The Great Southern Star - March 6, 2012 by The Great Southern Star

Huge Labour Day long weekend in South Gippsland - The Scene liftout inside.

TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2012 - $1.20

Ready for fun TIM Wolswinkel and Rowan Baudinette took advantage of the large size chess set at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum at Korumburra on Sunday, during the Scouts Family Fun Day. The pair was among many to enjoy abseiling, face-painting and discovering the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. Turn to page 6 to find out more.

Land ahoy Council celebrates rural strategy approval

Party time: South Gippsland Shire Council CEO Tim Tamlin, mayor Cr Warren Raabe and director of development services Phil Stone welcome the finalisation of the rural strategy.

By Brad Lester SOUTH Gippsland is expected to grow after the State Government last week approved a long-awaited strategy governing development in rural areas. Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy passed the South Gippsland Rural Land Use Strategy 2011, ending 11 years of uncertainty. More hobby farms and greater tourism opportunities could result from the strategy, diversifying the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy with more newcomers. However the strategy has not impressed everyone, with land-holders with

properties not fitting the guidelines missing out on the opportunity to build. Simply, the new strategy permits: lots up to 4.1ha to be built on; lots between 4.1ha and 40ha to be built on only when an agricultural use warrants a house; lots over 40ha to be built on without a permit; and a minimum subdivision size of 80ha. About 2000 lots under 4.1ha can be built on without proof that a house is needed to farm. The amendment also rezones 5100 hectares of land from the Farming Zone to the new Rural Activity Zone around Loch, Korumburra, Yanakie, Koonwarra, Foster and Mirboo North, allowing for tourism-related businesses. Continued on page 4.

Later Star

THE Star will be out one day later next week, Wednesday morning, March 14, due to the Labour Day long weekend. The office will be closed on Monday, March 12 and will re-open on Tuesday, March 13. Classified advertisements and sports news can still be emailed or brought into the office any time until noon on the Tuesday.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, y March 6, 2012

Food and wine a winner FINE FI NE wine w win inee and in and delicate deli de lica li cate ca te dining ddin inin in ingg was in was on the the Inverloch menu me nu at at th thee In Inve verl rloc ochh Food Food and and Wine W Win inee Festival Fest Fe stiv ival al Saturday. on S atur at turdday day. The rain didn’t dampen the spirits of wine lovers as they taste tested the best of what the local wineries and producers had to offer. It wasn’t just about the wine with cheese, preserves, breads and lots of other yummy produce available to taste test and buy, along with of course, something to grab for lunch. Cooking demonstrations and interviews with local wine-makers gave the crowd a little extra knowledge when it comes to fine dining and matching a wine to the dish. Most wine lovers left Inverloch that day with more knowledge about wine-making and a bottle or two of the best the region has to offer. • More photos in next week’s Star.

Grilled: local wine-makers Folkert Janssen and Dean Roberts took a session on the couch and answered questions about local wines and growing in Bass Coast and South Gippsland.

Face painting: Margret Nelson was using face paint to change Hannah Collins into a dog at the Inverloch Food and Wine Festival.

Fine dining: Brendan McCurdy and Teyghan Stadelbaure from Archie’s on the Creek restaurant were at the Inverloch Food and Wine Festival.

Ladies day: Louise Eadon and Rosemary Cruise were enjoying the Inverloch Food and Wine Festival despite the wet weather. Popular cheese: Berry’s Creek Gourmet Cheese was a must try at the Inverloch Food and Wine Festival, and it was delicious, according to Laura Rowe.

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Rotary: Marilyn Warren, Terry Grace (secretary) and Ken Fisher (president) from the Rotary Club of Inverloch were enjoying the Food and Wine Festival on Saturday.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 3

Miners chase gas By Simone Short A MINING company has applied for an exploration licence from Wonthaggi to Waratah Bay.

The company behind the application, Leichhardt Resources Pty Ltd, has licences to mine for coal seam gases across Australia. The proposed area stretches 519 square kilometres, spanning inland to Buffalo, however it will be slightly less in reality, as the area includes Crown land. According to the Department of Primary Industries, Leichhardt Resources Pty Ltd lodged the application on February 22 and is currently under review. Bass Coast Shire Council director of planning and environment, Hannah Duncan-Jones, said the council had been notified about the application and said the matter would be of interest to the community. “Obviously farmers are concerned about being able to utilise their land for agricultural purposes and anything could have an impact on them, so they should certainly make themselves aware and participate in the process,” she said, but emphasised community members should not panic over the issue for the moment. “It’s important to stress it is only early days and it’s only an exploration licence application.” If the DPI chooses to approve the licence, it would be advertised in both

state-wide and local newspapers, giving people 21 days to respond. Ms Duncan-Jones predicted considerable concern in the community would be expressed through submissions. “People need to make sure they’re keeping track of the newspapers and the council website for news of when the application is notified and to put in a submission,” she said. “As with all of these things, it’s strongly encouraged that people put in submissions that are based on their own circumstances and not just using form ones.” Coal seam gas opponent Neil Rankine said he believed exploration and mining should not be happening at all. “As soon as the licence is advertised, people need to write a community objection to the Minister for Resources and Energy within that time-frame, and it also has to come under a list of reasons they’ll accept,” he said. Mr Rankine said one critical thing farmers can do is to join the coal seam gas forum email list to receive updates on any action taken. “We’ll also really be encouraging people to speak to councillors from both the South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires and try to get them on board to move a motion to ideally outright oppose this kind of exploration into South Gippsland or Bass Coast,” he said. Ms Duncan-Jones said exploration licences were nothing new to the

region, and reiterated the community to not panic. “As we found out when we had the forum in November, the whole of Bass Coast is already essentially covered with exploration licences so this was just an area that wasn’t currently covered,” she said. “It’s not about panic; it’s about being aware, keeping up-to-date and it is only an exploration licence. “If there was a mining licence, there would be a much more involved process. That would involve the application for the mining licence and works approval from the EPA. “It would involve a planning permit and more than likely an environmental effects statement, so there would be considerable public processes if there was any resource found and then to proceed to an actual mining licence.” Should the licence be approved, Ms Duncan-Jones said community members should make their own judgement on whether or not to be concerned. “People need to make their own judgement about that, and I guess the impact is going to be about individual people, and how it impacts on them and make assessments themselves,” she said. Leichhardt Resources Pty Ltd did not respond to questions from The Star before going to print. Anyone wanting to stay updated about coal seam gas in the region can do so by emailing csg.forum@capepaterson.asn.au.

Missing woman found safe By Simone Short A MISSING elderly woman was returned to her family after a 10 hour search on Sunday.

Eighty-five-year-old Lynne Van Nooten, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, was reported missing by her husband after he noticed she was missing from their home in Clancy’s Road in Korumburra around 4.45am. Having disappeared wearing only a nightgown, there were grave concerns for her welfare, especially with the poor weather. Almost 40 searchers, including local police, search and rescue squad, police

air wing, special solos (dirt bikes), local farmers and SES volunteers conducted a thorough search of the surrounding area. Leongatha SES unit controller Anthony Lindhart said 18 SES members were there all day; eight from Leongatha supported by members from Inverloch and Wonthaggi. “We searched from virtually 7am until she was found around 3pm,” he said. “We have very good co-operation with the police search and rescue unit, especially the sergeant in charge, who has some specific experience with elderly people suffering from Alzheimer’s.” The woman was located

by a local farmer on a rural property around one kilometre from where she went missing. The farmer had joined the search after hearing about the incident over the radio and seeing the police helicopter hovering around overhead. She was found with only minor cuts and abrasions, and suffering hypothermia.

Dancing queens: Wendy Sellings, Lil Roughead and Lyn Van Boven immersed themselves in the ABBA spirit of the Saturday Night Live musical extravaganza held by the Rotary Club of Leongatha on Saturday night. Turn to page 58 for the full story and more photos.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Council celebrates rural strategy approval

Continued from page 1. The minister made some minor changes relating to properties between 4.1 and 40 hectares and properties primarily covered with native vegetation to ensure consistency with state-wide policy and the Farming Zone provisions. Essentially, the amendment is consistent with council’s adopted strategy. The strategy will come into effect when the notice of its approval

is published in the Victorian Government Gazette, expected this Thursday (March 8). Council officers are celebrating and mayor Cr Warren Raabe, who stood for election largely on the issue, was delighted by the news. “It has taken us a long time to get to this point. The fact it is finished is what pleases me the most,” he said. “People now have a simple set of rules as to what they can do with

their land.” Completing the strategy was a priority project for council and Cr Raabe believed this year’s council elections would be the first in four elections where the strategy would not be a major election issue. Council’s director of development services Phil Stone, said the strategy permitted growth while protecting the rural ambience of South Gippsland. He labelled the minister’s

decision “exceptional”. “We are very happy with the minister’s comments. It’s been great decisiveness,” he said. Mr Guy said: “Council has been involved in the preparation of the strategy for six years and has engaged with the community, agricultural industry groups, rural landowners and the farming community.” Deputy Premier and Gippsland South MLA Peter Ryan congratulated council on undertaking the rigorous process to find a suitable outcome. “The entire community now has a clear picture of the future of the municipality’s rural areas, providing direction to support growth and change for dwellings and tourist activities in identified areas,” he said. “This is a great outcome for the community and one that has been long awaited.” While the strategy was finished, Cr Raabe conceded “quite a few people would be displeased by the outcome and we recognise that, but they now have certainty too”. “I think the strategy is fair and fits in with the state scheme. There will still be people caught out and I don’t know what we can do to help them. That is something they need to take up with the State Government,” he said. Cr Raabe did not believe the strategy would result in an immediate influx of applications for hobby farms, but said the strategy would open more opportunities for rural living in the shire. “That would bring money into the district, which flows on. Every time you get a family moving into the area, they are spending money in the area and every time we discourage a family from coming into the area, the community is missing out on that

cash flow generation,” he said. “The council feels there is a balance now between the protection of major agricultural enterprises and the lifestyle opportunities this strategy allows.” The mayor is not anticipating an influx of applications for planning permits, despite some people applying under the previous rules and then appealing council’s decision to the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). About half of the appeals were successful. Cr Raabe said the strategy granted South Gippsland concessions under state planning provisions that recognised “the historical land settlement of South Gippsland”. “When people came to South Gippsland, lots were settled in small parcels and because of that, we have this legacy of small lots across the shire,” he said. Council was faced with the dilemma of juggling how to give people access “to their perceived rights to live on a piece of land that they have purchased”, Cr Raabe said, while protecting farmland. Other parts of Victoria were settled on the basis of larger land allotments. A former council approved a rural strategy for public comment recommending no houses be built on lots smaller than 250 acres. “That would have meant no more houses in South Gippsland in the Farming Zone which was 97 per cent of the shire and to me, that would have stifled development,” Cr Raabe said. With the strategy behind them, council planners will now turn to the Housing and Settlement Strategy that will determine which towns will grow and which will not, due to the lack of such services as sewerage.

Jen steers singers in new direction THE South Gippsland Singers are singing loud and proud and going strong under new musical director Jen Monk. After celebrating their 30 year anniversary last year and having long time musical director Larry Hills leave the group, Jen stepped up to the position and has being doing a stellar job. “We’re getting into all types of music now,” group president Joan Harris said. “Jen is taking us in a new direction and is making the group more appealing to younger singers.” Jen is also the Leongatha Primary School music teacher and teaches singing privately. She has a history as a professional

singer with the Australian Navy Band and once sang the national anthem at the MCG for the AFL. “I’m trying to get some more young people involved in the group,” Jen said. “We’re branching out and doing some different songs to what we’ve been doing over the past few years.” The group is going strong, with about 25 members, but could always use more. If you wish to come along and have a sing with the group or maybe just a listen to see what it’s all about, get down to the Dakers Centre in Leongatha on Wednesdays from 7.30pm. All you need is a love for singing. Those interested in joining can also call Lyn on 5662 3376 or Joan on 5674 3401.

Leading lady: Jen Monk directs the South Gippsland Singers at a recent rehearsal.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 5

New talent eyes stage AUDITIONS have started for the upcoming Leongatha Lyric Theatre production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Counting down: excited about Leongatha Lyric Theatre’s production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe are vocal director Cheryl Connor, musical director Colin Chandler and director Scott Miller.

With over 80 hopefuls putting their hands up for auditions, a large amount of new talent will be seen in the production, according to director Scott Miller. “The interest has been fantastic,” he said. “And so far we’ve seen so much talent here

already, which is really good for us.” A plethora of new faces to the theatre have been seen at rehearsals. “Lots of kids have stepped up to the challenge as well, which is fantastic to see,” Mr Miller said. This is the first time Mr Miller has taken on the role of director after being in the theatre for more than 30 years. “I always sit back and think of things that I would like to change when I’m involved in productions. Now I can, but it

Business association wary of developer By Jacob de Kunder THE Korumburra Business Association is concerned the sale of the former Shire of Korumburra complex is already underway, despite South Gippsland Shire Council now calling for public comment regarding the rezone. People can now have a say over the future of the Planning Scheme Amendment C71 which will rezone the Korumburra library, gallery and meeting rooms site from the current Public Use Zoning to Business 1 Zone. Paul Stampton, council’s manager strategic planning and development, said the rezoning would

not affect the site’s current use but would provide council with future development opportunities for the site. “The rezoning is a continuation of the work we’ve undertaken with the State Government to provide a location suitable for a large retailer to ensure that Korumburra’s central business district remains strong and active,” he said. KBA president David Amor was worried about what the rezoning might mean for the site. “From a KBA perspective, it sounds like it’s already half sold and I’m starting to think that way,” he said. “Why is there any reason to do that, apart from the money that has been put up by the Rossi Group to buy the facility?”

Mr Amor said that local developer the Rossi Group had ‘way too many fingers in the pie’ when it comes to development in Korumburra. The Rossi Group also owns the former saleyards site. Also currently on exhibition along with C71 is amendment C70, which outlines the framework plan for Korumburra, and C66 which looks to rezone parts of western Korumburra for residential development. All three amendments can be viewed at the Korumburra library, council offices, www. southgippsland.vic.gov.au, and at www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/ publicinspection. “This is an exciting period for Korumburra and these amend-

ments will provide attractive opportunities for further investment in the town,” Mr Stampton said. Public submissions to the C71 amendment must be received at council by Monday, April 2 and addressed to South Gippsland Shire Council, Attn: Fiona Mottram, Private Bag 4, Leongatha 3953. Enquiries regarding the amendment should be directed to Fiona Mottram on 5662 9837 or fionam@southgippsland.vic.gov. au Mr Amor said a community meeting with council staff would be held at the Korumburra Community Meeting Rooms on March 20 at 7pm to discuss the amendment and planning future in Korumburra.

‘Grave concerns’ over ambo system By Brad Lester BASS MLA Ken Smith holds “grave concerns” about an ambulance dispatch system now used by Ambulance Victoria.

The Star reported on February 21 that Leongatha was being left without an ambulance up to five times a week, as the system sent local ambulances to emergencies as far as the Latrobe Valley and Warragul. Often the ambulance

would be halfway to the location and sent back to Leongatha. Mr Smith said there had been “some hiccups in this service”. “I don’t see this as being a good solution. I hold grave concerns about it. I know Ambulance Victoria is doing something to overcome the problem. Local knowledge is good knowledge,” he said. “I don’t want this issue to deter people from calling 000 as it is still the best option in an emergency. Our ambulance people down here do a

fantastic job and have been for some time. “The Coalition Government has employed and will continue to employ more paramedics to make the service better for the people of my community.” Deputy Premier and Gippsland South MLA Peter Ryan said he had spoken to Health Minister David Davis about the Star article. “He has indicated to me Ambulance Victoria sends the closest appropriate ambulance to people who have called

for help using GPS data and state-wide common dispatch procedures,” he said. “The state-wide system allows the closest ambulance to be dispatched to those in need, and supports coverage of all areas across the state. “Each ambulance is fitted with global positioning systems, which show operators exactly where each vehicle is and a radio system that operates throughout the state. “Consequently the closest and most ap-

propriate ambulance resource can be dispatched immediately. “If an ambulance is dispatched to a patient and a closer ambulance resource becomes available, the closer ambulance is sent instead; the other ambulance is then cleared from the case and made available for another patient. “Ambulance Victoria routinely monitors the location of ambulances and will relocate them if required to provide all areas with a timely response.”

is very scary,” he said. “I can’t change the story line because it’s so well known, but definitely expect some surprises.” Cheryl Connor is taking on the role of vocal director while Colin Chandler is musical di-

rector. They are both familiar faces around the Leongatha Lyric Theatre community. The show will open on Friday, July 13 and run through until July 28 with rehearsals set to start with in the next few weeks.

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

Fun in the sun IT was all happening at Coal Creek at Korumburra on Sunday, when the Scouts’ free Family Fun Day was held. There was fun for everyone, from paper planes through to fire-fighting training, as well as the classics such as a jump-

ing castle and face-painting. Only the brave tackled the abseiling wall while those with good aim tried their hand at the sling shot. The sun shone down on the park throughout the day, making it a great family event. • More photos in next week’s Star.

Local act: South Gippsland four piece band Beggs to Differ were a popular act at the Boolarra Folk Festival. They were John and Diane Rees, Phil Beggs and Terry Lay.

Departure time: Mitch and Brodie Sawyers were impressed by how far their paper planes flew.

Folk brave festival rain WET weather didn’t stop the music at the Boolarra Folk Festival on Saturday. Little fire-fighter: Remy Ferguson loved having a go on the fire hose with help from the CFA’s Ed Browning.

Sling shot: Vince Holt helped young Liam Smart set up a good shot with the sling shot.

Brave boy: Jasper Medley was deep in concentration on his way down the abseiling wall.

PASSENGERS SAFELY OFF

Music fans braved the rain and enjoyed a range of great acts including some local favourites such as the Strzelecki String Busters and Beggs to Differ. A thunderous rendition of percussion from the children of the Boolarra Primary School impressed many parents and music lovers. The hall was packed with people, so a decision was made to create a second stage at the Boolarra Bowls Club to accommodate the large crowd. Like always, the day was a great success. • More photos in next week’s Star.

Helping hands: Wendy Stewart, Eileen Black and Roz Carstairs were manning the merchandise desk on Saturday.

Local volunteers: Chris Littlejohn, Kelly Schilke and Dave O’Brien from Boolarra were on the barbecue stall at the Folk Festival.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 7

Children at risk GIPPSLAND children are among the most unsafe in Victoria, a State Government report has revealed. The Report of the Protecting Victoria’s Vulnerable Children Inquiry found that in Gippsland, 66 per 1000 children were reported to child protection services

in 2009-10. The state average was just over 30 per 1000 children. The most common types of alleged child abuse and neglect across Victoria were: psychological harm, physical harm and sexual harm. Also in Gippsland, around 10 children aged

up to 17 per 1000 were in out-of-home care. That was more than three times the proportionate rate for the eastern and southern metropolitan regions. Berry Street’s regional director in Gippsland, Trish McCluskey, said there were many reasons why Gippsland children were disproportionately repre-

Bass Coast stars shine BASS Coast hit the big screen last Friday night. The community celebrated the release of documentaries filmed by the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (AMCI) at the Wonthaggi Union Cinema. Two crews from ACMI filmed in Bass Coast in December and interviewed people to document their stories. The mini-documentaries will be part of ACMI’s archive collection and will be viewable on the ACMI website at www.acmi.net. au from April. The nine Bass Coast documentaries are: Life in the Waves: a story about mate-ship and surfing, featuring Sandy Ryan and Island Surfboards. • The Ripple and The Shed: Inverloch’s Clock Tower committee and Historical Society joined forces to create a maritime precinct along the town’s foreshore; • Following their Footsteps: Barrie Stewart and the dedicated members of the Kernot-Grantville

Following their Footsteps: Barrie Stewart from Kernot CFA stands in front of a still shot of himself and fellow CFA members, taken whilst filming a documentary about their CFA crew. CFA; • Settlement Soccer Club: breaking down boundaries with the international language of soccer; • The Corinella Jetty: Barbara Oates rallied the community to raise $25,000 to renovate and extend the iconic jetty; • Community Banking Bass Coast: hardware store owner, Terry Ashenden pulled together a committee to create a community bank in San Remo;

• Swell Mamas: dozens of mums across Inverloch get together every Friday morning to surf; • The Bass Valley Community Centre: the centre has now grown into an amazing community asset; and • DAK (David Alexander Kopelman): DAK doesn’t consider himself an artist: he just ‘dabbles and makes stuff’. Copies of the full set of documentaries can be purchased by registering with council.

Happy with hospitals By Sarah Vella LOCAL hospitals have received high marks according to a Victorian patient satisfaction report.

Findings from the annual report for July 2010 to June 2011 were released yesterday (Tuesday) by Minister for Health David Davis. In 2010-11, more than 28,000 survey responses were received from Victorian hospital patients. South Gippsland Hospital at Foster topped the local ratings, with a score of 87.4 out of 100. Gippsland Southern Health Service campuses in Korumburra and Leongatha received a rating of 82.4 out of 100, which awards the hospitals with a ‘very good’ rating. Bass Coast Regional Health received a score of 80.3 out of 100, which also just scrapes in to the ‘very good’ classification. The rating ‘very good’ was awarded to any hospital that received a score between 80 and 100, which makes it the highest rating attainable by any Victorian hospital.

Mr Davis said the survey allowed patients to highlight the positives about their local hospital, as well as point out any areas that require improvement. “This feedback assists hospitals to provide even better care by learning directly from patients on how to improve service quality” he said. “Areas in our hospitals with the highest level of satisfaction were the courtesy of nurses and doctors, being treated with respect, personal safety and the helpfulness of staff.

“Areas for improvement included quality of food, storage facilities, waiting room comfort, restfulness of the hospital and the temperature of meals.” Mr Davis said Victorian hospitals recorded significant increases in patient satisfaction in 2010-11, with patients consistently rating their hospitals between ‘good’ and ‘very good’. “Most importantly, no Victorian hospital showed a statistically significant decrease in patient satisfaction and no hospital received a ‘fair’ rating” he said.

sented in numbers coming into out-of-home care and being notified to the Department of Human Services. “However an obvious issue is the direct correlation between Gippsland’s recorded data for high rates of poverty and disadvantage, high levels of reported family violence, child sexual abuse and drug and alcohol abuse,” she said. “It is more complex than just disadvantage though, and in part relates to whether enough early intervention services are available to support vulnerable children and their families and in rural regions, as these services are often stretched to the limit and have long waiting lists. “Specialist services are also in high demand for families but it can be hard to attract and keep specialists in rural regions.” Ms McCluskey said the situation could be addressed by the adequate resourcing of community service organisations to support vulnerable families before issues escalate to violence and abuse, increased coordination of services, and better collaboration between government departments and family services. “However just the statistics alone are also good for the community to know, as most people want Gippsland’s children to live in safety and with hope for the future,” she said. “That can only happen if the community take some shared responsibility for the best interests of all children not just our own.” Across Victoria, infants are significantly over represented at 43.4 per 1000 aged under three years. Boys and girls are equally represented. “There are so many chil-

dren in out of home care in Gippsland because we need to ensure their safety and it has been determined by the Children’s Court, on advice from Child Protection that this is what needs to be happening to ensure their safety,” Ms McCluskey said. “Additionally some parents feel they can no longer cope and will relinquish their child if things become too stressful. Often family and friends can and will step in to help in these circumstances. The demographic problems of the region and historical issues related to high unemployment and entrenched poverty are contributing factors as mentioned above.” She hoped the report would result in significant additional early intervention services for Gippsland and funding to community service organisations to expand their support programs to children, high risk adolescents and struggling families. “DHS Child Protection continues to play a pivotal role in protecting children and they do an incredible job under unbelievably difficult services. They are often poorly understood and criticised for what is an immensely challenging job. They have my admiration and support for what they are doing to help children in Gippsland,” Ms McCluskey said. Berry Street has foster and respite carers in South Gippsland, and is always looking for more. To learn more, contact 5134 6673 or email Ms McCluskey on tmccluskey@berrystreet. org.au

Cyclist dies A TOORA man died during a group bike ride last Sunday. The 63-year-old man was riding with a group of cyclists from Walkerville to Tarwin Lower, and was about 11km from Tarwin Lower along Walkerville Road when he fell from his bike at around 10am. Other cyclists, including a medical practitioner, attended to the man and performed CPR until local ambulance crews arrived, but were unable to

revive him. The man died at the scene. Police from both Inverloch and Foster, and ambulance crews from Leongatha and Wonthaggi attended, as well as the Community First Response Unit from Tarwin Lower. Sergeant Glenn Parke said the cause of death is yet to be determined. There were some minor traffic interruptions around the area for a short period of time.

Quick response: SP Ausnet responded quickly to calls from The Star about a truck touching power-lines in Leongath’s McCartin Street recently. SP Ausnet was informed last Monday week about the lines problem and early on Tuesday, February 28, raised the height of the lines to a safer level. With the amount of large trucks coming through Leongatha’s CBD, the town could nearly have been brought to a halt if the truck had brought down the lines.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

POLICE BRIEFS Toora assault A TOORA man was arrested after assaulting a 53-year-old Toora man on Saturday. At around 10pm, the 24-year-old offender allegedly grabbed a barmaid in a headlock at the Royal Standard Hotel in Toora after being refused service and assaulted the older man after he attempted to intervene. The offender pushed the man against a wall before going to the rear of the hotel and smashing the victim’s windscreen. After inspecting his damaged vehicle, the victim sat in his car at around midnight. The offender then reached through the car’s open window and punched the victim in the head. The offender will be summonsed to appear at court at a later date.

Car damage POLICE are searching for a group of youths who were walking through The Crescent in Inverloch on Sunday February 26.

At around 5.20am, a woman was woken by a group of around 10 people walking along the street and yelling. She witnessed one of the youths jump onto her car and run over the boot, roof and bonnet. When inspecting her car the next morning, the woman found a dent in the roof with a foot impression, with the damage valued at about $500. The only description available is that the offender was a teenager wearing light coloured clothing. Anyone with information regarding this offence can call Sgt Glenn Parke at Inverloch Police on 5674 1202 or Crimestoppers.

Cash stolen A SLIDING glass window was smashed and money stolen from the Inverloch Tennis Club in Pier Road overnight on Monday, February 27. Offenders broke a padlocked metal cable wrapped around the alcohol fridge, before stealing a cash tin containing a small amount of money. No alcohol was taken during the burglary. Anyone with information regarding this of-

fence can call Inverloch Police on 5674 1202 or Crimestoppers.

McDonalds restaurant and damage to a mail box in Owen Street.

Thefts from cars

Speed warning

POLICE have once again warned people to lock their cars after possessions were stolen from four vehicles in Wonthaggi last Friday morning.

POLICE warn drivers to slow down after several motorists were picked up for speeding over the past week.

All of the vehicles were parked in private driveways located in White Road and McKenzie Street. Property including a battery charger, bolt cutters and cash were stolen. These are crimes of opportunity and police urge all drivers to lock their car doors, even when parked in their own driveway, to deter thieves. Anyone with information regarding these thefts can contact Wonthaggi Police on 5672 1222 or Crimestoppers.

Taken to court A 32-YEAR-OLD Leongatha man will be summonsed to court for offences including theft, criminal damage and being drunk in a public place. The charges arose after a number of different incidents over the past week, including a theft from

A Morwell lady was detected and fined for driving 80km/h in a 60km/h zone in Leongatha last Sunday afternoon. Despite not being a holiday period, Leongatha Police are out and about enforcing the legal speed limits in the area.

Drinking offences A 24-YEAR-OLD Leongatha man received an on-the-spot fine for $489 after being found drunk in Roughead Street, Leongatha over the weekend. The man was issued a penalty notice and released into the care of his parents. Another young man will be summonsed to attend court after driving over the legal blood alcohol limit last weekend. The man was intercepted by Mirboo North Police whilst driving home from a party.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 9

Ban puts brakes on MS sufferer By Isaac McCallum

LEONGATHA couple Steph Spokes and John Hulls have been told they will no longer be welcome on the V/Line bus service. The pair usually travels from Leongatha to Melbourne, but will have to find an alternative route from now on as Ms Spokes, a Multiple Sclerosis sufferer, cannot leave her mobility scooter in the spacious luggage compartment. Despite never having trouble with it in the past, the transport company has told the couple that carrying the scooter below deck was unsafe.

“I don’t see how it’s unsafe,” Mr Hulls said. “We’ve been able to stick it in before without trouble. The handlebars fold right down and the brakes on the wheels mean it won’t move at all.” In the past the couple has put the scooter in and bus drivers have positioned suitcases around it as a backup. A manager from Westernport Roadlines, which runs the V/Line service in the area, told the couple the scooter was not able to continue coming on the bus due to V/Line rules. “The guys from Westernport were fantastic. They were good enough to let us know, but it still leaves us in a tough spot,” Mr Hulls said. The duo cannot travel without Ms

Spokes’ scooter, as walking too far leaves her exhausted. When not on her scooter, she walks with the aid of a crutch. “I get tired very quickly. I can’t walk far at all,” she said. The problem can be solved when Mr Hulls is around to take her to appointments, as he can drive the car, but problems arise when Ms Spokes needs to go on her own. “Steph’s not the only disabled person around. There are plenty of people in a similar situation that live on their own and are going to struggle with this rule,” Mr Hulls said. “It’s going to make it hard for them. It’s just going to be a case of too bad if you don’t have any assistance.”

Aquasure rejects desal claims by Simone Short AQUASURE has rejected claims by the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union and the Electrical Trades Union their members went on strike for a combined 11 days over the past three years. Victorian Water Minister Peter Walsh last week said Aquasure, the company in charge of building the Victorian Desalination Plant in Wonthaggi, has lodged claims for 290 days of lost time.

AquaSure communications’ senior advisor Louisa McPhee said the claims did not only take into consideration workers going on strike. “The issue of lost time is not just about strike action; it is also about poor productivity,” she said. With the completion date of the desal project already two years overdue, AquaSure has also sought an extension to the project’s deadline from the State Government. Ms McPhee could not reveal the length of time nor the amount of money the company requested in its claims. “AquaSure cannot can-

vas the detail of the claims other than to say that our construction contractor has lodged claims in relation to weather, productivity and industrial activity,” she said. “Our contract with the government provides for AquaSure’s contractors to lodge claims in certain circumstances. Any claim by any of the project parties would need to be assessed as per the process defined in the contract. “Regardless, AquaSure remains committed to working together with the state and Thiess Degremont Joint Venture to achieve the successful delivery of this project.”

Mr Walsh said according to recent media reports, Suez Environment, a company affiliated with Degremont, had lodged more than $1 billion worth of claims with the government. “The state’s contract is with AquaSure and they have lodged claims for 200 days of lost time due to industrial action and 90 days of time lost due to cyclonic activity,” he said. Mr Walsh said the government would “vigorously defend” any claims that had not been substantiated against the Project Deed.

Brakes on: Steph Spokes and John Hulls have been told they are not allowed on a V/Line bus if Steph has her scooter with her.

PAGE 10 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

SPECIAL birthday greetings go out to Meryl Caple who resides in Strzelecki House, Mirboo North. Meryl is celebrating her 90th birthday today, March 6.

EVERY surf life saving club in Australia has the chance to win a $20,000 makeover courtesy of the Navy. All club members have to do is play an online life saving game and rescue as many swimmers as they can. The promotion is currently running and closes on March 15. Check out the Navyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page to enter http://apps.facebook.com/ surfboatrescue.

THE Leongatha Community House is holding RSA and Food Safety level 1 accreditations on March 19. For more information or to book a place, please call

5662 3962. TARWIN Valley Campdraft Club is holding a Ian Francis horsemanship clinic on March 6 and 7, at the Dumbalk grounds. They will also be holding their campdraft on March 10, 11 and 12, also at the Dumbalk grounds. The event will feature a band on Saturday night, bar facilities and a canteen. First prize for the feature novice event is a Hawkesbury River Saddle Co. Fender saddle. Contact Richelle on 5664 8373 or Heather on 0418 564 157 for more information. A VALUABLE set of keys was lost in Leongatha last Tuesday. The keys were misplaced between the gym

on McCartin Street and the Ritchie Street intersection. A reward is being offered for the keys and if found please contact Ron Mullins on 5668 1510. THE Leongatha Secondary College Centenary Reunion Dinner, to be

held on April 28 has sold out. Bookings closed on March 2, once the final tickets had been allocated. There are still some Cabaret places available but they are filling quickly. To secure your seat, phone Lyn Poletti on 5662 4333.

OVER the March long weekend, provision of meals and showers for South Gippsland Shire Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home and Community Care clients will continue as usual, however other services such as community transport, respite and general home care ser-

vices will not be provided on Monday, March 12. A STAR staff member was looking at the sky late Sunday night, from her house in Hallston when a bright orange fireball moved across the sky, before breaking up

and disappearing. The entire display lasted several minutes. There have been other sightings reported of a similar phenomenon on an internet forum site from other Gippsland residents, as well as Melbourne, Tasmania and Newcastle.

Banksia Lodge receives big surprise By Sarah Vella BANKSIA Lodge Hostel, a division of Prom Country Aged Care Inc. received a surprise on March 1, when the donation they received from The James Charitable Trust was $20,000 more than the $300,000 they were expecting. The $320,000 cheque was handed over in a ceremony attended by three members of the James Charitable Trust: board member Graham Miller, treasurer Doug Evans and chairman Dennis Belcher. The president of Banksia Lodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s committee of management, Sandy Bucello, tearfully accepted the donation, along with Banksia Lodge CEO Claire Schmierer, fundraising committee chairperson, Julie Need, committee of management treasurer Phil Nightingall and fundraising committee members Leanne Van Dyke and Trisha Moon. Six residents of the hostel were also present to witness the historical occasion. Ms Bucello was visibly moved by the generous donation and thanked the trust

â&#x20AC;&#x153;for considering Banksia Lodge for the grant, which is a huge amount and will make a big difference to the centreâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is the biggest single contribution that Banksia Lodge has received,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Small communities such as ours struggle without such generous donations and rely on charitable contributions to develop and progress.â&#x20AC;? The James Charitable Trust was founded in 1934, with the primary purpose being to help hospitals and further the cause of medicine generally. Mr Belcher explained that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the trust legally has a life span of 80 yearsâ&#x20AC;? and after being alerted to the needs of Banksia Lodge by Mr Millerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s son-inlaw, Dr David Polmer, the trust decided to â&#x20AC;&#x153;give the gift that we are giving today, which comprises the bulk of the remaining trust fundâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was necessary for us to find a worthy organisation that could fulfil the trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charter and we believe we have found that organisation in Banksia Lodge,â&#x20AC;? Mr Belcher said.

Big cheque: members of the James Charitable Trust hand over a cheque to Banksia Lodge Hostel. From left: Leanne Van Dyke, Trisha Moon, Doug Evans, Julie Need, Dennis Belcher, Graham Miller, Claire Schmierer and Phil Nightingall. The donation will go towards a new facility for aged care, with 60 beds. Banksia Lodge needs to raise $2.707 million, in order to have the building completed. To date the fundraising committee has raised nearly

$1.3 million. Their goal is to reach $2 million by the end of the year, meaning that approximately $800,000 needs to be raised over the next 10 months. The fundraising committee has a number of projects in the pipeline, includ-

ing the commemorative paver initiative. They hope to reach their target of selling1000 pavers, which are available for $100 each. The pavers will then become a part of a sensory garden, or a courtyard outside the new building.

Supporting cause: a scene from Relay for Life last year.

Cancer far from trivial THE Mexican hat team is holding a trivia night to raise funds for the Cancer Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South Gippsland Relay For Life. The event will be held on March 17 at the Dumbalk Hall at 7pm. Tables will be up to eight to 10 people, with the cost $10 per head. Those who cannot organise a table are welcome to come and will be put with a team. Raffles/door prizes will be held. The theme of the night will be St Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and the evening promises to be fun for everyone involved. Bring your own nibbles/drinks and cups.

For bookings phone Belinda on 5664 4360 or email brass@dcsi.net.au All the teams are having fun raising money for such a good cause and will be enjoying all the entertainment that is planned for the relay. The South Gippsland Relay For Life will be held on April 21 and 22 at Dumbalk Recreation Reserve. We are still hoping for more teams and volunteers, so come along and register, walk for cancer research and join in the fun of the day. For more information or to register your interest, please contact Chris or Walter on 0428 644 397.

:RUNFRYHU &ODLPV ,I \RX GRQÂśW ÂżJKW \RX ORVH 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

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 11

Edney’s to take on Yamaha EDNEY’S is taking over the Yamaha motorcycle franchise in Leongatha. Dealer principal Darryl McGannon of Edney’s is “excited about the additional range, which will complement the existing Hyundai and Nissan”. “Motorcycles, particularly with Yamaha being a high quality product, will fit in perfectly with what Edney’s already does,” he said. A few changes will be made to the store over the next few months, which will include expanding the range of bikes and accessories. The outgoing owners of the franchise, Kevin and Jo Gray thank their staff and customers for their loyal support over the last 25 years. The Grays also wish Mr McGannon and Ian Marshman, one of the new partners of the Yamaha franchise of Edney’s and their staff all the best for the future.

Yamaha changes over: Nick Mueller (left), the Yamaha state dealer support representative, with former owner Kevin Gray with new owners Darryl McGannon and Ian Marshman.

Happy family: baby Zaki, born on February 29 with his family Jada, 4, with dad Martin, Maarli, 6 and proud mum Karen..

Zaki leaps into 2012 By Sarah Vella ZAKI Isaiah Burggraaff was supposed to be a March baby, but he couldn’t wait. Instead, he was born on February 29 at 7.20am in the Leongatha Memorial Hospital. He is a little brother for Maarli, 6 and Jada, 4, who are both excited to have a new baby in the family. Zaki’s parent’s, Karen Aldridge and Martin Burggraaff of Outtrim, have decided that he will have his usual birthday on the 28th, “because he was born closer to the 28th than the 1st”, Ms Aldridge said. Zaki is the first person on the Aldridge side of the family to be born in February and the first Burggraaff grandchild to be born in February, which is no mean feat considering he is the thirteenth great grandchild on that side. Zaki has also been born in the Chinese astrology year of the water dragon,

which is said be to very lucky. Zaki was not the only baby born in our region on

the 29 th, with one reportedly being born at South Gippsland Hospital in Foster.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

No mistake

REGARDING your editorial last week headed “Over 55 and angry” (The Star, February 28). Yes, there is a dispute over the proposed development abutting The Grange retirement village (in Leongatha), but not over a “mistake”, rather someone changing their mind after the event and conveniently suggesting it was a mistake. There have been many occasions during the selling of villas at The Grange that purchasers were advised that the vacant land abutting was going to be an alike development; some told that a walk way was envisaged between the two villages; some told that the development would be under a separate owners corporation; some advised more recently that the builder had been asked by the developer to build an alike development but due to the builder’s retirement plans this was discounted. Some were advised (and documented) that when building took place, it was envisaged that they would build single storey abutting The Grange and two storey further down near the creek. Reference is also made to the 173 Agreement. The document references a plan of subdivision - “the subject land” - that does not exist, despite this fact it was signed off by the developers and the shire back in 2004. Yes, a mistake! However the

correct referenced plan of subdivision clearly incorporates the subject land that includes The Grange and Lot 36, the vacant land. However despite all the above, the residents of The Grange, being reasonable people, have recognised that there are circumstances under which the developer may not wish to honour commitments that had been verbally given on numerous occasions prior to, times have a habit of changing. So all that is reasonably being requested is that the seven out of 23vacant lots abutting The Grange have restrictions placed on them to only permit single storey development, thus preserving not only what was promised but making sure that no one is confronted with a two storey house spoiling the retirement lifestyle that they were sold. Not unreasonable one would think? More so a sensible, moral and mature compromise in today’s changing world. We may be in retirement but we have not lost our marbles just yet! Let’s hope VCAT does not have to be involved, which will protract the matter when reasonableness at this stage could prevail. Peter Griffiths, For and on behalf of the Grange Owners Corporation Committee and residents, Leongatha.

E D I T O R I A L

Mixed feelings THE approval of the South Gippsland Rural Land Use Strategy by the State Government last week is cause for relief, regardless of whether or not one likes it. Those in favour welcome the ability to now move ahead with their dreams to build on titles that meet the new criteria for housing in the Farming Zone. Those against can take some degree of heart in knowing where the line is now drawn. Regardless of their stance, South Gippslanders should be satisfied that this council now offers greater freedom for one to live in rural areas than in many other Victorian shires. In the Farming Zone elsewhere in the state, a permit application for a house requires applicants to demonstrate the dwelling is needed for agriculture. South Gippsland council has at least been able to obtain permission to allow housing on lots up to 4.1ha without demonstrating a link to an agricultural use. There are such 2000 vacant lots in the shire and that is 2000 extra opportunities for people to live in the country than the municipality had before. By the same token, even if all of those lots were to be built upon, the impact on agricultural land would be minimal, as the 2000 lots consume 2400ha or just 0.7 per cent of the total area of the shire. Furthermore, the creation of Rural Activity Zones will permit greater business opportunities in certain outlying areas and is again another concession gained that council should be applauded for. Nonetheless, the finalisation of the strategy does end the hopes of people with lots falling just beyond the scope of the relevant criteria. They are now unable to build a home. To these people, no words can ease their anguish. Ideally, a government funded buyback scheme or the like could have at least enabled people to offload an asset that will drop considerably in value. Ultimately tax-payers would have to fund such a scheme and that in itself would create controversy.

Farm rates I AM writing to make some points clear to the wider community, as I see that council is not upholding its role under the Local Government Act section 3(C) to ensure the equitable imposition of rates and charges. Council makes use of a differential rating system whereby council places ratepayers into groups of similar rate-payers. In South Gippsland they use the following groupings and apply the appropriate rate in the dollar as indicated in the table: residential (0.00351451), farm (0.00316306) and commercial (0.00351451). So you see, farmers’ rate is 10 per cent less than residential and commercial rates. Because the rates are calculated on the value of the property and because farms have much more land than a residential house has surrounding the house, farms get on average a rate bill twice that of the average residential property. Although one farmer pays over $35,000 in rates! This is not equitable. The Local Government Act states that a council can use the differential rate if“it considers that the differential rate will contribute to the equitable and efficient carrying out of its functions”. Therefore, by applying a differential rate, council is saying that the farmers group should pay less in the dollar than other groups. By including all the value of the farm in the calculation however, the result is perverse, resulting in farmers paying twice that of an identical person living in town and using perhaps no more or less services than themselves. The differential rating system was introduced into the act following a discussion in the Victorian parliament in 1949 where it was stated on the record that: “farmlands shall be rated at a lesser amount in the 1 than other lands. Persons engaged in farming pursuits need much more land for a given return than those engaged in other branches of industry. They are undoubtedly carrying a heavy burden under a system which rates on land values” (Hansard: p 3811 [Assembly] November 10, 1949 – Brigadier Tovell). Maybe councillors are unaware that the differential rate was inserted so that farmers could be treated equitably compared to other rate-payer groups. One would presume that meant pay the same for the same level

of services compared to other groups of similar individuals. Look at other councils. Ararat gives a 47 per cent differential rate reduction. That means farmers pay a fair amount compared to town dwellers. Latrobe? They give 25 per cent. Looking at many shires, it seems South Gippsland are the meanest bar one in their level of support to farmers. What about the commercial group? South Gippsland treats them the same as residential. Baw Baw increases their rate to over two times what South Gippsland charges. Other shires are even higher so overall, it seems that South Gippsland charges commercial groups nothing like as much as other shires. Seems South Gippsland can just rely on slugging the farmers. I would think the majority of rate-payers would understand the issue with farming rates and agree that they should be reduced. I approached 133 people for signatures for the petition going before council in April and only one person refused to sign. The people I asked were not just farmers. I asked many town people as well and bar one, they all signed happily. There are 8000 farming ratepayers out there. Assuming two rate-payers per property and I am sure everyone can accept that they would have all signed if I had managed to get around to all of them. That, along with town rate-payers who saw the sense in this idea would be an overwhelming number supporting this issue. I call upon council to consider seriously this matter and begin discussions about bringing a fair and equitable system in place for farmers, and all groups within the shire which after all is what the Local Government Act requires them to do. Finally, I must stress that I am not suggesting residential rates should be raised. I have already suggested ways that council could assist the farmers group without affecting town dwellers and after reviewing council’s budget papers for this year, I am able to state categorically that council can make good by the farmers without raising residential ratepayers’ rates. Anyone wishing to know more can call me on 5668 9269 7pm to 9pm any evening. Don Hill, Wild Dog Valley.

Retain pool REGARDING “Pulling the Plug” and “Korumburra to Grow” (The Star, February 28, 2012). Would common sense suggest that if Korumburra is rapidly growing and we are to provide extra land for potentially 600 new houses, then wouldn’t it be good to have a community swimming pool? Oh, that’s right we do have one, but the shire is teasing everyone with the idea of closing it. In an interview with Jacob de Kunder on page 9 of The Star last week, council’s strategic planning manager, Mr Paul Stampton quoted: “The planning process will ensure that important community infrastructure is considered and fairly contributed to by new residents”. Six hundred new residents equals more rates, which equals more available funds to support community infrastructure like swimming pools and sports stadiums. If our community pools are judged on attendance, then you would envisage that this will grow with the town. I have personally attended every pool in this shire except Foster this summer for swimming carnivals, school swimming sports and for simply keeping cool on a hot day. My family have been members of the Korumburra pool for several years and have used this facility “forever”. Wouldn’t it be terrible to look back in 10 years and wish growing towns like Korumburra, Poowong, Mirboo North, Foster and Toora had a community swimming facility. Maybe the shire could have put more thought into the development of SPLASH and spread the millions instead of dumping it in one area. Maybe those looking to develop towns like Korumburra could spend some money in upgrading the local facilities, like swimming pools and sports grounds, to attract more people to live in, visit and invest in our towns. Our shire has to stop being negative with a one eyed solution and stand up as our representatives and adjust their finances to keep these pools! PS. I would also like a break-down of how these pools cost us $54,982 per week.

Scott McKenzie,

Korumburra.

Right idea?

I AM writing to inform those within the shire that may not have been notified by the South Gippsland Shire Council of the rate-payers’ monies that will be spent in extending the Great Southern Rail Trail from Foster to Welshpool. I received a letter from the shire dated February 27, 2012 that states in part and I quote: “On December 21, 2011 the council resolved to submit an application seeking $2,000,000 to the State Government’s Regional Growth Fund”. The letter also goes on to state that: “The total project cost is $2.9m with council allocating $900,000”. With the council announcing that we the rate-payers will be expected to pay rates that will rise each year to cover ongoing rising council operation costs. These rises will come on top of the carbon tax and the expected large rises in the cost of living. My question to Mr Tamlin, chief executive officer and signee of the afore mentioned letter is: in these hard times, how does the council justify spending $900,000 raised by the rates of many to benefit so few? Surely in these times the money could be spent on more worthwhile projects. Reg James, Welshpool.

Simons Lane

MY wife and I have lived on the corner of Simons Lane and Bass Highway for over 63 years. Countless thousands of vehicles have turned this corner and yet no accidents of note. There have been numerous accidents on Bass Highway, quite a considerable number fatal. If this lane is closed prior to the building of a better traffic way, there will be considerable confusion and congestion in the main street of Leongatha and Koonwarra Road. There will need to be traffic lights in McCartin Street. We agree with Cr Lewis for better signage and speed limits approaching the lane. In the present situation, there does not appear to be any danger. Laurie and Mary Ryan, Leongatha.

VOXPOP! VOX Are you planning on attending the Stony Creek Cup this Sunday?

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.

No, on Sundays I attend church at the Meeniyan Christian Fellowship. Paul Brailey, Leongatha

No, we have a basketball tournament on in Traralgon that weekend. Jo Allen, Korumburra

No, I am not going; I am not really interested in horse racing. Cara Collins, Leongatha

Yes, it is going to be a family day out. Dean Cashin, Leongatha

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 13

Poor performance FOR the last three months, proponents of Dairy Australia have pledged their support based purely on an emotional level that is nothing more that scaremongering. Those who oppose DA can see through this facade and realise that they can be better off spending their money on the items that will return a better option for themselves, rather than continuing to pour good funds down the drain. Unfortunately there is a factor of uncertainty amongst some groups of farmers. The continuous pressure from the UDV, the ADF, those fellow farmers who may or may not have some material gain in retaining DA and now a major farmer-owned milk

company, that is being applied is causing some farmers to second guess themselves. It is not the position of UDV, ADF or Murray Goulburn to support the wants of DA, but rather to allow the farmers the right to judge for themselves what option they will vote for and allow them to do this with respect and dignity. It is though, the responsibility of those who can see through the misleading and deceptive conduct to do what they can do to state the truth. I have challenged the arguments of DA that they not only deserve to stay in existence, but also worthy of a 10 per cent pay rise yet all they can offer as compelling evidence that DA is beneficial to the farmers, are words. DA generates a return of $3.30 for

every $1 of levy paid. Quite clearly the return generated is below that of the CPI. There is no organisation in this country that could survive an investment return like this. It provides a very powerful picture that shows how far removed DA is from the reality that the farmers face. If dairy farmers ran their businesses with the same mentality as DA the industry would collapse within a very short period of time. Thank goodness the majority of farmers ignore this shortsightedness. I ask that those farmers who may be second guessing themselves to gather all of the information they can, challenge it and make an informed decision. Kevin Ashworth, Koroit.

Maritime history unravelled A CAPTIVATING collection of paintings is now on display at the Coal Creek Community Gallery at Korumburra.

The Ships That Shaped Australia is an exhibition of famous vessels of discovery, magnificent sailing ships, pioneer steamships, naval vessels and contemporary craft. “All these wonderful works are acrylic on board by the late Jack Koskie, a professional artist and teacher,” said Coal Creek co-ordinator Rowena Ashley. “He completed the series during the 1970s and ’80s for his book, Ships That Shaped Australia which was published in 1987. As you look at them, you can almost smell the salt air and hear the waves crashing!” The collection was recently presented to the

Riding waves: enjoying the maritime masterpieces are Mina Ryad and Danielle Todaro. Maritime Museum of Victoria, a group of independent museums, and is on loan to Coal Creek until April 30.

The Community Gallery is open seven days a week, 9am to 5pm at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum,

Silkstone Rd, Korumburra. Enquiries 5655 1811 or www.coalcreekvillage. com.au

Health insurance costs to rise THE 45,500 Gippsland residents covered by private health insurance will be hard hit by the Federal Government’s decision to means test the rebate. Every Gippslander with private health insurance would end up paying more because of the legislation, local MPs have warned. Gippsland MP Darren Chester said the means test would result in about 1.6 million Australians dropping private hospital cover over the next five years and another 4.3 million Australians downgrading their level of coverage. “This will have an impact on the costs for everyone who remains in

private health insurance with higher annual premiums. The loss of younger members is also estimated to increase all premiums by 10 per cent,” he said. “The means test provides that singles earning over $83,000 and families over $166,000 will pay up to $1000 more. “The government’s decision to means test private health insurance will also place extra pressure on the public hospital system. “It’s estimated that 845,000 new procedures will be forced onto the public hospitals system, putting further pressure on waiting lists.” McMillan MP Russell Broadbent was also concerned the insurance hike would result in a deterioration

of medical services in Gippsland. “My main concern is that we would not be able to continue to attract the base of specialists that we have in Gippsland and they would go back to the city,” he said. People who have held health insurance for a long time stand to lose out. “People who have paid health insurance for such a long time would not get the benefit from the length of time they had paid into it,” Mr Broadbent said. He said by increasing the Medicare Levy, people would be forced to pay much higher taxes than they otherwise would, “so they are being blackmailed into having to keep their private insurance”.

February totals boosted by late rain IF it hasn’t been for the soaking that occurred in the last few days of February, it would have been quite a dry month. Margery Robson of Ruby recorded a total of 100.5mm in February spread over 12 days. So far this year Ms Robson has recorded 190.5mm in total.

Forty-seven of the 100.5mm that fell over Ruby in February came down in the last three days of the month, with February 28 the wettest day with 42.5mm recorded. Neville Buckland of Fish Creek has had 89.5mm fall on his farm this February, which is more than double the average rainfall expected in that region for this time

of year. Mr Buckland also received the bulk of his February rain in the last few days of the month, with 67mm falling on February 27. Mr Buckland has had a total of 160.5mm this year, which is remarkably less than the cumulative total for the end of February in 2011, which was 221mm. Leongatha has fol-

lowed the pattern of receiving all of its rain at the end of February. Kay Puru recorded five rainy days for February, with the total for the month reaching 71.8mm. Again, February 28 was the wettest day of the month, with 47mm falling in Leongatha on that day. Ms Puru has now had a total of 120.8mm for the start of 2012.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Heritage talk sparks concern

DEBATE over whether Toora’s future could be stifled by a heritage overlay has overshadowed a new plan for the development of Corner Inlet communities.

South Gippsland Shire Council recently adopted the Eastern District Urban Design Frameworks, which guide the future of Toora, Port Franklin, Welshpool, Port Welshpool, Mount Best, Agnes and Hedley. Council received 13 public submissions regarding the strategy referring to the possibility of a heritage overlay for Toora. Deputy mayor Cr Mohya Davies said despite the reference, the strategy would not impose a heritage overlay. “Consideration may in the future be given to a

heritage precinct overlay and the community will have ample opportunity to be involved,” she said. “I urge council to consider that because we may lose some of the historical buildings in Toora forever.” Cr Jeanette Harding, a Toora resident, sought to move an amendment to remove the reference to a heritage precinct overlay. She also urged council to start talking with property-owners in Stanley Street about whether they were in voluntary agreement for a heritage precinct. Cr David Lewis backed that intention. “I think there is everything to fear. They (Toora people) have been through this twice before and I can assure you that process is so complex that the documents are hard for people to understand,” he said. “There is nothing right now that is stopping coun-

cil from asking the people in Stanley Street whether they want the precinct. “If there is nothing to worry about, let’s just take the sentence (referring to the overlay) out.” Cr Jim Fawcett said opposing councillors were raising “unnecessary fears”. “For council to consider the heritage overlay is a separate issue and if it does come back to council, there will then be an opportunity for the community to make their views known,” he said. “I just find this scaremongering of the worst type.” Cr Bob Newton said the overlay reference was “frightening a lot of people”. “I think we are creating a rod for our own backs by not accepting the amendment (of Cr Harding’s),” he said. Cr Mimmie Jackson said some Toora residents would welcome having heritage protection rules. Toora businesswoman Barbara Morris said heritage restrictions would hinder business, saying many shops are not open often enough now to service tourists and more rules would further confine their operations. Mayor Cr Warren Raabe believed the heritage debate had removed emphasis on council’s good work on the strategy. Council chose the Corner Inlet communities for such a study given the impact of business closures, resulting in population decline, ageing communities and social disadvantage. Among the actions

suggested by the strategy are: • Port Franklin: restructure inappropriate subdivisions, consider developing public recreation facilities and link the town with the Great Southern Rail Trail; • Toora: rezone some land north of the highway to low density residential, rezone council owned recreation reserves, encourage visitors to leave the highway and shop in town, support redevelopment of the former Bonlac milk factory, build new toilets in Sagasser Park, consider creating a community hub, install planter boxes in Stanley Street and enhance the railway reserve; • Welshpool: improve the recreation reserve, support economic growth, improve cycling and pedestrian paths, promote the rail trail, support outdoor dining, and upgrade facilities and tourist information; • Port Welshpool: encourage tourism related development at the town entrance, support the refurbishment of the Long Jetty and investigate the staged development of a marina; • Mount Best, Agnes and Hedley: support community use of Mount Best and Hedley halls, enhance the entrances to Agnes, upgrade the picnic spot at Hedley; look for tourism opportunities at Mount Best, Hedley and Agnes; and upgrade and install signs along the Mount Best - Tin Mine Road drive.

Fighting the plan: Cr Jeannette Harding will continue to fight against a heritage overlay for Toora.

Heritage threat for Toora By Matt Dunn CR JEANETTE Harding’s voice cracks with emotion: “I tried very hard but I obviously didn’t try hard enough.” The South Gippsland Shire councillor and Toora resident believes a proposed heritage overlay may sound the death knell for her town. While she battled hard at the recent council meeting to defeat it, she “didn’t have the numbers”. “I tried to move a motion and the secretary typed it up, but when I tried to present that motion I was told one had already been presented and I couldn’t do a second motion,” she said. The motion in question, proposed by Cr Mohya Davies, was to adopt the Eastern District Urban Design Framework (the document that outlines council’s heritage plans for Port Franklin, Toora, Welshpool, Port Welshpool, Mount Best, Agnes and Hedley). While Cr Harding said she accepts the broad principles of the framework, she does not accept a proposal to slap a heritage overlay on Toora’s main thoroughfare of Stanley Street. “I just feel devastated that the community here have been so emotional about this particular thing. The majority of my colleagues have voted for the other proposal. That makes me feel that I’ve failed my community. I had councillors Lewis and Newton supporting me, but we couldn’t do

anything about it because we didn’t have the numbers,” she said. Cr Harding said that when she was mayor in 2001-02 the heritage issue was raised, only to be howled down by the people. The issue resurfaced in 2004, but was again quashed. “It’s come up again in 2012. Why? There seems to be an idea in council that Toora is a heritage town. Well it’s my home and it’s a lovely town and I’d do anything I thought was for the benefit of it, but the people have to come first,” she said. “We are going to have to be continually on our guard against it. As long as I’m in council, I’ll fight for what my community wants.” Cr Harding believes a clause from a heritage study in 2002 was still active, with a requirement that council ask a property owners’ consent to implement the plan. It’s a fact that she intends to use to safeguard residents and property owners, who she thinks will be hamstrung and out of pocket should the overlay be introduced. Toora resident and business owner Barbara Morris, who spoke to council against the heritage overlay, said the “timing is not right and will never be right”. “I have been involved in and at Toora for the past 12 years and I don’t have to tell any of you how lost Toora is at the moment. I feel sure as councillors you know our situation,” she said.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 15

Coastal hub takes shape By Brad Lester THE Sandy Point community could have a new hall by May. Construction of the $1.6 million Sandy Point Community Centre is expected to be finished then, heralding the end to a campaign that began in 2000. The new centre will feature a main hall, meeting rooms, an office/ consulting room, kitchen and great outdoor deck, and will improve the social, recreational, cultural and civic activities available for residents and visitors. The centre will feature a modern design that will complement the coastal surrounds. T.P. Taylor Reserve Committee of Management spokesperson Diane Casbolt said the centre would enhance the sense of community. “We will have a community centre that will start to provide a lot more activities,” she said. Dancing lessons, University of the Third Age activities, child minding and bowls will be among the activities offered. The consulting rooms will allow doctors and other health professionals to visit, enabling residents to stay in their homes for longer. The centre could also serve as a place of last resort in the event of a bushfire and as such, the Country Fire Authority will pay for minor upgrades to improve the centre’s safety, including bollards, vegetation changes and flyscreens. “The main space in the community centre will be about twice as big as the old hall,” Ms Casbolt said. Council’s engineering manager Tony Price said the centre would pro-

vide the community with a “fantastic new facility”. The structure and roof are complete, and cladding of the building exterior is underway. “This is one of the largest Commonwealth funded projects to occur in South Gippsland and is an outstanding example of a determined local community willing to work in partnership with council, and State and Federal governments to achieve their goals,” Mr Price said. “The Sandy Point community really is to be congratulated for their tenacity and teamwork.” The Federal Government contributed $1.295 million, South Gippsland Shire Council $150,000 and the rest will come from the community. The campaign since 2000 has been long and one of persistence, Ms Casbolt said. “It’s been a struggle because it’s a seaside town with a transient population. It was hard for towns like Sandy Point to tick the right boxes set by the government to qualify for funds,” she said. “It was a matter of lobbying the government to bend the boxes.” The community raised $16,000 in the first year alone through fundraising efforts and now has accumulated $150,000, with just another $10,000 to go. Raffles, trivia nights, bush dances and markets have added to the tally. When the Federal Government announced its national building stimulus package during the economic downturn some years ago, the Sandy Point Community Centre was a ‘shovel ready project’. Mr Price said the old hall no longer met the community’s needs. “Community consultation had

At last: members of the T.P. Taylor Reserve Committee of Management watch the new Sandy Point Community Centre being built, from left: Dianne Cooper, Mary Shaw, Etta Stewart, Diane Casbolt and Sally Gibson. identified issues that needed to be addressed and for which a better facility was required: social isolation, internet access, aged, youth and childcare, life-long learning, visiting health professionals, environmental issues and provision of tourism information,” he said. Although about 20 per cent of Sandy Point’s houses are occupied permanently, the town is growing and diversifying, with many young families and retirees. With up to 7000 visitors in summer, the community believes the centre will be widely used. The existing hall was a maintenance shed at the former Yallourn power station in the 1960s and will be demolished.

Future vision: a concept drawing of the Sandy Point Community Centre.

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PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Toilets to remain: Parks By Matt Dunn PARKS Victoria has declared it will not close public toilets at Agnes Falls, after community fears that a budget shortfall could mean the facility would go. “Parks Victoria has no plans to close the toilet facility at Agnes Falls Reserve, and we have applied for funding to replace and upgrade the existing facility,” ranger in charge of South Gippsland Marine and Coastal Parks Gerard Delaney said. “We have been working closely with the South Gippsland Shire and The Friends Group on programs for Agnes Falls Reserve, with a recent promotional photo-shoot undertaken by Tourism Victoria to promote the

falls as one of the attractions within South Gippsland. “An arborist has visited the reserve only recently to clear the ‘viewline’ to improve the visitor experience at the falls, so we are committed to maintaining the reserve.” But a stretched Parks budget is making it difficult for its staff to maintain the site, or contribute to upgrades. Wilsons Promontory and Cape Liptrap Coastal Park have priority as the main tourist attractions in the region. A Parks ratings system that runs from one to five – with one being new and five being ready for decommissioning – puts the toilet block at four. The toilet block is in a sorry state. Head of the Agnes Falls Project Team Kathy Whelan said the toilets were essential to the tourist attraction

and modernised drop toilets were being favoured by Parks. “There is nothing being done in the near future, as far as I’m aware,” she said. “We were quite concerned with the state of the scenic reserve. The picnic tables look very tired. There’s a lot of work that needs to be done there.” Mrs Whelan said the roads leading into Agnes Falls were in a sorry state with a “huge open rut” causing concern. The walking track to the lookout sites was also washed away and “slippery and dangerous”. But more positive moves are afoot for Agnes Falls, Mrs Whelan said. A ‘Friends of Agnes Falls’ group is being planned, with indications from Parks that the establishment of the group would allow for grants to upgrade the site.

Kathy Whelan: the head of the Agnes Falls Project Team is hopeful the establishment of a Friends of Agnes Falls group would assist in the upgrade of the site.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 17

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Inspired by our surroundings ANNA Walker’s interest in painting began halfway across the world over three decades ago. She developed a passion for art whilst living in Munich, in Germany, as a member of an active art group, and continued her hobby “with much enthusiasm” after settling down in Foster. Anna said the stunning scenery of South Gippsland inspires her artworks, currently displayed in her exhibition titled Coastal Attractions at Mushroom Gallery in Leongatha. “For the past 29 years, I have been living in beautiful South Gippsland, surrounded by breathtaking, unspoiled beaches, gently rolling hills, magnificent birds and much more,” she said. “Here I find abundant inspiration and motifs for my painting and also for

my photography.” Anna said her preferred medium is watercolour for its translucency and subtlety, but also because it continues to be “exciting, stimulating and challenging”. In her work, she tries to capture the beauty of the local coastline, especially the “outstanding” Wilsons Promontory National Park in its peace and seasonal changes. “It has been the destination of our much-loved family outings for many years and it still never loses its attraction, no matter how often we visit,” she said. “I like to communicate the affection I feel for this area and awaken viewers’ desire to visit these places and see the scenery in its magic and charm for themselves.” Anna said she feels “a bit

like an ambassador” for South Gippsland, which she describes as “one of the most enchanting corners of Australia”. Anna is a member of the Fish Creek Art Group as well as the Leongatha Art and Crafts Society and remains active in the art scene around South Gippsland. “For the past 12 years, I participated in various group exhibitions at Foster, Leongatha, Mirboo North, Tyers and Sandy Point,” she said. “I also exhibited at the Rotary Art Shows at Leongatha, Yarram and Trafalgar.” She has been successful in a number of art shows, including winning the 2008 Leongatha Arts and Crafts Society Award. Anna’s exhibition will be on display at Mushroom Gallery until the end of March.

From Munich to Foster: after taking up painting in Germany, artist Anna Walter uses the stunning sceneries of South Gippsland as inspiration for her watercolour artworks, currently on display at Mushroom Gallery.

Planned burns to protect community SEVERAL groups are working together to conduct planned burns this season. Bass Coast Shire Council is working together with the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), Parks Victoria and the local Country Fire Authority (CFA) to plan and carry out burns to reduce fuel on public land. Council’s director of community and economic development Steven Piasente said the burns are a key part of a broader process to help protect life, property and the environment from the threat of bushfire.

“The first burn planned on Council controlled land is in the Grantville Gravel Reserve between Stanley Road and the Transfer Station. The burn will be managed by DSE and Parks Victoria and is intended for mid March to late April,” he said. “It will be complemented by a roadside burn along Stanley Road which will be managed by local CFA brigades.” DSE fire management officer David Gallacher said the Stanley Road burn is part of an ongoing program of DSE managed burns. The program includes burns in

the adjoining Nature Conservation Reserve managed by Parks Victoria and other Bass Coast locations such as the Wonthaggi Heathlands, Grantville Bushland Reserve (Colbert Creek) and Scout Drive, Lang Lang. “We are approaching the preferred time for these burns when the conditions are more likely to be mild and calm and not too damp,” Mr Gallacher said. “Each burn is thoroughly planned, conducted and monitored afterwards by trained fire fighters. We take every precaution to ensure the safety of the local community,

fire fighters and the environment.” CFA group officer Damien O’Connor said CFA would be in attendance at each of these burns and was taking the lead in the planning for the Stanley Road roadside burn. “These burns provide an excellent opportunity for CFA, DSE and council to work together to achieve fire prevention outcomes in the community,” he said. Mr Piasente said the planning and management of burns on council land is the result of a co-ordinated approach by fire agencies outlined in the draft Municipal Fire Management Plan.

“The Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee (MFMPC) has committed to work together and share skills whenever possible to reduce bushfire risks across the shire, which is a great result for our residents and visitors,” he said. The committee includes representatives from Bass Coast Shire Council, CFA, DSE, Parks Victoria, Phillip Island Nature Parks and Victoria Police. For more information on fires, planned burns or general fire safety, please contact the Victorian Bushfire Information line on 1800 240 667.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 19

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

Sixty years of photography: Korumburra’s Derrick Ives with his iconic photo of the cloud-covered peaks of the Austrian Tirol.

A life in pictures By Matt Dunn IF not for Adolf Hitler, Derrick Ives believes he may never have taken up photography. The 80-year-old Korumburra photographer’s love affair began in 1943, when his school in Hastings, East Sussex, England, was evacuated to St Albans, 20 miles north of London. “We had a funny sort of timetable, with Wednesday afternoon off, Saturday morning school and Saturday afternoon off. In this spare time there was very little sport as all the athletic young men were at the war and all the older ones didn’t really want to know,” he said. “What did kids do? They went train spotting

– collecting train numbers. They were all steam and I love steam locomotives.” Derrick was enthralled by the work of Ian Allan, a schoolboy who collated the numbers of all the trains on the English network and published them in four books. The works were a surprise success. “He had photographs in the books and then after the war he started producing books that were just photographs. I collected these, but then I started to wonder whether I couldn’t take my own photographs of trains,” he said. Derrick’s mother had an old Kodak folding Brownie from the 1920s, with roll film. The local camera shop, however, sold “dreadful exRAAF” film. “It was used for aerial photography, I

gathered. But you didn’t know what you were getting with the emulsion speed. It was lowcontrast and you didn’t know how to develop it,” Derrick said. He began to experiment with the development process, using various chemicals to gain the desired effect. The year was 1947, just weeks before Derrick’s 16th birthday. “The first results weren’t brilliant,” he admitted with a chuckle. But by 1948 things were looking up, with new film on the market. The results were much better. Derrick and a mate would “cycle all over the place” to take photographs of trains. The photography obsession was really beginning to take hold. In 1965 he embraced colour over black-and-

white. Now he has exchanged film for digital. Two of Derrick’s most striking and awardwinning images are of the iconic Ben Nevis mountain in Scotland and the cloud-covered peaks of the Austrian Tirol. But he is also interested in the minutiae – spider webs, flowers, the delicate and small things from nature. His Korumburra acreage, which is fringed by farmland, has been a rich source of inspiration. *From March 10 – 14 (with an opening on the evening of Friday, March 9) Derrick will exhibit more than 140 photographs at the Korumburra Art Gallery. The exhibition is entitled Sixty Years of Photography.

Camp opens doors to teens Help is out there

TEENAGERS with a disability escaped to a four day camp at Grantville Lodge recently.

Interchange Central Gippsland hosted the summer Teenage Vacation camp for teenagers with a disability living in the Bass Coast and South Gippsland. Interchange Central Gippsland’s Jenni Rohde said: “Despite some wet weather, this summer’s Teenage Vacation camp provided our participants with the opportunity to be involved in some fantastic activities that required a combination of both fun and challenge. “The activities were aimed at providing the teenage participants with a chance to learn new skills and build networks and friendships. “Our program staff carefully planned and structured each day and night to provide a range of fun and rewarding personal development activities that were stimulating and engaging for the teenagers.” Through the TV Program, teenagers were offered opportunities not always readily available to them, such as swimming, canoeing, basketball, archery, volleyball, art and craft as well as the perform-

STUDENTS in need at Mirboo North can now receive a hand.

Animal fan: Teenage Vacation camper Mitchell Saw met horses. ing arts. They were treated to a day trip to Maru Koala and Animal Park, where they got up close and personal with our native wildlife, which included feeding the resident kangaroos. They also played a round of mini golf, went on a luncheon to the Wonthaggi Club and took a tour of the local historical coal mine. “The Teenage Vacation Program is a very popular service offered by Interchange Central Gippsland for teenagers with a disability,” Ms Rhodes said. “It empowers families

by providing a respite opportunity for parents and their extended families across the South Gippsland and Bass Coast area. “It also provides the teenagers with the opportunity for personal growth by building friendship networks within their community while being involved in fun and new activities. “Our volunteers are the backbone of this wonderful service, actively helping us provide assistance and deliver meaningful programs to teenagers and their families.” The volunteers participating in camps can be both

adults and other teenagers. Together they form meaningful relationships with our program participants by being a supportive buddy, becoming a friend and mentor and by helping with day to day tasks. Anyone who would like to become a volunteer with Interchange Central Gippsland or who has a teenage family member living with a disability who would like to access the Teenage Vacation Program can do so by contacting 5127 9797 during business hours or by visiting www.icg.asn.au for further information.

The Mirboo North and District Community Foundation will be partnering with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Mirboo North Secondary College to support students through the 2012 Back to School program. The program is a national program that provides $50 Target gift vouchers for students in need. FRRR has granted $1000 to the Mirboo North and District Community Foundation to provide 20 vouchers to students attending the Mirboo North Secondary College. These vouchers are redeemable for items such as school uniforms, clothing, shoes, school bags and stationery items. The program has been supported by various trusts and foundations, particu-

larly the Sidney Myer Fund whose generosity, together with FRRR, has been the financial backbone of the program. The Mirboo North and District Community Foundation has supported the Mirboo North Secondary College over the past two years by providing grants to assist with the delivery of innovative programs that benefit the students and community. Karen Lanyon of Mirboo North Secondary College said: “These vouchers will be a major benefit to those of our students who require assistance in meeting the ever increasing costs of attending school and providing basic resources, enabling them to focus more directly on their learning and improving their participation in school life. “We thank both the Mirboo North and District Community Foundation and FRRR for their help in supporting our students”.

Makes a difference: Mirboo North Secondary College principal Karen Lanyon with Derrick Ehmke, executive officer, Mirboo North and District Community Foundation, and Norman De Silva, chaplain, Mirboo North Secondary College.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 21

Lighten up on Facebook AFTER drawing a successful number of participants last year, Anti-Depressing Status Week on Facebook is on again. The Facebook event, run by Josh Baker, is about getting those who are writing depressing posts off the computer and talking to someone who can help. “More often than not you come across a depressing status in your news feed,” Josh said. “What’s worse is when people offer a helping hand, it is turned down. “This event is about making sure that people who are down and making depressing statuses can be connected with proper help.” Josh, a Year 11 student at the South Coast Christian College in Leongatha, said the idea came after chatting with mates. “They were complaining about all the statuses that were making Facebook a really unhappy place, so I made this event to try and get people making a happier approach to status,” he said. “I just invited my friends and it rocketed off from there, and we ended up with

over 5000 people involved.” This year, we are focusing on helping those with depression find outlets and get the appropriate help, so they don’t need to use Facebook for anything but positive things. This year, Josh is looking to triple that number and make Facebook a happier place, as well as getting people the help they need. “I have included contacts for Beyond Blue on the event’s page and encourage people who need help to access it,” he said. “I also want this to be a bit of a forum for people to share stories and ideas about how to help friends tackling depression.” Josh is planning to put up a number of flyers around Leongatha to get more people involved. “I’m aiming to have around 15,000 people click ‘attended’ and participate in the event, making Facebook a happier place.” The event will run from March 12 to 18. To get involved, Facebook search Anti-Depressing Status Week and click ‘attending’.

Looking up: Anti-Depressing Status Week founder Josh Baker is hoping to get 15,000 people involved in this year’s event.

Mayor’s message Cr Warren Raabe ON Saturday I was privileged to open the Foster Historical Society’s new education exhibition No more than Five Miles 18701970, alluding to a long ago promise by the government that no child should have to travel more than five miles to school. At one stage there were 39 single teacher schools in the old Shire of South Gippsland alone, established to meet this promise. Many of our older residents would recall riding to school on their ponies or travelling by ‘shanks’ pony’ on freezing cold (and often wet) mornings, and helping the teacher to keep the fire burning, fetching water and pulling the odd dead possum out of the tank. They were of hardier stock than most of us and society is somewhat poorer for the loss of such intestinal fortitude! The society is also celebrating the centenary of the opening of the Agnes school in the building which is now housed at the museum. If you haven’t visited the museum next door to the Stockyard Gallery, you really owe it to yourself to learn about Corner Inlet’s fascinating past. There’s a boat there that belonged to Lasseter (of Lasseter’s Reef fame) and colourful tales and memorabilia of the Foster gold rush days and the settlement of the area. Over the past fortnight council has placed three planning scheme amendments on public exhibition relating to Korumburra.

All three amendments reflect council’s commitment to assisting the development and growth of the town and they address future retail and residential expansion, and the implementation of the structure plan which includes town centre stimulus and the creation of a children’s services hub to cope with increasing regulatory and accommodation demands. We are keen to engage the Korumburra community in this exciting new phase of their development, and our community strengthening and planning staff has been out and about speaking to local groups to increase awareness and invite comment. The documentation can be viewed on www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au, at the Korumburra Library or at Coal Creek, and we encourage residents to have a look at what is the result of several years of community consultation on the directions they wish for their town. After much review the South Gippsland Aquatic Strategy was finally adopted at the last council meeting. While it is difficult to resolve everyone’s concerns, the final version resolved much of the angst that local committees had been feeling regarding the future of their pools. Master plans for the Korumburra and Mirboo North pools will be developed over the next financial year, and other pools in subsequent years. I thank everyone for their input and patience as we strove to create the best outcome within our means. Warren Raabe, Mayor.

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Building of the future at Inverloch A GROUND-BREAKING building material that could fire proof homes and boasts superb insulating qualities is being used in a house now under construction at Inverloch.

Blocks made of fired clay pebbles have been proven not to burn, and provide an insulating barrier to hot and cold weather outside. The inside temperature could be 10 degrees cooler than outside on hot days and 10 degrees warmer on cold days, avoiding the need for electricity draining air-conditioners and heaters. The clay material, marketed as Clinka in Australia, has been used in the harsh winter climate of Europe for as long as 50 years, and could be the key to building safe homes in bushfire areas and general sustainable houses. The Inverloch home is one of few in Australia to be made from blocks of Clinka clay balls. Tasmanian based architect Ryan Strating has designed the Inverloch home and his step-father Ray Childs of Neerim South firm Childs Hodson is building the dwelling. Mr Childs built his own home from clinka blocks based on a design by Mr Strating, and is delighted with the result. “Clinka blocks maintain a pleasant atmosphere. Over summer, we just used our air-conditioner for 10 minutes to see

if it worked. It was cool inside the house when it was hot outside. It gives really good insulation,” Mr Childs said. So unique is the design and material that Mr Childs will enter his home in the Master Builders Association of Victoria’s awards. The fire proofing benefits in a bushy town such as Inverloch are likely to create interest. “The stuff does not burn. It’s completely inert,” Mr Childs said. Mr Strating added: “When you build a house from Clinka it is safe because it won’t burn and does not fail in the extreme heat of a fire.” While the product is more expensive than conventional building materials, the block based construction technique results in faster erection, saving on labour costs. Mr Strating is working to develop an Australian manufacturing plant for Clinka to avoid importation costs and make the product more accessible for new home builders. Inverloch is an ideal location for Clinka homes, as the sandy surface is least reactive to water and ideal for the unique clinka footing BLOK system. This entails laying Clinka under concrete slabs as an insulating layer and blocks are erected like bricks. Even solid floor panels made of Clinka have been erected on the second storey of the Inverloch home.

Little things, big things: builder Ray Childs with loose Clinka balls and the main product, Clinka blocks.

Up, up: builder Ray Childs has been impressed by how easy Clinka blocks are to work with.

Council eyes new offices Artist donates painting to charity show AN OVERHAUL of offices in the Civic Centre at Wonthaggi is scheduled to start this financial year as stage one of a long term masterplan to deal with ongoing office accommodation issues. Bass Coast Shire Council chief executive officer, Allan Bawden, said the Civic Centre Masterplan was an essential part of planning for the continued growth of the shire. “Bass Coast is one of

the fastest growing regions in Victoria and we need to plan for how we will deliver the increased services that a growing population needs,” Mr Bawden said. “In the past 18 months, the organisation has done some comprehensive business planning and reported the results back to the Audit Committee and council.” This involved a complete evaluation of all council services and looked at ways to improve and increase efficiency. Mr Bawden said Bass Coast population is grow-

Helping hand: an Inverloch walking group has donated $225 to a South Gippsland charity that builds schools in Asia and Africa. At an afternoon tea, Joy Berryman of the walking group Inverloch Walkie Talkies, presented a cheque to George Hendry from The Bryn’s School Foundation. The donation was collected from the walkers over the past 12 months.

ing, visitor numbers are increasing, community expectations are changing, as are the ways people are accessing information, and they need to factor all of these things in. “Although stage one is about maximising the use of available space by creating a more efficient office environment, the overall aim is to improve our service delivery,” Mr Bawden said. “For many years, our planning team has been accommodated in several locations, which creates a lot of duplication and inefficiency. By reshaping the Wonthaggi office, we will be able to have the entire team based in one location. This means a better use of resources and better support for our planning team, which has one of the heaviest workloads in regional Victoria.” One of the key changes will be the physical relocation of staff from Cowes; however Mr Bawden said he was confident that the changes would not change the level of service to the Phillip Island community. The stage one project will also involve a redesign of the front foyer in Wonthaggi, to create a more accessible, user friendly service area. Up to $600,000 has been allocated in the current budget to commence stage one, with an estimated total cost of $1 million. The overall masterplan is an ongoing project that will need to be funded over a significant number of years.

RENOWNED Australian artist and local identity Ramon Horsfield will play a significant role in this year’s Inverloch Art Show on the Labour Day long weekend. Mr Horsfield of Coronet Bay has donated a valuable painting as first prize in the Inverloch Art Show committee’s raffle. The art show will be held in the Inverloch Community Care Centre in Reilly Street, behind the Foodworks supermarket. Entry to the show is free, but supporters are encouraged to buy tickets in the raffle. Mr Horsfield will judge the paintings and open the art show at 7pm, Friday, March 9 and raffle tickets for his painting will be on sale throughout the night. Money from the raffle will be used to buy food boxes for distribution to families experiencing short-term financial hardship. This will be carried out by Bass Coast Regional Health Family Resource Centre. The Inverloch Art Show committee has been supporting this program since it helped establish it 26 years ago. Until last year, it was also supported by the Save the Children charity, but this organisation no longer focuses on local community projects. This year’s art show

Top notch: renowned Australian artist Ramon Horsfield (left) has donated a valuable landscape that will be first prize in a raffle. He is showing the painting to committee treasurer, Sarah Spencer-Smith and her husband Cr Ross Smith of Bass Coast Shire Council. is being sponsored by First National Real Estate, The Esplanade Hotel and Foodworks. Other businesses or organisations wishing to become sponsors and support this local project, should contact the committee on 5674 1436. The art show has become a feature of the Inverloch Jazz Festival during the past 26 years. Mr Horsfield and his wife Judith Garde, who is also a painter, have lived in Coronet Bay for the past 30 years. They have produced many paintings for galleries and art shows throughout this time. Mr Horsfield grew up in Middle Park during the depression years and was encouraged by his artist father to pursue an interest

in painting. He studied at the National Gallery Art School under the direction of Sir William Dargie from 1947-52 and was awarded the Certificate of the National Gallery of Victoria, which later became a Diploma of the Gallery. One of his older colleagues at the art school was Clifton Pugh, an internationally acclaimed artist. In 1952 he held his first one-man exhibition at Kozminsky Galleries in Little Collins Street and won a special award in the Dunlop art contest. At the age of 23, Mr Horsfield joined the Victorian Education Department and his first appointment was to the Wonthaggi Technical High School for six months.

During this time he boarded locally with Mrs ‘Grandma’ Cooke. Her cottage was later the subject of a painting purchased by the then Governor of Victoria, Sir Dallas Brooks and Lady Brooks in 1962, known as Cookies Farm. The Brooks became Mr Horsfield’s first vice regal patrons. Mr Horsfield’s works are widely represented in both local and overseas corporate and private collections. His paintings in both oil and watercolour have won numerous awards during his long and prodigious career. He is looking forward to the Inverloch Art Show and meeting many old friends.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 23

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Leongatha school memoirs penned THIS is not your typical school history book.

From Inkwell To Internet: A Century f State Secondary Education in Leongatha is the title of the book written for the Leongatha Secondary College centenary celebrations which will be held on April 28 and 29. The book details the history of Leongatha High School, Leongatha Technical School and Leongatha Secondary College and tells those stories which give us a greater insight into the educational journey taken by the youth of our region over the past century. Author and local historian Lyn Skillern said there is a chapter for each decade detailing the developments of the time and the major events that occurred. “Leongatha High School has eight chapters, Leongatha Technical School two chapters and Leongatha Secondary College two chapters,” she said. “The introduction details the development of state education, especially sec-

ondary education with some reference to developments in the late 1890s and early 1900s. The other chapters tell us about the events and people that made the schools unique.” In the back of the book the authors have tried to name all the students and staff from the three schools as well as school council officials, school captains and house captains. The authors are all past teachers; Ms Skillern wrote the introduction and high school section, Clive Lynn and Ian Snell the technical school chapters and Gaye Hutchinson the secondary college chapters. The book was designed by Joanne Marchese (Rowlands), a past student and edited by Kyra Bae Snell, also a past student. Many past students have contributed to the book by writing their own stories and Ms Skillern said there is “something special in every chapter”. The book will be available at the reunion and can be ordered before.

Back then: Mardan Hall was a popular venue in the 1920s.

Mardan to mark hall centenary THE South Gippsland farming district of Mardan is making plans to celebrate the centenary of the local hall. Built in 1912, the hall has been used for meetings, weddings, family dances, balls, special birthdays and anniversaries. During the war years, the hall was the place to farewell and welcome home local soldiers. It has also been used as a library and for sporting activities including roller skating, badminton and indoor bowls.

School history: From Inkwell To Internet: A century of State Secondary Education in Leongatha will be available to buy at the Leongatha Secondary College reunion.

A RECORD $30,000 was raised at the 2011 Bass Coast Mayoral Charity Ball held last October. With financial accounting for the ball completed, Bass Coast mayor, Cr Veronica Dowman, presented the proceeds to the Bass Coast Community Foundation chairman Alan Brown, at their meeting recently. Cr Dowman said she was proud the ball raised a record $30,000 in support of the Bass Coast Community Foundation. “When you add this $30,000 to the total amount raised for the foundation in the past eight years, the Charity Ball has made a total contribution of $120,000,” she said. “The success of the Mayoral Charity Ball relies on the support of our community and generosity of our corporate sponsors and I am overwhelmed and grateful for their support.” The 2011 Mayoral Charity Ball had several levels of sponsorship, with 23 different businesses and organisations supporting the event. Mr Brown said the $30,000 from the ball was a stellar outcome which exceeded everyone’s expectations. “The money the foundation receives each year from the proceeds of the Mayoral Ball has underwritten much of the foundation’s success over the past eight years. We would not have achieved anywhere near as much in addressing areas of disadvantage in Bass Coast had it not been for the fantastic support given by council and the people who attend the ball each year,” he said. “We are most grateful to the mayor and councillors for their ongoing support which is vital to the success of Ball a great success: Bass Coast Shire Council the foundation. I also acknowledge the numerous sponmayor, Cr Veronica Dowman hands over the May- sors who supported the ball in record numbers last year, oral Charity Ball cheque for $30,000 to Bass Coast and the volunteers who donate their time to ensure the Community Foundation chairman Alan Brown. ball is run for a minimal cost.”

New doctors in Wonthaggi

Dr Yashar Zadeh and Dr Natalia Charsionok are among some 20 new doctors who will work in medical practices across Gippsland this year, as part of the program run in this region by Southern GP Training. Southern GP Training’s director of training Dr James Brown said it was wonderful that doctors had chosen Gippsland for their GP registrar train-

Mayor’s message Cr Veronica Dowman

Ball raises $30,000 for charity

TWO new doctors are now working in the Wonthaggi Medical Group after moving to Gippsland to undertake specialist training in general practice medicine with Southern GP Training.

People are invited to gather at the hall on the afternoon and/or evening of Saturday, October 27 to reminisce and catch up with family and friends. The centenary committee is currently looking for names and addresses of former residents of Mardan to invite them to the celebrations. If anyone has any photos to share they would love to hear from you. The committee wants as many as possible to participate so they are asking you to register your interest (especially to assist with catering) and pass on this information to others who may be interested.

ing location. “The benefit to the region is that we obtain more doctors to work in medical practices, while the doctors themselves are exposed to the broad experience and lifestyle choices that country practice provides,” he said. A registrar is a qualified doctor who has chosen to specialise in general practice. They undertake further study and practical training on the path towards obtaining their Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) or Fellowship of the Australian College of Remote and Rural Medicine (ACRRM), which is the requirement for vocational registration as a

general practitioner. Once the doctors have achieved their fellowship, it means they are fully fledged GPs who are able to work in their own practice. Under the Southern GP Training program, they undertake their last two or three years of training in an established medical practice and/or hospital setting. The doctors are placed in accredited training practices right across Gippsland – east, south, central and west – where they put the finishing touches to their general practice skills. More than 200 doctors have worked in Gippsland since the program began in 2001.

THE main event for Clean Up Australia Day was held last Sunday right across Australia. I’m proud to say that members of the Bass Coast Community were out doing their fair share of keeping our open spaces free of litter. For the Sunday event, 15 Clean Up sites were registered by individuals and groups. These were in Wonthaggi, Coronet Bay, Corinella, Smiths Beach, Newhaven, Cowes and Kilcunda. Some of these locations had more than one Clean Up site. I want to thank all of the volunteers who attended on the day and pitched in to collect the debris left behind by other people. Before the event, each group had registered parks, ovals and reserves

as the Clean Up ‘hot spot’ in their community that they worked at on Sunday. By registering early, the groups received a Clean Up Kit that gave them rubbish and recycling bags, gloves and other equipment for use on the day. Council also supported each site by collecting the bags of waste and recyclables from the registered Clean Up sites. While the efforts of everyone involved are acknolwedged, unfortunately litter prevention is not just an issue for council on one day of the year. Illegal dumping of rubbish and littering is addressed year round with combined efforts of council’s litter prevention officer, members of the waste services team and council’s rangers. Council is researching more about where the litter ‘hot spots’ are right across the shire.

This research will be used by the litter prevention officer to lead council’s work towards eliminating the behaviours of people who dump rubbish and litter at these sites. There were 7215 clean up sites registered across Australia this year, which is a great effort. In the lead up to Sunday, March 4, there was also a Business Clean Up Day and a Schools Clean Up Day. Clean Up Australia Day was a great success and it makes me think, wouldn’t it be wonderful if we didn’t have to pick up after other people? But while we still do, I am very grateful to everyone who participated in all of the local Clean Up Australia events. Cr Veronica Dowman, mayor.

Vets aplenty in country By Tessa Hayward THE number of students graduating from veterinary schools in Australia is increasing, however some veterinary practices have had some problems finding experienced cattle vets. Australia now has seven veterinary schools and about 1000 veterinarians will graduate per year from 2012. Although local veterinary practices in Leongatha and Wonthaggi have not had a problem attracting graduates, the Australian Veterinary Association is concerned rural practices can be extremely demanding for new veterinarians. “We took on five graduates last year and they all now have a year’s experience under their belt,” Tarwin Veterinary Group Practice manager Barbara Dell said. “However, we have had trouble getting experienced cattle vets. I do not know

where they go once they are experienced; perhaps they venture overseas.” Ms Dell said when looking for experienced vets, the clinic tries to offer what the vet wants. Many veterinarians choose metropolitan practice to secure adequate remuneration to pay off the debt they carry at the completion of the veterinary degree. Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Phillip Island’s Veterinary Clinics partner Tony Gedye said they have not had any major rural vet shortages. “Applications have been very forthcoming when job applications are published,” he said. Mr Gedye did not think there was a shortage of graduates as there are two places in Victoria to study: Melbourne University and Charles Sturt University. “It isn’t about the amount of vets; it’s about where they want to live,” he said.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 25

Where to Show Your RACV Card & Save in Leongatha. Leongatha Beaurepaires

Stadium 4 Cinema

O’Donnell Optical

14 Anderson St, Leongatha 03 5662 2371 10% off Dunlop, Goodyear & Sava car, 4WD and light truck tyres, car and 4WD wheel alignments, and any set of 4 tyre and wheel packages*

14-18 Smith St, Leongatha 03 5662 5762 See a movie for just $11.50 any Tuesday*

101 Graham St, Wonthaggi 03 5672 2977 2/74 Chapel St, Cowes 03 5952 5771 20% off all products

*Not available with any other offers and discount applies off the best negotiated price.

Carino’s Café & Wine Bar

*Not valid for 3D ﬁlms, special events or in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Not valid on public holidays. Not valid for ﬁlms advertised as no free tickets during school holidays. Offer valid for one discount per membership. Please visit www.stadiumcinema.com.au.

Toyworld

4-18 Smith St, Leongatha 03 5662 2366 10% off the total food bill*

19 Bair St, Leongatha 03 5662 3315 10% off*

*Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Offer valid for one discount per membership.

*Excludes outdoor play equipment, bikes and Lego.

Classic Car Rentals 7 Leslie Crt, Leongatha 03 5662 0900 10% off weekend rates* *Eligible drivers, full licence and credit card payment.

Nearby Areas A Maze’ N Things 1805 Phillip Island Rd, Cowes 03 5952 2283 10% off any admission ticket*

Great Southern Outdoors

*Not to be used with any other offer.

1 Bair St, Leongatha 03 5662 2615 10% off storewide

Inverloch Boat Charters

Lucinda Estate 108 Parr St, Leongatha 0417 337 270 10% discount off wine purchases at cellar door* 15% discount off wine purchases of 12 bottles or more at cellar door* *Not in conjunction with any other discounts or promotion.

Lulu Clothing & Cosmetics 14 McCartin St, Leongatha 03 5662 2272 10% discount* *Excludes sale items and footwear.

Lot 2 Treadwells Rd, Inverloch 03 5674 5588 10% discount

Koonwarra Foodstore & Emporium Cnr Koala Dve & Sth Gippsland Hwy, Koonwarra 03 5664 2285 One complimentary tea or coffee with any bottled produce purchase over $50 and 10% discount on any purchase over $100

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory 930 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven 03 5956 6600 25% off admission to Pannys Amazing World of Chocolates* *Applies to full price admission only. No other discounts apply.

RACV Inverloch Resort 70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Rd, Inverloch 03 5674 0000 RACV members save at least 20% on regular accommodation rates year round at RACV Inverloch Resort

Rhyll Trout & Bush Tucker Farm 36 Rhyll-Newhaven Rd, Rhyll 03 5956 925 10% off admission and rod hire* *Not valid with any other offer.

Scotts Clothing 10 A’Beckett St, Inverloch 03 5674 3355 10% discount

Toyworld 62/64 McBride Ave, Wonthaggi 03 5672 376 10% off* *Excludes outdoor play equipment, bikes and Lego.

La Bella Gifts & Homewares

Wildlife Coast Cruises

140 Graham St, Wonthaggi 03 5672 4812 10% off jewellery, giftware, homeware and clothing*

Departs Cowes jetty 1300 763 739 20% off full priced adult and child prices*

*Excludes sale items.

*Offer only valid for Seal and Twilight cruises only. Not to be used with any other offer.

Windy Ridge Vineyard & Winery 527 Fish Creek-Foster Rd, Foster 03 5682 2035 10% discount at cellar door* *6 bottle minimum, Not valid with any other offers.

When you’re a member of RACV you automatically have access to one of the world’s largest member beneﬁt programs – Show Your Card & Save. By simply showing your RACV card at a variety of partner organisations, you will receive discounts and special offers every day. Here are just some of the places you can save around your area. There are many more places where you can save in Inverloch, Leongatha, Phillip Island, Wonthaggi and other nearby areas. For a full list of partners, please refer to the brochure available at the RACV Wonthaggi Shop or visit racv.com.au/sycas

For more information visit the RACV Wonthaggi Shop or racv.com.au/sycas

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

English fall in love with Prom THE magnificent Wilsons Promontory was an international highlight of a recent two day visit by 10 of the United Kingdom’s most influential tourism product mangers. Product managers are highly influential travel specialists who decide what operator and destination content appears in overseas travel brochures. The managers represented some of the UK’s largest wholesale travel groups including STA Travel, Bridge the World and Stella Travel Services. Gippsland’s regional tourism body, Destination Gippsland, along with Tourism Victoria and Parks Victoria, hosted the visit and provided the group with a two day experience of Wilsons Promontory and South Gippsland. The itinerary included a hike to Vereker Outlook, a gourmet barbecue dinner at Tidal River and a tour of South Gippsland’s villages. The group also visited a number of international accommodation providers including Bear Gully Cottages, Limosa Rise and Parks Victoria’s Wilderness Retreats.

Gippsland’s internationally active operators also presented to the group during a two hour networking lunch held at RACV Inverloch Resort. Operators from Lakes Entrance, Metung, Sale and Walhalla jumped on the opportunity to promote Gippsland’s regional tourism message. James Archibald, marketing manager of Destination Gippsland, was delighted with the opportunity to promote Gippsland to the international stage. “The feedback we have received from the product managers has been fantastic. They were very impressed with Gippsland’s nature based offering and the professional approach of our tourism operators,” he said. “It’s important that we continually engage with the international tourism trade and promote Gippsland to the world. The visit offered us a great opportunity to showcase the region.”

Iconic location: the UK visitors ham it up on Wilsons Promontory’s Squeaky Beach.

Rodeo will be back STONY Creek Football Club’s rodeo event was such a success that organiser Neil Cope has already penciled in the next date. The event will be held on January 19 in 2013, with Mr Cope hoping to make it an even bigger event. “We’re hoping to take a look at last year’s event and change a few things around,” he said. “We’ll make sure we can put a few extra events on during the afternoon to keep people around all day.” Events highlighted as possible inclusions were whip-cracking, sheaf tossing and the dog high jump. Mr Cope said he won’t have any trouble gaining sponsors either: “The sponsors we had last year are keen to go again and I’ve already had a few calls from new ones hoping to jump

on board.” And while the event proved successful at Stony Creek, it also had a flow-on effect to other areas, especially other community organisations such as the Meeniyan CFA, which was recently presented with a cheque for $1100. The CFA manned the car park at the rodeo, with member Malcolm Price reporting a busy day. The club is thankful for the opportunity and will spend the money on general upkeep of the station, as well as going to new equipment. The club also thanked Brown and Wigg, who helped with transportation from the car park to the rodeo area. The Meeniyan CFA will be holding a car boot sale on Monday of the Labour Day weekend, March 12 with an 8am start. Funds raised will help with new equipment.

Cheque this out: Stony Creek Football Club’s rodeo event organiser Neil Cope presents Meeniyan CFA members Malcolm Price, Colin Young and Peter Graham with a cheque for $1100 for manning the car-park at the rodeo.

Meals roster (Leongatha) Mary MacKillop College and Leongatha Secondary College (all week), Yooralla and National Bank (Tue), Christian Revival Crusade (Mon, Thur, Fri), and SG Specialist School (Wed) will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning March 12, 2012.

Sustainably minded? Read on IF YOU are one of the growing number of businesses marketing innovative sustainable products or services, then the third annual South Gippsland Sustainability Festival at Coal Creek, Korumburra may be the perfect opportunity to showcase them to a new and receptive audience. Council’s sustainability planner Christine Hamilton is enthusiastically working to make the festival bigger and better than ever, and is currently taking bookings for stands at the festival which will be held on Saturday, April 14, alongside the Coal Creek Farmers’ Market. “We expect to have between 50-60 displays on a wide range of topics,” Ms Hamilton said. “As well, we will have cheese-making demonstrations, speakers’ forums, electric cars on display, children’s activities and a designated Sustainable Home Living Expo to support people considering building or retrofitting their homes. “Another new initiative we will be including this year at the festival is a free, friendly Fix It workshop to repair broken household items. We hear so much about our current ‘throw away society’ and we want to change that thought process,” she said. “I am looking for skilled volunteers who can help us out in: focusing on textiles, woodworking with hand tools and repairing bicycles, dolls, toys, etc. “These are likely to be community members who believe there are better options than sending broken objects on a one-way ticket to landfill, and are happy to share their skills and build public confidence for repairing items that otherwise literally go to waste. “Helping people hem their garment or gain the self-assurance to repair a basic item could make a huge difference to the amount and types of things that are clogging up landfill, dumped on nature strips, or donated broken to op shops who don’t have repair capacity.”

Sizzling Ramp re-opened hot THE ramp onto the

SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has replaced two barbecues at Mirboo North Swimming Pool. The barbecues were condemned in December because of electrical faults. New underground power to the facilities has also been installed. The new facilities provide a great excuse to head down to the pool for a swim and to throw some lamb on the barbie for the whole family.

floating jetty at Toora has been repaired and is now open to the public.

South Gippsland Shire Council confirmed the opening last week.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 27

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

r e h t e g o t s e i Stringing stor

Q&A

Liz Stringer THE SOOTHING sounds i ill once of Liz St Stringer will again captivate crowds at Mossvale Park when she returns to the stage with fellow folk musician Van Walker on Saturday, March 17. The daughter of a retired music teacher and a childhood surrounded by music, it’s no surprise the Melbourne-based musician has turned writing her own lyrics and performing her own arrangements into a career. After being handpicked to support Mia Dyson on her national tour in 2006, Liz hasn’t looked back, playing all around the countryside and headlining her own tour later this year. Star reporter Simone Short spoke to Liz about her stories, inspirations and what she loves about playing at Mossvale Park. You played all the instruments yourself on your last record Tides of Time; how did you first get into music and learn to play? My dad’s really musical; he’s a retired music teacher and he played in bands so it was just around all the time. My two older siblings are really musical as well, and play instruments and sing, so it was just around me growing up. The instrument I learnt was cello, but I play guitar, banjo and piano. Do you use any cello in your own music? I have done. The first two albums I did and I’ve played on a couple of friends’ albums. It’s been a while since I played it regularly, though so I’m a bit of a hack these days! Your music is a blend of folk, country, blues and bluegrass; how would you describe it? Yeah, kind of like that! I guess predominantly it’s folk in a sense that they’re all story based songs; it’s about the writing rather than the arranging. I’ve just finished my fourth album that I’m going to release in April – it’s called Warm In the Darkness and that’s way more kind of poppy, it has a lot of guitar and a horn section and keys. This is way more bombastic than my other stuff for sure! What music did you listen to growing up? Dad used to play a lot of folk music, like the Clancy Brothers and lots of old Irish stuff. Mum was really into Billy Joel, and now I love him. When I got older I got into stuff like Jeff Buckley, and I really liked Oasis. Dad

had a couple of Beach Boys records I listened to. We didn’t really have a lot of contemporary music in my house. My sister’s a classically trained clarinet player so we played a lot of old folk stuff and a lot of church music, even though my family isn’t religious. I used to love pop, like Madonna and Prince. That was my sort of era in the ’80s, which hasn’t really been replicated since. The ’80s produced some amazing pop music. But I wasn’t really up with all the cool bands! You’re a bit of a storyteller when it comes to your lyrics; are they mostly personal stories? It’s predominantly from other people and some stories I just make up. Some are directly biographical, some aren’t; a lot of poetic licence is taken. Sometimes you read something or see something that just sparks a story, and there’s a big pull of inspiration. Have you ever used a friend’s story? The only time I’ve done that is when I wrote a song Lady Luck, from the album Pendulum. It’s a factual story about a friend of mine. I actually rang her and we had a big chat and I wrote down pages and pages of notes; she had one of those complicated lives where she moves around a lot and I wanted to make sure it was chronologically correct. She said it was quite confronting to hear it for the first time, but she said it was also quite cathartic. Was supporting Mia Dyson on tour your big

break in the industry? I’ve never really toured and Mia really took a punt in taking us around the country because no one really knew who we were. That was huge for me. When I was touring with Mia, I thought this was a cool thing to do, but I never thought of doing music for a living. It’s got to the point where I’m playing so much it’s just kind of taken over. It’s not a grandiose living, but if you’re touring a lot it’s really hard to keep down another job.You just kind of have to take the leap and do this, but realise if you’re not playing, you won’t have any money and can’t live. You have to make work for yourself. You’ve already played Mossvale Park twice; how did you find the experience? I love it. I know the mob down there quite well and they’re really welcoming. They really look after the artists. I love that it’s just one stage, so everyone’s concentrated on the performers all day; you don’t have to move around. I know as a punter, I go out in the crowd and watch everyone else and it’s such a beautiful environment. I’m really looking forward to it. You’re playing with Van Walker; how do you plan to perform together? We play song for song and accompany each other; we find that works better than just him or me playing separately. There are some similarities, our form is similar, but we are obviously different writers so it works well to have the two complementing each other.

Teaming up: Liz Stringer plays live with Van Walker.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 29

Cows come rocking FROM the streets of Bendigo after a random encounter, to packed out gigs on New Year’s Eve, the boys from Hey Cow are on their way up. They first debuted on the streets of Bendigo as a busking trio in 2010, hoping to squeeze a few dollars out of the tight-pocketed university students that inhabited the pubs and clubs until the early hours of the morning. Despite two of the members only having met that night, and one of the guitarists wielding an Aldi guitar, their first expedition onto the main strip demonstrated an instant connection between the boys, resulting in a healthy profit for the night. Last year saw Hey Cow perform their maiden gig at a Bendigo pub renowned for its live music, the Brian Boru Hotel. After securing a number of acoustic gigs at various venues, including the hosting of a number of birthday celebrations, the band decided it was time to introduce a drummer. Full of confidence, the boys took on their biggest gig on arguably the biggest

night of the year, New Year’s Eve. In front of a solid crowd, Hey Cow owned the stage and the party, with many praises coming from the crowd. In light of this successful gig at the end of a successful year, Ryan, Sean, Dermott and Julian look to expand their horizons, hoping to break in the Melbourne scene by the end of 2012. On their way, they’ll be stopping by the Esplanade Hotel in Inverloch for what is going to be a colossal long weekend. Hey Cow will rock the venue this Friday from 9.30pm and on Saturday, DJ Aaron James will make sure no one leaves the dance floor for what is guaranteed to be a big night. With the long weekend bubble not ready to burst quite yet, Sunday night will round off your perfect weekend. DJ DBoy will be spinning the latest tracks and combined with a UV Bubble Party, it’s sure to go off with a pop. You all get to sleep in on Monday, so there’s no excuse to miss this sensational long weekend at the Espy.

Heading south: the boys from Hey Cow are coming from the streets of Bendigo to kick start your long weekend this Friday night at the Esplanade Hotel in Inverloch.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Jazz! Jazz! Jazz! THE Inverloch Jazz Festival continues to attract top quality musicians to its annual event.

The Festival hits Inverloch this Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday with a mix of the finest musicians one has seen in the past 19 years of performances at Inverloch. There are a lot of new bands coming with great credentials which include the well-known GilAskey Big Band and The New Melbourne Jazz Band, sponsored by the RACV Inverloch Resort. They will no doubt be joined by their large group of followers, passionate about the band’s Dixieland music, said festival president Bob Pritchard, who is

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

anticipating the weekend will be well remembered for many years. Many seats are still available at the registration desk at the Inverloch Community Hub. The festival starts at 6pm, Friday, March 9 when the best young performers in the region take to the stage as the South Gippsland Allstars in a free performance. All musicians are part of the South Gippsland secondary college’s music program. Bass Coast Shire Councillor Ross Smith will officially open the festival on Friday night at 7pm in the hub. Be in A’Beckett Street at 10am Saturday for the annual parade featuring floats from Inverloch’s community groups, as well as jazz musicians and the Wonthaggi Citizens Band. Don’t miss the Inverloch Rotary Craft Street Market opposite the hub in A’Beckett Street from 8am to 4pm. Jazz gets holy on Sunday, with music at a combined church service in the hub from 10am to 11am. Food will be available at Warrawee Senior Citizens Club on Saturday and Sunday courtesy of the Inverloch Anglican Ladies. The Lions

Show time: Inverloch Jazz Festival president Bob Pritchard and treasurer Jim Warren are ready for the sound of music this Labour Day long weekend. Club will provide food at the hub on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and the Bars will be open at the RSL and the hub. The Picnic in the Park on Monday will bring live music to The Glade, along with

food, wines, and other chilled assortments with prizes to be won, 11am5pm. Music will be played at all venues until midnight on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Weekend passes are

available at the Hub and on the web site www.inverlochjazzfestival.com as well as from Eventix or Jim on 5674 3406 Go along and “Let the feathers fly”.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 31

Charming vintage home awaits THIS delightful three bedroom home has all the space you need, and is available through Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha. For details see page 32.

PAGE 32 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

What a block! A

DELIGHTFUL 1950s brick veneer home that has been meticulously maintained and sited on a huge 1268m2 corner block. The home is well presented on the block to allow for backyard access for a caravan or boat and has plenty of room for a huge shed. Inside are three good sized bedrooms with built-in robes and ceiling fans in each.

The separate lounge has a lovely rural outlook, as does the kitchen/ dining. The laminate kitchen has an electric stove, range hood and a walk-in pantry. The bathroom has a deep soaking spa bath. Handy to the back door for tradesmen is a large shower room that has a second toilet. Outside is an enormous outdoor entertaining area with built-in bar-

becue space that overlooks the big backyard. Adjoining the outdoor area is a handy sleep-out or bungalow, huge laundry with a third toilet and a single garage providing undercover access inside. For those with multiple vehicles there is also a lock-up shed and a single carport. For those wanting space and affordability, this property ticks all the boxes.

LEONGATHA Location: 148 McCartin Street Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Car spaces: 3 Price: $305,000 Agent: Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha Contact: 5662 5800

Picture perfect A PEACEFUL and quiet lifestyle awaits you on this delightful 1.25 acre property in the country hamlet of Mirboo. Centrally situated to both Mirboo North and Leongatha, this two bedroom home has only recently been completed but allows for the addition of a third bedroom if needed. The open plan invites a relaxed atmosphere through an appealing open fire and also reverse cycle air conditioner. Complementing this area is a well appointed kitchen which extends to a paved, shaded entertainment space creating a large el fresco dining area. Improvements in-

MIRBOO Location: 11 Baines Road Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Price: $265,000 Agent: Stockdale and Leggo, Mirboo North Contact: 5668 1300

clude a large workshop/garage, two large water tanks and a small dam. This is all set amongst a beautifully maintained parkland

garden of oaks birches, maples, olive and various fruit, nut and ornamental trees. This is an outstanding property for anyone

looking for a serene and peaceful lifestyle that the country allows, whilst being part of a small and unique community.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 33

PAGE 34 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Roam freeL at Rohners OOKING for a profitable heavy carrying highly productive farm?

Then this could be just what you are after. Located within 15 minutes drive of Leongatha in the Hallston area, this 434 acre property is divided into six main paddocks. It is hill country with some undulating flatter land of which they annually cut hay off. Rohners is a very viable property and is currently carrying 200 cows and calves. Water is excellent, supplied by at least one dam in each paddock, plus there is a semi permanent creek that runs along the property. The property is well fenced and tracked with access via a track to most paddocks, there is a two stand shearing shed in good order, stockyards, hay and large machinery shed. A basic four bedroom home sits in a commanding location overlooking the property. Rohners is a highly affordable productive grazing/fattening property in renowned South Gippsland within 18km of Leongatha and only two hours from Melbourne.

HALLSTON Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 1 Land size: 434 acres Price: $3200 per acre Agent: Elders Real Estate, Leongatha Contact: Zel Svenson on 0438 636 290

PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT janine pepyat

0409 292 808

LEONGATHA

MIRBOO NORTH

INSPECT Sat 11-11.30am

INSPECT Sat 12-12.30pm

Contact Janine for a FREE appraisal

MIRBOO NORTH INSPECT Sun 10-10.30am

kaz hughes

0417 516 998

ACT Corner The Market Inspiring Renovated Retro R this csurprise lled package Perfectly positioned, on a corner allotment With all the boxes An inspirational renovation converts this 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eticked, e D n N a Fully renovated with side street access & subdivisional potential, classic into a modern day delight. New kitchen, Cneeds. suit an array of home will U n e Op2 living areas, 4 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms, this home has high ceilings, good size rooms bathroom & laundry. 3BRs (king size main), TRER! Just like ke new: only yCBE BETT BETTER! TTER ONTT ! nty of parking space. and plenty

including 3 big bedrooms.

12 Greenwood enwood Parade

40 Baromi Road

54 Baromi Road

$385,000

MIRBOO NORTH

$225,000 - $250,000

$250,000 - $275,000

MIRBOO NORTH

INSPECT Sun 11-11.30am

Botanical Acre on the Golf Course Directly opposite the 14th tee of the picturesque Mirboo North Golf Club, this 2 bedroom log cabin is sited on its own level, botanical acre. Double carport, workshop. 2 Galvins Road $320,000

MIRBOO NORTH INSPECT Sat 10-10.30am

allen bartlett

0417 274 624

NEW

NEW LISTING

PRIC

Classic Charm, Current Comfort

Easy living on the Golf Links

Horse Haven on 18 Acres

Nest, Restt or Invest

In a cottage garden setting near schools & shops, this tastefully renovated 4BR (+ study) Victorian home combines period elegance with modern-day comforts. 14 Giles Street $350,000 - $370,000

North facing residence in an exotic-treed environment, with direct access through your rear fence to the 2nd fairway of the renowned Mirboo North Golf Club. 3 bedrooms. 27 Golf Links Drive $290,000 - $320,000

Does your wishlist include privacy, views, huge house, self-contained accom. for guests/family, potential for B&B (STCA), plus mĂŠnage, round yard, stables, ample water, sealed road frontage? 3785 Grand Ridge Road $640,000 - $670,000

Perfect for investors looking for a 3BR lowmaintenance property offering approx $260/ wk return. Owner-occupiers will appreciate the privacy, level gardens, dbl garage & carport. 54 Grand Ridge West $235,000 - $260,000

Mirboo Nth

5668 1660

www.promcountryre.com.au Prom Country

@fnpromcountry

5662 3100

lisa williams

0438 133 385

Leongatha

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 35

HALLSTON

MIRBOO NORTH

INSPECT Sun 12-12.30pm

INSPECT Sat 1-1.30pm

NEW

NEW LISTING

PRIC

Family Friendly AND Fashionable in Farmer

On the Grand Ridge ge Tourist Tourist Road â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a gentle 14 a acre haven

This fashionable residence in Farmer Street is perfect for the kids to walk to school and has a large, level rear lawn for fantastic play space. The interior has plenty of space too, with higher % ' * + study. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2 bathrooms, wood heater and s/s air, ducted vacuum, and huge north facing, timber decked outdoor entertaining, a double garage and 2 bay shed.Yes, something for everyone.

With a modern young sandstone home thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been custom-made for â&#x20AC;&#x153;easy livingâ&#x20AC;?, an easily accessible 14 acres thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kind to horses, and a quiet and secluded setting just 12 minutes from Leongathaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s township, you could quite easily believe that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found paradise! Three bedrooms plus large study, two separate living areas, beautiful plantings and a stunning red earth backdrop plus dam, shedding, and all on a bitumen road.

13 Farmer Street

2450 Grand Ridge Road

$290,000 - $310,000

$490,000 - $525,000

LEONGATHA

LEONGATHA INSPECT Sat 12-12.30pm

INSPECT Thu 6.30-7pm & Sat 11-11.30am

kaz hughes

0417 516 998

NEW

PRIC

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Funky Townâ&#x20AC;? Resort ortt H House! ouse! Stunning, concrete rendered, brick example of a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;70s special. Featuring living areas oriented towards a north-east facing balcony overlooking a dazzling inground pool, a renovated kitchen # $ $ # and three upstairs bedrooms all with robes (main with direct balcony access). Lower level living room, large laundry, gas ducted heating, 2 aircons, wood heater. 29 Blackmore Avenue

NEW LISTING

$310,000 - $340,000

LEONGATHA allen bartlett

0417 274 624

NEW

PRIC

B-I-G living spaces â&#x20AC;Ś on the schools side of the highway

Walk Ride Run Trot Scoot! And Cute to Boot!

New blocks of land are NOT available so close to the shops, so if that is important to you, this " building! Four bedrooms all with robes (ensuite & WIR to main), big lounge and dining, massive family room adjoining good kitchen, two decent bathrooms, double carport PLUS a 3 bay shed, all add up to big value. Potential to update if you like, but very comfortable, and liveable, right now!

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.

6 James Court

18 Greenwood Parade

$290,000 - $320,000

LEONGATHA

$225,000 - $235,000

LEONGATHA

INSPECT Sun 1-1.30pm

INSPECT Sun 12-12.30pm

lisa williams

0438 133 385

NEW LISTING

janine pepyat

0409 292 808

Be still, my beating heart!

Elusive Town Acre - Quadruple Garage, Four Bedrooms!

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!

Highly appealing property. Elegantly light and bright, with soaring ceilings, separate entry, & a focus on plenty of glass to bring the outdoors in! A big attraction is the quadruple sized garage with direct internal access. Roomy kitchen with breakfast bar & garden window, sitting room with wood heater, generous lounge & dining, four bedrooms (or three plus decent study), ensuite. Features level access, split system, rendered brick. Mostly lawn and trees, with northerly orientation.

63 Roughead Street

3a Sawyer Street

Mirboo Nth

$465,000 - $485,000

5668 1660

www.promcountryre.com.au Prom Country

@fnpromcountry

$425,000 - $450,000

5662 3100

Leongatha

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Old-world charm, new-world comforts E

SCAPE into a world of your own beyond the white picket fence and tranquil cottage garden. The leadlight front door gives a hint of the charm of yesteryear that you will discover on entering. Polished floorboards, high Baltic pine ceilings, cast-iron fireplaces and traditional bathrooms all create an ambience of charm and elegance. There are four good-sized bed-

rooms (master with en suite) plus a study which could double as a nursery or sewing room. A sympathetic extension incorporating timber floors and dado panelling provides for contemporary open-plan living at the rear. The kitchen has all the appointments you’d expect, with plenty of cupboards and bench space, stainless steel appliances and dishwasher, all overlooking a light-filled dining area which in turn spills onto a private

barbecue/entertaining/play deck. Other creature comforts include a large open fireplace in the living room, and ducted heating. As well as the colourful plantings, there are flat lawned areas and a double carport. To complete this perfect package, the property is within a short walking distance of schools and shop, yet feels like a world away. Inspect at advertised open times or by appointment.

MIRBOO NORTH Location: 14 Giles Street Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2 Price: $350,000$370,000 Agent: Prom Country First National Contact: Lisa Williams on 0438 133 385

Nest, rest or invest H

ANDY to the bowling club and schools, this solid brick veneer home has lots to offer owner-occupiers and investors alike.

The astute investor will recognise the benefits of low-maintenance brick construction and aluminium windows whilst appreciating that an estimated $260 per week rental amount is a good return on investment. Appealing to both owner-occupiers and potential tenants is the open-plan living zone in neutral tones with a spacious living room, meals area and kitchen complete with dishwasher, corner pantry and plenty of cupboards and food-prep space. The meals area opens onto a small private undercover courtyard/fernery, perfect for summer breakfasts. There are three bedrooms, all with built-in robes, and the central bathroom has a separate shower and a deep bath. The ‘convenience’ is conveniently located off the laundry, preventing potential queues for the bathroom. Other features include brand new vinyl flooring in wet areas, electric heating,

and ceiling fans in living rooms. Outside the features continue. There is a double lockup garage/workshop with concrete floor, power and lights, and a roof that spans the distance between garage and house; you’ll never get wet again bringing the groceries inside. This space underneath also doubles as a carport (for two more cars), or barbecue/entertaining area. The gardens are beautifully maintained and feature flat lawned areas, screening shrubs, mulched flower beds and ferns. The rear garden is very private, and is fenced securely for small dogs. Three garden sheds provide extra storage space or maybe you could turn one into a chook haven. If you’re an owner-occupier (younger and nesting, older and resting, or somewhere in between), you’ll appreciate the privacy, level gardens, proximity to services, the low maintenance nature, plus the comfort factor of the home. If you’re an investor, you’ll know that these aspects will attract a suitable tenant. We recommend your inspection.

MIRBOO NORTH Location: 54 Grand Ridge West Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 Price: $235,000$260,000 Agent: Prom Country First National Contact: Lisa Williams on 0438 133 385

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 37

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Prom Coast Holiday Lodge S

ET on 10 beautiful acres, this outstanding holiday lodge located just minutes drive from the beautiful beach of Waratah Bay is dressed to impress. The accommodation on offer is three independent self contained cottages (Cottages 1 and 2 - six berth and cottage 3 - four berth)

which are constructed using classic red brick externally and open plan with solid timber floors inside, with a nice mix of modern décor and come complete with spa and wood fire. The lodge, which sleeps up to 20 people, is central on the property and is suited to a variety of uses including group bookings or for large or small function hire.

The property also includes a central in-ground solar heated swimming pool, manicured gardens and a three bedroom plus office manager’s residence and shedding. This property is located near Wilsons Promontory National Park and only a five minute drive to Waratah Bay and Sandy Point. Council permit for an additional lodge is in place. Call Alex Scott and Staff Leongatha on 5662 0922 today for more details.

WARATAH NORTH Location: 1075 Waratah Road Bedrooms: 15 Bathrooms: 7 Price: $1,470,000 Agent: Alex Scott and Staff, Leongatha Contact: 5662 0922

Seaside triple treat N

ESTLED on three acres and including a three bay shed with stunning water you’ll t views, i ’ll wantt to t turn t this haven into your home. This delightful property includes four bedrooms, the main

with an en suite and walk-in robe. A feature of the home is the modern sunny kitchen, and slab heating keeps it cosy in all seasons. You can relax in your very own swimming pool just off the verandah, while stunning views of the

INVERLOCH Location: 93 Albert Ruttle Drive Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Agent: Alex Scott and Staff, Inverloch Contact: Melanie Playdon on 0402 734 766 or 5674 1111

ocean from the lounge room will make it the perfect retreat. For the outdoor lover, there are lovely lawn areas through the treed block, fruit trees and vegie garden, as well as a large dam with pressure pump.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 39

Show it off IF you’re proud of a vehicle you have, whyy not show it off? Leongatha’s Leongat tha’s Show ‘n’ Shine and Swap Meet (this S unday March 11) is the best Sunday, place to show off your vehicle and it may even win a prize. With prizes for classic, custom and veteran cars as well as caravans, trucks, motor-homes and go-karts there are plenty of trophies up for grabs at the Leongatha Rotary Club event. “It’s our sixth Show and Shine, and what is pleasing is that our event now has credibility with the car enthusiasts and the swap meet community,” organiser John O’Connor said. “We really have found over the last few years that our gate has lifted fairly quickly and we’re pleased to say we now know we’re running a very successful event.” Last year was the first time the swap meet had run with the Show ‘n’ Shine, and since it was so popular, the combination is running again. The day is about fun for the whole family as well, with a jumping castle, fairy floss and some face painting for the kids, plus more. “We have a very talented Rotarian, Harry Leggett, who has the ability to do caricatures; he’s going to be doing them for $10,” Mr O’Connor said. “We’re also going to have the SES there demonstrating some of their equipment, which will be interesting for the public to see. They’ll be cutting up a bit of a car which will be a great display for the public.” Live music and dancing will add to the atmosphere. “Rock and roll and country and west-

ern music go beautifully with the type of clientele that comes along to our event and we’ve got Trevor Dennis, who is a great entertainer and a former Inverloch identity,” Mr O’Connor said. “We’ve got a dance floor that will be there because two years ago we had some impromptu dancing on the grass, so we’ve decided to encourage that and put a dance floor down. “We know that the local rock and roll people are planning to turn up in numbers and make the most of the music and the dance floor, which will be very entertaining for the public and the kids.” Rotary will be there with food and drinks as always, along with coffee as well. “We’ll start setting up for the day about 6am and the cars will start rolling in about 7am,” Mr O’Connor said. “Something we will see a lift in will be the amount of trucks that we have there, and they’re going to be in a different location. “They will have to go in the very bottom gate and come around the other side of the oval near the netball courts.” Local car enthusiasts who are all looking forward to the sixth annual Show ‘n’ Shine include John Mackie and his 1961 Ford Falcon Ute; Vin Slee with his 1940 Oldsmobile; Bob Bentley with his 1950 Pontiac and Jim McNiven with his 2004 Jaguar XKR. Col Watt and his 1972 Corvette will also be making an appearance along with many other local favourites. If you want to put something on show or run a stall at the swap meet, just turn up early at the Leongatha Velodrome.

On show: Col Watt will have his 1972 Corvette on display at the Leongatha Rotary Show ‘n’ Shine and Swap Meet.

Local enthusiasts: Jim McNiven, Bob Bentley, Vin Slee and John Mackie are all looking forward to having their cars on show at the Show ‘n’ Shine.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 41

FASHIO FASHIONS FASH IONS NS on the h Field feature event Fiel Fi eldd is a ffea eatu ture re eeve vent nt of tthis hiss ye hi year year’s ar’ss S Stony tony to ny Creek Cup and Influence on Dusk is one of the major sponsors.

Looking good: Judy Stone from Influence on Dusk showcases her fabulous range.

Judy Stone, from Influence on Dusk in Leongatha, hopes to see fashion that is “appropriate for the day and that works well as a whole outfit”. This cup day will be all about bright colours Judy says, but colours like

colours are in

THIS year’s autumn racing carnival is all about natural, bold colours including oranges, beiges, mustards and animal prints. Shoes in exciting colours with big heels are always in fashion, of which LC Excessorise, Leongatha, has a great selection. A hat may no longer be a staple of a race-going ensemble, however headwear is still a necessary addition to any outfit. LC Excessorise has an impressive range of beautiful fascinators in a variety of colours and styles. A handbag is an important part of race day attire. Choose something large, a smaller shoulder bag or a handy clutch. Every girl dressing up for the races needs that special finishing touch to bring an outfit together. Accessories, such as sparkly earrings, chunky bracelets, pretty necklaces and cool sunglasses are just the thing. LC Excessorise still has some end of season bargains, including $10 shoes, $15 sunglasses and $5 jewellery (selected Looking good: LC Excessorise employee Sue Cook is ready to hit the race track. items only).

copper, mustard and cobalt may also make their appearance. Headwear always plays a major part in race day

fashion; however Judy says the trend is moving away from hats and more towards fascinators. Fifties glamour is shap-

ing up to be a big fashion influence this year and Judy expects lace and pearls to be big this coming racing season.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

• Music for the People at Mossvale Park, Berrys Creek. • South Gippsland Liberals function, Leongatha RSL. • Breaky on the Bridge event at Meeniyan.

Happy campers: Alexandra Scott, Eleanor Scott and Alex Wildes were happy to sample the CWA’s fine breakfast fare at the Breaky on the Bridge event at Meeniyan.

Politically minded: Valmai Goller, Joy Hoy and Lyn Burchell, all of Leongatha, were keen to hear MPs Russell Broadbent and Gary Blackwood speak at the Liberals function in Leongatha.

Dr Cool: the good Dr Ron Murley is a master with the double bass. He was warming up to jam with the Brown’s Cows Orchestra at Mossvale.

Right notes: soprano Veronica Iredale wooed the crowd at Music for the People at Mossvale Park. Photo: Ken Fraser.

Good Samaritans: Meeniyan CWA’s Sandra Shields, Julie Shields and Jenny Rich were part of the team at the Meeniyan CWA’s Breaky on the Bridge event to mark the Year of the Farmer.

Loving it: Lindsay Powney, John Canning, Robyn Powney and Heather Canning were blown away by the superlative performance of the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band. Helping hand: Heather Scott, Marion Dewar and Faye Bland were cool despite the intense heat at Meeniyan.

Sounding good: South Gippsland Shire Brass Band musicians Therese Chandrasegaran and Malcolm Garth entertained the Mossvale crowd.

Leading example: Craig Marinus of the Wonthaggi Citizens’ Band took a break from conducting to play at Mossvale.

Thank you: conductor Gerald Keuneman showed his appreciation for soprano Veronica Iredale and tenor Daniel Mottau. Photo: Ken Fraser.

Supporting Liberals: Margaret Stokes of Leongatha, Sylvia O’Connor of Korumburra, Elsie McBride of Leongatha and Betty Clark of Toora at the Liberals function.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 43

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

A loved one seems almost too easy to please, but there’s no cause for alarm. A friend shares some good news that involves you indirectly. Any friction among workmates should end abruptly. TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

Some frustrating delays are offset by a productive cycle. Romance shows its sentimental side. Self improvement plans are highlighted. GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

Guard words carefully. It’s tempting to divulge information to the wrong parties. Best friends now are of an another generation, and an acquaintance who is trying to be helpful may be a little too helpful. CANCER - June 22 - July 22

Expect to meet several quite different people this week. Best allies now are of the opposite sex. A loved one may misinterpret your intentions. Home improvements may be delayed for a little longer. LEO - July 23 - August 22

Small mix-ups are dotted through the week. Travel ideas may be developing into realities. In romance, a less conservative approach may appeal to your other half. VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

Travel is indicated, with the accent on spontaneity. A family member may be surprisingly stubborn, then suddenly co-operative. The weekend includes touches of glamour, humour and confusion. LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

Distractions can put you behind schedule. You may be re-shuffling plans after the weekend. Your ideas will benefit from refinement. Discoveries around the house could solve an ongoing mystery. SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

Luck is with you but you can’t count on it exclusively. You take on new challenges with great determination. Be careful not to leave projects half completed. SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

Romancewise, this can be an upbeat week. The key is to make the most of all situations. Make an added attempt to simplify your life. CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

Friendships generally are spotlighted, with well established relationships becoming even more important. Detail to work should not be ignored, especially where numbers and dates are involved. AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

There may be a dip in self confidence, but by the weekend you find yourself responding to challenges with renewed zeal. Later in the week could find you involved in a teaching role. PISCES - February 20 - March 20

This is a favourable week for assigning projects to others and assessing your own future prospects. A friend may introduce you to a new hobby that is interesting but unexpectedly costly. BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

When you give your attention to something, you give your all....until another interest comes your way. This trait may prove frustrating to friends, but it keeps you young. Personal relationships and renewed compliments are spotlighted. Educational interests continue to expand.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8315

Church Times ANGLICAN: Wednesday, March 7: 9.30am Woorayl Lodge HC; 10.15am Koorooman House HC; 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Sunday, March 11: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Exploring Worship; 10.30am Union Church, Tarwin Lower HC. Tuesday, March 13: 7pm St Andrew’s, Dumbalk / St David’s, Meeniyan Fellowship. ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am. ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am. ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion. CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984. 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 11, 10am (HC). Mirboo North: 9.30am. Meeniyan: 10am. Wonthaggi: Sunday 9.30am, Family Service, all welcome. Inverloch: Sunday 11am: Korumburra: Sunday, 9.30am: Rev. Pastors Gavin and Sue Sharp, 5655 1997. Arawata: 11.30am 1st & 3rd Sundays. Kongwak: 11.30am 4th Sunday. BAPTIST CHURCH KORUMBURRA: 39 Mine Rd, Korumburra. Service and Sunday School 10.30am. Pastor Ian Wilkinson. Phone 5658 1366. BAPTIST CHURCH WONTHAGGI: Cnr McBride & Broome Crescent, Wonthaggi. Morning Service & Children’s Activities, Sunday 10am. Weekly activities see www. wonbaptist.org.au, Pastor Geoff Pegler 5672 4769. MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Sunday, 10am: Meeniyan Youth Club Hall. COMBINED CHURCHES WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH: 4th Sunday each month at 7pm. SCOTS PIONEER CHURCH: Mardan South. Pleasant Sunday Afternoons on the last Sunday of each month at 2pm. See occasional ad in this paper for details. For enquiries phone 9853 6627. FISH CREEK UNION CHURCH: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 9am; 2nd & 4th Sundays, 7pm. Contacts: Fran Grimes 5683 2650, Sue Poletti 5663 6325.

6. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 16. 20. 22. 23. 24. 25.

ACROSS Fly (10) Sour (4) Shuffle (4) Previous (5) Tariff (4) Penniless (9) Fruit (9) See (4) Stand (5) List (4) Journey (4) Incapacitated (10)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 13. 14. 15. 17. 18. 19. 21.

DOWN Fish (6) Let-up (7) Darling (6) Severe (6) Centre (5) Meadow (5) Vase (3) Bird (7) Reject (5) Interior (6) Join up (6) Missive (6) Unenthusiastic (5)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8315 ACROSS 6. Goodness, it’s the ambassador! (10). 8. Many take tea out (at five instead of four?) (4). 9. Drop and come apart (4). 10. Put round about fifty inside for the dog (5). 11. Time to go back, too (4). 12. Hoard shares? (9). 16. Remind you - that you’ve invited someone to call? (4,1,4). 20. He starts the recital very shakily (4). 22. Go away, Bunny! (3,2). 23. The F, A or M in “fame”? (4). 24. Said it’s the entire cavity (4). 25. Not making any unexpected trips! (4-6). DOWN 1. The size of the old shelter (6). 2. Go over again and sign (7). 3. Make the mistake of taking the students climbing (4,2). 4. Make straight for the hairdresser (6). 5. Point out only one material (5). 7. A seat to put in the sun (5). 13. At home, you say, at a bar (3). 14. Leave a group over (7). 15. The previous head (5). 17. Tell you Scamp is with the boy (6). 18. Send, but escape the consequences of (3,3). 19. The character whose flat you’re occupying? (6). 21. In the cold snow, he’s having a game (5).

Email your stories news@thestar.com.au

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Eldest miners recall days of coal THEY made Wonthaggi the bustling town it is today and recently they gathered to remember the old times.

Former miners at the State Coal Mine enjoyed a reunion at the Wonthaggi Railway Station recently, the place where many of them first stepped off the train and onto Wonthaggi soil. Among those present were the three eldest living miners: Tasman Nichols, Tulio Crestani and Bob Seeber, all still residing in Wonthaggi. Mr Seeber, now aged 95, is the eldest. Born in Bendigo, he began work in that town’s gold mines in 1916 until the outbreak of World War One. He spent two years working for the Allied Council in the Northern Territory mining mica, a material used to insulate electrical appliances. He came to Wonthaggi in 1944 and worked in all three mines. For 18 years, he worked as a contract miner and for several years, also served as secretary of the miners’ union. A back injury resulted in Mr Seeber being

pensioned off early in 1962. He was also president of the committee of the Miners Dispensary founded for the miners. Mr Seeber now lives with his step-son Morris Foon and his wife Val. Mr Nichols was born in Wonthaggi in 1920 and began working at the coal mine at 18. A wheeler, he tended to the pit ponies and worked in all three mines: Kirrak, Western Area and the 20 Shaft Mine. Mr Nichols suffered a back injury caused by a broken skip rope and the spent his last few years at the mine

working in the stables before he was pensioned off in 1968 when the mine closed. Mr Crestani arrived in Australia from Italy in 1951 after a month long trip on the Vivaldi ship. He started working as a scout miner and later as a contract miner with his mate Frank Cimino, now living in Sydney. While working in the 20 Shaft Mine, after drilling and placing explosives, Mr Crestani managed to fill 38 skips in one shift, which at the time was a record amount of coal. Mr Cimino was a wheeler at

the time. If one was prepared to work hard, being a contract miner was a lucrative job as the more skips one filled, the more money one made. At the time, a man had to fill a minimum of three skips per shift to keep his job. Mr Crestani also sustained a back injury after a large piece of coal fell and he was pensioned off just before the mine closed. He also worked in the Western Area and Kirrak mines.

Old favourites: the three eldest surviving miners at the reunion, from left: Tasman Nichols, Tulio Crestani and Bob Seeber.

Where it began: former miner Tulio Crestani (middle, front) with his family. Front: Agnese Crestani and Betty Pupetti. Back: grandson David Harris, daughter Anita Harris, grandson Dean Crestani, grand-daughter Anna Harris, son-in-law John Harris and grand-daughters Andrea and Danielle Crestani.

Together again: miners reunite at the Wonthaggi Railway Station, where newcomers to town stepped off to work in the mines.

Naughty but nice Films explore indigenous life LEONGATHA Lyric Theatre has a treat in store in the presentation of Habeas Corpus, a blissfully funny story about the lustful antics of the middle class British in the 1960s. Is Dr Wicksteed the respected citizen most folks admire? Has his wife been completely faithful to him over the years? Why has Felicity shown up? What’s Sir Percy Shorter got to do with anyone? What has Dr Wicksteed’s

sister, Connie, got to complain about? Does Mrs Swabb, the house-keeper know the full story? What else has been going on with family and acquaintances behind the scenes? You really have to be there to see where it all goes. Come and have a chuckle. Ticket sales are open now from March 7 for shows commencing on March 23 for two weeks. Booking enquiries on the Lyric hotline 5662 3940 or drop into Mushroom Crafts in Leongatha.

Laying law: Mr Purdue (played by Noel Stringer) is shown the ropes by Mrs Swabb the house-keeper (played by Annette O’Shea) in Leongatha Lyric Theatre’s forthcoming production of Habeas Corpus, a hilarious comedy by English playwright Alan Bennett, directed by Jack Millar.

Pothole danger persists THE roads saga continues, with the Foster-Fish Creek Road featuring many dangerous pot holes. Fish Creek resident Sue Price said the road is a disgrace. “It is really bad. Some of the smaller ones have been fixed, but the big ones are still there,” Ms Price said. Most of the potholes are on corners so drivers cannot see vehicles coming in the opposite direction, which can be

dangerous. “You have to drive in the middle of the road to miss some of them and if there was another car, there would be an accident,” Ms Price said. Some of the potholes have been there for about four months, while others only a fortnight. There are hazard signs before the potholes going into Fish Creek but no restrictions on speed. “It is shocking, VicRoads should be ashamed of themselves,” Ms Price said.

DANCERS and music will feature at the opening of this year’s Indigenous Film Festival at Wonthaggi on Friday, March 16. Young local dancers and the Deep Listening Band will perform at 7.30pm, ahead of the screening of the much acclaimed film, The Tall Man, at the Wonthaggi Union Cinema. Studio Phoenix and the Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation have been working in partnership with a group of Aboriginal and nonAboriginal students from Wonthaggi Secondary College and Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College. This group will perform a fusion of contemporary dance and hip hop, and also perform with the Deep Listening Band. The band has produced two CDs and in February this year was featured on the ABC Radio National Program, AWAYE. Its members are indigenous and non-indigenous artists, musicians and educators who compose, perform and tell stories. Dr Laura Brearley, a creative researcher and singer/song-writer, facilitated the formation of the Deep Listening Band and is the author of the Deep Listening Book. Deep listening is a new term for many people. “Deep Listening is present in country, in community, in music, in language,” said Uncle Herb Patten. It is a concept pres-

On stage: the Deep Listening Band will set the scene for the Indigenous Film Festival at Wonthaggi. ent in many Australian Aboriginal languages, and means deep and respectful listening builds community. The Tall Man, to be screened after the musical opening, will shock and challenge many. It is the story of Cameron Doomadgee, who swore at a policeman and 40 minutes later lay dead in a watch-house cell. The film also tells of Christopher Hurley, the police officer who chose to work in some of the toughest communities. Many people will have read about this episode in the newspapers and formed a view of their own, but watching the film will cause them to question whatever conclusions they may have reached. The account in the film explores some aspects which add to those investigated in the book, The Tall Man, by Chloe Hooper. At a recent meeting of the Bass Coast/South Gippsland Reconciliation

Group, members who had seen the film and read the book, agreed the book enhanced the viewing of the film. Audience members may wish to stay and discuss the performance and film with others. If so, they can relax over nibbles, tea and coffee at the venue. Copies of the book will be available at the book table stocked by Readers Feast Bookstore. The festival continues on Saturday, March 17 with Mad Bastards at 2pm, Toomelah at 4.30pm and Murundak, Songs of Freedom at 7pm. Mad Bastards was developed with local Aboriginal communities and tells the story of TJ, the ‘mad bastard’, who sets off across the country to the Kimberley region to find his estranged son. Many of the actors are local and all performances are outstanding. This film will affect you and should not be missed. Toomelah centres on

Daniel, a small 10-yearold boy who dreams of being a gangster. Daniel is played by Daniel Connors who gives an outstanding performance. As the audience enters his community, which is struggling for identity, they will be confronted by what they see, yet this very serious film is also comic. Murundak means ‘alive’ in Woirurrung language and brings together indigenous singers including Archie Roach, the late Ruby Hunter, Bart Willoughby, Dan Sultan, Shellie Morris and Emma Donovan. It is a moving film which follows The Black Arm Band as they sing their song of protest and is an uplifting finish to the festival. Tickets can be bought at the cinema box office. Admission is $10 per film. Enquiries: 0438 661 207. Proceeds support the Catherine Freeman Foundation programs for education and health on Palm Island.

FAMILIES had many options for farm experiences at the recent Foster and District Agricultural Show.

Horses, cattle, art, craft and rides aplenty lured many people to the Foster Recreation Reserve recently, despite the hot weather. The Star was there to capture the action.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 45

More results in Last week’s Star Section F Pony Club Smartest on parade under 10 years - 1st Trinity McInnes, 2nd Casey Jackson; 10-12 years - 1st Matilda Longbottom, 2nd Clay Duke, 3rd Rochelle Storr, 4th Rose Cooke; 13 - 15 years - 1st Adeline Collins, 2nd Ebony Clavarino, 3rd Tayla Faragher and Julia Green; 16 years and over - 1st Katie Lee Zuidema, 2nd Louise Breen.

I’m okay: Sandy Point’s Ayden Wilson may have been thrown by the mechanical bull, but he was not so shaken that he couldn’t give the ‘thumbs up’.

Pony club rider under 10 years - 1st Trinity McInnes, 2nd Casey Jackson; 10-12 years - 1st Matilida Longbottom, 2nd Elli Clavarino, 3rd Rochelle Storr and Tayla Josephs, 4th Rosie Cooke and Clay Duke; 13 to 15 years 1st Alex O’Sullivan, 2nd Adeline Collins, 3rd Julia Green, 4th Ebony Clavarino, 4th Tayla Faragher; 16 years and over - 1st Katie Lee Zuidema, 2nd Sara Van Loon, 3rd R. Whelan, 4th Louse Breen. Champion Pony Club rider - Alex O’Sullivan. Reserve - Matilda Longbottom. Pony club mount 12h and under 13.2h - 1st Elli Clavarino, 2nd Trinity McInnes, 3rd Casey Jackson; 13.2h and under 15h - 1st Adeline Collins, 2nd Matilda Longbottom, 3rd Tayla Josephs, 4th Rochelle Storr; 15h and over - 1st Katie Lee Zuidema, 2nd Rebecca Whelan, 3rd Alex O’Sullivan, 4th Louise Breen. Champion pony club mount - Elli Calvarino. Reserve - Katie Lee Zuidema. Pair of pony club riders 12 years and under - 1st Rochelle Storr and Talya Josephs; over 12 years - 1st Adeline Collins and Ebony Clavarino. CIPC rider under 12 years - 1st Elli Clavarino, 2nd Rochelle Storr; 12 years and under 14 years - 1st Tayla Josephs; 14 years and over - 1st Adeline Collins 2nd Ebony Clavarino, 3rd Louise Breen,4th Tayla Fargher. Champion CIPC rider - Ellie Clavarino. Reserve Adeline Collins. CIPC mount 13h and un-

der 14.2h - 1st Ellie Clavarino; over 14.2h - 1st Rochelle Storr, 2nd Louise Breen, 3rd Adeline Collins. Champion CIPC mount - Rochelle Storr. Reserve Ellie Clavarino. Section G HRCAV Smartest on parade level 1 and 2 - 1st Simone Bruns; level 3 - 1st Libby McDonald, 2nd Sharen Gotts; level 4 and 5 - 1st Margaret Greaves, 2nd Ebonee Zygarlicki. Led exhibit under 15.2h - 1st Libby McDonald, 2nd Simone Brun; over 15.2h - 1st Wendy Whelan, 2nd Ebonee Zygarlicki. Champion led HRCAV exhibit - Libby McDonald. Reserve - Simone Bruns. Ridden mount level 1 and 2 - 1st Simone Bruns; level 3 - 1st Wendy Whelan, 2nd Elinor Hannay; level 4 1st Ebonee Zygarlicki, 2nd Kathryn Taylor; level 5 - 1st Patrisha Tayler, 2nd Grietje Haitsma. Champion ridden HRCAV mount - Ebonee Zygarlicki. Reserve - Simone Bruns. HRCAV rider level 1 & 2 - 1st Elizabeth Bruns, 2nd Libby McDonald; level 3 - 1st Robert Amat, 2nd Renee Reiter; level 4 - 1st Deb Collins, 2nd Julie Barlow; level 5 - 1st Shirley Smith, 2nd Rhonda Jackson. Champion HRCAV rider - Elizabeth Bruns. Reserve champion HRCAV rider Libby McDonald. Mount most suitable for HRCAV level 1 & 2 - 1st

Wild ride: Earl was a little rambunctious as experienced rider Jo Devlin took to the course.

Champion steed: Kerry Burkleigh was a top-notch trainer, with her Shetland pony named champion of the Foster Show.

Cool it: Sandy Point’s Mia and Kim Kemper grabbed a cool drink and some time in the shade as the mercury continued to climb.

A girl and her duck: Buffalo’s Faith Park-Deere had fun meeting the animals.

Simone Bruns; level 3 - 1st Libby McDonald, 2nd Elinor Hannay; level 4 - 1st Robert Amat, 2nd Libby McDonald; level 5 - 1st Kylie Curry, 2nd Elizabeth Pallett. Best educated mount level 1 & 2 - 1st Liz Bruns, 2nd Sharon Gotts; level 3 - 1st Liz Bruns, 2nd Corinne Hodinott; level 4 & 5 - 1st Kylie Curry, 2nd Ebonee Zygarlicki. Champion high point award - Libby McDonald, Reserve - Ebonee Zygarlicki. Section H - Show Jumping Open show jumping contest 1st height 75cm - Junior - 1st E. Clavarino, 2nd A. Collins, 3rd K. Hamilton. Senior - 1st C. Morrison, 2nd A. Rerdon, 3rd M. Hamilton. Open show jumping contest 1st height 90cm - 1st Jo Devlin, 2nd E. Hill, 3rd C. Morrison. Height 1m - 1st A. O’Sullivan, 2nd V. McCathie, 3rd T. Valance. Foster Show open jumping contest 1st height 1.10m - 1st Elly Burton, 2nd V. McCathie, 3rd Y. Morrison. One round stakes - 1st V. Morrison, C. Hodinott, 3rd C. Morrison. Section K - Alpacas Child handler - 1st Tess Vuillermin, 2nd Catelin Hilder, 3rd Emma Fletcher. Spinnable fleece - 1st Luamber Alpacas, 2nd Senga Park Alpacas. Section L - Poultry Best soft feather large Valerie Bragg, best soft feather bantam - Valerie Bragg, best hard feather large - Valerie Bragg, best hard feather bantam - Valerie Bragg, best waterfowl - Valerie Bragg. Best bird in show - Valerie Bragg. Reserve - Valerie Bragg. Best junior exhibit Charlie McInnes. Reserve Angus McInnes. Section M - Garden and Farm Produce John Davies Memorial Trophy - Darren Piasente. Collection of vegetables 1st Terry Josephs, 2nd Darren Piasente. Collection of organic vegetables - 1st Jackie Dargaville, 2nd Terry Josephs. 12 pod green peas - 1st Bev Tyers. 12 green beans 1st Bev Tyers. 12 climbing beans - 1st Darren Piasente, 2nd Jan Taylor. 3 carrots - 1st Darren Piasente, 2nd Bev Tyers. 3 parsnips - 1st Jackie Dargaville. 3 red beet - 1st Jannet Ousely, 2nd Don Nicoll. 2 green cucumbers - 1st Theresa Cicero, 2nd Don Nicoll. 2 apple cucumbers - 1st Theresa Cicero, 2nd Janet Ousley. 1 lettuce - 1st Darren Piasente, 2nd Nan Mackay. 6 radishes - 1st Jannet Ousley, 2nd Darren Piasente. 3 green peppers - 1st Darren Piasente, 2nd Terry Josephs.

3 green tomatoes - 1st Bev Tyers, 2nd Barry Weiss. 3 red tomatoes - 1st Darren Piasente, 2nd Barry Barton. 6 cherry tomatoes - 1st L. O’Connor, 2nd Bev Tyers. 3 brown onions - 1st Jackie Dargaville, 2nd Jannet Ousley. 3 garlic - 1st Jackie Dargaville, 2nd Jannet Ousley. 6 stalks of silverbeet - 1st Darren Piasente, 2nd Nan Mackay. 3 cobs sweet corn 1st Don Nicoll, 2nd Margaret Haycroft. 3 button squash - 1st Bev Tyers. 3 zucchini less than 23cm - 1st Bev Tyers, 2nd Terry Josephs. Best table pumpkin - 1st Jackie Dargaville, 2nd Kate Crowl. Biggest pumpkin - 1st Averil Bilton, 2nd Darren Piasente. 5 potatoes, any variety - 1st Jackie Dargaville, 2nd Kate Crowl. Collection of herbs / edible flowers presented in a vase - 1st Meg Knight, 2nd Terry Josephs. Basket of fruit min 3 varieties - 1st Terry Josephs. 6 stalks of rhubarb - 1st Gill Nicoll, 2nd Don Nicoll. 3 lemons - 1st Margaret Haycroft, 2nd Nan Mackay. 3 pears - 1st Barry Barton. 3 apples, any one variety - 1st Barry Barton, 2nd Barry Barton. 3 nectarines - 1st Denis O’Neill. 6 strawberries - 1st Jannet Ousley, 2nd Bev Tyers. 12 brown hen eggs - 1st Jenny Voros, 2nd Dawn Adams. 12 white hen eggs - 1st Jannet Ousley. 12 bantam eggs - 1st Grace Joy. Children’s section school entries: Collection of vegetables with a recipe - Foster Primary School. Collection of herbs / edible flowers - Foster Primary School. A harvest basket of fruit and vegetables - Foster Primary School. Children’s section - individual: 12 green beans - Hugh Nicoll. 1 lettuce - N. O’Keefe. 3 carrots - 1st George Nicoll, 2nd N. O’Keefe. 5 potatoes N. O’Keefe. Gumboot throwing 7 years & under - 1st Oliver Lemchens, 2nd Jasper Kennedy-Watterson, 3rd Caeleb. 9 years & under - 1st Harrison Garlick, 2nd James Stephenson, 3rd George Nicol. 12 years & under - 1st Courtney Zuidema, 2nd Ashley Cripps. 16 years & under - 1st Mitchell McKellar, 2nd Olivia Mellor, 3rd Zoe Hodgson. Section X - Children Craft: Most creative made with waste and recycled materials under 8 yrs - 1st Tai and Oliver Harrison, equal 2nd Grace Mattingley, Phoebe, Yasmin, Ebony, Amber and Toby; under 12 years - equal 1st Angus Clark, Matthew and Jason; equal 2nd Ebony

Johnson, Rochelle Storr, Amber R., Hugh Nicoll, Ethan Burrow. Novelty placemat under 8 yrs - 1st Erik Gordon, 2nd Holley Rip; under 12 yrs - 1st Margo Bettles, 2nd Hannah Watson. Most creative mask Prepyr 2 - 1st Jaxon Lewis, 2nd Leo Cashmore; yrs 3-4 - 1st Lexi Elmore, 2nd Mickaela Callander; yrs 5-6 - 1st Kiara Leach, 2nd Reece. One craft article boys under 14 - 1st Oliver Lemchens, 2nd David Moss; girls under 14 - 1st Grace Mattingley. Collage of mixed media using natural flora Prep-yr 4 - equal 1st Zali Piasente, Reagan Lewis; equal 2nd Cynthia Neuyen, Mickayla Callander. Decorated hard-boiled egg Prep-yr 2 - 1st Nicholas May, 2nd Tannah Benton; yrs 3-4 - Hannah Watson, 2nd Josie Cockerill; yrs 5-6 - 1st Kira May. Primary school art: Original painting Prep-yr 2 - equal 1st Cooper Smith, Grace Mattingley; equal 2nd Kirra Gange, Darby Hoskins; yrs 3-4 - 1st Lily Lomax, 2nd Lachie Rathjen; yrs 5-6 - 1st Mackie O’Sullivan, 2nd Skye Bastow. Computer graphic design - party invitation yrs 3-4 - 1st Ben Fletcher, 2nd Eryn Beer; book title yrs 5-6 - 1st Chloe Macphail, 2nd Joe Platt. Best handwritten verse yrs 5-6 - 1st Brianna Miles, 2nd Joe Platt. Secondary school art: Original painting yrs 7-8 1st Kim Shaw, 2nd Kristina Stoitse; yrs 9-10 - 1st Chloe Welsh, equal 2nd Kelly Laity, Abbey Hendrie, Hannah Flanders; yrs 11-12 - 2nd Tarni Moore. Cartoons yrs 9-10 - 1st Ellie Hendrie. Sculpture / 3D work yrs 7-8 - 1st Melinda Newman, 2nd Haylee Nicholl. Children’s floral art: Novelty arrangement Prepyr 2 - 1st Jarrah Cicero, 2nd Rye Cicero; yrs 3-4 - 1st Ben Fletcher, 2nd Ashley Cripps; yrs 5-6 - 1st Hannah Fletcher, 2nd Abbie Thomas. Creative use of plants for a display - 1st Lily Webber. Miniature vase of flowers under 7 yrs - 1st Jacqui and Alex O’Keefe, 2nd Nicholas May. Table arrangement with candle under 14 yrs - 1st Lily Webber, 2nd Kira May. Decorated saucer Prep-yr 2 - 1st Nicholas May. Best craft exhibit - Matthew and Jason; most creative mask - Kiara Leach; best floral exhibit - novelty arrangement - Jarrah Cicero; best primary level art entry - Ben Fletcher; best secondary level art entry - Chloe Welsh.

Ready to ride: Toora’s Corrine Hoddinott groomed Linkman in the lead-up to their competition.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Newhaven opens doors Young art THE senior campus at Newhaven College will open its doors today (Tuesday) to visitors for the second of two special School at Work Days. Last Thursday, the college’s junior campus and Year 9 Environmental Centre opened its doors for visitors and prospective students, and parents could observe students at work in a range of academic and extra-curricular activities. Junior school head Rodney McKinlay and Year 9 Environmental Centre head Ric Pearce were happy to share with visitors new programs on offer, and exciting future development and new facility plans for the college. Newhaven College Senior Campus will open its doors to visitors and prospective students and parents today Tuesday, March 6 from 9.30am to 11am.

Going Japanese: from left, Grade 5 students Grace O’Neill of Glen Forbes, Ashlee Aplin of Bass, Cody Wain of Cape Woolamai and Cassandra Anagnostou of Wattlebank enjoy their Japanese classes at Phillip Island’s Newhaven College.

Open door: Newhaven Year 9 students Ella Francis of Silverleaves, Lani Payne of Cape Woolamai, Patrick Humbert of Ventnor and Zed Tonkin of Inverloch were hard at work during their literacy class when Year 9 Environmental Centre Head Ric Pearce and visitor Laura Sibly of Dalyston dropped in last Thursday.

Show and tell: from left, Grade 2 student Chelsea Webber was happy to show off one of her handmade creations to fellow student Erin Mantel during the special School at Work Day at Newhaven College last Thursday.

Fine wine, fine donation THE Inverloch Food and Wine Festival committee showed support for the local community by making a donation to the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club recently. A cheque for $2000 was handed over from the festival to the club by president of the Inverloch Tourism Association and Inverloch Food and Wine Festival, Dom Brusamarello. “The club provides an outstanding service to the community,” he said. “And we’re more than proud to support this worthwhile organisation.” Surf clublife member Alan Bolton and Maureen Ansell thankfully accepted the cheque. “We are very grateful to the food and wine festival for this donation,” Mr Bolton, who is also the club secretary, said. “This will be going towards updating our first aid equipment, along with other supplies.

Thankful: Alan Bolton and Maureen Ansell from the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club accepted a donation of $2000 from president of the Inverloch Tourism Association and Inverloch Food and Wine Festival, Dom Brusamarello (centre).

Tarwin Lower Red Cross

Get away: Chief caravans will be on show at the Leongatha Bowls Club.

Kim and Mark Hanson, who have formed a manufacturing company Chief Caravans, will be attending the club to offer great advice about their range of products. There will be two models on display: the Arrow series and Tribal series. Mark was a former employee of Regent Caravans for a number of years

VISIONARY Images’ R3 pilot project is a youth art and design studio in Wonthaggi working with local young people from all walks of life. “It’s an artistic intervention,” creative director Maria Filippow said of the R3 project’s ability to improve participants’ self-confidence and sense of community connection through contributing to something positive. Stage one of the R3 Project will wrap up in March with an intimate outdoor projection event in Wonthaggi, the release of the second issue of the AMA-Zine art journal and screen time at Federation Square from March 1. Ms Filippow said: “It has been a hugely productive year for stage one of the pilot. We have creatively engaged with over 70 young people from the Bass Coast and South Gippsland areas.” The R3 project needs more local community assistance to help it continue working with young people from the Bass Coast and South Gippsland shires. It requires a studio space for stage two and also needs the commitment of local government and youth service organisations to provide transport and other support to young participants. Ms Filippow has overseen the R3 Project’s two days per week workshops evolve from a seeding project in 2009 to a fully operational artistic base for contemporary public media art in the heart of the region. “We are activating creativity in people who had not considered themselves ‘artistic’ until joining the project,” she said. R3 is still welcoming young people into stage one despite not having an ongoing studio and limited local resources, but more of the community needs to get behind the project to help make it sustainable and stage two possible. “The project has two committed local artists, Sasha Lamont and Glen Orchard, who are being mentored in working creatively with youth,” Ms Filippow said “They are establishing a strong foundation to lead the R3 project into the future, they just require the support.” supp The local exhibition of projections in March will T by a daily screening for one month be accompanied a of the t artwork on Federation Square’s big screen in Melbourne, an opportunity for the young people of Mel the Bass Coast to have their work presented to an even larger audience. “We welcome everybody. Visionary Images’ method of making art is not about individual practice, we share skills, ideas and learn from each other, it is all part of the collaborative exchange,” Ms Filippow said. The R3 Project Studio is located at the rear of 80 Graham Street in Wonthaggi and is open to everyone 15 to 25 years of age, with workshops running from noon until 5pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays until the end of March. Other community members are also welcome to become involved as volunteers. The R3 project will showcase developmental art created during stage one with an intimate public screening at 80 Graham Street on Tuesday, March 27 from 7pm. This will be a great opportunity for the local community to come along and see the culmination of 12 months of work produced during workshops in one evening. To find out more, see: www.r3project.wordpress. com

MARGARET Fisher, president, welcomed 15 members to the first meeting for 2012.

Take a break CARAVANS S will be showcased at the Leongatha gatha Bowls Club on Sunday, March arch 18.

runs free

until he started a caravan repair centre and then ventured into manufacturing in July 2011. Both vans contain of LED TVs and DVD players. The Tribal series has added features of drop down DVD screen players attached to the bunk beds. Vans can be custom built to clients’ specific needs. All the vans come with a two year manufacturer’s warranty.

It was noted that this year we have been lucky not to have been called out for emergency services. Our members, along with the Venus Bay Men’s Shed catered for Australia Day providing cereal, fruit and pancakes. Margaret Fisher welcomed everyone to the event then passed the microphone to Cr Kieran Kennedy to MC the day. Ted Fisher raised the flag, which was followed with the national anthem. Walder and Kathy Dowd both read out Penny Wald poems they had composed and this was followed by Numbers were down on other years due to breakfast. Num the week. the day falling during d Val Latham and Glenda Arbuthnot attended at Leongatha and leant of the the regional meeting me new zones in Victoria to coincide with the CFA boundaries. Glenda attended a morning session learning about REDS (rostering events deployment system) using the computer. Margaret presented Margaret Purchase with flowers, a card and cake to celebrate her 80th birthday and wish her well in her new home at Echuca. Tea was followed with friendship. Our next meeting is on Tuesday March 6, all welcome.

Creative bunch: young people broaden their understanding of art as part of the R3 pilot project.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 47

Preps fit right in PREP students are settling in great at St Joseph’s Primary in Korumburra. The 17 new school-goers have been slipped into school well thanks to Grades 6 students in the Little Buddy program.

School principal Greg Synan said the program was effective. “It’s a great way for the Preps to ease in to the school environment,” he said. “It gives them a big kid to look out for in the playground too, if they have some trouble or need to

know something.” The pairs do all types of activities together, from singing to book reading among many other things. “The program also gives the Grade 6 students a leadership role,” Mr Synan said.

New leaders: Lachie Snooks and Ellie Holmes where named as Korumburra Primary School’s school captains for 2012 at a special assembly recently. They are with McMillan MP Russell Broadbent who presented the badges, and proud school principal Bill Jeffs. House captains and Student Representative Council members were also announced.

Irrigators talk recycled water Little buddies: Prep students at St Joseph’s Korumburra enjoy reading with their Grade 6 buddies, from left: Braydon Haimona, Mitchell Cester, Ziara Condoluci, Taylah Gollop, Kate Abbey and Ambrose Strentz.

Funding heals wounds LATROBE Community Health Service (LCHS) has welcomed $76,000 from the State Government for wound care across Gippsland. LCHS chief executive officer Ben Leigh said the funding would be used to provide valuable programs and training opportunities. “This support will be used to provide new equipment, supplies and education for wound care nurses across Gippsland,” he said. “We provide support to more than 22 organisations across

Gippsland within their district nursing, aged care and bush nursing centres. This funding delivers wound management education, clinical training and access to a clinical nurse consultant who can offer specialist services to regional and remote areas. “Many of the professionals working in these organisations, particularly those at bush nursing centres work in isolation. Providing access to educational opportunities gives them a chance to learn from and share their knowledge and experiences with others.” Mr Leigh said it was important

these professionals had access to the latest research and information about new management strategies and products available. “The funds will also provide some much needed equipment, as well as helping to provide consumables, like dressings, for those that are unable to afford them,” he said. “We are obviously very thankful that the government has provided these funds, which will go a long way to helping wound care nurses provide the best possible care to people across Gippsland.” LCHS is a community based not-for-profit organisation.

SOUTH Gippsland Water staff and recycled water irrigators undertook a full day intensive training course on the use of recycled water recently. As the corporation looks to enable more re-use of its treated wastewater and close a number of its ocean outfalls, this type of training is imperative. Run over a full day at South Gippsland Water’s Foster office, the group was taken through the legislation that governs reclaimed water use including Environment Protection Act 1970, Health Act 1958, Livestock Disease Control Act 1994, Food Act 1984 and Australian New Zealand Food Authority Act 1991. The group also reviewed the differing classes of reclaimed water and the requirements for using this water. In addition, the group explored aspects of environmental protection and the safe and sustainable use of reclaimed water, which covers aspects of both environmental management and occupational health and safety. This type of training course is run regularly by the organisation, not only

to ensure that staff are suitably familiar with the rules and regulations that govern the re-use of treated wastewater, but also to ensure the irrigators who use the recycled water are also informed. This includes farmers who use recycled water on crops and pastures and community groups who use recycled water for irrigating sporting fields. Last week representatives for irrigators who use treated wastewater from South Gippsland wastewater treatment plants at Inverloch, Toora, Waratah Bay, Welshpool and Tarraville were in attendance. South Gippsland Water’s managing director Philippe du Plessis said: “This type of program is imperative for South Gippsland Water to run in order to ensure that our staff and recycled water irrigators are using treated wastewater safely, effectively and sustainably. “Without programs to re-use treated wastewater, the corporation would not be able to achieve its long term goal of closing ocean outfalls into Corner Inlet, a program of closures which has been progressively actioned over the last 10 years.”

Weed battle on coast

PARKS Victoria aims to recommence the spartina control program iin conjuncj tion with Melbourne Water and West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA) around the coastal areas of Corner Inlet, Anderson Inlet and Bass River estuary. The spartina control operation will involve largescale spraying activities using a number of methods including helicopter, boat, hovercraft, quad-bike as well as on foot. The program has been in operation for several years now due to a strong and effective collaborative partnership with Melbourne Water and WGCMA which ensures land, estuary and coastal public lands in the

targeted geographic areas are treated for spartina. Parks Victoria ranger in charge South Gippsland, Gerard Delaney, said these local bays and estuaries host one of the world’s most diverse and unique marine environments covering a complex network of ecological communities, from sandy beach and saltmarsh, through to mangroves, seagrass meadows and open water. “Within this Victorian embayments bioregion, Corner Inlet, Western Port, and Port Phillip Bay are three internationally-recognised Ramsar sites that provide critical feeding and roosting habitats for migratory waders and the Orange-bellied Parrot,” Mr Delaney said. “It also has the southernmost occurrence of white mangroves, and the migratory bird routes of the East Asian – Australasian

and West Pacific flyways lie in range”. One of the main threats to the Ramsar sites within this bioregion is the spread of spartina (also known as rice grass or cordgrass) in its intertidal areas. This is an aggressively invasive weed introduced in the 1920s to combat coastal erosion and reclaim mud flats. Back then, it wasn’t widely understood that the mud flats are part of a delicate ecosystem and that spartina would seriously degrade its waterbird habitat by smothering critical feeding and roosting areas. Nor was it known that spartina would compete with the indigenous plants, alter the natural hydrology and sedimentation patterns, and in turn limit habitats of fish species and restrict waterways. WGCMA CEO Martin Fuller said: “Spartina con-

trol is one of the key projects undertaken to help improve the health of Corner Inlet as part of the Corner Inlet Connections program. This work is done as a partnership between government agencies, landowners and the community. Working in partnership with other organisations helps us to achieve more effective control of a weed which has a significant impact on our coastal areas.” As spartina is biologically well-equipped for rapid spread, an effective control program requires community involvement and collaboration. If you believe you have spartina on your property and would like it included in the treatment program, please call Les Leunig at Parks Victoria Foster on 5683 9001 or Steve Llewellyn at Melbourne Water on 9237 3942.

Hovercraft: Parks Victoria employees suit up to commence the large-scale spraying program using hovercraft, during the recommencement of the spartina control program around the coastal areas including Corner Inlet.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Steve takes home art award LIKE Leonardo Da Vinci, Leongatha artist Steve Canning lives with his work all around him.

Old man river: Wonthaggi Secondary College student Mitchell Sanders performed some classics for The trumpet: Anthony Foon played a Mozartthe crowd at the Wonthaggi Club at the Bass Coast written piece at the Bass Coast Community FounCommunity Foundation show. dation’s Young Performers concert recently.

Leading the way WONTHAGGI Primary School was proud to announce new school captains last week.

From the second one walks into his house, they realise Steve is an avid artist who is passionate about his work. One of these works was recently recognised at a state wide conference in Geelong. “It was at the Having a Say Conference,” Steve explained. The conference is run by Victorian Advocacy League for Individuals with Disability (VALID). “The theme was My life

my way, which I was able to do pretty well,” Steve said. His work, which concentrates on symbolism, comprises of nine sections which all represent parts of his life. These sections include the Wheel of Feeling, the Tree of Life and another representing family. This artwork was one of six chosen from 20 works displayed at the conference. Steve’s artwork took out the National Council on Intellectual Disability (NCID) award for which he received a $100 gift voucher. Steve’s art teacher Marilyn Ardley said he certainly has a passion for art. “Steve tells me that he

wishes he could stay home all day and do his art work,” she said. “He certainly loves it.” This has been a long term hobby for Steve. “Ever since I was little and did my first painting of my hand prints in 1987, I have loved art,” he said. “I’m hoping to get my own exhibition on display soon.” Steve’s paintings vary in size, style and colour and would create a great selection for an exhibition. He is thankful to Ms Ardley and fellow teacher Anda Banikos for helping to make his ideas come to life.

Students had to complete a school captain election process, combining formal applications, interviews with senior school teachers, the assistant principal and principal, as well as making presentations in class and to the whole school. “After an exhaustive and demanding selection process from a field of excellent applicants, Bridget Lowe and Clay Duke were selected,” acting principal Vin Hally said. “They were presented with their school captain badges last week at school assembly by school council president Shelley Harvey, senior school team leader Mark Chandler, acting assistant principal Linda McNair and myself, in front of their proud family, and made their acceptance speeches.”

Winner: Steve Canning and art teacher Marilyn Ardley are both excited about his recent award.

Online opportunity GIPPSLAND students are volunteering to help get local businesses online.

FLYNN Saxen Cheyne Kew is the second son for Brock and Julie of Kongwak. He was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on February 28 and has a big brother Taj, 19 months.

New school captains: Wonthaggi Primary School acting principal Vin Hally congratulates Clay Duke and Bridget Lowe for being selected school captains for 2012.

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star OLIVER John Bolge was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on February 24. He is the fourth son for Tim and Kirsty of Leongatha, and a baby brother for Xavier, 6, Isaac, 4 and Jacob, 2.

Leongatha Red Cross THE February Meeting of the Leongatha Red Crosst was held recently, with a good attendance after the holidays. Several members had attended the regional meeting at which the new zones were explained. They will come in to force next year and will replace the existing 23 regions with nine bigger zones. This has been brought about due to a reduction in the numbers of units in these areas and will be brought into line with the police and emergency zones. Arrangements were made to collect donations at both Safeway and IGA supermarkets during the month of March for Red Cross Calling, which is the annual appeal for funds. There will also be a Mother’s Day Raffle in April and arrangements were made for ticket selling, with lovely prizes available. The next meeting of the unit will be held on Thursday, March 29 at 10.30am at the Leongatha RSL.

30 years ago, o, March 9, 1982 82 MINISTER for HousH ing, Jeff Kennett was in town to officially open the new Compass Savings headquarters. A large crowd, including members of parliament, attended the opening. 10 years ago, March 5, 2002 TWO bottles containing messages were found washed up on South Gippsland shores within one week. A Clean up Australia crew found a bottle on the beach near Cape Paterson, while two teenagers found another bottle at Walkerville. 5 years ago, March 6, 2007 L E O N G AT H A resident Brett Douglas Franklin was jailed this

week for a maximum of 11 years, to serve a i i i years, minimum off nine following a double fatal crash after a birthday party in 2006. 1 year ago, March 8, 2011 PHIL Piper is furious and horrified, after learning that a mining company wants to slap an exploration licence on his peaceful lifestyle property at Mirboo North. **** KARDELLA residents are furious about the location for a proposed new bus stop on Kardella Road. With the Department of Transport refusing to budge on the site, residents have vowed to boycott the new stop.

With the internet an integral part of daily life, small businesses in Gippsland are being offered the opportunity to develop and enhance their online presence, thanks to a unique program that brings together students from Monash University and local secondary schools. A joint initiative between Telstra Country Wide, Monash University Gippsland and Gippsland Local Learning and Employment Networks, the GippsWebs for Business program allows

secondary school students to gain realworld experience by building websites for small businesses in the region. Under the guidance of students from Monash University Gippsland’s Faculty of IT, GippsWebs for Business sees teams of secondary school students working with participating small businesses to develop a fully functional website – all at no cost to the business owner. To register your business to participate in GippsWebs for Business 2012, contact Hayley Elston, Telstra Country Wide – South East Victoria on 03 5173 4102.

Milpara Community House news Mil YOUR Business Online workshop YO will be presented by Small Business Victoria. This workshop will help Vict tori you make ma the most of the internet and ideal is id dea for business owners wanting increase their online presence and to in utilise the internet to manage and utili market their business more effectively. mark The workshop is designed for business operators who already have a website. The workshop will be held on Thursday, March 15 from 6pm to 9.30pm and includes a light meal. Please contact Milpara on 5655 2524 for further information and to book your place. **** Food Safety courses will be held on Wednesday, March 14. These include Follow Workplace Hygiene Practices, Follow Basic Food Safety Practices, Follow Work Procedures to Maintain Food Safety, Implement Food Safety Procedures, Health and Community Services and Food Processing. Please contact Milpara’s friendly staff for information on which course is for you, ph: 5655 2524. **** The next Newcomer’s Luncheon will be held on Monday, March 19 from 12.30pm. This is a great opportunity for people who are new to the community to come together over a friendly luncheon and find out what is happening in their

new neighbourhoods. Please contact Milpara to register your interest on 5655 2524. **** Would you like to learn how to make professional-looking cards, letterheads, posters and brochures? Microsoft Publisher course will commence on Wednesday, March 14 from 6pm to 9pm for three weeks at Milpara Community House at 21 Shellcott’s Road, Korumburra. Please call to book your place on 5655 2524. **** The Centrelink Agency at Milpara Community House is open Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm. The Job Bulletin Board containing current job vacancies and those appearing in the local papers is updated every Tuesday. **** Milpara provides a venue for the following groups: Australian Breastfeeding Association, South Gippsland Community Houses Network, South Gippsland Parenting Network, Korumburra Playgroup, Work Solutions Gippsland, UnitingCare Gippsland, Vision Australia volunteers and Employment Innovations Victoria/ Ostara – Disability Management Services.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 49

ELOUISE Mary Pinczuk was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 28 to Laura and Leigh Pinczuk of Wonthaggi. Elouise is a new sister to Jackson, 2.

CHARLOTTE Rose Roberts was born at Leongatha Memorial Hospital on Monday, February 20. She is a daughter for Karen Woods and Wayne Roberts of Mirboo North, and a sister for Jasmine, 8, and Liam, 1.

NIKKI Anne Gatherum was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 15 to Cassandra and Brett Gatherum of Coronet Bay. Nikki is a new sister to Michael, 7, Billy, 5, and Krystal, 3.

INDIA Elise Moltzen was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 26 to Alicia and Nicholas Moltzen of Cowes.

THOMAS Lachlan Dawson Murphy was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 14 to Rachel Dawson and Simon Murphy of Cowes. Thomas is the first child for Rachel and Simon.

NASH Allen Hornsby was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on January 22. He is the first child for Kellie Ramage and Tony Hornsby of Cape Woolamai.

ABBIE Lee Johnson was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 13 to Shari and Luke Johnson of Wonthaggi.

LOLA Mammone was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on January 20, the first child for Grace Smith and Tan Mammone of Cowes.

DELILAH Elizabeth May Edwards was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 21 to Chelsea Lea Ball and Bowen Peter Edwards of Wonthaggi.

ZIGGY Wagner was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 17 to Diddy Cuthbertson and Paul Wagner of Cowes. Ziggy is a new brother to Winnie, 18, Zach, 17, Jessie, 15, and Cooper, 10.

ELLA May Connor was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 27 to Yvonne Connor of Wonthaggi. Ella May is a new sister to Shannon, 12, Jaimee,10, Ramon, 7, and Kara-dee, Brenton-dee and Felicity, 2.

JAXON Roy James McKenzie was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on February 13 to Nakita McKenzie and Samuel Slade of Bass. Jaxon is a new brother to Kai, 2.

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 51

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

• VLE LEONGATHA

Vealers, steers in demand WHILE the yarding was larger, it was not as big as expected, nor drawn for. Selling to all of the current regular buyers, the mostly fair to good quality yarding all sold to stronger demand. The yarding of 420 young cattle and 1230 grown cattle were all 6c to 14c/kg dearer. Best supported were vealers and grown steers. The quality of the 131 vealers was good to very good, but the prices ranging between 200c and 248c/kg were excellent. Light and medium weight steers sold from 190c to 202c, and most heifers sold between 170c and 205c/kg. Only plain condition cattle, or some dairy and dairy cross cattle made from 140c to 185c/kg.

Several pens of steers mouthed 0 to 2 teeth sold very well, making 193c to 203c/kg, and a few pens weighed over 600kg lwt. The better competition on the day, over the 800 head, was for prime bullocks which made from 184c to 198c, and averaged 190.5c/kg. This occurred despite some being of heavy weight. Manufacturing bullocks sold between 156c and 168c for Friesians, and 165c and 186c/kg for most others. Another small penning

of 360 cows sold to strong processor and restocker competition. The quality of the yarding was not as good, with a much larger percentage of very plain 1 score dairy cows penned. The small number of good quality beef cows sold from 143c to 162c, while most others sold between 110c and 147c/kg. The carcass weight price average was estimated to be 298c/kg. Prices for the smaller penning of 55 bulls were mostly between 148c and 173c/kg.

Wednesday, February 29 BULLOCKS 11 L.M.B. Timmins P/L, Meeniyan 12 Alcheringa Past Co, Mardan 9 S. Whyte, Kardella 12 G. & S.A. Cannata, Leongatha 12 L.R., G.I. & J.G. Adkins, Korumburra

599kg 636kg 611kg 611kg 597kg

202.6 201.6 200.0 199.6 198.0

$1213 $1282 $1223 $1220 $1182

Carruthers & McCarthy, Kardella

592kg 198.0 $1172

STEERS 2 I.K. & L.L. Greig, Meeniyan 1 Alcheringa Past Co, Mardan 1 T.J. & J.M. Hayward, Leongatha 1 I.K. & L.L. Greig, Meeniyan 1 A. Dixon, Loch 13 P.R. & J.R. Carnegie, Jindivick

350kg 405kg 360kg 370kg 355kg 367kg

242.6 241.6 239.6 239.6 236.6 235.0

COWS 1 B. Wilkin, Mirboo 1 M.W. & D.E. Reynolds, Yinnar 1 K. Osborne, Hazelwood 1 Jindinook Nominees, Dumbalk 7 D.M. & M.F. Chalmers, Leongatha 2 T. & J. McRae, Buffalo

590kg 685kg 695kg 630kg 590kg 545kg

162.0 $955 159.6 $1093 156.6 $1088 156.0 $982 155.6 $919 155.0 $844

HEIFERS 1 Alcheringa Past Co, Mardan 1 T.J. & J.M. Hayward, Leongatha 1 I.K. & L.L. Greig, Meeniyan 8 P.R. & J.R. Carnegie, Jindivick 1 R.W. & M.J. Robertson, Tarwin Lower 1 A. Dimgfelder, Jeetho West

390kg 390kg 405kg 353kg 260kg 375kg

241.6 234.0 232.0 228.6 225.6 225.6

$942 $912 $941 $808 $586 $846

BULLS 1 L. Hengstberger, Dumbalk 1 J.J. & R.E. Tuffin, Toora 1 I. & R. Hengstberger, Stony Creek 1 Blair & Jackson, Stony Creek 1 B.W., R. & D.B. Knee, Toora 1 G.J. & C.M. Alford, Woolamai

575kg 950kg 820kg 745kg 910kg 880kg

173.2 173.0 172.2 171.2 170.0 168.0

$995 $1643 $1412 $1275 $1547 $1478

$849 $978 $862 $886 $839 $863

VFF positions open for nominations VICTORIAN Farmers Federation (VFF) members will be given the chance to play a greater role in the future of agriculture as nominations open for the 2012 VFF elections. Current VFF president Andrew Broad said candidates can make a difference to agricultural policy around the state and further afield. “Victorian agriculture needs strong people who can stand up and fight the fight for pro-

Experience: Over 30 years experience in agriculture and the pasture seed industry Knowledge: Recommending only varieties that have been trialed in the region Availability: We are open after hours for your convenience Value: Have the experience to offer the most economic options for your farm, saving you $$$ Glyphosate 450 Available at competitive prices this season

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ducers and farm business. We have many smart, clear-headed and business savvy members who would be a great fit on our various boards and policy councils,” Mr Broad said. “I encourage members who perhaps haven’t thought to run before to step-up and throw their hat in the ring.” There are a number of positions open, including VFF president and vice president. Nominations close at 5pm, Thursday, March 8. For the first time, all farm members of the federation will have an opportunity to vote in

these leadership positions, with postal ballots being mailed on March 23. “All members should take an interest in who represents the farm community to government and the general public,” Mr Broad said. Postal ballots must be returned to the VFF by April 13. Results will be announced at the Victorian Farmers Federation Annual Conference in Bendigo on April 19 and 20. Positions open for nomination are: president; vice president; policy council chairs and committees; water council

committee; UDV president; UDV vice president; UDV Commodity Council; livestock president; livestock vice president; andLivestock Commodity Council. Members can find out further information about the nomination process at the Victorian Farmers Federation website – www.vff.org.au – or by calling the VFF on 1300 882 833. The Victorian Farmers Federation is the major lobby group and industry body for Victorian agriculture, representing farmers and farm businesses around the state.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 53

Gendore shows latest in machinery IT was all about Alpego for the team from Gendore Tractors and Machinery on Wednesday. Their demonstration day at Loch went off well, with a number of farmers coming to see new products in action. On display were rotary hoes, twisted blade, rotary tillers and power harrows along with deep rippers, 3PL disc cultivators and the new range of Gamberini spreaders. Export manager for International flair: general manager of Gendore Leongatha Tim Burgess and Alpego, Sam Pecoridi, export manager for Alpego Sam Pecoridi from Italy at the Gendore-Alpego came all the way from demo day on Wednesday. Italy to talk customers through the machinery, along with a large selection of Gendore staff. The machinery was demonstrated to give farmers a firsthand look of the Alpego range in action.

Right: On hand: Michael Peck from Gendore was one of the many staff members on the day to answer questions.

Ragwort neglect prompts fines FINES of more than $5800 were issued to land-holders after concerns about poor ragwort control were raised by Baw Baw and South Gippsland shire councils with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI). DPI niosecurity officer Gerry O’Keeffe said ragwort was of a particular concern in the Mountain View, Poowong, Loch, Nyora and Wonthaggi areas, and DPI used its enforcement powers to

support the community’s efforts. “DPI staff inspected 14 properties in the West Gippsland area, and issued 21 directions notices which required land-holders to legally control ragwort,” Mr O’Keefe said. “Recent follow-up inspections identified seven properties that had not met the requirements of the notices. “As a result 13 penalty infringement notice fines will be issued to landholders associated with these properties.” Land-owners have a legal responsibility to manage pest plants and

animals on their property to ensure they don’t adversely affect agricultural production on neighbouring farms or impact the natural environment. Under the Catchment and Land Protection Act (CaLP) 1994, landowners are liable for fines up to $29,000. Mr O’Keeffe said DPI was supporting local efforts to control ragwort in the region. “All community members need to do their bit to help control ragwort. DPI will bring land-owners to account if their inaction threatens the effectiveness of weed control ef-

forts of the wider community,” he said. “We have a clear message from the Triholm, Poowong and Loch/ Nyora Landcare groups, strongly supported by the Baw Baw and South Gippsland shire councils, that they want DPI to enforce action on priority species such as ragwort and bolster the community-led efforts.” For more information about pest plant management visit the DPI website – www.dpi.vic.gov.au or call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

Young farmers let down: VFF YOUNG farmers are being let down by the State Government according to the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF).

VFF president Andrew Broad is disappointed about the removal of the $10,000 First Farm Grant and the non-supportive stamp duty scheme. “We’ve been done over by the government on their election promise to exempt young farmers from paying stamp duty on the first $300,000 of agricultural land they buy,” he said. “Treasury has butchered the scheme, phasing the exemption down to zero once the farm is worth more than $400,000.” Meanwhile Melbourne’s first home-buyers are getting First Home Owner Grants of $7000 (on properties worth up to $750,000), plus

another $13,000 if they’re buying a new home. “It hardly seems fair,” Mr Broad said. “It’s tough enough getting into farming as it is, let alone finding the government lets you down by failing to deliver on its election promises.” Mr Broad said the government had also excluded other young farmers from gaining the exemption because they were members of their family farm’s trust. “It’s time for the government to deliver on its promise,” he said. Agriculture and Food Security Minister Peter Walsh said he was disappointed by the VFF’s claims. “Our commitment to a stamp duty exemption scheme for farmers under 35 was doubled from an original commitment of $6 million to $12

million,” he said. “The program will be reviewed at the end of 12 months and we will consider revising the rules if the money isn’t going out the door. “If a farm is worth more than $400,000, farmers can still access the exemption scheme if they place separate titles on the blocks of land.” Mr Walsh said that under the Coalition Government, there was greater support for young farmers than ever before. “We have been working in good faith with farm representatives to ensure the design of the stamp duty concession meets the policy intent, which is why I am particularly disappointed by the VFF’s comments,” he said.

Expert: export manager for Alpego Sam Pecoridi demonstrated the ins and outs of some of the machinery to Ron, Jonathon, Alan and Ronny Miller.

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Clearing sale raises funds THE Foster Rotary Club was pleased to hold a fundraising clearing sale in Fish Creek on Friday. Up for grabs was a range of items from different vendors, along with a lot of donated goods. Although funds were still being counted, Rotarians were happy with the day. All of the profits from the sale will be donated to the Prom Country Aged Care Building Fund. • More photos in next week’s Star.

Suppling the food: Lyn Linton, Richard Brown and the team from the Foster Rotary Club kept the masses fed. Left: Searching: Gunter Radish and John Tatman looked for some good deals at the Foster Rotary Club Clearing Sale on Friday.

Dairy farmers give back to industry WHEN Foster couple Kevin and Helen Jones do something, they do it properly. Already acknowledged as running one of the best dairy farm businesses in the state, they have put themselves under the microscope as Focus Farmers for the past three years. Once they committed to the award winning project, the Jones’ decided to go all the way by opening up their farm accounts for everyone to see.

Few farmers are willing to expose their books to their neighbours and friends, but for Kevin it was a simple decision. “If you are going to do something you may as well do it properly,” he said at the final Focus Farm field day last Wednesday. “The first day we had our meeting, I had two young farmers ring me up and say they couldn’t believe we could do this with that level of debt. “So instantly someone has got something out of

A Ruralco Partner

KOONWARRA SPECIAL DAIRY SALE Tuesday 13th March at 11.00am

KOONWARRA VLE

140 Quality Dairy 140 Cows and Heifers

Selling: a/c A & J Appleyard, Leongatha - 2nd Stage Dispersal - JD Score 7 31 2 year old Jersey Heifers due April-May to Son of Jetime. Sired by Senior, Jetime, BW Country, PT Sires and sons of Pine and Brookbi 2 2 year old Pure Jersey Bulls - Sired by Jetime a/c Sunnyside, Poowong 35 2 year old Jersey Friesian X heifers. Due AprilMay to Bushlea bred bulls a/c Bushlea Farms, Koonwarra - JD Score 7 20 Jersey Friesian X heifers. Fresh calved and springing. Sires include Farmsteady, Orana. Dams sired by Goldwyn, Alta Colin, Shomar, Lionheart.Dams production up to 11,233 Litres a/c S & R Zappulla, Boolarra - Dispersal Line 20 Fresian & Jersey Cows - Spring calving and open a/c Various Vendors Freshly calved Holstein cows

FURTHER ENTRIES INVITED Terms are cash or cheque on day of sale or settlement by your Agent - Letter of Introductions MUST be provided Andrew Mackie 0419 595 932 Luke Russell0408 313 815 Phil Malcolm 0408 559 408

Ph: (03) 9338 9259 PO Box 462, Tullamarine Business Centre, Tullamarine VIC 3043 www.dairylivestockservices.com.au

Movers, shakers: key players in the Foster Focus farm project were (clockwise from top left) facilitator John Mulvany, Kevin, Mitchell and Helen Jones and farm employees Christina Ermolou and Alan Stark. it, they have already learnt something. That’s what you want them to learn and grow from.” Focus Farms is a highly acclaimed program that examines production methods, financials, environmental issues and farm family needs during the three year period. Each Focus Farm has an experienced farm consultant acting as a facilitator and a support group made up of fellow farmers and local service providers. All six Focus Farms in Gippsland are supported by Gardiner Foundation, Dairy Australia and GippsDairy. The Jones’ introduction to Focus Farms coincided with the milk price drop that saw them with plenty of debt but with a drastically reduced income. It meant that the focus of the initial Focus Farm meetings turned from how to improve the farm to how to keep it. “Our goals were to consolidate, reduce debt and

survive,” Kevin said. “The day we took over the new farm was the same day we got the letter saying the milk price has fallen over.” Once they were back on more solid financial ground, Foster Focus Farm facilitator John Mulvany said Kevin’s attitude to labour and infrastructure issues started to change. With a desire to spend less time with his cows and more time with his children, Katie and Mitchell, Kevin and Helen took the plunge into updating the dairy. “It was more the issues of staffing, cow numbers and infrastructure where, as a result of the program, we changed direction,” John said. “We invested in more infrastructure which wasn’t the plan.” Kevin’s initial approach was not to invest too much in the dairy, instead using two full-time labour units and stick with his old 20 unit swingover.

“We ended up with a 20 double up, one full time labour unit and a part timer – and that was with no increase in debt,” John said. It took the input from some of the younger members of the support group to convince Kevin that his dairy infrastructure had to change before his lifestyle would. “The younger members of the Focus Farm Group were saying that they knew he could milk 400 cows with a 20 cow swingover just by employing more staff, but no one wants to milk 400 cows in a 20 unit swingover,” John said. “Even though they are being paid by the hour they just won’t want to do it. “Once we had a one person dairy – a 20-double up with cup removers – it was more attractive to staff. So we broke through that barrier.” The Jones’ have just returned from a five week beach holiday – the longest they can remember.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 55

public notices

public notices TARWIN LOWER Market Monday 12th March, 2012 7.30am - 2pm. Bookings essential. Ph: 5663-7345.

Autumn Affair Presented by the Fish Creek Art Group Inc FISH CREEK MEMORIAL HALL

CHIROPRACTOR NORMAN G. VRADENBURG

Friday March 9 1pm to 4pm Saturday March 10 8am to 4pm Sunday March 11 10am to 4pm Monday March 12 10am to 3pm

“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

THE ROTARY CLUB OF LEONGATHA thanks the Sponsors and Businesses who supported our highly successful Dance and Auction night - “Saturday Night Live” held Saturday March 3, 2012. Without the support of our local businesses, functions such as this would not be possible and we are deeply grateful and appreciative. As with all fundraising activities of Rotary the local community ultimately receives the benefit. A most enjoyable night was had by all, thank you. Our sponsors: Handley Funeral Services Paul & Margaret Beck Lulu Café & Clothing Evans Petroleum South Gippsland Dental Birch Ross & Barlow Meritum Financial Group Leongatha Agencies, SEJ & Co. Morrison Jefferis Accountants Orrong Holidays / Phil Botte McCartins Hotel, Oakleys McKenzie-McHarg Lawyers, Prom Country Real Estate The Great Souther Star Edneys Leongatha David Trease Design & Drafting Solutions Kerry Pritchard Fawcett & Pickersgill Accountants Tarwin Veterinary Group RSL, Gippsreal Pty Ltd Steve & Faye Rump Builders Terry White Pharmacy McDonald & Roberts Electricians Ross Johnson Real Estate

Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate Westaway Ford Jackson & Lawry Optometrists Riseley’s Transport Businesses that provided auction items and prizes: Reece Plumbing Considine & Johnston Builders Lacy Jewellery Studio & Gallery Leongatha Rural Supplies Col & Barb Byatt, Marriotts, LC Excessorise Eugenies, Autbarn Voyage Fitness Leongatha Panthers Taranto Windows & Glass John O’Connor Leongatha Newsagency Bellvale Wines Berrys Creek Hays Leading Edge Jewellers Lucinda Estate SWAT Pest Management Koonwarra Day Spa Carino’s Café, Bakers Delight McCartins Hotel, Action Pumps Bairs Hotel, Middendorp Electrical Nagel’s Pharmacy

PROM COAST MARTIAL ARTS CLUB Tai Chi / Qigong & Karate Training recommencing for 2012 on 30/1/12 Sandy Pt, Foster, Toora and Inverloch New students always welcome Accredited I.M.A instructors, 25 yrs exp For all info call Andy Law on 0409 871 305

COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM The Bass Coast Community Foundation’s annual Community Grants Program is now open to any organisation who is an endorsed DGR, tax concession charity or is applying for funding for a charitable activity. The focus of this year’s program is Community Strengthening. Groups, or projects must operate exclusively within the boundaries of the Bass Coast region. Grants of up to $5000 are available to assist with program development, equipment purchases or event organisation. Applications are to be sent to: Executive Ofﬁcer, BCCF, PO Box 180, Wonthaggi Vic. 3995 by Friday, April 20, 2012. Application forms can be downloaded from www.bccf.org.au or by contacting Kate on 5672 3356 or info@bccf.org.au

CHIROPRACTOR Garry Harrison 19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson

Justice Services Visits Bringing information & education concerning Justice Services that are available in the Gippsland region.

Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday

Town visit schedule is:DATE Tuesday, March 6

TIME 10.00 AM – 12.15 PM

1.45 PM – 3.45 PM Wednesday, March 7

10.00 AM – 12.15 PM 1.30 PM – 3.30 PM

TOWN COWES Thompson Avenue (outside Visitor Information Centre) WONTHAGGI Murray Street (near Woolworths & Centrelink) LEONGATHA Smith Street (outside Council Offices) MIRBOO NORTH Ridgway (Main Street)

By appointment Ph: 5674 8290

DUMBALK ANNUAL VILLAGE MARKET

Staff from the Department of Justice will attend with the Mobile Justice Service Centre, and be available to answer queries, and provide information on the wide variety of justice services available. This is an opportunity for the community to come and see Department of Justice staff in a more informal environment, and seek information and advice about consumer rights and access a wealth of other justice-related information and services, including:-

AT DUMBALK HALL Saturday March 24 8am onwards Ideal opportunity to sell your surplus goods Or purchase a bargain Contact 5664 4344 or 5664 4254

Sheriffs Office – to provide information on the role of Sheriff, including procedures available to resolve any outstanding fines. Community Correctional Services – to provide information on the role of CCS, advice/information on Community Based Dispositions, and career advice. Births Deaths & Marriages – to provide advice and information about the process for requesting and lodging applications for births, deaths, and marriages. Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee – to provide information on services available to the koori community, and develop and provide support to existing community initiatives. Dispute Settlement Centre – to provide advice and information on mediation services available to assist in resolving disputes. Consumer Affairs Victoria – to provide advice and information on a variety of consumer issues, including residential tenancies. Working With Children Check Unit – to provide advice and information about the process for lodging applications. Gamblers Help & Generalist Financial Counselling – to provide advice and information on services available to assist with problem gambling, as well as budgeting and financial counselling.

CAR BOOT SALE Monday March 12 Wanted Stalls

mitch44758

For further details, please contact: Gordon McHallam, Department of Justice, Gippsland Region Phone: 5116 5700

MEENIYAN CFA

Contact Denise 0407 817 324 Doug 0417 337 197 Firewood Auction Car Wash Sausage Sizzle

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

business opportunities

situations vacant

BABY BOUTIQUE LEONGATHA

milpara community house

SALES & CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated person for a 6 month contract, to assist with the administration of Milpara Community House under the direction of a co-ordinator. Hours to be negotiated. For job description telephone 5655 2524 or email milpara@dcsi.net.au

• Relationship / On-Farm Focus • Dairy • Gippsland Region As Genetics Australia continues to build on its relationships with both farmers and re-sellers, we are in search of an additional sales person in South Gippsland. We are seeking a relationship focused Sales & Customer Service Representative who will take responsibility for the sales of our products, as well as promote and support the organisation through industry related events and activities. Focused on developing existing and new relationships with farmer customers, as well as re-sellers, your responsibilities will include developing and maintaining sales and marketing relationships and achieving agreed sales & business targets. As this role is largely autonomous, you will have the ability to work within a focused team and will be ﬂexible and timely in reacting to market conditions and customers. Ideally, the successful candidate will possess agribusiness sales experience (ideally animal health or dairy) and will have a willingness to travel throughout their territory. There is an expectation that the successful candidate will possess superior communication and organisational skills. An excellent remuneration package with an incentive program based on performance will be negotiated to attract candidates of the highest calibre. Applicants should email an application detailing qualiﬁcations and experience relevant to the position to ncoker@genaust.com.au A detailed position description is available on request from Neill Coker on 03 5367 9202. Applications close on Friday 16th March 2012

BRAND NEW SHOP Immaculate setup Excellent Main Street location Fully integrated online web-store ASKING $60,000 & SAV Contact Damon Stanford 0416 146 428

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT (Part-time)

Applications close March 20, 2012 and should be addressed to: The President Milpara Community House PO Box 136 Korumburra 3950

BUSINESS FOR SALE THE HUB CYCLE CENTRE Wonthaggi Est. for over 30 years Great opportunity in a growing region Price on application For further information call Jeremy at Sell A Business on 0421 720 661

work wanted

QUALIFIED DECORATOR Painting / gardening, and maintenance. 0422397933, 5686-2789.

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

situations vacant FULL OR PART TIME

RELIEF MILKER For dairy farm 3km from Leongatha Experience essential PHONE 0409 625 021 BH 5662 5025 AH

WANTED

RELIEF MILKER for casual, ﬂexible weekend work 180 cows 10 mins from Leongatha Phone 5668 9292

FULL TIME Apprentice Chef. Join the team at Moo’s. Phone Marty 56640010.

situations vacant

SALES REPRESENTATIVE AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY Due to the rising demand of machinery sales we are seeking an enthusiastic knowledgeable, self motivated individual who has a good understanding of local conditions with knowledge of machinery sales and the agricultural industry. Windmill Ag is a long standing Victorian business. Starting as a small service station, then growing over the years into a multi-store outlet for John Deere tractors and farm machinery, Windmill Ag services a large portion of south western and south eastern Victoria. Windmill Ag's large service and parts team complements their extensive sales business of farm equipment. • Ability to speak effectively one on one and within a group • Familiar with John Deere and competitive products • Ability to use standard desktop load applications such as Microsoft Ofﬁce and Internet functions • Adherence and respect for Windmill Ag values and behaviours • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with colleagues • Strong communication skills, in particular an appreciation for farmers' needs • Proven time management skills which are effective when under pressure • A commitment to high quality customer service with a strong people orientation • Strong motivational and persuasive skills, coupled with good planning and administrative skills • Strong negotiating skills • Responsive and alert to business improvement opportunities This position offers great incentives including a company vehicle, mobile phone and computer. This is a rewarding position for an enthusiastic individual to join our team here at Windmill Ag. If you think this position is for you please forward your resumé to: Jason Henry PO Box 231, Leongatha VIC 3953 5667 6600 or 0427 723 522 Or email to jason.henry@windmillag.com.au Closing March 15

RELIEF MILKER wanted, Fish Creek area. Ph: 0427891245.

JOHN DEERE

LIVESTOCK MARKET OFFICER • Based in Gippsland (Vic) As part of Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), the National Livestock Reporting Service (NLRS) provides independent livestock market information to the meat and livestock industry and reports on main selling centres throughout the six states of Australia. NLRS reports on physical markets, offers a comprehensive analytical service and provides information on slaughter statistics, skin and hide prices and Over the Hook sales. We require a Livestock Market Officer (LMO), based at Gippsland, Victoria for 4 days per week to collect specific market intelligence and market data in order to prepare an unbiased evaluation of cattle markets. To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate: • A thorough knowledge of the meat and livestock industry and livestock assessment with practical experience necessary • Good knowledge of the production and processing sector • Demonstrated understanding of saleyard selling procedures • A current drivers licence and availability to travel across Victoria when required • Effective time management skills and ability to meet deadlines • Excellent written and oral communication skills • Basic computer skills and an understanding of Microsoft Office applications To view the full position description and selection criteria for this position and to apply, please go to our careers page at www.mla.com.au. To discuss these opportunities further, please contact the Human Resources team on 02 9463 9266. Applications close 18 March 2012

situations vacant

Sales Support Livestock

situations vacant

MC DRIVER Ryans Transport is looking for a B-double driver to join their award winning team. Local (Melb) work with varied shifts. If you have an excellent driving record and B-double driving experience, we would love to talk to you. Top rates paid for the right people, along with excellent working conditions and late model vehicles. Call Tom on 0409 613 664

SITUATIONS VACANT

Building a Healthy Community

Family Violence Counsellor 0.385 EFT

BCCHS seeks expressions of interest for the part time employment of an enthusiastic person to provide an effective and supportive counselling practice and interventions to victims of family violence. Remuneration for this position as per relevant professional qualiﬁcations. Enquiries to Louk Thiele, Acting Coordinator Allied Health Team. To obtain a position description and an employment application form, please telephone reception on 5671 9200 or refer to our website: www.bcchs.com.au Applications close 5 pm Monday 19 March 2012 and should be addressed to: HR Administrator Bass Coast Community Health Service 1 Back Beach Road, San Remo 3925 Or by email to: HR@bcchs.com.au

Leongatha At Landmark you can explore the many roles and activities of an industry leader in Australian agribusiness. Across our national network, our people have unrivalled expertise and the ability to grow with the business as they work with the customers to grow theirs. The Sales Support Livestock role will play an integral part in the processing of all livestock sales as well as providing support across all activities of the branch as required. This is a permanent part time role, required 32 hours per week. The ideal candidate will have excellent computer skills, practical organisation, attention to detail, good communication skills and the confidence to deal with clients and suppliers both face to face and by telephone. This is an exciting opportunity for someone wanting to work within the rural industry while gaining valuable skills for the future. Landmark is an Equal Opportunity Employer who also offers a competitive package including access to a wide range of employee benefits.

For further information please contact Naomi Logan on 03 5662 2291 or apply on-line at our website: careers.landmark.com.au

Ref: J005062 Applications Close 15.03.12

landmark.com.au

NURSE UNIT MANAGER EMERGENCY SERVICES GRADE 4 FULL-TIME Looking to expand your management career in a growing rural organisation’s Emergency Department? An exciting opportunity exists for a dynamic, highly motivated, experienced Registered Nurse to join our middle management team. Bass Coast Regional Health has approximately 13,500 emergency presentations per annum and we are looking for the right person to lead the unit and participate in the redesign program to improve workﬂows. We offer: • Support for Postgraduate studies in management • Generous Salary Packaging • Active participation in the leadership and management team • Free on-site parking You will: • Have a minimum of 4 years clinical experience preferably with experience in Charge Management and post-graduate qualiﬁcations highly desirable • Exhibit highly developed interpersonal and communication skills • Demonstrate excellence in advanced clinical practice and knowledge • Be pro-active, highly motivated and an effective time manager • Demonstrate active participation in and promotion of professional development • Hold a current Police Check • Hold current AHPRA registration We are also seeking:

Operating Suite Registered Nurse Grade 2 (Full-time/Part-time)

Seeking Nurses with at least 2 to 5 years Perioperative experience in the Operating Rooms desirable.

After-Hours Co-Ordinator Registered Nurse Grade 5 (Permanent/Casual)

Seeking experienced Registered Nurses to join the After-Hours Co-ordinator team. For further information or to obtain a Position Description, please contact the A/DDON Barbara Harrison or visit our website – www.bcrh.com.au Written application with CV, including 3 referees to: Janet Lodge DON Bass Coast Regional Health PO Box 120, Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Applications close Friday 16th March 2012

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 57

situations vacant

accommodation PROFESSIONAL person seeks midweek self contained accommodation in or close to Leongatha. Ph: 0431-380089.

AUTO TECHNICIAN QUALIFIED A position has become available at Inverloch Marine for an Automotive Technician. 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. If you are looking for a change, come and join in our friendly team environment. All applications will be treated as conﬁdential. Email resume to: service@inverlochmarine.com.au Phone 5674 1502 Shane Hemming - Service Manager 2 The Esplanade, Inverloch

for lease 100 ACRES for lease or agistment, Foster area. Ph: 0431-595729.

for rent INVERLOCH 3 bedroom house close to inlet beach. 0418-387090. VENUS BAY - house, short stroll to beach and shops, sleeps 7. Permanent rental also available. Contact: 0408-320001.

free SITUATION VACANT

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

CHAINSAWS AND STATIONARY ENGINES ETC.

Building a Healthy Community

Systems Support Administration Officer 0.79 EFT - 60 hours per fortnight

BCCHS seeks expressions of interest for the part time employment of an enthusiastic person with excellent computer skills, the ability to use a range of software applications, accurately analyse data, problem solve and ‘think outside the square’. The successful applicant is required to work at any BCCHS site as required. Remuneration for this position as per Health & Allied Services Award. Enquiries to Dominic Miles, Finance & Ofﬁce Administrator. To obtain a position description and an employment application form, please telephone reception on 5671 9200 or refer to our website: www.bcchs.com.au Applications must address the key selection criteria, and include the Application for Employment form. Applications close 5 pm 15 March, 2012 and should be addressed to: HR Administrator Bass Coast Community Health Service 1 Back Beach Road, San Remo 3925 Or by email to: hr@bcchs.com.au

Repairs and services

Phone JOHN GOULD 5664 0012

situations vacant

for sale

VACUUM CLEANER

CARAVAN 1985 Jayco pop-top, bunk beds, sleeps 6, full canvas annex, 18ft single axle, $6,000. Family outgrown. 5668-1707.

DUST BAGS

CARAVAN Royal Flair 2001 Micron poptop, 13’6” x 7’6”, rear door, d/bed, $13,250. Mob: 0458-206221.

Repairs

Sales

FREE

QUOTES

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

5672 3127

CHAINSAW near new, and Whipper Snipper, $200 ONO. 0417-505731.

No Bank Qualifying

DUCKS Indian Runners, $25 each. 0417-056050, 5686-2407.

3 br. Wonthaggi Own It Now $497 / wk

8677-9130 ACER ASPIRE Notebook, 64 bit, 640 GB, 15.6”, webcam and two year warranty. Still in box, $400. 0404-481818. CAMPER TRAILER Tru Blu off-road 2010, 12 foot tent, awning, kitchen, ex. Cond. $15,000. Ph: 0407343796.

situations vacant

DAIRY FARM HAND

Shire Council

Coal Creek Community Park & Museum Join our dedicated team at Coal Creek Community Park & Museum, working to enhance and promote our community asset, which preserves the unique history of coal and the South Gippsland Railway.

Tertiary qualiﬁcations in education or equivalent relevant experience in teaching, current VIT registration and an understanding of primary and secondary school sectors and current curriculums, is essential.

Casual Tour Guides $27.67 per hour Be the front face of our guided tours, providing educational and enjoyable tours with groups of school students, teachers and adults. You will have previous experience in a tourism or museum environment and in providing educational guided tours along with well developed interpersonal skills. Enquiries for these casual roles to Rowena Ashley, Coal Creek Coordinator on (03) 5655 1811. All applicants must submit an Application Form and address the selection criteria outlined in the position description by 5pm 21 March 2012. Further information and position descriptions are available from our website.

www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

LUCERNE HAY and mulch, LSQ, rolls, sml sq. ASK Ag., Cowwarr. Ph: 5148-9397. PASTURE HAY premium quality, all bale types. ASK Ag., Cowwarr. Ph: 51489397. POTATO BINS half tonne, $8. 0427-343950. RIDE-ON MOWER Greenfields, 32 inch cut, as new cond, only done 9 hours work, and trailer, 7 foot by 4 foot, full cage, plus aluminium folding ramps. $5,000 for both. Ph: 0419-897322. SHIPPING CONTAINER 20ft, weatherproof, good condition $2,000. Ph: 0428629756 or 0429-634245.

TRUCK DRIVER

TIMBER Kiln dried blackwood, silver wattle, cypress, celery top pine, most sizes for furniture and craft, also slabs and structural pine. Ph: 56812261.

The applicant would need to be ﬁt as this position includes some heavy lifting. Some overtime is required also. Please apply in writing to: Mark Warren, Capeview Building Products P.O Box 115, Wonthaggi 3995 Applications close on Friday March 16, 2012

training

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each. Free delivery for pack lots. Phone Joe 0417-530662.

livestock LAMBS Wilti-Dorper X wethers, 6-7 mths, full shedders. Ideal low maintenance lawn mowers, $144 each. Koonwarra 5664-2390.

Turn your Skills into Assets and become a Professional Workplace Trainer. The Certi cate TAE40110 enables you to train and assess in the workplace. Please Contact our Customer Service Team at your nearest Campus NOW to Enrol. Cowes and Leongatha course commencing soon.

Horn Street Leongatha Ph: 5662 6700 Entry ia Howard St www.ccg.asn.au

LAND TO LEASE For grazing cattle and sheep Phone 5169 1646

WANTED TO LEASE 12 + ACRES of red soil for snow peas Good rates PHONE 0419 155 360

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

CARAVANS WANTED CASH PAID 0417 592 169

Most photos that appear in The Star can be purchased by calling 5662 2294. garage sales

used vehicles Did you know you can gain a Nationally Accredited training and assessment certi cate at Community College Gippsland?

WANTED

S T U D I O - B U N G A L OW 6x3 portable. Excellent condition $9,000. 56862789. 91 Husqvarna dirt bike 350 TE. Vin Z H U I E A 5 6 X LV 0 0 0 3 A . 0422-397933.

training

Casual Teachers $34.37 per hour We are looking for suitably experienced teachers, you will be responsible for conducting educative and enjoyable classroom experiences for students and teachers.

GREY FERGIE 18hp petrol, goes well, body needs work. $2,750 ONO. Ph: 5674-4504.

An established Dairy Farm in the Koonwarra area requires a semi experienced / experienced Dairy Person to work on a casual or full time basis to join our experienced team. Applicants must be reliable, hard working and honest. Paid weekly by the hour. Duties will include, but not limited to milking and general farm duties. Current driver’s licence essential. Phone Pauline 0438 745 593

Capeview requires the services of a suitably licensed truck and crane operator. The position includes deliveries of windows, doors and general building materials.

South Gippsland

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

wanted

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 HOLDEN BERLINA VT Auto, full electric windows, mirrors, and driver’s seat. Cruise control, towbar, rego until May, new tyres and wheel alignment, motor and transmission in perfect running order. $3,000. Ring 0419-897322.

wanted to buy FRIESIAN heifer young calves. Ph: 0447-398822.

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 sales

RUBY Monster Garage Sale, Saturday and Sunday March 10 and 11, 8am, 975 Ruby Road. Tall cane shelves, DVDs, heater, china, swivel chairs, plants, fishing gear, chainsaw, and boat and lots more. Moving sale at 990 Ruby Road - furniture and heaps of quality items.

marriage celebrant

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

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

in memoriam

VAN DILLEN - Tyson. 5.3.2005 Seven years Tys. Life doesn’t get any easier without you. You will always be dearly loved and sadly missed. Till we meet again you are “only a whisper away”.

Mum, Dad,Vanessa, Dakes, Yol, Sibby, Vaughan’o, and families.

deaths

POUW - Gerardus Adrianus (Gerry). 29.05.1931 - 27.02.2012 Passed away peacefully at Leongatha Hospital. Formerly of Wooreen. Loving and dearly loved husband of Dot for 51 wonderful years. Generous and loving father of John, Graeme, Tom and Deb. Loved father-in-law and friend of Leah, Jane, Nicole and Steve. Adored Poppy Gerry of Andrew and Pauline, Simone, Jaydan, Anthea and Jacob, Shane, Christian, Aidan and Leigh. A hard working man with a big heart who enjoyed a beer at the end of the day with his family and friends. Will be greatly missed.

POUW - Gerardus (Gerry). Good friend of Ron and Naomi Zaghet and family. Rest in peace mate. POUW - Gerry. Your dedication and hard work for your family and friends has now come to a peaceful end. Loving brother-in-law to Lorraine, Ange (dec), Brian, and families.

POUW - Gerry. You are a fantastic father who worked hard to provide for your family to give them the best future. Dad, I’m going to miss you sitting at the window giving me orders and pointing out what needs to be done in the garden. As well as giving me the cheekiest grin to sneak in one or more stubbies. You are a wonderful and loving fatherin-law to Leah and pop to Simone and Shane. We all love you so much and will miss you even more. Your loving son John and Leah. xoxo Cheeky Poppy, Words cannot express what you truly mean to us. You’ve brought extreme joy and happiness to our lives and we are thankful. Never can you be replaced nor forgotten. We shall cherish every moment spent together especially the ones terrorising poor nan. Missing you every day! R.I.P. Pop Love Simone and Shane. xoxo

PAGE 58 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Rotary dance raises more than $20,000 deaths WILLIS - Dawn Marree. Passed away peacefully at Leongatha Hospital on March 1, 2012. Aged 78 years, late of Leongatha. Beloved wife of Jack (dec). Loved and loving mother and mother-in-law of Joy and Robert, Len and Sharon, Ruth and Gary, Laurel and Russell, Julie, Shellie and Geoff, Christine and Joey, and Ian. Much loved nana of Lynette and Neville, Tracey and Ross, Trevor and Lauren; Jason and Colin, Sherrie and Lee, Wesley, Leasa, Tania and Rod; Michael and Claire, Allan and Teesh, Kelly, and James; Kara and Greg, Skye and Tremaine, Aaron and Tahnee; Ben, Josh and Alyse; Amy, Brittany and Emma (all dec), Danny and Kylie, and Sean. Great nana of Nicholas, Brooke, Tayla and Robert; Jack, Adrian, Riley, Gemma, Ashley, and Charlie; Izack, Dane, and Shayla; Shinae, and Te-Teho. Step nan of Kyle; Jake and Riley. Special friend and soul mate of Roy. A special smile A special face And in our hearts A special place. A tender thought That brings a tear, A silent wish That you were here.

deaths

funerals WILLIS - The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of the late Mrs Dawn Marree Willis will be held at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Leongatha on Thursday, March 8, 2012 commencing at 10.30am. The funeral will leave after refreshments for Gippsland Memorial Park, Traralgon, arriving at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gippsland Southern Health Service’s Palliative Care. Envelopes will be available at the service.

LEONGATHA Rotarians gathered with their partners and guests on Saturday evening to give the dance floor and four walls at Mesley Hall a good workout at the club’s annual musical fund raising extravaganza. Social occasion: John, Athena and Judy Ellis.

message of hope WE do not preach outselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord. 2 Corinthians 4:5.

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

Outrageous outfits: Barry Philp, and Warren and Vicky Kennedy.

Left Talking fun: Bernadette Granger and Leanne Taranto.

deaths

Paul & Margaret Beck proprietors Caring for our Community, personal digniﬁed service to all areas 5662 2717 Pre-need Funeral Plans available Ofﬁce and Chapel: 24 Anderson Street, Leongatha hfs1@vic.australis.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8315 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Excellency. 8, L-ate. 9, Tear. 10, P-L-ut-O. 11, Noon (rev.). 12, Stock-pile. 16, Ring a bell. 20, Eric (anag.). 22, Hop it. 23, Not-e. 24, Hole (whole). 25, Sure-footed. Down - 1, Ex-tent. 2, Re-trace. 3, Slip up (rev.). 4, Uncurl. 5, N-ylon. 7, S-to-ol. 13, Inn (in). 14, A-band-on. 15, Prior. 17, Imp-Art. 18, Get off. 19, Letter. 21, C-he’s-s. QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8315 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Bluebottle. 8, Acid. 9, Limp. 10, Prior. 11, Toll. 12, Destitute. 16, Pineapple. 20, Spot. 22, Easel. 23, Rota. 24, Trip. 25, Indisposed. Down - 1, Plaice. 2, Respite. 3, Poppet. 4, Strict. 5, Heart. 7, Field. 13, Urn. 14, Sparrow. 15, Spurn. 17, Inside. 18, Enlist. 19, Letter. 21, Tepid.

Rotarian event: Kerrie Baker with Col and Chris McHarg.

With music provided by Scott Hogan’s super group, The Flashbacks, including the everlasting songs of ABBA, the theme for the evening, “Saturday Night Live”, seemed most appropriate. Although the primary objective was to raise funds for Rotary’s various local community support projects, all present thoroughly enjoyed a most convivial and memorable night out. With proceeds gathered from attendances, sponsorships, and auctions of donated goods and services, well over $20,000 was raised. An important recipient of funds raised will be the Rotary Turkish Students Exchange Program which has been the focus of special nurturing by the club over the last three years. This initiative was conceived by Rotary, when it acted as the facilitator to combine its resources with those of the local RSL sub branch and the three local secondary education colleges. The goal of the program is to inform and actively involve youth in their history and appreciate the past sacrifices of their forebears who sought to preserve our national freedoms and way of life. Under the program, one student from each of the colleges is sponsored each year to travel on a month long goodwill,

cultural and educational excursion to Turkey, ending with the unforgettable experience of attending the dawn service at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli on April 25. This is followed later in the year by a reciprocal exchange by Turkish students to Leongatha. Other funds raised on the night will be applied to other club projects including Rotary’s Centenary House at Traralgon. This facility was established by Rotary to provide accommodation for those obtaining specialist treatment for cancer and related illnesses at the adjacent hospital. Rotary president Paul Beck said the club was pleased with the results of the evening, particularly as it is appreciated that many in the community are affected by the difficult current economic conditions. He said the club is especially grateful to all those sponsors who participated, as their support was essential in underwriting the success of the evening (see ad in today’s public notices). The next major community event on Leongatha Rotary’s calendar is its annual Show and Shine and Swap exposition, this Sunday, March 11 at the Leongatha Velodrome, Roughead Street, Leongatha. This family fun and entertainment day is a must, especially for those with even the remotest interest in automobiles and wheeled vehicles. With fine weather predicted and a large field of entrants expected, the club is inviting all members of the community to attend and join in the fun. More photos in next week’s Star.

At 100, Trixie feels far from ancient TRIXIE Mackay reckons she does not feel 100-years-old. “I don’t feel ancient,” she quipped. “I just do everything that is around and do all the things here.” “Here” is her home at Domain Seahaven, Inverloch’s aged care hostel. The sprightly centenarian celebrated her birthday on Friday, February 24 and joined with family the following day to mark the milestone. “I’m not bothered about the age. I just lived and the age never worried me. To be honest, I’ve never been sick. If you are going to be healthy, you are going to be healthy,” she said. Trixie married Syd Mackay in Dandenong in 1952 and the couple settled on a farm at Powells Road, Kilcunda. They milked dairy cows and ran beef cattle until 1986 when they retired from the farm and moved into Wonthaggi. During the time on the farm, they were involved in the local church, and Trixie was in the ladies guild and CWA. The pair was involved with local schools and took their children Ian and

Sharon to tennis and football on Saturdays and church on Sundays. In retirement, Trixie was more active than ever, going to church and other meetings several times a week. She continued to be a lay preacher with the Uniting Church until her mid 80s, delivered meals on wheels, regularly visited at the hospital and other nursing homes, and worked in the op shop every week to help raise needed funds for the hospital. Trixie kept active, walking to all her meetings and activities. Until her early 90s, she also walked up to 8km a day for fitness. She was always knitting something to send to someone, or making a cake for someone, and read for relaxation. In 2006 at the age of 94, Ian bought a business in Wonthaggi and in the first week, Trixie was in the door saying she wished she was a few years younger and she would be helping out every day. She has been fiercely independent and only moved into Seahaven last July aged over 99.

In spotlight: Trixie Mackay celebrates her 100th birthday with son Ian Mackay and daughter Sharon Thompson.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 59

Elite coaching develops our swimmers

Happy swimmers: Lani Bellingham and Amber Turner meet with Traralgon’s head coach Brian Ford after their coaching session.

LEONGATHASwimming Club enhanced the techniques of 35 of their members with a special coaching day on Saturday, March 3. The swim clinic was conducted by Brian Ford, who is the head coach of the Traralgon Swimming Club, with emphasis on butterfly and backstroke. Mr Ford is silver licensed and has many years of experience coaching swimming. Traralgon is the number one country swimming club in Victoria and the fifth most successful in Victoria. Traralgon has enjoyed great success with their swimmers at elite level. Mikaela Cornelissen from Leongatha is now training with Traralgon with national titles coming up soon.

The boys: Mary MacKillop Secondary College swimmers take some time out to pose for a photo.

In the spirit: these girls cheer on the swimmers.

Mary MacKillop house sports WITH swimming fever gripping the area, Mary MacKillop College staged their own house sports at Mirboo North pool recently.

Mellow yellow: Alice Lindsay showed her support for her yellow team. The sun was out, so we’re hoping she didn’t peel later on! She is pictured with Ben Thomas.

Coaching day: some of the swimmers in the first class of coaching with Brian Ford (back) of Traralgon Swimming Club. Coach meets the coaches: helping conduct the coaching clinic were, from left, Lyn Skillern, Georgia Kaye-Helmot, Caroline Bissett, Brian Ford and Matt Pickersgill. Get moving: this group of walkers really enjoys the exercise walking gives, plus it is a great social outlet.

Stepping out TIDES in Leongatha FOR those of you who have decided on getting fit and walking more this year, then why not come and join in with the new Heart Foundation Walking Group in Leongatha. Group organiser and Health Promotion officer for Gippsland Southern Health Service, Julia Lomas believes that as we head to the cooler months “it really is an ideal time of year to get active again, and walking is an easy, social and low cost way to exercise.” Varied types of walks have been arranged and there should be something there for all. “Whether you are after a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk we encourage everyone to get involved,” Access for All Abilities manager at GippSport Daniel Poynton said. “Walking can be tailored to your specific ability and even a small walk helps your health.” In the case of bad weather the group will walk inside SPLASH. This new group will walk every Tuesday at 1.30pm, starting from South Gippsland SPLASH in Leongatha. The group’s first walk was Tuesday February 7. For more information and to register please call 5667 5648.

Action packed: walkers take to the course for the first Heart Foundation Walking Group in Leongatha last week.

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

MARCH Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

7 WED

8 THUR

9 FRI

10 SAT

11 SUN

12 MON

13 TUE

0321 1004 1547 2315

0.76 1.17 0.47 1.30

0441 1124 1705

0.67 1.25 0.46

0011 0550 1230 1814

1.37 0.53 1.37 0.44

0100 0645 1329 1908

1.44 0.39 1.49 0.42

0144 0732 1419 1955

1.50 0.25 1.59 0.40

0225 0818 1508 2040

1.54 0.15 1.65 0.41

0305 0904 1555 2124

1.56 0.09 1.66 0.43

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

PAGE 60 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Korumburra swims for glory KORUMBURRA Secondary College swimmers went all out for their house teams to see who would come out on top in the sports held recently. And the winner was - McDonald House.

Keen swimmer: McMillan house captain Lucas Baido spent a fair about of time in the pool.

Supporters: Brock Dorling, Jasper Macri and Marty Snooks (back) were supporting their friends at the KSC swimming sports.

Dressed to impress: Beau Stewart was being green for the day to support his house. Right: Winners: McDonald (red) house came out on top at the Korumburra Secondary College swimming sports recently and house captains Kyle Arestia and Ash Parr were happy to accept the trophy.

Relay team: (from left) James Downie, Nick Wylie, Josh Wyhoon and Will Lumby were ready to race as a team at the KSC swimming sports.

Giving it all: Daniel O’Flaherty draws breath as he nears the finish line.

All smiles: Brittany Staples, Lauren Trani and Ash Parr at the KSC swimming sports.

Age group champions: (back, from left) Liam McCall (u17), Lachie Harms (u13), Zach Walker (u16), Kim Hillberg (u21), Cam Trewin (u14), (front) Katharine Harms (u14), Katelyn Adkins (u16), Gemma Dixon (u15), Emily O’Brien (u13), Hannah Engle (u17), Bailey Nicholas (u15) and Kyle Arestia (u21).

Great friends: Kim Hillberg, Kiara Arestia, Emma Salmon, Ellen Sorrell, Darcy Gorman and Kristie Brinksma were enjoying the KSC swimming sports.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 61

School strength: the Newhaven team was well represented at the division sports. The winning 11 and under relay team are pictured from left, Juliette Townsend, Molly Kosken, Scarlette Beaton and Lily Roney. Molly also won her individual butterfly event.

Sale bound: heading to Sale to compete in regionals are Inverloch swimmers, from left, Walter Hutton, Ben Chapman, Alex McEntee, Jack Hutchinson, and James Mercer.

Well represented: Leongatha Primary School will have several swimmers at regionals, included in these are, from left, Taylah Brown, Kyle Brown, Oscar Harry and Jessica Harry.

SCHOOLS from Newhaven through to Foster including Korumburra, Leongatha, and the Combined Registered Schools competed in cool conditions at Korumburra last Thursday. They were competing in the primary schools division swimming sports. Swimmers who were successful at this meet go on to compete in the region sports at Sale on Wednesday, March 14. From Sale, winners will go on to the state titles in Melbourne.

Combined team: the Combined Registered team (St Laurences, St Josephs, and South Coast Christian College) will have several swimmers heading to regionals, back row, Justin Hibma, Kate Abbey, Georgia Blogg, front, Merrin Giles, Rubi Panozzo, and Emily Chalmers.

Secondary schools Locals lead to swim victory face off in the pool South Gippsland secondary schools combined for swimming championships at Korumburra on Tuesday, February 28.

Age champions: back row from left Rhett Boscombe-Hill, Mikaela Cornelissen, Molly Edwards, Harriet Bates, Jennifer McFee, Anthony Foon and Alek Ryan. From row l-r: Kim Hillberg, Nicki Stockdale, Siobhan Hall, Liam McCall, Lachlan Harms and Oliver Bates. Left: Handicap winners: from left girls handicap winner Rosalie Marshal from Mirboo North, boys handicap winner Mitch Allitt from South Gippsland Secondary College and overall handicap winner, Callum Alexander from Mirboo North.

Champions: from left Tom Hamilton from Wonthaggi, Harriet Bates from Wonthaggi and Anthony Foon, also from Wonthaggi.

THE region had its best ever representation in the Gippsland District Swimming team, which competed at the Victorian Country Inter District swimming competition held at Melbourne Sports and aquatic Centre (MSAC) on Saturday, February 25. Ten local swimmers: Emily Goode, Oscar Harry, Jacob Kiley, Locke De Garis, Michaela Cornelissen, Bowen Gough, Lochie Nunn, Charlee Gough, Beau Van Agtamal and Georgia Kaye-Helmot competed for the Gippsland team, in an action packed competition with 64 events. Each country district is represented by its best age group swimmer in individual events. Relays are also a key part of the event and competition is fierce as the top four age group swimmers from each district battle it out in both medley and freestyle relays. The Gippsland team once again proved it is the premier country swimming district in Victoria, winning the prestigious Bill Wilmott Trophy awarded to the district scoring the highest aggregate points over all events. Gippsland won the

Top swimmers: Locals involved in the first placing Gippsland team at Victorian Country Inter District swimming competition were Oscar Harry, Charlee Gough, Bowen Gough, Georgia Kaye-Helmot, Michaela Cornelissen, Jacob Kiley, Beau Van Agtmaal, Locke De Garis, Emily Goode, Lochie Nunn. award with a total of 1265 points, followed by Geelong in second place. Gippsland has now won this trophy for a very impressive 18 consecutive years. A highlight for selected team members was a pre-meet motivational talk by Olympic swimmer Ashley Delaney. Ashley began his swimming career in Gippsland and was a member of the inter-district team when he was a junior swimmer. He emphasised how honoured the swimmers should be to have been selected to be part of the Gippsland team which has such a proud history of success in this competition.

Despite the extreme heat, local swimmers were outstanding on the day, contributing significantly to Gippsland’s overall point tally and ultimate success. Individual results were: Oscar Harry - boys 10 years, - 1st - 50m backstroke, 1st - 50m freestyle, 1st - 50m butterfly, 1st - medley relay, 1st freestyle relay. Charlee Gough - girls 15/16 years - 1st 100m butterfly, 1st - medley Relay, 1st freestyle relay. Bowen Gough - boys 13/14 years, - 1st medley relay, 1st freestyle relay, 2nd - 100m butterfly, 2nd 100m backstroke, Georgia Kaye-Helmot

- girls 17 years and over - 1st freestyle relay, 1st medley relay, 5th 50m freestyle, Michaela Cornelissen - girls 13/14 Years, - 1st freestyle relay, 1st medley relay, Jacob Kiley - boys 10 years, - 1st freestyle relay, 1st medley relay, Beau Van Agtmaal - boys 15/16 years - 1st freestyle relay, 1st medley relay, Locke De Garis- boys 11/12 years - 3rd medley relay, 2nd freestyle relay, Emily Goode girls 10 and under - 2nd medley relay, Lochie Nunn - boys 13/14 years, 5th 100m breaststroke.

PAGE 62 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Leongatha PERSISTENT rain, combined with the recent work on the greens, made golf impossible on Saturday. The A.E. Edney fourball board event will be rescheduled, though it will not be this month with championships coming up. Tuesday Keith Macfarlane was player of the day, mastering the slow greens to record 39 points, three clear of a batch on 36. Geoff Maher got the nod for runners-up after a countback. A visitor from Monash Golf Club had a good day, scoring 36 points and winning nearest the pin on both the 14th and 16th holes. Balls went to the following: A. Howell, B. Stevens, E. Poole, J. Lowell, K. Finney 36; J. Cummins, M. Oliver, D. Vorwerg, B. Jamieson, K. Godridge 35. Thursday A big field was booked in to play in the event sponsored by L.J. Hooker, but a wet track saw several scratchings and this sponsor’s day will be replayed. President Chris Leaver has been having a ball since returning from his health scare. After his albatross last week, he took out A Grade with 38 points, a good score in the conditions. Ian Nunn also notched 38 points to win B Grade. Ken Gardner and Grant McRitchie were nearest the pin winners. Down the line balls: H. Seddelies, I. Purbrick 36; D. Hanna, S. Fisher, G. McRitchie 35; A. Nilsson, P. Jaspers 34; R. McCann 33, T. Moss 32, R. Nelson 31. The Col Sperling day is this Thursday, with a stableford on Saturday. The next three Saturdays will be championship stroke rounds. Pennant is fast approaching and if you can use your talent to help the club out for a few weeks, put your name on the list in the Ken Macdonald room.

Sunday nine hole competition Sunday was a pleasant golf day in spite of the wet Saturday. Eight teams played in the final round of the season, with the Young Guns winning the Gordon West Memorial Shield by three points from the 7 Up team. The ladies’ best gross winner was Wendy Brown with 41 strokes. Barry Attwood scored 36 to win the men’s best gross. Wendy Brown also had the ladies best net with 41-11-30. Jeremy McCarthy scored the men’s best net with 41-13½-27½. Ken Gardiner won nearest the pin on the 14th. The trophies of the day were won by Kit’s Litter. This competition has been played for 29 years and this year’s top four teams were: The Young Guns 41 points, 7-Up 38, The

Floggers 23, The Sharks 22. A big thank you to our sponsors Kevin and Deborah Scott of South Gippsland Boarding Kennels and Cattery. A barbecue and salad lunch was enjoyed after the presentation. Next season commences on Sunday October 7.

Ladies Wednesday, February 29 Forty-one ladies played par sponsored by Pat West. Pat Pease (19) +1 won A Grade, B Grade was Libby Seebeck (32) +2 and C Grade went to Glenyce McRobert (37) +2 on countback from Faye Quilford. Down the line balls went to Faye Quilford +2, Bev Martin sq, Marianne Lever sq, Pat Moore sq, Wendy Parker -1, Joy Runge -1, Nancy Sperling -1, Helen MacKenzie -1, Toni West -2, Coral Gray -2 on countback. Nearest to pin: 14th Faye Quilford; 16th Joan Scott. Friday, March 2 Sunny skies greeted players for the always very popular annual Evelyn Indian Ambrose Shield Day. Sixteen teams keenly contested for the fabulous prizes donated by Evelyn. Congratulations to all the winners and we hope to see everyone back again next year. Our own Rebecca Thomas (4) (who on Thursday won the Cranbourne Club Championship for the 4th time) led the Cranbourne team to victory, combining very well with Kath Griffiths (+1), Julie Penny (13) and Maureen Withers (20) shooting an amazing 8 under 64 off the stick (4-1/2) 59 -1/2 net. Runners-up were Meeniyan 1 Team - Faye LePage, Dot Christie, Faye Smallman, Veronica Park with net 597/8. The Visitors’ Trophy was won by Meeniyan 2 team - Tania Thorson, Gwen Heppell, Kristen Elliott, Linda Brown with 60-3/8 net. The busiest golfers were the Box Hill Team - Marlene Rea, Maureen Ryan, Jo O’Reilly, Nancy Smith. Nearest the pins: 4th Kristen Elliott, 7th Lee Clements, 14th Maxine Eabry, 16th Rebecca Thomas. Down the line balls: Leongatha 6 - Carol Sowden, Fay Quilford, Maria Bell, Helen MacKenzie 61-1/4, Traralgon - Carol Baker, Daphne Ellen, Sheryl Barker, Ann Bland 64-3/8, Leongatha 5 - Ann Blundy, Marianne Leaver, Jill Steer, Leslie Renwick 645/8, Leongatha 1 - Wendy Brown, Jocelyn Howson, Pat Moore, Glenyce McRobert 64-5/8, Leongatha 3 - Julie Howard, Wendy Parker, Maxine Eabry, Shirley Welsford.

Meeniyan gala day IT was the first time it had rained on the gala day since its beginning in 1997; however it didn’t deter the 97 entrants, including 36 women, who teed off on the day. The event major sponsor, Kelvin Johns Retravision had three players on course, including Kelvin Smith himself. The event is held at the Meeniyan golf course at the end of February each year and attracts players from the local area, with some travelling from as far as Melbourne to take part. Irene Holm, the lady captain of the Meeniyan Golf Club says it is the ‘best sponsored and patronised golf day in the district’. The course is in great condition, thanks to the curator David Thompson and his volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain it to such a high standard.

Mirboo North ON Wednesday February 29 the ladies Captain / Presidents Day matchplay competition was played. The winner was the presidents team. Nearest the pin 4th - Sue Traill. On March 3 the monthy medal - stroke competition was played. The sponsor was Colin Watson - Autumn Round. There were 28 starters and the CCR was 71. The day winner was C. Bracecamp (20) gross 89 net 69. The nearest the pin second shot first was Paul Woodall. Down the line: 1st A. Williams 71 countback, 2nd T. Donnison 71, I. Evison 72, S. Evison 73 countback. Nearest the pin: 4th T. Donnison. 6th P. Woodall, 16th J. Taylor. Birdies: J. Taylor and J. Hughes.

Golf clinic a success AROUND 30 keen golfers were improving their game at the Leongatha Golf Club recently. Michael Cull was taking the group through the art of golf and the best way to approach the game. “It’s a really good turnout of people,” he said. “And we’re already making some progress.” The first lesson was on swing and the structure of stroking the ball and slowly progressing from there. The group were thoroughly enjoying the lesson.

Above left Learning: Judy Bright and Garry Hayward were learning the art of golf from Michael Cull at the Leongatha Golf Club recently. Left Swinging: the first lesson was about getting the swing correct at the Leongatha Golf Club clinic.

Eighteenth hole: Kristen Elliott from Meeniyan Golf Club aims her final putt, while Glenice McRobert from Leongatha Golf Club (far left) and Pam Christensen, also of Leongatha look on and Linda Brown from Meeniyan holds the flag.

Woorayl THE rain last Saturday certainly didn’t affect some of the players. We held a par event sponsored by John and Ash Hickey. The A Grade winner with plus one was Col James and his son Mark won B with plus three. So he has bragging rights for a week. At least C Grade and the best score of the day went to Ted Martin with a great plus six. Balls were distributed to R. Gourlay, G. Fennell, D. Burge, G. Salmon, B. Fiek, J. Hickey and J. Redmond. The nearest the pins went to G. Calder and our captain. Next week we will play a fourball versus par event, which is also the qualifying round for the McLeod Knockout. The day will be sponsored by Kerry and Brenton McLeod. Don’t forget our Easter raffle night coming up. There will be prizes galore as well as a great meal and membership draw.

Korumburra

FIFTY-EIGHT players attended the first round championships on March 3. Trophies: Petit Jewellers and John Solly. The CCR was 70. A Grade: L. Sharp 70, S. Bromby 71, R. Johnson 73, L. Guilfoyle 74, M. Wrigley 74. B Grade: D. Gow 71, T. Jones 73, A. Worthy 73, I. Gibson 74, L. Herbert 75, J. Watts 75, P. Vanagtmaal 75. C Grade: D. Bronsema 68, G. Wilson 70, R. Young 71, M. Deleeuw 74. Putting: R. Johnson 29, P. Vanagtmaal 27 and J. Wilson 31.C. Clasby, 7th D. Bronsema, 10th L. Sharp, 13th S. McIvor. NAGA: M. Bull 98. Tuesday’s winner was P. Vanagtmaal 40 points. Thursday winner was C. Clements 36 points. Goyne Handicapp: D. Bronsema 68. Parry Scratch: S. Bromby 73. Juniors: T. Jones 73. Notices: A Grade scratch S. Bromby 73 points. Handicapp L. Sharp 70. B Grade scratch C. Gow 85. C Grade scratch I. Gibson 89, handicap D. Worthy 73. D Grade D. Bronsema 93.25.68.

Foster A GOOD dose of rain and the course is back to perfect, with the ground a little bit softer and greens holding well. Friday’s chicken run had Bernie Amesreiter showing glimpses of his old form and returned the good score of 21 pts to take home the chook. The down the line balls went to Gary Clavarino, Steve Reid and new member Dean Walker – all on 19 pts . The nearest the pins were won by Geoff Nott and Gary Phelan. Saturday was Medal Day for the R and J Prain trophies but the heavens opened and although a few brave souls turned up, none decided to brave the weather. It was decided to make next Saturday the monthly medal day, in combination with the last Nelander trophy round.

Progressive Stig Nelander scores with one round to go, Chris Foulds has a big lead of 121 points, then follows Norm Cooper 113, Brian Robinson 112, Noel Black 109 and Trevor Jones 109. Our tournament is next week and Thursday, March 15 is Ladies Day and Mens Ambrose (teams of 4), Friday being Mens and Ladies 4BBB, Saturday is Mens Day and Sunday the Mixed Canadian. Kevin Witheridge was not on hand to collect the $500, so it remains available next week. You must be in the clubhouse between 7pm and 8 pm to be eligible to win the cash. Some coming events include Thursdays’ Stableford, the Friday Foodworks chicken run. Saturday will see the final round of the Stig Nelander Trophy and Monthly Medal for trophies from R and J Prain.

Champions: winners of the Leongatha Golf Club 9-Hole competition the Young Guns are, from left, Barry Attwood, Andy Cairns (kneeling), Peter Rayson, Wendy Brown, Russell Williams, Marilyn Williams and Nic Cairns. Absent is Rob Brown.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 63

Korumburra parlor bowls KORUMBURRA Parlor Bowls held its Open Doubles competition on Thursday, March 1 and Jumbunna’s Brian Enbom once again showed that patient, accurate bowling together with a determined partner was the key to becoming an Open Doubles champion. Brian paired with his brother-in-law, Ken Nicholas to secure his second doubles championship (2011 and 2012) whilst it was Ken’s second win as well. His earlier win was in 1992 when his partner was Brian’s father, Gus. Both men’s odds have

Inverloch Ladies

CONGRATULATIONS to our first division for getting to the next level in pennant. They played Yallourn at Yallourn in very adverse conditions and unfortunately were beaten after starting off very well. Social bowls last Wednesday saw 14 ladies participate. Winners on the day were Veronica Muir, Sue Nation, Edith Perrett and Shirley Cook. Raffle winners were Yvonne Kee, Chris Gillman and Margaret Goss. Some dates for your diary include the ladies general meeting which will be held Tuesday, March 13 at 10am, the ladies monthly triples which are on Wednesday, March 14 at 10am and the Friday night dinner is on March 16.

now shortened to favouritism for the Open Singles championship to be held in April. Korumburra’s Open Doubles is a cut-throat tournament as only each winning pair progresses to the next round. Ken and Brian luckily drew a bye in the first round and they made the most of it. They played a tight first game and then demolished their semi-final opponents, Vince Sgarioto and Lee Armstrong who were having a topsy-turvy night with difficult and easier games. In the other semi-final, Joanna Lomagno and new bowler, Andy Marshall had already survived tied games which required extra

Dumbalk indoor ON Monday February 27 there were 14 players in two ends of four and two ends of two. Best 1st game Frank 21-3, 2nd game 2-13-5. We played two ends of 10. A big thank you to the Mardan players for coming down and helping with the night. It was a very pleasant night of bowls. We held a minute’s silence for our club member Morrie Parry. We will miss Morrie on Monday nights. We hope to see you all again next Monday night at 7.30pm.

ends to decide the winners. Their opponents, Geoff and Lynn McCord were equally delighted and shocked to find themselves in the semifinal. Both pairings played above their odds, knocking out more fancied pairings in earlier rounds. Joanna and Andy progressed to the grand final where they too met a rampant Ken and Brian who scored 10 shots in three ends, leaving Andy and Joanna trailing in their wake. President Keith Marshall was impressed with the standard of bowling throughout the night and congratulated all players and finalists on their results. Scores were: Round 1: Geoff and Lynn 6 d John

and Mick 2, Joe and Joyce 7 d Dorothy and Dennis 2. Round 2: Lee and Vince 6 d Keith and Ross 4, Joanna and Andy 5 d Arc and Sally 4, Ross and Josie 7 d Michael and Michael 4, Bev and Charlie 7 d Charlie and Mary 3. Round 3: Joanna and Andy 5 d Joe and Joyce 4, Lee and Vince 9 d Connie and Vincenza 3, Geoff and Lynn 8 d Bev and Charlie 7, Brian and Ken 8 d Ross and Josie 7. Semi-finals: Brian and Ken 11 d Lee and Vince 0, Joanna and Andy 6 d Geoff and Lynn 1. Grand final: Brian and Ken 11 d Joanna and Andy 2. Well done Ken and Brian!

Buffalo indoor

Ian Benson and Ian Hasty (WDW) 15 ends (+9) shots shared the evening with Carolyn Benson and Lee Armstrong (WDW) 14 ends (+10) shots (fittingly drew in their second game). The charity tin won, with $6 being deposited. Other teams: Robert Matthies (s), Peter Heldens and Joe Occhipinti (LWL) 10 ends and Toni Heldens, Joyce Occhipinti and Bill Wolswinkel (LLL) nine ends. Best 1st game Charlie 8/5, 2nd game Robert 5/3, 3rd game Lee 14/6. Thanks to prize donors and especially the ladies for the yummy supper. All welcome at 7.30pm to play or watch.

WEDNESDAY February 29: Cooler conditions at Buffalo this week but still plenty of excitement in the centre. A fun night when skippers had the opportunity to place kitty to their satisfaction. Robert M. chose the corners / edges - others liked short / long ends and some left kitty where it stopped when rolled up. This varied placement encouraged ‘draw’ bowling with many outstanding efforts and the inevitable bowls and kitty falling off the mats. After three games of six bowl triples / pairs we ended with a very unique result. Chadie Tumino (s),

Phillip Island edges in front WITH narrow wins at Mirboo North’s relay day and at Wonthaggi last Sunday, Phillip Island has

edged ahead of Leongatha in the race to the line in the South Gippsland Swimming Association

Family affair: the Hibma family helped Leongatha in the points table with all members swimming. Pictured are Justin, Natasha, mum Christine and Esther Hibma.

Revving the troops: one of Leongatha’s swimming captains Georgia Kaye-Helmot revs up the swimmers at relay day at Mirboo North recently.

carnival meetings. After a break for the long weekend, Phillip Island will host the last meet of the season on Sunday, March 18. And being the host club, Phillip Island stands a big chance to win the aggregate for the season after Leongatha claimed

the aggregate the previous two years. The only thing that will stop a Phillip Island win would be a huge turnout of Leongatha swimmers. It’s all set for an exciting conclusion to what has been another big carnival season.

Winners: M. Rayson, J. Todd and P. Flemming of Leongatha were the winners of the ladies triples tournament in Leongatha on Friday.

Left: Catch up: Denise Ryan of Yallourn and Lyn Harper of Fish Creek chatted while waiting to bowl at Leongatha on Friday.

Croquet OUR members have been playing in tournaments. Elvie Olden played at her best to win her section. Sandra Birch was a section winner as well. This tournament was enjoyed by 22 people from around the state. Cards are still being played on a Monday. Mary Ann Kinnish won cards this week. On a Monday afternoon Mirboo North children come and play under our tuition. Marge White was so thrilled to spend time with them as she was a student there in the 1940s. We wish our members well at Traralgon and then Morwell.

Ready to roll: Leongatha Swimming Club youngsters Neve Martin, Lani Bellingham, Merrin Giles, Emma Paterson and Jessica Harry were ready to do battle when they competed at the South Gippsland Swimming Association Relay Day recently at Mirboo North. Roz Giles: the Leongatha Swimming Club breaststroke specialist shows her style at Mir Mirboo North recently.

Having a go: members of the Leongatha Croquet Club with young people from Mirboo North Secondary College.

PAGE 64 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Wilcox in cup squad LOCAL cricketer Matt Wilcox has made a 30 man Australian squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup.

Imps Under 14s: Back L to R: Andrew Meyer (coach), Jack Van Der Kolk, Tom Van Der Kolk, Tim Sauvarin, Tom McFarlane, Brock Jones, Jack Ballagh, Jack Dunn, Gary Sauvarin (coach). Front L to R: Tom Barker, Zac Giles, Matt Windchester, Riley Smith, Harrison Marshall, Damon Ginnane, Tom Brew, Jordi Geary.

Imperials junior wind-up IMPERIALS junior cricketers will hold their wind-up social and trophy presentations this Thursday night at the East Campus oval, Leongatha starting at 6pm.

The Under 16s unfortunately didn’t get a start to their final’s match against Phillip Island due to a washout. With the Island finishing on top they will progress to the semis this week. The Imperials had a strong

• CRICKET

Under 16 1st semi final

WON WORKMENS v FISH CREEK-TARWIN 1st innings Fish Creek-Tarwin J. Buckland b. B. Evans .............. 40 H. Buckland lbw. b. Z. Macdermid...................... 27 R. McGannon b. J. Thomas ........ 13 B. Ellen b. J. Thomas .................... 1 G. Staley b. J. Thomas .................. 0 J. Flanders b. C. Waters .............. 12 M. McGannon c. A. Ferreire b. L. McLean ............................. 1 S. Pouw c. D. Turton b. C. Waters ............................... 0 A. Straw c. N. Bainbridge b. C. Waters ............................... 0 L. Buckland n.o. ............................ 2 A. Watkins n.o. .............................. 2 Extras.......................................... 31 Total ................................9/129 (cc)

Bowling: J.Thomas 3/17, Z. Macdermid 1/21, B. Bayne 0/10, L. McLean 2/29, B. Evans 1/18, C. Waters 2/16. 1st innings Won Workmens D. Turton c. R. McGannon b. J. Flanders............................ 32 B. Jeffries b. J. Buckland ............ 28 L. McLean c. M. McGannon b. A. Straw ............................... 29 J. Thomas stp. b. H. Buckland ........................ 26 A. Ferreire r.o. ............................... 1 N. Bainbridge n.o. ......................... 0 M. Davey n.o................................. 6 Extras...........................................11 Total .......................................6/134 Bowling: J. Flanders 1/21, A. Straw 2/26, J. Buckland 1/20, R. McGannon 0/14, H. Buckland 1/17, S. Pouw 0/7, M. McGannon 0/9, L. Buckland 0/6, B. Ellen 0/9.

Allambee Mirboo & District tennis AFTER a wet Saturday games were played on Sunday. Well done to everyone for making themselves available. A and A Reserve were all played at Leongatha, with the courts playing nicely after the rain. In A Grade Green men played well and won their three sets, the Koony ladies did well to keep the match even, three games to Green before the mixed. The first two mixed were won by Leongatha and an 11 game break, the third mixed was a tie-breaker. This left Koony out of the finals. In the second semi final, Baromi won two men’s and ladies’ sets to set up a win. Leongatha North won the first two mixed but not enough to catch up the games. Baromi won the match to go into the grand final. In A Reserve Outtrim played Korumburra in a very close game. The men’s sets were close with a slight advantage to Korumburra. Outtrim ladies played well to give Outtrim a one game lead before the mixed. Belinda and Matt played well to win against Jill and Greg. Noelene and Martin combined to win the second mixed. The Roches won the last set for Korumburra, but Korumburra’s season has ended. In the second semi final, Leongatha played well to lead before the mixed but lost all three mixed. Koonwarra won

enough to even the games and win by a set. Koony into the grand final. B Grade was played at Baromi. Korumburra had the lead in the men’s and ladies’ sets. Baromi won the first two mixed but only 7/5 each set. The last set went to Korumburra and Baromi are out of the finals this season. Outtrim played well to win over Foster in the second semi final. A tie-breaker in the first men’s set was the only close set in this match. Outtrim are into the grand final. Next week’s preliminary finals are all played at Leongatha. A Grade - Leongatha North v Leongatha Green; A Reserve - Leongatha v Outtrim; B Grade - Foster v Korumburra. Players who are not in the finals this week please help with setting up and tidying up, also umpiring where necessary. Teams, don’t forget raffle prizes. Tickets are selling well for presentation night, be sure to buy yours next week. Results A Grade: 1st semi - Leongatha Green 5.62 d Koonwarra 4.52; 2nd semi - Baromi 5.63 d Leongatha North 4.48. A Reserve: 1st semi Outtrim 5.41 d Korumburra 4.39; 2nd semi - Koonwarra 5.43 d Leongatha 4.43. B Grade: 1st semi - Korumburra 5.46 d Baromi 4.35; 2nd semi - Outtrim 7.49 d Foster 2.33.

junior line-up this season with 16, Under 14s registered for the season. The Under 14s got together for a season ending photo despite their final match being washed out.

Mid-week ladies tennis THE season has got off to a great start, other than a few washouts along the way. My apologies for not including the ladders in the paper before now, however each week at least one score sheet has not turned up until Monday, which is too late for me to get it in. This week we are in luck. Please remember to write fill ins and new players on the back of your score sheet and

Ladders Section 1 Wonthaggi ...............................17 Inverloch Silver ......................17 Inverloch Gold........................14 Leongatha ............................... 11 Phillip Island ..............................9 Bena ...........................................5 Section 2 Foster Yellow...........................17 Foster Black ............................17 Wonthaggi Ducks ...................13 Bena ......................................... 11 Wonthaggi Swans.....................10 Wonthaggi Herons......................2

if you could get them in the mail by Wednesday I should receive them by Friday and be able to get up to date ladders in the papers every couple of weeks. There are a couple of clubs who have still not paid their $20 per team affiliation fees – you know who you are! Please pay them as soon as possible. If you would like the ladder emailed, please email me at kaz.egan@hotmail.com (one member per team please) and I will let you know every couple of weeks. Section 3 Korumburra Cats ..................19 Phillip Island...........................14 Inverloch Blue ........................13 Wonthaggi ...............................12 Nyora........................................10 Korumburra Red ......................10 Inverloch Pink ............................4 Section 4 Inverloch .................................17 Grantville ................................17 Leongatha ...............................15 Korumburra Hotties ..............14 Phillip Island ............................12 Wonthaggi ..................................4 Korumburra Belles .....................3

Girls cricket gets boost MORE than 100 girls from the Gippsland region will continue to have their chance to showcase their talents in front of state and national cricket selectors thanks to Victorian Coalition Government funding of $4000 to support the 2012 Gippsland Girls Cricket Carnival. Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty joined the Member for Morwell Russell Northe, the Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood and the Member for East Gippsland Tim Bull to announce funding towards the staging of this event last week. “The Victorian Coalition Government is delighted to provide this funding boost to ensure this popular Gippsland event continues,” Mr Delahunty said. “Since 2004, the annual under 16 Gippsland Girls Cricket Carnival has grown from 40 to over 100 participants, bringing together teams stretching from

Orbost to Korumburra in a battle for regional honours. “The carnival provides an opportunity in the local area for teenage girls to play against quality opposition and push for selection in Gippsland representative teams as well as the Gippsland Girls Pathways Squads. “Thanks to events like these, junior female cricketers can improve their skills and their all round knowledge of the game. “By providing pathways for young people to become involved and excel in sport, whatever their gender or ability, we can encourage them to participate in sport throughout their lives and inspire more people to be more active, more often,“ Mr Delahunty said. Mr Delahunty commended event organisers Cricket Victoria for their ongoing commitment to female cricket through the Gippsland Girls Cricket Carnival.

Commenting on the squad, Cricket Australia Talent Manager Greg Chappell said: “The ICC U19 Cricket World Cup is the pinnacle for young players aspiring to international cricket and the Youth Selection Panel has picked a talented and versatile preliminary squad of 30 from which we will then select the final squad in the middle of the year.” If Matt makes the final squad he will help his team defend the World Cup title in August this year. “I’m sure all the players are look-

ing forward to continuing their development as part of this preliminary squad,” Mr Chappell said. “Quite a few players already have experience playing at U19 international level and more players will get that opportunity over the coming months.” “These experiences continue to aid their development and we are seeing their skills progress and refine. Matt has also been given the February nomination for the Cricket Victoria Future Stars Award, the winner to be announced on April 4 at the Awards Gala at the Crown Palladium.

Mirboo North Junior Tennis THE premiers of the Mirboo North Junior Tennis Association were decided on Sunday. It was a fine morning which saw some really tight finals with excellent sporting behaviour shown by all players. A Grade had Leongatha Federer (4 sets 31 games) defeat Baromi Panthers (2 sets 23 games). Fish Creek White (3 sets 22 games) defeated Leongatha North (3 sets 20 games) in B Grade and Baromi (4 sets 24 games) defeated (Fish Creek 0 sets 15 games) to snag the C Grade title. Congratulations to all teams who played in the past season.

Winners: A Grade premiers in the Mirboo North Junior Tennis Association were Leongatha Federer (clockwise from top left), Nick Argento, Anthony Argento, Jordan Nagel, and Elise Dowling

South Gippsland Field and Game AFTER several days of windy wet weather we were glad that Sunday was a reasonable day for the 75 target pre duck season shoot at Hallston.

Many of the 64 shooters that turned up were there to get their eye in for the 2012 duck hunting season. Winners on the day were; A Grade: J. White 64, M. Carter 55, J. Passarin 55. B Grade:

Leongatha basketball ladders A Grade Men Round 2 results NBA Ballers 32 v Rollers 39;Amberfluids 44 v Predators 37 Rollers ..........................130.64 6 Predators ...................... 110.29 4 Amberfluids ...................93.67 4 NBA Ballers ....................72.72 2 B Grade Men Round 3 results Grain Train 34 v What a Team 34; Macca Mad Boys 58 v Gatha Tigers 46;Semi Pro 28 v Timberwolves 50;The who knows 48 v Tropics 26;Bye: Magic Magic ............................248.57 9 Macca Mad Boys .........143.56 9 The Who Knows ........... 168.11 8 What a Team..................115.27 8 Timberwolves................ 114.00 7 Grain Train ......................96.55 5 Gatha Tigers ....................50.00 5 Tropics ............................58.39 3 Semi Pro ..........................57.25 3 Under 17 Boys Round 2 results Royal Blue 35 v Red 10;Black 33 v Silver 21;Green 28 v Maroon 39 Royal Blue ....................350.00 5 Black .............................157.14 5 Maroon ..........................139.28 5 Green..............................71.79 3 Silver ...............................63.63 3 Red ..................................28.57 3 Under 14 Boys Round 2 results Maroon 15 v Black 9;Red 46 v Green 14;Silver 45 v Royal Blue 28

Red................................310.76 6 Silver.............................158.00 6 Royal Blue .....................129.63 4 Maroon...........................58.00 4 Green ...............................45.00 2 Black ...............................31.57 2 Under 12 Boys Round 2 results Blue 20 v Maroon 18;Light Blue 12 v Black 16;Red 16 v Silver 20 Silver.............................164.28 6 Black .............................125.00 6 Red.................................137.50 4 Blue.................................95.23 4 Maroon ............................65.21 2 Light Blue .......................54.54 2 Under 10 Mixed Round 2 results Silver 19 v Maroon 14; Black 16 v Green 10;Red 22 v Royal Blue Black ..............................155.55 6 Silver..............................155.00 6 Red.................................142.85 4 Maroon ............................85.71 3 Royal Blue........................65.78 3 Green................................57.14 2 Under 16 Girls Round 2 results Purple 14 v Royal Blue 18 Red 15 v Silver 19 Bye: Gold Silver..............................252.38 6 Royal Blue .....................128.57 6 Purple ............................200.00 4 Gold .................................17.64 4 Red...................................36.58 2

S. White 60, R. Hemphill 58, P. Bowker 56. C Grade: T. Smallman 54, D. Rodrigues 51, R. Pentland 46. Ladies: M. Hogan 42, D. Wood 39, J. Jacobs 38. Veterans: J. Tait 56, G. Hart 52, J. Robbins 48. Juniors: D. Rodrigues 58, K. Pentland 52, B. Ayres 48. The club is again willing to run another training night for anyone wanting to sit their Waterfowl Identification Test. We have some people that are interested, but we need a few more to make it possible. Anyone wanting to do the training can ring Geoff Cooper 0408 623 738. Life member and staunch supporter of South Gippsland Field and Game, Faye Arnup passed away recently. A heart attack several years ago restricted her ability to be more active in a club that she loved, of which she was one of the founding members. Faye was not a shooter but was a great support to her husband Harry who was president for a number of years and although she never held an office, some would say that she ran the club. She was a strong individual who held everyone’s respect and always had time to talk to members and guests. She also ran a very successful canteen at the club with another long time supporter Pearl Sommers. It was Faye’s passion to nurture young shooters and she was known throughout the ranks of Field and Game. We will all miss her.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 65

Boardriders compete at Darby River SOUTH Coast Boardriders recently held their second contest at Darby River (Wilsons Promontory) in sunshine and good three to four foot waves.

There was a good turn up of club members to surf in the contest sponsored by Balin, with Junior, Open and over 40s divisions being held. First in the water was the Open, with Derek Bassed showing the form which made him a standout in the Victorian titles recently. Derek produced a couple of huge backhand re-entries which had the judges frothing. Next up was the Ju-

niors, and Zach Redpath continued his good form with a couple of long waves from out the back right through to the beach. Zach is developing a lot of power in his surfing and unleashed some smooth on – rail turns to advance to the final. The over 40s were sent out in deteriorating conditions and we saw a dominant display from the old master Freddy Dent. While most competitors struggled to find a decent wave, Fred snuck down the beach and picked off a beautiful tube to easily win this division. One judge even gave the wave a near perfect nine out of 10 ! In the final of the ju-

niors Ben Chalmers started strongly, and was leading before Kelly Laity and then Zach Redpath both overtook him, Kelly riding a Shearwater quad fin looking loose in the crumbly left handers. The open final was of a very high standard with Derek starting out with a high scoring left and then Tim Baxter a powerful reentry on a right. Tim could not get that all important second scoring wave and this allowed Kelly Laity to grab second place late in the final with a long left hander that she rode all the way to the beach. Overall there was a high standard of competition in not such perfect conditions.

The club thanks Balin for their continued support of their contests. Our next competition is on our annual camping weekend at the Prom on March 17 – 18. Keep an eye on our facebook page for more details. Results Derek Open: 1st nd Bassed, 2 Kelly Laity, 3rd Timmy Baxter and 4th Ben Chalmers. Juniors: 1st Zack Redpath, 2nd Kelly Laity, 3rd Ben Chalmers and 4th Riley Walker. Over 40s: 1st Fred Dent, 2nd Paul ONeill, 3rd Pete Mclaraty and 4th G. Laity.

Inverloch hosts lifesaving champs

Nikki makes SurfGirl TV IT was lights, camera and action on the production of SurfGirl TV on the Gold Coast this week, in which Phillip Island surfer Nikki Van-Dijk featured with Australia’s top women surfers.

HUNDREDS of competitors converged on Inverloch’s Surf Beach for the sixth round of the Victorian Surf Lifesaving Championship on Sunday, February 26. The humid conditions troubled some competitors, but not the locals, with the local team of 20 performing well. The next step for the team is the state finals at Anglesea over the Labour Day weekend.

Tough competitors, great mates: Inverloch surf lifesavers Natalie Wabbis (left) and Erin Kerr (right) share a moment with Waratah Bay surf lifesaver Isabella Meagher.

Support crew: Stacey Argus and Cherrie Blizzard were there to cheer on the Invy boys.

Nine titles for athletes

ATHLETES from South Coast Athletics won a staggering nine Victorian titles at the Victorian Youth Track and Field Championships held at Lakeside Stadium, Albert Park last weekend. On the track South Coast athletes won five Victorian titles, with Mirboo North’s Sam Quirk leading the way winning the Men’s Under 20 5000m (15.50.64min) followed by South Coast’s total domination across the walk events claiming four Victorian titles and two silver medals. Victorian Walk Champions are: Cassie Raselli Under 20 Women 5km Walk (32.20.80min), Stephanie George Under 17 Women 5km Walk (26.25.16min), Lucas Taylor Under 17 Men 5k Walk (26.20.38min) and Jasmine Irshad Under 16 Women 3km Walk (15.16.26min PB). Both Josh Kaiser (U/20 5km Walk 24.41.19min) and Hayley George (U/14 Women 3km Walk 17.08.53min) placed 2nd in their walk events. The field events saw Eleanor Patterson (U/17 Women High Jump 1.81m), Mitchell Green (U/17 Men Hammer throw 38.99m), Ben Green (U/15 Men’s Pole Vault 2.80m) and Patrick Ryan (U/18 Men’s Hammer throw 57.73m) continue their dominance in their respective events, easily defending their Victorian title. Wesley Graeme recorded a new PB of 5.80m in the Men’s U/14 Long Jump to take out second place, narrowly missing the gold by 7cms. In the Men’s U/14 High Jump Wesley placed 2nd with a leap of 1.75m, with fellow clubman Julian Patterson taking out 3rd with his performance of 1.65m. Bronze medals went to Lucas Taylor in the Men’s U/17 Hammer Throw and Lauren Goldie in the U/20 Women’s Javelin (28.22m). Lauren (7th U/20 SP 8.43m, 10th U/20 Discus 27.64m) along with Kodie Spokes (6th U/20 Men’s SP 12.18m, 11th Javelin 33.31m) performed exceptionally well as bottom age athletes in the Under 20 division. SharnaWarry was competitive over the weekend, placing 4th in the U/16 Long Jump (4.68m), 6th U/16 Javelin and 7th in the U/16 Triple Jump (10.47m). Eleven South Coast athletes will travel to Sydney on March 14 to compete in the Australian Junior Championships.

Open winner: Derek Bassed at Darby River during the open final.

Cool response: Inverloch surf lifesavers T.J. Blizzard, Gibson Crampton and Corie Argus-Smith were ready to give their all when their club hosted the State Summer Surf Series Carnival on Sunday. The competition drew hundreds of competitors from around Victoria.

The one hour program will profile Nikki as well as top Australian competitors - Stephanie Gilmore, Sally Fitzgibbons, Tyler Wright, Laura Enever and Rebecca Woods – as they progress through the Australian leg of the 2012 Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Women’s World Tour, which officially kicked off with the commencement of the Roxy Pro at Snapper Rocks.

The show will also include coverage of the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach and the Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic Sydney. It will be broadcast on an Australian free to air network following the Beachley Classic. Nikki has also been named in the TravelSIM Team Australia that will contest the International Junior Championships in Panama in April this year. She is the only Victorian surfer to make the team. This feat led to her also taking out January’s junior bankmecu Gippstar award last month.

Local surf star: Phillip Island Surfer Nikki Van-Dijk (second from left) will be featured on SurfGirl TV with other Australian surfing girls Stephanie Gilmore, Sally Fitzgibbons, Tyler Wright, Laura Enever and RebeccaWoods.

• LEONGATHA CYCLING

Track season ends with action IT was a big night of action for the last night of track season. The club had a large number of riders, bikes on display care of Bianchi Cycles and Wheelheat and pizza to eat at the end of the night. Despite being a cool and windy night there was plenty of stiff competition on the track and some great finishes to the races. The conditions were not conducive to personal bests but some riders still managed to clock in new best times. In the one lap time trial openers for the night’s racing both Alex Bennett and Aaron Fraser recorded new personal bests. However in the junior division Josh Chiavaroli was quickest at 36.19 sec followed by Will Lumby 37.36 sec and then a great lap from Aaron at 38.23 sec. Having his first night at

racing was 10-year-old Cody Cox. After doing a 61 sec lap at training, Cody chalked up a new personal best of 55.93 sec. Although keen later in the night to do better the first effort was the one to record for next season as a target. In the senior division the times were all pretty close. Ronald Purtle at 31.68 sec was just .02 sec quicker than Thomas McFarlane. Lachie Matthews rode a solid 33.68 sec to just edge out Andrew Nicholls 34.02. The junior division was then given a six lap scratch race where the bunch stayed together and swapped turns of pace. Josh led out at the bell but was chased down by Will Lumby in the dash up the finish straight. Hamish Bissett followed through behind these two but could not lift the pace quickly enough at 200m to go to stay with them, however his good ride saw him claim third.

In the senior eight lap scratch race the field was all bunched up at the bell. Lachie Matthews was first to attack but Andrew Nicholls quickly moved around and defied the best efforts from the other riders to score a fine win ahead of Ronald Purtle and Thomas McFarlane. The juniors started a nine lap points score with three sprints. Will Lumby managed to dominate this with some smart riding and 15 points saw him with the win. Matt Minogue made a big effort in the first sprint but just lowered his colours there to Will. He was back trying hard again at the second sprint and this was enough to help him claim second overall with seven points. Again third place was taken on a count back with Josh ahead of Hamish. Last event for the season was a 10 lap motor paced

Tight race: Andrew Nicholls won the senior eight lap scratch race from Ronald Purtle on the outside and Thomas McFarlane (not in picture). scratch race. Once again Ronald Purtle was too quick for the field at the pointy end of the race. Thomas McFarlane took out second and Lachie Matthews claimed third. The club wishes well for Thomas McFarlane at the Na-

tional Titles for the mid-week of March. Next Saturday the club has programmed a training ride from Leongatha to Warragul and return. The road season will start on March 17 with a criterium race at Bena.

PAGE 66 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Paralympics in sight for Alex By Simone Short ALEX Welsh is destined for the big stage, although the modest Korumburra man will tell you he’s just taking it one step at a time. While most people struggle to get to the gym every morning, Alex is already out on the road handcycling a couple of hundred kilometres a week on his own. Motivated and determined are perhaps the best two words to describe the 20-yearold; he competed in the National Handcycling Series in March last year despite having only just taken up the sport. “I did the season just to get to know about it,” he said. “It was good; I loved it straight away. It’s just one of those things I had to learn about before I kicked into serious training.” Unlike a bicycle, a handcycle is built using three wheels and is powered by the arms, rather than legs. Having competed in track racing in the past, Alex said he was interested in trying out handcycling after a motorbike accident left him a paraplegic three years ago. “Racing motorbikes, I did cycling as training, and after my accident through rehab there was a guy who worked there that used to ride a handcycle to work every day; I thought it was pretty cool so I wanted to get one,” he said. “It’s just a good sport to get into and the bikes are pretty flexible in the way you can get in and out of them. I love the challenge

National Handcycling Series: Alex Welsh takes off in the road race event held in Echuca recently; he finished third in his class, and fifth in the time trial event.

of it, and the speed and distance that you can cover. It’s one of those sports where you can still just ride with your friends.” After starting work with the Australian Handcycle coach, Jenni Banks, in November last year, Alex kicked into full time training, which involves a combination of cycling, swimming and gym. With Jenni based in Perth however, Alex takes it upon himself to get out there and train every day. “I train six days a week, over a range of distances both on the road and on a station-

ary wind trainer,” he said. “I ride between 200 and 250km per week at the moment and I’m still building as well.” But Alex said having a coach helps him regulate his training and make sure he’s on the right track. “I’m pretty motivated but it helps me a lot with structure and just controls what I’m doing as well, so I don’t do too much. When you do too much it sets you back, especially if you get sick.” In handcycling, competitors are divided

THE South Coast Stars Soccer Club has partnered with the Australian Government’s Active Afterschool Communities (AASC) program to get more children healthy and active. This term, children from Inverloch, Kongwak and Tarwin Lower Primary Schools will get the chance to try soccer as a result of the new partnership. Local AASC Regional Co-ordinator Mark Lindsay is excited by this opportunity and anticipates that it will help encourage more children to get active. “We are extremely excited to work with South Coast Stars this term and beyond. The goal of the AASC program is to intro-

“I’m going as a development rider with the Paralympic team, basically just to get a taste of how to train and get me in a good routine from the start so we can start developing now towards Rio,” he said, but clarifies he still has a long way to go before the big event. “We’ll see how we go. I’ll just put in five hard years and hopefully put myself in the best position to be there. Mainly I just want to get overseas to Europe because compared to Australia, there’re at least 40 riders per class; here, mine’s the biggest class and there’s only eight of us.” After Canberra, Alex flies to Perth to compete in the next round of the national series, and is keen to head overseas as soon as possible, as well as compete in the World Championships. “I’ll finish out the Australian series strong and then hopefully go overseas with the team as a development rider; they normally head over after the Australian series, which finish in April, and do some of the European series races.” “Hopefully I’ll get to try and compete with those guys for a bit more of a challenge and learn a lot more off them.” In the meantime, Alex has set up a levy account through Disability Sport and Recreation to help fund his travel and equipment; unfortunately, handcycles are not cheap, with his new racing bike costing around $8000. Anyone wishing to contribute can make a BPAY payment by using biller code 75325 and reference number 1130119, or by calling DSR on 9473 0133, with all donations tax deductible.

Parrots host Tiger great

Soccer after school duce children to a variety of sports and physical activities in a fun, safe and inclusive environment. “We are anticipating the positive experiences children will gain from the program will encourage them to join the club and get them more active for life,” Lindsay said. South Coast Stars president Gene Parini said, “The AASC program is a great way to promote your organisation to children in your local area. “We are very pleased to deliver soccer activities through the AASC program as it gives our club the opportunity to encourage children to join if they really enjoy the activity.” The benefits of the AASC program are twofold, as it offers primary school-aged children a pathway to community

into four divisions; quadriplegic, high para (which is Alex’s class), low para and amputee, in which kneeling bikes are used. Alex launched into the 2012 nationals two weekends ago, competing in a time trial, relay and road race in Echuca. Also known was the ‘race of truth’, Alex finished fifth in the time trial, which was a 13km race against the clock with an average speed of 31.95km per hour. On the Saturday night, a relay event commonly held overseas was organised to give competitors the feel for it, and along with Melbourne based Stuart Tripp and New Zealander Tiffiney Perry, Alex’s team finished first. He then took on the 60km road race the next day, taking out third place. Alex said his times all improved “100 per cent” on his efforts last year. “I was much better, just from knowing what to do and being a lot fitter and stronger, and a lot more prepared,” he said, adding he enjoys both short and long distance. “I like both; the road race is a different challenge because you can draft in that, so cycling tactics come into play and all the same rules apply to upright bikes.” Although, at the moment, Alex describes handcycling as “mainly an older person’s sport”, he said more recently there have been younger people getting into it. It is a fairly new sport compared to track racing and athletics; it was only introduced to the Paralympics in Athens in 2004. In fact it is the Paralympics in Rio in 2016 that Alex has his sights set on; he heads to the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra this Friday for a week, to train with other handcyclists.

LEONGATHA Football and Netball Club is kicking their season off with a bang this year with a Sportsmen’s Night.

School soccer: Children from Inverloch, Kongwak and Tarwin Lower Primary Schools will get the chance to try soccer this term thanks to the South Coast Stars Soccer Club and the Active After-school Communities program. sport and helps local sporting clubs to attract new junior members and community coaches. The AASC program is an Australian Government initiative delivered by the Australian Sports Commission in up to 3270 schools and outside school hours care services

across Australia. Each term, up to 190,000 children participate in up to 70 different sports and 20 structured physical activities after school. For more information about the AASC program visit ausport.gov.au/aasc

The Parrots are hosting some big names in football including Richmond Tigers great Matthew Richardson. Fellow Tigers Dale Weightman and Jake King will also be making an appearance while Collingwood Magpie Damian Monkhurst and Robbie Kearns from the NRL are also on the bill. There are plenty of door prizes to be won, including dinner for four with underworld figure Mick Gatto going up for auction. It’s this Sunday night from 6.30pm, so make sure you get down, see some great sportsmen and support your local club.

Dinner prize: going up for auction is a dinner for four with underworld figure Mick Gatto (pictured) at the Leongatha Football and Netball Club Sportsmen’s Night. Photo courtesy of The Herald Sun.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012 - PAGE 67

Shaping up for great cup THE Betfair Stony Creek Cup is set to run this Sunday, March 11. There will be eight races on the day, with a small increase in prize money of $5000 across the program this year.

Stony Creek Racing Club’s CEO, Ralph Gallagher is expecting “a marvellous day of racing” and fun. A special feature of the 2012 Stony Creek Cup will be fashions on the field, organised and sponsored by Judy Stone of Influence on Dusk Clothing, and David Panther of Panthers Mensland. This year, organisers are hoping to beat last year’s total of 82 entrants, not only in numbers, but also in fashion. There is $3000 worth of prizes to be won, over the three categories of ladies, men and couples. Sarah Wolf, the club’s business manager, is busy organising the hospitality village of marquees and umbrellas, which add colour and atmosphere to the day. There are still some small spaces left for umbrellas and marquees, which can be booked by contacting Sarah at the club. Children are not forgotten on cup day, with novelties such as a jumping castle and the Farm Play animal nursery being present on the day to entertain the little ones. There is also the club’s own play-

ground, which is a safe and fun play area. The track is currently in spectacular condition, with recent rain doing more good than harm. The timely application of fertiliser to the track before the rain by grounds curator, Greg Bancroft has ensured that the turf will be lush and green by the time race day rolls around. Sponsorship for all cup day races has been finalised, with Betfair returning to sponsor the cup again this year. Eldorado travel, TAC and Nesci transport have also returned with sponsorship. Newcomers to cup day, Book Owl and The Welshpool Hotel are each sponsoring a race for the first time this year and “are graciously welcomed” by Mr Gallagher. Although the fields for cup day will not be finalised until Thursday, Mr Gallagher expects local trainers and horses to be well represented across the race fields. Stony Creek racing club is also pleased that the support of minister for racing, Denis Napthine and Racing Victoria has resulted in funds for a new perimeter fence, on which work will commence shortly. Mr Gallagher is also encouraged by the overall community support for the club, which helps to makes days Ready for a winning day: Grounds curator, Greg Bancroft, business manager Sarah Wolf and racing club CEO Ralph Gallagher like the Stony Creek Cup get ready for cup day. possible.

PAGE 68 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, March 6, 2012

DESP DESPITE D DE ESP SPIT PIT TE only oon nly ly taking tak akin ng up up the thee sport spo port rt a year yyea earr ago, aaggo,, Korumburra’s Korrum umbu burrrra’’s Alex A Al lex ex W Welsh ellsh sh iiss qu q quickly uic ick ckly kly ma kl m making ak kiing g his his mark m mar ark ar k on the th hee Australian Austr t alliiaan handtr han ha and n dcycling cy ycl clin ing circuit. cciirc irc rcui uiit. After Af A fte t r co ccompeting mpet mp e in et ng st strongly tro rong ngly l iin n th the he Echu Echuca uca lleg egg of th the he Na National atiion naall H Handcyan ndc dcy cling Series two weekends ago, he’s heading to the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra this week to begin training for the Paralympics in Rio in 2016. Read more about Alex’s promising progress on page 66.

Kaila’s on track for London KAILA McKnight is highly likely to be named this week in the Australian squad for the London Olympics following her win in the 1500 metres at the Qantas Melbourne Track Classic and Olympic Trials on Saturday night. The selection would be a dream come true for 25-year-old Kaila who has been training for years to gain Olympic selection. Despite limited training due to blisters, Kaila won the race over another highly fancied runner, Zoe Buckman. Training partners McKnight and Zoe Buckman, both Victorians thrilled the 4000 strong crowd with a close finImminent selection: Kaila McKnight is expected to be named this week on the Australian ish. While Buckman had looked good for the win down the home athletics team for the London Olympics.

straight, McKnight managed to beat her to the line to take the race in 4:10.52, followed by Buckman in 4:10.62. Both runners are ext d tto bbe named d iin th pected the tteam for London. According to Kaila’s parents Don and Cathy McKnight, they weren’t expecting Kaila to win due to her limited training, but were delighted when they saw her come home. Despite being almost five seconds outside her personal best, her effort is expected to come under notice by the selectors. The time wasn’t an “A” qualifying time but Kaila already has one “A” qualifying time, gained at the World Championships in Daegu, Korea last year when she clocked her personal best of 4:05.65. Athletes are usually required to have two “A” qualifying times,

however Kaila is highly tipped to be named along with 30 other athletes including hurdler Sally Pearson. D McKnight M K i ht told t ldd The Th Star S Don that Kaila had only started back training in the past few weeks after getting blisters during a race run in scorching heat. “Kaila was doing a lot of cross training, swimming and bike work, but wasn’t running a lot until recently,” Don said. For those athletes still aiming for Olympics they have until June 11 to post the qualifying times needed to join the team. Kaila is currently concentrating her full resources on training for the London Games in July and was training on Monday with the VIS in Melbourne prior to undergoing altitude training at Falls Creek for three weeks.