The Great Southern Star - January 16, 2018 by The Great Southern Star

TUESDAY, JANUARY UARY UA RY 1 16, 6, 2 2018 0 8 - $1 01 $ $1.50 .50 .5 0 www.thestar.com.au

THE celebrations had hardly died down after Australia’s 4-0 cricket Ashes defeat of England when the Aussie cricket coach Darren Lehmann boarded a flight to Melbourne en route to Leongatha. He arrived in town the day after the Aussies wrapped up the series to catch up with his mate Stuart

Wigney. The pair, along with Jarryd Roughead, own McCartin’s Hotel. See story page 47.

Local vibe: members of Town and Koonwarra/ LRSL cricket clubs were invited down to McCartin’s Hotel last Tuesday (January 9) during a visit from Australian cricket coach Darren Lehmann. McCartin’s Hotel sponsors both clubs.

LEONGATHA CHEER

By Brad Lester and Helen Bowering

THE State Government is being urged to ensure Leongatha receives adequate funding for its future infrastructure requirements. The call comes in the wake of a prediction the

town’s population is expected to grow to 7476 people by 2031 – a massive rise of 30 per cent on

Government urged to meet town’s needs

the most recent population count in 2016. By 2031, Leongatha is expected to have 3343 homes, up from the 2560 homes that existed in 2016. The predicted population growth – in the 2016 Census - will drive demand for improved infrastructure and facilities in the town, and broader community. Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien called on the State Government to give Leongatha the attention it deserves. “There are plenty of local projects the Labor Government could get on with to help stimulate

the local economy including Leongatha’s Bair Street upgrade,” he said. “There is frustration in South Gippsland at the millions being spent in the Latrobe Valley while the rest of Gippsland gets very little. “We appreciate that Latrobe Valley is going through a significant and protracted transition period, but the government needs to be aware there are other parts of Gippsland that are also doing it tough and ensure its attention is on places like South Gippsland as well. “From The Nationals perspective, we are finalising our policies for the 2018 election now

Wonthaggi Back to on show school PAGES 6 & 7

ALL CIIA EC PE S SP E RE U UR T T A A E E F F

PAGES 17-19

and will be putting forward a strong plan to revitalise our country towns and rural areas.” South Gippsland Shire Council’s planning manager Paul Stampton is not surprised by the predicted growth of Leongatha - the shire’s main commercial and residential centre. “Leongatha is a very attractive town and regional centre identified, with Korumburra, as the places where large population growth should occur, in the Gippsland Regional Growth Strategy adopted by the State Government,” he said. “It is usual, and sensible planning for population growth to be encouraged in larger centres with diverse infrastructure such as hospitals, ambulances, schools, roads and businesses.” Continued on page 5.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 3

Brown water flows from taps By Sarah Vella KORUMBURRA residents have turned on their taps only for brown water to flow, over summer.

South Gippsland Water has attributed the discoloured water to the presence of the naturally occurring mineral manganese. Over the past month, changes to pressure and flows within the Korumburra system have caused sediments to be stirred up and enter the flow to customer’s taps.

The manganese sediments tend to give the water a yellow through to brown or dirty appearance. South Gippsland Water is acting to remove the discoloured water. Manganese is not toxic when consumed at the concentrations typically present in tap water, however, South Gippsland Water advises people not to drink water that is badly coloured. South Gippsland Water managing director Philippe du Plessis said manganese was present in all systems. “However, normally manganese sediments settle

to the bottom of the pipe reticulation network where they don’t cause problems for customers,” he said. The best way to clear manganese from the system is to flush it out. South Gippsland Water began flushing last Wednesday to release the coloured water and sediments from the system. Customers can also assist by running the garden tap for 15 minutes if they experience manganese. The cost of doing so will be approximately 50 cents. “These summer conditions have presented a range of challenges for water treatment in Korum-

burra,” Mr du Plessis said. “Please be assured the water is safe to drink, and South Gippsland Water field officers are working hard to ensure maximum possible removal of manganese at the treatment plant and cleaning or flushing of the system around the township. “This naturally occurring mineral will continue to occur while the system is sourced from local catchment areas.” Customers who experience coloured tap can call South Gippsland Water on 1300 851 636 to report the issue.

Training turmoil By Brad Lester DAIRY training in South Gippsland may be provided by another TAFE college after the withdrawal of GOTAFE from Leongatha.

Federation Training is now considering filling the void in dairy training left in South Gippsland by GOTAFE’s decision. Federation Training managing director Jonathan Davis said preliminary discussions with stakeholders were underway. “We are planning to hold further meetings with GOTAFE and Dairy Australia in the coming weeks to discuss the situation regarding provision of agricultural and dairy training in this region,” he said. “We will be discussing what options are available for the agricultural students and we will be happy to provide further comments once those discussions have concluded.” GOTAFE’s decision to withdraw was prompted by Dairy Australia’s announcement that it would retire the National Centre for Dairy Education (NCDE) brand at the end of 2017. Since the establishment of the NCDE in 2005, GOTAFE has partnered with Dairy Australia and the dairy industry. Dairy Australia will move to a combined education and extension framework with Dairy Learn in 2018. GOTAFE reviewed its dairy training delivery in line with its focus on North East Victoria and will

Leongatha Chemist on Duty

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THIS SUNDAY 10am - 1pm

now focus its dairy training in that region. GOTAFE will cease operations at the organisation’s campuses in Leongatha, Warragul and Terang. A spokesperson for GOTAFE said this would allow local TAFEs and training providers in Gippsland and South West Victoria an opportunity to service the local dairy industries. The spokesperson said students affected by the changes would be supported through to the completion of their studies. Some students may be transitioned to other TAFEs or dairy training organisations. Consultation with affected stakeholders has started. “We are aiming to minimise the inconvenience to students and other stakeholders and where possible, affected staff will be considered for other existing vacancies or offered redundancy,” the spokesperson Clearing the system: Todd Lomax from South Gippsland Water flushes out pipes in Korumburra after many reports of brown water in residents’ homes. said. GOTAFE formed in 1996 with the amalgamation of the Goulburn Valley Institute of TAFE and the Wangaratta Institute of TAFE. The State Opposition call for the State Government to ensure students who are stranded can complete their qualifications. Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien said, “Our dairy sector provides vital job opportunities and boosts our local economy. “At a time of great uncertainty for our local dairy sector, the Andrews Labor Government’s silence speaks volumes about their level of care for our region.” GOTAFE operated from premises in Smith Street, Leongatha.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Great turn out to ’Burra swap meet A MASSIVE crowd turned out to the Korumburra swap meet on Sunday. After battling through the summer heat last year, swap meet goers were blessed with perfect conditions at the Korumburra Showgrounds. The gates opened at 6am. The event was organised by the South

Gippsland branch of the Gippsland Historical Automobile Club. Treasurer Ian Nicholas said there was a certain increase in numbers over last year. “It’s a great event for car enthusiasts all over Australia. Plenty of people travel here from interstate,” he said. “This started out as an automotive event, but as the event started to grow larger we have started to see more general stuff here. We don’t mind what people come here to sell,” he said. With more than 350 stallholders, there was something for everyone. Mr Nicholas said among the highlights was a fantastic stall featuring interesting old farm machinery and gates. The show cars on the oval were also a major drawcard. Food was supplied by the Korumburra Lions and Rotary clubs, and the Leongatha Lions Club, with profits going back into the community. The Korumburra Scouts also provided a barbecue for stallholders the night before the big day. “We fully support our local service clubs,” Mr Nicholas said.

Bits and pieces: there were plenty of items to check out at the Korumburra swap meet on Sunday. Pictured is Outtrim’s Thelma Arnup (far left), Leongatha’s Gil Trease (second left) and Narre Warren’s Sam Capes (far right) looking at a stall belonging to Hazel and Max Wise.

Quality items: Korumburra’s Teah and Daryl Damon had plenty to offer at the Korumburra swap meet on Sunday.

On show: South Gippsland Historical Automobile Club member Mark Menheere from Port Franklin showcased his ’78 ZH Fairlane Marquis at the Korumburra swap meet on Big crowd: with perfect conditions and plenty to see, there was an excellent turn out to the Sunday. Korumburra swap meet on Sunday.

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

36 McCartin Street, Leongatha 3953 : PO Box 84 LEONGATHA 3953 Postal Telephone : 5662 2294 : 5662 4350 Fax 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. Registered business. ACN 006507580 | ABN 61 318 952 541 Print Post 336735 10006 HOUSE1627

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 5

Rail trail ready to roll THE members of the new Great Southern Rail Trail Committee of Management met last week to discuss their plans for the region’s iconic tourism attraction.

New chairman Ken Myors of Korumburra said the committee would continue to ensure the trail meets the region’s recreation and economic needs. “The amount of people who go in and out of these towns would not be there if it was not for the rail trail,” he said. Little maintenance has been undertake on the trail over the past eight months following the retirement of the previous committee, largely due to age. Now the new committee is preparing to prune

trees and undertake other tasks. Mr Myors said the committee aims to re-engage the expertise of the volunteers of the Friends of the Great Southern Rail Trail. Other new committee members are secretary Jack Pearce of Fish Creek, treasurer Laurie Martin of Leongatha, Stephen Sully of Leongatha, Greg Goss of Leongatha, Danny Drummond of Leongatha South and Kee Chiam of Leongatha. The committee meets in Meeting Room Two, Leongatha Memorial Hall Complex, Michael Place, Leongatha, on the first Monday of the month at 6pm. More members are welcome. To find out more, phone Mr Myors on 0419 388 860 or Mr Pearce on 0429 997 882, or see the website www.gsrt.com.au

Filthy act Charity poo poos dumping By Brad Lester FILTHY vandals are hurting a charity by routinely dumping dog and cat poo in a charity donation bin in Leongatha.

Clothes and rags containing poo have been dumped in the Lifeline donation in the IGA carpark. Lifeline provides a 24 hour a day, seven day a week telephone crisis support line to help people contemplating committing suicide and facing other desperate situations. The poo is unwittingly taken to Lifeline’s Morwell sorting centre where donated goods are sorted and distributed to Lifeline opportunity shops for sale to raise funds for the charity’s lifesaving work. But donations in the same bin with the poo, including clothing, are considered contaminated and have to be disposed of a tip, costing Lifeline tip fees and rendering the donations wasted.

The offenders have angered Lifeline Gippsland’s interim CEO Antoinette Mitchell. “We only get 12 per cent funding from the Federal Government to run our 24/7 service for people in crisis and we rely on donations,” she said. “Our volunteers feel angry about it. Dumping rubbish is against local laws so I’m guessing that dumping faeces falls within that category. “There are rubbish bins nearby so there is no excuse for putting dog faeces in the wrong bin. “It’s anti-social and it’s irresponsible. The fact that it’s routine seems like it’s deliberate.” The fresh poo has been dumped in Lifeline’s Leongatha bins for several months, and is usually wrapped in clothes and rags. Lifeline advises anyone wishing to make donations can leave items in donation bins or call Lifeline on 5136 3500 to arrange a truck to collect larger goods. Anyone needing assistance can phone Lifeline’s crisis support telephone service 24 hours a day, seven days per week, on 13 11 14.

Ready to serve: from left, the members of the new Great Southern Rail Trail Committee of Management are: Greg Goss, secretary Jack Pearce, chairman Ken Myors, Laurie Martin, Danny Drummond, Stephen Sully and Kee Chiam.

Leongatha cheer Continued from page 1. Mr Stampton said council is preparing for the growth by identifying growth areas and land for development, with well over 100ha of prospective land earmarked for housing. “Of course it is up to landowners and developers to actively pursue the development of their own land,” he said. “Council has identified large areas to the west and south for the next stages of town development that are currently in a number of different ownerships.” Mr Stampton said council plans covering community infrastructure plan for the town’s future. Mayor Cr Lorraine Brunt said council was helping to drive the town into the future through its Leongatha Revitalisation Project. This encompasses the improvement of the An-

derson Street entrance to town, and the current projects of the redevelopment of the railway site and Bair Street. The railway site is the subject of ongoing consultation, and council is seeking government funding to overhaul the streetscape of Bair Street to improve parking and the overall shopping experience. Of the railway site, Cr Brunt said, “It is a great opportunity to create a place of attraction with open space park land and artwork, and join it with Bair Street and the Great Southern Rail Trail. Let’s get the arts community involved to make suggestions in the next round of consultation. “The question is what will make travellers, visitors and locals stop to enjoy and shop in Leongatha?” Labor’s Eastern Victoria Region MLC Harriet Shing was contacted for comment.

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PAGE 6 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Show delights in Wonthaggi Pavilion results: THE bad weather mostly stayed away to P1 Garden and Farm Produce: Best exhibit: make for an enjoyable Bass Coast SumAngus Hales, Equal aggregate: Rhonda Street and mer Agricultural Show on Saturday. Angus Hales.

A large crowd gathered at the Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve to enjoy the competitions, displays, activities, and of course, sideshow alley. Among the highlights this year was the dog scramble – which was back after four years – the ute showcase, the Motocross stunt performers, the Harry Ferguson Tractor Club Display, and the local South Gippsland and Bass Coast Providores. Organiser Rosemary Loughnan said the show was dependent on the weather, and this year’s conditions had brought out more people than last. “We had very good weather. A light shower came through at about 4.30pm but it was pretty well all done by then and it didn’t affect us too much; it was much nicer than last year. We had no major incidents or accidents, and we were very happy with the outcome. I’d say it was a very successful show, and we look forward to 2019,” she said. The equestrian events on Sunday were also a success. The show committee was pleased with the number of entries, and said the pony ring was a highlight as it gave children the opportunity to have a go.

P2 Cut Flowers: Best exhibit: Marie Jones, Best dahlia: Marie Jones, Aggregate: Joan Hales. P3 Bowls Arrangements and Pot Plants: Best exhibit floral: Rhonda Street, Aggregate floral: Rhonda Street, Best exhibit pot plants: Marg McCulley, Aggregate: Carol Summerfield. P4 Cookery: Best exhibit: Rhonda Street, Aggregate: Cathey Visscher, Best decorated cake: Rhonda Street. P5 Jams and Preserves:, Best exhibit: Cathey Visscher, Aggregate: Cathey Visscher. P6 Knitting and Crochet: Best exhibit: Jen- Well behaved: from left, members of the Wonthaggi Dog Obedience Group John Henry, nifer Dodds, Toys and Dolls best exhibit: Patricia Judy Van Berlo, Helen O’Brien, Jeanette Sleebs and Lorraine Heyward had their dogs comGriggs, Needlework best exhibit: Janice Coldebelpeting at the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show on Saturday. la, Needlework aggregate: Patricia Griggs. P7 Craft: Best exhibit: Terry Donnelly, Aggregate: Brenda Asquith, Art best exhibit: Judith Soerink, Aggregate: Faye Seaton. P8 Photography: Best exhibit: Joan Hales, Aggregate: Jennifer Conn. P9 Pre and Primary School Age Craft: Best exhibit: Natasha Allen, Aggregate: Natasha Allen. P10 Secondary School Age Craft: Best exhibit: Sarah Prendergast, Aggregate: Sarah Prendergast. Best exhibits: Best exhibit in pavilion open: Terry Donnelly (Wonthaggi). Grand aggregate in pavilion: Patricia Griggs (Inverloch).

On show: Wonthaggi’s Christie O’Connell entered her horse Osory Bling in the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show on Saturday.

Competitor: Pearcedale’s Bella Farmer and her horse Cresswood Royal Ambition were all set to take part in the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show on Saturday. Bella is soon Tractors delight: Mason, Eliza, Phebe and Charlotte Boucher from Wonthaggi checked out some of the tractors on display at Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show on Saturday. to be a Leongatha local.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 7

Having a ball: Meeniyan’s Sullivan Harris had a great day on his grandfather John Harris’ tractor at the Bass Coast Summer AgriPoultry competition: Bega’s Garry Back- cultural Show on Saturday. Thrillseekers: from left, Dalyston’s Lexi Gannon and Chloe Cook loved the Tornado ride at house was the judge of the competition at Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show on the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show on Saturday. Saturday.

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PAGE 8 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;? Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Midweek market a must see THE twilight Inverloch Community Farmers Market was held at the Glade last Wednesday, with plenty of people taking the opportunity to get their hands on some fresh, local produce. The market, which is operated by the Inverloch Lions Club, featured 43 stallholders with everything from coffee, cakes, olive oil, fresh baked bread, fruit and vegetables to a great variety of ready to eat snacks. The evening also featured music by the Invy Kats. The market is also held on the last Sunday of the month in the same location.

Treacherous conditions TWO men were caught in a rip and dragged out into the ocean at Kilcunda surf beach last Thursday. The men in their 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s were swimming at the beach when they were pulled 100 metres away from shore at around 3pm. An off duty Inverloch police officer happened to be surfing at the time and rescued the two Carlton men. No medical attention was required.

Row boat stolen A WALKER Bay plastic row boat was stolen from the Yanakie beach off Shellcot Road. The boat was taken sometime between Christmas day and Monday, January 15 by unknown person/s. The boat was upside down and tied down and had been there for many years. Anyone with information is urged to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or the Foster Police Station on 5682 2485.

Bike thief

Tasty titbit: Alison Dixon from Grahamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Homemade Gourmet Pesto from Wonthaggi gave visitors from Yarraville, Eliza and Marion Lavery, a taste at last Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s twilight Inverloch Community Farmers Market, held in the Glade.

Good times: Emily, Julianne and Willow Bakogiannis from Jumbunna were at the twilight Inverloch Community Farmers Market last Wednesday, with their home grown olive oil and handmade stress balls.

A BICYCLE was stolen from the Inverloch jetty on Tuesday, January 9 at around 4.20pm. The owner rode the bike to the Inverloch jetty and left it at the car park entrance to walk around. On return the owner found the bike was gone. The bike is a distinctive bright fluoro yellow Fluid brand mountain bike. Anyone with information is urged to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or the Foster Police Station on 5682 2485.

Fire without permit

TOORA police and CFA attended a call to a fire at an address in Turners Road, Toora North where they found a rubbish burn off on Sunday at 11.20am. The fire had been left unattended. exploration for conventional gas while maintainA 47 year old Toora North man was assisting ing the current ban on fracking. The policy will police with the investigation. also provide for royalties to be paid to property Police and CFA want to reiterate that all fires owners when gas is extracted on their property. within the fire restriction period must have a perThe State Opposition said Victoria should not mit. be banned from accessing its large gas resources There have been several fires attended to by because of Premier Daniel Andrewsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;inability to CFA and police this fire restriction period already. There are offences for lighting fires without distinguish fracking from conventional gasâ&#x20AC;?. David Southwick, Shadow Minister for Ener- permits within fire restriction periods and on total gy and Resources, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Daniel Andrews wants fire ban days. There are also offences for leaving a fire unatto continue his do nothing approach to gas and just hope for the best. We already know weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re tended.

Gas reserves â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;smallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, says minister THE prospect of coal seam gas mining in South Gippsland continues to dwindle. The Victorian Minister for Resources Tim Pallas last Friday launched the first Victorian Gas Program Progress Report, with initial analysis showing Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s onshore conventional gas resources are much smaller than its vast offshore resources. The State Government has committed $42.5 million to fund a comprehensive program of geoscience and environmental research. This will produce a more rigorous and auditable assessment of Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s onshore conventional gas resources, using existing core samples, 3D modelling and further drilling. It will also further assess possible environmental hazards associated with gas extraction along with potential controls. The State Oppositionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy will allow the

facing shortfalls this winter; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just another failure to add to the list. Slippery road crash â&#x20AC;&#x153;Industry is ready to go on conventional gas. A RICHMOND man driving along Korumburra Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time Daniel Andrews got out of their way, South Road, Korumburra lost control of his vehicle stopped conflating conventional gas with frack- in the wet weather at 8.30pm on Saturday. ing, and got on board with the Liberal Nationals The 30 year old driver lost control when negotipolicy to kick-start conventional gas.â&#x20AC;? ating a sharp left hand bend resulting in his vehicle sliding down an embankment and into a tree.

Noticeboard PUBLIC NOTICE Proposed Road Opening â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Part Fish Creek Quarry Road Fish Creek Council at its ordinary meeting held 20 December 2017 pursuant to sections 204 (2), 207A and 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 proposes to declare that section of Fish Creek Quarry Road, Fish Creek from Fish Creek-Foster Road, Fish Creek to Beards Road, Fish Creek and being the 8499 Folio 930, Volume 10158 Folio 880 and Volume 5055 Folio 898 (shown bold on the plan reasonably required for public use.

PUBLIC NOTICE cont. Any person making a submission is entitled to be heard in support of the submission. If a person or a representative wishes to be heard in support of the submission they must state this in their submission. Copies of submissions (including submittersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; personal information such as their name and address) will be published and made available at the Council or special committee meeting at which the proposal will be considered. SOUTH GIPPSLAND AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS CEREMONY Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re invited to join us in honouring the people and events that help make our community great! On Wednesday 17 January, nominees will be be announced. Details on each of the nominees can be viewed at www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/australiaday Date: Wednesday 17 January, 2018 Location Memorial Hall, Leongatha Start time: 7.00pm End time: 10.00pm Description: Live entertainment and presentation of Contact: 5662 9200

A person may make a submission to this proposal. Submissions are to be received no later than 5pm Tuesday 13 February 2018 and addressed to the CEO, South Gippsland Shire Council, 9 Smith Street, Leongatha Vic 3953 or Private Bag 4, Leongatha Vic 3953.

EMPLOYMENT Council advertises all employment opportunities on its website. For details please visit: www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/employment

WORKS THIS WEEK Sealed roads maintenance: Whole Shire Tree requests: Whole Shire Roadside slashing: Jeetho, Loch, Foster North School crossing construction: Foster Road, Fish Creek Road stabilising & reseal preparation: McGleads Road & Victory Avenue, Foster Unsealed road drainage: Bena, Loch, Meeniyan, Fish Creek Road reconstruction: Hudsons Road, Leongatha South Road rehabilitation: Main South Road, Ranceby Unsealed road grading: Korumburra, Strzelecki, Dumbalk, Turtons Creek Footpath renewal: Ogilvy Street, Leongatha Road construction: Korumburra Show Grounds Kerb replacement: Falls Road, Fish Creek Drainage upgrade: Coopers Road, Foster Reseal preparation: Milford Road, Dumbalk North

The Mitsubishi Lancer landed on its roof and the sole occupant climbed out of the back window and called emergency services. The man was taken to Warragul Hospital as a precautionary measure. The vehicle was written off and towed.

Motorcyclist crashes A MOTORCYCLIST lost control when rounding a sharp bend on Lang Lang-Poowong Road in Poowong on at 3.30pm on Sunday. The solo rider was travelling on his Harley Davidson at the back of a group of 10 other motorcyclists. The group was travelling north and the 58 year old man from Upwey failed to negotiate a sharp left hand bend at a low speed. The motorcycle hit grass on side of road, clipping the embankment causing him to fall off the motorcycle. The man was transported to Dandenong Hospital with suspected broken ribs.

Roadwork speedsters CONSTRUCTION work has commenced on widening the South Gippsland Highway between Foster and Toora. As a result of a complaint from workers at the site regarding cars not adhering to the road work speed limit of 40km/h, police attended last Thursday and issued eight infringement notices to speeding drivers. Local drivers featured quite heavily in the final count of offending motorists. Roadwork speed restrictions are there to protect the workers and need to be adhered to at all times by motorists.

Multiple offences A WOMAN was found to be driving an unregistered car without her probationary licence with her and without P plates last Thursday. The 24 year old Sale woman was intercepted for a routine check on the South Gippsland Highway in Toora by police. She was issued with three infringement notices for $159, $159 and $793.00.

Child on lap A DRIVER was charged for having a child sitting on the lap of the front seat passenger while driving along Ring Road at Tidal River on Friday. The driver was issued with an infringement notice for $357 and three demerits for allowing the child to occupy the same seat as the front seat passenger and the passenger was also issued an infringement notice of $317 for having two persons in the same seat.

Burglary at Toora A FOSTER woman and a Welshpool man were charged for burglary and theft after breaking into a rural garage. Between 11pm on Wednesday and 7.30am on Thursday the two offenders committed the crime at the garage located on the South Gippsland Highway in Toora. Investigations led Toora police to the 34 year old woman and a 32 year old man who were interviewed regarding the burglary. The man has also been remanded in police custody.

Attempted burglary UNKNOWN offenders attempted to enter a holiday house in Anderson Avenue at Sandy Point between Saturday, December 23 and Wednesday January 10. Any person with information is asked to contact police.

Lock your car POLICE would like to reiterate the message to always lock your vehicles and never leave valuable items in your car while you are away from it or overnight. There can be an increase in the thefts from motor cars this time of year within Bass Coast, in and around beach car parks so please lock your cars.

TENDER companies/applicants for the following: RFT/167 DESIGN, SUPPLY AND CONSTRUCTION OF LIGHTING POLES AND LIGHTING (INCLUDING COMMISSIONING) LEONGATHA SOCCER CLUB, MARY MACKILLOP CRC LEONGATHA Tenders close 2.00pm AEDST on Tuesday 6 Februrary 2018. Documentation is available from Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s e-Tendering Portal: www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/tenders

9 Smith Street, Leongatha 3953 | Private Bag 4, Leongatha 3953 | 5662 9200 | council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au | www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

Slippery Black Spur bends A VEHICLE travelling towards Leongatha on the South Gippsland Highway between Meeniyan and Koonwarra during wet conditions collided with an oncoming vehicle. The Meeniyan woman was travelling along the Black Spur bends on her way to work last Friday morning around 9.30am. A section of the highway was closed for a period of time and the woman suffered minor injuries. The occupant/s of the other vehicle escaped unharmed. Police are investigating the cause.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 9

Retailers relish holiday rush By Tayla Kershaw SOUTH Gippsland shoppers backed local businesses over Christmas after being lured to the region’s towns by new initiatives from business and tourism associations.

From traditional promotional posters to modern social media, commercial associations worked hard to entice festive shoppers. Korumburra Business Association president Noelene Cosson said businesses encouraged people to spend locally by putting up posters in shop windows, which resulted in a great start to the holiday season. “Overall, there was a positive feel throughout Korumburra. It was great to see so many people in the street,” she said. Association secretary Shirley Arestia said although there may not have been any increase in trade, the Korumburra Christmas party laid down the foundation for trade to improve in the coming years. “People came out for the activities and music, and some stopped for a coffee or to do a bit of their Christmas shopping,” she said. “There were a lot of numbers and the town was busy in the lead up to Christmas. However, the feedback has been that it didn’t pick up over the New Year period. “We have a lot of new people coming into the town who haven’t yet discovered what we have to offer. They are still in the habit of ordering online or travelling to bigger department stores. “It’s just a matter of building up our encouragement for local support and helping everyone get a feel for what’s here to adjust the ways people do their Christmas shopping.” Ms Arestia said there was a lot of positive feedback about the festive vibe in Korumburra, with residents and visitors enjoying the town’s Christmas decorations. The Inverloch Tourism Association turned to social media to help promote local businesses over the holiday period. Association president Dom Brusamarello

said members had been encouraged to post promotions through social networking sites, and they had received positive comments and results. “We are grateful to the community for supporting our traders and the shop local movement,” he said. As for the summer trade, Mr Brusamarello said it seemed similar to previous years, but it was too soon to tell. “If the weather in the next couple of weeks is conducive for the beach, we will see an increase in trade. If it rains, people are more likely to travel,” he said. “What we are seeing this year is more people using their holiday homes. The community had noticed a rise in local tourists.” Wonthaggi Business and Tourism Association president Dee Connell said there had been a definite increase in Christmas and New Year trade. “More people are passing through the town and there’s a lot more traffic. We’ve all seen more people stopping and showing interest in our local businesses,” she said. The association has not run any new initiatives, allowing members to focus on their business during the busy period. Wonthaggi’s big event for promoting local trade will be the Laneways Festival on April 7. Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry vice president Anthony Walls said from his point of view, Christmas trade in the town was better than in the previous year. He said some of Leongatha’s new retailers, including Rod Bendings World, and String and Salt, reported good holiday sales. “I think it was a positive time and generally, it seemed like Christmas trade was better than the previous year,” he said. “More and more people want to spend locally. Leongatha doesn’t have a huge shopping precinct, but a lot of people are trying to spend local before they go elsewhere.” Mr Walls said he had only heard positive feedback from traders and that there was a continuing “good, positive vibe” around the town.

Happy with it: Josie Vitetta from Nicks Clothing in Leongatha said this year’s Christmas trade was steady and an improvement on the year before. She said it was great to see locals and visitors shopping in the store.

Emergency rush PARAMEDICS were busy across South Gippsland last week, with the Air Ambulance called to numerous incidents.

A man was flown by air ambulance to The Alfred Hospital from Mirboo North in a serious condition with a leg injury, on Thursday. A young woman was taken by Air Ambulance to The Alfred Hospital in a serious condition after collapsing at a home in Cape Paterson, on Thurs-

day. The same day, a man in his seventies was taken by Air Ambulance to The Alfred Hospital after suffering serious arm and leg injuries after a quad bike rollover in Ryanston, north of Wonthaggi. Last Thursday at Venus Bay’s beach five, a man managed to make his way to sand bar and did not receive emergency care. Paramedics were called to the beach after receiving reports of a man being swept out to sea.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

COLUMN 7

col7@thestar.com.au

Swap meet interest: Xavier and Evan Bruning enjoyed looking at the car someone has created out of scrap pieces. Full coverage of the swap meet at Korumburra on page 4. Photo courtesy Gerard Bruning-@fourcornersframing.biz

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KORUMBURRA’S Australia Day celebrations “We Still Call Australia Home” will include a small celebration in Coleman Park commencing at 5pm.It will include one hour of free face painting for children, music and singing and the Flag Ceremony with announcements of Youth Achievers for Korumburra.

Coal Creek helps a girl in need THE community is invited to attend a fundraiser at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum in Korumburra on Saturday, January 27 to support the family of eight year old Emily Rainbow.

Sarah Vella

Tayla T Tayl a Kershaw aw

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DONATIONS are sought for a fundraising event for Vision Australia. Vision Australia Warragul is hosting a Dinner in the Dark on July 7 and is seeking donations for a silent auction. Guests will have their dinner in the dark by being blindfolded to mimic what completing everyday tasks, such as eating a meal, may be like for those living with low vision or blindness. To donate, email Chelsea McKane at chelsea. mckane@visionaustralia.org or ring Vision Australia Warragul on 5623 0100. SOUTH Gippslanders can clean up the region by signing up for 2018 Clean Up Australia Day. The national event on Sunday, March 4 will entail cleaning up the environment before rubbish damages parks, bushland, waterways and oceans. Online registrations are now open at www. cleanupaustraliaday.org.au

WHEN the heavens opened and lightning and thunder struck Leongatha on Friday afternoon it was very upsetting to see a poor little Kelpie puppy tied up in the back of an open tray utility in McCartin Street The Gippslander requires urgent surgery to shivering and whining as the rain drenched the town remove a tumour from her face and is likely to and the helpless pup. The owner eventually came back have the procedure at St Vincent Private Hospital to the utility not bothering at all about the drenched in Sydney, New South Wales. pup and drove off with the rain still bucketing down. The tumour is spreading throughout Emily’s Honestly it does break your heart when you see animain facial nerve system and requires the skilled mals treated so poorly. At least the owner could have hands of qualified surgeons to remove to avoid dried off the dog and made sure it wasn’t scared.

THE Meeniyan Healing Rooms are available to visit as from today, Tuesday, January 23. They are open every Tuesday at the Meeniyan Christian Fellowship rooms from 2.30pm4pm. For more information see the advertisement in the Public Notices in today’s Star.

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Coming together: from left, Shirley Reeves, Jill Widmer, Jackie Horobin and Nick Peck are the committee organising the 40th anniversary celebration of the South Gippsland Citizens Advice Bureau.

CAB turns 40

permanent damage. Emily has named her tumour Bob and the event, BOB in the Burra (BOB stands for Bugger Off Bob) will include a scavenger hunt, children’s games and activities, music, food vans and more, from 10am to 4pm. The surgery will cost $15,000. A previous surgery was unable to remove the tumour due to it growing into her facial nerves. The tumour has now encased her lymph node. To donate, go online to: www.gofundme.com/ emilys-tumour-removal or search B.O.B in the Burra on Facebook.

SOMETHING exciting is going to happen in Leongatha in May, 2018.

The South Gippsland Citizens Advice Bureau is celebrating its 40th anniversary of operation in Leongatha. Over the years the CAB, located in the Memorial Hall Complex, Leongatha, has assisted many thousands of clients by offering a free and confidential information and referral service. The CAB is trying to locate volunteers who have participated in the work of the CAB over the past 40 years. This celebration is to take the form of a special luncheon at the Dakers Centre, Leongatha, and names and addresses are required to post invitations to anyone who has participated in this great community organisation. Many names and addresses have been lost. If you are, or you know anyone who has been involved with the CAB, please contact the CAB on 5662 2111 or ring Jill Widmer 5674 3910 and an invitation will be posted to you.

Fabulous cause: the community is invited to attend a fundraiser for Emily Rainbow at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum in Korumburra on Saturday, January 27. The eight year old has a tumour that is spreading throughout her face.

Who needs a dog: Brody Weymouth from Koonwarra was on Bair Street in Leongatha last Tuesday, January 9 with his faithful friend Shank the little lamb. Brody said he needed a coffee, and Shank follows him so closely, he thought it would be a nice outing for the small sheep. Currently babysitting the lamb, Brody said he was considering adopting Shank, who is being hand raised.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 11

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OPINIONS

Top citizen says thanks

AT this time last year, I was overwhelmed about being chosen as the South Gippsland Shire Citizen of the Year for 2017. It was an overwhelming experience and one I will not forget. A big thankyou must be given to the South Gippsland Shire for organising the Australia Day Awards and the people who nominated the candidates to participate in the South Gippsland Shire Awards for 2017. All candidates would agree it

was a humbling experience to see their names up in print. We all do volunteer work and may meet certain challenges, but we obtain a great deal of pleasure helping people and our community. I was overwhelmed about being chosen as the South Gippsland Shire Citizen of the Year 2017. Thank you one and all for your kind words and acknowledgements shown in many ways on this great honour in 2017. Last but not least, good luck to everyone and also the events nominated for the South Gippsland Shire Awards for 2018. Thank you one and all. Bev Hanley, Dumbalk.

E D I T O R I A L Don’t forget Leongatha LEONGATHA residents know their town is a great place to live and it’s little wonder more people are choosing to call the town home. With the town’s population set to increase by 30 per cent by 2031, Leongatha will need more infrastructure to ensure it can retain its liveability. South Gippsland Shire Council is planning ahead for the town’s growth, having formulated strategies to plan for future residential expansion and social infrastructure. The trick is to ensure those projects receive the state and federal funding needed to ensure they get off the ground. With the entrance to Anderson Street now improved – and doesn’t it look fantastic – governments are urged to fund the redevelopment of Bair Street to include more parking and a beautified streetscape that will hopefully make this side of the central business district a more attractive place for shoppers to visit. That will in turn hopefully encourage business people to establish their premises in the vacant shops there, with Bair Street long held back by the difficulty people have in parking in parallel parking spaces, given they have to negotiate oncoming traffic while doing so. Beyond these projects, the town may well still have 10 years to go before reaching 2031, and will no doubt require additional recreational works and possibly new educational facilities to keep up with demand. Regional centres like Ballarat, Bendigo and Geelong have long attracted government funding, and deservedly so given their immense populations, but governments cannot go past rising smaller regional communities such as Leongatha, especially when they face population pressures from Melbourne’s urban sprawl.

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.

Letters to the Editor

Trail input urged

SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has called for written submissions from the community regarding its intention to retain for public use the section of the Fish Creek Quarry Road, from Fish Creek-Foster Road to Beards Road, and to formally incorporate the road section into the Hoddle Mountain Trail. At its final 2017 meeting, Council voted unanimously to retain the road section for public use rather than selling it to an adjacent landowner wanting to buy it from Council and incorporate it into an existing holding. While Council’s vote on the matter does not represent a final decision, it seems likely that unless there is overwhelming community opposition, the section of road will remain open to public traffic accessing the Hoddle Mountain Trail from Fish Creek. The full trail links the Great Southern Rail Trail with the Hoddle Ranges Walking Trail, creating a 17-kilometre return journey from Fish Creek out through spectacular scenery overlooking Wilson’s Promontory and Corner Inlet. The local community and visitors have used the trail for many years, and members of our group and the Fish Creek community applaud Council for voting for an outcome that supports the clear public interest and preference regarding the trail. Our group fully supports Coun-

cil’s strategy to develop recreational paths and trails radiating out from the “spine” of the Great Southern Rail Trail, providing “viable, safe, interesting connections and networks between towns, points of interest and other destinations,” and believes that the Hoddle Mountain Trail exactly fits this vision. Council will make its final decision on the road’s future at the April ordinary Council meeting, after considering all submissions. We urge you to visit Council’s website where you can see details of Council’s decision. Submissions will be critical to Council’s decision making. We hope you will support Council’s intention to retain the road section for public use as part of the Hoddle Mountain Trail, ensuring its continuity as a community asset, providing enjoyment for locals and visitors, and bringing clear benefits to individuals and the community. Submissions must be in writing and received by Council no later than 5pm Tuesday, February 13. Richard Dargaville, President, Hoddle Mountain Trail Management Group.

Road seal thanks WELL done to the Shire workers who were able to seal the road through the Korumburra Recreation Reserve last Tuesday and Wednesday. It was the only way the swap meet would have gone ahead, which was huge on Sunday.

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

But looking at the mixture of hot mix and how thin it is in places, let’s hope it lasts. Now the entry needs doing off the highway and the inside road up past the footy ground. David Amor, Korumburra.

Amor rebuffed SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council would like to respond to the letter from Korumburra resident David Amor published in the Star (3/1/18) in relation to his comments on Council works at both the Leongatha Recreation Reserve and the Korumburra Showgrounds. Mr Amor has referred to delays and mistakes with these works. In response to these assertions, Council can categorically state that no mistakes have been made. There have been some minor alterations to the designs as occurs in all civil engineering projects largely due to discovery of unknown services and poor ground conditions as well as occasional requests by the committees. With respect to completion dates, these have been governed to some extent by the needs of the committees. In particular this has been the case at Korumburra where works have ceased for short periods of time for various events. Both committees have expressed their gratitude for these projects. The Leongatha Recreation Reserve Committee of Management stated “We are delighted

with the works undertaken by Council to upgrade the infrastructure within the reserve. Council staff were attentive to our needs right through the project and the finished product has enhanced the usability of the reserve for all users now and into the future.” Korumburra Showgrounds Committee said “The members of the Korumburra A&P Society were dismayed by the comments in the local papers and on Facebook regarding the works done on the Korumburra Showgrounds. The Committee members were full of praise for the communication, assistance, support of the South Gippsland Shire employees and supervisors during a time when adverse weather conditions hampered the works progress. The members were well aware of the disruptions the works would cause to all events staged (i.e. football games, sheep dog trials, show horse jumping, Dairy Expo, Swap Meet, Annual Show etc.) but the Shire at all times were available to liaise with Showground users. The members agreed the disruptions would cause access issues during the course of the works but, ‘short term pain, for long term gain’. The improvements to the Korumburra Showgrounds are a credit to South Gippsland Shire and the Korumburra A&P Society thank all involved in this project.” Cr Lorraine Brunt,Mayor South Gippsland Shire Council

VOXPOP! VOX

Are you able to spot a rip at the beach?

“Yes. You have to relax if you get caught in a rip.” Cleo Kenny, Dalyston.

“You can tell if there is a rip by the way the water is moving.” Ivy Archibald, Inverloch.

“There’s a rip when the water is moving sideways. You just need to relax and go with the rip.” Lulu Kenny, Dalyston.

“A rip can be big waves or a smooth spot in the water. If you get pulled by a rip, you need to lie down and be calm. It will take you somewhere but not very far.” Alice Seddon, Belgrave.

Party time at Korumburra pool ALTHOUGH the weather summer. The next big event if was dark and gloomy, the Friday Night Dippers on Januvibe was colourful and ary 19. bright at the Korumburra Outdoor Swimming Pool on Saturday.

Running from 5pm until 8pm, the big inflatable will be set up in the pool and a barbecue.

The pool hosted a Hawaiian Luau as part of its holiday program. Although it might have been too cold to hop in the pool, there was still plenty to do, including games like jumbo connect four, jenga, and noughts and crosses. Party goers were encouraged to deck themselves out in colour for the luau, and there were lollies and prizes to be won. Fun theme: Korumburra’s Piper Harding-Matuk and Bena’s The Korumburra pool crew Decked out: from left, lifeguards Harry McLean, Carie Harding and Kylie Lovell were all loves to put on a party during Lily Lovell were in party mode at the Hawaiian Luau on

set for the Hawaiian Luau at the Korumburra Outdoor Swimming Pool on Saturday.

Saturday.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 13

Music fans unified at Tarwin Lower MORE than 7500 heavy music lovers gathered in Tarwin Lower over the weekend for the fourth sold out Unify gathering festival which was once again a huge success.

Those lucky enough to attend were treated to two nights and three days of some of the best heavy bands in the world, including sets from Architects and Australia’s own Parkway Drive and the Amity Affliction. Local band Mirrors opened the festival on the Friday afternoon and also received a great response. Organisers said they were very pleased with the event overall and praised the behaviour and attitude of the audience who attended, many who had travelled from interstate and overseas to be there. As in previous years, Unify gathering was held across the Tarwin Lower Recreation Reserve and pony club and involved a number of local community groups including the Tarwin Lower Football and

Netball Club, Venus Bay and Tarwin Lower Men’s Shed, the Tarwin Lower Community Health Centre and the Tarwin Lower and District Bowls Club. Many local businesses, contractors and volunteers were also engaged to help make the event possible. “We’d really love to thank all the local community groups and volunteers for their amazing work and for helping make Unify such a special and unique event,” co-director Rhett McLaren said. “It’s the only event of its kind in the southern hemisphere and to be able to host it in the area we grew up in is a real honour.” In addition to the funds raised throughout the event, according to event survey data it is estimated that those in attendance spend $75 per person on average in the local area generating more than half a million dollars for the local economy. Unify is committed to staying in South Gippsland and the organisers are excited to start planning for the 2019 event.

Boaters fined during safety blitz FISHERIES and police officers issued five infringement notices to boaters during an operation at Welshpool recently.

The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) conducted an operation targeting those fishing recreationally in South Gippsland. The joint operation with Victoria Police ran over two days and temporary road blocks were put in place at Welshpool on January 10 and December 15, 2017. Recreational fishers who had been fishing around Port Welshpool were checked to ensure they held recreational fishing licenses, were using the correct equipment and following the legal fishing limits. As part of the VFA’s role in promoting responsible fishing, fisheries officers in Victoria are also appointed as transport safety officers and may inspect vessels and operators to ensure they are complying with marine safety regulations to ensure fishing is

Sold out crowd: 7500 fans of heavy music came together over the weekend at Unify in Tarwin Lower to enjoy punk, hardcore, and metal bands from all over the world.

carried out safely. Overall, fisheries compliance was good, with five infringements issued for marine safety noncompliance relating to personal flotation devices and flares. Senior fisheries officer Joel Sedgwick said the aim of the operation was to make contact with as many fishers as possible and promote public awareness of fisheries regulations. “It was great to see that the vast majority of fishers were doing the right thing and that no fisheries offences were detected,” he said. “Fisheries officers will be out and about all summer at various times of the day and night, in uniform and plain clothes to ensure fishing is carried out in accordance with the rules.” Anyone who sees or suspects illegal fishing is urged to call the 24-hour reporting line 13FISH (133474), anytime. Big hit: headliner of Unify festival’s line-up Amity Affliction played to a sold out crowd on

Sunday at Tarwin Lower Recreation Reserve.

On patrol: fisheries and police officers inspected boaters during a two day operation at Welshpool recently.

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PAGE 14 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Nerrena Hall is calling MORE people are discovering the beauty of Nerrena.

It’s tranquil countryside, pleasant community and proximity to the services, schools and jobs in Leongatha enticing local town dwellers seeking a rural life, as well as newcomers to South Gippsland. At the centre of this charming rural district on the way to Dumbalk is the Nerrena Hall, the hub of the community that is waiting to be discovered by people from beyond the district. Shaded by oak trees and offering views across the lush countryside, the hall is perhaps a little known gem of the region. The dedicated members of the hall committee have recently overseen the $16,000 renovation of the entryway and bathrooms, paid for by committee funds of $8000 and a community grant of

$8000 from South Gippsland Shire Council. The works complement other projects undertaken in recent years, including resurfacing of the timber floor, and the installation of air conditioners, blinds and a new kitchen. “The hall is pretty special. It’s a great venue, it’s quiet and close to Leongatha, and can hold around 100 people,” hall secretary Tina Allen said. The hall committee is inviting the community to consider hiring the hall for functions such as weddings and other social gatherings, and note the hall comes complete with a stage and piano. “We’ve had weddings here and people like it because there is a lot of room to park and there’s a playground for the kids. It’s good for wedding photos because it’s a pretty spot,” Ms Allen said. The Nerrena community gathers at the hall every Christmas for a festive celebration and for casserole nights during the cool winter evenings. While the hall committee looks after the hall’s affairs, the Nerrena Cricket Club cares for the adjoining oval and is based in the former Nerrena State School overlooking the quaint playing field in a setting reminiscent of rural England. “There are a lot of lifestyle properties around, and a lot of people are wanting to get out of Melbourne and it’s a bit quieter in Nerrena,” Ms Allen said. Hall bookings can be made with Paul and What a spot: from left, Nerrena Hall secretary Tina Allen and daughter Sophie Allen invite Kerryl Battersby on 5664 9357.

more people to inspect the hall with a view to staging events there.

Champion of the arts By Brad Lester “THE arts are a place for people to express themselves and connect with other people.”

That is the view of Mary Sullivan, the newly appointed arts development officer of South Gippsland Shire Council. “In rural communities, there is an enormous emphasis on sport and sport plays a role in bringing people together and feeling connected, but not everyone feels connected to sport, so it’s great to provide this avenue for people in the arts as an alternative space for them to connect with,” she said. “A creative community is a strong community, and there are great potential economic benefits to developing a strong arts culture in South Gippsland.” The Inverloch woman was appointed to implement council’s Arts, Culture and Creative Industry Strategy 2017-2021. “People are so excited to have an advocate for arts in the community,” she said, promising to work with communities to further enhance the region’s artistic activities. Ms Sullivan’s initial days have involved working with arts groups to determine what their ambitions are and to familiarize herself with what she has deemed as South Gippsland’s already “thriving arts community”. “It’s amazing how much is already going on,”

she said. Her early projects include expanding the arts activities at smaller community halls and attracting more music events to the shire. Having lived in Melbourne for more than 20 years, Ms Sullivan said she has an extensive network of artists and musicians to invite to exhibit and perform in South Gippsland. “I’m starting a conversation with Mirboo North Scout Group to run a public art event and we will be involved with Creative Gippsland,” she said. “There will also be an artist in residence program to get a town involved in hosting an artist from outside the area to work in the area for two weeks.” Ms Sullivan will begin the role fulltime after completing a project she was already involved with: The Edge of Us along the Waterline area from Corinella to Pioneer Bay. As co-creative director of that two year project of Regional Arts Victoria, she helped connect the towns of Pioneer Bay, Corinella, Coronet Bay, Tenby Point and Grantville through arts activities. This included the Luminous Streets event in April 2017, during which sculptures were installed around the towns. Ms Sullivan also oversaw the rejuvenation of Inverloch’s skate park, working with young people to transform the park into a colourful attraction within the heart of town.

With a masters degree in landscape architecture, she enjoys drawing and photography personally, and worked for 10 years as metal worker, including a three year stint with a sculptor in New York, USA.

Creative thinker: Mary Sullivan, South Gippsland Shire Council’s newly appointed arts development officer, among the sculpture created by Kardella potter Robert Barron outside council’s Leongatha office.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 15

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Major works continue at Newhaven College SCHOOL may be out for students and teachers, but at Newhaven College there has been a flurry of activity.

There is just over two weeks to go until the new school year starts, and a massive amount of road and landscaping work is to be completed. A large team of contractors has been working hard on major landscaping and the roads program that involves laying down lawns and tan bark, and creating gardens, an impressive new entrance to the school, new car parking areas and a bus loop. These works are all designed to make traffic flow easier and safer for the school community for the new 2018 year. For Dale Sartori, managing director of DAS Constructions, Wonthaggi it has been an extremely busy time at the college. No sooner did Mr Sartori’s company and many local contractors put the finishing touches to the new state of the art $10 million Senior School and science and arts learning centre at the end of school in December 2017, than it was straight into infrastructure works for the new $6.3 million new multi-purpose gymnasium. DAS Constructions will be building the new gymnasium. Talking to The Star at the college on Friday, Mr Sartori said he is excited to have built the new Senior School and learning centre, and is excited

to continue working with the college on the next stage of the master plan. “It is great to be part of the growth at Newhaven College and we are thrilled to continue our work with the school and infrastructure works are now in progress for the gym,” he said. Mr Sartori said the gym should be completed around October or November this year. “It is another big project and it is great we can employ local workers and contractors,” he said. Some $1,750,000 Federal Government funding for the new double-court gymnasium was announced last year by Flinders MP Greg Hunt. The funding, through the Capital Grants Program, will go towards the construction to encourage participation and further develop the next generation of Phillip Island athletes. In announcing the funding Mr Hunt said, “These funds will ensure students at Newhaven College have the infrastructure necessary to help them get the most out of their time at school.” Newhaven College principal Gea Lovell said the Federal Government funding had enabled the school to continue to implement its masterplan. “We are excited to see the construction of the multi-purpose indoor sports facility under way, which will allow students to participate in a range of sports in all conditions,” she said. Mrs Lovell said she has been flat out at the college making sure the major landscaping and roads project is complete by the start of the

Mayor’s message Cr Pamela Rothfield

IT is wonderful to see the extra excitement, colour and vibrancy of summer in our street and towns. However, summer is also a time of extreme heat, bushfire risk, and when water safety and the jobs of our surf life savers come into full swing. I would like to send my immense gratitude to all of the volunteers who are intensely active in both the CFA and Surf Lifesaving clubs at this time.

The recent tragedies in the front beaches of Port Phillip Bay, and on our beach at Cape Woolamai, serve as a sombre reminder of the importance of water safety. My heart goes out to the families involved with these tragedies. These events have evoked much compassion from the community, and also a call to action to improve signage. While I wholeheartedly agree that we need to do all in our power to alert and educate visitors to the importance of swimming safely be-

Busy at school: Wonthaggi’s DAS Constructions managing director Dale Sartori is thrilled to have completed the new Senior School and arts and science learning centre at Newhaven College in December last year. His company is now in full swing building the infrastructure for the new $6.3 million multipurpose gymnasium that should be complete in October or November this year. school year. While the new college continues to grow on the 82 acre site on Phillip Island Road, the original school at Boys Home Road is in the process of being pulled down. Mrs Lovell said it had been an emotional time

for many students and teachers, past and present, but conceded it was time to move on. Mrs Lovell is thrilled with how the works are progressing and is looking forward to welcoming the new Prep and other year level students on Thursday, February 1.

tween the red and yellow flags, I strongly believe that picto-grams and universal images are the best way to communicate with international visitors. Multi-lingual signage can often have an adverse effect. Where there are many languages presented the signage can become text heavy and confusing. The eye is more attracted to an image, rather than a body of text, and images are often quicker to comprehend and universal. The development of pictograms during the 1970’s, where Japan and Russia independently developed near identical ‘Exit’ signage, is a great example of this. Water safety and all of the roles Council has to play in this space was made particularly evident when I attended a Nippers session at Cape Woolamai beach last week. Nippers is a fantastic program,

teaching water safety to children and developing the surf life savers of the future. Congratulations to all involved in organising this seasons Nippers programs across the Shire. It is not new news that the three-bin system is facing some challenges over the busy period, and I would like to assure everyone that we have heard your frustrations and we can see that there is a need to review the system, in particular for holiday periods. This will absolutely be done. In the meantime, you can take any excess landfill to Bass Coast waste facilities, free of charge, until Friday 26 January. Centres in Grantville, Cowes and Wonthaggi are open seven days, and Inverloch is open Saturday to Monday. We also had a visit from Regional Development Minister, Jaala Pulford, who helped me officially unveil the functional designs for the Cowes Jetty Triangle and Piazza. This is arguably the ‘sweet spot’ in Cowes and carries so much of our local history. Future generations will continue to make their own histories in this amazing space. I can’t wait to see it finished in September, just in time for the Phillip Island 150th celebrations.

Fire risk crackdown By Brad Lester SOUTH Gippslanders who fail to address to fire risk on their properties face court action.

Officers from South Gippsland and Bass Coast shire councils are now inspecting properties for which fire prevention notices were issued to the owners for failing to mow grass, remove timber and address other fire dangers. South Gippsland Shire Council’s local laws coordinator Bruce Gardiner said, “Our assistant municipal fire prevention officers are currently working in the field checking compliance with the approximately 1100 fire prevention notices issued. “We will of course issue further fire prevention notices during the fire danger period as issues become apparent and we will continue to monitor compliance. “Anecdotally, it appears we have better levels of compliance this year but we haven’t confirmed this yet. For those non-compliant landowners, we will undertake the necessary works at these subject properties and then we will undertake enforcement action against the owners.” Bass Coast Shire Council staff began inspections of private land back in November and 110 notices have been issued where a fire hazard has been detected. “Where a notice is not complied with, the municipal fire prevention officer may arrange for a contractor to take the steps specified in the notice. The property will receive an account for the cost of this action,” a council spokesperson said. “So far, eight infringements for failure to comply with fire prevention notice have been issued. Compulsory clearance work has been undertaken in most of these cases. “In extreme cases of non-compliance, the municipal fire prevention officer does have the authority to serve a fire prevention infringement notice for failing to comply, which will require the payment of 10 penalty points within 28 days. Continued failure to comply could result in further proceedings being undertaken.”

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 17

Tips for reducing the stress of starting school STARTING school can be an exciting and challenging time for children.

According to the Kids Matter website, parents can prepare children for the changes ahead to help the child and the family make a successful start to school. In the weeks leading up to the first day, prepare for the new school day routine. Practising routine changes will help build their sense of security and reduce the stress of getting to school. Practise what going to school will be like for your child. Some children feel most confident with a lot of preparation whereas for others, too much may be overwhelming. • Travel to and from school several times as a practice run. Try going at the usual school dropoff and pick-up times; • Practise the school day routine. This may include the morning routine of getting up early, putting on your child’s uniform and packing their school bag. Setting up a regular bedtime routine will allow your child to wake up fresh; • Practise lunch time routines. Set up a pretend picnic in the backyard or park. Help your child practise getting their lunchbox out of their school bag and guide them to open it by themselves. Help your child identify what to eat for playtime and lunchtime. Ensure your child can open food packaging; • Create a visual checklist with your child. This list could include things that need to be done in the evening and morning before they leave for school; • Write a story with your child about their new school and what happens during the day. You can draw pictures or include photographs in the story and read it together. This may help to ease their anxiety about what happens during the day; • Visit the school on weekends if permitted; and • Arrange opportunities for your child to play with other children who will be starting at the same school to help them feel confident. Starting school is a big change for your child that can lead to a range of emotions. You may find your

child is excited but they may also be tired. Take the time to notice their mood, and think about how you will support your child to manage these feelings and reduce their stress. It can be helpful to reflect on what has helped your child manage and adapt to change in the past. • Consider what sorts of after school activities might be helpful for your child. For some children, minimising after school activities or waiting until your child is settled into school before introducing new activities is helpful; • Plan relaxing time after school; and • Help your child to get a good night’s sleep. Having a regular routine such as taking a bath before bedtime or reading a book may help. In the lead up to starting school, you may be concerned about how your child will cope with being separated from you. Perhaps they took a long time to adjust to being without you when they started attending preschool or day care. In your planning for school, you might like to consider: • What has helped my child in the past?; • Would my child benefit from taking a picture or special object from home?; and • What will I do to help myself cope? (eg catch up with a friend, exercise). It will also help to: • Talk to your child’s early childhood educator and new school teacher. They can help to put some ideas in place to support your child; • Develop a positive goodbye routine together (eg sharing a ‘high five’, special goodbye hug or a funny or loving gesture like a bear hug); • always say goodbye and reassure your child of when you will collect them. This helps build their trust and sense of security; • Avoid lengthy goodbyes as they may increase separation distress; • Talk positively and enthusiastically about what your child will be doing when they are away from you (eg “you will have a story”, “you’re going to have fun meeting new children”); and • Take care of your own emotions in managing

the separation. The night before school starts, it may be helpful to have your child’s uniform and clothes laid out so it is ready to be put on in the morning. Assist your child to pack their school bag so it is ready for the big day. Have a calm evening and allow more time to settle before bedtime if your child is feeling excited or nervous about starting school. On the first day, you may like to: • Allow extra time in the morning and be sure to take photos;

Making life easy: Express Office Choice Leongatha has a comprehensive range of items to help students succeed this school year. Just ask Kate Hemming for advice.

One stop shop for your school gear BOOKS, pens, glue sticks, pencil cases. Aaargh!

So much to buy for the children for school! But your stress will melt away by shopping for school at Express Office Choice Leongatha. The newsagency has an extensive range of stationery items to help families prepare for the return to school, from everyday basics to more specialist items, all at affordable prices. Pens, textas, pencils, pencil cases, book labels, binders, calculators, compasses, art smocks, backpacks, sketch pads, sharpeners, headsets and ear-

Ready to go: Outtrim’s Stella Carlisle, is excited to be starting Prep at Inverloch Primary School this month, with the well wishes of mum Mel and younger sister Coco.

• Talk positively about the day ahead on the way to school and remind your child where you will be at pick-up time; • Your child might be exhausted when they get home. Give them some down time; and • Celebrate the first day of school with a special activity or family dinner. Kids Matter is a partnership between education and health sectors and is funded by the Federal Government and beyondblue. Sourrce: www.kidsmatter.edu.au

phones are all in store. The newsagency even has lunchboxes and musical recorders! To help children study at home, parents can also buy desks, chairs and accessories. As the supplier of booklists to five schools in South Gippsland, the newsagency makes parents’ lives simpler with an online booklist ordering system at https://express.officechoice.com.au Friendly newsagency staff can deliver your order to your door or collect your orders as per your school’s arrangements.

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Sale on now: there’s only a few days left in Wrench’s Footwear’s massive back to school sale. Back to school rush: Fiona Fleming can help you find just what your child needs to be ready Pictured is owner Carl Lindsay, showcasing a selection of the range at the Wonthaggi store. for school with Wonthaggi Newsagency’s extensive range of stationery.

Find the right fit Wonthaggi Newsagency at Wrench’s Footwear is ready to help you ARE shoes on your back to school sup-

ALL school supplies are covered at Wonthaggi Newsagency.

From books and binders, to pens and highlighters, Wonthaggi Newsagency is ready to meet the needs of all students. With all essential supplies available in a range of colours and designs, students will feel ready to start a fresh new year.

On top of the newsagency’s extensive and high quality range of stationery, it has a magnificent range of art supplies to ensure art students do not go empty handed. Check out the newsagency’s catalogue specials and pick up a bargain or two. At Wonthaggi Newsagency, the back to school rush is made simple.

plies list?

There are only a few days left to find a great deal on a quality pair of shoes at Wrench’s Footwear, Wonthaggi. Wrench’s Footwear has been busy helping families prepare for school, with its big back to school sale starting on January 2. The sale is set to end this Saturday, January 20.

Clean uniforms: visit Cheryl Garner at Bass Coast Dry Cleaners, Wonthaggi, to kickstart your back to school preparations. Bass Coast Dry Cleaners is offering 15 percent off professional and quality cleaning for all school uniforms in the lead up to the 2018 school year.

With an extensive range of sizes from a wide range of leading brands, there is something to suit everyone’s needs. As well as the traditional brands Clarks and Roc, Wrench’s Footwear owner Carl Lindsay said Doc Martens are extremely popular amongst girls in high school. “They are at the age where they are more fashion conscious and it is such a universal shoe. It’s something they can wear at anytime,” he said. For the boys, Mr Lindsay said there is a trend toward the traditional school shoes, but there is still plenty of interest in sneaker brands such as New Balance. Wrench’s Footwear offers a range of sport shoes across the board for students preparing for sport classes. Converse shoes are also selling well and Sure Fit is a popular junior brand. The discounts are up to 50 percent off on selected styles and sizes. Come in and see the expert staff at Wrench’s Footwear, who will help match your child with the right shoe. Find the perfect fit during the back to school sale.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 19

Courses galore at community house WITH children about to return to school, parents and others may like to indulge in a little learning for themselves.

School needs fulfilled at Foster A NEW school year often calls for new school shoes, and Inside Out Footwear in Foster can help meet every family’s needs.

The store has a variety of styles and sizes to suit a range of budgets, with the most popular being ASICS runners and full leather t-bar girls’ school shoes by Wilde. The ASICS runners are black and so can be worn with school uniforms, and offer all the support of a traditional running shoe to help students see out the school day in comfort. Inside Out Footwear is located at 16A Main Street, Foster, and the experienced and knowledgeable staff make selecting new school shoes a joy. The store offers extensive discontinued school shoes on sale for up to 50 percent off. Over the road, the sister store Inside Out Clothing, stocks Foster Secondary College uniforms, as well as navy pants and shorts.

Above, Quality shoes: Cody and Aysha Best find the perfect shoes for school at Inside Out Footwear in Foster.

Leongatha Community House offers an extensive variety of classes starting in February, appealing to many interests and abilities during the first quarter of 2018. Learn basic clothing repairs with Linda James on the third Friday of the month from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Discover how to replace a zip, mend a buttonhole and take up a hem. The course only costs $5. The house’s Sewing and Patchworking Group meetings from 1pm to 4pm every Tuesday for a gold coin donation. Gather with others to design, sew and complete projects. Beginners are welcome. Mosaics for Beginners with Susanne Naudi will be held on Tuesday, March 13 from 10am to 4pm. Learn how to cut and place tiles, and come away with a completed project. Some materials and all equipment is provided. Just four places are available and the cost is $55. Spinning for Beginners with Janet Staben will be held on Wednesday, February 28 from 5pm to 7pm. Discover this satisfying tradition from an experienced spinner. Spinning wheels, all materials and equipment is supplied. Bookings are essential and only five places available. Cost is $25. Pot-Pourri In’s and Out’s with Shahni Hance will be held on Friday, February 23 from 10am to 11.30am. Be inspired by the variety of pot-pourri styles, scents and ingredients, and learn about their multiple uses. This is an introductory session with workshops to follow and costs $5. Photography with Mobile Phones will be hosted by Sarah Oxley on Tuesday, February 27 from 5pm to 7pm. The session includes tips for taking a

great photo with your smartphone, and Instagram for beginners and advanced users, cost is $25. Know your iPad/Android tablet with Sarah Oxley on Saturday, February 24 will run from 9am to noon, and promises to be comprehensive. The cost is $33. Leongatha Pain Support Group meets every Wednesday from February 7 from 10am to noon. Share your pain management tips with others and improve your quality of life. There is a gold coin donation. Walking Group meets every Wednesday from February 7 from 9am. Enjoy walks around town and beyond, leaving from the community house. This class is free. Circle Dancing with Tania Bird meets Tuesday every week from February 6, from 11.30am to 12.30pm. Join with others to enjoy this fun activity. These sessions are at the Dakers Centre. The cost is $5 per session. Photography for Beginners with Roy Fisher is a fun and relaxing class on six Tuesdays from February 20 to March 27, from 7pm to 9pm, cost is $90. Safe Online Shopping by Consumer Affairs Victoria will be held on Tuesday, February 20 from 1pm to 3pm, and is free. Learn how to identify scams and what to do about them. Legal Information Sessions is held on the second Tuesday of every month from April, from 9.30am to 10.30am. This series of free sessions covers wills and powers of attorney, advance care planning, conveyancing and retirement/aged care accommodation. Accredited training courses will be offered, including First Aid Level Two on Saturday, February 24, and Food Safety Level One on Tuesday, February 27.

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 21

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Duo receive leadership honours TWO South Gippslanders have been nominated for the Victorian Young Achiever Awards in recognition of their achievements.

In progress: from left, Michael Cook, Liam Henry and John Hunter from Hunter Trade Service were on deck restoring The Ripple replica in Inverloch on Wednesday.

New life for Ripple By Brad Lester AN OLD ship is receiving a new lease of life at Inverloch thanks to Bass Coast Shire Council. The replica of The Ripple on Inverloch’s foreshore is being restored by contractors appointed by council. The replica was built in 2007 by the Inverloch Historical Society and Inverloch Clocktower Committee, a volunteer group that staged such events as a billy cart derby to raise funds for the project. A council spokesperson said, “The Ripple was built through an amazing community effort, with some elements of the structure constructed out of materials that deteriorated in the marine environment.” However timber on the hull, decking and coach houses of the replica was rotting, and new treated timber is being installed throughout. Additional sub-soil drainage will be installed to prevent future rotting. Council staff assessed the replica and deemed it required immediate works to ensure safety and longevity. Council has allocated Hunter Trade Service to undertake the works, which are expected to cost around $65,000 and to be completed late February. When constructed, The Ripple was on state road reserve which has since been re-zoned and is now under council’s management. The Ripple tells the tale of the extensive maritime importance for the Inverloch township. The original ketch was built in 1872 near Gosford,

Gippsland despite the State Government withdrawing from a

• McMillan MP Russell Broadbent.

Leading the way: Jamin Heppell, formerly of Leongatha, is among the nominees for the Victorian Young Achiever Awards. able to attend the Awards Dinner will be presented on stage with a framed certificate in recognition of their achievements. Category winners will each receive $1000 and a magnificent trophy. One of the 10 category winners will be chosen as the Victorian Young Achiever of the Year and will receive a $2000 flight voucher from Jetstar and a state trophy.

Historic vessel: a photo of The Ripple by Allan Green, from the collection of the State Library of Victoria. New South Wales, and from the 1880s to 1929, travelled between Inverloch and Williamstown, connecting the South Gippsland coast with Melbourne, via Newhaven. The ketch brought supplies from Melbourne, including timber for the first house to be built in Inverloch, returning loaded with produce and items for sale in Melbourne. “The fare was £5 ($250 in today’s money), overnight with meals supplied. Baggage and dogs were carried free of charge. Freight was also carried,” states the website eatonfamily.net.au

MP backs mobile network funding MOBILE phone services will continue to be improved in South

Miranda Wilson of Meeniyan and Jamin Heppell, formerly of Leongatha has been nominated for the First National Real Estate Leadership Award. The awards aim to encourage, reward and promote the positive achievements of young Victorians up to and including 29 years of age. Miranda has been head coach of Leongatha Gymnastics Club since 2012 and during that time, the number of members has risen from 100 to 400. She heads a coaching team of 20, leads by example, has raised the club’s profile, upskilled coaching staff, given teenagers employment, and continues to update her own training. Miranda has put her heart and soul into developing the Leongatha Gymnastics Club to what

it is today. Jamin has founded three social enterprises and is the director of two profit for purpose companies. His first enterprise was Game Changers Australia, which develops the leadership and resilience of grassroots sporting leaders, and the program has now benefited more than 750 young people. His second social enterprise, Healthy Communities Australia, has seen 140 parents of primary school children take part in regular exercise at schools. His third social enterprise is The Man Cave and works with years seven to 12 boys to improve their mental health and emotional intelligence, understand gender inequality and the value of respectful relationships. The Man Cave also offers fatherson camps. Finalists will be presented and winners announced at an Awards Gala Presentation Dinner at Flemington–The Event Centre on Friday, May 18. All nominees who are

federal program. That is the view of McMillan MP Russell Broadbent, after the State Government last week announced it has abandoned the Federal Mobile Black Spot Program in favour of its own system, claiming the federal program chose mobile tower locations based on political interests. The State Government said it would use the $11 million it planned to invest in the third round of the federal program to build new mobile towers across regional Victoria to remove mobile blackspots. Victorian Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford said, “We will not compromise when it comes to community needs and safety. We’re working with Emergency Management Victoria, local councils and regional partnerships to get this

right.” However Mr Broadbent, a Liberal MP, said the federal program had improved mobile phone coverage in South Gippsland. “We have been working closely with Telstra and it is keen to provide improved service to South Gippsland. If the State Government pulls out, it means we will do less,” he said.

In the running: Miranda Wilson of Meeniyan is a nominee in the Victorian Young Achiever Awards.

Push for suicide prevention network THE Wesley LifeForce networks team will be hosting a meeting with South Gippsland people on Thursday, February 1 with the aim of forming a suicide prevention network. Wesley LifeForce works with communities around the country to bring together local individuals and organisations that go on to develop local suicide prevention strategies. The meeting at the Leongatha Salvation Army Corps, 2 Long Street, Leongatha, will be the first of its kind. It is the result of discussions in 2013 between Wesley LifeForce and service representatives working in the area of mental

health. Wesley Mission’s CEO, Rev Dr Keith V Garner, encouraged residents to get involved. “The aim is to empower people to tackle this difficult issue in a manner best suited to the needs of people living in South Gippsland,” he said. “Simple effective interventions can make a difference and save lives – and Wesley LifeForce networks can help communities develop local activities that address the issue of suicide.” The meeting will be held at 7pm on Thursday, February 1 at the Leongatha Salvation Army Corps. To book your place, please call 0417 932 602.

No change to Australia Day AUSTRALIA Day ceremonies will go on as normal in South Gippsland and Bass Coast. Despite nationwide controversy over the date of Australia Day, mayors of both local councils reported no complaints from their respective communities. Bass Coast Shire Council mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said it would continue to celebrate Australia Day on January 26 unless there was a plebiscite.

“It is a huge issue, and a plebiscite would be required for such a big change. If a plebiscite were to occur, we would listen to and support what the community wants,” she said. “We haven’t had any complaints come to council, and people will continue to spend the day in their own ways. In the meantime, there will be activities going on around the shire and a citizenship ceremony will be held in Wonthaggi.” The Bass Coast South Gippsland

Reconciliation Group will have a get together and a walk at Churchill Island. South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Lorraine Brunt said the council also hadn’t heard any opposition. Ceremonies will go ahead in Dumbalk, Foster, Kongwak, Leongatha, Meeniyan, Mirboo North, Pound Creek and Venus Bay on January 26, with the Australia Day award set to be presented tomorrow night (Wednesday, January 17).

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 23

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Cottage charm, garden oasis S

ITTING on a north facing, generous quarter acre (1012 m2) block, on the preferred high side of the road, this fully refurbished home offers comfortable, low maintenance living amongst landscaped surrounds.

With much of its original cottage charm intact, the three bedroom home has been fully reclad (including new windows), painted and insulated. The lounge room retains the original fireplace, with an efficient wood heater insert for efficiency. There’s also a reverse-cycle air conditioner for year round comfort. The bathroom has also been updated, with a new shower and second toilet added. The east facing kitchen/dining area enjoys morning sunshine – what a perfect way to start your day. Outside is a garden paradise with fully landscaped gardens front and rear. Enjoy meandering through and watching the birdlife that also finds this a great place to be. A garage and workshed complete the picture. All the hard work has been done. Just move in oy. and enjoy.

MIRBOO NORTH 64 Baromi Road Alex Scott and Staff Leongatha 5662 0922

$265,000 3

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

DUMBALK 190 Gooleys Lane Stockdale and Leggo Leongatha Michael Hanily SOLE 0417 311 756

AGEN

$399,000

Acreage under $400,000 I

N today’s current market you rarely find nearly four acres with a good sized family home for $399,000. Set on 3.67 acres in some of South Gippsland’s finest landscape, this cute brick veneer has loads to offer.

Inside features polished boards throughout, neutral paintwork and dado railing. The new kitchen has hardwood timber benchtops with plenty of bench area, electric oven and gas cooktop. Completing the kitchen is an open pantry, dishwasher and dining area with direct access to

the backyard. The separate lounge room is a good size with a solid fuel heater and reverse cycle air-conditioner, while the second livingroom is ideal for a children’s playroom or an area for the parents to escape with separate reverse cycle air-conditioner. There are three bedrooms with the master including a walk-in robe and ensuite. Outside the land is divided into four paddocks with a large dam which has an electric pump to all the garden taps and troughs. The round yards are fantastic for horse lovers, and along with a large barn style shed and separate double lock-up garage, both with concrete floor and power, this property is value for money.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;? Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 25

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Fabulous family living T LEONGATHA

UCKED away in a quiet little cul-de-sac, is this beautiful home on a deceivingly large block of 777m2.

Comprising four bedrooms, two formal lounge areas and an expansive open plan kitchen/dining area, this home has it all. The master bedroom boasts a large walk-in robe and ensuite, and the remaining three bedrooms are all generous with built-in robes. The nucleus of the home is the kitchen, with a large breakfast bar, gas cooktop, electric oven, range hood and dishwasher. Large expansive windows throughout the home allow for plenty of natural light

and the neutral colour scheme throughout is pleasant and accommodating. The beauty of this home and the cleverly designed floor plan means it could easily accommodate a growing family or would be perfect for retirees who could close off the remaining three bedrooms and live comfortably in one half of the house. The home is climate controlled by way of a split system, the block is lovely and flat, and the garden is low maintenance. It represents great value and is positioned on the block in a way that provides privacy and seclusion. Take the opportunity to inspect this lovely property today.

2 Lapin Court Landmark Harcourts Leongatha Kellie Thomas 0438 647 499

$410,000 4

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Bass Coast ready for fires BASS Coast’s Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee has been working hard to prepare for the summer’s bushfire season.

Prepared: Bass Coast gets fire ready with representatives from the Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee.

Technology to limit bushfires NEW technology will assist local CFA in the midst of the bushfire season.

Leading edge technology is being installed in selected high bush fire risk areas over the next seven years across 22 locations in the Ausnet Services network. The technology reduces the risk of power line related bushfires by an estimated 50 per cent, according to the State Government’s Power Line Bushfire Safety Taskforce. Specifically, the Rapid Earth Fault Current Limiter (REFCL) technology device limits the amount of energy released when an earth fault occurs on a power line. This type of fault can be caused as a result of a fallen power line, a tree falling against a power line or wildlife touching a pole and

power line at the same time. The device detects and cuts the energy flow from the earth fault – within a 10th of a second – thereby reducing the possibility of a fire being started, Wonthaggi was identified as one of the high bushfire risk areas by the taskforce. Once installed, the technology will benefit Wonthaggi, Dalyston, Kilcunda, San Remo, Anderson, Woolamai, Ryanston, Glen Forbes, Glen Alvie, Outtrim and Inverloch. The installation is expected to be completed in Wonthaggi in mid 2018, dependent on weather. Wonthaggi will be one of the first locations in Victoria to receive the technology. Other areas identified as high risk bushfire areas in the Gippsland region were Moe, Sale and Bairnsdale.

Discover an enchanting walk THE Lyrebird Forest Walk is on the Strzelecki Highway just out of Mirboo North, and is an ideal place to visit these school holidays. The track takes you through beautiful lush rainforest and is only an easy one and a half hour walk suitable for people of all ages. On the walk discover mountain grey gums, blackwood, brown stringy barks, and the sound of birds singing. You may come across grazing swamp

wallabies, echidnas or the black cockatoo amongst the more open vegetation. There is also the opportunity to stroll through the gully by the Little Morwell River where platypuses have been spotted, continue your walk across the bridge to the Coral Fern Gully. Native animals you may see include lyrebirds, Crimson Rosellas, short and long nosed bandicoots, koalas, wombats and black wallabies. A night walk with a torch can be worthwhile searching for mysterious birds and creatures.

The committee has developed the Municipal Fire Management Plan, which identifies different levels of bushfire risk for different localities, and identifies how to reduce the risk. The committee includes the CFA, Victoria Police, Parks Victoria, Forest Fire Management Victoria, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Bass Coast Shire Council and VicRoads. These agencies work together with Ausnet Services, Westernport Water and South Gippsland Water to plan for potential bushfire emergencies in Bass Coast. Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said council has identified where and how to reduce fire risk across Bass Coast. “In preparation for the upcoming fire season, officers have been out inspecting private land and issuing notices to people who need to cut their grass or to remove fire hazards where identified,” she said. “Council’s roadside slashing program has also been completed to reduce roadside fuels and limit the likelihood of ignitions caused by hot vehicle parts.”

Council also maintains fire access tracks and static water tanks that are checked during the lead in to summer to ensure their availability for fire agencies. The Phillip Island Nature Parks has also identified fire management priorities. This includes visitor and community safety, protection of life and property and the protection of wildlife habitat such as the little penguin and short tailed shearwater colonies, and koala habitat. The main fire prevention activities that Phillip Island Nature Parks undertake are vegetation management, slashing of strategic fuel breaks near residential areas, ranger patrols and education, and preparing their fire fighting vehicles to conduct first attacks on fires. Parks Victoria’s Gerard Delaney said due to the early season fires in East Gippsland and the underlying dryness, fire preparedness works have started slightly earlier than usual across the Bass Coast shire areas managed by Parks Victoria. “Fire protection slashing in various reserves around the Wonthaggi township area has been completed,” he said. “Any potential fire hazard concerns relating to public land in your area can be directed to the Parks Victoria information line on 131 963.”

Community cares for Hooded Plovers THE future of Phillip Island’s threatened Hooded Plovers is looking up, with a positive start to this year’s breeding season.

Up until mid-December there have been 16 chicks recorded on beaches from a total of 19 nests, which is the second highest number of chicks ever recorded to this period. “The successful outcomes that we are seeing with the Hooded Plover population here on Phillip Island are due in large part to the Nature Parks and the local community working together,” said Jessica McKelson, Phillip Island Nature Parks’ conservation manager. “Our rangers have been protecting the hoodies on the island’s beaches for several years now and have achieved excellent results, but it is no coincidence we have enjoyed some of our greatest successes since the community has really come on board and taken this threatened species under its wing.” Hooded Plover chicks are extremely vulnerable as their nests lay in the sand dunes, and as soon as

FRESH BREWS LOCALNEWS

RECEIVE 10 FREE COFFEES at Leongatha’s Number 9 Dream

they hatch they must travel long stretches of beach in search of food and also to get to the water to remain hydrated. The parents do their best to distract predators for the 35 days it takes for the chicks to fly, but we can also play a huge role in protecting these birds until they fledge, or leave the nest. The Nature Parks has been actively managing threats to the Hooded Plovers through a range of measures including monitoring, creation of nest refuges, and the island-wide eradication of foxes which has benefitted so many animal species. “We established the Hooded Plover Watch in 1998, and these local volunteer wardens spend time not only monitoring the birds but also educating other community members and visitors, giving them some simple, key actions we can all adopt such as stay out of sand dunes and where possible, walk close to the water’s edge, and keep clear of nest areas,” Ms McKelson said. “One of the most important rules is having no dogs on the beach unless signed,

Optimistic future: this breeding season for Hooded Plovers is looking bright. especially during summer when dogs are only allowed on designated beaches in the early morning and evening. If on a beach where dogs are allowed, please keep them on a leash at all times, with the exception of any designated, seasonal off leash areas.” The Hooded Plover population has increased from a low of 21 in 2001 to around 50 today, with a total of 13 chicks fledg-

ing on Phillip Island last year. This number is well above the average and also above the target of eight fledglings per year which is the minimum required to maintain this population increase. If you are interested in becoming a member of Hooded Plover Watch please contact the Nature Parks’ volunteer coordinator at volunteers@penguins.org.au.

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 27

The Good Life

Your LOCAL guide to Art and Entertainment

Pretty as a picture at Gecko gallery

Love that sound: from left, Barry Duvoison, Luke Anthony, Frank DeGennaro, Jen Holm and Andrew Clark are Red Sector.

THE next exhibition at Gecko Studio Gallery at Fish Creek is Picturesque.

The curated group exhibition is inspired by all that is picturesque and the many ways this theme may be interpreted. The show runs from January 19 to February 19, with everyone welcome to the opening event on Friday, January 19 at 6pm. Artists involved are Susan Quinn, Chris Larsen, Andrew McPherson, Mandy Gunn, Mae Adams, Jan Learmonth, Mary Sullivan, Annie Stark, Deb LeCerf, Peter Cole, Tony Hanning, Rod Bechaz, Ros Atkins, Anne Miller, Kim McDonald, Adrian Johnson, Daniel Jenkins, Janie Frith, Dennis Leversha, Paul Satchell, Wendy Satchell, Kerry Spokes, Susan Purdy and Jim Patterson. The opening event is expected to be a lively affair with many artists attending and some interesting characters amongst them. “Many have exhibited with Gecko before and most are local to South Gippsland or larger Gippsland,” the gallery’s Michael Lester said. “Mediums used will vary and we have little idea of what will be in the show until the works turn up for the exhibition setup.” The gallery is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week until January 29 and will then open 9am to 4pm Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesday and Wednesday).

Red Sector turns 30 THEY’VE been entertaining South Gippsland and beyond for 30 years, and now their fans and friends are invited to a grand show to help this iconic local band celebrate.

Red Sector will perform its 30th anniversary show on Australia Day (Friday, January 26) at the Grand Ridge Brewery, Mirboo North, at 9pm. Entry is $10. The versatile South Gippsland based cover band specialises in private functions, corporate functions and conferences, and has performed at fundraising balls and weddings, through to the Phillip Island Moto GP and at Crown Casino. The band’s repertoire is diverse, covering from dance floor tunes to classic and new rock, and easy listening music.

The band now features Jen Holm on vocals and keyboards. She played with the Royal Australian Navy Band and toured internationally, and has sung the national anthem at the MCG on Anzac Day. Luke Anthony is a diverse musician, singing and playing guitar, keyboards and harmonica, and has played in originals and covers bands since 1988. Drummer Frank DeGennaro’s credits included Taipan, Roxus and Vital Signs. He has toured internationally and played in bands supporting acts such as Poison and The Screaming Jets. Andrew Clark is a hard rocking guitarist who also sings and plays keyboard. Bass guitarist Barry Duvoison also sings, and has been part of the Julie Mason Band and Never Too Loud. Founding drummer Rod Whitfield will be attending the show.

Two Daves and one big laugh TWO famous Daves with a penchant for making people laugh are coming to Wonthaggi.

Iconic sight: Tony Hanning’s pastel, Grand Ridge Road, will be among the works to be shown in Gecko Studio Gallery’s forthcoming exhibition, Picturesque.

They are comedians Dave O’Neil and Dave Hughes, and will deliver jokes about the local area and everyday life on the stage of the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club on Saturday, January 27. They’ve been there before and filled the house with fans who went home with stitches from laughing. Beats having to run to get a stitch any day. The stand-up comedians have formed a first class comedic act over years of performing together on ra-

Jokes galore: Dave O’Neil (above) and Dave Hughes (left) promise a memorable night of comedy at Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club on Saturday, January 27.

dio and then touring performing comedy. Now with three children each, their repertoire has been expanded to cover parenting and relationships, as well as current affairs, and the audience can expect to hear a few jokes about the local area too. O’Neil’s family holidayed in the area when he was younger (he’s still not that old) and he tells the true story about how one year he and other teenagers made spears and played about in the dunes. When they returned the next year, the same dunes had been roped off and a sign stated the area was out of bounds due to ancient weapons being found and an archaeological dig now being underway. Hughes’ inlaws have a beach house at Inverloch and he said he feels like he’s part of the Wonthaggi neighbourhood. “We’re looking to have a bit of fun on the night,” he said, adding audiences can expect jokes around his own life and current affairs, and that Wonthaggi is the start of his year of stand-up comedy. The Daves will reflect on the good old days of before computer games and mobile phones. O’Neil and Hughesy first worked together at radio station Triple R, before joining Triple M and then Nova. They’re now working on a television show, Hughesy, We Have a Problem, that will air soon on Channel 10 and follow comedians attempting to solve people’s problems. Doors to the Wonthaggi show in the club’s Kirrak Room open at 8.30pm. Book early to secure your tickets at $25 for members and $30 for guests. Tickets available at reception or call the club on 5672 1083 for more information.

‘SUMMER SHADES’ The magnificent art of Di & John Koenders Wildlife & Landscapes ON NOW UNTIL Mon, JAN 29, 2018 (including ALL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS)

Open Daily: 11am to 5pm Fully Air-conditioned for your comfort

Fairbank Rd, Arawata

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www.mayfieldgallery.com.au info@mayfieldgallery.com.au KOE9390032

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;? Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 29

Walkerville talks fire risk THE first fire meeting for the year for Walkerville residents was a bushfire ready session conducted by Kate Graham from the Country Fire Authority.

The usual sumptuous monthly tea was enjoyed by 44 people, who settled down to listen to Kate talk through the preparations the community needs to make this summer season. A number of new residents were present, and felt more informed and ready for action should a fire occur. Stay and defend or leave early was the critical

message, and people were urged to make a plan and decision, and stick with it. The residents of Walkerville meet on the first Friday night of the month from October to March for a community tea with members of their fire brigade, and discuss any concerns or questions they may have. This has proved to be the catalyst for the brigade gaining new members, especially younger residents, who may never have given much thought to joining. Now they are learning new skills and becoming active in the community.

Hot topic: Kate Graham from the Country Fire Authority discusses fire safety with Walkerville residents.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Creative bunch: from left, members of Waratah Red Cross, Dorothy Fairbrother and Roz Hunt, with some of the baking for sale at the group’s cake stall.

OLIVER Grayson Azzopardi was born on January 6 at Leongatha Hospital. Oliver a long awaited IVF miracle for Erin and Robert Azzopardi of Leongatha.

Cake stall beats the heat IN spite of the 40 degree day, Waratah Red Cross Group succeeded in making around $1407 at its annual Cake and Produce Stall held in the Memorial Hall at Walkerville on January 6.

Although this was less than previous years, many people turned up and, considering the extreme heat, it was a rewarding venture for the baking efforts of the local members. There was a variety of quality cakes, slices and biscuits, along with garden produce. Troy Maher of Melbourne won the raffle.

Yum, yum: Clive Landy from Walkerville looks happy with his cake bought from the Waratah Red Cross Group’s cake stall.

Tarwin Red Cross serves

SHANTEL Tilly Grant is the first child for Shawn and Sherlyn Grant of Grantville. Shantel was born at Bass Coast Health on December 21, 2017.

TARWIN Lower Red Cross Unit finished 2017 with a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings.

Baked delights: from left, Walkerville residents Margaret Robertson, Elizabeth Landy and Deb Bray with a selection of goods on offer at the Waratah Red Cross Group’s cake stall.

The Christmas hamper was drawn with Mick Giround and a girl Marcie, who won a hamper each. The proceeds of $856 were forwarded to headquarters to go towards a single incident relief fund in Australia. Glenda Arbuthnot gave a report from the regional meeting held at Meeniyan followed by a lovely lunch provided by the Meeniyan Unit ladies. She was elected as the new chairman with Ron Hateley from Phillip Island named secretary. It was a pleasure for Glenda to award Val Latham her 20 year service badge for her valued services to Red Cross. All members and the public are invited to attend Australia Day celebrations at the Venus Bay Life Savers Club on January 26. A Postie Fashion Day is being organised in February as a fundraiser for the unit. The unit’s next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 6 at the Tarwin Lower Health Centre at 1.30pm.

ESTER Groom-Ansara arrived at Bass Coast Health on January 5. She is a daughter for Alice Ansara and Robbie Groom, and a sister for Mavis, all from Wonthaggi.

Taking shape: work has started on Kirrak House’s garden upgrade at Wonthaggi Hospital. The project is due for completion by the end of March 2018.

Kirrak House about to blossom THE grounds of Bass Coast Health’s Kirrak House are about to undergo a serious make-over, with work on the Garden Refurbishment Project starting last week and due for completion by the end of March 2018.

When finished, the residents of Kirrak House, at Wonthaggi Hospital, will be able to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of completely new landscaped areas, which will include wheelchair-friendly paths spanning the entire site, a viewing deck overlooking the horses in the adjacent paddock, a sensory garden, a water feature, a beach-themed area and spaces for quiet contemplation. More active residents will be able to take advantage of raised vegetable gardens, interactive letterboxes and clothes line and a chicken coop. The end results are eagerly awaited by both staff and residents according to Kirrak House’s nurse unit manager Kerry Evans, who said, “Everyone is so excited the works

have started. It took a while to get things off the ground for various reasons, so now that it’s begun, there’s a real buzz in the air.” The project was made possible when Bass Coast Health obtained $260,216 from the Department of Health and Human Services – part of $8 million in state funds made available for refurbishment projects to public sector residential aged care facilities across Victoria. Kirrak House offers high quality, person centred care for 30 residents in single or double rooms, all with adjacent en suites. Residents enjoy the centrally located lounge/dining area as well as the spacious activities space which opens out onto a paved outdoor area. Kirrak House is staffed by a team of passionate and committed nurses, carers, therapists and lifestyle and leisure staff who partner with residents and families to provide tailored and individualised care. As a part of Bass Coast Health, residents are well supported by all areas of the health service. If you would like further information about respite or permanent care at Kirrak House please contact 5671 3222.

LUIS Jon Jackson is the first child for Matthew and Emma Jackson from Silverleaves, Phillip Island. Luis was born at Bass Coast Health on January 5.

Thanks for helping: Glenda Arbuthnot (left) presented Val Latham with a 20 year service badge for her service to Red Cross. MADISON Louise McAdam was born at Bass Coast Health on January 4. She is a daughter for Amy McLean and Matthew McAdam, and a sister for Aiden. The family is from Exmouth, Western Australia.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 31

Farming Insight

VFF calls for illegal workers amnesty By Sarah Vella THE Victorian Farmers Federation is hoping to establish a dedicated agriculture visa to ensure the horticultural industry has access to the labour it needs to remain sustainable.

VFF horticulture president Emma Germano, whose family grows vegetables in Mirboo North, said the whole purpose of the visa would be to get fruit and vegetables picked. In the meantime, the VFF Horticulture Policy Council wants an amnesty on workers without working visas. “Because there is the perception a lot of people in the industry are without working rights, they are most open to being exploited by labour hire contractors or employers” Ms Germano said. “The amnesty is a way of giving them protection under law and will help growers secure a legal labour force.” Both the amnesty and a standalone agriculture visa were backed by federal MPs and senators in December after the joint parliamentary committee inquiry into modern slavery. Ms Germano said horticulture was far more labour intensive than other agricultural industries, but illegal workers were not a problem just specific to horticulture. “We will continue to lobby for labour policies and not just this issue, but we see (the amnesty) as a great place to start,” she said. “From there we can build on it. We can’t expect the industry to become compliant over night. There needs to be a pathway to compliance.” With some of the highest labour costs around the world, one of the issues challenging the Australian industry is remaining globally competitive. Growers have to overcome the labour shortage, while absorbing costs in what can often be an uneven playing field. “Some growers would like to be compliant, but

don’t have access to a legal workforce,” Ms Germano said. “We are reviewing all the labour options to find where there might be gaps to determine how industry and government can partner to make sure those

gaps are filled.” dreds of people each day and the workforce could be Ms Germano said growers have to vet every constantly changing. worker that comes onto their property, which be“To have to vet all those people every single day comes impractical. of the week becomes really challenging,” she said. She said some larger farms could employ hun“If the Australian Tax Office, the Fair Work Ombudsman and immigration struggle to do it, how do they expect growers to do it in an efficient manner? “The fact we have to do that shows the government knows there are people without working rights.” Ms Germano said the industry is trying to achieve a way forward, to ensure a vibrant, globally competitive and sustainable horticultural industry. “There is so much pressure on growers, if small farms are forced out of business, it could threaten the food security of Australia,” she said.

Illegal work: Victoria Farmers Federation horticulture president Emma Germano said the industry needs an amnesty period to flush out illegal workers within the industry.

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Farming Insight Nursery’s future secure THE vision of long term Phillip Island resident Barb Martin to establish, preserve and defend Phillip Island’s indigenous plant and wildlife habitat will live on.

al to manage the nursery,” Anne mote and make available local, Davie, Bushbank president said. indigenous plants to local com“We were delighted when the munity conservation groups and board met just before Christmas the public. The Nature Parks will work and endorsed the transitioning of the management of the Bushbank with a working group from the Bushbank to ensure all existing to the Nature Parks.” The Bushbank will retain the plant commitments are met, and Barb Martin name, and the Na- there is a smooth transition bePhillip Island Nature Parks ture Parks will continue to pro- tween the two organisations. recently announced it would continue the operations of the Barb Martin Bushbank, named in her honour. Almost 20 years after the not for profit native plant nursery was established in 1998, the Bushbank committee identified that to remain viable and achieve the organisation’s goals, it needed to investigate alternatives to its existing operating model. “With a shared vision of conserving and enhancing the natural environment, as well as operating within the framework of a not for profit business model, the Phillip Island Nature Parks was a logical choice, so the committee unanimously agreed to approach the Social times: volunteers at Phillip Island’s Barb Martin Nature Parks board with a propos- Bushbank prepare native plants for revegetation works.

• VLE Leongatha

Firm prices the trend THERE were approximately 1,050 export and 250 young cattle penned representing an increase of 540 head week on week.

The usual buying group was present but not all operating fully in a mostly firm market which was a little easier in places. Quality improved with greater numbers of prime cattle on offer, while there was still plenty of variety. Trade cattle sold from firm to slightly dearer on most sales. Grown steers and bullocks sold firm for a better quality selection. Heavy weight grown heifers sold firm. Heavy Friesian manufacturing steers eased 15c/kg of last week’s gain, while the crossbred portion held firm. Heavy weight cows eased 1c to 4c, while the light and medium weight cows were between 7c and 14c/kg cheaper. The better shaped heavy bulls eased 8c/kg, while the dairy lots averaged close to firm. Vealers suited to butchers sold from 280c to 304c/kg. Yearling trade steers made between 266c and 294c/kg. Yearling heifers to the trade sold between 250c and 285c/kg. Grown steers made from 260c and 278c/kg. Bullocks sold from 260c to 277c/kg. Heavy weight grown heifers made between 245c and 259c/kg. Heavy weight Friesian manufacturing steers sold between 222c and 237c with the crossbred portion between 237c and 266c/kg. Most light and medium weight cows made from 157c to 214c/kg. Heavy weight cows sold from 195c to 233c/kg. The better shaped heavy bulls made between 228c and 290c with the dairy portion between 210c and 248c/kg. The next sale draw - January 17 & 18: 1. Alex Scott & Staff, 2. Rodwells, 3. Phelan & Henderson & Co, 4. Landmark, 5. SEJ, 6. Elders. Sheep Sale Wednesday, January 17 at 12pm.

Prime Sale - Wednesday, January 10

BULLOCKS 12 T. & M. Neesham, French Island 5 M.L. & A. Giardina, Thorpdale 9 K.R. Hendrick, Kirrak 12 L. & M. Wicks, Yinnar 6 J.A. & R.M. Bennett, Yinnar 7 A. & G. Campbell, Mirboo North

690.8kg 712.0kg 570.6kg 666.7kg 606.7kg 607.1kg

277.0 275.6 274.6 274.6 272.0 270.6

$1913.61 $1962.27 $1566.75 $1830.67 $1650.13 $1642.93

STEERS 1 G. & R. Jarvie, Hazelwood 3 M. Selling, Sale 4 K. Oddy, Boolarra South 1 J. Geary, Leongatha 1 T.J. & S.G. Cuff, Jumbunna 1 G.J. & K.L. Roberts, Binginwarri

380.0kg 393.3kg 312.5kg 410.0kg 390.0kg 370.0kg

303.6 296.2 293.6 288.6 283.6 277.6

$1153.68 $1165.05 $917.50 $1183.26 $1106.04 $1027.12

HEIFERS 4 K.J. & M.L. Fisher, Tarwin South 1 M. Selling, Sale 3 G. & R. Jarvie, Hazelwood 1 L. & G. Davies, Woolamai 4 S.P. Dunlop, Meeniyan 1 A. Dixon, Loch

361.3kg 410.0kg 351.7kg 350.0kg 427.5kg 430.0kg

300.0 296.2 295.0 291.6 285.0 284.6

$1083.75 $1214.42 $1037.42 $1020.60 $1218.38 $1223.78

COWS 2 D.M. Phelan, Binginwarri 1 Netherwood Pastoral, Burwood 1 N. & G. Stollery, Hallston 7 J. Geary, Leongatha 1 T. & V. Porter, Yarram 1 W. Ponton, Boolarra

627.5kg 700.0kg 755.0kg 657.9kg 515.0kg 665.0kg

228.0 226.0 226.0 225.6 225.0 225.0

$1430.70 $1582.00 $1706.30 $1484.13 $1158.75 $1496.25

BULLS 1 P, D, B. & I. Gale, Waratah Nth 1170.0KG 1 H. & M. Stollery, Mirboo North 1045.0kg 1 Groves Estate P/L, Jam Jerrup 1095.0kg 1 Merlewood Angus, Mirboo Nth 990.0kg 1 Lloyd Hengstberger, Stony Creek 730.0kg 1 P.H., N.F. & D.P. Moore, Yarram 1005.0kg

290.0 270.0 270.0 250.0 250.0 250.0

$3393.00 $2821.50 $2956.50 $2475.00 $1825.00 $2512.50

MARKET REPORT Brought to you by...

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 33

Farming Insight Grand title: Loch’s Will Barton, Noelene King and James Barton picked up the Senior Champion Cow prize at the Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show on Saturday. More show photos on pages 6 and 7.

Local water report for South Gippsland HAVE you received this year’s annual local water report?

For the first time this year Southern Rural Water has emailed the annual local water reports to subscribers. The report provides a snapshot of local water usage and availability. It includes graphs from local state observation bores to show how groundwater levels have moved over time, as well as information on water trading in the area. The variations in water use are normal and can be attributed to rainfall and other weather fluctuations each year. The South Gippsland Basin report shows that the Tarwin River maintained steady flows throughout the last irrigation season, but the Tarra, Grieg and Jack Rivers all had some periods of restrictions. Total volume taken by river licence holders during the 2016-17 season was less than the previous three years. In total, 2,415ML were taken by irrigators from rivers and creeks across the basin during the 2016-17 season, compared with 3,842ML the previous year and 2,915ML in 2014-15. Groundwater in the region has remained steady over the last 12 months. The Yarram Groundwater Management Unit levels continue to showing long term decline. Groundwater usage in the area was 14,437ML for the 2016-17 season, compared with 17,825ML the previous year and 12,514ML in 2014-15. There were three permanent trades and two temporary trades from rivers and creeks in the past 12 months. SRW encourages water trading either on a temporary or permanent basis. Those who have excess water can gain funds for other farm investments and those in need of water can ensure they meet their production goals. Information on water trading is available by calling 1300 139 510 or visiting the SRW website and visiting the free online WaterMatch service.

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

ASSISTANT LIQUOR MANAGER Would you like to join a dynamic team and have the opportunity to grow with the company and move your career to a higher level? Michaels SUPA IGA Stores are looking to expand and require managers to ﬁll existing positions with a capacity to move into more senior roles as they become available. Location: Michaels SUPA IGA Stores, South Gippsland Reporting to: Liquor Manager, Store Manager, Assistant Manager Availability: Alternating Rosters (Some public holidays) Attractive Salary Package on Offer The successful applicant will have a proven track record of: • Liquor experience and wine knowledge • Cashiering, stocking and retail sales work • Delivering excellent quality and service standards • Working well in a team environment • Achieving sales and wage control targets • Assisting the liquor manager in day to day operations • Maintaining a work schedule and rostering that reﬂects the customers’ needs and at the same time meeting wage budgets • Maintaining store pricing and ticketing • Ability to work evenings and weekends • Creating attractive displays and special promotions • Fork Lift Licence preferred but not essential Applications can be sent to the below details: Chris O’Leary mgrlg@michaelsiga.com.au 03 5662 6644

Prom Country Aged Care is a community-based residential aged care service located at Prom Country House in Foster. We provide ageing in place residential care services as well as shortterm respite care for our local community. Our 60 bed home is fully licensed and accredited to Government standards. We are searching for motivated, enthusiastic and caring individuals to join our care team in the role of Registered Nurse.

Registered Nurse Fixed term contract / Casual relief work Our Registered Nurses work to ensure the direct care needs of all residents are met through overseeing and evaluating care plans, and the individualised nursing needs of the residents. Key selection criteria: Essential • Demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Must be a team player with the ability to multi-task • The ability to demonstrate a professional and friendly manner at all times • Demonstrated high level of analytical, written and verbal skills • Demonstrated initiative and the ability to work without supervision • Demonstrated excellent time management skills Desirable • Mature outlook with the ability to relate and converse with older people Fixed term contract Monday 23.00-07.15 nigh duty every 4th week (dates available on request) Casual and Relief position at PCAC and Carinya Lodge Through our partnership with Carinya Lodge, there are casual positions available to relieve long service, annual leave and vacant shifts in Foster and Korumburra. Applications close 5pm Friday 19 January 2018 For a position description or other enquiries: Carina Ross, Care Manager T: 03 5682 0800 E: carina.ross@promcountryagedcare.com.au Please send your resumé and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria to: carina.ross@promcountryagedcare.om.au

Timber Yard/Driver Position Capeview Mitre 10 - Leongatha Capeview Hardware – Mitre 10 is looking for 2 Timber Yard/Driver Team Members in our Leongatha store. You will be required to offer exceptional customer service in our yard and must have an updated medium to heavy rigid truck licence. A forklift licence and crane operating experience will be viewed favourably. To be successful in this position you must: • Hold a construction induction white/red card • Have a medium to heavy rigid truck licence • Have an approachable and friendly nature • Have strong customer focus • Be team orientated Knowledge of timber and timber products will be an advantage. If you believe you have the qualities we are looking for, you are invited to apply in writing to: Craig Marinus, Store Manager, Capeview Mitre10, Lot 2 Cusack Road, Leongatha, Vic 3953, or by email leongatha.manager@cv-m10.com.au

POSITION VACANT Location: Michaels Supa IGA Korumburra Position: Deli Department 2IC Salary: Attractive Salary Package on offer Availability: Alternating Rosters (every 2nd Saturday and some public holidays) Successful applicant will have a proven track record of: • Deli & Fresh Seafood Management. • Delivering excellent quality and service standards. • Working well in a team environment. • Leading and developing a team. • Achieving sales, gross proﬁts and wage control targets. • Controlling shrinkage and completing monthly stocktakes. • Maintaining a work schedule and rostering that reﬂects the customer’s needs and at the same time meeting wage budgets. • Maintaining department invoicing and clerical procedures. • Controlling ordering and stock to an acceptable level relevant to department sales. • Maintaining store pricing and ticketing. • Maintaining the appearance and layout of department. • Ensuring all cleaning schedules are maintained. Applications can be sent to the below details: Karl Misale mgrkb@michaelsiga.com.au 03 5654 0555

Strong start: from left, South Gippsland Shire Council customer service officer Dekodah Brewer, trainee corporate information management and GIS officer Sam Stacey, customer service officer Shandal Nelson and senior corporate information management officer Karina Strybosch. Dekodah, Shandal and Karina all completed traineeships at the council before taking up permanent employment with the organisation.

Traineeships success for Shire THE South Gippsland Shire Council offers traineeships at least once a year, to help people train in their chosen field while gaining experience in the work force. People and culture coordinator Marie Downie said council’s trainees receive experience not just in the department they work with, but across the whole council. She said they receive a good understanding of the different occupations they could go into once they complete their traineeship, which is 12 months in duration. “While undertaking a traineeship, the participants also achieve a qualification, usually

a certificate three and occasionally a certificate four,” she said. Ms Downie said employing trainees make sense for council, as it has an ageing workforce. “More than 50 per cent of our workforce is over 55 years of age. Employing trainees creates sustainable, long term pathways into our business,” she said. “It is also a cost effective way for us to pick up on some of our administrative tasks and gives our supervisors great experience in supporting the career development in our young people.” Council’s trainees are either employed through Apprenticeships Group Australia, or employed by council through its normal recruitment process. To be eligible for any train-

Acute Care Nurses (Division 1) wanted ICU/PICU experience preferred but not essential Wanted for home care in Leongatha area who love the outdoors and having fun! Due to nature of program, females are encouraged to apply. Please contact Patrik 0n 0410 942 230 or email patrik@intensivecareathome.com

South Gippsland Coordinator: First Aid in Schools. Applicants must be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. This is a special measure under section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic) We are seeking an enthusiastic coordinator to help establish the Red Cross, South Gippsland First Aid in School’s project. This project will provide First Aid Training and other programs in nominated secondary schools between Yarram and Phillip Island. The project will also provide training and casual work for local Indigenous people and community members. The ofﬁce will likely be based in Leongatha. You will deliver programs in schools, coordinate programs with schools and support Training Support Workers to deliver programs alongside Red Cross Accredited trainers. You’re an experienced community worker, able to coordinate projects and create strong relationships. You may have experience delivering programs to young people and/or can demonstrate a passion for this work. Please contact Kaja Andersen, on 0400 812 941 or Maureen Dawson Smith on 0407 558 510 for further information. Or alternatively visit http://careers.redcross.org.au and search job number: 506979 to access the position description.

eeship, applicants must have not yet achieved the level of qualification. There is no age limit. Ms Downie said after completing a traineeship through council, people often remain employed with council. “We have around seven people employed with us who have previously completed traineeships with us,” she said. “Trainees at council are not just prepared for work within the organisation, but for other employment opportunities, or further study,” While council currently takes on trainees as full time employees, Ms Downie said taking on school based trainees is something it may look to support in the future.

Have an impact. Family Day Care Educators Variable hours Self Employed Contractor

AOD Family Reuniﬁcation Team Leader Full-time - Maximum term position Based at either Sale, Bairnsdale or Leongatha

AOD Family Reuniﬁcation Clinician Full-time - Maximum term position Based at either Sale, Bairnsdale or Leongatha 2 positions available We’re looking for motivated people who have a genuine interest in supporting children, youth and their families as well as building better communities. Learn more human.resources@ucgipps.org or visit ucgipps.org.au Employment is subject to satisfactory criminal history and Victorian Working with Children Checks prior to commencement. Uniting is proud to be an inclusive employer and is committed to keeping children safe.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 35

DAIRY FARM HAND

PAINTING AND DECORATING APPRENTICESHIP

A FULL TIME DAIRY FARM WORKER

A local business is seeking a hardworking and enthusiastic employee to join their team.

is required in the Leongatha area EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL

Phone 0448 409 418

If you are interested in establishing yourself in this trade, please contact Dexter on 0438 539 679 Applicants must have a driver’s licence and vehicle

public notice BUS TRIPS BARHAM COUNTRY MUSIC February 22 (5 days) - $559 COROWA COUNTRY MUSIC June 14 (5 days) - $559 Val Murphy 0428 862 773

THE SOUTH GIPPSLAND CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU

Driver: Bulk Fuel Tanker HC/MC Evans Petroleum Gippsland is a growing, family owned and operated fuel distributor for BP Australia. Employing over 100 staff, we have serviced both retail and wholesale customers in the South Gippsland area for the past 40 years. Our Leongatha Depot requires a Night Shift Tanker Driver to work within our team. Successful applicants should have: • HC/MC Truck Licence • Dangerous Goods Licence • Truck Driving experience, with the ability to drive a road ranger gearbox • An Excellent Driving Record (VicRoads Driver History Report required) • A knowledge of the Gippsland area • A willingness to work in an environment where compliance with legislation, policy and procedures is the highest priority This roll involves: • Night Shift deliveries • Delivering Bulk Fuel to Retail and Commercial • Keeping Truck and Equipment clean and tidy Applications close on 19/01/2018 and can be sent to sales@evanspetroleum.com.au or by mail to PO Box 588, Leongatha, VIC, 3953

Is turning 40 years old this year and they are planning a Celebration in May If you were a volunteer of the CAB anytime over the past 40 years they would like to hear from you so that an invitation can be sent to you to attend a special luncheon at the Dakers Centre, Leongatha. Please contact the CAB ofﬁce on 5662 2111 or ring Jill Widmer on 5674 3910 or call at the ofﬁce in the Memorial Hall Complex, Leongatha.

Email your adverts to The Star ads@thestar.com.au

Internal Sales - Wonthaggi & Leongatha • Wonthaggi & Leongatha location • Salary commensurate with experience • Public transport nearby and parking onsite available BJB is a locally owned and operated company within the Inenco Group. We provide high quality hardware including bearings, power transmission, fluid power fittings, seals, power tools and consumables to engineering, mining, transport, defence, manufacturers, civil infrastructure, and the trades, serviced by our 85 plus strategically located branches around Australia. As an Internal Sales you will be reporting to the Branch Manager and working in a team at either Wonthaggi or Leongatha. Duties and responsibilities: • Front counter customer service • Answering customer queries via phone and face to face • Processing of orders • Warehouse 30% of your role. Pick and Pack orders • Local deliveries • Rotating Saturday morning roster To be successful in this role you need: • Experience within industrial products and engineering consumables is highly desirable but not essential • Mechanical experience and understanding is highly desirable • Experience in customer service in a retail environment • Good communication and written skills • Team player with a can-do attitude • Current driver’s licence Inenco company benefits: • Career development - We encourage our staff members to reach their full potential by undertaking approved part-time study when relevant to their current or potential position and we will reimburse all course fees and text books upon successfully completing each stage of approved courses! • Corporate Super benefits - access to corporate Private Health cover • Vehicle Purchase - Inenco staff have a Corporate price advantage with major car brands • A well remunerated position that will be both rewarding and fulfilling, as well as, working as part of an enjoyable work environment. You must be either an Australian Citizen or a holder of an Australian Permanent Residency Visa to be eligible to apply for this position. Please forward resumé and covering letter to HR manager Julie.wells@inenco.com.au

public notice

Meeniyan Healing Rooms

for sale

MOWERS

HEALING ROOMS ARE OPEN Free for anyone who would like to have Jesus heal them OPEN AT THE MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP ROOMS

Every Tuesday from January 23 2.30pm - 4pm For information contact Harold Ball 0491 139 044

Form B SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

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.

Pursuant to Section 52(1) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 The land affected by the application is located at: 945 Koonwarra-Inverloch Road, Leongatha South VIC 3953, 85 Merricks Track, Leongatha South VIC 3953 being L2 LP220696V Parish of Drumdlemara, L2 LP113627 Parish of Drumdlemara. The application is for a permit to: Use land for a motor racing track (events). The applicant for the permit is: D. Van Den Borne. The Application Reference Number is: 2017/280. 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 the application before 16 January 2018 or 14 days from the date of this notice. Submissions can be received after this date up until a decision is made. Dated: 16.1.2018

garage sales

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

Total package valued at $41 ADVERTISE by calling 5662 5555 or emailing classiﬁeds@thestar.com.au or call in to 36 McCartin Street LEONGATHA to pick up your kit when you place your advertisement

Garage Sale DECEASED ESTATE Shed tools, truck parts, diesel ride-on, TV, outdoor setting, and more

49-55 Brown Street Leongatha Saturday, January 20 8am - 3pm Sunday, January 21 8am - 10am No early birds

MOTORCYCLES & POWER EQUIPMENT

Cnr Allison & South Gippsland Hwy, Leongatha. L.M.C.T. 2714

Ph: 5662 2028

www.marriottsmpe.com.au

COLEMAN 5 position padded chair X 2, 130kg capacity, model 1282795, $80. Ph: 0417-622167. FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408980-711, A/H 56625175. RIDE-ON MOWER Toro Timecutter Z420, $850. Ph: 5664-2430. SILAGE $71.50 (inc GST) - 5x4 round; standing oats and vetch, 20 acres, $33 (inc GST) - 5x4 round. Mirboo North. Ph: 0429684262. 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.

livestock BULLS for hire or for sale. Friesian, Angus, Hereford, Limo or Jersey. All sound young bulls. Hire or sale. Phone 0447-331762. OLD PORT POULTRY FARM Delivering 18 wk old Isa Brown laying hens to your area on Sunday, January 21, $21 each. Ph: 0438832535.

used vehicles FORD Falcon, 1999 XR6 ute. Lockable hardtop, excellent condition, $7,000 ONO (PLM240). Ph: 0411-119871.

wanted to buy ANY OLD farm four wheelers, good or bad, 4WDs or trucks. Will pay cash. Phone Matt 0401194601.

for rent

marriage celebrant

BAY OF FIRES beach house, Binalong Bay, Tasmania, sleeps 8, minimum 3 nights. Available February onwards. Ph: 0408938645.

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

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

Weddings ~ Funerals ~ Namings

PAM HERRALD 5662 2553 0438 097 181

Wendy Rutjens 0429 688 123

e: rutjenswendy@gmail.com

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

bereavement thanks

deaths

WILSON - Kate. Geoff, Leanne and family would sincerely like to thank everyone for the flowers, cards, phone calls, texts and visits. Your support to us all has been amazing and greatly appreciated. A special thank you to Korumburra Mental Health, Leongatha Police and the staff at Terry White Chemist who have been there with us for many years. And a big hug to Carmen for everything she did in helping us get through this. Thank you to everyone.

My dearest Mum, So many beautiful memories to hold. We’ll miss your birthday sponges and Christmas hams along with so many other treasured things. Reunited with Dad again. Much love Geoffrey and Ann-Maree.

As kids, we lived together, we fought, we laughed, we cried, And we always tried to share the love, that we all had inside. We shared our dreams and plans, and some secrets too, All the memories we share, is what bonds us now to you. We grew to find we have a love, that is very strong today, It’s a love shared by our family, that will never fade away. You are our brother not by choice, but by the nature of our births. We could not have chosen a better one, you were the most precious on this earth. LAWSON - Allan. Loved nephew of Norm and Marj Kuhne, Harold and Evelyn Ball, Dave and Edith Lawson, Jock and Dorothy Lawson (all dec). Fondly remembered cousin of Doug, Keith, Butch, Anne, Graham (dec), Heather (dec), Andy, Fiona, Gordon, Helen, Neil and their families. Happy childhood memories. Love to Gina and all of Allan’s family. McKEAN (nee Coote) Doreen Mary. 22.04.1922 - 10.01.2018 Aged 95 years. Loved wife of Gordon (dec). Loved 4th daughter of Jack and Florrie Coote. Loving sister and sisterin-law of Anne and Joe Duggan (both dec), Mabel and Joe Hogan (both dec), Lorna and Ron Morris (both dec), Jack Coote (dec), George (dec) and Zel Fawcett. Always remembered. McKEAN (nee Coote) Doreen Mary. 22.04.1922 - 10.01.2018 Aged 95 years. Passed away peacefully at Heritage Gardens, Bayswater. Daughter of Florrie and Jack (both dec). Sister of Annie, Mabel, Lorna, Jack (all dec) and Zelma Fawcett. Beloved wife of Gordon (dec). Loved and loving mother and mother-in-law of Lyn and Lynton, Jacki and Pat (dec), Ian and Carolyn, Leonie and Craig. Adored Nanna of Karen and Lee, Tracy and Craig, Matthew and Jules, Sherelle and Shane, Kimberley (dec), Justine and Jon, Scott and Allie, Luke, Christy and Liam. Great Nanna of Dylan, Indi, Kiara, Darcy, Ryan, Adam, Zach, Blair, Tylar, Jayden and Kyah. A life well lived. O’NEILL - Vincent Stephen (Vince). 27.12.1951 - 1.1.2018 aged 66 years. My Best Mate and always will be. Love to Jan, Kellie, Tamie and family. From Paddy, Petra, Louise and Kristy, and their families. Also from all the Eldred families of Fish Creek.

Love Geoff and Leanne Wilson.

in memoriam GRAY - Leonie. 12.10.1947 - 16.01.2016 Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear. Robert, Debbie and Peter, Wendy and Terry, Barb and Rob, Rhonda, Warren, Sophie, Tayla and Chelsea. OTTOSEN - Beverly Joyce. 17.1.2006 The guidance you showed us growing up has helped me guide my family through good and bad times. We know you’re there when we need you, our Mother and Nanna, such a special lady so sadly missed. Love always Graeme, Josie, Kelly and Marc.

deaths

Grandma Hulls (Norma). Thank you for all your lovely memories. We are going to miss you so much. Lots of love, your grandson Benni and great grandchildren Olli and Emily Hulls. Grandma Hulls, Such a beautiful soul. I will miss your dumplings and speeding in the car. Love Anthony, Ashlee and Ruby. Our beloved Grandma, We’ll miss you so much, and remember everything you did for us. Love from Simon. I don’t want to believe that you’re gone Grandma! I will never forget our theatre dates and afternoon chats. I am so lucky to have known such an incredible woman! I will miss you so dearly, love Chelsea. xxx HULLS - Norma. Much loved sister-inlaw of Dorothy and Roy (dec). Fond auntie of Neil and Winsome, Janice, Beryl and Brian, Alan and Pennie, and their families. May you rest peacefully reunited with Jack. Forever in our hearts.

ANTHONY - Marjorie Elizabeth (Betty). 1930 - 2018 Passed away peacefully at Carinya Lodge, Korumburra. Much loved mum of Chris and Wayne, Lyn and Greg. Beloved nana to Stephanie and Shannon. Great nan to Sophie and Olivia. Sadly missed.

HULLS (McDermott) - Norma Jean, at Leongatha. 15.6.1930 - 8.1.2018 Loved sister and sisterin-law of Marjorie and Bruce (dec) Sinclair and Piet Bongers. Loved aunty of Patsy, Gary, Steven and Heather, and their families. Many special memories of days gone by.

A funeral service was held on Monday, January 15. HULLS - Norma Jean. Much loved mum and grandma of Trevor, Christine, Michael, Sarah, Indie, Riley, Sally, Mick, Milli and Jackson. There will always be a special place in our hearts.

HULLS - Norma. 15.6.1930 - 8.1.2018 Loved sister-in-law of Mavis and Les Matthies (both dec). Loving auntie of Glenice and Don Griggs, Val and Ian Wilson, Colin and Tracey Matthies and Neville (dec), and their families. Rest peacefully Auntie.

“My Mum” 87 years young. 15.06.1930 - 08.01.2017 Love Jennifer. Goodbye is always hard, but we know that you are happy now to be with Poppa. Love you always Grandma. Love Wade, Jaci, Danielle, Chris and Lee. xx Grandma you are now at peace and back with your soul mate Poppa. You will always be loved and never be forgotten. My “Demama”. Love Damien, Alicia, Oliver and Isabella.

LAWSON Allan Winston. Aged 58. Passed away January 12, 2018. Result of accident. Tragically taken from us way too soon. Dearly loved son of Allan and Shirley Lawson (late of Koorooman). Much loved brother and brother-in-law of Peter (dec) and Linda, Margarett and Geoff (dec), Jeanette and Frank (dec), Robyn (dec) and Garry, Wendy and Ingrid, Heather. Loving partner of Gina for 25 years.

Music attracts crowd to Lyon Street THE rain could not spoil a day of live entertainment at Leongatha’s Live On Lyon on Saturday. The event has faced struggles, having been forced to cancel its original date at the start of December due to heavy rainfall. However, the support of the community won out and the event was successful. “Despite the weather, there were still plenty of people out having fun and enjoying music,” organiser Jodie Clarkson said.

funerals McKEAN (nee Coote) - The funeral service to celebrate the life of Doreen Mary McKean will be held at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 40 Warrandyte Road, Ringwood on Friday, January 19, 2018 at 2pm. A private cremation will follow. Heritage and Heritage Ph: 9800-3000

Eight musicians filled Lyon Street with their incredible music. When the rain became too heavy, major sponsor Bairs Otago Hotel allowed the event to be moved inside. For children, there was face painting, glitter tattoos, jumping castles and show bags. The Leongatha Lions Club were on deck supplying a sausage sizzle. Ms Clarkson said the event was all about at- Performers: Live on Lyon talent scout Sophie Clarkson (centre) tracting people to Leon- was pictured with musicians Shinaye Jenkins, Ash Flanigan and Ben gatha’s central business Geitz (Benzo One Man Band). district, and hoped it would become an annual event for the town. She thanked the many local businesses who sponsored the day, as well as the volunteers. Year 9 students from Leongatha Secondary College offered their time to help out with the glitter tattoos. She also thanked her daughter Sophie Clarkson, who was the talent scout for the musicians and found a few new performers to introduce to Leongatha.

Bright and colourful: from left, Charlie Bickel, Shelby Grayden, Indy Grayden, Madelyn Clark, Mia Bickel and Cooper Clark (back) brightened up the day at Live on Lyon with their face paint. They hail from Leongatha and Mill Park.

Great help: from left, Leongatha Lions Club members John Bennett, Keryn Kay, Maggie Wallis, David Thompson and Steve Burge supported Live on Lyon with a sausage sizzle.

Scott and Sharon Anderson CARING & PERSONAL 24 HOUR SERVICE Pre-paid & pre-arranged funeral plans available

Goodies: from left, Leongatha’s Judd Holt, Laila Holt, Matilda Williams and Amber Newton with some of the showbags on offer at Live on Lyon on Saturday.

Lawnmower blamed for fire WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH 5672 1074 176-178 Graham Street, Wonthaggi 3995 PHILLIP ISLAND 5952 5171 15 Warley Avenue, Cowes 3922 (by appointment only)

www.handleyandandersonfunerals.com.au Serving South Gippsland and Phillip Island

A GRASS fire burned two acres of land behind the Leongatha Golf Club on Thursday afternoon. CFA units believe the fire ignited after a ride on lawnmower overheated. Trucks from Leongatha South, Leongatha, Koonwarra and Pound

Creek fire brigades were called at 1.10pm to control the blaze. The fire was controlled after 15 minutes and blacking out took around one hour. According to Leongatha South CFA captain Hilco Zuidema, the incident was unaffected by the weather and was accidental.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 37

Port plan rejected by residents By Sarah Vella PORT Welshpool residents want their bay left alone and are determined to see the South Gippsland Shire Council’s proposal to build a marina next to the Long Jetty quashed. At a public meeting held in Port Welshpool last Thursday, around 100 people came together to express discontent at the recently released Port Welshpool Marine Precinct draft plan. Part of the plan included a new marina, built next to the Long Jetty. Port Welshpool resident and meeting organiser Rosslyn McPherson said people didn’t live in the town to look at an ugly car park and have their properties devalued. “The first thing a huge percentage of people say when they look at the plan is ‘(the marina) is in the wrong place, it should be up the other end’,” she said. Ms McPherson said the plan was delivered with “no community consultation or consideration for residents”. She said if built, the marina would take away “important and precious sandy beach”, cause environmental damage by dredging, traffic congestion and compromise the business end of the town. South Gippsland Cr Ray Argento attended the meeting and said while there were a lot of issues and concerns raised, there was a lot of good discussion as well. Cr Argento, the only councillor to attend the meeting, said it was great to hear the views of the public, to give council a clearer direction for the future. He said the Port Welshpool Marine Precinct plan was still in its draft stage, initially released to the public in December. “The majority of people who were there didn’t

want to see a marina constructed in the bay area, or something to detract from the Long Jetty,” he said. “Those views were taken on board.” Roger Harvey owns property in Port Welshpool and attended the meeting. He said the mood was generally one of opposition to the marina location. “The issue of whether there should be a marina at all was less clear, as many felt it should be at the western end, and indeed a draft sketch plan along those lines was submitted,” he said. “Many recognised there needed to be economic drivers to keep the town moving forward, others just didn’t want anything.” Cr Argento said Port Welshpool’s needs were evolving and the location of Gippsland Ports within the existing precinct needed to be looked at. He said a more suitable location for Gippsland Ports and the commercial operators that currently use Port Welshpool could be found, such as Barry Beach. “As for the Corner Inlet fishermen, they felt we should maintain the boat ramp where it is and the commercial fishermen operating out of Port Welshpool were happy with that as well,” he said. “If Gippsland Ports and the commercial side could be relocated, it would open up the whole foreshore area and allow for a marina to be developed at a lower cost within the existing precinct.” The existing precinct has fuel and other services available and Cr Argento said if it was to be redeveloped, would require less dredging. “None of the proposals to date have involved the relocation of Gippsland Ports because council has no authority to move them on,” he said. “Given the majority of their operations now occur out of Lakes Entrance and Paynesville, it may be more suitable for them to relocate.” Gippsland Ports CEO Nick Murray said

Don’t do it: around 100 people were at a public meeting in Port Welshpool last Thursday, to voice opposition to the location of a marina development outlined in the South Gippsland Shire Council’s Port Welshpool Marine Precinct draft plan, released in December. Gippsland Ports had no plan to relocate its South Gippsland operations from Port Welshpool. “The concept of relocating from the existing Crown Land site managed by Gippsland Ports to private freehold is simply not on the radar,” he said. Mr Murray said maritime operations and port services have existed at Port Welshpool for a very long time. “The current Gippsland Ports depot and South Gippsland operational headquarters constitute a

significant investment, having been established to allow a move from the former site on the corner of Lewis Street and Albert Road in 2008,” he said. Mr Murray said Gippsland Ports has been actively involved with the council in the development of its marine precinct planning and was supportive of the plan. Submissions to the Port Welshpool Marine Precinct draft plan need to be made to the council before January 22.

Spider Lee spins a new story MOST people pick up a book from the shelf of their local bookshop and wonder about the story inside.

Quick look: Cr Geoff Ellis and mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield got a sneak peek at the new Bass Valley Children’s Centre prior to next week’s open day.

Open day at new children’s centre BASS Coast Shire Council is excited to announce an open day at the Bass Valley Children’s Centre on Tuesday, January 23. Families are encouraged to come along and meet the staff, and see the beautiful new facility. Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said the centre will provide excellent opportunities for families who live in and around the Waterline area, and is the result of much hard work from the community. “The Bass Valley community has worked long and hard to this day,” she said. “Not only have they made a significant financial contribution to the project, but they have played a huge role in making sure the needs of families in this community have been met. “They have helped drive this project from the very start. “Having had an early peek at the centre, I am confident that the facilities here will impress the most discerning parent. It is just wonderful.” The centre will offer early learning programs such as four year old kindergarten, long day care, casual and vacation care. Programs will be tailored to the age and stages of

children, meeting the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework. Additional visiting and specialist services such as Maternal Child Health and parenting programs will also operate from the Bass Valley Children’s Centre. Centre operator, Bestchance Child Family Care, will host the open day and are looking forward to meeting families. Bestchance is a not for profit organisation that has been providing education and support to children and families for over 100 years. Families can come along to the open day and enrol their child, or simply have a look around and enjoy the sausage sizzle with Bestchance educators and staff. Community members who would like to look through the centre are also welcomed. To enrol your child for childcare and/or kindergarten places for 2018 and onwards, contact Clair at Bestchance on 8562 5100 or via email at bassvalleycc@bestchance.org.au. The centre is located adjacent to the Bass Valley Primary School at 60 Corinella Road, Corinella. The open day will be from 10am to 2pm, on Tuesday, January 23.

But for every book written, there is a story behind the story; of whimsical ideas slowly taking shape and years of commitment in bringing characters to life. The initial inspiration for Living Next to Dr Death came when Nyora children’s author, Spider Lee, was on a bike riding holiday in the township of Bruthen. “It was such a great setting for a children’s novel. We walked down to the river and there was a fruit bat hanging from the powerlines. It sent me reeling back to my own childhood and the ideas came thick and fast after that,” she said. Spider is one of 12 children who grew up on a farm in northern Victoria. With seven brothers, four sisters and a free reign over the countryside, adventure was around every corner. But as an adult, Spider draws on those childhood experiences to weave adventurous stories for children to enjoy. The opportunity to launch her new novel, Living Next to Dr Death at Geekfest at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum, Korumburra, on Sunday, January 21, 2018, is a social celebration marking the end of many hours of isolation for Spider. “Being a writer means long hours of solitude with only your own characters as company. Writers need to know their characters inside out; what they will do and say needs to be natural and authentic as children can be harsh critics when it comes to literature,” Spider said. But the long hours of solitude are offset by Spider’s other passion in life: working with children. A dedicated teacher for 20 years, Spider now works full time in children’s welfare at Korumburra Primary School (where she goes by her actual name of Kelly Hunter) and relishes the laughter and playfulness that surrounds her. “Working with children helps you stay in touch with your inner child. I am continually absorbing their language, their values and perspectives and applying these in my writing to develop engaging, relatable characters,” she said. Living Next to Dr Death is a fast paced middle grade fiction novel about the complexities of friendship and is the perfect book for upper primary readers who like action, adventure and just a touch of creepiness. Spider has worked on the novel for three years

Exciting read: children’s author Spider Lee prepares to launch her new children’s novel at Geekfest 2018 at Coal Creek, Korumburra, on Sunday, January 21. and part of the writing journey was working with established author, Kirsty Murray, through the Faber Writing Academy at Allen and Unwin. “The writing course was pivotal in bringing together all my ideas and advancing my editing skills to produce a highly polished story,” she said. Living Next to Dr Death will be officially launched as part of the entertainment at Geekfest 2018. Spider Lee will be appearing in the Slab Cottage from 10am till 4.30 pm with regular readings, book signings, fun activities and goodies for the kids. Geekfest 2018 promises to be a day of fun for all the family with role playing, desktop games, competitions, Escape Room, stallholders and lots more. Dress up as your favourite character and join in this popular holiday event. Contact Coal Creek Community Park and Museum on 5655 1811 for more details.

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

SPORT | BOWLS

thestar.com.au

Inverloch INVERLOCH enjoyed a mixed mufti social game on Thursday which attracted 33 bowlers.

Teams of three and four were formed to play two 10 end games. Two teams won both games. Winners, with 32 points, were Bob Davis (S), Jill Bateman, Bob Delahoy and John French. Runners up, with 29 points, were Mick Yates (S), Steve Snelling and visitor Ralph Moulder. Next Wednesday, January 17, the men’s Monthly Triples event will be held. The mixed-mufti social game will be played on Thursday, with sign-on before 11.30am for a game starting at 12.30pm. The Thursday Monthly Triples scheduled for February 8 has been cancelled. Advice on the March Triples will be made closer to the date. The club’s championship games are coming down to the business end. The Men’s Pairs were contested between Dave Roberts and Mick Bowman against Mick Coram and Frank Seaton. Mick and Frank won on a play off end by one shot in a fantastic game. A practice session for the selection of players for the South Gippsland Bowls Division vs. West Gippsland Bowls Division Regional Round Robin

Teamwork: Mick Coram and Dave Roberts lead for their respective teams with Mick Bowman and Frank Seaton taking the skip role. Congratulations to Mick and Frank who won on an extra end. will be held at Inverloch on Monday, February 5, at 4:30pm followed by a sausage sizzle. A 12 player South Gippsland Bowls Division team will be selected to play against the 12 player team from West Gippsland Bowls Division on Sunday, February 11, in the West Gippsland Bowls Division. From this match, a team to represent Strzelecki Region will be selected. Please see the form on the club notice board. Names are to be forwarded to Ian Diss or John Newcombe by February 2. The Ladies Sides Championship will be held at Murray Downs on April 6-8. Trial for selection will be held at Tarwin Lower on Thursday, February 8, starting at 9.30am. Selected players should be available to play in a round robin in West Gippsland on February 15

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

JANUARY Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

17 WED

18 THUR

19 FRI

20 SAT

21 SUN

22 MON

23 TUE

0123 0649 1246 1904

1.43 0.79 1.24 0.34

0206 0742 1336 1949

1.48 0.72 1.27 0.31

0244 0825 1422 2030

1.53 0.66 1.31 0.30

0318 0905 1505 2107

1.57 0.59 1.35 0.30

0352 0942 1545 2141

1.59 0.54 1.38 0.31

0426 1017 1626 2214

1.60 0.49 1.40 0.34

0459 1051 1705 2247

1.59 0.44 1.40 0.38

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

at a venue to be advised. If interested, please email your name to Helen Twite hmtwite@gmail. com by January 30. The Pennant Bowls season has restarted with Midweek Pennant to be played on Tuesday, January 16, and Saturday Pennant already underway. Four home and away rounds are still to be played before the finals commence on February 17. Saturday Pennant results, round 10: Division 1: Inverloch Blue 92 defeated Korumburra 57; Inverloch White 56 lost to Fish Creek 76. Division 3: Inverloch 15 defeated Port Welshpool 0 (walk-over). Division 4: Inverloch 97 defeated Tarwin Lower 56. Division 5: Inverloch Blue 69 defeated Foster 55; Inverloch White 59 lost to Meeniyan 74. Ladder positions after round 10: Division 1: Inverloch Blue second; Inverloch White eighth. Division 3: Inverloch first. Division 4: Inverloch second Division 5: Inverloch Blue sixth; Inverloch White seventh of 12. Friday night meals return for the year with beef on the menu. Names are to be on the board no later than Thursday morning.

South Gippsland Pennant Bowls DIVISION 1: Inverloch Blue 16-92 defeated Korumburra 0-57; Phillip Island White 1474 defeated Wonthaggi 2-66; Fish Creek 16-76 defeated Inverloch White 0-56; Leongatha 8-0 drew Phillip Island Blue 8-0 (washout). Ladder Phillip Island Blue ... 131 Inverloch Blue ......... 110 Leongatha .................. 96 Phillip Island White .. 80 Korumburra ................. 78 Fish Creek ................... 66 Wonthaggi ................... 53 Inverloch White........... 26

+233 +128 +54 -27 -14 -91 -76 -207

Division 2: Lang Lang 16-82 defeated Tarwin Lower 0-60; Toora 12-72 defeated Mirboo North 4-71; Wonthaggi 1683 defeated San Remo 0-42; Corinella 16-100 defeated Phillip Island 0-41. Ladder Corinella............... 134 Toora ...................... 86 Mirboo North ........ 84 Phillip Island.......... 76 San Remo ................ 75 Wonthagg ................ 73

+262 -58 -24 -47 -45 +49

Runners up: pictured with sponsor Peter Brown, Drouin’s team of Jan Aubrey, Maureen Leighton and Denise Hamilton came in second in the Hartley Wells Ladies Triples Day at Leongatha Bowls Club on January 8.

Leongatha BACK in business after the break and first up congratulations to John Hall who is the South Gippsland Bowls Division champion of champions. John played Frank Seaton from Inverloch. Well done John. While on the subject, congratulations also to Graeme and Phillip Benson who are Leongatha’s pairs champions. Again well done. Also Graeme and Phil are into the quarter final of the Korumburra Bowls Club’s champion of champions. January 8 saw the club’s ladies triples tournament in action and the winner was the San Remo team of Dianne Coleman (s), Jill Waters and Sandra Read with three wins plus 22. Runner-up was the Drouin team of Maureen Leighton (s), Denise Hamilton and Jan Aubray. Sponsor for the day was Lang Lang ............... 64 Tarwin Lower .......... 48

-81 -56

Division 3: San Remo 16-77 defeated Leongatha 0-57; Meeniyan 2-70 lost to Loch and District 14-76; Port Welshpool 0-0 lost to Inverloch 16-15 (forfeit); Korumburra 8-0 drew Foster 8-0. Ladder Inverloch .............. 119 San Remo ............... 94 Foster...................... 87 Korumburra .......... 87 Leongatha .............. 83 Meeniyan................ 74 Loch and District... 64 Port Welshpool ...... 32

+145 +40 +25 -27 -14 +0 -16 -153

Division 4: Inverloch 14-97 defeated Tarwin Lower 2-56; Phillip Island 2-52 lost to Wonthaggi Gold 14-72; Wonthaggi Blue 1698 defeated San Remo 0-53; Leongatha 8-0 drew Korumburra 8-0 (washout). Ladder Wonthaggi Gold .. 130 Inverloch .............. 113 Phillip Island........ 104 Wonthaggi Blue ..... 93 San Remo ................ 68 Korumburra ............. 52 Leongatha................ 46 Tarwin Lower .......... 34

+210 +165 +69 +156 -66 -161 -146 -227

Division 5: Fish Creek 15-69 defeated Phillip Island 1-56; Toora 14-83 defeated Loch and District 2-70; Inverloch White 1-69 lost to Meeniyan 15-74; Corinella 14-73 defeated Mirboo North White 2-58; Foster 4-55 lost to Inverloch Blue 12-69; Mirboo North Purple 8-0 drew Lang Lang 8-0 (washout). Ladder Meeniyan1.............. 31 Corinella1............... 24 Fish Creek ............ 102 Mirboo North W.... 98 Foster....................... 92 Inverloch Blue......... 87

+165 +227 +116 +159 +105 +16

Hartley Wells Betta Electrics, and the club thanks them for their valued support. Saturday, January 13 saw round 10 of the Saturday pennant. Division 1 was home to Phillip Island Blue as was Division 4 which was home to Korumburra, however due to the weather both games were washed out. Division 4 travelled to San Remo but went down to San Remo 57 to 77 shots: J. Turner’s team lost 19 to 31 shots, J. Pendergast’s team lost 20 to 25 shots and G. Drury’s team lost 18 to 21 shots. Round 11, Saturday 20 sees Division 1 at home to Korumburra, Division 3 away to Korumburra and Division 4 at home to Tarwin Lower. Tuesday, January 16 midweek pennant resumes and sees the Division 1 ladies at home to Foster and Division 3 home to Phillip Island. January 30 will see the Inverloch White....... 80 Phillip Island ........... 77 Loch and District..... 63 Toora ....................... 44 Lang Lang ............... 34 Mirboo North P ....... 28

-53 -35 -60 -174 -213 -253

Round 11 (Division 1) Kiss of Death tips: Division 1: Wonthaggi (home) will get back on track with an easy win over Inverloch White who is clearly in the relegation zone winning by 35 shots. Phillip Island Blue (home) will inflict a huge loss over their second side Phillip Island White with a hard fought 16 shot win. In a must win game for both sides Leongatha (home) will put paid to Korumburra’s hopes of a place in the finals with a comfortable 22 shot win. Inverloch Blue (home) will also inflict a huge loss on Division 1 minnows Fish Creek with a resounding 32 shot win. With only four rounds before the finals, clubs should be finalising their players to ensure prospective players have enough games to be eligible to play in their respective finals. Good bowling to everyone.

Tarwin Lower MEMBERS of the Tarwin Lower Bowls Club have been busy hosting the annual Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s bare foot bowls event and assisting with catering for the Unify

Social bowls: the winners were Lloyd Hemphill, John Turner, Jo Ruciman and Ollie Crouch at Leongatha Bowls Club last week.

Winners: the San Remo team of Jill Waters, Sandra Read and Diane Coleman (skip) won the Hartley Wells Ladies Triples Day at Leongatha Bowls Club on January 8. They are pictured with sponsor Peter Brown. start of this year’s Tuesday twilight barefoot bowls. Leongatha Bowls Club invites your business to enter a team of three, and if you require further information please contact G. Drury 0457 916 454, Bill Harry 0408 832 243 or Harry Forrester 0428 642 274. Entry forms are to be posted to Leongatha Bowls Club, PO Box 232, Leongatha 3953. The results of the Nich-

workers.

On Thursday, January 4, about 70 men associated with the lifesaving club got together to enjoy a night of fun, laughter, good food and of course, bowls. Thanks for once again choosing the bowls club for your yearly get together – the members enjoyed the night nearly as much as you did. Unify was a huge event last weekend and members of the bowls club organised lunch and dinner on Thursday for over 100 of the set up crew. The efforts were greatly appreciated by the hungry workers who proved to be a lovely group of very polite people. Wednesday Triples was won this week by the combined team of Alan Easterbrook from Leongatha and Franky and Stan from Wonthaggi. The Tarwin Lower team of Paul Griffiths, Peter Tainton and Ned Clark were runners up. Both Saturday pennant teams played away this week. Division 4 lost to Inverloch while Division 2 went down to Lang Lang. Tuesday pennant starts again this week with Division 2 playing at Korumburra and Division 4 at Phillip Island. Good bowling all.

olson Pairs on Sunday, January 14 will be in the next report. The club’s first of this year’s Kitty Club teas was held on Friday night, January 5 with 80 plus members and friends in attendance and a good night was had by all. The next Kitty Club tea will be on Friday night, February 2. Until the next report, good bowling - ‘Jackhigh’.

Fish Creek IN the blink of an eyelid, Christmas and New Year have come and gone.

With festivities all done, it is time to get serious about bowls again. The 2017/18 Club Championships are drawing to a close, with a great big thank you to the organisers for the efficient way this has been run. Results to date are: Ladies Singles Champion: Nicole McKenzie. Men’s Singles Champion: Tim McLean Men’s Pairs Champions: Rob McKenzie and Colin Bell. Still to be completed are the 21up, 100 up, Mixed Pairs and Ladies pairs games. Nicole and Tim were sadly both eliminated from the Champion of Champion singles in spite of putting up a very good show. The first weekend back was a successful one for both divisions at Fish Creek, with Division 1 having a win over Inverloch White and Division 5 beating Phillip Island in a very exciting game. Teams selected to play next Saturday are: Continued on page 39.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 39

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thestar.com.au Fish Creek Continued from page 38. Division 1 playing Inverloch Blue at Inverloch; bus leaves promptly at 11.15 am. T. McLean (S), B. Cooper, R. Grylls (M), A. Kerr; D. Christie (S), N. McKenzie, R. McKenzie, B O’Keefe; R. Mortlock (S), R. Knight, Milton Heywood, C. McGannon. Division 5 plays Meeniyan at Meeniyan. Players assemble at 11.30am at the club. R. Poletti (S), A. Atwell, P. Poletti, J. Laurence; K. Flanders (S), D. Stefani, C. Bell, G. Hoskin; R. Barham (S) (M), Mal Heywood, P. Dean, A. Masson; Emergency: Mark Angwin.

Items to note:

The 2018 Barefoot Bowls will begin on Tuesday, January 30, and Wednesday, January 31, at 5:50 pm for a 6pm start and will continue for the usual six weeks. All interested parties

South Gippsland Bowls Division Champion Pairs (Ladies) THE South Gippsland event was played over two days on January 9 and 11 at Inverloch. Eleven of the eligible clubs were represented with some good matches played on the first day. A shower or two kept the ladies on their toes with pairs from San Remo, Corinella, Fish Creek and Phillip Island progressing to the second day’s semi finals. Corinella’s Jacquie Carter and Margaret McConville put up a good fight against San Remo’s Jacqui Cohen

should contact Andy Kerr (5683 2380) or a committee member of the Fish Creek Bowls Club to register. Fish Creek Triples will take place on Thursday, January 25. The ladies’ tournament will take place on January 19 and any clubs not yet registered and wishing to take part are requested to contact either Chris McLean (0409 704 413) or Eileen Bell (0432 414 940) as soon as possible. Dutch auction will be held at the monthly casserole evening to be held on Friday, February 2. This proved to be very exciting and successful last year, due to the generous donations/purchases by club members and friends. Donations for this year’s function will be greatly appreciated, and members are encouraged to look around for suitable unwanted goods that can be auctioned off, in the hope of attaining the financial success of last year. and Jill Naylor with the San Remo girls going on to the final. The other semi was also a good match with Phillip Island’s Paddy Francis and Dorothy Wagner getting through over Nics McKenzie and Anne Cowell of Fish Creek. The final was played in increasing temperatures with all four girls doing a great job after putting down so many bowls over the two days. Phillip Island’s Paddy and Dorothy prevailed over their near neighbours Jacqui and Jill of San Remo by one shot (13 - 12). It was a great couple of days for the players and spectators alike. Many thanks go to the two umpires and the Inverloch Club for its hospitality.

Great final: the winners were Phillip Island’s Dorothy Wagner and Paddy Francis, pictured with San Remo runners up Jacqui Cohen and Jill Naylor.

GCL wrap up SALE-Maffra and Bairnsdale have won through to the Senior GCL final, after strong performances throughout the regular season. For Sale-Maffra, it will be looking to maintain its standing as the premier league within the Gippsland region, whilst Bairnsdale will be looking to upstage the favourites at Scorpion Park in the Final on February 11. For the remaining associations, they will be turning their attention to Country Week and can be buoyed by the fact that, for the most part,

the GCL season was played on a level playing field, giving truth to the any-given-Sunday philosophy that anyone can beat anyone on any given day. In the final round of the home and away GCL fixture, both Sale-Maffra and Leongatha played out a competitive match at Inverloch. Batting first after winning the toss, Sale-Maffra posted 182, with Brad Scott’s 88 at the top of the order telling. With the next highest score in the line up being 20, it was clear to see who the key batsman was for the visitors. Charith Keerthsighe proved as much a handful to spell

Allambee Mirboo & District tennis IT was wet for the first matches back from the Christmas / New Year break on Saturday, January 13. In Section 1 and 2 some sets were played, with a result in Section 1 and one of the Section 2 games. Afternoon tea was enjoyed at these venues. Section 3 matches were not started. Next week a good chance to enjoy the tournament so get a partner or enter as a single entry and organisDay out: come along and enjoy the country racing vibe at the Woolamai races on Saturday afternoon. ers will hopefully be able to help. This will be a big day of tennis, 9.30am for a 10am start, so come along enjoy a barbecue and cameraderie. WITH the picnic racing season in full swing, nent to date in the current season as well so the evenness Saturday, January 27 is a Woolamai and District Race Club is set to host across the board is evident amongst those chasing. King bye for Section 3. a day out riding a treble at Woolamai back in Novemits third meeting of the season on Saturday af- had ber, providing a touch of inspiration and the testing circuit Results ternoon. holds no fears for the 21 year old Moe based jockey. Section 1: Koonwarra Following on from a highly successful previous two The overall trainer’s premiership looks as though it 6.61 d Leongatha 3.43, meetings, all aspects point to what should be another action may go down to the wire as all season there has been little Phillip Island 8.5/68 d Le- packed afternoon at the popular Bass Coast racetrack. separating several rivals. ongatha North 5.33; InverWith cool to mild conditions on the radar after what Seymour trainer Barry Goodwin holds a slender lead loch v Korumburra washed appears to be a typical midsummer scorcher headed this and rarely leaves the Woolamai track without one of his out. way, the day is looking appealing once again for a relaxSection 2: Hallston ing day on the expansive lawns or a picnic rug under the charges finding the winners stall. Hot on his heels though is the Kilgower stable from 5.5/44 d Leongatha Green shady elms. Sale and Mornington trainer Kelvin Southey. 3.5.28; Outtrim 7.5.60 d There will be no relaxing on the track however, with on Hallmarks of the Southey horses are their remarkable Korumburra 1.5.38, Leon- track action set to heat up and competitive spirit in plenticonsistency and thus they always appear to be amongst the gatha Gold v Berrys Creek ful supply. considered chances in a race. washed out, Baromi v The battle in the overall jockeys premiership, while Field sizes along with crowd numbers at the picnic Koonwarra washed out. far from over with around three months still to go, may Section 3: Both match- already be decided as Bendigo rider Courtney Pace contin- races continue to elevate on an upward trajectory, with the informal atmosphere and a chance to unwind in picture es washed out. ues on her trail blazing ways, accumulating wins. postcard settings a decisive factor. Ladders Still, Pace hasn’t, as yet, dominated at Woolamai like Mention must also be made too of the strong support Section 1 she has at other courses so far this season so the others from surrounding stables in the general vicinity, such as Inverloch ..............................88.5 again get their chance to open inroads into her lead. those from the Cranbourne and Pakenham areas who supPhillip Island........................85.5 Her 16 wins to date are being pursued by several top port the meeting in ever growing numbers Korumburra ........................84.5 Leongatha North .................52.0 riders who remain within striking distance of her margin It’s also terrific to see local Bass Coast businesses once Koonwarra.............................51.0 and no doubt this will stoke the fires of opposition amongst again well represented in sponsorship for the next couple Leongatha..............................45.0 them. of meetings. Section 2 Another Bendigo rider in Toby Lake, along with the Berrys Creek........................92.5 There will again be plenty to keep the little ones enBaromi ..................................81.0 Cranbourne based Reece Goodwin are others who are at- tertained with a jumping castle, face painting and Pockets Outtrim ................................76.0 tempting to abbreviate Pace’s supremacy, with both jock- the clown on course drawing on his bag of tricks. With the Koonwarra ...........................68.0 eys often having a strong book of rides. holiday season showing little sign of abating on Phillip IsHallston .................................63.5 Dani Walker, last year’s Woolamai Cup winning rider land and at San Remo, a sizeable crowd is again predicted Korumburra ...........................50.0 Leongatha Gold.....................48.0 Grant Seccombe and Caitlin King have all been promi- to witness the afternoon’s racing action unfold.

Woolamai gallops hit full stride

Leongatha Green ...................43.0 Section 3 Nadal ....................................63.0 Federer .................................57.0 Mardan.................................33.0 Baromi ..................................30.0

as he did with ball in hand, finishing with figures of 4/31. He received good support from Jason Wilson, who took 2/32. In reply, Leongatha got off to the worst possible start, losing a wicket before a run had been scored, before three frustrating knocks in the forty’s by the middle order left them 30 runs stranded at the finish. Daniel Mock, David Newman and Matt Houston were all who featured in the forty’s, whilst the skill of Jack Rietschel, who took 5/13 proved difficult to handle. Keenan Hughes also chimed in, taking two scalps with the new rock. In the Warragul/Bairnsdale fixture, the match came down to the wire, with Bairnsdale edging home in the 47th over thanks to some sloppy work in the field by the Wild Dogs. After being sent in on a hastily prepared Hallora turf, Warragul made the conditions look fine, as they posted 201. In a scorecard that featured plenty of starts, Trevor Gardiner topped the list with 40, which included two uncharacteristic bombs. Others to score were Tom Keily (35), Damon Healy (32) and Fraser Duncan (32). With the ball for Bairnsdale the damage was done by the spinners, with Ryan Halford taking five and All-Gippsland XI probable Stephen Grobler claiming three. In response Bairnsdale kept the game interesting, maintaining a strong run rate but at the expense of losing regular wickets. Scott Davidson’s 88 was ultimately the difference, whilst Reagan Kyle’s 31 also played an important part in the chase. For Warragul Tom Keily, Nick Fairbank and the inebriated James Williams each took a pair of wickets in what was a closely fought match that maintained that most annoying of cricket truisms that ‘catches win matches’.

Melbourne Cup winner at Stony Creek MELBOURNE Cup winning jockey Michelle Payne took to the Stony Creek track this week trialling her racehorse trainer and brother Patrick Payne’s horses.

In 2015, Michelle was the first woman to win the Melbourne Cup and only the fifth woman to ride in the race that stops a nation with Stony Creek Racing Club CEO Sarah Wolf saying that it was great to have a Melbourne Cup winning jockey such as Michelle ride the track. “It was terrific to welcome Michelle down to Stony Creek for the time trials along with the other trainers and jockeys from across Victoria,” she said “Around 50 horses travelled from across the state for the trials, which is a great reflection on the facilities and training opportunities Stony Creek can provide for country racing. “The popularity of these trials at Stony Creek was helped with the creation of the 900 metre trial race, the other trial lengths were 1000, 1100 and a 1600 metre trial. “It was great to hear the feedback from trainer Patrick Payne that he thought the track was in perfect condition, even after the full day of racing only the day before, and that he thought the trials at Stony Creek were a good training exercise. “We often hear from trainers and jockeys that one of the things they like about the Stony Creek course is the rise in the course over the back that makes a good challenge for the horses.”

Race guest: Melbourne Cup winning jockey Michelle Payne caught up with committee member Ross Batten at the Stony Creek Racing Club recently.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

SPORT | GOLF Leongatha Golf SATURDAY was Medal Day with Peter Stivic carding a net 68 to win the Medal and the Overall in a Countback and also C Grade. A Grade was won in a countback by Bruce Hutton with a net 70, B Grade was taken out by Anthony Sparkes with net 69 and in D Grade Peter Hartigan led the way with net 68. Balls were won by Col Martin, David Barrack, Peter Harrison, Chris Leaver, Brendon Simon, John Eabry, Jon Smith, Ron Findlay, Andy Bassett, Doug Clemann, Malcolm Legge, Gerry Carcour, Ken Wardle, Ron Campbell, Marcus Luscombe, Derek Jury, Peter Waters, Denis McDonald, Nick Lafferty, Philippe du Plessis and Peter Hart. NTPs were Tyler Marotti on the 14th hole and Gary Merrin on the 16th. The Super Comp on the third hole was won by Malcolm Legge. Tuesday, January 9, saw Col Martin continue his great form, scoring 39 points to win the Overall in a countback. A Grade was taken out by Geoff McDonald also with 39 points and also in a countback. Ken Smirk won B Grade with 35 points also in a countback and Colin Moyle won C Grade with 39 points. Balls were awarded to Tom Sorrell, Doug Clemann, Ted Bruinewoud, Darrell Prior, Geoff Maher, John Payne, Bruce Hutton, Ian Murchie, David Child, Steven Forrester, Adam Henwood, Denis Wallace, Wayne Keen, Fred de Bondt, Frank Thomas, Malcolm Legge, Peter Bates and Frank Gill. NTPs were Doug Clemann on the 14th hole and Jim Arnott on the 16th. Tim Hook received 12 balls for a great eagle two on the eighth hole. On Thursday, January 11, Allan Edney did something that most golfers will never achieve, that is shooting his age off the stick. Allan had an outstanding 43 points off a handicap of 23 to win C Grade and only miss out by one point for the Overall, which was taken out by Jacob Wrigley with 44 points. A Grade was won by Bruce Hutton with 40 points and Richard Com-

erford took B Grade with 38 points. Balls were won by Geoff Maher, Darrell Prior, Craig Bell, Peter Horman, Paul Luck, Nathan Wardle, David Child, Grant McRitchie, Terry Grace, Joe Lowell, Ian Murchie, Chris Leaver, Craig Hams, Greg Ellt, Frank Smedley, Michael Thomas, Frank Gill, Andy Bassett, Col Martin, Jason Dennerley and Malcolm Legge. NTPs were John Simon on the 14th hole and Frank Gill who finished inside a metre on the 16th.

Amazing: Lyndall Caldwell got a hole in one on the par three 14th hole, just one hour after Marianne Leaver achieved her hole in one (not pictured). Leongatha ladies THERE was great excitement on Wednesday as both Marianne Leaver, and an hour later, Lyndall Caldwell had a hole in one on the par three, 14th hole. They both raided the Eagle’s nest and shared Nearest the Pin. Heartiest congratulations to both women. Unfortunately, Marianne played in a very early group and had left before Lyndall came into the Clubhouse, to a standing ovation. Their amazing feat will be honoured when the season properly starts in February. There were 50 entrants in the Mixed Stableford event. Else Gedye had the

Get involved in golf THE WOORAYL Golf Club in Leongatha is keen to encourage more young people to the game with its summer pass, for players under the age of 18. The pass, which costs $20 will give holders the ability to play unlimited golf on the course, seven days a week until the end of daylight savings. Pass holders will not be able to play when the club is hosting an event. Geof Forrester from the club said it was a great opportunity for young people interested in the sport to give it a go. “We have quite a few sets of donated golf clubs available for those who may not have their own set,” he said. “We are hoping the summer pass gives young people the chance to have a swing in the holidays or after school and enjoy a game of golf.” For more information, phone Mr Forrester on 0400 813 586.

thestar.com.au best score of the day to win C Grade with her personal best score of 42 points off her 45 handicap. A Grade winner was Dot Stubbs (17) with 37 points. B Grade was won by Marianne Leaver (27) with 36 c/b. DTL balls went to Mandy Moyle 41, Lynda Bassett 40, Lynne Hart 37, Louise Schache and Marie Sands 36, Michael Oliver and Sue Bowler 34, Jan Brownlie and Colin Bear 33, Darrell Prior and Pam Christensen 32, Jacob Wrigley, Michael Thomas and Coral Gray 31 and Maryanne Gartner, Garry Kerr and Marea Maher all 30 c/b. Nearest the Pin on the 16th is Lynda Bassett, and 14th was Marianne Leaver and Lyndall Caldwell. The nine hole competition winner, Bronwyn Debenham (45), had an excellent 20 points to win the event. DTL ball went to Chris Lay with 18 points. Saturday – January 13 Sixteen women braved constant showers to play a stroke round. It must be Dot Stubbs week. Backing up her victory on Wednesday Dot just edged out another champion medal player Wendy Parker to win with 90 (16) net 74. DTL ball winners were Wendy Parker 75 nett, Mandy Moyle 76, Marea Maher and Helen Fraser 79 and Jan Brownlie nett 80 c/b. Nearest the pin 16th was Marea Maher.

and 17th V. Gow. DTL: B. Warren, T. Prue, J. Mountford, and V. Gow. Nine holes: B. Fuller. Eagle: R. Galloway first. Thursday, January 11: Stableford. Winner: N. Thompson 37 points. NTP: sixth R. Prain and 15th N. Thompson. DTL: F. Tyers and D. Summers. Saturday, January 13: Stroke Medal. Simon Barwick Trophy Medal: N. Cooper. A: N. Cooper B: T. Jones. NTP: fourth T. Jones, sixth D. Summers, 13th T. Jones and 17th G. Prue. DTL: R. Prain 72, T. Vanin 73, G. Cox 73, G. Prue 73, and T. Price 72. Nine holes: R. Prain 21. Scr: T. Vanin 77. Putting: N. Cooper 25. Ladies Stroke: Winner: R. Galloway 69. DTL: B. Warren 77. The club would like to thank this week’s sponsors Anne Heywood and Simon Barwick.

Great result: Sharon Adams, Barb Twite and Chris Rickard were the three Grade winners at Korumburra last week, all finishing with net scores of 66. Barb was announced as the January Monthly Medallist, following a three-way count-back. Korumburra ladies TWENTY-six women enjoyed playing golf in fine weather, last Wednesday.

There was a warm welcome to Johanna Van den Heiligenberg who has now submitted sufficient Saturday, January 13 cards to gain a handicap, so will TWENTY-FIVE pairs be ready to play in the competiplayed a South African tions. modified pairs comThank you to the House of petition with trophies Golf for sponsoring this event supplied by Trevor and the voucher went to Barb Twite as the winner of the JanuHumphrey. A Grade: T. O’Neill ary Monthly Medal after a three(5), P. Hopkins (11) 72; B. way count-back, from Sharon Clasby, P. Johnson 67; P. Adams and Chris Rickard. Hornibrook, J. Solly 66. All three finished with a fanB Grade: R. Hamill tastic net score of 66. (24), A. Twite (33) 69; The A Grade (0-24) winner Foster D. Hislop, I. Cash 67; B. was Chris Rickard 90(24)66, TUESDAY, January 9: Thomson, A. Worthy 65. and runner-up was Lyn McIvor, Nearest the pin: 1st Stableford. 91(21)70. Winner: Clarke Gray S. Sartori, 7th B. Hessels, B Grade (25-33) was won 10th R. Callagher, 13th P. 43 points. by Barb Twite, 91(25)66 and NTP: sixth F. Tyers Hornibrook. Tuesday’s winner Betty Yann was runner-up, with and 13th D. Jenkins. 100(32)68. DTL: D. Hutchinson, was R. Besley 43 pts and Sharon Adams won C Grade Thursday’s winner was N. T. Vanin and N. Cooper. (34-45) with 102(36)66 and LorWednesday, January Ladgrove 41 pts. Notices: Australia Day raine Knox was runner-up, finish10: Stroke Medal. Winners A and Medal: - stableford; All Gippsland ing with 115(45)70. Lee Clements had the best championships March 3-4; R. Galloway 77. Winner B: A. Hey- SG Opening Mixed Cana- Scratch Score, with 85. dian, Meeniyan February NTPs went to Barb Walker on wood 68. the first, Johanna Van den HeiliNTP: sixth M. Barham 23.

Korumburra

genberg on the seventh and Merrissa Cosson on the 13th. BDTL winners were Julie Brannaghan, 70 net and Heather Grist, Barb Walker, Kath Welsh, Betty Thomson and Marg Harper, all with 71 net, so fortunately a count-back wasn’t required between those five players. There is a timesheet in the foyer for those who are able to play in the Par event next Wednesday. Darren Cole will resume lessons for beginners next Wednesday at 10 am at the cost of $10 for the hour long session, as well as the possibility of playing some extra golf afterwards. Beginner’s Day is Wednesday, February 7, so please contact any of the members if you are interested in playing that day. Beginner golfers will be paired up with a member, for a social round of golf. Five girls finished 18 holes on Saturday but the three women who played in the later time-slot, only finished nine holes due to the rain that came through. Sherrin Solly (33) had a fabulous 39 points to win the day’s event and Marg Harper was NTP on the 13th green. The 2018 Club Fixture book-

let and Telephone Tree have been published so members are asked to collect these as they are both a good reference for information. The weather on Thursday evening was ideal for the Twilight golfers and it was great to see some newcomers enjoying this popular event. Well done to Sandra and Laurie Webster who had a wonderful 24 points and to runners up, Trudy and Don Olden, who finished with 22 points after playing the back nine holes. Lynette McIvor and Bill Thomson were the NTP winners on the 13th green. The club is organising a Stableford event on Australia Day, Friday, January 26. The sign-up sheet has disappeared from the foyer, so if you had already written your name down, could you please add it to the new time-sheet in the foyer or in the bar or phone David. The day is sponsored by Betta Home Living in Leongatha and Burra Foods. The cost is just $20 which includes a two course course lunch and some great prizes for the winners and NTPs. For bookings or enquiries, phone David on 0408 515 622.

Wild Action at Stony Creek THE Stony Creek Racing Club is looking forward to a wonderful season of racing this year. It was all action at Stony Creek Racing Club recently with the club hosting over 1500 attendees with a day packed full of racing, Chris Humfrey’s Wild Action Zoo and celebrating the annual Ladies Day. At the second day of racing for the summer, children were entertained by Chris Humfrey’s Wild Action Zoo and Kelly’s Sports, while the ladies were hosted in the Sisterhood Women’s Travel Pink Roses Ladies Marquee with Stony Creek Racing Club CEO Sarah Wolf saying the perfect weather capped off a great day. “As well as all the racing action with all the horses, trainers and bookies, it was great to welcome back to Stony Creek Chris Humfrey and his animal friends including koalas, snakes and a range of feathered friends,” Ms Wolf said. “Kids loved the activities that we planned for them and the weather was perfect for learning about Australia’s wildlife with Chris Humfrey and playing sports and activities with Kelly’s Sports. “At this year’s Ladies Day we also welcomed Sisterhood Womens Travel to the Pink Roses Marquee with around 70 ladies enjoying catering provided by Leongatha local Brent Sinclair showcasing just how good our South Gippsland produce is.” The weather made for perfect race conditions with a full card of eight races for the day with the Pink Roses Maiden Plate being won by three year old Cop This trained by Cranbourne trainer Ken Keys. The Stony Creek Racing Club was proud to again support local businesses and community groups with

Close: jockey Clayton Douglas (left) on Champagne Elle just edged out Brandon Stockdale and horse Paris Flirting in the first race of the day at Stony Creek Racing Club on Monday, January 8. Prom Coast Ice Cream from Toora treating race goers to their award winning ice cream and the Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving Club managing the car parks and member sections as part of their fundraising. “It was great to be able to have local businesses like Prom Coast Ice Cream trackside as well as support the important safety work that Venus Bay SLSC performs, with the surf lifesavers raising valuable funds towards purchasing more emergency equipment,” she said. “The popular Meeniyan CFA lobster raffle was

again drawn and won, with Foster local Graham Walsh taking home the 3.2kg monster lobster.” The next Stony Creek race meet will be on February 14 with the theme Stony Loves Gippsland. Race day tickets can also be pre-purchased online with discounted entry when booking through the website. To purchase race day passes, become a club member and receive a season pass, visit www.scrc.com. au or contact the Stony Creek Racing Club office on 5664 0099.

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Rail trail petition picks up steam By Sarah Vella A PETITION calling on the government and South Gippsland Shire Council to extend the Great Southern Rail Trail from Leongatha to Nyora has more than 2000 signatures.

The author of the petition, John Kennedy from the Bicycle Fitting Store in Korumburra, said he wanted at least 4000 signatures before he presented the petition to the Premier. He expected that to happen in March. The petition has received the most support in Leongatha so far, which Mr Kennedy said was a little surprising. “I am just thinking all of these towns (along the potential and existing trail) are struggling business wise and extending the trail is the quickest and cheapest way to bring a lot of people into the area,” he said. “I would guess there are at least 10 good reasons why the trail should be built.” Mr Kennedy said there is $3 million worth of steel track sitting unused between Korumburra and Nyora, which would “more than cover” the cost of building a new rail trail. “The foundations are already there, all they need to do is put screenings over the

top and install a few hand rails and bridges,” he said. “The $3 million would cover those costs.” While continuing the trail to Nyora is his long term goal, Mr Kennedy said it has “got to be linked to Korumburra and a minimum to Loch” in the short term. “I don’t see why they can’t just get it started. They don’t need a $1 million bridge over the South Gippsland Highway at Leongatha,” he said. Mr Kennedy said he was passionate about getting the trail to Nyora, particularly because some people would love to get out and ride, but are not confident to do so on the road. “It is just sitting there doing nothing, let’s use the thing,” he said. “If the train does come back, great, but let’s use it as a rail trail for the next 20 or 30 years until it does.” The petition can be found at a number of businesses in Korumburra, including the Bicycle Fitting Store, Kelly’s Bakery, the newsagent and at The Middle Pub. It can also be signed at Leongatha Health Foods, The Rusty Windmill, The Koonwarra Store, Allforms of Design in Meeniyan and in Foster. Mr Kennedy said the council had been supportive of the petition.

• GCL U18 Cricket

Leongatha makes finals LEONGATHA Under 18’s travelled to Bellbird Park Drouin to play Warragul and Central Gippsland triangular 20/20 competition with the winner of this group gaining a finals berth.

There were three close games with the team making the finals. Central Gippsland defeated Leongatha on the second last ball of the 20th over in the third game. Game one Leongatha played Warragul. With the run ups at one end damp, all teams bowled from one end all day. Warragul won the toss and batted first, their openers added 32 for the first wicket and after the next wicket had added 18. The score was two for 50 and Leongatha appeared to be in trouble but Jack Hume came on to bowl and with some good fielding they restricted Warragul to be all out 78 off their 20 overs with J. Baston top scoring with 22. Jack Hume finished with five for 13 off four overs plus a run out. Other wicket takers were Josh Hastings, Brett Thorson and Elijah Cousins. Leongatha opened with Ben Perry and Nick Cowling. Perry went with the score on five for three, Jack Hume made one, Alex Geyer made 19 and Cowling added 42 for the third wicket to be three for 54. Cowling remained not out 41 when victory was achieved at six for 84 losing Drew Herbert for four, Josh Hastings for one and Matt Allen for two in the process. Winning the first game against the top side set them up for the third game against Central who defeated Warragul by ten runs in

game two. Leongatha won the toss and batted and were soon in trouble losing Cowling for two, Jack Hume for one and Alex Geyer for eight to be three for 17. Drew Herbert made a quick 11 the score four for 31. Hastings 13 joined Perry and they added 44 for the fifth wicket when Josh was run out, Perry was batting beautifully until he was run out with the score on 95 for 42 with two fours and a six. Hasting made 17 including a four and a six. Matt Allen, Elijah Cousins and Joel Bran failed to score in their push for runs and after 19.2 overs were all out 110 a competitive score but another tens runs would have been handy. Central Gippsland lost a couple of early wickets then a solid third wicket partnership and a couple of ordinary overs put Leongatha under pressure but some good bowling from Hastings two wickets and Brett Thorsen two wickets Leongatha were back in the game, down a bowler with Perry required to work, the team was unable to close the game out and a few wides and byes did not help. Central needed six runs off six balls in the last over which they managed on the second last ball eight for 112. Central Gippsland will play Sale Maffra in the GCL final on February 12 at Leongatha turf, they will also play off in the Under 16 final at Korumburra turf on the same day. The senior final between Sale Maffra and Bairnsdale will be held at Scorpion Park February 12. Leongatha Cricket Association will be hosting all finals matches.

Getting there: owner of Korumburra’s Bicycle Fitting Store John Kennedy said his petition is doing well, with more than 2000 signatures gathered since launching it late last year.

Strong victory to the Goannas A COOL partly cloudy day greeted the Gippsland Over60 cricket team on arrival at the Seville Cricket Ground to play the Yarra Valley Over60’s.

The ground was in excellent condition, despite heavy overnight rain and the artificial turf wicket was unaffected by the conditions. Goannas captain Kevin Lanigan, returning from injury, won the toss and elected to bat. Fred Debono and Ian Gibson played themselves in nicely and had the score at 28 after 10 overs. They then started to increase the scoring rate and Debono retired for 41 in the 19th over and the score was 78 at the 20 over drinks break. Gibson retired at the break with 28 runs to his name. Ray Smith and Alex Dowsett kept the runs ticking over with Smith retiring for 43 in the 28th over and when Dowsett was run out for 15 the score was one for 138. After 30 overs, the score was 139 and Lanigan, 36 retired, Murray Moore, 23, Neil Meredith, Ian Southall, Gordon Cowling and Graeme Freshwater all pushed the score along as the Goannas reached 217 for the loss of four wickets at the end of the 40

over innings. The YV afternoon tea, and later the after match snacks, were delicious and a hot cup of tea was needed to offset the mid-January chills. Southall and Cowling opened the bowling, with Southy bowling the opener with the first ball of his second over. This pair was replaced after eight overs and the YV score was 1/15. Peter Anton and Freshwater took up the attack, and each forced batsmen to play false shots. Wickets fell, catches were held, a run out was effected and the YV innings had fallen apart by the 20th over, and they went to drinks at 7 for 49. A bit of resistance occurred after that as Kel Bond, Dowsett, Lanigan, Meredith and Debono each bowled a few overs. The YV innings concluded in the 38th over, as they were all out for 94. Freshwater with three for 19 from eight overs was the pick of the bowlers, with Cowling, Southall, Anton, Dowsett and Meredith all picking up wickets. Special mention must be made of the catching. Moore, Anton and Gibson each took two catches, with a low, hard catch at short mid wicket to Moore being described as ‘an A Grade catch’, not one that should occur in an

Over-60’s match. The stunned look on the batsman said it all. Greg Johnson, the president of Veterans Cricket Victoria, played in the game and said a few welcoming words after the game. He congratulated several players on their selection for State teams. Kevin Lanigan will captain the State Over-60 team in a match against South Australia on February 19. He will be joined in that match by Ray Smith and Ian Southall. The latter will also travel to Tasmania to play in the annual match against the Tas Over-60’s at the end of February. The State Over-70 team will also play matches against South Australia and Tasmania on the same dates. Goannas’ Peter Dell will wicket keep in the match against Tasmania, while Fred Debono, Graeme Freshwater and Ian Gibson will all play against South Australia at Geelong. The Goannas next game is a home game on Sunday next, January 21, against the Essendon Over-60 team. This match will be played at Mirboo North, starting at 11am. The Goannas will continue to train at the Glengarry Cricket Club nets on Wednesday from 4.45pm.

Water is only safe when you’re watching ROYAL Life Saving is urging parents across Victoria not to be complacent about their child’s safety around water.

Latest Royal Life Saving research shows 461 children under the age of five died due to drowning in Australia over the past 15 years, an average of 31 per year. Of these, half were in home pools and spas. Active adult supervision had either lapsed or was entirely absent in all cases. For every toddler drowning death, approximately 10 children are admitted to hospital as a result of nonfatal drowning. Although they survive, many suffer lifelong consequences. In Victoria, between July 1, 2002 and June 30, 2017, 55 children aged up to four drowned and 19 of these occurred in home swimming pools. Royal Life Saving is launching a new awareness campaign urging parents and carers to Keep Watch of

children around water no matter what. Life Saving Victoria, risk and research department, Rhiannon Birch said, “Water is only safe when you’re watching. Distractions like answering the phone, attending to another child, or ducking inside to grab something can have tragic consequences if a toddler is left unattended by water. “Actively supervise children around water, check your pool fence and gate, and never prop the pool gate open. Swimming lessons are great, but they are no substitute for active supervision and a pool fence in good working order. “Australians are comfortable around water. Many have grown up swimming in the backyard pool, going to the beach, playing with the garden sprinkler, or paddling down the river. This familiarity means that parents can let their guard down – even if just for a moment, complacency can lead to disaster. “Active adult supervision is key to preventing

children drowning in backyard swimming pools. Regularly check your pool fence and gate, and never propping the pool gate open.” A NSW study of child drowning deaths in home swimming pools over the last 15 years showed that in 62 percent of cases, the child gained access to the pool area through a faulty fence or gate, or a gate which had been deliberately propped open, allowing the child to enter the pool area unaccompanied. Michael and Jo-ann Morris know the tragedy that can come from a faulty pool fence. Their two year old son, Samuel slipped through a broken pool fence panel while his mother was doing the washing. Jo-ann found Samuel in the pool, and gave her son CPR with the support of neighbours and emergency services. Samuel survived the tragic accident but sustained a severe brain injury, requiring long-term medical care. After a brave eight year battle, Samuel passed away in 2014 as a result of his injury.

Almost half (46 percent) of toddler drowning deaths in home pools occurred in summer, and one fifth (21 percent) occurred on a Sunday. Ms Birch said, “It’s common at this time of year to have family gatherings and backyard barbecues with friends, which brings with additional distractions into the home. Have a designated supervisor for children, and don’t leave children in the care of older siblings.” The campaign is the latest initiative of Royal Life Saving’s Keep Watch program which has actively been working for more than 20 years to prevent toddler drowning deaths. The four Keep Watch messages are constant adult supervision, restrict access to water, teach children water safety, learn how to resuscitate. Above all, always keep watch. For further facts and information visit KEEPWATCH.COM.AU and join the conversation online at #KeepWatch.

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Exciting matches at Tennis Classic LEONGATHA turned it on for the 18th Annual South Gippsland Junior and Open Tennis Classic. Friday, January 5, was day one of the tournament. Conditions couldn’t have been better with no wind and a top of 27 degrees. Some fantastic tennis was on display with the 10’s singles and doubles, and 14’s singles, doubles and mixed and open singles. Saturday, January 6, day two, presented a challenge with a forecast of 40. Play got underway early at 8am with 12’s singles and doubles, and 16’s singles, doubles and mixed and open doubles. Unfortunately play was cut off at 12.30pm at 37 degrees with all players resting up for a big final day. Sunday, January 7, day three, presented the best conditions with all players looking very fresh, great competitive tennis was on display. Once again the family doubles was a big hit with 10 pairs entering. Father-son combo from Drouin Mick and Archie Shannon were winners over the local fatherdaughter combo Greg and Alicia Marshman. Young Queenslander Matilda Gourlay was a standout, winning the U14 girls’ singles, defeating Zara Littlejohn, and playing U14 girls’ doubles with Zara Littlejohn, and U14 mixed doubles with Luke Marshman.

She also played U16 girls’ singles, defeating Jayla Morcom, and was runners up in U16 doubles with Rachel Carlisle. Well done to all players who had such great attitudes on the court, some players had up to 10 matches a day. Thank you to Leongatha Tennis Club for providing such a great venue; especially John Bolge for having the courts ready, Greg Marshman and Warren Littlejohn for their effort around the club during the tournament and providing a large tarp which was to provide more shade for the hot Saturday. Input from local businesses was also appreciated. Sally Pocklington, Steph Fowler, Skeets and Cheryl put in three big days upstairs ensuring all players and spectators were hydrated and had a good feed. Congratulations to Nathan Harris who was selected for the most determined player in memory of Don Wilson. This award was for a player who showed great sportsmanship on and off the court. Nathan was very touched by the award; thank you to the Wilson family for coming down on the Sunday. Thank you to everyone who made this tournament possible and tournament organiser Matthew Pocklington looks forward to catching up with all

players again next year. With tennis being so hot right now South Gippsland Tennis Coaching is taking term one bookings now. Contact Matthew (phone or text) 0402 736 693 or go to www.southgippslandtenniscoaching.com.au for more info or to send an enquiry. Results: J.G. Wood Supplies U10 Singles: Archie Shannon defeated Darcy Britt 6/2 6/3. Nick Nelson Electrical U10 Doubles: Archie Shannon and Regan Awty defeated Ryder and Darcy Britt 6/0. Starfish Software U12 Boys Singles: Archie Shannon defeated Sam Liefting 7/1. RyanHayward.com.au U12 Girls Singles: Kyra Manakau defeated Katelyn Harris 7/6. Bakers Delight U12 Girls Doubles: Kyra Manakau and Sidney Awty defeated Zara Kreutzberger and Katelyn Harris 6/5. Chris the Carpet Layer U14 Boys Singles: Luke Marshman defeated Sam Liefting 8/2. Nextra Leongatha U14 Girls Singles: Matilda Gourlay defeated Zara Littlejohn 8/4. Rath and Co U14 Boys Doubles: Malachi Ashley and Luke Marshman defeated Sam Liefting and Seth Cummins 8/4. ANZ U14 Girls Doubles: Zara Littlejohn and Matilda Gourlay defeated Kyra Manakau and Kate Caughey 8/0.

A Seasoned Kitchen U14 Mixed Doubles: Luke Marshman and Matilda Gourlay defeated Malachi Ashley and Zara Littlejohn 7/5. Core ‘n Saw U16 Boys Singles: Will Littlejohn defeated Connor Krohn 7/6. Select Produce U16 Girls Singles: Matilda Gourlay defeated Jayla Morcom 6/4 6/7 7/6. J.W. Refrigeration and Air-conditioning U16 Boys Doubles: Will Littlejohn and Connor Krohn defeated Nathan Harris and Ryan Hayward 6/2. Hartley Wells Betta Home Living U16 Girls Doubles: Zara Littlejohn and Jayla Morcom defeated Matilda Gourlay and Rachel Carlisle 6/3 6/0. Knights of Leongatha U16 Mixed Doubles: Harrison Taylor-Smith and Zara Littlejohn defeated Ryan Hayward and Alicia Marshman 6/5. Ezyas Car Wash Open Ladies Singles: Zara Littlejohn defeated Alicia Marshman 8/1. Ezyas Car Wash Open Men’s Singles: Mick Shannon defeated Connor Krohn 6/0 6/4. D.I.G Carpentry, Landscapes and Earthworks Open Men’s Doubles: Mick Shannon and Glenn Awty defeated Will Littlejohn and Connor Krohn. S.G. Hire and Sales Family Doubles: Mick and Archie Shannon defeated Greg and Alicia Marshman 6/1.

U12 girls’ singles: Katelyn Harris was the Honoured: Emily Wilson, Tarnya Wilson, Sam Wilson and organiser Matt Pocklington pre- Open ladies singles: runner up Alicia Marsh- runner up to Kyra Manakau. sented Nathan Harris (centre) with the Don Wilson Award for being the most determined man and winner Zara Littlejohn. player during the 18th Annual South Gippsland Junior and Open Tennis Classic.

U14 girls’ doubles: Kyra Manakau and Kate U14 girls’ singles: Zara Littlejohn was run- Caughey came in second to Zara Littlejohn U10s singles: runner up Darcy Britt with Open men’s singles: runner up Connor and Matilda Gourlay. ner up to Matilda Gourlay. Krohn with winner Mick Shannon. winner Archie Shannon.

Family doubles: the Marshmans Greg and Alicia congratulate winners Mick and Archie U12 girls’ doubles: Katelyn Harris and Zara Kruetzberger were runners up, and Sydney Shannon. Awty and Kyra Manakau were the winners.

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U16 girls’ singles: Jayla Morcom was the runner up and Matilda Gourlay was the winner.

U16 girls’ doubles: runners up Matilda Gourlay and Rachel Carlisle, with winners Zara Littlejohn and Jayla Morcom.

U10 doubles: Ryder and Darcy Britt were runners up, and Archie Shannon and Regan Awty were the winners.

U14 doubles: Sam Liefting and Seth Cum- Open men’s doubles: Mick Shannon and mins were runners up to Luke Marshman and Glenn Awty defeated Will Littlejohn and U16 mixed doubles: runners up Alicia Marshman and Ryan Hayward with winners Zara Littlejohn and Harrison Taylor-Smith. Malachi Ashley. Connor Krohn.

Ideal conditions make for a fast Tarwin Marathon ONCE a year, South Gippsland Yacht Club abandons its short course racing format and sends its sailors on an adventure to the upper reaches of Anderson Inlet in what is termed the Tarwin River Marathon.

In days past, boats would sail up the river to the Tarwin Lower Hotel. In recent years however, the entrance has become very difficult to navigate due to silting so in the modern version of the race, boats sail up to the mouth, turn round a marker buoy and return to the club. This format still has its difficulties as the water is quite murky, making the unfamiliar channels and sandbars very hard to see. Most boats hit bottom at least once during the race. In some years of light, fluky winds the marathon has taken up to seven hours. On Sunday, there was a steady 15 knot breeze which enabled the quickest boats to make the return journey in just under one and a half hours and provide exciting sailing for all involved. The catamarans in particular, relished the long, high speed reaching legs of the race. The yacht club was again joined by several members of the Inverloch Windsurfing Club which adds to the diversity of craft in the event and provides for some friendly rivalry between the two clubs. Thanks also to the Inverloch SES which helped out on the safety front with two crews in inflatable boats supporting the two yacht club rescue boats. With a large number of yachts spread across such an expanse of water it was a reassuring addition to the support fleet and valuable practice for the SES crews. In the end the first two places went to Impulse sailors with Toby Leppin just pipping Matt Kiely. Toby and Matt each won a three-month gym membership at Broadbeach. In third place was Jake Luratti who continued

his good form in a borrowed Windrush catamaran Jake’s boat is still on its way back from Perth where he sailed it to second place in the Nacra 16 nationals. Club sailing returns to normal this week with a social sail on Tuesday evening, junior training on Saturday from 10am and regular racing on Sunday.

Section1: Inverloch’s Dylan Shone and Seth Cummins were doubles winners, coming up against Phillip Island’s Kristos Kossena and Cailen Lone in the recent Korrine and District Junior Tennis Association’s annual tournament.

Pennant doubles: Westernport’s Xander Broadbear and Flynn McMahon had a win against Westernport’s Matthew and Luke Nicholson in the recent Korrine and District Junior Tennis Association’s annual tournament.

Alberton Football Netball League Draw 2018

Outstanding result: Matt Kiely leads David and Will Barker. He went on to take second place.

Great start: Jess and Oscar Beachley sailed well in their first Tarwin Marathon.

EASTER: March 31 Tarwin v MDU Round 1: April 7 Toora v Fish Creek DWWWW v Foster Stony Creek - bye Round 2: April 14 Fish Creek v DWWWW Foster v Tarwin MDU v Stony Creek Toora - bye Round 3: April 21 DWWWW v Toora Tarwin v Fish Creek Stony Creek v Foster MDU - bye Round 4: April 28 Toora v Tarwin Fish Creek v Stony Creek Foster v MDU DWWWW - bye Round 5: May 5 Tarwin v DWWWW MDU v Fish Creek Stony Creek v Toora Foster - bye Round 6: May 12 Toora v MDU Fish Creek v Foster DWWWW v Stony Creek Tarwin - bye Round 7: May 19 Toora v Foster MDU v DWWWW Stony Creek v Tarwin Fish Creek - bye Round 8: May 26 Fish Creek v Toora Foster v DWWWW MDU v Tarwin Stony Creek - bye Round 9: June 2

DWWWW v Fish Creek Tarwin v Foster Stony Creek v MDU Toora - bye Round 10: June 9 Tarwin v Toora MDU v Foster Stony Creek v Fish Creek DWWWW - bye Round 11: June 16 Toora v DWWWW Fish Creek v Tarwin Foster v Stony Creek MDU - bye Round 12: June 23 Toora v Stony Creek Fish Creek v MDU DWWWW v Tarwin Foster - bye Round 13: June 30 Foster v Fish Creek MDU v Toora Stony Creek v DWWWW Tarwin - bye Round 14: July 7 DWWWW v MDU Foster v Toora Tarwin v Stony Creek Fish Creek - bye Round 15: July 14 Toora v Fish Creek DWWWW v Foster Tarwin v MDU Stony Creek - bye Round 16: July 21 Fish Creek v DWWWW Foster v Tarwin MDU v Stony Creek Toora - bye Round 17: July 28 DWWWW v Toora Tarwin v Fish Creek

Stony Creek v Foster MDU - bye Round 18: August 4 Toora v Tarwin Fish Creek v Stony Creek Foster v MDU DWWWW - bye Round 19: August 11 Tarwin v DWWWW MDU v Fish Creek Stony Creek v Toora Foster - bye Round 20: August 18 Toora v MDU Fish Creek v Foster DWWWW v Stony Creek Tarwin - bye Round 21: August 25 Foster v Toora MDU v DWWWW Stony Creek v Tarwin Fish Creek - bye SEMI FINAL 1v2 ELIMINATION FINAL 3v4 PRELIMINARY FINAL GRAND FINAL

Sept 1 Sept 2 Sept 8 Sept 15

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• LDCA B Grade

Draws across the board for B Grade RAIN made play impossible on Saturday, and draws were declared throughout B Grade.

In B1, MDU played out its innings against Koonwarra/LRSL with batsmen Gary Webster and Cooper Cary making 34 and 29 runs respectively. Lochie Smith took 3/17 in his B Grade debut for the Cougars. MDU finished its inning 7/107. Koonwarra/LRSL began its inning with opening batsmen Jake Rockall and Matt Wilson making 23 and 27 runs respectively. Neither was out before the game was called off. OMK were saved by the rain after coming up against Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club. The Workers batted first, with Joel Brann accumulating a massive 97 run haul. Lochlan McLean also

performed well, contributing 60 runs. OMK bowler Rhys Dixon took out 5/43, and the Workers finished its innings all out for 212. Noel Creed top scored for OMK with 41runs, and Workers bowler Drew Herbert took out two wickets. OMK were 7/97 when the game was called off. The game between Phillip Island and Nerrena was shut down quickly, with Phillip Island making 1/14. Nerrena bowler Charlie Doughtery took out one wicket. Only five overs were played. Town played its innings against Kilcunda Bass and Steven Fixter top score with 42 runs. Kilcunda Bass bowler Shaun Tapscott claimed 4/6, and Town ended its innings all out for 103. Kilcunda Bass played out six overs, in which Craig Elliott and James Markland made four and two runs respectively. Town bowler Anthony Hanily took out two

In form: veteran Gary Webster top scored for MDU in the B1 game against Koonwarra/ LRSL. The match was eventually abandoned due to rain.

Leongatha District Cricket Association

Umpire Appointments EVANS PETROLEUM Round 11 - January 20 & 27 Home team

Away Team

Ground

Umpire

Grade A1 Glen Alvie Town Korumburra Kilcunda Bass

v v v v

Won Club OMK Inverloch Phillip Island

Glen Alvie SP 1 Kor Turf Bass 1

T. Rogers G. Laird J. Schelling A. Stride

Grade A2 Koon L/RSL Foster MDU Won Miners

v v v v

Imperials Poowong Loch Nerrena Bye

Leon Turf FGC Meeniyan

G. Wightman M. Heenan A. Jordan

Grade B1 Won Club OMK Nerrena Phillip Island

v v v v

Koon L/RSL Town MDU Kilcunda Bass

McMahon Outtrim Nerrena Cowes

N. Grabham I. Richards K. Scrimshaw I. Thomas

Grade B2 Poowong Loch Inverloch Imperials Glen Alvie

v v v v

Foster Korumburra Won Miners Bye

Loch Inv Turf EC

G. Wyatt N. Grayden N. Barnes

Grade C1 Inverloch OMK Phillip Island Korumburra

v v v v

Won Club Town Nerrena MDU

IFG Digger Pk Rhyll Kor SC

V. Baskerville B. Bek TBA TBA

Grade C2 Koon L/RSL Kilcunda Bass Won Club Poowong Loch

v v v v

Glen Alvie Korumburra OMK Phillip Island

Koonw Bass 2 Won SC Poowong

TBA TBA TBA TBA

Any person interested in umpiring contact Graham Laird 0408 454 741. SPONSORED BY EVANS PETROLEUM

wickets. In B2, Poowong Loch batted first but did not complete its innings. Its opening partnership proved strong with Keanu Miller and Matthew Allen making 19 and 12 runs respectively. Imperials bowlers Tim McGrath and Kristian Gray took out two wickets each. Poowong Loch made 6/64 before the game was declared a draw. Inverloch came up against Glen Alvie, and went in to bat first. The top scorers were Dean Cashin and John Bowring with 35 and 30 runs respectively. Glen Alvie bowlers Josh Thomas and Lachlan McRae claimed three wickets each, and Inverloch ended the innings 9/138. Jy Hull’s 20 run haul was the top score for Glen Alvie, which made 9/55 before the game was called off. The Inverloch bowlers were on fire, with Clayton Fisher, Amad Mujtaba, Joseph Courtenay and Shaun Hayes each taking two wickets. Inverloch’s Aaron Brayley also took three catches. Wonthaggi Miners played its innings against Korumburra. Frank Andrighetto made the top score with 49 runs. Clint Honeysett made 32 runs and Darren Beesey made 35 runs. Korumburra bowlers Dean Bailey, Barry Kerr, Mathew Olden and Jason Richards each took out a wicket. Miners ended the day with 4/161. Korumburra managed 3.3 overs before the match was abandoned. Kerr made 16 runs and Jye Celebrine made seven runs. Neither was out when the match was called off. Foster had a bye this round.

Division 1

OMK drew WON CLUB 1st innings Won Club D. Britt b. R. Dixon............ 10 M. Davey b. R. Dixon .......... 0 I. Barnes c. J. Greenwood b. R. Dixon ....................... 0 L. McLean b. R. Dixon ...... 60 J. Brann b. R. Dixon............. 2 C. Harvey c. K. Kerr b. R. White ..................... 97 D. Herbert c. R. White b. J. Greenwood ............... 8 J. Wade c. K. Kerr b. N. Auddino ................... 2 B. Evans c&b. N. Auddino... 9 N. Dobbie n.o. .................... 11 M. Sharp c. N. Creed b. R. White ....................... 0 Extras ................................ 13 Total ................................. 212 Bowling: R. Dixon 5/43, N. Besley 0/42, R. White

2/29, J. Greenwood 1/27, D. McMeekin 0/14, N. Auddino 2/55. 1st innings OMK L. Jones b. D. Herbert .......... 1 E. Lamers c. B. Evans b. D. Herbert .................. 15 R. White c&b. N. Dobbie... 22 N. Creed c. C. Harvey b. L. McLean .................. 41 K. Kerr b. J. Brann ............... 0 D. McMeekin r.o. ............... 10 J. Myors c. D. Herbert b. M. Sharp....................... 1 J. Greenwood n.o. ................ 0 N. Besley n.o. ....................... 0 Extras .................................. 7 Total ................................ 7/97 Bowling: D. Herbert 2/15, M. Sharp 1/25, J. Brann 1/11, N. Dobbie 1/19, B. Evans 0/11, J. Wade 0/8, L. McLean 1/3. NERRENA drew PHILLIP ISLAND 1st innings Phillip Island Extras .................................. 0 Total ................................ 1/14 KILCUNDA BASS drew TOWN 1st innings Town M. Kreutzberger c. A. Wells b. A. McBride................. 10 A. Hickey c. A. Wells b. R. Duff ......................... 3 S. Fixter c. R. Gardiner b. R. Duff ....................... 42 J. Dean lbw. b. R. Duff......... 1 N. Hanily c. S. Tapscott b. A. McBride................... 6 T. Cashin b. A. Wells .......... 12 R. Edwards c. T. Aplin b. S. Tapscott .................... 3 L. Kleinert c. R. Gardiner b. S. Tapscott .................... 0 B. Grabham c. R. Gardiner b. S. Tapscott .................... 2 A. Hanily c. R. Gardiner b. S. Tapscott .................. 11 D. Goss n.o........................... 3 Extras .................................. 9 Total ................................. 103 Bowling: A. Wells 1/24, R. Duff 1/22, A. McBride 2/25, R. Duff 2/22, S. Tapscott 4/6. 1st innings Kilcunda Bass T. Aplin c. J. Dean b. A. Hanily ...................... 0 C. Elliott c&b. A. Hanily ..... 4 J. Markland n.o. ................... 2 B. Joseph n.o. ....................... 0 Extras .................................. 3 Total .................................. 2/9 Bowling: A. Hickey 0/3, A. Hanily 2/6. KOONWARRA L/RSL drew MDU 1st innings MDU G. Webster c. N. Arnup b. I. Smith....................... 34 M. Olden b. N. Arnup .......... 0 W. Prosser c. J. Rockall b. A. Drury ..................... 19 J. McEwan b. A. Drury ........ 0 C. Cary c. J. Moore b. I. Smith....................... 29 S. McRae n.o. ..................... 11 M. Cantwell c. D. Baker b. D. Clark ........................ 1 J. Riley b. I. Smith ............... 0 D. Thomas n.o. ..................... 3 Extras ................................ 10 Total .......................7/107 (cc) Bowling: B. Hastings 0/4, N. Arnup 1/6, A. Drury 2/18, K. Thorne 0/28, D. Clark 1/27, I. Smith 3/17. 1st innings Koon L/RSL J. Rockall n.o...................... 23 M. Wilson n.o. .................... 27 Extras .................................. 4 Total ................................ 0/54 Bowling: J. Riley 0/33, S. Benra 0/9, C. Cary 0/10.

Division 2

INVERLOCH drew

GLEN ALVIE 1st innings Inverloch C. Fisher c. W. Luke b. J. Thomas ..................... 9 B. Phillips c. S. Lowe b. W. Luke ...................... 18 D. Cashin b. L. McRae....... 35 J. Williams c. B. Cox b. L. McRae...................... 0 A. Mujtaba c. D. Hale b. L. McRae.................... 17 J. Courtenay c. J. Hull b. B. Cox .......................... 2 J. Bowring c. I. Thorn b. J. Thomas ................... 30 A. Brayley c. S. Lowe b. W. Luke ........................ 6 S. Hayes b. J. Thomas .......... 0 M. Woods n.o. ...................... 0 Z. Scholz n.o. ....................... 0 Extras ................................ 21 Total .......................9/138 (cc) Bowling: J. Thomas 3/19, D. Gilbert 0/13, B. Cox 1/31, W. Luke 2/28, L. McRae 3/20, S. Lowe 0/16. 1st innings Glen Alvie S. Lowe b. C. Fisher............. 1 I. Thorn c. A. Mujtaba b. C. Fisher ....................... 8 J. Tiziani c. A. Brayley b. J. Bowring .................... 1 J. Hull n.o. .......................... 20 D. Hale b. A. Mujtaba .......... 2 D. Tiziani c. A. Brayley b. A. Mujtaba.................... 1 J. Thomas b. J. Williams b. S. Hayes ....................... 8 W. Luke b. S. Hayes ............. 4 D. Gilbert c. A. Brayley b. J. Courtenay ................. 0 L. McRae lbw. b. J. Courtenay ................. 0 B. Cox n.o. ........................... 0 Extras ................................ 10 Total .........................9/55 (cc) Bowling: J. Bowring 1/13, C. Fisher 2/1, A. Mujtaba 2/6, J. Williams 0/7, J. Courtenay 2/17, S. Hayes 2/7. POOWONG LOCH drew IMPERIALS 1st innings Poowong Loch K. Miller b. T. McGrath ..... 19 M. Allen c. K. Gray b. J. Forrester.................. 12 T. Allen b. T. McGrath ......... 4 J. Poynton c. P. McCaughan b. K. Gray......................... 4 I. Jenkins stp. A. Meyer b. K. Gray......................... 5 G. Poynton r.o. ..................... 6 M. Adderley n.o. .................. 6 B. Hall n.o. ........................... 4 Extras .................................. 4 Total ................................ 6/64 Bowling: P. McCaughan 0/6, J. Forrester 1/15, T. Evans 0/13, T. McGrath 2/23, K. Gray 2/6.

Focused: Koonwarra/LRSL bowler Dylan Clark sends the ball down to his opponent. He claimed 1/27. WON MINERS drew KORUMBURRA 1st innings Won Miners C. Honeysett b. J. Richards .................. 32 D. McGuirk c&b. M. Olden ................. 8 D. Beesey c. M. Olden b. B. Kerr........................ 35 F. Andrighetto b. D. Bailey .................... 49 W. Chapman n.o. ................ 11 M. Martin n.o. ...................... 5 Extras ................................ 21 Total .......................4/161 (cc) Bowling: E. Allaway 0/24, D. Bailey 1/22, J. Cook 0/12, B. Kerr 1/30, M. Olden 1/34, J. Richards 1/31. 1st innings Korumburra B. Kerr n.o.......................... 16 J. Celebrine n.o. ................... 7 Extras ................................ 10 Total ................................ 0/33 Bowling: M. Martin 0/17, M. Greenway 0/13.

LDCA ladders A Grade Division 1 Inverloch ........................... 84 Won Club .......................... 84 OMK.................................. 78 Glen Alvie.......................... 72 Korumburra ........................ 60 Phillip Island ...................... 48 Kilcunda Bass .................... 30 Town................................... 24 A Grade Division 2 Poowong-Loch .................. 84 Nerrena ............................. 78 Koonwarra-L/RSL ........... 48 Imperials ........................... 48 Won Miners ........................ 42 MDU .................................. 30 Foster.................................. 30 B Grade Division 1 Won Club .......................... 96 Phillip Island..................... 84 OMK.................................. 72 Koonwarra L/RSL ........... 60 Nerrena ............................... 60 MDU .................................. 42 Town................................... 42 Kilcunda-Bass .................... 24 B Grade Division 2 Glen Alvie.......................... 96 Korumburra ..................... 72 Won Miners ...................... 48 Poowong-Loch .................. 48 Imperials ............................ 42

Inverloch ............................ 36 Foster.................................. 18 C Grade Division 1 Korumburra ..................... 90 Nerrena ............................. 80 Won Club .......................... 78 OMK.................................. 78 MDU .................................. 72 Phillip Island ...................... 54 Inverloch ............................ 18 Town................................... 18 C Grade Division 2 Phillip Island..................... 96 OMK.................................. 84 Won Club .......................... 72 Glen Alvie.......................... 72 Koonwarra L/RSL.............. 48 Poowong-Loch ................... 48 Korumburra ........................ 48 Kilcunda-Bass ....................12 Town.....................................0 Under 16 Won Club ..........................66 Glen Alvie..........................54 OMK..................................42 Koonwarra L/RSL ...........36 MDU ..................................30 Korumburra ........................18 Town...................................18 Nerrena ...............................18 Kilcunda Bass ......................6

• LDCA C Grade

Wonthaggi batsmen show the way ROUND 10 LDCA C1 action saw Wonthaggi host Nerrena, that won the toss and elected to bat.

Nerrena managed 9/158 after their allotted overs, Poly Joseph the standout with 57, including eight boundaries. Emmet Dempsey did his best to drag Nerrena back, taking 2/24 off his eight overs. In reply, Wonthaggi cruised to

victory, finishing 4/176 after just 32 overs. Joel Liddel started with 52 not out to help guide his team home, the wickets shared amongst the Nerrena bowlers. Town hosted MDU Sunday, seeking a rare opportunity to play on the turf wicket. A low scoring game saw Town scratch their way to 8/103 after their allotted overs, Jaryth Goss and Nigel Hodges leading the way with 19 runs

each, whilst Mitchell Hoober and Keiren Brown took two wickets apiece. In reply, MDU passed Town’s score in the final over, finishing at 3/107 after their allotted overs. Mitchell Hoober backed up his bowling performance with 39 not out with the bat, the wickets shared amongst the Town bowlers. OMK received the points over Inverloch, who forfeited the game. All other C1 and C2 fixtures were abandoned due to rain.

• Mirboo North Cricket

Too hot one week, too wet the next A GRADE Mirboo North vs Trafalgar at Walter Tuck Turf With last week called off due to the heat, this week was to be played as a one day game. Trafalgar batted and after an early wicket to rising young star Rohan Hughes the rain arrived with the score at 1/55. Lunch was taken early and the rain continued to fall and, with no further play possible, a draw was

declared.

B Grade

Trafalgar 10/37 vs Mirboo North 2/127 Trafalgar also batted first in B Grade and were soon in big trouble, destroyed by a magical 20 over spell of pace bowling by opening pair Basha Bradshaw (5/18) and Todd Alexander (4/14). Club legend Steve Rogers was then handed the ball and his first

delivery took the final wicket with Trafalgar all out for just 37 runs. Mirboo North had little trouble overhauling the score with Jed Alexander (24), Powell (26 not out), and a classy chanceless innings from Cam LePage (70 not out) before declaring at 2/127 from 27 overs.

C Grade

Mirboo North 5/100 vs St Vincents Green Rain threatened all day on the

Strzelecki Ranges but between showers the home side made it to 5/100 with contributions from Rob Hussey (18), Andy Evans (23), and Cook (16 not out), and Josh Hussey (10 not out). When the rain set in, both captains agreed to call it a day and share the points. Pepper 2/13 and a catch, and wicket keeper Arnold with four catches leading the way for St Vincents.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 45

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thestar.com.au • LDCA A Grade

Rain forces players off the field NO A1 games were played to completion this week due to heavy rainfall.

While Town and Kilcunda Bass abandoned their match from the beginning, the rest of the teams made an attempt at play. Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club almost finished the game against OMK. Batting first, a 78 run stint from Sam Huitema put the Workers on the path to victory. Ryan Thomas followed on with 60 runs. OMK bowlers Peter Dell and Daniel Mock took out two wickets each, but the Workers pushed through and made 7/245. OMK looked competitive with Mock and Jason Wilson making 51 and 56 runs respectively, but only made 5/160 when the game was abandoned. Workers bowler Zane Macdermid kept the pressure on and took 4/42. Korumburra and Glen Alvie called off their match after 11 overs. Prior to abandoning the match, Korumburra batsmen Shane Dole and Matthew Houston had made 32 and 21 not out respectively. Glen Alvie bowlers Daniel Diwell and Jordan Smith each took one wicket. Inverloch made it halfway through the innings against Phillip Island before play was abandoned. Brett Debono opened the innings well with 26 runs. Phillip Island bowlers Simon Kirton and Jona Watts took two wickets each. Inverloch had accumulated 5/61 before they had to leave the field. Two games were completed in A2. In an upset, bottom of the ladder Foster rose

up to defeat the Wonthaggi Miners. Miners’ opening partnership Cameron Thomas and Blake Andrighetto had a strong start, making 45 and 54 runs respectively. However, Foster bowlers Daniel O’Keefe and Graeme Watkins kicked it into gear and took three wickets each, making sure no more damage could be done. Miners were all out for 164. A 60 run haul from Foster’s Mitchell Jones drove the team home. Murray Lynch followed on with 42 runs. Miners’ bowler Jonothan Rumbold tried to slow the opposition by taking 4/37, but Foster edged them out. Foster won the day 8/166. Koonwarra/LRSL also edged out MDU. Batsman Troy Sinclair drove the team to victory with a 31 run haul. Thomas Elliott was Koonwarra/LRSL’s top bowler, taking 3/20. MDU finished its innings 9/119. Koonwarra/LRSL’s Ben Perry followed suit, top scoring with 31 runs. MDU’S Craig Hoober caused havoc, claiming 4/17. However, Koonwarra/LRSL made it through with 7/122. Imperials and Poowong Loch called off their match before play started. Nerrena had the bye.

Division 1

KORUMBURRA drew GLEN ALVIE 1st innings Korumburra I. Osman c. S. Smith b. J. Smith ...................... 11 K. Rigby c. D. Williams b. D. Diwell ...................... 8 S. Dole n.o.......................... 32 M. Houston n.o. ................. 21 Extras .................................. 1 Total .........................2/73 (cc) Bowling: D. Diwell 1/13, J. Smith 1/29, D. Williams 0/31. WON CLUB drew OMK 1st innings Won Club J. Wallace c. C. Honeyman

b. J. Van Rooye .............. 15 S. Huitema c. A. Miller b. D. Mock ..................... 78 M. Thomas c. J. Van Rooye b. N. Cant ......................... 6 R. Thomas c. N. Cant b. J. Wilson ..................... 60 J. Sheerin c. A. Rose b. D. Mock ....................... 1 D. Turton c. D. Lloyd b. P. Dell ......................... 25 J. Sheerin n.o. ..................... 32 M. McCall lbw. b. P. Dell..... 1 A. Geyer n.o. ........................ 9 Extras ................................ 18 Total .......................7/245 (cc) Bowling: P. Dell 2/31, J. Cochrane 0/15, J. Van Rooye 1/21, N. Cant 1/51, D. Mock 2/56, J. Wilson 1/63. 1st innings OMK A. Miller c. M. Thomas b. Z. Macdermid............. 18 T. Wyatt c. M. Thomas b. M. McCall .................... 4 D. Mock b. Z. Macdermid .. 51 J. Wilson c. R. Birkett b. Z. Macdermid............. 56 C. Honeyman n.o. ................ 8 J. Van Rooye lbw. b. Z. Macdermid............... 0 D. Lloyd n.o. ...................... 10 Extras ................................ 13 Total .......................5/160 (cc) Bowling: Z. Macdermid 4/42, M. McCall 1/20, A. Geyer 0/22, R. Birkett 0/32, J. Sheerin 0/16, M. Thomas 0/20, J. Wallace 0/2. PHILLIP ISLAND drew INVERLOCH 1st innings Inverloch B. Debono c. E. Richards b. C. Keerthisinghe ........ 26 K. Rotthier c. G. Selby b. S. Kirton ....................... 0 W. Stewart c. M. Kinghom b. J. Watts ....................... 15 W. Williams c. M. Kinghom b. J. Watts ......................... 8 D. Newman c. G. Selby b. S. Kirton ....................... 5 W. Taberner n.o. ................... 0 T. Thornby n.o. ..................... 2 Extras .................................. 5 Total ................................ 5/61 Bowling: M. Dennerley 0/12, S. Kirton 2/13, B. Christopher 0/10, C. Keethisinghe 1/13, J. Watts 2/11.

Division 2

MDU def by KOONWARRA L/RSL 1st innings MDU S. Arnup c. J. Hughes b. B. Perry ........................ 8 M. Martin c. S. Hughes b. B. Perry ........................ 4 T. Sinclair c. S. Parker b. T. Elliott ..................... 31 N. Eddy c. C. McPhee b. J. Kennedy.................. 15 T. Harris c. B. Tomada b. T. Elliott ..................... 14 C. Hoober c. S. Hughes b. J. Rushton..................... 9 P. Vine c. S. Hughes b. t. Elliott ........................ 0 D. Matthews c. S. Parker b. J. Hastings .................. 10 M. Olden b. J. Rushton ........ 2 B. Thorson n.o...................... 7 C. Harris n.o. ........................ 5 Extras ................................ 14 Total ....................... 9/119 (cc) Bowling: T. Elliott 3/20, B. Perry 2/27, J. Rushton 2/21, J. Kennedy 1/20, J. Hastings

1/30. 1st innings Koon L/RSL S. Hughes c. N. Eddy b. C. Hoober ................... 24 B. Davison c. D. Mathews b. C. Hoober ................... 14 B. Perry c. B. Thorson b. M. Olden .................... 31 S. Parker c. T. Harris b. C. Hoober ..................... 0 B. Tomada b. C. Hoober ...... 0 C. McPhee c. B. Thorson b. S. Arnup ..................... 14 J. Hughes n.o. ....................... 9 J. Kennedy r.o. ..................... 7 J. Rushton n.o....................... 4 Extras ................................ 19 Total .......................7/122 (cc) Bowling: C. Mathews 0/25, B. Thorson 0/19, C. Hoober 4/17, N. Eddy 0/28, S. Arnup 1/18, M. Olden 1/10. FOSTER d WON MINERS 1st innings Won Miners C. Thomas c. M. Jones b. G. Watkins .................. 45 B. Andrighetto c&b. G. Watkins ............. 54 D. Loos b. J. Staley .............. 4 P. Nelson c. J. Sparkes b. D. O’Keefe ................... 7 J. Andrighetto c. M. Lynch b. D. O’Keefe ................. 18 J. Nelson n.o....................... 11 S. Farrington c. J. Staley b. G. Watkins .................... 2 J. Loos lbw. b. D. O’Keefe... 0 J. Piasente r.o........................ 3 A. Honeysett c. J. Toner b. J. Weston ...................... 3 J. Rumbold r.o. ..................... 1 Extras ................................ 16 Total ................................. 164 Bowling: F. Griggs 0/29, D. O’Keefe 3/32, J. Weston 1/27, H. Griggs 0/16, J. Staley 1/29, G. Watkins 3/28. 1st innings Foster G. Watkins lbw. b. J. Loos ... 4 M. Jones c. D. Loos b. J. Rumbold ................. 60 J. Toner c. J. Loos b. P. Nelson .................... 15 D. O’Keefe c. A. Honeysett b. P. Nelson .................... 20 J. Staley c. S. Farrington b. J. Rumbold ................... 6 M. Lynch n.o. ..................... 42 J. Chaseling b. J. Rumbold... 0 J. Sp[arkes b. D. Loos .......... 4 H. Griggs b. J. Rumbold ...... 1 Extras ................................ 14 Total .......................8/166 (cc) Bowling: J. Loos 1/17, J. Piasente 0/29, P. Nelson 2/41, D. Loos 1/17, J. Rumbold 4/37, A. Honeysett 0/20.

Eyes up: MDU’s Tim Harris skies one off the top edge. Fortunately for him it landed safely.

On fire: Koony’s Ben Perry was on a hat trick early in the MDU innings.

Wet weather: Much of the B1 match between Koonwarra/LRSL and MDU was played in a light drizzle of rain, only being called off when the pitch became too wet for the bowlers’ safety.

Finals fire up cricketers WITH four rounds left of the season, teams are battling it out for a place in the Leongatha and District Cricket Association grand final.

The 2017/18 season has proven to be a tight contest, with no clear indication of how the finals series is expected to play out. In A1, it is looking like cricket fans will be treated to another clash between Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club and Inverloch. Inverloch – looking for a bit of redemption after a devastating grand final defeat against the Workers last season – have the upper hand at the moment, sitting on top by percentage. OMK is sitting in third with Glen Alvie just a game behind in fourth. It has been a strong season for Glen Alvie; the

team won the flag in A2 last season, earning a ticket to the A1 competition. Some strong recruiting has fuelled the side and allowed the team to remain a finals contender. In A2, Poowong Loch and Nerrena are the clear powerhouses and will likely go head to head in the premiership. However, finals are anybody’s game. There are three sides competing for the minor places on the ladder – just one game separates Wonthaggi Miners, Imperials and Koonwarra/LRSL, so third and fourth place are undetermined. The Workers are on fire in B1, leading a strong campaign throughout the season. Sitting two games below in second is Phillip Island, and the association anticipates to see these two battle it out in the finals. OMK holds a comfortable position in third.

While Koonwarra/LRSL is in fourth, it is tied for points with Nerrena. In B2, Glen Alvie is having an excellent season, standing far out from the pack. Korumburra is the next contender and is looking safe in second. However, the battle for third and fourth will be waged between Wonthaggi Miners, Poowong Loch and the Imperials. Korumburra is on top in C1, safely out of reach from Nerrena. The Workers and OMK are on equal points, with OMK pushed down to fourth on percentage. One game behind, MDU is in with a chance of breaking into the top four. In C2, Phillip Island is the stand out team ahead of OMK. The Workers and Glen Alvie are on equal points in third and fourth respectively. Association secretary Gary Adams said there

had been solid competition right throughout the season, with big improvements being made in multiple clubs. “Glen Alvie recruited well and is having a strong season. It also has great U16 and U14 sides, so it is making it one of the stand out sides,” he said. “MDU, Koonwarra/LRSL and OMK have also done extremely well this year, and we could be seeing any one of them in the finals.” Mr Adams said it had been an interesting season because the heat policy was enacted for the first time. The changes in the weather this year have made it more important than ever to be on top of the ladder, as it could earn a ticket straight into the finals in the event of poor weather. Interest in cricket has been strong this year, as Mr Adams reported there have been hardly any forfeits this season as a result of strong recruitment.

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80 years of surf life saving WONTHAGGI Life Saving Club celebrated its 80th anniversary over the weekend.

To mark the occasion, current and past members of the club enjoyed a dinner at the club’s hall on Saturday night. Around 150 people came together to relive the past though memorabilia, enjoy live music and swap stories about the club’s history. “It was an excellent night. We all learned more about how our club was built and everyone had a great time,” club president Mark Scott said. “Members from other clubs joined us, and we appreciated their support. It was a great way to round off a busy season.” On Sunday, the Club Championships were held. Club members from U6s to Masters competed in activities such as relays, flags, run and wade, board relays, and swim relays to determine the group champions. The championships bought the Nippers program to an end, and the Bronze camp began afterwards. Following the championships, a presentation and a barbecue were held. “The 80th helped draw back our old members who are interested in getting involved. Our push for new facilities has also helped,” Mr Scott said. “Reports recently showed our facilities are borderline condemned, so there’s work to be done. In February we will start our barbecue shelter (a community project with volunteers, Bass Coast Shire Council and local businesses).” Works are also planned to formalise the car park.

Get together: past and present members of the Wonthaggi Life Saving Club gathered at the beach to enjoy the Club Championships on Sunday. This rounded off the club’s 80th anniversary. Sprint: Wonthaggi Life Saving Club nipper Kahlia De Costa competed in the relay event during the Club Championships.

Lots of fun: Wonthaggi Life Saving Club’s Kahlia De Costa, Charlotte Fairbrother and Kiara Ryan enjoyed the Club Championships on Sunday.

Life members: Wonthaggi Life Saving Club’s Helen Gladstone and Joan Scott came out to watch the Club Championships at Wonthaggi Life Saving Club on Sunday.

Clements takes on international challenge INVERLOCH’S Jack Clements impressed tennis fans at the qualifying rounds of the Traralgon Junior International last week.

The qualifying rounds took place over Thursday and Friday. In an upset, Jack defeated Leopold Zima from Germany in the first qualifying round 6-4, 6-3. Zima worked up an early lead in the first set, but Jack stayed strong to level the score and ultimately claim the

win. He was beaten in the second qualifying round by France’s Jaimee Floyd Angele 6-4, 6-2. The game was interrupted by rain delays, but Jack did well to keep up the pressure. Although this ended his run, Jack and his family are extremely proud of this result. Angele had previously beaten the number one player in the world and Jack put up a strong contest against him. Jack’s father Shane said the young player was “over the moon” with his first qualifying win. The winners of the qualifiers go through to the main draw. The tournament is a gateway to the Australian Open, and greats such as Nick Kyrgios competed in the tournament in previous years. This may not be the end for Jack, as he could be in with a chance to secure a wildcard spot for the Australian Open.

Happy anniversary: a cake was cut to mark Wonthaggi Life Saving Club’s 80th anniversary on Saturday night.

Great result: Inverloch’s Jack Clements came away with an excellent result in the Tr- Qualifier: Inverloch’s Jack Clements won Life Saving Club, plus members of aralgon Junior International, making through his first qualifying round in the Traralgon Ju- Support: past and current members of the Wonthaggi th celebration last Saturday night. neighbouring surf life saving clubs, enjoyed the 80 to the second qualifier. nior International.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018 - PAGE 47

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Aussie cricket coach visits IN the wake of Australia’s Ashes victory, Australian cricket coach Darren Lehmann made the trip to Leongatha to celebrate with local cricketers. Together with former local and AFL football great Stuart Wigney and current Hawthorn captain Jarryd Roughead, Lehmann took part ownership of Leongatha’s McCartin’s Hotel. He travelled to Leongatha last Tuesday and Wednesday for his first visit to the establishment. “It’s beautiful, and it was great to meet the local people,” he said. On Tuesday afternoon, Lehmann met with members of Town and Koonwarra/LRSL cricket clubs. These clubs are sponsored by McCartin’s Hotel. Lehmann said the clubs approached Wigney and Roughead for sponsorship, and they were more than happy to support the local teams. “It’s important to support clubs at a grassroots level; it helps to give everyone a chance to be involved,” he said. Lehmann is a big support of junior cricket, and believes the game needs to be kept fast and exciting to keep children interested and outdoors. “T20 and the Big Bash have helped with that; and it always helps when the Aussies win. We want them to follow our cricketers like Steve Smith, David Warner, and really develop an interest,” he said. Lehmann said he is also a fan of women’s cricket, which he believes is getting bigger and better. The coach said the support from all Australians during the Ashes series was second to none, and he had enjoyed celebrating the victory with local fans of the game. Lehmann said he was feeling relaxed after the big win. As well as meeting local cricketers, he enjoyed a round of golf at Leongatha Golf Club on Wednesday morning. “If I get the chance, I’d like to spend more time in Leongatha. When you’re on the road almost 365 days a year, it’s a good place to relax. It’s certainly somewhere I’d like to come back to,” he said. Lehmann said he would also be following Town and Koonwarra/LRSL cricket clubs as they enter the business end of the 2017/18 season.

Co-ownership: former local and AFL football player Stuart Wigney and Australia cricket coach Darren Lehmann enjoyed a beer out front of McCartin’s Hotel on Tuesday. Wigney and Lehmann – along with Hawthorn captain Jarryd Roughead – took ownership of the business late last year.

Sponsorship: Ken Scrimshaw (Koonwarra/LRSL), John Schelling (Town), Nick Arnup (Koonwarra/LRSL) and Steve Fixter (Town) had the opportunity to thank Darren Lehmann and Stuart Wigney for supporting their cricket clubs last Tuesday.

On the green: Australian cricket coach Darren Lehmann (second left) finished off his visit to Leongatha with a round of golf at Leongatha Golf Club with Michael Thomas, Stuart Wigney and Greg Welsford.

Meet and greet: from left, Australian cricket coach Darren Lehmann enjoyed meeting local cricket club members last Tuesday, including Sean Parker, Len Buckland, Jen Buckland and John Manicaro from Koonwarra/LRSL Cricket Club.

Compete in the pool SOUTH Gippsland Bass Swimming Club offers accredited squad swimming for all ages and abilities, and summer is a perfect time to give it a try. The club has reached record membership numbers in recent months with now 253 registered Swimming Victoria members. It offers training opportunities at both the Wonthaggi Aquatic Centre and Leongatha Splash facility on most days of the week. Once a member with the club, you can compete in the local South Gippsland Swimming Association meets for Wonthaggi or Leongatha, which are held at the local pools across summer and are lots of fun. The members also compete as part of the Gippsland Swimming Competition, with meets

held at Gippsland facilities including the new Warragul Outdoor Pool. There is an encouragement meet being held at Korumburra on February 10. Many local swimmers have also moved on to achieve great success at both a state and national level after working with experienced coaches. Some of the swimmers’ parents have joined the club and are competing in the local Gippsland competitions, and have the opportunity to train with other parents and receive tips from the coach. The children love to see the adults have a go. Head coach Dylan Muir is always happy to chat with new members and he can be reached on Ready to go: in the second week of the VICSWIM program, the young swimmers couldn’t 0400 032 734. wait to get back in the water. They are pictured with swim instructors Phoebe Finlay and For more information, find the club on Face- Emilie Harris. Read more on page 48. book or its website http://sgbswimclub.com.au/.

Lots of fun: members of South Gippsland Bass Swimming Club welcome all new members to the squad.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Safe to swim VICSWIM is helping children increase their confidence at the beach.

With the aim of keeping children safe in the ocean, the program teaches children how to be calm in a dangerous situation and how to read the current. The program has been running at Anderson Inlet, Inverloch, since the start of January. The program will end at the end of this week. In that time, children who had little confidence at the beach at the beginning of the program have developed the ability to swim out to buoys and sand bars with direction from their instructors. “We live in a coastal community, and it is important that children develop these skills to ensure they are safe at the beach,” VICSWIM instructor Phoebe Finlay said. “As teenagers, they may want to hang out at the beach with their friends, and this program aims to make sure they feel completely safe. There have been too many drownings in the area, so these skills need to be taught.” The Inlet has a strong current, giving VICSWIM instructors the opportunity to talk to children about the conditions and how currents are similar to rips. “We teach them not to panic, and not to swim against the current and tire themselves out. We have a lot of fun as well, and the children love

it,” Phoebe said. “There’s been a lot of good development this year. Some of the children were quite timid to start off with because they are used to swimming in pools. Even in the first week they were doing things on Friday that they never would have attempted on Monday, like swimming out into deep water.” The program also had children running through scenarios, like what would happen if they ran into trouble on a boat. In preparedness, the children practice putting on life jackets – which they wear for the entirety of the program – and how to stay warm when entering the cold ocean. Phoebe said parents had been surprised and happy about the benefits of VICSWIM. Parents were offered the opportunity to join in the program, especially to support the younger swimmers. “It’s all about survival and developing confidence. These skills will mean they can just go out and have fun at the beach, but know how to deal with any incidents that may happen,” she said. VICSWIM still run programs in pools in local locations like Korumburra, Mirboo North and New skills: from left, swimmers Adrian Abreu, Riley Collins, Ebony Collins and Amalia Phillip Island. The program will return next year, with regis- Loughran learned how to stay safe at the beach after participating in the VICSWIM holiday trations opening around October. program with instructor Phoebe Finlay.

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