The Great Southern Star - January 5, 2016

Showtime at Wonthaggi this Saturday -- Page Page 17 17

www.thestar.com.au TUESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2016 - $1.40

Hot Hot summer summer fun fun

Family backs Ella

Pages 11-16

Page 4

Tassie tiger sighting Page 3

Splash of colour

VENUS Bay artists, clockwise, from front, Jenna Lawrie, Riley Ladiges and Grace Lawrie admire their street art at the Venus Bay Community Centre’s skate ramp last Wednesday. Read the full story on page 6.

Treacherous

Drowning prompts call for beach warnings

By Lucy Johnson

Year’s Day.

THE safety of Venus Bay’s beaches has been thrown into the spotlight after a woman drowned at beach five on New

Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving Club and Parks Victoria have joined with Life Saving Victoria to address warning signs at the beaches and educate the public about the risks of swim-

ming in the dangerous surf.

Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving Club president Craig Watson said Venus Bay was known as one of the most dangerous beaches in Victoria.

“At this time of year the population swells with both tourists and hol-

idaymakers. We have had a number of rescues this season and a lot of the incidents have boiled down to a lack of education,” he said.

“We are taking a number of steps to improve the level of safety for people attending the beach this year.

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“This season we are adding a community liaison officer to our club, who will be responsible for improving our relationship with the community and beach visitors.

Continued on page 5.

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PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Check out: from left, Justin O’Shea from Ashburton inspects the new IGA store in Tarwin Lower with cashier Matt Van Dillen on Saturday. Mr Van Dillen said the new store was fantastic to work in.

FAMILY CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL

Busy start at Tarwin Lower IGA

at Inverloch Recreation Reserve Open every night from 6-10pm Boxing Day to January 24 Family packs from $20 for 20 tokens Entry free - Rides from $4

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Don’t miss the fun!

Cashiers: from left, Tom O’Loughlin and Matt Van Dillen are enjoying working at the new IGA store in Tarwin Lower. They are pictured at the store on Saturday.

Sessions from Thursday January 7 To Wednesday January 13

Alvin & the Chipmunks Road Trip (PG) NFT Thurs Fri Sat Sun 11am & Mon Tues Wed 1pm

The Good Dinosaur (PG) NFT Thurs Fri Sat Sun 1pm & Mon Tues Wed 11am

Coal Creek appeals this summer

Star Wars The Force Awakens (M) NFT Thurs Fri Sat Sun 7.30pm Mon Tues Wed 5pm Ends Wed.

Nowhere Boys book of Shadows (PG) (M)

Thurs Fri Sat Sun 5pm Mon Tues Wed 7.30pm

With the school holidays in full swing, most of the events are for the

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younger age group.

On January 16 the Gippsland Geekfest Kostume Ball is a colourful event and will be very popular.

For the over 18s this is must attend; get a group of friends together and dress up for a chance to be crowned king or queen of the ball.

There is also an interpretive dance competition which has the potential to be as humorous as it is entertaining to watch.

For the littlest visitors to the park on any day of the week, The Pirate’s Treasure Hunt is a great activity for exploring the park’s attractions.

The park becomes an adventure playground and you are guided around by a map drawn by Lizzie Algar who is not only a volunteer in the general store but a professional illustrator.

Ahoy there m’hearties!

We’re off to look for treasure!

Time travellers: from left, Ed Nutley from Mornington, his sister Alice Nutley, mother Jackie Nutley and partner Tayla Holland at Coal Creek, Korumburra, on Saturday.

Mr Nutley’s sister and mother were visiting from Collier Row in Essex, UK, and all were on their first visit to Coal Creek for a day trip. Jackie Nutley said, “There’s a lot here. It is very interesting.”

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FOR the duration of the summer holiday period there is a lot happening at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum at Korumburra.

Accomplices: from left, return visitors Dexter Benham and his father Jeff Benham from Endeavour Hills were having a good time doing the Pirate Treasure Hunt at Coal Creek, Korumburra on Saturday afternoon. “I have my first star!” Dexter said.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 3

Tassie tiger spotted FEW people can say they have locked eyes with the Tasmanian tiger, however Venus Bay Caravan Park owner Tony Holgate recently had a rare encounter.

Mr Holgate said he came across the marsupial, believed to be extinct since the 1930s, on his property in December.

“I saw the tiger sitting by five or six kangaroos that were grazing on a powered site around 5.30am,” he said.

“I watched for a minute and tried to get closer but it kept hopping off every time I got closer. It did not run away very fast. It just loped along until it disappeared into the scrub.”

Mr Holgate has since received a number of phone calls in support of his claim.

“A number of people have said I am not crazy and they have seen it too.

People have said they are going to come

and look for it in the area,” he said.

Mr Holgate said he plans to search the area for the animal once the busy tourist season is over.

“I will look again at the end of January. There is not a lot of wildlife around when it is tourist season,” he said.

“It was really cool. The kangaroos were not fazed by its presence at all. I might have to go buy myself my first mobile phone now though. I am kicking myself that I was not able to take a photo of it.”

Mysterious sighting: Tony Holgate on his property in Venus Bay where he said he saw a Tasmanian tiger.

Photo courtesy of Tim Carrafa, Herald Sun. Front page photo courtesy of Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Launceston.

Fireworks fiasco Police and emergency services responded to a number of incidents where fireworks caused fires and injury to both offenders and innocent people in the countdown to 2016.

Wonthaggi Police attended an incident at Inverloch Recreation Reserve where a man in his twenties received treatment for facial burns and eye damage after letting off a firework. The man received treatment at Wonthaggi Hospital before he was admitted to the Austin Hospital for further treatment.

Police responded to a fire at Milton Avenue in Cape Woolamai where partygoers lit illegal fireworks in the backyard of a property.

The fireworks ignited a grass fire and spread into grassland at the airfield, burning approximately 10 square metres.

An 18 year old offender has been charged.

Police also responded to a fire in Ventnor after three men placed fireworks in the road in Seacombe Grove.

The fireworks resulted in a small tree fire that was extinguished by neighbours.

Cowes Police attended an address at Wyndham Avenue at approximately 3am on New Year’s Day. Police witnessed a man lighting illegal fireworks in the front yard.

A group of eight party-

council left the organisation of the event up to the Phillip Island and San Remo Young Professionals is because of its affiliation with former mayor Cr Kimberly Brown, who is a member of the group,” Mr Fullarton said.

“It was all handled unprofessionally. They left thousands of visitors waiting for a fireworks display which did not happen.”

Bass Coast Shire Council economic development and tourism manager Peter Francis said council allocated funding to Inverloch and Coronet Bay fireworks to the tune of $5000, however fund-

ing for the Cowes event went towards the carnival and not the organisation of the fireworks display.

“Council issued the permit for the carnival,

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NEW Year’s Eve went off with a big bang in South Gippsland, with residents and visitors across the region arrested for illegal possession and use of fireworks.

goers swarmed police officers in an attempt to help the offender escape arrest. Police used capsicum spray on assailants before seizing a quantity of illegal fireworks.

The offender, a 27 year old Narre Warren man, surrendered at Cowes Police station and was charged for possession and use of illegal fireworks.

Thousands of residents and tourists were disappointed by a lacklustre fireworks display in Cowes on New Year’s Eve. The Thompson Avenue carnival boasted a 5000 strong crowd with families gathering to witness a fireworks display from the Phillip Island and San Remo Young Professionals Group. However following a short burst of small sparks, residents and visitors alike vented their disappointment on social media.

Phillip Island Stand Alone Facebook page received comments from disgruntled audience members who felt the show lacked the pizzazz of fireworks in years past.

Phillip Island Stand Alone chair Stephen Fullarton said the display showed an “appalling lack of organisation” and was “an embarrassment for Victoria’s number one tourist destination”.

Phillip Island and San Remo Young Professionals received a community grant from Bass Coast Shire Council to host an event throughout the afternoon along the Esplanade.

Mr Fullarton criticised council for having a conflict of interest in supporting the local organisation.

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but did not fund or organise the fireworks display,” Mr Francis said.

Inverloch hosted spectacular fireworks that received public acclaim.

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PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

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Thankful: Ella Morgan is thrilled the love and support of her family has her on the way to receive the surgery she needs to hear properly. Donations tins will be available in local businesses to help her family raise funds for surgery in the United States of America.

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Ella is the daughter of former local man Nick Morgan and partner Belinda of Albury, New South Wales, and granddaughter of Joy and Jim Morgan of Leongatha.

Born with a condition called Microtia Atresia, Ella has severe conductive hearing loss in her right ear, mild hearing loss in her left ear and a cosmetically undeveloped right ear.

Ella’s family were fortunate enough to meet American surgeons Dr Joseph Roberson (otologist) and Dr John Reinish (plastic surgeon) at a recent Microtia and Atresia conference.

Together, they are able to perform the world’s only combined Atresia and Microtia surgery.

However, the cost of the surgery combined with post operative care and a recovery period of four to six weeks in the USA will total $110,000.

With members of Ella’s

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Family support: Leongatha based family of Ella Morgan have rallied behind the fundraising campaign towards her surgery in the United States of America. They are Ella’s grandmother Joy Morgan and her nephew Mick Hanily of Stockdale and Leggo Leongatha, and Ella’s cousins Ruby and Charlie Adkins (front).

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LEONGATHA 6 DAY WEATHER FORECAST

TUES JAN 5

13°

25°

Possible shower

WED JAN 6

14°

24°

Possible shower

THUR

JAN 7

13°

21°

Possible shower

FRI JAN 8

11°

21°

Late shower

SAT JAN 9

13°

21°

Clearing shower

loving family located here in Leongatha, local businesses including The Star, Stockdale and Leggo Leongatha and Inverloch, Leongatha Travel and Cruise and the Duck Hutt, Meeniyan, have shown support by displaying donation tins for Ella in their shop fronts.

Ella is happy and excited about her surgery.

“I first noticed my little ear when I was four years old. I started to get a bit upset because it wasn’t like the other one. Mum explained to me that it was my special little ear and that’s how I was born – that I can’t really change it at the moment, but it’s okay because it is what makes me different from everyone else,” she said.

“I think it’s quite amazing that I have something nobody else has in my whole family or in my school, but sometimes I get a little bit sad when I can’t hear very well, and when I go out with Mum always at least one person points or stares at my little ear; sometimes they laugh and it hurts my feelings.

“I catch people looking at me, then I tell Mum, but Mum always says ‘Don’t worry, sweetie, they’re probably just looking at how beautiful you are’. Every time Mum says that, I feel much better.

“Apart from looking different, I have days when I really struggle to hear. I can’t tell where sound is coming from which makes it hard to cross the road, or to hear Mum and Dad from another room.

“At school when it is noisy, and even sometimes if the fan is on too high, or the traffic sounds are too loud, I can’t hear my teachers or my friends. Even though my teachers and friends smile and try to help me out, I feel sometimes my friends get frustrated having to repeat things all the time.”

As well as being able to hear, the surgery will enable Ella to have her ears pierced and wear sunglasses – something she’d always wanted to do.

“I feel so loved by my Mum and Dad, and my family and friends. I am very lucky they have started my fundraiser ‘Ella’s Ear’ to help with the surgery,” Ella said.

If you come across these tins in local businesses, a small contribution can help change a little girl’s life.

You can see all details of Ella’s fundraiser on the website www.ellasear.com.

Donations can also be made directly to: AWCC Ella’s Ear: BSB: 803070, Acc: 100109195 WAW Credit Union CoOperative Ltd.

SUN

JAN 10

12° 30° Mostly sunny

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 5

Venus Bay unites against council

By Stuart Biggins

THE Venus Bay community has voted unanimously to reject South Gippsland Shire Council’s plan to sell public land in the seaside village.

Around 100 residents attended a meeting at the Venus Bay Community Centre on Saturday afternoon to register opposition to council’s sale of public land.

Residents said the public land was integral to the town’s character, charm and amenity, and is a refuge for a wide variety of native flora and fauna including kangaroos, wombats, echidnas and blue tongue lizards.

Resident, Cr Kieran Kennedy said, “The council’s impatience to win will be a loss. I am very confident we will win this.”

He told the meeting the council’s capital works program was out of con-

trol and agreed with a fellow resident who claimed council had always seen Venus Bay as a soft target.

Cr Kennedy said, “Ve-

nus Bay is a pure cash cow for the council.”

He said council’s estimate of the value of the public lands it proposes

to sell was inflated and in reality would realise half of what council said it would.

The council’s plan to

sell $2 million of its assets is “bloody mindedness,” Cr Kennedy said.

Alyson Skinner, the manager of the Venus Bay

collection service. The meeting was told eight out of 10 people have to pay for a service they use only a couple of times a year.

Some holidaymakers are claimed to poach space in neighbours’ bins.

With $150,000 having been spent on the bins, Cr Kennedy said it was unlikely council would reverse the service.

Not our patch: from left, Peter Wolhuter; South Gippsland Shire Councillor Kieran Kennedy; Lorraine Norden, secretary of the Friends of the Venus Bay Peninsula; Helen Messer from Glen Iris and Alyson Skinner, manager of the Venus Bay Community Centre.

Police aim for zero

By Tayla Kershaw

WHILE South Gippsland escaped 2015 with a lower road toll compared to 2014, state-wide more people died on the roads.

After six people were killed on roads in South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires in 2014, four died last year.

However, 256 fatalities state-wide in 2015 increased the Victorian road toll by seven.

With the Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) new slogan “Towards Zero” in mind, Bass Coast Highway Patrol is determined to finish 2016 with no fatalities.

“Locally there were fewer fatalities but we still had people doing the wrong thing and quite a number of serious injuries,” Leading Senior Constable Allan Piening said.

“People need to be more aware and plan their trips

Community Centre said, “The community is trying to say in so many voices, ‘Please don’t do this, please don’t do this’. That is why we are today.”

Residents have been encouraged to submit their objections to council individually.

Strong objection was also expressed at the meeting to the town’s rubbish

TOWARDS

ZERO

properly.”

LS/C Piening said inattention was one of the major causes of accidents, as well as excessive speed.

To combat this behaviour over the ChristmasNew Year period, highway patrol officers and the police from the State Highway Patrol were involved in Operation Road Safety throughout South Gippsland.

Generally police were happy with local behaviour but were forced to keep a close eye on holidaymakers.

“Some people tend to forget their manners when they are on holiday. People need to remember there are others out on the roads and they need to be consider-

ate,” LS/C Piening said.

Police also monitored drivers via random breath testing and drug testing, with four drivers returning positive drug tests.

“We are also catching many people speeding. The speed limit is not a target; drive to the conditions,” LS/C Piening said.

LS/C Piening said summer was the best time to ensure cars were roadworthy.

“We’ve pulled up people for a lot of different offences, including little things like drivers still not making sure their registration or licence is current,” he said.

“It’s a simple thing to check – just get on the VicRoads website or call VicRoads for advice. It’s also

Treacherous Continued from page 1.

“We are also working with Parks Victoria and Life Saving Victoria to improve signage on the beach.”

Police believe the drowning victim, a 52 year old Selby woman, went swimming some time during the early hours of New Year’s Day at beach five.

The precise time and duration of her visit to the beach is not known and police are investigating. Passers-by found the woman face down in the water and dragged her to shore at around 12.30pm on New Year’s Day. The woman was given first aid but could not be resuscitated.

The incident served as a reminder for all beach visitors to take extra caution around the water.

“The surf lifesaving club has no authority to tell people where and when they should not swim. We can only advise it,” Mr

Watson said.

The woman was found at beach five, eight kilometres from the nearest patrolled area at beach one.

“We had next to no involvement in the incident because it was out of our patrol area and not within our hours of beach patrol,” Mr Watson said.

Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving Club patrol beach one from 9am until 5pm on weekends and public holidays.

The number of deaths caused by drowning in Gippsland far outnumbers other regions of Victoria.

In 2004–2014, 57 people died due to drowning in Gippsland. In the same decade, 84 people were hospitalised as a result of non-fatal drowning in Gippsland.

The Star contacted Parks Victoria however they were unable to comment before the coroner’s report.

a good time to check your tyres and get your car serviced.”

Police will also be cracking down on seatbelts and mobile phone use.

“It is the driver’s responsibility to make sure

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everyone in the car is wearing their seatbelts properly, not tucked under their arms.

Also, remember to check children’s car seats to check they are buckled in correctly as well,” LS/C Piening said.

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PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Music in them hills MUSIC fans transformed the McLaren family farm at Krowera into a spirited music festival last week, as the annual NYE on the Hill concert was staged from December 30 to January1.

The event featured a performance by Leongatha teenager Janie Gordon, who has performed in South Gippsland and Melbourne, as well as Foster based Rockenspiele.

The trio played girl garage/bubble punk, and have previously played with Melbourne bands, The Smith Street Band, The Bennies and Clowns.

The local bands were joined by such performers as Safia, Harts, Timberwolf and Boo Seeka.

Happy couple: newly engaged couple Jayson Barwick and Carly Pedlar after their mid-air proposal aboard Phillip Island Helicopters.

Tractor Street art stands out work wins a heart Party time: music fans at the NYE on the Hill concert at Krowera last week. Photo: Facebook.

THE youngsters who live and holiday at Venus Bay have made their mark on the town’s skate park yet again.

Children and teenagers gathered at the ramp behind the Venus Bay Community Centre last Wednesday and Thursday to create street art for the fifth year.

They were guided in the skill of spray-painting by Ve-

nus Bay artist Ben Everett.

Community centre manager Alyson Skinner said, “Every year we paint over it and start again. Some people have been doing it every year during the holiday program.

“It’s a great opportunity

Talented bunch: admiring their street art at the Venus Bay Community Centre’s skate ramp were young artists, from left, Caiden Audsey, and Noah and Josh Mulder, with centre manager Alyson Skinner and artist Ben Everett of Venus Bay.

Driest year on record

By Lucy Johnson SOUTH Gippsland received record low rainfall last year, with residents preparing to cut back on water usage and restrictions to come.

Lindsay Fromhold recorded 640.33mm at Meeniyan over the entire year, with annual rainfall plummeting below average during September and October.

“December capped off a dry year. I recorded less than an inch of rain for the month, but in the past three years we have had over three inches in December,” he said.

“It is the lowest annual rainfall Meeniyan has received in the 33 years I have been recording. Last year we received 878mm.”

Fish Creek similarly experienced the driest year on record, with Neville Buckland recording 700.5mm for the entire year.

“The next driest year on record dates back to 1967 when we received 720mm,” he said.

“It was the driest we have ever had and it is still continuing to stay dry down here.”

Meeniyan and Fish Creek are not the only areas missing out on rain, with water storage facilities across South Gippsland

falling.

South Gippsland Water managing director Philippe du Plessis said Fish Creek’s Battery Creek and Korumburra’s Coalition Creek water supply systems were nearing stage one water restrictions.

“A supplementary water supply from the Tarwin River was activated for the Coalition Creek Water Supply System at the beginning of December 2015. Up until Friday, January 1, some 40mm has been pumped to assist in meeting demand for Korumburra,” Mr du Plessis said.

Battery Creek is at 72 per cent capacity while Coalition Creek has dropped to 68 per cent.

Ruby Creek, responsible for providing water to Leongatha and surrounds, has also dropped to 70 per cent capacity while Little Bass, provider for Poowong, Loch and Nyora, is currently sitting at 73 per cent.

“Stage one restrictions for both Fish Creek and Korumburra are now imminent and likely to be activated in the coming weeks. Restrictions are to encourage customers to be alert with respect to water use and to encourage all customers to adopt water efficient practices to conserve water supplies,” Mr du Plessis said.

to get experience in street art without doing any tagging.”

The community centre also relaunched the Spokes bicycle sharing program.

Bruce Jarrett of Tarwin Lower has restored bikes and now there are 100 bicycles available for hire or to buy, suitable for children and adults.

The centre will host a holiday program for the first three weeks of January with various activities and is involved in an open night at the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club this Saturday, January 9, for people to find out more about the surf club and Country Fire Authority.

Island attraction: actor Hugh Jackman experienced the new underground viewing area at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade last Tuesday, December 29. Photo: Facebook.

Actor steals limelight MOVIE star Hugh Jackman stole the show from the penguins at Phillip Island last Tuesday, December 29.

The Australian actor took his family to see the Penguin parade at Phillip Island Nature Parks, after enjoying tea at Asian Kitchen restaurant at Cowes.

Mr Jackman, his actress wife Deborra-Lee Furness and their children Oscar and Ava toured the new underground viewing area at the parade, according to nature parks spokesperson Nicoleta Giurgiu.

“It was a great night.

They had an awesome time,” she said.

The nature parks were aware of the famous family’s attendance and had security on standby in case they were mobbed by fans, but people appreciated the Jackman family’s privacy, Ms Giurgiu said.

“Some people recognised him and had their pictures taken with him,” she said.

Mr Jackman posted a selfie of himself with a penguin on Facebook, saying, “I know, I know - my selfie skills are terrible. But just look at this baby penguin and everything will appear better!”

By Brad Lester IF ANYONE knows how to drive a tractor straight, it’s dairy farmer Jayson Barwick, especially when the stakes are high.

He slashed a marriage proposal to his girlfriend Carly Pedlar in the paddock of the couple’s Catani dairy farm.

He then booked a helicopter ride from Phillip Island to surprise her with a mid-air request for her hand in marriage on Christmas Eve. Mr Barwick used his tractor and hay mower to write the words, “Carly, will you marry me?”.

“We did a trip around the island in the helicopter and scooted across to the farm. Carly had no idea.

She thought I was just taking her in a helicopter for a Christmas present,” Mr

Barwick said.

“She said, “Wouldn’t it be funny if we flew over the farm. She looked at the paddock and started crying. She said ‘Oh, my God’ about five times and then she said ‘yes’.”

While penning words of the heart may make any grown man nervous, surely doing so with a tractor in a 20 acre paddock is even more terrifying?

Not so, according to Mr Barwick.

“I did it in sections and hoped for the best when we went up in the helicopter,” he said.

“It actually came up pretty good because I could not see what it looked like from the ground. I just thought about doing it and it was something different and Carly must have liked it.”

The couple flew with Phillip Island Helicopters.

Artistic effort: Jayson Barwick mowed this marriage proposal to Carly Pedlar in the paddock of the couple’s Catani dairy farm.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 7

Bus

By Brad Lester

MORE bus services have been scheduled to meet burgeoning demand over the summer holidays.

V/Line was criticised by a passenger on social media who claimed V/Line overbooked by 35 passengers on the Inverloch, Phillip Island and Cowes services recently.

But Westernport Roadlines, which has the V/Line contract for Inverloch and Yarram/Leongatha lines, said a bus and driver were always on standby to ensure passengers were not left on the side of the road.

The company’s general manager Lynette Dineen said the claim on social media the bus was overbooked was incorrect, as bookings were not taken.

“Every single time there is an overload on a service, it will be managed and if there were 35 passengers overloaded, a second vehicle would be called to get people to their

Poor pipi harvest rush rings alarm

destination,” she said.

“We have people and a vehicle on standby ready to go 24 hours a day and we have a few extra at the moment.

“Certainly people are not waiting up to two hours for the next timetabled service.”

A bus is called in if many extra passengers need transporting or if there are only a few, a taxi is arranged. Buses are called from Westernport Roadlines’ depots at Leongatha and Kooweerup.

Ms Dineen said additional services were supplied as quickly as possible and required approval from V/Line.

The social media post was made on Christmas Day but The Star was unable to ascertain if the Christmas Day service was the service with 35 extra passengers.

Westernport Roadlines operations manager Marc Turner said one return service was run from Leongatha to Southern Cross on Christmas Day, as per the contract arrangement with V/Line, due to a history of low patronage

on that day.

From Monday to Friday over the Christmas-New Year period and during the school holidays, Westernport Roadlines is providing an extra service to Melbourne, departing Leongatha at 7.45am to follow the first service of the day.

That service caters for the extra passengers typically experienced during this period.

“Most mornings the second bus is at least half to three-quarters full by the time it gets to Kooweerup,” Mr Turner said.

About 90 passengers use the first two services of the morning.

Sixteen return services link Yarram and Leongatha with Melbourne Monday to Friday, and eight return services are provided to Inverloch Monday to Friday, in addition to weekend services.

Ms Dineen said the Inverloch, Yarram and Leongatha lines provide the largest number of services of any lines offered by V/Line in Victoria due to the distances involved.

Rubbish spoils Fishy

By Brad Lester THOUGHTLESS people have been dumping rubbish around Fish Creek, angering the community.

Bins were overflowing with rubbish, annoying residents such as Jade Walsh who told South Gippsland Shire Council via Facebook, “I think we need a few more bins around Fish Creek town at this time of year, because some dirty pigs think it is okay to leave our beautiful town looking like a tip.

“If the bin is full, take the rubbish with you or find an empty bin. Disgusting!”

Council’s local laws coordinator Bruce Gardiner said council had notified its waste team about the overflowing bins to arrange for the bins to be emptied.

“Bins in the shire are periodically, systematically emptied. Just because the bins are full doesn’t create an exemption for people to drop their litter near the bin,” he said.

“Council asks that people take their rubbish away with them in such circumstances.

The penalties for litter range from 40 penalty units to 100 penalty units. A penalty unit

is about $152 at the moment.

Therefore, penalties are between $6000 and $15,000 at court.

“An on the spot fine for small amounts of litter, up to about a boot load, is $305 or two penalty units.”

Another resident Meg Edwards reported informal camping occurring around town.

“Many nights you can find people parked for the night between the community garden (railway building and the Fish Creek-Foster Road) and a few other places,” she wrote on Facebook.

Council has had no reports of illegal camping so far this season Ms Edwards said Shallow Inlet also needs more accessible bins.

“I picked up a fair bit of rubbish around where cars had been parked near the dunes,” she said.

By Brad Lester FEWER pipis are being harvested at Venus Bay this summer, raising concerns about the future of the shellfish popular as a food and bait for fishing.

The Star visited beaches one and two last Wednesday, only to find less people collecting pipis this summer and those people searching for them reporting the shellfish hard to find.

Kenneth Ho of Glen Waverley was among the people hoping for a feed for his family. He believed too many people had been targeting pipis in recent years.

“Ten years ago you could just put your hand down and pipis would come to your hand. It was so easy back in the day,” he said.

“Now you have to dig in and search for them, and if you are lucky you could just get one from the area.

“It’s not probably just pipis. I think crab and fish have been narrowed down to these quantities.”

The Star has been told the lack of pipis had encouraged pipi collectors to venture further along the Venus Bay coast.

Mae Adams of Friends of Venus Bay Peninsula was not surprised by the low harvest.

“In the last few years the harvest has been getting less and less,” she said.

Fellow friends member Heather Shimmen said a size limit was necessary. South Australia has a minimum size limit of 3.5cm and a closed season from June 1 to October 31.

“There is no size limit so people are taking everything.

It’s like killing everything and still expecting them to still be there but they can’t because all the juveniles are going,” she said.

The daily catch limit for pipis in Venus Bay, in the Cape

Hungry man: Kenneth Ho of Glen Waverley said pipis were hard to find at Venus Bay last Wednesday.

Liptrap Coastal Park between Point Smythe and Arch Rock, is two litres of shell per person or half a litre of shucked pipi meat.

Senior fisheries officer Chris Angwin said he did not believe a size limit for pipis was being considered by authorities.

“A stock assessment is currently being conducted and until the finding come back from that I don’t foresee any change to the regulation for the harvesting of pipis,” he said.

The University of Melbourne is now undertaking a study of the pipi population at Venus Bay, following concerns about the possibility of harvesting placing pressure on numbers.

Ms Adams welcomed the study and said more information about pipis was needed.

“We are looking forward to having something with solid information so that we can have better management of the beach and look after the natural values of the beach, and that includes the shellfish, the birds and the marine life,” she said.

Ms Shimmen said pipis were food for migratory birds that visit the peninsula and Anderson Inlet.

“They are all part of the whole cycle,” she said.

The research project will assess the impact of harvesting on the shellfish. Scientists will collect 2000, mark them with external tags, and release them during the peak harvest period.

The release areas will be resurveyed 24 hours later to estimate retention rates.

The new study will cover an area from Point Smythe to Arch Rock.

The project was developed in consultation with the Venus Bay Angling Club, Venus Bay Community Centre, the former Tarwin Lower Venus Bay Association, and Friends of Venus Bay Peninsula.

The project will enable recommendations to be made about potential size limits, rotational closures to allow pipi growth before harvest, and the sustainability of current catch limits.

Dr John Morrongiello from the School of BioSciences at University of Melbourne said fieldwork started in early December and three surveys had been undertaken along 15km of the beach, from Point Smythe to eight kilometres south of beach one.

“On each trip, we sample

pipis at specific points on the beach and count and measure all pipis we collect. We are also measuring the physical characteristics of a site, including beach slope with surveying equipment and sand grain size to explore the role of the local environment on pipi distribution,” he said.

“I am impressed with the ability of pipis to quickly move up and down and along the beach. For example, on one day there will be no pipis at a site and on the next day there will be hundreds. The pipi distribution along the beach is quite patchy and our research aims to work out why.”

Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien, who lobbied for funding for the study, said there was anecdotal evidence the pipi population at Venus Bay fluctuated.

“We are constantly reassured by fisheries the pipis themselves are sustainable and we will see if that is the case when the study by the University of Melbourne is complete,” he said.

Venus Bay is only one of two places in Victoria where pipis are found. The other is at Discovery Bay in western Victoria.

POLICE BRIEFS Camp on fire Ugly sight: bins overflowing with rubbish have created an eyesore at Fish Creek. Photo: Facebook.

Fun ends in hospital A WOMAN suffered a leg injury while water skiing at Cape Woolamai beach on Sunday, December 27.

She was taken to Wonthaggi Hospital in a stable condition.

Paramedics treated 12 people injured in boating, water skiing and jet skiing accidents across Victoria between December 27 and 29.

It’s prompted a warning for people to take care, as they head to the water to beat the heat.

Ambulance Victoria

group manager Steve Fumberger said most of those injured were in mishaps along the Murray River.

“Six of the 12 people injured involved water skiing accidents,” he said.

Mr Fumberger urged people to take precautions.

“If you are out on the water trying to beat the heat over the next few days it’s important to make sure you have safety equipment, including a way of contacting emergency services if something goes wrong,” he said.

“Never mix alcohol with boating or swimming.”

POLICE and CFA attended a fire at the Bindaree School Camp in Poowong yesterday (Monday).

Police attended the scene at 3.25am and found three out buildings engulfed in flames.

A large bonfire was found nearby and is believed to be linked to the fires.

Bass Coast Crime Investigation Unit is investigating the incident and would appreciate any public assistance.

Yard fire AN INVERLOCH resident is facing court for breaching fire ban laws after a campfire in their yard spread and caused damage to the property.

Police and CFA attended the Fern Street residence at 4.30pm on Sunday, January 3 where firefighters extinguished the blaze.

The fire burnt a section of grass and a side fence connected to the neighbouring property.

Thefts across region THIEVES have made off with a

range of stolen goods this summer.

A Cape Woolamai Beach Foreshore visitor was the victim of a theft on Wednesday, December 30 when their Canon EOS100D camera was stolen from an open backpack on the beach.

The camera is valued at an estimated $1000.

Another visitor lost over $600 worth of fishing equipment on Friday, January 1 when thieves stole goods from their moored boat on Silverleaves’ foreshore.

A visitor at Wilsons Promontory had a $700 surfboard taken overnight on New Year’s Eve, while a Tidal River campsite guest was robbed of three bicycles the same evening.

Offender/s stole a blue Valencia, a blue Merida Mau and a black Shogun valued at a total of approximately $2000.

Skate park suspicion TWO sets of Apple earphones were stolen from backpacks at Inverloch skate park on Thursday, December 31.

A witness saw a man in his twenties rummaging through the

bags. The suspect was described as having a beard and wearing blue baggy jeans, a multi coloured shirt and no shoes.

The man was last seen walking along Reilly Street.

Anyone with further information regarding the identity of the man is asked to contact Inverloch Police.

Construction burglary A LEONGATHA construction site was burgled of more than $1000 worth of items over the holidays.

Offenders broke into the Parr Street display house between Friday, December 25 and Wednesday, December 30.

The house was locked at the time however offender/s stole $1200 worth of items.

Burglary and assault A DALYSTON resident was the victim of an aggravated burglary last week.

The woman was asleep at 5.30am on Thursday, December 31 when she was awoken by a male intruder entering her house.

The man assaulted the woman

and threatened her with a knife.

Upon police attendance, the man fled the scene before he surrendered and was arrested approximately 100m from the house.

The man, a 30 year old Leongatha resident, was charged with aggravated burglary and assaults and was remanded in custody to appear in court.

Motorcycles stolen WONTHAGGI Motorcycles was the victim of a burglary last week.

The offender entered the motorcycle showroom at about 3.30am on Wednesday, December 30 after breaking in through a side roller door.

The thief stole five off-road motorcycles from the business and loaded them onto a trailer along with a number of spare parts.

Police arrived at the scene during the offence, causing the thief to take off at a high speed towards Anderson and then in the direction of Melbourne.

Two bikes fell off the trailer near Bass Caltex.

Bass Coast Crime Investigation

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

OPINIONS

Letters to the Editor

Respond please

E D I T O R I A L

Shut dangerous beaches PARKS Victoria and Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club are in discussions to improve warning signs on the treacherous beaches of Venus Bay, following yet another drowning on New Year’s Day. However, ideally surf life savers or at least police would have the authority to shut beaches when conditions are too dangerous for swimmers.

While surf life savers do all they can to educate swimmers about beach conditions and the risks rips pose, the message continues not to be received or understood, or is ignored.

Rips are difficult to spot and while they are typically noted by calm conditions in the surf, rips also run parallel to the beach before turning at right angles to the shore and heading out to sea.

The rips parallel to the beach have been confusing swimmers at Venus Bay’s beach one in recent times, resulting in numerous rescues.

People are always told to swim only between the flags and at patrolled beaches, but still swimmers continue to take a dip at far away beaches.

Last Friday’s drowning occurred at beach five, some eight kilometres from beach one where patrols are typically conducted.

The expertise of surf life savers should allow them to close dangerous beaches to save lives on the coast or at least they should be able to erect signs by the water’s edge, urging people to lay out a towel and relax instead.

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.

SPECIAL MEETING OF COUNCIL Wednesday 13 January, 2016 - 9.00am, Council Chambers, Leongatha.

The business to be transacted: 1. Confidential Item – Matter that Council considers would prejudice Council or any persons (per Section 89(2)(h) Local Government Act 1989) Notice of Rescission number 690 – Council Meeting 16 December, 2015 agenda item F.1 Strategic Review of Landholdings – Appointment of Councillors to Special Committee to Consider, Hear and Determine Submissions.

2016 COUNCIL MEETINGS At its meeting on 16 December, 2015 Council resolved to hold monthly Council Meetings in the Council Chamber, Leongatha, commencing at 2.00pm on the following dates: 24 February, 23 March, 27 April, 25 May, 22 June, 27 July, 24 August (venue: TBA), 28 September, 23 November, 14 December.

WHAT is it with South Gippsland Shire Council?

I note two letters in The Star on December 30, 2015 where ratepayers were seeking an answer from the shire.

Surprise, surprise, now make that three. I have been seeking an answer from shire and ward councillors (by email and mail) regarding a water discharge via council culverts onto our property in Sanders Lane, Korumburra.

I have provided them with photographs in evidence, and guess what: a complete lack of inaction.

Most will not even acknowledge my correspondence, both from council and councillors, although mayor Cr Bob Newton did visit on Saturday.

I am at the stage of approaching the relevant ombudsman to see if I can get an answer as this problem is devaluing and damaging our property.

I have asked for a rates reduction also.

John Touzel, Korumburra.

Much to celebrate THE festive season is over for another year.

It feels like we only celebrated the festive season not long ago, and why is it the older I turn, each year seems to pass more quickly?

I do know the busier I am, the quicker time flies by.

However, the more occupied I am, the more eventful my life is through meeting people in the right place at the right time, or experiences coming forth from left field to challenge, inspire or to fill my life with joy.

Something’s always bubbling under the surface, even if I can’t yet see it. So much diverseness seems to continuously present itself that, after the initial delight (or challenge), I usually place it to the back of my mind as a new experience takes the limelight, and validated events fade into the past.

During my travels this week, I met an inspiring woman who shared with me a brilliant idea!

Every time something wonderful happens to her throughout the year, she documents the experience on a small piece of paper and places it into a jar.

These little notes accumulate throughout the months and on every New Year’s Eve, she tips the contents of the jar out onto a table and spends the evening with good friends, delicious food and beverages, while reading each little, ran-

domly picked note.

It’s not until she reads all the wonderful blessings life showered her with during the year, that she truly reflects, ponders over, is grateful for and can appreciate how fortunate she is.

This way the year also ends on a positive, content and happy note, and leaves her readily motivated to commence the new year with a spring in her step, excited about what the future holds.

I love this idea! Not only does it give you the satisfaction of celebrating the goals you have achieved, but it also reminds you of how blessed your life is and how far you have come, how much you have grown.

So, instead of feeling like another year has flown by in a blink of an eye, you are reminded of how productive the amazing year has been, as it’s there right in front of you in black and white. With anticipation, I’m definitely going to put this into practice in 2016.

Camilla Hullick, Middle Tarwin.

Spend within means, council BASS Coast Shire councillors have fired the opening salvo as they attempt to punch through the Fair Go rates cap so they can continue to slug the community with excessive rate increases.

And to shake the confidence of ratepayers, they’ve immediately wheeled out those predictable old ‘frighteners’ namely, cuts to services and job losses.

The CEO is reported as saying “It’s time for the community to make some tough decisions” pertaining to where expenditure is targeted.

Well I reckon our elected councillors would do well to start with some tough decisions in pertaining to the exorbitant remuneration packages granted to the CEO and his executive staff.

And believe me, there is widespread community opinion that council CEOs and executives are too highly remunerated.

For example, some excerpts from the Local Government Minister’s media release: “Minister for Local Government, Natalie Hutchins, has cautioned local councils against using the government’s fair go rate cap as an excuse to cut vital staff and services, while they continue to waste money on excessive executive pay and councillor spending.

“Councils need to put a stop to over-the-top executive pay rises and needless waste”.

Bass Coast Shire Council wants to raise rates by an average of 4.7

Email: letters@thestar.com.au Post: PO Box 84 Leongatha 3953 Fax: 03 5662 4350

per cent this year. Because of the differential rating system, that will translate to an increase of around six per cent or more for residential ratepayers.

In other words, residential ratepayers are likely to be slugged with increases of more than four times the current inflation rate.

To get this through, council will need to have demonstrated extensive consultation with local communities. The council CEO believes Bass Coast has already done that through consultation around the development of council’s long term financial plan during the past 12 months and additional consultation through workshops.

What absolute nonsense!

Having attended many council meetings over the last 12 months, I’ve repeatedly attempted to get assurances from councillors they would hold rate increases to the inflation level, only to be fobbed off with referral to some future annual review.

In separate communications with councillors it has become quite apparent they will strongly resist the rate cap, regardless of community objection to their continuing rate gouging.

Well here we are. It’s Long Term Financial Plan review crunch time for our elected councillors.

The CEO has now served up his list of frighteners to councillors.

The question is whether they will meekly follow his lead and once again inflict excessive increases on ratepayers, or will they do what they are charged by the community to do and lead the CEO so this council starts living within ratepayers’ means.

These councillors need to get their house in order, and to stop behaving like spoiled children who think that can summon our money at will, as if it grows on trees.

Council hasn’t yet announced any community forum, but I hope to see you there when it happens.

Kevin Griffin, Inverloch.

Thanks council THE Friends of Mirboo North Pool would like to say thank you to all those at South Gippsland Shire Council and associated contractors who made such an outstanding effort to get the pool back up and running after a fault was discovered with one of the return water lines.

In particular the efforts of Alistair Fixter, Allan Smith, Ian Murphy, council’s depot staff, MPS and Rob Evison Concreting were all noted and incredibly appreciated.

As the fault to the pipe line was

discovered four days before Christmas it had the potential to close the pool down for a significant period of time.

As it was, only four ‘open days’ were lost. This is a reflection on the efforts that were made in council to identify the problem, commit the resources required and, with the support of their contractors, get the job done.

All this was achieved at a challenging time of the year for such a task to be presented. Thank you.

With the pool back open and available to all in what seems likely to be a record hot summer, it is a good time for all of us to be reminded of how much this beautiful asset means to our community, and what it would mean if this particular fault had closed the pool for the season which it had the potential to do. The good news is the faulty line has done no damage to the pool shell and it remains structurally sound to take the redevelopment that is being proposed for the pool.

However it is a very timely reminder for why this redevelopment is so important.

Friends of Mirboo North Pool.

Christmas in hospital “POOR me!” was my reaction when I knew I would be in Leongatha Hospital for Christmas.

I had pneumonia and would need help to recover, so there I was feeling sorry for myself.

Then, on Christmas Eve, my spirits lifted when Santa called to see me. He left me with a bag of delicious goodies.

The next to visit was from the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band who entertained the patients for an hour by playing lovely traditional Christmas carols (no-one was going to tell this lot they couldn’t play Christmas carols). Their music filled the whole hospital.

On Christmas morning the love continued, this time with a visit from a complete stranger, a young mother with her two small girls, who simply came into my room, wished me a Happy Christmas, and tied a pretty red balloon to my bed.

What a lovely gesture and what a great mum.

My husband came at midday with oysters, prawns and champagne. What a Christmas!

So thank you to all the staff at Leongatha Hospital for the wonderful care and attention that I received during my seven days with you.

If I had booked into the Crown Casino for Christmas, I would not have received better care or service.

Clare Cummins, Leongatha.

VOXPOP! VOX

What are your plans for the school holidays?

COUNCIL WORKS THIS WEEK Footpath Renewal: McCartin St, Leongatha Rail Trail Reconstruction: Welshpool – Pt Welshpool Drainage Maintenance: Dumbalk area Road Grading: Barnes Rd, Kardella Culvert Cleaning: Korumburra & Nyora areas 9 Smith St., Leongatha 3953 (Private Bag 4) Ph: 5662 9200 | council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Fax: 5662 3754 www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

“I’m going to hang out with friends, go to Warrnambool and have fun.”

Laura Richmond, Leongatha.

“Play with my Christmas presents and have fun.”

Tilly Richmond, Leongatha.

“I got to see my cousins at Christmas and I’ll be doing nippers at Inverloch.”

Will Creswell, Bena.

“I’d like to go to the cinema and watch The Good Dinosaur.”

Alyssa Snell, Mirboo North.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 9

MLA: get serious on South Gippsland water THE State Government needs to start getting serious about South Gippsland’s water needs according to Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien.

He said the government recently released a drought statement that made only passing reference to the needs of Korumburra, Loch, Nyora and Poowong and a government spokesperson bizarrely said the Macalister Irrigation District upgrade was a priority over the Northern Towns project.

“Labor doesn’t seem to get that there is anything of importance outside the train tracks of Melbourne. The Northern Towns business case was prepared in the last months of the Coalition Government, but the project was left unfunded by Labor in this year’s budget,” Mr O’Brien said.

“It’s now before the government again and must be funded in next year’s budget.

“For the government to say its priority is the Macalister Irrigation District upgrade project, nearly two hours away, is just bizarre.

“One is an irrigation project and the other a town water security project and the two simply can’t be compared. It’s a bit like saying we can’t have the Avalon Airshow because the government’s priority is the AFL Grand Final. It’s just as ridiculous.”

Mr O’Brien said the expansion of

Burra Foods and growth in the northern towns put pressure on water supplies and this year’s dry season only highlighted the need for the upgrade.

“Labor should be funding this. It is making lots of noise about water but so far has shown no inclination to get behind this project,” he said.

“Let me be clear, this project is not about using the desalination plant. It is simply about connecting Korumburra, Loch, Nyora and Poowong to the Lance Creek system and ultimately to the Melbourne supply, if necessary.

“Labor’s drought statement talked up the government’s plans but basically left the Northern Towns project in the hands of South Gippsland Water.

That’s not good enough, Melbourne Labor must get behind this project in next year’s budget.”

The only mention of the Northern Towns Project in the government’s drought statement referred to the fact South Gippsland Water was undertaking “long-term planning to improve the reliability of supply to Korumburra through opportunities presented by the water grid” and that the desalination plant at Wonthaggi was available as a back-up source of drinking water.

The statement also mentioned water restrictions were unlikely for Mirboo North this summer but still possible.

Water Minister Lisa Neville’s office did not respond to request for comment before going to print.

Pool re-opens for summer THE Mirboo North Outdoor Pool re-opened on Tuesday, December 29 following works to fix a damaged pipe that caused the base of the pool to lift.

South Gippsland Shire Council’s pool maintenance contractors completed the repair works including: repairing the damaged section of pipe, laying a new concrete slab over the exposed pipe, and replacing broken and blocked grates in the dive ditch area.

They also sealed the new concrete slab to the existing pool structure, and cleaned out and refilled the pool.

The repair works undertaken are intended to be a permanent solution to the issue. Council does not expect further works will be necessary for the pipe to continue to hold water.

Council planned to have the Mirboo North Outdoor Pool open as soon as pos-

sible so the community could enjoy the facility during the warmest part of the year.

Due to the urgent nature of the works, council was able to re-open the pool earlier than expected. All teams involved in the reinstatement works committed to working over the Christmas period to ensure the pool was ready for the New Year.

The re-opening delighted the Friends of Mirboo North Pool.

In a letter to The Star today, the group thanked council and associated contractors “who made such an outstanding effort to get the pool back up and running”.

“As it was, only four ‘open days’ were lost. This is a reflection on the efforts that were made in council to identify the problem, commit the resources required and, with the support of their contractors, get the job done,” the group stated.

Time fllies: from left, owners Ross Considine, Tony Smith and Phillip Johnston marked 40 years for local construction firm Considine and Johnston at the recent break-up before Christmas.

Builder notches up 40 years LEONGATHA based firm Considine and Johnston had extra cause for celebration recently when the building company reached its 40th birthday.

Celebrations at Ross Considine’s property at Koonwarra were extra big this year when some of the original apprentices returned just before Christmas to mark the occasion.

Many of these apprentices have now moved on to run businesses of their own. The firm prides itself on being able to give young workers the opportunity to enter a trade and develop their skills through the business and create jobs for the district.

The building company known as Considine and Johnston was formed in September 1975, with the partner-

ship of Ross Considine and Phillip Johnston.

Both Ross and Phil completed their carpentry apprenticeship under Stan Stubbs, now residing in Inverloch. When Stan announced his retirement, he also left incomplete some minor building projects. Stan offered the work to Ross and Phil, and so the company began.

In the early days, Considine and Johnston focused on new homes and renovations, with the turnover approximately $350,000 per year.

Their first project was in April 1976, which was a new home for Ernie and Mary Thompson at Leongatha North.

By 1980, Considine and Johnston began undertaking commercial projects, specialising in hotel renovations

which were completed throughout Gippsland and Melbourne.

Tony Smith joined the company as a director in July 1983. Tony had already completed his apprenticeship with Considine and Johnston, as well as design courses at night school.

In 1988, the company set up separate divisions known as commercial projects, new homes and home improvements. This created a streamlined operation, with each director specialising in a particular field. Current annual turnover at Considine and Johnston is approximately $6 million per year.

Now after 40 years, Considine and Johnston prides itself on quality built constructions, using reliable tradesmen and suppliers.

Water savers SOUTH Gippslanders are among the most water-wise people in Victoria.

South Gippsland Water households have the second lowest water consumption in the state of 116 kilolitres annually, compared to the state average of 188 kilolitres.

The impressive statistics were released in the Water Performance Report issued by the economic regulator for the Victorian water industry, the Essential Services Commission (ESC) last week.

The report examines the performance of 13 regional water businesses, three metropolitan retailers and Melbourne Water for the 12 months to June 2015.

South Gippsland Water performed well in a number of areas throughout the report, managing director Philippe du Plessis said.

“The average household bill dropped during 2014-15 from $992 to $957, the

fourth lowest tariff in the state. We were only beaten by the three corporations who primarily operate off river water systems and do not maintain reservoirs,” he said.

The reduced bills were largely due to the State Government’s Fairer Water Rebate Initiative.

This identified efficiencies and cost savings that were passed onto Victorian households through lower water bills.

South Gippsland Water performed well in customer service, but there were areas where South Gippsland Water was below average, including the average duration of customers off water.

A major trunk main break in Wonthaggi resulted in 10 per cent of customers being without water for an average of 205 minutes.

Sewer main blockages also increased, largely due to a change in reporting requirements, with a rise of 60 per cent in sewer main blockages.

Jobs galore: 40 apprentices have been trained under the watch of Leongatha based company Considine and Johnston over 40 years. Pictured from left are just some of the apprentices who turned up for the recent Christmas break-up, Dylan Van Dyke, Luke Bowman, Josh McGannon, Don Wilson, Blake Van Rooy, Rob Heppell, Kane Stevic, Luke Todd, Peter Watchorn, Adam Johnston, Graham (Butch) McGannon, Ian Davidson and Brett Stubbs.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Column 7 THE delights of market fare will be available for all to enjoy at the Inverloch Twilight Market on Wednesday, January 6.

The event will be held in The Glade from 4-8pm

by the Inverloch and District Lions Club.

All the favourite stallholders who sell anything grown, reared or manufactured in Gippsland will be there.

Local Snippets

There will be coffee, vegetables, fruit, Danish hot dogs, flowers, cold drinks, wines, cheese, olive oils, plants and delicious hot foods to eat whilst leisurely strolling through the

market,.

Buskers will provide entertainment.

“The twilight market will provide an extra activ-

The meeting will be held upstairs at the swim club clubrooms at the pool from 6pm to gauge the community’s interest in forming a ‘Friends Of’ group for the pool.

Council is seeking enthusiastic and passionate members of the community to help

Red Cross creates history THE Leongatha Historical Society has received another addition to its collection.

At the December meeting of Leongatha Red Cross, the unit presented to the historical society a book The Power of Humanity, produced by Red

Cross to celebrate 100 years of Red Cross in Australia.

The historical society’s Pat Spinks was pleased to receive the book from Red Cross president Lois Young.

Mrs Spinks said the book would be a valuable addition to the society’s archives.

November was a busy month for Red Cross members with several catering

For adoption

engagements including the rose show.

The proceeds have been put towards the appeal for Syrian relief, aid for refugees and other Red Cross work within Australia.

The meeting closed with a lovely Christmas lunch at the RSL. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, January 28 at 10.30am in the meeting room at the RSL. New members are welcome.

support their local pool.

Friends of the Korumburra Outdoor Pool will be a self-led group working alongside council and the YMCA to promote pool usage and events.

Council’s swimming pool liaison officer Jake O’Hara said the Friends of the Korumburra Outdoor Pool would be an important support group to assist with the pool’s operation.

“We envisage the Friends of the Korumburra Outdoor Pool to help run activities and barbeques and be an important source of public feedback for the pool,” he said.

“Similar support groups exist for the Poowong, Mirboo North, Foster and Toora outdoor pools and are a vital component of council’s aquatic strategy.”

Individuals interested in the Friends of the Korumburra Outdoor Pool group who are unable to attend the information meeting can contact Mr O’Hara for more information at jake.ohara@ southgippsland.vic.gov.au.

Smart animals: Koonwarra and South Gippsland sweltered on New Year’s Eve, with the mercury reaching nearly 40 degrees. Alison Wallace was amused by how wildlife kept cool at her property at the end of Sewells Road. A wallaby enjoyed a bath and a ringtail possum sought refuge behind a bike wheel.

Recording the past: Leongatha Red Cross president Lois Young (left) presents a copy of the book The Power of Humanity to Leongatha Historical Society president Pat Spinks.

DSH. grey and white desexed female 3years old microchip number 900012000604662 #311

Foundation gives to schools THE Rotary Club of Korumburra has recently made five more donations from the Robyn Holmes Foundation.

Dsh, desexed black and white male Microchip number 956000004016971 #214

Plenty of other caingts and kittens seek loving homes BD BUS/429

South Gippsland Animal Shelter

KOR8220501

(Korumburra Vet Clinic), is the South Gippsland Shire Pound Mon-Fri, 8.30am - 5.30pm on 5658 1900

Sponsored by:

ity for the many holidaymakers expected to flock to our renowned seaside township,” Lions club president Klaus Edel said.

Korumburra pool needs friends SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is holding a meeting on January 14, 2016 to identify people who would like to be involved in volunteering at the Korumburra outdoor pool.

Play time: from left, Maisy Taylor from Albury, New South Wales and Matilda Hanily from Leongatha enjoyed their Christmas Eve at Inverloch’s Rainbow Park.

Email: col7@thestar.com.au Post: PO Box 84 Leongatha 3953 Fax: 03 5662 4350

Five local primary schools have each received $1000 to help with programs that will have a significant impact on student learning.

The schools with their chosen program are: • Korumburra Primary School - breakfast program; • St Joseph’s Primary School - social skills program; • Loch Primary School equipment to assist students who have learning disabilities; • Nyora Primary School - vegetable garden program; and

• Poowong Consolidated School - mathematical equipment.

Robyn Holmes Foundation chairperson Peter Biggins visited each of the primary schools recently to present the $1000 cheques to the principals of each school: Nathan Pirouet (Korumburra Primary School), Kate Dourley (St Joseph’s Primary School),

Tracey King (Loch Primary School), Mick Hussey (Nyora Primary School) and Cate McKenzie (Poowong Consolidated School).

“We are extremely happy to be able to help a large number of students with these grants, which will have a positive impact in the new school year,” Mr Biggins said.

Young adventurers: from left, Georgie Spenser, Barry Ferguson, Brayden Greaves, Chloe Simpson, Ashley Greaves, John Simpson, Nick Popple, Ryan Frank and Jordan Brown are now in Sydney for the Australian Jamboree.

Scouts soak up fun of Sydney ELEVEN members of Leongatha Scouts are now in Sydney for the Australian Jamboree.

Here you go: Robyn Holmes Foundation chairperson Peter Biggins presents a cheque for $1000 to Loch Primary School principal Tracey King towards equipment for children with learning disabilities.

The jamboree, held every three years, is at Sydney’s Cataract Scout Park from Sunday, January 2 and is expected to attract 11,000 adventurers from across the country.

Leongatha Seconds president Barry Ferguson will lead 10 other local scouts to the event, with this year marking the fifth jamboree of his adventuring career.

“I have previously been to jamborees in Adelaide, Queensland, Sydney and Victoria and it will be great to return to Sydney with the Leongatha Seconds,” he said.

“The jamboree is an enormous gathering of people from all across Australia to partake in two weeks of activities and celebrations. They run rock climbing, abseiling, water activities, tours and scavenger hunts.”

Leongatha Seconds have already sent their equipment up to Sydney and will depart with a stretcher and a bag with essentials.

“The Scouts cook all of their own meals and take care of themselves. We all band together and

basically build our own city of tents. We have our own hospital, a newspaper, a post office, everything that a city would have,” Mr Ferguson said.

“A lot of community groups have supported us in making the trip. We would like to thank RSL, Lions, Rotary and other local businesses who have helped us out.”

John Simpson will also lead a group for his first jamboree.

“At this stage I am a bit nervous about the trip. I just want to make sure we have everything prepared. But I know the second I get there we will have a blast,” he said.

Ethan Bath, a Leongatha Adventurer Scout, attended the Queensland jamboree three years ago and said the trip with his friends was unforgettable.

“It is definitely one of the best things I have ever done and I will never forget it. I would recommend it to anybody doing scouts,” he said.

Avid Scouts members are also planning ahead to attend the 2019 Royal Jamboree in West Virginia, USA. The Royal Jamboree is an international gathering held every four years with thousands of adventure groups gathering together to celebrate.

What’s HOT THIS SUMME R

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 11

Cars to thrill this weekend

THE Kustom Nationals will be held at San Remo and Phillip Island this week, from January 8-10.

The 14th annual event is the Holy Grail of the kustom car movement in Australia, when once a year the stage is set for all lovers of modified vehicles to come together to witness the latest offerings of the kustom car culture, from mildly kustomized cruisers to crazy kustoms!

The Kustom Nationals is the means to help you express your view of automotive art, with representatives from top national and international magazines as well as auto

related television shows present to broadcast our kustom lifestyle to the world.

The Kustom Nationals is a three day fun filled party, and will be kicking off on Friday, January 8 with the much awaited beach party.

Friday will only be open to pre-entered vehicles.

Hundreds of kustoms and hot rods will take over the township of San Remo for the duration of the annual beach party.

During the day, visitors can cruise over to the Island to visit secluded beaches and townships, or hang around at the San Remo Foreshore.

Later in the afternoon, bands will set up on the foreshore with the bay as a backdrop, entertaining enthusiasts until late in the evening.

There’s plenty to do during the beach party with numerous cafes, hotels, and other interesting establishments along the main street which is being closed to normal traffic for exclusive kustom and hot rod parking.

On Saturday, visitors will be treated to the Rockabilly Festival held at the grand prix track from 8am until 6pm, with nonstop music featuring the cream of the crop of rockabilly bands from around Australia.

Late in the evening, the bands will relocate to the township of Cowes foreshore from 4.30pm until late.

The Saturday night event will only be open to entered vehicles.

On Sunday the emphasis will be on non-stop cruising of the famous Phillip Island Grand Prix track, while rockabilly

bands continue to provide entertainment.

Over the weekend, people can watch kustomising demonstrations.

Beach parties, rockabilly festival, kustomizing how-to, pinstriping workshop, trophy queen contest, model car show, kustom culture exhibition, hot rod and lifestyle traders, customs, hot rods, clas-

sics, mini rods, lowrider bikes, flamethrowers and cruising – it does not get much better than this!

So what are you waiting for? Make plans to be at Phillip Island on January 8-10 for the 14th Kustom Nationals.

No BYO alcohol or glass allowed in the venue, and no dogs allowed. Vehicle cut off is 1965.

This year there will be no stopping around the track allowed for safety reasons.

Access to the main arena facing the band stand is open to hot rods and kustoms by invitation only.

Single day entry $15, family day entry $30, children under 14 $5. Weekend single pass $25 and family pass $50.

Motoring fans: San Remo and Phillip Island will be car-lovers’ heaven this Friday through to Sunday when the Kustom Nationals come to the area.

Above, Aussie pride: from left, Miller and Campbell Anderson enjoyed the typical Australian summer weather at Inverloch beach recently.

CAS2940161

Right, Summer smiles: from left, Laura and Isabel Palmer enjoyed the warm weather on the beach at Inverloch recently.

South Gippsland's Leading Entertainment and Dining Venue Great seasonal menu and daily specials Large family groups catered for Alfresco Deck and Coffee Lounge Live Entertainment Fantastic Kids Playroom Award Winning Wine List Visitors and Guest Welcome

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What’s HOT THIS SUMM ER

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

New bar stands out THE Wonthaggi Club has a bright new look with the new bar Stage 1 all but complete.

Choice: patrons in the stylish surrounds at Stage 1 at the Wonthaggi Club on McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi.

The decor is calming and provides the perfect setting for enjoying excellent food and beverages.

Stage 1 offers a smart and modern dining environment which is casual but chic.

The menu offers a wide range of popular foods including tacos, steak sandwiches, lemon pepper calamari, dips, antipasto, and vegie burgers.

There are a range of beers and ciders on tap – in fact 12 in all - and a bar stocked with everyone’s favourite tipples, whether it is a wine or a cocktail.

The staff at the Wonthaggi Club are known for their hospitality. You will find this extends to the preparation of food where attention to detail makes it anything but your standard pub food.

Here, the food is good and you won’t believe the prices.

When you’re done with food and drinks and it’s time for coffee, here again, the Wonthaggi Club comes good.

Stage 1 doesn’t cut corners; it seems to have everything just right and under the watchful eye of a management that is keen to keep it that way.

The menu includes wagyu sliders, spicy buffalo wings, mixed tacos and range of share plates with their own matching wines, all served in this exciting new space.

This casual bar dining is complemented with a new children’s space adjoining the traditional bistro in the original building. Here you’ll see all the favourites you’d expect, in addition to mod-

ern daily specials served from midday up until 8pm. Make sure you book in advance over summer, as the club bistro tends to fill up fast.

The Wonthaggi Club is the perfect place to have a wonderful meal, a quiet drink or fantastic for your next family function.

Or if you’re looking for an alternative, Wonthaggi Golf Club Bistro is also available seven days a week for lunch and dinner, with a picturesque setting looking out over the kangaroo filled course.

Available for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and corporate events, Wonthaggi Golf Club provides a sophisticated venue with a relaxed atmosphere for all occasions.

Functions holders choosing the seated function package are given the opportunity to plan a meal of up to five courses suitable for weddings and birthdays, whereas the finger food menus are more suited for cocktail styled functions and can be a perfect appetiser for a corporate event.

A courtesy bus is also available with prior notice to pick you up or drop you off.

For more details on other exciting events and promotions, simply visit w w w. w o n t h a g g i c l u b . com.au, call 5672 1007 or pop in and ask the friendly staff at 16 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi.

Place to be: there are 12 beers and ciders on tap at Stage 1 at the Wonthaggi Club. The bar is already known for its spacious, modern setting.

What’s HOT THIS SUMME R

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 13

Swap meet is heaven THIS S Sunday S d will ill see Korumburra host the biggest and longest running one day event in South Gippsland.

The South Gippsland Historical Automobile Club’s 33rd swap meet will be held at the Korumburra Showgrounds on Sunday, January 10 from 6am until mid afternoon.

More than 4000 people attended the 2015 event, perusing vintage or special cars, parts, stationary engines, farm machinery and anything mechanical, plus antiques, toys, books and more.

Stallholders and shoppers come from across the region, Victoria and interstate because they know the event is something special, said the car club’s Gerard Bruning.

“We are the first swap meet on the swap meet calendar, we attract the holidaymakers and what we are hearing from the stallholders and the buying public is that it’s a great social event,” he said.

“The meet has a great variety of old and new

stuff, ff and d iit hhas those h hhard d to find items.”

For an entry fee of just $5 a head, the swap meet makes for good value entertainment.

“You can spend five minutes there or five hours.

There are a number of young families that come along and a lot of children have stalls of their used toys and when they get a sale, the children can buy something they want,” Mr Bruning said.

Early bird shoppers arrive at 6am to find special items and love being able to see what they are buying, as opposed to buying online.

“Between 10am and 11.30am you can’t move,” Mr Bruning said.

“From the smallest items and the biggest items, there is something of interest for everyone.”

Proceeds from swap meets over the years have helped fund the transformation of the club’s rooms at the Leongatha Recreation Reserve that now serve as a social hub for the club and the community.

“Not only does the event benefit the whole

area on the h day d andd the h day d before, you can also see how it has benefited the area with what we have done with our clubrooms,” Mr Bruning said.

“A lot of money has been spent there and it’s a public facility.”

The club now has more members to help run the event, among them Laurie Cooper.

He has restored a GT380 Suzuki motorcycle, one of three models made by Suzuki with three cylinder two stroke motors all produced in the early to mid seventies.

GT means grand touring and the 380 is the smallest of the three models.

Mr Cooper’s bike has low mileage and needs only a few parts to complete.

“The paintwork only needs polishing and the chrome cleaning up. The brakes need overhauling front and rear, as well as a couple of better tyres,” he said.

“It’s good that the wiring, lights and switches are working OK. I hope to have the bike on the road before the end of the year.”

Relaxing hobby: South Gippsland Historical Automobile Club’s Laurie Cooper at work restoring his GT380 Suzuki motorcycle. He will be among the club members running the 33rd swap meet this Sunday, January 10 at the Korumburra Showgrounds.

Island the place to be CELEBRATE the arrival of summer to the sounds of live music, and tantalise your taste buds with some of the finest local produce at Summer Vibes this summer on Churchill Island.

Kick back, relax and take in the glorious views as you sample local cheeses, gourmet offerings, beers and wines on the lawns at Churchill Island.

The new chef at the much loved Churchill Island Café has embraced all the region and the farm has to offer with a whole range of tempting new dishes, including many ingredients straight out of the farm’s kitchen garden.

Summer Vibes is held at Churchill Island Heritage Farm every Friday in December and January, except Christmas Day, until Friday, January 29, from 6pm8pm.

Entry to the café and lawn area is free. Gourmet menu and drinks at menu prices.

Come and feel the Summer Vibe at Churchill Island and enjoy the atmosphere, food and great music from tal-

ented local musicians.

Churchill Island is part of Phillip Island Nature Parks, a not for profit organisation. All revenue raised is invested into research, conservation, education and wildlife rescue and rehabilitation activities.

The nature parks also recently opened the Antarctic Journey attraction, in conjunction with WWF-Australia.

The new experience at the Nobbies Centre tells a powerful story of the magnificent landscapes and wildlife along the journey from Phillip Island to Antarctica via the Southern Ocean.

Large, breathtaking images and video footage of key iconic wildlife including whales, penguins, albatross and seals guide visitors through the interactive exhibit.

A highlight of the experience is the world-class ‘Augmented Reality’ area, where technology allows visitors to stand on the ice in a virtual reality Antarctic environment and ‘interact’ with wildlife.

The Antarctic Journey is a permanent exhibition and is open seven days a week.

More info at www.penguins.org.au

WORKING TOGETHER TO PROTECT OUR NATURAL WORLD

The South Gippsland Branch of GIPPSLAND HISTORICAL AUTOMOBILE CLUB INC. presents

33nd L ANNUA

SWAP MEET

& VINTAGE & CLASSIC CAR DISPLAY

Grounds closed 10pm Saturday till 6am Sunday

SUNDAY, JAN 10, 2016 | 6AM START | KORUMBURRA SHOW GROUNDS TO INCLUDE ALL CATEGORIES: AUTO, MOTORCYCLE, STATIONARY ENGINE, FARM MACHINERY, ANTIQUE, ANYTHING MECHANICAL!

Bric-a-brac, car books and much more in pavilion LIGHT REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE FROM 6AM

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What’s HOT THIS SUMME R

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Enjoy cool evenings at mine THE State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi offers families one of the perfect ways to occupy a balmy summer evening.

in January there are free open air movies for family holiday entertainment.

On January 8 it is Despicable Me 2.

On January 15 it is Night at the Museum and on January 22 Postman Pat.

On three Friday nights

That is loads of enjoyment.

Ensure a place by registering your attendance online at www.juniorranger.com.au.

Movies begin on dark around 9pm but come along earlier as the cafe

is open from 6.30pm for dinner with the full regular menu, which includes an under 12s menu plus the special of the day.

Bookings are preferred.

Movie goers are welcome to bring their own picnic but the event is

strictly alcohol free.

The State Coal Mine experiences its busiest time over the summer holiday period and the staff at the park do their best to accommodate visitors with tours throughout the day.

Anthony Jones, a Parks

Victoria ranger at the park, said underground temperatures experienced during the tour are 15 to 17 degrees.

“It’s the best place to be when the heat is on above ground,” Mr Jones said.

The park opens daily

at 10am and is the perfect place to get in touch with the history of the area.

Tours take visitors underground, to a collection of historic buildings and machinery, and the cafe, souvenir shop and gardens.

Ready to roll: from left, Kayden Cornish, and Joseph and Tyler Kelly from Coronet Bay found plenty of interest at the State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi.

Minor miners: from left, Seth Greenland, Tamikah Greenland, Leo Von Unger and Kai Greenland enjoy a day of fun activities at the State Coal Mine.

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What’s HOT THIS SUMME R

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 15

Fun in comfort at libraries

WHETHER you are six or 60, Bass Coast and South Gippsland libraries have something for you this summer.

So when boredom strikes, Christmas is a distant dream, and it is 40 degrees outside, take in an event or activity at your local library.

For the less technically minded, Leongatha, Korumburra and Poowong libraries are running a series of get to know your Christmas present sessions in January and February.

If you’re baffled by that new iPad, or you feel like your smartphone is smarter than you, they can help.

For Bass Coast residents, Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Phillip Island libraries will continue to provide one on one Tech Talks. Contact your local library for details.

And it need not end there.

For those inspired by their

new found mastery over their computerised gadgets, Inverloch will be running an introduction to online resources, providing a taster of the amazing things that are waiting only a click away.

At Leongatha they will be explaining how to get started with researching your family tree.

If you prefer gardening to staring at a screen, then you may want to check out Inverloch Library’s regular produce swaps, which will continue through the summer season, or attend Wonthaggi Library’s backyard chooks and all things chicken session, at the beginning of February, where chicken expert Elise Hoc will explain all things fowl.

What about books? At Wonthaggi there will be a special colouring in for adults session in February, where you can rediscover one of the simple pleasures of childhood.

Or, if you have the next bestseller gathering dust in

your bottom drawer, you can book a place on local writer Beth Montgomery’s editing workshop, also at Wonthaggi.

The Phillip Island Library will be holding both a January author talk, where Greg Buchanan will tell all about the Phillip Island penguins’ fight for survival.

Finally, also at Phillip Island, there’ll be a book chat session, where you can discuss all things literary over a cup of tea and a biscuit.

Libraries do not stop for summer, and after a short break for Christmas and the New Year, their popular Story Time, Rhyme Time and Lego Clubs will be back and running right through the hot months of the year.

CARP Productions, the hugely popular children’s theatre group, will be performing in Leongatha and Wonthaggi in the second week of January. Bookings are essential for this one, so call your library.

Also in January, Wonthaggi and Phillip Island libraries

will be running How to Write Revolting Rhymes workshops.

Run by Bass Coast libraries’ poet in residence Jon Dixon, children aged eight to 12 are guaranteed to leave with an amusing poem about their mum, dad or sibling.

Stimulate the mental and creative urges of primary aged children with the SCRATCH computer coding sessions at Wonthaggi and Leongatha in January. If your child is going to be the next Bill Gates, maybe this could be their first step to world recognition.

The curtain will be going up twice in January at the Phillip Island Kids’ Movie Club. Like all library events tickets are free. Bring your own snacks and drinks.

And finally, if paints and paper are more your children’s thing, then try one of the following. Stories, crafts and holiday fun for ages five-plus at Inverloch, mak-

ing paper planes and origami workshops at Wonthaggi, and special paint your pillow case sessions across the South Gippsland libraries.

All of the above events are on in January and February.

They are all free of charge, but you need to book tickets for several of them.

Place to be: keep cool while enjoying interesting activities in air-conditioned comfort at your local library this summer.

KAYAK & BIKE HIRE

Lotto win sparks celebration THERE is more reason than ever to call in at the Wonthaggi Newsagency.

This is where a division one winning Tattslotto ticket worth almost $500,000 was purchased on the weekend of December 26-27.

The winner, a Cape Paterson man who has chosen to remain anonymous, has been entering the same numbers for ever and a day, and was in disbelief when they came up.

“With my winnings I’ll fix up my house and go on a holiday – perhaps a cruise!” he said.

The owner of the newsagency, Fiona Fleming, and her father John Fleming, displayed the bottle of sparkling wine Tattersalls presented to them as a gift for selling the winning ticket.

Newsagencies like the Wonthaggi Newsagency remain as relevant as ever.

As well as selling winning Tattslotto tickets, the newsagency sells a great range of newspapers, magazines, stationery, art supplies and giftware.

The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and none more so than 85 year old John Fleming who has seen

Wonthaggi undergo massive change in the 54 years he has been a resident.

Aldi currently occupies the site where he set up a Holden dealership in 1968.

“People said I was crazy, the town is going to die,” Mr Fleming said.

Having been the mayor in 1977, involved in the CFA for 54 years and the Wonthaggi Lions Club for just as long, Mr Fleming is the perfect man to have behind the counter.

“I do it because I can, not because I have to,” he said.

And while he might be 85, Mr Fleming is well up with the times.

“I have Telstra shares because as long as people keep texting there’s money in it,” he said.

However you look at it, the Wonthaggi Newsagency is a winning establishment.

Mrs Fleming said, “Wonthaggi is a small country town but really ramps up during the Christmas break with people holidaying here, so it’s a great win for the area and fantastic to see it’s gone to a local customer.”

Pop the cork: from left, John and Fiona Fleming with the bottle of sparkling wine presented by Tattersalls to the store for selling the winning division one Tattslotto ticket.

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What’s HOT THIS SUMME R Tractor pull to excite

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

A FEW surprises.

That’s what Allyn Reeves and the other organisers of the annual Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show have promised for this year’s event on January 16 at Rutter Reserve, Tooradin.

An exciting part of the local calendar, the Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show is a non-profit event run by a committee of local community-minded people.

They run this event to put all proceeds back into local clubs, schools and various charitie.

Last year the event was able to pour $30,000 back into the local community.

Allyn said the event had been running since 1998 with a truck show introduced in 2005 and now it offers something for everyone including kids’ amusements,

Don’t miss this: the Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show on January 16 promises fun on wheels.

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helicopter rides, vintage tractor pulls, live music and car displays.

The event will kick off at 10am and go through until 10pm.

Last year 5000 people went through the gates for the popular event.

“That wasn’t all at once though,” Allyn said.

“People come and go through the day depending on their interests.”

Trucks are from 10am-6pm, vintage tractors 10am-1pm, burnouts 2pm-3pm and cars 10am-5pm. Times may vary.

Gate tickets only and EFTPOS available.

General pricing: adults $25, kids $10, family $60, aged pension $15.

Kids under 10 years free. Strictly no dogs.

B A S S C O A S T PA I N T B A L L

0413 693 376 FOR BOOKINGS | www.basscoastpaintball.com.au

Family fun: the excitement of engines will enthral visitors to the Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show on January 16.

RUTTER RESERVE TOORADIN

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TRACTORS: 10AM-10PM

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TRUCKS: 10AM-6PM

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 17

Summer

Celebrating 40 years

A show with the lot

A SUCCESSFUL little country show.

That is the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show at Wonthaggi in the words of Rosemary Loughnan, secretary of the organising committee.

But the Wonthaggi Show is anything but a little country show.

Visitors to the recreation reserve in Wonthaggi this Saturday will see a high standard of exhibition and a program packed with so much to see and do.

Each and every one of those visitors will come away thinking, that was anything but a little country show.

The Wonthaggi Show is unlike most other agricultural shows in that the town has the sea on one side and over half of the patrons on Saturday will be holidaymakers.

Mrs Loughnan said, “They expect to be entertained.”

And entertainment there will be truck loads of.

While cakes, flower arrangements, horses, cattle and poultry all occupy a central place in any agricultural show, this is a show that offers something to everyone, regardless of age, sex or interests.

Reflecting the show’s proximity to the sea, there is Seaweed Sally’s watery display of live and preserved rock pool creatures found at

local beaches. Seaweed Sally is marine biologist and her display is not to be missed.

There are 500 entries in the photography exhibition.

All are by amateurs and the competition stipulates that, to ensure the playing field is level, there can be no manipulation of the original image.

For city kids there is the chance to pat that giant of the equine world, the Clydesdale, and see up close what provided the power on the farm prior to the motorised tractor.

The entertainment area has a fabulous program from 11am until 3.30pm featuring everything from motocross stunt performers, a medieval society parade, a kelpie show and a performance by the Bass Coast Pickers to the hilarity of magician, comedian and musician Mat Woodrow.

It’s all brought together

by master of ceremonies, the highly talented Geoffrey W. Graham, an Australian in the mould of Banjo Paterson, the bush bard.

“This is a really well balanced show,” Mrs Loughnan said.

It wouldn’t be a show without Tubby the robot and he will be entertaining people all over the show grounds.

It is 40 years since what is now the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show became a feature of Wonthaggi’s annual calendar which was previously run at Dalyston.

The show is dependent on sponsors whose backing will be clear to see on show day, but Bass Coast Shire is the biggest supporter to put its interest and weight behind the show.

Given the show is put together by a small band of

dedicated people, it is no small wonder that it continues to materialise.

As Mrs Loughnan said, “The biggest threat to the show is the lack of people prepared to put their hands up to help out.”

The curiously named fly ball event is actually more like a relay race for dogs and exciting to watch.

Some of the country’s best woodchoppers will be on display. There will be alpacas and pigs, medieval street theatre, vintage cars, clowns and stilt walkers, Doug Goodman’s interactive one man band and of course the sideshow with all the rides, the fairy floss and the show bags.

Have you ever seen sponge cakes like those at the Wonthaggi Show?

Surely, there is something in the air around here!

Congratulation to the Bass Coast Agricultural Show Committee on 40 years!

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BASS COAST SUMMER AGRICULTURAL SHOW Saturday January 9 at Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve (map - Vic Roads Ref - Page 713S - 4-5)

AROUND THE GROUNDS Show Day Entry: Group Ticket: $30 (2 adult + 2 children) Adults: $15 Pensioner (card required) & Child over 5 & under 16: $5 Enquiries: 56 723 259 basscoastagshow@hotmail.com www.basscoastagshow.org.au: FB & Twitter

Supreme beef: Scott Pugh, left, and handler Ryan Bajada with Greg and Leigh Price of Trafalgar’s supreme beef exhibit, Debonair Juliet, at the 2015 Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show.

A SUNSMART SHOW DAY with SUN SHADE: HYDRO STATION

A tall act: street performers, circus acts, comedians and musicians will all add colour and fun to the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show this Saturday.

Crop with the lot: show stoppers like this home produce entry at the Wonthaggi Show, are quite simply, inspiring.

Piping hot: the Australia Fair Grand Concert Street Organ is an impressive looking and even more impressive sounding musical instrument which show goers will delight in listening to.

Champion large bird: Kevin Collins with his champion bird, an old English game hen, at Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show last year.

Farm Education Centre

Island Marquees & Wonthaggi Amcal Pharmacy & Wonthaggi Auto Lec Wood Chop Competition (Check their timetable on show day) Trimmer Tree, Coastal Fresh Peas & PD Allan Entertainment Arena Music, Entertainment, Fun 11am - 4pm – see overleaf Island Secure Storage Dog Flyball Alex Scott and Staff Equestrian Show Poultry Exhibition Dennis Ginn - Alex Scott & Staff Inverloch supporting the Clydesdales, Alpacas and Pigs Harry Fergie Tractors and machinery Bass Coast Vintage Cars Leongatha Medieval Tournament and street theatre Black Snake Productions KFC supported Clown, stilt walker, circus workshop Alex Scott & Staff Creative Arts, Craft needlework, Horticulture Bakers Delight Home produce Australian Rare Flora & Fauna: Bass Coast Hospital Vol. service promotion Wonthaggi Girl Guides: Bass Coast Playground planning stands Australia Fair - Street organ Wonthaggi Citizens Band RACV Wonthaggi - Shop Photography Exhibition Clancy's Printing Services supporting Seaweed Sally Display of live & preserved rock pool animals - found at our beaches First National Real Estate South Coast Beef cattle judging V.L.E. Junior Competitions - Handling & grooming Doug Goodman One Man Band Tubby the Robot Dennis Ginn - Alex Scott and Staff Inverloch supporting Barn buddies - Animal nursery Matt Woodrow aka Dusty Boots magician, musician and comedian Carnival, sideshows, show bags , fairy floss and rides CFA and SES displays Commercial stalls and stands – huge variety Devonshire teas, Sandwiches – Wonthaggi Tennis Club Wonthaggi Historical Society Sunday January 11 - John and Margaret Oldham Equestrian Arena featuring SHC and Landmark - Open Hack and Pony Rings

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Meat grown and sold direct from the farm Follow us on facebook

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New chum: Tubby the robot is a hit with the children at the Wonthaggi Show where he has quite a following.

425 Lynnes Road, Wattlebank Mobile 0417 001 287

Perimeter main arena Perimeter main arena Perimeter to main arena Near Alex Scott Pavilion All over the place Alex Scott & Staff Pavilion Alex Scott Pavilion Verandah Near Alex Scott Pavilion Near Alex Scott Pavilion Alex Scott & Staff Pavilion Angling Club Rooms Cattle Exhibition Arena Near Show rooms All over the place Near Poultry pavilion Everywhere Perimeter Main Arena Near Wood Chop & Flyball All over the place Show Rooms Verandah Angling Club Rooms Main Arena

Trimmer Tree, Coastal Fresh Peas PD Allan Registered Builder ENTERTAINMENT ARENA PROGRAM

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Woodchop Arena Near Alex Scott Pavilion Entertainment Arena No 1 Oval Dog Fly ball Arena Alex Scott Arena Poultry Shed Near Poultry Shed

5 hours of continuous fabulous entertainment for the Show day crowd All this below plus some surprises as well 11.15am 11.45am 12.30pm 1pm 1.30pm 2.30pm 3.00pm 3.30pm

Geoffrey W. Graham (also entertains & MC between acts ) WHIP Industries - Motocross stunt performers with amazing natural ability & a huge bag of tricks. Exciting daredevils & just breathtaking Tubby and friends (Clydies) Mat Woodrow aka Dusty Boots magician, musician and comedian Paul McPhail Kelpies Leongatha Medieval parade Bass Coast Pickers - string music Whip Industries

Times are approximate. Program may be subject to last minute changes, Apologies for any inconvenience

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

BEAT THE HEAT Local businesses offer comfort HOME MAKE OVER &

TURN to local retailers and tradespeople to stay cool and safe this summer.

Marriotts Motorcycles and Power Equipment in Leongatha has the right gear to help you reduce the risk of fire on your property.

The huge dealership has brushcutters and whipper snippers to reduce grass, plus firefighting pumps and units to help beat fires should they break out.

Marriotts stocks such quality brands as Stihl, Honda, Subaro, Yanmar, Briggs and Stratton, Trans Tank International and Silvan.

If your air-conditioner needs servicing or breaks down, call Stuart Slee Airconditioning and Refrigeration, or Jones Air Conditioning for a reliable response to have your home or business cooling in no time.

While seeking respite inside on those hot days, relax in comfort on furniture from Rigbys Homemakers in Wonthaggi.

The business is having a huge furniture clearance sale with bargains galore at 18 Inverloch Road, Wonthaggi.

Find teak and mahogany furniture, beds, bedroom furniture, display cabinets, coffee tables, dining tables, sofas, occasional furniture and bronze statues at great prices.

If you are worried about an expensive electricity bill at the end of summer, follow some energy saving tips from Sus-

tainability Victoria.

The agency recommends stopping the sun from passing through your windows to keep the heat out and reduce the need for internal cooling.

The best way to shade windows depends on which way they face, because as the sun moves through the sky, its height and angle changes.

Fixed horizontal shading devices, such as eaves and pergolas, are ideal for shading north-facing windows as they can stop the high summer sun from hitting the glass. Some pergolas have louvres that can be adjusted to provide complete shading in summer.

Adjustable external shading, such as blinds, awnings, roller-shutters and conventional shutters, are also suitable for shading north-facing windows in summer. The thicker and more opaque the material, the better the shading will be.

During summer, east-facing windows can be a major source of heat gain in the morning, while west-facing windows can be a major source of heat gain in the afternoon.

Adjustable external shading devices, such as blinds, awnings, louvres or shutters, or angled metal slats, provide the flexibility to block the low-angled morning and afternoon sun.

While eaves, pergolas and even verandas provide some benefit, they are not effective at shading east and west windows as they do not block out the lower-

angled early morning and late afternoon sun in summer.

Adjustable shading devices allow greater flexibility to make adjustments in response to changing weather conditions and comfort levels.

If you have a veranda it may be possible to install blinds on the perimeter to shade the windows, walls and veranda itself, making the whole area more comfortable in summer.

Windows that face north-east and north-west are also best shaded by adjustable vertical shading devices such as awnings or blinds.

South-facing windows receive almost no direct sunlight, so don’t require shading in summer.

Just remember cooling breezes in summer usually come from the south so they are useful for cross ventilation.

If you need to cool your home, choose the best system for your needs.

Fans, whether in the ceiling, wallmounted or portable electric, are a cheap and effective way to stay comfortable on warm, humid summer nights.

Evaporative cooling systems draw air through a moist pad, cooling and humidifying the air before it is blown through your house. These systems work best in hot, dry conditions and are less effective on humid days.

Air conditioners extract heat from the air inside your house and transfer it outside.

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Prepare livestock for fire THE Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) is urging all livestock owners to be well prepared and plan for the possibility of a fire emergency on their farms.

DEDJTR chief veterinary officer Charles Milne said a key factor in minimising the

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risk to livestock during a bush fire or on extreme fire danger days, was to identify safer areas on the farm where livestock can be moved.

“The area you choose will depend on the type of livestock you are farming and their expected behaviour during a fire,” he said.

“Other factors to consider include the terrain and accessibility of the area as well as the behaviour of the fire itself.

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thought through and can be quickly executed will minimise the risk to stock and people, especially if it has been practiced.”

Having a firebreak of some sort is imperative, using bare laneways and ploughed breaks can be effective, as can heavily grazed paddocks with low-level vegetation.

Dr Milne said low risk areas should not be next to areas of scrub or bushland and should be large enough to allow livestock to move away from a fire.

“All low risk areas should have sufficient drinking water to enable stock to remain in the area for extended periods of high fire risk and high temperatures, be protected by firebreaks and be free of leaf, twigs and bark build-up,” he said.

“Areas where there are dams and swamps are also safer.

“Stockyards have been known to successfully hold stock during a fire if protected by a firebreak. If this is your preferred option, consider using a sprinkler system because stock held together on a hot day can suffer heat stress.”

Horses should not be locked up in small areas or stables, but moved to an open paddock with minimal vegetation so they can move freely.

Dr Milne said horses are good at moving themselves to safe open areas and usually suffer minimal burns if left to do so.

“If equipment such as rugs, halters and flyveils remain on horses, the plastic may melt and metal buckles can burn the animal. Consider using rope halters for easier handling and management,” he said.

“It’s crucial not to open gates that may allow stock access to public roadways, as they will be a hazard to traffic in smoky conditions.

“If you intend to move your horse to a safer property, ensure it is done early in the day before a fire threatens, or ideally the day before.

“On days of extreme fire danger or ideally the day before, stock should be moved into lower risk areas.

“Aim to act early and don’t get caught trying to move stock as a fire approaches, listen to weather forecasts and observe your own environment to help you decide when to put your plan into action.”

For further assistance on preparing a farm and livestock bushfire plan go to www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/animalemergencyor contact the DEDJTR Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 19

BEAT THE HEAT

HOME MAKE OVER &

SES needs you THERE is no joy like the satisfaction experienced when helping others.

The Leongatha State Emergency Service offers the perfect opportunity to do just that and recipients are most grateful, as the SES responds to people in times of crisis.

The unit is seeking new members to respond to storms, floods, searches and car rescues in South Gippsland.

Wearing their iconic orange overalls, SES members are the volunteers who can patch a roof after a fierce wind, look for lost bushwalkers or free car accident victims from wreckages.

They are there to serve and help, and enjoy a raft of training opportunities that will set them up in their volunteer service and working lives.

Help on the way: Leongatha State Emergency Service volunteers respond to a vehicle accident, one of the many types of jobs members assist with.

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The SES is a recognised training organisation and such qualifications as chainsaw operation, roof top safety and vertical rope work can be transferred to other fields.

Unit controller Tony Lindhard has long been a passionate SES member and is seeking likeminded community people to join the ranks.

“All voluntary services are suffering from the change in society where people are not volunteering as much. A couple of us are getting a little bit older and we would like younger people to come through and take over,” he said.

“We are looking for between five and eight new members, as long as people are fit and willing to enough to help their community.”

The unit trains on Wednesdays at its base in Leongatha, and there are

also occasional weekend and weekday training opportunities for members to obtain more involved qualifications.

“There is nothing like helping your society when it is in a time of need,” Mr Lindhard said.

“It may be as simple as a little branch over a driveway people cannot move themselves or in the other case, where people are have to be freed from a car accident.”

Roles can be tailored to members’ interests and abilities, and they will be made to feel like they are among family.

“If you a part of a team you can conquer mountains,” Mr Lindhard said.

To find out more, phone Mr Lindhard on 0429 343 199 or see www.ses. vic.gov.au.

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PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Festive cheer ends year WONTHAGGI North Primary School wrapped up the 2015 school year with its annual Christmas concert.

Students from all year levels were involved in the production, perform-

ing songs and dances before family and friends in the school gym.

The concert was also an opportunity to say goodbye to the Grade 6 students who graduated the night before on Thursday, December 17.

Jolly trees: from left, Prep students Bailey, Thomas and Jacob were festive Christmas trees in Wonthaggi North Primary School’s Christmas concert.

Cute critters: back, from left, Hayden, Sophie, Lily and Andal, and front, from left, Banki, Bree and Sophie from the Grade 1/2 class made animal masks for the end of year Christmas concert at Wonthaggi North Primary School.

Christmas cheer: from left, Grade 1 and 2 students Phoebe, Toby and Macy were busy making Christmas decorations during their last week of school at Wonthaggi Primary School.

Children celebrate year’s success

By Tayla Kershaw AFTER a highly successful 2015, Wonthaggi Primary School (WPS) is ready for big things in the new year.

This year, the school focused strongly on developing students’ literacy skills, which will continue on in 2016.

“Our school– along with Wonthaggi North Primary School – was one out of 100 schools to receive funding for a literacy specialist and maths/science specialist. The specialists will work with different classes for two and a half

days per week,” assistant principal Vin Hally said.

“It’s one of the initiatives we have to involve our students in literacy, which we really want to keep pushing next year.”

Linking learning is a popular initiative for the school to boost its digital curriculum. More technology is being introduced to the school to help students develop skills in a modern environment.

Gadgets include iPads, laptops and the quirky Bee-Bots, which challenge children to develop problem solving skills, as well as literacy skills.

Chris Terlich and Karyn Thomas will fill the

New gadgets: from left, Grade 1 students Arieta, Oliver and Harvey said the Bee-Bots were challenging to use, but a lot of fun.

specialist roles.

Plans are in progress to do up the quadrangle and install ramps in the school.

An exciting improvement already in operation is the new solar heating for the school swimming pool, which will be used extensively when students return next year.

“Parents helped to raise $10,000 for this upgrade, which will keep the pool at a comfortable 28 to 30 degrees and help us meet successful outcomes,” principal Leonie Anstey said.

Enrolments continue to grow with 46 potential new Preps participating in the pre Prep program, which ran during term three and four.

This year the school caters for 280 students in 14 grades, and enrolments are still open for next year.

Students have enjoyed a lot of fun events in the lead up the end of the year, including the artist in residence week, surfing in Cape Paterson, a school disco, camps, sports, the breakfast program and Mini Mudda, which was a highly successful event.

Congratulations: Wonthaggi Secondary College’s Year 10 recipients of academic and special awards were, back, from left, Angelica Emery, Flynn Anderson, Kyle Ross, Jessie Burns, Nicholas Lawson, Renee Dunbar, Amanda Johnston, Lyla Wilson and Thomas Mendes. Front, from left, Jaya Dalmau, Seba Jacob, Louis Paxton and Kate Davis.

Year 10s praised THE extraordinary efforts of Wonthaggi Secondary College’s Year 10 students culminated in an exciting presentation night recently.

Held at the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club, students were awarded for their year of hard work.

More than 56 students were rec-

ognised for their efforts in academic, effort, sport, art, music, writing, leadership and attendance.

The Year 10 student of 2015 was Lyla Wilson who performed exceptionally across virtually all of her subjects.

She received awards for writing, English, literature, mathematics, hu-

manities and science.

Kyle Ross was also a major awards recipient, receiving recognition for technology, music and leadership.

Both Lyla and Kyle were also recipients of the University of Melbourne Kwong Lee Dow scholarships.

School appreciates culture GRADE 6 students of Tarwin Lower Primary School recently completed painting a mural inside the school rotunda to celebrate the Learning Stone.

In consultation with Koori educator John Murray, the students developed a mural with an indigenous theme, to support their school’s Learning Stone.

They also enjoyed the expertise of local artist Ben Everett.

The mural will be a legacy future Grade 6 students will create in years to come.

The Learning Stone helps to educate school communities and validate Koori people, past and present.

Recognising past: Tarwin Lower Primary School’s Grade 6 students, front, from left, Zale, Aurora, Bella, Cara, Ilya, Robbie and Jack with back, artist Ben Everett, acting principal Jenni Cox and Koori educator John Murray.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 21

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Square and round S

ITUATED on a 1270m2 block that’s almost square in shape, it’s the round kitchen in this sprawling family

LEONGATHA 24-26 Lee Parade Alex Scott and Staff Leongatha 5662 0922

home that marks its individuality.

Offering three bedrooms at one end of the house, there is also a multipurpose room at the other end with its own bathroom currently used as a bedroom.

There is generous living spaces separating the two ends, with the round kitchen being a focal point.

A formal lounge with open fireplace opens out onto

the covered patio.

A double garage under roof line, plus a 5m x 5m

STAR RealEstate www.thestar.com.au Real Estate Sales Joy Morgan e: joy@thestar.com.au For more information on Advertising in The Star phone Joy on 5662 2294

$399,000 4

2

lock up shed in the back yard offer plenty of storage space.

2

AUCTION

SATURDAY JANUARY 30, 2016 11am on Site - 52-54 Nyora Rd, Poowong

RENOVATE OR DEVELOP

TERMS 10% DEPOSIT BALANCE 30 DAYS

Auddino 5658 1007

73 Commercial St Korumburra

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Local people with national connections Real Estate

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Lifestyle 2.5 acres close to town C&J built 4 year old home 3 Bed, Study, 2 Bath Open plan K,L,D, formal lounge Rumpus room

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UNIT - 2 Bed, 1 Bath, 1 Car Prominent location close to CBD Private courtyard Owner occupied

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5662 4033

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$275,000

MIRBOO NORTH

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Lifestyle 12 acres on towns edge Walk to schools & CBD 3 Bed, 1 Bath, with recent updates Productive gardens & grazing land

$495,000

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For those that want the open space but do want to live out of town well this is for you. Structurally sound 4-bedroom, 2 bthrms (1 partially competed) home is calling all DYI people to show some love to this circa 1890's home that is situated on the edge of town.

The home has been re stumped for solid bone's, Baltic pine flooring, single car garage and a 9m x 15m shed. Let your imagination run wild. The 30-meter-wide frontage block offers on opportunity for subdivision (STCA) with a total area of approx. 1533m2.

Starter or Investment Unit Well maintained owner occupied 2 Bed, 1 Bath, 1 Car Expected rental $200 - $230 p/w

$229,000

Peter Bellingham 0418 515 666 pbellingham@sej.com.au

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Secluded country retreat I

F you are searching for a rural farm that provides privacy, serenity and excellent grazing land this 190 acre property in two titles could be the one you are looking for.

Located in the picturesque valley of Mardan this unique property with dual accommodation is set overlooking a beautiful spring fed water feature.

With a tiered open deck entertaining area, gorgeous bird life, the water stocked with trout and a private jetty this property has something special to offer.

The main residence has

a homely rustic feel with two separate living areas, country style kitchen and meals area all taking in the water views.

There are two spacious bedrooms with a central bathroom, study area and laundry.

In a separate dwelling this three bedroom two storey cottage provides endless opportunities whether you are looking to accommodate an additional family member, bed and breakfast accommodation or home office.

The land is undulating to hilly country with seven dams, permanent creek, hay shed, machinery shed

excellent stockyards, shelter belts and trees with the addition of undercover calf rearing facilities.

The property is currently leased with a return of $6,700 per quarter (approx).

This truly unique property has everything you could want for making that ‘tree change’ to the country to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle amongst the extensive birdlife.

Call today to arrange an appointment to inspect this great property.

MARDAN 205 MardanDumbalk Road Landmark Harcourts Leongatha Glenys Foster 0477 622 298

$1,100,000 5

3

3

AUCTION

SATURDAY JANUARY 23, 2016 AT 12NOON ON SITE- UNLESS SOLD PRIOR 15 GOLF STREET, INVERLOCH This generous allotment of 657sqm is in a most highly sought after location only minutes walk to the centre of town and Inlet beaches.

The site would be ideal for a multi level town-house development, 2 lot subdivision (STCA) or for a substantial residence. Currently the cottage presents very well and could continue to be used as a permanent home, holiday house or investment. The home is flooded with light & polished boards, the neutral palette provides a home ready to occupy or develop. House size: 69 sqm Land size: 657 sqm

Open for inspection January 2, 2016,12-12.30pm & January 9, 2016, 12-12.30pm ALE5310144 5674 1111

A/H Marni Lee Redmond 0403 525 413

Alan Steenholdt 0409 423 822

LI N ST EW IN G

LI N ST EW IN G

Andrew Newton 0402 940 320

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LI N ST EW IN G

7 A’Beckett Street Inverloch

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8 BAWDEN STREET, LEONGATHA

2 HORN STREET, LEONGATHA

• Brick Veneer 3/4 bedroom family home • Double garage + 5m x 5m Lock up shed • Large 1270m2 block, easy walk to schools

• Low maintenance home in top location • 3 bedroom - master with ensuite • 2 separate living, covered outdoor entertaining area

• Very neat 3 bedroom home • Carport + lock up garage • Genuine seller, Offers considered

• Value for money and top location • Solid 3 bedroom home • Near level block, leafy tree aspect

$399,000

$329,000

$185,000

$199,000

LI N ST EW IN G

7 HATTAM COURT, LEONGATHA

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24 LEE PARADE, LEONGATHA

375 DEVILS PINCH ROAD, TOORA NORTH

75 HILLGROVES ROAD, LEONGATHA SOUTH

290 KORUMBURRA STH RD, KORUMBURRA STH

20 RITCHIE STREET, LEONGATHA

• Beef farm in 4 Titles • 157 acres + 33 acre river title • Highly productive grazing block

• Rural lifestyle on 1 acre • 3 bedroom b/v home • Located close to town on a sealed road

• Beautiful country cottage close to town • 3 bedrooms, full ensuite, 2 lounges, study • Just under 1 acre of magnificent gardens

• Charming, fully renovated 3 bedroom home • Polished floorboards, 900mm freestanding stove • Covered rear deck, lock up garage/workshop

$445,000

$279,000

$695,000

157 ACRES

$475,000

1 ACRE

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 23

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Location is king I

T’S only a 600m walk to the Leongatha CBD so the old saying about location, location, location applies to this property.

Sitting on a 1021m2 block with rear lane access, this family home recently updated throughout boasts supremely elegant features.

All three bedrooms are equipped with built in robes and the family bathroom with a second toilet is located off the laundry.

The open plan modern kitchen generously offers gas and electric cooking, plenty of bench, cupboard and draw space, a brekky bar and electric appliances.

Separate lounge and dining areas are light and roomy with the dining area opening onto a rear deck and barbecue area.

Natural gas with instant gas hot water, a 3kw/12 panel solar system, solid fuel heating, two reverse cycle air conditioners and ceiling fans complete the glamorous interior.

The yard features plenty of storage too, with an 8m x 6m carport, a lockup garage/ workshop, and wood and chook sheds.

Established gardens and a vegetable patch add to the serene atmosphere.

The cubby house and sand pit will make sure the children are always entertained.

This is a great opportunity to purchase a home tastefully updated and ready to move in and enjoy.

For more information or to arrange a personal inspection to see everything on offer, please call Peter Bellingham at SEJ Leongatha.

We get results BARRY REDMOND 0477 622 292

LEONGATHA SEJ Real Estate Leongatha 5662 4033

3

1

2

Identity policy in force AS of early November if you are buying a property in Victoria, the Land Registry will not register the change of ownership to your name unless you have first verified your identity.

The Land Registry expects you’ll do this through your conveyancer or lawyer. But, if you don’t use the services of one, the Land Registry will still require you to verify who you are.

This will add to the cost of your purchase.

It may also cause delays to your settlement, if you leave things to the last minute.

If you have already bought and settlement of your purchase will take place on, or after November 9 you should speak with your conveyancer or lawyer in the near future to find out what you need to do to verify your identify.

If you are selling a property the Land

Registry likewise requires you to verify who you are, before it will register a change of ownership to the name of your buyer.

Just like a buyer, the Land Registry expects you’ll verify your identity through your conveyancer or lawyer. If you don’t employ one, you’ll still need to verify who you are.

If your sale is currently in progress and settlement will take place on, or after, November 9, you should speak with your conveyancer and lawyer soon to find out what needs to be done and the expense involved.

If you leave it to the last minute, the settlement of your sale could be delayed.

The Land Registry requirements do not oblige you to identify yourself when putting your property on the market, or at the time you buy.

Victoria’s estate agents and buyer’s advocates are unable to verify your identity for the Land Registry.

KRISTIN LOWE 0447 681 660

LD O S

Contact agent for location

$339,000

GLENYS FOSTER 0477 622 298

MEG EDWARDS 0429 841 555

LD O S

LEONGATHA, COMFORTABLE LIVING

BERRYS CREEK, 80 ACRES

$299,000

POA

· · ·

3 bdrm BV with sunny elevated aspects & open plan living.

Ducted gas central heating, RC/AC & 3kw solar system Located within easy walking distance to schools.

· · ·

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PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

A Star is born

Council backs school

By Brad Lester SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has helped Mirboo North Secondary College teacher Allen Riseley travel to Sydney to receive one of Australia’s most prestigious environmental awards.

The school won the Environment Minister’s Award for a Cleaner Environment at the Banksia Sustainability

RYDER Benjamin Breen was born on December 17 at Leongatha Hospital. He is the first baby for Drew Breen and Kim Critchlow of Leongatha.

FINN Lily Munro was born at Bass Coast Health on December 24 to Rebecca Blundy and Trevor Munro of San Remo.

Awards.

The honour recognised the school’s successful tree propagation and planting program.

Councillors Jim Fawcett, Don Hill and Nigel Hutchinson-Brooks provided a total of $640 to help Mr Riseley attend the awards on the school’s behalf.

Mr Riseley told council of the project’s success at a recent council public presentation session.

“I would love a corporate to support the project in other schools,” he said.

ISAAC Gaetano Isgro was born at Leongatha Hospital on December 17. He is the first child for Daniel Isgro and Carly O’Malley of Nerrena.

PAIGE Lily Maskell was born on December 23 at Leongatha Hospital. Paige is the first baby for Kane and Prue of Leongatha.

Green thinker: Mirboo North Secondary College teacher Allen Riseley with the 2015 Environment Minister’s Award the school won at the Banksia Sustainability Awards.

The companies Brambles Securities and KimberlyClark have spoken to Mr Riseley about the prospect of supporting an expansion of the project in schools.

Mayor Cr Bob Newton said the program had the potential to extend throughout Victoria.

“I do not know how to thank you enough for the work you have done for the young people of the district,” he said.

The program has entailed 50 Year 7 students raising, selling and planting trees, with proceeds returned to the school to buy equipment, as part of the Victorian Youth Advance Program.

Mirboo North Landcare Group paid the school $10,000 to raise trees to create koala habitat on 20 farms and trees have also been sold at markets.

There are now 15,000 trees in the school greenhouse and parents have volunteered to water these over summer.

“Utilising our students in our schools as a student army to revegetate the nation is what we have a chance to do,” Mr Riseley said.

Mirboo North Secondary College shared the award with the Emirates Wolgan Valley eco-retreat in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, from a pool of 71 finalists.

The school was also nominated for the Education and Sustainability award in the Banksia awards.

Wildlife carers simply amazing

By Camilla Hullick MY thoughtful husband brought home a tiny, baby ring tailed possum late one afternoon recently.

Official role: Bass MLA Brian Paynter took young leaders from Bass Coast schools on a tour of Parliament House.

Children explore parliament IT WAS a long day for 17 Bass Coast young leaders when they were taken to Parliament House and enjoyed a tour with Bass MLA Brian Paynter.

The Grade 6 students were given the title of Bass Coast Young Leaders by Bass Coast Shire Council and nominated by their teachers early in 2015.

Part of their award was to visit Parliament House and have lunch with Mr Paynter.

The students were from InverlochKongwak, Wonthaggi North, Wonthaggi, St Joseph’s, San Remo, Newhaven and Bass Valley primary schools, and Newhaven College.

Students learned how parliament worked and performed a role-play. Stu-

dents were made Premier and Leader of the Opposition, Minister for Sport and Shadow Minister for Sport.

They were then asked to put their argument forward on whether a large football game should be played in Inverloch or Wonthaggi and why.

Students got into character quickly and were pointing out the positives like parking, emergency services, the ground condition and access to the ground.

In 2016 Bass students will get an opportunity to be involved in parliamentary education sessions and role plays at the Inverloch Community Hub on Wednesday, April 20 and Thursday, April 21.

The program is free of charge and suitable for grades 5 and 6 students. Bookings are through the community education program at Parliament of Victoria.

He had spotted it in the middle of a main, country road. I immediately rang one of our wildlife carers in the local area, who was more than happy to take on this helpless, sweet, little animal, stating she already had seven others in her care and this precious possum would fit right in.

I was so relieved, as I do not know the first thing about caring for a possum, or any other wildlife for that matter, however I adore animals and want nothing more than to see orphaned, sick or injured creatures survive and return to good health.

This experience awoke in me a curiosity and I decided to find out more about these wonderful people, who voluntarily choose to give their time and energy to save, heal and return our beautiful native wildlife back to the environment.

I arranged to meet our two, lovely, local wildlife rescuers/carers, Kylie Laing from Venus Bay and Sue Moore from Tarwin Lower.

We arranged to meet for morning tea at Sue’s place and I was given a tour of her diverse shelter. I was honestly in awe.

There were confined animals, birds and reptiles everywhere, all sizes, all types, inside and outside the home.

Some were sleeping, some were calling for their feed, some were sitting quietly, recuperating, relaxed and enjoying their safe, peaceful, temporary home.

The most surprising and gorgeous animal was a tiny, baby koala that Sue suddenly pulled out from under her jumper.

She was found sitting at the bottom of a tree in the Sandy Point area with a bloody nose. Sadly it is still unknown whether she will survive, however Sue is doing her best to see she does.

Sue started caring for wildlife nine years ago after she found a baby koala.

Kylie has been a rescuer/ carer for the last 17 years after she found a baby wombat in Venus Bay. Both of these passionate women decided to explore and research wildlife shelters, and ultimately completed their training to gain their wildlife and rescue licences.

The number of wildlife needing assistance is increasing. This year on average three creatures per week have been taken in and cared for.

The amount of work, time, energy and money that is involved in running a shelter is enormous.

Some tasks include:

four hourly feeds around the clock to orphans, daily sanitisation of cages, food shopping and preparation, extensive washing and being on call 24 hours a day.

I absolutely admire and have the greatest respect for volunteers, who go above and beyond to help our unique wildlife.

Sue and Kylie both say their love for the animals is their guiding light, and when tasks seem tough and time or money is lacking, their commitment remains strong.

The community can help by building and/or maintaining enclosures, do-

nating formula, preparing food, picking up laundry and washing it, sew pouches and deliver animals to the shelters.

If you can help, ring Sue on 0429 016 695 or for the Philip Island region, call Colleen on 0409 428 162 or Kaylene on 0412 258 396.

If you stumble across and are able to transport injured or sick wildlife, confine the animal in a warm, quiet, dark place to de-stress, and ring the Wildlife Rescuing Assistance number on 1300 094 535.

Do not feed the animal. If an animal is dead, check its pouch for a baby.

Dedicated volunteers: from left, wildlife carers Sue Moore of Tarwin Lower and Kylie Laing from Venus Bay help return injured animals to health.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 25

The Good Life

Your LOCAL guide to Art and Entertainment

Coal Creek to lure geeks A FESTIVAL like no other will be held at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum at Korumburra this month.

Saturday, January 16 is the day of the popular GeekFest.

Experience Minecraft, role playing, Cosplay, competitions, workshops and Steampunk, which will appeal to people of all ages from 10am to 4.30pm.

There will be a chance to paint and take home miniatures, play floor games and take part in the AnimeLab. See The Star Queen live show, a Star Wars drag show that will explore classic moments from the films and feature spectacular costumes.

Alison Goodman will teach a Regency and Victorian finishing dance, plus there will be table top games, stall holders and a medieval display.

Workshops will inspire, with such presenters as model maker Craig Fision,

animator Shaun Freeman and author Alison Goodman, or take part in a makeup workshop.

That evening, from 7.30pm-11pm, dress up for the Kostume Ball and dance to geeky music by DJ Hemphill.

Entry to the ball only is $20, including one drink and food token, or $25 will get you entry to GeekFest and the ball, plus one drink and food token.

Entry to GeekFest only is just $10.

People wishing to view games or parents not participating are asked to pay $5.

The fun continues on Thursday, January 21 with the chance to make peg soldiers at 1.30pm for $10 per person. Children aged eight and over can learn basic craft skills and make toy soldiers, a savage barbarian or a Roman soldier.

To find out more, contact Coal Creek on 5655 1811 or see the website www. coalcreekvillage.com.au or www.facebook.com/coalcreekgeekfest

Brave knights: from left, David Hurst from Grantville, Justin Dempsey from Wonthaggi and Ben Smith from Melbourne were at Coal Creek as part of the inaugural GeekFest last year.

Rotarians celebrate 2015 ROTARY Leongatha’s annual Christmas breakup was a jovial evening at the home of president Shirley and Jim Seabrook recently.

Entry was only allowed to those

wearing a Santa hat. The event was attended by Rotarians, their partners, friends of Rotary, and the club’s current exchange students.

Guests revelled in the warm summer weather and enjoyed a Christmas spread prepared by Craig Young.

A highlight of the evening was an early appearance by Santa Claus, who rewarded good club members for their work during the year.

Rotary Leongatha will resume its community service activities this month.

Pleasant event: enjoying Rotary Leongatha’s annual Christmas breakup were Julie Curtis and Rotarian Harry Leggett.

COAL CREEK

SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2016 10.00am-4.30pm Surprise, surprise: from left, exchange students Marc Dinger, Cleo Davison and Harriett Steenholdt receive a gift from Santa Claus, watched by club president Shirley Seabrook.

All Age Event

Steampunk - Cosplay - Table Top Games - Anime Contest - Workshops - Medieval Display - Stall Holders

KOSTUME BALL 7.30pm-11.00pm

18+ and above only

Take your best Geekest costume out to play. Dress up and dance to some of the Geekest music by DJ Hemphill. Be crowned King or Queen of the ball. Enjoy a wonderful night of entertainment

www.facebook.com/coalcreekgeekfest www.coalcreekvillage.com.au

Laugh a minute: from left, having a ball at Rotary Leongatha’s annual Christmas breakup were Rotarians Bruce Grainger, Lindsay Moore and Michael Hogan.

COAL CREEK Community Park & Museum

12 Silkstone Rd Korumburra Ph 03 5655 1811

COA950144

Tickets on sale now from or via Moshtix $10 Covers entry + participation for all day events $5 Viewing games + for parents non participating $20 Kostume Ball + drink token $25 Special Edition Ticket includes Day Activities & Kostume Ball + drink token

HERE'S MY CARD

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

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PHONE: 5662 3891, 5662 2861

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AIR CONDITIONING

• KITCHENS • GENERAL REPAIRS • DOORS & WINDOW INSTALLATIONS • RENOVATIONS

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48 Yarragon Road, Leongatha

Phone 5662 3933

JSL Light Engine Repairs

Mobile: 0427 750 568 FREE QUOTES

SERVICING ALL MAKES & MODELS 4x4 Motor Bikes • Power Equipment • Lawn Mowers • Chainsaws • Brushcutters • Pumps etc.

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For a free, no obligation quote Phone Jim Newton Ph/Fax 5668 8292 Mobile 0407 505 507

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HANDYMAN SERVICES

All Jobs Handyman Services All Maintenance, Repair and Renovations Carpentry, Painting, Plastering, Welding, Doors and Windows, Fencing, Tiling, Roofing, Locks, Screens, Decks, Pergolas, Verandahs Plus More

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HERE'S MY CARD 5662 2294

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 27

Phone to get some of the action The Star's A to Z of business & trade services in Leongatha & District TREE SERVICES

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UPHOLSTERY

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PHONE ROB OR BRAD 5655 2217

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

DESK. White with white chair. $25. Ph. 5662 5141.

MIX MASTER. Kenwood. With mincer, blender and sausage filler. 90s model. $50. Ph. 5662 5141.

QUEEN BED. With flat base. $50. Ph. 0419 370 264.

TV STAND. White. $20. Ph. 0419 370 264.

UNIFORM. Newhaven year 9 uniform.

Keen DriLex boots. Size 9. $40. Ph. 0418 126 103.

STEAM CLEANER. Shark portable steam pocket system cleaner. New in box $50. Phone 5664 0037 COT. Wooden. Good condition. Mattress included. $50. Ph. 0427 357 867. Mirboo North.

COT. Wooden. Good condition. Height adjustable. $50. Ph. 0427 357 867.

Mirboo North ROLLER SKATES. Crazy brand. Size junior 13. Brand new. Still in box. $25. ph. 0409 641 300 TYRES. Four. With rims & hubcaps. Will suit Honda Jazz. 50% tread. $40. ph.

0427 444 601.

DOWNLIGHTS. Five. 90mm flush mount. screw in globes. $10. ph. 0427 444 601.

POOL CANOPY. Kiddisafe. For toddler pool. 240x240x160. $25. Ph. 0487 670 385.

DINING ROOM CABINET. 5’x2’. 2 glass doors. 2 wooden doors.$50. Ph. 5672 2032.

DOLL HOUSE. with accessories. $50.

Ph. 0427 928 585.

FOWLER BOTTLES. 2 dozen. with stainless steel lids. $50 the lot. No 31.

Ph. 0427 103 496.

GLORY BOX. 1940s style. Glass doors have frosted pattern. Good condition. $50. Ph. 0408 344 470.

LADIES BIKE. Pink. Malvern star. Very good condition. $30. Ph. 5662 2212.

MOTORCROSS BOOTS. Maverick. Size 11. hardly used. $50 Ph. 5662 4507.

CURTAIN RODS. 3x dark wooden. 66 rings, brackets & clips. Included. Excellent condition. $45. Ph. 0419 624 199.

GIRLS QUALITY CLOTHING. Excellent condition. Sizes 3-11. More than 50 pieces. $45. Ph. 0400 512 364.

WASHING MACHINE. Top load Simpson Genesis 505. In working order. $50. Ph. 0418 995 931.

FILING CABINET. 3 drawers. Grey.

Good condition. $30. Ph. 0418 995 931.

WOODEN DOLLS HOUSE. With some furniture. Excellent condition. $50. Ph. 0400 512 364.

DRAUGHTSMAN’S TABLE. 790x1050.

Adjustable to any angle. Includes T-square. $35. ph. 0437 811 201.

LADIES SHOES. New. Hush Puppies & Homy Ped. 9½ - 41. $50. Ph. 5668 1695.

PATIO BLINDS. New in box. 1.5m wide. $50. Ph. 0427 506 446.

CHILDREN’S CHAIRS & TABLES. Timber. $30. Ph. 5663 2327.

TABLE. Glass top. Grey metal frame.

Attractive. Good condition. 120x40.5x69. $45. ph. 0429 176 946.

OPALS. Small collection of solid opals. $50 the lot. Ph. 5672 2663.

SOFA LOUNGE. 3 seater. As new. tapestry material. $50. Ph. 5662 3278.

WATCHES. A collection of battery watches and magnetic jewellery in excellent condition. $50 the lot. Ph. 5672 2663.

BAR FRIDGE. National N.R72P. $50. Ph. 5662 2518.

TENT. Apolla. New. 3 person dome tent. $20. Ph. 5662 2518.

RACHET TIE DOWN STRAPS. 2500kg rating. As new. $30 for two. Leongatha.

Ph. 0401 713 566.

WHEELIE BIN. 240litres. Good condition. $30. Leongatha. Ph. 0401 713 566.

CORDLESS PHONE. Digital. Base station and 2 hand pieces. $50. Ph. 0407 825 488.

BEDSIDE TABLES. Two. White pipe with 2 glass shelves on each one. Excellent condition. $25 each. Ph. 5668 8160.

EXERCISE BIKE. $40. Ph. 0439 931 996.

NEST TABLES. Three. Top long, two fit underneath. Excellent condition. $45. Ph. 5662 2851.

UNIVERSAL ROOF RACK. With brackets. $50. ph. 0427 878 572.

EXERCISE AB LOUNGE 2. $50. Ph. 0427 878 572.

WALL CANDLE HOLDER. two. Medium.

Black coated. Love heart shape metal.

Great condition. $10. Ph. 0487 238 907.

Leongatha CLUB CHAIRS. Leather look. Brown. As new. One with foot stool. $50 the lot. Ph. 0407 444 051.

BASKETBALL RING. Full size. On stand to be dyna bolted to concrete floor. $25.

Ph. 5668 8180.

TABLE/BEDSIDE LAMPS. Two. Cut glass/brass base. cream shades. 64cm high. good condition. $30 for pair. Ph. 0418 727 616.

Advertisements must be received at The Star by Friday 12 noon *The Star reserves the right to refuse any advertisement PRIVATE ADVERTISEMENTS ONLY - NO BUSINESSES Max. 2 advs. per week - Single phone number for contact NOTE: No advertisements for animals, birds or fish accepted

MAXIMUM 15 WORDS STAR OFFICE - 36 McCARTIN STREET, LEONGATHA EMAIL : bagabargain@thestar.com.au

OR PHONE :

5662 5555

NEED CASH? *Cash Loans $500 to $2000

Vic. Boat Licence with Jetski endorsement

For 6, 8 or 12 months Our clients include: * Wage earners * Centrelink clients Poor Credit History considered CALL

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public notices

situations vacant

Latrobe Community Health Service (LCHS) is one of the largest community health providers in Victoria. We provide professional and career development, salary packaging, an employee assistance program, work life balance and much more.

The friendly local alternative.

We come to you!

We are currently offering the following career opportunity:

Australian Credit Licence 428415.

ABN 30 187 881 857 Responsible lending conditions apply

Regional Pharmacotherapy Network Coordinator (20172)

public notices

We are offering an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, experienced professional to cover a maternity leave position to lead our newly funded Area Based Pharmacotherapy Network (PABN) located in Gippsland.

Maternity relief position

The Coordinator will continue to develop close linkages between pharmacotherapy clients, General Practitioners (GP’s), dispensing pharmacies and other primary care services, while ensuring effective and efficient systems and processes to support high quality service delivery.

This position would be suitable for someone with a relevant tertiary qualification in a health related field, who possesses strong leadership qualities, extensive experience in project work including working with GP’s and other primary and tertiary care services. An understanding of and commitment to a harm reduction framework in the context of substance use will be highly valued.

For more information please contact Elizabeth Plunkett or Alison Skeldon on 1800 242 696.

Applications will close Friday 8 January 2016.

‘SUNSHINE & SHADOWS’ The magnificent art of Di & John Koenders Wildlife & Landscapes

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TOTAL VALUE OF ITEMS PER ADVERT MUST NOT EXCEED $50

MARINE LICENCE COURSE

situations vacant

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are encouraged to apply • For further information and copies of each position description visit our careers page www.lchs.com.au/careers • Applicants must address the Selection Criteria and lodge their application online.

• No late or hard copy applications will be accepted.

On now until Tuesday JANUARY 26, 2016 (including ALL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS)

Fairbank Rd, Arawata

Phone: 0428 598 262 Open Daily: 11am to 5pm Fully Air-conditioned for your comfort

Sub Contract Carpenters ArchiBlox combines the very best of sustainable modular design with sophisticated pre-fabrication. We create inspiring prefabricated homes and buildings offering flexible design solutions for any dwelling need.

Due to a high demand for our award winning product, we are currently looking for sub contract carpenters to join our energetic team at our Wonthaggi facility.

If you have a passion for innovative architect designed building and want to be part of our construction team, we are looking for you.

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situations vacant

situations vacant

To apply for this position please send your resumé to Facility Manager Kim O’Connor via email kim@archiblox.com.au.

All applications will be treated in confidence.

Casual Teaching Opportunities

situations vacant DAIRY FARM WORKER Full time, experienced, for milking, tractor work and maintenance, in Leongatha area. Must be available for alternate weekends dairypos@mail.com

Job Reference No. 1580 Federation Training is calling for expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced individuals interested in joining our casual teaching pool, in the following areas: • Automotive • Carpentry & Joinery • Civil Construction • Electrotechnology • Plumbing • Process Plant

for sale

For specific enquiries relating to these positions please contact Ryan Evans, Education Manager on 0402 975 962.

Book Exchange

100th Birthday!

Applications close on Monday, 18th January 2016.

Further information can be obtained from www.federationtraining.edu.au or by contacting the Human Resources Department on (03) 5120 4517. Applicants must apply online. No late or hard copy applications will be accepted.

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public notices

1 McBride Ave.Wonthaggi Like us on facebook NATIONAL PROVIDER NUMBER 0417

Ph 5672 4790

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 29

situations vacant

situations vacant

garage sales

marriage celebrant PAM HERRALD

GARAGE SALE Jenny Milkins 5662 2553 0438 097 181

PART TIME TIMBER YARD TEAM MEMBER Capeview Hardware M10 - Cowes A Part Time position as a Timber Yard Team Member exists in our Cowes store.

You will be required to offer exceptional customer service and a forklift licence would be an added advantage to this position.

To be successful in this position you must: • Be willing to work weekends • Have an approachable and friendly nature • Have strong customer focus • Be team orientated • Be able to handle regular physical work (e.g. heavy lifting) • Current forklift ticket desirable Knowledge of timber and timber products will be an advantage.

If you believe you have the qualities we are looking for, you are invited to apply in writing

by Friday 15th January to: Dale Key, Store Manager, Capeview Mitre10, 220 Settlement Road, Cowes, 3922 or by email dale.key@cv-m10.com.au

for sale

MOWERS We stock the largest range of New push and ride-on mowers in South Gippsland, including - Honda,Victa, Greenfield, Deutscher, Cub Cadet, MTD, Masport, Toro, Yard Machines & Rover from $149.

Professional repairs and service for ALL mower makes and models.

Also stocking a large range of parts and accessories.

We also have a large range of secondhand mowers available.

for sale PUPS Smithfield, 956 000 004 319 157, 956 000 004 310 450. Call Allan 0438661369.

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each, 200x75x3.0 $ 20.90 each.

Free delivery for pack lots.

Phone Joe 0417-530662.

TIMBER Kiln dried blackwood, silver wattle, cypress, celery top pine, most sizes for furniture and craft, also slabs and structural pine. Ph: 56812261.

Cnr Allison & South Gippsland Hwy, Leongatha. L.M.C.T. 2714

Ph: 5662 2028

www.marriottsmpe.com.au

Gypsy Chickens ISA BROWN POINT OF LAY HENS $20 EACH Can supply large numbers of 1 - 1000+ All vaccinated and wormed Please call to arrange pick up or FREE DELIVERY Located in Kongwak 0477 616 192 CARAVAN STORAGE Secure undercover, Korumburra. Don: 0427625158.

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

FREEZER Fisher & Paykel 275 litres, in very good condition, $300 ONO. Ph: 0401-603525.

HAYMAN REESE towing kit complete. New, still in box, $450. Ph: 5664-0037.

LUCERNE and grass hay, barley straw, in big squares and rounds. Lucerne silage in rounds. Freight available.

Ph: 0427-505780.

NEW HEN HOUSES - suit 6 to 7 hens, $400. 56642443.

All areas - 5672 3123 jenny_milkins@hotmail.com

$27.50 GARAGE SALE KIT

Weddings ~ Funerals ~ Namings

KIT INCLUDES 5cm x S/C advert (valued at $33.00) • 2 x A4 Garage Sale Signs • Garage Sale Tips (dos and don’ts) • Sheet of Price Stickers • Star Carry Bag

Total package valued at $41 ADVERTISE by calling 5662 5555 or emailing classifieds@thestar.com.au or call in to 36 McCartin Street LEONGATHA to pick up your kit when you place your advertisement

GARAGE SALE 57 Cuttriss Street Inverloch SATURDAY & SUNDAY January 9 & 10 8am - 4pm Bookcases, kitchenware, antiques, garden equipment and much, much more “Call by and say gidday”

used vehicles Affordable cars at drive away prices

for rent CHEAP CENTRAL WONTHAGGI SHOP or office. Ph: 0408-981819.

livestock MOTORCYCLES & POWER EQUIPMENT

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

PULLETS Wednesday, January 20 Commercial crossbreds.

Vaccinated.

12wk (Black, Red, White, Isa Brown) $17 Available from Elders Past., Leongatha

11am Phone 5662 3523 to order now (Brian Larkin Poultry)

BULLS for hire or for sale.

Friesian, Angus, Hereford, Limo or Jersey. All sound young bulls. Hire or sale.

Phone 0447-331762.

POLL DORSET and Border Leicester rams, flock registered, Bruccellosis accredited, well bred from established stud. Can deliver from $180. 0428356376.

message of hope PHILIPPIANS 1:6 He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. God is not finished with you yet!

thanks MANY thanks to my family, relations and all my wonderful friends, and all who sent me cards, flowers, phone calls and gifts for my 90th Birthday celebration.

Would all please accept this as a personal thank you.

Gwen Helliwell.

SG CHEAPEST CARS Geary Road Leongatha LMCT 10804

Phone Judy or Geoff 0428 920 095 for full range of vehicles Or visit: www.sgcheapestcars.com NOTE: drive away means no more to pay.

All on road costs paid.

wanted to buy ANY OLD farm four wheelers, good or bad, 4WDs or trucks. Will pay cash. Phone Matt 0401194601.

DATSUN SKYLINE wanted, 1973-1985, 240km, C210, MR30, any condition. Pay cash. 0422076298.

bereavement thanks HIBBIT - Jenny.

29.12.1954 - 11.12.2015 Mike Hibbit and family wish to thank everyone who has supported us through a two year battle with cancer. There are too many to name but includes friends, Ambulance Victoria, Venus Bay CERT, the local community, all hospital staff and doctors, the Tarwin Lower Uniting Church, the Venus Bay Community Centre, Handleys Funeral Service, and the many who came to celebrate Jenny’s amazing life. A big thank you for all the cards of sympathy and condolences.

She will be sadly missed.

Wendy Rutjens 0429 688 123

e: rutjenswendy@gmail.com

deaths COLEMAN - Elizabeth Frances.

A good friend for more than 40 years, will certainly be missed.

Gaye and Geoff Hutchinson.

HUTTON - Ronald George.

(3796913) The President and members of Leongatha RSL regret the passing of their esteemed member and extend deepest sympathy to the family.

Lest We Forget MORRIS (Smith) - Freda Marion.

16.06.1920 - 04.01.2016 Daughter of Ernest and Susan Smith.

Sister of Les (dec), Edna (dec), Lil, Ken, Arch (dec), Harry (dec), Eric (dec), Wal (dec), Flo, Gladys, and families.

Mother of Pam, Val, Nola, David, Neville, Glenn (dec), and families.

Now at peace.

MORRIS (Smith) - Freda Marion.

16.6.1920 - 4.1.2016 Much loved mother of Pam and partner Graeme.

Grandmother of Sharon, Teresa, Susan, James, Jason, and partners.

Grandmother of Jasmine, Gabriella, Jessica, Sam, Molly and Noah.

You were one in a million.

With love to Mum. There’s no love I prize so much as yours. I realise the debt I owe you, and I send my thanks and love that will not end.

MORRIS Freda (Hengstberger nee Smith).

We have so many happy memories, you will be forever in our hearts.

Loved mother of Nola and Val, and their families.

MORRIS - Freda.

Loved and cherished mother of David and Chris.

Adored granmother of Brett, Nikarla, Jodie, Peter, Adam and Kylie.

Great granmother to Macen, Darcy, Ellie and Lainey.

Rest in peace Mum. MORRIS - Freda.

In loving memory of Mum, always in our thoughts.

Neville, Jenny, grandchildren Sarah, Rowena, Matt and Jody.

Great grandchildren Nakita, Toby, Jordyn, Lillie and Brock.

MORRIS - Freda.

Beloved Granma of Sharon, Teresa, Susan, James and Jason.

Great Granma of Jessica, Sam, Jasmine, Gabriella, Molly and Noah.

Thanks for being you: for the love, the childhood fun, your home cooking, the endless cuppas, the chats and all the wonderful memories. xox

deaths STEWART Kingsley James.

Fourth child of Jim and Jean Stewart.

Loved brother of David, Janet, Robin, Gordon and Andrew, also their partners, nieces and nephews, and cousins.

STEWART Kingsley James.

It is with deep regret that we have to say goodbye to our dear friend and work colleague after 18 years of sharing our working lives.

Kingsley managed our spare parts department, always willing to help and determined to get what was needed.

A good man who will be sorely missed.

Our deepest sympathies to Diane and family.

Rest in peace.

Chapman Machinery Service. Mark, Marita, Joshua, Cameron, Elyse, Gavan, Adam, Jordan, Dan, Frank, Peter, Lore, Wade, Aaron, Daryl and Dave.

STEWART - Kingsley.

South Gippsland Shire Brass Band regrets the passing of our past member Kingsley.

Musician, committee member, treasurer, friend, and staunch supporter of the band.

Sincere condolences Diane and family.

to

STEWART - Kingsley.

The Leongatha Town Cricket Club extends its condolences to Diane, James and the Stewart family on the passing of Kingsley, a former great player and life member of our club.

deaths

2016/17 Junior Country Week Leongatha bound THE LDCA Junior Country Week held a presentation night at Scorpion Park, Leongatha on Friday, January 1.

Mitchell Clark of Nerrena, a player who has come through the Junior program for Leongatha and Gippsland Cricket and now represents LDCA at Country Week and GCL, spoke to the boys about the privilege of representing the association and the enjoyment and friendships gained from being involved in the week.

Before a large turnout of parents, Mitchell presented all the players with their LDCA caps and clothing which followed a training run.

We thank Town Cricket Club for the use of its facilities, much appreciated.

Junior Country Week this year is in Traralgon over five days, but the following two years the Leongatha association will host the week long carnival.

If any business, person or community group is interested in being involved as a sponsor or willing to help, out please contact Geoff Wyatt 5659 8225.

The LDCA will host

deaths

Paul & Margaret Beck proprietors Caring for our Community, personal dignified service to all areas 5662 2717 Pre-need Funeral Plans available Office and Chapel: 24 Anderson Street, Leongatha hfs1@vic.australis.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

Scott and Sharon Anderson With care & dignity we serve South Gippsland and Phillip Island Main Office: WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH 176-178 Graham Street, Wonthaggi 3995 email: randm33@bigpond.net.au

5672 1074 Fax: 5672 1747

PHILLIP ISLAND 5952 5171 15 Warley Avenue, Cowes 3922 (by appointment only) Pre-paid & pre-arranged funeral plans available CARING & PERSONAL 24 HOUR SERVICE www.handleyandandersonfunerals.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

five other associations with 140 cricketers plus managers, coaches, parents and grandparents.

This year we are fielding an Under 14 and 15’s team and from practice games and training they look to be very competitive and there will be some interesting games ahead.

We are staying at Traralgon South where the facilities are excellent for this type of cricket carnival with plenty of various sporting facilities available to keep them amused.

This week is a tremendous opportunity for the boys to work on their skills and develop life long friendships and a week they will remember for the rest of their lives.

Scores will be on My Cricket each night under Gippsland Cricket Region 7 and there will be some coverage I believe on local TV. Grounds for Junior Country Week 2015/2016 season: Under 15 (10am): Monday, January 4, LDCA v Traralgon (Yinnar 1).

Tuesday, January 5, Warragul v LDCA (Glengarry 1).

Wednesday, January 6, LDCA v Central Gippsland (Apex Park map 696 E5 - Gilmour St).

Thursday, January 7, Bairnsdale v LDCA (Traralgon South - John Black Reserve).

Friday, January 8, LDCA v Sale Maffra (Traralgon South - John Black Reserve).

Under 14 (10.15am): Monday, January 4, LDCA v Traralgon (Glengarry 2).

Tuesday, January 5, Warragul v LDCA (Glengarry 2).

Wednesday, January 6, LDCA v Central Gippsland (Jack Maskrey Reserve, map 696 E4 - Douglas Parade).

Thursday, January 7, Bairnsdale v LDCA (Jack Maskrey Reserve, map 696 E4 – Douglas Parade).

Friday, January 8, LDCA v Sale Maffra (Jack Canavan Reserve, map 696 E4 – Douglas Parade).

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

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Taking shape: Cindy and Dan Knee with baby daughter Lexie at the Franklin River revegetation talk with West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s Matt Bowler and Dairy Australia’s Gillian Hayman.

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CLEARING SALE FRIDAY JANUARY 15 AT 10AM A/C R & F Argento (property sold) 20 Grip Rd, Toora.

Full details next issue.

Outside entries welcome.

Contact: Simon Henderson.

Phone 0428 740 750 Email: si@dcsi.net.au phelan@henderson.com DAV8890020

Restoring rivers pays off JUST a few steps away from the lush dairy pastures of Dan and Cindy Knee’s farm is a river environment of rare beauty and genuine significance.

The Franklin River’s journey through the heart of the Toora North farm is just a fraction of a 35 kilometre course that snakes its way down from the Strzelecki Ranges to Corner Inlet in the shadow of Wilsons Promontory.

The reason the Knee family’s stretch of river is so important is that it represents the final link in a 25km long chain of revegetated riparian environment that runs along the Franklin from the forest to the sea.

Once a stand of basket willows is removed and replaced with native vegetation, the dreams and hard

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Landcare in West Gippsland Green Carpet event, said the final stage of the revegetation project was satisfying for all involved.

“Dad was asking five years ago for it to be done, but we didn’t get anywhere until this year, so it’s good it’s happening now. It’s pretty exciting,” he said.

“I guess growing up as a kid we didn’t realise quite what we had. It is a rather nice place to live and it makes you feel great when people come and say that it’s a really nice farm.”

Over the past 10 years, more than 25 kilometres of the 35 lower kilometres of the Franklin River has been fenced off and revegetated, meaning almost the entire length of the river is now protected from farm animals.

“The Franklin is one catchment that we might be able to say in a few years’ time is fully restored. That’s a big story to tell and is testa-

STORE SALE VLE - LEONGATHA 750

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work of many people in the catchment will finally come to fruition.

For the young farming couple, it’s the culmination of a community and family effort that started before Dan was even born.

Dan’s parents Bruce and Rae have been working for years with organisations like Landcare and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA), as well as GippsDairy’s GipRip project, to turn their once degraded river frontage into something truly special.

Having taken over the farm last year, Dan and Cindy have picked up the torch of responsible land stewardship and are seen as inspiring examples of young, sustainable farmers who are protecting Corner Inlet through best practice grazing, nutrient, effluent and water management on their property.

Dan, named as one of five Young Landcarer recipients as part of the 2015

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ment to the commitment of local landholders,” WGCMA delivery team leader Matt Bowler said.

“In rehabilitating those areas it creates wildlife corridors, shade and shelter, so it’s a big thing that the farmers can benefit from as well.”

The flow on effects of the on-farm work have been felt in Corner inlet, which the Franklin River feeds into.

Matt said the work being done in recent decades was helping to reverse the problems caused by widespread clearing in pioneer days.

“Early clearing exposed soils which were washed down into Corner Inlet,” he said.

“The habitat in Corner Inlet is internationally significant and is an asset for the community with important bird, fish and large seagrass communities, and the inlet supports a productive fishing industry.

“So revegetation work in the Franklin catchment is a win for the farms with productivity, shade, shelter and getting cattle out of the river, and it’s a win for the community with better water quality to protect downstream marine habitats.”

Dairy Australia’s Gippsland land, water and carbon consultant, Gillian Hayman, said the Franklin River project had shown what can be achieved through a collaborative approach.

She said Landcare, WGCMA, GippsDairy and Dairy Australia have been among those helping landholders and the local community achieve a significant result with the river revegetation.

The Knee farm, in particular, is seen as a great example of partnerships and

persistence paying off in the long term.

“Dan and Cindy – and before them Bruce and Rae Knee – have done a particularly good job over a number of decades in protecting the Franklin River,” Gillian said.

“They’ve assisted the CMA with willow removal, fencing off of many kilometres of waterways and they’ve certainly seen the benefits of that in terms of water quality, cattle out of rivers and the benefits of getting the vegetation back on farm.”

For dairy farmers, running their business means keeping the books in the black, so any environmental work also has to make financial sense.

Dan’s attitude is that growing trees for shelter and keeping stock out of the river was not only a win for the environment, but also good news for his bank balance.

“It works with the business,” he said.

“A happy cow is a cow that is going to make you money.”

It’s an attitude that doesn’t surprise Matt, who hears similar comments from the other “switchedon” farmers that he works with.

“What I’ve found is that often the best farmers in an economic sense are the most progressive in an environmental sense as well,” he said.

“They understand where their money is made and they understand their money isn’t made from cattle wandering around in the creek and getting lost in gullies.”

For more information on protecting farm land or river environments contact Matt Bowler at the WGCMA on 1300 094 262.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 31

| SPORT

thestar.com.au

Waratah nippers hit the surf WARATAH Beach Surf Life Saving Club nippers enjoyed the second day of their season on New Year’s Day last Friday.

As well as having fun the nippers also learn a lot about safety in the water and helping others in need.

According to nippers junior activities coordinator Natalie Ashdown, in her second year in the post, this year some 130 children are registered with hopes of building numbers near the 168 mark achieved last year.

A special New Year’s Day twilight nippers had plenty of keen participants out in the water.

“This year we are hoping to stretch the senior Under 12 to Under 14 age group

by undertaking a resuscitation certificate, doing basic first aid, and proper tube rescues,” Mrs Ashdown said.

“We are also delighted to welcome 12 new Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) participants; all came through the nipper program, which is great.”

“With the older nippers doing some extra courses this year it is all about longevity in the program right through to SRC and bronze.”

With a pizza van at the club all this week and a curry van all next week, visitors and members alike are encouraged to get around the club by enjoying a meal, taking it up to the clubrooms, have a drink and enjoy the spectacular views of the surf.

Nipper briefing: having a chat to some of the Waratah nippers prior to hitting the beach on New Year’s Day on Friday was junior activities co-ordinator Natalie Ashdown.

Volunteers: the surf rescue certificate helpers were on hand to help the young nippers in the event of rough weather, from left, Hayley Duncan, Josie Andrighetti, Kieran Hesse, Aaron Farrell (Fish Creek), Lochie Brooks, and Hamish Garrard.

Beach patrol: helping out on New Year’s Day in the patrol tower were, from left, Shenay McIntyre, Lucas Osborn and Abbey Tucker who have each done their bronze.

New friends: nippers is also a chance to meet new friends. Lydia Giles and Chloe Fox catch up again for the action on New Year’s Day last Friday.

We love nippers: the Under 9 nippers really enjoy the program and so do the age group helpers!

Incoming tide: moving the patrol marker as the tide comes in is Abbey Tucker.

Lunch break: enjoying some fish and chips in the park during a break in patrol duties at Sandy Point were Bridget Duncan, left, and Kate Wilkinson, right.

Rescue help: the girls and boys in orange are the holders of Surf Rescue Certificates and help out with the running of the nippers program both in and out of the water.

Foster golf results BARREN conditions greeted golfers on the course this week.

Seniors: reaching the senior year of their nippers program are, from left, Saskia Ritman, Bridie Swingler, Millie Hartung and Amy Jamieson.

New nippers: enjoying their first year of nippers in the flag event were, from left, Ella, Otto, Mitchell and Henry.

Lots of run meant scoring was very good throughout the entire week.

Tuesday, December 29 was a Men’s Stableford with a fantastic field turning out for the final Tuesday of the year.

The A Grade winner was Peter Dight with 40.

In B Grade Simon Barwick was the eventual winner with 41.

DTL: John Simpson 40, Kevin Witheridge 39, Andrew Naylor 38, Athol McGrath 38, Kevin Da Silveira 38.

NTP: Phil Schofield, Andrew Naylor.

Wednesday, December 30 was Ladies’ Stableford.

The winner was Mary Ellis with 42.

DTL: Alayne McKenzie 36, Maxine Symmons 36, Barb Britten 36.

NTP: Barb Britten.

Thursday, December 31 was a Men’s Stableford.

The winner was Harold Sta Maria

with 41.

DTL: Peter Dight 40, Stuart Canning 39, Garry Buckland 38.

NTP: Peter Dight.

Friday, January 1 was a Men’s Stableford.

The winner of the chook this week was Stuart Canning with 19.

DTL: Trevor Jones 18, Brenton McKenzie 18, P Gilder 18.

NTP: Brenton McKenzie Saturday, January 2 was the Monthly Medal Stroke, O’Connell Motors Trophy.

The winner of A Grade was Phil Schofield with an impressive 81-16-65.

The B Grade and Medal winner was Jack Appel with a superb 90-29-61.

DTL: Greg Cox 77-11-66, Tony Vanin 74-7-67, Shaun Chaseling 81-14-67, Mick Malady 94-26-68, George Draeger 100-31-69, Kevin DaSilveira 10435-69, John Simpson 99-29-70, Simon Barwick 91-20-71, Peter Dight 80-9-71.

NTP: Trevor Jones, Jim Parry, Paul Robertson, Geoff Eddy and Tony Vanin.

Members and golfers draws The Friday night members draw was won by Anthony Conabere, but unfortunately he wasn’t present at the club to collect the $900.

The draw will now jackpot to $950 this week.

Julie Letcher had her name drawn out in the Saturday evening members’ draw but unfortunately she was not present to collect the $300.

The draw now jackpots to $320 next week.

Coming Events: Tuesday, January 5 Stableford; Wednesday, January 6 Stableford summer competition; Thursday, January 7 Par; Friday, January 8 Stableford and Friday Friendly 9 Hole Chook Run Back Nine. Members Draw 7pm – 8:30pm $950 Jackpot; Saturday, January 9 Sandy Point Challenge Stableford, Ray Stewart Trophy and Members Draw at 5:30pm; and Sunday, January 10 Prom Country Aged Care Charity Golf Day three man Ambrose. Assemble at 10am for a 10.30 start.

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

SPORT |

thestar.com.au

Surf life savers call for help THE Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club has been attracting new members and upskilling current lifesavers, with more than

40 lifesaving awards achieved already this season.

The nippers program began on December 27, with more than 180 children

Surf’s up: Sofia Perica (left) and Anna Curran had a ball while taking part in Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s nippers program last Wednesday.

aged five to 13 taking part.

The community is urged to support the club as it struggles to raise sufficient funds to cope with the increased number of tourists in the region, club president Craig Watson said.

“We hold Saturday night dinners at the clubhouse throughout January, as well as tin rattles and additional fundraisers, but with the burden of building and equipment maintenance, crippling insurances and the purchase of new lifesaving resources, we find it very difficult to raise sufficient funds,” Mr Watson said.

“We are currently exploring ways to increase funding via South Gippsland Shire Council

Got it: Henry Turner proves just too quick for Macayla Newey in the flag chase during the nippers program run by Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club last Wednesday.

and local business, but operate in a very competitive space.”

Mr Watson supporting surf lifesaving offered potential sponsors a unique opportunity.

“We are the only volunteer emergency service that also operates as a fully fledged sporting organisation,” he said.

“We train kids to save lives and to possibly go on to represent Australia at Olympic Games in a variety of events from swimming to athletics, to rowing and canoeing.”

To make contact, or learn more about the club visit www.vbslsc.org.au

Got it: JP Patterson secures the flag while taking part in nippers at Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club on Wednesday.

Rising talent: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s nippers, front, from left, Oliver Greeves, Alex Vandermeer and Zac Barnett join with other participants and leaders at beach one last Wednesday.

• South Gippsland Yacht Club

Sailors enjoy perfect weather IT is often said that a week is a long time in politics which can produce interesting outcomes.

We could say the same about the sailing and weather conditions on Anderson’s Inlet at Inverloch from the start of the sailing series commencing on December 27 and concluding on New Year’s Eve. Each of the four sailing days revealed many and varied sailors competing for the well

earned prizes on almost perfect sailing days with great beach weather.

Naturally yacht club members were interested in sailing to the best of their ability.

Better conditions could hardly have been ordered: water temperatures 19 to 20 degrees celcius and reasonable winds from the southwest to west, although on the last day, northwest winds prevailed and tried to spoil the party.

Overall, this series attracted around 20 yachts over the four days, including visitors from Black Rock Yacht Club.

It was also pleasing to see many junior sailors either sailing or in training.

The A Division winner was Shaun Freeman sailing a Windrush catamaran with Rob McNair also sailing a Windrush catamaran, second.

The B Division winner was Ivan Abbott sailing an Impulse,

second was John Fowler sailing a Laser, third was John Honeybone sailing a Sabre and fourth was Paula Horton sailing a Laser.

Over the next few weeks, SGYC will be continuing with the Commodore’ Cup Series having twilight sails on Tuesday nights at 6pm and the Tarwin River Marathon sail on Sunday, January 17.

New members are always welcome.

B Grade: Ivan Abbot is congratulated by yacht club commodore Allan Driver with club member Gary Reeves looking on in the foreground.

A Grade: the winning sailor, Shaun Freeman, is congratulated by yacht club commodore Allan Driver.

Third place: Paula Horton sailing a laser came in behind Abbot and Fowler and is congratulated by yacht club commodore Allan Driver.

Runner-up: John Fowler was second across the line in B Grade and is congratulated by yacht club commodore Allan Driver with club member Gary Reeves looking on in the foreground.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 33

GOLF | SPORT

thestar.com.au Wonthaggi I HOPE everyone had a great Christmas and a fantastic new year.

From now on the newspaper report will feature all weekly and weekend event results.

Our men’s nine hole competition was won by R. Hender 23 points (15 players).

Balls down the line: V. Tuddenham 21, H. Mackind-

er 21, K. Curran 20.

Our men’s weekly competition had 37 players.

Winner was I. McDonald 43 points.

Balls down the line: W. Eyers, G. Turner 43; T. Salmon, J. Haajes, J. Burke, N. Beale 41; E. Vanagtmaal 39.

Nearest the pin 17th G. Linguey. Eagle 7th D. Crellin.

On Saturday we played our January monthly medal

with a field of 100 players.

A Grade winner was G. Turner 69 net, B Grade J. Grenville 67 net, C Grade and monthly medal D. Paproth 66 net.

Balls down the line: A. Wright 66, R. Geyer 67, Inoke 68, A. Yann, Hoots, K. Curran, K. Bayley, A. Ireland, P. Howey 69; S. Brann, G. Sutherland, I. McDonald, S. Laing, P. Dell, G. Rodgers, K. Ridout 70; J. Walsh, S.

Tiziani, J. Sartori, B. Fennell 71.

Nearest the pin: 2nd D. Brown, 8th G. Hennequin, 13th P. Dell, 17th R. Sheean.

Putting: D. Crellin.

Medal of medalists champion Inoke Baudonaro 68 net.

Great to see so many names down for men’s pennant, however we always want more, so if you wish to play please put your name on the sheet in the pro shop.

Also to all juniors who wish to play junior pennant which begins middle of February, please see Beau Vanagtmaal.

Have a great week and I will see you on Saturday.

Wonthaggi ladies

Power grouping: back from left, Russel Thomas, Paul Capper, Paul LePage, Michael Darmanin and Coral Gray. Front from left, Peter Gilder, Sue Straw, Heather McCaughan, Wendy Parker and Irene Holm. Despite there being no rain to speak of the course was in its usual great condition which was a credit to all those who helped get it ready for Hammo’s power pod day.

Meeniyan ONE hundred and ten players took to the field in the 22nd annual Hammo’s power pod day, a four person Ambrose event.

A huge thank you goes to the sponsors Nev and Joy Ramsay for their continued sponsorship of this great day.

The winners of the main

event were Peter Gilder, Paul LePage, Heather McCaughan and Sue Straw with 51.125 net. Runners up were Craig Buckland, Chris Buckland, Nick Buckland and Michael Darmanin with 53.875 net.

The ladies’ team winners on a count back were Irene Holm, Wendy Parker, Dot Elliott and Coral Gray with 63.5 net.

TIDES Here is an easy guide to tides in your area.

To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below.

Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Point Lonsdale

JANUARY Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

6 WED

7 THUR

8 FRI

9 SAT

10 SUN

11 MON

12 TUE

0201 0830 1440 2157

0.73 1.31 0.45 1.26

0255 0922 1533 2300

0.81 1.27 0.45 1.29

0400 1020 1636

0.86 1.24 0.42

0000 0516 1125 1742

1.35 0.86 1.23 0.38

0056 0627 1230 1838

1.43 0.81 1.26 0.33

0145 0722 1328 1927

1.51 0.74 1.31 0.27

0231 0809 1420 2012

1.58 0.65 1.37 0.24

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

Best nine in, Brett McKnight, Brendan Hughes, Andrew Verboon and Jarryd Byrnes with 27.687 and the best nine out winners were Ryan McKnight, Natt Goodfellow, Brad Hutchinson and Kaila Hutchinson with 24.375.

Nearest the pin were second hole Heather McCaughan, eighth hole Russel Thomas, 11th hole Neil Soderholm and 14th Jan Trease.

The power pod was to be used on the 18th fairway as straightest drive for the ladies with Sheila Constantine winning and longest drive for the men, Paul Capper hitting a ripper up the fairway.

Thanks goes to all the workers who helped prepare the course for the day; it has been very hard work without rain.

Korumburra ladies THE field tends to be smaller at this time of the year and we were pleased to have thirteen women playing last Wednesday.

The DSR was 71 for the par event.

The Division One (0-23) winner was Chris Rickard (23) who finished square. The runner-up was Marg Clasby (22) with one down on a c/b from Lee Clements and Judy Webb.

Kath Welsh (32) won Division Two (23-45) with a nice two up.

Deb Wrigley (31) was runnerup on a count back from Julie Hislop, with one up.

Sharon Adams was NTP on the first and Moira Rogers was closest on the 10th and 13th greens.

The game has been altered to a Stableford event next Wednesday (from the one listed in the fixture).

Please add your name to the time sheet in the foyer if you are able to play.

The cooler weather was enjoyed by the golfers on Saturday.

Barb Twite had a good round with 91(21)70 net as did Judy Webb (21) who was runner-up on a count back.

THE ladies are playing summer golf per the time sheets and some ladies are hitting off with the sunrise to beat the heat and the increasingly friendly flies on the Wonthaggi course.

Last Wednesday 16 ladies played a round of Stableford and while the temperatures are rising the scores returned by some of the players are rising as well.

With a fabulous score Sev Piasente has returned to the winners’ circle with a (24) 42 points including a lovely birdie three on the fifth to add four points to her card in one hole.

She had some close competition and Robyn Wilkinson (23) 39 and Betty Bowmar (29) 39 returned lovely rounds as well. Marg Johnson also had a birdie on the fifth.

BDL were given to Betty Bowmar 39, Jan Jeeves 37, Marg Johnson 37, Dot Garry 36 and Anne Tschiderer 35.

Leongatha A BIG field of 100 golfers, including many visitors, enjoyed ideal conditions and the lush green fairways and flat greens to contest a Stableford competition on Tuesday of last week.

A Grade was taken out by Geoff McDonald with a very good score of 42 points.

Gordon Morrison won B Grade with 38 points, Fred de Bondt took C Grade also with 38 points and Bruce Cathie had 42 points to win C Grade.

NTP: fourth Doug Clemann, seventh Les Ellis, 14th Rebecca Thomas and on the 16th Marianne Leaver.

DTL balls went to 33 points in a countback and were awarded to Ted Bruinewoud, Jim Arnott, Marianne Leaver, Bryan Sword, Gary Sharrock, Tim Shackleton, Ray Burton, Leroy Sharrock, Jon Smith, Barry Hughes, Troy O’Connor, Will Norden, Colin Moyle, Brian Quinn, Glenyce McRobert, Chris Bailey, Rebecca Thomas, Peter Horman, Frank Smedley, Bruce Hutton, Garry Carcour, Keith Finney, Marcus Drummond and Evan Jenkins.

On Thursday Gordon Morrison continued his excellent form to post another victory, this time in A Grade, with 39 points.

Marcus Drummond had an excellent score of 44 points to win B Grade.

John Dalton had the irons working well to be NTP on both the seventh and 14th holes.

Other NTP’s were Barry Attwood on the fourth hole and Bruce Hutton on the 16th.

DTL balls were won by Gerry Mooney, Evan Jenkins, Barry Attwood, Simon Drummond, Fran O’Brien, Russell Williams, Ross Evans, Bruce Hutton, Jacob Drummond, Peter Hart, John Eabry and John Dalton.

On Saturday Glen Marsham had 39 points to win A Grade.

Andrew Westaway had 39 points to win B Grade in a countback and also the Super Comp.

Marcus Drummond continued his excellent form to win C Grade in a countback with 38 points and Trevor Moss won D Grade also with 38 points.

NTP: fourth Marcus Fleming, seventh Jason Dennerley, 14th Michael Puljak and Chris Leaver on the 16th.

DTL balls were won

by Peter Buttinger, Russell Williams, B Windsor, R Evans, John McLennan, Brian Sword, Frank Gill, Bruce Hutton, Rod Mackenzie, Simon Drummond, Rob Jenkins, Ron Findlay, Gordon Morrison, Chris Leaver, Peter Hartigan, Michael Westaway, B Tucker, Evan Jenkins, Geoff McDonald, M McKenzie and Malcom Legge.

Mirboo North Thursday, December 31 Stableford Winner: Keith Klerks (24) 40 points.

DTL: Ian Evison 39, Paul Cutting 37, Tom Whitelaw 36

Game on: from left, Elsie McBride, Alice Campbell, Thel Scoble and Pauline Lancaster were reasonably happy after 16 rounds at the Woorayl Golf Club with Thel at the top of her game favoured to win.

Woorayl SATURDAY saw Opal Motel provide the trophies for our stableford.

Peter Rayson won A Grade with 42 points, the same score as Graeme Calder who won B Grade, and John Hickey won C Grade with 41 points.

Down the line balls to D. Symmons, P. Carter, B. Hogan, R. Beilby, J. Hassett, M. Herrald, G. Ennoss, B. Collier, G. Evans and G. Forrester.

Nearest the pins to Bob Beilby and Graeme Winkler.

The ladies competition went to Sue Wakefield with 40 points and balls to Alice Campbell and Elsie McBride.

Nearest the pins to Marg Tuckett and Sue Wakefield.

The ball raffle to Slug syndicate.

Next week Frank Schwarz will provide the trophies for our stroke event.

Even bet: from left, Damien Symmons, Frank Dekker, Geof Forrester and Trent Walters were enjoying a social game at the Wooryl Golf Club on Saturday afternoon. The flies were sticky but were not spoiling the foursome’s competitive round. There was a wager resting on the outcome and at the ninth it was close to even. and Tom Traill 35.

NTP: sixth Tom Whitelaw.

Saturday, January 2 Stroke – Monthly Medal Medal Winner: Scott Blencowe (27) 69 net C/B. Winner A Grade: Ian Evison (9) 69 net C/B. Ladies Winner: Pam Stanhope (36) 36 points.

DTL: Richie Taylor 69,

Steve Beitz 69, Joe Taylor 71 and Mal Payne 71.

Second shot NTP on the first hole: Rob Clark.

NTP: fourth Brian George, sixth Garry Shandley, 13th Ray Matthews and 16th Ian Evison.

Next week is the Ray Bickerton Memorial with Men’s and Ladies’ individual Stableford play.

NTP winners were Chris Rickard on the first and Barb Twite on the 13th.

The scratch score winner was Lee Clements with 87.

A reminder that twilight golf resumes again this week, on Thursday, January 7.

Wishing all golfers a Happy New Year with good health and lots of enjoyable rounds of golf through 2016.

Korumburra THERE were 57 players on Saturday, January 2 for a stroke monthly medal competition, with trophies by L. and S. Webster.

A Grade: C. Verboon (16 hcp) 64 net, L. Webster (11 hcp) 68 net, T. O’Neill 70, R. Spokes 70.

B Grade: T. O’Neill (16 hcp) 74 OTS, C. Verboon 64 net, W. Hopkins 67, D. Gow 67, W. Thomson 68, R. Gallagher 68, M. Deleeuw 69, I. Dixon 69, R. Hamill 70, J. Bellis 70, D. Vanrooye 70.

Nearest the pin: 1st S. Bowler, 7th R. Crawford, 10th no one, 13th C. Verboon.

Tuesday’s winner was C. Verboon 43 pts, and Thursday’s winner was R. Gallagher 39 pts.

Winding up: from left, Greg Wilton, Rob Gallagher and Mick Bull before teeing off on the 10th hole at the Korumburra Golf Club on Saturday afternoon as the freshening wind added to the challenge.

Happy golfing: from left, Carie Harding, Marg Harper and Debbie Wrigley on the 18th after enjoying a nice round in ‘lovely company.’

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

SPORT | BOWLS Leongatha FIRST up the results of the monthly triples held on Wednesday, December 23.

The day was well supported and the winner was the team of A. Moule (s), J. Thornton and P. Davis with four wins plus 43. Runner-up was the team of J. Newcombe (s), K. Wagner and G. Cornell with three wins, a draw, plus six.

The best last game went to the team of ‘not known’as no results were on the sheet.

Sponsor for the day was Leongatha Travel and Cruise and the club thanks them for their valued support.

The John O’Connor / Stockdale & Leggo wine was won by the Leongatha team led by Ray McGannon and the club thanks them for their valued support.

Saturday, January 2 saw a good number attend the social bowls event which was a mix and mingle event.

The winner was David

Bee with 47 points and eight shots up, second was Gwen Williams also 47 points, third was Barry Davidson 46 points and 11 shots up, fourth was Bob Young 46 points and eight shots up, and fifth was Ken Williams 45 points and eight shots up.

Reminders: The Kitty Club teas will resume on Friday night, January 15 at 6pm.

Men’s pennant will resume on January 9 with Division 1 at home to Lang Lang, Division 3 at home to Foster and Division 4 home to Lang Lang.

Ladies pennant will resume on Tuesday, January 12 with Division 1 home to Foster and Division 3 home to Wonthaggi.

On a sad note, the Leongatha Bowls Club regrets the passing of Korumburra member Ron Hutton who passed away at the Korumburra hospital surrounded by his loving family on December 25.

Ron was also for a time a member of Leongatha club

Champions: the final of the Leongatha Bowls Club’s Men’s Pairs was played on Wednesday 30 December 2015 with from left, the champions for 2015 Ray McGannon and Wayne Walker. They defeated Peter Shaw and Russell Trotman.

South Gippsland Bowling Division SOUTH Gippsland Bowling Division held its premier blue ribbon event, the Men’s Champion of Champions, at The Toora Bowling Club over the weekend, January 2 and 3. The field boasted three previous winners plus a number of players who had previously competed in this championship.

Saturday saw two rounds competed, the Last 16 and the quarter finals.

R. Aitken from Wonthaggi defeated Phil Facey from Fos-

ter and Greg Hodge from Loch on the way to securing a semi final berth for himself.

Arthur Newsome from Tarwin Lower came from behind in both games to defeat first timer Bruce Cooper from Fish Creek and Toora’s own Terry Corcoran to move on to day two. Brian Edwards from Corinella, defeated Ray Naylor from San Remo and previous winner Shane Holmes from Lang Lang to book his semi final berth on Sunday.

Defending champion Peter Forrest was defeated by Ray McGannon from Leongatha

Cream of the crop: from left: the new champion Rod Aitken from Wonthaggi with the runner-up Brian Edwards from Corinella.

thestar.com.au and both Ron and his wife Suzanne were social members of the Leongatha Club. Ron and his wife were both involved, Ron as the chef and Suzanne in the kitchen associated with the Kitty Club teas. Ron will

be sadly missed.

The club extends to Suzanne and family our deepest sympathy and condolence.

Rest in peace Ron. Until the next report, good bowling - ‘Jackhigh’.

Robust: from left, Ross Lomagno, John Halliday, Jeff Coulston and Roger Balment were enjoying ideal conditions at the Korumburra Bowls Club. The synthetic surface is 99 percent true and was running at a good speed.

Favourite son: from left, Graeme Drury and former club member Mark Coulter at Mix and Mingle social bowls at the Leongatha Bowls Club on Saturday afternoon. Mark Coulter is now a pastry chef at Waller’s Bakery in Hampton and bowls with the Cheltenham Bowls Club.

Right, Love the sport: from left, Robin Provan and Joanne Lomagno who has been bowling for 11 seasons and loves the sport.

Below, On song: Alan Cherret sends down a bowl at social bowls at the Korumburra Bowls Club on Saturday afternoon.

Bowl away: Jeff Prendergast sends a bowl down at Mix and Mingle social bowls at the Leongatha Bowls Club on Saturday afternoon. who in turn was defeated by Tom Whitelaw from Mirboo North.

Sunday saw morning rain fall on Toora and take the edge off a green that people had said was running 16 seconds the day before. A good crowd began to filter in with high expectations of watching good bowls and they weren’t to be disappointed despite some fans on the hills above Toora causing blustery conditions that moved the bowls around.

In the first semi final Aitken got off to a good start until as usual, Newsome came home with a rush.

Aitken managed to hang on and proceed to the final.

In the other semi final Whitelaw who had won this event two years previously played off against Edwards, but Edwards maintained his resolve and defeated Whitelaw to advance to another Champion of Champions final.

The crowd had built up to watch the final and for the first 10 shots each it was neck and neck but then Aitken just managed to put a little more pressure on and managed to eke out a 10 shot lead 18 - 8.

This spurred the Corinella champ back into action and he

powered back into the game by claiming seven shots in two ends to be back within three (15 -18).

Unfortunately for Brain he was only able to gain one more shot whilst Rod scored the seven more he required to win his first ever Champion of Champions.

Last 16 results: R. Aitken (Wonthaggi) defeated P. Facey (Foster) 25/18; A. Newsome (Tarwin Lower) defeated B. Cooper (Fish Creek) 26/16; T. Corcoran (Toora) defeated P. Hill (Meeniyan) 25/15; S. Holmes (Lang Lang) defeated P. Sparks (Korumburra) 26/16; B. Edwards (Corinella) defeated R. Naylor (San Remo) 25/21; and R. McGannon (Leongatha) defeated P. Forrest (Phillip Island) 25/21.

Quarter finals results: R. Aitken (Wonthaggi) defeated G. Hodge (Loch) 25/21; A. Newsome (Tarwin Lower) defeated T. Corcoran (Toora) 25/22; B. Edwards (Corinella) defeated S. Holmes (Lang Lang) 25/18; and T. Whitelaw (Mirboo North) defeated R. McGannon (Leongatha) 25/12.

Semi final results: R. Aitken (Wonthaggi) defeated A. Newsome (Tarwin Lower) 25/21; B. Edwards (Corinella)

dfefeated T. Whitelaw (Mirboo North) 25/16.

Final: R.Aitken (Wonthaggi) defeated B.Edwards (Corinella) 25/16.

Inverloch INVERLOCH’S Summer Bowls programme continues with the rinks open to ‘barefoot’ bowlers every Sunday and Monday evening, 4pm to 7pm until the end of January.

The bar will be open so drinks and refreshments are available.

All bowlers (over 12 years) are provided with a set of club bowls and coaching if required.

Mixed mufti social bowls resumes this Wednesday, January 6 with sign on by 11.30am for a 12.30pm start.

Visiting bowlers are always welcome.

Thursday social bowls returns this Thursday, January 7 with the usual requirement to sign on by 11.30am for a 12.30pm start.

Visiting bowlers are welcome.

Tuesday Pennant for the second half of the 2015-16 season is scheduled for the following Tuesday, January 12 and

Meeniyan know how to host MEENIYAN Golf Club held its inaugural New Year’s Eve ‘bash’ on Thursday, December 31 with the aim of having fun and showcasing our magnificent venue to locals and tourists alike.

To watch: much of the evening’s activity was centred around creating a great family environment with plenty of activities for the children. This young man has the basics, looking very impressive.

To the great delight of the club some 250 people turned up to enjoy a perfect evening.

The free activities – face painting, jumping castle and mini golf - were a great hit

with the many children in attendance.

Adults also had a go on the mini golf, some becoming more competitive than their children!

Adults were entertained with a chipping and putting competition, Glow Golf Lotto and enjoyed the barbecue that ran all evening along with the bar.

An impromptu dancing competition for the children was held late in the evening

by DJ Dimmy with lots of lollies and free glow sticks being handed around.

A courtesy bus to Meeniyan and Fish Creek ensured that everyone got home safely at the end of the fantastic evening.

The successful evening was sponsored by the South Gippsland Shire and a donation received from Fish Creek JayCees.

The minigolf was generously donated by the Venus Bay Men’s Shed for the evening.

With the volunteer help of golf club members the evening was deemed to be a great success.

Saturday Pennant returns this Saturday, January 9.

Friday night’s member’s draw and happy hour will be back this Friday, January 8 with the fortnightly Friday night meal the following Friday, January 15 and all names must be registered on the chalkboard outside the clubhouse.

The meal is usually booked out these days and sometimes several days before the event so

book early or go hungry!

Ladies are reminded that the president’s garden party will be held at the Burge residence on Sunday, January 17 and revellers are asked to register their intentions and pay the $15 entry well in advance, for catering purposes.

Contact Ron, Gail or any committee member or leave a message on the club’s answering machine.

Leongatha District Cricket Association Umpire Appointments EVANS PETROLEUM Round 10 - January 9 Home team Grade A1 Town Phillip Island Inverloch OMK Grade A2 Glen Alvie Foster Kilcunda-Bass Koon-L/RSL Grade B1 Won Workmens MDU Nerrena Koon-L/RSL Grade B2 Imperials Korumburra Won Miners Poowong-Loch Grade C1 MDU Phillip Island OMK Town Grade C2 OMK Glen Alvie Won Workmens Poowong-Loch

Away Team

Ground

Umpire

v v v v

Imperials Korumburra Nerrena Won Workmens

SP 1 Cowes I Turf Outt

G. Adams T. Rogers G. Laird G. Wightman

v v v v

Won Miners Butch W Poowong-Loch FGC MDU Bass Bye

L. White (Sat 2nd) J. Curry A. Stride

v v v v

OMK Town Inverloch Phillip Island

McMhn Meen Nerr L Turf

A. Jordan I. Richards M. Heenan G. Goss

v v v v

Glen Alvie Foster Kilcunda-Bass Bye

EC N. Barnes Kor Rec T. Grace Won Nth A. Roberts

v v v v

Korumburra Won Workmens Nerrena Inverloch

Dumb Rhyll KSC SP 2

N. Graydon N. Grabham B. Bek I. Thomas

v v v v

Kilcunda-Bass Won Miners Koon-L/RSL Bye

L Velo GA WSC

K. Scrimshaw G. Wyatt L. White

Any person interested in umpiring contact Graham Laird 0408 454 741.

Please note all games start at 1pm.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016 - PAGE 35

| SPORT

thestar.com.au

Hard to beat the Tarwin

AS a setting for fishing the Tarwin River at Tarwin Lower is hard to beat even when the fish aren’t all that interested in taking the bait.

That was the story amongst anglers on Saturday; when the fish are biting it’s great but even when they aren’t there is no better way to unwind and enjoy the company of family and friends.

South Gippsland Field and Game RESULTS of South Gippsland Field and Game Simulated Clay Target Shoot held on Sunday, January 3, 2016.

Eighty shooters enjoyed a 75 Tgts Sim Grd event which was the first for the new year.

The Leith Johnson Annual Junior Memorial Trophy was awarded to Hayden Hamilton by Mrs Diane Woods nee Johnson for the 2015 year.

The high gun for the day was W. Lieshout 67 with the other placegetters as follows: AA: W. Lieshout 67, S. Busana 60 and S. Silver 57; A: P. Lee 63, J. Fowler 58 and S. Grattan 56; B: D. Munday 55, D. Chives 53, R. Busana

53; C: M. Huitema 49, R. Pearson 48 and M. Huitsma 47; Vets: G. Hart 55, K. Archiebald 55 and J. Robbins 50; Ladies: M. Hogan 49, K. Strybosh 46 and B. Hart 44; Juniors: A. McKenzie 49, H. Hamilton 48 and C. Bolding 33.

The next shoot will be a 75 Tgts Sim Grd event to be held on Sunday, February 7 starting at 11am at Hallston.

If you are interested in trying simulated clay target shooting just come along, you will be made most welcome.

Also South Gippsland Field and Game will be holding Waterfowl Identification Tests in the new year.

Bookings are essential so get in early and for further information contact Geoff Cooper on 0408 623 738.

On target: from left, club president David Thompson, Hayden Hamilton (winner of the Leith Johnson Memorial Junior Award) which was presented

by Mrs Diane Woods nee Johnson.

River time: from left, Lucas Dalle Nogare and his father Matt Dalle Nogare and Marcell Jusfczyk and his father Mark Jusfczyk from Rowville were fishing in the river at Tarwin Lower on Saturday afternoon.

The fish were biting but the four weren’t pulling them in. Mr Dalle Nogare said, “Who cares if they bite or not. We’re having a great day.”

Knots landing: from left, Kosta, Penny and Andrew Greig, day trippers from Eltham were fishing in the river at Tarwin Lower on Saturday afternoon. “It is a beautiful place,” said Mrs Greig. Asked if they were having any success Mr Greig said, “We’re getting more tangles than anything else.”

Money poured into local clubs SEVERAL local sporting clubs will be able to purchase new equipment with funding delivered under the latest round of VicHealth grants.

Clubs benefiting from these government grants are the Devon North Cricket Club with $2,050 to purchase cricket balls and playing shirts.

The Leongatha Croquet Club will receive $2,900 for croquet mallets and the Leongatha Cycling Club $3,000 for track bikes.

The Leongatha Football Netball Club receives $3,000 for club jumpers and the Leongatha Tennis Club will use $5,000 to develop a strategic plan which will assist club management to make decisions for its future.

Meeniyan Dumbalk United Cricket Club will have $850 to spend on junior cricket equipment and the Meeniyan Pony Club gets $2733 for body protectors and cross country fences.

Poowong Loch Cricket Club will spend $2,404 on junior cricket kits,

South Gippsland Miners Baseball Club will buy junior kits, bases and balls to the value of $2,830 and the Waratah Beach Surf Life Saving Club will have a new $2,077 paddleboard.

Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria Region said the grants will help local clubs reach out to new participants and fund items or equipment to help them improve safety.

Ms Shing said, “Whether it’s essential equipment like bats, portable goals, uniforms and balls, or items to prevent or manage injuries, it’s great to see so many clubs across Gippsland benefit from these grants.

“These grants are fantastic because not only do they encourage more sports and recreation activity, they also provide that real sense of community that comes from being part of a local club.”

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien said, “When someone decides to take up a new sport, purchasing all of the required equipment can be costly and

can often put people off participating, however these grants provide clubs with funding to enable them to purchase basic items that can be shared among members,” Mr O’Brien said.

“This equipment will make it easier for locals to get the recommended 2.5 hours per week of moderate physical activity.

“Local sporting clubs are the social fabric of many small communities and this funding will greatly assist them to attract new members and provide more equipment to be used at come and try and open days.”

Mr O’Brien said as well as the physical benefits of preventing illnesses, getting active helped maintain mental wellbeing, keeping us alert and resilient against the stresses of modern life.

“Research also shows that sport builds community pride and loyalty and offers people the chance to get involved, providing them with a positive sense of self-worth,” Mr O’Brien said.

The grants will pour $746,000 into

sport and recreational clubs across Victoria.

Each year VicHealth grants contribute up to $1.5 million towards helping communities get more physically active.

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said this round of grants will support 262 clubs across the state to make a significant difference to the number of people participating in sport, and help Victorians get the recommended twoand-a-half hours per week of moderate physical activity.

“These grants aim to increase or maintain participation in physical activity by funding essential equipment like bats, portable goals, uniforms and balls,” Ms Rechter said.

“Clubs that have high quality equipment and uniforms will help attract new members and retain existing ones.

“Sports and active recreation clubs are a terrific way to get involved in the community, meet new people and keep active for good health.

“Previous rounds have shown us that these grants encourage people to try new activities, support them to join their local club or continue playing their favourite sport.”

The grants are part of VicHealth’s drive to get 300,000 more Victorians taking part in physical activity by 2023.

Minister for Health, Jill Hennessy, said VicHealth’s Active Club Grants program helped more Victorians become involved in local sporting clubs.

“These grants are fantastic because they encourage more sports and recreation activity, often reaching new audiences by adapting programs to suit changing needs, and providing the real sense of community that comes from being part of a local club,” Ms Hennessy said.

“Initiatives like Active Club Grants that help get people involved in physical activity are important to prevent obesity and chronic disease as well as promoting overall good health and wellbeing.”

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 5, 2016

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