The Great Southern Star - December 8, 2009 by The Great Southern Star

Published at Leongatha for South Gippsland

36 McCartin Street, Leongatha 3953 PHONE: (03) 5662 2294, FAX: (03) 5662 4350 ACN 006 507 580 ABN 61 318 952 541 PRINT POST 336735 10006 Email - news@thestar.com.au advertising@thestar.com.au

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PAGES 38-41

The Great Southern

Star

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2009

INSIDE

PUBLISHED TUESDAY 64 PAGES

Zac and Bec beat the odds 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. But mother and son deﬁed the odds – only four other women in the world with the condition have given birth – and are thriving back in Korumburra. Read the full story on page 11.

Desal anger ...page 5

Real Estate ...page 29

Plot fear Hospital failures may be first step to closure

Festive Stony ...page 63

INDEX Column 7 ............ 10 Opinions ............. 12 Property Guide... 29 Kids’ Page .......... 35 Entertainment .... 42 Classiﬁeds.......... 50 Sport .............. 54-64

By Brad Lester THE State Government may be plotting to close the dilapidated Leongatha Memorial Hospital, two leading community groups fear. The hospital buildings and infrastructure recently failed to meet the standards of the Australian Council of Health Care Standards, prompting concerns the government could claim that failure is justiﬁcation to shut the hospital down. The Leongatha Progress Association and Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry raised their worries before a deputation representing Gippsland Southern Health Service, and South Gippsland Shire Council meets Victorian Health Minister Daniel Andrews this Thursday.

Before that meeting, a petition signed by 2700 South Gippsland residents calling for the government to fund a new hospital in Leongatha, will be tabled by Peter Ryan, Member for Gippsland South, in Parliament. In the wake of the accreditation results, progress association president Mick Flynn is suspicious the government may have a hidden agenda. “It would look like the Department of Health is planning to close down the hospital, because that is what they do with other health facilities that have accreditation issues,” he said. “It could be a fact the department wants to go down that track and by failing to provide that funding and provide that accreditation, it could be that they are trying to jam our hospital. Continued on page 7.

On the way: a petition calling for a new hospital in Leongatha was last Friday posted to Gippsland South MLA Peter Ryan, by Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, Darryl McGannon (left), and Leongatha Progress Association president, Mick Flynn.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Library gets radical By Danny Buttler

THE WORLD of Xbox style gaming has entered the local library – and everybody seems quite happy about it. The thought of having computer games in a public library would have seemed outrageous just a few years ago, but it now seems to have widespread acceptance. The Xbox, which can be used by library members, is located near the magazine racks and has already proved popular with, mostly, younger patrons. Xbox games available at

Leongatha library include Shrek III, soccer, tennis, “Blue Dragon”, racing games, basketball, and futuristic battle games. While some might think that The games would detract from the allure of books, West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation has installed them in the hope they will have the opposite effect. WGRLC Community Building Co-ordinator Fiona Mahomed said it was hoped that the Xbox would attract people to the library where they will enjoy the wider variety of activities and services on offer.

“We tend to find in reports that other libraries have done that you put (the Xbox) in any area near books and CDS or graphic novels, then you find they sit there and flick through them and often take them out in the end,” she said. “There are kids who come in to use the Xbox and while they are waiting to use it, look at other material as well.” Friends of Leongatha Library president, Sybil Smith said she and the “friends” were happy to finance the Xbox unit after talking to WGRLC staff. “While it is not the sort of thing I would use, it is bringing

young people into the library who would rarely enter through its door,” she said. “We were happy to provide the money because it was on the recommendation and request of the library.” Ms Smith said she recognised that the gaming console would not be approved by everyone, but thought it was for the greater good of the library. “I know probably not all people using the library are happy, but it is being used to get people through the door.” The Xbox was launched last Friday by Ms Smith and Cr Bob Newton.

Library lessons: Brendan Hawkins and Tim Wilkinson enjoy the new library Xbox at the launch last Friday.

Carbon document to be made public By Bert van Bedaf

ISSUES of controversy and conﬁdentiality were played at last Wednesday’s council meeting, when the rather obscure but intriguing topic of soil carbon sequestration was discussed. Council’s sustainability director, Andrew McEwen presented a document on the topic earmarked for submission to an inquiry into soil carbon sequestration by the Victoria’s Upper House, the Legislative Council.

Leongatha resident Wilma Western was concerned that council might be endorsing an “unexplained system”. Soil carbon sequestration is the process of transferring carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into the soil through crop residues and other organic solids, according to an Ohio State University research paper. “This transfer or “sequestering” of carbon helps off-set emissions from fossil fuel combustion and other carbon-emitting activities while enhancing soil quality and long-term agro-

nomic productivity.” Mrs Western observed that the council report (part of agenda) sounded generic and made no references to local agricultural conditions. She queried its authenticity. “It reads like a sales pitch, more like propaganda,” she concluded. Her comments made Mr McEwen visibly uncomfortable. Cr David Lewis added more fuel, claiming the draft submission “does not appear to have been done by one of our ofﬁcers. Looking through it, the extravagance of language does not (ap-

pear) to be ours,” Cr Lewis said. Mayor Jim Fawcett invited Cr Lewis to ask who had written it. “I wrote it,” Mr McEwen said, rising to the challenge. Also, Cr Lewis said, a cover on the draft submission read that “all information contained in this document is in conﬁdence and not available for release to open council” (the public). Cr David pointed out it contradicted the motion, which said because the submission “may be controversial in nature”; the purpose of it was “to add

to the community debate”. Cr Lewis called for the document to be made public. Council’s chief executive, Tim Tamlin said the issue was “complex and controversial in nature” and could cause disquiet “if it goes into the public arena”. Cr Fawcett also did not see the point of secrecy. “It is a journey we need to make”. Cr Lewis successfully added a third point to the motion that the “ﬁnal submission” (but not the draft document tabled before council) would be made available for public comment.

Building on Bair St CONSTRUCTION on a new building on the former site of Gleeson Motors in Bair Street Leongatha will commence early next year. South Gippsland Shire Council granted a permit for the building late last month. The four spaces in the new building will range from 358m2 to 490m2 with

frontages on Bair Street between 11m to 15m wide. Each lot can be divided in half to create two smaller tenancies. According to proponents council waived the parking requirements. There has been a strong interest in tenanting the building. Director of Elyte Focus, Pete Furlong was instrumental in the development of the building.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 3

RON Campbell (left) and Geoff Heide are looking for every spare hammer, drill, bench saw and shovel in South Gippsland. The Leongatha Lions are collecting tools for bushﬁre victims in Marysville. Their Lions counterparts in the destroyed town have established a tool library that offers locals everything from a rake to a ride-on-mower. Ron and Geoff reckon there are plenty of local sheds full of unused tools that would be gratefully accepted by those who have lost everything. See more details of the Lions project and how to donate on page 45.

Porn sting Jail for child porn By Matt Dunn FOSTER resident Hendricus de Graaf pleaded guilty to possessing hundreds of images of child pornography, when he faced the Wonthaggi Magistrates Court last Friday. De Graaf will serve three months in prison with a further three months suspended for a period of two years. He will be placed on the national sex offenders register for eight years. The self-employed painter and treasurer of the Foster Golf Club, was raided at his home by police on Wednesday, April 8, of this year. A computer was seized, and a number of portable hard drives were taken away for analysis. The father of two sat stony-faced as the charges were read against him. “Many people believe this is a victimless crime. People may see it’s you exercising what you see as a way of satisfying your own sexual gratiﬁcation in the privacy of your own home. That’s not the way the community at large sees this,” magistrate Eddie Batt told de Graaf. “The people who are making these images are destroying young lives.” Mr Batt told de Graff that many of the people who came to his court were the victims of child sexual abuse and the effects were devastating. De Graff’s lawyer told the court his client had done much work for the local community and he would return to the town to

“face the music”. Two character references were supplied to the court by members of the golf club. While The Star knew about the circumstances of the case, it was urged to keep quiet until the case went to trial. Wonthaggi Police’s Senior Constable Paul Burns was part of the sting. “We had those hard drives analysed, which showed there were about 200 images of child pornography and about 20 video files,” he said. Snr Const Burns could not talk about the scope of the police investigation, but only that de Graaf was caught in a net that has been cast far and wide. “It was part of a bigger operation, but it’s not something we can comment on. Basically it’s just information we’ve been given and we then, as far as our investigation goes, seize computers and have them analysed,” he said. “We executed a warrant on the man’s house, seized his computers and had it confirmed they had child pornography on them.” Police believe they are closer to making many more arrests as they explore the potential of software that tracks and indentifies the online communications of offenders. Simply put, the technology shows who is downloading child pornography. Despite having had access to the software for only a short time, police have already identified thousands of computers in Victoria that have

downloaded child pornography. The computer hits are placed against Google maps to help locate offenders. Head of the Sexual Crimes Squad, Detective Inspector Glen Davies, told The Star it could not estimate how many people were downloading images of child pornography in Victoria, but said: “There’s a fair prevalence of people involved in accessing and downloading images of child exploitation. “It’s not a new tool (the software), but it’s been used in Queensland fairly extensively and the US. We’ve just started using it now in Victoria and we’ve got plans to target specific areas, and we’ll be rolling that out in some planned operations fairly shortly,” he said. “It’s pretty definitive, evidentiarywise. It allows us to explore the issues further. We’ll take a search warrant and seize the materials and interview the suspects. It’s a really good lead in for us. “There’s various ways we can look at who suspects are communicating with. This tool will specifically pinpoint people who have downloaded specific images. There’s other methods we use to verify and put together a picture of who people are communicating with.” Det. Insp. Davies had a clear message for those who traded in child pornography online: “We’ve got extra tools now that help us locate it and if you’ve got the stuff on your computer you could find us knocking on your door.”

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Retiring teachers: Sheran Sanford, Gayle McHarg, Adele Prescott and Richard Ife will leave Leongatha Secondary College at the end of the year.

Last days By Chris Brown

FOUR long-serving Leongatha Secondary College teachers will put the whiteboard markers away at the end of term 4. They all joined the Leongatha Technical School in the 1980s after stints elsewhere. Gayle McHarg started there in 1981, Richard Ife (1982), Sheran Sanford (1983) and Adele Prescott (1984). These veteran teachers will miss the students as well as socialising with other staff. “And also never knowing what each day is going to bring,” Ms Sanford said. “It’s never boring,” Ms Prescott added. “That’s what makes it such a good job and a frustrating job to come to,” Ms Sanford continued. Some of the students they taught stay in their memory as the years pass. Ms Prescott remembers the students they succeeded with. “The ones that were real challenges and we succeeded and we didn’t lose them along the way, that’s the thing I’m most proud of,” she said. Seeing past students and ﬁnding out how they’ve gone is always a highlight. “I had a student come up to me in the street one day and say, ‘it’s your fault I’m a chef, you taught me food,’” Ms Prescott said. “And you take back an ‘oh wow’. It’s really good.” Ms Sanford said some students come back and say ‘here’s where I’m at’. “And you go ‘fantastic, because I can remember you in Year 8 saying, I don’t want to be at school, I’m getting out

as soon as I can,’” she said. Ms Prescott has been teaching food, textiles and jewellery making, Mr Ife is a librarian and teaches English, Ms McHarg teaches sociology, humanities and English, and Ms Sanford teaches English and Humanities. The amalgamation of the technical school and high school in 1990 was a big step. It was also a positive one. These teachers remember that amalgamation was likely, so the respective principals took the first steps. When they joined together there weren’t many nasty disagreements between the two sides. “The staff has all worked very hard together as one and to the benefit of the community; this was probably one of the most successful amalgamations in the state,” Ms Sanford said. The amalgamation led to one of the most memorable moments at the school. A former maths teacher was walking on the high school side of the premises in the early 1990s when he walked into a fish pond due to rain obscuring its edge. The man was waist deep in water, much to the amusement of other teachers. Aptly, the pond was filled in. Ms Prescott recalled the time a former principal was being slightly sexist. Female staff responded by wearing bright purple stockings to work. “It wasn’t a vindictive thing, it was one of those things I’m going to do just to let you know I’m not happy,” Ms Prescott said. A highlight for Mr Ife was helping with public speaking and debates. “It’s been really satisfying I think, to see kids gain so much confidence, do really well and, I think, get a lot out of it,” he said.

“We’ve had some terriﬁc kids go through.” In the 30 years these teachers have spent in the classroom they’ve experienced many changes. Larger class sizes, less money to spend on materials and a drastically different curriculum are some of them. Ms McHarg has noted a recent increase in team teaching, which was common at the technical school 20 years ago. Students have changed too. They’re more outspoken and willing to offer opinions as well as share problems they have beyond the schoolyard. It’s forced teachers to add the role of counsellor to their job description. “They don’t see us just as the big bogey at the front of the classroom anymore; we’re much more a part of the community,” Ms Prescott said. Family has changed as well. Ms Sanford said when she ﬁrst started teaching, two or three students, in a class of 20, might come from single-parent families. “Now it would be closer to 40 or 50 per cent,” she said. Ms McHarg said most students coped well with being in step families. “But you get the odd one who doesn’t, and things aren’t going so well,” she said. Caring for students remains a priority. “You can’t teach kids unless you care about them,” Ms McHarg said. “They have to respect you and you have to respect them.” Other teachers will be doing the respecting next year at Leongatha Secondary College. For these teachers, 2010 and beyond will include vegetable gardening, travel, renovations, making jewellery and volunteering.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 5

Information anger Sure, handing over protesters’ details on the grounds that it would protect desalination construction workers and the community. Protesters would like to know: protect the community from what? Watershed members all live in the South Gippsland community and say they have never been violent in their protests, which have continued over a period of tow-and-a-half years. Gathering in McBride Avenue ahead of their meeting, Brenda Otto joked, “I’m ﬁle number 52678/103!” She and her colleagues maintained their collective sense of humour, despite feeling as though the State had trampled over their civil liberties. “I’m outraged,” Mr Cannon told the press. “Our group has been very responsible. There has been no damage to property and no violence. “I feel this must be driven politically. “The police know us, they’ve liaised with us and to a large extent they’ve sympathised with us. If we

By Jane Ross and Bert van Bedaf

DESALINATION protesters are incensed at the State Government handing over their personal details to plant consortium AquaSure. Up to 50 protesters attended a hastily convened meeting in Wonthaggi on Sunday morning to decide what to do about the matter. Watershed Victoria president Stephen Cannon expressed his outrage in part by wearing red shoes. He said as far as he is aware, his police “record” consists of a good behaviour bond for obstructing a road. Or as he puts it, “I sat on a chair on a road.” “(Premier John) Brumby is always going on about bullying – who’s the biggest bully?” asked Brenda Otto who lives with her partner Kevin Brew on Lower Powlett Road, near the plant. News broke on Saturday that the government had cut a deal with Aqua-

information to be exchanged, as long as it did not violate privacy laws. Mr Ridley said any sharing of information would be done in compliance with all privacy law requirements. He also said the company had “not sought nor received any personal ﬁles”. He said the report in last Saturday’s Age was “quite wrong” and “false”. “The fact is it is not true.” A public document available on the internet, the 20-page memorandum was signed on August 28, 2009, by the Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria Police and AquaSure. It states that “VICPOL (Victoria Police) will release Law Enforcement Data to the project company (AquaSure), subject to “the Standard and Protocols for Law Enforcement Data Security”. The data may take the form of any text, images, audio and video. It may include “any data related to individuals”, also reports, police diaries or of-

were any sort of a threat you could understand them alerting the authorities. But we are not. “What information do they (AquaSure) have? What is it aimed at? Who knows where it is now? “They say it has happened with other projects; they’ve done the wrong thing a number of times. Mr Cannon and his colleagues can’t work out what the government and AquaSure have to be afraid of. It might have something to do with Brenda Otto. She said she and Kevin protested during the North/South pipeline project. “They took our registration number and our photos. But I ﬂashed my boobs so they had to stop. And do you remember those pensioners who stripped outside Flinders Street Station protesting about pensions? That was me!” Although no information has reportedly been passed on yet, AquaSure spokesman John Ridley said the Memorandum of Understanding between the company and the police allows for

ficial notebooks. Mr Ridley said the memorandum was about “helping the police to protect the workers on site and the community. It is about public safety. “It is about the overall relationship with the police to ensure all work together to protect the site and the community.” However, Mr Ridley confirmed that if a person or group of people would, for example, push or move a fence or gate at the site and this would have been filmed or photographed by police or passed on to police, the police would be free to pass the information on to AquaSure. “There could be photos of activities, but this has not happened,” Mr Ridley said. He said similar memorandums were in place for such sites as the Grand Prix in Albert Park and the Sugarloaf Pipeline Project.

Tiger in the berry patch A RANCEBY man was the victim of an unwelcome reptile lurking in his youngberry patch last week. Frank Hirst was picking berries when he heard a rustle, felt a prick on his ﬁnger followed by another rustle. Thinking it was a snake, though he hadn’t seen it, he looked for two bite marks, but saw none and kept picking. Several minutes later he felt faint and collapsed on the lawn. Regaining consciousness, a sweating Frank staggered inside the house where wife Sharon called an

ambulance. As he was taken to Warragul a blow-up splint was applied. In Warragul hospital tests showed Frank had been bitten by a tiger snake about 60cm long. He was given antivenom. “The nurses were buzzing around saying it’s the ﬁrst time they’d seen a snake bite,” he said. Frank stayed in hospital on Wednesday night for observation before returning home on Thursday. On Friday part of the affected ﬁnger was still numb. Snakes are a relatively common

sight on the Hirst’s sheep, tree and cattle farm. The very morning Frank was bitten he had found an 87cm tiger snake in the shearing shed. Small tiger snakes have been seen around the house previously. “It’s a bit of a worry. How do you pick your berries if something like that is going to happen?” he said.

Slithering snake: Ranceby’s Frank Hirst at the youngberry patch where he was bitten by a tiger snake last week.

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PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Fawcett mayor again By Bert van Bedaf CR Jim Fawcett was elected Mayor of South Gippsland Shire Council unopposed for a second year last Wednesday. Cr Kieran Kennedy became council’s first deputy mayor, an honorary role without additional pay, other than expenses. Both councillors nominated themselves. The roles were filled during a special statutory meeting. Their official starting date was December 3, for one year. Cr Fawcett remarked how quickly the year had gone and how much he appreciated what had been achieved. He was looking

forward to the next 12 months. Cr Kennedy said council had a number of “important issues” on its plate, such as land use (draft rural land use strategy) and aquatic strategies (pools) and the equestrian issue (pony clubs and centre). “I look forward to continuing the healthy relationship, which I’ve had over the past six and a half years, with council staff and councillors,” Cr Kennedy said. Contrary to earlier indications Cr Jeanette Harding failed to get a majority vote for the deputyship and did not stand. Apparently her fellow women councillors were not prepared to support her bid. Councillors Bob Newton and Jennie Deane congratulated both councillors on their election success.

Ofﬁce bearers: deputy mayor Kieran Kennedy and mayor Jim Fawcett congratulate each other on their election last Wednesday.

YOUR PHONE MAY NOW BE USED TO DELIVER EMERGENCY WARNINGS. During times of emergencies such as bushﬁres and extreme weather events, your landline or mobile phone may now be used to deliver a critical warning. This ‘Emergency Alert’ phone or text message is another way for authorities to inform you on what you may need to do. If you don’t understand the message, ask a family member, friend or neighbour for assistance. Learn more about this system at emergencyalert.gov.au

Do not call 000 (TTY 106) unless you are in critical need of emergency services (police, ﬁre or ambulance) or rely on a telephone warning to act. DJ011/F

Restrictions start FIRE restrictions will commence throughout South Gippsland, Bass Coast and Baw Baw shires at 1am Monday, December 14. CFA Operations Manager David Sherry said “fire restrictions are being introduced in response to the abundant fuel loads and underlying dryness throughout the region”. Whilst recent rainfall totals have been welcomed, these totals have not offset the many years of below average rainfall. Fire restrictions are a normal part of summer life and provide controls on the use of fire and heat producing machinery. “Whilst the grass is retaining a green colour, CFA brigades have been busy responding to many private burnoffs that have quickly grown out of control”, Mr Sherry said. “The number of burnoffs that have grown out of control, coupled with the intensity with which fires have been burning have been key factors when considered in determining the date of introducing fire restrictions”, Mr Sherry said. “The selection of the right date is a process that involves a great deal of consultation, with a clear focus on community safety”. From December 14, no fire can be lit without a written permit from the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or CFA Region 9 Headquarters at Warragul. Information about these restrictions is available by contacting CFA or visiting the CFA’s website at www. cfa.vic.gov.au. With the date of fire restrictions now determined, CFA is discouraging the lighting of windrow and other heavy fuel burns in the period leading up to December 14 2009. Mr Sherry says “burning off activities should now be restricted to fine fuels only, as the lighting up of heavy fuels on and around properties may result in those fires burning into the declared Fire Danger Period. “Before any burnoff is commenced during this lead up period, I strongly encourage people to look at the weather forecast for the next four to seven days, not just what the weather is doing at that moment”, he said. People should be continuing to prepare their homes for the bushfire season by checking their homes when completing repairs and maintenance around the house, because embers from a fire will target those weak spots. However, while preparing your house is crucial, families must also plan their gardens, making sure they understand the bushfire risk in their area. “Where are the plants and trees, which of them are most likely to ignite during fires, how close are they to my house – those are the types of questions people need to be asking themselves,” Mr Sherry said.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 7

POLICE BRIEFS

Dog day afternoon LEONGATHA Police have urged people to run over animals rather than swerve to miss them and risk becoming a road fatality. Three people were lucky to escape from a spectacular crash on the South

Gippsland Highway at Ruby on Saturday at 2pm, when the vehicle’s driver swerved to miss an animal believed to be a dog. The 20-year-old male driver, from Yarragon, broke his wrist in the crash and a 17-year-old passenger from Yallourn Heights suffered broken ribs.

A 16-year-old back seat passenger suffered only minor injuries. “He was coming around the bend on the other end of the Ruby straight in the left lane. There was a dog in the lane and he’s swerved to miss the dog,” Leongatha Senior Constable Jeff Watsford said. “He’s gone off the edge on to the grass verge, where he’s lost control and gone head-on into a tree beside a driveway. Then the car’s rolled, kept going across the driveway, carrying most of the tree with it. “It’s rolled and ended up on its side in a paddock.” Snr Const. Watsford said that if motorists had a choice it was “better to hit an animal than try to avoid it. “Unless it’s a Hereford bull, or something,” he said.

Pub brawl ANOTHER woman has been charged with assault after a second female pub brawl at McCartin’s Hotel in Leongatha in as many weeks. “There was a ﬁght in the pub on

Saturday night between two women. A 25-year-old Leongatha offender was processed. She’ll be charged on summons,” Senior Constable Jeff Watsford said.

More police needed: Ryan MEMBER for Gippsland South, Peter Ryan has rejected suggestions that a criminal gang raided local chemists because of low police numbers in the region. Four South Gippsland pharmacies were attacked overnight recently, with thieves stealing drugs containing pseudoephedrine, a primary ingredient in speed. Quantities of cash were also stolen. The Shadow Minister of Police told The Star that South Gippsland was not a soft target for criminals, though a lack of police numbers across the state has led to an escalation in violence, which is often drug or alcohol fuelled. “We simply don’t have enough troops on the ground. It is something that has contributed to the growth of violence on our streets,” he said.

“We have state-wide issues of this nature now. This would have appeared to have been a planned event, with a group concentrating on a speciﬁc targeted end result. “But no, we do see it all too often in the metro areas as in our country areas. I surmise that it is this area’s turn. Groups like this don’t stop at one area. They’ll have organised assaults on other locations as well.”

Foster crash

A MOTHER and her three children survived a crash at Foster on Saturday at about 1pm. “Police attended a single vehicle accident on Hoddle Road, Foster. A vehicle travelling in an easterly direction lost control on the gravel verge, striking two trees and rolling,” Foster Police’s Sergeant Neil Coates said. “As a result four people – a mother and three children - were conveyed to Foster Hospital. Fortunately, they sustained only minor injuries. Neither speed nor alcohol was believed to be the cause.”

Hospital failures may be first step to closure Continued from page 1. “We are nervous, we are very nervous about it. “Someone within the department needs to make a ﬁrm commitment about the future of our hospital.” The poor report card for the hospital buildings creates uncertainty within the community, said chamber president, Darryl McGannon. “It gives the government the option (to close), that’s the worrying factor,” he said. “I would not like to be the health service having that over my head.” Gippsland Southern Health Service CEO Gary Templeton was unable

to comment on whether the accreditation would affect the future of the hospital. “I think it would be unlikely but it’s nothing to do with me. It’s simply speculation,” he said. He added the health care standards council was independent of government. South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Cr Jim Fawcett, believed the hospital was unlikely to ever close, but said the government had a responsibility to allay the community’s concerns. “Because the government is not saying what they are intending to do about rebuilding the hospital, the si-

lence creates its own issue,” he said. The progress association and chamber will set a date for a public meeting about the future of the hospital after the health service board meets the Minister. The campaign to rebuild the Leongatha Memorial Hospital will continue beyond a delegation to Victorian Health Minister Daniel Andrews this Thursday. Peter Ryan will continue to lobby the government to fund the $30 million-plus redevelopment until the next state budget is announced in May. That is the earliest the community is most likely to learn if construction

of a new hospital would start in coming years. Mr Ryan will be joined by Gippsland Southern Health Service CEO Gary Templeton, board president Tracey Gibson and South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Jim Fawcett to meet Mr Andrews in Melbourne. Mr Ryan will table a petition, calling for a new hospital in Leongatha, in Parliament before the deputation. “The decision will be in the hands of the government, but sufﬁce to say that we as a community will keep beating this drum,” he said. “We are taking this one step at a time and we will see what eventuates.

I’m going into the deputation optimistically. I believe that Daniel Andrews, as minister, will view it in the same way. “He has to respond to budgetary issues, but we have such a powerful case.” Mr Templeton said he would ultimately like to return with a cheque in hand. “But I don’t think that is going to happen,” he said. “We are not only focused on the money but this is also about getting the right things around the building. That could be co-locating the medical centre here and co-locating the ambulance station here.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Inverloch lucky last By Jane Ross JOHN and Diana Resuggan’s new house in Meanderri Drive Inverloch, is the ﬁrst in that town to be connected to natural gas. They haven’t moved in yet, but they know the gas works. Diana tested the stove in her beautifully appointed kitchen, with

the help of State Minister for Regional and Rural Development Jacinta Allan who travelled to Inverloch to spruik the government’s natural gas extension program. The gas jet sputtered to life. John and Diana hope to be living in their new home by Christmas, where both will share the cooking. The minister chatted amiably with her host, complaining that kangaroos were eating her roses.

We’re connected: Jemena marketing manager James Wong (left) with Victorian Regional and Rural Development Minister Jacinta Allan, Diana Resuggan and Bass Coast mayor Cr John Duscher. Diana’s new home is the ﬁrst in Inverloch to be connected to natural gas.

Ms Allan lives on the outskirts of Bendigo, so she doesn’t have access to natural gas. She likes to cook though, citing baking as her favourite, testing recipes on her staff. She told the gathering of Bass Coast Shire, gas and Regional Development Victoria representatives, that Inverloch was the 34th and ﬁnal Victorian town to be connected to natural gas thanks to a $70 million project paid for by the Regional Infrastructure Development Fund. Natural gas can save between $600 and $800 a year on a household’s energy bills, she continued. “In the eight months since natural gas ﬁrst arrived in South Gippsland, 1000 residential customers have made connections.” “It’s been a very challenging project,” commented James Wong, Jemena marketing and stakeholder manager. The most complicated in the State, added the minister. Mr Wong said he hoped more residents and businesses would connect. Bass Coast mayor Cr John Duscher, underscored that point, saying land about to be released in North Wonthaggi to accommodate up to 9000 new residents would be encouraged to use natural gas. “This is a really important development,” he said of the natural gas. “It provides the opportunity for affordable, clean energy. We’re very focused on the environment here.”

It works: Bass Coast mayor Cr John Duscher (left) and Jim Demetrious from Regional Development Victoria, watch as State Regional and Rural Development Minister Jacinta Allan and Diana Resuggan (right) test the gas on Diana’s new stove.

Decibel trouble NOISY parties at the Venus Bay Community Centre on Canterbury Rd have neighbours nursing sore ears. At council last Wednesday was solicitor Bill Ryan, acting on behalf of a number of elderly objectors who wanted to remain anonymous but have experienced excessive noise levels invading their homes. Mr Ryan expressed his concerns over a recommendation to change noise conditions, which, he believed, were ambiguous and not enforceable. A volunteer at the centre, Fei Su addressed council in support of an investigation into the noise levels by an independent third party. The issue centred on council ability to have the decibel levels monitored to determine whether noise levels are being exceeded. Council or someone on behalf of council would need to know in advance when an event took place, arrange to be at one of the objector’s residences and have the equipment necessary to monitor the decibels. Council endorsed a recommendation that the centre committee must provide an acoustic report prepared by a qualiﬁed acoustic engineer to determine compliance with the State environmental protection policy.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 9

New Foster station By Matt Dunn THE new $1.5 million Foster police station was ofﬁcially opened last Wednesday by Police Minister Bob Cameron.

Foster police Sergeant Neil Coates couldn’t wipe the grin from his face. The Considine and Johnstonbuilt facility features a public counter, interview room, holding room, ofﬁce for the sergeant in charge, lock-up garage and a rainwater harvesting facility. “This is a great working environment for the police working here today. We had fairly sort of draconian digs to work in, but now it’s fantastic, because everyone’s happy,” Sgt Coates told The Star. “Everything’s new and modern. It’s great.” He believes Foster is the “jewel in the crown” of police stations in the region. “I classify this as the Corner Inlet station, because we service all of this region, not just Foster,” he said. Aside from Mr Cameron, the ceremony was attended by Member for South Gippsland Peter Ryan, and Victoria Police’s Superintendant Neville Taylor and Assistant Commissioner Paul Evans. Police chaplain Martyn Scrimshaw, a captain from the Salvation Army, blessed the station. But there were many more besides. In fact, dozens of police ofﬁcers, CFA members

and interested Foster residents watched the proceedings. Mr Cameron praised the local police members. “Our Government recognises the growing needs of the Foster community and the need for the latest in policing in this area to help Sergeant Neil Coates and Foster’s hard-working police officers in their efforts to keep the local community safe,” he said. Superintendant Taylor also had some kind words for Sgt Coates and his fellow officers (“The ones with the big smiles on their faces today.”) Mr Ryan said the station would be “a great addition to Foster and the general precinct. “Look next door and there’s the CFA. We all reflect on the fact that 173 people died in the tragedies of this year. And here we are, lining up again to a pretty tough summer by the sound of it,” he said. “I just take the opportunity to pay the appropriate commendation to all the volunteers involved in that important work, as well as the police officers who work from this station.” Nodding toward Sgt Coates, Mr Ryan joked: “And of course the proud father of the day. Have a look at him, will you, in his original uniform.” Mr Ryan presented Sgt Coates with the Victorian flag, which is set to fly at the station, along with the Australian flag presented by Mr Cameron. Assistant Commissioner Evans said the building was par-

ticularly important to a country town, as it showed “commitment to country policing. “To members who work here, thank-you, you do a great job,” he said. He said he had dropped into Leongatha on his way through to Foster and spoken to Sergeant Scott Bodycomb and his members. They’d informed him about a drunken motorcyclist apprehended on the South Gippsland Highway at Lang Lang. “He was doing 147km/h. He was over .05. It was just suicide. I said congratulations, you’ve probably just saved a life, you know,” he told the gathering. “If not the guy riding the bike, probably somebody else’s. I guess that sets an example of what police do. It’s a great example. “They apprehended that man at 6.30 in the morning. Police have started at 6am and they’re looking for things like this to protect the community. They’re there to protect and look after the community. That’s what the police at Foster do. That’s why they’re here, to look after the community.” In the blessing of the station, Captain Scrimshaw said: “I bless this station in the name of God and on behalf of all people of faith and goodwill. May those who visit and work here do so under God’s protection and guidance. Amen.” The suitably blessed Sgt Coates could not wipe the smile from his face.

Brand spanking new: with Police Minister Bob Cameron at the podium, the Foster Police Station was ofﬁcially opened.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

THE South Gippsland Relay For Life organising committee is calling on members of the South Gippsland community to register a team in this local community event, to be held at Dumbalk oval on April 10 and 11, with proceeds going to Cancer Council Victoria. At the event, teams of 10 or more people will walk, run or stroll relay-style around a track for 19 hours. It’s really easy to register – just pay a registration fee of $15 per person to obtain a team kit from the Cancer Council and then start recruiting team members (family, friends, kids or workmates). The event is

open to everyone in the community, for all ages and ﬁtness levels. “Relay For Life is an extraordinary event and I would encourage friends and families living in South Gippsland to get a team together,” said South Gippsland Relay For Life’s Walter Aich. “There is plenty of fun to be had, with everyone camping out overnight in a festive-style atmosphere while knowing you have helped raise money in the ﬁght against cancer.” Money raised will go towards the Cancer Council’s important cancer research, education and support services to help reduce the impact of cancer on the

Victorian community. The South Gippsland Relay For Life will be held at the Dumbalk oval on April 10 and 11, 2010. For more information about the South Gippsland Relay For Life event, call 1300 65 65 85 or visit www.relayforlife. org.au THE Parents and Friends Association of St Joseph’s Primary School, Korumburra, will head to Cranbourne on Saturday, December 12 to run a barbecue at the Bunnings hardware store. Any South Gippslanders in the vicinity are urged to support the school’s efforts. MEMBERS of the Leongatha Unit of Red Cross followed their ﬁnal meeting for the year with their annual Christmas breakup in the Leongatha RSL bistro. During their meeting, members discussed fund raising activities, including Red Cross Calling, for 2010. Marcia Livingstone won the rafﬂe at the Red Cross stall. YOU too can express your concern about global warming. A march is planned for Saturday, December 12. It starts at 11am at Wishart Reserve, opposite the Wonthaggi Library and will head to Apex Park where there will be speeches and music. Bring your own picnic and meet others who share concerns that the planet is being irreversibly depleted by our heavy carbon footprint. WAXING over the success of the Southern rail trail, Cr Mohya Davies said as an operator of a small backpacker stay in Foster, she’d noticed a growing number of bike riders making use of the trail, revealing, “It’s lovely to see these young men in Lycra riding around.” ON Saturday November 28 the Leongatha and District Historical Society had their Christmas break-up lunch at “Hollyside”, the historic home of Pat and Jim Spinks at

Mt Eccles South. A gathering of a wide range of our membership enjoyed a cold lunch on the lawns. With Lorna Dowel, one of the senior members and Sam Holt, deﬁnitely the most junior at three years of age, the group was mostly locals with a couple born overseas and a couple who are very new to the district. Having been closed since late June for the refurbishment, the Society moved all the collection back into the Mechanics’ Institute last Wednesday November 25 from all the members’ verandahs and hallways, spare rooms etc. With three utilities and many volunteers it all happened. The unpacking and rearrangement of displays will take a while longer. The ofﬁcial reopening is planned for Australia Day.

THE last Tavern night of the year was held last Saturday at the public hall. It again showcased many local artists, including The Meeniyan Ecumenical Choir, Brian Hoskins, Amy Smith (debut), Graeme Drury, the outstanding Chardies (asked for an encore) and the Turning Point (formerly Silver Belles and 60s Chicks), who were visited by Father Christmas (pictured). Thanks to Avril van Wamel for being a great emcee. The next Tavern night will be in February.

JOAN Fawcett (left) sat in the gallery when her husband Jim Fawcett was elected mayor of South Gippsland shire council for a second year last Wednesday. Cr Mohya Davies subtly prompted the mayor, who quickly acknowledged “the special guest”. “Joan has kept well away (from council matters), but I appreciate she is here today,” Cr Fawcett said. Cr Fawcett was going to ask a question last Wednesday, but forgot what he was about to say. It prompted Cr Bob Newton, who has had his senior moments of late, to remark, “It gets harder as you get older. It’s called old timer disease.” It sparked Cr Fawcett to recall the question and ask it.

TO all who wish to be involved in the Carols in the Drome on Saturday, December 19, there is a choir practice this Sunday, December 13 at 2pm and on Wednesday, December 16 at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, entry via Shingler Street. Just come along. THE Rotary Wellbeing Expo at Baromi Park, Mirboo North will run from 8am to 1pm on December 12. The expo will prepare you and your family for summer. Meet Christine Nixon from the Victorian Bushﬁre Reconstruction and Recovery Authority at 10am. Fine food and drink from local producers including Grand Ridge Brewery, Mardan Hills Winery, Clair de Lune Winery, Brushtail Bushfoods, Faudel Goat Cheeses, Lucinda Estate Winery, Waterwheel Orchards, Mount of Olives and 100% Delights Ice Cream. More info phone 5668 2049 or at http:// mirboonorth.vic.au/community/rotary/epicure You can also pick up a bargain at the Christmas market.

ANYONE who buys their shoes at the Leongatha Shoe Gallery, will know Elwood. Although the lovable canine is supposed to offer security for the business, he would be more likely to lick a potential thief to death than bite him. Shoe Gallery’s Ted Egan said his dog was a favourite of customers and very handy for collecting keys.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 11

Zac beats the odds By Jane Ross

ZAC Sporle is a chubby little chap.

He has big blue eyes that take in his surroundings with the easy curiosity of a placid nature and that knowing air that’s peculiar to infants his age. He’s perfectly at ease with strangers. Zac remains content as the flash of a camera goes off constantly in his little face and even rallies from near slumber to pose again when his Dad walks in the door for a family snap. It’s a toss up who’s the greater miracle – Zac or his mum. Bec Sporle 31, has methyl malonic acidaemia or MMA, a rare inherited condition that means her body has great difficulty processing protein. Her brother Nathan Wardle has it too. His case is more severe than Becs, having necessitated a kidney and pancreas transplant. Bec said she and her brother are two of only five MMA cases in Victoria.

Until reasonably recently, people with the condition have not been expected to live past their teenage years so the chances of anyone with MMA reproducing, have been less than slim. A doctor had once told Bec that she would never fall pregnant and IVF would not work. Now, she is one of four women in the world with MMA to have had a baby – and she has broken new ground by being the ﬁrst to have given birth by caesarean section. “I had a really good pregnancy,” she said, “and the obstetrician wasn’t concerned about me passing on the condition to my child.” Nevertheless Zac has been tested for it and he’s clear. Bec explained that the major worry was that when she gave birth, the protein that the birthing process released into her system, would put her at risk. And because no one with MMA had had a caesar before, there were no case histories to offer guidance. “They didn’t know how it would work.” Bec saw her longed-for child when he was born, but wasn’t able to

see him again for two days because she was too ill. Mother and son spent 12 days in the Monash Medical Centre because Bec needed care; meanwhile Zac was thriving. Now, she’s capably juggling the demands of motherhood with the help of family and her husband Adam, who readily declares that his son is “just like his Dad”. The Sporles lives in Korumburra, where Bec has spent all her life. As a child, she was treated at the Royal Children’s Hospital by Dr Gisela Wilcox. The doctor later transferred to the Monash Medical Centre, where a new clinical nutrition and metabolism unit has been established. Thanks to the unit and Dr Wilcox’s expertise, Bec and three other women with the same inherited metabolic disorder have been able to have their babies. Adam and Bec Sporle have been married for six years, but they’ve been together for 15. They’re the proudest parents in the world.

Doting parents: Bec and Adam Sporle with Zac, the baby Bec had been told she would never have.

Broadbent deflects Mafia questions MEMBER for McMillan, Russell Broadbent refused to say whether he had been interviewed by federal police as part of an investigation into an alleged Maﬁa ﬁgure’s links to the Liberal Party. “He won’t make any comment on that issue. He believes that if the AFP is investigating, then they’re the people you should be contacting,” Mr Broadbent’s media advisor Kevin Carmody said. The Australian Federal Police would not say

whether Mr Broadbent had been interviewed as part of the investigation. “We don’t conﬁrm who we are or aren’t investigating. All I can say is it’s an ongoing investigation,” a spokesperson said. Mr Broadbent was one of three MPs – along with Bruce Billson and Marise Payne - who went in to bat for Francesco Madafferi when he was facing deportation from the country. It is believed Madafferi, who is though to have links to the Italian maﬁa, donated tens of thousands of dollars to the Liberal Party. In late 2005, the then Immigration Minister

Amanda Vanstone overturned the deportation order on what she later claimed as “humanitarian grounds”. In 2008 Madafferi was arrested in connection to the world’s biggest ecstasy bust. He has also since been charged with conspiracy to murder. A well place source told The Star Mr Broadbent was targeted by Madafferi supporters and lawyers because he was seen as a “soft” Liberal, with “a more humane approach to immigration matters than other hard-liners in the Howard Government”. “Madafferi’s supporters and lawyers were

very clever in how they framed their campaign to get the deportation order overturned,” he said. “They approached the ‘soft’ Liberals such as Broadbent, Billson and Payne to take up his issue with Vanstone and the Immigration Department.” He believes Mr Broadbent acted in “reasonably good faith”. “The real question lies with Vanstone, who made the decision to overturn Ruddock’s deportation order,” he said. Mrs Vanstone has conﬁrmed that she has been interviewed by AFP.

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PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Overseas and alarmed Changing times LEONGATHA library has come a long way from shelves packed with books but little else. Today, you can take out a CD or DVD, read the latest fashion magazines or surf the internet. But the latest service offered by the West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation’s Leongatha branch is sure to have some people scratching their heads and wondering what it is all coming to. The introduction of an Xbox gaming console will see library members, young and old, able to enjoy computer soccer, car racing, adventure and other virtual activities. The library says it will attract people through their doors who may never otherwise set foot in a library. There are also arguments that computer games are educational and help children’s development. But in a world where many kids spend a huge percentage of their spare time glued to the Xbox, Nintendo or Playstation, do we really need another place for them to play such games? Taking children to a library should introduce them to a world away from the addictive attractions of the gaming console. Some quiet time in the company of books can foster a lifelong love of reading and learning. Let’s make sure we tread carefully when allowing our libraries to become extensions of our home entertainment systems.

Desal worries NEWS that police have been allowing the desalination consortium access to information on protesters is worrying indeed. From day one, the anti-desalination groups have been wellbehaved and socially responsible in their ﬁght against the massive water plant at Kilcunda. They have waged a publicity war that was probably doomed from the start, but they have done so in a way that has been respectful to the police and those involved in planning the desal plant. To turn around and ﬁnd that dirty tricks are being played on them must leave a sour taste in many mouths.

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.

The Great Southern Star Address: 36 McCartin St Leongatha, 3953 Ph: (03) 5662 2294 Fax: (03) 5662 4350 Editor: Danny Buttler Email: news@thestar.com.au

Advertising Manager: Joy Morgan Email: advertising@thestar.com.au ACN 006507580 ABN 61 318 952 541 Print Post 336735 10006

I READ with alarm and disgust of a major robbery in four local chemists by criminals who were obviously well organised. I can’t help but wonder what resources are being allocated to tackle this sort of crime? What priority is being placed on catching and locking these scum of the earth up and throwing away the key...seriously? Are we more interested in sport or the price of milk or are we serious about living a peaceful life where nobody even thinks seriously of violating another’s well being? Impossible you think? Think again..... I also ponder the thought that such a crime where I am residing is virtually unheard of. Just how conditioned are Australians (read South Gippslanders) becoming to crime at various levels? Is theft now an accepted social side effect of a tough life? Is violence just something to be avoided if possible? Are we hoping that rape, stabbings and the violation of one’s sacred privacy in a home or business for that matter are something we hope happens to the other person? When are Australians going to realise that it’s time to hammer the politicians to provide the proper funding to declare war on all crime, no matter how big or small? That means zero tolerance. If your little naughty Johnny gets caught up in it, then too bad. To change the laws so judges and magistrates have no choice but to jail perpetrators of violations of a person’s human rights........ for decades rather than years, and with hard labour....boot camps like what is happening in America? No soft stuff and tears after the event. No easy appeals, no pleading mitigating

Ship shame We hear much about car pollution and its affect on global warming and much research has gone into developing hybrid cars to reduce environmental destruction. But it is odd that we never hear anything about the pollution of the super ships that ply the oceans transporting goods from nation to nation. Since the rise of world free trade and globalisation this trafﬁc has increased dramatically. Readers should he made aware that super ships emit

circumstances. You do the crime, you do the time...and hard. I again ask people to think of a world where murder is rare, violence is virtually unheard of, drug related crime is almost non evident and robbery is dealt with so harshly that people are truly scared to face up to the reality of a real life term in jail? Where grafﬁti is never in your face, gangs are non existent and hooligans are simply dispensed with. Alcohol, while tolerated, its ugly side effects are not (if you get drunk you stay at home or face the consequences if caught in a public place!) Come and see what it’s like in an Islamic country, in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. Yes, they may not be perfect, but they are close when it comes to

5000 tonnes of sulphur (a real pollutant) in a year and this is equivalent to 50 million typical cars. Sixteen of these ships emit as much pollution as all the cars in the world combined. If the anti-polluters were really serious about reducing pollution they would be lobbying hard to have the nations of the world return to more self sufﬁciency in the basic foodstuffs and manufacturing and thus reduce our dependency on the international shipping trade. They blame carbon dioxide, a benign plant fertiliser, for causing the supposed damnation of

VOXPOP! VOX What do you think of an Xbox in the library?

I reckon they are a good way to waste our time after school and they will make more people come to the library. Jay Harris Leongatha South

I think it will get more people to come to the library and while they are waiting for the Xbox they can read a book so people can become more intelligent. Stephen Loftus Leongatha

I suppose it would suit the younger generation; it’s probably not my cup of tea. As long as it is in an appropriate place to not disturb other library users. Michael Geyle Nerrena

They’re okay; my children love them. I don’t think they will disturb people, you’d have to be really cranky. Dorothy Interlandi Leongatha

eliminating crime and allowing us the freedom to walk the streets as a man or woman at night in relative safety alone!!! Worth thinking about isn’t it? Where do you start? Here is the email address of the Minister for Police - bob.cameron@parliament. vic.gov.au And here is the link for the contact details of all the Legislative Assembly http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/mlas. html I suggest hammer them. I already have. Tony Griggs Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (former South Gippsland resident)

the world - and, of course, they present themselves as saviours, with plans to impose a universal dictatorship when they meet in beautiful Copenhagen. This is the debate we need to be having but not likely to have any time soon, as the international banking cartel is making billions from international trade as it is they, with their funny money, loaned at interest, that is fuelling this polluting shipping trade. Eddie Nowak Gormandale

Thanking you

only ampliﬁed at Christmas time, a time when they should all be at home together. As we all start to think about friends, family and special times together, I often try to imagine how different Christmas might be for a child with a serious illness and their family. Please donate to Starlight this Christmas, visit www.starlight.org.au or phone 1300 727 827. Louise Baxter CEO of The Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia

On behalf of the Starlight Children’s Foundation and all the seriously ill children and their families that we support, I would like to thank the community for their fantastic support of Starlight’s Christmas appeal. The Christmas countdown has now begun and there are only 24 days until Christmas. Starlight still urgently needs your support to reach our $1.5 million goal to connect seriously ill children to the joy of Christmas. We truly appreciate all the schools, community groups, individuals and corporate partners who have generously supported Starlight this Christmas already by making a donation and writing a ‘Message of Hope’ which has been sent to sick kids in hospitals all around the country. Every day during this Christmas period over 400 seriously ill children will be admitted to hospitals across Australia. The challenges that families face all year round who have seriously ill and hospitalised children are

Take a couple of hours out of your usual Saturday and come for a walk in Wonthaggi on December 12. A walk is being held to coincide with world leaders meeting in Copenhagen about climate change and the Melbourne Walk Against Warming. We in South Gippsland have plenty of reasons to be concerned about climate change – the effect of erratic weather patterns on farm production, bushﬁres, coastal erosion, the brown coal guzzling desalination plant – to name just a few. All of us and our children will be affected in a negative way. All of us, together, can take a stand and tell our leaders they must show leadership, stop ﬁnger pointing and embrace strategies needed to turn down the world’s temperature. The walk begins at 11am at Wishart Reserve next to the town library. Aileen Vening Leongatha

Take a walk

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 13

A very public problem By Matt Dunn FOR 88-year-old Wonthaggi resident Mary Jameson, being choked by a neighbour with a phone cord is an unfortunate part of living in public housing.

“He broke into my unit one night and he pushed me and wrapped a phone cord around my neck. Then a neighbour ran across and told people, ‘Mary needs help.’ They got the police,” she said. The incident happened a year ago, but in truth the situation has not improved a great deal. She has lived in her unit for 24 years, while her aggressive, mentallyill neighbour has been living in the street for about five years. The mental health system and the public housing system are both stretched to their outer limits, meaning there may be no alternative place to put the man, who suffers from delusions that the kindly old woman is a witch who means him serious harm. The public housing system will be stretched even further in Wonthaggi when desalination plant workers flood in. It was revealed exclusively in last week’s edition of The Star that landlords have already begun evicting low income tenants in anticipation of an influx of cashed-up desalination workers.

Housing stress: Wonthaggi residents Lorraine Kennedy, left, and Mary Jameson, right, with Member for Bass Ken Smith and State Shadow Minister for Housing Wendy Lovell, after a recent housing forum in Wonthaggi. The forum was called to address the problems faced by public housing. Member for Bass Ken Smith, said the housing crisis in the town was so extreme that the only place emergency accommodation could be found was the Miners Rest Motor Inn in Wonthaggi. “That’s the only place that will have them. Agents won’t have anything to do with people who need help with the Salvos, because they don’t want problem tenants,” he said. Meanwhile, the living standards in

public housing facilities continue to decline. The harassment directed at Mrs Jameson has come in the form of broken windows, abusive tirades, and, of course, attempts to choke her with a phone cord. Friend and neighbour, Lorraine Kennedy, said the man had made Mrs Jameson’s life a living hell. “Mary can’t have anyone going into

her place, because he thinks she’s an evil witch,” she said. The man rants and raves and scares people. Mrs Jameson recently had a health scare, finding it difficult to breathe. A doctor said the attack was stress related. Mrs Kennedy said other neighbours had also been harassed by mentally ill people who lived in the complex. Aside from the challenge of living in an environment where the threat of physical violence is a constant, other problems persist. Mrs Jameson and Mrs Kennedy both say the ground at the rear of their properties is dangerously uneven. Inadequate heating means they use small heaters that lead to exorbitant power bills. While connections for TV aerials were installed in the bedrooms of the units by the Office of Housing, there was no convenient power point. It is forbidden to have a power point installed through a private contractor. As it is, having a TV in the bedroom would mean running an extension cord across the floor, creating a tripping hazard. For Mrs Jameson, these problems mean little, though. Wonthaggi is home. If only they could find her neighbour another place to live.

Ruby Road dead-end By Bert van Bedaf THE Ruby Rd issue remains unresolved and a happy outcome is unlikely. Despite many community pleas, meetings, petitions and reports, it appears fairly certain that Ruby Rd will be closed. It also looks likely that VicRoads won’t dig too deeply into its coffers, leaving Ruby-Arawata Rd as is and making some modifications to the South Gippsland intersection. In any event, VicRoads has steadfastly refused to spend money on the western intersection until the eastern end (Ruby Rd) is closed. A VicRoads safety audit has concluded that the western intersection is safe, according to “Australian standards”, yet that is precisely where the community anger is focused most. The VicRoads review is to be tabled at council on December 18, together with recommendations. Council infrastructure director Anthony Seabrook believes there may be room for modifications, such as to increase the length of the slipway and seal the shoulder further back on the highway, allowing more room for trucks passing traffic turning right into Ruby Arawata Rd. However, there is no recommendation to widen the bridge.

500 bedazzled by Broadbeach MORE than 500 people heard about plans to open Broadbeach Resort Village in Inverloch to the public, on Saturday.

Back in bed THE second series of Bed of Roses, which was filmed partly in South Gippsland, has an air date. It will premiere on the ABC from February 13 next year. The first series of Bed of Roses will be repeated at 7.30pm on Saturday nights from January 2. Meeniyan was transformed into the town of ‘Rainbow’s End’ for the filming of the series. Whether there will be a third series of the moderately popular program is being discussed at the moment.

Contemplating dip: Marg Callanan, Russell Ogden, and Julie-ann and Terry Hudson discuss the indoor pool.

Stylish halls: Inverloch residents Rosemary Perry, Christine and Keith Finney, and Lynton Perry took the opportunity to explore Broadbeach Resort Village.

Love Tender Beef? Home delivered direct from the farm

Phone

5668 4258

or phone 0412 407 316

2001102

Village owners Omni Property Group are planning to expand the retirement village to include a mix of owner/occupier and retirement dwellings. Plans are now before Bass Coast Shire Council to change the future direction of the village, including opening resort facilities to the public. Those attractions are a restaurant/café, 27 seat cinema, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis court and gymnasium. Homes are expected to be priced between $300,000 and $450,000. Subject to council approval, construction could start as early as February. The development is valued at about $90 million. Eleven existing units will accommodate tradespeople working on the desalination plant at Wonthaggi.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Signs pulled down By Bert van Bedaf THE Notman billboards, advertising pasture seeds, have ﬁnally come down, following a council ultimatum.

Signs down: Peter Notman removed this sign and three others last Friday. It had been erected on private land along the Bass Highway. Council requires all illegal signs in the farming zone to be removed.

Poowong farmer Peter Notman, who has been running a family seed business for the last 20 years, said he had been given written notice by South Gippsland Shire Council officers to remove his four signs, deemed illegal, or face a hefty fine. Mr Notman erected four signs on private properties in the farming zone nearly two years ago. He was told if they were not removed by December 7 (yesterday), he would be fined about $5000. Last Friday, Mr Notman was busy taking the signs down, which have been seen along the shire’s highways for more than 18 months. Mr Notman said he had signs erected in other shires, including Baw Baw, but he had not been asked to

remove those. The sign issue has been ongoing in the shire. Mr Notman addressed council as far back as May 21, 2008, on his signs along the South Gippsland, Bass and Strzelecki highways. Already then he had received a notice, ordering him to pull them down. A council report, prepared by strategic planning officer Ken Griffiths last year, outlined the signage provisions of council’s planning scheme, which form part of the Victorian Planning Provisions. Mr Notman’s signs were defined as “promotional signs” and as such they were “prohibited and must not be displayed”. Council also noted “the growing proliferation of signage on rural land”. It was concerned that a failure to apply the planning scheme provisions would encourage more signs and “clutter the rural landscape and diminish its landscape values”. Although Mr Notman appreci-

ated council’s position, he said South Gippsland was more a “can’t do” shire than a “can do” one. “We’re a small Gippsland business. We moved into the area about 29 years ago and started the business 20 years ago. We wanted to put the signs up and were keen to get permits,” Mr Notman said. “We talked to the planning department and we were told ‘no way, they (signs) could be legal. What we need is a shire that says ‘how can we help our ratepayers to achieve a good outcome’?” He said he was told John Deere doesn’t put signs up, but “John Deere is a worldwide company, we’re only a small company in Gippsland,” Mr Notman said. Council put all owners of signs in the farming zone on notice on October 19, 2009, saying that illegal signs had to be removed “within 28 days from the date of the notice or possibly face a ﬁne”.

Strictly quality food on Paul’s menu

FORMER dancer, Strictly Ballroom actor, passionate boutique beer brewer and avid food buff, Paul Mercurio again visited Meeniyan last week, while ﬁlming a segment for his popular food show, Mercurio’s Menu. Seen on Channel Seven at 5.30pm on Sunday, the show features regional produce with gusto and is one of the television station’s high rating shows. Paul and his crew stayed at the

Meeniyan Motel. This is the second time they have stayed at the motel in the last 15 months. They enjoyed the relaxed friendly atmosphere at the motel and hotel and ﬁlmed a special feature on Andys’ Pizzeria Trattoria. Paul visited Andy Baird and his wife, also Andy Baird, at their restaurant mid-November last year On this visit they cooked a dish not available on the menu, a local yabby and asparagus pizza. They also ﬁlmed Meeniyan Motel,

Meeniyan Hotel, Moo’s at Meeniyan restaurant that will open this month, an a few other things around town. Keep an eye out for Meeniyan on Mercurio’s Menu in the coming months. Yabby and asparagus pizza.

Good tucker: Andy Baird (left) cooked up a feast for some hungry locals and a special guest. Left from Andy was his wife Andy and son Kaden, Paul Mercurio, Pam and Graeme McAlister and Lorraine Hughes.

Making Victoria FireReady:

Ten things you need to do now to prepare for the ﬁre season.

Experts predict that Victoria is facing fire conditions this summer every bit as bad as last fire season, and possibly even worse. No matter where you live, there are things you must to do to prepare and make sure you’re FireReady. This is even more important if you live in a bushfire prone area.

If you live in regional bushﬁre prone areas: 1. Prepare your property. Good preparation will give your home a greater chance of surviving a bushﬁre, even if you do plan to leave early.

7. If you are on holidays or travelling in Victoria

2. Assess whether your house has sufﬁcient

8. Rural landholders, primary producers,

defendable space by using the CFA Household Bushﬁre Self-Assessment tool, found at www.cfa.vic.gov.au

tourism operators and other businesses should consider the insurance required to protect them if ﬁre damages or destroys property and affects assets and income. Consider consulting a specialist rural insurance or business insurance broker.

3. Develop a written ﬁre plan and then practice it. If you have pets, other animals or stock, they need to be part of your plan. Larger properties should prepare a livestock ﬁre plan (www.dpi.vic.gov.au)

4. Prepare a relocation kit with essential items packed in sturdy containers or bags.

5. Fire Danger Ratings have changed. Factor this information into your ﬁre plan and be aware of the ratings on a daily basis during the season.

6. Find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Fire Ready Community meeting. Join or form a CFA Community Fire Guard group in your local area.

this season, plan ahead, check the weather forecasts and be alert to any ﬁre warnings – tune into your local ABC radio station.

9. If you own property in one of more than 50 areas identiﬁed as most at risk, get involved with your local CFA. Know what your area’s Township Protection Plan is and how this impacts on you.

10. Look and listen for information. Tune into your emergency broadcasters ABC radio, local radio and Sky News TV. Visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au or telephone the Victorian Bushﬁre Information line 1800 240 667. Keep in touch with what’s happening in your community.

Don’t delay. Start work on your ﬁre plan and begin preparing your property now. For a free FireReady Kit, call 1800 240 667 or go to www.cfa.vic.gov.au

For more information contact:

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

ABOUT 155 students from ﬁve South Gippsland secondary schools participated in the annual South Gippsland Schools Music Program Music Camp last week. The students from Korumburra, Leongatha, Mirboo North, South Gippsland and Wonthaggi Secondary Colleges learnt new skills, played in a variety of groups, made friends and had fun in what is always a highlight of the year for the music program.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 15

The three day non–residential camp was held at Leongatha Secondary College. The sound of guitars, flutes, drum kits, tubas, violins, voices and a myriad of other instruments filled the school as most classrooms are used for tutorials and rehearsals. All 155 musicians, plus staff, performed in a mass item as a finale to the camp, and it was the highlight of the Thursday evening concert.

Clarinet style: Katelin Staben (KSC), Emma Hales (MNSC), Robin Simpson (LSC librarian) and Kate Riley (LSC).

Above: Guitar tunes: Sam Holland (LSC) and Sinead Allen (MNSC) strike a pose last week. Above: Saxophone tutorial: Travis Hudson (KSC), Emma Turner (KSC), Brooke Little (SGSC), Aaron Boscombe-Hill (MNSC) and tutor Ross Beaton at the music camp.

Drummer boy: Sean McDonough from Korumburra Secondary College.

Left: Music camp time: Em Barton (LSC music librarian) with a euphonium and senior concert band director Susan Bradley with a tuba at Leongatha Secondary College last week.

PAGE 16 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Lynnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life to change LYNN Ward realised she wanted to teach young children after having offspring of her own.

Thanks for much: Inverloch Preschool teacher Lynn Ward is farewelled by Chloe Fox, Lilly Nelson, Angus Nelson, Jack Butcher, Luke Muir and Jayla Morcom.

After a career spanning 35 years, the Inverloch Preschool teacher will retire at the end of this year. Lynn will leave a legacy at the school, having instigated the Indoor Outdoor program of letting children pursue their own interests to help them settle into kindergarten life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some children want to stay inside and do playdough or craft, while others want to go outside for a run,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about letting the kids make a decision so they can relax and play because I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stress the importance of play highly enough. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through play, they get their life skills of negotiating and problem solving.â&#x20AC;? Having enjoyed every moment of her time at the preschool, Lynn will savour the friendships she has made. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The families are just so interested and you feel that you have always got great sup-

New look servo. Same friendly service.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll notice a few changes the next time you drive around town. Evans Petroleum have been part of this community for 39 years and we have now switched. From now on, our service stations are branded BP. So while we look different, what hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t changed are the people behind the counter. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll still ďŹ nd the same friendly locals you know and trust. To celebrate, come into one of our stores today and receive your free BP merchandise show bag. Offer applies to ďŹ rst 100 customers at participating stores. Come on in and say hello, today. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd us at: BP Fish Creek 2 Falls Rd Fish Creek, 3959

BP Korumburra 2 Commercial St Korumburra, 3950

BP Leongatha 7 Anderson St Leongatha, 3953

BP Wonthaggi 105 McKenzie St Wonthaggi, 3995

BP Foster 94 Main St Foster, 3960

BP Leongatha 95 Bair St Leongatha, 3953

BP Mirboo North 106 Ridgway Mirboo North, 3871

BP Yarram 325 Commercial Rd Yarram, 3971

BP Inverloch 25 William St Inverloch, 3996

BP Toora 26 Foster Rd Toora, 3962

W172462_EP_TS_R

Free show bag giveaway limited to 100 customers at each participating store only and while stocks last. Free show bag limited to customers making fuel and/or Shop item purchase. Offer limited to one show bag per customer. Participating stores include: BP Fish #REEK &ALLS 2D &ISH #REEK s "0 &OSTER -AIN 3T &OSTER s "0 )NVERLOCH 7ILLIAM 3T )NVERLOCH s "0 +ORUMBURRA #OMMERCIAL 3T +ORUMBURRA s "0 ,EONGATHA "AIR 3T ,EONGATHA s "0 ,EONGATHA !NDERSON 3T ,EONGATHA s "0 4OORA &OSTER 2D 4OORA s "0 -IRBOO .ORTH 2IDGWAY -IRBOO .ORTH s "0 7ONTHAGGI -C+ENZIE 3T 7ONTHAGGI s "0 9ARRAM #OMMERCIAL 2D 9ARRAM /FFER IS NOT REDEEMABLE FOR CASH OR EXCHANGEABLE FOR OTHER PRODUCTS Â&#x161; "0 IS A REGISTERED TRADE MARK OF "0 P L C UNDER LICENCE TO "0 !USTRALIA 0TY ,TD

port for your ideas,â&#x20AC;? Lynn said. Outgoing preschool president Lisa Butcher said Lynn was well respected by the Inverloch community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You could not ask for anything more, as a parent, than someone who is passionate about your children,â&#x20AC;? Lisa said. A teacher of the four-year-old groups at Inverloch for eight years, Lynn came to the role with experience as a teacher of primary school and kinder students on the Mornington Peninsula and at Phillip Island. Despite entering retirement, Lynn will still be surrounded by people of the younger generation, having three children and six grandchildren of her own. She and husband John plan to spend more time with their children and travel. The preschool community farewelled Lynn with dinner at the Inlet Hotel, Inverloch, last Wednesday. She will take part in a special ceremony at Inverloch Primary School next Wednesday, to also acknowledge retiring school staff.

I AM extremely thankful for the support of my fellow Councillors in electing me to lead Council for a second term as Mayor. I think we all share the thought that continuity at this time is particularly important as our new CEO settles in and we address pressing issues such as the Rural Strategy. I also welcome Cr Kennedy as our ďŹ rst Deputy Mayor and look forward to working with him to meet the increasing opportunities to engage with our community. In looking around the Chamber at the Special Meeting, I observed some of the qualities that our Councillors bring to the table: commitment to their community and its representation, passion for the environment, a thirst for knowledge and enthusiasm for developing our region and understanding the processes that can make that happen. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the sum of these qualities that gives me the conďŹ dence to know we will, this year, signiďŹ cantly progress many of the goals set down in our Four Year Plan. The ďŹ rst year of a new Council is often a steep learning curve. As we review and reďŹ ne the Four Year Plan in early 2010, we will be in a more informed position to address and integrate further the key platforms on which we were elected. The recent Meeniyan Carnivale was an outstanding success and a hard act to follow, so I was delighted to ďŹ nd the Korumburra community also achieving a successful event, its Buskers Festival, the following weekend. The streets had a fantastic atmosphere with buskers stationed strategically around the town and the festivities were successful in coercing travellers on their way to the beaches to take a break and join in the fun. Many rural towns in Australia are dying, but here our small communities are driven by dynamic groups that have developed their own distinct personalities as these festivals so clearly illustrate. Event organisation is a labour intensive process and Council is pleased to be able to support many events through various methods such as provision of discretionary funds, community grants and ofďŹ cer advice and support. Our Parks and Gardens teams also pull out all stops to make sure the venues are in top shape for these events. Last Saturday we thanked our hundreds of volunteers at an event at Coal Creek to mark International Volunteers Day. Many of Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services are only possible because of the generous support of volunteers. Volunteers deliver meals to the elderly, drive clients to doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appointments, plant trees in Landcare projects, help out at our Visitor Information Centres and Coal Creek, and serve on S86 and Advisory Committees. We are extremely indebted for their commitment and again offer our sincere thanks. We also celebrated International Day for People with a Disability last Thursday with a lunchtime Festival on the Council forecourt. With the theme of Capability, not Disability, it was inspiring to meet so many people with positive outgoing attitudes that overshadowed the challenges they face on a daily basis. If you still have green waste to clear in preparation for the ďŹ re season, you have a second opportunity to take advantage of the extended hours this coming weekend, operating again from 8am to 4 pm. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be lulled into complacency by the lush green sea of grass you see everywhere at the moment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it only takes a few hot dry weeks to turn it to ďŹ re fuel. Cr Jim Fawcett Mayor

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 17

Capable of entertaining LUNCH time last Thursday was dedicated to International Day of People with a Disability, with a range of activities held in front of South Gippsland shire ofﬁces.

Art class: Dale Olierook made this mosaic pot with volunteers Janne McPhie (left) and Merryn Cripps.

The maps are designed to assist people of all ages and abilities to move more easily and conﬁdently around the shire’s towns, showing safe and accessible pedestrian routes and facilities in Leongatha, Korumburra, Mirboo North and Foster, Inverloch, Wonthaggi and Cowes. They also indicate where accessible parking, toilets and change facilities are, as well as places to eat and relax. The maps will be available through the Visitor Information Centres at Korumburra and Foster and at council ofﬁces. The map project was a collaborative partnership between the South Coast Primary Care Partnership, Bass Coast and South Gippsland Shire Councils, Dance group: guitar swinging dancers were Mitchwith support from the Transport Con- ell Price, Brodie James, Leonie Macallister and Emily Ardley. nections projects in both shires.

Council’s rural access ofﬁcer Alisha McDonald, was pleased to see so many people participating. Action included a dancing display by Yooralla First Base, live music by people with a disability, art activities, as well as a free Devonshire tea and barbecue. Council worked in partnership with Yooralla First Base, Department of Human Services and local businesses to ensure the day was a roaring success. Also, a series of easy access town maps were launched at the event.

Return to the Apex THE Apex Club of Leongatha recently welcomed back Jason Anderson. Jason was sponsored by Adam Gordon and inducted by district governor, Cameron Dowling. The club does a wide variety of service work and social activities including barbecues, work on the Great Southern Rail Trail, tree planting, working bees at the club’s caravan park, Portsea camp, the Good Friday Appeal door knock, tree planting, Leongatha football gates, and has been fencing after the Black Saturday bushﬁres at Calignee and Labertouche. Social activities include ten pin bowling, go karting, par three golf, shooting at Hallston Field and Game Club for the annual Apex charity shoot, Leongatha Small Bore Club and the Wonthaggi Gun Club, and an annual cricket match against arch rivals, Korumburra Apex Club. Other activities include public speaking, debating and interclub visiting. Apex has a friendly working relationship with Leongatha Lions, SES, ﬁre brigade, South Gippsland Field and Game Association, South Gippsland Game Fishing Club, South Gippsland young farmers, Leongatha Secondary College, St Laurence’s Primary School, Portsea Camp, Leongatha Scouts and the South Gippsland Brass Band. Planned for the new year is the third Scouts and Apex trivia night. Apex is open to young men and women, 18-45, so if you like making new friends and having a great time while helping your community, maybe Apex is what you’ve been searching for. For more information contact Cameron Dowling on 0438 314 305.

When will the analog TV signals be switched oﬀ in Victoria? The analog TV signals will be switched off between 2010 and 2013, and replaced by digital TV signals. The switch off will be rolled out progressively around the country, region by region. The map and the table show you when and where the switch off will happen in your area.

NEW SOUTH WALES Mildura

Albury

Hopetoun Shepparton

Wodonga

Bendigo

Horsham

VICTORIA Ballarat

Benambra Mallacoota

Melbourne Sale

Warrnambool

Geelong

Warragul

Moe Foster

Mildura Regional Victoria Melbourne Other areas of Victoria

Where do I ﬁnd out more? • Call 1800 20 10 13 • Visit australia.gov.au/digitalready Apex Club: Adam Gordon, Jason Anderson and district governor, Cameron Dowling.

Authorised by the Commonwealth of Australia, Capital Hill, Canberra

1st Half 2010 1st Half 2011 2nd Half 2013 2nd Half 2013

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Prom friends turn 30

Park help: Fred Gerardson (Victorian National Parks Association president) and Don Jewell (president Friends of the Prom) at the group’s birthday gathering.

ABOUT 80 Friends of the Prom gathered at Stockyard Camp, Wilsons Promontory National Park, in midNovember to celebrate 30 years of service to one of Victoria’s most loved National Parks. Speakers included Fred Gerardson (FOTP member and president of the Victorian National Parks Association), ranger Dan Jones (representing Parks Victoria) and former ranger-incharge Jim Whelan (now heading the Parks Victoria Centre for Excellence based in the park). Mr Gerardson said that the FOTP was the third friends group associated with a national park when formed in 1979 by the VNPA, and had obviously ﬂourished, with up to 200 members, an active nursery group, its own website, and a long list of contributions to the park. Ranger Dan Jones said he was constantly amazed at the work the friends could achieve removing weeds, constructing and renovating tracks and doing revegetation work. He pointed out that the group had spent the morning

attacking the weed Mirror Bush (Coprosma repens), which is invading the national park from farms and council road reserves along Millars Road, Yanakie. He also praised the spirit of friendship among the group and the close co-operation with park staff that had always existed. Mr Jones highlighted the work of the FOTP Nursery Group, who attend the park every fortnight and propagate all the material required for for revegetation work in the entire 50,000 hectare park. Jim Whelan, a 36 year veteran of the Prom staff, introduced the Wilsons Promontory Fund, a project of charitable trust People and Parks. Mr Whelan was the friends liaison ranger for many years and said that the new fund would enable many people to make a monetary contribution to park for special educational projects, which could not usually be funded from scarce resources. The formalities were concluded by foundation member, former president and life member Millie Howell cutting the birthday cake.

Celebrating success: Prom friends group life member Millie Howell cuts the 30th birthday cake.

Ready to serve: Lenard’s at Michael’s IGA in Leongatha already has people raving.

LEONGATHA is rejoicing after the opening of Lenard’s in the revamped Michael’s IGA. The deli-style outlet does all things chicken, and whether you’re looking for a delicious full chicken or a heat-and-eat curry for dinner, Lenard’s is the place to go. This journalist bought a chicken curry and can report that it was easy, cheap and delicious. But there are more things to Lenard’s than just curries and full chickens. Truly, Lenard’s is a wonderland for people who love their chook. Australians can’t get enough of Lenard’s huge range of delicious fresh chicken products, hand made in store each day. Lenard’s sells a range of more than 150 fresh chicken products. Each meal is designed with the customers and their lifestyle in mind. They aim to provide delicious and innovative meal options every day that are exciting and easy to prepare. Its product team is continually developing and trialling new products to fulﬁl customer needs. In 2010, watch out for the great new product offerings coming to Lenard’s. If you love your chook you will love Lenard’s. The chicken market in Australia continues to grow. Chicken is Australia’s favourite and most consumed meat. On average, Aussies eat chicken 2.4 times a week to the tune of 37.2kgs. Lenard’s is a multi-award winning company, considered to be one of Australia’s leading fresh food retailers and a pioneer in the kitchen-ready market. Its unique concept of value-adding to fresh chicken is a forerunner in the marketplace. There are more than 185 Lenard’s stores, employing more than 3000 staff throughout Queensland, New

South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Lenard’s has sold more than 450 million chickens, served more than 130 million customers and injected more than $1 billion into the Australian poultry market since the first store opened in Queensland more than two decades ago. The revenue for the 2008/2009 financial year exceeded $145 million and has grown three per cent over the last three years. Lenard’s is Australia’s largest specialty retailer and remains one of the great success stories of Australian retailing. If you want to find out what all the fuss is about, visit Lenard’s at Michael’s IGA in Leongatha.

Fresh ﬁrst: Lenard’s chicken specialist Michael Langdon serves a tasty treat.

Prom ranger: Dan Jones addresses the Prom friends group’s 30th birthday party.

Fresh produce: Tania Comtu is part of the happy Lenard’s team.

Meals roster (Leongatha) South Gippsland Specialist School, S. Birch, and John and Joy Gaze will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning December 14, 2009.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 19

At Lenard’s Leongatha “At Lenard’s our products are made fresh in store every day by the people that serve you. And we guarantee the best fresh chicken, every day!”

GRAND OPENING SPECIALS Fresh Chicken Breast Fillets

Chicken Enchiladas

(skin-on)

(various ﬂavours)

.99

Max 3kg Purchase

Special valid from 07/12/09 - 14/12/09 at Lenard’s Michael’s Supa IGA, Leongatha. Personal shoppers only. While stocks last.

serving suggestion only

FOR

Special valid from 07/12/09 - 14/12/09 at Lenard’s Michael’s Supa IGA, Leongatha. Personal shoppers only. While stocks last.

Chicken Cordon Bleu

Kebabs (various ﬂavours)

(smoked ham & vintage cheese)

Special valid from 07/12/09 - 14/12/09 at Lenard’s Michael’s Supa IGA, Leongatha. Personal shoppers only. While stocks last.

4$ serving suggestion only

serving suggestion only

c ea

FOR

Special valid from 07/12/09 - 14/12/09 at Lenard’s Michael’s Supa IGA, Leongatha. Personal shoppers only. While stocks last.

Lenard’s Michael’s Supa IGA LEONGATHA

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

A.B.N. 74 635 204 852

Email:bjbear@bjbearings.com.au A.C.N. 005 687 909

38 Yarragon Road LEONGATHA 3953 03 5662 4300

1930 Hume Hwy 461-463 Hammond Rd 1/1821 Ferntree Gully Rd 135 Raglan Street 13 Endeavour St, 521 Main Street 28 Inverloch Road 61 Chickerell Street 1055 Princes Hwy SALE 3850 PAKENHAM 3810 CAMBELLFIELD 3061 DANDENONG 3175 FERNTREE GULLY 3156 WARRAGUL 3820 BAIRNSDALE 3875 WONTHAGGI 3995 MORWELL 3840 TRARALGON 3844 03 5153 1555 03 5623 5444 03 5144 5111 03 5940 1111 03 9357 6166 03 9768 3799 03 9753 6200 03 5672 1200 03 5134 3777 03 5175 0500 1 Purton Road

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 21

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PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 23

Another honour for i30 THE Hyundai i30 has done it again.

Award winning: the Hyundai i30 has taken out another award recognising its status as a superior small car.

It’s been awarded another two prestigious motoring gongs. The first was the Wheels magazine Gold Star Car awards. The Hyundai i30 SX CRDi came first in the ‘small car under $26,000’ category. Judges described the i30 as the most affordable diesel in Australia. The Wheels 2009 Gold Star Car awards relate to the best ownership proposition. Terrific fuel economy, an unbeatable warranty, long 15,000km service periods, the best insurance price and a suite of standard safety features were among the reasons the i30 won. The second was in the motoring organisation’s best cars awards for the i30 SX CRDi turbo diesel, Australia’s ‘Best Midsize Car Under $30,000’ for 2009. It followed an exhaustive evaluation and assessment process focusing on value for money, design and function, and on the road performance. Chief judge of Australia’s Best Cars, Ernest Litera said the i30 offers the best value for money within the judging criteria in its class. “The i30 has topped its class in terms of ownership costs and operating costs, including fuel economy,” he said. “The i30 scored above average in all 19 areas that were measured, particularly in

safety and security.” A test drive of a petrol engine i30 with automatic transmission demonstrates why the vehicle won. It is ﬁrm on the ground with responsive steering and adequate acceleration. A spacious small car interior offers ample space for the family. The i30 is obviously ideal for driving short distances around town, but it would be a shame if that was the only use it had. Once it’s at full speed on the highway the i30 shines. Everywhere in the Hyundai i30 are things that show the designers thought long and hard about what would make a safe and easy driving experience. For starters there is a clear view out the front windows, generously sized side mirrors and well positioned rear view mirror. The radio and temperature controls are well laid out and easy to use. Cupholders have supports to keep your liquid from spilling. The key fob has a ﬂip-out key, making it attractive and easier to store. Hyundai was the only car maker to win three categories in the Gold Star Car awards. The Hyundai Santa Fe SX CRDi took out the best medium SUV award and in the light car under $21,000 category the Hyundai Getz SX won.

Safety tips for Christmas driving Night time driving

REMEMBER that distance you can see ahead and to the side is severely reduced at night. This means you will take longer to see hazards on the road or along the roadside. • Switch on your headlights • Use your high beams where appropriate. While you need good visibility to drive safely, it is just as important for other drivers to be able to see you. Driving in wet or hazardous weather It is difﬁcult to see clearly in the rain. To improve safety when driving in wet weather: • Make sure your windscreen is kept clean inside and out. You never know when it might rain • Ensure your windscreen wipers are in good condition • Turn your headlights on to low beam • Use your air conditioner to prevent your windscreen from fogging up. If you don’t have an air conditioner, use the heat-

Be prepared: adapting to sudden wet conditions in summer can be a challenge. er demister and, if necessary, open the windows. Remember it takes much longer to stop when the road is wet, so do not follow another vehicle too closely when it is raining or if the roads are wet. Increase the gap between you and the car in front from two seconds to four seconds. Driving in fog It is difﬁcult to see clearly when driving in fog. Don’t put your lights on high beam as this only lights up the fog and makes the road more difﬁcult to see. In fog you should:

• dip your headlights so you can see more easily. Low beam keeps the light on the road and not directed up into the fog • drive slowly • not follow closely behind another vehicle • use your fog lights if you have them. Driving near bushfires The smoke from bushfires can make it more difficult to see the road. Wherever possible avoid driving near bushfires by seeking out an alternate route. But if you are caught near one, remember these tips: • If surrounded by fire, park car in the barest area possible – away from tall grass and shrubs • If possible, park the vehicle with the rear facing the oncoming fire • Close all windows and vents tightly • Shelter on the floor of the car and cover yourself with blankets or floor mats • Only emerge from the vehicle when you are sure that you are upwind of the blaze • Only move out of the area once all smoke has cleared.

Holiday driving The roads are more crowded at holiday times so make sure you remember these tips for a safe and happy journey. • Share the driving if possible • Take rest breaks at regular intervals • Pack snacks and cool drinks • Have a good night’s sleep prior to the trip • Pull off the road and have a power nap if you are feeling tired or drowsy • Never drive when you would normally be asleep (late at night or early in the morning). Vital checks before a long trip • Check all fluid levels (coolant, water, automatic transmission, brake, clutch, power steering fluids) and top up if necessary. • All tyres (including the spare) should be correctly inflated to the correct pressure. • Check brakes are working correctly (including the handbrake on a hill). • Ensure windows and lights are kept clean to ensure the driver’s visibility is not reduced. Driving tips from RACV

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Ride legal: offenders will be caught if they break the law.

Ride happy trails WITH summer holidays on the way, the Department of Sustainability and Environment is urging trail bike riders to have a safe festive season by riding responsibly on public land. DSE trail bike project officer, Joy Harte said trail bike riders in state forests must have a motorcycle licence, ride a registered bike and stay on the properly constructed roads and tracks. “It’s a great time of year to get out and enjoy the bush, but we really want people to do it safely and take care of the environment while they’re out there,” Ms Harte said. “Stick to the proper roads because making your own trails causes erosion and destroys native vegetation and habitat. “Plus, you risk being fined $117 for riding off-road, or more than $900 for being unlicensed and unregistered.” DSE and Parks Victoria officers will be patrolling crown land around Bairnsdale, Erica, Heyfield and Mirboo North over the holiday period. “The rules are there to protect you, the land and other people who enjoy the bush,” Ms Harte said. “Please remember that underage or unregistered riders can ride on private land but only with the permission of the owner and four wheel bikes can only be ridden on private land.” Trail bike riders can also take advantage of clubs close to the major towns in the region, including the Maffra Motorcycle Club, the Leongatha Motorcycle Club, and the Warragul Motorcycle Club. Riders seeking more information should visit the DSE website, www.dse.vic.gov.au/ trailbikes or call DSE on 136 186.

Popular pastime: exploring forests by bike over summer.

Chris Judd donates i30 CHRIS Judd, captain of Carlton Football Club has been awarded the ‘AFL Player of the Year’ award at the 2009 Sports Performer of the Year Awards. Chris’ achievement earned him a brand new Hyundai i30, which he immediately donated to The Mirabel Foundation, a charity supporting children orphaned and abandoned due to parental illicit drug use. “During the past year, I’ve had involvement with the Mirabel Foundation,” said Chris Judd. “Being AFL Player of the Year is something I am extremely proud of and donating the i30 to the Mirabel Foundation was something I really wanted to do – the team there do an amazing job.” “When I heard that Chris Judd was donating his prize for AFL Player of the Year, a Hyundai i30, I immediately thought of the amazing opportunities this would present to some of the Mirabel children,” said Jane Rowe, CEO and Founder of Mirabel.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 25

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Interior style: the new Prado has all the practicality Toyota is famous for.

Knights Toyota’s: Bradley Westaway with the all new Toyota Prado.

New Prado appeal THE T Toyota P Prado d is i popular l in i South Gippsland, with many people purchasing one from Knights Toyota in Leongatha.

Room to move: changes to the Prado’s styling has increased interior space.

A new model is good news for those ready to update and others looking to try the impressive vehicle for the first time. The Prado appeals to all sorts of people, from families seeking extra space and seven seats, to rural dwellers who want a tough 4WD to cope with the demands of the region’s countryside. It is also available in a new three door configuration. On the road in the Prado it’s the lack of noise you’ll notice first. Road and wind noise is minimal, guaranteeing you a whisper quiet journey. A smooth ride is provided by the gentle working of the five speed transmission. Your family will be safe in the Prado. It has traction control, downhill descent control, ABS brakes and electronic brakeforce distribution. There are plenty of airbags, with a dual stage driver’s airbag, front passenger airbag, driver’s knee airbag, driver and front passenger airbag, and front and second row curtain shield airbags. If you have a third row of seats they come with curtain shield airbags. Prado is the biggest selling mid-size SUV in the world and now has even more features to keep it ahead of the opposition.

With there’s Wi h ffour model d l options, i h ’ a Prado P d to suit everyone’s budget and taste. In the most popular model, the GXL has roof rails, side steps, three-zone climate control air conditioning, rear view camera, conversation mirror and alarm system. There are also plenty of lamps, cruise control, Bluetooth handsfree capability, CD player, USB/MP3 player audio input, 220V AC power sockets and engine immobiliser. The Prado has a braked towing capacity of 2500kgs. In cost-conscious times you’ll be pleased to know Toyota has squeezed more fuel savings from the engine. The restyling of the vehicle has allowed increased interior space. But even though the Prado is spacious inside, it doesn’t feel like you’re driving an overly large vehicle. Seats are comfortable and fully adjustable to suit tall and short people. The smart entry and start system is an intriguing feature of the new Prado. Keep the key fob in your pocket or handbag and when you are close enough to the Toyota the sensor registers and unlocks the door. In the vehicle, put your foot on the brake pedal and push a button to start the Prado rather than turning a key. To test drive a new Toyota Prado, see the team at Knights Toyota on Hughes Street in Leongatha.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 27

FROM this week the Mobil petrol stations supplied by Evans Petroleum in South Gippsland will go green, having changed over to becoming BP stations.

Pumping BP: From this week, Stuart Evans will be supplying BP stations in South Gippsland, having rebranded his stable of Mobil stations.

Rain no dampener

RAIN failed to dampen the conviviality enjoyed by more than 100 guests as John Duscher bade farewell to his Bass Coast mayoral year.

Supported by his wife Lynn, Cr Duscher welcomed friends, fellow councillors, council staff and representatives of many of the shire’s or-

ganisations to a “community thank you”. The event was held at Wonthaggi’s State Coal Mine community hall which boasts a barbecue area under cover. Guests included State MP Ken Smith, McMillan MHR Russell Broadbent, Allan Brown who chairs the Bass Coast Community Founda-

tion, Dr and Mrs Peter Brooks who founded the foundation, deputy mayor Cr Peter Paul, Bass Coast Regional Health CEO Lea Pope and health service board chair Jeff Bennett. Councillors meet on Wednesday to elect a mayor for the next municipal year.

Night out: enjoying the Bass Coast mayor’s community thank you at the State Coal Mine are from left, Mary O’Connor, Jenny Milkins, Peter and Alison Brooks, Gary Parker (at rear) and John Methven. Gary and John were representing the National Vietnam Veterans Museum.

Thank you: Bass Coast mayor Cr John Duscher and his wife Lynn, hosted drinks and ﬁnger food to thank the community for a busy and interesting mayoral year.

The ofﬁcial changeover date is December 15. The rebranding process started a month ago, when Evans Petroleum managing director Stuart Evans announced the change, which has come as a result of a move by Caltex to buy the 300 Exxon Mobil stations in Australia. Although this move is still under consideration by the competition watchdog Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, it will not affect the arrangement Mr Evans has struck with BP. “Our arrangement will still go ahead. We’ve gone green,” Mr Evans said. “The name and sign will change, but everything else will remain the same. “We’ll provide the same dedicated customer service we’ve been providing for nearly 40 years. The same staff will be behind the counter.” Mr Evans said the changeover would also not adversely affect the retail price of petrol at the stations. “It will be no more or less than previously, other than normal ﬂuctuations that occur,” he said. Staff will be wearing brown uniforms with the green BP logo, which in the present green climate seems very appropriate. The petrol-multinational has more than 22,000 service stations worldwide and is a recognised brand with a high reputation for service and quality automotive products. This is the third change since Evans Petroleum began nearly 40 years ago. Established by the parents of Mr

Evans on December 7, 1970, the company celebrated 39 years of operation yesterday. “There’s a bit of history,” Mr Evans said. “When we began we were Esso distributors until January 1, 1990, when we became Mobil.” Some of the Mobil business will remain. “The retail outlets will be BP, but we will continue with Mobil wholesale. We’ll have access to Mobil fuel and Mobil products for commercial and farming businesses,” Mr Evans said. “The emphasis is that the company structure and staff has not changed.” Mr Evans was 18 years old, when he left Leongatha High School (now Secondary College) and joined his parents in the business. His son Warren, 31, is also working at Evans Petroleum with a view to taking the reins in the future. Mr Evans and his wife Jenene are co-directors. Other senior staff are John Schelling, wholesale sales manager; Steve Lovie, retail manager; and Brian Hallyburton, depot and dispatch manager. The company has 105 staff over 11 sites and runs 11 tankers. The rebranding will affect 10 stations, two in Leongatha and one each in Inverloch, Korumburra, Mirboo North, Fish Creek, Foster, Toora, Yarram and Wonthaggi. There will be two BP stations in Korumburra as a result, but they will operate independently of each other. The station in Cowes will remain Mobil. For inquiries, call Evans Petroleum on 5662 2217.

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 29

WITH the weather heating up, this Alex Scott & Staff, Venus Bay property has everything you need for a fun summer. Read about it on page 34.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Access all you need A

RE you looking for a home that’s close to everything?

Then look no further. This cosy little home is located in Davison Street Leongatha, which is perfectly positioned within an easy walk to the main street, all schools, Brumley Street Medical Clinic and Kats Corner milk bar. Built of brick, the home features three bedrooms - two with built-in robes, and a large foyer with a double glass door entry to the lounge. The open plan kitchen features electric cooking, loads of cupboards including overheads and a breakfast bar. The updated bathroom features a new shower with built-in moulded shelves, and fresh paintwork. The laundry has ﬂoor to ceiling built-

in shelves and a single sink with cupboard underneath. Step out the back door to an undercover outdoor entertaining deck, which overlooks the backyard. A garden shed sits in one corner and the backyard is fenced off for the kids or animals. The low maintenance front garden is full of native plants, and the whole property is finished off with a brick front fence. It is well insulated, with batts in the roof and a north facing living area to take advantage of the winter sun, a reverse cycle air conditioner takes care of the rest of your heating and cooling needs. This home is ideal for a first homebuyer, young family, or the astute investor. It’s definitely worth an inspection.

At a glance Location: 1 Davison Street, Leongatha. Price: $225,000. Sole agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 0922.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 31

Iconic Inverloch beach location T

HIS rare gem is set on 548 square metres of land only 100 metres from the Inverloch beach. This gorgeous east-west running block boasts a perfectly presented three bedroom beach pad. Features include open plan, kitchen living and dining, built-in robes to the three bedrooms, timber ﬂoors throughout complemented by a spacious bathroom and laundry. If you are looking for an investment property or holiday home, then look no further. This truly is an idyllic Inverloch beach pad.

At a glance Location: 3 Grandview Grove, Inverloch. Price: $528,000. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Inverloch. Contact: 5674 1111.

Prom Country DUMBALK NORTH ~ a treat of a retreat

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

At the end of a country lane, ‘Jack’s Place’ is the quintessential country retreat - a cosy three bedroom character farmhouse with 10ft painted timber ceilings, enclosed veggie garden, fruit trees, chook house, old-fashioned roses, rusticstyle outbuildings and a rolling paddock leading to a gazebo and ﬁrepit beside the permanent creek. All on nearly 4 acres of fertile river ﬂats including river lease. Ahhhhh, this is the life for me!

DUMBALK ~ a view to build for

With fantastic rural outlooks over the rear boundary, this beautiful building block is in a quiet street just 200m to the General Store. Get a head start with existing mature plantings and a 45,000l water tank. Inspect! By appointment Address 21 Miller Street, Dumbalk For Sale $52,500 - $59,500

For Sale $210,000 - $230,000 Inspect! Sunday 1.00 - 1.30pm or by appt Address: 65 Trease & Robbins Road, Dumbalk North

Y N DA PE R O ATU S IS

LEONGATHA ~ family frolics Why bother building? 3 amazing living spaces include a theatre room. Stunning kitchen with Butler’s Pantry. The master bedroom suite features double vanities.The garage has 2 separate direct access points into the home. The 3rd living space, the rumpus, opens directly onto the al fresco dining area. Informal living space adjoining the kitchen is massive, leaving room for generous dining, and big furniture for lounging!

For Sale $380,000 - $410,000 Inspect! Sat 11.00 - 11.30am or by appt Address: 5 Eleanor Court, Leongatha N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

MIRBOO NORTH ~ camelot

Elevated rural views, and rented at $200 per week, offering excellent returns. On 591sqm (approx), 3 bedrooms, lounge, updated kitchen. Across the road from the Sec College, with walk through access to Strzelecki Hwy. You can’t go wrong! Inspect! By appointment Address 5 Castle Court, Mirboo North For Sale $150,000 - $165,000

Set in a quiet street with rear rural views, you’ll ﬁnd this classic 1950s, 3 bedroom home surrounded by colourful plantings. All the design integrity of the era with original ﬁnishes, wide venetians and 10ft ceilings: a retro lover’s dream!

24/7

Inspect! By appointment Address 19 Miller Street, Dumbalk For Sale $165,000 - $179,500

LEONGATHA ~ executive options Beautiful town property featuring spacious gracious living rooms, 2 bathrooms, large “indoor/ outdoor” rumpus room, 3 big bedrooms, timber kitchen (stainless steel appliances), + double carport. Includes 11’ ceilings, original timbers, hardwood ﬂoors, rendered double brick construction, extensive leadlight. Ducted heating, open ﬁre, alarm, tesselated tiling, luxurious carpets & opulent window furnishings.

allen bartlett 0417 274 624

kaz hughes 0417 516 998

For Sale $475,000 - $525,000 Inspect! Sat 12.00 - 12.30pm or by appt Address: 26 Ogilvy Street, Leongatha

FOSTER NORTH ~ sweet sixteen Amidst green rolling hills, this executive residence is designed for casual country living, with elegance and grace. Expansive, with a ﬂoor plan to suit a variety of lifestyles, there’s a gourmet kitchen at its heart. 3 living areas, 4 bedrooms, study, & 2 stylish bathrooms inside, and extensive garaging, shedding and workshop facilities externally. Gorgeous house gardens, and sixteen fertile acres with an option of sixteen more. Inspirational! For Sale $525,000 - $575,000

Inspect! Sun 1.00 - 1.30pm or by appt Address: 2 Falls Road, Foster North

93 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan

DUMBALK ~ retro opportunity

Selling Properties

promcountryrealestate.com.au

lisa williams

MEENIYAN ~ 1st home/invest me/in nvestt

On a pretty corner allotment on the town’s edge opposite parkland and 30m from the playground, is “Pop In”. 3 bedrooms, updated bathroom with corner spa bath, colourful gardens, and watering system. Solid home. Solid start. Solid investment! Inspect! By appointment Address 173 Whitelaw Street Meeniyan For Sale $160,000 - $180,000

5664 0224

Glenys Foster administration & property management

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 33

A treat of aY retreat OU can feel the tension slipping away before you even arrive at this soothing retreat.

Turn off the busy bitumen onto a quiet country lane, pass across the little bridge over the singing creek and arrive home to Jack’s Place, named after a former farmer-owner. Jack’s Place is a four acre quintessential country retreat - a combination of a cosy home in a beautiful setting with creek frontage and mesmerising rural outlooks. The three bedroom character farmhouse features 10 foot painted timber ceilings in the main rooms, original timber floors, open fireplaces in the living room and master bedroom, and original dado walls. The ambience is warm and comfortable with a strong sense of history and happy memories. A short distance from the house is a huge enclosed garden with vegie beds, a lush water feature and the Taj Mahal of chook houses (five metres square by six metres high).

At a glance Location: 65 Trease and Robbins Road, Dumbalk North. Price: $210,000 - $230,000. Agent: Prom Country First National, Meeniyan. Contact: Allen Bartlett 0417 274 624 or Kaz Hughes 0417 516 998.

Red soil and 30 meg water licence

OCATED about 10 minutes drive from Leongatha in Blandfords Road, this block of approximately 158.5 acres may just be that turnout block you are looking for. Ideal for many purposes, this

block boasts warm red soil in a high rainfall area, making it suitable for cropping, as it also includes a 30meg water licence and ﬂat bed storage for cropping material. With its gently undulating topography, and great all weather tracks in a central laneway to service

At a glance Location: Blandfords Road, Berrys Creek. Price: $6,500 an acre. Sole agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Leongatha. Contact: Andrew Newton 5662 0922 or 0402 940 320.

all paddocks, the land is also suitable for grazing. Other shedding includes large lock-up storage, large machinery shed and an ofﬁce/lunchroom unit. With great house sites available (subject to council approval), call to arrange an inspection now.

Rain water for the garden is collected from the roof of a corrugated iron storage shed used to house your garden and small farm implements, or may be pumped from the Tarwin River West Branch, which forms a long stretch of the boundary. There are mature fruit trees, a variety of young citrus trees, old-fashioned roses, more shedding and a huge shady willow tree to read under. Oh, and a gazebo and campﬁre circle beside the river, perfect for relaxing or entertaining friends and family. On title, there are 2.18 acres including a gently undulating paddock with fertile river-ﬂat soils, plus an agricultural river lease, making a total of nearly four acres. A water licence allows up to 2.2mL a year to be pumped from the river for domestic and stock use. Approximately 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne’s CBD, Jack’s Place is perfect for a weekend escape or longer. Ahhhhh, this is the life for me.

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Secure a top ’Burra home S

TOCKDALE & Leggo, Korumburra’s recommendation is you contact them sooner rather than later to secure this great Korumburra property. It’s a good looking home with great street appeal, and the interior is guaranteed to please as well. The home comprises four bedrooms, each with built-in robes, and there’s a beautiful en suite with spa bath. The living area is generous

and inviting, with reverse cycle air conditioning and opens onto a small deck, just the place to unwind at the end of a busy day. A separate dining room adds a touch of class to the property. The residence has a delightful modern kitchen with a dishwasher. A sensational new bathroom, with spa, has been added and it looks like a bathroom from one of those glossy home magazines. The laundry also is new, and it is ﬂash and has great storage.

Every man needs a shed, and this property has a beauty; it’s a double Colorbond shed with a concrete ﬂoor and power. The property is nicely landscaped with an elevated walkway from the front entry and a nice water feature. Stockdale & Leggo are excited to be able to bring this wonderful property to the marketplace and they suggest you call them to take advantage of this excellent opportunity.

At a glance Location: 1 Lower Gordon Street, Korumburra. Price: $270,000. Agent: Stockdale & Leggo, Korumburra. Contact: John O’Connor 0416 193 990.

Love summer at Venus Bay H

ERE’S a luxury Venus Bay home boasting only the best.

It is a resort-style home featuring cathedral ceilings, large open plan living, wood heating and reverse cycle air conditioning. The home has four large bedrooms, two bathrooms and a modern kitchen. There’s also covered verandahs on At a glance Location: 5 Grogan Court,Venus Bay. Price: $620,000. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff,Venus Bay. Contact: 5663 7111.

four sides, with substantial storage space and car parking underneath. The home is set on an acre of land in an exclusive part of Venus Bay and boasts its own solar heated pool with spa function, plus its own sandy beach and wet bar. The property is 300 metres to the pristine beaches of Venus Bay. This home is unique and will appeal to the most discerning buyers.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 35

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Meeniyan’s olden day MEENIYAN hosted its annual antiques fair recently, with large crowds enjoying the display of knick-knacks, furniture and collectables. Bargains were to be had for those who knew where to look. One astute Leongatha man was delighted with a Stanislav Halpern etching he snared for $50. He has since had it valued at $300. Others were happy just to browse through the collections of oddities and rarities.

Having a squiz: Alec Foster and daughter Hanah from Toora were checking out the antiques.

Helping out: Tania Dods-Cumming and daughter Olivia were helping feed the hungry hordes at the antique fair.

Meeniyan concert a hit THE Colours of the Wind blew through Meeniyan recently, with the sweet sounds of the Tarwin Valley Primary School 2009 concert. Down time: Meeniyan’s Sara Janssen relaxes during a break from serving food and drinks at the antiques fair.

Looking around: Lyndell Cope and daughter Serena from Middle Tarwin try to snare a bargain at the antiques fair.

New banking hours MEENIYAN real estate identity Kaz Hughes (pictured), a driving force behind establishing a Bendigo community bank in town, said the ATM had been much in demand. The machine was installed near the Prom Country First National Real Estate ofﬁce before the opening of Carnivale, held on November 20-22. It has been a popular money well since. “There have been 500 transactions since it was installed and the number is increasing steadily. The bank has been very happy with the usage,” Kaz said.

The school was very fortunate to have secured the artistic services and talents of Bernard Mangakahia, who took the students on a cultural journey through the Paciﬁc Islands and North America to learn about the people, songs and dances of the regions. The students participated in three days of intensive dance workshops which culminated in a spectacular dance performance. Teaching staff launched the show with Colours of the Wind performed with hand gestures to music.

Grades one through to ﬁve performed a variety of dances from Hawaii including a coconut dance. The 3/4 class took the audience to New Zealand and performed an impressive ultraviolet lit poi display. The Prep/1 class performed a moving native American piece highlighting the importance of education as the ladder to happiness. The Grade students’ complex Native American Indian hoop dance symbolised the need to face challenges to grow as a person and be able to face greater challenges in life. Not only did the students present an enjoyable performance to their community but they also learnt about other cultures and the importance of dance and storytelling to other cultures.

All in this together: Tarwin Valley Primary School students put on great performances, including the ‘coconut dance’.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 37

The den of men By Chris Brown A NEW shed to house the Venus Bay, Tarwin Lower and District Men’s Den group has been completed in Venus Bay. The group began two years ago and has grown to more than 20 members. It aims to provide a place for men to get together. Venus Bay resident Mike Hibbitt thought of a men’s group a few years ago. “I used to go to the shops on the community bus and there were mainly women,” he said. “Then when they got home these men would meet them and I thought, we need to get these men out of the home and to meet each other.” So at a Christmas dinner dance Mike gathered names of people who would be interested in the group. “Women can organise themselves to do activities, whereas men might stay at home and potter in the shed or garden,” he said. “The only other place you can meet men is the pub, which a lot of us don’t go to much anymore, or the golf course and that’s gone.” Mike was the group’s ﬁrst president. “The positives of the group are men getting out of the house and meeting like-minded men,” he said.

“We’ve become good friends. Sometimes you meet men who’ve been here for 10 years and you haven’t met them.” The group is comprised of men from all different backgrounds including builders, medical scientist, university lecturer, farmer, seaweed purveyor, industrial computer programmer and business people. Most of them have only moved into the area in the last 10 years. Currently the group’s focus is on the newly constructed shed they will use for their meetings. It was made possible by a Department of Planning and Community Development grant and South Gippsland Shire Council, which provided the land. The Venus Bay Community Centre, where the group currently meets, offered guidance on the project. Men’s Den members are looking for equipment and tools to put in the shed. They’re asking people with unused and unneeded items on their properties to consider donating them. Men’s Den secretary Roger Watkin’s has been involved in the group for six months. He only moved to Venus Bay a year ago. “My wife and I moved here and I thought, what will I do?” Roger said. “I heard a bit about the men’s

sheds and got involved with the Venus Bay Community Centre and attached to that was the Men’s Den. “I joined up and found it very interesting. It’s nice to pass on skills you have to other members.” Horst Proegen moved to Venus Bay 10 years ago and has been a Men’s Den member for a year and a half. He said the group has helped him meet people in the area. Horst has also been able to share his building expertise with other members who in turn helped him with gardening advice. Men’s Den members have also contributed to the wider community. At Tarwin Lower Primary School they’ve worked on fences and across the district small jobs have been completed for pensioners. Community gardens could be a possibility in the future. At the community centre the men will play pool, cards, darts or carpet bowls. Roger said men can get together to have a talk. “If they want to do some wood work or metal work they can,” he said. “They can teach other skills if they want to. There’s no pressure.” The group meets once a fortnight on a Wednesday at 10am at the Venus Bay Community Centre.

Men’s Den: back: Colin West, Roger Watkin, Norman Finck, Horst Proegen, Frank Cullen and Bruno Trenning; front: Don Kennedy, Mike Hibbit and Geoff Hartshorn at the group’s new shed in Venus Bay.

Wake up, Inverloch! EVERYONE is well and truly awake at Inverloch Primary School. Every Tuesday morning from 8.30 until 8.45am, anyone who would like to do so, dances, jumps, skips and jives about to energising music. A parent volunteer, Leith Cummins, leads the dancercise and the children and any adults present join in. The aim is to help participants be ready and alert for their day. Exercise helps to ‘wake up’ our brains, ready for learning, working and playing!

STEVIE-Grace Bakos was born at Frances Perry House in Melbourne on November 23, to Beau and Cindy-Lee Bakos of Melbourne. Stevie-Grace is the couple’s ﬁrst child. Beau is formerly of Leongatha.

JARVIS Colin Spence Dalton was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on November 27 to Lisa Britt and Carl Dalton of Kilcunda. Jarvis is a new brother for Sophie aged 3 and Chelsea aged 17 months.

Toora ready for anything

TOORA is one part of South Gippsland that seems ready to face the ﬁre season.

Former CFA captain Ray Argento said people had prepared themselves and their properties for what could be another horror summer. Now deputy group ofﬁcer for the regional CFA, Mr Argento said the local brigade of 22 members would have plenty to think about over the next few months. “Our main concern is north of Toora, which is the base of the Strzeleckis or the back of Boolarra,” he said. “The Mount best area and Mt Fatigue are both a big concern as well.” Around Toora itself, coastal scrub is the major concern, but Mr Argento believes it does not pose a threat to the town or surrounds. Arson has been a problem around Toora in recent years.

The successful prosecution of a local arsonist might reduce the risk this summer, but Mr Argento urged residents to be aware of unusual behaviour. “If people are acting suspiciously on roadsides and the bush, we ask people just to take note and report any suspicious activity to police.” Mr Argento urged local residents to be alert, but not alarmed about the ﬁre threat this summer. “I think it is good that people are

aware, as long as they don’t overreact,” he said. “The last thing we want is our (CFA) boys worn out on false alarms from incinerator fires or burn-offs.” Fire ready meetings have been held around the district, with concerned locals coming out in force to learn what they can do to protect themselves in the event of bushfire. “We’ve had a number of fire ready meetings, with about 25-30 people attending at each one,” Mr Argento said. “The Mt Best community is fairly tight-knit and they supported the meeting well.” Helping the brigade this summer will be a batch of new recruits who signed up after last summer’s fires. “We picked up a fair whack after the Black Saturday fires, including some younger guys and they have already done their training, which is good,” Mr Argento said.

Fire ready: former Toora CFA captain, Ray Argento, is encouraging home owners to do everything in their power to remain safe both inside and outside their homes this summer.

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

RSL’s double honour

THE Leongatha RSL has won two prestigious State awards.

One is for being the Victorian RSL licensed sub branch of the year and the other was presented to its president Rod Cameron, who has been inducted in to an RSL hall of fame. He is typically self deprecatory about being in the hall of fame, but sees it as an honour for the whole sub branch. He had no idea he had been nominated. Secretary Anne Davies put his name forward and managed to keep it a secret. Although, she confessed, he nearly found out. “He never looks at the computer screen, but he saw his name on the submission and asked me about it!” She managed to fob him off. She said when the Leongatha sub branch was announced as the licensed sub branch of the year, Rod’s jaw “dropped to the ﬂoor”. “I thought that’s what happened when they inducted me into the hall of fame!” he declared. He has been serving the RSL continuously for nearly 60 years, since the days when the sub branch met in the Memorial Hall, and has been closely involved with construction of the clubrooms and its three sets of extensions. His life membership came in 2004 with a gold badge for “exceptional service”. He is also the holder of a meritorious medal and his contributions to meetings have long been regarded as “fair and logical”. Rod, Anne, sub branch vice presi-

He’s famous: Rod Cameron at the Victorian RSL dinner where both he and the Leongatha RSL were awarded top honours. That’s Rod in the middle of the front row. dent David Edwards, senior supervisor Ricky McNaughton and committee member Graeme Heath, attended the awards dinner at Melbourne’s Soﬁtel, with a crowd of 450. Rod was one of six inducted in to the hall of fame. Anne said the criteria for that honour were much the same as those for the sub branch of the year nominations. They include welfare support, home and hospital visits, community sponsor-

ship and funding for equipment at aged care facilities and local hospitals. Six people were inducted into the hall of fame, recognising their extensive involvement in every aspect of sub branch activity. Rod’s association with the Leongatha RSL began in 1956 when he was assistant secretary. He has held every committee position, including treasurer from 1974 to

2006 and became president last year. When then State RSL president Bruce Ruxton came to Leongatha to ofﬁcially open the second series of extensions to the club in 1996, he presented Rod with a certiﬁcate of appreciation in recognition of his time and dedication to the Leongatha RSL. In lodging the nomination for the hall of fame, secretary Anne Davies and vice president Peter Carruthers

said, “Rod’s dedication, unselﬁshness and untiring work for Leongatha RSL over the past approximately 60 years, has been outstanding to say the least. “Although now 85 years young, he still continues to support the sub branch staff and members very ably. “Rod Cameron has been and still is a key ﬁgure in the successful operation of Leongatha RSL and without people of his caliber, success is not assured.”

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 39

Top brass for opening THE State president of the RSL, Major General David McLachlan will ofﬁcially open the extensions to the Leongatha RSL.

He will unveil a plaque to mark the occasion. The last time he was in the area was in July 2008, when he rededicated the Wooreen Avenue of Honour. Costing in the order of $1.8 million, the extensions have added an upstairs ofﬁce, meeting room and administration area and a new downstairs bar. The old downstairs meeting room, ofﬁce and toilets have made way for an extension to the bistro, which can now comfortably accommodate around 120 people. There’s a library too, a quiet room off the foyer, where people will be able to sit, look at display shelves of memorabilia and read or borrow military books that have been either bought by the sub branch or donated. Sub branch secretary Anne Davies said she has applied to the Department of Veterans Affairs for a grant so that an internet café can be installed in the library too. Computers will allow those interested to ac-

cess Australian World War I and World War II records. Staff will be available to help those unfamiliar with the internet. “Bluey” Aeschlimann has been cataloguing the books, which will soon be moved into the library. Anne said she expected the library would become an important resource for those wanting to undertake research. This is the fourth of the building’s extensions. The ﬁrst were in 1993, the next two years later when the clubrooms were renovated and made larger. In 2002, a new reception area, bar and storage were added and provisional additional display of memorabilia were completed. These latest extensions have been underway since 2007. The RSL is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and it’s wise to book if you want to dine there on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday. The sub branch has around 2200 members and employs 30 people, most of whom are part time. But according to president Rod Cameron, each plays a vital part in the well oiled machine.

RSL collection He’s ofﬁcial: Major General David McLachlan, State president of the RSL, will ofﬁcially open the extensions to the Leongatha RSL clubrooms.

THE new library at the Leongatha RSL is off the foyer at the Michael Place entrance. It will open soon as a resource for those interested in military matters. The room is quiet and contains photographs and other memorabilia, which staff member George McMillan is looking at. The sub branch is hoping a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs will pay for some computers.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Big job well worth it LEONGATHA builders Considine and Johnston have undertaken the latest extensions to the RSL clubrooms. The $1.8 million job has gone ahead in various stages over a period of two years. “We’re very proud of it,” said Gary Bullen, C and J’s project manager. “It’s been quite an extensive job for us.” There were several challenges because, as Gary pointed out, the RSL had to keep on running while the refurbishments were going on. “We had to set up a temporary kitchen so that they could keep serving meals. “The staff were very good to get on with because the conditions were

trying for them.” He had a special word of praise for sub branch secretary Anne Davies, who is one of those people in the community who does a power of work but prefers to remain well out of the limelight. Gary said C and J is also proud of the fact that all the tradespeople employed on the job were local. “That’s important.” He’s a keen supporter of the club. “It’s a good facility,” he said, “I’m a member. “It speaks for itself; some nights if you want to go on the spur of the moment, you can’t get in they’re so busy. It proves the standard.” Grant McDonald, from McDonald & Roberts electricians, said the RSL renovations had been one of its

biggest jobs over recent years. “Over the last two years it has been a huge job,” Grant said. Grant said he was pleased to watch the development of a project that would have such a positive effect on the Leongatha community. “It’s been very beneﬁcial to the club and its members,” he said. A unique part of the job has been the illumination of the Bofor’s gun which sits atop the RSL building on the corner of Smith Street and Michael Place. Grant admitted it is pleasing to see the impressive-looking weapon against the night sky. “We also did all the neon signage out the front, which was all brand new, as well as the scene lighting in the alfresco areas.”

Job well done: Gary Bullen (centre) project manager with Considine and Johnston, is pleased to have done business with the Leongatha RSL. He is discussing the end of the two-year extension project with sub branch president Rod Cameron and secretary Anne Davies.

Big job: getting the gun onto the roof of the RSL was only the start of the task. Lighting it at night presented challenges for electricians McDonald &Roberts.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 41

Great place to meet THE Leongatha RSL is a perfect place to lunch or dine. It caters for large groups, small groups, couples, lone diners and anything in between. The atmosphere is friendly, the staff efﬁcient and by all accounts, the food is very good. At this time of year when friends

and family are catching up to celebrate the festive season, the 120-seat bistro is positively humming and senior supervisor Ricky McNaughton is run off his feet. But that doesn’t stop him smiling at everyone and having a convivial joke. Posing for a photograph with the ladies of the Leongatha Red Cross

Unit, Ricky was grabbed for a cuddle with Noreen Williams, and Lily Harris clasped his arm in a friendly gesture. Ricky loved it, so did Noreen and Lily! The hub is also available for a variety of uses such as meetings and training sessions.

Catching up: every December, Leongatha friends Lyn and Norm Burchell (centre) and Bill and Marg Fisher (right) catch up with Brian and Meg Jones, formerly of Wonthaggi, now of Rosebud.

Always friendly: Leongatha RSL senior supervisor Ricky McNaughton with Lily Harris who was enjoying the Red Cross annual break up, which followed their ﬁnal meeting for the year.

Early Christmas: members of the Korumburra Legacy Widows group chose the Leongatha RSL for their Christmas lunch. President Avin Tilley (left) said she and her friends have “a lot of fun”. She is with Sue Loughridge, secretary of the South Gippsland Legacy Group. Left: Decadent: rocky road is one of the delicious desserts.

Enjoying her meal: Korumburra Legacy Widows member Shirley Holland enjoyed her meal at the Leongatha RSL. With her are South Gippsland Legacy Group Legatees Tom Loughridge (left) and Brian Arnold. Brian is group president and Tom a past president.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Dazzling display ST JOSEPH’S Primary School in Korumburra is quickly gaining a reputation for producing high quality art and high quality artists. An exhibition at Coal Creek has given local people an insight into the depth of talent the school boasts. Coal Creek customer service ofﬁcer, Jenny Kimmer said the historical park had been inundated with visitors as word spread of the students’ weird and wonderful creations. “They’ve done a great job. There was a bit of a theme with robots, and very artistic work,” she said. Galley organiser Doug Kane was also blown away by the standard of the work. A long time art aﬁcionado, Mr Kane believes Korumburra may be readying itself for an artistic renaissance, led by a vanguard of wonderkinds. Block printing, line work optical art, 3D art, selfportraits, Picasso oil pastels, Aboriginal dot paintings, papier mache, graph enlargement, shape pattern colour and box constructions were all part of the amazing mix.

Above: Welcome earthling: space robots say come aboard the spaceship of art.

Dot art: Coal Creek volunteer Juliet Klauer was impressed with the great variety of work by the St Joseph’s students. Art included Aboriginal style dot paintings, Andy Warhol takes on Pop Art, papier mache sculptures, dolls and much more.

New exhibitions: Korumburra art dealer Doug Kane has taken the Coal Creek auditorium under his wing as the village’s community gallery. Already three exhibitions have been held, including the St Joseph’s display, with many more new exhibitions to come.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 43

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 45

Our spirit of giving By Matt Dunn LIFE is getting harder for a lot of local families. For many people the global ﬁnancial crisis is more than just an alarmist term bandied around on the news. The effects of the economic slowdown have had very real human consequences, something that is felt even more keenly at Christmas time. President of the St Vincent de Paul Leongatha chapter, Elizabeth McKeown said many local families are ﬁnding the going tough, with the charity reporting a big leap in people asking for help. “It has got tougher. We’ve had a lot more people looking for help,” she said. Fortunately, the spirit of giving is alive and well in Leongatha, with local businesses teaming up with St Vincent de Paul to make sure Christmas is a little bit brighter for struggling families.

The pre-Christmas hamper delivery became a regular ﬁxture on the charity calendar, when Langdon Chiropractic Clinic started buying up toys at a discount price from Toyworld in Leongatha. This year Café Number 9 Dream has also come on board, donating money to the cause. Manager Rick Rutjens, Claire, Mel and Lauren all put their hands in their pockets. The staff of Body Kneads also did their bit. Toyworld salesperson Kerry McLeod, who helped co-ordinate the packing of the toys, said it was all about the kids. “There’s some underprivileged children who will celebrate Christmas through having a gift under the tree. It’s great those few businesses help out,” she said. The toys and food are packed into hampers for delivery by St Vinnies, whose volunteers work around the clock to make sure families are not left wanting. “Every year we deliver about

100 hampers to the people who have come to see us throughout the year. Lorcan Heneghan, from the Langdon Chiropractic Clinic, said he’d like to donate some toys and it’s continued on from there,” Elizabeth said. “I think it’s important. It’s a tough time – it has been throughout the year really. Always at Christmas there’s a bit of extra pressure on families. “It’s always a lovely time when you deliver the hampers, because some people aren’t expecting what we deliver.” Elizabeth said there were 16 volunteers working hard to get the hampers put together and make the deliveries. “We’ve got a big group and they get a lot out of it. It’s the act of giving. I think it’s important to take the time out to go and deliver the hampers. It’s good to get the spirit of Christmas.” The hampers are being packed now and will be delivered from the second week of December. “It’s quite a busy time, but it’s also a good time.”

Santa’s helpers: standing, from left, St Vincent’s Frank Shaw, Elizabeth McKeown, Kevin O’Brien, Meg Shaw, Mary Patterson, Landon Chiropractic Clinic’s Lorcan Heneghan and son James, Body Knead’s Janean Bright, St Vincent’s Josie Bleeser, Body Knead’s Katrina Spark, St Vincent’s Angelina Polato and John Casey; kneeling, St Vincent’s Leo Bleeser.

Right tools for the job Leongatha Lions travelled to Marysville recently to view the devastation left by the bushfires. President Geoff Heide writes that members were inspired to help where they could and thought collecting for the tool library would be a great idea. ON Sunday, November 22 a bus load of Lions Club members, primarily from Leongatha with some from Inverloch and Mirboo North, travelled to Marysville by bus, kindly supplied by Burges. Although our clubs assisted organisations and victims of the bushfire in the Mirboo North, Boolarra and Traralgon South areas, the purpose of the trip was to meet with Marysville and District Lions Club members and gain first hand knowledge of conditions there, and assist a club that had lost three of its members in the fire. Driving down the main street of Marysville, the devastation was immediately obvious. For anyone not familiar with Marysville, a descriptive picture could be something like the main street of Meeniyan, with only a couple of shops still standing, the remainder just empty Helping hand: Lions club president Geoff Heide blocks where shops once stood. (right) with Marysville Lion Norm Fiske. Behind the main street there was more emp-

ty land where houses once stood, interspersed with 14 houses that escaped the ﬁre, and 28 new houses in various stages of completion. Club members became acquainted with each other over a barbecue lunch, partly supplied by another visiting club from Sunshine, simply because of the lack of shops in Marysville. Accommodation is made up of 55 one and two bedroom units, called Flat Packs (because of their method of construction) and 30 miners quarters huts called Dongers, supplied by Fortescue Mining and transported from Western Australia. Other large on-site sheds provide community cooking and meeting facilities, house storage lockers for families’ personal possessions, government agencies and a tool library operated by Lion Norm Fiske. Norm lends out tools to anyone affected by the ﬁre. The borrower returns the tools to the tool library after using them. The Lions Club of Leongatha would like

to assist Lion Norm with his tool library by asking for donations of tools or money to buy tools. He has a pressing need for painter’s trestles (must be in sound condition), petrol driven whipper snippers, leaf blowers and mulchers. Petrol driven equipment is preferred because in many instances power is not available; small pressure washers, hand tools and garden implements. Any tools will be accepted and electrical tools will be certiﬁed before they are taken to Marysville. Not forgetting our local area, any tool surplus to Norm’s needs at Marysville will be given to the Yinnar Lions Club to be used by the Boolarra Yinnar Fire Recovery Group. Anyone who has tools to give, or money to donate to purchase tools, can ring Lion Ron Campbell on 5662 2857, mobile 0408 033 238. Tools can be picked up in local area or dropped off at Ron’s residence, 21 Blackmore Avenue, Leongatha.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Noise of the schoolyard By Chris Brown

at Mirboo North Primary School.

ON a recent Tuesday morning about 10 Grade 3 students surround gas bottle connection pipes

They were concentrating very hard as someone pushed the pipes so they would rattle and make some noise. A few children have digital cameras draped around their necks while others

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star One year ago, December 9, 2008 South Gippsland Shire Council has asked the State Government to declare the municipality a zone free of genetically-modified crops but the request looks unlikely to be blessed. A government spokesperson said the government aims to allow every Victorian farmer to choose their own crops. **** Plans are underway to make Dumbalk an equestrian hub. The Tarwin Valley Campdraft Club plans to host an event to lure hundreds of people to town. Five years ago, December 7, 2004 A camper trailer was engulfed by flames at the Yanakie Caravan Park and staff were left without a firefighting system to tackle the blaze. The system is faulty and has been cut off from water supply for six months. **** Bass Coast Shire Mayor Cr John Hulley has vowed to lay in front of bulldozers to stop construction of a wind farm at Wonthaggi. “When the time comes, there will be a bar-

ricade,” he said. 10 years ago, December 7, 1999 Nyora dairy farmer Lyn Mitchard has won a Victorian Landcare accolade. She received the Cotton Australia Landcare Primary Producer Award in honour of her land management and sustainable farming techniques. **** Gerry Heffernan is retiring as principal of Inverloch Primary School after 17 years in the job. He will miss students and has labelled the current generation of teachers as the hardest working he has seen in more than 30 years working in education. 30 years ago, December 11, 1979 A sound shell could be built at Moss Vale Park at Berrys Creek. Woorayl Shire Council has asked the Ministry for the Arts to fund the facility before the State Concert Orchestra visits next February. **** The Friendly Circle group continues to meet in Leongatha after more than 40 years of such gatherings. Members have raised thousands of dollars for charities over the years.

wear headphones and hold digital sound recorders. Then the students moved onto a loose metal post nearby and it also made a sound as it was touched. At each stop in the schoolyard the students take photos and record sounds, which are taken back to a renovated 1960s caravan and used to create a multisensory art environment. Vibration, light and sounds are used to add to the experience. It was part of a “Good Vibrations” activity organised through the Department of Education for students in bushfire areas. Two educators and two technicians travelled to the region from the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney to run the art access project. It’s the first time the project and caravan has been out of New South Wales. The caravan had to be brought down on a truck. Students usually enjoy their sensory experience. For many of them it might be the first time they have recorded sounds with professional equipment. When they hear the crystal clear sound of a flower being picked, a smile of delight often appears on their face. The workshop at Mirboo North was specifically designed to help children in a creative way in the lead-up to the one year anniversary of the bushfire disaster. It was supported by Deutsche Bank. Manager, Education at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Emma Nicolson said good vibes helps develop listening, talking, investigation and collaboration skills.

Looking for sounds: back: Jayred and Josh; front: Trevor and Riley, have found a loose post that makes a noise. QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8200

Church Times ARIES - March 21 - April 20

Surprise guests and new business ideas highlight the week. Don’t take on new obligations without soul searching and consultation. Enjoy creative projects through the weekend. TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

Plan your week carefully and watch out for people making acceptances on your behalf. Be more tactful, even friendly with distant relatives. GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

It’s a chatty week, with business conferences and juicy gossip featured. There may be a ﬁnancial gain by the weekend and a surprise visit earlier in the week. CANCER - June 22 - July 22

The week generally favours acquisitions - anything from picking up a new piece of furniture to ﬁnding a stray dog. Some roadblocks at the work place, but romance is on the upswing. LEO - July 23 - August 22

Healthy competition makes the week a success. A friend’s ego can use a good boost, appeal to the sentimental side. There may be possible friction with neighbours on the weekend. VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

This is a creatively bright week. Good for commencing major projects. Healthwise it’s easy for you to catch things. Family decisions affect you after the weekend. An expected promotion may be delayed. LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

Romantically a mellow week, but watch the tendency to give in too much. Plans may have to be shelved until the beginning of next month. The moneybelt can ﬁnally be eased a little. SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

Wherever you ﬁnd yourself, you ﬁnd yourself in the centre of attention. Watch out for moods, a loved one may be tense, a child may be sulking. Teamwork is emphasised on the weekend. SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

Forgetful moments are sprinkled through the week, leading to a touch of embarrassment. The romantic picture gets much more complex but there’s hardly a cause for concern. CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

Your greatest enjoyment now is with groups. Be more conservative at work, less so in your personal relationships. An important agreement may have to be postponed. New friendships blossom. AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

Generally, your luckiest week in months. It’s also a time to be more receptive to loved ones and much more patient when dealing with complaining friends. PISCES - February 20 - March 20

This is a great week for a celebration, whether or not there’s an occasion. Investigation should be the week’s policy - question prices, motives or anything too good to be true. BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are said to be ﬁfty years ahead of your time and next year your ideas will be more advanced than ever. Financial gains are indicated. For romance’s sake, be more honest in expressing your feelings.

ANGLICAN: Tuesday, December 8: 7pm St Andrew’s Dumbalk / St David’s, Meeniyan Fellowship. Wednesday, December 9: 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Sunday, December 13: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Exploring Worship; 10.30am Union Church, Tarwin Lower HC. ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am. ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am. ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion. CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984. 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. 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. All enquiries contact Pastor David Stegmann 5662 2785. 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; Kids Club Thursdays

4pm Guide Hall. For all enquiries contact 5664 5455. 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 WOMEN’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 Senior Citizens Centre, 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 Martyn and Heather Scrimshaw, 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. Teaching service at 7.30pm. Fortnightly youth activities. Home Bible Fellowship groups. Contact 5662 2762. Minister: Rev. Ron Nauta. UNITING CHURCH: Leongatha: Sunday, December 13, Combined Service 10am. 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. Geoff Smith and Rev. Jim Foley, 5655 1997. 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.

1. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 14. 18. 20. 23. 24. 25.

ACROSS Flower (13) Bird (5) Passage (7) Scream (6) Abuse (6) Cinder (5) Exhausted (5) Distburbance (6) Eraser (6) Cruel (7) Hang (5) Aplomb (4-9)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 13. 15. 16. 17. 19. 21. 22.

DOWN Stroke (6) Stream (5) Genuine (7) Pleasant (4) Throw (5) House (7) Fish (6) Official (7) Loot (7) Game (6) Mourn (6) Dance (5) Intellect (5) Burden (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8200 ACROSS 1. Is it why gentlemen prefer blondes? (4,2,3,4). 8. So do turn right to go through the openings (5). 9. To have a few triumphs would be delightful (7). 10. Was raised about a foot, one said, when it wasn’t (6). 11. Alter to “The clergyman is English” (6). 12. From the hospital, Sean totters out pale (5). 14. “A guide For The American Woman” (5). 18. Pass the jellied eels and pop back inside (6). 20. It could be spring water, child (6). 23. Not doing the rounds, which is strange (3-4). 24. The foolish girl took none on leaving (5). 25. Insect towering over its offspring? (5-44). DOWN 1. Toy instrument (6). 2. Apart from a twit standing underneath (5). 3. Be getting the cones remodelled in blue (7). 4. Have little time over to see the burg (4). 5. Before night starts in, you’ll see him (5). 6. One holds on to it inside. It’s poisonous (7). 7. Will he never lose his job? (6). 13. Handed? (7). 15. Trying to find, you understand, the top man (7). 16. Support number two? (6). 17. Deduces the fellow got the reins twisted round (6). 19. Looking disreputable and off-colour (5). 21. How long the wee earthquake lasted? (5). 22. Having to get up to follow him (4).

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 47

Charlie’s dancing feat By Chris Brown CHARLIE Lynch is a dancing champion. The 10-year-old Mirboo North resident was a member of a winning team at the Australian Irish Dancing Association 2009 Australian championships recently. Charlie was a member of a team of 16 children competing in the junior ﬁgure dance category. Think of Riverdance to get a picture of what this dance looks like. It’s very rhythmic with lines and patterns and mainly using the legs. Every Saturday Charlie is driven to the Christine Ayres School of Irish Dancing where she spends two and a half hours learning and practising. Before competitions this session

can take five hours. Charlie had a friend at her old school learning Irish dance. “It looked fun,” she said. So she wanted to give it a try. “It’s not easy to learn, but once you know it’s pretty easy,” Charlie said. Three and a half years later she’s still working hard at it and obviously succeeding. Charlie’s commitment to Irish dancing is demonstrated in that fact she practices every day at home. Charlie’s mother, Liz Radcliffe, said she came home from school one day and said she wanted to do Irish dancing. “It took me a long time to find an Irish dancing school,” Liz said. “I didn’t know the first thing

about it.” Charlie is very musical and enjoys the camaraderie of dancing. “She does solo and team dancing, and she really enjoys the team aspect of it,” Liz said. “When they won the Victorian championship, everyone was very excited that they were getting to compete at the national level. “It was certainly something the kids and teacher had worked really hard to achieve a high standard of dance.” Saturday is the only day of the week Charlie gets up without arguing so she can go to practice. “I guess we’ll keep doing it as long as she is enjoying it,” Liz said.

Mirboo North resident Charlie Lynch with the trophy her dance team won at the Irish championships.

Winning ways: children, including Charlie Lynch, perform Irish dancing.

Artistically speaking at St Joes THE St Josephs Wonthaggi Art Show was a huge success last week, with parents, grandparents, friends and children clamouring to view the best works on offer from the school’s students. The quality of the art was astounding, speaking volumes about the depths of talent at the school.

Students used various artistic techniques, and created self-portraits, abstract works, weavings, paper ﬂowers, computer generated images and oil paintings. A giant paper mache and plaster volcano was a particular feature of the exhibition, made by Grade 5 students, with the help of Mr Osbaldeston.

The mask: Isabella with a mask she made from a rich variety of materials. Left: Not angry: Grade 5 student Nathan was quite unlike his aggressive subject.

Brilliant display: Elise shows off one of her works, which was featured in the show.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Back to the AgFutures forum INTEREST is growing among Gippsland farmers keen to gain an insight from Department of Primary Industries (DPI) AgFutures forums on the strategic decisions

needed for adapting their businesses to changes affecting agriculture in their region. DPI AgFutures Project Ofﬁcer, Karen Thomas said that as an example this

year, Bass Coast hosted three forums that explored the issues of climate and land use changes. “For our follow up session, farmers wanted to drill down into grazing viability and the growing issue of residential lifestyle

Focus on a Foster farm THE Foster Focus Farm commenced in October and the support group of more than 20 local farmers has had two meetings, reviewing and planning the season. The farm owners are Kevin and Helen Jones who milk 360 cows on 125 hectares assisted by their children Mitchell and Katie, and farm employee Justin Dubignon. It is a tough year to be a Focus Farm considering the milk price decline and what has been a fairly ordinary late winter and spring. The farm budget certainly looks better than at the start of this year given recent upward movements in milk price, especially from January 2010. The downward movement in grain prices

is helping too. These changing circumstances in addition to the farm’s financial position will be discussed at the Focus Farm’s first field day to be held on December 14 from 11am until 1pm. The farm is at Cargeegs Road, Foster, just off the South Gippsland Highway. The Jones family has progressed from a small share on 125 cows in 1994 through to herd ownership, farm leasing and eventually farm ownership in conjunction with the bank. The farm has a debt in the vicinity of $1.8 million. All dairy farmers and anyone interested in the dairy industry are welcome to attend this open field day. For further information contact John Gallienne 0407 863 493 or John Mulvany 0409 935 578.

VLE LEONGATHA KOONWARRA

Sale Draw December 9 1. Landmark 2. Rodwells 3. SEJ 4. David Phelan & Co 5. Elders 6. Alex Scott

properties being developed in land traditionally utilised by grazing industries,” Ms Thomas said. “To address these issues, we brought in two experts, Ross Batten from DPI’s Meat and Wool team and Martin Gill from Bass Coast Shire Council.” Ross Batten told the forum that good farmers are naturally strategic planners that constantly think about outcomes for the future. He challenged the participants to think differently about the way they operate and crunch their numbers, and said it was possible to make money from farming. “To do this, you must be fully informed and you need to understand the laws

of supply and demand, and market competition,” he said. “Farmers that do well understand the risks of income generation, and make fully informed, conﬁdent decisions based on facts and information available to them at the time. “Coping with change requires the ability to separate emotional decisions from business decisions, especially in a bad season.” Details of a new series of AgFutures forums for Gippsland will be announced in early 2010. For more information on the DPI AgFutures program please contact Karen Thomas on 0488 372 411.

VLE store sale Thursday, December 3 Total yarding: Bull vealer - 3 av. $326.67, cows - 19 av. $535.26, cows and calves - 61 av. $747.28, heifers - 337 av. $385.24, steers - 820 av. $538.74. Bull vealer B. & N. Shandley, 1 x $380; W.A. Jones, 2 x $300. Cows D. Barrett, 5 x $610, 2 x $414; Miracai Partnership, Bombala, 3 x $565; Gunningham Pty Ltd, Bombala, 3 x $555; D. Barrett, 4 x $498; J.A. & E.G. Collins, 2 x $470. Cows and calves D. Sutton, 4 x $980, 10 x $900; W.V. McInerney, Wonthaggi, 3 x $840; D. Barrett, 1 x $806; J.A. & E.G. Collins, 11 x $770; Tim Wallace, 1 x $760; J.A. & E.G. Collins, 8 x $760, 1 x $710; A.J. Fahey, Hedley, 2 x $740; C.D. Kelly,

Leongatha, 2 x $690. Heifers J.T. Sibly Pastoral, Archies Creek, 4 x $560, 11 x $482; P.M., J.A. & V.R. Johnston, Mirboo North, 5 x $545, 13 x $532, 4 x $510, 6 x $470; Gunningham Pty Ltd, Bombala, 15 x $530; N.R. & L.J. Andrews, Mirboo, 8 x $510; J. Brown, The Gurdies, 10 x $485; G. Myrteza, Thorpdale, 1 x $460. Steers Y. Nicholson, 3 x $865; B., R. & L. Stuchberry, 3 x $865; C. & J. Lester, 8 x $820; J.D. & K.E. Dell, Kardella South, 12 x $795; C.L. & M. Agars, Toora, 1 x $790; I. & R. Hengstberger, Dumbalk North, 6 x $785, 11 x $755; A.D. & F.J. Baker, Mirboo North, 14 x $778; Rivernook Past Co, 15 x $750; K.K. & J.B. Graham, Mirboo, 1 x $750.

Dearer trend for all cattle DESPITE there being a slight increase in supply, demand was stronger and most cattle sold at rates that were 1c to 7c/kg dearer at VLE Leongatha. Most affected were yearling heifers, which have suffered greatly over the past few weeks. Even though sales were 3c to 7c/kg higher, prices still remained below 150c, ranging from 120c to 149c/kg. Heavy yearlings, which weighed over 600kgs lwt, made an equal top price with bullocks of 156.2c/kg. The 4c to 5c lift in average prices came from sales that were generally between 148c and 154c/kg. Crossbred bullocks made from 140c to 148c, and Friesians made between 127c and 138c/kg. Cow prices increased also, with better quality beef cows making from 122c to 136c/g. Some of the larger increases were seen for sales of larger frame dairy cows, which made from 115c to 130c/kg. Lighter and leaner cows made mostly from 105c to 124c/kg.

Wednesday, December 2 BULLOCKS 13 L. Giardina, Thorpdale 14 R.J. & C.M. McGill, Outtrim 3 J.F. & R.D. Richardson, Toora 13 P. & M. Batters, Woodside 13 P. Alicata, Thorpdale 14 L. & M. Wicks, Yinnar

678 667 560 584 583 700

156.2 1059.00 156.2 1043.00 156.0 873.60 155.2 906.00 155.0 903.00 154.0 1078.00

STEERS 1 V.J. Churchill, Woolamai 1 N. & R. Kubale, Drumdlemara 4 J.F. & R.D. Richardson, Toora 14 R. & A. Greenwood, Koonwarra 7 R. Alger, Outtrim 1 D. Bye, Bedgeree

345 350 501 549 574 395

170.0 165.6 156.0 156.0 154.6 154.6

COWS 4 D.R. Ginn, Inverloch 1 J.W. & M. Kee, Yarram 2 B.S. Cantwell Lstk, Toora 1 A.G. Highﬁeld, Binginwarri 1 M.L. Doherty, Leongatha South 1 Benola Holdings, Drumdlemara

756 615 518 370 810 705

135.6 1025.48 133.0 817.95 133.0 688.28 132.0 488.40 132.0 1069.20 130.0 916.50

420 355 445 425 530 485

153.0 150.6 150.0 149.6 148.6 148.6

643.60 534.63 667.50 635.80 787.58 720.71

975 770 1055 985 1010 905

158.0 152.0 149.2 148.0 146.6 145.0

1540.50 1170.40 1574.06 1457.80 1480.66 1312.25

HEIFERS 1 S.P. Kelly, Leongatha 1 K. Taylor, Drumdlemara 1 M.J. & P.J. Hammond, Childers 1 B.S. Cantwell Lstk, Toora 1 W. Bullock, Nerrena 1 E.J. & B.A. Price, Koonwarra BULLS 1 G. Bond, Leongatha 1 Brewers Dairy P/L, Toora 1 R.A. & M.P. Benson, Bena 1 P.H., N.F. & D.P. Moore, Yarram 1 T.J. & J.M. Hayward, Leongatha South 1 L.C. & G.L. Anthony, Meeniyan

586.50 579.60 781.95 857.00 887.00 610.67

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 49

Making a mark locally By Chris Brown

LANDMARK’S managing director was in Leongatha last week. It was Graeme Jacobs’ last stop on the company’s explain and listen tour

that visited ﬁve states, 17 centres and involved nearly 1000 employees. He spoke about the rural services group’s performance in 2009, the outlook for 2010 and forthcoming changes in the business.

Among them is a $30 million information platform, which Mr Jacobs said will create a whole new client experience. “The clients will end up getting paperwork that actually means something,

Landmark Leongatha: branch manager Barry Svenson and Landmark managing director Graeme Jacobs last week.

so we’ll delight their socks off I suspect,” he said. The Melbourne-based Mr Jacobs, has been in the position for almost three years. He visits the region frequently to holiday at Cape Paterson. This year was difﬁcult for all rural services companies, according to Mr Jacobs. “The most important driver of performance last year was the price of fertiliser and price of chemical inputs,” he said. “Those prices reduced quite signiﬁcantly during the year and there was a lot of high priced inventory left in the supply chain. That’s gone now. “So we’re looking

forward to 2010 and should return to some normality in terms of fertiliser and chemical application.” He sees a strong Australian dollar as the only possible dark cloud next year. “If the Australian dollar is at parity with the greenback it makes beef, wool and milk products from Latin America a lot more competitive,” he said. Otherwise Mr Jacobs is optimistic about next year. “I’m positive for two simple reasons. The ﬁrst is that Australian farmers have genuine scale, they’re world competitive and very adaptable,” he said. “The second reason is

what’s happening up in China and Asia. There’s more than 50 per cent of the world’s population growth, more than 40 per cent of the world’s economic growth and the change from rural living to urbanisation is going to drive consumption of protein that’s unprecedented. “From a logistics perspective a cultural Australia is best suited to delivering that.” Locally, Mr Jacobs

said based on current performance Landmark branches at Foster and Poowong would remain open. “Plans are currently about investing in the stores,” he said. “My view on this region is that there’s reliable rainfall and productive farmers. “Of all the regions in Australia this is going to be one of the more certain places, aside from the vagaries of milk prices.”

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Classifieds public notices

public notices

POOWONG, LOCH & NYORA SEWERAGE SCHEME Opportunity to View Draft Designs & Discuss Your Sewerage Connection with South Gippsland Water Staff. South Gippsland Water has recently received the draft designs for the Poowong, Loch & Nyora Sewerage Scheme reticulation pipework. All property owners in the proposed sewerage district are invited to view the plans and discuss them “one to one” with our engineering staff. South Gippsland Water is seeking your feedback so that it can be factored into the next phase of this exciting project.

When Wednesday December 9th Thursday December 10th Friday December 11th

Where Nyora Public Hall Poowong Public Hall Loch Public Hall

public notices

ALL HOME LOANS & NO DEPOSIT LOANS - 1ST HOME BUYERS Ring (03)9395-5544.

Time 2pm - 7pm 2pm - 6pm 2pm - 6pm

ANDERSON INLET ANGLING CLUB

MARKET DAY at the

ANGLING CLUB Sunday, January 3, 2010

Open to the general public 7.30am Stallholders wanted Sites filling fast CONTACT: 5674 2409

SING NOEL THE SOUTH GIPPSLAND SINGERS present their

For more information, or to make other arrangements to give your feedback, call 1300 851 636 or 5682 0444 or Email: sgwater@sgwater.com.au

Annual Christmas Concert AT THE DAKERS CENTRE LEONGATHA Sunday, December 13 at 4pm

Adults $12 - children free

Community Announcement SP AusNet Electricity Network Reliability Targets for 2010 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 Essential Services Commission and as part of our commitment to customer service we’re aiming for the following targets in 2010: 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 planned interruptions per year (PSAIDI)

16 minutes

35 minutes

70 minutes

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

109 minutes

185 minutes

300 minutes

Measure for 2010

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

0.09

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

1.82

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

60 minutes

68 minutes

70 minutes

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

3.5

5.9

13.5

0.15

2.73

0.30

4.28

SP AusNet aims to maintain a high level of reliability. In the event that we do not meet reliability thresholds established by the Essential Services Commission, some customers (approximately 70,000 in 2009) 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/514LVE

THE ORGANIC HAIR & BEAUTY SALON: 150 Bald Hills Road, Tarwin Lower, Deanne Dakers. Ph. 5663-5439, website: www. theorganicbeautysalon. com

KONGWAK MARKET

Sunday, December 13 10am onwards Inside & out Collectables, Retro, Vintage, books, plants, produce, Italian delights for lunch, wine, coffee, live music and more ... Market CLOSED Sunday, December 20 RE-OPENS Sunday, December 27 For more info 0417 142 478 Kongwak Market is a smoke free event

DEADLINE The next edition of Gippy Buy Sell & Trade is this coming Sunday Phone 5145 1269 Free advertising for private sellers

public notices

WOORAYL Lodge Fete raffle results: 1st Rosemary Gwynne, 2nd Sarah Edney, 3rd Sarah Battersby.

CHIROPRACTOR

Garry Harrison 19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday

public notices

Mirboo North COUNTRY MARKET Baromi Park 8.30am - 1pm

Last Saturday in each month Stalls may be set up from 7.30am Plants, toys, bric-a-brac, books, crafts, flowers

Contact Maxine 5668 2465

Berries for sale U PICK

By appointment Ph: 5674 8290

In Leongatha 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

BUSHFIRES & YOUR WATER SUPPLY

Jenny & Geoff Martin

for sale

CHRISTMAS TREES, Leongatha Fire Station, December 12 and 13, 8.30am - 3pm.

CHRISTMAS COOKING: Premium quality glac pineapple, peach, pear, apricot, orange, cherries and more. Quality dried fruits and nuts, flour. Christmas cake packs already weighed to bake. Organic fruit and vegetables at Leongatha Health Foods.

CHRISTMAS cards, books, gifts, CDs. Available New Beginnings Christian Books, opp. IGA carpark Leongatha. 5662-0999.

COUCH, 2 seater, as new, fabric, $250. Ph: 5662-4941.

0407 343 870 0409 179 011

FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408-980711, A/H 5662-5175

Gippy Waste

HAY MOWER - Lily 8ft, little use, good condition, $5,500 inc. GST. Ph: 5662-4021.

Cleaning • Septic Tanks • Portable Toilets • Water Tanks Phone Stephen

0422 998 025 1800 611 368

for sale

HAY for sale, squares, new season’s, no weeds. Ring 5664-7288.

HAY - round bales, this season, good quality, Outtrim, $60 each. Ph: 0419-313483.

HAY New season oaten, small sq. and 5x4 rounds. Top quality. Ph: 0438056987.

HEN HOUSES, fox proof, good quality, 6-8 chooks. The Perfect Henhouse. Ph: 5664-2443.

Customers should be aware that in the event of a bushfire South Gippsland Water cannot guarantee to maintain water pressure or an uninterrupted water supply. Power outages are common during bushfires and loss of electricity will cause our pumps in a number of supply systems to stop - reducing pressure or ceasing flow altogether. Even with our emergency generators, high demand for water for fire fighting may cause a severe drop in pressure. When making your fire plan be prepared with an independent water supply.

LAB pup, 1 black female 8wks old, very friendly, chocolate mother, golden father. Both parents on view. $200. 0429-029568.

MOBILITY SCOOTER, 4 wheel suspension, luxury model, lights etc., new June 09, unused. Cost $3,900, sell $2,350. Can deliver. Ph: 0405-170994.

OFFICE BUILDING, weatherboard, iron roof, 12.5ft wide x 19ft length. Heating and cooling, ceiling fan, fluro lights, security grilles on windows, security door at one end. Good cond. Buyer must remove. $6,800. Ph: 0457-303150.

SOUTH GIPPSLAND WATER RECOMMENDS YOU CONSULT THE CFA ABOUT PREPARING YOUR FAMILY AND HOME FOR A BUSHFIRE.

PAVERS, 500 red to grey, 200mm x 230mm, $350 the lot. Ph: 5668-6331 or 0431655698.

Parks Victoria advises...

VACUUM CLEANER Repairs

Spartina control

DUST BAGS

Parks Victoria is committed to protecting and enhancing the natural values of parks and reserves across the state.

Sales

FREE

Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority have joined forces to help eradicate Spartina, a major environmental grass weed of estuarine wetlands in Victoria.

QUOTES

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

5672 3127

Spartina represents a major threat to the feeding grounds of wader birds and fish stocks by changing the natural processes of these estuaries.

2 ACRES, Poowong, red soil, house permit, $135,000. Ph: 5942-5327.

Aerial spraying of Spartina will commence on Tuesday 8 December 2009 in the following locations:

BERRIES, BERRIES. Pick your own at Yileen Berry Farm, 1345 Yarragon/ Leongatha Road, Hallston. Ph: 5668-5268.

• Corner Inlet • Shallow Inlet • Andersons Inlet • Bass River • Western Port Operational details may be obtained from the Parks Victoria Foster office by calling Parks Victoria on 13 1963.

mitch34066

public notices

PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350

Sell it in the "Star"

CARAVAN, 2000 Royal Flair, Van Royce Series 2, 20ft, ex cond, microwave, full fridge/freezer, Electrolux air cond, gas stove, rangehood, double bed, couch/s.bed, table and seats. Plenty storage. Full annex (new). $24,500. Ph: 0457-303150.

PUPS, Kelpie 4-5 months, 2F, vacc., started obedience training, $200 each ONO. Ph: 0417-141559 Nerrena.

PUPS - King Charles Cavalier, ready for Christmas! 1 x 6 mths old male, tri; 1 x 8 week female, tri; 2 x 8 week tri males; 2 x 6 week male red/white, 3 x 4 week old 2M/1F, 2 tri and one red/white. $450 each. Ph: 5687-1323 or 0458871234.

QUILTING material, 100% cotton, $5 - $10 per metre, various colours. Phone Irene 5683-2484.

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.

WINCHBAR, suit HZJ-75, good condition $500. 0429687283.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 51

garage sales

situations vacant

GARAGE SALE

EXPERIENCED DAIRY HAND

Saturday, December 12 7 Owen Street LEONGATHA 8am

situations vacant

INVERLOCH AREA Position available to milk 300 cows in 20 s.o. dairy Duties include milking, strip grazing, herd health and feeding. Able to find other duties to suit couple. Contact 0428 623 427

Moving interstate everything must go

GARAGE SALE 61 Turner Street LEONGATHA

Saturday, December 12 9am - 3pm Household goods, TVs, toys, furniture

GARAGE SALE 60 Chamberlain Dr LEONGATHA

Saturday, December 12 8am - 2pm Baby clothes, bric-a-brac, saddle, LPs And lots more LEONGATHA, 1 Griffin Road, Saturday, December 12, 8.30am. Toys, books, furniture, bric-a-brac, tools.

situations vacant

FARM HAND - A full time position is available for a reliable, honest person on 500-herd dairy farm in South Gippsland. Duties include all aspects of farming. Must have current driver’s licence. Call 0427635435.

RN DIVISION 2 NURSE PART TIME POSITIONS .52 EFT Minimum 40 hours per fortnight (minimum)

situations vacant

NEWHAVEN COLLEGE In Quietness and Conﬁdence Shall Be Your Strength

DAIRY FARM MANAGER/CONTRACTOR Lang Lang An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced person/couple to provide all labour and management for a 340 cow autumn calving herd. Caldermeade dairy is open to the public; it has a high focus on animal welfare as well as maintaining a high level of production (195,000 kg MS). 168 ha farm, well set up and sub-divided with 50 unit rotary. Cosy 3 BR house on farm. Close to schools. Excellent, secure package offered to successful applicants. Expressions of interest close 21st Dec 09. For position description contact: Max Jelbart 0428 314 312 or maxwellj@tpg.com.au www.caldermeadecafe.com.au

VISITING INSTRUMENTAL TEACHER of GUITAR 1.5 days a week, to commence in term one, 2010. Potential for increase in hours (dependent on Music enrolments). Applicants need to be experienced, enthusiastic, and have the ability to teach both contemporary and classical styles on acoustic and electric guitar. CV and names of three referees to: Mrs Elaine Epifano, Director of Music Newhaven College Boys Home Road, Newhaven, 3925 Ph: 5956 7505 Fax: 5956 7131 email: epifanoe@newhavencol.vic.edu.au www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au Applications close: Wednesday 16 December 2009

An Independent Co-Educational School on Phillip Island, Prep to Year 12

All tours of duty Gippsland Southern Health Service seeks applications for the above positions which will be primarily based at Korumburra, however applicants must be prepared to work in all areas of the organisation. The successful applicant should possess the following qualifications/ experience: • Current registration with Nurses Board Victoria with medication endorsement • Recent clinical experience • Evidence of recent professional development. • Demonstrated ability to work with others and effective interpersonal skills • Proficient written and communication skills • Ability to implement required tasks in allocated time frames GSHS offers a comprehensive orientation program on commencement of employment. All nursing staff have access to excellent staff mentoring, education and support programs. Salary Packaging is available to all permanent staff. All applicants will be required to supply a current satisfactory police check. If you are interested in joining a supportive and progressive team please contact the Personnel Manager, Janet Arrott-Watt on 5667 5503 to obtain an application kit. Applicants are also encouraged to contact Neil Langstaff on 5667 5507 to discuss the employment opportunities at GSHS. Completed application kits can be forwarded by Thursday, December 17, 2009 to: Mr Neil Langstaff Director of Nursing Inpatient/Residential Care Gippsland Southern Health Service Private Bag 13 LEONGATHA VIC 3953

situations vacant

REGISTERED NURSE DIVISION 2 ENHANCED PRACTISE PROGRAM Commencing February 2010 0.5 EFT Limited Tenure (12 months) 4 positions available An exciting opportunity exists for RN Division 2 nurses and recently graduated Division 2 nurses to enhance their clinical practice. We are seeking candidates, preferably with medication endorsement or working toward the same to develop skills with placements in Acute, Medical/Surgical and Residential Care. The successful candidates will be required to provide a current, satisfactory police check. If you are interested in joining a supportive and progressive team please contact the Executive Assistant on (03) 5667 5504 for a position description and an application kit, or alternatively these can be downloaded from our website at www.gha.net.au/gshs All enquiries should be directed to the Director of Nursing, Neil Langstaff on 5667 5507. Informal enquiries in strict confidence are also welcome. Applications close on Thursday, December 17, 2009 Mr Neil Langstaff Director of Nursing Inpatient/Residential Care Gippsland Southern Health Service Private Bag 13 LEONGATHA VIC 3953

Field Service Officer Gippsland / South Gippsland United Dairy Power is Australia’s largest independent supplier of liquid ingredients on the Australian Marketplace. We are currently looking for a Field Officer to service all of our farms located in the Gippsland and South Gippsland region. The ideal applicant will have experience in extension or field work, and in particular knowledge and application of a working dairy farm. This role is the face of UDP on farm to our suppliers. We are extremely proud of our suppliers, and their on-farm quality, having achieved the highest quality awards this season, awarded by Countdown Downunder. You will need to have effective communication skills, providing knowledge and experience to farmers, and the ability to work independently. Salary is negotiable, commensurate with experience, and will include an FMCV, mobile phone and laptop computer. Please forward written applications, with CV to: United Dairy Power Field Service Officer Position Gippsland Suite A, 150 Albert Road South Melbourne, 3205

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

situations vacant

Hire Controller WONTHAGGI

SALES CONSULTANT WONTHAGGI SHOWROOM A position exists for a Sales Consultant in our Wonthaggi Showroom. Reporting to the Showroom Manager, you will maintain the showroom and displays, provide information to customers on the range of Capeview products, co-ordinate the installation of completed orders and assist with the preparation of quotes. You will have outstanding customer service abilities, articulate communication skills and a high standard of personal presentation. You will be a confident communicator with attention to detail. Applicants should have competent computer skills with the ability to learn in-house programs. You will be required to work Saturdays between 8.30 12.30 on a seasonal roster. Applications close on Friday, December 11, 2009 and should be forwarded to: Peter Sheerin C/- Capeview Building Products PO Box 115, Wonthaggi 3995

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT APPOINTMENTS Applications are invited from people who have a commitment to excellence in public healthcare and the skills and expertise to contribute to the governance of a major regional healthcare organisation, to apply for appointment to the Board of Management of Bass Coast Regional Health. The Board of Management is responsible for setting the strategic directions of the Health Service and ensuring that it is efficiently managed, meeting its financial and non-financial performance targets, providing high quality care and service delivery and meeting the needs of the Bass Coast community. There are two vacancies occurring on the Board of Management of the Health Service on 30th June due to the effluxion of time with the retiring members eligible for re-appointment. These positions are honorary appointments for a maximum period of three years. The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring there is strong governance and accountability of Board members and will be ensuring that Boards of Management have the right mix of relevant skills, knowledge, attributes and expertise to be effective and achieve the Health Service’s objectives. To ensure the correct balance is achieved, the following will be taken into account when considering applications: • Skills and expertise relevant to the governance of health services including corporate management, finance/audit, law, human resources, capital management, strategic information technology, risk management and clinical governance; • The capacity to reflect the views of the community and users of the service; • Continuing high levels of performance in their fields of endeavour, integrity and a high standing in the community; • An understanding of the broader policy context of the delivery and planning of public health services; • A good working knowledge and understanding of accountability, relationships and corporate governance; • Demonstrated strategic thinking, planning and leadership skills; and • Experience in effective consultation and collaboration with stakeholders. It is Government policy that appointments to Government bodies have records of personal, professional and commercial integrity. In light of this, Government requires short listed applicants to provide a declaration of private interest and to undergo formal probity checks including a Victorian Police criminal records check, an Australian Securities and Investments Commission disqualification register check and a National Personal insolvency index check. Further background information on these honorary positions together with an application form and information kit can be obtained from the Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Lea Pope – telephone 56713333 Applications close with the Chief Executive Officer, Bass Coast Regional Health, Graham Street, Wonthaggi at 5pm Friday, January 22, 2010. Visit Bass Coast Regional Health on the Web www.bcrh.com.au

Due to growth at this market leader in the Equipment Hire industry, a sensational opportunity exists at Coates Hire at our newly opened Wonthaggi branch. If you are ambitious, enthusiastic, hard working and focused on providing customer service excellence this sounds like the role for you – as the customer service face of our business. This pivotal role would best suit a proven people person who is now ready to expand their career at Coates Hire and be trained in all facets of the branch operations and sales. From here you could take your career into Branch Management or into Sales and Account Management of a branch territory and its customers. Your primary responsibilities in this varied and challenging role are to provide excellent customer service, suggest/nominate equipment availability or types and ensure total customer satisfaction by all end users hiring equipment and machinery through the branch. You will enjoy working for a Values driven team: • Committed to Safety First for all employees, contractors and customers; • Where Teamwork Wins and team play and an enjoyable environment is encouraged; • Who know that Every Customer Matters and excellence in customer service is the goal; • Where We Keep our Promises • That is … “Confident we can Deliver, and Determined to Do So” Ideally, you will be sales and customer focused, innovative, be able to work under pressure, and work effectively as part of a team. Equipment training and sales training provided through manufacturers, professionally accredited universities and colleges to support in career progression. Proven career drive, attention to detail, organisation skills and the ability to juggle multiple tasks and stay effective are essential for these key branch positions. Please forward your resume and expression of interest in this great role to Peter Richards on peter.richards@coateshire.com.au Applications close December 11, 2009

Position Vacant

South East Services Network GippsCare Leongatha

situations vacant

ACCOUNTING CLERK / BOOKKEEPER / ACCOUNTANT We are seeking an experienced bookkeeper / accountant or someone currently studying Accounting with a desire to work in a progressive public accounting practice. Duties primarily involve Accounting, GST & Income Tax for our SME business and primary producer client base. The successful applicant will be an ambitious individual with a confident personality with a high level of computer skills who will work in a happy team environment. Excellent advancement opportunities exist for a self motivated person who has the ambition to achieve. Please apply in own handwriting with resumé. Applications close on Monday, December 11, 2009, and should be addressed to: Accountant / Bookkeeper MORRISON JEFFERIS & ASSOCIATES Certified Practising Accountants 16 McCartin Street LEONGATHA VIC 3953

Operations and Maintenance Operator A vacancy exists for an Operations and Maintenance Operator to assist in carrying out all aspects of the Operation and Maintenance of South Gippsland Water’s Water and Wastewater systems in our Leongatha area. The duties of the position will be interesting and varied and can include working with contractors and local tradespersons. The Corporation is committed to staff development and training and there are ample opportunities to gain skills and experience in a wide range of the Corporation’s operations. Commuter use of a vehicle is provided. The successful applicant will need to be available to work outside of ordinary hours, require a current manual driver’s licence, and preferably reside within proximity to the Leongatha area. Knowledge of the water industry and the ability to use computers are advantages. Applicants should read the position description which is available with further information on www.sgwater.com.au Applications close on Friday, December 11, 2009 and should be addressed to HR Coordinator South Gippsland Water PO Box 102 Foster Vic. 3960

Team Leader/Senior Practitioner Housing Support (XTarget) and Youth Housing Services Full Time The Salvation Army South East Services Network, GippsCare Service has an exciting and challenging new Team Leader / Senior Practitioner position. GippsCare assists individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness within the Bass Coast and South Gippsland shires. The successful applicant will have proven experience managing and supervising staff in social welfare programs and possess skills in case management. An ability to implement good practice, develop teamwork and continuous improvement. The position will also carry a small caseload of case managed clients that require support from a senior practitioner. The position will be based at the Leongatha office and report to SESN Senior Manager GippsCare. A tertiary qualification in Social Work or a related discipline is highly desirable. The above position advertised will be required to meet the following criteria: • Applicants must be willing to work within the mission and values of The Salvation Army. • A driver’s licence is essential. • A satisfactory police check is essential. • A Working With Children Check is essential. • Proof of eligibility to work in Australia is essential. • All applicants are required to cite the name of three (3) referees. • Applications for all of the above positions are to be received no later than close of business, Monday, December 21, 2009. Interviews will be held in early January 2010. A Position Description can be obtained by contacting Reception on 5662 4502 or email

debbie.gillin@aus.salvationarmy.org Applications are to be addressed to: Celia Irwin SESN Senior Manager GippsCare PO Box 126 LEONGATHA VIC 3953 * SESN is a Child Safe Organisation

Support Services Manager GPA South Gippsland undertakes a leading role in providing support for General Practitioners and influencing the delivery of health services throughout South Gippsland. In this context the Company undertakes program activities to meet identified health needs in the region. The Company which is based in Inverloch is funded by various government departments and other organisations to provide support for primary health care throughout Bass Coast and South Gippsland Communities. This role is focused upon managing all support aspects for the operation of the company and support of program delivery staff. A new opportunity is now available for a competent person who is experienced in all aspects of small business administration to join this established company. Qualifications and/or experience in bookkeeping as well as office human resources management are invited to submit an application for the position of Support Services Manager. High level computer skills are required, particularly in the use of MYOB and MS Office, and Data Base management programs. The successful candidate will be appointed to a full time position of 38 hrs per week, concluding on June 30, 2012. Ongoing employment beyond this date will be dependant upon continuation of funding. A position description may be requested from Kerry Beyer, Office Manager on (03) 5674 3105. Applications are to be submitted to: The Office Manager, GPA South Gippsland PO Box 105, Inverloch 3996 or info@gpasouthgippsland.com.au Applications close 12 noon Friday, December 18, 2009.

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

free

FREE Pick-up and delivery in Leongatha/Meeniyan areas for MOTOR MOWERS,

CHAINSAWS AND STATIONARY ENGINES ETC. Repairs and services

Phone JOHN GOULD 5664 0012

livestock POULTRY and Cage Bird Auction at the Traralgon

Showgrounds Poultry Pavillion on Sunday, December 13, starting at 10.30am. Wide variety of poultry, young hens, many breeds, fertile eggs. Open for sellers from 8am. Ph: 5197 7270 or 0438 325 918.

used machinery

GREENFIELD ride-on lawn mower, 12.5hp Briggs & Stratton motor, 32” cut, good condition, reliable mower. $1,200 ONO. Tel: 5662-3510.

used motorcycles HONDA CBR100F, 1998, black, tinted screen, Ventura rack and bag, 13,000km, RWC, GO-268, $6,500. 0428-832444.

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

COMMODORE VE 08 Omega sedan, red, 44,000km, 1 owner, with books, factory warranty until mid 2011, all options. As new throughout, reg. and RWC, WXC793, $23,750. Ph: 0427-513618.

HOLDEN VT Commodore wagon, RWC, 12 mths reg. RXQ249, $5,900. 0400824696.

HOLDEN Astra TR GL 1997, manual white hatchback, 55,600km, immaculate, ONT591, RWC, registered Sept 2010, $6,200. Stony Creek. 0407-376137.

MAZDA E2000 van, 2002, white, 3 seats, 5 speed, a/c, cargo barrier, shelving, roof rack, RWC, XBO156, $8,000. 0428-832444.

MITSUBISHI Pajero, 1998, 7 seats, grey 2-tone paint, bullbar, side steps, tinted windows, auto, a/c, 169,500km, RWC, OUO-874, $13,000. 0428832444.

PEUGEOT 306, 1994, funky black convertible, RWC, XJM351. Very comfy, leather upholstery, Ipod, air, retro trim. $6,500 ONO. Ph: 0408-640155.

SUBARU GX Impreza 97 wagon, 2 ltr manual, 2nd owner, with books, low kms, a/c, p/s, c/c, in ex. cond. throughout, reg. and RWC, OFL436. $7,500 ONO. Ph: 0427-513618.

message of hope SURELY goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:6.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 53

situations vacant

CROWD CONTROL / SECURITY STAFF Required for venue in Inverloch and surrounds

Current Security licence and previous experience essential. Must speak fluent English. Excellent rates offered for the right applicant. IMMEDIATE START Call 0413 309 948

work wanted

meetings

MOBILE MECHANIC

“Fight for Your Rights before they’re gone”

Car servicing, brakes and repairs Very good prices Fully qualiﬁed mechanic 10 years Call Steve 0439 338 643

wanted HILLS clothes hoist, good condition. Will dismantle. 5662-2903. L.P.S. girl’s uniform, size 4 and 6, good condition. Please phone 5662-4898 or 0407-810237. MIDDLE aged proffessional man is seeking clean, basic self-contained midweek accomodation in Leongatha or very close to. Please phone Douglas on 0431380089 or 5662-3712

wanted to buy FURNITURE: Parker, Noblett, Tessa, Chiswell, Moran, or any quality brand name used furniture. Phone Wendy on 0409-234482. GREENHOUSE / Hothouse. Looking to buy a secondhand greenhouse in the small to medium size range. Call 5664-7420.

birthdays Guess who’s turning 21?

Come and listen to the real truth about the laws that govern us. MEETING NIGHT

Bridge Street KORUMBURRA Gold coin donation All welcome

engagements McLAREN - STOOVE “Hear Ye, Hear Ye”, Let it be known that Rhett McLaren, son of Peter and Kerena McLaren and Christine Stoove, daughter of Susan Boothroy and Mark Stoove, are proud to announce their engagement on September 27, 2009. Their families are delighted, and wish them every happiness together. MEE - DAVEY Mervyn and Yvonne are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Kirsten, to Joshua, eldest son of Chris and Christine of Ariah Park, NSW.

SALMONS - Kathleen Mary (Kay). Passed away at Koorooman House, Leongatha, on Wednesday, December 2, 2009. Aged 71 years. Dearly beloved wife of Jack (dec.). Devoted mum to Anne, John, Kathryn, Theresa and Sarah. Loved motherin-law and friend of Jim, Jen, and Robert. Treasured grandma of Fiona and Matthew, Katie, Dean, Jesse and Conor. Great grandma of Isaac and Natalia. A wonderful mum who will live in our hearts forever.

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

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

JOLLEY - Terry. 11/12/84 - 6/9/99. Remembering you with love and pride, now and always. Mum, Allen, Jacob and Kayla.

bereavement thanks TURNER - Kerryn. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to our family and friends for all of their love, care and support after the loss of our beautiful Kerryn, it is dearly appreciated. Brad, Rachael and Isaac, Jodie, Dylan, Lani, Adam, and the Forrester and Turner families.

deaths SALMONS - Kay. 6/12/37 - 2/12/09. Evening falls, you’ve earned your sleep, the memories are ours to keep. Rest peacefully with Dad, Mum. Your loving daughter, Sarah. Sincere thanks to the wonderful staff at Koorooman House, Dr Lesley Chisholm and other doctors of Leongatha Medical Clinic for all of their care and compassion. SALMONS - Kay. Peacefully sleeping. Remembered by Mary Pickersgill and family. SALMONS - Kay. A lovely lady now resting peacefully with her much loved husband Jack. Two beautiful souls reunited. Our love and thoughts to Annie, John, Cathy, Theresa, Sarah and their families. Jo and Mark, Kasey, Chris and family, Liam and Heidi.

funerals

marriage celebrant

birthday remembrance

births

deaths

7.30pm ANGLICAN PARISH HALL

Leongatha 5662 2574

HOROBIN (Rickards) Craig and Tracey have a gorgeous son, Jonah Raine, on November 27, London. A very precious little grandson for Frank and Jackie.

Results Meeniyan – Monday evening: 1st Kathleen Dowd, Colin Cameron; 2nd Faye Rowlands, Frank Arndt; 3rd Susan Rufﬁn, Clive Hope; 4th Barbara Axten, Pat West; 5th Margaret Munro, Ellie McIntyre. Inverloch – Friday afternoon. North/South: 1st Jack Kuiper, Dina Drury; 2nd Colin Manley, Althea Drew; 3rd Barbara Axten, Margaret Munro; 4th Roger Walker, Molly Downing; 5th Kathy Geyer, Leila Bell. East/West: 1st Yvonne Mears, Alan Johnston; 2nd Kaye Douglas, John Sutton; 3rd Vivienne Westaway, Maureen Styles; 4th Mary McCaughan, Ellie McIntyre; 5th John Farr, Anne Williams.

Tuesday, December 8

MERLENE STRATTON

Wishing you love and happiness on your 21st and always 13/12/09 Love from Mum, Dad, Ryan and Tom

South Gippsland Bridge

SALMONS (Kay) Kathleen Mary. December 2, 2009 aged 71 years. My beautiful mum, I love you and miss you and want you to know that you are never more than a moment away from my thoughts and my heart. Kathryn, Dean, Jesse and Conor. Mum reunited with dad. Cherished memories remain.

SALMONS - The Funeral Service (Prayers) for the late Mrs Kathleen Mary (Kay) Salmons will be held at St Laurence’s Catholic Church, Leongatha on Thursday, December 10 following Rosary which will commence at 1pm. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of Prayers for the Leongatha Lawn Cemetery. Paul & Margaret Beck HANDLEY FUNERAL SERVICES Leongatha Korumburra 5662-2717 Member AFDA

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8200 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Fear of the dark. 8, Doo-r-s. 9, Win-some. 10, Li-ft-ed. 11, Rev-is-E. 12, As-H-en. 14, US-her. 18, Elap-se. 20, Sea-son. 23, Off-beat. 24, Ina-n(on)e. 25, Daddylong-legs . Down - 1, Fiddle. 2, A-loof. 3, Obscene (anag.). 4, T-own. 5, Er-ni(ght)-e. 6, Ac-on-it-e. 7, Keeper. 13, Staffed. 15, See-king . 16, Second. 17, In-F-ers. 19, Seedy. 21, Shake. 22, Ot-to. QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8200 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Chrysanthemum. 8, Raven. 9, Channel. 10, Shriek. 11, Revile. 12, Ember. 14, Spent. 18, Unrest. 20, Rubber. 23, Inhuman. 24, Drape. 25, Self-assurance. Down - 1, Caress. 2, River. 3, Sincere. 4, Nice. 5, Heave. 6, Mansion. 7, Mullet. 13, Marshal. 15, Plunder. 16, Quoits. 17, Grieve. 19, Samba. 21, Brain. 22, Onus.

Well done: award winners show off their prizes.

Local gymnasts shine PROUD coaches and parents watched as Leongatha gymnasts bounced, danced, flew and generally had fun at the Leongatha Gymnastics Club’s end-of-year display and awards day recently. The day was a culmination of a year of hard work and dedication and provided the perfect opportunity for gymnasts to display their skills to parents, grandparents and friends. “Gymnastics, as well as being a sport in its own right, is a true foundation sport. Children get a strong grounding in strength, rhythm, coordination and flexibility,” club president Sam Wearne said. “Our club caters for the entire spectrum of skills. From those who want fun and fitness, to the serious gymnast who wants to compete – the opportunity is there for both. “It is fantastic to see so many out to support their children. The feedback has been so positive. From a gymnast’s perspective, this day not only allows those who may not have competed at outside competition to display the skills, but shows the younger gymnasts the po-

tential they can achieve at higher levels.” Awards were presented for most improved, as well as achievement awards. The coveted coaches’ award was given to one talented gymnast. The club has been operating for 16 years and presently caters for about 70 gymnasts. The club has been well represented throughout the year with participation in both local and Melbourne competitions. “Ultimately we would love to have our own venue or a shared use venue where we could offer training several nights a week. Grants from Safeway and the South Gippsland Shire Council have allowed us to upgrade our equipment and dedicate more of our ﬁnances towards ﬁnding a suitable venue,” Sam said. “The need is there, as the club currently has a waiting list. We are investigating the potential to run two nights next year, which will be great. Probably the most exciting news is a new extension of our club to include Kindergym. Enrolments are currently being taken for the start of 2010.” Those interested in the Kindergym program can register their interest by contacting Miranda on 0427 647 399.

Wonthaggi welcome TWO momentous decisions were made at the West Gippsland Latrobe Football League 2009 Annual General Meeting held on Monday, November 30. The first was the acceptance of an affiliation request from the Wonthaggi Power FNC to be part of the league. “All member clubs were emphatic in their support and soundly applauded the return of a club representing the Wonthaggi region,” league general manager Chris Soumalis said. WPNC president Rob Tesoriero said he was keen to “stabilise our club and move on and become a successful club in the strongest league in Gippsland”. The second big decision was the acceptance of a name change for the league. “The current name has been in place for the past seven years and it was felt that the composition of the current clubs needed a name that was more reflective of the region they represent,” Mr Soumalis said. “The name change has been a topic of conversation all year and the notice of motion

was easily passed by the member clubs. The new ofﬁcial title is the Gippsland League Inc. “Our league is made up of nine of the 10 largest towns in Gippsland and our new name is representative of the region we cover. We are moving into a new era and a name change

was needed to take us to the next stage of our evolution”. President Brian McKenzie was re-elected for his fourth term and made a point of thanking all the life members that were in attendance for their continued interest in the league.

Meeniyan basketball Men Results - November 24: R & R 50 (L. Byrnes 20, J. Byrnes 15) d Travelling Gilmores (B. Croatto 10, S. Westaway 10). Amberﬂuids 33 (C. Johnston 16, L. Jones 6, J. Kennedy 6) d Goatriders 28 (T. Manne 15, S. Vuillermin 8). Young Fellas - bye. Results - December 1: Amberﬂuids 54 (J. Kennedy 28, L. Jones 11) d R & R 41 (C. Kuhnell 15, J. Byrnes 15). Travelling Gilmores 66 (P. Brydon 33, G. Bolge 14) d Young Fellas 39 (J. Stuart 12, D. Gibson 9).

Women Results - November 25: Test Tubes 35 (M. Hughes 16, K. Grylls 8) d Hogs 21 (D. Jones 7, J. Bloch 6). Gunners 59 (K. Schelling

19, J. Gibaud 16) d Bench Warmers 27 (R. Schelling 13, J. Frassenei 5). Mixtures - bye. Results - December 2: Gunners 68 (K. Schelling 18, C. Standﬁeld 17) d Mixtures 12 (B. Eygenraam 6, G. Findlay 4). Hogs won on forfeit from Bench Warmers. Test Tubes - bye.

Ladders Men Amberﬂuids ....................124 12 R & R ..............................139 10 Travelling Gilmores* ..... 114 2 Goatriders* .......................93 2 Young Fellas*....................53 0 Women Gunners...........................202 15 Hogs ................................. 131 11 Test Tubes*......................205 10 Mixtures ............................35 7 Bench Warmers* ................48 2 * Loss of points for not attending annual general meeting.

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

LBA basketball grand finals THE Leongatha Basketball Association spring grand ﬁnal series was held on November 29 at South Gippsland SPLASH.

Ladies winners: back: Kara Schelling, Tenielle Bentvelzen and Janelle Gibaud; front: Ella Angarane, Di Schelling, Kelsie Schelling and Kerry Bentvelzen.

A Grade men’s winners: David Veale, Clint Hulshof, Cody Hulshof, Dexter Rodwell and Kieren Hoekstra; front: Clayton Bawden and Morgan Fisher.

B Grade men’s winners: back: Andrew Houston, Matt Bennatt, Matt Davies and Nathan Johnson; front: Brett Guy, Travis Cameron and Robert Houston.

Under 12 boys winners: back: Veronica Park (coach), Vincent Monaghan, Riley Smith and Garth Park; front: Jordi Geary, Sarin Barnard and Nathan Trotto.

Good crowds were present for all the games, which gave the event a great atmosphere and all the teams put on a fantastic spectacle. The first game was the Under 10 mixed teams. In a great opening game there was only one point separating Yellow and Black at the final minute of the second half when, with desperation, black scored to assure victory. Final scores: Black 13 d Yellow 10. The next game was Black v Purple in the Under 12 boys. Black quickly got to an early lead and held it until half time. In the second period Purple gave everything they had to close the gap, but in the end Black’s accuracy under the ring was enough to ensure the win. Final scores: Black 29 d Purple 21. The Under 13 girls followed in what was a great spectacle. Playing in front of the largest crowd of the day, both teams pushed themselves to exhaustion and with five minutes left of the second half the lead would change several times. In the end, with only seconds left, Blue’s offence scored to win the game. Final scores: Blue 21 d Yellow 20. Under 14 boys took the court next in what would turn out to be another thrilling game. Fast paced and desperate, both teams gave everything they had and the crowd loved it. Both teams were very evenly matched and as they grew tired Green’s extra height in defence allowed them to grab the lead. Final scores: Green 35 d Red 29. The Under 16 girls game was another fantastic game. Blue quickly pulled out to an early lead of 10 points in a fast, action packed first half and looked to be in control. In the second half, through sheer hard work, Red slowly but surely closed the gap until in the final 30 seconds they scored to the roar of the crowd to win the match. Final scores: Red 26 d Blue 25. Next to take the court was the hotly contested women’s final. The Zappers’ pressure under the ring was fantastic and helped them pull out a healthy lead in the first half despite a valiant charge late in the first half by the Wild Girls. By the end of the game, the Zappers had held on to their lead despite the Wild Girls great efforts. Final scores: Zappers 61 d Wild Girls 24. Following that game was the Under 17 boys. Both teams played with great pace, skill and desperation and it was hard to know who was going to win. Slowly but surely Black’s accuracy and defensive pressure was enough to snag the win. Final scores: Black 34 d Red 28. The final match of the day was the A Grade men’s final.

The Rollers grabbed an early lead but looked like loosing it to the Amber Fluids towards the end of the ﬁrst

half in what became a battle of the big men under the ring. In the second half, the Rollers once more took con-

trol and held onto their lead.

Final scores: Rollers 39 d Amber Fluids 22.

Under 17 boys winners: back: Greg Bolge (coach), Lachlan Sperling, Aaron Heppel, Jason Stewart and Zac Price; front: Brendan Cashin, Jordan Bolge and Ryan Higgins.

Under 16 girls winners: back: Cassandra Mcrae, Maddison Kerr, Geoff Kerr (coach), front: Mikaela Witherow, Zoe-Leigh Nichols and Kate Edney.

Under 14 boys winners: back: Mathew Wiggins, Jordan Pickersgill, Ben Rosser, Josh McGannon and Anne Olden (coach); front: Halen Duff, Mike Olden and Josh Riseley.

Under 13 girls winners: back: Teagan Burge, Sarah McCahon and Mark James (coach) front: Sarah Edney, Kobe Barnard and Sarah James. Absent: Emma Routley.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 55

Foster

Having a ball: Alayne McKenzie was ready to play when The Star visited the Foster Golf Club last week.

Mirboo North golf THERE were 24 starters for the stableford event on Thursday, December 3. The CCR was 69. A Grade winner was Eddie Dudek (20) 42. Down the line: Wayne Reynolds (13) 39, Mal Payne (12) 38 and John Blunsden (22) 37 countback. Birdies: Wayne Reynolds 16th, Andy Van Zuylen 6th, Joe Kus 6th.

Ladies The winner of the monthly medal played on December 2 was M. Beruldsen 107-36-71. Down the line M. Thompson 88-1573. Nearest the pin: 6th Mary Beruld-

Woorayl

IF you’re looking for Saturday’s results you’ll have to read on. Every year, those golfers, men and ladies, who are lucky enough to win a nearest the pin on either the eighth or 17th hole, have their names put in a barrel and a winner is drawn on presentation night. Every year Kelvin John’s Retravision sponsor this event. This year’s winner of the microwave, was Marlene Rayson. Congratulations. Next Thursday it’s Veterans Day at Woorayl which will be followed by Christmas dinner. Now, to Saturday. Cleanaway sponsored our stableford event which was also the start of the summer trophies for the men and ladies. The A Grade winner was Geoff McKinnon with 42 points. B Grade went to Tyler Hogan with Tuesday’s best score of 45 points and C Grade

sen, 13th Maree Thompson.

South Gippsland Veterans

Coming events Monday, December 7 - Doreen Black Plate. Tuesday, December 8 stableford. Wednesday, December 9 - nine hole stableford aggregate. Christmas break up - Kaylene Morris trophy. Thursday, December 10 - stableford. Saturday, December 12 - stableford. John and Barbara Warren trophy. Ladies Saturday, December 12 stableford. Sunday, December 13 - men’s and ladies fourball. Hospital charity day - 10.30am shot gun start. Freeman and Gilbert families trophy.

Saturday, Dec 5 The event was a 3BBB stableford (2 scores to count), sponsored by Monscellars Wines and Spirits. There were 41 starters and the CCR was 70. The winners were Mal Payne (12), Joe Kus (14), and Wayne Reynolds (13) 88. Runners-up were Sue Traill (20), Jeanne St Ellen (30) and Barb Stimson (26) 87. Down the line: Lynn Winderlick 34, Toni Buxton 38, Chris Gunn 19, 85 c/b; Andy Van Zuylen 17, Neil Rutledge 18 and Phil Garlick 21, 85 c/b. Nearest the pin: 4th Peter Foon, 6th Geoff Tyson, 13th Barb Stimson, 16th Peter Foon.

went to Brian Thomas with 41 points. Balls went to J. Redmond, G. Fitzpatrick, N. McKenzie, C. Salmon, M. Wallace, G. Calder, O. Vandervorm and G. Salmon. The day’s nearest the pins went to G. Fitzpatrick and O. Vandervorm. The ladies event went to Ann Forsyth with 42 points and balls went to A. Poole and M. Harris. The only nearest the pin went to Barb James on the eighth hole. Thursday’s bar voucher went to Bruce Challiws with 45 points. It’s not often you have 40 points and lose your money. Balls went to Ben Fitzpatrick, Les Wakeﬁeld and Ed Poole. Thursday’s chicken run saw a chook go to M .Wilson with balls to B. Johnson and P. Burgess. This Thursday is also the second of our Christmas meal and rafﬂe nights. So come along.

SOUTH Gippsland Veterans held their championship at Leongatha South golf course on Thursday, November 19. The weather was good and the course in top condition. The fairways were like a lawn and the greens were quick, and 103 played. A Grade stroke winner was Peter Crothers from Phillip Island, with a brilliant 74 gross; runner-up with 81 was John Little from Korumburra. A Grade handicap winner was Bruce Hutton, Leongatha; runner-up was Ray Davies, Leongatha. B Grade stroke, John Occhipinti, Won-

SATURDAY, December 5 - monthly medal, G. and S. Anderson trophy. Medal: Neville Thompson (9) 69 net. A Grade: Neville Thompson (9) 69 net. B Grade: Andrew Boddy (28) 71 net. A Grade Scratch: Neville Thompson 78. G Grade scratch: Owen Kindellan 95. Down the line balls: Norm Cooper (12) 70 net, Robert Fulton (17) 72 net, Eddy Fah (12) 73 net, Scott Rathjen (11) 73 net, Jim Parry (11) 73 net. Putting: Neville Thompson. Nearest the pin: fourth Ross McKenzie, sixth Larry Giddy, 13th Gary Clavarino, 15th Kevin Flett, 17th Tony Vanin. Money hole: Scott Rathjen. Friday, December 4 twilight stableford winner: Robert Blake (12) 20 pts on countback. Down the line balls: Denham Grierson (23) 20 pts, Geoff Eddy (20) 20 pts, B. Anderson (25) 19 pts. Nearest the pin: sixth Robert Blake. Thursday, December 3

- stableford winner: Bernd Amesreiter (24) 43 pts. Down the line balls: Athol McGrath (15) 38 pts, Dave Hutchinson (13) 38 pts. Nearest the pin: 15th Kevin Flett. Tuesday, December 1 par winner: John Ellis (17) + nine. Down the line balls: Geoff Nott (31) + ﬁve, Elias Haddad (24) + four. Nearest the pin: 13th John Ellis.

Woorayl ladies ON Wednesday, December 3 a nine hole stableford was played which was sponsored by Pam Byatt (thank you very much, beautiful as always). The winners were: A Grade S. Wakeﬁeld 8/21, B Grade J. Riseley 13/21, C Grade F. Maynard 15/25, overall H. Sullivan. Nearest the pin: 8th T. Scoble, 17th P. Harvey, 2nd shot on the 11th C. Johnson. Down the line balls: J. Fennell, I. Gilliam, T. Scoble, A. Campbell and D. O’Connor. Next week, Wednesday, December 9, midweek comp starts, 9am hit off. Saturday, December 5 is the start of the summer trophy, time sheet or early start depending on weather conditions. Best wishes to everyone for the festive season and new year.

thaggi, 90 gross; runner-up John Ellis, 91 gross. B Grade handicap, Bernie Wilkinson, Lang Lang, 70 net; runner-up Robert Fulton, Foster 73. C Grade stroke, Ian Bray, Phillip Island, 92 gross; runner-up Gary Sharrock, Leongatha, 98 gross. C Grade handicap, Richard Poole, Phillip Island, 71 net; runner-up Tom Mallacham, Phillip Island, 72 net. Over 70 winner, Bill Thomson, Korumburra, 74 net countback; runner-up Gary Phelan, Foster, 74 net. Nearest the pins: 4th Michael Harvey, 7th John Leheny, 14th Bob Furborough, 16th David Mitchell.

Leongatha golf NICK Savino played early and set a mark which nobody could catch. Nick’s score, 85-18-67 won A Grade and the last monthly medal of the year. Neil Gillin 92-20-72 won B Grade and Phil McKinnon 97-27-70 took C Grade. Geoff McDonald handled the slick greens best with 25 putts, and Ken Wardle’s 81 was the day’s best gross. Ken also won nearest the pin on the 16th, with Peter Blackney winning pro-pin. Thanks to our monthly medal sponsor, Colin Watson Holden, for the ongoing support. Ball winners: D. McDonald, G. McRitchie 69; K. Wardle 70, N. Lafferty 73, G. McDonald, J. Fraser, A. Leadingham, I. Barlow, I. Watson, K. Gardner, C. Leaver, K. Castwood 74; M. Stubbs, R. Williams, S. Hansen 75

Tuesday Congratulations Doug Clemann for a great 41 point round which should bring Doug’s handicap back into single ﬁgures. Ted Bruinewoud showed good form to win B Grade on 38 points. Nearest the pin winners were Dave Vorwerg on the 14th and Jack Cummins on the 16th. Ball winners: H. Goodman, B. Gibson, J. Curtis, D. Bethune, E. Poole, P. Waters 37; J. Eabry, N. Cavins, G. McRitchie 36; N. Mackenzie 35.

Thursday

Great mates: Jenny Mouthford and Beth Curram had a great round at the Foster Golf Club last week.

Meeniyan SATURDAY saw a keen field ready to contest the December monthly medal. All players relishing the greens that are improving day by day due to the coring process and the careful attention applied by David to get then up to the standard we expect. Some pretty hot scores were recorded during the event and some good putting numbers made the medal day a close contest. A Grade was a tight finish seeing Col Graeme winning the stroke comp and the monthly medal on a count back from Graham Hoskin both scoring a net 66. B Grade was also very close requiring a count back by the beleaguered captain to determine that Russ Evans had won scoring a fine 67 net to win the day over Wilf Richards also on a 67 net. The best putter on the day was Reg Hannay using only 26 putts to complete his round. Other scores of note were Darryl Gregg on 68 and Winston Reilly also on 68. Sunday was our annual Wilson Day and an enthusiastic field of 90 players competed in our popular two ball ambrose event. Popular Victorian golf legend Ian Stanley was at the event as always, and entertained the players at the pre-

sentation with his usual wit and good humour. Many thanks go to the crew who organise this event every year. It is a terriﬁc day for our club and a real fun day for all who play in it. Ladies winners were Dot Christie and Dot Elliott with a ﬁne net 66 followed by Sue Hoskin and Andrea Thorson compiling 69 net. Men’s winners were Darren Lines partnered by Justin Trott scoring a gross 63 resulting in a net 59.25. In second place was Brian

An excellent Thursday ﬁeld of 65 players competed for prizes sponsored by ‘House of Golf’. Few of our golfers keep out of the rough as well as Denis Hanna, and his steadiness was rewarded with a 37 point victory in A Grade. Ian Watson recorded the day’s best score of 40 Mash and Matt McGuiness scoring 61.25. A fun day was had by all and many thanks to those who organised the event and contributed their time and efforts on the day. Tuesday comp was won by the ever consistent Lloyd Hemphill amassing a neat 40 points, Wilf Richards scored 39 point as did Rob Auchterlonie. The aggregate event was won by Ian Warman and Col Stewart combining to get 75 points.

points to win B Grade, while Bruce Cathie scored 38 points to take C Grade. Nearest the pins went to Geoff Kurrle on the 14th and Doug Clemann on the 16th. Ball winners: N. Cairns, J. Curtis 39; T. Rickard 37, J. Hutchinson, D. Clemann 36; R. Brown, I. Purbrick, D. Vorwerg, P. Waters, M. Stubbs 35; D. McDonald, M. Oliver, M. Street 34. This Thursday is the Knights Mitsubishi Whisky Run and already the time sheet is almost full. On Saturday an Irish fourball will be played, where on each hole the best three stableford scores will count. Next Sunday combines two events, the annual turkey run and also the rescheduled R. and M. Hodges board event. The game is 4BBB stableford mixed.

Sunday A great ﬁeld of 65 players competed in the December round of the Sunday nine hole competition. The conditions were so good that there were many good scores and broken handicaps. The ladies best gross was won by Val Brydon with 44 off the stick. Michael Thomas with 36 won the men’s best gross. Kit Boag had the best net for the ladies with 50-18½-31½. Bob Jamieson with a 43-13½-29½ easily won the men’s best net. The winning team of the day was LLT. In second place was the 7-up team with Kit’s Litter third and All But One in fourth place. Thank you to our sponsors Kevin and Deborah Scott of the South Gippsland Boarding Kennels and Cattery. The next round will be played on Sunday January 10.

Nearest the pins was John Stewart. Also best nine Frank Piele on 22 points. Thursday’s event was a singles stableford and Wilf Richards had a steady round to amass a solid 42 points, closely followed by Fred Stalker on 40 points. The fourball was won by Bob McGeary and Fred Stalker on 76 points and nearest the pin was Wilf Richards. Next Saturday is a 4BBB par event, and don’t forget our Christmas Party on December 18.

Overlooking the course: Meeniyan Golf Club’s treasurer Cheryl White (standing) with vice-president Will Bullock, president Graham Hoskin and Fish Creek Jaycees representative Stephen Thomson. They are sitting on one of three outdoor settings donated by the Jaycees and made by John Fletcher of Koonwarra.

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Meeniyan ladies golf

Bowls reports

ONCE again another new golﬁng lady has taken out the monthly medal at Meeniyan.

Korumburra

Kristen Elliott won section two and the December medal with a very nice 71 net. Section one was won by Irene Holm with 73 net, Maureen Hams took out the best nine with 35 net on a countback, the putting went to Gwen Heppell with 28 putts. Down the line balls to Dot Elliott 73, Gwen Heppell 73 and Sue Hoskin with 74. Lyn Jennison won the 45s with 26 points. Congratulations to Maureen Hams who broke her handicap at Welshpool last Friday.

Ladies plate winners: Trish Latch (29) 33 points, Fran MacPherson (27) 33 points and Anne Skan (25) 30 points.

Welshpool ladies plate WELSHPOOL held their annual ladies plate event, sponsored by South Gippsland Publishing, on Friday, December 4.

Kristen Elliott: December monthly medal winner at Meeniyan Golf Club.

Korumburra badminton FUNNY things happen in finals. Shenanigans, the firm favourites, hit a wall called Matrix. Matrix found something extra to overcome a gallant Shenanigans 182 to 145 and advance to the grand final against Transformers. Can they go all the way? The juniors, also playing their first final, saw an impressive Phoenix dominate Kookaburras to win 68 to 32, while Ravenous Do Dos fought hard to squeeze past California Condors with a 45 to 41 win.

Fifteen teams (45 women) from Yarram, Welshpool, Foster, Meeniyan, Leongatha, Woorayl, Wonthaggi and Lang Lang golf clubs contested the plate. Winning team was Welshpool 1 - Fran MacPherson, Ann Skan and Trish Latch with a combined score of 96 (33, 30, 33) stableford points. A Grade was won by Maxine Eabry of Leongatha with 34 points. B Grade: Maureen Hams of Meeniyan with 37 points. C Grade: Welshpool president Jeannette Swann with 36 points. Nearest the pin: third Dot Christie of Meeniyan, eight - Trish Latch of Welshpool, 15th - Dot Christie. Balls down the line: Dot Christie (Meeniyan) 34, Sandra Denovan (Yarram) 34, Trish

Latch (Welshpool) 33, Fran MacPherson (Welshpool) 33, Beth Curram (Foster) 33, Marg Johnson (Wonthaggi) 32, Frances McGlead (Foster) 32 and Karen Barwick (Welshpool) 31. Whilst the nearest the pins on the sixth and 17th greens remained unattainable, I did hear that our water features (dam and drain) claimed numerous balls. Here remains a challenge for next year girls. A special thank you to our relatively new golfer Kerry Inns of Welshpool Club, who stepped up to ﬁll a spot. Nothing like being thrown in the deep end at very short notice. Thank you to the volunteer ground staff for having the course looking magniﬁcent and to Lachie Walker for spotting on the 7th/16th fenceline all day. Thank you to all the golf clubs who supported our day and made it the success it was. We look forward to supporting you all in 2010.

Leongatha cycling A COLD and windy Friday night saw ﬁve starters for racing as three club members were still away on the Great Vic Bike Ride. Those who were in attendance were a little lethargic and suffering from other sports activity earlier in the day, so riding was a little lacklustre. Club coach Tony Smith had the motorbike in operation for some of the races, so that at least kept the racing close and honest. First event of the evening was a one lap time trial. Best effort went to Elliot Gin in 32.55 sec. This was around 0.5 sec behind his best. However, Matt Dudley recorded a 35.65 sec time, which was a personal best, and scored him second place. Just behind was Ben Patterson with 36.04 sec whilst Thomas McFarlane on 38.12 sec was right on his previous times and Harley Elms with 37.42sec. The scratch race was a motor paced effort over six laps with the bike coming off at 1.5 laps to go. All riders were keen to keep the action going, but it is still 600 metres to the ﬁnish. Whilst Matt, Thomas and Ben looked winners at the bell, Elliot was biding his time and when the others tired with 300m to go, he quickly took control to head home for an

easy win. Ben Patterson and Matt Dudley filled the minor places. The riders were back on their bikes for a two lap handicap. The field was all bunched up at 200m to go with Elliot just making contact after a long chase from scratch. Into the straight it was Elliot claiming another win from Ben Patterson (40m) and a fine ride by Thomas McFarlane (100m) in third place. With riders struggling to back up from one race to the next, the last race was a five lap keirin. Once again the riders struggled to work out their tactics after the motorbike came off. It was another win to Elliot ahead of Ben and Matt. Hopefully with riders back from the touring we can run some trophy races on Friday night. There are only two nights of racing prior to the Christmas break. Wednesday night saw another junior join club coach Tony Smith to learn some track craft so perhaps we will see another new rider racing shortly. The previous weekend Will Lumby was racing at the Vic Country track titles at Maryborough. Will scored a win in the pursuit, second in the sprint and time trial. So it was an excellent weekend for Will.

Grade winners: B Grade Maureen Hams (28) 37 points (Meeniyan), A Grade Maxine Eabry (20) 34 points (Leongatha) and C Grade Jeanette Swann (37) 36 points (Welshpool).

Big hitter AUSTRALIAN golﬁng legend Ian Stanley (centre) was the guest of honour at last weekend’s 2-ball ambrose at Meeniyan Golf Course. Stanley was the star attraction of a day that saw players bussed in from as far away as Eltham. He is pictured here with the day’s

organiser Darren Lines (right) and club president Graham Hoskin. Stanley was a proliﬁc winner on the Australasian tour in the 1970s and 80s, as well as playing in many major tournaments during his hey-day. He is still one of the most popular Australian golfers and was warmly received at Meeniyan Golf Club during Sunday’s event.

THE ladies had another mixed result with pennant on Tuesday. Division 2 travelled to Loch, where they went down by seven shots, with our best result Debbie Williams’ team of Carolyn Snooks, Jenny McVeigh, Brenda Eastmans’ convincing win over Val Kennedy’s team. Division 3 were home to Phillip Island, with a two shot win to the ‘Burra ladies. Our best result was Nancy Gilbert’s team of Wendy Pepperell, Marg Hams, Mae Harris’s four shot win against J. Farmers’ team. Next week has Division 2 to Tarwin Lower, whilst the Division 3 ladies will travel to Inverloch. The ladies were back on the greens on Wednesday with 24 players. After two games, the winners, with 16 ends were Esma O’Flaherty, Joan Blogg and Lynette Robertson. The men had another successful day on Thursday for pairs. After three games, the winners with 28 shots up were Bill Dilg and Tom Brown. The drawn card went to Ross P. Lomagno and John Halliday.

Inverloch ladies THIS last week did not get off to a good start, with all our pennant divisions sustaining a loss. We hope to rectify that this week with wins. Wednesday, December 2 was the first day of the novice singles. I am pleased to report that Inverloch had six ladies entered into this match. Two of our ladies got through to the second day which was excellent. On the Thursday, Margaret Griffin went through to the final and played against Faye McKenzie from Fish Creek. Faye won this with a score of 21-6, but they were both putting down some lovely bowls. At home there was one game of club pairs in the morning followed by social bowls in the afternoon. We had 18 bowlers playing two games of 10 ends. The winners for the day were Carole Baines, Cynthia Hensley and Marie Bean. Then we had our Christ-

Meeniyan DIVISION 1 ladies visited Wonthaggi on Tuesday but were not successful on any rinks. Division 3 played at Corinella and for the third week had a very close game, going down by six shots. This week ones were home to Leongatha and threes were also at home to Leongatha. In week four of our corporate bowls pairs the top four teams are Nu-Mix 1 (16 pts), The Deans (14), Mudslides and Mac Attack (12). There are ﬁve teams outside the four with eight points. With two weeks to go, the ﬁnal four could change dramatically. Twenty-three people enjoyed social bowls on Wednesday. Winners were Bob Graeme, Ron Thorson and Kay Cook. Bob also won the lucky draw. Thursday, December 3 was our monthly triples. Thank you to our sponsor Nu-Mix. Winners were the

With eight bankers on Saturday, our winners at day’s end were Don MacKay and Wilf O’Flaherty. The rafﬂe winners for Saturday were Peter Cosson, Jack Irving (Mirboo North), Ted Kealy and Bill Thomson. All pennant sides had wins although some scores were very close. Division 1 were home to Inverloch White, with the men having our best result, a four shot win with Glen Field’s team of Brian Clough, Ken Cecil and Peter Goads’ 16 shot win against K. Gardiner’s team. The Maroon men were home to the ladies and men’s teams from Mirboo North. Our best result was Korumburra’s 13 shot win, by Ray Saunders team of Ted Kealy, Keith March and George Savage’s 13 shot win, against Bill McCartin’s team. Division 4 men went to Phillip Island and the best card was Les Eastmans’ team of George Hams, Ian Pepperell and Allan Morphett’s seven shot win against P. Martin’s team. Next week’s pennant sees Division 1 Korumburra to Wonthaggi, whilst for Division 4 it’s the local derby, with Maroon playing home to the Golds.

mas dinner on Friday night. As Johnny Ray sang “Oh what a night it was, it really was such a night”, the meal prepared by “Let’s Have A Party” was beautiful and there were quite a few coming back for seconds. The Christmas pudding was cooked for us by Pam Lawson and Bonnie Campbell, and we were all appreciative of that. After such a lovely meal it’s a wonder that we all had the energy to get up and dance, but that is what we did. We thank Andy Dennis very much for providing the music once again. Father Christmas came for a visit on his trusty bicycle with a few ladies getting a whiskery kiss. Then we sang a few carols to put us in the festive mood. Thanks to all who helped to make this night the great success it was. There were no ladies playing bowls on Saturday.

Mirboo North team of Phil Stimson and Kevin Queale, with Peter Williams (Foster). Runners-up were Tim McLean and Rob Mckenzie (Fish Creek) wioth Henry Scheerle (Foster). Saturday pennant was a three team win in contrast to the previous week. At home to Toora, Division 2 won all rinks with 32 shots up. Fives at home to the top team San Remo won by 12 shots, with two rinks getting the points. Sixes away to Inverloch had a four shot win, with one rink successful. This week twos are home to Lang Lang, fives are away to Fish Creek, and sixes are away to Toora. Our ladies and affiliated singles have now reached the semi final stage, with some new names appearing. Thursday, December 10 is our Christmas break-up with a 6.30pm start and the meal served at 7pm.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 57

Wind makes pennant play difficult MOST bowlers had to contend with less than favourable conditions in last Saturday’s pennant bowls round with a sometimes stiff but gentle north-westerly breeze, which for the greater part made playing conditions rather difﬁcult.

Leongatha (home) stayed ahead of the pack in their win over Tarwin Lower. The surprise of the round saw Lang lang (home) fall to Inverloch by 25 shots, whilst Meeniyan easily accounted for Toora with a 32 shots victory.

The ‘kiss of death’ tipster was generally on the mark as Mirboo North proved too good for Inverloch Blue, even though the Inverloch team took two of the three rinks on offer. Foster appeared to have no trouble in scoring a comfortable win over powerhouse team, Phillip Island who could only manage one of the three rinks. Korumburra (home) proved too good for Inverloch White, even though they managed two of the three rinks, whilst Wonthaggi managed to do what no other team has done this year and kept Leongatha to a draw at Wonthaggi. In Division 2, San Remo (home) had no trouble in their defeat of Wonthaggi by 37 shots.

Division 1: Inverloch Blue 4-75 lt Mirboo North 12-83; Foster 14-79 d Phillip Island 2-60: Korumburra 12-65 d Inverloch White 4-61: Wonthaggi 7-65 drew Leongatha 9-65. Division 2: San Remo 16-85 d Wonthaggi 0-48: Leongatha 14-83 d Tarwin Lower 2-71: Lang Lang 2-56 lt Inverloch 14-81: Meeniyan 1685 d Toora 0-53. Division 3: Loch 14-76 d Corinella 2-68: Leongatha 2-64 lt Phillip Island Blue 14-92; Phillip Island White 2-64 lt Fish Creek 14-75: Wonthaggi 13-74 d Foster 3-70: Division 4: Korumburra Maroon 14-78 d Mirboo North 2-66: Phillip island 2-73 lt Korumburra Gold 14-80: Port Welshpool 2-56 lt

Results

Leongatha

TUESDAY, December 1 saw only our Division 1 ladies do battle on their home ground with Phillip Island ladies but were defeated on the day, while Division 3 had the bye. On December 8 Division 1 is away to Meeniyan, as well as Division 3 at the same venue. Bring home the spoils ladies. Tuesday evening again saw the business bowls in action, with a no holds barred competition that saw some changes to the top six. The Shed still hold top spot but number two position has gone to Gatha New and Used, followed by Knights Knuckle Draggers who slipped a notch, then follows The Water Board with Murpheys One in fifth, and sixth now filled by Hartley Wells. Round five will see another tough round on Tuesday evening, December 8 with the final round six the following week. Wednesday, December 2 saw 28 players on the green in a pairs competition, and the winners were on two wins plus 15 shots, Jack Embleton and Frank Filomeno, with the runner-up being Ian Todd and B. Davidson on two wins plus 14 shots. Sponsor for the day was Taranto Windows and Glass Leongatha, and the club thanks them for their valued support. Saturday, December 5 saw Division 1 pennant teams at Wonthaggi and this was some showdown, with the end result being a draw, both sides on 65 shots. Division 2 were at home to Tarwin Lower and as predicted there was revenge on the cards after Leongatha’s disappointing results in round two at Tarwin Lower. Leongatha were overall winners by 12 shots. Division 3 also were at home to the

highly fancied Phillip Island Blue who were expected to whitewash the ’Gatha, however one team put a dent in the Island with a 35 to 17 shots win. With skipper Eric Thompson at the helm the crew of Peter Bolge, Barry Davidson and George Witherow did the damage. However Phillip Island Blue ran out the overall winners by 28 shots. Round 10 sees Division 1 at home to Mirboo North, while Division 2 travels to Inverloch, and Division 3 to Fish Creek. In the bankers bowls played at Leongatha on Saturday, December 5, 12 players did battle in a triples (4 teams), and the winners on the day were M. Blackburn (s), G. Elliott and Flo Stone, with the runner-up being Lorna Hulls (s), R. Young and A. Moore. To all bowlers, juniors young and old, if you’re not playing pennant then rock up to the Saturday afternoon bankers bowls. The battles and standard of play are just as good as pennant, and you will have a great time. Reminders: Leongatha bowls Christmas dinner is to be held at the clubrooms on Friday evening, December 11, 6.30pm start. Hot press news: the original price quoted ($24 per person) has been deleted and this will now be between $10 and $15. If your names are not on the list by Thursday, December 10 you could miss out on a great night. The list is in the clubrooms. Final reminder that the club’s championships round two singles men and ladies will take place on Sunday, December 13. Another great day’s entertainment for spectators as well, so come along and see top bowlers in action.

Korumburra parlor bowls THE club’s indoor parlor bowls and bias bowls groups recently celebrated the successful completion of their respective social seasons with prize presentations and the usual sumptuous suppers. At the beginning of the season, both groups had looked forward to a more relaxed approach to their carpet bowling after some months of competition over the autumn and winter period, which also saw the successful debut of the club’s pennant bias bowls team in the South Gippsland Indoor Bias Bowls Association competition. Prizes were again awarded to those bowlers who appeared most in winning teams throughout the social season, while for many, the opportunity for social

Inverloch 14-80. Division 5: Wonthaggi 14-84 d Tarwin Lower 2-65: Fish Creek 14-92 d Loch 2-60: Meeniyan 14-76 d San Remo 2-64. Division 6: Inverloch 2-40 lt Meeniyan 12-44: Phillip Island 14-61 d San Remo 0-31; Foster 1354 d Toora 1-40; Wonthaggi 2-47 lt Lang Lang 12-50. My ‘Kiss of Death’ tips for this coming weekend in Division 1 are: Phillip Island (home) to bounce back against Inverloch Blue to keep them on the bottom of the ladder. Inverloch White (home) should manage do to the same against Foster. Wonthaggi (home) will keep their slimmest of hopes alive for finals contention with a strong win over Korumburra. Leongatha (home) will wipe the floor with an easy win over Mirboo North. Finally a deep and meaningful definition of a good ‘skip’ by Jim Stuart (Phillip Island). “A skip is a person who has the ability to pick his own team.”

interaction and the sheer fun of playing together is really what it is all about. Joyce Occhipinti and Sally Gammaldi shared overall winning honours in the parlor bowls group, with Shirley Wyhoon, Rob Stewart, Lilet Wyatt and Lee Armstrong sharing the runners-up prizes. In bias bowls, Lee Armstrong was a clear winner over the season, with Ashley Van Duffelen, Michael Mathews and Charlie Tumino sharing the positions of equal runners-up. The club will re-convene on Thursday, January 14 with its annual general meeting at which prospective new bowlers are encouraged to attend for inclusion in parlor bowls teams for the competition season ahead. Enquiries may be made by telephoning 5657 3344.

Novice singles

Prize winners: Shirley Wyhoon, Sally Gammaldi, Joyce Occhipinti, Lee Armstrong and Lilet Wyatt at Korumburra Parlor Bowls. Absent Rob Stewart.

LAST week on Wednesday, December 2 and Thursday, December 3 the novice singles were played at Korumburra for the first day and Leongatha on the Thursday. There were 11 ladies participating in this competition with some good matches played on Wednesday. The final was played at Leongatha on a blustery day between Faye McKenzie from Fish Creek and Margaret Griffin from Inverloch. After 16 ends the game was won by Faye McKenzie 216. Well done to both ladies for a game well fought.

SGDLBA pennant bowls - Round 8 December 1 Division 1

Foster 76 (8 shots) d Inverloch 68 (R. Richardson 30 d C. Hughes 23, D. Mortlock 29 d S. Cook 20, M. Climas 17 lt A. Tschiderer 25). Wonthaggi 91 (44 shots) d Meeniyan 47 (L. Milkins 26 d L. Hanks 20, K. Simpson 28 d A. Van Wamel 12, I. Donohue 37 d M. Pearson 15). Phillip Island 75 (6 shots) d Leongatha 69 (R. James 23 d D. Dean 15, P. Francis 30 d J. Todd 22, P. Davis 22 lt T. McCormack 32).

Lang Lang 63 (7 shots) d San Remo 56 (J. Prowd 18 lt K. Hale 20, D. Motton 26 d S. Carvosso 19, R. Geyer 19 d C. Thorn 17). Division 2 Port Welshpool 94 (36 shots) d Inverloch 58 (M. McDonald 37 d M. Paynting 15, A. Collins 24 d M. Flett 20, L. McLaine 33 d C. Baines 23). Loch 80 (7 shots) d Korumburra 73 (J. Miller 46 d J. McLaren 15, V. Kennedy 15 lt D. Williams 31, G. Garry 19 lt M. Goad 27). Wonthaggi 85 (35 shots) d Phillip Island 50

(E. Thompson 25 d R. Viney 24, M. McBain 37 d J. Stubbs 8, D. Yarley 23 d E. De Vries 18). Tarwin 84 (28 shots) d Fish Creek 56 (G. Bright 30 d V. Synan 21, D. Barnes 31 d N. Van Dyk 12, H. Twite 23 drew P. Hazeltine 23). Division 3 Foster 66 (26 shots) d Toora 40 (L. Wheeler 34 d K. Barwick 25, M. Freeman 32 d B. Curram 15). Corinella 52 (6 shots) d Meeniyan 46 (M. Dillon 28 d J. Cocking 25, E. Johnston 24 d D. Lindhard 21). Korumburra 49 (2

Division 1

Inverloch ....................... 115 114

Leongatha ....................182 131 Inverloch White ............109 100 Phillip Island.....................85 83 Korumburra ......................-6 71 Wonthaggi ..........................51 54 Foster...............................-118 51 Mirboo North ....................-68 49 Inverloch Blue.................-133 37

Korumburra Maroon .....-26 76 Mirboo North ..................-70 65 Phillip Island .....................-23 58 Port Welshpool ................-108 52

Division 5 San Remo ...................... 120 115

Division 2 Leongatha ........................-42 San Remo ..........................58 Inverloch ...........................32 Lang Lang .........................12 Meeniyan............................26 Toora .................................-29 Wonthaggi .........................-79 Tarwin Lower .....................22

99 88 88 82 68 68 52 30

Division 3 Phillip Island Blue ........265 133 Foster.................................29 89 Fish Creek .........................48 79 Wonthaggi ........................-36 76 Corinella............................-10 67 Phillip Island White .............3 66 Loch .....................................7 56 Leongatha ........................306 10

Meeniyan.........................76 104 Fish Creek ........................-14 77 Tarwin Lower ...................70 70 Loch ..................................-48 66 Wonthaggi ........................151 48

Division 6 Lang Lang .........................85 85 Philip Island....................109 81 Wonthaggi .........................41 73 Foster................................-10 72 Inverloch ............................13 70 Toora ...................................-4 57 Meeniyan.........................-104 48

Division 4 Korumburra Gold........ 112 115

San Remo .........................130 18

Loch

ANOTHER mixed week for our pennant teams. The ladies won at home against Korumburra as did the men’s Division 3 team against Corinella. Division 5 men, playing at Fish Creek, were not so fortunate. On Wednesday, the twilight bowls’ winners were Jenny Miller, Peter Stebbings and Gavin Hackett. On Thursday, social bowls winners were Margaret Fraser, Gay Garry and Patsy Polson, with Margie Cochrane taking out the roving jack. The semi ﬁnals of the men’s club championship will be played this week between Brenton Hackett and Alan Provis, and Col Cochrane and John Tuckﬁeld. Good bowling to all four men. Thursday social bowls will be the Christmas lunch, with Saturday, December 19 being the date for the main Christmas function. Your social committee has a couple of things planned for your enjoyment. We are looking forward to seeing bowlers, friends and family for that occasion.

Buffalo indoor

Novice singles: runner-up Margaret Grifﬁn (Inverloch), Joy Hargreaves (South Gippsland president) and winner Faye McKenzie (Fish Creek).

Presentation function: Arc Gammaldi and Joanne Lomagno share their obvious joy of winning special draw prizes for parlor bowls.

Ladders

shots) d Phillip Island 47 (N. Gilbert 23 d J. Farmer 19, E. O’Flaherty 26 lt E. Clarke 28). Wonthaggi 63 (30

shots) d Inverloch 33 (M. Eurell 31 d R. Davies 16, G. Mitford 32 d J. Arnold 17). Leongatha - bye (2 points).

Ladders Division 1 Foster................................+97 13 Phillip Island..................+101 12 Inverloch ........................+100 12 Wonthaggi ......................+172 11 Lang Lang ..........................-36 9 San Remo .........................-109 3 Meeniyan..........................-189 3 Leongatha.........................-136 1 Division 2 Port Welshpool .............+129 14 Korumburra .................+112 12 Loch .................................+72 11 Phillip Island...................+36 8

Wonthaggi .........................-50 Tarwin Lower ....................-77 Inverloch ...........................-86 Fish Creek .......................-136 Division 3 Korumburra ...................+44 Wonthaggi .......................+18 Foster..................................-1 Corinella..........................+36 Phillip Island ....................+74 Toora .................................-24 Leongatha..........................-54 Inverloch ...........................-96 Meeniyan............................+3

7 5 4 3 12 11 11 10 8 7 6 6 4

WEDNESDAY, December 2, welcomed along Col and Glenis Densley who we haven’t seen for a while, so we had four teams and three games of eight ends. Well done to all, scores as follows: Fourth (LLL) 7 ends, Rod McConchie, Carolyn Benson and Col Densley. Third (LWL) 13 ends, Ian Benson, Glenis Densley, Ron Gloster and Jim Atkins. Second (WLW) 13 ends, Sebastian Terranova, Bill Wolswinkle and Graeme Tobias. First (WWW) 15 ends, Glenys Pilkington, Peter Heldens, Karl Kappes and Toni Heldens. The best ﬁrst game 13-2 Glenys; second game Ian 19-3, third game Glenys 12-6. Don’t forget Wednesday, December 16 will be our ﬁnal night of bowling for the year, so come along and enjoy yourself. We will be playing two games of 10 ends and then having supper. Please bring along a small sweet, which would be much appreciated. See you all again next week at 7.30pm.

Fish Creek

TARWIN Lower were too good for our ladies and now play Wonthaggi at home this week. Both men’s teams had wins on Saturday with Division 3 winning at Phillip Island and Division 5 winning against Loch at Fish Creek. This week both teams are at home with Division 3 v Leongatha. The team is L. McKenzie, F. Carter, C. McGannon, D. Christie, R. McKenzie, R. Staley, R. Cozens, D. Livingstone, J. McLean, A. Kerr, A. Atwell and B. Everitt. The Division 5 team is H. Huybrets, D. Stefani, L. Synan, J. Lindeman, J. Stefani, R. Grylls, N. Buckland, R. Poletti, K. Flanders, W. Ferbrache, T. Taylor, F. McLaughlin. Division 5 plays Meeniyan at Fish Creek. The winners of the turkey triples day a week ago, when the weather was quite good, were Don Livingstone (skip), Gary Talbot and Paul Taylor with runner-up from Yarram, Trevor Fink (skip), Bruce Cooper and Joe Balbo. The competition winners were Jim O’Day, Joe Balbo, Allan Atwell and Bill Doran. It was very pleasing to hear that one of our newer lady bowlers, Faye McKenzie, won the Ladies Association Novice Championship for 2009-2010 after playing at Korumburra and Leongatha greens. Congratulations Faye. Our Christmas break-up is on Friday December 18 with a casserole tea starting at 6.30pm. Those still with rafﬂe tickets please have them in this week. The prizes are very good.

PAGE 58 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Allambee Mirboo and District tennis

THE Snell family have been a big part of sport in Mirboo North, with Mandy, Lauren and Matt all playing for Baromi on Saturday. Baromi won the men’s sets, Koony ladies evened the score. Although Koony won two of the mixed, Baromi had the games to win the match. Glen and Joel won a tiebreaker, Leongatha North won the other men’s sets. A nine game lead to Leongatha North before the mixed. The ﬁrst two mixed to the northerners and the match. Foster won the ladies sets, Leongatha North had the advantage in the other sets and were the winners on the day. Leongatha were the big winners in the match against Koony, winning all sets. Lucky Phil in for another game. Korrine have held third position on the ladder with a 6/3 win over Baromi. Unfortunately Korumburra had to

forfeit. Clubs can always contact the score secretary, maybe a ﬁll-in could help the team and give everyone a game. Well done to Blue, only losing by 10 games against Baromi. This team is second on the ladder. Red had a good win over Leongatha and keep within reach of second spot. Gold and Maroon played the return derby, Gold winners this round again. It is a great setting for sport and would have been a good day. Players ﬁlling in in all grades, names from other seasons going back a season or so, hope you all enjoyed. Results A Grade: Leongatha North 5.61, Leongatha 4.45; Baromi 5.61, Koonwarra 4.50; Hallston - bye. A Reserve: Leongatha 9.54, Koonwarra 0.20; Leongatha North 7.55, Foster 2.32; Korrine 6.47, Baromi 3.32; Berrys Creek - bye.

B Grade: Baromi 5.47, Mardan Blue 4.37; Outtrim Gold 7.54, Outtrim Maroon 2.27; Mardan Red 6.47, Leongatha 3.25; Koonwarra 9.54, Korumburra 0/0 forfeit; Hallston - bye.

Ladders A Grade Koonwarra ...........................70.0 Baromi ..................................60.0 Hallston ................................58.0 Leongatha North .................52.0 Leongatha..............................34.0 A Reserve Berrys Creek........................83.0 Leongatha ............................73.0 Korrine .................................62.0 Koonwarra ...........................50.0 Leongatha North ...................46.5 Baromi ..................................40.0 Foster.....................................27.5 B Grade Outtrim Gold .......................88.5 Baromi ..................................73.5 Mardan Red.........................70.5 Koonwarra ..........................65.5 Outtrim Maroon ....................47.5 Leongatha .............................44.5 Hallston .................................44.0 Mardan Blue..........................35.5 Korumburra ...........................23.5

• LEONGATHA TENNIS CLUB

Changes to night tennis THE Leongatha Tennis Club has recently decided to make some major alterations to the night tennis draws, with the aim of creating a more even competition. Section 1 night tennis will remain unchanged but the Section 2 and Section 3 draws will be altered to make three even sections of ﬁve teams each. These new sections will have new draws formulated and will commence play after the Christmas break. It is en-

visaged that this new structure will establish an even standard of competition throughout the new sections. No ﬁnals will be played in these new sections and they will play right up to the grand ﬁnal night in Section 1, with the top team being deemed the winner. This will provide teams with two full rounds of play. If any interested players are eager to get involved and put their names down or whole teams in, these new players will be placed in the appropriate section to ensure an enjoyable game is had. The Leongatha Tennis Club is particularly keen to get new play-

ers involved into our lower section. While some players may not agree with this revamped competition, the Leongatha Tennis Club felt it needed to act to allow all players to enjoy their game in an even, more enjoyable competition. All enquiries regarding these changes can be directed to night tennis co-ordinator, Greg Marshman, on 5662 3558. On a positive note, the club championship event has been rescheduled for Sunday, March 14. We hope this new date will suit a large number of players.

Mirboo North and District Junior Tennis THE ladders don’t seem to be changing much after Round 8 on Saturday, November 28. In A Grade, Mardan has secured the top spot with a massive lead. Leongatha

Adidas could still move into the four. B Grade has three teams in top spot, with Fish Creek White highest by a slight per cent. In C Grade there is time for someone out of the four to sneak into

fourth position as it is pretty close. In this week’s results there were some close matches. A Grade Leongatha Adidas defeated Fish Creek by ﬁve games in a tight three sets all. B Grade Dumbalk Aces defeated Leongatha Converse by ﬁve games in a three sets all. In C Grade all results were a bit one sided with 3/1 defeats. Some tight sets were seen but the losing teams could not secure a win.

A Grade Mardan Bombers ...383.33 M’yan Racqueteers 126.47 Fish Creek .................90.23 Baromi Legends........81.82 L’gatha Adidas ...........69.57 Baromi Superstars ......55.56

52.0 36.0 25.0 25.0 22.0 13.0

Section Two: back: Erin Howard, Harrison Cumming, Mark Beattie, Rebecca Riddiford, Kian Pratt, Tristan Hanks, Grant Cole and Matt Newton; middle: Michael Mowat, Davis Cole, Hugh Collins, Ruby Martin, Breeanna Hohmann, Zac Scholte and Jesse Salmons; front: Grace Thorson, Kayla Redpath, Hannah Potter, Maxi Park-Deere, Aiden Holwerda and Locke DeGaris.

Meeniyan junior basketball THE juniors had a terrific grand final night on November 27 with many spectators there to support all grades. Section two started the night with a round robin, most players were there and played some great short games. Many skills were shown on the night and the players showed how much they had improved throughout the season. Thanks to Terry Martin for organising the players and to Kodi, Terri P and Callan for umpiring. At the commencement of the night each player received a medallion. Any player not there may contact Kim to collect your medallion. Scorers for the night: Matthew Newton 4, M. Howard 2, Tristan Hanks 8, David Cole 8, Harrison Cumming 2, Zac Scholte 4, Grant Cole 2, Hugh Collins 4, Mark Beattie 2, Aiden Holwerda 2, Ruby Martin 2 and Kian Pratt 2. Thanks to all the coaches throughout the year who taught these young ones the great game of basketball. The grand final for Section Three was played between Green and Red. Spectators were ready for a terrific game from these players and that’s what they got. The Red team were quick off the mark with a couple of baskets, but the Green team soon regrouped to catch up. Some great defensive work and good baskets soon saw Green in front. The Red team were unlucky with some baskets and Green pulled away to

have a six point lead at half time. The Red team spent half time working a game plan to take back the game. The second half saw a tight game, both teams were having plenty of shots and some good rebounds. Red were coming back, but the clock was not in their favour, time was running out. With some hasty baskets missing, Red were running out of time quickly, some great steals from the smaller players in both teams made the last few minutes very interesting. Green held on to win by three points. Final scores: Green 18 d Red 15. A great game by all players and a hard job to pick the MVP. Will Collins from Red received the award. Coaches Tanya Eygenraam and Lucas Byrnes had worked a lot together throughout the year with the teams, and it was fitting that they finished the season with a close game. Thanks to both of them and all coaches for their dedication to the players. A great season from all players in this section, who played some great games and showing good sportsmanship. Section Four finished off the night with another close game, against Red and Black. The air was tense as the players stepped onto the court for their last game of the season. We had seen great games throughout the season so the grand final was sure to give us some magic.

The Red team was off quickly, with some great work around the court and fast goals to put them in the lead. Some great work from Black to try to stop them was working and slowly they were working it out. The game was hard and fast, with Red holding the lead at half time. Black came out in the second half a bit more settled and with a game plan. Red were eager to win, but Black were determined not to let them have it all their way. A great game by Black with many three point baskets to help bring them up to the Red score line. Red had slowed down as Black tightened their defence. With both teams in foul trouble and scores close, the last few minutes were very intense. Both teams were very eager to have the ball and throw the last goal to win the match. Red had been in front all game and were not ready to lose it. MVP was awarded to Joel Sinclair. Final scores: Red 33 d Black 32. Thanks to the coaches for their mighty effort in a tense game. Also thanks to the umpires for the season. Thanks to the Meeniyan Hotel, Meeniyan Service Station and Andy’s Pizzas for the rafﬂe prizes. Next season starts February 12, 2010

Section Four: back: Joel Sinclair, Kodi Eygenraam, Adam Bell, Kurt Sinclair, Bentia Eygenraam, Troy Sinclair, James Mabilia and Tanya Eygenraam (coach); front: Don Wilson (coach), Sam Wilson, Daniel Potter, Emily Wilson, Daniel Britton, Jacob Densley, Georgia Findlay and Krystal Humphrey.

B Grade Fish Creek White ...169.39 Dumbalk Aces .........163.50 L’gatha Converse ...134.31 L’gatha Asics ........... 110.61 Mardan Lions ..........102.l65 Fish Creek Red...........96.61 Meeniyan B ................69.43 Baromi........................18.45

28.0 28.0 28.0 21.0 20.0 20.0 14.0 3.0

C Grade L’gatha Pumas ........315.69 36.0 Fish Creek ...............221.21 30.0 Mardan Rebels .......147.37 27.5 L’gatha Reeboks .....128.43 22.0 L’gatha Dunlops .........95.52 21.0 L’gathas North..........125.71 18.5 Baromi Reebok ..........74.36 14.0 Baromi Nike ................45.51 8.0 Hallston .......................38.13 7.0

Section Three: back: Tanya Eygenraam (coach), Tess Black, Paige Eygenraam, Tenille Leicester, Matt Darmanin, Liam Harrington, Brett Thorson and Lucas Byrnes (Red Coach); front: Will Collins, Ossy Brennan-Holt, Eloise Scholte, Hannah Thorson, Sophie Thomas and Jordan Bell.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 59

Volleyball wraps up in ’Burra KORUMBURRA Volleyball held its ﬁnal night for the Spikezone Volleyball competition on Thursday, November 26 at the Korumburra Recreation Centre. Spikezone is volleyball for primary school-aged children. Dynamite Crispies beat MNM’s in the preliminary ﬁnal to seal their

place in the grand final. The grand final against Tricky Tricksters was tightly fought, with Dynamite Crispies taking the first set. However, Tricky Tricksters were able to win the next two sets and the final: 11:15, 15:8, 8:4. The President’s Award was presented to Andrea Axford and the P triple C Most Disciplined Player

award to Harry McNeil. Next season the Spikezone competition will move with Korumburra volleyball to the Leongatha SPLASH stadium. Spikezone and Juniors will start on February 19 2010 while the senior competition starts a week earlier. Any enquiries to Mandy on 5662 4395.

Leaping up: Julian Patterson and Wesley Graeme succeeded at the Australian Track and Field Championships.

Duo star on national stage TWO boys are literally taking their sport to new heights after competing at the Australian Track and Field Championships in Sydney last week. Julian Patterson of Leongatha and Wesley Graeme of Mirboo North both contested the high jump event, placing sixth and eighth respectively. Both boys jumped an impressive 1.45m, and Julian placed just ahead of Wesley after a countback. The boys, both 11, are members of the Leongatha Little Athletics Club and qualiﬁed

to represent Victoria after starring at the state championships. Wesley won that event and Julian placed second. In the long jump relay Julian and Wesley came third as part of the Victorian team. Sprinter Shane Byrne from St Josephs Primary School in Korumburra came ninth in the 11-year-old boys 100 metre with a time of 13.99seconds. In the 200 metre event Shane ﬁnished eighth in a time of 29.02 seconds. The championships were held at the Olympic Park Athletics Centre between November 30 and December 2.

Locals star in Hobart THE South Coast Athletics club has had 10 of its athletes competing at the Australian All Schools track and ﬁeld championships in Hobart over the last four days. As the name suggests, All Schools is the national championship that decides the best student athlete in the country from all school systems: private, public, Catholic and primary. At this point in time nine out of the 10 have completed their events and South Coast

athletes (representing their schools) have collected four silver and one bronze medal from nine events. Results Under 16 girls 100 metres: second Angela Byrne 12.27, (winner 12.24). Under 17 boys 3000 metres: second Sam Quirk 8.51.06 (winner 8.49.06). Under 14 girls high jump: second Eleanor Patterson 1.70 metres, (winner 1.70 count back). Under 15 boys hammer throw: second Patrick Ryan 48.63 metres (winner 50.31). Under 14 girls 1500 metre walk: third Stephanie George

7.08.06 (winner 6.59.77). 16th Jasmine Irshad 7.43.48. Under 17 girls shot put: 5th Kristie Bryden 11.72 metres (winner 12.36). Under 16 girls 3000 metre walk: 6th Cassandra Raselli 15.36.63 (winner 14.18.07). Under 15 boys 3000 metre walk: 11th Lucas Taylor 16.28.69 (winner 13.32.92). Under 18 girls pole vault: Alana Green. Event still to come. Three other athletes who qualiﬁed for the championships, were unable to make the competition.

Leongatha Little Athletics AN impressive 107 personal best times were recorded at Leongatha Little Athletics Club’s ninth meeting last Saturday, December 5, despite a smaller field of 104 competitors. Two centre records were also broken. Wes Graeme scorched across the velodrome oval turf in the Under 12 boys’ 50m, hitting the line in 7.38 seconds to shave two tenths of a second from Billy Curtis’ 2006/07 record. And in the sandpit, Christine Byrne reached 3.80m in the Under 11 girls’ long jump. Next Saturday’s meeting is the final competition before the holiday recess, with the season resuming on January 31, 2010. A special presentation will be made to the ‘On Track’ competitors, all of whom have shown great improvement and gained enormous confidence in running, jumping

and throwing since the season commenced in October. Please note that entry forms (with payment) are due on December 12 for the Gippsland Region Track and Field Championships, to be held at Newborough on Sunday, February 21. Forms and further details are available from www.leongathalac.com. The club urges member families and friends to support the IGA Market Day at the Leongatha and Korumburra Michael’s SupaIGA stores this Thursday, December 10. The club is also running an SPC fundraiser to help purchase a much-needed hurdles trolley. Orders with payment must also be handed in at the information desk by December 12. Order forms can be downloaded from the website.

Sheppard’s coach of the year SOUTH Gippsland tennis coach Mark Sheppard was awarded the prestigious Tennis Coaches Victoria George Gilmour 2009 Memorial Trophy Club Coach of the year at the Royal South Yarra Tennis Club recently. It recognised his contribution to tennis in the South Gippsland area over a 28 year period. Sheppard with his wife,

Annette and assistant coaches Matthew Pocklington, Michael Grist and Warwick Harris have organised coaching classes at all levels from 4 to 7-yearold programs, beginner, intermediate and advanced classes in clubs throughout South Gippsland. Sheppard has also been working with six young elite players with Australian rankings including his youngest son James, who is currently 465th in Australia. Sheppard has also run the program at the prestigious Geelong Grammar School for 18 years, is a high

performance, elite level coach in Australia and also registered with the United States Professional Tennis Association. A former VTA pennant player of the year and World Masters Doubles Champion, Sheppard is also the International Director of Kanga Tennis Tours International. He will be taking a party of 65 to compete in the New Zealand summer circuit shortly. Sheppard was presented with his award by the Manager of the Australian Open, Craig Tiley.

Spikezone participants and award winners: back: Luke Malherbe, Josh McNab, Ryan Delbridge, Matilda McNeil, Lachlan Perrott and Lachlan Meechan; front: Nathan Perrott, Dylan Russell, Andrea Axford (President’s Award), Harry McNeil (MDP award) and James Leek. Right: Grand ﬁnal winners: team Tricky Tricksters back: Josh McNab and Luke Malherbe; front: Dylan Russell and Harry McNeil. They competed in the Spikezone competition at Korumburra volleyball.

Venus Bay Angling Club NINETEEN members fished in the Venus Bay Angling Club’s December competition held on the weekend commencing Friday, December 4. This was a two and a half day competition and the de Hamer brothers once again scooped the pool, taking out first, second and heaviest gummy shark prizes. Senior results: First place: Paul de Hamer with a snapper weighing in at 1.860g. Second place: Michael de Hamer, with a whiting of 460g. Third place: John Watson, a perch of 520g. Junior results: First place: Lucy Auselbrook, trevally 480g. Heaviest gummy shark: Michael de Hamer, 4.640g. There were some “secret weight” prizes awarded, with the Auselbrook family the stand out winners in this category. Lucy, Annie and Tom Auselbrook all won prizes, as well as Phil Nebel and Arthur Duckworth. For more information on our club, please visit our website at www.venusbayanglingclub.org.au. Or send us an email to vbanglingclub@primusonline.com.au. The next competition will be on the weekend commencing Friday, January 1. This will be a three day competition which commences at 6am, and final weigh-in will be at 3pm on Sunday, January 3. A reminder to members the club’s Annual General Meeting and presentation night will be held on Saturday, January 2 at the Venus Bay Community Centre. As usual, the formalities of the night will be followed by a barbecue.

First place: Paul de Hamer with a snapper weighing in at 1.860g at the Venus Bay Angling Club December competition.

Right: Michael de Hamer: had the heaviest gummy shark, weighing 4.640g.

Wonthaggi Little athletics cracks the ton SEVENTY-FIVE athletes produced one club record and 100 PBs in what turned out to be pretty good conditions on Saturday. Congratulations to Taylah Cook who broke the Under 9 Girls 800 Metres record. A great effort considering it was the ﬁrst time she has ever raced the distance. Well done to Connor Thompson (U10) who produced four PBs from his ﬁve events. There were eight other athletes who had three PBs.

Entries for the Regional Championships to be held at Moe on February 21 2010 need to be in by next Saturday. If you wish to enter but haven’t received an entry form, ring Terra on 5672 4299 before December 18. The Regional Championships are a fantastic opportunity for the kids to test themselves against the best from other clubs. They get to compete on a proper synthetic athletics surface and in front of a huge crowd. Almost every child does massive PBs at these events so please give it some serious thought. Wonthaggi has won the Regional Shield for the last

three seasons. With three new clubs joining our Region this year we will have to work much harder to retain it. Club uniforms must be worn at Regional and State Championships. VLAA are very strict on uniform policy, check your handbook for details or consult a committee member. If you wish to purchase or hire a uniform, please see Sally Lowe. Just a reminder that this coming Saturday December 12 will be the last Litle Ath’s meet before the Christmas break. Little Ath’s will resume in the new year on Saturday January 30 2010.

PAGE 60 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

James Sheppard in tennis cup win INVERLOCH’S James Sheppard has spearheaded Central Gippsland’s win in Tennis Victoria’s Ambassadors Cup.

For the first time since its inception in 2003, Central Gippsland won the Cup, played at the Rye Tennis Club. James Sheppard and a student at the Newhaven College led the charge for Central Gippsland in the number one position, winning all his singles matches against five different regions. Previously the Barwon region has had a stranglehold on this event, winning on every occasion apart from once where the Mornington Peninsula was successful. The side was relentless over the two days of play. On the first day’s play they accounted for the Bendigo Region 4 sets to 2 then overcame the Warrnambool Region 5 sets to 1. On the second day’s play they defeated the Mornington Peninsula 6 sets to zero and then went on to defeat the Wimmera Region 5 sets to 1. With these four wins under their belt they become the winner of their pool and set up an epic final against their close rivals East Gippsland

Central Gippsland: Tennis Victoria Ambassadors Cup winners from left: Emma Waite (Traralgon), Sophie Grumley (Traralgon), Mark Sheppard (team manager Inverloch), James Sheppard (Inverloch) and Nick Tile (Traralgon).

who caused an upset in defeating the highly fancied Barwon. In the final, James Sheppard, who was undefeated all week put in a great performance against Mitchell Allman from Maffra, who was also undefeated, winning 8/5. Sophie Grumley, who was the number one girl had two match points against Stephanie Barnett in an injury interrupted match and went down valiantly in a tie-breaker. Nick Tile from Traralgon then came out firing and won 8/5 against Jamie Kemp and Emma Waite, the number two girl for Central Gippsland produced her best form for the week in demolishing Eliza Shanahan 8/2. This put Central Gippsland in a strong position going into the mixed, where they lost the first one in a tiebreaker and won the second mixed 8/2. Central Gippsland won the final 4 sets to 2 and by a resounding 16 games. Well done to James Sheppard from the Inverloch area and Nick Tile, Sophie Grumley and Emma Waite, all from Traralgon on Central Gippsland’s first win ever in this competition.

LDCA cricket scoreboard Round 3 - Day 2 B Grade FOSTER has secured victory in its game against Imperials, with some big batting performances in its first innings. Johnston (69) and Wagstaff (62) shone, with 131 runs between them. It was a total Imperials struggled to reach in its first innings stand. The team did better in its second innings, with Connelly (71) and Langstaff (59) both hitting some sweet shots. Langstaff was also a shining light with the ball, taking 3/4. NERRENA has triumphed over Wonthaggi Workmens, claiming a first innings victory. Workmens faltered in its first innings chase, making just 77 runs. The team rallied in its second innings, with Britt finishing on 94 not out. Bolding (52) and Harvey (79) also batted well. GLEN ALVIE won its first innings over Korumburra, with Edwards leading the way with an aggressive 70 run performance that included nine fours and one six. Hales was another good contributor, hitting 26 not out as a tail ender and doing well with the ball too – 4/55. Korumburra scored 152 in its first innings and Glen Alvie 104 in its second innings. The Burra did not bat a second time. OMK defeated Phillip Island, scoring a big 249 runs in its first innings. Phillip Island’s reply was a solid 170. While the top order of Santalucia (76), Velardi (run out 35) and Matthews (run out 43) set the pace early, the Island struggle thereafter, with five players falling for ducks. OMK’s McMeekin and Paterson were devastating with the ball, claiming six

wickets between them for just 32 runs. On the other side of the ledger Phillip Island’s Kleverkamp was slick with the ball, claiming 4/68. FOSTER v IMPERIALS 1st Innings Foster Total .......................................273 1st Innings Imperials A. Pellin r.o. ...............................0 L. Hettiarachchi c. M. Comben b. P. Jervies............................ 11 R. Mullens b. R. Johnston ........26 N. Slater c. G. Wagstaff b. P. Jervies..............................2 T. Burgess b. P. Jervies ............. 11 D. Connelly c. T. Garvey b. P. Jervies............................19 D. Langstaff lbw. b. R. Johnston..........................0 M. Collins n.o. ......................... 11 J. Forrester r.o. ...........................1 J. Fiddelaers b. B. Tilley ............0 C. Roughead c&b J. Staley ........4 Extras .......................................12 Total .........................................97 Bowling: B. Coates 0/21, P. Jervies 4/49, R. Johnston 2/18, B. Tilley 1/3, J. Staley 1/3. 2nd Innings Imperials L. Hettiarachchi c. M. Comben b. D. Clearihan-Jervies ............6 M. Collins b. D. Clearihan-Jervies ............5 D. Connelly c. T. Garvey b. R. Johnston........................71 R. Mullens c. T. Garvey b. B. Coates ...........................18 D. Langstaff r.o. .......................59 A. Pellin b. B. Tilley ..................5 T. Burgess c. P. Dower b. B. Tilley...............................0 N. Slater lbw. b. B. Tilley...........2 J. Forrester n.o..........................10 J. Fiddelaers b. M. Comben .......9 C. Roughead n.o.........................0 Extras .......................................27 Total ....................................9/213 Bowling: D. Clearihan-Jervies 2/30, B. Coates 1/53, J. Staley 0/18, R. Johnston 1/43, P. Jervies 0/28, B. Tilley 3/21, M. Comben 1/6. OMK v PHILLIP ISLAND 1st Innings Phillip Island Total ....................................... 170 1st Innings OMK K. Kerr c. E. Richards b. A. Matthews ...................... 11 P. Miller c. M. Cleary b. E. Richards ........................27 A. Rose c. O. Santalucia b. J. Kleverkamp ...................10 J. Van Rooye c. L. Keating b. E. Richards ..........................0 D. McMeekin b. J. Klevrekamp ...................80 T. Wyatt c. R. Velardi b. J. Kleverkamp ...................24 J. Paterson lbw. b. J. Kleverkamp ...................17 D. Jeffries c. E. Richards b. D. Johnston .......................10 T. Creed n.o. .............................20 N. Adams r.o. ........................... 11 B. Nation n.o. ..........................30 Extras .........................................9 Total ....................................9/249 Bowling: A. Matthews 0/21, J. Kleverkamp 4/68, S. Docherty 0/17, O. Santalucia 0/22, E. Richards 2/23, R. Velardi 0/27, D. Johnston 1/44, J. Sorarti 0/15, M.

Cleary 0/4. NERRENA v WONTHAGGI WORKMENS 1st Innings Nerrena Total ....................................9/205 1st Innings Wonthaggi Workmens S. Huitema c. T. Trotman b. B. Castles ..........................30 S. Bolding c. Z. Trease b. L. Brandon ..........................0 D. Britt c. T. Trotman b. Z. Trease..............................2 C. Harvey b. L. Brandon ............4 L. Sawyer r.o. L Brandon .........19 J. Bolding c. T. Trotman b. B. Croatto ............................0 C. Pitman b. B. Castles ..............6 A. McLean c. A. Harrison b. B. Castles ............................8 M. McCall lbw. b. B. Croatto.....0 N. Tessarri b. B. Croatto ............0 M. Cadwallender n.o. .................4 Extras .........................................4 Total .........................................77 Bowling: L. Brandon 2/19, Z. Trease 1/26, B. Coratto 3/16, B. Castles 3/13. 2nd Innings Wonthaggi Workmens S. Huitema c&b. L. Brandon ....0 S. Bolding c. T. Trotman b. B. Croatto ..........................52 D. Britt n.o. ..............................94 C. Harvey c. C. Baudinette b. Z. Trease............................79 Extras .........................................8 Total ....................................2/233 Bowling: L. Brandon 1/53, Z. Trease 1/44, B. Castles 0/35, W. Telfer 0/34, G. Murphy 0/15, B. Croatto 1/22, C. Baudinette 0/28. GLEN ALVIE v KORUMBURRA 1st Innings Glen Alvie Total .......................................223 1st Innings Korumburra R. Webster stp. B. Tiley b. L. Gennicarro ....................16 K. Rigby b. S. Nippers ...............2 G. Barrett lbw. b. S. Edwards ........................65 T. Allen c. B. Tiley b. S. Nippers..........................26 C. Bailey c. B. Tiley b. J. Hales ................................4 H. Wyhoon b. J. Hales................0 S. Phillips b. J. Hales .................2 N. Allen lbw. b. S. Nippers ........1 L. Williams n.o. ..........................0 A. Meade c. S. Nippers b. J. Hales ..............................35 Extras .........................................1 Total .......................................152 Bowling: J. Hales 4/55, S. Nippers 3/38, L. Gennicarro 1/17, R. Bolding 0/15, S. Edwards 1/25. 2nd Innings Glen Alvie S. Edwards b. S. Phillips ............4 L. Gennicarro b. L. Williams ....6 G. Chappell b. N. Allen............44 J. Wheeler b. S. Phillips ........... 11 R. Bolding b. S. Phillips.............6 B. Tiley b. N. Allen ....................3 A. Hamilton c. A. Meade b. K. Rigby ...............................5 J. Hales no. .................................7 E. Sheerin c. S. Phillips b. K. Rigby ..............................8 S. Nippers n.o.............................2 Extras .........................................8 Total ....................................8/104 Bowling: S. Phillips 3/30, L. Williams 1/24, N. Allen 2/25, A. Meade 0/7, K. Rigby 2/15.

C Grade Town 161 and 6/93 (T. Willcocks 33 (J. Poynton 2/14, G. Frandsen 2/20) d Poowong/Loch 125 (P. Duffus r.o. 39; C. Fraser n.o. 10; B. Moore 5/52, W. Turner 2/28). OMK 195 (G. Lomagno 48, W. Dowell 81, G. Smith 1; J. Loos 3/27, C. Honeysett 3/29) and 6/160 (G. Lomagno n.o. 58, W. Hayes n.o. 10; C. Honeysett 3/12) d Wonthaggi Miners 63 (D. Jagoe 13, M. Greenway n.o. 13; M. Hems 4/7, N. Besley 2/18, G. Smith 1/2). MDU 150 and 5/78 (G. Peters 27, A. Hill n.o. 14; S. Morison) d Wonthaggi Workmens 146 (M. Turton 29, M .Sharp n.o. 4; T. Zukovskis 2/44, N. Hill 2/34, C. Harris 2/47). Koonwarra RSL 64 and 7/224 (S. Turner 37, N. Grimes n.o. 65; T. Stybosh 2/19) d Fish Creek/Tarwin 64 and 8/176 (C. Fisher 40, W. Cocksedge n.o. 24, J. Buckalnd n.o. 7; T. Davison 3/35, E. Charles 4/26).

D Grade Inverloch 215 and 161 (I. Smith 49, P. Jobling 41, J. Ogden n.o. 2; R. O’Loughlin 3/53, G. Wright 4/28) d Imperials 132 and 3/31 (A. Hosking n.o. 18, P. McCaughan n.o. 2; I. Fowler 2/6). Phillip Island 124 and 3/130 (D. Kenter 40, M. Manteit n.o. 25; C. Eldred 1/12, D. Goss 1/18) lt Town 136 (J. Schelling 37; B. Johnston 3/22, P. Francis 3/18). Koonwarra RSL 50 and 6/82 (L. Hughes 18, G. Matthies n.o. 18; K. Clark 3/15) lt Nerrena 3/181 (B. Standfield n.o. 70, G. Giliam n.o. 43). Glen Alvie 119 lt Korumburra 185 (S. McKenzie 41, S. Hall n.o. 8; J. Huitson 2/29, P. Palmer 3/50).

E Grade Poowong/Loch 6/241 (M. Hancock r.o. 63, S. Poynton 73, S. Magnusson n.o. 6; D. Hughes 3/38) d MDU 170. OMK won on forfeit Town. Phillip Island 199 (C. Daw 32, A. Horvarth ret. n.o. 18, S. Loiacono n.o. 32; N. Brosnan 6/39, J. Waters 2/19) d Wonthaggi Miners 77 and 105 (B. Forsyth 68, A. Johnson 12; P. Cashman 4/10, S. Furniss 2/13, C. Plant 2/9). Wonthaggi Workmens 113 (D. McGuirk 31, K. Jamieson 25, R. McGuirk n.o. 14; S. Lanyon 5/28, S. Chaseling 2/24, J. Richer 2/17) d Foster 111 and 4/54 (S. Jones n.o. 22, S. Chaseling n.o. 12; R. McGuirk 2/4).

Under 16 East Koonwarra RSL 6/197 (B. Tomada 52, C. Moscript n.o. 15, C. Moscript n.o. 6; J. Flanders 3/18) d Fish Creek/Tarwin 6/122 (Z. Redpath 43, R. McGannon n.o. 29, D. Britton n.o. 10; C. Moscript 4/12). MDU 149 lt Imperials 7/260 (M. Elliott ret. n.o. 60, A. Pellin 48, J. Stewart ret. n.o. 51; J. Opray 2/39, J. Brown 3/25). Town 104 lt Korumburra

9/154 (N. Allen n.o. 36, R. Stewart n.o. 4; N. Tuckett 3/30, N. Moore 2/16, N. Hawkins 2/14). Foster d Glen Alvie. No results available.

Under 16 West Wonthaggi Workmens Gold 3/181 and 5/31 (J. Liddle 14, J. Thomas n.o. 1; T. Lancaster 3/14) d Poowong/Loch 8/85 (J. Poynton 28, J. Reid n.o. 4. M. McCall 2/9, L. McLean 5/40). Wonthaggi Miners 6/163 d OMK 8/143 (A. Harrison 39, R. Wyatt n.o. 8; A. Schreck 3/15). Inverloch 21 and 54 (A. Brayley 31, A. Raveendran n.o. 5) lt Phillip Island 5/170 (J. Sorarti ret. n.o. 71, A. Officer n.o. 27, M. Francis n.o. 3; J. Black 2/33). Wonthaggi Workmens Blue v Glen Alvie. No details available.

GCL Cricket 1st Innings Alberton Cricket Association J. Swift c. P. Dyer b. A. Eddy ...........................109 N. Milne b. A. Eddy ...................0 A. Bland c. P. Dyer b. A. Simpson ..........................7 D. Rash c. C. Thomas b. J. Helman ..........................64 D. Quigley b. A. Eddy................2 J. LeBlanc c. M. Johnson b. A. Eddy ...............................0 S. Grazotis c. J. Helman b. M. Johnson ..........................3 C. Sutherland stp. P .Dyer b. J. Helman ..........................13 B. Dyke n.o. .............................16 R. Coulthard c. C. Thomas b. M. Johnson ........................ 11 M. Lush n.o. ...............................3 Extras .........................................7 Total ....................................9/235 Bowling: A. Jenkins 0/37, A. Eddy 4/29, A. Simpson 1/35, T. Wightman 0/47, M. Johnson 2/35, C. Wise 0/15, J. Helman 2/30. 1st Innings Leongatha District Cricket Association G. Sauvarin c. A. Bland b R. Millhouse.........................6 T. Wightman b. R. Millhouse .....4 J. Helman c. J. Swift b. C. Sutherland.....................41 P. Dyer c. B. Dyke b. J. Swift ..............................12 R. Templeton r.o. ......................21 M. Johnson b. D. Rash .............13 C. Thomas r.o. R. Millhouse, C. Sutherland...........................0 C. Wise c. N. Milne b. C. Sutherland.......................9 A. Simpson c. M. Lush b .C. Sutherland.....................40 A. Eddy c. J. Swift b. C. Sutherland.......................2 A. Jenkins n.o.............................7 Extras .........................................9 Total .......................................164 Bowling: R. Millhouse 2/23, J. Swift 1/26, S. Grazotis 0/19, C. Sutherland 4/41, D. Rash 1/41.

Cricket under lights KOONWARRA Leongatha RSL and Town cricket clubs will meet under lights this Saturday night at the Leongatha Recreation Reserve. The clubs are hoping the night game will become something of a tradition. Koony D Grade captain Matt Pickersgill said the game would start at about 5pm, after the senior clash. “We’re hoping to make this a bit of a tradition,” he said. The E Grade teams met two years ago in what Matt described as a “really good spectacle”. “It’s a fantastic place to play, so it should be really good,” he said. ****** Two Leongatha players have been selected to represent Gippsland, both from Phillip Island, Alex Manteit and Eli Richards, congratulations to both players. This competition is played in Melbourne in January.

• GCL UNDER 16

LDCA by eight runs LEONGATHA won its Under 16 GCL match on Sunday, December 6 by 8 runs over an undefeated Bairnsdale. Bairnsdale won the toss and sent Leongatha in. Openers Mitchell Elliott 21 and Alex Pellin 10 gave us a solid start of 24 off 13 overs on a pitch which tended to be a bit slow, against an attack which has been successful in earlier games. We lost our captain, Alex Manteit, run out for 2 and Sam Huitema for 5 to be 4/50 off 24 overs. Eli Richards from Phillip Island was batting well, he and Thomas Wyatt 17 took the score to 95, Mark McCall, 13 runs, added 24 with Eli; with the score at 119 we lost three wickets including Eli Richards for a very well compiled 40. The last pair, Eamon Charles and Tim Harris took the score to 9/126 when our 50 overs were up. A good score considering the slowness of the wicket and the outfield, probably worth 150-160 with a quicker outfield there was one four in the innings. Bairnsdale batted after lunch with Mark McCall and Jordan Poynton opening the attack, both bowled a very good line. Mark picked up a couple of early wickets including H. Erfurth for 5 who had made three centuries in his last three hits. Mark finished with 3/16 off 10 overs Jordan 0/12 off 5 overs. Eli Richards picked up 2

wickets for 22 off 10 overs and Tim Harris who also bowled a good line, taking 3/32 including the ﬁnal wicket caught and bowled. Thomas Wyatt and Eamon Charles chipped in with 14 overs of spin, Thomas 0/27 off 9 overs and Eamon 1/9 off ﬁve overs. With four overs to go Bairnsdale needed 20 runs and Leongatha needed two wickets, a direct hit run out by Thomas Wyatt after some near misses and a great caught and bowled got Leongatha over the line with 8 runs to spare. The real positives out of the game, Leongatha conceded only one sundry, a no ball, which shows how well the bowlers controlled their line and length.

Central Gippsland Results Round 8 Day one Yallourn North 87 Brendan Brincat 5/24 v Newborough Bulldogs 7/135. Moe 9/189 Andrew Philip 52 v Mirboo North. Moe were 7/126 before 14 and 15 year old Jayden Mathison 38 not out and Sean Spiteri 22 added 63 for the eighth wicket. Jayden’s twin brother Justin made 21. The average age of Moe on Saturday was 19. Latrobe 9/221 Kris Wells 55, Mick Higgins 5/79 v Morwell. Morwell bowled 90 overs with Mark Cukier bowling 37 overs for 1/76.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 61

• LDCA A GRADE DIVISION ONE

Wightman hero for Nerrena TIM Wightman proved to be the hero in Nerrena’s nail biting victory over Wonthaggi Workmens. Chasing 9/239, Workmens appeared to be in the box seat at 7/236, needing just four runs with plenty of overs left. Enter Tim Wightman who took out Geyer for one, and McQuirk and Williams for ducks to claim 3/0 and finish the innings with figures of 4/57. James Sherrin was left stranded at 20 not out for Workers. This was following Wightman’s 46 the week before as opening bat. Tim Hooper was top scorer in the Workers’ innings with 90 including 14 boundaries. Harvey smashed 38 and Thomas 29 but Workers failed at the final hurdle. Chris Rump bowled superbly for Nerrena, taking 5/73 from 29 overs;

openers Steve and David Brann, Gavin Britt then Hooper and Harvey. Hat trick to Dell Peter Dell took a hat trick in OMK’s win over Wonthaggi Miners 7/263 to Miners 9/205. Miners batted ﬁrst last week and Peter Dell’s hat trick came late in the innings when he dismissed Trevisi, Zanella, and the unlucky Birkett bowled to claim his milestone. On Saturday OMK had little trouble recording victory and passed the score with the loss of just ﬁve wickets. Despite starting disastrously when they were 1/0 after Tim Miller fell for a duck, Nathan Creed steadied the innings with 74 while Kit Rothier made 34, Michael Grabham 48 and Barry Wyatt not out 48. Imperials defend well Imperials managed to defend their 169 scoreline

to have Inverloch all out for 116. Geof Forrester 4/20 and Adam Eddy 3/25 proved to be the deciding factors in this match, with a number of batsmen gaining starts but not going on with it. Xavier Davis had his catching arm going, with three catches in this match. Korumburra score Korumburra scored a win over Glen Alvie while also defending a low score, the Cobras winning 163 to Glen Alvie’s 105. Udara Weerasinghe had the Glen Alvie bats tied up in knots, claiming a fine 4/19. Kyle Dorman completed a fine match with his 59 not out and 3/34. Glen Alvie’s Alex Simpson with 34 and Stuart Lowe 22 not out figured as the best bats.

A GRADE DIVISION 1 INVERLOCH v IMPERIALS 1st Innings Imperials Total ....................................... 169

1st Innings Inverloch W. Taberner c. T. Williams b. A. Eddy .............................10 S. Brayley c. X. Davis b. J. Pellicano ..........................7 D. Ruffin c. M. Lafferty b. A. Eddy ...............................1 B. Debono c. A. Eddy b. M. Malloy .........................21 W. Rankin c. T. Williams b. A. Eddy .............................21 J. Smith c. X. Davis b. G. Forrester .........................0 J. Rankin c. X. Davis b. J. Pellicano ........................25 N. Cant b. G. Forrester ...............9 A. Ware c. M. Lafferty b. G. Forrester .......................10 A. Hall stp. T. Williams b. G. Forrester .........................1 L. Rankin n.o..............................1 Extras .......................................10 Total ....................................... 116 Bowling: A. Eddy 3/25, J. Pellicano 2/12, M. Malloy 1/24, M. Lafferty 0/16, G. Forrester 4/20, X. Davis 0/10. 2nd Innings Imperials X. Davis n.o. .............................5 M. Lafferty c. W. Rankin b. J. Rankin .............................7 A. Eddy c. W. Taberner b. L. Rankin.............................0 M. Malloy n.o. ...........................1 Extras .........................................1 Total ......................................2/14 Bowling: N. Cant 0/2, L. Rankin 1/7, J. Rankin 1/2, B. Debono 0/3. WONTHAGGI MINERS

v OMK 1st Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Donohue c&b. P. Dell .........88 J. Andrighetto c. R. White b. M. Adams ..........................23 C. Thomas c. J. Wilson b. B. Wyatt ............................36 M. Johnson lbw. b. J. Wilson .....8 J. O’Reilly b. M. Adams ............3 J. Helman c. P. Harper b. M. Adams ............................7 D. Beesey n.o. ..........................16 J. Trevisi lbw. b. P. Dell .............4 B. Zanella b. P. Dell ...................0 R. Birkett b. P. Dell ....................0 R. Jones n.o. ...............................0 Extras .......................................20 Total ....................................9/205 Bowling: P. Dell 4/59, J. Wilson 1/45, L. Van Rooye 0/4, M. Adams 3/26, B. Wyatt 1/34, K. Rothier 0/12, R. White 0/6. 1st Innings OMK T. Miller lbw. b. J. Trevisi .........0 N. Creed c. R. Birkett b. B. Zanella ..........................74 D. Creed c. J. Andrighetto b. J. Trevisi ..............................4 K. Rothier c. M. Donohue b. B. Zanella ..........................34 J. Wilson c. C. Thomas b. M. Johnson ........................10 R. White c. R. Birkett b. M. Johnson ........................25 M. Grabham c. J. Andrighetto b. B. Zanella ..........................48 B. Wyatt n.o. ............................48 P. Dell n.o. ................................12 Extras .........................................8 Total ....................................7/263

Bowling: J. Trevisi 2/59, R. Birkett 0/21, J. Helman 0/34, B. Zanella 3/43, M. Johnson 2/52, J. Andrighetto 0/40, M.Donohue 0/8. WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v NERRENA 1st Innings Nerrena Total ....................................9/239 1st Innings Wonthaggi Workmens D. Brann c. C. Friebe b. C. Rump ............................ 11 S. Brann c. C. Friebe b. C. Rump ............................17 G. Britt c. C. Friebe b. C. Rump ............................16 T. Hooper c. R. Clark b. C. Rump ............................90 R. Thomas b. T. Wightman ......29 C. Harvey c&b. C. Rump .........38 M. Thomas c. D. Trotman b J. Trease.............................10 J. Sherrin n.o. ...........................20 R. Geyer b. T. Wightman ...........1 L. McGuirk lbw. b. T. Wightman ........................0 S. Williams b. T. Wightman .......0 Extras .........................................4 Total .......................................236 Bowling: C. Rump 5/73, J. Trease 1/63, M. Chackochan 0/39, T. Wightman 4/57. KORUMBURRA v GLEN ALVIE 1st Innings Korumburra Total .......................................163 1st Innings Glen Alvie M. Roberts c. A. Balfour b. K. Dorman...........................0 P. Roberts c. A. Balfour

b. K. Dorman...........................0 D. Hynes b. U. Weerasinghe ......4 P. Jordan c. I. Osman b. U. Weerasinghe ...................1 J. Beasley b. K. Dorman ............3 A. Donohue c. A. Balfour b. M. Patching .........................2 A. Simpson c. U. Weerasinghe b. D. Wyhoon ........................34 C. Tait c. P. Edwards b. U. Weerasinghe ...................8 D. Tiziani c. U. Weerasinghe b. J. Cook ................................2 S. Lowe n.o. .............................22 K. Simpson c. A. Balfour b. D. Scott .............................19 Extras .......................................10 Total .......................................105 Bowling: K. Dorman 3/34, M. Patching 1/11, U. Weerasinghe 4/19, I. Osman 0/11, D. Wyhoon 1/24, D. Scott 1/0. 2nd Innings Korumburra D. Salmon c. M. Roberts b. D. Tiziani ..........................64 I. Osman b. D. Tiziani ..............39 U. Weerasinghe b. P. Roberts b. D. Tiziani...........................10 D. Wyhoon c. P. Roberts b. A. Simpson ........................42 B. Hayes n.o. ............................27 P. Edwards n.o. ...........................5 Extras .........................................9 Total ....................................4/196 Bowling: A. Simpson 1/23, P. Roberts 0/23, C. Tait 0/48, J. Beasley 0/23, K. Simpson 0/40, D. Tiziani 3/32.

LDCA A Grade Division Two cricket PHILLIP Island had claimed outright victory, with a massive ﬁrst innings score against Wonthaggi Miners.

A middle order assault by Hornsby (126) and Wilson (117) saw the team reach 7/346. The Island sent Wonthaggi Miners in to bat, but the team did not come close in either of its two batting performances. The Island’s bowling stocks run deep, as proven in both innings. While the Boyack, Price, Kirton and Cleeland were all devastating in the first innings, getting Wonthaggi Miners out for a paltry total of 65, opening batman Wilson came into the attack in the second innings, taking 3/8. Wilson also took three catches during Wonthaggi Workmens two innings stand. Poowong Loch has claimed first innings victory from Inverloch, after it capitulated with a disastrous 87 run opening. Greaves (3/29) and Jenkins (3/31) cut holes in the Inverloch defence. Hancock (56) and Nester (46) led the charge for Poowong Loch, with a sold batting performance. Inverloch did even worse in its second innings with a meagre 78 run stand. Koonwarra Leongatha RSL has claimed first innings victory in its match against Fish Creek Tarwin. There were no huge batting performances from either side, but Fish Creek Tarwin’s 79 runs was always going to lead it to inevitable defeat. Koony’s Sperling was slick with the ball, taking 3/29 in the first innings. Rabbitt continued his good form for Fishy, taking 3/39 in the first innings. Koony’s Kennedy was outstanding, cutting through the Fishy defence in the second innings, claiming all three wickets on the day, with the impressive figures of 3/10. Town was far too good for MDU, which fell well short of its first innings target of 220

runs. Town’s Hickey bowled a scintillating spell to claim 4/23. Johnston was on song in the second innings with 2/16. There were few standout performers for MDU, though Browne bowled well, taking 3/45.

A GRADE DIVISION 2 POOWONG/LOCH v INVERLOCH 1st Innings Inverloch Total .........................................87 1st Innings Poowong/Loch M. Adderley c. A. Brayley b. B. Phillips............................5 B. Hancock n.o.........................56 P. Dyer lbw. b. R. Tegg.............27 K. Nestor b. C. Mollison ..........46 R. Greaves b. R. Tegg ................8 C. Knox c. C. Bulter b. R. Tegg .................................0 C. McCurdy n.o..........................3 M. Holloway c. C. Bulter b. R. Tegg ...............................0 S. Jenkins n.o. ............................0 Extras .......................................12 Total ....................................7/156 Bowling: C. Mollison 0/33, J. Jackson 1/11, J. Courtenay 0/7, T. Thornby 0/16, R. Tegg 1/12, E. Everingham 0/13. 2nd Innings Inverloch B. Phillips c. C. McCurdy b. R. Greave ............................4 L. Cummins c. C. McCurdy b. R. Greaves ...........................6 T. Thornby c. P. Dyer b. A. Jenkins ..........................21 R. Tegg b. A. Jenkins .................0 J. Muir lbw. b. A. Jenkins...........5 C. Bulter b. D. Brain ................15 E. Everingham c. A. Jenkins b. D. Brain ...............................4 C. Mollison n.o. .........................5 A. Brayley c&b. D. Brain ..........0 N. Goodall c. D. Brain b. K. Nestor .............................8 Extras .......................................10 Total .........................................78 Bowling: R. Greaves 2/21, A. Jenkins 3/26, S. Jenkins 0/4, B. Hancock 0/11, D. Brain 3/7, K. Nestor 1/4. 1st Innings Poowong/Loch M. Adderley n.o. ........................2 A. Jenkins n.o.............................5 Total ........................................0/7 Bowling: L. Cummins 0/7. PHILLIP ISLAND v WONTHAGGI MINERS 1st Innings Phillip Island Total .................................... 7/346 Bowling: P. Cornelis 2/32, P. Hammer 0/50, A. Schreck 0/33, M. Madigan 1/64, P. Loos 0/96, L. Jones 2/53. 1st Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Wright c. R. Cleeland b. S. Boyack ............................2

J. Burke c. C. Viljoen b. A. Dimech ...........................0 P. Hammer n.o. .........................28 L. Jones r.o. R. Cleeland ............4 W. Howson c. A. Dimech b. S. Boyack ............................6 B. Andrighetto b. A. Dimech .....0 P. Cornelis lbw. b. S. Boyack .....3 A. Schreck c. A. Dimech b. S. Kirton ..............................2 P. Loos b. S. Kirton ..................19 M. Madigan c. C. Wilson b. R. Cleeland..........................0 Extras .........................................1 Total .........................................65 Bowling: S. Boyack 3/17, A. Dimech 2/17, S. Kirton 2/18, M. Price 0/10, R. Cleeland 1/4. 2nd Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Wright b. C. Wilson ..............2 J. Burke r.o. R. Cleeland ..........10 P. Hammer b. K. Murphy .........12 L Jones c. R. Cleeland b. C. Wilson.............................3 D. Atherton c. C. Viljoen b. S. Boyack ............................6 W. Howson c&b. C. Wilson .......1 B. Andrighetto c. M. Wilson b. S. Boyack ............................1 A. Schreck b. S. Boyack ..........10 M. Madigan n.o. .........................2 P. Loos c. S. Kirton b. A. Dimech .........................20 P. Cornelis c. C. Wilson b. S. Kirton ............................10 Extras .......................................10 Total .........................................87 Bowling: C. Wilson 3/8, R. Cleeland 0/18, K. Murphy 1/6, T. Hornsby 0/6, C. Viljoen 0/1, S. Boyack 3/17, S. Kirton 1/17, A.

Dimech 1/18. TOWN v MDU 1st Innings MDU Total ....................................... 128 1st Innings Town R. Templeton c. J. Sinclair b. M. Le Page ........................ 11 J. Schelling b. M .Le Page .........4 L. Bowman c. C. Le Page b. S. Arnup ............................61 M. Smith lbw. b. M. Dower .....13 A. Hickey c. M. Le Page b. S. Browne............................2 M. Davies c. S. Arnup b. S. Browne............................0 C. Bruce c. C. Hoober b. T. Harris ............................38 N. Johnston b. S. Browne...........3 M. O’Malley n.o. .....................38 S. Ellicott c. M. Dower b T. Harris .............................14 M. Warren c&b. M. Dower ......26 Extras .........................................9 Total .......................................219 Bowling: M. Dower 2/45, T. Harris 2/24, M. Le Page 2/16, S. Arnup 1/44, C. Hoober 0/20, S. Browne 3/45, C. Le Page 0/19. 2nd Innings MDU J. Sinclair b. N .Johnston ...........5 B. Spokes c. M. O’Malley b. L. Bowman........................12 A. Baillie c. R. Templeton b. N. Johnston .........................7 M. Dower n.o. ............................7 T. Harris n.o. ..............................5 Extras .........................................1 Total ......................................3/37 Bowling: N. Johnston 2/16, M. Davies 0/3, A. Hickey 0/4, L. Bowman 1/9, S. Ellicott 0/4, M.

Smith 0/0. FISH CREEK/TARWIN v KOONWARRA RSL 1st Innings Fish Creek/Tarwin Total .........................................79 1st Innings Koonwarra RSL B. Moscript lbw. b. J. Danckert 15 C. Wise c. J. Danckert b. B. Anderson.........................7 S. Moore c. M. Lynch b. S. Rabbitt...........................12 L. Sperling c. D. Rubenis b. B. Anderson.......................34 G. Sperling c. M. Lynch b. S. Rabbitt.............................8 S. Sperling c. J. Law b. J. Danckert ........................10 B. Anderson c. B. Anderson b. B. J. Spokes .......................12 J. Moore lbw. b. S. Rabbitt.........5 B. Davison lbw. b. N. Wilkins ...5 J. Kennedy lbw. b. N. Wilkins .16 J. Peters n.o. ...............................7 Extras .......................................18 Total .......................................149 Bowling: S. Rabbitt 3/29, N. Wilkins 2/16, J. Danckert 2/31, B. Anderson 2/27, J. Spokes 1/17, D. Rubenis 0/11, J. Shaw 0/10. 2nd Innings Fish Creek/Tarwin M. Lynch n.o. ............................7 J. Danckert lbw. b. J. Kennedy. 11 J. Law b. J. Kennedy ..................2 J. Shaw lbw. b. J. Kennedy ........0 G. Watkins n.o. ...........................6 Extras .........................................9 Total ......................................3/35 Bowling: J. Peters 0/16, B. Davison 0/1, J. Kennedy 3/10, C. Wise 0/1, B. Moscript 0/0, S. Sperling 0/1.

LDCA cricket ladders A Grade Division 1 Won Workmens .......... 92.25 OMK............................ 89.56 Imperials ..................... 85.80 Inverloch ..................... 60.95 Korumburra .................. 60.75 Won Miners .................. 60.51 Nerrena ........................ 48.62 Glen Alvie .................... 32.90 A Grade Division 2 Phillip Island............. 132.94 Koonwarra RSL ......... 98.54 Poowong/Loch ............ 93.15 Fish Creek/Tarwin ..... 74.11 Town ............................ 72.92 MDU ............................ 47.89 Won Miners .................. 35.85 Inverloch ...................... 18.22 B Grade Foster........................... 88.94 Phillip Island............... 87.19 Nerrena ....................... 81.87 Glen Alvie.................... 76.08 Won Workmens ............ 57.75 Imperials ...................... 53.78 OMK ............................ 52.13 Korumburra .................. 25.64

C Grade OMK............................ 90.63 Town ............................ 89.31 Koonwarra RSL ......... 85.28 Poowong/Loch ............ 64.86 MDU ............................ 63.11 Won Workmens ............ 52.46 Won Miners .................. 39.72 Fish Creek/Tarwin ........ 38.66 D Grade Town .......................... 100.07 Nerrena ....................... 77.84 Inverloch ..................... 77.30 Phillip Island............... 75.56 Korumburra ............... 60.97 Koonwarra RSL ......... 48.23 Imperials ..................... 38.19 Glen Alvie.................... 22.36 E Grade Phillip Island............... 90.95 Foster........................... 81.02 Poowong/Loch ............ 75.60 Won Miners ................ 68.81 Won Workmens ............ 54.49 OMK ............................ 46.47 MDU ............................ 34.96 Town ............................ 31.09

Under 16 East Imperials ..................... 63.65 Korumburra ............... 61.20 Town ............................ 41.70 Koonwarra RSL ......... 27.36 Foster............................ 25.81 Won Workmens ............ 16.19 MDU ............................ 15.09 Phillip Island ................ 14.98 Fish Creek/Tarwin ........ 11.21 Inverloch ....................... 1..72 OMK .............................. 0.00 Won Miners .................... 0.00 Glen Alvie ...................... 0.00 Poowong/Loch ............... 0.00 Under 16 West Phillip Island............... 57.08 Won Miners ................ 54.51 OMK............................ 37.71 Won Workmens Gold 31.48 Poowong/Loch ............. 22.96 Glen Alvie .................... 16.99 Inverloch ........................ 3.77 Won Workmens Blue ..... 0.00

Fine technique: Town bowler Chris Eldred kept the Phillip Island batsmen on their toes, including young Brodie Johnston, just 13.

Leongatha District Cricket Association Umpire Appointments Evans Petroleum Round 8 - December 12 Home team Grade A1 Nerrena Won Miners Glen Alvie OMK Grade A2 Inverloch Koonwarra RSL MDU Poowong/Loch Grade B Imperials Korumburra Won W’mens Foster Grade C MDU Won Miners Fish Crk/Tarwin OMK Grade D Imperials Inverloch Town Glen Alvie Grade E Foster Phillip Island Won Miners Town

Away Team v Korumburra v Imperials v Won W’mens v Inverloch

Ground Umpire Nerr WFG W Turf OMK

Graham Laird Alan Jordan B. Thomas Clive Salmon/ Luke Sullivan

v Phillip Island I Turf v Town (11am) LT v Fish Crk/Tarwin Dum v Won Miners Loch

Alan Roberts Les White M. Heenan Ken Lester

v Phillip Island v Nerrena v Glen Alvie v OMK

Hank Boltong B. McDonald R. Poole John Lea

EC Kor MR FSG

v Koonwarra RSL Meen v Poowong/Loch Tar v Won W’mens FCT v Town KSC

S. Lanyon Herb Roberts D. Sinclair Ian Thomas

v Nerrena v Korumburra v K’warra RSL (5pm) v Phillip Island

LV Inv

Kevin Smith Bob Allan

LT GA

Geoff Wyatt M. Wishart

v OMK v Won W’mens v Poowong/Loch v MDU

FSG Cowes Dal WC2

Rob Grylls TBA TBA John Williams

PAGE 62 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Helping out: yardsmen at the Meeniyan Dumbalk United Football/Netball Club campdraft. Photo courtesy Peter Marshman.

Action stations: Gail Baker (Dumbalk) competes at the campdraft. Photo courtesy Peter Marshman.

MDU’s first draft a success MDU Football/Netball Club took on the challenge to throw their boots and skirts away, and try their hand at running a campdraft for all the enthusiastic horsey people in the area, as a rundraiser for their club on the weekend of November 28 and 29. The weekend started off with a very steamy Friday, with trucks, ﬂoats, gooseneck and trailers all rolling up in the afternoon. A barbecue was held for all who had turned up in the evening. Drafting was to commence by 6.30 on Saturday morning to get the day’s program through by a reasonable hour. First up was the maiden draft, the cattle were kindly donated by Cameron Delbridge and family. They were a lovely mob of black cattle that gave each competitor a run for their money. They were fairly quick cattle, and after three hours of hard riding the eventual winner was Ken Boulton on his young mare Bianca, with his daughter Tammy Goff coming a close second, Peter Boulton third, and

one of our local drafters Wayne Price came a very creditable ﬁfth. Jenny Neave from Traralgon was given the job to judge the Nails Cook Memorial Draft which is a novice event. There were over 175 individual horses in this event (a horse is only allowed to compete once in each event). It took nearly four hours before the eventual winner, Geoff McInnes from Wonthaggi on his horse Tactic, took the blue ribbon away from a very close second, Darren Bowman on his father’s horse Tassie. Locals Neil Park, Emily Baker and Robert Bell placed equal sixth in this event, which was a credit to the eventual placegetters, as the cattle were quite tough. Next for the day was the open draft. There were 83 horses nominated for this event that took another three hours to come to a close for the day. Ken Boulton again was able to take out the blue ribbon on his very consistent horse, Settler, after a run off with Darren Towns on Joe Cool. With the horses put away, the competitors were ready to relax, the football/netball club put on a lovely meal for everyone to enjoy, lots of talk about the day’s competition was had around the ﬁre. People went to bed that night listening

to the rain coming steadily down all night, to wake up to a well watered arena. It was judged fit to ride on, and so the day’s events started by 7.30. The Sunday novice event allowed each competitor to nominate one horse each, and had a total of 85 rider/horse combinations. Darren Towns had the job to judge this event. Bernie Seigle on his horse Rex won the blue ribbon, with Ken Rundell coming second. Local competitors, Gail Baker and young Ethan Parks, made the finals, but the cattle proved too tough and were unable to get into the minor placings. Kids aged between eight and 13 were up next to show judge Karen Penny what they were capable of doing. Eventual winner was Charlie Hengstberger on the family horse Moonshine, with Bailey Parks coming a very close second, and Catheryn Hengstberger also placed fifth in this event. Next was the older kids, 13 - 17 years, judged by David White. Thomas Ford had a run off with Evan Hiscock to take the eventual winner’s blue ribbon, and Ethan Park was able to place third in this event. The last event for the weekend was the open, judged by Michael Hiscock (winner of the Warwick Gold Cup 2007).

A very excited Eric Joosten riding Quiz won very easily from Ken Boulton on Diamond Tina, Alison Boulton on her new horse Danny came third, and Neil Park was very happy to take the fourth ribbon. The weekend was now complete. The trucks rolled out, everyone from the hardworking yards men to the cattle carters. The ladies and men who did all the cooking and supplied food for the weekend need to be commended on a job well done. A big thank you to all the cattle donors (C. Delbridge and family, A. Jans and family, G. and S. Dyke, A. Harris, J. and S. Heppel, R. & S. Irvin, and G. Anthony). If it wasn’t for the generosity of these people this event would not have happened. The next campdraft to be held at the Dumbalk grounds will be run by the Tarwin Valley Campdraft Club on the weekend of February 26, 27 and 28, 2010. We hope to see everyone there. Results Maiden: 1st Ken Boulton, Bianca; 2nd Tammy Goff, Mojo; 3rd Peter Boulton, Maggie; 4th Michael Hiscock, Horizon; 5th Wayne Price, Hudgins; 6th Corry Van Breguel, Digger. Saturday open: 1st Ken Boulton, Settler; 2nd Darren Towns, Joe Cool; 3rd Vicky

Hiscock, Steph; equal 4th Bart Dowling, Sadie; G. McKnight, Spinning Light; 6th Ken Boulton, Intuition. Saturday novice: 1st Geoff McInnes, Tactic; 2nd Darren Bowman, Tassie; 3rd Chris Davis, Ladoux; 4th Michael Kelly, Heartbreaker; 5th Michael Boulton, Maggie; equal 6th E. Baker, N. Park, R. Bell. Sunday novice: 1st Bernie Seigle, Rex; equal 2nd Ken Boulton, Bianca; Peter Boulton, Maggie; Ken Rundell, Nakita; equal 5th John Angus, Clover; Greg McKay, Rosanna. Sunday open: 1st Eric Joosten, Quizz; 2nd K. Boulton, Diamonde Tina; 3rd Alison Boulton, Danny; 4th Neil Park, Mountain Man; 5th Darren Towns, Embers; 6th Buck Buchanan, Buko. 8-13 yrs: 1st C. Hengstberger, Moonshine; 2nd Bailey Parks, Missey; equal 3rd Bonnie Hiscock, Saintly; Bonnie Hiscock, Patience; equal 4th Georgia Goff, Gadget; C. Hengstberger, Ruby; Bailey Parks, Akeeba. 13-17 yrs: 1st Thomas Ford, Dancer; 2nd Evan Hiscock, Mars Bar; 3rd Ethan Park, Cool Flame; 4th Evan Hiscock, Ross; 5th Thomas Ford, Ensay; 6th Lauren Ryder, Rookie.

Read all about it HERRALD stamped its authority on the Leongatha Primary School junior athletics carnival last week, with a solid win at the Velodrome

Oval. Captains Tim Boler and Amber Turner accepted the award on behalf of their house. Strzelecki was second in the

event, with Johnston third and Hyland fourth. The day was enjoyed by all with good sportsmanship shown all around.

Girl power: Kasey, Kelly and Zali did their bit for Hyland.

South Gippsland Field and Game Monthly Shoot HAMS and chickens were the prizes on offer for winners at the monthly field and game shoot held at Hallston on Sunday. Eighty five competitors took part in a 65 target novelty shoot, and the first and second prizes of hams and a chicken for third were eagerly sought after as fare for the Christmas table. AA Grade winners: G. Couper. 50/60, W. Lieshout. 49/60, S. Busana. 47/60. A Grade: D. Hobson. 50/60, R. Evans. 47/60, J. Powell. 42/60. B Grade: S. White. 46/60, D.Morgan. 43/60, R.Clark. 39/60. C Grade: S.Viney. 42/60, D.Johnson.

38/60, O.Flahavin. 37/60. Juniors: M.Prentice. 41/60, R.Shaw. 43/60, M. Bowyer. 33/60. Vets: G.Hart. 40/60, J. Tait. 40/60, J. Robbins. 39/60. Ladies: M.Hogan. 36/60, P. Humphries. 34/60, B. Hart. 30/60. On behalf of the South Gippsland Field and Game we wish all shooters a safe and prosperous Christmas and New Year and we look forward to great year in 2010. If you have any questions about our club or simulated ﬁeld shooting or would like to try it, call Paul Knox 0428 592248.

Hard yards: Olivia O'Shanassy put in a supreme effort.

Meghan Bate: the Leongatha PS speedster showed ﬁne form in the relay.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009 - PAGE 63

Christmas cheer at Stony races CHRISTMAS revellers were out in force at Saturday’s Stony Creek race meeting, with marquees booked out with work break-ups and preChristmas get-togethers. Despite the early drizzle and cooler conditions, races got underway as scheduled after being a total washout in 2008. The next races at Stony Creek is the big holiday event on Monday, December 28 which is the family carnival meeting. The following Saturday, January 2 is the tasting, grazing and racing meeting. Pascoe breaks ice Moe trainer, John Pascoe, scored his first win as a trainer when Yasey San won the fillies and mares’ mile maiden at Stony Creek on Saturday. The underrated galloper came from well back in the field to record an impressive victory and now she has broken through, her trainer believes she can go right on with the job. Pascoe, who was a jockey in the 1960s before having a short stint as a trainer, has only returned to the industry in recent years. “It has only been bad luck that has prevented her from breaking through before now,” he said after the win. “She is so clean winded, I can’t see distance being any problem for her and hopefully now she will go right on with the job. I really think she has the ability to win some black type races,” he said.

“I am not sure where we will take her next, but there is a mid week race at Sandown over 1800 metres that I will look at.” Another good ‘un A few weeks back, Mick Price produced Marconi for a very impressive first up maiden win at Stony Creek and he went on to win by five lengths in town on Saturday. Those at Stony Creek saw another impressive performance by a youngster on the weekend. Although he may not be in the class of Marconi, the Colin Little prepared Forty Two Below, also looks destined for an exciting future. Despite being slow away in the class one over1100 metres, he gave rivals a galloping lesson in cruising to victory at just his third start. “At his first two runs he was just too keen, so we tipped him out to give him a bit of time,” said Little. “Being slow away today was probably not the end of the world for him and will probably assist in his overall education.” Forty Two Below is definitely one for the black books! Local quinella There was a local quinella of sorts in the final event of the day when the Mick Kent trained Surrey Downs led all the way to defeat Earle Fischer’s High Tszyu. The four-year-old winner is owned by Philip and Anne Wooldridge, who own a farm at Tarwin. The couple also had a winner at the course last year in Sealer’s Cove.

“The horses spell at our farm, so there is a strong local connection with the area,” said Anne. Philip added, “It has been a long held ambition of ours to win the Stony Creek Cup and this bloke is shaping as though he will be the ideal horse, and 2000 metres will be right up his alley.” “I haven’t told the trainer yet, but I would hope that in time he could deliver us that elusive race.” Runner-up High Tszyu loomed as the winner a furlong from him but just died on his run. “He will still have derived some beneﬁt from that and hopefully he can go one better next start,” said Fischer. Latrobe Valley cup It’s Cups time in Gippsland this weekend, with the Wights Motor World Latrobe Valley Cup on Sunday with Bairnsdale galloper, El Pretender, aiming for back to back titles. After what has been a disappointing preparation to date, he has been freshened up with some beach work and trainer, Brenda McPhan, is hoping for a “new horse” come Sunday. The main supporting race is the showcase 0-72 over 1430 metres and Ian Hutchins has Liberty Edition entered. He was a strong winner last start and his racing style (on the pace) will be well suited to the tight Traralgon circuit. Should be a great day as usual!

Nice win: Mark O’Flaherty rides Chief Red Cloud to victory in race four.

Learning tricks: Hayley Hunter of Nyora, Telese Lane of Poowong and Reona Jarrett of Korumburra keep an eye on proceedings.

Well won: Mark O’Flaherty brings race four winner Chief Red Cloud to the stalls.

Festive bunch: Dahlsens Wonthaggi invited trade clients to the Stony Creek Racing Club’s Christmas meet. Joining trade manager Shane Sartori, account manager Rob Quaife and general hand Glen Zappa, were Kane Worthy, Trevor Hinch, Dale Sartori, Ray O’Flaherty, Kent Anderson and Brendan Nicholas.

Social occasion: donning outﬁts made from recycled clothing were mates Kath McKay, Claire Lovegrove, Jo Tumiatopoulosos, Jess Gazoo, Bree Lacey, Hayley Carroll, Nicole Katsis, Allie Richardson, Lauren Hudson, Tara Lambert and Kylie Washington.

Committee finds members By Chris Brown

AFTER years of struggle the Stony Creek Racing Club committee has become a popular group to participate on. Stony Creek Racing Club president Paul Boag said there were currently 14 people on the committee with three people to be interviewed for the final position. “For years you don’t have anyone knock on the door then you have three people ring up in the last fortnight,” he said. “I just have to work through them to find the best person to fill our needs. “I suppose…people are keen to help meet the challenges the industry puts to us going forward.” Previously the committee was down to 13 members with “two or three that never came along,” Mr Boag said. Two new members joined the committee following the annual general meeting in October. They are Paul O’Sullivan from Lower Tarwin and John Edwards of Toora. Mr O’Sullivan owned the horse, Surrey Downs, which won the last race at Stony

Creek on Saturday. He was on the committee a couple of years ago before a busy schedule of farming and children’s activities intervened. Mr Boag said Mr O’Sullivan was a great asset to the club. “We’re developing a great team with support and cohesion amongst all the group,” Mr Boag said. “The few old hands that are there are a tremendous support to me.” The committee gathers about once a month and makes sure the club is proﬁtable and follows horse racing rules. Mr Boag said it also introduces new ideas to develop the racing club. “The Ladies Day event initiative has been very positive over the last four or ﬁve years and certainly increased the numbers,” he said. “We’re trying to introduce new things to encourage people to support the racing club and also while they’re there to enjoy the day, because really that’s what it’s all about; a great day out.” Other major projects initiated by the committee include the shade sails and underground drainage of the track.

PAGE 64 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Making waves

Champion: Newhaven College student Nikki Van Dijk, 15, of Smiths Beach helped secure the prestigious Top Australian Schools MR Shield for her school during the Arnette Australian Junior Surfing Titles on the Sunshine Coast at Coolum last week. Photo courtesy Steve Robertson, Surﬁng Australia.

Newhaven surfers win Aussie title

NEWHAVEN College claimed the Australian top schools surfing champions trophy following outstanding performances by students Nikki Van Dijk and India Payne in the Arnette Australian Junior Titles on the Sunshine Coast last week. Young surﬁng dynamos Nikki, 15, and India, 15, won the blue ribbon Under 19 Australian Schools MR (Mark Richards) Shield and placed second in the Under 16 Australian All Stars event. Nikki now has her sights set on the World Junior under 18 Championships

in January following her success, having placed an extremely close second in the final of the Under 18 Arnette Australian Junior Titles. She now goes into an elite Surfing Australia High Performance Centre training camp and will most likely be selected into TravelSim Team Australia and go to the World Junior Under 18 Championships to be run in New Zealand next year. Phillip Island’s Newhaven College promotes surfing as part of the school curriculum and has run a very popular program for some 10 years, with Year 7 students competing in the college house

competition, the annual Gippsland Independent Schools Surﬁng Competition, State and Australian titles. The college enjoyed great success, having taken out the prestigious Australian top schools MR Shield in 2002 and runners-up in 2006. College principal Michael Brewin said he is very proud of the students’ achievements. “It is a great thrill for the college and credit goes to the hard work and dedication by our students Nikki and India, their parents and college surf coach Andy Neal,” Mr Brewin said. The Australian Junior Surﬁng Ti-

tles ran from Saturday, November 28 through to Saturday, December 5 at Coolum Beach, Queensland. A successful week of dynamic surfing from Australia’s emerging stars of the surf saw 12 Arnette Australian Junior Surﬁng Titles awarded. Across individual Under 18 and Under 16 boys and girls through to national schools titles, all winners have joined an awesome history of Australian surfers that includes surfers like Tom Carroll, Damien Hardman, Stephanie Gilmore, Joel Parkinson, Mick Fanning, Cheyne Horan, Wayne Lynch and many many more legends of Aus-

Dell delights in hat trick OMK cricketer Peter Dell claimed a hat trick on Saturday as the Diggers rolled Wonthaggi Miners to challenge for top spot in LDCA’s division one. After being on the hat trick ball on many other occasions, Dell ﬁnally broke through for his personal milestone. In just three overs Dell succeeded in turning the game on its head. After claiming the dangerous Matt Donohue caught and bowled for 88 in the second over of his spell; Dell then claimed the hat trick in the third and ﬁnal over

of the innings. The first to go was Jake Trevisi for 4, then Ben Zanella for a duck and finally Ryan Birkett, also for 0. Trevisi was out LBW while the other two were bowled. When the hat trick ball came, OMK resisted the temptation to ring the batsman with fielders. “They were going for quick runs so we kept the field pretty defensive,” Dell told The Star. Asked whether this was his biggest achievement in cricket, Dell said he will treasure more the number of premierships he has been involved in, most recently the 2006/2007 A2

premiership for OMK. Dell has been with OMK for 16 years now and bowls very accurate medium pacers. Not content with his bowling achievement, Dell was there at the end with 12 not out with the bat to bring home victory for the Diggers who are really challenging for the premiership. Asked for his thoughts on the hat trick, Dell said “ I could always get another one!”

Triple treat: Peter Dell took a hat trick for OMK in A Grade against Miners on Saturday.

tralian surfing who have won Arnette Australian Junior Surfing Titles. Finalists across these individual divisions will also enter the Surfing Australia High Performance Centre for elite training and some will then be added to the team for New Zealand which will be trying to defend Australia as the champion Junior Team. Next year’s Arnette Australian Junior Surfing Titles will be held in early December at Phillip Island, possibly the most ideal wave location in Australia during summer, with a huge variety of high quality beach and reef breaks – an event that will be much anticipated.