quarter siren sounded the Demons

held a two point lead, and with the wind against them in the last, they were going to need to rally to bring home the four points.

The last quarter became a battle of attrition, with momentum changing to and fro but still no goals registered.

Best on ground Kyle Van Der Pluym was the man to break the game open, kicking a great goal from the forward pocket to put his side in front.

With not long left, the hard fought battle continued as Stony Creek continued to edge in front.

But the only goal of the

quarter proved to be the pivotal one, with Stony Creek home by just over a kick.

For the home side it was relief, for the opponents it was despair.

But no matter who stood at the ground, all could agree that the match was a spectacle to be admired, and a great start to season 2011 for both sides.

Next week MDU takes on Tarwin at home, while Stony Creek will take on dark horse Kilcunda-Bass at Bass.

Stony Creek 9.8.62 d MDU 8.7.55

Schawalder.

UNDER 18s

Stony Creek best: K. Van Der Pluym, L. Bowman, C. Stone, M. Linke, J. Byrnes, R. McKnight Goals: C. Stone 3, C. Langley 2, B. Langley 1, K. Van Der Pluym 1, B. Byrnes 1, B. Bowman 1 MDU best: C. Salmon, N. Johnson, D. Aldridge, T. Tohiariki, L. Smith, D. Adkins.

Goals: A. Harris 3, S. Charlton 2, D. Aldridge 1, D. ADKINS 1, K. Gowers 1 RESERVES

MDU 12.15.87 d Stony Creek 1.2.8

MDU 11.3.69 d Stony Creek 5.10.40 Top goalkickers: M. Cantwell, M. Smith (MDU) 2.

MDU best: B. Spokes, M. Semken, P. Harris, B. Densley, M. Jones, J. McInnes.

Stony Creek best: M. Millar, C. Le Page, M. Shields, S. Browne, W.

Top Goalkicker: C. Hutcheson (MDU) 4.

MDU best: C. Hutcheson, M. Harris, T. Harris, R. Olden, M. Olden, N. Pye. Stony Creek best: D. Potter, J. Stuart, J. Monaghan, J. Densley, D. Tuckett, J. Wilson.

UNDER 15s

Stony Creek 8.5.53 d MDU 3.3.21 Top goalkicker: L. Harrington (Stony Creek) 2.

Stony Creek best: Z. Fiddelaers, T. Stone, D. Enter, J. Riseley, L. Harrington, M. Darmadin.

MDU best: W. Stewart, L. Bourke, J. Van Dyk, M. Olden, T. Hanrahan, J. Graham.

Gotcha: MDU’s Clint Johnston has no way of getting out of this Luke Bowman tackle. Photo courtesy Gerard Bruning@ www.fourcornersframing.biz

• Tarwin v Fish Creek

Fishy starts season well

THE opening game of the season began under cloudy skies in front of a large crowd at Shark Park.

Tarwin won the toss and kicked to the Town end favoured by the breeze, but it was Fish Creek that scored the first goal of the season.

Williamson replied for Sharks. Fish Creek were making the play. Stout defence and strong tackling restricted the Kangaroos to four gaols for the quarter. The Tarwin coach with two late goals reduced the margin to a single goal at quarter time.

Quarter time score: Tarwin 3.1.19, Fish Creek 4.1.25.

Fish Creek were into attack from the centre bounce for an early goal.

Fish Creek were winning the centre clearances and kicking long to experienced forwards Anderson and Standfield. C. Park and new player Schneider were dangerous smaller players.

Fish Creek were out to a 44 point lead entering time on. The Sharks worked hard and scored the last three goals of the quarter to reduce the margin to 27 points at half time.

Half time score: Tarwin 6.2.38, Fish Creek 10.5.65.

Fish Creek were constantly in attack early in the third quarter, peppering the goal. Six points was the disappointing result.

Midway through the quarter, the Sharks finally cleared the ball and from a good passage of play scored the first and their only goal of the quarter.

Fish Creek dominated play and finished strongly to kick the last two gaols before three-quarter time to lead by 36 points.

Three-quarter time score: Tarwin 7.5.47 v Fish Creek 12.11.82.

Fish Creek came home with the wind and were again inaccurate in front of goal, kicking three goals Fish Creek 15.17.107 d Tarwin 9.5.59 Fish Creek best: C. Park, T. Manne, R. Smith, J. Shaw, M. Standfield, B. Anderson.

Goals: M. Standfield 5, M. Schneider 3, B. Anderson 2, S. Sperling, J. Rouda, C. Park, R. Smith, J. Jordan.

Tarwin best: J. McMicking, J. Cann, B. Launder, J. McKenzie-Edwards, C. Lamers, T. Harley.

Goals: J. Chalmers 5, T. Lomax 2, R. Mckenzie-Edwards, T. Williamson.

RESERVES

Fish Creek 14.10.94 d Tarwin 3.0.18 Top goalkicker: J. Law (Fish Creek) 5.

Fish Creek best: M. Van Boven, M. Watkins, A. Ireland, L. Pratt, M. Danckert, J. Kirtland.

Tarwin best: G. Brennan, J. Holloway, K. Duncan-Jones, M. Bell,

six behinds.

The Sharks fought the game out to the end, scoring two gaols. Fish Creek won by eight goals.

Final score: Tarwin 9.5.59 lt Fish creek 15.17.107.

Fish Creek have a mix of experience, local youth and promising recruits and as the season unfolds could develop into a team capable of a strong finals campaign.

Tarwin have lost some experienced players, giving the opportunity for younger players to develop into senior footballers which some players showed glimpses of on Saturday.

Above the pack: Jake McKenzie-Edwards flies high for Tarwin to tap to a teammate.

T. Giroud.

UNDER 18s

Fish Creek 11.14.80 d Tarwin 5.6.36 Top goalkickers: S. Emanuel, T. Smith, J. Flanders, R. Musinskas (Fish Creek), S. Ennis, N. Browne (Tarwin) 2.

Fish Creek best: S. Emanuel, D. Britton, T. Smith, Z. Price, J. Flanders Tarwin best: O. Cumming, N. Browne, L. Thwaites, E. Charles, D. Turner, K. Edwards.

UNDER 15s

Fish Creek 19.12.126 d Tarwin 0.0.00 Top goalkicker: J. Buckland (Fish Creek) 5.

Fish Creek best: B. Harfield-Park, J. Buckland, L. Edgelow, R. McGannon, O. Straw.

Tarwin best: J. Bell, T. Watts, C. Brown, L. Keily, J. Van der Kolk, B. Ellen.

Nimble feet: Fish Creek coach Marshall Livingstone looks for an opening.

PAGE 60 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Big moment: Foster Football club members Shirley McCraw and Bill Davies (second from right) with, from left, Alberton Football League vice president Jim Harry, president John Schelling and vice president Gary Bullen.

Foster’s flying start FOSTER celebrated the unfurling of its 2010 premiership flag on Saturday by recording a first up win in the seniors over Yarram.

The Alberton Football League kicked off season 2011 with some interesting clashes and some clubs showing evidence of player shortages.

Foster again look the goods, although the Tigers were pushed all the way by Yarram which will also be thereabouts this season.

Huge improvement has been shown

by Dalyston, who have recruited well and had a massive win over Toora and District. Kilcunda/Bass defeated Inverloch/Kongwak in a fairly close encounter, Stony Creek got over the line against near rivals MDU while Fish Creek had a big win over Tarwin.

In the final match Phillip Island showed the Allies will be in for another lean year after the Island smashed them by 125 points.

League president, John Schelling, said the opening round appeared to go pretty well, although some clubs were struggling in some grades.

The Allies, who lost the Seniors easily, could not field a team in the Reserves and had to forfeit the match.

Mr Schelling told The Star that the league had written a ‘please explain’ letter.

“Just from what I’ve heard, the Allies thought they had a team in the Reserves but a number of players didn’t show up,” Mr Schelling said.

But the Allies weren’t the only club having issues fielding teams.

Mr Schelling said both Fish Creek and Stony Creek were a bit short on Thirds players while MDU, the Allies and Yarram were having trouble fielding teams in the Fourths.

“Toora was beaten easily in their grades but they have more of an issue with quality than quantity. They have some promising ex-thirds pushing through so they

should improve over the coming seasons.

The match between the Allies and Toora this Saturday should guide us as to how these two clubs are shaping up.

“The eastern end clubs appear to be having the most concern with player numbers as they don’t have the population base to bring in new players.”

This Saturday’s round is shaping up to be a “cracker”. First-up winners Kilcunda/ Bass and Stony Creek will face off on the Panthers home turf.

But the match of the round will see old rivals Fish Creek at home to Foster, both teams having recorded impressive round one victories.

After having the bye, Korumburra/ Bena open their campaign when they travel east to meet Yarram, who are chasing their first win, Phillip Island are at home to the Sea Eagles while MDU is at home to Tarwin. Toora hosts the Allies in what could be described as the battle for the “wooden spoon”. Dalyston has the bye.

Close quarters: Stony Creek’s Brett Mc Knight closes in on Kurt Gowers. Photo courtesy Gerard Bruning@ www. fourcornersframing.biz