The Great Southern Star - February 28, 2017

www.thestar.com.au TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2017 - $1.40

Pages 17-23

Autumn

Home & Garden

Fillies fun

Page 50

SHIRE SPROUTS OFF

By Brad Lester

SOUTH Gippsland could become a major horticultural centre in Victoria, injecting tens of millions of dollars into the economy and potentially creating 1000 jobs in the region in the long term.

A South Gippsland Shire Council delegation toured Schreurs and Sons’ massive property at Middle Tarwin last Tuesday, February 21 and heard of the company’s plans to grow the property into a potential $50 million business with the eventual prospect of 200 jobs.

Produce under the company’s Tarwin Farm brand is now being exported, mainly to Malaysia, and the company also sells to Dubai, Singapore and Japan, as well as to IGA supermarkets at Tarwin Lower, Leongatha and Korumburra.

Continued on page 3.

Go team: cheering for Mirboo North Secondary College at the interschool swimming carnival at Korumburra last Tuesday, February 21, were, front, from left, Harry Mahoney, Ethan Woodall and Beau Peters, and back, from left, Melissa Blackshaw, Stephanie Parker, Eryn Elger and Jaimie Chila. Secondary schools from across the region competed in the carnival, including Mirboo North, Foster, Leongatha, Korumburra, Wonthaggi and overall winners, Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College. Read more on page 55.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 3

Vegie millions South Gippsland could be a horticultural powerhouse Continued from page 1.

Other horticultural companies are also expressing an interest in relocating operations to South Gippsland because of the region’s stable climate, Cr Andrew McEwen told The Star after visiting the property.

That prospect would greatly benefit the economies of South Gippsland and particularly the nearby commercial and industrial centre of Leongatha.

“In the next 10 years, if we have 1000ha of intensive horticulture moving into the area, it would create over 1000 jobs for the district,” Cr McEwen said.

“This is fantastic and an opportunity for the region’s agriculture to diversify.

It’s not just labouring jobs but also jobs in marketing and science, so there will be opportunities for young people in the district to have career paths.”

Cr Maxine Kiel, also part of the council delegation, said other growers would be welcome.

“There are many similar opportunities available for businesses/growers to relocate to our region and the South Gippsland Shire Council will be very supportive of any other enquiries,” she said.

Chris Schreurs, the company’s director of business and commercial operations, expected the Middle Tarwin site to be expanded over the next 10 years.

“That means jobs growth. There could be 200 jobs and more as we grow.

It’s not going to happen in one hit,” he said.

“We are really just in the beginning phase of it at the moment.”

The company has seven properties on the Mornington Peninsula, Clyde, Devon Meadows and Middle Tarwin.

“Tarwin will eventually be the biggest production over the next five to six years,” Mr Schreurs said.

Housing growth at Clyde is not compatible with farming, Mr Schreurs said.

Mr Schreurs said Middle Tarwin appealed because of its stable climate, quality soil, proximity to the coast minimising risk of frost and access to ample water.

“Last year we did a 50 acre trial crop and it worked out really well,” he said.

By the middle of April this year, the Middle Tarwin site is expected to have 165 acres of celery under full irrigation, with water sourced from the Tarwin River.

Once that crop is harvested, leeks and leaf crops will be planted. The company leases 887 acres at Middle Tarwin.

A farm manager is the only full-time employee at

Impressive operation: South Gipplsland Shire Council staff and councillors inspected the horticultural operation run by Schreurs and Sons at Middle Tarwin last Tuesday, February 21. From left, council’s Danielle Todaro, Cr Maxine Kiel, Cr Andrew McEwen, Adam Schreurs, Chris Schreurs and council’s Paul Stampton.

Middle Tarwin but more staff will be employed there as the operation grows.

Mr Schreurs praised council for its support so far, with council staff as-

sisting with permits and advising on environmental management such as suitable native trees to plant as windbreaks and natural filtration systems.

Cr Kiel said, “Council is working with Schreurs to assist in whatever way we can, including with guidance from the planning team and support from the

economic development team.”

Schreurs and sons is a third generation family farming business and is fully Australian owned.

Asbestos lingers in Inverloch school yard

By Brad Lester ASBESTOS may finally be removed from the grounds of Inverloch Primary School after a slow response from the Department of Education and Training.

The low risk asbestos was discovered in a popular part of the playground late last year, but until last week, the school council had no indication from the department about when the asbestos would be removed.

That was until The Star contacted the department for comment last week and school council was then advised “technical experts” from the department would attend the school last weekend. They will now prepare a report.

The affected area, north of the school oval, has been cordoned off with temporary fencing, reducing the amount of shaded playground available to the school’s students to play.

With just shy of 400 children in the yard at lunchtime, there is already limited room for them to play.

School council president Mick Hughes said, “We’ve been led to believe it’s cheaper to fence it off than it is to remove it.

“There’s just a lack of enthusiasm to get the job done.”

Despite failing to treat Inverloch’s situation as a priority, a department spokesperson said, “Inverloch is the only school with work/monitoring currently under way” in Gippsland.

“Where asbestos is identified in soil, ongoing monitoring and assessment is required to determine the level of contamination and the appropriate approach to address the matter. The process of assessing soil with some identified asbestos can take a Leongatha business: Kerryl, Camille and owner of Lulu’s Cafe Gaby Webber represent number of months and may require remediation. “ Mr Hughes suspected the asbestos may have one of the few cafes that will not be affected by the penalty rates cut due to not opening on been dumped many years ago and said it was not public holidays or Sundays. dangerous to children.

The contaminated soil is among native trees that provide vital shade for children in a relatively open playground.

“If they remove the top soil, they will kill the By Jessica Anstice on July 1, 2017. trees and there is no funding to repair it. We will It is recommended workers should pay close athave to do it ourselves,” Mr Hughes said. tention to their pay slips in the meantime.

EMPLOYEES are being warned to In hospitality the penalty rate for full-time and check their pay slips carefully over the part-time employees will be cut from 175 to 150 per next few months to make sure their Sun- cent.

There’s no change to the Sunday rate for casuals day and public holiday penalty rates are which will stay at 175 per cent. proved seasonal conditions, current commodity pricing not being decreased.

“It gives more opportunity for businesses to The Fair Work Commission announced last employ more people,” Lulu’s Cafe business owner and the realisation of planned cost reduction initiatives Thursday that 25 to 50 percent will be cut off penalty indicate improved milk prices for suppliers”.

Gaby Webber said.

The CEO said MG was now conducting a review rates for workers in the hospitality, fast food, restauof its operations that would look to increase milk sup- rant, retail and pharmacy industries.

But the changes do not come into effect right ply, which fell 20.6 percent compared to the same peaway. riod last year.

For Sunday penalty rates, the Fair Work ComThe review would also determine the future of MG’s factories, including the Leongatha factory that is mission has proposed for the reductions to take place in a series of annual adjustments. a major employer in South Gippsland.

For public holiday rates, the cuts will take effect “It would be premature to draw on the outcome of the review and the timeline of the completion of that review,” Mr Mervis said.

The CEO visited the Leongatha factory earlier this month on his third day in the job and also inspected the Leongatha South farm run by Tim Jelbart and family.

TER1830078 His late father, Max Jelbart, was a director of MG. SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council conMr Mervis will return to Leongatha during the next firmed there was a mechanical issue at round of supplier meetings on Wednesday, March 29. the Mirboo North outdoor swimming Mr Mervis said MG’s reported loss of $31.9 million “did come as major surprise to many who followed the pool on Sunday, February 19. cooperative closely”.

A council spokesperson said the issue was rectified The board has declared a fully franked interim diviwhile the pool was closed on Monday and Tuesday last dend/distribution of 1.7 cents per share/unit to be paid week.

The Leongatha Primary School swimming carnion March 30 to registered shareholders/unitholders. val was due to be held at the Mirboo North pool on Chairman Phil Tracy remains on the board but Monday and rescheduled to SPLASH in Leongatha on will resign from the board soon, as he indicated at last Wednesday. year’s annual general meeting.

Council said the issue would not have had any im► For the full statement released by MG on Fripact on people swimming at the pool on Sunday, in the day, see The Great Southern Star’s Facebook page.

Penalty rates slashed

MG offers little optimism

By Brad Lester MURRAY Goulburn suppliers look like facing a long wait before the cooperative pays a decent milk price.

New chief executive officer Ari Mervis said it would be “premature” to indicate when farmers would be paid what they could consider a genuine price, after MG released its first half results for the current financial year on Friday.

MG will maintain its forecast milk price of $4.95 per kilogram of milk solids for this financial year, with the remaining potential step-up just three cents a kilogram.

Rival Fonterra recently announced a step-up to bring its average farmgate price to $5.20.

While Mr Mervis would not be drawn on how he thought farmers would react to the prospect of a rise of just three cents a kilogram, he said, “In order to have a strong cooperative, we need to have strong farmers”.

A statement issued by MG on Friday did not give farmers hope, saying any potential step-up was “subject to there being no further material deterioration in milk intake, dairy commodity prices and AUD:USD exchange rate remaining broadly in-line with current spot, as well as no adverse change in trading conditions or regulatory environments in key markets.”

The same statement said MG had been given confidence for the outlook beyond this financial year by “im-

Leongatha Chemist on Duty

Mirboo North pool issue resolved

South Gippsland Swimming Association relay day.

TERRY WHITE CHEMIST THIS SUNDAY 10am - 1pm

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Couple in world first study

By Caroline Varrasso Crawford

Ziggy to assess the safety of skin-to-skin care for very preterm babies on breathNEW parents Jessie and Matt Holland ing support. from Mirboo North have taken part in Skin-to-skin care, also known as kangaroo a world-first study with their baby boy care, is a process in which a newborn child is

“I was a little apprehensive at first. He was so small and had so many wires and tubes hooked up to him,” Matt said about holding Ziggy for the first time.

“He was very fragile in those early stages and I really had no idea how it would affect him.”

The study was conducted at the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne on 40 preterm babies from 26 to 30 weeks gestation, and Matt and Jessica were happy to be involved after Ziggy was suggested for the study.

“As we had been doing from the very start, we listened to our nurses and doctors as they really

pushed us to experience the whole skin to skin thing. They reassured us that not only would it be extremely beneficial for Ziggy, it was also super important for both of us to take such an early opportunity to connect with our tiny little man,” Matt said. placed on their parents’ bare chest wearing just “I’m really happy that they did. He was clearly a nappy. a lot calmer when he was resting on one of us and The care is said to have many health benefits I definitely felt more like his dad when I actually including improving weight gain, reduce infecgot to hold him. tion, and improving infant-parent bonding and “It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever breastfeeding in term babies, but had not been had and it certainly made a tough situation that little bit easier to handle.” studied on babies like Ziggy before.

Ziggy Holland was born on December 7, 2016 10 weeks and one day early, weighing just 1214 grams and 37.5cms long.

He was born via emergency caesarean at the Royal Women’s Hospital after Jessica was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia.

“We cannot thank the Leongatha Hospital and the Leongatha Medical Clinic enough,” Jessie said.

“They were so thorough and it is a shame that we couldn’t have our little man at our wonderful local hospital.”

Seventy-two hours after Ziggy was born, he was finally able to be held by his mother thanks to the skin-to-skin care.

“It was so scary the first time that I finally got to hold him. He was so small and fragile,” Jessie said.

“I knew that I would feel better after I finally got to hold my little son, but I was so unsure if it was good for him.

“I love that this research has been done to reassure all the mums and dads that it benefits us all.”

Hold you close: new mum and dad, Jessie and Matt Holland from Mirboo North held their The study has shown skin-to-skin care is safe baby boy Ziggy using skin-to-skin contact in a new study conducted at the Royal Women’s for very preterm babies like Ziggy who need respiratory support.

Hospital.

Chloe to perform at statewide showcase LEONGATHA Secondary College Year 12 student Chloe Wylie was recently named one of the best music performers in the state.

She was chosen to play an Australian composition called Into the Dreaming by Peter Sculthorpe on her classical guitar.

Chloe was selected by the Victorian Certificate of Education examiners to perform in the Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority Top Class

music concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre to a sold out audience on March 22.

She completed her Unit 3 and 4 VCE music course last year in Year 11.

The concert features students who received A+ on their VCE performance examination.

All of Chloe’s older siblings played the classical guitar from a young age.

“I guess it was inevitable I would soon follow in their footsteps,” Chloe said.

She started playing when she was eight, and over the

years she has had many ups and downs about playing the guitar.

“I have tried to quit many times but my music teachers and my mum encouraged me to keep playing,” she said.

Having been chosen for this concert has helped make Chloe feel as if all the years of practice have paid off.

Chloe is now considering studying music at university.

“I think it would give me a good opportunity to reach my full potential,” she said.

Talented: Leongatha Secondary College Year 12 student Chloe Wylie was selected by the Victorian Certificate of Education examiners to perform in the Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority Top Class music concert.

per” a sp ew n y it n u m m co r ou Y “

36 McCartin Street, Leongatha 3953 Postal : PO Box 84 LEONGATHA 3953 Telephone : 5662 2294 Fax : 5662 4350 Web : www.thestar.com.au Editor Brad Lester : news@thestar.com.au Advertising Manager Joy Morgan : advertising@thestar.com.au Find us on Facebook Produced and published by Giles Newspapers Pty Ltd and printed by Latrobe Valley Express, Morwell.

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 5

Council, RSL sign off on plan to swap land

Golden deal

By Brad Lester LEONGATHA is closer to receiving a new look entertainment precinct and council offices after a groundbreaking decision by South Gippsland Shire Council last Wednesday.

Council unanimously voted to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Returned and Services League of Australia (Victoria branch) to start investigating a land swap.

The arrangement would see council buy the existing Leongatha RSL venue in Michael Place in return for it selling its Carino’s office complex at 6-12 Smith Street to the

Forward news off the F d thinking: thi ki th prospective ti land swap between South Gippsland Shire Council and the Leongatha RSL as reported in The Star on February 7 this year.

Leongatha RSL Sub-branch.

The RSL proposes to build a multi-level complex of cafes, bistro, gaming room, indoor and outdoor bars, function rooms and on-site parking with the prospect for accommodation, on the site of Carino’s, the old veterans welfare centre and the former kindergarten in Michael Place.

Acquiring the current RSL site could enable council to expand its current offices or redevelop the entire site to include a state of the art civic centre.

Cr Aaron Brown said, “This is probably a once in a generation opportunity to do a project of this scale.

There is not really anything in South Gippsland of this magnitude.”

Deputy mayor Cr Maxine Kiel said the “fantastic project” “opens up huge opportunities for both associations”.

Cr Andrew McEwen said the move “could lead t the revitalisation of Leongatha”. to “With a hotel there, it could lead to $5000 to $$10,000 being spent on discretionary services in L Leongatha each day,” he said.

“It provides council with a way of looking at a community hub in the RSL building, saving co council dollars, which could be of net benefit to the co community and the ratepayers.”

Cr Don Hill said the proposal was a “win, win for both sides”.

Leongatha RSL Sub-branch president Steve Wi Wisdom was delighted with the progression of plans.

“It’s just fantastic. We’re very happy about it. We hav have a lot of feasibility studies to do and that is the firs rst hurdle. We think it will be sensational for the tow town,” he said.

Representatives of council and the RSL discussed the proposal earlier this year.

The RSL believes the new complex would secure its llong term sustainability and offer function facilities Leo Leongatha needs.

The RSL has received greater demand for fun functions of up 350 people for conferences, debutante bal balls, large weddings, musical entertainment and shows, but has been unable to cater for such crowds at its existing venue.

Council will consider a further report on the proposal once investigations are completed.

Tractor power: Graeme and Steve Harley from Nyora showed their 1925 Detroit Fordson tractor at the South Coast Show ‘n’ Shine at Toora on Sunday. They restored the tractor to its former glory after it was a farm yard wreck.

Car show shines THE second South Coast Show ‘n’ Shine at Toora attracted a huge crowd on Sunday, with organisers estimating almost 4000 people passed through the gates.

Event mastermind Joe Allan guessed there were more than 250 entrants, including cars, trucks, motorbikes and for the first time, old tractors.

Toora Football Netball Club had a big day catering according to president Trent Crawford.

“Last year’s event was an excellent fundraiser for the club. This year we finetuned

a few things and made it even more successful, like the inclusion of a barbecue which complemented the canteen,” he said.

The day provided family fun for everyone.

“The army tanks and their battle reenactments were a big hit, as was all the fun free stuff for the children,” Mr Crawford said.

“The helicopter rides were another big attraction with many visitors taking the opportunity to see Toora and surrounds from the air.”

Those involved with the show have praised the organisers on a well run event.

Planning is already starting for the 2018 event.

Former councillor pleas for rates relief municipal precinct was a good idea.”

“It’s a staggering amount of SOUTH Gippsland Shire money and this community canCouncil has been urged to not afford this,” he said.

“Long term options that could spare ratepayers increases have cost $5 million have just in rates for two years after been ignored.” councillors unanimously Cr McEwen said the savings could be invested into attracting abandoned the proposed new businesses to the shire. $32.36 million municipal Mr Lewis said the 2016-17 precinct project. adopted budget showed $9.12 The project – comprising million in cash was progressively new council offices, a library and being put aside from rates until community hub in Leongatha 2021-22, when council proposed was a major contentious issue in to build the municipal project. last year’s council election.

“Many people in our shire Former councillor David Lewhave fixed or falling incomes or Novel idea: former South is said forgoing the project would are otherwise facing tough times, free up $9.12 million worth of Gippsland Shire councillor, so I submit this $9 million should David Lewis. rates and said these savings should be used to reduce the future burbe returned to ratepayers. Council den on ratepayers,” he said.

CEO Tim Tamlin told The Star council did not have Mr Lewis said one option would be for council $9 million in reserves for the project. to have no rate increases in the first two years of the Mr Lewis addressed council last Wednesday current council. morning before council that afternoon voted to reLast Wednesday, council also voted to progress move capital expenditure and borrowings associated development of a community hub in Leongatha that with the project from council’s 2017-18 draft budget would include a new library, and further consider and Long Term Financial Plan. the refurbishment of the existing council offices at “This effectively kills the project,” Mr Lewis, of 9 Smith Street.

Hallston, said.

That could eventually include the existing Le“However there is no mention of the future ongatha RSL, after council entered into a memoranplans for $9 million of cash in the agenda report dum of understanding to acquire that site through a or in the recommendations from council officers. land swap with the RSL, by exchanging council’s Hopefully the $9 million will be used to reduce the Carino’s office site. burden on ratepayers rather than being allocated to Council’s decision last Wednesday came after the new spending.” previous council, in November 2015, voted to refer Mayor Cr Ray Argento said council would disa decision about the municipal office precinct to the cuss what to do with the money during deliberations new council in 2017 for further consideration. over the next budget.

Council voted in response to community calls to abandon the project due to its cost. The project was a significant issue for voters during last November’s council election that returned councillors Don Hill and Andrew McEwen, who both campaigned for the project to be scaled down.

CR DON Hill remains adamant the true cost of Cr Hill said, “During the campaign, only two the municipal precinct project was $32 million, people I spoke to in 14 weeks thought building a not the $24.72 million listed in the council report

By Brad Lester

Precinct cost still contentious

last Wednesday.

Research by The Star backs his case.

Cr Hill said the council report omitted interest costs on borrowings of $13.6 million. CEO Tim Tamlin told The Star council modelled for interest of $7.64 million, which when added to the $24.72 million cost listed in the council report to last Wednesday’s meeting gives a total of $32.36 million.

“It’s impossible to say what the true cost of the project would have been,” Mr Tamlin said.

He said the project did not advance to detailed design would have indicated whether or not the $24.72 million figure was high or low.

“In addition council would have sought capital grant funding for the project of $1.95m. Depending on what grants were available, this figure might have increased or decreased. The project cost would have gone up or down accordingly,” he said.

“The cost of interest is also subject to the interest rates at the time of taking out a loan. On current modelling the interest was $7.64m. This would have been paid over 20 years ($382,000 pa). The true cost would depend on the interest rates in 2022.”

Less council staff likely SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council now has a “golden opportunity” to redesign new council offices taking into the account the impact of technology and likely loss of staff, Cr Andrew McEwen told council last Wednesday.

He said council was likely to require less staff when home and community care services become privatised, and advancing internet technology meant staff could work from premises other than a main council building. He said libraries could be used as council customer service centres.

Cr Aaron Brown said his campaigning during the election indicated the community did not want a new municipal precinct given the economic challenges the community now faced.

“Moving away from a $32 million municipal precinct would enable us to free up reserves for the shire as a whole while looking at a potential new library for Leongatha,” he said.

Cr Lorraine Brunt said council’s buildings were aging and defended the previous council requesting the Municipal Precinct Study to consider the future site of council offices.

That study recommended council redevelop the existing office in Smith Street, Leongatha.

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Sugar fix: from left, Alyssa Allan from Hedley, Katelyn Doran from Port Welshpool and Pretty poultry: Zoe McAich from Foster with her hen which she entered into the Foster Show on Saturday. Zoe is a big supporter of the Foster Show.

Bree Allan from Hedley indulged in fairy floss at the Foster Show on Saturday.

Show a whip cracking success NEW attractions and free children’s activities helped improve the gate takings at this year’s Foster Show on Saturday.

Some 2000 people attended the show, making it one of the most successful in recent years.

Foster and District Agricultural Society secretary Roger Nicholson said attractions like Australian whip cracking champion Emiliqua East drew a huge crowd and gave people variety.

“Emiliqua was terrific. She was one of the new attractions at the show people enjoyed,” he said.

“We got the variety right this year. There was something for everyone, with an emphasis on activities for the children.”

Mr Nicholson said the 110th show also attracted record entries in some sections, including photography, poultry and cattle.

“The food vans and the tea rooms were all up on last year and even the carnival attractions had a good show,” he said.

“The exhibit hall went well. We had good entries in the home produce and craft sections and the home

brew competition went quite well.

“It was good to have so many of the local community groups involved in the show.”

Mr Nicholson said other popular attractions included the Grand Old Factory Band and support acts, the fabulous turnout of vintage tractors and the outdoor machinery.

Foster and District Agricultural Society life member Robbie Allan opened the show, which he was “absolutely chuffed” about.

“There were plenty of horses there and Black Snake Productions captured a crowd and the free face painting for the children was good too,” Mr Nicholson said.

“The weather was like we ordered it.”

The show committee will have a review in a few weeks and start planning the 111th show in 2018.

“All in all I think we got it pretty right. The feed- Well done: Foster and District Agricultural Society president Noel Afflitto, life members back has been very good so far. It was a great show Jeanette and Robbie Allan and secretary Roger Nicholson were excited to host the 110th and I am looking forward to next year,” Mr Nich- Foster Show on Saturday. Robbie officially opened the show at midday. olson said.

Bank buddies: representing the Toora and Foster Community Bank branches of the Ben- Above, Art appreciation: from left, Ben and Sarah-Belle Joynes from Strzelecki and Claudigo Bank at the Foster Show on Saturday were branch manager Rebecca Parker and Sharon dia Casson from Foster had fun looking at the artwork and photography on display at the Demaria. The bank is a major sponsor of the show.

Foster Show on Saturday.

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Cows on show: Ethan Stuart from Smiths Gully and Megan Tung from Panton Hill were at the Foster Show on Saturday, to show the Galloways of Jan and Rob Davidson from Binginwarri.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 7

Resilient Wonthaggi fights for stadium

By Tayla Kershaw THE Wonthaggi Amateur Basketball Association is not giving up its fight for a highball facility in Wonthaggi.

President Cath Garnham said the association is still discussing what its next move will be, but rallies and petitions may come about.

“There is potential for a rally in the pipeline, but we would like to sit down with (Bass Coast Shire) council and explore our options,” she said.

Council decided not to apply for State Government funding to towards the highball facility on the grounds a detailed costing report had not been completed.

Ms Garnham said the decision had disappointed not only the association, but other sporting clubs and community groups as well.

“At the end of the day, this isn’t just about the basketball association. It is something the whole community needs and council needs to consider the big picture,” she said.

“The stadium will mean better facilities for multiple sports. Night netballers would be able to continue playing right throughout the year. There would

be disabled access so it could be used by the Bass Coast Specialist School and Rose Lodge. A lot of people in the community can’t believe it has been knocked back. It’s very frustrating.”

The decision to knock back funding came just before another amazing feat by the Coasters’ U/16 girls’ team, which played in the grand final at the Victorian Country Championships recently. They were runners-up to Bendigo.

“The girls did an amazing job playing for our town,” Ms Garnham said.

“It is a real credit to them that they are able to excel to that level with the facilities we have. It has us all asking the question: ‘How much better would they be if they had a proper stadium?’”

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said council understood the community’s disappointment, but there may still hope be for the stadium yet.

“We will continue to work with the association and other sporting groups for positive recreation outcomes,” she said.

“Councillors have varying reasons for supporting the decision. There is no reason to assume after council establishes its council plan and consequent financial plan that the situation, with respect to fund-

Unhappy Coasters: from left, Zali Anderson, Grace McRae, Gemma Thomas, Lanni Pryor, Chelsea Bowman, Sophia Hughes, Chloe Bramley, Jessy Sadler and Ella Sadler are Wonthaggi’s U/16s team that went all the way to the grand final at the Victorian Country Championships. The girls were disappointed with Bass Coast Shire Council’s decision to reject State Government funding. ing such a facility, could not be reconsidered.”

Council is working towards stabilising its finances and has committed to six annual service reviews.

These reviews will continue for 2016-17, and have been planned for 2017-18, subject to the adoption of council’s budget.

Court battle continues

By Sarah Vella A COURT case involving a Yanakie farmer accused of illegally removing native vegetation from his property has been adjourned.

Economic boost: Lindsay and Robyn Powney, proponents of the proposed Koonwarra agricultural services precinct, discuss their project with South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento (right) last Wednesday.

Ag hub gains pace AN agricultural services precinct proposed for Koonwarra is progressing, paving the way for an economic boost for the whole shire.

The precinct progressed last Wednesday when council voted to seek the approval of Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne to rezone land at 590 South Gippsland Highway and 2 Hogans Road from Farming Zone to Special Use Zone.

Site owners Lindsay and Robyn Powney said their studies have proven the site is capable of housing a large service station.

“We are still in the relative early stages in terms of the whole process. The next stage after approval and certification of planning and subdivision of the Special Use Zone into lots is when individual uses

Farmer Graeme Watkins was expected to front court on Thursday, February 16, however was granted an adjournment until May 3.

He was taken to court by South Gippsland Shire Council, after refusing to pay a fine for around $800 for illegally removing native vegetation from his property.

It is alleged vegetation was removed from two properties - Mr Watkins’ property and an adjoining property - without the required planning permit.

Both properties are covered by a significant landscape overlay (SLO) under the South Gippsland Planning Scheme.

The property owned by Mr Watkins and his wife has a good source of water, via a spring fed dam.

He said about every five years, when local farmers get low on water they are allowed access onto his property to pump water from the dam.

This happened in late 2015.

“I provided them access to my property and a drain was cleaned out, which happens every time, but it was a problem this year apparently,” he said.

Mr Watkins did not clear the vegetation himself and did not approve or arrange the works.

“I’ve done nothing wrong, so why I am being fined?” he said.

“It is nothing that hasn’t been done before. It is a man-made drain and most of the vegetation removed has grown back.”

Council’s manager regulatory services Mat-

come in to play,” Mrs Powney told The Star.

The Powneys initially proposed to rezone a total of 43.7ha but this was reduced to 11.7ha after the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning raised concerns about too much land being removed from the Farming Zone, resulting in less land available for agricultural production.

“The proposal will provide much needed economic growth to the region,” Mrs Powney said, noting jobs would be created during construction of the project and also once large scale agricultural busi- THE Poowong Pool will be closed for nesses opened on site. the last two weeks of the season followMrs Powney said the couple had been meeting ing an investigation into the causes of a with authorities since 2014 in a bid to advance the significant loss of water. project and had undertaken land capability studies.

While the pool had been losing some water for She said council no received no objections to the the whole season, the volume of water being lost project during early consultation. has escalated significantly in the last week.

South Gippsland Shire Council staff and contractors worked overnight at the pool last week to rectify the problem but they will need to undertake more extensive investigation work to isolate and previous council but so was Cr Lorraine Brunt, then rectify the issue. who claimed $1174.

Council’s community strengthening coordinator In explaining the discrepancy between his Ned Dennis said it was disappointing the pool needsum and that of other councillors, Cr Hill said the ed to be closed just before the end of the season, but full costs of council cars used by councillors were it was necessary to ensure the pool was protected from further damage. not reported.

“The greatest risk at this stage is that the water Cr McEwen said the cost of council cars used by councillors in the previous council was am- being lost compromises the integrity of the shell of ortised over three years instead of the four year the swimming pool,” he said.

“It is unfortunate the community will not have council term, thereby understating the true cost.

A council spokesperson said, “Council’s per- access to the Poowong Pool over the next two spective is that it is up to each individual coun- weeks but staff and contractors have been doing everything they can to remedy the issue. cillor to claim according to proper use of his or “We could not have kept individuals using the her own vehicle where reimbursement for council pool without risking further damage and experiencspecific use is sought.” ing high levels of water loss.

The spokesperson said council cars are calcu“Council apologises for any inconvenience this lated at a depreciation value for every three years may cause users but the closure will ensure we can compared to the traditional four years. This is be- repair the pool for future use.” ing looked into for the next quarterly report.

People who have purchased season passes for

thew Patterson said a planning permit is normally required to remove both native and non-indigenous vegetation on a property under an SLO. He said the works on the adjoining property were carried out without the property owner’s knowledge or permission and the vegetation on this property was protected by a Trust for Nature covenant.

“Under Victoria’s planning requirements a person has committed an offence if they undertake works without the necessary planning permit or own the land where the works were undertaken,” he said.

“The fine issued to the excavator driver who undertook the works on both properties was paid.

As Mr Watkins did not pay his fine, he has been prosecuted.

“As with other unpaid infringements, council’s standard practice when an infringement is not paid is to prosecute the matter.”

Mr Watkins said as far as he was aware, there had been no planning or zoning changes to his property, so that was unlikely to be the trigger for the council’s action.

“I don’t know why I have been charged this time. The council seems to pick and choose who they want to ping,” he said.

“I have gotten zero gain out of it. It was of no benefit whatsoever to me in any way. My property has plenty of water.

“Yet I am the one fronting court, which I think is grossly wrong.”

Mr Patterson said while council understands Mr Watkins may have shared the water from his dam, it does not justify removal of native vegetation which is protected by local and state planning policy.

“If people want to clear vegetation from their properties they should contact council’s planning department,” he said.

Poowong pool closed for season the Poowong Pool may use the passes at any of the Korumburra, Mirboo North and Foster outdoor pools. People will still have access to the other South Gippsland outdoor pools until the end of season on March 13, 2017.

BUILDING OR RENOVATING?

Councillor defends travel costs Cr Andrew McEwen claimed $6767 for using his private car and Cr Don Hill claimed $4075 for using his own vehicle.

Cr Aaron Brown claimed $1650 since the new council began in November and mayor Cr Ray Argento claimed $1295.

Cr McEwen said, “The cost is simply claiming for the mileage I do. I’m one of the most active councillors and I would think the people who elect you would want you to be active.”

Cr McEwen said the mileage rate paid to councillors was below that advised by the RACV and claims were signed off by CEO Tim Tamlin.

Councillors Hill and McEwen were part of the

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PAGE 8 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Firefighters train for gruelling stair climb

By Jessica Anstice MEMBERS of the Ruby Fire Brigade have begun training at Voyage Fitness in Leongatha ahead of a tough fundraiser in Melbourne this September.

stair climb in September.

“We like supporting the community and it’s our responsibility to give back to people like this,” Voyage Fitness manager Melinda Meade said.

Ruby CFA member Darren Hardacre said, “Our aim is to get fitter and to be able to climb the stairs in a reasonable time.”

Every year around 500 firefighters from across Victoria take part in the Climb for the Kids up the 28 floors of Crown Metropol Hotel wearing 25 kilograms of turnout gear and breathing apparatus.

This year, the firefighter’s Charity Fund aims to raise money for researching ‘Healthier Kids WORK on a new aged care hostel in Leand a Healthier Future’ at the Murdoch Children’s ongatha is advancing.

South Gippsland Shire Council last WednesDedication: Ruby CFA fire fighters Darren Hardacre, Michael Guest and Aaron Perks with Research Institute.

Voyage Fitness will be assisting the Ruby CFA day voted to progress the rezoning of land at 5 Voyage Fitness manager Melinda Meade before the first big training session in preparation members in training three times a week until the Boags Road – the proposed new site of Woorayl for the firefighters’ annual stair climb in the Crown Metropol in Melbourne.

Lodge in the future.

Council will ask Victorian Planning Richard Wynne to approve the rezoning of land from the Farming Zone to Low Density Residential Zone.

The current lodge in McCartin Street is landlocked and operating at maximum capacity.

Woorayl Lodge owns the 4.047ha site at Boags Road and is yet to prepare a development concept for the site.

Aged hostel plans progress

Wetlands fire POLICE are investigating a fire that was deliberately lit in the Wonthaggi wetlands on Friday, February 24 around 7pm.

The fire burnt a small amount of dried vegetation off a walking track near Poplar Street.

Wonthaggi CFA attended and quickly extinguished the fire before it took hold of nearby bush land.

Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Bass Coast Criminal Investigation Unit at Wonthaggi on 5671 4100 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.

Do you know this female?

On the hunt: police are seeking the community’s assistance to help identify the female depicted in this photo.

Police believe her identity will assist them with enquiries in relation to thefts in which a stolen credit card was used at numerous stores in Wonthaggi in January this year.

Please forward any information to Constable Harris at the Wonthaggi Police Station or phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Water caution urged SOUTH Gippslanders are being urged to continue to be mindful of their water use ahead of warm weather this week.

South Gippsland Water managing director Philippe du Plessis said, “The region has received welcome rain over the past fortnight which has slowed the drop in storage levels, however, the warm weather conditions predicted for the coming week may increase demand for water across communities, particularly coastal townships.”

Water storage levels are currently: Lance Creek 79 percent, Ruby Creek 68 percent, Coalition Creek 71 percent, Deep Creek 97 percent, Little Bass 76 percent and Battery Creek 79 percent.

Permanent Water Saving Rules are in place across the state to help all Victorians maintain a common-sense approach to water use. The rules are in force permanently and are separate from any other water restrictions South Gippsland Water may need to impose from time to time.

Rainfall was recorded at South Gippsland Water’s storages from February 18 to 24 was: Lance Creek 22mm, Ruby Creek 20mm, Coalition Creek 25mm, Deep Creek 40mm, Little Bass 36mm and Battery Creek 40mm.

“THE STAR� Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 9

Leongatha eyesore forgotten no more A LONG awaited facelift for the forgotten centre of Leongatha is closer to finally getting underway.

South Gippsland Shire Council is establishing a project reference group to advise the preparation of a master plan for the Leongatha railway land between Bair Street and the railway station.

The project is part of the Leongatha Revitalisation Project, a priority project for council, that will improve the railway yard and station areas to make them a focal point of the centre of town, building on the proposed revitalisation works of Bair and Anderson streets.

Based on previous feedback council has received from the community, the project will consider a new connection to town via the old footbridge pathway, car parking, new community spaces, rail trail access, coach stop and beautification works. The project involves council working with VicTrack, which manages the land.

Councillor representatives on the group include deputy mayor Cr Maxine Kiel, Cr Meg Edwards and Cr Don Hill.

Cr Hill said, “It’s a big project, not just for Leongatha but for the whole shire. “There will be quite a few changes in Leon-

gatha over the next few years. We have reached a turning point in Leongatha.�

Cr Jeremy Rich said the existing historic railway station could be the site of a farmers market or art precinct, and the proposal could drive growth in the town.

The Leongatha Railway Site Transformation Project Reference Group Terms of Reference was adopted at last Wednesday’s council meeting.

Following initial engagement with the project group, council’s senior strategic planning officer Chantal Lenthall anticipates broader public consultation will occur in two phases. “The first phase will raise awareness of the project and seek out new ideas,� she said. “After a draft master plan is prepared drawing from the first phase of consultation, the sec- Done deal: South Gippsland Shire Councillor Don Hill (left) signs the Code of Conduct ond phase will seek feedback on the draft master watched by CEO Tim Tamlin. plan.�

While the railway corridor to Leongatha remains set aside for consideration of future transport services, the State Government currently has no plans for the return of rail to Leongatha. “Council may pursue the opportunity to take over the lease of the railway land and become the land manager to improve the Leongatha railway site and its surrounds,� Ms Lenthall said.

Councillors agree to behave

Desal will secure local water, says government SOUTH Gippsland towns will receive greater water security once the desalination plant is operational, the State Government has declared.

The government rejected criticism from the Opposition the plant was wasteful.

A government spokesperson said, “The 50 gigalitre water order from the desalination plant provides extra security for Melbourne, and the regional towns and communities connected to the water grid. “These communities will include South Gippsland towns

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which have faced severe water restrictions in recent years. It will also provide security for South Gippsland businesses and jobs. “We will provide $30 million to connect these towns Loch, Nyora, Korumburra and Poowong - to the grid and the added security of the desalination plant.�

Victorian Shadow Minister for Water Peter Walsh said Melbourne’s storages were nearly 70 percent full, yet the government still hopes to pump in 50GL from the desal plant. “It won’t be long before autumn and winter rains start

filling the dams again, so Labor should forget the water order and focus on getting a refund for customers instead,� he said.

The Star has received a report of diesel generators being moved on to the desal plant site to power the water factory if electricity is not restored soon, after a power cable was damaged Some residents are concerned about the impact of diesel fumes blowing over Wonthaggi.

The Star was unable to obtain a comment from plant operators, AquaSure, before going to press.

SOUTH Gippsland Shire councillors can now get on with the job of governing after signing a code of conduct they all agreed on, last Wednesday.

Council held yet another meeting to discuss the code, after points raised in the code the previous week were deemed unclear.

Council will bear the costs incurred should it seek a review by the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) of a decision made by a Councillor Code of Conduct investigating a complaint against a councillor. That is unless VCAT otherwise orders. “But if a councillor wants to appeal that decision, we have made it clear the councillor will

pay for his own legal representation,� Cr Lorraine Brunt said.

Such panel hearings involving the previous council cost council $39,670.

Cr Don Hill wanted to rescind the code adopted by council the previous week but Cr Brunt said doing so would mean council would have to wait three months before discussing the matter and that would be too late for meeting the deadline for signing the code – four months after the council election.

Cr Hill said no councillor should be taken to a panel hearing without a “very valid reason�.

All councillors voted for the code.

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PAGE 10 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

COLUMN 7

col7@thestar.com.au

Sarah Vella

Tayla Kershaw

Balloons harm wildlife

PEOPLE are being urged to blow bubbles instead of balloons at events.

New leaders: from left, Welshpool and District Primary School students Sofie Platt and Bree Allan are this year’s school captains while Elsa Gallagher and Alyssa Allan are the 2017 junior school council leaders. The leaders were presented with their badges at a special assembly held at the school on Monday, February 20. The leaders’ parents were given the job of pinning on their badges.

The new campaign, launched at Melbourne Zoo last Wednesday, highlights the danger balloons pose to Australia’s marine wildlife, especially seabirds.

A 2016 CSIRO study identified balloons among the top three most harmful pollutants threatening marine wildlife, along with plastic bags and bottles.

The campaign was launched by Zoos Victoria and Phillip Island Nature Parks Zoos Victoria CEO Dr Jenny Gray said balloons used at outdoor events can accidentally make their way into oceans.

“Every day balloons are released or escape at outdoor events because people don’t realise this is creating a very real threat to wildlife,” she said.

Closer to home, Phillip Island Nature Parks researchers have also identified balloons and their attachments as a major risk to Victoria’s marine wildlife.

Phillip Island Nature Parks research manager Dr Peter Dann said, “There has been a dramatic increase in the incidence of balloons and their attachments appearing on our beaches, with the potential to cause significant harm to Victoria’s marine wildlife.

“During our regular research visits to Seal Rocks, we have had to rescue seals that have become entangled in balloon ribbons which can cause lasting damage.”

For more information visit www.penguins.org.au/balloons

FANCY a good, cheap book to read? Then head along to the Friends of Leongatha LiLiving history: the Jeetho Hall has been renovated and is now a beautiful venue for wed- brary’s Book Sale this Thursdings and special occasions. day and Friday, March 2 and 3 at St Peter’s Anglican Church Hall, Leongatha. Starting at 10am both days and finishing at 4pm.

You will find children’s THE Jeetho community is celebratThere will also be an open afternoon from ing the 125th anniversary of its historic 1.30pm at the Jeetho Hall, with photos and the books at five for $1 and adult books from 50 cents. hall on Saturday, March 4 at 11am. The booklet Reflections of Jeetho to purchase.

Please RSVP by February 25 for catering EPILEPSY Action event will be followed by lunch with all to contact@jeethohall.com.au or call 0400 592 Australia (EAA) research provided. BYO drinks.

248. shows awareness of epilepsy

Celebrate historic hall Pearly Mates

Star of show ACTRESS Lise Rodgers visited the Leongatha library last Wednesday to perform a show based on the letters of Jane Austen and her novel Emma.

The turnout was great with every seat in the room used. Ms Rodgers will be back again to perform in Leongatha.

is low. Throughout March, communities around the world are dedicated to raising awareness of epilepsy, culminating in Purple Day on March 26.

To get involved, light up a landmark with the colour purple, host an event, or buy merchandise (t-shirts, hats, key rings, pens, wristbands) by visiting EAA’s online shop.

To donate, phone 1300 37 45 37 or visit www.epilepsy. org.au to learn more about

Toilet opens in Loch PEA2420005

PET CREMATIONS

Leave your pet in the care of a local business when that sad day arrives

Amazing costumes: librarian Michael Hogan with actress Lise Rodgers after her performance of Emma at the Leongatha library last Wednesday.

LOCH’S Sunnyside Park has a toilet after 10 years of work by the community.

Pearly Mates is a family owned business that has been operating in South Gippsland for five years.

We offer affordable rates and a caring service.

Phone 0488 373 429 or visit www.pearlymates.com.au

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Community effort: Lorraine Knox of Loch Community Development Association is urging the public to support the town’s new public toilet at Sunnyside Park.

A lovely crowd joined Loch Community Development Association (LCDA) members on Saturday, February 18 for the opening.

Project manager and president of the LCDA Keith Tonkin thanked those who drove the project over many years, through several committees of the LCDA. South Gippsland Shire Cr Lorraine Brunt congratulated the community on its efforts.

Lorraine Knox gave special thanks to Mr Tonkin who came on board with the skills to make it happen. She also reminded the community to take ownership, as the toilet was funded by the community and is now owned by locals.

“We will need to make sure they stay clean and well cared for,” she said.

Mrs Knox has been a constant “squeaky wheel” at South Gippsland Shire Council with many letters, phone calls, petitions, presentations to convince council that Loch’s Sunnyside Park was in urgent need of a toilet.

The LCDA was in a unique position in that it was able to afford to build a toilet and all that was needed was council’s approval to put the toilet on council land.

Mrs Knox’s argument had always been that if a community can be proactive enough to fund its own projects then it should be encouraged to do so under council guidelines.

After the ribbon cutting ceremony, a barbecue was enjoyed by all.

Purple Day and be inspired to support Australian’s living with epilepsy.

VOLUNTEERS are needed for 2017 Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, March 5.

Now is the time to volunteer for your local Clean Up sites, and it’s still not too late to find those local rubbish hotspots that need attention and register your own site for 2017 Clean Up Australia Day. Chairman and Founder of Clean Up Australia, Ian Kiernan AO, is calling on all Australians to don their gloves and pick up their rubbish bags to clean up their local area this Sunday to get rid of rubbish on streets and beaches, in parks, bushland and waterways.

Registrations for 2017 Clean Up sites are now open.

To register go to: www. cleanupaustraliaday.org.au.

THE Leongatha RSL ladies night will be held on Wednesday, March 1 at 7pm.

All funds raised from the night go towards Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. Entry will be $15 which includes a complimentary drink and supper. Local party planners will be in attendance.

RSVP to Ricky on 5662 2012 for catering purposes.

AN end of season party will be held at Mirboo North pool, with eats and beats on Saturday, March 11 from 12pm to 7pm.

For all enquires contact Mary on 56681643.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 11

Show ‘n’ Shine shapes up LEONGATHA is set in the beautiful and picturesque hills of South Gippsland, making an ideal outing destination for motoring enthusiasts and clubs.

With great coffee, good food and children’s activities, everyone will be entertained by Australia’s best motor show commentator, Pinky at the Leongatha Show ‘n’ Shine and Swap Meet market this Sunday, March 5.

The judges will have a busy day with 10 categories to be judged. Each category winner receives a trophy.

Pre registration for the event is not necessary;

Council reviews rural land NEW controls to manage the use of rural land in Bass Coast Shire now form part of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme.

simply register on the day.

The Leongatha Rotary Club will be holding the annual event, along with craft and produce from 9am to 1.30pm at the Leongatha velodrome, and Rotarians are welcome all to come along.

The swap meet begins at 6am.

For a glorious range of vintage and custom cars, a wonderful atmosphere filled with families, tourists and car enthusiasts, the Show ‘n’ Shine event is the place to be.

If you own something you’re proud of, you are more than welcome to put it on display at the event.

Last year: the numbers were up last year at the annual Show ‘n’ Shine event and the Rotary “Leongatha’s wonderful asset, the velodrome, is where the event will be held. It is such a lovely Club of Leongatha is hoping for a successful event this year. setting,” Rotary Club of Leongatha member John O’Connor said.

Food carts will be available on the day, as well as market vendors who will also be offering a wide range of goods, both automotive and otherwise.

“The show has been growing strength to strength, one year to another and has become one of the major events in Leongatha,” Mr O’Connor said.

“We’ve developed a reputation and built a trust with motoring public.

“This year’s event is shaping up great and we expect it to be a hugely successful event.”

Entry for adults is $6 and families are $15.

Amendment C140, which implements the Bass Coast Rural Land Use Strategy 2014, was recently approved by the Minister for Planning Richard Wynne, completing what has been a priority project for council since 2010.

The Rural Land Use Strategy was adopted Preview: the Traralgon Harley Davidson stand by council in August 2013 and mayor Cr Pame- will be at the Show ‘n’ Shine event on Sunday, la Rothfield said the amendment affects all land March 5 at the Leongatha velodrome. zoned farming and rural activity across the shire.

“It sets out the long term vision for the shire’s rural areas and aims to protect the opportunity for agriculture and rural landscapes, maintain green breaks between towns and provide for rural tourism,” she said.

“The strategy recommended a number of changes to the planning scheme to provide strong policy direction, guide decision making and introduce new zoning and overlay provisions to support agriculture, encourage rural tourism and protect rural environmental assets.”

For more information on the Rural Land Use Strategy, please contact council’s strategic planning team on 1300 226 278 or 03 5671 2211.

Art needs a home THE Old Wonthaggi Post Office and the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre are being investigated as possible future homes for a growing art collection.

Bass Coast Shire Council will consider funding a masterplan to determine if either venue could be converted into a gallery to house works such as the Robert Smith Collection, valued at in excess $1 million.

The masterplan will be considered as part of the 2017-18 budget process.

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said it was important for the Robert Smith Collection to be housed in a suitable space so it could maintain its integrity and condition – a requirement of the perpetuity loan of the art and book collection.

“The collection includes 606 works of art, ranging from the mid-19th century goldfield inspired commentaries of ST Gill, which were the subject of a recent book and major exhibition at the State Library of Victoria, to a significant collection of mid-20th century works by the respected social realist artist, Noel Counihan,” she said.

“To house such a rare and incredible art collection right here in Bass Coast is an honour and we want to give the collection the respect it deserves with a suitable home.”

Council also currently exhibits its own art collection of more than 100 works mostly sourced from local artists from the Your Art Collection Awards, within council owned buildings around the shire.

Appropriate sites would need to have specific hanging and exhibition requirements, climate control, security, access, amenities and lighting plans developed.

Cr Rothfield said with considerable upgrades, both facilities could become wonderful exhibition spaces.

“Both the old post office and the community arts centre will require a number of significant upgrades and consideration of the future management and curation of potential galleries, to ensure the Bass Coast community has the opportunity to access and enjoy the arts,” she said.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

OPINIONS

Businesses must open on weekends

ON the weekend of February 18 and 19, 2017, whilst walking around our central business area, I was amazed at the number of coffee shops not open.

Leongatha has many coffee shops. I think it is around 14 at the moment.

When walking on Saturday, the time would have been around 1pm to 2pm, and on Sunday between 11am and 1pm.

On Saturday, February 18, Meeniyan hosted the first Garlic Festival to be held in Victoria. I would guess a large number of visitors would have had to travel through Leongatha at least in one direction.

I asked myself why weren’t some of these coffee shops open to take advantage of this increase in tourists driving through our town, looking at our beautiful countryside.

They couldn’t all be catered for in Meeniyan at the one time. Later around 4.30pm that same weekend, we drove through Koonwarra.

There were cars everywhere. The coffee shops and related businesses were doing a roaring trade.

I believe this could be the real reason Leongatha is a dying town.

I feel the business operators are not prepared to take a punt and offer real service to those who drive through our town. This event in Meeniyan, we now learn, brought into our area no less than 5000 people.

It appears to me the businesses in Bair Street want us to fill their shops for them.

But if you don’t open your doors, you can’t get customers inside. They can’t sample your food, drink your coffee and go away feeling pleased they had taken the trouble to stop in our little town. They

might just spread a good word and bring you more customers.

With so many coffee shops in town, they could even use a roster system similar to the one the local chemist shops use.

I don’t believe the planned so called ‘Beautification of Bair Street’ will work if the shops are not prepared to open for business. They can’t all blame the penalty rates.

Ultimately I feel it is pure lack of service provided that keeps people away from our town. If you serve top quality food, great coffee and have brilliant service, you won’t be able to keep them away.

Just a thought.

Now the Fair Work Commission has ruled Sunday penalty rates will be reduced for fast-food, hospitality, and retail workers, there’s no excuse now shop owners. Let’s get motivated and make your business prosper.

Rhonda Debenham, Leongatha.

Congratulations mayor, councillors THE ratepayers of Bass Coast Shire deserve better reports than the one that was provided to councillors regarding the closure of the Inverloch Transfer Station that was issued last August 2016. It was given to the previous council to consider.

It was by an anonymous author who stated misleading facts, halftruths and was unsubstantiated with supporting facts.

For the highly paid professional employees of this shire not to put their name on their reports is not good enough. This report was biased and was geared to support a minority of people who had vested interests in closing this community asset.

When this report was reviewed by the current councillors, who were made aware of the full facts

Letters to the Editor

in a further review, they came to a unanimous decision to keep this community asset open.

This transfer station has operated successfully for 30 years and will be needed even more for a long time into the future as the population of Inverloch grows.

I am grateful the new team of councillors has strong integrity and common sense.

Glenn Cant, Inverloch.

Desal waste WE’RE two weeks away from summer’s end with water storages near 70 percent full, yet Premier Daniel Andrews still hopes to pump in 50GL from his faulty desal plant.

Melbourne’s storages are at a healthy 68.1 percent, but Daniel Andrews is determined to dump his 50GL desal water in just before the winter filling season starts.

At Parliament’s Budget Outlook hearing on Tuesday, February 14, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) confirmed it would take up to four months to deliver the desal order.

It won’t be long before autumn and winter rains start filling the dams again, so Labor should forget the water order and focus on getting a refund for customers instead.

DELWP also confirmed that last year Melburnians paid more than $600 million in “service fees” for a desal plant that doesn’t work.

Melburnians didn’t want a $24 billion desal plant and they definitely didn’t need a $27 million water order this year, but Daniel Andrews put politics ahead of people and households continue to foot the bill.

Brian Paynter MP, Bass MLA.

Gas plea DEAR Victorian Legislative Council members, We are writing to ask you to support the Resources Legislation Amendment (Fracking Ban) Bill 2016 in entirety. This Bill includes a moratorium on onshore conventional gas exploration until June 30, 2020.

We understand Daniel Young of the Fishers and Shooters Party and James Purcell of the Jobs First Party intend to each introduce an amendment that will exclude this moratorium. This moratorium is an essential part of the Bill that should be approved in its entirety.

The moratorium on onshore conventional gas exploration was first introduced the Victorian Liberals and Nationals. This moratorium remains in place under the existing Bill but would be lifted if this amendment is supported.

We hope this support continues when the Bill comes before you. There would be widespread disappointment in our parliamentary representatives if this moratorium was lifted prematurely.

Seismic studies by Earth Resources have determined that no commercial supplies of onshore conventional gas exist in Victoria and we believe members of parliament have been briefed to this effect.

We are deeply concerned by the response to the fracking ban legislation by some sectors of the fossil fuel industry. Of greater disappointment is that some politicians are repeating the misinformation promulgated by the industry.

They argue there is a gas shortage and that we should “source new (onshore) ongoing conventional natural gas supplies” as Daniel Young was quoted in The Weekly

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

Times to redress this. The fact is there is no gas shortage in Victoria. Bass Strait has 30 years of supply according to Peter Ryan.

The recent price fluctuations and power cuts are not due to lack of capacity but to problems with managing the supply.

Some businesses are stating they cannot secure long term gas contracts or that the cost of gas will rise dramatically. This is a problem with the way the gas market is operating, not with gas supplies.

Gas retailers have made a financial decision to prioritise supply to overseas customers rather than domestic customers. This has meant that domestic gas supply is becoming more expensive to maintain parity with overseas prices.

Onshore gas exploration will not resolve this problem. However regulation to ensure the security of domestic supplies from existing gas resources is urgently needed. This would attract more businesses and residents as Victoria’s energy supplies would be assured.

Deborah O’Connor and Gayle Margaret, for Coal and CSG Free Mirboo North.

Caravan parks costing too much REGARDING the Shire of South Gippsland caravan park saga, we note the shire council CEO has tried to deflect from the woeful business practices his administration has practiced in relation to these parks by suggesting tourists would not stay in the parks and hence council needed to be the business operators.

To most ratepayers this is an affront by the CEO when he is spending our money. To me it seems the caravan parks operated and generated activity in the shire without the

ratepayers needing to spend a vast sum on their operations.

I have acknowledged council may have a role to play in managing these crown land sites. However I believe these parks can be suitably controlled by appropriate mechanisms in a business lease.

At least with a lease the community has a transparent figure that we can see the caravan parks contribute to the budget.

Are ratepayers are aware, the council budget has listed the following capital expenditure for the caravan parks over the next 10 years as follows: • Yanakie Caravan Park – total, $1,957,590; and • Welshpool Caravan Park – total, $636,144 plus a toilet block of $376,419 making a total of $1,012,563.

Along with capital expenditure on the Waratah Bay Park, a total of more than $3.3 million over the next 10 years or around $165 per rate assessment is being considered.

The above are capital expenditures and not operating expenditures. If they are anything like the current levels of around $1 million per annum, these parks are costing the ratepayers a fortune.

If we allow the current wage bill to grow like the growth in the senior officers at the council of over 5.5 percent per annum over the past 10 years, then these caravan parks will cost us a fortune into the future.

These figures do not include the costs on the council bureaucracy to manage this business venture using our money.

I call on the councillors in this budget process to cease this business operation and put the caravan parks out for suitable leasing arrangements.

Lindsay Love, Leongatha.

VOXPOP! VOX After Leongatha Secondary College student Chloe Wylie was recently selected to perform in the Top Class music concert, The Star asked college music students, “What is it that you love about music?”

E D I T O R I A L Bureaucracy gone mad IT’S been a case of bending the facts to suit one’s cause in the news in South Gippsland in the past week.

Firstly, a report from South Gippsland Shire Council continued to fuel the confusion in the public and around the council table about the true cost of the proposed municipal precinct that was last week shelved by council in its current form.

The new council came out with a clear decision just months after being elected with a mandate by the people of South Gippsland: this community could not afford the expensive project.

Still, the report to council said the total cost of the proposed project in its current format was $24.72 million, yet Cr Don Hill continued to say the true cost was $32 million.

Council CEO Tim Tamlin said council had modelled interest costs of $7.64 million but that was not included in the table of costs in the council meeting agenda that showed how the $24.72 million was arrived at.

As Cr Hill has always said, the true cost of the project needed to include interest, so why was this not spelled out in the report?

Why not just come out with the true costs and save all the toing and fro-ing at council meetings and in the public arena, and claims of scaremongering, etc?

The Star also this week reports of how Inverloch Primary School was left waiting for the Department of Education and Training to inspect part of the school yard contaminated with asbestos, more than two months after the asbestos was found.

Following further probing by The Star, the department is suddenly on site and it seems the matter is finally receiving the attention it warrants.

While our governments do great things for the community, there are still many occasions when the public deserves better.

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.

“That it’s groovy.”

Lester Berryman, Leongatha.

“That you can never run out of music to learn and play.”

Eleanor Scott, Meeniyan.

“Music is something that everyone can understand and appreciate no matter who they are, where they come from or what language they speak.”

Sarah Bouquet, Leongatha.

“I like playing music because it gives me the opportunity to share the beauty of classical music with others.”

Chloe Wylie, Leongatha.

Councillor finally gets his road SOUTH Gippsland Shire Councillor Don Hill will have access to his farming block at Mirboo North, despite debate over his bid for council to open an unmade and unused government road.

He sought 211m of the road to be opened to the south off Giles Street.

Cr Andrew McEwen said any landowner had a right to have access to their property by requesting road access.

“This is a planning matter. If we reject this, the applicant would have a right to go to VCAT (Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal),” he said.

Deputy mayor Cr Maxine Kiel

• South Gippsland Shire Councillor Don Hill. said the road would join the road at “the worst intersection in Mirboo North” – Giles Street and Grand Ridge Road East - where a convex mirror already exists to allow motor-

ists to see oncoming traffic.

She said the road into the property is extremely steep, native vegetation would have to be removed and neighbours would be looking at “an eight metre wall of dirt”.

She was concerned vegetation around the creek at the bottom of the hill within the property could be destroyed.

Cr Meg Edwards said the road would result in neighbours being disrupted by having farming machinery “going straight into the centre of Mirboo North” and suggested a cheaper way of gaining access would be by Cr Hill buying a neighbouring residential property.

The road opening was passed with the votes of councillors Lorraine Brunt, Aaron Brown, Jeremy Rich, Alyson Skinner and Andrew McEwen.

Councillors Maxine Kiel, mayor Ray Argento and Meg Edwards were against. Cr Hill was absent from debate due having a conflict of interest.

Access to the property was previously gained through vacant land on Giles Street that will not be available in the future.

Cr Hill will have to provide engineering design plans, enter into a Section 173 (s.173) Agreement and maintain the opened road in accordance with standards agreed and contained in the agreement.

A planning permit will also be required to remove tree ferns and any other indigenous vegetation within the unused road reserve, as well as a Works on Waterways Permit from the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 13

Council is Here to Serve

At Council, we actively work with our residents to ensure that decisions are made in line with community expectations while meeting Council’s overall direction. Council’s role is to provide leadership for the good governance of the Shire and our local communities. Upon being elected our Councillors are vested with the responsibility of making the best decisions for the majority of the community members of the South Gippsland Shire, both now and into the future.

To best fulfil that responsibility Council recognises the importance of engaging the community in our work to ensure the best approach is taken for all decisions and actions. To that end Council has facilitated 51 community meetings and engagement opportunities over the last 18 months to encourage the involvement of community members in discussions and decisions.

To achieve our objective of being a prosperous shire, we continue to raise awareness of local and regional issues with State and Federal bodies.

Extensive work was conducted for our Priority Projects for 2016 including the: •

South Gippsland Highway Black Spur Re-alignment at Koonwarra.

•

Long Jetty rehabilitation at Port Welshpool.

•

Northern Towns Connection project to secure a potable water supply to Korumburra and surrounds.

By working alongside our residents Council has been able to plan for community-influenced projects including the Leongatha, Foster and Korumburra Streetscapes. With the introduction of rate capping, Council’s engagement with the community assisted in providing suggestions on the priorities for future budgets and there was no reductions in service levels.

We will continue to work with the business community to support existing businesses, diversify employment opportunities and attract new businesses, we will raise the awareness of local and regional issues with State and Federal decision makers and we will improve the sustainability of the local and regional environment.

For a summary of Council’s services for the community visit our Facebook page: facebook.com/southgippslandshirecouncil

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

AN UPDATE FROM AQUASURE

AquaSure is preparing the installation of a temporary, contingency power solution to the Victorian Desalination Project plant site to enable water production to commence.

As you know we have a contractual obligation to produce and deliver 50 GL of desalinated water by 30 June 2017.

This temporary solution would only be used in the event that repairs to Switchgear equipment that links the underground cable to the desalination plant take longer than currently planned. It would only operate under licence with the permission of the EPA. As you may recall this equipment was damaged during the process to re-energise the electricity supply during December 2016 after completion of preventative maintenance works undertaken on the underground cable.

Importantly, the desalination plant itself was not damaged.

The temporary power supply comprises 30 x 1MW diesel generators. If required to be used it would operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Some night time lighting of the area would be needed, but will be designed to the same specifications as the current plant site lighting, to mitigate light spill beyond the plant site.

www.aquasure.com.au

If switched on, this will enable one of the plant’s three production streams to commence production of water while the repair program is completed.

Should the temporary power source be required to be operated, it will be switched off as soon as the permanent power source is reinstated.

Fuel supplies would need to be delivered to, and stored on site. If required, up to four fuel trucks would deliver daily while the system is in operation.

Whilst we don’t expect to have to use the generators, should they be required we anticipate it would be for less than 1 month.

Temporary power solutions of this type are not uncommon. Aggreko, one of the world’s largest suppliers of alternative power services, has been contracted to supply and manage this temporary power solution. They recently operated a 108MW solution for Hydro Tasmania during their 2016 power shortage, and will be powering up all 18 venues for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in 2018.

We acknowledge there may be impacts from this operation beyond the plant site boundary and have been working hard with Aggreko and other advisors to minimise these potential impacts. It is likely that notwithstanding those efforts a small number of immediate neighbours will notice increased noise levels. AquaSure is liaising with these neighbours to put in place appropriate mitigation measures.

Depending on the finalisation of repairs to the switchgear, it may never actually be used.

Any power used by the plant, howsoever generated, will be 100% offset by the purchase and surrender of renewable energy certificates.

The total cost of the contingency solution will be met by Aquasure.

Any community queries can be directed to contactus@aquasure.com.au or the community contact line: 1800 811 214

Matt Brassington CEO, AquaSure

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 15

Disability fails to slow Darren LIVING with visual impairment is no barrier for Darren Bone when it comes to getting many jobs done.

The icon of Leongatha was last Wednesday presented with South Gippsland Shire Council’s Achievement Award for a Person with a Disability.

Mr Bone was unable to attend this year’s South Gippsland Australia Day awards so council acknowledged his contribution to the community at the council meeting.

“This is an absolute honour to receive this award,” he said.

Mr Bone is a longstanding member and current chair of council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, where he represents people with disability in various consultations, including the Long Street redevelopment, Reimagining Bair Street, council’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing plan review and previous Australia

Day nominations.

“He has also been involved in a number of volunteer roles including the Leongatha Football Club and education programs related to disability with students from Monash University’s School of Rural Health,” Cr Argento said.

Mr Bone was nominated for the award by Mandy Truscio, his employer at Serafinos Pizza in Leongatha, because of his volunteer work and his approach to being open and honest about his disability and life.

Mr Bone thanked Mandy and Fred Truscio for their support.

“Mandy and Fred have been incredible employers.

To their credit, they gave me a chance,” he said.

Cr Argento said he had known Mr Bone since he was 15 when the youngsters would talk to each other over CB radios.

Dedicated to community: Darren Bone received South Gippsland Shire Council’s Achievement Award for a Person with a Disability from mayor Cr Ray Argento last Wednesday.

Council inspired by NZ’s local focus INVOLVING the community in local government decision making is the key to successful local government, South Gippsland Shire Council heard recently.

David Hammond spoke of his successful term as chief executive officer of Thames-Coromandel District Council in New Zealand’s North Island, in which he drove an innovative way of governance.

He helped the council transform its reputation by inviting local people to make decisions about local issues and services by reintroducing community boards.

“The boards represent several urban areas and rural communities and produce one plan over the whole area.

They engage with all the community organisations and pick from amongst the large number those projects they want to champion and believe are priority,” he said.

“The community board plan is the one plan which goes to council budget consideration.”

Board chairs were invited to council meetings and confidential workshops, and minor projects were dealt with a local level instead of clogging the council table.

Community boards, together with council, designed a new approach to service delivery.

“They decided that 14 services like libraries, parks, halls, harbours, toilets and cemeteries would be returned to the community under community boards with full responsibilities in planning, funding, asset management,

the right to set fees and charges, and finding alternative funding methods,” Mr Hammond said.

As a result, rates were reduced, council made more decisions and community confidence in council rose by 18 percent.

The council made the changes following its 2010 election when the community voted out all elected members except one.

“Stunning results in council performance were achieved by getting the right model for the community,” Mr Hammond said.

“After restructuring, council had the lowest operating cost per property of any local authority in the region.”

The council removed $43 million from 10 year capital budgets without degrading assets or reducing levels of service.

“Citizens are no longer just ratepayers or consumers of services but share the role in local governing and decision making,” Mr Hammond said.

He said every shire has great examples of a council working with its community.

“What I speak about is how to move from just having great examples to this being the everyday normal for a council and its people,” he said.

“In 2017 communities are expecting less local government over them and more local governance, meaning making decisions over services and issues at the

community level by the people affected.”

Mayor Cr Ray Argento said council was already running along similar lines to some aspects of Mr Hammond’s model.

“His presentation enabled councillors to broaden their thinking on a range of matters and ensured we are kept abreast of what is occurring in other areas,” he said.

International ideas: David Hammond (second from left), a former chief executive officer of a council in New Zealand, is welcomed to Leongatha recently by South Gippsland Shire councillors, from left, Cr Andrew McEwen, Cr Don Hill and Cr Jeremy Rich.

South Gippsland Shire briefs

Festivals praised COUNCILLORS commended local events that attracted thousands of visitors to South Gippsland recently.

Cr Andrew McEwen praised the Meeniyan Garlic Festival while deputy mayor Cr Maxine Kiel acknowledged the success of the Mirboo North Italian Festa.

Land may be sold SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has started statutory procedures to remove the road status from an unused portion of road reserve in Fish Creek.

Council intend to sell the land to the adjoining landowner. Written submissions are invited from the public.

Council received a request from the landowner to buy part of the unused road reserve being part of Williamson Street, to develop the land with a dwelling and shed.

The road is now on council’s Public Road Register and is not required as a future road.

Council will consider any submissions before determining an outcome and will notify nearby landowners.

Local voice CR AARON Brown has been named Gippsland committee member on the regional lobby, Rural Councils Victoria.

He is hoping South Gippsland will benefit from discussions around the preparation of the draft plan for the Stronger Rural Councils initiative.

Transport focus CR JEREMY Rich has been named a director on the regional transport lobby group, South East Australian Transport Strategy.

He told council the Federal Government now recognises tourism within the concept of freight, given it entails the movement of people.

New road names in Foster SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council will call for community comment on two proposed new road names in Foster.

The first is off Elphicks Road with the proposed name of Stapleton Road.

The other road is off Devlin Street with the proposed name of Hendras Lane.

The first road off Elphicks Road was created as part of a road opening to access properties along this road reserve and has been added to council’s Public Road Register. Naming the road will allow these properties to have an official address.

The road off Devlin Street is identified on council’s Public Road Register as access to the Foster Bowling Club.

Council’s director sustainable communities and infrastructure, Anthony Seasbrook, said naming the roads was essential in identifying locations for emergency services, the delivery of goods and services, and providing access to properties.

Stapleton Road is in recognition of Private Stapleton who passed away in Gallipoli in 1916 and had been the minister of the Methodist Church in Foster.

Hendras Lane is in recognition of the Hendra family that has been in

Foster since the early 1900s, owning property from the highway through to the Lower Franklin Road.

Letters will be sent to adjoining property owners inviting written submissions.

Leongatha’s new road SADIES Way is the proposed name of a new road in Leongatha.

The road was previously a government road reserve in Mitchell Rise Estate, off Nerrena Road, and was required to allow access from Tilly Court to Rayson Drive.

South Gippsland Shire Council also proposes to close the east/west leg of Tilly Court to remove the through traffic function of the court from the new subdivision to McDonald Street, except for pedestrian and cycle access.

This will be done by placing a barrier to close the road about 110m east of the intersection of Louise Simon Court.

Council will call for submissions.

If no submissions are received, the road declaration, closure and opening will be published in the Victorian Government Gazette.

The developers suggested the name Sadies Way to council in recognition of Sadie Foley, the daughter of Percy Luxford. He worked as a lines foreman for the PMG throughout Gippsland before moving to Leongatha and was a veteran of the Anzac landing in 1915.

Another road to be built off Tilly Court is to be known as Luxford Lane.

Appointment of an Aboriginal Victorian as a Commissioner of the Victorian Environmental Water Holder The Victorian Government is seeking a suitably skilled Aboriginal Victorian to contribute their experience and knowledge to improving the environmental health of rivers, wetlands and floodplains by registering an expression of interest for the role of Commissioner with the Victorian Environmental Water Holder (VEWH).

The VEWH is an independent statutory authority responsible for holding and managing Victoria’s environmental water entitlements (the Water Holdings). The responsibilities of the VEWH include: • making decisions on the most effective use of the Water Holdings, including use, trade and carryover • liaising with other water holders to ensure coordinated use of all sources of environmental water • authorising waterway managers to implement watering decisions • commissioning targeted projects to demonstrate ecological outcomes of environmental watering at key sites • publicly communicating environmental watering decisions and outcomes.

Applicants must be a Victorian resident with Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage and have knowledge of or experience in one or more of the following: • environmental management • sustainable water management

Mirboo North to expand

• economics

LAND at Mirboo North is closer to being rezoned to allow residential development.

The land at 943 and 945 Berrys Creek Road is proposed to be rezoned from Low Density Residential to General Residential Zone One, under an amendment C103 to the South Gippsland Planning Scheme.

Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne will be asked to approve the amendment that will rezone 4.2ha and accommodate up to 35 homes.

Deputy mayor Cr Maxine Kiel said the developer would contribute money towards footpaths.

• public administration Understanding Aboriginal traditional ecological knowledge and values associated with environmental water will also be highly regarded.

Applicants are required to apply online. To apply and for more information, go to: www.delwp.vic.gov.au/onboard or www.getonboard.vic.gov.au.

Applications close: midday Monday 10 April 2017. www.delwp.vic.gov.au Customer Service Centre 136 186

ZO780082

Building bonanza THE value of approved building work in South Gippsland Shire for October to December 2016 rose 27.1 percent compared to the same quarter last year, with a total value of $25.8 million.

Residential construction was valued at $15.2 million, up 9.4 percent compared to the corresponding quarter in 2015.

Significant projects approved during the quarter included an Applied Learning Hub at Korumburra Secondary College ($5 million), an Integrated Primary Care Centre at Leongatha Hospital ($4.6 million) and a new warehouse building in Korumburra ($350,000).

Cr Lorraine Brunt noted the Yanakie Caravan Park recorded its highest quarterly revenue of $187,000 since council took over the part and said by the end of this year, revenue should return to pre-council management figures.

Many annuals left the park when council took over due to higher fees and uncompliant vans, thereby reducing the park’s income.

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Bill to protect CFA volunteers THE State Coalition has introduced a bill in the Legislative Council to protect CFA volunteers.

Stepping up: Bass Coast Shire Council recognised its 2017 Bass Coast Young Leaders at an awards ceremony recently.

Bass Coast young leaders announced YOUNG leaders were recognised by Bass Coast Shire Council at an award ceremony at Inverloch’s RACV Resort last Tuesday, February 21.

Schools select two young leaders from Grade 6 and Year 11 for the awards.

Now in its 10th year, the awards added a Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) category this year to recognise leaders in alternative settings.

Jayde Albery-Caird, Molly Reggardo and Chloe Gray are the three students selected to represent the first Bass Coast young leaders in this category.

Before receiving their awards at the official ceremony, the students were interviewed and asked who they look up to as a leader in their community.

While there was a strong focus on community leaders such as parents, ballet teachers and coaches, the responses also included international leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai and Barack Obama.

Participants were also involved in a leadership workshop and lunch with mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield and deputy mayor Cr Brett Tessari.

The workshop encouraged the students to develop their leadership skills and provided a networking opportunity.

Cr Rothfield said, “These young leaders are incredibly talented, passionate and humble. It was amazing to hear their stories and what they are already achieving at such a young age.”

The 2017 young leaders are: Luke Chetcuti and Tullen Lee (Bass Coast Specialist School), Hailey Bedford and

George Blum (Bass Valley Primary School), Ella Macphee and Finn Cashman (Newhaven College – primary), Bella Schmidt and Blake Green (Newhaven Primary School), Tess Papas and Jordi Vanderkolk (San Remo Primary School), Abbey Dwyer and Sebastian Toomey (Inverloch Kongwak Primary School), Nicola Hales and Saher Biggs (Wonthaggi North Primary School), Eve Leversha and Ania Todd (Wonthaggi Primary School), Ellie Pearce and Harrison Smith (Newhaven College – secondary), Jack Mendes and Jewel Massey-Chase (Wonthaggi Secondary College), Chloe Gray (Wonthaggi Secondary College VCAL), Jayde Albery-Caird (Chisholm TAFE) and Molly Reggardo (Wonthaggi Secondary College – community (Satellite) VCAL).

The Liberal Nationals moved an amendment to the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 that aims to safeguard the rights of volunteers.

It aims to counter clauses in the proposed workplace agreement between the State Government and CFA that would hand control of the CFA to the United Firefighters’ Union.

Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath, a member of the upper house Planning and Environment Committee conducting the Inquiry into Fire Season Preparedness, has heard from volunteers across Victoria who are calling for parts of the State Government’s proposed new workplace agreement to be scrapped.

“The Liberal Nationals’ Bill will protect the role of volunteers and ensure they can continue to provide the vital, and often life-saving, services for our communities,” Ms Bath said.

“It will protect members like Brian Brewer, a volunteer with 35 years’ service, from the Warragul CFA Brigade, who I met during the inquiry. Brian told me Victoria will be much worse off when it comes to fire preparedness if we do not recognise and protect volunteer roles.”

Many CFA members, including Dumbalk CFA brigade strike team leader Rob Auchterlonie, have continued to voice their concerns over the government’s proposed workplace agreement.

“It is imperative the CFA Act and Volunteer Charter are honoured and not overridden by backdoor arrangements,” Mr Auchterlonie said.

Ms Bath added, “Premier Daniel Andrews is failing volunteer firefighters, trying to let the United Firefighters’ Union take over the CFA – but the Liberal Nationals will not stand for that.”

The Liberal Nationals’ Bill will amend the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 to: • recognise the CFA as a volunteerbased organisation; • recognise the authority’s requirement to have regard to the Volunteer Charter and the principles and commitment contained therein; and • restrict the authority entering any deed, agreement or arrangement that may adversely affect volunteers and or avoid the application of any Commonwealth or Victorian law.

“The bill also aims to strengthen the Volunteer Charter signed by the thenLiberal Nationals Government in 2011 that the current Labor Government has since allowed to be weakened,” Ms Bath said.

Show stopping entertainment THE Korumburra entertainment committee worked on increasing the variety and quality of entertainment at this year’s show.

A first for the show was the tug of war competition, gymnastics, and buskers performing around the oval and later on stage.

Another highlight of entertainment was the Chairo College band, which won the school band competition.

“The judges had a very difficult time choosing the winners with such high talent. The show society would like to thank the judges and the sponsors, without whose assistance the event would not have occurred,” the society’s Shirley Cowling said.

In the South Gippsland Buskers Festival, Janie Gordon of Leongatha won the first prize of $500 sponsored

by Korumburra Rotary.

Sami Vanston of Inverloch won second prize of $300 sponsored by Korumburra real estate agents Treacy, Alex Scott and Elders, and Blue Print Accounting Services.

Third prize of $100 sponsored by the Korumburra Lions Club was won by Gavin Van Eade of Korumburra.

Encouragement award winners were: Aidan Hall, Korumburra ($100 from Koringal Women’s Service Club); Jessica Geyer, Wonthaggi and Kathryn DaveyPhillips, Leongatha (two $50 vouchers from Parry’s Korumburra); and Laurie Hort, Warragul (Burra Sports and Cycles award).

Paralympian Anne Skin-

Entertaining performer: Sami Vanston of Inverloch received second prize in the South Gippsland Buskers Festival from Korumburra Agricultural and Pastoral Society’s Doug Appleton. ner demonstrated her skills and invited children to pat her 18.2h horse Cossacl.

After her accident, Anne began riding with Riding Develops Ability.

“I can’t thank Riding for Disabled Association enough for the part it has paid in my rehabilitation.

The knowledge and experience I had gained during the eight years as a state coach and national assessor made it possible for me to recover from a near fatal accident,” she said.

“The accident left me with massive spinal injuries and little chance of walking again.”

Through her training with RDA, she was able to see the benefits of the organisation’s horse based program.

“The movement of the horse is almost identical to walking in humans, that is to say it is a three-dimensional action; moving our body backwards and forwards at the same time it

Vital issue: Dumbalk CFA’s Rob Auchterlonie discusses the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 with Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath.

Lennie statue to rise in May

By Jessica Anstice THE Lennie Gwyther statue will be put up in Leongatha by May this year, with the financial target nearly reached.

Sounding good: Korumburra Agricultural and Pastoral Society’s Doug Appleton presents South Gippsland Buskers Festival winner Janie Gordon with her $500 prize, sponsored by Korumburra Rotary. moves up and down and oscillating. So, by sitting on the horse and experiencing their movement, many of the muscles we require to stand and walk are activated,” she said.

“The horse played a major part in my rehabilitation. First it was on a special therapy horse through an

RDA program called Hippotherapy, and then on my own horses. Through them I was able to achieve things I couldn’t even have dreamt about before my accident.

Things like representing Australia at two Paralympic games, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004.”

The Sydney Harbour Bridge and Leongatha are connected by a boy, nine year old Lennie Gwyther and his horse, Ginger Mick, who rode the 1000 kilometres from Leongatha to witness the bridge’s opening in 1932.

Sydney Harbour Bridge climb guides will soon be able to tell tourists that a bronze statue of Lennie and Ginger Mick is in Leongatha in honour of the boy’s inspiring accomplishment.

Peter Watchorn from the Lennie Gwyther statue project committee said the group was just waiting on confirmation of some matters.

The statue will be valued at $40,000 and the committee is close to reaching

that target.

“We just need to get through the procedure. Our funding is still okay and the community funding has been good,” he said.

The life sized statue will be made from bronze and will feature Lennie atop his horse Ginger Mick.

The statue will give the whole town something to be proud of.

The statue will be placed opposite the police station in Leongatha temporarily until the re development of Bair Street is complete and then it will be moved into the main street of town.

“It will entice people to visit town and put us on the map,” Mr Watchorn said.

“We’re going to have a big grand opening. The Gwyther family will be there and children will get involved.

“If anyone is interested in donating money towards the Lennie Gwyther statue you can still walk into Bendigo Bank in Leongatha and donate.”

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 17

Quality homes built by locals SOUTH Gippsland Homes strives to make the big step of building your new home as easy as possible.

Based in Leongatha, South Gippsland Homes offers 30 standard designs as a starting to point to help its clients choose and modify their new home.

South Gippsland Homes focuses on using local trade, employing local contractors and supply companies.

Local builders Steve Vuillermin and Brent Casbolt are the directors behind South Gippsland Homes, and each have 30 years of experience and local knowledge.

Tyrone Zukovskis is the manager of South Gippsland Homes with a sales background from a local supply company.

South Gippsland Homes prides itself

on quality and honesty, and provides helpful advice to its clients throughout the building process.

The builders are willing to visit blocks of land with potential clients to discuss build costs and offer feedback.

Clients then move on to the showroom, where a range of standard household products are on display, giving clients a visual of their interior and allowing them to develop a concept that reflects their needs.

“We have interior designer Deanne Staley working with us. People can come in and have half a day to discuss the interior of their new home with her and design a plan to get the ball rolling,” Tyrone said.

South Gippsland Homes’ extends its services from Yarram to Nyora and includes Phillip Island.

Fine finish: customers will be glad they chose to have their new home built by South Gippsland Homes.

Plenty of choice: South Gippsland Homes manager Tyrone Zukovskis welcomes customers to inspect the company’s showroom in Leongatha.

With 30 standard designs and all household products available for viewing in-house, South Gippsland Homes makes building your new home easy.

Family central: kitchens are a busy place in any family home and South Gippsland Homes staff pay attention to their design.

Discover the True Builder’s Touch At South Gippsland Homes, every detail from the initial discussion to the completion of your dream home is crafted by the experience of Master Builders.

. Master craftsmanship . No hidden costs . Local experienced tradesmen . 28 versatile home designs ready to build

A 8 Roughead Street, Leongatha C (03) 5662 4914 M 0448 874 575 W southgippslandhomes.com.au

Stylish appearance: bathrooms in houses by South Gippsland Homes are practical and refined.

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Charming homes will appeal ROSELEIGH Homes offers a selection of quality homes featuring craftsmanship, and stylish and practical designs.

The Ashton design captivates with its elegant and traditional appeal. Once entering through the front door, you will be impressed by the three metre ceilings to the entry, lounge and study area.

The craftsmanship of the kitchen, with feature marble, huge entertainer’s island bench and butlers’ pantry make this kitchen a chef’s delight.

The large open living area, at the heart of the home, will be where family and friends come together. There are two additional living areas ensuring everyone has their own space. The feature day-bed adjoining the kitchen provides a unique

space for relaxing.

The lavish master suite features a separate his/hers walk in robe, together with an opulent ensuite.

This classic and exquisite home will not disappoint, with high ceilings, three living areas and: • alfresco area; • study; • European appliances; • Colorbond roof; • gas ducted heating; • Class M slab; • connections to a 650m2 block; and • alternative plans and sizes available.

The Sienna design is tailored to appeal to those who wish to live in a striking, modern,

House made a home: the Ashton design by Roseleigh Homes is designed for families to live in comfort.

Come along: Roseleigh Homes’ Sienna home, in Waterford Rise Display Village at 17-19 Hillgrove Close, Warragul, will impress upon inspection.

contemporary home.

The Sienna (as displayed) is rated over eight stars, thereby minimising heating/cooling costs through the high thermal performance of the design of the home, including the use of hydronic heating and double-glazed low-e glass (as standard).

The covered porch creates an impressive entry statement to this cleverly designed family home. From the moment you enter, you will be captivated by the four metre high ceiling flowing through the home, forming the centrepiece of the Sienna and setting this home apart.

The sun filled main living area is maximised by clerestory windows and the oversized stacking sliding door brings the outdoors in.

An impressive kitchen leads through to the butler’s pantry and laundry. Open plan living for an inclusive family lifestyle with study nook within sight of the kitchen completes the

living area.

With a separate wing for parents’ indulgence, you will be impressed by the amply proportioned ensuite and walk-in robe.

The exterior of the Sienna is complimented by the extensive use of render, combined with Axon cladding and matrix panel making this home a stand-out.

The Sienna’s cutting edge and energy efficient design is sure to impress and epitomises sustainable living.

The home offers energy efficient living with: • high feature ceiling; • double glazed Low E glass; • study nook; • European appliances; • Colorbond roof; • hydronic heating; • connections to 650m2 block; and • alternative plans and sizes available.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 19

Some plants like it hot Yet, at the end of summer most gardens look a bit tired, dry and dusty. The last month of summer is often hot and dry, but while we wilt in the heat many plants love these conditions.

One of the favourites are crepe myrtles. With their stunning crepe like flowers, these are versatile and there is a plant to suit any sunny garden situation.

Crepe myrtles vary in height from groundcovers, small to tall shrubs, and to small trees, and now with new introductions there are some with stunning foliage.

The most popular and well known are the Indian summer collection, promoted by the well known Flem-

Long lasting: pink statice is still growing and flowering after more than 20 years.

Perennials are floral favourites Initially grown as a herb for its medical benefits, echinacea is extracted from the leaves, roots and flowers of Echinacea purpurea.

Echinacea purpurea attracts butterflies, bees and other insects to the garden and its flowers are also good for cutting. In the ornamental garden, echinacea teams well with other brightly coloured perennials such as salvia, daylily and gaura, along with ornamental grasses.

Monarda is also another stunning herb belonging to the mint family that makes a stunning display in a pe-

rennial garden it has many names including bee balm, horse mint and bergamot.

The aromatic leaves and nectar-rich flowers will ensure bees and birds will be constant visitors to the garden. It is long flowering and makes a good cut flower.

Shasta daisies (luecanthemum) are excellent in mixed borders and as cut flowers. In typical daisy fashion, the beautiful flowerheads usually feature a central boss of golden disc florets surrounded by white florets.

Many sun loving perennials flower now, including achillea (yarrow), balloon flower (platycodon), perennial statice, gaillardia and asters in many flowers, including old favourite white easter daisy.

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MANY colourful perennials bloom at this time of year and one of the best is echinacea (also known as coneflower).

A new comer that has been very popular is called the magic series. Not only a beautiful plant, these crepe myrtles are highly disease resistant including powdery mildew and super hardy and will tolerate some of the toughest conditions once established.

These plants are semi dwarf growing to around 2m and there are three varieties from which to choose: coral magic, plum magic and purple magic.

Plum magic is one of the most popular and is stunning even when not in bloom due to the brilliant contrast of the bright new growth against the very dark, mature foliage. The magic series also colour well in autumn and hold their flowers and foliage well into autumn.

The newest crepe mrtyles on the market are the diamond range. They feature flawless near-black foliage that emerges in early spring, followed by masses of vivid blooms from summer until first frost.

When planted en masse the Lagerstroemia Diamonds in the Dark range creates a vibrant show of colour. The range grows to 3m x 2.5m in height and width. Their compact growth habit makes attractive flowering hedges or beautiful trees to line your driveway or fence.

The Diamonds in the Dark range is perfect for planting in decorative pots to place on your deck, porch or balcony. There are five brilliant colours in the range and while the foliage hangs on these plants until late autumn to early winter, the only downside of these crepe myrtles is that there is no autumn colour, but to see the brilliant flowers against a back drop of nearly black foliage does compensate.

Loving her job: Lucy Westlake, a young apprentice, was up early for trade day for Orths Nursery, well known for their stunning dwarf crepe myrtles available at nurseries.

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SUMMER is officially nearly over and we can be grateful that we live in South Gippsland and have not had to endure the prolonged heat spells of over 40°C other parts of Australia suffered.

ings nursery.

The Indian summer range has been specially bred to resist powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can be seen on some older crepe myrtle varieties.

Each cultivar is name after an American Indian tribe and they range in size from around three to six metres fully grown.

The Indian summer varieties include: • ‘Acoma’ (white flowers and a weeping habit), 3m (10’); • ‘Tonto’ (rich pink flowers), 3m (10’); • ‘Zuni’ (mauve flowers), 3m (10’); • ‘Sioux’ (carmine pink flowers) 4m (12’); • ‘Yuma’ (pale pink flowers) 4m (12’); • ‘Tuscarora’ (rose red flowers) 6m (18’); and • ‘Natchez’ (white flowers) 6m (18’).

The Indian summer range of crepe myrtles can be grown as a shrub or small tree and growth habit depends on pruning when the plant is young.

To grow as a tree prune all lower branches and encourage a central leader but if grown as a shrub minimal pruning is required. Another benefit of these plants is most having spectacular autumn colour and probably one of the best is Sioux.

Lagerstomeia indica (World’s Fair) is one of the smallest crepe myrtles and can be grown as a ground cover or grafted to become a stunning standard. This is a weeping, miniature crepe myrtle that produces deep pinkish-red flowers.

World’s fair is suitable for use in shrub borders in smaller gardens, as a massed ground cover or for hanging baskets and patio containers.

Another is New Orleans which has lavender flowers.

Houston is also a low growing variety but more upright and has watermelon-red flowers.

The lagerstoemia indica nana are best known as dwarf crepe myrtle and come in a range of colours: pink, red, white and lavender. They look brilliant at this time of year and are compact growers that will grow to a maximum height of 1-1.5m and a width of 1.5m and are great plants for smaller patios and can be used in pots.

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PAGE 20 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Community garden a whole new world RAIN, hail or shine, there really is no better place to be than the Leongatha Community Garden.

Tucked away as part of the Community College Gippsland complex, the garden is open for all to enjoy.

Members are welcoming and take in everyone from junior enthusiasts to family groups, encouraging everyone to feel part of the community activity.

It covers everything from fruit and vegetables to native vegetation and chickens, and appeals to all ages.

There is also a meeting room facility that is always prepared for all types of activities.

The workshops take place in the specifically designed room built with donations from the local community.

“It was a really good community effort to construct the building,” Leongatha Community Gar-

th e t a M

den president Tim Howard said.

Classes are run every so often, interesting all types of people.

“We encourage the community to eat healthy and to learn how to cook themselves,” Mr Howard said.

The Leongatha Community Garden has had a rush of interest from the local public over the past few months and due to this, the demand on equipment and facilities has increased.

The current facilities are shaped from enthusiastic donations, and now more stools and more kitchen equipment are on the agenda.

Donations and creations are an extremely strong part of the garden’s life.

The Leongatha Community Garden encourages people of all ages to come along to inspect the garden.

For more information contact Tim Howard on 5667 5648.

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Maintenance: Leongatha Community Garden vice president Rogan Rhind and president Tim Howard spend days on end keeping the garden in shape.

Top left, Fresh produce: Leongatha Community Garden vice president Rogan Rhind and president Tim Howard are proud of the work their members put into the garden beds.

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 21

Outstanding service: if you are after truly personalised boutique style service, make sure you see Brock and Vanessa Fennell at Fennell’s Flooring in Leongatha.

Together, they have the experience necessary to help you select the best option for your home, be it carpet, vinyl, or a wide range of other options.

Brock invites you to visit their beautiful showroom in Leongatha and view their great range of products. Fennell’s Flooring offers a free measure and quote service, ensuring you get the best for your home.

Council does not accept toxic chemicals SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is reminding residents not to take toxic household chemicals to council’s Leongatha depot for disposal Unwanted or out-of-date, highly toxic household chemicals now have to be disposed via Sustainability Victoria’s mobile service. The service was in Morwell on February 25.

See more at: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ detoxyourhome A resident recently told The Star he was concerned no local disposal point was available.

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR� Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Revamp: for those of us who are too busy to do-it-yourself, Leongatha based painter Matthew Johnson has painting covered and can help you on your way to brightening up your home.

Preparation is the key when painting PAINTING can be a fantastic way to followed.

Start from the top of the room and make your give a room a new look, with thorough preparation the key to making sure the way down. Paint the ceiling first, then the walls, then the trims and leave doors to last. finish looks good too.

Always cut in before rolling the ceilings and It is important to remember that preparing and painting a standard room can take time.

You will need to allow at least two days for the preparation and painting of a standard room in good condition.

Preparing surfaces prior to painting is the first and most important step of any painting project.

Clean all surfaces to be painted thoroughly with an appropriate cleaner, such as sugar soap.

Make sure all surfaces are completely dry before continuing and then fill any damage before sanding.

There are many types of filler available.

Choose one specific for the type of surface and for the size of crack or hole to be filled.

Cover the floors and furniture in the room using drop sheets or old bed linen. Mask off windows, power points and switches.

Be aware not to leave any tape on walls or windows longer than recommended on the packaging.

Some are good for a day or two, while some are okay for longer.

Paint jobs are simpler when the right order is

the walls.

When painting the walls, work in sections.

Start from the upper part of the walls and do the lower part last and allow adequate drying time between coats.

Drying times vary, depending on the weather and temperature. If it is cooler, you can put an electric heater on to help the paint dry.

It is important to use the right equipment for

the project. Taking shortcuts and using low quality equipment can affect the final result.

Buy the best brushes and rollers you can afford, as the better the quality, the better the finish.

It is also important to use a roller with the thickness of nap recommended on the paint tin.

Generally, use an 11mm nap roller for low sheen paint and a 5mm nap roller for gloss paint.

Make sure the paint is thoroughly mixed before applying it to the walls. It is also a good idea to check the colour of the paint and to make sure the colours are the same if you have more than one tin.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 23

Take care in the kitchen THE Country Fire Authority is asking residents to take extra care when cooking after two people were injured in two separate kitchen fire incidents last week.

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Firefighters were called to a kitchen fire at Clyde North. On arrival, the residents had managed to extinguish the fire but a male received severe burns to his foot.

CFA Cranbourne Station Officer Brad Trewavis said the oil in the cooking pot flashed and caught fire. The resident was trying to remove the pot outside when the oil spilt onto his foot.

“It’s really important for residents to take the right precautions when cooking,” he said.

“A fire blanket should always be available and don’t try to move the burning pot.

“Kitchen fires can be easily avoided by paying closer attention when cooking.”

Luckily there was no damage to the kitchen in this incident other than some minor smoke damage.

Firefighters remained on scene to assist paramedics and to help clean up the oil in the kitchen to prevent it reigniting.

In Wendouree there was another kitchen fire resulting in a resident receiving burns to his hands, after trying to remove a pot of oil that had burnt over.

Ambulance Victoria was called to the scene to treat the man’s burns.

Cooking in the kitchen is one of the largest causes of fires in the home. A fire in your kitchen can cause extensive damage and injuries.

To prevent kitchen fires residents should: • never leave cooking unattended; • always supervise children in the kitchen and keep them away from the stove top and oven; • turn pot handles away from the stove edge; • keep stoves free of grease and fat build-up; • hang tea-towels away from the stove; • ensure the exhaust fan above the stove is clean; • have a fire blanket and extinguisher stored within easy reach but away from the cooking area; Sizzling hot: chefs may often work with fire in the kitchen but the Country Fire Authority is and urging amateur cooks to not do it at home.

• ensure there is a working smoke alarm.

T 5662 3301 M 0429 503 610 mppick@dcsi.net.au

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SOUTH Gippslanders are urged to ensure they clean fireplaces, chimneys, fireboxes and flues before lighting up.

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With autumn starting this week, the Country Fire Authority is advising that each year, it sees an increase in the number of chimney fires from both fireplaces and solid wood heaters.

CFA South East Region assistant chief officer Trevor Owen said over time there could be a buildup of creosote, a black tar-like residue, which was highly flammable and could clog up chimneys.

“Creosote is not only caused by general use, but it can also build up quicker if you are using incorrect fuels, such as green wood or treated timbers,” he said.

To reduce the risk of fire starting from your fireplace or solid wood heater you should: • use a torch to check for creosote build-up or obstructions; • have your chimney professionally cleaned annually; • only burn dry, clean wood; and • don’t leave your fire to burn after you have gone to bed or left the house.

Mr Owen said residents should also have gas heaters inspected and serviced to ensure the safety of loved ones.

“Every household should consider their fire safety practices and examine the potential risks around their home,” he said.

“Cooler weather conditions and the winter months are one of the riskiest times of the year for fires in the home and sadly, most of these fires can be prevented.

“Chimney fires can quickly turn into house fires so the few minutes spent now could be one of the most important fire safety actions you take.”

Fireplaces can also be a fire hazard if fuels are allowed to fall out of the fireplace. A secure guard or fireproof screen should be used at all times.

If drying clothes please ensure they are positioned at least one metre away from the heat source and constantly monitored to reduce the chance of them igniting.

“One of the nicest things about winter is curling up in front of a warm fire, and with these small tips we can ensure you do this safely,” Mr Owen said.

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PAGE 24 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Schools swim against funding uncertainty

By Brad Lester THE State Government must reveal how it will help schools meet the government’s requirement for all students to be able to swim 50m by the time they leave primary school, Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath said recently.

Raising awareness: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath, at Mirboo North swimming pool, is urging the State Government to support schools in introducing a swimming target for students.

The government last year announced a $100,000 trial involving students from a school at Carrum Downs, who will take part in 10 swimming lessons to learn survival skills such as treading water, floating, rescue strategies and basic CPR. The program is designed to help prepare students for emergency situations, such as falling into water unexpectedly.

An estimated 60 per cent of Victorian children leave primary school unable to swim 50m continuously.

Between 2000 and 2014, there

were 229 drowning and near-drowning incidents involving children aged five to 14. Thirty-two of these were fatal and the remainder required hospitalisation.

Ms Bath said she supported the idea of improving children’s swimming ability to improve water safety.

However she was concerned schools would not have the funding, nor time, to implement the lessons needed for a child to be able to swim 50m.

“Rural school principals across Victoria are saying this could be an additional cost impost of up to $60,000 which must be borne by the school,” Ms Bath said.

She said the requirement to be able to swim 50m would be made part of the curriculum and the government, nor schools, could charge parents for curriculum activities.

“What that means is that in order to be able to swim for that 50m, they might have to do 32 lessons of swimming,” she said.

“The cost would be astronomical and if it’s in the curriculum, schools will wear the cost.

“How do schools squeeze swimming lessons around a busy curriculum?”

As shadow parliamentary secretary for country schools, Ms Bath said most country schools would have to transport students to pools, which would entail extra cost and time.

“Some students already have private swimming lessons so do not need the intensive lessons, so how do we work that into the situation?” she said.

Minister for Education James Merlino said, “Struggling families can access the $148 million Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund to cover the cost so that no student misses out on learning these lifesaving skills.”

All future funding decisions, including in relation to school swimming, will be considered as part of the budget process.

Breaking through ice FAMILY and friends of people struggling with addiction were able to attend a BreakThrough education program at the Bass Coast Health (BCH) Wonthaggi site recently.

The BreakThrough education program addresses misinformation that may have been presented in the media and public discourse about drug use and ice in particular.

Funded by the State Ice Action Plan the program focuses on Amphetamine Type Substances (ATS), explains what ice is, why people use it and why it cause problems for users, families and the broader community.

The program also teaches people how to identify if a loved one is using ATS and about patterns of use.

However the BreakThrough program isn’t just about amphetamines.

The education looks at the relationship between drug use and mental health and pays particular attention to how to keep the lines of communication open.

Helpful and positive communication is vital to supporting people through addiction, as behavioural and emotional complexities can adversely impact other people’s ability to provide help through to wellness.

The program focuses on how to navigate the treatment system and how to obtain the best possible outcomes, looking at some of the barriers to seeking help and how to overcome these barriers.

In addition to the community program, an education session to front line workers about how to manage and cope with challenging behaviours has also been offered to staff from BCH, Bass Coast Shire Council, mental health workers, ambulance and police staff, Wellways staff and other first responders.

CEO Jan Child said, “This type of inter-professional learning is crucial to the success of a whole of shire response to the issues surrounding ice and mental health.

Taking a stand: from left, Bass Coast Health staff Helen Searle and Annie Bailey, program facilitator Shamael Keng, and BCH staff Rachael Smith and Nyarie Morris discuss the impact of ice in the community.

“It was good to see people access the community program, yet unfortunately, many members of our community who could have benefited from this program may not have attended due to the stigma associated with this common problem”.

Breaking down the stigma about addiction is important, as many people do not seek support for this issue due to community opinions.

As a result, both people experiencing addiction and the people around them who are trying to help are forced to do this without support.

For those who did attend, there was a positive response,

with 16 family members attending along with people overcoming addiction.

Participants stated they learned a lot and gained useful strategies about interacting with family members or friends affected by substance use, including alcohol.

BCH provides a confidential service and offers a culture of non-judgement and understanding about this health issue.

It has a dedicated and highly qualified team of people who are passionate about supporting and helping people in the community with issues about misuse and dependence on substances.

Treatment is available for anybody wanting a way out of addiction and the health service has developed an ongoing Family Support Program to educate and support family and friends, which offers family counselling and a family support group.

BCH will be delivering the BreakThrough education program at the Bass Coast Shire offices in Cowes in April.

For further details about this program or BCH’s Family Support Program, or if you have questions about addiction, please call BCH’s Family Resource Centre on 5671 3278.

Council to go live SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council meetings will be streamed live to the public via the internet to give people greater access to meetings.

Council last Wednesday voted to record the meetings via tripod floor mounted cameras, at a cost of $2500.

Council’s acting director of corporate and community services, Vanessa Adams, said, “This solution enables the viewer to see the output of three cameras tiled into one screen with a fourth tile able to view the council agenda or the optional remote controlled camera to focus on the speaker as required.”

The feed has a built-in safety delay of 90 seconds, which can be adjusted, and recordings will be made available on the web via council’s existing YouTube channel at no extra cost.

“It will be important to manage live streaming in a way that is respectful to

all participants, as well as taking account of confidentiality requirements where appropriate,” Mrs Adams said.

To support the operation of live-streamed meetings, small amendments to the Local Law will provide for recordings to be paused, stopped and re-started as required.

A Live Streaming Policy will be prepared. This will include provision for speakers making public presentations at council meetings to consent or decline to be recorded should they prefer.

Cr Don Hill instigated the live streaming idea to enable people who cannot attend to meetings to watch online or later, and to save people travelling into Leongatha to attend meetings.

“The number of views is not critical.

We have to be open to the public and show what we are doing. That’s worth its weight in gold,” he said.

Cr Meg Edwards added council would receive a report about the success of life streaming 12 months after it began.

Grinning winners: St Joseph’s Primary School in Korumburra praised students for choosing positive behaviour recently by presenting Sparky awards. Winners were, front, from left, Georgia, Aslyn and Aidan, and back, Cecily, Taylen, Noah and Milla.

Mayor’s message Cr Ray Argento OUR smaller communities continue to surprise me, punching way above their weight.

This was more than evident at the recent Meeniyan Garlic Festival with large crowds attending to support the many stalls, exhibitions and seminars.

All of the event organisers and volunteer supporters (which must have been the majority of Meeniyan locals!) should give themselves a pat on the back for not only developing the concept of a garlic festival, but for following through and putting Meeniyan and South Gippsland on the map.

This event will be talked about long after the Australia Day scarecrows (which are still providing for an interesting point of discussion around town) have blown away.

This week I also had the privilege of speaking at a meeting of the Victorian Farmers Federation at a branch I once chaired as a dairy farmer.

We discussed the issues the farming industry is experiencing at the moment - many of which are not new to the industries involved, but nevertheless need to be at the fore of our political lobbying.

I always welcome discussions with local groups about how council might be able to help. My door is always open.

Our population of just over 28,000 is predominantly made up of 28 towns and supporting hamlets, many of which have volunteer community groups that aid in the

progress and future direction of these towns with the support of council’s community strengthening team.

The staff in this department focus on helping South Gippsland’s extensive volunteer base to support our broader community.

They do things such as providing opportunities for people to develop skills in managing social media for their club or group, or even by matching experienced volunteer drivers with young people who need driving practice through the L2P program.

Often the assistance comes by helping a group with planning an event or project, such as assisting an energetic group of young people to develop their plans for a new skatepark or supporting the development of a new drama group.

This team has a key role assisting our wide range of sporting groups to find ways to improve their facilities, particularly in developing partnerships with individual clubs or sporting associations.

The new cricket nets at Nyora and Koonwarra are a recent outcome of this support.

The effectiveness of council’s work in this space is the result of close and constant collaboration within council teams and departments. For example, support for the Mirboo North Italian Festa included getting help from council’s depot, parks and gardens team and grants staff. It really is a team effort.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 25

Cater for your wedding wherever you want WHETHER your dream wedding is in a beautiful rural location, by the foreshore or in the backyard of your family home, catering is no hassle with the Feast On Us catering truck.

Owned by Brent Sinclair Catering – known for providing delicious high quality food and

Diverse: Brent Sinclair Catering is offering everything from traditional festival food to a full three course meal from his new catering truck Feast On Us. The truck serves as a kitchen and menus can be tailored to suit individual needs.

fantastic dining experiences – the food truck is a fun and convenient twist on an already well established Leongatha business.

The catering truck serves as a kitchen and menus can be tailored to suit your needs.

“We can provide full three course meals for weddings, we can cater for cocktail parties or we can serve traditional festival food,” Brent said.

“For example, people may like the idea of a ‘festival’ wedding but for those who would prefer a full sit down dinner, we can certainly cater for them.

“It’s a great way to give people the opportunity to have their wedding wherever they want without the stress of catering. We just turn on the truck and we are ready to go.”

As well as weddings, the truck will be used to cater for festivals, functions and events. Brent has had the truck for two months and has catered at major local events including the Garlic Festival in Meeniyan, the Italian Festa in Mirboo North, On the move: Brent Sinclair is taking his catering business on the road with the new Feast the Outdoor Festival in Foster and Inverloch’s On Us catering truck. Brent Sinclair Catering can now provide delicious food for weddings, Sounds of Summer. festivals and special events in any location.

The truck has also been used to serve food at markets in Inverloch.

Based in Leongatha, Feast On Us is available throughout Gippsland.

“Food trucks are a really big trend right now and we have had some excellent feedback,” Brent said.

Elegant attire: looking resplendent in wedding gowns from Maria’s Bridal Studio, Wonthaggi, at the 2015 Great Southern Star Wedding Expo, were from left, Blaire Gillies, Jo Le Page, Brittany Watters, Jamie Vuyst and Madison Wright.

Maria’s Bridal Studio is located at 126 Graham Street, Wonthaggi. Find out more online at mariasbridalstudio.com.au

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Seaside wedding C

ASEY Stockton and Leigh Thorp married at Casey’s childhood home at Corinella on February 11.

The Jam Jerrup couple wed at 5.30pm, with celebrant Annette Maier officiating.

Leigh is the son of Stephen and Karen of Wonthaggi, and Casey is the daughter of Dean and Shannon of Corinella.

Casey was accompanied by Steph Keating.

The bride wore black and white with pops of colour, and carried pink and purple flowers with greenery.

Leigh was accompanied by Anthony Rixon.

The couple honeymooned in Melbourne before returning to their Jam Jerrup home.

Serene setting: Casey Stockton and Leigh Thorp married at Casey’s childhood home at Corinella. Photo: Cameron Butler.

Couples, don’t overlook your legal obligations UNDER the Marriage Act 1961, a couple intending to marry must carry out certain obligations before a marriage ceremony can be solemnised.

A Notice of Intended Marriage (NIM) must be lodged with the marriage celebrant no less than one month and no more than 18 months before the marriage being solemnised.

Under normal circumstances the NIM form would be completed at the first meeting with the celebrant and the required documentation must be produced to him/her at that time, or before the marriage can take place.

Both parties are required to give a minimum one month notice by signing and lodging the NIM. There are some exceptions; for instance if a partner is overseas or interstate and only one can sign a month before the wedding day that is acceptable.

Parties to a marriage must produce evidence of

date and place of birth and this can be done by producing a birth certificate, or an extract of a birth certificate, or an Australian or overseas passport.

Persons born overseas, who cannot produce such original documents under some circumstances can make a statutory declaration as to details of date and place of birth.

In the case of persons previously married, an original copy of their divorce certificate or, if applicable a court annulment certificate.

In the case of widowhood, an original copy of the death certificate must be produced.

Prior to the wedding, both parties will be required to sign a declaration, under the Marriage Act 1961, stating they believe there is no legal impediment to the marriage. This is a legal document and calls for honesty at all times. Penalties may apply for false or misleading information.

Information courtesy of Australian Marriage Celebrants Inc.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 27

Flowers help set the wedding feel WHETHER it’s your table’s centrepiece or your card table arrangement, the flowers you choose for your wedding reception help set the tone for the whole evening.

Florist there to help: meet with your wedding florist and they will help you get the look you want for the wedding day.

But with so many buds out there, in so many colours and sizes, it’s hard to navigate all the arrangements you need to finish off your reception’s decor, where they should go, and how they should be displayed.

Keep an open mind. Some brides are set on a certain bloom, but there are always similar flowers in season.

Take the weather into consideration. Delicate flowers like lilacs and hydrangeas wilt in high temperatures.

Don’t try to cover up eyesores. Putting flowers in front of an emergency exit will draw more attention. Decorate spaces you want guests to see, like the entrance, escort-card table, and bar.

Don’t be predictable. A room looks more interesting when each table is different. Mix larger vases with small groupings of greenery or bud vases with a single bloom.

Don’t put perfume flowers like lilies and hya-

Tailor made: when it comes to weddings Rob Buchan and James Curwain of Modern Male, Korumburra can suit all tastes in men’s wedding attire.

Men’s wedding needs covered MODERN Male Menswear at 37 Commercial Street in Korumburra is the perfect one stop shop for the male wanting to stand out as beautifully attired.

Rob Buchan and his staff have years of experience outfitting men for special occasions.

The store has a great range of suits, pants, vests, shirts, ties, belts, hats, cufflinks and shoes to suit even the most discerning buyer.

The staff is geared to personalised service.

Clients will be matched with clothing that suits their style and personality.

The store offers top quality service with its aim

to ensure its clients leave the store with clothes that will make them not only look good, but feel good.

Modern Male Menswear boasts a great range of clothing offering fantastic choice.

All of the apparel in Modern Male Menswear is seasonal and there is plenty of variety to reflect the taste of the individual.

The store also orders goods for clients.

“If our clients or ourselves are not happy with the look, we always go the extra yard. That’s what we are here for,” Mr Buchan said.

Modern Male Menswear offers discounts for wedding groups.

cinths on the table. They can overpower the food. If you must have them, carry them in your bouquet.

Think about how your bouquets are going to photograph. While you may dream of a huge, full bouquet filled with dozens of the most ornate and beautiful flowers, take a step back and think about your future wedding photos. Do you want a giant bouquet of flowers covering the wedding gown that you spent weeks searching for? Don’t let your flowers overpower you and your photos; use your bouquet to accent your gorgeous wedding day look.

What is the vibe of your venue? If you dream of a rustic, outdoor wedding, sparkling with stringed lights and covered in burlap accents, let your flowers reflect this. Ask your florist what their favourite rustic flowers are and they will give you a list of beautiful arrangements that will add to your theme seamlessly.

When ordering flowers, imagine what your venue is going to look like as a whole. This means thinking about every detail, from the linens down to the place cards. Walk your florist through the venue. Florists can create lovely custom pieces, like a garland to highlight a cool entryway.

Less is more! You want to have it all on your special day and your florist wants you to have it all as well, but trying to incorporate everything you like into a little bouquet can be overwhelming (and expensive!). Make a decision and stick with a theme for a beautiful bouquet that doesn’t feel too crowded.

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

School leaders inducted ST JOSEPH’S School, Wonthaggi’s new student leaders have been inducted in a special ceremony presided over by principal Ronan O’Mahony and parish priest Father Manny Lomagno.

The ceremony, held at a recent school assembly, saw the school captains, vice captains, liturgy captains and house captains called forward to accept their badges, take their leadership commitment oath and receive a blessing.

School captains are Eve Pollitt and Isaac Seuren; vice captains, Laetitia Pugh and Levi Reid; and liturgy captains, Charley Donohue, Jack McNally, Jake Dennerley and Grace Burns.

Red House captains, Mia Plenkovich and Toby Challinor; Blue

House captains, Milli Cicala and Archer Reid; Gold House captains, Imogen Lindsay and Jett Garnham; and Green House captains, Tess Wingfield and Cade Brown.

Mr O’Mahony said he was proud of the efforts of all students and had no doubt the leaders will represent their school admirably.

“All students at St Joseph’s are encouraged to develop and demonstrate leadership skills.

Student leadership teaches respect and responsibility, for ourselves and for fellow students, staff and parents.

It’s a great way to contribute to the successes of the school community,” he said.

At St Joseph’s, school leaders duties range from public speaking at school events to involvement in school activities, and encouraging the involvement of other students.

Leading the way: the new school leaders at St Joseph’s School, Wonthaggi, are looking forward to the new school year.

Bass Coast Council briefs

Grand coastline: an aerial view of Cape Paterson overlooking Undertow Bay. Landholders are creating a wildlife corridor from Cape Paterson through to Cape Liptrap.

Wildlife finds room to move LANDHOLDERS between Cape Paterson and Cape Liptrap are creating an environmental corridor for wildlife by improving and increasing native vegetation on their properties.

The work, which includes protecting remnant vegetation and planting new native plants and grasses, is being funded by the State Government as part of a five-year project run by West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA) and the South Gippsland Landcare Network.

The Cape Liptrap to Bunurong Victorian Environmental Partnership Program is now in its third year.

According to WGCMA land team leader Shayne Haywood, clearing land for agriculture has meant the connection between native vegetation and the Cape Liptrap Coastal Park has been lost, but this is being redressed.

“The Bunurong-Cape Liptrap area has been identified as a high priority area for reconnecting that vegetation,” he said.

“It contains the unique Cape Liptrap Coastal Park ecosystem as well as Anderson Inlet and the Tarwin River which is listed as an important river for the threatened Australian Grayling.

“These iconic natural assets have important environmental, social and economic values. Not only do they support endangered, rare and valuable vegetation, they also support a vibrant nature based tourism industry, which is important for the region economically.

“There is a long history of landowners and local groups working to connect patches of vegetation and this project builds on this fantastic work.”

There are 20 known threatened flora species in the project area including the Strzelecki Gum, and 57 known threatened fauna species, including the powerful owl and southern brown bandicoot.

Large areas of remnant native vegetation lie along the coast, with coastal scrubs, grasslands and woodlands extending from

Anderson Inlet to Cape Liptrap, and heathland east of Cape Liptrap.

Mr Haywood said funding landholders to undertake a range of actions on their properties, including managing weeds and fencing sensitive areas for stock control and native revegetation, helped maintain a healthy landscape everyone could benefit from. In the last year, he said the project resulted in: • 124 hectares of remnant vegetation protected; • six hectares of re-vegetation; • 35 landholders engaged and 18 landholder management agreements established; and • 31 hectares permanently protected through two on-title covenants.

“We are seeing significant results, which benefit both landholders and our flora and fauna,” Mr Haywood said.

“By managing weeds, vegetation has been improved which provides better habitat for native wildlife. When you combine this with native revegetation, weed control helps connect more areas of coastal habitat, which gives the native species the space they need to flourish.”

The Bunurong-Cape Liptrap area is not only environmentally significant – it’s also one of the highest valued agricultural production areas in Victoria.

“It’s a balance, but in our experience most agricultural producers are very aware of the natural values surrounding them and are devoted to supporting environmental activities, not only in the local area but on their own farms as well,” Mr Haywood said.

“This has certainly been demonstrated in the support from landholders for the Bunurong to Cape Liptrap environmental project.”

The Bunurong to Cape Liptrap project is being funded through the State Government’s Victorian Environmental Partnerships Program, which was established to protect, restore and manage native vegetation, habitats and threatened species through partnerships with regional government agencies and communities.

Council backs paper

a new lease on a term of up to 10 years at its February meeting.

BASS Coast Shire Council will support the Keep me Posted – support the consumers’ right to choose campaign.

Normal procedure would see the lease be put out to public tender.

Cr Michael Whelan said the lease should have been managed better.

“We have some obligation to work directly with the leaseholder on that basis. It will be advertised for community feedback,” he said.

Cr Bruce Kent was opposed to the motion and said the leaseholder should have

The Keep me Posted campaign promotes the right of Australians to receive, free of charge, important information from service providers in paper format.

Cr Les Larke said 25 percent of the shire’s residents don’t have access to the internet, which means paper correspondence is often a necessity.

Recycling takes a seat PUBLIC spaces across the Bass Coast Shire Council could be refurnished with products made from recycled materials in the future.

The council resolved to consider the purchase of recycled products when replacing furniture in reserves.

Cr Geoff Ellis said the motion was a “great opportunity to show leadership in relation to recycling”.

Working group for Island A WORKING group will be established to plan and coordinate New Year’s Eve activities on Phillip Island.

The working group will be formed in February and is expected to include representatives from the council, the Phillip Island Tourism and Business Association, the Phillip Island progress Association, the Cowes Retail Traders Association as well as emergency services and the community.

Cr Bruce Kent said he hopes the group can bring people together to come up with outcomes to support the whole community.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for them to get together,” he said.

Kiosk review BASS Coast Shire Council approved a motion to negotiate directly with the tenant of the Anderson Street Kiosk in Cowes for

been aware that at the end of her nine year term, the lease would go up for tender.

“It is the council’s job to maximise the benefit to the community and to get the best outcome for the site,” he said.

Meetings spread out BASS Coast Shire Council will now hold ordinary council meetings in Wonthaggi, Cowes, Grantville and Inverloch as part of its

newly adopted schedule.

Council resolved at its February meeting to alternate meetings between Wonthaggi and Cowes, with the exception of one meeting in Grantville and one in Inverloch.

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said while historically the majority of ordinary meetings were held at the Civic Centre in Wonthaggi, council wanted to make the meetings more accessible to communities throughout the shire.

Mayor’s message Cr Pamela Rothfield

THE dedication, effort and hours volunteered by so many of our community members never ceases to amaze me!

Every week I meet dedicated people who donate their time to work towards a common goal, whether it’s raising money for charity or working at community centres and facilities to help keep them running sustainably.

No matter the cause, each and every one is all for the betterment of our Bass Coast community.

I recently met with a group of enthusiastic ladies who form the Friends of the Phillip Island Library Group. Their involvement in the library is fantastic, and they are yet another local group that proves just how valuable and important their time is to our community and what a crucial role they play.

It’s no secret that some volunteer groups, not just in Bass Coast but around the country, are struggling to find new members and recruit the help they need to survive, but this friends group is flying in the face of trends and going from strength to strength.

I also had the pleasure of welcoming the Baton Run motorcycle riders to Bass Coast, at the Vietnam Veterans Museum on their final leg of their five day ride, which promoted PTSD Awareness, supported by another local group, Shepherds Australian Foundation.

The purpose of the ride is to raise awareness of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury amongst Returned Service and frontline Emergency Service personnel, which too often results in unacceptable number of suicides each year. According to the Bureau of Statistics, at any one time in Australia 1.4 million Australians suffer from PTSD. It affects people from all walks of life and across all social economic levels.

The Baton holds great significance as it demonstrates the need to “share the burden” as you would in a relay race. You cannot win a relay alone; we all must be willing to share the burden and each do our bit.

The money raised from the Baton Run will be directed to an organisation called Whiskeys Wish, who trains and places high-

ly skilled service dogs, for Veterans and first responders to aid them, whether the need is physical or emotional. The unconditional love and emotional stability which a dog offers assists with anxiety and depression and provides comfort and support to our first responders and veterans.

I’d like to congratulate the Shepherds Australian Foundation, particularly the founders Bear, Burg and JC, for founding this brilliant event and thank them for including Bass Coast on their journey. We hope to see you back again next year!

Speaking of being back again – we welcomed our third cruise ship visit for the year at Rhyll on Saturday, February 18, as the Golden Princess returned. Unfortunately the weather was not so kind this time around, but the passengers were still happy and enjoyed their day in our beautiful little corner of the world nonetheless.

Last, but certainly not least, I was delighted to present our 2017 Young Leaders with their awards at a special ceremony held last Tuesday afternoon, February 21.

Our Young Leaders, representing all of our schools and VCAL programs in the shire, demonstrate integrity and passion, work hard at their successes and support others. These qualities create schools and communities that are vibrant, inclusive and strive to achieve excellence.

We are proud of Bass Coast’s young people and recognise they are often drivers, initiators and passionate participants of community activities.

Prior to the awards ceremony, our 2017 Bass Coast Young Leaders participated in a leadership workshop with myself, our deputy mayor Cr Brett Tessari and CEO Paul Buckley.

We interviewed the students and asked them who they look up to in their community, and the students then had a chance to question us in a session of ‘Mad Minute’ – although it was more like two with so many great questions! We had a great time and it was fabulous to meet each and every one of them, and hear what they had to say about leadership.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 29

Bursting with appeal

Leongatha

Page 30

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR� Tuesday, February 28, 2017

STAR Real

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 31

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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It belongs to an era that oozes character and apHIS perfectly positioned home is lopeal that is hard to find in today’s modern builds. cated between the sporting precinct The polished floor boards add warmth and atmoand the town shopping centre. sphere; the four panelled timber interior doors, deep It is also close to schools and within walking dis- architraves and high ceilings are all reminiscent of tance of most town amenities. days gone by.

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PAGE 32 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

STAR Real

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The acreage slopes to the north, and has an original piggery shed and large hayshed.

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 33

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PAGE 34 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

New camera helps keep surgery close to home SOUTH Gippslanders have access to more surgery at Foster thanks to a donation by Esso/BHP Billiton.

The company donated a camera head to South Gippsland Hospital’s surgical team, enabling more day procedures to be performed at the hospital instead of people having to travel to other hospitals and possibly needing an overnight stay.

The Karl Storz camera head is used for laparoscopies during which surgeons inspect the organs inside the abdomen, and forms part of a stack of endoscopic HD imaging equipment used in urology, gynaecology and general surgical sessions each week.

Mark Duthie, Barry Beach marine terminal superintendent, recently visited

the hospital to see the Karl Storz camera head and Gabrielle Buckland, peri operative nurse unit manager, explained how it was used.

Mr Duthie said, “The Esso/BHP Billiton joint venture contributions program has been supporting the South Gippsland Hospital for 30 years. We’re proud of our partnership with the hospital which provides a vital service to the community and is another example of the significant investment Esso has been making to the Gippsland community for more than three decades.”

Hospital CEO Chris Trotman met Mr Duthie during his visit and expressed the hospital’s appreciation for the company’s long standing support which has provided equipment across many areas of the hospital over the years, in particular the urgent care clinic.

Come along: the South Gippsland Relay for Life now has 17 teams and 121 walkers, who have raised more than $15,000 for cancer services. The relay will be held at Fish Creek on March 18 and 19.

The relay committee this year, is back, from left, Deanne Staley, Nicole Collyer, Kerri Smith, Richard Jones, Andrew Cripps and chair Irene Gale.

Front, from left, Chris McLean, Kerry Cripps, Cancer Council representative Jo Walster and Claire Buckland.

Making a difference: discussing the new camera head at South Gippsland Hospital were Gabrielle Buckland, perioperative nurse unit manager at South Gippsland Hospital, with Mark Duthie, Barry Beach marine terminal superintendent from Esso/BHP Billiton.

Ferry project on the cards BASS Coast Shire Council will lead the development of a business case for a car ferry between Cowes and Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula.

Satisfied with change: the new intersection of Anderson and McCartin streets in Leongatha is a better solution for trucks but will take drivers some getting used, truck drivers say.

Drivers catch on to new intersection

By Caroline Varrasso Crawford COMPLETED in November 2016 at a cost of $6.22 million, the Leongatha heavy vehicle alternative route appears to be catching on with drivers.

Truck drivers have found the change to be worthwhile but believe it will take some time for all drivers to understand and properly negotiate the new route, with confusion causing some accidents.

“The intersection has created a few dramas for people. People don’t look for the give way sign,” transport manager of Ryan’s Transport, Leongatha, Tom Ryan said.

“Most of my guys are being cautious as they go through the

intersections. People can be too complacent.”

South Gippsland Shire Council proposed the route would provide increased safety, amenity and economic benefits to Leongatha.

“To be completely honest, it works perfectly for us. Thinking selfishly, as far as our business and our trucks, it’s a good result,” Mr Ryan said.

General manager of Riseleys Transport, Leongatha, Trevor Riseley agreed.

“It certainly is easier from the industrial section,” he said.

“It’s not a perfect solution, but it’s all they could do with the money available. It’s going to take people a lot of time to get used to it.”

The previous intersection at the South Gippsland Highway and Roughead Street was a struggle for larger trucks.

“They had to do something, it was a real problem. It’s a lot safer now and you don’t have the problem of trucks being on the wrong side of the road to turn left,” Mr Ryan said.

The alternative route was said to remove approximately 600 heavy vehicles from the Leongatha CBD each day.

“I think it’s better without the trucks in the main street for sure,” Mr Riseley said.

The reduction of heavy vehicles was also to help support council’s Bair Street rejuvenation project, aiming to create a more vibrant and prosperous commercial and retail precinct for Leongatha.

While the safety of trucks and pedestrians has increased, the works to improve parking opportunities, pedestrian safety, and access to the shopping precinct are yet to be seen.

The Cowes to Stony Point car ferry infrastructure business case project is a joint initiative of council, Regional Development Victoria (RDV) and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.

It will review the cost, requirements and viability of a car ferry between the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island.

RDV will contribute $200,000 to the project, while the participating councils will contribute $25,000 each.

Bass Coast mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said investigation into the feasibility of a car ferry is supported by council’s Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, Growing Tourism and Destination Phillip Island’s Strategic Tourism Plan 2014 to 2019.

“There has been strong interest by a range of key stakeholders, such as Visit Victoria, RDV, Destination Phillip Island, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, Destination Gippsland and key tourism

attractions on the Island to continue to explore the viability of a car ferry,” she said.

“At this stage, council hasn’t committed to anything more than a business case and will be asking the community for input as part of the process.

“We will have the opportunity to assess the recommendations of this project before any further decisions are made.”

A car ferry between Stony Point and Cowes could stop Phillip Island being a one way destination and create an iconic coastal touring route.

The touring route, incorporating the Great Ocean Road, Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island, Mainland Bass Coast, Wilsons Promontory and the Gippsland Lakes, has the potential to boost both international and domestic visitation.

“The Stony Point to Cowes leg is the missing link, which has the potential to increase economic activity across mainland Bass Coast and greater Gippsland,” Cr Rothfield said.

A project brief will be presented to council for endorsement in March, with the project scheduled to begin in July this year.

Forgotten land to enhance Scenic Reserve BASS Coast Shire Council will advertise to acquire the remaining privately owned allotments within the Scenic Estate subdivision at Surf Parade on Phillip Island.

Council is now acquiring the allotments so they can be incorporated as part of the Scenic Estate Conservation Reserve.

In 2013, council set the land aside for environmental conservation, and the reserve was officially opened to the public in March 2015.

In the following August, council be-

gan the process to compulsory acquire the remaining privately owned allotments and in July 2016, began to make offers to land owners at valuation.

Bass Coast mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said council was undertaking a compulsory acquisition process as it was unable to contact the owners of the remaining blocks, many of whom live overseas.

“The reserve now includes 1.5km of walking tracks, boardwalks through native grasslands and wetlands, and a viewing platform overlooking the RAMSAR wetland and Churchill Island Marine National Park,” she said.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 35

School picnic appeals WONTHAGGI North Primary School celebrated the return of a new school year with a family picnic recently.

Principal Andrew Strickland said, “This was a fantastic opportunity for staff to mingle with students and their families on a less formal basis.

“A few fun activities saw the kids getting involved in the egg and spoon and balloon races, while the three-legged races saw even the grown-ups having a go.”

All smiles: the Botteril family enjoyed Wonthaggi North Primary School’s picnic recently. From left, Evan, Martine, Charlotte and Michelle.

Drink up for the challenge SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council, Bass Coast Shire Council and the South Coast Water Partnership are encouraging local residents to sign up for VicHealth’s H30 Challenge to improve their health.

The H30 Challenge encourages Victorians to make a simple 30 day pledge to replace every sugary drink they would normally drink with water.

Sugary drinks include sugar-sweetened soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit drinks, sports drinks, ready-to-drink iced tea, flavoured water and cordial.

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter welcomed South Gippsland and Bass Coast’s involvement in the H30 Challenge.

“The H30 Challenge costs nothing and could make a big impact on your life. A regular 600ml bottle of soft drink contains

about 16 teaspoons of sugar and there are around 11 teaspoons of sugar in a sports drink,” she asid.

“You wouldn’t put this much sugar in your morning coffee yet many people are unknowingly consuming such high amounts on a daily basis.”

H30 Challenge project worker Rachel Sands expected the challenge to be a success.

“Taking the H30 Challenge and switching sugary drinks for water for 30 days is an easy way to start making a big difference to your health,” she said.

“As part of the challenge we will be visiting community events to sign up local residents to the challenge. So join in the fun with photos and drink bottle giveaways.”

To sign up for the challenge please visit www.h30challenge.com.au/lga/southgippsland or www.h30challenge.com.au/ lga/basscoast according to your region.

• OBITUARY

Korumburra will miss Norrie SHIRLEY Leonorie ‘Norrie’ Little (nee Walker) was a wife, a mother, a nana, an organiser, a worker, an adviser, a sportswoman, a coach, a caterer, a supporter and a fighter.

Born on December 16, 1937 at Korumburra Hospital, she lived and worked in the local community her whole life.

The mantra she instilled in her family was “if you start something you must finish it”.

That driving force followed Norrie and can be seen in all the things she became involved with in her life.

She did not sit back and expect to be given things; she always said you earned them.

In every committee, sporting club, community group and, most importantly her family, she helped to build the things she was involved in.

Norrie loved her sport and earned herself three life memberships. She believed if you were involved in a sporting club, you must give back.

Whether it be tennis, golf, or netball, she upheld her values and gave her all to the organisations she was a part of, taking on committee roles, helping in the canteen, coaching or by being a supporter.

Her involvement in the Korumburra Netball Association earned her a much deserved life membership in

Served Korumburra: Shirley ‘Norrie’ Little loved her family and the people of Korumburra.

1982.

She was also recognised with a life membership from the Bena Football Club and received the best club person award in the year 2000.

With the amalgamation of Korumburra and Bena in 2001 she became the most ardent supporter of the Korumburra-Bena Football Netball Club and sat dressed in the club colours supporting her children and grandchildren in their games.

Golf also became a passion in Norrie’s life and she was a dedicated and integral member of the Korumburra Golf Club for 40 years.

She took on yet more roles at the club and in the women’s committee she held the office of president, captain and secretary for many years and was heavily involved with

the catering at the club.

Representing Korumburra throughout the golfing community, Norrie was a winner of many notable events and was awarded ladies’ champion twice, was a Star Medallist five times, and even achieved the coveted golfer’s goal of a hole in one.

For her tireless efforts at the club, she was awarded a life membership.

It was not only sporting clubs that held Norrie’s time and passion. For 27 years she and her husband John organised the Korumburra Debutante Ball.

They saw generations of local teenagers through the coming-of-age event, making sure they knew where to stand and ensuring the girls’ dresses were sitting properly for the big night.

The community as a whole and the vast and varied lives that Norrie touched and subsequently shaped throughout her 79 years will feel the loss of the great and committed woman she was.

She was the wife of John for 58 years, the mother of Kerri, Julie, Glenn, Stephen, and Shelley, the mother in law of Ross, Ian (deceased), Peter, Bec, Amanda, and Tim, and nana to 15 grandchildren and to two great grandchildren.

With determination, passion, love and commitment, she built her life as a volunteer to serve others.

She shaped the environment she lived in and everyone reaped the rewards of her work.

Emergency under control: Seth Belsar from Inverloch was cared for by the skilled staff at the Bass Coast Health emergency department at Wonthaggi Hospital recently. Seth’s parents Nathan and Sarah could be assured they were in the best care with emergency specialist Dr Nicole Dyer, nurse unit manager Cath Jones, and final year medical student Sam Robinson after the record success the department achieved over the demanding summer season.

Peak patient plan put to the test WONTHAGGI Hospital emergency department has seen its busiest summer season so far but continues to improve patient care.

The department saw 1642 patients in the emergency department in January alone, an increase of 150 from last year’s figure of 1492.

December also saw an increase in patients from 1379 in 2015 to 1615 in 2016.

Staff rose to the challenge and treated patients more quickly and reached key performance indicators set by the State Government.

“I’d like the local community to feel assured we have the skills and capability to look after them competently,” emergency specialist Dr Nicole Dyer said.

“People are welcome here; I want them to have confidence in our team.”

The new fast track area in the emergency department for quicker consults with emergency patients that are not in a critical condition deals with patient flow more effectively.

Fast track includes a separate waiting area, two individual consult rooms, and a procedure room, which provides more privacy for patients and has made a big difference to the efficiency of the emergency department by allowing senior staff to focus on critical patients while patients with less serious conditions can still be attended to.

Their new summer strategy for the December 26 to January 27 period also helped with the influx of emergency patients.

The strategy centred on increasing staff with additional nurses, doctors, porters and ward clerks at the hospital.

They have increased the numbers of senior staff members and they were rostered overnight for the first time, as well as specialists being on call.

These strategies will be reviewed.

“We have a very skilled staff at Bass Coast Health and there is a growing demand for our services,” CEO of Bass Coast Health Jan Child said.

The hospital received 858 ambulance arrivals at the busy emergency department in the three months to the end of December, up from 814 arrivals in the previous three months.

They completed the transfer of 94.1 per cent of patients who arrived at the hospital in an ambulance in the December quarter within the target of 40 minutes, up on the 87.7 percent transfer rate in the December 2015 quarter and better than the state-wide benchmark of 90 percent.

Ambulance Victoria data confirms people in the Bass Coast Shire can have confidence that in an emergency, they will get the care they need, quickly.

The average time for an ambulance to reach the scene of a code one accident or emergency in the shire has improved, to 14.55 minutes in the December quarter from 15.18 minutes three months earlier.

The icing on the cake for staff who took record patient demand in their stride was the increased amount of compliments the hospital received during their busiest season, not an increase of complaints.

New home for Korumburra skaters

By Caroline Varrasso Crawford THE creation of a brand new skate park and youth hub in Korumburra has begun with the South Gippsland Shire Council voting to spend $50,000 from the capital works budget on the project.

Currently the skate park is located in the showgrounds and “there are barriers for people to use the skate park when other events are on,” manager at Milpara Community House, Jenni Keerie, said.

Milpara has been involved in the consultation process by engaging with the skate park users and young people to ensure the park is designed with youth in mind.

“The skate park users have been very much involved.

They’re all very keen,” Ms Keerie said.

The proposal has been met with support from council.

“It has been recognised by community that the current location in the showground site is noisy and has

been an area of tension in the community for some time,” Ms Keerie said.

There is currently no definite site for the new construction but the new placement will most likely be around the train station precinct.

The draft for the youth hub has been completed and organisers are currently moving on to the next step of applying for funding to support the process.

The current funding will make up only a quarter of the costs with final estimates expected to fall in the region of $200,000. “$50,000 is a good kick start,” said Ms Keerie, who expects fundraising for the remaining money to take at least 12 months.

Currently there are not many facilities for the youth population in Korumburra with this new addition hoping to “create a positive image for the young people,” Ms Keerie said.

Completion of the project is estimated to take at least three years.

“The more people who show support, the sooner it will happen, rather than later,” Ms Keerie said.

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Wildlife warriors watch over Hoodies WITH temperatures soaring, one would expect most children holidaying on Phillip Island to be in the water or playing on their devices, but

not so for a group of four special kids who visited Surf Beach in January.

During their time at the beach, this group of youngsters were so enthralled by a pair of Hooded Plovers

(Hoodies) and their chick, and concerned for their welfare, they took it upon themselves to raise awareness and some hard earned cash to aid in the conservation of this endangered bird.

Tore, Ollie, Mathilda

Raising awareness: from left, Tore, Ollie, Mathilda and Soleil collected funds towards the conservation of Hooded Plovers while holidaying at Phillip Island.

LILLITH Grace Byrne is the first baby for Patrick Byrne and Amanda Webb of Leongatha. She was born at Leongatha Hospital on February 21.

and Soleil set up an information and fundraising stall in their front yard, complete with a hand-drawn poster and a collection bucket.

Not a pedestrian, cyclist or even occasional car managed to get by without the kids spruiking about this worthy cause.

Impressively they collected a total of $39.10 from the passers-by who all left with a greater understanding of the importance of preserving this wonderful little bird.

“This was a fantastic effort, especially in the height of summer,” said Daniel Lees, Phillip Island Nature Parks ranger and Hooded Plover Watch coordinator.

“It was a great pleasure to not only see these kids embrace the need for conservation so wholeheartedly, but also to inform them just a few days later that despite the odds the chick fledged, becoming able to fly and make its own way in the world.”

Hooded Plover Watch is a community-based initiative supported by the Penguin Foundation, Phillip Island Nature Parks, BirdLife Australia, Parks Victoria and Bass Coast Shire Council.

For more information or to learn about becoming a volunteer, please contact Daniel at dlees@penguins.org.au

Out, about: Leongatha Probus Club member Cynthia Bellingham waves during a recent club boat cruise from Inverloch to Tarwin Lower.

Probus club pursues fun LEONGATHA Probus has a jam-packed year ahead with a program designed to offer members a wide range of interesting activities to look forward to.

With

membership

JAMES Gregory Lloyd McNamara was born at Leongatha Hospital on February 13. James is the first son for Travis and Rebecca of Leongatha, and a brother for Claire, 9, and Chelsea, 6.

around the 100 mark, the club continues to attract a steady stream of new members.

An excellent range of interesting guest presenters will speak on a diverse range of topics at the Probus general monthly meetings, held on the third Monday morning of each month.

The secret of the club’s success is the wide array of smaller groups meeting regularly within the month.

This ensures there is something of interest for all members.

Many members get great benefit from the monthly Friendship Group where they meet at the RSL and enjoy one another’s company over a cuppa and sometimes lunch.

The club has organised some interesting travel opportunities for 2017. Some members have recently returned from a fun-packed six day East Gippsland lakes and river cruise.

Another regular group activity is savouring local South Gippsland cuisine by eating out at a different local eatery each month.

The Knit ‘n’ Natter Group attracts healthy numbers and the Tours and

Outings Group has planned a variety of interesting day trips.

Proposed visits for the year include trips to Healesville Sanctuary to see the new koala exhibit, several scenic tours, seeing My Fair Lady at the Regent Theatre, a visit to the Victorian National Gallery, as well as regular monthly ‘mystery tours’ to a range of fascinating venues around the area.

President Tony Kamphuis said, “We are delighted to welcome a steady stream of new members joining the club. Many of these are new to the area and have been invited to come along by existing members and have enjoyed the friendly welcoming atmosphere at the club.

“Membership of Probus is open to any person who is retired or semi retired. With a good mix of couples as well as single members, it is a great place for people to make new friends or reconnect with people they have known for years”.

Anyone wishing to obtain more information on the club or would like to attend the next meeting should contact secretary Pauline Kamphuis on 5662 3996.

Milpara Community House news THE Small Business Victoria Workshop, Effective Business Networking, is scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, March 1.

CHARLEE Gayle Crew is the first baby for Andrew and Alanna Crew of Woodleigh. Charlee was born at Leongatha Hospital on February 18.

SCARLETT Melonie Lethbridge is another daughter for Vince Lethbridge and Rebecca Fraser of Korumburra. Scarlett was born at Leongatha Hospital on February 10 and is a sister for Bayli, 10, and Aubrey, 2.

Aren’t cup cakes amazing! They taste delicious and are quick and easy to make. Learn to turn a humble cupcake into something truly beautiful at our Cup Cake Decorating workshop.

Tanja will demonstrate how to make Italian Meringue icing and then teach you a variety of different decorating techniques. You’ll head home with some new skills and four yummy cupcakes you’ve decorated in different designs.

This term we’re trying our hand at pasta making on Thursday, March 9. At this hands on workshop, you’ll learn the tricks of using a pasta machine. Make plain or colourful flavoured flat pasta to take home. A shared lunch of pasta is included in the workshop.

We’re running a special flower arranging workshop using seasonal flowers and foliage from the garden. Bring along your flowers, evergreen foliage and a container and you’ll learn about preparation, colours and shape.

With a little know how your arrangements will highlight the natural beauty and celebrate your garden. If you don’t have access to flowers, that’s not a problem. Let us know as we have some keen gardeners who can help.

Construction Induction is being offered on March 16.

Please enrol as soon as possible for this course so we can confirm numbers. Also coming up is Level 2 First Aid and CPR on March 25.

For bookings and enquiries please call Milpara 5655 2524.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 37

The Good Life

Your LOCAL guide to Art and Entertainment

Love that jazz by the sea THE beautiful seaside town of Inverloch will hold its annual Jazz Festival on the Labour Day long weekend of March 1013.

Many people attend the festival and the town is a buzz with holidaymakers, tourists and festival goers over the weekend.

This year marks the 24th anniversary of the festival, a community run event sponsored by Bass Coast Council, Bendigo Bank and local businesspeople.

It promises to be a great weekend, taking place at three venues in the town centre: the Community Centre, The Warrawee Senior Citizens Club, and the Inverloch RSL, all within easy walking distance.

Two hundred talented musicians will present an exciting mix of jazz.

Some of the artists include Tony Gould, Sarah Maclaine, Pippa Wilson, The Wizard and Anita Harris, plus traditional bands The Wonderdogs and Slipdixies , as well as a new young Phillip Island band Jake Amy and the Groove Hunters.

This is just a sample of the fantastic jazz visi-

colourful cars, banners and musicians.

This year, the Invy Horn Jam Band will entertain the crowd before the parade, which will include the Wonthaggi Citizens Band. Senator Derryn Hinch will attend the parade and help with the judging.

There is a Saturday market and a combined church service at the Community Centre at 9.30am on Sunday.

On Monday, there is a free picnic in the local park, The Glade, with food, wine, jazz and local producers showcasing their products.

All in all, this event will be most enjoyable for all the family.

Come for one day or stay for four and be part of this exciting weekend.

Information and ticketing at www.inverlochBe enchanted: pianist The Wizard (Andrew Farrell) will captivate audiences at the 24th jazzfestival.com, or contact Clive or Carol on 5678 8041.

Inverloch Jazz Festival.

There is wheelchair access to all the venues and some disabled parking in A’Beckett Street. tors will hear.

As one patron said, “It’s the only festival I Crowd favourite: singer Sarah Maclaine The Saturday parade, organised by Rotary and know of where you can listen to jazz, go for a will entertain at the 24th Inverloch Jazz commencing at 10am, is a highlight, known for swim, and come back for more!”

Festival.

Women’s topics take to stage BRAD Beach is the director of The Vagina Monologues, a play which is about to be staged in Foster by local theatre company, FAMDA.

Women speak out: Brad Beach will direct The Vagina Monologues, to be presented by FAMDA at Foster in March.

Great spot: come and see ArtSpace Wonthaggi volunteer Cheryl Sargent and Wonthaggi Information Centre volunteer Dick Kors in the amazing art gallery, which has been recently established in the Centennial Centre in Wonthaggi. The ArtSpace and the Information Centre share the space with the Wonthaggi Business and Tourism Association.

He has given the play a social context and declared, “Firstly and most of all – this is a show which involves a group of women having drinks and a catch up with their girlfriends and having a wonderful time!”

Brad is passionate about the play and has wanted to direct it ever since he first saw it performed.

He was inspired by the amazing response of women leaving the theatre after a performance and hearing how much they enjoyed the show and of their experiences while growing up.

“Seeing a piece of theatre that created that need for people to talk about their own experiences has always stuck with me. I think that people most enjoy seeing a show that reminds them of their own experiences,” he said.

Over the last eight years Brad has been seeking a theatre company willing to produce The Vagina Monologues.

Some companies were concerned about staging a play with the word ‘vagina’ in the title, as though it were something to be ashamed of, so he was delighted FAMDA was keen to produce this show.

The monologues are designed to inspire, reassure and empower women as they cover many topics which comment on current issues.

There is a serious side to the chosen monologues with strong messages about the repugnance of violence, in any form, against women and children, yet the stories promote laugher while allowing women to reflect on their experiences.

The Vagina Monologues is, however, not a show just for women.

Brad says another motive to direct the show came from his belief that more men need to be involved and make a stand to say that all women should be free from harassment and violence.

Brad really hopes men will come and see the show, because it helps them gain an insight into what it’s like to be a woman, what it’s like to experience the wolf whistle.

Wayne Moloney, currently directing Miss Saigon at Wonthaggi and FAMDA’s Roger De Bris, who is in The Producers, echoed these sentiments,

saying they saw The Vagina Monologues at the Wonthaggi Golf Club in the early 2000s and found it both moving and hilarious.

So this is a message to all you men: do not be deterred by the show title, you will have a marvellous night in the theatre. You might even learn how to push the other half’s buttons.

FAMDA is keen to promote the show to men and has even introduced a super special discount night on Friday, March 10 when men can attend for half price - just $10 - while women’s tickets will cost $20.

Brad has been buzzing with praise for the amazing passion and talent of the women wanting and willing to stand up on stage and provide a wonderful night of entertainment.

His fabulous cast consists of Dianne Berryman, Nicole Cooper, Cindy Hasthorpe, Laura Muranty, Alison McIntyre and Hadassah Wanstall, all of whom have shown outstanding dedication and commitment in their determination to convey the

show’s serious messages with sincerity and conviction while preserving the humour inherent in the play.

Although people might hear about The Vagina Monologues and think it’s a heavy show. Don’t be confused or deterred, as it’s a show that will make you laugh, cry and then laugh twice as hard.

FAMDA will stage The Vagina Monologues at the Foster Arts Centre between March 9 and 24 in the lead up to the Prom Coast Seachange Festival.

Evening performances are at 8pm and there are matinees at 2pm on Saturday, March 18 and Sunday, March 19.

Tickets can be booked on line via www.famda. org.au, through Main Street Revelations in Foster or 5682 1381.

The Vagina Monologues is full of comedy with the occasional serious moment, highlighting what it means to be a woman in today’s society but be warned, it does contain strong language and adult themes unsuitable for anyone under 18.

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 39

Flower Passionate teacher joins Leongatha college show to bloom

By Jye Davey

LEONGATHA Secondary College is proud to announce a new addition to staff for 2017, Brad Hutchinson.

He will be taking on the role of acting assis-

THE Welshpool and District Horticul- tant principal previously filled by Greg Ellt.

Mr Hutchinson has previously taught at tural Society’s autumn flower show is on Heathmont College, Mary MacKillop Catholic soon.

Regional College and SEDA. It will be in the Welshpool Hall on Friday, March 10 from 1.30pm to 5pm and Saturday, March 11, from 10am to 4.30pm.

This show will feature dahlias, attracting some excellent growers from all parts east of Melbourne vying for the Gladys John’s Memorial Trophy along with a purse.

The official opening will be conducted by Prom Coast citizen of the year Deb Collins at 2pm on Friday.

For more information, phone show secretary Fran Grylls on 5184 1376.

His specialty teaching areas include physical education, mathematics and VCAL subjects.

He has also taken on positions as a year level coordinator, senior school leader, principal and assistant principal over his various times at other schools.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to be working as part of a team with educators who are passionate about improving student outcomes,” he said.

Mr Hutchinson is looking forward to joining

the college staffing team, and hopes to give students the confidence to perform to their highest standards and understand the content more clearly they are studying.

When asked what stood out about Leongatha Secondary College when applying for the job, he cited his love of South Gippsland and what it has to offer.

He also communicated his enthusiasm about the direction the college was taking, especially with the fantastic new facilities.

Advice for students in 2017 from Brad Hutchinson • Always be yourself.

• Treat others as you wish to be treated.

• Take a moment each day to show your gratitude to someone in your life, whether at school or at home.

Joining the team: new assistant principal at Leongatha Secondary College, Brad Hutchinson.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Farming Insight Stronger interest in rare export stock THERE were approximately 1400 export and 200 young cattle penned representing a decrease of 270 head week on week.

There was a full field of buyers present and operating in a mixed market. Quality was very mixed with a lift in supply of secondary and plainer cattle affecting averages in places while the more limited selection of prime export cattle sold to stronger demand.

Trade cattle sold from firm to a little dearer for the limited offering with the heavy vealers up to 8c/ kg stronger. The better lines of grown steers improved 8c and the bullocks 3c while the secondary lines eased 5c to 10c/kg with quality the issue.

Heavy weight grown heifers sold 17c/kg dearer.

Manufacturing steers eased 10c to 15c/kg.

FARM MACHINERY FOR SALE

Farm Sold.

Negotiable on Prices.

Phone: 0428 881 376

Prime Sale - Wednesday, February 22 BULLOCKS 16 D. & T. Pamment, Poowong 11 Deenja Pastoral Pty Ltd, Toora 1 P. Tulloch, Pakenham 8 M. Peterson

652.2kg 643.2kg 735.0kg 631.3kg

331.6 328.6 322.6 321.6

$2162.65 $2113.50 $2371.11 $2030.10

11 F. & B. Parini, Korumburra 10 M. & J. Forrester, Koorooman

730.5kg 321.6 $2349.14 623.0kg 320.6 $1997.34

STEERS 1 P. & L. Turton, Korumburra 1 G. & K. Hempel, Hiawatha 2 D. L. S. J. McNaughton, Korumburra 4 P. Van Heerwaarden, Bena 20 Hurstdale Pty Ltd, Tarwin 1 P. & L. Whiteside, Leongatha

360.0kg 370.0kg 380.0kg 360.0kg 527.0kg 370.0kg

360.0 354.6 350.0 346.6 339.6 336.6

$1296.00 $1312.02 $1330.00 $1247.76 $1789.69 $1245.42

HEIFERS 3 P. & L. Turton, Korumburra 1 P. Van Heerwaarden, Bena 1 B. Beckerleg, Wonthaggi 1 P. & L. Turton, Korumburra 1 E. McDonald, Berrys Creek 5 D. L. S. J. McNaughton, Korumburra

343.3kg 390.0kg 675.0kg 340.0kg 345.0kg 368.0kg

360.0 353.6 351.6 350.2 347.6 345.6

$1236.00 $1379.04 $2373.30 $1190.68 $1199.22 $1271.81

COWS 1 Melaleuca Pastoral, Meeniyan 9 R. & C. Donat, Wonthaggi 1 C. & C. Bye, Kilmany 1 E. McDonald, Berrys Creek 1 Melaleuca Pastoral, Meeniyan 1 J. Taylor & N. Taylor, Devon North

730.0kg 672.8kg 600.0kg 605.0kg 585.0kg 765.0kg

255.0 251.6 247.6 247.6 246.6 246.0

$1861.50 $1692.71 $1485.60 $1497.98 $1442.61 $1881.90

1065.0kg 865.0kg 935.0kg 1010.0kg 810.0kg 975.0kg

278.6 275.6 275.6 274.6 274.6 273.6

$2967.09 $2383.94 $2576.86 $2773.46 $2224.26 $2667.60

345.0kg 241.6

$833.52

BULLS 1 R. Best, Welshpool 1 M. & M. Jepson, Hallston 1 Future Plains, Kilmany 1 D. & P. Whiteley, Mirboo 1 Harris Farm, Dumbalk North 1 D. & H. Campbell, Mardan VEALER BULLS 1 E. McDonald, Berrys Creek

Look after best friends on hot days

By Dr Jeff Cave, district veterinary officer

CAS2940213

MF 6612 Dyna Tractor 535 hours with MF966 Loader, Bucket & Forks Hustler SL 700X Trailing Bale Feeder (near new) Hustler CXR Soft Hands, Euro Hitch (near new)

The more limited selection of heavy beef cows sold firm while the dairy cows which filled most cow pens sold from 4c to 10c/kg cheaper for all but the heavy well finished lots.

Heavy weight bulls sold 10c/kg dearer on most sales.

Heavy weight vealers suited to butchers sold from 329c to 360c/kg. Yearling heifers to the trade made between 295c and 337c/kg.

Grown steers sold between 289c and 340c/ kg. Bullocks made from 281c and 332c/kg. Heavy weight grown heifers showing good finish sold from 272c to 314c/kg. Heavy weight crossbred manufacturing steers made between 252c and 310c/kg.

Most light and medium weight cows sold between 165c and 220c/kg. Heavy weight cows made mostly from 195c to 255c/kg. Heavy weight C and B muscle bulls sold from 260c to 279c with the dairy lots from 240c to 266c/kg.

The next sale draw - March 1 & 2: 1. Elders, 2. Landmark, 3. Rodwells, 4. Alex Scott & Staff, 5. Phelan & Henderson & Co, 6. SEJ. Sheep sale Wednesday, March 8 at 12pm (fortnightly).

IF your dog regularly travels in the back of your ute, you need to take extra care to avoid exposing it to heat stress on very hot days.

Adequate shelter, for example a fixed canopy, needs to be provided to protect tethered dogs from climate extremes.

While it is legal to allow appropriately restrained

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dogs to travel on the back of utes, dogs left in the sun for long periods can easily suffer heat stress.

A lot of utes and tray backs these days are made of metal and will heat up quickly and could easily burn dogs’ paws, so consider covering the metal floors.

Ensure dogs kept in cages have adequate ventilation, particularly when the vehicle is not moving, and ensure all dogs are given regular access to cool water.

Victoria’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act requires dogs travelling in the back of utes, trailers or open tray trucks to be tethered or caged in a manner that prevents them from falling from the vehicle.

The only exemption is when dogs are actively moving stock.

The tether should only be long enough to permit the dog to stand, lie down and move about but not so long that it could potentially let the dog fall off the vehicle and be dragged or strangled.

Tethering dogs should always be regarded as a temporary, short term method of restraint.

For further advice please contact the RSPCA, your local veterinarian or Agriculture Victoria veterinary or animal health officer.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT EMMA FOAT ELD9240628

0456 939 815

Think ahead: working dogs need shelter from searing summer heat while on the farm.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 41

Farming Insight Teach milkers new tricks SOUTH Gippsland farmers wondering if they should attend upcoming Cups On Cups Off courses should listen to what a farmer from the other side of the region has to say.

Peter Jennings from Bruthen recently sent two of his employees to a course in Orbost and was taken aback by the results.

“I can’t believe how reinvigorated they are after this course,” he said.

“They now want to do things, not only properly, but even better than before. I can’t believe we had such a good result.”

GippsDairy’s Cups On Cups Off (COCO) courses, which will be held in Fish Creek during March and Leongatha in April, have one overriding goal: to help farmers and milking teams become better skilled in routine practices to manage milk quality and reduce the risk of mastitis.

Mastitis and milk quality affect the bottom line of all dairy farms, with every case of clinical mastitis costing at least $270 in treatment costs and lost milk.

COCO is a two-day training course delivered by the National Centre for Dairy Education (NCDE) and Countdown 2020 trained experts in mastitis and milk quality. It helps dairy farmers achieve best practice in milk harvesting, with the emphasis on the detection, treatment and prevention of clinical mastitis.

COCO covers the whole of the milking process including mastitis management and the roles of people in the dairy. The course is suitable for anyone on a dairy farm who milks cows - from farm owners, managers and sharefarmers to family members and farm employees.

This training has already helped many dairy farmers to reduce the spread of mastitis and lower the risk of clinical cases of mastitis in their herds.

Learn about: • how and why mastitis infections occur; • practical methods to detect and deal with mas-

Worthwhile course: GippsDairy is encouraging farmers to enrol their staff in Cups On Cups Off courses. titis; and adapting your milking process to reduce the risk of infection.

For Peter Jennings the course had the unexpected benefit of boosting enthusiasm and morale in the milking shed.

“The biggest surprise to me is that they now feel like they have a skill,” he said.

“They were already good milkers at detecting mastitis and things like that, but going to a professional course made them feel like they aren’t just milkers, they are skilled employees and that their skills are actually valued and appreciated.”

GippsDairy regional extension officer Louise Sundermann said statistics backed up Peter’s experience from the COCO course.

“Dairy Australia has done research that shows 90 •

percent of farms where mastitis was a major problem reported significant improvements after doing the COCO course,” she said.

“It’s a program that, using dairy service levy funds, puts knowledge and skills into the hands of farmers who can make a genuine difference to outcomes in the milking shed and to their bottom line.”

The Fish Creek course will be held on March 16 (Day 1) and March 23 (Day 2), with the Leongatha course on April 19 (Day 1) and April 26 (Day 2).

First day programs will run from 9.30am to 2.30pm with the second day from 10am to 1pm.

To register your interest in a Cups On Cups Off course contact Louise on 0428 573 909 or email louise@gippsdairy.com.au Courses cost $180, but dairy company subsidies may be available.

Mayor meets farmers

Is your town Legendairy?

THE South Gippsland branch of the Victoria Farmers Federation held a general meeting in Meeniyan recently, with guest speaker South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento.

AS a region that accounts for more than one fifth of Australia’s dairy production, dairy is a big part of life in Gippsland.

Former dairy farmer and chair of the branch, Cr Argento said he related to the issues raised at the meeting.

He said he spoke to the group about the new council and made a point that six of the nine sitting councillors have a close connection to the farming community.

“I spoke about the issues facing the agricultural industry and its contribution to the community and the shire as a whole,” he said.

“I let them know the door is always open for further conversation. Should anyone wish to come and speak at any time, I will make myself available to assist.”

Cr Argento said one of the ways council has supported local dairy farmers was to offer free family passes to the Korumburra and Foster shows, which was a well supported initiative.

“It was not a big thing for council, but it was for the families,” he said.

Branch president Gordon Vagg said Cr Meg Edwards also attended the meeting, as well as around 16 members.

Mr Vagg said he welcomed the chance to hear what council was doing to support the farming sector..

That is why Dairy Australia is calling on people across the Gippsland region to nominate their town as the next Legendairy Capital by sharing their stories and highlighting the way their town embodies the Legendairy spirit.

Launched in 2015, Dairy Australia’s Legendairy Capital program celebrates regional communities around the country by highlighting how dairy farmers contribute to their town, their industry and the Australian economy.

Dairy Australia program manager Suzi O’Dell said the program recognises the strength and resilience of hard-working communities and the vital role dairy farmers play in building the social fabric of their towns.

“Dairy farmers and people working across the dairy supply chain are at the heart of hundreds of Australian regional communities,” she said.

“In 2015 Meeniyan was named the Legendairy Capital of the Gippsland dairy region. Now we’re back on the road looking for the next capital of

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Gippsland.”

Locals from Australia’s eight dairy regions including Gippsland are encouraged to nominate their town for the prestigious title by sharing stories about what makes their town Legendairy.

One finalist from each of the eight regions will receive $2500 to invest in a community project and one of those towns will then go on to contest for the title of Australia’s Legendairy Capital 2017, receiving an additional $7500 to put towards their community project.

The Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) is supporting Dairy Australia on this program.

Chief executive of FRRR Natalie Egleton said, “Every day, farmers juggle the demands of their operations with the needs of the local community.”

“The Legendairy Capital program celebrates this commitment by pulling together as one, and finding ways to build robust communities that will endure and prosper.”

Nominations are open until 5pm April 10, 2017. For more information on the program, including details on how to nominate, visit www.

Legendairy.com.au/capital.

40 PERFORMANCE RECORDED BULLS AUTUMN BULL SALE FRIDAY MARCH 10 2017 @3PM ‘YANCOWINNA’, CAPE PATERSON VICTORIA

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PAGE 42 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

GIPPSLAND TRUCK MECHANICS

TRUCK DRIVER Ryans Transport is looking for a suitably qualified driver to join our team Mostly Monday to Friday, Leongatha – Melbourne work but some weekend and interstate may be required.

Must have MC licence and an excellent driving record Send your application to: tom@ryansbricks.com.au Or call Tom on 0409 613 664

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays public notice

situations vacant

public notice

Diesel Mechanic/Technician INVERLOCH

PROPERTY MANAGER Our Inverloch office is expanding rapidly and we wish to appoint a dynamic Property Manager to become a full time member of our progressive rental department.

You should possess excellent customer service and communication skills. Qualification and experience in property management preferred but not essential.

Proficient computer skills, the ability to multi-task, and a passion to grow the business are essential.

Excellent package and above award remuneration.

All enquiries strictly confidential.

APPLICATIONS BY EMAIL TO: Dennis Ginn 0412 317 360 Email: dennisginn@alexscott.com.au 7 a’Beckett Street, Inverloch, 3996

Our workshop is seeking a candidate who will enjoy the challenge of working in a busy and varied role.

• Relevant trade qualifications are essential.

• We are Dealers for Kenworth, DAF, Isuzu, Scania and Cummins thus previous experience working on Heavy Vehicles/Trucks/Buses, particularly American, European and Japanese brands, is necessary.

• Competency in fault diagnosing using computer systems would be valued.

• Working both independently and within a team environment is essential.

• In-house and factory training is ongoing.

• Remuneration is negotiable.

Please email resumé to: jobs@gtmleongatha.com.au no later than 10/3/17 16 Cusack Road, Leongatha - Ph: 5662 5266 www.gtmleongatha.com.au

LEONGATHA CEMETERY TRUST

FORM B SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT Pursuant to Section 52(1) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 The land affected by the application is located at: Korumburra-Wonthaggi Road, Kongwak VIC 3951 being L1 TP170819D Parish of Kongwak.

The application is for a permit to: Maintenance work for the Kongwak Avenue of Honour (Heritage Overlay 50) consisting of the removal, lopping and pruning of trees and replacement planting.

The applicant for the permit is: Kongwak Community Group.

The Application Reference Number is: 2016/364.

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority - South Gippsland Shire Council, Private Bag 4, 9 Smith Street, Leongatha 3953, Telephone: 5662 9200. This can be done during office hours (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm) and is free of charge.

Applications are also available to be viewed on Council's Website at www.southgippsland. vic.gov.au Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority. An objection must: • be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing • include the reasons for the objection and • state how the objector would be affected.

If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you its decision.

Privacy Notification: The responsible authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on this application before 14 days after the date of this Notice.

Submissions can be received after this date up until a decision is made.

Dated: 14.3.2017

situations vacant

TRUCK DRIVER REQUIRED

Experienced Truck & Dog Tipper driver CONTACT DAVE 0438 056 987

public notice NOTICE of Dissolution of Partnership.

Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 41 of the Partnership Act 1958 that the partnership between K.L. Bateman and R. Beasley in connection with the business Pilot Press is now dissolved by mutual consent. R. Beasley has withdrawn from the partnership and is no longer associated in the conduct of the said business and K.L. Bateman will conduct the said business hereafter and has assumed ownership and responsibility of the business.

The partnership was dissolved as of February 28, 2017.

public notice

situations vacant PART TIME MILKER WANTED TO WORK ON A 300 COW DAIRY FARM The person must be able to work on their own.

SOME WEEKEND WORK REQUIRED Experience preferred Buffalo area

Phone 0407 807 082

public notice

VINTAGE TRACTOR PULL LONGFORD RECREATION RESERVE SUNDAY, MARCH 5 10am Enq: 9758 9049

public notice

TARWIN LOWER CEMETERY TRUST The Tarwin Lower Cemetery Trust is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified members of the community who would be interested in serving on the trust.

Cemetery trust members are appointed by the Governor in Council and are responsible to the Minister for Health for the proper and efficient management of public cemeteries under the control of the trust.

The appointment to the Tarwin Lower Cemetery Trust is honorary and will be for a term of up to 5 years. Current and previous cemetery trust members may apply for reappointment as part of a competitive selection process.

To register your interest please contact the Tarwin Lower Cemetery Trust by telephoning 5663 5256 within two weeks of the date of this advertisement.

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the composition of the Victorian community.

This includes appropriate representation of women, regional Victorians, Aboriginal people, young Victorians, Victoria’s culturally diverse community, the LGBTI community and Victorians with a disability.

ZO740166O

ZO740165G

The Leongatha Cemetery Trust is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified members of the community who would be interested in serving on the trust.

Cemetery trust members are appointed by the Governor in Council and are responsible to the Minister for Health for the proper and efficient management of public cemeteries under the control of the trust.

The appointment to the Leongatha Cemetery Trust is honorary and will be for a term of up to 5 years. Current and previous cemetery trust members may apply for reappointment as part of a competitive selection process.

To register your interest please contact the Leongatha Cemetery Trust by telephoning the Secretary on 5662 4620 within two weeks of the date of this advertisement.

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the composition of the Victorian community.

This includes appropriate representation of women, regional Victorians, Aboriginal people, young Victorians, Victoria’s culturally diverse community, the LGBTI community and Victorians with a disability.

JOINERY SALESPERSON Capeview is the leading manufacturer and installer of joinery in South Gippsland and Phillip Island. Due to continued growth we require the services of a salesperson to join our team.

Working with existing clients and sourcing new the role requires a person who can work through to process from enquiry to providing details for manufacture.

The preferred candidate will need to demonstrate: • Outstanding communication skills & customer service • Ability to prepare initial layouts for quotation purposes from a client’s brief • Good liaison skills when working with design team to produce finished drawings for clients • Good computer skills are required • Knowledge of joinery materials and accessories would be an advantage • Valid driver’s licence required The successful applicant will enjoy an attractive salary, a good working environment and the opportunity to undertake ongoing training and career development.

All applications must be in writing, with CV & cover letter addressed to: Peter Sheerin Capeview Building Products PO Box 115 Wonthaggi VIC 3995 Or email peter.sheerin@cv-bp.com.au Closing Date for Applications – Friday, March 3rd 2017

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 43

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for sale

MOWERS

Maintenance Technician Civil Networks Chief Exam Supervisor Leongatha Secondary College is seeking to appoint a Chief Exam Supervisor responsible for the conduct of VCE Exams and the General Achievement Test (GAT).

In 2017 the GAT will be held on Wednesday, June 14 while the November Exam Period runs from November, Wednesday 1 – Friday, November 24, 2017.

A training day for new Chief Supervisors will also be provided in May. For further information and a position description please contact the College Principal Wayne Chester, phone: 5662 4333 Email: wchester@leonsec.vic.edu.au

South Gippsland Water is an equal opportunity employer committed to developing a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with respect and feel valued and supported.

Reporting to the Maintenance Team Leader, the Maintenance Technician is responsible for undertaking identified civil network based maintenance work across South Gippsland Water to optimise the performance of our assets, meet key performance indicators safely, and to provide excellent customer service. The Corporation seeks individuals with knowledge or capability in the delivery of operations, maintenance or construction activities associated with pipeline, pumping, drainage or civil infrastructure.

A trade background will be highly regarded.

The position is ideally full time, for a one year fixed period with the possibility of extension. The position is primarily based in Toora/Leongatha area with a requirement to travel across the service area.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit www.sgwater.com.au for a copy of the Position Description and for a full outline of the application process.

Please contact Lee Hamilton on 03 5682 0403 for enquiries relating to employment at South Gippsland Water, or Greg Baud on 03 5682 0440 for specific information on this role.

Applications close Monday 13th March 2017 at 9:00 am.

We stock the largest range of New push and ride-on mowers in South Gippsland, including - Honda,Victa, Greenfield, Deutscher, Cub Cadet, MTD, Masport, Toro, Yard Machines & Rover from $149.

Professional repairs and service for ALL mower makes and models.

Also stocking a large range of parts and accessories.

We also have a large range of secondhand mowers available.

MOTORCYCLES & POWER EQUIPMENT

Cnr Allison & South Gippsland Hwy, Leongatha. L.M.C.T. 2714

Ph: 5662 2028

www.marriottsmpe.com.au

CARAVAN Royal Flair, 2005, double island bed, RC air conditioner, rollout awning, all in good order. Ph: 5668-6202.

Donna Faulkner CEO of Work Solutions Gippsland: Do you have a Disability?

Are you keen to work?

Subject to eligibility, Work Solutions Gippsland (WSG) can offer you a free service to help you find and keep a job at award wages or better.

Last year WSG found almost 400 jobs for people with disabilities throughout Gippsland.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Call 1300 974 669 (1300 WSG NOW) and ask for Robyn

Occupational Therapist Grade 1 Full-Time position to commence ASAP

Chemical Standards Officer – South East • • • •

FIREWOOD - local messmate/stringy bark, cut, split, dry. Discounts on bulk loads. Free delivery available. Pick up or delivered. $100 per cubic metre. Ph: 0437-176187.

$56,361 - $77, 259 (Plus Superannuation) Fixed Term (until 24 October 2017) Usual hours of work: Full Time (flexibility may be available) Usual work location: Negotiable in the South East Region (flexibility may be available)

The position of Chemical Standards Officer forms a part of the Plants, Chemicals and Invasives Branch in Agriculture Services and Biosecurity Operations Division within Agriculture and Resources Group.

LG WASHING machine, 5.5kg, as new, $450. Ph: 0437-610223.

The Agriculture and Resources Group works with industry, primary producers, urban and regional communities to improve liveability and drive sustainable economic growth in the food and fibre, natural resources and energy sectors.

OLD PORT POULTRY FARM Delivering 20 week old Isa Brown laying hens to your area on Sunday, March 12, $21 each. 0438832535.

The Chemical Standards Officer will deliver Chemical Standards Field Service projects and activities throughout the South East region, and potentially across the State. Service delivery will focus on chemical risk reduction in agriculture and horticulture through residues management and regulatory activities.

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200 x 50 x 2.4 $12.10 each, 200 x 75 x 2.4 $16.75 each, 200 x 75 x 3.0 $ 20.90 each.

Free delivery for pack lots. Phone Joe 0417530662.

The position performs a key role within the Agriculture Services and Biosecurity Operations Division, assisting with response to Control of Use issues, and the development and implementation of AgVet chemicals control of use sub-projects.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Grade 1 Occupational Therapist to join our team at Bass Coast Health. The team provides a range of services to acute, sub-acute, aged care, community rehabilitation, outpatient and homebased clients.

You will demonstrate: • High quality assessment and treatment skills • Well-developed communication skills • A commitment to person-centred care and evidence based practice • Registration with AHPRA • Current Driver’s licence • Current police check For further information please contact Anthea Donohue on 5671 3343.

Applications, addressing the key selection criteria and including a cover Letter and 2 professional referrees should be addressed to Pat Grasby, Human Resources Email: pat.grasby@basscoasthealth.org.au.

You will support a number of control of use audit-projects within the Plants, Chemicals and Invasive Species Program. Under the direction of the Biosecurity Manager, Plants and Chemicals, you will assist in providing regulatory, extension and advisory services to AgVet chemical users; focussed on, but not limited to, the agricultural and horticultural industries across the Northern region.

Applications close 12 noon on Tuesday 14 March 2017

Successful candidates will be required to undergo a National Police Records Check prior to commencing employment with the Department.

SMALL square bales, $7. Ph: 0417-563033.

TIMBER Kiln dried blackwood, silver wattle, cypress, celery top pine, most sizes for furniture and craft, also slabs and structural pine. Ph: 5681-2261.

The position will maintain working relationships with AgVet chemical use stakeholders, including regional representative organisations for agricultural and horticultural industries, and local government officers responsible for managing AgVet chemical use issues in peri-urban areas.

The position will assist with the coordination of complex community engagement associated with chemical use in peri-urban areas.

free FIREWOOD - standing green. Need 4WD and chainsaw. Ph: 56689292.

To be successful in this role you should have experience and knowledge of Victorian agriculture and horticulture industries and chemical use issues affecting these industries.

An appropriate tertiary degree in Science, Agricultural Science or an equivalent science qualification is mandatory for this role.

garage sales

For a confidential discussion, please call Chelsea Vercoe, Biosecurity Manager, Plants and Chemicals on 5366 0020.

For further information on the position, including a position description, and to apply please visit www.careers.vic.gov.au and refer to VG/020195C Applications close 12 March 2017.

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

FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408980-711, A/H 56625175.

www.economicdevelopment.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Spring Street, Melbourne

GARAGE SALE ZO730042

AN INVITATION FROM

COGAN 55” smart coloured television. As new condition, $400.

Ph: 5674-1789 or 0418319623.

23 Gillick Road Fish Creek SATURDAY MARCH 4 9am to 4pm Household goods etc.

garage sales

livestock

CLEARING SALE and Garage Sale, Saturday, March 4, strictly 9am, 323 Inverloch Venus Bay Road, Inverloch. Fergy bits, household items, tools and accessories.

More info 0407-267561.

BLACK FACED Suffolk rams, 7 months, ready to work, 6 available, priced from $400. Wild Dog Valley Suffolks, 5668-9209.

INVERLOCH - Streeton Court, Saturday, March 4, 8am.

WOOREEN 260 Wooreen-Mirboo Road, just past Mossvale Park, Sunday, March 5, 9-2.

GARAGE SALE SATURDAY & SUNDAY March 4 & 5 9am - 3pm 20 Church Street LEONGATHA No early birds Toys, household goods, some tools, furniture, etc.

GARAGE SALE The “STAR” can help you promote your event with our

$27.50 GARAGE SALE KIT KIT INCLUDES 5cm x S/C advert (valued at $33.00) • 2 x A4 Garage Sale Signs • Garage Sale Tips (dos and don’ts) • Sheet of Price Stickers • Star Carry Bag

BULLS for hire or for sale. Friesian, Angus, Hereford, Limo or Jersey. All sound young bulls. Hire or sale. Phone 0447-331762.

lost LOST DOG - Indy, 6 month old female, tan and white Jack Russell. Lost Thursday afternoon, February 23 from Bass Highway, Inverloch.

Reward.

Ph: 5606-8326, 0468862685.

wanted CARS WANTED - Cash for cars - call Rob. Ph: 0419-218277.

wanted to buy ANY OLD farm four wheelers, good or bad, 4WDs or trucks. Will pay cash. Phone Matt 0401194601.

Email your adverts to The Star ads@thestar.com.au

marriage celebrant

Jenny Milkins

Total package valued at $41

All areas - 5672 3123 jenny_milkins@hotmail.com

ADVERTISE by calling 5662 5555 or emailing classifieds@thestar.com.au or call in to 36 McCartin Street LEONGATHA to pick up your kit when you place your advertisement

PAM HERRALD 5662 2553 0438 097 181

Wendy Rutjens

Weddings ~ Funerals ~ Namings

0429 688 123 e: rutjenswendy@gmail.com

engagements meetings

General Meeting A General Meeting will be held at the Korumburra RSL Sub Branch Hall in Mine Road on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 All members and any interested parties are welcome to attend.

The meeting will start at 7.30pm Kevin Moon - President 5655 1545

birthdays

KERSHAW - THOMAS We are pleased to announce the engagement of Tayla and Ben. With love from their families.

in memoriam In memory of MURRAY - John R. 27.2.2014 Thinking of you today, tomorrow and always.

With much love, Gail xo.

birthdays

Kelly - Robert James 3/3/1977

Happy 40th Birthday to you!

May your 40th Birthday be as fabulous as you are!

You are a son, brother, husband, father, uncle, nephew, son-in-law, brother-in-law, cousin and friend to your families. You fulfill each role with your cheeky sense of humour, kindness and care.

Thank you for adding a dash of posititivey, a touch of passion, a pinch of wisdom, and a sprinkle of inspiration to Lylah, Cooper, and my life every day.

We are so very proud of you with your absolute resillience, hard work and never give up ever attitude.

Life's milestones are not supposed to be counted, they're supposed to be celebrated!

Here's to you and your special day.

Love always your wife Corinne, Lylah, and Cooper xxxx

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

bereavement thanks

deaths

LOVE - Heather Mary.

Glenda, Allan, Lindsay, Virginia and families sincerely thank relatives and friends for your kind expressions of sympathy, cards, flowers, phone calls and visits.

Thanks also to Ray Sullivan of Handley Funeral Services and Wendy Rutjens for your help and support. Also our heartfelt thanks to all at Woorayl Lodge, Leongatha.

TUFF Graeme Desmond.

5.11.42 - 26.2.17 Loving husband of Lorna.

Loved father, father-inlaw and poppy of Natalie, Brad, Stephen, Laura, Kinesha, Mackenna and baby Tuff.

Check the Herald Sun for funeral arrangements.

TUFF - Graeme.

Loved and respected brother-in-law of Peter and Wilma, Ken and Julie, Richard and Jenny (dec), Noel and Annie, and their families.

Our deepest sympathy to our dear sister Lorna, Natalie and Brad, Stephen and Laura, and their families.

Rest peacefully Tuffie.

Please accept this as our personal thank you to you all.

STEVENS - I have been overwhelmed by the loving concern of this community since the death of my lovely Howard. There have been so many cards, personal greetings, flowers and gifts. I have been particularly touched by comments by past students and their families.

I am so grateful for the care given by Dr Hugh Chisholm and the nursing, kitchen and palliative care staff at GSHS. Finally thank you to my brothers and sisters at St Peter’s Church.

Their love has shone God’s light on my path.

Please accept this as my personal thanks.

funerals KERR - A funeral service to celebrate the life of Peter Ronald Kerr will be held at the Salvation Army Corps Hall, Long Street, Leongatha on Friday, March 3, 2017 commencing at 11am.

Following light refreshments, a service for burial will be held at the Leongatha Lawn Cemetery.

All ex-service personnel are respectfully invited to attend.

Lucy Stevens.

deaths BULL - Miss (Jenkins) Roma.

Fondest memories of a favourite teacher.

Sympathies to family and friends.

Class of ‘54 Leongatha High.

HEYWOOD (Hendy) Ruby June.

15.5.1923 to 19.2.2017 Dearly loved mum of Lorraine and Bernie Holtschke, wonderful grandma to Paul, Annette, Angie and Aleesa, loved great grandma of Jayden, Holly, Abby, Zoey, Kate, Alex, Harrison and Campbell.

So sadly missed by all of us.

Rest in peace Mum. KERR - Peter Ronald.

Passed away peacefully at Leongatha Hospital on February 24, 2017 aged 89 years.

Loving husband of Shirley (dec) and father of Peter, Vicki and Tanya.

Adored Pa of six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Sadly missed.

Now making wheelbarrows in Heaven.

PARKS - Mavis.

Passed away peacefully at Rose Lodge, Wonthaggi on February 21, 2017 aged 92 years.

Much loved mother of Trevor and Adelyn Joy. Grandmother of David and Coralie Parks, Andrea and Stuart Curtis.

Loved great nan of Claire, Emma, Angus, India and Archer.

Loved and remembered always.

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

deaths

Tevuro wows at championships LAST weekend, 28 athletes from the Wonthaggi Little Athletics Club journeyed to Berwick to compete in the Gippsland Country Region Track and Field Championships.

It was a hugely successful weekend for the club, coming away with a swag of medals and some outstanding performances.

The athletes recorded a total of 52 personal best for the meet and five athletes broke club records.

Tevuro Ihomana Montgomery impressed once again in the javelin and 60m hurdles, breaking not only the Wonthaggi Club records for both events but also setting new regional records for the Gippsland region.

She threw 31.11 in the javelin and ran a fast time of 9.70 in the 60m hurdles claiming gold medals in both events.

Tyler Duell (U9B) performed well in his first big competition, breaking a Wonthaggi Club record

in the 700m walk with a time of 5:27.16, to claim bronze.

Abigail McCulloch (U12G) also broke a club record in the walks in a time of 9:24.14 for the longer 1500m event, taking gold.

Rachel Aitken won a silver medal and broke the Under 15 Girls high jump record with a jump of 1.53m.

Sandra Gray also won silver and broke the 200m hurdles club record with a time of 34.13 seconds.

The club’s medal winning performances were as follows: Under 9 Boys: Harvey Smith 3rd Shot Put; Tyler Duell 3rd 700m walk Under 10 Boys: Archie Terlich 1st 1100m walk, 1st 60m Hurdles, 2nd Discus, 3rd 200m.

Under 11 Boys: James Lewis 3rd 400m.

Under 12 Boys: Ashton Hewitson, 2nd Javelin, 3rd Triple Jump; Saher Biggs 2nd Discus.

Under 13 Boys: Tyler Butcher 1st High Jump, 1st Long jump, 1st Triple Jump; Jacob Timmermans

2nd 1500m, 2nd Long Jump.

Under 10 Girls: Baia Pugh 1st 800m, 2nd 200m, 2nd 400m; Ella Smith 1st Shot Put, 2nd Discus.

Under 12 Girls: Tevuro Ihomana Montgomery 1st Javelin, 1st 60m Hurdles, 2nd 100m; Laetitia Pugh

Impressive: Baia Pugh (U10G) at the start of her medal winning performance in the 800m.

Challengers still wanted at Leongatha table tennis LEONGATHA is still looking for table tennis players, as to date few have come forward.

The hit up nights have been very successful and it is pleasing to see that there will be enough players to have three grades this

deaths

Paul & Margaret Beck Proprietors

Caring for our Community, personal dignified service to all areas 5662 2717

year.

More players are always welcome.

There are practice nights again on Tuesday, February 28, from 5pm for B Grades and juniors, and at 7pm A Grade will have another practice.

On Wednesday night at 7pm the A Reserve Grade will practice.

A Reserve had a fun night of Top Table singles and doubles last Wednesday that was enjoyed by all.

Competition will start on Tuesday March 7, for A Grade, A Reserve Grade and B Grade.

The club is very pleased to welcome the South Gippsland Specialist School students who are going to have a regular session of table tennis on Thursday afternoons.

They have already

had a few games and are enjoying it immensely.

The club is also happy that the Mary Mackillop students are returning for their regular sessions this year. They are developing some very good players.

The KeenAgers social days on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9am have been very well attended over the past month, enjoying the cooler February weather.

The coffee break at 10am is very popular.

Everyone is welcome to attend these sessions.

The club e-mail is leongathatt@hotmail. com or contact Michael Holwerda 0429 641 354 or Kevin Dowling 5662 5578.

You can also visit the Leongatha Table Tennis Facebook page.

Pre-need Funeral Plans available Office and Chapel: 24 Anderson Street, Leongatha hfs1@vic.australis.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

Scott and Sharon Anderson With care & dignity we serve South Gippsland and Phillip Island Main Office: WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH 5672 1074 176-178 Graham Street, Wonthaggi 3995 Fax: 5672 1747 email: randm33@bigpond.net.au PHILLIP ISLAND 5952 5171 15 Warley Avenue, Cowes 3922 (by appointment only) Pre-paid & pre-arranged funeral plans available CARING & PERSONAL 24 HOUR SERVICE www.handleyandandersonfunerals.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

In action: students from the South Gippsland Specialist School take on the table tennis challenge.

Table tennis thriving WONTHAGGI Junior Table Tennis is booming.

New players (8-15 years) are always welcome on Thursdays from 6 pm at Wonthaggi Table Tennis Centre.

New adult players always welcome too on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Phone 5672 2130 or 5674 4628 for more details.

Wonthaggi Association Veteran and junior players competed successfully in the Victorian closed Championships in Melbourne on the weekend.

3rd 1500m; Maya Fraser 2nd javelin, 2nd Discus; Abi McCulloch 1st 1500m, 1st 1500m walk, 2nd 800m.

Under 13 Girls; Sandra Gray 2nd 200m hurdles, 3rd High Jump, 3rd Long Jump.

Under 14 Girls: Nicola

Slade 1st High Jump, 3rd 200m, 3rd Long Jump Under 15 Girls: Rachel Aitken 2nd High Jump.

As the season nears its end, this week saw 71 athletes run, jump and throw their best at Wonthaggi Little Athletics Club. Hay-

den Purton broke the Under 6 Boys 300m record in a time of 1:15.31.

Camryn McKenzie Broke the Under 9 Girls 700m record clocking 3:02.70.

Next week’s meet is the last local competition for the year.

Centre record holders: back from left, Paul McKeown U15B, Georgia Burns U13B, Xavier Bolge U11B, front from left, Lincoln Hamilton U10B, Anika Edwards U6G and Ella White U7G were awarded for their efforts at little athletics on Saturday. It was a beautiful day for athletics with 246 personal bests achieved.

Georgia breaks records TWENTY-SIX athletes from Leongatha Little Athletics made their way to Edwin Flack Reserve at Berwick to compete in the Gippsland Region Track and Field Championships recently.

Athletes were able to participate in up to four chosen events. The weather was cold and blustery, not the weather we are used to in February, and was quite challenging.

Despite the weather, all athletes participated very well with many per-

sonal bests, placings, progressions to State Championships, and a Gippsland Region record.

Georgia Burns broke the Gippsland Region record in the 800 metres in a time of 2:27.73 minutes.

Thirteen athletes will progress to the State Championships on March 11 and 12 at Lakeside Stadium.

These athletes are: Isaac Bolge, Xavier Bolge, Georgia Burns, Autumn Crimp, Kiara McJames-Court, Paul McKeown, Rebecca McKeown, Jack McNaughton, Jasper Shone, Ella Snell, Clancy Snell, Meaghan Stothart and Jasmine Woods.

C Grade cricket report Division 1 MDU’s Tim Bright opened the game with a solid 30 runs, followed by MDU captain Dale Thomas who made an excellent 32 runs.

Although defeated by Phillip Island’s 8/250, MDU gave it their all scoring 7/161. Phillip Island’s Peter Francis claimed 4/11 from his 10 overs which wasn’t a bad effort on his behalf.

Inverloch’s Darren Charkley finished off the innings on a high note with 42 runs before being caught out by Nerrena’s Shem Murphy.

Ryan Bradley was Nerrena’s stand out bowler claiming 1/7.

It was no surprise when Nerrena’s 9/203 runs smashed out Inverloch’s 99 at the end of their 37.5 overs.

Korumburra’s Peter Churchill added a decent 57 runs to their final score without going out.

Best bowler for Club was Mark Dobbie 2/20.

Korumburra was all out for 7/138 after their 40 overs.

Club’s Joel Brann was absolutely outstanding last Saturday scoring 61 runs not out against Korumburra.

Jack Sheerin also had a huge impact on Club’s win, making 39 runs.

Club gladly ended the innings with 5/147 after only 29 overs.

OMK’s David Jeffries was unfortunately caught out by bowler Matthew Luscombe after 40 runs on Saturday’s round two match against Town.

John Pouw took 3/54 after 17 overs for Town.

Town’s Davern Goss made two clear catches during the innings.

OMK celebrated their win after scoring 140 after 49.2 overs.

Division 2 IT was an obvious win for Kilcunda Bass on Saturday against Town.

Anthony Hanily was the best runner

on the field for Town last Saturday, making 37 runs before being caught out by Kilcunda Bass’s Ryley Duff.

Cameron Dowling wasn’t far behind Hanily with 23 runs made during the innings.

Pasquale De Rubeis took 3/11 off only 10 overs for Kilcunda Bass adding to their win.

Duff also took 3/2 off 6 overs.

Town unfortunately only scored 109 runs in the end, losing to Kilcunda Bass’s 3/216 runs.

Aiden Johnson opened the innings for Poowong Loch with 20 runs not out, followed by champion Neil Hancock who made 57 runs against Korumburra.

Korumburra’s Robert Francis took 3/18 after just 6 overs.

Poowong Loch was all out for 9/140 after 60 overs, losing to Korumburra’s 9/143.

Koonwarra couldn’t be more proud after Saturday’s game against Glen Alvie.

The team couldn’t have done it without Alex Stanley, who made his maiden century on the weekend.

Koonwarra ended its innings with a grand score of 8/237 runs, defeating Glen Alvie 7/224.

Darcy Hale took 3/59 and Jarrod Newsome 2/32 for Glen Alvie.

It was an easy battle for OMK during Saturday’s match against Wonthaggi Workmens.

Donald Wylie opened the innings with 75 runs before retiring.

The team continued to add runs to the score after that first success.

Sam Matthews made 55 runs and Michael Whiteside made 28.

OMK finished off with 248 runs all together after 69 overs, defeating Workmens 146.

Kaidyn Dudley took 3/34 for Wonthaggi Workmens.

Phillip Island had a bye.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 45

| SPORT

thestar.com.au

Allambee Mirboo & District tennis INVERLOCH was the big winner against Leongatha in Section 1 on Saturday.

Well done to Leongatha keeping to the task against the top teams.

In Section 2 it was a close game between Koonwarra and Leongatha North, with Koonwarra winning by a game. Good to see Sarah Sauvarin back playing and winning a set with Warren Littlejohn.

Baromi won against Korumburra. Korumburra has been winning sets against the top teams, so this is good for the club.

Koonwarra was the big winner over Leongatha Green. The win has Koonwarra now in second spot by four with a round to play.

Well done to Leongatha Gold winning one and two ladies sets, two and three men’s and the second mixed. A good effort by the younger players.

Outtrim won the match.

Hallston was pleased with its match only winning three sets, losing three tiebreakers but winning by a game. Berrys Creek is on top of the ladder, so a good game by all.

In Section 3 Baromi won well against Hawks.

Baromi with experienced players helped the team to take the points.

Mardan was the winner over the Eagles. Sam Bainbridge won his sin-

gles, which was the only set won by the Eagles.

Next week is the last round before the finals.

There will be no play for all sections over the long weekend in March.

Be sure to have players qualified for finals.

This season semi finals are 1v4 and 2v3, with the winners to play off in the grand finals.

Results Section 1: Koonwarra 5.51 d Leongatha North 4.50, Inverloch 9.72 d Leongatha 0.19, Phillip Island - bye.

Section 2: Koonwarra 9.72 d Leongatha Green 0.38, Hallston 3.59 d Berrys Creek 6.58, Baromi 7.69 d Korumburra 2.50, Outtrim 6.66 d Leongatha Gold 3.45.

Section 3: Baromi 5.47 d Hawks 2.33, Mardan 6.47 d Eagles 1.27, Parrots - bye.

• Tennis

Locals impress at country week MORE than 100 players from Inverloch, Leongatha, Korumburra, Phillip Island, Wonthaggi and Allambee districts competed in this year’s Victorian Country Tennis Association country week event.

The event was held at the Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club from February 13 to 17.

The weather was kind and many teams had some great success on the permanent and temporary grass courts. Well done to all players on their efforts for the week.

Congratulations to the following teams on their grand final result: Women’s C6 premiers: Wonthaggi-Inverloch; women’s C2 premiers –

Allambee representatives: stars from Allambee and district participated in the Victorian Country Tennis Association’s country week recently.

Wonthaggi; women’s B Special 2 runners up: Inverloch; men’s B1 runners up: Allambee Father and Son; men’s B2 premiers –

Leongatha Lifesavers.

Allambee-Leongatha Tennis would like to thank its supporters, Leongatha RSL, SAFE Scaffolding,

Rivalry is fierce

Section 1 Phillip Island......................134.5 Inverloch ............................128.5 Koonwarra ...........................79.0 Leongatha North .................77.0 Leongatha..............................64.0 Section 2 Berrys Creek......................143.5 Koonwarra .........................132.5 Baromi ................................128.5 Outtrim ..............................128.0 Hallston ............................... 111.0 Korumburra ...........................53.5 Leongatha Gold.....................50.0 Leongatha Green ...................36.5 Section 3 Baromi ................................100.5 Parrots ..................................96.0 Mardan.................................80.5 Hawks ...................................67.5 Eagles ....................................57.0

IT was a perfect morning for tennis at the Leongatha courts and wonderful to see so many people there supporting the children for the semi finals.

A Grade First semi final: Leongatha North vs WawrinkaLeongatha There were a lot of close sets in this match but the team from Leongatha North were too strong for Wawrinka-Leongatha.

Leongatha North 6 sets, 36 games defeated Wawrinka-Leongatha 0 sets, 20 games.

Second semi final: Mardan vs Fish Creek Mardan were too strong for Fish Creek winning both the doubles then winning the first three singles sets. Fish Creek kept fighting and won the last singles set but the result was already decided.

Mardan 5 sets, 33 games defeated Fish Creek 1 sets, 15 games.

The grand final will be Leongatha North vs Mardan.

B Grade First semi final - Fish Creek vs Barty-Leongatha The Fish Creek team that finished on top of the ladder were just too strong for the fourth placed BartyLeongatha and have easily progressed to the grand final this Saturday.

Fish Creek 6 sets, 36

games defeated Barty-Leongatha 0 sets, 4 games.

Second semi final - Mardan vs Federer-Leongatha The match of the day with Federer-Leongatha winning both the doubles but Mardan fighting back, winning the first and second singles sets.

It came down to the last set with Mardan needing to win but Federer-Leongatha took the set and the match.

Federer-Leongatha 4 sets, 29 games defeated Mardan 2 sets, 24 games.

The grand final will be Fish Creek vs Federer-Leongatha.

C Grade First semi final - Fish Creek vs Tomic-Leongatha The Fish Creek team haven’t lost all year and that continued on Saturday when they were too strong and experienced for the young team from Tomic-Leongatha.

Fish Creek 5 sets, 27 games defeated Tomic-Leongatha 1 sets, 10 games.

Second semi final - Murray-Leongatha vs Mardan Another close match with either team winning a doubles set but Murray-Leongatha taking three of the four singles sets.

Murray-Leongatha 4 sets, 22 games defeated Mardan 2 sets, 16 games.

The grand final will be Fish Creek vs Murray-Leongatha.

All grand finals will be at the Mirboo North tennis courts this Saturday.

Victorian Country Tennis Association with the competition being handed over to Tennis Victoria.

• Croquet

Ladders

WEEK three of the twilight competition did not disappoint with some very strong rivalry throughout the night.

Allister and Cameron from ‘Sandra’s Boys’ and Wendy and Brenda from the ‘RSL’ team went head to head with some great croquet shots.

It came down to the wire, neither team had lost a game up until then and the girls won out in the end.

All teams have been playing some great shots and many players are defying the fact that they have not played before.

Next Monday is the final night and it’s shaping up to be a very close call to decide the winner.

Anyone wishing to come and try our great game is welcome to come along on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons at 1pm, please wear flat soled shoes and use of equipment and coaching is free.

Mirboo North and District Junior Tennis Association Results from semi finals (February 25):

Harleys Bus Lines, Fish Creek Hotel and MJA Accounting.

This year’s event will be the last held by the

Tough competition: Brenda Hocken, Wendy Wyhoon (RSL), and Cameron and Allister Dowling (Sandra’s Boys) were discussing play during the twilight competition.

Leongatha preps for tennis championships THE Leongatha Tennis Club will be holding its annual Senior Club Championships event this Sunday (March 5) at 10am.

An excellent day’s tennis is assured with singles, doubles and mixed events being played in a number of grades to cater for all standards.

The Leongatha Tennis Club strongly encourages ladies to participate to have a strong ladies event.

The championships are open to all Leongatha Tennis Club members and a small entry fee is required to cover the costs.

For members who are keen to do a bit extra for the club, there is a working bee that will be held at 8am to fix a number of projects around the club. All members are encouraged to attend.

The club is looking forward to a great day and a big turnout.

Team effort: Wonthaggi Power will be well represented at the Keeping Kids on Track fun run this year.

The Thirds and Fourths boys are pictured having a run with event organiser Deb Rielly.

Local clubs support youth LOCAL sporting clubs are encouraged to get involved with the Keeping Kids on Track fun run to be held this Sunday.

Now in its sixth year, the run takes place along the Bass Coast Rail Trail in Kilcunda.

A club challenge will be held this year. If clubs enter more than 10 mem-

bers in the challenge, the club will go in the draw to win $500.

Wonthaggi Power, Tarwin, Leongatha and Inverloch Football Netball Clubs have already put their hands up to participate.

All clubs who volunteer their time will also receive a donation.

“It’s a great opportunity to support youth and show your club pride,” organiser Deb Rielly said.

Scholarships relating to education,

recreation and sport have also been developed for the fun run. Teachers and parents are encouraged to email in their stories about youth being active and excelling in sport to give a young athlete the chance to pick up a scholarship.

Participants can choose to either run or walk during the event.

Register individually or as a team at www.kkot.org.au.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

SPORT | BOWLS

thestar.com.au

• SGBD Tuesday pennant grand finals

Leongatha breaks 35 year drought A TWELVE shot win over Inverloch broke Leongatha’s 35 year premiership drought in the Division 1 Tuesday pennant bowls last week.

The thrilling match was played at Korumburra. Leongatha were the underdogs, as

Inverloch had finished on top of the ladder at the end of the home and away season.

“It’s been a great year and to have won all three rinks was just fantastic,” Leongatha skip Marj Pearson said.

Leongatha bowler Trish McCormack said the grand final match was an exciting one, going right down to the wire.

“We can’t believe it. It was

such a good game and we are feeling terrific,” she said.

Port Welshpool celebrated a win in Division 2 over Tarwin Lower. Mirboo North took out Division 3 against Leongatha and Inverloch had a win in Division 4 over Corinella.

All four divisions were played at Korumburra on an extremely well presented synthetic surface.

The 2016/17 season has been the most successful for the Leongatha Bowling Club since its inception with all five pennant teams (Tuesday and Saturday) reaching the finals.

The results are as follows: Division 1: Leongatha16/70 (12 shots) defeated Inverloch -/58 (R. James 23 defeated C. Hughes 17; J. Miller 26 defeated L. Dowson 25 – M. Pearson

21 defeated A. Tschiderer 16.)

Division 1 pennant winners 2016/17: Leongatha.

Division 2: Port Welshpool 14/79(12 shots) defeated Tarwin Lower 2/67 (L. McLaine 28 defeated S. Browne 13; B. Crawford 31 defeated H. Marshall 26– M. McDonald 20 lost to H. Twite 28)

Division 2 pennant winners 2016/17: Port Welshpool.

Division 3: Mirboo North 12/68 (6 shots) defeated Leongatha 4/62 (A. Plowman 28 defeated B. Thompson13; M. Briscoe 16 lost to M. Rayson 22 – D. Stein 24 lost to M. Jepson 27.)

Division 3 pennant winners

2016/17: Mirboo North.

Division 4: Inverloch 12/51 (11 shots) defeated Corinella 2/40 (V. Muir 31 defeated H. Fox 13; M. Paynting 20 lost to P. Scammell 27) Division 4 pennant winners 2016/17: Inverloch.

Premiers: Bob Constantine, Milton Heywood, Rob Grylls, Rob Knight, Rob Mortlock, Andy Kerr, Robin McKenzie, Cliff McGannon, Tim McLean, Dave Christie, Brian O’Keefe and Bruce Cooper of the Fish Creek Saturday pennant team won the Division 2 grand final against San Remo.

Team effort: from left, Leongatha’s Marj Pearson, Leonie Hanks, Elaine White, Joy Todd, Jenny Miller, Angela Hackett, Sue Symmons, Liz Beale, Gwen Williams, Trish McCormack, Rosa James and Glenda Trotman celebrated an exciting win in Division 1.

Division 3: Phillip Island defeated Foster in the Saturday pennant grand final show down. Pictured is the winning team consisting Ken Gill, Bill Giles, Bruce Puncher, Mark Hone, Phyllas Major, Paddy Francis, Norm Waters, Howard Spencer, John Paterno, George Mol, Phil Martin, Greg Nixon, Reg Excell, Les McGhee and Richard Poole.

• Saturday pennant

Inverloch claim Division 1 Winners: from left, Port Welshpool’s Latna McLaine, Kane Horvath, Joy Palmer, Peter MacPhail, Cheryl Roberts, Errol Gregory, Mary Allott, Alma Mattingley, Margaret McDonald, John Roberts, Nola Clifford, Belinda Crawford and Bill Matthews defeated Tarwin Lower in the Division 2 pennant grand final on Tuesday.

Proud: from left, Mirboo North’s Don Birks, Lorna Roberts, Maurie Briscoe, Dot Stein, John Chadwick, Dot McFarland, George Stein, Grace Hatfield, Barb Jones, Ann Plowman, Graeme Roberts, Bert Bright and Margaret Briscoe hold up the premiership flag after defeating Leongatha in the Division 3 Tuesday pennant grand final at Korumburra.

Achievement: from left, Inverloch’s Joan Clark, Rita Everitt, Christine Gillman, Pam Lawson, Jan Fraser, Judy Moule, Veronica Muir, Maureen Paynting, Nell van Grunsven and Pat Stoneham were proud of their efforts after winning the Division 4 pennant grand final against Corinella on Tuesday.

INVERLOCH enjoyed a 39 shot win over Leongatha in the Division1 grand final in Korumburra last weekend.

With an early break, Inverloch moved ahead of Leongatha and kept its momentum going.

Leongatha kept fighting to the end, demonstrating why it had received a place in the grand final.

Over at Inverloch, Fish Creek had a 30 shot win over San Remo in Division 2.

Division 3 was won by Phillip Island after defeating Foster, while Korumburra claimed Division 4 over Wonthaggi.

San Remo was the Division 5 after defeat-

ing Fish Creek.

The results are as follows; Division 1: Inverloch (B) 16/85. (39 shots) defeated Leongatha -/46.

Winners: Inverloch (B).

Division 2: Fish Creek 16/88 (30 shots) defeated San Remo -/58.

Winners: Fish Creek.

Division 3: Phillip Island 16/89 (28 shots) defeated Foster -/61.

Winners: Phillip Island.

Division 4: Korumburra (M) 14/93 (27 shots) defeated Wonthaggi 2/66.

Winners: Korumburra (M).

Division 5: San Remo 12/70 (8 shots) defeated Fish Creek 4/62.

Winners: San Remo.

Winners: Korumburra became the Saturday pennant Division 4 champions after defeating Wonthaggi on the weekend. The team consisted Graham Freestone, George Hams, Ross Lomagno, Peter Hearn, Ian Pepperell, Les Eastman, Kevin Beecroft, Hamish Beecroft, Colin Underwood, Roger Balmont, John McVeigh, Rob Dorrity and Allan Jordan.

Pennant champs: San Remo defeated Fish Creek in the Saturday pennant Division 5 grand final. Pictured is the San Remo team of Jill Waters, Jill Naylor, Carol Thorn, Bob Hill, Shirley Carvosso, Cliff Pulling, Jacko, Frank Truscott, Ric Spargo, Simon Waters, Jacqui Cohen, Jeff Seford and Andy Dennis.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 47

BOWLS | SPORT

thestar.com.au Tarwin Lower LAST Tuesday (February 21) was a beautiful day for the grand final at Korumburra, but unfortunately Tarwin Lower’s Division 2 was beaten by Port Welshpool.

Thank you to the spectators who encouraged the team and later joined them back at the club rooms to celebrate their achievement of reaching the grand final.

Thank you also to Korumburra for hosting the final and providing lunch for the players.

The following day was Wednesday Triples at Tarwin and it was observed by some

Fish Creek IT was a wild ride for Fish Creek Bowls Club this week, culminating with the Division 2 team winning against San Remo, as South Gippsland’s champions.

Unfortunately Division 5 was not as lucky, losing out marginally to another San Remo team.

Congratulations to both teams for making Fish Creek proud.

Fish Creek Bowls would like to thank The Fish Creek General Store and Alison Lester for taking time to display the red and white colours in support. It is a great encouragement to know that the community are behind the teams.

A team of ladies took part

Leongatha RESULTS of the short form pairs tournament on Sunday, February 19 as follows: Division 1 winners were R. Trotman and Peter Shaw, runners-up John Thorton and Arthur Moule. Division 2 winners were Bruce anderson and John Turner. Division 3 winners were Ken Lester and Gary Van Sinderen.

Best last game went to Ian Todd and Ray McGannon with plus eight.

Sponsors for the day were Stockdale and Leggo and the club thanks them for their valued support.

Tuesday, February 21 saw Division 1 ladies play the Seagull ladies Inverloch in the grand final and they came away with the flag. I understand the last time our Division 1 ladies won the flag was 1981-82, so well done ladies the club is proud of you all.

The only scores I have been able to obtain is that Rosa James’ team won by six shots, Jenny Miller’s team by one shot and M. Pearson’s team by five shots.

Division 3 ladies also played in a grand final up against the might of Mirboo North and they lost 61 to 68 shots.

Bev Thompson’s team lost 12 to 28 shots, Mary Jepson’s team won 27 to 24 shots and Marlene Rayson’s team won 22 to 16 shots.

To Division 1 and 3 ladies, well done in making the grand final.

Tuesday evening saw round four of the business bowls, with results as follows: Whackers 82 d Spencer HBB 28, B.J. Earthmoving 84 d Stihl team 32, X Factor 77 d Nagels Chemist 31, Leongatha Ladies 75 d Smiths 33, Murphy’s boys 74 d Mini Skips 33, Edneys 70 d Beers 35, Mountain View (2) 69 d Posties 45, Stewart’s Tyres 63 d The Davos 42, Nesci Transport 64 d Robbo’s team 48, Murray Goulburn 61 d Nomadness 48, Westaway Ford 59 d Mountain View (1) 48, Parks 61 d Bowls and Beauty 50, Gatha Lions 59 d Repco 53 and Leongatha

Winners: Steve Graham, Tommy Hamdorf and Colin Mansfield won the Wednesday Triples. that a few of the stars of the previous day were not playing to their full potential.

The winning team was Tarin the Leongatha Invitation Day and came home winners of the day, also upholding Fish Creek Bowls; well done to Mary Vuillerman, Marg Smith, Chris McLean and Sally Gipson.

Turkey Triples took place at the club on Thursday, February 23.

Winners overall were T. Corcoran, D. Lawson, and R. Letcher from Toora.

Sunday, February 26, was the Corrie McKenzie day was once again held at the Fish Creek Bowls Club.

This was well attended and a most enjoyable afternoon.

Winners of this event were Robbie Gryls, Ryan Staley and Peter Lambert with Andy Kerr and his team, Lloyd McKenBowls Club (1) 58 d Leongatha Bowls Club (2) 55.

The ladder after round four sees the top six teams with B.J. Earthmoving 276 points followed by Murphy’s Boys 256, Leongatha Bowls Team (1) 255, Whackers 248, Murray Goulburn 245, Leongatha Bowls Team (2) 245.

Round five will be played on Tuesday evening, February 28 which will be the last round before the finals the following week. A full ladder report will be in the next report after found five.

Wednesday, February 22 saw the monthly triples in action and the winner was the Phillip Island team of John Newcombe (s), Peter Forrest and Graeme Cornell with four wins plus 36. Runner-up was the Foster team of Ian Parks (s), Bill Thorne and Jim Parry with four wins plus 33.

The best last game went to the Leongatha team of Bruce Anderson (s), Lyn Anderson and Ken Williams with plus 17.

The sponsor for the day was McDonald and Roberts and the club thanks them for its valued support.

Friday, February 24 saw the ladies director invitation day tournament, with some 27 teams taking part. Winner on the day was the Fish Creek team of Mary Vuillerman (s) with Sally, Marg Smith and Chris McLean with three wins plus 19. Runners-up were Ann Plowman (s), Lorna Roberts, Margaret Briscoe and Grace Hatfield with two wins, a draw and plus 18.

The best last game went to Jae Allen-Dale (s), Pam Wintrup, Anne Oehens and Cathy Simpson.

Sponsors for the day were RMBL Bowls and the club thanks them for its valued support.

Saturday, February 25 saw the men’s pennant grand finals in action with Division 1 the only entry, against the Seagulls, Inverloch.

It appears the Seagulls were not happy to see its Division 1 ladies defeated in the grand final by the Parrots, so came out to even the score, and that they

win’s Steve Graham, Tommy Hamdorf and one of the club’s newest players Colin Mansfield.

The intra club games are still in progress and all members are encouraged to check the notice boards for dates by which games need to be completed.

There are also many inter club games listed on the notice board for which we need teams.

Some dates for the member’s diaries are: Ladies Invitation Day (March 1); the annual “Memorial Day Bowls” – an event open to all clubs.

Please contact Gordon Burke on 0490 449 081 to register (March 18); Annual Frankston v Tarwin Lower competition (March 26); Ladies Guest Day (March 30).

McKenzie Day tournament: the team of Robbie Gryls, Ryan Staley, Jill Baker and Peter Lambert were the winners on Saturday. zie and Glenys Pilkington as runners up. Many thanks go to the McKenzie clan for their sponsorship on the day.

Barefoot (social) bowls has another two weeks remaining concluding on March 7 and 8. did, defeating Leongatha 85 to 46 shots: R. Trotman’s team lost 18 to 26, J. Hall’s team lost 12 to 33 and B. Anderson’s team lost 16 to 26. Well done to Inverloch overall through the 2016-17 pennant season.

It was a very good year for Leongatha, with both ladies divisions and the three men’s divisions making the finals.

Until the next report, good bowling - ‘Jackhigh’.

Meeniyan THE seven weeks of corporate bowls concluded this week.

Tuesday had a field of 16 teams divided into four sections for the final night.

Overall winners were Espy (Wayne, Daryl and Clive) with Bombers runners up (Dean, Bruce and Steve).

Division 2 winners were JRL (Jack, Ralph and Lenny), Division 3 winners were Great Bowls of Fire (Ben, Nick and Adam) and Division 4 winners were Robo (Kevin, David and Dawn).

Wednesday was an eight team event with winners Mr Mc Brown (Robert, Don and Dale) and runners up were What Do You Think?

(Lindsay, Fizz and Linda).

Thanks to Ray for organising the teams, the barbecuing team and members who helped on a regular basis.

Wednesday, February 22, was Ladies Invitation Day with 14 teams participating including Yinnar and Yarram from outside the area.

The sponsor was Meeniyan IGA along with life member Evelyn Thorson.

Winners were Sharon Brown’s team (Tarwin Lower) with Carol Thorn’s team (San Remo) runners up.

Ditch to ditch went to Mavis Cridge (Tarwin Lower) and Nellie Jacobs (Foster).

Lucky the lucky door prize winner was Margaret Flett (Inverloch).

The raffle winner was Marie Kerr (Fish Creek), and the Travelling Jack vouchers went to Judy Lavada (Fish Creek) and Irene Hill (Meeniyan).

The two remaining men’s events have concluded. Hun-

This is a last opportunity to learn about the game and any members of the community who are still interested in playing should contact Andy Kerr (5683 2380) to register your name or team or further information. dred up went to Bruce Lelliot with Chris Kelly runner up, both new bowlers.

President’s handicap went to Peter Williams with Bruce Lelliot runner up.

This concludes the summer season as work is to start on the new green this week.

Concreting and alterations to shelters will also be overseen

by Alan Hanks and a team of volunteers.

Upshot 2.

Buffalo indoor Wednesday, February 22 A GOOD number of bowlers this week with visitors Doreen Craig and Steve Martin, new bowler Ann Balas, and Graeme Trease from Mardan joining us for the night.

It was good to see Illene Tiziani bowling again with her new knee and bowling well.

In game one Ian Hasty, Charlie Tumino, Illene Tiziani and Ann Balas bowled well to beat Toni Heldens, Mary Tumino, Graeme Trease and Maureen Taylor 12-4, and on the other mat Peter Tiziani, Carolyn Benson and Doreen Craig out bowled Bill Wolswinkel, Mark Taylor, Denyse Menzies and Steve Martin 13-3.

In game two Ian Hasty’s team scored its second win beating Peter Tiziani’s team 10-5. In a low scoring game Bill’s team won 7-3 over Toni’s team.

It was decided to only play four ends in the third game as it was getting late. Bill, Mark, Denyse and Steve had their second win beating Ian, Charlie, Illene and Ann 4-3. Toni, Mary, Graeme and Maureen had their first win beating Peter, Carolyn and Doreen 6-1.

Overall winners for the night were Ian, Charlie, Illene, Ann (WWL) 13 ends, then Bill, Mark, Denyse and Steve (LWW) 10 ends, third Peter, Carolyn and Doreen (WLL) nine ends, fourth Toni, Mary, Graeme and Maureen (LLW) eight ends.

It has been good to have Mardan bowlers joining us until their season starts next week.

Social bowls Wednesday 7.30pm at the Buffalo hall - all welcome.

Inverloch WEDNESDAY social bowls saw 12 players enjoying two friendly games of 10 ends.

Winners with two wins were Nell Van Grunsven, Laurel Lee and Val Davis.

March 1 is the next social game starting at 12.30pm.

Thursday social bowls had 18 bowlers on the greens to play two 12-end games of two-bowl triples.

Winners, with two wins and 36 points were Bob Davis (S), Peter Dalmau and Terry Orford.

Runners up, with one win and 26 points, were Nic Van Grunsven, Graeme Dunlop and Harry Dunn.

Thursday Social Bowls are on next week.

Names in by 11.30am for 12.30pm start.

Inverloch, as a neutral venue, hosted the Saturday pennant finals matches for Divisions 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the South Gippsland Bowls Division competition and 200-odd spectators lined the perimeters of both greens to support the eight teams competing for four flags in perfect bowling weather.

Inverloch’s Division One Blue played its final against Leongatha on Korumburra’s top green.

Leongatha played valiantly but were unable to repeat the giant-killing form

Team work: Thursday Social Bowls winners at Inverloch were Terry Orford, Bob Davis and Peter Dalmau. of the previous Saturday, when they defeated reigning champions Philip Island Blue in the preliminary final played at Inverloch.

Inverloch managed to get an early break and led 28-8 after 19 ends.

At the tea-break, Inverloch maintained its lead and came in at 46-20 with 39 ends played.

After 59 ends, the score was 65-37, with Inverloch holding a comfortable lead on all three rinks, in spite of some brilliant bowling by Leongatha’s tried and proven players.

The game finished after two teams completed 25 ends each and a concession on rink five, where Mick Coram’s team was in an unbeatable position after 23 ends. Frank Seaton’s team (Mick Bowman, Wayne Parks and Gavin Butler) defeated John Hall’s team 33-12.

Ron Burge’s team (Glen Scott, Ross Gabb and Chas Buccilli) finished 26-18 against Russell Trotman’s team.

Mick Coram’s team (Dave Roberts, Andrew Rowe and Gary Hardy) led Bruce Anderson’s team 26 to 16 when play was called off.

Inverloch held an overall lead of 39 shots up, leaving no doubt as to who were Division One champions for season 2016-17. They celebrated in the appropriate manner when they returned triumphant to the clubrooms bearing their hard-won blue flag.

Members’ night returns on Friday. The jackpot was won so we start back at the beginning.

Don’t forget the club presentation night on Saturday, March 4. The venue is full and the night starts at 5.30pm.

Goannas seal a win at Inverloch THE Inverloch cricket ground was in great condition and the weather was absolutely perfect as the Gippsland Goannas Over-60 cricket team welcomed their counterparts from the Hobson’s Bay area.

With 12 Goannas and only eight from Hobson’s Bay, there was an interchange system devised for the match.

Batting first, Ian Gibson was out early but Graeme Freshwater retired for 40.

Ray Smith hit nine fours in a 21 ball innings before retiring at 43, and Inverloch local Fred Debono made a timely 25, as the Goannas were two for 107 at the 20 over drinks break.

Neil Meredith continued the effort with three fours and three sixes before holing out for 37 from 16 balls as Murray Moore made 23, Kel Bond 12, Kevin Lanigan 6no and Val Popov 12no enabling the Goannas to reach 7/213 from 40 overs.

Once again the lunch was superb, and Moore and Meredith soon opened the bowling.

The Hobson’s Bay batsmen batted carefully, reaching two for 47 at the drinks break.

A few of the Goannas batted for the Hobson’s Bay team, with recruit Rob Francis 26no and Phill Higgins 10no for the visitors.

Wickets were shared around with Meredith taking two for nine from seven overs, Lanigan 1/10 from 5, Higgins 2/3 from two, and Bob Duljas and Popov also claiming a wicket.

Special mention must be made of a great diving catch taken by Duljas

as the Hobson’s Bay team completed their innings at seven for 135 from their 40 overs.

As the Goannas are participating in the annual tournament in Echuca in the third week of March, practice will continue at

Glengarry from 4.30pm on a Wednesday afternoon.

The Goannas are proud to announce that Kevin Lanigan has been selected as one of five Victorians to represent the national team in the Grey Ashes series in England in July.

TIDES Here is an easy guide to tides in your area.

To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below.

Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Point Lonsdale

MARCH Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

1 WED

2 THUR

3 FRI

4 SAT

5 SUN

6 MON

7 TUE

0252 0837 1505 2050

1.54 0.45 1.49 0.35

0331 0918 1552 2133

1.58 0.35 1.56 0.35

0410 1000 1637 2215

1.60 0.26 1.60 0.37

0447 1042 1722 2259

1.60 0.20 1.61 0.41

0525 1125 1808 2342

1.57 0.17 1.58 0.46

0605 1207 1858

1.53 0.17 1.53

0026 0647 1252 1954

0.53 1.48 0.21 1.47

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

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

SPORT | GOLF

thestar.com.au Tuesday’s winner was Athol Worthy 40 pts and Thursday’s winner Bill Hessels 36 pts.

Korumburra ladies

Success: the happy winners of the Gena Roughead Bowl were the Woorayl team of Jenny Riseley, Pauline Lancaster and Elly Berryman.

Day for it: Gerry Carcour, Phil Barry, Jimmy Karabatsos from the Latrobe Golf Club and Ted Bruinewoud from the Leongatha Golf Club made the most of the sunny weather last Friday, February 17.

Leongatha golf SEVENTY EIGHT golfers took part in a 4BBB Par event on Saturday with the top four pairs going into a Matchplay format to decide the winner of the Allan Edney 4BBB Trophy.

Keith Finney and Mick Oliver amassed a very good score of +11 to win the day and be leading qualifiers for the Allan Edney Trophy.

Runner up was the team of Ian Murchie and Allan Schache with +8 The other two qualifiers were the teams of Frank Gill and Phillippe du Plessis with +7 and John Moor and Rob Martin in a countback with +6.

They all received balls along with the teams of Brett Windsor and Rod Hopcraft, Doug Clemann and David Vorwerg, Ian Debenham and Trevor Rickard, Ryan Thomas and Rod Brown, Geoff Sherman and Peter Buttinger, Geoff McDonald and Peter Walsh, John Dalton and Noel Johnson, Bryan Roylance and Nick Shaw and Anthony

Sparkes and Tom Williamson.

NTPs were Denis Wallace on the 14th hole and Peter Hartigan on the 16th.

Next Saturday is a Stroke round and Monthly Medal.

On Tuesday of last week 62 golfers contested a Stableford competition with Antony Roberts producing the best score of the day of 41 points to win C Grade and the overall.

A Grade was taken out

by Leroy Sharrock with 38 points in a countback and John Simon was successful in B Grade with 36 points.

DTL balls were awarded to Geoff Sherman, Frank Thomas, Rod Brown, Richard Nelson, Craig Hams, Marilyn Williams, John Eabry, David Child, Andrew Henley, Neil Mackenzie, Mark Anderson, Ron Findlay, Grant McRitchie, Bert Borg, Will Norden, Neale Gillin, Colin Bear and Geoff McDonald.

NTPs were Ron Findlay on the 14th hole and Geoff McDonald on the 16th.

Thursday was “Grab a

Lefty” Ambrose day kindly sponsored by The Dandenong Club.

Winner with nett 55.875 was the Team of Kevin Castwood, Bill Bittleman, Neil Mackenzie and Frank Smedley.

Runner up was the team of Leroy Sharrock, Mick Oliver, Keith Finney and Wendy Parker with net 56.375.

Third place was the team of Jan and Ron Paice, John King and Jeff Brewer with a net 58.

DTL balls were won by the teams of Michael Thomas, Colin Bear, Allan Schache, and Craig Hams, Peter Hartigan, Trevor Moss, Chris Leaver and Kevin Scott, Maryanne Gartner, Rebecca Thomas, Karen Bear and Julie Howard.

NTPs were Ian Murchie on the 14th hole and Michael Thomas on the 16th.

There was also an individual Stableford competition for those not taking part in the Grab a Leftie competition.

This was taken out by Ken Smirk with 41 points.

Woorayl win Gena Roughead Bowl IT is 40 years since the Gena Roughead Bowl began in 1978.

It was played in rather unseasonal wintery conditions on Monday, February 20. However, it was well supported as always with 51 players participating from all the Gippsland clubs and Mirboo North.

The winners of the Bowl was a team from Woorayl with 86 stableford points.

The team consisted of Pauline Lancaster, Elly Berryman and Jenny Riseley, and, the

event was generously sponsored by Hartley Wells Betta Home Living.

The A Grade winner was Irene Holm from Meeniyan with 33 points.

The B Grade winner was Heather Poletti also from Meeniyan with 33 points and the C Grade winner was Peta Barlow from Welshpool with 32 points.

Nearest the pin on the 11th was won by Chris Gunn from Mirboo North and on the 17th the honour went to Sev Piasente from Wonthaggi.

Top golfers: the A Grade winner was Irene Holm (left) with B Grade winner Heather Poletti and C Grade winner Peta Barlow.

IT was a ‘mixed bag’ of golfing last Wednesday.

A number of people played matches in the Singles Knockout, nine played in a Par competition and three played nine holes of Stableford.

Marg Harper (33) won the Par competition with one down and Jean White (41) was runner up with four down.

Jan Hewitt was closest on the first green to win.

Other NTP winners were Lynette McIvor on seventh and Chris Rickard on the 13th.

The nine hole competition, carried over from previous weeks, was won by Lee Clements with 15 points.

Congratulations to Lynne Schwennersen, who has put in sufficient cards and now has a handicap of 45.

It was great to have many beginners taking part in the second golfing lesson, with the final session on Wednesday at 9am.

Next Wednesday, there is a timesheet in the foyer for a Par event.

Some women are taking the opportunity to play their second round of the Singles Knockout. The next round of the Singles Knockout needs to be completed on or before March 8.

There will also be a committee meeting after presentations.

Section 4 pennant began yesterday (February 27) and Section 2 starts on March 6.

Good luck to all the women who have put their hands up for pennant.

Last Monday, a team played in the Woorayl Bowl.

It was good weather once again for twilight.

Three pairs finished on 20 points, with Betty Thomson and Roger Hamill winning on a c/b from Jean White and Greg Jones. Sandra and Laurie Webster came in third. Bob Stiff had NTP on the first.

Seven women played on Saturday. Sandra Webster (37) won with 30 points on a c/b from Deb Wrigley (25) and Kath Welsh was NTP on the first.

Foster Great day: enthusiastic golfers Heather Harley, Jenny Schlank, Ruth Iser from Axedale Golf Club and Rita de Bondt from Leongatha Golf Club at the Leongatha golf course on Friday, February 17.

Leongatha Ladies

+2. It is pleasing to see Lianne’s handicap is continuing to reduce.

Down the line balls were won by Evelyn Indian +3, Libby Seebeck, Shirley Welsford and Anne Gibson +1, Maxine Eabry square, Melinda Martin, Colleen Touzel, Georgina Mitchell and Marea Maher -1 and Glenyce McRobert, Trish Owen and Jan Brownlie -2.

Dot Stubbs won the nearest the pin on the 14th and Colleen Touzel on the 16th.

Lianne Adamson was closest to the flag, second shot, on the 16th.

Noreen Williams (32) won the nine hole competition with 20 points followed

by Fran O’Brien 16 and Marion Chalmers 15 points.

Saturday, February 25: Par. Winner: Rebecca Wilson (12) square.

Down the line: Wendy Winners: Lynda Bassett (C Grade) and Alison Strong (B Parker -1, Di Williams -3, Grade) enjoyed success at the Leongatha Golf Club last Marg Berry -5 and Dot Stubbs -6. week. Absent: Ann Blundy (A Grade).

PERFECT weather, and near perfect golf was enjoyed by the women in the Par event last week.

Club vouchers were provided by Jocelyn Howson for the grade winners and Glenyce McRobert donated a magnificent hamper for the raffle.

Of the 36 players in the

field, seven completed the round with a positive score.

Ann Blundy (17) won A Grade with +2; not bad for someone not playing regularly.

Both B Grade and C Grade winners have continued their steady form.

Alison Strong (28) won B Grade, again, with +4 and Lianne Adamson (36) was a clear leader in C Grade with

Stableford champs: the Hartley Wells 4BBB winners were Elly Berryman and Jo Fennell with runners up Shirley Thomas and Thel Scoble.

Woorayl ladies AFTER some cool weather early in the week, it was pleasing to see the blue skies and sun shining for the ladies playing on Wednesday, February 22.

Play for the day was a 4BBB Stableford format which was sponsored by Hartley Wells Betta Home Living.

Elly Berryman (14) and Jo Fennell (31) posted a score of 41 points and were the winners for the day with runners up Shirley Thomas (16) and Thel Scoble (24) with 40 points.

NTP on eighth was D. O’Connor, 11th T. Scoble and 17th I. Giliam.

DTL balls went to H. Sullivan (23) and A.

Woorayl SATURDAY’S event was the February Monthly Medal with 43 players competing throughout the three grades.

The second runner up winners were A Grade; D. Dwyer, B. Grade; J. Redmond and C. Grade; G. Forrester.

The runner up winners were A Grade; P. Challis, B Grade; G. Salmon and C Grade; R. Sullivan.

Winners for the day were A Grade; I. Balfour, B Grade; T. Williams and C Grade for the second monthly medal win from the past three, B.

Grist (18) 39 points, and I. Giliam (35) and J. Graeme (32) 37 points It was also the first round of the D. and J. O’Connor 4BBB Stableford event with the top four pairs to qualify. Congratulations to Elly and Jo, Shirley and Thel, Heather and Ann and Inge and Jo who will go onto play a knockout round later in March with a third round to be played to determine the winning pair.

The first round of pennant starts on Monday, February 27, with Woorayl vs. Meeniyan at Meeniyan – good hitting to all players.

Next week is the Monthly Medal, and qualifying round of the Ken Grist Memorial Singles Knockout – 16 to qualify.

Wilson.

Down the line balls went to K. Miles, C. Hall, R. Warren, G. McKinnon, B. Hogan, M. Herrald, P. Wallace, T. Ryan and J. Howard.

Nearest the pins on the eighth was T. Williams and 17th with a very fine shot B. Hall.

The “Shed” syndicate won the raffle.

Next week is the McLeod four ball qualifying event, so grab your partner and enjoy your golf next weekend.

Korumburra THERE were 43 players on Saturday, February 25 for the second round of championships, with trophies supplied by I. Dixon and D. Sorrell.

A Grade: L. Guilfoyle (4 hcp) 69 net, M. Garnham 71, D. O’Neill 72, B. Clasby 72, S. Rose 72, I. Cash 73.

B Grade: M. Deleeuw (23 hcp) 69 net, J. Wilson 72, D. Hislop 72.

Missed out on 73: C. Clements, B. Hessels.

Nearest the pin: 1st T. O’Neill, 7th J. Wilson, 10th B. Hessels, 13th T. Herbert.

TUESDAY, February 21: Winner: D. Summers +1.

NTP: sixth N. Thompson.

DTL: R. Prain Sq and N. Cooper Sq. Wednesday, February 22: Ladies Stableford Aggregate.

Winner: S. Wylie 37 points and M. Ellis 35points (72 points). NTP: 17th K. Morris.

DTL: C. Thompson 39, A. McKenzie 36, M. Willder 33 and J. O’Sullivan 33.

Thursday, February 23: Stableford.

Winner: T. Jones 40 points.

NTP: 17th J. Stone. DTL: C. Pulham 39, T. Price 38 and F. Tyers 38.

Friday, February 24: Chook Run. Winner: B. Dash 22 c/b.

NTPs: 13th J. Toner and 17th D. Thornell. DTL: K, Esler 22 and G, Watkins 20.

Saturday, February 24: Single Stableford.

Winner: A: C. Buckland 41points, B: G. Paine 41points.

NTP: fourth C. Buckland, sixth C. Downing, 13th C. Buckland, 15th A. Naylor and 17th T. Jones.

DTL: D. Summers 41, S. Reid 40, C. Pulham 40, A. McGrath 39, F. Tyers 38 and S. Rathjen 38. Ladies’ winner: G. Reid 41points. DTL: J. Town 41.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 49

GOLF | SPORT

thestar.com.au

Golf Classic a success

THE 27nd South Gippsland Golf Classic, which ran from February 11 to 19, was once again very successful.

Visitors were welcomed from many golf districts around Victoria as well as many interstate players and one from America and all seemed to enjoy the social aspect of nine day of golf.

The weather this year was unusually wet and cold but the fields again averaged 160 players each day an excellent result.

The 36 hole South Gippsland Classic champion this year is Garry Black from Bairnsdale Golf Club with a total of 154 cb and for the ladies Heather Harley with a total of 169 from Kooringal Golf Club.

The winner of the R Durran Memorial Marathon trophy for the men was Greg West from Howlong Golf Club and the ladies winner was Ann Newman from Tally Valley Golf Club in Queensland.

Congratulations to this year’s winners; Maree Moroson from Midlands Golf Club and the other winner Carrie Harding.

The 36 Hole South Gippsland Golf Classic, played at Yarram and Mirboo Northt Golf Clubs: A Grade: Men Scratch: Gary Black (Bairnsdale) 154 cb. Handicap: Stuart Henning (Mirboo North) 139 net. Ladies Scratch: Heather Harley (Kooringal) 169. Handicap: Debbie Gorin (Kooringal) 149 net.

B Grade: Men’s winner: Laurie McDonald (Boardford) 75 points cb. Runner up: Ross Thompson (Warragul) 75 points. Ladies winner: Sue Traill (Mirboo North) 67 points.

Runner up: Jenny Coleman (Marysville) 63 points.

C Grade: Men’s winner: Uga Tettamanti (Warragul) 72 points. Runner up: Greg West (Howlong) 71 points. Ladies’ winner: Jill White (Mirboo North 73 points). Runner up: Ann Newman (Tally Valley Q) 71 points cb.

Results; day one at Foster

Lang Lang DATE: Tuesday, February 21.

Event: Tuesday Competition - 2BBSTB; Field: 64; Winner: Greg Austin (6) 39 points. Runner up: Brian Smith (25) 38 points. 2BBB winners: Brian Smith (25) and John Rodakis (34) 46 points.

NTP: fifth Noel Wight 42cm, ninth John Roberts 116cm and 15th Drew Pearson 399cm. DTL: John Bellis 38, Mal McKenna 38, Noel Zunneberg 37, Kieran Heenan 37, Mick Colley 37, Leslie Anderson 36, David Fahey 36, Derek Scully 35, Dick Ogilvy 35 and John Rodakis 35.

Ladies results, February 22: A Grade: Ruth May (18) +6. B Grade: Di Fraser (26) -1. C Grade: C Lynch (24) Square. NTP: ninth Carol Lynch, 12th Pat Randall and 15th Ruth May. DTL: Jennifer Sullivan, Libby Dehey, Lee Andrews, Roseland Dubuisson-Perrine and Anne De Leeuw.

Date: Thursday, February 23 Event: Thursday Comp 2BASTB. Field: 68. Grades Splinter Dorratt (24) 39c/b; Grades Nick Dehey 39 2B Agg. Winners: George Morozoff and Nick Dehey – 77c/b.

NTP: fifth John Hansen, ninth Thomas Johnson, 12th Will Christensen and 15th Ian

Golf Club – 4BBB, Mixed, Men’s and Ladies Stableford: Mixed winners: Gary Shandley and Jill White (Mirboo North) 50 points. Mixed runner up: Alan Hayes and Jeanette Swan (Welshpool) 49 points. Mixed second runner up: Garry Stafford and Yvonne Stafford (Heidelberg) 46 points.

Ladies winners: Gayle Tyers and A. Haywood (Foster) 42 points. Men’s winners: Gary Renwick and Chris Long (Mirboo North) 46 points cb. Men’s runner up: Mark Hales and Joe Kus (Mirboo North) 46 points.

Results; day two at Korumburra Golf Club – Ambrose, teams of four: Scratch winners: Jamie Ricardol, Peter Kane (Korumburra /Phillip Island) and, Michael Thomas and Rebecca Thomas (Leongatha) 58 Gross. Handicap winners: Jeanette Mitchell and Melissa Bakaris (Garfield) 52 1/8 net and Leeta Mathews and Mick Mathews (Garfield).

Handicap runner up: Ian Cash, Ricky Johnson (Korumburra) 535/8 net, Matt Wrigley and Carrie Harding (Korumburra).

Handicap second runner up: Richard Horseman, Dan Macey (Yarram) 557/8 net, Maree Morrison and Gale O’Loughlan (Midlands).

Results; day three at Woorayl Golf Club – Mixed Irish Four ball and Stableford Winners: Maree Thompson and Nicole Allen (Mirboo North), and Gary Shandley and Ray Thompson (Mirboo North) 86 points. Runner up: Tom Trail and Sue Trail (Mirboo North), Paul Govaars and Jeanette Mitchell (Garfield) 85 points. Second runner up: Graeme Calder and Kevin Riseley (Woorayl), and Alice Campbell and Carol Johnson (Woorayl) 83 points.

Results; day four at Meeniyan Golf Club – Stableford, men’s and ladies: A Grade: Men’s winner: Gorden Lowe (Box Hill) 35 points cb. Runner up: Leroy Sharrock (Leongatha) 35 points.

Ladies winner: Toni West (Leongatha) 36 points. Runner up: Irene Holm (Meeniyan) 34 points.

B Grade: Men winner: Gar-

ry Shandley Mirboo North 38 points. Runner up: Simon Hill (USA) 37 points cb. Ladies winner: Bev Branson (Russell Vale, NSW) 36 points. Runner up: Cheryl Childlow (Ocean Shores, NSW) 35 points.

C Grade: Men winner: Mark Hales (Meeniyan) 39 points. Runner up: Robert Coleman (Marysville) 33 points cb.

Ladies winner: May Connolly (Riverside) 37 points cb. Runner up: Ann Newman (Tally Valley Q) 37 points.

Results; day five at Welshpool Golf Club –Mixed Canadian Foursomes A Grade winners: Scratch: Cliff Childlow and Cheryl Childow (Ocean Shores, NSW) 83cb. Handicap: Noel Underwood and Peta Barlow (Yarram) 70.

B Grade winners: Scratch: Gary Shandley and Jill White (Mirboo North) 85.

Handicap: Ray Newman and Ann Newman (Tally Valley Q) 70. 18 Hole A M: Chris Leaver and Maryanne Leaver (Leongatha) 73. 18 Hole P M: Terry Garrett and Margret Owen (Garfield / Orbost) 713/4.

Results; day six at Phillip Island Golf Club – Stableford, men’s and ladies A Grade Men winner: Jim Richardson (Phillip Island) 40 points.

Runner up: Terry Garratt (Garfield) 39 points. Ladies winner: Jenny Coleman (Marysville) 37 points. Runner up: Jenny Bauerie (Kyabram) 36 points.

B Grade Men winner: Rick Adlophson (Phillip Island) 42 points.

Runner up: Rod Williamson (Bairnsdale) 40 points. Ladies winner: Alice Schofield (Phillip Island) 40 points cb. Runner up: Wendy Collier (Yering Meadows) 40 points.

C Grade Men winner: Tony Bobin (Howlong) 44 points. Runner up: Fred Ardern (Phillip Island) 42 points. Ladies winner: Gloria Forbes (Stud Valley) 33 points.

Runner up: Linda Bassett (Leongatha) 32 points.

Results; day seven at Leongatha Golf Club – men’s and ladies Four BBB Stableford A Grade

Stewart. DTL: Gary Ward 38, David Allen 38, Michael Bushe 38, George Morozoff 38, Geoff Cohen 38, Leslie Anderson 37, Thomas Johnson 37, Bill Stainsby 37, Dick Ogilvy 37 and Bill Sherriff 37c/b.

Date: Saturday, February 25 Event: Saturday - 2BBSTB- Field: 191. Grades: Rod Cameron 51, Grades: Robert Bride 51, Grades: Steve Wedlock 48, Grades: Brad Lovitt 48. Individual winner: Rob Bride (15) 44. Individual runners up: Steve Wedlock (20) 41. Ladies winner: Pat Randall (22) 41. Runner up: Lee Andrews (24) 39. NTP: fifth Lee Andrews and 12th Pam Anderson. NTP: fifth Buddha Harkness, ninth Mal McKenna, 12th Grant Johnson, 15th Brian Barnes and 18th Trevor Cridland. DTL teams: Michael Harmes 47, David Lovie 47, Noel Bradford 46, Clive Taylor 46, Steve Fuller 46, Trevor Cridland 46, Wayne Thomas 46, Bob Sandiford 46, Edmund Burgess 45, Peter Dovaston 45, Ray Orchard 45, Colin Rangitonga 45, Jason Filip 44, Tony Cheles 44, Jaymes Leahy 44, Kurt Batt 44, Chris Banks 44, Gehan Peiris 44, David Oswald 44, David O’Donnell 44, Bill Stainsby 44, Geoff Barns 44, David Taggart 43, Perry

O’Connor 43, Brian Hall 43, David Hunter 43, David Hunter 43, Kevin Curtis 43, Steve Pollock 43, Daryl Barker 43 and Shane Bydder 43.

Meeniyan ladies MEENIYAN ladies have been out and about this week arriving in force at Woorayl to play in the Gena Roughead Bowl.

The teams both missed out by one point but Heather Poletti and Irene Holm took out A Grade and B Grade respectively.

Heather scored 33 points (19) and Irene scored 33 points (14). Heather also won the raffle.

On Wednesday, Heather scooped the pool once again winning the trophies donated

by Janine Redpath and Margie Roe. Heather scored 35 points (19) and thanked our sponsors for their continued support.

The other Heather, Heather McCaughan won Section 2 with 31 points (45).

The best nine only was won by Jenny Cope with 16 points.

NTP on second was Dot Christie and 11th Andrea Thorson.

BDL went to Faye Lepage 32 points (21) and Sue Hoskin 31 points (23).

Men winners: Robert Coleman and Barry Noble (Marysville/Eastwood) 45 points. Runner up: John Dalton and David Child (Leongatha) 42 points.

Second runner up: Robert Fulton and Larry Giddy (Foster) 40 points cb. Ladies winners: Colleen Touzel and Shirley Westford (Leongatha) 47 points.

Runner up: Dot Stubbs and Ann Newman (Leongatha/Tally Valley) 46 points.

B Grade Men winners: Tony Ciaveralla and Geoff Alborough (Stawell/Rich River) 49 points.

Runner up: Tom Hollingsworth and Rodger Oakley (Bairnsdale) 44 points. Second runner up: Bill Vandenberg and Cyril Nesome (East Geelong) 44 points cb. Ladies winners: Marianne Leaver and Glennis Day (Leongatha) 44 points. Runner up: Toni West and Pat West (Leongatha) 43 points cb.

Results; day eight at Yarram Golf Club –First Round Classic, Stroke 18 Hole: A Grade winners: Men Scratch: Stuart Henning (Mirboo North) 74. Handicap: Adrian Jackson (Bairnsdale) 67 net.

Ladies Scratch: Debbie Gorin (Kooringal) 83. Handicap: Sabina Rosser (Keysborough) 74net.

B Grade winners: Men Scratch: Ross Thompson (Warragul) 43 points. Handicap: Steve Papworth (Yarram) 40 points. Ladies Scratch: Joan Neate (Ocean Shores 34 points cb). Handicap: Dianne Morosin (Coffs Harbour) 34 points.

C Grade winners: Men Winner: Ian Guthrie (Yarram) 44 points. Runner up: Graeme Manifold (Yarram) 39 points.

Ladies winner: Jeanette Mitchell (Garfield) 41points. Runner up: Ann Newman (Tally Valley Q) 38 points.

Results; day nine at Mirboo North Golf Club – Second Round Classic, Stroke 18 Hole: A Grade winners: Men Scratch: Brett McKnight (Meeniyan) 75 gross. Handicap: Paul Delaney (Welshpool) 68 net).

Ladies Scratch: Heather Harley (Kooringal) 85 gross. Handicap: Toni West (Leongatha) 76 net.

B Grade winners: Men winner: Laurie McDonald (Broadford) 39 points. Runner up: Joe Kus (Mirboo North) 36 points.

Ladies winner: Sue Trail Mirboo North 37 points. Runner up: Jenny Coleman (Marysville) 32 points.

C Grade winners: Men winner: Richie Taylor (Mirboo North) 41 points. Runner up: Ray Newman (Tally Valley Q) 35 points cb. Ladies winner: Jill White (Mirboo North) 38 points.

Runner up: Trish Eldridge (Warburton) 37 points.

Pair of winners: Peter Wilson and Lloyd Hemphill won Daryle Gregg: won the the Col Heppell 4BBB Qualifying event.

Thursday Single Stableford at the Meeniyan on the members draw.

EvMeeniyan eryone should come out on a Golf Club.

DESPITE the men’s annual trip away, there were good fields for each day of play this week.

Col Stewart owned the mid week competitions winning on Tuesday with 37 points, then backing up with a runner up trophy on Thursday with 40 points.

Lloyd Hemphill was most consistent losing the runner up trophy on Tuesday to Bruce Betts on a count back, but taking out the Saturday competition with vice captain Peter Wilson with a great 50 points between them.

Round of the week however went to Daryle Gregg for his Thursday score of 42 points.

All players expected the pair of Col Stewart and Bruce Betts to be runaway victors on Saturday’s Col Heppell 4BBB Qualifying event, however they were beaten by eight stokes by the pair of Peter Wilson and Lloyd Hemphill scoring 50 points.

Reiner Kestenich was the unlucky member to miss out

Saturday from now on as the amount is becoming very interesting.

Results: Tuesday, February 21: Single Stableford.

Winner: Col Stewart (23) 37 points.

Runner up: Bruce Betts (36) points on a count back to Lloyd Hemphill (24).

Nearest the pin: second Reg Hannay; 11th Gavin Price.

Best nine: Lloyd Hemphill 19 points.

Thursday, February 23: Single Stableford.

Winner: Daryle Gregg (23) 42 points.

Runner up: Col Stewart (22) 40 points.

Nearest the pin: 14th Bob McGeary.

Best nine: Ron Findlay (19) 20 points.

Saturday, February 25: Col Heppell 4BBB Qualifying.

Winners: Lloyd Hemphill/ Peter Wilson 50 points.

Runners up: Brad Wright/

Tuesday winner: Col Stewart won the Single Stableford at the Meeniyan Golf Club.

Paul Robinson 46 points on a count back to Reg Hannay/ Ross Batton.

Down the line: Reg Hannay/Ross Batton; Winno Reilly/Bill Pratt 44 points’ Henry Mueller/Jeff Wilson 44 points Pro pin: Mat Vanboven.

Nearest the Pin: second Reg Hannay.

The club thanked the sponsor for their generous donation.

Wonthaggi ON Wednesday, 22 players had a round of stableford while at the same time the semi finals of the 4BBB Board event were also being battled out The A Grade was a great tussle with Marg Ryan (25) 41 and Ally Adams (11) 41, both having a day out.

On a countback, Marg Ryan was awarded the winner prize but great scores by both girls.

B Grade was also a countback decider with a fight between president Chris Hamilton (33) 36 and captain Maree Anderson (29) 36. As Maree said at presentations, she is always the lady, and Chris was the winner in that countback decision.

Birdies on the day were Jan Beaumont fifth and Ally Adams 14th.

Wonthaggi winners: A Grade winner Marg Ryan and B Grade winner Chris Hamilton were congratulated for their efforts last week.

NTP on second was Di Grimmond and eighth was Jan Beaumont, BDL went to A. Adams 41, M. Anderson 36, I. Ruby 35, S. Patullo 35, R. Wilkinson 32, J. Beaumont 32, S. Piasente 31 and M. Masterman 31.

Mirboo North WEDNESDAY ladies, February 22 Opening Day, Nine Hole Ambrose Sponsor: Hal and Jeanne St Ellen.

Winners: Nicole Allen, Wendy Gervasi and Marie Ward.

NTPs: fourth Sandra Hughes and sixth Mandy Kuhne.

Thursday, February 23: Open Stableford Winner: Joe Kus (16) 41 points.

DTLs: Josh Robbins (21) 39 points, Ray Matthews (10) 39 points, and Garry Opening Day: the winners Shandley (14) 38 points. of the ladies’ event were Pro pin: Ray Matthews.

Nicole Allen, Wendy GerSaturday, February 25: Stableford. vasi and Marie Ward, who Winner: Joe Smeriglio (19) 41 points. are pictured with sponsor DTLs: Chris Bracecamp 38 points, Jeanne St Ellen.

Joe Kus 37 points, and Neil Whitelaw 36 points.

NTPs: fourth Terry Bradshaw, sixth Right, In action: Neil RutMal Payne, 13th Jim Kidd, and 16th Ray ledge on the first tee at the Mirboo North Golf Club.

Matthews.

Second shot NTP fifth Mal Payne.

Results of the semi final knockout were Geraldine Prentice and Betty Bowmar defeated Annie Tschiderer and Jacqueline Loughran, while Anne Walker and Catherine Bolding won on the 18th over Pam Hanley and Pam Russell.

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

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Drafters flock to Powlett River Downs COMPETITORS travelled for long distances to come to the beautiful property of Allen and Leanne Mitchell for this year’s campdraft at Powlett River Downs.

Competitor: Lance Creek’s Casey Cambridge participated in the Powlett River Downs campdraft on her horse BB.

Spectators: from left, Kilcunda’s Sharon and John Clay, and Hayley and Wayne Bongers had a seat close to the arena to watch the campdraft at Powlett River Downs.

Committee member Gordon Humphrey took the privilege of judging the first event for the weekend being the ladies.

He had 67 women and their horses front up to him and the nice Hereford weaners that Allen and Leanne had donated for this event, being a shoot out, with only one run each.

The girls gave it their best shot. Jenny Neave and her horse Bonita and Kim Blanch on May were both sitting on an 87, so a run off was called.

Jenny and Bonita were able to hold it together to take the blue ribbon.

Next up, Steve Ryder took up the whip to judge the Russell Scott memorial draft.

This draft is run in memory of one of the founding members. His sons were there to be able to watch this draft and present the beautiful whip donated by Russ Bradley and made by Ken Fraser, as well as a rug and $1000 prize money, to the eventual winner (after over 250 runs) Mark Ruff on his horse Martha.

Ken Boulton riding Tina Arena was hot on his heel’s only one point behind, with three other riders coming third, only two points off the lead.

Next up was the Max and Barb Jelbart memorial open draft.

This draft is also in memo-

ry of the biggest cattle donors, who supported the event for nearly as long as the draft has been operating.

Mark Ruff took the reins to judge the 140 competitors in this event, using the Jelbart cattle.

Sixteen riders were able to achieve a score of 88 or better to make the final.

Darren Towns on Boss and Evan Hiscock on Nix were hard to separate, both having a score of 180. A run off was had with Darren winning the open with a 267.

With the horses rugged and watered, dinner was supplied by the Dalyston Football Club.

Sunday morning saw a few sore heads, but all emerged to start by 7am with the Vince McRae memorial maiden draft, in memory of one of the first drovers who never competed but would come and move cattle around the property, before cattle had to be trucked in.

Young Evan Hiscock took the job of judging the maid event, and had the riders going threw in about 50 an hour.

Eventually 20 of the 187 were taken into the final. Lincoln Adams riding Dixie was able to clearly win from second place getter Vicki Hiscock taking the red ribbon on her horse my flurry.

Next up Erick Joosten took the whip to judge the up and coming riders in the Under 13.

He was patient and gave the children encouragement.

Angus Edgar on his horse Goose was able to put on a great show, getting a score of 86 to take the blue ribbon from Aalish O’Hara on Claire.

The Under 17s was also judged by Erick Joosten. Nineteen riders fronted up to have their much awaited run.

Rachael Boyce on Heaven ‘n’ Oak put an exceptionally nice run to score an 87 and win the blue ribbon.

Laney Towns on Boss with

an 85 came in second, and Sharnie Bechaz was third.

The last event for the weekend was an open event judged by Darren Towns; 140 riders fronted up, with 19 riders making the final on the big cattle.

Ian Henstberger on his horse preacher won with a 177, with Matt Holz on Grace on a 176 coming second and Ken Boulton on Cann I on a 173.

With the event finished and the trucks, cars and floats leaving the ground’s for another year, the hard working committee eventually got to sit back and relax.

The committee thanked all involved in the campdraft, including cattle donors, the Jelbart family, M. Garnham, Alan and Leanne Mitchell, the sponsors, cattle carriers, the caterers, and also all the competitors that took to helping with the side gate and front gate.

Focused: Dumbalk’s Charlie Hengstberger competed in the Powlett River Downs campdraft on Saturday morning.

Woolamai excites racegoers FOLLOWING its cup day success, Woolamai Race Club enjoyed another large crowd on Saturday.

In ideal racing conditions, six races were held throughout the afternoon.

It was another excellent family day event, with Pockets the Clown making an appearance and a jumping castle

available on the day.

An exciting form guide was included with Golden Ire competing in race one. Golden Ire is a competitor for Horse of the Year.

Another favourite, The Flying Doormat, was in race two.

The Dalyston Football Netball Club was among the race goers, having one of the biggest group bookings on the day.

With just one more race meet to go for the season (March 18), the track is in fine condition with good rain keeping it in order.

The club has had some excellent group bookings in the lead up to its final event.

Stony Creek Racing Club has its Cup Day event coming up next, scheduled for March 12.

Great win: jockey Reece Goodwin and horse Code It were well in front to win race three.

Day out: Wonthaggi’s Abby Butler and Jack Osbaldeston enjoyed their Saturday afternoon at the Woolamai Races.

Stunning: from left, Wonthaggi’s Emma Ton and Renee Alexander looked beautiful at the Woolamai Races on Saturday.

Lots of fun: Woolamai’s Alexie Carmichael and Cape Paterson’s Leit Rivers enjoyed the children’s activities at the Woolamai Races.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 51

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thestar.com.au

Triathlon challenges athletes INVERLOCH delivered perfect racing temperatures for the 2017 twilight triathlon on Saturday.

Competing in a 500 metre swim, a 25 kilometre bike ride and a five kilometre run, there were 76 people registered for the event.

Starting from the jetty through to Anderson’s Inlet, the swim was fast with the outgoing current still strong.

A fresh south east wind proved to be a challenge – even for the seasoned athletes and during the bike ride, and during the run there were some wobbly legs.

Melbourne’s Jonney Yeates demonstrated how to coolly turn a deficit into a lead in transition.

He outran his competitors to win the triathlon in just over an hour.

Aidan Rich came in second and the ever consistent local athlete Matt Sullivan was a minute back in third.

The 25 to 29 year age group was the biggest in the women’s field with Hilary Meyer crossing the line first.

Brittany Campbell finished second and Katherine Henderson came in third.

Barracuda participation was scarce with some recovering from their efforts in Geelong.

Damien King, Rod McCall, Andy Chisholm and Rick Whitehouse were among the locals with veteran Jenny Merrick again putting in a strong performance.

The Barracudas thanked their sponsors for helping to run the event, as well as race director Deb Rielly and the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club.

Deb said it was fantastic to see so many new athletes competing this year.

“It was a perfect afternoon and it was great seeing the bystanders there cheering on the athletes,” she said.

“It was challenging but the winner smashed it out. Everyone did so well and will now be gearing up for the fun run (this weekend).”

The day ended with a presentation in which most of the participants were recognised for their amazing efforts.

Range of participants: from left, Phillip Good luck: from left, race director Deb Riel- Island’s Jenny Merrick and Herns Oak’s SoRace champs: from left, Wonthaggi’s Matt ly pumps up Phillip Island athlete Jenny Mer- phie Fontain were the oldest and youngest Sullivan was third to finish the Inverloch rick prior to the Inverloch Twilight Triathlon. participants in the Inverloch Triathlon.

Twilight Triathlon and Jonney Yeates was first. Matt was the first local to finish.

Great effort: from left, Melbourne’s Katherine Henderson, Latrobe’s Hilary Meyer and Melbourne’s Brittany Campbell were the first girls over the line after the Inverloch Twilight Ready to go: athletes enter the water before the 500 metre swim in the Inverloch triathlon on Saturday.

Triathlon.

Island favourite wins double MOTORCYCLISTS roared through South Gippsland towns again on the weekend on their way to the first round of the World Superbikes Championships that attracted 60,000 people for the three day event at the Phillip Island track.

Super winner: Northern Island’s Jonathan Rea made it a double at Phillip Island on Sunday Reigning world champion Northern Island’s winning the first two World Superbike races for the season opener for the Kawasaki team. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki) made it a double at the Photo credit-Graeme Brown.

Island, his home away from home as he is married to Phillip Island’s Tatia Weston and spends summer at the Island where he is considered a local.

“To win two last-lap battles here is pretty tough so I am so happy,” said Rea. “We worked so hard in the off-season to work on tyre conservation, and my rear tyre still looks good on the left side after race two so that bodes well for the rest of the season.

“I just wanted to come here and start my year in a good way, and to leave with 50 points is very nice.”

It’s the second consecutive clean sweep for Rea at the flowing GP circuit and he now also joins Carl Fogarty, Aussie Troy Bayliss and Noriyuki Haga in the exclusive WorldSBK 40race winning club.

In the World Supersport race Australia’s Anthony West placed third in an absolute thriller West said the result “was amazing” considerIsland honour: winner of the World Superbike season opener at Phillip Island Kawasaki’s Joning the difficult circumstances. athan Rea was all smiles on the podium with his impressive trophy for his win in Race One.

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

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thestar.com.au

• LDCA Division One

Final’s chance opens for Town THE defeat of three of the top four A1 cricket sides has thrown a lifeline for Leongatha

Town to make a last ditch effort at finals.

Fourth placed OMK was a surprise loser to Phillip

Tough day: Ilan Osman plays and misses for Korumburra. He went on to make the top score of 28 opening.

Island while third placed Inverloch lost to Town.

In another upset top side Korumburra Cobras went down to Wonthaggi Club.

Club is now taking over the mantle of ladder leader.

The equation seems pretty simple for Town; defeat Phillip Island in the last round two-dayer, March 4 and 11, and a final’s spot is virtually assured. The match is also being played on the Scorpions home deck but the Sharks will be no pushover, after a solid win over OMK on the weekend.

This Saturday also sees a cut throat mini final being played out between OMK and Inverloch at Outtrim with the loser out of the finals.

On Saturday Town set up its chance with a solid win 175 to Inverloch’s reply of just 103.

It was the Sri Lankans again in the thick of things for Town as Amila Ratnaike took 3/27 and Madura Weerasinghe Silva claiming 3/29.

Inverloch never seemed comfortable at any stage with a regular loss of wickets with only Ben Thomas down the order with 26 (and top scorer “Extras” with 29) making any impression.

Club also defended its modest 179 to defeat Korumburra all out for just 119.

Ilan Osman opened for

the Cobras with 28 with Shane Dole 14, Kyle Dorman 14 and Peter Edwards 14 all falling without putting together a partnership.

There were plenty of good figures with the ball with Ryan G Thomas taking 3/26, Jakeb Thomas 2/14 and James Sherrin 2/23 on a tough day for the batsmen.

The Phillip Island v.

OMK one day game saw OMK bat first and make 7/160 from its 40 overs with Tom Wyatt best with 45 and opener Kris Kerr with 35 gave the Diggers a reasonable score.

The Island’s Geoff Odgers claimed 2/34.

In reply Phillip Island scored 5/185 to win quite comfortably. Eli Richards made 44 and Tony Hornsby 34 in a solid team effort with the bat. OMK’s Jamie Dewell took 2/33.

Nerrena almost climbed off the bottom of the ladder with its win 9/275 to Kilcunda Bass’s 207.

Nerrena managed to get Daniel Mock out for a low score of 17 but it was Andrew Donohue who stepped up for Killy Bass with a brilliant knock of 119. An unfortunate run out cost Donohue his wicket just as Killy was pushing runs for a victory.

After Donohue went out with the score on 197, Killy lost 4/8 and the chase was

over.

Josh Trease bowled a marathon 23.5 overs, taking a fine 5/51 for his efforts and Adam Trotto took out the first three bats, claiming 3/46.

Division 1 PHILLIP ISLAND d OMK 1st innings OMK K. Kerr c. L. Cleeland b. G. Odgers .........................35 A. McKinnon r.o. .....................10 J. Dewell b. G. Odgers ...............0 T. Wyatt c. b. S. Kirton ...........................45 A. Miller lbw. b. C. Keerthisinghe ..............15 J. Cochrane b. M. Dennerley .....0 D. Lloyd r.o. .............................20 J. Lamers n.o. ...........................10 P. Dell n.o. ................................12 Extras ......................................13 Total .............................7/160 (cc) Bowling: S. Kirton 1/33, D. Johnston 0/18, G. Odgers 2/34, C. Keerthisinghe 1/39, M. Dennerley 1/22, B. Johnston 0/7.

1st innings Phillip Island M. Kinghom c. J. Lamers b. J. Dewell ............................8 L. Cleeland c. J. Dewell b. T. Wyatt ............................23 E. Richards n.o. ........................44 B. Johnston b. J. Dewell...........13 T. Hornsby c. K. Kerr b. P. Dell ...............................34 J. Keating r.o. ...........................27 C. Keerthisinghe n.o. ...............15 Extras ......................................21 Total ....................................5/185 Bowling: J. Cochrane 0/29, N. Auddino 0/40, T. Wyatt 1/32, J. Dewell 2/33, P. Dell 1/41, K. Kerr 0/6, A. McKinnon 0/0.

NERRENA d KILCUNDA-BASS 1st innings Nerrena S. Lester c. J. Markland b. A. Wells ............................29 D. Symmons c. J. Markland

b. D. Mock ...........................53 H. Funnell b. A. Donohue ..........6 T. Wightman lbw. b. J. Tregear ..........................53 J. Hoy c. J. Markland b. D. Mock .............................0 G. Murphy r.o........................... 11 D. Baldi c. A. Wells b. J. Mahood.........................28 P. Matheson n.o. .......................63 A. Trotto n.o. ..............................2 S. Helms b. A. Wells ................10 J. Trease c. J. Rosenow b. J. Dakin ..............................5 Extras ......................................15 Total .......................... 9/275 (dec) Bowling: A. Wells 2/73, D. Mock 2/63, C. Peckett 0/14, A. Donohue 1/53, J. Tregear 1/30, J. Mahood 1/17, J. Dakin 1/18.

1st innings Kilcunda-Bass D. Mock c. P. Matheson b. A. Trotto ...........................17 J. Markland b. A. Trotto .............6 A. Donohue r.o. ...................... 119 J. Dakin c. H. Funnell b. A. Trotto .............................0 A. Larcombe c. D. Baldi b. J. Trease............................25 J. Tregear b. T. Wightman ..........4 J. Rosenow c. A. Trotto b. J. Trease............................12 A. Wells b. J. Trease .................10 J. Mahood n.o.............................5 C. Peckett b. J. Trease ................0 C. Davidson lbw. b. J. Trease..............................0 Extras ........................................9 Total .......................................207 Bowling: J. Trease 5/51, A. Trotto 3/46, T. Wightman 1/46, J. Hoy 0/26, G. Murphy 0/18, D. Symmons 0/13.

WON CLUB d KORUMBURRA 1st innings Won Club 179 1st innings Korumburra I. Osman lbw. b. M. McCall ........................28 D. Salmon r.o. ............................0 S. Dole c. K. Brann b. J. Thomas .........................14 K. Rigby b. J. Thomas................0

K. Dorman lbw. b. J. Sheerin ..........................14 L. Zanchetta b. R. Thomas .........5 P. Edwards lbw. b. R. Thomas ........................14 J. Richards c. J. Wallace b. R. Thomas ..........................8 M. Giles c. S. Huitema b. J. Sheerin ............................3 D. Wyhoon n.o. ........................10 P. Dunlevie b. R. Birkett ............2 Extras ......................................21 Total ....................................... 119 Bowling: R. Thomas 3/26, R. Birkett 1/14, Z. Macdermid 0/13, J. Thomas 2/14, J. Sheerin 2/23, M. McCall 1/9.

INVERLOCH def by TOWN 1st innings Town 175 1st innings Inverloch B. Debono lbw. b. M. Borschman ..................13 N. Brayley c. L. Smith b. A. Ratnaike.........................0 D. Newman r.o. ..........................7 W. Taberner lbw. b. A. Ratnaike.........................0 K. Rotthier c&b. A. Ratnaike ...13 T. McQualter b. A. Hickey .........5 H. Smith c. A. Hickey b. M. Weerasinghe Silva ........2 W. Williams c. M. Borschman b. M. Weerasinghe Silva ........0 L. Rankin c. M. Smith b. M. Weerasinghe Silva ........2 B. Thomas b. J. Hume ..............26 R. Thomas n.o. ...........................6 Extras ......................................29 Total .......................................103 Bowling: A. Ratnaike 3/27, M. Weerasinghe Silva 3/29, A. Hickey 1/7, M. Borschman 1/6, J. Hume 1/7, S. Fixter 0/5.

2nd innings Town M. Davies n.o. ............................0 J. Hume n.o. ...............................0 Extras ........................................0 Total .................................0/0 (cc) Bowling: B. Thomas 0/0, W. Williams 0/0, L. Rankin 0/0.

• LDCA A Grade Division Two

MDU earns shot at top four Bowlers on top: Ryan B Thomas toiled well for Wonthaggi Club, taking 3/26.

Leongatha District Cricket Association Umpire Appointments EVANS PETROLEUM Round 14 - March 4 & 11 Home team Grade A1 Korumburra OMK Kilcunda-Bass Town Grade A2 MDU Koon-L/RSL Glen Alvie Bye Grade B1 Nerrena Phillip Island Won Club Inverloch Grade B2 Won Miners Foster Imperials Bye Grade C1 Korumburra Inverloch Phillip Island Town Grade C2 Poowong-Loch Glen Alvie Korumburra OMK Bye

Away Team

Ground

Umpire

v v v v

Nerrena Inverloch Won Club Phillip Island

K Turf Outt Bass Rec SP 1

G. Laird C. Salmon G. Goss T. Rogers

v v v v

Poowong-Loch Meen Imperials L Turf Foster Butch W Won Miners

G. Wightman G. Adams J. Curry

v v v v

MDU Town Kilcunda-Bass OMK

A. Stride A. Jordan L. White M. Heenan

v v v v

Glen Alvie Won Rec I.Richards Korumburra FGC N. Graydon Koon-L/RSL EC N. Barnes Poowong-Loch

v v v v

Nerrena Won Club OMK MDU

KSC Inv Rhyll SP 2

I. Thomas V. Baskerville L. O’Brien N. Grabham

v v v v v

Kilcunda-Bass Won Club Phillip Island Koon-L/RSL Town

Poow GA WSC Velo

TBA TBA M. Wishart K. Scrimshaw

Nerr Cowes McMhn I Turf

Any person interested in umpiring contact Graham Laird 0408 454 741.

Please note all games start at 1pm.

To all umpires a meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14 at Bairs Hotel, Leongatha to arrange finals. All requested to attend.

MDU has defeated fourth placed Wonthaggi Miners to throw open the final’s race in A2 cricket.

The Demons are now level on points with Miners and with Miners having the last round bye, all MDU has to do to make finals is defeat Poowong Loch in the final round which starts this Saturday.

This will be no easy feat however as Poowong Loch sits second on the ladder but the fate of the season is in MDU’s hands.

The Demons earnt its victory when it was able to dismiss Miners for 152 and in reply scored 5/156 in this one day fixture due to the previous week’s washout for these two teams only.

Miner’s top bats were Josh Andrighetto with 49 and opener Blake Andrighetto 22. The Demons’ Michael Olden took 3/15 while Darien Mathews claimed 2/18.

In reply MDU’s opener Gary Webster made 36 and Nick Eddy finished not out on 37. Miners were best served with the ball by Clint Honeysett 2/13 and James Honeysett 2/32.

Glen Alvie 9/168 just scraped home against Imperials 8/167.

Glen Alvie just in the four was expected to win but with Imperials fighting to keep final’s chances alive the match came down to the

wire.

Replying to Imps 8/167 Glen Alvie started badly with opener Paul Palmer out for a duck. Steven Smith 27 and Jamie Glen a match winning 62 then added 93 before Glen fell. John Reid made a nice 28 to push things along but a collapse saw Glen Alvie lose three wickets with the score bolted on 148, all falling to Jack Ginnane.

When Joseph Hales went for 9 Glen Alvie was 9/164 still needing four runs for victory. Rohan Slade held his nerve and made the runs , finishing 9 not out.

Jack Ginnane finished with 5/29 for Imps and Mark Lafferty claimed 4/60.

In the other match Foster put up quite an effort but its 218 was short of the mark set by Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL 9/242.

Richard Johnston’s 77 for Foster was the standout.

He and Nathan Clark 20 scored a middle order partnership of 76 which gave the Tigers some hope.

Jason Kennedy’s 5/67 for the Cougars was excellent as too was Jayke Hoy’s 3/33.

Koony and Poowong Loch are likely to hold the top two spots on the A2 ladder even if they are defeated this last round.

Division 2 FOSTER def by KOONWARRA-L/RSL 1st innings Koonwarra-L/RSL 9/242 (cc)

1st innings Foster M. Lynch c. S. Hughes b. J. Kennedy..........................9 M. Jones lbw. b. J. Hoy .................................8 G. Watkins lbw. b. J. Guinan ..........................19 J. Toner c. S. Hughes..................6 N. Clarke c. J. Hale b. J. Kennedy........................20 R. Johnston c. P. Stow b. J. Hoy ...............................77 J. Chaseling b. J. Kennedy .........9 F. Griggs c. J. Hughes b. B. Perry ..............................2 J. Weston c. D. Clark b. J. Hoy ...............................16 O. Straw n.o. ............................18 H. Griggs c. J. Hughes b. J. Kennedy........................ 11 Extras ......................................23 Total .......................................218 Bowling: J. Hoy 3/33, B. Perry 1/30, J. Kennedy 5/67, J. Guinan 1/56, J. Hale 0/15, P. Stow 0/8.

WON MINERS def by MDU 1st innings Won Miners A. Honeysett c. T. Harris b. M. Olden ..........................19 B. Andrighetto c. G. Webster b. M. Patching ......................22 P. Nelson b. T. Harris ...............10 J. Andrighetto lbw. b. M. Olden ..........................49 J. Piasente b. M. Olden ............12 A. Zanella lbw. b. N. Eddy ..............................2 J. Honeysett b. M. Olden ...........0 C. Honeysett b. N. Eddy ............0 C. Thomas c. M. Olden b. D. Mathews ........................6 J. Rumbold n.o. ..........................9 J. Loos b. D. Mathews ...............1 Extras ......................................22 Total .......................................152 Bowling: T. Harris 1/40, N. Eddy 2/24, M. Olden 3/15, D. Mathews 2/18, M. Patching 1/15, M. Olden 1/13, M. Cantwell 0/24.

1st innings MDU G. Webster c. C. Thomas b. J. Honeysett ......................36 D. Mathews c. B. Andrighetto b. J. Honeysett ......................19 T. Harris b. J. Loos ...................15 N. Eddy n.o. .............................37

M. Olden lbw. b. C. Honeysett..................... 11 J. Sinclair c. B. Andrighetto b. C. Honeysett.......................0 M. Martin n.o. ............................9 Extras ......................................29 Total ....................................5/156 Bowling: J. Loos 1/31, J. Rumbold 0/21, J. Piasente 0/27, A. Honeysett 0/22, J. Honeysett 2/32, C. Honeysett 2/13.

IMPERIALS def by GLEN ALVIE 1st innings Imperials 8/167 1st innings Glen Alvie P. Palmer c. A. Meyer b. J. Ginnane ..........................0 S. Smith b. M. Lafferty ............27

J. Glen lbw. b. J. Ginnane ........................62 J.A. Reid c. R. McLennan b. M. Lafferty .......................28 J.R. Reid b. J. Ginnane...............7 A. Hamilton c&b. M. Lafferty ...4 D. Hales b. J. Ginnane .............13 S. Watson lbw. b. J. Ginnane ..........................0 R. Slade n.o. ...............................9 J. Hales c. K. Gray b. M. Lafferty .........................9 K. Simpson n.o...........................0 Extras ........................................9 Total .............................9/168 (cc) Bowling: J. Ginnane 5/29, L. Rogers 0/38, M. Lafferty 4/60, D. Ginnane 0/16, T. Sauvarin 0/20.

LDCA ladders A Grade Division 1 Won Club .............................. 114 Korumburra .........................108 Inverloch .................................84 OMK........................................78 Town.........................................78 Phillip Island ............................54 Kilcunda-Bass ..........................54 Nerrena .....................................54 A Grade Division 2 Koonwarra-L/RSL ...............102 Poowong-Loch ........................96 Glen Alvie................................78 Won Miners ............................66 MDU ........................................66 Imperials ..................................54 Foster..........................................6 B Grade Division 1 Won Club ..............................120 Town ...................................... 116 OMK...................................... 114 Phillip Island...........................90 MDU ........................................68 Nerrena .....................................54 Kilcunda-Bass ..........................42 Inverloch ..................................36 B Grade Division 2 Poowong-Loch ......................120 Korumburra ......................... 110 Koonwarra-L/RSL .................72 Won Miners ............................66 Glen Alvie ................................50 Foster........................................42

Imperials ..................................24 C Grade Division 1 Phillip Island......................... 114 OMK...................................... 114 Won Club ..............................108 Korumburra ...........................92 Town.........................................90 Nerrena .....................................60 MDU ........................................42 Inverloch ..................................12 C Grade Division 2 Phillip Island...........................96 Glen Alvie................................84 OMK........................................84 Won Club ................................84 Poowong-Loch .........................72 Kilcunda-Bass ..........................60 Korumburra ..............................60 Koonwarra L/RSL....................48 Town.........................................36 Under 16 East Zone MDU ......................................108 Korumburra ...........................84 Town ........................................72 OMK........................................60 Nerrena .....................................36 Koonwarra L/RSL......................0 Under 16 West Zone Won Club ................................96 Poowong-Loch ........................84 Glen Alvie................................84 Inverloch .................................60 Phillip Island ............................36

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 53

CRICKET | SPORT

thestar.com.au • LDCA B Grade Division One

Creed ton sees Diggers home IN a confidence booster as cricket approaches finals, OMK 9/248 defeated Phillip Island 132 on the strength of a Noel Creed ton.

Creed scored 130 runs with Luke Jones 34 and Russell White 23 to score a fine win. Dylan McMeekin scored 17 runs in a 76 run partnership with Creed as they past the Island’s score.

Asitha Samarawickrama took 3/21 and Clint Wilson 3/35 in a good effort for the Sharks.

Inverloch 156 came close but in the end Town won this match by 12 runs. Inverloch was 5/146 at one stage and looking good but lost the remaining wickets for just 10

runs to capitulate.

Top Stingray’s bat was Amad Mujtaba with 73 and Lucas Anderson 22. For Town, Al Fixter took 4/17 from 13 overs and Sam Clark 2/36.

Nerrena scored a win, replying to Kilcunda Bass’s 122 with 6/203.

Cameron Baudinette was best with 56 not out for the Red Caps and Ben Croatto 47. Killy Bass’s best bowlers were Daniel Blackney 2/38 and Dean Pipicelli 2/21.

MDU and Club fought out a one dayer with Club 161 too good for United 118.

Club’s Scott Williams 38 and Liam Sawyer 34 were the best run makers while Craig Hoober claimed 3/32 and Simon McRae 3/51 for MDU. In reply MDU’s 118 saw Ben Davey score 26 and Troy

Sinclair 21. Club’s Scott Williams 3/33 and Alex Geyer 3/32 were the key wicket takers.

The top four in this division is secure with Club, Town, OMK and Phillip Island to fight out finals.

Details KILCUNDA-BASS def by NERRENA 1st innings Kilcunda-Bass 122 1st innings Nerrena L. Fisher b. D. Blackney ..........14 A. Harrison lbw. b. D. Blackney........................8 J. Kelly r.o. ...............................21 J. Beckwith lbw. b. D. Pipicelli .......................20 C. Baudinette n.o......................56 R. Clark c. D. Blackney b. D. Pipicelli .......................20 B. Croatto c. A. Batty b. D. Bettles..........................47 N. Trotto n.o. ..............................2 Extras ......................................15 Total ....................................6/203 Bowling: D. Bettles 1/64, D.

Blackney 2/38, R. Duff 0/27, D. Pipicelli 2/21, H. Grace 0/8, S. Tapscott 0/31.

OMK d PHILLIP ISLAND 1st innings Phillip Island 132 1st innings OMK R. White c. M. Wright b. P. Cleary ...........................23 L. Jones c. Z. Brown b. A. Samarawickrama .........34 N. Cant c. Z. Brown b. A. Samarawickrama ...........5 D. Creed c&b.

A. Samarawickrama ...............0 J. Paterson b. C. Wilson .............5 N. Creed r.o. ...........................130 D. McMeekin c. J. Sorarti b. C. Wilson..........................17 J. Greenwood lbw. b. C. Wilson............................0 E. Lamers n.o. ..........................13 P. Green c. C. Wilson b. Z. Brown ............................4 R. Dixon n.o. ..............................0 Extras ......................................17 Total ....................................9/248 Bowling: S. Boyack 0/10, M. Young 0/43, M. Wright 0/13, B. Christopher 0/19, A. Samarawickrama 3/21, P. Cleary 1/25,

C. Wilson 3/35, Z. Brown 1/41, J. Sorarti 0/29.

TOWN d INVERLOCH 1st innings Town 8/168 (dec) 1st innings Inverloch A. Brayley c. J. Dean b. S. Clark ..............................0 E. Cousins c. W. Turner b. S. Clark ..............................6 D. Cashin c. J. Hume b. A. Fixter ...........................18 L. Anderson c. Z. Trease b. A. Fixter ...........................22 A. Mujtaba lbw. b. A. Fixter ...........................73 R. Sparkes c&b. J. Bolge ...........8 C. Fisher c. M. Borschman b. J. Hume ............................20 S. Hayes lbw. b. A. Fixter .............................5 J. Bowring c. Z. Trease b. A. Fixter .............................0 A. Box n.o. .................................0 Extras ........................................4 Total .......................................156 Bowling: S. Clark 2/36, Z. Trease 0/20, S. Browne 0/5, W. Turner 1/14, A. Fixter 4/17, J. Bolge 1/34, M. Borschman 0/1, C. McGannon 1/16, J. Hume 1/14.

2nd innings Town A. Fixter c. E. Cousins b. L. Anderson ........................0 J. Bolge b. A. Mujtaba ...............5 S. Clark b. C. Fisher ...................4 C. McGannon c. L. Anderson b. C. Fisher ...........................10 M. Borschman n.o. .....................5 M. Wilson n.o. ............................4 Extras ........................................2 Total ......................................4/30 Bowling: L. Anderson 1/10, C. Fisher 2/14, A. Mujtaba 1/4.

MDU def by WON CLUB 1st innings Won Club B. Osborne c. M. Hoober b. P. Vine ..............................14 D. Turton b. S. McRae ............. 11 L. Sawyer b. S. McRae ............34 L. McLean c. C. Harris b. S. McRae ............................1 A. Geyer b. C. Hoober .............10 R. Geyer c. W. Prosser b. C. Hoober ...........................0 D. Herbert c. b. C. Hoober .........................19 M. Davey lbw. b. C. Hoober ...........................1 S. Williams c. b. C. Harris ...........................38

L. McGuirk b. P. Vine ..............18 B. Evans n.o. ..............................1 Extras ......................................15 Total .......................................161 Bowling: P. Vine 2/39, C. Harris 2/32, S. McRae 3/51, C. Hoober 3/32.

1st innings MDU W. Prosser c. D. Turton b. L. McLean ........................19 C. Harris lbw. b. L. McGuirk ........................8 T. Zukovskis b. A. Geyer ...........8 C. Hoober lbw. b. S. Williams .......................12 S. McRae c. R. Geyer b. L. McLean ..........................7 T. Sinclair b. S. Williams .........21 P. Vine r.o. ..................................1 B. Davey b. A. Geyer ...............26 M. Hoober c. M. Davey b. S. Williams .........................0 C. Brown n.o. .............................3 J. Palmer c. R. Geyer b. A. Geyer .............................0 Extras ......................................13 Total ....................................... 118 Bowling: S. Williams 3/33, A. Geyer 3/32, L. McGuirk 1/18, L. McLean 2/24, B. Evans 0/2.

• LDCA B Grade Division Two

Glen Alvie blows its chances A FINE win by Foster 9/312 to defeat Glen Alvie 9/200 was enough to dint Glen Alvie’s hopes of making finals.

Glen Alvie’s Peter Roberts opened with 54 and first drop Jay Tiziani made 31 but Glen Alvie fell well short. Foster’s Paul Jervies took 4/67.

In a top four battle Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL’s 221 was not enough as Wonthaggi Miners replied with 8/242.

Opener Gerard Kent made a fine century, 129, with Mathew Hibbins 24 giving the Miners an opening stand of 130.

Wayne Chapman made 29 and Neil Waters 24 to make sure of the victory.

In the other match Poowong Loch 186 had no trouble with Korumburra’s 101.

Trevor Allen top scored

with 30 then Jason Hibbs 28; despite the slow run rate it was Poowong Loch all the way.

For the Cobras, Shayne Harland claimed 2/18. Imperials had the bye.

Details KOONWARRA-L/RSL def by WON MINERS 1st innings Koonwarra-L/RSL 221 1st innings Won Miners G. Kent c. B. Hastings b. K. Thorne .......................129 M. Hibbins c. B. Hastings b. J. Hastings ........................24 G. Peters stp. A. Rockall b. K. Thorne ...........................1 W. Chapman c. b. J. Rockall..........................29 N. Waters lbw. b. A. Drury ...........................24 S. Farrington b. J. Rockall .......17 L. Granger c. N. Grimes b. J. Pickersgill .......................0 P. Loos n.o. .................................7 M. Greenway c. A. Drury b. J. Pickersgill .......................1 Extras ......................................10 Total ....................................8/242

Bowling: B. Hastings 0/25, A. Drury 1/50, J. Pickersgill 2/30, J. Moore 0/28, K. Thorne 2/45, J. Hastings 1/32, J. Rockall 2/29.

GLEN ALVIE def by FOSTER 1st innings Foster 9/312 (cc) 1st innings Glen Alvie P. Roberts b. P. Jervies .............54 J. Burke c. P. Jervies b. D. Lacasa............................4 J. Tiziani lbw. b. S. Chaseling .....................31 I. Thorn c. D. Lacasa b. S. Chaseling .......................0 D. Williams c. R. Dower b. P. Jervies...........................25 D. Tiziani b. P. Jervies..............10 P. Gardiner b. A. Starret ...........17 D. Gilbert b. P. Jervies .............28 J. Thomas b. A. Starret ...............7 B. Cox n.o. .................................0 Extras ......................................23 Total .............................9/200 (cc) Bowling: D. Lacasa 1/33, S. Chaseling 2/31, P. Jervies 4.67, G. Tanner 0/25, A. Starret 2/27.

KORUMBURRA def by POOWONG-LOCH 1st innings Korumburra 101 1st innings Poowong-Loch A. Sheedy c. S. Harland b. J. Oxlee ..............................8

K. Miller lbw. b. S. Harland ........................15 T. Allen c. S. Harland b. T. Gray .............................30 N. Allen lbw. b. S. Hayes ...........................15 B. Hall lbw. b. S. Hayes ........................... 11 M. Allen c. H. McNeill b. S. Harland ..........................8 J. Hibbs b. H. McNeill .............28 B. Monson c. H. McNeill b. E. Allaway ........................19 W. Walker b. T. Gray ................10 G. Poynton n.o. ........................15 S. Head b. T. Sorrell ...................9 Extras ......................................18 Total .......................................186 Bowling: H. McNeill 1/10, S. Hayes 2/34, J. Oxlee 1/21, A. Meade 0/34, S. Harland 2/18, M. Olden 0/20, T. Gray 2/23, E. Allaway 1/14, T. Sorrell 1/4.

2nd innings Korumburra S. Harland n.o. .........................16 J. Celebrine n.o. .......................21 Extras ........................................5 Total ...............................0/42 (cc) Bowling: G. Poynton 0/10, S. Head 0/3, W. Walker 0/16, T. Allen 0/3, B. Hall 0/5.

Tigers roar: Shaun Chaseling sends one down for Foster. He finished with 2/31 in Foster’s impressive win.

• Cricket

Junior cricketers take on Warragul THE Leongatha and District Cricket Association Under 12’s and 13’s played Warragul on Sunday, February 26 at Wonthaggi.

The skill level was very high in both teams and the future of both associations looks good. The coaches and man-

agers should be congratulated for the spirit the games were played and the Wonthaggi clubs for its support with venues.

The matches are held to give youngsters a feel of representative cricket in the build up to Junior Country Week which some might be involved in, in the years to come.

Under 13’s Leongatha captains Ethan Lamers and Darcy Hume won the toss and batted on the Wonthaggi turf which was a first time for most of the boys and a great experience.

Leongatha lost a couple of early wickets, Liam Dayson 2, Ethan Lamers 6 then Jacob Whiteside 7 and Tom Crocker

13 added 21 to take the score to 27 before both were dismissed.

Darcy Hume batted well for 23 retired, Tyson Twite 11 retired, Billy Manicaro 2 retired, Jarrah Standish 6 retired, Fraser West, Levi Hickey and Bailey Harvey all failing to score, Luke Walker 1 with Noah Fixter 1 not out and Hunter Tiziani 5 not out. After

Young guns: The LDCA’s Under 12 side that took on Warragul on Sunday was, from left, back, Will Croatto, Ben Hanrahan, Ryan Sinclair, Zac Scholz, Lachie Gill, Harry Hoekstra; front, Patrick Johnston, Jaxon Hayes, Tom Hanily, Jack Butcher (captain), Jake Dennerley, Riley Matthews and Hayden Fincher.

40 over’s Leongatha scored 8 for 81. A solid score against some good bowling and fielding.

Leongatha gave the new ball to Jacob Whiteside who took 1 for 4 and Levi Hickey 0 for 8. Darcy Hume took 0 for 4 and Bailey 0 for 4 but the young spinner Liam Dayson from Phillip Island took 2 for 3 to have Warragul reeling at 5 for 18. But a couple of solid partnerships between Kleeven 11, Wall 10 retired and Caddy 22 helped Warragul to 8 for 92 off 40 overs.

All the players bowled a minimum of three overs Tyson Twite 0 for 7, Luke Walker 1 for 6, Jarrah Standish 0 for 19, Billy Manicaro 0 for 4,Tom Crocker 0 for 4, Noah Fixter 0 for 4, Hunter Tiziani 2 for 20 and Fraser West 0 for 4.

A solid bowling effort by all the boys backed up with some great fielding highlighted by two catches by Tom Crocker and run outs to Hume and West.

Ethan Lamers kept very well standing up over the stumps and has a very bright future with the gloves.

Under 12s The Under 12 side played at McMahon Reserve.

Inverloch’s Jack Butcher was the LDCA captain and did a super job throughout the day.

He won the toss and elected to bat.

Openers Ben Hanrahan and Hayden Fincher started solidly before Fincher was run out after some nice cover drives.

Hanrahan saw off the quality early bowling and retired after 10 overs. He came back later and made quick handy runs at the end to finish with 17.

Butcher did likewise and made an unbeaten 12.

Tom Hanily got the scoreboard ticking over with 19 while Harry Hoekstra, Riley Matthews and Zac Scholz were also unbeaten after their innings, retiring at nine, seven and nine respectively.

The LDCA set 117 against some excellent bowling and fielding from Warragul.

The defence started superbly when Riley Matthews pulled off a sharp run-out on the first ball of the Warragul innings.

Scholz took another wicket on the last ball of the first over when he hit the off stump.

Patrick Johnston, Jaxon Hayes and Riley Matthews were the other wicket takers for the LDCA. Ryan Sinclair bowled beautiful outswingers and finished with 0/5 from his three overs while young pacemen Lachie Gill, Will Croatto and Jake Dennerley also bowled well.

Warragul reached 157 at the end of its 40 overs and despite the result, the LDCA youngsters fielded well and kept up their enthusiasm throughout, pleasing coach Nathan Johnston and manager Sam Matthews.

Coaches Nathan Johnston Under 12’s and Luke Zanchetta Under 13’s were in charge with Jareth Hume overseeing this junior competition, Sam Mathews managed the Under 12’s for Nathan.

Luke and Jareth were very happy with the boy’s efforts and they look forward to next season’s Country Week with the talent available and the attitude towards cricket these boy’s are showing.

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

SPORT |

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Off and on again swim sports THE 2017 Leongatha Primary School swimming carnival will be remembered as the rollercoaster carnival.

It was happening.

It was cancelled.

It was back on again at a new venue.

Leongatha Primary School was fortunate enough to put on the event at SPLASH indoor heated swimming pool in Leongatha.

With less than 24 hours notice students, teachers, aides and parents all came together to make the event work.

On a sunny day, every student had a smile on their face, happy just to get the chance to jump in the pool and enjoy the day.

Johnston broke Wightman’s six year reign of success to become the house champion of 2017.

There were some old and new faces amongst the age champion list this year.

Xavier Bolge 12 year old age champion, Nicolette Wight 11 year old age champion, Rem Dal Pozzo 11 year old age champion and Isaac Bolge 10 year old age champion took home the title for the second, third or fourth time.

While Sophie Carruthers 12 year old age champion, Rahni Matheson nine year old age champion, Hugh Munro nine year old age champion and Eleanor Pedlow 10 year old age champion won their first age champion medals.

“The event ran quite smoothly in the end and that could only happen with everyone putting their hand up to help out,” Leongatha Primary School physical education teacher Joel Cahir said.

In action: students from Leongatha Primary School Grace, Phoebe, Emma and Molly completed the freestyle race at the school swimming Before the race: Leongatha Primary School Grade 5 students Caelan, carnival last Wednesday.

Kyran, River, Ryan and Brodie were at the school swimming carnival ready to make a splash last Wednesday.

Team blue: Grade 6 students Caitlin, Kasey, Shelby, Dakota, Chloe and Katie getting into the carnival spirit at SPLASH last Wednesday.

Go yellow: Grade 5 and 6 students Kinesha, Olivia, Chloe, Devinaty, Kohdi and Alannah dressed to impress at Leongatha Primary School’s swimming carnival at SPLASH indoor swimming pool last Wednesday.

Right, Competitive boys: Leongatha Primary School Grade 6 students Riley, Lachie, Taylor, Aaron and Liam enjoyed the school swimming carnival last Wednesday.

Leongatha win swimming shield LOCAL primary schools went head to head in the interschool swimming carnival on Friday.

Held at the Korumburra Outdoor Pool, Leongatha Primary School shared the spoils and won the shield.

St Laurence’s Primary School took home the Ian Brewster handicap shield.

All schools congratulated the students on their excellent participation and wished the students moving on to the next level good luck.

Young guns: Oscar, Lydia, Zara, Olivia, Audrey, Ada, Max, Grace, Tadgh, Lincoln, Amy, Georgia, James, Harry, Robbie, Aimee and Will Congratulations: Rahni from Lefrom St Laurence’s Primary School were high achievers at the interschool ongatha Primary School was the swimming carnival on Friday.

U/9 age group champion.

Cheer squad: back from left, Mikayla, Cat, Tayla, Sophi, Kate, Emily, Heidi, Ethan, front from left, Mackenna, Maia and Cecily from St Joseph’s Primary School, Korumburra, cheered each other on at the interschool swimming carnival on Friday.

Top swimmers: from left, Ebony (Inverloch Kongwak Primary School – 12/13 age champion), Audrey (St Laurence’s Primary School – U/10 age champion), Luke (Inverloch Kongwak Primary School – 12/13 age champion), Sage (Leongatha Primary School – high achiever), Nicolette (Leongatha Primary School – U/11 age champion), Jhett (Leongatha Primary School – U/10 age champion), Hugh (Leongatha Primary School, U/9 age champion) and Cooper (Korumburra Primary School – U/11 age Celebration: Leongatha Primary School was the overall winner of the champion) were congratulated for their efforts in the interschool swimming carnival. interschool swimming carnival on Friday.

Amazing achievement: Will and Phoebe accepted the Ian Brewster handicap shield on behalf of St Laurence’s Primary School at the interschool swimming carnival.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017 - PAGE 55

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Swimming win for Mary MacKillop MARY MacKillop Catholic Regional College won the interschool swimming carnival held at the Korumburra Outdoor Pool.

Facing off against Wonthaggi, Foster, Mirboo North, Korumburra and Leongatha secondary colleges, Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College also won the boys’ and girls’ aggregate championships.

Foster Secondary College claimed the shields for the boys’ handicap and grand handicap, while Mirboo North took out the girls’ handicap.

Medals were distributed to the overall age group championships, with an excellent cross section of schools to be represented at the next level.

Swim stars: from left, Grace Allen (Leongatha Secondary College), Sophie Chapman (Wonthaggi Secondary College) and Hayley Wight (Leongatha Secondary College) all participated in the U/16 girls’ relays at the interschool swimming carnival.

Handicap winners: from left, Siobhan Hall claimed the girls’ handicap shield on behalf of Mirboo North Secondary College, while Troy Van Dyke and Carmen Tracy accepted the boys’ handicap and grand handicap shields for Foster Secondary College.

Victory: Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College won the boys’ and girls’ aggregate shields, as well as the overall aggregate. The shields were accepted by Luke Malherbe and Claire Wylie.

Relay champs: from left, Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College’s Darci Holmes, Arlie Whiteside, Tahlia Jones and Amelia Downie teamed up for the U/15 girls’ freestyle relay and enjoyed a win at the interschool swimming carnival on Tuesday.

Champions: front from left, Nick McKenzie (Korumburra, U/17), Kelsey Del Pozzo (Mary MacKillop, U/14), Josh Wight (Leongatha, U/13), Lanni Bellingham (Leongatha, U/15), Jen Sokac (Wonthaggi, U/15), Luke Malherbe (Mary MacKillop, U/20s), back from left, Eric Zubic (Korumburra, U/16), Tyler Newton (Mary MacKillop, U/15), Lily Robinson (WontGo team: front from left, Harry Mahoney, Ethan Woodall, Beau Peters, back from left, haggi, U/16), Mason Vanderkolk (Wonthaggi, U/14), Sarah Krueger (Leongatha, U/17), and Melissa Blackshaw, Stephanie Parker, Eryn Elger, Jaimie Chila and Tajh Eden cheered for Kiera Brown (Leongatha, U/20) were the age group champions at the interschool swimming carnival on Tuesday. Absent: Freya Liepa (Foster, U/13).

Mirboo North Secondary College at the interschool swimming carnival.

Twilight series to come to a close IT would appear the Wednesday night road racing may be impacting upon attendance at the Friday night track racing. Unfortunately next week sees the end of the road twilight series and track racing is scheduled to also finish on Friday night.

However, the club has a come and try session arranged for Sunday afternoon, March 19 at the indoor velodrome at Darebin. All members are invited to attend and try out this fabulous track.

Friday night saw Austin Timmins make a welcome return to racing for 2017.

He has been out of action following the fracture of his road frame some six weeks past.

His times were down on his best and he was obviously in need of some time on the track.

In the one lap time trial he still posted the quick-

est time of 32.11 sec which was ahead of Oliver Mclean at 33.58 sec.

Mark Bensley clocked a new personal best at 35.95 sec which indicates his time at training sessions has helped.

In the B Grade group, Felicity Waddell rode a 39.45 sec whilst Caleb Murphy rode a 44.10 sec even with trouble with cleats on his shoes not suiting his pedals.

However, the past two Monday night sessions have been lost to wet weather.

Most riders have managed a weekend ride with some doing the Sunday morning race at Warragul as well as the Wednesday night race so their fitness is still intact.

The A Grade warm up scratch race saw a solid pace maintained as Oliver wanted to test Austin’s fitness and the tactic worked as the dash to the line saw Oliver prevail over Austin and Mark.

In the B Grade five lapper it was Felicity taking

the honours over Caleb.

The A Grade riders next raced a two lap sprint and Austin surprised the overs with a move around 500m out and the gap he opened up was sufficient to see him win from Oliver and Mark.

The B Grade sprint went to Felicity ahead of Caleb.

A short breather was allowed before the A Grade was sent out for a two lap handicap.

Mark Bensley(120m) made the most of his limit mark to lead all the way and win from Oliver (40) and Austin (Scr).

In the B Grade one lap race, Caleb Murphy (30) held on for a narrow win over Felicity (Scr).

Next Friday night will see riders have a short program followed by a barbecue get together.

Planning for the March 19 trip will need to be done to get riders and bikes to Darebin.

Race return: Austin Timmins flicks his right elbow for Oliver McLean to come through during the 10 lap scratch race on Friday night.

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Bowls pennant hits fever pitch

PENNANT bowls grand finals in both South Gippsland men’s and women’s competitions came to an exciting conclusion last Tuesday and Saturday.

In the women’s Division One pennant last Tuesday it was a win to the underdogs Leongatha, that broke a 35 year drought in this division to take home the flag from Inverloch; winning 16/70 to win by 12 shots to Inverloch 0/58.

The men’s Division One played at Korumburra’s top green was again a contest between Inverloch and Leongatha; with Leongatha hoping to claim both men’s and women’s titles in the same year.

It was not to be as the Inverloch Blue team had a resounding win 16/85 to defeat Leongatha 0/46.

Inverloch, as a neutral venue, hosted the Saturday pennant finals matches for Divisions Two, Three, Four and Five and 200 spectators lined the perimeters of both greens to support the eight teams competing for four flags in perfect bowling weather.

In Division Two it was Fish Creek prevailing by 30 shots over San Remo, Division Three saw Phillip Island win the flag by 28 shots over Foster, Division Four was a solid win by Korumburra by 27 shots over Wonthaggi and in the closest result of the finals San Remo took out Division Five by eight shots over Fish Creek.

In the ladies Division Two premier was Port Welshpool, Division Three was taken out by Mirboo North, Division Four winner was Inverloch.

Full reports and more photos on pages 46 and 47.

Top, Celebration: the Leongatha Division One team won the Tuesday pennant grand final after a 35 year drought. The team consisted of Joy Todd, Marj Pearson, Angela Hackett, Jenny Miller, Liz Beale, Gwen Williams, Trish McCormack, Sue Symmons, Glenda Trotman, Rosa James, team manager Jack Kuiper, Fay Turner, Leonie Hanks and Elaine White.

Right, Winners: Division One Saturday pennant winners were Inverloch, back from left Ron Burge, Andrew Rowe, Gavan Butler, Ross Gabb, Chas Buccilli, Gary Hardy, David Roberts and Frank Seaton and front from left, Glenn Scott, Mick Bowman, Mick Coram, Wayne Parks and Mike Yates.