The Great Southern Star - March 20, 2012

TUESDAY, MARCH 20, 2012 - $1.20

Our Olympic future: clockwise from top left, Thomas McFarlane, Ben Green, Nick Aitken, Eleanor Patterson, Cameron McKenzie-McHarg (front of boat), Charlee Gough and Bowen Gough.

GOLD RUSH

By Tony Giles

FOUR gold medals have been won by Leongatha’s young sports elite in an unprecedented week of sport.

Up and coming cycling sensation Thomas McFarlane won one gold and two silvers in the Australian Junior Track Championships in Northcote over the past week.

In the Australian Junior Track and Field championships just completed at the Olympic Stadium in Sydney, Eleanor Patterson claimed two golds, one in the Under 17 high jump and one in the Under 20 high jump.

The fourth gold was won by Ben Green who leapt for gold in the Under 15 pole vault at the championships last Thursday.

But the big week of sport did not stop there.

Cyclist Nick Aitken won the Oceania Games Under 23 Road Race in Queenstown, New Zealand.

He is now highly fancied to fill one of the top spots in the Australian Under 23 team to attend the World championships in the Netherlands in September.

Coach of both Thomas McFarlane and Nick Aitken, Tony Smith of Leongatha, said it had been a magnificent week of sport.

“I’m exhausted. It’s been great,” Mr Smith told The Star.

Mr Smith was there to see Thomas win his gold at the Daribin International Cycling Complex in Northcote and it was a great feeling.

Thomas had collected two silvers already and was determined not to let the chance to win gold slip by.

In his final event on Saturday night, the 5km scratch race over 20 laps, he passed young New South Wales sensation Cameron Scott as the bell rang for the last lap and Thomas didn’t surrender his lead.

“Awesome” was how Thomas described his win to The Star.

Tonight (Tuesday, March 20), South Gippsland/Bass Swimming Club member Char-

lee Gough will compete in the 50 metre butterfly Olympic trials in Adelaide for a place in the Australian squad for the London Olympics.

Already heading off to the London Games as reported last week is Kaila McKnight of Leongatha, who will represent Australia in the 1500 metres.

Former Leongatha man Cameron McKenzieMcHarg is vying for a position in Australia’s rowing squad to contest the London Olympics. He is hoping for a spot in the pair and eight events, and is now in Sydney contesting the Olympic trials.

These achievements are only the tip of the iceberg. For more on our sporting successes, read more on pages 49, 50, 58 and 59.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Perfect day at Mossvale THE CLOUDS parted and the sun shone for what was literally One Perfect Day for the 10th Mossvale Park Music Festival on Saturday.

More than 2000 people came through the gates to enjoy a fantastic line-up of both Australian and international musicians whilst enjoying produce from local food, beer and wine stalls.

It was truly a day for young, old and everyone in between, with children and teenagers playing Frisbee and football until dusk, while others browsed a range of art and craft stalls throughout the afternoon.

The event began around just after midday with a Music Victoria Workshop, with a panel discussing how the festival was run, how people can get involved in music and explaining how organisers go about bringing musicians to Australia.

British band ahab kicked off the live performancnces for the day, with the music running late into the he night and the well-known and well-loved Dirty Three closed the festival on an absolute high. gh.

An initiative run by Prom Coast Arts rtts Council saw festival-goers document theirr day with photographs, before printing them out and putting them up on The Wonderwall, sharing their moments for everyone to see.

The music was enjoyed by all, with some me choosing to listen from the comfort of their camping chairs and picnic rugs, and others whilst flaunting theirr moves on the dance floor.

Lyrebird Arts Council event co-ordinator Ian Bevington said it was the biggest festival they had ever put on, and thanked everyone involved.

“I’m only a small part of the whole Lyrebird and Prom Coast arts councils that made the day such a huge success,” he said.

“We could not do it without their support, and the support of all the local businesses and every person who attended the festival.”

Music at Mossvale: The Bamboos immediately got the crowds up and onto the dance floor with their set-list of funk and soul numbers.

First on stage: the British boys from ahab livened up Mossvale Park with their beautiful four-part harmonies in a perfect start to the day.

Regular Mossvale attendees: Graham and Emi Habgood from Melbourne (centre) met up with friends Joanne Armstrong and Ray Triggs who travelled from Melbourne to stay at Venus Bay for the weekend. They enjoyed their fourth Mossvale Music Festival.

Above: Capturing moments: Michael Lester from Fish Creek and Yianni Banikos from Waratah North took a quick break in Prom Coast Art Council’s Wonderwall tent, where festival goers documented their day with photos.

Friends at the festival: Ben Mackie and Ruby Bevington from Leongatha, Rachael Greene and Erica Stevens from Melbourne and Jesse Wray-McCann from Leongatha enjoyed a drink or two and of course, the music.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 3

Stay alert, drivers warned

By Simone Short POLICE have reminded motorists to be more vigilant on the roads after a three car collision last Wednesday.

The accident occurred at the Strzelecki Highway and Mardan Road intersection at around 3.20pm when a 19-year-old Leongatha girl travelling in a Nissan Pulsar towards Mirboo North came to a stop in the right lane, to wait for an oncoming vehicle before turning.

A 46-year-old man from Mirboo North driving a Daihatsu and travelling in the same direction failed to slow down, subsequently colliding with the Nissan from behind.

Leongatha Police Sergeant Dale McCahon said

a third car was then involved in the accident.

“There is a slip lane there, but he hasn’t used it,” he said.

“Instead, he’s pushed her into the path of an oncoming vehicle and caused a head-on collision with a Holden Commodore.”

The driver of the Daihatsu, his two-year-old daughter and 17-year-old son were taken to Leongatha Memorial Hospital for observation and released.

His wife was airlifted to the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne with suspected neck and spine injuries, however Sgt McCahon said her injuries appeared to not be as severe as first thought.

The Nissan driver was taken to Wonthaggi Hospital for observation and later released, with reports

she was “sore, but fine”, while the 44-year-old female Commodore driver and her passenger were checked by paramedics at the scene for minor injuries, but were not conveyed to hospital.

“All three cars were written off and the Mirboo North man will face a careless driving summons and be charged,” Sgt McCahon said.

“People have to be vigilant, aware and concentrating at all times,” he said.

“It may seem like nothing, but a lack of concentration for a split second can cause an accident.”

Four ambulances, seven paramedics, Helimed, six police officers and a tow truck attended the scene, where traffic was held up for over an hour.

Lack of concentration: five people were taken to hospital and two treated for minor injuries at the scene of this three car collision last Thursday.

Politicians dispute funding

by Matt Dunn THE STATE Opposition has accused Deputy Premier Peter Ryan of “gilding the lily” over claims that VicRoads had been allocated $391 million for the 2011-12 financial year.

Shadow Roads Minister Luke Donnellan said the amount that would be spent on the state’s roads was much smaller, and the government’s statements were misleading.

But Mr Ryan said more money than ever was being spent on roads in regional Victoria, under the Coalition Government.

Mr Donnellan believes $76 million of deferred funds and a four-year allocation of $160 million for country roads and bridges had been included in the total, raising it greatly.

He said federal

money may also have been thrown into the calculations.

“Funding for the 201112 budget year was proposed to be $82.12 million, which includes all road funding across Victoria. This excludes funding already provided by the previous government for existing projects,” he said.

Mr Donnellan said it “appears as if the minister is gilding the lily and not being totally honest with his constituency.

“He needs to explain how this figure was arrived at and whether it’s a four year funding figure and specifically how much is going to each council,” he said.

“Figures for road funding are kept by VicRoads and this should be very easy to provide for public consumption.

“Further, this figure is more than likely to include funding from the Federal Government.”

A VicRoads spokes-

person told The Star the organisation could not say how much money it was spending on South Gippsland and Bass Coast shire roads.

The paper has been trying to ascertain whether more or less money was being spent by this government than its predecessor.

A VicRoads spokesperson said figures for individual shires were difficult to break down, as roads projects and funding allocations often crossed shire

boundaries and money was allocated to broad regions.

Requests to be supplied with state-wide figures for previous years were also rejected, as their release remains at the discretion of the current government.

Mr Ryan said that “taken in total there is no doubt that more money than ever before is being spent on roads in regional municipalities including Bass Coast and South Gippsland shires”.

The problems facing the crumbling road net-

work have come into sharp focus in recent times, with the vast number of potholes the most common complaint amongst road users.

“Funding distribution to regions varies annually depending on the changes in risks and needs across the state,” Mr Ryan said.

“This means that from year to year, funding for a region may increase or decrease depending on what works are prioritised across the state and providing funding information prior to end of financial year may be inaccurate.

“Overall there has been greater investment into road maintenance and improvement this financial year by the Victorian Government. This increased funding reflects the challenges faced in maintaining Victoria’s road network in recent times, including the impacts of multiple flood and storm events.”

Mr Ryan said works “to repair roads and bridg-

es damaged during 2010 and 2011 flood and storm events have been funded in addition to the maintenance budget allocation of $391 million.

“The Victorian Country Roads and Bridges initiative has also been launched by the Victorian Coalition Government. It will provide up to $1 million to each of 40 rural councils including Bass Coast and South Gippsland each year for four years,” he said.

“This is a total of $160 million of additional funds dedicated to improving the condition of roads and bridges in rural Victoria.”

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Sun shines on rally THE sun shone on the 21st Working Horse and Tractor Rally in Nyora at the weekend.

Crowds flocked to see working Clydesdales, sheep shearing, blacksmith forging tools, wood chopping and a wide variety of tractors and stationary engines.

There were bushmen in action

and pioneer skills, historical society displays and a grand parade.

Exhibitors came from all over Victoria and Australia.

“It was a fantastic weekend,” said rally president Peter Xuereb.

“I’ve had no complaints from anyone!”

In line with St Patrick’s Day on the Saturday, the rally this year took an Irish theme, with

the colours of orange, white and green.

“A few people took that up, especially on Saturday night.”

That’s when exhibitors and organisers gathered for a meal in the members’ room.

Peter said each year, efforts are made for a point of difference so that the rally stays fresh.

“We encourage different trac-

tors, engines and displays.”

One of this year’s attractions was a Gypsy Cob, a horse known for its colour and feather.

With the 21st rally over, Peter and his fellow-organisers are already planning next year’s event.

This will be on March 16 and 17 – St Patrick’s Day again.

Left: Old School: Oskar Huecherig from Wandin Blacksmithing Group, bashes a red hot piece of iron into shape.

Below: Fergie fan: Kim and Terry Rogers from Pearcedale, in front of a vintage Massey Ferguson tractor. Mr Rogers is a self professed ‘Fergie’ man.

Tractor pulls: this bright orange Chamberlain tractor was a part of the tractor pull on Sunday.

Ploughing on: a Clydesdale team waits its turn to plough the paddock at the Working Horse and Tractor Rally on Sunday.

Engine man: Jim Chatfield form Nar Nar Goon showed off his Lister twin cylinder petrol/kerosene engine to interested enthusiasts during the Working Horse and Tractor Rally.

Spinning wool: Jenny Vidler from Korumburra is a member of the Coal Creek Spinning Group. She demonstrated her craft over the weekend.

Men’s Shed finds a home

By Sarah Vella THE Leongatha Men’s Shed is taking off.

The group will start to meet weekly at Lyric Theatre’s Shed in Watson Road from this Friday.

Lyric Theatre is happy to affiliate with the Men’s Shed, as both parties will be sure to benefit from the new arrangement.

The men’s shed group met at Leongatha Memorial Hall’s meeting room last Friday.

Members will pay $10 as a yearly insurance fee for use of the shed, as well as $4 on the day of the meeting.

All are encouraged to attend the next meeting, from 2 to 4.30pm, to come and have a cup of tea or coffee, a chat, or to do some work in the Lyric Shed.

Men’s meeting: Rolf Taylor from Leongatha and Lindsay Leongatha Men’s Shed member Rolf Taylor believed it is better to come along and enjoy some- Oates from Mirboo North meet with members and affiliates of the Leongatha Men’s Shed to discuss their new home. one else’s company, than to sit at home alone.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 5

MG stops factory expansion

by Jacob de Kunder and Brad Lester THE massive expansion of Murray Goulburn’s Leongatha plant has been put on hold.

The company’s managing director Gary Helou told The Star that on Friday.

When asked if any works were going ahead at the Leongatha plant as part of the 10-year plan started in 2006, Mr Helou replied: “No.” Mr Helou said the expansion of the plant would be considered in the future.

“Leongatha is one of the major plants for us and expansion would be a key area of investment,” he said.

The upgrade was announced in 2005 as a project worth $135 million, including the installation of new technology and upgrading equipment.

The then Minister for State and Regional Development, John Brumby, was reported as saying the project would generate more than 200 direct and indirect jobs.

The Star was not able to ascertain the works completed so far under the project, nor the works still outstanding.

The news came soon after the company closed its milk powder drying operation at Rochester, cutting 64 staff.

The Weekly Times last week reported Mr Helou told suppliers in November he was going to slash $100 million from the co-operative’s operating costs.

“We’re looking for the amount of suppliers to rise and our production to grow,” Mr Helou told The Star.

“South Gippsland is a massive supply area for Murray Goulbourn and the dairy industry.

“We are looking to build up our

suppliers because of the interest in dairy imports into Asia.”

Murray Goulburn is doing what it can to get the best prices for the farmers, Mr Helou said.

“We are reviewing everything which will be a good thing for the company; it will eliminate some extra costs for us and have positive returns for the farmers,” he said.

“This should be done in any business to see where costs can be met.”

MG suppliers told The Star they were impressed with Mr Helou’s speech at the meeting.

“He’s definitely here to make changes,” one farmer said, who wished to remain anonymous.

“But these changes look to be to the benefit of us which is great.”

Farmers are also feeling positive about the outlook of the dairy industry, with worldwide demand for dairy products growing.

In town: Murray Goulburn chairman Philip Tracy and managing director Gary Helou at Leongatha.

Councils act on coal gas

By Jane Ross

SOUTH Gippsland Shire Councillor Kieran Kennedy is alarmed by the prospect of coal seam gas exploration on areas in the shire of national significance.

These include Cape Liptrap Coastal Park.

He’s bothered by the potential impact on tourism, which is worth upwards of $220 million to the shire each year.

The threat to prime agricultural land is another major concern.

Accordingly, he’s placing a notice of motion before council’s March 28 meeting in the hope of influencing the Federal Government.

Mayor Cr Warren Raabe said there was little council could really do because mining exploration licences are a matter for the State Department of Primary Industry (DPI). One has been lodged covering large parts of the shire.

Fire today AN ECOLOGICAL burn will be held at the Wonthaggi Heathlands today.

The Department of Sustainability and Environment will undertake three ecological burns totalling 23 hectares, five kilometres south-west of Wonthaggi.

The fire will control tea tree in the area and promote the growth of Eastern Spider orchid.

A fuel reduction burn planned for Walkerville on the weekend was postponed due to wet weather.

The DSE and Parks Victoria PV planned to burn 198ha one kilometre north of Walkerville North.

The CFA was due to help. A new date for the burn is yet to be set.

Defending the council’s “listen and watch” stance on coal seam gas, the mayor commented, “Everyone turns to council to do everything - there are some things council can’t do much about.

“Coal seam gas is one of those issues.

“The only thing council can do is change State and Federal legislation.”

That is the thrust of Cr Kieran’s notice of motion.

It seeks assurance that any proposed amendment to the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBCA) will not adversely impact on future farming and tourism projects and investments. An amendment to the act relating to coal seam gas issues is currently before the Senate.

A brief report in the March 28 council agenda points out that America’s Ohio Department of Natural Resources determined fracking “probably caused” a series of small earthquakes.

Fracking is part of the

process of removing gas from underground coal seams.

Cr Kennedy’s motion asks council to receive a report on an amendment to EPBCA. He wants council to stress that EPBCA amendment approval criteria ensure coal seam gas extraction can only proceed where “it is demonstrated” the project won’t contaminate underground water supplies, result in the release of significant quantities of methane into the atmosphere or lead to significant areas of agricultural land being lost to farming.

Coal seam gas is the subject of two items on Bass Coast Council’s agenda for this Wednesday.

A Queensland-based company has lodged a coal seam gas and coal exploration licence application with the Victorian Department of Primary Industries, covering a large part of Bass Coast and South Gippsland shires.

Officers have recommended councillors agree

to council committing to advocating against the expansion of coal seam gas exploration in Bass Coast Shire. This can hopefully be achieved by preparing a submission to the DPI based on issues such as protection

of agricultural land and the natural environment.

Cr Phil Wright has lodged a notice of motion seeking to exempt land from the granting of coal “and unconventional” gas exploration or mining li-

cences in Bass Coast.

This can be done, apparently, by asking the State Minister for Energy and Resources Michael O’Brien to “exercise his discretion” under the Mineral Resources (Sustainable

Development) Act. Cr Wright’s motion was drafted as the result of recent community meetings airing land owners’ concerns about coal seam gas exploration.

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

POOL DILEMMA Phillip Island desperate for pool

By Helen Bowering WHILE South Gippsland Shire Council grapples with too many pools, Bass Coast Shire Council faces a drastic shortage.

South Gippsland Shire Council is under fire as it looks at the future of its pools. Bass Coast has the problem of towns crying out for more pools, with the only pool in the shire in Wonthaggi not able to keep up with the demand.

South Gippsland is spoilt for public swimming pools, boasting six good pools including the state-of-the-art 25 metre indoor heated facility in Leongatha, 50 metre outdoor pool at Korumburra, a heated pool at Toora and other outdoor pools at

Foster, Mirboo North and Poowong.

Bass Coast Shire only has one public pool, a 32-year-old antiquated facility to service the whole shire, including Wonthaggi with a population of 10,000, Phillip Island with 7000 and Inverloch’s 5000 residents.

The Bass Coast Shire, currently the second fastest growing area in regional Victoria, has a permanent population of about 30,000, although in peak season the population is almost triple that and is desperate for aquatic facilities.

Wonthaggi, Phillip Island and Bass are seeking new pools and the Bass Coast council’s plan is to “develop the Wonthaggi Aquatic and Leisure Centre as the main facility for the whole of the shire”.

Despite the hardships faced by the Phillip Island

Victory is ours: Phillip Island swimmers celebrate their overall win in the South Gippsland Swimming carnival season on Sunday at Phillip Island.

Swim Club, trying to train without any public pool on the island, this proud club has topped the South Gippsland Association Swimming Competition.

Phillip Island boasts the most successful South Gippsland swimming club

for 2012 but can’t boast a pool to train year round; no easy feat against big towns like Wonthaggi and Leongatha, both with pools.

Wonthaggi will get a new pool, confirmed Bass Coast Shire Council’s director of community and

Fall protection is non-negotiable.

There has been an alarming number of workers falling from heights in recent times resulting in serious life-changing injuries and death.

The tragedy is that with proper supervision, planning and fall-protection all these incidents could have been avoided.

Are your workers at risk?

Taking short cuts when protecting workers from falls is unacceptable. Not only can it result is serious injury but also heavy prosecution.

Workers are at particular risk in a number of common situations: Using unsafe or incomplete scaffolding.

Using ladders incorrectly.

Using inappropriate ladders.

Falling from roofs and trucks.

Falling into holes, pits or shafts.

Train, plan, supervise Ensure your workers are fully trained and aware of the dangers of working at heights.

Ensure fall-protection equipment such as guard rails are always used.

Closely supervise workers and continually assess risk levels.

Workers who feel they haven’t been given the right training or equipment, should speak up or seek help.

Help and advice Visit worksafe.vic.gov.au or call the WorkSafe Advisory Service on 1800 136 089 for practical advice on preventing falls in your workplace.

economic development, Steven Piasente.

“The new additional 25 metre lap pool will be built in the next four to five years and will be the first stage of a major redevelopment of aquatic facilities in Wonthaggi,” he said.

Wonthaggi is first in line for a new pool, with the Bass Coast Shire agreeing to a $12.36 million aquatic facility redevelopment that should be completed in stages in the next 10 years.

This new aquatic development would offer: a warm water program pool with beach entry, replacement of the 25 metre pool including ramp entry and spectator seating, café and reception area, first aid room, crèche, accessible bathrooms, car-parking and group change rooms.

Wonthaggi will then still be the only town in the Bass Coast Shire to offer a public pool and it seems any hope of a pool for the

island seems a long way off.

This issue has been boiling on the island for decades and while fundraising efforts continue, it seems the pool issue is little more than a talk fest.

Members of the Phillip Island Aquatic Centre Fund (PIACF) and Bass Coast Shire Council have been meeting regularly since September last year.

Mr Piasente said that at the July 27, 2011 council meeting, councillors resolved to form a joint working group for this purpose.

“At this initial stage the group has shared information and discussed views on aquatic needs for the future,” he said.

“Originally there was a proposal to build the pool at the Phillip Island Adventure Resorts, but the group has since moved away from that after missing out on federal funding and the group was looking at other options.

“Council is in the process of purchasing 16 hectares of land on the outskirts of Cowes, diagonally opposite the RSL, behind where the carnival is set up during summer.

“This land will cater for the long term recreational needs of Phillip Island.”

This land would be for recreational purposes and was purchased from funds collected from developers at a cost of $1million.

Mr Piasente said the land was about two and a half MCGs in size and would be able to accommodate two ovals, tennis

courts, netball court and new aquatic facilities.

“Even though this is a long term project, we have already set up a register so that anyone who has an interest in what should be developed on that site can get involved,” he said.

The Phillip Island Aquatic Centre Fund Inc. shares with the community the frustration at not being able to access funding to build an indoor aquatic centre on Phillip Island.

The committee is pursuing alternative ways of funding the project and for a new site, and has expressed interest in the land recently secured by Bass Coast Shire Council.

Colin Grey has been working with experts from Melbourne University and the State Government with respect to geo-thermal power to heat the water for the pool.

“Geo-thermal is not only clean, it has the capacity to reduce heating costs by up to 50 per cent, compared with LPG,” he said.

Meanwhile the group urges the community to continue to show support by maintaining memberships, or joining/rejoining the Fund.

“This is a numbers game: the Feasibility Study PIAC commissioned demonstrated the facility will be well utilised, but the community must continue to support the pool by staying passionate about the cause”, said Don Turner, acting PIAC president.

He can be contacted on 0409 856 053.

Island pool push FRESH from winning the coveted South Gippsland Swimming Association competition, Phillip Island is upping the ante to see a pool established on the island.

Phillip Island Swim Club president Don Turner would love to see a pool built on the island and said, “If we could start digging a hole tomorrow that would be terrific”. “‘We see this as a priority for Phillip Island and question some of the spending in the Bass Coast Shire,” Mr Turner said.

“A pool would benefit the whole community and apart from health and fitness there are huge social benefits to be gained.

“Our children have fabulous role models at the club in our coaches and while the summer season is competitive, all the six South Gippsland clubs involved are just so supportive. The children meet with other children from other clubs and they are all mates and support each other.

“It is amazing the local swim club is

so strong and it is a great effort by all members to win this competition.”

The Island club relies on the Cowes Primary School that allows the club to train three sessions a week during the summer months.

After the first school term, the club moves to the Wonthaggi heated pool for training and Mr Turner said this isn’t ideal as the access to lanes is limited.

“The local club has grown and demand has increased. It would be great to have a pool on the island for all year round use,” he said.

Mr Turner attributes the huge success at the club this year to the Cowes Primary School staff being so supportive of the club and encouraging students from their own swimming programs who show potential to join the club.

“The school really works in well with our club and one of our local members runs her own private swim classes on the island and encourages her students to join the club and this has really boosted the membership,” he said.

Continued on page 58.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 7

Bystanders save lives

By Simone Short THE quick thinking actions of bystanders and road workers saved the lives of an elderly couple in Bass last Thursday.

An 82-year-old man was driving with his wife northwest along the Bass Highway when he lost control whilst negotiating a left bend.

Police reported the car crossed back and forth across the roadway out of control, before the vehicle overturned and landed on its roof in a deep drain, trapping both occupants.

Cowes residents Roger and Faye Morris were changing a car tyre on the side of the road when they saw the incident happen, with the out of control car narrowly missing Mrs Morris.

“It missed my wife and the car by four or five inches; it was really close, scary close,” Mr Morris said.

“A fellow following in a truck saw my wife standing there and started madly tooting his horn, but she didn’t have time to move anyway.”

Mr Morris quickly ran down to the overturned car and sent his wife to notify some nearby road workers with an excavator.

He made sure the female passenger was okay before going to the aid of the driver, whose head was under water.

“He was unconscious or blacked out and wasn’t breathing; I got his head up for a little bit, but water was still seeping into the car,” he said.

“I knew we’d have to get the car turned off its roof and upright. I think by the time the excavator arrived, I just decided it was more important to get his whole body up and out of the water because I couldn’t do anything for him the way it was.”

Cut and Fill leading hand Chris Mundy was working at the nearby road works when Mrs Morris ran over for assistance.

Mr Mundy said while they had heard the accident and had a look around, they couldn’t see the car in the drain and assumed everything was fine.

“We went over and quickly decided we needed to turn the car up, so I called over the UHF for some help; we needed some chains and our first aiders, and anyone who could lend some assistance,” he said.

“We realised at this stage that if anything was going to go wrong it was me who was going to wear it, but we had to do something.”

It was briefly discussed whether they should wait for an ambulance to arrive, but Mr

Mundy said they realised they had to act quickly.

“We couldn’t stand and watch,” he said.

“We connected a chain from the excavator to the undercarriage of the vehicle and very gently turned it up. I was directing the excavator and had a couple of blokes watching the passengers in the vehicle to make sure they were okay as well.”

Mr Morris said the car would have been under water for no more than five minutes, and by the time the ambulance arrived the driver was semi-conscious.

“He looked pretty good considering,” he said.

“It was just fortunate someone was close by.”

Intensive care flight paramedic Shaun Whitmore said the man had breathed in water while trapped upside down in the car.

“The man was immersed in the water for some time and has probably inhaled muddy water into his lungs and that was our main concern,” he said.

“The bystander did a fantastic job to right the vehicle because the man was in substantial danger and at risk of drowning while trapped in the car.”

Both the driver and his wife remain in the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, with their conditions improving.

Despite police reporting the driver would have most definitely died if it weren’t for their actions, both Mr Morris and Mr Mundy deny their rescue efforts were heroic.

Mr Morris said they just “happened to be the first there and anyone else would have done the same”.

“It wasn’t a dangerous situation for us; we weren’t running into flames,” he said.

“We’re not heroes, it was just a matter of helping him, and we had everything we needed to be able to turn the car over.”

Mr Mundy said it was a fortunate series of events that saved the life of the man, who had “a number of things working in his favour”.

“If the Morrises hadn’t have been there changing their tyre, it could have been quite some time before we realised,” he said.

“He was also lucky there was no oncoming traffic as well, because he crossed the highway before he crashed.”

Mr Mundy paid credit to Cut and Fill’s safety system and the fact they are all up-to-date with their first aid courses.

“I’d like to thank our guys that helped out, especially Darryl, Murray, Ben, Jim and Geoff,” he said.

First on the scene: Jim Morris was changing his tyre on the side of the road when he saw the car spin out of control and narrowly miss his wife before landing in the culvert; he and his wife quickly rushed to the aid of the driver and passenger. Photo courtesy: Chris Scott, Herald Sun.

Quick to respond: Jim Wilson, Chris Mundy, Murray Logan, Ben Vanvelzen and Geoff Norris helped save the lives of an elderly man and his wife after their car crashed into a culvert and filled with water last Thursday.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

POLICE BRIEFS Guns stolen

Lock up

WONTHAGGI Police are investigating the theft of three shotguns from a locked cabinet in a garage in Regency Drive.

IF you are going to the beach, please make sure you lock your vehicle and put any valuables out of sight.

The theft occurred sometime between Friday and Wednesday March 9 to 14.

Offenders forced open the door of the garage, then the cabinet containing the firearms.

Capsicum spray A WONTHAGGI woman was contained by capsicum spray after threatening self-harm yesterday (Monday).

Stopping the floods: Leongatha CFA member Scott Hillis spent last week volunteering his time in Nathalia in northern Victoria to help with the flood recovery.

Scott spent quite a bit of time sand bagging to prevent homes and businesses from being engulfed with water, and reported “no amount of training” prepared him for seeing snakes and spiders float past him in the street.

He was also happy to report that flood waters were receding, and the situation was improving for the locals in Nathalia.

Police were called to an address around 1.25am to find a woman in her bedroom with a knife on the bed.

Officers attempted to reason with the woman, however she wasn’t cooperating. Police were forced to spray her with capsicum spray.

She was taken to Wonthaggi Hospital for assessment.

Wonthaggi Police have re-issued that plea following thefts from vehicles in the Surf Beach carpark at Kilcunda and Bourne Creek beach carpark Kilcunda.

On Saturday, March 10 and Monday, March 12, cash was stolen from a wallet left in an unlocked vehicle at Surf Beach and the window of another vehicle was smashed and a handbag containing cash was stolen.

Both of these thefts occurred in broad daylight.

A Holden HQ ute was stolen from the Bourne Creek carpark on Saturday, March 17, between 3am and 3.30am while the owner was fishing. The registration number is GASTHJ.

Potholes claim car POTHOLES are believed to be the cause of a single car acci-

dent in McCartney Road Fish Creek.

Driven by a 19-yearold woman, the car hit three potholes in a row, the driver lost control and the car skidded for 30 metres before rolling down an embankment and landing on its roof.

CFA officers were the first on the scene, assisting the young driver from her car, although she wasn’t trapped.

Leading Senior Constable Tim Smith of Foster Police said the driver was taken to hospital but released later that day.

The accident occurred at 6pm on March 17.

Constable Tim Smith said Foster Police had had discussions with VicRoads about the intersection.

Cattle taken FOUR yearling heifers are missing from a property on the corner of Yannathan and Glover roads, Nyora, after getting out of their enclosure.

Korumburra Police said the cattle would be worth about $1200 each.

Child porn MEMBERS of the Morwell Sexual Of-

fences and Child Investigation Team are still waiting for computers and hard drives seized from a house in Leongatha on Monday of last week, to be analysed.

The team combined with Taskforce Astraea and the E-Crime Squad to raid two South Gippsland houses. One, in Loch, resulted in a Korumburra man facing probable child pornography charges.

A Leongatha house was searched but charges – if any – won’t be laid until the computers and hard drives seized are analysed.

Dangerous intersection THE Ides of March rang true for the problematic intersection of Toora Road and the South Gippsland Highway at Foster on March 15.

Two vehicles were involved after the driver of one failed to see another coming. That person received a penalty notice for failing to give way.

Leading Senior

Inspiring work: Lyn Shaw, Lyn Hodges, Yvonne Bain, Margaret Atkins (inaugural chairperson of the Inverloch Art Show committee) in front of Ken Griffiths’ painting, which won third prize.

Art inspires by sea MANY people attended the opening of the successful Inverloch Art Show recently.

Held at the town’s community care centre, the opening featured an interesting talk about early art in Melbourne.

Ramon Horsfield gave a succinct explanation of his judging and awarded first prize to Adrian Johnson, second to Di Wilson and third to Ken Griffiths.

The Bass Coast Acquisitive Award went to Judith Garde. Artists, whose works were highly commended were Julie Lundgren-Coulter, Margaret Lacey, Hazell Billington, Bob Pelchen, Matthew Petrucci and Ivan Fell.

Admiring work: Lyn Hodges, long - time sponsor and a new member of the Inverloch Art Show committee, stands beside Adrian Johnson’s painting, which won first prize.

First class: Judith Garde, winner of the Bass Coast Acquisitive Award.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 9

Longest lunch by the lake

By Sarah Vella ARCHIES on the Creek was host to a Melbourne Food and Wine Festival longest lunch on Sunday.

The theme of the lunch was local produce, with everything on the menu being grown within the 3995 region.

The menu consisted of stuffed zucchini flower, roast tomato fondue and lemon dressed wild rocket for entree. For mains, guests enjoyed Gippsland Black Angus tenderloin steak with mashed potato and vegetables, finished with a veal jus. Dessert was meringue with fresh boysenberries, vanilla bean ice cream and a raspberry coulis.

Fifty-five people attended the

lunch, held on the picturesque balcony overlooking the lake. Entertainment was provided throughout the day by local musicians, Intajazz, It was the first longest lunch that the restaurant has held in conjunction with the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival and they hope to make it an annual event.

Happy days: Jacqui and David Luscombe from Phillip Island loved the food and wine at the longest lunch.

Landfill dollars welcomed

Girls’ day out: ladies from Kirrak House at Wonthaggi Hospital enjoyed their lunch. From left: Helen O’Halloran, Frances Austin, Jill Milne, Carol Richardson, Eve O’Halloran, Kathy Beaumont, Maggie Gruen and Bernie Clinton.

Toora parties with pears

By Sarah Vella THE Toora Heritage Pear Orchard was alive with activity on Sunday.

could be enjoyed with delicious pear chutney made from pears picked

in the orchard.

The purpose of the party was to raise funds

for the upkeep of the pear orchard and to give people a fun time in Toora.

The inaugural pear/ pair party was loaded with entertainment, including local musicians, kids’ games, stalls, face painting, art exhibitions, cooking demonstrations, pruning and grafting demonstrations and a pear/pair parade.

The party was also used to celebrate the opening of the bridge that was washed away during the June 2011 flood.

The opening was performed by South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Warren Raabe.

The Toora Lions Club provided a sausage sizzle on the day, which

Above: Family outing: from left, Haylee Collins, Craig Peters and Jill Collins picked themselves a peck of pears from the orchard.

Left: Among the pears: Nigel, Scarlet and Sunday Plowright chilled out with some giant pears.

COUNCILS have welcomed State Government funding of $3 million to help rural councils meet new environment protection rules for landfills.

Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) president Cr Bill McArthur said the significant investment recognised the funding constraints facing rural communities and would ease rural shires’ rapidly escalating waste management costs.

“It’s pleasing the minister has listened and responded to our concerns by acting quickly to reinvest money raised through municipal landfill levies back into local waste and resource recovery initiatives,” he said.

“In rural and regional areas, councils have no choice but to provide landfill services for disposal of municipal waste, as there are few commercial providers.

“Rural shires have reported considerable strain on council budgets to meet the higher Environment Protection Authority (EPA) standards to manage and rehabilitate landfills, as well as the rising landfill levy.”

Costs to build new landfills or landfill cells are 30 to 40 per cent higher, which has resulted in hundreds of thousands, and in some cases, millions of extra dollars for rural communities.

“This state funding recognises councils’ need for extra support and the importance of boosting investment to protect our environment through improved landfill management practices,” Cr McArthur said.

South Gippsland Shire Council communications officer Jeannie Hicks said the funding was welcome, given the cost of complying with landfill best practice environmental management had “driven landfill costs through the roof”.

“We are currently in the process of constructing a new landfill cell at Koonwarra. This funding offers up to $250,000 to councils and can be applied for retrospectively, so we will be applying for funding to offset

some of the cost of the new cell,” she said.

Bass Coast Shire Council communications coordinator Eleanor McKay said council would make a submission for funding.

The landfill levy is a state charge on solid waste that is paid into the government’s Sustainability Fund.

Councils pay the levy on municipal waste, with the costs passed to ratepayers through garbage charges for

kerbside collections, gate fees at landfills and transfer stations, or rates.

Over four years from 2011, Victorian councils will collect an estimated $160 million in landfill levies from ratepayers.

A state increase in the landfill levy commenced in 2010, with rural municipal levies rising from $7 per tonne in 2009-10 to $24.20 this year and $29.90 per tonne by 2014-15.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

THE Meeniyan Christian Fellowship is planning to open Healing Rooms in the next few months.

Healing Rooms Australia are hosting an information/healing night at the church on Friday, March 30, at 7pm. This will be followed by a training day on Saturday, April 21. This training day is mandatory for anyone wanting to be involved in Healing Rooms.

For more information, check the website: www. healingrooms.com.au, or phone Paul Brailey

0412 755 627.

BASS Valley Primary School was the proud recipient of an Education Excellence award on March 6.

A number of staff attended the presentation ceremony in Traralgon to accept the award from the Secretary of the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. It is a wonderful achievement for the school.

ARE you, a relative or friend having a wedding, engagement party, 21st

birthday or other special occasion? The Star would be interested in publishing photos and reports about the events that are close to you. The Star office has wedding forms available to help guide your notes, which can be written as a story by our editorial team. To find out more, contact the office on 5662 2294 or email news@thestar.com.au SOUTH Gippsland Brass Band will be playing in Rhythm and Roses, a free event at the Morwell Cen-

tenary Rose Garden on Sunday, March 25. The music starts at 1.30pm and all are welcome. BYO chairs or picnic rug, but it is an alcohol free event. For more information phone 5166 1412.

THE Leongatha Horticulture Club is running a coach to the Melbourne International Flower show on Wednesday March 28. Some seats are still available. For details, phone Heather on 5668 9202.

JOIN the Scots Pioneer Church at Mardan South for a pleasant Sunday afternoon on March 25 at 2pm.

Paul Stampton, the manager of strategic planning and development at South Gippsland Shire Council, will speak about “beating the planners”. Young local musicians will entertain.

Annual THE 10th Dumbalk Village market will be held at the Dumbalk Hall on Saturday, March 24. There are more than 20 stall-holders booked with a wide range

of goods being on display for sale. Come along and have a stall or purchase a bargain. Inside and outside stalls are still available. Contact 5664 4314 or 5664 4334.

INTERESTED in caring for wildlife? Attend the Introduction to Wildlife Rescue course being held at Ruby CFA meeting room this Sunday, March 25 from 2 to 5pm. To find out more or book, phone 0418 591 571.

Jazz and wine among the vines

by Sarah Vella DJINTA Djinta Winery was the place to be on Sunday afternoon, with patrons enjoying local music, coupled with great wine and delicious food.

The relaxing, casual atmosphere of the winery’s cellar door area attracted people from all over South Gippsland to the free event at Kardella. Winery owners, Eleonor and Alex Biro were pleased with the day.

“We hope to make the event an annual part of the winery’s schedule, maybe even bi-annual,” Mrs Biro said.

“It is a free event, and we want to encourage everybody to attend and enjoy local music, food and wine in a friendly, family atmosphere”.

The winery is always on the lookout

for any local, young, up and coming musicians who would like to perform at events held at the Kardella South venue.

Di Kuyken from Yinnar South enjoyed the afternoon with her husband and some friends.

“The day was very relaxing. The food was delicious, the music was interesting and easy listening, and the hosts were friendly and obliging,” Mrs Kuyken said.

Music was provided throughout the day by The Coda Trail, the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band, the South Gippsland Wind Orchestra and Leongatha Secondary College musicians.

• More photos in next week’s Star.

Local flavour: South Gippsland band, The Coda Trail, played the afternoon away, with Russel Praetz on saxophone, David Velja on the keyboard and John Rees playing bass.

Good times: Alex and Eleonor Biro celebrate a successful day of jazz and good times at Djinta Djinta on Sunday.

Kids brave crazy hair day STUDENTS of Leongatha Secondary College shaved or coloured their hair on Friday for the Leukaemia Foundation, as part of the World’s Greatest Shave campaign.

Students Anna McCracken and Amy Charlton were the main instigators of the event and the school’s Student Representative Council supported them en-

thusiastically by running the crazy hair casual day.

Students were generous when raising money for the casual day, helping the school to raise more than $1400 for the cause. Many local businesses supported the event with donations of bread and sausages for the barbecue, including Safeway, Spokes Butchers, Bakers Delight, CSC Bakery, NLE Bakery and Thornton’s Bakery.

Goal reached: teacher Bronwyn Webster with Anna McCracken and Amy Charlton, the key instigators of the fund raising day, with less hair on their heads.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 11

Kayaking for a cause

By Sarah Vella HAVE you ever considered risking it all for charity?

Seven intrepid adventurers have chosen to do just that by paddling their kayaks across Bass Strait.

They began at Port Welshpool last Thursday and will spend a total of nine days kayaking 300km across a stretch of water known for its dangerous swells and unpredictable conditions.

Each evening they will settle on one of the islands dotted between the mainland and Tasmania, ending their journey on March 23 at Musselroe Bay, Tasmania.

Their first port of call is Refuge Cove, around a 50km paddle from Port Welshpool on the eastern side of Wilsons Promontory.

Serial adventurer Brian Freeman is one of the expedition leaders.

“We are doing it to raise awareness and also to raise valuable money for the charity, Bravehearts,” Mr Freeman said.

Bravehearts is a national organisation, founded in 1997 by Hetty Johnston, to advocate for the rights of children and families impacted by sexual assault.

Mrs Johnston works with government and non-government bodies on legislative reform, submissions, lobbying and research to improve child protection in Australia.

“We provide education in schools with Bravehearts’ mascot Ditto. In fact we have just celebrated helping 200,000 children with this education program,” Mrs Johnston said.

Ditto is taking part in the kayaking adventure.

To qualify for the Bass Strait adven-

ture, each paddler had to raise a minimum of $25,000 for Bravehearts, training hard since December.

“Each paddler has done four months of open sea kayaking and endurance training, culminating in a 100km paddle from the Gold Coast back to the Brisbane River,” Mr Freeman said.

The participants of this adventure hail from Brisbane, with the exception of the expedition doctor, Andrew Graham, who is from Cairns.

Mr Freeman and fellow kayaker John Jacoby paddled their kayaks from Australia to Papua New Guinea in 2011, but none of the remaining five paddlers have had any serious kayaking experience.

The challenge presented by the treacherous Bass Strait was chosen to help draw attention to the cause.

“We were looking for something that raised people’s awareness; it needed to be a challenging adventure because the guys wanted to demonstrate their commitment to the cause, being Bravehearts,” Mr Freeman said.

“The most challenging part of the journey is going to be the long hours, up to 10 or 12 hours in the kayak at a time.

“The support boat is only there in case we have a contingency. We are paddling island to island, so apart from that we will not get out of the kayaks or go on the support boat.”

The next Bravehearts challenge will be the Kokoda Track adventure, 96 kilometres in 96 hours.

For more information, or to follow the expedition, log onto www.adventure1000. com.au or braveheartsadventures.com.au.

Uni hopes A UNIVERSITY degree will be offered in Wonthaggi by the end of 2014.

Students will be able to undertake a bachelor degree in early childhood education from Deakin University at Chisholm TAFE’s Bass Coast campus at Wonthaggi.

The State Government recently announced the $950,000 initiative that brings the course to their doorstep.

The initiative will enable students to study the degree via video-conferencing and interactive e-learning from the TAFE campus.

Minister for Higher Education and Skills Peter Hall and Minister for Early Childhood Development Wendy Lovell announced almost $570,000 funding towards the initiative to be run by a consortium led by Deakin University and involving Chisholm Institute.

Chisholm CEO Maria Peters said the new funding would allow students to complete their Diploma of Children’s Services and qualify with an industry recognised national qualification. Now they will be able to transition and gain credit towards a Bachelor of Early Childhood.

Team spirit: back row, from left: Justin Ribot, mascot Ditto, Hetty Johnston, Ian Johnston, Brian Freeman and Michael Thirgood. Front, from left: Ian Kajewski, Graham Newton, Don MacLachlan and Guy Andrews.

Support crew: support vessel owner-captain Wynne Hobson, Bravehearts mascot Ditto and founder Hetty Johnston get ready to farewell the adventurers.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Premiums may rise

lieu Government’s case for ripping $471 million from the scheme.

LAST week’s (March 8) announcement by WorkSafe Victoria of a $641 million loss in the past six months of operation further undermines the Bail-

In uncertain economic times, it is staggering that the government would seek to jeopardise the scheme by pinching nearly half a billion dollars from WorkSafe, money that could be better used to help injured workers and promote safer workplaces.

E D I T O R I A L

Make roads spending public THE seemingly never-ending poor state of roads in South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires has now become a political hot potato.

On one side, the State Government is saying VicRoads was allocated $391 million in the 2011-12 year.

On the other, Shadow Roads Minister Luke Donnellan claims that figure was artificially inflated by the inclusion of $76 million of deferred funds and a four-year allocation of $160 million for country roads and bridges within a single financial year.

Something does not add up, especially when drivers continually swerve around large potholes and are faced with “traffic hazard” signs instead of action.

Driving from Middle Tarwin to Foster is a journey fraught with bumps and holes consuming whole lanes, and the Bass Highway, particularly between Leongatha and Inverloch, can be so bumpy in parts that one can only grimace at the state of their car’s suspension.

What is of concern is that the authority responsible for maintaining major roads, VicRoads, is unable to say how much money it was spending on South Gippsland and Bass Coast shire roads. Surely the organisation is not so big that figures based on municipalities are unknown. Surely VicRoads is able to indicate how much it will spend on roads this financial year compared to past years?

Perhaps the figures are simply not flattering and best be withheld. But when it comes to public money, the public deserves to know the truth.

Victorian employers are paying their contributions in WorkCover premiums each year to ensure injured workers receive fair treatment, not so the government can siphon nearly half a billion from the scheme to balance its books.

These funds should be invested as intended - in compensating seriously injured Victorians, helping them get their lives back on track and preventing workplace injuries.

Injured workers and the workforce in general have every right be angry at the knowledge that money intended for these vulnerable Victorians is being absorbed into general revenue.

Employers too are right to be concerned about what impact this unprecedented raid of the coffers might have on their premiums down the track.

Marcus Fogarty WorkCover lawyer, Slater and Gordon.

Council responsibility SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has a leadership role in the community.

The comments by the South Gippsland Shire mayor last week

in regard to fracking and mineral leases appear on the surface to be an abrogation of their responsibilities under the Local Government Act. Council has a responsibility and a duty of care under the act for the broad social, economic and sustainable development of the shire.

Surely the potential impact on dairying and farming is sufficient reason for a proactive response.

It compares poorly with the reported approach by Bass Coast Shire Council.

There is a growing body of scientific evidence that coal seam gas and fracking is fraught with difficulties.

Contamination of ground water, risks to air quality, the migration of gases and hydraulic fracturing chemicals to the surface, and the health effects of these.

There are now over six cases of fracking causing significant earthquakes in US, UK, and Europe up to 4.5 on the Richter scale.

A study by Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine, soon to be published in New Solutions: A Journal of Environmental and Occupational Health Policy, suggests that hydraulic fracking is sickening and killing cows, horses, goats, llamas, chickens,

dogs, cats, fish and other wildlife, as well as humans.

It beggars belief that we would put our valuable farming land and farming families at risk.

It is contradictory for the council to have supported the rural planning amendment on the basis that they will protect valuable farm land, notwithstanding their impact on the value of farm land and at the same time ignoring mineral leases that may lead to their alienation.

You can’t have it both ways.

The precautionary principle should apply to an industry worth in excess of $700m. Council must act to protect farmers and our valuable farm land.

Andrew McEwen, Meeniyan.

Take a stance SO South Gippsland Shire Council does not have a position on coal seam gas exploration (The Star, March 14).

Cr Raabe’s comments “We haven’t been approached...” and “We would need to carefully consider whether or not we become involved in the process”

would have made Sir Humphrey Appleby proud. They are certainly at odds with a Bass Coast Shire Councillor’s comments in the same article that “councillors should be making noises in the Bass Coast and surrounding shires as soon as possible. We made noises about desal, but not enough.”

Perhaps the South Gippsland mayor and councillors should sit down and watch a DVD of the documentary Gasland (I can loan them a copy if needed).

I’m certain that they would come away convinced that coal seam gas mining threatens South Gippsland’s “prime agricultural land” in a much more insidious way than building a home on a 20 hectare property was ever likely to do.

Mining companies do not give a damn about the land, only what’s in it that they can extract and make a dollar from.

And property owners cannot just lock their front gates and keep these people out.

Council has a duty to its ratepayers, especially farmers, in this matter, and should be preparing itself to represent those people’s interests as and when any need to do so arises.

Cam Young, Mirboo North.

VOXPOP! VOX Are you concerned about coal seam gas mining around here?

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.

Parking probe PARKING in Leongatha was the topic on shoppers’ lips in the town last Thursday.

Consultants were in and around the central business district asking shoppers for their opinions about parking in Leongatha.

The consultants surveyed 100 people each from 7am, as part of the development of the Leongatha Central Business District Parking Strategy by South Gippsland Shire Council.

The plan will identify and address parking issues in the Leongatha CBD. Shoppers were asked about where they parked, how long they were parked there, their reason for the visit to town and if they would park elsewhere.

Answers please: Steve Bracecamp from Berrys Creek was asked his views on parking in Leongatha by consultant Alex Sparkes (right). They were joined by Mary Sanderson, from South Gippsland Shire Council’s home care team.

No, not really. I haven’t heard much about it.

Brenton Savage, Meeniyan.

Not really, we live next door to Bass Gas. Patricia Pate, Lang Lang

Not really. My idea is that people need gas for their heaters; we need the fuel.

Drew Arnup, Leongatha

No, not really, I don’t know about that but I can understand it being an issue.

Charlotte Milkins, Leongatha

Big hearts, little hair NOT many girls would part with their hair.

For some, it’s one of their prized possessions, but that can change for a good cause.

Amy Charlton gave it all up for the Leukaemia Foundation on Thursday night by allowing her very lengthy head of hair to be shaved.

“I’m just really passionate about helping people and thought that it would be a really great thing to do,” she said.

After setting a goal of $3000, the Mardan girl rocketed past $3300 as the razors hit her head.

The 17-year-old is also planning to sell her hair and donate that money to charity as well.

The brave Leongatha Secondary College student was overwhelmed by emotion and starting crying as she lost her hair.

Amy’s friend Monique Goss also joined in on the fundraising for the good Before: both Monique Goss and Amy Charlton lost cause by cutting her long straight hair their great hair on Thursday night for the Leukaemia into a short neat do for the cause.

Foundation.

Short cut: Monique Goss.

All gone: Amy Charlton.

“THE STAR�, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 13

Traffic to choke town

By Brad Lester LEONGATHA’S streets will be busier once Simons Lane is temporarily closed at the Bass Highway, a Leongatha man has warned.

Laurie Ryan said Simons Lane is a popular bypass route around town for traffic travelling from the direction of Inverloch and was also well used by local drivers.

South Gippsland Shire Council recently voted to close Simons Lane 30m east of the Bass Highway intersection once a planning permit for housing development along Simons Lane was issued.

The closure will remain in effect until a new, safer intersection is built.

But Mr Ryan said trucks and other traffic would be diverted through town instead. “A lot of the cars use Simons Lane as a shortcut to the South Gippsland Highway.

If all of these cars were diverted through Leongatha, can you imagine what the overhead bridge (on Bair Street) would look like? It’s bad enough now,� he said.

“Even one week of closing Simons Lane would be bad, I think. Those extra vehicles will come up Koonwarra Road, past the hospital entrance, past the medical centre.

What turmoil it would be.�

Mr Ryan said he already has to wait too long for traffic at the roundabout of Peart, Bruce and McCartin streets, and believed the extra traffic would exacerbate the problem. “To walk across McCartin Street now, you have to wait for vehicles but it’s endless sometimes. It could be 10 minutes because of the traffic that comes up Peart Street,� he said.

Mr Ryan and his wife Mary have lived on the Bass Highway for 64 years and said while entering the highway from his house could be dangerous, he was not fazed.

He did not believe the intersection of Simons Lane and the Bass Highway was too risky. “You need to be careful. It’s the careless people that have accidents; people on mobile phones and their radios going so they can’t hear car noises,� Mr Ryan said.

Watch out: Laurie Ryan believed closing Simons Lane at the intersection with the Bass Highway would divert more traffic into Leongatha.

Developer wanted

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Tom Tootell owns the Yanakie site, but without the finances or expertise to realise the project, continues to look for a developer who shares his passion.

The project advanced recently when Victorian Planning Minister, Matthew Guy approved the rezoning of the site from Farming Zone to Special Use Zone.

Mr Tootell has been waiting for many years for such a decision to be made. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will be out trying to find the person with the finance and passion to ensure it is developed in the spirit that I would like it to be done,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is important that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done properly for the benefit of the environment and the people in the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You need something that is community driven, you need community support, you need food and beverages from the local community, staff from the local community, and people with a passion to make it work and the Prom gate project has that.â&#x20AC;?

With Melbourne just over two hoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive away, Mr Tootell believed the project would receive ample clientele and cater for travellers not wishing to camp.

He said the resort, named the Wilsons Promontory Nature Retreat, would help to meet a shortage of accommodation in the park, with roofed accommodation often booked 12 months in advance.

Mr Tootell said at many great national parks, accommodation was now being built beyond the park boundaries to protect the environment, and Wilsons Promontory needed to follow suit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The main aim is to protect Wilsons Promontory National Park from any further development and the only way of doing that is to create something outside of the Prom,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The flooding at Tidal River showed that Tidal River is not a long term solution (for further accommodation) with rising sea levels. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love the park so thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why I bought the farm and built it up.â&#x20AC;?

Mr Tootell said the project has the backing of Parks Victoria, South Gippsland Shire Council and Tourism Victoria.

He has created saltwater wetlands and planted 150,000 trees on the site, which he hopes will one day host accommodation, conference facilities, a restaurant and possibly shops.

Mr Guy said the rezoning would result in an amendment to the South Gippsland Planning Scheme to facilitate the development of an environmentally responsive tourist precinct at 4215 Meeniyan-Promontory Road.

The proposed development consists of 50 cabins, 20 semi-permanent safari tents, as well as a conference and restaurant facility.â&#x20AC;?

Deputy Premier and Member for Gippsland South Peter Ryan said the tourism proposal had been long awaited, regionally significant and represented a turning point in the Promâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Coalition Government continues to provide for local employment opportunities by improving regional tourism, which in turn directly benefits Gippsland South,â&#x20AC;?

Mr Ryan said.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

A regional partnership with the TAC and the Victorian Government.

Respect the road works

By Simone Short WHEN approaching a road works area and you pass a 40km per hour sign, what is your first thought?

Do you slow down, or keep going at your previous speed limit?

If your answer is the latter, you may want to rethink your decision because not only are you breaking the law, but also endangering the lives of those around you.

Bass Coast Highway Patrol Acting Sergeant Mick Ritchie said road work zones are there for the protection of both members of the public and the road workers involved.

“The limits are there for the safety of all and people are legally bound to abide by them,” he said.

“Those that are caught breaching them will be dealt with accordingly.”

Alternative signed speed limits aren’t only for when workers are in action either; signs need to be obeyed at all times.

“If the signs are there, the signs will be enforced,” Act Sgt Ritchie said.

“People may have different interpretations as to when an area is being worked on or not, but if the signs are

in place people need to be aware of them.”

Signs may be left on the roads for a number of reasons, all relating to safety, such as the conditions of the road or the particular reasons as to why road workers have been working there are still existent, such as sign or drain repairs, tree lopping, road maintenance or warnings for pot holes.

Act Sgt Ritchie said speeding through these areas can also result in serious fines; if it’s a 40km per hour zone and people are doing twice the speed limit, they are liable for a six month licence suspension and at worst, if they’re doing 45km per hour over the limit, their licence can be suspended for 12 months.

“People need to be very vigilant,” he said.

“They also need to show a bit of empathy and put themselves in the shoes of the people actually doing the work. There’s nothing worse than being at a site, whether for a collision or repairing the road surface, and having people speed past you in close proximity.

“Signs are there for a reason and people need to appreciate that.”

Cut and Fill site manager Merv Gilberd said he and his workers are of-

ten frustrated with motorists not taking any notice of road work signs.

“Sometimes when people come across the 40km signs and see that nobody is there, they don’t think they have to obey them and put their foot down, but often our workers could just be on a break,” he said.

“We can’t take down the signs every time we’re not actually working and there could still be dangers on the road drivers need to be aware of.”

Mr Gilberd said when he is driving himself, he notices other people on the roads speeding through road work zones.

“I know I always slow down myself, because I’m in the industry and know how important it is, and often I’ll have cars banked up behind me trying to get past,” he said.

“It’s very important people obey all the roadwork and warning signs, whether they believe it’s safe or not. It makes it much easier for everyone working on-site too.”

Act Sgt Ritchie said if you are aware of road works going on between yourself and your destination, try to leave 10 minutes earlier, or have a think about it and see if you can take an alternative route to save any frustrations down the track.

Obey the speed limit: the speed on road work signs is enforced by police and speeding through dangerous areas can not only result in licence suspension and a fine, but also endanger the lives of workers and fellow motorists.

Stickers set to warn of bikes PROPOSED designs for stickers to remind drivers to check before opening their car doors are generating a substantial amount of discussion on the Road User or Abuser Facebook page, Minister for Roads Terry Mulder said.

Mr Mulder said the Victorian Government was committed to improving bike rider safety and responding to the community’s calls for stickers to remind drivers to check for bike riders before opening car doors.

The development of stickers is also in line with the Coroner’s recommendation for VicRoads to look at ways to educate drivers about the need to check for bikes before opening their car door.

“It is important drivers and bike riders take shared responsibility for staying safe on Victoria’s roads,” Mr Mulder said.

“As the Road User or Abuser campaign enters its final week, I encourage all drivers and bike riders to take this opportunity to provide feedback on the sticker designs, as well as clear up misconceptions about the road rules and address issues relating to road safety.”

Mr Mulder said that once community feedback on the concepts for the stickers has been provided on the Road User or Abuser Facebook page, VicRoads would take it into consideration before finalising a design. It is anticipated the stickers will be made available by April 2012.

“When the Road User or Abuser Facebook campaign was launched on February 6, 2012, we pledged to address any issues or hot topics as they arose.

One of the key issues that has been raised on the Road User or Abuser Facebook page has been the issue of drivers checking for bike riders before opening a car door,” Mr Mulder said.

He said statistics showed car doors being opened into the path of a bike rid-

er was a common cause of injury.

A recent poll on the Road User or Abuser Facebook page showed bike riders and drivers recognised this was a high risk to the safety of riders.

“Opening your car door without checking can kill or seriously injure a bike rider,” Mr Mulder said.

“By checking all the mirrors and doing a head check, you can make sure it is safe before opening your car door.

“On average, there are 33 serious injuries annually from car door and bike rider collisions, and there has also been one fatality in the last five years.

Seven per cent of bike rider serious injuries and fatalities occur when a driver opens their car door into the path of a bike rider.

“This is much higher in the Melbourne CBD and surrounds, at approximately 20 per cent.”

Mr Mulder reminded drivers that the law says you must not cause a hazard to another vehicle (such as a bike) by opening your car door. The maximum penalty for this offence is $366, while the on-the-spot infringement fine is $122.

The Road User or Abuser campaign addresses a key topic each week over six weeks of the campaign, including relationships, rules and tips, visibility, points of view, confessions and conciliation.

At the end of the campaign, VicRoads will examine the results and use them to develop future communications for bike riders and other road users.

All drivers and bike riders are urged to log on to the Road User or Abuser Facebook page, take the quiz and start talking about the issues they face when on the road.

The Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/RoadUserOrAbuser For more information on safe cycling, visit vicroads.vic.gov.au/Bicycles

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 15

Meet magnificent Europe RIVER cruising is the best way to really get into the heart of Europe, and APT is winning their way into your hearts with some amazing deals now on offer.

Exclusively with APT, you will enjoy incredible savings on select European River Cruising itineraries for 2013, but with the offer available for a limited time only, be sure to book your luxury river journey with the team at Jetset in Leongatha before April 30 and your cruise will be guaranteed at 2012 prices.

What’s more, APT in selected categories will ensure that you fly free to Europe, including $850 in airport taxes per person. That is a massive saving of up to $5700 per couple and an amazing SuperDeal, which will not be repeated!

Having experienced APTs Magnificent Europe comprehensive tour herself, Jill Carmody from Jetset cannot recommend cruising with APT highly enough.

“From the moment you’re on board, you’re in the hands of APT and while their satisfaction rate is 98 per cent, I’d give them 99.9 per cent; I couldn’t fault them,” she said.

“You only have to unpack once, which is a huge bonus; you can forget all about the rushing about you have to normally do.”

Jill describes the boat as a

“floating resort”. Aboard all of APT’s river ships, you’ll experience state-of-the-art accommodation, offering the widest choice of balconies.

Each ship is luxuriously appointed with exceptional amenities, and a versatile range of dining options and nightly entertainment complete an outstanding onboard experience.

Off board, the ultimate European experience is right at your feet, with the opportunity to visit at least five different countries.

Local guides will show you the sites, with a variety of tours available to choose from at every stop, starting with a canal cruise through Amsterdam or a visit to the Van Gogh museum.

Stopping by Cologne in Germany will give you the chance to see the largest medieval cathedral in the world whilst on a walking tour, and a trip to Rudesheim incorporates visits to the picturesque villages alongside the river.

Other optional excursions throughout Germany include trips to Wertheim, Wurzburg and Bamberg, as well as the opportunity to visit the medieval walled village of Rothenburg and the famous Christmas markets held in Nuremburg.

“Germany is such a beautiful place and you will discover all of its hidden secrets when visiting these towns whilst touring with APT,” said Jill.

Moving into the Czech Republic, you can decide to visit the city of Cesky Krumlov, or opt to take a tour of Passau in Germany before cruising down the river to Linz in Austria.

Again with endless options, you may also prefer to take an excursion to the magnificent city of Salzburg through the lakes district and filled with history as both the city from the Sound of Music and birthplace of Mozart.

As your trip comes to a close, you will arrive in beautiful Vienna, where you can take a tour of the city or visit Schommbrum Palace, with the opportunity to also visit Bratislave, the capital of Slovakia.

While your holiday can end with a trip to the Hungarian State Opera House, which Jill describes as the most beautiful in Europe, extensions can be added on to your cruise, including visits to Prague and Paris.

So stop dreaming of your ideal river cruise throughout Europe and book before it’s too late!

Anyone with enquiries can contact Jill and the team at Jetset in Leongatha and make an appointment to check availabilities so you don’t miss out on this great opportunity to discover Magnificent Europe in 2013.

First hand experience at Jetset: having travelled throughout Europe with APT, Jill Carmody can help you plan your perfect holiday. She is pictured here (centre) with Ed Carmody and Captain Lukas at the Captain’s Dinner on board the Amadante.

Wait for trail funding IT’S now just a matter of wait and see, say advocates of the Great Southern Rail Trail.

After a South Gippsland Shire Councilbacked plan to extend the trail between Foster and Welshpool was submitted to the State Government for funding late last year, those closest to the proposal are patiently waiting to find out whether they have been successful.

Council is committing $900,000 to the project, and seeking another $2 million from the state.

Great Southern Rail Trail Committee of Management president Neville Pulham said he was hoping for an announcement by mid-April.

“We’re keeping our fingers and toes crossed at the moment,” Mr Pulham said.

“Our submission has gone to Regional Development Victoria for consideration. They’ll be perusing that and hopefully there could be $2

million coming our way. This will take the trail from Foster to Welshpool.”

The project will add another 18.5km to the rail trail, as well as infrastructure, including bridges.

Council grants officer Penny Ellicott said she was also keeping her fingers crossed.

“This would offer a huge economic boost to the region, as well as boost to individual communities – it’s really a two-pronged approach to development.

The program that we applied through was geared specifically toward tourism projects,” Ms Ellicott said.

“This is one of the more picturesque trails in the state. We really did a thorough economic assessment of the effect on the region of having the extension completed.

“We’ve used a lot of resources to make sure it was well-costed and well-planned and looked at the economic benefits to the region. It’s been a lengthy process.”

Discover Europe with APT: whilst in Germany, you will get the chance to visit Cologne Cathedral, home to the relics of the Magi and the largest medieval cathedral in the world.

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Skaters: open our gate

By Jacob de Kunder

skate park.

SKATERS in Korumburra are calling for fair access to their

The gate that provides direct access to the skate park has been indefinitely locked and they want it

UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS FIRE MESSAGE MARCH A message from Victoria’s Fire Services Commissioner, Craig Lapsley

As the summer fire season begins to draw to a close, I’d like to thank all Victorians for increasing their fire preparedness and awareness about the threat of bushfire during the high-risk summer period.

Communities have played an invaluable role in helping the state’s fire services respond to bush and grassfire during a very active fire season, in which a range of small-scale fires were contained quickly so that largescale disasters with the potential to threaten life and property were avoided.

Warm weather conditions are expected to continue throughout March. Despite recent flooding, we may still see some fire activity, particularly in Victoria’s west.

With more than 80 per cent of the state’s grasslands completely dry, the risk of fast-moving grassfires remains relatively high throughout the month.

It’s never too late to create a Bushfire Survival Plan or refresh your existing, written plan. Be aware of the fire risk in your local area and, on days of high Fire Danger Ratings, leave high-risk areas early and go to a location that is away from the fire risk, such as a built-up area.

It’s important to know the bushfire survival options that could provide you and your family with some protection

from a fire front and radiant heat. To learn more, visit my interactive multimedia website www.firecommissioner.vic.gov.au/ yourbushfiresurvival/ Remember, fires can quickly escalate. Don’t wait for an official warning to tell you to take action.

Be well-prepared, monitor conditions, listen to the radio, follow your bushfire survival plan, check the CFA website www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667 As the weather becomes milder, planned burning conducted by Department of Sustainability and Environment and Parks Victoria is likely to increase as part of an integrated plan to reduce bushfire risk to people, property and communities.

Victoria’s weather is always changing, so burning will be done whenever the weather is right.

Burns will be carried out to reduce fuel loads near communities and in remote areas, so you may see or smell smoke.

To find out when and where planned burns are happening, visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/burns or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667 or get the free CFA FireReady app www.cfa.vic.gov.au/mobile Craig Lapsley Fire Services Commissioner, Victoria

open again.

Korumburra skater Jake McDonald spoke to The Star about the skate park users’ concerns.

“It’s a real hassle having to walk around to the top gate or bottom gate of the showgrounds when there is a perfectly good gate right there,” he said.

“This gate has been locked now for four-anda-half years.”

Some skaters have cut a hole in the wire out of frustration.

“I’m not sure who has cut the hole but it just shows how frustrated some of us are getting,” Mr McDonald said.

The major reason the gate is locked is the risk of damage to cars, said Syd Whyte from the Korumburra Agricultural and Pastoral Society.

“The kids ride their bikes in there and scratch the cars from the bowling club; that’s the main reason it’s closed,” he said.

“I would like to see it just fenced over.”

Mr Whyte said the other entry points are fine.

“What’s wrong with them going in through the other gates?” he said.

“This gate is just another thing you’ve got to worry about when locking up, and when you’ve got pony club and sheep dog trials on.”

Open solution: skater Jake McDonald said the Korumburra skate park gate should be unlocked.

Mr McDonald said cars park too close to the gate.

“All you need is to block out two metres of the car-park where the gate is with a zebra crossing-type thing,” he said.

“This will give us a wide enough path to walk through with our bikes and scooters.

“I’m even willing to paint it myself if it means we get to use the gate.”

Alan Hall from the Korumburra Apex Club, which initiated the skate park, would like to see the gate opened again.

“It would be good if we had it opened again,” he said.

“I know there have been issues with the cars there but a simple set of line markings would be an easy solution.”

Secretary of the Korumburra Bowling Club John Myors said that he’s not sure why the gate was locked in the first place because he could not recall any damage done to cars at the bowling club.

“Why the A and P Society closed it I don’t know,” he said.

“I could never understand why they locked the gate. It’s there, it’s a public utility and they should be encouraged to use it.”

Mr Myors said he’d be happy for the gate to be opened again if a path to the gate was marked out.

“If we knew where to park and where not to park it would be fine,” he said.

“If there was damage done all those years ago it was probably because the kids couldn’t get in there unimpeded.”

Mr McDonald said

that parking in the show grounds complex would no longer be an issue if gate access was allowed.

“We’re not even meant to park in here I don’t think,” he said.

“We’ve been told by the grounds keeper of the footy oval a few times, but we have no other choice and I think he just lets us go because he knows that.

“If we could use that gate we’d park on the street and just walk up through there.”

Crash victim fights for bathroom A KORUMBURRA man who lost a leg in a motorbike crash will soon be able to shower independently after the Transport Accident Commission backed down from a decision to deny him a bathroom upgrade.

In February 2010, Mark Tollitt was riding his motorbike from his home at Korumburra to his business at Mentone when a motorist illegally turned across his path at Lang Lang, causing a collision that resulted in his leg being crushed.

The severity of his injuries forced surgeons to amputate the limb below the knee and subsequent complications, including an MSI infection, have since required him to go through another six operations. A further four are scheduled for later this year.

Soon after being released from hospital following the accident, the TAC refused a request to upgrade Mr Tollitt’s bathroom, including a

PROUDLY SERVING OTHERS

ground-level shower that could accommodate a wheelchair, lowered toilet and sink as well as the removal of a bathtub.

“All I wanted from the TAC was the ability to wash, to go to the toilet and to shave independently rather than have to rely on my wife or my three teenage kids,” Mr Tollitt said.

“We’re not talking millions of dollars. It will be somewhere between $10,000 and $15,000.”

Two weeks ago a TAC representative contacted Mr Tollitt to tell him the organisation had changed its mind.

The phone call came six weeks after Mr Tollitt went public with his grievances.

Slater and Gordon motor vehicle accident lawyer Stuart Le Grand, who helped Mr Tollitt in his negotiations with the TAC, said he was preparing to contest the decision at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal before the TAC reversed its decision.

“Up until they changed their minds, the TAC

was basically saying it was perfectly reasonable for Mark to have to step backwards on crutches over a step just to get into the shower and then he has to sit on the floor to wash himself,” Mr Le Grand said.

“The decision to modify the bathroom is a common sense one but it is disappointing that Mark had to fight for his entitlements.”

Under the Transport Accident Act, the TAC is liable to pay compensation covering loss of income, medical expenses and a range of other out-of-pocket expenses to anyone injured in a motor vehicle accident.

Mr Tollitt has already received loss of earnings benefits and the TAC is also paying for his medical expenses, but Slater & Gordon is pursuing a common law claim for pain and suffering against the at-fault driver who will also be covered by the TAC.

Being a PSO stands for a lot. It gives you a special standing in your community. As a Protective Services Officer, you help keep our train stations safe. And in helping others, you might even discover something more satisfying than a 9 to 5 job for yourself.

Apply to become a PSO today. P.S. Your community needs you.

PROTECTIVE SERVICES OFFICERS Help keep our train stations safe. Become a PSO. Visit policecareer.vic.gov.au or SMS “Jobs” to 132 001.

POL0091

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 17

World first: Helimed to carry blood PEOPLE seriously injured in accidents in Gippsland have a greater chance of survival.

A world first program is now in place that now sees blood administered

by MICA flight paramedics.

Installation of a specially designed blood shipper on the La Trobe Valley based helicopter, as well as a blood refrigerator at the base, was made possible by a $55,000 donation from VicForests to the Helimed auxiliary.

The auxiliary used some of the VicForests donation to provide blood shippers and refrigerators at ambulance helicop-

ter bases in Melbourne, Warrnambool and Bendigo.

Ambulance Victoria is the first paramedic staffed helicopter service in the world to carry blood products to be administered by paramedics.

Ambulance Victoria regional manager Michael Stephenson said in the past blood products from local hospitals were brought to the scene of major accidents.

“Seriously injured people who are bleeding from wounds or bleeding internally can deteriorate quickly,” he said.

“Blood carries oxygen which is vital for major organs including the brain.

Seriously injured people

will now receive a blood transfusion in the field and whilst enroute to hospital.”

The blood shipper was put onto the helicopter on February 23, and was used within hours to treat a 21 year-old woman who was critically injured when her motorcycle collided with a van.

She remains in a critical but stable condition at The Alfred hospital.

VicForests media and communications manager David Walsh said they are pleased to be involved.

“VicForests is very proud to support Victoria’s air ambulance services and we know this world-first program will save lives,” he said.

Method less travelled FOR Frenchman Florian Le Bail it’s not so much about the road less travelled, but the method by which he travels it.

Florian was last seen by the Star around the foothills of Toora, rollerblading along the South Gippsland Highway, and pushing all his worldly possessions in something that was very much like a bike (but quite unlike a bike at the same time – for it had no gears and its handlebars had been moved to the rear).

The intrepid traveller was on his way to Cairns. Florian had recently stepped off the plane from New Zealand and was looking for his next big adventure.

Why travel 5000km along the east coast of Australia to far north Queensland?

He laughed at the question.

“Why? I’ve always enjoyed travelling and meeting people. People are very curious. It’s very nice. I have twice stayed in the homes of Australian people along this journey,” he said.

Here we go: with all his possessions packed into a modified bicycle Florian Le Bail set out on an epic rollerblade journey.

Dedication rewarded STAFF from the Headway Gippsland Support Program for people with an acquired brain injury (operating in Wonthaggi) travelled to Trafalgar to pay tribute to Marian Adams recently.

She has been employed

by Headway Gippsland for 25 years.

Headway now has five social support programs operating in Gippsland and Marian has the honour of being the longest serving employee.

During the 25 years, Marian has been dedicated in her role of caring for the vulnerable people attending

her program.

She is very thorough in her planning and reporting and has been willing to do volunteer hours when the need arose.

Marian was presented with a certificate of appreciation and a rose bush from the committee of management, staff and members of Headway.

World first: Ambulance Victoria regional manager Michael Stephenson, VicForests David Walsh and Helimed team manager Peter Davidson with members of the Helimed Auxiliary and the new blood shipper on the helicopter.

Take up challenge: Olympian FORMER Leongatha Olympian Cameron McKenzieMcHarg is urging parents to exercise with their children.

One in six Victorians aged over 15 years does not participate in any physical activity and 23 per cent of Victorian secondary school students are considered overweight or obese.

Mr McKenzie-McHarg has joined with Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty in urging all Victorians to sign up to the Premier’s Active Families Challenge.

The challenge asks individuals and families across the state to take part in 30 minutes of physical activity for

30 days over a six week period from March 19 to April 30. Registrations are open until April 1.

Mr McKenzie-McHarg is accepting the challenge and said it is the perfect opportunity to develop healthy exercise habits for the long-term.

“The Premier’s Active Families Challenge encourages Victorian parents to set a good example for their children, and other members of the community, by pledging to participate in just 30 minutes of exercise for 30 days,” he said.

“Not only can participants experience benefits such as weight loss, research also shows when parents take

the time to exercise with their family, children are more likely to participate in sport or exercise by themselves, which could lead to a reduction in childhood obesity.”

Mr Delahunty said exercise was a great way to improve your health and wellbeing, while spending quality time with friends and family.

The challenge is free to join and offers great prizes to those who participate including passes to local YMCAs and Rebel Sport vouchers. For more information and to register for the Premier’s Active Families Challenge visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/ challenge.

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Dumbalk people look to future

By Jacob de Kunder PLANNING for the future was the focus of the Dumbalk community last Thursday night.

Residents of the Dumbalk and district community came together at the Dumbalk Hall to share ideas about the future Dumbalk and District Community Plan.

The plan is part of the Lower Tarwin Valley Project supported by the Gardiner Foundation, GippsDairy and South Gippsland Shire Council.

This project encompasses small communities in the district including Koonwarra, Meeniyan, Venus Bay, Tarwin Lower, Buffalo, Dumbalk, Fish Creek and Stony Creek.

Around 20 residents from the Dumbalk area attended to share their ideas about what is needed and added to an already large list.

Recreation reserve committee and fire brigade members along with parents, Landcare representatives and progress association members all had their say.

Project co-ordinator Marzia Maurilli from South Gippsland Shire Council was joined by sustainability officer Barbara Look to run the workshop.

“This workshop is to find out what are priorities from the community’s point of view,” she said.

“We hope to get at least one community group together and some action happening after tonight.”

The fields of health and wellbeing, sustainability and environment, leisure and recreation, tourism and business, town infrastructure and youth were all touched on.

Attendees were invited to vote on a range of ideas put forward for the town and also add their own.

The future of the old primary

school site and the need for a community centre in the old kindergarten building were topics up for the discussion, as well as the need for more youth activities.

A skate park seemed to be a favoured option while work on the recreation reserve was also a hot topic.

“We’re also hoping to form a youth group in the community to get them more involved in what’s happening in the project,” Ms Maurilli said.

Attendants enjoyed a barbeque before the workshop run by members of the Meeniyan community.

“By having another community in the project cater for these meetings and workshops, it can help them raise money for their own projects,” Ms Maurilli said.

The Meeniyan community is currently looking at sealing the road around the recreation reserve.

Teachers get healthy

By Sarah Vella STAFF at the Leongatha Secondary College are taking part in a 12 week health challenge, instigated by the gym, I Choose Awesome in Inverloch.

Forty staff are taking part in the program, including college principal Brett Windsor.

“We decided that we were going to put a lot of resources into the program, not just to benefit the staff, but also the students,” he said.

“The challenge is about changing lifestyles around healthy eating plans and exercise.

“We have spent a signifi-

Community minded: Dumbalk residents Tracy Tomada and Ed Hanley checked out ideas for the community plan before the workshop.

cant amount of money updating the gymnasium, which is located upstairs in the ECA Centre so it is now of professional quality.”

The program has been underway for just over a week, and is generating a buzz among staff and students.

“Teachers involved are showing a really positive and excited attitude towards the challenge,” Mr Windsor said.

“Healthy, happy staff help the school to run smoothly. It is a bonus for the school in terms of staff morale.

“We are aiming to promote a healthy lifestyle through the kids, to their families and the greater community.”

Tough workout: senior school leader David The school will look at McGillivray pumps iron in Leongatha Secondhiring the gym out to the comary College’s improved gym. munity in the future.

Toora kids create

Planning ahead: Lower Tarwin Valley Project co-ordinator Marzia Maurilli and Dumbalk and District Progress Association president Don Couper chat before the workshop.

Grand prix set for weekend

TOORA Primary School students have been enjoying books by local author Alison Lester as part of their comprehensive literacy program.

For the school’s involvement in the Toora Pear Festival last Sunday, Grades Two and Three students used Ms Lester as their inspiration for artworks displayed throughout the festival.

The class first visited the local heritage pear orchard to take some digital photos. Back in the classroom, the students drew additions for the photos, which they glued over the top. Once laminated, the pictures were weatherproofed and ready to display at the pear orchard during the festival.

Students regularly take part in local shows and events, with many creations made for the Foster Show coming home with ribbons.

Some senior students created posters for the Multicultural Festival held at Morwell recently. The posters were about families and were created using French, the language students learn at school.

FEATURE vehicles will lead off in the lap before the official Wonthaggi Human Powered Grand Prix on March 24-25.

Above: Works of art: students Sophie Allott (left) and Tamara Rip show off the Alison Lester inspired creations for the Toora Pear Festival.

Right: Moo too: even the class cow was inspired by the Toora Pear Festival, as admired by young students Isaac Tanner and Jaxon Lewis.

Swinburne F-SAE Race Car and Hybrid HPV with a replica Bugatti body will show the way, displaying their features ahead of the noon start.

The grand prix will be held at the Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve track, and both cars will be on display before and after to the lap and for most of the HVP, in the food and exhibition area in front of the Wonthaggi pool entrance.

For those enthusiastic, make sure that you come down and view the car and talk to the team about how it works.

The grand prix is a three day event involving primary school and secondary school students racing human powered vehicles over a 1.4km street circuit, including a non-stop 24 hour race for senior students.

The human powered race starts at noon Saturday, runs 24 hours non-stop until the thrilling race finish at noon on Sunday.

Three or four wheeled recumbent vehicles are ridden around a 1.4km street circuit in Wonthaggi.

The race involves teams of eight people, and is a test of endurance for the

vehicles and the competitors.

Competitors will present their vehicles to a panel of judges for scrutineering of safety features before being allowed to race.

On Friday, from 9.30am primary school students are involved in a series of pushcart races with the pushcarts, which are built by the students, are based on the old “billycarts”. Students must be able to dismantle and assemble their pushcart on the day.

On the Saturday, be there early to watch the HPV teams’ warm up laps and see them get ready to commence this spectator orientated sport.

With more than 90 teams, loads of preparation, sweat and effort have been put in and now is the time to put all of that into the 24 hour endurance race.

Throughout the late afternoon and into the night, come down and cheer on the riders. The action gets hotter as the race wears on until the stunning midday finish when the awards are made to the winning teams. Entry to race and festival is free, and all are welcome.

For more details about the whole event or sponsorship, business or community displays visit www.weif.org. auor contact Michelle Evans on 0411 265 401

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 19

Jazz parade livens streets LUCKILY, it didn't rain on the Inverloch Jazz Festival's parade, enabling one of the highlights of the weekend to run along smoothly.

The streets were a buzz of activ-

ity, with children, musicians, and a variety of vehicles making their way through town on Saturday, March 10.

A number of groups and organisations took part to show their love of music, including the Wonthaggi

Citizens Band, Inverloch Pre-School, Wonthaggi Dance Design and Inverloch Primary School.

An impressive crowd gathered on the footpaths to enjoy the music, wave to friends and catch lollies thrown out by the Inverloch Life Saving Club.

Dancing in black and white: Chloe Cengia and Elly Wingfield, both from Wonthaggi, and Jemma Gilmore from Cape Paterson had their pom-poms ready to take part in the parade with Wonthaggi Dance Design.

Above: Inverloch PreSchool: parents and children got into the jazz festival parade spirit by dressing in black and white.

.QRZ \RXU ULJKWV SURWHFW \RXU IXWXUH Above: Playing songs in the Pontiac: an old favourite in the Inverloch Jazz Festival parade, this magenta Pontiac and musical passengers brightened up the black and white theme.

First interview free of charge and REOLJDWLRQ Âą WRWDOO\ FRQÂżGHQWLDO enquiries@simonparsons.com.au

www.simonparsons.com.au

Morwell (03) 5133 7788 | Sale (03) 5144 7788 | Warragul (03) 5622 2387

Right: Saving the parade: Inverloch Surf Lifesaving Club Nippers kept watch for anyone in trouble in the crowds whilst cruising down the main street.

Man in charge: Wonthaggi Citizens Band musical director and drum major, Craig Marinus prepares to lead the masses in the Inverloch Jazz Festival parade.

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Kids in the parade: Inverloch Primary School students donned their boogie boards and dressed up as beach babes.

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Cheerful colour with old fashioned favourites

By Karen Haw, Town Centre Nursery, Mirboo North AUTUMN is a perfect time to get out in the garden.

The weather is generally a lot milder and the soil is still warm, so it is a perfect time to plant and revamp the garden.

Colour is back and at this time of year there are many old time favourites available including some new releases.

Cottage plants such as hollyhocks, foxgloves, larkspurs, delphiniums and columbines (better known as granny bonnets) are available in punnets at this time of year. A new viola available this autumn is viola blue porcelain.

It is a lovely combination of violet blue, true blue and creamy white flowers with the hybrid viola ability to produce masses of small weather resistant flowers

over a long period of time.

Violas and pansies will flower for a long time and are perfect for hanging baskets. Last year we saw the introduction of spreading pansies and this year there is a new colour to the rangedelicate lavender.

This is also a great time to get into the vegetable garden. There is a heap of veggies that can be planted now.

Available as seedlings are all the green leafy crops such as cabbage, broccoli, kale, cauliflowers, silverbeet, spinach and brussel sprouts.

Early autumn is the best time to plant brussel sprouts.

They are a long season crop that actually tastes better when hit with a slight frost.

Planted now they will be ready for harvest in July.

Another vegetable that is growing in popularity is kale. There are several varieties available but all are rich in iron, calcium, B vitamins and fibre. Like

Autumn colour: pink Japanese anemone or pink wind flowers add life to a garden.

variety with bright pink double flowers.

Another long term flowering plant if Tibouchina Groovy Baby.

This is a compact form of Tibouchina and has large vibrant strong purple flowers. It is very hardy and easy to grow and is perfect for pots.

And of course for color in late winter there are

bulbs: daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, freesias etc available that can be planted from now until late April/May. After all the planting and planning has been done, don’t forget to feed the garden, especially roses, citrus and fruit trees.

Also check citrus for scale and/or sooty mould which is often a problem at this time of year.

If you are looking for a new tree or rose to plant bare root in winter, now is the time to order to ensure of availability.

While it is generally more economical to plant trees as bare root specimens some such as silver birch, crepe myrtles, and lipstick maples are better value in pots and can be successfully planted now.

10 quick jobs for autumn Simply addition: new viola blue porcelain are great for the garden and in pots or baskets. brussel sprouts a touch of frost results in a mild, sweet flavour that complements many dishes.

Other seedling vegetables include beetroot, lettuce, leeks and onions.

Seeds that can be planted now include carrots, turnips, parsnips and the ever popular broad beans.

Home-grown carrots are so much sweeter and more flavourful than supermarket carrots and for something different try purple carrots.

The trick with carrots is just getting them started.

They can take awhile to germinate, and simply will not do so if the soil dries out.

The seed bed must be kept consistently moist until the seeds germinate. The best way to do this is to lay either hessian or moist cardboard over the bed after you sow the seeds.

Check daily and remove the covering once the seeds have sprouted. When growing vegetables always

practice crop rotation – do not grow the same thing in the same place two to three years in a row or you can get a build up of that plant’s diseases and nutrient deficiencies in that spot.

Always condition the soil prior to planting with compost, lime or dolomite, manure or pelletised organic fertiliser or blood and bone.

There are many shrubs that will give a lift and splash of colour to the garden at this time of year.

Japanese anemone is another old time favorite more commonly known as windflower that flowers profusely in autumn.

Flowers look delicate and come as single or double in white, pink or mauve shades. This plant is super hardy and will grow and flower with very little care and with the other advantage they also flower well in shaded situations. Anemone pamina is a new compact

1. Lightly 1.

Lighhtlly trim Li trim tr im citrus cit itru ruus trees tree tr eees to ees to shape sha hape ape pe and feed an feeed to to encourage ennco cour urag ur agee a better, ag beett bett tter er, er r, bushier busshhieer bush bu and shappe and annd encourage enco en coour urag agee better ag bbeett etter ttter fruiting ffruuit itin ingg over in over er shape winter. Spray with white oil or eco oil.

2. Feed native plants with a suitable native fertiliser. A little feeding now will improve the quality and quantity of the flowering. Prune lightly now to encourage a bushier shape.

3. Plant now for a winter display. A few seedlings or bulbs or a winter flowering perennial planted now will pay off big time in winter. A couple of pansies or violas in a pot will go a long way.

4. Watch out for aphids on new growth of Camellia – spray with Confidor if new growth is distorted. Feed with complete all purpose fertiliser or Azalea Camellia fertiliser to maximise flowering.

5. Plant some winter vegies. Improve the soil and plant something you’re happy to eat.

6. Helleborus. Helleborus start growing in autumn once the temperature falls below 25º. The summer foliage can look a bit tatty so prune off all the foliage to force fresh new growth and the flowers present a lot better. Maybe some snail pellets to protect new growth.

7. Feed Gardenias now with a suitable fertiliser. The buds formed in the autumn are for the main big flowering flush in November and December.

M ain i ta taiin regular reggullar ar watering water ter e in ing and ing and look lookk out outt Maintain forr wr fo w wrin rinkl nk y ne nnew w ggrowth row owth thh – iitt me m ean anss an an wrinkly means aaphid phi hid infestation; infe fest fe stat st atio at ion; ion io n; spray sprayy with with Confi Confi Co nfiddor. orr.

8. Compost. Lots of readily available material for compost: autumn leaves, grass clippings and leafy green prunings. If you haven’t got a bin then just put in a pile out of the way or dig a hole and bury it where you plan to grow vegies or flowers next spring. The crucial factor is a mix of dry and wet (carboniferous and nitrogenous) ingredients, a liberal seasoning of blood and bone and if you can be bothered, regular forking over/aerations to stimulate harder working aerobic bacteria (break down compost five to six times quicker than anaerobic bacteria (smelly non-oxygen using bacteria)).

9. If you haven’t already done so then lightly trim (too late for serious prune) your roses now and feed before end of first week of March to get a last late flush of flowers before winter.

10. Replace an ugly, underperforming plant with something that makes you happy. A garden needs constant replenishing and rejuvenation in both plants and soil conditioning. Plants get old and tired or are basically just wrong and will drag down others around it.

It’s always better to have a small new positive than a big old negative.

Gardeners vital in fruit fly fight VICTORIA is experiencing one of its worst Queensland fruit fly (QFF) seasons on record and home gardens are becoming vital battlegrounds in the fight against the pest.

State fruit fly director Gary D’Arcy said more than 130 outbreaks had been detected in the past 12 months.

“Due to the immense number of QFF outbreaks this year we are asking residents to help DPI by caring for their gardens while DPI focus our efforts on helping industry,” he said.

“Home gardeners within QFF outbreak areas are critical to these efforts.

“QFF is one of the world’s worst pests of fruit and most, including stone fruit, citrus, berries, tomatoes and capsicums, can be affected.

“Residents across the state can help reduce the impact of QFF.”

If you have fruit trees in your yard you should: • prune them regularly, keeping the tops of the trees at a manageable height; • regularly inspect your home-grown fruit for the presence of maggots; • remove any ripe fruit from your trees before it falls to the ground; and • don’t take any fruit from your property without processing it (eg by cooking first).

If you suspect there is QFF in your fruit you should: • collect and dispose of fallen fruit on an ongoing basis. Fruit infested with QFF can be disposed of in a sealed plastic bag, which is either left in the sun for five to seven days or placed in a freezer for two days. This will destroy the maggots and prevent adult flies from developing. The bagged fruit can then be discarded in your garbage bin; • compost carefully -do not place unwanted fruit in your compost or

Watch out: gardeners are being urged to watch for Queensland fruit fly. worm farm, or put it directly into your garbage; and • remove any unwanted fruit trees from your property.

The DPI website

www.dpi.vic.gov.au has more information on protecting your fruit trees from a QFF infestation and a variety of treatments available.

The national website

w w w. p r e v e n t f r u i t f l y. com.au also has more detailed information on controlling QFF in the home garden as well as a list of suppliers and resources.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 21

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Nursing students have their day

By Sarah Vella STUDENTS enrolled in the Diploma of Nursing at the Leongatha campus of GippsTAFE had their last day of class last Tuesday.

The 17 students, who started in August 2010, completed 18 months of study and are now eligible to register as enrolled nurses.

Students who have completed this diploma are also able to further their study by two years at university to become registered nurses.

Nursing educator Aimee Kellow said students were excited to be finishing.

“Students enrolled in the Diploma of Nursing through GippsTAFE complete the course not only medication endorsed, but IV medication endorsed as well,” Ms Kellow said.

“This is usually an elective of the course, but at Leongatha it is part of their learning”.

During their course, students com-

pleted 10 weeks of work placement, some visiting aged care facilities and local hospitals including Leongatha, Warragul, Sale and Traralgon.

“The learning facilities at the GippsTAFE’s Leongatha campus are state of the art and the simulated hospital ward gives students an opportunity to gain practical experience without leaving the campus,” Ms Kellow said.

“Some of our students have already applied for graduate positions in a range of hospitals, and are currently involved in the interview process.”

The Leongatha campus of GippsTAFE is holding an information evening tomorrow (Wednesday) night at 7pm, for the Diploma of Nursing course and for the Certificate III in Aged Care course. The evening will give students interested in enrolling valuable information, as well as a chance to meet GippsTAFE staff and see the campus. Anyone interested in attending the information evening should contact GippsTAFE on 5662 6800.

Caring students: back row, from left: Mathew Wilby, Monica West, Michelle Richards, Tracey Moran and Amanda Quaife. Middle row: teacher Aimee Kellow, Carly Riddell, teacher Ailsa Rickards, Brittany Ferry, Kristie Cocksedge, Lee-Anne McLean, Montana Hancock, Jaimee McLeod, Caron Jones and Joseph Karipel. Front: Samantha O’Brien, Leanne McLean, Bianca Bow and Susie Trotman.

Boys lose locks for charity THREE brave heads and four brave legs were put on the line for the Leukaemia Foundation at Korumburra Secondary College on Thursday.

The annual Shave for a Cure event was as successful as ever with Daniel O’Flaherty, Mitch Willis and Daniel Clay all putting their hands up to lose their precious locks.

Daniel, a school captain, even left a small tuft on the side of his head to look

different.

Staff members Sam Hughes and Graham Wightman put their legs on the line for a good cause by having a ‘wax off’.

Year 12 girls took to the hairy legs with wax strips in an effort to remove the most hair in the littlest amount of time.

Winces and grimaces from the brave teachers were entertaining for the rest of the school community.

For those not willing to remove their hair, they could donate to the cause and have their hair coloured.

Above: New look: school captain Daniel O’Flaherty, Mitch Willis and Daniel Clay are now sporting a new look for a good cause.

Hot seat: Rick Arestia had the pleasure of shaving Daniel O’Flaherty, along with other boys.

Mayor’s message Cr Warren Raabe MAKING change in local government can be a long and tedious process and there are times when we wonder whether we will achieve a satisfactory outcome during our term of office.

It is the nature of the beast, simply because we need to find out the economic, social and environmental impacts, listen to the community’s views, and ascertain the necessary alignments and approvals with other tiers of government.

I’m pleased to say we seem to be in a harvest period at present when many projects are coming to fruition, the latest of which has been the Planning Minister’s consent for the rezoning of farming land at the Prom Gate.

Local landowner Tom Tootell has long held a vision for an environmentally sensitive international standard accommodation facility on his land at the entrance to the national park, but attempts to attract potential developers were stymied by the zoning - naturally developers and investors want to be reassured that they have the appropriate rights before they progress any

expression of interest.

Council initiated this amendment to assist appropriate development in the region and is pleased to have had the support of both our local member Peter Ryan and the Planning Minister Matthew Guy to enable this project to progress.

The need for quality accommodation for groups interested in nature based activities aligns with the gap in the state’s tourism infrastructure identified by Tourism Victoria.

We look forward to seeing the next phase of this project unfold and are confident it will provide a major economic boost to the Corner Inlet area. It also has great synergies with the Corner Inlet Tourism Development Project.

Council discussed the recent application for coal seam gas exploration in the region and has chosen to adopt a ‘listen and watch’ stance.

At the time of writing we haven’t seen the official advertising for the exploration licence. This process is under the control of the Department of Primary Industries which will assess the application and

any submissions forwarded by the community. Council will continue to monitor the application process as it has done with previous mining exploration licences.

It was another activity-filled long weekend for the shire, with visitors streaming down from the city on Friday night for some rest and recreation. Our thanks go to the SES volunteers that give up their time to man revive stations for weary travellers.

Who knows how many lives they save by these friendly acts of support? The weather perked up as the weekend progressed and markets were crowded with people fossicking for a bargain.

Stony Creek Races attracted a good crowd for the cup. The course was in tip top condition and was a credit to the organisers.

Such pleasant weekends remind us of what a fabulous part of the world we live in and sometimes take for granted.

Warren Raabe, mayor.

Ouch!: Sam Hughes powered through the pain of having his legs waxed to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation

Colour or shave: Year 7 pair Jake Henry and Kevin Farley decided to colour their hair instead of shaving.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 23

Fire danger period over BURNING off is now permitted in South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires.

The Country Fire Authority declared the Fire Danger Period finished at 1am yesterday (Monday, March 19).

Fire Danger Periods are based on local conditions and take into account fuel moistures, fuel loads, grassland curing, weather and rainfall. They are a seasonal declaration.

Information about fire restrictions is available in CFA’s Can I or Can’t I brochure available on the CFA website http://www.cfa.vic. gov.au/restrictions, or by phoning the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (VBIL) 1800 240 667.

Although CFA places only limited restrictions on the lighting of fires in the open air outside of the fire danger period, lighting of fires may be fully or partly restricted under legislation and by-laws administered

by municipalities and Department of Sustainability and Environment.

A person who lights a fire in dangerous weather or fuel conditions or lights a fire that damages another person’s property whether intentionally or not is guilty of a serious crime.

Although the fire danger period is ending, it is important the community take extreme care when burning off.

If a fire is left unattended in windy conditions it can spread quickly and can burn into bushland or onto neighbours’ properties.

• check local by-laws before burning off; • never leave a burnoff unattended; • tell your neighbours and call the Vicfire Burn Off Line on 1800 668 511 so that brigades don’t get called out to burnoffs unnecessarily; and • check the weather forecast before you burnoff - never burnoff in

dry, hot, windy conditions Some larger sized fires over the past few weeks, particularly the recent grassfire near Ararat, highlight the importance of being fire ready and always remaining vigilant.

CFA chief officer Euan Ferguson said although there had been wet conditions and flooding in Victoria, the recent grassfires demonstrated how quickly fires could take hold.

“Grassfires travel faster than you can run. They can threaten properties and even kill,” he said.

“People should have a fire plan and prepare for the event of fire never be complacent.”

To download a Fire Ready Kit, complete the Household Bushfire Self Assessment or find the location of Fire Ready meetings in your area visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.

Smith boosts park fund A COMMUNITY park is closer to being established in an Inverloch street.

Residents continue to raise funds to enhance the Wallace Avenue Community Park.

Bass Coast Shire Councillor Ross Smith met with some residents, who have plans to develop the park.

Cr Smith allocated $500 from his Councillor Ward Discretionary Fund to the project.

Inverloch Rotary Club had already offered the Wallace Avenue project the use of its sausage sizzle at the Rotary market held in January. The community raised $584 as a result.

Rotary then donated another $500 and the seed fund now stands at $1584.

The Wallace Avenue Community Park is part of a trade-off of public open space, following the development some years ago of Apex Park in William Street, for units dedicated for the elderly.

The planning group aims to develop the park so it can be enjoyed

Coming together: Cr Ross Smith chats with Matilda Johnstone, 4, Sarah Vradenburg, 13, Barb Langstone, Cameron Butler, Norm and Judy Vradenburg, and Michael Vradenburg, 8, about the Wallace Avenue Community Park. by people of all ages across the whole Inverloch community.

Council has agreed to the installation of a large dinosaur seat and sculpture.

Donations and enquiries in support of the project should be made to Judy Vradenburg, either at PO Box 158, Inverloch or by telephoning her on 5674 3666.

Remarkable day: Lorna White, Judy Delahoy, Peggy Marriner, Wendy McBurnie, Carol Hurst, guest speaker Jeanette Gann, Liz Watkins, Sharne Scholte, Julie De Bondt and Kath Taylor at The World Day of Prayer Service.

Christians unite at Inverloch THE Inverloch community celebrated The World Day of Prayer Service recently.

Special guest was Jeanette Gann, a Chinese Malay now working in Melbourne as a maternal and child

welfare nurse.

During her life as a Christian, she has worked in Pakistan as a missionary.

The event at The Church of the Ascension was attended by people of all Christian faiths.

Power watered down THE Victorian Government has moved to wind back powers given to the state’s water authorities.

Parliamentary debate began last week on legislation that will end the power of water corporations to sell a customer’s land to pay outstanding water bills.

“The law currently gives regional water authorities the power to sell a customer’s land if they haven’t paid their water bills,” Water Minister Peter Walsh said.

“Water authorities can also call on a tenant to pay their rent to the water corporation if a landlord hasn’t paid their water bills.

“The Victorian Government has introduced legislation into the Victo-

rian Parliament to remove these over the top debt recovery powers.”

The Water Amendments (Governance and Other Reforms) Bill 2012 also narrows water corporations’ powers to require a property owner to connect to water and sewerage systems.

“Under current law water authorities can force a landholder to connect to their water and sewerage network,” Mr Walsh said.

“The legislation under debate in Parliament will mean water authorities only have the power to mandate connections to a sewerage system as is necessary to protect public health or the environment.”

Mr Walsh said further amendments strengthened an occupier’s right to privacy.

“Water authorities currently have more power than the police to enter residential land,” he said.

“The legislation will require water corporations and catchment management authorities to give the property owners or tenants seven days notice before entering land.

“The exceptions to this are if the officer is reading meters, inspecting septic tank systems, responding to emergencies or crossing residential land to access and operate irrigation infrastructure.”

Mr Walsh said the changes were in line with the Victorian Government’s election commitment to deliver water services in a transparent and accountable manner.

Mayor’s message Cr Veronica Dowman

Veteran to speak at Inverloch A VIETNAM veteran who has written a book about his experiences will speak in Inverloch on Friday, March 30.

Barry Heard wrote Well Done Those Men, The View from Connor’s Hill and Tag, and promises an insightful reflection of the war.

Well Done Those Men: Memoirs of a Vietnam Veteran is the autobiography of a conscript in Australia’s first national service ballot.

It has sold more than 20,000 copies and is used as an English text in many Australian schools.

Well Done Those Men was the Victorian winner for the National Year of Reading 2012 and was also the Victorian State Library Summer Read in 2007.

Barry’s short stories have received seven awards and his book The View from Connor’s Hill won the gold medallion for Victorian Government History award 2007.

Friends of the Inverloch Library’s Come and Meet session featuring Barry Heard will be held in the Inverloch Library on Friday, March 30, starting with wine and cheese at 5.30pm.

Entry fee of $5 is payable at the door. Contact Libby Haynes on 56742157 or Wendy Stevens on 56743819 if you are planning to attend, or add your name to the sign-up sheet at the Inverloch Library.

Revealing speaker: author Barry Heard will speak at the Inverloch Library.

MANY people may not realise that council has a commitment to Public Health and Wellbeing Planning, which is part of the overall Council Plan 2009 -2013.

According to the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008, “A council must review its municipal public health activities annually and if appropriate amend the plan”.

I attended a policy workshop last week to hear how we are progressing with the plan.

Health and wellbeing involves many things such as managing our physical health, being able to socialise and take part in community life.

While the health department’s role is to provide health services to care for us when we get sick, council’s focus is on promoting wellness. This involves using research to understand what services and

activities are available in our community, and what needs improving. So how was our score card this year?

Research shows that council provides many recreational facilities and programs that foster social inclusion and active, healthy lifestyles. What could improve is better coordination and promotion of some services and programs.

The research highlighted statistics that need some targeted work. Bass Coast has high rates of Type 2 Diabetes, ranking in the top three rural municipalities in Victoria. Obesity and heart rates are also unacceptably high.

Deaths caused by tobacco smoking in Bass Coast are slightly higher than the Victorian average and Electronic Gaming Machine (EGM) spending has skyrocketed during the past year.

Research also shows that

in general, people in Bass Coast don’t eat enough fruit and vegetables or get enough exercise.

Council is keen to help people live a healthier lifestyle and recently secured $566,000 in Commonwealth Government funding to run the Healthy in Bass Coast Program. This will involve rolling out programs to encourage us to be more active and to eat a healthier diet.

The Go Fresh Go Local is one program funded by the State Government that aims to make fresh fruit and vegetables more readily available, particularly at your local general store and other venues across Bass Coast.

I encourage you to look out for further promotion of these initiatives and get involved.

Cr Veronica Dowman, mayor.

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Helping hands: Kristy, Oliver and Claudia Leys from Inverloch build a penguin home at the Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Community Open Day.

Music in the vineyards: Inverloch musician Peter Hall entertained winers and diners during a woodfired pizza afternoon at Lyrebird Hills Winery in Koonwarra.

Meeting people: Hudson Ford with Penny Penguin and ranger Sabrina Feibig at the Penguin Parade.

Rare find: Colin Andrews believes there are only two Rambler Royces in existence, with his located right here in Leongatha. Based on a design of an early 1930s model, this Rambler Royce was first registered in 1976.

Green machine: Shane Cordnar form Moe gets ready to take off in his HX GTS Monaro.

Hands on: Peter Ryan and 1st Mirboo North Scout Group leader Rachel Wilson shake on the funding deal for the town’s Scout Hall.

New vision: Dr Irene Irvine and Ken Smith launch the strategic plan for Phillip Island Nature Parks.

One for women: Bass Coast Shire Council mayor Cr Veronica Dowman was joined by a great crowd of local ladies, from left: Robyn James, Noelene Evans, Beverley Congues, Gail Hawking, Phylis Macklin,Toni MacElhenny, Cr Dowman, Chris Jacobsen, Marlene Robbins and Jenny Maroney at Archies on the Creek.

Show'n'Shine in Leongatha: Rotarian and event organiser John O'Connor, with fellow Rotarian Nick Dudley were happy to award Peter Mayo from Yarram with Exhibitor's Choice and Best Entry in the Show.

Women do lunch: Bass Coast Shire councillors Jane Daley and mayor Veronica Dowman caught up with local musician Bernadette Carol and Jo Ablett at the special World Women’s Day lunch at Archies on the Creek.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 25

• Show’n’Shine at Leongatha • International Women’s Day at Archies on the Creek • Mirboo North Scout Hall funding announcement • Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Community Open Day

• Japanese Day at Newhaven College • Inverloch Jazz Festival • Social day at Inverloch Bowls Club • Pizzas at Lyrebird Winery, Koonwarra

Hootin' and tootin': children from the Inverloch Pre-School 'play' their home- Leading the parade: musicians in the Wonthaggi Citizens Band make their way along The Esplanade. made clarinets whilst taking part in the parade.

Dancing in the street: Wonthaggi Dance Design members got into the theme of the parade by dancing to Michael Jackson's Black and White.

Yokoso: Bonnie Dickie, Kipp Stratmann, Taylah Cook, Ellie Pearce, Madison Steet, Jacinta Dainty, Tex Broadbear and Corey McLeod welcomed parents to their special Japanese Day at Newhaven College.

Oriental style: teacher Holly Marr and her class had a lot of fun on Japanese Day at Newhaven College.

Go girls: Shirley Phillipson, Margaret Goss and Jean Burrows enjoyed the social day at Inverloch Bowls Club recently.

Year 3: Harry Jobe, Seth Rongrose, Maddison Stare, Tabetha Bond, kabuki star and teacher Simon Furniss, Charlotte Yarranton, Ben Lock, Mackinley Thompson enjoyed dressing up Japanese style at Newhaven College.

Friends: Newhaven College junior school students Cahrlie Healey, Ella Johnson, Cailin Robinson, Rachel Manning, Ella Hawking and Imogen Bradley enjoyed their Japanese Day.

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Construction wait over at Carinya

By Simone Short THE first sod has finally been turned on Carinya Lodge’s multi-million dollar project after a 20-year battle.

South Gippsland Shire Council recently approved a planning permit for 27 independent living units to be built at the Korumburra aged care facility, with the estimated total cost of the project to be $6.5 million.

Carinya Lodge’s secretary and manager Clyde Paterson said only six units will be built in the first stage with no government funding available for the project; funds have therefore been raised by the voluntary committee of management through donations from the public and surplus funds saved over a number of years.

“The current stage one of the project will build all of the roads, drainage, sewerage and infrastructure plus up to six two bedroom units,” he said.

“These units are spacious with en suites and enclosed lock up garages, and are specially designed to cater for senior residents in our community.”

The first day of work has been long awaited by the committee, with the site, five acres of land, first acquired from the late FJ “Digger” Farrell in 1992.

Plans were drawn up and water and sewerage designs were prepared by the Korumburra Water Board, however the project experienced a considerable set back in

1994-95 when the preliminary plans were lost after the amalgamation of the shire and the transfer of the Water Board to Foster.

“Carinya had to have the plans re-drawn with the help of several donations from the public,” Mr Paterson said.

Despite having the full support of the former Korumburra Shire Council, Mr Paterson said new shire council planning department was “much less enthusiastic”, and “many hurdles have had to be jumped”, especially with the discovery the land was zoned as rural.

After a three-year rezoning battle and an original planning application for 57 units rejected, the final sign off on plans and specifications occurred on February 8.

Now the project is under way, the building committee at Carinya has been busy putting the final touches to design plans for the first six units.

Mr Paterson said low rental housing is in strong demand in Korumburra as many people seek to downsize their blocks and move into new units with all the conveniences and no future maintenance costs.

“The ongoing contribution for the units has not been decided by the committee at this stage, but is expected to be less than $80,000, with rentals set at less than $80 per week,” he said.

“This allows people planning retirement the chance to downsize without spending all their capital.”

Construction underway: Carinya Lodge’s committee of management members were relieved to finally get work started on six independent living units. From left: Lynne Perks, president Ian Wilson, building committee chairman Max Hall, Carinya secretary and manager Clyde Paterson, Euan Coutts and Doug Boston.

McBride School Leaders: Caleb Hooke, Jethro Cooney, Ebony Dwyer and Liz Mulqueeny were congratulated by campus principal Darren Parker for being elected into their new leadership positions.

School leaders elected THE McBride Campus Student Leadership Team was congratulated by students, staff and family members recently at an assembly in Webb’s Shed at Wonthaggi Secondary College.

The guest speakers on the day, college principal Garry Dennis and assistant college principal Gay Findlay, not

only congratulated those students formally elected to the various leadership positions, but also challenged all members of the college community to ensure they worked together to continue to create a collaborative school culture where all involved would lead by example.

College, Year 11 and Year 10 leaders were elected, as well as sports and arts captains.

New sand pit a winner STUDENTS at Wonthaggi North Primary have an exciting new addition to their playground: a brand new sandpit.

Children have been busy during their play-time digging for treasure, mak-

ing super freeways and building futuristic castles.

The sandpit replaces the old one removed with the building of the new classrooms, and is certainly bigger and better.

The sandpit is over 64 square metres and is covered by a carport that pro-

vides a permanent shelter from sun and rain.

The school would like to thank the CFMEU for donating the carport structure, and also school staff and parents who helped to make the sandpit such a success.

Fun in the sand: Abigail Claessen, Deng Akech, Tenneil Riley-Parrott, William Stevens, Noah Anderson, Tess Wingfield, and Coby Chandler are all smiles in Wonthaggi North Primary’s brand new sand pit.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 27

Spacious farmlet with stunning views

WITH four bedrooms and plenty of land, this Kardella farmlet is perfectly suited to a large family.

Available through SEJ. See page 28 for details.

PAGE 28 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Ideal first home V

ERY Y neat and tidy brick veneer home featuring three bedrooms, all with bedrooms built-in-robes.

INVERLOCH Location: 6 Stewart St Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Price: $365,000 Agent: Alex Scott and Staff, Inverloch Contact: 5674 1111

A solidly built home, with plenty of work space in the kitchen, which has loads of cupboards plus a large pantry.

Open plan kitchen with dining and lounge rooms, security system plus outside security blinds.

A two car carport plus huge lock up garage/workshop and garden shed.

Also includes a water tank, fernery and a very low maintenance garden.

This home would be ideal as an investment property or for a first home buyer.

Kardella farmlet the complete package T

HE options are endless with this spacious home, which would suit a large family or dual occupancy.

There are four bedrooms, two bathrooms

with one situated off a large separate living area with kitchenette.

This country style home has open plan living, and wood and gas heating to keep you toasty warm in the colder months.

Wide verandahs and a

large deck are the perfect places to relax at the end of a long day and give a feeling of space, particularly with the stunning views.

The property has a three bay machinery shed, adjoining workshop and

there is also a separate building that could be used as a studio/office/games room.

Situated on approximately 31 acres plus a further seven acre lease land, there is ample water, spring fed dam, stockyards and Coal Creek frontage.

The central location to Leongatha and Korumburra makes this farmlet the complete package and is exceptional value at $595,000.

KARDELLA Location: 90 Stevens Road Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Land Size: 31 acres plus 7 acre lease Price: $595,000 Agent: SEJ Real Estate Contact 5662 4033

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 29

BERRYS CREEK

LEONGATHA

LEONGATHA

ACT NTR al O C ER tion UND First Na y for tr Call Coun isal!!

Prom E appra E a FR

ACT NTR le O C ER esty UND ther Lif ted!!

Ano ty Wan er Prop

MIRBOO NORTH

ACT NTR a O C ER ath UND e Leong per ties Mor ial Pro dent nted!! e R si Wa

ACT NTR al O C ER tion UND First Na y to tr Call Coun r ty!!

Prom r prope u o list y

4 acres, views of thousands!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Funky Townâ&#x20AC;? Resort House!

Elusive Town Acre

Meat and/or Potatoes?

Stunning outlooks, beautifully maintained, expansive family home comprising 4 beds, 2 baths, 3 living areas, double brick garage & workshop, neat gardens.

330 Mt Vernon Road $430,000 - $450,000

Stunning, concrete rendered, brick special.

Featuring living areas with balcony overlooking IG pool, renovated kitchen, 2 bathrooms; study, 3 bedrooms, lower level rumpus and laundry.

29 Blackmore Avenue $350,000

Highly appealing property. Soaring ceilings, quadruple garage (internal access). Roomy kitchen, sitting room, lounge & dining, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Level access.

3a Sawyer Street $425,000 - $450,000

124 acre farm amongst the best available. Red & chocolate soils, near-level to gently undulating pasture, well fenced, abundant water from 3 dams, 18meg water right, huge shed.

265 Boolarra - Mirboo North Road $875,000 - $925,000

MIRBOO NORTH

MIRBOO NORTH

MIRBOO NORTH

INSPECT Sun 12-12.30pm

MIRBOO NORTH

INSPECT Sun 1-1.30pm

INSPECT Sun 12-12.30pm

kaz hughes

0417 516 998

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

Adorable acre on edge of town

All is Well with the World

Classic Charm, Current Comfort

Set in a pretty garden, this unpretentious 3BR cottage imbues a relaxed & cosy feel. Features include 2 living rooms, one opening to a rear deck, gorgeous views, plus space for a pony.

161 Baromi Road $260,000 - $280,000

The compact home, on its charming half-acre allotment, is quite young, but very fussy owners have re-invented it to better-than-new, with ?

@

167 Baromi Road $285,000 - $310,000

In a cottage garden setting near schools & shops, this tastefully renovated 4BR Victorian home combines period elegance with all the mod cons incl ducted heating & SS. appliances.

14 Giles Street $350,000 - $370,000

Nearing completion, this 2BR townhouse will impress with its bright, open-plan living, tasteful colour scheme, stainless steel appliances, gorgeous spa bath & private courtyard garden.

Unit 15, 19-21 Thorpdale Road $250,000 - $275,000

MEENIYAN

HALLSTON INSPECT Sun 12-12.30pm

allen bartlett

0417 274 624

On the Grand Ridge Tourist Road - a gentle 14 acre haven

Andyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizzeria - Meeniyan Business Opportunity

K

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plus large study, two separate living areas, beautiful plantings and a stunning red earth backdrop plus dam, shedding, and all on a bitumen road.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Meeniyan eateries trend with the purchase of an

($

equipment secure lease, with updated rear facilities incl storage, toilet and connection to sewer. )

*+) / % : ;;

< =

$

$

2450 Grand Ridge Road

106 Whitelaw Street

$490,000 - $525,000

$55,000 (Neg) WIWO

KOONWARRA

LEONGATHA INSPECT Sun 11-11.30am

INSPECT Sun 1.30-2pm

lisa williams

0438 133 385

Walk Ride Run Trot Scoot! And Cute to Boot!

Directly opposite the Rail Trail, a quick, near level ZIP to the shops! Perfectly positioned and

'

dining, kitchen with plenty of cupboard and bench space, laundry and rear deck. A beautiful brand new bathroom is already in place â&#x20AC;&#x201C; soak up the suds in luxury! Three spacious bedrooms, double carport, small garden shed and neat easy care gardens. In all, a well priced good value home.

18 Greenwood Parade

$225,000 - $235,000

NEW LISTING

LEONGATHA INSPECT Thu 6.30-7pm

janine pepyat

0409 292 808

Be still, my beating heart!

Country character on Koonwarra acre

Prepare to be besotted with this exquisite, executive town residence! The expansive interior of

" # $ $

% tastes in colours, layout and appointment. 2 living areas, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double garage, al fresco dining. Ducted cooling, natural gas, side street access, walk to shops, schools and golf course. Position, quality, size, character and inclusions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; value is assured, satisfaction is guaranteed!

gorgeous character residence. The epitome of country charm and looking like a photo shoot straight out of Country Style, it is ideal either as a posh weekender, or the perfect permanent property with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, small dam and easy care plantings. Tall ceilings,

63 Roughead Street

10 Bacon Avenue

Mirboo Nth

$465,000 - $485,000

5668 1660

www.promcountryre.com.au Prom Country

@fnpromcountry

$500,000 - $550,000

5662 3100

Leongatha

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Marvellous Meeniyan – 1300sqm block T

HERE’S a really cute, neat, sweet, three bedroom house at the end of Meeniyan-town, beside a treed reserve (just near the turnoff to Fish Creek).

Here you can enjoy the conveniences of town life-

style, but still get to wake up and sniff the eucalypts and have brekky with the kookaburras.

There’s room for a lamb or a pony in the fenced off back paddock, and a fenced house yard for the dog or the kiddies.

Bathroom and laundry are well sized, kitchen is

practical and has an adjoining meals space, there are blinds, and the home is well maintained.

Room to build a shed in the back yard too – or right up the back in the pony paddock – and store your mechanical pets there instead!

Featuring polished

boards, split system air conditioner, rear pergola, new fences and rear lane access.

Already connected to the new Meeniyan sewerage system.

Easy to simply move in, or invest and rent out.

Gimme a home among the gum trees!

MEENIYAN Location: 17 Whitelaw Street Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 Price: $220,000$240,000 Agent: Prom Country First National Contact: Kaz Hughes on 0417 516 998

Builders offering even more choice LOCAL builders Don and Trent Allen have just released another 11 home designs to their range, so clients now have over 90 standard designs to choose

from for their dream home.

Each home design is also flexible and can be modified by using the Home Planner on the Hotondo Homes website, or by visiting your local builder who is always

more than happy to sit down and help you create your perfect home.

Father and son team, Don and Trent own the Hotondo Homes franchise in the Inverloch and Leongatha areas.

There is a range of home designs to include ideal homes for first home buyers, family homes, investment homes and coastal inspired architectural homes.

No matter on your lifestyle, family or budget, the Allens are able to build you the perfect home to suit your individual needs and requirements.

Smaller homes feature three bedrooms and open plan living areas, while larger family homes feature four bedrooms with multiple living areas.

Coastal inspired homes are architecturally stun-

ning with striking lines, and investment homes are functional and versatile to suit a wide audience.

Because all home designs are flexible, you can start with one design and modify it to suit your personal needs, including your budget.

One of the new designs perfect for first home buyers, young families or investors is the Northcote 163.

The Northcote 163 is very reasonably priced and features three bedrooms, a large open plan kitchen, meals and family area, 2 bathrooms, plus a double car garage.

When you build with Hotondo Homes, you receive the personal touch that you can only get from a local builder. The Allens pride themselves on always being contactable throughout the entire building process to answer any questions that you may have.

Don and Trent support the local community and economy by using local trades and services.

You can contact Don, Trent and their team by calling (03) 5674 3058, or visit their office located at 2 Ramsey Boulevard, Inverloch.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 31

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Highly sought after location A

WELL presented solid brick home situated in an excellent location only a block away from the shops.

This home sits on a huge site of 1230 square metres with a handy rear lane access.

It features three bedrooms, the master with en suite, modern timber kitchen with quality appliances including electric oven, dishwasher and gas cook top.

A separate lounge and dining plus a large family room are perfectly suited for entertaining

with a natural gas log fire and reverse cycle airconditioning.

The back yard is enormous with a private undercover barbecue area, established gardens with numerous fruit trees and a substantial lock up shed at the rear.

This property would make a great investment with future unit potential subject to council approval, or excellent family or retirement home.

Just a hop, skip and a jump to all of Leongatha’s amenities.

LEONGATHA Location: 13 Watt Street Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Car spaces: 1 Price: $369,000 Agent: Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha Contact: 5662 5800

Experienced team at Stockdale Stockdale and Leggo Mirboo North is excited about the year ahead having had an excellent start to 2012.

Your team of local experts has a wealth of local knowledge, second to none in the area.

Kerryn Kyne, who grew up in the Mirboo North area, has been buying and selling investment properties for over 20 years.

She has a proven record of selecting the right property as an investment in order to increase capital value and to maximise returns.

Alan McCluskey has been in the local area for 29 years.

He has previously worked in the real estate

The team at Stockdale and Leggo Mirboo North: Rhonda Newston, Alan McCluskey and Kerryn Kyne all have extensive knowledge of the local area and can help with all your real estate needs. industry for over five years, before leaving to set up his own business, successfully within the building industry.

He possesses extensive knowledge of building values and is excited to be back in the real estate community.

Both Kerryn and Alan offer a friendly and honest approach and have been well received in the Mirboo North township as

their local agents.

Rhonda Newton also grew up in the area and has a wealth of local knowledge.

Previously employed in real estate sales, she has embraced her position with enthusiasm and diligence and has the support of our experienced property management team.

Her aim, along with Kerryn and Alan, is to provide friendly, honest and efficient customer service.

Our new team offers a fresh approach to your real estate needs; we also offer free, no obligation property appraisals.

You are invited to call in or ring our office on 5668 1300 and discuss any real estate matters with one of our team.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 33

Meeniyan business opportunity A CCORDING to the Mercurio’s Menu website, “Paul and the crew had a great time in a quaint little village called Meeniyan, where there’s a fantastic pizza shop in town called Andys’ Pizza.

It rivals any in the city and Andy uses all homemade, local produce.”

Take full advantage of this fantastic publicity that is online for all to see, as well as the outstanding success of Moo’s at Meeniyan, where that too has also demonstrated the potential to do really well in Meeniyan if you are prepared to offer great service and good food!

Thousands pass daily by the Andy’s Pizzeria door in the summer months, and many are dragged inside by the garlic and chilli aromas and cool tunes that make their way to the street.

Offering casual indoor and al fresco dining, with a BYO license, Andy’s Pizzeria offers the scintillating opportunity for a “lifestyle income” and the flexibility to continue with these great operating hours or pick up the pace all week long!

The vendors are offering to help out while you settle in, and they are open to a “Vendor Terms” arrangement if needed.

Trial period is also available. A secure lease exists.

Regular Meeniyan Hall attractions, plus amazing tourist traffic bypassing the door, and a loyal local customer base will ensure you have all the opportunities you need to grow this ground-floor opportunity.

If you have always wanted to do this, now’s the time: the vendors are ready to talk business.

Please call Kaz at First National Prom Country Real Estate on 5662 3100 with your initial enquiries.

MEENIYAN Location: 106 Whitelaw Street Price: $55,000 (Neg.) WIWO Agent: Prom Country First National Contact: Kaz Hughes on 0417 516 998

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

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

You may tighten your friendship circle. A friend repays a favour in an unexpected way. Romance is favoured, but be sure to opt for a light touch.

TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

Romance and new friendships begin. The weekend is favourable for property matters. Domestic hassles may be unavoidable on Thursday but things come right by the weekend.

GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

The weekend focuses on cultural activities. A friend may become surprisingly congenial but may dominate more of your time than you wish. Friday favours the planning of financial goals.

CANCER - June 22 - July 22

This is a very social week in which you meet individuals from unusual walks of life. Be sure not to ignore such practical matters as physical checkups and financial planning.

LEO - July 23 - August 22

Short trips are accented and include the possibility of making a key contract. A hobby could lead to new friendship. In romance, your partner is more decisive and more understanding.

VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

Trust more to memos than to your memory. The week sees you putting in overtime and earning a small bonus or promotion. A health program could require a comprehensive review.

LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

Your encouragement goes a long way in helping a younger friend become more self confident. A difficult assignment, professionally handled, may prove the ticket to a lucrative job.

SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

Decisions over a family matter should be finalised. Financial news could prove surprisingly bright this week and your ingenuity pays off in a career or community related project.

SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

You master the art of compromise. In friendship or romance, this could be the start of a new chapter. Watch extremes in areas of diet, health and exercise.

CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

This is a great week for embarking on new career activities and for clearing up romantic misunderstandings. Legal matters may dominate more time than you hoped for this week.

AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

Last minute changes to your schedule keeps you on your toes all week.

Reunions are highlighted during the weekend. New relationships are on a steadier course.

PISCES - February 20 - March 20

This week could see you taking on new responsibilities at home or at work. A friend may be overly dependent, even possessive. A self improvement program starts to show results.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are creative and enthusiastic and you inspire others to realise their potential. You are flighty too, and are known to abandon a task midstream in favour of a more exciting one. An on again, off again project may reach a happy finale within the next few months. The key is a combination of hard work and leadership.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8317

Church Times ANGLICAN: Wednesday, March 21: 9.30am Woorayl Lodge HC; 10.15am Koorooman House HC; 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Sunday, March 25: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Family Service; 10.30am Union Church, Tarwin Lower MP. ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am.

ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am.

ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion.

CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984.

AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES (AOG): Prom Coast Community Church Inc. - Foster Community House, Station Street, 10am: Sunday. Sunday School and Creche operates. Pastor Bill Watson 5686 2248.

A.O.G. Inverloch - Cnr Bear and McIntosh Street, Inverloch. Sunday Service 10am; Imagine Christmas Day Service 9am. Contact: Jeff Robertson, 0418 125 832 or Imagine Burwood 9888 7466.

Korumburra Southern Hills A.O.G. - 4 Mine Rd, 10am: Sunday. Also Children’s Church and Creche. Contact: Pastor Rob Davey 5625 3226. Youth: Neville Stuart ph. 0407 343 219.

Equip Church - 17 Michael Place, Leongatha. Sunday service 10am.

Contact: John 0408 305 880.

Wonthaggi A.O.G. - Billson Street, 10am: Sunday. Contact: Pastor Barry Smith 5672 3984.

CHRISTIAN REVIVAL CRUSADE: 40 Hughes Street, Leongatha.

Sunday, Morning Service 10.30 am: Inspirational Service, 6.30pm: Children’s Church 10.30am: Home cells weekly. For all enquiries contact 5664 5455.

THE CHURCH AT ARCHIES CREEK: Every first Sunday of the month. Sunday morning 11am - 12.30pm. Fun and games, all ages, all are welcome. Phone: Ps. Chris Chetland 5678 7692, 0447 724 989.

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST: Saturdays, Church service 10am., Leongatha Sabbath School 11.30am.

CATHOLIC: St Laurence’s Parish Leongatha: 5 pm Mass Saturday, 11am Mass Sunday.

Tarwin Lower: In St Andrew’s Union Church, 5pm winter, 6pm summer Mass Saturday.

Meeniyan: 9.30am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 11am, 2nd and 4th Sundays.

Mirboo North: 11am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 9.30am Mass, 2nd and 4th Sundays.

St. Joseph’s Parish Korumburra: 9.30am Sunday Mass.

Loch: 5pm/6pm Daylight saving Sunday Mass.

Wonthaggi: Saturday evening 6.30pm: Evening Mass; Sunday, 10.30am: Mass. Inverloch: Sunday 9 am: Mass.

KORUMBURRA’S AGLOW: First Monday every month at Korumburra Day Centre, Korumburra Hospital, Bridge St., Korumburra at 7.45pm. Inquiries phone 5657 2214.

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

SALVATION ARMY LEONGATHA COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 52 Anderson Street (South Gippsland Highway) - Sunday: Family Worship at 10am: Sagala - Tuesday, 4 - 5.30pm; mainly music, Thursday 10am. All welcome.

Please contact Captain Martyn and Heather Scrimshaw, ph. 5662 5122.

SALVATION ARMY WONTHAGGI COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 149 McKenzie Street every Sunday at 11am for Family Worship.

Kids' Club - every Tuesday at 4 pm, Women's Group - Wednesday at 1.30pm, and Playgroup - Friday 9.30am. Evening Ladies' Fellowship - First Monday each month and Youth Groups held monthly. All welcome. Please contact Lt. Robyn and Max Lean. Ph. 5672 1228.

PRESBYTERIAN: Weekly Worship Service 10am Sunday, corner

Bent and Turner Streets, Leongatha. Phone Rev. Dr D. Clarnette 0409 236 981 or elder Col Rump 5662 2107.

CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH: Reformed Church meeting at the corner of Peart and Brown Streets. Sunday family service at 10.30am. (10am daylight saving time), creche and Sunday School available. All Sunday evening services at 5pm. Fortnightly youth activities. Home Bible Fellowship groups. Contact 5662 2527.

UNITING CHURCH: Leongatha: Sunday, March 25, 10am. Mirboo North: 9.30am. Meeniyan: 10am.

Wonthaggi: Sunday 9.30am, Family Service, all welcome. Inverloch: Sunday 11am: Korumburra: Sunday, 9.30am: Rev. Pastors Gavin and Sue Sharp, 5655 1997. Arawata: 11.30am 1st & 3rd Sundays. Kongwak: 11.30am 4th Sunday.

BAPTIST CHURCH KORUMBURRA: 39 Mine Rd, Korumburra. Service and Sunday School 10.30am. Pastor Ian Wilkinson.

Phone 5658 1366.

BAPTIST CHURCH WONTHAGGI: Cnr McBride & Broome Crescent, Wonthaggi.

Morning Service & Children’s Activities, Sunday 10am. Weekly activities see www. wonbaptist.org.au, Pastor Geoff Pegler 5672 4769.

MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Sunday, 10am: Meeniyan Youth Club Hall.

COMBINED CHURCHES WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH: 4th Sunday each month at 7pm.

SCOTS PIONEER CHURCH: Mardan South. Pleasant Sunday Afternoons on the last Sunday of each month at 2pm. See occasional ad in this paper for details. For enquiries phone 9853 6627.

FISH CREEK UNION CHURCH: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 9am; 2nd & 4th Sundays, 7pm. Contacts: Fran Grimes 5683 2650, Sue Poletti 5663 6325.

7.

8.

9.

10.

12.

15.

16.

18.

20.

22.

ACROSS Undecided (4,2,3,3) Go hungry (6) Strong (6) Body (7) Compass (5) Projection (5) Many (7) Weight (6) Girl (6) Native Language (6,6)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

11.

13.

14.

17.

19.

21.

DOWN Curb (8) Excitement (4) Severe (7) Form (5) Fragment (8) Smile (4) Disaster (8) Metal (8) Full (7) Number (5) Ice (4) Post (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8317 ACROSS 7. What the space-suit that’s been thrown out has? (2,7,3).

8. He takes risks, but not as badly as before (6). 9. Gets engaged and he is in trouble (6). 10. The case the lady lost travelling through (7). 12. Strikes in which the British take part are seen in many fields (5). 15. Entailed going back finally to get her (5). 16. They get blazing if told to work harder!(7). 18. Herb or I will be on horseback (6). 20.

Were we to part with money, that would be new! (6). 22.

Not harmed at all - and, perhaps, all the better? (4,3,5).

DOWN 1. Amount to twice administering a rebuke (4,4). 2. Drop off the actors (4). 3. Began to trade, foolishly, on the street (7). 4. Hold the shellfish gently (5). 5. Returns swiftly and manages to get a member of the team (4,4). 6. There was a hosptial before on this location (4). 11. Being lively and modern, is playing golf (8). 13. A man embraced by a lady: a titled lady (8). 14. Ranted and raved when attacked unexpectedly (7). 17. Combine to get one in tune, somehow (5). 19. The sound of a band (4). 21. Sack from the butcher’s (4).

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 35

Creative flair printed in unity AG GR GROUP R ROU OUP of OU of artists art rtissttss with wi ith th a ppassion aasssiion on ffor orr tthe hhee printed pr rinnte tedd im image mag age wi w will ill ll bring their work for

the een th njjooym ymeen nt of of aart rt rt the enjoyment loovveers aatt Fi F ish sh C reeekk lovers Fish Creek from o tthis his Su hi S und ndayy from Sunday (March 25).

Moving work: Gillian Kline with a colour linocut, God of Carnage Tsunami.

Freestone Printmakers, based at Briagolong, will present an exhibition at Gecko Studio Gallery until April 21.

The show will open this Sunday from 2-5pm, promising a smart, bright collection of prints etchings, linocuts and monoprints - created by a stable of local artists, manifesting a rich history of cultural development.

Participating artists are: Debra Milligan, Lorraine Watt, Maxine Salvatore, Wendy Chappelow, Louise Van Kuyk, Ali Fullard, Glenda Johnson, Adelaide Macpherson, Diana Balhorn, Pat Waters, Gillian Kline, Jenny Noone, Kathy Luxford, Kye Hanley and Judy Dorber.

Gillian runs Freestone Press in Briagolong and was formerly one half of

the entrepreneurial couple who created and nurtured the fabulous Eye2Eye Theatre in Stratford.

A few years ago, she and partner Clifton finally bit the bullet and moved on to work on some fresh new projects that had been lurking for some time.

Freestone Press - a home-based printmaking studio workshop in Briagolong - was top of the list.

Nestled in the bushland along Freestone Creek - in the ever-arty-er township of Briagolong - this busy little studio is building an impressive clientele - and a reputation for brilliantly inspiring workshops and master classes.

Gillian studied printmaking originally at the (then) Caulfield Institute of Technology, and while much of her

energy later revolved around theatre production (and running the business), she kept her printmaking skills fresh by using her talents to make handmade linocuts for Eye2Eye Theatre graphics.

So, it has seemed like a natural progression to open her own purposebuilt studio for artists interested in learning the fundamental techniques,

and then giving them the chance to practise and develop their printmaking.

These days there are around 15 artists who regularly spend a day together, working in the studio on a whole range of printmaking techniques.

The creativity is palpable and the proof is in the prints.

“We have printmakers coming for studio access

on a regular basis. We’re running workshops by visiting artists, and we have a pretty good body of work happening,” Gillian said.

While she generally runs the basic printmaking workshops, master classes have been led by such print luminaries as David Frazer, Martin King and Kate Zizys.

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Discover playgroup Words aid cancer fight for serious fun YOUNG families are invited to join in the free celebrations at SG SPLASH stadium in Leongatha on Monday, March 26 to celebrate National Playgroup Week.

There’ll be lots of activities in the stadium (not the pool area), with story time, craft activities, science play, musical games and a jumping castle.

As well, there will be a baby space and a chill out zone for the parents.

“Parents with young children volunteer their time each week to run playgroups, so we are holding this event to say thank you to these wonderful people and to encourage new families to come along and see what playgroup is all about,” said Sara Janssen, playgroup co-ordinator at South Gippsland Shire Council.

“With 19 playgroups across the shire, it’s a fabulous opportunity for parents and children to socialise with their regular group and others from further afield.”

Playgroup Australia CEO Karen Merange said National Playgroup Week was a light-hearted way to deliver a

serious message about the benefits of play and playgroups to families with young children.

“There are more than 105,000 families attending playgroups in Australia at present, but we want all families with young children to know and value play at playgroup as a vital ingredient of growing up in Australia,” Ms Merange said.

“In this current society where many people no longer know their next door neighbour, playgroups play an important role in building community connections between individuals, families and the local services and opportunities that are available to them.”

Recent research conducted for Playgroup Australia showed that parents who attended playgroup saw it as a vehicle for bringing people together within communities.

The majority of respondents also believed that playgroups were beneficial for children’s development, even amongst those families who were not currently attending playgroup.

MEMBERS of the Coal Creek Literary Festival Committee last Wednesday handed a cheque for $720 to the South Gippsland Relay For Life Committee.

The relay was represented by a grateful Karen Langdon.

Every year since the Literary Festival was first held in 2008, the final evening’s entertainment has been a fundraiser for charity featuring performances by members of Leongatha Lyric Theatre and local musicians.

At last year’s festival the entertainment was a play - Love Letterspresented by Lyric members, and music was provided by local band Psycho Wombat.

They played to a full house, which, together with the raffle for a painting donated by local art dealer

Welcome donation: Coal Creek Literary Festival Committee members Marie Gerrard-Staton, David Tattersall and Jillian Durance, with Karen Langdon (second from right) representing the Relay for Life committee.

Doug Kane, resulted in raising $720 for the Relay For Life Committee.

In thanking the Literary Festival organisers and

Lyric Theatre members for their donation, Karen mentioned this year’s Relay For Life would be held at Dumbalk on the

weekend of April 21 and 22.

Further details are available from Karen on 0427 644 471.

Scouts ride The Glade INVERLOCH Scouts invited the younger Cubs to go ‘ice blocking’ in The Glade at Inverloch recently.

Normally a scout level activity, the new cubs were excited to be able to cool off on a hot Wednesday night with their older colleagues.

Take off: Inverloch scouts and cubs zoom down the banks of The Glade on ice blocks. From left: Bob, Shannon, Gabe, Rebecca, Jack, Jacqueline, Jenna and Rochelle (partly hidden).

During the night, the new cubs got wet but had a great time setting distance and speed records for ice travel in Inverloch.

Lions share food THE Lions Club of Inverloch and District along with helpers from Wonthaggi, Leongatha, Mirboo North and San Remo Lions, were kept extremely busy during the Inverloch Jazz Festival recently.

Lions provided food for the near record crowds.

The Lions club provided continuous meals at the Community Hub from Friday through to Sunday and barbecue meals outside the hub on Saturday and Sunday.

This year was the busiest since the Lions started catering for the

On deck: Lions Geoff Cole, Dilene Hilton, Ian Rasmussen, Geraldine Price, Dawn Rasmussen and Helen Cole in the kitchen at the Community Hub during the Inverloch Jazz Festival. festival back in 2002.

Visitors to the festival were appreciative of the quality of the meals, reasonable prices and a cheery face behind

the counter or at the barbecue.

The Lions club will use profits from the catering to aid local charity and humanitarian projects.

Meals roster (Leongatha) Kath Davis, E. Derrick (Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri), Yooralla (Tues), S. Smith, A. Heide (Mon, Thur, Fri), National Bank (Tues), SG Specialist School (Wed), J. & J. Gaze (all week) will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning March 26, 2012.

One new cub was also presented with his white scarf, following a century old scouting tradition.

Cubs and scouts meet each Wednesday night during the school terms and also

participate in weekend activities and camps.

More young members are welcome.

Contact group leader Mark Withers for more information on 5674 3739.

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star 30 years ago, March 23, 1982 MARDAN farmer Frank Wood is in a satisfactory condition, after having four fingers sewn back on to his left hand.

The fingers and the tip of Mr Woods’ thumb were severed in a chainsaw accident yesterday. **** DAVID White, the Shadow Minister for Water Supply, visited Leongatha and Inverloch last Thursday. He spent the morning with the Leongatha Water and Sewerage Authority, discussing the up-grading of Leongatha’s water supply.

10 years ago, March 19, 2002 RARE bushland could be permanently saved from the axe if the South Gippsland Shire Council agrees to seek a covenant. Volunteer caretakers of Wuchatsch Reserve at Nyora want council to apply for a Trust for Nature Covenant, to permanently protect it from development. **** STRZELECKI Ward Councillor Lawrie Milne was elected as the new mayor of the South Gippsland Shire Council at a special meeting last night. Cr Milne has replaced Corner Inlet Ward Councillor Jeanette Harding as the head of council.

Five years ago, March 20 2007 EVERY town in

South Gippsland, with the exception of Foster, ill bbe on stage t f will four water restrictions by the end of this week. The situation is unprecedented. **** A 19 year-old deckhand involved in the illegal shooting of protected fur seals off Wilson’s Promontory last year, will serve a sixmonth good behaviour bond. Damien Hyslop of Newhaven was found guilty of 12 charges relating to the shooting, off Kanowna Island in Bass Strait in August last year.

One year ago, March 22, 2011 THE third armed robbery in 18 months has prompted Mirboo North business people to come together. Traders have been concerned for their safety after the Bendigo Bank and Meeniyan post office were robbed last year. Then, last Thursday afternoon, the Mirboo North post office was held up in similar circumstances. **** SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council may support the construction of a 33m tall telecommunications tower that would dominate the heart of Leongatha, despite widespread community objection. Council will tomorrow night (Wednesday) debate the proposal, backed by council’s planning department.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 37

Penguin flies at Moomba IS it a bird? Yes! Is it a plane? No, but it is a flying penguin!

MORGAN and Michelle Barnes of Wonthaggi welcomed their first daughter Anna Jane, born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on March 12. She is a baby sister for Austin, 2.

Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade lived a dream recently when the world’s biggest little penguin attempted to fly at the Moomba Birdman Rally.

Andrew Boocock, marketing executive for Phillip Island Nature Parks, represented the 32,000 little penguins that call the island home when he launched himself from a four metre high platform into the Yarra River.

Dressed in little more than a lycra penguin suit and clinging to a homemade hang glider, Andrew confessed to some nerves prior to take off.

“We all know penguins don’t fly and I think I did well to prove that on Sunday! I did give it my best shot, though,” he said.

The Penguin Parade

ground crew was on hand to offer some pre-flight entertainment for the crowd lining the Yarra’s banks, some light refreshments for Andrew and to ensure he had a comprehensive safety briefing prior to take off.

Andrew managed to flap four metres before flopping into the Yarra, but his valiant efforts raised over $600 for Wildlife Victoria through the Everyday Hero program.

“Wildlife Victoria offers a vital service in wildlife rescue across the state.

People can still donate by searching for my name on the Everyday Hero website,” he said.

Phillip Island’s local volunteer wildlife rescue network, co-ordinated through the Nature Parks, works closely with Wildlife Victoria to ensure the prompt rescue of sick or injured wildlife.

Take off: Andrew Boocock in flight during the Moomba Birdman Rally.

Real carbon action ARE you confused about all the articles talking about the carbon tax, climate change, price for carbon, or are you just fed up with all the talking with so little action?

KASEY Maree Smith was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on February 16 to Ian and Jodie Smith of Inverloch. Kasey is a sister for Tegan, Tayla and Jacob.

Students shine with Beacon LEONGATHA Secondary College students gathered at Monash University Gippsland recently to learn more about the Beacon program.

The newly-appointed Beacon student ambassadors were joined by other Gippsland schools to increase their knowledge about Beacon and develop skills they will use in their role as ambassadors.

The day’s activities included an overview of Beacon and the program, an activity about job skills and avail-

ability of resources, opportunities for networking, public speaking workshops and working with the media.

After completing the induction, students expressed a high to very high level of confidence in their role as ambassadors.

All students and staff were invited to provide feedback about the day.

The Beacon Foundation is a not-forprofit organisation that aims to address school retention, engagement and employment in schools for more than 20 years.

Advancing teens: Jake Thomas from Leongatha Secondary College with students from Trafalgar High School and Traralgon Secondary College.

The South Gippsland Landcare Network and South Gippsland Shire Council have joined forces to offer a cost effective way for members of the public to take action on carbon emissions.

The groups are offering the opportunity for everyone to offset the carbon emissions from their vehicle.

For a $50 tax deductible donation, Landcare will plant 25 indigenous plants which will help to offset the carbon emissions from your vehicle for a year.

South Gippsland Landcare Network’s Real Carbon Action program uses your $50 tax deductible donation to plant 25 indigenous trees and shrubs in South Gippsland to help offset the carbon emitted from the use of your vehicle.

Your contribution will: • store carbon;

Joining effort: Landcare member Jean Carnell shows her support for the program by signing up to offset the carbon from her vehicle.

• create habitat for wildlife; • protect our precious waterways; • create shade for livestock; • reduce nutrient run-off into our streams; • protect our precious soils; and

• beautify the South Gippsland landscape.

You will receive a certificate thanking you for making South Gippsland a cleaner place to live and a car sticker to let everyone know you are helping the environment.

Whilst we recognise

that every vehicle’s emissions are different and that every tree/shrub captures varying degrees of carbon, we are using averages.

This program is about positive community action at a reasonable price. If we were to calculate the actual figures for each vehicle and each tree, the cost of the program would be prohibitive.

Council has shown its commitment to the program by contracting Landcare to plant 2500 trees/ shrubs to offset the council fleet for this year. This will offset the 660 tonnes of carbon produced in 201112 by the council vehicle fleet.

All donations made in 2011-12 financial year will be tallied up as at June 30, 2012 and the total number of trees/ shrubs donated will be planted by Landcare members in the 2012 planting season.

The program will be officially launched at the South Gippsland Sustainability Festival on Saturday, April 14 at Coal Creek but if you want to get in early please visit our website www.sgln.org.au or give us a call 5662 5759 to sign up or bring your $50 to the festival and sign up there.

Milpara Community House news COMPUTER Beyond Basics course with Barbara Florey started this week with a full class. Alan Forbes has just completed an Excel Spreadsheets class and now is running a Publisher course on Wednesday evenings until the end of term.

The Men’s Shed is proving popular with local men and we always have a lively discussion group on Friday mornings with For the Blokes. The Korumburra Playgroup is proving popular with local parents and the house comes alive on Friday mornings to the sounds of children playing. If you find yourself at a loose end, call in to 21 Shellcott’s Road, Korumburra and see what we

have to offer. **** Would you like to know how to safely set up a Facebook page for yourself or an organisation?

Facebook for Personal and Business Use with Clive Budd will be held at Milpara Community House, 21 Shellcott’s Road, Korumburra on Thursday, March 29 from 7pm to 9pm. Bookings are essential on 5655 2524. **** Do you or do you know of a person who needs help with adult literacy and numeracy? We currently have a vacancy for our very popular one on one tutorials with Katherine Cousins on Monday mornings.

Please contact Belinda or Sandra on 5655 2524 to discuss further. **** Are you over 50? Would you like to discover how the internet can help you to stay in touch with your friends and family? Book into a course with a volunteer tutor at a time that suits you. This initiative is funded by the Australian Government. **** For the Blokes meet on Friday morning from 10am to noon during school terms. This gives men an opportunity to discuss issues that are relevant to them. For further information contact Colin on 5655 2510 or leave a message on 0428 520 034.

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 39

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Doing the rounds: Russ Wildes, Stephen Kent and Brenton Wildes make their way around the sites at Farm World in 2011.

Tradition 50 years in making MORE than 700 exhibitors will take part in the 50th Farm World field days near Warragul this week.

Farm World 2012 again boasts a popular four-day field day program at Lardner Park from Thursday, March 22 to Sunday, March 25.

As Victoria’s largest regional mixed farming event this year, Farm World has grown from its roots in demonstrating machinery to local farmers to having a broad focus on sustainable rural living.

Tractors, motorcycles, machinery, silage wrap, tools, sheds and animals will be among the extensive variety of exhibitions on display.

Lardner Park’s chief executive officer, Mark Cockerell, said exhibitions take pride in producing a top class event.

“There is a huge commitment to presenting the latest in equipment, information, technology and support systems to the public,” he said.

“Exhibitors strive to help visitors make informed purchasing decisions.”

More than 50,000 people come to Lardner Park every year.

The more traditional animal health products, hay making machinery, and fencing materials are expected to receive their usual steady flow of visitors. More recently, products such as fire-fighting equipment and alternative energy systems have

been gaining popularity.

Despite the broad focus of the current field day program, Farm World’s 50th anniversary will have many reminders of its beginnings.

It was visionary farm machinery dealers who initiated the first Farm World in 1963.

Until then, machinery featured in street parades around local towns, without working demonstrations.

The first field day was such a success that several sponsors, including Vacuum Oil, which later became Mobil, were sought to enable it to continue. Current Mobil distributors, Southern Cross Lubes and Evans Petroleum, continue the tradition as committed partners, 50 years later.

Today, state-of-the-art agricultural machinery will be on show, with exhibitors expected to put ‘something special’ into their displays for this anniversary year.

The size, high tech applications, and ergo-dynamic design, to say nothing of sheer horsepower, would amaze field day visitors of yesteryear.

Celebrations at Farm World will take on an even greater festive feel with 2012 also being Australia’s Year of the Farmer. As an official proud supporter of the year-long national celebrations, Lardner Park will host the Year of the Farmer roadshow, early in its 55,000 kilometre journey

across all states and territories.

A special initiative for the female visitors to Farm World will be held on Thursday, March 22.

Ladies Day – Women in Agriculture is the brainchild of local agritourism operator, Angela Betheras.

“Farm World exhibitors will extend a special welcome to our rural women, with several special events during the Thursday,” she said.

Angela will be one of three inspirational women speaking at the Ladies Day luncheon. She will present her experiences in developing her alpaca and agritourism business, Nickleby at Darnum, together with the highlights of being recognised as Victorian Rural Woman of the Year in 2011.

The field days will be officially opened on Friday by Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu.

On Saturday, see displays of pasture and fodder crops treated with a range of fertilisers, take children to the farm animal nursery and tour the new Heritage Seeds master trial site.

Various displays of historic ploughing by horses will be held on all days of the field days, as well as a display of historic farm machinery.

Learn how to erect electric fencing, see working sheep dog demonstrations and watch one of Australia’s leading ATV instructors, Rod Jenner, demonstrate the safe riding of ATVs and motorcycles.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 41

Knows his stuff: Gendore Leongatha sales manager Kevin Smith will be on hand at Farm World to help with any machinery questions. He is with a New Holland TT75 four-wheel-drive ROPS tractor with a New Holland AP Plus front end loader.

Gendore still shows at Farm World ONLY two exhibitors have been at Farm World every year since its inception, and Gendore Tractors and Machinery is one of them.

The third generation company

will not be missing out on the 50th anniversary event and will be on site with a massive display of farming machinery.

The team at Gendore will have their range of New Holland tractors on dis-

play, with some new models as well.

Lots of Alpergo tillage and cultivation machinery will be at the Gendore’s Farm World stand as well as Alpergo export manager Sam Pecorary from Italy on hand to answer

any questions.

Tim Burgess and the friendly Gendore team will also have new MX front end loaders that have a unique self levelling system, as well as new three-point linkage seed drills from Taege which

are great value at under $20,000.

Drop in and see the helpful group at the Gendore stand on your trip to Farm World this week.

Gendore has dealerships at Leongatha and Tooradin.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Evans Petroleum gears up for Farm World EVANS S Petroleum Petroleum is once again a major sponPet sor of Farm World at Lardner Park.

John Schelling, the sales manager for Evans Petroleum, thinks of the field days as a special part of the company’s advertising. advertising “It gives us a chance to meet and greet with current customers and to talk to potential clients about their fuel and lubricant needs,” Mr Schelling said.

Evans Petroleum, along with co-sponsors Southern Cross Lubricants, who are the strategic distributors of Mobil Lubricants in south east Australia, are looking to promote Mobil lubricants during Farm World.

Evans Petroleum is the only Mobil distributor for fuel and lubricants in Gippsland and is looking to expand its fuel delivery area.

“We are keen to discuss bulk farm and commercial fuel deliveries with customers.” Mr Schelling said.

“Evans Petroleum is also looking to promote their fleet of trucks that can cater for any fuelling needs.”

Evans Petroleum, along with Southern Cross Lubricants, will again be occupying the Mobil Delvac Pavilion in the centre of Farm World.

Mobil has been sponsoring Farm World since its inception in 1961 and Evans Petroleum hopes to continue this support in to the future.

The Mobil Delvac stand will also be home to Dr Roberto Celada from Warragul Central Clinic, offering flu shots to anyone who would like to be immunised.

During the field days, Evans Petroleum will be giving away four hot laps around Phillip Island in conjunction with Mobil’s sponsorship of the Holden Racing Team.

Each lap is worth $700.

Fuelled up: John Schelling (left) and Warren Evans from Evans Petroleum are ready to discuss any fuel and lubricant needs at Farm World 2012.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 43

Lyric play opens this week COMEDY rich in British humour opens in Leongatha this Friday, March 23.

Take care: learn how to ride an ATV safely at Farm World.

Event grows with backing FARM World has confirmed its place as Victoria’s largest regional mixed farming event in its 50th anniversary year.

The event has grown with the support of sponsors, including current Mobil distributors, Southern Cross Lubes and Evans Petroleum, continuing the tradition as committed partners, 50 years later.

After the first field day, several sponsors, including Vacuum Oil, which later became Mobil and now Mobil Delvac, were sought to enable it to continue.

The increase in facilities each year has significantly enhanced the field day experience for all visitors. A strong relationship with long term strategic partners has been vital to this success.

Along with Mobil, the Commonwealth Bank has been a committed strategic partner since the early days. Major expenditure at different times has been greatly assisted by the Commonwealth Bank, and a major display area has been named in their honour.

A more recent strategic partnership formalises the long term relationship the Baw Baw Shire Council has with Farm World.

Lardner Park chief executive officer Mark Cockerell said council had provided many solutions to a range of planning and traffic management issues.

“The Baw Baw Shire Council has been very supportive in assisting the Farm World and Lardner Park expansion,” said Mark.

The important role that Farm World plays in promoting local businesses and the local attractions is also strongly valued by council and they are proud to be associated with such a high profile event.

The General Interest Pavilion offers a showcase of Gippsland’s home based businesses and many of the machinery exhibitors strongly support their local distributors.

From the air-conditioned comfort of the new exhibition centre over-looking a sea of marques and displays, surrounded by mature trees, it is hard to imagine the dusty paddock of the first Farm World, 50 years ago.

But there is no doubt that Farm World will continue to build and expand its focus to reflect the interests and needs of its visitors for many years to come.

Habeas Corpus will be presented by Lyric Theatre at Mesley Hall.

The play promises a hilarious insight into the antics of English middle class in the sixties, depicted via a rampant doctor and his lustful wife, a randy vicar, a spinster and a suicidal neighbour.

The apparently respectable Wicksteed family have to take a grip on their libidos. Human weaknesses propel them into permissive society.

The housemaid knows exactly who is chasing whom and keeps the audience informed throughout.

Written by Alan Bennett, the Lyric production is directed

by Jack Millar, who has returned to the company after directing two of the three plays in last year’s one act play trio. He has directed or acted in more than 50 plays, melodramas and pantomimes.

Tickets are now available at Mushroom Crafts, Leongatha. Call in or phone 5662 3940 to book at any of the six shows.

Lyric stars: Mike Pullar, Aron Toman and Alison McIntyre in character, contemplating their futures.

Help please: Noel Stringer, playing a suicidal patient, seeks to be consoled by Gavin Dalrymple who plays Dr Wicksteed.

Kids make furry friends THE students of the Leongatha Kindergarten on Hassett Street had a visit from some farmyard friends recently.

Goats, ducks, chickens, a calf, a pig, guinea pigs and rats and even a tortoise thrilled the young pupils.

While the smaller, cuddly animals are the most huggable, the larger animals also provide an interest for the children.

“The children love anything they can hold, like the rats, guinea pigs and ducklings,” said animal handler, Sue Hayne.

“They are always fascinated by the tortoise as well.”

The teachers at the kindergarten are always keen to introduce education to their pupils in different ways.

“It allows the children to handle the animals. Find out how they feel, and how they behave,” said teacher Jodie McGannon.

“They can feed the animals, and see how the different types of animals eat.

“They can see the pig rooting around in the grass which teaches them that pigs use their snouts to dig. It provides a real hands-on opportunity for the children to learn about animals.

“We will follow up on the animal visit in the classroom; we will have an egg talk and make butter from cream in a churn. “We will then use the butter and apples from our school tree to make some muffins. It helps the children to learn where their produce comes from, which is really important.”

This little piggy: Gabi Wilkinson had fun patting a pig.

Cute couple: Zac Carruthers and his cute calf companion.

Small and adorable: Chloe Gilliam and Rhett Collins cuddle up with some guinea pigs.

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

• VLE LEONGATHA

Vealers sell to 240c/kg IT must depend which export market processors are targeting as cows were firm to 3c dearer, while grown steers and bullocks were 2c to 5c/kg cheaper.

All of the same buyers were present, and were presented with a larger yarding. Grown cattle represented around 70 per cent of the yarding. Vealers and other young cattle sold very well, mostly selling to dearer trends.

There were 80 vealers of a sort penned, and the prices of 190c to 240c/ kg were very good for the quality. Light and medium weight yearling steers sold between 190c and 235c/ kg. Most of the 110 yearlings were heifers that sold from 160c to 210c/kg.

Some very heavy steers were penned that had been mouthed 0 to 2 teeth, which sold from 180c to 197c, and were 2c to 5c/kg cheaper. Over 1400 grown steers and bullocks were penned, with the quality being mixed. Most bullocks were in good condition, but more D muscle grades were penned. Prices were 2c to 5c cheaper, which saw grown steers sell to 196c, and bullocks 175c to 187c/kg.

The best quality bullocks weighing in the low 600kg range made to 194c/kg. A large number of very heavy manufacturing bullocks were offered, particularly one draft of

70 head weighing 720kg to 850kg lwt. These and others sold between 166c and 180c/kg. Friesian and dairy cross steers and bullocks sold from 158c to 165c/kg.

Very strong demand for all cows saw better quality beef cows make 148c to 164c/kg. Larger frame dairy cows ranged between 135c and 154c, while poor 1 scores made mostly from 105c to 138c/kg. However, strong restocker competition saw some sell from 145c to 171c/kg. The carcass weight price average was estimated to be 302c/kg.

Only 38 bulls were penned and these sold from 136c to 179c/kg.

Wednesday, March 14 BULLOCKS 14 N. Fox, Mirboo 10 D. Macri, Korumburra 3 N. Littlejohn & Son, Mirboo North

590kg 196.0 $1156.00 582kg 196.0 $1142.00 578kg 195.0 $1127.75

10 I.M. & W.M. Pepperell, Bena 567kg 8 Melaleuca Pastoral, Meeniyan 570kg 7 R.M. & V.I. Brown, Korumburra 590kg STEERS 1 Coolaman P/L, Bena 355kg 1 B. & L. Kennedy, Korumburra 410kg 6 Leeds P/L, Allambee East 300kg 4 R.H. & M. Greaves, Tarwin Lower 317kg 3 J. Stephens, Allambee East 410kg 1 J. Reilly, Loch 480kg COWS 1 M.F. & M.M. Gleeson, Boolarra 470kg 1 T.C. & I.P. Walker, Mirboo North 445kg 1 S.B. Marriott Lsk, Outtrim 835kg 2 G. Coulter, Mardan 875kg 1 C.A. & K.W. Rendell, Yarram 495kg 4 G.D. Birrell, Wonga Wonga 738kg HEIFERS 1 M. Steenholt, Woolamai 375kg 1 R.H. & M. Greaves, Tarwin Lower 300kg 5 D. Donchi, Dumbalk 249kg 7 Leeds P/L, Allambee East 280kg 1 P.A. & L.J. Taylor, Toora 360kg 1 Coolaman P/L, Bena 295kg BULLS 1 B. & C. Beatson, Toora 1100kg 1 S.B. Marriott Lsk, Outtrim 825kg 1 J. & R. Quilford, Dalyston 830kg 1 L.J., B.C. & T.J. Glover, Lang Lang East 910kg 1 W. Roberts, Mirboo 880kg 1 Langmoor Farm, Fish Creek 975kg

195.0 $1106.63 195.0 $1111.50 195.0 $1150.50 242.0 $859.10 240.2 $984.82 240.0 $720.00 240.0 $762.00 238.6 $978.26 236.6 $1135.68 170.6 $801.82 170.6 $759.17 167.6 $1399.46 164.2 $1436.75 163.6 $809.82 160.0 $1182.00 234.6 233.6 233.6 230.0 228.2 227.2

$879.75 $700.80 $581.66 $644.00 $821.52 $670.24

178.6 171.6 169.2 168.6 168.0 168.0

$1964.60 $1415.70 $1404.36 $1534.26 $1478.40 $1638.00

Free health checks at Farm World WORKERS heading to Farm World this week will have the chance to learn about their risk for type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease check with a free WorkHealth check.

Fit, healthy: not only is there machinery at Farm World but free health checks too.

WorkHealth checks, which are available to all Victorian workers as part of WorkSafe Victoria’s WorkHealth program, are completely confidential and take just 15 minutes.

“What we’re finding is that around a quarter of workers who have done WorkHealth checks actually have a high risk for developing type 2 Diabetes which is something many of them wouldn’t have known about before,” WorkHealth director Rachel Gualano said.

“So we’re heading to Farm World because we think it’s important that as many workers as possible have the chance to get their health checked.”

WorkHealth checks are performed by trained health professionals, and involve a lifestyle survey and a series of measurements, including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and waistline.

Results and advice on leading a healthy lifestyle are provided on the spot. And for those workers found to be at risk of type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease, help is on hand through the new WorkHealth Coach telephone support service.

Look out for WorkHealth checks in the Baw Baw Pavillion at Lardner Park from Thursday, March 22 to Sunday, March 25 at Farm World.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 45

Carbon in spotlight A LOT has been said about climate change, the Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI) and farmers, but most of it has been vague and technical.

To make the topic understandable, a seminar is being held to provide localised advice for farmers about weather, changing climate and the new Carbon Farming Initiative.

To be held at the Pakenham Racecourse on March 28, the Give me Some Credit seminar will focus on topics including what the climate will be like, what this means for landholders and what they can do, and how will the Carbon Farming Initiative work for them.

The seminar will provide practical steps on how farmers can understand climate patterns to mitigate threats from climate change on their property, as well as capitalise on government programs such as the CFI. Experts will present on

Expert knowledge: regional Landcare facilitator Nick Dudley will speak about opportunities for farmers with the Carbon Farming Initiative.

a range of topics including Graeme Anderson from Farm Services Victoria who will present local weather data, including giving specific climate advice on the region and how it is likely to change.

Furthermore, local farmers will talk about their experiences preparing for climate change or how

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they attempted to reduce their carbon or increase sequestration.

The day will be facilitated by Tracey Curro, former 60 Minutes journalist and Al Gore Climate Change ambassador, allowing all presenters to provide question and answer sessions.

The event will be held on Wednesday, March 28, 9.30am until 1.30pm at the Pakenham Racing Club, including a free lunch.

RSVP by March 21.

Register online at http:// www.ppwcma.vic.gov. au/events_current.htm or ring Kathleen Bartlett on 0400 141 929.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

public notices

public notices

BIODYNAMIC GARDENERS ASSOCIATION

INTRODUCTORY FIELD DAY Sunday April 15 9am - 4pm Learn about the principles of Biodynamics (BD), how to store and use BD preparations, planting and cultivation methods, make a BD compost heap and much more LOCATION: Fish Creek (at a certified BD small farm) TUTOR: John Bradshaw of “Biodynamic Growing” COST: $60/$50 per person, $100/$90 per couple TO REGISTER: email John - bdgrowing@dcsi.net.au (“Field Day” as subject) ENQUIRIES: Jackie 5683 2411 or 0437 753 796 Early registration is recommended as places are limited

public notices

public notices

DECLARATION OF SERVICED AREAS In accordance with Section 144 of the Water Act 1989, notice is hereby given that the lots listed below have been provided with water and/or sewer services and are now liable to be rated as serviced properties from the dates also given below.

26 Sandy Mount Avenue, Inverloch PS647692H as from 9th February 2012 27 Toorak Road, Inverloch PS649807G as from 22nd February 2012 Alexander Road, South Dudley PS646579J as from 28th November 2011 4 Simpson Street, Foster PS642651A as from 9th December 2011 Philippe du Plessis Managing Director

Scots Pioneer Church Mardan South Pleasant Sunday Afternoon ECUMENICAL

25 March 2012 - 2pm

Paul Stampton How to beat the planners Music by Sean Stampton & Kane Milkins (Guitars) FIRST PSA FOR THE YEAR Everyone welcome

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

situations vacant NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT Details about the application The land affected by the application is located at 12A Venus Street, Inverloch.

The application is for a permit to: Vary a building envelope under a registered restrictive convenant for the construction of a shed within a Heritage Overlay.

The applicant for the permit is: Andrew Donohue, Andrew Donohue Building Design.

The application number is: 110530.

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority, Bass Coast Shire Council, Wonthaggi Civic Centre, 76 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi.

This can be done during office hours free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

Council collects and holds this personal information to comply with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 and the Information Privacy Act 2000 Principles.

Please be aware that copies of objections/submissions received may be made available to any person for the purpose of consideration as part of the planning process.

An objection must be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing, addressed to Chief Executive Officer, Bass Coast Shire Council, P.O. Box 118, Wonthaggi Vic 3995. Include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 3rd April.

If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you its decision.

CHIROPRACTOR Garry Harrison 19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday By appointment Ph: 5674 8290

MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Information Night for

HEALING ROOMS

Friday March 30 7pm YOUTH HALL McLeans Lane Meeniyan 0412 755 627

message of hope

COUNT it all joy when you fall into various trials.

James 1:2.

situations vacant We require a

LEADING HAND to undertake a position with our tree service business Duties will include tree maintenance and removal, tower work, chainsaw operation and woodchipping duties.

Climbing skills would be an advantage.

Previous experience and HR licence is necessary.

Servicing the South Gippsland region, the successful candidate will possess initiative and leadership skills.

To apply please send your resumé to: The Manager, PO Box, 64 Grantville, Vic. 3984.

SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATION OFFICER - 9 Month Contract Maternity Replacement

A person with excellent computer and MS Word skills and competent verbal and written communication skills is required to assist in the administration and implementation of various corporate management systems at South Gippsland Water. Applicant requires the ability to work well within a small group. The successful applicant will need to demonstrate the ability to take initiative, manage their time effectively and work across all levels of the organisation. Salary is band 4 dependent on applicant’s experience and ranges between $45,607.12 – $48,206.60 plus super. This position will be full time for nine months based at our Foster Office.

Applicants should read the position description located at www.sgwater.com.au. Please contact Paula Smith on 5682 0403 for all enquiries.

Applications close on Friday 23rd March 2012 Email psmith@sgwater.com.au or post to: HR & Payroll Coordinator South Gippsland Water PO Box 102 Foster Vic 3960

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 47

situations vacant

situations vacant

Water Quality / Backflow Prevention Officer South Gippsland Water invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the position of Water Quality / Backflow Prevention Officer.

The role is based at South Gippsland Water’s Foster office and involves carrying out all aspects of backflow prevention and water sampling.

Salary is band 5 dependent on applicant’s experience and ranges between: $49,420.28 – $56,138.16 plus applicable allowances and super. Commuter use of a vehicle is provided.

The successful applicant must be a registered plumber and preferably hold a certified backflow prevention licence and a current manual driver’s licence. Recent backflow experience and the ability to use computers will be highly regarded.

Applicants should read the position description located at www.sgwater.com.au For enquiries on this role please contact Paula Smith on 03 5682 0403. Applications close on Friday 23rd March 2012 and can be emailed to psmith@sgwater.com.au or posted to: Attn: HR & Payroll Co-ordinator South Gippsland Water PO Box 102 Foster Vic 3960

situations vacant

Apprentice Greenkeeper Apply to

FOSTER GOLF CLUB 5682 2272

situations vacant PAINTING & DECORATING APPRENTICESHIP A local business is looking for a hard working applicant who is interested in doing a Painting & Decorating apprenticeship.

For more information call Dexter on 0438 539 679

EXPERIENCED HAIRDRESSER – Inspiration Hair Design

Leading South Gippsland Salon looking for an experienced and creative hairdresser to join a lively and talented team – in a full time position.

Working with a highly motivated and energetic team, modern facilities, using De Lorenzo products – the successful applicant will be offered exciting incentives and given endless opportunities to extend their expertise through ongoing training.

Contact Emma or Kate on 56722513

QUALIFIED Early Childhood Educator (Child Care) (Diploma in Children’s Services required for Mirboo North) Full time

QUALIFIED Early Childhood Educator (Child Care)

(Diploma in Children’s Services required for Foster) Part time - 15-37 hours per week These positions will be responsible for the planning, organisation and implementation of children’s programs in accordance with The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia. These positions will provide leadership, direction and support to immediate co-workers and create as well as maintain a highly valued ‘working together’ culture.

In addition to daily care and support of children, Early Childhood Educators will be required to implement a program that is responsive to children, have a holistic approach through play and implement learning environments that are welcoming, which supports learning that is supportive to the interests and abilities of each child whilst critically reflecting on one’s own practice.

Early Childhood Educator/Cook (Child Care)

(Cert III Children’s Services required for Mirboo North) Part time - 15-37 hours per week

Early Childhood Educator (Child Care) (Cert III Children’s Services required for Foster) Casual

These positions involve active participation in the planning, organisation and implementation of programs, in conjunction with qualified staff in each room.

In addition to daily care tasks, staff will be required to provide written developmental records, write up incidents and accidents as per regulations, have input into Centre policies and practices and participate in the general life of the Centre.

For further information on the above positions please telephone Rebecca Ford for Mirboo North on 5668 2450 and Kerrie Atyeo for Foster on 5683 9800 Application forms and position descriptions are available at www.ucgipps.org.au or call Kirstie on 5152 9600 to have copies emailed/sent to you.

Applications close 5pm 26th March 2012 and are to be sent to: Kirstie Pearce, HR Co-ordinator UnitingCare Gippsland PO Box 454 Bairnsdale Vic 3875 UnitingCare Gippsland interviews in the interests of safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

for sale

VACUUM CLEANER Repairs

DUST BAGS

Sales

FREE

QUOTES

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

5672 3127

SEEDER Power Harrow 3m Celli with 5 bag Fiona Seedbox 20 spd. crumble roller plus solid roller Reco gearbox with receipts Good condition $11,000 inc. OBO Phone 0417 990 558 Leongatha

situations vacant

MOTOR MECHANIC (Auto Technician) A position has become available at Inverloch Marine for an Auto Mechanic.

The position includes a variety of work, including servicing and repairs of a wide range of vehicles.

The successful applicant may be required to assist the marine department as required.

All applications will be treated as confidential.

Email resume to: service@inverlochmarine.com.au

UnitingCare Gippsland operates a number of education and care programs including Mirboo North (St Andrew’s Child Care Centre) and Foster (Prom Coast Centre for Children). These services are child focused, professionally informed, family and community driven.

We currently have the following vacancies at these centres:

for sale

Phone 5674 1502 Shane Hemming - Service Manager 2 The Esplanade, Inverloch

Water Distribution Systems Maintenance Officer

B/B HEIFER, 15 months old, very quiet, good condition. To pick up, $550.

0427-121510.

CARAVAN Jayco Discovery, 3yo pop-top. Ex. condition, with a/c, 3-way fridge, as new stove, full canvas annex, $25,900.

Ph: 0427-055177.

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

FIREWOOD Local wood split. Pick up or delivered.

Ph: 0437-176187.

HARDWOOD timber 6x2, assorted lengths. Cypress timber posts, rails and garden sleepers. Phone Fletch 0417-550621 between 6 and 8pm.

situations vacant

The Men’s Shed Venus Bay Tarwin Lower & District

Project Worker The Venus Bay Tarwin Lower & District Men’s Shed Inc. is looking for a suitably experienced person to fill this casual vacant position.

The successful applicant is required to work with and assist the Management Committee in establishing systems records, objectives and processes, shed policies and procedures, occupational health and safety, publicity and simple financial records.

The applicant is also required to have advanced computer skills, especially Microsoft word processing and grant application.

The position is for 12 months and the remuneration package is $30.00 per hour at 5 hours per week.

The position description and key selection criteria, can be obtained by telephoning Don Kennedy on 5663 5370 or 0414 392 363. Applications must address the key selection criteria.

Application closes on April 5th 2012

South Gippsland Water invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the position of Water Distribution Systems Maintenance Officer.

Based at South Gippsland Water’s Wonthaggi depot this position involves planning and carrying out the Corporations’ Air Scouring / Flushing programs and other operations improvement tasks as required.

Salary is band 4 dependent on applicants experience beginning at $45,607.12 plus applicable allowances and super. Commuter use of a vehicle is provided.

The successful applicant will possess proven time management and planning skills and hold a current manual driver’s licence. Trade qualifications and experience with reticulation, mechanical pumps and associated equipment will be highly regarded.

Applicants should read the position description located at www.sgwater.com.au For enquiries on this role please contact Paula Smith on 5682 0403. Applications close on Friday 30th March 2012 and can be emailed to psmith@sgwater.com.au or posted to: Attn: HR & Payroll Co-ordinator South Gippsland Water PO Box 102 Foster Vic 3960

Analyst/Accountant BrownWigg is a leading provider of Rural Merchandise throughout the Gippsland Region.

Due to expansion, an outstanding opportunity has arisen for an experienced Analyst / Accountant to make a significant contribution to the next level of organisational growth.

Reporting to the Directors and liaising directly with management across the business, this role encompasses all aspects of costing and management reporting, including variance analysis, general ledger reporting, budgeting, forecasting and completion of statutory accounts and compliance. This position is based in Sale.

Knowledge of activity based costing and the completion of post graduate qualifications in either CPA or CA will be highly regarded. An ability to work autonomously in producing accurate periodic results along with ad-hoc management reporting is essential.

Interviewing is commencing immediately.

For further enquiries, please contact Luke Johnston on 0437 913 927 or email luke@brownwigg.com.au.

for sale

HAY CLEARANCE 1,000 small square bales. Must go $5 each. Can deliver 50 or more, conditions apply.

5664-1320, 0428-999691.

LUCERNE HAY and mulch, LSQ, rolls, sml sq. ASK Ag., Cowwarr. Ph: 5148-9397.

OLD PORT POULTRY FARM delivering 20 week old laying hens to your area, Saturday March 24. $18 each. Phone B/H 0438832535, A/H 5183-2515.

PASTURE HAY premium quality, all bale types. ASK Ag., Cowwarr. Ph: 51489397.

RIDE-ON MOWER New Generation Cox, 16hp Kohler engine, 42” cut, serviced recently. VGC $1,950 ONO. 5668-1912, 0400-840834.

RIDE-ON MOWER Greenfields, 32 inch cut, as new cond, only done 14 hours work, and trailer, 7 foot by 5 foot, full cage, plus aluminium folding ramps. $4,000 for both. Ph: 0419-897322.

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each.

Free delivery for pack lots.

Phone Joe 0417-530662.

TIMBER Kiln dried blackwood, silver wattle, cypress, celery top pine, most sizes for furniture and craft, also slabs and structural pine. Ph: 56812261.

TV CABINET 132cm long x 75cm high. Video shelf below, also glass cabinet for music centre. High polished veneer, walnut.

Very good condition $120.

5662-4285.

used vehicles

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

Bass Coast Metal Recyclers 5672 2946 0417 556 593

TOYOTA LANDCRUISER tray, 4.2 diesel, 10/92 build, $10,000 as is. Property sold. Reg. TRG802, paid until September 14, 2012.

5663-5266.

DAIRY POSITION Modern Dairy farm located in the Middle Tarwin area.

50 unit rotary milking shed, with split calving herd.

Some farm experience an advantage but not necessary.

On-site training available.

This position is suitable for someone who enjoys working outside, likes animals and is keen to learn.

In return we offer: • Competitive hourly rate/package to develop a career in the dairy industry • Flexible roster • Rostered days off • Excellent amenities and facilities The successful applicant will be a team player who: • is motivated and wants to grow with our business • has initiative and a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges • is able to perform routine farm maintenance • is able to assist with milking • undertake farm duties as and when required.

References essential.

Contact: The Orchard Trust orchardtrust@gmail.com Phone 0407 062 509 Middle Tarwin

South Gippsland Shire Council

Municipal Emergency Coordinator $81k package including super and car MERO Allowance 9 day fortnight available Reporting to the Director Community Services, this position is responsible for coordinating Council’s Emergency Management obligations under the Emergency Management Act 1986, including managing and delivering Council’s responsibilities in planning, preparation, prevention, response and recovery activities within the Shire, and includes the duties of MERO. You will possess formal qualifications in Emergency Management or substantial experience in the field of responding to and recovering from emergency events, and have a proven record of working in a multi-agency environment with the ability to establish and maintain relationships and networks.

Enquiries to Jan Martin, Director Community Services on (03) 5662 9200.

All applicants must submit an Application Form and address the selection criteria outlined in the position description, by 5pm 28 March 2012.

Further information and a position description is available from our website.

www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

free

garage sales

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

CHAINSAWS AND STATIONARY ENGINES ETC. Repairs and services

Phone JOHN GOULD 5664 0012

livestock

Caramia Alpacas OPEN DAY Sunday April 1 10am to 3pm Come and see our lovely Alpacas Many available for sale 1403 Foster North-Mirboo South Road VicRoads Map 103 D2

PULLETS Wednesday, April 11 Commercial crossbreds.

Fully vaccinated.

Not debeaked.

14wk (Red, Brown) $14 Available from Elders Past., Leongatha

10.30am Phone 5662 3523 to order now (Brian Larkin Poultry)

YOUNG laying hens, Koonwarra. 0428-566127.

agistment

AGISTMENT AVAILABLE LEONGATHA AREA For approx 40 heifers JD Cap Accredited

Phone 0429 649 209

for rent

FOR RENT MEENIYAN 2BR brick unit Avail 15th Apr, $190pw 3BR house Avail12th Apr, $220pw 2BR brick house Avail now, $225pw

LEONGATHA 3BR brick house Avail end of Apr $270pw

MIRBOO NORTH 3BR new unit Avail now, $250pw 3BR house Avail now, $260pw 2BR with bungalow, Avail 22nd Apr, $240 un-furn / $270 furn 3BR brand new house Avail 7th May, $300pw

Prom Country PHONE: Janine - 5662 3100 LEONGATHA - lovely renovated, furnished unit.

Share with female owner, very near shops, courtyard with park views. Nonsmoker. Ph: 0428-642304.

VENUS BAY 2 bedroom permanent rental, $200 per week. 0429-629399.

wanted

Garage Sale 10 LAURA GROVE LEONGATHA 8.30 start Saturday March 24 Everything must go No early birds

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

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

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

GARAGE SALE 16 Valley View Cres Leongatha 8am to 2pm SATURDAY March 24 Household furniture, household goods, clothes, etc.

BUFFALO 455 Buffalo North Road, Saturday March 24, 9am on.

meetings

AGM

Wednesday, March 28 6pm at Leongatha RSL

wanted to buy OLD FARM four wheelers, ag bikes, machinery, to do up. Call and let me know what you have. Will pay cash. Phone Matt 0401194601.

wanted DUST IT AWAY CLEANING SERVICE Family business DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL CLEANING Pensioner rates COVERING SOUTH GIPPSLAND AREA Phone 0400 614 056 or 0409 547 461

Email your stories editorial@thestar.com.au

Anything Carpentry Extensions Second Fix Renovations Timber Patios Decking Gyprocking Flushing Maintenance _____ Call Mike for a FREE quote!

_____ PHONE: 0427 832 950 E-MAIL mikethechippy@gmail.com ABN: 56373651246

work wanted EXPERIENCED in tractor and farm work. Frontend loader and HC licence.

Willing to do local deliveries and yard work. Leongatha area.

Work between 9.30am to 2.30pm due to bus run. Phone Greg 0427832487.

marriage celebrant

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

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

Most photos that appear in The Star can be purchased by calling 5662 2294. deaths BELLINGHAM - Robert James (Bob).

Passed away at Domain Seahaven, Inverloch on March 16, 2012.

Late of Leongatha and Mirboo North.

Aged 88 years.

Loving husband of Betty for a beautiful 64 years.

Wonderful father of Stan, Barbara and Denise (dec).

Father-in-law of Phylis and Robert.

Best pop to 6 grandchildren and great grandpop to 14.

Brother of Jean, Madge (dec), Lorna (dec), Stanley (dec) and Olive.

Forever in our hearts.

BELLINGHAM - Robert James (Bob).

Much loved father of Barb and father-in-law of Robert.

Loving pop to Steve and Jo, and Lee. Great pop to Maddison and Jacob.

Bye Dad, love you forever.

SIMMONS - Reverend Denis.

The members of the ‘Carols at the Drome’ committee, are saddened by the loss of our much loved chairman and friend. His caring community service will be greatly missed.

Sincere condolences to Lynley, Rowel and the extended family.

deaths STORR - Dorothy Annie.

Passed away suddenly at home, aged 91 years.

Respected and cherished mother of Stuart and Walter (dec).

Mother-in-law of Sue. A long road of memories.

Beloved Chooka Gran of Janelle, Scott, Lachlan, Meg and Jack. You were such an amazing and inspirational woman! Your love for each and every one of us was boundless, and spending time with you was an absolute joy. We will miss your presence, your guidance and unconditional love, but feel privileged to have shared so many wonderful years with you.

We will miss you so much. x Much loved and adored Chooka Gran of Lyndall, David, Alana, Michael, Mitchell, Ben and Kyla.

Chooka, the life you led has influenced me with qualities I will possess for life. You taught me to be strong, resilient, to look forward to the future no matter how hard things may seem, but most importantly you taught me that family will always be the greatest gift in life. Every time I compete I know you will be watching.

Thank you for living such a long, fulfilling and gracious life. See you one day in heaven.

Love Alana. x Chooka Gran, you were a sports fanatic just like us.

It didn’t matter how cold it was or how far we had to travel, you loved coming to watch us play footy each week.

You didn’t make your ton, but 91 was a pretty good score. We will miss you so much.

Love Michael, Mitchell and Ben. x Thanks for coming to watch me play in my basketball grand final. Even though I didn’t win, you still cheered me on. I will miss you.

Love Kyla. x Farewell our dear Chooka Gran.

All our love Geoff, Billie, Rochelle, Stephanie and Kurtis.

Gran, you took us by surprise! We thought you would be around forever.

You will always be in our hearts and the memories will last forever.

Love always Daryl, Jade, Lily and Harley.

STORR - Dorothy Annie.

13.5.20 - 16.3.12 Passed away suddenly at home.

Dearly loved mother of Dianne.

Words cannot say how much you will be missed every day. D.V.J. Dearly loved and proud gran of Mischelle, Robert, Michael and Mark Dehaini; Nicole, Gawain, Aiden, Kiera (dec) and Caely McColl; Tamara and Tom Tokarzeuski.

She was the most amazing lady who touched so many lives, not only her family.

Forever in our hearts.

STORR - Dorothy (Gran).

Gran you have been there for me for 43 years.

Not just as Gran but as a mum, a dad, a mentor, my number one sports fan.

Thank you for being such a huge part of my life, not just as growing up but with my own family. Sadly life is not forever but the bond that I had with you and the millions of memories can never be taken away.

deaths Love Glenn (Polly).

Tigers Forever Gran you were an incredible person. We will miss you at our dance concerts and eisteddfods, life won’t be the same without you.

Love Tanya, Morgan, Claudia and Tyson.

WOOD - Arthur Francis (Frank).

Passed away peacefully on March 13, 2012 aged 93 years.

Loved and loving husband of Bobbie.

Loved father of Janet (dec), Vivien and Ian, and fatherin-law of Gary and Anne.

Grandpa of Louise, Ben, Tim and Matthew.

funerals BELLINGHAM The Graveside Funeral Service for the late Mr Robert James (Bob) Bellingham will be held at the Mirboo North Lawn Cemetery on Wednesday March 21, 2012 commencing at 10.30am.

All Ex-Service personnel are respectfully invited to attend.

funerals STORR - The Funeral Service for the late Mrs Dorothy Annie Storr will be held at the Dakers Centre, cnr Smith and Watt Sts, Leongatha on Wednesday March 21, 2012 commencing at 1pm.

The funeral will leave after refreshments for the Toora Cemetery arriving at 4pm.

funerals

WOOD - The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of the late Mr Arthur Francis (Frank) Wood will be held at the Gippsland Memorial Park, Scrubby Lane, Traralgon on Thursday March 22, 2012 commencing at 1.30pm.

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

Smooth dancers: beau of the ball, Peter Murray, Inverloch Lions past president Dawn Rasmussen, belle of the ball Joan Nugent and judge Hannah Stallard.

Lions nimble on dance floor ONLY a week after the Inverloch Jazz Festival, music once again was to the forefront in the Inverloch Community Hub. The Inverloch Lions Club staged its annual Butterfly Ball last Saturday evening.

This time the music was provided by well known Gippsland band, the Silhouettes, who are popular with old time dance enthusiasts and played continuously from 8pm until well after midnight.

The hall was decorated with butterflies and balloons, providing a pleasant surround for the many dancers in attendance from places as far away as suburban Melbourne and East Gippsland.

In line with the tradition of an old time ball, judging took place during the evening to decide the belle and beau of the ball.

Judged on dancing skills and presentation the winners for 2012 were Jan Nugent of Korumburra (belle of the ball) and part-

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8317 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, No earthly use. 8, Better. 9, Mes-he-s. 10, Holst-er. 12, Lam-B-s. 15, Delia(tnE) (rev.). 16, Stokers.

18, Or-I-gan. 20, (We)Re-cent. 22, None the worse.

Down - 1, Come come. 2, Cast. 3, St-arted. 4, Clam-p. 5, Runs back. 6, H-ere. 11, Swinging. 13, B-a-Ron-ess. 14, Stormed. 17, Un-I-te. 19, Ring. 21, Chop.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8317 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Left in the air. 8, Starve. 9, Potent. 10, Carcase. 12, Scope. 15, Angle. 16, Several. 18, Gramme. 20, Lassie. 22, Mother tongue.

Down - 1, Restrain. 2, Stir. 3, Intense. 4, Shape. 5, Particle. 6, Grin. 11, Calamity. 13, Platinum. 14, Replete. 17, Seven. 19, Rime. 21, Send.

ner for the evening, Peter Murray (beau of the ball).

Judge for the evening was Hannah Stallard, a sales consultant employed

by Nagels Amcal Pharmacy at Leongatha, was presented with a hard task in deciding the winners, with all of the dancers presenting extremely well whilst dancing The Lucille for the judging.

MC for the evening was Lion Neil Everitt, who kept things moving so the dancers could enjoy the extensive program, with dances such as the Emmadale, Maxina, Charmaine Waltz, Fox Trot, Barn Dance, Festival Glide and many others over four-and-a-half hours, interrupted only for a supper break and drawing of the raffle by the Lions Club.

The Lions Club thanks those who attended and made it a successful night both financially and socially, and especially Wattle Bank residents Peter and Lorna Dawson who brought along 40 people.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 49

Winning captains: Phillip Island Swimming Club captains from left, Bridget Turner, Hayley Moxey, Jen McFee and Holly Egan.

All clear: Ben Green on his way to winning gold in the Under 15 pole vault last Thursday in Sydney.

Silver and bronze: Christine Byrne came home a silver and a bronze in her individual sprint events.

Great sporting moments The Australian Junior Track championships lived up to almost all expectations for our South Gippsland athletes.

As mentioned on The Star’s front page Eleanor Patterson and Ben Green led the charge with gold medals but it doesn’t stop there.

Sprinter Christine

Byrne brought home silver medals in her 100 and 200 metre events with some great times.

But it wasn’t all how it was expected to be for Christine when her 4 x 100 metre relay team had the joy of easily winning the gold medal race on Friday night only to see her team disqualified in the event.

Having fought back

tears Christine then had to prepare herself mentally for her sprints on Saturday and Sunday; which she did superbly by winning silver in the 100 metres in 13.07 and then bronze in the 200 metres in 27.03.

Mirboo North’s Wes Graeme finished with silver in the Under 15 high jump and sixth in the long jump.

Pat Ryan, who had been

leading the hammer throw all day, had to be content with silver when he was beaten for gold with the last throw.

Julian Patterson finished seventh in his high jump event while Mitchell Green finished fourth in the Under 17’s hammer throw.

Well done to all South Gippslanders at the track and field titles.

Go Island PHILLIP Island took home the South Gippsland Swimming Association’s carnival aggregate when it won the last meet at the home pool on Sunday.

With the Island in front before the last carnival and an expected big showing of their swimmers, the title was in

their grasp early on in the day.

Leongatha has provided stiff competition for the Island team but all swimming was done in a great spirit of co-operation and sportsmanship. Well done to all other clubs in the Association as well; Wonthaggi, Korumburra, Mirboo North and Corner Inlet.

Up and over: Eleanor Patterson makes an attempt in the high jump before claiming gold.

Family bond: three generations of the Goode family compete at carnivals for Phillip Island; pictured from left, Emily Goode, her mother, Cassie Goode and Cassie’s father Tom Goode.

An all Wright grand final WHEN Imperials C Grade takes to the pitch in this weekend’s grand final, it will feature three generations of the one family.

Glenn Wright, his son Brad and Brad’s son Lachie have played in the side for most of the season.

Sometimes Brad had to work on Saturdays, occasionally young Lachie had other things to do and Glenn was troubled by a hamstring injury.

But when the team beat Phillip Island at the weekend, qualifying for

the grand final, the Wrights made the record books.

LDCA secretary Gary Adams told The Star he didn’t know of any other family that had had three generations playing together in the one team.

“It’s quite something!”

The Wrights think so too.

“It’s very special,’ said Glenn’s wife Shirleyanne, who provided the newspaper with photographs.

Gary said there had been lots of father-son combinations playing in the league, but not three generations.

At 65, Glenn is the league’s most

senior player, so he’s a cricketing grandfather in more ways than one.

Son Brad is 43 and Lachie has just turned 15.

“Glenn’s an icon of the league,” declared LDCA president Russell Matthews. “Until last year, he was in the team of the year in different grades. He’s still pretty handy with the ball.”

Will Glenn play on next season?

“It’s been Glenn’s last season for the past 10 years!” laughed his wife.

“He’d love to keep playing.”

Especially if he can line up with Brad and Lachie.

Man down: Is GlennWright kneeling because he’s worn out or praying for deliverance? Either way, his Imperials C Grade team mates seem to be paying him lots of attention. That’s his son Brad in “civvies” on the left and his grandson Lachie on the far right, resting on his cricket bat.

All Wright: from left, Glenn, Lachie and Brad Wright. The trio plays for Imperials C Grade, which is in this weekend’s grand final.

Sideline help attracts volunteers THE first of a series of six Sideline Help courses across Gippsland kicked off last Tuesday at Korumburra. An astonishing 30 volunteers took up the opportunity of the free Sports Medicine Australia (SMA) course that was hosted by Regional Sports Assembly, GippSport.

Local GippSport Program Coordinator Gene Parini was extremely pleased with how the evening went.

“The response was fabulous,” he said.

“We were at capacity with 10 on a waiting list. It shows that volunteers at the grassroots level appreciate that extra knowledge when it comes to sports injury management and ensuring your club is as best prepared as possible.”

The topics covered on the night were how to prevent sports injuries, how to approach an injured athlete, management of specific injuries, introduction to a First Aid Kit and basic strapping techniques.

Heather Callahan, SMA course presenter was also impressed with the turn out and believed spreading the word was critical at the local level.

“The better informed a greater amount of volunteers are the better chance we have of ensuring the right thing is done,” she said.

The Korumburra course engaged many different sporting clubs in the area and it is aimed that any sporting club volunteer take advantage of the upcoming session in Inverloch on April 18.

The course is free to the first 20 participants that register.

To do so or get further information you can contact Gene Parini on email via gene@gippsport.com. au or mobile on 0428 358 335.

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Rower eyes Olympics CAMERON McKenzieMcHarg is vying for a position in Australia’s rowing squad to contest the London Olympics.

The former Leongatha man won a silver medal at the Beijing Games in the men’s four event.

He is hoping for a spot in the pair and eight events, and is now in Sydney contesting the Olympic trials.

“It will be two weeks of racing and swapping swaps and boats. You have to prove that you are going to go well in a team,” he said.

“It’s probably the most stressful week of a rower’s year, not knowing

who you are going to be rowing with.

“I’ve had a pretty good year and I’m pretty confident that if I perform well, I should get a spot in one of the crews.”

Based at the Australian Institute of Sport in Melbourne, McKenzieMcHarg has been at Canberra for the past two months.

“I’m aiming for the eight because in terms of the quality of the squad, we will be able to get together a competitive eight and if we get it right, we will be able to have a crack at winning the eight,” he said.

“The London Olympics should be a cracking Olympics because

there are a lot of expats living in London.”

The son of Colin and Christine McKenzie-McHarg said if selected, London could be his last Olympics after 12 years of international racing.

“I’m not sure where I will go from these. I will just enjoy the next six months and then I will go on to other things. I will go back to fulltime work and spend more time with wife (Kate McKenzie-McHarg),” McKenzie-McHarg said.

The former Mary MacKillop College student started rowing while studying at Scotch College in Melbourne.

Olympic hopes: Cameron McKenzie-McHarg (front) on the water.

Under 10 Traralgon champions

Local lifesaving champs INVERLOCH and Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s top athletes have finished with some great results at the 2012 Victorian Lifesaving Championships held at Anglesea recently.

CONGRATULATIONS to the Under 10 Leongatha Lightning basketball team who won their section at the recent Traralgon tournament.

The team played four fantastic games prior to the grand final, improving and developing with each game.

The grand final, played against Korumburra Wildcats was fast paced and energetic.

The final score was 32 to 19, with Flynn Materia awarded best on court.

Well done to each of the players and to the families for giving up their long weekend for the boys to participate.

A very special thanks to coach Kathy Materia, and to all those who supported and cheered over the weekend.

Champions: the Leongatha Lightning Under 10 team were champions at the Traralgon Basketball. They are (back from left) coach Kathy Materia, Jacob Wrigley, Darcy Hume, Ethan Lamers, (front) Flynn Materia, Noah Fixter, Ned Hanily, Haidyn Kewming

Venus Bay’s Richard Wilton claimed gold in the U/17 Men’s Beach Flags event and Jack Roper came second in both the U/19 Men’s Beach Flags and U/19 Men’s Beach Sprint.

Inverloch SLSC won the U/19 Men’s Tube Rescue event and Nick Thomas also claimed gold in the U/15 Men’s 2km run.

Competitors embraced

the chance to battle with the best from across the state to put their lifesaving skills to the test.

Over 1000 athletes from over 30 clubs across Victoria registered to compete in the final state carnival for the 2011/2012 season.

Cool weather didn’t dampen the friendly competition, with some outstanding performances by competitors from across Victoria.

Life Saving Victoria manager Aquatic Sports, Drew Urlichs, said this year’s state carnival saw fierce competition across all events.

“All events were highly contested and Inverloch has done well to finish with

some good results,” he said.

“Young and old, professionals and beginners alike come together from across the state to compete in and enjoy the excitement of the championships.

“It’s a fantastic way to keep our members enthusiastic about lifesaving.

“Victoria’s lifesavers compete in regular competition to maintain their skills and fitness all year round.

“Competition is both fun and fierce, and conducted in the highest standard of sportsmanship.”

For further information about lifesaving sport or to join a Life Saving Club near you, visit www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au

TIDES Motocross hits Wonthaggi Here is an easy guide to tides in your area.

To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below.

Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Port Phillip Heads

By Sarah Vella

MARCH Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

21 WED

22 THUR

23 FRI

24 SAT

25 SUN

26 MON

27 TUE

0402 1045 1631 2326

0.65 1.24 0.54 1.32

0517 1153 1741

0.57 1.31 0.54

0018 0614 1252 1836

1.36 0.48 1.39 0.53

0101 0658 1340 1920

1.39 0.39 1.47 0.52

0138 0737 1421 1958

1.42 0.33 1.52 0.51

0211 0812 1456 2031

1.44 0.28 1.55 0.51

0242 0846 1527 2104

1.44 0.26 1.56 0.52

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

THE first round of the senior Victorian motocross championships for 2012 was held at the Wonthaggi track over the weekend.

There were around 390 entries spread over two days of competition, which is more than 50 above last year.

The Wonthaggi track will play host to a national event later in the year, which meant that the weekend attracted a handful of top class interstate riders, who wanted to get some practice in on the track.

The track held up well to two days of intense racing and only a few racing incidents were reported over the entire weekend.

Throttle on: Motocross racers vie for track space during a race on Sunday.

Winner: Todd Waters, from Atherton in far north Queensland was the winner of race two, heat two in the A lites class on Sunday.

Dirty sport: The racers get dirty as they fly around the first corner at the Wonthaggi motocross track on the weekend.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 51

Local winners at Woolamai SUNSHINE, a great crowd and some exciting racing made for a top finish for the Woolamai Picnic Racing Club’s season on Saturday.

Winning trio: Woolamai racing club president Robert Carmichael and wife and club secretary Bev were thrilled when their horse Just Jordie clocked up a ninth win at the local track, taking out line honours in Race Two.

St Pats party: Pauline Davies, Pakenham, Alana Fullerton, Loch and Jo Fullerton Moorooduc celebrated St Patrick’s Day and Jo’s fifth wedding anniversary at the Woolamai races on Saturday.

The winning Carmichael combination of Woolamai president Robert and wife and club secretary Bev worked hard with the committee to ensure another successful season.

Robert and Bev were rewarded for their efforts with a win in Race Two with their sprinter Just Jordie, a ninth time winner at Woolamai and Bev’s favourite.

Accepting the trophy af-

Ninth win: clocking up an impressive ninth win at Woolamai Just Jordie, winner of Race Two is led into the mounting yard by a local steward.

Surf school a State first TAKING surfing to a whole new level, Phillip Island’s Newhaven College now boasts a Surfing Academy, the first of its kind in any school in Victoria.

The Surfing Academy was officially opened on Friday evening and a large crowd attended, including Newhaven College principal Gea Lovell, teachers, staff, Surfing Academy head coach and guest speaker Mal Gregson, Member for Bass Ken Smith, chair of the board Antionette Mitchell, students and former students.

At the opening principal Lovell said before she arrived at the college six months ago to take on her new role as head of the college she had heard stories that if the surf was up numbers would be down at the school.

Mrs Lovell assured those gathered for the opening that comment was definitely wrong.

“Our students are very committed to their school and their studies and surfing, all at the right time,” Mrs Lovell said.

Mrs Lovell said she quickly learned

how important surfing is to the students and the Phillip Island community “and a Surf Academy just makes sense”.

“We need to have a point of difference at our college and I had no hesitation in saying yes to establishing a Surf Academy,” she said.

“This academy has grown out of a love and a passion for surfing.”

Newhaven College boasts a strong surfing pedigree, with a long history of national and state surfing champions including Rip Curl Shield winners, Vicorian Schools Team Title 2006-2008 and 2011, four times ‘MR’ Shield winners, Australian Schools Pairs Title, current student Nikki Van Dijk the 2011 Australian schools champion and World Number Three Junior and former student 2011 Under 19 Victorian champion Brock JeffreyWarren.

Head coach and Surfing Australia board member Mal Gregson said the Surf Academy would be structured in three tiers that would cater to all students, from beginners right through to the elite surfers.

Mr Gregson started surfing in the late 1960s. He is a Surfing Australia Level

Two Surf Instructor, a former Australian team coach and a state and national title holder. He has been a contest director of the RipCurl Pro at Bells and the Quiksilver World Grommet titles in Bali and has a wealth of experience surfing here and around the world.

“What we want is for every student attending Newhaven College to be able to say I gave surfing a crack,” Mr Gregson said.

Others who will assist at the academy will include Australian top five surfer Sandy Ryan, former World top 20 surfer Glyndyn Ringrose, Level Two coach and World Longboard head judge Eli Curry and former Newhaven student and State surfing winner Carl Wright.

“The Surf Academy will provide a wholistic approach to learning and the program will be about fun, safety in the water, health and respect for the environment,” Mr Gregson said.

The college has established a dedicated room for lessons, meetings, specialised coaching and guest speakers at the senior school campus and this was on show during the opening.

ter the race Bev said, “Just Jordie gave us a great thrill and Andrew Gauci rode him really well.

The Carmichaels are looking at returning Just Jordie to the professional races and are looking at Sale and Stony Creek in the near future.

They also took out the “Horse of the Year” for Woolamai and trainer Robbie Carmichael equalled in first place for “Trainer of the Year”.

Following on from his success last year, Yarram jockey Matthew Corbisiero scored a couple of wins on the day as did Raymond Douglas, after a protest in the last from rider Adam

Bodey.

Race 1 1508m WheelA-Waste Pty Ltd.: 1st Pellegrino, Adam Bodey; 2nd To Cry For, Raymond Douglas; 3rd Valmarina, Caitlin Jones.

Race 2 1008m The ‘Ryan Lang I Think I Want To Marry You Classic’ handicap: 1st Just Jordie, Andrew Gauci; 2nd Ballydoyle, Danielle Daniel; 3rd Mr Martindale, Matthew Corbisiero.

Race 3 1008m R.F. Mullaly Memorial Maiden handicap: 1st Gaja, Matthew Corbisiero; 2nd Delicate Jane, Jarrod Lynch; 3rd Destined To Rock, Andrew Gauci.

Race 4 2008m Groves

Estate Dorper Sheep Open Trophy Race handicap: 1st Blistered, Raymond Douglas; 2nd King of Dendy, Dani Walker; 3rd Cabernet King, Clayton Douglas.

Race 5 1708m The Wonthaggi Club Trophy Race (1) handicap: 1st Groenenboom, Matthew Corbisiero; 2nd Bubbly Black, Raymond Douglas; 3rd Mick’s Gift, Courtney Pace.

Race 6 1608m The Killy Pub & Bistro Open Trophy Race handicap: 1st Little Storm, Raymond Douglas; 2nd Whenwegoingeast, Adam Bodey; 3rd Flaming Gonzales, Clayton Douglas.

Local winner: Just Jordie, trained by Robert Carmichael of Woolamai and ridden by jockey Andrew Gauci won the second race at Woolamai on Saturday from No 2 Ballydoyle and No 3 Mr Martindale.

Join | Play | Live

Indoor Sports

Register Now for Winter 2012

Rally your friends together and get connected with South Gippsland SPLASH Indoor Sports.

Netball Thursday mornings.

Season commences April 18, 2012.

Soccer Wednesday nights.

Season commences April 19, 2012.

Registrations available online at www.sgsplash.ymca.org.au or at the Centre.

For further information please call 5662 5911.

Let’s go surfing: from left World top 20 surfer Glyndyn Ringrose, Phillip Island will be assisting with the new Surf Academy established at Newhaven College. He attended the official opening on Friday evening with former students and successful surfers India Payne and Jess Laing, Newhaven College principal Gea Lovell, and former students Bridget Gregson, Melissa Burt and Amber Goldsbury.

SG SPLASH Recreation Reserve Roughead Street, LEONGATHA 3953 Phone 5662 5911 Email: sgsplash@ymca.org.au

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Leongatha

ROUND one of the club championships was played in conjunction with the March monthly medal.

Barry Attwood had a great day scoring 79-15-64 to win B Grade and the medal.

David Poulton is a real challenger for the championship and he began well with 76-7-69 to win A Grade.

Gene Vanderzalm is a new member and he made his presence felt with an excellent 8722-65 to take C Grade.

D Grade went to Stephen Lacy with 77 net.

Simon Drummond won pro-pin and Nic Cairns took nearest the pin on the 14th hole.

Balls were won by H. Seddelies 66, R. Jacka 67, T. Steer, P. Stivic 68; P. Brownlie 70, D. Brown, S. de Bondt, N. Lafferty, A. Macfarlane, K. Wardle, J. Smith 71; J. Dalton, P. Du Plessis, R. Findlay, I. Barlow, M. Burt, N. Cairns 72; A. Smith, N. Johnson, Rob Jacka 73.

Leading players after round one are Michael Thomas 74 from David Poulton 76, and Nic Cairns 77. A minor sees Andrew Macfarlane on 79 ahead of Ken Wardle 80, and Rob Bride and Bruce Hutton together on 83.

In B Grade, Barry Attwood’s 79 leads from Ryan Jacka and Trevor Steer on 82.

C Grade is tight where Gene Vanderzalm leads on 87 ahead of Henry Seddelies 88 and John Dalton 89. Rob Jacka’s 97 has him just one shot in front of Bruce Cathie and Ed Kosciuk in D Grade.

Tuesday After beating his age last week, Allan Edney went close again, winning A Grade on 38

points. Phillip Baron had a day out, scoring 42 points to burn off the B Grade field. Norm Hughes and David Vorwerg were nearest the pin winners.

Down the line balls: I. Purbrick 38, D. Hanna, D. Webster, J. Eabry 37; M. Stubbs, T. Haywood, N. Hughes, G. Morrison 36; T. Moss, S. Moncur, T. McCarthy 34.

Thursday An Irish fourball saw two teams locked on 124 points, requiring a countback. Ron McCann, David Vorwerg, Ray Burton and Geoff McDonald were declared the winners.

The unlucky runners-up were Peter Hobson, Mike Wrigley, John Eabry and Gordon Morrison.

Ron McCann and Arthur Nilsson were equidistant from the pin on the 14th and Gordon Morrison was closest on the 16th.

Ball winners: R. Davies, M. Stubbs, A. Hawkins, P. Walsh 122; A. Sperling, C. Sperling, M. Herrald, F. Welsford 120.

Round two of the championships will be played on Saturday and the following week leading players in each grade will be drawn to play together.

Ladies Wednesday March 14 FIFTY-ONE ladies played stableford sponsored by Lyrebird Hill Winery, with the lucky winners taking home a selection of wines.

A Grade: Trish Owen on 41 pts, B Grade: Fay Quilford 40 pts and C Grade: Pam Christensen 36 pts.

NTP 14th: Coral Gray, 16th: Trish Owen DTL Balls: Julie Howard 40 pts, Maxine Eabry 39 pts, Wendy Brown 37 pts, Sharyn Rayson 37 pts, Jocelyn How-

son 36 pts, Coral Gray 35 pts, Sandra McCann 35 pts, Marion Bellingham 35 pts, Ann Blundy 34 pts, Georgina Mitchell 34 pts, Wendy Parker 33 pts C/B 4 others.

Nine hole comp winner: Pat West 18 pts and down the line Leanne Adamson 17 pts.

Saturday 17th March Eight ladies played stableford. Wendy Parker was the winner with 32 pts on a C/B from Anna de Bondt.

Nearest the pin 16th Rita de Bondt. Down the line balls: Anna de Bondt 32 pts, Georgina Mitchell 28 pts We will be hosting the Victorian Autumn Country Tournament for Golf Victoria on Tuesday, May 1 and Wednesday, May 2 and we will be needing lots of helpers over the course of the event.

If you are able to help in any way, please contact Toni West or Loris Clark.

Korumburra FIFTY-TWO players attended the stableford competition on Saturday March 17. Trophies Ian Gibson. The CCR was 70.

A Grade: R. Ludenia 37 pts on countback P. Johnson 37, M. Garnham 36, C. Clements 35, R. Spokes 34, L. Sharp 34.

B Grade: B. Clasby 38 pts on countback M. Belvedere 38, W. Hopkins, S. Rodda 35.

C Grade: C. Wilson 38 pts, B. Maskell, J. Wilson 37; P. Hopkins, W. Thomson, A. Worthy, T. O’Neill, R. Olsen, M. Trewin, T. Jones, R. Hamill 34..

Putting: 1st T. Jones, 7th B. Clasby, 10th B. Hessels, 13th B. Clasby.

NAGA: M. Bull 15 pts.

Tuesday’s winner J. Wilson 39 pts, R. Spokes 36.

Woorayl BENDIGO BANK sponsored our stableford event last Saturday in a form reversal.

The winner of A Grade and best score of the day was Ian Balfour with 42 points. Warren Turner took out B Grade with 40 points and C Grade was won by Greg Green with 39 points.

Balls went to A. Hickey, B. Hogan, B. Robjant, M. Grist, G. Calder, D. Symmons, Pat Wallace, C. Macri (Christin also eagled the 11th), D. Hunt, D. Perrett, R. Hughes, A. Hillis and J. Newton.

The nearest the pins went to Warren Turner and Gary Young.

Our Thursday competition was won

by John Diaper with 45 points, but only on a countback from Bo Fiek who won the first of the balls, followed by J. John-

Fun run ran well OVERCAST and drizzly was not a deterrent for the 167 walkers/ runners who came to compete in the inaugural Bass Coast Triathlon Club’s “Keeping Kids on Track” (KKOT) fun run at the foreshore car park in Kilcunda.

At 8am, the gun sounded to start the 17 athletes in the half marathon (21.1km) event, with the ambassador of the event Susie Power.

Several of the runners set off at a cracking pace down the picturesque Rail Trail toward Wonthaggi, passing drink stations manned by volunteers from several local clubs including Wonthaggi’s Little Aths, Surf Life Saving Club, Amateur Swimming and Power Football/ Netball clubs along with Bendigo Bank, Ausworkwear and the Dalyston Football/Netball club.

Some new Bass Coast Barracudas and South Coast Athletics members were cruising through the course like it was a leisurely stroll with Keith Colomb crossing the line in an impressive time of 1:25:11.

Whilst the half marathoners were slugging it out the 15km, 10km, 5km (some ran much further) and 3km participants were sent off at

30 min intervals proving a perfect way for all to enjoy their respective distances.

An impressive finish line, fruit and water was the reward, some chose to buy a sausage from the Kongor school support group (one of the beneficiaries of the event).

“Lesley Mckay (KKOT was in memory of) would be proud,” was a comment from a close friend of the lady passionate about her running who lost her battle with cancer last year.

“What was an idea with a name and a management plan six weeks ago,” said event organiser Deb Rielly.

“It has come together due only to the amazing support of a few passionate people, like Louise O’Keefe, Terra and Steve Plum, Vaughn Hendricks, Aus Workwear Wonthaggi, CFMEU community Support Group, all of the local businesses that believed it could happen and got behind us, last but certainly not least, The Bass Coast Shire council, the support that the council has given us has paved the way for this event to survive into the future.”

If you live in the area and haven’t walked/ ran/ridden the Rail Trail, then get out there and do yourself a favour.

For more info on the fun run or Bass Coast Triathlon Club ph. 0409 945 559 or log on to www.basscoasttri.com

annual tournament, with a fourball on Wednesday and a single stroke event on Saturday.

Ladies THIS week Invisage Interiors sponsored a 3BBB and the winning team with 78 points were Jill Linklater, Iris McLeod and Joan Smith.

Balls down the line went to Ann Poole, Sue Wakefield and Fay Maynard with 77 points and Anne Grist, Di O’Connor and Barb James with 76 points.

Nearest the pin on the 8th was Jo Fennell, on the 11th was Ros Blew and on the 17th was Janet Thompson. Next week is our tournament.

On Wednesday the ladies singles will be played and Friday the 4BBB, so good hitting everyone.

South Gippsland

Ladders

Mirboo North

Pennant results March 18

Division 3 Phillip Island........................1 - 5 Aussie Golf ................52.61 1 - 4 Foster.........................50.42 1 - 4 Leongatha .................46.85 1 - 4 Woorayl ......................53.15 0 - 3 Wonthaggi ..................49.58 0 - 3 Lang Lang ..................47.39 0 - 3 Korumburra ...........................0 - 2 Division 4 Lang Lang ............................1 - 7 Woorayl .....................54.92 1 - 5 Wonthaggi .................51.69 1 - 5 Welshpool .............................1 - 4 Aussie Golf ...........................0 - 3 Leongatha...................48.31 0 - 2 Korumburra ................45.08 0 - 2 Meeniyan...............................0 - 0

ON Wednesday March 14 the ladies’ first round of the stableford championships was played.

The winner was Maree Thompson (11) 36 points.

Nearest the pin 6th and 13th Chris Gunn. Birdie 4th Maree Thompson.

Division 3 (at Woorayl Golf Club): Foster 4 d Wonthaggi 3, Aussie Golf 4 d Lang Lang 3, Leongatha 4 d Woorayl 3, Phillip Island 5 d Korumburra 2.

Division 4 (at Aussie Golf Ranch): Lang Lang 7 d Meeniyan 0 (w/o), Wonthaggi 5 d Leongatha 2, Woorayl 5 d Korumburra 2, Welshpool 4 d Aussie Golf 3.

Divisions 1 and 2 commence April 1.

Classic golf for juniors THE South Gippsland Junior Golf Classic will be held at Lang Lang on Friday, April 13.

The event, which is regarded as the elite junior tournament for the South Gippsland region will see many of Melbourne’s top junior golfers competing against some of South Gippsland’s best.

The main event will be the 36 - hole scratch for the South Gippsland Junior Golf Foundation Shield for those in ‘A’ Grade (0 – 9). For those in ‘B’ & ‘C’ Grades the event had been reduced to 27 holes stroke.

Of the local juniors, Nic Cairns of Leongatha Golf Club is expected to give a good account of himself.

Past winners of this most prestigious event including Aaron Baddeley and John Sutherland both, who have carved out very successful professional careers. In addition to the main event there are many events for both scratch and handicap events.

The event is made possible through a grant from the Victorian Golf Foundation. Entries for local juniors can be found at all South Gippsland clubs, and should be forwarded to the tournament manager Mr. Denis Stanes, 14 Drysdale Street, Wonthaggi, 3995. Telephone entries will not be accepted. An entry fee of $30 is applicable for the event, which includes a light lunch.

Meeniyan

Running hot: overcast skies didn’t stop determine runners and walkers in the Keeping Kids on Track Fun Run. Photo by Trevor Foon.

ston and B. Challis.

The 17th nearest the pin went to our president, Graeme Winkler.

On the holiday Monday we held a four person ambrose sponsored by Leongatha Photographics. It was also greenkeepers’ revenge day.

The winners were the team of Mark Carruthers, Anthony Clemann, Peter Burgess and Gary Young. They won from Graeme Winkler, Damien Symmons, Jack Howard and Steve Hannon.

Balls to J. Baum, B. and T. Hogan and Rob Warren / C. Verboon, W. Turner, M. Grist, Damian Burge.

The men’s nearest the pins both went to our captain, while Jackie Hocken won the ladies’ nearest the pin on the 17th hole.

The coming week of course is our

SATURDAY saw a good field of 30 players turn up for the Ron Trease Knockout Qualifying round with the sponsor for the day being Nicholls Garage which is much appreciated.

The day’s event was a singles stableford, with scores suggesting that the course is in top knick.

The A grade winner was Craig Buckland with 39 points and in keeping it a family affair Chris was runner up with 37 points.

The B grade winner was Paul Trease with an excellent 44 points.

Runner up in B grade was Henry Mueller with 41 points.

Balls down the line went to John Dumont 40 pts, Alan Moxey 39 pts, Rod Matthews 37 pts and Graeme Hughes with 37 points.

Nearest the pin on the 14th was won by Jeff Wilson.

The pro pin on the 8th was won by Paul Trease.

The members draw was won by John Hyett won was not there so it jackpots to next week.

The super 66 winners this week were Irene Holm and Pam Erving.

Due to the inclement weather earlier in the month next Saturday will be monthly medal.

Friday night’s twilight golf saw 21 players venture out with the ladies winner being Jenny Cope with 15 points.

The mens winner was Troy Palmer with 21 points on a count back.

Balls down the line went

to Chris Buckland 21 pts, Cam LePage 21 pts and Ben Heppell with 17 points on a count back.

Nearest the pin was Ben Heppell and the raffle winner was Troy Palmer.

Tuesdays single stableford winner was Bob McGeary with 41 points.

Balls down the line went to John Walker 38 pts, Col Stewart 35 pts and Winno Reilly with 34 points.

Best nine was Will Bullock with 21 points.

Nearest the pin on the 8th was won by Bob McGeary.

The 4B aggregate was won

by Bob McGeary and Frank Peile with 70 points.

Thursdays single stableford winner was Col Stewart with 40 points.

Balls down the line went to Steve Collins with 36 points.

Nearest the pin on the 2nd was won by John Walker.

Ladies On a hot Wednesday, March 14, we had 18 Ladies play Stableford.

Tanya Thorson won Section 1 with 33 points. This was Tanya’s first week as a Section 1 competitor.

Section 2 winner was Jan Roberts 36 points and Section 3 was Lyn Jennison 24 points.

Best 9 went to Dot Elliott on 20 points.

Nearest the pin 2nd was Helen Boyle and nearest the pin 14th was Fay Smallman.

Down the line balls went to Linda Brown 35, Fay Smallman 31, Kristen Elliott 30 and Irene Holm 30.

There were 20 starters on Thursday March 15 for the midweek competition. CCR was 71.

The winner was Tony Tomada (22) 40 points.

Down the line: C. Bracecamp 38 pts, P. Garlick 37, J. Dumont 36.

Birdies 6th R. Hoskin and M. Higginbottom.

Foster THE course is in perfect condition for golf down at Foster at the moment.

Tuesday March 13, saw Athol McGrath (18) win with 38 pts from Neil Chandler (17) on 35 pts Our annual tournament was held from Thursday through to Sunday. Good fields and good weather made the tournament a great success. Thanks must go to tournament organiser Colin Pulham.

Thanks also to our sponsors Drummond Golf, ANZ Bank, Pulhams Furniture, Oil Patch Containers, Curram Panels and Restoration and Panthers Mensland.

The winners of Thursday’s Ambrose teams of four with an unbelievable score of 56 off-the-stick (yes – that’s 16 under par) and 52½ net were T. Johnson, M. Peel, D. Summers and G. Sanders. The second and third placegetters both had the same score of 56¼ net - firstly K. Finney, R. Bride, B. Stevenson and V. Olio, and then L. Pope, C. Bailey, B. Hodges and A. Hayes.

Friday’s 4BBB scratch winners were James Freeman and Tony Vanin with 71, with runners-up P. Durkin and R. Durkin with 75. Winners of the A Grade handicap were R. Johnston and M. Wrigley with 41 pts on a countback from P. Abraham and A. Sarcco. B Grade winners were S. Harris and M. Malady with 45 pts from runners-up J. Marnell and G. Donald with 44 pts.

A Grade on men’s day had the 27 hole scratch winner as Scott Jones (6) with 115, from M. Peel on 117. The 27 hole handicap went to Norm Cooper (10) with 107 from Steve Reid (10) on 108. The 18 hole handicap was won by A. Scarcco (11) with 73 net, with runner-up Lloyd McKenzie (8) on 74 net, and afternoon nine holes to Robert Fulton with 32½ net.

B Grade 27 hole scratch winner was G. Sanders (15) with 132, from Grumpy Drummond on 138. The 27 hole handicap went to P. Drummond (20) with 111 from Colin Pulham (17) on 113½. The 18 hole handicap was won by Fred Tyers (14) with 69 net from J. Fergusen (15) on 70 net, and afternoon nine holes to G. Jeffrey with 37 net.

The nearest the pins were won by Trevor Jones, Greg Cox, Norm Cooper (2 holes) and Elias Haddad who nearly holed out on the 17th.

Peter Wright won the encouragement award with 82 net.

The ladies event had Gayle Reid (24) continued her remarkable run of good form to win on a countback with 35 pts from Inneke De Graaf (22).

Sunday’s mixed Canadian scratch winners were Nick and Libby De Hey from Lang Lang with 79.

A Grade handicap went to Jim Parry and Beth Curram with 712/8 from runners-up E. and A. Poole on 714/8. B Grade was won by Trevor Jones and Margaret Payne with 747/8 with runners-up Ian and Janette Dixon on 75.

The encouragement award went to Lance and Pauline Lancaster with 81.

Our thanks to the many visitors from other clubs and especially to the boys from Northern who come every year and add such warmth to the atmosphere in the clubhouse too.

It was great over the whole tournament to see many trophies (probably the majority) won by non-locals.

In pennant the Division 3 side had its first match last Sunday against Wonthaggi. They won 4/3 with individual results being Kane Esler (20) won 1 up , Colin Pulham (17) won 2/1, Phil Schofield(17) won 3/2, Phil Nightingall (15) lost 5/3, Richard Johnston (13) lost 1 down, Ben Cooper (13) won 3/1, Greg Cox (11) lost 2 down.

Great win Kane in your first pennant game.

Division 3 start at 9.45am at Leongatha South this Sunday.

The team is Phil Nightingall (Captain), Colin Pulham, Kane Esler, Kevin Witheridge, Norm Cooper, Richard Johnston and Ben Cooper. Emergencies are Owen Kindellan, Trevor Jones and Andrew Naylor .

South Gippsland Veterans Day is at Foster this Thursday.

Anyone over 55 can join SG Veterans ($15 pa fee) and this gives access to monthly mid week events on most other courses in our association and some in other regions (Warragul, Moe, Drouin etc) for a nominal entry fee.

The event is at Foster this Thursday and you can just turn up, join and play for great trophies and enjoy the fellowship. Hit off is between 8.15 am and 9.30 am and everyone is welcome.

Susan Carrigan was not on hand to collect the $500 at Friday night’s members draw, so it remains available next week.

You must be in the clubhouse between 7pm and 8 pm when the draw is made to be eligible to win the cash.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 53

Loch bowls

THERE was a good attendance at Wednesday night’s Twilight Bowls. Winning team on the night was Tony Nettle, Graeme Kennedy and Bep Mandermaker.

On Sunday we held our annual Barry Logan Memorial Heart Support Day. We were delighted to again welcome Helen and members of the Logan family and friends.

The day was successful in raising $478 for

the Heart Foundation.

Kevin Queale and his team from Mirboo North were our winners. Runners-up were Ross Lomagno and his team from Korumburra. Best last game was won by Charlie Hodge and team.

Our ladies have their invitation day on Wednesday. Other events coming up are triples on Friday, March 30 and Poowong IGA day on Sunday, April 1. If you would like to play in these events please contact Geoff Barber on 5657 2212 or Greg Hodge on 5659 6444.

Bowling for caravans L E O N G AT H A Bowls Club hosted an open triples competition on Sunday, which included an open day with corporate sponsor, Chief Caravans.

Players and spectators were able to check out the custom made Arrow and Tribal vans, and ask any questions they had of the owners of the company, Kim and Mark Hanson. Mrs Hanson said that there was a lot of interest in the vans on the day, with a constant flow of people eager to inspect them from the inside out.

John Turner, vice-chairman of the bowls club said overall it was a great day.

Caravan experts: Mark and Kim Hanson from Chief Caravans showed their custom built caravans during the open day at the Leongatha Bowls Club on March 18.

“Numbers were slightly down from what we were expecting, but it was still a pleasing day,” Mr Turner said.

“Mark and Kim from

Chief Caravans were overwhelmed with the response to their caravans and have assured the club that their sponsorship will be ongoing; they were rapt”.

’Thaggi aths records fall

ATTENDANCE was light on for our second last meet for the season but there was plenty of action despite the low numbers. Three club records fell.

Brodie Anderson broke the Under 12 Boys 400 m record and Jai Williamson had a sensational night smashing the Under 7 Boys Triple jump record by 40 cm and also breaking the Under 7 Boys 80m hurdle record. To top this off, he scored four PBs out of a possible five.

Other competitors recording four PBs were Tadgh McGrath Under 7 Boys, Louis Armstrong and Jenson Garnham both in the Under 9 Boys and Lanni Pryor in the Under 10 Girls.

Next week is the final meet for the season, starting at 5.30 pm on Wednesday, March 21.

The last training session before the State Championships is on Thursday, March 22 at 6pm Presentation night will be held at the Dudley Campus Flexible Learning Centre on Thursday, April 19, starting at 6 pm.

Results Under 6 Boys 200 metre sprint: 1 Jett Garnham 44.79. 70 metre sprint: 1 Jett Garnham 13.97.

80 metre hurdle: 1 Jett Garnham 23.66. Discus: 1 Jett Garnham 9.95. Triple jump: 1 Jett Garnham 4.02.

Girls 200 metre sprint: 1 Olivia Bramley 55.70. 70 Metre sprint: 1 Olivia Bramley 16.62. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Olivia Bramley 30.45. Discus: 1 Olivia Bramley 9.20.

Triple jump: 1 Olivia Bramley 2.33.

Under 7 Boys 200 metre sprint: 1 Jai Williamson 39.18. 70 metre sprint: 1 Saher Biggs 12.46.

80 metre hurdles: 1 Jai Williamson 17.74. Discus: 1 Tadgh Mcgrath 13.58. Triple jump: 1 Jai Williamson 5.64.

Girls 200 metre sprint: 1 Tevuro Ihomana-Montgomery 46.04. 70 metre sprint: 1 Tevuro Ihomana-Montgomery 13.55. metre hurdles: 1 Tess Wingfield 20.97. Discus: 1 Tevuro Ihomana-Montgomery 10.82. Triple jump: 1 Tevuro Ihomana-Montgomery 4.45.

Under 8 Boys 100 metre sprint: 1 Jacob Timmermans 19.64. 400 Metres: 1 Jacob Timmermans 1:31.5. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Jacob Timmermans 18.98.

High jump: 1 Luke Bramley 0.80. Shot put: 1 Luke Bramley 4.11.

Girls 100 metre sprint: 1 Dallas Loughridge 18.30. 400 metres: 1 Dallas Loughridge 1:32.4. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Dallas Loughridge 17.07. High jump: 1 Dallas Loughridge 0.97. Shot put: 1 Dallas Loughridge 5.24.

Under 9 Boys 100 metre sprint: 1 Jenson Garnham 16.87. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Jenson Garnham 16.26. 800 metres: 1 Jenson Garnham 3:335. Discus: 1 Jenson Garnham 15.95. Triple jump: 1 Jenson Garnham 6.02.

Girls 100 metre sprint: 1 Nicola Slade 18.06. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Nicola Slade 18.40.

800 metres: 1 Chloe Bramley 3:31.2. Discus: 1 Mikaela Notley 12.42. Triple jump: 1 Chloe Bramley 5.51.

Under 10 Boys 400 metres: 1 Ben Wingfield 1:30.7. 70 Mmetre sprint: 1 Ben Wingfield 11.94. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Rohan Slade 18.92. Long jump: 1 Ben Wingfield 2.94.

Shot put: 1 Jarrod Anderson 5.22.

Girls 400 metres: 1 Lanni Pryor 1:16.6. 70 metre sprint: 1 Lanni Pryor 11.17. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Lanni Pryor 17.16.

Long jump: 1 Lanni Pryor 3.17. Shot put: 1 Lanni Pryor 5.57.

Under 11 Boys 100 metre sprint: 1 Mar-

cus Toussaint 16.11. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Marcus Toussaint 17.45. 800 metres: 1 Martin Peters 3:25.6. Discus: 1 Marcus Toussaint 16.64. Triple jump: 1 Marcus Toussaint 7.57.

Girls 100 metre sprint: 1 Cassie Fallaw 16.81. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Melody Notley 18.18.

800 metres: 1 Melody Notley 3:41.3. Discus: 1 Melody Notley 14.52. Triple jump: 1 Melody Notley 6.92.

Under 12 Boys 400 metres: 1 Brodie Anderson 1:08.4. 70 metre sprint: 1 Brodie Anderson 10.61. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Brodie Anderson 15.54.

Long jump: 1 Mitchell Fallaw 3.62. Shot put: 1 Mitchell Fallaw 5.84.

Girls 400 metre: 1 Bridget Lowe 1:20.3. 70 metre sprint: 1 Bridget Lowe 11.68.

80 metre hurdles: 1 Bridget Lowe 16.23. Long jump: 1 Bridget Lowe 3.22. Shot put: 1 Bridget Lowe 6.09.

Under 13 Boys 200 metre sprint:1 Andre Toussaint 32.95. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Andre Toussaint 17.82. 800 metres: 1 Andre Toussaint 3:25.4. High jump: 1 Andre Toussaint 1.35. Javelin: 1 Andre Toussaint 19.80.

Girls 200 metre sprint: 1 Stephanie Slade 39.52. 80 metre hurdles: 1 Georgia Filippi 23.10. 800 metre: 1 Stephanie Slade 3:43.3. High jump: 1 Georgia Filippi 1.15. Javelin: 1 Daisy Filippi 13.94.

Under 14 Boys 200 metre sprint: 1 Ethan Slade 27.15. 800 metres: 1 Ethan Slade 3:17.6. 90 metre hurdles: 1 Ethan Slade 16.12.

High jump: 1 Ethan Slade 1.10, Javelin: 1 Sam Peters 9.29.

Girls 200 metre sprint: 1 Tegan Lowe 33.25. 80 Metre hurdles: 1 Tegan Lowe 14.74.

Javelin: 1 Tegan Lowe 19.70, 2 Jade Dalton 16.44.

Inverloch bowls OUR March triples day attracted a field of 28 teams.

The day’s sponsors were the financial planners, Retire and Wealth. John Murdica, representing the company was present to present the prizes.

The club thanks John and his company for their continuing support.

After four games of 12 ends of two bowl triples there were only two four game winners.

Taking first prize with a score of 72 points was the Phillip Island team of Paul Brown (s), Peter Forrest (2nd) and John Batty (ld).

Following closely behind in second place with 70 points was the local team of Ron Lawson (s), Graeme Pope (2nd) and Arthur Moule (ld).

The drawn card prize went to the team of John Hedley, Denis Stanes and Keith Cousins.

The best last game prize of our club glasses went to the Korumburra team of Rob Snooks, Ron Williams and George Hams who scored 20 points.

It was great to see our oldest male member Ernie Treadwell back on the green playing bowls last Thursday after a lengthy spell of health problems.

Ladies THE last monthly triples of the season were a huge success with 18 teams participating. The sponsor was Slice of Paradise.

We were lucky to have two teams from Malvern participate and to show our appreciation they each received a glass.

Runners-up were the team of Veronica Muir, Shirley Cook

Dumbalk indoor ON Monday night, March 12 there were 12 players in four ends of three.

The first game was won

by Barbara, Seb, Dudley 1-16-10; second game 1-10, 8-00.

We played two ends of 10 which was a very good night had by all.

We hope to see you all again next Monday night at 7.30pm.

and Mavis Cridge, Winners were Hazel Crewdson, Gloria Caile and Greta Wilson with best last game winner being Mavis Parks, Sue Nation and Joan Clark.

Raffle winners were Rita Everitt, Anne Franchecini, Marg Flett, Nellie Martin, Leonie Hanks, Barbara Dyke, Avril van Wamel and Mary Palmer.

Special mention and a small presentation was made to the following people for attendance during the season. They were Carole Baines, Marg Flett, Pam Sutcliffe, Nell V. Grunsven, the Phillip Island team, Veronica Muir, Yvonne Kee, Shirley Cook, Maureen Paynting and Shirley Phillipson.

As always a special thank you to Lois Luby who is to take on this mammoth task again next season. Lois thanked Ivy Sheppard, Ray Paynting and everyone else who helped.

Buffalo indoor bowls ON Wednesday March 14, 40 bowlers came to Buffalo’s open night for some close exciting bowls and lots of chatter and catching up.

All clubs were well represented with 10 teams selected for three games of bowling.

After three games only one team consisting of Ian Benson (s), Glenys Pilkington, Mary Tumino and Ron Gloster had three wins (15 ends) and were the winners for the night.

Runners-up (WLW) on countback with 14 ends were Andy Plowman (s), Joyce Occhipinti, Angela Nuttall and Mary Cook from Toni Heldens’ team (WWL) 12 ends.

Five teams had drawn games (Bev Tyer’s team with two draws and a one shot win) showed how evenly teams bowled.

Encouragement award

went to Bill Wolswinkel (s), George Kirk, Joanne Lomagno and Lance Walker (LLD), winning nine ends.

The shot of the night was Ian’s last bowl of the second game, knocking opponents’ two scoring bowls off and stopping beside the kitty on the edge of the mat, leaving their six black bowls as counters to win the game (fluke bet he couldn’t do it again).

Numerous lucky ticket prizes, with Noelene McGlead having first choice.

Proceeds from the night were donated to the Buffalo Hall committee to assist with upkeep - greatly appreciated.

Thanks to everyone for the delicious supper, lucky ticket prizes and help at the end of the night.

Looking forward to return visits to other clubs’ open nights.

All welcome next Wednesday for social bowls at Buffalo Hall 7.30pm.

The competition ladder, at A little of last year’s magic returned for them and their conthe half-way mark of the seafidence will grow with the win. son, is Pretenders 22, VRI 22, ON Thursday, March 15, folUnfortunately, Kardella’s Battlers 20, The Burra 16, Silowing the end of round seven, fine performance from last cilians 12, Kardella 12, KookaKorumburra Parlor Bowls week against Pretenders didn’t burras 8. reached its mid-point for the materialise again this week Good luck to everyone in competition season. which was disappointing for the second half of the season as There was an interesting the Kardella players. every team is still within reach mixture of games (and results) In the third game, the two of the top four. as new players continued to top of the ladder teams had a On Monday, March 12 the settle into their teams and gain terrific battle that appropriately, social bias bowls group enthe rhythm of bowling. finished in a draw as scores had joyed two games of 10 ends.

Battlers outplayed Sicilians been level four times during the With four players in each team and at no time in the game were game with neither team manag- and a pep talk about bowling as challenged by Sicilians. Bat- ing to gain the upper hand. a team ringing in players’ ears, tlers obviously enjoyed their Players from both Pretend- everyone relished the role they week’s rest with last week’s ers and VRI look forward to were given. bye because they played a scin- their next meeting in the last The skippers, Sally, Mary, tillating game. Sicilians have round of the home and away Connie and Joe, read the play the bye this week and hope- matches but in the meantime, well, directing team-mates to fully, their improving form will five other teams deliver further bowl to position. also return after their break. challenges.

All the players bowled well Kookaburras faced KardelWeekly results were Batso the games were close and la in the second game of the tlers 30 d Sicilians 18, Kookaentertaining. night and it is pleasing to men- burras 24 d Kardella 16, VRI Joe’s team of Arc, Ashley tion that Kookaburras won the drew with Pretenders 17 all, and Joanna was the only two The Burra - bye. game. game winning team. and battle commenced with the first kitty down Mardan indoor for 2012 being bowled by elder statesman RonOUR 2012 season commenced last Wednesnie Baker. day, March 14, and it was good to see our At the end of the night the result came down members again, along with the new face of Ray to an ends won, as each team had won one and Saunders. lost one. Runners-up were Ron Baker, Ray There were 16 bowlers on the night. Bert Saunders and Ian Hasty skippered by Vito SeBright along with Ann and Andy Plowman rep- rafino with 10 ends and winners were Margaresented our club at Buffalo’s open night. Four ret Campbell, Sebastian Terranova and Russel Grady skippered by Cliff Smith. teams of four compete in two games of 10 ends

Korumburra parlor bowls

’Gatha aths final meet DAMP conditions failed to prevent a big group of competitors putting in terrific performances at Leongatha Little Athletics Club’s final meeting for the 2011/12 season last Saturday.

Demonstrating great improvement after five months of competition, the young athletes achieved a combined 140 personal best efforts across the velodrome oval and surrounds.

The club’s presentation night will be held on Friday, March 30, at St Laurence’s Primary School hall, starting at 5.30pm for a sausage sizzle and presentations following at 6pm sharp.

Please note this is a different time and date to the one advertised at the beginning of the season.

The presentations include participation medals for all athletes who have achieved 40 per cent attendance over the season, PB (personal best) champions and age champions.

Parents are asked to please bring a plate to share.

Personal bests recorded last weekend were as follows: Under 6 Boys: C. Swan

shotput, 50m.

Under 6 Girls: L. Patterson shotput, 50m; A. Snell long jump; N. Wight shotput; A. Carter shotput; L. Francis shotput; A. Scott shotput, 50m; M. Herbert long jump.

Under 7 Boys: R. Sturtevant javelin; E. Colwill shotput; H. Barnes shotput; X. Bolge shotput; D. Osborne long jump.

Under 7 Girls: C. Caithness 50m; N. Crimp long jump, 50m; E. Snell 50m; A. Patterson shotput, 50m; T. Matheson 50m, long jump.

Under 8 Boys: C. Quinlan shotput, 50m, triple jump; L. Marshman 50m; R. Carter triple jump; J. Bongers triple jump, shotput; J. Wight triple jump.

Under 8 Girls: J. Standfield triple jump, shotput; L. Caithness triple jump; A. Ritchie triple jump; F. Burgess-Pincini shotput, 200m.

Under 9 Boys: R. Giliam javelin, 200m; M. Matheson 100m, 200m, 50m; S. Herbert 200m.

Under 9 Girls: C. Allen javelin; T. Kelly 50m; J. Woods 50m, 200m; M. Scott 200m; T. Snell javelin.

Under 10 Boys: D. Sturtevant 200m, 800m; R. Frank 200m, 800m, discus; A. Herbert 200m, 800m; A. Ritchie discus, 50m; N. Bongers long jump, 50m; A. Trease long

jump, 50m.

Under 10 Girls: J. Rhoden discus, 50m, 200m, long jump, 800m; M. Cruickshank 50m, discus, 200m; A. Marshman discus, 50m; L. Colwill discus, 200m, 800m, long jump; E. Lyons discus, 800m, 50m, 200m, long jump; C. Standfield 200m, 50m, 800m; M. Birrell discus, long jump, 50m; K. McJames-Court 50m, 200m.

Under 11 Boys: D. Mancarella discus; A. Hendriske 800m, discus; C. Scott discus; J. Burgess-Pincini 200m, 800m; N. Matheson 200m.

Under 11 Girls: J. Caithness 50m, 200m; L. Riseley 800m, javelin, 200m; A. Forrester javelin; S. Allen discus,

800m, javelin; P. Hendriske 800m, discus.

Under 12 Boys: B. Thorson 50m.

Under 12 Girls: E. Burns 50m, javelin, 200m; T. Swan javelin, 200m, long jump; N. Allen javelin, 800m; M. Clark 800m, javelin, long jump; J. McJames-Court 200m; A. Wrigley 200m, 50m, long jump, 800m.

Under 13 Boys: M. Hendriske triple jump, 50m, 200m, 800m, shotput; J. Norton 50m, 200m, triple jump.

Under 13 Girls: L. Akers 50m; N. Stockdale 800m, shotput.

Under 14 Girls: G. Martin 50m, 200m, triple jump, shotput.

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

By Brad Lester KELLY Laity is a Victorian state champion, has surfed around Australia and at the age of just 15, receives support from surfing label Billabong.

The highlight of her youthful career was placing fourth at the Australian titles in 2010, and last December she joined with fellow Victorian surfer Zoe Clarke to win an Australian teams trial.

She harbours ambitions of surfing on the professional circuit, but for the Sandy Point teenager, the thrill of riding the perfect wave is what continues to draw her back to the beach.

“The ideal wave is 25 degree water, a four foot barreling left hander over sand. On my left hand side, my chest would be facing the wave so that makes the barrel pretty awesome,” she said.

“A perfectly clean four foot barrel wave is just the best feeling.

“For the last four years, I’ve never had a week off where I have not surfed for at least one day.”

Kelly recently won the Under 18 Victorian State Title for 2012 at Phillip Island and is now preparing for the school titles in May, despite battling a shoulder injury. Already surfing in the open women’s division of the state surfing title, the outgoing teenager oozes the confidence of an experienced competitor ready to take on the world’s best in the sport.

“It’s a dream to turn pro but it can’t be just a dream. You have to do something about it. It would be really cool (to turn professional). I want to do really well at school first and will just keep on competing until then,” Kelly said.

“Coming from down Sandy Point, it’s hard to pick up sponsorship and to get your name out there. At Torquay and even on Phillip Island, they all have these big companies there, so it’s pretty easy to get your name out there.”

Kelly first contested a state title as an 11-year-old and placed second in the Under 13 division.

Surfing competitions are typically judged on a surfer’s best two waves in a 20 minute heat, with each wave offering the

potential to earn up to 10 points.

Judges look for radical, controlled manoeuvres in the critical section of the wave – close to the curl of the wave, the point at which the wave is about to break.

“I surf most nights between Walkerville and the Prom, depending on the conditions,” Kelly said. She adds gym work, running, yoga and cycling to round out her fitness program.

Coach Derek Bassed, also of Sandy Point, described his protégé as “gutsy”.

“She’s a powerful surfer and fit,” he said.

Both are members of the South Coast Boardriders surfing club based at Sandy Point.

The Year 10 student at South Gippsland Secondary College, Foster, credits her parents Gene and Janine, and brother Sam for supporting her surfing ambitions.

“Sometimes it’s just good to get out there and clear your head and sometimes you have some energy to burn off,” Kelly said.

She also thanked Atoll Travel at Foster, Jamie Gair of Shearwater Surfboards at Waratah North, Billabong, and Derek, his wife Megan and family, for their support.

Magical spot, enthralling sport: Kelly Laity is savouring the moments surfing presents.

Pre-season warms up FOOTY is hot on the heels of the cricket season and practice matches are happening on many local grounds.

Practice matches and pre-season action is underway for both netballers and footballers.

S k F b ll Stony C Creek Football Club hosted Buln Buln on the weekend while

Korumburra-Bena Bulldogs took on Wonthaggi Power.

Dalyston hosted Nyi match h ora ffor a practice on Sunday while the Leongatha Parrots took on

Vermont on top of other games in the area.

The Alberton Football Netball season kicks off M h 31 hil the h on March 31, while Gippsland League draw begins on April 14.

Foster netballers win again

Hard slug: Korumburra-Bena’s Nick Besley attempted to take down his Wonthaggi opponent in a practice match on Sunday.

Going hard: Stony Creek’s Tim Lonsdale tries to get his hands on the ball during the Lions’ practice match against Buln Buln on the weekend. Photo courtesy Gerard Bruning@ www.fourcornersframing.biz.

FOSTER A Grade netballers made it back to back wins at Phillip Island’s third Annual Netball Tournament in Cowes on Saturday, March 17.

Sponsored by the Bendigo Bank of Cowes, the tournament attracted teams from Foster,

Stony Creek, Phillip Island, Somerville, Rosebud, Cranbourne and Frankston.

All the games were played in good spirit and the conditions were conducive for good games of netball.

The Island and the other teams used the day as a 2012 season warm up, trying out their

players in different positions and combinations throughout the day.

Results Open – Foster 14 defeated Frankston 5; Reserve – Cranbourne 11 defeated Foster 10.

Phillip Island’s teams finished in third place in both sections.

Winners: Foster A Grade netballers Brittany McKenzie, Megan Hall, Jessica Pulham, Hannah Bassett, Theresa Dalmau, Carla Bassett, Nicole and Tarryn McKenzie won the open section at Phillip Island’s third Annual Netball Tournament in Cowes on Saturday, March 17.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 55

Allambee Mirboo and District tennis Grand final

A GRADE had the close match of the day, level before the mixed.

A Grade runners-up: Baromi, (back from left) Mandy Snell, Frank Dekker, Ben Webb, (front) Shelley Walker, Lauren Snell and Wendy Gervasi. (Absent, Ron Richards.)

A Reserve runners-up: Koonwarra, (back from left) Mick Hemming, Steve Charlton, Karsten Krohn, Grant McColl, (front) Michelle Charlton, Rhonda Newton and Kaylene Chapman.

B Grade runners-up: Korumburra, (back from left) Chris Amor, Craig Brown, Brad Perks, (front) Kirby Miletto, Lorren Amor and Michelle Perks.

The first mixed set was a tiebreaker to Leongatha North, a top set of tennis. The second mixed 8/6, again to Leongatha North, and a three game break to North’s team.

The last set Adrian and Wendy won the first five games, Ron and Wendy fought back but Leongatha North had won the day.

Premiers again.

A Reserve: Leongatha men won the three sets, a good start for the team.

Sherrill and Narge played very well to win the first and second ladies 6/1. Koony were only able to win two sets for the day.

After close sets all season and Koonwarra holding top position, Leongatha are premiers again.

B Grade: Outtrim were on top of this grade all season. Korumburra have had a very good year and must be pleased with their improvement.

Outtrim won two men’s, two ladies and two mixed, a good even team effort.

Results A Grade: Leongatha North 6.65 d Baromi 3.60.

A Reserve: Leongatha 7.50 d Koonwarra 2.30.

B Grade: Outtrim 6.47 d Korumburra 3.29.

What a great team of supporters for all matches. Well done to all, a credit to all clubs and extended support groups.

Presentation night held at the RSL was well supported. Thanks to Ricky for organising set-up of the tables etc.

Frank called on different members from each section to present tropies and this worked very well.

Trophies were presented to tournament winners that were played during the season.

Most games won (tennis Brownlow) A tally of games and sets are kept through the season. This was a very close count. A list of each player’s games and sets won are given out on this night. A few players were surprised at the end results.

A Grade: (ladies) Emily Wilson, (men) Sam Wilson.

A Reserve: (ladies) Kaylene Chapman, (men) Greg Edwards.

B Grade: (ladies) Lesley Turton, (men) Chris Amor.

Well done to all players, a good season.

This year raffles were given by each club which worked well, lots of draws and so lots of winners.

Hallston were the host club and finished a well run season.

Veterans end game LEONGATHA Tennis Club Wednesday Social Tennis Group members gathered in the clubrooms on March 14 after their morning tennis to celebrate Super Vet Harry Christensen’s 90th birthday.

The other Super Vet Bob Burdekin celebrated this milestone in December 2011.

Both had been playing their regular Wednesday game until quite recently, when health problems forced their early retirement.

A quick wit and dry sense of humour displayed by both made them very popular with other players.

Veterans: Harry Christensen and Bob Burdekin have hung up their racquets after a long tennis playing career.

Both were also noted as being regularly distracted by any player of the opposite sex that may have been playing on an adjacent court.

Many a partner could be heard to say, “Keep your

eye on the ball, Harry, (or Bob)” as the case may have been.

Both were inaugural members of the social tennis group, set up some 20 years ago by the late Jack Salmons.

They have played a lot of sets of tennis since that time. Both also played Saturday tennis over many years in the Alambee and Mirboo North Associations.

Bob and Harry were also members of the successful “Evergreens” night tennis team for many years, this team boasting an average age of over 65 years.

What they lacked in speed and mobility was countered by extreme cunning, and many younger players were left wondering as to how they lost the game to these old fogeys.

Many memories of times past were discussed by those present and the best of wishes conveyed to both these popular veterans of the tennis court.

A Grade premiers: Leongatha North, (back from left) Adrian Littlejohn, Warren Littlejohn, Justin Krohn, (front) Wendy Watkins, Kerry Rayson and Michelle Krohn.

A Reserve premiers: Leongatha, (back from left) Steve Boag, Matt Howard, Ben Wilson, (front) Nicole Duncan, Sherril Winkler and Marge Barter.

B Grade premiers: Outtrim, (back from left) Paul Turton, Gavin Furness, Troy Grabham, (front) Kathy McRea, Lesley Turton, Sharon Shepherdson and Lyn Fowles.

South Gippsland Bridge Results Meeniyan – Monday evening.

1st June Metcalf, Colin Cameron. 2nd Kathryn Smith, David Baggallay. 3rd Faye Rowlands, Frank Arndt. 4th Sally and Brian Hoskins.

Tarwin Lower – Tuesday Afternoon.

North/South: 1st Jack Kuiper, John Sutton. 2nd Frank Arndt, Clive Hope. 3rd Margaret Smith, Anne Gibson.

East/West: 1st Jean Barbour, Greg Nicholson. 2nd John Sullivan, Alan Johnston.

3rd John Cocking, June Metcalf.

Inverloch – Friday Round 1 of Club Championship Pairs.

North/South: 1st Anne and Bruce Gibson. 2nd Jack Kuiper, Jean Barbour. 3rd Greg Nicholson, Pam Thresher. 4th Shirley Stewart, Debbie Anglim.

East/West: 1st Kaye Douglas, John Sutton. 2nd Faye Rowlands, Pat West. 3rd Mavis Parks, Ron Webster.

Korumburra basketball Domestic results March 14

10 Girls: Dowel 17 (E. Nicholas 10), d Donohue 13 (E. Trewin 4); Fitzgerald 14 (G. Matser 10) d Blair 8 (T. Angwin 8).

12 Girls: Jackson 15 (J. Chiller 8) d Taylor 12 (A. McQueen 4); Snell 22 (M. Hillier 12) d Harrower 9 (C. Moody 4).

Masters: Mixtures 50 (Mr Kotter 9) d BSC 46 (B. Grabham 17); Travelling Gilmores 48 (D. Brydon 17 d Local Blokes 40 (L. Whiteside 8); Milk Drinkers 26 (S. Burgess 11) d Witches Hats 23 (J. Walker 7).

A Men: Wildcats 67 (J. Winderlich 20) d Hacks 30 (D. McMeekin 20); Molten 67 (A. Zuidema 18) d Blood 56 (M. Walker 20).

March 16

10 Boys: Tigers 12

(B. Smith 4) d Blaze 3 (T. Crocker 2); Kings 16 (J. Harris 10 d Crocs 12 (A. Turton 10).

12 Boys: Wizards 52 (J. Newcome 16) d Knicks 19 (T. Kelly 10); Heat 32 (M. Bentvelzen 22) d Hawks 10 (R. Treacy 6); Magic 31 (T. Hanegraff 12) d Wildcats 23 (C. Alger 17).

14 Boys: Jazz 40 (J. Wyhoon 28) d Lakers 37 (R. Treacy 12); Kings 37 (J. Stockdale 14) d Spurs 26 (T. Whiteside 8).

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

• LDCA B GRADE DIVISION TWO

Shock win to MDU

MDU pulled off the biggest upset of cricket when in B Grade Division Two

they defeated top side Korumburra on the weekend.

Korumburra batted first on their home ground and

compiled 156 which was a lot short of what they had hoped.

Steve Riley had a big part to play in this match, with some superb bowling seeing

him take 6/71 including the wickets of the top four ‘Burra bats. Jason Richards top scored for ‘Burra with 40.

In reply MDU’s Dean Jones was the top scorer, the

opener being run out for 46.

Importantly though, the score at this stage was 3/127 and United was well on the way.

United batted patiently and formed enough small partnerships to get them over the line.

In the other semi, Kilcunda-Bass reached the grand final with 9/215, defeating OMK 156.

Killy-Bass batted through the whole 90 overs, with a number of players in the 40s.

Chris Truscott took 5/45 for the Diggers.

In reply OMK was all out for 156 after 71 overs. G Miller 44, D. Halliday 40 not out, and R. Quaife 33 provided stiff resistance but when Miller and Quaife departed the tail disintegrated.

KORUMBURRA lt MDU 1st innings Korumburra K. Miller lbw. b. S. Riley.............................25 A. Balfour c. M. Martin b. S. Riley.............................10 J. Richards c. D. Thomas b. S. Riley.............................40 T. Allen b. S. Riley .....................1 P. Dunlevie c. T. Zukovskis b. C. Harris ...........................28 N. Allen stp. J. Sinclair

Got him!: the Korumburra Cobras celebrate a wicket in their semi final on the weekend.

b. L. Mercer............................1 J. Turnbull c. D. Thomas b. S. Riley...............................1 D. Fearnley c. M. Martin b. D. Thomas ........................26 T. Gray c. D. Thomas b. S. Riley...............................5 L. Williams c&b. B. Spokes.......1 H. James n.o. ..............................0 Extras ......................................18 Total .......................................156 Bowling: M. Martin 0/16, L. Mercer 1/15, S. Riley 6/71, B. Coulter 0/32, B. Thomas 1/10, B. Spokes 1/0, C. Harris 1/0.

1st innings MDU D. Jones r.o. (N. Allen) ............46 C. Harris lbw. b. J. Turnbull ........................13 T. Zukovskis lbw. b. L. Williams .......................29 B. Spokes lbw. b. L. Williams .......................19 J. Sinclair lbw. b. L. Williams .........................6 D. Thomas n.o. .........................15 M. Martin n.o. ..........................17 Extras ......................................24 Total ....................................5/169 Bowling: L. Williams 3/58, H. James 0/26, J. Turnbull 1/31, N. Allen 0/21, G. Gray 0/5, P. Dunlevie 0/21.

KILCUNDA-BASS d OMK 1st innings Kilcunda-Bass T. Aplin c. G. Lomagno b. C. Truscott ........................20 R. Gardiner r.o..........................43 J. Tregear b. C. Truscott .............0

H. Grace r.o. ...............................7 S. Blake c. b. C. Truscott ..........................9 D. Masinovic c. b. G. Lomagno .....................41 D. Clay c. b. R. Quaife ..........................10 R. Duff n.o. ..............................49 J. Dakin c&b. C. Truscott...........3 B. Egeberg n.o............................3 B. Nicholls b. C. Truscott...........4 Extras ......................................26 Total .............................9/215 (cc) Bowling: G. Lomagno 1/37, G. Adams 0/28, B. Maguire 0/17, C. Truscott 5/45, R. Quaife 1/31, G. Knox 0/2, C. O’Brien 0/26, D. Halliday 0/17.

1st innings OMK G. Lomagno b. R. Duff ..............5 P. Miller r.o.................................4 G. Miller c. H. Grace b. S. Blake ............................44 D. Halliday n.o. ........................40 R. Quaife b. S. Blake ...............33 G. Adams lbw. b. B. Nicholls .........................8 C. Truscott c. R. Duff b. S. Blake ..............................1 G. Knox r.o.................................2 B. Maguire b. S. Blake ...............5 C. O’Brien b. S. Blake ...............0 T. Knox c&b. H. Grace ..............6 Extras ........................................8 Total .......................................156 Bowling: D. Masinovic 0/25, R. Duff 1/21, B. Egeberg 0/18, S. Blake 5/54, H. Grace 1/1, B. Nicholls 1/32, J. Dakin 0/5.

• LDCA B GRADE DIVISION ONE • LDCA C GRADE DIVISION ONE

OMK, Workers face off Wonthaggi teams in final

OMK and Wonthaggi Workmens will face off in the grand final after recording respective victories over Inverloch and Phillip Island.

Craig Harvey again came under notice with a top score of 42 in the Workers’ win over the Island. But with the lower order firing better than their top order counterparts it could be an interesting batting order decided at the selection table for the final.

Cleeland and Niven took three wickets apiece for the Island, with Workers finishing with 209.

In reply the Island lost Cleeland early for 5 with only a small resistance by the middle order.

Liam Sawyer took 4/22 for Workers.

In the other semi OMK won the toss and batted at Inverloch rec reserve, with the standout being the fine batting of Dylan McMeekin with

85. At 5/39 McMeekin had to carry the innings forward under great pressure from Inverloch’s bowlers.

But with Harper 39 holding down an end, the Diggers posted a reasonable target of 190.

In reply Inverloch slumped to 7/44 and never recovered from here.

B. Sword, after taking 4/42 on the Saturday, backed this up with a fine innings of 44 when all was lost, but Inverloch finished well short at 124.

WON WORKMENS d PHILLIP ISLAND 1st innings Won Workmens D. Dutchman c. R. Cleeland b. S. Niven..............................4 S. Huitema lbw. b. R. Cleeland.......................19 L. Sawyer c. G. Odgers b. S. Niven..............................0 C. Harvey b. R. Cleeland .........42 D. Turton c. L. Keating b. R. Cleeland.........................4 A. Yann c. J. Broomhall b. M. Francis ........................31 A. McLean c. G. Excell b. G. Odgers ...........................4 S. Williams c&b. D. Johnston ..27 J. Sheerin stp. J. Broomhall b. Z. Brown .......................... 11

Leongatha District Cricket Association Umpire Appointments EVANS PETROLEUM Grand final - March 24 & 25 Home team Away Team Grade A1 Won Workmens v Inverloch Grade A2 Phillip Island

v Kilcunda-Bass

Grade B1 Won Workmens v OMK Grade B2 Kilcunda-Bass

v MDU

Grade C1 Won Workmens v Won Miners Grade C2 OMK

v Imperials

Ground

Umpire

W Turf

C. Salmon G. Laird

I Turf

A. Jordan K. Lester

Glen Alvie A. Roberts M. Heenan McM Res Les White T. Rogers Outtrim

Bil Thomas B. Bek

Kor Rec A. Stride J. Lea Res P. Absolon

L. McGuirk c. Z. Brown b. S. Niven............................32 J. Thomas n.o. ..........................24 Extras ......................................10 Total .......................................209 Bowling: R. Cleeland 3/33, S. Niven 3/34, G. Odgers 1/81, M. Francis 1/9, D. Johnston 1/21, Z. Brown 1/24.

1st innings Phillip Island R. Cleeland c. C. Harvey b. A. McLean..........................5 B. Johnston c. J. Sheerin b. A. McLean..........................9 J. Broomhall c. J. Sheerin b. J. Thomas ...........................0 L. Keating c. A. Yann b. L. Sawyer .........................19 M. Francis lbw. b. L. Sawyer .........................22 G. Excell b. L. Sawyer ...............7 P. Francis b. J. Thomas...............8 S. Niven b. L. Sawyer ................0 G. Odgers r.o. (S. Huitema) .......0 D. Johnston n.o. .........................7 Z. Brown r.o. (S. Huitema) ......19 Extras ......................................21 Total ....................................... 117 Bowling: S. Williams 0/25, A. McLean 2/15, L. McGuirk 0/23, J. Thomas 2/12, A. Yann 0/0, L. Sawyer 4/22, C. Harvey 0/13, D. Turton 0/1.

INVERLOCH lt OMK 1st innings OMK A. Miller lbw. b. A. Hall ..............................28 T. Miller c. W. Holmes b. B. Sword ............................0 R. White lbw. b. M. Anderson.......................2 J. Cochrane stp. L. Sharrock b. A. Hall ................................2 D. McMeekin c. C. Dudek

b. B. Sword ..........................85 W. Dowell c. J. Ogden b. A. Hall ................................3 J. Paterson c. M. Anderson b. C. Dudek ............................8 P. Harper c. S. Brayley b. B. Sword ..........................39 D. Jeffries c. J. Griffiths b. B. Sword ............................4 M. Hems c. W. Holmes b. J. Griffiths ..........................7 P. Green n.o. ...............................0 Extras ......................................12 Total .......................................190 Bowling: B. Sword 4/42, J. Courtenay 0/33, M. Anderson 1/27, A. Hall 3/14, C. Dudek 1/26, J. Ogden 0/16, W. Holmes 0/17, J. Griffiths 1/6.

1st innings Inverloch L. Sharrock c. P. Harper b. P. Green ..............................2 S. Brayley c. A. Miller b. P. Green ..............................1 C. Dudek lbw. b. R. White .............................7 N. Goodall b. J. Paterson ...........9 J. Ogden b. R. White ..................7 M. Anderson stp. P. Harper b. D. Jeffries .........................14 W. Holmes b. J. Cochrane ..........1 J. Courtenay c. J. Cochrane b. M. Hems...........................18 J. Griffiths c. J. Cochrane b. R. White .............................1 B. Sword c. D. Jeffries b. D. McMeekin ...................44 A. Hall n.o. .................................5 Extras ......................................14 Total .......................................124 Bowling: R. White 3/28, P. Green 2/25, J. Paterson 1/20, D. McMeekin 1/6, D. Jeffries 1/11, J. Cochrane 1/15, M. Hems 1/12.

WORKERS will meet Miners in an all Wonthaggi grand final in C Grade Division One. Inverloch all out for 111 batting first was no match for Workers who made 8/129.

James Dalmau took the best figures of all cricket over the weekend with 6/52, while Shannon Coldebella took 4/25 for Workers.

In the other match Miners batted first and made an excellent 249, with top scorer Adam Zanella with 63 and Geoff Peters a half century.

In reply Kilcunda-Bass made 153, with opener Aurisch hitting 44.

WON MINERS d KILCUNDA-BASS 1st innings Won Miners T. Latham lbw. b. T. Stacey-Van Steensel .......7 R. Jones lbw. b. D. Aurisch ........................10 C. Gooch lbw. b. T. Stacey-Van Steensel .......1 C. Honeysett c. b. D. O’Neill ........................44 G. Peters lbw. b. I. Brown ...........................50 A. Zanella b. A. Blackney ........63 P. Loos c. b. I. Brown .............................3

T. Hamilton b. A. Blackney........3 B. Foon c. b. I. Brown ...........................31 A. Johnson b. A. Blackney .........2 T. Walker n.o. .............................4 Extras ......................................31 Total .......................................249 Bowling: T. Stacey-Van Steensel 2/56, A. Blackney 3/39, I. Brown 3/67, D. Aurisch 1/46, D. O’Neill 1/26.

1st innings Kilcunda-Bass D. Aurisch b. R. Jones..............44 S. Ashenden c. B. Foon b. C. Honeysett.......................3 A. Blackney r.o. .........................4 D. Petrie c. T. Latham b. A. Johnson ..........................1 I. Brown c. T. Latham b. T. Walker ..........................19 B. Fisher lbw. b. P. Loos ..............................30 T. Stacey-Van Steensel lbw. b. P. Loos ..............................22 S. Van Steensel b. T. Walker ......1 D. O’Neill b. P. Loos................ 11 J. Huckett c&b. T. Walker ..........5 J. Oates n.o. ................................0 Extras ......................................13 Total .......................................153 Bowling: C. Honeysett 1/23, T. Hamilton 0/13, R. Jones 1/26, A. Johnson 1/10, T. Walker 3/48, P. Loos 3/28.

WON WORKMENS d INVERLOCH 1st innings Inverloch I. Fowler b. S. Coldebella ..........0 B. Phillips b. A. Lang .................5 N. Brayley b. S. Coldebella .......4 D. Houston c. C. Rigby b. J. Turner ...........................10

J. Brosnan c. b. A. Lang.............................12 I. Smith c. b. S. Coldebella ....................38 W. Williams c. b. J. Turner ...........................28 J. Jackson b. C. Rigby ................6 M. Goldsmith b. S. Coldebella...0 J.P. Dalmau n.o...........................0 J.A. Dalmau c. B. Jeffries b. C. Rigby .............................1 Extras ........................................7 Total ....................................... 111 Bowling: S. Coldebella 4/25, A. Lang 2/21, J. Turner 2/37, L. McLean 0/27, C. Rigby 2/0.

1st innings Won Workmens S. Osborne b. J.A. Dalmau.......13 B. Jeffries c. I. Smith b. J.A. Dalmau .......................0 A. Lang b. J. Jackson ...............43 R. Geyer c. W. Williams b. J.A. Dalmau .......................3 I. Barnes lbw. b. J.A. Dalmau .......................7 L. McLean c. D. Houston b. J.A. Dalmau .......................5 J. Turner c. b. J.A. Dalmau .......................8 S. Roche n.o. ............................24 S. Morison c. b. D. Houston .........................8 S. Coldebella n.o. .......................3 Extras ......................................16 Total ....................................8/129 Bowling: J.A. Dalmau 6/52, D. Houston 1/29, J. Jackson 1/17, J.P. Dalmau 0/3, I. Smith 0/7, W. Williams 0/13, I. Fowler 0/1.

• LDCA C GRADE DIVISION TWO

Imperials surprise Phillip Island LEONGATHA based teams were almost going to miss all grand finals until Imperials bobbed up and defeated Phillip Island.

Imperials sent the Island in and the Islanders made just 130, giving Imps a big chance. J. Bourke took 4/32, Glenn Wright 3/21 and Lachie Wright 2/39.

In reply Imps scored 7/149 with top scorer being B. Maskell on 32 not out.

In the Imps grand final three generations of the Wright

family will be playing (see separate story page 49).

In the other semi OMK 8/297 thumped MDU Red who made 163.

A massive 156 partnership was recorded by Keith Houghton 88 and Matthew Walker 89 to drive home the win.

OMK d MDU RED 1st innings OMK D. Wylie c. K. Sinclair b. D. Tuckett ..........................29 D. Olden r.o. (K. Sinclair) ........... 9 C. Walker lbw. b. D. Tuckett ..........................45 K. Houghton c. D. Sinclair b. D. Tuckett ..........................88 M. Walker c. M. Olden b. P. Robinson ........................89 T. Eustace b. D. Tuckett .............. 0

L. Wilson b. P. Robinson ...........18 M. Chizzonitti b. P. Robinson ..... 0 N. Audino n.o. ............................. 0 Extras ........................................19 Total.............................. 8/297 (cc) Bowling: K. Brown 0/79, M. Olden 0/24, J. Riley 0/46, D. Tuckett 4/59, T. Sinclair 0/11, P. Robinson 3/33, K. Sinclair 0/36.

1st innings MDU Red Extras ........................................17 Total.........................................163 Bowling: T. Eustace 3/37, D. Wylie 0/18, L. Wilson 0/15, N. Audino 1/20, D. Olden 2/41, M. Walker 2/19, D. Wylie 1/5.

PHILLIP ISLAND lt IMPERIALS 1st innings Phillip Island B. Johnston c. N. Hodges b. L. Wright.............................. 7 R. Purcell b. B. Maskell .............. 2

L. McFee c&b. G. Wright .........16 R. Good c. T. Cashin b. L. Wright.............................. 0 P. Cashman lbw. b. G. Wright ............................. 6 A. Cameron b. G. Wright ..........41 L. Papa lbw. b. J. Bourke .............................. 0 M. Haringsma c. B. Wright b. J. Bourke .............................. 7 G. Marshall c. N. Hodges b. J. Bourke .............................. 2 D. Kenter c. B. Maskell b. J. Bourke .............................. 3 R. McKenzie n.o........................35 Extras ........................................ 11 Total.........................................130 Bowling: L. Wright 2/39, B. Maskell 1/26, G. Wright 3/21, J. Bourke 4/32, P. McGavin 0/8.

1st innings Imperials R. Murray lbw.

b. R. McKenzie ......................14 T. Cashin c. G. Marshall b. P. Cashman ........................26 N. Hodges c. G. Marshall b. A. Cameron .......................... 8 B. Wright c. R. Good b. L. McFee............................22 B. Casbolt c. L. Papa b. L. McFee.............................. 0 J. Bourke lbw. b. P. Cashman .......................... 0 B. Maskell n.o............................32 D. Pellin c. P. Cashman b. A. Cameron .......................... 9 L. Wright n.o..............................13 Extras ........................................25 Total......................................7/149 Bowling: M. Haringsma 0/14, R. McKenzie 1/34, P. Cashman 2/22, A. Cameron 2/37, L. Papa 0/8, L. McFee 2/16, D. Kenter 0/4, B. Johnston 0/10.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 57

Howzat!: Korumburra appeals against Inverloch’s Taberner after being trapped lbw by Katipearachchi.

Good wicket: the Cobras celebrate a wicket during their semi final match against Inverloch on the weekend.

• LDCA A GRADE DIVISION ONE

Workers after triple crown WONTHAGGI Workmen’s Cricket Club will be trying to claim its third Division One cricket title in a row when they meet Inverloch in the grand final this weekend.

The Workers won the right to contest the grand final when they disposed of town rivals Wonthaggi Miners in a one sided semi final match over the weekend.

After defeating both Miners (2009/2010) and Imperials (2010/2011) in previous grand finals this year Workers will be up against Inverloch, who

comfortably disposed of Korumburra.

In the first match Miners won the toss and batted before making just 74 in 44 overs. Openers Andrew Donohue and Kaine Smith were out cheaply and at 7/44 the game was firmly in Workers’grasp.

Cameron Thomas chipped in with the top score of 21 in a disappointing batting effort.

In reply Workers made 6/179 from 64 overs with openers Tim Hooper 31 and David Britt 40 posting 67 before Hooper lost his wicket. Ryan Thomas hit the top score of 46 for the Workers.

In the other semi final Inverloch was sent in after

Korumburra won the toss with early drizzle about on Saturday morning. Walter Taberner scored 37 before a nervous over which saw him trapped lbw by Katipearachchi.

Jason Smith 43 kept the runs flowing but at 6/134 the ‘Burra was pressing hard, some good bowling giving them the rewards.

Kit Rothier batted superbly down the order for Inverloch with the top score of 63 and important runs on the board, with Inverloch finishing the innings with 243.

Katipearachchi was again a standout for Korumburra with 5/76.

Korumburra batted day two and fancied their

chances in fine batting weather. But with both openers Rigby and Cook scoring ducks, the chances went quickly out the window.

Katipearachchi again stood up and his 31 kept ‘Burra in with a chance.

However when he was dismissed at the score of 5/59, Korumburra never recovered, being all out for 107.

WON WORKMENS d WON MINERS 1st innings Won Miners A. Donohue c. R. Thomas b. J. Sheerin ............................5 K. Smith c. J. Sheerin b. R. Thomas ..........................4 J. O’Reilly c. G. Bolding b. J. Sheerin .......................... 11 J. Andrighetto c. T. Hooper b. M. Thomas .........................8 P. Jordan c. J. Liddle

b. G. Britt ...............................3 M. Johnson r.o. (G. Bolding) .....6 C. Thomas lbw. b. R. Thomas ........................21 B. Foon b. M. Thomas ...............0 D. Foon c. R. Thomas b. G. Britt ...............................7 P. Burgess n.o. ............................0 R. Birkett c. D. Britt b. G. Britt ...............................4 Extras ........................................5 Total .........................................74 Bowling: R. Thomas 2/21, M. McCall 0/4, G. Britt 3/18, J. Sheerin 2/18, M. Thomas 2/8.

1st innings Won Workmens T. Hooper c. P. Jordan b. R. Birkett ..........................31 D. Britt b. M. Johnson..............40 R. Hassett c. C. Thomas b. A. Donohue ........................2 R. Thomas lbw. b. A. Donohue ......................46 G. Britt c. J. Armstrong (sub) b. M. Johnson .......................12 M. Thomas c. C. Thomas b. M. Johnson .........................9 G. Bolding n.o. .........................13 C. Harvey n.o. ..........................12 Extras ......................................14

Total ....................................6/179 Bowling: B. Foon 0/27, D. Foon 0/8, M. Johnson 3/59, P. Burgess 0/26, J. Andrighetto 0/8, A. Donohue 2/20, R. Birkett 1/20.

INVERLOCH d KORUMBURRA 1st innings Inverloch W. Taberner lbw. b. A. Katipearachchi .............37 T. Thornby c. U. Weerasinghe b. D. Scott ............................15 J. Smith c. K. Dorman b. U. Weerasinghe ................43 D. Clark b. A. Katipearachchi ..10 D. Ruffin c. J. Oxlee b. U. Weerasinghe ..................9 B. Debono c. K. Rigby b. I. Osman ...........................17 W. Rankin c. U. Weerasinghe b. K. Rigby .............................0 K. Rothier c. K. Dorman b. A. Katipearachchi .............63 N. Cant lbw. b. A. Katipearachchi ...............3 R. Thomas c. U. Weerasinghe b. A. Katipearachchi .............14 L. Rankin n.o..............................2 Extras ......................................30

Total .......................................243 Bowling: A. Katipearachchi 5/76, D. Wyhoon 0/24, U. Weerasinghe 2/61, D. Scott 2/47, M. Olden 0/9, I. Osman 1/10.

1st innings Korumburra K. Rigby c. B. Debono b. K. Rothier...........................0 J. Cook b. R. Thomas .................0 A. Katipearachchi b. K. Rothier.........................31 I. Osman c. W. Taberner b. R. Thomas ..........................6 U. Weerasinghe b. K. Rothier .. 11 C. Smith c. W. Rankin b. L. Rankin..........................13 D. Wyhoon b. L. Rankin ............5 M. Olden b. K. Rothier ..............6 K. Dorman lbw. b. L. Rankin............................4 D. Scott c. N. Cant b. K. Rothier.........................16 J. Oxlee n.o. ...............................4 Extras ...................................... 11

Total .......................................107 Bowling: R. Thomas 2/15, K. Rothier 5/46, L. Rankin 3/18, D. Clark 0/22.

• LDCA A GRADE DIVISION TWO

Phillip Island looking strong PHILLIP Island thrashed Koonwarra Leongatha RSL in the semi final of LDCA Division Two cricket on the weekend, to see them as firm favourites to take the title.

The Island will be up against Kilcunda-Bass

which also recorded a relatively comfortable win over MDU. Phillip Island won the toss and batted, with 208 being a respectable score.

Top scorer was John Emery with a fine 97 with five 4s and two 6s.

In reply Koonwarra RSL was shamefully dismissed for 32 in 24 overs and an early adjournment

for drinks. Kirton took 4/15 in the plunder.

In the other match a fine century to KilcundaBass’s opener Steven Oates saw his team score 8/254, batting first on Fish Creek turf.

In reply MDU was soon under pressure, with both openers Cam and Mark LePage back in the sheds with the score at just

four. When the in form Craig Hoober was out for just one and Prosser for a duck, MDU had slumped to 4/9 and it was all over from there on.

Top scorer was Steve Arnup with 35 in the total of just 121.

PHILLIP ISLAND d KOONWARRA-RSL 1st innings Phillip Island S. Murdoch lbw. b. T. Gordon .........................12

Quick hands: Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL wicket keeper Jack Hughes was keeping his eye on the ball against Phillip Island.

E. Richards c. J. Hughes b. J. Kennedy..........................0 T. Hornsby c. N. Arnup b. J. Kennedy........................24 A. Manteit c. N. Arnup b. T. Gordon ...........................3 J. Emery c. J. Hughes b. T. Gordon .........................97 L. Cleeland c. D. O’Connor b. B. Moscript ......................12 C. Wilson c. S. Moore b. B. Thomas ..........................3 M. Price c. T. Gordon b. B. Thomas ..........................2 S. Boyack b. T. Gordon ............28 A. Matthews n.o. ........................6 S. Kirton b. T. Gordon................3 Extras ......................................18 Total .......................................208 Bowling: T. Gordon 5/51, J. Kennedy 2/40, B. Moscript 1/14, N. Arnup 0/30, S. Sperling 0/32, B. Thomas 2/32.

1st innings Koonwarra-RSL Extras ........................................2 Total .........................................32 Bowling: S. Boyack 1/1, A. Matthews 2/7, S. Murdoch 0/4, S. Kirton 4/15, C. Wilson 2/3.

KILCUNDA-BASS d MDU 1st innings Kilcunda-Bass S. Oates c. S. McRae..............127 P. Mohascy c. b. S. McRae ..........................27 J. Dakin lbw. ............................44 T. Miller c...................................1 A. Larcombe lbw. .....................24 A. Shackelford c.........................6 C. Hart n.o. .................................3 C. Davidson c. ............................2 S. Tapscott r.o. ............................0 D. Pipicelli n.o. ..........................5 Extras ......................................15 Total .............................8/254 (cc) Bowling: T. Harris 3/59, M. Cantwell 3/63, M. Le Page 0/14, M. Patching 0/32, S. Arnup 0/54, C. Le Page 0/4, S. McRae 1/15.

1st innings MDU C. Le Page c. S. Tapscott b. A. Shackelford....................3 M. Le Page c. A. Larcombe b. D. Pipicelli .........................2 C. Hoober c. T. Miller b. D. Pipicelli .........................1 M. Olden stp. S. Oates b. J. Mahood.........................19 W. Prosser lbw. b. D. Pipicelli .........................0 R. Olden b. S. Tapscott ............14 S. Arnup n.o. ............................35

M. Cantwell c. A. Shackelford b. J. Mahood...........................6 S. McRae c. J. Dakin b. J. Mahood...........................9 T. Harris lbw. b. J. Mahood...........................4 M. Patching b. C. Davidson .......8 Extras ......................................20 Total .......................................121 Bowling: D. Pipicelli 3/1, A. Shackelford 1/14, C. Davidson 1/22, J. Mahood 4/23, J. Dakin 0/19, S. Tapscott 1/25.

Quick arm: a streamlined Sam Sperling puts one down the pitch against Phillip Island.

PAGE 58 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Olympic swim hope

NEWHAVEN College student Charlee Gough of Bass will swim tonight Tuesday, March 20 in Adelaide for a place on the Australian team to compete at the 2012 London Olympics.

Formerly of Inverloch Charlee, 16 and brother

Bowen, 13 are the consummate Aussie quiet achievers, but mention swimming and their eyes light up.

This sister and brother swimming duo is striving to go as far as they can with their swimming, and Charlee will compete tonight against the nation’s best in the 50 metre butterfly Charlee has a big task ahead of her, matching it

Oh brother: when it comes to swimming, Newhaven College student Bowen Gough of Bass is aiming high and hoping for a top 10 ranking in the Australian Age championships in Brisbane at Easter.

with some hot competition in 15-year-old Queenslander Yolande Kukla, winner of the 50 metre fly at this year’s national championships and beating 50m butterfly world champion Marieke Guehrer and swimming faster than Libby Trickett.

Talking to The Star last Friday Charlee was not at all phased by the big names she will come up against, she is just out to do her best and hopefully better her time.

Charlee said her time for the 50 metre fly is 27 secsonds and to win she would have to be doing a 29 second race.

“I always do better at big meets and if I did make the Australian team it would be amazing,” she said.

Charlee and Bowen have been members of the South Gippsland Bass Swimming Club. They for six years and before that the Wonthaggi Swim Club and train at Wonthaggi four sessions a week and at Leongatha SPLASH pool one night a week, and that means a lot of travelling with mum Michelle.

Both competed in the State swimming championships at the end of January where Charlee took out her first major award with Sil-

ver in the 50 metre fly and Bowen a Bronze for the same event and he finalled in every other event.

Not forgetting this talented swimming duo helped their Sambal House to a win at the recent Newhaven College House Swimming Sports.

They attend school at Newhaven College and both admit with all the training and time spent on the road it is a bit of a juggling act trying to fit in homework and extra activities.

Charlee’s other passion lies in the performing arts.

She dances, plays alto sax in the college band and is involved in the school’s next musical production, “Seussical”.

As for Bowen, next to swimming football doesn’t come a close second but is an equal. He played with Dalyston but will play for Kilcunda-Bass this year as it is closer to home.

“I love football as much as swimming,” Bowen said.

“It would be great to have an all year round pool on Phillip Island,” said Charlee.

“It would mean a lot less travelling for us and would be great for all the Phillip Island swimmers and others

Ready, set, go: Charlee Gough, a student at Phillip Island’s Newhaven College is in Adelaide and will compete tonight, Tuesday, March 20 against the best in Australia in the 50 metre fly for a place on the Australian team for the London Olympics. in the area,” she said.

At the moment Charlee works through her lunchtime at school just to keep up her homework and to fit in her training.

Bowen is focused on the Age National Championships in Brisbane this Easter where he and his sister will compete against the best in the country, and Bowen is quietly confident of some good results.

He is hoping for some good results and would like to finish in the top 10 in Australia after the Nationals.

With an eye to the future Bowen said he would like to try out for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in two years and the Rio Olympics in 2016.

“I really just want to go as far as I can with my swimming,” he said.

He will compete in four events including the 100 metre freestyle, butterfly and backstroke and the 200 metre backstroke.

Charlee will concentrate on her key event, the 100metre butterfly.

Charlee headed up to Adelaide on Monday with her mother and Bowen will be cheering for his sister at home with dad Owen Gough.

School pool too cool THE only swimming pool on Phillip Island that can be accessed to some extent by the public is the Cowes Primary School’s 25 metre, solar heated pool.

Pool time: Phillip Island Swim Club president Don Turner is thrilled his club won the South Gippsland Swimming Association Aggregate Shield this year, and all this without an all-year-round pool facility on the Island.

Assistant principal Rodney McKenzie is pleased to have a pool at the school he said is well used by the 470 students for swim programs and school swimming carnivals. Mr McKenzie would however like to see a new indoor heated pool facility built on Phillip Island for the whole community for use all year round.

Apart from the school swim programs being run

Island pool push Continued from page 6.

“This summer we also introduced beginners sessions for seven, eight and nine-year-old children and a session for adults.

“Out of the 30 or so adults participating, some people swim to improve fitness and enjoy having the professional coaching, others for health and lifestyle and others for summer training for the open water competitions.”

Fundraising efforts for a pool on Phillip Island have been going on for an epic 20 years and residents are frustrated they still have no public pool and may not see any action on that front for at least another 10 years.

It seems council is putting all the money into a state-of-the-art pool complex in Wonthaggi, the town that

already has an indoor heated pool, albeit a 32-year-old facility.

Council has committed some $12.36 million for a new aquatic facility redevelopment, but no funds have been promised for a Phillip Island facility, even though the community has been working hard fundraising for two decades.

“I can’t see the Bass Coast Shire funding a facility parallel to anything Wonthaggi maybe getting,” Mr Turner said.

He is also acting president of the Phillip Island Aquatic Centre Fund Inc and said the group is in discussions with council monthly. They have submitted an expression of interest in council’s newly acquired recreation land in Cowes.

“The shire has purchased land in

Cowes, about the same size as the Wonthaggi sporting complex, that would cater for all sporting facilities for the island for this century,” Mr Turner said.

“If we can put a strong case forward, we may be able to get the shire to look at an extra rates levy to fund the pool.”

Meanwhile Mr Turner said the group is looking at other sources of funding including State and Federal funding and from the private sector.

“We are in the process of putting together a business plan and estimate we would need $10 million to see a 25 metre indoor pool established on the island,” he said.

“We would like to see a pool on Phillip Island in the next 10 years, if not sooner.”

in terms one and four, Mr McKenzie said the pool is used by the Phillip Island Swimming Club four nights a week, from Melbourne Cup weekend through until the end of term one.

“The swimming club used to use the pool only on Friday nights and had two training sessions at the Wonthaggi pool, but the club has increased the number of days this year to meet the increased demand; numbers at the club have increased,” he said.

“On Wednesday nights the swim club offers a community adult swimming session.”

The YMCA also accesses the school pool during the Christmas school holidays for its summer swim program.

Mr McKenzie said parents would much rather utilise a local facility on Phillip Island than have to drive to Wonthaggi for year round swimming.

He pointed out the costs in time and money to the parents transporting children to training sessions in Wonthaggi. Mr McKenzie is just one of many who would love to see a heated pool established on Phillip Island for all year round use.

“From a school perspective it is one of our priorities to offer a swimming program to all our students. We live on an island and it is just so important our children learn to swim,” he said.

Mr McKenzie said there

is also a “huge retirement population on Phillip Island and there should be a heated pool facility for use for the elderly in the community”.

Apart from a small amount of Bass Coast Shire funding for the YMCA summer swimming program at the pool, the Cowes Primary foots the bill for all maintenance costs.

Talking to The Star on Friday, Newhaven College principal Gea Lovell said: “There is an incredible need for a pool on Phillip Island, and the sooner the better.”

“I would just love to see a 50 metre pool built and without access to any facility on the island our children are definitely being held back,” Ms Lovell said.

Ms Lovell was head of campus at Wesley College in Melbourne before taking on the position of principal at Newhaven College and in her time at Wesley she was involved in the prestigious Associated Public Schools (APS) sports. She said our local students are every bit as talented as the best performers at the APS swimming sports.

“Our local students have twice the battle and have to work a lot harder for success without a pool on their doorstep,” Ms Lovell said.

“Our students display courage. They are made of tough stuff and their parents show incredible commitment, but they need our support.

“We had 17 primary school students make it through to the zone swimming championships and one made it through to the state finals.

“Most of the students from Phillip Island are forced to travel to Wonthaggi’s 25 metre indoor heated pool.

They do not have access to a 50 metre pool. They are really up against it.”

The nearest 50 metre pool is an outdoor facility in Korumburra and Ms Lovell said that is just too far away to bus students.

Newhaven students, brother and sister Bowen Gough, 13, and Charlee Gough, 16, from Bass are two dedicated swimmers who would love to see a pool on Phillip Island.

Tonight, Tuesday, March 20 Charlee will compete in the Olympic trials in the 50 metre butterfly in Adelaide for a place in the Australian team to go to London.

At Easter, both Charlee and Bowen will compete in the Age National championships in Brisbane against the very best swimmers in Australia.

Charlee and Bowen travel to Wonthaggi and Leongatha pools five sessions a week and that means a lot of travelling in the car with mum, Michelle.

These two competitive swimmers see that a pool on Phillip Island would definitely benefit all the students in the area and would mean less time spent on the road.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012 - PAGE 59

Thomas cycles to Aussie gold

By Tony Giles THOMAS McFarlane reached the pinnacle of his short cycling career so far, taking out gold

in the five kilometre scratch race title over 20 laps at Northcote velodrome on Saturday night.

Thomas was compet-

Gold medal race: Thomas McFarlane salutes the crowd after his win in the U15 Men’s Scratch Race on Saturday night. The scratch races were the final events for the 2012 Track Nationals. Photo courtesy Stephen Harman.

ing in the Australian Junior Track Titles.

The race saw two riders engaged from each state of Australia. With five laps to go in the race, an ACT rider took off. He was followed by rider to beat Cameron Scott from New South Wales who already had two gold medals to his credit, both ahead of Thomas McFarlane.

Scott decided to go out after the ACT rider while McFarlane too decided to take off and keep Scott within his sights. Early on in the chase McFarlane was having trouble bridging a 10-15 metre gap between him and Scott.

With the ACT rider tiring and dropping off, the race was between McFarlane and Scott. As the two approached the bell lap, McFarlane drew level. As the bell rang McFarlane hit the lead and was never headed from then on.

Tactics play a big part in this race and McFarlane thought he had a chance in the race.

And as Thomas told The Star later, “I didn’t want Cameron to win everything.”

Having been pipped for

gold twice already by Scott, McFarlane was out to make a real scrap of the race.

And at the exciting time of the race Thomas’s coach Tony Smith was heard to say in the stands, “I think Thomas has got him”.

Thomas comes from a good cycling background with his father David having won a number of titles and is an accomplished rider in his own right.

David paid tribute to coach Tony Smith for all his work.

“I had someone comment to me at the titles on the weekend how do you get such good riders from the country. I think it shows how good our coaching is and that it is certainly possible to train good riders,” David said.

Early on in the titles Thomas finished with silver in the final of the sprint against Cameron Scott.

Scott has set an Australian record in qualifiying for this event.

In the 500 metre time trial on Thursday Thomas again finished with silver, Scott claiming gold. Scott had to set an Australian record to beat McFarlane.

McFarlane was just one

Three medals: Thomas McFarlane displays the three medals he received at the nationals. tenth of a second off what was the then Australian record.

Thomas finished just out of a bronze medal in Friday’s 2km pursuit. The second, third and fourth riders

were all within .4 of a second in time. Cameron Scott won the pursuit gold medal by some five seconds.

After some time for a rest Thomas will prepare for the footy season and

will also compete in the Leongatha Cycling Club’s road race season.

Some thought will also go into whether to compete in the road race nationals in Canberra later this year.

Road season sets off

Tight start: the A Grade field rounding a corner in the criterium.

ROAD season started in a different fashion to past years with a criterium race on a new venue at Bena.

This venue is part of the old highway past the former Bena school and has given the club a venue where there are few other road users.

The junior race started just after 1.30pm with a good field including a visiting rider, James Blyth, from the Warragul club. Also making a start was new rider Austin Timmins who managed to line up a club bike for the outing. The riders were given a 20 minute time plus two further laps.

After a few quiet opening laps, James Blyth and Will Lumby upped the pace and moved away from the rest of the field. Josh Chiavaroli tried to go with them but as the time ticked by the gap opened further.

As he often showed over track season Matt Minogue worked away at a

steady pace and eventually left Oscar Perri, Austin and Alex Bennett. At two laps to go it was Will and James out front to decide the top podium places but Matt had closed in on Josh. The final dash to the line saw James claim the win ahead of Will and the steady work from Matt saw him get past Josh for third place. They were followed in

by Oscar, Austin and Alex.

The senior field was split into an A grade field and a B grade field. A grade raced for 45min plus three laps.

The circuit featured climbing past the old Bena school each lap in a lap time of between 2.5 and 3.00 minutes.

What initially was a small hill start became more substantial after 15 odd times, especially when each lap involves slowing for a 180 degree turn and then accelerating again.

The A grade field stayed together for the journey despite some attacks from the in- form Ronald Purtle. In the bell lap Ronald made the winning

move at the far end turn and came home a clear winner. Jesse Boyd just held on by half a wheel for second ahead of a fast finishing Steve Allen followed by Tony Clark and Jason Scott.

The B grade field raced over 35 minutes plus three laps. Other than losing one starter the balance of the field rotated turns over the time allowance.

In the last lap, Neil White made a charge up the hill from the turn and quickly opened a gap. However, Neil found the head was willing whilst the body was not. At the line it was an easy win to Steve Wilson. The next home was David Barker and then David Bennett getting past a slowing Neil White claiming third place.

Next week racing starts at the Pound Creek fire station with entry from 1pm for a start at 2pm. Club members also have a club meeting at Rob Aitkens on Tuesday night.

Celebrating 21 years of creating champions on the field, and safer drivers on the road.

PAGE 60 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 20, 2012