The Great Southern Star - December 7, 2010 by The Great Southern Star

Celebrating 120 Years

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2010

$1.20

12 page South Coast Farmer inside

NARELLE Couper suffered serious injuries after being involved in a car accident while cycling in the United States of America just two months ago. Last week, the Mardan woman was back home, still recovering but celebrating ﬁnishing a 7036km ride to support a charity bringing clean water to poor people around the world. Twenty people have been helped by her fundraising so far. Find out more on page four.

Festive plea Rising bills and rents pressure families By Chris Brown CHARITIES have pleaded for donations to help families battle ﬁnancial hardship this Christmas. Rising rents and utility bills are forcing more South Gippsland residents to seek help from charities. Demand for help from the Salvation Army has risen by 41 per cent in two years. St Vincent de Paul Society is also helping more people than ever make it through the week, while Anglicare

says Christmas time increases stress on families. St Vincent de Paul Society’s Leongatha Conference president Josie Bleeser said people on social security beneﬁts and who were paying rent were particularly struggling. “There is also the higher cost of utilities. Phone bills, electricity, gas and water have gone up,” she said. “All of those things drain people and then they don’t have enough for their food.” People who seek help from St Vincent’s are often long term clients or have been referred by friends or

Centrelink. “They haven’t had the opportunities in lots of ways. They deal with illness, homelessness, lack of money, lack of confidence and sometimes some addictions as well,” Ms Bleeser said. St Vincent’s mainly provides hampers of non-perishable goods for 100 families, valued at $75 each. These include a Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, sugar, tea, coffee, tinned fruit, custard and long life milk. “We find people who are on social security benefits are struggling all year. Then to have those extra things that we like to have and we all take for granted

at Christmas time, they just haven’t got the money to do it,” Ms Bleeser said. The need for hampers has grown, as only 75 were distributed 10 years ago. Children in families that receive hampers are given gifts, sourced through Leongatha chiropractor, Lorcan Heneghan. Continued on page 8.

Helping hand: St Vincent de Paul Society’s Leongatha conference president Josie Bleeser with items for hampers this Christmas.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

LEONGATHA Primary School’s junior students celebrated Christmas last week with a play and a sing-a-long. The Grade 3s enacted the birth of Jesus, while a chorus line of angels belted out songs of celebration along with Christian Religious Education teacher Sue Toohill who lifted her voice to the heavens.

Sing, sing, sing: David Eastwood, Jade McLennan and Ebony Smith.

Left: What an angel: student Vanessa McCarthy helps the chorus line keep in time.

Sing it sister: Sue Toohill knows her way around a Christmas tune.

IN the first official function in its new multi-purpose building, St Laurence’s Primary School, Leongatha, held its school concert last Wednesday night. A packed audience saw fine performances by all grades, as well as the school’s junior and

Happy performer: Sam Schnoor shoots for the stars.

senior choirs, stunning gym routines and a video produced by the students themselves. The ﬁrst number by the choir was How Great Is Our God, then the Prep/Ones performed The Magic Hat. Other highlights included the Recycle Rap by the Grade 3/4 classes, Where is the Love per-

formed by the whole school, and the combined choir’s singing of Tomorrow from Annie. Well done to drama teacher Bronwyn Kalos, physical education teacher Lachie Hughes, all the teachers and students for putting together a great show. Also praise to Tom Harris of Grade 4 who designed the cover of the program.

Recycle Rap: Grades 3/4 students Brielle and Natalie in their performance.

Final number: Grade 6 student Janie Gordon appears in the ﬁnale Where is the Love, performed by the whole school. On their way: the junior choir sings 1,2,3,4,5,6,7, I Want To Go To Heaven.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 3

Mental health in crisis By Brad Lester and Matt Dunn

SOUTH Gippsland’s doctors are struggling with a ﬂood of patients complaining of mental health concerns, with few psychiatrists available to treat those in crisis.

The shortage of services has come to the fore after a spate of incidents across South Gippsland recently, including people threatening to harm themselves, hurting others, and a mentally ill mother from Korumburra still missing despite an exhaustive search. “It’s a stretched mental health service that we have,” Leongatha Healthcare’s Dr Lesley Chisholm said. “The Latrobe Community Health Service does a pretty good job but there are not enough of them. There is a shortage of psychiatrists and a shortage of case workers.” There are just two visiting psychiatrists to the region through that service, and another private psychiatrist visits Leongatha Memorial Hospital occasionally. “So it’s fairly limited because people have to wait a really long time to see a psychiatrist and people will often travel to Melbourne to see a psychiatrist,” Dr Chisholm said. Case workers perform a vital role but are responsible for a massive area

from Phillip Island through to Yarram. “They are good at what they do but they are quite stretched,” Dr Chisholm said. Patients often have to wait to be seen and although emergency cases can be attended to quickly, that is usually at the expense of someone else, Dr Chisholm said. She believes more government funding is needed to bring more medical specialists into the region. As a GP, Dr Chisholm said she is now seeing more people with mental health issues than in the past, with a high incidence of depression in the community. “It’s really important for people to speak to their local GP to start with because we can access the appropriate services for them, whether it be a counsellor or a psychologist locally. That has made a big difference,” she said. “There are some good psychologists in the area and they are being utilised a lot. But a lot of people have not been willing to go. Stigma is a thing that stops people from seeking help.” Men are less inclined to seek help, despite being less likely to talk about emotional issues with friends, as women tend to do, Dr Chisholm said. Dr Robyn Vines believes part of the reason for the inﬂux of people visiting their GPs is that some of the stigma

Caring to dance In harmony: Leongatha’s Care to Dance group presented its annual concert on Saturday night, titled Let’s Go to the Movies. Held at St Laurence’s Primary School’s new multi-purpose building, the concert featured jazz, ballet, and musical theatre. Ready to present their piece were Zali Charlton, Montana Kranen and Bella Kent.

surrounding mental health problems is “dissipating”, and people are more willing to talk. Dr Vines is the chair of the Australian Psychological Society’s Regional Rural and Remote Advisory Group. While she has been buoyed by a changing attitude to mental illness in the community, she, like Dr Chisholm, believes the bush is suffering through a lack of services. “There was a study 10 years ago – and things have changed now, but the statistics are still not good – that showed four per cent of psychiatrists were in rural areas, treating 30 per cent of the population. That compared with 96 per cent who were located in the upper class suburbs,” she said. And though many are beginning to seek help, Dr Vines said a quiet “stoicism” among some, particularly men, was still a barrier to recovery, especially from depression and anxiety. “Most people in metropolitan areas can go home to get away from work; however in a smaller community, people mainly socialise with those with whom they also do business, and family members are also often business partners – all of which can create friction, lead to difﬁculty in ensuring adequate time off and potential mental health problems if strategies aren’t put in place to help cope,” she said.

Music break: more than 150 students from across the region attended the South Gippsland Schools Music Program at Wonthaggi Secondary College last week. Taking a rest during the three day event were Leongatha Secondary College French horn musician, Tanya Derrick, and alto sax musician, Aaron Boscombe from Mirboo North Secondary College. Read more on page 39.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Finally there: Narelle Couper and friend Carmen Peterson after completing the journey.

Crash hasn’t kept Narelle down By Isaac McCallum

NARELLE Couper must be a positive person. The Mardan resident was hit by a car while riding for charity across the USA recently. But the 26-year-old did not let the accident stop her completing the 7036km tour, despite being reduced to hobbling on crutches. She, and American friend Carmen Peterson, with whom she completed the journey, would not let the setback stop her from ﬁnishing what they had started. “We were pretty determined, having ridden so far and getting so close to the end of our charity ride,” she said. The tour was in aid of Charity: Water, which began in 2006 to focus on bringing clean, safe drinking water to people in developing nations. The charity sends every cent of every donation to the cause, and so far 20 people have been helped by Narelle’s efforts. But being part of an idea and completing

the job are two very different things, as she soon found out. Narelle had difﬁculties with large head winds, heat, humidity, exhausting schedules and most of all, pushing herself forward. “The hardest thing we dealt with was ourselves; our own mental capacity and our attitude towards the ride,” she said. “We’d just stop and think of all the things that we were really grateful for, and think about the women and children who are doing what they’re doing every day just to have water. “I knew if I kept going I would meet new people who would help the cause and that would be one more child going to school getting an education. It was good motivation.” Positivity radiates from Narelle. From meeting her brieﬂy, it is easy to gain the understanding that nothing is done in quarters. “I’ve got no reason not to be positive when I think of the charity, of the people we’re supporting,” she said. Although the duo did not have any planned publicity stops, they held many talks anyway, not just about their journey but about the lo-

cals’ lives as well. “All along the entire way, there were people we’d inspired. It’s pretty amazing how easy it can be to do,” Narelle said. “It was great talking to people about what we were doing. On a bike you’ve got a great chance to stop and talk to people and learn their story and what’s going on in their community.” So far Narelle has written 86 thank you letters to families who allowed her to stay over during the cycling tour, a gesture she was extremely grateful for. Her journey from Portland to San Francisco is covered online at www.watercycle2010. blogspot.com There is also a link for Australians to donate to the cause. Narelle will be looking to continue raising money in the hope that someday everyone will live happily and healthily; that somewhere in a third world country, a mother and child can share a clean drink of water. They may just have a Mardan woman to thank.

Back again: regular Koonwarra Farmers Market visitors Harry and Marjorie Prosser (right) of Koonwarra enjoyed the December market on Saturday. They were joined by neighbour Ada Baker and her daughter Kerrie Baker of Mount Eccles. Mr Prosser was a former president of the market venue, Memorial Park, and served as a committee member for 45 years.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 5

Ag hub work starts By Jane Ross A NEW Windmill Ag venture at Koonwarra will stamp the area as a rural business precinct.

Set to go: Windmill Ag director Jason Henry (left) with construction project manager Gary Bullen on the new Windmill Ag site in Koonwarra.

Doctors wanted now By Chris Brown SOUTH Gippsland is short of doctors. A Star investigation found the region is lacking highly skilled GPs who can perform obstetrics and anesthetics, and be available for after hours work. Existing doctors are reducing their hours as they desire a better lifestyle, but more doctors are working in the region than at this time in 2009. There are 72 fully qualified GPs working between Koo Wee Rup and Yarram, with another 18 registrars and two interns. This time last year there were only 64 GPs. General Practice Alliance of South Gippsland CEO, Rhett McLennan, said doctor numbers go in fits and starts. “Next year we could be down,” he said. “With a growing population, we always need more doctors, especially in the western region of our catchment with the Bass Coast and Leongatha and Korumburra. “An ideal number would be in excess of 100.” The alliance lists vacancies for eight doctors in the region on their website. Two GPs are wanted for Leongatha, Mirboo North and Yarram, and one each for San Remo and Korumburra. Mr McLennan said it was difficult to attract more doctors be-

cause they fear a huge workload. “For most regions it’s financially attractive to work in the country, but it’s also time consuming because of the extra hospital shifts and the procedural medicine,” he said. “You could earn a little bit less in Melbourne, but work a 9am to 5pm day, which isn’t the case in the country.” Mr McLennan said it would be interesting to see if the doctors who replace the current batch of practice partners when they retire are more concerned with work-life balance. “There may be the possibility of needing more doctors for the area than we have had previously because they are less enthusiastic about working super long hours,” he said. One possible source of doctors could be the first batches of graduates from the Gippsland Medical School. “The early signs of the quality of doctors coming out of that program look really promising,” Mr McLennan said. Immediate past president of the Rural Doctors Association of Victoria and Wonthaggi doctor, Nola Maxfield, said the region needed more doctors with obstetric and anaesthetic skills who can be on call for emergencies. “We find the doctors with those skills in Victoria are getting older and have an average age of 57,” she said. Younger doctors working less

as they seek a quality lifestyle could affect the number of hours doctors work, Dr Maxfield said. The association is working with government to set up a National Rural Generalist Training Program to fix the GP skills shortage. Leongatha Healthcare practice manager Judy Robb said the clinic had capacity for more doctors. The clinic needs enough doctors, with obstetrics and anaesthetist skills, to fill an on-call roster. They work closely with the Rural Workforce Agency to recruit and retain GPs. Wonthaggi Medical Group business manager John Turner said there were more doctors than four years ago in his area, but extra doctors would help spread the workload. The group also relies on short term doctors and had three registrars until August. Mr Turner said a key issue was retaining doctors. He said how well they connected to the community and educational opportunities for their children heavily influenced whether doctors stayed in rural areas. Two of the clinic’s doctors moved to Sydney for the education of their children and another two moved to Perth after meeting government requirements to work in a rural area for five years. “If they are good doctors they’re in demand everywhere,” he said.

With the livestock selling complex VLE over the road and plenty of available surrounding land, the area around Hogans Road is set to become a new industrial estate. Windmill Ag director, Jason Henry, said blocks of land are a good size and he can see the day when other rural-based industry sets up there. Windmill Ag has a 10-acre site and is building on half of that. “The rest is for future development.” The new state-of-the-art construction will be two and a half times the size of Windmill Ag’s current address in Meeniyan. “We’re boxed in there,” Mr Henry said. The Koonwarra site has been cleared and building will begin in earnest in January/February next year. Mr Henry said it will further cement the future growth of Windmill Ag’s major brand, John Deere, in the agricultural industry in South Gippsland. Completion date for the new hub is scheduled for July next year and an ofﬁcial opening is planned for mid-August. Leongatha builders Considine and Johnston have the contract and Gary Bullen is the project manager.

“They’re local, they have a proven record and Gary has been very thorough,” Mr Henry said. With the investment VLE has made in the livestock market at Koonwarra, Mr Henry said building nearby made sense. “We’ll have good highway frontage, we’ll be close to our Leongatha suppliers and our strong market in Meeniyan. It will be very handy for farmers when they come to Koonwarra for the market.” The new Windmill Ag will allow for larger and more varied stock. “One of the most critical things is the exposure of the business and the fact that it will have the most advanced agricultural repair workshop in Gippsland.” New South Gippsland Shire mayor Cr Warren Raabe, said the Windmill Ag development and the potential of that part of Koonwarra to develop as a rural business precinct, underscored the stability and security of South Gippsland’s farming sector. “It’s blue chip,” he said. Windmill Ag was founded in Hamilton 40 years ago. There are branches at Terang and Ballarat. Jason said the Hamilton branch was rebuilt a year ago and the new Koonwarra centre will mean all four sites meet the modern John Deere criteria. He’s looking forward to the move because, he said, the building will look professional and encourage customers to walk in the door.

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Club rears in protest By Brad Lester PLANS to transform the Leongatha Equestrian Park into an industrial estate continue to be opposed by the Leongatha and District Equestrian Club.

The club uses the Tilson Court site, along with the Berrys Creek Pony Club and a riding for the disabled group. South Gippsland Shire Council is considering shutting the park to cater for growing demand for industrial land in Leongatha. All horse-riding will be relocated to a new purpose-built facility at the Stony Creek Racecourse. Council has voted to support a regional equestrian facility at the racecourse and pledged $30,000 to investigate the proposal. But that plan would inconvenience club members and diminish the club’s sense of identity, said club president, Kelly van den Berg. “We are not in agreement with council about moving to a new facility at Stony Creek and we have said that before and we have never been asked (our opinion) by council,” she said. Ms van den Berg said club members would not be able to afford to move to Stony

Creek. “There are no elite riders here and their kids just enjoy bringing their ponies to pony club,” she said. The club also stands to lose its identity, she claimed. “Compare it to the Leongatha Football Club being asked to move to Kongwak. There would be all out war and I feel that council is being presumptuous by feeling that we would just roll over,” Ms van den Berg said. As the club’s membership is predominantly women, she said the club gives women a chance to take part in sport. Ms van den Berg is also a professional dressage competitor and Equestrian Australia Coach who operates her teaching business out of the Leongatha Equestrian Park. The club will invite councillors to meet with them at the site. But new mayor Cr Warren Raabe told The Star last week that Leongatha faces a looming shortage of industrial land and the equestrian park site was an ideal site. “Council is now investigating the Stony Creek option and then we would like to see the land used for industrial development,” he said. The club has been established for 25 years and also accommodates the Berrys Creek Pony Club, after council required that club to abandon Mossvale Park.

Making a stand: Kelly van den Berg, Gayle Lawson-Verdon, Lisa Archer and Helen Guy of the Leongatha and District Equestrian Club, with horses Royal Russia (left) and Headturner (right). Headturner has raced in the Melbourne and Caulﬁeld cups.

Santa arrives: Santa turns up to the Leongatha Children’s Centre Christmas party, handing out icy-poles.

Santa spotted FATHER Christmas has been seen in Leongatha. Despite busily making presents at the North Pole, Father Christmas made an appearance for families at the Leongatha Children’s Centre’s Christmas Party on Sunday. Families came along to join together for lunch under the shady trees at the

centre, with Christmas carols playing. It was a great time for parents and friends to catch up outside of what is normally a very busy centre during the week. Of course the highlight was Santa’s visit as he handed out icy-poles to the kids while having plenty of photos snapped with children on his knee.

Young drivers hit road THE ﬁrst two young people have started a program to help them gain the120 hours of driving practice required to obtain a licence. South Gippsland Shire Council’s L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program has started well, with co-ordinator John Ernst enthusiastic about the need for such a program. “On one hand we despair about the number of tragic accidents involving young people, but many of them don’t have access to a car or someone to accompany them for driving practice,” he said.

“This program is run across Victoria and follows the old adage that it takes a community to raise a child and this is a real success story in the making for rural communities.” The program is coordinated by council, funded by the TAC through Vic Roads, and was launched locally on Sunday at Mirboo North amidst the celebrations for International Volunteers Day. “We have engaged and trained sixteen volunteer mentors across the shire and have vetted about 15 enquiries so far from young ones wanting to participate,” Mr Ernst said.

“We will then stagger the starts of those who are eligible to match the availability of our vehicles and mentors.” Participants will have four professional driving lessons before they start the practice sessions, and another four or ﬁve intermittently as they advance their skills. “They can gain their Learner’s permit at 16, so they have two years to build their skills and experience in varying conditions before they sit for their licence at 18,” Mr Ernst said. For further information about the program, contact Mr Ernst on 5662 9367 or 0409 836 515.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 7

Pool worries aired By Brad Lester CONCERN over the security of swimming pools in South Gippsland was raised at a public meeting in Foster last Tuesday. South Gippsland Shire Council will this month review council operated pools around the municipality, ahead of its draft aquatic strategy going to public exhibition after Christmas. Foster Community Association vice president, Robert Fulton, said the community was parochial about retaining the town’s pool. “People tried to emphasise the fact the pool has peak periods of use and the pool is available to provide swimming lessons, provide exercise classes and brings a lot to the tourism industry here,” he said. “The essence of it comes down to whether a decision has to be made and the question has to be put to the community about whether they will be happy to have an increase in rates to meet the (operating) costs of the pool.” The meeting was the ﬁnal of South Gippsland

Shire Council’s community consultation sessions regarding the 2011-12 budget, capital works, Council Plan and Long Term Financial Plan. The pool issue was also raised at another consultation session in Leongatha the previous week. Better public transport was another popular topic, with calls for a link between Foster and Sale to enable travellers along Australia’s eastern coast to access South Gippsland without having to travel via Melbourne. A regular link between Foster and Wilsons Promontory would also enable visitors, particularly the economically lucrative backpacker market, to visit the national park. The meeting was told a daily transport service between Foster and Tidal River would be provided over summer, with a public bus operated through the State Government’s Transport Connections program. Bus travellers called for the V/Line bus to stop in Bair Street, Leongatha, rather than the existing railway station, to give elderly and disabled passengers closer access to the town’s shops. The meeting also heard poor road maintenance has resulted in stones and tar damaging cars, and

unkempt grassy verges in Fish Creek were forcing pedestrians to walk on the road, in the path of milk tankers and cars. Council was also asked to continue to lobby for government funding to extend the Great Southern Rail Trail from Foster to Welshpool. Carparking issues in Foster were raised and will be considered during council’s streetscape planning for Foster and further community consultation will occur. About 30 people attended the meeting at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre, following from similar meetings held at Leongatha, Korumburra and Mirboo North. Roads maintenance, parks and gardens, community engagement, and supporting economic development were common issues raised at all sessions. Progressing the heavy vehicle alternate route through Leongatha, public transport to Venus Bay and a retirement village at Tarwin Lower were among the issues raised at the Leongatha session. Some people called for a bigger library and concern about the adequacy of essential services, such as sewerage and water, in Leongatha was also

Council should lead way By Brad Lester THE new mayor of South Gippsland Shire Council wants the municipality to be a leader in the region. Cr Warren Raabe has pledged to make the council an inﬂuential force and continue the council’s strategic focus. His vision was shared by returned deputy mayor, Cr Mimmie Jackson, who said she wanted South Gippsland to be proud of its place in Victoria. Cr Raabe has vowed to pursue more government funding to advance the shire, as the state department of Regional Development Victoria believes South Gippsland has been missing out on its fair share of grants. “I want to see South Gippsland take a leadership role in Victoria,” Cr Raabe said, offering to chair the Gippsland Local Government Network if the opportunity arose. “We need to be inviting our local members more and wining and dining them.” Standing for his current council term on the platform of pursuing the Rural Land Use Strategy, the Korumburra farmer wants to guide planning policy, better land

Leadership team: South Gippsland Shire Council’s new mayor, Cr Warren Raabe, and returned deputy mayor, Cr Mimmie Jackson. use and community planning. Cr Raabe signalled his leadership contention months out from the election, successfully moving motions for councillors’ discretionary funds to be reduced and planners to make most planning decisions.

Described as “impatient for change” and an economic realist by outgoing mayor, Cr Jim Fawcett, Cr Raabe has indicated his intention to achieve his visions. “I’m a ﬁnisher. I want to see projects ticked off and ﬁnished,” he said.

“We need to think about what we have done and what we have not done.” He won the poll from one-time mayor Cr Jeanette Harding by a single vote, saying that after ﬁve years as councillor, he was ready for the top post. Councillors to back Cr Raabe were Jennie Deane, Jim Fawcett, Mohya Davies, Mimmie Jackson and himself. Cr Jackson nominated him for the role. Cr Harding voted for herself, along with Kieran Kennedy, David Lewis and Bob Newton. Cr Harding was nominated by Cr Lewis. Giving her nomination speech before Cr Raabe, Cr Harding expressed similar sentiment. “I hope that if we all work together, we can be the envy of our neighbouring shires and perhaps further aﬁeld,” she said. Cr Harding later urged councillors to choose who cares most about constituents, adding: “Regardless who is elected, the people of South Gippsland are the main issue.” Cr Jackson was returned as deputy mayor, with overwhelming support from her colleagues, despite a challenge from Cr Davies.

raised, given the population growth projected for the town. The ongoing rejuvenation of the saleyards was a major issue at the Korumburra session, along with enhancing the entrances to Korumburra, maintaining roads and gardens, and infrastructure needs for the growing Nyora district. Council’s community strengthening support officer, Sophie Dixon, said the sessions have enabled council to gain valuable feedback ahead of determining budget allocations. “Most of the sessions have been pretty positive as people recognise that there is a good chance to consult,” she said. Mr Fulton praised council for consulting the community. “It was definitely worthwhile. It was obvious the council officers had put a tremendous amount of work in to try and develop the right strategies. I was most impressed by the way the officers went about it. They were very professional.” Cr Mimmie Jackson said at the first meeting for 2011 in February, council would receive a report about the sessions.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Awarded quality meat TJ’s Gourmet Meats at Tooradin is a quality butcher serving people and businesses in the South Gippsland region. Owned by Terry and Judy Barlow, the business has been recognised for the superior meat sold to customers. At the Australian Meat Industry Council awards in November, TJ’s Gourmet Meats won ﬁrst prize for best traditional ham on the bone in Gippsland and came second in the Victorian division. Expert ham-maker John Dart was pivotal to ensuring the ham quality. The business’s boneless ham, kabana and stras all placed second for the Gippsland region as well. Many businesses in South Gippsland such as hotels, restaurants and takeaways

source their product from TJ’S Gourmet Meats. Terry said the key to the butcher’s success was sourcing grass fed beef from South Gippsland. “We are very strong on Gippsland product and that is the main thing about our business,” he said. “We’ve been serving customers in that area since 1985, so that’s a long while and we’ve formed great relationships with our customers down there.” Strong customer service and competitive pricing are also reasons for the success. The business has eight butchers. Orders are already being taken for Christmas, with the TJ’s hams an obvious favourite among customers.

POLICE BRIEFS Still missing POLICE are still searching for missing Korumburra woman Donné Morgan, but have no leads at this point in time. Sergeant Clive Smith of the Korumburra Police said police have searched more areas, but have not found encouraging signs. “We still believe she’ll be in the general area judging by the amount of medication she took and the fact that she’s on foot,” he said. If anyone has any information, or believes they have seen Mrs Morgan, they are urged to contact the police.

Window pain A PATRON at Leongatha’s McCartins Hotel sustained serious injury when he tripped and fell through a glass window on Friday night. The man had lacerations to his head, and was taken via ambulance to Leongatha Memorial Hospital. His injuries were described as serious without being potentially fatal. Police were called to the scene at about 9.40pm to investigate the incident. They will look over surveillance footage to determine why the man fell.

Car stolen, found

Standing by: outgoing South Gippsland Shire Council mayor, Cr Jim Fawcett, with his supportive wife Joan after he concluded his two terms in the top role last Wednesday. Mrs Fawcett has served the community well through in her position.

A LATE model Commodore was stolen from a house in Leongatha’s Grifﬁn Road between 7pm on December 2 and 7am on December 3. The car was then located by police on Wonthaggi-Korumburra Road, Kongwak after it had been in an accident. The offenders had ﬂed the scene.

Mitsubishi taken A VEHICLE was stolen from Rise-

leys Transport in Cusack Road, Leongatha overnight between December 3 and 4. The Mitsubishi Triton Cab Chassis vehicle, number plate PPF 487, is valued at around $7000. Offenders entered the site from the rear, and rammed down the gates with the vehicle before driving off. Police are after any information that might assist them with their investigation.

Drunken antics TWO Leongatha men were arrested on the weekend in relation to incidents of being drunk on Saturday night. The ﬁrst was a 19-year-old, who was refused entry to McCartins Hotel and told to leave. After refusing to leave, police were called and the man was lodged at Wonthaggi Police Station for being drunk and resisting police instruction. A second male was arrested later for being drunk and was transported to Wonthaggi. He will receive two crime penalty notices worth over $980.

Hoon caught A HOON driver had his car impounded for 48 hours after he performed a skid in his car on Thursday night. The 19-year-old Lang Lang resident was going around a corner into Grundy Avenue in Nyora when police saw him and apprehended him.

Drink driver A DRIVER who blew 0.90 when pulled over at a preliminary breath test site has had his licence cancelled for six months. The offender was pulled over on Lang Lang Road in Nyora on

Thursday afternoon.

Hit fence HOON drivers who spun out into a fence in the rear lane behind Station Street, Korumburra ﬂed the scene before witnesses could determine who they were. The vehicle was believed to be a blue car. Police are asking for information that might be helpful.

Brawl probe A LARGE brawl at McDonald’s restaurant in Leongatha on Friday is being investigated by Leongatha Police. They will be considering charging a few people with assault in relation to the incident, which happened at 11.30pm.

School zone fear CONCERNED parents of Nyora Primary School students reported drivers were not obeying the 40km/h speed limit at the front of the school. The police took the report on board and are now monitoring Grundy Avenue for speeding drivers. One has already been pulled over for doing 60km/h in the area.

Letterbox damage

A LETTERBOX in Radovick Street, Korumburra was damaged overnight between December 4 and 5. The damage was caused by ﬁre. Police suspect someone lit an object before placing it in the letterbox. Another letterbox on Koonwarra Road, Leongatha was damaged on Saturday at around 11pm. The residents heard noises on Saturday and found the letterbox had been damaged.

Festive plea

Continued from page 1. At the Salvation Army in Leongatha, community support services co-ordinator, Geoff Clarkson, said unemployment, rising rental costs and expensive electricity were increasing pressure. The Salvos help about 40 people a week in the South Gippsland Shire. “We do have people who are constantly in that struggle that we help out from time to time,” he said. “I think the majority of people just need to get over a hurdle and then they are okay.” This Christmas the Salvos are also offering hampers. Last year they made 120, which were distributed to nearly 400 people. The number will be similar or slightly less this year, but that will still be many more than the 71 hampers distributed in 2008. Toys donated to the Salvos are passed on to Kilmany Uniting Care, which also collects toys placed under a Christmas tree at Target. Anglicare’s Gippsland manager Jane Anderson said winter utility bills were arriving when people are trying to budget to buy Christmas gifts. “We’re also seeing at Christmas time, through our family services programs, the increasing stress on families,” she said. “It may be because people are separated or dealing with loss and grief issues. “The usual issues we see that are affecting families are financial stress, mental health and family violence, and sometimes alcohol misuse.” Ms Anderson said difficulties obtaining secure and stable housing could lead to people staying with relatives or couch surfing. “What’s difficult around Leongatha is access to public transport, so you have the costs of having a vehicle, which is hard for people on low incomes,” she said. Ms Bleeser asks the community to be generous this Christmas. People can make donations to the St Vincent de Paul conference at PO Box 230, Leongatha 3953. All money helps disadvantaged people, with volunteers used to save costs. Donations can also be made to the Salvation Army in Anderson Street or to Leongatha Rotary’s Christmas toy appeal, in conjunction with UnitingCare Gippsland. Presents should be placed under Christmas trees in Smiths Gift and Homewares, Leongatha Rural Supplies and Stockdale and Leggo.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 9

$20m brings uni closer Smith to listen – officially By Jane Ross THE provision of higher education in South Gippsland has been given a major ﬁllip with the appointment of Peter Hall as Minister for Higher Education and Skills.

Mr Hall told The Star on Friday morning, that he pledged a minimum of $20 million over four years to encourage TAFEs to offer university courses in country areas. “This could mean looking at university in conjunction with GippsTAFE at Leongatha, for example. “We’ll encourage that.” He said the government acknowledged the cost factor and the $20m is “a promise”. The money will come out of the $1 billion regional infrastructure fund announced in the lead up to the election by Nationals leader Peter Ryan, who retains the regional and rural development portfolio. “If we have many applications and we need more money, we’ll look at that,” Mr Hall said. The matter of access to higher education for country people has long been dear to his heart. In Opposition, he initiated an all-party inquiry called Geographical Differences in Higher Education. This reported to parliament in 2009 and the TAFE/university rural alliance was one of its key recommendations. The report noted that access to higher education was a “signiﬁcant concern” across rural and regional Victoria, with the high cost of living away from home prompting many rural young people to defer from university and often not take it up at all. The dire consequences of that have been spelt out loudly and clearly by Peter Hanley, a former Wonthaggi Secondary College principal who has developed a business case for the planned Bass Coast Education

Precinct. He warned that in the next decade or so, people in Bass Coast Shire will be competing for jobs with many others from India and China. The proportion of people in Bass Coast Shire with university degrees is very low and Mr Hanley warned that unless this changes, the area will become one that merely services Chinese tourists. His comments follow similar ones made by the aptly-named Dr Peter Brain, executive director of the National Institute of Economic and Industry Research, who undertook a study for Bass Coast Council several years ago. Dr Brain recommended the number of university graduates in the shire rise from below 10 per cent to closer to 50, adding it was vital the area become part of what he called the global knowledge economy. Mr Hall has another string to his ministerial bow. He is responsible for the teaching profession. He said that will embrace all matters related to teaching, including standards, quality, professional development and the negotiation of the new Enterprise Bargaining Agreement between the State and teacher organisations. “We want to acknowledge the importance of teaching as a profession and I’m keen to promote teaching in the community. “There is no doubt teaching quality is one of the prime determinants of education outcomes. “I know it is a difﬁcult job. I am a former teacher, my wife is a primary school teacher, my brother is a primary school principal. “I want to make sure teachers are the best equipped and that they’re appreciated by the community.” Mr Hall spent his ﬁrst ministerial day visiting Warragul GippsTAFE, the Education Centre Gippsland and Monash University Gippsland.

Desal scrutiny promise By Jane Ross THE Wonthaggi desalination plant might be scaled back.

Bass MLA and the new Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Ken Smith, said this yesterday. He added the rider that any reduction may not be possible, but the contract between the State Government and AquaSure will be closely scrutinised for the possibility. Mr Smith said the Coalition had not been privy to the desalination plant contract details. “But now that we are in government, we’ll be looking at the contract to see if there are any opportunities to scale it down in size a bit. “We’ll have a proper look at the whole thing because we have to get the best deal out of it for Victoria.” Mr Smith said cancelling the contract was neither possible nor practical. “You can’t have it that every time there is a change of government contracts are cancelled. “That would ruin any opportunities in the future for Victoria.” He said the previous Labor Government had panicked and just wanted the water, no matter the cost. “They didn’t count on God sending down the rain,” he declared. “They thought God was in the Premier’s ofﬁce!” Meanwhile, pipeline construction works will

soon be crossing under the Powlett River near Kilcunda. Work is due to start this week and will take about four months. Pipe jacking involves setting up work sites on either side of the river, digging a shaft on each side, lining the shafts with sheet piles (this might be noisy) and pushing pipes through the ground by hydraulic jacks. The shafts are then ﬁlled. A desalination project works notiﬁcation states that relevant waterway approvals are in place. Reports that a plant construction worker was struck by lighting last Thursday are not

quite correct. Thiess Degremont manager of stakeholder and community relations Serena Middleton, said a trafﬁc controller working on the pipe line “was affected by electrical activity, generated by a nearby lightning strike”. “This happened as she was returning to her vehicle to shelter from the rain on Thursday. “After a medical assessment at hospital, it was determined that the woman was not struck by lightning. “She stayed in hospital overnight for observation and returned home with no serious injuries.”

By Jane Ross KEN Smith’s election campaign slogan was “I’m listening”. He’ll be doing plenty of that in parliament for the next four years, following his appointment as Speaker. Ken is one of three Gippsland-based Coalition MPs with a senior role in the new State Government. Peter Ryan, leader of the Nationals and the Member for Gippsland South, is Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Regional and Rural Development and Bushfire Response. Before the election, he pledged a $1 billion regional infrastructure fund that could help build the new Leongatha Memorial Hospital. The previous government allocated $20 million, but that is at least $12 million short. Peter Hall, Upper House Member for Eastern Region Victoria (formerly Gippsland Province) is Minister for Higher Education and Skills and Minister responsible for the Teaching Profession. When Mr Smith spoke to The Star the day after the state election, he said he was hoping for “some area of

responsibility”. In truth, said his longtime friend and former electoral officer Neville Goodwin, “we’ve been working on” the Speaker’s role “for a long time”. “Ken will do a great job as Speaker, he’s been thrown out of the House often enough!” quipped Neville. The task of Speaker is to act as the spokesperson for the House, preside over debate in the chamber and enforce rules of procedure. It is a position of high regard and Mr Smith has pledged to uphold the trust placed in him and carry out his duties to the best of his ability. He said he wanted to reassure his electorate that he would work hard to fulfill his commitments to his constituents. He will be sworn in when parliament resumes on December 21. This is Mr Smith’s last parliamentary term. He said he will be 69 when the next election is due and that will be the time for him to step down. He joined parliament in 1988, firstly in the Upper House as a Member for South Eastern Province, then in the Lower House seat of Bass.

New job: Bass MLA Ken Smith is the Speaker in the Lower House of the new State Government.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

THE NERRENA Cricket Club is searching for old photos or memorabilia from days gone by. The club is hosting a reunion early next year and is after any photos of social events, the ground or teams from the 1950s onwards. Memorabilia from this time period would also be very helpful. If you have any, or know of anyone who has, then contact Ben Croatto on 0431 479 675.

WISHING a happy birthday to Leongatha’s Tim Mackie, who celebrated his birthday on Sunday.

THERE are only 18 sleeps until Christmas. Those of us with advent calendars will be already munching away at our chocolates!

CONGRATULATIONS to Mary MacKillop’s 2011 school captains. Emalie Gordon and Sam Synan have been appointed to lead the student cohort, with Dylan Malzinskas and Beth Dortmans their deputies.

AQUATIC education doesn’t need to stop when school does.

SG SPLASH YMCA is urging parents to keep their child’s water safety skills on track this summer by continuing their aquatic education during school holidays. SG SPLASH is offering parents a saving of 10 per cent on the YMCA AquaSafe Holiday Program if they enrol their child before Monday, December 20. The ﬁve day programs start on Mondays, January 10 and 17, 2011. Call 5662 5911 or visit www. sgsplash.ymca.org.au to ﬁnd out more. MEENIYAN will be hosting Carols by Glowlight on Christmas Eve at the town hall. The night will feature the South Gippsland Wind Orchestra and Meeniyan Ecumenical Choir. A sausage sizzle will be provided under the covered area beside the hall commencing at 6.30pm. Come and sing along and join in the celebrations. The carols will begin at 8pm. DUE to popular demand, Tarwin Valley Primary School will be having a Fete and Fun Day on

Thursday, December 9 between 12.30pm and 3pm. The day will have many of the same loved and great activities with some new attractions and competitions. Each class will run an activity or stall on the day. There will also be other activities and stalls organised by adults. A DISCO run for primary school students will be held at the Drill Hall in Korumburra this Friday. From 6pm to 7.30pm, grades Prep to 2 students will be out on the dance floor, and from 7.45pm until 11pm, grades 3 to 6 kids will take over. Entry is $5 for all students. THREE fire brigades will be selling Christmas trees to raise funds. Ruby, Leongatha South and Koonwarra brigades will be offering trees at the Leongatha fire station this Saturday and Sunday, December 11 and 12, and also Saturday, December 18. Pick up a tree between 8.30am and 4pm all days. Trees will range from four to seven feet long. The Ruby brigade will dedicate funds raised towards a training room,

Rotary appeals for toys

Toy appeal: calling for toys are Colin Byatt of Leongatha Rural Supplies, Louise Matthews of A W Smith Gifts and Homewares, Jason Harris of Stockdale and Leggo, organiser Phillip Morter and Helga Baum of Stockdale and Leggo.

By Tessa Hayward CHRISTMAS is near and those less fortunate will be able to receive a gift thanks to the generosity of the community. Leongatha Rotary Club is having a Christmas toy appeal in three stores this year: Leongatha Rural Supplies, A W Smith Gifts and Homewares, and Stockdale and Leggo. Rotarian Phillip Morter is organising the toy appeal in conjunction with UnitingCare Gippsland. “UnitingCare will distribute the toys to underprivileged kids in the area,” he said. Leongatha Rotary has been running this toy appeal charity for three years to help disadvantaged kids. “Toys for children aged between one and 14 are needed and they must be unwrapped,” Mr Morter said. The club donated $400 of toys to the appeal. All the toys will be collected on Tuesday, December 14, so they can be distributed before Christmas.

and Leongatha South and Koonwarra brigades will spend money on updating equipment. THE St Paul’s Anglican Church, Korumburra will hold a Crib Service’ on Christmas Eve, from 6.30pm. “This year we’re going to ‘follow the star’. We’re going on a bit of an adventure, where the children will meet various people from the Christmas Story,” Reverend Jenny Ramage said. “It will be family-focused and run for 40 minutes, so the kids are home early. It just breaks up that time of night where parents are wondering what to do. Then we have our midnight service at 11pm.” THE Coal Creek Community Gallery will have art work on display all this month and is featuring 36 fabulous works from Korumburra Primary School students. The gallery is open from 9am to 4.30pm each day. All enquiries to Coal Creek on 5655 1811.

THE girls of Clipit Hairdressing went to see the musical Hairspray recently and had a fantastic night. They are from left, Rachael Woodall, Emma Kyle, Emily Hassell, Jane Trease, Prue Trease and Tona O’Connor.

On display: Doug Kane of Korumburra with some of the Coal Creek Gallery’s works.

Coal Creek Christmas COAL Creek is readying itself for Christmas this year with a gala carols production and a special visit by Santa Claus. The traditional Carols by Candlelight concert will be held on Friday, December 17, kicking off at 6pm. Coal Creek co-ordinator Rowena Ashley said the concert was always a highlight on the events calendar, but the arrival of a very special person on December 24 was sure to have everyone excited. “We’ll have Santa here until 9pm so parents can come in and have photographs taken,” she said. For details about the carols and Santa call Coal Creek on 5655 1811.

Hello Santa: the jolly old fellow is set to make a splash.

Fundraising: from left, Alex Scott and Staff director, Greg Price and representatives of the Bass Coast Community Foundation, Kate Dwyer and Alan Brown, attended a special Christmas fundraiser last Friday at Phillip Island’s historic Trenavin Park. The skies cleared and a good crowd of people enjoyed the champagne, ﬁne food and wonderful classical music provided by the Amati String Ensemble, one of Melbourne’s ﬁnest chamber ensembles. The evening proved a huge success, enjoyed by all who were fortunate to attend.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 11

Inverloch floods again By Jane Ross THE heavens dumped 35mm of rain on Inverloch in 25 minutes on Friday evening.

And A’Beckett Street, the main thoroughfare, flooded again. The road was awash and The Esplanade Hotel and Inverloch Library were inundated. The situation wasn’t helped by a number of fourwheel-drive vehicles going up and down the street creating waves of water that washed into shops. “Clowns,” is the way Wayne Cook described the thrill-seekers. He manages The Esplanade Hotel. He said his staff and members of the Inverloch State Emergency Service came to the rescue and A’Beckett Street was closed to traffic for a time to try to keep the flood waters stable. “The gutters can’t cope and once the storm water fills up, it back flows,” he said. And that’s the problem said Steve Piasente, who has just switched his directorship roles with Bass Coast Council. He was responsible for infrastructure and now he has the community and economic development portfolio. He said there was little that could be done for Inverloch, given that the road drains are old and the downpour very heavy.

To alter the drainage system would, he said, involve a major investment and that is not being considered. Cr Gareth Barlow said the Inverloch Community Hub, which houses the library, needed water proofing and he was sorry that had not happened after the library was badly flooded in March this year. The building is owned by the council and he will ensure the water proofing of doors goes ahead this time. Cr Barlow said given the impossible cost of replacing the Inverloch drains, the town needs a comprehensive flood plan. He will speak to council staff about that. “We need to get together too with the Inverloch Community Plan Group to work out how to manage these ongoing floods.” As chairman of the West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation, Cr Barlow and his 13-yearold daughter Mikhaela, were among those who helped move the stock out of the Inverloch Library. He was full of praise for the nine library staff, who spent hours on Saturday packing up the stock and taking it to safety. Some had come in from annual leave. The library has been closed since Saturday, but library corporation CEO John Murrell, said it should open again tomorrow. He does not know if any of the 11,000 items

the library houses are damaged, but each will be checked as the stock is unpacked. The carpet tiles are drying out and are undamaged because they have rubber backing. Mr Murrell said the hub appeared to be more badly affected by flood waters than it was in March.The library fared better because staff acted quickly. “It’s disappointing it’s happened a second time.” The Bunurong Environment Centre was flooded too, but opened as usual on Saturday. Inverloch State Emergency Service controller Geoff Swanton said nine volunteers turned out on Friday evening to help the seven or so shops and a couple of houses affected by the flooding. He thought Cr Barlow’s suggestion of a flood plan a good idea. The SES will review its responses, with a view to having trailer loads of sandbags already made up. “We need some analysis of what can be done. “The community has to be prepared.” Meanwhile in South Gippsland, council crews worked until around 9pm Thursday repairing three land slips on roads in the Foster area, and removing just one tree branch. Despite heavy rain, damage was negligible in Downpour: A’Beckett Street Inverloch looked like this at 8pm Friday. other areas.

Workers underpaid He was underpaid the minimum hourly rate and overtime and penalty rates, and was repaid. Several workers in Gippsland in regional Victoria have been reimbursed almost $40,000 as a result of the probe. The largest underpayment was $19,800 for a Bass Coast sales assistant who was underpaid penalty rates, annual leave and long service leave. The worker lodged a complaint with the Fair Work Ombudsman after he did not receive his full entitle-

ments. After Fair Work inspectors contacted the company and explained its obligations, the worker was fully reimbursed all monies owed. Fair Work Ombudsman executive director Michael Campbell says the underpayments were the result of a lack of understanding by the employers of their legal obligations. “That’s why the Fair Work Ombudsman places such a strong focus on educating employers and assisting them to understand and comply with workplace laws,” he said. “In most cases, the Fair Work Ombudsman does not prosecute employers for inadvertent breaches of workplace laws.” The Fair Work Ombudsman has a range of user-friendly resources on its website – www.fairwork.gov.au –

No health risk ALL the rain has kept the storages full, but it’s causing a problem. Manganese that is prevalent in South Gippsland soils, has been washing into the reservoirs. Customers in Leongatha have been particularly affected and the manganese has created discolouration problems. South Gippsland Water managing director Steve Evans, said there is manganese in the soil across South Gippsland and it can appear anywhere throughout the authority’s storages. There is no health risk. Mr Evans said the storage systems have been closely monitored so that the treatment process can be adjusted. If you have any complaints, ring 5682 0444. Mr Evans said storages were at a “very satisfactory” level for this time of year, with most at capacity. The Ruby Creek storage recorded 11mm of rain in the past week, with 10mm at Coalition Creek, 36mm at Deep Creek, 6m at Little Bass and 11mm at Battery Creek. By the end of November, Leongatha had had 768.6mm for the year, slightly more than last year’s 729.1mm. November saw 86.2mm of rain in Leongatha over nine wet days, two of which were particularly wet, with 30.6 on the 14th and 24.8mm on the 27th. Ruby had 127mm over 17 days of rain in November, giving a cumulative total of 1027.5. Fish Creek recorded 131.5mm, nearly double the monthly average of 73.5, giving a year-to-date total of 1113mm. For the three months of spring, there has been 307.5mm. In Meeniyan, 98.5mm fell during 11 wet days in November, making it 884.7mm for the year. That’s about 125mm more than the average.

to assist employees and employers check minimum rates of pay, including PayCheck, Payroll Check and a Pay Rate Calculator. Small to medium-sized businesses without human resources staff can also ensure they are better equipped when hiring, managing and dismissing employees by using free template employment documentation with step-by-step instructions or accessing a series of Best Practice Guides. Online resources also include industry speciﬁc web pages, payslip and record-keeping templates, a selfaudit checklist and fact sheets. Employers or employees seeking advice or assistance can also contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 from 8am-6pm weekdays. For translations call 13 14 50.

Déjà vu: Heather Withers took this photograph of the ﬂooded Inverloch Library.

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A SOUTH Gippsland transport worker was underpaid by $6200, an investigation by the Fair Work Ombudsman has found.

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PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Questioning claims

E D I T O R I A L

Talking rubbish SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council CEO Tim Tamlin has a vision that everyone in this region should get behind: that in the long run, no waste should go to landfill. He believes the policy of the former State Government – and hopefully of the new government – to adopt a zero waste approach is feasible. When one sees just how much waste was dumped in South Gippsland last finacial year, the need to reduce our waste and recycle more is clear. Council collected 3939 tonnes of garbage and 1820 tonnes of recyclables from kerbside collection services, plus a further 269 tonnes from public litterbins. That is in addition to 3521 tonnes of waste delivered to transfer stations. Everyone should try to reduce the amount of waste they produce in their households and select products with recyclable packaging wherever possible. Citizens should also contribute to council’s Waste Management Strategy, whether it be by completing the online survey or attending a public forum this Thursday evening (December 9). But one point the survey does not touch on is whether people want council to recycle even more waste. Even though the range of plastics available for recycling was extended this year, recyclable plastic bags are still an issue, as these clog sorting machines and cannot be collected. The survey does however flag council’s consideration of a green waste service to allow such waste to be recycled as compost and sold to farmers. So long as farmers support the idea, this proposal is a sound way of recycling a waste source close to home. The introduction of a green waste kerbside collection service, as available in some other municipalities, would help achieve this ambition and help people without access to trailers or with smaller backyards dispose of green waste. An extra cost would most likely be incurred but if the service is worthwhile, most people would be willing to support this. One day, Victoria could have a waste to energy plant, burning waste to produce electricity. One such project, powered by wood fuel, is proposed for Sydney. Similar plants, Mr Tamlin said, exist in Europe where diminishing availability of land is restricting development of new landfill sites. With Christmas on our doorstep, and the masses of wrapping paper and packaging that gift giving entails, please think about what you are putting in your bin.

WE’RE a weird and occasionally gullible mob. Over the years so-called entrepreneurs have managed to produce all sorts of deceptions and wonderful scams to take people’s hard earned wealth. The latest incarnation is as amazing as it is simple. Imagine a rather fetching laser etched disc glued to a silicone band. Now if you believe the hype, this magical bit of technology will improve your balance, your strength, your concentration and make you feel better by “tuning your energy”. There was a time when holograms only manipulated light; now they are used to manipulate your wallet. If these bands worked as advertised, they would defy the known laws of physics and chemistry. It’s a popular item at the various alternative therapy festivals that are held around the country. Often called “mind, body, spirit” festivals, the Australian Skeptics have a far more accurate name for these shows: the “mind, body, wallet” festivals. Sadly, a large discount chemist chain is also selling them.

Blair Donaldson, Foster.

Thanking volunteers IN recognition of International Volunteer Day (Sunday, December 5), Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria would like to recognise our own CFA volunteer members and thank the many other members of the community who work alongside them. Victoria’s 60,000 CFA volunteers are there every day of the year, protecting country Victoria and 60 per cent of Melbourne’s suburbs, as frontline emergency response crews and in scores of supporting roles, in command centres, in local communities and in the field. Also part of the team are thousands of State Emergency Service volunteers, and those from the Red Cross, Salvation Army, St John Ambulance, Volunteer Coast Guard and other organisations. When Victoria needs them, volunteers from all walks of life are there, serving on the front line and behind the scenes. CFA volunteer firefighters are trained to professional standards, and have nationally-recognised qualifications for the vital work they do. They work well as part of an integrated team that includes the CFA’s career firefighters and other

full time emergency services personnel. But their task would be considerably more difﬁcult without the tens of thousands of other volunteers who also do their bit when Victoria needs them. Andrew Ford Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria

Stay grounded WHY does one become a local councillor? I often ask this question. Few are hardly very wealthy like our newly elected Premier whose fortune exceeds $380m and has a remarkable family lineage dating back to French nobility. Even his deputy cannot boast anything close, a history of such gallantry. But the election results, both Federal and State, indicated the Australian voter is fed up with the entire political system and the posers that run it. At least with Mr Ballieu, the State of Victoria is now in the hands of an ‘elected’ Premier. But no one seems too terribly enthused about that. But, closer to home, the South Gippsland Shire Council just installed a new mayor. Or more precisely, his fellow colleagues did. All local

councillors. Any one of us has the right to become a councillor without any claim to wealth or fame. It’s a real opportunity extended to ordinary people. And that is exactly what a local councillor is, ordinary, but you wouldn’t think so, going on their performance and behaviour. They compete among themselves for the mayoral role, the crown and robes, the title and adornment, but in the end it all comes down to a vote. Out here in the real world, we do not participate in this prodigious ceremony. It is a sacred rite decided by the innersanctum. It is the councillors that govern over this decision to install a new mayor. It’s all about power and ambition really, people who at public meetings burst out into tantrums and squabble amongst themselves about funds and expense accounts. Once they were like the rest of us seeking a better deal, a fair go. Now they are the architects of local policies that beneﬁt a select few, local businessmen and clubs and now they have a new mayor and leader to shepherd and guide them along to the chopping block, while the rest of us keep our feet hard to the ground. Welcome to the new mayor. Robert Field, Venus Bay.

VOXPOP! VOX Are you concerned about the possibility of bushﬁres this summer and do you have a ﬁre plan?

Time to give The Star this week urges readers to help brighten Christmas by giving to the many appeals established around the region. UnitingCare and Leongatha Rotary Club have joined forces to launch a toy appeal, and St Vincent de Paul Society, Anglicare and the Salvation Army are also taking donations for their causes. A donation can be as simple as a toy or grocery item. What bigger reward on Christmas morning than knowing that somewhere out there, someone is smiling because of your kindness?

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.

It’s a little bit of a worry but I don’t have a plan. Brenton Arnup Leongatha

Everybody would have to say yes. My plan involves getting out. I have pumps full of water but if it’s serious, I’ll just be getting out of there. Len Kartaschew Mt Eccles

Not too concerned. We don’t have a bushﬁre plan but a lot of people have been buying (grass) slashers to prepare for the possibility. Mick Charlton Leongatha

Not really, it ﬂooded in Inverloch the other day so I think we should be right. Barry Withers Inverloch

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 13

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Stan remembered FORMER musician Stan Elliott has been honoured by the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band. A plaque was unveiled in remembrance of Mr Elliott at the band’s Leongatha rooms, the Leongatha Courthouse, recently. A life member of the band, Mr Elliott died earlier this year. The occasion was witnessed by his relatives and members of the South Gippsland Shire and Wonthaggi Citizens bands, who played some of Mr Elliott’s favourite music. The esteemed musician joined the Wonthaggi band in 1940 aged 10 and rose to become principal cornet player, deputy bandmaster, committee member and life member.

After moving to Leongatha, Mr Elliott joined the South Gippsland band in 1968, when it was known as Woorayl Municipal Band. He later served as bandmaster and deputy bandmaster, and took the band to an E Grade win at the Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod. A committee member for more than 35 years, he served as librarian and property ofﬁcer. He taught many musicians over the years and acted as musical mentor to others. In 2009, Mr Elliott received a Victorian Bands League 60 year service award, and was registered as a player with the VBL for an amazing 68 years.

Helping out: placing goods around the Christmas giving tree were, front, Jordan Nagel, Jack Hemming, Jarrod Phillips and Daniel Williams. Back: Sarah Maley, Tamsin Kirkus, Bridget Monaghan, Gemma Coulter, Aidan Walker and Caleb Dihm.

By Tessa Hayward

NON-PERISHABLE goods are needed at Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College to give to those in need.

Fine man: Stan Elliott’s family, wife Eileen and sons Gavin and Garry, and the plaque in remembrance of their father.o

The school has a Christmas Giving Tree and students are encouraged to bring goods to school and place them in the baskets under the tree. “The goods will then be passed on to St Vinnie’s who will distribute them to locals in need of assistance for Christmas,” junior school co-

ordinator Tara Cox said. The Christmas tree is located in the junior school and has been running for many years now. Ms Cox is also promoting the school’s fundraising group, Tiny Ripples of Hope. “It supports the Youth Cancer organisation to raise much needed funds to build specialised youth cancer centres across Australia,” she said. An advertising campaign being run across all television networks shows a teenage boy giving away all of his valued possessions to his

friends and families. It is highlighting the fact that currently in Australia, a young person’s chance of surviving certain cancers decreases by 50 per cent the day they celebrate their sixteenth birthday. “We want to get behind this cause by collecting as many old mobile phones as possible,” Ms Cox said. The mobile phones will then be sent to youcan.org.au to be refurbished and resold. The money made will go towards youth cancer centres.

Making Victoria FireReady

9 things you can do right now. 1 Many homes in high risk bushﬁre

“Without a plan, you haven’t got a hope.” – Tony, Black Saturday Survivor, Clonbinane

staff or visit www.education.vic.gov.au

areas are not built to withstand bushﬁre

6 Prepare a written Bushﬁre Survival

and survival must be your main priority.

Plan and consider the needs of the

To ﬁnd out if you can defend your house

elderly, people with special needs,

from bushﬁre, use the CFA’s online

children, pets and/or livestock.

Household Bushﬁre Self-Assessment

For a free FireReady Kit, visit the CFA

Tool. You can also book a free site

website or call 1800 240 667.

inspection at the CFA website

7 Practise your Bushﬁre Survival Plan.

or call 1800 240 667.

Doing so increases your chances of

2 Clear up around your property.

survival in ﬁre. Fires are erratic and can

Even if you plan to leave well before a

arrive at unexpected times, so make

ﬁre threatens, you may not be able to.

sure you have back-up plans and

A well-prepared building may shield you

alternative exit routes in place.

from radiant heat, which can kill.

8 Regularly monitor conditions, know

3 Find out the location of the nearest

the Fire Danger Rating in your area and

Neighbourhood Safer Place and how

keep up-to-date by tuning into ABC

to get there. The CFA website lists

Local Radio, commercial radio and Sky

Neighbourhood Safer Places.

News. Fire Danger Ratings are your

4 Pack your relocation kit. This should

trigger to act.

contain, food, water, woollen blankets,

9 To be better prepared in your

battery powered radio, mobile phone

local area, join your local Community

with charger, a ﬁrst-aid kit, medication,

Fireguard Group and attend FireReady

prescriptions, important contacts, pet

Victoria community meetings.

food and bedding and anything else you

So start preparing now. For a free

need away from home.

FireReady Kit, or for more information

5 Be aware of your children’s school

on how to prepare, act and survive, visit

Bushﬁre Survival Plan by talking to school

www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call 1800 240 667.

Victoria is one of the most ﬁre-prone areas in the world. So even though we’ve had some good rain recently, we’re still facing another highly dangerous ﬁre season. If you live in the bush, on the coast or along the urban fringe, you need to be FireReady. The more you do to plan and prepare now, the better your chances of survival will be. For more information contact: 1800 240 667 www.cfa.vic.gov.au

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 15

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

New look train unveiled THE volunteers of the South Gippsland Tourist Railway celebrated a major occasion on Saturday in typical rail buff fashion - with a train ride.

Momentous day: South Gippsland Tourist Railway volunteers and DERM 61. Front: Ian Hardy and Trevor Parker. Middle: Brian Castle, Peter Hinksman, Catherine Raven and Glenn Raven. Back: John Loftus, Mark Banﬁeld, John Saynor and Alan Hogben.

The railway has acquired a new rail motor, DERM 61, and a Brill trailer - or passenger car - called MT200. Invited guests and the public travelled on the new machines between Nyora and Leongatha on Saturday. Tourist railway president Glenn Raven said the extra stock will enable the railway to cope with big summer crowds. “This time last year, over summer, with all the people that holiday here, we could not cope with the passenger numbers,” he said. “We hollered out to other railways and asked for more rolling stock.” DERM 61 is owned by the Victorian Goldﬁelds Railway at Maldon and Castlemaine, and is on lease for ﬁve years. MT200 is owned by Australian Railways Historical Society and was restored by Seymour Rail Heritage Centre. The trailer is

Business opens in style CAR lovers were treated to a spectacle at an open day for a new business in Leongatha on Saturday. A dyno challenge was part of the celebrations for the opening of Leongatha Panel Improvements. Drivers could test their vehicle’s horse power capabilities and some vehicles exceeded effective speeds of more than 200km/h on the testing machine. The new business is the dream of young couple Matt Hurst and Carly Roughead. “It’s still a shock that I’m actually doing it,” Matt said. Carly added: “We’ve had a massive amount of support and both being locals, we know a lot of people.” They will provide panel beating, spray painting and window ﬁtting to customers.

A qualiﬁed panel beater, Matt already had jobs lined up for the ﬁrst day of business yesterday (Monday). The open day featured horsepower and show’n’shine competitions, with displays of cars and motorbikes, including a speedway vehicle. Shannon’s Insurance representatives were on hand and the dyno challenge was run by Mike’s Dyno Tuning of Dandenong. Leongatha Panel Improvements is located at 36 Yarragon Road, Leongatha. Phone 5662 4858 or 0439 316 206.

Celebrating: Carly Roughead and Matt Hurst celebrate the opening with friend Mick Beyer. His VH Commodore, ﬁtted with a ﬁve litre 308 engine (pictured), recorded 165.3 horsepower during the dyno challenge.

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also on lease for three years. Volunteers spent all day Friday cleaning the new additions in preparation for Saturday. The railway runs on 36km of track between Nyora and Leongatha, part of the original line between Cranbourne and Yarram. The tourist railway is the longest in the state and the second longest in Australia. Trains run every Sunday, on some public holidays and every Wednesday during Victorian school holidays. See www.sgr.org.au for a current timetable or phone 5658 1111. Volunteers are always welcome and can help with such roles as guards and signals, or learn to be a driver. Charter bookings for businesses, clubs, social groups, birthdays, weddings, and hens and bucks nights are welcome, and dinner packages are available. Driver John Loftus loves the experience. “You deﬁnitely see the countryside in a different way and a lot of the track we travel you can’t see from the road. It’s very picturesque country,” he said.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 17

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Council grants 45 wishes By Isaac McCallum ROUND one of South Gippsland Shire Council’s Community Grants program got underway last week, with 45 recipients rewarded.

Tour de Tarwin: Paul and Robyn Grifﬁths of the Tour de Tarwin Organising Committee collected a grant from Cr Kieran Kennedy.

Lions: Geoff Heide (Lions Club of Leongatha) with Cr Bob Newton and council grants ofﬁcer, Penni Ellicott.

Council presented a total of $189,459.50 to community groups, ranging from $10,000 to $1098 amounts. Councillor James Fawcett described the grants as “the most convenient way for council to support our community groups.” “There never seems to be enough money. It’s our duty as council to ﬁnd ways to fund community programs,” CEO Tim Tamlin said. “It’s amazed me, the breadth of groups we’ve funded. We’ve covered the whole shire thoroughly and we congratulate all the recipients.” One of the funded groups, the Tour de Tarwin organising committee, said their $3000 grant would be a great start to the organising of next year’s event. “Any money we raise gets put back into the community. This will help us with brochures, advertising and things like that,” said the committee’s Robyn Grifﬁths. Last year the group raised $13,000 for the Tarwin Lower CFA. The grants were presented by nine councillors to groups in their respective wards. The following grants were awarded: • Cr James Fawcett: Leongatha Cricket Club’s Turf Committee – turf wicket upgrade, $2700; Leongatha Town Cricket Club – installation of nets, $5000; Nerrena Recreation Reserve Commit-

tee of Management - exterior painting of Ron Christoffersen Rooms, $5000; Ruby Hall Committee Inc. – internal painting, $5000; Mount Best Community Hall – extension and redevelopment of hall, $10,000; and South Gippsland Conservation Society Inc. – Coast and Bush Walks Publication, $2000. • Cr Mimmie Jackson: Leongatha Gymnastics Club – feasibility study into club facility, $1160; Mirboo North Arty Gras Sub Committee – Art-Gras Diversely Different Event, $4000; Leongatha Lyrebirds Guides – kitchen upgrade at the Leongatha Guide Hall, $4830; Fish Creek Football Netball Club – social rooms kitchen refurbishment, $5000; Lions Club of Leongatha – additional rotunda and barbecue facilities at McIndoe Park, $10,000; and Berry’s Creek Pony Club – replacement of safety fencing for arena, $2500. • Cr David Lewis: Allambee South Community Centre – installation of basketball ring, $3279; Mirboo North Pool Committee – pool security system, $2000; Mirboo North Swimming Pool Committee – Mirboo North Idol, $2090; Wayne Tuck Recreation Reserve – replacement of grounds mower, $5000; Mirboo North Golf Club – repairs to Mirboo North Golf Clubhouse, $1098; and St Paul’s Catholic Social Club Inc. – St Pauls Mirboo North Festival, $3000. • Cr Mohya Davies: Prom Coast Arts Council – Great Southern Portrait prize, $4000; Prom Coast Seachange Festival Inc. – $4000; South Gippsland Game Fishing – South Gippsland Game Fishing competition, $2000; Stockyard Gallery – Stockyard Gallery Community Prized Event – Life Aquatic,

Ruby and Bena Halls: Ruby’s Margery Robson and Bena’s Terry Lanigan were happy with the grants they received. $4000; and Great Southern Rail Trail Inc. COM – a structural integrity study, $10,000. • Cr Jeanette Harding: Toora Community Hall Inc. – redevelopment and removal of asbestos roof, $10,000; Toora Swimming Pool – completion of drainage and blinds at heated pool, $3877.50; Welshpool and District Advisory Group – Prom Coast Summer Festival, $4000; Hedley Hall and Recreation Committee – hall upgrade and redevelopment of public amenities, $5000; and Port Franklin Hall Committee – installation of two electric barbecues and upgrade facilities, $2500. • Cr Kieran Kennedy: The Men’s Den at Venus Bay – interior, $5000; Venus Bay Community Centre Inc. – development of community orchard and gathering place, $5000; Port Welshpool Bowling Club – planning and development study for long term viability, $1325; and Tour de Tarwin Organising Committee – Tour de Tarwin, $3000. • Cr Jennie Deane: Bena Hall Inc. – electrical upgrade,

$2430; Meeniyan Mechanics Institute – Meeniyan Hall restoration, $10,000; Stony Creek Racing Club – Stony Creek Easter Family Festival marketing, $3210; and Lyrebird Arts Council – Mossvale Music Festival, $4000. • Cr Bob Newton: Korumburra Business Association – purchase of Christmas decorations, $2000; Meeniyan Youth Committee – Meeniyan Youth Precinct development plan, $10,000; Koonwarra/ Leongatha RSL Cricket Club – centre wicket replacement, $3000; Milpara Community House – OH&S equipment for Milpara Men’s Shed, $1000; and Meeniyan Golf Club Inc. – Give Golf a Go 2010 event, $1700. • Cr Warren Raabe: Korumburra Bowling Club Inc. – business/strategic plan, $1325; Korumburra City Soccer Club – repair ground lighting, $4000; Korumburra Agricultural and Pastoral Society – Korumburra showgrounds planning and development, $6435; and South Gippsland Busker’s Festival, $3000.

Manly grant: Geoff Hartshorn (treasurer), Don Kennedy (president) and Colin West (secretary) of the Men’s Den – Venus Bay.

If you drive into a dense locust swarm, pull over.

Cricketers joy: Brad Anderson (Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL), Gary Sauvarin (Leongatha Cricket Club’s Turf Committee), Janine Clark (Nerrena Recreation Reserve committee) and Steve Fixter (Leongatha Town Cricket Club) were happy to see cricket supported.

Locust swarms can be a driving hazard. Swarms can be very dense and make it difﬁcult to see the road and oncoming trafﬁc. If locusts obstruct your vision, slow down and pull over safely to the side of the road until the swarm has passed. To report swarm activity call the DPI Locust Hotline on 1300 135 559. DPI0092_LS_SWM

DPI Locust Hotline 1300 135 559

Meeniyan and Stony Creek: Ralph Gallagher (Stony Creek Racing Club), Cr Bob Newton, Sue Hoskin (Meeniyan Golf Club) and John Mackie (Meeniyan Mechanics Institute) with their grants.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 19

Focus on the ability By Isaac McCallum THE HOSTS of Leongatha’s events for the International Day of People with a Disability adorned themselves in t-shirts reading ‘capability, not disability’. The message was clear – we are able! And as the group sang, danced and sold food they had prepared outside the South Gippsland Shire Council ofﬁces on Friday, it became obvious that they were. Volunteers Dennis Kadmon and AnneMarie Becu were proud of their friends, and the achievements they have made, not just in the past few weeks. “Our thrust has been about dignity, empowerment and originality,” Anne-

Marie said. “It’s so beautiful to see the guys here today; their conﬁdence has grown so much.” The two cite music as the main vehicle that has helped the kids grow since they began working with them seven years ago. Both were awarded with Sister Faith awards from Yooralla a couple of weeks ago. They were the only two to receive the awards from among all of the volunteers across Victoria. “It was really quite an honour, Dennis has been such a gentle teacher,” AnneMarie said.

Above: Master chefs: Mycalie James, Emily Ardley and Brodie James with food they prepared to be sold.

Rocking out: Emily Drysdale, Coran Djuric and Lisa Backmann played to a nice tune.

Left: Clowning around: Dale Adams of Inverloch stopped to enjoy the festivities of the day. Right: Play us a song: drummers Emily Ardley and Nathan Sammutt jam with Tamara Chumbley.

Left: Capability, not disability: Leonie Macallister, Brendan Allen and Mitchell Price get the message across.

Thiess gives protestor the boot Here comes Santa By Jane Ross INVETERATE desalination plant protestor Maurice Schinkel, has been given the boot. A letter, delivered by courier to his home and signed by no less a personage than Greg Miller, project director for construction company Thiess Degremont, told Mr Schinkel no one from the company would communicate with him. Further, he was not welcome at the desalination project information ofﬁce in Wonthaggi. Mr Schinkel told The Star the letter didn’t bother him, but it had upset his partner Patsy Hunt, who had had to sign for it at the door to their home. He said he knew of two others - also members of Watershed Victoria - who had received similar correspondence. “It’s indicative of the way they (the construction company) operate,”

he said. At last week’s Bass Coast Council meeting, Mr Schinkel asked whether desalination plant consortium AquaSure had hired council meeting space “for urgent occupational health and safety training”. Council CEO Allan Bawden, said he didn’t know but he would ﬁnd out. He asked Mr Schinkel if he had received answers to other questions that he had put to the desalination community liaison committee. “I’ve given up dealing with the community liaison group,” said Mr Schinkel. He told The Star later about the “goodbye” letter, adding, “I found the community liaison group to be a completely useless forum for anything.” The following comment was provided by Serena Middleton, Thiess Degremont desalination project stakeholder and community relations manager: “Unfortunately, we have had to advise one person that they are no longer welcome in our community

information centre, following a history of inappropriate behaviour towards our staff. “Two other people have been asked to refrain from similar behaviour. All three people can and do continue to write to us with questions, and we continue to assist them. “Our community information centre provides information to interested members of the community about the Victorian desalination project. “As an employer, we have a duty to provide a safe working environment for our staff – they are simply doing their job and have the right to attend work without being abused.” Mr Schinkel also asked the council whether it would pursue with the CEO of AquaSure, the ﬁnding of dead short tailed sheerwaters on Williamsons Beach, site of the desalination plant. Mr Bawden said he would follow it up.

SANTA is coming to Wonthaggi, courtesy of the town’s business association.

He will be in the window of Toy World in McBride Avenue from Saturday, December 11 for two weeks, arriving by open car. Santa will be available to pose for photos and chat to children between 10am and 3pm during the week (with a break for lunch at 12.30) and from 9am

to 1pm on the two Saturdays. The business association has been urging traders to decorate their windows with a Christmas theme and there will be a prize for the best dressed window. Arrangements are underway to have decorations put up in the CBD and there has been some discussion about a market day on Thursday, December 16, but this is yet to be ﬁnalised.

Street smart already THREE hundred and ﬁfteen preschoolers have been trained in road safety in readiness for the new school year. Organised by South Gippsland Shire Council, school crossing supervisors visited nine kindergartens and childcare centres across the shire during November to deliver the Road Safety Education Program. “We’ve run this education program for several years now and we ﬁnd it removes

a lot of anxiety from both the children and their parents,” local laws co-ordinator Ian Nicholas said. “By setting up mock road crossings, the children integrate a practical experience of the crossing rules and develop some spatial awareness. Presenting it as a fun exercise certainly encourages their participation and learning.” Council manages 10 school crossings in the shire and employs 10 permanent crossing supervisors who are supported by four casual relief ofﬁcers.

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Front of house: receptionist Stacey Disher (seated) with Amanda Kamphuis (right) and Jen Bradshaw. Jen is in accounts payable and Amanda accounts.

Retail staff: from left, Paula O’Loughlin, Scott Hogan and Mick Flynn. The clock in the foyer of the Evans’ ofﬁces bears the same company logo as that on the staff uniform.

Family business: managing director Stuart Evans (centre) with his wife Jenene, who is a company director and their son Warren, who manages stock control and IT.

By Jane Ross EVANS Petroleum Gippsland celebrates its 40th anniversary today. At first, managing director Stuart Evans thought he’d let the moment pass as just another birthday. But, the more he considered the magnitude of the four decades and what it says about his loyal staff and the more they persuaded him, the more he felt it needed to be publicised. “It’s not about me,” he stressed. “I’ve had really good staff; I couldn’t do it by myself. “I wouldn’t be here without my staff.” Or his wife Jenene, who is a director and an ongoing support. All told, there are 108 employees, making Stuart one of the biggest private employers in Leongatha and South Gippsland. Some of his staff have been with him for many years, others have been welcomed more recently. They all seem to go about their daily tasks with smiles on their faces, which indicates they’re happy on the job. It all began with Stuart’s father Reg. He was the area representative for Esso and when the company wanted to move him to Shepparton, he decided he didn’t want to go. So, Reg and his wife Mary bought Kevin and Graham Spencer’s business and when Stuart left school, he joined his parents. They employed Ted Dowd as a driver and that was the extent of the staff. Petrol sold for 32 cents a gallon, the equivalent of seven cents a litre. Diesel was 18 cents a gallon, or four cents a litre. Mary did some of the office work until six months later, Reg employed Judy Hattam (now Wise) as the first office girl. “Originally, there was only the Leongatha depot and a lot of smaller ones,” recalled Stuart. In March 1971, Reg bought the Stony Creek depot. A few years later, he purchased the Korumburra

Growth: by the mid to late 70s, expansion had started.

depot. Wonthaggi was bought in the late 1970s and others were added gradually. Now, there are 11 sites and Stuart does his best to visit them all from time to time. He cites the steady growth of the business as one of the main highlights of its 40-year history. Reg and Mary retired in 1989. Now, Stuart works with his son Warren. To add to the family atmosphere, Dave Creed is the firm’s accountant. He’s the partner of Stuart and Jenene’s daughter Ebony. Their other daughter Abby Challis lives in Melbourne. But her interior decorating skills were called into play when Stuart had the offices renovated recently. They look spacious and modern and the new décor is complemented by an attractive rockery garden out the front. Stuart and Warren say they work well together and Stuart likes the continuity of that. “I worked with my father, now Warren is working with me.” Stuart also thinks that the family nature of the business helps set an amicable atmosphere from which all the staff benefit. Many have stayed for a long time. Kevin Guthrie has just retired after 27 years with Evans Petroleum.

Geoff Michael has too, after 24 years and so has Gail Burge, who spent 14 years there. Steve Lovie is another; after 28 years, he left to work with his son in JSL Light Engines. John Schelling and Brian Hallyburton have senior roles and are both nudging the 30-year employee mark. Brian is the depot manager and John the sales manager. Paula O’Loughlin joined the company 22 years ago. Her role is in retail administration and promotions. An integral part of the latter has been a near 20 year involvement with Mobil and the ﬁeld days at Lardner Park. One of the longest serving employees is driver Geoff Renton. Originally, the Evans family had the Esso distributorship. Then, in 1991, Mobil bought out Esso and Stuart and Jenene formed an equity company with Mobil. In a further change, the retail side of the business has become part of BP, although 35 per cent of Evans’ fuel comes from Mobil. “So, we’re Mobil/BP,” Stuart explained. From a single depot, Evans Petroleum has expanded to the 11 retail sites, delivery of fuel to farmers and other commercial consumers and transporting fuel for other clients. Continued on page 24.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 21

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 23

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Managers: front, from left, Russell Mills (operations/health and safety), Warren Evans (stock control and IT), John Schelling (sales manager). Back from left, Scott Hogan (retail manager), David Creed (administration/ accounts), Stuart Evans (managing director), Mick Flynn, (retail support) Brian Hallyburton, (depot/despatch) and John Amarant (ﬁnancial controller).

Still pumping - 40 years on Continued from page 20. “People see all these tankers and think we sell a lot of fuel, but some of it is the carting. We cart fuel to Bairnsdale, Shepparton, Ballarat and in the metropolitan area, all of it picked up from Yarraville.” The fuel carting was taken up in 2000, to end the frustration of waiting for deliveries. “That changed our business dramatically.” John Schelling tells the story – with a grin on his face, of the Evans’ driver he dubbed “the laziest on two legs”. “He’d still be here at 10.30 in the morning and when he’d come back at 7 at night, we

thought he was just after the overtime.” In truth, the poor bloke had been waiting – and waiting for fuel to be delivered to the Leongatha depot so that he could transport it on. That waiting doesn’t happen now. The days of delivering heating oil in the winter and bottled gas, have all but passed. Evans Petroleum employs 17 drivers plus a few casuals working day and night shifts. There are 12 tankers ranging in capacity from 16,000 litres to 19 metre long B-doubles that cart up to 52,000 litres. “This time of year is pretty hectic, with deliveries to farms doing silage and hay. We have

four trucks doing farm deliveries.” The growth has been good and steady, but the real ﬁllip came in 2003, when Stuart formed an equity company with Mobil. “That was one of my best moves.” It hasn’t always been plain sailing. Stuart recalled some tight and awkward times, such as the 1970s when farmers were having a really bad run. Also, when American president George Bush Senior went into Iraq in the 1990s. “Because of the fear of a shortage, the price (of fuel) went up.” Prices escalated a couple of years ago too,

impacting on distributors as well as motorists. “We are affected by world crude (oil) prices and the American dollar. Instability in the Middle East can impact on pricing too.” What’s been the secret of Stuart and Jenene’s success? Apart from their staff, who are number one, Stuart cites persistence. “And the important thing is when you are doing your job, to do it to the best of your ability.”

It’s all local EVANS Petroleum sales manager John Schelling, summarised his feelings about being part of the company family. “The biggest plus about working for Evans Petroleum is that some of us have worked for other, bigger companies,” he said. “Working for a local bloke is a big thing, plus it makes you feel part of the community. “That spreads out to involvement with local community groups.” New South Gippsland Shire mayor Cr Warren Raabe, said Evans Petroleum’s 40 year anniversary was symptomatic of “this very blue chip area”. “Stuart Evans has done a good job out of that.” Cr Raabe said South Gippsland “grows grass all year, the soil’s good and so is the rainfall”. Businesses are able to take advantage of that.

In the beginning: Stuart Evans and his parents Reg and Mary began Evans Petroleum with this Esso Service centre.

“We’re a strong district. “We saw that during the (world) ﬁnancial crisis. “Prices didn’t collapse and we have very few bankruptcies.”

Like family: Stuart Evans and John Schelling wrapped themselves in Mobil ﬂags to help promote the ﬁeld days at Lardner Park. John says working for “a local bloke” creates a community atmosphere. History: this is how things looked in the mid 1980s.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 25

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 27 ADVERTISEMENT

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PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Mirboo North’s recovery complete By Isaac McCallum

Hard workers: Bushﬁre Recovery case managers Hendrika Timmermans and Heather Calder chat with recovery manager Norman Walker.

A GROUP of 75 volunteers, South Gippsland Shire Council officers and the victims of Mirboo North’s devastating bushfires 18 months ago have gathered to finally put the past behind them.

‘Tree’ of them: Jacinta Hicken from the Darlimurla telephone tree committee, Bushﬁre Recovery Committee member Tessa Livera and Margaret Ross of the Delburn telephone tree committee.

The community barbecue last Tuesday afternoon marked a year and a half since the recovery began, and the final day of the closure of the Mirboo North Bushfire Recovery and Project Office. “People have been able to move on; it’s been a long recovery process. Nobody lost their life, but three homes were lost,” said bushfire recovery manager, Norman Walker. Recovery was split in to three six month blocks. The first was the physical recovery, as families rebuilt their houses, sheds and fences.

For most people, the physical recovery started almost straight away, but people were still struggling mentally. “As the adrenaline wore off people were starting to get anxious. They were asking themselves ‘Why am I feeling like this?’ That’s when the program really got going,” Mr Walker said. The recovery volunteers set up community counselling, with inspiring talks from burns victim and former AFL star Jason McCartney, as well as Gloria Jean’s Coffees owner, Peter Irvine. Mr Irvine spoke of losing the initial warehouse to fire, and how he recovered from it to become a stronger businessman and person. The final stage of the recovery was preparing for the next bushfire season, with volunteers and experts helping residents create personal and neighbourhood fire plans. “Mirboo North was a pretty resilient community to begin with and I

think this has really just reinforced that to people,” Mr Walker said. There will still be programs to inform newcomers to town to feel more confident about dealing with a fire. As part of the recovery, a system devised to ensure that information is passed onto residents in Darlimurla and Delburn has been arranged. Residents have given their phone numbers and addresses to council representatives, who will know who to call with any information about fire dangers, bans or general safety issues. The information will flow on as one resident will ring two more, and so on. “This will be really helpful for those who live pretty far out. If people need help they can ring around, and it will bring the community together,” said Tessa Livera, who was part of the recovery committee.

Young writers’ Headstart WONTHAGGI Secondary College hosted some of the country’s richest writing talent yesterday as part of its Headstart writers’ workshop. Year 9 students were given access to a stable of Ford Street Publishing’s best writers, including internationally published Australian SF and fantasy author Sean McMullen and agent, publisher, writer and editor Paul Collins. Also on the guest list were local journalist Lee Opitz, songwriters Pete and Nikki Baird, stage writer Will Hanley, Wonthaggi teen crime writer Beth Montgomery and the school’s very own Chrissie Michaels, author of the recently released In Lonnie’s Shadow.

The English teacher and renowned teen author said the event was about making sure younger students didn’t lose touch with their creative sides. “When kids get to their senior school subjects they tend to lose that idea of creative writing. It all gets geared toward formal essay writing for VCE,” she said. “They sometimes lose their creative and imaginative side. This will inspire them to write creatively.” The English faculty has had writers as guests in the past, but never a group en masse. Each of the writers taught groups of about 20 students. “We decided to ask the Ford Street publishers to come along as well, as

Sean McMullen: the SF and fantasy author was among the many writers who taught students at Wonthaggi Secondary College yesterday. our main group of city authors. We’ve got some really good local people too, who offered lots of different things for the students,” Chrissie said. Yesterday’s student

Park visitors rise AN AVERAGE of 92 people visited Coal Creek Community Park and Museum every day between July and September this year. The Korumburra park was visited by 8439 people during that period, a rise of six per cent for the same period last year. The rise has been attributed to more local people becoming aware of the park and greater use by local schools. School use has risen by 34 per cent for the September quarter compared to

2009, with schools from Korumburra, Leongatha, Meeniyan, Foster, Wonthaggi and Poowong visiting. More community groups are using the park for training and information, generating income. The Leongatha Medieval Society is among the most recent additions, joining the likes of the South Gippsland Wind Orchestra, Korumburra Gardening Club and Milpara Men’s Shed. Art exhibitions are held occasionally, complementing the museum.

Meals roster (Leongatha) Catholic Women’s league, S. Birch and John and Joy Gaze will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning December 13, 2010.

work, which resulted in “some really beautiful pieces,” will form the basis of something for next year. “They wrote as Year 10 students, because they’ll be moving from the junior to

the senior school and using the materials as part of the Headstart program next year. It’s a really fun way to look at writing and something a bit different,” Chrissie said.

Council thinks climate change BASS Coast Council is making sure its planning scheme can cope properly with climate change impacts. Accordingly, at their November meeting, councillors were asked to agree to an amendment to the shire’s planning scheme. They did. The need for the amendment arose because when council resolved in March 2008 to seek floodway and inundation overlays, the mapping didn’t cover the full extent of areas subject to flooding. Changes include extending the land near the Powlett River that is flood prone and putting in place an inundation overlay on land at the south east of Inverloch liable to storm surge, tidal inundation or river flooding. Councillors learned that the Victorian Coastal Strategy contains a number of policies relating to climate change, such as planning for sea level rises of not less than 0.8 of a metre, allowing for the combined effects of tides, storm surges, topography and geology and applying a precautionary principle to planning decisions. If there are submissions to the amendment once it is exhibited, council resolved to send these to Planning Panels Victoria for consideration.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 29

AN expansive brick home in Leongatha is for sale through Prom Country First National. Read about it on page 34.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Ross Johnson’s fresh approach R

OSS Johnson Real Estate is the new force in the South Gippsland region.

Based in Leongatha, this newly formed company was established by Ross Johnson, a born and bred local, who travelled and worked out of the area before returning “home” to run the family property in the 1970s. Being a local, Ross knows the area exceptionally well, and with his previous experiences has a network of contacts both statewide and interstate. Call in for a no obligation chat and experience the fresh, friendly and enthusiastic approach that Ross offers in his new surrounds. Ross has a “buyer list” but needs more properties to sell, particularly dairy farms and bigger grazing properties. There will be local community beneﬁts in listing and selling with Ross, and he can promise you that he will leave “no stone unturned” in the effort to sell your property.

Ross loves the real estate business. “In selling real estate you are dealing with someone’s biggest asset and if they are buying they are making the biggest investment they will in their life, so they should be given the time and service it requires,” he said. Ross is a community oriented person, having played VFL/AFL football, coached and played local football, and has also been a popular sports administrator in the region. Ross, having worked in real estate for more than 10 years with Australia’s two largest pastoral houses, recognised the need for a local independent real estate agent for Leongatha and its rich surrounding district. He is proud to be an “independent”, and offers you a fresh enthusiastic approach, and prompt professional service in all aspects of real estate, whether it be rural, lifestyle, residential, commercial, industrial or an investment property. He looks forward to catching up with you at 59 Bair Street, Leongatha.

Ready to go: Ross Johnson has just opened Ross Johnson Real Estate in Bair Street, Leongatha.

Come and inspect Koorooman Blueberries T

HIS is an outstanding opportunity to secure 78 acres within a short drive of Leongatha.

At a glance Location: Smirls Road, Leongatha North. Price: more than $980,000. Agent: Elders, Leongatha. Contact: Zel Svenson 0438 636 290.

The property is known in the Leongatha area for its business ‘Koorooman Blueberrries,’ which will be sold with the property, however this is only one of the features of this magnificent property. New buyers may like to continue and expand this business, or decide not to continue it. Either way the property is sure to impress. The brick home is ideally positioned with commanding views overlooking the property and beyond. The vendors designed the home, which offers three spacious bedrooms with built-in robes, the master with an en suite, plus a study or good sized fourth bedroom. The main bathroom offers a spa bath, and separate toilet. Open living with magnificent views is also a feature of the home, with a lovely cosy open fire place a feature in the living room. The kitchen is brand new and has been commercially certified, with quality appliances, excellent storage, feature polished floorboards and a rural view

you must see to entirely appreciate. Outside, ample shedding includes three bay machinery shed, smaller storage shed, hay shed and more. Equestrian facilities have been setup and include dressage area (ménage), two stables, wash area, tack room and round yard. The blueberries are totally established and include 750 organic plants (various varieties), drip feed

irrigation system, totally netted. There is also a cool room. It is an excellent business, with room to expand if it interests the new purchaser. The remaining productive acres (about 72) are currently used to graze beef cattle which are watered by troughs in each paddock. Open for inspection Saturday, December 11 from 11.45am to 12.15pm.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 31

Genuine vendor moving on W

ITHIN easy walking distance to the Leongatha shops, this quality weatherboard home is in immaculate condition in a handy location. The owner of this property is genuine, as they are moving on. It features fresh paint inside and out, a formal living area, plus second living or At a glance Location: 61 Peart Street, Leongatha. Price: $289,000. Agent: Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 5800.

rumpus room overlooking the yard. The neat kitchen has a dishwasher and dining area. There is also a second dining or study area, reverse cycle air conditioner, outdoor entertaining area, lock-up garage and carport, accessible, level yard handy for trailer storage or play equipment. An inspection of this Leongatha ﬁnd is sure to impress.

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Prom Country

STRZELECKI BAKERY – Iconic Mirboo North Business

A Touch of French Provincial

The Strzelecki Bakery is a high proﬁle, well respected and proﬁtable business in the heart of Mirboo North. Quality products are provided, the range is extensive & all made locally, & the service ethic is to be envied. Strongly supported by the local community & visited by the day-trippers to Mirboo North & surrounds, the returning & increasing clientele are testament to the progressive growth of the business, with additional potential to be realized. Offered with extensive plant & equipment on a WIWO basis.

Set amidst a gorgeous, country garden, this expansive 3 BR homestead offers numerous lifestyle and business opportunities. Featuring a flexible floorplan, ‘tea room’ infrastructure, polished baltic pine floors, high ceilings, creamy butter tonings and wide verandahs to 3 sides for outdoor living. Outdoors you’ll find mature trees, enclosed orchard, chicken run, raised veggie beds, 1+ acre of lavender, drying shed/cottage, dam, watering system, shadehouse, huge steel shed & more!

INSPECT By Appointment Address 82 Ridgway, MIRBOO NORTH

INSPECT By Appointment Address 1 Porter Lane, MIRBOO NORTH

All enquiries to agent

Y N DA PE UR O AT S S I H

$625,000 Y N DA PE R O ATU S IS

Miles of Executive Style on Giles!

Gold! and it’s Not Sold!

Super Couper!

Unsurpassed Mirboo North accommodation, work from home opportunity and living space here! three (or four) bedrooms, four living areas including a huge, stunning lower level, modern, self contained retreat perfect for teenage, in-law, paying, or home business (run your own ﬁtness studio!). Three bathrooms, massive quality timber kitchen, views across farmland, easy maintenance gardens. This property has been improved and renovated whilst retaining quality original features.

Around 35 acres in 2 titles with a Planning Permit. Magniﬁcent rolling hills, outstanding views, dams, fencing, sheds, stockyards & loading race. Current owner providing power. Golden opportunity. INSPECT By Appointment Address 1665 Yarragon-Leongatha Road, HALLSTON $259,000

Position perfect with loads of character and high ceilings. Big bright rooms, 2 - 3 brms, brilliant bungalow, double garage, elevated deck & BBQ area, Features SF heater, ceiling fans, 2 showers. INSPECT Saturday @ 12.00 - 12.30pm Address 5 Couper Street, MIRBOO NORTH $245,000 - $265,000

INSPECT Saturday @ 11.00 - 11.30am Address 29 Giles Street, MIRBOO NORTH

$380,000 - $420,000

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

Selling Properties

24/7

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

allen bartlett 0417 274 624

Gorgeous Prom Views – 2 Acres Plus

You Know You’ll Love the Life in Yinnar

Stunning home designed & positioned for utmost livability. Views of rolling hills & Corner Inlet. Gleaming blue gum ﬂoors, elegant décor & plenty of glass are some of the features. Spacious open plan living areas & soaring timber-lined ceilings to frame the views. 3 bedrooms, study, 2 bathrooms, good fencing & shedding, all around 10 minutes from Foster. Parking for 2 vehicles. In a glorious country garden surround with a mix of mostly native plantings - the perfect country retreat!

This 5 acre approx parcel is a delightful balance of grass, pasture & a smaller zone of native Australian bush. Raise your own animals, or enjoy the locals – koalas, wallabies & echidnas are your nearest neighbours. A triple carport, double garage or shed, & ample water from tank & dam all complement the colonial style home. You’ll ﬁnd extensive use of timber throughout the expansive living zones, 3 brms, 2 bathrooms & features of an OFP, wood heater, spa bath & soaring ceiling heights.

INSPECT Sunday @ 1.30 - 2.00pm Address 1014 Ameys Track, FOSTER NORTH

INSPECT Sunday @ 1.30 - 2.00pm Addresss 405 Whitelaws Track,YINNAR SOUTH

$425,000 - $475,000

kaz hughes 0417 516 998

$350,000 - $380,000

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

lisa williams 0438 133 385

glenys foster property management

julie fowkes property management

Ten Acre Horse Haven

Share Your Air With Eagles

This rare, rural package is in Prom Country, where beaches are “down the road”, the pony club and the rail trail are close. An open plan, home with 3 bedrooms, sits in a sheltered position, with plenty of level ground and easy access to the paddocks & shedding that’s all so perfectly set up for horses. Features include a wood heater, verandah, full length windows facing north, spacious kitchen, & a fully enclosed carport. Well planned, well cared for, outdoor facilities include 13 paddocks, dam, race & yards, tack room & stable, hay shed and troughs. The gentle north sloping pastures will also suit cattle or crop. Vegetable gardens, maturing productive trees, berries, & vines are all in place. Ideal as a comfy permanent home or weekender, around 2 hours from Melbourne. INSPECT Sunday @ 12.00 - 12.30pm Address 36 Main Street, BUFFALO $380,000 - $410,000

Rising well above the Valley, this private, sheltered 8 acre parcel, with spectacular views is within easy commute of Morwell & Mirboo Nth. The homestead bursts with architectural interest. Floor length cedar windows, full length verandas, split level design and a happy blend of old and new combine to offer a welcoming 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home that maximizes views and provides spacious, ﬂowing living. A self contained 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, cottage offers independent accommodation options. An easy accessed, terraced orchard provides a huge variety of produce, and stunning, easy care gardens, great shedding, all beautifully maintained, make this a perfect haven for people, chooks, and wombats. INSPECT By Appointment Address 973 Whitelaws Track,YINNAR SOUTH $380,000 - $420,000

5664 0224

93 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan 84 Ridgway, Mirboo North promcountryre.com.au

emma sullings marketing

5668 1660

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 33

Prom Country Y N DA PE UR O AT S S I H

N U PE S O RI & F IS TH

Queen of the Court

Nest or Invest

Corner Pocket – LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!

A fantastic 3-4 brm family home with all the space and zones of a modern ﬂoor plan, 3 living areas, 2 bathrooms, big kitchen. Northern entertaining deck, double garage. A surprise package! INSPECT Saturday @ 12.00- 12.30pm Address 3 Eveline Court, MIRBOO NORTH $330,000 - $360,000

Step inside & be surprised by polished timber ﬂoors, art deco ceilings, & fresh paintwork.3 BRs, bathroom with spa, & 2 loos. Great location - walk everywhere. INVEST-$12,000+ pa return or NEST- and enjoy! INSPECT By Appointment Address 1 Giles Street, MIRBOO NORTH $215,000 - $235,000

We’re sorry to resort to clichés, but this is one of the best “four corners” in Leongatha – and this family friendly home is one of them! Walk to schools, the shops, and the parks. Renovated and extended, 4 bedrooms incl. an upstairs retreat with ensuite and TV/study nook opening to a balcony! Zoned for kids with their own living space, plus separate lounge, meals and 2nd compute/music zone. Great outdoor area, shed, double carport, courtyard gardens, fully re-clad and insulated. INSPECT Friday @ 8.00 - 8.30pm and Sunday @ 11.00 - 11.30am Address 8 Brumley Street, LEONGATHA

$340,000 - $370,000

Artist’s impression

Stand Out Value & Appeal

Shine in Shinglers Ridge

Cottage Style-Town Convenience

Village Fare Coffee Shop

Extended, renovated, refined. In elevated position not far to shops. Light-filled living, separate office/ study, 3 brms, decked entertaining area, workshop, carport, watering system, BBQ area. Perfect. INSPECT By Appointment Address 38 Greenwood Parade, LEONGATHA $240,000 - $260,000

Nearing completion, this beautiful home combines country warmth & contemporary styling. Open, bright living zone with pitched ceiling and timber ﬂoors, 3 BRS, 2 bath, dble garage & 2 verandahs. INSPECT By Appointment Address 6 Floraston Drive, LEONGATHA $320,000 - $340,000

Federation-inspired 3 brm character home on a 650sqm (approx) level block, in heart of Leongatha. Two spacious living zones, 2 bath, kitchen with 5 burner range, carport, shed. Lots of inclusions. INSPECT By Appointment Address 3 Leslie Street, LEONGATHA $265,000 - $285,000

Successful business opposite Safeway and walk thru to McCartin St. Immaculately presented, impressive food display, seats 50 and good catering sideline. Ready-made, established and respected operation. INSPECT By Appointment Address 7 McNamara Place, LEONGATHA $155,000 - $170,000

Selling Properties

24/7

Y N DA PE R O ATU S IS

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

allen bartlett 0417 274 624

Think Inside the Square

Neat, Petite,Totally Sweet

With elevated outlooks and backing onto pasture, you’ll ﬁnd this attractive brick veneer home with a clever and unusual ﬂoorplan. The home wraps around - and opens onto - a leafy central courtyard, and features 3 bedrooms (one with WIR, two with BIRs), 2 bathrooms, formal lounge and dining rooms, and a combined casual meals/ living room. Other features include blackwood kitchen, garage URL with direct access, ducted vacuum, and level to gently sloping, rear landscaped garden.

Looking for an easy-to-manage, smaller home that has plenty of outdoor space where you won’t feel claustrophobic? On a wedge-shaped, near-level allotment of around 915sqm at the top of a court, you will ﬁnd this light-ﬁlled, two bedroom home. Inside, the open-plan living zone is bright and tastefully decorated in neutral tones and opens onto a rear, full length verandah. Outside there is a single carport URL, lock-up utility shed, water tank, veggie beds, and glorious roses.

INSPECT Sunday @ 12.00 - 12.30pm Address 76 Baromi Road, MIRBOO NORTH

INSPECT Saturday @ 12.00 - 12.30pm Address 10 Eveline Court, MIRBOO NORTH

$285,000 - $315,000

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

kaz hughes 0417 516 998

$225,000 - $250,000

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

lisa williams 0438 133 385

glenys foster property management

julie fowkes property management

“Eucalypt Ridge” A Rare, Balanced Lifestyle

“THORNBURGH” – Back to the Future

Nestled in amongst tall Australian grey gums, with a parcel of protective native bush to the west and surrounded by classic South Gippsland farmland, this 6 acre (approx) haven offers peace, tranquility and beautiful balance. The residence is of brick and cedar, with dual north facing living spaces, a timber kitchen with modern appliances, picture windows, hardwood ﬂoors, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and is the coziest of country accommodation. Outdoors, decked verandas, brick paved pathways and delightful landscaping are enhanced by a productive veggie garden and a 20 tree orchard, a paddock for sheep, a run for chooks, and shedding and water storage suited to the property size and substance. INSPECT Sunday @ 1.30 - 2.00pm Address 80 Palmross Road, LEONGATHA NORTH $400,000 - $450,000

Expansive brick home, on an elevated 1600sqm (approx), for the buyer with an appreciation for quality and substance, who will recognize the enormous potential for this property to re-emerge as one of Leongatha’s finest. The ingredients: constructional integrity across 30+ squares of a streamlined architectural style; modern floor plan and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors; extensive brick work, cedar timber ceilings and huge living spaces; 2 bathrooms, 3 toilets and 5 bedrooms; elevated outlooks; deep, brick-paved verandas and private court yard style gardens. The successful buyer will relish the opportunity to bring this masterpiece back to the future it deserves.

5664 0224

INSPECT Sunday @ 12.00 - 12.30pm Address 9-11 MacDonald Street, LEONGATHA

93 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan 84 Ridgway, Mirboo North promcountryre.com.au

emma sullings marketing $350,000 - $375,000

5668 1660

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Quality and substance B

UILT to last, this expansive brick home, on an elevated 1600sqm (approx) block in Leongatha’s preferred east side, will be sold to a buyer with an appreciation for quality and substance, and who will recognise the enormous potential for this property to re-emerge as one of Leongatha’s ﬁnest.

The ingredients are all there. Constructional integrity spans the breadth of the 30-plus squares of a streamlined architectural style, with modern floor plan and floor-toceiling windows and doors. Extensive brick work and cedar timber ceilings are carried effectively by the huge living spaces. Two bathrooms, three toilets and five bedrooms provide ample facilities for family living. Outlooks across the rooftops and surrounding hills of Leongatha’s township satisfy the often-sought light and space requirements of a country town lifestyle. Deep, brick-paved verandahs are reached through walls of glass, front and rear, from the living rooms directly into private courtyard-style gardens for outdoor enjoyment all year round. The modern concept of family-zoned living is here ahead of its time, where two completely separate living and bedroom zones access a central kitchen, and where each zone can be closed off from the other – a concept often lost in the inflexible spaces of today’s open plan homes. There is no doubt the successful buyer will want to enhance and improve what is here. The beauty of this particular property is that the work you put into this unique offering will reap rewards. We look forward to meeting the buyer who will relish the opportunity to bring this masterpiece back to the future it deserves.

At a glance Location: 9-11 MacDonald Street, Leongatha. Price: $350,000 - $375,000. Agent: First National Prom Country. Contact: Kaz Hughes 0417 516 998.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 35

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

“Koola-la Cottage” at Outtrim E

STABLISHED gardens surround this delightful meticulously restored homestead on 10 acres with fabulous views to the Strzelecki Ranges. This rural retreat has an engaging ambience, complemented by a low maintenance park-like setting, with

a unique combination of fully fenced pristine paddocks and natural bush. The home features 3.6m pressed metal ceilings, three generously proportioned bedrooms, stunning bathroom, open ﬁre place, bullnose verandahs, open deck, and split system heating and cooling. A large machinery shed, lock-up workshop, dam and abundant stock

water complete this sensational property. This is a rare opportunity to secure a unique lifestyle property. Expressions of interest close on Wednesday, December 15 at 4pm. The price range is $600,000$650,000. It is open for inspection each Saturday at 3pm.

At a glance Location: 160 Drysdales Road, Outtrim. EOI closes: Wednesday, December 15 at 4pm. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Inverloch. Contact: 5674 1111.

914 acres (approx) among OUTSTANDING West and Central Gippsland's finest grazing (2007 sand su properties with huge estimated 82rvey million tonn .4 es) alluvial sand deposits

SAND RESOURCE

ONLY 25KM FROM WARRAGUL

“Pepper Hill” 3130 OLD SALE ROAD WILLOW GROVE. 577acres (232.4ha) approx

Options are endless T

1.25km sealed road frontage Approx 3km laneways 3 bdrm cottage 1/2 km school bus Cattle and sheep yards Shearing shed Machinery shed 21 main paddocks (water to all) Holding paddocks Dams Tree reserves

HIS magniﬁcent home at Venus Bay was originally built as a bed and breakfast.

“Kepplestone” 337acres (136.4ha) approx Access from sealed road Sand pit Approx 3.5 km laneways Large covered hayshed Shed Yards 10 main paddocks plus holding yards (water to all) Dams Tree reserves If you develop land, dig sand, farm sheep, beef or dairy cattle, cut hay or train horses, this property may be for you

It has two levels, with the upstairs section featuring two large bedrooms, a separate lounge and bathroom and panoramic water views over Andersons Inlet. Downstairs boasts a huge kitchen/ living area with a separate lounge, three large bedrooms, storage room and laundry. The property is situated on a double

AUCTION

At a glance Location: 725 Lees Road,Venus Bay. Price: $385,000. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff,Venus Bay. Contact: 5663 7111.

On site Friday 17 December 2010 at 2pm. TERMS OF SALE 10% deposit, balance 60-90 days Agents remarks: versatile property gently rolling hills and mountain views, carries 350 breeders plus calves, vealers and replacements, ideal long term investment.

2021732

These properties are on the market and will be sold- DON'T MISS OUT! Contact: Keith Williams 0428 513 302 or Grant Williams 0412 513 470 or Keith Williams Estate Agency Pty Ltd 5174 7777. 37-39 Franklin Street, Traralgon

block, with a bore and a luxury inground solar heated pool. In the fully fenced grounds there is a custom-built aviary. This home exudes quality and is suited to large families or perhaps retired couples looking to earn income by returning the property to a bed and breakfast. Your options are endless, with ﬁve bedrooms, two bathrooms, three living areas, in-ground heated pool and panoramic water views.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 37

Forthcoming farmlet auction H

ERE’S your chance to purchase 71.1 acres at Mardan.

The property has a planning permit and is currently being used for beef grazing, but would also suit a local dairy farmer needing a turn out block. The land is undulating to a small area of hill. It is sheltered from southwest winds due to cypress plantations and gullies. The property is watered by six

dams, has electricity to the boundary and fronts a bitumen road. An ideal building site is available on the front of the block. It features excellent views over the rest of the property. The shops and businesses are only 15 minutes away and it is also central to the thriving small town of Mirboo North. Please contact selling agents SEJ for more information.

At a glance Location: 1298 Mardan Road, Mardan. Auction: Friday, December 17 at 1.30pm on site. Agent: SEJ, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 4033, Barry Redmond 0418 515 666 or Lyle Miller 0408 515 665.

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

King of the mountain N

EED a big home? Here it is.

Set high on the hill with stunning views of Wilsons Promontory and surrounds, this majestic double storey Port Welshpool home has an abundance of features. Beginning with half an acre of land, you also have a concrete roundabout driveway for easy access to the single garage with roller door. Enter the home on the ground level and you will find three bedrooms, a second lounge (or rumpus room), a bathroom and the laundry. Ascend the staircase to the second storey where the dining and family room and the lounge room have stunning water views. The main bedroom, with its own en suite and walk-in robe, as well as the study (or fifth bedroom) are also on this level. A gleaming kitchen with its white cupboards and blue bench tops, adds a splash of “nautical” to this beach home, and features polished floorboards, a wall oven, gas hotplates, dishwasher, corner pantry and a hideaway cupboard complete with a roller door. A sliding glass door opens onto an outdoor undercover deck area that also has a staircase leading down to the back yard. Retaining fences step down to the bottom of the backyard where a large Colorbond shed which has double sliding doors on the side and a roller door on the end, and rear lane access to the property will complete the picture. Just an easy five minute stroll to the beautiful waters of Port Welshpool, take your rod and teach the kids how to fish, or simply relax and enjoy the views.

At a glance Location: 15 Ross Street, Port Welshpool. Price: $570,000. Agent: Alex Scott and Staff, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 0922.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 39

MUSIC rang out from the Wonthaggi Secondary College last week as 150 students from all around South Gippsland gathered for the 25th annual music camp. For the ﬁrst time in the history of the South Gippsland Schools Music Program (SGSMP) camp, Wonthaggi was thrilled to host the event, usually held at the Leongatha Secondary College. Due to renovations, the camp was moved to another venue. Music camp co-ordinator Neil Gracey said students attended the camp from Wonthaggi, Mirboo North, Leongatha, South Gippsland and Korumburra secondary colleges and Mirboo North Primary School. The three day camp featured sessions involving three concert bands, two

big bands, jazz bands, rock band, guitar ensembles, vocals group and keyboard groups. A gala ﬁnale concert on Thursday night concluded another successful camp, the highlight being the massed item involving all 150 students and 40 music staff and Melbourne tutors. Mr Gracey said Melbourne composer Andrew Batterham was commissioned to write the massed musical item, Silver Sound to mark the milestone silver anniversary year of the SGSMP camp. “It was a big philharmonic, fanfare celebratory piece,” Mr Gracey said. Mr Gracey spoke highly of the students involved in the camp and said the music program in South Gippsland has produced many talented musicians who have gone on to pursue professional careers in music and the arts.

Jamming: Wonthaggi Secondary College’s Jett Dalmau, Brittney Taylor, James Ke, Harley Roetz; Mirboo North Secondary College’s Angus Sauppe, Chris Kennedy; and Korumburra Secondary College’s Jeremy Brammar and Josh McNabb.

Music celebration: well known music teacher Sue Arney returned to South Gippsland last week to celebrate the 25th annual music camp with co-ordinator Neil Gracey.

Together now: the concert band rehearses ahead of the gala ﬁnale.

Last hurrah: Wonthaggi Secondary College students Cameron Sanders and Mick Foon take part in their ﬁnal music camp concert. Photo courtesy of Foons Photography.

On track: Georgia Kay-Helmott of Wonthaggi Secondary College at the Gala concert. Photo courtesy of Foons Photography.

Guitar ensemble: South Gippsland music students and tutors Steph Gibbons-Sheehan, Jamie Ranbrandsma, Jack Chatﬁeld, Mikayla Young, Will Nash, Dan Arnott, Jason Gent, Tyler Smith, Sinead Allen, Adam Kennedy, Luke Tree, Luke May and Jake Kershaw enjoyed a guitar ensemble session.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 41

SOPHIE Jade Bowen was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on November 26 to Ashlee Rigby and Leigh Bowen of Wimbledon Heights. Sophie is a sister for Heath Michel Bowen, 21 months. LEO William Burke was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on November 21 to Stephanie and Richard Burke of Surf Beach. Leo is a brother for Zoe Olivia Burke, aged four.

KYLE James Cooper Jewel was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on November 25 to Melanie Parr and Russell Jewel of Cape Woolamai. Kyle is a new brother for Aliyah, ﬁve; Hayden, two; and Keira, one.

CLAIRE Winifred Glasgow was born on November 25 at Leongatha Memorial Hospital. She is another beautiful daughter for Bruce and Melissa of Bena and a sister for Emily Marie, aged four.

CASSIE Frances Gardner is the third child for Tony Gardner and Gabrielle Wold. Born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on November 26, Cassie is a sister to Curtis and Emma.

Church Times ARIES - March 21 - April 20

This is the week for bartering items, exchanging ideas and sharing commitments. Financial pressures ease after the weekend. You may be very social, but avoid excesses in the food and beverage department. TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

Your role is now an inspirational one - helping friends out of a rut and serving as a role model to youngsters. A chance of making extra cash could open up by the end of the week. GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

This is a fine week for shaping long range plans and applying established rules to an all new project. Aloof friends warm up somewhat, but don’t resort to pressure tactics in any relationship. CANCER - June 22 - July 22

This is a great time to tie up ﬁnancial loose ends and collect debts. A VIP wants to promote you - be available. A loved one is surprisingly outspoken on a delicate subject matter. LEO - July 23 - August 22

Communication is the week’s theme. Making requests are unusually simple and mail and email problems are solved at last. Reading between the lines is a must when dealing with matters legal or professional. VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

This is the week for commencing a diet or launching a large scale project. A loved one is unusually interested in your point of view, especially on matters of travel and children. LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

Advice rendered to others, works well for yourself - especially in the realms of romance and career. Festivities on the weekend could play havoc with your diet. SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

Romance is thriving, but only if disagreements are settled early on. Business ideas are bright and timing is right for submitting proposals. Older friends beneﬁt from your suggestions. SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

Reactions are not as sharp as you believe, so take added precautions where possible. This weekend ﬁnds you especially busy. Evenings are unusually productive. CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

Down to earth responsible people enter your social or professional circle. Creative ventures are fun for their own sake, but don’t seek a moneymaking angle, however. Your love for life is on the upswing. AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

An opportunity may open up for launching a long lasting business or romantic relationship, but don’t mix work with pleasure. Adaption proves your most valuable keyword. Travel offers funny surprises. PISCES - February 20 - March 20

The week sees you on local jaunts, especially those of an educational nature. This week has a nostalgic theme, perhaps promoted by a call from an old friend. A platonic friendship is enhanced. BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

Your bright sense of humour accompanies you wherever you go. You are admired for your warmth and wit, but your indecisiveness frustrates those who love you most. The emphasis is on romance and sentimentality. For writers, next year could be a bonanza year.

ANGLICAN: Wednesday, December 8: 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Sunday, December 12: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Exploring Worship; 10.30am Union Church, Tarwin Lower HC. Tuesday, December 14: 7pm St Andrew’s, Dumbalk / St David’s, Meeniyan Fellowship ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am. ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am. ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion. CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984. ASSEMBLIES OF GOD: Prom Coast Community Church Inc. - Foster Community House, Station Street, 10am: Sunday. Sunday School and Creche operates. Pastor Bill Watson 5686 2248. A.O.G. Inverloch - Cnr Bear and McIntosh Street, Inverloch. Sunday Service 10am; 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 9am and 10.45am. Tarwin Lower: 10.30am. Mirboo North: 9.30am. Meeniyan: 10am. Wonthaggi: Sunday 9.30am, Family Service, all welcome. Inverloch: Sunday 11am: Korumburra: Sunday, 9.30am: Rev. Pastors Gavin and Sue Sharp, 5655 1997. Arawata: 11.30am 1st & 3rd Sundays. Kongwak: 11.30am 4th Sunday. BAPTIST CHURCH KORUMBURRA: 39 Mine Rd, Korumburra. Service and Sunday School 10.30am. Pastor Ian Wilkinson. Phone 5658 1366. BAPTIST CHURCH WONTHAGGI: Cnr McBride & Broome Crescent, Wonthaggi. Morning Service & Children’s Activities, Sunday 10am. Weekly activities see www. wonbaptist.org.au, Pastor Geoff Pegler 5672 4769. MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Sunday, 10am: Meeniyan Youth Club Hall. COMBINED CHURCHES WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH: 4th Sunday each month at 7pm. SCOTS PIONEER CHURCH: Mardan South. Pleasant Sunday Afternoons on the last Sunday of each month at 2pm. See occasional ad in this paper for details. For enquiries phone 9853 6627. FISH CREEK UNION CHURCH: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 9am; 2nd & 4th Sundays, 7pm. Contacts: Fran Grimes 5683 2650, Sue Poletti 5663 6325.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8251

7. 8. 9. 10. 12. 15. 16. 18. 20. 22.

ACROSS Dish (9,3) Ghost (6) Enter (6) Dog (7) Gather (5) Creep (5) Pseudonym (3-4) Individual (6) Planet (6) Author (5,7)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 11. 13. 14. 17. 19. 21.

DOWN Padre (8) Box (4) Hide (7) Love (5) Sample (8) Carry (4) Composition (8) Hat (8) Material (7) Trap (5) Deserve (4) Roman garment (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8251 ACROSS 7. Going back to set an otter free therein (2,3,7). 8. Grit in the drink (6). 9. Talk one into becoming a predator (6). 10. Is the bait for it a water biscuit? (7). 12. A rest for the feet, say (5). 15. Going on what a shoe goes on (5). 16. Afterwards seeing a dead man (5,2). 18. A noisy or quiet stream (6). 20. Is to set off round about six, for a change (6). 22. Does it have the house keys? (7,5). DOWN 1. Breaks and the picture’s detached (5,3). 2. A cleaner must have water! (4). 3. Nonsense! It’s a nuisance going round to object! (7). 4. Won’t let one put notices up (5). 5. Flatten out and become less numerous (8). 6. Don’t change or do change the latter part of “3 Down” (4). 11. If they’re out of stock, they have no stock! (8). 13. Seeing and marking (8). 14. Hesitated by the water-colour (7). 17. Complain about and cry (5). 19. What computer users do to get a kick? (4). 21. Plant the pupil’s taken through (4).

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 43

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

By Tessa Hayward CAMP Day at Leongatha Primary School offered many activities for students. Kids in grades Prep, 1 and 2 participated in damper making, bush dancing, a scavenger hunt and made mini campﬁres. Julie Jackson and Ebony Collins

taught students bush dances. “We did the heel and toe, Macarena, nut bush and a few other dances,” Ms Jackson said. Some parents volunteered to help out with the activities. Grade 2 students had a sleepover at school that night, while Grade 1 students stayed until 7pm and Prep students went home at the

Cooking skills: Phoebe Davidson and Jemma Standﬁeld eat the damper they made.

normal time. For some students it was the ﬁrst time they have had a sleepover - a nerve-racking time for parents. However, having the sleepover at the school enabled students to be in a safe and friendly environment. The Grade 2 sleepover has been running every year for about 25 years.

Craft: Ben Puru, Joshua Wight and Sam Popple admire their mini campﬁres.

Dancing: Ben Puru and Brayden Greaves prepare to do the heel and toe.

Camp day: Louise Colwill, Nick Graham, Tahlia Ebery, Erin O’Neill and Kelsea Schnoor enjoy the activities.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 45

THE Australian Government has announced $43.5 million in funding to support the continuation of the Active After-school Communities in Gippsland until December 31, 2011. The funding announcement will enable more than 800 children to continue to receive free after school sport in 13 schools and after school care centres. The program aims to provide children with a positive introduction to sport and encourages them to join

a local club. Without the program, more than 90 per cent of participating children would not take part in physical education after-school. Principal at Korumburra Primary School, Bill Jeffs, said: “We are deﬁnitely in favour of continuing the AASC program. It has made a huge impact on the active lives of our students. “Parents of our students often praise the program as it gives their child the opportunity to participate in a sport they may not have been exposed to before.” Eighty-four per cent of parents

say their child feels more positive towards physical activity as a result of the program. Ninety per cent of the school and after school care providers agree children who are less physically active feel welcome participating in the program. Regional co-ordinator Mark Lindsay said: “There is an emphasis on inclusiveness and the program provides an opportunity for children to interact with other children of different ages, schools and cultural backgrounds.”

Authors at the Inlet

Keeping ﬁt: Korumburra Primary School students Tia Barnes and Katie Baido take part in the program.

SIXTY-FIVE people enjoyed a wonderful evening in the Cottage Restaurant at Inverloch’s Inlet Hotel recently. ‘Authors at the Inlet’, hosted by Friends of Inverloch Library (FOIL), featured two guest authors – Ann Cliff and Honey Brown. Ann talked about the differences between writing fiction and nonfiction. Shadows on the Moor is the recent addition to her Yorkshire regional saga series, written especially for libraries and available in large print and audio book format. Most of the group did not know they were interested in beekeeping, but Ann fascinated them with the topic by talking about her latest non-fiction work, released this year, The Bee Book. It’s about beekeeping, harvesting honey, beeswax, candles and other mysterious bee business. Honey was inspirational, speaking candidly about losing all her savings in the Pyramid Building Society collapse and about the farm accident that left her in a wheelchair. She talked about balancing family life with the spontaneous, creative urge to write and the origin of her unique name. She discussed the

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star 30 years ago, December 9, 1980 LEONGATHA had its move to secure the new tourist information centre thwarted at the last minute at the annual meeting of the Gippsland Tourist Authority at Morwell on Thursday night. **** INVERLOCH Primary School is cultivating a generation of green thumbs. The students from Prep to Grade 6 have been participating in an environmental study program which was introduced at the school this year. 10 years ago, December 5, 2000 XAVIER Davis’ ﬁrst cricketing century, at any level, was a big one. Playing for Imperials against

MDU in A Grade, Xavier cracked the double ton, with 144 of the runs in boundaries. **** A NUMBER of South Gippsland dairy farmers have been contacted recently by an overseas ﬁrm calling on them to invest in an upcoming share ﬂoat. The offer comes at a time when farmers are beginning to receive their share of the $1.8 billion dairy restructure package. Five years ago, December 6, 2005 A CANCELLED power supply cut by South Gippsland electricity provider SP AusNet has cost the business community thousands of dollars in lost revenue. ****

MDU’s Paul ‘Podge’ LePage and Glen Alvie’s Noddy Ware both smashed up big tons in their respective A Grade games on the weekend. LePage cracked 111 while Ware notched up 176 not out. One year ago, December 8, 2009 THE STATE Government may be plotting to close the dilapidated Leongatha Memorial Hospital, two leading community groups fear. **** EVERY new baby is special – it’s just some are more special than others. Zac Sporle was born 10 weeks ago, despite his mother Bec having a rare condition that should have prevented her ever having a baby.

Building bridges Book worms: Honey Brown (left) and Ann Cliff with Friends of Inverloch Library president Helen Barallon. ease with which her debut novel Red Queen was accepted for publication in 2009 and writing her second novel The Good Daughter, released this year by Penguin. Having sold the mov-

ie rights to Red Queen, Honey also talked about how she’s enjoying the challenges of writing the screen play. Both authors were accompanied by their devoted husbands and

thoroughly enjoyed the evening, compered by the talented Jane Denton, who ensured an intimate and convivial atmosphere with some of her very amusing ‘ditties’.

Milpara Community House news Milpara Community House of 21 Shellcott’s Road, Korumburra thanks the community for their support over the last 12 months. Please note that the house will be closed from December 18 until February 1. The Centrelink agency will remain open during the holidays on a Tuesday from 10am to 2pm and Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 1pm. ****** CD and DVD Burning course to be held on Tuesday, December 14 from 1pm to 4pm. Learn how to write to a CD or DVD to back up ﬁles, copy information and photos. Bookings essential.

****** Do you enjoy walking but need motivation to stick at it? With all the reasons in the world not to exercise, now is your time to get ﬁtter, trimmer, healthier and more active. Walking is an easy and cheap form of exercise and walking with a group helps maintain motivation. Start walking right now by calling Julia Lomas at Gippsland Southern Health Service on 5667 5648. The Korumburra walking group is a partnership between Gippsland Southern Health Service and Milpara Community House. ****** Are you 50 or over? Would you

like to access the internet and keep in touch with family and friends? Milpara is proud to be able to provide an internet kiosk funded by the Australian Government for you to access. Please contact the co-ordinators on 5655 2524 for available times. ****** We require volunteers for the following; an enthusiastic person to facilitate our playgroup; a gardener to assist with maintaining our garden beds; and more computer volunteers to help seniors learn how to access the internet. If you are interested in any of these positions please contact Sandra or Belinda.

PLANS to bring the 12km Mirboo North-Boolarra rail trail into Baromi Park have begun. The current proposal is to bring the trail right up to the car park, meaning visitors will only need to jump on their bike, or start walking, and can proceed uninterrupted to Boolarra. Project manager Bill Storer said replac-

ing bridges burnt in the ﬁres 18 months ago was important. “We’re planning on making steel structures so they can last for a long time,” he said. “The park site used to be the old railway, so it has that historical link.” The bridge work is set to begin before Christmas, but the timing and cost for the rest of the project is still unknown.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

By Tessa Hayward TWO little things can stop a child from drowning this summer.

These little things are known as eyes.Korumburra water baby participants held water safety activities during their normal classes last week, at the Korumburra heated pool. Water Safety Week, part of the Play it Safe by the Water campaign,

was held from November 27 to December 5. The babies took part to boost their water skills as summer got underway. Kaye Tipping, water babies teacher, said the program was a great way to learn about water safety. “It is a great initiative and teaches parents how to keep their children safe,” she said. Among the tips parents learnt for keeping their children safe over sum-

mer were: • always watch them around water, never turn your back on them, a lifeguard is no substitute for parental supervision; and • always empty paddling pools immediately after use. “These tips are very important, every parent should read and learn from them,” Ms Tipping said. For more information visit the Play it Safe by the Water website www.watersafety.vic.gov.au

Big step: Sarah Jelbart catches her son Clancey as he jumps into the pool.

Help: Jenny Enbom rescues her daughter Maia. Spooky caves: entering the seaweed cave was Mark and Layla Cecil, Sarah and Clancey Jelbart, Jenny and Maia Enbom, Raelene and Maison Taylor, Melinda and Jaelah Milkin, and Caleb and Freya Berry.

Footy stars ride for Yooralla TWO former AFL greats will cycle through the region this Friday (December 10) to raise awareness of disability organisation, Yooralla. One-time Essendon Football Club captain Matthew Lloyd and Collingwood coach Tony Shaw will ride from Traralgon to Inverloch. They will speak at a lunch at the RACV resort as part of the 15-day Yooralla Great Vic Trek. The event will raise funds for Yooralla, which supports more than 30,000 Victorians with a disability and their families. Locals are welcome to attend the lunch by booking on 5671 1007. At 5pm, Leongatha Golf Club will host On deck: Yooralla Leongatha’s catering team at Ballarat: Emily twilight golf with the football stars, which is Ardley, Tamara Chumbley, Brodie James, Dale Olierook, Mitch- also open to the public. Cost is $30 for nine holes and a barbecue. ell Price, a Sovereign Hill soldier and front, Brendan Allen.

Musicians honoured TWO Kongwak musicians have been awarded for their dedication to helping people with a disability. Dennis Kadmon and Anne-Marie Becu received Yooralla’s Sister Faith Distinguished Service Award in recognition of their outstanding service to Yooralla. The professional musicians have shared their talent and musical skills with

people with disability for seven years. Young people at Yooralla’s FirstBase Leongatha are enthusiastic about their weekly classes in composing, presenting and recording music. The classes and public performances enable individuals to build conﬁdence, skill and participation in community life. Dennis and Anne-Marie received their awards at the Yooralla AGM.

Thanks a million: passionate volunteers Dennis Kadmon and Anne-Marie Becu.

Seaweed attack: Maia Enbom swims through the seaweed with her noodle.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 47

Kitchen warms hearts THE Korumburra Community Kitchen had a big year in 2010, cooking up a storm and creating some warm friendships.

Held once a month at the St Paul’s Anglican Church Hall, the community kitchen is all about getting out, having a good time and meeting new people. The group’s last soiree for the year was a Christmas lunch for ECG students. The Reverend Jenny Ramadge, who has been instrumental in organising the kitchen, said the highlight was “Doris Hastie’s famous Christmas tarts”. “They were great,” she said, remembering them fondly. Jenny said the group had been a big success this year, and was expected to grow next year. “We’ve been gathering one day a week since May. Next year we’re running it from the second Tuesday of the month, beginning in February. That’s open to anyone who wants to

come and it’s $5,” she said. “We cook and then we eat and then we take home, in freezable containers, anything that’s left over. The idea is to embrace the social event of cooking and eating with someone else, especially for people who are on their own. We’re very particular about nutrition too. We always have nutritious food. “We like for people to have something to take home to eat during the week.” The group had been buoyed by a $2500 grant from Anglicare Victoria for a new stove. “It started off small, but we’re building. It’s good. We’ve had different people coming and going, but about eight at most of the meetings,” Jenny said. The group is always looking for new members. Jenny can be contacted on Yum, yum: Doris Christmas lunch. 5655 1007.

Bocce bound for ‘Burra THE Italian sport of bocce is making a big comeback in Korumburra, with the establishment of a dedicated court in the town.

enjoys

Warm meals, warm friends: Liegh Leighton, Doris Hastie, Glenyce Cherret, S’iad, Glen, Jeanette, Nina and Ronnie enjoying the Christmas lunch cooked at the Community Kitchen.

South Gippsland Shire councillors Bob Newton, who put funds towards the project, along with now mayor Cr Warren Raabe, believes the court is a “great idea”. “It’s not just for elderly people, but young people who want to take on the sport. It’s a great initiative,” he said. The court’s construction, which is occurring near the football oval on Richards Street, has been championed by the Korumburra Community Development and Action Inc, and will be used by athletes training for the Special Olympics. Bocce is traditionally played on natural soil or asphalt courts 27 metres in length and 2.5 to 4 metres wide. Bocce balls can be made of metal or various kinds of plastic. Unlike lawn bowls, bocce balls are spherical and have no inbuilt bias.

KCDA Inc thanks Maxine Davies, who has agreed to coach bocce to Special Olympic players, and for her involvement with the Koringal Ladies Service Club. That club made it all possible through their generous donation. “Special Olympics were founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968 with the vision that, through proper instruction and support, people with an intellectual disability can learn, enjoy and grow,” Maxine said. “This global not-for-proﬁt organisation is now the world’s largest grassroots sports organisation, supporting millions of athletes and their families.” It offers opportunities in sport ranging from a local level to competing in Australia or overseas. The Special Olympics Committee meets at Morwell, and they are looking for more volunteers. Should anybody be interested they may contact the president on 0407 948 879. If they want to play bocce for Special Olympics, phone Maxine on 5655 1206 or Shirley on 5657 3350.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Carving the pool: Dee donned her Speedos as Stephanie Rice.

Country star: Jake presented as Keith Urban.

Artistic ﬂair: Skye was in full painter’s garb as Frederick McCubbin.

Aussie tunes: Aaron looked the part as Slim Dusty.

Idols ‘visit’ school FAMOUS Australians visited Loch Primary School recently. Students came dressed as famous Australians, as part of their study, entitled ‘Images of Greatness’.

Boys and girls selected a famous Australian to use as a model for their project. Having chosen their famous Australian, the students researched them and presented a poster, a Powerpoint presentation, props and costumes to ‘become’ that person for presentation night.

All students performed beautifully, reﬂecting the hard work they had put in this term. Some of those in attendance on the night included Steve Irwin, Governor-General Quentin Brice, R.M Williams, Keith Urban, Slim Dusty and Captain Cook.

Centrelink in town HOURS of operation for the Leongatha Centrelink Agent increased by half an hour per weekday earlier this year. The Centrelink Agent has been operating from 9.30am to 1pm each weekday, not including public holidays. This has been to keep up with the increased demand for the services the agency delivers. “People still like to deal with a real person,” said Bev Ellwood, Centrelink co-ordinator for the bureau. “They can access many Centrelink services on the net, but many prefer to deal with the agency.” On a visit to the agency last week, Centrelink rural services ofﬁcer, Bob

Hutton, noted some Centrelink customers were not aware that there is a Centrelink agent in Leongatha. “These services have been established in the local community to ensure that people can access Centrelink easily and close to home,” Mr Hutton said. “Although Centrelink agents do not have system access, they can provide information on payments and services, and help with forms and claim lodgement. “Agent staff can even sight and photocopy Centrelink Proof of Identity documents, which can save a lot of travel time. “Centrelink agents can also refer you to Centrelink staff (including

specialists) if you require further support. “Self-help facilities are available to assist you with conducting your Centrelink business including a telephone, internet enabled computer, printer, photocopier and facsimile.” The branch is located in the Memorial Hall complex in Michael Place, up the stairs opposite the rear part of the post ofﬁce. For more information, customers can call Centrelink on their usual 13 number or visit www.centrelink.gov. au The agency is located at the South Gippsland Citizens Advice Bureau in the Leongatha Memorial Hall complex.

Are your kids water ready? “The responsibility for installation applies to all homeowners with a pool or spa, regardless of whether they have children living there or not.” South Gippsland Shire Council ofﬁcers are currently conducting an audit of swimming pools and spas to ensure property owners are complying with their obligations. “The most common problems we are ﬁnding include gates that are not self closing and self latching,” Mr Patterson said. “The other common danger is items, such as outdoor furniture or barbecues in the vicinity, that children can use as footholds to climb over the pool fence. Never

underestimate the tenacity of a determined child. It is no great challenge for them to pull a plastic chair over to the fence.” If you have a pool or spa, make sure barriers restrict toddlers from entering the pool area. When children are in the pool area, make sure there is constant adult supervision – not just the occasional glance. It the adult leaves the pool area, even for a short time, they should always take the child with them. Once suitable compliant safety barriers have been installed, it is imperative that owners ensure the barriers are maintained so they continue to work properly.

Party crackdown

Playground soon

KIDS love the water.

Close bond: Joshua and Kirsten Davey on their wedding day.

Parliamentary wedding KIRSTEN Joanne Mee and Joshua Paul Davey were married in the Senate Courtyard of Old Parliament House in Parkes, Canberra on October 22. Kirsten is the daughter of Yvonne and Mervyn Mee of Leongatha, and granddaughter of George Mee of Leongatha South. She attended school in Leongatha and Mirboo North. Joshua is the son of Chris and Christine Davey of Primrose Park, Ariah Park, New South Wales. Kirsten wore an ivory polka dotted tulle dress designed by Australian de-

signer Karen Willis Holmes, with a bouquet of white David Austin roses. Kirsten and Joshua’s wedding rings and Kirsten’s engagement ring were made by jeweller Philip Lacy of Lacy’s Meeniyan. Their day was a perfect warm spring Canberra day and their ceremony was followed by a stylish yet classic reception at the Lobby Restaurant. Joshua and Kirsten enjoyed a luxurious honeymoon in Phuket, Thailand and will now reside in their new apartment in Bruce, Canberra, ACT, where they both work for the Australian Government.

But the question is, during summer, are they water ready? And more importantly, are you? Young children can fall into a pool or spa and drown very quickly, so properly maintained safety barriers around pools are a vital measure to help secure the safety not only of the homeowners’ toddlers, but also those of friends and neighbours. “It is law that protective safety barriers are installed to restrict access to swimming pools and spas with a depth of greater than 300mm on private residential properties in Victoria,” Matthew Patterson, councils municipal building surveyor, said.

NEW Year’s Eve hotspot Cowes will be heavily focused on during the summer celebrations. Police in Cowes and surrounding areas will be supplemented in order to control large crowds. “There’ll be signiﬁcant police presence. The council has decided to not have ﬁreworks at Cowes on New Year’s Eve,” said Inspector Glenn Weir. “We hope to provide an environment that means families can come and enjoy themselves and have a good time.” Police will also be on site at Tidal River over the holiday period, supplementing the staff in South Gippsland to provide services at places like Sandy Point.

NYORA’S playground will be replaced next year. The new playground is expected to be installed by the end of March according to a South Gippsland Shire Council spokesperson. Bollards to put around the village green to protect it from hoons are also expected, according to the Nyora and District Development Association.

There is no point having a fence if children can climb it or if the gate has been left propped open. Ensure the barrier area is maintained and landscaped so that children can’t climb tree branches, pot plants, boxes, play equipment, clothes lines or any other nearby objects to gain access to the swimming pool/ spa. Consider inspecting adjoining properties to ensure there are no potential hazards or objects that may allow young children access to the swimming pool/spa. Regularly inspect the area to conﬁrm that the above precautions are still in force, latches are working and climbable objects have not accumulated again. In summer, don’t risk increased ﬁnes or worse still, a tragedy at your own home. Make sure you and your pool are water ready and that your backyard is a safe and enjoyable place. A free brochure outlining the new swimming pool and spa regulations can be downloaded from www. southgippsland.vic.gov.au or obtained from council reception at 9 Smith Street, Leongatha. For further information please call the Building Department on 5662 9326.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 49

Yuletide, country style By Tessa Hayward CHRISTMAS in Fish Creek is celebrated like any other South Gippsland town. Trees are put up and decorated, houses are trimmed with Christmas lights, shops have sales on to entice Christmas shoppers and there is a sense of festivity in the air. The Fish Creek kindergarten has been participating in Christmas activities in the lead up to the big day. “We have been making Christmas decorations; angels, balls and stars,” director, Kim Smith, said. The kids enjoyed decorating their Christmas tree last Wednesday,

December 1. They were also getting very excited about Santa visiting the night before Christmas. Fish Creek Primary School students will be having a Christmas lunch on Tuesday, December 14 before summer school holidays begin. The Fish Creek hotel has installed two ﬁsh with Santa hats to keep in the spirit of Christmas and in line with the name of the town. The ﬁsh with Santa hats are hard to miss as they are right above the bottle shop. A few shops around town have put Christmas decorations up to make the community feel more festive.

Kinder fun: Baxter, Ada, Maggie and Rebekah start decorating the Christmas tree.

Festive season: Fish Creek kindergarten students are counting down the days until Christmas. Left: Santa hats: The Fish Creek pub gets into the Christmas spirit. Below: Christmas spirit: Nina, Jasmine and Elisha reach for the balls they made to hang on the tree.

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Carols singers sought AN ANNUAL Christmas extravaganza is just around the corner in Leongatha.

Preparations for the Carols in the Drome event on Saturday, December 18 are well underway. The musical showcase will feature junior and senior choirs from Leongatha Primary School, and

a choir from South Coast Christian College, alongside an adult choir of local singers. Local talent, Leongatha Primary music teacher Jenny Monk, Dave Durrant, Charles Pearce and Elly Poletti will captivate the crowd with superb vocal renditions of treasured Christmas songs.

Music M i for f the th evening i will again be provided by the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band, a dedicated group of volunteers passionate about bringing festive spirit to the region. Singers are urgently needed for the adult choir. Willing people are invited to attend rehearsal at the Leongatha Courthouse tomorrow (Wednesday) at 7.30pm. On Wednesday, December 15, there will be a full rehearsal with all choirs and artists at the Uniting Church Hall at 7pm. All singers welcome. People can support the carols this year by giving their Community Rewards points from IGA supermarkets to the Carols in the Drome. Arrange this at an IGA store. The concert will be held at the Leongatha Velodrome at the recreation reserve.

In sync: adult choir members Betty Knight, Joy Brown, Sue Cashin, Denis Simmons and Rowel Simmons rehearse last week.

Fine food, setting, sounds

MUSICIANS will be performing in the vineyard, as a popular event returns to Koonwarra’s Lyre Bird Hill Winery.

A range of performers will be playing at the winery’s pizza and music afternoons, giving visitors the chance to have a relaxing time while enjoying the range of ﬁne wines and dining on wood-ﬁred pizzas. Peter Hall of Inverloch and friends, including his daughter Bridget and lead guitarist John Cataldo, kicked off the season with a great selection of songs, including some originals. “The vineyard setting makes for the perfect venue where people can sit back with a glass of wine and a pizza while listening to the music,” Peter said. “This is the fourth year I have been playing here and I always look forward to it. You can’t get a nicer crowd to perform in front of while you look out across the vineyard.” For more information, contact Lyre Bird Hill Winery on 5664 3204.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 51

Nurse a living legend Shed ‘flies’, then lands FOSTER nurse Heather Scott took home the top prize at the inaugural PapScreen Victoria Nurse Pap Test Provider Awards in Melbourne.

Heather, who has been a Pap test nurse for over 21 years, beat 450 Victorian Pap test nurses to the crown, which was awarded for the greatest number of years service to the Victorian cervical screening program and consistently high Pap test quality. She works at the Foster Medical Clinic. “PapScreen Victoria congratulates Heather on her outstanding win, which demonstrates both her skill as a nurse and her commitment to women’s health over the past two decades,” said Lea Rawlings, PapScreen Victoria manager. “Heather is a perfect example of how local women – and older and rural women in particular – are beneﬁting from the cervical screening services offered by a growing band of Pap test nurses in Victoria. “Many women tell us that they prefer to see a female provider for health issues such as Pap tests. Because nurses tend to be female, they

AN HISTORIC building became airborne in Inverloch last Wednesday and not because it was a rocket shed.

Dedicated professional: Heather Scott. have become an integral part of the National Cervical Screening Program. This is particularly the case in more rural areas, where there can be a shortage of female GPs.” PapScreen Victoria say the number of nurses in Victoria who have undertaken training allowing them to take Pap tests has grown dramatically, jumping from 185 in 2000 to almost 450 in November 2010.

“Although the majority of Pap test nurses currently work in general practice, we’d certainly like to see even more nurses working in this setting, and indeed across all types of practice,” Ms Rawlings said. Division 1 Registered Nurses interested in becoming a Pap test provider can ﬁnd more information at papscreen.org.au.

Watch out! Snakes are here THE snake season is here. The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) has reminded Victorians that the warmer weather has prompted the reptiles to become more active. Senior scientist (threatened fauna) from DSE’s Arthur Rylah Institute, Nick Clemann, said Victorians are urged to take care but not be scared if they see snakes basking in the sun or moving after emerging from their inactive period over winter. “Snakes respond to the warming weather and lengthening days, so it is more likely that residents will begin to encounter them at this time of year,” Mr Clemann said. “The snakes you are most likely to see near residential areas in southern Victoria are all venom-

ous, so it’s important to remind people about how to respond if they appear.” People often panic when they see a snake but there are some simple things to keep in mind: • undertake or update ﬁrst aid training; • ensure your ﬁrst aid kit contains several compression bandages; • stay well away from any snake that you see and ensure children and pets also keep their distance; • keep calm and try to move away from the snake; • never touch or attempt to capture snakes; • snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, so don’t try to harm them. Bites can occur if people try to kill snakes;

• call 136 186 if you need further advice, or wish to have a trained snake-catcher remove a snake from your property; and • apply ﬁrst aid and seek medical help immediately if anyone is bitten. Mr Clemann said to reduce the chance of snakes coming onto your property, and to make snakes more visible if they are in the area, make sure you: • clean up around the house. Snakes are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, sheets of metal, or building materials; • cut your lawns regularly; and • try to reduce the number of pests such as rats and mice which provide food for snakes.

Mayor’s Message Cr Peter Paul

Lots to celebrate, as guard changes

WELCOME to my last Mayor’s Message. This has been a transformational year for council, with ﬁrm foundations laid for the coming years.

Our community will beneﬁt from the many projects that are underway or about to get underway. Working with other councils as part of the Sea Change Taskforce has been a great experience for me. Most councils in coastal areas experience similar challenges of a ﬂuctuating population, an ageing population and the affects of climate change. It was also fantastic to be part of the Gippsland Local Government Network and see the completion of the Gippsland Regional Plan. Being part of both these groups gives us good leverage to apply for grants and other funding opportunities for

important projects in our community. In March this year I learnt that Wonthaggi really knows how to throw a party and was thrilled to be involved in the Wonthaggi Centenary Celebrations. I don’t think Graham Street has ever been that busy, with the hundreds of people participating in the parade being watched by thousands lining the street. A project close to my own heart is the Phillip Isalnd Children’s Hub and ﬁnding out that we had secured funding for this project was a deﬁnite highlight of the year. I look forward to seeing the project come to fruition and the doors opening in 2012 for children on the Island. The Bass Coast Education Precinct is coming along quickly and I look forward to seeing the precinct open and providing education and training opportunities to people

across our shire. This really will be an asset for our local youth. I am pleased to see in the last week of my mayoral year, the clearing of the ﬁsheries and wildlife site in Chapel Street, Cowes has been completed. I’m also excited about the very recent purchase of land in Church Street for future council projects. I would like to congratulate Ken Smith on his re-election, as well as his new role as speaker of the house. Council looks

forward to a establishing a good working relationship with the new government. It has been a pleasure to work with so many groups and individuals who want to make Bass Coast a better place. I would like to thank everyone for their contribution this year and wish all Bass Coast residents a merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. Cr Peter Paul, Mayor Bass Coast Shire Council

The 108-year-old building hung from beneath a crane as it was moved into place behind the replica of the vessel, the Ripple on The Esplanade. Combined, the two attractions create a maritime heritage precinct for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike. The shed has been painstakingly restored by the volunteers of the Inverloch Historical Society, to the tune of $50,000 and is the only known shed clad in original galvanised corrugated iron in Victoria. Project manager Ivan Hipworth is overwhelmed the project is nearing completion. “It’s good to see it sitting there. We can relax a little bit,” he said. “The society is tickled pink. They’re ecstatic to have the shed renovated and relocated.” While the shed has a fascinating past, its relocation was a story in itself. The effort cost about $9000, with a low leader truck and crane hired, and SP AusNet staff required to lift powerlines enroute. The shed was moved from its base in the industrial estate down Cashin Street, into Toorak Road, then Abbott Street and along Ramsay Boulevard to The Esplanade.

The existing walkway will be extended to take visitors by the front door of the shed. Displays will be erected with information about the shed’s role in Inverloch’s past. All work will be finalised by March. Retaining its original cladding, the shed features a new roof and restored Baltic pine floorboards, with timber sourced from a 100-year-old house in North Fitzroy. During its days of operation, the shed was located opposite the existing Inlet Hotel, where the waterline then was. The shed housed rockets and ropes used during marine rescues. A rocket with a light line would be fired over a vessel that had ran aground and a harness known as Breeches Buoy was used to bring the mariners ashore safely. The shed was only used once during its history and even then, one of the rescuers had to be rescued himself by the crew of the damaged vessel, after his neck became entangled in a rope. Bass Coast Shire Council handed the shed over to the society in 2007 for renovation. The project was funded by the Federal Government, $25,000; Bass Coast Shire Council, $5000; Cr Ross Smith, $2000; Inverloch Rotary, $500; Inverloch Lions, $100; and Inverloch Historical Society, $18,000.

Up high: the rocket shed is hoisted into position.

Head start on career By Tessa Hayward SASHA Argento always wanted to be a hairdresser and when she recieved an apprenticeship at Catherine’s Hair Techniques in Meeniyan her dreams came true. She began the Australian School-Based Apprenticeship on Friday, November 12 and works 13 hours a week and still attends school. “I’m really enjoying it,

I love hair,” she said. This type of apprenticeship is a great option for students as they can get credits towards vocational qualification while completing their senior secondary certificate. Sasha chose to commence a school-based apprenticeship, as she will obtain a mix of academic, vocational and technical education, training and paid employment. Her studies, training and work all fit together. Catherine Waldron, owner of Catherine’s Hair Techniques said she really

needed an apprentice and this seemed like the perfect choice. “It is working out really well,” she said. Undertaking a schoolbased apprenticeship will give Sasha valuable employment skills and handson industry experience that will give her an edge on other school leavers when that time comes. For more information on school-based apprenticeships, students should contact their school careers advisor or www.australia.gov.au/australianapprenticeships

Free mulch for you BASS Coast Council is offering free mulch. You’ll need a trailer and a cover so that the load doesn’t escape. The offer runs between Saturday December 4 and Monday December 6, as well as Saturday December 11 to Monday December 13, at the Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Rhyll transfer stations. Trucks can collect the mulch too, but fees apply. The council cannot guarantee that the mulch is weed and litter free.

Great experience: VECCI ﬁeld consultant Cindy Stares, Catherine Hair Technology owner Catherine Waldron and Mary MacKillop student Sasha Argento.

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

• VLE LEONGATHA

Prices remain unchanged as buyers present THERE was a slight reduction in the number of cattle penned overall, but more bullocks and fewer cows were penned. All of the regular buyers were present, and the

mostly good quality offering saw trade cattle have a better selection of weights, suiting local processors. Demand was again strong and prices were unchanged for a small percentage of the yarding, but 1c to 5c/kg dearer for others. Approximately 70 vealers were penned, with

their quality being good, but weights were quite mixed. Prices ranged from 159c to 212c/kg. Some very good quality B muscle steers sold at 200c, with the small selection of others between 167c and 190c/kg. Of the 200 young cattle penned 165 were heifers. The better quality trade

VLE LEONGATHA KOONWARRA

Sale Draw December 8 1. David Phelan 2. Elders 3. Landmark 4. SEJ 5. Rodwells 6. Alex Scott

SALE DATES LEONGATHA Wednesday, December 8 Prime Sale - 8.30am Thursday, December 16 Store Sale - 10am Friday, December 17 Lamb Sale - 11am

PAKENHAM

Thursday, December 9 Store Sale - 10am Monday, December 13 Prime Sale - 8am Tuesday, December 14 Export Sale - 8.30am

** Over the Christmas Break ** LEONGATHA Thursday, December 16 Last Cattle Sale for 2010 (Store) Friday, December 17 Last Sheep Sale for 2010 Wednesday, December 29 - Landmark Special Sale Wednesday, January 5, 2011 - First Cattle Sale for 2011 (Prime) Thursday, January 6, 2011 - First Sheep Sale for 2011 Truck wash will be open over the Christmas Break

PAKENHAM Tuesday, December 21 Last sale for 2010 (Export) Thursday, January 6 First sale for 2011 (Store) Truck wash and yards closed from Wednesday, December 22 to Wednesday, January 5, 2011.

weight heifers made between 170c and 198c, with older and heavy heifers from 145c to 182c/kg. Collectively, 425 bullocks and steers were penned, most of which were in excellent condition. Strong demand saw prices average 4c higher, with prime C3 and C4 bullocks making between 169c and 184.2c/ kg. Grown steers made to 186c/kg. Manufacturing bullocks sold well with most prices being 159c to 174c/kg.

Reduced numbers kept demand very strong from all of the usual buyers. Of the 340 penned, better quality cows sold to the least off any rise. These made from 145c to 165c/ kg. Larger frame, but lean cows made between 127c and 156c/kg. The best competition was for lighter weight, and very lean one score cows, which made from 116c to 132c, and were a full 5c/kg dearer. The carcass weight price average rose to 300c/kg.

Wednesday, December 1 BULLOCKS 29 N.G. Smith, San Remo 14 Mrs G. Shandley, Nerrena 14 A. & T. Derham, Maryvale 11 Mrs M. Steenhold, Woolamai 9 P. & C. Henwood, French Island 14 Goldengully Farms, Drifﬁeld

614kg 705kg 594kg 627kg 684kg 665kg

184.1 183.0 182.2 181.6 181.2 181.2

$1130 $1290 $1082 $1139 $1239 $1204

STEERS 1 G.L. & M.L. Tuckett, Leongatha 1 J.E. & W. Hancock, Jeetho 1 A. Mollica, Nyora 1 B.C. Kruger, Foster 1 W.J. & N.M. Paterson, Jeetho West 1 P. & I.L. Tiziani, Doomburrim COWS 1 B.S. Cantwell Lstk, Toora 2 I.M. & G.M. Robinson, Leongatha 5 T.E. & A.M. Shandley, Koorooman 1 K. Trotman, Buffalo 1 E. Ruby, Anderson 6 G.W. & K.L. Peddle, Bruthen HEIFERS 1 A. Mollica, Nyora 1 A.R. Hopkins, Morwell 1 J. Vuillerman, Doomburrim 3 A. Maruzza, Dumbalk 10 G. & J. Schepers, Won Wron 1 P. & I.L. Tiziani, Doomburrim BULLS 1 K.J. & M.L. Fisher, Tarwin Lower 1 P. & I.L. Tiziani, Doomburrim 1 Craigendale P/L, Dudley South 1 B. & D. Simpson, Moorabool 1 B.S. Cantwell Lstk, Toora 1 A.C. & L.A. Mitchell, Leongatha

365kg 320kg 405kg 365kg 400kg 410kg

212.0 212.0 210.0 208.6 205.0 204.2

$774 $678 $850 $761 $820 $837

695kg 573kg 625kg 675kg 785kg 494kg

165.0 $1146 158.6 $908 158.6 $991 158.0 $1066 158.0 $1240 157.2 $776

340kg 310kg 390kg 378kg 325kg 330kg

215.0 201.6 200.0 200.0 198.6 198.6

$731 $625 $780 $756 $644 $655

1040kg 880kg 970kg 1085kg 875kg 1025kg

168.6 168.0 168.0 168.0 166.0 165.6

$1753 $1478 $1629 $1822 $1452 $1697

Scholar inspires young ’uns GRAEME Nicoll has spent 2010 in dairies from Sweden to New Zealand and just about everywhere else between. The Fish Creek farmer was the recipient of a Nufﬁeld Scholarship, which saw him spend 16 weeks exploring milking operations around the globe. A fascinated audience of 35 turned out to the Fish Creek hotel last Wednesday night to hear about Graeme’s experiences in countries like Uruguay, Brazil, France, the US and England. The occasion was the Young Dairy Development Program end-of-year celebration. YDDP is supported by GippsDairy to help promote industry information and social events for young farmers. The young (and some not-so-young) farmers listened as Graeme shared his international insights into better milk production. He spoke of opportunities to cross local herds with different breeds of cattle, especially the Montbeliarde breed which is popular in France. He also talked about improving pasture management, which overseas tests have shown can improve production by up to 40 per cent. Warrick Wilson, from YDDP major sponsor Rural Finance Corporation, was the warm-up-act for Graeme. Warrick spoke about grants that are available to young farmers. His talk sparked a spirited discussion on the world of farm ﬁnance.

Pulling power: former Foster resident George Crocombe (left), now living in Hamilton, made the trip especially to see Graeme Nicoll’s presentation.

Talking point: Denise Jones (left) from Tarwin and Dollar’s Amber McCraken get ready for Graeme Nicoll’s presentation.

Good night out: Frank Templeton from Graham’s Seeds catches up with Leongatha’s Gerard Murphy at the YDDP evening at the Fishy Pub.

Pre-dinner drinks: from left, Daniel Fulkerton, Keith Straw and Paul Hannigan, all from Fish Creek, enjoy a chat before the YDDP end-of-year event.

Getting together: Ange Williams from Fish Creek shares a convivial drink with Mardan’s Tanya Privitera at the YDDP end-of-year bash.

Willing audience: Steve Dunn from Graham’s Seeds, Phil Isaacs from Middle Tarwin and Claire Geri, also of Middle Tarwin, were interested in Graeme Nicoll’s overseas adventure.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 53

Soils key to farming success TWENTY people took advantage of a free workshop at Koonwarra to learn about managing soils for productive and sustainable agriculture.

Run by the South Gippsland Landcare Network as part of the Healthy Soils, Sustainable Farms project, the workshop was held at Jill and Michael Vella’s deer farm. Presenters included consultant John Mulvany, who is well known within the Gippsland dairy industry, and Fiona Baker, from DPI Ellinbank, who specialises in smaller scale agriculture. Participants - who ranged from established farmers to new landholders - appreciated the opportunity to receive straightforward and impartial information about soil management. “A lot of soils courses are being promoted by people who have products to sell,” Ms Vella, the network’s new landholder project ofﬁcer, said. “The intention of this workshop was purely educational.”

The workshop covered the basics of soil management. “Essentially, we wanted to give participants enough information that they can understand and interpret soil tests, and identify issues that need to be addressed,” Ms Vella said. “Whether they choose conventional or alternative management strategies to deal with problems like acidity, salinity or low fertility is completely up to them.” The workshop was just one of a series of events being delivered throughout Gippsland by the Landcare network as part of the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s Healthy Soils, Sustainable Farms project. Funded by the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country, Sustainable Practices Program, the project aims to build knowledge about soil health so that landholders can make more informed management decisions. Over the next year, several ﬁeld days and workshops focusing on soil acidiﬁcation and building soil car-

bon within the context of productive farming systems, will be held in the region. Project co-ordinator, Tony Gardner, who attended the workshop, said the program will bring a range of people together to facilitate discussion about soil management. Landholders will also have the opportunity to apply for grants to trial different management actions. Grants may include funding for landholders to obtain agronomic advice and a soil test subsidy. There will also be funding for trials and demonstrations over several years, so landholders will be able to follow the outcomes of different soil management strategies. “There’s a huge diversity of opinion out, there,” he says. “We want people to be able to make up their own minds about what strategies to adopt, based on good evidence.” For more information about upcoming events, contact Jill Vella at the South Gippsland Landcare Network on 5662 5759. www.sgln.org. au

Inspiring ideas: consultant John Mulvany leads the discussion.

Think green to make money - Landcare PROFITABLE farming and caring for the environment can go hand in hand.

Across Gippsland, there are many fine examples of productive, profitable farm enterprises that manage big areas of native vegetation for stock and pasture shelter as well as for biodiversity, soil and water conservation. Managing a farm for environmental sustainability is managing a farm for long term economic sustainability. It increases your capital and strengthens your production system. Production benefits provided by native vegetation, according to the Living Systems Project, Department of Sustainability and Environment, include: • 26 per cent more milk production (based on a cow that is sheltered compared to one that can’t access shade on a day over 27OC); • 17- 30 per cent more production (improved pasture growth, and milk and meat production) in sheltered pastures compared with un-sheltered paddocks; and • reduced chemical use due to natural predation of insects by birds, bats and predatory insects that live in native vegetation. Most farmers and rural landholders have a stewardship ethic, that is, they view

themselves as stewards of the land and as managers of its assets for the benefit of future generations. The economic impact of land degradation costs Australia around $1.5 billion per year in lost production. Landholders are also very concerned about the environmental impact of land degradation. Declining soil health and pasture production has been linked to the lack of nearby healthy native vegetation. So the concept of ‘giving up’ pasture for trees does not need to be negative. Indeed, many benefits can be accrued to offset the loss in pasture area. Landcare is supporting rural landholders to manage their land both for the environment and for farm production. Landcare and its partners are co-ordinating activities to support landholders in the Western Port and Powlett River Catchments. These programs are all aimed at providing and sharing information, improving skills and providing some funding towards the cost of projects that generate environmental benefits beyond the farm boundary. Funding support is directed towards improving water quality through revegetation, protecting

remnant native vegetation and trialling new soil health practices. Beef farmer Barry Sibly fenced off and revegetated his streams and dams after completing the Landcare farm planning course. “This has certainly helped as the stock can no longer walk through the creek; there is a lot less erosion. It certainly looks better. I love the look of it,” he said. “I realised that water quality for the cattle is very important. I wanted them to be drinking purer water, so they are not drinking urine and manure.” A series of courses and farm discussion groups will be supported across the catchments in 2011 including: • Healthy Soils courses for primary and non-primary producers – exploring soil formation, structure, biology and chemical components, beneﬁts of carbon

and interpreting soil tests; • Farm Plan 21 – whole farm planning and mapping; setting up to farm your land according to its capacity whilst establishing and protecting soils, water and native vegetation. Over six sessions; • eFarmer – a web based farm mapping tool that can generate computer maps of your farm, including paddocks, waterways, infrastructure, native vegetation and land degradation areas requiring special management. Over six sessions; • nutrient budgeting – create a nutrient budget for your farm that accounts for all nutrient inputs, outputs and losses. Over two days; and • several farm discussion groups separately focussed on the following issues: soils, nutrients and pastures, animal health and marketing; improving the quality of native vegetation and habitat; carbon and

business accounting, reducing greenhouse emissions and farm costs; improving soil health and building soil carbon for dairy, beef, sheep and vegetable growers. Feedback from previous courses has been overwhelmingly positive: • “excellent introduction to sustainable farming” ; • “It was great to get information to make you think about other possibilities”; and •“Great networking,

very informative, good access to resources.” Soil health is a rapidly growing area of interest and is also a focus of the Landcare program in 2011. Landholders will be supported to develop soil health plans for their farms by either completing one of the courses on offer or by having access to a suitable consultant. “The Landcare program is a healthy partnership between community and various government agencies who work collaboratively

to support landholders”, said Moragh Mackay, project co-ordinator. “We have the three Landcare networks involved: Bass Coast, operating across Bass Valley, French and Phillip Islands; South Gippsland operating in the Loch, Poowong, Mt Lyall and Triholm areas; and Westernport Catchment operating across the Koo Wee Rup Swamp, Drouin, Labertouche and Upper Pakenham districts.

PAGE 54 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

AN UPDATE FROM AQUASURE

As we head into Christmas, there are now more than 3300 people at work right across the Victorian Desalination Project. Despite a brief interruption to progress recently, our challenge remains the same â&#x20AC;&#x201C; water by December 2011. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really pleased to announce that Brendan Donohue joined the design and construction team recently as the new Executive Project Director for Thiess DegrĂŠmont. I have known Brendan for a long time and have worked with him before, and know that he will be a great addition to the team. He brings almost 40 years of experience in construction to the project, having managed major projects and building operations for top-tier construction companies, and I hope you will join me in welcoming him to the project. Brendan joins the project at an exciting time, with a number of major milestones achieved during 2010, including: t $PNQMFUJPO PG UIF LN VOEFSHSPVOE inlet tunnel;

www.aquasure.com.au

t $PNQMFUJPO PG BMNPTU N PG UIF 1.4km underground outlet tunnel; t $PNQMFUJPO PG UXP JOUBLF TUSVDUVSFT PO the seabed; t 4JHOJm DBOU QSPHSFTT PO BMM CVJMEJOHT on the desalination plant site; t $PNQMFUJPO PG IBMG PG UIF NBTTJWF structural steel frame and roof system for the reverse osmosis building; t 4UBSU PG JOTUBMMBUJPO PG UIF NFDIBOJDBM components of the facility; t $PNQMFUJPO PG QJQF MBZJOH PO LN PG UIF LN USBOTGFS QJQFMJOF BOE t $PNQMFUJPO PG VOEFSHSPVOE QPXFS cable installation on more than LN PG UIF LN VOEFSHSPVOE power supply. These achievements are a testament to the long hours worked and the dedication shown by the people involved in the project, including our many valued employees, sub-contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders. .PSF UIBO m WF NJMMJPO NBO IPVST IBWF been worked to date, with a strong focus maintained on safety and compliance with the strict environmental performance requirements of the project.

We also continue to take our role in the community seriously and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sincerely grateful to the Bass Coast community for the way in which they have welcomed our people to the region. During 2010, our information centres continued to be popular sources of information about the project, and both "RVB4VSF BOE 5IJFTT %FHSÂšNPOU FOUFSFE into a range of community partnerships that we trust will provide long term CFOFm UT UP UIF DPNNVOJUZ The project will close for the holiday season, with only a few staff working between Christmas and New Year. The Community Information Centre in Wonthaggi will be open on selected days and resume normal opening hours from Tuesday, 4 January. Details about opening hours are listed on our website. On behalf of everyone involved with the Victorian Desalination Project, our very best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous new year.

Chris Herbert $&0 "RVB4VSF

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 55

Classifieds

Sell it in the "Star"

PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350

public notices

public notices FACE PAINTING Kid’s parties and all occasions. Contact Susan 0400-199983. Leongatha area.

STREET PREACHER’S WIN OVER ADELAIDE CITY COUNCIL Forbes Morrison, 22, arrested by police several times for preaching in Rundle Mall took the Council to court and saw the council’s ban on street preaching overturned - a win for freedom of speech. Hear this courageous young man at

Health Professional Rooms To Rent At

INVERLOCH CHIROPRACTIC’S Newly appointed clinic in A’Beckett St Enquiries to Matt 5674 1919

Leongatha Presbyterian Church December 12, 10am Forbes Morrison

Enquiries 0409 236 981

WANTED!

South Gippsland residents are invited to attend a

Community Forum on the new

SOUTH GIPPSLAND WASTE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY 2011 - 2021 Council Chambers, Michael Place, Leongatha Thursday, December 9 - 7pm South Gippsland Shire Council is creating a new Waste Management Strategy that will identify action steps to provide a high level of waste management services to residents and businesses, while achieving environmental and financial sustainability. To ensure a focused, relevant and successful strategy, Council is seeking feedback on key areas. If you would like to have input into the Strategy, please attend this forum and/or complete the online survey on www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au Enquiries: 5662 9351

CHIROPRACTOR NORMAN G. VRADENBURG “NON-FORCE PRACTITIONER” 28 Reilly Street, INVERLOCH HOURS - Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday by appointment Phone and fax 5674 3666 South Gippsland Chiropratic Services & Adjunctive Therapies P/L

BOAT LICENCE COURSE Jetski endorsement included

INVERLOCH Saturday, Dec 18 1pm - 5.15pm Bookings essential Phone SEAL Diving Services 5174 3434 Approved MSV course Australian Boating College. Provider No. 3399

message of hope FAITHFULNESS springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. Psalm 85:11

public notices

thanks JIM HEATH would like to thank Kath, family and friends for a wonderful 90 surprise party.

personal $ 70

personal day time special

Community Garage Sale Weekend Furniture, Antiques, Tools, Collectables, CDs, Books, Toys, Garden, Electrical, Household Over 30 different sales

December 11-12

9702 4744

7 rimfire dr. hallam

business opportunities NEWSAGENCY FOR SALE

LIONS MARKET SUNDAY 12TH

FOSTER $510,000 + SAV

BENNISON ADULT RIDING CLUB INC. & CORNER INLET PONY CLUB INC.

Modern well presented shop, loyal customers, solid turnover, friendly township, would ideally suit husband/ wife team.

Invites members, past members, life members and the general public to join us AT OUR GROUNDS (O’Sullivans Road, Bennison) On Saturday, December 11, 2010

PHONE COLIN TIDBALL (03) 9888-6488

TO CELEBRATE THE OPENING OF OUR NEW FACILITIES The Ceremony will commence at 11.30am FOLLOWED BY A BBQ LUNCH

penthouse make us your 1st stop

public notices

LOCH VILLAGE

hallam

pca 4609b

public notices

situations vacant

DAIRY TECHNICIAN A long established family business is seeking 2 Dairy Technicians for immediate start in South Gippsland. Positions are full time. Applicants must be able to work independently and within a team, be highly motivated, have good verbal and written skills, and hold a current forklift and Victorian driver’s licence. Knowledge of dairies, water pumps, computers and some experience in welding would be useful but not essential. Applications to: The Manager 62 Old Waratah Road Fish Creek 3959 Closing date: January 12

situations vacant

Berries You Pick IN LEONGATHA - 5 Sawyer Street

Saturday and Sunday OPEN ALL DAY Monday to Friday by appointment 5662 4801 FRESH IN DECEMBER FROZEN ALL YEAR ROUND

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

FULL TIME SALES PERSON OUTDOOR & GARDEN CENTRE This full-time position requires an enthusiastic person to be involved in the daily running of our outdoor & garden centre. The successful candidate will demonstrate sound customer service skills, and a willingness to learn. A keen interest in gardening and horticulture would be an advantage. Please forward written application and resumé to: The Manager, 13 Roughead Street, Leongatha 3953 or email to: sales@awsmith.com.au Applications close December 10, 2010 Successful applicants only will be notiﬁed

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

situations vacant

BOOKKEEPER / ACCOUNTANT 0.6 EFT Williams, Edwards & Findlay are one of the largest locally owned Certified Practising Accountancy businesses in South Gippsland. Williams, Edwards & Findlay have offices situated in Korumburra and Wonthaggi that service a clientele base throughout Victoria and interstate. A part time bookkeeper position (3 days per week) has become available in our Korumburra Office. The position will involve business activity statement preparation, general bookkeeping, taxation and administration duties. Previous work experience within public practice, currently studying at Tafe or University, experience with Banklink and Handisoft programs is desirable but not essential.

Send your written applications to: Paula Findlay, C/- Williams, Edwards & Findlay 19 Commercial Street, Korumburra 3950 or email paulaf@wef.com.au Applications close Wednesday, December 22 2010 www.wef.com.au

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF NURSING – GRADE 5

situations vacant

CASUAL WORKERS Wanted for food prep and customer service from December 26 until January 30. Phone Hilary 0424 884 181

PART TIME DAY & NIGHT Must be available weekends Phone Gary 5662 4241

PROJECT OFFICER (Full Time/Part Time) Beveridge Williams is a large company of consulting surveyors, engineers and planners. Due to ongoing growth our Wonthaggi office requires a Project Officer to assist with Planning and Project Management duties. Working in a friendly team environment, your role will include: • Liaising with clients and authorities in a friendly and professional manner; • Assisting clients with general updates on job progress; • Preparation of correspondence and planning reports; • Assisting our Town Planner and Project Managers with the day to day administration on ongoing developments. Whilst not essential, computer drafting skills would be considered advantageous. The right candidate will receive ongoing training and support as well as have the opportunity to work on many interesting land development projects around the Wonthaggi and Phillip Island areas. The candidate for this job will be well presented, proactive with a helpful nature and have a good eye for detail. Whilst this is a full time position, the opportunity to job share is available for the right candidate. Applications should be forwarded to: Beveridge Williams & Co Pty Ltd PO Box 129 WONTHAGGI VIC 3995 wonthaggi@bevewill.com.au Applications close December 17, 2010

Maintenance Worker Full Time (Handyperson Advanced) GSHS seeks applications for the above position. The position will involve handyman and tradesmen type works both inside and outside the Health Service buildings on all health service sites including hospitals at Korumburra and Leongatha. The successful applicant will be self motivated, hold a current police clearance, a current Victorian Driver’s Licence and be able to work independently and liaise with other staff and local trade contractors to complete routine maintenance tasks and minor new works. The successful candidate will have excellent customer service skills. The operation of the computerised maintenance management system is essential to the position. A building related trade or experience would be desirable and flexibility in the work to be undertaken is required by the successful applicant. The successful candidate will be required to participate in the On-call after-hours roster. Ongoing professional development is provided to all staff at GSHS. Salary packaging is available to permanent staff members. An application kit and position description is available by calling the Administrative Assistant on 5667 5643 or through our website at www.gha.net.au/gshs Please apply in writing by December 24, 2010 to: Mark Withers Maintenance Manager Gippsland Southern Health Service Private Bag 13 LEONGATHA 3953

Allied Health Opportunities in Gippsland

Part time – 24hrs per week Commencing March 2011 An exciting opportunity exists for a senior nurse to work closely with the Nursing Executive and Senior Managers at Gippsland Southern Health Service. To succeed in this position you will ideally possess the following skills:• Senior nursing experience in a wide range of disciplines including residential care. • The ability to promote change throughout an organisation. • Provide support to the Directors of Nursing and the Executive team. • Excellent people skills with the ability to communicate at all levels. • A commitment to maintaining and delivering high quality patient care. • Clinical leadership and education skills. • An understanding of the Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) and the associated standards. The role has a strong residential care and quality focus. The successful applicant will be required to undertake additional project work from a wide range of disciplines as delegated by Nursing Executive.

Fantastic opportunities exist for enthusiastic and highly motivated allied health workers to join the energetic, fun and friendly team in DEECD Gippsland. An easy drive east of Melbourne, Gippsland is blessed with natural beauty from its iconic beaches, snow fields, and rainforests to the famous Lakes area, inland waterways, wilderness and cultural treasures – what a great place to work! There are 5 Allied Health positions and 1 Visiting Teacher position for the Hearing Impaired. The Benefits of these positions include: • Negotiable start date and working hours • Easy commute to Melbourne • Personal laptop and mobile phone provided • Access to work vehicles • Innovative professional development • Access to current assessment materials and resources

Speech Pathologist AHG2 – 2 positions Salary range: $47,390-$64,962 Ongoing – full time Position 1 Location: West Gippsland Network Position 2 Location: Latrobe Valley Network Position number: DEECD/GIP234

Psychologist AHG3 Salary range: $66,235-$75,151 Ongoing – full time Location: Latrobe Valley Network Position number: DEECD/GIP235

NURSE UNIT MANAGER – REGISTERED NURSE DIV 1

Student Support Services Network Coordinator AHG4.2

F u l l T i m e / 1 E F T – A c u t e Wa r d – Leongatha Campus As a manager/leader you will be dynamic, have a proven record in change management and have excellent communication, organisational and team building skills. Applicants should have a well-developed nursing knowledge and a clinical skills base to manage the range of services provided or be willing to expand/ develop their knowledge and skills in these areas if required. The successful applicant will be responsible for the provision of high quality patient care through effective leadership, management of staff and developing cooperative professional relationships. The unit provides a wide range of services including Medical, Surgical, Emergency, Chemotherapy and Midwifery.

Salary range: $84,446-$92,467 Full time – fixed term: 1/01/2011 – 1/12/2012 Location: Latrobe Valley Network Position number: DEECD/GIP236

Social Worker Stream Leader AHG4 Salary range: $76,424-$92,467 Full time - fixed term: 27/01/2011 to 12/04/2012 Location: South Gippsland Network Position number: DEECD/GIP237 For further information on these Allied Health positions descriptions and selection criteria visit www.careers.vic.gov.au and refer to the position numbers as listed.

Visiting Teacher for the Hearing Impaired Salary range: Teacher’s salary range Ongoing-time fraction: negotiable Location: West and/or South Gippsland Network Position number: 745511 Mandatory qualifications: teaching qualifications & a recognised special education qualification in the area of hearing impairment. For further information on this Visiting Teacher position description and selection criteria visit http://www.education.vic.gov.au/hrweb/ careers/vacs/advacssch.htm and refer to position number 745511. ZO011716

For inquiries and application packages please contact Neil Langstaff, Director of Nursing on 5667 5507 or visit our website at www.gshs.com.au. Applicants are required to provide a current Police Record Check. Applications close Friday, 17th December 2010 and completed application packages should be addressed to:Mr Neil Langstaff Director of Nursing Gippsland Southern Health Service Private Bag 13 LEONGATHA 3953

situations vacant

TAXI DRIVERS WANTED

WILLIAMS, EDWARDS & FINDLAY Certified Practising Accountants

situations vacant

If any of these opportunities appeal to you, you may wish to discuss it further with Ms Nicola Stuart on (03) 5127 0400. Closing date for applications is 9 January 2011.

ZO041237

INTER-PROFESSIONAL CLINICAL PROGRAM FACILITATORS (2 EFT) An exciting opportunity exists for suitably qualified and experienced health professionals to join a supportive, multi-disciplinary team for 12 months to develop the South Coast Inter-professional Clinical Supervision (SCICS) Program. This project has been funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing under the “Increased Clinical Training Capacity in 2010” initiative up to December 2011. The key outcomes for this project are to: 1. Increase clinical placements available for medical, nursing and allied health students 2. Increase inter-professional learning and practice opportunities 3. Create a Sub-regional Inter-professional Clinical Supervision Program 4. Achieve sustainability of the Program An equivalent of 2 EFT Inter-professional Clinical Program Facilitators will be recruitedto work with the project’s Clinical Supervision Working Party, and other clinical educators/supervisors across the South Gippsland sub-region.The Clinical Placement Facilitators will work across the acute and primary care services in Foster, Leongatha, Korumburra and Wonthaggi. The positions may be full or part-time. While Gippsland Southern Health Service (GSHS) will employ the positions, the base location of the positions can be negotiated with the successful applicants (within the health services of South Coast Sub-region). GSHS offers a comprehensive orientation program on commencement of employment. All staff have access to excellent staff mentoring, education and support programs. Salary Packaging is available to all permanent staff. Successful applicants are required to provide a current satisfactory police record check and working with children check prior to commencing employment. A current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence is essential to ensure your application is progressed. For more information about this opportunity, please contact: Elise Sullivan – Project Manager, South Coast Interprofessional Clinical Supervision Projecton 0408 468 496 or via email: Elise.sullivan@dpar.com.au The detailed position description and an application kit may be downloaded from our website at www.gshs.com.au. Applications should be submitted by December 10, 2010 to: Janet Arrott-Watt HR Manager Gippsland Southern Health Service Private Bag 13 LEONGATHA 3953 Janet.arrott-watt@gshs.com.au

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 57

situations vacant

Jobs that make a difference

Strategic Project Manager Community Care Children, Youth and Families, Gippsland Initial Work Location: Morwell Ongoing / Full Time $93,740 - $125,443 p.a. (+Superannuation)

JOINER/CABINET MAKER APPRENTICESHIP

Reporting to the Regional Manager Community Care, this role entails providing leadership and senior management responsibility for Community Care Strategic Projects. The role involves leading service planning and reform projects and developing business cases and proposals to translate policy directions into service initiatives. With highly developed communication skills and a strong understanding of government processes, you will work with multiple internal and external stakeholders. Experience in managing and developing people, projects and services within a complex environment are essential attributes of this position.

Applications are invited for an apprenticeship in our Wonthaggi Factory. We offer a high level of skilled training in the production of kitchens, staircases and all associated products. Candidates who are interested in entering this industry and have completed Year 11 need apply. Apply in writing attention to: Peter Sheerin Capeview Building Products PO Box 115, Wonthaggi 3995 Applications close on December 23, 2010

If this opportunity appeals to you please view the position description via the web site below. For further information contact Mariela Diaz on (03) 5136 2448. Please quote position no DHS/GIP/28184. Closing date for applications is Sunday, 19 December 2010.

Assistant Child Protection Manager Child Protection, Gippsland Initial Work Location: Morwell Ongoing / Full Time $93,740 - $125,444 p.a. (+Superannuation) The Assistant Child Protection Manager is an exciting new position in Gippsland Region that will be responsible for a number of regional operational Child Protection units, grouped to maximise the opportunities for structural synergy and connectedness, to best achieve the aspirations of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005. Reporting to the Regional Manager Child Protection, you will develop, lead and implement reforms and strategies to enhance service delivery, manage service demand and build workforce capabilities. You will work in close partnership with external services delivering child and family services to realise the intentions of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005.

Police Checks form part of the Department of Human Services recruitment process. Aboriginal Australians are encouraged to apply. For information and support contact 1300 092 406 or aboriginal.employment@dhs.vic.gov.au To apply online and view the job description, visit www.dhs.vic.gov.au/careers For other Victorian Government opportunities, please visit www.careers.vic.gov.au

Fast Art 124511_v2 ZO021910

If this opportunity appeals to you please view the position description via the web site below. For further information contact Andrew Waller on (03) 5136 2510. Please quote position no DHS/GIP/275751. Closing date for applications is Sunday, 19 December 2010.

Insurance Sales Support Ofﬁcer Leongatha, VIC Elders Insurance Leongatha have a great opportunity for an experienced Sales Support Ofﬁcer, with the ability to work within a team, responsible for insurance administrative duties and providing exceptional customer service. For more information, and to apply, please visit elders.com.au/jn21907 or contact David Mathieson via email at david.mathieson@elders.com.au Applications close 24th December 2010

Community Announcement SP AusNet Electricity Network Reliability Targets for 2011

Trainers & Assessors Required

SP AusNet is Victoria’s largest energy delivery business. We are committed to continuously improving reliability of supply to people within our network and seek to outperform reliability targets. The past year, we have been working hard to improve the reliability and safety of the electricity network. We have been undertaking asset renewal works to prevent asset failures, preventative maintenance programs to reduce the number of interruptions caused by animals and trees and increasing the use of new technologies through the use of automated and remote controlled equipment across the network to minimise interruptions to customers.

In accordance with the requirements of the Australian Energy Regulator and as part of our commitment to customer service we’re aiming for the following targets in 2011: Supplied by Urban Feeder

Supplied by Short Rural Feeder

Supplied by Long Rural Feeder

On average, the number of minutes a customer will experience loss of supply due to unplanned interruptions per year (eg. lightning, storm, fauna) (USAIDI)

102 minutes

209 minutes

257 minutes

On average, the number of unplanned interruptions a customer will experience per year (longer than one minute) (USAIFI)

1.45

2.63

3.32

On average, the duration of an unplanned customer interruption (UCAIDI)

70 minutes

79 minutes

77 minutes

On average, the number of momentary interruptions (less than one minute) (MAIFI)

2.51

5.41

8.92

Measure for 2011

Are you looking for a career change? Education Centre Gippsland is looking for trainers and Assessors to deliver to our students at a Certificate or Diploma Level in the following areas: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Information Technology Youth Work Disability Workers Aged care & Home and Community Care Hairdressing Beauty Therapy Children’s Services Retail Training and Education Education Support Business Administration First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis Responsible Service of Alcohol CGEA

Due to the growth in the industry there are several positions available. Delivery of courses will take place in Pakenham, and throughout the South Gippsland and Bass Coast Shires. Positions will commence early 2011.

SP AusNet aims to maintain a high level of reliability. In the event that we do not meet reliability thresholds established by the Australian Energy Regulator, some customers (approximately 23,000 in 2010) may be entitled to Guaranteed Service Level payments under clause 6.3 of the Electricity Distribution Code. If you would like to know more please visit www.sp-ausnet.com.au or contact our customer service centre on 1300 360 795. NCASP/569LVE

Certificate IV in Training and Assessment is desirable, but if you do not hold this qualification Education Centre Gippsland can help you obtain it. For a position Description see our website www.ecg.vic.edu.au or contact Gary Sherrard on 5662 6700 or email garys@ecg.vic.edu.au Applications close on December 16

www.ecg.vic.edu.au

Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College South Gippsland

School Counsellor/Social Worker/ Psychologist Part-time (at least 0.5 FTE) Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College is seeking to appoint a suitably qualified counsellor to support the College Community. The successful applicant will also work closely with the Deputy Principal Pastoral Care and Daily Organisation to develop and implement preventative programs in the College. A commitment to the Catholic ethos of the College is essential. Applications, including the names of three referees (one a parish priest if possible), should be submitted to: The Principal Mr Michael Delaney Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College Private Bag 7 Leongatha VIC 3953 Or by email to principal@mackillopleongatha.catholic.edu.au Applications should be submitted as soon as possible but no later than Thursday, December 16, 2010

Maintenance & Service Contractor Simonds Homes, Australia’s largest builder is at the forefront of the residential construction industry, evidenced by our numerous awards won for outstanding design and performance offers an opportunity for energetic individual with relevant experience to join our team. We are seeking contractors to work in the Traralgon, Sale & Bairnsdale surrounding areas. As a contractor you will have your own tools, suitable vehicle and the ability to order materials as may be required. The successful applicants should possess: • Experience in all areas of residential building • Previous trade skills • Commitment to customer service • Current drivers licence • Maintenance experience is essential You will be required to undertake Maintenance repair work whilst liaising with clients. Work will be completed professionally, promptly and efficiently. We expect our service personnel to present themselves professionally when working at clients’ residence. Continuous work at good rates and prompt payment is available. For further information please contact Colin on 0419 444 815.

PAGE 58 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

situations vacant

CHEF REQUIRED An opportunity has arisen for an ambitious, career minded Qualified Chef in our busy bistro and function centre. To be considered for the role you should possess the following attributes: • An intense passion for your trade. • Experience in high volume service. Interest in contemporary dining trends. • A genuine interest in people. • A desire to advance your career. The successful applicant will benefit from a very attractive remuneration package. In the first instance, please phone 0400 604 580 for further information. Applications may be forwarded to: Chef Position PO Box 505, Morwell 3840 (Fax 5134 6042)

Literacy, Numeracy and Communication Skills Teachers ECG is Seeking Strong Experienced Trainers to work as part of its Foundation Studies Team

PRACTICE SUPERVISOR Full Time WONTHAGGI We are currently seeking an experienced and motivated Practice Supervisor to manage and oversee the day to day running of our busy newly extended Practice in Wonthaggi. To be successful you will be able to demonstrate your contribution to an evolving professional workplace. You will need to possess: • Management experience in a General Practice environment • Ability to provide leadership and manage a diverse team of professionals • Ability to promote and expand the Practice’s profile • Knowledge of MBS schedule, bulk billing services and electronic claiming • Excellent computer skills, experience in Practix and Medical Director would be an advantage • Excellent presentation, verbal and written communication skills • A commitment to high quality patient service and positive team environment • Excellent time management and multi-tasking skills. Please email resumé to: Trish Wilson at twilson@maacg.com.au

ACCOUNTING CLERK TRAINEESHIP A full time vacancy exists at our Leongatha office for the above position. The duties will include Filing, Clerical Work, Computer Input, Back up Reception and General Administration duties. After a period of initial in-house training the successful applicant will commence a Certificate IV in Business Administration. Further advancement opportunities will become available with experience. The successful applicant will be a well presented person with good computer skills and the ability to cope with a busy work environment. Applicants who have recently completed their VCE are encouraged to apply. Please apply in own handwriting with resumé. Applications close on Friday, December 10, 2010 and should be addressed to: Accounting Clerk MORRISON JEFFERIS & ASSOCIATES Certified Practising Accountants 16 McCartin Street LEONGATHA VIC 3953

agistment LEONGATHA

FULL TIME PART TIME Must be available weekends Please apply instore or call Emma 0406 455 125

AGISTMENT available - 60 acres Mardan. Ph: 0408641324.

We want to employ you: • If you want to make a difference to the lives of young people. • Are creative, caring and empathetic. • Have an eye for detail and are highly accountable. • Are able to demonstrate high quality teaching skills in a flexible environment. We require you to be qualified in Certificate IV in TAA or Certificate IV in TAE or be willing to complete the required credential, and to have teaching or experience in working with youth or in developing literacy and numeracy skills in adults. You must be able to work as part of ECG’s team. For a position Description see our website www.ecg.vic.edu.au or contact our office on 5622 6000 Written application addressed to Jan Scott

tenders

For Tender Office & Amenities Cleaning Burra Foods invites tenders from experienced and competent cleaning services to clean at their Korumburra Factory on a daily basis. Cleaners will be required to perform a range of different cleaning tasks. For further information please contact Helen Arestia on 5658 0021. Tenders close on December 17, 2010 and should be submitted to: Burra Foods Pty Ltd PO Box 379 Korumburra 3950 or to helena@burrafoods.com.au

Most photos that appear in The Star can be purchased by calling 5662 2294. for sale

for lease EX DAIRY FARM - 55 acres, $85 per week. Ph: 0403-405220.

for sale

VACUUM CLEANER Repairs DUST BAGS

for rent VENUS BAY - house, short stroll to beach and shops, sleeps 7. Permanent rental also available. Contact: 0408-320001.

Sales

FREE

QUOTES

WONTHAGGI SEWING CENTRE 167 Graham Street, Wonthaggi (opp. Ritchies IGA)

5672 3127

FOR SALE NEAR NEW PORTABLE CLASSROOM 4 module - 2 room complex Approx: 14m x 10m Inc: 2 x wall mounted a/c’s, plumbing ﬁttings, decking and ramp Excellent condition $55,000 inc. GST (ONO) CONTACT: Kristin Richardson Ruralco Property 10-12 Hughes Street Leongatha Vic 3953 Ph: 5662 4388 Mob: 0427 092 983

for sale

ANTIQUE Queen Anne bed. Antique white cane baby cot. Ph: 5664-7321. CARDS, Bibles, CDs, gifts available, New Beginnings Christian Bookshop, 38 Bair St, Leongatha. 56620999. CARAVAN - Galaxy poptop, 2003. Single axle, single beds, awning, heaps of cupboards and extras, 7’ x 18’. Excellent condition $19,750. 0417-673581. FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408-980711, A/H 5662-5175 GAZEBO, unused, in original pack, solid construction, $190. Ph: 5662-2718 or 0448178452. GO-KART (adult) Rotax, $3,500.

AX9

Go-Kart (junior) Swiss Wutless Midget Rookie, (80cc) Komer engine. Both in good condition, $2,000. Ring 0417-128148 for more information. HAY - small square bales, $6 each. Fully shedded, suitable for horses, never been wet. Quality guaranteed. No weeds. Mardan - 5664-1320, 0428999691. HAY - 300 approx. small square bales, freestanding $3 each or baled $6 each. This season’s crop, excellent pasture, no weeds. Fish Creek. Ph: 0414-284784. HEN HOUSES, large or small, made locally. Ring Dennis 5664-2443. JAYCO Pop-Top, 15’, full front bunks, rear double bed, can sleep 5, new tyres, 900kg. Very clean, tidy, $7,500. 5657-3298. KITTENS South Gippsland Animal Aid has lots of gorgeous abandoned kittens available for adoption. A low adoption fee of $80 includes up to $280 of vet fees (inc. desexing, 1st vac, microchipping, worming and fleaing). Please help save a beautiful life. Ph: 5662-2725 or 5681-2290. MERCURY OUTBOARD 15hp, $1,000. Ph: 0428871376. MOBILE COOL ROOM, 2.23m long, 1.14m wide, 1.61m height, Venus Bay, $3,000. Ph: 0400-052171, 5663-7503. POOL TABLE, slate, 9x4’6”, balls and cues, $1,000 ONO. 86 Mitsubishi Canter cab chassis, 2 ton, eng. no. 496533, $5,000 ONO. 0408-177008. POOL TABLE, foldable, 4x6ft, good cond, inc. balls and cues, $150. Ph: 56641204. RAMS - Poll Dorset and Border Leicester. Registered, brucellosis accredited. $300 each. Ewes and lambs available. Can deliver. 0428-356376 or 5686-2699. SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each. Free delivery for pack lots. Phone Joe 0417-530662. TIMBER - kiln dried blackwood, clear pine, silver wattle. Most sizes for furniture and craft. Also builder’s graded structural pine. Phone 5681-2261.

garage sales

WASHING MACHINE, 1.5kg auto Samsung, exc. cond. $260. Dimplex portable reverse cycle air conditioner, used three times, owner put into aged care. $450. Acoustic electric guitar with amplifier, microphone, mic stand with boom, all leads and guitar tuner, $260. Ph: 5668-1241.

free

COMBINED GARAGE SALE Household goods, baby clothes, toys and accessories

22 Blair Crescent LEONGATHA Saturday 11th 8am start No early birds

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

livestock

Huge Garage Sale 0800 Saturday 11th 32 Bellingham St LEONGATHA

BULLS FOR HIRE OR SALE

GARAGE SALE

MOST BEEF BREEDS AVAILABLE

No early birds Everything has to go NO REASONABLE OFFER

FRIESIAN BULLS 2-3 yr old Never worked 0447 331 762 POULTRY and Cage Bird Auction at the Traralgon Showgrounds Poultry Pavillion on Sunday, December 12 starting at 10.30am. Wide variety of poultry, young hens, many breeds, fertile eggs. Special breeders clearance of top quality Wyandotte bantams. Open for sellers from 8am. Ph: 5197 7270 or 0438 325 918.

used machinery HAYMOWER - 462 New Holland, good condition, $4,200. Phone Ross 56636292.

used vehicles

FREE CAR REMOVAL Will pay up to $300 for complete car Buyers of scrap metal All machinery Bins provided

Bass Coast Metal Recyclers 5672 2946 0417 556 593 KIA PREGIO 2004, one tonne van, 160,000km, near new tyres, new alt. 6 months ago. Reg: UWI255 June 11, $8,300. Ph: 0401730203. HOLDEN V8 Utility. See Page 9 of this week’s paper.

REFUSED

GARAGE SALE The “STAR” can help you promote your event with our

$25 GARAGE SALE KIT KIT INCLUDES 5cm x S/C advert (valued at $31.90) • 2 x A4 Garage Sale Signs • Marker Pen • Garage Sale Tips (dos and don’ts) • Sheet of Price Stickers • Star Carry Bag

Total package valued at $39 ADVERTISE by calling 5662 5555 or emailing classiﬁeds@thestar.com.au or call in to 36 McCartin Street LEONGATHA to pick up your kit when you place your advertisement

GARAGE SALE w Saturday 11/12, 4 Horn St. Leongatha, 8am-12pm. Bikes, flute, guitar and more. (No early callers) A

public notices

Gatha Rock End of Year Dinner & Dance DOWNSTAIRS AT SERAFINO’S

wanted to buy FURNITURE: Parker, Noblett, Tessa, Chiswell, Moran, or any quality brand name used furniture. Phone Wendy on 0409-234482. JERSEY heifer Please phone 398822.

30 Young Street LEONGATHA 8.30am December 11

calves. 0447-

MILK VATS - all sizes. Must be VG condition. Ph: 5941-6111, F: 5941-5888.

Thursday, December 9 6.30pm All past learners welcome to join us (Bookings to Serafino’s 5662 3390)

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 59

Classifieds PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350

marriage celebrant

Jenny Milkins All areas - 5672 3123 jenny_milkins@hotmail.com

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

MERLENE STRATTON Leongatha 5662 2574

births DOWEL (Renye) - Congrats Jason and Bec on the safe arrival of Clay William, 9lb 13oz, born 4.12.10. Another precious grandson for Nanny and Pa, and cousin for Jemason and Noah to play with.

bereavement thanks VERBOON - Thank to everyone who sent flowers, cards, made phone calls and showed their support on the passing of Maurice. It was very much appreciated. From Elaine and families.

Email your adverts to The Star ads@thestar.com.au

deaths APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Dear Geoffrey, you are the dearest part of my life. No one will ever replace that hole in my life little mate. Good night - Love for eternity. Love Dad. APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Much loved grandson of Dianne and Lindsay (dec.) Appleyard. Dearly loved son of Walter and family. Loving nephew of Ainslee, Heather, Helen, Yvonne, Andrew, Mark and families. My beautiful young man. When you gave me your big broad smile, your whole face would light up with the love you had for me and the big hug when your long arms went around me. You can now tell Grandpa about your two beautiful little girls, which you wished he could have seen. I will never be able to fill the huge gap you have left in my heart, my darling. Goodbye my lovely Geoff. I love you. Grandma xx

APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Treasured memories, that will stay with us forever. We will miss you Geoff. Love Uncle Ains, Melanie and Tim xx

APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Dearly loved nephew of Heather and David. Adored cousin of Daniel, Kristen and Ben, Nick, Adam, Macy and Cleo, and friend of Nikki and Kelsey. You were born to be special, and your strength and determination has always amazed us. Wonderful memories of times together. We will miss your beautiful smile and those great Geoffrey hugs. Our love is with you forever.

APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Your smile, Your Hugs, Your Coffees, Your Chats. Our dear cousin and friend, you will always be in our hearts. Love Kristen, Ben, Macy and Cleo xx

deaths APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Geoff, it was a privilege to share life’s journey with you. You’re our cousin but we will always think of you as our brother. That smile never left your face, and your laugh was one of a kind. You’ve left us too soon mate, but you’ll be in our hearts and memories forever. We love ya buddy. Love always, Dan, Nick and Nikki, Ads and Kelsey. APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Forever loved nephew of Helen and Rob (Burns). Adored cousin of Mitchell, Kallan and Abbie. Friend of Lucie. Hey Geoff! We see you have your bag packed full of your special chuckle hugs, smiles and loads of all that fun stuff we did together. Are you sure you have to pack up and go so soon - cause we’re really gonna miss ya. xx APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Much adored nephew of Yvonne. I loved your gorgeous smile, infectious laugh and GIANT hugs. You were the most wonderful Dad to Kiara and Laura. I love you always and forever and miss you dearly, my darling Geoff. Much love Aunty Eemie. xx APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Geoff, the strength and courage you have shown since the day you were born can only give us the inspiration to go on. Your funny laugh, your big, big smile and those Mintie moments will remain with us always. A simple man with a big heart. Much love Andrew (Drewy), Julie, Kaylee (Kayz) and Jarryd (Jadz) Remembered always. APPLEYARD - Geoffrey. Dearly loved Nephew of Mark and Julie, much loved cousin of Dane, Jessie and Alex-Anne. Precious memories of our times together. In God’s care. APPLEYARD - Geoffrey Albert. 24.6.81 - 28.11.10 Loving son of Wendy. Adored brother of Nicole, Emma and Kate. Special mate of Caine, Steve and Dylan. Much loved Daddy of K.K. Bear and Lauras XXOO. There are no words that explain the loss of losing you. Special memories are mine to keep. Thank you for being a big part of my life. I’ll always treasure you. Love Homey (Mum) XXOO. Will miss our little chats. You were the best brother and will be forever in our hearts. Nicole and Caine XX.

deaths Me Goh, everytime I hear a new country song I will think of you. I couldn’t have asked for a better big brother. Missing you. Love always, your EmmasXX. You were the best brother anybody could have, I will never stop loving you Me Goh. My memories of you will never fade. Love Fez (Kate) XX. We love you darling, you were an inspiration to us all. I hope there is a Mintie shop in heaven, but please don’t leave the wrappers under your bed. You will always be remembered. Love Nana and Papa Fisher and family. Gereoff, no more coffee and bickies Geoff, but I’m sure Fris drinks enough for the both of you. Don’t drop your Mintie papers me boy. Love always T and Cummo. Your smile in our worlds forever. Will miss our great chats. Love you Geoffy. Jo and Taylor XXXX. MILNER - Russell Arthur (Rusty). Passed away at Latrobe Regional Hospital on December 5, 2010, aged 86 years. Late of Mirboo North. Loved and loving husband of Elva (dec.). Loved Dad of Kevin and Jill, Lorraine and Murray, Geoff and Pearl. Loved Grandpa and mate of Michelle and Carl, Glen, Shaun and Rachel; Tracey and Paul, Kim and Eagle, Alison and Tyson; Daniel and Amanda, Jake and Iluh, Lorinda and Scott. Great Grandpa of Lily, Audrey and Matilda; Melissa and Lydia, Ashley, Charlie, Lillian and Joe; Gypsy, and Harry. Re-united with Mum. “Cheers” MOSCRIPT - John. The light from the love of John shone upon all of us. Our sympathy and love to Marion, Julie and Brian, Chris and Janine, Glenn and Michele, and Tania, and families. Audrey and Mac, and family, “Willow Springs”, Leongatha North.

funerals MILNER - The Funeral Service for the late Mr Russell Arthur (Rusty) Milner will be held at St Mary’s Anglican Church, Mirboo North on Friday, December 10, 2010 commencing at 11.30am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Mirboo North Lawn Cemetery.

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8251 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, On the re-treat. 8, Spirit. 9, P-I-rate. 10, Dogfish. 12, Pause (paws). 15, A-foot. 16, Late-R on. 18, Sh-rill. 20, E-xis-ts. 22, Cottage piano. Down - 1, Snap’s off. 2, Char. 3, P-rot-est. 4, Stops (rev.). 5, De-crease. 6, Stet (anag.). 11, Florists. 13, Spotting. 14, Wave-red. 17, Bleat. 19, Hack. 21, Iris. QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8251 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Shepherd’s pie. 8, Spirit. 9, Record 10, Harrier 12, Amass 15, Sneak. 16, Pen-name. 18, Person. 20, Saturn. 22, Rider Haggard. Down - 1, Chaplain. 2, Spar. 3, Leather. 4, Adore. 5, Specimen. 6, Bear. 11, Rhapsody. 13, Sombrero. 14, Hessian. 17, Snare. 19, Earn. 21, Toga.

Meeniyan Junior Basketball GREAT games were played at the grand final on Friday, November 26. Section One Nineteen children commenced the season, learning a variety of skills, rules and team work, followed by a round robin of games each Friday night. Throughout the season with a mixture of existing players and new players, all children learnt and improved basketball skills. Friday, November 19 consisted of a series of warm up exercises and co-ordination skills, which included Mums and Dads. This was then followed by a few games, with the kids teams definitely winning and showing the adults how it is done, and then round robins. The night finished with a sausage sizzle, treats and certificates. Good luck to the ones who go up to Section 2 next season and we hope to see everyone back in early February.

Section 1: back: Eli Butler-Reid, Sam Bright, Beau Davey, Matt Moss, Aaron Mowat, Talia Janssen, Jessica Wolf, Conor Salmons and Darlene Jones (coach); front: Bianca Proudlock, Amy Tudor, Rory Harrington, Lachlan Elliott, Nicholas Bongers, Hayley Proudlock, Niamh Martin, Liam Waldron, Ethan Tudor and Mitchell Denbrok.

Section Two This year Section 2 had ﬁve teams, with a season of close and well fought out games. With a few coming up from Section 1 this season it was great to see all the teams improve and work on their team work. A credit to the players and their coaches for the season they had. Section 2 ﬁnished with a series of round robin games, which really showed everyone how far they had come. At the end of the night they were all rewarded with a medallion for their efforts.

Section 2: back: Bethany Pratt, Millie James, Mark Beattie, Grant Cole, Darby Butler-Reid, Aiden Holwerda, Harrison Cumming, Locke Degaris, Jesse Salmons and Michael Mowat; middle: Jai Bright, Stuart Bright, Hugh McDonald, Tylah Darmanin, Adam Mangiaﬁco, Hannah McEwan, Kasey Thorson, Irene Thorson and Jye Davey; front: Jake Waldron, Harry Vanderzalm, Elly Jones, Kayla Redpath, Hannah Potter, Ella Findlay, Will and Elijah Tracanelli.

Section Three Green 19 defeated Black 15. A great match was expected after narrow wins the elimination ﬁnals. The ﬁrst half was slow going. Black got into foul trouble late in the half, but still managed to be one point in front. The second half saw a better game. Green found a way to settle and shoot well, breaking through Black’s defence. Black also played a good game but just were not able to shoot as well as green. MVP for match: Jayden Hohmann (Green).

Section 3: back: Green Premier - Dean Thorson, Jayden Hohmann, Ashlee McDonald, Hannah Thorson, Rory Harrington and Tristan Hanks; front: Black runners-up - George Batten, David Cole, Kurt Newton, Matt Darmanin, Ozzy Brennan-Holt and Gemma Martin.

Section Four Red 35 defeated Black 27. Black came out in front in the ﬁrst half, after some great plays and fast goals. The second half saw them exhausted and unable to ﬁnish off some vital shots. Red were still playing a comfortable game and soon got themselves in front and managed to pull away. Some great team work by the Black kept them in touch until the last couple of minutes when red got a run of goals. MVP for match: Olivia Cope (Black) Don’t forget the AGM on December 9 at 7.30pm at the RSL Hall in Meeniyan next to the main hall.

Section 4: back: Red Premier - Jake Opray, Jamie Stefani, Eloise Scholte, Harry Sullings, Jacob Densley, Sam Wilson and Don Wilson (coach); front: Black runners-up - Tim Harris, Daniel Britton, Olivia Cope, Jack Stuart, Gen Scholte and Lucas Byrnes (coach).

Celebrating people with a disability A NIGHT of wheelchair basketball was held at Wonthaggi last Thursday to mark International Day of People with a Disability. GippsSport held the event at the Wonthaggi Leisure Centre to raise awareness of sport for people who are wheelchair bound. GippSport conducts the Access for All Abilities program in Gippsland to support sport and recreation opportunities for people with a disability. The Gippsland branch of Special Olympics Australia was represented at a celebration at Melbourne’s Federation Square. Amongst the sporting groups represented was Sailability, tennis, bowls, basketball and rowing. Special Olympics set up bocce, the European game played in Morwell at the Italian Club and soon to be established in Korumburra as a sport for all. The Special Olympic sports include aquatics, athletics, basketball, bocce, cricket, football, golf, gymnastics, sailing, skiing, softball and tennis. So if you know someone who would ﬁt this category or would like to become a volunteer, contact Shirley on 5657 3350. Those interested in learning to play bocce with Special Olympics at Korumburra may contact Maxine on 5655 1206. There has been some confusion as to the difference between Paralympics and Special Olympics.

Special Olympics Victoria is dedicated to enriching the lives of people with an intellectual disability through sporting opportunities. Brochures with information for people wishing to learn more may be obtained at the Korumburra Access Centre in Radovick Street, Korumburra. A market is held there on the ﬁrst Saturday of the month over summer.

Good times: Delphine Inger and Nikki Battison in the chairs.

PAGE 60 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Racing laps at ’Gatha cycling ON Friday night threatening clouds slipped by, giving spectators and riders a pleasant night.

43.67 and Alec Bennett on the smaller bike at 48.45 sec. The riders’ second event was a two lap handicap. The limit was Alec on 200m after his win the previous week. However, Thomas and Elliot were on fire. Thomas hit the front with 300m to go and came home a clear winner. Elliot managed to catch all the others as he swept home for second and Mitch Gin third. The riders were given some recovery time prior to some sprint match races. The first race was between Matt Minogue and Alec Bennett. These two raced around the bottom with Matt in front. Alec showed the benefit of his training and made a move at the

Riders were given the opportunity to warm up behind the motor bike. Elliot Gin made the most of the opportunity and was lapping at over 60km/h. After a short break the riders started on the ﬁrst event - a one lap time trial. The fast warm up and still conditions saw Elliot post a best for the season at 31.47 sec. Next in was Matt Dudley with a time of 33.76, which was a best for Matt. Thomas McFarlane was a smooth pedaller for a 34.30, Mitch Gin 35.63, Matt Minogue

200m mark but this was quickly answered by Matt who held on for the win. Next up it was Mitch Gin and Thomas McFarlane. Mitch had his gearing increased at Wednesday training and looked the winner with his move off the bank at 300m to go. However he was unable to wind the gear out and saw Thomas come past him up the straight. The last heat was a test between Elliot and Matt. As on most nights Matt has been unable to ﬁnd the knack to take a sprint from Elliot and Friday night was similar to the other weeks. The motor bike was brought back into action for a ﬁve lap Keirin event. The oldest rider being Elliot,

he again dominated proceedings when the bike came off. The major interest was in the minor places and Thomas had the answers as he claimed second ahead of Mitch. The last event of the night was a 12 lap motor paced scratch race. Again it was Elliot claiming the win. In second place was Matt Dudley ahead of Mitch who picked up his third bronze for the night. This leaves just two nights of racing prior to Christmas and then a four week break. Training will be on for Wednesday night, weather permitting and hopefully some of the juniors who have been busy at netball will get time for some bike racing.

South Gippsland Field and Game LAST Sunday 75 shooters competed for a selection of hams and chickens at the club’s Christmas shoot. The conditions were perfect for shooting and scores were generally very high.

Results AA: K. Jacobs 48/60, W. Leishout 44/60, L. Bridle 37/60. A: G. Cooper 49/60, J. Powell 46/60, J. White 42/60. B: B. Morrison 44, S. White 43, M. Bowyer 42. C: D. Morgan 44, J. Fowler 40, S. Alexander 39. Vets: J. Tait 52, E. J. Robbins 44, R. Bremner 41. Juniors: M. Ramsdale 39, C. Batten 35, S. Powell 34. Ladies: M. Hogan 38, B. Hart 32, J. Christmas shoot winners: AA Grade K. Jacobs, A Grade G. Cooper, B Grade B. Morrison, White 31. Lady M. Hogan, C Grade D. Morgan, Junior M. Ramsdale and Veteran J. Tait.

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

Junior winners: ﬁrst placed Romeo Di Lallo and second Sandrino Di Lallo.

Venus Bay Angling Club THE club held its December competition on December 3, 4 and 5. The weather was kind and we had 31 seniors and four juniors.

Results Seniors: first Phil Pavlidis, Trevally 1080g, second Peter Pavlidis, Trevally 1040g and third Paul Pavlidis, Trevally 1020g. Juniors: first Romeo Di Lallo, Whiting 360g, second Sandrino Di Lallo, Whiting 340g and third Riley Sharp, Perch 360g. Heaviest gummy shark: Joe Griscti 3500g. We send out a huge thank you to Jean from the Venus Bay Pizza shop and the Venus Bay Tackle shop who support the club every year. The next competition is a two and a half day event, which will commence at noon on Friday, January 7 and finish at 3pm on Sunday, January 9.

Come down to “The Shed” on the Friday night for our BYO barbecue. The club AGM is on Saturday, January 8 at 6.30pm at the Venus Bay Community Centre. Our club can’t survive without the volunteers who give up their time to ensure the smooth sailing of the club. If you have ever considered becoming a part of the committee, now is your chance. A reminder, that you can download nomination forms from our website, or let me know, and I can send you one by email, or snail mail. These nomination forms must be received by Maria Kostakos our secretary, 14 days before the AGM. Thank you to all our 2010 committee, your commitment and your tireless contributions are appreciated by us all. For more info visit www.venusbayanglingclub.org.au

At Port Phillip Heads

DECEMBER Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

8 WED

9 THUR

10 FRI

11 SAT

12 SUN

13 MON

14 TUE

0137 0703 1309 1914

1.64 0.64 1.37 0.15

0223 0751 1357 2000

1.64 0.58 1.37 0.17

0304 0836 1442 2043

1.62 0.53 1.36 0.22

0342 0918 1525 2123

1.59 0.50 1.34 0.28

0415 1000 1607 2200

1.54 0.47 1.30 0.35

0447 1038 1650 2237

1.49 0.46 1.27 0.43

0518 1115 1735 2314

1.44 0.45 1.24 0.52

All times shown in 24 hour clock 0001 - 1200..................AM 1201 - 2400..................PM

Westernport Bay WHOEVER penned the phrase, ‘Fortune favours the brave’, must have had fishing in mind. Those who braved the conditions early last week were certainly well rewarded. Snapper were taken in the deeper water all over the bay. Gummy sharks seemed to be following the snapper, with the largest being taken in the western entrance and around Elizabeth Island. King George whiting are all over Coronet Bay, with a lot of fish around 40-45cm. Dickies Bay, Cat Bay and Tortoise Head bank are all fishing well for whiting, as too is the middle spit. The Nutt joined Big John from Chelsea on Wednesday last week in Blake’s Channel, bagging out in one hour. Big John had a ball on the squid and coutta travelling from Flinders to Stony Point. With the easterly blowing up, things certainly went quiet on the jetties, with Newhaven and San Remo being the most productive. Still a few good squid in Cleeland Bight but they have certainly slowed down. Corinella hole still fishing well, but you must be patient. Inverloch Andrew from Grantville spent the afternoon and evening last Thursday fishing all over this area, for very little reward. Small flathead on the jetty and whiting from the beaches was about the best

he could do. He did however run into one keen angler at Flat Rocks who seemed to be doing well, with four decent sized trevally in his catch. The vegetarian ﬁsh (seaweed) were everywhere.

Maher’s Landing A lot of smaller fish at the moment, with most fishermen returning nine out of 10 fish taken. The bream seemed to be well fed and are only nibbling the baits.

Walkerville Slow going at the moment for salmon, ﬂathead and gummy shark, but those with patience are still taking home a feed.

Port Albert Good run of ﬂathead here late last week, with the area around Sunday Island most productive on pilchard ﬁllets.

Ninety Mile Beach Mystery surrounds the report of a two metre gummy taken at Woodside Beach on a salmon. It seems the torpedoes are plentiful at the moment. If anyone knows more about the big gummy, please give me a call.

Hollands Landing Only one report this week from this area. Flathead to one kg close to the ramp and in the Straights. One whiting taken in a four hour trip.

Metung Bream and ﬂathead taken from the boardwalk, but certainly a lot slower than previous weeks.

Lake Tyers Heaps of juvenile fish around at the moment, but persevere because the big ones are still around. One bream was caught on Wednesday last week weighing 3¼ kgs. Garden worms seem to be the best bait, with plastics doing the trick on the flathead. At last the election is over. A lot of promises were made by both sides and now we have to wait to see which ones are delivered on by the victors. The one that seems most important to a lot of fishermen is the rebuilding of Long Jetty, what a great thing this would be for the whole region. So let’s all band together and keep the pressure on to deliver on this promise. Government accountants estimate the recreational fishing industry is worth about nine billion dollars a year. It would be nice to see some return on our investment, wouldn’t it? Stay safe and good fishing to you all. If you have a report or a question call Fishnutt on 0409 865 843.

The Pavlidis boys: Phil, Peter and Paul Pavlidis were ﬁrst, second and third in the seniors category.

South Gippsland Bridge Club

Meeniyan – Monday evening: 1st Faye Rowlands, Frank Arndt. 2nd Susan Rufﬁn, Clive Hope. 3rd Bluey Aeschlimann, John Cocking. 4th Barbara Axten, Pat West. 5th Margaret Munro, Ellie McIntyre. Tarwin Lower – Tuesday: 1st Jack Kuiper, Alan Johnston. 2nd Faye Rowlands, Pat West. 3rd Frank Arndt, Clive Hope. 4th Margaret Munro, Barbara Axten. Inverloch – Friday – graded pairs: Side1: 1st John Sullivan, Alan Johnston. 2nd Jack Kuiper.,Jean Barbour. 3rd John Farr, Anne Williams. 4th John Sutton, Kaye Douglas. 5th Ian and Julie MacPhee. Side 2: 1st Hannah Martin, Beth Hopcraft. 2nd Margo Moylan, Greg Nicholson. 3rd Kathy Geyer, Leila Bell. 4th Barbara Axten, Margaret Munro. 5th Dawn Jolly, George Geekie. 6th Mavis Parks, Ron Webster. Please note change to Christmas party at Inverloch, Friday, December 17 starting time 12.30 for 1pm start. Afternoon tea only – bring a small plate only.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 61

South Gippsland pennant bowls

WHAT a crazy season we are having in South Gippsland pennant bowls this year. Even long time bowlers cannot remember a season when there have been four washouts in the space of eight weeks. One week on, then one week off, and that is the way the season has panned out so far, so this week it was the turn of there being no rain, and that is the way it went. There were no suprises in Division 1, as all the home teams won. Inverloch won all three rinks to score an 18 shots victory over Mirboo North, Korumburra received a big scare at the hands of Foster, who actually took two of the three rinks to score a narrow seven shot victory. Phillip Island showed Lang Lang how to do it, with a 25 shots win, taking two of the three rinks, whilst Wonthaggi, who actually led at the half way break by 12 shots, fell away to let Leongatha back in and win two of the three rinks by a total of nine shots. It would be actually inter-

esting to get the view of bowlers as to what they think about the half way break. Do players want a break or just play through as in women’s pennant? A similar story appeared in Division 2, with the home side all scoring comfortable wins. Inverloch White over Phillip Island by 14 shots, Toora accounted for Wonthaggi by 15 shots, Meeniyan trounced Inverloch Blue by 67 shots. Amazingly Inverloch Blue took one rink off Meeniyan. San Remo accounted for Leongatha by 13 shots. Results Division 1: Inverloch 1673 d Mirboo North 0-55; Leongatha 14-83 d Wonthaggi 2-74: Korumburra 12-70 d Foster 4-63: Phillip Island 14-79 d Lang Lang 0-66. Division 2: Inverloch White 14-78 d Phillip Island 2-64: Toora 14-76 d Wonthaggi 2-61: Meeniyan 14-105 d Inverloch Blue 2-38: San Remo 16-79 d Leongatha 0-66. Division 3: Foster 2-70 lt Loch 14-77: Fish Creek 14-85 d Korumburra 2-81; Wonthaggi 14-63 d Tarwin Lower 2-58:

Leongatha

TUESDAY November 30 saw our pennant ladies taste the fruits of victory. Division 3 played at Inverloch and managed to defeat the highly fancied Inverloch teams 51 to 47 shots. Also playing at Inverloch, our Division 2 ladies managed a win by 19 shots. Well done teams and hope this winning trend can continue. Next round sees our Division 2 away to Tarwin Lower with Division 3 also away, this time to Toora. Tuesday evening saw our teams in the business bowls in action again with some very keen competition. I have been unable to get details as to the ﬁnal results on the night, but believe that The Shed were in a tense struggle with Gold, but both teams prior to the night were on the same level, undefeated. Next Tuesday will again see the action underway with the ﬁnals the week after. Wednesday December 1 saw the midweek social bowls in action in a triples event. The winners were W. Fisher (s), A. Brown and T. Haywood on two wins plus 24. Runners-up were B. Turner (s), J. Pendergast and Joan Bee with two wins plus 1. Sponsors for the day were South Gippsland Insurers and the club thanks them for their valued support. The Leongatha men’s pennant team went into action on Saturday December 4. Division

Inverloch

AS a mark of respect to one of our club’s true stalwarts, Geoff Brook, who passed away on Saturday morning, each one of our teams and their opponents observed a minute’s silence prior to the start of their matches on Saturday. We had mixed fortunes in last Saturday’s round of pennant matches. There were three good wins by Division 1. Division 2 White and Division 4 to help secure their places in the top of their premiership ladders, but in the other two divisions both suffered heavy losses. Division 1 were home to Mirboo North and had a good 18 shot win, but had to ﬁght off strong challenges by their opponents during the game, but all rinks took their games. Division 2 White also played at home against Phillip Island and had a 14 shot win, despite losing on Trevor Scott’s rink by seven shots. Division 2 Blue travelled to Meeniyan where Tim Hancock’s rink put in a great performance to be never headed and won in a great battle by a narrow margin of two shots, while the other two rinks, after a good start fell away and had massive losses, and the end result saw them go down by 73 shots as a result of some great

Phillip Island 14-74 d Corinella 2-65: Division 4: San Remo 2-62 lt Korumburra 14-71: Inverloch 16-81 d Leongatha 0-51: Phillip Island 16-0 d Mirboo North 0-0 (walkover). Division 5: Tarwin Lower 0-44 lt Port Welshpool 16-89: Lang Lang 16-74 d Meeniyan 0-57; Wonthaggi 15-99 d Inverloch 1-61. Loch 16-85 d Fish Creek 0-58 Division 6: Phillip Island 0-0 (Bye): Toora 12-53 d San Remo 2-35; Meeniyan 12-49 d Wonthaggi 2-45. Ladders Division 1 Phillip Island .............-116 96 Leongatha.................... -41 86 Inverloch .................... -20 82 Korumburra .............. -46 70 Mirboo North ............. -19 54 Wonthaggi .................. -35 66 Lang Lang .................. -75 43 Foster .......................... -94 35 Division 2 Inverloch White ......... -73 84 Toora ........................... -64 84 Meeniyan .................... -83 79 San Remo ..................... -6 68 Phillip Island ............... -26 62 Wonthaggi ..................... -4 55 Leongatha ................... -97 50

1 were at home to Wonthaggi and came out the winners 83 shots to 74. Division 2 journeyed to San Remo but were unsuccessful being defeated 74 shots to 56. Division 4 also took a trip to Inverloch and it appears the salt air must have taken effect with Inverloch running out winners 81 to 51. Next round sees Division 1 away to Foster with Division 2 at home to Phillip Island and Division 4 also at home to San Remo. Friday night, December 3 saw the club hold their Kitty Club Christmas function with a large number of members and friends present for what turned out to be a great night. Board chairman John O’Connor again kept a ﬁrm hand on the proceedings and also extended sincere thanks to those who have contributed to the success of the Kitty Club during the year the chef, Ron Hutton and team, the ladies in the kitchen and the bar staff, and wished everyone the very best for the festive season. The Leongatha Club also extends to all our sponsors and their families the very best for the festive season and looks forward to your continued valued support in 2011. To those of the members who have travelled to other clubs at their various weekly events during the year and to Peter and Pam Kennedy and those who have represented the club at other tournaments, the club is extremely grateful.

bowling by their opponents. Division 4 were home to Leongatha and were the best performers of the day with a 30 shot win, with all three rinks winning comfortably. Division 5 were away to Wonthaggi. Ken Peterson’s rink played a 28-all draw and Bob Delahoy’s rink were narrow losers. The other rink, like two of our rinks in Division 2 Blue, had very big losses and lost by 38 shots. It was good to see Ian Wood back playing in the Division 5 game. Results Division 1: Inverloch 73 d Mirboo North 55. Division 2: Inverloch White 78 d Phillip Island 64; Inverloch Blue 38 lt Meeniyan 105. Division 4: Inverloch 81 d Leongatha 51. Division 5: Inverloch 61 lt Wonthaggi 99. Last Thursday 24 players played social bowls. After two games of 12 ends there were four two-game winners. Two teams were equal on 36 points and winners were decided by shots up, with 19 shots up were the pairing of P. Dalmau (ld) and D. Muir (sk). Runners-up with 16 shots up were G. Hardy (l) and N. West (sk). Other two game winners were D. Watt (ld) and A. Easterbrook (sk) with 35 points

and G. Dent (ld) and J. Arnold (sk) with 33 points. Last Wednesday’s evening business bowls was won by White’s Carpets, with the very good score of 27 shots up. Runners-up with 17 shots up were the Seaseel team. Once again there were 28 teams playing and the series has three more weeks to run.

Ladies UNFORTUNATELY all three divisions had a loss at pennant on Tuesday, November 30. First division lost to Phillip Island by 25 shots at Phillip Island. Divisions two and three both played Leongatha at home. Second division lost by 19 shots and division three lost by four shots. Twenty-four ladies played social bowls on Wednesday, December, 1; with only one two game winner. These were Carol Hughes, Carole Baines, Molly Treadwell and Joan Clark. The Christmas dinner is on Saturday, December 18; at $22 a head. Please pay Veronica Joyce or Carol Waters. An apology to Jill Bateman for forgetting to remember her birthday. Lola Marsh has a birthday this week as does Dorothy McIntosh.

Inverloch Blue .......... -159 30 Division 3 Tarwin Lower .......... -102 80 Loch ............................ -26 74 Korumburra .............. -18 72 Wonthaggi .................... -7 70 Corinella ...................... -66 66 Fish Creek .................... -8 66 Foster .......................... -75 50 Phillip Island ............ –136 34 Division 4 Inverloch ................... -94 100 Korumburra .............. -70 98 Phillip Island .............. -44 84 San Remo .................. -36 62 Leongatha ................... -75 57 Mirboo North ............. -97 31 Division 5 Lang Lang .................. -59 94 Wonthaggi ................ -109 83 Port Welshpool .......... -75 74 Loch ........................... -34 68 Tarwin Lower ............... -2 62 Meeniyan ...................... -3 58 Fish Creek .................. -94 44

Inverloch ................... –110 29 Division 6 Toora ........................... -39 71 Phillip Island .............. -51 68 Wonthaggi .................... -5 46 Meeniyan ................... -35 42 San Remo ................... -60 25 Denis Stanes’ ‘kiss of death’ tips for next week are, in Division 1, Wonthaggi (home) will be no match for Inverloch, Foster (home) will give Leongatha a huge scare, but just down in a close one, Phillip Island (home) by 35 shots over Korumburra, with Lang Lang (home) will be too strong for Mirboo North. Clubs should remember it is getting close to the cut off for qualification for players for finals. Clubs will be emailed in the coming week with an explanation sheet regarding finals qualification.

Meeniyan

Pennant on Saturday, November 27 was again washed out, making it four from eight so far. On Saturday, December 4 Division 2 at home to Inverloch Blue had a big win, 105 to 38, with two rinks getting the points. Away to Lang Lang, Division 5 got off to a flying start but fell by the wayside, going down 57 to 74, with no rinks successful. Sixes at home to Wonthaggi won 49 to 45, with one rink getting the points. Next week twos are away to San Remo, fives are home to Tarwin Lower and sixes are home to Phillip Island. Thursday, December 2 was our monthly triples sponsored by accountants, Trytell, Wheller and Boucher. It was a double to Mirboo North, and the winners were Kevin Queale, Mick Dillon and Peter Williams (Foster). Runners-up were Phil Stimson, Ray Czempinski and Morrie Briscoe. Locals Russ Thorson, John Cocking and Peter Hill won the lucky draw. Members are reminded that tickets for the Christmas raffle need to be in before Thursday, December 9 which is our break-up, 6.30 for a 7pm start.

LADIES pennant has continued with its run of ﬁne weather. On Tuesday, November 23, away to Lang Lang, Division 1 had a 17 shot win. Home to Wonthaggi on the following week they went down by 16 shots. Division 3 also away went down by 14 shots to Korumburra and last week at home to Phillip Island they had a 17 shot win. This week ones were away to Inverloch and threes away to San Remo. Friday, November 26 was Meeniyan ladies tournament which was held under threatening skies. Our sponsor as usual was Kelvin Johns Retravision. Winners were a team from San Remo, with Inverloch runners-up on a countback from Korumburra. Jan Coates (Tarwin Lower) won the lucky draw. In one week of social bowls winners were Don Paterson, Joyce Fuller and Kaye Kilburn, a visiting bowler from NSW with her husband Terry. Week four of corporate bowls sees the top four at present being Prom Country, G&P, K&G and Double Trouble.

Loch THE pennant results for the past week were great, with all three teams getting through their games as the weather was kinder. Division 2 played Corinella at Loch on Tuesday with all three rinks managing a win. On Saturday, Division 3 also won, this time at Foster and Division 5 also won on all three rinks at Fish Creek. Well done everyone. Over the past two Wednesdays, the ladies have started both the 100up and the 21up, with some good games played. At twilight bowls, also over the last two Wednesdays, there have been some new faces amongst the regulars. The winners have been Jaimee Scott, Peter Stebbings and Gary Horner and Graham Turton, Matt Drifﬁl and Tom Loughridge. On Thursday the ladies had a Try Bowls day, where thirteen people had some tuition from new coach Alan before trying out what they had learnt on the green. The weather turned nasty just when things were going smoothly, so the rest of the bowling was cancelled and lunch was enjoyed. We hope the participants enjoyed their experience and that they will give it another go soon. Thankyou to all members who supported the day and to Alan for his input.

Tarwin Lower THE ladies Division 2 had a bye this week, enabling them to sit back and relax. Not so Division 3, who travelled to San Remo and in breezy conditions. Both teams were pretty even all day, but in the end could not come away with a win, going down by four shots overall, a good effort though maybe a win is just around the corner. A cool and windy night greeted the Barefoot Bowls on Tuesday night, but this didn’t quell the enthusiasm of the top two undefeated teams, the Ramones led by Russell Ellen and the Sharks by Marian Williamson. Prize win-

ner for the night was Andy Guymer. A good crowd turned up for twilight bowls, with four teams taking to the green playing fours in warm conditions. Winner for the night was a team skippered by John Moloni. More than 20 stayed on for supper provided by Bev Martin. Men’s pennant had Division 3 playing at Wonthaggi winning only one rink and losing overall for the day. Division 5 fared much worse playing home to Port Welshpool, who proved to be far too good, winning all three rinks comfortably.

SGDLBA pennant Results - Round 9 November 30 DIVISION 1 Foster 82 (36 shots) d Lang Lang 46 (R. Richardson 32 d R. Geyer 13, L. Vignocchi 21 d D. Motton 13, M. Climas 29 d J. Prowd 20). Phillip Island 84 (25 shots) d Inverloch 59 (P. Francis 35 d A. Tschiderer 15, P. Davis 27 d C. Hughes 21, R. James 22 lt I. Sheppard 23). Wonthaggi 82 (16 shots) d Meeniyan 66 (K. Simpson 32 d A. Van Wamel 20, J. Clarkson 29 d M. Pearson 28, I. Donohue 21 d L. Hanks 18). Port Welshpool 71 (13 shots) d San Remo 58 (M. McDonald 32 d K. Hale 15, L. McLaine 18 d C. Thorn 17, A. Collins 21 lt S. Carvosso 26). DIVISION 2 Phillip Island 80 (3 shots) d Korumburra 77 (A. Green 30 d J. McLaren 18, J. Boyce 27 drew J. McVeigh 27, R. Viney 23 lt B. Button 32). Loch 80 (32 shots) d Corinella 48 (J. Miller 25 d E. Johnston 21, G. Garry 27 d T. Durbridge 10, V. Kennedy 28 d M. Dillon 17). Wonthaggi 84 (35 shots) d Fish Creek 49 (M. McBain 31 d P. Hazeltine 15, J. Brusamarello 29 d F. McKenzie 16, T. Kavanagh 24 d L. Harper 18). Leongatha 81 (19 shots) d Inverloch 62 (T. McCormack 24 d J. Bateman 20, E. McIntyre 35 d D. Patterson 12, F. Turner 22 lt N. Martin 30). Tarwin - bye (2 pts). DIVISION 3

Toora 77 (53 shots) d Foster 24 (K. Barwick 46 d A. Horstra 5, B. Curram 31 d E. Dudﬁeld 19). Leongatha 51 (4 shots) d Inverloch 47 (G. Emmerson 27 d V. Muir 17, M. Jepson 24 lt J. Arnold 30). Wonthaggi 49 (4 shots) d Korumburra 45 (G. Mitford 24 d N. Gilbert 19, D. Yarley 25 lt M. Williams 26). San Remo 41 (4 shots) d Tarwin 37 (B. De Rooy 22 d J. Stafferton 18, M. Bates 19 drew S. Browne 19). Meeniyan 51 (17 shots) d Phillip Island 34 (J. Cocking 30 d E. Stephenson 16, G. Densley 21 d D. Coleman 18).

Korumburra

wins plays 11 shots up, were Keith March and Ross Lomagno. Saturday social bowls, for those not playing pennant, has been very disappointing for the club match committee with only four or ﬁve turning up. Saturday afternoon bankers is there for all members, men and ladies and friends of the club, all are most welcome, names in by 12.30pm. With a warm day on Saturday, Korumburra hosted our friends from Foster. At the day’s end, the Korumburra men ﬁnished with an 11 shot win. Our best result was Ross Besley’s team of Rob Snooks, Ron Williams and Ken Cecil’s 14 shot win against P. Wiliamson’s team. The Division 3 men’s team played at Fish Creek and had a four shot loss overall, with Andy Robertson’ team of Gary Ingley, George Hams and Rob Dorritty’s two shot win our best result. Division 4 played at San Remo where they caught the big one, getting home by nine shots. The best result of the day was Hugh Opray’s team of David Goodridge, Ben Peachey and John McVeigh who had an 11 shot win against G. Ryan, our best result. Our Christmas breakup party will be held on December 18. Names on the sheet by Friday 10 please. The ladies’ last day of pennant will be next Tuesday, with mixed bowls on Wednesday 15th, with a shared lunch. Pennant next week has Division 2 ladies home to Loch. Division 3 ladies will be home to Toora. Next week the men’s Division 1 will play at Phillip Island, Division 3 will be home to Foster and Division 4 home to Mirboo North. There is only one more week of pennant prior to the Christmas break, until the second week in January. To all our sickees, a big cheerio. A big thankyou to Carol, Debbie and Ron - the Christmas decorations look great.

SUNDAY was our Memorial Fours day, but with so many other bowling events on the calendar, numbers were down on former years. Our thanks to the sponsor, Steve Blogg Industries, whose support is greatly appreciated by the club. After three games, the winners, with three wins plus 22 shots, were Ross Besley, Rob Snooks, Bruce McLaren and Peter Goad. The runners-up on the day, with 2½ wins plus 16 shots, were Les Eastman’s team of Ken Cecil, Brian Clough and Kevin Watson. The four who had the best score in one game were the Loch team of Greg Hodge, Finley Luke, Geoff Barber and John Kennedy, with 20 shots up. Thanks to the ladies who prepared the meals, bar staff and Steve and Judy for the sponsorship of the day. The ladies pennant on Tuesday didn’t have the result we would have liked to have seen, with both sides going down by four and three respectively. Division 2 were home to Phillip Island, with a three shot loss. Bev Button’s team of Debbie Williams, Margaret Claney and Margaret Brown’s nine shot win against Roma Viney’s team was our best result. Division 3 played at Wonthaggi, where they had a four shot loss, with Marj William’s team of Mary Wrench, Mae Harris and Carol Fields’ one shot win against Dot Yarley’s team our best result overall for all the ladies on Tuesday. The howling wind throughout South Gippsland was the winner, but better than the rain the men have had for their Saturday pennant. The ladies on Wednesday had the numbers to play pairs. After two games, the winners for the day were Margaret Brown and Natalie Opray, with two wins and 15 ends. With the men back on the greens on Thursday, after three games, the winners with three

Ladders Division 1 Inverloch ........................+100 16 Wonthaggi ......................+157 12 Phillip Island....................+77 12 San Remo ..........................-43 10 Foster...................................+4 8 Lang Lang ........................ -68 6 Meeniyan............................-88 4 Port Welshpool .................-139 4 Division 2 Korumburra ..................+123 13 Wonthaggi ......................+108 13 Leongatha ........................+81 11 Loch ..................................+26 11 Phillip Island .......................+4 10 Tarwin ................................-46 10 Corinella.............................-51 8 Inverloch ..........................-117 6 Fish Creek ........................-128 3 Division 3 Toora ..............................+154 16 Wonthaggi ........................+34 12 Inverloch ..........................+93 10 Meeniyan..........................+11 10 Phillip Island .......................+6 10 Korumburra .........................+4 10 Leongatha..............................-6 8 San Remo ............................-43 6 Foster.................................-118 6 Tarwin ...............................-135 2

PAGE 62 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Woorayl

LAST Saturday we held a stableford event sponsored by Cleanaway. The A Grade winner was Geoff McKinnon with 40 points, B Grade went to Mark James with 41 points and C Grade and best score of the day was Rob Warren with a great 46 points. Balls went to T. Burgess, A. Hills, B. Wilson, M. Collins, D. Lim, O. Vandervorm and Max Wood. The men’s nearest the pins went to D. Lim 8th and B. Wilson 17th. The ladies competition was won by Thel Scoble with 38 points, with balls going to E. McBride and S. Thomas. The ladies’ nearest the pins went to Shirley Thomas 8th and Dot Jarvis 17th. Our Thursday competition was won by Otto Vandervorm, with balls going to two of our juniors, T. Burgess and R. Higgins. The nearest the pin on the 17th hole was won by E. Poole. Don’t cook this Thursday as it’s the second of our meal and Christmas rafﬂes. Next week we will play a stroke event for the men and a par event for the ladies. Our sponsor for the day is Leongatha Car Detailing, it is also the second round of our summer trophies. Sunday was an ambrose event for our sponsors, results next week.

Mirboo North

THE winner of the ladies monthly medal event played on Wednesday, December 1 was J. St Ellen 34 hcp. 104-34-70. Nearest the pin: 6th T. Higginbottom, 13th S. Evison.

Thursday, Dec 2

There were 25 starters for the stableford event played on Thursday, and the CCR was 70. The winner was Ron Anderson (17) 41 points. Congratulations Prez, ﬁnally hitting form. Down the line: Mike Higginbottom (36) 40, Ray Matthews (10) 39, Peter Chapman (13) 38. Birdie 6th Peter Draper.

Saturday, Dec 4 A 3BBB stableford medley

was played on Saturday sponsored by Monacellars Wine and Spirits, with 52 starters and the CCR was 70. A Grade winner was Ron Anderson 17, Freda Fernandez 41, Mary Beruldsen 38, 93 points; Stan Evison 21, Terry Donnison 17, Keith Clerks 28, 91 points. Down the line: Joe Kus 15, Wayne Reynolds 16, Phil Garlick 26, 90 points. Nearest the pin: 4th Freda Fernandez, 6th Keith Clerks (propin), 13th Rob Clarke, 16th Peter Draper, 1st hole 2nd shot Peter Chapman. Birdies: Wayne Reynolds 16th, Joe Kus 4th, Ray Hoskin 6th, Peter Sanderson 6th. Eagle - Peter Chapman (1st hole).

Great day of tradesmen’s golf THE Considine and Johnston tradesmen’s golf day was held on Friday, November 26 at Leongatha Golf Club and was sponsored by Ryans Buildpro.

Phil Lovel: one of the winners takes his shot.

Leongatha

More than 100 golfers attended, the weather co-operated and a great time was had by all. The overall winners were: Tom Ryan (Ryans Buildpro, Leongatha), Phil Lovel (Victorian Transport Association), Paul Ryan (Victorian Transport Association) and Eric Rogers (Austral Brick). Eric was part of a different team that won last year.

Phil and Eric: Phillip Johnstone from Considine and Johnstone and Eric Rogers from Austral Bricks discuss their strategy before the start of play.

CONGRATULATIONS to Dylan and the course staff for the superb condition of the course. A lot of new work has been done and the contribution of the greens committee and volunteers is also appreciated. The December medal was won by Ron Chaplin who scored 86-22-64 to be top of the B Grade. Geoff Kurrle had 82-17-65 for a great victory in A Grade, while Fred Debono took C Grade with 95-28-67. Pro-pin winner was Ken Wardle and nearest the pin went to Allan Edney. Best putter on those excellent greens was Ray Davies (26 putts) and Doug Clemann’s 79 was the day’s best gross. Ball winners: R. Davies, M. Hunter, R. Paice, D. Clemann 68; M. Kavanagh, N. Gillin 69; J. Eabry 71, P. Stivic, M. Stubbs, N. Johnson 72; B. Vorwerg 73.

Left Winning team: Tom Ryan, Phil Lovel, sponsor Considine and Johnston’s Ross Considine, Paul Ryan and Eric Rogers.

Tuesday Geoff McDonald showed great skill in his round of 41 points (75 off-the-stick), putting a clear margin back to the runner-up Doug Clemann on 38. Jack Curtis 14th and Dave Vorwerg 16th were the nearest the pin winners. The following won down the line balls: J. Smith 37, P. Waters 36, D. Webster, J. Cummins, G. Hines, G. Maher 35; A. Edney 34, J. Lowell 33.

Thursday Plus six was the magic score, with all grade winners recording that excellent score. Ray Davies must have been wary of slipping into B Grade, so he has checked the handicap slide in winning A Grade. Merv Stubbs has enjoyed a purple patch lately and he took B Grade easily, while Arthur Nilsson had a scorcher to career away with C Grade. Les Newton and Ray Davies were nearest the pin winners. Ball winners: P. Hartigan +3, D. Clemann, L. Newton, F. Debono, I. Nunn, K. Castwood, D. Reaby, M. Oliver +1; B. Gibson, B. Hutton square. Saturday’s event is an Irish fourball followed on Sunday by the R. and M. Hodges mixed 4BBB stableford and turkey run combined. The Knights Mitsubishi Whisky wind-up of the Thursday competition is on Thursday, December 16.

Cecil region’s top junior Results South Gippsland Junior Golf Tournament: 1st James Cecil 67 net (Lang Lang Golf Club); runner-up Travis Jones 70 net (Korumburra Golf Club); 3rd James Fowler 71 net (Phillip Island Golf Club); 4th Jake Clark 79 net (Phillip Island Golf Club).

Sunday nine hole competition A good day for the December round of the Sunday nine hole competition, with 57 players competing in 10 teams. The ladies’ best gross of 43 was scored by Rebecca Thomas, while Allan Edney and Doug Clemann shared the men’s gross with a score of 40. Jean Chaplin 51-18-32½ won the ladies’ best net. Dean Budak with 43-18-25 recorded the men’s best net. There were many broken handicaps and and good scores in the event. The team event was very close, with only one shot separating each of the top four teams: 1st L.L.T. 137, 2nd 7-Up 138, 3rd Espy Eagles 139, 4th The Floggers 140. The January team event will be played on January 16.

Top players: from left, James Fowler, Phillip Island, came third and Korumburra’s Travis Jones placed second in the South Gippsland Junior Golf tournament played at the Phillip Island Golf Club in Cowes on Sunday.

Allambee Mirboo and District tennis IN A Grade Koony won the men’s sets, and the Leongatha ladies kept the match alive. The mixed were even and Koony kept ahead on games. Hallston, with the added strength of Matt won the men’s sets. The ladies and mixed were even, a tie-breaker each way. Hallston won the day. Koony are on top of this section, but the other three teams are very close. In A Reserve, Leongatha were big winners against Outtrim. Well done to Don, Sam and Ben playing together as a family for the ﬁrst time. Mardan won well against Berrys Creek. Two tie-break-

ers to Mardan in the ladies, then two 7/5s to Berrys Creek. The other sets were not so close and Mardan won well. Koonwarra won well against Korumburra. In B Grade, Young Ones have done well this season and are now only half a point out of the four. Well done again. Foster have moved up the ladder, now in second spot with the win over Baromi. Foster ladies won well and the mixed sets were in Foster’s favour too. Mardan Red are winning well and are well on top of this grade. Koony are back on the winner’s list with a win against Outtrim, three 7/5s to Koony and a tie-breaker and 7/5 to Outtrim.

Please remember the men’s and ladies’ doubles tournament at the Leongatha tennis courts next Sunday, December 12. If you don’t have a partner and would like to play contact another club. In this tournament you only have to have played one game to be eligible.

Results A Grade: Koonwarra 5.60, Leongatha 4.52; Hallston 6.64, Leongatha North 3.57. A Reserve: Koonwarra 7.48, Korumburra 2.27; Leongatha 8.51, Outtrim 1.25; Mardan 6.52, Berrys Creek 3.36; Baromi - bye. B Grade: Young Ones 6.47, Mardan Blue 3.33; Foster 6.47, Baromi 3.35; Mardan Red 8.50, Korumburra 1.25;

Koonwarra 7.56, Outtrim 2.38; Hallston - bye.

Ladders A Grade Koonwarra ...........................68.5 Leongatha ...........................51.0 Hallston ................................51.0 Leongatha North ................47.5 A Reserve Leongatha ...........................86.0 Koonwarra ...........................62.5 Baromi ..................................58.0 Mardan.................................45.5 Korumburra ...........................45.5 Berrys Creek .........................44.5 Outtrim ..................................43.0 B Grade Mardan Red.........................81.5 Foster....................................63.5 Koonwarra ...........................55.5 Outtrim ................................55.5 Young Ones ...........................55.0 Hallston .................................51.0 Baromi...................................50.0 Korumbura ............................39.5 Mardan Blue..........................39.5

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 63

Leongatha Little Athletics

NINETY athletes competed in humid conditions which contributed to 189 personal best performances.

Centre records as follows: Tom O’Loughlin: Under 16 boys shotput 11.31, 800m 2.39.88, 200m 26.50 and high jump 1.55m. Eleanor Patterson: Under 15 girls high jump 1.60m. Ruby Martin: Under 10 girls long jump 3.61, 60m hurdles 12.35s. Eddie Colwill: Under 6 boys 15.51s. Under 6 boys: H. Herbert javelin, E. Colwill 60m hurdle and long jump, H. Barnes 60m hurdle and javelin, R. Sturtevant long jump and 70m, 60m hurdle. Under 6 girls: B. Tudor 60m hurdle, T. Matheson 70m, 60m hurdle, N. Crimp shotput, 60m hurdle, discus. Under 7 boys: K. Deering 60m hurdle and discus, M. Malloy javelin and 60m hurdle, A. Battersby discus, 60m hurdle and javelin, L. Marshman 70m, J. Couper discus and 60m hurdle. Under 7 girls: A. Ritchie discus, F. Burgess discus, J. Findlay discus, J. Zubcic 60m hurdle, discus and javelin, E. Trease 70m 60m hurdle, discus and javelin, A. Couper javelin. Under 8 boys: N. Jefferis 60m hurdle and shotput, S. Herbert 60m hurdle 70m, M. Matheson shotput, 60m hurdle, javelin long jump 70m, K. Brown 60m hurdle, 70m and javelin, L. Boyle 60m hurdle, shotput, long jump, javelin and 70m, R. Giliam 60m hurdle, shotput and 70m, B. Harris javelin and shotput, C. Riseley 70m shotput, 60m hurdle, javelin and long jump, L. Murrell shotput, 70m, javelin

Fun and friendship: is what little athletics is all about, as shown by the under 10 girls. and 60m hurdle, C. Whelan shotput, 70m and long jump, B. Fennell shotput, long jump and 70m, M. Cook 60m hurdle and long jump, J. Charlton shotput, 60m hurdle and javelin. Under 8 girls: L. Richmond 60m hurdle and vortex, A. Crimp vortex, N. Martin 60m hurdle, high jump and

shotput, S. Parker 60m hurdle, high jump, shotput and vortex, T. Kelly high jump and 60m hurdle. Under 9 boys: A. Ritchie long jump and 60m hurdle, A. Herbert vortex and long jump, R. Frank long jump and vortex, C. Murrell vortex and shotput, O. McLean long jump,

60m hurdle, vortex and shotput, D. Sturtevant long jump, vortex and 60m hurdle, R. Hanks 60m hurdle, vortex and shotput and 70m, A. Trease long jump and shotput, L. Deering vortex. Under 9 girls: K. Thomas 60m hurdle, javelin, long jump and 70m, M. Smith long jump, javelin and high

jump, L. Colwill 70m and 60m hurdle, C. Standﬁeld javelin, 60m hurdle and long jump, M. Birrell shotput, 60m hurdle, javelin and 70m, T. Duckworth 60m hurdle, high jump, shotput, javelin and long jump, K McJames-Court 70m, 60m hurdle and long jump. Under 10 boys: N. Matheson high jump and 60m hurdle, M. Bentvelzen javelin, S. Kennedy 70m, E. Douglas discus, 70m, 60m hurdle and high jump, E. Zubcic javelin, M. Boasman 70m and 60m hurdle, S. Chadwick 60m hurdle, T. Kelly high jump, discus and javelin. Under 10 girls: A. Tudor discus and 60m hurdle, S. Beecroft long jump and discus, H. Wight 60m hurdle and long jump, R. Martin 60m hurdle, 70m and long jump, L. Graeme 70m, 60m hurdle and long jump, E. Findlay long jump. Under 11 girls: A. Standﬁeld 60m hurdle, 800m and 50m, B. Deering 1500m walk, 60m hurdle, 50m and 200m, J McJames-Court 60m hurdle, 800m and shotput. Under 12 boys: E. Parker 200m, 800m, 60m and hurdle, H. McLean 60m hurdle. Under 12 girls: L. Akers 50m, N. Stockdale 50m. Under 13 boys: J. Patterson shotput, W. Graeme shotput, 50m, 200m and high jump. Under 13 girls: G. Martin 200m, shotput, 50m and high jump. Under 14 boys: C. McCormack high jump. Under 15 girls: E. Patterson shotput, 200m and high jump, M. Witherow high jump. Under 16 boys: T. O’Loughlin 800m, shotput, 200m and high jump.

Wonthaggi Little Athletics EIGHTY-one athletes produced one centre record and 124 personal bests between them on Saturday at Wonthaggi Little Athletics. It was an outstanding effort by the group as the grass was long and wet, making fast times difﬁcult to attain.

Under 8 girl Chloe Bramley is starting to carve out quite a reputation as a thrower with great potential. After breaking the shot put record last week, Chloe managed to throw the discus further than any other Under 8 girl in the 43-year history of the club. Just as impressive were the three athletes who attained an impressive four PBs from their five events on Saturday. Well done to Euan Connors (U8), Karla Williams (U8) and Declan Ryan (U12). U6 100m: girls: T. Ihomana-Montgomery 20.97, T. Wingfield 22.14, C. Dellamina 29.33. boys: S. Biggs 21.44, K. Burns 21.95, J. Garnham 22.39. Triple jump: girls: T. Ihomana-Montgomery 2.44, T. Wingfield 2.18. boys: K. Burns 2.52, J. McRae 2.33, S. Biggs 1.97. U7: 100m: girls: D. Loughridge 18.52, M. Stothart 19.90, J. Dobson 21.46. boys: J. Timmermans 20.10, H. Lindsay 22.10, L. Bramley 22.84. Triple jump: girls: D. Loughridge 3.76, M. Stothart 2.85. boys: L. Bramley 2.81, J. Timmermans 2.62, H.

Under 7 athletes (from left) Jacob Timmermans, Dallas Loughridge and Meghan Stothart battle it out in the 200 metres last week. Lindsay 2.60. U8: 100m: girls: I. Rooks 19.69, C. Bramley 19.96, K. Williams 20.73. boys: J. Garnham 17.84, M. McCaughan 18.50, A. Paxton 18.68. 400m: girls: C. Bramley 1.36.8, I. Rooks 1.40.9, K. Williams 1.51.7. boys: J. Garnham 1.36.1, A. Maxwell 1.36.6, M. McCaughan 1.36.8. 80m hurdles: girls: I. Rooks 19.83, C. Bramley 19.92, H. Maynard 20.93. boys: J. Garnham 18.02, m McCaughan 18.48, A. Paxton 19.38. Discus: girls: C. Bramley 14.31 (record), H. Maynard 8.17, M. Notley 7.42. boys: J. Garnham 16.62, M. McCaughan 14.47, A.

Maxwell 13.26. Triple jump: girls: C. Bramley 4.35, H. Maynard 3.90, M. Notley 3.61. boys: A. Maxwell 4.88, J. Garnham 4.74, A. Paxton 4.17. U9: 400m: girls: K. Allworth 1.38.3, L. McKenzie 1.45.2. boys: J. Anderson 1.31.3, L. Stothart 1.33.4, W. Clarkson 1.34.7. 70m: girls: K. Allworth 12.76, L. McKenzie 13.58. boys: L. Stothart 12.34, B. Wingﬁeld 12.70, J. Anderson 12.74. 80m hurdles: girls: K. Allworth 18.62, L. McKenzie 18.92. boys: L. Stothart 16.59, J. Connors 17.12, R. Pridham 17.86. Shot put: girls: K. Allworth 3.29, L. McKenzie 3.00. boys: L. Stothart 4.93, W. Speed 4.27,

R. Pridham 4.18. Triple jump: girls: L. McKenzie 4.13, K. Allworth 3.52. boys: R. Slade 5.29, B. Wingﬁeld 5.00, W. Speed 4.90. U10: 200m: girls: M. Notley 40.95, C. Fallaw 42.97, J. Rooks 44.44. boys: R. Sparkes 35.94, M. Jorgenson 36.07, M. Sellers 39.07. 400m: girls: M. Notley 1.33.6, C. Fallaw 1.41.7, J. Rooks 1.43.7. boys: R. Sparkes 1.22.7, M. Jorgenson 1.25.00, M. Sellers 1.27.7. 80m hurdles: girls: M. Notley 18.72, C. Fallaw 20.64, J. Rooks 20.97. boys: R. Sparkes 17.38, M. Jorgenson 18.18, M. Sellers 18.95. Discus: girls: M. Notley 12.05, C.

Fallaw 8.32, J. Rooks 7.93. boys: R. Sparkes 15.53, S. Williams 14.86, M. Jogenson 13.07. High jump: girls: M. Notley 0.90, J. Rooks 0.85, C. Fallaw 0.75. boys: R. Sparkes 1.15, M. Jorgenson 1.05, M. Peters 0.90. U11: 1500m: girls: C. Ryan 8.11.3, L. McNish 8.28.0, B. Lowe 9.40.0. boys: B. Anderson 5.56.2, B. Taylor 6.30.2, C. Thompson 7.14.8. 200m: girls: C. Ryan 35.70, L. McNish 44.09, B. Lowe 48.69. boys: B. Anderson 37.42, M. Fallaw 38.24, B. Taylor 39.83, 80m hurdles: C. Ryan 18.84, B. Lowe 20.21, L. McNish 20.48. boys: B. Anderson 17.11, M. Fallaw 17.44, C. Thompson 17.59. Long jump: girls: C. Ryan 2.91, O. Peterson 2.60, B. Lowe 2.50. boys: M. Fallaw 2.91, B. Anderson 2.75, C. Thompson 2.68. Shot put: girls: O. Peterson 4.59, L. McNish 4.50, B. Lowe 4.30. boys: M. Fallaw 7.03, B Anderson 6.01, B Taylor 4.99. U12: 100m: girls: K. Smith 17.69, S. Slade 18.11, G. Fillipi 18.20. boys: D. Ryan 16.16, C. Epifano 22.00. 400m: girls: K. Smith 1.29.4, K. Maxwell 1.36.4, A. Peterson 1.39.9. boys: D. Ryan 1.14.1, C. Epifano 2.01.2. 80m hurdles: girls: G. Fillipi and K Smith 20.28eq, A. Peterson 22.13. boys: D. Ryan 17.82. Shot put: girls: C. Teakle 8.01, K. Smith 5.41, S. Slade 5.28. boys: D. Ryan 7.13, C. Epifano 6.05. Triple jump: girls: S. Slade 6.94, K. Smith 6.46, C. Teakle 5.71cb. boys: D. Ryan 7.90, C. Epifano 4.63. U13: girls: 200m: J.

Dalton 33.92, T. Lowe 36.37, I. Langford 36.67. 400m: I. Langford 1.25.3, T. Lowe 1.28.9, J. Dalton 1.30.4. 80m hurdles: T. Lowe 18.48, J. Dalton 19.08, N. Davis 19.89. Discus: N. Davis 20.03, T. Lowe 15.39, I. Langford 13.89. high jump: J. Dalton 1.26, I. Langford 1.24, T. Lowe 1.15. boys: C. Hollins: 200m: 42.74, 400m: 1.45.5. 80m hurdles: 21.19. discus: 11.29. high jump:1.00. U14: girls: P. Epifano: 200m: 44.38. 400m: 2.16.8. 80m hurdles: 21.47. discus: 16.37. high jump: 1.05. U15: girls: 200m: Sandra Plumb 31.39, Sadie Plumb

32.12, S. Davis 40.42. 400m: Sadie Plumb 1.12.4, Sandra Plumb 1.21.1, S. Davis 1.31.1. 90m hurdles: S. Davis 20.40, Sadie Plumb 20.69, Sandra Plumb 21.00. Discus: S. Davis 23.77, Sadie Plumb 13.30, Sandra Plumb 12.98. High jump: S Davis 1.32, Sadie Plumb 1.22, Sandra Plumb 1.15. Next Saturday is the last meet before the Christmas break. Entries for the Junior Regional Carnival and the Regional Championships must be in by this Saturday. Late entries cannot be accepted.

PAGE 64 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

• A GRADE DIVISION ONE

Korumburra chasing outright

KORUMBURRA will be chasing an outright win against the Imperials this week, after already winning ﬁrst innings points.

The Cobras bowled out their Leongatha based rivals for just 88, with three bowlers taking three wickets each. They then went in with the bat and, although they were not hugely convincing, still managed to get to 7/117 before declaring. With 10 overs left in the day the Imps were forced to pad up again, and struggled to 2/10 at the end of the day’s play, still 19 runs behind Korumburra’s total. Poor start haunts Koony Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL had a horror start in their match with Nerrena on the weekend, losing two wickets before they had made their second run. It was almost a mirror image of Australia’s ﬁrst innings against England on Friday, with Sam Sperling bowled by Chris Rump, and Brayden Moscript run out early on. They steadied slightly afterwards with a nice knock from Shane Moore (42); but

lost wickets consistently before a big hitting innings from Jayden Peters (27) gave them some respect. Tim Wightman (3/61) and Josh Trease (3/24) were the pick of the Red Cap bowlers. Good start for OMK Consistent contributions from OMK’s batsmen have helped them to a healthy score in their match with the Workmens on the weekend. Diggers skipper Jason Wilson (69) was the best with the bat for OMK, while the Workers’ Gav Bolding (2/32) was the best bowler. The Workers will be chasing 9/240 at the Butch West Oval in Wonthaggi this Saturday. Evenly poised Inverloch’s match with the Wonthaggi Miners is set to be a close one, with the Stingrays chasing 198 for victory at the Inverloch Turf this week. Matt Donohue (25) and Josh Andrighetto (63) got the Miners off to a good start, but a steady ﬂow of wickets afterwards did not let them get too far away. INVERLOCH v WONTHAGGI MINERS Wonthaggi Miners 1st innings M. Donohue c. J. Smith b. A. Hall .................................25

Nice hit: Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL’s Shane Moore gets bat to ball. J. Andrighetto c. W. Taberner b. A. Hall ..................................63 A. Donohue r.o. .........................19 P. Jordan c&b. N. Cant ..............29 J. O’Reilly c. B. Nicholls b. J. Smith ................................. 7 K. Smith c. L. Cummins b. N. Cant ................................20 M. Kremmer b. J. Smith .............. 7 J. Piasente n.o. ...........................10 D. Foon c. W. Rankin b. J. Smith ................................. 1 R. Thomas n.o.............................. 2 Extras .........................................14 Total......................................8/197

Bowling: N. Cant 2/62, J. Smith 3/46, A. Hall 2/36, B. Nicholls 0/26, J. Courtenay 0/24. WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v OMK OMK 1st innings A. Miller c. D. Brann b. G. Bolding .........................39 D. Creed c. G. Britt b. R. Thomas............................. 4 A. Rose c. D. Brann b. G. Britt ................................25 J. Wilson c. G. Bodling b. G. Britt ................................69

• A GRADE DIVISION TWO

Low scoring affair at Fish Creek MDU and Fish Creek are locked in a tight battle on the Fishy turf wicket.

MDU batted ﬁrst and made just 73 runs before being bowled out. Brett Spokes (30) was the only batsman to score double ﬁgures. Fish Creek’s innings was not any easier, as they struggled to 8/59 at the end of the day’s play. Their top scorer Blake Anderson (16*) is still at the crease with Daniel Britton (5*).

Nestor’s seven shakes Foster

POOWONG Loch bowler Kurt Nestor took seven wickets in his side’s match with Foster at the weekend to ﬁnish with 7/35. Gary Wagstaff (22) and skipper Murray Lynch (26) were Foster’s best batsmen, and the only two to score double ﬁgures. Foster were all out for 81, and in response Poowong Loch are 3/44, already cruising to victory.

Ton for Oats ASHLEY Oats has scored a ton for Kilcunda Bass in their match with Phillip Island at the weekend. Oats single handedly led the side; he was the only batsman to make more than 11 runs as they were all out for 150. Phillip Island skipper Clint Wilson took 5/20

with the ball to be the main destroyer. In reply the Island are 1/15 overnight.

Washed out LEONGATHA Town’s clash with Glen Alvie was reduced to a one dayer to be played next week due to heavy rainfall on Friday night. The Glen Alvie ground was deemed unsafe for the match. FISH CREEK/TARWIN v MDU MDU 1st innings G. Logan c. ................................4 J. Sinclair c. ...............................2 B. Spokes c. .............................30 T. Harris c. .................................3 C. Hoober b. ..............................7 W. Prosser c. ..............................3 S. Arnup n.o. ..............................4 S. McRae c. ...............................0 M. Cantwell b. ...........................0 S. Browne r.o..............................2 C. Harris lbw. ............................1 Extras .......................................17 Total .........................................73 Bowling: M. Danckert 3/18, J. Danckert 4/18, N. Wilkins 1/11, D. Britton 1/3, J. Flanders 0/13. Fish Creek/Tarwin 1st innings M. Watkins lbw. b. M. Cantwell.......................12 G. Watkins c. B. Spokes b. T. Harris ..............................1 J. Law c. J. Sinclair b. T. Harris ..............................4 N. Wilkins lbw. b. T. Harris .......0 G. Webster lbw. b. S. McRae .....1 J. Danckert b. S. McRae.............2 J. Buckland b. S. McRae ............0 B. Anderson n.o........................16 M. Danckert stp. G. Logan b. S. Arnup ..............................9 D. Britton n.o. ............................5 Extras .........................................9 Total ......................................8/59 Bowling: M. Cantwell 1/19, T. Harris 3/5, S. McRae 3/14, W. Prosser 0/6, S. Arnup 1/13. PHILLIP ISLAND v KILCUNDA/BASS Kilcunda/Bass 1st innings P. Mohascy lbw. b. C. Wilson ..10 C. Davidson c&b. S. Boyack .....4 A. Oats c&b. E. Richards .......108

J. Brown b. C. Wilson ................6 A. Larcombe b. C. Wilson .........0 J. Dakin b. J. Emery ...................0 H. Grace lbw. b. C. Wilson ........3 D. Pipicelli c. A. Manteit b. S. Boyack ............................1 J. Mahood c. S. Boyack b. C. Wilson.............................0 J. Tregear stp. b. E. Richards ... 11 T. Stacey-Van Steensel n.o. ........0 Extras .........................................7 Total .......................................150 Bowling: A. Matthews 0/26, S. Boyack 2/19, C. Wilson 5/20, J. Emery 1/28, E. Richards 2/30, T. Hornsby 0/5, M. Francis 0/16. Phillip Island 1st innings J. Broomhall c. ..........................0 J. Emery n.o. ............................13 M. Francis n.o. ...........................2 Total ......................................1/15 Bowling: D. Pipicelli 0/11, T. Stacey-Van Steensel 1/4. FOSTER v POOWONG/LOCH Foster 1st innings G. Wagstaff stp. P. Dyer b. K .Nestor ...........................22 B. Coates lbw. b. J. Poynton ......5 M. Lynch c. R. Greaves b. K .Nestor ...........................26 M. Dower c. G. Birnie b. K. Nestor .............................3 P. Dower c. C. Knox b. K. Nestor .............................0 L. Bromley b. R. Greaves ..........3 B. Busuttil c. M. Holloway b. K. Nestor .............................2 J. Prain stp. P. Dyer b. K. Nestor .............................8 S. Lanyon c. D. Brain b. K. Nestor .............................5 J. Prain c. G. Birnie b. S. Jenkins ............................2 J. Chaseling n.o. .........................0 Extras .........................................5 Total .........................................81 Bowling: R. Greaves 1/28, J. Poynton 1/3, D. Brain 0/3, C. Knox 0/2, K Nestor 7/35, S. Jenkins 1/4. Poowong/Loch 1st innings M. Adderley c&b. M. Dower .....6 C. Knox c. M. Lynch b. B. Coates .............................9 P. Dyer n.o. ..............................12 K. Nestor r.o. .............................9 M. Holloway n.o. .......................5 Extras .........................................3 Total ......................................3/44 Bowling: B. Coates 1/24, M. Dower 1/18. GLEN ALVIE v TOWN Results not available.

GCL selection THE team for round three against Warragul at Wonthaggi on Sunday, December 12 is: Jason Wilson (captain) OMK; Adam Eddy – Imps; Ryan Thomas – Workmens; Paul Dyer – Poowong/ Loch; Chris Rump – Nerrena; Tim Wightman – Nerrena; Udara Weerasinghe – Korumburra; Clint Wilson – Phillip Island; Lachie Sperling – Koonwarra/ RSL; Mitchell Clark – Nerrena; Daniel Jago – Town; Luke Rogers - Imps. Meet at Wonthaggi turf at 9.15am. Contact selectors Clive Salmon 0427 802 928 or Gary Sauvarin 0407 343 204. If unavailable. Kristian Gray – manager 0439 825 168.

LDCA Juniors Under 14s Foster 13/25 v Korumburra 4/62 (Tom Jenkin 12 ret. and 3/7, Liam Miller 8 ret, J. Celebrine 11 not out, C. Gibbs-King 3/0). Kilcunda/ Bass 90 (Robbie Taylor 9, Kane Condick 27 n.o, N. Newsome 7; Max Homer 3/4, Ethan Senior 2/10, Darcy Brosnan 1/4, Ella Cargil 1/2, Angus Brown 1/7, Todd Smith 1/5, Finn Homer 1/14 lt Wonthaggi Miners 97 (Max Homer 21, Todd Smith 12, Luke Hamilton 6 n.o; N. Newsome 1/8, Kane Condick 3/7, Ethan Garrat 1/9, S. Casey 1/10).

So close: Graham Sperling is unable to convert his hit to runs for Koonwarra/ Leongatha RSL. K. Rothier b. G. Bolding ............ 2 J. Van Rooye c. G. Britt b. J. Sherrin ............................... 8 N. Creed c. D. Brann b. L. McGuirk .........................44 B. Wyatt c. L. McGuirk b. R. Thomas...........................27 S. Checkley r.o. ........................... 3 D. McMeekin n.o......................... 2 P. Dell n.o..................................... 3 Extras .........................................14 Total......................................9/240 Bowling: R. Thomas 2/47, L. McGuirk 1/25, G. Britt 2/51, S. Williams 0/16, J. Sherrin 1/60, G. Bolding 2/32. KOONWARRA LEONGATHA RSL v NERRENA Koonwarra Leongatha RSL 1st innings B. Moscript r.o. ............................ 1 S. Sperling b. C. Rump................ 0 L. Sperling c. D. Baldi b. J. Trease ..............................15 S. Moore c. C. Friebe b. T. Wightman .......................42 G. Sperling c. D. Symmons b. Z. Trease .............................18 T. Gordon c. C. Friebe b. T. Wightman ......................... 0 B. Anderson c. T. Wightman b. C. Rump ................................ 9 B. Thomas c. D. Symmons b. T. Wightman ......................... 7

N. Grimes b. J. Trease ...............23 B. Davison n.o. ............................ 3 J. Peters c. D. Symmons b. J. Trease ..............................27 Extras ........................................... 9 Total.........................................154 Bowling: C. Rump 2/40, J. Trease 3/24, R. Clark 0/15, Z. Trease 1/8, T. Wightman 3/61, D. Symmons 0/2. KORUMBURRA v IMPERIALS Imperials 1st innings G. Sauvarin c. U. Weerasinghe b. K. Dorman ............................ 9 L. Ballagh c. K. Rigby b. K. Dorman ............................ 0 T. Willaims b. D. Wyhoon ........... 0 L. Rogers c. U. Weerasinghe b. K. Dorman ............................ 0 M. Adkins b. M. Olden..............10 M. Elliott c. U. Weerasinghe b. M. Olden ............................20 M. Lafferty c&b. U .Weerasinghe..............16 N. Eddy c. D. Wyhoon b. M. Olden .............................15 K .Gray lbw. b. U. Weerasinghe..................... 3 A. Eddy c&b. U. Weerasinghe .... 8 A. Meyer n.o. ............................... 2 Extras ........................................... 5 Total...........................................88 Bowling: K. Dorman 3/27, D.

GCL Under 16s THE team is as follows for the LDCA cricket match against Sale/Maffra at 10.15 am on Sunday, December 12 at Fish Creek Turf Cricket Ground. Thomas Wyatt, OMK; Jake Cochrane, OMK; Eli Richards, Phillip Island; Michael Manteit, Phillip Island; Cam Harris, MDU; Ryan Olden, MDU; Jacob Dakin, Kilcunda/Bass; Ben

Foon, Miners; Daniel Britton, Fish Creek; Royston McGavin, Imperials; Max Francis, Phillip Island; Paul Pattison, Korumburra. Emergencies: Nick Moore, Town; Nathan Allen, Korumburra; Trent Hamilton, Miners; James Sherrin, Workmens. Players are to be at the ground by 9.30am. If unavailable, please contact Geoff Wyatt on 56598225 by Thursday night.

Wyhoon 1/13, M. Olden 3/34, U. Weerasinghe 3/8, I. Osman 0/4. Korumburra 1st innings I. Osman c. T. Williams b. M. Elliott .............................32 K. Rigby c. N. Eddy b. A. Eddy ...............................21 J. Cook lbw. b. M. Elliott ..........20 U. Weerasinghe b. M. Elliott ....... 9 P. Edwards c. T. Williams b. M. Elliott ..............................20 L. Roberts c. K .Gray b. M. Elliott ............................... 2 M. Olden n.o. ............................... 8 D. Wyhoon r.o.............................. 0 K. Dorman n.o. ............................ 1 Extras ........................................... 4 Total......................................7/117 Bowling: A. Eddy 1/44, L. Rogers 0/7, M. Elliott 5/27, M Lafferty 0/36. Imperials 2nd innings G. Sauvarin n.o. ........................... 3 A. Meyer c. K. Dorman b. D. Soctt ................................. 0 T. Williams c&b. K. Dorman ...... 3 Extras ........................................... 4 Total........................................2/10 Bowling: K. Dorman 1/1, D. Wyhoon 0/1, D. Scott 1/4.

Central Gippsland Cricket

TRUenergy Yallourn Cup: Morwell 173 (M. Cukier 72; D. Banks 5/25, J. O’Loughlin 2/13, J. Grande 2/51) v Mirboo North 1/20 (M. Moffatt 2/6). CGCA 2nd Grade: Mirboo North 8/230 d Thorpdale 73. CGCA 3rd Grade: Mirboo North 100 (S. Rennie 5/29, A. Mayes 3/43) lt Moe 7/138 (S. Rennie 53, G. Clerks 25). CGCA Colts Division: St. Vincents 0 lt Mirboo North 0/1.

LDCA players for January carnival Leongatha and district cricket association is well represented in the Gippsland teams for the Commonwealth Bank Victorian Carnivals in January.

Unders 18 Mitchell Clark, Nerrena; Lachie Sperling, Koonwarra RSL; Alex Manteit, Phillip Island; Tom Gordon, Koonwarra RSL; Matt Wilcocks, Town; James Sherrin Workmens. Emergency: Mitch Thomas,

Workmens.

Under 16 Eli Richards, Phillip Island; Thomas Wyatt, OMK.

Under 14 Jacob Thomas, Workmens; Daniel Turton, Workmens.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 65

Smooth style: Tom Fletcher ﬁnds the ball to put runs on Foster’s board during the Under 16 match against Korumburra at Korumburra.

In form: Korumburra bowler, Jarryd Scott, demonstrates ﬁne technique, as Foster’s Jarrod Richer looks on.

Watching intently: Korumburra wicket-keeper Bailey Condoluci awaits the ball, ﬂanked by Nathan Allen and Foster ﬁll-in Paul Patterson.

.LDCA B GRADE DIVISION ONE

Brann, Harvey smash tons WONTHAGGI Workmens bats Craig Harvey and Steven Brann smashed centuries in a 205 run partnership between the pair. Opener Brann scored exactly 100 opening for Workers including seven 4s and one 6. First drop Harvey, a big hitter, then belted the highest score of the day on Saturday, 134, which included 18 fours and 3 sixes. Workers ended the day 9/353 against OMK.

Darren Beesey hit 106 for Wonthaggi Miners against Inverloch but this was about the only shining light in the innings as Miners fell for just 181. Inverloch at 5/66 at stumps could struggle to get the runs here. Phillip Island was put into bat by Nerrena and made a competitive 9/197. Opener Russell Cleeland was run out on a ﬁne score of 93. In the ﬁnal game the Imperials’ Sam Vagg scored 75 as the Imps made 205 against Glen Alvie.

NERRENA v PHILLIP ISLAND Phillip Island 1st innings R. Cleeland r.o. ..................... 93 P. Colla c. ............................. 27 A. Finalyson c. ....................... 8 M. Haringsma c. .................... 3 C. O’Neill b. ........................ 18 P. Cashman c. ....................... 18 J. Manning n.o. ..................... 16 B. Johnston c. ......................... 2 J. Sorarti c. ............................. 3 J. Blackwell r.o. ...................... 2 Extras ...................................... 7 Total ................................ 9/197 Bowling: B. Croatto 3/42, C. Eva 1/48, J. Holloway 0/18, B. Castles 1/19, A. Trotto 0/19, W. Telfer 0/8, B. Standﬁeld 2/31, D. Trotman 0/8. WONTHAGGI MINERS v INVERLOCH Wonthaggi Miners 1st innings S. Webster r.o. ...................... 23 T. Latham r.o. .......................... 3

P. Hammer c. L. Sharrock b. A. Brayley ........................ 2 D. Beesey c. L. Gale b. J. Muir ......................... 106 J. Honeysett r.o. ...................... 0 J. Armstrong c. A. Brayley b. J. Muir ............................. 7 P. Cornelis c. J. Muir b. W. Holmes ..................... 11 S. Kaposvari b. W. Holmes ..... 8 S. Mullin b. W. Holmes ........... 1 P. Owen n.o. .......................... 11 T. Walker lbw. b. A. Brayley ... 0 Extras .................................... 10 Total ................................... 181 Bowling: W. Holmes 3/53, A. Brayley 2/44, J. Muir 2/42, L. Gale 0/36. Inverloch 1st innings J. Muir b. J. Armstrong ........... 4 B. Phillips b. D. Beesey ........ 21 J. Belli c&b. D. Beesey ........... 0 L. Sharrock n.o. .................... 20 L. Gale c&b. J. Armstrong ...... 1 S. Saldanha lbw. J. Armstrong . 0

W. Holmes n.o....................... 11 Extras ...................................... 9 Total .................................. 5/66 Bowling: D. Beesey 2/20, J. Armstrong 3/35, P. Owen 0/2, P. Cornelis 0/2. WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v OMK Wonthaggi Workmens 1st innings S. Huitema lbw. b. J. Paterson . 5 S. Brann r.o. ........................ 100 C. Harvey c. T. Wyatt b. J. Paterson .................... 136 D. Dutchman b. J. Cockrane.. 24 L. Sawyer c. B. Maguire b. K Kerr ............................ 31 J. Liddle c. T. Miller b. R. White ......................... 16 M. McCall c. J. Cochrane b. B. Maguire ....................... 5 T. Harley c. J. Cockrane b. K. Kerr ........................... 12 S. Roche n.o. ........................... 4 A. Sartori c&b. R. White ......... 6

M. Sharp n.o. .......................... 0 Extras .................................... 14 Total ................................ 9/353 Bowling: J. Cochrane 1/49, J. Paterson 2/54, R. Wihte 2/57, T. Wyatt 0/45, B. Maguire 1/55, K. Kerr 2/46, R. Quaife 0/41. IMPERIALS v GLEN ALVIE Imperials 1st innings N. Slater r.o. ............................ 7 A. Pellin c. D. Jagoe b. D. Gilbert ....................... 17 A. Hosking c. W. Luke b. A. McBride .................... 13 S. Vagg c. A. McBride b D. Jagoe .......................... 75 J. Forrester b. S. Nip=pers....... 7 R. McGavin c. L .Gennicarro b. D. Jagoe ......................... 29 S. McLennan c. B. Tiley b. S. Nippers ........................ 6 B. Davidson c L. Gennicarro b. W. Luke ......................... 17 R. Higgins c. A. McBride b. W. Luke............................ 9

G. Forrester n.o. ...................... 0 M. O’Loughlin c. M. Wright b. D. Williams ...................... 2 Extras .................................... 23 Total ................................... 205 Bowling: W. Luke 2/38, S. Nippers 2/43, D. Gilbert 1/13, L. Gennicarro 0/25, D. Jagoe 2/38, A. McBride 1/16, D. Williams 1/21. Glen Alvie 1st innings M. Wright n.o. ......................... 2 A. Hamilton n.o. ..................... 3 Extras ...................................... 2 Total .................................... 0/7 Bowling: S. McLennan 0/0, R. McGavin 0/2, G. Forrester 0/4, R. Higgins 0/0.

.LDCA B GRADE DIVISION TWO

Michael Patching delivers with 8/11 KORUMBURRA postie and part-time cricketer, Michael Patching, delivered the mail when he took a brilliant 8/11 for the Cobras against Kilcunda/Bass on Saturday. Patching, who has opened the bowling for A Grade, bowled out the top seven bats, in the process taking four wickets while the Killy/Bass score was stranded on ﬁve. Patching bowls left arm medium pacers but almost always bowls good line and length, rarely bowling down a loose one. Killy/Bass was bowled out for just 30. In reply Korumburra is 7/145 with the match well and truly parcelled up. Leongatha Town’s Steven Fixter made 109 in the Scorpions’ ﬁne total of 241 against close rivals Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL. With Eamon Charles bowling superbly for the Cougars, taking 5/90, it was up to Fixter to steady

the ship. He did this with a patient middle order knock which included 14 fours and one 6. Fixter eventually fell to Charles but not before he had pushed the total beyond 200. Matthew Olden claimed 4/23 for MDU as Fish Creek was bundled out for just 128. MDU is 0/16 at stumps. In the ﬁnal match Poowong/Loch won the toss and batted ﬁrst and hit a score of 8/210. Top score was recorded by Steven Poynton with 61. The match against OMK is evenly poised. FISH CREEK/TARWIN v MDU Fish Creek/Tarwin 1st innings G. Buckland c. L. Mercer b. R. Olden ............................25 J. Stefani r.o..............................19 J. Spokes c. M .Martin b. R. Olden ...............................4 J. Pouw c. A. Baillie b. L. Mercer...........................18 W. Cocksedge r.o. ....................13 M. Bright b. .............................14 B. Roberts c. ..............................4 S. Emmanuel b. .........................4 T. Smith lbw. b. C. Le Page .......3 T. Stybosh b. ..............................2 C. Pratt n.o. ................................0 Extras .......................................22 Total .......................................128

Bowling: T. Zukovskis 0/34, L. Mercer 1/14, N. Hill 0/14, M. Olden 4/23, S. Riley 0/10, R. Odlen 2/5, C. Le Page 1/16. MDU 1st innings D. Jones n.o ................................2 R. Olden n.o. ..............................3 Extras ....................................... 11 Total ......................................0/16 Bowling: S. Emmanuel 0/7, J. Spokes 0/6, B. Roberts 0/1. KILCUNDA/BASS v KORUMBURRA Kilcunda/Bass 1st innings A. Blackney b. M. Patching .......4 S. Blake c. J. Richards b. M. Patching .........................0 D. Clay lbw. b. M. Patching .......0 S. Tapscott b. M. Patching .........0 G. Burchell c. T. Allen b. M. Patching .........................0 E. Garratt b. M. Patching ...........1 R. Duff b. M. Patching ...............2 D. Petrie b. D. James..................1

T. Hunt b. D. James ...................8 L. Petrie n.o. ...............................3 N. Arney b. M. Patching ............1 Extras .......................................10 Total .........................................30 Bowling: A. Meade 0/9, M. Patching 8/11, H. James 0/9. Korumburra 1st innings A. McKinnon lbw. b. R. Duff ....0 R. Webster lbw. b. S. Blake........5 J. Richards b. R. Duff...............10 J. Turnbull c. N. Arney b. A. Blackney .......................40 T. Allen c. G. Burchell b. A. Blackney ......................42 J. Meade c. S. Tapscott b. D. Clay ..............................26 H. James b. D. Clay ...................4 M. Patching n.o. .........................8 D. James n.o. ..............................3 Extras .........................................7 Total ....................................7/145 Bowling: S. Blake 1/27, R. Duff 2/30, A. Blackney 2/23, S.

Under 16 East

8/179 v Glen Alvie. Match abandoned. Phillip Island 7/212 d Poowong/Loch 6/82 (B. Young 2/11, D. Downward 2/16), 2nd innings 3/83 (J. Reid 33, T. Lancaster n.o. 25; J. Black 2/18). Kilcunda/Bass 7/203 d Inverloch 8/145 (B. Barron 29, MacKay 30). OMK 9/90 lt Wonthaggi Workmens 277 (J. Thomas n.o. 78; J. Cochrane 2/45, T. Wyatt 4/47).

Imperials 9/107 lt MDU 139 (R. Odlen 72, C. Harris 30; B. Wylie 2/18, J. Sorrell 3/6, J. Van Dyk 3/11). Korumburra 6/207 d Foster 5/126 (J. Richer n.o. 68; P. Patterson 2/28). Fish Creek/Tarwin 9/104, 2nd innings 4/17 d Koonwarra RSL 8/76 (J. Flanders 2/7, G. Staley 2/11).

Under 16 West Wonthaggi

Miners

Tapscott 0/13, N. Arney 0/33, D. Clay 2/12, L. Petrie 0/9. POOWONG/LOCH v OMK Poowong/Loch 1st innings S. Dinger c. G. Lomagno b. W. Dowell ...........................3 C. Fraser c. G. Lomagno b. L Lamers ...........................27 S. Poynton c. T. Knox b. G. Adams...........................61 N. Hancock c. P. Miller b. J. Havetta...........................14 D. Thomas c. C. Walker b. J. Havetta............................30 G. Poynton c P Miller b. A. Harrison ........................18 T. Carns c. W. Dowell

b. J. Havetta........................... 11 R. Knox n.o. ...............................9 M. Hancock c. G. Knox b. G. Adams........................... 11 R. Humphrey n.o.. ......................5 Extras .......................................20 Total ....................................8/210 Bowling: G. Lomagno 0/21, W. Dowell 1/24, G. Adams 2/27, J. Havetta 3/45, L. Lamers 1/23, A. Harrison 1/37, G. Knox 0/26. TOWN v KOONWARRA RSL Town 1st innings B. Moore c. L. Enter b. E. Charles ..........................33 I. Hanks c&b. D. Kruse..............3

W. Turner c. R. Jeremiah b. E. Charles ..........................29 I. McCallum b. E. Charles .........7 S. Fixter c. D. Kruse b. E. Charles ........................109 J. Burge lbw. b. E. Charles .........0 M. Craig c. D. Pearce b. D. Kruse ..............................7 D. Goss r.o..................................0 B. Berry b. T. Davison .............20 S. Clark n.o. ...............................5 Extras .......................................28 Total .......................................241 Bowling: T. Davison 1/29, S. Turner 0/30, D. Kruse 2/28, R. Jeremiah 0/41 E. Charles 5/90, J. Moore 0/12.

C Grade Division 1

lip Island. No results available. Koonwarra RSL 9/116 (L. Hughes n.o. 36; L. McRae 3/17, J. Hamilton 2/30, P. Palmer 2/26) v Glen Alvie. MDU 9/206 (G. Jones 69, D. Tuckett 51, A. Kaushik n.o. 15; D. Eddy 2/29, J. Bourke 3/22; B. Wright 2/15) v Imperials. Town lost on forfeit OMK. Wonthaggi Workmens 97 (M. Turton 30, J. Bolding 30; J. Dakin 4/27) v Kilcunda/Bass 7/99 (S. VanSteensel 50, R. Shepherd n.o. 18; S. Knight 3/30).

LDCA ladders

Inverloch 171 (D. Jones 50; J. Hoy 3/36, G. Wightman 5/40) v Nerrena 20 (D. Jones 6/7, J. Jackson 3/11). Wonthaggi Miners 87 (P. Loos 36; S. Hall 4/23; D. Isgro 3/24, G. Barrett 3/6) v Korumburra 6/67 (R. Jones 2/27). Wonthaggi Workmens v Foster. No results available. Town 5/206 (M. Warren 69, K. Fleming 43, C. Dowling n.o. 27; E. Docherty 2/46, B. Young 2/27) v Phillip Island.

C Grade Division 2 Poowong/Loch v Phil-

Under 16 East

Town .......................42.90 Koonwrra RSL ......37.19 Korumburra ..........32.81 Fish Creek/Tarwin 32.67 MDU .......................30.27 Foster.......................19.36 Imperials ...................6.68 Under 16 West Phillip Island..........61.21 OMK.......................47.70 Won Workmens .....39.66 Won Miners ...........35.97 Kilcunda/Bass .........34.10 Glen Alvie ...............25.51 Poowong/Loch ........12.76 Inverloch ...................9.02

PAGE 66 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

McLaren’s Island success KRIS McLaren and team-mate Nicholas Waters placed fourth in Sunday’s Bel-Ray Six hour Australian Endurance Championship race at Phillip Island.

Fresh from his success at the Australian Superbike presentation night in Melbourne recently, when he picked up some prestigious awards, it appears McLaren is now on a winning streak. The world class Phillip Island circuit served up an exciting weekend of racing, with Leongatha’s McLaren and partner Waters of Mildura enjoying great success for their Ankermann Motorsports Honda team with a win in the Superstock 1000cc class and a very impressive fourth overall in the championship. Well known riders Josh Brookes and Wayne Maxwell won the event. Mrs McLaren said the boys did a top job and the whole team did a top job and “everyone gave 120 per cent all weekend. The six hour endurance race weekend saw qualifying on Friday and Saturday and the big race on Sunday. McLaren and Waters put in about three hours each on the bike to complete 209 laps and ended up only seven laps behind the winners. Mrs McLaren said they were right up there and the whole team was thrilled with the result. McLaren now has his sights set on the ﬁrst round of the World Superbikes on Phillip Island on February 25 to 27 and is feeling conﬁdent he is well acquainted with the track after competing in the weekend’s endurance championship. 2010 Bel-Ray six hour Australian Endurance Championship race results: 1. Demolition Plus Gas Honda 2. Team Honda Racing 3. Team Suzuki 4. Ankermann Motorsports Honda 5. Racers Edge Suzuki 6. Pioneer Tanks 7. Team Cessnock 8. Triumph Austalia 9. SW Racing 10. TSA Metal

Alberton ﬁxture revealed

ALBERTON Football League’s 2011 fixture was unveiled following their AGM last week. The 20 round fixture will feature a special Easter round, with games on the Saturday and Sunday. The finals will begin on August 20, and conclude with the grand final on September 10. This year’s premier Foster will unveil their flag at home against Yarram in round one next year. Rivals Stony Creek and MDU will face off in what will be the most anticipated match of the first round.

Sunshine state bridge success TWO South Gippslanders have won the 2010 Grand National Open Teams pairs bridge event in the Gold Coast last month. Colin Manley and Jack Kuiper were announced as the winners of the country section, which was a huge thrill for the Eastern Region Bridge Association representatives at the event. Then Colin and Jack were announced as the overall winners, taking out the title against 98 pairs from all over Australia, which was a tremendous achievement for the pair from South Gippsland. The extremely prestigious event for bridge players was held at the Gold Coast on November 27 to 30. On Friday and Saturday a teams event - the Grand National Open Teams - involving 64 teams from all over Australia who

had to win their way through club heats and regional finals was held, followed by a pairs event on Sunday, November 29. Gippsland 1, comprising Colin Manley, Jack Kuiper, John Sutton, Dina Drury and John Sullivan, representing the Eastern Region Bridge Association and from the South Gippsland Bridge Club, contested the teams’ event and finished with a creditable five wins at the completion of the two days of play. On Sunday, players were invited to enter into the 2010 GNOT pairs. Melbourne went on to play Adelaide in the grand final of the teams event, which was won by Adelaide. However, the Melbourne team was made up of four young men in their early 20s and the future for them in the bridge world will be exciting.

Well done: Colin Manley and Jack Kuiper with the cup they won as overall winners of the 2010 GNOT pairs.

Wilson’s horseriding show high By Tessa Hayward JEMIMA Wilson, of Leongatha South, got her ﬁrst horse when she was 10; little did she know she would still be riding 14 years on.

Flying leap: Jemima Wilson and her horse PKs Outlaw cleared the jump easily.

Jemima recently competed in the Dandenong Show and took out first prize in the Somerville Page Bros Caravan Table C. The height of the jumps was 1.2 metres and the horse which jumped them was PKs Outlaw. Jemima took two horses to the show, PKs Outlaw and a younger horse she was training up. PKs Outlaw was bought by the Wilson family when he was five years old, he is now 16. “I have three horses, however PK is my main horse,” Jemima said. Jemima grew up with horses as her mother, Ellen Wilson, used to compete in show jumping. The horse show jumping season started in August and will finish about June. “I compete nearly every weekend, there is always something

on,” she said. “We have a couple of months off in the middle of the year to give the horses and ourselves a rest.” Jemima limits herself to only travelling around Victoria, as it gets too hard and far otherwise. The highest Jemima has jumped was 1.50-1.55 metres at the Royal Melbourne Show on PKs Outlaw. In 2009, Jemima opened the jumping program at the Dandenong Show by winning the Eddy Batur Industrial Painting D Grade, riding Ciao Bella Jaguar. Jemima won the C and D Grade qualiﬁer and the Herb and Ada Shandley Memorial Ladies Jump trophy at the Leongatha Show in 2007, riding PKs Outlaw. Jemima said she is going to keep on show jumping: “I have done it for this long; I’m not going to give up now. “It is more than just travelling around for show jumping events, it is a social thing as well,” she said. Jemima said there is always a group of them that gets together at each event.

Superior team: Jemima Wilson and her horse PKs Outlaw.

Mary Mac girls get going By Tessa Hayward YEAR 7 to 9 students at Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College participated in an introduction to the Triple G: Girls Get Going sports program on Friday, November 26. Mary MacKillop was one of eight schools in regional Victoria to join forces with the University of Ballarat and Victoria University to promote participation by girls in sport and physical activity. “The program will start during the 2011 school year in physical education classes and after school by local sports clubs,” Triple G project manager Meghan Casey said. She said the students will have six sessions at school and then an after school program. “It will focus on the sports of tennis, football (soccer) and various YMCA circuit training sports,” Ms Casey said. These sports were chosen as they are lifelong activities. “People can do them for the rest of their life,” she said. In July 2009, the school of human movement and sport sciences and the school of education at the University of Ballarat were awarded a three year research grant. The grant was given by the Australian

Boxing: Mary MacKillop students Madeline Mallia, Grace Keogh, Josie Caile, Stephanie Kolb and Laura Sexton participated. Research Council to promote participation in sport and physical activity among adolescent girls. “This is an exciting and innovative project that aims to work with girls, physical education teachers and community sport and recreation organisers to ﬁnd ways to better link school physical education with community sport and recreation,” Professor Warren Payne of the school of human movement and sport sciences said. The school of human movement and

sport sciences has now designed the program and lesson plans to be introduced in 2011. “Year 7 to 9 female students were chosen to target, as teachers and sports clubs noticed the decline of girls in that age group in activities,” Ms Casey said. Ms Casey said the response to the program has been really positive, from students and sports clubs. “Students have had smiles on their faces and looked like they really enjoyed it,” she said.

Bairnsdale into Gippsland League THE BAIRNSDALE Football Netball Club was formally accepted into the Gippsland League at the Annual General Meeting of the league. Bairnsdale’s inclusion brings the number of clubs in the league to 10 for the first time since 1988. It will mean a large travel for the Leongatha and Wonthaggi teams, who will be forced to make a two hour trip in order to play the away game. Bairnsdale will field Senior, Under 18 and Under 16 football teams and as many as five grades of netball. The Gippsland League also instituted a Board of Management to oversee the running of the league, replacing the Executive and Delegate system that had been in place. The league continues its reputation of innovation with the draw soon to be released featuring Saturday afternoon, twilight and night matches as well as many Sunday matches which will showcase the standard of major league football in this region.

McNiven in third LEONGATHA’S Peter McNiven finished third in the 2010 Hertz Mini Challenge series. He also finished third in round seven of the challenge at Sydney on the weekend. He finished second in the final two races of the season.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010 - PAGE 67

Wightman takes first place Rec irrigation revamp By Tessa Hayward

LEONGATHA’S Recreation Reserve is currently having its irrigation system revamped.

NEWLY named Wightman house took out ﬁrst place at Leongatha Primary School’s junior athletics day last Wednesday. Held at the velodrome, students participated in baton relays, discus, high jump, long jump and an obstacle course. “The kids really enjoyed participating, it was a lovely day,” teacher Wendy Caple said. Wightman house was named after physical education teacher Murray Wightman following his retirement earlier this year. This is the ﬁrst win for Wightman house since the name change.

First place: Herrald raced ahead to win the baton relay.

Active fun: Junior students competed in the obstacle challenge.

Right: Flying high: A Strzelecki student uses all his energy to jump over the high jump rope.

Leongatha squash ALHOUGH numbers were down, those who attended the grand ﬁnal were treated to some great squash. A Grade results were Craig Chadwick’s Jelly Beans 3-9-110 to Tony Goldie’s Witcheties 1-6-101. B Grade results were Rob Gale’s Swans 2-9-97 to Geoff Franklands’s Tigers 2-6-89. Highest points winners for the season went to Mike Westaway in A Grade and Matt Borschman in B Grade.

The new structure, funded by the South Gippsland Shire Council along with State Recreation Victoria, will be fully automated and much more efﬁcient. Trenches have been dug every couple of metres along the ground, with drainage and irrigation to go down inside them. “This is a major project, and will keep this ground in good stead well into the future,” said Phil Poulton, one of many working on the development. “We’ve had some very skilled workers labouring for free. A huge thank you goes

to Dave Rounds, John Clark, Neil Thompson, Danny Hickey, Louis Castagna and Dave Rosser, and also many more.” More than 2km worth of drainage pipes are being used, and sprinklers will be ﬁtted in as well. They will sit just below the surface, and will be covered, meaning there will be no concern for safety. It will mean that the oval will be closed for at least a few weeks, and cricket will not be able to be played until well after Christmas. But those working on the drainage system believe it is a small price to pay for the future sake of the ground.

Hard workers: many people have put time and effort into the program, including Phil Poulton, Mick Pellicano, Andrew Westaway and Barry Winkler.

A golden day at Stony Creek

MANY South Gippslanders took full advantage of ﬁne weather to enjoy the Stony Creek races on Saturday.

With new ownership, the competition is assured, and we look forward to a revitalised season next year. We welcome back all past players and encourage new players of all levels to come and have a go and join in the fun. Next season will include a racquetball competition along with all levels of squash including a day competition if there are enough numbers. If you’re interested in playing please call Tom Ryan, president, on 0409 613 664.

See story back page.

Festive atmosphere: socialising around ﬁne food were, front: Eunice Ayre of Yinnar, Toora holiday-maker Maureen Ramsay and Karen Bartram of Traralgon. Back: Dawn Allsop of Toora and Sue Harvey of Agnes.

Left Superb ride: jockey Rowan Waymouth brings the winner of race one, Gold Lining, into the yard.

A Grade: back; runners-up: Witcheties - Mike Westaway, Dave Blake, Con Privitera and Tony Goldie; front: winners - Jelly Beans - John Jones, Steve Fowkes, Mike Bracecamp and Craig Chadwick.

B Grade: back; runners-up: Tigers - Geoff Frankland, Bill Windsor, Jordan Bolge and Bob Wong; front; winners: Swans - Di Wood, Jaymes Wiggins, Greg Cripps and Rob Gale.

Fun time: race-goers from Mirboo North were, front: Melinda Hatterley, Luke Farington and Jake Farington. Back: Nigel Hatterley and Ken Tunbridge.

PAGE 68 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Marathon ride starts today

Glamorous ladies: enjoying the festivities at Stony Creek were Kaetche Park, Jane Park, Eliza Charlton, Teana Price, Tarnya Wilson, Sarah Price and Emily Wilson.

TODAY at 10am Inverloch’s Ken Shaw embarks on a 24 hour marathon bike ride. At 78, Ken is super fit and has been training for months in preparation for this charity ride. The ride will start and finish at the Rotary Centenary Park in Ramsay Street, Inverloch just below Holt Court. It finishes at 10am on Wednesday, December 8. The Rotary Club of Leongatha have been backing Ken’s charity ride and they will have a sausage sizzle around lunchtime and tea-time on the Tuesday. Rotarians at Inverloch will also be assisting. Ken’s meal breaks will also be held here as well as the odd massage Ken will need during the 24 hours of his ride. Members of Inverloch’s Coastal Cruisers cycling group have volunteered to ride with Ken so that he has company for the whole ride, including the middle of the night. The public is invited to come and cheer Ken along the route at any time. The route is Ramsay Boulevard between the Inverloch surf beach at one end and Broadbeach Holiday Park at the other. Rotary is unsure what the proceeds of the ride will go towards at this stage, but a suitable charity will be found. Businesses from both Leongatha and Inverloch have been approached for sponsorship and have been most generous. Drew Ginn has been in contact with Ken to make sure his training routine is on schedule. Drew is hoping to attend but an interstate conference may get in his way. Ken’s training has included riding 500-600 kms per week. His training has tapered now so he has enough in his legs to reach the targeted 400kms in 24 hours. Crossover Cycles in Wonthaggi has been most helpful in providing a bike and sponsored Ken’s clothing.

Right to go: Ken Shaw will today start his 24 hour marathon where he will try to clock up at least 400 kms.

Off and racing By Chris Brown ABOUT 1000 people enjoyed the start of the racing season at Stony Creek on Saturday. Great weather, good track condition and pleasing race results made the Christmas Party themed day a success. A highlight was the trifecta by Corinella owner Kevin O’Brien and trainer Ricky Maund with wins in race 1, 3 and 8. In race 1 Gold Lining won, in race 3 Sorisam and in race 8 Tango Express. Each horse had a different jockey. Mr O’Brien is a big supporter of the Stony Creek Racing Club. Stony Creek Racing Club CEO Ralph Gallagher said winning a treble of races was pretty ﬂash. “That’s the ﬁrst time in a long while that an owner has picked up three races on a day. It doesn’t happen often,” he said. The winning owners are given a DVD of the race and Mr O’Brien was apparently looking forward to reliving his success again at home that night. The feature race of the day, the Sarah Ashe Catering Class, pleased the punters as it was won

Lucky, lucky: Irish jockey Liam Keniry was at Stony Creek as part of a stint of racing in Australia, adding to his record of 600 wins in England. by favourite Spurlash in a tight ﬁnish. Mr Gallagher said the season opener was a terriﬁc event on an absolutely glorious day. “The track was in superb condition and had had the right amount of rain the previous day,” he said. The fertilising also helped. “Our new plastic running rail, which Racing Victoria was concerned to provide us, made the whole thing look quite spectacular,” Mr Gallagher said.

Crowd numbers were thought to be down slightly due to a wet week and forecast rain. The hospitality village, which is a collection of marquees and umbrellas people hire for the day, proved popular. Mr Gallagher said there were many more marquees than last year. “People have their own little bit of territory where they can relax and enjoy the races and weather,” he said. Face painting, an animal nursery and a jumping castle proved popular, with the children. Buses proved popular with double the number of people taking them to this race compared to last season. Buses go along the Korumburra/Leongatha route and from Venus Bay/Walkerville. Stony Creek Racing Club president Paul Boag said there was a handy crowd with excellent conditions. “Due to the great weather, everyone had a very pleasant day,” he said. The next race is on December 28 and marks the start of the summer tourist season in South Gippsland. The feature race is sponsored by Venus Bay Caravan Park and children’s entertainment will include a giant slide.