The Great Southern Star - November 24, 2009 by The Great Southern Star

Published at Leongatha for South Gippsland

ESTABLISHED 1890

The Great Southern

Star

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2009

72 PAGES

PUBLISHED TUESDAY --

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New windfarm Page 3. Page 5.

Coastal knock-back b k

Desal evictions Landlords eject tenants, ready for worker influx

Jump for joy

MEENIYAN sisters Hannah and Rafaela Ball were giving the jumping castle a good workout during last weekend’s Carnivale. The Meeniyan fun-fest was a great success, with people from far and wide ﬂocking to the town. See more pictures and details on page two.

By Matt Dunn WONTHAGGI landlords are evicting low income tenants in anticipation of the arrival of cashed-up desalination workers. The practice has further exacerbated the housing crisis in the town, leaving many of South Gippsland’s most vulnerable people without a place to live. Bass Coast Council CEO Alan Bawden said he knew of the problem and would publically shame anyone he thought was profiteering from the practice. “I’ve heard of it happening through discussions I’ve had through some of the real estate agents. It may be that landlords want to rent the properties to desalination workers, and you can only assume from that they’re expecting to get a higher rent,” he said. “Any landlord that may be speculating on getting a higher rent from a desalination worker than existing tenants will be sadly disappointed. I certainly hope that’s the case. “We can’t prevent those decisions being made by individual landlords. I’ve made it clear during meetings with agents, if there’s evidence of profiteering I’d have no problem with naming and shaming them publically.” Mr Bawden said he had no evidence of real estate agents being involved in the practice, but “there may be individual landlords just holding back to see what happens”. Many of those evictees turn up at the Wonthaggi office of Member for Bass Ken Smith, asking for help. Mr Smith has been at the coalface of the problem, and last week convened a forum that included community groups, government agencies, politicians and those desperate for affordable housing in the town. “I’ve had a number of people through saying they’ve been given 120 days notice to vacate the homes they’ve been renting,” he said. “Some people have been renting these properties for a number of years. The landlords

don’t have to give any reason as to why. They just have to give them 120 days to get out. “Basically, we believe, they’re going to let them out to the desal people. I can’t get that conﬁrmed. None of the agents will talk to us. I’ve got some mates that are agents, but none of the agents will say that to us. But that’s what we believe is a cause of the problem now, with some of the low cost housing we used to have in Wonthaggi.” One real estate industry insider asked about the evictions said he was “not going to be the bunny that presses the alarm button. “I don’t want to be a dramatist or anything, but this is pretty serious stuff. I don’t want my name in print anywhere. It’s too delicate. Sorry.” It is no secret that the desalination workers will be on high incomes, with average wages tipped to be about $130,000 a year. “They’re in a position where they’re being paid living away from home allowances, which adds up to several hundred dollars per week,” Mr Smith said. “They can come down here where we have people struggling to pay a couple of hundred dollars a week. We’ve got people coming down who are quite happy to pay $500 a week for a house that was previously let for $120, $150, $200 a week. There would be landlords pleased to be getting that extra money. “This is something that we’ve been concerned about for some time.” Convenor of the South Gippsland Focus on Care and Support organisation (FOCAS) Nancy Pattinson, said the housing crisis for low income earners was a “huge problem here” that was only set to get worse. “There’s lots of empty houses in Wonthaggi, but you can’t get them. They’re being saved up. Anyone on a single pension can’t get them,” she said. She knows rents will continue to rise. “Can you imagine living like that? It’s just continual. It just goes up every time. It’s going to go up so much. What I think it’s about is getting the tenants out, so they can get the house back,” she said.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

THE Meeniyan Carnivale was a big success over the weekend. Lyrebird Arts Council president and events co-ordinator Ian Bevington said they were fortunate the sun shone on Saturday, and they had a beautiful event. “There were some wonderful music experiences and the kids had a ball,” he said. Young ones enjoyed a bucking bull, jumping castle and fair-type food. The carnivale was an event to celebrate the arts council’s 10th birthday. An estimated 3000 people were in town on Saturday about 3pm, enjoying everything Meeniyan had to offer. A couple of hundred people camped at the football ground on Saturday night. On Saturday morning South Gippsland Highway trafﬁc going through Meeniyan was diverted. It allowed stalls and a stage to be set-

up, which was used to perform music in the street throughout the day. An hour after the stage was packed up it started pouring with rain. Musically the highlight had to be Tim Rogers and his star-studded band performing tracks from the Rolling Stones’ Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! album. They had the 300 people in the hall up and dancing all night long. On Saturday night The Audreys and newcomer Cilla Jane performed to another sold-out hall. Many of the crowd took their celebrations to the pub after the gig ﬁnished. All waste from the weekend was recycled. “It’s great to minimise the carbon footprint for an event like this,” Mr Bevington said. “It means a lot to us.” Community groups were extremely generous with their time.

Fairy ﬂoss: Kate and Alice Ball tuck into some carnivale sweetness. Wet fun: Cameron and Michael Olden (Meeniyan) were enjoying a snow cone after being thrown off the bucking bull into water.

Holding on: Shannon Noonan (Meeniyan) does his best to stay on the bull.

On display: Michael Mason (Leongatha) with his 1968 Ford Mustang at the Meeniyan Carnivale.

Performing soon: Van Walker Esquire and Liz Stringer arrive in Meeniyan for their musical turn.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 3

Wind blows again By Jane Ross A NEW wind farm is planned for St Clair on the outskirts of Wonthaggi. Brief details of the 50 megawatt wind farm have just appeared on the website of Synergy Energy Pty Ltd. Noone seems to have heard anything about it. Bass MLA Ken Smith, South Gippsland Conservation Society president Dave Sutton and Wonthaggi resident Beth Banks responded with a battle weary: “Oh no!” All veterans of the long-running but futile ﬁght to prevent the six turbine wind farm on the Wonthaggi coast, Mr Smith, Mr Sutton and Ms Banks were unaware of the St Clair plan. So were Bass Coast Shire CEO

Allan Bawden, Nationals Leader Peter Ryan and McMillan MHR Russell Broadbent. The wind farm will have somewhere between 25 and 40 turbines and will be sited 5kms east of the Wonthaggi Wind Farm. Mr Ryan said because of the proposed wattage, council would have no role to play in planning decisions. “It will be dealt with by (the State) government.” And any planning panel considering the wind farm would have to take into account the State’s support for wind energy. “We’d certainly oppose it,” said Mr Sutton. “You’d probably see it from the coast - it is further industrialisation of our coast. “It’s killing the golden goose.” An electronics engineer, he said

there was no point to wind farms because they have to be backed up by a coal powered source. Mr Smith agreed. “Wind farms don’t generate enough power. They’re a blight on the landscape. Solar is better.” He said the Wonthaggi Wind Farm was “forced through and wouldn’t generate enough power for 10 houses”. And a 50 megawatt wind farm would only produce one third of that if it was working full time and ﬂat out. The St Clair Wind Farm was “bad news”. Christian Spitzner who is in charge of the project for Synergy Wind Pty Ltd, told The Star the St Clair Wind Farm was in the “very early stages”. He was unable to say how many turbines were proposed because it

would depend on whether they were 1.5 or three megawatt. “Those decisions can’t be made until all the necessary assessments are done on wind speed, ﬂora and fauna.” Mr Spitzner said the company would “consult with council” and engage companies to do the assessments. There will be an open day for the public to ﬁnd out more, but Mr Spitzner could not say when that would be. Synergy Energy would be willing to provide power from the St Clair Wind Farm to the Wonthaggi desalination plant, but Mr Spitzner said that facility was not the reason for the wind farm. Synergy Energy has two other wind farm projects in Gippsland, one at Devon North, the other at Carrajung. Allan Bawden told The Star he hadn’t heard about the St Clair propos-

al, but it did not surprise him. “I had an idea there was a (wind) monitoring tower out there. “And, when the government produced a wind atlas that mapped areas in Victoria, it identiﬁed areas on the coast near Wonthaggi as suitable.” Russell Broadbent said he’d heard nothing about the St Clair project and he remains opposed to wind farms. “I am still concerned about the amenity of them. “If they get away with this one, then there will be the next and the next. “I wouldn’t mind if they had more than 19 per cent efﬁciency, but I don’t see them as a viable alternative at this stage.” Mr Broadbent said the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, would “like to see them all over Australia”.

Best foot forward By Jane Ross MICHAEL Kennedy remembers his bandaged arm and the wires all over his chest.

Stepping out: Tam Kennedy trains for her long fundraising walk, spurred on by her brother Michael.

Meals roster (Leongatha) Mary MacKillop College, Leongatha Primary School and South Coast Christian College will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning November 30, 2009.

He also recalls the “clown doctors” and the “really cool” male nurse called Ash. That was a long time ago in his young life, when he was in the Royal Children’s Hospital with an illness that caused inﬂammation of his blood vessels and had the potential to damage his heart. Michael had Kawasaki Disease, a condition affecting children under ﬁve. He’s seven now, with energy to burn and an active life that includes footy, basketball and little athletics. Michael has an older sister called Tam, who has

her own personal training business. She has clients in Melbourne and South Gippsland and, because she spends six days a week motivating others, constantly challenges herself too. She’s very ﬁt. Grateful for the care her young brother received at the Royal Children’s, Tam decided to do some fundraising for the facility’s cardiac unit, where Michael was treated. So, she’s going to walk, and walk and walk. She has set herself the goal of walking the 100kms from Leongatha to Foster and back in 20 hours. “Even if I have to run the last 50kms, I’ll do it in that time,” she declared. “I’m very determined.” Michael will go along to be part of Tam’s support crew.

That walk will take place on Saturday December 5. Tam is planning a second marathon early next year, when she will walk the 100kms from Apollo Bay to Glenample and return, also in 20 hours or under. She said all the money she raises on both walks will be donated to the Royal Children’s. Tam and Michael’s mother is Fiona Kennedy, the Inverloch artist. She’ll be part of her daughter’s support crew too. “It’s her way of saying thank you to the hospital for looking after Michael so well,” said Fiona. “I’m very proud of her.” Donations can be made via www.everydayhero.com.au/ tamara_kennedy or ring Donna Aranyi at the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation on 9345 4510.

Saying thanks: Tam Kennedy will walk from Leongatha to Foster and back in under 20 hours to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital to say “thank you” for the care her brother Michael received there.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Boys with toys: Lorraine Knox joined Seth, Zac, Will, Jesse and Josh when building a factory, suspiciously similar looking to Murray Goulburn in Leongatha.

Lorraine Knox is leaving Allora Kindergarten in Leongatha after 21 years. She taught her 1000th child this year. Mrs Knox talked to reporter Bert van Bedaf about her vocation over many years. There will be a farewell afternoon on December 3. Her ofﬁcial leaving date is December 18.

Teaching farewell LORRAINE Knox’s long association with Leongatha began in 1989, after a 13-year break, bringing up four children, and having previously taught in Warragul. Mrs Knox married Paul and they had their first child in 1976. Three more children arrived; two live in Melbourne now, one in Korumburra and another in Loch, where the Knox couple live. Mr Knox first ran a dairy farm, which now is a beef farm. “It was a lovely way, bringing up the children, but it was also lovely to come back to class,” said Mrs Knox, who is a qualified teacher up to Grade 2. “It really is more than a vocation. It is a sort of calling for me. Children are so unconditional in their affections and love. Kids are always inspiring you. They tackle things with such enthusiasm and without fear.”

“I realised only recently that I taught my 1000th child this year,” - Lorraine Knox. Allora is an aboriginal word for swamp, but the kindergarten is very much a modern set-up that has moved quickly with the changing times. “I have seen many changes in 21 years. But you’ve got to go with the changes. Children’s innocence, enthusiasm, tears and laughter, openness, and love for life have stayed the same, but times have changed and you need to embrace them,” Mrs Knox said. “When I ﬁrst began teaching 36 years ago, children had

Teaching years: After 21 years, Lorraine Knox taught her 1000th child at Allora Kindergarten this year. little contact with other children. There were no videos or taping. There were limited amounts of television and advertising. “Children had rarely held a pair of scissors or a pencil. They were allowed to climb trees, play alone in the park, kick the footy in the street and had only been minded by grandma. “Today children come to kinder with all the skills we once had to teach them and they are nearly reading by the time

they leave. They are different now and there have been many changes. I realised only recently that I taught my 1000th child this year.” Mrs Knox said parents were under much more pressure as well. “There is so much information and so much expectation to be the perfect parent. But as long as you give your children unconditional love and ﬁrm fair boundaries, and make your deci-

sions for all the right reasons at the time, your children will always love, trust and respect you for that.” Mrs Knox is leaving while still “loving the job”. But she decided it was time to spend more time with her husband, mother, see more of her children, enjoy other aspects of life as well and generally seize the day. Carpe diem is an appropriate motto for her. Nine years ago Mr Knox had a kidney transplant after years of dialysis treatment in hospital as well as at home. “It gives you a different perspective on life,” Mrs Knox said. “You realise life is great and precious. We have some catching up to do and we’re now looking for some rewards.” Both are 56 and love caravanning. “We go caravanning quite a bit and we’ll be organising a long trip for next year,” Mrs Knox said. “I’m also looking forward to doing those small things that I didn’t have enough time for when working, like having a coffee with friends and visiting my mum more often.” Mrs Knox was sad to be leaving behind fantastic staff, colleagues, children and friends after so many years. “To all these people, staff, families, committees, I’d like to say a huge thank-you,” Mrs Knox said. “My years at Leongatha have been very happy because of all of them. But mostly, I’d like to thank the children I have taught.” They were my greatest pleasures, challenges and rewards. It was a privilege they allowed me to share a small part of their lives and that part will continue to go with me forever.”

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 5

VCAT yields to climate By Bert van Bedaf SEA level rises because of climate change will become a major factor in planning decisions on Victoria’s coast and nationally in the future.

A landmark decision by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal to refuse a subdivision and dwelling construction in Waratah Bay on climate change grounds last week has clearly indicated future development along the coast may be severely limited. The decision will “have signiﬁcant implications for development in vulnerable coastal townships across Victoria and even on a national basis”, according to South Gippsland Shire Council. The statement was contained in a release by council, which originally approved the subdivision on the corner of Brown and Gale Streets, opposite

the beach. Council sustainability director Andrew McEwen said the decision was “a landmark one for the region’s planners and will have many consequences”. West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority had advised the tribunal that “the potential impact of climate change should be considered” regarding the subdivision in Waratah Bay. “We’re certainly concerned. We’re engaged in conversations with the Government in terms of climate change and sea level rise and its impact, but clearly the studies need to be done on a comprehensive basis, across the whole Victorian coastline,” Mr McEwen said. “Rural councils, which are limited in resources, are not in a position to be able to ﬁnance these studies.” Council approved the subdivision to create two blocks, one with an existing house on it, the other to build a

restaurant, on November 5, 2008. Objectors took the decision to VCAT and by June this year, the tribunal has ordered the developer Jimmy Harry to provide a coastal hazard vulnerability assessment to test the impact of climate change and sea-level rises on the property by 2100, “in particular the effect of storm surges on the proposed subdivision and future construction of a dwelling”. Mr Harry provided the assessment last month and last Thursday, November 19, the tribunal released its decision, refusing the subdivision on sealevel grounds. One of the objectors, Debora Myers, named as the applicant on the VCAT paper said she was “very pleased with the decision”, but declined to comment further. A message was left with Mr Harry to contact The Star for comment. The coastal hazard vulnerability

report concluded that “without mitigation measures, the site could suffer inundation by seawater under a sea level rise scenario of 0.8m by 2100. “In light of the submission, tribunal members were not satisfied that the report provided adequate justification to support the proposal”. Mr McEwen said the decision reflected the ‘precautionary approach’ set out in the Victorian Coastal Strategy (2009) and highlighted potential future impact of climate change for the South Gippsland community. “The decision indicates that in the absence of a strategy or intended mitigation works to address the impacts of sea level rise for Waratah Bay, the tribunal could not support the proposal. “Council acknowledges the reason behind the decision of VCAT and the potential implications of sea level rise and storm surge for the vulnerable coastal communities of South Gippsland.

Slow down, danger ahead

The recent billy cart derby in Inverloch provided plenty of thrills and spills. Ned Bradley just managed to hang on around a sharp bend, no doubt losing a bit of skin on his hand along the way. The lady on the right of the picture seems more worried than the billy cart daredevil himself.

“However South Gippsland is only part of the overall picture of how we can address climate change impact. This is a matter for which the State and Federal Government must provide a leadership role and adequate resources, including funding, to develop and implement policy at the local level. “We have been working closely with the State Government to move towards an acceptable policy position via the Future Coasts Project and the VCAT decision conﬁrms the importance of this collaborative process. “Council will continue to assess and respond to these issues in the most appropriate manner, in conjunction with other coastal municipalities and the State Government.” Earlier last year, VCAT overturned another council approval, refusing the development of six lots on Grip Rd, Toora, on climate change grounds as well as farming zone implications.

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Smith’s Bass Coast blast By Matt Dunn MEMBER for Bass, Ken Smith described Bass Coast Council’s no-show at a housing crisis forum in Wonthaggi last week as “disgraceful”.

The Bass Electorate Housing Forum, organised by Mr Smith, was attended by community groups, government agencies, politicians and those desperate for affordable housing in the town. There was a palpable sense of anger and disbelief among those who attended, especially as many of the attendees had travelled from far away to be there. “John Duscher (Bass Coast Council mayor) put his head in and made an apology that he could not attend, but he was the only councillor or council

ofﬁcer who was prepared to even put in an apology,” Mr Smith said. “We had people come all the way down from Cardinia, yet we couldn’t even get people to come down the hill. I just wished they could have sat there and listened to the problems of the people. Why weren’t some of those socalled caring councillors there? “Where was Alan Bawden, the chief executive? He could at least have sent someone down or come down himself. I’ve got to wonder what this council’s on about. They reckon they’re the carers of the people, but the truth of the matter is the forum we had set up today has been happening for about a month and a half – they all had invitations to attend but didn’t bother.” Mr Smith said there was “obviously something wrong with these people with their lack of caring for the people in their

community”. Council’s social planner, Jeanette Draper was supposed to speak at the event, cancelled in the days before. Council CEO Alan Bawden said the organisation has been studying the problem and was due to release a report in the coming weeks. He rejected assertions by Mr Smith that council didn’t care. “If I’d been available I would have been going. I’m certainly hopeful Ken will give us some feedback on what was discussed. Many of the agency we’ve had discussions with in recent months were there,” he said. Mr Smith said the forum was organised because of a worsening crisis in affordable housing in the region, with revelations that some low income tenants had been evicted to make way for cashed-up desalination plant workers.

“We, from time to time, get people coming in to my ofﬁce in Wonthaggi, looking for housing. GippsCare and people from the Salvation Army came to see me and we had a meeting. They talked to us about the problems they had placing people in accommodation,” he said. Mr Smith said the crisis had become so bad that the only place emergency accommodation could be found for the potential tenants was the Miners Rest Motor Inn in Wonthaggi. “That’s the only place that will have them. Agents won’t have anything to do with people who need help with the Salvos or GippsCare, because they don’t want problem tenants,” he said. “So they never have anything available.”

Ken Smith

Country fire levy opinions sought

SOUTH Gippslanders have been urged to comment on how the Country Fire Authority is funded.

The Bushﬁres Royal Commission last week released a discussion paper on the levy, which is charged on property insurance to raise funds to pay for the CFA’s operating costs. Only people who pay property insurance now the pay the levy, but un-

insured property owners are entitled to the CFA’s services. Gippsland South MLA Peter Ryan, also the Shadow Minister for Bushﬁre Response, said property owners should seize the opportunity to push for a fairer way of funding the CFA. “The commission notes the current system allows those who are not insured or who are under-insured to access ﬁre services such as the Country Fire Authority without contributing

funding,” he said. Country Victorians currently pay a much higher levy than metropolitan Melbourne residents. “A business operator pays an 84 per cent FSL, which means that for every $100 of premium, they are charged an additional $123 for the FSL, GST and stamp duty – which more than doubles the cost of insurance,” Mr Ryan said. “Reform options outlined by the

commission include widening the fire services levy and compulsory property insurance. “The discussion paper also identifies widespread instances where Victorians are not adequately insured or are under-insured, which was found to be a major problem among properties lost in the 2009 bushfires. The State Opposition will release its preferred levy raiser after considering the recommendation of the

bushﬁre commission and the Henry Review of taxation. Mr Ryan pledged the Coalition would change the way the levy is funded if it wins government at the state election on November 27 next year. “Our intention is to produce something that is fair and equitable. The scheme will not be abolished but will instead spread the load,” he said.

Morwell expo GIPPSLAND Antique Bottles and Collectables Club and the Morwell Lapidary Club will join forces to host their annual 2009 Gemstones, Jewellery, Antiques and Collectables Expo. The event takes place on Saturday and Sunday, November 28 and 29 in Kernot Hall, Princes Drive, Morwell. This popular event attracts collectors from around Australia to buy and sell their wares and patrons can see demonstrations of stones being polished and gemstones being faceted to ﬁt jewellery. The expo will feature over 160 tables, with sales and displays of thousands of items to take the fancy of the large and small collectors. This is an ideal opportunity to pick up that Christmas present with a difference. You can have jewellery made for that special person just in time for Christmas. After a very successful 2008 expo, the traders have once again booked out the 160 trading tables for the popular 2009 expo. Thanks to generous support from sponsors, it promises to be another bum-

per all around event. The expo is advertised Australia-wide and attracts people both young and old with all different collecting habits to pick up that something special to add to their collection. Well known retired auctioneer and collector, Ross Roycroft will be on hand conducting free antique appraisals over both days of the expo. This is an ideal opportunity to ﬁnd out about the old things that you may have had collecting dust in the cupboard or shed for countless years. There is no limit to the number of items that you can present for your free antique appraisal. Kernot Hall has off-road parking in the vast car parks around the complex and can easily accommodate dozens of coaches. Disabled facilities are available at Kernot Hall and wheelchair access is made easy by wide passageways. Admission to the expo will be $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, with children under 16 accompanied by an adult free. Open hours 9.30am to 5pm Saturday, and 9.30am to 4.30pm Sunday. For enquiries and further information, phone Wally Weston on 5127 6548 or Trevor Pickering on 5134 1250 (a/h).

Truckin’ to Buffalo CHRISTMAS is a busy time of the year but the young people of South Gippsland are being urged to attend this event: the Frisky Friesians and Jersey Jocks Black Tie Break Up. The South Gippsland Young Farmers will hold the ball at the Buffalo Hall on Saturday, December 19. Country star Truckin’ with Tim will perform at the celebration, from 7pm to midnight. Tickets are $30 prepaid or $40 at the door, including ﬁnger food, entertainment and a stubbie holder.

Members and nonmembers are welcome, but the age limit is being kept to 15-30 to fit in the “young” theme. For tickets or details, phone 0407 476 368 or email southgippslandyoungfarmers@hotmail. com The Young Farmers club was formed 18 months ago and is now one of five clubs around Victoria, the others being Yarram, Nathalia, Donald and St Arnaud. The South Gippsland club offers social events, field day visits, the chance to learn new skills, camping, parties, bonfire night and monthly meetings at

Coal Creek Heritage Village, Korumburra. Members also undertake community work and have helped ﬁx fences destroyed by bushﬁres this year. Club president Zen Rantall enjoys the social aspect of the club, meeting other young people with an interest in agriculture. “We want to keep young people on the land and let people know they don’t have to move to the city to have fun. You can do it in the country,” she said. Despite what the title suggests, not all members are farmers and that makes the club interesting.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 7

Hospital fails test By Jane Ross THE dilapidated state of the Leongatha Memorial Hospital has resulted in an accreditation standards failure.

Gippsland Southern Health Service CEO Gary Templeton, said as far as he was aware, it was the ﬁrst time an aspect of accreditation had failed since 1978. “It’s certainly the ﬁrst time we’ve failed any standard in accreditation since I’ve been here.” Mr Templeton joined the health service in 1996. He said he feels disappointed and “uncomfortable”. Instead of its customary three-year accreditation, the health service will now receive “provisional credentialling” and will have to go through another survey in 12 months’ time. The matter cannot be alleviated without funding. Mr Templeton said three surveyors spent three days auditing every aspect

of Gippsland Southern Health Service on behalf of the Australian Council of Health Care Standards. They awarded the Home and Community Care aspects of the health service one of the highest ratings ever. But 10 points identiﬁed by the health service as needing a “high” rating on a risk register, drew the negative result. Mr Templeton said that was because GSHS had not outlined how it was going to deal with the risks. And the health service had not done that because of the anticipation of capital funding for redevelopment. The basis for that assumption was

that the new Koorooman House aged care facility opened a year ago, had always been stage one of a whole site rebuild. The funding for a new Leongatha hospital has not been forthcoming from the State and is the subject of a deputation to Health Minister Daniel Andrews on December 10, arranged by Nationals Leader Peter Ryan. Mr Templeton said he expected Mr Andrews will be briefed by his department of the accreditation standards failure, ahead of that December 10 meeting. The CEO said GSHS will now have to ﬁnd a way to address the standards failure, either by putting in place a capital plan, or addressing the 10 individual risk issues. These were identiﬁed and put on a risk register in 2002. Given that, Mr Templeton said, “It would have been reasonable to have expected a (State) capital plan by now. “Although we realise there are lots of competing facilities in the State.”

Rain turns season around MORE than two inches of rain has fallen in parts of South Gippsland since Friday, putting a smile on farmers’ faces. “We’ve put in a couple of crops and with this rain and more predicted for the weekend, it will really turn the season around,” said Neville Buckland, who is a Keeping dry: Alena and Jade Cous- weather recorder and farmer at ins from Meeniyan were still enjoying Fish Creek. themselves despite the rain at Carnivale. The downpour will also help a

late burst of grass growth before hay cutting. The rain has also placed the area’s water storages in what South Gippsland Water managing director Steve Evans describes as “very good shape”. Mr Buckland recorded 51mm in Fish Creek over the weekend, with 38mm of that falling in the 24 hours to Sunday morning. He said that is the highest single 24 hour recording since June 2003.

Celebrate ability SOUTH Gippsland shire council will celebrate International Day of People with a Disability with a lunch next month. The celebration in Leongatha is being planned for Thursday, December 3 to highlight the abilities and achievements of people with disabilities. “Council is working in partnership with Yooralla First Base, Department of Human Services and local businesses to ensure that this day is one of celebrating what we can do, rather than what we can’t do,” South Gippsland shire council’s rural access ofﬁcer Alisha McDonald said.

The lunch will be held in the Safeway Car Park outside council ofﬁces in Smith St, Leongatha, from 11.30am to 2.30pm. There will be live music, basketball hoops, dancing demonstrations and interactive art activities, promoting the abilities of people with disabilities. There’ll be free Devonshire teas that showcase the developing hospitality skills of the Yooralla First Base crew, followed by a free barbecue lunch for everyone For more information contact Alisha McDonald on 5662 9376 or alisham@ southgippsland.vic.gov.au

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

Link with a life lost By Jane Ross RETIRED Fish Creek school principal Peter Woods, has become a missing link in the quest to identify young Australian soldiers lying in a mass grave at Fromelles France.

His maternal uncle Michael Thomas (Tom) Coogan, was killed at Fromelles and Peter is hoping Tom’s remains might be identiﬁed among those uncovered in the middle of last year, after painstaking research and lobbying by Melbourne school teacher Lambis Englezos. Peter is to provide a DNA sample in the slim hope that he and his family might ﬁnally know where his uncle’s remains are buried. He is acutely aware that at the time, most families in Australia could not comprehend what had happened when they received a telegram to say that their son, brother, friend was “missing in action – presumed dead”. “They wanted the soldier’s body recovered and brought home. “They were not told the battle achieved nothing and the bodies were on the German side,” said Peter.

He isn’t sure how the DNA sample will be taken, but he is expecting a kit in the mail. Nor is he convinced that providing his DNA will result in a positive match, but believes it is worth a try. “As you can see the end of your own life, you think more about your family history.” Both Peter and his wife Thelma, have strong military connections. Peter’s father George Woods also fought in France during World War I. He was gassed and sent to England to recover. He ended up a TPI (totally and permanently incapacitated). Thelma’s father was a prisoner of the Japanese at Ambon and Hainan Island during World War II. “He had a very rough time.” She also lost an uncle in New Guinea. Tom Coogan died at Fromelles on Wednesday July 19 1916. The battle was the ﬁrst for Australian soldiers following the Gallipoli campaign. It was a disaster. By the time it was called off the following day, more than 5000 young Australian men had been killed, wounded or taken prisoner. Because it was high summer, the Germans buried the dead to avoid

disease, placing the Allied soldiers in mass graves. Most were recovered but one, containing the remains of more than 200 men, was unknown for 90 years. Peter said his Uncle Tom was the eldest of seven children; Peter’s mother Elizabeth, the youngest. “Mum always said Tom was the one who was good at everything including football, running and horse riding. “She also told me Tom and his next brother Nick, tossed a coin to decide which went to war and which stayed home to work on the farm. “Tom won that toss.” A special re-interment ceremony is planned at Fromelles in the middle of next year and Peter and Thelma are considering attending. They have already visited “the magniﬁcent” Australian War Cemetery at Villers Bretonneux in France. “I would love to visit Fromelles and the areas where my Dad served,” said Peter. “We hope our grandchildren (there are three) grow to understand what their ancestors have sacriﬁced and we hope they never have to live through another war.”

Family connection: Peter Woods with his grandchildren Adam Drury, Jasmine Woods and Beth Drury.

Killed at Fromelles: Tom Coogan was a young soldier when he was killed in France in July 1916. His nephew Peter Woods is providing DNA in the hope that Tom’s remains might be identiﬁed from the Pheasant Wood mass grave uncovered last year.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 9

Landcare’s Branches to merge funds worry THE future of Landcare staff in South Gippsland remains uncertain beyond June 30 next year. All positions are funded until then but the Federal Government is yet to commit into the new financial year. Network co-ordinator Belinda Brennan continues to search for grants and projects to maintain her team of dedicated staff. “There is a fairly good chance that everyone’s positions are to be continued,” she said. “Staff are dependant on project work coming through in the next six to seven months.” Positions tend to be short term and do not provide staff with long term security and projects with extended support. “It’s hard for staff to keep going but they are committed to Landcare. If they did not have that commitment, with the security of tenure they have, we would probably lose them,” Ms Brennan said. “It’s no different to other industries. We are fighting against hospitals and schools for money.” The Community Weeds Taskforce remains one of the network’s major programs and employs a dedicated pest plants and animals officer, Martin Chatfield. “We were able to get funding initially to get a burst on pest species but if we don’t get more funding in the following years, all our good work is lost,” Ms

Brennan said. “You can’t beat weeds in one year.” Mr Chatfield is the only full time employee on the network’s staff, which also includes Jill Vella, the new landholder and One Million Trees officer, and facilitator Tony Gardner. Between them, the four are responsible for servicing 21 Landcare groups in the region from Welshpool to Nyora and Mirboo North – 4000 square kilometres. Decisions about the positions are not expected to be made until later this financial year. Among the network’s major projects are the Revitalise, Renew and Regenerate Landcare in South Gippsland and the One Million Trees project. The network has applied for $50,000 worth of grants to be shared between these two projects and is also seeking tax deductability status to encourage more donations. The network is also seeking $21,000 to control three species of broom and Spanish heath. The Mardan-Mirboo North Landcare Group has applied for funding from the Woolworths Sustainable Farming Grant to buy a $22,000 compost turner to collect waste hay, silage and other organic waste to be recycled as fertiliser. Plans are also afoot to digitally map all remnant vegetation in the network’s region. The network will also work closely with indigenous people and businesses on specific projects.

Massive area: South Gippsland Landcare Network co-ordinator Belinda Brennan and project ofﬁcer Jill Vella inspect their area of responsibility.

Approval is still needed from the UDV’s central council before the merger can happen. At the UDV branch’s Annual General meeting a motion supporting the amalgamation passed unanimously. South Gippsland UDV branch president Keith Jeffrey said there will be more people to select ofﬁce

bearers from. “Our interests are very similar,” he said. “Fertiliser prices and water are both similar and it means we will have more strength in what we put forward.” A combined meeting will be held tonight (Tuesday) in Leongatha to discuss the amalgamation. Promontory/Leongatha VFF branch president Lindsay Marriott said the merger was a good idea. “We’re all farmers and I believe the more united the voice the more

effective we will be in getting our voice across in the many things we have to tackle,” he said. “If you go back on an historical basis since farmer organisations started, there’s been a steady progression towards less of them.” Mr Marriott said the two branches would complement each other. “It’s important to remember that beast production is an important part of the dairy farm and it’s something that is integral to their business,” he said.

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By Brad Lester

THE South Gippsland UDV and Leongatha/Promontory VFF branches are likely to amalgamate.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

THE last train has just left Leongatha South and is headed for Outtrim. Model train enthusiast, Jim Darwin, said his ﬁrst departure from Outtrim may be delayed due to track laying and rolling maintenance.

A LITTLE bit of Meeniyan’s history can be seen in the rotunda in Tanderra Park. A table, lovingly created by John van Wamel, from the huge gum tree that used to stand so majestically across from the pub, ensures that it is not

lost forever. Sue Gilford from Agnes donated her services and artistry as pyrographer to inscribe the table. John also used his skills to make a seat from the same tree, which is in the Meeniyan Art Gallery. Clients can now sit and relax and view the art work at their leisure on a remnant of Meeniyan’s heritage. ANGLICARE Victoria in Gippsland is looking for people from across the region who are willing and able to offer a caring and loving home to a child, or children, currently involved with our Disability, Permanent Care and Adoption Program. An information evening will be held at the Anglicare Victoria ofﬁce, 65 Church Street Morwell, on Wednesday December 2 at 6pm to help interested members of the public understand the roles and responsibilities involved in caring for a child with a disability. Interested people can contact Pauline or Jill at Anglicare Victoria’s Morwell ofﬁce on 5133 9998. THE combined churches and the South Gippsland Brass Band will again be hosting Carols in the Drome in Leongatha on Saturday December 19. There will be family fun from 6pm, with a jumping castle, face painting and other activities, with the carols program starting at 7.30 pm. Denis Walter is our special guest artist this year, who will be presenting some special Christmas songs of his own, and leading the community carol singing. Local schools and performers will also feature. We are looking for people for the adult choir. Rehearsals are at the Salvation

Army Hall on Sunday December 13 at 3.30 pm and Wednesday December 16 at 7.30 pm. We thank our sponsors, IGA, combined churches and the South Gippsland Shire. LEONGATHA Red Cross is holding a stall in the foyer of the Memorial Hall on Thursday, November 26. Come and find a bargain and help this worthy cause. THE Leongatha Netball Association is asking for any 16-year-old girls who are interested in doing their debutante in March 2010, to please register with Narelle Polato as soon as possible on 5668 6246. This will be the final notice and anyone not registered will miss out, but can be put on a waiting list for the following year, being 2011. All adverts have been put in both local papers last month, so this is the final call for registrations. THE Mushroom Craft Shop in Bair St, Leongatha, was 23-years-old last Friday, November 20. Owner Margaret Tattersall said it was quite a long time for a small shop, but happy to keep it going as long as possible. She was looking forward to 25-year celebrations in two years. Her Art/Craft Space gallery will be 15 years old next year. Margaret has regular exhibitions in the gallery and is always looking for new artists. For inquiries, call her on 5662 2144. SOUTH Gippsland shire councillor Bob Newton made news in the Weekly Times last week (Cool, calm and collecting, November 18) with his remarkable collection of just about every-

Charitably hairy: the mo team, from left, Mark Lamers, Joel Noorbergen, Alan McEachern, Will Geisler, Kelvin Smith and Bryan Billett. THE Kelvin Johns’ team is doing its bit for men’s health, by participating in Movember. While some of the mos were a bit stringy, others looked like they’d been there for years. The month-long celebration of the moustache, highlighting men’s health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression in men and raises much needed funds for those causes. thing, stored at his Outtrim farm. Cr Newton has collections on anything historical, ranging from Furphy water carts to comic books, tools and wire strainers and much more, packed in one giant shed, 10 small sheds and a disused rail carriage. The first collection he started was pocket knives. He now has 4000 items. The Mirboo North Community Support Co-op will hold its annual general meeting this week. This year’s meeting will be an opportunity for members to find out the latest de-

velopments of the Mirboo North & District Bendigo Community Bank. There will also be discussion on the future of the Co-op once the Bendigo Branch of the community bank is in operation. It is hoped there will be a big turnout at the shire foyer meeting area on Thursday night at 7.30pm. The board is aware this clashes with the screening of the “Getaway” program featuring Mirboo North, but arrangements are being made to view the program during supper at the conclusion of the meeting. ANOTHER dapper Movember supporter is Andrew Rosser, of Celia Rosser Gallery in Fish Creek. Andrew has grown a Zapata moustache, after Emiliano Zapata, the Mexican rebel leader who once said, “It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees.”

JUSTIN Caporale, eldest son of Tony and Sharon Caporale, graduated at Monash University Gippsland on October 3, with a Bachelor of Business and Commerce, majoring in Business Law. Justin has been working at Gippsreal Pty Ltd for the past six years and going to university part time.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 11

Let pools fail - report By Bert van Bedaf A CONSULTANT’S report recommends that South Gippsland Shire Council allow three of its ﬁve outdoor swimming pools to deteriorate until they “fail”, saving up to $9 million. But Mayor Jim Fawcett said he doubted any pools would be closed, rather they would be replaced with improved facilities, once the old pools had passed their use-by date. He did not rule out rate increases to pay for the outlays. “We would not be prepared to close pools, but replace them with other water facilities that may be more attractive. I think it is fair to say that the provision of pools in a 1950s format may not be what council will provide in 2010 – 2020,” Cr Fawcett said. He said council would be consulting with the community to gauge what they would want to see happen and what they were prepared to pay for the pools over the next 12 months. “When pools do end up for replacement,

what would they want to replace them with and at what cost,” Cr Fawcett said, having the $26 million outlay suggested in the report in mind. “By necessity it will result in rate increases or there may be reductions in capital works programs, such as roads. “In any event we would not be closing pools without talking to the community about it.” Consultant Simply Great Leisure has been brieﬁng council on its pools during the year. Already in a draft report tabled in January, the consultant recommended closure of some pools as an option. In the report tabled on November 11, the option (D) clearly states council can “operate the facilities as is, until the pool fails’ resulting in the closure of the facility and initiate transport options to enable ongoing access to pools. “The operational savings achieved would be used to upgrade or develop alternative facilities that better meet community needs.” Closure of facilities would enable “redirection of funds (of) $9 million”. Pools at risk are in Mirboo North, 49-years-old, and Poowong, 46-years-old,

which are leaking and given another four to ﬁve years of life. But Foster, Toora and Korumburra are not exempt from possible demise. An assumption in the report anticipates that “three pools may fail within a 10-year period”. Foster and Toora require regular maintenance. Minor plant upgrades have been recommended. Foster’s shelf life is between eight to 10 years, while Toora could last another 10 to 15 years. The shire’s ﬁve outdoor pools also include Korumburra, which is in a similar condition as Toora. Other options are the replacement of three pools shells and maintenance of all pool at $26 million over 10 years; repairs of pool shells and maintenance at $18.5 million over 10 years; redesign and improvements over 10 years at $24.5 million. In addition council manages Leongatha’s SG SPLASH, operated by the YMCA. The consultant report recommends a major extension of the pool and sport complex to the tune of around $3 million, including provision for a gym, crèche and hydro/hot water program pool, to attract up to 50,000 more users.

GippsTAFE a cut above YOUNG hairdressing students from across the Gippsland region put their growing skills to the test in a bid to take out the titles at the annual GippsTAFE Hairdressing Competition. The 2009 event proved to be so popular that the

event managers had trouble accommodating the huge crowd of spectators who came to support their favourite competitors on the day. According to GippsTAFE Hairdressing Trainer, Jacki Deering, this year’s competition has yielded some of the best work she has seen on show.

“The apprentices have worked very hard to develop their skills this year, and the results have been exceptional,” she said. “We have real talent here in Gippsland.” Two local students, Shannon Ducie and Rebecca LeBlanc, joined the ﬁerce competition. The two girls showed off the skills that they had

Ready for action: GippsTAFE students prepare for their careers.

Red alert INVERLOCH Primary School and kindergarten are among those that will have to close on days of red alert or “catastrophic” ﬁre warnings. The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development has declared particular schools, kinders and child care centres as being at risk and needing to shut on those days for the safety of the children. Mirboo North Kindergarten, primary and secondary schools are others in the South Gippsland area that will have to close too. Bass Valley occasional care is also on the list.

developed while undertaking hairdressing as part of their VET in Schools studies at GippsTAFE Leongatha. Shannon and Rebecca were given 30 minutes to complete a blow dry on their models. As the minutes ticked down, the crowd of supporters cheered the students on. At the end of the time, the students stepped aside for their models to be judged. Although the South Gippsland students did not win their heat, both agreed that the hairdressing competition was a great learning opportunity.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Open letter to the Mayor Well done Star IT is not too often that newspapers are celebrated. In fact, quite often, it is the exact opposite. But The Star’s win in the Victoria Country Press Association’s annual awards was a major pat on the back for South Gippsland’s number one newspaper. In awarding the journalism prize in the 3000-10,000 circulation category, RMIT Journalism lecturer Dr Mandy Oakham was effusive in her praise of the paper, saying we were “more than a head in front ” of our rivals. The last few years have seen some major changes to both the style and substance of The Star. Shorter and sharper stories, brighter and better photos and an easy-on-the-eye layout has been achieved without compromising our commitment to community news. No changes happen without some angst, but we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from readers on alterations to The Star’s look and content. To have that conﬁrmed by the VCPA is gratifying to all those involved in keeping The Star relevant as a 21st century newspaper. Well done to the journalists and production staff whose hard work and initiative secured the VCPA award. And, most importantly, thanks to the South Gippsland public who have supported us on this ongoing mission to make The Star an even better community newspaper.

Poor form REVELATIONS that landlords are attempting to remove tenants from South Gippsland homes to cash in on cashed-up desal workers is a major concern. There seems to be nothing illegal about such practices, but the morality of the situation is clear to all. There is a desperate need for housing among lower income people, with rental properties usually the only alternative to homelessness. How many people will now be forced away from family and friends to more “affordable” towns away from the desalination plant. The social fracturing this will cause will be paid for over years to come.

Letters guidelines ALL letters should be kept to 400 words or less. The Star reserves the right to edit all letters for length and style. Writer’s details, including full name, address and phone number (not for publication), must be included.

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

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

As we have been told by council and some of us have even sampled it, the new bus service that Minister Kosky “gave” us for $14.7 million was in lieu of the $70 million for the return of the train. Bass Coast and Wellington shires also had quite a dip at the cash. The press tells us that you as mayor, along with Mr Peter Ryan MP, will meet with Health Minister Mr Andrews to “discuss” the needs of Leongatha Hospital – we also realise that will be after you get re-elected as mayor on December 2. I trust that after all the hard work that council must have done over a number of years to obtain what council believes is a ﬁrst class transport system that again links we in South Gippsland to the outside world, you as mayor may be able to not only enjoy it ﬁrsthand, you may be even able to host your fellow deputation members to also sample the ride. Mayor-elect Fawcett, enjoy the ride. Paul Norton Leongatha South

Fire warning As we go into the 2009/10 fire season, many Victorians are feeling understandably anxious after the tragic events of last February. The general public, and the media that serve them, have a heightened awareness of the dangers of fire and the potential for it to affect their town and district. The phenomenon of fire does not warn us where and when it will strike or with what level of intensity, but neither does it choose how we, as a community, respond to its threat. Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria, which represents the state’s 60,000 CFA volunteers, urges all Victorians to make up their minds now to meet the fire season with preparation rather than panic. That preparation should involve removing possible fuel around the home and packing a travel kit for the family in case the need arises to leave, but it also involves the decision to approach the fire season with knowledge and action rather than fear. CFA volunteers are often portrayed as heroes and indeed some of them find themselves in the position of being just that, but

the real difference between a firefighter and an ordinary member of the public is training, knowledge and experience. And whether you are a potential volunteer or not, VFBV urges every Victorian to fight fire in their own way, by gathering the knowledge to protect themselves, their family and their home or business. By making the decision to go into the fire season with preparation, not panic, you will be helping Victoria to confront fire as a community. I urge every one of your readers to visit the CFA’s website (www.cfa.vic.gov.au) or VFBV’s site (www.vfbv.com.au), check the advice given in the pages of this newspaper, or talk to a local volunteer about how they can prepare. Andrew Ford Chief Executive Officer Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria

MP writes An open letter to Bass Coast Shire CEO and councillors, On Wednesday, November 18, I hosted the Bass Electorate

VOXPOP! VOX Are you worried rising sea levels may ﬂood beach towns?

They may eventually, but we don’t know what the time scale is. Martin Henry Mardan

No, I live on a hill. I suppose it depends where you live. Sue Cartwright Ryanston

No, not at all. I work in real estate in Korumburra and it will help our market. Dean Goad Korumburra

It seems like it’s going to happen. You have the north pole melting, so something’s got to give. Merv Bowler Leongatha

Housing Forum at the Wonthaggi Club. The idea for this forum emanated from a meeting held earlier this year between me, Simon and Deborah Smith from the Wonthaggi Salvation Army Corps, Celia Irwin, manager of GippsCare and housing support worker Chris Beale to discuss the growing shortage of emergency, supported and crisis accommodation in the Bass Coast region. They told me that their agencies were struggling to cope with the demand for supported housing in the region and unless it was addressed, homelessness would become a huge issue. I soon learned that this was not just a Bass Coast issue, but a problem throughout my electorate, and thought that a forum would give voice to agencies, organisations and individuals who were as concerned as I was. Those who spoke at the forum included representatives from Cardinia Shire Council, GippsCare, WAYYS, FOCUS, Quantum, the Housing for the Aged Action Group and Shadow Minister for Housing, Wendy Lovell. What was disappointing is that no representative from Bass Coast Council attended, and there were many in the 50-strong audience who, along with me, were not impressed with this obvious show of disinterest. Other than Cr Duscher, who gave a late apology, not one councillor, or CEO Allan Bawden, responded to my invitation. Council’s social planner Jeanette Draper was booked to talk but pulled out a week before because she preferred to wait until a report on council’s affordable housing study, which will look at the impact of the desalination plant on accommodation in the region in particular, became available. This too, was disappointing, as the forum explored a wide range of issues, all of which would have been of interest to the council. Irrespective of the decision not to speak, it was hard to understand why Ms Draper or any other council representative could not attend

as an audience member. While I appreciate that the forum and council’s $97,000 study cross over to some extent, surely any opportunity to gather information and meet with representatives from the industry and residents who are affected by the current housing problems would have been beneﬁcial to council. Bass Coast Shire’s attendance would also have been a sign of respect to those who cared enough about the issue – and in some instances travelled a long way – to attend the forum. That shire representatives could not walk 200 metres down the road was a disgrace. Ken Smith MP Member for Bass

“Cannon” replies

I PROVIDE the official statement to the recently published article, “Loose Cannon,” in The Leongatha Star on October 20 2009. It reads as follows; I reiterate this article and its underlying comments, criticisms and contents identified in the article by specific councillors are irrelevant, a gossip column to sell more papers and is intended to tarnish my standing against the C48 Planning Amendment as a C48 Community Watchdog and support to the affected 15,419 property owners in the Shire of South Gippsland. Our actions as the C48 Community Watchdogs will prove to expose the elements of corruptions, ill informed council decisions from the City of Casey aggrieved and jealous councillors (past and present) and management towards community members who are truly committed, dedicated and who will stand firm to represent the true principles of accountability, visibility and transparency for their constituents. It is time these councillors reviewed their past and current actions and decision makings and let themselves be judged by their own constituents.

Paul Richardson JP C48 Community Watchdog

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 13

POLICE BRIEFS

Port Welshpool drowning PORT Welshpool Coast Guard volunteers rushed to the aid of three men thrown into the sea after their boat capsized last Tuesday (November 17). One of the men, from Briagolong in North Gippsland, died. His ﬁshing companions, a Woodside man and his cousin from New South Wales, were rescued after activating an EPIRB emergency beacon.

CIU for questioning in relation to the theft of copper wire from the Long Jetty at Port Welshpool. The man was charged and remanded for a number of thefts. “His female partner was charged with handling stolen goods and assaulting police,” Foster Police’s Leading Senior Constable Karen McDonald said. “Two other males from the Port Welshpool and Toora area were interviewed by the CIU at Foster. The pair will appear at the Korumburra Magistrates Court in January.”

Car theft

Emotionally exhausting mission: Gippsland Water Police return to shore after attending to the scene of the boating tragedy.

Wire arrest A MALE and female were arrested at Yarram and taken back to Wonthaggi

A 20-YEAR-OLD Korumburra man went on a theft and vandalism spree in the town on Saturday night, before breaking into a car and crashing it into a parked vehicle. “The man left an address in Peterson Street, and, on his way to stealing a car, smashed a window in a house, attempted to get in to a couple of other cars, smashing their windows and taking a CD and some other things,” Korumburra Police’s Leading Senior Constable Brett Guy said. “Then he got into a car which wouldn’t start, but he got it rolling. He rolled it down a hill, around a corner and crashed it into a parked car, which was on a nature strip. He ﬂed from there, but was caught not far away hiding in someone’s garden.

“He was apprehended by police and taken to Wonthaggi, where he was interviewed by police the next day. He’ll face court at a later date.”

Road blitz THE police message for people to be careful on our roads is not getting through to some drivers, with a spate of hooning incidents and crashes. Unfortunately, hoons continue to hoon. But police maintain that if you drive dangerously you will be caught. Police are conducting a safe roads operation called RAID. RAID is an acronym for ‘Removal All Impaired Drivers’. “The main concentration in this area is on drink driving offences, random breath testing sites, that sort of thing,” Leongatha police’s Sergeant Scott Bodycomb said. “There’ll be a bigger visible police presence with a lot of breath testing sites around in the lead-up to Christmas. Dovetailed into that, we will have a TAC funded round of enforcement for drink driving offences.” The extra resources into making sure drivers are not driving drunk is of paramount importance. The problem has been identiﬁed as a big one for the region, particularly during weekends. “We’ll have an extra presence on the roads, hoping to reduce road trauma for the next month,” Sgt Bodycomb said.

Doughnut hoon A 28-YEAR-OLD Leongatha North man had his car impounded after doing doughnuts on a dirt road on Monday, November 16 at about 1pm. “The man was on the Fairbank Road, near the intersection of Wild Dog Valley Road,” Leading Snr Const. Watsford said. “We were contacted by a member of the public, who gave us the registration details. We made investigations and impounded the vehicle of a man from Leongatha North.” The vehicle was impounded for 48 hours. The man will incur a $490 towing fee, but will also have to pay for new tyres before he can retrieve his vehicle. The tyres on the vehicle were bald. “He’ll be charged on summons for a number of offences under the hoon legislation, including careless driving, improper use of a motor vehicle, intentional loss of traction, and using an unsafe vehicle,” Leading Snr Const. Watsford said.

Crash spate CAR crash victims have been lucky to escape serious injury or death, with a number of single vehicle incidents in the past week. On Thursday afternoon last week an 18-year-old Woolamai man crashed his car on the Korumburra-Wonthaggi

Road near Jumbunna. “He went off the road, down a short embankment, where his car stopped. He was in long, dry grass and it caught fire. The CFA crews from Korumburra and Kongwak attended and put it out,” Korumburra Police’s Leading Senior Constable Brett Guy said. “He’ll have a court appearance for careless driving.” On Saturday night another young man in his 20s crashed his car near Clair de Lune winery on the South Gippsland Highway. “He was on the highway and lost control, winding up on his roof,” Leading Snr Const. Guy said. Saturday morning had already seen a crash at Kongwak, with a woman from Moe taken to the Alfred Hospital. “She had her eight-year-old grandson in the car. They were travelling to Wonthaggi,” Leading Snr Const. Guy said. The crash occurred near the Kongwak lookout. “She lost control there, and that was a roll over as well. The car was a write off, but she is okay. She was flown to the Alfred as a precaution, complaining of back and neck pain. The boy was fine,” he said. “Wet conditions were a factor in that one.” No charges will be laid against the woman.

Waratah Bay on alert WARATAH Bay residents gathered last Wednesday night to discuss their high risk status as the coming summer approaches. The Bushfire Safety Meeting was one of five that have taken place or are planned for the area, organised by the CFA. Waratah Bay is one of the top 52 “hotspots” identified by the State Government following February’s devastating bushfires. As well as talking about the new “Prepare. Act. Survive.” survival plan, residents were able to voice any of their concerns for the town. Guest speakers were Robin Rankin, the Community Safety representative for Gippsland, and Lieutenant Bryan Duffus of the Fish Creek CFA. Mr Duffus said the reason Waratah Bay is listed in the high danger category is that there is only one road in and out, there is limited water and it is surrounded by dense bush land. “It is for these reasons that a lot of the coastal

towns along here are at high risk,” he said. Mrs Rankin explained to the 30 in attendance that the ﬁre danger ratings had changed dramatically since last year. Under the new code red Catastrophic rating, residents of high risk areas, like Waratah Bay, are advised that their safest option is to leave the night before, or early in the morning. Under the new extreme rating (one under code red) the advice above still applies, however you can “only stay at home if your home is well prepared and you can actively defend it.” “Over the years I can’t remember a ﬁre that has come in here, but that is not to say it can’t happen,” Mr Duffus said.

“The only thing going in favour of Waratah Bay is the topography. The slope down into the town means a fire will tend to snake down the hill, looking for the best way down, rather than the raging firestorms that have occurred in other areas. It is eight times more ferocious going uphill.” Mrs Rankin stressed the need that as part of your overall fire plan “your own generators and fire pumps are essential”. Mr Duffus also said that a planned “burn-off” will still be taking place. The sprinklers are all in place and, when we get a cooler week, we will undertake the burn-off. Caravan park owner, Jim Harry, stressed the need to have a “local plan” whereby residents are called upon to ensure they are safe and have a plan when extremely hot days arrive. The Star will be looking at how the other towns in the area are preparing for the on-coming summer season. Next week we will look at Meeniyan township.

Residents gather: pictured from left at the Waratah Bushﬁre Safety meeting are permanent resident Marc Moerkerk, with Kevin Da Silveira and Bryan Duffus of Fish Creek CFA, and Robin Rankin.

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PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Plan not ready THE Wonthaggi desalination plant environment management plan is not ready yet. That’s why Bass Coast Council hasn’t received a copy of it. Maurice Schinkel of Cowes, asked about the plan at the November council meeting. CEO Allan Bawden replied that Water Minister Tim Holding had assured council it would receive a copy of the environment management plan. Mr Bawden said despite requests to both Mr Holding and Planning Minister Justin Madden, there had been no response. Mr Madden’s media spokeswoman said when the plan is available for distribution, council will receive a copy.

Prices all up in Inverloch ALEX Scott & Staff, Inverloch sold 29 Gordon Avenue at auction for $445,000. Auctioneer Dennis Ginn said there were three bidders. “The price was about what we estimated the property to be worth,” he said. “The vendors and the purchasers were extremely happy

with the result.” He said the 30 inspections of the property demonstrated the strength of the real estate market for properties selling between $400,000 and $550,000. “If it had have been put up a year ago it would have made high $300,000s to $400,000,” Mr Ginn said. The Inverloch market is the

strongest Mr Ginn has seen it in more than 30 years. A reduction in horses for sale and a big increase in demand suggests more price increases are on the way. “One of the things that is of concern to the industry is that the Bass Coast Shire Council is considering an independent strategic plan presented to them by the con-

sultants and at this stage they are saying the town boundary should stay where it is,” Mr Ginn said. “I would suggest that will lead to, especially if interest rates stay at the historic lows, that it will create the mother of all booms along the coastline and in townships like Inverloch.”

Antiques abound THE action at Meeniyan continues this weekend with the Meeniyan Antiques Fair this Saturday, November 28. The hall will be bulging with antiques and collectables to suit any budget. Doors open at 9am with more than 30 stallholders displaying and selling their wares. The Meeniyan Kinder will provide the catering.

Play it safe AN occupational rehabilitation program has resulted in a big drop in Bass Coast Council’s WorkCover premium. Instead of paying $627,000 like last year or $590,000 the year before, council this ﬁnancial year faces a premium bill of $470,000. “This is a good news story,” said the director of corporate services Danny Luna. “We’re very conﬁdent this program is providing a very safe workplace. “Our aim is to eliminate injuries and to be leaders in the area.” Moving at the November council meeting that Mr Luna’s report be received, Cr Gareth Barlow said, “This is a fantastic result.

Getting wet: Alex Scott & Staff’s Tim Harris holds an umbrella for Dennis Ginn just before the auction moved inside.

Everyone’s happy: house buyer Amanda Tonkin of Glen Iris with auctioneer Dennis Ginn and vendors Steve Harrop and Sue Robertson of Inverloch

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 15

Fawcett set for term two By Bert van Bedaf SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is set for two precedents.

Off to Turkey: Leongatha Rotary president-elect Colin Byatt, Olivia Fiddelaers (Leongatha North), Nicole Clark (Hallston) and Jayden Stratton (Korumburra).

Students off to Turkey

They are Leongatha Secondary College student Nicole Clark of Hallston, Mary MacKillop Regional Catholic College student Olivia Fiddelaers of Leongatha North and South Coast Christian College student Jayden Stratton of Korumburra. For each of them it will be their ﬁrst trip overseas. They will ﬂy out on April 3, be billeted with a family for two weeks and attend school, and go to the dawn and lone pine ceremonies at Anzac Cove. Before they leave the students will research a local digger who died at Gallipoli and while they’re over there will look for their

Grant money to rescue MEMBERS of the emergency services will perform their own “stomp” dance at next year’s Pit Pony Festival at the State Coal Mine Rescue Station. The rescue station’s Dancers to the Rescue has been given a Federal grant of

where a similar student excursion to Turkey, which was successfully concluded earlier this year by the Bairnsdale Rotary Club, was mentioned. What particularly appealed to the Leongatha Rotarians was the opportunity for their club to act as a facilitating link between local youth and the Leongatha RSL sub branch with a view to enhancing interest among many of our younger generation keen to learn more about the history and legacy left by those who are represented by the ageing and ever-depleting veteran community. It is planned that the project will become an ongoing annual excursion and reciprocal visits will be arranged for secondary college students from Turkey to come to Leongatha for month-long exchanges on an annual basis in July 2010.

tombstone. A student was selected from each of the Leongatha secondary schools by the school or the rotary club. Nicole said she wanted to see all the sites where the Anzacs were. Jayden said he thought it would be a good experience to attend the dawn service on Anzac Day. Olivia was looking forward to meeting new people and seeing the culture. “I thought it was a really good opportunity,” she said. “It doesn’t come up very often, the chance to go overseas; it can be quite expensive.” The students will be accompanied by local Rotarian and president elect for next year, Colin Byatt. The inspiration for this new rotary project followed a recent district Rotary convention

$5400, to help stage three days of workshops. These will culminate in a specially choreographed performance celebrating the area’s mining heritage. The Pit Pony Festival is part of ongoing celebrations for the State Coal Mine and the town of Wonthaggi’s centenaries.

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THREE South Gippsland teenagers will mark Anzac Day in Turkey next year as part of a Leongatha Rotary Club initiated trip.

Cr Jim Fawcett looks set for a second term as Mayor and council will be electing a Deputy Mayor for the first time. “Yes, I will be standing for a second term,” said Cr Fawcett, whose style as chair has variously been described by regular gallery members as “unconventional”, “individual” and “unique”. Council’s persistent C48 watchdog Paul Richardson has called him “a bully”, but that hasn’t fazed Cr Fawcett. The two clashed again at the last council meeting, of November 18. However Cr Fawcett dealt with him as if dismissing a recalcitrant student, refusing him to put part of one and the whole of another question. Afterwards, Cr Fawcett said he did not like the “tone or tenor” of Mr Richardson’s questions. “This chamber is not for making accusations by way of questions,” Cr Fawcett said. Cr Fawcett was readily elected last year and has expressed his willingness to run for a second term, which has not been customary. Usually, the Mayoral role rotates after one term. However Cr Fawcett seems to have the stomach and the numbers for it. Councillors David Lewis, Bob Newton, Warren Raabe and Kieran Kennedy do not seem to have the necessary appetite for the job. The field for deputy mayor, to be elected for the first time, is much wider than the power of one and the need for gender balance may tip the scales in favour of a woman deputy mayor. On council are Mimmie Jackson, Mohya Davies, Jeanette Harding and Jennie Deane, of whom Cr Harding might have a sentimental edge as deputy. As for Cr Deane, she has worn the mayoral mantle in the past, but her veteran status might just put her in front of the younger colleagues. The elections will be held at Memorial Hall, Meeting Room 1 chambers, Leongatha, on Wednesday, December 2, 1.30pm. Council meeting will follow at 2pm. The Mayor will be elected first. Deputy Mayor won’t be a paid position, other than receiving the normal outof-pocket expenses in the course of council duties.

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PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

It’s all happening! SOUTH Gippsland has been buzzing with activity lately, as the sunshine encourages people and community groups to get out and about. Meeniyan’s inaugural Carnivale, celebrations at Milpara House, Mirboo North’s moment in the sun, MDU Demons’ family day and a Remembrance Day service at Kongwak were all great events in their own way.

“Magic”: South Gippsland Historical Automobile Club member Trevor Nicholas (Leongatha) and his 1966 Rambler, which were on display at the Meeniyan Carnivale.

New food bank area: Thelma Mostert (food bank volunteer), Bev Hall (Koringal Women’s Service Club – Korumburra), Pam Burley (Koringal Women’s Service Club – Korumburra), Rhonda Chapman (food bank volunteer) and Margaret Brammar (Korumburra Baptist Church) celebrate the extension at Milpara Community House. The club and church supply food to the bank.

Fun day: The rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of these children at Meeniyan Dumbalk United’s family day at the clubrooms on Sunday. Ned (in front) was taking it easy, while (from left) Ella, Holly, Ben, Hayley, Elly and Kirra were also having a rest in the jumping castle.

Meeting the town: Channel Nine Getaway presenter Natalie Gruzlewski meets Mirboo North locals after the show came to ﬁnd out what makes the town so wonderful. Film maker Jacinta Hicken won a competition run by the program that proffered the question: “What puts your town on the map?”

Above: Having a look: Glenn and Sue Byrne (Inverloch) were keeping dry just after they arrived in Meeniyan for Saturday’s Carnivale. More space: back: John Davies (president Milpara Community House) and Sandra Webster (co-ordinator Milpara Community House); front Belinda Smart (co-ordinator Milpara Community House) and Matt Viney (Eastern Victoria MP) at the Milpara Community House extension’s ofﬁcial opening in Korumburra.

Remembrance Day: seventy residents and relatives attended the special Remembrance Day ceremony in Kongwak that marked the rededication of the new Avenue of Honour. Trees from the original avenue, planted in 1918 were dying and name plaques were destroyed. Local resident John Gow, 86, supported by the Kongwak Community Group saw to it a new Avenue of Honour was established thanks to a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The new avenue features seven pin oaks honouring the seven local men A.F. Bell, J.F. Elmore, A.J. Grabham, C.F. Granham, N.P. Rippon, L.K. Scott and W.M. Williams who lost their lives in WW11. A memorial stone was jointly unveiled on the day by Michael Mihaly of Veterans Affairs and South Gippsland Shire councillor Bob Newton.

Lest we forget: Kongwak Primary School students and teacher Jo Tanner attended and placed their handmade poppies on the monument and recited, “In Flanders Fields” Local resident John Gow followed with his reading of “The Ode” and afterwards afternoon tea was served in the hall.

Stage managed: the street performances were a highlight of the Meeniyan Carnivale. Photo courtesy of Gerard Bruning@ www.fourcornersframing.biz

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 17

Exploring Australia

Big sell: Having Australia on sale at Jetset in Leongatha are, from left, Jill Carmody, Renee Cook, Ed Carmody and Fiona Rable. For inquiries, call them on 5662 3601.

Historic site: The Rydges hotel has heritage listed buildings. Antique suites capture the essence of historic Hobart.

Beach pleasures: Margaret’s Beach Resort offers great views, hotel facilities and amenities in a wine-rich region.

Town like Alice: encircled by the MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs is a combination of ancient Aboriginal culture meeting modern day living.

TRAVEL bargains in Australia have never been better. Special packages are on offer to visit destinations right around the country; from sunny Queensland to rugged Tasmania, the majesty of the Northern Territory and ranges of Western Australia to picturesque South Australia and the wide variety of Victoria. Jetset Leongatha manager Jill Carmody is offering packages that are too good to be missed; bookings are available up until December 12 for travel up until March 31, 2010. “These are great deals,” Jill said. “We have access to them on line. They are covered by Travelpoint Holidays. We can organise ﬂights with Qantas, Virgin Blue or Jetstar and all other arrangements.” Booking through Jetset has distinct advantages. Jetset representatives can organise anything, from valet parking at the airport to travel insurance. Very handy is having transport, tickets and passes to attractions arranged by Jetset before taking off. Car hire, bus pick-ups to theme parks can all be arranged beforehand, which makes a short trip trouble-free and time efﬁcient. There is no need

to stand in lengthy queues or waiting for a bus to come along. The quick getaways are a sheer delight. Three nights in Cairns for $85 per person is an absolute bargain, and $129 for the Northern Territory or $159 to Western Australia for three days per person is also extremely attractive. Three nights at the Crowne Plaza in Alice Springs is luxurious. Set against the MacDonnell Ranges, the deluxe hotel offers service excellence and great facilities. The 236 air-conditioned guest rooms feature balconies that overlook the ranges or the heated swimming pool. Other facilities include a gymnasium, spa and sauna, and two tennis courts. A favourite for locals and guests is Hanuman restaurant. Margaret’s Beach Resort in WA offers luxurious accommodation, overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is 10 minutes from Margaret River, which is one of Australia’s most famous places. Apart from its beaches and surf breaks, the resort is close to wineries, caves, arts and craft galleries, national park and other parts of the beautiful Cape Leeuwin-Cape Naturaliste region. Jill said South Australia was one

of the most undersold travel States in Australia, yet it had much to offer, such as the Barossa Valley, Flinders Ranges and, of course, Adelaide. Staying at Clare Country Club, which offers 45 executive rooms with an ensuite spa, ensures relaxing days in a country environment. Only 90 minutes drive north of Adelaide, the Clare Valley provides a wide range of food and wine experiences. The valley offers over 35 boutique wineries, art galleries and antique stores as well as many scenic picnic areas. Rydges Hobart is a place where the charm and grace of the old blends with the polish of the new. The hotel has heritage listed buildings. Antique suites capture the essence of historic Hobart. There’s much to do and see within a 90-minute radius of Hobart, including the Tasman Peninsula and the Port Arthur historic site. A three-night stay in Sydney and Melbourne is always entertaining, whether it is revising familiar terrain or exploring new venues, Jetset will ensure a hassle-free stay. For more details, inquiries or bookings, call Jetset on 5662 3601

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Us time: John Polato and his dog Mac take their daily stroll along the sand at Flat Rocks.

BEACH-GOERS took to the shores of Anderson Inlet and the broader Inverloch coast last Wednesday to take advantage of the surprise hot spell.

Walkabout: Inverloch couple Fred and Elsie Harrison took time out from a stroll along the Inverloch foreshore with dog Shanay to admire the view across to Point Smythe.

Spring fun: Darcy Russell cools off by Anderson Inlet, making sand creations with nanna Marj Russell. Both are from Inverloch.

The scenes were indicative of the looming summer holiday season, when locals and visitors alike take to the water to swim, play, paddle, sail and ﬁsh. Life in Inverloch and surrounds is about the outdoors and that is just what the Star’s camera found.

Play time: Sarah Webb enjoys the fun and colour of Rainbow Park at Inverloch with daughters Annabelle and Matilda.

Hub help

BASS Coast Council is seeking nominations for the Inverloch Community Hub Committee, which will help promote and improve community services offered at the new hub.

Community hub facilitator Cathy Giliam, said it was essential to have strong community input. “The Inverloch community has spent time consulting on the design and construction stages over the past two years and now we are looking for their involvement in the future of the hub,” she said. “The committee will ensure there is regular consultation between community members and service providers in the hub, and council.” All interested members of the Inverloch community are encouraged to apply, no experience or previous involvement is necessary. Meetings are likely to be once a month. “We are aiming to get young people and others who are not aligned with any other formal groups in Inverloch interested,” said Ms Giliam.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 19

Girls being girls: Jenna Tomada of Dumbalk and Jess Burrowes of Leongatha took to Anderson Inlet aboard a rubber dinghy to beat the spring heat.

Spectacular coast: the vast beach of Flat Rocks is an ideal place to ﬁsh, walk, swim and snorkel.

Making Victoria FireReady:

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

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

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

7. If you are on holidays or travelling in Victoria

2. Assess whether your house has sufﬁcient

8. Rural landholders, primary producers,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information contact:

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

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

THERE will be plenty of Christmas cheer in Fish Creek this year. A nativity service at Craig and Belinda Buckland’s is on December 13 at 11am. They live on Whitelaws Track. Carols will be held at the Fish Creek Memorial Hall on December 20 at 7pm. Former Men at Work bandmember John Rees and his wife, Diane, will lead the carols, along with Christian Van Eck. Primary school children will perform a couple of numbers. They will be led by Brenda Thompson. The good news for this event is the new hall toilets will be

operating. Fish Creek Union Church has a Christmas eve mass at 7pm. If you would like to attend a midnight mass, there is one at the Foster Catholic Church. Fish Creek Catholic Church will hold a service at 9am on Christmas day. The Fish Creek and District Primary School will hold a whole school Christmas lunch on December 15. The traditional lunch is prepared by the parents club and features three meats and vegies followed by pudding with custard and ice cream. It acts as an opportunity to say thanks to people such as the bus drivers, cleaners and RE teachers.

The end of the year will be marked with a mini fair, picnic lunch and presentation for the school community on Thursday, December 17. The students will enjoy wet sponge throws, mystery jars and food at the mini fair. Notable awards that will be handed out at the presentations include the Ann Bright art award, Lance Moon improvement award and the principal’s blue light award. School principal Robin Smith said it had been a terriﬁc year. “Teachers and students have worked really hard and we’ve achieved success in many ways, including the recent Kanga cricket victories,” he said.

Christmas stories: Preps Tayla, Tyler and Hannah were getting into the spirit last week.

Buy something useful: owner of Fish Creek Timber and Hardware, Paul Ingleﬁnger, with an outdoor setting. The shop has a great range of Christmas gift ideas.

Counting down: Grade 5s Emma and Gareth are all ready with their advent calendars for December 1. Eye for art: Gecko studio gallery’s Michael Lester with Last train by Michael Chang whose re:render exhibition runs until December 19. Why not purchase a work for someone special this Christmas?

Below: Treated pine: proprietor of White’s Treated Pine, Stephen White, said at this time of the year pine is being used to make decks, pergolas and retaining walls, particularly in the beach areas.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 21

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PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Reducing methane emission LOCAL farmers learned how to reduce methane gas emissions and improve the environment recently. A climate change team from the Department of Primary Industries talked on climate change impacts last Friday evening. They were supported by Greg Bull, who is the chief executive for the Southeast Councils Climate Change Alliance. The evening was run by the Poowong, Triholm, Loch/Nyora and Mt Lyall Landcare groups, and funded by the South Gippsland Landcare Network. DPI extension ofﬁcer Bree Walshe explained how to read weather conditions and how the knowledge gained could be used. She also showed how dairy farmers may be able to adapt their situation to reduce methane gas emissions from their animals and local environment.

Zita Ritchie, DPI climate change ofﬁcer and carbon trading extension ofﬁcer, spoke on the expected changes across Australia and the likely opportunities to arise. It seems that South Eastern Victoria is the expected food bowl region and she mentioned some areas and markets that would become available. Cereal and fodder crop production in Eastern Gippsland was a strong likelihood. Greg Hunt spoke of the effect the changes would have on the community and local councils who were charged with management of local government issues, to provide the best outcome to the residents. Councils had to manage building permits to housing in areas where increasing water levels will inundate coastal fringes, and had to decide where to draw the line between existing settlement and new settlement. He cited a case at Byron Bay where a resident was losing his sub-

stantial home on the beach front and wanted to build a sea wall. Council was faced with who would eventually be responsible for the upkeep of the wall, what happened to his neighbours’ properties and would it stop the problem? Neighbours threatened to sue the householder if he built the seawall, as that would impact on their problems, suggesting a no win situation. He also spoke of the savings that can and are being achieved locally. About one-third of council expense was tied up in public street lighting. By changing the out-dated street lights to the new system, council could reduce their street lighting cost to about 1/4 and have much brighter lights. He also spoke on industry change, alternative power supplies and forming local produce nodes to save transport costs, ensuring fresher and better tasting primary produce to the consumer.

In the know: Callum Hutcheson and Nic Hillam pursued their passion for spreading the word by applying for a cadet journalist position.

Job hunters TEENAGERS got a taste of the workforce during mock job interviews at Leongatha Secondary College on Friday. Year 10 students applied for ﬁctional jobs and were interviewed by local business and community representatives. The opportunity gave students an insight into writing application letters and resumes, dressing appropriately and making an impression during an interview, said school careers advisor, Jenny Goss. “It’s a great experience for the students and helps get them into the workforce,”

she said. Among the jobs on offer included drover, tradespeople, physiotherapy assistant, photographer, ﬁreﬁghter, hospitality and childcare workers, and graphic designer. The interviews also give employers the opportunity to consider prospective staff. Sandra Fleming of Hair Bairs hairdressing salon in Leongatha last year interviewed Skye Hanks. So impressed was Sandra, she later offered Skye an apprenticeship.

DPI team: Zita Ritchie, Jeff Clark, Bree Walshe and Greg Hunt explained climate change on farming.

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See gemstones being faceted. Sales and Displays of Antiques and Collectables including: Gemstones, old tools, jewellery, antique bottles, ephemera, old wares, crystals, old radios, fluorescents, china, fossils, diecast collectables, lapidary supplies, glassware, comics, coins, old books, stamps, old dolls, miniatures, wire wrapping, memorabilia, swap cards, football cards, old toys, craft, beads, corkscrews, old cameras, old clocks and much more.

● Refreshments available ● Free antique appraisals both days Admission: Adults $5, Seniors $4. Children under 16 years accompanied by an adult free Email: trevorp@gipps.net.au or wallywes@tadaust.org.au HOSTED BY MORWELL LAPIDARY CLUB AND GIPPSLAND ANTIQUE BOTTLES & COLLECTABLES CLUB INC. 2009 Expo Sponsored by:

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 23

MITCHELL Charles Boyle was born at Leongatha hospital on October 10. Mitchell is a son for Michelle Boyle and Andrew Brand and a brother for Jessica, Luke and Leah.

RILEY James Matthews is the ﬁrst son for Peter and Michelle Matthews of Kongwak. Riley was born on November 9, and he is the ﬁrst grandson for Jean and Elwyn Matthews and fourth grandchild for Lois and Malcolm McKenzie.

EUAN Harper Cruickshank was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on October 30, to Tracey Cupid and Glenn Cruickshank of Cowes. Euan is a new brother for Maddison 12yrs and Emmerson 3yrs. KAELAN Tyler Warren was born at Waverley Private Hospital on October 23. Kaelan is a son for Troy and Carole and a little brother for Oliver.

EBONY Rose Passarin was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on November 10, to Erin and Tony Passarin of Wonthaggi. Ebony is the ﬁrst child for Erin and Tony. XALIA Jayde Amanda Young was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on November 11, to Fiona Thomson and Scott Young of Cowes. Xalia is a new sister for Tommy and Hannah.

Heartfelt celebration SATURDAY October 24 saw long time Wonthaggi resident Arthur Wilson celebrate his 80th birthday at the Wonthaggi Baptist Church Hall, with over 100 friends and family attending. Family members came from as far away as Alice Springs to congratulate Arthur. After retiring in 1992, Arthur moved to Wonthaggi in 1997. Four heart attacks over a number of years has given Arthur a deep commitment to healthy heart living and he is a passionate supporter of the Wonthaggi and District Branch of Heart Support Australia. In keeping with his community spirit, Arthur requested his guests not give personal gifts at his 80th birthday celebrations but rather make a donation

BLAKE Kodey Eden is the second son for Shea Eden and Miranda Lloyd of Korumburra. Blake was born on November 10, and is a little brother for Riley aged 1 year old.

Right: EAMON Dunbar Berryman was born at Foster hospital on October 13. Eamon is a son for Geoff and Kym of Fish Creek and a brother for Darcy, Grace and Kade.

Party time: Arthur Wilson (with cane) celebrates with family and friends. to Heart SupportAustralia’s Wonthaggi Branch, so as to enable their good work in healthy heart education to continue. Arthur spent his early working years as a motor mechanic in the Brunswick area and after experience in other work areas, settled for a maintenance engineering position with McDonald’s Family Restaurant store in

Mulgrave. In 1951 Arthur met his wife Isobel and four years later they wed. Today they have ﬁve children, all of whom are married. They are also adoring grandparents of 13 grandchildren. Arthur has always been active in community life, having served on Meals on Wheels; he is also a committee member of

Heart support Australia Wonthaggi Branch and both Arthur and Isobel are deeply involved with the Wonthaggi Baptist Church. Their family consider both Arthur and Isobel to be fantastic role models on how to live fulﬁlling lives as they are very caring to each other, their family and the community.

JAMIE Maree Crutchﬁeld was born at Leongatha hospital on September 30. Jamie is a daughter for Eugene Crutchﬁeld and Patricia Baddock of Mirboo North and a brother for Charles.

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Inspiring love of music STUDENTS from Leongatha Secondary College performed musical items to primary school children earlier this month. The junior school band visited Tarwin Lower, Tarwin Valley and Leongatha primary

schools. Year 7 saxophone player Stephen Loftus was given the chance to do a solo piece at each of the schools. This allowed primary school students to see how the instrument worked. Among the musical items played were What I

say, Hot Cross Buns and Power Rock. “If you got one bit wrong, most of the time you hear it because there are only three saxophones in the band,” Stephen said. Flautist and Year 7 student Bianca Boadle said she wasn’t nervous as she played, as she knows

Musical treat: Leongatha Secondary College’s junior school band performs at Tarwin Valley Primary School.

people at each of the schools. Bianca used to hate the ﬂute, but now she enjoys it. “We do a lot of practice by ourselves. I try to do an hour a day,” she said. LSC music co-ordinator Neil Gracey said the tour was primarily to give band members some direction for the year and to help promote the school’s music department in each school. Roy John was the Junior Band director. He is a percussion and guitar teacher with the South Gippsland Schools Music Program. Students keen to join the band can sign up on December 8 as part of transition day activities. The musically inclined should be at Mesley Hall at 7pm. The next day, December 9, is the twilight band awards night on the school oval at 6pm. Everyone is welcome to the free event.

Junior band: Tim Spokes performs a trumpet solo for primary school students.

From the jungle ST Laurence’s Primary School held a book week parade last Tuesday. Many of the students made a big effort to dress appropriately for the jungle theme.

Dressed up: bumblebee Jessica (Prep), bear Cooper (Prep) and lion Kylie (Grade 1) at St Laurence’s last week.

Right: Jungle theme: Grade 2 students Lily (Jane), Luca (Bindi), Alexia (Bindi), Elyshia (Bindi) and Eliza (tiger) during book week fun last Tuesday.

Peninsula wedding RED Hill ill Estate on the h beautiful b if l Morningi ton Peninsula was where Lisa Newman, formerly of Leongatha North, and Travis Sutton of Mount Martha exchanged their wedding vows on November 7. Both the ceremony and the reception were held at the idyllic setting, which overlooks vineyards and the Westernport Bay. Lisa, the only daughter of Ken and Ruth Newman of Red Hill, chose nursing friend Anna and cousin Nicole as her bridesmaids, and Travis, the eldest son of Gary and Julie of Parkdale, was assisted by brother Rhett and best mate Danny as groomsmen. Lisa looked stunning in a Luci Dibella ivory silk and French lace gown. Her bouquet consisted of beautiful antique white and pink peonie roses. Anna and Nicole wore oyster satin dresses and carried hot pink peonie roses. Guests travelled from Dubai, Darwin, Perth, Queensland and NSW to enjoy the party following their marriage, as well as school friends from Leongatha and nursing friends from Monash Medical Centre birthing suite. The two tier wedding cake was a chocolate mud cake made and decorated by a friend’s mother.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 25

Six of the best

THE family of Australian citizens in South Gippsland shire grew with another six people signing up for the green and gold last Monday evening.

It was a quiet but digniﬁed ceremony in Meeting Room 1 of Leongatha Memorial Hall for retired school principal Alistair Hillis, Cambodia-born Chhor Vannek Reth Houl, from Korumburra, and UK couple Neil Stanley with son Cameron and his partner Claire Parnell and her son Liam, all living on a rural property in Mirboo. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Mr

Hillis arrived in Australia in 1959. Much to the delight of his Australianborn wife Lyn, he finally got around to making his Aussie-tag official. Mayor Jim Fawcett was surprised to see Mr Hillis present. Having known him for so long in Leongatha, Cr Fawcett had assumed Mr Hillis had become an Australian citizen a long time ago. But the Mayor was happy to swear Mr Hillis into the fraternity. Ms Chhor Vannek Reth Houl beat her sister Sopeap to the coveted certificate. But Ms Sopeap will become an Aussie next year. On holidays in Australia in

February, 1997, Ms Sopeap met well-known Korumburra resident Pasquale Sarlo. They fell in love and married. They now have a son, David. In July 1997, Ms Chhor Vannek Reth Houl also came to Australia. The sisters were born in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh and are happy to call Australia their new home. Neil Stanley and Claire Parnell with their sons left England’s Midlands seven years ago. The former Stafford family has bought a 10-acre farmlet in Mirboo to enjoy a rural lifestyle. Mr Stanley is a builder.

Top Right: Midlands arrival: From the Midlands, Claire Parnell and her son Liam and Neil Stanley with son Cameron all live on a rural property in Mirboo.

Happy Aussie: It has taken Alistair Hillis 50 years to don the green and gold, but he finally signed the official certificate, much to the delight of his Aussieborn wife Lyn.

Right: Cambodia history: Ms Chhor Vannek Reth Houl (right) left Cambodia behind for the hills of South Gippsland, following her sister Sopeap who married well-known Korumburra resident Pasquale Sarlo. They have a son, David.

Well done Molly Kongwak Rd upgrade MOLLY Carlile has excelled herself by winning an inaugural International Arts and Health Award. She is one of only two Australians to feature in the honours. Her award, one of seven, was presented during an Art of Good Health and Wellbeing Conference held in Port Macquarie. The gathering was billed as offering “an unprecedented opportunity for direct access to best practice policy, programs and research in arts and health”.

Molly’s award was for health promotion. With strong links to South Gippsland, she is now consortium manager with the North West Metro Palliative Care Consortium. She said the award was most unexpected, but she was thrilled by it. Earlier this year, Molly travelled overseas on a Churchill Fellowship to further study the issues of grief and the role of the arts in health, wellbeing and palliative care.

FURTHER work is underway on Kongwak Road to improve the safety of the narrow winding road for school buses and motorists. Bass Coast Shire Council’s Infrastructure Director Steve Piasente, said the upgrade was part of a program to improve rural transport routes within the shire. “Kongwak Road created real safety concerns, particularly for

the school buses that travelled that route,” said Mr Piasente. “The road has undergone a partial transformation so far. A further 800 metres of road west of the bridge towards Glen Alvie is included in this year’s capital works program. “The road will be widened and there will be further embankment work to help improve safety for all the vehicles using the road.” Costing $241,000, the work

will start late this month and should be completed by the end of next April. Drainage at the intersection of Lolands and Kongwak roads will also be improved. The Kongwak Road upgrade is funded by the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery scheme. Approximately 1.7kms of roadworks east of the bridge towards Bena Kongwak Road are partially completed.

A helping hand Take care on the rocks MORE people die in LEONGATHA Rotarians are calling for the Bass Coast Shire after donation of children’s being swept off rocks gifts for Christmas.

Make it merry: Leongatha Rotarians are collecting Christmas gifts for children whose festive season might otherwise be bleak. Past president John O’Connor (left) and president elect Col Byatt, discuss the idea with Louise Matthews of A W Smith.

“We decided to start the campaign early,” said past president John O’Connor. “That way, the gifts can be distributed this year.” There are three collection points: A W Smith gift store in McCartin Street, Leongatha Rural Supplies in Yarragon Road and Stockdale and Leggo in Bair Street. Please don’t wrap the gifts. They should be for children aged from nought to 14. John conceded that youngsters in the 12 to 14 year age group can be difﬁcult to buy for, so he suggested jewellery for girls and Leggo or models for boys. Donations will be collected until December 8.

into the sea, than on the roads.

Bass Coast Council community safety man-

Early years plan AN early years plan responding to the needs of children and families in Bass Coast, is on the drawing board. Council’s Community Services Manager, Liz Wright, said Bass Coast Council will hold community workshops as the first step in developing the plan, which will look to the next five years in the areas of education care, health services and activities for children aged up to eight. The aim of the plan is to outline council’s role in service and infrastructure provision, planning, advocacy and community development. The first two community workshops will be in Inverloch and Coronet Bay in December. The San Remo, Wonthaggi and Cowes workshops will be in February. The workshops will be practical and informative. Children are welcome and light refreshments will be available. The Inverloch workshop is on Tuesday December 8, at the Anderson Inlet Angling Club Inverloch, between 10am and noon. Please register your interest by December 2, with Kerrie Auchettl, on 1300 BCOAST (226 278) or email k.auchettl@basscoast.vic.gov.au

ager Peter Laydon, said nearly ten people had been swept off rocks in the last four or ﬁve years and he is issuing a warning to all in the lead-up to a busy summer. He said the sea can look calm one minute and a rogue wave can sweep in the next. “Never turn your back on the water when you are on rocks,” he warned. As a result of consultation between council, Parks Victoria, the Coroner’s Court, local magistrate and police, “angel rings” have been attached to rocks at Punch Bowl Road San Remo, the scene of several drownings. The rings are there for emergencies. Mr Laydon said when people are swept off rocks, they try to get back to shore, but end up being dashed against the rocks instead. “There are some dangerous beaches in our

shire,” said Mr Laydon. “People should swim at patrolled beaches only and take note of the beach number in case of an emergency.” These numbers are in a yellow triangle at beach entrances and should be quoted to 000 if needed. He advised visitors to talk to locals about which beaches to visit. Mr Laydon said with the warm weather, council is expecting a big inﬂux of holiday makers and day trippers. He suggested planning shopping and trips around busy times would ease congestion and stress. “Respect is really the key to everyone enjoying the summer period. We want people to enjoy themselves, but anti social behaviour will not be tolerated.” Parties, ﬁres and camping are not permitted on the beaches.

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Dairy chief farewells MG By Brad Lester

Grassroots return: after 11 years as chairman of Murray Goulburn, Ian MacAulay is coming back to the farm.

A CHAPTER in the history of Australia’s largest dairy company closes tomorrow with the retirement of its longstanding chairman. Ian MacAulay, a dairy farmer at Alberton West, has ended 11 years at the helm of Murray Goulburn and 18 years as director. He was farewelled by fellow board directors at MG’s annual meeting today, at which new Gippsland directors, Bill Bodman Junior of Won Wron and Philip Tracy of Yanakie, officially joined the board. Mr MacAulay has spent recent weeks touring Victoria and South Australia for his final round of suppliers’ meetings, farewelling farmers. Reflecting on a career of achievements and obstacles, Mr MacAulay said the occasion brought a swell of emotions. “I will miss all the people and the mental stimulation and challenge, but there is no doubt I should move on to give the company a chance to have a change and help (wife) Roslyn with jobs I have not done for 18 years,” he said. During Mr MacAulay’s chairmanship, MG’s turnover has grown from $1.1 billion to $2.4 billion; milk volume increased from 2.4 billion litres to 3.3 billion litres; and assets’ value lifted from $770 million to $1.6 billion. “Considering the ups and downs of the industry, that is pretty satisfying growth. That comes down to good

management, making hard decisions when you have to, not getting carried away with too fanciful ideas and trying to look after our farmers as best as we can,” he said. The company’s tanker fleet has advanced with the introduction of B-double tankers and computer scheduling to improve efficiency. Factory technology has progressed, most notably with the use of membrane technology to separate milk to create new products. Demand for MG products from Asia, particularly Korea and Japan, remains strong. But during the same period, MG’s supplier numbers have dropped 18 per cent, a reflection, Mr MacAulay said, on farmers retiring from the industry

and others going out of business. “It’s a long term trend that will probably continue,” he said. The job has taken Mr MacAulay to Asia and Europe, and broadened his understanding of the dairy industry well beyond his farm gate. Mr MacAulay’s passion for the cooperative structure has not waivered during his term, compounding a view developed while working as an agronomist for fertiliser supplier Pivot and his association with the Yarram Butter Factory. “I have treasured the culture of Murray Goulburn as a down-to-earth, straightforward company with a good relationship with its suppliers,” he said.

The job has come with the responsibility of making unpopular decisions, notably the closure of MG’s testing laboratory in Yarram and massive milk price cuts last year. “Closing the Yarram laboratory was certainly a difficult decision, especially knowing many of the people who worked there,” Mr MacAulay said. “It’s a decision that had to be made and it was not really something that I wanted to do but it had to be done. “But even harder was the decision to drop the milk price last December. That had a huge impact on the whole industry. When we first made the announcement, we got a bit of flack but when the other companies followed, people realised that Murray Goulburn

had the guts to do it first. “There would have been huge losses if we had kept going.” Incoming directors Messrs Bodman and Tracy have been described by Mr MacAulay as “competent Gippsland people” and he leaves the board confident the remaining directors will head in the right direction. Mr MacAulay joined the MG board in 1991, taking over from director Ron Harvey of Carrajung Lower who represented dairy farmers of the Yarram district during various amalgamations that led the Yarram Butter Factory to become part of MG. Leadership is in Mr MacAulay’s blood. His late father, William represented the former electorate of Gippsland in the Victorian Legislative Council for about 30 years and his grandfather’s uncle, James McKenzie was a chairman of the Yarram Butter Factory. Mr MacAulay paid credit to his family, particularly Roslyn, for continuing to run the family farm in his many absences. Retirement from MG will not mean slowing down, but rather entail getting back to work on the family farms and continuing as a director of the Gardiner Foundation, which funds community projects in dairying communities. He also promised himself a spot of fishing here and there. “I will miss the people I have met over the years and because I’ve been away a lot, I have not kept up with the local people as much as I should have,” Mr MacAulay said.

Movember in Meeniyan

WINDMILL Ag at Meeniyan is doing its bit for men’s health this “Movember”.

Seven staff members are growing moustaches, which are looking pretty impressive at this time of the month. People are welcome to donate to the cause in the shop or over the phone. Money raised will go towards men’s prostate care and mental health. It’s appropriate considering much of Windmill Ag’s staff and clients are male. Those who donate will be invited to attend a barbecue breakfast and shave off. The Star hears that some of the moustache grower’s partners are looking forward to the end of the month.

Victory for farmers

Techno whizzes: Toora Primary School students Samantha Hall and Ben Mahomed try out the netbook computers.

FARMERS and dairy companies are rejoicing after a Federal Government announcement that agriculture would be exempted from its Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme.

Good gadget comes in small package SMALL computers have arrived for the kids at Toora Primary School.

A class set of netbook mini laptop computers was presented to the school by the owners of the Toora windfarm, Transﬁeld Services. The set was purchased by a $10,000 grant, which will be made annually by the company to the school. No bigger than a diary, the computers have all the features of a traditionally sized laptop. The 21 computers enable Grades 5 and 6 students to learn wherever they need to,

principal Barbara Purvis said. “They can just pick the computers up and use them outside if they want. They can do group work and interact with electronic whiteboards,” she said. “The kids are used to working on small mobile MP3 players so for them to manipulate these computers is just similar to what they are already doing. “It’s the school’s role to show students and their families what technology is the next step.”

Moustache men: Ben Thorson, Jason Henry, Tony LePage, Ian Sheilds, Mario Poletti and Jeremy Schmidt at Windmill Ag in Meeniyan.

Little kids on big adventures LIFE is hectic when you are a little tacker. Just ask the kids at Toora and Welshpool preschools. In recent weeks, the boys and girls have visited the Toora ﬁre station; talked about spiders, butterﬂies and other insects; and enjoyed a football day. Of course, there also have been regular kinder activities such as drawing and writing.

That’s a hose: Ray Argento of the Toora CFA shows the children of the Toora and Welshpool preschools just how powerful a ﬁreﬁghting hose is.

If included, the cost borne by dairy farmers under the CPRS would have been more than $6000 a year each. The Government has allowed farmers to generate carbon credits, to try to get the legislation passed in the next fortnight. Victorian Farmers Federation president Chris Griffen said the industry was breathing a sigh of relief, but much of the detail was still up in the air. “From a farming perspective, it’s certainly good news that we’re not going to be included. I think, equally, we’d still like to see the processors who are heavily in-

volved in exporting our product - what they call emissions trade exposed companies - given some leniency too,” he said. “Murray Goulburn, Fonterra and other producers are all heavily involved in this process, and we really want to make sure they get some sort of assistance.” The original plan for the scheme had farmers being slugged twice – once through the extra costs that would be passed on by processors and again at the farm gate. Hallston dairy farmer Frank Dekker was buoyed by the news. “It was a relief for me to know we weren’t going to get slugged, so I’m happy about that. It would have been pretty hard for farmers to cop another cost on top of everything else,” he said. “I think this is good news for agriculture in general.”

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 27

THIS Leongatha home overlooks the Nerrena hills, has an impressive open plan area and is surrounded by superb gardens. Read about this Stockdale & Leggo, Leongatha listing on page 30.

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Sea change, life change A

WONDERFUL opportunity exists to set your own pace and live your own sea change in the increasingly popular tourist and ﬁshing village of Port Albert, with this café and gallery, with residence and cottage bedrooms at rear.

Built in 1856, the Port Albert “General Store” (in name only) has been painstakingly restored by its present owners. They have scraped away the paint and render from the old bricks and timber ceiling, and the result is a warm, rustic, stunning haven from which to shelter from Port Albert’s seaside elements, any day of the year. Seriously soaring ceilings and a big open ﬁre all help with that, while the broad glass counter tops ﬁlled with cakes and foccacias, and freshly ground coffee and liquor licence, take care of guests’ internal needs. A sheltered, European-inspired courtyard garden lets them sample the fresh sea air, if al-fresco is preferred.

A split level gallery, with oodles of space also features two more courtyards for “outside wares” or for more sitting around in the sun. Two rooms off the gallery are used for storage and ofﬁce: you could use them differently if you like: they’re a good size. The gallery complex is also enhanced by a little artisan’s workshop in the main courtyard. Towards the rear of the property is the recently completed residence. With just one big bedroom, it’s not meant for families. Comprising an open plan kitchen and living space, it’s eclectic and smart, putting to good use some really interesting recycled materials collected by the owners over the years. It’s comfortable, warm, light and really liveable. There’s a bathroom overlooking a private walled garden through full length glass. There are decks front and back. Two completely separate, cottagesized bedrooms with their own bath-

rooms nestle between the residence and the café/gallery building. Perfect as paid accommodation – think back packers, ﬁshermen – or couples who need little more than a bed. The present owner’s children use the rooms when they visit. At the far rear of the property, there is about another 300sqm of space, presently divided into storage, parking, a shed, vegetable gardens, and paved areas. It’s got potential to really expand the produce side, growing much of your own restaurant food. You could have chooks. This part is really private, away from the gallery and the cottage bedrooms. It’s where you get your R&R, when you are not earning your income, or ﬁshing, or walking the dogs along the pier. The gallery/cafe offers the chance for a completely different life. For the complete tour, please contact the agents or inspect at advertised open times. At a glance Location: 71 Tarraville Road, Port Albert. Agent: Prom Country First National, Meeniyan. Contact: 5664 0224.

Auction action F

OUR properties were passed in at auction on the weekend of November 14 and 15. ‘Strathalbyn’ at Mirboo North’s auction by SEJ, Leongatha and Pat Rice & Hawkins attracted about 40 people on the Saturday. This property featured a four bedroom period residence on 2.63 acres. It is now for sale at $725,000. Pat Rice & Hawkins also had ‘Bundara’ up for auction, with about 20 people attending on the Saturday. The 3/4 bedroom home at Loch

is on 3.6 acres and includes stunning landscaped gardens. It is on the market for $658,000. Iconic Inverloch property, ‘The Cliffs’ was passed in on a vendor’s bid of $2.5million when Harcourts, Inverloch tried to auction it on November 14. The property features amazing views, close to the beach, 80 acres and a three bedroom Victorian homestead. It attracted huge interest, with 120 people watching on the day, 120 phone inquiries and 21 inspections.

The vendors will consider offers above $2.75million. Three Grandview Grove at Inverloch was passed in on a vendor bid of $500,000 on November 15. Alex Scott & Staff, Inverloch had a number of people inspect the property beforehand. The three bedroom home is only 100 metres from the beach. About 35 people attended the sale. Negotiations are underway with a conditional buyer. The property is on the market for $528,000.

Gift from Simonds Homes

IMONDS Homes has teamed up with leading brand names to offer up to $33,000 worth of savings in a pre Christmas special for new homebuyers

Simonds prides itself on making the process of buying a family home as stress free and straight forward as possible. Simonds state manager, Lionel Waddell said they are a housing and land specialist. “We have done all the homework for our customers and can offer many fixed price house and land packages in great locations on land already selected across Victoria,” he said. “House and land packages can be quite flexible and together with our online program ‘Fusion’, customers can see all the options that can be added to a floor plan, then all they have to do is select the locality.” Meanwhile Christmas has come early to Simonds, with the Merry Early Christmas’ promotion offering new homebuyers one of four great gifts. Mr Waddell said “this is a fantastic Christmas offer as our customers can really choose the Christmas gift that suits them.” First home buyers can also still take advantage of $29,500 worth of grants in regional areas. Simonds can guarantee a con-

tract before the cut off date if a deposit is made by November 30. (Conditions apply). “We employ 500 people in our Victorian operations and directly impact hundreds of tradespeople and suppliers,” Mr Waddell said. “On every home project there would be up to 70 tradies involved in the build, and when you’re building 1500 homes a year for Victorian families, it amounts to a huge commitment.” For more than 60 years, Simonds has been building quality homes in Victoria. As times change and builders come and go, Simonds’ proud heritage of quality workmanship and innovative design has earned them the accolade of Australia’s most awarded builder. Mr Waddell said what truly sets Simonds apart is the commitment to their customers from their employees, contractors and suppliers, which is reﬂected in their mission statement ‘we’re in it together’. “And that means the Simonds team is there throughout the homebuilding journey and continues through to servicing and maintenance,” he said. “That’s why I can conﬁdently say to anybody looking to build, come and talk to us at Simonds because we are in it together.”

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 29

Town convenience, rural aspect T

HOSE looking to retire into Leongatha will appreciate the elevated aspect of this home overlooking the hills of Nerrena. Superb gardens make the home appealing from the moment you arrive and include a welcoming splash of colour, with a variety of roses and other ﬂowering species predominant. An outstanding feature is the spacious open plan living and dining area with an option of reverse cycle air conditioning, gas or electric heating. This room is well appointed to the tim-

ber kitchen and meals area complete with electric wall oven, dishwasher and ample storage space. Three bedrooms near the master bathroom each have built-in robes and quality window furnishings. The home is situated on a manageable block of land with a carport that can easily house two cars, plus there’s a lock-up garden shed for garden tools. A large verandah along the rear of the home is ideal for enjoying the afternoon cup of tea. Invest for now or the future, your inspection is invited.

At a glance Location: 14 Callaway Crescent, Leongatha. Price: $275,000. Agent: Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 5800.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Great position; solid home T

HIS three bedroom brick home is an easy walk to the supermarkets and CBD in Leongatha. Located at 20 Trease Street, the home is packed with features. The three bedrooms include a master with a shower, and built-in robe. A good sized kitchen/dining room

has tiled ﬂooring, electric wall oven and griller, tiled splashback, skylight and ceiling fan. An archway leads into the lounge room, which has a timber feature wall, downlights and windows to the ﬂoor. The bathroom has a single vanity and also a bath. Outside offers an outdoor

entertaining area including a built-in brick barbecue, three garden sheds and a secure rear yard. Surrounded by a well established garden bursting with spring colour, this home would suit a ﬁrst home buyer or an investor. Inspection is a must - and strictly by appointment.

At a glance Location: 20 Trease Street, Leongatha. Price: $262,000. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 0922.

Soak up the sun in Inverloch THIS very light and bright three bedroom Inverloch residence boasts a pleasant sun room to relax in and enjoy either entertaining or soaking up the sun. It would suit a family or could be the ideal investment for someone. A new kitchen and fresh paint throughout has brought this beauty to life. Features include reverse cycle air conditioning, pantry, dishwasher, good size laundry, en suite to main bedroom and walkin robe. There’s plenty of

storage room, a barbecue area, and workshop/shed out the back. The north facing backyard has plenty of room for the family and friends, plus there’s a double garage with entry through to the back yard. Walk to the beach and recreation ground. The shops are only a four or ﬁve minute walk away from this property. At a glance Location: 30 Dixon Street, Inverloch. Price: $395,000. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Inverloch. Contact: 5674 1111.

Endless possibilities near beach T HIS home is a fantastic bargain.

It is within spitting distance of the local shops and a very short walk to the pristine beaches of Venus Bay. The home boasts two bedrooms, cathedral ceilings, polished ﬂoors and open plan living. The property has a bungalow at the rear of the home, which can be utilised as a third bedroom. It is on two blocks, each with separate title. Spruce up the house and build a new one next door. The possibilities are endless. Whichever way you look at this property, you can see the value and future potential. Don’t miss out on this one.

At a glance Location: 1-3 Vulcan Lane,Venus Bay. Price: $249,500. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff,Venus Bay. Contact: 5663 7111.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 31

Prom Country Y N DA E R P O ATU S S HI

Y N DA E R P O ATU S S HI

ultra modern, brand new - 5 acres, stunning view BENA Architecturally interesting & just completed Langford Jones home on an amazing 5 acre parcel, on a bitumen road. Ideal easterly vantage, with a northerly aspect to expansive open plan living zone. 2 bathrooms, 3 bedrooms, study, kitchen with stainless appliances, split system air conditioner and enviro-friendly pellet heater. Timber deck, paved surrounds, large colorbond garage, abundant water from tanks and dam, fenced paddocks, thriving perimeter plantings. Rural surrounds, breathtaking views – forever! Open to inspect Saturday, 12.30-1.00pm Address 832 Anderson Inlet Road, Bena Price $440,000 - $480,000

farmhouse charm in town LEONGATHA “Bellevue” is an extended and renovated home with a modern country kitchen, open plan living, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 3 wcs. Features include polished timber ﬂoors, 3.6m ceilings, double carport and double garage, gorgeous gardens with abundant fruit trees. Open to inspect Saturday, 11-11.30am Address 22 Worthy Street, Leongatha Price $290,000 - $320,000

Y N DA E R P O ATU S IS

under

ct a r t n c 13 acres, permit, house plans! NERRENA You will need to build within the guidelines of the planning permit quickly, so this is priced to sell now! Plans for 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom plus study home. Fenced to suit horses, with loose box and tack room, troughs to paddocks, dam, and areas of fenced native vegetation and plantings. Dream no more! Address Meeniyan-Nerrena Rd, Nerrena Price $160,000 - $175,000

live in or rent out LEONGATHA This young townhouse will suit the owner-occupier or investor, with a practical ﬂoor plan including a kitchen with quality cabinetry and dishwasher, adjoining tiled meals area, comfortable living room, 2 bedrooms with BIRs, private courtyard, an over-size single garage with direct internal access & remote control door. Address 17/4 Miles Court, Leongatha Price $210,000 - $225,000

Wow What a reno! MIRBOO NORTH Stunning renovation with all the 1940’s character intact: high ornamental ceilings, double hung windows and some rendered internal walls. Features incl. new parquetry ﬂoors, new carpets, modern kitchen, gorgeous bathroom vanities, huge decking at rear, verandah at front with lovely parkland views. Three bedrooms, double garage, rear laneway entry, and fully rewired, re-plumbed, re-roofed & re-stumped: it could be new! Walk to shops & rail trail. Inspect Saturday, 12.30 -1.00pm Address 22 Inglis Ave, Mirboo North Price $250,000 - $275,000

Y N DA E R P O ATU S IS

S “Old Colonial Bank of Antiques & Craft” ~ circa 1907 MIRBOO NORTH The opportunity exists to both live and work from one premises right in the middle of Mirboo North’s township. Possessing beautiful period detail including leadlight, deep skirting boards, Baltic pine flooring, ornate fireplaces and picture rails, the building comprises 6 generous rooms and updated kitchen, on a large block with rear lane access. The site’s flexibility provides many options including renting the retail space and accommodation to different parties. Inspect Saturday 1.30-2.00pm Address 60 Ridgway, Mirboo North Price $310,000 - $340,000

cottage appeal MIRBOO NORTH The cottage appearance of this appealing residence belies the expansive home inside! A quality rear extension has resulted in a 3 or 4 bedroom (+ study) home plus with at least 2-3 living spaces, rear timber deck, a spacious back yard and a wide double carport, all set amidst colourful cottage gardens. Address 14 Giles Street, Mirboo North Price $295,000 - $320,000

best views for the money MIRBOO NTH Enjoying elevated rural views, and rented at $200 per week, this property offers excellent returns. On 591sqm (approx), with 3 bedrooms, lounge, updated kitchen and single carport. Across the road from the Secondary College, with walk through access to Strzelecki Highway, you can’t go wrong! Address 5 Castle Street, Mirboo North Price $150,000 - $165,000

D AND

LISTE

ct a r t n c neat and sweet FISH CREEK town & country charm MIRBOO NORTH This beautifully presented and superbly maintained You CAN have it all! A character cottage just residence is a real surprise package! Set back from the minutes to the shops, on 1.5 acres! It’s gorgeous: this road, with rural views front and back, delightful gardens historical home has original timber features, stained and lawns, carport and shed, the 3 bedroom home is hardwood floors, picture rails and magnificent views. light-filled, with a modern, neutral décor. Pens for chooks/pets, shedding, circular drive, fruit Address 34 Old Waratah Rd, Fish Creek trees, 2 BRs and 2 separate living areas - a cutie! Price $190,000 - $210,000 Address 50 Giles Street, Mirboo North Price $310,000 - $339,000

land of opportunity KOONWARRA This outstanding parcel of land is nearly 1800sqm and is just 150m to the centre of the village of Koonwarra. Design and build your dream home or weekender, or contemplate the business potential of constructing a retail or service-oriented premises. Driveway is in, water is on, land is cleared! Savour the village lifestyle. Address 13 Koala Drive, Koonwarra Price $160,000 - $175,000

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corner the meeniyan niya yan ya n market MEENIYAN On a low maintenance corner block, this 3 bedroom plus study (or 4 bedroom) house is a rare Meeniyan ﬁnd! A spacious lounge and dining room, gorgeous pink kitchen with pantry and dishwasher, built in robes, 2 bathrooms, garden shed plus double carport. Address 2 Royston St, Price $275,000

SUMMER’S COMING!

93 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan

SOLD

DAY SAME

under

lisa williams ms

5664 0224

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 33

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Broadbeach café to open By Jane Ross SUE and Greg Roylance will manage a new café at the Broadbeach Resort Village in Inverloch. The well-known couple have run the Tarwin Lower Hotel, Venus Bay Store and Café Pajez and will call their new venture Manna Gum. That’s in honour of the sweeping tree that is part of the vista from the ﬂoor to ceiling windows that make up one wall of the restaurant area. The Roylances are excited by the prospect of opening a restaurant in such a glorious setting. They have room for a bar that leads to the adjoining restaurant and an outdoor deck near the manna gum. The restaurant itself is big, with the capacity to seat 120. The Roylances hope to open on January 1 and eventually serve three meals a day, seven days a week. The Malaysian, Thai and north and south Indian food for which Café Pajez became known, will be on the menu, together with more plain food for those who prefer it. Manna Gum will be part of the commercialisation of the community hub at Broadbeach, a lavish centre which was to have served residents of the retirement village partly built by AMP. Omni Property Group has bought the site and is seeking alterations to the Bass Coast Council development overlay on the site. Greg and Sue are upset that a letter sent to neighbours and others refers to overlay alteration plans including a “hotel

FOLLOWING a call by Council for submissions regarding C48 hardship issues, we received approximately 80 responses which have now been collated and reviewed by Councillors. In line with Council’s resolution from its meeting of October 7, Council has forwarded all submissions to the Minister for Planning for his consideration. While our review did not identify signiﬁcant numbers that strictly met the criteria applying to Mildura, we recognise that our circumstances are different and need to be pursued with the Minister. We have requested that the Minister meet with a Council delegation to discuss such issues with a view to identifying,

component”. This has created consternation in the community and, according to the Roylances, is completely incorrect. They say they are applying for a restricted licence that will serve their restaurant trade until 11pm. The Star was taken on tour of the community centre, which is splendid. It includes tasteful décor, a 27 seat cinema, well appointed gymnasium, full commercial kitchen and indoor and outdoor pool and spa. Omni director Lou Garita, said the development in its current form would not work for either its future residents or the Inverloch community. Facilities in the community centre, including an outdoor tennis court, will be available to Inverloch residents as well as those living at Broadbeach. “The resort complex will be renovated and will involve local business people in running the complex.” Ross Splatt, director of Rescom Inverloch, will run the accommodation side. A total of 178 full and part time jobs are expected to eventually be created at the resort, not including those in construction. An open day will be held at Broadbeach Resort Village on Saturday December 5, between 1 and 3pm. Omni will present a brieﬁng to Bass Coast councillors on their plans for the north west section of the Broadbeach site next month.

if appropriate, any hardship circumstances that may warrant concessions within the Planning Scheme. The responses have conﬁrmed to Council the level of concern and anxiety within the South Gippsland community in relation to the impact of Amendment C48. Council remains committed to understanding and, where possible, addressing the concerns within the community. While this may not be achieved by the C48 hardship negotiations, Council will continue to seek a sustainable and long term resolution of rural planning issues through the ﬁnalisation of the Rural Strategy. Other important planning issues are also being progressed by Council. Last week a two day independent Planning Panel

Local hands: Ross Splatt (left) of Rescom Inverloch will run the accommodation side of Broadbeach Resort Village, while Sue and Greg Roylance hope to open their Manna Gum restaurant in the complex at the beginning of next year.

Hearing took place in Leongatha in relation to the implementation of strategic plans for Leongatha, Foster, Mirboo North and Loch. In conjunction with Council’s own submission, the Panel heard from a range of interested parties within the affected communities. Having attended part of the Hearing myself, it was great to see the level of thoughtful comment coming from the community and extremely pleasing to witness complex matters being progressed through a mature and respectful partnership of all stakeholders. We expect to have the Panel’s recommendations before Christmas which Council will consider in early 2010. Cr Jim Fawcett Mayor

History grows again MEENIYAN recently staged a re-enactment of the planting of a tree by 10-yearold Frank Hanily in 1918 as part of the local RSL’s 90th anniversary celebrations.

Frank’s son Gerard Hanily (left) and Meeniyan and District RSL president Peter Hill were on hand for the ceremony at Tanderra Park. The original tree was removed from outside the Post Ofﬁce in 2008. The original dedication plaque, which was removed at the time, has found a new home next to the freshly planted tree in Tanderra Park.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 35

The Leongatha Lyric Theatre held its annual general meeting on November 16. This is an edited version of the report by Lyric president Mark Eva, who will stay on next year for a third term.

Exciting year for Lyric THE year 2009 for Leongatha Lyric Theatre has been a tough, sad, but exciting year. With the recession and the demise of SESI (with our savings), our local community and businesses have had to tighten their belts, so community ventures, such as Lyric, found it difficult finding sponsors and finding “bums”

on seats for all of our performances. The sadness for us all was the passing of a very good friend to Lyric, Steve McAlpine, a person who will be hard to replace. Still, with all the adversity, the committee and our membership pushed on and produced amazingly exciting shows for the year. Our performance year

New committee members: are from left, Cheryl Harris, with Lyric president Mark Eva, Serena Ball and Mick Dortmans. Ofﬁce bearers will be elected at the next committee meeting.

started off with the successful end of year touring show 2008. Directed by Brad Beach and Paul Smith, once again the dedicated “Boggs” cast played to packed houses. Congratulations to all involved with The Rain Maker, especially to Tim Edwards, nominated for best actor in a comedy, and Peter Gilbert for best supporting actor in a comedy at the VDL awards. At the GAT awards, Shout, directed by Peter McAlpine, was nominated for the best show, along with many nominations in all categories. The Rain Maker, directed by David Tattersall was also among the nominations. Congratulations to all on the awards received. The 2009 musical Witches of Eastwick was a wonderful and exciting show. The sets and costumes were stunning. Thanks to director Brad Beach, musical director Glenn Calder, vocal director Cheryl Connor, choreographer Rose WrayMcCann, set and costume design Colin Mitchell, production manager and make up Bron Beach, costumes Chris Beehag and Serena Ball, set construction Neil

Warren and his team. Special thanks to Steve Ball for the welding, lighting Mat Saario, sound Brett Van Hoorn, hair Marie Arestia and team, publicity and sponsorship Kerena McLaren. Our play reading group has met regularly throughout the year and have been having a great turn-out. Meetings have moved to Lyric premises and anyone wishing to attend is more than welcome. Contact David Tattersall or Jo Street for more information. The next major production for the year was A Little Hotel on the Side The committee approached Raymond Dunstan to direct a play. Opening night was in September. A talented cast produced a wonderful and funny play. The last major production for the year is the travelling Christmas show, Deja vu Review. It has started its tour. The ﬁnal performances are on Thursday, November 26 at Meeniyan Bowls Club, Friday at Leongatha Bowls Club and Saturday at Leongatha Bowls Club.

Proud parents: Steve and Serena Ball were proud of their daughter Tamika, who received this year’s Leongatha Lyric Theatre Geoff Perrett Rising Star Award. Lyric treasurer Peter McAlpine, who directed Shout in 2008 and will direct High Society for Lyric in 2010, is on the right.

Rising star has a Ball MUSICAL star Tamika Ball won the Geoff Perrett Rising Star Award during the Leongatha Lyric Theatre annual general meeting at the Lyric Eagger studio last week. Tamika won the award for her rising talent in musical performance, contribution to Lyric in three shows and her desire to gain a career in the performing arts. Involved in Grease in 2007, she did not have a role, but made her mark in Shout the following year, singing Ave Maria. This year she broke through in the Witches of Eastwick with another of Leongatha’s young talent Josh Gardiner,

Church Times ARIES - March 21 - April 20

Leo and Scorpio people play key roles in your affairs. The emphasis is on communication - make overdue emails and telephone calls and call a family conference. TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

Health and recreation are the themes of the week. You may consider yourself a little straightlaced for a new sport, but you can enjoy yourself beyond all expectations. GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

The week starts off in a humdrum way and your ideas backﬁre. Make perseverence and consistency your keywords and you will be surprised by productivity. Spontaneous outings are of the most delightful kind. CANCER - June 22 - July 22

Trial and error are the week’s themes, but humour is included as well. This is an excellent time for giving your home a bright new appearance. Lengthy negotiations come to a satisfying conclusion. LEO - July 23 - August 22

You can be unrealistic now, so you are bound to have a couple of disappointments. Socialising on the weekend may be marvellous, especially if you happen to be the host. VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

This is the week to make a new start. Money begins to ﬂow, but don’t make a public statement about your successes. Good news regarding a friend arrives after the weekend. LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

A long awaited opportunity ﬁnally arrives, but now you may not be in a situation to take advantage of it. The reason you are so busy has a lot to do with love, so don’t be too upset. SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

You could reach a crossroad during this week and it may be time to think about making an important career or domestic decision. Romance is on the upswing. SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

This is a week of delays, rearranging schedules and unexpected work and guests. The surprise news is that it turns out to be an exciting time - despite or because of the complications. CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

Recent uncertainties clear up by the weekend. You will be called on to show resourcefulness now. Beware of anyone coming on too aggressively, especially regarding ﬁnances. AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

Machines and computers are not co-operating too much and delays further slow you down. But with romance, everything seems to be in good working order. Intuition is potent from Thursday on. PISCES - February 20 - March 20

You are in an artistic frame of mind and there is also a ﬁnancial theme to the week. Perhaps the answer is to frame some pictures or submit a manuscript for publication. BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

You are sensitive, emotional and very chatty. People criticise you for being an eternal child, but that can be one of your most endearing qualities.

ANGLICAN: Wednesday, November 25: 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Sunday, November 29: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Contemporary Worship with HC; 10.30am St Andrew’s, Tarwin Lower, MP. ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am. ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am. ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion. CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984. THE CHURCH AT ARCHIES CREEK: Meeting every Sunday at Archies Creek. Morning Communion Service 11 am: Evening Holy Spirit Revival 6pm: Phone: Ps. Chris Chetland 5674 3867 or 5672 4660. ASSEMBLIES OF GOD: Prom Coast Community Church Inc. - Foster Community House, Station Street, 10am: Sunday. Sunday School and Creche operates. Pastor Bill Watson 5686 2248. A.O.G. Inverloch - Cnr Bear and McIntosh Street, Inverloch. Sunday Service 10am; Imagine Christmas Day Service 9am. Contact: Jeff Robertson, 0418 125 832 or Imagine Burwood 9888 7466. Korumburra Southern Hills A.O.G. - 4 Mine Rd, 10am and 6pm: Sunday. Also Children’s Church and Creche. Contact: Pastor Vic Butera 5655 2478. Youth: Neville Stuart ph. 0407 343 219. Leongatha South Gippsland Liberty Fellowship - 17 Michael Place, Leongatha. Sunday services: 11 am and 7pm. All enquiries contact Pastor David Stegmann 5662 2785. Office: 5662 3100. Wonthaggi A.O.G. - Billson Street, 10am: Sunday. Contact: Pastor Barry Smith 5672 3984. CHRISTIAN REVIVAL CRUSADE: 40 Hughes Street, Leongatha. Sunday, Morning Service 10.30 am: Inspirational Service, 6.30pm: Children’s Church 10.30am: Home cells weekly; Kids Club Thursdays 4pm Guide Hall. For all enquiries contact 5664 5455.

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST: Saturdays, Church service 10am., Leongatha Sabbath School - 11.30am. CATHOLIC: St Laurence’s Parish Leongatha: 5 pm Mass Saturday, 11am Mass Sunday. Tarwin Lower: In St Andrew’s Union Church, 5pm winter, 6pm summer Mass Saturday. Meeniyan: 9.30am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 11am, 2nd and 4th Sundays. Mirboo North: 11am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 9.30am Mass, 2nd and 4th Sundays. St. Joseph’s Parish Korumburra: 9.30am Sunday Mass. Loch: 5pm/6pm Daylight saving Sunday Mass. Wonthaggi: Saturday evening 6.30pm: Evening Mass; Sunday, 10.30am: Mass. Inverloch: Sunday 9 am: Mass. KORUMBURRA’S WOMEN’S AGLOW: First Monday every month at Korumburra Day Centre, Korumburra Hospital, Bridge St., Korumburra at 7.45pm. Inquiries phone 5657 2214. GIPPSLAND CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Strongly family oriented church meets at the Senior Citizens Centre, Mirboo North, Sundays: 4-5.10pm Communion, 5.15-6pm Bible Studies for Adults, Youth and Children. Friday evenings: Home Fellowships 7.30pm; Youth Activities. Enquiries: 5668 2226 Bob Stevens. SALVATION ARMY LEONGATHA COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 52 Anderson Street (South Gippsland Highway) - Sunday: Family Worship at 10am: Kid’s Club - Tuesday, 4 - 5pm; mainly music, Thursday 10am. All welcome. Please contact Captain Martyn and Heather Scrimshaw, ph. 5662 5122. SALVATION ARMY WONTHAGGI COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 149 McKenzie Street every Sunday at 11am for Family Worship. Kids' Club - every Tuesday at 4 pm, Women's Group - Wednesday at 1.30pm, and Playgroup - Friday 9.30am. Evening Ladies' Fellowship - First Monday each month and Youth Groups held monthly. All welcome. Please contact Lt. Robyn and Max Lean. Ph. 5672 1228. PRESBYTERIAN: Weekly Worship Service 10am Sunday, corner Bent and Turner Streets,

Leongatha. Phone Rev. Dr D. Clarnette 0409 236 981 or elder Col Rump 5662-2107. CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH: Reformed Church meeting at the corner of Peart and Brown Streets. Sunday family service at 10.30am. (10am daylight saving time), creche and Sunday School available. Teaching service at 7.30pm. Fortnightly youth activities. Home Bible Fellowship groups. Contact 5662 2762. Minister: Rev. Ron Nauta. UNITING CHURCH: Leongatha: Sunday, November 29, 9am and 10.45am. “Life to the Max” 7pm. Mirboo North: 9.30am. Meeniyan: 10am. Wonthaggi: Sunday 9.30am, Family Service, all welcome. Inverloch: Sunday 11am: Korumburra: Sunday, 9.30am: Rev. Geoff Smith and Rev. Jim Foley, 5655 1997. BAPTIST CHURCH KORUMBURRA: 39 Mine Rd, Korumburra. Service and Sunday School 10.30am. Pastor Ian Wilkinson. Phone 5658 1366. BAPTIST CHURCH WONTHAGGI: Cnr McBride & Broome Crescent, Wonthaggi. Morning Service & Children’s Activities, Sunday 10am. Weekly activities see www.wonbaptist.org.au, Pastor Geoff Pegler 5672 4769. MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Sunday, 10am: Meeniyan Youth Club Hall. COMBINED CHURCHES WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH: 4th Sunday each month at 7pm. SCOTS PIONEER CHURCH: Mardan South. Pleasant Sunday Afternoons on the last Sunday of each month at 2pm. See occasional ad in this paper for details. For enquiries phone 9853 6627. FISH CREEK UNION CHURCH: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 9am; 2nd & 4th Sundays, 7pm. Contacts: Fran Grimes 5683 2650, Sue Poletti 5663 6325.

playing the young couple in love. She made her debut in musicals with the Foster Amateur Music and Drama Association in 2007 and returned for a starring role in Into the Woods this year. She has been dancing for 10 years and is a longstanding student of Lisa Pellin Dancers in Leongatha. Tamika, 17, has her heart set on musical theatre, combining her acting, singing and dancing skills. It is the career of her dreams. She lives with her farming parents Steve and Serena and equally talented younger sister Rhiarna, 16, in Middle Tarwin.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8198

1. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 14. 16. 19. 22. 24. 25. 26. 27.

ACROSS Unresponsive (4) Cloth (9) Relative (4) Clothed (4) Encounter (4) Stalk (4) Frighten (10) Evil (10) Type (4) Mountains (4) Title (4) Port (Yemen) (4) Deadlock (9) Secure (4)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 12. 13. 15. 17. 18. 20. 21. 23.

DOWN Category (5) Thrust (5) Hammer (6) Haphazard (6) Cheese (4) Amuse (9) Tickle (9) Exploit (4) Twilight (4) Generator (6) Hostility (6) Country (5) Caper (5) Fish (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8198 ACROSS 1. Manage to get the policeman to come to the point (4). 7, A litte nourishment for the dog’s consumption (4,2,3). 8. A marine band (4). 9. Skedaddled, which is sinister (4). 10. Fall for a boring pain in the neck (4). 11. Date one boy (4). 14. At which you won’t find a band of robbers!(6,4). 16. How the pilot said “Grow up!” (4,6). 19. Takes action and gets us back to quarters (4). 22. Rock back when touched (4). 24. Mean to get the blueprint (4). 25. The female left the day after, worried (4). 26. Private transport? (5-4). 27. Love of mathematics (4). DOWN 1. The plants, when it’s cold, I do have inside (5). 2. A composition, or only part of it (5). 3. Ring dad back first and plead (6). 4. What makes a moving broadcast not moving? (6). 5. Claim to have in one’s possession (4). 6. Shilly-shally as to whether, empty, I’ll occupy it (9). 12. Leaving for something new (9). 13. Pops up in turn (4). 15. Bananas for creatures at the zoo (4). 17. Show out of and ask questions to (6). 18. Free the deserter the soldier’s holding (6). 20. In practice, giving the American agency half (5). 21. Speak, on that account, with authority (3-2). 23. There’s a number, all right, in the corner (4).

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Creating artistic link AGELESS and proliﬁc, Venus Bay artist Julia Price has joined Agnes artist Marilyn Ardley in a joint exhibition at Meeniyan Art Gallery.

Human connections: Marilyn’s interest in painting allows her to explore the range of relationships between humankind and the environment.

The exhibition, called Link, opens on November 29, 2-4pm, and will run until December 24, 2009. Gallery curator Winsome Richards said painting and other mediums had brought the two artists together, linking their artistic inter-relationships. At 80, Julia has been a stalwart of many exhibitions and prizes during a career spanning many decades. Her trade mark style, which blends an abstract approach with ﬁgurative expression, has taken a backseat of late and her output has entered a phase of greater realism.

However, one of the paintings in the exhibition, Follow my Footprints, retains traces of her earlier work. The painting is a passionate portrayal of a mother and child, emphasising Julia’s great humanity as an artist. Marilyn Ardley is no stranger to Meeniyan. Her work was also shown at the gallery last year. Much of Marilyn’s work is described as “intuitive”, linking humankind with the environment. “The spiritual connection with the land and the people who live in it is a major inspiration for my work,” Marilyn said. “Sometimes it expresses itself as the turmoil of our existence, attempting to discover the beauty within.” For exhibition inquiries, call the gallery on 5664 0101.

Artistic stalwart: Venus Bay artist Julia Price has been a stalwart of many exhibitions and prizes during a career spanning many decades.

Father and daughter: pictured are Michael Chang with his daughter Nina standing in front of Last Train (railway building in Fish Creek) which is a computer rendering.

Rendering sales THE opening of Michael Chang’s exhibition at Gecko Studio Gallery last week attracted great interest. “The exhibition went very well with a large turnout and good sales. We expect continued strong interest in his remarkable

Prom to sing Handel THE Prom Coast Singers choir will participate in a Carols by Candlelight service at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre on December 20. “We’ll give a performance at the Carols by Candlelight service of a few from Handel’s ‘Messiah’, including the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ and possibly ‘For Unto Us a Child is Born’, plus some solo work,” choral director Paddy Broberg said. The Singers did the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ about eight years ago and received an “incredible reception”.

works,” Gecko co-owner Michael Lester said. Called re:render, the exhibition will run until December 19. It shows a striking series of computer generated images and ink drawings. For inquiries, call the gallery on 5683 2481.

Gallery changes by Christmas The Leongatha Gallery will undergo a few changes before Christmas. The popular art space will become more commercial and move towards a shop/gallery model, whereby more attention will be placed on offering more artists opportunities to sell their work. The plan is to have a carpenter provide advice on costs to provide additional hanging space for paintings and maybe some display units. The large display cabinet may be sold. There is an interested buyer. The changes are expected to be made before Christmas.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 37

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Collecting for hampers YEAR 7, 8 and 9 students at Leongatha Secondary College have been making a difference for those less fortunate. They’ve been bringing food and toiletries to put in boxes wrapped in Christmas paper, which will be given to the Salvation Army to distribute locally in food hampers. Student welfare co-ordinator

Sheena Cumming said each pastoral class on the junior campus had three boxes to ﬁll. There’s also a box in the staff room. “The kids have been really good and they’ve brought in some nice stuff including new toys,” Ms Cumming said. Monday mornings have been a particularly popular time to bring

items in, after a weekend shop. The collection is encouraging students to think about other people. “We were trying to make the point to them that when you run out of your can of Lynx or whatever you just go and get another one,” Ms Cumming said. “Some people can’t afford a can of Lynx; it’s $5.99.”

Helping out: Year 7E students Jess Casbolt and Ash van Rooy with some of the food collected at Leongatha Secondary College.

Trucks skip centre JUST 104. That’s the number of heavy vehicle movements through Leongatha as a result of the desalination plant. South Gippsland Shire Council Director of Infrastructure Anthony Seabrook said this number was based on indications from Aquasure. To avoid the centre of Leongatha trucks go down Long Street, then take the South Gippsland Highway to Koonwarra before heading down the Koonwarra-Inverloch Road to access the Bass Highway.

Book raffle THE Friends of Leongatha Library have been registered as a community charitable organisation, to conduct raffles. The friends’ group raises money to pay for equipment and improvements to the library. In the past financial year, more than $6816 was raised and spent on items for the library shelves and helping to buy an ancestry database. Around 650 hours of volunteer time was spent on a variety tasks. Gifts are sought for a Christmas hamper raffle. Donations can be left at the library. Any donations for the annual January book sale held in the old Leongatha Courthouse, are welcome too. Volunteers are needed to help at the sale.

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star One year ago, November 25, 2008 Leongatha man Don Bellingham is lucky to be alive after lightning struck near him as he walked, ﬂinging him from one side of Shingler Street to the next. **** The staff and residents of Wonthaggi nursing home, Rose Lodge, have bid farewell to administrator, Terri Burns. Ms Burns worked at the home for 23 years. Five years ago, November 23, 2004 Walkerville beef farmer Bill Bray has been elected as president of the Cattle Council of Australia. The former president of the Victorian Farmers Federation’s livestock division is widely regarded for his focus on herd quality. **** Leongatha footballer Jarryd Roughead is bound for Melbourne after being recruited by AFL club, Hawthorn. Roughead was pick number two in the AFL Draft. 10 years ago, November 23, 1999 The Leongatha Industrial Estate

will be better promoted with the appointment of a marketing ofﬁcer dedicated to the estate. Mike Wrigley, a South Gippsland Shire councillor, will seek investment, develop business and marketing strategies, and promote the estate. **** More than 120 people joined in a fun run along the Great Southern Rail Trail from Leongatha to Koonwarra. The third annual event was organised by the Leongatha Little Athletics Club. 30 years ago, November 27, 1979 Two of Australia’s top cyclists, Laurie Venn and John Trevorrow competed against Leongatha Cycling Club members. But the pair were no match for Leongatha’s Chris Baudinette, who won the 800m handicap after Venn failed to catch him just on the ﬁnishing line. **** Australian test cricket umpire Jack Collins umpired a match between Leongatha Technical School and Oakleigh technical schools. While Leongatha lost, the students enjoyed the rare experience.

It’s me: John Watson with a portrait of himself. The well known thespian recently celebrated his 70th birthday. His excellent singing voice has given him the lead in many amateur theatre productions in Leongatha, Foster, Wonthaggi and Warragul. The Watson family has a long history as farmers and butchers in Leongatha.

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“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 43

Female cattle prices firm, bullocks and VLE Leongatha store sale bulls cheaper at VLE Leongatha EVEN though there was more competition, and there was a good number of quality cattle penned, demand was not as strong at VLE Leongatha last week. This was seen especially in the bullock section of the sale, where prices averaged 7c to 9c/kg lower. The balance of the larger penning of cattle mostly sold at rates close to, or at recent levels, and a small number of yearling heifers were dearer. The penning of 240 young cattle comprised mostly of yearling heifers, and most of these were in good to very good condition.

Demand was steady and prices ranged from 3c dearer to 2c/kg cheaper, which saw most make between 118c to 157c/kg. A small selection of lighter weight steers sold mostly to restocker competition, making from 126c to 164c/kg. In the larger penning of 490 bullocks and steers there were a lot of heavy and extra heavy bullocks. These, and most of the yarding were of good to very good quality. However, even though there was more competition with one of the more regular buyers returning to the market after a few months away in NSW, prices were lower. On paper averages were 7c to

9c lower, but some of the reason was the number of very heavy bullocks sold. These prime C3 and C4 bullocks made from 143c to 146c, while those best suiting the Japan market made between 148c and 154c/kg. The average price was only 147c/kg. Manufacturing bullocks made from 130c to 148c for better quality, with Friesians making between 122c and 136c/kg. The quality varied greatly over the penning of 420 cows, with a lot of good quality beef cows penned, but equally a lot of heavy through to very light plain quality cows were sold. Coupled with the extra competition, and qual-

ity, prices for better quality cows were ﬁrm to 3c/ kg cheaper. These good quality cows made from 116c to 130c, while larger frame dairy cows made

between 112c and 128c/ kg. Restocker competition assisted in the trends for other cows, with the leaner cows making from 75c to 118c/kg.

Wednesday, November 18 BULLOCKS 2 Lackenby Nom, Leongatha 23 J. & M. Bostdt, Drifﬁeld 14 J. Ebeohls, Glengarry 14 N. Littlejohn, Mirboo 6 M.A. & B.J. Hall, Loch 1 H.E. Barlow, Jack River STEERS 1 P. Moore, Foster 7 G. & J. Schepers, Won Wron 12 K. & J. Rattle, French Island 7 Lackenby Nom, Leongatha 1 V.R. Love, Boolarra South 3 L. Harrison, Dumbalk COWS 1 D. & H. Bassed, Waratah North 7 R.J. & A.R. McRae, Tarwin South 1 A. & A. Blachford, Balnarring 1 R.J. & C.M. Pearson, Hedley 1 P. & N. Hutchinson, Yinnar South 1 Geodan Family Trust, Loch HEIFERS 2 D. & H. Bassed, Waratah North 1 G.A. & W.A. Watkins, Yanakie 1 A. Stuart Investments P/L, Staceys Bridge 7 Lloyd Hengstberger, Dumbalk North 1 E. Dunn, The Gurdies 1 K. & J. Rattle, French Island BULLS 1 G. & S.A. Cannata, Leongatha 1 J. Fattohi, Mardan 1 M.J. & L.M. Brunt, Poowong 1 K.F. McRae, Dalyston 1 Woorayl View Nom, Leongatha 1 A.R. & S.J. Brown, Drumdlemara

570 613 622 632 716 595

155.0 883.50 153.6 941.00 153.0 951.00 152.6 964.00 150.0 1075.00 148.0 880.60

425 320 519 526 275 490

164.0 160.0 157.6 155.0 150.0 148.2

697.00 512.00 817.00 814.86 412.50 726.18

595 554 535 605 700 570

130.0 130.0 130.0 130.0 130.0 130.0

773.50 720.57 695.50 786.50 910.00 741.00

453 475 405 500 445 510

157.2 157.2 146.0 145.6 144.6 142.0

711.33 746.70 591.30 728.00 643.47 724.20

147.2 145.0 144.6 142.0 142.0 140.0

1376.32 1174.50 1135.11 1270.90 1349.00 1148.00

935 810 785 895 950 820

Thursday, November 19 Total yarding: Bulls - 4 av. $413.75, cows - 71 av. $831.23, calves - 79 av. $11.44, cows and calves - 93 av. $833.23, heifers - 202 av. $416.55, steers - 1025 av. $545.21, springer - 1 x $700. Bulls J. Balsay, 1 x $470; J. & W. Allman, 3 x $395. Cows M.J. & L.M. Brunt, Poowong, 8 x $1190, 1 x $1150; D. & F. Rash, 12 x $930, 6 x $785; Nalajule Nominees, Leongatha, 5 x $875; Fasdion Nom, Middle Tarwin, 7 x $770; S. & S. Ford, 3 x $740; P. Cashman, 9 x $730, 14 x $718; T. Taylor, Inverloch, 5 x $670. Calves A.N. & T.L. Geary, 4 x $226. Cows and calves P. Scott, 13 x $960, 7 x $940; J. Fattohi, 1 x $950, 17 x $915; S.I. & C.A. Harrison, Giffard West, 3 x $940,

2 x $860; J. & J. Watts, 3 x $930; R.A. Jackson, Staceys, 1 x $870; M.J. & L.M. Brunt, Poowong, 4 x $800; M. & H. Paterson, Ruby, 3 x $800. Heifers Landcaster Lodge, 1 x $690, 2 x $545; R. & J. Dargaville, Fish Creek, 1 x $560; Norma Belcher, Woodside, 16 x $558; R.H. & M. Greaves, Tarwin Lower, 1 x $545, 4 x $492; R.A. Jackson, Staceys, 2 x $500; S.I. & C.A. Harrison, Giffard West, 6 x $500; R. & J. Trease, 1 x $490; Potters Produce, Stony Creek, 9 x $450. Steers Landcaster Lodge, 2 x $875; B.J. & T.L. McCormack, Mirboo North, 1 x $830; P. & K. Fearnley, 1 x $815, 1 x $815; W.S. Roberts, 7 x $810; The Firs P/L, 1 x $745, 1 x $725; J. Agostino, 7 x $740; B. Casey, 1 x $716; C. & C. Gregory, 9 x $705. Springer J. & W. Allman, 1 x $700.

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Future in farming LEONGATHA South’s Callum Moscript was given the junior encouragement award as part of the South Gippsland Jersey Breeders Club on farm challenge.

a fair amount of power about them and are able to produce large amounts of milk. The Holsteins are a strong framed animal, so they can keep walking all day while the Jerseys are a bit smaller. So they both have their strengths. We just enjoy both breeds as they both have different things going for them. It’s good to diversify in whatever you do.

The 17-year-old South Coast Christian College student is keen for a future in the dairy industry. He is particularly interested in breeding and has an impressive ability to remember cow families. To increase his knowledge he has spent a week at Genetics Australia in Bacchus Marsh and is doing a schoolbased apprenticeship in agriculture. Callum is the son of Chris and Janine and spoke to Star reporter Chris Brown last week. With the on farm challenge, what was your role with the cattle? As a family we all enjoy the on farm challenge. It gives us something to compare our cows to other people’s cows. I help out with picking the animals out, giving them a general tidying up and neatening the tail, and general stuff like that. When you’re picking them out, what do you look for? We look for a type of cow that has, what we call, ‘dairyness’. They need to be a decent size, decent stature, and have sound feet and legs, with the ability to give lots of milk so they have a solid form. Do you get good at recognising those things in cows? It’s probably something I’m improving at every time I do it. But I’ve seen some of the better judges do it and they’ve taught me a lot of

How’s it going on the farm at the moment? We’re going alright. We’re just cutting hay and getting ready for silage. We’re joining cattle at the moment. It’s fairly busy... (With the milk price drop) you’ve just got to ﬁnd ways to cut costs. It’s just part of our life. You don’t know what it’s going to be, so you really have to be ready for any situation. For example ﬂushing cattle has decreased this year, we’re not buying many cattle and we’re culling harder. We’re very harsh this year. If a cow has something wrong with them they are straight on the truck.

On the farm: Leongatha South 17-year-old Callum Moscript can see a future in agriculture. stuff. It’s something you have to work very hard at. I’m gradually improving, which is a good thing. Is it something you can study or do you just have to go out in the paddock? For me, the way I improve is getting out there and doing it. But some people may ﬁnd they can study to improve their judging.

old I found I really enjoyed it. I loved getting out there and helping out on the farm. I like the breeding side of cattle...I’ve always been what you’d say a businessman, so I like the whole marketing side of it. I wouldn’t mind doing that for a career; helping people ﬁnd the cow or embryo or bull that is right for them. I’ve always enjoyed marketing, going to sales and helping out, and talking to people.

Is farming a big interest for you? When I was younger I never thought I was going to work on a farm, but by the time I was about 12-years-

Tell me a bit about the family farm here? I’m the fourth generation on this farm and we milk up to 300 cattle all

year round. It’s a mixture of Holsteins, Jerseys and cross breds. It’s a family farm so we have my dad, my aunties, mum, grandad and my grandma who helps with rearing calves. It is a strong family atmosphere. It’s certainly not a one man band. That’s the way it works for us. Everyone’s good at certain aspects and that really creates a strong happy team. What’s the reason behind the Holstein and Jersey mix? The Jerseys are a very efﬁcient producer and are normally fairly tame and a quiet breed. The Holsteins have

VLE LEONGATHA KOONWARRA

Sale Draw November 25 1. Landmark 2. Elders 3. SEJ 4. Alex Scott 5. Rodwells 6. David Phelan & Co

With your future in agriculture what’s the dream? It would probably be to take over the farm. I’d love to go over to Canada and America and do the showing stuff. It would be awesome. It’s a completely different world over there. Australia has learnt, and is learning, a lot, but in Canada and America everything is just immaculate and beautifully presented. The quality of cow over there is outstanding. They’ve got the biggest show in the world. It’s just a great opportunity to network and meet people from around the world with like minded interests.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 45

Fire plan essential THE Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is highlighting stock safety measures that producers should have in their sights for the impending fire season. DPI District Veterinary Officer Jeff Cave said in the event of fire, a comprehensive bushfire plan that is enacted early will help to prevent stock losses and reduce risks to personal safety. “Recent fires have highlighted that good preparation and early action are essential to prevent losses during fire. Your life must be paramount,” Dr Cave said. “One of the key factors in minimising risk to stock during a bush fire is to identify the safest areas on the farm where livestock can be moved. “The area you choose will depend on the type of livestock you are farming and their expected behaviour during a fire as well as the possible behaviour of a fire.

Dr Cave said on either the day before, early on the day of predicted code red (catastrophic) fire danger or when there is a fire alert in your district, stock should be moved into these lower risk areas. “You should also listen to weather forecasts and observe your own environment to help you decide when to put your plan into action,” he said. Examples of safe areas include paddocks with green summer crops or lucerne; bare paddocks with no dry feed; or a ploughed paddock. Areas where there are dams or swamps are also safer. “Stockyards have been known to successfully hold stock during a fire and if this is your preferred option you need to consider using a sprinkler system as stock held together on a hot day can suffer heat stress,” Dr Cave said. “A firebreak of some sort is imperative, bare laneways and ploughed breaks can be effective firebreaks as can heavily grazed paddocks with

low-level vegetation. “Horses should not be locked up in small areas or stables but be moved into an open paddock with minimal vegetation so they can move freely.” Horses are known to be capable of moving themselves to safer open ground and suffer minimal burns if left to do so. If equipment such as rugs, halters and flyveils remain on horses the plastic may melt and buckles may burn, however a halter will leave a horse easier to manage so discretion is needed depending upon the circumstance. “It is not recommended to allow stock onto public roadways as in smoky conditions they will be a hazard to vehicles,” Dr Cave said. “Having an action plan that can be quickly executed during a fire would ensure the risk to stock is minimised.” For further advice please contact the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or your local DPI Veterinary or DPI Animal Health Officer.

Soils head field day themes SOIL types, water drainage and crop trials were discussed by farmers across Gippsland at the Southern Farming Systems Spring ﬁeld day. The day started with an examination of the soil pit at a trial site and discussions about soil types led by David Rees, DPI soil scientist. He facilitated a practical demonstration of the relationship between soil structure and water ﬁltration and for a short time volunteers became ‘soil colloids and water’. Southern Farming Systems president John McDougal also participated in the practical demonstrations to illustrate water drainage patterns. The discussion of soil structure and management

was followed by a presentation on the East Gippsland soil carbon project by Heather Adams, DPI. The project has identified base line levels of carbon across a range of soil types and farming enterprises. Norm King from Pioneer gave an overview of Canola Agronomy and reviewed new varieties. Greg Forster, Forster Rural concluded the presentations with a summary of the results of Southern Farming Systems Water monitoring project. The Gippsland project explored water use efficiency by crops in different soil types and illustrated the capacity of cereal crops to draw available moisture from deeper levels of the soil profile. Participating farmers had soil moisture readings undertaken weekly and were able to use this infor-

Up front: Southern Farming Systems president John McDougal demonstrates water drainage. mation to inform their crop management decisions. Variety trials were then reviewed by Rohan Wardle, research and extension agronomist and Ben O’Connor, trainee research agronomist from Southern Farming Systems together with Tim Brown from

Highleaze seeds. They commentated on the performance and suitability of different varieties in the local environment. The trials included grazing trials with wheats and canola, and extensive grain variety trials including triticales, barleys, win-

ter wheats, spring wheats and canolas. More than 100 different varieties were reviewed. The trials looked magniﬁcent, and the discussion and notes provided deﬁnitive information to inform farmers variety selections for the next season.

Researching dairy in Gippsland

Officially opening the new $6.9 million facility in Ellinbank last week, Agriculture Minister Joe Helper announced nine new scientific and technical staff had been appointed at the facility and six new PhD students would undertake research to provide support to the dairy industry. Mr Helper said research at the Victorian Department of Primary Industries (DPI) facility would focus on improving feeding practices and feed efficiency for the dairy sector and mitigating agricultural greenhouse gas emissions. “A successful dairy industry is vitally important to our future. Dairying is Australia’s third largest rural industry and around two

thirds of Australia’s 8800 dairy farm businesses are located in Victoria,” he said. “Because feeding equates to 50 to 80 per cent of the total cost of running a dairy farm, improvements in feeding systems and feed efficiency can make a significant impact to a farm business’ bottom line.” Market and community expectations are for highquality milk to be produced with less environmental impact and greater sensitivity for animal welfare. The facility will enable important research and development into feed efficiency to both optimise farm production and ensure cow performance, health and welfare. The Ellinbank research facility is a result of a joint funding agreement between Dairy Australia and the State Government and was announced in June this year. Dairy Australia

managing director Mike Ginnivan said the partnership with the Government allowed for maximisation of research and ultimately the best results for dairy farmers.

“The Ellinbank Centre will be at the forefront of dairy research and a big part of future dairy research,

development and extension investment,” he said.

Love Tender Beef? Home delivered direct from the farm

Visit

www.redhillsbeef.com.au or phone 0412 407 316

2004083

A WORLD class research facility at Ellinbank will drive innovation in the dairy industry and create new regionally based jobs.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Classifieds public notices

PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350 public notices

public notices

Scots Pioneer Church Mardan South Sunday, November 29 2pm

If you are interested in being part of this Committee, nomination forms and the draft Terms of Reference are available on our website or by contacting Community Hub Facilitator, Cathy Giliam, on the number below.

independent members whose term expires on 31 December 2009. Council is calling for expressions of interest from people who may be interested in one of the three positions, including the Chairperson. Each position is for a two year period. The attendance fee is dependent upon the skills and experience of the people appointed. The appointees will have detailed knowledge and experience in the operations of a large organisation and an understanding of nancial, management, reporting and governance practices. An inquiring mind and the ability to analyse information will assist in carrying out these roles.

Nominations close on Friday, 18 December 2009 and should be sent to Inverloch Community Hub Facilitator at the address below or emailed to c.giliam@basscoast.vic.gov.au.

Persons interested in registering an interest should contact Sharon Fowles on the number below or s.fowles@basscoast.vic.gov.au to obtain an information kit.

The Committee will provide an opportunity for regular consultation between community members, stakeholders and Council about promotion and improvement of the services offered as part of the Inverloch Community Hub.

Expressions of Interest for Audit Committee: Council has an Audit Committee that advises it on matters of nancial accountability and internal control. The Committee has three

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

Bass Coast Shire Update Would you like to be a part of the Inverloch Community Hub Committee?

Sell it in the "Star"

Pre-Christmas Celebrations Music by: Darryl Hunt and ensemble from South Gippsland Shire Brass Band Patrick Lanigan and Dorothy Warren EVERYONE WELCOME Afternoon tea served

WOORAYL LODGE FETE Saturday, November 28 9am White Elephant Stall Cakes & Snowballs Devonshire Tea Plants & Craft Mini Pancakes Rafﬂes and Sausage Sizzle Support your local aged care hostel

Expressions of interest must be received by the Chief Executive Of cer by 5.00pm on Friday, 11 December 2009.

Bass Coast Shire Council, 76 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi, VIC 3995 | DX 34903 Wonthaggi | PO Box 118, Wonthaggi, VIC 3995 | 1300 BCOAST (226 278) for standard call cost | basscoast@basscoast.vic.gov.au

POUND CREEK FIRE BRIGADE Would like to thank the following who contributed to their very successful Trivia Night held on October 24, 2009: Landmark Wonthaggi, Murray Goulburn Wonthaggi, Mitre 10 Inverloch, Kelvin Johns Retravision, Great Southern Outdoors, Countrywide Clothing, Craig Young’s Butchery, Middendorp Electrics P/L, Shone’s Nursery P/L, Kevin & Debbie Scott.

DECLARATION OF SERVICED AREA

public notices

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

0422 998 025 1800 611 368

KONGWAK MARKET Sunday from 10am Inside & out! It's great, no matter what the weather! Vintage, collectables, Retro, stamps, trash, treasure, organic dried things, gorgeous local veg, coffee, curry, snags, massage, music, and so much more... Warm-up under the heaters

Call Jane for more info 0417 142 478

2-14 Parkside Close, Leongatha

Kongwak market is a smoke free event

In accordance with Section 144 of the Water Act 1989, notice is hereby given that lots within PS622588S have been provided with sewer services and are now liable to be rated as a serviced property as from August 12, 2009. Steve Evans Managing Director South Gippsland Water

Mirboo North COUNTRY MARKET Baromi Park 8.30am - 1pm

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

Contact Maxine 5668 2465

CHIROPRACTOR

Garry Harrison

www.basscoast.vic.gov.au

NEWHAVEN COLLEGE In Quietness and Conﬁdence Shall Be Your Strength

EXHIBITION OF YEAR 9 ‘ACT NOW’ PROJECTS Government of Victoria Appointments to the Board of the South Gippsland Region Water Corporation

5.00pm – 8.00pm Thursday 26 November 2009 at the Year 9 Environmental Centre 1750 Phillip Island Road Sunset Strip

Contribute your skills to securing Victoria’s water future. The Victorian Government is seeking suitably qualified and experienced people to fill Board vacancies on the South Gippsland Region Water Corporation (trading as South Gippsland Water). South Gippsland Water provides water and sewerage services to customers within its region which includes Cape Paterson, Leongatha, and Yarram.

ALL WELCOME For further information, please contact: Mr Ric Pearce, Head of the Year 9 Environmental Centre Ph: 5956 7505 email: pearcer@newhavencol.vic.edu.au www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

Under Board direction, authorities must build strong partnerships with their communities and customers and deliver high quality and sustainable water services to their regions as part of the Government’s Our Water Our Future action plan. Boards must demonstrate a strong commitment to integrated water resource management, with a focus on environmental, economic and social sustainability. Applications are now invited from people with relevant qualifications or experience in one or more of the following disciplines: • water industry or other service utility • natural resource management • engineering • commercial business • capital program delivery • law • corporate finance • strategic planning • economics • risk management

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

Selection criteria are: • An understanding of key strategic issues in achieving sustainable integrated water resource management • Demonstrated understanding of the importance of integrating social, environmental and commercial demands • Ability to achieve commercial outcomes and effectively deliver essential services in a regulated environment • An understanding of the role, duties and governance obligations of members of statutory boards • Proven strategic planning skills • Demonstrated leadership skills and experience at the highest decision making levels; • Demonstrated ability to build partnerships within the community and a strong commitment to consultation and delivering excellent services to regional Victoria.

19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday By appointment Ph: 5674 8290 CHIROPRACTOR NORMAN G. VRADENBURG “NON-FORCE PRACTITIONER” 28 Reilly Street, INVERLOCH HOURS - Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday by appointment Phone and fax 5674 3666 South Gippsland Chiropratic Services & Adjunctive Therapies P/L

situations vacant LEONGATHA SECONDARY COLLEGE

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring the diversity of our boards represent the diversity of our communities. Women, indigenous persons, people with a disability, young persons and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Remuneration will be paid to Board members in accordance with Government policy.

2010 TRAINEESHIP Outdoor Education

Background information on South Gippsland Water can be obtained by contacting Ms Mary Fowler, Executive Assistant on (03) 5682 0444. Expressions of Interest forms may be obtained at www.ourwater.vic.gov.au/boardappointments or by contacting the Customer Service Centre on 136 186. Expressions of interest close Monday 14 December 2009. Expressions of interest are to be submitted preferably via e-mail to water.governance@dse.vic.gov.au Confidential Water Corporation Board Membership Department of Sustainability and Environment PO Box 500 East Melbourne, Victoria 8002 Late applications will not be accepted.

mitch29974

Alternatively documents can be posted in an envelope marked:

Commencing January 2010 Applications close 27/11/2009 Contact Tony Clark 0448 813 641 Forward written applications to: Leongatha Secondary College, Private Bag 1 Leongatha 3953

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 47

situations vacant

POSITION VACANT

situations vacant

NEWHAVEN COLLEGE In Quietness and Conﬁdence Shall Be Your Strength

TEACHER

UHT MILK LEADING HAND / OPERATOR Longwarry Food Park is a fast growing business and was listed as # 1 in the BRW Fast 100 for the year 2008. The plans include expansion of capacity and diversification into other dairy products. It is an opportunity for individuals to join the UHT processing group at the time of installation and build the facility to operate efficiently. The positions are based in Gippsland, Victoria. The successful candidates must have held a similar role within a food company. Experience on Tetrapak UHT packing machines (TBA 8 / TBA 21 or others) will be preferred but not essential. This role involves troubleshooting, product quality and shift work. With your mechanical aptitude and awareness of food hygiene standards you will be practical and hands-on in your approach. This is an outstanding opportunity to join an excellent team and work for an employer that values its people. A full time position and negotiable salary package, based on experience, is on offer. Send your resume to: Don Woodhouse 31-41 Mackay Street, Longwarry, 3816 don@longwarry.com Phone: 5629 9551 - Fax: 5629 9553/ 9646 8779 MP1296

Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College, South Gippsland

TEACHERS of Mathematics, Science and VCE Chemistry Can you demonstrate an active commitment to the ethos of a Catholic school? Do you have strong ICT skills and an interest in eLearning? Then why not visit www.mackillopleongatha.catholic. edu.au and complete an application form? Written applications, including the names of three referees, should be submitted to the Principal as soon as possible but no later than Tuesday December 2, 2009.

Year 7 and 10 Mathematics and Year 8 SOSE Ability to teach Year 7 PE would be an advantage. This is a full time, one term Long Service Leave replacement position, from Monday 25 January to Friday 26 March 2010. Forward curriculum vitae including names of three referees to: Michael Brewin, Principal Newhaven College Boys Home Road, Newhaven 3925 Ph: 5956 7505 Fax: 5956 7131 email: mary.brown@newhavencol.vic.edu.au www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au Applications close: Friday 4 December 2009 An Independent Co-Educational School on Phillip Island, Prep to Year 12

situations vacant

EXPERIENCED farmhand. Full time position available in a diverse farming operation near Leongatha. Ph: 0429-350450.

NEED CASH in hand, earn $100-$200 pw. 8-10 hours delivering and collecting catalogues. No outlay. Call 1300-663161.

LEONGATHA 7B Anderson Street

NIGHT AND WEEKEND STAFF REQUIRED Please apply instore, by mail, or online www.subwayho.com.au Phone 5662 2599

Environmental Officer - Biodiversity Full Time - Ongoing Traralgon

Rose Lodge, a 70 bed low care facility, is seeking applications from a Div. 1 Nurse who is motivated and dedicated to work in Aged Care, three flexible days per week. Rose Lodge is looking for someone who can utilise their clinical skills whilst enhancing the lives of our Residents and also manage a highly skilled and dedicated team. Rose Lodge is in the planning process to expand, with a 30 bed High Care facility to complement the current structure therefore offering the opportunity for advancement to the right person. An attractive salary package will be offered to the successful applicant. Enquiries can be made to Ella Duder, Manager on 5672 1716. Written applications with a full resume can be posted or emailed to: Trevor Godenzi, CEO Rose Lodge 225 Graham Street, Wonthaggi, Vic. 3995 E: trevor@roselodge.com.au Applications close Friday, December 4, 2009

Casual Teaching @ Chisholm for 2010 Bass Coast Campus is offering trade and professionally qualiﬁed people the opportunity to register for roles as casual teachers for 2010 in the following program areas:

The remuneration range is $61,944 - $89,767 and includes 9% superannuation and a full private use vehicle option. A Position Description can be obtained via our website or by emailing kellyr@wgcma.vic.gov.au

• Children’s Services • Hospitality – Food and Beverage & Housekeeping • Tourism • Business Administration • Civil Construction • Community Services

For further information contact Shayne Haywood, Land Team Leader.

For further information, contact Helen Lechte, (03) 5671 2301. For more information and to apply online go to:

www.chisholm.edu.au/jobs Enjoy ﬂexible career options, work-home life balance, health and well-being programs, recognition for merit and the pride of contributing to society ZO962012

Applications addressing Key Selection Criteria should be marked; ‘Environmental Officer - Biodiversity’ c/ HR/Payroll Officer and must be received by 4pm on Friday 27th November. Email applications may be sent to kellyr@wgcma.vic.gov.au Geoff Hocking Chief Executive Officer

Correspondence PO Box 1374, Traralgon VIC 3844 Telephone 1300 094 262 Facsimile (03) 5175 7899 Email westgippy@wgcma.vic.gov.au Web www.wgcma.vic.gov.au

ZO921565

REGISTERED NURSE DIV 1

The Environmental Officer - Biodiversity role requires you to have a strong understanding of natural resource management, particularly related to catchment management, biodiversity and pest plant and animal issues and processes.

PAGE 48 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

situations vacant

AGM

Sunday, November 29 At 4pm AT THE CLUBHOUSE All members encouraged to attend Enquiries: Secretary Frank Dekker 5668 5285

situations vacant

A position exists for a highly motivated

JUNIOR PERSON for General Office Administration for a valued client of our firm The successful applicant must be willing to do a traineeship in all aspects of office administration. Applications and resumĂŠs in writing to: The Manager Perrett & Associates P/L PO Box 336 Leongatha 3953 Email: admin.@perrettandassociates.com.au

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>kcWd H[iekhY[i E\Ă&#x2026;Y[h Temporary part time position â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 0.6 EFT We are looking for a suitably experienced Human Resources OfďŹ cer to join our Organisational Development Team for a temporary period until June 2010. Your responsibilities will involve providing Human Resources operational support and delivery of a range of services across the organisation including assisting with recruitment and selection, induction and the provision of information relating to the Award, Enterprise Agreement and other employment policies and procedures. You will have relevant generalist human resources administrative experience and ideally have successfully completed a certiďŹ cate in Business or Human Resources ďŹ eld. You will also have excellent interpersonal and highly developed computer skills, with the ability to maintain attention to detail whilst managing competing demands. We also welcome direct discussion with Sharni Mann regarding this role. Applications addressing the selection criteria are to be submitted by 5pm Friday 4th December 2009 addressed to: Human Resources, South Gippsland Shire Council, Private Bag 4, Leongatha 3953 or emailed to council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Further information and a position description is available from Human Resources on (03) 5662 9200, or visit www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

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Rural Financial Counsellor - Gippsland RFCSV-Gippsland has a six month vacancy to cover a long service leave absence. This position may be extended depending on circumstances. Rural financial counsellors provide assistance to primary producers, fishers and small rural businesses experiencing financial difficulties by analysing their financial circumstances and identifying their financial and business options. Rural financial counsellors help clients identify ways to become self-reliant and better equipped to manage change and adjustment. Key Responsibilities â&#x20AC;˘ Analyse clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; farming or business activities and financial circumstances. â&#x20AC;˘ Provide case management support to clients where necessary. â&#x20AC;˘ Facilitate clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; negotiations with lenders and financial institutions. â&#x20AC;˘ Provide information on government and other assistance schemes. â&#x20AC;˘ Provide referrals to appropriate professionals. â&#x20AC;˘ Maintain client records and electronic data and provide reports as required. Qualifications and Skills â&#x20AC;˘ Diploma in Community Services (Financial Counselling) preferred. â&#x20AC;˘ Current unrestricted driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s licence essential. Employment Conditions â&#x20AC;˘ The position will be based at Leongatha. â&#x20AC;˘ Part time - 0.8 FTE. â&#x20AC;˘ Salary package $68,000 plus (pro-rata), depending on qualifications and experience. Further details can be obtained from the Executive Officer, Peter Jennings, 0448 981 303. Selection criteria available from: Megan Colahan - phone 5662 2566. Written applications must address the selection criteria, and be mailed to: The Executive Officer, RFCSV-G, PO Box 335, Maffra, 3860. Applications close Friday, December 4, 2009 Supported by the Australian Government and the Victorian Government

South Gippsland Shire Council Private Bag 4, Leongatha Vic 3953 e-mail - council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Phone (03) 56629200

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?djWa[ WdZ 7ii[iic[dj E\Ă&#x2026;Y[h Part time/Full time/Casual positions until 30 June 2010 A number of exciting opportunities exist within Council in the Intake and Assessment Team, in either a part time, full time or casual capacity. These positions will play an instrumental role in the implementation of the Active Service Model and Living at Home assessment across the South Gippsland Shire. Your responsibilities will include: sÂŹÂŹ!SSESSINGÂŹANDÂŹREVIEWINGÂŹSERVICESÂŹFORÂŹOLDERÂŹPERSONS ÂŹPEOPLEÂŹWITHÂŹDISABILITIESÂŹANDÂŹ their carers, ensuring services are co-ordinated, planned and equitable sÂŹÂŹ0ROVIDINGÂŹREFERRALÂŹANDÂŹLINKAGESÂŹTOÂŹAPPROPRIATEÂŹSERVICESÂŹFORÂŹCLIENTSÂŹWITHÂŹCOMPLEXÂŹ and changing needs

â&#x20AC;˘ Do you thrive on a challenge and want to make a difference for others? â&#x20AC;˘ Are you creative and innovative in seeking solutions? â&#x20AC;˘ Do you believe in training and its benefits? If soâ&#x20AC;Śthen we would love you to be working with us in a role which will entail client relationship building and a focus on negotiating the right training solutions to meet your clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs. As part of a dynamic and focussed business development team across GippsTAFE, you will have many opportunities to explore and develop your individual strengths whilst enjoying a supportive and motivational team environment. This full time, ongoing position is based at Leongatha where you will enjoy working at GippsTAFEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new state of the art facility which is due for completion in 2010. A six month probationary period applies to this position. A career at GippsTAFE can offer you:

sÂŹ,IAISINGÂŹANDÂŹNETWORKINGÂŹWITHÂŹAGENCIES ÂŹAND sÂŹ#ONTRIBUTINGÂŹTOÂŹPOLICIESÂŹANDÂŹPROCEDURES A tertiary qualiďŹ cation in Health, Nursing, Social Welfare or similar is essential and demonstrated experience in a related ďŹ eld will be an advantage. Applicants must satisfy a police check and hold a current drivers licence. This is a great opportunity to display your talents in a work environment that offers great employment beneďŹ t, professional development and job satisfaction.

â&#x153;&#x201C; â&#x153;&#x201C; â&#x153;&#x201C; â&#x153;&#x201C; â&#x153;&#x201C;

Competitive salary and entitlements Professional development opportunities Options for flexible work arrangements Salary sacrifice options Employment with an organisation that has been in Gippsland since 1928

Applications addressing the selection criteria are to be submitted by 5pm Friday 27th November 2009 addressed to: Human Resources, South Gippsland Shire Council, Private Bag 4, Leongatha 3953 or emailed to council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au

â&#x20AC;˘ Further job details and a Position Description outlining the positions duties and responsibilities is available from our website www.gippstafe.vic.edu.au â&#x20AC;˘ Applicants must apply online via our website (Job Reference No. 4709) â&#x20AC;˘ No late or hard copy applications will be accepted â&#x20AC;˘ For further enquiries or assistance, please contact Human Resources on 5120 4570

Further information and a position description is available from Human Resources on (03) 5662 9200, or visit www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au South Gippsland Shire Council

Closing date for the above position is no later than 9.00am on Monday 7th December, 2009.

We also welcome direct discussion with Sara Cox regarding these opportunities.

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Private Bag 4, Leongatha Vic 3953 e-mail - council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Phone (03) 56629200

ZO921676

Social Planner â&#x20AC;˘ $60,000 to $65,000 plus super â&#x20AC;˘ Permanent full time with a community focus In this role you will help enhance the health and wellbeing of the Bass Coast Community. You will be involved in developing, monitoring and evaluating key strategic plans and policies and developing partnerships with key stakeholders. In addition to relevant tertiary quali cations, you will have experience in research, social planning and policy development. You will be skilled in identifying key social issues, formulating policy to re ect community needs and possess excellent written and verbal communication skills. For a position speci cation go to www.basscoast.vic.gov.au or contact Human Resources on 1300 BCOAST (226 278). Written applications should address the key selection criteria and be emailed to jobapps@basscoast.vic. gov.au or posted to Cheryl Sanders at the address below by 5.00pm on Friday 4 December 2009. Bass Coast Shire Council, 76 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi VIC 3995 | DX 34903 Wonthaggi | PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995 | 1300 BCOAST (226 278) for standard call cost | basscoast@basscoast.vic.gov.au | www.basscoast. vic.gov.au

WASTE and YIELD OFFICER Murray Goulburn is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest dairy co-operative, processing more than 35% of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk production into high quality, value-added products such as cheese, long-life milk and specialty milk/protein powders for the Australian and international markets. We currently have the above full time position available at the Leongatha site. Responsibilities include but not limited to the following: â&#x2014;? Maintain and report on Site loss information systems; â&#x2014;? Waste and Yield system mapping and auditing; â&#x2014;? Assisting Production Departments in reducing their waste; â&#x2014;? Chairing Site waste and yield based meetings; and â&#x2014;? Being the Site Contact for Corporate waste and yield reporting and activities. Pre-requisites (previous skills and/or experience): â&#x2014;? Experience in a food production environment is highly desirable â&#x2014;? Ability to enter accurately, analyse and interpret data is a requirement â&#x2014;? Ability to cooperate with others and communicate across all levels of the business â&#x2014;? Ability to drive for continual improvement and loss minimisation â&#x2014;? Ability to work independently and retain focus on the required outcomes â&#x2014;? Proficient in the use of Microsoft applications. Salary and other benefits will be negotiated with the successful candidate. Applications close COB 4th December 2009. Please forward a resume along with a covering letter which addresses the previous skills and experience required to: Mr Louie Gonzy Branch Manager - Traralgon SKILLED Group Ltd PO Box 1535 Traralgon 3844 PH: (03) 5176 1252 www.skilled.com.au Email: louieg@skilled.com.au

2012060

meetings WOORAYL GOLF CLUB

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 49

situations vacant

for sale

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

for sale

CHRISTMAS cards, books, gifts, CDs. Available New Beginnings Christian Books, opp. IGA carpark Leongatha. 5662-0999. DEB DRESS, size 8, $320 ONO. 5668-6248. FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408-980711, A/H 5662-5175 HAY MOWER - Lily 8ft, little use, good condition, $5,500 inc. GST. Ph: 5662-4021. HAY - 200 rolls of green pasture hay in Loch area, $70 per roll. Ph: 0438577999.

for sale

NEW HOLLAND 55 trailing hay rake $1,500 + GST, New Holland 56 trailing hay rake $1,600 + GST, Claas Disco 3000 mower roller conditioner (excellent condition) $20,000 + GST. Ph: 5189-1262. OLD PORT Poultry Farm. Delivering 20 w.o. laying hens to your area Saturday, December 5, $17 each. Ph: 0438-832535 (b/h) or 51832515 (a/h).

for sale

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each. Free delivery for pack lots. Phone Joe 0417-530662. TIMBER - kiln dried blackwood, clear pine, silver wattle. Most sizes for furniture and craft. Also builder’s graded structural pine. Phone 5681-2261.

for rent

NEAT furnished 1 bdrm unit, $115 pw. 3 bdrm home with reversecycle unit, short walk to schools, $240 pw. 2 bdrm with study, refurbished kitchen, and new carpet throughout, $220 pw. Contact Stockdale & Leggo, Leongatha on 5662-5800.

TOTAL GYM, complete exercises and books, as new $275. Ph: 5663-7788.

free

FREE

for sale

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

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

CHAINSAWS AND STATIONARY ENGINES ETC. Repairs and services

Phone JOHN GOULD 5664 0012

VACUUM CLEANER

used machinery HAY MOWER, Lely 240-L, 6 disc. Excellent condition $7,000 ONO. Ph: 0427151258.

Repairs DUST BAGS

Sales

FREE

QUOTES

NEW HOLLAND 78 square baler. One owner, always shedded, $3,500 cash. Wanted - Honda 4 trax 4x2 motorcycle. Ph: 0428594026.

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

5672 3127

situations vacant

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

A.W. SMITH & SONS P/L Full Time Sales Person - Hardware

HONDAS - 2002 XR 200, $3,000; 2004 CRF 140, $3,200. Ph: 0418-583464.

This full-time position requires an enthusiastic person to be involved in the daily running of our hardware business. the successful candidate will demonstrate sound customer service skills, and a willingness to learn. Please forward written application and resumé to: The Manager, 5-9 Roughead Street, Leongatha 3953 Applications close November 27, 2009 Successful applicants only will be notiﬁed

POSITIONS VACANT

SITUATION VACANT

Registered Nurses Div 1 Grade 2 Full Time / Part Time / Casual Midwives / Perioptive / General / Residential Care

The Country Gardener Wonthaggi

Gippsland Southern Health Service seeks applications from Division 1 Registered Nurses for the above positions within the organisation. Successful applicants will need to provide all facets of care whilst working as part of the health care team. Applicants should have established sound nursing practices and also possess the following skills, qualifications, experience: • Demonstrated ability to work with and supervise others. • Ability to oversee, implement, and direct required tasks in allocated time frames. • Ability to contribute to quality initiatives as directed by the NUM. • Current registration with the Nurses Board of Victoria and evidence of ongoing professional development. • Effective interpersonal skills, proficient written and communication skills, basic computer literacy. All applicants should possess the following qualifications/experience: • Current registration with Nurses Board Victoria. • Evidence of recent professional development. • Effective interpersonal skills. • Basic computer literacy. • Proficient written and communication skills. GSHS offers a comprehensive orientation program on commencement of employment. All nursing staff have access to excellent staff mentoring, education and support programs. Salary Packaging is available to all permanent staff. All applicants will be required to supply a current satisfactory police check. If you are interested in joining a supportive and progressive team, please contact the Executive Assistant, Dianna Mollica on 5667 5504 to obtain an application kit or visit our website at www.gshs.com.au. Applications close by Friday, December 11, 2009 and can be addressed to: Mr Neil Langstaff Director of Nursing Gippsland Southern Health Service Private Bag 13 LEONGATHA 3953

NURSERY ASSISTANT

Permanent part time position available from January 2010. 3-4 days, weekend work included (Saturday and Sunday). Experience in retail required and plant knowledge preferred.

YAMAHA Kodiak 450cc auto hi-low range switchable 4WD DIF locks, low kms, ex. cond. $3,800. Ph: 0429-625337.

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

situations vacant

Apply by Tuesday, November 24, 2009. Submit resumés to the following address: The Country Gardener Wonthaggi 19 Inverloch Road, Wonthaggi 3995

Indigenous Facilitator Part time 0.6 FTE 12 month position Traralgon or Leongatha CURRENT VACANCIES

• ENGINEERING / HYDRAULICS APPRENTICESHIPS • ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIPS • FLOOR AND WALL TILING APPRENTICESHIPS • AGRICULTURAL APPRENTICESHIPS • BRICKLAYING APPRENTICESHIPS

Looking for work as a trades apprentice? NMTC can provide accredited pre training and hook you up with our apprentice employers Get the training that will get you on site!! November/December pre training • We’ll help you find the job you want even if we • Construction Induction don’t have it now (White Card) • Working at Heights • We’ll give you the training • Conﬁned Space entry that will get you on site • Working with permits • We’ll support you after • First Aid you’re working • OH&S If you’re serious about getting into the workforce, NMTC can help!!

This role will be responsible for facilitating activities which contribute to the organisation’s ongoing commitment to engage with Traditional Owners and Indigenous organisations for implementing WGCMA’s Indigenous Partnership Policy. This position will also contribute to the successful coordination of ongoing Cultural Heritage Training for WGCMA staff and to the organisation’s Community Engagement Framework. The remuneration range is $49,850 - $63,644 and includes 9% superannuation, use of a mobile phone and laptop. • This position will be for an initial 12 months and will be ongoing subject to funding. A Position Description can be obtained via our website or by emailing kellyr@wgcma.vic.gov.au For further information contact Mikaela Power, Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, mikaelap@wgcma.vic.gov.au Applications addressing Key Selection Criteria should be marked; ‘Indigenous Facilitator’ c/ HR/Payroll Officer and must be received by 4pm on Friday 27th November. Email applications may be sent to kellyr@wgcma.vic.gov.au Geoff Hocking Chief Executive Officer

No Fees - No Charges Call for an interview today and kick start your career 1300 402 220 EMAIL enquiries@nmtc.com.au South Gippsland

NMTC GROUP PTY LTD South East Melbourne

Latrobe Valley

Correspondence PO Box 1374, Traralgon VIC 3844 Telephone 1300 094 262 Facsimile (03) 5175 7899 Email westgippy@wgcma.vic.gov.au Web www.wgcma.vic.gov.au

ZO921564

situations vacant

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Korumburra bowls used vehicles

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

Bass Coast Metal Recyclers 5672 2946 0417 556 593 ASTRA Hatch 2005, 38,600km, 1 lady owner, full service history, TIB124 $14,250. Ph: 0427-563202. FORD Courier XLT ute, 4x4, Spacecab, EBA506, $1,950 ONO. 5668-6354. HOLDEN Astra TR GL 1997, manual white hatchback, 55,600km, immaculate, ONT591, RWC, registered Sept 2010, $6,200. Stony Creek. 0407-376137. HYUNDAI Excel, 2000, manual, 2nd owner, with books, 170,000km, a/c, p/s, CD player, new tyres, RWC. Excellent on fuel. PZS623, $3,500. Ph: 0427513618. MAZDA E2000 van, 2002, white, 3 seats, 5 speed, a/c, cargo barrier, shelving, roof rack, RWC, XBO156, $8,000. 0428-832444. MITSUBISHI Pajero, 1998, 7 seats, grey 2-tone paint, bullbar, side steps, tinted windows, auto, a/c, 169,500km, RWC, OUO-874, $13,000. 0428832444. PEUGEOT 306, 1994, funky black convertible, RWC, XJM351. Very comfy, leather upholstery, Ipod, air, retro trim. $6,500 ONO. Ph: 0408-640155.

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

work wanted

MOBILE MECHANIC Car servicing, brakes and repairs Very good prices Fully qualiﬁed mechanic 10 years Call Steve 0439 338 643 WORK WANTED Experienced farmhand looking for any Full / Part-time work in South Gippsland area. Ph: 0437681563.

used vehicles TOYOTA Landcruiser, 1994. Dual fuel, 7-seater, in ex. cond., low mileage and good service history. Priced to sell, $15,000. FLA540. RWC. Ph: 0408-551410.

garage sales

CLEARING & GARAGE SALE 3 Yeaman Court (off Turner Street) LEONGATHA

Saturday, November 28 8am - 4pm Great selection including tools, bikes, bric-a-brac, TV, toys

GARAGE SALE 2305 Promontory Rd FISH CREEK Saturday, November 28 8am - 2pm

Strictly no early birds Kids bikes, DS games, Leapster and games, TVs, computer, toys galore, household goods, clothes and heaps more 2 HOUSEHOLDS COMBINED

GARAGE SALE LEONGATHA 11 Arcadia Cres (off Carr Avenue)

Saturday, November 28 9am - 1pm Strictly no early birds Furniture, a wide range of household goods including baby equip, kids clothes and toys

GARAGE SALE Saturday,

situations vacant

EXPERIENCED ACCOUNTANT AND/OR CPA We are seeking a qualified CPA or similar experienced accountant with a desire to work in our progressive public accounting practice, preferably with 3 – 7 years experience however all applications will be considered on merit. Duties primarily involve Accounting, GST & Income Tax for our SME business and primary producer client base. The successful applicant will be an ambitious individual with a friendly but confident personality and excellent computer skills who will adapt to a team environment. MYOB and Quickbooks experience is preferred. Excellent advancement opportunities exist for a self motivated person who has the ambition to achieve. Please apply in own handwriting with resume. Confidential and discreet enquiry can be made to Tim Kemp on 0438 623 183. Applications close on December 4, 2009, and should be addressed to: MORRISON JEFFERIS & ASSOCIATES Qualified Accountant / CPA 16 McCartin Street LEONGATHA VIC 3953

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays engagements SCHELLING - BROWNE Dianne and John, together with Gail and Robert, are extremely pleased to announce the engagement of Rebecca and Scott. Our love and best wishes to both of them.

marriage celebrant

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

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

MERLENE STRATTON Leongatha 5662 2574

November 28 At 8am (NOT BEFORE) ’til 2pm 37 Callaway Cres LEONGATHA Household goods, furniture, books, garden tools, bric-a-brac

GIANT CLEARING SALE Saturday, November 28

10am 1450 Bena-Kongwak Rd KONGWAK Tools, machinery, antiques, furniture and household See clearing sale notices LEONGATHA, 34 Koonwarra Rd, Saturday, November 28. Moving house. 8am start, no early birds.

situations vacant

bereavement thanks ADAMS - Geoff. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to our family and friends for all the lovely flowers, cards, cooking, expressions of sympathy, kindness, and for just being there for us after the sudden loss of our beautiful Geoff. He was one of a kind and a very special person to us all. Please accept this as our sincere personal thankyou to each and everyone of you. Kerrie, Tigga and Ellie, and the Adams and Quill families.

message of hope ALL the ends of the earth will remember (God’s saving acts) and turn to the Lord and all the families of the nations will bow down before Him. Psalm 22:27.

in memoriam CAFARELLA - Tommy. November 23, 2001. Time has not taken away the sadness of your loss. We never stop loving and missing you. With love Connie, Diana, Mark, Carlo, Angela and families.

deaths GRANGER-MOTTON Wendy. A courageous and lovely lady. Sympathy to Gary and the Motton and Granger families. Molly and Tom. SING - May. A dear friend and such good memories. Loving sympathy to Bill, Helen, Mary and families. Molly and Tom. SINNBECK Darrell Graham (Joe). 30/7/1930 - 15/11/2009. Passed away suddenly at the Leongatha Hospital on Sunday, November 15, 2009. Loved husband of Hendrika, father of Cherylin, Graeme, Merryn and Jason. Loved Pop and “Poppa-Joe” of Bree and Jason, Kane, Leia, Carly, Maegen, Ben, Kaylie, Dean, Zac, Noah, Lily, Kahlil and Nshan. Dear friend of Diane and Suzie. Forever in our hearts. SINNBECK - Darrell. Farewell our “Poppa Joe”. Fond memories of a great friendship over many, many years. You will be sadly missed. Diane, Ben, Kaylie and Dean.

THE ladies on Tuesday had another very successful day scorewise. Division 2 travelled to Fish Creek with a 27 shot win to the Korumburra ladies. Our best card was Jan McLaren’s team of Bev Button, Beryl Waycott and Joan Blogg which had a convincing win against Nellie Van Dyk’s team. Division 3 were home to Leongatha with Korumburra ladies who had an eight shot win, with Esma O’Flaherty’s team of Mary Wrench, Marj Williams and Joanna Lomagno against Margaret Fisher’s team, our best result. Next week’s pennant has the ladies home and away. Division 2 will play at Loch and Division 3 will be home to Phillip Island. On Wednesday, the ladies held a mixed day for the VLBA charity ‘Heart Children’. President Mary thanks all who generously supported the day. Playing triples, our winners, after two games, were Margaret Goad, Don MacKay and Marj Williams with 15 ends. Shirley Martin’s team of Keith March, Earle Senbrook missed out by one end in receiving the charity spoons. The rafﬂe winners were Rob Snooks, Alan Morphett, Nancy Gilbert with Carolyn Snooks winning the lucky spot. With the men back on the greens on Thursday for pairs, after three games the winners were Bey Seikman and John Halliday with three wins plus 21 shots up, with the drawn card going to Brian Pepperell and Robert Sund. Twilight bowls on Thursday evening was another successful event. Remember to enter these nights. Names in by 5.30pm. Bowls supplied and wear ﬂat soled shoes. Many thanks to the club members who organise these evenings.

Loch and District IN the three pennant matches played in the past week, the ladies achieved a narrow win over Inverloch at Inverloch. Men’s Division 3 had a clear-cut win over Leongatha at Loch, and men’s Division 5 lost to San Remo, also played at Loch. On Wednesday the last semi ﬁnal of the ladies club championship was played in warm conditions, with Kath Moss taking out the game from Val Kennedy. Kath and Jenny will play the ﬁnal this Wednesday, weather permitting. The men were going to play two more rounds of their championship on Sunday, but this has had to be held over until next Sunday due to the wet conditions. Twilight winners this time were Greg Hodge, Andrew Kirkham and Gary Dorling. Thursday social bowls was a non-event due to a heavy week of bowling commitments, however two enterprising ladies in pink tried some practice ends. This week ladies pennant is at home to Wonthaggi, while the men of Division 3 will be at Foster, and Division 5 will be at home to Meeniyan. Good bowling to all.

Dumbalk indoor ON Monday, November 16, 11 bowlers competed in three games of eight ends. The winners were Carol Muller (skipper), Joyce Fuller and Lindsay Richards with three wins. The runners-up were Kay Cook (skipper), Robert Matthies and Mary Cook with one win, one draw, one loss and plus ﬁve shots.

The club congratulates to Rob Snooks, who has been selected in the Group 8 side (from all Gippsland bowlers) to play in Greup sides round robin to be held at Corowa. With many pennant players unavailable on Saturday, there were only eight bankers on the greens. After two games, the winners were Tom Brown and Andrew Seikman with 20 shots up. In men’s pennant, Division 1 went to Mirboo North with a win by 20 shots, with the best card held by Keith Button’s team of Andy Robertson, Peter Cosson and Bev Button, who had a convincing win over Phil Stimson’s team. Division 4 Korumburra Gold played Inverloch with an eight shot win. Our best result was Bruce Peters’ team of Ben Peachey, Keith March and John Elstub who had a six shot win over N. Van Grunsven’s team. The Korumburra Maroon men’s team had another successful day at Phillip Island, with a ﬁve shot win. Our best result was Bruce McLaren’s team of Peter Goad, George Savage and Bill Thomson with an 11 shot win against P. Oates’ team with Ray Saunders team scoring an eight one end. Pennant next week for the men has Division 1 to Phillip Island. In Division 4 the Gold team are home to Port Welshpool and the Maroon team are at Inverloch. With many unavailable for pennant on Saturday, results were very pleasing for the club selectors. The attendance of club members for club voting on uniﬁcation of the RVBA and VLBA to become Bowls Victoria was very pleasing for presidents Bill and Mary. We thank all who attended for showing an interest in the proposal for the future of bowls.

Inverloch bowls DIVISION 1 Blue had a convincing win against Foster on our green in last Saturday’s pennant round. Their three rinks each held commanding leads at the tea break, but the visitors staged a ﬁghtback in the second half, nevertheless Harry Rybalka and John Hedley’s rinks fought hard to hold on to good leads, and at the end of play had wins by 16 and 11 shots respectively, while Cliff Coram’s rink after a good display, lost their game by one shot on the last end. This win lifts them off the bottom of the ladder. Division 1 White’s game at Leongatha proved to be the great battle we all expected, with the home side taking the match by the narrow margin of four shots. Ron Burges’s rink again had another good 12 shot win, but the other two rinks, after good battles, lost their matches. Division 2 made a big trip to Toora, and won comfortably by 11 shots. Division 4 were home to Korumburra Gold. This proved to be a good battle, but we lost by eight shots. John Madden’s ﬁght back to take their game was a good effort after being well down early, while Jack Miller’s rink

had to fight off a great challenge from their opponents to take their game. Division 6 were up against Wonthaggi on our green and their run of defeats continue, after doing so well in the first four games. They lost on both rinks and their losing margin was 16 shots overall. Thursday our monthly triples had 30 teams and the sponsor for the day was Ian Symonds Solicitors of Inverloch, to whom we express osur sincere thanks. After one game of 14 ends and two of 12 ends there were six threegame winners. The winners with 57 points was the team of R. McGannon (ld), J. Fisher (2nd) and R. Hutton (sk). Runners-up were N. West (ld), J. Bird (2nd) and R. Beech with 56 points. The prize for the lucky drawn card went to the team of M. Cargill, D. Stanes and J. Hedley. Twenty-six teams played in last Wednesday evening’s business bowls, and after 10 ends the winner with 19 shots up was the Serious Surf team. Runners-up with 16 shots were the Quality Meats team. It is great to see a number of different teams figuring in the winners’ circle in this popular event.

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8198 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Cop-E. 7, Spot to eat. 8, Crew. 9, Left. 10, Drip. 11, I-Des. 14, Police ball. 16, Gain height. 19, Su-ES. 22, Stun (rev.). 24, Plan. 25, L-ady. 26, Troop-ship. 27, Zero. Down - 1, C-act-I. 2, Piece. 3, Ap-peal. 4, Static. 5, Hold. 6, Vac-I’ll-ate. 12, Departure. 13, Spin (rev.). 15, Bats. 17, Ex-pose. 18, G-rat-I’s. 20, US-age(ncy). 21, Say-so . 23, No-OK. QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8198 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Cold. 7, Gabardine. 8, Aunt. 9, Clad. 10, Meet. 11, Stem. 14, Intimidate. 16, Wickedness. 19, Kind. 22, Alps. 24, Name. 25, Aden. 26, Stalemate. 27, Safe. Down - 1, Class. 2, Lunge. 3, Mallet. 4, Random. 5, Edam. 6, Entertain. 12, Titillate. 13, Milk. 15, Dusk. 17, Dynamo. 18, Enmity. 20, India. 21, Dance. 23, Sole.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 51

’Burra has solid pennant win OVERCAST and muggy conditions were the order of the day for pennant bowls last Saturday. Inverloch Blue continued to consolidate their position in Division 1 with a good win at home over Foster. Korumburra travelled to Mirboo North and recorded a solid win. Leongatha (home) proved too good with a narrow win over Inverloch White, and in the shock of the round, Wonthaggi travelled to Phillip Island and recorded a ﬁne win claiming 14 of the 16 points on offer. This is Phillip Island’s third loss in as many weeks and is the ﬁrst time in many years the club has seen this happen. Even though they have lost ‘three on the trot’ they are

still well in it for a place in the ﬁnals. In Division 2, San Remo got back on track with a solid win at home. Lang Lang travelled to Wonthaggi to record a solid win claiming all 16 points. Meeniyan, playing at Inverloch were far too good for Tarwin Lower, whilst Toora lost ground in the ladder race when it was beaten at home by Inverloch. The only saving grace for Toora was that they won two of the three rinks. The results of all matches were: Div 1: Inverloch Blue 14-77 d Foster 2-51; Mirboo North 4-58 lt Korumburra 12-78: Phillip Island 2-67 lt Wonthaggi 14-75: Leongatha 14-70 d Inverloch White 2-59. Div 2: San Remo 14-79 d Leongatha 2-63: Wonthaggi 0-41 lt Lang Lang 16-

77: Tarwin Lower 2-57 lt Meeniyan 14-79: Toora 4-50 lt Inverloch 12-61. Div 3: Loch 16-101 d Leongatha 0-38: Corinella 4-71 lt Phillip Island White 12-78; Phillip Island Blue 1684 d Wonthaggi 0-55: Foster 2-64 lt Fish Creek 14-79: Div 4:Port Welshpool 16-73 d Mirboo North 0-44: Phillip Island 2-61 lt Korumburra Maroon 1476: Korumburra 14-79 d Inverloch 4-71. Div 5: Meeniyan 16-86 d Wonthaggi 0-54: Fish Creek 14-82 d Tarwin Lower 2-56: Loch 4-64 lt San Remo 1270. Div 6: Meeniyan 12-40 d Phillip Island 2-39: Lang Lang 14-71 d 0-32; Toora 1456 d San Remo 0-26:Inverloch 0-32 lt Wonthaggi 14-48. ‘Kiss of Death’ tips for this coming weekend in Division 1 are: Leongatha (home) to record a comfortable win over

Inverloch ladies bowls LAST Monday was the ﬁrst coffee morning. It was a good roll up as we all had to vote on the amalgamation. Helen Twite was there to try and answer any questions. Afterwards they sat around drinking coffee and having a nice social time without having to rush out to the greens. It is good for all the new bowlers to get to know everyone and ask any questions they have regarding the pros and cons of bowling. It is also a good time for the committee to inform the ladies of any items of news, which may be of interest. Last Tuesday, Division 1 played at San Remo and had a good win, Division 2 played at home against Loch and were just beaten, Division 3 also played at home against Toora and they also had a loss. Girls, remember it’s one week at a time, onwards and upwards. Wednesday was monthly triples, sponsored by Retravision of Leongatha.

Leongatha

TUESDAY evening, November 17 saw round two of the business bowls continue. At this stage a picture is now starting to emerge as to who are likely contenders for the end spoils. The Shed have now gone to the top of the ladder but are closely followed by Knights Knuckle Draggers. Both teams continue to lead the pack, however after round two there are only ﬁve twogame winners. Others include Kevin Gardner Kitchens along with Birch Ross and Barlow, and Edney’s One. Round three will take place on Tuesday evening, November 24. Ladies bowls: Both Division 1 and Division 2 of our ladies teams were unsuccessful last week, with Division 1 going down to Wonthaggi at home, and Division 3 going down to the Burra at Korumburra. Tuesday, November 24 will see Division 1 away to Inverloch, with Division 3 at home to Corinella. Good luck ladies. Wednesday, November 18 saw a ﬁeld of 20 players take to the greens in rather warm to hot conditions. Winners on the day were Murray Blackburn and David Dunkley on two wins 19 shots, and runners-up were Don McIntyre and Alan Rayson on two wins plus 17 shots. Sponsor for the day was Stewart’s Tyre Service, and the club greatly appreciates their support. Last Saturday, November 14 saw the commencement of bankers bowls on Saturday afternoons. This saw a mixture

The weather was kind and a great day was had. There were 30 bowlers playing three games of 10 ends. The end result was the winning team of Shirley Cook, Lois Luby and Margaret Grifﬁn. Runners up were Joy Hargreaves, Joy Brown and Cynthia Hensley. Went to Phillip Island’s Invitation day on Friday and there were 18 Inverloch ladies there, meaning the club was well represented, but no one brought home the prizes. Next Wednesday, November 25 at 10am, will be the third round of the club championship. This will be followed by our social bowls in the afternoon, hope to see you all there. Don’t forget Christmas dinner on Friday, December 4 starting at 6.30pm. It is $22 per head with music, dancing, rafﬂes and Santa. Hope you have put your name down on the list in the clubrooms.

of new and existing bowlers take part in a mixed social bowls. This will continue each Saturday afternoon during the pennant season, dress is mufti, so if you are not involved in pennant, both ladies and mens, then come along and enjoy a great afternoon of bankers bowls. This invitation is also open to any junior bowlers who would like to become involved. Saturday, November 21 saw Division 1 at home to Inverloch White, and in a very tight struggle the home side come out the winners by just four shots. Division 2 journeyed to San Remo with mixed results, however on the day San Remo came out overall winners by six shots. Division 3 journeyed to Loch and again all three teams were not in the winners’ circle, with Loch running out overall winners by 63 shots. However, it was pleasing to see the Leongatha club try out a few new bowlers as well as the grooming of some new skippers, which can only go well for the future. Round eight of pennant sees Leongatha Division 1 at home to Inverloch Blue, while Division 2 journey to Wonthaggi, and Division 3 to Corinella. Reminders: Leongatha club’s next round of the club championships, singles / mens / ladies is to take place on Sunday, December 13, not the sixth as previously indicated. Christmas dinner night is Friday, December 11, 6.30pm start. Cost is $24 per person. Please ensure you place your names on the list.

SGDLBA pennant Round 6 - Nov 17 DIVISION 1 Foster 79 (19 shots) d Meeniyan 60 (R. Richardson 26 d M. Pearson 19, D. Mortlock 31 d A. Van Wamel 17, M. Climas 22 lt B. Dyke 24). Inverloch 91 (31 shots) d San Remo 60 (C. Hughes 34 d K. Hale 17, S. Cook 34 d S. Carvosso 23, A. Tschiderer 23 d C. Thorn 20). Wonthaggi 85 (26 shots) d Leongatha 59 (L. Milkins 35 d McCormack 17, K. Simpson 24 d J. Todd 23, I. Donohue 26 d D. Dean 19). Phillip Island 120 (69 shots) d Lang Lang 51 (P. Davis 49 d D. Motton 16, P. Francis 39 d J. Prowd 17, R. James 32 d R. Geyer 18). DIVISION 2 Loch 70 (3 shots) d Inverloch 67 (V. Kennedy 27 d M. Paynting 17, G. Garry 20 lt M. Flett 23, J. Miller 23 lt D. McIntosh 27). Wonthaggi 78 (4 shots) d

Inverloch Blue, Mirboo North (home) will be too strong for Foster. Phillip Island (home) after three losses on the trot will not give Korumburra a ‘look in’ and win easily, whilst Inverloch White in a close one over arch rivals Wonthaggi.

Ladders Division 1 Leongatha ...................-166 106 Inverloch White ................78 80 Phillip Island.....................98 67 Korumburra ......................-4 57 Wonthaggi .........................-16 47 Mirboo North ....................-65 35 Inverloch Blue.................-109 33 Foster...............................-148 23

Division 2 Leongatha ........................-89 San Remo ..........................28 Lang Lang .........................33 Inverloch .............................2 Toora ...................................-4 Wonthaggi ...........................-7 Meeniyan............................ -1 Tawin Lower ......................38

71 70 67 62 54 50 48 26

Division 3

Phillip Island Blue ........224 105 Foster.................................17 72 Fish Creek .........................47 63 Phillip Island White .........27 62 Wonthaggi .........................50 49 Corinella............................-53 49 Loch ...................................15 40 Leongatha...........................181 6

Division 4 Inverloch ...........................59 Korumburra Gold............82 Korumburra Maroon .......-6 Mirboo North ..................-45 Port Welshpool ..................-61 Phillip Island .....................-29

84 75 62 61 50 42

Division 5 San Remo ..........................97 Meeniyan...........................94 Tarwin Lower ...................78 Fish Creek ........................-61 Loch ..................................-46 Wonthaggi ........................175

76 90 68 59 48 22

Division 6 Lang Lang .........................82 Phillip Island.....................79 Wonthaggi .........................22 Foster................................-17 Inverloch .............................8 Toora ............................... 111 Meeniyan..........................-86 San Remo .....................-1077

Bowling men: Inverloch club’s Rob Howard, Harry Rybalka and Les Goss at Inverloch on Saturday afternoon.

66 60 57 57 56 54 36 66

Fish Creek bowls OUR ladies lowered their colours to the Korumburra team, and this week travel to Port Welshpool. Both men’s teams had a win last week. Division 3 had a win at Foster by 20 shots, while Division 5 had a 23 shot win over Tarwin Lower at Fish Creek. Next Saturday Division 3 play Wonthaggi at home and the team is L. McKenzie, F. Carter, C. McGannon, D. Christie, R. McKenzie, R. Staley, R. Coyens, D. Livingstone, I. McLean, A. Kerr, A. Atwell, R. Everitt. Division 5 travel to Wonthaggi for their game and be ready to leave clubrooms no later than 11.15am. F. Huy-

brets, D. Stefani, R. Cooper, J. Lindeman, K. Flanders, W. Ferbrache, T. Taylor, R. Poletti, J. Stefani, R. Grylls, N. Brickland, J. Lavarda. Emergencies L. Synan and F. McLaughlin. On Thursday evening we were entertained by the Lyric show, and once again their usual excellent presentation was enjoyed by the 80 who attended. On Sunday over 100 friends came along to see the memorial wall with names of past players very much seen and the wall was unveiled by Margaret Karge, wife of Egon, who helped with the financial part to have this memorial built.

Tarwin 74 (E. Thompson 29 d D. Barnes 26, M. McBain 23 d G. Bright 22, D. Yarley 26 drew H. Twite 26). Phillip Island 100 (45 shots) d Port Welshpool 55 (R. Viney 31 d M. McDonald 20, E. De Vries 31 d A. Collins 18, J. Stubbs 38 d L. McLaine 17). Korumburra 86 (25 shots) d Fish Creek 61 (D. Williams 28 d V. Synan 16, J. McLaren 39 d N. Van Dyk 18, M. Goad 19 lt P. Hazeltine 27). DIVISION 3 Foster 44 (8 shots) d Meeniyan 36 (L. Wheeler 23 d G. Densley 19, M. Freeman 21 d D. Lindhart 17). Korumburra 46 (8 shots) d Leongatha 38 (E. O’Flaherty 28 d M. Fisher 10, N. Gilbert 18 lt M. Rayson 28). Wonthaggi 44 (7 shots) d Phillip Island 37 (G. Mitford 27 d J. Dyer 11, V. Grifﬁths 17 lt J. Farmer 26). Toora 47 (12 shots) d Inverloch 35 (J. Bland 28 d J.

Arnold 12, B. Curram 19 lt N. Martin 23). Corinella - bye (2 pts). Ladders Division 1 Phillip Island...........+130 10 Inverloch ...................+94 10 Foster.........................+64 9 Wonthaggi .................+93 7 Lang Lang ...................-90 5 San Remo ....................-77 3 Meeniyan.....................-98 3 Leongatha..................-116 1 Division 2 Korumburra .......... +115 10 Port Welshpool ........+85 10 Phillip Island............+71 7 Loch ..........................+43 7 Wonthaggi ..................-63 5 Inverloch ....................-46 4 Fish Creek ................-100 3 Tarwin Lower ...........-105 2 Division 3 Phillip Island............+78 8 Corinella...................+36 8 Korumburra ............+35 8 Toora ........................+13 7 Wonthaggi ..................-23 7 Foster..........................-29 7 Meeniyan...................+16 4 Inverloch ....................-66 4 Leongatha...................-60 2

Meeniyan MONDAY, November 16 was our annual Invitation Day sponsored by Leongatha RSL and Windmill Ag. Winners were Mirboo North Phil Stimson (sk), with Barry Fraser, Paul Pugh and Ray Czempinski. From eight two-game winners the runners-up were Findlay Luke, John Tuckﬁeld and Colin Cochrane (Loch), with Kevin Watson (Korumburra). Ladies pennant on Tuesday - Division 1 at home to Foster had one winning rink, but went down overall 60 to 79. Away to Foster, Division 3 had a very close game, with both rinks going down with the score 36 to 44. Next week ones are away to Lang Lang and threes are home to Korumburra. Sixteen people played social bowls on Wednesday, with Grace Kuhne and Kevin Robinson scoring the points.

Saturday pennant resulted in wins for all three divisions. Away to Tarwin Lower at Inverloch Division 2 scored their third win (sorry about the mistake last week), with two rinks getting the points and a 22 shot advantage. At home, Division 5 played Wonthaggi, with all rinks winning, the scoreline 86 to 54. Division 6 were matched against top team Phillip Island. In a cliff-hanger they got home 40 shots to 39, with one rink successful. Next week twos are away to Inverloch in the reverse round, ﬁves are away to Loch and sixes are home to Wonthaggi, also in the reverse round. Wednesday, November 25 is our uniﬁcation meeting where each section will vote. We would like as many people as possible to attend. Time 2.30pm (after social bowls). To complete a busy week, the Lyric Theatre show is on Thursday night, and Friday, November 27 is the ladies annual tournament.

Moved game: Paul Grifﬁths from Tarwin Lower club was playing his home game at Inverloch against Meeniyan due to their ground being under reconstruction.

Left: On the green: Marco Giaccherini and Sam Bruzzese were playing for Foster against Inverloch at Inverloch on the weekend.

Buffalo indoor bowls WEDNESDAY, November 18, a great turnout, 15 players for the night, giving us four teams. Welcome back to Ron Gloster, good to see you. A countback for fourth and third: 4th (LLW) 10 ends, Karl Kappes, Graeme Tobias, Mary Tumino and Joe Occhipinti; 3rd (DLW) 11 ends, Ian Benson, Glenys Pilkington, Carolyn Benson and Jim Atkins. And again a countback for second and ﬁrst: 2nd (WWL) 12 ends, Andrew Hanks, Charlie Tumino, Peter Heldens and Bill Wolswinkle; 1st (LWW) 13 ends, Sebastian Terranova, Joyce Occhipinti and Ron Gloster. Great bowling to see it so close. Best 1st game Andrew 11-8, best 2nd Sebastian 14-5, best 3rd Karl 8-5. See you all against next week. Everyone is welcome 7.30pm. Don’t forget to put on your calendar our last night of bowling on December 16. We will be playing two games of 10 ends and having a chat and supper, everyone is most welcome. We will be back after a short break on January 13, 2010.

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Thomas is ladies champion SHIRLEY Thomas won the Woorayl ladies championship on Wednesday. The ﬁnal round of the championships was played on November 18, the event was stroke, Dot Forrester 54 hole net senior lady trophy. Sponsors were the Robjant family and the AWCR was 72. Day event winners were: A Grade K. McKenzie 16/75, B Grade B. James 27/70, C Grade E. McBride 29/70, D Grade M. Martin 42/62. Nine holes out - P. Lancaster. Nearest the pin: 8th J. Smith, 17th J. Fennell hole-in-one, 2nd shot on the 11th M. Rayson. Down the line balls: F. Maynard, M. Higgins, T. Scoble, A. Poole, M.

Harris. Handicap break M. Martin 42 to 34, E. McBride 29/28, B. James 27/26. Club champion S. Thomas 268, B Grade A. Grist 281, C Grade E. McBride 303, D Grade Jo Fennell 367. Senior lady champion E. McBride 29/216, 54 hole Dot Forrester trophy, Joan Smith 35/213. Congratulations to all winners, our holein-one girl, and handicap breakers. Next week, November 25, is Alstroemia Day American foursomes sponsored by H. Sullivan, 9am assembly. Don’t forget Woorayl annual general meeting November 29, following fourball mixed medley and afternoon tea.

Woorayl club ladies championships: Shirley Thomas (club champion), Anne Grist (B Grade), Elsie McBride (C Grade and senior champion), Jo Fennell (D Grade) and Joan Smith (Dot Forrester 54 hole).

Bob’s best club person BOB Constantine was voted by his peers as best club person 2009 for the Meeniyan Golf Club at the annual general meeting held on November 19.

Well done: Bob Constantine is presented with the Meeniyan Golf Club’s best club person award by Sue Hoskin.

Leongatha A PERFECT day for golf on Saturday encouraged some excellent scores. Denis McDonald recaptured some form from the past and nailed A Grade with +5. Nick Savino had a fine round and he took B Grade, also on +5. C Grade was won by Ian Watson with a creditable +4. Paul Jackson and Russell Williams were nearest the pin winners. Ball winners: G. Hartland, P. Blackney +4; H. Sedelies +3, J. White, M. Stubbs +2; G. McDonald, C. Leaver, K. Scott +1; G. Morrison, R. Williams sq. Tuesday Ken Gardner surprised everyone, including himself when he finished on a massive 47 points. Well done Ken, but there will be a penalty to pay on your handicap. With Ken winning B Grade, Jon Smith took outAGrade with a useful 41 points, including nearest the pin on the 16th in his round. The other nearest the pin went to a visitor, A. Bull, from Keysborough. Ball winners: I. Danks 41, P. Barry 40, D. Clemann, M. Burns, M. Foote 38; R. Nelson, J. King 37; J. Arnott, G. Sharrock, J. Cummins, G. Hines, A. Bull 36. There was no members’ comp on Thursday as 101 SG veterans competed for their championship. Thursday’s stableford will be sponsored by Mark Edwards and the event will celebrate 20 years since Mark organised our first Thursday competition. Thank you Mark for this great contribution. Considine and Johnston day on Friday, so the club continues to be very busy.

Making the most of it: Peter Rayson (Leongatha Golf Club), Grant Johnson (Lang Lang Golf Club) and Mark Carruthers (Woorayl Golf Club) were having a chat after the South Gippsland Singles Championships were cancelled on Sunday. They will be rescheduled.

Although Bob doesn’t play a lot of golf he is a great committee member who played a large part in the club getting the federal funds to build their wonderful wetland area. Bob has been the supervisor and organiser in the construction and replanting of the wetland area. His diligence and professional approach to all the ﬁne details of the project are now on show to everyone. The grand opening of the wetland area is on Friday, November 27 at 4pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. Congratulations Bob on being the best club person 2009.

Ladies

WEDNESDAY, November 18 was the star medal playoff between ﬁve ladies. Dot Christie was the eventual winner with 71 net. Section one winner on the day was Mary Trease with 70 net and a reduction in her handicap, the section two winner was Veronica Park who had a wonderful 64 net and Veronica reduced her handicap from 35 to 32. Well played. The best nine went to Dot Christie with 34 net and Heather Poletti took out the putting with 27. Down the line balls to Irene Holm 71, Heather Poletti 74, Eileen Dorling 75, Jenny Cope won the 45s with 22 points. Don’t forget the grand opening of our new wetland area “Toonallook” on Friday, November 27 at 4pm. Everyone is invited. After the opening you can play nine holes of twilight golf and then enjoy a fantastic counter tea between 6pm and 8pm.

Foster Club championships Club champion: Pat McKay 320. Senior champion: Pat McKay 320. B Grade champion: Steve Reid 351. C Grade champion: Greg Paine 355. P. J. Wilson trophy: Jim Parry (11) 280 net. Ladies club championships Club champion: Barbara Warren 251. Senior champion: Gale Tyers 259. B Grade champion: Jenny Mountford 272. C Grade champion: Pam Witheridge 305. Aggregate handicap: June Eddy (18) 212 net. Sunday, November 22 - fourth round championships. Noel Black, Alan Spooner and Ken Crompton trophy. A Grade: Greg Dean (12) 68 net. B Grade: Fred Tyers (13) 71 net. C Grade: Henk de Graaf (19) 74 net. Down the line balls: Jim Parry (11) 70 net, Greg Cox (12) 70 net, Bruce Knee (16) 72 net, Greg Paine (18) 73 net, Neville Thompson (9) 73 net. Nearest the pin: fourth Jim Parry, sixth Neville Thompson, 13th David Knee, 15th Jim Parry, 17th Greg Dean. Putting: Lloyd McKenzie 25 putts. Money hole: Norm Cooper. Saturday, November 21 – third round championships. Neville and Carmen Thompson trophy. A Grade: Jim Parry (11) 70 net on countback. B Grade: Russell Forte (17) 68 net. C Grade: Phil Nightingall (19) 71 net. Down the line balls: Greg Paine (18) 69 net, Noel Black (7) 70 net, David Knee (21) 70 net, Fred Tyers (13) 72 net, Robert Fulton (17) 72 net, Bernd Amesreiter (24) 72 net, Norm Cooper (12) 72 net. Nearest the pin: fourth Ray Prain, sixth Murray Welsh, 13th Pat McKay, 15th Geoff Eddy, 17th Fred Tyers. Putting: Noel Black 27 putts on countback. Money hole $17: Lloyd McKenzie. Ladies Saturday, November 21 - winner: Judy Fah -3, Down the line balls: Ineke de Graaf -4 on

countback. Nearest the pin: 17th Gale Tyers. Friday, November 20 – twilight stableford. Winner: Steve Reid (13) 21 points on countback. Down the line balls: Lloyd McKenzie (10) 20 points, John Mathers (15) 20 points. Lady winner: Rae Knee (20) 19 points. Down the line balls: Pam Mathers (38) 17 points. Nearest the pin: 15th Phil Nightingall, 17th Bernd Amesreiter. Thursday, November 19 – par winner: J. Lowell (16) +3. Down the line balls: George Draeger (26) +2, David Hutchinson (13) +1 on countback. Nearest the pin: sixth John Ellis. Wednesday, November 18 third round championships. Beth Curram trophies. A Grade: June Eddy (18) 69 net. B Grade: Frances McGlead (35) 68 net. Scratch: Barbara Warren 85. Putting: Jenny Mountford 28 putts on countback. Down the line balls: Rae Knee (20) 70 net, Heather Ray (21) 70 net, Sheron Cripps (24) 70 net, Jan Best (20) 70 net. Nearest the pin: fourth second shot: Alayne McKenzie, sixth Jenny Mountford, 13th, second shot Maxine Symmons, 15th, second shot Gale Tyers, 17th Ineke de Graaf. Tuesday, November 17 – stableford winner: Larry Giddy (20) 41 points. Down the line balls: John Mathers (16) 40 points, Denham Grierson (23) 37 points on countback, Peter Dight (7) 37 points. Nearest the pin: sixth Pat McKay.

Coming events Tuesday, November 24 – stableford, Wednesday, November 25 – par, Merle Barham trophy. Thursday, November 26 – stableford. Saturday, November 28 – four ball medley, draw for partners 11am, Foster Foodworks Thompson trophy, presentation night. Ladies Saturday, November 28 – stableford.

Leongatha ladies th

Hole in one: Jo Fennell achieved a hole in one on the 17 hole, which rarely sees holes in one, at Woorayl Golf Course on Wednesday.

Woorayl golf SATURDAY’S stableford event was sponsored by Taranto Glass, and a total of 39 players braved the weather. A Grade winner was B. Robjant, 42 points; B Grade C. James 43; C Grade E. Jackson 42 on a countback from J. Hassett. Ladies winner was T. Scoble 35. Nearest the pins: 8th N. Lovie, 17th B. Thomas. Balls down the line: J. Hassett 42, J. Lovie 41, J. Hickey 41, G. Calder 40, D. Clemann 38, B. Fiek 38. Ladies’ ball down the line went to E. McBride on a countback from M. Harris.

Mirboo North golf THERE were 20 starters for the stableford event on Thursday, November 19. The CCR was 70. A Grade winner was Ron Anderson (15) 40. Down the line: Gordon Graeme (15) 39, Phil Garlick (23) 38, Andy Van Zuylen (17) 36. Birdie 16th Paul Woodall.

AFTER all the excitement of the centenary tournament we had the play-off for the star medalist on Wednesday, November 18. Thanks must go to our sponsor, Barbara Dyke. The weather was ﬁne, the greens quite fast and some excellent scores were recorded. Best of the day were from Isobel Sutherland and Ann Gibson. They both came in with 70 net and a broken handicap. Isobels 115-45-70 gave her the C Grade trophy on a countback. But the star medalist for 2009 was Maxine Eabry. She won A Grade too, with 91-19-72. Loris Clark was B Grade winner with 100-28-72. Balls down the line went to Ann Gibson 70, Barb Dyke and Glenys Day both 71, Joc Howson, Marea Maher and Dot Stubbs 73, Sharyn Rayson and Elaine Dempsey 74, Di Williams, Maria Bell, Jan Birrell and Shirley Welsford, 75. On Saturday, November 21 Anna de Bondt starred with ﬁve up in the par event. Naturally she is now playing off a new handicap.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 53

Jumping event at Korumburra RAIN kept riders away from the 2009 showjumping classic at Korumburra on Sunday. But the Saturday of the two-day event was better, with good jumpers competing in a range of categories. About 150 riders competed and there were more than 600 rounds of horse jumping. Korumburra Agricultural and Pastoral Society president Sandy Carfrae said many participants were already planning to return next year. Previously showjumping had been held at the Korumburra show in February, but it was moved to November to give the

ground more time to recover for football. Other events will continue at the show. Olympic rider Laurie Lever competed in the maiden D Grade showjumping event on Saturday. Local winners included Wes Joyce (Jumbunna), Tiffany Joyce (Jumbunna), Vivian Carfrae (Kardella), Yvonne Morrison (Leongaha) and Steph Carfrae (Kardella). Korumburra was given an economic boost, with competitors eating and staying in the town. Ms Carfrae thanked all the sponsors and helpers.

In the rain: Jemima Wilson (Leongatha) was getting wet on Sunday morning at the Korumburra showgrounds.

Keen spectators: Lisa and Glenn Dalgarno (Berrys Creek) and Jenny Edwards (Berrys Creek) watch the horse action from the pavilion.

Meeniyan basketball Men

November 10: R & R 80 (J. Byrnes 24, C. Kuhnell 20) d Young Guns 32 (T. Fleming 11); Amberﬂuids 52 (J. Kennedy 20) d St Boys 28 (Z. Chalmers 7, D. Annison 7); Travelling Gilmores 45 (D. Westaway 14) d Goatriders 29 (S. Vuillermin 12). November 17: Goatriders 47 (S. Vuillermin 17) d Young Fellas 33 (L. Findlay 11); Amberﬂuids 44 (L. Jones 13) d Travelling Gilmores 37 (P. Dixon 14); R & R 73 (D. Veale 19) d St Boys 38 (J. Bacon

15).

Women November 4: Bench Warmers 35 (J. Frassenei 12) d Mixtures 29 (B. Eygenraam 9); Gunners 37 (J. Gibaud 13) d Test Tubes 30 (M. Hughes 9); Hogs - bye. November 11: Test Tubes 56 (M. Livingstone 14) d Bench Warmers 18 (R. Frassenei 10); Hogs 45 (J. Bloch 14) d Mixtures 22 (B. Eygenraam 14); Gunners - bye. November 18: Gunners 28 (J. Gibaud 11) d Hogs 26 (K. Densley 13);

Test Tubes 56 (K. Grylls 15) d Mixtures 10 (R. McLean 4, B. Eygenraam 4); Bench Warmers - bye.

Ladders Men R & R ................................218 Amberﬂuids ......................147 Travelling Gilmores ......... 112 Goatriders ...........................97 St Boys .................................51 Young Fellas.........................51 Women Gunners .............................. 116 Test Tubes..........................218 Hogs ...................................142 Bench Warmers ..................62 Mixtures ...............................44

6 6 4 4 4 2 9 7 7 7 3

Keeping dry: Bruce Holman (treasurer of the Korumburra Agricultural and Pastoral Society) and Dolly Joyce (Outtrim) in the back of a horse truck on Sunday.

Bad weather: Ben Conway (Nyora) clears the jump.

Success for local riders in Werribee HORSE riders from around South Gippsland joined some 660 riders and 150 teams from around Victoria to compete in the State Top Teams event at Werribee recently. Two local riders Nikki Rendon, Leongatha and Jill Grayden of Phillip Island scored impressive wins.

Leongatha Croquet Club EIGHTEEN croquet players enjoyed both the three days of good weather, and our annual tournament. Bakers Delight added a few unwanted calories with their contributions to morn-

ing tea and lunch. We were very grateful to them. Results of the three sections: Winner Sandra Birch, runner-up Jen Davy; Ron Davies, runner-up Robin Peatﬁeld; Robert Smallwood, runner-up Elvie Olden. Pennant was not played this week.

Croquet stars: Robert Smallwood (Morwell), Sandra Birch (Leongatha), Ron Davies (Traralgon).

Charlie boy: local rider Libby McDonald of Leongatha enjoyed competing on her horse, Charlie at Werribee recently.

Horsin’ around: from left, Leongatha and District Equestrian Club member Nicky Rendon chalked up a win at the State Top Teams event at Werribee recently on her friend’s horse Chevron, owner Gayle Lawson Verdon and Sarah Lewis with her horse Bugsy. Right: Riding high: Phillip Island Adult Riding Club member Jill Grayden came home with a blue ribbon and a bundle of prizes for her win at on Phoenix Grand in the Level Two Jackpot section at the State Top Teams event at Werribee that attracted 150 teams and some 660 riders from around Victoria.

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Angela sprints into record books -second fastest state sprinter KORUMBURRA Secondary College student Angela Byrne (Year 9) won the 100m and 200m double at the Victorian All Schools Track and Field Championships recently in the Under 16 age group.

Her time in the 100m was a slick 11.96 seconds, breaking Lauren Hewitt’s long standing record. Angela is now ranked second fastest in Victoria for the open age women’s 100m just behind Tamsyn Lewis at 11.95. She is now ranked equal 16th nationally of all women for the 100m. In winning the 200m Angela also recorded a PB by over 1 second finishing the final in 24.87seconds ranking her in the top ten in this state for the 200m. Neither are her siblings slouches. Sister Robyn, a Year 8 student at the college, won a bronze medal in the Under 15 triple jump event and competed in both the 100m and 200m events. Robyn was a little unlucky in the sprint events, just missing the finals. Brother Shane, a Grade 5 student at St Josephs Primary School at Korumburra tried his luck at both 100m and 200m in the Under 14 age group and despite missing the finals for both events recorded PBs for both distances. Many local schoolchildren won a swag of medals. Mary MacKillop Year 7 student Eleanor Patterson won the Under 14 high jump with a leap of 1.67m, becoming Victorian All Schools champion for the first time. Eleanor is ranked at No 6 for high jump in Victoria for open women and she is only 13 years old. Eleanor also competed in the long jump in the U14 age group, finishing a creditable eighth place in the event. Year 8 Mary MacKillop College student Rachel O’Loughlin competed in both the long jump and javelin events in the Under 15 age group, for the first time recording a creditable tenth in the long jump and twelfth in the javelin. Eleanor (high jump) and Angela (100m) have qualified to represent Victoria at the Australian All Schools Track and Field Championships next month in Tasmania.

Flying high: Victorian schools high jump champion, Eleanor Patterson, will compete in Tasmania next month.

Ready to race: brother Shane Byrne was ready to take on the older kids.

Slick time: Angela Byrne is making a name for herself on the track.

Meet the new Tiger coaches Ella supports Mega Swim By Rover

A BARBECUE lunch and “meet the 2010 Mirboo North football and netball coaches” get-together for players, committee members and supporters, is being held at Tigerland’s W J Tuck Recreation Reserve headquarters, this Sunday November 29 at 12.30 pm.

Joe Koene has replaced Andrew Taylor as president who, after five successful years at the helm of MNFNC, did not seek re-election. The mighty Tigers have appointed dynamic onballer, Matt “Joffa” Holland, as their senior football playing coach for season 2010. Holland’s selection from a field of five applicants, follows the retirement of the highly regarded Troy Hamilton, who led Mirboo North to its 40-year droughtbreaking 2006 premiership and was also a key member of its 2007 flag side.

Holland, who has been with Mirboo North since joining the Tigers from Meeniyan Dumbalk in 2007, will have former star and 2006 premiership representative, Chris Day, as his chief assistant on match days. Angie and Steven Rogers are netball president and vice-president respectively, with Leanne Taylor, secretary. The netball executive committee will now include senior and junior player representatives and a risk management ofﬁcer, who will check the courts each week. At this stage, Hamilton and champion goal kicker, Tim Traill, who has moved to Queensland, will be the only footballers absent from the 2009 side, which ﬁnished third. Traill was Mid Gippsland’s leading goal kicker in his four seasons at Tigerland and will be sorely missed by teammates and spectators alike. His great play netted four club goal kicking awards, two best and fairests, two premierships and well over 400 goals, including century hauls in 2004, 2006 and 2007.

Mirboo North is expecting dual premiership player, Simon Busuttil, to line up for the Tigers in 2010 when he returns from overseas next March. The Tigers also have nine players stepping out of the thirds and are also actively looking for quality recruits to bolster the senior and reserves sides. Brendan O’Loughlin replaces Karl Loh as coach of the reserves and Damien Turner will continue as thirds coach. Loh, whose resignation, due to increasing work commitments, was reluctantly accepted by the Tigers, is expected to continue as a player. O’Loughlin, who played for Footscray Under 19s in his youth, and later Leongatha and Newborough, will bring a lot of wisdom, knowledge and experience to the playing group. The club is still in the process of appointing a fourths coach. Netball coaches for 2010 are - A Grade: Rachel Vansittart, B and D Grade: Leanne Taylor, C Grade and 17 & Under: Jessie Hilliar, 15 & Under: Angie and Steven Rogers.

Ella Clark was a member of a Traralgon Based Team “Chaotic Allsorts” that participated in the MS Mega Swim from 12 noon on Saturday, November 21 until 12 noon on Sunday, November 22, held at the Melbourne Sport and Aquatic Centre. The 24 Hour Mega Swim is a fun team event comprising of no more than 15 swimmers per team. Each team must have one swimmer in the water for the entire 24 hours. Funds raised from the 24 hour Mega Swim supports the Go For Gold Foundation which provides scholarships to people living with Multiple Sclerosis to aspire and achieve to the best of their ability and also contributes to ﬁnancial assistance programs to provide direct and immediate support for people living with MS. The Chaotic Allsorts achieved their goal of swimming non stop for the 24 hour period and in total swam 47.5 kilometres. Retired Olympic swimmers Michael Klim, Sarah Ryan,

Klim thrill: Ella Clark was pleased to catch up with one of our Aussie swimming greats, Michael Klim. Daniel Kowloski, Linley Frame and Nicole Stevenson also swam in the event. Ella is a member of the Leongatha Swimming Club and is keen to participate in the Mega Swim again next year.

Wonthaggi little athletics SIXTY athletes braved the wet conditions on Saturday to record a very impressive 72 PBs in the conditions.

New top Demon MEENIYAN Dumbalk D b lk United’s U it d’ family f il day d was a chance h to t meett the th new crew who h will ill be b leading l di the club into season 2010. President Wayne Cook (left) welcomed aboard new senior coach Leigh Wilson (holding daughter Charli), who coached Korumburra Under 18s last year. The club is conﬁdent its young, but talented list can lift it out of the Alberton league doldrums over the next couple of years.

Well done to Alyssa Dainty (U8G) and Billy Taylor (U10B) both achieved 4 PBs out of their five events. For the last couple of weeks we have been missing our barbecue man. Trevor has been in hospital with a fairly serious illness. We have missed you Trev and hope that you are on the mend. The club had quite a bit of success away from Billson Street over the last week. Lachlan Bird, last season’s male Club Champion, has won his way through to the semi finals of the “Victoria’s Fastest Kid” competition. Lachlan won his 100 metre heat at Knox on Saturday and has made it into the final group of 144 Under

13 boys from across the State who will fight it out this Thursday, November 26 for one of eight spots in the final. The final will be held during the Zatopek 10000 at Olympic Park on Thursday, December 10. The winner will be crowned “Victoria’s fastest Kid” and win an Adidas sponsorship. The club did very well at the Inverloch fun run last Sunday, producing four winners. Congratulations to Ryan Sparkes (U9) who won the Under 13 Boys section, a great effort for an eight year old and Sadie Plumb (U14) won the Under 17 Girls section, again, a great effort for a 13 year old. Congratulations also to father and daughter team Imigen Langford (U12) and Dean Langford (our starter) who won the Under 13 Girls section and the Over 40 Male section. Dean was also the second person overall to cross the finish line.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 55

Table tennis finals LEONGATHA table tennis association celebrated the end of their season last week.

The A Reserve and B Grade ﬁnals were played on Thursday night. The A Grade ﬁnal was also played recently. Starting on December 3 will be a fun

round robin event that will focus on experienced players helping those with fewer table tennis skills. Hopefully A Grade players will mentor A Reserve who in turn will mentor B Grade. Players who turn up on the night will be put in a team for the round robin.

Stephen Loftus: a picture of concentration.

Bryce Holwerda: the most improved junior and B Grade aggregate award winner.

Tom Lott medal: Arthur Gregory was the best club person.

Junior comp: back: Brigid Johnson, Jocelin Ashley, Stuart Bright, Rory Hanks, Jye Davey, Emily James, Hannah McEwan, Elly Jones, Kasey Thorson, Darlene Jones (coach), Zara Jones and Kirra Jones; front: Andrea Thorson (assistant coach), Holly DeGaris, Irene Thorson, Aaron Mowat, Jai Bright, Jake Waldron, Kira Wadron, Amelia James and Matthew Moss at Meeniyan. Absent: Harry Vanderzalm and William McDonald.

Meeniyan junior basketball competition FRIDAY, November 20 saw the completion of section one junior competition at Meeniyan.

A Grade doubles winners: Mark Dowling and Kevin Dowling. Mark was the runner-up in the singles.

A Grade doubles runners-up: Dirk Holwerda and Frank Hirst. Dirk was the singles champion. Right: B Grade runners-up: team Tigers; Daniel Campbell, Mitchell Hansen and Kathy Campbell.

Riley Hansen: most improved B Grade player.

A total of 18 children commenced the season, learning a variety of skills, rules and team work, followed by a round robin of games each Friday night. Throughout the season all the children have improved and learnt many aspects of the game. The last night consisted of a night of fun, involving parents. The children showed their parents a few warm-up activities, followed by a game of tunnel ball, with the person at the end, dribbling the ball down and having a shot at goal. The score line was as follows: team one (adults) one point, team two (kids) ﬁve points, team three (kids) six points. The kids showed how well they can do in a drill, concentrate and then shoot well. They were very determined to win, especially when it means beat-

C O N G R AT U L A TIONS and good luck to all teams playing in ﬁnals next week.

Veteran cyclists take on the hills

Ladders Section 1

Left: A Reserve runners-up: Michael Holwerda (ﬁlling in), Katrina Spark and Luke Taylor playing for team 5 seconds. Absent Satish Gaddam.

won by the children. Goals to Amelia, Jye D., Kasey and Jai B., and well assisted by all of their team-mates. Thank you to everyone involved. Good luck to the ones who go up to section two next year, and we hope to see everyone else back in February to enjoy this great game of basketball.

• GIPPSLAND VETERAN CYCLING

Up to November 17

B Grade winners: team Beavers; Stephen Loftus, Stuart Campbell and Aiden Holwerda.

ing their parents. Following this, was a series of short games. They got to play a game with their parent, then it was adults versus children. All games were played with great fun and showed good team-work and great sportsmanship (and good umpiring), with all the games easily

Midweek ladies tennis

All teams not playing in the knock-out finals are required to supply four umpires. Section 1 and 3 will play at Leongatha, Section 2 will play at Inverloch and Section 4 will play at Wonthaggi. Grand finals will all be played at Leongatha. Could all home teams please phone in November 24 results to Diane Harrison on 5664 5467. Teams will be notified if there is any change to the ladders after the final home and away match.

Below: A Reserve winners: team Birko; Robert Calder, Mathew Oommen and Stephen Hansen.

Reach high: Jai Bright and dad, Tim Bright in a jump ball.

Inverloch ..............................88.0 Wonthaggi ............................63.0 Leongatha ............................61.5 Westernport .........................53.5 Phillip Island .........................34.0 Section 2 Inverloch Madﬁsh ...............88.0 Wonthaggi Kit Kats ............75.0 Wonthaggi Tic Tacs .............71.0 Foster....................................66.0 Bena ......................................46.0 Inverloch Shells ....................30.0 Section 3 Inverloch ..............................84.5 Phillip Island Koalas ...........76.5 Phillip Island Penguins .......66.5 Nyora ....................................57.0 Leongatha*............................31.5 Fish Creek* ..........................27.0 Section 4 Wonthaggi White.................78.0 Wonthaggi Red ....................76.0 Corinella...............................70.0 Wonthaggi Gold ..................58.0 Wonthaggi Blue.....................53.0 Inverloch ...............................26.0 * Denotes no score sheets.

South Gippsland Bridge Club Results Tarwin Lower – Tuesday afternoon. North/ South: 1st Jack Kuiper, Alan Johnston. 2nd Dawn Jolly, Bluey Aeschlimann. 3rd Frank Arndt, Clive Hope. East/West: 1st Anne Gibson, Althea Drew. 2nd Ian and Julie MacPhee. 3rd

Colin Cameron, Kathryn Smith. Inverloch – Friday afternoon. North/South: Jack Kuiper, Dina Drury. 2nd John Farr, Anne Williams. 3rd Faye Rowlands, Anne Gibson. East/West: 1st Alan Johnson, Clive Hope. 2nd George Geekie, Dawn Jolly. 3rd Colin Manley, John Sutton.

LAST Saturday a group of Gippsland veteran cyclists competed at Yarra Glen in the annual ‘Omera’ 100km race held over a very challenging course suited for the hill climbers. The race is run by the Eastern Veteran Club. Best of the Gippsland riders were Geoff Cranstone who won the E Grade section, with Rod Cheyne in C Grade riding strongly to ﬁnish but out of a placing, the same for Rod Green in D Grade. These three riders ﬁgure in placings each week and are proving the strong riders of

the club. Training rides are this Wednesday and Sunday at 9am at Kernot, with the next club race on December 6, all welcome. Terry Watchorn on Saturday rode the tough Otway rainforest ride of 110km, starting and ﬁnishing at Apollo Bay. This is a spectacular ride through Beech Forest and Lavers Hill. The ride is to raise money for the Burnet Institute in their ﬁght for a cure for infectious disease. Over 1000 riders competed on the day. These rides are becoming very popular and there are many to choose from throughout the year.

Korumburra badminton THERE’S only one round left. Transformers 183 defeated Gladiator 149. With a bye next week, Transformers has booked its ticket in the grand final on December 9. Matrix 183 were too good for Rambo 157, making it almost a certainty to finish in third spot and achieve a finals berth against Shenanigans in the first week of the finals on December 2. Gladiator and Rambo have fought bravely, but both are likely to finish their seasons this week.

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

•LDCA A GRADE DIVISION ONE

Washout disappointment THE top of the table clash between OMK and Wonthaggi Workmens ended in a draw after water seeped under the covers on the Butch West Turf oval. The water apparently affected one of the bowling run-ups. OMK have a couple of left armers and they would have been most affected. Rain had been falling in the morning but by game time it had stopped. The curators had removed the covers and the stumps were in position ready for play. The decision not to play, although quite within the rights of OMK, surprised at least one member of the opposing team. “OMK had 239 on the board and with a slow outﬁeld, I reckon they had a real chance,” Craig Harvey told The Star. “There was a bit in the wicket as well,” he said. “Look, I was a bit surprised but, at the end of the day, we respected the decision that the water could have posed some problems.” The Star asked whether

there was any sawdust on hand to try to help the situation. “Actually we share the ground and it was OMK’s home game so I don’t know who is responsible but there was no sawdust. We have taken this up with the curators,” he said. All other games in A Grade Division One were completed. Inverloch gets home Inverloch 9/213 secured a strong win over Nerrena 186. Walter Taberner scored 53 and remained steady when wickets were tumbling around him. Later on Dylan Clark accelerated the scoring rate with six fours and three sixes in his score of 88. Inverloch passed the score with the loss of seven but lost two late wickets. Tim Wightman with 5/46 from 23 overs was a superb effort. Korumburra easily Korumburra’s 254 the previous week set up victory against Miners, all out for 117. Josh Andrighetto with 34 was the best of the bats while a number of Burra bowlers got amongst the wickets. Miners were sent

On game: Udara Weerasinghe bowls for Korumburra as Wonthaggi Miners’ player, Matt Johnson bats. in again and ﬁnished better with 0/57. Imps too strong Imperials 9/227 accounted for Glen Alvie 173. This match was a lot closer than scores suggest; Imperials fell to 7/130 at

one stage and were still 43 behind. Adam Eddy and Dom Davis managed to help Imperials get over the line. Gary Sauvarin started well again with 43; Troy Williams made a quick

53, while Dom Davis 35 not out and Adam Eddy 38 made sure victory belonged to Imperials.

A GRADE DIVISION 1 GLEN ALVIE1 v IMPERIALS 1st Innings Glen Alvie

Total .......................................173 1st Innings Imperials G. Sauvarin c. S. Lowe b. D. Hynes ...........................43 N. Eddy c. C. Tait b A. Simpson ...........................4 X. Davis c. M. Roberts b. K. Simpson..........................3 T. Williams c&b. D. Hynes ......53 L. Rogers b. D. Hynes................7 B. Pedlow c. B. Ould b. A. Donohue .........................5 D. Davis n.o. ............................35 M. Lafferty c. A. Simpson b. D. Hynes .............................1 A. Eddy c. A. Donohue b. B. Ould ..............................38 M. Malloy stp. S. Lowe b. K. Simpson........................ 11 J. Pellicano n.o. ........................10 Extras .......................................17 Total ....................................9/227 Bowling: A. Simpson 1/42, B. Ould 1/36, K. Simpson 2/47, A. Donohue 1/40, D. Hynes 4/47. WONTHAGGI MINERS v KORUMBURRA 1st Innings Korumburra Total .......................................254 1st Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Donohue lbw. b. U. Weerasinghe .................15 J. Andrighetto c. U. Weerasinghe b. M. Patching .......................34 C. Thomas c. U. Weerasinghe b M. Patching ...........................1 M. Johnson b. U. Weerasinghe 18 J. Helman b. D. Wyhoon ............7 D. Beesey c. A. Balfour b. D. Wyhoon ..........................4 J. Trevisi c. D. Salmon b. U. Weerasinghe ...................8 R. Birkett lbw. b. D. Wyhoon .....0 B. Mattock c. U. Weerasinghe b. I. Osman ............................17 R. Thomas n.o. ...........................0 Extras .......................................12 Total ....................................... 117 Bowling: U. Weerasinghe 3/43, K. Dorman 0/20, M. Patching 2/16, D. Wyhoon 3/22, I.

Osman 1/4. 2nd Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Donohue n.o. ......................31 J. Andrighetto n.o. ....................20 Extras .........................................6 Total ......................................0/57

Bowling: D. Scott 0/15, I. Osman 0/28, J. Cook 0/6, B. Hayes 0/2. NERRENA v INVERLOCH 1st Innings Nerrerna

Total .......................................186 1st Innings Inverloch W. Taberner c. D. Symmons b. J. Trease.............................53 B. Debono lbw. b. T. Wightman ........................6 A. Ware c. S. Checkley b. T. Wightman ........................0 D. Ruffin c. D. Symmons b. S. Checkley .......................13 J. Smith c. D. Symmons b. T. Wightman ........................0 D. Clark c. R. Clark b. C. Rump ............................88 W. Rankin c. T. West b. T. Wightman ......................24 M. Anderson c. T. Wightman b. S. Checkley .........................1 N. Cant c. S. Checkley b. T. Wightman ........................1 A. Hall n.o. .................................9 L. Rankin n.o..............................7 Extras .......................................12 Total ....................................9/213 Bowling: C. Rump 1/52, J. Trease 1/29, T. Wightman 5/46, R. Clark 0/11, S. Checkley 2/42, D. Symmons 0/10, G. Murphy 0/13, M. Clark 0/1. OMK v WONTHAGGI WORKMENS 1st Innings OMK Total .......................................239 Match drawn.

• B GRADE

Slur case dropped Imperials defend 184

KORUMBURRA cricketer Udara Weerasinghe will not pursue claims of a racist slur.

The incident happened while Weerasinghe was representing Leongatha against Traralgon during a Gippsland Cricket League match two weekends back, and led to pushing and shoving between him and a Traralgon player. “They’re just going to let it slide, I think. Udara doesn’t want to go through

the whole process, which is pretty extensive,” Leongatha team manager Kristian Gray said. “Both players were reported for making contact.” Mr Gray has read the report ﬁlled out by Weerasinghe in relation to what was alleged to have been said, but was not willing to comment on the matter. “The complaint’s not going to go through, so I’m not really going to worry about commenting on that,” he said.

LDCA ladders A Grade Division 1 Won Workmens .......... 88.09 OMK............................ 73.13 Imperials ..................... 69.97 Inverloch ..................... 57.39 Won Miners .................. 57.06 Korumburra .................. 43.16 Nerrena ......................... 32.23 Glen Alvie .................... 29.05 A Grade Division 2 Phillip Island............. 105.48 Koonwarra RSL ......... 82.45 Fish Creek/Tarwin ..... 70.97 Poowong/Loch ............ 67.52 Town ............................ 56.13 MDU ............................ 44.24 Wonthaggi Miners ........ 32.93 Inverloch ...................... 15.17 B Grade Phillip Island............... 83.69 Foster........................... 70.41 Nerrena ....................... 65.42 Glen Alvie.................... 58.81 Won Workmens ............ 52.85 Imperials ...................... 48.68 OMK ............................ 35.64 Korumburra .................. 20.52 C Grade OMK............................ 73.08 Town ............................ 72.77 Poowong/Loch ............ 68.41 Koonwrra RSL ........... 67.44 Won Workmens ............ 48.00 MDU ............................ 46.83 Won Miners .................. 35.89 Fish Creek/Tarwin ........ 34.86

D Grade Town ............................ 84.11 Phillip Island............... 71.02 Nerrena ....................... 60.83 Inverloch ..................... 58.94 Koonwarra RSL ........... 46.31 Korumburra .................. 45.12 Imperials ...................... 32.56 Glen Alvie .................... 19.17 E Grade Foster........................... 77.37 Won Miners ................ 64.99 Phillip Island............... 64.96 Poowong/Loch ............ 59.19 Won Workmens ............ 38.56 OMK ............................ 34.47 MDU ............................ 32.06 Town ............................ 31.09 Under 16 East Imperials ..................... 47.05 Korumburra ............... 45.66 Leongatha Town ......... 38.86 Foster........................... 13.81 MDU ............................ 12.20 Koonwarra RSL ........... 12.19 Fish Creek/Tarwin .......... 8.79 Under 16 West Phillip Island............... 45.96 Won Miners ................ 39.30 OMK............................ 35.08 Won Workmens .......... 31.35 Poowong/Loch ............. 20.51 Glen Alvie .................... 16.99 Inverloch ........................ 3.74

Cricket Snippets The LDCA has one representative in the Gippsland Pride Under 14 side, Michael Mantiet from Phillip Island, who will play in Melbourne during January. **** Four LDCA Under 16 players tried out for the Gippsland Under 16 side in a practice match over the weekend, Alex Manteit and Eli Richards from Phillip Island, Mark McCall from Wonthaggi Workmens and Tim Harris, Meeniyan Dumbalk. **** The Gippsland Under 21 Representative side played Ballarat in the State ﬁnal at Sale, unfortunately play was washed out with Gippsland at 3 for 60, the ﬁnal will be rescheduled. LDCA was represented by Sam Sperling, Koonwarra RSL and Barry Wyatt from OMK. **** GCL Under 16s Leongatha v Central Gippsland was rescheduled until the end of January due to Dowling Shield training, which affected both sides.

IMPERIALS have triumphed over Glen Alvie, with Jans backing up Connelly’s solid first innings total of 66, with 41 runs. Glen Alvie bowling champion Tiziani was on song, with 3/16. But it was not enough to get his team across the line. Hawthorn footballer and handy cricket Jarryd Roughead was good with the ball and in the field. OMK could not chase down Wonthaggi Workmens’ first innings total of 218, despite 51 not out from Rose in a second innings stance. Superlative bowling performances from Workmens’ Thomas and McLean in the first innings (the pair claimed six wickets for 53 runs) kept OMK on the back foot. FOSTER and Nerrena have drawn in a low scoring affair. Best with the bat was Nerrena’s Zack Trease, who notched up 49 runs, an innings that included six boundaries. Foster’s Coates was a standout performer with the ball, claiming 4/27. PHILLIP ISLAND displayed its batting arsenal to full effect, slashing its way through a succession of Korumburra bowlers, and securing an easy win.

Cleeland and Hornsby hit a total of 285 (declared) in a massive innings. It was a total the Burra boys were unable to chase down. Korumburra’s Rigby did his solid best with the bat, but although Phillip Island’s Santalucia went out for a duck, he had a freakishly good day bowling, with 6/52.

B GRADE IMPERIALS v GLEN ALVIE 1st Innings Imperials Total ................................... 184 1st Innings Glen Alvie S. Edwards c. J. Roughead b. D. Connelly ...................... 1 M. Hull c. J. Roughead b. C. Roughead .................. 11 D. Tiziani b. M. Collins .......... 9 L. Gennicarro c. T. Jans b. J. Roughead.................... 13 R. Bolding b. D. Connelly ..... 34 B. Tiley lbw. b. N. Slater ....... 11 E. Sheerin b. D. Connelly........ 0 S. Nippers c&b. J. Roughead 11 J. Hales b. N. Slater ................ 0 A. Hamilton n.o. ..................... 8 Extras .................................... 12 Total ................................... 110 Bowling: M. Collins 1/24, D. Connelly 3/21, J. Fiddelaers 0/19, C. Roughead 1/3, G. Forrester 0/9, J. Roughead 2/15, R. Mullens 0/0,. N. Slater 2/11. 2nd Innings Imperials A. Pellin c. M. Hull b. S. Nippers ........................ 3 T. Jans c. J. Hales b. D. Tiziani ....................... 41 J. Roughead lbw. b. S. Nippers ...................... 23 R. Mullens c. L Gennicarro b. R. Bolding ....................... 8 D. Connelly b. D. Tiziani ........ 0 K. Gray c. B. Tiley b D. Tiziani .......................... 4 M. Collins c. S. Nippers b. L. Gennicarro ................. 13 N.Slater c. B. Tiley b. J. Hales .......................... 19 J. Fiddelaers b. J. Hales ........... 8

G. Forrester n.o. ...................... 3 Extras .................................... 17 Total ................................... 139 Bowling: S. Nippers 2/29, J. Hales 1/29, R. Bolding 1/34, D. Tiziani 3/16, L. Gennicarro 1/6, A. Hanmilton 0/4, S. Edwards 0/8. 2nd Innings Glen Alvie B. Tiley c. R. Mullens b. D. Connelly ..................... 2 L. Gennicarro c. K. Gray b. J. Roughead....................... 3 A. Hamilton c. R. Mullens b. J. Fiddelaers ................... 12 M. Hull c. A. Pellin b. M. Collins ........................ 1 E. Sheerin n.o........................ 16 S. Edwards n.o. ..................... 10 Extras ...................................... 3 Total .................................. 4/47 Bowling: J. Roughead 1/2, D. Connelly 1/12, J. Fiddelaers 1/9, M. Collins 1/5, G. Forrester 0/0, N. Slater 0/7, K. Gray 0/3, R. Mullens 0/7. KORUMBURRA v PHILLIP ISLAND 1st Innings Korumburra Total ................................... 125 Bowling: S. Docherty 0/4, J. Kleverkamp 0/9, J. Emery 0/19, R. Cleeland 2/15, O. Santalucia 6/52, E. Richards 0/9, Z. Brown 2/12, T. Hornsby 0/4. 1st Innings Phillip Island O. Santalucia b. D. Bailey ...... 0 R. Cleeland n.o. .................. 119 T. Hornsby n.o. ................... 148 Extras .................................... 18 Total ................................ 1/285 Bowling: M. Loader 0/30, D. Bailey 1/59, S. Phillips 0/52, K. Rigby 0/52, M. Wight 0/30, L. Williams 0/48, J. Meade 0/2, H. Hames 0/25. 2nd Innings Korumburra K. Ribgy b. E. Richards ........ 24 R. Webster c. J. Broomhall b. R. Cleeland .................... 10 H. Wyhoon b. O. Santalucia .... 9 H. James b. E. Richards .......... 5 M. Wight b. E. Richards .......... 2 S. Phillips c. R. Cleeland b. E. Richards....................... 7 J. Meade lbw. b O. Santalucia . 0 D. Bailey c&b. O. Santalucia 20 J.Wyhoon lbw. b. E. Richards.. 7 L. Williams n.o. ...................... 4 Extras ...................................... 8

Total ..................................... 95 Bowling: S. Docherty 0/17, R. Cleeland 1/19, E. Richards 5/19, O. Santalucia 3/19, Z. Brown 0/11. FOSTER v NERRENA 1st Innings Nerrena Total ................................... 166 1st Innings Foster Total .................................. 3/23 Match drawn. WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v OMK 1st Innings OMK Total ................................... 125 1st Innings Wonthaggi Workmens M. Thomas c&b. T. Creed ....... 3 S. Huitema r.o. B. Nation ...... 37 D. Britt c. M. Walker b. K. Kerr ........................... 14 L. Sawyer c&b. N. Adams ..... 11 S. Bolding lbw. b. B. Nation . 17 J. Bolding c. T. Creed b. B. Nation........................ 11 C. Pitman lbw. b. T. Creed ...... 1 A. McLean c&b. N. Adams ... 79 M. McCall c. M. Walker b. T. Creed ......................... 13 A. Sasrtori c&b. T. Creed ........ 0 S. Coldabella n.o. .................. 22 Extras .................................... 10 Total ................................... 218 Bowling: T. Creed 4/46, N. Adams 2/43, G. Adams 0/6, T. Wyatt 0/11, K. Kerr 1/7, D. McMeekin 0/31, J. Paterson 0/25, B. Nation 2/36, A. Rose 0/11. 2nd Innings OMK J. Van Rooye c. S. Huitema b. M. Thomas ................... 25 A. Rose n.o. .......................... 51 N. Adams c. S. Bolding b. L. Sawyer ......................... 8 B. Nation c. S. Coldabella b. L. Sawyer ......................... 8 J. Paterson n.o. ........................ 1 Extras ...................................... 3 Total .................................. 3/97 Bowling: M. Thomas 1/29, M. McCall 0/22, L. Sawyer 2/23, S. Coldabella 0/20.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 57

• A GRADE DIVISION 2

Island takes to MDU bowlers PHILLIP ISLAND has triumphed over MDU, after a fabulous stance by Murphy and Keating that included 18 boundaries and six sixes. Murphy ﬁnished the day on 132 not out. Phillip Island declared its innings after the fall of Keating for 76. MDU batted well, but not well enough, falling 48 runs short of a win. Phillip Island’s Clint Wilson wreaked havoc with the ball, claiming 5/40. TOWN cruised to an easy victory over Inverloch, with opening batsman Robert Templeton showing the way with the bat, notching up 69 runs.

Bruce and Johnston were good with the ball for town, with Bruce showing his style by claiming 5/25 in a stand alone bowling performance. Despite Inverloch’s poor bowling performance, its bowlers were not disgraced. Dalmau was in particularly ﬁne form, claiming 6/23. K O O N WA R R A Leongatha RSL was far too good for Wonthaggi Miners, winning by 93 runs. The win was set up last week by the batting trio of Sperling, Sperling and Anderson, who took a brave middle order stand against the Miners bowlers. Despite the loss, Miners’ Cornelis was good with the bat, hitting 55 runs, while Jones was still

standing at the end with 36 not out. Koonwarra Leongatha RSL’s Sam Sperling was devastating with the ball, claiming 5/35. POOWONG Loch’s big first innings total of 279 was too much for Fish Creek Tarwin to chase down, despite some solid batting performances. Poowong Loch’s Adderley, Hancock and Holloway were in superb form in the first innings, helping to construct the impressive total. Likewise, the team’s gun bowler Jenkins was right on target with 5/35. Fish Creek Tarwin’s Dankert did well with the bat in the second innings, finishing the day with 59 not out, but it was too little too late.

A GRADE DIVISION 2 FISH CREEK/TARWIN v POOWONG/LOCH 1st Innings Fish Creek/Tarwin Total .......................................152 1st Innings Poowong/Loch M. Adderley c. S. Rabbitt b. L. Pratt...............................46 B. Hancock b. M. Danckert .....56 P. Dyer r.o. S. Rabbitt...............26 K. Nestor lbw. b. J. Danckert .....9 G. Greaves c. N. Wilkins b. L. Pratt ..............................35 C. Knox b. J. Danckert ...............6 C. McCurdy b. L. Pratt.............16 M. Holloway n.o. .....................53 S. Jenkins lbw. b. M. Danckert ......................20 A. Jenkins b. M. Danckert .........0 D. Brain c. M. Lynch b. M. Danckert ........................0 Extras .......................................12 Total .......................................279 Bowling: S. Rabbitt 0/59, N. Wilkins 0/33, M. Danckert 4/64, L. Pratt 3/33, J. Danckert 2/40, M. Watkins 0/31, J. Law 0/16. 2nd Innings Fish Creek/Tarwin J. Danckert n.o. ........................59 M. Lynch n.o. ...........................10 Extras .........................................3 Total ......................................0/72

Bowling: C. McCurdy 0/17, R. Greaves 0/23, B. Hancock 0/17, S. Jenkins 0/7, K. Nestor 0/1, M. Adderley 0/3, A. Jenkins 0/3. KOONWARRA RSL v WONTHAGGI MINERS 1st Innings Koonwarra RSL Total ....................................9/262 1st Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Wright b. J. Peters.................4 J. Burke c. S. Sperling b. B. Davison...........................1 P. Hammer b. S. Sperling .........23 L. Jones lbw. b. C. Wise .............1 D.Wylie stp. L. Sperling b. S. Sperling .........................30 B. Andrighetto b. S. Sperling .....0 J. Loos b. S. Sperling .................0 P. Cornelis c. C. Wise b. S. Sperling .........................55 R. Jones n.o. .............................36 D. Brown c. S. Sperling b. C. Wise ................................4 Extras .......................................15 Total .......................................169 Bowling: B. Davison 1/18, J. Peters 1/18, J. Kennedy 0/36, C. Wise 2/29, S. Sperling 5/35, B. Moscript 0/23. 2nd Innings Koonwarra RSL J. Moore n.o. ...........................21 S. Sperling c&b. D. Brown ......36 J. Kennedy n.o..........................47

LDCA Cricket Scoreboard Round 6 Day Two C Grade

Fish Creek Tarwin 77 lt Poowong/Loch 9/129 (T. Singh 36, G. Poynton 38; D. Rubenis 2/20, B. Anderson 3/26). Fish Creek/Tarwin 2nd innings 9/116 (M. Bright 22, J. Staley 37; S. Head 2/22, G. Poynton 3/23, C. Fraser 3/23). Wonthaggi Miners 221 lt Koonwarra RSL 8/259 (S. Paterson 50, S. Turner 44; T. Hamilton 2/32, M. Greenway 2/55, P. Loos 2/27). MDU 106 lt Town 184 (W. Geisler 41; B. McKnight 4/32, C. Harris 2/29). MDU 2nd innings 5/75 (T. Zukovskis 38; C. Hulshof 2/16, M. Borschman 3/6). OMK 231 d Wonthaggi Workmens 86 (T.

Pendlebury 25; D. Jeffries 2/19, B. Brewer 2/26, R. Provan 5/30). Wonthaggi Workmens 2nd innings 4/174 (S. Roche 41, M. Turton 36, T. Pendlebury n.o. 39; B. Brewer 2/40).

D Grade Imperials 7/207 d Glen Alvie 171 (J .Wheeler 29, S. Poole 41, R. Ould 28; T. Burgess 6/53, K. Hall 4/41). Nerrena 6/247 lt Inverloch 8/290 (W. Holmes 79, I. Smith 85; G. McGrath 3/56). Koonwarra RSL 127 lt Phillip Island 131 (D. Johnston 32; H. Langenburg 2/26, M. Martin 3/29, W. Egan 3/0). Town 5/258 d Korumburra 8/193 (G. Barrett

53, J. Greenwood n.o. 26, P. Kelly n.o. 51; J. Burge 2/58, W. Lomax 4/14).

E Grade Phillip Island 8/145 d Foster 0/0. MDU 7/151 lt Wonthaggi Miners 156 (B. Forsythe n.o. 46; J. Opray 3/44, J. Dean 4/30, H. Sinclair 2/19). OMK 142 lt Poowong/ Loch 205 (T. Lancaster ret. 80, J. Garnham 59, G. Birnie n.o. 14; B. Maguire 2/39, P. Malherbe 4/36). Town 9/260 d Wonthaggi Workmens 111 (R. McGuirk n.o. 25; C. Eldred 5/40, S. Worthy 2/28). Town 2nd innings 5/74 (M. Ellicott n.o. 33; D. McGuirk 3/35).

Under 16 East

Koonwarra/RSL 7/197 d Foster 2/83 (D. Clearihan-Jervies 28). MDU 7/140 d Town 2/42 (M. Borschman 15; J. Opray 1/20, K. Sinclair 1/5). Imperials 125 d Fish Creek/Tarwin 95 (Z. Redpath 26; Z. Price 3/3). Imperials 2nd innings 4/51 (J. Eldred n.o. 10, R. Higgins n.o. 5; J. Kelly 1/10, R. McGannon 2/9; D. Walker 1/9). Inverloch 32 lt Korumburra 7/162 (M. Wight 46; J. Sorrell 3/39).

Under 16 West OMK 79 d Glen Alvie 68 (D. Gilbert 21, S. Beasley 20; T. Wyatt 3/25, J. Harris 4/12, C. O’Brien 2/4). 2nd innings OMK 74

(C. O’Brien n.o. 19; S. Beasley 1/8, D. Gilbert 1/9, J. Bowler 1/12, L. McRae 1/11, K. Thomas 1/3, J. Tiziani 1/3). 2nd innings Glen Alvie 8/72 (S. Beasley 19, J. Tiziani n.o. 9, A. Sartori n.o. 2; T. Wyatt 2/32, C. O’Brien 3/17, P. Mulherbe 2/4, J. Harris 1/9). Poowong/Loch 7/261 drew Wonthaggi Miners 4/51 (M. Schreck 16, J. Piasente n.o. 9; T. Lancaster 3/17). Wonthaggi Workmens Gold 72 (J. Thomas 15, S. Beatty n.o. 1; S. Docherty 2/8, . Manteit 2/21, M. Francis 2/1, B. Johnston 2/9) lt Phillip Island 1/111 (E. Richards n.o. 58, A. Manteit n.o 47).

• CENTRAL GIPPSLAND CRICKET

Under 14 Cricket Mirboo North face uphill battle MOST games were affected by rain on Saturday morning in the Under 14s. Ladder

NERRENA v KORUMBURRA 1st Innings Nerrena N. Argento ret..........................25 A. Trotto ...................................15 B. McKenzie ret. ......................26 J. Hoy ret. .................................26 M. Renden n.o. .........................14 Total ....................................2/127

Bowling: A. Trotto 1/12, J. Hoy 3/6, J. Hoy 2/22, S. Anderson 0/8, M. Trotto 0/24, B. Amato 0/18, M. Renden 0/25, A. Brown 0/23, N. Argento 3/10, N. Trotto 0/19, D. McAlpine 0/10. 1st Innings Korumburra Pip ............................................29 Kurt ret. ....................................17 Jacob n.o. .................................15 Total ..................................10/189 Bowling: Bailey 1/23, Liam 0/15, Brayden 0/20, Tom 1/17, Jackson 0/15, Pip 1/5, Ashley 0/10, Jacob 0/5, Kate 0/10 Jordan 0/3.

Nerrena U12 NERRENA welcomed the Fish Creek Tarwin team to Nerrena for their ﬁrst home game of the season. FC/T won the toss and asked the Nerrena boys to bat. Tight bowling and good ﬁelding by the FC/T boys restricted Nerrena to 131. Best batting pairs were Anthony Argento 18 with four 4s, Zayn Clark 10 two 4s and Nick Argento 15 three 4s, Sam Hanrahan 9 two 4s. Strong batting from the FC/T boys and 34 extras enabled them score a total of 177. Nerrena’s wicket takers were Ben Perry 2 overs 1 for 4, Caleb Wearne 2 overs 1 for 11, Elii Clark 2 overs 1 for 1 and Nick Argento 2 overs 2 for 11. The boys will travel to Inverloch to play round four next Friday, November 27.

A CENTURY opening stand between Aiden Vesty (71) and Barney Webber (73) has placed Newborough Bulldogs in a strong position against Mirboo North after day one of round seven of the Central Gippsland Cricket. A wet outfield to start the game did not do the condition of the ball any favours and late in the day the batsmen found it difficult to pick up the ball at the town end. With about an hour to go before stumps Mirboo North captain Anthony Matthews was advised by the umpire that the Newborough batsmen were having difficulty in picking up the ball from the cypress trees. Rather than risk an appeal against the light, Matthews used Dale Banks from the town end and Jed Alexander and Joe O’Loughlin from the

other end. Before the game Mirboo North had other problems as their two strike bowlers Jimmy Grande and Damian Turner were in the wedding party of Grande’s brother Steve. Also Shane Peters was involved in a farm accident earlier in the week and will be missing for a few weeks with an injured hand. Webber and Vesty took full advantage and made a great start with an opening stand of 119, but the Tigers fought their way back into the match before Wayne Fleming (28) and Alex Sword (63) steadied the innings to put on 55 for the eighth wicket and an end total of 311. Banks and Alexander bowled 49 of the 84 overs with Banks taking 2/79 off 26 and Alexander 2/95 off 23. O’Loughlin came on late and took 3/24 from 9.1 overs.

Senior scores Newborough Bulldogs 311 (B. Webber 73, A.

Vesty 71, A. Sword 63, B. Brincat 45) v Mirboo North. Morwell 174 (D. Embleton 39; B. Grima 3/20) d Moe 3/76 (T. Long 42). Latrobe 235 (K. Wells 54; D. Wilkie 4/42) v Yallourn North 0/0.

Second Grade Second Grade was highlighted by some interesting results with Jeeralang Boolarra Panthers causing the upset by beating St Vincents by three runs in a high scoring match and Newborough Bulldogs getting home by one run in a thriller against Mirboo North. Daniel Taylor with an unbeaten century was the star for the Panthers as they passed the Saints in the ﬁnal over. Bulldogs Nathan Lee came on to bowl when the pressure was really on against Mirboo North. Needing two runs to win Lee conceded a run and then had Anton Thomas caught on his fourth ball.

Extras .........................................5 Total ....................................1/109 Bowling: R. Jones 0/28, D. Brown 1/18, L. Jones 0/8, J. Loos 0/9, J. Burke 0/16, M. Wright 0/29. INVERLOCH v TOWN 1st Innings Inverloch Total .........................................70 1st Innings Town Total .......................................151 PHILLIP ISLAND v MDU 1st Innings MDU

Total .......................................200 1st Innings Phillip Island C. Viljoen c&b. M. Le Page .....18 K. Murphy n.o. .......................132 L. Keating lbw. b. S. Arnup .....76 A. Mantiet n.o. ...........................9 Extras .......................................12 Total ....................................2/247 Bowling: M. Dower 0/41, S. McRae 0/41, C. Hoober 0/23, M. Le Page 1/25, S. Browne 036, S. Arnup 1/40, B. Spokes 0/12, C. Le Page 0/8, A. Baillie 0/15.

Leongatha District Cricket Association Umpire Appointments Evans Petroleum Round 7 November 28 & Dec 5 Home team

Away Team

Ground Umpire

Grade A1 Imperials

v Inverloch

L Turf

Won Miners Won Workmens Korumburra

v OMK v Nerrena v Glen Alvie

WFG W Turf Kor

Clive Salmon / Luke Sullivan Graham Laird Alan Jordan Ken Lester

Grade A2 Inverloch Phillip Island Town Fish Creek/Tarwin

v v v v

Poowong/Loch Won Miners MDU Koonwarra RSL

I Turf Cowes WC1 FCT

B. Thomas Alan Roberts John Lea Les White

Grade B Foster OMK Nerrena Glen Alvie

v v v v

Imperials Phillip Island Won Workmens Korumburra

FGC OMK Nerr GA

Stephen Lanyon Hank Boltong B. McDonald Richard Poole

Grade C Poowong/Loch Won Miners Won Workmens Koonwarra RSL

v v v v

Town OMK MDU Fish Crk/Tarwin

Loch TBA MR Koon

Bob Allan Herb Roberts Marion Wishart Kevin Smith

Grade D Imperials Town Koonwarra RSL

v Inverloch v Phillip Island v Nerrena

EC WC2 MM

Korumburra

v Glen Alvie

KSC

Geoff Wyatt Rod Grylls Michael Heenan 2nd week John Williams

Grade E Poowong/Loch Phillip Island OMK Won Workmens

v v v v

Poow New LV Dal

TBA TBA TBA TBA

MDU Won Miners Town Foster

PAGE 58 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Trying out the track KORUMBURRA Motorcycle Club held its annual come and try day at the Outtrim Motocross Track on Sunday. For some the wet weather created plenty of mud and riding fun, while others weren’t so happy with the rain. Club president Darrin Taylor said most of the riders came with their families. About 185 riders, including some from the Mornington Peninsula and the outer suburbs of Melbourne took the opportunity to test out the track and their riding skills. Anyone could have a go on the track, as the club obtained an exemption that allowed people who weren’t Motorcycle

Victoria licensed members to ride. The aim of the day was to attract more members for the Korumburra Motorcycle Club, and about 14 people signed up on the day. Members can ride in the club’s events, which happen at least monthly. Dates for next year are still to be determined. The Outtrim track will host one round of the Gippsland regional series next year as well. The club is selling engraved pavers to make a picnic area in front of the canteen, which is also acting as a fundraiser for Alex Welsh, a club member who broke his back in January. For more information contact Sue Bailey on 5678 7098.

Watching on: Rory and mum, Lisa Byrne (Bena) were watching dad/husband and sister/daughter try out the motocross track.

Having fun: Lachlan Burns (Ryanston) was enjoying the day, but not the rain.

Come and try: motorbike enthusiasts welcomed the opportunity to ride at the Outtrim Motocross Track on Sunday.

Fythe saddles up another winner STONY Creek trainer, Ken Fythe, made the long trip to Seymour worthwhile last Thursday when Rael Rules scored an impressive win in the distance maiden. Ridden by Sebastian Murphy, the four-year-old did a bit of work to ﬁnd the lead early and could have been forgiven for throwing in the towel in the straight. It looked as though that would be the case when he was clearly headed by the more fancied Sharvee, but under hard riding he fought back for a very imposing victory. “I don’t think it was the jump to 2000 metres that was the key, but more the race experience he’s gained in his ﬁrst few runs,” said Ken. “Racing him over 2000m was not something I was initially going to do this campaign. It wasn’t that I didn’t think he could do it, but the focus was just on giving him some race experience and then getting him out over that sort of distance at his next preparation. “His previous run at Stony Creek was good. He got his head up at about the 1000 metre mark and it took him a little while to get into rhythm again and

he whacked away into third, but it was still a good effort at just his third run. “He has gone to the paddock now for a rest and I am sure he will develop even more and come back stronger,” said Ken. The following day, Ken had Iowna Gold engaged at Moonee Valley and despite racing very wide, he fought on well to be beaten by only ﬁve lengths. The three-year-old has run placings at his two previous starts and like Rael Rules is shaping as though he will appreciate a journey. A win is not too far away for this fellow either. Iowna Gold is by Made of Gold, the same sire as Fythe’s stable star, Rockpecker, and the trainer indicated a return to work is not too far away for the reigning Gippsland Horse of the Year. “He has spelled very well and is probably only a fortnight away from coming back into work,” said Fythe. Perhaps resumption in a race like the Sale Quality on February 7 is in the ofﬁng. While on Stony Creek trainers, well done to Tracey Josephs, who trained a double at Woolamai picnics on Saturday with High Kinglana and High Czarmonty – it was the fourth consecutive win for the latter.

Allambee Mirboo and District tennis HALLSTON and Leongatha North had a great match, with the ﬁrst ladies set won by Michelle and Kerri in a tie-breaker 11-9. Guilia and Susan were pleased again this week. Hallston won by a game, Leongatha North won an extra set. Koony, although winning 7-2, two tie-breaker sets in their favour, one tie-breaker to Leongatha. A good day’s tennis in both matches. Leongatha and Korrine declared a wash-out as the courts were very wet at the starting time. Baromi played Leongatha North, with a six game win to Baromi. The Northerners won two 7-5s. Berrys Creek won the match against Foster. The tie-breaker went their way too. Red, although winning

by two games, didn’t score as well as the losers. This same result happened in A Grade last week, not a result that happens very often. Baromi did well to win 7-2, a tie-breaker their way always helps of course. New names are coming up all the time, this is good for the association. Gold are the leaders in this section. Hallston have to be pleased with winning a set. Three tie-breakers against them didn’t make the set score look very good. Maroon had a 7-2 win against Korumburra. The win is keeping them in touch with the four.

Results A Grade: Koonwarra 7.68; Leongatha 2.48, Hallston 4.58, Leongatha North 5.57; Baromi - bye. A Reserve: Berrys Creek 8.51, Foster 1.26; Baromi 5.43, Leongatha

North 4.37; Leongatha v Korrine (wash-out); Koonwarra - bye. B Grade: Mardan Red 3.43, Koonwarra 6.41; Outtrim Gold 8.53, Hallston 1.39; Baromi 7.52, Leongatha 2.34; Outtrim Maroon 7.52, Korumburra 2.22; Mardan Blue- bye. LADDERS A Grade Koonwarra ...........................57.0 Hallston ................................50.5 Baromi ..................................44.0 Leongatha North ................43.0 Leongatha..............................24.5 A Reserve Berrys Creek........................68.5 Leongatha ............................53.0 Koonwarra ...........................48.0 Korrine .................................47.0 Leongatha North ...................33.5 Baromi...................................31.5 Foster.....................................23.5 B Grade Outtrim Gold .......................71.5 Baromi ..................................63.5 Mardan Red.........................51.5 Koonwarra ...........................51.0 Outtrim Maroon ....................42.5 Leongatha..............................33.5 Hallston .................................31.5 Mardan Blue..........................27.5 Korumburra ...........................21.5

Thomson shares glory days By Brad Lester

A FORMER Australian cricketer many believe to be one of the fastest bowlers in history was in Leongatha and Mirboo North last week. Jeff Thomson was reported as bowling at up to 180km/h during his prime in the 1970s. He starred in the Ashes series of 1974–75, taking 33 wickets. Former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd labelled Thomson as the fastest bowler he had ever seen. Thomson spoke at the Mirboo North Cricket Club last Monday week and then in Leongatha on Tuesday, as a fundraiser for the Imperials Cricket Club. The one-time wearer of a baggy green presented a humorous wrap-up of his cricketing career, life and anything else that came to mind. Thomson was pleased to be speaking at a grass roots level. “This is what I enjoy most, out of all the things I have done,” he said. While attributing his remarkable speed to a “bit of a different technique to everyone else”, Thomson remained secretive when

asked to elaborate. He addressed Imperials players and supporters as part of his day job – touring and speaking. The club’s Gary Sauvarin was delighted to be in the audience. “It’s a bit of a buzz hearing some of his stories from yesteryear,” he said. “We did not get as many people as we would

have hoped (40 attended) but it was still an entertaining evening.” Thomson was the opening partner of fellow fast bowler Dennis Lillee and together the pair created a feared partnership. Thomson re-entered the limelight in July when he criticised Australian captain Ricky Ponting. “He’s a great player but captaincy is a totally

different thing,” he was reported as saying by the UK newspaper, the Telegraph. “I couldn’t believe it when he’d been picked as captain. There was noone else to pick, but Ponting still had no experience. He’d only captained one side ever before. How did he get to lead Australia with that sort of experience?”

Memory lane: Imperials Cricket Club president Geof Forrester welcomes former Australian bowler Jeff Thomson to Leongatha.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - PAGE 59

Start of season success THERE was a bigger crowd than expected at the first Woolamai picnic horse race for the season. About 2000 people weren’t put off by morning rain and Toora-based trainer Tracey Josephs had a very successful meeting. She won the first race with High Kinglana, which she was racing for the first time, and with High Czarmonty in the fifth. Woolamai & District Racing Club president Robert Carmichael said organisers were rapt with the meeting. “We were absolutely thrilled with the amount of people. When you have groups booked they always seem to turn up,” he said. One highlight was the success of new permanent pavilions, which were completed on Friday.

They were booked out and received positive responses from patrons. The pavilions, which are sheds on a rise facing the track, replaced tents set-up by contractors. The club will drop to six meetings next season from seven this year. The race meeting was taken away as part of the drop in picnic races from 39 to 34 across Victoria. Racing authorities had wanted to reduce the number of races at Woolamai to four. “But we fought to make sure it never happened,” Mr Carmichael said. “With the way the picnic clubs performed last season they increased turnover by 42 per cent in Victoria, which staggered the powers that be, and the crowds were up around about the 35 per cent.” The club’s mid-December race

date was given to another club. This was replaced with December 27. Mr Carmichael said that date was unknown territory for the Woolamai club. “We’re not too sure how it will go,” he said. Mr Carmichael said he thought that picnic races in Gippsland would only get stronger and stronger. Mr Carmichael said the Woolamai club was ﬁnancially sound. “Our biggest problem in the future is getting people to come and do the volunteer jobs. “It’s getting hard because the health and safety bookwork is nearly crippling us.” The next race day at Woolamai is on December 6.

First home: High Kinglana is trained at Stony Creek by Tracey Josephs of Toora and ridden by Leigh Taylor. (above and below)

Prize position: Betty Merlin and Linda Watson (both from Wonthaggi) were ready for races to begin as they looked over the ﬁnishing post.

Right: Woolamai outing: back: Stuart Edden and Greg Wilson; front: Belinda Scott, Karyn Davies and Michael Wilson (all from Wonthaggi).

Right: Finished third: Stony Creek trainer Ken Fyfe unstraps Salt Shaker, which was ridden by Paul Koumis in the ﬁrst race.

Left: Picnic racing: Woolamai and District Racing Club president Robert Carmichael among the crowd during the club’s ﬁrst race of the season on Saturday.

Early victory: mother Terry and daughter and trainer Tracey Josephs with ﬁrst race winner High Kinglana and the horse part owner Mick Rogers.

PAGE 60 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, November 24, 2009

By Bert van Bedaf LOCAL equestrian clubs have received an assurance their Leongatha base will remain until an alternative site has been decided on. South Gippsland Shire Council has adopted a resolution that gives the clubs an annual licence, based on the current licence (conditions) when it expires in October next year, allowing them to stay at the Leongatha Equestrian Park in Tilson Court for the time being. The Leongatha Equestrian and Berrys Creek Pony Clubs, that hold the licence, and the Leongatha and District Centre for Riding for the Disabled use the park. The clubs want to develop the park and extend its existing lease for another 15 years, securing it as their future home. But this will now not be the case. Yvonne Morrison, representing Berrys Creek Pony Club and a foundation member of the Leongatha Equestrian Club, sought assurances that tenure was secured by entering into “a licence annually renewable until a new facility is in use”. Mayor Jim Fawcett said that was the spirit and intent of the resolution. He also assured her the steering committee to discuss future moves and developments surrounding a new location would include “representatives of the equestrian community”. Ms Morrison said she felt assured by Cr Fawcett’s comments. “I believe we can live with them,” Ms Morrison said. There is an on-going budget allowance of $146,226 in council’s 10-year capital works program, which begins in the 2010-11 ﬁnancial year. But the desired aim of council is to add Tilson Court to the Industrial Estate to provide economic growth and to build a future state-of-the-art equestrian park in Koonwarra to tap into the $5 billion equestrian industry Australia-wide. It wants to create a major regional horse riding centre comparable to such centres as in Werribee, which includes two showjumping arenas, stable blocks, sand dressage arenas, a cross country course including obstacles, amenities block, meeting and conference rooms, toilets and showers. The pressures for such a hub increased markedly in mid October, when a team representing the Leongatha and District Equestrian Club won the Top Teams Trophy Showjumping at Werribee. That means the LDEC will host next year’s Top Teams

Heidi Lancaster: the netball technical ofﬁcial will travel to Delhi, India to do her bit for the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

Showjumping, likely to attract hundreds of riders from all over Victoria. LDEC committee president Dolly Joyce, said the event will have to be hosted at a venue that can cater for it. “It also has to be somewhere central.” She has mixed feelings about moving the Leongatha Equestrian Park. “Changing the venue would disrupt the Riding for Disabled Association. It’s very popular.” Ms Joyce could not estimate the numbers of people in South Gippsland involved in riding, but there are very many. There are four different disciplines in top team competition: showjumping, horse trials, combined training and dressage; the championships held at different times of the year. During council’s discussions, sustainability director Andrew McEwen commented, “We have an opportunity to place a national standard facility elsewhere in the shire.” Cr Warren Raabe moved the resolution clearly with the future plans in mind. He said Tilson Court was “too valuable a site for the community. The hill (industrial estate) is basically full. We need new expansion.” The message to the club was, he said, “We want to give you something better and also provide more employment opportunities in Leongatha.” Councillors have allowed the club to build a shed on the site, providing they will remove the shed at their own expense when the licence is terminated. Cr Jennie Deane also saw potential in new facilities. “It is important we have a vision on state-of-theart facilities in the future,” Cr Deane said. “People are expecting high quality amenities. We want to attract more tourists and they want high quality. Whether it is Koonwarra or any other site, we have to aim for high-quality facilities. Council has committed funding in its 2010-11 budget process “to prepare concept plans for the development of the equestrian facility at council’s Koonwarra site and for the future use of the Tilson Court site, Leongatha.” The decision was not unanimous. Councillors David Lewis preferred to use Tilson Court as a buffer zone, which residents favoured, and Bob Newton believed Koonwarra as a potential new site was too far from pony clubs in Nyora and Korumburra. “There has been talk about industrial development, but townspeople see it as a buffer area between the industrial estate and the town. It could be residential land,” Cr Lewis said.

“If you leave out Koonwarra, I could support it,” Cr Newton said. “This is pushed by the (council) ofﬁcers. We have large pony clubs in Korumburra and Nyora. You are making people travel more, while towing horse ﬂoats.”

Heidi hits the heights By Matt Dunn HEIDI Lancaster is about to tackle the next phase of her sporting life, with selection to the Commonwealth Games ‘technical official’ team in 2010. The Games will be held in Delhi, India in October. The 29-year-old former Leongatha resident will be part of the group helping to keep score, keep time and record statistics for netball matches. “I just found out this week. It’s really exciting. It was a very nice surprise,” she said. “I officiate for the national netball competition. There will be 15 travelling to Delhi from around the world. I know of only three other Australians. “I did the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, but they focused more on selecting Australians for that. For Delhi, anyone from around the world who was qualified was able to apply. So the international netball body selected

us. I know a lot of people applied through Netball Australia and they selected a certain number.” Heidi took to ofﬁciating and coaching after she was involved in a horror road accident when she was just 18. She has not played the game since, but wanted to stay involved in the sport she loved. “I haven’t actually played since then. I began scoring for Gippsland in the state league when I couldn’t play. I got asked to do the national comp, which is now the national comp between Australia and New Zealand. I do the international matches too, when they’re in Melbourne,” Heidi said. “It’s been great, because you don’t always get lots of opportunities to be a part of the game when you don’t play. That’s very special to me.” Despite not being able to play, Heidi said her love of netball had not diminished, nor has her love of helping children embrace athletic pursuits. “I’m very heavily involved. I’m a teacher, so I teach the kids sport at school as well,” she said. A Grade 6 teacher at St Kilda Park Primary School in Albert Park, Heidi has been an educator

for four years. But her involvement with children began well before that. “I’ve worked with kids at camps, sports coaching…I’ve always been involved with sports and recreation,” she said. Heidi said the schoolchildren at her primary school had been excited by the announcement of her trip to India. She sees many of the children outside of school, which is partly thanks to her partner, Sam, who is one of the coaches for the Melbourne Tigers Basketball team. The club’s junior division has a large number of the school’s students in its ranks. “They were all really excited,” she said. Heidi will travel with the technical ofﬁcials, in a separate contingent to the athletes – staying at a ‘technical ofﬁcials’ village. Fortuitously, the Games is scheduled not long after Victoria’s school holidays. “I’m going to head off two weeks early, and do some sightseeing. So I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.