The Great Southern Star - December 27, 2011

TUESDAY, T UESDAY, D DECEMBER ECEMBER 2 27, 7, 2 2011 011

$ $1.20 1.20

Free liftout iinside ns side THE TH T HE holidays holi ho lidda dayss are aree here, herre,, and andd the the he mix miixx of of warm warm wa m days dayys and water and an waateer looks w look lo ookks inviting. iinnvi vitiing ng. The ng.

Th T he Star Star St tarr this thi his is we w wee week eek ek ppresents rese re sent se ntss nt its bumper South Coast Tourist News, iitts b bu ump mper per er 444-page 44--pa page page ge S ouuth th C ooast oa astt T ouurist ristt N ri ew ws, s, showcasing showca sh ow wccaasi singg the the places ppla laace cess to to relax relax re llaax and aannd have havee fun ha funn from froom Phillip Phhil P illi liip Island lip IIssland andd through thr hrou oughh to to Yarram, Yaarr Y rram am m, and aannd into iinnto to the the he hills hil illss around Mirboo North.

Jumping into summer: last Wednesday, Dylan Baido, Kaleb Peattie and Luke Zwiersen were making the most of the warm weather at the Korumburra Pool after finishing their school year.

Next week’s Star will be published on Wednesday, January 4 due the the New Year’s Day holiday.

Ambo crisis

By Simone Short

THE REGION could be gripped by a shortage of paramedics as tens of thousands of people visit the coast these holidays.

Ambulance Victoria has allegedly resorted to text messaging staff on annual leave, asking them to fill roster vacancies over the holidays.

According to Ambulance Employees Association Victoria secretary Steve McGhie, messages have been sent to paramedics across rural and metropolitan areas.

“Ambulance Victoria is trying to invite them to come back and work to fill some shifts,” he said.

“We haven’t been informed at this stage as to whether there’ll be additional paramedics working these holidays,

but if they’re finding it difficult to fill the normal rosters, I doubt they’ll have extra staff.”

Mr McGhie said he thinks it was unlikely many paramedics would agree to fill roster vacancies.

“I think there’d be very few willing to do that seeing as it’s the Christmas period,” he said.

“If they get the chance to take time off to spend with their families, they’re going to take it.”

The shortage is a huge concern for key holiday destinations, such as Phillip Island, Wilsons Promontory and Inverloch, with the population across the region expected to double to 120,000 people.

On top of this, an estimated three million tourists will visit Bass Coast over summer, while every year around 880,000 visitors come to South

Gippsland between November and April.

Up to 15,000 people are also expected to attend the Pyramid Rock Festival on Phillip Island for three days in the lead up to New Year’s Day. With no medical services on the island and young people consuming large quantities of alcohol and possibly drugs, Mr McGhie said it was the worst time of the year to face a shortage.

“This issue comes up every year and it’s always left to the last minute, rather than planned well in advance,” he said.

“It’s a peak period of the year when it comes to holiday-makers and festival-goers; these places clearly need additional resources to cope with an increase in demand.”

Continued on page 3.

Police on duty: Wonthaggi Police Leading Senior Constable Stephen Van Hamond, Senior Constable Paul Venosta and Senior Constable Keith Bellinger will be working eight night shifts from Christmas night to New Year’s Day, to ensure residents and visitors have help.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

A CROWD of more than 90 people filled the Korumburra Senior Citizens Centre for a Christmas lunch last Wednesday.

They sat down to a traditional roast for lunch and plum pudding for dessert.

The day was a great chance for everyone to catch up and wish their friends well for Christmas.

Tarago County entertained the crowd after lunch with classic songs the patrons sang along to.

Thanks a lot: Joy Anderson with appreciation certificate recipients Eileen Smith, Nancy Hollings and Coral Bray.

Cake time: the lovely Christmas cake at the Korumburra Senior Citizens Lunch.

Walk opens for summer A WALK linking Walkerville South and Walkerville North will be open in time for the summer holidays.

Parks Victoria has announced the reopening of the Limeburners Walk.

Parks Victoria acting ranger in charge, Bill Gurnett said the track is popular with visitors as it connects two beautiful areas.

“The track has been periodically closed since August 2011 due to a number of landslips along sections of the 750 metre walk. A machine and hand crews were used to ensure a safe reopening of the track,” he said.

The Limeburners Walk takes people past lime kilns used to produce lime for the Melbourne building industry between 1875 and 1926. It also provides access to the historic Walkerville Cemetery.

Parks Victoria will be monitoring the track closely, particularly after heavy rainfall, for any further potential landslips.

The area is susceptible to landslips due to the limestone being removed from the area to produce lime. This has changed the geology of the area and destabilised sections of the cliffs.

“We won’t be taking any chances. If the trail does require to be closed again due to safety concerns, we will have no option but to do so,” Mr Gurnett said.

Parks Victoria has installed an additional set of stairs leading off the northern end of the beach near Bluff Creek, connecting into the trail below the cemetery. This can provide an alternative access to the cemetery at low tide.

For further information, contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre on 131963 or visit www.parks. vic.gov.au

Music men: the team from Tarago County had everyone singing along.

Bodies on show THE Bass Coast Artists’ Society Life Drawing group, the Bass Coast Bodies, is having a mixed art exhibition at the Stockyard Gallery in Foster from January 5.

The group meets weekly at the Goods Shed Art Space in Wonthaggi using a live model to hone their skills in the important element of live art.

Each of the artists is also skilled in their own field of art and they have combined their skills to present an exhibition including all different elements.

With life drawing from the figure, artists are taught to “look, observe, really see” the subject. All of the elements learnt from drawing from the live figure

carry into all of the other art work – painting in all its mediums, plus sculpture, carving et cetera.

The group’s exhibition title, Prime Rump and Mixed Veg, aptly describes their range of work. Prime rump represents their live art (with no reflection on their models) and mixed veg representing all of the other elements of their art.

The exhibiting group consists of Heather Carroll, Jessica Harrison, Jill Hill, Russell Kent, Lyn Landon, Joh McKenzie, Marian Quigley and Wendy Saphin, and they refer to themselves as The Bass Coast Bodies.

The official opening of the exhibition is at 2pm on January 5 and continues through to January 17.

Keen eyes: some of the Bass Coast Bodies during their life drawing session at the Goods Shed at Wonthaggi, from left: Carolyn Landon, Marian Quigley, Jill Hill, Heather Carroll and Russell Kent with Jessica Harrison as the model.

Heather Carroll

Lyn Landon

Jessica Harrison

Joh Mackenzie

Jill Hill

Marian Quigley

Russell Kent

Wendy Saphin

Minister to decide THE development of a massive residential estate and commercial precinct south of Leongatha is progressing.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday voted to ask Planning Minister Matthew Guy to authorise a planning scheme amendment.

That move would place the Southern Leongatha Outline Development Plan in the South Gippsland Planning Scheme.

The plan governs the development

of farmland now bordered by Simons Lane and Boags Road to the south, the Great Southern Rail Trail to the west and Coalition Creek to the east. The northern boundary is the existing edge of town.

The precinct will include bulky goods shops along the highway and housing that is expected to cater for thousands of people.

Council believes residential growth could satisfy the town’s needs for the next 25 years and beyond.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 3

Tourist influx welcome

By Helen Bowering

FROM Phillip Island to Woodside, tourist and camping parks are just about full.

All set: Long Jetty caravan park manager Belinda Kimball is anticipating a successful holiday season.

Baby surprises volunteers

VOLUNTEER ambulance officers delivered their first baby in Venus Bay last Monday, December 19.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteers arrived just in time to bring the baby into the world.

CERT team leader Jenny Hibbert and her CERT partner Lisa Hawkins were called to the house just before 9am.

They arrived within 13 minutes to

find the woman close to giving birth.

“When we arrived, contractions were two minutes apart and within 12 minutes the woman delivered her daughter,” Ms Hibbert said.

The 000 phone operator had difficulty gaining information about the birth as there was no home phone and the only mobile reception was outside.

“Family members were doing a shuttle, talking to the 000 ambulance call-taker and then going in to relay instructions,” Ms Hibbert said.

The baby girl was born healthy and when paramedics arrived, they cut the baby’s cord.

The mother and baby were taken to Leongatha Memorial Hospital and are both doing well.

“It was such a lovely and positive thing to be involved with, especially this time of year,” Ms Hibbert said.

CERT officers are Ambulance Victoria volunteers who provide basic emergency care in remote communities.

Prom still open

By T Tessa Hayward Hay yward d WILSONS W ILSONS Promontory National Park is expected to remain open during the Christmas-New Year holiday period, despite the threat of staff striking.

Parks Victoria staff are not expected to take protected industrial action that would affect the park.

Thousands will T Th ousands of peoplee wi w illl camp at the pa ppark rkk dduring uurrin ing on ing oone ne busiest of the bus uussieesstt ttimes im mes es ooff th tthe he ye yyear ar ar for the region.

Tourism operators will be relieved after losing business while the park was closed after flood damage earlier this year.

Parks Victoria staff who are Community and Public Sector Union members may be closer to reaching an agreement with the government after a breakthrough in talks last Wednesday.

Tens of thousands of tourists will hit towns in the Bass Coast and South Gippsland shires for the busy Christmas and New Year holiday period.

Many park operators are fully booked until mid-January, providing a huge boost to the local economy.

Inverloch always attracts huge crowds during the summer holidays and this year will be no different. Big 4 Inaverloch Holiday Park and Inverloch Foreshore camping manager Carol Adams anticipates another busy year.

“We are fully booked right though until midJanuary and I think most of Inverloch’s accommodation would be the same,” Ms Adams said.

“The New Year week will be enormous in Inverloch. There will be people everywhere and we have fireworks on New Year’s Eve at 9.30pm and that attracts huge crowds.

“Inverloch is a very popular place for holiday-makers, with the inlet and surf beaches providing for all. It is a great place for family holidays. There is just such a good atmosphere.”

This year, Ms Adams is providing a range of activities for children in conjunction with the Inverloch Environment Centre.

“There will be mangrove walks, netting, possum prowls, rock pool rambles and visits to dinosaur digs; and in the park we will run kids’ discos and movie nights, so it should be a lot of fun,” she said.

Ambo crisis tarnishes holidays

Continued from page 1.

Mr McGhie said the shortage may be due to Ambulance Victoria’s poor financial situation or budget cuts leaving it unable to provide additional crew.

Ambulance Victoria confirmed it had put a call out for paramedics on annual leave to work overtime to meet the demand of New Year’s Eve, and said that additional paramedics would be assigned to South Gippsland and Bass Coast to cater for activities and major events.

“A number of paramedics from the Gippsland region have taken up this offer and we are now finalising our additional resources,” Gippsland regional manager Andrew Watson said.

He said additional resources were also being planned for New Year’s Eve on Phillip Island and the south coast.

“Extra paramedics and ambulances have been assigned to attend the Pyramid Rock event on Phillip Island,” he said.

“These crews are in addition to other resources in the area so that we can maintain our normal service delivery to the community.”

Mr Watson also said for the first time, a paramedic would also be based at Wilsons Promontory for six weeks over summer starting Boxing Day, after a request and funding from Parks Victoria.

Meanwhile, other emergency services are increasing personnel in preparation for the holidays.

Bass Coast Police Inspector Glenn Weir said more police are coming, but he would not reveal how many.

“Same as always, we’re supplementing our numbers to provide extra services at various holiday locations including Inverloch, Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory,” he said.

“As well as that, we have a large number of police coming especially for New Year’s Eve festivities around the region.”

Additional police have been sourced from metropolitan and regional areas, beginning last Friday and continuing until the end of January.

Local police will work as normal, however leave restrictions have ensured “everyone will be on deck” over the holidays, Insp Weir said.

With few problems with tourists during the last summer holidays, Insp Weir said police hope for a repeat of last year’s good behaviour.

“We had very few issues with either residents or holiday-makers this time last year and we are keen for that to continue,” he said.

“We’ll be heavily enforcing council bylaws around drinking alcohol in the street.”

Additional staff will also be rostered on at hospitals over the holidays, with a focus on

managing the crowds during major events, such as Pyramid Rock.

“This enables us to cope with additional presentations to the emergency department, which always occur at this time,” Bass Coast Regional Health CEO Lea Pope said.

“Major events often result in an increase in attendances and our staffing is managed to ensure patients are able to receive appropriate care.”

Ms Pope said people would need to be patient during the busy period however, with staff and facilities in high demand.

“Of course in very busy periods there are increased waiting times for non-urgent cases attending the emergency department, as urgent cases will always be prioritised,” she said.

With many CFA volunteers going away for the holidays, Wonthaggi CFA lieutenant Jamie Moresco said a shortage could be a worry.

“We’ve got around 35 active members available these holidays which should be enough, but we’re always looking for more volunteers,” he said.

Mr Moresco said members are preparing for a busy season, with grassland fires a major concern this summer.

“We’re asking everybody to be really vigilant, especially if they’re burning off or having a bonfire and the wind picks up,” he said.

Phillip Island is a popular tourist destination. The Big 4 Phillip Island Caravan Park at Newhaven is full until mid-January.

At Grantville’s French Views Caravan Park, owner Helen Zervopoulos is looking forward to a good season.

“We are already pretty full up with permanents and desal workers, but we are getting a lot of campers booking into the park,” she said.

“I think a lot of people are looking for a cheaper holiday and we are getting bookings from all over.

“A lot of people use Grantville as a base as it isn’t far from Phillip Island, Inverloch and Cape Paterson. We are going to be busy and it is great for the region.”

Waratah Bay Caravan Park has fully booked, with guests from across Victoria.

“The cabins are all fully booked till the end of January, so it is all looking good for a busy season,” the park’s Colleen Clements said.

Port Welshpool’s Long Jetty Caravan Park manager Belinda Kimball said the park is fully booked for the Christmas and New Year.

“We were fully booked virtually by July and August, and last year the bookings really didn’t come in until the September,” she said.

“A lot of people who came to stay during the year booked to come back for Christmas. People come from just about everywhere to stay at the park, from all parts of the state, and we do get people from overseas.”

At the Toora Tourist Park, owner Rachel Brown said bookings are “pretty good”.

“It has been a bit slower than other years but the phone is still ringing and we are filling up fast,” she said.

“The first two weeks are nearly full, with just some small gaps here and there. We still have availability during the middle of January, but this is normal and usually fills up if the weather is kind.”

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Car built with passion

By Matt Dunn TOORA has loads of character and loads of characters.

Car-mad John English is but one.

The Model T enthusiast can often be seen getting around town in his yellow 1922 Speedster, an open-top car that was made for track racing.

John began messing around with cars when he was about 15. It’s a fascination that has held him now for the past 52 years.

“I’ve had this one for about five years. I’ve been doing a bit of work on it and a lot of tidying up, changing the original steering mechanism back to Model T parts. It had a dodgy front steering mechanism on it,” John said.

“I got it registered a couple of weeks ago and now I’ve started to use it. It’s really made for racing – a pair of seats and a fuel tank.”

For John, there is nothing worth

driving and owning but old Fords.

When a passer-by asks him to rebuild a car, John asks: “What have you got?”

The man replies: “I’ve got a VK.” John: “What’s that?”

Man: “A 1985 Holden. I’m building it from the ground up.”

John: “Well you’ve got three problems with that. It’s a Holden and it’s post World War Two and it’s Holden. Believe me, it’ll keep you off the streets.”

John said there were “literally millions” of old Fords “lying around” – a situation that came about through the company’s mass production of the vehicle. It’s a fact that makes restoration and collection a lot easier.

This is not to say the path to taking the stripped and sometimes rusty skeleton of an old vehicle, and turning it back into something that can be registered, is ever simple.

But as John said: “It’s a lot of fun.”

On ya bike: Zach and Matty Teylor, Abby Robins, Silvie Starlight, Tristen Biesse and Jake Palmer are all raring to ride with their new training.

Bike safety time GRADE 4, 5 and 6 students from Tarwin Lower Primary School have been on their bikes over the past few weeks.

Road safety has been the focus in

this year’s Bike Ed sessions, as summer is fast approaching and cycling is a preferred mode of transport for young people.

Turning signals, road rules and bike maintenance have been covered in the sessions that built up to a ride

South Gippsland Water to expand SOUTH Gippsland Water will expand its Foster offices.

On the road: John English loves getting about town in his yellow 1922 Model T Speedster.

Foster faces growth A PROPOSAL to rezone land at Foster will go to an independent planning panel.

The C50 amendment to council’s planning scheme relates to 32ha southwest of Foster.

The applicant is seeking rezoning from Farming Zone to Rural Living Zone, to permit subdivision.

The land is at Fish Creek-Foster Road, and Foster-Promontory Road.

Council received four objections to

the proposal.

Another applicant wants to rezone a total of 21.8ha of land at FosterPromontory Road and Boundary Road from Farming Zone to Low Density Residential Zone.

That could create 38 lots. The applicant has agreed to pay $70,000 towards necessary infrastructure.

Council will ask Planning Minister Matthew Guy to exhibit the proposal – amendment C64 to the planning scheme - for public comment.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday sanctioned the sale of a portion of its land at 20-22 Pioneer Street, Foster to the water corporation.

The purchase will enable South Gippsland Water to expand its office premises, which have reached capacity, on the adjacent land.

“We are keen to progress the sale to secure the corporation’s long term future in the town,” council’s CEO Tim Tamlin said.

“They are a major service provider and Corner Inlet employer, providing significant stimulus to the Foster economy, so this is a highly appropriate use of the land.”

Negotiations have been finalised for the preferred area of land and a subdivision plan has been prepared.

“South Gippsland Water is already occupying the majority of the land via a lease agreement with council,” Mr Tamlin added.

“The additional area of land not currently under lease is to provide for increased car parking bays and exit areas.”

Appropriate access for both pedestrians and vehicles to the community skate park will be part of the design, with fencing installed that will keep the skate park open to public view for the safety of children using the facility.

Mr Tamlin said arrangements like this were extremely rewarding, producing a winning outcome for all parties.

to Venus Bay on December 21.

The students rode along the road and walking track to Venus Bay, and enjoyed a picnic lunch and made their way back to school to round out the school year.

Historical society secures home THE Foster and District Historical Society will continue to be based at the Foster Museum site.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday approved a five year lease site for the site, at $104 rent per year.

Council also supported a five year lease of council land adjoining the museum site, at a peppercorn rent of $1 a year.

Both lease agreements carry the option of a three-year option at the end of the lease.

Cr Mohya Davies supported the move.

“When I was first elected (councillor), one of the first meetings I went to was to that of the society. It’s taken a long time to achieve this result,” she said.

Mayor Cr Warren Raabe was not so enthusiastic.

He believed council should first consider the cost to council of servicing the buildings before approving the lease.

The society was formed in 1973 and in 1978, bought the old Foster Post Office and relocated the building to its current site.

Society members converted the post office into a museum and over the years, have added more buildings and displays.

The society’s website is: www. promcountryhistory.org.au

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 5

Broiler farm first for region

By Brad Lester A CONTROVERSIAL broiler farm will be built at Stony Creek – the first in South Gippsland.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday approved the 400,000 bird, $6 million farm.

Council declared the proposal met planning guidelines and that conditions imposed by council would address objectors’ concerns about noise, dust and traffic.

Cr David Lewis was the only objector, as the decision was made before a gallery crammed with the applicants, the Hanrahan family of Stony Creek, and

objectors.

Eight sheds will be built on 8ha of a dairy farm at 400 Stony Creek-Dollar Road, as well as a machinery shed, staff shed, generator shed, four 20,000 LPG storage tanks and 16 feed silos. The project will be developed over six years.

Cr Jim Fawcett said while he appreciated the Stony Creek community

Water activities: Mungo Moje-O’Brien from Kilcunda and Noah HugtCole from Bass took their body boards to Inverloch last Wednesday.

held mixed opinions, the public needed to “recognise the reality of the modern food industry”.

“I accept there is a range of views but I also accept that it’s a permitted use in the Farming Zone and if we did not permit this use in these conditions, we would not be allowing it anywhere in Victoria,” he said.

Cr Bob Newton said he felt for the objectors but believed five pages of conditions would “cover all of their concerns”.

“It is a rural activity in a rural zone, so I do not think we can go against the officers’ recommendation,” Cr Newton said.

Cr Jeanette Harding held conflicting thoughts.

“From my gut, I don’t like it but I have gone through all the rules and regulations and have listened to both sides of the story.

There are rules we have to abide by. Our staff have gone through everything.

We are here to do what the law says,” she said.

Cr Mohya Davies said that as a “Stony Creek girl”, she could “feel the angst this has brought to the community”.

“I can see the division and I feel it will be some time before this sort of division this application has brought about will be healed,” she said.

“We have to look at the fact this is a major investment. It’s a family

trying to intensify and diversify their farming practices. We have to realise that in the future, food production will take up more intense practises.”

Cr Davies said the applicant would have “an incredible job” addressing the extensive conditions.

Cr Lewis said regardless of state planning policy, council had the right to exercise is opinion.

“This is something the people of South Gippsland feel is not right for the people of South Gippsland,” he said.

Cr Lewis said the shed roofs should not be permitted to be made of zincalume, as is the case with other shed applications to ensure light is not reflected. Permit conditions do specify all external walls should be colour treated and have muted non-reflective tones.

“There seems to be one rule for a whole bunch of people and one for broiler farms,” he said.

Cr Lewis called for permit conditions regarding on-site composting of chicken manure and proposed council defer the issue until that matter was addressed. His motion lapsed after not receiving a seconder.

During the public presentation before the council meeting, Jack Kraan, a consultant engaged by the Hanrahans, said

litter to be used as fertiliser would be composted on-site for up to eight weeks. The litter would be left in a shed to cure for up to six weeks, before being applied to pastures on the farm during autumn and spring.

Mr Kraan said a traffic consultant had found South Gippsland Highway, McKittericks Road and Stony Creek-Dollar Road were able to safely handle the extra traffic created by up 700 truck visits a year.

He said neighbours’ odour and dust concerns would be addressed by

the sheds being 926m away from homes, and the number of birds likely to die would be minimal.

During the public presentation, Sylvia Ashcroft said the broiler farm was an unsuitable use of prime “growing” land for what she termed “industry”.

She wanted to know if council officers would inspect the farm once it was operational. Council CEO Tim Tamlin said that was a job for the Department of Primary Industries.

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Belle of the ball: Zoe McEachern was escorted by Bailey Shannon at the Leongatha Primary School graduation dance at Leongatha Memorial Hall last Wednesday.

Santa’s coming: from left, Brayden Greaves, Madison Ludmore, Josh Allen, Tina Tran, Ryan Sturtevant, Ashley Geary and Mitchell Webb from Leongatha Primary School were hyped up ahead of Christmas last Sunday.

Memorial trees face chop TREES planted in Toora and Welshpool as memorials to the soldiers of World War One could be lopped within the next year.

The trees, some as old as 50 years, are now dropping branches and posing a risk to public safety, Cr Jeanette Harding told South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday.

The Toora trees were planted by the Country Women’s Association but by modern standards, the gums are not suitable along the South Gippsland Highway.

Elms along the highway in

Welshpool are also a safety risk.

“The trees will have to be replaced and it has to be done in a sympathetic manner because it’s a memorial avenue,” Cr Harding told The Star, referring to the Toora trees.

Council’s director of development services, Phil Stone, recently told a meeting of Toora residents to start thinking about what type of trees they would like to see planted instead.

Cr Harding was speaking at last week’s council meeting in response to council adopting new guidelines for caring for trees in towns.

The Urban Tree Management

Guidelines will ensure council has a consistent approach to maintaining, operating around and planting trees.

“For as long as I’ve been here, we’ve been wasting so much of officers’ time trying to sort out trees that have been planted in the wrong place and now have risk factors,” she said.

The guidelines will help council avoid future inappropriate tree plantings and tree management practices to reduce costs to council.

The document includes a list of recommended trees to be planted in urban settings. A register of trees could be developed in the future.

Ready to celebrate: Leongatha Primary School’s Kyle Kennedy and Keira Brown were in the swing of things at the graduation dance.

Great mates: Harrison McGannon and Josh Boler had a great time at the Leongatha Primary School graduation dance, with school mates and familes.

All smiles: Georgia Edwards and Aliesha Wrigley were dressed to the nines at the Leongatha Primary School graduation dance.

Win for halls HALLS at Toora, Mount Best and Hedley are closer to being upgraded.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday voted to apply for funding from the state Department of Planning and Community Development.

Council will also spend an extra $9250 on the halls, bringing council’s total contribution to $34,250, if the state application is successful.

The halls will be upgraded as part of

the Halls Network Development Project, with a total cost of $377,000. The hall committees have raised $60,000 so far.

Cr Jim Fawcett welcomed the decision.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for a group of halls to demonstrate what cooperating can achieve,” he said.

A new roof is needed at the Toora hall, while the Mount Best hall kitchen needs renovation. The Hedley Hall Committee is asking for toilets to be upgraded.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 7

Grant to save Meeniyan Hall

By Isaac McCallum THE Meeniyan Hall has been saved.

A $10,000 grant from the South Gippsland Shire Council, added to a past grant of the same amount, will help towards the refurbishment of the 72-yearold facility.

The expected cost of the total building is around $180,000, with the rest of the money raised by hall committee members through bookings, the progress association and the community shop.

And while the hall does not look so bad from a distance, up close committee member Brian Hoskins assured The Star that work needed to be done.

“It’s all just little things at the moment, but if we let it go too long we could end up having to bulldoze the whole building,” he said.

“And there’s no chance we’re letting it come to that.

“We’re planning on ripping the entire cladding off and who knows what we will find underneath.”

Mr Hoskins emphasised the importance of the hall to the town, and the community.

“It’s the most used hall in the shire. We’ve got around 25 to 30 bookings a month. The hall means a lot to the people of Meeniyan,” he said.

Fellow hall committee member Ethel Hanks agreed: “The hall is used by everyone, from the young kids to the mature age.”

But the hall is not exclusive to Meeniyan, with many out of town and even Melbourne groups using it for social events, concerts and shows.

Mr Hoskins is truly grateful for the support received from the South Gippsland Shire Council given they do not own the land.

“The building is on DSE land, so it’s not a council hall at all. They have no direct responsibility to it,” he said.

Council last week gave an extra $10,000 to the hall committee in a bid to secure a State Government grant - $139,650 - reliant on a community contribution.

Cr Jennie Deane said the hall was vital to South Gippsland.

“The hall is one of the best used, if not the best used, halls in the shire,” she said.

The works could cost up to $186,200. The hall committee has already raised $20,000.

Cr Bob Newton added: “The acoustics are absolutely wonderful and that’s why a lot of events are held in the hall.”

Repairs were originally valued at $100,000 but a quantity surveyor’s report revised this figure to $186,200.

State funding would be sourced from the Department of Planning and Community Development’s Putting Locals First Program.

Mr Hoskins believes the renovations will have no impact on the appearance of the hall, which he says is typical of its late 1930s era.

Day meetings remain SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council will continue to have meetings during the day, despite a bid to return to night sessions.

Council meetings will continue to be held at 2pm on the fourth Wednesday of the month in 2012.

Cr David Lewis called for council to meet at night so workers could attend.

“We are now the only council in Gippsland that does not have an evening council meeting and probably one of the few in Victoria that does not,” he said.

Cr Mohya Davies supported day meetings, saying she had hit several wombats on the way home.

“I believe that people will come to council when there is a significant issue affecting them,” she said.

Thumbs up: Meeniyan Hall committee members were over the moon with a $10,000 grant which they believe will save one of the town’s greatest assets. They are, from left: Richard Powell, David Meikle, Brian Hoskins, Tammy Ball and Ethel Hanks.

Quarry objections fail

By Brad Lester A QUARRY at Leongatha South will be expanded despite neighbours’ concerns.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday allowed quarry operators, Holcim to extend the basalt quarry on Whitelaws Track.

Basalt reserves at the current site are due to run out by the middle of next year. The new quarry has 20 million tonnes of basalt – enough for 40 years.

Up to 500,000 tonnes of basalt will be produced a year.

The quarry will result in economic spin-offs locally of $89 million over the life of the project, and $137 million to the state economy.

Speaking at last week’s meeting, Cr Jim Fawcett described the quarry as an “economic resource the community of South Gippsland had been blessed with and should be utilised”.

He was satisfied the permit conditions and work plan would alleviate objectors’ concerns.

Cr David Lewis backed the proposal, saying South Gippsland needed a reliable supply of bluemetal.

“These resources do not occur

everywhere and the balance of public benefit means this sort of operation has to be able to continue,” he said.

While the expansion would affect neighbouring landowners, Cr Lewis noted Holcim had bought houses close to the property in a bid to alleviate impacts on surrounding properties.

Cr Bob Newton was also supportive, saying the quarry was a major employer.

During council’s public presentation session last Wednesday, neighbour Andrew McCowan said Holcim had agreed to provide him with a “letter of intent” saying the company would provide him with access to water in dry periods.

He had previously told council the expanded quarry would affect a water catchment feeding his dam.

“It would give us more confidence if this was made a condition of the permit,” Mr McCowan said of Holcim’s pledge.

Such a condition was later imposed.

Dairy farmer Brian Trotman said his family had farmed on his property for 60 years and had only experienced issues in the last 12 months.

He said Holcim had neglected to control blackberries, and rabbits and foxes, and that water from the quarry

flowed over Whitelaws Track.

Nobody knew where this water was coming from, he said, not even the peak water authority Southern Rural Water.

“I suggest that we should get the churches out there to baptise people in the miracle water,” Mr Trotman told council during the public presentation session.

“Our country is wet country and that amount of water running through all the time is not doing it any good.”

Mr Trotman suspected the aquifer was being affected by quarrying operations.

The Trotmans’ property will be the closest to the expanded quarry.

The family’s cow shed will be just 360m away. Mr Trotman called on council to impose a time limit for the quarry to operate to avoid disturbing his cows during milking. He suggested operations start after he finishes milking at 8am and end by 4pm, when he begins his afternoon milking.

“I don’t think it is right that our livelihood should be put at risk by these companies coming in,” Mr Trotman said.

At the meeting, council added a condition to the permit that blasting not occur after 4pm Monday to Friday.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Pipi collectors convicted A LYNBROOK woman has been convicted and fined a total of $700 in Dandenong Magistrates’ Court for illegally taking pipis from Venus Bay in January 2011.

The woman was one of a group of five adults charged in relation to the matter.

The family group, from Lynbrook and Narre Warren South, were prosecuted after each took and possessed more than eight times the pipi daily catch limit.

All five adults pleaded guilty to charges which included failing to hold Recreational Fishing Licences. The Lynbrook woman was also ordered by Magistrate Pauline Spencer to pay a further $113 in costs.

Earlier this year, two other

members of the group, who had previous fisheries offences, were also convicted, fined $700 each and ordered by Magistrate Spencer to pay the Department of Primary Industries’ costs.

As first-time offenders, the other two members of the group received fines of $300 each.

The court heard the group took a total of 80 litres of pipi, or bivalve shellfish, from Venus Bay. The daily catch limit for pipi is two litres in the shell or half a litre of meat per person. Unless they have an exemption, people need to have a Recreational Fishing Licence to take or attempt to take fish, including pipi.

The offenders were caught after Victoria Police responded to a report made to the Fisheries 24-hour intelligence reporting line – 13 FISH.

Department of Primary Industries acting senior fisheries officer Trudy Schmidt said Fisheries officers often work with Victoria Police on fisheries related matters.

“Fisheries Victoria is continuing to work with Victoria Police, Parks Victoria, local government and the Venus Bay community to ensure sustainable use of this popular resource,” Ms Schmidt said.

Anyone who suspects illegal fishing activity is encouraged to call 13FISH (13 3474). Helpful information includes the type of offence, date and time, number of people involved, registration numbers of boats and vehicles, and any equipment being used.

All information is handled in Pay attention: a fishing licence must be held to harvest pipis. strict confidence

Mustang, Limousine deliver party BARB Kosakiewcz, formerly of Leongatha, and Perry Stewart were married on Saturday November 19 at Murrumbeena.

Top students: award winners at Fish Creek Primary School were, from left: Carmen Tracy, Dennis McKay, Billy Rogers, Erin Howard, Emily Duffus and Breanna Byers.

Year ends with days of fun AN ARRAY of events commemorated the end of the year at Fish Creek Primary School recently.

A whole school Christmas dinner and a mini-fair provided fun, games and a jumping castle for students on the last day of school for 2011.

Parents and extended families then joined students for a picnic lunch.

The student band belted out a few songs before presentations were made to departing Grade 6 students and award winners.

Principal Robin Smith thanked everyone for their efforts and congratulated

the students for a great year.

School Council Marion Bowron and special guests including Rick Bright and Constable Anthony Wilson of Foster Police presented the year’s awards.

They were: Carmen Tracy, Ann Bright Memorial Art Award; Dennis McKay, the new South Gippsland Radiology Award for aptitude in science health; Billy Rogers, principal’s Blue Light Award; Erin Howard, Jaycees Citizenship and Achievement Award; Emily Duffus, Lance Moon Memorial Improvement Award; and Breanna Byers, South Gippsland Shire Youth Council Award.

The wedding was witnessed by 90 guests and celebrated at the Beaconhills Country Golf Club, Beaconsfield.

The bride and groom were attended by their children, Shannen and James Knight, and Taneisha and Bailey Stewart.

The bride wore a white chiffon floor length gown with a train and cathedral length veil. Shannen wore a black satin floor length gown and Taneisha wore a white chiffon floor length gown.

The bride and attendants carried white roses with blackberries with crystal encrusted jewels weaved into their possies.

The boys wore tailored black suits, white shirts and black ties.

The boys arrived at the

ceremony in Murrumbeena in a blue Mustang, while the girls arrived in a super stretch late model black Limousine, which took the family to their reception in Beaconsfield.

The newlyweds enjoyed their honeymoon at the Crowne Plaza Pelican Waters Golf Resort and Day Spa in Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland.

The family has made their home in Melbourne.

Memorable day: Barb and Perry Stewart arrived at their wedding in style.

Store flooded BIG W employees were ankle deep in water after a warehouse flooded at Wonthaggi last week.

Just before 8pm on Monday December 18, a forklift driver knocked the head off an emergency sprinkler, causing water to gush into the storage space.

The water was turned off after a few minutes, but it was still enough time to flood the warehouse floor.

Wonthaggi CFA lieutenant Jamie Moresco said pallets of televisions and dog food were affected in the flood, with an estimated tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage to stock.

“There was water everywhere; it took the CFA around an hour just to soak all the water out of the warehouse,” he said.

Man arrested POLICE have charged a man after a spate of thefts around the area.

Bass Coast Criminal Investigation Unit detectives tracked down the 33-year-old Toora man and made the arrest on Thursday. He has been charged with a number of burglary and theft offences.

“These burglaries occurred all over South Gippsland in Ruby, Kardella, Walkerville and Korumburra,” Detective Senior Constable Paul Burns said.

“They had been happening over the last month.”

D/S/C Burns told The Star several electronic items were taken during the burglaries, including televisions and computers.

The man will appear at Korumburra Magistrates Court on January 19, 2012.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 9

Quake risk proven

By Jacob de Kunder COAL seam gas mining in the South Gippsland and Bass Coast Shires may increase seismic activity in the area.

The process that may be used to mine - fracking - has been proven to be linked to an increase in earth tremors in the United Kingdom.

Hydraulic fracturing is the propagation of fractures in a rock layer caused by the presence of a pressurised fluid.

These man-made fractures can readjust faults in the earth and cause earthquakes.

“There may be a redistribution of underground forces due to cavities caused by mining and there may be a lubrication of existing faults by water percolating deep underground,” a spokesperson from Geoscience Australia said.

“In both cases, there may be readjustments of the local faults which manifest on the surface as earthquakes.”

The Korumburra area is already prone to tremors and quakes.

“The earthquakes in the Korumburra region of Gippsland most likely occur on the faults which were associated with the development of the Gippsland basin,” the spokesperson said.

“Earthquakes occur

throughout the Gippsland basin but are more concentrated in the areas around Boolarra South, Fish Creek and Korumburra, probably because the faults in these regions are more susceptible to the current compressive forces in the earth’s crust.”

Fracking may cause a case of induced seismicity.

That refers to earthquakes related to human activities such as mining and the construction of reservoirs.

Dairy farmers are already concerned any mining developments in the region could contaminate drinking water for their livestock and remove valuable grazing land.

Public say on pools THE community will be invited to a public meeting about pools in South Gippsland.

South Gippsland Shire Council will hold the meeting about its Aquatic Strategy in the new year.

Cr David Lewis said many Mirboo North people were disappointed council delayed considering the strategy by postponing the matter until its February meeting.

The strategy was to be considered at the December meeting. Cr Lewis said the delay would give the public more time to consider the strategy, which specifies triggers that could result in pools being closed. Such triggers include poor attendance and major plant costs.

Wallaby spooks mother, son A LEONGATHA mother and son knew it wasn’t just Santa visiting when they heard an intruder in their home recently.

They were woken up by noises around 4am and, believing there were people breaking in, fled the house and ran to the road.

They flagged down a passing motorist and borrowed a mobile phone to call the police to their

Jeffrey Street home.

Police attended shortly after and called for back-up after hearing noises in the house.

Imagine their surprise when the intruder turned out to be not a burglar, but a wallaby that had fallen through the dog door and into the house. The wallaby was wrestled to the ground and arrested, before being questioned and released without charge.

Noel, noel: the students from St Laurence’s Primary School certainly provided Leongatha with some cheer in the build-up to the Christmas period, singing outside Memorial Hall.

Rail trail funds sought

by Brad Lester THE campaign to extend the Great Southern Rail Trail from Foster to Welshpool has gained pace.

South Gippsland Shire Council will apply for $2 million from the State Government to build the trail between the two towns, progressing towards the eventual goal of linking the trail with Yarram.

If that application to the Regional Growth Fund is successful, council will allocate $900,000 from its Corner Inlet Tourism Development Project.

The 18.5km gap will include 11 bridges and council estimates to construct the Foster to Toora section would cost $1.28 million; Toora to Agnes $394,000; and Agnes to Welshpool $1.23 million.

The total project would cost $2.9 million.

Cr Mohya Davies said the project was one of the most exciting she had been involved with as a councillor.

Should the trail be extended, council will need to increase its annual maintenance allocation by $40,000.

The Great Southern Rail Trail Committee now receives $36,705 a year from council to help maintain

the 49km trail from Leongatha to Foster.

Council has pledged to make contact with people now leasing the former railway land that could become part of the trail.

“I’ve had a few farmers speak to me and say they should have been brought into discussions, as they do lease the land and have done so for generations,” Cr Jeanette Harding said.

“I do hope that we get the funding that we are applying for, but we have to work with the community as well as the government.”

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

COME to the Mardan Family Dance on New Year’s Eve to celebrate the end of the year and welcome in the new one.

A great night for all the family and everyone is most welcome.

WONTHAGGI CFA will be holding two more fire ready meetings in preparation for the upcoming bushfire season.

The sessions will help community members develop a fire safety plan and address any questions people may have.

The first session will be held at Harmers Haven at 3pm on December 28.

The second will be held at the market place in Cape Paterson at 6pm on December 28.

SOUTH Gippsland residents have helped celebrate McHappy Day’s bumper 20th anniversary this year with Leongatha McDonald’s restaurant raising $5803 thanks to the generosity of local residents.

Community volunteers played a big role again this year, with groups including fire brigades, police and businesses giving up time to help collect donations or providing items to be raffled.

South Gippsland residents also helped make a difference by visiting their local restaurant on McHappy Day to donate money or buy a Big Mac, with funds raised going to Ronald McDonald House Charities.

BIRTHDAY wishes go out to Oliver Leys of Inverloch who will be celebrating his birthday on January 1.

Happy birthday Oliver.

HAPPY new year from all of us here at The Star!

The office will be open again on December 29 and 30 and January 3 in preparation for our January 4 edition, and after then, it’s business as usual for our team.

Remember to drink responsibly and take care if travelling during this busy time on our roads.

A WALKING stick was left in Party Planet in Leongatha two weeks ago and the proprietors are looking for its owner.

Great support: Nagels Pharmacy’s Brett Nagel is extremely proud of Hannah Stallard after her nomination for National Pharmacy Assistant of the Year.

Hannah had previously won the Victorian Pharmacy Assistant of the Year at the Amcal and Guardian Retail Conference Awards in August.

The national awards will be held on the Gold Coast in March 2012.

Hannah is honoured to be nominated and her coworkers are thrilled with the nomination.

She will have to take part in a 15 minute interview and submit a 100 word or less testimonial explaining what winning means to her and what she has done since the state award.

Out, about: the Inverloch Community Hub Walkie Talkies got into the Christmas spirit last Tuesday, wearing Santa hats during their weekly walk in and around Inverloch, including the pier.

If you have lost your walking stick in Leongatha, give Party Planet a call or drop in.

THE Tarwin Lower Primary School community last week farewelled Grade 6 students Fasika (Frosty), Jed, Hailey and Tenika, and wished them well for their futures.

IN last week’s edition of The Star the answer to question three in the weekend quiz was missing.

The answer is five golden rings.

Good-bye Lew: the staff at CFA Prom Country Office in Leongatha held a surprise get together last Thursday for Lew Wilson (pictured) who is leaving South Gippsland Shire Council after 16 years.

The send-off was attended by representatives from a variety of agencies including Victoria Police, Salvation Army, SES, CFA, Bass Coast Shire and DSE, which reflected how highly Mr Wilson was regarded.

He was council’s emergency management co-ordinator and held many committee positions over the years.

His involvement includes the 2009 Delburn fires, Prom floods, setting up of a new municipal emergency control centre and emergency recovery centres.

Mr Wilson is moving to Manningham Shire Council in Melbourne to continue his role in emergency management.

“It will be the people that I will miss most,” he said.

IF you have something to go into Column 7, please email your photos or article to jacob@thestar. com.au.

Judges in the know: Shirley-Anne Wright was pictured in last week’s Star as the winner of the Christmas window competition in Leongatha, and she has three Woorayl Lodge residents to thank. They were, from left, Shirley Strawhorn, Di Farrell, Mary Evans and Warwick Thom.

Taking shape: the cast of Into The Future rehearses ahead of three shows in January. They are Tara Hendry, Phil Aston, Paul Jones, Kate Ball and Darren Cartwright.

Actors step into future EXCITEMENT is mounting in Meeniyan ahead of the next production of Meeniyan Amateur Dramatic Society (MADS).

There are only a few weeks to go before the school holiday entertainment of Into The Future comes to the Meeniyan Hall for a short season.

This show has been planned by young drama students and with

experienced adult help, they selected music and skits.

The theme revolves around science fiction, aliens, robots, the future and space, with musical numbers paying tribute to Dr Who and Star Wars.

There will be show stopping musical numbers and two comedy sketches by renowned playwright Cerise de Gelder. These involve the adults in the show and revolve around the futuristic theme.

This is a fun show for all of the family and that is why there will be two Sunday matinees, January 15 and 22, as well as a Friday, January 20 session.

The evening performance on January 20 costs $20 for adults, and $10 for children and concession $10. Pay at the door.

Seating is at tables, bring your own nibbles and non-alcoholic drinks.

Prom still offers wilderness hikes THE Wilsons Promontory flood recovery efforts have continued to escalate in the lead up to the busy summer period.

Parks Victoria chief ranger at the Prom, Helen Dixon, said the team working on the significant repairs across the park was pleased with its progress.

However, there is still plenty of work to do to complete the number of track repairs and realignments, particularly in the southern end of the park.

“Our focus following the flood event has always been re-opening damaged areas as quickly as possible whilst maintaining safe access and use. We are constantly reviewing the progress of work, predicted weather conditions and public safety in each area,” she said.

The weather forecast over the next couple of months is predicting above av-

erage rainfall for the Wilsons Promontory National Park area, and this has implications for the stability of many currently closed areas.

This information, coupled with a recent independent engineering assessment on the partially repaired Mount Oberon Road, has concluded that even limited public access to the southern area of the Prom remains unsuitable.

Once the current works are complete during autumn, access to southern areas will continue to be limited by the next flood recovery project on Telegraph Track which provides access to the light house.

The project will install three new bridges on the Telegraph Track and bring access for the track up to standard.

For further information, contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre on 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 11

Kustoms set for Island ONE of Australia’s biggest custom car shows - the Kustom Nationals - is on again at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Track.

Now in its 10th year, the event is bigger and better than ever, bringing together car enthusiasts from all over the country for a weekend of fun.

The Kustom Nationals is the Holy Grail of the custom car movement in Australia, when once a year the stage is set for all lovers of modified vehicles to come together to witness the latest offerings of the custom car culture, from mildly customised cruisers to crazy customs.

The 10th Kustom Nationals will be held on January 6 to 8, with a weekend packed full of cars, and rock and roll.

A beach party in San Remo kicks off the weekend on Friday night as hundreds of customs and hot rods take over the township.

The bands will start in the late afternoon with the lovely Phillip Island and Western Port Bay as a back drop.

Saturday is all about the music and you will be treated to the Rockabilly Festival held at the Grand Prix track from 8am till 6pm, with non-stop music from the cream of Rockabilly bands from around Australia.

Sunday is when it’s about showing off and cruising.

The Phillip Island Grand Prix Track is opened up to entrants and it’s time to lap it up looking over the water.

Hundreds of custom cars will be on display while Rockabilly bands provide entertainment.

Customisation is the key so there will be a top chop ‘how-to’ demonstration happening. See an ugly duckling (41 Lincoln Continental) be transformed into one of the best looking

Huge turnout: hundreds of custom cars make the trip to Phillip Island for the Kustom Nationals. shapes. Many of the ‘how-to’ customs from years gone by will be on display as well.

Sunday will also include a plethora of other activities including a pin-

striping workshop, pin up contest, hot rod tattoo contest, model car show and the Kustom Kulture Exhibition.

Cars on display will include pre ’63, ’71 and ’76 sections, as well as

Trade training to advance TRADE training will be boosted in secondary schools in the region in 2013.

Schools were last week told they had received funding from the Federal Government for a Trade Training Centres in Schools (TTC) initiative.

A new computer system will enable high definition video conferencing equipment to deliver courses among South Gippsland, Mirboo North, Leongatha and Korumburra secondary colleges, South Gippsland Specialist School and South Coast Christian College.

Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College anticipates applying for funding next year in round five of the TTC process.

G i p p s T A F E , Apprenticeships Group Australia, National Centre for Dairy Education Australia and Community College Gippsland share in the funding as providers of VET courses.

VET (Vocational Education and Training) students will be able to complete aspects of their courses without travelling.

The initiative will deliver training at Certificate 3 level in heavy automotive, building and construction (plumbing, electrical, carpentry) and agriculture and horticulture courses.

The government gave

in principle approval for up to $7.745 million to be spent on vocational training facilities to address local skill shortages.

The same facilities will open up possibilities for broader Victorian Certification of Education curriculum offered between schools, teacher professional learning and community use.

This announcement follows more than three years of development of the submission at the local level by a committee

comprising representatives of secondary schools, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, Catholic Education, the Local Learning and Employment Network, industry, training organisations and South Gippsland Shire Council.

Now the funding has been announced, the committee will work with the department to finalise the specifications for the project with a view to implementing the TTC initiative in 2013.

rare or highly modified vehicles and all entrants will be judged for awards.

For those younger customisers, lowrider bikes are also welcome, with awards for them as well.

No bring your own alcohol or glass allowed in the venue, along with dogs.

Come down any time on January 6 to 8, but especially Sunday for some full-on ‘Kustom’ action.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

New year wishes

E D I T O R I A L Rail trail win likely SOMETIMES visions only come with patience and in some cases, nearly a decade’s worth.

It has been eight years since the last section of the Great Southern Rail Trail was opened in December 2003, during the Great Victorian Bike Ride.

That was the link between Fish Creek and Foster, and now plans are moving ahead to extend the trail eastwards to Welshpool.

The ultimate aim of the rail trail committee, and South Gippsland and Wellington shire councils, is to continue the trail all the way to Yarram where the Tarra Trail already connects Alberton and Yarram. That trail will also be extended, to Port Albert.

South Gippsland Shire Council will now apply to the State Government for a $2 million grant to enable construction of the FosterWelshpool link.

That application will no doubt be successful given the government has backed other projects in the region and the influence of Gippsland South MLA and Deputy Premier, Peter Ryan.

The rail trail is already a tourism drawcard and a marketable product in its own right, as keen cyclists travel to rail trails and stay at accommodation along the way.

A longer trail will attract more visitors, as cyclists could complete the entire trail or select stages. Plus there are the walkers and horse-riders who will use the trail too.

Past research by Latrobe University has shown that riders on the Murray to Mountain Rail Trail in north-eastern Victoria spent an average $244 a day on food, drinks, transport, accommodation and other expenses.

Tourism in South Gippsland is highly dependent on Wilsons Promontory National Park and while that park is magical, history has shown that should the park be closed, tourism businesses suffer. This region needs another attraction and while the rail trail is a memorable journey as it is, a trail linking Leongatha and Yarram would be an attraction that both rivals and complements the Prom.

Council will surely receive good news from the State Government sooner rather than later.

AS ANOTHER year comes to an end, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish the community a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Like many Victorians, I’m looking forward to spending the Christmas season with my family and friends.

Every year our lives seem to get busier, and that’s why it’s important to use this time to reflect on what we have achieved during the year and what is important in our lives.

This time of year means something different to everyone – whether it’s catching up with loved ones, celebrating the birth

of Christ, or waking up early Christmas morning to open presents.

It’s also important to reach out and support those who may be doing it tough during the holiday season.

I’d encourage those driving on our roads this holiday period to take care.

One life lost on our roads is one too many, and unfortunately we know that the road toll often rises at this time of year.

So take extra time and care on the roads to ensure you arrive safely to your destination, whether that’s catching up with friends and family or reaching your holiday break.

Compliments of the season, Daniel Andrews, Leader of the Opposition.

Fire ready?

IT IS disappointing that Deputy Premier Peter Ryan has chosen to attack Labor for highlighting the failure of his Liberal National Government to implement all of the 67 Bushfire Royal Commission recommendations as promised.

As the Minister responsible for the Government’s Bushfire Response, Mr Ryan should be spending his time ensuring the state is as fire ready as possible.

The failure of Mr Ryan to

ensure that the next stage of the vital emergency alert has been rolled out, the lack of coverage of neighbourhood safer places in the most fire prone communities and the absence of a register of vulnerable people are all examples of why the Minister is not up to the task of delivering on the Bushfire Royal Commission recommendations.

All Victorians, especially those who live in the most fire-prone parts of the state deserve more action and less talk from Mr Ryan in this important area.

Jacinta Allan MP, Shadow Minister for Bushfire Response.

VOX VOXPOP! What is your new year’s resolution?

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.

To finish laying all the bricks for our paving area.

Carol Johnson, Koonwarra

Serenity ruined, says resident MOTORBIKES continue to annoy Moyarra residents seeking a peaceful country life.

Jillian Durance told South Gippsland Shire Council recently the loud noise of the bikes was affecting people’s health.

She said the growth of small acreages over the last 15 years had intensified the problem, as people were now living closer together.

“The noise is stressful and over time, can affect

one’s wellbeing and health.

Once it (bike noise) starts, it just stops conversations and wakes you up from your sleep,” Ms Durance said.

“Approaching neighbours about these issues can be stressful.”

Riders are building tracks, with one track near her carrying up to five bikes at once and another track 12 bikes.

“In some cases, soil and vegetation are being removed to build the

tracks,” Ms Durance said.

“As a consequence of this, the result is increased erosion and dust.”

Ms Durance said recreational riders were affecting people’s ability to operate small boutique farm operations.

She called on council to introduce a permit system for the riding of recreational motorbikes in the Farming Zone.

Mayor Cr Warren Raabe said the issue existed but did not comment further.

Future in Dumbalk’s hands THE former Dumbalk kindergarten will be used by the town’s peak community group to determine the building’s future.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday approved a new lease of the kinder to the Dumbalk and District Progress Association.

That group will develop a community plan that will gauge if there is enough community support for the ongoing use of the kindergarten, as well as volunteers to maintain the building.

The association had already been asked by council to lodge a business case for its use of the site, but the association is yet to do so.

That, said council’s community

strengthening co-ordinator, Ned Dennis, could be due to the association now being part of The Lower Tarwin Valley Project: Strengthening Small Dairy Communities Project.

To produce a plan now would be premature he said, but Mr Dennis and several councillors noted the association could have compiled a plan earlier.

The lease will be for $104 per year, plus GST. The association has been leasing the building since February 2010 and that lease is due to expire on February 13, 2012.

Council owns the former kindergarten at 20 Miller Street. It closed in 2007 due to declining enrolments.

Not to worry about things I can’t do anything about.

George Appleton, Leongatha

I want to stress less and enjoy my family.

Christie Bowler, Leongatha

Health, happiness and to enjoy life as it comes.

Bruce Spiden, Glen Forbes

Industrial vision at last THE hunt for more industrial land in Leongatha is on.

South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday approved a “scoping document” for the creation of a more in-depth

Leongatha Industrial Zone Investigation Study.

The study will review the supply of industrial land in Leongatha and demand “to address perceived undersupply of industrial land”, a council report said.

Cr Jim Fawcett said the

Name means nothing KORUMBURRA residents have opposed their road being named in honour of an Anzac soldier, saying the name means nothing to them.

South Gippsland Shire Council proposed to call an unnamed road off Mine Road, Coade Street, as part of the Anzac Commemorative Naming Pilot Project.

Council is involved in the project to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the Gallipoli landings.

Residents Sandra Calvert and Glen Hathaway told council recently the occupants of all five homes in their road opposed the name Coade Street, recommended to council by the Korumburra Historical Society.

“We all have due respect for the Anzacs but we are in a new area and we would like something that represents a new start,” Ms Calvert said.

The pair suggested “Green Valley Rise” as a name, saying it reflected the surrounding hills.

Cr Bob Newton believed Wills Street to be renamed Coade Street instead, and said he would consult the historical society about that possibility.

Council last week voted to investigate other possible roads to be called Coade Street and also determine an appropriate name for an unnamed road off Patrick Street, Korumburra.

Council also voted to rename unnamed roads and lanes in Korumburra, Leongatha, Jumbunna, Fish Creek, Mirboo North, Bena, Meeniyan, Ruby, Foster, Outtrim and Foster North in honour of Anzacs.

study was vital given the lack of flat industrial land in Leongatha.

“It will identify opportunities for the rezoning of properties so that any prospective industries that want to move into the shire will have appropriate land,” he said.

“It’s been long overdue and I personally believe we have suffered loss because of not having such a strategy.”

Cr Mimmie Jackson said Leongatha was a growing town with a clear need for more industrial land.

Council will seek tenders from potential consultants willing to undertake the project.

• Cr Mimmie Jackson.

• Cr Jim Fawcett.

New drinking laws

MOTORISTS should be aware that as of December 14, penalty notices will be issued for people who drink alcohol while driving, or drinking alcohol whilst supervising a learner driver.

People caught drinking behind the wheel will be given a $244 fine, even if they have a reading of below 0.05.

Wonthaggi Police Senior Sergeant Trevor Vondrasek said people should be mindful of these new laws as well as doing other activities that may distract them while driving.

“You drive for the purpose of driving; if you’re eating or drinking and it affects your driving, or doing anything that affects your driving, you can be subject to offensive careless driving anyway,” he said.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 13

Youth funding YOUNG people will benefit from State Government grants issued last week.

UnitingCare Gippsland in South Gippsland and Bass Coast will receive funding for new Engage! programs. The creative arts and youth group programs will help young people gain confidence and strengthen relationships with family, friends and the community.

Engage!offers volunteering and mentoring opportunities, and study and career advice.

Bag a bargain: Teri Wright of Glen Waverley and volunteer staff Annie Owen from Meeniyan show some of the treasures that can be found at St Peter’s Anglican op-shop in Leongatha.

Volunteers help those in need

By Tessa Hayward ST PETER’S Anglican Opportunity shop raised the fantastic amount of $26,500 in 2011 and donated the entire sum to worthy organisations.

Members sat down together and discussed which organisations to give the money to and came up with several.

“We choose different organisations every time we donate so that everybody gets a

chance,” manager Kaye Littlejohn said.

This year they have donated to the Parish of St Peter’s, the Bishop of Gippsland Christmas Appeal, Christmas Hamper Assistance, Mercy Ships, Philippine Relief Program, Melbourne City Mission and Angel Flight Australia.

“The amount of money is a bit of a record.

It has been really busy in the lead up to Christmas,” Kaye said.

The op shop has clothing, books, bric-a-brac, household goods, sporting equipment, furniture and toys for people to browse and buy.

“People are always donating and bringing stuff down to the shop, it is fantastic,” Kaye said.

Long standing committee members and an enthusiastic roster group are the ones to thank for the great shop.

The work they put into it is outstanding.

Kaye would like to thank treasurer Buffy Nelson, Phyl Davison, and Glad and Les Rintoule.

“The enthusiastic roster group are also a great help,” Kaye said.

South Gippsland Shire Council briefs A MEN’S Shed could be formed in Leongatha. Cr Jim Fawcett recently met with Rolf Taylor and Ron Campbell to discuss the proposal. A public meeting will be held in Meeting Room One, Leongatha Memorial Hall, at 2pm on February 16 to progress the idea.

Cr Fawcett said men’s sheds are becoming popular throughout South Gippsland, and encourage men to talk to other men, develop friendships and improve their health. Men meet at the sheds to build projects and chat, and also undertake community work.

A LONGSTANDING council officer has resigned to take a new position in Melbourne. Community safety manager Lew Wilson will take up a new role as emergency management co-ordinator at Manningham City Council, based in Doncaster.

Mr Wilson had worked with council for 16 years, initially as recreation officer. Cr Jeanette Harding said Mr Wilson would be “sorely missed” by the community and wished him well. Mr Wilson lived in South Gippsland for 26 years and was previously a primary school teacher.

THE Dumbalk and District Progress Association will receive an extra $600 from council, via the discretionary funds of councillors Fawcett and David Lewis. The money will help the association’s quarterly newsletter.

The item came before council as the association has already received such discretionary funding for the same project twice during the current council term. Cr Fawcett said the latest application met council criteria but this would be the last time he would fund the newsletter.

THE new members of the South Gippsland Shire Youth Council have been announced.

They are: Lauren Trani, Daniel O’Flaherty, Brittany Staples, Ashleigh Parr, Michael Dixon, Dean Eddy, Stephanie Sheehan

Gibbons, Emma Hassett, Georgina Williamson, Amy Kindellan, Cassie Willcocks, Grace Kindellan, Billy Ziebell, Nick Werret and Cr Mimmie Jackson.

The youth council has new terms of reference, with the mission statement of: “The youth council will provide an opportunity for young people to express their ideas and views, and encourage youth development and participation throughout the shire.

“The group will advocate on behalf of young people in the wider community with the goal of improving the lifestyle for young people in South Gippsland.”

MOTORCYCLISTS have called on council to ensure the future of the Corner Inlet Motorcycle Club at its Yanakie track. In response to many neighbours complaining to council about noise and dust arising from the track, the club submitted a petition with 700 signatures to Cr Mohya Davies.

The petition called for council to support the club remaining at Yanakie, saying the club provided an outlet for young people and families. Council will consider the petition at its February meeting.

THE owner of a torch used in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Relay on loan to council has asked for its return. The torch was loaned to council in 2000 and has since been displayed in the front foyer of council’s Leongatha offices. The torch passed through the shire in August 2000 and was carried by a local resident.

THE Municipal Early Years Plan 2012-2016 was adopted to cater for the needs of children aged up to eight. The plan aims to increase co-operation between groups in providing children’s services; offering quality childhood and family support services; helping vulnerable children make life transitions; and

providing adequate social infrastructure such as road crossings and footpaths to ensure children are safe.

MANY community groups benefited from councillors’ discretionary funds in November. The Leongatha branch of the Cake Decorating Association of Victoria received $150 from Cr Bob Newton to help make cakes for those in need.

He gave the same amount to the Meeniyan Amateur Dramatic Society to cover the costs of providing entertainment at Halloween at Coal Creek, Korumburra.

Cr Newton and Cr Raabe each gave $200 to Milpara Community’s House Creative Writers to make a CD of short stories.

The South Gippsland Bee Keepers received a total of $1000 to help with establishment costs. Cr Jennie Deane gave $528, Cr Davies $100, Cr Kennedy $100, Cr Newton $100, Cr Harding $100 and Cr Raabe $72.

CR MIMMIE Jackson informed council she was in a relationship with a council officer but did not believe the connection was a conflict of interest. She sought council consent to continue with the relationship, saying her boyfriend did not write reports that came before council. “I will always keep an open mind and make a decision on a case by case basis,” she said.

AN independent member has been appointed to council’s audit committee for a three year term. The term of the existing member expired on November 30 and the vacancy was advertised in the local media.

Council received three expressions of interest. The committee oversees council’s auditing processes. The appointment was discussed in a closed council meeting.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

A regional partnership with the TAC and the Victorian Government.

Don’t ruin new year AT EVERY road accident, police, ambulance and Country Fire Authority personnel have to deal with the carnage involved, whether people have been seriously injured or the consequences have been fatal.

Accident aftermath: Shane Chadwick from Burchell Panels, attends the majority of accidents around South Gippsland and the Bass Coast, towing away damaged vehicles.

Sometimes people forget that there is someone else involved at every road accident – the tow truck driver.

Often left to clean up the road after everyone has left, Shane Chadwick from Burchell Panels in Leongatha has learned to cope with witnessing horrific scenes at car accidents.

Shane said to a degree, he never knows what he is going to get when he is called to an accident.

“Every accident is different,” he said.

“Some are funny; you just have to ask ‘How did you end up there?’”

One incident involved a car nose diving from a supermarket car-park down into another car-park – about a one metre drop below.

The driver wasn’t injured, but when asked how he managed to do it, said “My Navman told me I could go straight ahead, so I did.”

However Shane describes some accidents as “really nasty”.

“Accidents are no good at the best of times, but this time of year, around Christmas, they’re even worse,” he said.

“Especially when they involve a fatality.”

Also a member of the State Emergency Service Road Rescue team, Shane has seen more than his fair share of devastating incidents.

“Sometimes you have to cut people out of cars, or even fatalities and you see more than you really want to,” he said.

“Those sorts of things stay with you for ages; I’ve learnt to turn off, just do the job and switch back on afterwards.

Otherwise you’d just go nuts.”

He said accidents where young people have been killed are some of the most devastating he’s seen, and urged everyone to be careful on the roads during the busy holiday period.

“Drive to the conditions; don’t speed and be aware of driving after drinking or when you’re tired,” he said.

“Also be careful of animals, like kangaroos, wallabies and wombats, on the road when you’re driving in the dark.”

Because this Christmas and New Year, the last thing Shane wants to do is tow away your car after an accident.

TAC sends final Christmas warning AS THE the state’s road toll hovers just above last year’s figure and with Christmas four days away, the TAC has today issued its final road safety warning to Victorian families.

The December 21 – 31 period has historically been a tragic time on our roads, with 58 people dying in that period over the past five years.

On average, about 11 Victorians are killed on the roads in the last 10 days of the year.

In timing with the Christmas break, the TAC has released a new print advertisement reminding all road users

of the consequences of risk-taking over the holiday season.

TAC Chief Executive Officer, Janet Dore, said there were simple steps everyone could take to avoid tragedies this Christmas.

“It’s the time of year when the state moves into party mode, and while we encourage everyone to have a great time, we want you to do it safely,” Ms Dore said.

“Before the Christmas party starts you can take some simple measures to ensure you will be around to do it all again next year.”

The following steps are recommended for Victorians heading to par-

ties in the next 10 days: Organise a lift home with a friend or family member who isn’t drinking alcohol.

Plan your trip home with public transport, or catch a taxi.

If you are on a long trip, take a break or swap drivers if you are feeling tired.

If you are driving, remember that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can rise after you have stopped drinking; and Drive to the conditions, and stick within the speed limit.

“Our advice is that if you are planning on drinking alcohol, leave your

keys at home and choose a safer option because in the end, it could mean the difference between life and death,” Ms Dore said.”

Ms Dore said that while there was still hope of Victoria achieving a fourth-consecutive record-low road toll, unless driver attitudes improved road deaths would continue to occur.

Overall, our road toll is trending downwards but we know the next 10 days can be deadly, and there is no time for complacency,” Ms Dore said.

“The best Christmas present you can give your family this year is to drive safely, take a break if you’re

Dasher? Blitzen.

tired, stick to the speed limit and don’t drink and drive.”

In addition to its ‘Bloody Idiot’ drink-drive campaign, a police enforcement campaign launched in November, designated driver gift vouchers, and the Facebook-driven Slow Ball Challenge, the TAC will continue to target motorists on social media, in print advertising and on radio.

Below is the latest TAC print advertisement developed especially for the 2011 Christmas/New Year period. The advertisement will run in newspapers across the state.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 15

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

By y Tessa Hayward Hayyward SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council orga nised i d a lunch lunchh att Coal C l Creek Creekk organised for council volunteers recently to say thanks for their outstanding support this year.

More than 600 volunteers helped deliver services including community transport programs, the visitor information centres and Coal Creek Community Park and Museum.

South Gippsland Shire Council’s community strengthening co-ordinator Ned Dennis was happy with the turnout.

“It is a great turnout, especially since it is on a week day and is so close to Christmas,” Mr Dennis said.

He was also pleased p eased there was somepl one from just about every volunteer program.

South Gippsland Shire Council Sout So uthh Gi Gipp ppsl slan andd Sh Shir iree Co Coun unci cill CE CEO O Tim T Tamlin Ti li thanked h k d all ll volunteers. l “The community has the energy and potential to change things,” Mr Tamlin said.

There are several different areas people can volunteer in: biodiversity services, community transport, Coal Creek Community Park and Museum, general opportunities, L2P mentoring, Meals on Wheels, youth activities and visitor information centres.

Volunteers make the community work and they deserved to have a celebratory lunch to honour them.

Supporting community: South Gippsland Shire Council volunteers Brodie James, Mitchell Price, Dale Olierook and Alisha McDonald.

Celebratory lunch: South Gippsland Shire Council’s Jan Martin and CEO Tim Tamlin thanked volunteer Vince Sgarioto for his support throughout the year.

Celebrate volunteers: Norm and May McPherson had a lovely lunch at Coal Creek, organised

by South Gippsland Shire Council to thank council volunteers.

Volunteering efforts: South Gippsland Shire Council volunteers Max and Joy Brown enjoyed the barbecue lunch and music at the celebratory lunch.

Carers hit the road FORTY-TWO carers enjoyed a day out, with a little help from the Latrobe Community Health Service, recently.

Catching a bus into Melbourne, the group was treated to a performance of Andrew Lloyd

Webber’s breathtaking new musical, Love Never Dies, at the Regent Theatre.

The sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, includes a 21 piece orchestra, a stunning cast of 36, more than 300 incredible costumes and a magnificent set illuminated by over 5000 dazzling light bulbs.

Leongatha carer Pat Durling, who has been looking after her husband for the past 25 years, said the day was “absolutely fabulous, top class”.

“Sometimes you just need a break.

It’s really wonderful to get out and meet other carers. It really puts things in perspective,” she said.

On the buses: carers, back from left: Rhonda Day, Jeanette Theodore, Martin and Rosie Curwain, Lyn Clissold, Susan Schuhman and Pat Durling. Front, from left: Isabel Trease, Mary Baker and Sheron Considine.

Big thank you: Transport Connections coordinator Fred Boreham and community facilitator Marzia Maurilli served up a feast of barbecued delights to thank council volunteers for their help through the year.

Sausage sizzle: Delma and Ken Dean had a fantastic barbecue lunch with Helen Pearce.

Outstanding support: back, from left, Avis Tilley, Jean Axford and June Farmer. Front, from left, Jenny Vidler, Anne Hopwood, Margaret Holmes and Margaret Gray are some of the longest serving volunteers for the council.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 17

College praises 90 achievers THE Leongatha Secondary College community celebrated the achievements of its students at the school presentation night last Tuesday.

More than 90 awards were distributed for all

subjects as well as extracurricular achievements, leadership and sports.

The ceremony also proved a farewell for assistant principal Tracey Summerton, who has left the school.

Ms Summerton will take up a post at Gisborne Secondary College next year.

Below, Young scholars: the recipients of the Kwong Lee Dow scholarships to Melbourne University were Molly Kuhne and Charlotte Brew.

English experts: students who received awards for English, were back from left: Mark Russell, Josh Gardiner, Sophie Bolge, Kate Ball and Sabrina Jansen. Front: Tailah O’Loughlin-Warr, James Fraser and Taylah Darmanin.

Above, Hands on: VET and VCAL award recipients, back from left: Kienen Hemming, Jamie Tuckett and Chloe Cope.

Front: Tenille Kennedy and Emily Betts.

Right, Maths gurus: Benita Eygenraam, Tailah O’Loughlin-Warr, Chris Grabham, Gemma Martin and Matthew Hayward.

Below, Quiet achievers: back from left: Harley Krause and Jonte Berryman.

Front: Megan Fraser, Kirsten Mowat and Erica Pocklington.

Above, Leadership material: senior school leaders (back) Hannah West, Josh Gardiner, Tailah O’Loughlin-Warr, Renae Moore with junior leaders Stephen Loftus and Emma Wylie (front).

Left, Shining lights: the recipients of this year’s principal’s awards are Alanna Bright and Dylan Westaway. Dylan was also the dux of the college.

Mirboo North SC celebrates 2011 A YEAR of hard work culminated in a presentation ceremony for Mirboo North Secondary College on Tuesday night.

The college celebrated the academic achievements of students in different year levels across various subjects.

In another positive, the school has been named one of the most improved schools across the state based on Year 12 results.

Of all subject scores, an average of 9.7 per cent were in the 40s. This is an increase of 6.7 per cent on last year.

Right, Double trouble: Louisa Pratt and Alice Pratt (twins) both received the Pierre de Coubertin Award.

Alice and Louisa’s commitment to sport at the college was amazing and staff could not just choose one.

Leaders: outgoing school captains Sam Quirk, Jacinta Castello, Lachlan Alexander and Georgia van der Zalm.

Below, Top of the class: Holly Sizer was this year’s dux of Mirboo North Secondary College with an outstanding Australian Tertiary Admission Rank of 97.05.

Ab Above, Great performers: thr Mirboo North Secthree ond ondary College students ach achieved an Australian Tertiar Admission Rank of 90 tiary or higher. They were Jacinor ta Castello, C ta Holly Sizer and Sam Samantha Pua. Rig Inspirational: Scott Right, Ma Marriott was awarded the pre prestigious Caltex Best All Ro Rounder Award for demonstra strating scholastic achieveme across a range of subment jec a willingness to help jects, oth and commitment to others exc excellence.

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Teens receive $9000 in prizes KORUMBURRA Secondary College ended 2011 on a high note with its annual presentation and awards night on Wednesday.

More than $9000 worth of awards and scholarships were handed out, with most funded by donations from local businesses.

Three of the school’s staff announced their retirement. Hank Boltong, Marcia Ryan and Marje Brophy have more than 100 years’ experience between them.

Long time bus driver Bruce Stewart was recognised for 30 years of getting students to and from the school.

Assistant principal Mike Shone said 2011 had been great at Korumburra Secondary College.

Proud principal: acting principal Darren Parker with Defence Force Award winners Daniel Longden, Kate Kilpatrick, Cindy Le Masurier (CORRECT) and Sophie Adkins.

Duxes: from left: Caroline Crawford (Year 8), Michelle Green (Year 9), Jess Staben (Year 11), Blake Johnson (Year 12), Julia Boys (Year 9) and Rebecca Moon (Year 7).

Sports star: Tarli Hillberg received the Pierre de Coubertin Award for sport.

Above: Top student: White Family Scholarship recipient Jess Staben flanked by assistant principal Mike Shone (left) and acting principal Darren Parker.

Hard worker: assistant principal Mike Shone was very proud of Year 12 dux Blake Johnson who achieved the highest score in the region: 98.8.

Music man: Will Crawford took out the Most Outstanding Musician Award.

Zoi leads way ZOI Banikos was named dux of South Gippsland Secondary College for 2011.

She achieved an Australian Tertiary Admisssion Rank (ATAR) rank of 95.6.

Four students received scores in the 90s: Zoi Banikos, Jake O’Hara, Georgia Karavis and Claire Straw. Dr Mark Norman, the head of science at Museum Victoria, was guest speaker at the presentation evening.

He encouraged all students to follow their dreams and described his own passion for marine biology. Dr Norman highlighted the natural significance of Wilsons Promontory and the unique marine life of Corner Inlet, illustrating his presentation with quirky facts and brilliant photographs.

Henry Huggins presented the prestigious Bird Family Trust awards to Year 12 students Zoi Banikos and Ricky Dent to support their tertiary studies next year.

The Bird Family Trust was established by the Bird family of Hedley.

Below: Top leaders: Will Crawford, Kate Kilpatrick and Shelby Arestia received Rotary Citizenship and Appreciation awards for their leadership roles in 2011.

Topped class: Zoi Banikos, dux of South Gippsland Secondary College.

South Gippsland water scam warning SOUTH Gippsland Water has recently had reports from customers who have received calls from people alleging to be from South Gippsland Water.

The callers take a short survey of recipient’s opinions regarding water quality and then proceed to sell the recipient a water filtration unit.

South Gippsland Water spends considerable time and money ensuring that all water in our supply systems is treated and disinfected to meet Australian drinking water requirements and those of the Department of Health,

ensuring that safe drinking water is supplied to all homes connected to our supply networks.

Acting managing director Rob McKaige said: “These telephone scammers who try to convince people to purchase water filters are not new, however the worrying practice of the callers claiming to be from South Gippsland Water and who are using our good name and good will within the community for their own gain is new and disheartening.”

South Gippsland Water would like to assure customers throughout our

supply regions that they do not need to purchase expensive water filters and that all water supplied by the corporation meets strict public health regulations. Anyone who receives such a telephone call from someone who claims to be from South Gippsland Water, but who is using the corporation’s name to sell filters, is encouraged to take down the caller’s details and advise South Gippsland Water on 1300 851 636.

South Gippsland water would appreciate the public’s assistance in this matter in the hope of eliminating such a deceitful practice.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 19

Festive cycling season

By Tessa Hayward LOCAL bike riding groups got together last Monday (December 19) to wish each other a merry Christmas over a delightful lunch at Milly and Romeo’s Cafe in Koonwarra.

The groups, The Grumpies, The B&Bs, The Monday Riders and The Wednesday Group, each have their own pace and day for riding.

The Grumpies have ridden every Monday since 2003.

“They are mainly local rides, 4060 kilometres, but sometimes we do Melbourne tracks,” Geoff Heide said.

They start at 8.30am on Mondays so that they are back in time

for lunch.

“We suit anyone who has done a bit of bike riding and we also sometimes do overnight stays. Earlier this year we rode from Bairnsdale to Mt Kosciusko,” Mr Heide said.

To get in touch with The Grumpies, contact Mr Heide on 5662 4352.

The B&Bs are also known as Bikes and Bakeries.

“We have 12 to 15 riders and it is more of a steadier ride,” Marg McPherson said.

Members take it in turns planning the ride each week and it is their responsibility to let other riders know the course for the day.

For more information on the B&Bs, contact Ms McPherson on 5664 3238.

The Monday Riders are for be-

ginning riders and meet each week behind Tanderra Park in Meeniyan at 9am.

For more details contact Kerry Baggallay on 5664 7440.

The Wednesday Group is known as the faster riders.

“We do about 80 to 100 kilometres at 25km/h with minimal breaks,” Ken O’Neill said.

A text message or email is sent out to riders to let them know the ride and anybody is welcome.

Contact Richard Cartmel on 0412 344 353 for more details.

The Christmas lunch was enjoyed by all and each group is always happy for more members to join and enjoy healthy exercise with great company.

Merry MDU Christmas

Social event: Marilyn and Ken Sim and Rob Stewart had a fantastic time mingling with other bike riders.

THE MEENIYAN community and its neighbours enjoyed red and blue festivities when the Meeniyan Dumbalk Football Netball Club held its first annual Christmas party on December 16.

MDU Christmas Party: Brydie Bourke, Tillani Pratt and Charlotte Harris enjoyed the sunshine.

Kittens at play: Alena Cousins from Meeniyan and Jessica Denvok from Stony Creek made cute cats after having their faces painted.

Sausage sizzle: Joffa Holland manned the barbecue for the evening, serving every sausage with a smile.

With not a cloud in the sky, around 150 people kicked back on the oval and enjoyed the live music of Jeff ‘Dog’ Sparkes well into the night.

A jumping castle and face painting kept all the kids entertained for the evening, while a barbecue guaranteed no one went hungry.

The looks on the children’s faces were priceless when a familiar man in red came rolling into the Meeniyan Recreation Reserve on a cart pulled by two beautiful Clydesdale horses.

Santa mingled with guests and handed out lolly bags to the children, while everyone enjoyed a horse and cart ride around the football oval.

While all good children were tucked up in bed before too late, the ‘big’ kids kicked on into the night.

Face painting: Ja’Kohbi Brewer was a beautiful butterfly at the MDU Christmas Party.

Festive season: Terry Watchorn, Jeff Lee and Ralph Widmer enjoyed having a laugh at the Christmas lunch for local bike riding groups.

Cake decorators create THE members of the Leongatha branch of Cake Decorating Victoria have been busy again this year.

They made 21 cakes to be distributed through Anglicare Leongatha and 140 plum puddings that will be distributed to Woorayl Lodge, the Meeniyan community luncheon, and the Toora and Foster lodges.

The branch is a growing group of interested people who like to learn new ideas about cake decorating.

The vibrant members aged from 5 to 70 welcome anyone interested in cake decorating.

Members thank IGA Meeniyan, Safeway Leongatha, Meeniyan Area Community Shop and Cr Bob Newton for their donations towards the cost of producing these amazing gifts.

“We had four great nights of friendship making these gifts to spread the Christmas cheer,” member Fay Sinclair said.

For further information, contact Fay on 5664 4354.

Proud of efforts: members of the Leongatha branch of Cake Decorating Victoria admire their finished creations.

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

• Kevin and Deborah Scott’s Christmas gathering, Leongatha South • Inverloch Primary School’s opening • Allora Kindergarten concert, Leongatha • Carols in the Drome, Leongatha

On song: Rem Dal Pozzo enjoyed being centre stage in Allora’s festive concert.

Santa’s little helper: Ava Brown was all smiles as she soaked up the Christmas atmosphere at Allora.

Feeling the rhythm: Erika Allen got into the swing of things at the Allora concert.

Costume competition: Andrew ‘Deaksy’ Deak from 3GG radio interviews South Coast Christian College student Naomi in her ‘Mrs Claus’ dress at Carols in the Drome.

Hosts for the evening: Megan ‘Meags’ Harris and Andrew ‘Deaksy’ Deak from 3GG radio were hosts for the Leongatha carols.

Kicking back at the carols: Rob, Vito and Margaret Serafino, and Katreena and Lynn Poletti get into the Christmas spirit.

Delicious cake: Claudia Leys, Harry Scott, Ashley Hewitson, Sam Liefting and Louise Strickland enjoyed the scrumptious cake on offer at the opening of Inverloch Primary School’s new buildings recently.

Beers with friends: Peter Stivic, Trevor Moss and Greg Hogan had a fantastic time at the Scott Christmas party on December 16 at Glendalough Park, Leongatha South.

Bouncing around: Toby and Ryan Zuidema from Korumburra South took a quick break from the jumping castle at the carols.

Christmas cherubs: Mikayla, who won first prize in the costume competition, and Tahlia and Lachlan Occhipinti, who came third, from Leongatha at Carols in the Drome.

Student history: Noelle Green attended Inverloch Primary School in the 1940s and was trying to find her class photo at the school’s 125th celebrations.

Jayda Simpson: the smiley songbird had a great time at Allora Kindergarten’s Christmas show in Leongatha recently.

Family school: Clare Peterson attended Inverloch Primary School from 1977 to 1983 and her mother Ollie Wellings taught at the school in 1966 and from 1976 to 1998.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 21

Tourism secrets revealed WONTHAGGI Visitor Information Centre opened its brand new doors to the public last Wednesday ahead of the official opening early next year.

Volunteers said there were “no words to explain” the improvement the new centre is on the former Watt Street site.

“It gives us a chance to serve a lot more customers and broaden our knowledge of the region,” volunteer Kevin King said.

“People passing through can find us much more easily and we can now cover the whole of Victoria.”

Bass Coast Shire Council tourism manager Ken Hore said the biggest problems with the old centre were its lack of space and difficulty to find.

“What this centre will ultimately

do is provide people with more information and encourage people to spend more time in the area,” he said.

“I think it will help to create a far greater length of stay for tourists dropping in with no real plans.”

The centre will also be included in Tourism Victoria and Destination Gippsland’s lists of visitor information centres around the state, providing Wonthaggi and the Bass Coast with free publicity it previously did not have.

The new facility has also enabled a full time worker to be employed.

Deputy mayor Cr John Duscher dropped by for the unofficial opening and said the centre was something the community could be proud of.

“In the 1980s, they basically worked out of a toilet block before moving to Watt Street, which wasn’t

much better,” he said.

“This new building is very welcoming, clean and airy and is a great work place for volunteers.”

Cr Duscher hoped the new facilities would also encourage more people to volunteer their time at the centre.

The project was made possible thanks to funding from the Federal and State governments, the Bass Coast Shire Council and the Rotary Club of Wonthaggi, totalling around $1.5 million.

Not only is it a great asset to the community and tourism around the region, but to the environment; the building is equipped with solar panels, which are expected to generate more than enough energy to run the whole centre. Planning for the facility began around four years ago, with construction beginning mid-2010.

Big cats at the carols: Sarah Mayo and Jerimiah Evans were matching tigers after getting their faces painted.

Carols not dampened DESPITE less than perfect weather and relocation to the Wonthaggi Town Hall, around 650 people attended Carols by Candlelight on December 18.

Brand new facility: Wonthaggi Visitor Information Centre full-time employee Debbie Adamson, Bass Coast Shire Council visitor service team leader Janette Little, tourism manager Ken Hore and acting tourism manager Teresa Mahood.

★★★★★★★★ ★★★★★★★★ ARIES - March 21 - April 20

You rebound from a recent setback thanks to positive thinking. An invitation to a glamorous event may arrive after the weekend. News of a friend’s success arrives by an indirect course.

TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

A recently made acquaintance may be keeping a secret from you.

Be cautious about revealing too many personal details to him/her.

Perseverance and logic pay off in finance.

GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

Job prospects brighten, thanks to your upbeat approach. Real estate transactions proceed more smoothly. Romance accents its sentimental side. Shared ventures require more study.

CANCER - June 22 - July 22

Major progress is made in resolving a domestic dispute. Romance and travel blend well, so long as priorities are understood. Medical follow-ups should not be delayed.

LEO - July 23 - August 22

This is a good week for overcoming a fear and you may get support from a loved one. Communications are improving. An older person is willing to hear your ideas and your views.

VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

Family matters dominate your time. You may be learning about your heritage or relatives may be in touch. If supporting a position, the time is right to make a pitch.

LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

This will be a great week for upgrading skills. You may consider learning a new language. Children respond positively to ideas. The key is to respect their intelligence.

SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

This week’s focus is on new ideas. Social pressures increase as you play the host once more. Your romantic situation benefits from a friend’s lessons in love.

SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

Follow-ups are essential if the week is to be as rewarding as possible.

Updating skills and revising your resumé is favoured. In romance, you are articulate and realistic.

CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

This is the week for realising your potential in areas of decisionmaking and leadership. Community activities prove more than bargained for. Home life becomes happier and more hectic.

AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

Timing is unusually advantageous this week as you show up in the right places at the best times. If selling an idea, this is the week for making your pitch.

PISCES - February 20 - March 20

Cultural events are highlighted, along with academic interests.

Romance too is featured. This week is favourable for renewing commitments. Avoid a casual approach to matters of health.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are often too thrifty for your own good, but prudence combined with increased generosity could lead to financial strides. You are a loving person and you tend to gravitate towards those of a loving nature also.

Organised by the Combined Churches of Wonthaggi, the carols was a free event to the community thanks to help from local businesses and churches.

St Joseph’s Primary School had the honour of performing the nativity scene for the night.

Alisha Gartland and Natasha

Church Times ANGLICAN: Sunday, January 1: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Contemporary Worship with HC. Wednesday, January 4: 9.30am Woorayl Lodge HC; 10.15am Koorooman House HC; 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. 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; Imagine Christmas Day Service 9am. Contact: Jeff Robertson, 0418 125 832 or Imagine Burwood 9888 7466.

Korumburra Southern Hills A.O.G. - 4 Mine Rd, 10am and 6pm: Sunday. Also Children’s Church and Creche. Contact: Pastor Vic Butera 5655 2478. Youth: Neville Stuart ph. 0407 343 219.

Leongatha South Gippsland Liberty Fellowship - 17 Michael Place, Leongatha.

Sunday services: 11 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 Communion 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: Strongly family oriented church meets at The Grain Store, Mirboo North, Sundays: 4-5.10pm Communion, 5.15-6pm Bible Studies for Adults, Youth and Children. Friday evenings: Home Fellowships 7.30pm; Youth Activities. Enquiries: 5668 2226 Bob Stevens.

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, January 1, 10am. Tarwin Lower: 10.30am (HC). 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.

Crestani were guest artists, and the crowd was treated to a multicultural group of performers from Brazil, South Korea, Papua New Guinea and England singing Silent Night in Portuguese and English.

A free barbecue dinner, drinks, fairy floss, icy-poles, face painting and balloon creations were enjoyed by families.

A number of local groups helped out on the night including the State Emergency Service and Rotary Club of Wonthaggi.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8305

ACROSS 7. Good-looking (4,2,3,3) 8. Agreement (6) 9. Puzzle (6) 10. Flood (7) 12. Hold-up (5) 15. Condition (5) 16. Relation (7) 18. Fish (6) 20. Dignified (6) 22. Happy-go-lucky (5-3-4)

DOWN 1. Document (8) 2. Musical instrument (4) 3. Immediate (7) 4. Map (5) 5. Exhausted (4-4) 6. True (4) 11. Get back (8) 13. Opening (8) 14. Glass (7) 17. Trafficked (5) 19. Woman (4) 21. Dip (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8305 ACROSS 7. Just the same, it’s not a squabble (2,10). 8. Entertain and foolishly agree to accommodate a number (6). 9.

There’s speculation about the man: a conservative (6). 10.

To a degree, people from the north of England are lucky (7). 12. Supply the handle (5). 15. Put off going back to University by a day (5). 16. Flattery from a man who’s about fifty (7). 18. In the role of head of the country, wanting to know (6). 20. Pulling back, achieved victory in it (6). 22. Competitions that can turn the garden into an enchanting place (8-4).

DOWN 1. Stand the lot up against a tree, quivering (8). 2. Just the singer the Stradivarius needs (4). 3. The consequences of having possessions (7). 4. As an author, produced rubbish, we held (5). 5. He dresses like someone who has money to play with (8). 6. William, for instance, is two, you say (4). 11. Many learn it playing an instrument (8).

13. It’s obvious about three quarters have a soap or detergent (8). 14. Running down the work of the roof-workers (7). 17. Not slow to move, like a soldier when there’s beer about (5). 19. Bend the wooden frame (4). 21. Traps the two of us, to a degree (4).

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Drama at coal mine A NEW development by the Wonthaggi Theatrical Company will see the site of the State Coal Mine become a community hub in the town.

President David Wall said construction of a new rehearsal and set construction space was expected to begin in the first half of 2012 and would be funded by the theatre company.

“It’s all coming from our own resources; we used to own a site in Baillieu Street which we sold,” he said.

“We’ve been renting another site in Cyclone Street but we kept the money from the sale of Baillieu and that’s what we’ll be spending.”

Additional profits from future shows, potential grants and fundraising will also help to improve the space over a number of years.

Mr Wall said the coal mine was an ideal choice for the group, with hope to expand and add a performance space in the distant future.

“It offers an area of

land big enough for what we want to do and has the parking already on site,” he said.

“We hope it will become a performance space but that is a very long way down the track. We will improve it stage by stage.”

The rehearsal and construction space will be available for use by not only the theatre group, but other community organisations.

“It gives us a chance to build something we can share with other community groups and that in turn will help us attract grants for the further development of it down the track,” Mr Wall said.

“We will build it for our own purpose initially but it will be available for use by other groups for their own performances.”

A few permit processes still need to be addressed; Heritage Victoria and the Bass Coast Shire Council most importantly.

State Coal Mine operations manager Braxton Laine said the development would be a great asset to the attraction.

“Involvement by the

Valuable additions: State Coal Mine operations manager Braxton Laine and volunteers Steve Harrop and Kevin Bridle are excited about the new developments at the site of the mine, including a rehearsal and set construction space for the Wonthaggi Theatrical Group, and From The Ground Up Cafe taking over operation of the cafe.

Wonthaggi Theatrical Group adds to the community support that got the coal mine to where it is now, protecting a piece of Australia’s history,” he said.

“It will also bring a different demographic here, such as people who have never been interested in history.”

Mr Laine said it may

also cause the volunteer base at the site to “go through the roof”.

“Without volunteer contribution, none of this would be possible,” he said.

Mr Laine also revealed last week that From The Ground Up Cafe would be opening a second branch of its business in the combined cafe and information

centre at the mine.

With a few finishing touches on the info centre to still be done, the new operators are expected to move in early next year.

Mr Laine said the new cafe would add value to the coal mine and give them the chance to hold after hours functions for private groups.

Children lead the way T W E N T Y- T W O young leaders were recognised by Bass Coast Shire Council as part of the Young Leaders Awards Program, fostering young leaders within the shire.

Award presentation ceremonies were held at the Council Chambers in Wonthaggi and in Newhaven on Phillip Island.

Bass Coast Shire Council mayor, Cr Veronica Dowman, who hosted the ceremony in Wonthaggi, said the program has been well supported, with 12 out of 13 local schools

Meals roster (Leongatha) Woorayl Lodge Auxiliary, S. Birch and Lions Club will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning January 2, 2012.

participating.

“The program was available to a maximum of two students per school who permanently reside in Bass Coast and who are either completing Grade 5 or Year 10 in 2011,” she said.

“The program and the awards are a valuable acknowledgment of the achievements of these students at school and in their community.

“It also raises awareness about the attributes we want to see in our young citizens. I was pleased to see so many proud school teachers, family and friends at the ceremony.”

The purpose of the program is to recognise students who display qualities in one or more of the areas of respect, responsibility, friendship/team member, leadership, academic excellence, sporting excellence and outstanding improvement.

“Schools participating in the program received $300 to be credited towards the education expenses of the successful students for the following year’s schooling,” Cr Dowman said.

Award honour: Bass Coast Young Leaders Awards Program winners: Holly McRae, Kirra Marlborough, Kyle Wright, Bass Coast Shire Council infrastructure director Felicity Sist, Jake Roylance, Elly Wingfield, mayor Cr Veronica Dowman, Olivia Peterson, Gabby Bloch, Lily Sharples and Jack Hibbens.

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star 30 years ago, December 22, 1981 LEONGATHA is currently experiencing one of the busiest periods in the town’s history. Throughout recent weeks the streets in the shopping area have carried more than the usual number of people. **** LEONGATHA’s neighbourhood Christmas party was voted a great success by mothers and children alike after an exciting day last Wednesday. The highlight of the day was Santa arriving in a beautifully restored jinker and presenting children with presents.

10 years ago, December 26, 2001 THE discovery of a mysterious grave at the Inverloch Lawn Cemetery recently has baffled authorities. Inverloch Police were notified of the grave’s discovery as cemetery volunteers try to establish who it belongs to. **** MORE than $4000 in gifts and prizes were awarded in Korumburra Secondary College’s annual presentation evening at

the Korumburra Recreation Centre last Tuesday.

Five years ago, December 26, 2006 SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has joined forces with three other councils to have the region drought declared. **** LEONGATHA North couple Rob and Lyn Skillern had the shock of their lives when they received a telephone call warning them their hay shed and paddock was on fire on December 19.

One year ago, December 21, 2010 A MAN was airlifted to hospital in Melbourne after a car surfing incident at Sandy Point on Saturday night. Police saw the Melbourne man, in his early 20s, riding on the boot of a car along the foreshore. **** WONTHAGGI Girl Guides entertained the residents of Wonthaggi’s Rose Lodge nursing home last week.

Nine guides and their leaders delivered Christmas decorations the girls had made and sang carols.

Above, Many fans: Sarah Dingwall (centre) with sister Kim Dingwall (left) and friend Lucy Knox at the exhibition opening. Photo: Peter Richards.

Top, Sharing ideas: Sarah Dingwall chats with Koonwarra artist Anne Pinkstone. Photo: Peter Richards.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 23

Glass art sells at Gecko gallery THE response was what every artist dreamed of.

Sarah Dingwall’s quiet down exhibition at Gecko Studio Gallery at Fish Creek attracted many buyers at the opening recently.

The afternoon was musical, with the sound of glass tinkling as people sorted through a large trunk of ‘secret messages’: tubes of glass sealed at both ends with a strip of paper cut from an old op shop book, with intriguing text.

Among the messages were: “I may yet be able”, “she kissed his eyes, and they sparkled”, “Sea water flew up like shattered glass”, “all the days, all the days of my life”, “buried the gold deeper than ever” and “the fragrance grew stronger”.

Sarah has prepared a large piece of paper on the wall asking people to write something about the secret messages they have picked up - what they say and how they relate to what the text says.

Kids love it, as do all the adults. Priced at $8 each, customers are invariably buying several.

Bubble baskets are small glass containers suspended by string from a gum tree branch, filled with water and containing small blossoms - beautiful and charming.

The exhibition continues until January 21.

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 25

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR�, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

CHARLEY Ann Maree Redmond was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on December 14 to Belinda and Mark Redmond of Sunderland Bay. Charley Ann is pictured with her father Mark and sister Ashleigh. Other siblings are Alexandrew, Bradley, Julia, Luke and Thomas.

BRAX Ryder Considine born on November 29 at Latrobe Regional Hospital, the first son for Ashley and Terina Considine of Leongatha. He is a brother for Iesha, 2.

FARRAH Scarlett Cunningham was born on December 10 at Casey Hospital, Berwick, to Saige Cunnigham and Stephen Mullett, both formerly of Leongatha. Farrah is a sister for Alirra, 4.

Left: MARLON Rory Jackson was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on December 13 to Carly Howard and Paul Jackson of Cape Paterson.

EBONY Theresa Billing was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on December 15 to Jenny and Ricky Billing of Wonthaggi. Jenny and Ricky have four other children Dylan, 12, Mikaela, 8, Brodie, 4, and Tayla, 2.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 27

Hay bale count high

By Jacob de Kunder BALE numbers are up as the hay and silage season draws to a close.

Big season: agricultural contractor Mark Schellekens is happy with the result of the season so far.

It has been a bumper season and late crop, but the high bale count is counteracted by the poor quality of the crop. Agricultural contractor Mark Schellekens is pleased with the season.

“The season’s been brilliant; paddocks have yielded really well, plenty of bales per acre,” he said.

“A paddock that I got 30 bales out of last year I got 100 out of this year.

“We’ve done less acres but definitely getting more bales per acre.”

The start to the season was around six weeks late this year and could have led to the large yield.

“Plus farmers have got

feed, so they were choosing a paddock to do for hay and because they’ve got no stock on there, the crop’s going a bit heavier than normal,” Mr Schellekens said.

“We haven’t really had good hay weather but the numbers are up.”

The end of the season varies across the region.

“Down here at Wonthaggi where I’m based, we have about two weeks to go in the season, while over Meeniyan way it may take another two weeks on top of that because it’s still a bit wet,” Mr Schellekens said Crop quality is down, which counteracts the increase in bales.

“The quality is not as good as in a normal year,” Mr Schellekens said.

“The quality of silage is nowhere near as good as last year, and the hay is probably not as good a quality, but

Take fatigue seriously WITH wet weather holding up harvest in many regions of Australia, farmers are being reminded of the dangers that fatigue can bring when working long hours.

Worthy winners: at the 2011 Lyrebird Awards were, from left: actor and television show host Paul Mercurio with Lyrebird Award winners Liz Clay, Richard Appleton and Bronwyn Teasdale, and West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority board chair Angus Hume.

Nature’s nurturers honoured RECIPIENTS of the 2011 West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority Lyrebird Awards were recently announced at a special lunchtime presentation.

The awards were this year presented to three Gippslanders by WGCMA board chair Angus Hume to recognise their outstanding individual contributions to natural resource management in the region.

Recipients included former WGCMA board chair Liz Clay, Hancock’s Plantation employee Richard Appleton and South Gippsland resident Bronwyn Teasdale.

The Lyrebird Awards acknowledge significant achievements and contributions to protecting and enhancing the region’s natural resources. The awards have been held twice previously in 2005 and 2008.

In previous years, eight awards were presented to community members and groups who were significant and valued champions of community-based natural resource management in the region.

Ms Teasdale created site-specific indigenous planting lists for the entire South Gippsland Landcare Network area long before ecological vegetation classes were developed.

She pioneered direct seeding techniques and practices such as using the RippaSeeder, scalping and the Burford-Seeder,

which are now used across Gippsland and the state.

She has been a positive influence and amazing resource for dozens of CMA, Landcare and Greening Australia project officers over the years.

Her ideas, knowledge and spirit have contributed positively to hundreds of revegetation and remnant protection projects across Gippsland. Awardees were chosen by a board-nominated selection panel that considered nominations from the board, Community Engagement Advisory Groups and WGCMA staff and were based on: • their contribution to natural resource management; • how they shared the learnings and outcomes from their particular practice, skillset or knowledge area, and • interaction with the WGCMA in strengthening partnerships and outcomes for the region.

In presenting the awards, Mr Hume said he was impressed with the calibre of this year’s nominees and narrowing them down had proven to be difficult.

“I’m extremely proud of the level of commitment to natural resource management in the West Gippsland catchment area and these awards are our way of acknowledging all the hard work our community members do on behalf of natural resource management,” Mr Hume said.

Harvesting delays and downgrades to hay quality will be causing some growers increased stress and frustration, and many will be preparing to work long days when conditions permit.

Sheila Payne, executive officer of Farmsafe WA Alliance, said during these long shifts under pressure, growers should be mindful of the increased risk of accidents, which can cause injury to operators or damage to equipment that will set them further back.

Body chemicals and hormones have a direct impact on physical energy levels, and when muscles are weak and blood circulation is poor, energy production is lower and this makes the body feel tired.

Typical causes of physiological fatigue are a lack of sleep, loud noises, poor working conditions and extreme temperatures.

Sheila said steps can be taken to deal with physiological tiredness to lessen the risk of accidents during a shift, including: • stretching and exercising before long periods of work. This will increase blood circulation, oxygen levels and muscle temperature; • plan a rest break during mid-morning and midafternoon; • change positions while in the cab to increase blood circulation and practice shoulder shrugs to relieve upper chest and shoulder tension;

• stand up, breathe and stretch at the end of the harvest row or round; and • eat energy producing snacks throughout the day.

Psychological fatigue on the other hand, can be caused by mental factors such as frustration, difficult decisions, conflicts, delays and even boredom.

Complex decision making can lead to sleeplessness and one of the worst features of mental work is that it keeps a person in a state of excitement late into the evening, which can prevent sleep.

Restful and efficient sleep occurs when the body is rested before trying to sleep. Prepare for sleep by slowing down your level of thinking before retiring for the night, Sheila said.

Emotional strain also produces weariness. Anger, fear or rage sends adrenaline through the body, which increases breathing and heart rate, and when the adrenaline stops, the body experiences exhaustion.

When fatigue hits, it is important to rest straight away. If ignored, it will defeat even the strongest of people in the end, Sheila said.

The Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety has developed a Farm Family Business Handbook Managing the Pressures of Farming.

The publication presents a series of checklists which farming families can use to identify and manage the most difficult pressures on the business, family and individuals. To download the publication, for free, visit http://www. aghealth.org.au/pressures/ The pressures of

Christmas can also increase the risk of fatigue during harvest.

apart from that the numbers are up.

“We haven’t had much good weather, so we’ve had pretty busy days, making the most of it when we’re going.”

The trend among farmers is to stockpile some hay from this season in case there is an upcoming drought or prolonged dry season.

“A majority of my clients have used all their hay from last year,” Mr Schellekens said.

“And now they’re willing to get a bit of a bank going on in case there’s a drought, so they have surplus feed.

“You’ll find that next time there’s a drought, farmers won’t need to be buying as much hay, because they’ll be able to use what they’ve saved up.”

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

Permanent or Part Time

TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Required at Walkerville South from Boxing Day to Australia Day Phone 5663 2224

situations vacant

EXPRESSIONS of interest are sought for a canteen operator at VLE Leongatha saleyards to commence February 2012. Proposals in writing to PO Box 1376, Narre Warren DC, Vic 3805.

Further details contact: Julie 0428-989164. Closing date: 6 January 2012.

UnitingCare Gippsland is a quality accredited community service agency. Staff and volunteers provide a range of community services in Gippsland for children, youth, families and individuals. The Agency has a vision of a healthy Gippsland, where disadvantage and inequity are challenged.

UnitingCare Gippsland has vacancies:

South Coast Child FIRST Integrated Family Services and Child FIRST Worker Full-time – 2 positions Based in Leongatha

South Coast Child FIRST Integrated Family Services and Child FIRST Worker Part time - .06 EFT Based in Leongatha Interviews to be held 9/1/2012 Applicants with field experience and a willingness to gain university qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply Salary Packaging available For further information please contact Cindy Pullar on 5144 7777 Applications addressing the key selection criteria close 30th December 2011 and should be addressed to: Kirstie Pearce HR Coordinator UnitingCare Gippsland PO Box 454 BAIRNSDALE VIC 3875 or email: humanresources@ucgipps.org.au

PARTS TRAINEESHIP Windmill Ag is a long standing Victorian business. Starting as a small service station, and then growing over the years into a multi-store outlet for John Deere tractors and farm machinery, Windmill Ag services a large portion of south western and south eastern Victoria. Windmill Ag’s large service and parts team complements their extensive sales business of farm equipment.

The successful applicant’s responsibilities will be to: • Serve retail customers over the parts counter.

• Answer the phone and assist customer enquiries over the phone.

• Always emit a helpful and pleasant manner to internal and external customers.

• Endeavour to assist the customer in every way possible before sending them to another facility • Maintain accurate paper work and record keeping.

• Ensure all parts are receipted in and out of parts.

• Assist with regular stocktakes.

• Maintain a safe, clean and tidy work area.

• Present the showroom in a professional manner, updated regularly.

• Ensure all orders are given the priority they deserve.

• Work until the job is complete, this may require some overtime.

• Present oneself in a professional manner.

• Work alternate Saturday Mornings • Complete on the job training for Traineeship and attending Trade School as required.

Preferred Attributes • Year 11 pass or equivalent • Machinery/Farming knowledge Position closes 12th January 2012 Please forward application and resume to: Dealer Principal PO Box 231 Leongatha VIC 3953 Jason.henry@windmillag.com.au

TRANSITION MANAGER GIPPSLAND MEDICARE LOCAL Exciting Project Management opportunity Medicare locals are the forefront of change in Primary Care as part of the Health Reform.

Central West Gippsland Division of General Practice (CWGDoGP), East Gippsland Primary Health Alliance (EGPHA), General Practice Alliance South Gippsland (GPA) and Primary Care Partners have been selected to become the Medicare Local for the Gippsland region and will be funded to do this from 1 July 2012.

This role is responsible for project managing the process of transitioning the company structure and business to become a Medicare Local for the Gippsland region.

The role requires a transformational leadership style, excellent communication and negotiation skills, including the ability to initiate and facilitate effective project management.

The position will report to the Chief Executive Officer and will work closely with the Divisions and Primary Care Partners.

Attractive salary package and benefits, including salary packaging.

Enquiries: Di Jamieson on 0417 561 496 Applications close: Monday 9 January 2012 All applicants should include a full resumé, and covering letter addressing the role competencies.

The position description can be reviewed at www.cwgdogp.com.au Please forward application to: HR Department Central West Gippsland Division of General Practice Inc. PO Box 253, Moe Vic 3825 Or email: hr@cwgdogp.com.au

Most photos that appear in The Star can be purchased by calling 5662 2294.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 29

for sale

for sale

VACUUM CLEANER Repairs

DUST BAGS

Sales

FREE

QUOTES

HEN HOUSES - suit 6-7 hens. Ring Denis 56642443.

livestock PULLETS Wednesday, January 18

167 Graham Street, Wonthaggi (opp. Ritchies IGA)

Commercial crossbreds.

Fully vaccinated.

Not debeaked.

5672 3127

12wk (Red, Brown) $14

WONTHAGGI SEWING CENTRE

Available from Elders Past., Leongatha

10.30am Phone 5662 3523 to order now (Brian Larkin Poultry)

HORSE for sale 16hh thoroughbred gelding.

Ridden by 14-year-old girl.

Looking for good home.

Ph: 5664-5405 or 0432552437.

ISA BROWN pullets, point of lay, free range, beautiful and quiet, $20 or price neg. for number. Ph: 0417143218.

free

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

BERRIES, BERRIES Pick your own at Yileen Berry Farm. Open every day, 1345 Yarragon-Leongatha Road, Hallston. Ph: 56685268.

BOAT Savage 4.8, 60hp Merc., ex cond, $21,000.

Ph: 5662-4457.

HAY MOWER Fella SM320, 3m cut, VGC, one owner, 5 y.o. $5,500. Ph: 0432555269.

HAY - small square bales, $7 each. Fully shedded, suitable for horses, never been wet. Quality guaranteed. Mardan 5664-1320, 0428-999691.

HAY - this season’s round bales, $35 inc GST. Meeniyan area. Ph: 0427647219.

situations vacant

accommodation SINGLE professional person seeks midweek self contained accommodation in or close to Leongatha.

Ph: 0431-380089.

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays public notices TARWIN LOWER Market Monday 2nd January 2012, 7.30am - 2pm. Bookings essential. Ph: 5663-7345.

public notices

for lease 5 ACRES Leongatha / Dumbalk, with shed, suit weekender, hobby farmer with few animals. $4,000 per year. Only 4WD access. Ph: 0432-572226, ask for Jag.

for rent INVERLOCH HOUSE for rent. Architect designed house for permanent, long term rental 250 metres from beach. $390 per week.

Available early January.

For photos and details https://sites.google.com/ site/inverlochhouseforrent/ Phone Vicki or Peter on 5662-4458 or 0438522335.

public notices

PUBLIC NOTICE SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL LAND South Gippsland Shire Council (Council) gives notice under section 189 of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) that it intends to sell its land described below (proposal).

The land is a 2,614 square metre parcel of the land known as 20-22 Pioneer Street, Foster, shown crosshatched on the plan below (Land), and comprising that part of the land contained in certificates of title volume 7482 folio 191 and volume 10252 folio 732 shown as lot 2 on plan of subdivision PS648040Y (Plan).

A copy of the Plan is available for inspection at Council's offices by contacting Chris Van Der Ark, Property Development Co-Ordinator, on 5662 9391.

room to let

in memoriam

ROOM for rent, to live with two others, $115/wk plus utilities. Brand new, modern house, a block away from shops. No pets. Phone Kim 0433-333805.

marriage celebrant

Dianne Smart It’s all about you 0427 075 660

Jenny Milkins All areas - 5672 3123 jenny_milkins@hotmail.com

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

PATERSON - Leanne Sharon.

15.3.80 - 1.1.98 Gone but not forgotten.

Deep in our hearts you will always stay, Loved and remembered every day.

Our darling angel up above, To you we send our love.

Your loving mother Daisy, father Norman, brothers Michael, Steven, Shane, Colin, sister Veronica. xo xo xo

deaths

in memoriam

SINCLAIR - Craig Alan.

27.12.08.

Since we said goodbye to you precious Craig, you are in our hearts and our minds in everything we do.

Mum, Dad, Troy and NZ grandparents and family.

message of hope

THE angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds in the field... “Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:10-1.

deaths

WENDY STAYNER 0409 259 195 03 9785 9186

bereavement thanks BEATTIE - The family of the late Brian Beattie would like to thank family and friends for their flowers, cards, phone calls and support during our time of sadness.

Please accept this as our personal thanks.

Email your adverts to The Star ads@thestar.com.au

Paul & Margaret Beck proprietors Caring for our Community, personal dignified service to all areas 5662 2717 Pre-need Funeral Plans available Office and Chapel: 24 Anderson Street, Leongatha hfs1@vic.australis.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

used vehicles

public notices

public notices

public notices

FREE CAR REMOVAL

CHIROPRACTOR

CHIROPRACTOR NORMAN G. VRADENBURG

Dr R.P. Delbridge Dental Surgery

“NON-FORCE PRACTITIONER”

Falls Rd,Fish Creek 3959 Phone 5683 2292

Garry Harrison 19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson

Will pay up to $300 for complete car Buyers of scrap metal Bass Coast Metal Recyclers

Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday

5672 2946 0417 556 593

By appointment Ph: 5674 8290

All machinery Bins provided

HOLDEN CRUZE AWD, 5 speed man. 2002, first rego 2003 (SBJ309), one owner, 109,000km, Suzuki motor, RWC, $6,800 ONO. 56622842, 0427-300537.

situations vacant

UnitingCare Gippsland is a quality accredited community service agency. Staff and volunteers provide a range of community services in Gippsland for children, youth, families and individuals. The Agency has a vision of a healthy Gippsland, where disadvantage and inequity are challenged.

UnitingCare Gippsland has the following vacancy:

St Andrews Child Care Centre CENTRE CO-ORDINATOR Full-time Based in Mirboo North Interviews to be held 13th January 2012 Applicants with Early Childhood qualifications and previous early childhood management experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

Salary Packaging available For further information please contact Leanne Coupland on 5662 5150.

An application form and the Position Description can be found on our Website: www.ucgipps.org.au Applications addressing the key selection criteria close 9th January 2012 and should be addressed to: Kirstie Pearce HR Coordinator UnitingCare Gippsland PO Box 454 BAIRNSDALE VIC 3875 or email: humanresources@ucgipps.org.au

The proposal is that the Land be sold by private treaty to the owner of the adjoining land, South Gippsland Water Corporation.

The principal terms of the Contract of Sale will be: 1. Payment of a deposit of 10% of the price payable on the day of sale.

2. Settlement will take place the later of: i. 14 days after Council gives notice to the purchaser of the registration of the Plan at the Land Registry; ii Council obtaining an access licence from the Department of Sustainability and Environment over part of the adjoining Crown land; and iii 14 days after the purchaser lodges an application with Council to rezone the Land from a Public Use Zone 7 to a Public Use Zone 3.

A person may make a submission on the proposal.

Any person proposing to make a submission under section 223 of the Act must do so on or before 5pm Wednesday January 25, 2012.

All submissions will be considered in accordance with section 223 of the Act. Submissions must be in writing, addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and be hand delivered to Council's Office at 9 Smith Street, Leongatha or posted to the following address: The Chief Executive Officer South Gippsland Shire Council Private Bag 4 Leongatha VIC 3953 Any person requesting in their submission to be heard in support of his or her submission is entitled to be heard before Council (or a Committee established by Council for this purpose) or be represented by a person acting on his or her behalf, and will be notified of the time and date of the hearing.

Tim Tamlin Chief Executive Officer

28 Reilly Street, INVERLOCH HOURS - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday by appointment Phone and fax 5674 3666 South Gippsland Chiropractic Services & Adjunctive Therapies P/L

Wishes to advise the surgery will be closed until Tuesday January 31, 2012 Happy New Year to all

Mail Poll for Berrys Creek Australia Post is undertaking a review of the mail delivery arrangements for Berrys Creek which does not currently receive a street mail delivery service.

The review will be done by a mail poll. Residents at all eligible delivery points will be asked whether they want a mail delivery service to be introduced, or would prefer to maintain their existing arrangements, where mail is collected over the counter at the Leongatha Post Office or from a reduced rate Post Office Box. The purpose of the poll is to determine the method of delivery that best suits the majority of residents in the Berrys Creek community.

The polling process is used to ensure that Australia Post deals with all similar requests in a fair and equitable manner. It is designed to prevent a situation where a minority of residents could bring about a change to existing arrangements, which has cost and convenience impacts for all residents.

The polling will begin on Tuesday 20 December and close on Friday 20 January 2011.

Eligible residents will have a polling letter hand delivered to their home, which they should read thoroughly, complete and return to Australia Post by the closing date.

All residents in the areas polled are urged by Australia Post to have their say. Importantly, if people do not respond, it will be assumed that they want the current arrangements to remain.

A mail delivery service will only be introduced in Berrys Creek if the poll indicates that more than 50 per cent of eligible households want this change to occur.

For further information contact the Leongatha Delivery Centre on 03 5662 5694.

AG57710

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - PAGE 31

Classic tennis event is back THE annual South Tennis Gippsland Classic is set to be huge next year, with event organiser Matt Pocklington hoping for at least 100 entries.

Game, set: Matt Pocklington and Justin Krohn are looking forward to next year’s South Gippsland Tennis Classic from January 4-6.

WEDNESDAY December 21 saw the last of the 2011 year’s Leongatha monthly affiliated triples in action, with some reduction in the number of teams entered due to the time of the year and the demand on time associated with the Christmas / new year break just around the corner.

Nevertheless, while the entries might have been down, the day was full of keen competition.

Winners on the day were the Leongatha team of Jack Kuiper, Trish McCormack and Graeme Drury with four wins plus 27.

Runners-up also with four wins plus 25, the Mirboo North team of Bert Bright, Bill McCartin and Don Bourke.

Best last game with a score of 12 shots up was taken out by another Leongatha team of Rex Withers, Barry Davidson and Ray Saunders.

Leongatha bowls Sponsor for the day was Nikolina’s Florist of Leongatha, and a representative of the business was able to be present at the conclusion of the day’s play to make the presentation to the various winners. The club sincerely thanks Nicolina’s Florist for its very valued support to the club.

The John O’Connor wine was won by a Foster team of Marco, Julie and Nancy who went home very happy with the spoils.

The club expresses their thanks to Leongatha Kitchens who sponsored the raffle for the day.

The club’s Christmas raffle was drawn at the end of the day’s play and the winners were: 1st prize Irene Hill of Meeniyan, 2nd prize AnneMarie Lye of Leongatha, 3rd David

Bee of Leongatha, 4th P. Scammel of Corinella and 5th went to club board secretary, Graham Greenway.

The club thanks all those who purchased tickets in this year’s Christmas raffle for your support and extends the season’s best wishes to all.

The first of the club’s monthly affiliated triples for the year 2012 will be held on Wednesday January 25, with a 9.30am start.

Don’t forget Sunday January 8 will see the Rod Nicholson Memorial pairs tournament in action; Tuesday January 10 sees the resumption of pennant for our ladies’ teams; Friday January 13 will see our ladies’ president’s invitation day bowls in action, and the men’s pennant will recommence on

Saturday January 21.

I have just received the great news about the success of two of our club’s lady bowlers and the club is very proud of these two ladies.

Congratulations are in order to Pam Kennedy and Fay Turner. These two ladies won the South Gippsland district champion of champions ladies’ pairs at a recent two day event, with I understand, these two ladies winning their two games on day one and on day two, and also the grand final played against a Wonthaggi ladies’ pair on the last end.

Our ladies were leading by one shot only and managed to score a further shot on the last end, winning overall by just two shots.

Well done Pam and Fay on your great success.

Until the next report, good bowling - Jackhigh.

Don’t miss triple treat LOCALS hoping to attend Stony Creek’s Triple Treat marquee have until December 30 to book their place.

The ladies event, organised by local identity Kate Adkins from Events by Kate, is promising to be a special one.

It marks the 25 year anniversary of the famous Stony Creek triple dead heat, when judges could not separate Fast Seal, Mr Spectre and Chesterfield.

This historic triple dead heat is one of only three to have occurred in Australia, and the only one at a Victorian country racetrack.

There will again be excitement and buzz around the track at Stony Creek with the Tasting, Grazing and Racing meet on Monday January 9, 2012.

Inside the decorated Triple Treat Marquee will be local wines and tastings from a trio of wineries, gourmet food from Brent Sinclair and entertainment by Marty Box as well as a guest speaker.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase a special set of what South Gippsland has to offer,” Kate said.

An all inclusive ticket is priced at $90 for Members of the Club and $100 for nonmembers.

The 2011 Fashion on the Fields winner Nicole Salmon of Body First Health and Fitness is delighted to be the face of the event.

Nicole’s outfit is styled by Influence on Dusk and her fascinator by Sasha Holderhead Designs.

For enquiries or ticket purchase please contact Kate Adkins on 0419 599 309 or kate@eventsbykate.com.au or Stony Creek Racing Club

on 5664 0099.

Tickets will also be available for purchase at the following businesses: The Duck Hutt – Meeniyan, Stockdale and Leggo – Leongatha and Inverloch.

Contestants from Melbourne as well as East and West Gippsland are expected to participate, and of course plenty of emerging local talent.

Leongatha will be the main host of the event, which runs from January 4-6, 2012.

Inverloch courts will also be used, with players competing in seven different sections.

There will be an open level, as well as Section 1-5 and an eight and under category.

Hartley Wells and Piasente Builders will be donating $1000 worth of prize money spread among the Open Divi-

Don’t forget that in the meantime everyone can enjoy Stony’s family day at the races this Friday December 30. For more details please visit www.scrc.com.au

Leading lady: last year’s Fashions on the Field winner Nicole Salmon will be the face of this year’s Triple Treat marquee.

Mirboo North golf THE winner of the midweek competition held on Thursday December 22 was Barb Stimson (28) 44 points.

There were 25 starters and the CCR was 71.

Down the line: Chris Bracecamp 42 pts, Ron Funnell 41 pts, Maree Thompson 40 pts and Ron Anderson 39 pts.

sion and Section One. To enter online, just go to www.southgippslandtenniscoaching.com.au hi andd click li k on the ‘tournaments’ link.

Mr Pocklington will be looking to make the event more than just an annual one in the future, hoping to hold at least two, if not three tournaments per year.

He has taken over and renamed South Gippsland Tennis Coaching since the departure of Mark and Annette Sheppard 15 months ago, and

says business is going well.

“We’re starting to build it up a bit more, and hope to bring in more tournaments throughout the year,” he said.

“I’ll also look to bring in more programs for the coaching side of things.”

Mr Pocklington is hoping to include Tennis Australia approved programs Hot Shots and Cardio throughout 2012.

Students wishing to sign up to the program can head to the above website.

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8305 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, No difference. 8, Rega-L-e. 9, T-he-ory. 10, MA-Scots. 12, Stock. 15, D-elaY (rev.). 16, B-L-arney.

18, As-king. 20, To-win-g. 22, Spelling-bees.

Down - 1, Tol-erate. 2, (Stra)Diva(rius) 3, Effects. 4, Wrot-e. 5, Investor. 6, Pear (pair). 11, C-larinet 13, Clea-NS-E-r. 14, Slating. 17, SA-GI-le. 19, S-ash. 21, We-BS. QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8305 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Easy on the eye. 8, Assent. 9, Riddle 10, Torrent. 12, Delay. 15, State. 16, Brother. 18, Plaice. 20, Sedate. 22, Devil-may-care.

Down - 1, Passport. 2, Lyre. 3, Instant. 4, Chart. 5, Deadbeat. 6, Real. 11, Retrieve. 13, Aperture. 14, Crystal. 17, Dealt. 19, Lady. 21, Duck.

TIDES 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

DEC / JAN Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

28 WED

29 THUR

30 FRI

31 SAT

1 SUN

2 MON

3 TUE

0537 1146 1701 2345

0.90 0.38 0.83 0.17

0615 1230 1756

0.91 0.34 0.82

0026 0649 1312 1846

0.20 0.91 0.32 0.81

0103 0723 1351 1934

0.24 0.90 0.30 0.80

0139 0756 1430 2021

0.28 0.90 0.29 0.78

0215 0828 1507 2109

0.33 0.89 0.27 0.77

0250 0900 1545 2201

0.37 0.88 0.26 0.76

All times shown in 24 hour clock 0001 - 1200..................AM 1201 - 2400..................PM

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 27, 2011

The new Cadel? talented local cyclist Stuart Smith hopes to ride with the pros in Europe in the coming years.

Smith gears up for nationals

By Liam Charles

LEONGATHA resident Stuart Smith is no ordinary universiy student. student ty

Over the last year, whilst many of his peers have been indulging in the excesses of college life, he has been clocking up thousands of kilometres on his new carbon-fibre road bike.

Rain, hail or shine, Smith spends a staggering 20 hours on his bike each week.

By Sunday his pedometer is in near meltdown, reading in excess of 600 kilometres. To put this in perspective, this is the equivalent of riding from Leongatha to Wagga Wagga every week.

On December 3 and 4 of this month, he competed in the Tour of Bright, in the men’s elite A Grade category.

The gruelling two day event takes cyclists up and down some of Australia’s highest peaks, such as Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.

According to Smith he had a brilliant first day, finishing 12th on the first stage and 20th in the afternoon time trial, moving into 10th overall.

His Jayco-VIS teammate, Alex

Morgan, also had a great first day, moving up to second in the general classification. However, due to freezing cold temperatures and gale-force winds on the second day, Smith was not so lucky on the trek up to Mount Hotham.

In his words: “I had a really, really bad day. I just ran out of legs.”

It should be noted that in the five days prior to the race, Smith rode over 700 kilometres in his gradual build-up to the national championships in January.

“The weather was so bad that the climb up to the summit was cancelled by racing officials,” he said.

He placed inside the top 40 in the Bright event, a significant feat considering the depth of the field. The eventual winner, Adam Senple, recently competed in the professional racing season in Europe.

In recent months Smith’s calendar has been booked out.

On August 28 he competed in a marathon 847 kilometre Tour of the Murray River, from Yarrawonga to Mildura.

Racing in the elite men’s category, Smith placed in the top 50.

His next major race was in the Apple Isle. Starting at Mt Welling-

ton, he rode over 543 kilometres to Devonport, finishing in the top 30.

The race passed through some of Tasmania’s picture-perfect villages, such as Westbury.

However the weather was far from picture-perfect.

In true Tassie fashion, to use Smith’s words, it was “downright atrocious.”

And according to him, the eventual winner, Nathan Haas, “was an absolute freak.”

Indeed the 22-year old Haas was recently snapped up by Garmin-Cevello to race in the upcoming Tour de France. Smith also had a solid ride in the Tour of Gippsland, achieving his highest place for the racing season.

Leongatha’s prospect will spend the next few weeks training for the 2012 Mars Cycling Australia Road National Championships, which will be held in Ballarat.

According to this humble Deakin business student, 2012 will be a development year.

In 2013, he hopes to “have a crack at the big-time,” namely Europe.

With his steely determination, we could well see him racing on our television screens in the near future.

Riding high: Stuart Smith is preparing for a big 2012 on the pedals.