The Great Southern Star - October 27, 2009

Published at Leongatha for South Gippsland

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

$1.20 The Great Southern

PAGES 18 & 19

Star

INSIDE

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2009 Page 11

--

PUBLISHED TUESDAY 64 PAGES

Page 55

Better buses

Muck-up day

Back page

500 not out

Pole volts us into darkness

A FATIGUED driver caused a major power outage in Leongatha when he crashed his car on Sunday afternoon.

Power to approximately 1900 Leongatha properties was cut from 4.30pm yesterday, following the accident in Roughead St. Most places had the power back by 5.05pm, although some had to wait until well past dark for the lights to come back on.

A 37-year-old Sale man will be summonsed to appear in court in relation to the accident.

There were children in the car, but no one was hurt.

Police believe the man was suffering from fatigue.

Photos courtesy Gerard Bruning www.fourcornersframing.biz

TRAGIC DAYS Two dead within 48 hours in South Gippsland crashes

By Matt Dunn A TRAGIC 48 hours has left two drivers dead after accidents in Hallston and Leongatha North.

A 21-year-old man from Leongatha was killed in the early hours of Sunday morning when a four-wheel-drive tipped over and crushed him on a Hallston property.

Emergency crews were called out again yesterday afternoon when a car driven by a Morwell woman crashed into a semi-trailer on the Strzelecki Highway. The woman was killed in the collision.

Sunday’s accident involved three men, who were four-wheel-driving up a steep embankment on a private property at around 1.40am.

The site, which is known as the “gravel

pit,” is at the corner of Yarragon-Leongatha Road and Pitt Road in Hallston.

It is a popular place four-wheel-driving and dirt bike riding, regularly drawing complaints from residents for the noise created.

Leongatha Police’s Leading Senior Constable Andy Boldiston attended the scene.

Continued on page 7.

Fatal crash: a Morwell woman died yesterday.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

THAILAND ON SALE

Top of the class: (Back row from left) David Bruce (GippsTAFE Leongatha campus manager), Jesse Poulton, Grace Rounds, Aidan Delaney, Helen Lechte (Chisholm Bass Coast campus manager). Front row: Trent Hopkins, Randy Booth, Kristy-Lee Jones and Taryn Comben.

Bangkok Baiyoke Sky Hotel

1,065

$

*

per person twin share

from

Includes: Return economy airfare from Melbourne to Bangkok flying Thai Airways International. 4 nights for the price of 3 in a Deluxe room. Late check-out to 6pm.

Travel: 26 Oct – 19 Nov 09 & 24 Jan – 26 Mar 10.

Phuket Andaman Beach Suites

1 FRE NIGHTE

1,225

$

*

from

per person twin share

Includes: Return economy airfare from Melbourne to Phuket flying Thai Airways International via Bangkok. 10 nights for the price of 6 in a Standard Mini Suite. Full breakfast daily. One FREE dinner or 30 minute Thai massage for 2 adults. Travel: 26 Oct – 15 Nov 09.

4 FREE Additional travel dates: Add $165* extra per person N IGHTS twin share for travel 24 Jan – 26 Mar 10.

Koh Samui Centara Villas Samui

1,305

*

$

from

per person twin share

Includes: Return economy airfare from Melbourne to Koh Samui flying Thai Airways International via Bangkok. 10 nights for the price of 5 in a Garden Villa. Full breakfast daily. Travel: 1 – 19 Nov 09.

5 FRE Additional travel dates: Add $260* extra per person NIGHTE twin share for travel 24 Jan – 26 Mar 10.

S

Phuket Centara Karon Resort

1,385

$

*

per person twin share

from

Includes: Return economy airfare from Melbourne to Phuket flying Thai Airways International via Bangkok. 10 nights for the price of 5 in a Superior room. Full breakfast daily. Travel: 1 – 19 Nov 09.

Additional travel dates: Add $70* extra per person twin share for travel 24 Jan – 26 Mar 10.

Phuket Centara Villas Phuket

5 FRE NIGHTE S

1,539

$

*

per person twin share

from

Includes: Return economy airfare from Melbourne to Phuket flying Thai Airways International via Bangkok. 10 nights for the price of 5 in a Deluxe Villa. Full breakfast daily. Travel: 1 – 19 Nov 09.

5 FRE Additional travel dates: Add $80* extra per person NIGHTE S twin share for travel 24 Jan – 26 Mar 10.

Koh Samui Bandara Resort & Spa

1,545

$

from

*

per person twin share

Includes: Return economy airfare from Melbourne to Koh Samui flying Thai Airways International via Bangkok. 10 nights for the price of 5 in a Superior room. Full breakfast daily. Travel: 26 Oct – 19 Nov 09.

Additional travel dates: Add $315* extra per person 5 FRE twin share for travel 24 Jan – 26 Mar 10.

NIG E

HTS

Availability is limited. Offer ends 1 Nov 09, unless sold out prior.

We sell travel insurance ~ underwritten by QBE .

13 63 83 jetset.com.au

*Conditions Apply: Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary. Prices correct at 20 Oct 2009 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Amounts payable to third parties not included. Offers subject to availability. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant before booking. Valid for economy travel on selected dates as specified. Offer ends as specified unless sold out prior. These ratings are Viva! Holidays’ view, not official ratings. ~The insurer is QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035, of 82 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000. We receive a commission for policies sold. Policies are only valid upon acceptance of payment by the insurer. Please read the PDS available from QBE Insurance before deciding whether to purchase a product. Standard FlyBuys terms and conditions apply and are available at flybuys.com.au. Valid at participating agencies. See in store for details. To be eligible for this offer, members must present their FlyBuys card and mention this offer at time of booking and payment. FlyBuys points are not awarded on taxes, fees and surcharges. Jetset Travelworld Limited - Travel Agents License 2TA5361. ABN 60091214998.

TWD0230/LGSS/WK2

Best and brightest TWO South Gippsland Year 12 students have received an early boost to their tertiary education by being awarded a Young Community Leader’s Scholarship.

Jesse Poulton from Newhaven College and Kristy-Lee Jones from Korumburra Secondary College were joint winners of the scholarship presented by the Southern and Coastal TAFE Alliance, which is a partnership between GippsTAFE Leongatha and Chisholm Institute Bass Coast.

The Scholarship is normally awarded to one secondary school student in South Gippsland, but this year the judges could not separate Jesse and KristyLee and awarded each a $2000 scholarship.

The award is intended to encourage further education at TAFE or university and the scholarship may be spent on anything relating to tertiary study, such as tuition fees, textbooks or a laptop computer.

Seven secondary colleges were represented in the final of the award, which was presented last week at a special function at the RACV Inverloch Resort.

The other five finalists were Randy Booth from South Coast Christian College, Trent Hopkins from Wonthaggi Secondary College, Grace Rounds from Leongatha Secondary College, Aidan Delaney from Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College and Taryn Comben from South Gippsland Secondary College.

Each received a certificate and $100.

Kristy-Lee Jones has taken on a number of leadership roles at her school, including four years involve-

ment in the SRC, work as a peer mediator and house captain. She has also represented the college in many forums such as Lions Youth of the Year, Legacy Public Speaking competition, World Vision conference and Youth Summit at the University of Melbourne.

In 2007 she was accepted into the prestigious Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars program at the University of Melbourne.

A keen sportswoman, Kristy-Lee has represented the college with distinction, having participated in netball, athletics, swimming and cross country to Southern Zone level. She was awarded Best and Fairest in the Leongatha and District Netball Association in 2007 and runner-up in 2008. As well she is a regular blood donor and has a personal goal of donating 100 times.

Jesse Poulton is Newhaven School Captain this year and participates in a range of co-curricular activities including Gippsland Independent Schools’athletics, swimming, cross country and debating events.

He also plays football and

Winning smile: Kristy-Lee Jones is congratulated by proud parents Greg and Sharon. cricket for Leongatha.

Having completed two successful years raising funds for the 40 Hour Famine Project, Jesse was selected as the 2009 World Vision - Victorian Youth Ambassador. As the state representative for the pro-

gram, Jesse has travelled extensively, engaging and enthusing school students, parents, teachers and politicians with an awareness and compassion for the great work of World Vision to reduce poverty.

Well done: Jesse Poulton and parents Gabrielle and Phil are all smiles after his win.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 3

Hospitals’ poor health

By Chris Brown and Brad Lester PATIENTS are waiting in ambulances for up to four hours for an emergency department bed at South Gippsland’s major hospital.

The problems at Wonthaggi hospital have been revealed by The Star as Leongatha prepares for a public meeting to save the town’s crumbling hospital buildings.

The meeting will be held next month after local community leaders decided they had to put an end to state government inaction on the facility amid fears it may close down without a public campaign to save it.

While the future remains doubtful at Leongatha Memorial Hospital, day-to-day operations at Wonthaggi are causing major concerns for paramedics and, more importantly, patients.

The four hour delays to admit emergency ward patients is happening every second day according to the general secretary of Ambulance Employees Victorian Division, Steve McGhie.

“It’s been going on for about eight months and clearly the hospital doesn’t have enough beds and staff to cope with the through put of patients,” he said.

“The further concern is that come March, with the desalination plant construction starting, another 2000 workers are going to come into the area and the ambos

are concerned about the increase in people attending the hospital and delays.”

Mr McGhie said if an emergency comes in and the ambos are tied up at the hospital there could be a delayed response.

“If an emergency case comes in they have to force their way to offload the patient, so it will cause a delay,” he said.

“The fundamental issue is that patients can be compromised, with lengthy delays and gridlock in the system.”

Bass Coast Regional Health Chief Executive Officer Lea Pope said there were times when ambulances needed to wait.

“On an average day there will be four hours when our trolleys are full in our emergency department and our emergency short stay unit is also full,” she said.

Sometimes this is caused by patients waiting for ambulances to transport them to another hospital.

Renovations at Wonthaggi hospital will increase the number of emergency department trolleys from four to six.

This work should be completed before Christmas and the busy summer holiday period.

The Wonthaggi Medical Group has also commenced a GP clinic in hospital consulting rooms.

It will give non-urgent patients the option of seeing a GP rather than waiting.

Concerns over the future of the decrepit Leongatha Memorial Hospital have escalated in recent

times, with fears growing that it could be closed.

That’s the message being delivered by worried South Gippslanders to the Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Darryl McGannon.

“People are certainly concerned for the future of the hospital,” he said.

“We have lost funding for it before so there is no doubt the government needs to spend money up there, but money just does not seem to be coming our way.”

The chamber and Leongatha Progress Association hope to meet with Gippsland Southern Health Service management soon, to discuss issues.

The hospital is plagued by leaking hot water pipes, poor electrical wiring, an old asbestos pipe running around the buildings, small theatres, cramped chemotherapy space and poor emergency section.

The health service board could meet with Victorian Health Minister Daniel Andrews as early as next week, to plead their case yet again.

That meeting is now being arranged by Gippsland South MLA Peter Ryan, a staunch supporter of a new hospital for Leongatha, who is not giving up hope.

“One way or the other, I’m telling you, this new hospital will be built,” he said.

A public meeting will be held at a yet to be determined date in November in a bid to step up the campaign for funding. Mr Ryan

will be at that meeting.

“I can well understand if the community wants to make this public. The government has made a commitment to the hospital in the past and there is a clear demonstrable need for it,” he said.

The community action was instigated by a joint meeting of the association and chamber recently, regarding the state of the hospital.

South Gippsland Shire Council has also backed the community effort.

Leongatha Progress Association president Michael Flynn said the group would now seek a meeting with hospital management to learn of the state of the hospital and the preferred future direction.

“Then we will start to roll the boat out, otherwise we will do more damage than good,” he said.

Gippsland Southern Health Service CEO Gary Templeton told The Star yesterday that the board had “made its case forcefully, but the reality is, to date we haven’t succeeded.

“That puts the issue more firmly in the political arena.”

Mr Flynn hoped a strong community campaign would be the final effort needed to convince the State Government to build a new hospital.

“We’ve got to the second rung in achieving things financially a couple of times and we’ve just been pipped,” he said.

“We need to know why this is happening, why other hospitals are getting first priority and why we are getting second.

Special display: Laura Connell, Beth Parrish, Amber Merigan and Sharri Jacobson with one of Beth’s artworks.

Drumsticks and paintings KFC Leongatha hosted a special display of artwork on Friday.

GippsTAFE Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) students’ paintings, assemblages and collages adorned the walls of the outdoor eating area for the day.

The art on show was produced by local students working with renowned local artist Renae Carmody throughout the year.

It was Renae’s idea for the art to

be displayed at KFC. “Some of the students work at KFC and it’s where they are familiar and comfortable,” she said.

“The students reflect the youth of today and they don’t want their work in an art gallery, but where it is happening and they can socialise and eat.”

Through their art the students are revealing themselves.

“These are kids who haven’t had a lot of art experience, so it’s taken a lot of time to build up the confi-

dence in what they’ve done,” Renae said.

One of the students, Beth Parrish said during the course she learnt that it is possible to draw anything you want if you put your mind to it.

Amber Merigan said she felt like she couldn’t do the art at the start.

“Then Renae helped me heaps and I did really well in the end,” she said.

The compulsory art unit was also a challenge for some students.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Signs out of time

By Bert van Bedaf SOUTH Gippsland Shire planning department is finally taking the axe to illegal signs in the farming zone.

Planning officers informed councillors of their decision to take action at the planning committee meeting of Monday, October 19, after they had conducted a sign audit and identified 28 signs.

Council’s manager planning and building, Chris Wightman has put a deadline on the removal of signs.

Owners of the signs and the landowners where the signs are located, will be notified this week. They are required to remove the signs within 28 days from the date of the notice or possibly face a fine.

“A growing build up of signage on private property across the shire and associated complaints have prompted South Gippsland Shire Council to take action on illegal signage,” Mr Wightman said.

“Property owners and businesses with signs in the farming zone will be contacted and asked to remove signs in 28 days to avoid enforcement action, which could incur a fine. In some cases, signage may be permitted but requires a permit.”

The signage issue in the farming zone first emerged during a council meeting on May 21, 2008, when billboards by Peter Notman, advertising Notman pasture seeds, were discussed.

At that meeting councillors resolved that they would note the report by strategic planning officer Ken Griffith, called Advertising signs in the farming zone, but they did not adopt any further action.

Mr Notman was present at that meeting and asked whether the dairy signs on farm gates were legal or required a permit.

Mr Wightman said last Friday that the dairy signs were considered “directional signage for

Notman signs: council discussed the Notman seed signs 18 months ago. the milk tankers and an essential part to ensure traffic safety” and therefore allowable. “They are okay in the farming zone.”

No immediate council action transpired from the May meeting, but recent signs berating council over its attitude towards the State Government’s C48 planning amendment, which bans dwellings on land less than 40ha in the farming zone, may have accelerated the response.

The “Sold Out” signs seen in the shire will be coming under scrutiny.

Council appointed a planning enforcement and compliance officer last March to create an enforcement plan. The officer, Stuart Green has taken hold of the issue, which has now come to a head.

Cr Jennie Deane said she was comfortable with the present outcome, although in May she had reservations about taking action. She also agreed that the enforcement measures required no further council decision because it was an “operational matter” dealt with by council officers.

“I had three concerns last year. I did not believe the owners of the signs had been given enough notice that action was about to be taken,” Cr Deane said.

“There were other signs that were not targeted and there was an allegation that neighbouring councils were more lenient than we were.”

Since then she had become aware that other councils have become less lenient.

Kids have their day

BASS Coast Children’s Provider Network held an event to celebrate Children’s Week at Chisholm Institute in Wonthaggi on Saturday.

Children’s entertainment: the great Luigi Zucchini was making balloon creations for these eager youngsters.

Bass Coast Shire Council’s Community Services manager, Liz Wright, said Children’s Week celebrates the right of children to enjoy childhood.

“Children’s Week is a national event recognising the talents, skills, achievements and rights of young people.

“It’s based on the articles in the United Nations Convention on the Right of the Child, highlighting play, wellbeing and protection.”

Chisholm childcare students ran activities like face painting, mask making, craft, summer safety activities, storytelling and a puppet show.

Green thumb: George Blum (Glen Forbes) was planting some seeds at the Chisholm festivities.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 5

Road shame spurs council

By Brad Lester COUNCILS will continue to lobby for the crumbling Bass Highway to be upgraded.

South Gippsland and Bass Coast shire councils have vowed to pursue the State Government for adequate funding, after $4.36 million for other local roadworks was announced last week.

Ruts, unsealed shoulders and narrow stretches on the Bass Highway between Leongatha to Anderson near Phillip Island are risking motorists’ safety.

Traffic volume on the thoroughfare continues to rise as the region’s population climbs and tourists continue to visit.

The road is expected to come under more pressure from trucks now construction of the desalination plant has begun.

South Gippsland’s director of infrastructure Anthony Seabrook said the Bass Highway warranted urgent attention.

“It’s a ‘B Grade’ road but is yet to be brought up to B Grade standard. VicRoads hopes the works will be done in five years,” he said.

Bass Coast’s acting director of infrastructure Felicity Sist said the highway between Inverloch and Wonthaggi was in a “poor state”.

“There are potholes in the road and they will only get worse with the amount of traffic and visitors we are getting here,” she said.

Council is also concerned by the narrow road and few passing opportunities between Wonthaggi and Anderson, Ms Sist said.

“The area is growing and we need a better standard of road,” she said.

Next month, VicRoads will undertake $50,000 worth of remedial works on the highway between Leongatha and Inverloch, after recent rain caused some sections to sag.

The State Government last week announced $17.6 million to upgrade roads in Gippsland.

That will include road maintenance works on Korumburra-Wonthaggi Road south of Korumburra ($421,000), Korumburra-Warragul Road ($398,000), 10km north of Korumburra, and the South Gippsland Highway through Korumburra township ($250,000).

Works are all scheduled to start early in the new year and expected to take a month to complete.

A further $3.3 million will be spent on upgrading the Mirboo North-Trafalgar Road to reduce run-off-road crashes, after community concerns about the high incidence of crashes.

“Mirboo North-Trafalgar Road carries around 1500 vehicles each day, 13 per cent of which are commercial vehicles,” Eastern Region MLC Matt Viney said.

“This road is an important link between Trafalgar and the Strzelecki Highway and these safety improvements will increase protection from roadside hazards for motorists.

“The pavement width at some road bends will also be increased to reduce head-on crashes, while improved warning signage will enhance the ability for drivers to navigate the road.”

The works will improve the efficiency of companies reliant on quality roads, such as dairy co-operative, Murray Goulburn.

MG’s regional transport manager Brad Close said: “Any improvements made will be beneficial to us as road users, with safety being our primary objective - that of the driver and other road users.”

The government will also spend $3.7 million trialling a centreline wire rope safety barriers on the South Gippsland Highway at Koo Wee Rup between Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road and Sybella Avenue.

“The trial is a first for Victoria, with the wire rope safety barrier installed along the centreline of the undivided road,” Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas said.

“This project will improve safety for motorists by reducing the occurrence and severity of head-on and run-offroad type incidents.”

VicRoads Eastern Region director, Patricia Liew, said the latest roll-out of road projects was part of VicRoads’ ongoing commitment to improve and expand roads in eastern Victoria.

“The funding announcement for works in the 2009-2010 State Budget was up significantly from the same period last year, from $10.6 million to $17.6 million for Gippsland and surrounding region,” she said.

“The works are prioritised by ongoing monitoring, evaluation and consultation by VicRoads to ensure the best service to people who live locally.”

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Dumbalk CFA rides high THE Dumbalk CFA is close to adding a light tanker to its arsenal of fire fighting equipment, after the town swung behind its efforts to raise $22,000.

Among the bigger donations was a horse, which was auctioned at a “Night at the Races” themed party on Saturday, October 17 at Dumbalk Hall.

The auctioned horse – donated by Margaret Gillies - helped tip the total close to the magical mark, but it was not the only example of grand generosity.

The weekend before the auction, the Dumbalk and District Progress Association held a successful Garden Walk Afternoon Tea, with more than 100 people visiting seven gardens in Dumbalk. The tea included afternoon tea and the drawing of door prizes.

Dumbalk CFA captain Walter Aich said the brigade was “close to reaching our targets for our tanker.

“With a bit of luck we’ll be within $1000, if not having reached our target,” he said.

The $22,000 will allow the brigade to apply for a light tanker in the next round of the Community Safety Emergency Support Program (CSESP).

A light tanker is a small 4WD tanker (1200 litres of water) that will increase the flexibility and efficiency of the brigade, both within its community and surrounds and during campaign efforts during bushfire emergencies, Mr Aich said.

Margaret’s husband, Max Fletcher, was part of the brigade’s fundraising committee.

“The donation of the horse was pretty much on the table from the first meeting. So we knew we’d have that

for the auction. We’re really grateful Margaret offered that. The successful bidder comes from Mardan and I know they were really happy,” Walter said.

“It’s an unbroken filly, and she was about 12-and-a-half hands. It’s ideal for someone in their middle teens, a not very big bodied person who could ride very well, someone looking for a nice looking horse for dressage and those sorts of event.

“The horse will have the ability to bring the rider to a higher level of competition, from a junior level. Potentially, the horse is very valuable.

Apparently Margaret had offers much higher than it was sold for at our auction.”

The “Night at the Races” event was a busy one, and included the presentation of a 25 Year CFA Service Award to Robert Heppell.

Walter, who presented the award, said it was good to “publicly recognise the dedicated service and contribution made by Robert to the CFA and the broader community”.

The “Night at the Races” was presented by Murder Company, and supported by the Morningside Pony Stud, Alex Scott and Staff, Tarwin Veterinary Group, SEJ, Great Southern Outdoors, Dumbalk Village Store and Dumbalk Murray Goulburn.

“It’s community events and efforts such as these that bring us all together, creating an atmosphere for better understanding and inclusiveness,” Walter said.

Above: Blooming marvellous: Bec Hansen (Ferntree Gully), Cheryl Bertrand (Tarwin Lower) and Chris Oliver (Dumbalk) admire detailed espalier of a crab apple tree.

Well done mate: volunteer firefighter Robert Heppell receives his 25 Year Service Award from Dumbalk CFA Brigade captain Walter Aich.

V/Line has a new coach timetable from Monday 9 November 2009

A new coach timetable has been produced for services travelling between Melbourne, Leongatha, Yarram, Dandenong, Cowes and Inverloch.

In some cases coach arrival and departure times have changed by up to 30 minutes.

Coach travel routes and stops have not changed.

Check the new times online at vline.com.au/timetables, or pick-up a copy at staffed V/Line train stations and ticket agents from early November.

Train times in the region are not affected by the coach changes.

The changes will take effect from Monday, 9 November.

Passengers can also phone 136 196 for more information.

Call 136 196 vline.com.au V/Line Passenger Pty Ltd ABN 29 087 425 269

Ref: 24980VLN

Ride on: Marriotts’ Brenton Gilligan with Honda Victoria Territory manager Rohan Kemp.

Trying that equipment MARRIOTT’S Motorcycles & Power Equipment held a spring demo day on Saturday.

The Leongatha store hosted representatives from Greenfield, Husqvarna, Honda, Stihl, Spitwater and Toro.

It was a great opportunity for South Gippslanders to see the huge range of products that are available from Marriotts.

There were also giveaways and a sausage sizzle.

Demo day: Franky Filomeno (Leongatha) and Justin Mileta (Bena) were at the Marriott’s event.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 7

High dollar dairy pain

By Chris Brown THE high Australian dollar is causing more pain for the region’s dairy farmers.

Rising prices for dairy products on the world market are being partly offset by our soaring currency.

The ABC Online quoted MG general manager of international sales and marketing Mal Baniston as saying that the high dollar had swept tens of millions of dollars of potential export revenue from the company’s books.

Murray Goulburn chairman Ian MacAulay said the higher dollar was making it harder to get returns for their farmers.

“But having said that, the prices for dairy products on export dollars have been running ahead of the US exchange rate, so farmers are going to be better off at the moment,” he said.

Exports are about 55 per cent of Murray Goulburn’s business.

Domestically, prices have been a lot more stable.

“Prices on the domestic market didn’t rise to the same extent as the export market and they’ve maintained prices fairly well,” Mr MacAulay said.

Despite the higher Australian dollar, Murray Goulburn suppliers are more likely to receive a milk price increase than a drop.

Mr MacAulay said the co-operative’s board makes its decision on pricing and then it is announced.

“It’s looking promising,” he said.

The higher Australian dollar is unlikely to affect production at Murray Goulburn’s Leongatha factory.

Mr MacAulay said a significant amount of product from Leongatha, such as spreads and UHT milk, was made for the domestic market.

High quality products made at the factory for export were less volatile

At the scene: Ruby CFA captain Darren Hardacre directs traffic at the scene of the fatality on the Strzelecki Highway.

Tragic days Continued from page 1.

“The car got stuck about three-quarters of the way up and the young fella who was in the passenger seat has got out and tried to back the vehicle down.

As a result the vehicle’s rolled over and he’s unfortunately been killed,” Leading Snr Const. Boldiston said.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re trying to do the right thing by not being on the road. You’ve still got to be careful.

“If you want to go four-wheel-driving, take someone who has experience. In the end it’s private property, and we can’t really do much.”

He said he was a “little bit frustrated” that the accident had occurred, especially as another fatality happened in Hallston in May. Leading Snr Const Boldiston said a “lack of experience” may have played a part in the tragedy.

The man was “partially ejected” through the open front window of the 1985 Toyota Land Cruiser before it came down upon him.

“He was crushed as a result of the rollover. Ambulance attended but he died at the scene. It’s unfortunate, there’s no doubt about it,” Leading Snr Const Boldiston said.

The accident occurred on a friend’s property.

The vehicle was registered and apparently roadworthy. The police’s major collision mechanics will examine the vehicle to ensure there were no hidden faults.

“The young fella’s only 21-years-old and so didn’t have a lot of experience in driving. It was dark, so he may not have been able to see exactly where he was going, so perhaps that’s why the vehicle slipped,” he said.

Police, CFA and SES worked until about 5.30am at the site.

Yesterday’s collision on the Strzelecki Highway in Leongatha North at 1.50pm saw the Volkswagen vehicle clip a grain truck, resulting in the car crashing into the embankment.

The accident happened at Crightons Hill, about four kilometres from Leongatha, which has claimed several lives in the past.

The truck driver was uninjured. A little dog was rescued from the woman’s car.

Shaken and his fur covered in glass, the little animal was taken away by a veterinarian.

The woman apparently veered across the double lines while driving towards Leongatha.

The oncoming tanker tried to avoid her but apparently made contact and the woman crashed her car into the embankment.

The highway was blocked. CFA and SES units from Leongatha attended as well a CFA crew from Ruby.

on world markets.

Burra Foods CEO Grant Crothers said the high Australian dollar was bad news for any exporter.

“It’s just a matter of managing risk and reducing your exposure so in the upswing you don’t get caught out and in the downswing, whenever that may be, you have some opportunity to take advantage,” he said.

The US dollar is declining against many currencies, so the country importing product is an important consideration.

“It’s all about the destination country’s relativity to the US dollar and their ability to pay for products,” Mr Crothers said.

“So your revenue on Aussie dollar basis is lower, but if the destination country has also appreciated against the US dollar they can afford to pay a bit more.

“Some countries are pegged against the US dollar so they are weakening.”

Mr Crothers said the broad generic indicator was that a one cent increase in the Aussie dollar against the US accounts for 10 cents on a milk solids basis.

“There’s been some significant increases in world dairy prices in the past three months,” he said.

“When you dampen that with the currency, that won’t have as big an effect on the milk price as one would like.”

Dairy Livestock Services manager Scott Lord, said the high Australian dollar was impacting companies exporting heifers overseas.

“Fortunately at this point in time it hasn’t been passed through to our Australian producers. It has been absorbed by the exporters,” he said.

“All of the exporters are chasing cattle as there are not a lot of cattle available, so the exporters are having to keep prices up to maintain supply.”

Meanwhile it was also reported

last week that Murray Goulburn’s Leongatha factory had a 10.51 per cent drop in milk received last month compared to September 2008.

Mr MacAulay said it was disappointing, but not totally unexpected.

“It’s been a good season, but with the lower milk prices there’s been a trend to feed less concentrates to cows and that’s had an impact on cow production and there’s also been some people retiring from the industry and that’s had some impact,” he said.

At this stage there is no change in staffing levels at the Leongatha factory.

“We will have to see how it pans out,” Mr MacAulay said.

“I think there’s now a good season at Maffra and the central parts of Gippsland and we are expecting a very strong spring production.”

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

Council’s awkward truce

By Bert van Bedaf WARRING couple Paul Richardson and Cr Warren Raabe have agreed on an awkward truce after last Wednesday night’s council meeting.

The self-styled C48 Community Watchdog has been haunting South Gippsland Shire Council with a long list of questions on the controversial State Government amendment that bans building dwellings on land less than 40ha in the farming zone.

The former City of Casey councillor has spearheaded a highly personalised campaign, while assisting an affected landowner, Ken Irwin. Mr Richardson owns a property in Korumburra and is a shire ratepayer.

Cr Raabe and Mr Richardson clashed at a council meeting in Mirboo North on October 7.

After an interjection by Mr Richardson, Cr Raabe shouted “Excuse me, sir”, at the combative campaigner, turning the meeting into a rowdy affair.

Last Wednesday night, Mr Richardson addressed council’s code of conduct and “the unprofessional behaviour of Cr Warren Raabe, shouting at a ratepayer at the recent council meeting on October 7

Peace in our time: Cr Raabe hesitated for a moment, but eventually decided to accept the offer of a handshake from Paul Richardson.

at Mirboo North”. He demanded that “Cr Raabe forward a written apology to me by post.”

“Careful what you’re about to say. I won’t allow you to attack a councillor by way of demanding an apology,” Mayor Fawcett said.

Mr Richardson said he asked what

action council would take, since he believed Cr Raabe had breached the code of conduct on several grounds.

Cr Fawcett said council would take no action, because he believed Cr Raabe’s response had been restrained.

Cr Raabe responded he was happy to talk with Mr Richardson in the presence

of the press after the meeting.

Sitting opposite each other, they exchanged an awkward conversation.

“I don’t expect you to give an apology. I’m happy to let it go and keep the peace in the chamber,” Mr Richardson said. There was argument over who interjected whom, with both talking over

the other man, before Cr Raabe asked why Mr Richardson came to South Gippsland shire council meetings.

Mr Richardson said he was looking into the C48 planning amendment and how it affected “the 15,419 property owners in the shire”.

“Who brought it (amendment) in?” Cr Raabe asked, implying that the amendment was introduced by Planning Minister Justin Madden and not by council.

But Mr Richardson had other ideas.

He said at length that Mr Hulls (previous planning minister Rob Hulls) had introduced it before Mr Madden took it over.

“You are on your soapbox,” Cr Raabe replied.

“Don’t be rude,” Richardson retorted.

“You have this wrong. The C48 amendment was introduced by Mr Madden. Do some reading and come back to council with an informed position,” Cr Raabe said.

At that point Mr Richardson returned to his starting point that he was prepared to start afresh and offered to shake hands on the truce.

Cr Raabe hesitated momentarily, having reservations, but took Mr Richardson’s hand, sealing what will continue to be an uncomfortable relationship.

Surf’s up: riding imaginary waves were Elijah, Casey, Bethany and Hope.

Tropical kids OUTRAGEOUSLY bright shirts and leis added a touch of tropicana at Inverloch Primary School last Wednesday, all in the name of charity.

Staff and students dressed to a tropical theme to raise $280 towards tsunami victims in Samoa and Tonga.

Funds collected were donated to the Australian Red Cross emergency relief appeal, as part of fundraising efforts by the Bass Coast Board Riders Club.

Club member John Gemmill worked with the school’s Student Representative Council to arrange the casual clothes day. His son Elijah studies at the school.

The Gemmills were staying and surfing on the Samoan island of Upolu, which was hit by the tsunami, just a fortnight before disaster struck. “We had planned to go there during the school holidays but I could not get time off work and we had to go earlier,” Mr Gemmill said.

“Our kids made friends with the local people and you feel something like the tsunami when you know how fantastic the people are.”

He urged South Gippslanders to help the Samoans and Tongans return to a normal life by visiting and supporting the countries’ tourism industries.

“A lot of it is still beautiful and the accommodation should be back together soon,” Mr Gemmill said.

The board riders club’s broader appeal will also help earthquake victims in Indonesia.

People wishing to donate to the Red Cross appeal can do so by making a deposit at any branch of the Commonwealth Bank.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 9

Tower plan cut down

By Bert van Bedaf SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council knocked back a planning application by telecommunications giant Optus to build a controversial 50-metre tower in Hughes St, Leongatha.

Council refused the application at last Wednesday’s meeting, accepting planning recommendations that the tower is too high, which was affecting the “long-term visual impacts of the town”. Initially, Optus had proposed a 55-metre tower.

Senior planner David Hughes, of global consultant Aurecon, and Greg Kontekakis, Optus project manager Melbourne area, were at the council meeting. While Mr Kontekakis remained silent, Mr Hughes addressed

council’s arguments in refusing a permit to gain approval.

If the tower would be a distraction for drivers, VicRoads would have objected. There was no overlay on the site, which was zoned Industrial 1. “It is our view that the tower (once constructed) will become part of the natural fabric of the town,” Mr Hughes said.

The tower would be of a lattice structure with a range of antennas and communication dishes on top. Because of its height, it also had to satisfy Civil Aviation Safety Authority safety concerns by painting the top half aviation red and white.

An equipment shelter and chain mesh fence would also be constructed on the site which is on 28 Hughes St and owned by Rob Knox.

Mr Knox said he had held discussions with Optus but he had not taken much interest in the plan.

“Basically, it’s up to them to get a planning permit. It’s hard for anyone to get a permit out of this shire, so good luck to them. I suspect they’ll take it to VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal),” Mr Knox said.

Council received two objections from property owners on nearby industrial land. Officers concluded that a VCAT decision may be the likely solution, “A decision either way (council refusal or approval) could lead to an appeal at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, either by the permit applicant or by the objectors.

A media spokesperson for Optus Joshua Drayton, said the company would “review the decision and work with council to try and find a solution.

We’re still a fair way from VCAT,” he said.

Tower construction has troubled Optus in other parts of the State

as well. Last June, when Macedon Ranges Council refused a permit for a 35m communications tower close to the local primary school, Mr Drayton commented that Optus would “be considering all its options in light of the council’s decision, including a possible appeal to VCAT.” Last September Manningham Council residents said they did not want a 20m mobile phone tower protruding from surrounding bushland.

They said the tower would destroy “the beauty of the bushland area and detract from the natural landscape”.

Optus spokesman Joshua Drayton said the tower was needed to expand the company’s 3G mobile and wireless broadband network.

It would “enhance existing mobile and wireless broadband coverage in the area and deliver greater choice and competition to customers.”

In their report, South Gippsland council’s planning officers said that “the location, height and design of the tower” was inconsistent with the South Gippsland Planning Scheme, because of the gateway location of the site.

Approval would undermine council plans to improve the entrance into town from the Melbourne side.

Councillors also rejected an Optus option of erecting a monopole, because Optus regards the 50-metre height as the minimum requirement to offer an adequate service and 50 metres regardless of the type of tower, is unacceptable to council.

Optus gave no positive response to a council offer of an alternative site on top of the two-storey property at 7 McNamara Place, which already as a Telstra tower.

• OBITUARY

“The Bullant’s” final tale ARTHUR and Nola Ashenden enjoyed trips overseas and caravanning holidays around Australia.

When someone recently asked Arthur which place in his travels he liked best, the answer typified the man: Dumbalk.

He and Nola lived a long and happy life in the Dumbalk district, endearing themselves to the wider South Gippsland community which they served with distinction.

Nola, the love of Arthur’s life, died earlier this year; on September 12, Arthur followed her.

Known to all as Sonny, he leaves a personal legacy that could be summed up by a quote in one of the many books he wrote: “Good humour sometimes wins the battle that force and reason lose.”

Sonny was a gentleman but he loved a funny yarn. He was a good listener too.

His abilities to sum people up and see the lighter side of life were reflected in his writing, both his local histories and the column he penned for many years for The Star.

He signed it “The Bullant”, because the sting was always in the tail.

Sonny was born on November 29 1923, the grandson of Dollar pioneers Elizabeth and Ben Ashenden and the son of Arthur and May Ashenden, whose farm was called Ashdale. He was the eldest of five.

He went to the Dumbalk East State School and shared a family aptitude for music which he – and those who heard him play – enjoyed throughout his life.

He played violin, piano and organ. It

Arthur “Sonny” Ashenden: author, farmer, family man, councillor, mason, musician and community worker. also transposed onto the dance floor; he and Nola being regulars at dances in the Dumbalk Hall.

Sonny and Nola married on June 2 1948, farming at Ashdale before moving to Riversleigh in Dumbalk North, where the community life that was founded in Dollar, continued. They raised three children, Glenda, Shirley (deceased) and Robert; the family eventually numbering eight grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Sonny was one of the first members of the Dollar Young Farmers’ Club and a member of the Dollar Cricket team that won the 1954/55 premiership.

He was the general Mr Fixit and life member of the Dumbalk Hall Committee and treasurer for 20 years and as president

of the Shire of Woorayl, was delighted in 1971, to officially open the Dumbalk Infant Welfare and Kindergarten building. He loved to dress up as Santa for kinder and school Christmas break ups.

Cr Arthur Ashenden served the Shire of Woorayl for 17 years.

For 30 years, he was either secretary or president of the Dumbalk Recreation Reserve and, having been a time keeper for many years with the MDU Football Club, was rewarded with a life membership.

He chaired the back to Dumbalk committee in 1970 and the centenary

celebrations in 1978.

Sonny was a member of the Commonwealth Masonic Lodge for 65 years and master in 1995/96.

He was also a Justice of the Peace.

A farmer delegate for Murray Goulburn, Sonny was also a director of the Dumbalk Co-op and Murray Goulburn. He helped Nola organise Trease family and Dollar reunions and was an active member of Probus.

Sonny loved to write, both poetry and prose. His last book A Town in the Tarwin Valley, was launched by Victorian Governor Professor David de Kretser at last year’s back to Dumbalk

celebrations. Some of his work is in a dedicated file at the Dollar Museum in Scotland, others have reached classrooms in the USA. He was also adept with a camera and his shed at Riversleigh housed both the model train he built and the Dumbalk model village that he created, with Nola’s artistry providing the backdrop.

Sonny was tolerant, a great role model and a man who made everyone feel important.

That South Gippsland is a wonderful place to live is due, in part, to his extensive community involvement.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

DID you study at Leongatha Secondary College at any stage from year 7-12 with the class of 1999?

If so you are invited to the Ten Year Reunion. It will be held on Saturday, November 14 at the Leongatha RSL from 7pm.

Cover charge is $10 per person payable at the door and includes nibbles and jukebox with drinks available at bar prices.

Partners most welcome.

For any queries contact J’nae 0408 540 040 or Lynne 0400 208 555.

FRIENDS of the Prom will celebrate their 30th birthday at the Stockyard Camp, Wilsons Promontory National Park on Saturday, November 21, from 5pm.

An evening meal will be catered for, but bring your own drinks. Parks Victoria is sponsoring the event. Donations are invited. For details, call 5998 7734. RSVP required by November 18.

SOUTH Gippsland Youth Short Film Festival will be held at Stadium 4 Cinema, Leongatha, on Sunday, October 25, 11am

and 1.30pm. It will show short films made by South Gippsland youth cinematographers. Entry is free.

MIRBOO North Secondary College and Darren McCubbin are running a fundraiser for their revamped Year 9 program on Friday, October 30. Dress in your country and western best for the “Wild Wild West” murder mystery night at 7.30pm at the Mirboo North Football Club. Tickets, which are $35 and include finger food, are available from the college office. It is an over 18s event.

WELL done to Leongatha resident Mark Tapscott, who finished in second place in the 800m event at the Victorian Secondary School Championships at Olympic Park in Melbourne last Tuesday. The Leongatha Secondary College Year 12 student finished in a time of 2.04 minutes.

THE new chef at Carino’s Arrie Kaushik, is settling in well in Dumbalk, where his partner lives. “I really like

to be part of the community and I relate well to a diverse range of people,” Arrie said.

He is in the process of joining the local CFA and the MDU Cricket Club was quick to recognise his cricket skills and sign him up.

Indian-born, Arrie is an all rounder as a handy medium pace bowler and steady bat.

He also plays the drums.

THE National Breast Cancer Foundation is holding a fundraiser at the end of the month. Called Pink Hope, the function will be held at The Inlet Hotel, Inverloch, on Saturday, October 31, 9pm till late.

People who’d like to attend are asked to wear something pink. There will be live entertainment and raffles. The cover charge is $5. For inquiries call Melissa on 0400 110 762 or Brooke 0458 402 851.

effort.

LEONGATHA Parrots will host a champagne breakfast on Melbourne Cup day from 7am at the clubrooms. The event will cost $20 a head and will include drinks, breakfast, cup sweep and a phantom call. Come along on the morning or grab a ticket from Shan’s Lingerie in Bair St. Pina Materia of Smith Street, Leongatha turned 70 on October 21. Her six children organised a party for her at the Freccia Azzura Club in Melbourne where she celebrated with her family and friends.

LEONGATHA’S Nance and Mac Stewart celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary on October 26. Well done to both of you – a great

JEMIMA Milkins’ Nightmare before Christmas celebration of her 21st birthday recently was celebrated at home with over 100 happy family and friends. Together with her dad Peter and boyfriend Ben and good friends Alan, Rod and Jason, and with debut from Scotty and brother Kaine, the entertainment played well into the early morning alongside pumpkins, skeletons, black cats and party guests. An awesome night was had by all. Pictured above are Jemima (centre), mother Janine and sister Charlotte.

LEONGATHA TOPIC Club is holding a fashion parade at the Leongatha Community House on October 29 at 1.30pm. The cost is $5 and includes a delicious afternoon tea.

Jan from Pomegranate Clothing will show you how to maximise your best features by wearing the right type of clothing and accessories whatever your shape and size.

For details, call Margie 5662 2212 or Jill 5668 8180 by October 27.

A GIRLS Night In at a private home in Leongatha,

LEONGATHA couple Jessie Spencer and Barry Delaney were looking good last week as they modelled oufits from Influence on Dusk and Panthers Mensland. With spring in the air and racing on everybody mind, there’s no better time to check out The Star’s spring fashion feature on pages 18/19.

has raised $1334 for the Cancer Council Australia.

The money will be used to help the 15,700 women who are diagnosed every year with breast or gynaecological cancers. One of the Leongatha organisers Karena Kerr, said the night was “fantastic”. It was attended by 35 participants, some of whom wore pink to symbolise their support of those with breast cancer.

Elders’ auctioneer Morgan Davies, drew on his years of experience to auction a range of donated items.

Girls Night In events are traditionally held in Oc-

tober. They can take any form, but those who attend are usually asked to donate what they would spend on a night out.

JANICE (Sage) and Neville Pitcher celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday October 17 with a surprise tea at the RSL Leongatha, organised by their children Malcolm, Sharon and Rosslyn, which included guests from Koroit, Stawell, Seaford, Ballarat and locally.

Great night: Karena Kerr helped organise a Girls Night In to raise money for women’s cancers. She is with her daughters Taylar and Maddison (right).

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 11

Doing the bus stop

By Chris Brown THERE are more bus services on the way for the region.

A new service linking Koo Wee Rup and Pakenham and increased frequency between Traralgon and Wonthaggi are the highlights.

The new timetable begins on Monday, November 9.

Weekend services will be introduced on the Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Leongatha and Traralgon route, while weekday return trips on that route will increase to three, up from one previously.

Each weekday there will be six services between Koo Wee Rup and Pakenham and three on Saturday and Sunday.

Eastern Victoria Upper House MP Matt Viney was in Leongatha last week to announce the new bus services.

He said they were the second stage of the State Government’s $14.7million investment in South Gippsland and Bass Coast buses.

Last week’s announcement came “after quite a considerable period of consultation. People are wanting to go

to so many different places and there’s not the demand, so we have to make it all work,” Mr Viney said.

“Rural services are more complicated. People want to go to the Latrobe Valley, Wonthaggi or Pakenham.”

Mr Viney acknowledged there was some disappointment related to the rail line.

“Buses provide a bit of flexibility,” he said.

“The rail track is just for connections into Melbourne. Buses can take people around Gippsland and into Melbourne.”

Mayor Jim Fawcett said council was impressed with the breadth and regularity of services.

Mirboo North Community Development Group member Bernice Snell said extra services through the town should enable people to get to the Latrobe Valley, beaches or Leongatha.

“It’s important for people to be able to catch a bus to the train line that brings them back in the same day,” she said.

South Gippsland Public Transport User Group spokesman Max Semken said it was good for the time being.

A new timetable detailing all local and V/Line bus services will be

released shortly.

Another two new buses worth hundreds of thousands of dollars will begin operating in South Gippsland shortly.

The Star took a ride on one of these state-of-the-art people movers last week and found it quite comfortable.

The seat was supportive with plenty of leg room and a metal bar leg rest.

Air conditioning quickly cooled the bus down and there are personal air vents to control where it flows.

Another positive was the big windows and elevated position, which provided wonderful views of the South Gippsland countryside.

On the negative side was the noise of the engine and air conditioning.

It was also quite a bumpy ride; particularly down Bair St in Leongatha.

Meanwhile there have already been some positive stories from the Venus Bay trial bus service operating on Monday, Friday and Sunday.

Transport connections officer Katherine Cousins said a couple had used it to travel from Venus Bay to Leongatha, then to Southern Cross Station where they caught a bus to the airport before catching a plane to Brisbane.

Reputation forged: Member for Eastern Victoria Matt Viney was at Leongatha Hospital last week to commend GSHS CEO Gary Templeton and his team for their fine efforts during the February bushfires around Mirboo North.

GSHS honoured GIPPSLAND Southern Health Service was commended last week

by Member for Eastern Victoria Matt Viney for its efforts during February’s devastating bushfires.

GSHS CEO Gary Templeton accepted an award from Mr Viney on behalf of the organisation.

Mr Viney said it was important that GSHS’s work during the fires be recognised.

He stressed that the “emotional support” offered by GSHS had been important in helping people recover from the effects of the fires.

For Mr Templeton the day the fires started in and around Mirboo North was a testing one, but one that proved the worth of his team.

“I do remember the day (when the fires hit around Mirboo North) very well. It started for me at about 4.30am when I got the first call,” Mr Templeton said.

“It’s always very satisfying when all the things you think about your own health

service prove to be true. There were so many people in this organisation who went way beyond what they would normally do.

They did an absolutely fantastic job.

“I think we had 39 residents in Koorooman House and we’d only moved there two weeks before that.”

The aged care facility accepted a number of residents from the Mirboo North Aged Care facility when it was threatened by fire.

“It soaked up twice as many residents as it was built for, but everyone was relatively comfortable. Everyone survived and it was just a fantastic experience,” Mr Templeton said.

“It was an experience, as CEO of this organisation, of which I’m very proud. I thank everyone who participated.”

The evacuation of residents from the Mirboo North Aged Care facility was one of high drama, but remarkably smooth co-ordination. Residents were ferried to Leongatha Hospital. Later some went to other facilities in Foster and Melbourne.

The wheels on the bus: Eastern Victoria MP Matt Viney, Transport Connections officer Katherine Cousins, Mayor Jim Fawcett, Department of Transport acting regional manager Wayne Berryman, Cr Mimmie Jackson and shire acting CEO Dirk Holwerda.

Another man will be able to use public transport to travel all the way from his Venus Bay home to his family at Swan Hill.

Letters will be sent to Venus Bay

and Tarwin Lower residents detailing that bus timetable shortly.

For regional transport information visit www.viclink.com.au or call 136 196.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Let the Power play To good health SOUTH Gippsland is a great place to stay healthy, but a bad place to be sick.

Our hospital services simply are not up to scratch, with our best medical services under immense pressure and our worst looking like buildings that have been forgotten by bureaucrats for decades.

News that ambulance services have been regularly waiting outside Wonthaggi’s emergency ward for up to four hours is an indictment on the level of funding coming into South Gippsland.

While Wonthaggi seems unable to cope with the increasing burden placed on it by South Gippsland’s growing and ageing population, Leongatha just wants the chance to claim a proper hospital of its own.

The Leongatha Memorial Hospital buildings are a disgrace.

Its staff are wonderful – make no mistake.

But the buildings are in critical condition and are costing a fortune just to maintain to modern health care standards.

Finally, after many years of broken promises, Leongatha seems ready to act on the situation.

A public meeting will be held next month.

If we really care about the hospital, the venue for the meeting should be overflowing out onto the street.

Every interest group and every concerned individual should be there to voice their opinion on the situation and support those who are agitating for change.

We need to show the State Government that this town needs and deserves a high quality health system.

If people stay at home on the night of the rally, waiting for others to do the work for them, then we will get our just desserts.

This is an opportunity that must be seized if the town is to have a vibrant and useful hospital for decades to come.

Missing this chance could see us become a town without a hospital like so many others in Victoria.

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 a frequent visitor to South Gippsland and a keen follower of local football, I cannot understand the Wonthaggi Power situation.

From a close study of local papers and related internet articles, things just don’t add up. Could someone (editor, reporter, Alberton representative, VCFL representative, another football follower), please explain why Wonthaggi is being forced from the Alberton League?

Some quoted and reported reasons: 1. The combination of Rovers and Blues have produced an unbeatable juggernaut.

Research shows the Power have less members than the Blues used to have. Players are going through the normal cycles of success and failure.

2. Population base. Phillip Island FC has a larger base than Wonthaggi. Korumburra/Bena slightly smaller, yet Wonthaggi must go.

3. Wonthaggi is too powerful and dominant in all grades of football and netball. 2007 and 2009 results speak for themselves.

4. Wonthaggi has been voted out by other clubs. Recent articles seem to suggest that a binding legal agreement has been dishonoured by Yarram’s forfeit and the VCFL’s failure to restructure South Gippsland football.

Could the editor investigate and have a look at the actual document and relevant

Debate continues COUNCILLOR Lewis accuses Peter and myself of ‘frantic’ efforts regarding planning policy, and claims we have ‘an obvious commitment to State government policies’ (Star October 20) .

We do not apologise for advocating planning policies that protect South Gippsland’s economic base - farming and dairy manufacture. We strongly criticise the abuse and persistent personal attacks directed at councillors by the C 48 watchdogs. We support the right of all citizens to submit objections, suggest alterations, or write submissions in support of the draft rural strategy in accordance with the planning laws of previous Liberal governments and the present Labor government. We are sorry for those who have been sold small blocks at inflated prices under the misapprehension that they would get a

clauses and conditions and let the public know? The VCFL have closed the filing cabinet on the matter.

5. The situation has dragged on for too long. Surely there is not a time limit on receiving a fair go?

6. Personal views that range from vitriolic, threatening and discriminating to

permit for a house but not at all sorry for the estate agents, land traders and others who contributed to the present problem.

It is deplorable that Cr Lewis has introduced party political partisanship into the debate (see the above claim). Up to now party politics have not featured in the debates of South Gippsland Shire Council or its predecessors. Previous councillors recognised that party allegiances are irrelevant to council decision- making and can be divisive.

In any case Cr Lewis is quite wrong when he assumes that Peter and I are motivated by loyalty to the ALP government. Peter might perhaps have voted Labor once in his 67 years. At the formation of the Australian Democrats in 1977 I joined up as a member and stood as a candidate on three occasions. I’ve written lots of submissions to Brumby government ministers criticising

VOXPOP! VOX

I want to do engineering either at uni or Tafe. I’ll make as much money as possible while doing as little as possible.

James Golding

I hope to study science at university. I’ll work hard and hope it all goes well.

Nick Van Agtmaal

policies and urging changes.

For the record, Peter has written no letters at all about windfarms or genetic modification of food crops. I have, and make no apology for this. But Cr Lewis surely knows that the Liberal party supports clean renewable power generation including windfarms. Cr Lewis should know that John Howard’s government set up guidelines regarding GM foods and that Liberal and National Party members as well as mainstream farmers’ organisations support the right of Australian farmers to cultivate approved, trialled, safe and profitable GM crop varieties. Does this make these farmers, farm organisations and conservative party members ‘committed’ to everything the ALP state government does? How ridiculous.

Wilma Western Leongatha

Creating change

The Star caught up with Year 12 students on muck-up day and asked them what they wanted to do next year.

I’m going to defer and work somewhere to make enough money to go to uni.

Dean Salmons-Snelton

untrue, biased and cowardly should be dismissed as not really being reasons for Wonthaggi to go.

The ramifications for Wonthaggi Power to move are club-changing. The reasons need to be valid.

James Conolly Cape Paterson.

Music at university. I’ll be trying to become a successful musician.

Euan Cumming

I CONGRATULATE The Star for the articles published in the October 13 edition on Mrs Johanna Haasjes and the excellent work she and other local people do in raising awareness of the problem of global poverty and our ability to do something positive about it.

As Mrs Toohill put it, we can make a real positive difference to the lives of real people who are suffering from lack of food, clean water and shelter in the poorest parts of the world.

The recent visit to Leongatha of the Watoto Children’s Choir also demonstrates the positive impact we as individuals can make to the lives of abandoned and orphaned children.

Unlike campaigns to spend incredible amounts of money to bend the laws of nature to try to change the earth’s temperature or change salt water into drinking water, campaigns to relieve poverty and distress for

our poorer neighbours are much more practical and achievable (and at a fraction of the cost).

Suryan Chandrasegaran Nerrena

Get ready

THE weather is warming up and Victoria’s focus has now turned towards the coming bushfire season with ‘Bushfire preparedness week’.

Many of us, particularly those close to bushland, will be looking for ways in which we can prepare our properties and review our fire plans.

Builders are concerned however, that attention is also now being drawn to the notion of using bunkers as a last line of defence against bushfires, even though no bunkers regulations currently exist.

While minimum guidelines are being carefully developed by regulators, Master Builders urges Victorians to reconsider their reliance on a bushfire bunker – even if a minimum standard is eventually released.

Bunkers are far more complex structures than most people think. Consideration is required for bottled oxygen supply, signage to locate the bunker, resistance to embers, and the ability for those inside to measure the threat outside.

Bunkers can also become home to natural hazards like snakes and spiders.

The Bushfire Royal Commission revealed that tragically, not all bunkers were effective in saving lives in conditions like Black Saturday. Reducing bushfire fuel loads, clearing native vegetation and having a well thought-out fire plan are more important than relying on bunkers to defend against fire risk.

Radley de Silva Deputy Executive Director Master Builders Association of Victoria

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 13

DSE ready to burn

By Matt Dunn THE Department of Sustainability and Environment has mapped out a three year burns program for South Gippsland as part of its Fire Operations Plan.

But the burns are unlikely to save properties if fire conditions are as extreme as they were doing February’s bushfires.

“It’s about strategically reducing fuels in certain areas. Certainly fire control is a lot easier if the fuel is reduced. But on those really bad days, like February last year, where you’ve got fires spotting kilometres ahead, individual fuel reduction burns aren’t necessarily going to be effective,” DSE fire management

officer for South Gippsland David Gallacher said.

“A lot of our burns are not just done for fire protection. Quite a number of ours are done for ecological reasons. For instance we’ve had a program going for about seven or eight years in the Wonthaggi heath lands, burning a block there each year. That’s largely to keep the heath lands vegetation healthy and regenerating.

“Our burns aren’t just about fire protection. They’re also about environmental management, though they have fire protection benefit as well.

It’s not just about fuel reduction burning for protection purposes.”

Whatever their effectiveness, many burns would not happen until next autumn.

“Spring burning we can do a bit

of, but as you can imagine it’s been a bit difficult with the rains,” Mr Gallacher said.

“We will have a burn down at Waratah Bay, near the caravan park, which, weather permitting, should happen in the next few weeks. That’s sort of tied in with the Township Protection Plan as well.

“But that will very much depend on the weather.”

DSE will station extra crews at potential trouble spots.

Mr Gallacher said those readying themselves for the fires “probably would be better off in this part of the world” than they had been in the lead up to the February fires.

“We’re gearing up for the fire season now and in terms of the project fire fighters we put on each summer, we’ll have more in South Gippsland

than we’ve had in previous years.

We should have an additional eight to 10 more people than we’ve had in previous years,” he said.

“They’re starting to come in now.

For instance, we’ve got a project fire fighting crew based in Wonthaggi, which we haven’t had in previous years. We’ll have crews at Wonthaggi, Foster and Tidal River.

“We’re more geared up from that point of view and I’d say we’re at least as well prepared in this part of the world as we have been in previous years, and we’ll have more people around the place.”

Mr Gallacher said the Fire Operations Plan had attracted a lot of attention from members of the local community.

“We got a fair bit of feedback this year about the South Gippsland

plan. We got probably around 30 written submissions from various people, though a lot of them were not specifically about the plan, but particular fire hazards in particular areas,” Mr Gallacher said.

“They used that process to bring those things up. There were a number of community meetings.

In Leongatha there were about 45 people. Considering there were about five people at a similar meeting in Traralgon, that was a healthy number.”

Mr Gallacher said the interest was because of “heightened community awareness” after the devastating fires of early 2009 and “particularly because of the Mirboo North/ Delburn fire”.

Powerful experience: human powered vehicle races are a highlight of the festival.

Looking for energy ideas Businesses are invited to set up displays, presentations and activities at the festival in March 2010.

Community and school entries are also invited. Many householders are already working to reduce their carbon footprint. Their displays can help others by showing what can be done.

The festival supports the Wonthaggi Human Powered Grand Prix. On the weekend of the Energy Innovation Festival, around 80 teams of enthusiasts will pedal their energy-efficient recumbent cycles round a 1.4 km track at Wonthaggi’s Recreation Reserve, over a continuous 24 hours of thrills, spills, teamwork and endurance.

Project Co-ordinator Susan Davies also chairs the new Energy Innovation Co-operative which was formally established after a gathering at last year’s festival. She wants to encourage schools, relevant local businesses and community groups to participate.

“As I talk to people about these issues, most have similar concerns they want to take action to reduce their emissions, and reduce their energy and water bills, but are confused about what to do. Many are unsure about what products are available and where to go to get them.” she said.

“We have several local communities in Bass Coast and South Gippsland Shires, where groups are aiming towards becoming “Transition Towns”, preparing for climate change and peak

oil. Those groups too, want to know more about the products and services available in this region to help people take real and positive action.”

“The demand is there, and is growing. The Energy Innovation Festival provides a central place where people can see many businesses and others who are taking action. We also provide additional, very cost effective marketing opportunities to help businesses promote themselves over the whole year, to those who are most interested.”

Bass Coast Mayor, Cr John Duscher, said Bass Coast Shire was pleased to sponsor the Energy Innovation Festival in March 2010.

“The Festival showcases the latest in sustainable living and energy conservation techniques” said Cr Duscher.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for you to find out ways of reducing your energy and water consumption in the home or business and helping to reduce our impact on our planet.”

“In 2006, Council set greenhouse emission reduction targets for both Council and community as part of our Local Greenhouse Action Plan. Since then, Council has worked with the community to support activities which will help reduce community greenhouse emissions.

The Energy Innovation Festival is a great example of our partnership with the community to reduce greenhouse emissions.”

Susan said she was looking forward to hearing from some accredited “green plumbers” and “green electricians”, inventors and farm service providers as well as retailers, manufacturers and community members.

“The festival in 2010 should be bigger and better than ever.”

More bus services for South Gippsland and Bass Coast (It’s part of the plan).

From Monday 9 November, people in South Gippsland and Bass Coast will have an additional 179 bus services to travel on each week.

The State Government’s $14.7 million South Gippsland and Bass Coast Bus Improvement Package, will deliver a total of 313 extra services each week, a 94% increase on bus services for the region.

Stage 2 improvements include: • A new service between Koo Wee Rup and Pakenham • Increased frequency on the Yarram – Traralgon and Traralgon – Wonthaggi routes • New weekend services on the Yarram – Traralgon and Traralgon – Wonthaggi routes • Extra services to Yarram in the evening and on weekends, including services to and from Melbourne • Extra services to Corinella and Coronet Bay • Improved connections between bus and coach services • Improved connections to V/Line train services and the metropolitan rail network A new timetable has been developed based on community feedback and includes all bus and coach services in the South Gippsland and Bass Coast region.

New timetables will be available from V/Line stations and bus operators in the week prior to the new services starting.

For more information on regional services and fares visit viclink.com.au or call 136 196.

www.transport.vic.gov.au

DOT4467/09_1338

ORGANISERS of the SP Ausnet Energy Innovation Festival in Wonthaggi are on their annual search for innovative businesses selling products and services to help householders reduce energy use, water bills and local greenhouse gas emissions.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

TAFE moves with times

By Jane Ross THE new $7.5m GippsTAFE building in Leongatha will have two more classrooms than the portables it now uses.

But that doesn’t mean the institute staff will be trying to physically fill them with more students.

That’s not how TAFE works.

These days, it’s all about flexibility.

In fact, only around half of the campus students actually come in to class.

The rest learn in a variety of ways including at their workplace, online, via video conferencing or by phone.

Vanessa Marsh has spent eight years in a department of GippsTAFE working out how the institute can meet its brief of providing vocational education and training to the community, outside the classroom.

She is part of the Leongatha campus leadership team and her experience sits well with her role as team leader of Leongatha programs, co-ordinating training and teaching staff.

Vanessa said there are all sorts of ways that training and assessment can

take place.

For example, she explained, if you’ve been cooking in a hotel kitchen for some years, GippsTAFE can come to you, discuss your skills and, if necessary, offer training where needed.

That way said Vanessa, you can be provided with a certificate recognising the skills you already have.

Campus manager David Bruce chimed in, GippsTAFE is geared to what students need, rather than the old way of expecting students to fit the TAFE mould.

Vanessa said regional TAFEs are leading the way with lateral thinking in course provision.

Leongatha Campus administrator Robyn Eva, said people are busy working, raising families and wanting to study. They can’t all come to a TAFE classroom between 9am and 3.30pm. Petrol costs are also a factor.

So, TAFE goes to them.

The management team is keen for businesses to consider training for their staff. That’s where Noelle Bowman comes in. She’s the fourth spoke in the GippsTAFE Leongatha leadership wheel. It is her role to liaise with the

business community to develop training that is geared to particular needs, asking what staff training gaps there are and meeting those.

And if the Leongatha Campus can’t meet those for some reason, there’s always the option of GippsTAFE’s other four campuses. The institute, in fact, advertises all over Victoria and has a total of $35 million worth of building works underway.

One of these projects is at Leongatha, where a $7.5 million hub is in the early stages of construction. The building will be “five star, green star” said David, designed so that it won’t need daytime lighting, heating or cooling.

Robyn Eva will be keeping a close eye on that aspect of the building because she is studying for a Diploma of Sustainability – through GippsTAFE, of course.

The new Leongatha building will have a full training commercial kitchen and restaurant, a hairdressing and beauty salon and a hospital training room.

David said it might be possible for students to have 24 hour access to the new TAFE computer lab.

On site: the GippsTAFE Leongatha Campus leadership team from left Robyn Eva, Vanessa Marsh, David Bruce and Noelle Bowman. They are holding a picture of the new campus building. Construction is underway on the Nerrena Road site.

Inverloch ageing in good hands THE Inverloch Residential Aged Care Development Committee is looking out for aged care projects that will benefit the Inverloch district.

Since 1983, the committee has been fund raising to provide aged care facilities. Seed money facilitated Domain Seahaven in Cashin Street, which has 109 aged care beds, followed

by the development of 18 independent living units on the Bass Highway providing low rental accommodation to qualifying residents.

Jill Steer, who was elected president at its recent annual general meeting, said the committee has retained a proprietary interest in the Bass Highway property to ensure it continues in community ownership in the long term.

She said the committee was grateful for

community donations over a long period.

Yvonne Randell, who has been on the committee since 1993 and served as secretary, treasurer and public officer, has retired, as has another former treasurer Fred Cotterill.

Mrs Steer is joined on the committee by vice president S. Castellas, honorary secretary E. Henderson, honorary treasurer T. Seebeck and T. Rickard and Marg Scott.

Office closed on Cup Day SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council offices will be closed on Melbourne Cup Day, Tuesday, November 3.

“Up until last year when legislation changed, council’s offices were always open on Cup Day, with staff just having a late lunch break to watch the Cup,” said acting chief executive Dirk Holwerda.

“However, it is now a designated State wide public holiday and not just a metropolitan one.”

Acting aged and disability co-ordinator Sara Cox said essential services would still be provided. ”While we won’t be providing cleaning and shopping services for our clients on Cup Day, we will provide Meals on Wheels and personal shower care for Home And Community Care clients.”

There are no changes to waste management services on Cup Day. If residents’ transfer station is normally open, or they usually have a kerbside collection on Tuesdays, these services will continue.

Korumburra’s Coal Creek Heritage Village will be open for business. The Prom Country visitor information centres at Korumburra and Foster will also be open to assist visitors.

Council’s 24 hour number 5662 9200 will be available for urgent issues relating to council services, such as storm damage and stock on roads. Police, ambulance and fire emergencies should be directed to 000 as usual.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 15

Scary night at Creek COAL Creek will offer a Halloween experience like no other, with free entry to a night of ghoulish fun.

For those who want to ‘trick or treat’ a cost of $5 will apply. Children are asked to bring their own trick or treat bag.

Kids will be encouraged to wander through the village and collect goodies in a safe environment.

The night will include two free dance parties, with music provided by the Karaoke King.

Prizes will be on offer for the best dressed Halloween-themed costumes.

Both adults and children are encouraged to dress up, with prizes for both.

Also on display will be the

Full of tricks: newsXpress staff members Sophie Bolge and Rachel Dwyer get into the spirit of Halloween.

Agents of fear LEONGATHA newsXpress is ready to celebrate Halloween this week with a full range of ghoulish merchandise.

For anyone who wants to trick or treat this Saturday, the Leongatha stationery experts is the place to go.

Co-owner Peter Watchorn said the shop was gearing up for a fun and frightening time.

“We’ve got witches’ hats and masks and little dressup stuff.

There’s bags for kids to get their lollies with when they trick or treat,” he said.

A dazzling window display has attracted the attention of shoppers on Bair Street.

But it is not just the shop that is dressing up.

“On Halloween, Saturday, Octo-

Evans goes BP EVANS Petroleum will switch allegiances from Mobil to BP, taking up the new livery in the coming weeks.

The decision was made on the back of news that Mobil was selling its retail arm, subject to ACCC approval.

Evans’ manager Stuart Evans, said the business would not change in any discernible way and there would be no job losses.

“We’re changing our retail sites across to BP, except our Cowes site, which will remain Mobil.

It’s been brought about by all the changes associated with the Mobil and Caltex buy out,” he said.

ber 31, the staff will be getting into the theme on the day,” Peter said.

Aside from witches’ hats and bags for trick or treating, the shop is selling devil horn headbands, pitchforks, spider webs, fake blood and Dracula fangs, and an assortment of other frightening merchandise.

Despite its popularity in America, Halloween very much has its origins in Celtic culture.

Halloween originated in the ancient Gaelic festival known as Samhain (pronounced sow-in or sauan), which is derived from Old Irish and translates roughly as “summer’s end”.

A similar festival was held by the ancient Britons and is known as Calan Gaeaf (pronounced kalangeyf). The festival of Samhain celebrates the end of the “lighter half”

of the year and beginning of the “darker half”, and is sometimes regarded as the “Celtic New Year”.

Halloween was, and very much remains, a festival of the dead. The ancient Gaels believed that the border between this world and the otherworld became thin on Samhain, allowing spirits (both harmless and harmful) to pass through.

The family’s ancestors were honoured and invited home, while harmful spirits were warded off. It is believed that the need to ward off harmful spirits led to the wearing of costumes and masks. Their purpose was to disguise oneself as a harmful spirit and thus avoid harm. In Scotland the spirits were impersonated by young men dressed in white with masked, veiled or blackened faces.

scarecrows from the Coal Creek Scarecrows competition.

The Pig & Whistle Hotel will be open for snacks and refreshments, with Apex to provide a sausage sizzle.

Other food vendors, including the Transylvanian Food Company and The Green Door Organic Café, will be placed around the park, offering tasty foods and beverages at un-scary prices.

IGA will offer free apple bobbing.

For those who haven’t been scared enough, trips on the Coal Creek Ghost Train are available for one night only at the discount price of $5.

A bonfire will keep all the ghouls, monsters and goblins warm, when they are not being scared silly at the Coal Creek Haunted House.

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Farewell to Reverend Bruce Charles WONTHAGGI and Inverloch’s Anglican minister, the Reverend Bruce Charles, was formally farewelled at the October meeting of Bass Coast Council.

Mr Charles is moving to Moe. Mayor Cr John Duscher, presented the rev-

erend with a citation recognising Mr Charles’ major community contribution in the 11 years he has been stationed in Bass Coast.

Cr Duscher said the minister’s role had been wide and included emergency housing, emergency management, youth support and grief counselling. He was also the police chaplain.

Social justice and making a difference had

been very important to him.

The mayor said Mr Charles was a highly respected man who had established strong links between the church and community.

“He was a very worthy recipient of Bass Coast Shire’s Australian Citizen of the Year Award this year. He has been a champion of the community and is a champion bloke.”

Advertisement

Come all: Geoff Trease, manager of the South Gippsland Seed Bank.

FREE SWINE FLU VACCINE AVAILABLE TO EVERYONE!

Seeds of salvation HAVE you ever wondered what happens inside a seed bank?

The pandemic H1N1 influenza virus, or Swine Flu, is still a threat to many Australians.

To help reduce the threat, the Australian Governments have introduced a vaccination program for everyone over ten years of age.

It is especially important for those most at risk, such as: • healthcare workers • pregnant women • parents and guardians of young infants • Indigenous Australians • and those with chronic health conditions such as asthma, obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, lung or heart disease, cancer or neurological diseases.

Children under 10 years will be able to receive the vaccine when clinical trials and paediatric registration is complete.

Even if you are fit and well, you could still be at risk or infect more vulnerable people.

You can protect yourself and your community both now and in the future, and help stop the spread, by getting your FREE vaccine. Normal GP consultation fee may apply.

For more information and where to get your FREE vaccine go to www.healthemergency.gov.au, or call 180 2007.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Capital Hill, Canberra

Maybe you would benefit from visiting the South Gippsland Seed Bank on open day.

The seed bank is located in the Leongatha industrial estate and has been operating since the mid 1990s.

Over this time, the bank has supplied hundreds of kilograms of indigenous seed to grow trees for planting around the region.

Seed bank manager Geoff Trease said seed is supplied to plant nurseries to grow tube stock, and property owners and groups undertaking direct seeding.

“Diversity of plant species and genetic variability within those species is vital to ensure the best outcomes for our local environment. The seed bank plays a key role in making sure this occurs,” he said.

The South Gippsland Landcare Network supports the seed bank and recently paid for two new signs, as well as protective equipment for volunteer seed collectors.

Network co-ordinator Belinda Brennan said: “Our network values the seed bank as a source of quality seed for all our direct seeding projects through South Gippsland.

“We obtained seed from the Seed Bank for our recent ‘one million trees’ program for propagation kits that were provided to participants”.

The South Gippsland Seed Bank will be open on Thursday November 5, between 9.30am and 12.30pm.

People can see how the seed bank operates, how seed is stored and have a go at preparing seed for propagation.

The bank is located at 18-20 Ashenden Street, Leongatha.

For more information, contact Geoff Trease on 0400 746 828.

Slash food waste

SOUTH Gippslanders are being urged to reduce their food waste.

Recent audits by the Gippsland Regional Waste Management Group indicate people in South Gippsland Shire discard substantial amounts of food.

“Householders can save money and reduce their waste generation through careful purchasing, storage and disposal of food,” the group’s executive officer, Matthew Peake, said.

South Gippslanders are now recycling more rubbish than ever and Mr Peake urged them to aim higher.

“It is clear that the whole of the community makes a contribution to improved recycling outcomes,” he said.

“If more people take a little more time to sort their waste and better utilise the facilities that local government puts in place, improvement will come.”

Mr Peake said as well as environmental benefits, there were economic savings as well.

“More thought about waste management in the household can be very beneficial,” he said.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 17

Pipi count THE huge harvesting of pipis at Venus Bay has prompted new research to ensure their numbers are managed sustainably.

Last summer, Venus Bay experienced a major increase in the harvest levels from recreational fishers.

That increase prompted a reduction in the daily bag limit from five to two litres (in the shell) in May. The new limits apply in the Cape Liptrap Coastal Park between Arch Rock and Point Smythe and will stay in place until at least May next year, according to the Department of Primary Industries.

Pipis can only be harvested by licensed recreational fishers, unless exempt, using their hands and feet only. No shovels or other tools can be used.

Acting executive director of Fisheries Victoria, Anthony Hurst said the main objective of the study is “to better understand the biological behaviour of pipi populations and pipi harvesting by recreational fishers at Venus Bay. “Fisheries Victoria has funded a research project to be conducted by Victo-

ria University that will provide valuable information on pipi stocks,” Mr Hurst said.

“The research will be part of the post graduate studies of a student supervised by the Ecology and Sustainability Group at Victoria University and Fisheries Victoria, and is expected to be completed around June 2010.

“Research from other locations has shown pipi numbers can change noticeably from year to year, with plentiful supplies in some years and scarcity in others.

“The variations are most likely caused by natural changes in the patterns of coastal currents and wind, which drive the transport of larval pipis. This is the first time a study of this kind has been undertaken on pipi stocks at Venus Bay. “The researchers will further investigate the population biology of pipis and characterise the recreational harvest. The results from this research will help to inform future decisions about the harvest of pipis so that fishers can continue to enjoy this great activity in a sustainable way.”

Power of deceit

By Jane Ross

KATRINA Benson’s elderly grandparents have been conned by a power supply company.

She is furious and wants to make sure others aren’t subjected to the same ploy.

She said telemarketers from Simply Energy rang her grandfather to try to persuade him to swap his energy supplier. He said “no”, but the call was followed up by a personal visit by two women from the company.

Katrina said had they been men, her grandparents would probably not have allowed them into their Leongatha home, but because they were women, they did.

Her grandparents were told almost everyone in the street had signed over to Simply Energy, so they should too. Her grandfather repeated his earlier refusal.

As they were leaving, the women said he had to sign a form to say they had been there to see him. Belonging to a generation where people trusted each other and were justified in those sentiments, Katrina’s grandfather signed the form. He was not given a copy.

When Katrina’s mother found out about the matter, she became suspicious and rang Simply Energy. She was told the account had been signed over to them.

Katrina saw red and contacted the Ombudsman. The account alteration has been reversed, but Katrina is concerned about others.

FREE GPS GARMIN HANDHELD *

N, $0 ON A $30 PLAN OR WITH ANY NEW CONNECTIO

0

$

TELSTRA ® EASYTOUCH2 DISCOVERY

$

0

ONT UPAFR $20 PLAN * ON

STONY Creek’s historic premiership win has been immortalised by photographer Gerard Bruning.

Gerard’s captured the grand final from the first sausages cooked at the Foster showgrounds to the ongoing celebrations at the Meeniyan Hotel.

The 48 page book is printed on high quality glossy paper that does justice to Gerard’s great images.

“I had someone ask me if they could have some photos, but I just thought I had so many images that I should use them,” he said.

The book, which costs $275, can be ordered through Four Corners Framing.

RETR5364A26

Captured forever: Gerard Bruning has produced a coffee-table book on Stony Creek’s premiership.

Gerard’s history book

“There could be more people in the area who have been scammed and wouldn’t know unless you ring up and ask, or when the next bill (probably with connection fees) arrives from them.”

Katrina said apparently there is little the Ombudsman can do to prevent the practice.

“But the bush telegraph works wonders locally!”

She has found out that Do Not Knock stickers are available to put on your front door making it unlawful for door-to-door callers to stay on your property to conduct their business. These can be downloaded from the Consumer Action Law Centre at www.consumeraction.org.au Her grandparents now have one.

*

CONNECTIONS ON $30 PLANS AND ABOVE FROM TELSTRA

• Easy E to read display & simple d menu layout m •B Big buttons & number display n •L Loudspeaker phone ffor clear sound •H Hearing Aid compatible c

NOKIA 6270

0

$

^

*On $30 Phone Plan Plan, the costt off the the th he phone is included in th the $30 over 24 months. Minimum cost over 24 months for the Telstra Easy Touch® Discovery 2 is $480 and Samsung Preston is $720 each or the Nokia 6720 is $960 each (for phone and service) plus usage charges. Early termination charges apply. Approved customers only and ID required. Customers who wish to bring their own phone can take up a Member Plan which may offer a monthly credit. Not available with other Telstra offers. No trade sales. ID required. Offer valid 26/10/09 - 01/11/09.

Nokia 6270 N • • • •

Autofocus camera Active noise cancellation Turn-by-turn navigation Convenient Internet

UPFRONT ON A $40 PLAN

*

149

VIA REDEMPTION

ABOVE

UPFRONT ˆWITH ALL NEW

Te Telstra EasyTouch® Ea Discovery 2 D

$

VALLUED AT

Samsung Preston

SAMSUN PRESTO G N

0

$

UPFRONT ON A $30

PLAN *

• 2.8” full colour touch screen • Stylish, slim and compact design • 3.2 mega-pixel camera with flash sh • Mobile widgets for or quick access to features and services • Auto-rotation for web browsing

ˆBy Redemption. Limited time only.

Details instore.

LEONGATHA - Kelvin Johns Retravision 25 McCartin St 5662 2136

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Ladies, your day is here THE gates will open on the Stony Creek spring racing season with the traditional Ladies Day meet on Friday, November 6.

Exquisite fashions, scrumptious food and superb entertainment will have ladies feeling like royalty, from noon.

Members of the finer gender in South Gippsland are invited to book tables in the special marquee and enjoy a fashion parade featuring stunning local models of all ages, adorned in the clothes of the season from Leongatha boutique store, Influence on Dusk.

Proprietor Judy Stone is co-ordinating a show featuring outfits for casual, racing and glamorous evening occasions.

Colourful casual attire, racing dresses matched with hats and bags, plus elegant night-time wear will be showcased.

“Instead of going to Melbourne for Oaks Day, ladies can come to Stony Creek, relax and enjoy themselves. It’s a great girls day out,” Judy said.

Reputable South Gippsland singer Billy Broadfoot will dazzle with her varied singing styles and radio 3GG presenter Megan Harris will be master of ceremonies.

The three course meal will be provided by Sarah Ashe Catering, complemented by still and sparkling

Looking part: Judy Stone, proprietor of Influence on Dusk clothing boutique, contemplates hats for the racing season. wines served to decorated tables.

The event will be held undercover as horses gallop around the track and bets are laid, possibly guided by the guest tipster for the day.

Stony Creek Racing Club president Paul Boag will welcome guests to the meet.

Club CEO Ralph Gallagher said the club is proud to be continuing the Stony Creek tradition of hosting a special function for women.

Everything you need Race ready: Kate Sperling has everything she needs this spring, including a fascinator, bracelets and Lily Rose shoes from L. C. Excessorise on McCartin Street, Leongatha.

“Stony Creek is a beautiful racecourse that really looks at its best when there are lots of people enjoying themselves,” he said.

Many local businesses have contributed prizes to be raffled during the afternoon.

Judy and Susan from Influence on Dusk invite ladies to their store in Hyland Place (near IGA supermarket) to arrange beautiful racing outfits. Personal service is guaranteed.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 19

Fashions on the field POMEGRANATE Clothing in Leongatha is readying itself for a big spring racing carnival, with fashions for women of all ages.

Owner Jan Drysdale said the store had racing fashions for girls from the age of 12 to women who were “95 not out”.

Walking through the store, the validity of this statement is confirmed.

Pomegranate has absolutely everything, both demure and revealing. It caters too to bigger ladies, with wonderful and exotic dresses that don’t leave you feeling like you’re trying hard to be a teen.

While bright colours have added extra zing to spring racing fashions, Jan said black and cream had remained popular.

“What the women are doing is wearing black, but going all out with the colour with bags and shoes and other accessories,” she said.

The most in-fashion colour is a lovely coral hue, with bright green also popular. Floaty, chiffon fabrics were selling like hotcakes.

Jan said people generally came into the store “fairly open minded,” so outfits were created as they picked their way through the wide range of clothing.

“A lot of the race wear hasn’t got sleeves.

People are getting the dresses and matching them up with little jackets. The weather hasn’t been too warm. It’s pretty much anything goes, and it’s really about what people are comfortable with and the colours they’re comfortable with,” she said.

“It’s not written in stone, what to do. Which is really good, because there’s stuff here for all ages. Because we do the plus sizes we’ve got a lot of ladies going off to the Spring Carnival in Melbourne who’ve bought from our plus size range.

“Ladies are getting a couple of different dresses to wear on different days and changing the look with a couple of different jackets.”

Mixing and matching is all part of the fun and teaming up black with bright colours can really lift an outfit.

For those who believe the action on the track is restricted to the running of the horses, a visit to Pomegranate will dispel this myth.

Backing a fashion winner is just as important.

Panther’s spring sale PANTHER’S Menswear in Leongatha is your one stop shop for quality men’s fashion.

In spring, with the Melbourne and Stony Creek races beckoning it is the obvious choice for those who want to look good on the course.

It is always wise to remember that fillies are not just confined to the track.

And if you’re thinking about buying something to be seen in at the races, there is no better time than right now.

Panther’s is having a five day sale, starting today.

“It’s our mid season sale and we’ve got 25 per cent off everything in stock,” David said.

“Everything’s 25 per cent off throughout. We’ve got a lot of new season’s stock, with a whole range of new shirts. We’ve got a terrific range of jeans, a fabulous range of suits for the Spring Racing Carnival and weddings.

“We’ve got business shirts, ties, a good range of shoes and a fantastic range of men’s hats, which is one of the must-have items for the Spring Racing Carnival. We’ve got everything and it’s all 25 per cent off.”

Other bargains include suit packages that come with a shirt and tie to the value of $90.

“Alternatively we have some suits at $200,” David said.

Long time customer Michael Holloway said he had always gone to Panther’s because he always got a great deal.

“David always looks after me well. The staff are very obliging and very helpful,” he said. *The 25 per cent off sale does not include school wear or clothing hire. Nor can the savings be attained through the use of a gift voucher.

Great service: David Panther measures up long-time customer M i c h a e l Holloway for a new suit.

Denis A Hawkins: the renowned Leongatha jeweller has many unique items, including this 22 carat gold watch by Cartier.

Once coveted by celebrity stockbroker Rene Rivkin, this one-off timepiece adheres to the International Watch Code.

Stunning fashion: Jan Drysdale pictured with a pure silk, Australian made maxidress by PACO.

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Rich reward: Meg Viney and Bill Bell have worked hard on Meg’s delightful Stony Creek garden, which will be open to the public on Cup Day weekend.

Down the garden path PEOPLE love wandering through others’ gardens.

They do so to enjoy the beauty of the layout and plants and to see what looks good with what and to glean some ideas for their own gardens.

An open garden adventure has been part of the Meeniyan Art and Craft weekend for the past decade or so.

Co-ordinator June Metcalf said it began as a fund raiser and continues as such, but it has also developed into an eagerly anticipated annual event.

It’s excellent value.

Tickets cost a mere $10. They’re available at the Meeniyan Hall on Sunday of Cup Day weekend. June said that there will be a map on the back of each ticket, indicating the address of the five gardens involved in the adventure.

Three are in the town of Meeniyan and two out

in the countryside.

June said the five gardens are all different, even though most include a native theme.

“They’re all on different shaped blocks,” she said.

Meg Viney’s garden has been included as an example of one that is relatively new. Meg has worked hard to convert a paddock into an oasis of beauty and June believes people will be interested to see what Meg has been able to achieve. Perhaps in years to come, Meg might volunteer again for the event so that garden lovers can see how things have grown.

“A lot of people like to see other people’s gardens,” June continued.

“The garden adventure is a very nice day.

It’s very popular.”

And for those involved, the day helps prompt them to do the things in their garden that they have been thinking about, but not quite got around to.

“Like me!” declared June. “I tend to procrastinate.”

The $10 ticket includes free entry to the art and craft exhibition as well as Devonshire tea.

Money raised is used by the Meeniyan Progress Association for town improvements.

Cancer art exhibition AS part of Meeniyan’s growing reputation as a hub of creative arts, the town’s art gallery is hosting the Cancer Council Victoria Meeniyan Arts Awards Exhibition.

The opening night is on Tuesday November 10, between 6 and 8pm.

Part of a touring display, the exhibition features a collection of artworks, film

and writing created by professionals and amateurs as an expression of their cancer journey.

The exhibition offers the chance to learn more about the diversity of journeys with cancer and to reflect on one’s own cancer experiences.

Select works will remain on show at the Meeniyan Art Gallery until November 25.

Special exhibition: Anjee-Lee Solomon’s work Strong Heart, Strong Soul, Strong Black Woman acrylic on canvas is part of the Cancer Council Victoria Meeniyan Arts Awards Exhibition.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 21

A big weekend MORE than 75 artists are taking part in the 37th annual Meeniyan Art and Craft Exhibition.

The event is a bonanza for the town, drawing visitors from all over South Gippsland and beyond, as well as Melbourne Cup weekend holiday makers.

“People come from all over the place,” said Tarnya Wilson, a member of the Meeniyan Progress Association which runs the exhibition and associated activities.

“Tourists break their travel to call in.”

Organisers believe the exhibition, in the Meeniyan Hall, is the longest existing function of its type in the area.

Tarnya Wilson, who oversees entries and organises the community market that runs in conjunction with the event, said the exhibition is confined to Gippsland artists. She agreed the number of entries is indicative of the large pool

of creativity that exists in the region.

The exhibition will be judged by Phillip Island artist Josephine Allen.

“It is always an honour to be asked to judge,” she said. “I hope I can bring some of my expertise and passion for art to the position.”

Ms Allen is involved in visual and performing arts including theatre, writing and directing.

The exhibition will be officially opened on the Friday night of Melbourne Cup weekend

by Neville Meikle, Shire of South Gippsland citizen of the year. The opening will take the form of a wine and cheese night.

Tarnya Wilson said that 95 per cent of the items exhibited will be available for sale. The entries are diverse and include photography and craft in all mediums.

“There is a good range of craft this year,” she said.

Four artists will demonstrate their areas of expertise during the Saturday. Visitors will be

able to watch rag rug making, unusual knitting, wood burning and the creation of Paverpol dolls. Photographer David Morgan will show his skills too.

David exhibits at the Art Gallery of Inverloch and is thrilled to have retired to that seaside town because, he said, South Gippsland is a photographer’s paradise.

In the area outside the Meeniyan Hall, a community market will offer 13 stalls selling everything from plants to baked goods, sculpture, stationery, Christmas wreathes, condiments and jewellery. There will also be a sausage sizzle.

The Cup weekend exhibition is one of several special activities lined up for Meeniyan for the last quarter of the year.

The next is the 90th anniversary of the Meeniyan RSL. This will be on November 14 and will include a band playing music from the war years and skits by the “Andrews Sisters”.

90th anniversary

A REDEDICATION tree planting ceremony is to be held at Tanderra Park, Meeniyan at 11.30am on November 14, as part of the 90th anniversary of the local RSL. It will reenact the first planting of a tree in 1919 by an 11-year-old school boy, Frank Hanily in dedication to his uncle, Bill Moloney, who was killed in France during WW1. The tree was removed recently as it was unsafe.

The Meeniyan and District RSL has asked Gerard Hanily, the son of Frank Hanily, to rededicate the new tree, which will be grown from a seed of the original tree.”

Mannequin parade a big hit GOLFERS traded their spikes for heels and took to the catwalk for the Meeniyan Golf Club Mannequin Parade on Saturday, October 17.

Trendy: Janine Redpath and Col Olden showed off some very smart gear during the parade.

During the evening Leongatha Primary School music teacher Jennifer Monk performed several songs while club members Diane Byrnes, Mary Horner, Irene Holm, Marg Roe, Janine Redpath, Veronica Park, Jo Cooper and Pam Irving and male models Ian Trease, Gavin Zerbe, Col Olden, Sib Burggraaff, Michael Darmanin and Henry Mueller paraded some stunning fashions.

The new season fashions paraded to a packed house were from local stores Influence on Dusk and Panthers Mensland and owners Judy Stone along with Sue Mueller and David Panther helped models with their parade outfits to make sure everything ran smoothly.

Fun: Sib Burggraaff and Mary Horner had a lot of fun modelling for the golf club mannequin parade.

Meeniyan Art & Craft Weekend

DO DROP IN!

For a free sit down, a free drink of spring water and a FREE CARRY BAG for all those goodies you’ll be picking up all over town!

We’ll be open ALL WEEKEND (as usual) so we look forward to seeing you then!

93 Whitelaw St Meeniyan 5664 0224

The new black: Jo Cooper donned a stylish black and white outfit during the parade.

Hip: Ian Trease and Irene Holm enjoyed modelling for the recent Meeniyan Golf Club parade.

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Half a century in law

By Jane Ross JOHN Barlow will be recognised next month for his 50 years of service to the legal profession.

He will be a special guest at the Law Institute Victoria annual Legal Awards and ceremonial lunch.

His 50 years has been described by the institute’s president Danny Barlow (no relation) as “a significant milestone”.

“I’ve had a very satisfying career,” said John, “and I’m still enjoying it.

“I struck my prospective fourth generation client the other day; it’s been very rewarding acting for succeeding generations of the one family.”

And speaking of families, it has been a major highlight of his years with Birch, Ross and Barlow to welcome his only daughter Nicole Tyson into the fold. Nicole herself has been with the firm for almost 20 years. She became a partner in 2000 when John stepped back. He is now a consultant and finds himself in the office most

days of the week.

Working with Nicole “has been tremendous”.

“It’s not often you have your daughter as your boss!”

Nicole has enjoyed the experience too and is very proud of her father’s achievement.

“Fifty years is a long time,” she said.

John came to country Victoria at the suggestion of Bill Ross.

“I did my articles with Pearce and Webster who were the Melbourne agents for Birch, Ross and Atkinson,” John explained.

“I met Tony (Atkinson) and Bill and Bill asked me if I knew anyone wanting to come to the country.”

Undeterred by his starting date of April 1, John joined the firm in 1963 and was admitted to partnership in October of the same year. He spent his first two years with Bill in the Korumburra office, transferring to Leongatha in 1965.

“I’ve been here ever since!”

He has particularly enjoyed the direct contact with clients that a country legal practice has offered, rather than

Prize winner: Year 8 student Georgia Findlay with her top picture story book.

dealing with large corporations. Having easy access to the office and the relaxed atmosphere of rural living have been other bonuses.

One of the major changes John has seen in his half century with the law, is the increase in specialisation. And he thinks that that is a good thing.

“You can’t do it all.”

He said that at the start of his career, the Taxation Act for Australia and Papua New Guinea ran to 18 pages.

“Now, you wouldn’t be able to fit the Tax Act into this room!”

John sees such changes as a reflection that life has become more complex and everything moves faster.

“You can no longer say to a client ‘I’ll have to get that from Melbourne it’ll take three or four days’ because you can now do it in three or four seconds on a computer.”

There have been lots of light moments too, such as the Christmas parties of the past with guests including agents and bankers, the many characters that have graced the BRB employment roll and the cut and thrust of court appearances.

“We used to do our own.”

Significant milestone: Leongatha lawyer John Barlow, will be recognised by the Law Institute for his 50 years of service to the legal profession. He is pictured with his daughter Nicole Tyson.

And in those days, none of the drunk drivers BRB represented received a conviction. There was a special formula for achieving such a result, but John wasn’t prepared to reveal it.

John is winding down his working life to spend more time in the garden, enjoying his seven grandchildren and improve his golf swing. The latter, he admitted, needs a bit more input.

LSC’s Georgia is picture perfect A LEONGATHA Secondary College student took out the Year 8 picture storybook category at the recent Coal Creek Literacy Festival.

Georgia Findlay’s tale, called Sammy’s Island, was about a walrus and otter that race each other, which is based on the classic story of the hare and the tortoise.

“There were all these animals on an island and there’s a walrus and an otter and the walrus said he could beat the otter to the island in swimming,” she said.

“Then they race and the otter thinks he’s better, so he just lays down to sleep and the walrus overtakes him and wins the race. Then they have a party.”

The front cover of the Meeniyan resident’s book is a picture of a beach, otter, walrus and palm tree with a few birds.

Georgia said the walrus’ face and tusks made him the hardest character to draw.

“I like drawing for young kids, because you make it colourful,” she said.

Leongatha Secondary College’s Richard Ife

said the picture story book projects were part of the English class.

“The students can have a bit of a choice about what they do, so there was one group doing picture story books, another doing poetry and a group doing short stories,” he said.

“It’s a way for them to work on a detailed project.”

Mr Ife said writing and illustrating a story can be quite a difficult task.

Other books made by Year 8s at the school involved a football game, orphanage or horror.

Lone Pine’s last stand in Dumbalk A DUMBALK tree grown from the seed of Gallipoli’s Lone Pine is in danger of falling down.

South Gippsland shire council will tie cables around the tree in an attempt to save a rotten section from collapsing.

Dumbalk identity Ed Hanley has been concerned about the tree for some time and is worried that it could injure someone if it falls during a social event at the park.

“Come out here on a windy day and you can see the gap opening and closing on the tree,” he said.

“My number one concern is the safety of people in the park.

“If it is unsafe take the branch off.”

Meeniyan and District RSL secretary Richard Lewis said he wasn’t aware that the Lone Pine tree was in the park, but thought it would be of some significance.

“Yes, I suppose it is, but public safety has to come first,” he said.

Council’s parks and gardens co-ordinator Steve Missen said saving the tree was still a possibility.

“We are going to try and keep it, so we will try to do some bracing and cabling on the tree to try to prolong its life,” he said.

“We’ve done it with other trees, depending on their significance of course, and where they are.”

Mr Missen said there was rot and weakness in one of the lateral limbs, so there is a risk that it may fall.

“By cabling it, it prevents it from swaying in the wind and busting off,” he said.

“You can put a series of bolts through the main trunk of the tree and then stretch a cable across the limb that may fall, to strengthen and support it.

The tree was grown from the seed of the famous Lone Pine, which was the only tree standing on a war battered Gallipoli hillside.

Lone Pine was the location for one of the fiercest battles of World War I. The Australians lost 2273 men, and the Turks lost at least 4000.

The battle had taken place in an area the size of two soccer fields.

Of the nine Victoria Crosses awarded to Australians at Gallipoli, seven were earned at Lone Pine.

Risky business: Ed Hanley (left) puts a hacksaw blade into the trees’s hole while Richard Powell looks on.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 23

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Braving cold for inlet’s sake DIVERS inspected seagrass in Corner Inlet recently to keep an eye on the health of the waterway.

Volunteers from the Sea Search Corner Inlet Broad-leaf seagrass Condition Assessment project braved cool spring waters to assess the state of seagrass.

On the Saturday, six volunteers visited Duck Point Channel and Tin Mine Cove, joined by Jacqui Pocklington, marine programs co-ordinator with the People and Parks Foundation, and Jonathon Stevenson, marine ranger with Parks Victoria.

The following Sunday, seven volunteers met staff to explore Nooramunga Marine and Coastal Park to find new sites at Port Albert Channel and near Snake Island.

Corner Inlet is an internationally significant coastal wetland and contains the only significant broad-leaf seagrass meadows in Victoria.

Broad-leaf seagrass is essential to

the ecology of Corner Inlet as the basis of the inlet’s food web and home to marine life.

This seagrass has declined in Corner Inlet over the past 30 years and monitoring the condition of the seagrass is vital to looking after the health of the inlet.

The foundation, with support from Parks Victoria, West Gippsland CMA and SEAL Diving Services, has recently been successful in obtaining a Community Coastcare, Caring for our Country grant to help assess the health and condition of Corner Inlet seagrass.

Volunteer support will be crucial in the success of this project and the grant will help provide for boat hire, lunch and fuel vouchers to volunteers, to help people attend these vital monitoring days.

Another spring monitoring weekend is scheduled for November 7 and 8 to gather more data from a range of sites.

New volunteers are always welcome and the project would benefit

Inverloch cenotaph THE Inverloch RSL Sub Branch wishes to incorporate the WW1 monument which was located on the corner of Reilly Street and Bayview Avenue, into the new Memorial Garden when re-established in the new “Inverloch Hub”.

Their preferred option is to have the monument relocated in its original form, and they have the support of all local associated bodies and service groups on this matter.

At this stage they have the support of local Councillor Ross Smith, but are aware there may be some opposition to this from the local Shire Council. They are seeking the support of the local community to indicate to Bass Coast Shire Council the general feeling on this project.

So a Petition is circulating in the local area, and people are asked to take part in the appropriate manner where they see the forms.

The memorial was successfully removed in one piece from its original site and is currently located in the Inverloch Industrial Area where it is undergoing a complete refurbishment. When completed it will continue to be an outstanding memorial to those who paid the supreme sacrifice.

from the formation of a permanent friends group.

Volunteers should at least be competent snorkelers although having a scuba diving qualification would be an advantage.

Interested volunteers should call either Jacqui Pocklington on 03 8627 4615 or Jonathon Stevenson on 5683 9000.

Sea Search is a foundation marine program to engage volunteers in monitoring marine protected areas in Victoria.

Volunteers are taught how to protect their local marine area and taught scientific skills to identify animals and plants.

Data collected by Sea Search volunteers is used by Parks Victoria and other management authorities to effectively manage and protect marine and coastal areas.

For further information on this and other Marine Connections programs run by People and Parks Foundation, visit www.peopleandparks.org

On deck: the volunteer team. Back: Tim Forster, Ross Robinson, Heather Magginn, Jacqui Pocklington, Steven Dodd and Jonathon Stevenson. Front: Tom Robinson and Jo James.

Inset, Up close: volunteers Ross Robinson and Rob Timmers measure seagrass.

Apples on the desk MEDIA and graphics students at Leongatha Secondary College will benefit from the latest Apple iMacs.

They’ll be able to use the most up-to-date software on industrystandard machines to complete projects.

Media teacher Owen Top said the computers allow the school to run software they couldn’t before.

“We now have professional level editing software on four computers; previously we only had it on two,” he said.

The state-of-the-art technology brings other benefits too.

“When kids go off to university or work they are already familiar with the operating systems and software they are going to be using,” Mr Top said.

“A lot of schools run Windows personal computers for media and as soon as their kids get to uni they have to learn how to use a whole new computer.”

One Leongatha student from the class of 2008 said many other students had to spend a few months learning how to use an Apple computer at the start of their university course.

Apple iMacs have the added advantage of being less likely to crash during video editing.

Year 12 media students can produce a piece of work using a medium such as magazine, movie, animation or games for one of their biggest assessments of the year.

One animation was about a boy growing up and experiencing cruelty from his family.

Another movie followed the trials of a gorilla adopted by a family.

Meals roster (Leongatha)

S. Birch, St Peter’s Ladies Guild and Joy Hayward will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning November 2, 2009.

Top technology: Leongatha Secondary College media teacher Owen Top with a new Apple iMac.

Banding together

Light-hearted tunes: the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band performed at the monthly gathering of the South Gippsland Jazz Society recently.

Society president Ross Owen (middle) joined musicians Andrew Hunt and Alicia Cruickshank after the show, which largely featured old favourites from Australia and the world.

Jazz nights are held at the Inverloch RSL in Bolding Place on the third Saturday of the month from 7.30pm.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 25

Giving back to South Gippsland

By Jane Ross THE stresses faced by the families of those with mental illness are enormous.

They have borne the brunt of the closure in the 1980s and 90s of the institutions which used to house the seriously mentally ill.

The theory of treating the mentally ill in the community is all very well, but families have to manage the result.

Some assistance is available but it is not nearly enough.

Joanne Drury has written her doctoral thesis on the subject and she is now a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.

She said a huge theme that emerged in her research was the worry middle aged parents have about what will happen to their mentally ill sons and daughters when they are no longer able to care for them.

Joanne grew up in Leongatha, the daughter of Dina and Graeme Drury.

She still lives in South Gippsland.

She went to Leongatha Secondary College and is in the probably unique position of having been educated locally, gained a doctorate and is employed in the district as a clinical psychologist. She is considering going into private practice.

When Joanne was presented with

her testamur or doctoral certificate at Monash University, there was no more proud onlooker than her mother. Joanne paid tribute to the support her family, particularly her husband Colin and Dina gave her as she juggled a family and studies.

The latter dragged on for 10 years!

How did she manage to stick with it?

“Sheer perseverance,” Joanne replied. “It’s been a long time.

“But, I just had an end goal and had to focus on it.

“I’m excited, it’s finally sinking in.”

When Joanne was at school, her great love was music and she pursued tertiary studies in that field. But her interest waned and she decided to work as a nanny while she considered her future.

In 1993, she began an undergraduate psychology degree at Latrobe University.

The die was cast.

She finished her honours year in 1997 and was tossing up between specialising in clinical or neuro psychology. The latter looks at how brain injury impacts on behaviour, while the former works with those with serious mental illness.

“I chose clinical because it’s broader,” said Joanne.

Her thesis on the experience of family carers of people with mental illness quickly showed Joanne that such carers are “amazing”, but their lives are restricted by their care demands.

“It can even be difficult for them to go away for a weekend. It’s never ending. Even when the person is not acutely ill, there is always the worry.”

Joanne is hoping to publish some of her research in academic journals, but believes organisations like the Mental Illness Fellowship are in a better position than she to lobby governments on behalf of families.

“One of the really interesting things I found was that carers who are able to maintain their own lives, even to a small degree, had fewer mental health issues themselves.

“Being able to have that time out makes an enormous difference.

“That’s why carer support groups are so popular.”

Joanne said there are huge gaps in the provision of mental health services in South Gippsland, although the introduction of Medicare rebates for seeing a psychologist “has made a huge difference”.

“There is room for improvement.

If you asked the case managers I work with, they’d all say they were over worked.”

Town garage sale TAKE advantage of the Buffalo Community Garage Sale day on Saturday.

There’ll be stalls around the town’s store and at 10 places in the area.

Sale day begins at 8am on October 31 and continues until 3pm.

Start at the Buffalo store and check out some of the items available from outside vendors and pick up a map to the other sale locations nearby.

There’ll be bric-a-brac, electrical items, hardware and furniture among the plethora of things available.

An estimated 700 people took advantage of the Buffalo Community Group Garage Sale day last year.

“It took me a bit by surprise and because it was so good we thought we’d do it again,” group treasurer John Lockwood said.

“There are a number of people down here who are very good at acquiring things and some of the same people aren’t having sales again this year.”

There’s plenty of parking space for everyone and you’ll be able to pick up a sausage from the barbecue.

Hard work: after 10 years of study, Joanne Drury is now a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.

Anglers in demand

RESEARCHERS monitoring Victoria’s fisheries are looking for a good haul of dedicated recreational fishers to target Anderson Inlet.

Last year: the successful Buffalo Community Garage Sale day is on again on October 31.

Anglers chasing dusky flathead and estuary perch in the inlet weekly to fortnightly are needed to record their catches.

Acting executive director Fisheries Victoria, Anthony Hurst, is encouraging anglers to become volunteer angler diarists.

“Angler diarists collect information about growth, spawning success, survival and catch trends, which inform the sustainable management of fish stocks,” he said.

“Information about under-size fish has been particularly valuable in the past, especially for snapper and bream fisheries.

“Equipped with special diaries and rulers, anglers can use their fishing gear and local knowledge to turn everyday fishing trips into valuable research expeditions.”

Diarists record what they catch,

where they catch it and how long they fish for.

“It is an early indicator of years of strong and weak recruitment, which allows management actions to be assessed well in advance,” Mr Hurst said.

“The Victorian angler diary program has been running for more than 15 years and the information from anglers has been so useful to fisheries managers that the program is expanding.”

Mr Hurst said scientists from the Fisheries Research Branch at Queenscliff are especially interested in engaging with anglers.

“The diary anglers receive updates that keep them informed about how their records are contributing to the overall monitoring of fish stocks and related projects and are part of a valuable team that contributes significantly to improved fisheries management outcomes,” he said.

People interested in becoming angler diarists, or wanting to know more about Fisheries Victoria’s angler diary program, should contact Matt Ward on 5258 0111 or matt.ward@dpi.vic.gov.au

Fond farewell to Mavis Zenner

MAVIS Zenner, who was known throughout South Gippsland for her golf and her sponge cakes, has died at the age of 90.

She was born in Leongatha on May 17 1919, the first child of Louisa and George Drowley.

Her parents were farming at Fairbank and after a stint in Melbourne, moved to a soldier settlement block at Boorool.

There, Mavis’s sister Beryl (later Mrs Jim Geary) was born.

As the eldest, Mavis helped on the farm and didn’t go to school until she was eight, when there were enough children to establish the Boorool State School. It opened on her birthday. She completed Grade Eight and left at 13 to work on the farm.

Continuing her education by correspondence, Mavis gained her Intermediate Certificate, following that with a Commercial Art Diploma, which took her

six years to complete.

Her delight in painting remained with her all her life and her work was eagerly sought after at local art shows. Some hangs in the Leongatha Golf Club.

Three days after gaining her art diploma, she married Reg Cashin, settling in Boorool on a farm across the road from Reg’s brother Norm. The family moved to Koorooman East, Leongatha South then Leongatha.

Reg was a dairy farmer and well known sportsman in the district, who made extra income buying and developing or leasing out other farms.

Mavis devoted her time to her three children and when they were old enough to go to secondary school, she started a career as an art teacher at Leongatha High, remaining in that position part time for 25 years.

She and Reg were active members of the Leongatha Tennis Club, playing in competitions around South Gippsland and

in the Latrobe Valley until well in their 50s, devoting years to coaching youngsters on Saturday mornings. While at the tennis courts, Mavis and her sister-in-law Marge Cashin, would watch people playing on the adjacent golf course. They joined Woorayl Golf Club, teaching themselves the game.

Mavis went on to be president, captain and treasurer of the Leongatha Golf Club. She won the club ladies’ championship, senior ladies’ championship and was honoured with a life membership. Reg sponsored a singles competition for lady members called the Cashin Trophy.

Her sponge cakes were a highlight of family celebrations and many local functions.

While her family was the centre of her life, Mavis also harboured a passion for football. She followed Hawthorn and even on the last two evenings before her death on September 20, she asked that the television be tuned to the channel show-

ing the preliminary finals. She also loved horse racing and had an uncanny knack of picking winners.

Mavis followed closely the lives of her grandchildren, then her great grandchildren After Reg died at a young age, Mavis married Cam Zenner, whom she had met when they were both captains at the Leongatha Golf Club. They enjoyed many holidays together and were foundation members of the Inverloch Probus Club.

When Cam died, Mavis was supported

by South Gippsland Legacy and its war widows clubs and she attended and enjoyed their activities in Cam’s honour.

Later, she became friends with Les James, whom she had also known through the golf club. He introduced Mavis to regular nights out at the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club. Les died earlier this year.

Mavis will be remembered as a remarkable woman who was kind, generous and had limitless love for everyone.

Mavis Zenner: will be remembered for her kindness, generosity and sporting interests.

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 27

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 29

THIS stunning historic homestead at Mirboo North will be auctioned by SEJ and Pat Rice Hawkins on November 14.

Read about it in SEJ’s advertisement on page 35.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

The region’s covered STOCKDALE & Leggo offers the best real estate coverage in the region.

Quality built family home P

RIME location is a term commonly used in real estate advertising and for this Leongatha property it certainly rings true.

Situated only a few minutes walk from the shops and a stone’s throw from kinder and day care facilities, those looking for convenience won’t be disappointed.

Built about 15 years ago by a reputable local builder, the home is in excellent condition and has moved with the times with its colour schemes and functional design.

Upon entering the home, the entertainer will be immediately drawn to the covered outdoor area with access

from the dining area via a sliding door, which adds natural light and a practical walkway onto the wet area.

The formal living room is quite spacious and includes another area designed for a dining table, play area or home office space.

There are three bedrooms positioned at the opposite end to the living areas, with the master bedroom boasting an en suite and walk-in robe.

The main bathroom has quality fittings and includes a separate bath and shower.

The block is neat, level and low maintenance with secure fencing and room to move for those with children, pets or even a green thumb.

A carport and lock-up garden shed complete this attractive package.

Both young families and retirees alike will appreciate the appeal of this home, so contact Stockdale & Leggo for an inspection as this is a price range hard to come by for a quality brick veneer.

At a glance Location: 27 Allison Street, Leongatha.

Price: $298,000.

Sole agent: Stockdale & Leggo, Leongatha.

Contact: 5662 5800.

They recently opened a new office at Korumburra to complement their existing branches in Leongatha and Mirboo North.

Properties listed in one office will be promoted in the others, exposing them to more buyers, more often.

At Korumburra Jason Harris is the branch manager, John O’Connor the sales consultant and Amy Gillies the receptionist.

Mr O’Connor said Stockdale & Leggo was very pleased with their early success in Korumburra.

“I listed a house on Friday, October 16 and it was under contract three days later,” he said.

“We’re about to start running a series of open for inspections, which is a good way to showcase your home.”

Korumburra is a little closer to Melbourne than Leongatha, and Stockdale & Leggo will be targeting suburban buyers by opening on Saturday afternoon when they are around.

Mr O’Connor is a real estate veteran, with many certificates hanging on his office wall recognising his sales achievements over the years.

He will continue to list and sell properties in Leongatha as well.

“I see myself as the broker of the deal and a good deal is when at the end of the day both the buyer and the seller are happy, and both will deal with me next time,”

Mr O’Connor said.

Apart from selling residential homes, the three office network will also come in handy for selling farms and lifestyle properties.

“We’ve had great success so far this year, with the rural market selling four dairy farms in a depressed market and several more grazing properties,” Mr O’Connor said.

The 90 Stockdale & Leggo offices across Victoria can refer potential buyers to properties listed in South Gippsland.

The Korumburra office will also be leasing homes and commercial properties.

Rentals are desperately needed as people are already calling into the office looking for homes.

Korumburra resident Amy Gillies is the friendly face in the front office.

She said it was wonderful to work with a true professional like Mr O’Connor in the Korumburra office.

Amy will begin training in property management shortly.

Townhouses on Princes Street are among the Korumburra listings already available from Stockdale & Leggo.

You can buy the two and three bedroom townhouses off the plan for $215,000 to $269,000.

“People who get in early will save on stamp duty and have opportunities to have some input on choice of things like carpet and tiles,” Mr O’Connor said.

Stockdale & Leggo’s Korumburra office is at 34 Commercial Street.

A relaxing outlook P

OSITIONED in a quiet area of Mirboo North and overlooking the prominent Vic Rail Trail onto the recreation reserve, this character-filled home is on a large allotment (about a quarter of an acre).

Features of the home include a lounge with new floor coverings that opens into a generous-sized family area with parquetry flooring. The modern open plan kitchen has an abundance of cupboard space, electric cooking, dishwasher and granite benchtop.

Of the three bedrooms that the home has, two of them feature built-in robes and all are of a generous size.

Heating is by way of a split system air conditioner and having been freshly painted, there is little or no work to be done on the home.

Externally the home has rear lane access that enables the owners to drive into the new timber double garage which has concrete floor and power.

Other improvements include a large rear deck off the kitchen and front verandah.

The home has been re-wired, re-roofed, re-plumbed, freshly painted and restumped and it’s within level walking distance of the shops.

It would be ideal for the family, investor, first home buyer or retiree.

At a glance Location: 22 Inglis Avenue, Mirboo North.

Price: $279,000.

Agent: Stockdale & Leggo, Mirboo North.

Contact: Brent Harriage 5668 1300.

New office: Stockdale & Leggo’s John O’Connor and Amy Gillies are ready to help with your real estate needs in Korumburra.

Auction action

NINE Kenneth Street, Inverloch was sold at auction for $350,000 on October 17.

It was sold to a Melbourne-based person for a holiday home and investment property.

The Alex Scott & Staff, Inverloch auction attracted more than 30 people, with spirited bidding between two people for the three bedroom beach home.

Mike Wrigley said the sale further confirmed a strong market in coastal Inverloch.

The home also had a north-facing rear yard and new kitchen.

Also on October 17, 10 Main Street, Buffalo was auctioned for $114,000.

There were 41 people watching the auction of the three bedroom, centrally located home on a 1600 square metre block.

It was auctioned by PBE Real Estate, Venus Bay under instructions from the mortgagee.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 31

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

At a glance Location: 29 Minns Road, Koonwarra.

Price: $675,000.

Sole Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Leongatha.

Contact: 5662 0922.

Tranquillity on 16 acres

OCATED close to the quaint village of Koonwarra, this gently undulating property is just over 12 months old and would suit the retiring farmer or a family.

It boasts three large bedrooms, plus study.

The kitchen includes gleaming laminate benchtops and cupboards, wall oven and hotplates.

There’s a cathedral ceiling with windows in the A frame of the roof and a large living area featuring reverse cycle air conditioning, cosy wood heating, and tiled flooring.

The home also boasts a formal dining and lounge room, with a beautiful outlook across the property.

A large laundry with cupboards, benchtop and under bench cupboards,

provides all the space you need for your laundry needs.

The bathroom features both a bath and a shower, and the en suite also includes a shower and spa bath.

Outside there is an undercover outdoor area with timber railing, and views of the sweeping lawns.

A spring fed dam provides water to troughs and the sprinkler system for watering the lawns and gardens.

The home has been positioned and designed to encapsulate the beautiful and private surrounds.

Sit anywhere in the house, or on the large undercover deck area and you can admire your beautiful park-like setting leading into the grazing paddocks and beyond.

Just relax and enjoy the lifestyle...it doesn’t get much better than this.

A U CT I O N

PRESTIGIOUS SALE IRRIGATION FARM “SOMERTON PARK"

Thursday, November 12, at 1pm ON SITE – SOMERTON PARK ROAD, SALE

Live in Somerset

80.9ha (200 acres) right on edge of Sale, 5km from post office. Magnificent 56 square under roof home with 7 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 dining rooms, formal lounge sitting room, study/ office, verandah on 3 sides. Original home built in 1880's with extensions in early 1900's. Water is a feature of the property with 218.5ml high reliability, 103ml low reliability, and 120ml bore water. Presently farmed as a dairy farm with 14-a-side double-up dairy, feed system with 2 silos, 3 vats, 8400 litre storage. Good fertiliser history, 18 paddocks, excellent soil, laser graded, shedding includes 30m x 12m machinery shed with 2 lock-up bays with power, large hay shed and sharefarmer’s cottage. Property has potential for subdivision subject to council approval, in one title with three crown allotments.

236 Raymond Street, Sale – Phone 51 444 575 Tony Baillie 0412 244 442 120 Johnson Street, Maffra – Phone 5147 1088 Tim Missen 0488 483 000

T

HIS quality, well maintained brick home is conveniently located in Somerset Crescent, close to schools, Jeffrey Street medical clinic and an easy short walk to the shops.

hooker2x10

L

The home is immaculate and complete inside and out.

As you enter through the front door you are greeted with a large bright and open L shaped living and dining room with space for two lounges and dining if required.

Leading off the dining is the new kitchen, with electric oven and cook top

and ample storage.

There are three good sized bedrooms, all with built-in robes, near new bathroom with a bath, separate shower, plus excellent storage space.

Not only has the home had a new kitchen and bathroom recently, it has also had new carpet throughout, down lights installed for extra lighting in lounge and bathroom, new hot water service, meter box and feature outdoor lighting.

Outside, established simple low maintenance gardens complete the home.

The block is flat and has a secure private backyard, a single lock-up garage with concrete floor and power is accessible through the carport.

At a glance Location: 5 Somerset Crescent, Leongatha.

Price: $295,000.

Agent: Elders, Leongatha.

Contact: Zel Svenson 0438 636 290.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 33

Tips for negotiating property prices

SELLING or buying a property represents one of the biggest financial transactions a person will undertake, and achieving the right price can be one of the hardest and most stressful things to do.

Prom Country First National Real Estate principal, Allen Bartlett says the number one tip when negotiating is to do it quickly.

“Whether you are buying or

selling a property, a protracted, drawn out negotiation process can cost thousands in the wash up,” Allen said.

“The buyer can get frustrated and decide to seek greener pastures elsewhere, or the seller may decide to go with a better offer that comes along.

“Either way, it is in no one’s interest to draw out negotiations.

Everyone ends up a winner if agreement is reached in a speedy fashion.”

For buyers, a successful negotiation starts with an offer in

writing first, according to Allen.

“Written offers are a sign of a stronger commitment by the purchaser to the property, and are harder for the vendor to disregard,” Allen said.

“This commitment, evidenced by an actual contract, may be more attractive to the seller than other more lucrative offers.”

Allen said one of the most effective negotiation tools for sellers is the services of an experienced and reputable real estate agent who has strong local

industry knowledge.

Negotiation tips for buyers • Make sure you do your homework in advance of any offer.

• Establish why the owners are selling to determine their priorities.

• Make offers as realistic as possible - there is not always a lot of room for movement on price so unrealistic offers may only discredit your intentions.

• When offering less than the asking price, make contract conditions attractive to the seller.

• Be prepared to pay a little bit more for a good property in a good area.

• Put offers in writing so the seller can see your serious intent.

• Be clear on any timeframes around your offer for example, set a timeline for the owner to provide an answer, if they are indecisive.

• A good deposit can help tip the scales in your favour.

Negotiation tips for sellers: • Be realistic - set your price based on fact, rather than

emotion.

• Request a written offer to see how serious the buyer is.

• Don’t waste time acting on the offer - don’t run the risk of losing the buyer, it may take a while to find another one.

• Be willing to compromise, particularly on small matters and consider ways to give them a sense of value.

• Look at all the conditions of the buyer’s offer, not just the price.

Seek advice from those qualified to give it.

Y N DA PE UR O AT S IS

TH

Tuscan summers NERRENA At the end of a private lane is this 10-acre epitomy of country living. A delightfully renovated 3BR home with wood-fired heater and big picture windows, picturesque dam, and 6 acres of income-producing olive trees! Exotic garden, fruit trees, veggie patch, paddock with loading ramp, & huge storage shed.

Address 15 Hanks Road, Nerrena via Leongatha To Suit Buyers $495,000 - $540,000

live in or rent out LEONGATHA This young townhouse features 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, and garage with direct access & remote control door.

Open Sat 11-11.30am Address 17/4 Miles Court, Leongatha To Suit Buyers $210,000 - $225,000

Y N DA E R P O ATU S S HI

live & work ‘in the tropics’ STONY CREEK Resort style living or home-based business on 2+ acres.

Open plan 3 bedroom home with spa ensuite, huge colorbond work shed plus showroom/ rumpus room.

Covered outdoor deck, and a resort-style lagoon with sand beaches, timber entertaining decks, rock waterfall and fountain, Balinese hut and even palm trees!

Address 21-25 Stony Creek-Dollar Rd, Stony Creek To Suit Buyers $300,000 - $330,000

‘rent buster’ MEENIYAN This two bedroom unit with a sheltered porch, private verandah and its own yard is approximately 400m from Meeniyan’s shops. Features include sunny northerly aspect to the kitchen and living room, reverse cycle air conditioner, BIRs and fresh paintwork. Carport URL, and garden shed. Get off the treadmill!

Address 2/56 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan To Suit Buyers $150,000 - $165,000

N AY P E ND O SU IS TH

T

under

ct a r t n c the ‘WOW’ factor - just bring the butler LEONGATHA Why bother building? 3 amazing living spaces include a theatre room, massive informal lounge and a rumpus which opens directly onto the purpose built al fresco dining area. The stunning kitchen has SS appliances and an adjoining “Butler’s Pantry” featuring 2nd sink and 2nd dishwasher. The master bedroom suite is stunning too, with a doorless shower, and separate loo. Room for generous dining and big furniture for lounging! Don’t pass this buy!

Open Sat 12-12.30pm Address 5 Eleanor Court, Leongatha To Suit Buyers $380,000-$415,000

a country-lane cottage – fishing or golf?

KORUMBURRA A story book cottage, with astounding views, in a quiet country lane close to the golf club and trout fishing? Yes! Set on a very gently sloping small acreage, the 3 bedroom + study, 2 storey home is elegant, country-style. Quality timber floors and carpets, dado paneling, decorative cornices and rosettes, split system air conditioner and wood heater, covered deck with incomparable outlooks across gorgeous gardens & endless green rolling hills. Just magic...

Open Sun 12-12.30pm Address 30 Henrys Lane, Korumburra To Suit Buyers $340,000-$375,000

N AY P E ND O SU IS TH

“Erinae” – the very essence of a country life MIRBOO NORTH Set amidst a profusion of private, English country gardens, this expansive, picture-perfect homestead offers solutions for a variety of “country life” wish-lists. The residence has two distinct zones. Presently used as spacious private living quarters, with adjoining tea room/show room, easy alternatives also exist for dual occupancy (ideal in-law), or a B&B enterprise. Two kitchens, three spacious living zones, 3 king-sized bedrooms, two bathrooms and wide verandas to three sides provide the options. The property is more than 4 acres of productive plantings including about an acre of lavender with drying facility and equipment, cricket bat willows, 6 megalitre dam, mature exotics, vegetable and cottage gardens and spellbinding views across neighbouring farm lands. Just a couple of kilometres from Mirboo North on the Leongatha side, this property is the quintessentially romantic answer to your country getaway yearnings.

Open to inspect Sunday 1.00 -1.30pm Address 3370 Strzelecki Highway, Mirboo North To Suit Buyers y $625,000 - $675,000

LAND LISTINGS

To Suit Buyers

NERRENA: Meeniyan-Nerrena Road. 13 acres, planning permit, house plans & horse habitat $190,000 - $210,000 KOONWARRA: 7 Koala Drive. 1900sqm, town zoned, in heart of retail precinct

$190,000 - $210,000

TOORA: 380 Lamont Drive, Toora. 6+ acres, planning permit, 360º views, 9km to town

$180,000 - $198,000

allen bartlett 0417 274 624

kaz hughes 0417 516 998

glenys foster

lisa williams ms

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 35

Walk to the Inlet H

Start your investment portolio now W

ITH the recent sale of six retail shops, and a commercial vacant block, things have started to bubble in Meeniyan.

And with prospective tenants making enquiries daily for residential properties to rent in and around Meeniyan, the residential investment market is also on the move.

You couldn’t go wrong with this

At a glance Location: Unit 2, 56 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan.

Price range: $150,000$165,000.

Agent: Prom Country First National, Meeniyan.

Contact: Kaz 5664 0224 or 0417 516 998.

two bedroom rear unit right in the town.

Recently repainted and made “tenant ready”, it offers a sunny open plan living room, two bedrooms with built-in robes, carport and really decent yard.

Elevated outlooks and just a short stroll into the Meeniyan shops will be attractive to tenants, as will be the quiet position it enjoys as one of only two units on the block. Estimated to

be able to rent at between $180 and $200 per week in the present market, this unit represents an excellent return at a price range offered between $150,000 - $165,000.

Or, for those wanting a very cost effective little home, away from the big towns, this unit will be ideal.

To inspect please contact the agent, Kaz at Prom Country First National, on 5664 0224, or 0417 516 998.

ERE are 22 squares of luxurious living at Venus Bay.

This western red cedar home boasts four bedrooms, the master with a full en suite.

The second bedroom is huge and features a parents’ retreat.

High ceilings, dado walls, quality carpets and tiles, and reverse cycle air conditioning are just some of the features this home offers.

The spacious lounge room comes with

At a glance Location: 36 Fisherman’s Road,Venus Bay. Price: $345,000.

Agent: Alex Scott & Staff,Venus Bay. Contact: Robb Lawrie 5663 7111.

Miranz furniture, Bose sound system and plasma television.

The chef in you will delight in the modern spacious kitchen with walk-in pantry.

There’s also a double garage and car port.

All this and more; only a one minute walk to Anderson Inlet and boat launching facilities.

Inspection is a must for discerning buyers.

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Space and serenity W

HAT a great home and location, with outstanding long-term prospects.

Gordon Avenue in Inverloch is a quiet and peaceful location, with a treed ambience that makes this the ideal property for a young family or holiday maker.

The home is on about 1000

square metres of prime real estate in a sought after location for its closeness to school and shops.

It is solid, with multiple living areas, including a bar and open plan kitchen and dining.

There are three bedrooms with built-in robes, main bathroom and spacious laundry.

A delightful and spacious rear

At a glance Location: 28 Gordon Avenue, Inverloch.

Auction: Saturday, November 21 on site at 12 noon.

Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Inverloch.

Contact: 5674 1111.

yard is accessible from both sides of the home and complemented with a double lock-up garage and single carport.

This is a solid investment, family home or development site (subject to council approval).

Twenty-eight Gordon Avenue is open for inspection every Saturday from 12 noon.

“The Cliffs” T

HIS is the most desired and admired property on the coast near Inverloch and justifiably called the iconic property of the area.

The 80 acre farm is just 5kms from Inverloch town centre, with the front boundary within a “stone’s throw” of the cliffs and ultimately the beach and water.

The homestead is thought to have been built in the early 1890s and has a charming timber lined lounge room with fireplace, quaint French doors onto front verandah and water views.

The main bedroom has open fireplace and French doors onto the front verandah and water views from two different directions.

There’s also a second pretty bedroom with some water views, and third bedroom that opens onto the huge 6.25m x 7.6m atrium.

The country style kitchen/meals area has the 900mm gas stove set in the old brick chimney, long island bench, double doors onto verandah and outdoor living area.

There is a long hallway, two bathrooms and a laundry.

All the rooms have 12 foot ceilings.

The verandah is on four sides, with some great water views.

The homestead is set in an attractive established garden with century old cypress (beautifully trimmed to show off the views), a good variety of trees and shrubs plus a large covered fernery.

A double garage has a workshop area and single carport.

The 80 acres is gently undulating fertile pastures that currently run 45 cows and calves, with some absolutely stunning views to suit another home, subject to council approval.

There is plenty of water, with five stock dams and seven paddocks.

The cattle yards have a steel crush and a loading race.

It is going to auction on Saturday, November 14 at 1pm on site with an anticipated selling price in the range of $2.75 to $3 million.

Those wanting to in-

spect the property can contact Harcourts of Inverloch 5671 1212 or Lewis Stone 0407 505 141 or it can be viewed at www.inverloch. harcourts.com.au.

At a glance Location: 130 Cape Paterson Road, Inverloch.

Auction: Saturday, November 14 at 1pm on site.

Agent: Harcourts, Inverloch.

Contact: Lewis Stone 5671 1212 or 0407 505 141.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 37

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star One year ago, October 26, 2008 Anderson Inlet is officially free of the notorious pest, Northern Pacific Seastar. Divers inspected the seabed recently and were glad to return to the surface empty handed. To date, 229 seastars have been removed – a relief considering one female can produce 20 million eggs. **** Kardella South daredevil Tristan Wilson is flying high as a freestyle motocross rider. The 21-year-old is in demand as a stunt demonstrator around the district and as far as New South Wales.

Five years ago, October 26, 2004 South Gippsland Shire Council has received a prestigious award recognising outstanding research. Environmental health officers Callum Morrison and Skye Scott undertook the research and were honoured by the Victorian Division of the Australian Institute of Environmental Health. **** Mirboo North Secondary College is celebrating state success after the school’s girls Under 17 relay side won the 4x100m relay at the Victorian State Secondary Schools Athletics Championships.

10 years ago, October 26, 1999 Young cricketer Dean Mathews devastated Inverloch’s batting list when he took an astonishing eight wickets for Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club. The Under 16s player took 8/19 from 10 overs, leaving Inverloch all out for 51, chasing Workmen’s 129. **** The doors of St Peter’s Anglican Church in Leongatha have opened for the first time since April after cracks in the brickwork forced the church to close. Steel braces, brackets, plates and expansion joints were fitted, making the church as safe as ever.

October 30, 1979 The five students of Wooreen Primary School attended classes at Leongatha Primary School to mix and mingle with others.

The Wooreen kids were Brett Fisher, Grade 6; Michelle Pettitt, Prep; Danny Forrester, Grade 4; Shane Richards, Grade 2; and Brent Richards, Grade 1. **** Two croquet finals proved to be thrilling affairs when a C Grade tournament was held in Leongatha. Six clubs from across Gippsland fielded 29 competitors in the event.

Floral spectacular around corner

noon, Leongatha flower expert Rodney Emmerson will talk about preparing flowers for exhibition.

The spring show complements the society’s autumn show and is marked on gardenGardeners from ers’ calendars well in across the region and advance. beyond are now pre“I’ve always enparing their entries for joyed on the Saturday the popular event, to be morning when I’m first held by the Welshpool to open the doors and and District Horticulthe rose perfume just tural Society. about knocks you out,” The show will be Fran said. held at the Welshpool “You really know Memorial Hall on Frithe roses are on. It’s day, October 30 and just lovely.”

Saturday, October 31.

Entries close on Show secretary Wednesday, October Fran Grylls said su28. Phone Fran on perb spring condi5184 1376. tions should result in Schedules are availth spectacular entries this Magnificent blooms: 49 Spring Show secretary Fran Grylls is looking able from Welshpool forward to the latest showcase of South Gippsland gardening talent. year.

Rural Transaction “The rain will have Centre and Post Of“There will be a wedding theme this brought things on. Some of the roses are year throughout the floral arts, so we’re fice, Toora Newsagency, Lily Pilly Nursery early and we would expect a lot of oldhoping there will be a nice display of beau- at Foster and the Leongatha Horticultural fashioned roses because they always reSociety. tiful things,” Fran said. spond to moisture,” she said.

A 10kg bucket of rose food is the raffle “There will be a special display in the “Some people plan for the show for foyer with gowns and special display.” prize. Refreshments will be available from weeks. The show is a way for people to Show visitors will be able to vote in the the hall auxiliary. show off their gardens and efforts during public choice category by gold coin donaThe show will open from 1.30 until 5pm the year.” tion, with all funds raised going towards Friday and 10am to 4.30pm Saturday.

Entries from as far as Thorpdale and Prom View Lodge nursing home at Toora.

South Gippsland Secondary College Leongatha have been confirmed, with roses A plant stall and display of reference will stage an open garden fundraiser over and irises to be among the feature flowers. books will also be offered. On Friday after- the same weekend.

THE brightest blooms in South Gippsland will be exhibited at the 49th Spring Show in Welshpool this week.

Church Times ARIES - March 21 - April 20

You are in great mental form. Your wit sparkles and ideas impress.

Romantically, a week of warmth and sentimentality is beginning. In finance, small gains are offset by unexpected rises in costs.

TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

This is a good week for commitment, personally and at the work place. If you feel an injustice has been done to you, this is the time to speak up.

GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

Your world begins to get in step with you at last. It’s a good week for learning or re-learning some sport or exercise. An email or phone call may surprise you on the weekend.

CANCER - June 22 - July 22

Plans go askew later in the week, but the unflappable Cancerian makes the most of things. Your intuition is good Thursday, Friday.

A chance encounter livens up the week considerably.

LEO - July 23 - August 22

You are in an upbeat, bold and magnanimous mood and it’s all because a major family worry is fading at last - but go softly! It’s easy to overspend and over-indulge loved ones.

VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

This is a week of crosscurrents. Your domestic responsibilities are proceeding on course, but at work rough winds stir up tension.

Consequently you will be doing lots of compensating and soothing lots of ruffled feathers.

LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

Far out schemes may not succeed right now, but keep your offbeat ideas on hold for a while. Your image improves greatly in the eyes of a loved one and colleagues.

SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

Lots of small but complex errands beg your time on the weekend and a nearly forgotten job may require your attention. For singles, a splendid opportunity exists for an introduction.

SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

Entertaining can run into big dollars unless you make a conscious effort to budget. A pleasant surprise could come your way on the weekend.

CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

Fitness is the keyword. A combination of mental and physical activites should prepare you for a week that requires utter concentration and offers more than one chance for promotion.

AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

This is a week that offers such a busy schedule that you relish any solo moments. Friendship and romance are your big concerns.

Depending on your situation, introductions or reunions could be highlighted on the weekend.

PISCES - February 20 - March 20

Greater discipline and this includes an improved diet, makes for a more successful social life. In finance, ask many questions and few favours. Small risks pay off by Friday.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

When they speak of colourful personalities, they speak of you.

“They” also note your magnetism, but sometimes find that you are too involved in your interests alone. Partnerships are accented in realms of friendship.

ANGLICAN: Wednesday, October 28: 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Sunday, November 1: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Contemporary Worship with HC. ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am.

ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am.

ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion.

CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984.

THE CHURCH AT ARCHIES CREEK: Meeting every Sunday at Archies Creek. Morning Communion Service 11 am: Evening Holy Spirit Revival 6pm: Phone: Ps. Chris Chetland 5674 3867 or 5672 4660.

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD: Prom Coast Community Church Inc. - Foster Community House, Station Street, 10am: Sunday. Sunday School and Creche operates. Pastor Bill Watson 5686 2248.

A.O.G. Inverloch - Cnr Bear and McIntosh Street, Inverloch. Sunday Service 10am; Imagine Christmas Day Service 9am. Contact: Jeff Robertson, 0418 125 832 or Imagine Burwood 9888 7466.

Korumburra Southern Hills A.O.G. - 4 Mine Rd, 10am and 6pm: Sunday. Also Children’s Church and Creche. Contact: Pastor Vic Butera 5655 2478. Youth: Neville Stuart ph.

0407 343 219.

Leongatha South Gippsland Liberty Fellowship - 17 Michael Place, Leongatha.

Sunday services: 11 am and 7pm. All enquiries contact Pastor David Stegmann 5662 2785. Office: 5662 3100.

Wonthaggi A.O.G. - Billson Street, 10am: Sunday. Contact: Pastor Barry Smith 5672 3984.

CHRISTIAN REVIVAL CRUSADE: 40 Hughes Street, Leongatha.

Sunday, Morning Service 10.30 am: Inspirational Service, 6.30pm: Children’s Church 10.30am: Home cells weekly; Kids Club Thursdays 4pm Guide Hall. For all enquiries contact 5664 5455.

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST: Saturdays, Church service 10am., Leon-

gatha 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 1, 9am and 10.45am. “Life to the Max” 7pm.

Tarwin Lower: 10.30am (HC).

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.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8194

1.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

14.

18.

20.

23.

24.

25.

ACROSS Skin specialist (13) Disease (5) Performance (7) Drain (6) Border (6) Reptile (5) Concur (5) Summary (6) Singing voice (6) Learner (7) Rent (5) Port official (7-6)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

13.

15.

16.

17.

19.

21.

22.

DOWN Harm (6) Send (5) Severe (7) Monster (4) Happen (5) Extreme (7) Helm (6) Hopelessness (7) Ape (7) Support (6) Layer (6) Fruit (5) Brag (5) Drink (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8194 ACROSS 1. A toast to absent friends isn’t, just now (3,3,7). 8. The dog right on top (5). 9. As predicted, the van was wrecked (7). 10. How you said “I never travel by land”? (6). 11.

Lower me in, man! (6). 12. A bit on one side (5). 14. Something nice to eat when there’s sun - ice-cream (5). 18. Punish for putting rubbish outside the hosiptal (6). 20. Lady’s man that’s turned into a reclause (6). 23. The first few are horrible (7). 24. Row in the kitchen (5). 25. A squawk you don’t hear (6,7).

DOWN 1. Proscribed because iniquitous (6). 2. A cutter in the water (5). 3. “An athlete and sportsman,” the daughter interposed (7). 4. Are short of breath - smoke (4). 5. Somewhat cheerier, but it is spooky (5). 6. “Exotic” is nearest, though not right (7). 7. Pulling back, got victory in its grasp (6).

13. Semi-biased? (7). 15. Here I part company, about to say goodbye (7). 16. Attacks when one’s got way ahead (6). 17. A stray setter in the road (6). 19. Cut by a quarter the butter (5). 21. My own is stuffed with cold meat (5).

22. Hang on to while you look back (4).

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 39

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Mixed report for environment THE South Gippsland environment has been delivered a mixed assessment by the seventh annual Gippsland Integrated Natural Resources Forum (GINRF) Report Card.

Launching the report card at South Gippsland Secondary College at Foster recently, chair Keith Hamilton said the report card presents 20 environmental assets from Wonthaggi to Mallacoota.

Each asset was rated for both environmental condition and stewardship, evaluating how well government, industry and communities are protecting and enhancing them.

“Gippsland is blessed with a rich diversity of natural assets for which the report card provides a great opportunity to continually monitor improvement and monitor our combined efforts in protecting and enhancing these invaluable resources,” Mr Hamilton said.

South Gippsland students presented an exploration of the sustainability of Corner Inlet over time as sea levels rise through global warming. The students represented the college at the Inter-

national Youth Coastal Conference in Townsville in 2008 and Lorne in 2009.

Mr Hamilton said the younger generation is one of the major reasons to protect the natural environment.

“These students highlight the need for us to protect our natural assets and ensure they are in the best condition possible for them to enjoy into the future,” he said.

The coastal settlements within the South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires received a condition rating of C. Covering San Remo, Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson, Inverloch, Venus Bay, Sandy Point and Waratah Bay, the report found issues of erosion, waterway discharge and development affecting the towns.

Coastal reserves were found to be narrow and fragmented, high levels of erosion were present and rabbit populations are increasing.

The impact of the recent State Government decree to encourage vegetation clearing for fire prevention may become evident in the next report.

Efforts by Bass Coast Shire to improve the environment have increased the stewardship rating of the coastal

settlements to three stars.

The Walkerville Environmental Kit was noted as a fine example of communities and agencies working to improve the environment.

The Bunurong Marine National Park, between Inverloch and Cape Paterson has a condition rating of A-.

The 2100ha park is affected by a small discharge catchment and urbanisation within the catchment is resulting in more freshwater flowing into the park after rain.

Considerable data about the Bunurong region has been collected as part of the proposed desalination plant.

Monitoring is expected to continue throughout planning, development and operation of the plant.

The park has a stewardship rating of four stars, as the park is monitored by Waterwatch and Sea Search groups, as well as the Department of Fisheries and Parks Victoria.

The park continues to be threatened by agricultural and stormwater runoff.

Wilsons Promontory National Park is rated A-, as a bushfire this year will contribute to preserving certain species.

Being a national park, the Prom is well

managed and the four star stewardship rating has been maintained.

Pest plant and animal control and threatened species management programs are ongoing.

Corner Inlet retained a rating of C+.

Covering 67,000ha, the area is home to migratory birds and the world’s most southerly population of white mangroves.

Water quality in the inlet and catchment was rated moderate according to phosphorus, turbidity and dissolved oxygen monitoring results.

Turbidity is seen as a serious threat to the condition of Corner Inlet ecosystems.

The 2007 and 2009 Cathedral bushfires in Wilsons Promontory resulted in increased sediment load, however erosion from the catchment has a higher impact.

Extensive salinity, spartina and mangrove mapping has been undertaken and community monitoring via Seasearch is in place to give accurate data.

The stewardship rating has increased to three stars due to the work of the Corner Inlet Coastal Catchment

Initiative steering committee publishing its priorities document; spartina control by Parks Victoria and West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority; and extensive salinity mapping and catchment management programs to reduce nutrient and sediment flow into the inlet.

The Strzelecki Ranges were again rated C, affected by the impacts of farmland, gully erosion due to the 2007 bushfires and HVP Plantations managing plantations to minimise understorey which limits biodiversity.

The report recommended that during the next months, the Cores and Links project be finalised to protect additional forest.

Water quality was cited as reasonable but needing better management to improve and remnant species are healthy but exist in isolation.

The three-and-a-half star stewardship rating recognises the Strzelecki Integrated Management Strategy aiming to protect more land.

The Cores and Links project is expected to place another 15,000ha under covenant for permanent protection in the next 12 months.

Sea saviours meet at Welshpool COAST Guard leaders from across Gippsland converged on Port Welshpool recently for the bi-monthly meeting of the Gippsland squadron.

Commanders from the Gippsland flotillas, the squadron board and Water Police met to determine the direction of the emergency service in the region.

The Gippsland squadron consists of five flotillas: Port Welshpool, Port Albert, Lakes Entrance, Paynesville and Marlo.

“Between the five flotillas we cover some treacherous waters so we need to know that training and members are up to scratch and ensure the Coast Guard runs at a smooth professional level,” Port Welshpool flotilla commander Geoff Noad said.

The meeting was held at the Port Welshpool ferry terminal. Port Welshpool and the Gippsland squadron would like to thank the Port Welshpool Progress Association for the use of the building and catering.

Top brass: Gippsland’s Coast Guard leaders at Port Welshpool recently: deputy squadron commodore Chris Newman, Port Welshpool commander Geoff Noad, squadron commodore Alex Fowler, Lakes Entrance commander Mark Spykers, squadron admin commodore Nick Fowler, Paynesville Ccmmander David Finch, and Port Albert commander Jason Noble.

HUDSON Guymer was born on October 14 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital. Hudson is the little brother to Shayla and Ashlin. Parents Andrew and Racheal Guymer of Tarwin Lower welcome this beautiful addition to their family.

AKON Lual Akech was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on October 13 to Martha Mayola and Jacob Lual Gak of Wonthaggi. Akon is a new sister for Aguer, Deng and Akvol.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 41

MEAGAN Isabella Tuckett is a new little sister for three-year-old Cameron, and a daughter for Sarah (nee Atkin) and David Tuckett who both grew up in Leongatha but now live in Coburg. Meagan was born on September 26 at St Vincent’s Private Hospital.

SIAN Cheryl Hursey was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on September 23 to Amanda Warner and Jamie Hursey of Wonthaggi. Sian is a new sister to Zac and Tristan.

FORMER Leongatha resident Andrew Lawry and Laura Gibbs have a new baby, Georgia Isobel, born September 30, a sister to Alexandra.

SAMANTHA Ivy Milnes was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on September 30, 2009 to Lisa and Brian Milnes of Dalyston. Samantha is a new sister for Cyal and Katelyn.

ALAYNA Elizabeth Walsh was born on October 7 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital.

Alayna is the second daughter for Jacqui and Darren of Koonwarra and a little sister for Tayissa.

MIAH Jane Roberts was born on October 13 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital.

Miah is a gorgeous daughter and first child of Timothy and Katherine of Inverloch. She is the first Grandchild of Brian and Cheryl Jackson (formerly of Mirboo North) and seventh Grandchild of Peter and Maria Roberts.

ERIC William Watt was born on October 15 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital. Eric is a gorgeous little boy for Ashley and Christine of Inverloch and has two big sisters Ava and Ruby.

BRODY Brian Vurlow was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on October 12 to Tayla Brandon and Brett Vurlow of Cape Paterson.

RUBY May Forrest Kennedy was born at Bass Coast Regional Health on October 18 to Sarah Forrest and Paul Kennedy of Venus Bay. Ruby May is a new sister to Taj and Riley.

ZAC Nathan Sporle is a beautiful baby boy for Adam and Rebecca of Korumburra. Zac was born at Monash Medical Centre on September 24.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Final winners at the Coal Creek Literary Festival ORGANISERS of the recent Coal Creek Literary Festival writing competition were pleased to receive a large number of entries in the school categories.

Congratulations also to Inverloch poet Barbara Orlowska-Westwood, who won the poetry open section for the second year. Printed far right is her poem, as well as the winners in the school categories. This completes publication of the winning entries.

‘Together’ – a tribute to the final years of high school

by Lucy Piper Winner secondary school poetry prize.

Looking around the room These faces, I have known We have laughed, we have wept Together.

The calendar on the wall, like a big ticking clock Counting down, second by second Until we will abandon this place Together.

And we - are we to go?

We are each to our own But we will carry each other In our hearts, in our thoughts Always together.

This place where we dwell A home among the homes Brothers amongst sisters, Friendships amongst friendships.

It will always be, our special bond Our time together Together.

Fill runs away

by Jasmine Susic Winner Primary School short story One smooth sunny Saturday, Lilly was lying on her banana lounge.

Meanwhile, her tortoise Fill was on the move.

Lilly remembered it was Fill’s feeding time. As she neared the glass tank, Fill was heading out the cat flap.

Lilly screamed, “Fill’s gone.” She saw little footprints leading to her bedroom. Lilly knew where Fill was.

Opening the door, there was… Cuddles, her kitten. Lilly signed, “I’m going on a search party.” Lilly packed a bag with essentials and attached a little trailer (just in case), then she was off.

Lilly asked Tom the baker if he’s seen Fill. “Sorry love, no, but they’re looking for treasure Sam Sin buried 100 years ago.” Lilly doubted anyone would find it and continued riding.

Lilly reached an enormous hill and saw a strange shape at the top (it looked like a rock). “It’s Fill!” Lilly cried, “and he’s standing on the treasure.”

Searching

by Lucy Piper Winner short story secondary school prize He likes the unknown. The discovery. The unfamiliar.

He finds happiness in the unearthing of places less travelled, the exploration of dwellings that hold their own history and unique beauty.

He has travelled the globe for so long he no longer knows where he came from. But what is he searching for?

In his years he has seen supreme majesty and wonderment of the variety of places that humans inhabit. But not one has called out to him, “Here! This is where you belong!

Come settle amongst the beauty and magic of this place.”

He always believed that nature had the power to cry out to him in such a way, that he would find his peace. Yet recently he had begun to doubt, as one does when the answer you were looking for does not come swift, in a wave that sweeps you off your feet in its awe. But he never allowed himself to discontinue searching. For if this nomad came to a halt, he could go only where he had been before, to conclude again upon the displacement that he had felt on his first visit.

It was amongst these thoughts that he came to a place that took him by surprise. He stood bewildered, scanning the part of the earth where his feet had taken him. The rolling hills sparked a calm within his soul, and he smiled as he heard the voices whisper, “You have found your place here.” A sign inviting him read, ‘welcome to South Gippsland.’

Vigil

by Barbara Orlowska – Westwood.

Winner poetry open section The silent man on a couch is her husband.

He stopped talking gradually a stream drying in years of drought.

When prompted Yes no I’m fine still in his vocabulary.

The stream bed’s clay dry craquelure no rain will make it flow.

The man sits stares all day at the TV volume off or at the wall.

Open book on her lap she watches him remembering their past she listens to the silence.

Small works competition HEATHER Downing, president of the Stockyard Gallery, was at last Wednesday night’s South Gippsland Shire Council meeting to drum up support for an aquatic art competition.

The gallery committee is organising a competition of small works that depict the aquatic life of the coastal region.

“We’re looking for a creative response

by Gippsland artists to our marine and coastal environment,” Ms Downing said.

Ms Downing presented councillors with competition details and the small frame that will be the standard entry type and size for all entering artists.

They will need to purchase the stretched canvas, measuring 20x20cm (8x8inches), from the gallery or Morwell Art and Framing.

Entry fee is $12 per entry, which includes the cost of one stretched canvas.

Entries are limited to three per person.

Closing date and delivery of work is Sunday, January 10, 2010, 4pm at either

the Stockyard or Morwell address.

The exhibition starts on Thursday, January 28, and will run until Tuesday, February 23, 2010. The official opening and announcement of prize winners will be on Sunday, January 31, 2010, midday.

For further details, call Stockyard Gallery on 5682 1125.

Small works: Heather Downing, president of the Stockyard Gallery, presented councillors with a small stretched canvas that artists need to create their entries. Here Cr Mohya Davies receives her bare canvas.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 43

Putting surf into art POPULAR long weekend destinations Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay will be not only teeming with visitors, they will be buzzing with a range of events to please the people influx.

Much has changed in the past 12 months, since a new management committee at the Tarwin Lower Mechanics Institute Hall, on River Drive, began rejuvenating its activities just before last year’s

Tea for two: Mosaic artist Anita Booth will be exhibiting her work at the Venus Bay art show.

Melbourne Cup weekend.

The new committee aims to serve the communities in Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay as well as the surrounding areas with a range of activities. The hall is also for hire at reasonable rates.

Artist and committee member Pauline Farries said funds that were raised from market days and other functions earned the committee $10,000 in the last 12 months, which was put towards renovations of the hall.

“We did a lot of work on the hall. We fixed the electric wiring, gutters and toilets,” Pauline said.

Money was also put towards a computer.

In Venus Bay, the Surf Life Saving Club at No.1 beach will again host the Venus Bay Art Show.

In its second year, the show will feature a great variety of artists living locally and in the district. The works on show will include paintings, photography, sculptures and mosaic pieces.

The exhibition is organised by the Thursday Art Group, which has its home at the Tarwin Lower hall.

The president of the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club Allan Latto, will open the exhibition on Saturday, October 31, at 2pm.

All visitors are welcome. Entry is by gold coin

donation towards helping the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club which performs a great service to holiday makers during summer. Fifteen per cent of all art sales will go into the club coffers.

Works by the students of the Tarwin Lower Primary School will also be on display.

The Tarwin Lower market will rise again since the new committee has come into being. Held inside and next to the hall on Monday morning, November 2, there will be a great variety of stalls, from clothing and hardware to tools and jewellery.

Proceeds from stall holder fees and the barbecue will again be going towards restoration of the hall.

The hall committee has planned a number of other activities in coming months.

A Christmas lunch is planned for December 8 and bookings have already come in. Cost is $5 per person.

The hall committee is also holding a toy appeal with the benefits going to Kilmany House. People are invited to donate toys which will be given to children in the district. Drop-off points include the Venus Bay and Tarwin Lower general stores, the primary school, BPE Real Estate and the hall.

For inquiries, call Pauline Farries on 5663 7006 (art show) and Carol Dwyer (market) on 5663 7657.

Prom Coast: Pauline Farries is a local artist. Her painting Prom Coast (pictured) will be on display in Venus Bay. She is also part of the Thursday arts group and holds workshops.

Contrasting works of art LOCAL artist Lynn Keating will exhibit at the newly established Coal Creek Community Art Gallery at Coal Creek Heritage Village in Korumburra.

Called Juxtapose, her exhibition will include ceramics, prints and drawings and runs from October 23 to November 29.

To juxtapose means “to place side by side, especially for comparison or

Arts couple: Visitors have been impressed with the work done by art couple Jeannie and Bill McDonagh, shown at Gecko Studio Gallery until November 14.

Pieces grab attention THE opening of the exhibition by Jeannie and Bill McDonagh titled Pieces of Eight at Gecko Studio Gallery in Fish Creek attracted keen buyers.

The exhibition opened on October 18 and will run until November 14.

“We had good attendance and satisfactory sales,” Gecko co-owner Michael Lester said.

“People were blown away when viewing their work. Jeannie has done a series of quite large works featuring dyed and

stitched silk that is framed in peppermint gum harvested from their property in Merton.

“Up close all the stitching is easily visible and everything looks a little confusing but step back a little and the most beautiful images of bushland and waterways appear.

“Bill’s laminated forms are pieces of wood laminate twisted and shaped into curves and waves that fool the viewer into believing they are looking at ceramic work.”

For inquiries, call Gecko Studio on 5683 2481.

contrast”, which in Lynn’s case is quite apt. Her various creations are contrasting while sitting side by side in the new gallery.

She lived in Bena with her husband for three years after moving from the Mornington Peninsula. She works in Frankston as a Secondary School art and ceramics teacher.

Lynn recently became a volunteer at Coal Creek and a member of the Coal Creek Community Arts Group.

“The group’s vision is to see a fully working arts group operating out of Coal Creek, which will be run by registered volunteers,” Lynn said.

“Our group would like to create a learning environment in which the community can experience the joy and release that comes from art.

For gallery inquiries, call Coal Creek Heritage Village on 5655 1811.

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 45

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 47

VLE Leongatha store sale

Family focus: Wonthaggi dairy farmer Rod Tack with children Nathan and Felicity. Daughter Brigette was at kindergarten.

Thursday, October 22

Downsizing as price bites

Its part of a recent downsizing, which saw the size of their milking herd almost halve from about 760.

Rod spoke to Star reporter Chris Brown last Friday about the sale and the family business.

You had a sale on Monday; how did that go?

It went better than what we expected. I think the average price was just under $1100 a head and we didn’t think we would get anywhere near that. I read in The Weekly Times that the Warragul sale the week be-

fore was pretty ordinary, so we were rapt with the price.

Farmers from Fish Creek, Toora and Sale bought between 10 and a dozen cows and picked out the best.

The three inches of rain certainly helped our cause because the season is going to go a lot longer now.

What was the reason for the sell-off?

We were milking about 760 cows and it was too much for us. We seemed to be going backwards, so we dropped our numbers back by half. I was having a lot of trouble with lame cows when they had to walk so far and I had labour issues. I thought if we went back to a simpler, family operated system we could make it work. We got rid of a 500 acre lease block out the back and six labour units; now we’re down to one worker and my father-

in-law rears the cows.

How’s the spring been going for you here at Wonthaggi?

It’s the wettest we’ve been since we moved here seven years ago, so it’s just going to go on now until Christmas time. If we can get more good rain in December it will be a good year.

How’s the milk price drop been impacting you 10 months on?

It’s had a massive impact. We’re still behind the eight-ball and we will be for the next two or three years or however long it takes to recover. We were milking a lot of cows and you have to feed them and it really hurt us big time.

The price definitely needs to improve. It’s not sustainable where it is. Either as early as Christmas it will

need to improve or there will be a lot of farmers looking to get out.

Was the downsizing directly related to the price drop?

It was. If we had still been getting 50 cents a litre I wouldn’t have done it; because we’re getting 21 cents a litre and it costs about 30 cents a litre to produce it, with the number of cows we were milking, the price drop was a big hit.

Downsizing has probably halved our pain.

North, 7 x $516; A.J. Walker, 6 x $515; A. Francis, 1 x $500; M. Hayes, Leongatha South, 6 x $500.

Steers

B.F. Littlejohn, Korumburra, 14 x $905; A. Francis, 5 x $850, 5 x $830; B. Svenson, 12 x $825; P. Grant, 2 x $825; Prunetti Investment, 15 x $810; C. & W. Leach, Mirboo, 12 x $790, 10 x $765; R.J. Grylls, Welshpool, 1 x $775; A.J. & D.E. Beer, 1 x $770.

Springers G.W. & D.H. Mathers, 5 x $600.

VLE LEONGATHA KOONWARRA

Sale Draw October 28 1. SEJ 2. David Phelan & Co 3. Landmark 4. Alex Scott 5. Elders 6. Rodwells

Your passion, our commitment (It’s a better way forward)

The next time you’re thinking about how money can grow your business, call us. We won’t think twice about speaking with you, personally. mitch32169

WONTHAGGI dairy farmer Rod Tack sold about 170 Friesians at VLE Leongatha from the property he owns with wife, Linda, on October 19.

Total yarding: Bulls - 1 av. $1300, cows - 28 av. $822.86, calves - 3 at $415, cows and calves 256 av. $860.39, calves - 33, heifers - 409 av. $402.14, steers - 1320 av. $548.16, springers - 5 av. $600.

Bulls D. & K. Clark, Fish Creek, 1 x $1300.

Cows G.D. & R.L. Trease, Mirboo North, 7 x $900; Katelea Past. Bass, 9 x $880, 8 x $835; T. Bunn, 1 x $830; A. & R. Jung, Yarram, 1 x $510; K. Smale, 1 x $400, 1 x $400.

Calves R.J. Grylls, Welshpool, 3 x $415.

Cows and calves T. Bunn, 1 x $1400; R.J. & L.H. Harris, Korumburra, 1 x $1260, 5

x $1090; J.D. & K.A. Campbell, Toora, 3 x $1260, 5 x $1160; Bimbi - Livestock, 7 x $1230; M.W. & M.M. Hobain, Gelliondale, 3 x $1210; R.J. Grylls, Welshpool, 1 x $1160, 1 x $1140, 2 x $1040.

Heifers S.R. & J.A. Bland, Yarram, 1 x $585; Vanaquin & Brown Q, 1 x $550; G.T. & C. Cummaudo, Mirboo North, 7 x $540; T. Bunn, 1 x $530; G.C. & G.S. Thompson, Stony Creek, 4 x $525; R.J. Grylls, Welshpool, 1 x $520; P.M., J.A. & V.R. Johnston, Mirboo

Leongatha Nerine Courtney

(03) 5662 5910 0407 355 134

Allan Fletcher 0428 118 696 www.ruralfinance.com.au

For further information on our services contact your local office.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Prices firm to dearer EVEN though the value of the A$ is higher, demand was stronger for bullocks, cows and bulls at VLE Leongatha last Wednesday.

Prices averaged 1c to 3c/kg higher, and the change in quality in the cow sale will see carcass weight prices average higher as well. Trade heifers also sold to dearer trends, with the small number making up to 7c/kg more.

The penning of young cattle was only small, and vealers made from 162c to 181c/kg. Yearling heifers made between 139c and 160c/kg. A number of older heifers were sold in this section of the sale, and with a number being dairy heifers, prices varied from 110c to 149c/kg.

Better quality prime bullocks made between 162c and 171c, and crossbreds made from 142c to 164c/kg. A few pens of good quality Friesian bullocks made between 142c and 149c/kg.

Cows sold to stronger demand with restockers again purchasing a number of very plain cows. Better quality beef cows made from 127c to 138c, and most other cows made from 105c to 128c/kg. Some very poor and very light weight cows were sold between 50c and 98c/kg.

Wednesday, October 21 BULLOCKS 1 Horsfield Farms, Thorpdale 2 C. Taylor & D. Mueller, Mirboo North 8 E.J.B. Forrester, Cranbourne 5 C.A. & J.A. McMicking P/L, Tarwin Lr 9 P.C. Sibly Past. Archies Creek 2 I. Purbrick, South Yarra STEERS 1 W.V. McInerney, Wonthaggi 1 Horsfield Farms, Thorpdale 2 C. Taylor & D. Mueller, Mirboo North 5 J.H. & J.I. MacDonald, Leongatha South 1 R.L. & L.K. Laurie-Rhodes, Alberton 1 L.M. Peters, Mirboo North COWS 2 Dolphin & Dessent, Foster 2 N. & R. Kubale, Drumdlemara 1 I. Purbrick, South Yarra 1 M.W. & M.M. Hobain, Gelliondale 1 B.J. Buckley Part. Buffalo 1 N.G., D.A. & J.D. Buckland, Fish Creek HEIFERS 1 M. McCaughan, Pound Creek 1 A.W.S. Cook, Yinnar 1 B. Wilkin, Mirboo 10 S. Scollo, Leongatha South 2 Strathbrae Equity P/L, Inverloch 1 S. & A. Blundy, Tarwin Lower BULLS 1 J.F. & M.C. Wilson, Glen Alvie 1 D. & K. Clark, Nerrena 1 R. & P. Davis, Leongatha South 1 Murroka P/L, Foster 1 N.R. & L.J. Andrews, Mirboo North 1 L.C. & G.L. Anthony, Meeniyan

605 590 688 612 609 638

172.2 169.2 169.2 168.6 168.2 168.2

1041.81 998.28 1163.25 1031.83 1024.15 1072.28

335 500 530 533 430 365

172.6 172.2 169.2 168.0 166.6 158.6

578.21 861.00 896.76 895.76 716.38 578.89

670 495 645 690 450 595

137.6 136.6 135.0 135.0 135.0 135.0

921.92 676.17 870.75 931.50 607.50 803.25

355 280 360 283 445 410

180.6 180.0 170.6 162.0 160.0 156.6

641.13 504.00 614.16 457.65 712.00 642.06

950 1035 860 815 915 930

150.0 150.0 148.9 146.2 146.6 145.0

1425.00 1552.50 1277.96 1191.53 1335.90 1348.50

Krishlaye Goldwyn Madilyn: won the three-year-old category of the South Gippsland Round of the Semex On Farm Challenge.

Judged on farm THE South Gippsland round of the 2009 Semex On Farm Challenge has been run and won.

There were 156 entries from 18 breeders in the region.

Among the winners were Ash and Jane Harrison of Nerrena in the three-year-old class with cow Krishlaye Goldwyn Madilyn.

Ash said she’ll get better with age.

“Probably the best part of her is the udder and she’s pretty constant right through,” he said.

The cow’s sire, Goldwyn, is dead and his semen is sought after around the world.

When Ash purchased a dose he paid $100, now it is retailing for $350.

“I wouldn’t be milking cows if I didn’t have registered cows, because there would be no interest in it for me,” he said.

All first and second place getters have qualified for the Victorian final now, which is judged by a fresh judge in November and the champions will be announced in December.

Travis Deans from Oakey in Queensland was the judge.

Results: Two-year-old - 1st: Bushlea Gold CrinkleET, Keith and Pat and Wayne and Lisa Kuhne (Bushlea Farms, Koonwarra) - 2nd: Mitch Blitz Jemma, Brent and Kim Mitchell (Mitch Holsteins, Loch).

Three-year-old - 1st: Krishlaye Goldwyn Madilyn-ET, Ash and Jane Harrison (Krishlaye Holsteins, Nerrena) - 2nd: Bushlea Don LorettoET, Keith and Pat and Wayne and Lisa Kuhne (Bushlea Farms, Koonwarra).

Four-year-old - 1st: Mt Lyall Stormatic Carol 107-ET, L. and P. Lancey (Mt Lyall Holsteins, Nyora) - 2nd: Burnvale Allen Connie 2-ET, D. and C. and R. Berryman and R. and L. and M. Blackburn (Leongatha).

Five-year-old - 1st: Inverwood Talent Loretta 747-ET, Jamie and Judy Nicholls (Inverwood Holsteins, Inverloch) - 2nd: Calderlea Ladino Faith, Les, Louise and Tim Calder (Calderlea Holsteins, Meeniyan).

Matuire - 1st: Calderlea Transit Teresa, Les, Louise and Tim Calder (Calderlea Holsteins, Meeniyan) - 2nd: Calderlea Roy Topsy, Les, Louise and Tim Calder (Calderlea HolsteinsMeeniyan).

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 49

Nicoll’s award FISH Creek dairy farmer Graeme Nicoll has received a scholarship in Australia’s leading research program for primary producers, the Nuffield Australia Farming Scholarship Program.

Mr Nicoll was one of only 18 Australians to receive a 2010 Nuffield Scholarship.

He was presented with his scholarship at the Innovation in Australian Farming Awards dinner at the Hawkesbury Race Club last Friday, part of the four-day Nuffield Australia Spring Tour being held in the NSW Hawkesbury region.

Nuffield Farming Scholarships, each worth $27,000, give young Australian primary producers the opportunity to travel internationally and explore agricultural issues and op-

Nuffield scholar: Fish Creek dairy farmer Graeme Nicoll will investigate how dairy farmers can best cope with change. portunities globally.

There are about 1400 Nuffield scholars worldwide.

Mr Nicoll will use his scholarship, sponsored

by the Geoffrey Gardiner Dairy Foundation, to study resilience in dairy production systems.

He and wife Gillian own and operate a dairy farm on 240ha at Fish Creek, milking between 250 and 300 crossbred cows and also run a small beef herd.

“Variations in the social, economic or climatic conditions in which modern dairies operate can have a dramatic impact on these businesses,” Mr Nicoll said.

“I think a greater understanding of the processes driving change can help us develop farm systems that can cope with variation and remain strong and productive businesses.”

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Classifieds PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

Sell it in the "Star"

situations vacant

situations vacant

CABINET MAKER

Leongatha Centre Manager Full Time The St Vincent de Paul Society is a leading Catholic worldwide charitable organisation providing a broad range of human services & welfare support across Victoria.

Do you have a flair for merchandising & want to challenge your skills? This role includes managing customer service, staff & volunteers, budget, inventory, merchandising, financial management and reporting.

This role requires experience in a retail environment & a passion to help others in the community. This is a role that will challenge & engage the right candidate. We offer a fun & supportive work environment with access to a tax effective salary.

To be part of this motivated team address your application to the HR Advisor, St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria Inc. Locked Bag 4800 Box Hill 3128 or email jobs@svdp-vic.org.au by COB 6 Nov 09. PD available at www.vinnies.org.au/vic

LEONGATHA GOLF CLUB Vacancy for PART TIME GROUNDS MAINTENANCE WORKER over summer Leongatha Golf Club requires a part time grounds maintenance worker from November 2009 to March 2010.

Casual, award wages will be paid.

Hours are flexible but will entail early morning work, with some weekend work possible. Car licence preferred.

Must be competent in driving machinery: tractors, mowers for greens and fairways.

Duties will include watering of greens and tees, operation of fairway irrigation system, mowing of fairways and greens, setting up of course for play under the direction of the Course Curator.

Apply in writing stating experience including school work experience if applicable to: The Manager, Leongatha Golf Club PO Box 578, Leongatha 3953 Telephone 5664 3314 for further information

CHEF

Experience required Driver’s licence necessary References preferred Phone 0407 863 383

Urgently required for permanent work in busy, modern Australian bistro Contact Aaron 0412 364 761

SERVICE MANAGER • Attractive salary package • Leisure and lifestyle industry A position has become available for a Service Manager to head up the Service Team at Inverloch Marine.

As leader of our Service Department you will be responsible for the day to day running of this division including: • Preparing / scheduling daily repair orders • Customer liaison • Providing technical support and coaching to service staff • Service department efficiency, productivity and budgets You will have: • exceptional customer service skills • strong computer literacy • excellent communication skills (written and oral) • a strong track record as a self motivated, friendly and proactive team player • attention to detail combined with a professional work ethic The successful applicant will have an extensive mechanical knowledge with good diagnostic skills.

Industry software training provided onsite.

Please email your application and CV to: info@inverlochmarine.com.au

Iekj^ =_ffibWdZ I^_h[ 9ekdY_b oek½bb Yec[ \eh j^[ X[Wkjo WdZ ijWo \eh j^[ b_\[ijob[

FbWdd_d] WdZ 8k_bZ_d] 7Zc_d_ijhWj_ed J[Wc B[WZ[h Temporary full time position - 9 months $54k pro rata package We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated and experienced Administration Officer to lead our Planning & Building Administration Team.

In addition to ensuring a high level of service to all customers, you will be responsible for overseeing the administration functions of the department. A key function of this role is to provide professional administrative support to the Planning and Building unit, including coordinators and the manager.

Experience in a Planning and/or Building administration role is preferred in conjunction with demonstrated customer service and administration skills. You must be competent in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook and have excellent written and verbal communication skills. You will have a successfully completed year 12 and/or a certificate in business administration or similar.

A strong commitment to working in a team environment is essential.

We also welcome direct discussion with Chris Wightman, Manager Planning and Building, regarding this role.

Applications addressing the selection criteria are to be submitted by 5pm Friday 6th November 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 South Gippsland Shire Council Private Bag 4, Leongatha Vic 3953 e-mail - council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Phone (03) 56629200

mmm$iekj^]_ffibWdZ$l_Y$]el$Wk

EXECUTIVE OFFICER • Wonthaggi Location • Leading provider of in-home care • Generous salary + salary packaging

FOR LOCAL BUSINESS

The Bass Coast Business & Tourism Partnership is seeking to employ a part time Executive Officer on a contract basis.

The Partnership facilitates cooperation between local business and tourism organisations and the Bass Coast Shire Council, through the Visitor Information Centre network. The Partnership offers members a range of promotional opportunities, the benefits of cooperative marketing and providing a united industry voice.

Role objectives include: • Membership services • Project management • Administrative support • Delivering the business and marketing plan The successful applicant will need to demonstrate: • Project management skills • Excellent oral and written communication skills • Excellent computer skills • Good knowledge of the tourism industry and its hierarchical structure • Ability to manage time effectively whilst working with limited direct supervision The contract offer is $30.00 per hour negotiable according to skills and experience and is based on an average of 20 hours per week.

This is a contract position, for a copy of the project brief contact: Teresa Mahood Email: t.mahood@basscoast.vic.gov.au Phone 5951 3383 Applications by email only will be received up to Friday, November 6, 2009

Take the next step and assist with the growth of business in your community

people

Business Banking Officer Enjoy delivering tailored financial solutions?

Located in Leongatha, VIC. (12 month fixed term position).

Bendigo Bank’s success has been built on partnering with customers to understand their needs and deliver tailored financial solutions. As a Business Banking Officer you will play a front line role in servicing a portfolio of business customers in an accurate and timely manner.

You will support and be mentored by a Business Banking Manager, to take the next step with your credit and lending skills, to service the needs of Small to Medium Enterprises. You’ll also have the chance to further develop your relationship building, communication and time management skills in servicing the needs of the local business community.

In return you’ll become a key part of a diverse team in a rewarding work environment to continue with the development of your career.

So if you think you’ve got what it takes to be part of the Bendigo team, we want to hear from you. Visit careers.bendigobank.com.au to find out more or to submit your application, quoting reference number VIC583246. Or write to Rob Francis, Regional Manager, PO Box 698, Warragul 3820.

Applications close on Friday, 30 October 2009.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited, ABN 11 068 049 178. AFSL 237879.

(97280-v7)

(20/10/2009)

careers.bendigobank.com.au

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 51

situations vacant

situations vacant

CLERICAL OFFICER We require an experienced Clerical Officer to undertake tasks including processing legal documents, general administrative duties, accounts/banking, filing, mail, reception and answering phones.

Must have excellent touch typing and computer skills, be well presented, friendly and flexible.

Part time position, ideally with a view to becoming full time.

Resumés to: Mr C. White OAKLEYS WHITE 65 Main Street, Foster 3960 Enquiries phone 5682 2211

situations vacant

public notices

KORUMBURRA SECONDARY COLLEGE LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

Ongoing part time - 0.6 from 27/01/2010 Website www.education. vic.gov.au/careers/job.htm Applications close October 29, 2009 NEED CASH in hand, earn $100-$200 pw. 8-10 hours delivering and collecting catalogues. No outlay. Call 1300-663161.

EQUESTRIAN secondhand / household goods Car Boot Sale, $10 per stall, Friday, October 30, 6-8pm.

Sausage sizzle etc. Tilson Crt, Leongatha.

Enq: 5664-9273.

situations vacant

HAIRDRESSER 2nd year - 3rd year Apprentice wanted Apply in person to Clipit Hairdressing, 36 Bair Street Leongatha

5662 2163

Motor Ag of Leongatha requires a

FULL TIME DIESEL MECHANIC Experience with ag or heavy machinery to work at our Leongatha Workshop on all aspects of farm machinery.

Top $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ for the right person.

Immediate start Applications in writing should be addressed to: The Manager 120 Horn Street PO Box 315 LEONGATHA VIC 3953 Email: dealerprincipal@dcsi.net.au

public notices QUIT SMOKING & WEIGHT LOSS with John Simmons, Clinical Hypnotherapist.

Group and Private sessions.

Wonthaggi, Thursday November 12; Leongatha, Friday, November 13.

Bookings: 5333-1565 or 1800-110660. www. simmonshypnotherapy. com.au THE ORGANIC HAIR & BEAUTY SALON: 150 Bald Hills Road, Tarwin Lower, Deanne Dakers. Ph. 5663-5439, website: www. theorganicbeautysalon.com

KONGWAK MARKET Sunday from 10am Inside & out!

GRAND RIDGE BREWERY RESTAURANT Mirboo North, Gippsland We require a

MOTIVATED, INSPIRATIONAL CHEF Ready to extend strong existing skills and knowledge, whilst working with founder and owner Eric Walters in beer and food matching and media opportunities.

Resumé including cover letter and references should be sent to beer@grand-ridge.com.au or sent via fax to 9708 0888. Phone 9706 2222.

An unparalleled opportunity for the right applicant.

• Grand Ridge Brewery 100% pure beer • Restaurant • Accommodation • Functions • Live Entertainment • Full hotel facilities Reservations Ph: 5668 2222

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 Kongwak market is a smoke free event

Mirboo North COUNTRY MARKET Baromi Park 8.30am - 1pm

BRANCH OFFICE CLERK - WONTHAGGI Full Time Position We have a vacancy for a service minded, clerical whiz or someone who is customer focused, extremely well organised and computer literate, and would love to work as the Branch Office Clerk.

The primary objective of this position is to provide timely administrative support to the store whilst ensuring excellent service to our customers.

You will be responsible for: • Collation of store payroll information • Maintenance and processing of store merchandise paperwork and orders • Invoicing, receipting and banking • Regular production and distribution of reports according to our procedures • Office administration - mail, batching, filing, phones, etc.

Skills/Knowledge/Experience: • Customer service skills • Clerical/administrative skills • Computer literacy • Ability to work on own • Passion for accuracy • Ability to converse with a variety of different customers, staff, managers, product managers • Planning and organising skills Previous clerical experience would be an advantage.

If you believe you have what it takes and would like to work with us, please forward your written application and resumé to Robert Field at Dahlsens Building Centre, 109 White Road, Wonthaggi 3995, by the close of business on Friday, November 6, 2009.

Service of Remembrance Celebrating Life and Love A time to remember loved ones who have died and give thanks for their life.

Come together in thanksgiving, share the journey with others.

Sunday, November 1 at 5pm at St Peter’s Anglican Church Leongatha

NEWHAVEN COLLEGE In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength

A co-educational, independent school, Prep to Year 12, beautifully situated on Phillip Island

NEW JUNIOR SCHOOL

INFORMATION EVENING Thursday 29 October 2009 Newhaven College Year 9 Environmental Centre 1770 Phillip Island Rd, Sunset Strip In 2011 the Newhaven College Junior School will move to our campus at Sunset Strip.

You are warmly invited to hear about plans for this significant stage in our development.

6.00 – 6.45pm

Stalls may be set up from 7.30am Plants, toys, bric-a-brac, books, crafts, flowers

Inspection of the location of the new Junior School. Viewing of models and plans of the buildings and surrounds.

BOAT LICENCE COURSE

EXPERIENCED CARPENTER

public notices

Last Saturday in each month

Contact Maxine 5668 2465

Hotondo Homes Inverloch is seeking to appoint an experienced carpenter with leading hand experience in the construction and maintenance of new homes.

To be successful at this role you will have had previous experience in the domestic housing construction industry with proven leading hand experience. You will need to be flexible, self motivated, well organised and able to work with minimal supervision, and have strong interpersonal skills. You will also have formal qualifications such as a completed trade course in Building and Construction, your own tools, the appropriate OH & S card, and a current driver’s licence.

All applications will be handled confidentially.

Interested applicants should request a copy of the position description via email at: enquiries@hotondoinverloch.com.au Applications close Wednesday, November 4 at 5pm

public notices

6.45 – 7.30pm

(incl. PWC end)

Information about the construction and the operation of the campus. Speakers will include the architect, members of the Board of Directors and Executive Management.

WONTHAGGI Tuesday, November 10

Light refreshments will be available.

All Welcome.

6pm - 10pm

To register your interest in attending, please contact Reception at Newhaven College Ph: 5956 7505 Fax: 5956 7131 email: info@newhavencol.vic.edu.au www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au

Bookings essential

Phone Bob: 0417 524 005 Approved Marine Safety Vic. course Australian Boating College.

Provider No. 3399

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

0422 998 025 1800 611 368

BUSHFIRE RECOVERY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER 2 x Temporary Full Time Positions - Band 6 Positions currently funded to 30 June 2010 This is your chance to work in a challenging, enthusiastic and rewarding environment in an organisation committed to making a difference in the community.

Latrobe City Council has a fantastic opportunity for individuals with extensive community development and project management experience to join our Bush re Recovery team. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills will allow the successful applicants to effectively engage and work with the community, volunteers, community based organisations and funding bodies to bring about sustainable positive change across our re affected communities.

The successful applicants will thrive in a dynamic community environment and enjoy being exible to meet the needs of the position. They will be effective facilitators, able to establish and maintain partnerships with a strong focus on relationship management and be strong contributors within a dynamic team.

For more information or to obtain a copy of an application cover sheet and position description, please refer to our website: www.latrobe.vic.gov.au or contact Heather Farley on 5128 5648.

Applications must have a signed application cover sheet and address the key selection criteria.

Applications can be forwarded to Tarlee Whittaker, Human Resources Of cer, Latrobe City Council, PO Box 264, Morwell VIC 3840 and will be accepted until 5.00 pm Monday, 9 November 2009.

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

public notices

public notices

agistment

TARWIN LOWER MARKET The next Tarwin Lower market will be held at Tarwin Lower Hall on:

AGISTMENT available for 80-90 young dairy heifers.

Ph: 0409-783310.

public notices

Monday, November 2, 2009 Cup Weekend Many stalls including fresh produce, plants, tools, books, craft, clothing, and bric-a-brac Enquiries/Bookings to Hall Secretary, Carol Dwyer Ph: 5663 7657

Rotary Club of Inverloch

BOAT LICENCE

TALK TO THE DOCTORS AT AMI. CALL OR SMS “TRY”

CHIROPRACTOR

Garry Harrison 19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson

Saturday, October 31 9am - 3pm Sunday, November 1 9am - 2pm

Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday

INVITE ENTRIES Sports Stadium and Carpark For information phone Ken 5663 5256

By appointment Ph: 5674 8290

public notices

QUOTES

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

HEN HOUSES, fox proof, good quality, 6-8 chooks; plus dog kennels. Ph: 56642443.

5672 3127

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

Ph: 0405-170994.

1800 20 40 90 public notices

1989 TOYOTA LANDCRUISER UTE

CHIROPRACTOR NORMAN G. VRADENBURG

With camper and canopy, complete with roadworthy.

Reg. OPU-235 $10,000 Phone 5662 3075

“NON-FORCE PRACTITIONER” HOURS - Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday by appointment Phone and fax 5674 3666 South Gippsland Chiropratic Services & Adjunctive Therapies P/L

public notices

PUREBRED Kelpie pups, 2 females, one black, one red, 3 months old. From good working parents. $100 each. Ph: 0407-300329.

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

28 Reilly Street, INVERLOCH

lost EMERALD cut diamond, around Catholic Church area, Thursday, October 22. Large reward offered.

0407-577204.

public notices

AIR CONDITIONER, split / mobile, portable, heater, dehumidifier, air conditioner, fan, remote, 9 y.o. $2,000 new, sell $600.

Ph: 0418-686439.

CARDS, Bibles, CDs, giftware available New Beginnings Christian Books 5662-0999 - opposite IGA carpark Leongatha.

COOL ROOM for dismantle and removal. Size 2400 x 3600 x 2300. 2 doors.

Urgent sale, must be gone by 7/11/09. Call 0419594648. $3,800.

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

This group will provide a direct link between port management and the Western Port community during the next two years of the proposed port expansion program.

The purpose of the CRG is two-fold. The group receives regular updates on port activities to share with the broader community, and also acts as a community voice in bringing public and business concerns and issues to port management’s attention.

VERY neat 2 bdrm flat close to street, $240 pw.

3 bdrm home close to medical centre, $220 pw.

4 bdrm home close to street, $240 pw. Call Stockdale & Leggo Leongatha on 5662-5800.

Please confirm attendance at this information session

by Friday 30 October.

Call PoHC on 5979 5500, or email to enquiries@portofhastings.vic.gov.au Attendance is not compulsory for applicants.

mitch29762

livestock

WHAT DO YOU THINK? SOUTH GIPPSLAND WATER CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY - 2009 South Gippsland Water has received a lot of valuable comments, ideas and feedback from our customers over the years, through our customer satisfaction survey.

The survey is in the form of phone interviews carried out by an independent market research company, I-view.

The survey will be completely confidential and anonymous, only aggregated information will be returned to South Gippsland Water.

The information collected is exclusively for South Gippsland Water and will only be used to help us improve our services to you. If you can take the time to answer the survey it will benefit all our customers, including you.

So please have your say - we are listening!

The survey will begin on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 and conclude on Friday, October 30, 2009.

tenders

tenders

SINGLE BED, timber, with matching bedside table, as new, $300. Ph: 5662-5346 a/h.

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each.

Free delivery for pack lots.

Phone Joe 0417-530662.

40 TEAT Skellerup calf feeder, current model, comes with tub, has been adapted to carry 200lts, spray tank also included, $3,200 ONO. 0408538464.

TIMBER - kiln dried blackwood, clear pine, silver wattle. Most sizes for furniture and craft. Also builder’s graded structural pine. Phone 5681-2261.

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

CHAINSAWS AND STATIONARY ENGINES ETC. Repairs and services

Phone JOHN GOULD 5664 0012

livestock

tenders

DAIRY LIVE EXPORT ORDERS

Provision of Cleaning Services Gippsland Region Tender No: TCF/09/1160 Tenders are sought for the cleaning of offices of the Department of Human Services, Gippsland Region. The tender can include all offices as one contract or can be tendered for individually.

TRARALGON OFFICE – 64 Church Street 2 x tenancies each 2 floors – total 1734 sq mts

Unjoined Holstein Heifers 200kg plus, 9-16 months at time of delivery $900.00 - $1100.00 + GST Delivered Portland NORMAL CHINA PROTOCAL APPLIES Delivery Early January 2010 Contact Details: Andrew Mackie 0419 595 932 Luke Russell 0408 313 815 Peter Male 0428 784 390

BAIRNSDALE OFFICE – 7 Service Street Single floor tenancy – total 901 sq mts SALE OFFICE – 150 York Street Single floor tenancy – total 955 sq mts

FOR PRIVATE SALE

LEONGATHA - 9 Bruce Street Single floor tenancy – total 400 sq mts MORWELL – 7 – 11 Hazelwood Road Two-storey tenancy – 2150 sq mts

Top Quality Stud Friesian & Jersey Bulls, Serviceable Age Price: $1,800.00 - $2,000.00 + GST

Further details can be obtained from: Glenda Clarke Manager Front End Services Gippsland Phone: 03 51772583

WANTED Lines or herds of freshly calved Holstein & Jersey cows

Full tender documentation can be accessed via www.tenders.vic.gov.au

For these lots please contact: Andrew Mackie 0419 595 932

Tenders close: 2 pm, Thursday 26 November 2009 Tenders to be lodged at Tender Box, 64 Church Street, Traralgon , or posted to Department of Human Services, PO Box 1661, Traralgon, to reach the office before close of tender.

No late tenders or facsimiles will be accepted.

ROOF RACK, Rhino HD, to fit new Toyota 200 series, as new, $200. Ph: 56640037 or 0408-314057.

free

for rent VENUS BAY - house, short stroll to beach and shops, sleeps 7. Contact: 0408320001.

Further information regarding the next stage of the port planning and an outline of CRG membership requirements will be provided at an Information Session at 5pm on Wednesday 4 November at the Lady Nelson Room, Western Port Marina, Hastings

14 - 18 Pioneer Street FOSTER, VIC. 3960 PH: 1300 851 636

HAY, small square bales, $8 each. Fully shedded, suitable for horses, never been wet. Quality guaranteed. Mardan 56641320.

Sales

The Port of Hastings Corporation (PoHC) is seeking expressions of interest from individuals and / or groups to participate in a CRG.

Expressions of Interest close at 5:00pm Thursday 12 November 2009

Repairs FREE

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Community Reference Group (CRG)

Individuals or groups seeking nomination may download a CRG Information Pack from www.portofhastings.vic.gov.au or call PoHC on 5979 5500.

VACUUM CLEANER

HAY MOWER, Krone, 5 disc, GC, $4,900. Ph: 56635256.

DUST BAGS

• Financial problems?

• Problems with premature Ejaculation?

• Problems gaining or maintaining an Erection?

Wednesday, October 28

for sale

for sale

SEX? GET AMI’S STIMULUS PACKAGE TO STIMULATE YOUR SEX LIFE

6.30pm

for sale

WANT LONGER LASTING

3 HOUR COURSE MSV approved $85 INVERLOCH

Contact Joan 0427 275 632 Marine Training Services

CRAFT MARKETS

personal

mitch30296

0121009

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

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 53

garage sales

garage sales

garage sales

garage sales

“Kibby’s Hill” Poll Hereford Bull Sale

GARAGE SALE

GARAGE SALE

At Stockyards on Buffalo North Road

151 Whitelaw Street MEENIYAN

(between Boys Road and Buffalo) Featuring

8 - 2 YR OLD QUALITY BULLS “Burando” breeding Graham Birrell 0427 387 174 Owen Kindellan LKD 0438 595 199 Proud sponsor of the Buffalo Community Garage Sale

garage sales

garage sales

Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1 9am - 2pm Household goods and sundry items

garage sales

11 Manna Court Koonwarra (off Kookaburra Drive)

Saturday, October 31 9am - 1pm • Baby Goods - boys clothes, expresser & steriliser, cot, large playpen, bath & stand, toys • Motor scooter (no rego, needs work) • Books, furniture, household goods • Old farm machinery (garden features) • Plants, pots

GARAGE SALE AT MEENIYAN FIRE STATION Saturday, October 31 9-3

Household goods Linen, rocking horse INVERLOCH, 27 Gordon Avenue, Saturday, October 31, 8am - 1pm. Garage sale, bunks, washing machine, etc.

MEENIYAN, 57-59 Whitelaw Street, Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1, 8.30 to 3.30pm. Lots of excellent quality items.

wanted THREE BEDROOM farm house in any area. Urgently, for young couple with a child. References available.

Please call Krystal on 56644423 or 0437-154148.

wanted to buy FURNITURE: Parker, Noblett, Tessa, Chiswell, Moran, or any quality brand name used furniture. Phone Wendy on 0409-234482.

OLD MOTORBIKES road, trail, motocross, farm, scooters, 4WDs, minis, wrecks or just parts. Cash paid. 5664-8344.

used machinery * BRAND NEW* JF-8B2400 Hay Mower, 6 disc, full tarp, ready to use $11,000 inc. GST Vermeer 604K Round Baler, twine only, good condition $5,500 inc. GST Vermeer 6041 Round Baler, netwrap and twine, good condition, $14,000 incl. GST Ferrabolli FF66H, twine only, suit own hay maker, $4,400 inc. GST Phone 5662 5590

used vehicles

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

work wanted

meetings

HANDY GARDEN MAN

Friends of the Great Southern Rail Trail

Hardworking and reliable at competitive rates.

Odd jobs and specialising in garden/ land maintenance.

No job too big or small Phone Linden 0418 111 847 5686 2281

meetings

AGM Monday, November 2 2pm At RSL Leongatha All welcome

meetings

Leongatha Lyric Theatre Inc. Annual General Meeting Monday, November 16 starting at 7.30pm at SERAFINO’S (downstairs) All members welcome

All machinery Bins provided

Bass Coast Metal Recyclers 5672 2946 0417 556 593 MERCEDES BENZ M/L 4x4 s/w, diesel turbo, 2005, leather, sunroof, all M/B extras, as new condition, $36,000, RWC, books, reg. GN660, LMCT 4104.

Ph: 5664-0037 or 0408314057.

meetings

SOUTH GIPPSLAND FIELD & GAME

AGM

Tuesday, November 3 7.30pm APEX CLUBROOM Watson Road, Leongatha

99TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Members of the public are invited to attend the 99th Annual General Meeting of this Health Service

Venue: Kirrak Room, Wonthaggi Workmens Club Graham Street, Wonthaggi Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 8pm Guest speaker: Dr Marcus Kennedy, Medical Director, Adult Retrieval Victoria Topic: Role and future directions of Adult Retrieval Services Business to be transacted: 1. To confirm the minutes of the 98th Annual General Meeting held on November 12, 2008 2. To receive the 2009 Annual Report and Financial Statements 3. To transact any other business, of which at least five (5) days notice has been given 4. Address by guest speaker.

Lea Pope Chief Executive Officer

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Classifieds PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350

tenders

tenders

Mail Delivery Contract Australia Post is seeking tenders from companies, or persons willing to form companies, to deliver mail under contract arrangements in the Delivery Area listed below. Australia Post has a commitment to providing a consistent and personal service to its customers. Therefore, as far as practicable, the successful tenderer should be able to supply the same personnel to deliver the articles each day in the Delivery Area.

The successful tenderer will have sufficient time to make arrangements to comply with the conditions of the contract, including the procurement of a suitable vehicle. Training will initially be provided to the successful tenderer, who is then required to train its own personnel.

All genuine tenders and enquiries are welcome. However, Australia Post is not obliged to accept the lowest or indeed any tender, and reserves the right to accept or reject any or all tenders if it considers that it is in the interests of Australia Post to do so.

INVITATIONS TO INVITATIONS TOTENDER TENDERFOR FORMAIL MAILDELIVERY DELIVERYSERVICES SERVICES Tenders are invited for the delivery of MAIL ARTICLES from November 28, 2009 for the following area/s: MS: V00868 (802415) - CAPE PATERSON STREET MAIL DELIVERY - (Bid Number 3855) Contact: Leongatha Delivery Centre, 21-23 HUGHES STREET, Leongatha VIC. 3953.Tele: 03 5662 5694.

Or contact the Mail Contract Centre, Locked Bag 13000, South Melbourne, 3205. Tele: 03 9299 8980.

Tenderers can also obtain tender details and forms and submit their tender via the Internet by registering their details online at www. auspost.com.au/etendering. This Mail Service can be viewed on the internet by referencing the Bid Number noted above.

Tenders must be submitted in the envelope provided, to the MAIL CONTRACT CENTRE, Locked Bag 13000, SOUTH MELBOURNE, 3205 or online via the Australia Post e-tendering website by the closing time and date.

TENDERS WILL CLOSE AT 2PM ON NOVEMBER 13, 2009

www.auspost.com.au

marriage celebrant

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

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

MERLENE STRATTON Leongatha 5662 2574

thanks THANK you to all my family and friends who came to celebrate my birthday.

Thank you for your wishes and gifts. A special thanks to my daughter Nanette Forrester and her family for organising the day. Thank you to all her friends who assisted her. Thank you to the MDU Football Club for providing a wonderful venue and service. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves as much as I did.

Kathie McDonald.

bereavement thanks TWITE - Heather.

Geoff and family would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to the wonderful family and friends who attended Heather’s funeral. Thank you for your support, love and kindness, and many happy memories shared on the day.

engagements TUCK - HULLS Cheryl and Barry of Berrys Creek and Greg and Nicole of Warragul, together with Ann-Maree and Geoff of Leongatha, are thrilled to announce the engagement of Merryn and Benni on October 22.

WIGNEY - MERCIER Barry and Jill are delighted to announce the engagement of Brad and Jodie (Billie). We are proud to welcome our English rose to the family and we all wish them much love and happiness for the future.

in memoriam FOSTER - Jack.

30/10/93.

Missing you more every year.

From Noeleen and family.

deaths COWIE - Ellen Joy (Joy).

Passed away peacefully at Korumburra Hospital on October 22, 2009, aged 90 years.

Late of Korumburra.

Beloved wife of Bob (dec.).

Dearly loved mother of Robert, Colin and Noel.

Fond mother-in-law of Joy and Chris. Loved nana of Lynette and Neville, Tracey and Ross, Trevor and Lauren; Jason and Julie and Samantha. Great nana of Nicholas and Brooke; Taylor and Robert; Brandon and Maddison.

Happy memories of the good times, happy memories never forgotten.

Good drop: Robyn Schmidt, Lorraine Hughes, Kaz Hughes, Owen Schmidt and Lisa Williams enjoy a glass of the Schmidt’s Lyrebird Hill bubbly.

First national’s first birthday

PROM Country First National Real Estate held their first birthday party on Friday night, with plenty of friends and clients on hand to help them celebrate at their Meeniyan office.

Special thanks to Dr Mark Bensley and nursing staff at Korumburra Hospital for their care and support of our dearly loved mother ‘Curley’.

RODWELL - Nathan Paul (Nath).

Result of accident on October 25, 2009. Aged 21 years. Late of Leongatha.

Dearly loved son and mate of Andrew, Lesley and Mark. Much loved brother and mate of Ben and Hayley.

Much loved and much missed...

Please see Herald Sun for Funeral details.

RODWELL - Nathan Paul.

Treasured memories of my beloved grandson and our dearly loved nephew.

Jean, Linda, Joy and Graeme.

The Star was there to capture some of the fun.

Good times: Stuart Harry, Allen Bartlett, Tony Curtis and Jonathon Emes celebrate at the birthday party.

A lifetime of living packed into 21 years.

Get together: old friends were reunited when Helen Buckley, Rita de Bondt, Anna de Bondt, Maureen Buckley and Julie Fowkes caught up with each other.

funerals COWIE - The Funeral Service for the late Mrs Ellen Joy (Joy) Cowie will be held at the Uniting Church, Korumburra, on Wednesday, October 28 at 11am.

The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Korumburra Cemetery.

Paul and Margaret Beck HANDLEY FUNERAL SERVICES Leongatha Korumburra 5662-2717 Member AFDA

message of hope I LOVE you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer. Psalm 18: 1, 2(a).

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8194 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, For the present. 8, R-over. 9, Fore-saw. 10, Airily. 11, De-me-an. 12, A-part. 14, S-cone. 18, T-H-rash.

20, Her-miT. 23, No-I-some. 24, Range. 25, Silent protest.

Down - 1, For-bad. 2, River. 3, Hur-D-ler. 4, Puff. 5, (ch)Eerie(r). 6, Eastern (anag.). 7, To-win-g. 13, Partial.

15, C-heeri-o . 16, St-one’s. 17, Street (anag.). 19, S-horn.

21, Min-c-e. 22, Keep (rev.).

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8194 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Dermatologist. 8, Mumps. 9, Recital. 10, Gutter. 11, Fringe. 12, Adder. 14, Agree. 18, Resume. 20, Treble. 23, Trainee. 24, Lease. 25, Harbour-master.

Down - 1, Damage. 2, Remit. 3, Austere. 4, Ogre. 5, Occur. 6, Intense. 7, Tiller. 13, Despair. 15, Gorilla. 16, Crutch.

17, Veneer. 19, Mango. 21, Boast. 22, Beer.

Left Happy birthday to us: Glenys Foster, Allen Bartlett, Kaz Hughes and Lisa Williams all enjoyed the celebration.

POLICE BRIEFS Drug bust driver FOSTER police busted a drug courier on Tuesday, October 22 at 2.40pm after they pulled the man over in Barry Beach Road, Agnes after complaints of poor driving in the Korumburra/Leongatha area.

“The 26-year-old Welshpool man was charged with careless driving in a dangerous manner, driving while having his licence suspended and trafficking a drug of dependence,” Foster Police’s Sgt Neil Coates said.

“He was also charged

with using a drug of dependence. A large amount of drugs was found in his possession in the vehicle.

He was bringing the stuff up from Melbourne, so it was a good pinch.”

Hoon blitz WONTHAGGI Traffic Management Unit has busted a number of drivers speeding past the Welshpool Primary School, after the public made complaints to police.

“We’ve had a number of complaints about speeding in school zones, particularly the Welshpool

Primary School on the South Gippsland Highway,” Foster Police’s Neil Coates said.

The blitz occurred on Tuesday, October 20. The strip outside the school is zoned to 40kmh on school days.

“There were speeds of 72, 74 and 78kms recorded. These incidents resulted in a $310 fine and one month loss of licence for two offenders and one for $421 and six month loss of licence,” Sgt Coates said.

“A lot of people don’t think about it, because the school’s down there on the South Gippsland Highway.”

Sgt Coates said local po-

lice were trying to have VicRoads signpost the area in a clearer way to warn motorists.

“People aren’t thinking about it, but they need to be aware that this speed zone has been placed there to protect children going to and from school,” he said.

Nyora blaze A NYORA house was razed by fire early on Monday.

CFA and SES members were at the blaze. Wonthaggi CIU members will investigate the circumstances surrounding the blaze.

The house was vacant at the time.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 55

Last day high jinx SOUTH Gippsland’s Year 12s celebrated their last day of school on Friday.

They dressed to impress at each of the high schools in Leongatha.

There seemed to be minimal ‘mucking up’, though some good clean fun was had.

Now the Class of 2009 has to knuckle down for exams, starting with English on Friday.

Disney characters: Randy Booth, Meg Simpson, Melanie Makin and Maddi Wheatley at SCCC.

Last day: Grace Collins and Shanna Rantoule at LSC. Ninjas: Jake Mackie and Leon Green jump with Fergus O’Connor, Aaron Tangusso and Jack Malzinskas at MMCRC.

Spice girls: Cam Roughead, Sam Sperling and Todd Mackie with Brendan Brewster and James Ogden at LSC.

School’s over: Marissa Preston, Neesa Kirkus, Arielle Rawson, Kirsten Gathercole, Stacey Crabtree and Erin Sanders in the Geelong clothes at MMCRC.

SCCC: Christian Van Eck, Jason Tomada and Steve Daw were dressed to celebrate.

Tarzan and Jane: Chris Wylie and Kayla Bowler at MMCRC.

Three generations: Helen Cripps of Kardella South, daughter Cassie Houston of Leongatha and granddaughter Leila Houston, 21/2, admire one of the water features at the Mt Eccles Manor.

Garden walk: from left, Terese Bourke, Margie McGraw, Kerry Hogan and Marg Fennell enjoyed the Mt Eccles Manor open garden day on Sunday.

A slice of paradise SUNDAY saw the opening of Mt Eccles Manor and gardens by generous owners Christine and David Corbridge as a fundraiser for Woorayl Lodge in Leongatha.

Framed by green hills and valleys, the spectacular house is surrounded by beautiful gardens featuring flowering shrubs, perennials, natives, rose gardens, wisteria arbours, tranquil water gardens with delicate iris a special attraction.

Inside, the house is just as lovely – a real “home beautiful”.

Each room is colour co-ordinated with patchwork quilts, lamps, dainty cushions, art work, mostly created by Christine with some fine examples including paper tole, china painting, dolls and porcelain figurines.

Christine’s creativity spills outside where her delightful mosaics are worked into walkways and walls. The house and garden is very much a labour of love and David assists by putting Christine’s creative ideas into practice.

“People say our gardens are interesting, but we have tried to make the area more relaxed and concentrate on special features,” Christine said.

It’s amazing what David and Christine have achieved, from the 10 and a half acre paddock to the magnificent home and garden they have today in just over eight years.

Visitors to the manor were not only treated to a delicious slice of South Gippsland paradise but a scrumptious afternoon tea, provided by the Woorayl Lodge auxiliary, complete with fluffy cream sponges, cakes and just about every slice you could imagine. Some $1100 was raised for the Lodge.

Delicious: members of the Woorayl Lodge auxiliary served up a fabulous afternoon tea during the open house and garden at Mt Eccles on Sunday.

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Strong clubs show pennant strength WITH only three rounds having been played in the season, one could almost say that the clubs that will play off in the grand final are an odds-on certainty, with the mighty Phillip Island and Leongatha again having strong wins last weekend.

The only clubs that may present a threat are Inverloch White and Korumburra.

However in saying this, there are 11 rounds to be played and anything could happen. Inverloch Blue (at home) were no match for Phillip Island, going down by 18 shots in a one-sided affair.

Foster (playing at home) gave Inverloch White a bit of a push, winning one rink, but going down by 12 shots overall.

Korumburra at home

easily accounted for Wonthaggi winning by 27 shots and claiming all three rinks, whilst Mirboo North (at home) were no match for Leongatha losing all three rinks and suffering a 23 shot defeat.

In Division 2 San Remo (home) were a little lucky to get out with a win against Tarwin Lower, who took two of the three rinks, but went down by six shots.

A similar result saw Leongatha recover from last week’s drubbing by Tarwin Lower and win by 16 shots, but won only one rink in doing so.

Lang Lang (home) easily accounted for Meeniyan to win three rinks and claim the game by 25 shots, whilst Wonthaggi won two of the three rinks to win by 19 shots.

In doing so, we almost saw the greatest come back since Nellie Melba with Gary Clarkson’s rink

TIDES Here is an easy guide to tides in your area.

To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below.

Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Port Phillip Heads

OCT / NOV Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

28 WED

29 THUR

30 FRI

31 SAT

1 SUN

2 MON

3 TUE

0619 1152 1813

1.31 0.63 1.17

0003 0705 1238 1913

0.52 1.26 0.65 1.13

0050 0758 1333 2033

0.61 1.22 0.64 1.13

0150 0854 1443 2154

0.70 1.20 0.60 1.19

0307 0950 1558 2300

0.76 1.21 0.52 1.29

0436 1045 1656 2355

0.77 1.23 0.42 1.42

0540 1136 1741

0.74 1.27 0.32

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

down 4-24 at the break, to almost steal the game, going down by only one shot losing 27-28.

The results of all matches were: Div 1: Inverloch Blue 2-64 lt Phillip Island 1682; Foster 2-58 lt Inverloch White 14-70: Korumburra 16-87 d Wonthaggi 0-51: Mirboo North 0-57 lt Leongatha 16-80.

Div 2: San Remo 12-72 d Tarwin Lower 4-67: Leongatha 12-74 d Inverloch 4-58: Lang Lang 16-79 d Meeniyan 0-54: Wonthaggi 14-84 d Toora 2-65.

Div 3: Loch 0-64 lt Phillip Island Blue 16-78: Leongatha 12-61 lt Fish Creek 14-78: Phillip Island White 2-72 lt Wonthaggi 14-76: Corinella 3-67 lt Foster 13-71.

Div 4: Port Welshpool 2-62 lt Korumburra Gold 14-72: Korumburra Maroon 0-59 lt Inverloch 16-77: Phillip Island 16-92

d Mirboo North 0-39. Div 5: Meeniyan 16-90 d Loch 0-59: Tarwin Lower 2-59 lt San Remo 14-66: Fish Creek 14-87 d Wonthaggi 2-59.

Div 6: Inverloch 0-45 lt Lang Lang 14-50: Phillip Island 14-66 d Foster 0-32: Meeniyan 12-54 d Toora 2-44: Wonthaggi 14-58 d San Remo 0-38.

My ‘Kiss of Death’ tips for this coming weekend in Division 1 are: Inverloch White (home) easily over Inverloch Blue; Wonthaggi (home) should record its first win over Foster, but will not have it all its own way.

Leongatha (home) will easily account for Korumburra whilst Philip Island (home) will easily account for Mirboo North.

Ladders Division 1 Phillip Island ..................107 Leongatha .........................82 Inverloch white .................18 Korumburra ...................-27 Mirboo North ..................-11 Foster.................................-46

48 46 35 18 16 16

’Burra bowlers: Allan Jordan and Bill Dilg were playing in Division One on Saturday.

Wonthaggi .........................-52 11 Inverloch Blue....................-71 2

Division 2 San Remo ..........................41 Lang Lange .........................8 Leongatha .......................104 Tarwin Lower .................107 Inverloch ..........................-20 Meeniyan.............................-1 Wonthaggi ...........................-2 Toora .................................-29

40 32 26 20 20 18 18 18

Division 3 Phillip Island Blue ............70 44 Foster.................................33 41 Fish Creek .........................48 31

Phillip Island White ..........-2 20 Corinella ............................-4 19 Loch ....................................-8 18 Wonthaggi ........................-42 17 Leongatha............................-95 2 54 49 32 22 18 17

Division 5 San Remo ..........................13 46 Meeniyan............................44 42

Leongatha

Inverloch ladies LAST Tuesday the weather was much improved on the previous week.

Division 1 had a good day, with all teams having a win against Lang Lang.

Division 2 played Wonthaggi at home, but unfortunately we went down to the opposing team.

Division 3 played at Leongatha and they also went down.

This is week four and we are all hoping to do a lot better.

Wednesday, October 21 was the first of the ladies monthly triples. We had 24 bowlers on the green to do battle. Three games of ten ends, a beautiful day with sunshine brightened up our lives and our bowling.

The sponsor for the day was Robbie Glover from Inverloch Nursery.

The winning team on the day was the team of Diana Patterson, Nellie Martin and Yvonne Kee. Yvonne is a new bowler and from what I saw last Wednesday she is going to be very good.

Yvonne was presented with a glass from the club as this is her first win.

38 32 18 16

Division 6

Division 4 Korumburra Gold............82 Inverloch ...........................41 Phillip Island.....................26 Port Welshpool ................-20 Mirboo North ..................-65 Korumburra Maroon .........-64

THE good weather this last week has seen a very active week in the bowls arena.

Tuesday, October 20 saw our ladies pennant teams in action. Division 1 played away at San Remo but lost by 22 shots overall, while Division 3 played Inverloch at home and won by six shots overall.

Tuesday, October 27 sees Division 1 ladies at home to Foster, while Division 3 ladies travel to Wonthaggi. There will be no ladies pennant Melbourne Cup Day. On Wednesday, October 21 the social triples winners were Bev Thompson, Margaret Fisher and Glenice Emmerson, with the runners-up being Ellie McIntyre, Fay Judd and Elaine White.

The men’s was a very tight finish, with two teams on two wins plus 10 shots and on a countback again even, however on total ends won, Graeme Washfold, Bill Fisher and David Bee were winners. Runners-up were Fred Sauvarin, Frank Filomeno and John White.

Sponsors for the day were Financial Blueprint, and the club thanks them for their support.

Thursday evening saw the twilight bowls in action again, with 18 new players testing their skills, along with club members, and another successful evening was had by all. The winners were the well led team of Russell Trotman, Margaret Marks and Jack Rayson.

Twilight bowls will again be held at 6pm on Thursday, October 29, with again an invitation to anyone to come and join the action and test your skills, as well as a fun night out.

Saturday, October 24 saw the Division 1 pennant teams travel to Mirboo North. They came away with an overall win by 23 shots.

Division 2 were at home to Inverloch and they also came out winners overall by 16 shots.

Division 3 were also at home to Fish Creek, with mixed fortunes. Two teams lost by nine shots in each game, while the other team skippered by Joy Todd won by one shot. Fish Creek won overall by 17 shots on the day.

This week sees Division 1 at home to Korumburra, with Division 2 away to Meeniyan, and Division 3 away to Wonthaggi.

Reminders: Melbourne Cup Day social bowls, lunch 12 noon. Cost is $13 for lunch and bowls or $8 lunch only.

On Friday, November 27 the Leongatha Bowls Club hosts Lyric Theatre’s Deju-vu-Revue, 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Supper and show $22 per head. Bookings are essential with payment on or before November 20. See Don or Ellie McIntyre.

The club’s various championship events for members who entered their names are reminded that the draws have been completed and lists displayed in the clubhouse, and the games must be completed by the deadline dates.

Tarwin Lower ...................69 Fish Creek ........................-36 Wonthaggi .......................-66 Loch ..................................-38

Inverloch ...........................56 42 Phillip Island.....................70 40 Wonthaggi .........................32 30 Foster................................-43 16 Toora ...................................3 14 Lang Lang .........................-22 12 Meeniyan...........................-43 12 San Remo ............................-53 2

Runners-up were Joy Brown, Rhonda Davies and Carol Waters.

Friday, October 23 was the final of the State Singles, which was held at Korumburra, and played between Robyn Dennis from Inverloch and Lucy Vignochi from Foster. It was a very good match with Robyn going down to Lucy by only two points and that was on the last end. We congratulate Robyn for reaching the finals.

Saturday, October 24 there were 12 ladies and one brave man playing social bowls.

The winners for the day were Ivy Sheppard, Lorraine Dowson and Ian Bulloch.

Sunday, October 25 was Try Bowls day and there were about 25 trying their hand at bowling.

The day was a success and we hope that we may get a couple of new members from the day.

Wednesday October 28 is the first round of our Club championship. Don’t forget Cup Day brunch then a game of bowls followed by watching the Cup. There are lists up for you to put your names down, for brunch and bowls or one or the other. Good bowling to all for the coming week.

SGDLBA state singles Last Friday, October 23 was the final of the ladies Association State Singles between Lucy Vignocchi from Foster and Robyn Dennis from Inverloch.

This was an excellent game with both players excelling themselves with some very close competitive ends.

It was an exciting game and at 23 all, it could have gone either way.

But in the last end Lucy managed to pick up two shots to win the game 25-23.

We congratulate Lucy Vignocchi for winning this, her first state singles.

Congratulations also to Robyn Dennis for reaching the finals again this year, after winning last year.

Association state singles: winner Lucy Vignocchi from Foster, Joy Hargreaves, (president of the South Gippsland District Ladies Bowlers Association) and runner-up Robyn Dennis from Inverloch.

Loch bowls

ON Tuesday the ladies pennant team travelled to Port Welshpool where the home team won on the day.

On Saturday the men’s teams suffered the same fate, with Division 3 at home to Phillip Island Blue and Division 5 at Meeniyan.

Thursday there were insufficient players for social bowls.

Sunday was the men’s invitation fours, played in sunshine but under chilly conditions. Winner of the best last game was Keith Button’s Korumburra team, runner-up was M. Bullem and team from Drouin, with the local team Ang Miller, Brenton Hackett, Col Cochrane and John Tuckfield winning the day.

A reminder that the social committee will be running an event on Melbourne Cup Day starting at 10am. Sausage sizzle lunch, ladies a plate of salad please, and wear your best cup hats.

Twilight bowls will start on the next evening (4th) and will follow the usual format.

As a club we wish a return to better health for Peter Lennon. Also as a club we send sympathy to the family of former member, Joy Cowie.

The older serving members at Loch remember Joy as a very talented, but modest bowler, who had many successes between 1983-1997. Joy was also a great lead bowler in many pennant teams during that period.

Although she retired from bowls on reaching her 80th year, she is still well remembered with fondness.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 57

Korumburra Bowling Club THE ladies pennant on Tuesday saw great wins for the ‘Burra team at home.

In Division 2, the ladies were host to Tarwin Lower with a percentage win to Korumburra. Our best card was Margaret Goad’s team of Margaret Brown, Margaret Clancy and Shirley Martin against Gwen Bright’s team.

Division 3 were hosts to Foster where the ladies had another excellent result, with the best card going to Esma O’Flaherty’s ladies, Phyl Ferguson, Marj Williams, Joanna Lomagno against Lorraine Wheeler’s team.

Next week, Division 2 will be home to Phillip Island, whilst Division 3 will travel to Corinella.

Wednesday was a mixed day, with much laughter around the greens, with members wearing a touch of pink to honour the Jane McGrath Foundation. Thanks to those who gave their support.

After two games, there were two 2 game winners, with 16 ends up - Jenny McVeigh, Hugh Opray and Joy Lewis.

Joanna Schmidt took the money with Shirley Martin’s crew having four less ends.

SGDLBA Pennant - Round 3 Division 1 Foster 75 (16 shots) d Wonthaggi 59 (R. Richardson 36 d K. Simpson 13, L. Vignocchi 23 lt I. Donohue 26, M. Climas 16 lt L. Milkins 20).

San Remo 73 (22 shots) d Leongatha 51 (S. Carvosso 26 d E. McIntyre 22, C. Thorn 19 d R. Renden 17, K. Hale 28 d J. Todd 12).

Phillip Island 83 (29 shots) d Meeniyan 54 (R. James 28 d M. Pearson 19, P. Francis 29 d L. Hanks 19, P. Davis 26 d A. Van Wamel 16).

Inverloch 91 (45 shots) d Lang Lang 46 (M. Jenkins 32 d J. Prowd 14, S. Cook 31 d R. Geyer 15, C. Hughes 28 d L. Hodson 17).

Division 2 Port Welshpool 81 (17 shots) d Loch 64 (M. McDonald 27 d G. Garry 19, L.

The raffle winners were Margaret Brown, Mary Wrench and Bev Button.

The men were back on the greens on Thursday, where there was a good roll up of visitors and locals.

After three games, the winners were David Goodridge and Rob Sund with three wins and 16 shots up, with Ken Cecil and Ross Lomagno having the drawn card.

Thursday night was another successful opening of our twilight matches with a roll up of 16, with many new faces. These nights are open to all. The only requirements are flat soled shoes. Bowls are available at the club.

At the end of the night, there were two pairs that had one win and a draw. The outright winners with two wins were Marie Wittingslow and Roy Fox. Ring the club house by 5.30pm for a 6pm start with a sausage sizzle after the game.

Saturday’s bankers had spring sunshine.

After two games of 25 ends, the winners were Doug Berryman, Maurie Rielly and Neil Joyce with two wins and 15 shots up.

Men’s pennant on Saturday had mixed results for the ‘Burra men. Division 1 were

McLaine 34 d V. Kennedy 13, A. Collins 20 lt J. Miller 32).

Wonthaggi 75 (18 shots) d Inverloch 57 (E. Thompson 27 d M. Flett 12, M. McBain 28 d M. Paynting 19, D. Yarley 20 lt D. McIntosh 26).

Korumburra 108 (68 shots) d Tarwin 40 (D. Williams 17 drew H. Twite 17, M. Goad 50 d G. Bright 13, J. McLaren 41 d D. Barnes 10).

Phillip Island 82 (24 shots) d Fish Creek 58 (R. Viney 38 d V. Synan 12, E. De Vries 28 d N. Van Dyk 16, W. Braun 16 lt P. Hazeltine 30).

home to Wonthaggi with the ‘Burra home by 27 shots, with Rob Snooks’ team of Ross Besley, Alan Jordan and Bill Dilg 12 shot win against Rod Beech’s team.

Our best card in Division 4 was Korumburra Gold (Les Eastman’s team of George Hams, Ian Pepperell and Ken Myors) having a 10 shot win against R. Proudley’s team from Port Welshpool.

Our other Division 4 side, the Maroons, weren’t so lucky against Inverloch, playing on our greens, when they were defeated by 18 shots. Our best card was David Goodridge’s team of Grahame Brown, Peter Hearn and Don Mackay against J. Millar’s team.

The men’s pennant next week has Division 1 playing Leongatha on their greens.

Division 4 will see ‘Burra Gold at home to Phillip Island, whilst ‘Burra Maroons play Mirboo North.

Members are reminded that there will be mixed social bowls on Cup Day November 5. Mufti with hats. A catered meal.

Our next counter tea will be November 13.

Toora 56 (15 shots) d Meeniyan 41 (B. Curram 27 d G. Densley 24, J. Bland 29 d K. Brown 7).

Phillip Island - bye (1 pt).

Ladders Division 1 Foster.................................+51 Inverloch ............................-34 Phillip Island......................-16 Wonthaggi .........................+29 San Remo ...............................3 Lang Lang ...........................-22 Leongatha............................-33 Meeniyan.............................-74 Division 2 Port Welshpool .................+84 Phillip Island.....................+55 Korumburra ......................-56 Fish Creek ............................-5 Wonthaggi ...........................-13 Tarwin Lower ......................-63 Loch ....................................-54 Inverloch .............................-60 Division 3 Corinella............................+60 Toora .................................+29 Phillip Island.....................+11 Korumburra .....................+26 Wonthaggi .............................-2 Meeniyan.............................-15 Inverloch .............................-15 Leongatha............................-30 Foster...................................-64

Division 3 Corinella 70 (29 shots) d Wonthaggi 41 (M. Dillon 35 d V. Griffiths 23, H. Anderson 35 d G. Mitford 18).

Leongatha 49 (6 shots) d Inverloch 43 (M. Rayson 29 d M. Treadwell 15, P. Fleming 20 lt J. Arnold 28).

Korumburra 68 (37 shots) d Foster 31 (N. Gilbert 25 d G. Tyers 15, E. O’Flaherty 43 d L. Wheeler 16).

5 4 4 3 1 3 1 1 6 5 4 3 3 2 1 0 6 4 4 3 3 2 2 2 1

Fish Creek Bowling Club OUR ladies lost to Phillip Island last week and travel to Loch this week.

Both men’s teams had wins on Saturday, with Division 3 travelling to Leongatha and having a 17 shot win, while Division 5 played host to Wonthaggi and had a 27 shot win.

This week Division 3 play host to Loch, while Division 5 travel to Loch.

Teams aren’t available at this stage but changes will be let known to players.

Our singles championship draw is now up and it is important that players get that first game played if possible

before Sunday.

The ladies’ original invitation day was washed out and now it will be held on Thursday, November 5.

The meeting to sort out and vote for the unification will be held at 3pm on November 17.

Croquet UNLIKE cricket, croquet plays in all conditions but when the lawns are covered in ankle deep water, we admitted defeat.

Meeniyan Bowling Club PENNANT on Saturday, October 17 saw twos away to Toora where they found the grass green not to their liking, going down 59 to 67, with one rink successful.

Fives were away to Wonthaggi where they had a 76 to 69 win, with two rinks scoring the points. The sixes, at home to Inverloch, found the opposition too strong, going down 37 to 70.

Monday, October 19 was our invitation day, with sponsors being Rodwells and Stockdale & Leggo. Winners were Korumburra’s Jeff Coulston, Peter Hearn and John McVeigh, with Doug Berryman (Mirboo North). Runners-up were Alan Spooner, Ray Lecher and Ian Griffiths (Toora), with local Peter Hill.

The ladies did their usual superb job with the catering.

Tuesday ladies pennant saw both teams at home where ones went down to Phillip Island, 54 to 83, and threes went down to Toora, 41 to 56. This week both teams were away to Inverloch.

Wednesday’s social bowls winners were Graeme Tobias and Ron Gloster. Graeme also won the lucky draw. We welcomed Kay Cook who was trying bowls.

Thursday, October 22 was ladies invitation day, with teams from our association plus Mirboo North and Boolarra competing. The day’s sponsor was Handley Funerals (Paul and Margaret Beck).

Winners were Foster’s Dulcie Mortlock, May Climas, Gwen Facey and Viv Beattie. The runners-up from Wonthaggi were Bev Stephenson, Keitha Bird, Joan Clarkson and Sophie Brusamarello. Rosa James (Phillip Island) won the lucky draw.

Saturday, October 24 pennant was a mixed bag again.

Twos played at Lang Lang and went down again on the grass green by 25 shots, with no rink getting the points. Fives at home to Loch had a big win, 90 to 59, with all rinks successful. Sixes at home to Toora had one rink winning and getting the points, 54 to

44. Next week twos are on home territory to Leongatha, fives are away to San Remo and sixes away to Lang Lang.

Members are reminded to get their names down for catering purposes on Cup Day. Bowls begins at 10.30am.

Ladies Wednesday, October 21 saw 21 ladies play single stableford.

The Section 1 winner was Sheila Constantine (16h/c) with a fantastic 40 points and a reduced h/c. Veronica Park (36) once again took out Section 2 with 37 points.

The best nine went to Fay Smallman with 21 points, down the line balls to Dot Christie 36, Irene Holm 33, Mary Trease 32, Grace Benson 31, Faye Le Page 30 and Sue Hoskin 30.

The 45s winner was Lyn Jennison with 21points.

Fay Smallman took out the NTP on the second and Lyn Jennison won the second shot on the eighth for Section 2.

Tarwin Bowling Club THE ladies travelled to Korumburra last week and in warm and windy conditions had what could only be called a resounding loss to the home side, bad luck ladies.

Better luck this week when we take on Port Welshpool at Port Welshpool.

Barefoot Bowls; after round two, there are two undefeated teams, being Woodchucks led by Chooky and Noble led by Rob. There will now be a few weeks off for the laying of our new synthetic green.

In men’s pennant both teams came back to earth, after the previous week’s big wins, with Division 2 going down to San Remo by six points at San Remo, Division 5 lost to San Remo by six points at home.

This month’s dinner went well, although numbers were down, all who attended enjoyed the three course dinner prepared by Bev, Pauline, and Val, and thanks to our intrepid waiter Fred.

A reminder to get your names in for the Cup Day Chicken and Champagne Lunch starting at 12 Noon.

This will be followed by our annual hat parade, and various sweeps. The whisper is the Dodgy Brothers will be returning.

Thanks go to members who have donated to our Christmas raffle hampers, tickets are now on sale.

Thanks to Marian for making up the lovely new table decorations, all we need is new table cloths to show them off.

Inverloch Bowling Club

Six members entered Korumburra’s tournament this week.

Results 8-10 Sandra Birch (Leongatha; 10 - 12 Loraine Holland (Leongatha); 14 - 18 David Mann (Phillip Island).

Division 4: Ron Rees (Inverloch) with Ted Keily and John McVeigh (Korumburra) playing pennant on Saturday.

Players: Betty Strong and Jenny Milligan.

The spring weather is lovely to be outside in, so we do encourage people to

visit us for some fun and exercise.

Korumburra Badminton THE finals are only five weeks away now.

This week’s results were significant, as they saw Matrix become a serious contender for finals action, with a 175 to 159 win over second placed Shenanigans.

Don Creed, who usually plays for Transformers, filled in for Matrix for the night and took all before him, comfortably winning all

of his games and doing Matrix a big favour in the process.

Gladiator’s 179 to 150 hard fought win over Rambo keeps them in the hunt. Now Gladiator and Matrix are equal on 49 game points each, with only three percentage points separating them. Only one of them can snatch third place and a finals berth.

Rambo, on 36 game points, looks likely to miss out at this stage.

IN last Saturday’s round of pennant matches we had three wins and two losses but it was pleasing to see good performances on several losing rinks.

Division 1 White travelled to Foster, with two winning rinks they came away winning the match by 12 shots.

Ron Burge back for his first game for the season led his team to a nine shot win.

Mick Coram performed well to win by six shots. Ted Botts’ rink failed to come back from a slow start and went down by three shots.

Division 1 Blue were home to Phillip Island and despite losing on all three rinks they put in excellent performances on two rinks.

Harry Rybalka’s rink established a big lead against the strong John Newcombe crew but after the tea break the Is-

landers began playing shorter ends and our boys failed to cope with the change of tactics. Their good lead was taken away and at the end of play they were trailing by one shot.

Division 2 were away to Leongatha. Although they had wins on two rinks their winning margins were not big enough to cover the unexpected 23 shot loss of John Arnold’s rink who had a day when nothing went right.

In the Division 4, game against Korumburra Maroon, our boys won on all rinks by 19 shots.

Division 6 - Inverloch 50 d Lang Lang 45. B. Pritchard ld B Growse (2nd), I. Wood (3rd), B. Bain (sk) d B. Vanina 23-20 J. Hutchinson (ld), G. Dunlop (2nd), M. Griff(3rd), M. Scott (sk) d K. Wilson 27-25.

Good weather and our fast running greens attracted 40 players to our social bowls last Thursday. After two games of 12 ends of pairs, there were four game winners. Way out in front to take first place was Trevor Scott (sk) and Les Hubbard (ld) with 35 shots up. Next best with 28 shots up were Kieran Gardiner (sk) and Maurie Cargill (ld).

Our Try Bowls Day on Sunday was a great success with over 30 men and women trying their hand at bowls.

Our business bowls 2009/2010 series gets underway on Wednesday November 4.

It is pleasing to report we have 28 teams entered, which is a capacity field.

Alan Johnstone had a successful hip joint replacement last week and is progressing quite well.

Buffalo Indoor THERE was a great turnout on Wednesday October 21.

Lee Armstrong was amongst the 19 players and one visitor who came to watch.

All those players gave us six teams.

Sixth (LLL) seven ends, Lee Armstrong, Ian Benson and Mary Tumino. Fifth (WLL) 11 ends, Peter Tiziani, Carolyn Benson, Graeme Tobias and Steve Teylor.

Fourth (LWL) 13 ends, Bill Wolswinkle, Glenys Pilkington and Gemma Poletti.

Third (DLW) 12 ends, Karl Kappes, Joyce Occhipinti and Tamara Teylor.

Second (DWW) 14 ends, Rod McConchie, Peter Heldens, and Joe Occhipinti. Unstoppable in first (WWW) 15 ends, Toni Heldens, Charlie Tumino and Illene Tiziani.

Best first game - Peter T. 11-4, best second game - Bill 13-1, best third game - Toni 16-10.

See you again next week. Everyone is welcome at 7.30pm.

Thanks to all who came to our presentation dinner, which was a very enjoyable night.

Don’t forget our garden walk on October 31 from 1pm until 3.30pm.

Two gardens, those of Merle and Graham Unthank and Peter Heldens can be inspected by anyone wishing to look, for a $10 entry fee (donation).

There will be plants for sale. All proceeds will be in aid of the Peter MacCallum Hospital. Enquiries: Peter and Toni 5663 6224.

Dumbalk Indoor THE night of October 19 saw 13 players compete in three games of eight ends.

The winners were Frank Peile (skipper), Paul Holmes, Robert Burden and Morrie Parry with two wins, one loss and plus one shot.

The runners-up were Robert Matthies (skipper), Kay Cook and Mary Cook with two wins, one loss and minus six shots.

PAGE 58 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Leongatha Little Athletics results Wonthaggi Little Athletics

More than 150 personal best times were recorded and one centre record was broken.

Ruby Martin set a new mark in the Under 9 girls’ 50m sprint, hitting the line in 8.26 seconds and shaving

0.16 seconds off Christine Byrne’s record set in the 2007/08 season.

The velodrome oval was in great condition, but competitors struggled with long grass on the discus and javelin areas in the surrounding parkland.

Leongatha Little Athletics is holding a club logo competition, with children and parents encouraged to submit a design.

The design should reflect the club colours (white, blue and green) and include the club number (74).

First prize is a $100 gift voucher from Leongatha

Sportspower. Entries close October 31.

Training is held each Monday at 4.15pm at the velodrome oval and is a great way for athletes to practice their events prior to competition day.

Please note that the Friday night event scheduled for November 13 has been cancelled and replaced with a meeting on Saturday, November 7.

All parents rostered for duty on November 13 will now be required at the earlier meet.

Parent helpers are a vital part of the smooth running of all competition meets.

Meeniyan pacers: Lauren Redpath, Hannah Thorson and Gemma Martin in the Under 12 girls’ 1500m.

Those who are unable to do their rostered duty must please arrange a swap with another parent.

There will not be a competition on Saturday, November 14, with the Gippsland Region Relay Championships held on the following day at Newborough.

There is also a meeting to discuss important amendments to the club’s constitution on Monday, November 16, at the Leongatha RSL, from 7.30pm. All families are welcome and encouraged to attend.

South Gippsland Bridge Club Results Meeniyan – Monday evening: 1st Brian and Sally Hoskins. 2nd Noel and Margaret Smith. 3rd Faye Rowlands. June Metcalf. 4th Susan Ruffin.

Clive Hope.

Tarwin Lower – Tuesday afternoon teams. 1st Sullivan. Sutton. Kuiper.

Johnston. 2nd Hope. Dujela. Rowlands. West. 3rd MacPhees. Saleebas. 4th Embleton. Green. Smith.

Cameron.

Inverloch – Friday afternoon. Swiss teams: 1st.

Drury team. 2nd. Douglas team. 3rd. Farr team.

THERE were grave concerns earlier in the week as to whether the Billson Street oval was going to be in a fit state for athletics on Saturday as it had been undergoing major excavation works.

A rough patch up job by the construction workers on Friday and some last minute repairs by a few volunteers on Saturday morning enabled 99 athletes to compete. We welcomed 13 new comers on Saturday and hope you were pleased with your performances and more importantly that you enjoyed yourselves.

Congratulations to a couple of our athletes who made it through to the Victorian Secondary Schools State Athletic Championships at Olympic Park last Tuesday. Leki Asa Leausa placed 7th in the 14 Year Boys Shot Put and 6th in the Discus, while Sadie Plumb was a close 4th in 12-13 Year Girls 800 Metres and an even closer 3rd in the 1500 metres.

Only two weeks into the season proper and the closeness of the competition is unprecedented. Many events are being decided by a centimetre or one hundredth of a second. It has been quite exciting for the spectators to see such close competition.

While it is not compulsory that a child does all five events programmed for their age group each Saturday, it is recommended that they attempt to do each event if they wish to earn points towards their age group and overall club championships.

Just a reminder that all unregistered athletes will need to register by this Saturday. Warm up starts at 9.15 am next Saturday. It is important that children do the warm up as it not only gets them ready to perform at their best but it also reduces the chance of injury. Set up will commence at 8am. Volunteers are always welcome.

Wonthaggi table tennis WITH only two matches to go, A Reserve team Thin Culture (Beau Thompson, Michael Veal, Jayden Hallett) have gone to an unbeatable lead.

They are now a clear twelve points in front of second placed White Port (Nancy Pattinson, Helen Wall, Kaye Craddock).

Short Stuff (Wayne Pitts, Jarrod Donohue, Sam Watson) had a good win over Cape Paterson (Gary and Lyn Morley, Rosemary Perry).

takethequiz.com.au

Junior competition Round the table: Mea Pitts, Holly McRae. Top Shot: Mea Pitts.

Numbers: Holly McRae, Ella McRae. Hit the Bat: Jessie Condron, Luke Legione.

Best serve: Jessie Condron.

Most improved: Corey McRae.

Ladders A Reserve Thin Culture .......... 24 White Port.............. 12 Short Stuff ............. 12 Cape Paterson ......... 8

35 32 27 22

(129) (112) (90) (85)

B Grade The Daly Boyz ........ 20 Diamonds ................ 12 DaBritts .................. 12 JG ............................ 12 Best of the Best ......... 8 Smallies .................... 4

17 17 14 12 13 13

(26) (38) (31) (25) (28) (28)

Leading players A Reserve Beau Thompson .............. 12 Gary Morley ................... 10 Nancy Pattinson ............... 9 Kaye Craddock................. 8 B Grade Brittney Taylor ................ 10 Tanya Milnes ..................... 9 Niki Neducic ..................... 9 Ellen McIntosh .................. 8

(39) (32) (29) (28) (22) (19) (18) (18)

One match to complete.

OGR R 005 0059 9

ANOTHER strong contingent of 165 competitors, as well as several ‘bring a friend’ athletes, hit the track and field in ideal conditions at the Leongatha Little Athletics Club’s fourth meeting last Saturday, October 24.

Riding the wave of success: Venus Bay little nippers are prepared for the dangers of the surf.

Be a nipper VENUS Bay Life Saving Club will hold a registration day for their nipper program on Sunday.

Is gambling getting in the way of your social life?

Blow all your money and you won’t be going anywhere. If you can’t go out because you’ve spent all your money gambling, you could be gambling too much. To find out if you are, go to takethequiz.com.au

The club is hoping to get more local children, aged between six-years-old and 13-years-old, to participate this summer.

Talk to club members about the program at the registration session on November 1 from 10am at the club at the Number 1 beach.

Club junior coordinator David Cumming said nippers do beach and water activities as well as learning about the surf, safety, sun protection and healthy eating.

“I think a lot of people are wary of Venus Bay because it’s seen as a dangerous beach, but we have some very good life savers down there and our water safety during the nipper program is second to none,” he said.

The summer nipper program begins on December 27 at 10am and runs through until Australia Day weekend.

It will be on every day from December 27, except the 29th, until the new year, and then on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday.

Contact David Cumming on 0438 831 376 or cumminggang@bigpond.com for more details.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 59

Wilson to coach MDU LEIGH Wilson from Korumburra/Bena Football Club will take on the role of MeeniyanDumbalk United Football Club senior coach next year.

It’s the first senior appointment for the premiership winning 2009 Kor/Bena U18s coach.

The club was extremely impressed with Wilson’s presentation to the previous committee some weeks earlier and a recommendation by that committee to the new committee was unanimously carried.

Leigh comes to MDU with an outstanding history in junior football and basketball coaching.

The MDU Football Club hierarchy feels Leigh’s fantastic communication skills with his players and a very sound tactical knowledge of the modern game will be paramount in his leadership at united.

President Wayne Cook said the club was delighted with the Wilson signing and MDU was proud of the fact that once again, they are forthright in giving a young aspiring

senior coach a chance to attain his dream.

The club is actively seeking new players of quality to bolster their stocks for the next season, with Leigh Wilson and Mick Hanily already burning the midnight oil in an ongoing recruitment drive.

Dave Trotman, the senior coach of the past three years, has taken over the job of football manager, and is closely liaising with Leigh and Mick.

On Monday, October 19, the Meeniyan-Dumbalk United Football/Netball Club held its AGM and appointed a revamped committee to take the club into the 2010 Alberton Football League season.

Last season’s president, Wayne Cook, remains at the helm with his assistant Tony Blake rejoining the committee as his vice president.

Andrew Mackie retains his position as junior vice president, with Annie Byng and Ally Opray staying in their roles as secretary and treasurer respectively.

Six new members to the gen-

eral committee are Trevor Thomas, Mick Charlton, Gary Forrester, John Matthews, Mick Hanily and Dave Trotman.

On the night, the coaching appointments for all four grades of football were signed off on.

The Demons Reserves job goes to veteran senior player Steve (Dogsbody) Trotman, who will take on a playing coach role.

The U18s will once again be led

by Adrian Coulter and the U15s remain under the guidance of former Leongatha and Stony Creek player Peter Hanrahan.

On Sunday, November 22, the club will hold a Meet the Coaches Family Day for all players and supporters to attend, with the plan being to have a number of new signings in attendance.

The club enters 2010 in an extremely sound financial position, with plans to update lighting and a new scoreboard on the table.

A robust sponsorship drive is also underway.

Leongatha golf

Good round: Ellie Scholte looks pretty pleased with her form.

In the swing at Meeniyan MEENIYAN Golf club is holding fun golf lessons for young players on Monday afternoons.

Club players help the newcomers come to grips with their swing and understand the rules of golf.

The lessons run from 4pm to 5.30pm with all welcome.

They will continue for another seven weeks.

Young Achievers Golf Squad THE Leongatha Golf Club is hosting the 2009 South Gippsland Young Achievers Golf Squad.

The squad consists of 13 boys from South Gippsland Clubs, and is under the guidance of PGA professional Scott Adams.

The squad training is possible due to a grant from the Victorian Golf Foundation and covers all facets of the game from driving, long iron, mid and short iron work through to chipping and putting.

The ages of the group range from nine years of age through to 17 years.

It is expected that the current group, which is in training will go on to represent the South Gippsland Junior Team in their various representative games that are played each year.

Participants include Blade Elms, Kodie Spokes, Daniel Wylie and Blayke Spokes (all Korumburra), Dean Williams (Wonthaggi), Brad Perks and Tyler Marotti (Korumburra), Chris Lawrence (Phillip Island), Travis Jones (Korumburra), Lachie Thomas (Leongatha), Jamie Fowler and Jack Ross (Phillip Island) and Riley Hanson.

SATURDAY’S ambrose turned out well for the McCarthy family, who recorded the excellent score of 69151/8-637/8.

Yes, they had a very healthy handicap, but to play the course in 69 without a low handicapper was a super effort from Lyn, Tim and Jeremy McCarthy, with help from John Mackay.

John Feddersen won the pro-pin on the 14th and Doug Clemann was nearest the pin on the 16th.

Teams to win balls: M. Stubbs, R. Hughes, J. Hassett, R. Beilby 55¾; B. Hutton, P. Blackney, J. Feddersen, K. Wardle 571/8; N. Savino, R. Thurston, R. Burton, G. McDonald 577/8 Tuesday Mick Oliver had a great round of 40 points which just got him over the line from the always threatening Geoff McDonald on 39.

Barry Attwood and Grant McRitchie were nearest the pin winners.

Ball winners: N. Wright 38, P. Barry 36, J. Smith, P. Hobson, J. Arnott 35; I. Murchie, G. Fixter, D. Webster 34.

Thursday With the course drying out and the grass on the greens starting to rise above the sand, the scores were very respectable. Rob Brown led the way in A Grade with 39 points, while Jim Arnott took B Grade with the day’s best score of 40 points.

Jim also won nearest the pin on the 14th, with Michael Thomas successful on the 16th.

Ball winners: I. Murchie, P. Hobson 38; K. Macfarlane, N. Smith 37; J. Eabry 36, A. Sperling, J. Curtis, I. Nunn, D. Vorwerg, R. Nelson, J. Renwick 35.

The annual mixed event with Meeniyan was held on Sunday, and alas we had to hand the trophy back.

Our best pair was Peter and Sharryn Rayson with 63 net, while for Meeniyan,

Graham Hoskin and Veronica Park had an unbeatable 57½. Those who played enjoyed a very pleasant day.

This Saturday’s event is stableford, with the Gordon West nine hole comp to follow on Sunday. Melbourne Cup Day is a shotgun stableford for men and ladies, hitting off at 9.30. Saturday, November 7 is monthly medal for November, but also the Star Medallist event.

Ladies THIS week saw the qualifying round of the Lois Cameron Canadian Foursomes played on a course showing the effects of the recent rains.

Winners of the day and first qualifiers were Toni West and Sharyn Rayson, 89/ 751/2. Runners-up were Trish Owen and Maxine Eabry, 92/ 77. Other qualifiers who won balls down the line were Wendy Surman and Debbie Erwin 78, plus Dot Stubbs and Di Williams 78 5/8.

Other ball winners were Maria Bell and Marea Maher 80, Ann Debenham and Shirley Welsford 80 1/4, Coral Gray and Marion Bellingham 81 1/2.

Toni West was nearest the pin.

Hannah Martin was the winner of the nine hole competition with 15 stableford points.

New leadership: incoming MDU senior coach Leigh Wilson coached his Korumburra/Bena thirds team to a win this season.

Meeniyan TUESDAY, October 20, single stroke whisky day, the winner was D. Gregg 65 net from F. Peile 66 net.

The fourball was won by R. McGeary and F. Peile 136 net, nearest the pin was A. J. McHarg and best nine went to J. Cusack 33 net.

Thursday, October 22 a single and four ball stableford event, the winner was R. Thomas 47 points from H. Richards 40 points.

The fourball winners were H. Richards and W. Richards with 40 points, nearest the pin, R. Thomas and best nine, R. Hannay with 20 points.

Saturday, October 24 was a fourball better ball stroke day with winners D. Thomson and D. Wright 55 net from L. Hemphill and C. Stewart 58 net, nearest the pin P. Smedley and down the line balls to J. Wilson and J. Cusack 59, I. Inglis and S. Bright 60, P. Smedley and C. Buckland 61.

Many thanks to Nagels Pharmacy in Leongatha for their valued sponsorship of this day.

Sunday, October 25 was our annual challenge against Leongatha Golf Club, with nine pairs from each club teeing off to fight for the shield, which was won by Leongatha last year.

This year our Meeniyan members were able to win it back by 625.5 to Leongatha 626.5.

The best players for Meeniyan with a score of 57.5 were V. Parks and G. Hoskin, the best from Leongatha, S. Rayson and P. Rayson 63.

Down the line balls went to J. Trease and I. Trease, J. Smith and A. de Bondt, P. Johnston and S. Hoskin, C. Buckland and D. Christie.

Many thanks to all who participated in a great day, many thanks also to the Meeniyan ladies for providing a lovely lunch.

Wonthaggi men

LAST Saturday’s stroke round was the normal struggle we have in the champiMirboo North golf onships. CCR was THERE were 18 starters for 72. the midweek stableford event on Thursday, October 22. The CCR was 70.

A Grade winner was Martin Sullivan (23) 40.

Down the line: Cec Eden (34) 36, Tim Scott (13) 35.

Birdies: 6th Joe Taylor and Jeff Hughes.

Ladies Results of 2nd round singles championships - stroke, played on Wednesday, October 21: Winner R. Leslie 104-3272.

Down the line: B. Stimson 100-25-75, C. Gunn 98-2276.

Nearest the pin: 4th R. Leslie, 16th R. Millsom.

Members should take time to congratulate the ground staff for the way the course was presented.

Winners on the day: A Grade E. Van Agtmaal 72, B Grade S. Scott 72, C Grade P. Chapman 71.

Balls down the line to 76.

Nearest the pins: 2nd P. Brusamarello, 4th S. Kane, 13th R. Furborough.

Pro pin 8th D. Van Agtmaal. Money was won by J. Jordan.

Daniel Van Agtmaal scored a hole-in-one on the 8th.

Semi finals were held on Sunday, with the finals this Sunday.

The draw is: Open 9.30am - P. Kane v D. Crellin; A Minor 9.40am - K. Jamieson v J. Foon; B Grade 11am - N. Cook v T. Dennis; C Grade 11.10am - B. Van Agtmaal v A. Bowmar; D Grade 11.20am - P. Chapman v V. Tuddenham.

Remember November 7 and 8 we have our classic which this year is generously supported

by Mona Cellars. Entry forms available in the golf shop. Good prizes are on offer.

Woorayl golf

ON Saturday Simford Welding Service sponsored our stableford event and the CCR was 69 or 39 points.

The A Grade winner was Paul Challis with 41 points, while B Grade and the day’s best score went to Peter Burgess with 46 points and C Grade was won by Vic Haasjes with 42 points, continuing on his good form from Thursday. The ladies winner was Shirley Thomas with 40 points.

Balls went to C. James, B. Robjant, G. Fennell, E. Poole, B. Thomas, A. Hillis and M. Stanes in a three-way countback.

The men’s nearest the pins were won by E. Jackson and J. Redmond. The ladies nearest the pin was only won on the 17th, Shirley Thomas also winning that one.

The Thursday chook run saw chickens to R. Bryovic and G. Winkler, with balls to G. Salmon and C. Wilson.

Thursday bar voucher went to Vic Haasjes with 39 points, with balls going to J. Diaper, D. Clemann and A. Hillis.

Next Saturday is our October monthly medal, when you have to count all your shots. It is also the 12th round of the Graeme and Heather Winkler Cup, the 8th round of the Ian Balfour trophy and the putting competition sponsored by John and Dianne O’Connor. The day is sponsored

by Leongatha Tattersalls.

Don’t forget that we have a working bee on Sunday, November 1 starting at 8.30am. Remember many hands make light work.

We also have a men’s and ladies stableford event on Melbourne Cup Day. The sheet is now out, so put your names down.

Woorayl ladies golf

ON Wednesday, October 21 a stableford (Rose’s Day) was played, sponsored by R. Wood. The AWCR was 72.

The winners were: A Grade M. Higgins 21/36, B Grade D. Jarvis 26/34, C Grade F. Maynard 30/37.

Nine holes out - J. Williams 16 on a countback.

Nearest the pin: 8th D. O’Connor, 17th D. Jarvis, 2nd shot on the 11th D. O’Connor.

Down the line balls: S. Wakefield, A. Grist, J. Smith, D. O’Connor, M. Harris on a countback.

Next week is social day at Meeniyan. Assemble at the clubhouse at 9am for car pool.

PAGE 60 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

• A GRADE DIVISION 1

Smith, Taberner smash Burra INVERLOCH’S opening batsmen Walter Taberner and Jason Smith hit a massive 205 runs between them, puttin=g the game out of reach for Korumburra.

Smith had been struggling in earlier matches, but asserted himself on the game and was still standing at the end of his team’s batting innings, with 107 runs to his credit.

Inverloch was well served by bowler Nathan Cant, who came away from the match with 3/23.

Trevor Allen hit 55 runs and Kyle Dorman 33 not out for Korumburra.

Nerrena v IMPS IMPERIALS had a good win in its A Grade Division 1 clash with Nerrena

on Saturday.

A slashing 95 runs from ever reliable Brett Pedlow set the team up for victory. He was backed by Dominic Davis, who hit 55 not out.

Another telling factor was the team’s deep bowling line up, with the wickets shared among seven players. Michael Malloy was best with his 3/38.

For Nerrena Tim Wightman and Damien Symmons were best with the bat, notching up 38 and 42 respectively. But it was not enough to save the team. Many other players, particularly the middle order, fell cheaply.

Workmens v Miners WONTHAGGI WORKMEN’S has smashed Wonthaggi Miners, who managed a paltry 65 run total in its chase.

David Brann and Tim Hooper led the charge with the bat. Brann finished with 46, while the bighitting Hooper smashed his way to 61. His innings included two sixes and four boundaries.

Leigh McGuirk was devastating with the ball, cutting a swathe through the Miners’ batsmen. He claimed five wickets for just seven runs, all but scotching the Miners’ chances of challenging the healthy total.

Glen Alvie v OMK GLEN ALVIE fell short in its run chase against OMK on Saturday.

The evenly-matched contest was of a high standard and both teams had batsmen hitting strong totals.

Glen Alvie’s opener Michael Roberts had his team looking like a good

Glen Alvie openers: Clay Tait and Mick Roberts scored 22 and 55 respectively.

chance with an aggressive 55 runs. The run machine hit five boundaries and one six on his way to the total.

On the other side was Jason Smith, who hit 56 for his team. The difference in the game was that Smith had a few more teammates making runs too.

OMK’s Barry Wyatt had the day’s best bowling figures of 2/21.

A GRADE DIVISION 1 IMPERIALS v NERRENA 1st Innings Imperials X. Davis c. T. Wightman b. C. Rump ..............................5 G. Sauvarin c. T. Mackie b. C. Rump ..............................6 B. Pedlow c. J. Renden b. G. Murphy .........................95 L. Rogers c. S. Checkley b. M. Chackochan ..................8 T. Williams c. C. Rump b. T. Wightman ........................6 D. Davis n.o. ............................55 N. Eddy n.o. ...............................1 Extras .......................................13 Total ....................................5/189 Bowling: C. Rump 2/59, R. Clark 0/14, M. Chackochan 1/18, T. Wightman 1/30, S. Checkley 0/19, D. Symmons 0/8, G. Murphy 1/38.

1st Innings Nerrena M. Clark c. D. Davis b. A. Eddy .............................19 T. Wightman b. N. Slater..........38 C. Friebe c. T. Williams b. N. Eddy ...............................8 D. Symmons c N. Slater b. M. Malloy .........................42 G. Murphy c. D. Davis b. L. Rogers .............................9 C. Rump b. M. Malloy ...............3 S. Checkley b. X. Davis .............2 R. Clark c. D. Davis b. J. Pellicano ..........................1 J. Renden c. T. Williams b. N. Eddy .............................29 M. Chackochan n.o. ...................3 T. Mackie n.o. ............................1 Extras ....................................... 11 Total ....................................9/166 Bowling: A. Eddy 1/16, J. Pellicano 1/22, X. Davis 1/25, M. Malloy 2/38, N. Eddy 2/28, N. Slater 1/15, L. Rogers 1/20.

INVERLOCH v KORUMBURRA

1st Innings Inverloch W. Taberner c. M. Patching b. U. Weerasinghe .................98 J Smith n.o. ............................107 D. Ruffin c. U. Weerasinghe b. D. Scott ...............................0 D. Clark c. K. Dorman b. D. Scott ...............................9 B. Debono n.o. ...........................0 Extras .......................................13 Total....................................3/227 Bowling: K. Dorman 0/49, M. Patching 0/27, D. Wyhoon 0/44, D. Scott 2/64, U. Weerasinghe 1/38.

1st InningsKorumburra D. Salmon c. L. Cummins b. A. Hall ..............................10 I. Osman c. J. Smith b. N. Cant ................................6 U. Weerasinghe c. B. Debono b. N. Cant ..............................10 J. Cook b. N. Cant ......................0 T. Allen c. L. Cummins b. B. Debono .........................55 D. Scott b. L. Rankin ...............14 D. Wyhoon c. D. Clark b. A. Ware................................0 K. Dorman n.o..........................33 K. Rigby c. A. Hall b. B. Debono ...........................2 A. Balfour c. D. Ruffin b. D. Clark ...............................0 M. Patching n.o. .........................9 Extras .......................................18 Total ....................................9/158 Bowling: N. Cant 3/23, L. Rankin 1/18, A. Hall 1/39, A. Ware 1/26, D. Clark 1/23, B. Debono 1/28.

WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v WONTHAGGI MINERS 1st InningsWonthaggi Workmens

D. Brann c. R. Thomas b. M. Johnson ........................46 C. Harvey c. M. Johnson b. R. Birkett .............................8 G. Britt b. J. Trevisi .................19 R. Thomas c. J. Andrighetto b. M. Johnson ..........................5 G. Bolding b. R. Birkett .............7 T. Hooper c. R. Birkett b. R. Thomas .........................61 M. Thomas b. J. Helman ............1 R. Geyer b. R. Thomas...............1 J. Sherrin n.o. ...........................13 L. McGuirk n.o. .........................8 Extras ....................................... 11 Total ....................................8/180 Bowling: J. Trevisi 1/32, R. Birkett 2/39, J. Helman 1/40, R. Thomas 2/37, M. Johnson 2/29.

1st Innings Wongthaggi Miners

M. Johnson c. G. Britt b. R. Thomas ...........................6 M. Donohue b. R. Thomas .........3 J. O’Reilly c. D. Brann

Next up: Glen Alvie’s Andrew Donohue scored 20 against OMK. b. L. McGuirk .......................15 J. Andrighetto c&b. L. McGuirk ..................13 C. Thomas c. G. Bolding b. L. McGuirk .........................3 L. Earl c&b. L. McGuirk ...........0 J. Trevisi c. D. Brann b. B. J. Sherrin.........................1 J. Helman c. G. Bolding b. J. Sherrin .............................3 R. Birkett c. L. McGuirk b. J. Sherrin .............................4 R. Thomas n.o. ...........................0 B. Mattock c. D. Brann b. L. McGuirk .........................2 Extras .......................................15 Total .........................................65 Bowling: R. Thomas 2/23, S. Williams 0/14, L. McGuirk 5/7, J. Sherrin 3/6, G. Bolding 0/5.

OMK v GLEN ALVIE 1st Innings Glen Alvie

M. Roberts c. D. McMeekin b. M. Adams ..........................55 C. Tait lbw. b. J. Wilson ...........22 A. Donohue c. N. Creed b. J. Wilson ............................20 P. Jordan b. B. Wyatt ................19 A. Simpson b. K. Rothier ..........0 P. Roberts r.o. J. Wilson .............1 S. Lowe b. B. Wyatt ...................7 L. Gennicarro r.o.

D. McMeekin ..........................4 J. Beasley n.o. ............................6 D. Hynes r.o. .............................2 K. Simpson n.o...........................0 Extras .......................................13

Total ....................................9/149

Bowling: J. Wilson 2/32, K.

Rothier 1/21, M. Adams 1/31, L.

Van Rooye 0/12, P. Dell 0/27, B. Wyatt 2/21.

1st Innings OMK

K. Rothier c. S. Lowe b. A. Simpson ..........................0 D. McMeekin c. C. Tait b. D. Hynes ...........................15 D. Creed c. S. Lowe b. K. Simpson........................32 J. Wilson c. J. Beasley b. A. Donohue .......................56 J. Van Rooye c. A. Simpson b. A. Donohue .......................15 N. Creed c. A. Simpson b. M. Roberts.........................10 M. Adams n.o. .......................... 11 B. Wyatt c. D. Hynes b. C. Tait ..................................0 A. Rose n.o.................................1 Extras .......................................21 Total ....................................7/161

Bowling: A. Simpson 1/25,

D. Hynes 1/24, J. Beasley 0/14, A.

Donohue 2/29, L. Gennicarro 0/16,

K. Simpson 1/29, C. Tait 1/11, M. Roberts 1/0, P. Roberts 0/7.

•A GRADE DIVISION 2

Town champions hits not out ton CHAMPION Town batsman Matt Smith helped his team to an emphatic win over Poowong Loch on Saturday.

While Smith had an unimpressive start to the season, he appears to be back to his best form. The slashing innings featured 11 fours and two massive sixes. Nathan Johnston continued his good form with the ball, snaring three wickets for 22 runs. Poowong Loch was well served by Paul Dyer, who finished the day 61 not out.

Inverloch v K’warra L’gatha RSL A solid batting performance

by Koonwarra Leongatha RSL ensured it an easy victory in its game against Inverloch.

Clinton Wise was best for Koony with 40 runs.

Inverloch wickets fell cheaply, with the bowling line up of Charles, Moscript and Kennedy claiming six wickets for 20 runs.

MDU v Wonthaggi Miners MEENIYAN DUMBALK UNITED defeated Wonthaggi Miners in a tough-fought competition on Saturday.

Led by opener Joel Sinclair, the batting prowess

of the MDU team was too much for the Miners. Sinclair notched up 49 runs, with five boundaries.

On the other side Paul Hammer was prematurely run out and appeared to be on his way to a big total when he fell for 47.

Steve Arnup was a stand out performer with the ball, claiming 3/20 for MDU.

Phillip Island v Fish Creek Tarwin PHILLIP ISLAND has proven itself too good for Fish Creek Tarwin, with Liam Keating leading the charge with the bat, scoring an impressive 87 runs. The breathtaking innings came with 12 boundaries.

Opener Russell Cleeland was great too, scoring 55 runs.

Fish Creek Tarwin’s Jason Law continued his good form with 39 runs.

A GRADE DIVISION 2

Poowong/Loch v Town 1st Innings Poowong/Long C. Knox c. M. Smith b. S. McCallum ..................... 11 M. Adderley c. R. Templeton b. N. Johnston ......................12 P. Dyer n.o. ...............................61 K. Nestor c. S. McCallum b. L. Bowman........................12 R. Greaves c. M. Smith b. L. Bowman........................24 B. Hancock c. C. Bruce b. N. Johnston ....................... 11

P. Duffus b. N. Johnston.............0 C. McCurdy r.o. M. Smith ....... 11 S. Jenkins n.o. ............................1 Extras .........................................8 Total ....................................7/150 Bowling: N. Johnston 3/22, S. McCallum 1/25, M. Davies 0/32, L. Bowman 2/27, A. Hickey 0/48.

1st Innings Town R. Templeton c. C. Knox b. A. Jenkins ..........................13 M. Davies lbw. b. A. Jenkins .....9 L. Bowman c. R. Greaves b. A. Jenkins ..........................12 M. Smith n.o. .........................100 C. Bruce lbw. b. R. Greaves .....27 A. Hickey c. M. Adderley b. K. Nestor .............................6 I. McCallum n.o. ........................9 Extras .......................................30 Total ....................................5/206 Bowling: A. Jenkins 3/28, R. Greaves 1/25, D. Brain 0/25, B. Hancock 0/31, S. Jenkins 0/21, P. Duffus 0/26, K. Nestor 1/20, C. McCurdy 0/13, M. Adderley 0/8.

Koonwarra RSL v Inverloch 1st Innings Inverloch B. Phillips c. G. Sperling b. J. Peters .............................16 T. Thornby c. S. Sperling b. J. Kennedy...........................7 S. Brayley c. L. Sperling b. J. Kennedy...........................2 N. Goodall c. J. Kennedy b. B. Davison...........................1 M. Foley stp. L. Sperling b. E. Charles ..........................24 J. Ogden c. G. Sperling b. C. Wise ...............................0 J. Jackson c. J. Moore b. B. Moscript .......................12 E. Everingham b. J. Moore ........5 G. Van Beek b. B. Moscript .......0 J. Dalmau n.o. ............................2 Extas.........................................15

Total .........................................84 Bowling: J. Peters 1/20, J. Kennedy 2/9, C. Wise 1/13, B. Davison 1/12, S. Sperling 0/4, B. Moscript 2/6, J. Moore 0/9, E. Charles 2/5.

1st Innings Koonwarra RSL C. Wise lbw. b. J. Dalmau ........40 B. Moscript lbw. b. J. Jackson .13 S. Sperling c&b. J. Dalmau......24 L. Sperling c&b. J. Jackson .....38 B. Anderson b. J. Ogden ..........30 B. Davison b. J. Jackson ............4 J. Kennedy b. S. Brayley............5 J. Peters b. S. Brayley ................0 J. Moore n.o. ..............................0 Extras .......................................35 Total .................................... 8/189 Bowling: J Dalmau 2/20, J. Ogden 0/39, J. Jackson 4/26, N. Goodall 0/34, M. Foley 0/24, E. Everingham 0/7, G. van Beek 0/11, S. Brayley 2/12, T. Thornby 0/8.

MDU v Wonthaggi Miners 1st Innings MDU S. Arnup c. J. Armstrong b. B. Zanella .......................... 11 J. Sinclair c. B. Foon b. R. Jones .............................49 C. Le Page c. B. Foon b. J. Armstrong ........................7 M. Le Page c. B. Zanella b. R. Jones .............................19 C. Hoober c. B. Foon b. D. Atherton........................28 B. Spokes c. W. Howson b. D. Atherton........................30 W. Prosser n.o. .........................14 M. Dower n.o. ............................9 Extras .......................................22 Total ....................................6/189 Bowling: J. Armstrong 1/43, B. Zanella 1/26, R. Jones 2/34, P. Cornelis 0/18, D. Atherton 2/56, P. Hammer 0/10.

Peter Dell: the OMK bowler in A1 at Glen Alvie.

1st Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Wright c. S. Arnup b. S. Browne..........................21 D. Atherton b. T. Corry ..............0 P. Hammer r.o...........................47 L. Jones c. C. Hoober b. S. Arnup ............................17 B. Foon c&b. M. Dower ..........15 W. Howson c&b. S. Arnup .........2 J. Armstrong b. S. Arnup..........12 B. Zanella r.o. .............................7 P. Cornelis c. M. Dower b. M. Olden .............................5 R. Jones n.o. ...............................0 T. Mayling n.o. .........................20 Extras .......................................15 Total ....................................9/161 Bowling: M. Dower 1/29, T. Corry 1/15, S. Browne 1/20, C. Hoober 0/28, B. Spokes 0/19, S. Arnup 3/20, M. Olden 1/25.

Phillip Island v Fish Creek/Tarwin 1st Innings Fish Creek/Tarwin M. Lynch c. L. Keating b. S. Boyack ............................1 G. Webster b. A. Dimech ...........4 J. Law c. C. Wilson b. M. Price .............................39 M. Watkins lbw. b. M. Price.....23 J. Danckert stp. J. Broomhall b. C. Wilson........................... 11 J. Shaw c. J. Broomhall b. R. Cleeland..........................2 G. Watkins r.o. C. Wilson.........21 N. Wilkins b. C. Wilson .............3 S. Rabbitt n.o............................12 Extras .......................................23 Total ....................................8/139 Bowling: A. Dimech 1/25, S. Boyack 1/2, J. Emery 0/33, M.

Price 2/21, C. Wilson 2/27, R. Cleeland 1/22.

1st Innings Phillip Island R. Cleeland b. S. Rabbitt..........55 T. Hornsby lbw. b. J. Danckert ...8 L. Keating b. D. Rubenis .........87 J. Emery lbw. b. S. Rabbitt.........0 C. Viljoen stp. M. Lynch b. M. Watkins ..........................8 K. Murphy n.o. .........................23 M. Price n.o. ...............................2 Extras .......................................24 Total ....................................5/207 Bowling: S. Rabbitt 2/53, J. Danckert 1/29, D. Rubenis 1/26, N. Wilkins 0/27, M. Danckert 0/10, M. Watkins 1/50, J. Law 0/12.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 61

Great start for Gatha U18s

LEONGATHA’S U18 team opened their Gippsland Cricket League season with a resounding victory over Warragul at Garfield on Sunday.

Top score: Leongatha’s star batsman Mitchell Clark leaving the ground after being dismissed for an impressive 137.

After losing the toss and being asked to bowl the team got away to a solid start, although the first Warragul wicket didn’t fall until the 18th over.

The medium pace bowlers had kept the batsmen to 1.5 runs per over. With the introduction of spin the game turned in Leongatha’s favour, as Sam Sperling claimed 4/23 off his 10 overs and James Sheerin bowled 10 magnificent overs of controlled leg spin, his figures were 2/10

which included 7 maidens.

Warragul were all out for 105.

Leongatha’s reply started well, with Mitchell Clark and Kallon Rigby adding 53 for the first wicket, before Clark took complete control of the Warragul bowling with partnerships of 53 with Justin Cook and 89 with his captain Clay Tait, before being dismissed for a brilliant 137.

With some happy hour hitting towards the end, the team amassed an impressive 5/245.

Simply the best: from left Sam Sperling, Clay Tait (C) and Mitchell Clark at the Under 18 GCL game at Garfield on Sunday, October 25. Sam was the best bowler for the LDCA, taking 4/23, while Mitchell was the best batsman, making 137.

Winning team: from left Leongatha and District Cricket Association’s Under18 team scored a win against Warragul on Sunday. Back row: Ben Hancock, Lachlan Sperling, Mitchell Thomas, James Sheerin, Jason Kennedy, Justin Cook. Front row: Mitchell Clark, Clay Tait (C), Sam Sperling (VC), Taylor Beard, Kallon Rigby.

B Grade cricket LDCA Under 16 LDCA B GRADE GCL Competition THE LDCA boys had a fine win in Round Two of the GCL competition on Sunday against Warragul District Cricket Association.

The match against the Warragul association was the first game for the team after the Round One washout which may be replayed down the track.

LDCA restricted Warragul to just 98 runs from 49 overs.

The bowling and fielding was exceptional. All bowlers contributed well - Eli Richards’ very tight spell of 10 overs, five maidens, one for six was a highlight.

LDCA chased down the runs very carefully, scoring seven for 142 cc; with opener Mitch Elliott 47 and skipper Alex Mantiet 34, the best of the batsmen. Coach Geoff Wyatt was very pleased with

the team’s effort and attitude in a promising start to the season.

LDCA v WDCA Bowling: M. McCall 2/14, J. Poynton 1/16, J. Cochrane 3/21, E. Richards 1/6, M. Olden 0/5, C. Harris 0/19, E. Charles 2/11.

1st Innings Leongatha & District Cricket Association M. Elliott c. J. Serong b. D. Fusinato ........................47 A. Pellin c. J. Ward b. J. Tynan ...............................6 A. Mantiet c. T. Fusinato b. J. Canty .............................34 E. Richards c. J. Ward b. J. Canty .............................12 T. Wyatt c&b. T. Fusinato .........3 M. McCall stp. J. Serong b. R. Mitchell ........................16 N. Allen r.o. ................................0 E. Charles n.o. ...........................7 M. Olden n.o. .............................1 Extras .......................................16 Total ....................................7/142 Bowling: J. Tynan 1/15, J. Smith 0/12, J. Ward 0/24, B. Williams 0/12, M. Ross 0/20, C. Carey 0/7, J. Canty 2/15, D. Fusinato 1/13, T. Fusinato 1/13, R. Mitchell 1/6.

LDCA ladders A Grade Division 1 Won Workmens .................47.71 Imperials ............................46.65 OMK...................................33.08 Nerrena ..............................22.44 Inverloch ............................22.12 Wonthaggi Miners.............20.79 Glen Alvie ...........................19.71 Korumburra ...........................7.31 A Grade Division 2 Koonwarra RSL ................46.79 Phillip Island......................46.71 MDU ...................................34.65 Fish Creek/Tarwin ............33.95 Town ...................................20.95 Won Miners .......................20.23 Poowong/Loch ......................8.14 Inverloch ...............................7.03 B Grade Foster..................................46.08 Phillip Island......................39.37 Nerrena ..............................39.29 Glen Alvie...........................37.29 Won Workmen’s ...............32.75 OMK...................................27.43 Imperials .............................26.65 Korumburra .........................13.73 C Grade Town ................................... 51.48 MDU ................................... 39.27 OMK................................... 38.60 Won Workmen’s ................ 38.42 Won Miners ....................... 28.27 Poowong/Loch ................... 25.76 Koonwarra RSL .................. 25.02 Fish Creek/Tarwin ............... 14.02

D Grade Town ................................... 51.75 Nerrena .............................. 39.24 Phillip Island...................... 39.18 Koonwarra RSL ................ 39.16 Korumburra ...................... 38.44 Inverloch ............................ 26.17 Imperials ............................. 13.34 Glen Alvie ........................... 12.13 E Grade Foster.................................. 53.39 Won Miners ....................... 50.03 Phillip Island...................... 41.16 Won Workmens ................. 30.64 Poowong/Loch ................... 27.32 MDU ................................... 25.52 OMK ................................... 14.67 Town.................................... 11.43 Under 16 East Town ................................... 15.10 Imperials ............................ 14.58 Korumburra ...................... 14.46 Foster.................................... 1.95 Fish Creek/Tarwin .............. 1.93 Koonwarra RSL .................. 1.44 MDU ..................................... 0.00 Under 16 West Won Workmens Gold........ 14.44 Won Miners ....................... 12.00 Poowong/Loch ..................... 7.91 Glen Alive............................. 7.71 OMK..................................... 1.30 Phillip Island........................ 0.00 Inverloch ............................... 0.00 Won Workmens Blue ............ 0.00

IMPERIALS v NERRENA 1st InningsNerrena J. Richards c. K. Gray b. D. Connelly .........................3 L. Jongebloed c. A. Pellin b. R. Mullens .........................25 T. West c. A. Meyer b. D. Connelly .........................8 W. Telfer c. A. Meyer b. D. Connelly .......................25 A. Harrison c. D. Langstaff b. C. Roughead........................0 Z. Trease c. A. Meyer b. R. Mullens ...........................9 B. Castles c&b. S. McLennan ..41 B. Croatto c. A. Meyer b. S. McLennan .......................2 R. Stubbs c. A. Meyer ‘ b. R. Mullens .........................5 J. Holloway c. A. Pellin b. R. Mullens ...........................3 V. Sasikumar n.o. .......................0 Extras .......................................13 Total .......................................134 Bowling: J. Fiddelaers 0/24, D. Connelly 2/37, C. Roughead 2/23, R. Mullens 4/18, S. McLennan 2/24.

1st Innings Imperials A. Meyer c. W. Telfer b. Z. Trease..............................2 A. Pellin c. B. Croatto b. Z. Trease..............................3 K. Gray c. B. Croatto b. W. Telfer ..............................8 R. Mullens b. J. Holloway .......19 T. Jans c. W. Telfer b. Z. Trease............................15 D. Langstaff c&b. J. Holloway ..8 D. Connelly c. W. Telfer b. B. Croatto ..........................26 T. Burgess stp. T. West b. V. Sasikumar .....................14 S. McLennan lbw. b. B. Croatto ............................0 C. Roughead lbw. b. V. Sasikumar .......................0 J. Fiddelaers n.o. ........................0 Extras .......................................13 Total .......................................107 Bowling: Z. Trease 3/38, W. Telfer 1/9, J. Holloway 2/13, R. Stubbs 0/20, V. Sasikumar 2/14, B. Croatto 2/12.

KORUMBURRA v FOSTER 1st Innings Korumburra C. Smith c. G. Wagstaff b. B. Coates .............................1 J. Greenwood lbw. b. R. Johnston..........................8 P. Edwards c. S. Hawking b B. Coates ..............................5 C. Bailey c. S. Hawking b. S. Westaway ........................2 B. Hayes c. G. Wagstaff b. P. Jervies............................33 A. McKinnon r.o. .......................0 S. Phillips c. G. Wagstaff b. B. Coates .............................7 H. Wyhoon r.o. ...........................3 J.Oxlee c. S. Hawking b. P. Jervies..............................0 A. Meade n.o. .............................6 P. Green b. J. Weston..................0 Extras .......................................12 Total .........................................76 Bowling: B. Coates 3/18, R. Johnston 1/4, S. Westaway 1/25, P. Jervies 2/14, J. Weston 1/9.

1st Innings Foster G. Wagstaff b. J. Oxlee ...........48 P. Dower c. H. Wyhoon b. B. Hayes ..............................6 T. Garvey c. H. Wyhoon b. J. Oxlee ...............................6 S. Hawking r.o..........................29 L. Kyne b. S. Phillips ................2 P. Jervies b. S. Phillips ...............7 S. Corrie c. J. Greenwood b. B. Hayes ............................17 B. Coates b. A. Meade .............10 S.Westaway c&b. A. Meade.......0 R. Johnston n.o...........................5 Extras .......................................27 Total ....................................9/157 Bowling: S. Phillips 2/42, A. Meade 2/12, P. Green 0/20, B. Hayes 2/23, J. Oxlee 2/22, J. Greenwood 0/22.

WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v PHILLIP ISLAND 1st Innings Wonthaggi Workmens S. Huitema c. J. Johnston b. E. Richards ........................13 S. Brann c. M. Wilson b. E. Richards .......................14 D. Britt c. D. Johnston b J. Kleverkamp ......................6 J. Wallace c. M. Wilson b. E. Richards ..........................7 J. Bolding c. J. Johnston b. D. Johnston .......................20 C. Pitman lbw. b. E. Richards ....0 S. Atkinson lbw. b. D. Johnston .........................2 A. McLean c. S. Docherty b. Z. Brown ...........................46 M. McCall c. J. Kleverkamp b. Z. Brown .............................6 S. Coldabella c. Z. Brown b. S. Kirton ..............................5 G. Ton n.o...................................0 Extras .......................................18 Total .......................................137 Bowling: S. Kirton 1/34, S. Docherty 0/11, J. Kleverkamp 1/15, E. Richards 4/19, M. Wilson 0/10, J. Johnston 0/25, A. Emery 0/13, Z. Brown 2/6.

1st Innings Phillip Island M. Wilson b. A. McLean ............1 J. Johnston b. G. Ton ................19 M. Cleary c. C. Pitman b. J. Bolding ..........................34 A. Manteit r.o.

J. Wallace, C. Pitman ............45 E. Richards c. J. Wallace b. S. Coldabella .....................18 D. Johnston b. J. Bolding ...........0 S. Kirton r.o. C. Pitman, J. Bolding ................................0 S. Docherty n.o. .........................0 Z. Brown c. D. Britt b. J. Bolding ............................3 J. Kleverkamp b. J. Bolding .......0 Extras .......................................17 Total ....................................9/137 Bowling: A. McLean 1/14, M. McCall 0/31, S. Coldabella 1/30, G. Ton 1/22, J. Wallace 0/17, J. Bolding 4/23.

GLEN ALVIE v OMK 1st Innings OMK T. Miller lbw. J. Hales ................6 K. Kerr b. R. Bolding ..............42 R. White c. S. Edwards b. D. Tiziani...........................56 J. Paterson c. J. Hales

b. R. Bolding ...........................2 P. Miller c. M. Huitson b. J. Hales ..............................20 T. Wyatt c&b. M. Huitson ..........5 L. Wilson n.o. .............................8 D. Jeffries n.o. ............................2 Extras .......................................15 Total ....................................5/156 Bowling: J. Hales 2/34, S. Nippers 0/16, S. Edwards 0/14, R. Bodling 2/27, D. Gilbert 0/21, M. Huitson 1/30, D. Tiziani 1/9.

1st Innings Glen Alvie S. Edwards b. J. Paterson ...........7 S. Smith n.o. .............................50 G. Chappell c. D. Jeffries b. B. Nation ...........................26 D. Tiziani r.o. T. Wyatt .............59 M. Huitson c. K. Kerr b. R. White ..............................5 B. Tiley c. T. Creed b. R. White ............................. 11 R. Bolding n.o. ...........................4 Extras .........................................4 Total ....................................5/166 Bowling: T. Creed 0/22, J. Paterson 1/27, D. Jeffries 0/29, B. Nation 1/13, T. Wyatt 0/14, R. White 2/37, K. Kerr 0/21.

LDCA Under 14 LDCA Under 14 players are advised that training for Country Week will take place at 9am +on Sunday at Outtrim reserve.

LDCA Under 14 Nerrena 7/70 v MDU 8 for 99: Nerrena batting: Adam Trotto (capt) 24 ret (4 fours).

Bowling: Adam Trotto 2/3, Jayke Hoy 1/9, Sam Anderson, Jarrod Hoy, Adrian Brown 1/1, Branson Amata 1/12.

Meeniyan batting: K. Robinson 26 ret (4 fours), Troy Sinclair 11.

Bowling: Sam Opray 1/16, Troy Sinclair 1/2, L Harrington 3/1, A. Richardson 1/7, K. Robinson 1/5.

Imperials 105 v Koonwarra RSL 56: Imperials batting: B. Davidson 21, L. Thwaites 19.

Bowling: L. Thwaites 1/9, K. McGalvin 4/ 6.

Koonwarra batting: B. Moscript 10, A. Campbell 10.

Bowling: R. Reed 3/3 and C. Reed 3/10.

Foster v Town - Town forfeited.

Leongatha District Cricket Association Umpire Appointments

Evans Petroleum Round 5 - October 31 & Nov 7 Home team Grade A1 Inverloch

Away Team v OMK

Imperials v Won Miners Korumburra v Nerrena Won Workmen’s v Glen Alvie Grade A2 Phillip Island v Inverloch Town v Koonwarra RSL Won Miners v Poowong/Loch Fish Creek/Tarwin v MDU Grade B Glen Alvie v Won Workmen’s Nerrena v Korumburra Phillip Island v Imperials OMK v Foster Grade C Poowong/Loch v Won Miners Koonwarra RSL v MDU Town v OMK Won Workmen’s v Fish Crk/Tarwin Grade D Koonwarra RSL v Town Nerrena v Imperials Korumburra v Inverloch Phillip Island v Glen Alvie Grade E Foster v Won Miners Phillip Island v Town Poowong/Loch v Won Workmen’s MDU v OMK * Check on Turf Grounds

Ground Umpire I Turf EC Kor W Turf

Graham Laird/ B. Thomas Clive Salmon Les White Alan Jordan

New L Turf WFG FCT

Richard Poole Luke Sullivan Alan Roberts Ken Lester

GA Nerr Rhyll OMK

Ian Thomas John Lea Bob Allan Daryl Sinclair

Loch Koon WC1 MR

Hank Boltong Kevin Smith Stephen Lanyon Herb Roberts

MM LV KSC Dal

Rod Grylls Geoff Wyatt John Williams Marion Wishart

FGC Inv Poow Dum

TBA TBA TBA TBA

PAGE 62 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Allambee Mirboo and District tennis HALLSTON were pleased with a big win.

The wind was not an issue this week and all players had a good day.

Koony and Leongatha North played the close match, with only two games in the result. The ladies and men’s sets and games were even, and the mixed gave Koony the two game win.

In A Reserve, in the Berrys Creek versus Leongatha match, Leongatha’s men won two of the three sets, but the sets were reversed in the ladies, with only four games the difference before the mixed.

Berrys Creek won the first two sets but the lead was too great. Leongatha won the third mixed.

Koonwarra were back on the winners’ list this week, with the win over Leongatha North. The sets were well contested but Koony had the advantage.

Baromi won all the men’s sets, setting up a good win. Foster won two ladies sets and a mixed.

In B Grade Gold won well against Korumburra, two tie-breakers to the Burra team. Well done.

Baromi were big winners this week at Maroon’s expense.

Red took the points against Hallston, a tie-

breaker to Red added to their points.

Koonwarra won 8/1, but the Mardan boys won the first men’s set and lost a tie-breaker. Well done.

Results A Grade: Koonwarra 5.54, Leongatha North 4.52; Hallston 8.70, Baromi 1.45; Leongatha - bye.

A Reserve: Koonwarra 7.50, Leongatha North 2.36; Berrys Creek 5.46, Leongatha 4.40; Baromi 6.47, Foster 3.33; Korrine - bye.

B Grade: Koonwarra 8.53, Mardan Blue 1.27; Mardan Red 7.50, Hallston 2.30; Baromi 9.54, Outtrim Maroon 0.17; Outtrim Gold 7.54, Korumburra 2.28; Leongatha - bye.

Ladders A Grade Hallston ................................29.0 Koonwarra ...........................26.5 Baromi ..................................23.5 Leongatha North ................19.5 Leongatha..............................10.5 A Reserve Berrys Creek........................30.5 Korrine .................................25.5 Leongatha ............................25.0 Baromi ..................................22.5 Koonwarra.............................20.5 Leongatha North ...................20.0 Foster.......................................8.0 B Grade Outtrim Gold .......................36.0 Baromi ..................................34.5 Koonwarra ...........................27.0 Mardan Red.........................26.0 Leongatha..............................21.5 Outtrim Maroon ....................19.0 Hallston .................................14.5 Korumburra ...........................13.5 Mardan Blue............................5.0

Forehand return: Don Creed in action for Outtrim’s B Grade team on the weekend.

Mirboo North & District Junior Tennis IN Round 2 on Saturday, October 17 there was a decisive A Grade win by Mardan over Meeniyan, but a nail biter on the C Grade courts with Meeniyan winning by 2/18 over Mardan 2/12.

A Grade Fish Creek had a strong win over Baromi Superstars and the C Grade Fish Creek proved a bit too strong to the up and coming Leongatha North, but there was still a very close first set.

One B Grade result is missing, so could the winning team manager

please phone them through. Results will not be chased up as it is time consuming.

Thank you to team managers that rang through and then posted results.

Please let it be noted that Meeniyan is lodging a late exemption request for their C Grade team.

Due to this team being put together at the last moment it has just been realised all the girls turned 12 before October.

The committee has discussed the age, standard of the team and also the spirit of the game. Please direct any queries to Dan Monaghan 5664 1234 or Tarnya Wilson 5664 7473.

Round 2 A Grade Mardan Bombers ...................16 Fish Creek .................................9 Baromi Legends........................7 Meeniyan...................................6 Leongatha Adidas.......................6 Baromi Superstars ......................4

B Grade Dumbalk Nth Aces ...................9 Fish Creek White .....................8 Mardan Lions ...........................7 Leongatha Converse ................7 Leongatha Asics .......................5 Fish Creek Red .........................3 Baromi (bye) ..............................3

C Grade Leongatha Pumas ...................12 Leongatha Dunlops ................10 Meeniyan Demons ....................9 Fish Creek .................................7 Leongatha North ......................4 Baromi Reebok .........................4 Mardan Rebels ...........................3 Baromi Nike .............................2# Leongatha Reeboks ..................2# Hallston ......................................1

Ryan Cruickshank: serves for Outtrim against Korumburra on Saturday afternoon at Korumburra.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - PAGE 63

Kit Rothier: the OMK bowler took 1/21 against Glen Alvie on Saturday.

Sara Riseley: attempts a personal best in the Under 10 girls’ high jump.

Basketball tournament: Stef Busuttil and Yasmin Bohn were playing for Foster on Saturday.

Top score: Leongatha’s star batsman Mitchell Clark leaving the ground after being dismissed for an impressive 137.

Another run: Glen Alvie’s Clay Tait at his home ground on Saturday.

Malaysian bound: Lisa Bronwing, a Leongatha area teenager, will compete in horse events overseas in November.

In the zone: Aden Vandermeer is a picture of concentration.

Super coach: Leigh Nugent, the Australian Youth and Development Coach for Swimming Australia, ran two clinics for South Gippsland Swimming Association Members during the weekend at SPLASH.

’Burra boys: Jasper Macri and Jordan Bell were playing for the Wildcat’s U14s team on Saturday.

Left: Big hitters: Ben Ellen and Brett Thorson practice their chipping on the Meeniyan Golf Club’s greens.

PAGE 64 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, October 27, 2009

The 500

By Matt Dunn

THE understated Peter Dell lets his bowling do the talking.

very close,” he said.

But Peter is not the only one who has been at OMK for more than a few years. It is testimony to the strength of the club and hints at the bond these men share.

“A lot of the blokes I started with are now playing in the lower grades, but I’m playing with some of their sons. We seem to think of OMK as a family club. Once you’re there you don’t tend to leave,” he said.

As far as the allure of playing cricket, Peter’s reasons are simple: “It’s something I like doing.”

Peter started playing the game when he was nine years old and it quickly became a part of him.

“I went to watch my brother Andrew play once. His team was short, so I filled in…and I’m still playing now,” he said.

Club and LDCA secretary Gary Adams said Dell was a great example of a player who has made the most of his talents.

“He has been a really good club man and is a good example of a guy who puts a lot into cricket and gets a lot out of it,” he said. “He’s a great clubman who has always been there to help out.”

You’ll never hear this OMK champion blowing his own trumpet. But after claiming more than 500 wickets, Dell is the name on everyone’s lips.

Peter reached the milestone last week when his team took on Imperials in the A Grade Division 1 clash, but the magnitude of the achievement was barely an afterthought.

When this journalist said what a top effort he thought it was, Peter replied: “Yeah, I s’pose it is.”

“I’ve been playing at Outtrim for about 15 years, but I’ve been playing for a lot longer than that,” he said.

“I started at Workmens. I’m 36 now.”

OMK’s opening bowler, Peter likes to mix it up. While he was a paceman early on, he has introduced spin to his game in the last few seasons.

“I used to bowl medium pace, but now I bowl both,” he said.

It’s a mixture that often confounds opposition on batsmen, for they’re never quite sure what will come me next.

Debut: 1993 Peter said the figure of 500 wickets had not been in n Matches: 21 7 (all in A G his mind much until recently. rade) Wickets: 50 0 wickets “A couple of weeks ago we were talking about it. I Average: 15 realised I only needed five wickets. It became a goall .4 then, but really it’s just another number to me,” he Best bowlin g : 7 /75 said.

Overs bowle d: 3500 at st He could not say whether he would ever claim art of seaso Seven times n OMK bowli 1000 wickets, but he certainly has no plans to give ng averages F iv e w ti inner mes OMK cr the game away any time soon. icketer of th e year “The 1000 is 15 years away. I’ve still got five or Best clubma n award win six years in me in A Grade, and I’ll probably go ner Four times m o st dedicated cr back through the grades as I get older,” he said.

Twice winn icketer er LDCA A Peter has been motivated to play because of a Grade bowli ng averages strong bond with his team-mates.

Life member OMK “It’s all about playing with your mates.

Multiple Co untry Week They’re a really good bunch of blokes. We’re representa

tive

Lisa’s long ride to Malaysia

By Chris Brown A LEONGATHA student is off to Malaysia to compete at horse events early next month.

Lisa Browning was selected for the Malaysian Pony Club Invitational Challenge after a strong performance at a racing industry Talent Identification Program Camp in the Western District.

The 17-year-old was one of only four people chosen to travel to Malaysia.

The trip will be Lisa’s first time overseas and she had to make a quick journey to Melbourne last week to get a passport.

She will leave Australia next Tuesday and return on November 11.

“It will be a really good week. We get there and are given our horses,” Lisa said.

“We’re allocated grooms, which will be good.

“It will be interesting to see the different culture and different techniques of handling horses and their levels of riding compared to here.”

Lisa only found out she would be heading to Malaysia on October 12.

“It was totally out of the blue,” she said.

“I was pretty excited; pretty keen.”

Her trip will be sponsored by website Racing Banc.

As soon as Lisa could walk she was riding her own horse and saddling up.

And her commitment to the equine industry hasn’t decreased as she’s got older.

Several mornings a week, Lisa is a track rider

for horse trainer Len Bell at Stony Creek.

It means getting out of bed at 5.10am for a 6am start at the race track.

On race days and trials she works as a strapper.

Every weekend Lisa competes at horse events such as dressage and show jump as well as participating in pony club and the adult riding club.

The Malaysian Pony Club Invitational Challenge and show jumping competition will be at Terengganu from November 5 to 7.

Competitors are likely to have an opportunity to meet the King of Malaysia, who is an equine endurance racer.

After the challenge, Lisa will demonstrate track riding at the Ipoh Racecourse in front of Malaysian horse racing industry members.

The Talent Identification Program Camp was held at Glenormiston TAFE earlier this month.

From this pool of 20 riders, four were selected to go overseas.

South West TAFE Equine and Racing Consultant Chris Watson said the Malaysia selection panel choose the best riders who could compete overseas.

“Lisa is a totally dedicated girl with great riding skills and we thought she would be ideal to go,” he said.

“She has a number of certificates from pony club and she works hard to stay involved in pony club and keep a horse, and we’re confident she will perform well in Malaysia.”

Malaysia bound: Leongatha’s Lisa Browning will compete in the Malaysian Pony Club Invitational Challenge.