The Great Southern Star - January 3, 2018 by The Great Southern Star

www.thestar.com.au WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2018 - $1.50

Rubbish bin stink By Brad Lester THE Inverloch community is calling on Bass Coast Shire Council to collect landfill bins weekly during the holiday season, to avoid smelly, overlowded bins around town.

SUMMER crowds have been soaking up the beauty of South Gippslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beaches and among them were Sarah Gunia (left) from Korumburra and Elora Noble from Leongatha. With dog Chip, they enjoyed Inverlochâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main surf beach recently.

tenants, and as a result, some people are dumping landfill waste in recycling bins. Adam Leys, a director at Stockdale and Leggo, Inverloch, is frustrated after predicting the lack of summer collection would

cause problems and telling council so numerous times. His agency arranges the letting of holiday houses to the visitors whose business is crucial to Inverlochâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy. Continued on page 4.

Landfill bins are only collected fortnightly in Inverloch and broader Bass Coast after a new three bin system was introduced in 2017. Landfill bins will be collected in Inverloch today (Wednesday), but were not last week, despite an influx of holidaymakers to the area, and Christmas and New Year festivities resulting in bins filling quickly and in some cases, overflowing. Holiday home tenants Simple fix: Inverloch resident Margaret Pope, and are arriving to find land- many others in Inverloch, are calling on Bass Coast fill bins already full with Shire Council to collect landfill bins weekly during the rubbish left by previous

holiday season to cater for the influx of holidaymakers.

GRUESOME FIND

By Jessica Anstice

A HUMAN skeleton was found at Shallow Inlet at Sandy Point on Christmas Day. A person snorkelling around 2pm observed

the skeleton partially buried in the sand several metres underwater and approximately 25 metres from shore. A police officer from Foster attended the scene and confirmed the skeleton was that of a human after diving into the water himself.

While waiting for police search and rescue officers to arrive from Melbourne, the policeman from Foster marked the location for police divers using a water bottle and a rock tied to either end of a rope. Police divers retrieved the skeleton. Police said there was no evidence of the mat-

ter being suspicious and said the body had been in the water for at least six months as it was covered in algae. The area has been examined by police and the remains were taken to the Coroners Court to be forensically tested.

Streaker spoils Inverloch fireworks

Two drownings at Cape Woolami

Leongatha South crash claims life

PAGE 3

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PAGE 2 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 3

Streaker halts fireworks A LEONGATHA father may face charges after he stripped and ran naked across Inverloch Recreation Reserve in the middle of fireworks on New Year’s Eve. A large crowd, including many families with children, had gathered at the reserve to enjoy the annual fireworks display but received a show of another kind when the man embarked on a nudie dash in front of the audience. He was arrested by police for offensive behaviour, being drunk and possessing drugs,

which were found in his clothes. Police said the man denied the drugs were his and claimed the drugs were planted in his clothing after he stripped. Police apprehended the man and he was taken to Inverloch Police Station and then the cells at Wonthaggi to sober up. The man, aged in his thirties, was released pending summons to court. The fireworks resumed after the streaker was arrested, but many people mistakenly thought the fireworks was a brief display and had already left.

Also at Inverloch on New Year’s Eve, a 20 year old Churchill woman received a penalty notice of $634 for being drunk in a public place

after being found unconscious. Police reported New Year’s Eve revellers were generally well behaved.

Young life lost FAMILY and friends are mourning the loss of a Leongatha woman killed in a car crash at Leongatha South on Friday evening.

Police said the 30 year old’s vehicle collided with a tree at the intersection of Bass Highway and Koonwarra-Inverloch Road at 5.48pm. Traffic was reduced to one lane on the high-

way for four hours while emergency services attended to the incident. Police from Bass Coast Highway Patrol are investigating. They were joined at the scene by police from Inverloch, Meeniyan and Koonwarra. CFA and SES units also attended. Seven people died on roads in Bass Coast and South Gippsland shires in 2017: four in South Gippsland and three in Bass Coast.

Celebration: from left, Leongatha ladies Rachel Cameron, Prue Holt, Tanya Privitera, Kate Dean, Melissa Cameron, Bec Dowel, Jesse Jarvis and Rachelle Town looked stunning at the Stony Creek races on Saturday to celebrate Melissa’s birthday. Read the report on page 39.

Two drownings within a week TWO swimmers have drowned at Woolamai Beach on Phillip Island in the past week. The most recent death was that of a 47 year old Mitcham man on Monday. The man was seen in difficulty shortly before 5pm but rescue attempts to reach him where unsuccessful. He was located dead about 20 minutes later. A statement on Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club’s Facebook page said, “Our members have responded professionally and respectfully.

“Thank you to the members involved in the incident. Our support and LSV’s (Life Saving Victoria) support will continue in the coming days, weeks and months. “Please keep the family of the deceased and our members in your thoughts.” Police will prepare a report for the Coroner. The latest incident followed the death of a 28 year old man from Lalor on Christmas Day. At approximately 5.30pm, he began to struggle in the rough conditions. Local surfers came to his aid but were unable save him and he was taken out to sea by the strong currents.

Dumping disgrace: Leongatha Salvation Army volunteer Bernadette Grimes salvaged items of worth from a pile of rubbish dumped at the Lifeline Charity bin in the IGA carpark, Burglars hit cricket club She was treated at the scene and then flown Leongatha, yesterday (Tuesday). IMPERIALS Cricket Club in Leongatha was the by air ambulance helicopter to Monash Medical target of burglars between December 17 and 29, Centre, Melbourne, in a serious condition. 2017. Thieves stole cricket bats and balls, as well as baseballs, from a storage container at the Imperials’ ground at Leongatha Secondary College, Nerrena Road. The offenders also smashed pickets on a fence. The theft was valued at $500. and littering the IGA carpark, creating a lot of Anyone with information is urged to contact attention from disgusted shoppers yesterday Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Leongatha (Tuesday). One Leongatha lady said the pile was much Police on 5662 2285. bigger on the weekend and another lady said she Burnouts fail to impress police saw a load of electrical appliances, including old LAST year did not end well for a Cranbourne man TER1830078 vacuum cleaners, dumped there on the weekend. after he performed burnouts in front of police at On Tuesday, Bernadette Grimes, a volunteer Poowong on New Year’s Eve, 2017. for the Leongatha Salvation Army, saw a man The 24 year old probationary driver subsecollecting records from the piles of rubbish and quently failed a breath test, had his vehicle imtold the man there is usually a $2 charge for pounded and will now face court for drink driving, records at the shop, so the man gave her the careless driving and intentional loss of traction. money that she will donate to charity. Woman airlifted She said it was upsetting seeing people using A WOMAN was airlifted from Inverloch on the bins as a dumping ground. “People don’t want to pay tip fees,” she Monday to receive urgent care for a medical condition. suggested. Paramedics were called to a report of a woman Ms Grimes said if the weather changes and with a medical condition in Inverloch at 8.18am. rain arrives, volunteers will have a bigger mess to clean up.

Dumping on charities a disgrace in Leongatha By Helen Bowering LEONGATHA resident Bernadette Grimes is just one local resident who is disgusted at the amount of rubbish being dumped at the Lifeline charity bin in the IGA carpark in Leongatha.

Lazy people are dumping loads of household rubbish at charity bins clearly marked and designed for donations of clothing, personal items and goods that could be used to help the poor and needy. Instead of doing something good for the community and the disadvantaged, some people who cannot be bothered putting their rubbish in a wheelie bin or driving to the tip are using the donation bins as their own personal rubbish tip. Piles of rubbish were spilling out of the bins

Leongatha Chemist on Duty

TERRY WHITE CHEMIST THIS SUNDAY 10am - 1pm

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Bus moves beachgoers PARKING at the Venus Bay surf beach isn’t a problem for those using the free summer beach shuttle service. Since 2012, the Venus Bay Community Centre has provided a free summer beach shuttle service for 17 days over summer. This year the shuttle service will run between 11am and 5pm every day until January 12. The bus travels from the community centre on Can-

terbury Road, out to the entrance into Venus Bay on Jupiter Boulevard and back to Venus Bay’s Beach One. Beachgoers are able to hail the bus and the driver will stop on demand. “During the ﬁrst year we had 220 people use the service and last year we had 2359 people use it,” South Gippsland Shire Councillor Alyson Skinner said. She is also community centre coordinator. The bus was developed in response to community concerns about parking congestion over the peak visitor season. The shuttle bus is funded by the Venus Bay Community Centre’s op shop.

Beach time: from left, Isabelle Litchﬁeld, South Gippsland Shire Councillor Alyson Skinner, Patrick Tincknell and Taylor, Jordan and Madeline Litchﬁeld hitched a free ride on the Venus Bay community summer beach bus on Thursday.

Rubbish stink mars holidays Continued from page 1. “It’s already causing major problems,” Mr Leys said. “Tenants are paying big sums of money to stay here for a week and the least they expect is to have their rubbish collected. “People on holidays are not interested in learning about bin services. They are going to fill up the bin quickly at this time of year.” Mr Leys said council was not receptive to his concerns and told him holiday house tenants should take their rubbish to the tip or landlords should pay private contractors to collect the landfill waste, despite landlords already paying rates for such a service. Some landlords are turning to private contractors to alleviate tenants’ rubbish woes. Mr Leys said council needed to arrange only two extra landfill bin pickups during the summer holidays. “It does not make sense not to do it,” he said. “You have got to acknowledge that it’s a big holiday destination. It’s a huge influx of people and they make more waste than they would at home. “The tenants are saying it’s not good enough.” Mr Leys said tenants were disposing of rubbish in any bin they could find, including recycling bins. “It’s got to be reconsidered for next year. It’s just a crazy situation at the moment. I’m happy to have it in place throughout the rest of the year but for four weeks of the year it’s got to change,” he said.

Inverloch resident Margaret Pope said landfill bins should be collected weekly at this time of year, as are recycling bins. “All the way down Cuttriss Street people had their landfill bins out and they would be out all week,” she said. “The problem is that if it’s windy, the bins are going to get knocked over and apart from that, it looks bad. “There are full bins sitting around holiday lets. It’s disgusting.” Felicity Sist, council’s general manager infrastructure and environment, said council had no plans to review the bin system. “The bin audits we undertook in the lead up to the introduction of our three bin system showed the organic content of our garbage bins over summer was as high as 69 percent,” she said. “While it may take some sorting of recycling and organics, a fortnightly waste collection should be sufficient over the summer period. “The organic material, which can get a bit smelly, will still be collected weekly through the organics bin. Making sure bin lids are closed and placing bins in a shaded area will help reduce odours.” Ms Sist said council worked with holiday home owners and letting agencies to help with the introduction of the three bin system. “Most have managed the change very successfully. Holiday homes often require additional waste management as part of their business model. As with any business, some overhead costs need to be managed by the owner/operator and waste management is one of these services,” she said.

“Council is able to provide upgrades to landﬁll bins, and additional recycling and organics bins to such properties on a long term basis, however we recommend holiday home owners work with commercial providers for short term waste management issues.” Ms Sist said council provided information to help residents and visitors adjust to the new three bin system. “This includes the fridge magnet calendar which was delivered with the new set of bins, along with stickers, ﬂyers and posters,” she said. ► Read Margaret Pope’s letter about rubbish concerns on page 12.

Woman fined

A FOSTER woman was caught by police travelling in an unregistered motor vehicle at 6.09pm on Wednesday, December 27. She received a $793 ﬁne.

Prom crash

NO ONE was injured after a vehicle rolled at Wilsons Promontory National Park last Thursday. Two Parks Victoria rangers attended and the incident was resolved quickly by police and CFA.

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” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 5

Police hunt arsonist

By Jessica Anstice and Brad Lester

POLICE are searching for an arsonist believed to have caused one of two house fires in the same Wonthaggi street in the same week. Both blazes occurred in McKenzie Street and no one was injured, although one house sustained significant damage. A lit object was thrown through the kitchen window of one home while the occupants were away between December 24, 2017 and January 1, 2018. A tea towel caught fire and the flames fizzled out. Detectives from Bass Coast Criminal Investigation Unit are looking into the incident. On Christmas Eve 2017, fire damaged another house, also in McKenzie Street. The house was home to 11 people. Residents of the house noticed smoke coming from the front bedroom at 11am. Eight people were inside the house at the time and escaped without injury. The fire destroyed the front bedroom. The rest of the house was filled with smoke and water damage. Police believe the fire was not suspicious and are still investigating. Bass Coast Shire Council assisted the residents with food, accommodation and clothing.

Drug bust

NEARLY 40 grams of ice, 13 cannabis plants and an unregistered firearm were found at an address in Wonthaggi. Police from the Bass Coast Tasking Unit executed a search warrant on Christmas Eve. As a result of the bust, five offenders were arrested and processed.

Two of the offenders were remanded in custody over the Christmas break and will face court in Morwell today (Wednesday).

False cash

A FAKE $20 note was handed into the Foster Police Station recently. Police are reminding everyone to be aware of counterfeit cash.

Buckle up

A PASSENGER was charged $317 for not wearing a seatbelt on Wednesday, December 27. The 22 year old Beaconsfield man was in a car travelling on Sandy Point Road in Sandy Point at 10am when intercepted by Foster Police.

Speedsters nabbed

A MAN was charged $317 and received three demerit points for speeding on Meeniyan Prom- Beach fun: Carlos and Casta Chong visit Venus Bay two or three times per year to harvest ontory Road in Foster. pipis. The 32 year old man from Manor Lakes was travelling between 15km/h and 25km/h over the 100km/h speed limit around 2pm on Christmas Eve. Around the same time on the same road, a 57 By Brad Lester and Jessica Anstice year old man from Foster was caught travelling 109km/h in the 100km/h zone. He was charged PIPIS from Venus Bay are appealing to $198 and received one demerit point. Shortly after, a 25 year old Yanakie woman seafood lovers, with the busy summer was also found to be travelling at 109km/h. She pipi harvest season now underway. was charged $198 and received one demerit According to the Victorian Fisheries Aupoint. thority, early indications are that pipi numbers

Pipis on the menu

Fast Christmas

at Venus Bay are in great shape and many fishers are having fun doing the ‘pipi shuffle’. “Our officers have conducted a number of routine inspections and we will continue to patrol the beaches over the coming months,” a spokesperson said. “Compliance rates are high and consistently over 90 percent. A total of two penalty notices have been issued recently for exceeding catch limits. The catch limit is two litres per person.” Venus Bay’s pipis are now safe to eat after an algal outbreak last year. “We will continue to monitor the area for naturally occurring biotoxins and provide further updates over summer,” the spokesperson said. Pipi collector Carlos Chong visited Venus Bay last Thursday to harvest the seafood. “We usually come down to Venus Bay two or three times a year to collect pipis,” he said. “We’ve had good luck this year finding them but we don’t take home much, only just enough for the children.” A University of Melbourne study of the Festive bub: Ravi Ambler was born to Venus Bay pipi population continues and Ashleigh Melhuish and Ben Ambler, and is more details are expected to be released early this year. with mum and sisters Layla and Lexi. A 24 YEAR old Bannockburn man was fined $317 and received three demerit points for travelling between 10km/h and 15km/h over the 100km/h speed limit on the South Gippsland Highway in Toora at 12.24pm on Christmas Day. At 1.18pm, a 30 year old Forest Hill man received a $317 fine and three demerit points for travelling 10km/h to 15km/h over the 100km/h speed limit on the same road.

Born on Christmas Day RAVI Jacks J k Ambler A bl waited i d ffor hi his sisters, i Layla, eight, and Lexi, two, to open their presents from Santa, arriving at 11.59am, just in time for Christmas lunch. Ravi is a son for Ben Ambler and Ashleigh Melhuish of Phillip Island. Dr Rick Whitehouse and midwives Ruth Harvey and Chantelle Noonan were on hand for this special Christmas delivery. Despite an expected January due date, Ashleigh’s family, including Ravi’s father Ben, had taken bets that he would arrive on Christmas Day. Ashleigh was not convinced but Ravi had other ideas. Ashleigh and Ben were delighted with their surprise Christmas present, and could not be happier with the care they have received from Bass Coast Health maternity staff.

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Party atmosphere: Jennifer Morrison and other fans immerse themselves in the moment at Dancing fun: Matilda Hanily and friends enjoys the musical spectacular that was Inverloch Inverloch Sounds of Summer on Friday. Photo: Leo Edwards, Inverloch 3996. Sounds of Summer on Friday. Photo: Leo Edwards, Inverloch 3996.

Fans love Sounds of Summer WOW, Inverloch Sounds of Summer 2017 was without a doubt a success, attracting local residents and visitors to the seaside town for a superb concert on Friday.

The inclement weather did nothing to deter the enthusiasm or spirit of the large crowd, much to the relief of festival director Kate Adkins. “To see people flocking in, even with the rain, will be something we will always remember and be thankful for,” she said. “The atmosphere was something to behold, with a crowd of all ages and walks of life. Even though we didn’t quite reach our target again this year, we still had nearly 2500 people and close to 3000 when including staff, vendors, contractors and volunteers, and they all had the time of their lives and helped our chosen charity, Scleroderma

Victoria.” The food village was bustling with patrons enjoying a vast array of festival fare: Mexican, Japanese, Vietnamese and everything in between. “Quite a few of our food vendors sold out by the end of the night, which was an incredible result. The massage and local handmade/design stalls, which were new to Sounds of Summer this year, proved to be a big hit and added to the festival vibe. Thirty-four pre-booked private marquees also added to the great atmosphere,” Mrs Adkins said. “We loved our Sounds of Summer Bar, a marquee which was sponsored by Over the Top Events. It looked amazing and was a very popular place throughout the night. Local wineries Dirty 3 and Lucinda Estate had people lining up ready to sample their award winning wines. InverlochKongwak Football Netball Club also had a great

Making music: Ross Wilson woos music fans at Inverloch Sounds of Summer on Friday evening. Photo: Leo Edwards, Inverloch 3996.

night selling beer and spirits for the event. “Our MC, local 3MFM radio host Shana Bremner, did an incredible job of taking on the role of MC. Shana is a huge music fan and supporter of local events, and we are so grateful she agreed to do this for us.” The music of course brought people out in droves and did not disappoint. Starting with an amazing local lineup of Mat Morgan and Bed of Embers, followed by young talented Famous Will, people could feel the momentum building for the big drawcards. Wendy Matthews, with her crystal clear vocals and soulful sound, had many out of their seats and dancing in the misty rain. “It was apparent early that nothing would dampen the beautiful vibe and spirit of this well orchestrated event,” Mrs Adkins said. The distinctive and familiar sounds of Glenn Shorrock ensured the dancing continued without the rain, while the crowd enjoyed his many hits and everyone was enamoured by his pure talent and voice. “It was then time to Eagle Rock with Daddy Cool himself, Ross Wilson. His vast appeal had everyone on their feet and rocking along,” Mrs Adkins said. The music side of the event was wrapped up with the incredible Sol Nation. Their unique music, a beautifully crafted mix of reggae, funk and Latino, was colourful and exuberant, which flowed out into audience creating such a fun and electric vibe. The children were kept entertained with an Adventure Park hosting laser tag, face painting and plenty to keep the little ones amused. “The messages and emails of many happy patrons and vendors have been overwhelming. A lot of time, love and passion goes into running Sounds of Summer, so to see families and friends having lots of fun has brought us so much joy,” Mrs Adkins said. Professional images from Leo Edwards of Inverloch 3996 will be on the festival website in the coming days. “We are again thankful to our major supporter,

Reason to smile: Mick and Kate Adkins, directors of Inverloch Sounds of Summer, toast the event’s success on Friday. Photo: Leo Edwards, Inverloch 3996. Inverloch and District Community Bank Branch of Bendigo bank and all of our sponsors for supporting this event as without them we simply could not run,” Mrs Adkins said. “Our family and friends, thank you from the bottom of our hearts, working for us, running here and there, picking up rubbish the next day and just for your all round support. “We are so blessed to have a region filled with amazing businesses and creative talents. We look forward to showcasing them again in 2018. Save the date everyone; Inverloch Sounds of Summer will be held on Saturday, December 29 and is set to be bigger and better than ever.”

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 7

Festival fans dance as New Year rolls in

MORE than 2500 good vibing music lovers gathered in the rolling hills of Krowera to bring in the New Year at NYE on the Hill Festival over the weekend.

Marine patrol POLICE are urging boaters to obey safety and licensing rules after a swoop at Inverloch on Friday. Inverloch and water police joined officers from Transport Safety Victoria at the Inverloch boat ramp on Friday to inspect boats, jetskis and kayaks. Water police also patrolled Anderson Inlet and conducted inspections on the water. People and vessels were inspected for licensing, registration and safety equipment compliance. Water police checked 62 boats, 18 jetskis and 10 kayaks, and issued 13 penalty notices for offences including insufficient lifejackets, expired flares, unregistered boats and unlicensed users. “Police are asking all boat and marine vessel users to ensure they have adequate and correct safety gear on board prior to launching, for the ongoing safety of our waterways,” Sergeant Adrian Condron of Inverloch Police said. Police will conduct further marine safety operations over the holidays. Expired flares can be left at police stations.

With more than 30 amazing bands including Ball Park Music, Regurgitator, The Teskey Brothers, Dean Lewis and Gretta Ray, a great time was had by all. Festival organisers Aidan and Rhett McLaren would love to thank all those who attended and all those who worked/volunteered on the event and for Helicopter in town making it one of the best Hills’ AN Air Ambulance helicopter was called to gatherings yet. Korumburra RoLeongatha on New Year’s Eve, 2017 to deal with tary Club catered at the festival. a medical emergency. Tickets are now on sale for Given the matter was a mental health issue, The Hills Are Alive Festival’s 10 Year Anniversary which takes Party time: festival-goers loved the NYE on the Hill Festival at Krowera over the weekend. Photo by Ambulance Victoria was unable to disclose further details. Lauren Murphy. place from March 23 to 25.

Water bills to increase

By Brad Lester

HOUSEHOLD water bills could rise by $71 a year under a proposal by South Gippsland Water. The average residential owner occupier water bill for 2018-19 would be $1049 before inflation. The plan still needs approval by the independent regulator, the Essential Services Commission, and would take effect from July 1, 2018. Business bills are tipped to increase from $36 to $90 per bill. The changes are due to South Gippsland Water proposing to increase volumetric charges and decrease fixed charges to better reflect the costs of providing water. In 2022-23, the annual residential bill is forecast to be $1200. South Gippsland Water’s submission stated its price structure was developed in consultation with customers and was in line with customers’

preference for a user pays price rise. The submission stated, “The impact to businesses of the waste water volumetric model are vastly different, eg a small motel could be better off by $2000 whilst a large hotel could be worse off by $30,000 per annum. “Major customers will pay more due to the combined impact of a higher volumetric rate and price increase. “The two largest major customers will pay an additional $186,000 over the pricing period, with change to trade waste.” Those customers are Murray Goulburn, Leongatha and Burra Foods, Korumburra. South Gippsland Water proposes to undertake further analysis to identify vulnerable customers and undertake further engagement before implementing change. In the last 10 years, South Gippsland Water’s average residential tariffs have become among the cheapest in rural Victoria. Over the next five years, South Gippsland Water will spend:

• $7.6 million to complete stage one of the Lance Creek Water Connection Project, $3.1m for treatment plant renewals and $2.1m for disinfection upgrades; • $5m on renewing a five kilometre transfer main from Leongatha’s number one reservoir to the water treatment plant; • sewer system expansion projects: $6.4m for Wonthaggi and $4.2m for Inverloch; renewal projects: $1.8m for Yarram pump station and $1.7m for Wonthaggi pump station; • $2.3m on Wonthaggi wastewater treatment plant expansion and $2.7m on renewals; • $1.5m in hydraulic modeling and network master planning to respond to climate variability and regional growth; •$2.6m for a carbon emissions reduction program to reduce emissions by 15 percent by 2025; • $2.2m in water distribution main renewals and $5m to renew raw water transfer mains; and • $4.7m to renew water mains and $4.3m to renew sewer mains.

Stolen boat: just before 7pm on Boxing Day, 2017, the boat and trailer depicted was stolen from a boat storage yard in Cowes.

Boat theft A BOAT and trailer was stolen from a boat storage yard in Cowes at around 7pm on Boxing Day, 2017. The offenders involved possibly used a white Holden Apollo with no registration plates. Police are seeking assistance from the public to help locate the boat and identify the occupants of the vehicle. Any information can be given to Leading Senior Constable Carlson at the Cowes Police Station on 5678 5500.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Foster parties THE recent Foster street party not only commemorated the festive season, but also the opening of the town’s streetscape works.

The party was held by the Foster Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, December 23 to thank people who shop in the town. Many retailers extended trading hours for the event and there was a tropical island jumping castle, balloon twisting, face painting and a space ball.

Just kidding: Tracel Devereux from the Community College Gippsland is a volunteer at the Leongatha Farmers Market, and on Saturday, December 23, she was ably assisted by Melly the goat.

Farmers market meets shopping needs

Great day: from left, Foster locals Kate Lemchens, Meg Rathjen and Macey McGlead enjoyed the Christmas street party held in Foster on Saturday, December 23.

Having a ball: Alex White from Foster and Abbey and Willow Best from Port Franklin were waiting to have a turn on the space ball at the Foster Christmas street party, held on Saturday, December 23.

Firm friends: Tayissa Walsh from Leongatha and Tynisha Lim from Foster had a ball hanging out at the street party, held in Foster on Saturday, Decem- THE Leongatha Farmers Market pre Christmas ber 23. event on Saturday, December 23 was a popular

place to be for all that last minute shopping.

Visitors were able to enjoy a visit from Santa himself, as well as view plenty of local stalls, live music, face painting, and some were lucky enough to give baby goat Melly a cuddle. The market is held in the grounds of Community College Gippsland’s Leongatha campus off Howard Street, on the fourth Saturday of each month.

Tasty treat: visiting their grandpa in Foster for Christmas were Jude and Zach Liversidge from Canberra. While in town, they checked out the street party, held on Saturday, December 23.

Fun faces: Isabel Lander from Pretty Beach in New South Wales had her face beautifully decorated by Dumbalk’s Karen Lawson at the Christmas Leongatha Farmers Market held on Saturday, December 23.

MP thanks volunteers GIPPSLAND South MLA Danny O’Brien used the final 2017 sitting of State Parliament to thank emergency service workers and volunteers ahead of the busy summer season.

Mr O’Brien told Parliament that while many people relax and enjoy the holidays, we should spare a thought for emergency services staff who are working to keep us safe. “As we head into the summer holiday period, I would like to thank in advance all those that will work to keep us safe over summer, especially our emergency services workers, medical and nursing staff and of course the many wonderful volunteers who give so tirelessly for their communities,” he said. “This includes our CFA, ambulance and SES volunteers and of course on the beaches, the great work of our surf lifesavers – the many people young and not-so-young who patrol the beaches and keep them safe.

“I thank you in advance on behalf of all the people of Gippsland South for the selfless work you do.” Mr O’Brien is also urging Gippslanders to play it safe by the water this summer. “As the weather warms up many of us will be looking to cool off in the water, whether it is a pool, creek, river or the beach,” he said. “Our surf lifesavers do an amazing job, but they need your help, so please listen to their advice, always swim between the flags, never swim alone and never swim when intoxicated. “We are fortunate to have so many wonderful beaches and waterways throughout Gippsland South to be enjoyed this summer including Wilsons Promontory, Venus Bay, Walkerville, Sandy Point, Woodside, Seaspray, Paradise Beach, Golden Beach and Loch Sport. “There’s a lot to enjoy throughout Gippsland over the summer, please enjoy it responsibly.” For more information about water safety visit www.watersafety. vic.gov.au.

Good on you: Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien has thanked emergency service volunteers for their work. He is with Leongatha SES members, from left, Neil Warren, Rose Burns and Tony Lindhard.

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 9

Castle building: from left, Ella Granger, Lily Black, William Black, Kate Granger and, front, Max Granger enjoyed their time at Inverloch’s surf beach building sand castles and digging holes.

Inverloch lures tourists By Jessica Anstice

NEW data from Wotif.com reveals accommodation searches for Inverloch over the Christmas and New Year holiday period are up nearly 110 percent, Parks Victoria anticipates Wilsons Prom will when compared to 2016.

Visitors enjoy the Prom By Tayla Kershaw THOUSANDS of people descended on Wilsons Promontory to enjoy Christmas festivities over the last week. The entrance station recorded 850 day visitors on Christmas Day, 1027 on Boxing Day, and 1061 in the 36 degree heat on December 27. Between December 26 and 29, there were 567 bookings at Tidal River, and 1255 overnight hikers between December 25 and 29. Parks Victoria noted a change in demographic represented at the Prom. “We are seeing many different cultures getting out and travelling with large families,” Parks Victoria’s Melanie McVey-DiLazzaro said. “Usually visitors come down and make day trips, but more are deciding to stay and camp out, which is lovely to see at the Prom.”

remain a busy hotspot through Labour Day and Easter, particularly with a short school term ahead. “There are so many long weekends during this school term (including Anzac Day, Labour Day and Easter) so visitation will be nice and stable,” Ms McVey-DiLazzaro said. “Year on year, the ballot booking is completely full, so what we are seeing is pretty normal. It’s great for the local businesses and visitors love the environment.” This week, Parks Victoria will have its Junior Ranger program. The activities feature a rockpool ramble, a treasure hunt, and beachcombing. While the activities are free for children between six and 12 years old, bookings are essential.

Fire risk crackdown By Brad Lester SOUTH Gippslanders had until December 26, 2017 to prepare their properties for the fire season. South Gippsland Shire Council’s local laws team inspected 1767 properties and issued 829 fire prevention notices, down from the 948 notices issued last year. Local laws coordinator Bruce Gardiner said council staff inspected properties for excessive fuel loads that may pose a risk to life or property from the threat of fire. People who fail to follow council notices to clean up will be asked to pay the costs of council engaging contractors to undertake the necessary works. “Non-compliance with a fire prevention notice attracts an on-the-spot fine of 10 penalty units ($1580). Court imposed sanctions are 120 penalty units (almost $19,000) or imprisonment for 12 months or both,” Mr Gardiner said. Claire Smith, Bass Coast Shire Council’s manager community health and wellbeing, said

fire poses a threat to life and property. “Fire prevention notices focus on the removal of fine fuels - long dry grass, twigs, sticks and fallen branches - and weed species,” she said. Any property in a built up area found to have grass exceeding 300mm may be subject to infringements or have the matter referred to the Magistrates’ Court. Property owners found to have grass exceeding 300mm will be issued with a Local Law Notice to Comply to cut the grass within 21 days. The penalty for failing to comply with a notice is $500. If fire prevention notice directions have not been carried out within the designated time frame or to the satisfaction of a council officer, property owners may be subject to infringements or have the matter referred to the Magistrates Court. The penalty for failing to comply with a Fire Prevention Notice is 10 penalty units ($1586). The maximum penalty for failing to comply with the notice is 120 penalty units or imprisonment for 12 months or both.

Walk in visitation to the Inverloch Visitor Information Centre for the period July 1, 2017 to November 30, 2017 has increased by 25 percent compared to the same period in 2016. “We are expecting Inverloch to be busy as it is at always is at this time of year,” Bass Coast Shire Council’s economic development and tourism manager Peter Francis said. “Inverloch is such a popular place and there is heaps to see and do in and around the town.” While the Great Ocean Road and the Mornington Peninsula remain the most popular regions, Inverloch is quickly emerging as a new travel hotspot for Victorian travelers. “With plenty of coastal activities including

swimming and snorkelling in Bunurong Marine National Park and Anderson Inlet, Inverloch is a great summer holiday spot and one perfect for the whole family,” Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said. “The Sounds of Summer music festival also makes Inverloch an attractive destination for those wishing to visit the Bass Coast over the New Year’s period.”

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Council wants more money SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council will step up its advocacy for government funding for projects. The measure was a key point of council’s draft Annual Initiatives for 2018-19, to be released for public consultation over coming months. The draft initiatives include a focus on advocacy to the State and Federal governments for priority projects and critical infrastructure, exploring options for aged and disability services, and reviewing service levels for gravel roads. The annual review also resulted in two new strategies being developed: • council commission a coastal study to explore opportunities for developing the shire’s coastal areas, while still protecting the coastal environment; and • updating the recreation, aquatic, and paths and trails strategies. The strategies and initiatives will remain draft until public consultation is carried out in late March and April and are expected to be finalised by next June. Mayor Cr Lorraine Brunt said, “The review is a great way to work on our strategies and define what direction council wants to take, particularly over the next 12 months. “It allows for us to have set goals, in areas that need the most help and work. This transparency between council and the community keeps everyone updated with what is happening across the region.”

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Spreading the word: from left, Inverloch Historical Society’s Terry Hall and president John Hutchinson were at the Inverloch Lions Community Twilight Farmers Market last Wednesday, urging the public to sign a petition. The petition urges Bass Coast Shire Council to allow the society to build its proposed Inverloch History and Maritime Museum on council land next to the eastern side of the Inverloch Boat Ramp car park. “The Inverloch community has demonstrated considerable interest and appreciation that its local and maritime history will at last have a home,” Mr Hall said. “Our petition to the Bass Coast council for a response to our written and verbal submission is being well understood by residents and ratepayers. Our members and supporters are currently collecting signatures for presentation to council at the end of January 2018.”

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PAGE 10 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

COLUMN 7

col7@thestar.com.au

Jess Anstice

Sarah Vella

Tayla T Tayl a Kershaw aw

Brad Lester

As people draft their New Year resolutions, Quit Victoria is encouraging smokers to develop a plan to help them stick to their smoke free goals. “Many people start the year motivated and ready to give up smoking, but unfortunately when the holiday period is over and they return to their usual routines, the motivation can quickly fade,” Quit Victoria director Sarah White said. “What’s more, just one in five people use the most effective quitting approach when trying to stop smoking.” Evidence shows that a comprehensive approach, which includes support from a EIGHT in 10 smokers in Victoria say they service like the Quitline combined with nicotine want to quit smoking but few are likely to set replacement therapy or quitting medication, is the most effective way to quit for good. themselves up for success in 2018. SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council granted $9000 to Leongatha Lyric Theatre at the 2017-18 round one community grants recently. The funds were provided to enable the preparation of a development plan/business case to facilitate a complete rebuild of the stage and supporting theatrical infrastructure in Mesley Hall. Lyric theatre will also contribute $1000 to the costs of securing the services of arts consultant Rob Gebert. Mr Gebert has extensive experience in the arts and arts consultancy. It is expected the report will be completed by the end of April 2018.

MEENIYAN Country Women’s Association (CWA) is holding a workshop for basic machine sewing on Monday, January 15. Come along to the Meeniyan Hall supper room for learn techniques such as seams, zips, top stitching and corners to make a cushion cover. The workshop will be led by an experienced CWA judge and will start at 9am and go until 12pm. Bring your own machine or borrow one of theirs. Bookings are essential. To participate please bring a $5 donation per person. Children are welcome. This class is best Community gathering: clockwise, from bottom left, Sophie, Nathan, Addison, Chelsea, suited to those over eight years old. For more information contact Faye Bland on Lucas, Stella, Erika, Nicola and Felix enjoyed the community Christmas barbecue at Nerrena Hall on Friday, December 22. 5662 4907 or 0427 655 273.

Foster looks out for teens’ mental health LOOKING for signs of mental health concerns in teenagers was the focus of a session delivered to staff and the public at Foster Secondary College recently.

On show: a model railway appealed to people young and old at Tarwin Lower Mechanics Institute and Memorial Hall last Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings. The OO gauge layout featured sound equipped locomotives, firefighters in action, a welder and other interactive features. Children enjoyed some ‘I spy’ fun. It was created by Venus Bay resident Daniel Lawrie and is based on a fictional English Village named Delsbury Hill. The last viewing for this year will be held in the Tarwin Lower hall tonight (Wednesday, January 3) from 6pm to 9pm. Prices are $6 an adult, $4 for children or $20 for a family.

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Dianne Robinson from Yarram Rural Family Services trained 10 staff and eight members of the local community in looking for signs of depression, anxiety and trauma in young people. A highlight was having so many male staff members do the training. Kem Brown, Wade Aitken, Scott Bindloss, Todd Holman and Nic Andreopoulos will now be available to help boys and girls at the college in 2018. It was also terrific to have parents and people representing the Foster Hospital and Manna Gum Prehistoric fun: Ruby Bundy from Boronia Community House at the professional developand Mike Cleeland from Inverloch Dinosaurs ment. Next year the college hopes to run Teen met a statue of the prehistoric animal, Koola- Mental Health for a year level as part of its health studies.

suchus, during a fossil breaking at Inverloch on Sunday. The statue is in the Wallace Avenue Community Park, Inverloch, and made for a fitting setting for the fossil event, run by Bunurong Coast Education, which is based next to Inverloch Marine, The Esplanade, Inverloch. More activities will be held over summer. The park offers information about Koolasuchus and Inverloch’s fascinating dinosaurrich past.

Caring for teens: from left, Melissa Webster from Manna Gum and Jacquie Dinsbergs, art teacher at Foster Secondary College, took part in the teen mental health event held at the school.

Watch birds at Duck Point KEEN birdwatchers will love the Duck Take note: Leongatha’s Jennifer Chitty with a sign banning U turns in McCartin Street, Point loop walk at Yanakie, with a wealth Leongatha. of local and migratory birds to be seen along the 2.1 kilometre path. The short circuit walk showcases panoramic views of Corner Inlet and Wilsons Promontory National Park and is the perfect distance for families, or keen bush walkers. Starting at the Yanakie boat ramp on Foley Road, the track meanders through coastal bush and then heads out onto the shore of Corner Inlet. Conditions vary depending on tides. Avoiding high tide is recommended. Once on the beach turn right and follow the beach back towards the boat ramp. The walk is well sign posted and it takes around 45 minutes to complete the full loop. Foley Road is located around five kilometres past the Yanakie township when travelling from the Fish Creek direction. The turn off to Foley Road is on the left. Dogs are allowed on a leash.

U turn ban sparks interest

MOTORISTS in Leongatha have had mixed reactions to a new sign banning U turns in McCartin Street.

The sign, opposite Elsie’s Florist, bans U turns at a location popular for such a manoeuvre. Leongatha’s Jennifer Chitty called for another sign on the median strip closer to the roundabout to ban U turns by drivers opposite Insight Real Estate. She said collisions had occurred due to drivers reversing from carparks colliding with vehicles performing a U turn. “Even myself, I’ve had people blast their horn and I think ‘Where did they come from?’” she said. The Star asked Facebook followers what they thought of the McCartin Street sign. They said: • Jayne Mckenzie: “Why would you do a U turn there anyway? It’s not even a safe place to do a U

turn”; • Jill Wigney: “Will be wonderful when the traffic is banked back to Bendigo Bank because of the magnificent shemozzle called a bypass. U turns have been done there for years and all of a sudden it’s deemed to be unsatisfactory”; • Danah Suckling: “It’s not the only new sign banning U turns in Leongatha. There’s one at the lights for the CFA and if you come from the opposite direction, there’s no right turn into the petrol station”; and • Elsie Armstrong Willis: “I agree with most. Just use the roundabout. It won’t hurt to wait for a minute or so. That sign is way too small but I guess if it’s only small then drivers won’t see it and up goes the revenue....oops...I think they call it driver safety now, not revenue...ha, ha. Can’t do a U turn there in one turn in a 4x4 or large vehicle anyways”.

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 11

Campaigning for support: from left, Korumburra Secondary College acting principal John Wilson, Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien, leading teacher Susan Lloyd and school community engagement group member Sasha Boys urge the community to sign a petition calling for state funding for further building works.

Sign up for new school THE Korumburra Secondary College community and Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien are encouraging local residents to show their support this summer for a rebuild of the school. Mr O’Brien met with college representatives recently to promote the petition currently being circulated calling on the State Government to fund stage two of the college rebuild. “It was great to see students move in this term to the new STEAM building funded by The Nationals in government in 2014, but it remains a disappointment that we have not seen funding flow for stage two,” Mr O’Brien said. “We committed to finishing the school at the 2014 election but so far, there has been no commitment from the Labor Party. “It would be great to finish the project now

that stage one is being used to ensure that our Korumburra students have access to the best quality educational infrastructure.” Mr O’Brien said he’d had great support from the school including its community engagement group, which has been circulating the petitions around town. “It would be great to have thousands of signatures on a petition to table when Parliament resumes to demonstrate the community’s support for this important project and hopefully having it funded in the next state budget,” he said. “Our students deserve nothing less and with Korumburra likely to grow in future this rebuild is very much needed. “I encourage people to seek out the petitions in local businesses over January so we can keep the pressure up on the Andrews Labor Government.”

South Gippsland Shire briefs Koonwarra lane named AN unnamed road at Koonwarra will be called Darshan Lane. The lane, off Caithness Road, is abutted by three properties, but these properties are addressed as Caithness Road, confusing the public, transport vehicles and emergency services. Other names suggested to South Gippsland Shire Council were Barguss and Millson, with a vote of landowners supporting Darshan. Darshan means ‘to receive from, to receive uplifting glances and blessings from one who is in tune with nature’. The name was suggested by an abutting property owner, but at the December council meeting, Cr Maxine Kiel said the term was of Hindu origin and preferred the lane to be named after an ex-serviceman. Barguss was proposed by the Leongatha and District Historical Society in honour of Robert Barguss. He died of illness as a prisoner of war on the Burma Railway on January 12, 1944. He was from Koonwarra and his name is etched on the memorial gates in his honour in the town. The society also proposed Millsom to recognise Harry Millsom, who was in the 2/22 Battalion at Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, and was executed by the Japanese as a prisoner of war on March 8, 1942. He lived and farmed at Tarwin, and also has his name etched on the memorial gates in his honour in Koonwarra. A vote of council backed the name Darshan. Objectors can appeal council’s decision with the Registrar of Geographic Place Names.

Climate action SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has

joined a state wide campaign to take action on climate change.

Council will submit a pledge to the Sustainability Victoria TAKE2 Climate Change Action Pledge program, stating it would be “a municipality that values its local people, flora and fauna and is committed to actively and collaboratively engaging with its community and other partners in protecting the environment and benefiting from sustainable opportunities.” Council also promised to commit to actions that have been completed, are being undertaken or are proposed to be implemented. Council will seek the community’s support for TAKE2 Pledge program objectives across the shire. Council will join 27 councils and more than 3000 Victorians who have pledged their support to the program.

Don’t miss council in 2018 SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council will continue to meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month throughout 2018, apart from April, May and December.

Ordinary council meetings will be held in the Council Chambers in Leongatha at 2pm on February 28, March 28, Thursday, April 26, May 30, June 27, July 25, August 22, September 26, October 24, November 28 and December 19. The April meeting will take place on a Thursday due to Wednesday, April 25, being Anzac Day. The May meeting will be on the fifth Wednesday due to council considering the Council Plan, budget and rating strategy throughout May. The December meeting is earlier due to the holiday season.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

OPINIONS

Highway neglect

MY wife and I have just returned from a road trip to Queensland. I’m writing to you about the shocking condition of the roads in the state of Victoria. We live in Foster and travel the South Gippsland Highway often. The condition of this major highway is nothing short of a joke. The most common sign you see while driving is “Rough Surface 80km”. The patch up jobs, one after the other, is making the

road uneven and rough, and so believe many others I’ve spoken to. When is something going to be done about the state of this major highway? Marty Thomas, Foster.

Rubbish confusion I AM completely bewildered. Is Inverloch going to be teeming with flies, mice and rats over the next few weeks as rubbish bins overflow with the influx of holiday makers to our usually

E D I T O R I A L

Letters to the Editor

beautiful town? I have been boasting about Bass Coast Shire Council’s foresight in having a weekly recycle bin collection from Christmas Day until the end of January in the past. I thought we were so lucky. The new bin system has been working so well. But, how can we cope with one fortnightly collection of the ‘red bin’ when visitors who don’t understand our new system, or don’t have time to, overfill the bin with nappies and other smelly nasties! Most holiday rental owners haven’t even taken the kitchen caddy bin off the back of their organic wheelie bin, let alone put it out. How will holidaymakers cope when they arrive at their accom-

modation to find the red waste bin already full? Even if the owner had the foresight to order an extra ‘red’ bin, it won’t alleviate the smell of the full one. I thought we would have a weekly collection of our waste over the holiday period. I put my ‘red’ bin out last night in hope! I suppose we’ll have lots of ‘red’ bins out on the naturestrip from now until the next collection. This is already a common sight in Inverloch in the non-holiday period. It might be too late for this holiday season, but let’s hope I’m wrong, and Inverloch doesn’t become the talking point of Melbourne for the wrong reasons. Margaret Pope, Inverloch.

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

Tree disgust EIGHT very young magnolia trees in MacDonald Street, Leongatha were ripped out of the ground on Christmas Eve. My daughter Cass and I replanted them Christmas Day evening but to no avail. They all bar one have died. How anyone in their right mind can do this I will never understand. Jo Fennell, Leongatha.

Businesses are hurting SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is killing Korumburra. Due to the shire failing to

finish off sealing works in the recreation reserve, tourists didn’t have a place to stop, shop and revive this year. Sales were way down due to mistakes and time wasting works at the showgrounds. The council has once again gone way overtime. Leongatha Recreation Reserve works were overdue by five to six weeks due to incorrect shire engineering works, three times in a row on levels. Korumburra is hurting and the shire isn’t helping. Korumburra businesses hurt over this period should be helped financially by South Gippsland Shire. David Amor, Korumburra.

VOXPOP! VOX

What do you do to stay safe at the beach?

Extra bin services needed BINS are overflowing in Inverloch but still Bass Coast Shire Council is not going to add extra collections to address the issue. Last September, council introduced a three bin system: an organics and green waste bin, landfill bin and recycling bin. The organics and green waste bin is collected weekly, and the landfill and recycling bins fortnightly, on alternate weeks. The system has reduced the amount of waste going to landfill in the shire by diverting food scraps away from landfill and sending these away to Dutson Downs to be turned into compost. The weekly collection of those bins has also allowed householders to dispose of garden waste conveniently, but the fortnightly pickup of landfill bins has placed pressure on large households as they quickly fill their bins and often with the type of rubbish one does not want sitting around for two weeks – that is, dirty nappies. Now with thousands of holidaymakers in the shire, the fortnightly collection of landfill bins is resulting in overflowing, smelly bins in Inverloch and beyond. Holiday house tenants are arriving to find landfill bins still full with the garbage left by previous tenants. Christmas and the holiday period do result in more waste being produced by most households, and despite the aim of the organics collection, the new bin system appears to not be coping with the extra demand. Council is urged to review the effectiveness of the system and for the sake of extra landfill bin pickups over summer – a total of two a year, says Inverloch real estate agent Adam Leys in today’s Star - the problem could be solved. Nobody wants to stay in a town with overflowing and stinking bins. Inverloch traders rely on the summer rush to offset the winter downturn. Let’s not tarnish the region’s tourism industry for the sake of saving the cost of two extra bin services a year.

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.

“Always swim between the flags because there has never been a fatality between the flags in the region.” Craig Watson, Venus Bay.

“I check the currents and rips before entering the water.” Jasmine McJames, Pound Creek.

“Swim between the flags, be aware of the conditions and swim with other people.” Tania Dods-Cumming, Tarwin Lower.

“I always make sure I’m wearing my goggles, floaties and a rashie.” Jack Vanderkolk, Venus Bay.

Marine pest returns to Wilsons Prom AFTER four years of no sightings, the highly invasive and predatory Northern Pacific Seastar has been rediscovered by Parks Victoria divers in Tidal River, Wilsons Promontory National Park. Three divers were conducting a routine search in the lower end of Tidal River when they found a single mature seastar measuring 15cm in diameter underneath the Tidal River footbridge. In 2012 the Northern Pacific Sea-

star was discovered for the first time at Tidal River, prompting significant efforts to prevent the pest from becoming established in the Tidal River estuary and spreading. This involved extensive diver surveys and hand removals of seastars over the following year. This recent finding will now spark a series of follow-up surveys in the river over the coming months to determine the extent of infestation and control efforts. Parks Victoria marine pest officer Jonathon Stevenson said, “Sightings of suspected Northern Pacific Seastars can be reported to marine.pests@ecodev.vic.gov.

au with the location, date and time and photograph to assist investigations.” The Northern Pacific Seastar can be easily transported by currents or relocated to new areas attached to fishing and diving equipment and the hulls of vessels, including kayaks and canoes. All equipment used in marine areas should be washed in freshwater after use, then thoroughly dried to reduce the risk of spreading marine pests. For more information call 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov. au

Got it: Parks Victoria ranger Chris Hayward found this Northern Pacific Seastar during routine marine pest surveys of Tidal River in December.

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 13

Community spirit: Wonthaggi Life Saving Club is celebrating 80 years of service this month. Club members are pictured with students from Wonthaggi North Primary School, who visited the club before the end of the school year.

Lifesavers celebrate 80 years WONTHAGGI Life Saving Club is turning 80. To celebrate, the club is hosting its former and present members for a massive weekend of activities on January 13 and 14. An open day will open the festivities on January 13. Former members are invited to come along and check out the facilities, old photos and memorabilia. In the evening, the party will continue at the hall with a light supper and live entertainment. January 14 will be a full on day at the beach with the club championships to be held. The Nippers program will finish up on this day, and the bronze camp will kick off following the championships. Starting at 10am, former members are invited

to take part in the club championships and join the members for a barbecue afterwards. The club will also be running several other fundraisers during January, which will help raise money to upgrade the facilities. A high tea will be held this Saturday, January 6 at the hall, and movie nights will be held on January 7, 12 and 26. Family card nights will be held throughout January, and the Cape Family Festival is scheduled for January 20. The coffee shop will also be open daily in January, offering coffee, drinks, ice poles and Devonshire teas. Club president Mark Scott said an audit of the buildings was recently completed and the club will now start to look at building designs for

Wander the riverbank COOL summer days call for a nice stroll in the park.

Life’s even better when that ‘park’ is the great outdoors, complete with a beautiful river and two charming towns at either end of a pleasant, five kilometre path. That’s the offering of the Tarwin Lower–Venus Bay Pathway, a gravel path linking Tarwin Lower with Venus Bay and suitable for cyclists and walkers, even those with dogs.

Gently undulating, the path is ideal for all fitness levels and is wheelchair friendly. Toilets are available at the Tarwin Lower end of the walk, near the boat ramp, and also at Jupiter Park, Venus Bay. The path now continues all the way into Venus Bay, so there is the option for a cool drink, coffee or ice cream at the end of your journey, at both ends of the trip. Even better.

the redevelopment, which was approved by Bass Coast Shire Council in 2014. The plans are still in the concept stage, but the club would like to see the hall, beach tower, rotunda and toilet block converted into a central facility. The club is also undergoing work to redesign the car park and barbecue shelter. Mr Scott said the 80th celebration is an opportunity for former members to catch up with old friends, and share stories about the old facility in the lead up to the redevelopment. “It’s a good opportunity for people to re-engage with the club and see the change from the old carnivals to what we do now,” he said. “It’s also an opportunity for people to talk to our newer members about what it took to build our club, like the handmade bricks. There have been some extraordinary contributions to our club.” Mr Scott said the club is appealing to former members to track down old photos. The club has been working with Bass Coast Shire Council and the Wonthaggi Historical Society to create an electronic history of the club. Mr Scott said the club has been extremely active within the community, continuing to offer school programs and first aid services for community events like triathlons, Keeping Kids on Track and HPV. “We hope this event brings the community together and we can start thinking about our next 20 years,” he said.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Out there: a couple enjoys the sights of French Island during a Naturaliste Tour.

All aboard: travel to French Island in comfort on the new vessel MV Naturaliste.

New French Island tours launched FRENCH Island is a unique destination.

The island runs completely off the grid with no mains water or electricity, there is virtually no traffic, and famously, Kylie Minogue once owned a holiday home here. The 170 square kilometre island is twothirds national park and now, visitors looking for a nature-based experience can travel around this rugged, unspoilt island with Naturaliste Tours – all just a stone’s throw from Cowes and Stony Point in the heart of Westernport Bay. The new small group experience began opera-

tion in December and offers fully guided landbased tours most days of the week. On a Naturaliste Tour, visitors to French Island will discover the history and natural beauty of this hidden destination which is located just15 minutes by ferry from the mainland. The new Wildlife and History Tour is three hours long (3.5 hours with fast catamaran transfers from Cowes Jetty) and is led by an experienced guide and travels through national park, stopping for wildlife viewing, panoramic vistas, and short walks with talks on history and native

flora, fauna and birdlife. Naturaliste Tours and Western Port Ferries CEO Matt McDonald said the tour provides a glimpse into the beauty and rugged natural terrain of the island. “The wildlife viewing is second to none and the history and heritage of the island is truly fascinating. After many years without a tourism operator, we are very excited to launch Naturaliste Tours,” he said. The local tour guides will share their knowledge of the natural environment, wildlife and history of French Island during the tours.

The purpose built, four-wheel drive vehicle can accommodate up to 12 passengers while touring the rugged, unspoilt island in air conditioned comfort. For those looking for a bit of adventure, who like getting off the beaten track and view animals in the wild, this tour is for you! Private tours, personalised to your interests are also available on request. Each tour departs from Tankerton Jetty on French Island and includes return ferry transfers from Cowes or Stony Point. More at: www. naturalistetours.com.au

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 15

Cruising magic at Wilsons Promontory SEEING Wilson Promontory from the water is a unique experience. Now more people can enjoy a Prom cruise thanks to the foresight of Jason and Rebecca Bingham who launched their Refuge Cove Cruises adventure tours recently. The first passage cruise took place last Thursday, December 28, when 37 passengers boarded the 12 metre catamaran named Game Changer at 8.30am at the Port Welshpool Ferry Terminal. The eight hour cruise included many stops along the way to take in the Prom’s well known attractions, as well as some of its secrets. At the helm were skipper Dale Cicero and Jason Bingham, owner and deckhand, making sure everything was ship shape for his passengers. They were assisted by Jeremy Johnston, who also acted as the tour guide and deckhand. The Prom is the southernmost tip of the Aus-

tralian mainland and managed by Parks Victoria. It is surrounded by sea on three sides and is renowned for its rugged granite mountains, lush rainforests, pristine beaches and abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, emus and wombats. It also has an extensive network of marine protected areas and is a rare example of adjoining marine and land parks providing protected landscapes from the top of the mountains to the bottom of the sea. These marine parks protect sponge gardens, rocky reefs, kelp forests, seagrass beds and seal colonies. The cruise captured all of this, with tour guide Mr Johnston giving those on board in depth commentary about what was his backyard for many decades while he was a ranger in the park. Passengers enjoyed seeing the Wilsons Prom lighthouse, built from local granite in 1859, up close.

A team: Jason Bingham, owner/deckhand of Refuge Cove Cruises, with the skipper Dale Cicero and Jeremy Johnston, deckhand and tour guide. Their expertise and attention to detail made for a truly memorable experience for guests on the first passenger paying cruise last Thursday. Refuge Cove Cruises is now running daily cruises.

Serene location: the Game Changer sits in the calm water of Refuge Cove while passengers and crew enjoy the serenity.

Getting history: Katie MacAulay from Binginwarri chats with tour guide Jeremy Johnston about Skull Rock during Thursday’s Refuge Cove Cruise.

While passing this amazing structure, they also learnt about the precautions Australia’s military took during World War One after reports a German raider had laid mines in the waters off the coast. The cruise continued onto Kanowna Island where the motor was cut and guests enjoyed morning tea before continuing on. Passengers saw seals at play and got up close to Skull Rock, before heading back to Refuge Cove for a leisurely lunch. Guests then had plenty of time to enjoy swimming, snorkelling or a hike through the park. Other highlights on the trip included seeing where the ship The Sophia came to grief near the southernmost point of Australia. Some of her wreckage still remains on the shore.

Guests took the opportunity to take some selfies at South Point. Dolphin sightings are regular occurrences on these cruises, as are whales during the whale migration period. If you have a bucket list for 2018, then this adventure is a must. The crew is amazing and ensure all passengers are well looked after and enjoy the cruise. This truly is a five star attraction and one that should bring many visitors to the area. Make sure you check them out on their website, refugecovecruises.com.au or call Jason and Rebecca on 0418 789 916. They will be running cruises everyday from January 2. The Game Changer was custom designed for Refuge Cove Cruises. It was designed by a Western Australian and built at Inverloch.

Peaceful location: the Game Changer berths at Refuge Cove where passengers are able to disembark and enjoy the delights of this peaceful cove with swimming, snorkelling and bushwalking after an amazing lunch, which is included in the price of the cruise.

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Sea Days Festival to amaze TOURISTS and locals alike love the Sea Days Festival and this year’s big event promises fun and excitement for all.

The 13th annual Sea Days Festival is set to be held this weekend, January 6 and 7, at the Old Ferry Terminal in Port Welshpool. Everyone’s favourite activities will be on again, but a thrilling point of difference this year will be helicopter joy flights and sightseeing cruises. The Port Welshpool Working Group has teamed up with Prom Helicopters and Kraken Boat Tours to bring this exciting new feature to the festival. The year’s festival is all about clean beaches and sharks. Sea Shepherd will be on deck with a display and will be discussing clean beaches and shark finning. Welshpool Primary School’s grades 5 and 6 students will also play a vital role by talking about keeping the ocean clean. They will then work together to pick up rubbish along the beach. The school community will also supply coffee and snacks. Students from all local primary schools in the area were invited to participate in a poster competition. The posters were to feature friendly sharks, and representatives from Parks Victoria and the Department of Land Water and Planning visited schools to discuss what their artworks could look like. The posters will be judged and the winners will be announced on Sunday, January 7. There will be plenty of children’s activities over the course of the weekend, including craft stations and a jumping castle. Children can also try fishing. The Come and Try Fishing activity is for children between the ages of five and 15 to learn the basics of fishing.

Festival on again: the 2018 Sea Days Festival will be held this weekend, January 6 and 7. Pictured is Andrew, Molly, Abbey, and Tony Lees from Welshpool, who learned the basics of fishing at last year’s festival. All fishing rods, bait and tackle are provided. The Come and Try Fishing sessions will be held at 10am and 2pm on each day, but there is a maximum limit of 25 children per session. Children can be registered on the day, but prebooking through the Sea Days Festival website is recommended. On top of this, there will be live entertainment, displays from the Port Welshpool Coast Guard, Agnes Falls, and South Gippsland Water, animal and wildlife displays, and an underwater photograph display courtesy of marine biologist

Rob Gardiner. The Port Welshpool and District Maritime Museum will have a display focused on the Long Jetty. Entry to the festival is a gold coin donation. “The locals love the festival, but it is also great for tourists. Many people drive past or see the signs and are totally blown away by it,” Port Welshpool Working Group secretary Alma Mattingly said. For more information about the festival, head to www.seadaysfestival.com.au.

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Something for everyone at Stony Creek FROM baby crocodiles to face painting, horse racing to the popular annual Ladies Day marquee, there will be something for everybody at the next Stony Creek race meet this Monday, January 8.

Stony Creek Racing Club CEO Sarah Wolf said the club was thrilled to be welcoming Chris Humfrey and his Wild Action Zoo back to Stony Creek with all his reptilian, feathered and furry friends making an appearance. “As well as a full program of racing action for Ladies Day, we also have a fantastic line up of family entertainment including Chris Humfrey doing three shows with his Wild Action Zoo, and the return of Kelly’s Sports, face painting, balloon artist and free CRV kids show bags. This is all part of the Kids Summer of Country Racing campaign,” she said. “Last year Chris’ Wild Action Zoo was incredibly popular with both kids and adults alike, and we are grateful to have Chris back at Stony Creek wowing audiences and introducing all his creatures on race day. “We are also welcoming back the traditional lobster raffle raising vital money for the Meeniyan CFA, which is looking to purchase some vital equipment and we encourage everybody to buy a raffle ticket and support this worthy cause. “There’s something for the whole family at Stony Creek.” Local caterer Brent Sinclair will be taking care of lunch in the ‘Sisterhood Women’s Trav-

el Pink Roses Marquee’ with Ms Wolf saying local produce would be on full display in the marquee. “One of the Stony Creek Racing Club is key aims is to support our local community and the Ladies Day marquee is a great opportunity to support local businesses and jobs while showcasing local wine from Waratah Hills and other Gippsland produce,” she said. “South Gippsland produces some of Australia’s freshest and tastiest produce and we are lucky to have Leongatha’s own Brent Sinclair to prepare lunch. “This year, we are also supporting the Venus Bay Surf Lifesaving Club which will be raising much needed funds to purchase rescue equipment for their club.” Tickets are still on sale to the Ladies Day Marquee and include race day entry, gourmet three course meal, alcoholic beverages, prizes and a fun day out with friends. Buses to Stony Creek will make enjoying the races even easier with pick up locations at Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson, Inverloch, Venus Bay and Tarwin Lower. Bookings must be made prior to race day for this service to run. 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, book your seat on the bus or for more information on the Ladies Day Marquee, visit www.scrc.com.au or contact the Stony Creek Racing Club office on 5664 0099.

Race ready: Olga Hutt, Lisa Russell, Angela DiConza and Connie Butterfield from Venus Bay relaxed at the Stony Creek Races at last year’s Ladies Day. The marquee will see local caterer Brent Sinclair taking care of lunch in the ‘Sisterhood Women’s Travel Pink Roses Marquee’.

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Enjoy family glamping at Churchill Island LOOKING for something to do with the family during the summer holidays?

Love the idea of camping out under the stars and getting back to nature, but not sure about the whole ‘roughing it’ concept? The new glamping weekends on Churchill Island may offer the perfect solution to let you create some wonderful family moments and memories in the great outdoors. Imagine sitting by the evening campfire as it crackles and hisses gently, and the perfect toasted marshmallow. You look over at the cosy and private tent village set in the beautiful and historic grounds of Churchill Island Heritage Farm and you think how great it is that all the hard work has been done for you. Your luxury bell tent boasts super comfortable air mattresses adorned with thick doonas and soft pillows, and extra creature comforts like a bedside lamp, bath towels, a radio and even a deck of cards. The day one experience includes a virtual journey to the world’s most remote continent as you explore the giant screens and augmented reality experience at the WWF Antarctic Journey. Enjoy your Aussie barbecue dinner at the Nobbies then take the short drive to the Penguin Parade to experience the magic of the little penguins waddling across the beach.

Outdoors fun: a family enjoys making memories while glamping at Churchill Island. Return to Churchill Island and gather around the campfire to cook damper, toast marshmallows and exchange stories before turning in for a restful night’s sleep. Day two begins with a cooked breakfast and a few simple farm chores like helping to feed the animals. Once the work is done and you’ve packed up your gear, head off to visit the koalas and see them up close from the treetop boardwalks. Explore the woodland walking trails, looking out for wallabies and echidna and one of the 40 species of birds that call these woodlands home. Glamping experiences on Churchill Island operate on scheduled dates from January through to May, with a range

of different activities and inclusions, so stay tuned for further dates and glamping themes including Survival and Bushcraft and Pamper weekends. Private groups available on request. The Family Glamping experience includes: • Family 4 Parks Pass – Penguin Parade, Antarctic Journey, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island Heritage Farm with activities as listed; • luxury bell tent with air mattress, linens and inclusions as listed; and • dinner and breakfast. It’s on from January 13 to 14, and February 17 to 18, 2018. Bookings essential. To book or for more information email Jade at jcranton@penguins.org. au or call on 5951 2802.

Don’t miss market, music THIS Saturday, January 6 is a big day for the 14 member Rotary Club of Inverloch. An early start will enable the club’s craft market to be operational at 9am in and around the Inverloch Community Hub in A’Beckett Street, Inverloch. Many products are available including plants, books, greeting cards, local artist paintings, homemade children’s wear, jewellery and many other gift ideas. In addition the club is also operating a barbecue at the market. That evening, Music in the Glade starts at 6pm and is a free community event sponsored by the Rotary Club of Inverloch. Club president Rosa Turner said, “This is a great way to thank the local communities and

other supporters who have assisted the club, over the year, to provide local community projects, give aid to disaster victims, support youth and young adults with leadership programs together with many other programs here and overseas.” There will be more than two hours of almost continuous music of all your favourite songs. Everyone is welcome to bring a picnic dinner or purchase one from the local shops or from food vans which will be on site this year. These are provided for attendees to save children waiting too long at other food outlets. A chair and rug are good additions particularly when a cool sea breeze blows. The Glade in Inverloch is on The Esplanade, opposite the Inlet Hotel. For more information please contact Paul Everitt on 0408 242 210.

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Outdoors on show at Foster expo THE best in everything outdoors will be showcased at the Foster Outdoor Expo on the weekend of January 6 and 7, 2018.

The second annual event returns to the Foster Showgrounds, presenting at least 55 exhibitors covering fishing, camping, four wheel driving, cooking, boating, caravanning and more. The expo is presented by Foster Football and Netball Club to raise money for new netball courts. The inaugural expo in 2017 raised $15,000. Colin Pulham, one of the expo organisers, said, “Over the two days, we will have everything to do with outdoor lifestyle and adventure.” Visitors will enjoy exhibitors offering products and services in four wheel drive and caravan accessories, fishing, cooking, boating, pools, motor vehicles from cars to four wheel drives, fishing and camping. Foster State Emergency Service and Port Welshpool Coast Guard will have displays and food.

Families will be well catered for, with children able to enjoy a jumping castle, petting zoo, face painting, games and activities in a dedicated children’s area under the shade of trees. Food vendors will sell a range of food, with visitors able to eat in the comfort of a marquee. Live music will be offered throughout the day and 3MFM Radio will broadcast live. “We have 55,000 beachgoers flooding our coastal resorts at this time of year and they’re mostly out of towners from Melbourne and the Valley, so Foster is the ideal location for an outdoors expo,” Colin said. South Gippsland Off Road of Leongatha and Wonthaggi, and New Age Caravans East Gippsland are the main expo sponsors. Compass Pools, Drum Furniture, Halls Hats, Harley Davidson from Traralgon, Stratford Marine, Leongatha Holden, Werever 4x4 and BCF are just a few of the exhibitors to attend this year’s event. Tickets available at the gate. Seniors discounts Fun galore: Amy Elliott from PGL ran games with Riley Noble from Somerville, Levi Barker from Melbourne and Alex Noble at the Foster Outdoor Expo in 2017. A dedicated apply and children under 10 are free.

children’s area at the 2018 expo on January 6 and 7 will entertain young ones.

Lookout for Mount Nicoll AROUND midway between the townships of Fish Creek and Foster is the Mount Nicoll Lookout. Featuring picturesque views of Wilsons Promontory and Corner Inlet, the lookout is accessed via a 200 metre gravel trail up a reasonably steep incline. From the car park, depending on one’s fitness

levels, the walk to the lookout takes just a few minutes. The views are quite spectacular and on a clear day visibility can stretch for kilometres. The towering wind turbines on the Toora hills and inlets can be easily viewed. There are views out over Wilsons Promontory, Corner Inlet, Sandy Point, Foster North and right around to Fish Creek.

The road to the walking track is quite steep, unmade and not suitable for caravans. The walking track is defined but can be a little slippery in places so caution and appropriate footwear is advised. Mount Nicoll is approximately eight kilometres south-west of the Foster township, on The climb: the track up to the Mount Nicoll the Fish Creek-Foster Road. Lookout is rather steep, but the reward at the

top is most definitely worth the effort.

NOW OPEN AT 56 Bair Street, Leongatha Entry via rear carpark

Up and running: co-owner of Infinity Laser Tag Leongatha Ben Yates is thrilled to provide Leongatha with a fun activity to suit people of all ages.

INFINITY LASER TAG

Leongatha laser tag kicks off Single Player or Group

FEEL the force at the new Infinity filled fun, either playing as individuals or splitting into two teams. Laser Tag centre in Leongatha. The centre opened last week and co-owner Ben Yates said the business has been flat out busy since. “We've had more and more people come through every day,” he said. “Even with the warmer weather, we've had a few people in. The adults get quite competitive.” Ben and Jackie Yates of Leongatha run and own the business. The game is a tag game played with guns that fire infrared beams. The arena can take 18 people for adrenaline

A laser tag league competition will begin during the first week of February either for those laser tag enthusiasts wanting to develop their skills on a competitive level or for fun. Challenge yourself in a fun and competitive environment in a weekly round robin competition. For more information, enquire on the Infinity Laser Tag Facebook page. Children's birthday party deals start from just $25 per person. The centre is open from 10am to 5pm during the school holidays, and is at 56 Bair Street.

10- or 15-minute games Party Bookings & Private Hire Available

5618 0032 INF0850001

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2017

All The Star’s newsmakers

The winners....

• Parrots’ grand final success • Lenny Gwyther statue • Burra Foods and Viplus Dairy expansions • Meeniyan’s new garlic festival, market and businesses • Region on show during Great ictorian Bike Ride Victorian From the editor.... FROM theatre stages to sporting arenas, to businesses and schools, locals made their mark on South Gippsland in 2017. The Star was there to record the region’s feats and to also work with the community to talk up Leongatha through a series of stories that culminated in a Victoria-wide journalism award that is also a gong for the community. South Gippsland, particularly dairy farmers are looking to an even brighter 2018 with a new buyer likely for Murray Goulburn and all indications pointing towards higher milk prices that will in turn benefit the broader community. Brad Lester, editor, The Star.

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From surf to hair FROM a fully equipped hair salon to beach equipment hire, surf clothing and music accessories, Edge of the Earth has it all.

Located at the end of the main street in Venus Bay, this unique shop is hard to miss. Four enthusiastic co-owners, Jarrod and Jayde Headlam, and Natasha Doyle and Sam Ennis opened the store two months ago and have been busy since. “It’s been fantastic and absolutely crazy,” Mr Ennis said. “Everything is eco friendly and we want to maintain a sustainable image.” Surf boards, pedal boats, kayaks and stand up paddle boards are available for hire, and local surfwear brands such as Boneyard Gypsy, Little Mate and Sea Shepherd are stocked. Quality brands such as Afends, Sun Bum, Surf Eclipse, Oke Surfboards, Obfive Skateboards, Ernie Ball Music, Carve, Pelican Kayaks, Ocean Earth, Essential Oils hair care, Affinage hair products and Plume Angel are all available for hire or purchase. Edge of the Earth offers cuts, colours, re styles, feather extensions and eyebrow tinting in the hair salon. Not only can you enjoy a head massage whilst getting your hair washed, the new massage chair All in one: Edge of the Earth co-owners Natasha Doyle and Jayde Headlam are pictured in front of their new shop in Venus Bay that combines a hairdressing salon with a surf shop. wash basin ensures complete relaxation.

Enjoy gourmet, woodfired cuisine at The Cavity THE Cavity at Venus Bay is definitely the place to be this summer so make sure you book as the summer menu sure is hot.

Fine food: chef and owner Jordan Meikle in front of the new pizza oven at The Cavity at Venus Bay. Jordan and staff have created fabulous and unique pizza options guaranteed to appeal to the most gourmet tastebuds.

The Cavity recently installed a wood fired oven and is now creating some of the region’s most interesting gourmet pizzas, with the most popular being the lamb and running a close second the pork belly. However chef and owner Jordan Meikle said the rabbit complete with Mooloolaba king prawns, Koo Wee Rup asparagus, carrot, cardamom and topped with Fontina cheese is a sure fire hit, as is the decadent seafood pizza featuring the delicious and hard to source Spanish Razor clam. The carefully crafted sourdough bases are made from the very best ingredients and are treated with respect, as this is so important for a truly great pizza.

Additionally, The Cavity is open from 8am to 11pm. The breakfast menu is available from 8am until noon, and the lunch menu is offered until 5.30pm when the restaurant goes to another level, offering such options as Coffin Bay oyster platters or jumbo size Scotch fillet steak sandwiches, which are perfect for those seeking a pick me up after a big morning on the water. Dinner from 6pm features other delicious options including tapas, platters and lots more. Live Blues entertainment is on offer three days a week and happy hour is from 5.30pm to 7pm on Fridays. This is extremely popular with the venue serving sumptuous bowls of paella from only $6. The Cavity stocks some of the best wines from our region’s local producers too, so what are you waiting for? Book your table now and don’t miss out on the fabulous vibe at The Cavity.

Community health: Tarwin Lower and District Community Health Centre management committee president David Miller looks forward to the continued growth of the centre.

Health centre growth continues TARWIN Lower and District Community Health Centre is still growing strong after 25 years.

With one of the highest mean average age demographics in Victoria (56.6 years compared to state average of 37) and significant population growth, there is an increasing need for the district’s community based health centre services. “It has been pleasing to note an increase in attendance at most of the district centres services and activities,” management committee president David Miller said. Now in its 26th year, the centre is in a consolidation and contemplation phase, with consideration about how to enhance the range of professional services and activities the health centre offers. Medical services are available through general practitioners, nurse practitioner, district nursing, continence nurse, chiropody, medical acupuncture, naturopathy, psychology and forensic healing. A wide range of activities are also provided including Tai Chi, yoga, meditation and various community oriented groups including gardening, Red Cross and bridge making full use of the facilities. “The number of services and clients is increasing so the centre is keen to further increase the level of medical and lifestyle services,” Mr Miller said. Whilst the facility is owned by South Gippsland Shire Council, which maintains the building, the centre works through Gippsland Southern Health Services (GSHS) in providing and identifying potential service providers. Mr Miller said the centre is staffed by a group of experienced volunteers and GSHS staff who take and make all appointments. The centre will be launching its own website soon which will be an important point of reference for the community. Much of the administration is volunteer driven and there is an increasing need to attract additional volunteers. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact the centre on 5667 5680.

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 23

The roadhouse with the lot

They have it all: make sure you drop into the Tarwin Roadhouse and see Gordon and Reenu, often known affectionately as Ronay, for their fabulous and friendly service. Take away some of their yummy and traditional Indian cuisine or more Aussie traditional options such as fries and burgers. Creative talents: Pamela Dunstan, treasurer Next time you are passing through on your way to the beach or river, don’t forget they of the Riverside Craft Group Incorporated, is have everything else you may need, from bait and tackle to hire equipment, fuel and even pictured with the beautiful handmade teddy last minute emergency spare parts. bears and craft available to purchase now instore. As Riverside Craft Group is a not for profit group, you can rest assured all the profits from the goods sold are donated to local community groups on an annual basis. Show your support by visiting and purchasing something today.

Well stocked: from left, Tania Newton, owner Frank Keily and Peter Walsh of Tarwin Lower IGA have the very best local wines from our region available now, stocking Fleet, Dirty Three, Wild Dog Winery, Purple Hen and Bass River wines, to name just a few. The store has just celebrated its second birthday, so you are assured of the best quality from the still new supermarket with fresh fruit, meat and all the necessities of the city proSummer fun: James Campbell and Ej Tuck- vided in the tranquil holiday village supermarket. erman from Venus Bay built sandcastles at Visitors will not want to leave Tarwin Lower, with great service from the happy and the Venus Bay surf beach on Thursday. friendly staff, and you are sure to find everything you need.

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Respect your campfire SOUTH Gippslanders are urged to follow the rules when it comes to campfire safety.

Parks Victoria regional director Graeme Baxter said, “In national parks, campfires can only be lit in designated fireplaces, so if there are no designated fire places, then campfires are not permitted. “Our rangers regularly patrol parks, forests and reserves to ensure campers are doing the right thing and to educate visitors on campfire safety. “Before you head out, make sure you plan ahead and check the long-range weather forecast. If in doubt on a hot day, don’t light your campfire. “We are asking people to be vigilant about campfire safety and if they see a campfire that doesn’t look right or is unattended to call 136 186 or 000 if they see a bushfire.” It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure they follow the campfire safety rules: • use a purpose-built fireplace where provided, otherwise light

Summer surf: James and Sean Kennedy from Inverloch enjoyed catching waves to shore at the Inverloch Surf Beach recently.

Cook safe this summer APRON? Check. Tongs? Check. Safety? Check.

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) is urging South Gippslanders to be barbecue safe this summer. Before you throw your bangers on the grill, make sure your barbecue is in good working order. Last summer, firefighters from Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) and CFA responded to more than 200 barbecue fires across the state. “Summer is synonymous with barbecues,” MFB acting chief officer Greg Leach said. “But before you fire up your barbecue, it’s important to do a quick safety check to ensure your lunch doesn’t go up in flames. “Most barbecue fires can be avoided by taking some simple safety precautions. “Check that the gas cylinder, hose and connections are tight and there are no leaks. “Always ensure your barbecue is a safe distance from walls, fences and other property.” CFA chief officer Steve Warrington said unattended barbecues were a common cause of fires. “It’s tempting to turn your back on a barbecue but a few seconds is all it takes for a fire to start,” he said. “The last thing you want is for firefighters to be

called to your house or party this holiday season.” Top 10 barbecue safety tips: 1. Check the LP gas cylinder on your barbecue before turning it on. A cylinder must not be refilled if it hasn’t been tested for more than 10 years or if the cylinder has been damaged; 2. Have your gas cylinder tested by a licensed gasfitter; 3. If needed, exchange your gas cylinder at a reputable supplier; 4. Check the hose to make sure it hasn’t deteriorated; 5. Check the connections to make sure they are tight, and the O rings are in good condition and have not cracked or split; 6. Spray the hose and regulator connections with soapy water every time you connect it to the cylinder. If bubbles form, gas is leaking and you need to check the connections and replace them if they’re damaged; 7. Use your barbecue outdoors, in a clear space; 8. Cook with barbecue utensils and wear an apron to protect yourself from hot fat; 9. Remove excess fat from the barbecue after each use; and 10. Do not use barbecues in windy conditions as the burners may blow out, risking a gas leak.

your campfire in a trench at • least 30cm deep. Ensure the trench is no larger than one square metre in size and the area around the trench is cleared of flammable material up to three metres in all directions, including above the campfire; • branches and logs on your campfire must be less than one metre long. Keep your fire just big enough for warmth and cooking; • never leave a campfire alight or unattended. You must maintain a 50m line of sight of the campfire at all times; • an adult must be present at all times when the campfire is alight; and • ensure your campfire is completely extinguished using water not soil. Under the Forest Act 1958, on the spot fines of up to $476 can be issued for people breaching campfire safety rules and a person can face a maximum penalty of up to $15,872 if the matter is prosecuted in court. For more information go to https://www.ffm.vic.gov. au/permits-andregulations/firerestrictions-and-regulations

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Children share culture

WONTHAGGI North Primary School and Al Taqwa College are enjoying a growing friendship.

Beginning in 2016, the two schools began communicating through a pen pal exchange, allowing students to get to know one another. The Grade 6 students this year have also visited each other’s schools, sharing their cultures and exploring their similarities and differences through fun activities. Students took great pride in hosting each other and conducting guided tours of their schools and local communities. All students agreed that the long bus trip between Wonthaggi and Truganina was well worth the time, and there was certainly a lot of laughter and sharing going on. Students from Wonthaggi North Primary School have learned about traditional Islamic customs and religious beliefs, and visited the mosque adjoining the college. Students and staff from Al Taqwa College have learned about the establishment of Wonthaggi and its coal mining history, and enjoyed a walking tour to the poppet head at Apex Park. The students share the same curriculum and recognised many similarities between their schools. The development and extension of this important and meaningful cross cultural relationship is valued and respected by the students and staff Guided tour: Wonthaggi North Primary School students took the Al Taqwa College stu- across both campuses, and they look forward to dents on a tour of Wonthaggi recently. They are pictured in Apex Park. its ongoing success.

Thrilling camps for teens YEAR 9 students at Wonthaggi Secondary College enjoyed a range of camps recently.

Mt Best ready for bushfire Presented by John Legione from the Bunyip Fire Brigade and Toora Fire Brigade captain Mark Hurst, the event was held to give residents the dos and don’ts for the summer months. Mr Hurst said the workshop went well, with more people than he was expecting attending. “Some people have moved up there in the last few years, so they got a lot out of it,” he said. Mr Hurst is not anticipating a bad fire season for

The tower is proposed for Toorak Road, and will meet the communication needs of local business, domestic, entertainment and community services.

FIVE year-old Gemma Van Den Broek from San Remo is the first child in the region to reach the major milestone of reading 1000 books before starting school.

the region, however the workshop was a good way to get people thinking about the threat of bush fire. Mount Best Hall Committee president Meryl Agars organised the event and said Mr Legione was an excellent speaker and provided information relevant to Mount Best. “He had films to show of Mount Best,” she said. “We also did an exercise with a large map. John told us a hypothetical story, where a fire had started in the north west and the wind was gusting at 20 knots. “The wind was being monitored and was due to change in an hour, so we had to mark the map with

The application received seven objections relating to visual impact, health issues, impact on property values and traffic impacts during construction. In response, the applicant has addressed these concerns. The facility will operate within the Australian Communications and Media Authority health standards mandated by the Australian Radiation Protec-

Macqueen’s Barber Shop exhibition awarded

COAL Creek Community Park and Museum, Korumburra, has been awarded the Tidy Towns Sustainable Communiour location and then say whether you would leave ties Award for Cultural Heritage. or stay. It was a really good exercise.”

Coal Creek won the award for the establishment of the Macqueen’s Barber Shop for its design and curatorial excellence. The project was completed in partnership with the Korumburra District Historical Society after an article was found in their archives relating to Lachie Macqueen and his family. The historical society paid for the renovations while Coal Creek carried out the works and interpretation. Coal Creek’s curatorial officer Zoe Sargent transformed the information provided into two interpretive panels. The panels focus on Lachie Macqueen, his barber shop and his children, with many who aided and survived the Australian war effort in World War Two. South Gippsland Shire Council’s manager economic development and tourism Renae Littlejohn was pleased to see the exhibition recognised. part of modern life.” “It has been fantastic to have Coal Creek awarded Cr Geoff Ellis welcomed the for the Macqueen Barber Shop exhibition. This projplan, and suggested he would like to ect took a lot of work between the historical society see more towers go up in the hills. and Coal Creek, particularly our curatorial officer “We all use our mobile phone. Zoe Sargent who dedicated her efforts towards the I’d like to point out this is the sec- project,” she said. ond tower we have approved for “We would like to thank our volunteers who were Inverloch. It’d be good to have one instrumental in refurbishing the building where the in Krowera. I commend this appli- exhibition has been installed. This was a great team cation, I just wish there were more,” effort and it has been fantastic to be recognised for all the hard work and dedication.” he said.

Ms Agars said the group received advice on what to do before the fire season, how to make a fire plan and how to read the weather. “We also found what to do with pets and the significance of the fire danger ratings,” she said. “I think some went away quite horrified, but others were happy to learn more about the danger of bushfire and felt better prepared afterwards.” Mount Best hasn’t been affected by bushfire in recent years, but was under threat four years ago when bushfires were burning in Yarram, Churchill and Boolarra at the same time.

More coverage for Inverloch BASS Coast Shire Council approved a planning permit for a new telecommunications tower in Inverloch at its December meeting.

Gemma reaches reading milestone

Gemma signed up to state-wide 1000 Books Before School program with West Gippsland Libraries after it was launched at libraries across the region earlier in the year. Gemma is a regular visitor to the South Coast Mobile Library. West Gippsland Libraries chairperson, Bass Coast Shire Cr Geoff Ellis, congratulated Gemma and her family for reaching the target. “This is a fantastic achievement. It will help set Gemma up for future learning and a lifelong love of reading. The more a child is read to in their pre-school years, the better prepared they are when they start to learn how to read and write,” he said. “There are almost 500 children in our region currently working their way through the program, which offers a framework to encourage families to read as often as they can.” 1000 Books Before School is a joint initiative of State Library Victoria and Public Libraries Victoria Network. Parents and caregivers who would like to participate in the program are welcome to register at their local Bass Coast library. West Gippsland Libraries is one of 200 libraries across Victoria participating in this early litCultural experience: Wonthaggi Secondary College offered an arts camp to its Year 9 stu- eracy campaign.

There were two sport camps and an arts camp in Melbourne, as well as a Queensland camp. The Melbourne sport camp took students to Bounce, rock climbing and ice hockey. The highlight was a Circus Oz workshop. As well as watching performers, students tried some circus moves. Arts camps students visited the National Gallery and learned about opera. Students on the Queensland camp went to AquaSplash Inflatable Water Park, Wet ‘n’ Wild, Movieworld and Dreamworld, and stayed at the Super Sports Centre. “It was exciting to go to another state with your friends and we all really enjoyed the theme parks,” student Zali Anderson said. Students who opted not to go on camp had the chance to undertake work experience. As she is going to Japan next year, Kaitlyn Pugh decided to do work experience at the White Road Kindergarten in Wonthaggi, and thoroughly enjoyed the week. “I want to be a teacher and I learned a lot about dents. The camp was held in Melbourne and a highlight was taking a glimpse at the world engaging with students,” she said. of opera.

MORE than 40 people attended a bushfire planning workshop at the Mount Best Hall recently, to learn how to prepare for the fire season.

Love of stories: San Remo resident Gemma Van Den Broek, aged five, receives her certificate from library officer Robyn White after reading 1000 books before starting school.

tion and Nuclear Safety Agency, and construction will be limited to the hours between 7am and 6pm. The tower must be visible to function, but the applicant has submitted a Visual Impact Assessment. “Nobody wants something like this in their backyard, but the coverage is important to all,” Cr Clare Le Serve said. “This is the best plan and it is

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 29

Wonthaggi celebrates 2017 achievements WONTHAGGI Secondary College Dudley Campus finished off 2017 with a presentation day recently. Year 7 students were congratulated in the morning, whilst years 8 and 9 students enjoyed a combined ceremony during the afternoon. The Year 7 award recipients were Nick Raven and Caleb Weir (encouragement), Daniella Mascaros (most improved academic performance), Louise Strickland (most improved effort), Dale Robinson (consistent performer), Tyson AldwellSmith and Shyla Jogi (coordinators’ award), Hannah Simmons and Tess Britt (outstanding effort), Connor Sim (SEAL coordinators’ award), Jasmin Allan and Luke Bramley (outstanding achievement), and Taheisha Koopmans and Caleb Robertson (academic excellence). The Year 8 award recipients were Joshua Beaton and Joshua Pryor (encouragement), Cara Munnings (most improved), Connor Eades and Jim Soumilas (coordinator’s award), Sarah Moulds and Dustan Britt (outstanding effort), Isabel Rooks (SEAL coordinator’s award), Finn Gleeson and Meah Davis (outstanding achievement), Alleena Babu and Zara Hooper (academic excellence). The Year 9 award recipients were Noah T. Anderson and Jorja Hiley (encouragement), Sam Rodhi (most improved), Madison Norris and Cheyenne Sharples (coordinator’s award), Ruby Gage and Emily Lawson (outstanding effort), Casey Sim (constant effort over three years), Grace McRae and Stephanie Watson (leadership), Zali Anderson (SEAL coordinator’s award), Samara Clark and Mayson Vanderkolk (outstanding achievement), and Zali Anderson and Chloe Bramley (academic excellence).

Great achievement: Wonthaggi Secondary College Year 8 students Cara Munnings, Isabel Rooks, Connor Eades, Finn Gleeson, Jim Soumilas, Meah Davis, Sarah Moulds, Zara Hooper and Dustan Britt were recognised for their efforts during the school year. Absent: Joshua Beaton, Joshua Pryor and Aleena Babu.

Outstanding: from left, Samara Clark, Zali Anderson, Chloe Bramley and Mayson Vanderkolk were awarded for their high achievements in Year 9 at Wonthaggi Secondary College. Zali and Chloe were joint dux.

Schools back students LOCAL students are working hard to get back on track.

A partnership between School Focus Youth Services, South Gippsland Student Support Services, Wonthaggi Secondary College, Wonthaggi North Primary School and Bass Coast Specialist School was formed to trial a program called Wonthaggi Pathways and Transition Setting. The aim is to provide flexible learning option and promote engagement from students from years 5 to 9 who may otherwise become disenfranchised with school. The partnership was provided with $90,000 from School Focus Youth Services, which will go towards resources to run the program. The trial is operating from a portable at Wonthaggi North Primary School until a standalone site can be arranged. There is a critical identified need in Bass Coast to support young people at risk of disengaging from education. This is impacting on students’ academic achievement as well as their social and emotional wellbeing. This individualised program will be developed to work with young people to better target their educational and wellbeing needs. It will involve designing a personalised program that takes account of the young person’s cultural, educational, social and emotional circumstances and builds on their strengths, talents and interests. “A flexible learning setting that supports young people to reengage with education is needed in the Bass Coast Shire,” teacher Tom Burdekin said. Wonthaggi Secondary College Dudley Campus principal Ross Bramley said the program was built to instil confidence and self esteem in the students. “We’ve been trialling classes and there have been positive results. We’ve had one girl transition back into her mainstream classes at Dudley, and the students have attended 100 percent of the classes,” he said.

Specialist school farewells six SIX students graduated from Bass Coast Specialist School recently.

Ready to impress: from left, Wonthaggi Secondary College Year 9 students Patrick Harmer, Holly Hughes, Orana Lynch, Zali Anderson and Cooper Smith were well prepared for their mock interview recently.

Teens get set to work STUDENTS prepared to enter the workforce in Wonthaggi recently. Around 220 Year 9 students from Wonthaggi Secondary College had their resumes at the ready to experience what it would be like to go for a job interview. During term three, the students learned how to write a resume as part of their humanities class and were taught how to write application letters in English. They also completed a career plan in term two, in which they explored different career options and discovered which jobs may be available to them. The simulated interview taught the students

how to answer questions in a job interview, what they should wear, and how they should approach a potential employer. Ten local businesses volunteered their time do the interviews, including banks, Landcare, Watersure, police, the library, Bass Coast Shire Council, supermarkets, and retail premises. Managed Individual Pathways coordinator Carron Forwood said the program offered experience for students who may be joining the workforce in the next year or two. Ms Forwood said students in the past had also received jobs as a result of this program, with some retailers actually looking to recruit new employees on the day.

The graduates were Mitchell, Ron, Tullen, Damien, Jake and Robert, and their family and friends celebrated their achievements at a graduation ceremony at the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club on December 14. “These six young men have impressed me in the development, progress and achievements over the years of their schooling. Some of the students have attended the school since it opened in 2009,” principal Edith Gray said. Representatives from the local Lions and Rotary clubs attended, as well as Mick Green from Drift Media. Mr Green helped create the international award winning short film orchestrated by the students of Bass Coast Specialist School. Past and present staff and representatives from Viatech sponsored the night. Bass MLA Brian Paynter drove from parliament to speak to the graduation party, hand out presents to the outgoing school captains and announce the 2018 Celebration: Robert and Jake were thrilled school captains. The school congratulated Bohe and Matilda for to complete Year 12 at Bass Coast Specialist School recently. being named school captains.

Funds boost road safety program ROADS are being upgraded as part of the Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery program. The local roads to receive funding are West Creek’s Loch Wonthaggi Road (total project cost $350,000), Krowera’s Sheepways Road (total project cost $270,000), and Ventnor’s

Anchorage Road (total cost $110,406) and Ventnor Beach Road (total cost $160,000). Flinders MP Greg Hunt hopes the upgrades would help reduce fatal car accidents. “Reducing road trauma is a responsibility for us all – it’s about safer drivers, safer cars and safer roads,” he said. “With so many projects

nearing completion and many more ready to start, the Road to Recovery program reaffirms this government’s commitment to making local roads safer and reducing this nation’s road toll. “This ongoing funding commitment will ensure local councils are better able to decide what local roads are priorities and how New captains: Bass MLA Brian Paynter and Bass Coast Specialist School principal Edith money should be spent.” Gray congratulated 2018 school captains Bohe and Matilda.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Farming Insight

Farmers’ confidence rises By Sarah Vella FARMERS across Victoria are looking to 2018 with optimism, with strong positive sentiment reported across all agricultural sectors, but particularly sheep and dairy. According to the latest Rabobank rural confidence survey, Victorian farmers have the highest rural confidence levels in the nation. Rabobank regional manager for Southern Victoria and Tasmania Hamish McAlpin said the positive sentiment prevailing across the state was largely due to late winter rains and timely follow up rainfall. He said good seasonal conditions and an improved price outlook had helped dairy farmers to catch up after two very tough years. “Although there is a fair bit of focus on the Murray Goulburn sale process, which is creating some short term uncertainty,” Mr McAlpin said. Of all farmers in the state, sheep producers were the most bullish about their prospects. “Lamb prices have been strong for a number of years now while wool prices continue to hit new records,” he said. In the beef sector, confidence levels were also

Don’t overlook grassfire danger GRASSFIRES can be just as dangerous as bushfires.

They can start and spread rapidly, travelling at speeds of up to 25km/h, quickly threatening lives and property. Reduce your risk by slashing, mowing, grazing and spraying near your home and assets, and create fuel breaks. If you’re caught in a grassfire move to somewhere with minimal vegetation, such as a ploughed or well grazed paddock. If you’re using ma-

chinery with an internal combustion or heat engine, such as tractors or slashers, within nine metres of grass, crops, stubble, weeds or other vegetation, it’s important that you ensure the machinery is: • free from any faults and mechanical defects that could start a fire; • fitted with an approved spark arrestor; and • carrying a working water fire extinguisher or knapsack of at least nine litres capacity. Know what to do on hot, dry, windy days and plan for all situations.

strong and well up on the previous quarter, Mr McAlpin said. “This has been aided by the recent lift in beef prices as restocker demand has reignited following widespread rain in parts of Queensland and northern New South Wales,” he said. Waratah Bay beef producer Brad Gale said if conditions stay as they are, he will be happy. “I am about half confident that it will do that,” he said. The cattle produced by Mr Gale are sold directly to the abattoir. He said in the last couple of months, prices for cattle were holding however they had dropped a long way off what they were this time last year. “Compared to where we were four years ago, we are still quite good,” he said. “As long as they don’t go down any more.” After a dry October and November, which stunted hay growth, Mr Gale said the recent rainfall was “desperately needed”. “It all looks good again now, but we have been hard hit with caterpillars, in some places we probably lost half our hay,” he said. “We always get them at Waratah Bay, you can pretty much guarantee them every year but this year we had them at Fish Creek as well. “They are definitely more widespread and worse than they normally are.” Mr Gale said the recent rain had boosted grass growth enough to make more hay now than they would have had. “We have gone from one extreme to the other this year,” he said.

Could be good: Waratah Bay beef producer Brad Gale said the upcoming summer months will be tolerable if mild temperatures and rainfall continue.

Improve quad bike safety QUAD bike riders and industry can make a submission to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) quad bike safety investigation, with proposed reforms outlined in an Issues Paper released recently.

“Tragically, 114 people have been killed in Australia in quad bike accidents since 2011. The ACCC is investigating a range of possible options to improve quad bike safety and prevent further deaths and injuries in the community,” ACCC Commissioner Mick Keogh said. “A key question is whether a safety standard should be introduced for quad bikes under the Australian Consumer Law.” No deaths have occurred due to quad bikes in South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires since 2013. The ACCC Quad Bike Safety Taskforce is seeking feedback from stakeholders including manufacturers, dealers, workplace safety experts, researchers, farmers and quad bike users on a range of issues and options, such as:

• mandating specific design requirements and construction of quad bikes, including features that reduce the risk for children riding quad bikes designed for adults; • introducing a safety rating system and the testing of quad bike models before they are sold in Australia; and • mandating safety warning information consumers would receive when buying a new quad bike. “The ACCC recognises that quad bikes are important vehicles for many Australians who rely on them for work on farms, or use them recreationally, which is why it is important for stakeholders to have their say,” Mr Keogh said. The ACCC will be making a draft recommendation to government early this year, with a final recommendation to be made mid-2018. The Issues Paper and information on the consultation process is on the ACCC website. If you currently own or ride a quad bike, the ACCC strongly recommends that you follow safety advice on Product Safety Australia.

From March, WorkSafe will add the use of roll over protection devices to its list of appropriate risk control measures, which includes helmets, training, appropriate maintenance, and ensuring the quad bikes are used according to the manufacturers’ instructions. “This means that if an inspector identifies a quad bike being used in a workplace where there is a risk of roll over, and an operator protection device is not fitted, an improvement notice requiring the employer to control the risk may be issued,” a WorkSafe spokesperson said. “As with any WorkSafe improvement notice, it will give employers options to control the risk, which may include substituting the quad bike for a more terrain appropriate vehicle or fitting roll over protection. “A major public awareness campaign to promote the quad bike rebate scheme is currently under way in regional media and will run until February to ensure employers are given every opportunity to make use of the scheme before enforcement begins.”

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 31

situations vacant

SITUATIONS VACANT

Management Accountant 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

Fixed Term 18 months Part Time 24 Hours per Week Located in idyllic Foster, with beautiful beaches and National Parks on the doorstep, you will have the best of the South Gippsland and Bass Coast region to hand. We are seeking someone with a tertiary qualiﬁcation in an accounting discipline and proven ability in a ﬁnancial or management accounting role. Reporting directly to the General Manager Corporate Services you will be primarily responsible for assisting the Finance Team in producing the Corporation’s budget. South Gippsland Water is an equal opportunity employer committed to developing a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with respect and feel valued and supported. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit www.sgwater.com. au for a copy of the Position Description and for a full outline of the application process.

Motor Vehicle Technician An exciting opportunity exists for a qualified Technician to join Leongatha Motors. You will be a self-motivated individual with the ability and desire to learn new skills working in an exciting team orientated environment. As a Technician you will be required to carry out servicing and mechanical duties; identify and rectify faults in vehicle stability, balancing, repairs and general servicing as directed, to a standard that enhances the Company, its products and services. The successful candidate will require: • Qualifications as a Motor Mechanic. • Ability to take direction and be part of a larger team. • High standards in customer service and customer care. • Capacity to problem solve issues and find suitable resolutions • Excellent work ethic and ability to strive for goals • Current driver’s licence • Ability to work unsupervised For further information, please contact Andrew McMahon on 0408 748 251 or Russell Hemming 0419 482 608, alternatively please forward your cover letter and resumé including two professional referees in confidence to: andrewmcmahon@gmg.net.au Russell.Hemming@leongathamotors.com.au Leongatha Motors is an equal opportunity employer Applications close Thursday, January 25 LMCT: 10285 & LMCT:11276

Please contact Lee Hamilton on 03 5682 0471 for enquiries relating to employment at South Gippsland Water, or Jessica Armstrong on 0400 056 951 for speciﬁc information on this role. Applications close Monday 15th January 2018 at 5pm.

Position Vacancies Bass Coast Health Bass Coast Health is seeking to recruit to the following positions:

HITH Nurse Fixed-Term Part-Time commencing ASAP to 30/06/18

Combined Medical-Surgical Unit Permanent Part-Time 40 hours per fortnight Fixed-Term 32 hours per fortnight January 2018 to 28/04/18 Fixed-Term 32 hours per fortnight January 2018 to 31/06/18 For full position details including position descriptions and how to apply please visit the employment section on our website: www.basscoasthealth.org.au

Latrobe Regional Hospital is at the forefront of public healthcare in the Gippsland region in eastern Victoria, delivering extensive medical, surgical, cancer care, allied health and mental health services. The Latrobe Regional Hospital has created a number of exciting employment opportunities within our new facilities including a Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory, Endoscopy suites, Emergency Department and In-patient units. We are currently seeking Registered Nurses to work within our beautifully appointed, purpose built Bass Unit (32 Bed Medical Unit) that is due to open in early 2018. For further information on these opportunities, please contact Heidi Knott, General Manager Inpatient Services on telephone (03) 5173 8777.

A renowned Indian restaurant in Leongatha, VIC requires a qualiﬁed and reasonably experienced Cook. Salary $52,000 to $55,000 depending on skills and experience. The position is available for immediate start. The successful candidate must be: • Reliable and hard working • Punctual and ﬂexible • Friendly with good communication skills • Able to work as a team with excellent organisational skills Email your resumé: samulepreetindia@ yahoo.com

Email your adverts to The Star public notice

REGISTERED NURSES

QUALIFIED COOK

MARINE LICENCE COURSE Vic. Boat Licence with Jetski endorsement

INVERLOCH

public notice INTERESTED in going fishing in a boat. If you can help launch and retrieve call 0418113214.

public notice

ads@thestar.com.au

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

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays public notice

public notice

Saturday, January 6 1pm - 5pm

COWES Wednesday, January 10 6pm - 10pm BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Phone Bob: 0417 524 005 Approved TSV course www.abcboating.com ABN 43080057923

Expression of Interest for appointment to the Port Albert Racecourse and Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Incorporated Do you want to play a role in managing a valuable community asset? The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), on behalf of the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change is seeking expressions of interest from people willing to nominate for a three year appointment to the Port Albert Racecourse & Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Incorporated. This committee is made up of volunteers who are responsible for guiding the management, protection and development of the reserve, on behalf of the community.

Tarwin Lower Hall 29 River Drive

MARKET MONDAY JANUARY 8 7.30am to 2pm Numerous stalls of new and old wares, produce, clothing, plants, food and BBQ Stall Bookings Brian 0490 970 377

To ensure the best possible management of this reserve, applicants will be shortlisted based on their skills, experience and knowledge in one or more of the following areas: • Secretarial / Administration • Facilities / Project Management • Environmental / Biodiversity Conservation • Business Management / Financial Planning • Sport / Recreation • Community Engagement • Tourism / Marketing Expressions of Interest forms are available from Kylie Douglas from DELWP Gippsland Regional Oﬃce, 71 Hotham Street, Traralgon, Ph (03) 5172 2525 or email kylie.douglas@delwp.vic.gov.au Expressions of Interest should be lodged at the DELWP Oﬃce by 5:00pm Friday 19 January 2018. www.delwp.vic.gov.au Customer Service Centre 136 186

VG0094

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

for rent

marriage celebrant

deaths

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

PAM HERRALD

RANDS - Martin Lester (Marty). 1954 - 2017 Marty passed away over the Christmas period. His belief that he will join his loved ones in the celestial spheres gives us comfort. His caring and special nature will be sadly missed. Sue, Leigh and Katy Dyson, Lily Fagioli, Josh Slater.

5662 2553 0438 097 181

Wendy Rutjens

Weddings ~ Funerals ~ Namings

0429 688 123

for sale

MOWERS We stock the largest range of New push and ride-on mowers in South Gippsland, including - Honda,Victa, Greenﬁeld, Deutscher, Cub Cadet, MTD, Masport, Toro, Yard Machines & Rover from $149. Professional repairs and service for ALL mower makes and models. Also stocking a large range of parts and accessories. We also have a large range of secondhand mowers available.

MOTORCYCLES & POWER EQUIPMENT

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

Ph: 5662 2028

www.marriottsmpe.com.au

EXOTIC and native kiln dried timber suitable for furniture and hobby. Ph: 5681-2261. FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408980-711, A/H 56625175. SHED! 9m x 15m x 4.5m (30’ x 50’ x 15’). Open front shed in large 5m bays for better storage, $13,150. Ph: 0413-104820. 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.

free SLATE PAVERS, natural stone, 300 x 200 x 10 to 20mm thick, approx. 130; 400 x 400 x 10-20mm thick, approx. 150. Ph: 0400-556106.

livestock BORDER Leicester, Southdown and Poll Dorset rams, flock registered, OB accredited. Well grown and bred. Can deliver. 0428-356376. BULLS for hire or for sale. Friesian, Angus, Hereford, Limo or Jersey. All sound young bulls. Hire or sale. Phone 0447-331762.

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

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

e: rutjenswendy@gmail.com

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

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

bereavement thanks WILSON - Donald John “Don” “Wils”. 31.7.1961 to 4.11.2017 We wish to extend our sincere thanks for the love, prayers and support that we have received. For the flowers, cards, meals and offers of help, we thank you. Grateful thanks to MDU and Stony Creek football and netball clubs. It was wonderful to see the clubs come together to cater for Don at the Meeniyan Hall. Tarnya and Flo Wilson and all the family. “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and always dear.”

in memoriam OLLE - Graham. 28.3.1929 - 31.12.2007 Loving memories. Elaine, Bev, Denise, Rhonda, Jeff, and families.

deaths ANDERSON - Mark Stanley George. 15.07.1957 - 28.12.2017 After a brave battle with leukaemia. Aged 60. Youngest son of Herbert William (Bert) and Enid Margaret Wallis (Peg) (both dec). Loved brother of Denyse (Tucker), Christine, and Peter. Brother-in-law to Ron and Pauline, friend to Di. A funeral service for Mark is being held today, Wednesday, January 3, 2018) in Kyneton. HARTHAUER - Anna. 05.02.1931 - 28.12.2017 Late of Fish Creek and Meeniyan. Loved wife of Hans (dec). Much loved mother of Erika and Petra, mother-in-law of Pud and Paddy. Loved grandmother of Paul and Janet, Tania and Michael, Louise and Shayne, Kristy and Ben. Loved great grandmother of Emily and Johnny, Taylah and Daniel, Matthew and Eleanor, Jye, Beau, Rebecca, Angus, Jada and Lilly. Forever in our hearts. ‘Wir lieben dich’

THOMAS - Graeme. Loved cousin of Trevor, Yvonne, Sharon, Robert and Rebecca, and also Glenn, Peg, Leigh, Kylie and Shannon. Many happy times to remember. THOMAS - Graeme. Our dearest friend and neighbour of over 40 years. You will be sadly missed. We will hold our memories and your Please see next week’s stories forever in our paper or Handley hearts. Funeral Services’ Rest in peace. Facebook page for Our deepest sympathy to Margaret and family. funeral notice. Joyce, Rhys, THOMAS - Kenneth Tony, Sheree, Archie and Robert (Graeme). 02.12.1938 - 25.12.2017 Kade Livingstone. Passed away peacefully THOMAS - Kenneth at Koorooman House, Robert (Graeme). We would like to express Leongatha. Beloved son of Ken our sincere condolences (dec) and Vera, and to Margaret, Dale, Chris, brother of Mervyn (dec). Cheryle, Michelle and their families on the loss Loving husband of of Graeme. Margaret. Our thoughts are with Loved dad to Dale, you at this sad time. Chris, Cheryle and From the MDUFNC Michelle. committee and Adored Pop to 10 members. grandchildren and 4 WILSON - Kate Alyce great grandchildren. (Rabbit). Aged 30. ‘Hooroo Big Fella’ To Our Darling Kate. THOMAS - Kenneth R. You were a beautiful, “Graeme”. loving daughter and 25.12.2017 sister with a heart of Loved husband of gold. You are now at peace and your struggle Margaret. Caring dad of Chris, is over. Cheryle, Michelle and Always in our hearts and memories forever. Dale. Pop Tom to Claire, Kate, Love always. Willis, Ben, Olivia, Beau, Dad, Mum, Dale, Bec Emily. and family, Ted, Daniel Poppy Tom to Liam, and Ruby. x x x Jordan, Jaslin, Riley WILSON - Kate. and Tyler. A beautiful soul too No more pain my precious for this earth. darling. Fly high beautiful girl, Sleep peacefully. you will be sadly missed by us all. Till we meet again. Love Carmen, Chloe, Margaret. Kaycie, Lachlan, THOMAS - Graeme. Connor, Brock and Dad, Poppy, Graeme Molly. (The Big Fella). WILSON - Kate. Treasured memories of Dear Katie a man larger than life. You will walk beside us Full of character and every day, love and a bit of (B.S.). You lived a full life and Unseen, unheard but you did it your way. We always near. are the lucky ones to Loved and missed and very dear. have been part of it. Gone too soon. Love always Dale, Resting now. Sarah, Jas, Jordy and We will hold loving Liam (Jack). memories of your kind THOMAS - Graeme. and gentle soul. I would not exchange In our hearts always. the sorrows of my Our thoughts are with heart for the joys of the your loving family. multitude. And I would Glenn, Jane, Jordan not have the tears that and Zara Gardner, and sadness make to flow families. from my every part turn into laughter. funerals I would that my life A remain a tear and a HARTHAUER Funeral Mass for the smile... A tear to unite me with repose of the soul of those of a broken heart; Mrs Anna Harthauer will a smile to be a sign of be offered at St Kevin’s Catholic Church, Geale my joy in existence. Street, Meeniyan on Thank you Graeme. Friday, January 5, Rest peacefully. 2018 commencing at I’ll make sure Mum is 10.30am. looked after. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of Mass Cheryle. for the Meeniyan Lawn THOMAS - Graeme. Cemetery. Loved father to Michelle and father-in-law to If desired, donations may be made to South Jack. Gippsland Hospital, Pop to Ben, Olivia and Foster. Envelopes will Sam. be available at the Great grandfather to service. Riley and Tyler. Sleep peacefully. Michelle, family.

Left Section 2: Korrine and district annual tennis tournament doubles winners Oscar Gibson-Goldsmith and Levi Patterson of Inverloch with runners up Ned Brown and Zac Mabilia of Wonthaggi.

deaths

Jack

and

Right Section 3: doubles runners up Ella Jarman, Inverloch and Amelia Crooks, Phillip Island with winners Levi Boost and Felix Bathgate, Phillip Island.

funerals THOMAS - A memorial service to celebrate the life of Kenneth Robert (Graeme) Thomas will be held at Meeniyan Town Hall on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 commencing at 11.30am. A service for burial at Meeniyan Cemetery will precede the above service, commencing at 10.30am. All welcome.

Section 4: doubles winners Archie Bester and Riley McLeod, Phillip Island with runners up Billy Dixon, Poowong and Kordelia Kossena, Phillip Island.

Juniors impress in annual tournament

KORRINE and District Junior Tennis Association held its annual tournament on December 17.

Scott and Sharon Anderson CARING & PERSONAL 24 HOUR SERVICE

More than 40 players competed across the day in singles and doubles competition. Congratulations to all players who showed great competitiveness and sportsmanship throughout the day. Thank you to the committee and volunteers for their efforts and making the tournament such a success. The Pennant singles winner was Luke Nicholson, Westernport and the runner up was Flynn McMahon, Westernport. Pennant doubles winners were Xander Broadbear and Flynn McMahon, Westernport and runners up were Matthew and Luke Nicholson, Westernport. Section 1 singles winner was Seth Cummins, Inverloch and runner up was Jamieson Schmidt, Inverloch. Section 1 doubles winners were Dylan Shone and Seth Cummins, Inverloch and runners up were Kristos Kossena and Cailen Lone, Phillip Island. Section 2 singles winner was Zac Mabilia, Wonthaggi and runner up was Flynn Peters. Section 2 doubles winner was Oscar Gibson-Goldsmith and Levi Patterson, Inverloch and runners up were Ned Brown and Zac Mabilia, Wonthaggi. Section 3 singles winner was Levi Boost, Phillip Island and runner up was Sarah Wines. Section 3 doubles winners were Levi Boost and Felix Bathgate, Phillip Island and runners up were Ella Jarman, Inverloch and Amelia Crooks, Westernport. Section 4 singles winner was Ciaran Toomey. Inverloch and runner up was Riley McLeod, Phillip Island. Section 4 doubles winners were Archie Bester and Riley McLeod, Phillip Island and runners up were Kordelia Kossena, Phillip Island and Billy Dixon, Poowong.

Pre-paid & pre-arranged funeral plans available

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

Section 4 singles: winner Ciaran Toomey of Inverloch with runner up Riley McLeod of Phillip Island.

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 33

BOWLS | SPORT

thestar.com.au Inverloch INVERLOCH’S Monthly Triples event on Wednesday, December 20, the last for 2017, was contested by 20 teams and the event was sponsored by The Wonthaggi Club. Two 12 end and two 10 end games were played and no team managed to win all four games. Winners, with three wins, a draw and 61 points up, were Mal Marshall’s team, Rob Howard and Reg Varty. Runners up, with three wins, a loss and 50 points up were Nic Van Grunsven,

(Skip) John Arnold and Bruce Corrigan. Best first game went to Wayne Parks (Skip), Dave Roberts and Frank Seaton. Best second game was won by Paul Davis (Skip), Bryan Hensley and Trevor Steer. Best third game was won by Paul Griffiths’ team from Tarwin Lower. The Monthly Triples event will return on Wednesday, January 17. Mixed Social Bowls will start on Thursday, January 4, from 12.30pm. Visitors are most welcome. Names are to be in by 11.30am.

The Summer Bowls program has been organised to provide an alternative activity for young and not so young holiday makers. The 10 session program will run throughout January from 4pm to 7pm. The sessions covering this week are being run on Wednesday, January 3, and Saturday, January 6. If you have friends or grandchildren visiting, why not bring them around the club for a game of barefoot bowls? As the Club Championship matches work their way to finals, another Championship has been decided. Against last season’s runners up, Wayne and Janis Parks, it was Lorraine Dowson and Gavan Butler who

were the challengers for the title of Mixed Pairs Champions. Congratulations to Lorraine and Gavan for their win over the still reigning runners up, Wayne and Janis. Friday Night Meals recommence for the New Year on Friday, January 5. Names are to be on the board by Thursday morning if you are planning to attend. The Men’s Champion of Champions event is to be held at Inverloch on January 6, when Frank Seaton will contest for the title for the South Gippsland Bowls Region. Come along to see a great display of bowling and support Frank. Play starts at 9.30am.

South Gippsland Pennant Bowls

RESULTS from Saturday, December 23. Division 1: Inverloch White 4-60 lost to Leongatha 12-76; Wonthaggi 2-58 lost to Inverloch Blue 14-80; Phillip Island Blue 16-99 defeated Fish Creek 0-43; Korumburra 14-98 defeated Phillip Island White 2-71. Ladder

Phillip Island Blue .......123 Inverloch Blue ...............94 Leongatha ......................88 Korumburra ..................78 Phillip Island White ........66 Wonthaggi .......................51 Fish Creek .......................50 Inverloch White26 -187

+233 +93 +54 +21 -35 -68 -111

Division 2: San Remo 14-76 defeated Corinella 2-56; Mirboo North 2-56 lost to Lang Lang 14-79; Phillip Island 2-55 lost to Wonthaggi 14-63; Toora 1670 defeated Tarwin Lower 0-53. Ladder

Corinella.......................118 +203 Mirboo North ................80 -23 Phillip Island..................76 +12 San Remo .......................75 -4 Toora ...............................74 -59 Wonthaggi .......................57 +8 Tarwin Lower ..................48 -34 Lang Lang .......................48 -103

Second: runners up in the Inverloch Monthly Triples were Nic Van Grunsven, Bruce Corrigan and John Arnold.

Division 3: Inverloch 14-73 defeated Korumburra 2-54; Loch and District 1479 defeated San Remo 2-56; Foster 16-15 defeated Port Welshpool 0-0 (Forfeit); Leongatha 4-69 lost to Meeniyan12-73. Ladder:

Champion title: the Mixed Pairs Club ChampiOutstanding trio: congratulations to Rob How- ons at Inverloch are Lorraine Dowson and Gavan ard, Malcolm Marshall and Reg Varty on winning Butler, who defeated Wayne and Janis Parks to the Monthly Triples at Inverloch recently. claim the title.

Leongatha MIDWEEK pennant on Tuesday, December 19 saw Division 1 away to Inverloch and unlucky not to have come home with the spoils, going down to the Seagull ladies 63 to 65 shots. J. Miller’s team lost 24 to 25 shots, R. James’team won 24 to 14 shots and M. Pearson’s team lost 15 to 26 shots. Division 3 was away to Korumburra and again unsuccessful losing 48 to 105 shots: A. Lye’s team lost 10 to 51 shots, J. Sing’s team lost 16 to 30 shots and S. Crouch’s

team lost 22 to 24 shots. The next round will be on January 16 with Division 1 at home to Foster and Division 3 also home to Phillip Island. Wednesday monthly triples winners were J. Newcombe (s), G. Cornell and P. Forest and runners-up were J. Turner (s), Fay Turner and Dot Jarvie, with the best last game going to R. Jackson (s), A. Rayson and P. Ellison. Sponsors for the day were Leongatha Travel and Cruise and the club thanks them for their valued support. The next monthly triples will be on Wednesday, January 24 and the sponsors will

Runners up: coming in second in the Leongatha Travel and Cruise December Triples, were from left, Dot Jarvis, Fay Turner and John Turner (skip) with sponsor Jill Carmody.

Ladies State Singles CONDUCTED over three weeks in December, this event began with the first two rounds at Meeniyan played in ideal bowling conditions. The quarter finals the following week at Fish Creek saw four great matches with all players scoring over 20 shots. The semi finals in the

afternoon were also close games with M. Forrest just getting the better of M. Pearson, and A. Hackett winning over L. Gallyot. The final at Meeniyan on Monday, December 18, saw Marilyn Forrest (San Remo) win over Angie Hackett (Leongatha). In all, the spectators enjoyed three great days of bowling. Many thanks to Meeniyan

be Mountain View Village. Saturday pennant, December 23 saw Division 1 away to Inverloch White and came away the overall winners 76 to 60 shots: R. Trotman’s team lost 18 to 22 shots, W. Walker’s team also lost 18 to 25 shots and salvation came for Leongatha with J. Hall’s team winning 40 to 13 shots. Division 3 was home to Meeniyan but went down 69 to 73 shots: J. Turner’s team won 26 to 23 shots, J. Pendergast’s team won 23 to 20 shots and G. Drury’s team lost 20 to 30 shots. Division 4 travelled to

San Remo but again went down overall 46 to 80 shots: Trish McCormack’s team lost 20 to 23 shots, G. Vansinderen’s team lost 11 to 30 shots and Glenda Trotman’s team lost 15 to 27 shots. Round 10, January 13 sees Division 1 at home to Phillip Island Blue, Division 3 away to San Remo and Division 4 at home to Korumburra. The winner of the Christmas hamper was Glenda Trotman and runner-up was John Cocking. Well done Glenda and John. This will be my last report until pennant resumes ‘Jackhigh’.

Winners: the Leongatha Travel and Cruise December Triples champs were, from left, Graeme Cornell, Peter Forest, sponsor Jill Carmody, and John Newcombe (skip).

Inverloch103 +130 Leongatha83 +6 Foster79 +25 Korumburra79 -27 San Remo78 +20

Meeniyan72 +6 Loch and District50 -22 Port Welshpool32 -138

Division 4: San Remo 16-80 defeated Leongatha 0-46; Wonthaggi Gold 1470 defeated Inverloch 2-66; Korumburra 14-77 defeated Wonthaggi Blue 2-56; Tarwin Lower 0-60 lost to Phillip Island 16-91. Ladder

Wonthaggi Gold ..........116 Phillip Island................102 Inverloch ........................99 Wonthaggi Blue .............77 San Remo ........................68 Korumburra .....................44 Leongatha........................38 Tarwin Lower ..................32

+190 +89 +124 +111 -21 -161 -146 -186

Division 5: Loch and District 4-61 lost to Meeniyan 12-66; Corinella 16-86 defeated Inverloch Blue 0-49; Inverloch White 16-83 defeated Lang Lang 0-47; Toora 16-15 defeated Mirboo North Purple 0-0 (Forfeit); Mirboo North White 16-102 defeated Phillip Island 0-41; Foster 14-78 defeated Fish Creek 2-58. Ladder

Meeniyan......................116 Corinella.......................110 Mirboo North White .....96 Foster..............................88 Fish Creek .......................87 Inverloch White...............79 Phillip Island ...................76 Inverloch Blue.................75 Loch and District.............61 Toora ...............................30 Lang Lang .......................26 Mirboo North Purple .......20

+150 +212 +174 +119 +103 -38 -22 +2 -47 -187 -213 -253

Round eight (Division 1) Kiss of Death tips: Inverloch White (home) will be no match for a rampaging Leongatha winning by 28 shots. Wonthaggi (home) will inflict Inverloch Blue’s third loss on the trot with a win by

Foster

Team mates: Alan Masson from Fish Creek Bowls Club and Ray Parsons from Foster Bowls Club were battling it out in the Division 5 pennant on Saturday, December 23 at Foster.

Good bowl: Bob Constantine from Fish Creek Bowls Club rolls one down the green at the Foster Bowls Club recently, playing against Fish Creek in the Division 5 pennant.

and Fish Creek clubs, and to all the markers and umpires for giving up their time so close to the festive season.

Top two: from left, San Remo’s Marilyn Forrest was the winner of the Ladies State Singles event, with Leongatha’s Angie Hackett runner up.

Bowling pals: Jose Bohn and Mark Taylor from the Foster Bowls Club were happy to be playing in the Division 5 pennant against Fish Creek at Foster on Saturday, December 23.

19 shots. Phillip Island Blue (home) will continue on its merry way with a massive win of 54 shots against Fish Creek. Korumburra (home) will regroup after its recent loss and cement its place in the four with a solid 15 shot win against Phillip Island White.

Meeniyan

ON Monday, December 18, Meeniyan hosted the ladies State Singles with Marilyn Forrest, San Remo defeating Angie Hackett, Leongatha. Midweek pennant was an away game to Toora with one rink getting the points but overall a loss. Pennant resumes on January 16 with a home game to Wonthaggi. The six week corporate bowls pairs concluded on December 19 with a special meal prepared by club members. This popular event begins in early January with triples teams on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Ray Corry is the contact. Saturday, December 23, pennant was an away game for Division 3 against second team Leongatha. A five shot win with one rink up was a very satisfying result. Division 5 was away to Loch and had a similar result with a five shot win. Saturday pennant resumes on January 13 with threes home to Loch and fives away to Inverloch White. The men’s pairs final between Alan Hanks and last year’s champion Peter Williams was played yesterday (Tuesday, January 2). Tomorrow (Thursday, January 4) is the Monthly Triples with the 3, 4, 5 bankers triples on Monday, January 15. Meeniyan Bowls Club hopes everyone had a great Christmas, and wished bowlers and friends a happy and healthy 2018. Upshot 2.

Fifths introduced in Alberton League FIFTHS will be included in Alberton Football Netball League’s junior structure this year. The change in the structure will see to it that families can all play football and netball together on a Saturday. The Fifths are categorised as children under 11 and three months as of January 1. Players who turn 12 before October 1 will not be eligible, and eight years old is the minimum age. The games will start at 9am and will not be scored. The games will be four 10 minute quarters. Fourths will be back this year, with games starting at 9.55am. Girls can play in the Fourths and Fifths. The Thirds matches will kick off at 11.10am. Free registration is available for Fourths and Fifths players. Entry will be free to all venues before 9.30am.

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

SPORT | GOLF Leongatha ON Saturday 122 golfers, including a number of visitors enjoyed the lush fairways and perfect greens with some good scores produced despite the high winds. Best score of the day of 42 points was carded by Colin Moyle to win the Overall and D Grade events. A Grade was taken out by Chris Hams with 40 points, Anthony Sparkes

thestar.com.au

won B Grade with 38 points in a countback and Nick Lafferty took out C Grade also with 38 points and also in a countback. There were two brilliant eagles scored, one by Daniel Carcour, who had a great eagle three on the long par five sixth hole and John Wheatley, who had an eagle two on the par four third hole, which also gave him the Pro Pin on that hole. Balls were won by Fred Debono, Jon Smith,

Golf skills: young golfer Nathan Page from Moonee Ponds had a lesson at Leongatha Golf Club with the club’s general manager Josh Hall on Saturday. Nathan has a lesson with Josh every six weeks, particularly in the middle of tournament season.

Leongatha ladies WEDNESDAY, December 20, saw the start of the Summer Mixed Stableford

events. Twenty nine players took part. The overall winner Karen Orford just pipped Dot Stubbs on a count

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

DECEMBER Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

3 WED

4 THUR

5 FRI

6 SAT

7 SUN

8 MON

9 TUE

0124 0645 1304 1902

1.61 0.73 1.40 0.14

0220 0746 1405 2001

1.69 0.64 1.46 0.10

0313 0842 1500 2056

1.74 0.55 1.50 0.11

0401 0934 1554 2147

1.75 0.47 1.52 0.15

0447 1026 1646 2236

1.73 0.40 1.51 0.22

0531 1115 1740 2322

1.69 0.35 1.48 0.31

0614 1202 1837

1.63 0.33 1.43

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

Philippe du Plessis, Greg Ellt, Nathan Wardle, Kevin Castwood, Ted Bruinewoud, John Wheatley, Nicholas Hill, Ron Paice, Darren Read, Bryan McCorkell, Tyler Marotti, Colin Bear, Rod Hayes, Andrew Westaway, Merv Stubbs, Chris Leaver, Gary Travaglia, Frank Gill, Nicholas Perrin, Brenton Di Cocco, John Housey, Ian Watson, John Eabry, Darrell Prior, Daniel Carcour, Duart Perrin and Jesse De Hey. NTPs were Philippe du Plessis on the 14th hole and John Moor on the 16th. Next Saturday is a Stableford competition with the Monthly Medal being played on Saturday week,

January 13. On Tuesday of last week, Chris Lever had an outstanding round, hitting 16 of the 18 holes in regulation, to amass 41 points and win the Overall and A Grade events. B Grade was taken out by Steven Forrester with 38 points and Coralie Baker had 36 points to win C Grade. Balls were won by Doug Clemann, Daniel Ruffin, Ross Mathews, Tom Sorrell, Russell Williams, Gerry Carcour, Doug Carter, Neale Gillin, Simon Drummond and Ian Murchie. Craig Hams was NTP on the 16th hole. A big field of 107 golfers contested last Thursday’s Stableford

Social game: Leongatha’s Tony, Danny and Mark Dwyer enjoyed a round of golf at the Leongatha Golf Club on Saturday afternoon. back, both scored 37 points. Results: A Grade: Dot Stubbs (18) 37 points. B Grade: Susan Wylie (24) 33. C Grade and Overall Best Score: Karen Orford (40) 37. DTL balls: Maryanne Gartner 34, Colin Bear and Toni West 33, Coral Gray and Melinda Willder 32, and Wendy Parker, Bec Thomas and Jan Brownlie all with 31 points. Nearest the pin: 14th Rebecca Thomas and 16th Jan Brownlie. Nine Hole Competition: Congratulations to Karen Murchie on her first win in the nine hole event with a great score of 21 points. Down the line ball went to Gwen Chapman with 16 points. Saturday, December 23: Thirteen women played a Stableford competition. The winner was Karen Bear, playing off 35, with a very good score of 38 points. Down thee line balls went to Wendy Parker 36, Jan Brownlie and Maryanne Gartner both with 35 and Helen Fraser 33 points c/b. Nearest the pin on 16th was Toni West (9.2m), Wednesday, December 27: There were 30 entrants in the Mixed Stableford event. A Grade winner was

Walter Taberner (15) 37 points on a count back. B Grade winner with the best score of the day was Karen Castledine Briggs (33) with 39 points. Down the line balls went to Louise Schache 38, Greg Wicks 37, Fay Quilford, Bryan Sword and Anthony Brown with 36, Loris Clark 35, Bec Thomas, Toni West and Maryanne Gartner with 34 and Veasna Kong with 33 c/b Nearest the pin, played excellent shots to finish very close to the hole, went to 14th Matthew Bowey and 16th Jake Bowey. Nine Hole Competition: The winner with a very good score of 18 points was Marie Sands. As there was a very small field, no down the line balls were awarded. Saturday, December 30: Twenty three women experienced very windy conditions and some driving rain but that didn’t stop Dot Stubbs scoring well. Dot won A Grade with 36 points. B Grade winner was Lynne Hart with 34 points. Down the line balls went to Linda Shannon 34, Debbie Miller 33, Maryanne Gartner, Margt Griffiths, Mandy Moyle and Jan Brownlie all had 32, and Trish Owen 31 points. Nearest the pin was 16th Karen Orford (2.3m).

competition with Mick Oliver scoring a massive 43 points to win the Overall and D Grade events in a countback from Mandy Moyle. A Grade was won by Andrew Smith with 42 points, Kevin Castwood continued his good form to win B Grade with 37 points and Mark Anderson took C Grade in a countback with 38 points. Balls were awarded to Mandy Moyle, Ted Bruinewoud, Chris Leaver, Lawrence Ferrari, Anthony Sparkes, Fred Debono, Peter Waters, Bradley Hines, Bert Borg, Glenn Vassett, Mitchell Elliot, Denis Wallace, Stuart Harry, Renato Monacella, Bob Smith, Ian Murchie, Peter Hart, Barry Attwood, Malcolm Gin, Col Watson, Frank Thomas, Will Norden, Gerry Mooney, Nathan Wardle and Daniel Carcour. NTPs were Brian Fennessy on the 14th hole and Nicholas Hill on the 16th. Report for December 26 In ideal conditions on Saturday, some very good scores were produced; none better that Nathan Wardle who amassed 40 points to win the Overall and A Grade events. B Grade was taken out by Nick Lafferty with 37 points and Alexander Hill

Woorayl

A GOOD field of 42 men and nine ladies took to the course on Saturday in windy conditions, which tested the ability of most players. Quite a few players scored very well, but many found it to be pretty tough going. The A Grade winner was Ash Turner who took the course by the scruff of the neck on the front nine, shooting a lazy 39 off the stick and setting the groundwork for a charge at glory. Unfortunately, despite some exquisite iron play, a couple of three putts left him a couple of shots higher than where he would have liked to be, but he still amassed a great score of 70 net to claim the trophy. One of Woorayl Golf Club’s senior statesman and a very steady player in his own right Greg Fennell claimed the B Grade trophy and the December Monthly Medal with a fine 69 net. Greg Fennell is no stranger to glory, having recently etched his name on the honour board as 2017 C Grade champion. Taking out C Grade this week was the very highly respected John Bolge who played in the same group as the A Grade winner, getting dragged along with him, matching him shot for shot on the back nine. Bolge’s excellent 71 net could also have been a couple of shots better after a slow start on the front nine, but winners are grinners.

scored 39 points to win in C Grade. The Pro Pin on the third hole was won by Greg Welsford and John Moor received 12 balls for a brilliant eagle two also at the third hole. Balls were awarded to Grant McRitchie, Ron Findlay, Rod Mackenzie, Doug Clemann, Peter Walsh, Greg Welsford, Alan Kuhne, John Moor, Antony Sparkes, John Eabry, John Housey, Mark Anderson, Col Martin, Darrell Prior, Andrew Westaway, Peter Hobson, Merv Stubbs, Tim McCarthy and Colin Bear. NTPs were Philippe du Plessis on the 14th hole and Tom Williamson on the 16th. On Tuesday, December 19, Trevor Steer had a great score of 43 points to win B Grade, but only managed to win the overall in a countback from Ron Findlay who won A Grade with his 43 points. C Grade was taken out by Bruce Cathie with 41 points. Balls were awarded to Norm Hughes, Ron Paice, David Vorwerg, Allan Edney, William Warren, Terry Grace, Mick Oliver, Craig Hams, Wayne Keen and Will Norden. NTPs were Andrew Henley on the 14th hole

Balls down the line went to Graeme Salmon, Col James 70, Brian Hogan 71, Ty Hogan, Gav Price, Jack Howard, John Hassett 72 and Rob Gourlay 73. Damian Symons won both nearest the pins on the eighth and 17th and George Johnson’s syndicate won the ball raffle. Treasurer Dennis Lim won the encouragement award this week with a disappointing 87 net, but he is sure to bounce back into the winner’s circle soon. Ann Poole blitzed the ladies event to take home the winners cheque with a delightful 35 points with balls down the line going to Jo Fennell 34 and Shirley Thomas 32. Shirley also claimed

and Bruce Hutton on the 16th. A big field of 86 golfers enjoyed ideal conditions on Thursday, December 21, with Antony Roberts producing the best score of the day of 42 points to win the Overall and D Grade events. A Grade was taken out by Craig Hams with 37 points, Wayne Keen took out B Grade with 39 points and Marilyn Williams showed the way in C Grade with a great score of 40 points. DTL balls were won by John McLennan, Frank Smedley, Trevor Seebeck, Alan Sperling, Garry Friend, John Johnston, Jon Smith, Co Frank Gill, Col Martin, Frank Gill, Kevin Castwood, Andy Bassett, Hugh Goodman, Peter Walsh, Tim McCarthy, Ian Murchie, Peter Stivic, Doug Carter, John Simon, Darren Read and Will Norden. Mother and son combination of Rebecca Thomas and son Ryan took out the NTPs, with Rebecca closest on the 14th and Ryan closest on the 16th. Members and visitors are reminded that tee times now operate on all competition days rather than the shot gun 9am start.

NTP on the 17th. Next week the event is stroke, sponsored by Frank Schwarz. Good golfing and a Happy New Year to all. Report for December 26 ON Saturday, with 43 men and nine ladies, was Singles Stableford. Continued on page 35

Korumburra ladies NINETEEN girls enjoyed a Par competition in fine, warm conditions on Wednesday, December 20. The winner in A Grade (0-30) was Lynette McIvor (22) with a nice score of three up, this was on a count back from Marg Clasby (23). The best score in B Grade was also three up, Lyn Perks (32) scoring the win narrowly from Kath Welsh (34) who had a score of 2 up. Nearest the pins were awarded to Marg Clasby on the first hole, Lyn Perks on the 10th and Viv Enbom on the 13th. During the summer months, when the timesheet is used, the day’s results will be announced as soon as possible. It is quite accepted vthe

girls who play earlier may prefer to go home and not wait around the clubhouse for these results. There were no players for the Saturday competition.

Well done: Lynette McIvor had a nice score of three up to win A Grade at Korumburra Golf Club recently.

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 35

SPORT | Woorayl

Continued from page 34. The winner for A Grade was Geoff McKinnon with a respectable 38 points. The B Grade winner was Peter Burgess, back in the winners’ circle, 40 points. C Grade’s winner, just released from stables, was Stuart Wigney, who simply blitzed the field 46 points. BDL went to Bradley Hinds 44 points, Ivor McLennan, John Hickey, Alister Hillis 39 points, Craig Hall, Brock Fennell, Rod Goodwin, ands John Hassett 37 points. NTP on eighth was Gavin Price and 17th Steve Hannon. Ball raffle winner Shed SYN. Ladies winner was Ann Poole 39 points. Balls down line went to

thestar.com.au Sue Wakefield 37 points and Elly Berryman 35 points. NTP on eighth was Ann Poole. Korumburra Saturday, December 23 THIRTY-SIX players played a par competition, with trophies by MJA. A Grade: (12 hcp) D. Van Rooye +3, D. Sorrell +2, L. Webster +2, N. Spargo +2, P. Hornibrook +2. B Grade: (17 hcp) I. Gibson +8, K. Pope +5, S. Webster +4, W. Hopkins +3, J. Campbell +2, D. Hislop +2. Nearest the pin: 1st Sam Hislop, 7th Kodie Spokes, 10th Laurie Webster, 13th Ross Besley. Tuesday’s winner was G. Wilson 39 pts on countback and Thursday’s winner was C. Clements 39 pts. Eagle: Don Van Rooye 8th. Saturday, December 30

It was a stableford competition with 47 players and trophies by Peter Vanagtmaal. A Grade: (11 hcp) T. Fowles 42 pts on countback, I. Cash 42, T. Herbert 41, R. Ludenia 40, J. Solly 40, C. Clements 38, T. O’Neill 38, G. Wilson 38. B Grade: (22 hcp) N. Leppin 43 pts, A. Perks 41, J. Wrigley 41, J. Campbell 40, N. Ladgrove 38. Nearest the pin: 1st M. Bull, 7th R. Crawford, 10th R. Pope, 13th P. Vanagtmaal. Tuesday’s winner was R. Hamill 42 pts and Thursday’s winner J. Young 44 pts. Foster WEEKLY golf results: Tuesday, December 26: Stableford. Winner: Jim Freeman 36 points. NTP 15th: A. Naylor. DTL: N. Cooper 35.

Eagle: J. Freeman eighth. Wednesday, December 27: Winners: Di Berryman (37) 37points c/b. NTP: nil. DTL: R. Knee (23) 37. Thursday, December 28: Stableford. Winner: Tony Vanin 44 points. NTP: fourth S. Canning and 13th J. Mathers. DTL: G. Watkins 42, S. Reid 42, A. Morley 38, and D. Summers 38. Friday, December 29: Chook Run. Winner: Geoff Nott 19 points. NTP: R. Brown. DTL: B. Esser 18 and A. Brown 18. Saturday, December 30: 4BBB Stableford. Winners: T. Jones and T. Price 44.

Runner up: T. Vanin and R. McCallion 43, and F. Tyers and P. McKay 42c/b. NTP: fourth P. Prain, sixth K. Jones, 13th K. Jones, 15th J. Mathers and 17th F. Tyers. Ladies Stableford: Winner: G. Tyers 35. Runner up: R. Galloway 31. NTP: sixth G. Tyers and 17th G. Tyers. The course is holding very well with all the play it’s had over the last week; see you all on the green. Report for December 26 Tuesday, December 19: Stableford. Winner: Randy Reusch 40 points NTP: fourth 17th Chris Buckland. DTL: P. Dight and D. Hutchinson. Wednesday, December 20: Summer Golf. Stableford:

Winner A: B. Britten (23) 37 points. Winner B: A Heywood (31) 36 points. NTP: sixth M. Symmons and 17th B. Britten. DTL: M. Symmons and R. Knee. Thursday, December 21: Stableford. Winner: John Mathers 42. NTP: sixth R. Reusch and 17th D. Summers. DTL: P. Dight, N. Black and D. Summers. Friday, December 22: Chook Run. Winner: Trent Price 22 points c/b. NTP: Gayle Reid. DTL: T. Manne 22. Saturday, December 23: Three Person Ambrose. Break Up Day / Bad Shirt Day: Winners: G. Clavarino, S. Reid, P. Spencer, and J. Free-

man 55 6/8. Runner up: G. Buckland, F. Tyers, and V. Gow 57 1/6. DTL: N. Cooper, O. Kindellan, K. Esler, R. Reusch, T. Price, C. Gray, S. Corrie, G. Buckland, K. Flett, S. Rathjen, R. Smith, B. Britten, B. Robinson, D. Jenkins, and R. Prain. NTP: fourth L. McKenzie, sixth J. Freeman, 13th N. Cooper, 15th R. Prain, and 17th Val Gow and C. Buckland.

High winds hamper Lewis breaks club record Inverloch sailing SOUTH Coast athletes have finished 2017 on a high, with some great competition.

IT MIGHT be summer but that doesn’t mean we should expect to get four days in a row of perfect sailing weather, which was the case on the weekend.

Despite sitting out the Saturday, the South Gippsland Yacht Club was still able to conduct six races of the Serious Surf Stuff summer series in a variety of conditions. The series experienced everything from challenging 15 to 20 knot winds on Wednesday, which had reduced to a light breeze by Friday afternoon. This produced a good spread of results across the series, as some sailors performed well in high winds and others were particularly skilled in the lighter conditions. Pete Kiely might be the exception as he proved to be nearly unbeatable in all conditions. Unfortunately, Saturday was just too windy with regular gusts of 25 knots. A small group of brave souls attempted to race in the afternoon, as the wind seemed to be easing.

But just before the start it sprang back up over 25 knots resulting in one broken mast and abandonment of the race. The club rescue boat was busy for a while having to tow in the broken NS14 and its crew, as a very strong outgoing tide tried to extract them towards Tasmania. On the way back to the boat ramp an exhausted wind surfer also hitched a ride back to shore. Series presentations were made at the club’s first social function for the season on Saturday evening following a wonderful spit roast dinner. Thanks to all members who helped out over the course of the week whether in the rescue boat, scoring or preparing lunches. Serious Surf Stuff summer series results: A Division: 1st Pete Kiely, 2nd Shaun Freeman, 3rd Rob McNair B Division: 1st Keith Cousens, 2nd Aaron LopezFreeman, 3rd Steve Horton/John Honeybone C Division: 1st Alana Lopez-Freeman

Sailing stars: South Gippsland Yacht Club summer series prize winners on the weekend were from left, Keith Cousens, Aaron Lopez-Freeman, Alana Lopez-Freeman and Pete Kiely.

Mountain bike trail proposed KILCUNDA has been identified as the optimum place for a mountain bike track.

Mountain bike enthusiasts approached Bass Coast Shire Council with the vision at the December community connection session, seeking support. According to the Bass Coast Mountain Bike Trail Committee’s Todd Jacobson, two sites were identified. However, a track at the Gurdies could endanger protected species in the area. Kilcunda is considered ideal because it allows for the development of some 14 kilometres of trails, would be suitable for novice and beginner riders and children, would link with established trails

in Wonthaggi, and would be on land managed by council. “It would be almost independent of the George Bass Memorial Walk. It would be suitable for families, but the topography also lends itself to accommodate intermediate and expert riders,” Mr Jacobson said. The designs for trail are still conceptual, and the committee members said it would be professionally designed and built. The committee believes the track would become iconic for tourists, and a place for the community to improve its health and social interactions. It would be a safe place for cautious riders – away from aggressive situations on the road – and would likely be used for bike programs in local schools. Mr Jacobson said he anticipates the project will cost $1.5 million in its entirety, and hopes council would provide support. Cr Stephen Fullarton spoke favourably of the project at the community connection session, describing the concept as a “fantastic idea”.

Round nine of the Athletics Victoria Shield was a twilight meet held at Lakeside Stadium on Friday, December 15. Good conditions greeted the 14 South Coast athletes who competed, and once again there were some great results, including Sarah Lewis breaking the 800m club record. On Tuesday, December 19, seven South Coasters competed in round one of the Vern Curnow Shield held at Newborough. This is a team event where South Coast competes against three other Gippsland clubs over three rounds, with points scored for each event and overall totals at the end of round three to decide the winner. It was great to see athletes trying different events to help score points for the club and get them off to a good start. Results for both events are below: Athletics Victoria Shield round nine results: U14B: Harrison Clark - 200m 37.15, 800m 3:01.5, Triple Jump 7.54m U14G: Georgia Burns - 200m 28.77, 800m 2:30.6, Shot Put 8.10m, High Jump 1.35m Charli Burns - 200m 33.14, Triple Jump 8.78m U16B: Matthew Merrilees - Shot Put 10.66m, High Jump 1.65m, Hammer Throw 23.68m U16G: Alarna Gibson-Williamson - 90m Hurdles 14.81, High Jump 1.60m, Triple Jump 9.56m Meaghan Wilson - 90m Hurdles 15.01, High Jump 1.55m, Triple Jump 9.97m Nicola Slade - Pole Vault 2.30m, High Jump 1.50m Rachel Aitken - High Jump 1.55m U18G: Emilee Gibson-Williamson - 200m 32.32, Triple Jump 8.06m U20G: Courtney Clark - 200m 34.59, 800m 3:16.9 Open Women: Sarah Lewis - 200m 29.14, 800m 2:20.4(club record) Eleanor Patterson - High Jump 1.83m Masters Men: Colin Gibson-Williamson - 800m 2.44.7, Shot Put 8.44m Mark Hastings - Hammer Throw 19.42, Shot Put 8.06m Vern Curnow round one results: 100m Women: U/14 - Charli Burns 15.86; U/16 Nicola Slade 14.43, Rachel Aitken 14.91; Open - Sarah Lewis 14.35;

Morgan joins AFL Gippsland GEORGE Morgan has been appointed as football development manager for the West Gippsland region.

Morgan replaces Matt Cracknell and has extensive links to the Gippsland community where he has strong networks, relationships and connections to schools, junior and senior clubs and leagues, as well as the TAC Cup and VFL pathways and the Auskick program. For the last five years Morgan has worked at VFL club Casey Demons (formerly Casey Scorpions) where he held the roles of football operations manager and head of development. Morgan has run the Warragul Auskick centre for the last three years which has seen the centre focus more on skill development and transition to the junior club environment than what it had previously. During this time Morgan has implemented an Auskick program focused on U8s based around the fundamentals of the game to set participants up for

Men: Open - Brenton Taber 12.13, Mark Coulter 13.26; Masters - Rob Gray 21.67 Javelin Women: U/14 - Charli Burns 13.71; U/16 - Nicola Slade 15.10, Rachel Aitken 13.00; Open Sarah Lewis 4.86; Men: Open - Mark Coulter 23.05, Brenton Taber 20.04; Masters - Rob Gray 10.68 400m Women: U/14 - Charli Burns 1:25.63; U/16 - Rachel Aitken 1:14.90; Open - Sarah Lewis 1:01.26(venue record) Men: Open - Brenton Taber 57.58, Mark Coulter 58.49 Long jump Women: U/16 - Nicola Slade 4.13, Rachel Aitken 3.73; Open - Sarah Lewis 2.69; Men: Open - Brenton Taber 5.18, Mark Coulter 4.44; Masters - Rob Gray 1.93 3000m Women: Open - Sarah Lewis 12:36.01; Shot put Women: Open - Sarah Lewis 4.20; Men: Open - Mark Coulter 6.57

Record smashed: Sarah Lewis broke the 800m club record at round nine of the Athletics Victoria Shield on December 15. success beyond Auskick, which aligns well with the new Auskick 2.0 program. As part of the program at the Warragul Auskick centre, Morgan focussed on offering inclusive programs to involve and encourage participation from boys and girls, people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds and grew the centre’s all abilities program. As part of the program he also focused on identifying parental involvement in the program and has a strong understanding of the nature of volunteerism in community sport. In addition to his experience at Casey and Warragul Auskick, Morgan has held roles as director of coaching with the South East Junior Football League, Development Academy manager with Casey Scorpions, satellite coach with Gippsland Power and senior coach with Warragul, Buln Buln (premiership coach) and Gormandale football clubs and assistant coach at Pakenham Football Club. He also played community football in the Gippsland region at Buln Buln (premiership player and leading goalkicker) and Traralgon and was a regular member of the VCFL rep side. Morgan will start with AFL Gippsland on Monday, February 5.

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Conditions challenge triathletes NEW Year’s Eve delivered challenging conditions and fantastic results in the Dune2Dune triathlon held in Cape Paterson.

The remaining swell and full high tide made the setting of a swim course difficult, with some electing not to tackle the start of the race. However, Wonthaggi Life Saving Club was on standby to ensure the safety of all competitors. Twenty nine starters lined up for the long course with double that number starting the short course. Reuben Kuah was the master of the rough water and led at the end of the swim with former Leongatha local Amanda Wilson and Paul Taylor in hot pursuit, and a group of three less than 20 seconds behind. Matt Sullivan and Dennis Neal were the big movers on the bike leg and it was Neal getting past Sullivan in the second lap to lead in to the final transition posting the quickest bike time for the day of 56:13. A blitzing run time of 36:29 by Wilson saw her pass all the men with an almost full minute lead at the finish over Taylor who had passed Sullivan (second) and Neal (third). Sarah Treloar was second in the women’s field with Adele Garwood in 3rd. In the short course a blistering bike leg in a time of 26:38 saw Brett Franklin lead in to the final change with half a minute lead over Mack Clarkson. Whilst Clarkson closed the gap somewhat, Franklin held on for the win with Naish Chapman in third. In the women’s field, it was Penny Nevill over Zoe Ferguson with Kara Landells in third. There were only two incidents during the day that led to hospitalisation. A woman came off her bike during her warm up prior to the race, and a man collapsed after crossing the finish line; both are recovering. Bass Coast Barracudas’ Deb Reilly said it was an overall great day for a triathlon, with excellent numbers and impressive results. Reilly said there were a number of first timers in this event, including Jessica Deans who was first in her age group. Reilly and the Barracudas thanked Coastal Crewzers who helped out with the race transitions, and the many locals who lent a hand for marshalling. The next race with be the Twilight Triathlon on February 24 in Inverloch.

Phillip Island Turtles: from left, Jenny Merrick, Suzie Herrington, Rebeka Fincher, Deb Mahon and Kris Harris were looking forward to taking part in the Dune2Dune triathlon on New Year’s Eve.

First leg: local athlete Matt Sullivan runs to his bike after completing the swim in the Competitors: from left, Wonthaggi’s Brett Dune2Dune triathlon on New Year’s Eve. Franklin, Korumburra’s Damien and Aiden King were ready to take on the Dune2Dune triathlon on New Year’s Eve. The Kings were competing in the relay, while Brett tackled the solo short course.

Family team: San Remo’s Rachel Costello teamed up with her children Coco and Max Off and racing: Bass Coast Barracuda’s Phil Incredible feat: former Leongatha local Stafford to complete the Dune2Dune relay. Hanley takes off on the cycling leg of the Amanda Wilson finished first overall in the Rachel was the swimmer, Coco, the runner Dune2Dune triathlon on New Year’s Eve. Dune2Dune triathlon on New Year’s Eve. and Max, the cyclist.

Holly’s girls win back to back finals New coach GIPPSLAND Storm Elite Development Netball Club had another successful spring season, with many of its squads making the finals, just before the Christmas break, at the Waverley Netball Centre. Holly Monaghan’s U13s squad was one of them, making and winning back to back finals, having previously coached her girls to a win earlier in the year, in the autumn season. Monaghan, who lives in Mardan, just out of Leongatha, played as a junior for Stony Creek, and coached and played for Gippsland Storm for over nine years. The U13 and U15 finals were held on a Thursday evening.

U13 squad: Storm’s U13 two won back to back grand finals. Pictured back from left, Molly Turner (Kongwak), Mikayla Phillips, Ella Tevaga, Holly Monaghan (coach) Keeley Burgman, Amelie Mucic, front from left, Lacey Pedersen, Sasha Williams, Shae O’Connell and Holly Van Der Loop.

Monaghan’s team was first up at 6.10pm, playing against Sandringham, one of their old foes. It was a high pressured first quarter, with Storm gaining the ascendency, with fast positive laser sharp passes down the court, cutting the opposition’s defence to shreds. The Storm goalers ring craft was exceptional, constantly creating space under the ring, using its wing attack and centre. Sandringham seemed to be overwhelmed by Storm’s attack. The first quarter ended with Storm leading 10 goals to five. The balance of the match followed a similar pattern, every time Sandringham tried to surge; Storm always seemed to have the answers, both in defence and attack, with Storm running out winners 46 to 21. Storm’s “passing” was a highlight of the game, with skills well beyond its players years. “Winning back to back finals, this is great; I’m so thrilled with the girls. They have improved so much from last season,” Monaghan said. Later the same evening, Storm’s U15 one squad also won back to back finals, defeating Yarra Valley 41 to 31. This was a tough game; Yarra Valley had some very tall goalers, one well over 6ft. Storm’s defenders successfully worked from the front, intercepting lobs into the ring. Storm led at each change with some very accurate shooting, matching everything Yarra Valley could throw at them, both in attack and defence; another final win, capping a very successful year. Some of the members of this team will be involved in Victorian Netball League developments squads for 2018. During Storm’s spring presentations, just before the finals, Monaghan was honoured with a life membership of Gippsland Storm, for her ser-

vices spanning a nine year period. First, as a junior player leading into senior ranks, winning many awards, also as a U13 coach as she progressed through these same ranks. In making the presentation Simon O’Shanassy Storm’s head coach thanked Monaghan for her services to Storm over many years, her selfless dedication and a willingness to learn, both as a player and a coach. He wished her all the best for the future, stating that she would be sadly missed. In early 2018, Monaghan will move to Redcliffe Queensland, on the coast, just north of Brisbane, to stay with friends and continue her career in child care.

Well deserved: Mardan’s Holly Monaghan received her life membership plaque and commemorative canvas from Simon O’Shanassy (Storm head coach).

for the Lions SCOTT Andersen will coach Stony Creek Football Netball Club’s Seniors in 2018.

Previously coaching Kilcunda Bass, Andersen has spent the past two years coaching the Allies. Andersen said the move placed him closer to home. The Lions showed interest in offering him the position after watching the 2017 finals series. Stony has seen strong numbers at training in the lead up to Christmas, with new recruits including league goal kicker Kael Bergles, best and fairest Darcy Atkins, Jayden Nolan and Tait Sabec from the Allies, and Jack Soroczynski and Michael Milovojevic from Narre Warren. Training is on hold for the Christmas break, but preseason will kick off on January 15. The interest from juniors has also been strong, and the club has a number of key young players who will be an asset this season. “The U18 team was runner up in the grand final, the Reserves won the grand final, and the Seniors made finals so Stony Creek has a really strong club,” Andersen said. Andersen said his aim for 2018 is to have the Lions right up the top by the end of the home and away season, and is looking forward to the challenge that lay ahead.

“THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018 - PAGE 37

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Junior country week kicks off JUNIOR cricketers descendedonSouthGippsland for the Gippsland Junior Cricket Championships.

The championships started on Monday and will finish on Friday. During that time, junior cricketers from six Gippsland Cricket Associations will compete at Leongatha and

Short stuff: Leongatha and District Cricket Association U15s bowler Evan Allaway took 1/17 against Traralgon and District.

District Cricket Association’s member grounds. There are U14 and U15 teams competing, with LDCA already off to great start. LDCA’s U15s defeated Traralgon and District on Monday. A 49 run stint from Joshua Williams put LDCA in a good position, and it finished the innings 6/159. Sharp bowling from Jack Collins saw him claim 4/16, and Traralgon ended all out for 140. The U14s also defeated Traralgon and District. Darcy Hume caused havoc for Traralgon, taking 3/12. Traralgon finished the day all out for 72. LDCA immediately put some great scores on the board, the top score being 46 runs from Billy Manicaro. Ultimately, LDCA won the day 5/215. T20 games will be held today (Wednesday, January 3), as part of an exciting new initiative. Finals will be played out on Friday, and awards will be handed out on Friday afternoon.

Champions break drought to top off a great volleyball year KORUMBURRA Volleyball – soon to be known as South Gippsland Volleyball –had its 2017 winter/spring final series earlier in December at the Leongatha SPLASH stadium.

The junior competition had participants from almost all of the schools in the South Gippsland region. Empire Spikes Back had finished on top of the ladder at the end of the season. Despite being quite undermanned on the final night, it still managed to take out the premiership beating Skyfall in two tight sets 25:20, 25:16. Chris Axford was named as the P Triple C Most Disciplined Player and Shekinah Hart received the President’s Award. In the senior competition, Champions won its first A Grade premiership beating Bugs (3:0) 25:18, 25:11, 25:23. In B Grade, the top three teams had had close tussles throughout the season and all their games in the finals series were nail bitingly close with quite a few five setters. Help was victorious, however, in the grand final defeating Panthers (3:0) 25:12, 25:22, 25:7. The Most Valuable Player awards were revealed at the vote count at the Leongatha RSL season wind up. A Grade winners were: male Brendan Tomada on 38 points, runner up Roger Callister; female Kristen Scott on 12 points, and equal runners up Alison Sand-

ers and Rachel Brown. B Grade winners were: male Marcus Luscombe on 26 points, runner up Joshua Zheng; female Jasmin Allan on 20 points and second Rachel Chalmers. This all topped off a fantastic year for the local volleyball association. Highlights include its inaugural entry to the Victorian Volleyball League played in Dandenong with South Gippsland winning Silver in the State League Junior Girls competition. Well done to the dedicated young players and their equally dedicated coaches Tania and Nic Ryan. There were also two teams in the World Masters Games in Auckland with the men taking silver in the 40 + mens indoor volleyball; five teams to Horsham for the Victorian Country Volleyball Championships with a gold in the men’s Division 3, bronze in women’s Division 3 and three All Star Six award winners. The women’s team was runner up in the Gippsland Regional League. Three juniors were selected to Victorian State Volleyball teams and one into the Victorian State Beach Volleyball team. Many juniors have and will be participating in the Gippsland Sports Academy Volleyball program. Other senior and junior players have participated in various tournaments and there has been a strong attendance at training sessions and the local competition at SPLASH. The beach volleyball competition on Tuesday nights

outside at Leongatha SPLASH hit off again yesterday (Tuesday, January 2). The indoor competition will start early in February, date to be confirmed. On Sunday, January 28, at Pensioners Point at Inverloch, the club will hold its 25th Annual Beach Volleyball tournament. If anyone would like more information about this event or other local volleyball please email korumburravolleyball@yahoo.com or phone Tom Saario BH 5658 1043.

Waiting to bat: back from left, Darcy Hume, Noah Fixter, Harry Hoekstra middle from left, Lachan Gill, Tom Handly, Jack Buther, Tom Crocker, front from left, Billy Manicaro and Tyson Twite from Leongatha and District Cricket Association’s U14s side were ready to take on Traralgon and District in the first round of the Gippsland Junior Cricket Championships.

Focused: Leongatha and District Cricket Association U14s player Jacob Whiteside was in form against Traralgon and District on Empire Spikes Back: Phil, Luke, Kyrin and Monday, making 39 runs. Leah were the premiers in the junior competition. Absent: Shekinah, Sky and Brooke.

Leongatha District Cricket Association

Umpire Appointments EVANS PETROLEUM Round 9 - January 6 Home team

A Grade premiers: back from left, Roger Callister, Nathan Lovie, B Grade premiers: Fiona MacKenzie, Tania Ryan, Marcus Luscombe, Ian Jenkins, John Francis, front from left, Charlotte Smith, Keith Davern Goss, Ash Challis, Richard Ife, Greg Goss, Anthony Golding Jenkins and Rachel Chalmers won the A Grade title. The team was won the grand final. Their team was called Help. aptly named Champions. Absent: Alan Ward and Dylan Adams.

A Grade runners up: the Bugs team of Andrew Noble, Phil Smith, Stuart Smith, Kristen Scott, Wendy Wyhoon, Mandy Fletcher and Allan Fletcher came second after coming up against Champions in the A Grade premiership.

B Grade runners up: Panthers team of Lucy Francis, Leanne Bunn, Pat Kennedy, Geoff Nelson, Jodie Jans, Kaleb Jans and Nicole Dudman was runner up in the B Grade premiership. Absent: Adrian Thomas and Rob Parkes

Away Team

Ground

Umpire

v v v v

Phillip Island Korumburra Town Won Club

Glen Alvie OMK Inv Turf Bass 1

J. Schelling G. Goss G. Laird T. Rogers

Grade A2 Poowong Loch Nerrena Won Miners Koon L/RSL

v v v v

MDU Foster Imperials Bye

Loch Leon Turf WFG

M. Heenan A. Stride A. Jordan

Grade B1 Phillip Island MDU Town Won Club

v v v v

Koon L/RSL OMK Nerrena Kilcunda Bass

Cowes Meeniyan SP 1 McMahon

G. Wyatt I. Richards I. Thomas N. Grabham

Grade B2 Glen Alvie Foster Korumburra Imperials

v v v v

Won Miners Inverloch Poowong Loch Bye

Dalyston FGC Kor Rec

N. Barnes N. Grayden TBA

Grade C1 Korumburra Nerrena Town Inverloch

v v v v

Won Club OMK Phillip Island MDU

Kor SC Nerrena SP 2 IFG

TBA TBA TBA B. Bek

Grade C2 Kilcunda Bass Phillip Island OMK Koon L/RSL

v v v v

Glen Alvie Won Club Poowong Loch Korumburra

Bass 2 Rhyll Digger Pk Koonwarra

TBA TBA TBA TBA

Grade A1 Glen Alvie OMK Inverloch Kilcunda Bass

If any player from teams having the bye would like to umpire this round call Geoff Wyatt on 0413 081 136 SPONSORED BY EVANS PETROLEUM

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR” Wednesday, January 3, 2018

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Trio bound for the Australian Open THREE local tennis players were selected into the 350 strong ballkid squad for the 2018 Australian Open.

Holly van der Pligt of Inverloch, Darcy Methven, Wonthaggi and Liam Dayson, Ryanston will be amongst the action at the global event. Holly saw the opportunity to be part of the Australian Open on television and was excited to register. She has been playing tennis in Inverloch for eight years, and has developed a love for the

sport playing alongside her family. Darcy followed in the footsteps of his brother Jacob, who was part of the ballkid squad four years ago. However, this is not the first time Darcy has been courtside for the Australian Open, having been selected for the squad in 2017. He said it was a great experience, and enjoyed being on the court. The three children were selected from a pool of 2500, which was narrowed down to just 350.

To be selected, they had to register and undergo vigorous training for four months, which taught them ball skills. These skills were then graded for the final squad to be selected. Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said the Australian Open ballkid program is one of the most highly regarded in world tennis. “Our ballkids are an integral part of the Australian Open and are vital to ensuring the matches run smoothly,” he said. “We receive more than 2500 applications and the desire to be involved in one of the world’s best ballkid programs increases year-on-year.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for the children. Not only do they have the chance to be on court alongside the world’s best tennis players, they develop great teamwork and communication skills. It’s an extraordinary experience for them and something they will remember for a lifetime.” The squad has already had a practice run, going to the December Showdown at Melbourne Park. Holly and Darcy are looking forward to seeing greats like Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal take to the courts for the Australian Open. The big event kicks off from January 15 until January 28.

Tarwin Lower enduro success DEDICATED volunteers of Venus Bay up from 23.848 last year, There were 23 participants who completed the Surf Life Saving Club held the annual swim, paddle and ski cycles. Respect the Rivers Enduro Taplin on Thursday.

Selected: Wonthaggi’s Darcy Methven and Inverloch’s Holly van der Pligt were chosen to be in the 2018 Australian Open ballkid squad. The Australian Open kicks off on January 15. Absent: Liam Dayson.

Sunny start: ideal conditions greeted nippers to the start of the program at Sandy Point last Wednesday, December 27 for the Waratah Beach Surf Life Saving Club season. Seventy enthusiastic nippers met at the clubrooms before heading out to the beach to tackle the surf, beach activities or one of the educational sessions, including being educated on use of one of the club’s rescue craft (IRB), pictured.

The event was held at the Tarwin Lower Jetty with 41 people participating which was up from 32 last year. Participants relayed through the swim, paddle and ski legs for six gruelling hours. The total distance of the relay was 27.094km

Water safety: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club president Craig Watson with surf lifesaver Jasmine McJames enjoyed the annual Respect the Rivers Enduro Taplin held at the Tarwin Lower Jetty on Thursday.

River time: Tora Fagan and Olivia Cumming from Tarwin Lower had fun watching and participating in the Respect the Rivers Enduro Taplin held at the Tarwin Lower Jetty on Thursday.

Koonwarra parkrun sees out 2017 AN amazing total of 165 people ran, jogged, walked and talked their way through our first parkrun for 2018. Although the day was looking a little gloomy, the sun soon came to the party due to the infectious cheeriness of the participants and the volunteer squad. There were 22 running clubs represented, some local, others more metro based, and 78 first timers to Koonwarra parkrun, although not necessarily new to parkrun as you only need to register once and you can then run any parkrun anywhere there is parkrun in the world. For some people, it was their first time at parkrun; organisers hoped this was an enjoyable experience, and that they will continue to attend a parkrun somewhere. There were 20 new personal bests; congratu-

lations to Geoff Williams, Helen Goff, Daniel Lloyd, Leo Argento, Neil Green, Jason Evans, Cindy Borg, Chloe Bailey, Callum McCaughan, Lisa Riley, Shirley Dell, Noel Farmilo, Julie Farmilo, Rebecca King, Penny Johnson, Amanda Calder, Kylie Burns, Cindy Smith, Caitlin Castellan, and Sheila Lloyd. First overall and first male over the line was Marc Tillotson in a time of 17:43 (course record is 17:36), and first female over the line was Helen Goff in a time of 23:09, and a new personal best. Thanks to Lisa for checking the course and putting out the marker signs each week, to Milly and Romeo’s café for coffee and breakfast, and to this week’s volunteers, for some their first time volunteering. Next Saturday’s parkrun will be at the normal Sibling fun: Olivia and Taite Cumming from Tarwin Lower participated in the paddle leg in the Respect the Rivers Enduro Taplin held at the Tarwin Lower Jetty on Thursday. time of 8am.

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Children’s day: from left, Eltham’s Liliana and Annabella Murphy picked up some goodies at the Stony Creek races on Saturday. Over the line: Mister Jay won The Great South- They are visiting locally during the summer ern Star 3YO Maiden Plate, the first race of the holidays to take part in the Nippers program Race ready: Waratah North trainers Anna and Paul Boag prepped Zai Bu Zai for race six at the Stony Creek Racing Club on Saturday. day, at the Stony Creek races on Saturday. in Sandy Point.

Top start to race season GLOOMY weather did not stop Stony Creek Racing Club’s first meeting of the 2017/18 season becoming a success on Saturday. With the focus on turning the club into a family friendly environment, the meeting was focused on children with activities from Kelly Sports, pony rides, a jumping castle and face painting.

The meeting was such a success that the 300 children’s showbags on offer were handed out within an hour. Club CEO Sarah Wolf said it was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the day out, despite the weather. “Everyone was having so much fun and cheering on the horses, it was a fantastic day,” she said. Track manager Steve Hughes said the rain the club had received in recent weeks helped the track in the lead up to the first big meeting.

Mr Hughes became the club’s track manager in October, and brings with him 35 years experience. “It has been a great, new challenge. I grew up around here as a teenager, and I like that the club has a great family atmosphere. The club sets a high standard, and people from Melbourne love coming here,” he said. Mr Hughes has previously worked with football and golf clubs, and said it is a totally new experience to be providing a safe and stable environment for animals. He said he has a good working relationship with Ms Wolf, and they have set targets to achieve new projects for coming meets. Among their recent projects is new fence, which has added an extra touch of class to the track. Ms Wolf said the club has also maintained its working relationships with community groups and clubs – including the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club, the Meeniyan CFA, DWWWW Football Netball Club and the Meeniyan Pony Club. The racing club offers the opportunity for outside clubs to help out on race days to help support any fundraising efforts. The next race meeting is on January 8. This will be another children friendly event with Kelly Sports back on deck, as well as Chris Humphrey’s Wild Action Zoo. It is also Ladies Day, featuring the Sisterhood Wom-

en’s Travel Pink Roses Marquee. February 14 is the midweek meeting, March 11 is Cup Day, and March 27 is Publican’s Day.

Staying dry: from left, Korumburra’s Ruby Anderson, Mackenzie White and Shylah Cootes beat the wet weather at the Stony Creek races on Saturday.

Thumbs up: U11 Nippers Hayden, Zoe and New skills: U8 Claire is helped out by age Daniel enjoyed the first day of the program manager Zoe in the Inverloch Nippers proin Inverloch recently. gram.

Nippers off and swimming THERE was plenty of sun, smiles, swimming and a touch of surf conditions thrown into the first day of the Nippers program held by the Inverloch Surf Lifesaving Club. Nippers coordinator Lucy Chambers said, “We have 209 Nippers enrolled in the U7 to U13 age groups with another 19 Nippers undertaking their Surf Rescue Certificate. This season we have a group of Nippers keen to develop their competition skills with six members recently participating at the Altona Nipper carnival.” U12 age manager, Brett said, “The start of the program has been brilliant. “The children have been engaged, listening carefully to instructions and enjoying the small waves. It has allowed them to perfect their swimming techniques and improve on their skills. “Parents have commented that their children have been looking forward to Nippers for the past month

with their caps, swimmers and pink rash vests out and ready to be worn. “Our age group has 36 children with most of the children returning from previous seasons. Summer friendships are formed at Nippers and renewed each year with families from both local and Melbourne areas. “A big thank you also needs to be extended to the the fabulous water safety crew that mentor and volunteer time with the children. Most have come up through the Nipper ranks themselves and are now patrolling members of the club. “Their encouragement to all the children, particularly to some of our less confident children, often sees them sharing stories on how they themselves coped whilst learning unfamiliar skills like board paddling.” The program continues next week and will see the older age groups learning Doctors ABC and resuscitation techniques.

Safety ready: Kristen (water safety) and U13 Nipper Joy were pictured getting ready for the session in Inverloch with the U13 group behind them.

First place: jockey Damien Thornton acknowledges the crowd after winning the first race of day at the Stony Creek races on Saturday.

Tin rattle: from left, Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s Alisha Rowden and Sass Fagan were raising money and helping out the Stony Creek Racing Club on Saturday.

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