The Great Southern Star - January 9, 2018

www.thestar.com.au TUESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2018 - $1.50

Nippers compete

Theatre magic

PAGE 46

PAGE 15

Heat wave relief HEAT upended South Gippslanders’ weekend fun on Saturday as the temperature passed 40ºC. Leongatha and District Cricket Association called off all matches and the fundraiser BOB in the Burra at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum at Korumburra was cancelled due to fire risk.

That event has since been rescheduled for Saturday, January 27 to raise money for an eight year old girl to have surgery.

Foster Outdoor Expo received a larger crowd on the cooler Sunday than Saturday and so did the Port Welshpool Sea Days Festival.

Stallholders at Inverloch Rotary Craft Market, and Koonwarra Farmers Market were busy on Saturday morning as shoppers arrived early to beat the heat.

On Saturday, the Bureau of Meteorology’s weather station at Pound Creek recorded a top temperature of 39.9ºC and the bureau’s Wonthaggi station reached a maximum of 40.5ºC. The heat resulted in crowded beaches across South Gippsland, while Jazlynne and Isabelle Bennett of Fish Creek (pictured) splashed in the cool water of the Foster pool.

More pool photos on page 11 and cricket news on page 48.

BRING IT ON Push for new Leongatha entertainment hub

By Brad Lester A PROPOSAL to build a new RSL complete with upmarket accommodation in Leongatha could still proceed.

• Leongatha RSL president Steve Wisdom.

Last year, the Leongatha RSL flagged the possibility of building a new RSL on the corner of Smith Street and Michael Place in Leongatha.

The new complex was to include a restaurant, accommodation, function centre and on-site parking.

The RSL proposed to buy the former Carinos of-

fice complex now owned by South Gippsland Shire Council and sell the existing RSL site in Michael Place to council.

But the RSL withdrew its proposal in October 2017, despite the RSL and council entering into a Memorandum of Understanding to start talks about a land swap earlier that year.

The Star understands the Leongatha RSL withdrew its proposal after the complex did not receive unanimous support from the RSL committee, despite significant work already being undertaken to progress the project.

Continued on page 6.

• South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Lorraine Brunt.

Armed robbery in ’Burra POLICE are investigating an armed robbery at Korumburra’s Middle Hotel early yesterday (Monday) morning.

At about 12.30am, an offender gained entry to the premises on Commercial Road and stole money.

The offender was chased from the hotel and apprehended, before escaping down Radovick Street after a brief struggle. Police believe there may have been a getaway driver.

Detectives from Bass Coast Criminal Investigation Unit are investigating the incident, as well as a burglary at Korumburra Car Company in Radovick Street.

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PAGE 2 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

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

Higher energy costs hurt

By Sarah Vella THE rising price of electricity is costing South Gippsland businesses more, with many aiming to offset costs by installing solar panels.

A South Gippsland Shire Council spokesperson said its energy costs had increased by around 30 percent over the last three years.

The spokesperson said increased energy prices won’t make providing services more difficult, but didn’t rule out making sacrifices to accommodate the increased costs.

“Council is bound by rate capping so if electricity costs are higher, cuts may need to occur in other areas of the budget,” they said.

The spokesperson said the council was expecting energy costs to continue to rise.

Gippsland Southern Health Service’s (GSHS) Vicki Farthing said its energy prices have increased, but the price increase has not impacted on its ability to provide services.

“The Department of Health and Human Services has informed health services to expect an 80 percent price increase, which for GSHS would be around $170,000,” she said.

“The recent installation of solar panels at both the Korumburra and Leongatha campuses will assist in reducing the impact of the energy price increase by approximately $80,000 for the 201718 financial year.”

Ms Farthing said a new state wide energy contract commenced in July 2017, which included GSHS. “However, from information we have received, we expect energy costs will continue to rise,” she said.

“We do not currently anticipate we will have to reduce the services we provide due to rising energy costs.”

From 2016 to 2018, Burra Foods’ combined energy and gas bill will have increased by almost $4 million per year.

CEO Grant Crothers said Burra Foods has collaborated with Sustainability Victoria to complete

a “very detailed” study of site energy usage.

“An early initiative includes design and installation of an energy management system to control peak load demand and collect minute by minute data by department,” he said.

“This will enable tracking of energy demand measure against production output in detail.”

Mr Crothers said the business installed solar panels in September, which were expected to deliver 2.4 per cent of its energy needs.

A Murray Goulburn spokesperson said the business has been affected by fluctuating cost structures and impacted by increasing electricity prices.

“These increases have been partially mitigated through various initiatives, including some capital investments,” they said.

Leongatha South dairy farmer Tim Jelbart said he had not noticed a big change in energy prices.

“Our dairy is already very efficient with technology dad (Max Jelbart) had installed when he built the dairy 25 years ago, so there won’t be a need for any major change for us,” he said.

“We also have a bit of solar which helps offset some of the cost, but we don’t use the solar for the dairy though.”

Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien said he received comments from households and businesses about the strain caused by increases in energy prices regularly.

He said prices have been rising steadily for some time.

“The closure of Hazelwood earlier in the year, which removed 22 percent of the state’s supply, has seen wholesale prices increase which has flowed through to retail prices,” he said.

“While Hazelwood was always going to close, there is no doubt the tripling of the coal tax by Premier Daniel Andrews hastened its demise.”

Mr O’Brien said the State Government’s renewable energy target also threatened the future of Yallourn power station.

“We need secure reliable and affordable power generation as well as renewables. The State Government has forgotten the affordable element, to the detriment of consumers,” he said.

Big day out: the first race of Stony Creek Racing Club's January 8 meet was a thriller with first and second battling it out to the end. The winner was jockey Clayton Douglas (yellow and blue) and horse Champagne Elle. Korumburra's Louise McMeekin and Steph Kyle also had a thrilling day, becoming closely acquainted with a snake as part of the Wild Action Family Day, run by Chris Humfrey. Full story on page 50.

Crash highlights quad bikes danger

A 16 year old male from Narre Warren South was a passenger on the bike and remains in a critical but stable condition in the Alfred Hospital.

The incident occurred in Bolgers Road.

“It appears the girl lost control of the bike on a bend. The bike skidded and flipped throwing the pair onto the road. They both suffered significant head injuries in the accident,” Yarram Police Sergeant Brian Howard said.

“Both were knocked unconscious, however the male came too shortly after and contacted his parents, who rushed to the scene and notified the ambulance, who then called police to assist.

“The parents of both victims are devastated.”

The girl underwent surgery last Wednesday

evening and Thursday, and was in a critical but stable condition. She is suffering from significant injuries.

The male remained in hospital in a stable condition.

Last year, Victoria became the first state to require mandatory rollover protection to be fitted to quad bikes used in the workplace, including farms.

According to Safe Work Australia, almost one in seven fatal quad bike incidents involved children under 16 years.

Safe Work Australia’s website said children under 16 should never ride adult sized quad bikes.

“You should never carry children as passengers on single rider quad bikes. Carrying children or other passengers adversely affects quad bike stability and increases the risk of rollover,” it said.

There were 10 quad bike fatalities in 2017, two of those in Victoria.

Campfire alarm A MAN will be summonsed to court for lighting a fire on a day of total fire ban, on Saturday.

Foster Police were called to a campfire at the Franklin River Reserve, Toora, at 11.30pm.

They found a 32 year old man from Southbank had lit the fire.

Traffic offences

POLICE from Foster and Toora have issued many traffic infringement notices in the past two weeks.

They issued eight for speeding, eight for seat belt related offences, three for drink driving and two for failing to stop at the stop sign in Foster’s Main Street.

One notice was issued for driving over double lines, one for failing to display P plates, one for driving an unregistered vehicle and two for unlicensed driving.

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A FIFTEEN year old Inverloch girl is fighting for life in the Royal Children’s Hospital after a quad bike accident in Devon North near Yarram on Wednesday afternoon.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Sea Days Festival soldiers on ATTENDANCE at the Port Welshpool Sea Days Festival was severely affected by the heat on Saturday, but Sunday was a different story.

While the heat even kept some exhibitors away on the first day of the festival, Sunday’s cooler con-

ditions saw them return to a huge audience.

Run by the Port Welshpool Working Group, the event was in its 13th year.

Working group secretary Alma Mattingly said the festival was closed down early on Saturday, due to a lack of visitors.

“By about 2pm the only ones sitting around talking were the stallholders so we wound it up early,” she said.

“We had to cancel the come and try fishing on Saturday afternoon as well, but the boat rides and helicopter flights continued and were very successful.

“I was disappointed, but there was nothing that could be done.”

Ms Mattingly said on Sunday there were plenty of exhibitors on site and people everywhere.

“We did really well on Sunday. I think because of the different exhibitors. They really drew the crowds,” she said.

The children’s activities on Sunday were popular with visitors and the come and try fishing program saw lots of fishing rods put to use.

“We went through lots of fishing rods and lots of food,” Ms Mattingly said.

“Sunday was brilliant. I heard a lot of the exhibitors who had never been before say they were astounded by the crowd coming through.

“I said that was what it was normally like.”

The Port Welshpool Working Group’s next Trash and treasure: from left, Welshpool and District Primary School students Elsa Galevent is an indoor market, which will be held at the lagher, Chelsea Whale, Chelsea Brown and Katelyn Doran were getting ready to pick up old ferry terminal on Sunday, January 13. rubbish along the foreshore as part of the Port Welshpool Sea Days Festival on Saturday.

Line in: Thomas Throckmorton from Woorarra East was trying his hand at catch- Sea stars: cousins Mikayla O’Connell and Charlotte Beinke from Traralgon were interested ing a fish at the Port Welshpool Sea Days in the Parks Victoria touch tanks, on display as part of the Port Welshpool Sea Days Festival Festival on Saturday. on Saturday.

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.

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 5

Rubbish relief

By Brad Lester BASS Coast Shire Council will review its landfill collection service in the wake of community angst over the lack of weekly pickup during the summer holidays.

The Star last week reported of full, overflowing and smelly bins over the ChristmasNew Year period, with holiday home tenants arriving at houses to find bins full from previous tenants, particularly in Inverloch.

Landfill bins are collected every fortnight under council’s three bin system.

Council last Thursday announced that in response to public feedback, it would allow people to drop the equivalent volume of their landfill bins at any council waste facilities at no charge, until Friday, January 26.

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said the change was a result of significant community feedback received.

“We understand the impact this has had on our community and our visitors, and we will take all feedback into consideration for future holiday periods,” she said.

“We have endeavoured to increase the kerbside collection but unfortunately this cannot be achieved, as the service is currently operating at maximum capacity.

“At the moment, it is just not possible to make any changes to the current summer kerbside collection timetable. We have heard the community’s frustrations, and we hope the free landfill drop off will help ease some of the issues.”

Waste facilities located in Cowes, Grantville and Wonthaggi are open seven days, and the Inverloch facility is open Saturday to Monday. Locations and opening hours can be found at www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/wastefacilities.

This is the first summer for the three bin system introduced on September 4, 2017. Results from the new system are exceeding expectations, averaging 80 percent of waste, which would have previously gone to landfill, now being turned into compost via the new organics system.

Contamination rates are also consistently low, with a consistent average of below one percent.

“The low contamination rates we have received so far are a wonderful endorsement, that our community is embracing the system and joining our war on waste,” Cr Rothfield said.

Property owners can also increase the size of their landfill bin from a 120 litre bin, to a 240 litre bin service, at a charge of $132.50 per year.

For more information visit www.basscoast. vic.gov.au/waste The Star received comments to the new system on Facebook, including: • David Norton: “100s of cars running back and forward to the tip versus one truck. That sounds like a green policy gone wrong”; and • Diane McMahon: “Perhaps it should be mandatory for a landlord to pay the extra for the larger bins for rental properties. Businesses get larger bins and at the end of the day it is a business after all. Just a thought as it is unlikely that short term tenants are going to take the time to use the system properly.”

Here’s cheers: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club Nippers received a visitor from the sky when the Westpac Surf Rescue Helicopter crew attended on Sunday. Read more on page 47.

Police roll in for holidays

By Jess Anstice MORE police are now operating in South Gippsland to cope with the summer influx of visitors.

Tidal River at Wilsons Promontory has received a police presence and coastal stations have received extra police from other stations.

Victoria Police superintendent Geoff Kedge said, “Police in the Bass Coast Police Service Area are confident their extensive planning for the Christmas and New Year influx will be able to provide an effective policing response to their communities, as they do every day of the year.

“There are adequate staffing requirements to ensure both the South Gippsland and Bass Coast regions are well covered by police 24 hours a day.

“Officers will be out on the road responding to calls for assistance, conducting proactive patrols and preventing crime.”

Meanwhile, Leongatha Police Station will not operate as a 24 hour station for now.

Workload data shows no demonstrated demand for Leongatha to operate as a 24 hour station however this is continually reviewed.

Data from the Crime Statistics Agency shows the crime rate in Leongatha has stayed relatively stable over the past five years.

Whilst there was a slight rise in the overall number of offences reported in Leongatha, in the past year there was only an average of 1.3 offences recorded every day.

In some categories such as property and deception offences, Leongatha has also seen a decrease of 16.2 per cent from 2016 to 2017 data.

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PAGE 6 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Police search for missing girl POLICE are appealing for public assistance to help locate a missing Boolarra teenager.

Breanna Bourke, 16, was last seen on January 2, 2018 in the Boolarra area.

Police have concerns for her welfare due to her age.

She is approximately 150cm tall with brown hair and a petite build.

She is believed to be in Morwell, however she could also be in the other areas of Gippsland.

Police have released an image of Breanna in the hope someone recognises her and can provide information regarding her current whereabouts.

Anyone with information about Breanna is Mysterious circumstances: police are asked to contact the Morwell Police Station on looking for missing Boolarra girl, Breanna Tasty stuff: Lucy Reed and Annabel Rodrigues from Inverloch were trying to stay cool with 5131 5000.

Bourke, 16.

an iced chocolate at the Koonwarra Farmers Market on Saturday.

Market hard to resist

Surf alert

Korumburra’s water supply on watch list

SWIMMERS were rescued from the surf at Venus Bay and Inverloch over the KORUMBURRA’S reservoirs are being watched by South Gippsland Water after THE Koonwarra Farmers Market is held, weekend. falling to 82 percent capacity after recent Lifeguards saved a drowning man at Venus rain hail or shine and last Saturday was dry weather.

Bay’s beach two. no exception, despite soaring temperaKorumburra’s small reservoirs empty quickly Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club president tures before midday.

Craig Watson said, “Without the quick response due to their size, but fill fast after rain.

People did their shopping early to escape the heat and enjoyed a cool treat to help keep the summer warmth at bay.

The next Koonwarra Farmers Market will be on Saturday, February 3.

of a person who assisted and the lifeguards, we would be looking at a far worse outcome.

“The incident took place at number two beach and reinforces the need for people to swim between the flags at all times.”

Two people were also rescued from a rip at Garlic is great: Rod Ferdinands from Inverloch’s surf beach on Sunday, near the InverKardella Garlic was at his first Koonwarra loch Surf Life Saving Club.

Farmers Market of the season on Saturday.

Push for new Leongatha entertainment hub Continued from page 1.

The Star understands committee members in favour of the new RSL are advancing their case for the project to advocate for the proposal to proceed, citing it would benefit Leongatha and broader South Gippsland.

Had council acquired the existing RSL site, it was likely the site would be included within a municipal precinct to include new council offices and a library for Leongatha.

Among those supporting the proposal is RSL president Steve Wisdom.

“If it does not happen, it will eventually mean the death of the club,” he said.

RSL members for the project believe it would help attract new members, young and old, as well as provide a diverse income stream by enabling the club to host large functions by offering extra space, as well as accommodation, to people attending those functions.

How the project would be financed was a

point of conjecture, with significant capital raising – in the order of many millions of dollars - by the community required.

Council mayor Cr Lorraine Brunt welcomed the prospect of a new RSL. “We have been informed the local RSL was not in favour or was not able to agree on moving forward on that project, but it would have been fantastic if they could have come to some sort of agreement on how to best move forward,” she said.

“If they can’t come to an agreement, there is not much we can do. I’m sure there is support from within council, if they do want to do something. It would be great for Leongatha.”

Cr Brunt would not rule out a municipal precinct in the long term.

Council’s existing offices are ageing and were not designed for modern municipal operations.

“You have to think that over time you have to evaluate your office space,” Cr Brunt said.

South Gippsland Water managing director Philippe du Plessis said, “Storages remain at satisfactory levels, however South Gippsland Water is closely monitoring the Coalition Creek system as we move into the second half of summer.”

Lance Creek (services Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Cape Paterson) is 92 percent full, Ruby Creek (services Leongatha) is 84 percent full, Foster Dam is full, Little Bass (services Poowong, Nyora and Loch) is 94 percent full and Battery Creek (services Fish Creek) is 96 percent full.

Rainfall recorded at South Gippsland Water’s storages from December 29, 2017 to January 5, 2018 was Lance Creek 13mm, Ruby Creek 41mm, Coalition Creek 41mm, Deep Creek 30mm, Little Bass 25mm and Battery Creek 7mm.

Customers are requested to ensure they are following the Permanent Water Saving Rules which are in place all year. The top three rules to remember are; 1) Water during the cool – between 6pm and 10am; 2) Sweep, don’t hose – hosing hard surfaces such as paths and driveways is not permitted; and 3) Install trigger nozzles - all outdoor hoses are required to be leak free and fitted with trigger nozzles.

More information is available at the South Gippsland Water Website: www.sgwater.com.au/ services/water/permanent-water-saving-rules.

Any customers who have questions or concerns regarding their water supply can contact South Gippsland Water’s customer service team on 1300 851 636.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 7

Fire danger runs high

By Jessica Anstice

SOUTH Gippsland could be in for hot and dry weather for the rest of summer, resulting in a dreadful fire season according to the Ruby Fire Brigade.

BUILDING OR RENOVATING? Call Capeview Your local manufacturer today Fire ready: from left, Ruby CFA’s Andrew Sage, Darren Hardacre, Karen Hardacre, Nicole Whiteside, secretary Linda Sage, Nathan Hardacre, Aaron Perks, Tim Hardacre and captain Michael Guest have been hard at work preparing for the fire season. familiar with how the pump works, as well as tree hazard awareness,” Mr Guest said.

“Everyone needs to make sure they have a plan for their pets and farm animals on bad days, especially if they are away on the day, and to share the fire plan with everyone living at the house, the neigh-

bours and family members not at the house.”

Not only are fire fighters preparing, but so are the Ruby Reds, the voluntary CFA members who help at the brigade, organising events and catering for firefighters. There are 45 Ruby CFA members and around 20 active operational members.

Worms cause chaos on farms

By Sarah Vella

FARMERS across South Gippsland have been reporting army worm infestations in pasture crops, worse than seen in previous years.

Cameron Brown from Leongatha’s Browns Stockfeed said the caterpillars have had some impact on local hay production. “Although they are pretty well all over South and West Gippsland, they appear to have done the most damage along the coast from Yarram to Inverloch,” he said.

“We are currently seeing an increase in northern hay coming into Gippsland, but probably because of dry conditions in November which had a severe effect on pasture quality and quantity.”

Mr Brown said in combination with the dry end to spring, the caterpillars have affected hay and silage production.

“Some people commented the caterpillars had chewed through quite a few hay paddocks in places,” he said.

“Some people were spraying paddocks to kill them or cutting hay paddocks earlier than expected if they found caterpillars present.

“They were quite common around Gippsland in early December but seem to be on the decline now.”

Hazel Park dairy farmer Kelvin Jackson said his farm was devastated by army worms. He has had to start feeding his milking herd to combat the loss of feed caused by the worms.

“We are feeding vetch hay and have increased the grain ration, because our cows dropped 400 litres of milk in three or four weeks,” he said.

“It is incredible the damage they have done.

“Finally we have stabilised them, but it has come at a massive cost, both in feed costs and loss of production.”

Waratah Bay beef producer Brad Gale said his

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farm had been hit hard by army worms, and in some places he lost around half of his hay.

“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,” he said.

“They are definitely more widespread and worse than they normally are.”

Outtrim dairy farmer Les Hornby said he had to spray the whole farm to combat the pest.

“Where we had cut silage, it wasn’t greening up and all the bare spots were covered in caterpillars,” he said.

“They were eating the grass as fast as it could grow. I have never seen them that bad.”

Mr Brown said the dry and hot conditions experienced in November also impacted pasture quality and quantity, reducing the likelihood of second silage cuts as pasture growth rates slowed dramatically.

Small with a big impact: army worms have reduced pasture production.

Big loss: Hazel Park dairy farmer Kelvin Jackson lost much of his pasture to army worms this season, which caused a significant loss in production from his milking heard.

He has had to increase his supplementary feeding to help combat the losses.

Bad bugs: Peter Notman from Notman Pasture Seeds, Poowong, wanted to see firsthand the damage cause by army worm caterpillars on Kelvin Jackson’s Hazel Park dairy farm.

Mr Notman suggested spraying the farm to combat the pest.

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Captain Michael Guest said rain early in the season would result in grass and bush growing, and produce more fuel for fires.

Ruby CFA member Darren Hardacre said, “The grass and bush areas have dried out really quickly and a lot of the bush is lacking soil moisture and is already dry.

“It’s really significant for us to make sure locals have prepared for the season. Whether they’re in town or rural areas, they need to have a fire plan.

“We urge people to seek the knowledge and prepare a plan. If they don’t know what to do, there is information on the CFA website or they can contact their local brigade.”

Mr Guest suggested residents tidy around their properties, keep grass short, keep wood piles away from house, cut back branches and clear roof gutters.

The Ruby CFA trained once a month ahead of the fire season.

“The training has included ensuring everyone is

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PAGE 8 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Day out: Chloe and Amy Woolley from Phillip Island braved the heat on Saturday to visit Good buy: Tessa and Carly Vuillermin from Yanakie found a few bargains at the Foster Outdoor Expo, held at the Foster Showgrounds over the weekend. the Foster Outdoor Expo at the showgrounds.

Outdoor expo hindered by heat THE second Foster Outdoor Expo was held on the weekend, with attendance down overall due mainly to Saturday’s extreme heat.

Run by the Foster Football Netball Club at the Foster Showgrounds, Gary Bullen from the organising committee said he was happy with the event.

“Saturday killed us and we closed the gates an hour early because the numbers weren’t there,” he said.

“Attendance on Sunday was good and while overall numbers were down, we were happy with how it went.”

Mr Bullen said it was possible numbers were also affected by people winding up their holidays.

“I think we missed out on a lot of patrons from caravan park, who were packing up and going home ready to go back to work on Monday,” he said.

Mr Bullen said this year’s expo attracted the same amount of exhibitors as the year before, including 30 stallholders.

“Even though numbers were down on Saturday, the people who did come spent money and a couple of the exhibitors said they had a better day on Saturday than on Sunday,” he said.

The expo was also affected by high temperatures Cute animals: Lucy Kynaston from in its first year.

Korumburra enjoyed feeding animals in the Mr Bullen said he was expecting the expo to conpetting zoo at the Foster Outdoor Expo on tinue next year.

Saturday.

Scammer caught

POLICE from the Bass Coast Tasking Unit executed a search warrant at a Wonthaggi address in relation to deception offences last week Thanks to information received via Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network (ACORN), police charged a 26 year old male for committing numerous deception offences using Gumtree.

The male was bailed to appear at the Korumburra Magistrates’ Court in March.

ACORN is a national policing initiative of the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments.

By reporting cybercrime and protecting online, people can help make Australia a harder target for Fantastic: Will Cripps from Foster and cyber criminals.

For more information visit https://www.acorn.

Ryan Lavarda from Fish Creek thought the gov.au Foster Outdoor Expo, held at the Foster

Showgrounds on Saturday and Sunday, was a top event.

Business burgled

A BURGLAR stole goods and cash to the value of $5000 from a Leongatha business last week.

“We have put a lot of work into the event. We The intruder forced entry to the rear of the Bair will have a debrief in a couple of weeks time and discuss with the committee whether to run it again Street premises overnight between Thursday and Friday.The thief took money and three spray paintnext year,” he said. ing guns.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Leongatha Police on 5662 2285 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Machete threat A WONGA man has been charged after making a noise complaint to his neighbours while armed with a machete.

At about 8pm on New Year’s Eve, a 51 year old man was annoyed by his neighbours who were whipper snippering.

Foster Police said the 51 year old confronted his neighbours armed with a machete.

He was disarmed by the neighbours and the neighbours’ dog bit him.

The 51 year old reported the matter to police on January 2, 2018, and he has been charged with assault with a weapon and other assault related charges.

Food van targeted THIEVES stole cash from a food van left at the Waratah Bay Surf Life Saving Club at Sandy Point between January 1 and 2.

Between 6pm and 7pm on Thursday, a handbag was stolen from beachgoers at Tidal River at Wilsons Promontory.

Between January 1 and 3, a bicycle was stolen from the vicinity of the Waratah Bay Surf Life Saving Club.

Fire not suspicious A FIRE at Sandy Point on Saturday was deemed non-suspicious by fire investigators.

The incident was reported at 12.25pm.

The fire started after burning underground in an old tree stump which was believed to have been extinguished three months earlier.

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

Highway suffers

By Sarah Vella A SECTION of the South Gippsland Highway between Falls Road and McKnights Road in the Foster hills has deteriorated due to a poor bond between the underlying material and the road surface.

The breakdown of the road has been attributed to a combination of pavement age, traffic volumes and weather.

VicRoads will invest more than $14 million in maintaining arterial roads in South Gippsland this financial year including $4 million on the South Gippsland Highway.

VicRoads Eastern Alliance manager Michael Flegg said VicRoads was aware roads are important to the community, businesses and freight companies.

“This is why we are ramping up our efforts to make them safer,” he said.

“Work to repair deteriorated sections along a two kilometre stretch of the South Gippsland Highway

between Foster and Stony Creek is expected to start soon.”

Mr Flegg said while the surface of the section of road was newer; the underlying material was from the 1970s.

He said the bond between the seal coat and the underlying material was breaking down, causing the stones to roll out of the seal.

“When tyres come in contact with bitumen, they heat it up and it sticks to tyres,” he said.

Mr Flegg said the problem was accentuated because of the steepness of the road, making it a particularly high stress location.

“Large trucks are going up there and the trucks in particular tend to pluck the stones out,” he said.

In order to fix the surface damage, new stones will be rolled in to prevent bitumen from “livening up” and being picked up by vehicle tyres.

“We have really got to choose the right weather to roll new stones into it to keep tyres out of the bitumen product,” Mr Flegg said.

“We need a warm day, but definitely not a wet day. It should only take a day to fix, then we will need to do some line marking to finish it off.”

Extra ambos boost ranks

By Tayla Kershaw PARAMEDIC numbers are plentiful in the Leongatha, but issues still need addressing, they say.

As a result of the State Government’s record funding boost mid last year, an extra 450 graduates from Melbourne have been sent out into the workforce to gain experience from fully qualified paramedics across the state.

Leongatha has accepted seven graduates, but existing paramedics still face pressures around job stability.

“It’s causing an issue because people don’t know where they will be working day to day. They know they are on a day shift or a night shift, but they might be sent to Latrobe or Korumburra. It’s difficult for the young people who have been pushed out of Melbourne to settle,” Ambulance Employees Australian (Victoria) Union president Gordon Bowman said.

The Leongatha paramedic said the union anticipates a large exit of paramedics in 2018-19 due to demographic shift in the industry, but this was unlikely to affect Leongatha, which will only have two or three retirees.

Extra paramedics are unlikely to be funded in the next 12 months if staff leave.

This issue may be addressed if the State Government’s super ambulance response centres are established.

These six stations will offer jobs to 200 paramedics, and there are a number of paramedics from Leongatha on the cusp of full qualification.

Mr Bowman said the demand over the Christmas period had been normal, with only a few callouts during the hot weather days.

“As a town, Leongatha is not often very busy.

Generally, we are called in to help Inverloch or Wonthaggi,” he said.

Mr Bowman said it was interesting to note that Leongatha had only local nightshifts lately, suggesting neighbouring towns also had enough crews to handle the demand.

Wonthaggi team manager Danny Slattery said an extra vehicle was in use in Wonthaggi and in Cowes during the night shift.

“The extra resources have helped. We have struggled in the past due to the workload in December and January, and we’ve needed to call in ambulances from Leongatha and Korumburra,” Mr Slattery said.

“The demand year on year has made these resources a necessity.”

Mr Slattery said paramedics can never predict when they will be in demand – which can make it difficult to decide when extra resources are needed – but they often see surges during summer afternoons.

“In the summer, heat is more likely to affect the elderly in the afternoon. From personal observation, we also see more car accidents. More people are active in the afternoons, so there’s more potential for injury,” he said.

Wonthaggi paramedics are also required to make hospital transfers, which can tie up local resources.

“The Wonthaggi hospital (Bass Coast Health) is bulging at the seams. There’s no growth of beds over the summer so ambulance transfers have to happen.

As often as possible we use non emergency vehicles for transfers, but we do have to use emergency vehicles at times,” Mr Slattery said.

“It can be hard to say if we need more numbers (paramedics). I’d say at the moment we are fairly well resourced.”

Faces of Woorayl: from left, Woorayl Lodge board president Mark Pearce, staff member Di Williams, facility manager Shane Jenkins and staff member Maggie Gruen.

Woorayl Lodge looks to the future

By Sarah Vella SHANE Jenkins is the new facility manager at Leongatha’s Woorayl Lodge, taking over from the recently retired Jo White.

After some time away from aged care, Mr Jenkins thought after 18 months it was time to get back into the industry where his passion lies.

He has more than 20 years’ experience in aged care.

“I have found everyone so welcoming and friendly. Everyone works really well as a team and there is a great feel within the organisation,” he said.

Mr Jenkins said he has a few plans for the lodge, which will include the reconfiguration of the reception area and the introduction of a new computer system.

“We are also in the process of updating the beauty area and will continue to work with the staff to build on education, especially in the field of dementia,” he said.

Mr Jenkins said he would also work hard to in-

crease the visibility of Woorayl Lodge within the community and it has recently become a member of the Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“We are obviously part of the community but it is important to have the connection and let people know we are here to build up our profile,” he said.

Woorayl Lodge is a 40 bed facility with several independent living units and is currently at full capacity.

For the first time in its history, there are three couples living together at the lodge.

The lodge owns land on the corner of Boags Road and the South Gippsland Highway.

President of the Woorayl Lodge board Mark Pearce said that land was currently under review.

He said a site evaluation would be done on the existing facility and the block of land on Boags Road.

“This will help to determine whether to expand and refurbish the existing facility in town, or build a completely new facility on the greenfield site on Boags Road,” he said.

“The study should be completed early this year.

Then we can start really looking at the future direction for the facility.”

Agnes Falls delights visitors said on one of the days between Christmas and the The picnic area was a popular place on Christ- New Year, she counted 40 cars entering the car park mas Day, with every picnic table in the grounds in in just one hour.

“The park has had terrific visitation this year,” use for most of the day.

Friends of Agnes Falls secretary Kathy Whelan she said.

Ms Whelan said the park received nearly 1000 more visitors in December 2017 than in the previous year.

“In the 2016 calendar year there were around 32,000 visitors to the falls and in 2017, there were 34,100,” she said.

Some of the reserve’s park benches have been removed and are yet to be replaced, which Ms Whelan said was disappointing.

She said a recommendation from Parks Victoria states any new seats installed in the grounds needed to have a back and arm rests.

“That could be holding up the reinstallation (of the benches),” she said.

In October last year, the scenic reserve was allocated funding from South Gippsland Shire Council to build a cantilevered viewing platform overlooking the falls.

The $170,000 from council joined existing funding for the $520,000 project.

Ms Whelan said the council would act as project manager and was expected to use the original designer of the viewing platform as a consultant.

“Hopefully the plans will all be completed before winter and the platform constructed by the end of the year, which will coincide with the completion of the Great result: Friends of Agnes Falls vice president Peter Lee and secretary Kathy Whelan Port Welshpool Long Jetty,” she said.

“It all connects the Corner Inlet tourism precinct were thrilled with the number of visitors to the Agnes Falls Scenic reserve in 2017, especially together.” over the Christmas and New Year period.

THE Agnes Falls Scenic Reserve, just north of Toora, has had a busy summer season with around 2000 people visiting the falls between Christmas and New

Year alone.

Friends of Agnes Falls will be at the Australia Day celebrations hosted in Port Albert over the upcoming long weekend, with their information stall.

They will also have Agnes Falls souvenirs for sale and will run a raffle with some great prizes.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

COLUMN 7

col7@thestar.com.au

Jess Anstice

Sarah Vella

Tayla T Tayl a Kershaw aw

Brad Lester

TO reduce your risk of stroke this year, have your blood pressure checked.

The Stroke Foundation said high blood pressure is a key risk factor for stroke and one that can be managed.

Stroke attacks the human control centre – the brain. It happens in an instant and changes lives forever.

Up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable by lowering blood pressure.

The only way to check for high blood pressure is to have it checked by your doctor or pharmacist.

Trying their luck: from left, Kylie Dedini joined parents Barry and Jenny Dedini for a fishing trip to the Tarwin River between Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay last Thursday. The Korumburra family had heard fish were being landed in the river and were hoping for fresh seafood for tea.

Enjoying the sights: this koala thought it might be nice to explore the rail trail bridge over the Tarwin River near Meeniyan on January 2. The animal was quite happy looking at the views.

Surprise find: it wasn’t only the clothes that were hung out to dry at Meeniyan recently. Kate Martelli snapped this photograph of a koala enjoying prime position on the line.

“It was exciting to see him and on the washing line even more so. It was very Australian seeing a koala on a Hills Hoist!” she said.

“The kids’ school has a tree that is named the koala tree and we see them walking around the school.”

The koala delighted the parents of her husband Brendon Martelli. Maxine and Bruce Martelli were visiting from New Zealand.

“We often have overseas guests and from Mel- Cook for a cause: February is Ovarian Cancer bourne, and we love showing them the koalas and Awareness Month and Afternoon Teal time.

People are urged to host an Afternoon Teal to kangaroos on our farm,” Kate said. raise awareness and much needed funds for women and their families living with ovarian cancer.

Teal is the international colour for ovarian cancer, so it’s the perfect excuse to pull out the food colouring.

Ovarian Cancer Australia relies on fundraising to deliver awareness, support, advocacy and PET CREMATIONS research programs.

Leave your pet in the care of a It’s the only organisation to provide specialised local business when that sad day arrives support to women affected by ovarian cancer, and Pearly Mates is a family owned business that has been operating in South Gippsland for five years. their family and friends through support groups, We offer affordable rates and a caring service. phone support and online resources.

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Rotary market popular STALLS galore encouraged people to brave the heat on Saturday morning and head to the Inverloch Community Hub for the Inverloch Rotary Craft Market.

Held inside and outside the hub, the market had something for everyone and attracted a good crowd in the morning, despite the heat.

Many stallholders packed up by 1.30pm due to the heat, but from all reports they still achieved good returns in the morning.

The next Rotary Market will be held on Saturday, January 27.

Rotarians continued to serve the community that evening by staging the annual Music in the Glade from 7pm.

The event continued longer into the night than usual after the cool change arrived.

Local group Stiletto Groove played many popular tunes from the sixties and seventies, as well as their own compositions.

Everyone enjoyed a cool evening picnic with good music and it was unfortunate crowds were down from previous years.

The raffle of three kilograms of prawns, that covers the cost of the night, was won by a family visiting from Melbourne.

Rotary club president Rosa Turner said, “This was the 15th year the Rotary Club of Inverloch has organised this free community event to thank the local

communities and other supporters who have assisted the club, to enable it 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.”

Cool treat: Lou and Ruby Prendergast from Melbourne were holidaying in Inverloch at the weekend and enjoyed an icy treat from Fleming’s Berries at the Inverloch Rotary Craft Market on Saturday.

PEA2420005

Pearly Mates

Cleaning up: Autumn and Casper Ross from Inverloch thought the soap stand smelled great at the Inverloch Rotary Craft Market on Saturday.

Sweet sounds: Stiletto Groove entertains a fun loving crowd at Music in the Glade on Saturday evening, held by the Rotary Club of Inverloch to thank the community for its support.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 11

Venus Bay debates skate park site

By Brad Lester THE Venus Bay community is split over the proposed location of a new skate park for the town.

South Gippsland Shire Council is now advertising its intention to erect the skate park on the corner of Jupiter Boulevard and Centre Road, opposite the town’s shops.

Supporters say that location is public, ensuring the skate park is easy to find and does not attract unsavoury activity.

But opponents say the site was bought by council with the intention of creating additional car parking to ease congestion during the summer holidays

Build it here: supporting the construction of a skate park at the corner of Jupiter Boulevard and Centre Road, Venus Bay are, from left, Venus Bay’s Rod Hard, Freddie Turner, Tom Turner, Sam Ennis and Mitchell Buller.

when the town’s population swells to approximately 7000 people.

They want the skate park built behind Jupiter Park, in Jupiter Boulevard.

Parties for and against council’s preferred site have initiated petitions calling on council to support their positions.

The existing skate park is behind Venus Bay Community Centre, and is out of sight and outdated.

The new skate park will be a street style park with ramps and a flat section, catering for skate, BMX, scooter and blades enthusiasts.

Council has allocated $125,000 to the project, which was identified by the community as a priority for Venus Bay. The site was proposed by the majority of people at a meeting in August 2017.

Leading the lobby for the proposed location is Sam Ennis, owner of Edge of the Earth Hair and Surf, which hires skateboards and scooters. He said he has a vested interest in the skate park going ahead where proposed.

“I feel it’s a fantastic location purely for safety and convenience because it is close to the shops and the toilets are 100m away,” he said.

“It keeps the park in the public eye which is smart because the crowd that skate parks can attract out of the public eye really is not kid friendly.”

Mr Ennis believed there was adequate space on the site for a skate park and car park of a size that would double the existing parking available.

“I don’t want this block sitting here eight months of the year as a car park and not being used,” he said.

Tom Turner’s family runs Agapi Fish and Chips and Venus Loves Gelato, and back the proposed location.

“The skate park would be used more than the car park during the rest of the year,” he said.

Doug Don initiated a petition objecting to the proposed location. He said Jupiter Park was more suitable given it has public toilets, a playground, barbecue and ample space.

Wrong spot: from left, opponents of a skate park being built at the corner of Jupiter Boulevard and Centre Road, Venus Bay are Felicity, Laura and Miranda Kaye, John Classon, Margaret and John Lancaster, Doug Don (kneeling), Marli Feehely, Jayne Scott-Blakemore, Neil Williams, Olga Hutt, Anita Booth, John Hutt, Yasmin Hadfield and Joanne Miles.

Ms Feehely lives opposite the site and said she would most likely relocate if the skate park goes ahead as proposed.

Felicity Kaye has a holiday house next to the proposed site and is concerned about her family’s privacy if the skate park is built.

Resident Yasmin Hadfield said the intersection of Jupiter Boulevard and Centre Road was one of the busiest in town.

Former South Gippsland Shire councillor Kieran Kennedy said the previous council bought the site in 2016 to open for parking from the first weekend in October until Easter.

“We have 2300 blocks, 1700 houses and 38 car parks in Venus Bay,” Mr Kennedy said.

“Sandy Point has 750 blocks and 150 car parks.

This is really a slap in the face to build the skate park here.”

Venus Bay General Store owner Neil Williams suggested council buy land at the entrance to Venus

Bay to create a recreation precinct including a skate park.

Cr Alyson Skinner said, “Venus Bay does not need more parking”, saying she had been able to parking the CBD every day during the holidays so far. Council will receive public submissions until it makes a decision and encourages people to make a submission as soon as possible for issues raised to be considered. ► The petition for the location is available at Edge of the Earth, Hair and Surf, Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club and Venus Bay Community Centre. ► The petition against the location can be signed online at: https://secure.avaaz.org/en/ petition/South_Gippsland_Council_No_Skate_ Park_on_Land_Bought_for_PARKING

Foster pool lures heat beating crowd THE temperature THE temp te mper erat atur uree reached reac re achhed hed 39 degrees ddeg egre rees es Celsius on Saturday, which meant plenty of people were seeking a way to cool down.

Splish, splash: Georgia and Maddie Thompson from Foster cooled down at the Foster pool on Saturday as the temperature soared to 39 degrees.

For Fo F or many, manny ma ny that ny, that meant mea meant nt a refreshing rref efre fresh shin ingg visit visi vi sitt to their th their heir llocall pool. l The Foster pool was no exception, with people taking advantage of the extended opening hours to enjoy a dip.

Keeping cool: Tara and Luke Whittingham from Foster enjoyed splashing around at the Foster pool on Saturday. The pool was the perfect place to beat the heat.

Happy time: Sam Daldy and Tom Vitols, both from Foster, enjoyed a relaxing swim on Saturday at the Foster pool, a popular spot to beat the heat on Saturday.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

OPINIONS

Letters to the Editor

Smelly Inverloch

OUR rates have skyrocketed, yet our services have declined.

E D I T O R I A L No harm in RSL releasing proposal for all to see WILL it happen or will it not?

After the Leongatha RSL committee last year announced it had abandoned talks of a land swap with South Gippsland Shire Council to facilitate the construction of a new RSL complex, it seems the proposal is far from dead and buried.

The Star today reports how it understands committee members in favour of a new RSL are continuing to advocate for the proposal to go ahead.

The new complex proposes a restaurant, accommodation, function centre and on-site parking on the corner of Michael Place and Smith Street in Leongatha.

The venue would create a new entertainment precinct for Leongatha and South Gippsland, complementing the existing cinema, and paving the way for the RSL to host much larger functions than it can now. This capacity would no doubt result in economic benefits for the RSL, and broader Leongatha and South Gippsland.

Any land swap with council would also have the benefit of giving council the chance to build a new municipal precinct that would include modern offices, a new Leongatha library and possibly more, again having local and regional benefits.

However it seems the requirement for the community to potentially raise millions of dollars towards the cost could be a barrier and possibly a significant liability for the RSL. The challenge – for the RSL committee and members, and the community now - is where to from here?

From an outside perspective, surely there can no harm in a more detailed proposal being put to members and the public for consideration and comment?

At least then the pros and cons would be better understood, and enable all parties concerned to form a more informed opinion of the project, whether it be to determine a way over hurdles or to abandon the proposal altogether.

Letters guidelines ALL letters should be kept to 400 words or less.

The Star reserves the right to edit all letters for length and style.

Writer’s details, including full name, address and phone number (not for publication), must be included.

The red bin in Inverloch gets collected once a fortnight and is quite small at that.

It is meant for landfill only and often has leftover foodstuffs in it attracting all sorts of vermin, especially flies. With the annual influx of the thousands of holidaymakers to our town, this collection system is totally inadequate.

The spokesperson for the Shire of Bass Coast would do well to heed the complaints from the ratepayers about the neglect by council to empty these red bins on a weekly basis during the holidays, and not make mealymouthed excuses.

We paid $750 in rates to the Shire of Woorayl, when we bought our Inverloch home in Scarborough Street in 1996.

Now the same property is assessed at almost $10,000 per

They were appointed to council’s Chief Executive Officer Review Committee at a recent council meeting.

Other committee appoint-

THE old Korumburra Kindergarten will be demolished from this month.

“I like having fun with my family in the school holidays.”

Emily Ellery-Burke, Meeniyan.

win

South Gippsland Shire Council will oversee the project.

The facility provided early years services within the town for close to 50 years and many of the local community would have begun their education journey there.

However, the building has reached the end of its serviceable life, which was one of the main factors behind the creation of the new Karmai Community Children’s Centre.

The demolition works will start mid-January and are expected to be completed by early February. The site of the old preschool will be returned to open grassed space, while future options for this site are considered.

Council’s coordinator of buildings Alister Fixter was conscious many locals would be nostalgic about the old building.

“Hundreds of local community members began their education in this old building,” he said.

“Now we look forward to seeing the ongoing success of the new Karmai Community Children’s Centre for future generations.”

AT the last South Gippsland Shire Council meeting, I spoke about extra costs for the Foster town centre work.

Council workers damaged Telstra lids in the road, said may-

Recognition for Macqueen family YOUR article “Macqueen’s Barber Shop exhibition awarded” on page 28 of The Star, January 3, 2018 indicated that funding for the refurbishment of the building to house the exhibition, along

with provision of banners displaying information, came from Korumburra Historical Society.

I wish to point out the funding actually came from members of Lachie Macqueen’s family who were so happy with the memorial to Lachie and his family that they contributed to a fund to finance the finished work.

It truly was a wonderful day for the family with so many of them being able to be a part of the day.

The Macqueen story is quite inspiring and for anyone who has not seen the display you might like to call in to Coal Creek and have a look at it and ponder the contributions of our forbears in this area.

Janet Wilson, secretary, Korumburra Historical Society.

Editor’s note: Thanks for your letter Janet. The Star was supplied with the original information on the basis it was correct.

What is your favourite school holiday activity?

ments were: • Cr Brunt and Cr Argento to council’s Audit Committee, subject to a satisfactory police check; • Cr Brunt, Cr Brown and Cr Maxine Kiel to the Australia Day SOUTH Gippsland Shire Awards Committee; Council is proposing to • Cr Don Hill to the Mossvale charge less rates than perPark Advisory Committee; • Cr Jeremy Rich to the Mu- mitted in 2018-19.

The State Government will nicipal Association of Victoria (MAV) Planning Committee; and cap rate rises at 2.25 percent, but • Cr Kiel and Cr Hill to the council is proposing to increase Walter J. Tuck Recreation Re- rates by two percent.

Bass Coast Shire Council on serve Committee.

Old kinder to be demolished

Ratepayers foot bill

or Cr Lorraine Brunt.

I asked why are ratepayers paying for council’s mistakes and why is council not using insurance, which would be cheaper.

In the afternoon session live on council’s website, Cr Maxine Kiel read out a report and said council workers damaged Telstra pits (not lids) due to their issues, and the cost to repair them and remove six tree stumps of size 300 x 300cm, would cost ratepayers around $250,000. That’s us.

Councillors voted on it to be passed.

Insurance was cheap. Shire, why, why?

David Amor, Korumburra.

VOXPOP! VOX

CEO watch Rates

THE performance of South Gippsland Shire Council CEO Tim Tamlin will be monitored by councillors mayor Lorraine Brunt, deputy mayor Cr Aaron Brown and Ray Argento.

annum for the same quarter-acre block.

The Shire of Bass Coast has found Inverloch to be a wonderful money spinner for its burgeoning coffers, ever since it acquired the town of Inverloch from the Shire of Woorayl.

But still we have no hard rubbish collection and neither do we enjoy free rubbish deposits at the Inverloch tip, as most other shires do.

The least the Shire of Bass Coast should do for Inverloch is to collect the red bins weekly during the holiday season.

Case de Bondt, Inverloch.

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

the other hand, will have to reduce its forecast rate rise of 2.5 percent to comply with the cap.

The government’s cap matches both the forecast Consumer Price Index and the advised limit from the Essential Services Commission.

A Bass Coast council spokesperson said council had been expecting a rate cap announcement in the vicinity of 2.25 percent.

“It is in line with what the Essential Services Commissions has recommended,” they said.

Minister for Local Government Marlene Kairouz said, “The days of Victorians being hit year on year with excessive council rate hikes are over.

“Our Fair Go Rates System is making things fair for ratepayers and is ensuring local councils stick to their budgets.”

“I like going to fun parks and places like that and the movies.”

Sarah Ellery-Burke, Meeniyan.

“I like to play with dad, play with mum, play Zelda and go for walks.”

Casper Ross, Inverloch.

“In the holidays I like to play with Casper, sleep in our tent, jump on the trampoline and go to the movies.”

Autumn Ross, Inverloch.

Fun awaits at Allambee Camp CHILDREN are welcome to join in the fun of Allambee Camp’s January school holiday program.

From Monday, January 22 to Wednesday, January 24, children can take part in challenging and fun outdoor adventure activities, and have time to play and make new friends.

Allambee Camp is 13km south of Yarragon in the picturesque Strzelecki Ranges.

It is the first local camp to offer overnight school holiday programs for children aged between eight to 14 years.

Summer is the best time to enjoy the outdoors and camp life. The wide range of outdoor adventure activities at Allambee Camp gives children the opportunity to build confidence, persistence and resilience.

Campers gain self-esteem, independence, learn teamwork and develop interpersonal skills.

The school holiday program includes high and low ropes, abseil tree, giant swing, flying fox, archery, raft building, billy carts, hut building, geocaching, fun games, time to play and opportunities to make new friends.

As an accredited family owned and operated business, families can be assured their children are well looked after by experienced and qualified camp staff and owners.

Save your spot now and book in for Monday-Wednesday (three days, two nights) or Monday to Tuesday (two days, Up high: Lucy has a fun time at Allambee one night).

Phone Allambee Camp on 5634 4221.

Camp.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 13

Discovery of a lifetime

By Sarah Vella GEOLOGIST Jim Bowler grew up in Leongatha, played football in the town and worked on his family’s farm for 10 years before moving to attend university.

While working for the Australian National University (ANU) in western New South Wales, Dr Bowler made a discovery that changed the views about the period of human habitation of Australia.

In 1968, he uncovered the cremated remains of a young lady, which were confirmed as human remains in 1969.

In 1974, Dr Bowler found the remains of another humanoid, who would become known as Mungo Man. The discoveries are the oldest evidence of modern human existence in the world.

“At that stage there was a big debate going on that some of the early human remains looked much older,” Dr Bowler said.

Some of these early discoveries were made by Murray Black, who was from Tarwin Lower.

Mr Black’s father, George, was one of the original settlers in Tarwin Meadows.

“Murray Black spent his time collecting aboriginal skeletons. I interviewed him in about 1960 and he gave me maps of ancient burials he had found, but I never followed them up,” Dr Bowler said.

“I was up there (Mungo National Park) working on climatic change in the old lakes, from which the water had long since gone.

“I was mapping the shorelines of the lakes and discovered evidence of ancient people, including stone tools and fire places, so I brought it to the attention of my archaeologist colleagues.”

Dr Bowler said that was how it all started.

He was working in an area where wind erosion had removed the top five metres of soil.

“These bones came out of the bottom of that,

Significant find: formerly from Leongatha, geologist Dr Jim Bowler was the man who discovered the ancient human remains, which became known as Mungo Lady and Mungo Man. The bones were recently returned to their traditional owners. which showed they were old. I wasn’t looking for them, but I was conscious of the possibility of coming across human remains because of the stone tools,” he said.

“It was the first in situ evidence that was still in the ground. The paradox was they were human remains and the bodies themselves, not just evidence of people.”

ANU funded the return of the bones to the university, which was where they remained until November 2015, when they went into temporary storage at the National Museum of Australia.

After years of effort, the bones were returned to their traditional owners on November 17, 2017.

“We were aware of the great sensitivity and the importance the remains had to the Aboriginal tribal

groups out there near the Darling River,” Dr Bowler said.

“We had asked for many years to have a proper memorial and a proper resting place for those people.”

Dr Bowler said the Federal and NSW governments failed to provide the necessary resources and showed a lack of respect for the aboriginal heritage treasures the remains are.

“There is nothing like them anywhere in the world,” he said.

“Still to this day, although Mungo Man has gone home, he is in a temporary residence. There is no permanent place to put him.

“That is a case of national scandal. It is a significant failure of the government.”

Dr Bowler said now is the time to really “hammer” the government to make sure there is a future dedicated memorial to those who have died.

“Not just Mungo Man and Mungo Lady, but the thousands of Aboriginal people who died in defence of their country,” he said.

“More than 20,000 Aboriginal people are identified to have died at the hands of white settlers. We took control of their lands at a great cost to them.”

Dr Bowler said there was no question about the value of the discoveries made at Lake Mungo.

“Even though the bones were removed without the permission of the Aboriginal people, had we not removed them, they would have been destroyed by erosion in a year,” he said.

The bones were originally estimated to be between 20,000 and 30,000 years old.

With more sophisticated ageing techniques, the remains of both Mungo Man and Mungo Lady are now considered to be around 40,000 years old.

“They are the oldest dated human remains in Australia,” Dr Bowler said.

“They are the only two cases found in position and accurately dated. And these were not just fragments, in the case of Mungo Man it was an entire skeleton.”

Mobile black spots Positive trend for Bass Coast endangering lives RECENT Know Your Council results show Bass Coast Shire Council is on a positive trend with year on year improvements in many areas.

By Sarah Vella RODNEY Donat was cutting a tree down on a steep section of his Mirboo farm late last year, when he fell backwards 15 metres down an embankment.

As a result of his fall, Mr Donat fractured his neck.

Because the mobile phone service on his farm was so unreliable, Mr Donat said he often left his phone at home.

“The mobile phone service here is pathetic, so I don’t carry my mobile with me because I know it will drop in and out,” he said.

After his fall, Mr Donat had to climb up the embankment and ride his motorbike around two kilometres back to his house, the whole time holding his head steady.

“I phoned my wife Coral first, and told her I had had a serious accident and I thought I had broken my neck and then hung up,” he said.

“I didn’t know what was in store for me, but at that stage, when I phoned my wife I was still standing upright holding my head.

“I was lucky to get through to her. She was at our Wonthaggi property, so she couldn’t help me any further because she didn’t know where I was.”

To boost mobile phone reception in the house, Mr Donat said Telstra installed a yagi antenna.

After phoning his wife, Mr Donat was forced to release his head, because he needed two hands to plug his phone into the antenna, in order to phone 000.

“I had to bend down on the floor and use two hands to plug in my mobile phone,” he said.

By the time he was able to contact 000, Mr Donat was drifting in and out of consciousness and the operator couldn’t understand him.

“Fortunately my wife had the nous to ring the neighbour and luckily he was home, and came racing up to the house and took over the phone call,” he said.

Mr Donat said the mobile tower recently erected at Dumbalk North made a small amount of difference to reception on his farm.

“It still doesn’t cover all of our property.

Once you get over the hill, it is a massive black spot,” he said.

“If the phone is not plugged into an aerial, it drops out constantly. If I knew I had service on the whole of my property, my phone would be in my pocket every time I was out working.”

Mr Donat said he and his wife spent most of the day recently on the phone to Telstra.

“We were simply talking to overseas operators, who wouldn’t have a clue where Mirboo is. At one stage they told me to change providers,” he said.

“It is not on.”

Bad news: Mirboo farmer Rodney Donat, pictured with wife Coral, said poor mobile phone reception on his farm meant he couldn’t call 000 after a serious accident last October.

Know Your Council collects data from all 79 Victorian councils across 13 fields including financial performance, waste collection, sustainable capacity, roads and libraries.

The knowyourcouncil.viv.gov.au website provides a platform where people can access the performance results of their council and compare results.

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said, “The results are consistent with the direction council is taking and reflect council’s focus on continual improvement while achieving efficiencies, which again sees year on year improvement in most of the categories listed on the Know Your Council website,” she said.

Some of the improvements can be attributed to recent service reviews.

In 2015, service reviews in the areas of animal management and food safety highlighted areas for improvement and cost saving opportunities.

Reviewed systems and processes in animal management has seen the time taken to action animal requests reduce from 3.85 days to 2.42

days. Also the cost of delivering this service per registered animal has reduced by 56 percent.

In food safety, the cost of delivering services has been reduced dramatically from $1123.57 (2014-15) to $303 (2016-17).

Council has delivered the same level of services in the area of food safety with fewer resources, and Bass Coast is now closer aligned with similar councils.

“Thanks to continuous internal process reviews, statutory planning has seen application assessments within the 60 day timeframe improve to 75 percent in 2016-17. Since then, our figures for the last quarter show an increase to 83 per cent, which was achieved whilst also dealing with a significantly larger number of applications,” Cr Rothfield said.

“We have also seen improvement in areas that come under governance such as community engagement, decision making and transparency.”

A year on year comparison over several years shows that council’s operating expenses per property have remained relatively stable, and rates as a percentage of property value is aligned with the state average.

To see the full list of results, head to the website knowyourcouncil.vic.gov.au.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Cancer journey inspires baking marathon

By Brad Lester CUPCAKES never tasted so good.

The humble cupcake has raised nearly $50,000 for cancer research thanks to the dedication of Inverloch’s Andrew and Sheila Downey.

For five years they have been baking and selling their famed cupcakes to campers along Inverloch’s foreshore camping ground and locals, as well as Cranbourne Secondary College where they teach, and the Berwick community where they primarily live.

Their fundraising efforts are now nearing $50,000. Not only is that figure remarkable, but so is the number of cupcakes they have baked and sold to accumulate that total: nearly 16,000.

That’s a lot of flour, icing and time by the oven, but the cupcakes have attracted quite a following due to the Downeys’ culinary skills and the fact the cupcakes are made from a recipe from London’s famed Hummingbird Bakery.

“It’s about awareness. Everyone has got their cancer story,” Sheila said.

“If people have lost someone or have been through it themselves, just being able to have a chat about it is a good thing.”

She has her own story, having undergone a mastectomy 10 days after being diagnosed with breast cancer and last year, underwent breast reconstruction surgery.

The Downeys began selling cupcakes to raise the entry fee to enter the walking event, a Weekend to End’s Women’s Cancers, which has since morphed into the One Day to Conquer Cancer walk for Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.

In 2017, the 25km walk took them from Albert Park to Brighton via Elsternwick, Caulfield and St Kilda, along with daughters Catherine

Council tackles homelessness MAYOR Cr Pamela Rothfield called for Bass Coast Shire Council to combat homelessness recently.

She requested council write to the Federal Government, requesting increased funding to essential services and shelter in the 2018-19 Federal Budget, thereby advocating for the needs of the community.

In October, Frankston City Council mayor Cr Brian Cunial wrote to council requesting correspondence with the Federal Government, advising the same request had been sent to all councils in Australia.

Cr Geoff Ellis led the charge to a unanimous vote, quoting national statistics.

“I recently had a briefing with the agencies involved in homelessness in Wonthaggi and one of the things that struck me is there hasn’t been any significant increases in funding since Kevin Rudd was Prime Minister,” he said.

“In 2006, 105,000 people were Food for a cause: Andrew and Sheila Downey of Inverloch have sold nearly 16,000 cup- recorded as homeless in Australia. Alarm- • Bass Coast Shire Councakes to raise just short of $50,000 for cancer research. ingly, 17,800 of cil mayor Cr Pamela Having caught the walking bug, the Downeys these were children Rothfield. and Nicole, and Nicole’s husband Caleb.

Andrew and Sheila continue baking cupcakes last year completed The Bloody Long Walk, a under 10. Twelve year round, selling special cakes for Easter, 35km walk in Melbourne to raise funds for the percent of all Australians and 17 percent of children Mother’s Day and Christmas. In the lead-up to Australian Mitochrondial Disease Foundation live in poverty.”

According to Cr Ellis, 22,000 Victorians are homelast Christmas Eve, they received orders total- and sold cupcakes to raise funds too.

Flavours vary from the mainstays of vanilla less. ling 28 dozen cakes – or 336.

Cr Bruce Kent said local groups provide meals for These summer holidays, they have brought and chocolate, to passionfruit, berry, salted caraseveral hundred cupcakes to Inverloch and sold mel, mint, and sometimes coconut, Baileys and people weekly.

“Our own community is jumping in and leading Kahlua.

230 cakes over two days to foreshore campers.

All proceeds to Peter MacCallum Cancer the way for the Federal Government to make a differ“One lady remembered us from last year and ence,” he said. wanted salted caramel, but all we had was choc- Centre.

Cr Les Larke said he would prefer to see council ►Orders for cupcakes can be placed via olate and vanilla,” Sheila said.

Last Wednesday, they headed to the Cape Pa- the Facebook page: https://www.facebook. set local targets based on local conditions, but happily supported council’s advocacy.

terson Caravan Park for further fundraising.

com/cupcakes4cancer1/

Council: Walkerville works won’t Councils shortchanged on weeds

By Brad Lester affect holidaymakers WORKS to improve the Walkerville North foreshore will not be undertaken until after the Australia Day long weekend to avoid holiday crowds.

The decision was made by South Gippsland Shire Council, Walkerville Foreshore Committee of Management and the contractor so as to not inconvenience beachgoers and boaters.

Council’s acting director infrastructure John Moylan said the works involve the reconstruction and widening of approximately 350m of the existing road, construction of new car and boat trailer parking, retaining walls, drainage, kerb and channel, footpaths, stair access to the beach,

signage and landscaping.

“These works, which are being carried out following the recent reconstruction of the adjacent seawall by the foreshore committee, will result in road and other assets being better protected from erosion, formalised parking for cars and boat trailers and better facilities for beachgoers,” he said.

“Prior to works commencing, the contractor will be required to develop a traffic management plan which minimises adverse impacts on vehicles and pedestrians.”

The estimate for these works is $490,856, with council contributing $192,500 and the foreshore committee funding the balance.

COUNCILS need more funding to deal with roadside weeds that can be seedbanks for weeds that cost farmers time and money.

Bass Coast Shire Council spent $464,000 on roadside vegetation management in 2016-17 and received $16,000 from the State Government.

“Council welcomes the opportunity for further grants and works collaboratively with government and community to improve our environment,” Allison Jones, council’s general manager advocacy character and economy, said.

For the same period, South Gippsland Shire Council spent $40,403 of council funds on weed control, with a further $45,935 in government funding.

But in 2017-19, council will spend $66,897, with government funding only increasing slightly to $46,087.

“Council has received funding for the next two years (2017-19). There is concern about funding in the long term,” council’s biodiversity supervisor Chris Rankin said.

“Council does not currently have the resources to

spray the entire road network in one season. We are also trying to protect areas that have been previously treated to protect a previous investment by council and community, by keeping clean areas clean.”

Council is concerned about weeds accumulating on untreated roadsides but is unable to address these due to limited resources.

“The aim is to increase the areas and roads treated over time as we keep infestation levels low on roads that are currently treated,” Mr Rankin said.

He said more government funding would enable more weeds to be controlled.

“If council was not required to control roadside weeds, the funds would be allocated to alternative programs/projects,” Mr Rankin said.

South Gippsland council is now in the midst of its peak spraying season, which extends from midNovember to the end of March.

Last season council treated more than 1100km of roadside for regionally controlled weeds and hopes to expand on this during this season.

In 2016-17, council treated 1700km – or 64 percent – of its rural road network.

Bass Coast council manages 925km of public road network and spraying is only one maintenance technique it uses to maintain its roadsides.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 15

The Cocky of Bungaree A true blue delight

By Tayla Kershaw WHAT better way to spend the summer holiday than stepping back in time?

Wonthaggi Theatrical Group masterfully transports its audience back to the shearer’s strike of 1893 in its rendition of Richard Tulloch’s The Cocky of Bungaree.

The show opened at 11am at Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s Playhouse at the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine last Thursday, January 4.

The small cast – featuring 12 alternating children aged between nine and 12, nine teenagers and five adults – is bursting with talent, creating an interesting and humorous storyline that’s easy for the whole family to sit back and enjoy.

The story follows the trials and tribulations of Cocky Bourke (Carmelo Pereras), who must meet a deadline of 100 sheep shorn by 4pm to avoiding losing his farm.

In true Aussie fashion, Flash Jacqueline from Gundagai (Megan Kenny), also known as the fastest shearing sheila this side of the Rabbit Proof Fence, endeavours to help Cocky Bourke meet his quota with her mate Fingers O’Halloran (Jack Botterill).

However, the scheming Sir Sidney Harbour (Dustan Britt) has his eyes on the property, and employs the mischievous master of foreign disguises and Scottish criminal Andrew McGregor (Ben Gibbins) to derail the plan.

However, mateship rings true and with a little hard yakka – and the help of a very clever sheep – things begin to look up for Cocky Bourke.

Leads Megan Kenny and Jack Botterill automatically hook the audience with their confident stage presence and talented voices; Megan’s Flash Jacqueline catch phrase “and a fair shake of the sauce bottle” is one

that will surely be reused time and again in local homes.

Ben Gibbins wowed the audience with his swift characterisation, humorously taking on different guises as the show progressed.

Dustan Britt is a star on the rise. One of the younger leads of the show, Dustan portrayed the villainous Sir Sidney Harbour.

Despite a generally unlikeable character, Dustan bought fun and laughter to the role, allowing the audience to enjoy all aspects of the show.

A particular crowd favourite was Max Duff in the role of Gerald, the very clever sheep. Another young actor, Max had the audience laughing with his onstage movements and funny delivery of lines.

The cast was joined on stage by a five piece band, directed by Jacqui Paulson.

The show was directed by Sue Lindsay and co-initiated by Vicki Bristow. Ms Lindsay said the show took just two months to put together.

“Comedy is always a winner and I thought this show would be very funny to do,” she said.

“It’s been wonderful working with the cast, and it was amazing how quick some of the children got the hang of it. It has been a lot of fun. We’ve had birthday cakes and there has been a lot of laughter.”

Ms Lindsay said this was a new experience for most of the children, and it was an enjoyable experience for all involved.

She thanked the committee and the members of Wonthaggi Theatrical Group for supporting the production.

It’s not too late to see the show, so brush up on your Aussie lingo and book your tickets.

The remaining shows will be at 11am and 2pm on Thursday, January 11, and Friday, January 12.

Ensemble: from left, young talents Tabatha Heffer, Becky Heffer, Annabelle Birt, Anna Kesterton, Kyla McKenzie and Julia Lindsay (front) were wonderful to watch in Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s The Cocky from Bungaree last Thursday at the WTG Playhouse.

Crowd favourite: Max Duff had the audience laughing in Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s The Cocky of Bungaree.

Shining presence: Kathy Pegler was awe-inspiring as Diamond Lil Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s The Cocky of Bungaree. Her stage skills and vocals showcased her as a role model for the younger performers.

Leading role: a familiar face in Wonthaggi Theatrical Group performances, Jack Botterill played the comedic role of Fingers O’Halloran extremely well in the The Cocky of Bungaree.

Fair go: Megan Kenny’s character Flash Jacqueline kept the entire audience engagement throughout the opening performance of Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s The Cocky of Bungaree.

Villains: from left, Will Thatcher, Dustan Britt and Isabel Rooks performed well in their respective roles of Mr Cash, Sir Sidney Harbour and Miss Estate in Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s The Cocky of Bungaree.

Classic gags: Andrew McGregor (Ben Gibbins) drew laughs from the audience when his pie landed in the face of Sir Sidney Harbour (Dustan Britt) in Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s The Cocky of Bungaree.

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

Arts centre works on the way

By Tayla Kershaw THE Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre closed its doors for refurbishment recently.

Driving Gippsland: from left, Shadow Minister for Energy, Resources, Renewables and Innovation David Southwick launched the Committee for Gippsland’s (C4G) Strategic Plan.

He is with the Committee for Gippsland board, from left, deputy Regional Development Australia chair Tim Weight, Heather Noonan from the Commonwealth Bank, C4G deputy chair Jon McNaught from GHD, Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath, C4G CEO Mary Aldred, Mr Southwick, C4G chairman Harry Rijs from Patties Foods, Sean Dignum from SDA Strategic, David Mawer from The Performance Attitude, Toni Wakefield from Safetech and Professor Leigh Sullivan from Federation University.

Internet boost vital

THE State Government will be urged to fund a digital connectivity master plan for the region to improve internet services.

The call was deemed an immediate strategic priority for the region by the Committee for Gippsland (C4G) recently.

Other priorities included a new hospital for West Gippsland, a jobs showcase at Federation University, secure support for a Regional Carbon Innovation Centre and undertake an updated version of the Gippsland Freight Infrastructure Mas-

ter Plan.

Longer term advocacy themes including the call for a new low emissions coal fired power station in the Latrobe Valley, water projects in the Macalister Irrigation District invested in, the security of supply for the region’s timber industry, mineral and coal projects, improving skills and higher education outcomes, securing further investment for Phillip Island Nature Park, and the development of a third major airport for Victoria in the southeast.

The Committee for Gippsland also remains

committed to delivering the Gippsland Community Leadership Program, which has grown to nearly 600 alumni and continues to play a critical role in the development and growth of leadership capacity in the region.

“The Committee for Gippsland is committed to driving jobs and innovation opportunities for the region’s future,” Committee for Gippsland CEO Mary Aldred said.

The Committee for Gippsland held its seventh annual general meeting recently in Traralgon, as well as launching its 2018–2020 Strategic Plan.

Once it reopens, the art centre will be more accessible for all abilities and will feature upgrades to the stage, auditorium and foyer.

Bass Coast Shire Council deputy mayor Cr Brett Tessari said it was a shame the cinema had to be closed during the busy summer period, but the timing was best suited to the key users of the building, including Wonthaggi Theatrical Group, local schools and dance studios.

Nevertheless, Cr Tessari is excited about the upgrades.

“It’s something that’s desperately needed.

There was a consultation session to discuss the best time for the closure and the result will be something exciting for the town,” he said.

Cr Tessari was thrilled to note a lift is featured in the design. Having recently attended the red carpet event for Bass Coast Specialist School’s international award winning film at the arts centre, he had his eyes opened to just how difficult it can be for people in wheelchairs in non compliant buildings.

“Sometimes we look over these things and take them for granted, so I’m excited about these new access and safety features. The rest of the building will be completely refurbished and compliant, and there will be more stage space. It will all just bring the building into the 21st century,” he said.

The arts centre is anticipated to reopen in April.

Regional gallery on hold

By Tayla Kershaw ‘GONE, but not forgotten’ is the current status of a regional gallery in Bass Coast.

The concept of developing a regional gallery in the area has been thrown around for a while, and the sudden announcement of funding for a new education precinct has left Wonthaggi Secondary College’s McBride Avenue campus open for new developments.

However, Bass Coast Shire Council said any developments on the site are on hold while the site is still in the hands of the State Government.

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said she hoped the State Government would gift the land to the shire, and endorsed the idea of a cultural hub in Wonthaggi if

that is what the community is looking for.

“We would have to do some community engagement, but if a regional gallery is what the community wants, having it on this site would make a world of sense,” she said.

“It would be a great boon for our community and would give us somewhere to house the generously donated magnificent artworks of Robert Smith, as well as our various Your Art Collection artworks.”

Wonthaggi artist Dennis Leversha said geographically there is a cultural gap in this area, which a Bass Coast regional gallery would fill nicely. The gallery may attract shows similar to those exhibited in regional galleries in Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong and Benalla, which would bring tourists in by the busload.

“There’s a regional gallery is Morwell, but nothing in this corner. There hasn’t been much argument as to whether the gallery should be on Phillip Island

or in Wonthaggi. Although there are some who would like it on Phillip Island, many feel Wonthaggi is more central for artists who live in places like Venus Bay and parts of South Gippsland shire,” he said.

“There is a lot of tourist potential. If we got shows like the Marilyn Monroe exhibition in Bendigo, there would be great benefits for our region.”

A long term goal of the State Government’s is to establish a tourist route from the Twelve Apostles to Wilsons Promontory. At the moment, the car ferry between Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island is the missing link.

If the ferry goes ahead, there needs to be more cultural opportunities throughout Bass Coast to attract people to the tourism route.

The regional gallery is on the backburner until a decision about a land transfer between the two governments is made.

Exciting times: Bass Coast Shire Council deputy mayor Cr Brett Tessari is looking forward to seeing the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre fully refurbished.

Councils prompt complaints Funding boost for water safety THE Victorian Ombudsman received 21 complaints about each of South Gippsland and Bass Coast shire councils in 2016-17, according to the Victorian Ombudsman Annual Report 2017.

Complaints about local government make up about a quarter of all complaints received by the ombudsman, with not all of them substantiated.

South Gippsland Shire Council did not have details of the complaints made against it.

Bass Coast Shire Council’s Allison Jones

said, “The Ombudsman asks us for clarification about some of the complaints it receives.

During the year we’ve been asked to provide the Ombudsman’s office with additional information on six requests. None of these requests resulted in a formal investigation.”

Ms Jones said council was unable to disclose the details of complaints received and neither was the Ombudsman.

In the previous year, 41 complaints were made about South Gippsland Shire Council and 30 against Bass Coast.

FRESH BREWS LOCALNEWS

RECEIVE 10 FREE COFFEES at Leongatha’s Number 9 Dream

THE Federal Government will provide an additional $3 million to life saving clubs and other water organisations around Australia to reduce drowning deaths.

This will enable clubs to buy new rescue equipment, as well as first aid, medical supplies and new technology such as drones to enable remote monitoring of unpatrolled beaches.

Flinders MP Greg Hunt said recent drownings in the electorate highlighted the need for

increased funding.

“Our local beaches are a great source of pride for many people in my electorate, however recently we have seen how deadly they can be when swimmers get into trouble,” he said.

“Two men sadly lost their lives off the coast of Phillip Island, as well as another life lost off Rye Beach during the Christmas-New Year period in avoidable tragedies.”

Mr Hunt said he was also working to deliver multilingual warning signs to protect all Australian and international visitors.

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 17

Street party fun this Saturday GET ready for a day full of fantastic musical entertainment, food and fun for all ages, when Live on Lyon comes to Leongatha this Saturday.

Organised by Leon Gather Events, a subcommittee of the Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Live on Lyon is sure to have something for everybody.

Held from 11am to 5pm on Lyon Street in Leongatha, the day will feature per performances from 10 local musicians, as well as food trucks and children’s activities.

There will also be plenty of opportunity to grab a cold drink from Bair’s Hotel or an iced tea from String and Salt, both located on Lyon Street.

Children will be kept entertained throughout the day with show bags, a jumping castle, face painting and glitter tattoos.

Entry to the event is $5 for adults and free for

children under the age of 15.

Tickets can be pre-purchased as well as purchased on the day. Ticket holders will receive a wristband and will be able to come and go from the festival as they please.

Jodie Clarkson from Leon Gather Events said the group is all about celebrating the community and bringing people together.

“The inaugural Leongatha Daffodil Street Festival last year was so amazing and showed us the community wants more activities and events,” she said.

“All funds raised at Live on Lyon will be put back into the street festival to make that bigger and better this year.”

Ms Clarkson said if the Live on Lyon event is a success, the committee would love to turn it into an annual event.

Lyon Street will be closed off to traffic for the duration of the event.

See movies on the big screen STADIUM 4 Cinema in Leongatha has a movie for all tastes these holidays, from the animated delight Coco to the new political thriller from Steven Spielberg The Post.

Cinema manager Michael Kirk said The Post is a highly anticipated film, featuring Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep together for the first time.

Mr Kirk said the film was a definite contender for best picture this year and will be on show from Thursday, January 11.

For the younger generation, animated feature The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature will also hit the screens this Thursday and features Surly the squirrel and his animal friends.

Already proving popular these holidays, Disney Pixar’s animated Coco continues at the cinema this week. The movie is preceded by short film, Olaf ’s Frozen Adventure, featuring characters from the 2013 hit Frozen.

Another movie impressing

Ready to go: Jodie Clarkson from Leon Gather Events is looking forward to this Saturday’s Live on Lyon event, which will be held on Lyon Street from 11am to 5pm.

Fabulous film: Emily and Sarah Ellery-Burke from Meeniyan had a fun time at the movies in Leongatha last Thursday. audiences these holidays is the remake of the 1995 movie Jumanji¸ which featured the late

Holiday fun: Geoff and Ryan Wyhoon from Korumburra enjoyed a trip to Stadium 4 Cinema in Leongatha last Thursday, to watch Ferdinand.

Robin Williams.

Mr Kirk said Jumanji stars Dwayne Johnson and Jack Black and is a hilarious take on the classic film, suitable for the whole family.

“Jumanji has a wide appeal and has definitely been one of our summer blockbusters,” he said.

The third Pitch Perfect film is currently screening at Stadium 4 and is the final film in the series and sees a capella group, the Bellas, reunited for one last singing competition.

On Thursday, January 18, Maze Runner: The Death Cure starts screening at Stadium 4 Cinema.

It is the third and final film in the Maze Runner trilogy and sees Thomas lead his group of escaped Gladers on their most dangerous mission yet.

Mr Kirk said there is something to appeal to all audiences over the remainder of the holidays.

He said the recently upgraded candy bar now includes a frozen coke machine to make enjoying a trip to the movies even better.

Movie goers are now able to enjoy films in 7.1 surround sound, after all of the cinema auditoriums at Stadium 4 were upgraded last July.

New owners at local favourite: Bree Fennell and husband Shane Jefferis are delighted to carry on the traditions started at Henrietta’s by the Steenholt family. Bree (centre) is pictured with some of the familiar and amazing staff, from left, Elora, Judy (seated) and Mitchell. Make sure you drop in and enjoy a great coffee in the same friendly environment you’ve come to love and say hi.

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PAGE 18 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

STRING and Salt in Leongatha is one of the major sponsors of the Live on Lyon event and will be open all day as part of the festival.

Tasty tea: String and Salt Leongatha store manager Vanessa Watson is looking forward to keeping the Live on Lyon crowd hydrated with a delicious selection of iced teas this Saturday, as part of the event.

Live on Lyon will be held along Leongatha’s Lyon Street this Saturday from 11am to 5pm and will feature live music, food and children’s entertainment.

As part of the event, String and Salt will be running an iced tea stand, with $1 from every jar sold donated back to Leon Gather Events for the Daffodil Street Festival later in the year.

They will be serving the store’s own creations - minty mojito, lemongrass elixir and Turkish delightful.

The store will also have some tastings in store including handmade salami from its Cleaver salumi cabinet.

Helping people is the reward AS the manager of the Salvation Army’s thrift shop in Leongatha, Pam McAlister said volunteering is a great way to give back to the local community.

She has been volunteering at the Leongatha store for 18 months.

Pam said many people are in need and benefit from the help provided by the Salvation Army and the thrift shop.

“It is really satisfying when you can help someone in dire trouble and put a smile on their face,” she said.

“Treating people with dignity and respect is most important I think.”

For people and families in need, the thrift shop provides a valuable resource.

Pam said if they need anything, from blankets to clothing and even furniture, they can go into the shop and choose what they like and the Salvation Army will pick up the bill.

Everything in the shop is reasonably priced and is only sold if in an acceptable condition.

“The donations we get to the shop really help people,” Pam said.

She said while the job can often be hard work, the rewards of volunteering in the store were numerous and meeting new people was one of the best aspects.

“A lot of people out there just need someone to talk to. Getting to do that is one of the good things about the job,” she said.

Big help: Pam McAlister is the manager of the Salvation Army thrift shop in Leongatha.

She said volunteering at the store has many rewards and would encourage anyone considering it to give it a go.

“But because we don’t have enough volunteers, it makes the work twice as hard.”

At the moment, the thrift shop has around eight volunteers. Ideally, Pam said the shop would be much easier to manage with around 15 people.

“If people want to volunteer, they just have to come into the shop and ask for me,” she said.

“Volunteers can work in the shop as often as they like, but the minimum would be at least once a week for three hours or more.

“You go home each day feeling like you have made a difference.”

Avo good day!: With help from Sally Matthews and Suzi Bath of Leongatha Health Foods.

Owner Suzi Bath stocks a great range of fresh, local fruit and vegetables and they also have a selection of products available in bulk including your favourite spices!

Get the best and go fresh at Leongatha Health Foods.

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Support from String and Salt

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 19

Sophie aims for a musical career THE music coordinator for Leon Gather Events is 19 year old Sophie Clarkson from Leongatha, who is currently studying entertainment business management at JMC Academy in Melbourne.

Sophie has coordinated the acts for this Saturday’s Live on Lyon event and was also in charge of the musical entertainment for last year’s Daffodil Street Festival.

Sophie said once she is finished her course, she would like to coordinate a dedicated music festival in Leongatha.

“We have a great, music loving community here and while there are a few festivals around Leongatha, I feel the town would be a great location to hold an event,” she said.

“There is also a lot of great local talent around here, so it would provide a good opportunity for them to get their names out there as well.”

Sophie said one of her goals is to help other people reach their goals and to help further careers and generate success.

“Once I finish university and I have the skills needed to manage a festival, maybe even in 2019, I will look at getting an event out there,” she said.

Join the gardening fun GARDENING enthusiasts are welcome to join in the delights of the Leongatha Community Garden.

Located in the grounds of the former primary school in Howard Street, the garden offers fruit trees, berries and herbs for all members to share.

There is a large propagation tunnel and raised garden plots that can be used by people for a small annual fee. All plots come with water, compost material and gardening tools.

The area also has a community room with kitchen, a playground for the children, a tool shed for communal gardening equipment, composting facilities and a chook house with enclosed pen.

Monthly cooking classes are held and you do not have to be a garden member to attend. Email hello@theculinarygroup.org for more information on classes.

Anyone interested in becoming a member, ob- Sounds good: Leongatha’s Sophie Clarkson coordinated the musicians featured at Leontaining a plot and sharing the good life of garden- gatha’s Daffodil Street Festival in 2017 and also the musicians to appear in the Live on Lyon event to be held this Saturday from 11am. ing can email: gathacg@gmail.com

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Join in the celebration THE community is invited to celebrate the achievements of South Gippslanders at a shire-wide celebration on Wednesday, January 17.

The winners of the South Gippsland Australia Day Awards will be announced then, with the ceremony at Leongatha Memorial Hall starting at 7pm.

The winner of the South Gippsland Citizen of the Year and Event of the Year awards will be revealed, and certificates will be presented to all nominees for Youth of the Year, with no overall winner named.

The event will be hosted

by South Gippsland Shire Council to acknowledge the contribution of all nominees to the community.

Who will be citizen of the year?

THE community spirit of Mirboo North stands out with three nominees for the 2018 South Gippsland Citizen of the Year Award.

Six candidates are in the running for the award this year, hailing from Poowong through to Meeniyan and Corner Inlet.

Their achievements span service to numerous organisations from aged care and op shops, to sporting clubs, education, a community newspaper and schools.

South Gippsland, like all rural communities, relies on the willingness of people to help run community groups, thereby enriching life for those who call the region home, as well as those who visit.

The nominees are:

Denise Rorie, Mirboo North.

John Hattam, Meeniyan.

Paula Calafiore, Mirboo North.

Rob Waycott, Mirboo North.

Scott Bindloss, Corner Inlet.

Wendy Tilling, Korumburra.

NOMINATED by Friends of Mirboo North Aged and Community Services, Denise has been a dedicated volunteer at the Mirboo North Op Shop for the last 20 years and a member of the Friends of Mirboo North Aged and Community Services for the past nine years.

NOMINATED by Meeniyan and District RSL Men’s Shed and raised in South Gippsland, John has been an active community member for most of his life.

NOMINATED by Bernice Snell, Paula is a Prep teacher from Mirboo North who devotes her time to many community organisations.

NOMINATED by Isabel Trease, Rob is the face of the Mirboo North Times community newspaper.

NOMINATED by Gillian Nicoll, Scott Bindloss loves boxing and through his volunteer efforts at boxing clubs in Foster, Leongatha and Wonthaggi, has helped local boxers reach their potential.

NOMINATED by Poowong Tennis Club, Wendy is a pas-b sionate member of the Poowong Tennis Club and an advocate of the benefits of tennis for local youth.

Denise has held leadership positions such as four years as president and is currently secretary. Other achievements include receiving a certificate of appreciation on International Volunteer Day for her community contribution in 2010.

Denise has helped in emergency situations, such as working with the Red Cross and helping people affected by bushfires.

She is also a regular volunteer at her local op shop, helping struggling families or individuals, and helped raise more than $5000 for the op shop.

Denise visits the local senior citizens home and prepares monthly meals to raise money for the community through Friends of Mirboo North Aged and Community Services, and contributes to high tea events and Christmas celebrations.

Her generosity extends to external groups, such as collecting and distributing clothing for women in war torn countries.

He is a member of the Meeniyan Progress Association, The Men’s Shed, and Meeniyan Tourists and Traders Association.

John started in Scouts where he has served 51 years as a participant and leader.

He started a steel fabrication business in 1990 which created local employment.

Since then John has been an avid member of the Meeniyan Stony Creek CFA for 24 years, holding leadership positions such as first and third lieutenant.

John also was responsible for starting the Junior CFA program in 2000.

John identified the importance of the health and fellowship of older men in the farming community who had skills to share.

With help from others, John was able to create the Meeniyan RSL District Men’s Shed in the Scout hall. He was president until this year, after securing the funding to extend the shed.

John was grounds coordinator of the 2017 Meeniyan Garlic Festival. When reaching out to his contacts, friends and the general community, everyone was more than willing to lend a hand, leading to the enthusiasm to ensure this year’s event is even more successful.

Paula has been involved with the swimming pool committee for 10 years and has raised money for the pool redevelopment.

She helps with the annual Mirboo North Idol and movie nights, working on the door, behind the barbecue and selling raffle tickets.

She also volunteers with the Italian Festival, Artspace and Arty Gras Festival.

Each year Paula runs the Mirboo North Football/ Netball Club Debutante Ball where she organises the venue, dance instructors and decorations, and supervises practises. She serves on the gate and in the canteen.

At school, Paula supports staff and runs activities for students, including ‘Mirboo North has talent’.

She has been a member of school council for 12 years and at the school’s art show, acts as MC on opening night and also as auctioneer of artwork. She also leads children each year in the Arty Gras street parade.

Paula has supported the Chaplaincy Committee for more than 12 years, helping with fundraising activities to ensure the program continues at the two local schools.

She also organises the small change tins, food, bookstalls and personnel for the Mirboo North Op Shop.

Rob was a member of the original committee of volunteers who saved the newspaper from extinction in 1995 and has been the paper’s tireless, and often only, reporter ever since.

The paper has played an important role in Mirboo North’s history and covers issues that impact the local township and its residents.

Rob writes an estimated 70,000 words for the Times each year. He also takes photos and has provided a pictorial record of town events over 22 years.

Rob became a member of the Mirboo North Times Committee of Management in 2000 and served as president from 2009 to 2014.

Rob attends events in the shire and beyond, including council meetings.

Rob has been a member of the Mirboo North Historical Society for 20 years. He has contributed to a number of historical booklets and online publications, including a series in 2014 titled Mirboo North – Before the War, which detailed what life was like in Mirboo North 100 years ago.

Rob researched the origins of the Gippslander and Mirboo Times (the original name of the Mirboo North Times). He summarised his findings into a two page article to help mark the 125th anniversary of the paper.

Scott regularly assists with travel arrangements for local boxers and it’s not unusual for him to sacrifice his weekends to travel across Australia, and even internationally, to give his boxers the chance to compete.

In October, Scott led a group of boxes on a road trip from Foster to Perth, stopping at clubs along the way, including in remote areas, to encourage fitness and boxing skills. He has also accompanied boxers to bouts in Canberra and New Zealand.

Scott’s training and support has helped produce many Victorian and Australian boxing champions, and he has helped to improve and develop the lives of children, teenagers and adults in need of an outlet and a mentor.

Scott does this by running boxing sessions five days a week, year round, including holidays. He operates two gyms where he changes only $5 a session to ensure boxing is an accessible activity for most people in the community.

Scott’s positivity and his ‘it’s not all about winning but about working to improve’ attitude are appreciated by all.

Wendy coordinates a mid-week after school clinic and has attended training clinics to ensure her coaching skills are of a high standard. More than 45 children j are participating in tennis activities this season.

Wendy also organises bus trips to the Australian Open for juniors and their parents, and is the driving force behind tennis club working bees.

Thanks to Wendy’s hard work, the courts are always in great shape and the club has secured grants.

Wendy holds a number of positions within the community, including secretary of the Korrine and District Junior Tennis Association, where she has organised junior tournaments, and the Poowong Recreation Reserve Committee of Management.

Wendy was also heavilyN involved with the 50th year celebrations for the Poowong Consolidated School.

Thanks to Wendy’s involvement, there is a commemorative mosaic of the celebration at the school.

In 2013 there was another 50th anniversary celebration - the Poowong Swimming Pool - to which Wendy bought her ideas, passion and energy.

Bank and garlic festival vie for event title COMMUNITY groups present an entertaining and interesting array of events for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike.

There are two nominations for the 2018 South Gippsland Event of the Year award this year.

Community Bank $1 million celebration.

NOMINATED by Promontory District Finance Group, the Toora and District Community Bank Branch, Foster Branch and Welshpool Agency exceeded more than $1 million given back into the community.

To celebrate, the bank invited past and present recipients of the fund to commemorate the occasion.

More than 190 people gathered in the Foster Bowls Club to witness the Youth Assist Clinic be formally presented with a

cheque for $10,000 to bring the tally to the $1 million mark.

To start on the next million, the Foster Swimming Pool also received a $5000 grant towards its new solar project.

The entire Community Bank team was congratulated on meeting this magnificent milestone, with many of the directors celebrating their 18th year on the board of management.

The night was also to thank customers for making it possible for the Community Banks to be profitable, thus providing support to local clubs and community groups.

With growing support from across the region and beyond, their aim is to continue supporting all aspects of the community.

The Community Bank has provided grants to support the youth, schools, health, arts and sports in the region. The bank’s next goal is to reach the $2 million mark.

• Read about the Meeniyan Garlic Festival on page 21.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 21

Youth stand out in the community YOUNG people are making South Gippsland a great place to live, by contributing to local groups and community life.

Nominees for South Gippsland Youth of the Year will receive a certificate acknowledging their achievement, with no overall winner named.

Take part this Australia Day COMMUNITIES across South Gippsland will hold events to commemorate Australia Day, Friday, January 26, 2018.

The public is welcome to attend the following events: • Dumbalk: Memorial Park, Nerrena Road, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Free community barbecue, face painting, prize for best Aussie themed costume. BYO chairs and drinks. Contact Bev Hanley, 5664 4344.

• Foster: Main Street, Foster, noon to 2pm. Barbecue, music, community stalls, raffles and children’s activities.

Contact Marg Haycroft, 0409 338 352.

• Kongwak: Kongwak Hall, 8.30am to 10.30am. Sit down breakfast, guest speaker Aminah Hart, an author featured on ABC’s Australian Story. Flag raising ceremony.

Contact Burt Blackburne, 0408 036 147.

• Leongatha: McIndoe Park, Turner Street, 8.30am to 11am. Guest speaker Chelsea Taylor. Flag raising ceremony.

Music by South Gippsland Shire Brass Band and Janie Gordon. Australia Day awards, children’s activities including a jumping castle and face painting, and free breakfast of a sausage sizzle. Contact Emma Smith, 0419 689 217.

• Meeniyan: Meeniyan Town Hall, 9am to 11am. Flag raising ceremony in the main street followed by a guest speaker in the hall, community barbecue and entertainment.

Australia Day award nominees to be acknowledged. Contact Cathy Waldron, 0408 647 240.

• Mirboo North: Baromi Park, 10.30am to noon. Flag parade, welcome to country, national anthem, announcement of Australia Day award recipients, address by Australia Day ambassador, morning tea. Contact, Thomasin Bales, 0439 378 195.

• Pound Creek: 11.30am at Pound Creek Fire Station.

Guest speaker followed by a free barbecue lunch. Music by South Gippsland Shire Brass Band. Contact Meg Walker, 5674 5520.

• Venus Bay: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club, 9am to 11am. Free Australia Day breakfast, flag flying ceremony and entertainment. Contact Julian Seri, 0438 332 126.

Meeniyan Garlic Festival 2017.

Photo by Roger Keagle.

NOMINATED by Meeniyan Festival and Events Inc, the inaugural Meeniyan Garlic Festival was a huge success, attracting more than 7000 people.

The Marketplace named ‘Garlic Heaven’ had 65 stalls from across Victoria with 70 percent of them from South Gippsland.

The festival focused on high quality food and produce from the region with events for all ages.

The Festival Kitchen had a range of local and celebrity chefs take to the stage for a ‘Master Chef’ style outdoor kitchen.

There were Garlic Games for the young and young at heart which included a jumping castle and face painting, and also unexpected activities like garlic and spoon races,

Hayley Amor, Korumburra.

Natalie Young, Stony Creek.

Rachel Allamby, Korumburra.

Tate Moodie, Kardella.

Jake Waldron, Meeniyan.

NOMINATED by Shirley Margaret Reeves, Hayley is a member of the 2nd Korumburra Scout Troop and a youth leader.

In the last 12 months she took part in a trip to Oman with her troop and was commended on her willingness to help.

Hayley showed great leadership in taking it upon herself to thank all of the hosts on the trip, and was always the first to assist in loading and unloading the bus.

As a youth leader, Hayley is well presented, punctual and committed to her Scouting. She has a great attitude towards her fellow Scouts, and encourages and teaches others.

She shows great initiative within Scouts and also in her personal life, taking on tasks willingly and without prompting.

Hayley is currently helping to start the Venturer section of Scouts for 15 to 18 year olds in Korumburra.

Hayley shows a maturity beyond her age and a willingness to help anyone.

NOMINATED by Sue Miles, Natalie plays for Mt Eccles Netball Club, is a senior member of Meeniyan-Stony Creek CFA and a member of Leongatha Angling Club.

She was a junior member of Meeniyan-Stony Creek CFA before becoming a senior member in 2016.

In 2012 she was awarded Junior Fireperson of the Year for her group and has carried the Australian flag in Meeniyan’s Anzac parades.

She has participated in the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal as part of the CFA’s efforts.

Natalie played Under 15 and Under 17 netball with Stony Creek Football and Netball Club.

In 2016 she umpired games with senior umpires and is working towards her C Grade badge.

She joined Mt Eccles Netball Club mid 2017 season as a player and umpired for Mt Eccles as part of Leongatha District Netball Association (LDNA).

She has taken part in Leongatha Angling Club tournaments and has won awards at club and regional level.

NOMINATED by Korumburra Community Development and Action Inc, Rachel is a member of the Meeniyan-Stony Creek Junior Fire Brigade.

She attends junior training twice a month and the seniors once a month, where she learns how to use equipment.

In 2015-16, Rachel was awarded the junior encouragement award for her contribution to the junior fire brigade. She helps with running events such as the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal, the Anzac Day march, the annual Australia Day ceremony barbecue and other fundraising events.

Rachel is a member of Leongatha Secondary College’s Orchestra, where she has been receiving flute lessons.

As well as being a member of the South Gippsland Schools Music Program tour for the past two years, Rachel travelled to Japan and performed in concerts.

She loves being a member of the band and refuses to let her learning disability deter her.

NOMINATED by Shirley Reeves, Tate is a dedicated youth leader with the 2nd Korumburra Scout Troop.

He is a youth leader and showing his capability to lead the younger Scout troops, Tate has a fun and engaging manner.

Tate recently received a silver and bronze pennant at a competitive Scout camp, and on weekends, hikes and camps with his younger Scout troop members.

A junior member of the Gippsland Gliders Club, Tate has recently received an Air Force scholarship to help him along with his endeavours.

He gives his all in the grounds preparation and retrieval of glider on annual gliding days, where he assists with attaching launch ropes and marshalling take-offs.

Tate is also a long term member of the Australian Air Force Cadets 424 Squadron, where he recently achieved Cadet Corporal.

This required him to give up holiday time to complete courses at the RAAF base Williams Laverton.

Tate tackles tasks with 100 percent enthusiasm.

NOMINATED by Richard Powell, Jake has used audio visual skills he learnt at Mary MacKillop College, Leongatha to help at numerous local events, making an impressive community contribution for someone of such a young age.

Jake started with Auskick, assisting the running of the local event for six years, and for the last two years, has helped erect town signs and Christmas decorations.

For the last 18 months, Jake has been the audio engineer for the Meeniyan Hall, setting up and operating the new Wi-Fi controlled audio equipment for Tavern Nights and the Meeniyan Hall’s 125th celebrations.

Jake helped run Meeniyan’s very successful 2017 Garlic Festival, setting up and operating audio-visual equipment.

He has provided audio engineering for Mary MacKillop College’s production All Shook Up and lighting for Blood Brothers.

He also volunteered his skills to provide lighting for the musical Chicago in Wonthaggi for 13 shows over four weeks.

and veggie sculpture.

There was also a full day garlic education program with local and national speakers talking about the varieties of garlic and some of the uses of garlic.

The event had great support from the local community with 100 volunteers involved in the day led by a committee of 24.

The event had a net profit of $29,000 and an economic benefit of an estimated $642,000 for the area, including a collective profit of $11,000 for involved community groups.

Many stallholders advised of record sales compared to all events attended in the last five years and a combined $150,000 in sales. The profits from the event will be distributed to a number of community projects and used for next year’s event.

With such a successful first year, next year’s festival is one not to be missed.

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Volunteers welcome emergency donations VICTORIAN State Emergency Service (VICSES) units at Leongatha and Foster received new equipment as part of the annual AAMI equipment grants program.

Lighting the way: from left, Leongatha State Emergency Service unit members Anthony Lindhard, Rose Burns and Val Bremner thanked AAMI for donating new torches to the unit.

VICSES volunteers from the units attended an equipment presentation evening as part of the partnership with insurance company AAMI. Val Bremner from Leongatha VICSES said the new equipment the unit received would help the community.

“An overall upgrade and update of unit equipment was required. The new LED lenser torches will greatly assist volunteers during night emergency situations and can be attached to helmets as needed, allowing volunteers to work faster to make scenes safe,” she said.

Leongatha VICSES has 41 volunteers and responded to 189 incidents in 20162017.

Foster VICSES volunteer David Bartley said new lighting equipment Foster VICSES unit received would help make incident scenes safer for emergency personnel and

the public.

“An overall upgrade and update of unit equipment was needed. The new Pelican remote lighting system allows for faster setup at an incident, which enables emergency scenes to be made safer sooner,” he said.

Foster VICSES unit has 25 volunteers and responded to 115 incidents in 2016-2017.

VICSES chief executive officer Stephen Griffin said, “The equipment funded by AAMI helps our 5000 volunteers provide a vital emergency service role in their local communities.”

As well as emergency response, VICSES volunteers educate and prepare their communities for natural hazards and undertake accredited training year round to keep their skills sharp.

“We have provided more than 1700 pieces of new equipment to SES volunteers across Victoria. Equipment presented to units includes chainsaws, motorised hydraulic kits and remote area lighting,” Simone Taylor, AAMI customer engagement and sponsorships manager, said.

To learn more about SES and volunteering, visit: www.ses.vic.gov.au/volunteer

Illuminating gift: David Bartley of Foster State Emergency Service welcomed the donation of new lighting equipment by AAMI.

Dan brings railway to life DAN Lawrie first struck an interest in model trains as a

boy.

These days he shapes the landscape of Venus Bay

Up close: Dan Lawrie of Venus Bay built his impressive model railway named Delsbury Hill.

as a real estate agent, but still loves creating miniature worlds for the enjoyment of himself and others.

The Venus Bay resident recently showcased a model railway he built for the public to enjoy, holding a display at Tarwin Lower Mechanics Institute and Memorial Hall.

“The layout is a OO gauge digitally controlled layout based on a fictional English village named Delsbury Hill. I’ve been interested in model trains since I was about eight, and these days I particularly enjoy modelling English style towns and countryside,” he said.

“On Delsbury Hill, I’ve added some extra points of interest which include sound locomotives, moving scale chickens, real miniature flash photography in the wedding scene, and even a welder whose welder flashes when children press the interactive button.

“I also have a bus that twists and turns its way through the town and village and around the layout, something that was a really popular feature with every-

one who came to see the display.

“There are plenty of buildings, people and vehicles, as well as street lights and a burning building with lights and smoke.”

Mr Lawrie said scale modelling is a creative outlet, and he enjoys all aspects of the layout build, from the carpentry involved in the base board construction, to the plaster work, paint work and finer detailing of constructing buildings, weathering surfaces, and adding scenery such as grasses and trees.

“I decided to display the layout these Christmas holidays as many people, over the last few years, said I should give people the opportunity of checking it out as they may be interested,” he said.

“I thought I’d give it a shot, and with the amazing help from family and friends, it all came together.

After feedback from everyone who came along, I’m now thinking of making this an annual event.”

The final viewing was held last Wednesday evening.

Mayor’s message Cr Pamela Rothfield

HAPPY New Year! Here we are in 2018 already!

In my childhood, I imagined that we would be driving Jetson like flying cars by now and possibly flying around with a jetpack attached to our backs!

Whilst we still do not have jetpacks, I’m delighted to say our shire is nevertheless really on the move.

Our momentum, rather than coming from space age flight, emanates from our Council Plan, which commenced with massive community engagement a year ago, in January 2017 through to its adoption in June.

Following that was the introduction of the new three bin system in September, and the $31 million funding announcement for the Wonthaggi Secondary College’s new senior campus ($25 million) and Wonthaggi High Ball Stadium ($6 million) in November - and this is just the tip of the iceberg.

The past 18 months have seen major investment in Bass Coast from the State Government, including $58.2 million in the Philip Island Penguin Parade upgrade; $3.2million from VicRoads

for future infrastructure improvements on Phillip Island Road; $3.5 million from the State Government matched by $3.5million from Federal Government for the Woolamai Beach roundabout; $1.52 million from the State Government toward the Wonthaggi traffic lights was matched by $1.52 million from Federal Government; and an additional $1.3 million from Federal Government towards safe roads in Woodleigh and Coronet Bay. The Jetty Triangle and Transit Centre project received $1.8 million from the state government’s Regional Development Victoria, and sports and recreation funds from the State Government came through including Wonthaggi Netball Courts ($100,000), Bass Netball Courts ($100,000) and Cape Paterson Surf Lifesaving Club ($2.3 million).

Turning the corner into this New Year, we have hit the ground running and I am delighted to return for a second term as mayor with fellow councillor Bret Tessari as my deputy mayor once again.

The knowledge we have gained and trust we have built from our first term means we can capitalise on our current momentum and keep moving forwards, particularly in the space of advocacy and major projects.

In 2018 we will continue to work on building our investment portfolio to add the key items listed on our Advocacy Strategy: Phillip Island Integrated Transport Study stage two; • Cowes Jetty Replacement; • Wonthaggi Hospital upgrade to sub-regional status; • 24 hour medical solution for Phillip Island; • Wonthaggi North East Precinct Key infrastructure; • South West Gippsland Transport Strategy; and • transfer of the (current) Wonthaggi Secondary College senior campus site to council.

I am thoroughly excited for the year ahead and hope that it is a happy, healthy and safe one for all of us in Bass Coast Shire.

Station master: Venus Bay’s Dan Lawrie enjoyed showing his model railway Delsbury Hill to the community at the Tarwin Lower Mechanics Institute and Memorial Hall recently.

Indigenous duo to be remembered FEW people in South Gippsland know their history and the story of Indigenous men Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheener.

They were brought from Tasmania by George Augustus Robinson, during the 1840s, the most intense period of frontier violence in the history of the Port Phillip district.

Tunnerminnerwait had survived the Cape Grim massacre of his people and documented, with Augustus Robinson, the aftermath of the Convincing Ground massacre near Portland.

Tu n n e r m i n n e r w a i t , Maulboyheener, Truganini, Planobeena and Pyterruner headed out from the small white settlement of Melbourne towards Westernport.

They took a stand against white occupation of their land for eight weeks, raiding settlers’ huts and taking food and ammunition. They moved towards the Bass Coast, possibly looking for Pyterruner’s husband Probelattener, who had disappeared in the region.

One fateful day, they faced confrontations first with the Cape Paterson mine overseer William Watson and then with two whalers on the coast, which left the two whalers dead.

Tunnerminnerwait and the group were captured near the present Wonthaggi Heathlands.

Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheener were found guilty of the murders. In a

Not forgotten: a gathering in Wonthaggi will remember Indigenous men Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheener, hung in Melbourne in 1842 for the murder of two whalers. botched and horrific spectacle, the men were hung near the old Melbourne Jail on January 20, 1842, watched by thousands of spectators.

In 2006, annual gatherings began on January 20 at the spot where they were hung.

The Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner Commemoration Committee was formed to acknowledge the past and take the first step towards reconciliation based on justice.

A substantial monument to the freedom fighters now stands there, in their memory.

In 2017, speakers at the rally asked people to remember the freedom fighters in their own areas.

“The Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group, supported by the Bunurong Land Council, has taken a first step towards a wider understanding of the indigenous heri-

tage of the area by telling their story,” Anne Davie, reconciliation group member, said.

Another group member, Jessica Harrison, said, “The Melbourne event will take place on the same day. Our group plans a commemoration gathering on January 20 in the Bass Coast every year.”

The event will be held at ARTSPACE Wonthaggi, in the garden, McKenzie Street, Wonthaggi, gathering at 11am to acknowledge country.

A dramatic reading of the men’s story will be conducted by Mary Mutsaers and Gill Di Stefano, followed by the group’s response and one minute’s silence. The song Footprints will be performed. Bring a chair for comfort.

Drinks and lunch at Wonthaggi Hotel (Whalebone), 2 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi, to follow.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 23

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 25

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 27

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

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The beautiful home has been fully renovated and extended to the highest of standards, and the gardens are exquisite.

The gentle, well sheltered lay of land is as clean as a whistle. Shedding is fantastic and the water supply endless due to permanent spring fed dams. All of this is just minutes by car from town.

An impressive driveway sweeps right up through an undercover front entrance.

A strong emphasis has been placed on heritage detail with nine foot ceilings, decorative cornices, floorboards, elegant window furnishings and quality fixtures throughout.

The kitchen includes two pack cabinetry, granite benchtops, two corner pantries and quality appliances.

An adjoining dining room and separate lounge are both elegant and luxurious, while a conservatory is the perfect place to enjoy lovely views over the farm. Bedrooms are generous; the main is a palatial, virtually selfcontained suite (bedroom section, butlers kitchen/meals/sitting areas, French doors out to decking and full ensuite), suggesting possibilities for B and B business.

Double glazed windows and a 12 unit solar pack reduce energy costs.

The well maintained farmland offers good soils, excellent fencing plus Norton Stockyards and cattle crush.

AUCTION KOONWARRA 6 Minns Road Feb 10 at 12pm

SEJ Real Estate Leongatha 5662 4033

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Shedding includes two machinery sheds, a fantastic Colorbond shed with separate office, storage, ‘man cave’, insulated ‘lady cave’ and two bay parking. The homestead is complemented by stunning gardens, a sight to behold; beds designed along various themes, arbours, fountains, orchard, Pinot Noir vineyard and arboretum of deciduous trees.

A covered barbecue area with outdoor kitchen, ‘Summer House’ and undercover outdoor lounge are all places to relax and entertain.

Gardens are well serviced by a hot house, potting shed and other quirky buildings.

Call to inspect this exceptional property.

Peter Dwyer Alan Steenholdt 0428 855 244 0409 423 822

380 BoolarraMirboo North Road Insight Real Estate Leongatha 5662 2220

$1,100,000

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Add in the practicalities of the rear extension with updated kitchen, bathroom, study/ fourth bedroom and outdoor entertaining area, and you’ve got a home that’s sure to appeal.

Hydronic heating throughout the house is supplemented by two reverse-cycle air

conditioners, plus a wood heater in the front lounge room.

The three bedrooms all have high ceilings and generous dimensions, typical of the era.

The outdoor area overlooks the secure rear yard, with the added bonus of fitted patio blinds for year round enjoyment.

A colourbond garage/workshop measures approximately 5m x 7m.

This is a home with genuine character, located in a quiet area, and yet is only 600m from shops and supermarkets.

HAT a prestigious, extraordinary property Carrickvale is!

LI N ST EW IN G

ith its bullnose verandah, high ceilings, central hallway and baltic pine floors, there’s no mistaking the period charm of this home.

Exceptional property, inside and out W MIRBOO NORTH

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Edwardian charm in Leongatha W LEONGATHA

It offers 9.98 perfect acres with a three bedroom renovators delight!

The land lays perfectly, with the home positioned nicely on the top of the rise.

The property features secure grazing paddocks with most of the fencing recently upgraded, a large open bay machinery shed, a disused dairy, cattle yards and loading race, and water storage tanks, plus a holding dam for stock and garden water.

The home is a very modest three bedroom weatherboard and oozes character of times gone by. It is a great canvas to work with and add your own flare.

This is an estate sale and the agents have clear instructions to sell.

The property is open for inspection on Saturdays, January 13, 20, and 27, and Saturday, February 3, from 11am to 12pm.

Contract of sale and Vendor Statement documents will be available to view early January 2018.

Terms 10 percent deposit, balance 30/60 days.

Please contact agents in conjunction: Alex Scott and Staff Leongatha or SEJ Leongatha for more details.

33 RITCHIE STREET, LEONGATHA

43 FALLS ROAD, FISH CREEK

24 ECCLES WAY, LEONGATHA

93-101 JOHNSONS ROAD, KOONWARRA

• Charming Edwardian style home in quiet location • 3 bedroom plus study, outdoor entertainment area • Hydronic heating, RC/AC, wood heater

• 3 bedroom home on large block • Wood heater, RC/AC, sunroom • 100m from football oval and bowls club

• New home under construction by Kyle Custom Building • Due to be completed early 2018 • Quality build - 3 bedroom + study, 2 bathroom

• 6 acre property in peaceful location • 3 bedroom home, master with ensuite • Fenced paddocks, dams, orchard, stockyards

$349,000

$235,000

$452,000

$595,000

5 RIDGEWAY STREET, LEONGATHA

61 KOONWARRA ROAD, LEONGATHA

13 RITCHIE STREET, LEONGATHA

1/61 SHINGLER STREET, LEONGATHA

• 4 bedroom + study, master with ensuite • North facing 990m2 block • Great position! 300m from Leongatha’s CBD

• Solid 2 bedroom home, close to the main street • Blank canvas ready for a personal touch • Get into the market with this one

• Family sized home in perfect central location • 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, plus a bungalow • Quiet street with side lane access

• As new quality town house • 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom • Quick settlement available

$215,000

$349,000

NEW PRICE $320,000

$469,000

990m2

6 ACRES

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

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The kitchen boasts all the commodities of an electric oven and cooktop, range hood and dishwasher, and the home is climate controlled by a reverse cycle air conditioner. There is a new hot water service, and a large 50,000 litre water tank.

The surrounding acreage is gently undulating and well fenced. The options here are endless. So don’t miss the opportunity to sit back and relax on the veranda and create a great lifestyle close to town.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 29

Young drivers safer VICTORIA’S Graduated Licensing System is reducing the risk of crashes for young drivers and saving lives, according to an independent review.

The study found drivers who had been through the new system are 20 percent less likely to have a serious crash in their first two years on the road.

The VicRoads report shows drivers who have had to log a minimum of 120 hours of supervised learner driving experience and complete a two-stage probationary licence process have lower crash rates and show better driving behaviours than drivers licensed under the old system.

The most high risk crash group – P-Platers in their first year of driving – are 19 percent less likely to be involved in a fatal or serious crash under the system.

For P1 licence holders, the ban on carrying more than one passenger aged 16-22 years has been effective, with involvement in crashes while carrying two or more peer passengers down 70 percent.

The evaluation found further work was required to reduce the crash rates of novice drivers aged 21 to 23years.

The report also found an increase in speed and mobile phone use offences among probationary drivers.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Safe, sound: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club runs a successful Nippers program to teach young people about beach safety and fitness.

Ladies on patrol even safer beach for this season.

“Venus Bay is rated one of the most dangerous beaches in Victoria. Rips are hard to identify and currents change quickly.”

The Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club Mr Watson urged people to only Sale on now: Edney’s Leongatha sales consultant Heather Walker can is trialling a female-only patrol this seaswim at beach one as it is the only beach help you find the perfect car to suit your needs during the dealership’s son to celebrate diversity. to have red and yellow swimming flags. massive 2017 Hyundai plate clearance sale throughout January.

With back-to-back Victorian Club of “It is by far the safest place to swim the Year awards, the lifesavers at Venus and because of our record membership, Bay have the ability and skills to ensure record number of lifesaving qualificabeach-goers have a pleasant experience tions and record patrol hours, we manin the surf this summer. aged to reduce rescues by 600 percent In addition to regular patrols, memlast season, meaning that swimming at bers are taking part in masters and Inflatnumber one beach is safer than it has able Rescue Boat competitions. ever been,” he said.

A NEW set of wheels could are no hidden fees or surprises along the drive you into the New Year in way.Hyundai does not compromise on style. safety, and all passenger cars meet the Edney’s Leongatha is offering fantas- ANCAP five star rating. One of the tic deals in its 2017 Hyundai plate clear- strengths of the Hyundai range is the cars ance sale for the month of January, so it have been tested and designed to with“The P2E program aims Council prepared and help BASS Coast Shire and interviews. is the prime time to pick out a brand new stand the conditions of Australian roads.

The session was part of an students to partake in mock to empower young people Council recently hostcar for a fresh year ahead.

Whether you are travelling long distances eight week program run by interviews, where students with disabilities to build their From $16,990, you could be driv- or over harsh road conditions, a Hyundai ed a Passport 2 Em- the National Disability Co- were simulated through the job confidence and skills in leadployment (P2E) ses- ordination Officer Program interview process of arriving ership and self advocacy,” she ing away in an Accent Sport auto 1.6. model is built for the challenge.

The I30 GO is set at $22,990 driveaway, All cars are equipped with Apple and sion, where human and South Gippsland Local at reception and introducing said.

“By building these skills and the Tucson auto Active X is $31,990 Google CarPlay, an exciting feature and themselves, going into an interLearning and Employment resources staff worked safer option to connect your smartphone view, presenting their resume, we are providing clearer driveaway.

A particularly popular model recently to your car, allowing you to use Google with students from Network. pathways and assisting them The innovative program and answering questions.

Mayor Cr Pamela Roth- in seeking, finding, obtaining is the Tucson two litre auto Active; a spa- maps and get directions on the go.

Bass Coast Specialist helps secondary school stuEdney’s Leongatha is known for its fi eld explained the impor- and retaining employment cious small car priced at $29,990. dents build practical skills School to give them The model features 17 inch alloy care and professionalism, and its helptance of being involved in and further training opportuand access opportunities for experience in preparwheels, Apple CarPlay, a rear view cam- ful staff can help you find the right fit for further education, training initiatives such as the P2E nities.” ing for job applications and employment. you.

The curriculum for the era and cruise control. program.

Its load space is class leading and it has The customer’s experience is enP2E program is based on cabeen named one of the best in the small hanced by the state of the art showroom, reer planning. enabling you browse the range with Program sessions include car category for three years in a row.

The all new Kona Active is also pop- ease. an industry tour and opporAll models are designed for safety, tunity to meet with potential ular among the older demographic, as it comfort and style, so don’t miss out on future employers, learning is a small car with easy access.

Every car is backed by five year un- this opportunity to drive home in somehow to dress appropriately for an interview, and mock limited kilometre warranty, and all offer thing new and exciting this month. a lifetime service plan, ensuring there Get in quick, as stock is limited. interviews.

Since its establishment, the program has been delivered in Portland, Warrnambool, Horsham, Geelong, Colac and Gippsland.

The Gippsland Local Learning and Employment Network group aim to roll the P2E program out to a number Gearing up: Passport 2 Employment participants prepared for their mock inter- of additional locations in the future. view with council staff.

DON’T be surprised if you have see a female-only patrol of lifesavers on the beach at Venus Bay this summer.

Club membership is up 100 percent over the past four years and now stands at 540 members.

In other events, the club raised awareness of the Respect our Rivers campaign with an Ironman Relay Marathon in the Tarwin River recently, and the club will hold dinners on Saturday nights throughout January.

The club hosted the Stony Creek Ladies Marquee yesterday (Monday) for the Stony Creek Racing Club.

Club president Craig Watson said, “The beach is in great shape and we will have brand new group of bronze medallion qualified lifesavers to provide an

Outstanding deals at Edney’s Leongatha

Students ready to work

South Gippsland not a rubbish dump ILLEGAL rubbish dumping continues to be an ongoing issue in South Gippsland.

According to South Gippsland Shire Council, there is often one or two call outs to remove illegally dumped rubbish a week.

The fine for illegally dumping is around $16,000 or one month’s jail.

South Gippsland Shire Council has waste facilities in Koonwarra, Foster, Korumburra, Mirboo North, Walkerville, and Venus Bay. Fees and charges – as well as opening hours – vary at each site and more information can be sourced from www.southgippsland.vic. gov.au/tips.

Dumped: The Star received a complaint about illegal rubbish dumping on Wild Dog Valley Road recently. Although no official complaint was filed in this case, South Gippsland Shire Council said it New Year, new car: come in to Edney’s Leongatha and see sales conreceives reports of illegal dumping each sultant Heather Walker to find out more about the 2017 Hyundai plate clearance sale on now. week.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 31

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Council broadens students’ horizons BASS Coast Shire Council is providing practical support and industry expertise to students as part of Gippsland wide innovative learning program Broadening Horizons.

Practical learning: Bass Coast Shire Council’s Jacqui Baillie worked with Korumburra Secondary College Year 8 students on the Broadening Horizons project.

Now in its fourth year, the Broadening Horizons program brings employers and secondary schools together to design and deliver a community based project.

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield is proud of the real world learning opportunities the program provides to young people.

“Classroom learning is taken to another level when students work on challenges and projects that actually exist,” she said.

“This program is a great example of local government working closely with the school community to prepare students

for life beyond the classroom.”

In working with students, workplaces have lots to gain from the insights and creative minds of young people.

This was more evident at the recent presentation given by Korumburra Secondary College students to Bass Coast Shire Council.

“Students presented ideas on how to make our website more user friendly, which ties in perfectly with our current website redevelopment project,” Cr Rothfield said.

The program involves secondary schools partnering with one or two employers.

The Broadening Horizons project was initiated by the Gippsland Regional Managers’ Forum and the Department of Education and Training.

Submissions demand McMillan name change A BID to change the name of the McMillan electorate has amped up following the first round of suggestions for the redistribution of Victorian federal electorates.

Of 67 submissions lodged to the Australian Electoral Commission, more than 20 requested McMillan change its name.

Many find the name McMillan inappropriate because it is named for European explorer Angus McMillan, who is linked to Indigenous Australian massacres in Gippsland.

Bass Coast Shire Council’s Cr Geoff Ellis put forward a submission on the grounds McMillan was not a prime minister, a man of Indigenous origin, or a deceased Australian who rendered outstanding service to his country.

Cr Ellis pointed out that celebrating McMillan was effectively erasing Indigenous presence in Gippsland, and his treatment of Indigenous people was beyond redemption.

A submission made by South Gippsland councillors Don Hill, Andrew McEwen, Alyson Skinner and Jeremy Rich stated that McMillan has been perversely honoured and memorialised, and it was time to put an end to

acknowledging someone who terrorised Indigenous communities.

Bunjileene-Purrine has been suggested to replace the name McMillan.

Bunjileene was a tribal chief of the Gurnaikurnai people in the area, and Purrine was head of the Lowanjerri and Yowengerra tribes of the Bunurong people. These names reflect real Australian ancestors, capture the spirit of shared histories, and support the notion that Australia is a multicultural country with equal rights for all.

Other suggestions included renaming the electorate after Gippsland settler Samuel Anderson, pioneer Hazel Bennett or Australian anthropologist, explorer and naturalist Alfred William Howitt.

This has been a campaign by the West Gippsland community for around 15 years. The redistribution occurs every seven years, and the campaign has been building momentum since 2010.

This round of submissions closed on December 1, which included objections and public comment. A public hearing will occur this year before a recommendation is put toward parliament.

Objectors to McMillan want to see a decision made by July or August, before the state election.

Way to go: from left, Tristan Forster of Kane Constructions; Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change; John Eren, Minister for Tourism and Major Events; Jeff Floyd, chair, Phillip Island Nature Parks; and Catherine Basterfield, CEO, Phillip Island Nature Parks celebrate the appointment of Kane Constructions to build the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre.

New Penguin Parade Visitor Centre gets underway THE recent announcement by Lily D’Ambrosio MP, Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, of the appointment of

A Star is born

a building contractor to start construction of the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre, means a new phase of the Nature Parks story gets underway.

Phillip Island Nature Parks is partnering with Kane Constructions to build the new centre and associated car parking. On completion of the centre in 2019, the old visitor centre will be demolished and the current bus car park removed. The land will then be established as new penguin habitat.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Kane Constructions on this exciting project that will deliver

some outstanding environmental outcomes as well as a significant boost to jobs and tourism in regional Victoria,” Jeff Floyd, Phillip Island Nature Parks’ chair, said.

Catherine Basterfield, Phillip Island Nature Parks’ CEO, said, “We are confident the outstanding design created by Terroir architects will be brought to life

by Kane Constructions and provide our visitors with an enhanced experience.

“Importantly, this project will also allow us to rehabilitate 6.7 hectares of crucial penguin habitat.” As one of Australia’s most popular wildlife attractions, the Penguin Parade welcomed more than 700,000 visitors last year and more than 1.4

million visitors to all of the Nature Parks’ attractions.

This investment by the State Government will ensure Victoria remains at the forefront of global tourism, with a forecast visitation increase of up to 20 percent over the next 10 years.

“Importantly, this new building will provide not only the base for an evening penguin experience, but also a daytime centre for local residents and visitors to understand and enjoy the whole Summerland Peninsula,” Mr Floyd said.

Construction is scheduled to start in February 2018 with completion due in late 2019. A model of the new visitor centre will be on display in the current centre.

Burn offs prompt call for law review RESIDENTS of Leongatha’s Chamberlain Drive are calling for changes to local laws.

OTIS William Donald Trewin was born at Bass Coast Health on November 28, 2017. He is the second child for Emily Wright and Jason Trewin of Archies Creek, and a brother for Arthur, 2.

WILLIAM Simon Mulherin was born on January 4 at Leongatha Hospital. He is the second son for Tim and Olivia of Leongatha and a brother for Ben, 22 months.

Chamberlain Drive sits on the border of residential zone and farming zone, and recent burn offs in the area have caused alarm.

Although South Gippsland Shire Council confirmed farmers are within their rights to burn off on farming land, the residents feared the fires were too close to their homes and could cause damage.

Burn offs were lit late last year and the hot weather caused further concern for the residents. Council’s local laws coordinator Bruce Gardiner said the fire danger period had not started at the time.

“There needs to be more protection for farmers and residents to be able to live cohesively,” one resident – who wished to re-

main anonymous – said.

“If one of those embers strays while we are asleep at 2am, our property could go up quickly. We have an asthma sufferer in our home and we weren’t given prior notice to get her out. All we can do is stay up and keep watch.”

The resident said new laws need to be considered – not only to protect farmers and residents involved – but also to protect the neighbouring parks and schools.

Mr Gardiner said a review was on the way.

“We are looking at some changes to our local laws, but they are some months away.

The public will be asked to comment at the relevant time,” he said.

Mr Gardiner advised residents to obtain independent advice should their properties become affected by the burn offs.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 33

The Good Life

Your LOCAL guide to Art and Entertainment

What will you find at the swap meet?

SURPRISES galore await at the 35th annual Korumburra Swap Meet to be held at the Korumburra Showgrounds on Sunday, January 14, 2018.

Spare parts for cars, motorcycles, stationary engines, farm machinery, antiques and more will be available to buy, with stallholders and buyers travelling from far and wide for this iconic event.

You will find plants and toys, nuts and bolts, golf clubs, tools and bric-a-brac.

The meet is hosted by the South Gippsland branch of the Gippsland Historical Automobile Club as a fundraiser, and will start at 6am.

A vintage and classic car display will be a highlight of the event.

Club member Max Grigg is one of the club members with a fascination for the

past and has restored a Furphy water cart, even though he never thought of doing so.

When his son, who lives near Wagga Wagga, NSW, asked if he was interested in buying one, Mr Grigg said “not really”.

“But he sent me a photo and it was double the size I was expecting, with two axles, four incredible steel spoked wheels and a turntable,” Mr Grigg said.

He contacted the Furphy factory, still operating in Shepparton with the fifth generation now in control.

The more he learned about it, the more important it became that he restore it. Measuring over three metres in length, it took a long trailer to get it home.

“I immediately started to dismantle it so I could get the barrel back to Furphy to get it rebarrelled as the original had rusted out,” he said.

“Furphy still has a fellow

there who is familiar with the old method of heating the bands red hot, putting the new barrel on and replacing the bands. As they cool, they contract around the barrel and tighten the seal.”

While it was away, Mr Grigg started work on the cast and steel components, while also sourcing the right timber for the new chassis.

Many of the bolts were rusted but the nuts and bolt heads were quite good. Any bolts that were rusted in two were cut and a new section welded in.

“Inside the timber the joins can’t be seen and keeping the original look was important,” Mr Grigg said.

Two of the wheels were seized onto the axles and these took some time to remove.

Once this was done, he started on cleaning and restoring the rest of the steel work, removing rust and lichen, and eventually treating

Preserving the past: Max Grigg, a member of the South Gippsland branch of the Gippsland Historical Automobile Club, at work on his Furphy water cart.

it with preservative.

The timber for the chassis, not readily available in the same size these days, had to be cut down so all the original bolts would fit.

“Through the Furphy Museum at Shepparton, I found out that this cart was built between 1895 and 1910 and was called a No. 7 Barrel on Bearers. It’s sometimes referred to as ‘The Squatter’ and the cylindrical tank holds 350 gallons,” he said.

Furphy and Sons has been a familiar name around rural areas for well over a century, making cast iron products.

The Furphy water cart is perhaps the most familiar. These were first built in the 1880s and during World War One, appeared in the Middle East and Europe, carting water to the troops.

The carts were placed near the latrines, out of sight of the officers, and here the ordinary soldiers were able to express their views on the latest news.

Not surprisingly, the drivers of the carts carried this news and gossip from camp to camp. Because it was often unreliable, the term ‘furphy’ came to represent suspect information or rumour.

On each barrel of the carts was the trademark “Good better best, Never let it rest, Til your good is better, And your better best”.

Admission is $5 per person, with children under 16 free. Stallholders can grab a site for $15, which includes entry for one person.

Light refreshments will be available from 6am. To find out more, phone 5657 3371 or 5662 5029.

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

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Geeky festival: from left, Darah Bennett, Patricia Robinson and Megan Robinson went all out at the Geek Fest at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum last year.

Geeks, get excited GET your geek on at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum’s fourth annual Gippsland GeekFest on Sunday, January 21.

The event starts at 10am and runs till 5pm with a special Time Travel theme.

Coal Creek has managed to secure presenters of a high standard this year, to attend the festival at the Korumburra park.

Coinciding with the Time Travel and Doctor Who themes, Alexandra Tynan, a costume designer best known for her design of the Cybermen in the BBC Television series Doctor Who is coming along.

She now lectures in costume, fashion and textiles and costume design for television.

Alexandra will judge the Doctor Who costume competition and join a panel with members of the Doctor Who Association of Victoria at 4pm.

Jennifer M. Windt is a lecturer in philosophy at Monash University will attend.

Her research centres on philosophy of mind and philosophy of cognitive science, with a particular focus on mind wandering and spontaneous thought in wakefulness, dreaming, sleep, and self-consciousness.

Popular presenter, Craig Fison, is returning to GeekFest in 2018 to talk about his lat-

est projects.

A designer and maker, he has worked on some of the best known films over the last 25 years.

The list of his projects includes Star Wars, Moulin Rouge, Mission Impossible 2, Cleopatra and The Matrix.

Joe Italiano from Alternate Worlds is presenting on all things fan collectible.

He will hold an antique roadshow, assessing collectable items so bring along your most prized piece and have it valued.

Mathew Lee Matthew is the editor and publisher of the Campaigner magazine, a tabletop lifestyle publication put together in Australia but available to the world will also attend.

Have a magazine, book or other publication you want to make, but don’t know where to start?

Join Matthew as he talks about the basics of creating physical media.

Learn about how to get started and what options you have when bringing your creation to life.

Come dressed in your best Doctor Who costume for our Largest Gathering of Doctor Who characters in Victoria.

Tickets on sale now at Coal Creek, so call 5655 1811 to book.

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 35

Galleries to dazzle towns son presented Bass Coast Shire Council with the concept of an art project called Luminous Galleries recently.

Luminous Galleries is the follow on project from the successful Luminous Streets project, which took place in April.

Taking place in five Waterline towns – Pioneer sidered in council’s Open Space Policy.

Bay, Tenby Point, Grantville, Corinella and CoroResidents Thelma Born said all those years ago net Bay – Luminous Streets saw children and comsomeone had the foresight to leave this area as a remunity members create light based sculptures that serve despite pending subdivisions, and this should responded to the unique identity of each town. be preserved.

In 2018, The Edge of Us hopes to see someFellow resident Bob Andrews supported Ms thing a little more permanent.

Born, saying it should remain a community area.

What is proposed is the installation of perma“It’s great to have some quiet open space. We request council preserve this beautiful area of San nent light fixtures arranged in constellation clusters. The community would then be asked to creRemo,” he said.

Mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said councillors ate their luminous artworks over these fixtures to create a night time gallery. would listen.

These galleries would be ever changing to pro“We are listening to what the population wants.

This is something we all value; it’s a magnificent mote community involvement.

The project was made possible through the Respot,” she said.

Co-creative director of The Edge of Us – a team of local artists in Bass Coast – Jessica Wil-

Residents defend space

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Considered a valued asset to the people of San Remo, the reserve offers serenity, glorious bay views and walking tracks.

Although it was once thought to be farmland, residents discovered that it was an open community space in 1979, and council has since installed seats and tables for those enjoying the area.

However, it is a fine piece of land and a developers’ dream and, with talk of a recreation centre rumbling around town, residents decided to speak up and ensure the Anderson Street Reserve was con-

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SAN Remo residents called on Bass Coast Shire Council to preserve its Anderson Street Reserve.

gional Arts Victoria Small Town Transformations Program.

“We are heading into our second year, and we want to try to get people out of their homes and work together on this special project,” Ms Wilson said.

“There is a lack of connectedness between these towns, and this would be a permanent legacy. It would encourage people to drive through the towns and look at the new sculptures.”

The constellation clusters have been carefully mapped and inspired by Indigenous Australian tradition of navigating the stars using story and song.

With help from Indigenous artist Steve Parker, the constellations would be oriented towards the next town to encourage the journey.

The project is fully funded, but council assistance would be required to ensure the installations had access to power, are sensitive to the environment and are maintained.

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PAGE 36 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Farming Insight

Cattle hunt: Ian Baker from Yannathan and Matt Plozza from Pakenham were hoping to buy some cattle at the Leongatha VLE store sale last Thursday.

Hoping to buy: Andrew Siekman from Korumburra and Landmark agent Stan Alger were at the Leongatha VLE store sale last Thursday, hoping to find Mr Siekman new cattle.

• VLE Leongatha

Prices fall with yarding THERE were approximately 570 export and 200 young cattle penned representing a decrease of 1000 head from the last sale of 2017.

The usual buying group was present but not all operating fully in a sale which struggled to find any traction.

Quality was fair with the grown cattle consisting of mostly Friesian and crossbred manufacturing steers while the young run held a small proportion of trade suitable lots.

The limited selection of trade cattle sold firm while the secondary lots sold to little competition from processors with restockers picking up the slack.

The handful of grown steers and bullocks sold to solid demand while a better supply of dairy and crossbred manufacturing steers lifted 8c to 14c/kg.

Cows sold to softer demand with prices back 6c to 10c/kg for most. Heavy weight bulls were

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off 3c for the better shaped lots and 9c/kg for the dairy lots.

Vealers suited to butchers sold from 280c to 303c/kg. Yearling heifers to the trade made between 250c and 282c/kg.

Grown steers and bullocks sold between 265c and 271c/kg. Heavy weight dairy manufacturing steers made from 236c to 258c with the crossbred portion from 247c to 267c/kg.

Most light and medium weight cows sold from 170c to 216c/kg. Heavy weight cows made mostly between 206c and 235c/kg.

The better shaped heavy weight bulls sold between 235c and 275c with the dairy lots between 212c and 248c/kg..

The next sale draw - January 10: 1. Phelan & Henderson & Co, 2. SEJ, 3.

Rodwells, 4. Elders, 5. Alex Scott & Staff, 6. Landmark.

Sheep Sale Wednesday, January 10 at 12pm.

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BULLOCKS 7 G. Jones, Fish Creek 1 S. Bartlett, Dalyston 13 N.B. & L.J. Smith, Pound Creek 7 W.N. Haw, Leongatha 2 M.I. Sharp & Sons, Foster 4 T. Dibianco, Buffalo STEERS 5 M. White, Mirboo North 1 G. & T. Mildenhall, Kirrak 3 G. & R. Jarvie, Hazelwood 5 W.J. Rees, Kongwak 3 M. & D. Harms, Korumburra

625.0kg 680.0kg 675.4kg 722.1kg 570.0kg 625.0kg

270.6 270.0 269.2 266.6 265.0 265.0

$1691.25 $1836.00 $1818.14 $1925.23 $1510.50 $1656.25

415.0kg 385.0kg 468.3kg 404.0kg 368.3kg

300.0 297.6 292.0 287.2 285.6

$1245.00 $1145.76 $1367.53 $1160.29 $1051.96

2 P. & B. Boag, Fish Creek HEIFERS 7 M. White, Mirboo North 1 G. & T. Mildenhall, Kirrak 3 K. & M. Fisher, Tarwin South 1 B.S. Cantwell Lstk, Toora 3 M. & D. Harms, Korumburra 4 G. & R. Jarvie, Hazelwood COWS 1 B. & C. Beatson, Toora 1 K. & K. Underwood, Alberton 1 G. Jones, Fish Creek 1 K. & F. Whelan, Outtrim 1 S. Fairbrother, Boolarra 1 P., J. & V. Johnston, Mirboo Nth BULLS 1 G.E. Goding Kindergem P/L, Welshpool 1 T.R. & I.R. Harrison, Milford 1 Kaedem Dairies, Foster 1 D.G. & C.M. Roberts, Foster 1 W.R. & T.M. Standfield, Buffalo 1 P. Hall, Jeetho West

357.5kg 280.6 $1003.15 326.4kg 360.0kg 360.0kg 450.0kg 290.0kg 391.3kg

302.6 292.6 290.0 288.6 285.6 284.0

$987.77 $1053.36 $1044.00 $1298.70 $828.24 $1111.15

875.0kg 235.0 $2056.25 585.0kg 232.0 $1357.20 675.0kg 230.6 $1556.66 835.0kg 230.0 $1920.50 620.0kg 230.0 $1426.00 580.0kg 230.0 $1334.0

910.0kg 860.0kg 960.0kg 750.0kg 795.0kg 910.0kg

274.6 270.0 265.0 250.0 248.0 244.0

$2498.86 $2322.00 $2544.00 $1875.00 $1971.60 $2220.40

VLE store sale Thursday, January 4 Steers: Blackwood Grazing, Trafalgar, 20 x $1310; J. Rich & Partners, Walkerville, 10 x $1255; G.J. Robinson and L.A. Hasthorpe, Yallourn North, 9 x $1200; G.E. & S.D. Owen, Budgeree, 19 x $1190; H. & L. Edden, Lang Lang, 1 x $1160; G. Jones, Fish Creek, 1 x $1160.

Heifers: G.J. Robinson and L.a. Hasthorpe, Yallourn North, 6 x $1060; M. Thomas, Meeniyan, 10 x $1010; M. Babos and S. Cross, Leongatha, 2 x $1000; P.G. & D. Allitt, Cape Paterson, 10 x $890; N.B. & L.J. Smith, Pound Creek, 8 x $870; M. Downing, Foster, 10 x $860.

Cows: R. Carr and L. Bennett, Blackwarry, 3 x $1480.

Cow and calf: Treevalley Holdings Pty Ltd, Koonwarra, 1 x $2340.

Murray Goulburn name to remain MURRAY Goulburn announced last October that Canadian dairy company Saputo would acquire the cooperative for $1.3 billion.

The sale is expected to be completed in the first half of this year.

Saputo has confirmed it will maintain the Murray Goulburn name and its brands under an operating entity “most likely called Saputo Dairy

Australia”.

Under the sale, Saputo will take ownership of MG Trading stores, unless they are sold by MG prior to the completion of the sale, which it is entitled to do.

“Upon completion, should we inherit the MG Trading stores, we can confirm that they will remain open and we will manage them accordingly,” a Saputo spokesperson said.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 37

Farming Insight Livestock production assurance accreditation facts

By John Bowman, livestock extension officer, Agriculture Victoria IF YOU have a Property Identification Code (PIC) and have purchased National Vender Declarations (NVDs) in the past, then it is likely you have made a previous commitment to Livestock Production Assurance (LPA).

LPA and the LPA commitment are not new and have been in existence for a number of years and we have all been part of the program.

The recent changes to the LPA are ongoing improvements to protect Australia’s red meat industries, just like changes in the road rules make driving safer.

The LPA commitment, just like your driver’s licence, needs to be renewed after a set time, which for many is coming up soon.

Don’t worry, the Meat and Livestock Australia’s LPA staff will send you a comprehensive information pack either in the post or by email which explains the changes and how the process will work.

Following on from the initial information pack and once your recommitment date is due, you will receive a reminder and be required to undertake some online or over the phone training plus a short assessment (14 tick the square questions).

You will have two months to complete the seven training modules which should only take about one hour to complete.

The training modules are available on the MLA website or can be purchased in hard copy for a fee.

If you run a beef or sheep enterprise and have worked through the seven online learning modules you will have no problems undertaking the online LPA assessment.

At the completion of your on-line assessment you will be asked to recommit to the LPA agreement which is as simple as reading some statements and agreeing to abide by the MLA/LPA rules and standards.

You will then be requested to pay your three year membership of $66 including GST. Biosecurity is now included in the LPA program and all red meat producers (cattle, sheep and goats) are required to have a farm biosecurity plan in place and implement effective biosecurity practices in their on-farm management practices as a requirement of their LPA accreditation.

Biosecurity has been added to the LPA program to help protect the livestock industries in Australia from the social and economic impacts of pests and diseases that could potentially be very costly.

It is also necessary to underpin the promises made to customers about the integrity and safety of the products on the market.

So what is required for a biosecurity plan? A written document which outlines how to reduce the risk of pests and disease coming onto your farm, reduces the risk of pest and disease spreading within your farm and reduces the risk of pests or disease leaving or spreading from your farm.

The plan is to be supported by record keeping, regular monitoring, training and implementation of the practical procedures on the farm. A simple template is available online at www.mla.com.au/lpa The second element being introduced to the LPA program from October 1 is animal welfare.

Every LPA accredited producer must now ensure animals are being managed in accordance with the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for cattle, sheep and/or goats.

In order to meet LPA animal welfare requirements, producers need to do the following; keep a current copy of the Standards and Guidelines as a reference for all people involved with animal husbandry on the farm; and be trained in the Standards and Guidelines relevant to their enterprise. This can be done by using the online LPA learning tool or an approved equivalent. Staff involved with animal handling also need to be trained as well.

This means producers need to be familiar with these Standards and Guidelines.

Consumers of red meat products expect producers to be committed to high standards of animal welfare. Compliance with the new LPA requirements provides assurance of the commitment that producers have towards the welfare of their animals.

For information about LPA, the LPA helpline number is 1800 683 111, the email address is lpa@ mla.com.au and the website is www.mla.com.au/lpa

Great win: Outtrim dairy farmers Lyn and Les Hornby were thrilled when their three year old cow was announced as the overall winner of the eighth Leading Edge Genetics on farm competition recently.

Cow wows judges

By Sarah Vella OVERWHELMED, shocked and excited is how Outtrim dairy farmers Lyn and Les Hornby felt when one of their cows was awarded overall champion in the eighth Leading Edge Genetics on farm competition recently.

The three year old cow, sired by Dorcy, was one of 384 entries from 58 Gippsland farmers, and also won the three year old category.

Mr Hornby said she was a fine cow, with a good udder, confirmation and back end.

“She is a placid cow as well. She stood really well for the judge,” he said.

It was the first win in the challenge for the Hornbys and their herd manager Jess Stace.

Judge Matt Templeton spent several days visiting farms across Gippsland and said the Hornbys’ cow was one he just couldn’t fault on the day.

“For a young cow to carry an udder like that... and overall quality was impressive,” he said.

The Hornbys have been in the dairy industry for 20 years and moved on to their Outtrim farm around six years ago.

They milk around 270 Friesians off 350 acres

and supply Murray Goulburn.

Mr Hornby said over the past few years, they had been working on improving the herd overall, with a particular emphasis on teat length, as well as feet and legs.

“We are always trying to breed a better cow, full stop,” he said.

“We have improved our herd a lot, particularly since we started using AI. We don’t use any herd bulls and we mop up with Herefords.”

When selecting genetics, Mrs Hornby said they look for low cell counts and are particularly keen on animals with good temperaments.

“It is no good if you can’t get the cups on them,” she said.

Assisting with their herd improvement over the years has been Brad Aitken from Leading Edge Genetics.

“He has helped us pick the bulls that fit our cows the best,” Mr Hornby said.

After a wet October, the Hornbys cut silage late this year, but Mr Hornby said the yield was still good.

“Jess had to spray the entire farm for army worms. Where we had cut silage, it wasn’t greening up and all the bare spots were covered in caterpillars,” he said.

“They were eating the grass as fast as it could grow. I had never seen them that bad.”

Hay fire warning AS farmers and contractors are busy • have your local CFA fire brigade in attenwith hay and silage harvesting in South dance if you have to pull a hot haystack apart.

For more information on hay and silage harGippsland, 2000 bales of hay was lost vesting, and farm equipment fire prevention, visit near Ouyen recently. http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/farms/

Safety focus: grooves in dairy yards improve traction for milking herds. Photo: Facebook.

Dairy cows get groovy A DAIRY yard surface must provide confident footing for cows under all conditions.

CowTime’s Darold Klindworth said simple grooving in the cement can make a world of difference to cow flow into the dairy and safety for cows and workers alike.

“Some dairy yards become very slippery when wet or worn. Injury is inevitable when cows (and even workers) slip. A slippery yard surface affects cow flow into the dairy because cows become fearful and hesitate. It’s just not worth the risk because it’s so simple to fix,” he said.

Concrete yards can have a number of successful treatments applied to reduce their slipperi-

ness. Cutting grooves into the yard surface is a common solution.

A diamond pattern is easy to construct while providing good traction. For best results: • diamonds should be at least 12mm wide and 12mm deep; and • the points of the diamond should point up and down the slope to help with yard washing.

When doing a new concrete surface, use an experienced contractor with a good track record in cow yards. Many yards have been spoiled by inexperienced installers.

Make sure the surface is not too rough as this causes lameness. To test, walk on the yard in bare feet. If it is uncomfortable for you, it’s too rough for your cows.

District 9 operations officer Ricky Read said the 2000 square bale fire, which burned through the week, served as a reminder to farmers in South Gippsland.

“Spontaneous ignition is the leading cause of haystack fire in Victoria and just one damp bale is enough to ignite a haystack,” he said.

“Hay heats up due to biological events and chemical reactions, and is usually caused by excess exterior moisture or insufficiently cured plant material.

“Haystack fires can spread quickly into the surrounding area and often result in thousands of dollars in damages,” Mr Read said.

To keep your assets safe, follow these top tips: • ensure hay is fully cured before baling; • bale and store each bale type at the correct moisture level; • know the history of hay that you purchase, particularly its moisture content, and if it comes from a batch that has ignited on other properties; • protect hay from rain, leaking roofs and spouts, and runoff; • store hay in a number of different locations around your farm, away from keys assets, and limit the size of stacks so you don’t lose the lot; • don’t store vehicles, machinery and equipment in your hayshed; • be careful when operating vehicles, machinery and equipment near your haystacks; • create and maintain fuel breaks around your haystacks; regularly monitor stored hay for signs of heating. It • only takes one heating hay bale to ignite a whole haystack; and

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

As one of Australia's leading home builder, G.J Gardner Homes, Bass Coast are looking to recruit a driven sales professional capable of enhancing our vision 'to be recommended to everyone by everyone’.

• Develop your sales skillset with the unique 'G.J. Way of Selling' • Enhance your lifestyle with a strong income • Make a difference in your community by turning customer dreams into reality G.J. Gardner Homes Bass Coast have an office in Cowes and Wonthaggi, a rotating roster is in place to cover both. The successful candidate will meet with prospective clients and utilise the G.J Gardner Homes sales processes to help the client choose a package designed to suit their budget and lifestyle.

You must be: • Well groomed • Confident • Motivated • Self starter (remunerated on results) • Meticulous • Strong desire to win and succeed If you believe you have the desire and the commitment to become a high performing sales star with G.J. Gardner Homes, Bass Coast then don't hesitate to forward your application now and start with your exciting new career with one of Australia's leading home builder.

Apply now or send a copy of your resumé and application to gill.hardman@gjgardner.com.au by the 28th January 2018.

VACANCY @ GSHS Project Officer – Nurse Practitioner Model of Care 48 hours per fortnight. Limited Tenure 5th February 2018 to 30th May 2018 (ND0101) Contact: Margaret Radmore, Acting Executive Director of Nursing. Ph: 5667 5514 or email margaret.radmore@gshs.com.au Full details, including the position description is available at www.gshs.com.au.

Email applications, quoting the job reference number, to jobs@gshs.com.au Closing Date: Sunday, 21st January 2018

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

Sub-Acute Ward – Registered Nurse Grade 2 Fixed-Term Full-Time 07/05/18 to 30/06/18

Learning & Development – Clinical Development Nurse Fixed-Term, Part-Time 16 hours per fortnight - Maternity Leave Replacement 22/01/18 to 21/01/19

Occupational Therapy Occupational Therapist Grade 2 Full-Time

Acute Care – Manager Patient Access & Flow Full-Time Position commencing mid to late March 2018

Registered Nurses required for Various Departments Various positions available

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

For full position details including position descriptions and how to apply please visit the employment section on our website: www.basscoasthealth.org.au

Our Registered Nurses work to ensure the direct care needs of all residents are met through overseeing and evaluating care plans, and the individualised nursing needs of the residents.

Key selection criteria: Essential • Demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Must be a team player with the ability to multi-task • The ability to demonstrate a professional and friendly manner at all times • Demonstrated high level of analytical, written and verbal skills • Demonstrated initiative and the ability to work without supervision • Demonstrated excellent time management skills Desirable • Mature outlook with the ability to relate and converse with older people Fixed term contract Monday 23.00-07.15 nigh duty every 4th week (dates available on request) Casual and Relief position at PCAC and Carinya Lodge Through our partnership with Carinya Lodge, there are casual positions available to relieve long service, annual leave and vacant shifts in Foster and Korumburra.

Applications close 5pm Friday 19 January 2018 For a position description or other enquiries: Carina Ross, Care Manager T: 03 5682 0800 E: carina.ross@promcountryagedcare.com.au Please send your resumé and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria to: carina.ross@promcountryagedcare.om.au

Apprenticeships spike interest at Knights KNIGHTS of Leongatha employs one first year apprentice mechanic every year and a half, with the next apprenticeship opportunity being the start of 2018.

All apprentices employed are local and every student who applies receives a trial period.

“We always have at least one apprentice here and at the moment we have two,” Knights of Leongatha owner Bradley Westaway said.

“Every year we contact all of the schools and ask them if they have any students who may be interested in an appren-

ticeship.”

An apprenticeship lasts four years at Knights and results in a full qualification as a mechanic.

The first year involves the student studying at secondary school four days a week and working one day a week at Knights, along with completing a general mechanics course.

In the second year, the student chooses what section they want to specialise in, such as cars or motorcycles.

“When we want to hire an apprentice, we look for someone who has the ability to look out for others, someone who can take direction and is easy

going, and someone who has the true desire to want to be in that job,” Mr Westaway said.

Mr Westaway said it was easier to find students wanting to become an apprentice these days.

“In school, the emphasis isn’t so much on university anymore,” he said.

“University isn’t for everyone and working at Knights is a good job, and offers good money and a good career which can branch off to lots of things.

“Dozens of past apprentices own their own businesses here in Leongatha now; it’s a good stepping stone to many different opportunities.”

CASUAL MOTEL HOUSEKEEPERS

Registered Nurse Fixed term contract / Casual relief work

On site: Knights of Leongatha first year apprentice Jacob Anthony has learnt lots about mechanical engineering this year with owner Bradley Westaway.

Have an impact.

Family Day Care Educators Variable hours Self Employed Contractor

Case Manager - Home Based Care Youth Services Full time – fixed term As an integral part of a specialised Home Based Care Team, you will be responsible for providing intensive case management and high quality service delivery for children and young people placed in Out of Home Care in the Gippsland Region.

For further information please visit www.salvationarmy.org.au/en/About-Us/ Work-With-Us/

Housekeeper/Cleaner required for regular weekday morning motel housekeeping work.

Shift availability will vary depending on motel occupancy but can be expected to range from 6 to 15 hours per week (with more hours required occasionally). Shift duration can vary from 2 to 5 hours, with shifts arranged the night prior

by SMS. Motel, caravan park or holiday home cleaning experience preferred. No “cash in hand” payments.

Must be reliable, injury-free and energetic to cope with the physical demands of the job.

Applicants should be prepared to undergo a Police Check and have verifiable references.

Please phone Leongatha Motel on 5662 2375

AOD Family Reunification Team Leader

SITUATIONS VACANT

Full-time - Maximum term position Based at either Sale, Bairnsdale or Leongatha

Management Accountant

AOD Family Reunification Clinician

Fixed Term 18 months Part Time 24 Hours per Week

Full-time - Maximum term position Based at either Sale, Bairnsdale or Leongatha 2 positions available We’re looking for motivated people who have a genuine interest in supporting children, youth and their families as well as building better communities.

Learn more human.resources@ucgipps.org or visit ucgipps.org.au Employment is subject to satisfactory criminal history and Victorian Working with Children Checks prior to commencement. Uniting is proud to be an inclusive employer and is committed to keeping children safe.

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.

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.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 39

BOOKKEEPER PART-TIME or CASUAL

Leongatha Motel is seeking an experienced bookkeeper to work up to 20 hours per week.

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

The ideal applicant will have prior experience with Quickbooks Online and be able to work with a minimum of direction. Ability to assist with Motel Reception duties an advantage.

Resumés detailing relevant experience should be sent to contact@leongathamotel.com.au

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

Driver: Bulk Fuel Tanker HC/MC Evans Petroleum Gippsland is a growing, family owned and operated fuel distributor for BP Australia. Employing over 100 staff, we have serviced both retail and wholesale customers in the South Gippsland area for the past 40 years.

Our Leongatha Depot requires a Night Shift Tanker Driver to work within our team.

Successful applicants should have: • HC/MC Truck Licence • Dangerous Goods Licence • Truck Driving experience, with the ability to drive a road ranger gearbox • An Excellent Driving Record (VicRoads Driver History Report required) • A knowledge of the Gippsland area • A willingness to work in an environment where compliance with legislation, policy and procedures is the highest priority This roll involves: • Night Shift deliveries • Delivering Bulk Fuel to Retail and Commercial • Keeping Truck and Equipment clean and tidy

public notice

public notice

Expression of Interest Board Member - Rural Financial Counselling Victoria - Gippsland Board

Full Time/Part time/Casual Positions Capeview Mitre 10 - Wonthaggi

ASSISTANT LIQUOR MANAGER

Capeview Mitre 10 - Wonthaggi A full-time position exists as an Admin/Trade Team Member in our Wonthaggi store. The position requires a very high customer service focus both internally and externally and the successful applicant should be able to demonstrate the following attributes: • Customer focused • Proven administration skills • Excellent computer literacy • Excellent numeracy skills • Excellent communication skills • Highly organised and efficient • Able to work with little supervision • Adaptable and Flexible • An approachable and friendly nature • Be team orientated Knowledge of Timber and Timber related products, would be a distinct advantage.

If you believe you have the qualities we are looking for, you are invited to apply in writing

by Friday 19th January 2018 to: The Store Manager Capeview Mitre10 Wonthaggi Cape Paterson Road, Wonthaggi, Vic 3995 or by email: wonthaggi.manager@cv-m10.com.au

Applications close on 19/01/2018 and can be sent to sales@evanspetroleum.com.au or by mail to PO Box 588, Leongatha, VIC, 3953

RETAIL TEAM MEMBERS

Would you like to join a dynamic team and have the opportunity to grow with the company and move your career to a higher level? Michaels SUPA IGA Stores are looking to expand and require managers to fill existing positions with a capacity to move into more senior roles as they become available.

Location: Michaels SUPA IGA Stores, South Gippsland Reporting to: Liquor Manager, Store Manager, Assistant Manager Availability: Alternating Rosters (Some public holidays) Attractive Salary Package on Offer The successful applicant will have a proven track record of: • Liquor experience and wine knowledge • Cashiering, stocking and retail sales work • Delivering excellent quality and service standards • Working well in a team environment • Achieving sales and wage control targets • Assisting the liquor manager in day to day operations • Maintaining a work schedule and rostering that reflects the customers’ needs and at the same time meeting wage budgets • Maintaining store pricing and ticketing • Ability to work evenings and weekends • Creating attractive displays and special promotions • Fork Lift Licence preferred but not essential Applications can be sent to the below details: Chris O’Leary mgrlg@michaelsiga.com.au 03 5662 6644

Admin/Trade Team Member

We have positions as Retail Team Members in our Capeview M10 Wonthaggi store. These positions require an extremely high customer service focus and a very high aptitude for General Hardware/DIY products. The positions may include weekend work and the successful applicants should be able to demonstrate the following attributes: • • • • • • • •

Outstanding customer interface skills A “can do” attitude Be willing to learn Strong merchandising skills Excellent communication skills Be team orientated Highly organised and efficient Understanding of a POS system essential

Previous experience working in a DIY/Hardware Store environment will be viewed as a distinct advantage.

If you believe you have the qualities we are looking for, you are invited to apply in writing

by Friday 19th January 2018 to: The Store Manager Capeview Mitre10 Wonthaggi Cape Paterson Road, Wonthaggi, Vic 3995 or by email: wonthaggi.manager@cv-m10.com.au

The Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria – Gippsland (RFCSV-G) is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture and Water Resources and the Victorian State Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources. Our service provides support to farming communities and small rural businesses at risk of financial hardship through free, confidential and independent assistance, referrals and access to government programs, and support services.

Our Board is seeking expressions of interest for a new member to commence in Feb/Mar 2018.

Board members are responsible for ensuring RFCSV-G’s governance and oversight of the services’ legal and financial accountability and statutory requirements, as well as compliance with funding deed requirements.

Applications will be shortlisted based on knowledge and expertise in one or more of specific areas and [preferably] have a farming or agricultural background: • Human Resource / People & Culture Management; • Legal qualifications or acumen; • Risk Management; Other desirable skills and experience as per board position responsibilities will also be considered. Board position description available via website www.ruralfinancialcounselling.org.au in the section - Our Governance.

RFCSV-G is committed to ensuring our board represents the diversity of our communities, and encourages all suitably qualified applicants to submit an expression of interest.

All expressions of interest should be submitted to office@rfcsvg.au to the attention of Aubrey Pellett (Chair) detailing skills experience and background suitable for the RFCSV-G Board.

For further information regarding the recruitment process please contact Kylie Holmes (Executive Officer) on 5662 2566 or kyileh@rfcsvg.com.au.

Expressions of interest close midnight Wednesday 17 January 2018

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

public notice MARINE LICENCE COURSE Vic. Boat Licence with Jetski endorsement

for rent

for sale

for sale

livestock

deaths

deaths

funerals

BAY OF FIRES beach house, Binalong Bay, Tasmania, sleeps 8, minimum 3 nights.

Available February onwards. Ph: 0408938645.

BILLIARD TABLE, complete, as new, 210cm x 120cm, $179.

Ph: 0419-370264 or 5662-0783.

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200 x 50x 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.

BULLS for hire or for sale. Friesian, Angus, Hereford, Limo or Jersey. All sound young bulls. Hire or sale. Phone 0447-331762.

BROWN - Marcelle.

Passed away peacefully at home on December 31, 2017.

Loved wife of Doug (dec).

Loved and loving mum and mother-in-law of Tony and Belinda, Rod and Cris.

Adored Granny of Alex, Liana, Mish; Emma and Peter.

Sadly missed.

BROWN (Stubbs) Marcelle Jessie.

Cherished sister and sister-in-law of Stan and Barbara Stubbs.

Wonderful auntie of Peter (dec), Janet and Ken, Ann and Josephine and Mark, Justin and Signe.

Caring and loved great aunt of Christopher and Asha, Dougie and Jess, Markus, Tylor and Travis.

Great great aunt of Chase.

Will always remember our happy times together.

WILSON - Kate.

Now at peace Katie, forever in our memories.

Paul (dec), Mary, Matt, Jess, Sarah, and their families. XO WILSON - Kate.

Wishing you peace and comfort as you Fly High with the Angels.

Love always.

Robyn, Paul and families.

RANDS - A memorial service to celebrate the life of Martin Lester (Marty) Rands will be held at our Leongatha Chapel, corner of South Gippsland Highway and Bellingham Street, on Thursday, January 11, 2018 commencing at 1pm.

Private burial.

INVERLOCH Wednesday, January 17 6pm - 10pm BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Phone Bob: 0417 524 005 Approved TSV course www.abcboating.com ABN 43080057923

public notice

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

public notice

FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408980-711, A/H 56625175.

SILAGE $71.50 (inc GST) - 5x4 round; standing oats and vetch, 20 acres, $33 (inc GST) - 5x4 round.

Mirboo North. Ph: 0429684262.

public notice

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.

MOWERS

wanted to buy 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.

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

MOTORCYCLES & POWER EQUIPMENT

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

Ph: 5662 2028

300 Fish Creek Quarry Road Fish Creek Council at its ordinary meeting held 20 December 2017 pursuant to sections 190 and 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 proposes to lease the Fish Creek Quarry being part of CP 165852 (shown in the plan below) with an approximate area of 24.5 Ha to Goldsmith Quarries Pty Ltd for a term of 10 years with options of two further terms of five years each for rental/royalties amount to be determined by a specialist quarry valuer.

A person may make a submission to this proposal. Submissions are to be received no later than 5.00pm Tuesday 6 February 2018 and addressed to the CEO, South Gippsland Shire Council, 9 Smith Street, Leongatha Vic 3953 or Private Bag 4, Leongatha Vic 3953.

Any person making a submission is entitled to be heard in support of the submission. If a person or a representative wishes to be heard in support of the submission they must state this in their submission.

Copies of submissions (including submitters’ personal information such as their name and address) will be published and made available at the Council or special committee meeting at which the proposal will be considered.

garage sales

HUGE GARAGE SALE SATURDAY JANUARY 13 25 Josephine Crescent MIRBOO NORTH Lots of bargains

www.marriottsmpe.com.au

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

public notice

Proposed Lease – Fish Creek Quarry

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

8am to 12.30pm

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.

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

OLD PORT POULTRY FARM Delivering 18 wk old Isa Brown laying hens to your area on Sunday, January 21, $21 each. Ph: 0438832535.

marriage celebrant

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

Jo Fennell 0437 465 399

johanne4@bigpond.com

public notice

FORM B SOUTH GIPPSLAND SHIRE COUNCIL NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT Pursuant to Section 52(1) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 The land affected by the application is located at: 141-143 Jupiter Boulevard, Venus Bay VIC 3956 being L22 LP52658 Parish of Tarwin, L23 LP52658 Parish of Tarwin.

The application is for a permit to: Use and develop land for Leisure and Recreation (skate park) with assoc. fencing and native veg removal.

The applicant for the permit is: South Gippsland Shire Council.

The Application Reference Number is: 2017/285.

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority - South Gippsland Shire Council, Private Bag 4, 9 Smith Street, Leongatha 3953, Telephone: 5662 9200. This can be done during office hours (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm) and is free of charge.

Applications are also available to be viewed on Council's Website at www.southgippsland. vic.gov.au Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority. An objection must: • be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing • include the reasons for the objection and • state how the objector would be affected.

If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you its decision.

Privacy Notification: The responsible authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 12 January 2018 or 14 days from the date of this notice, whichever is the later.

Submissions can be received after this date up until a decision is made.

Dated: 9.1.2018

BROWN (nee Stubbs) Marcelle.

31.12.2017 Much loved sister and sister-in-law of Merv and Dot Stubbs.

Dearly loved aunt of Dianne and Colin, Sandra and Ken, Brett and Judi.

Auntie and great auntie to all her nieces and nephews, and their families.

You filled our lives with love, happiness and memories, always treasured and remembered.

BROWN (Stubbs) Marcelle.

Our fondest memories of a special lady.

Condolences to Tony and Rod, Roslyn, Raelene and Jim. HULLS - Norma Jean.

Passed away on Monday, January 8, 2018.

Loved wife of Frederick (Jack) Hulls (dec).

Mother of Trevor and Christine, Jennifer, Geoffrey and AnnMaree, and families.

Please see Herald Sun for funeral notice.

WILSON - Kate (Bub).

I hide my tears when I say your name, But the pain in my heart is still the same.

Although I smile and seem care free, There is no one who misses you more than me.

Love you forever.

Daniel. xxx WILSON - Kate.

Very much loved partner of Daniel.

Spread your wings and fly.

You will be sadly missed by all.

Love Annette and Steven. xx WILSON - Kate Alyce.

Treasured granddaughter of Eric and Anne.

Loved and loving niece of Deb, Leonie, Ken, and family.

Soar above the clouds sweet angel.

Now your struggle is over.

Forever in our hearts.

XXX

funerals BROWN - Family and friends are invited to an informal gathering to celebrate the life of Marcelle Brown to be held at the Inverloch RSL, Bolding Place, Inverloch on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 from 12 noon onwards.

A private family service will be held prior to this gathering.

Wonthaggi 5672 1074 A.F.D.A.

WILSON - The funeral service for Kate Alyce Wilson will be held at the Dakers Centre, corner of Smith and Watt Streets, Leongatha on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 commencing at 1.30pm.

Private cremation.

In memory of Kate, donations to Beyond Blue would be appreciated. Envelopes will be available at the service.

Scott and Sharon Anderson CARING & PERSONAL 24 HOUR SERVICE 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

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 41

Spotlight on motorcycle safety THE Transport Accident Commission is reminding drivers and motorcycle riders to look out for each other on the roads, with rider numbers set to increase sharply over summer.

Despite less motorcyclists dying on Victoria’s roads in 2017 compared to 2016, TAC road safety lead director Samantha Cockfield said motorcycle riders continued to be overrepresented in road fatalities.

“We are now in the time of year when the number of riders on Victorian roads increases sharply and with that, the risk of crashes involving motorcycle riders is higher,” she said.

The TAC re-launched its motorcycle safety campaign, Driver think rider – Rider think driver, encouraging riders and drivers to share responsibility for keeping each other safe.

“When the unexpected happens, riders wearing the correct protective gear have a better chance of avoiding serious injuries, and motorcycles with safety technologies like ABS braking have a better chance of avoiding a crash altogether,” Ms Cockfield said.

“It is critical that drivers are always on the lookout for motorcycles and riders can help by Take care: the Transport Accident Commission is raising awareness of the risks faced ensuring they are visible to drivers through cor- by motorcyclists on roads. Motorcyclists took part in the Barry Sheene Tribute Ride, rect road positioning.” which passed through Leongatha en route to the motorcycle grand prix at Phillip Island

in October.

Marine precinct cops scrutiny

By Sarah Vella A PUBLIC meeting will be held this Thursday, January 11 for people who want to have their say about the proposed Port Welshpool marine precinct project.

The project, developed by South Gippsland Shire Council, has been badly received by some members of the community, including Port Welshpool resident Rosslyn McPherson.

“The council banged the proposal on us just before Christmas,” she said.

Ms McPherson said the location of the proposed marina was poorly chosen, as it blocked views of the newly restored Long Jetty and takes over the beach.

“It is also proposed to build a new boat ramp there, which is a scandal because there is so much room at the existing ramp,” she said.

“A lot of locals are totally opposed to it and we have a lot of ammunition to throw at them (council).”

Ms McPherson said she organised the meeting, which will also be attended by South Gippsland mayor Cr Lorraine Brunt and councillors Ray Argento and Jeremy Rich.

Council’s planning manager Paul Stampton will also attend the meeting.

“Everyone is angry and we have all sent in submissions. To be confronted with looking out over a car park and losing our beach is just terrible,” she said.

“It would also be a shame to have the Long Jetty restored and hide it with all of this.”

The meeting will be held this Thursday, January 11 at the old ferry terminal in Port Welshpool from 7pm..

Car ferry business case due for release BASS Coast Shire Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and the State Government are preparing a business case to determine the cost, requirements and viability of a vehicle and passenger service between Stony Point, French Island and Cowes.

The draft business case recommends the preferred site for the Cowes terminal and pier be developed near the current site of the Cowes Yacht Club, with 10 to 14 sailings per day.

Bass Coast mayor Cr Pamela Rothfield said the Cowes West beach site was not the preferred location.

“From recent discussions with the Phillip Island community, I think Phillip Island residents will be pleased to see that the area near the yacht club is the preferred location for a terminal,” she said.

“It will be great for the community to have a look through the business case once it has been released, as it shows how each possible site was evaluated.

“The project aims to create an iconic route

that would connect Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island with the Great Ocean Road, bringing together three of Victoria’s most significant tourism regions.”

The 333km touring route would provide a unique experience for tourists in a single circuit and without the need to pass through a major city.

This project will: · support the development of a touring route which will increase overnight stays and tourism spend in the Western Port side of the Mornington Peninsula and on Phillip Island;

· develop a broader Victorian touring route that will enable tourists to travel from the Great Ocean Road to Phillip Island and onto the Gippsland region, without the need to pass through Melbourne; and · provide an alternative route for Phillip Island residents to reach the mainland for employment, services and recreational opportunities.

Bass Coast Shire Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and the State Government are reviewing the first draft of the business case, which will be released in February 2018 for more extensive public consultation.

Stay away from seals Help prevent arson BEACHGOERS can expect to see more young seals as an influx of juvenile seals comes ashore.

Summer is the time when juvenile seals arrive at local beaches, after being separated from their mothers who have new pups to raise.

Seals have been seen near the boat ramp at Inverloch in recent months.

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) is reminding beachgoers that these seals need their space to rest and recover.

DELWP Gippsland’s program

manager compliance operations, Craig Oldis said, “Some of these seals will be exhausted, but it’s important to remember that they are learning how to survive without their mothers.

“While we understand that seeing a seal in poor condition may be upsetting, approaching the seal or trying to move it will cause further stress for the animal.

“As seals are wild animals and protected wildlife, we have to give them the space they need.”

Mr Oldis urged people to keep their dogs away from seals, as dogs and seals were a dangerous mix.

The following conditions and minimum approach distances ap-

ply: • do not approach within 30 metres of a seal on land; • dogs are not permitted within 50 metres of a seal on land; • at boat ramps or piers, stay at least five metres away from a seal; and • never attempt to feed seals.

Seals can quickly become dependent on humans, and in • some situations can become a nuisance or even dangerous.

It’s an offence to feed seals and/or to breach the minimum approach distances, with both offences carrying a maximum penalty of a fine up to $3171.

If you see injured or distressed marine wildlife please call the

AGL Marine Response Unit on 1300 AGL MRU (1300 245 678) or DELWP on 136 186.

Give them space: as cute as seal pups may be, beachgoers are being urged to watch them from a distance.

GIPPSLAND Arson Prevention Program (GAPP) members are urging community and those travelling through bushfire prone areas to report any suspicious behaviour to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or contact 000 if threat is immediate.

GAPP is a collaboration of government agencies and key industries from across the Gippsland region, formed after the devastating 2009 Gippsland bushfires.

The program implements fire prevention patrols across both

public and private land, as well as education programs through a range of media channels.

Arsonists often do not travel far from home. If an arsonist is a local then it stands to reason that some members of the community may have suspicions about the arsonist.

If you see any behaviour that could lead to a fire please write down as much information as you can about the individual, the car they drive, personal attributes and anything else that may help the authorities and report it, we need your help to keep our communities safe. Report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or contact 000 for immediate threats.

| SPORT

thestar.com.au

Heat postpones cricket THE heat policy came into play on Saturday for the Firsts XI who were to play Trafalgar on the Walter Tuck Turf as the temperature climbed to over 40.

All games are now one day fixtures in all grades this Saturday, January 13.

It was a good day for most of the cricketers at Mirboo North before the Christmas break.

The Firsts slugged it out at Morwell but did not have the fire power to dismiss a talented batting order on Morwell.

The Seconds came from behind to grab an unlikely win at Peter Siddle oval.

The Thirds at Latrobe also had a comprehensive win with all the players in good form with bat and ball.

First Grade:

Morwell’s top order was in good form as it passed Mirboo North’s total of 187 with plenty of overs in hand and went on to compile 242.

Brincat 55 and Webber 47 led the way.

It was very pleasing to see young Rohan Hughes grab four for 37 of his 14 overs.

In another promising display, Dale Banks took 2 for 42, and wickets also went to Will Cheatley and Rob Phoenix who bowled tightly but Morwell’s batting was just better on the day.

Second Grade: On a two paced wicket at Latrobe, Mirboo North batted first and made nine for 119 which was a struggle on the wicket that offered assistance to the bowlers.

Newcomer Rick Williams batted really well and patiently with 31 and impressed as well as

Luke Powell with 27 but the team batted out the over’s to give the side a chance of defending the total.

Latrobe came out with positive batting and at one staged had rattled up one for 66 with Smith getting 36 but Powell with his left arm chins and offies removed the dangerous to top order.

Latrobe crumbled under the onslaught of young spinners in Connor Williams two for 23 but with Powell three for 19 in valuable effort with bat and ball, and then even younger Ethan Woodhall three for five was very good and also a not so youthful Todd Alexander two for nine made the Latrobe bats look very ordinary.

They raced through the middle and late order to grab sixfor 10 and restrict them to 102.

It was a mighty effort from the young bowlers to win.

Third Grade: This was a great effort from the Mirboo North Thirds with another good win.

Latrobe batted first and could only manage 98 with pace man Brad Dyke four for 25 the main destroyer.

But it was also the father and son combination in Chris and Brendan Gilmore who took three for 23 and 2 for12 to restrict Latrobe, Good fielding and catching also prevailed Mirboo North’s top order made short work of the chase as Rob Hussey 23 and Chris Anders 51 got the side away to a good start but it was Harley Towns who hit the ball very hard 61 Chris Gilmore 21 and Wes Townley 15.

The runs flowed easily as Mirboo North raced to two for 191 to boost percentage in a good all round win.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

SPORT |

th

thestar.com.au

Hundreds take on fun run

SUND SUNDAY, SU UND NDAY AY,, January AY J nu Ja nuar aryy 7, ar 7, saw saw 407 407 participants par arti tici cipa ipant ntss in nt in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run.

There was a nice SSW 12 knot wind to assist the serious runners.

Of these numbers, the youngest runners were aged six and the oldest runner was 77 years old with lots of families getting involved.

The event was proudly sponsored by the Toora Foster and Welshpool Community Bank/Bendigo bank, with Sharon DeMaria, branch manager, speaking on their behalf.

The awards were presented by Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath, who generously supports local communities.

Thanks go to the Waratah Beach Surf Life Saving Club for providing first aid, use of the facilities and the barbecue and drinks at the end of the race.

Thanks to all the local sponsors who kindly supported the annual event.

Off and running: hundreds took to the beach to participate in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run on Sunday.

Men’s 50 and over: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath with winner Peter Cowell and third placed Chris Harvey.

Impressive: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath congratulated Calvin Amos for winning the 20 and over men’s age group in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Run.

Outstanding: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath was thrilled to congratulate first placed Georgie Huntington, who competed in the 20 and over women’s age group in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Run.

Top duo: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath was pictured with the winners of the women’s 30 and over age group. Penni Neville came in third and Tammy Quinn was first overall.

Well done: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath congratulated Anneli Calder for coming second in the 60 and over women’s age group in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Run on Sunday.

Great effort: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath caught up with Georgie Hausegger, who came second in the U15 girls’ age group in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run.

TIDES Here is an easy guide to tides in your area.

To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below.

Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Point Lonsdale

JANUARY Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

10 WED

11 THUR

12 FRI

13 SAT

14 SUN

15 MON

0006 0655 1248 1938

0.41 1.56 0.33 1.38

0050 0737 1333 2039

0.52 1.48 0.35 1.34

0134 0820 1420 2138

0.62 1.39 0.37 1.32

0224 0907 1513 2237

0.72 1.32 0.40 1.31

0322 0959 1611 2336

0.80 1.26 0.41 1.34

0432 1055 1714

0.84 1.22 0.41

Men’s 40 and over: first placed Simon Tu and second placed Liam Brown were pictured with Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath.

U15 boys: winner Chance Doultree, second placed Xavier Donazzan and third placed Harrison Garlick were pictured with Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath after the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Run.

N

p

16 TUE

0033 0545 1152 1813

1.38 0.83 1.22 0.38

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

U12 girls: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath with second placed Macy Peterson, winner Lucy Traill and third placed Luella Garlick.

U12 boys: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath with second placed Xavier Collins, winner Willem Duursma and third placed Joshua Hamilton.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 43

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U19 girls: third placed Kali Dunlea, second placed Maddie Plum and winner Maria Wright DePedro were congratulated by Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath after the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run.

Achievement: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath caught up with Michael Oke, who was the winner of the men’s 30 and over age group in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run.

Women’s 50 and over: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath congratulated third placed Cathy McDonald, second placed Gai Liley and winner Michelle Jellef.

Top two: Warwick Davis and David Iser competed in the 60 and over men’s age group in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Run on Sunday.

Women’s 40 and over: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath with second placed Jane Harrison, first placed Carrie Wallis and third placed Sonia Austin.

Overall winners: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath congratulated Tammy Quinn and Riley Evans on their success in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run.

Women’s 70 and over: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath congratulated winner Anne Duggan and second placed Vicki Thompson after the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run on Sunday.

Amazing: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath was pictured with Peter Cook after he came second in the 60 and over men’s age group in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Fun Run on Sunday.

U19 boys: Xavier Duursma was third, Kieran Hesse was second and Riley Evans was the overall winner in the annual Waratah to Sandy Point Beach Run. They are pictured with Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath.

Men’s 70 and over: Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath with second placed Jim Duggan, winner Andrew Jamieson and third placed Rohan Ireland.

Sportsmen inspire Inverloch FORMER AFL player David Schwartz spoke of his battle with gambling and how his wife helped him regain his life, when he addressed the Sportsman’s Night at Inverloch on Friday.

Inverloch-Kongwak Football Club staged the event at the Inverloch Community Hub. Schwartz, a former Melbourne Football Club player, discussed the highs and lows of gambling that broke him after he lost more than $5 million, and how his wife Karen took control of the

family’s financial affairs to allow him to pay off his debts, and rid him of gambling and bad influences.

The former Demons co-captain also spoke of his exit from radio station SEN late last year after 12 years with the station, along with co-host of The Run Home show, Mark Allen, who also addressed the Inverloch event.

Allen is a former professional golfer and now golf tour host.

The Inverloch panel was completed by former St Kilda and North Melbourne AFL player Nick

Dal Santo, who spoke about his time as professional footballer and now working in radio.

The evening was compered by Herald Sun sports reporter Mark Robinson, who has a holiday house in Inverloch.

Club co-president Peter Butcher said the evening was the club’s main fundraiser for the year and attracted a crowd of 160, including many guests from out of town.

“It was a huge success. It certainly was very interesting. You could have heard a pin drop when David Schwartz spoke. He gave a fascinat-

ing talk,” he said.

Former Leongatha residents and now AFL players, Essendon’s Dyson Heppell and Hawthorn’s Jarryd Roughead, each donated auction prizes of dinner with themselves and a team-mate for eight people. Heppell also donated a signed Essendon jumper for auction.

The night was a great success for the club with lots of laughter that ended in the world’s longest joke told by auctioneer Wayne Reid, but according to some accounts, they were not sure if it was the funniest joke.

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

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SPORT | GOLF Leongatha

Congratulations: Yarram Campdraft Committee members, from left, Karen Penney, Sue Gilliland, Sarah Phelan, Marni Hamilton, Kero Gilliland and Kealee Hamilton congratulate Welshpool’s Marni Hamilton after her win in the Jack O’Neill Memorial Novice draft. Photo by Rhonda Stephens.

Campdraft runs hot IT WAS hot work in and out of the campdraft arena at Yarram on the weekend.

With temperatures predicted to reach a scorching 40 degrees on Saturday, the Yarram Campdraft Committee decided to commence proceedings at 5.30am.

With lots of shade and a welcome breeze and organisers pacing the events to ensure riders and horses were not heat

stressed at any stage during Saturday proceedings, the event was able to be run uninterrupted over the two days.

Saturday morning’s session proved to be a challenging one for the riders with the cattle winning the early runs. As the day wore on the riders got on top.

Lane Bowman,12, from Foster flew the flag for the South Gippsland riders with a win in the under 13 event and Alan Mitchell from Wonthaggi made a final in

the senior division.

The Hamilton sisters from Welshpool were consistent all weekend. Marni took out the Jack O’Neill Memorial Novice Draft. Marni was riding local Sonny Davis’ horse Blue Denim.

The winner of the Alistair Irving Memorial U17’s draft was Michael Holz.

The Open for Open title was won my Michaels father Mat Holz from Modella Gippsland.

Left In the yards: Helping in the yards at the Yarram Campdraft were Robert Lamb from Denison, Glenn Park from Fish Creek and Bill Bodman from Yarram. Photo by Rhonda Stephens.

Below Hot: the Campdrafting action was hot in Yarram on Saturday with riders the going tough. Darren Towns of Maffra was able to get around the arena for a clean run.

Photo by Andrew Frank Photography.

WITH extreme weather conditions on Saturday, only 63 golfers took part in the morning with the afternoon rounds cancelled due to the heat.

Best score of the day and winner of the Overall by countback and the A Grade was Anthony Sparkes with 38 points.

B Grade was taken out by Tim Carberry also with 38 points and Alex Hill won in C Grade with 36 points.

Balls were awarded to Nick Lafferty, Craig Hams, Andy Bassett, Peter Walsh, Barry Attwood, Chris Leaver, Stuart Wigney, Andrew Henley, Craig Nuske, Colin Bear, Ron Chaplin, Bryan Sword, Frank Gill, Evan Jenkins, Peter Omond, Peter Hartigan, Jason Dennerley and John French.

Garry Friend took out the Super Comp on the third hole and NTPs were Ron Chaplin on the 14th hole and Stuart Wigney on the 16th.

Next Saturday is a stroke round for Monthly Medal.

On Tuesday, January 2, a big field of 91 golfers contested a Stableford competition with Aaron Saykan winning the Overall with an excellent score of 45 points.

A Grade was won by youngster Ryan Thomas with 38 points, Wayne Keen won in B Grade with 41 points and Fred de Bondt took out C Grade with 40 points.

Balls were won by Frances O’Brien, Ted Bruinewoud, Nail Mackenzie, Bob Smith, Stephen Chetcuti, William Warren, Col Moyle, John Housey, Peter Read, Kevin Michael, Darren Read, Brian Fennessy, Michael Waters, Lachlan Thomas, John Simon, John French, Allan Edney, Chris Leaver, Bruce Hutton, Russell Williams and Neale Gillin. NTP’s were Geoff McDonald on the 14th and Warren Dummett on the 16th.

On Thursday, January 4, 102 players enjoyed perfect conditions with some great scoring.

Overall winner was Peter Hartigan with 40 points. For the second time this week the inform Wayne Keen had a win, this time in A Grade with 37 points, Col Martin won B Grade with 38 points and in D Grade Brian Fennessy had 39 points to take the honours there.

NTPs were Peter Waters on the 14th and Garry Friend on the 16th. Balls were won by Neil Mackenzie, Nathan Wardle, Peter Waters, Richard Comerford, Gary Travaglia, Joe Lowell, Darrell Prior, Frank Gill, Brendon Simon, Simon Drummond, John Housey, Chris Leaver, Ted Bruinewoud, Marilyn Williams, Russell Williams, Warren Dummett, Garry Friend, Allan Schache, Arthur Nilsson, Ian Barlow, Stephen Chetcuti, Greg Welsford, Jon Smith and Hugh

Sunday nine hole competition

Winning: Yarram Campdraft president Peter Boddy presents the Jack O’Neill Memorial trophy to Welshpool’s Marni Hamilton on Blue Denim after she took out the novice draft.

The January round was played in perfect golf conditions.

Toni West with 41 strokes won the ladies best gross and Clint Walker with 35 was the winner for the men.

Best net for the ladies was won by Louise Schache with 4616-30.

Phil Knox with 42-12.5-29.5 won the men’s best net.

Trevor Steer won NTP. The team winners were: 1.

Rule 35, 2. The Floggers 131.5, 3. Top Dogs 135, 4. LLT.

thestar.com.au

With two more rounds to play the contest is very close.

The next round will be played on February 4.

Thank you to sponsors Kevin and Deborah Scott of the South Gippsland Kennels and Cattery.

Leongatha ladies PLAYING in perfect golf conditions, 41 players competed in the Mixed Stableford event.

Best score of the day and B Grade winner was Darren Fletcher (22) with 40 points.

A Grade was won by Troy O’Connor with 35 points and the C Grade winner was Marg Griffiths who scored 38 points.

DTL balls went to Sue Wylie 39, Anna deBondt and Louise Schache 35, Wendy Parker 34, Liz Hodge, Jan Brownlie and Pam Christensen 33 and Karen Castledine- Briggs and Coral Gray both 32 c/b.

Nearest the Pin went to 14th Sue Martin and 16th Helen Mackenzie.

Nine Hole Competition: There were six players and the overall winner with an excellent score of 20 points was Sue Woods A down the line ball was won by Wendy Brown with 18 points.

Saturday, January 6.

A strong northerly and searing heat saw the club heat policy invoked.

Only players hitting off before 9am were permitted to play.

This did not prevent 10 women from participating.

Somehow Karen CastledineBriggs didn’t seem to notice the conditions and won the event with an amazing score of 44 points off her 31 handicap.

She won by a clear margin of nine points.

Completing a great early morning round she was Nearest the Pin on 16th as well.

DTL balls were won by Jan Brownlie 35 points and Marilyn Williams and Lynne Hart both with 33 points.

Korumburra ladies THE New Year and Christmas holidays have diminished the number of players lately.

It was good to see Judy Webb return after a long absence spent touring Australia and taking a couple of short overseas trips.

A small field of 14 played a Stableford round on Wednesday with Heather Grist, playing off 23 handicap, having the best score in A Grade of 36 points and Judy Webb 21 was the runner up on 34 points.

In B Grade, Betty Yann 33 continued her good form to be the winner with a nice 39 points and Pam Eyers 37, also in form lately, was the runner up with 37 points.

Barb Walker played closest to the hole on the first and Lee Clements was closest on the 13th.

Wednesday, January 10 is a Stroke round and the Monthly Medal.

The members send best wishes to Beryl Brown for a speedy recovery after a shoulder operation.

The 2018 syllabus and telephone tree/contact list will be available on Wednesday.

Members are asked to ensure they collect a current list as there have been some changes in the tree and phone numbers.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 45

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Day 3: Mixed Triples were won Marg McDonald (Portt Welshpool), Rob Greaves (Port Welshpool), and Anthony Young (Cockatoo) (Skip).

Wet weather: club president Peter Macphail took the opportunity to display his green surfing skills.

Port Welshpool PORT Welshpool and District Bowling Club held its annual three day tournament on December 28 to 30.

The tournament was well attended with teams and players from many of the local clubs as well as from Rosedale, West Sale, Cockatoo and Pakenham.

Once again, Port Welshpool’s much maligned weather played its part with warm, humid conditions kicking off the first day. The second days play was completed moments before heavy rain completely covered the green under enough water for our president to display his surfing skills on the green.

Despite the threatening weather everyone enjoyed a great day.

A scrumptious dinner was offered for any players who remained after the days play.

Nine players from Pakenham attended all three days and the club would especially like to thank them for helping us make up Mixed Triples teams with the Port Welshpool players on the last day.

A big thank you goes to the sponsors over the three days including Welshpool Waste Disposal, Phelan and Henderson, Peter Stoitse Transport and Travelling Jack.

Travelling Jack set up a display of their bowls wares for the day which was fantastic.

Every cent counts to a tiny club like this so the support is greatly appreciated.

The daily raffle prizes of whiting were kindly donated by club members John and Cheryl Roberts.

The major seafood

Inverloch

Day 2: Fours were won by the Pakenham team of Bryan, Gary Crowley (Skip), Steve and Kevin.

CHAMPION of Champions

INVERLOCH Bowling Club, along with all Inverloch enterprises, is unusually busy at this time of the year, with the influx of holidaymakers, who are invited to try their hands (or polish their existing skills) in the annual Summer Barefoot Bowling program.

Around 130 barefoot bowlers attended the opening night on Tuesday, January 2, followed by a good turn up on the following Wednesday and Friday.

Inverloch Bowling Club will open its rinks to local and visiting players - especially the holiday-makers - on the following dates in January: Wednesday, 10, Thursday, 11, Saturday, 14, Monday, 15, Thursday, 18, Sunday, 21, and Monday, 22.

Visitors are invited to play

from 4pm until 7pm.

Sets of club bowls are provided and basic instruction by club members is offered to all new players.

Entry fee is $10 per person, but family tickets and season tickets are available for those who wish to play more frequently. Minimum age for barefoot bowlers is 10 years, for safety reasons.

Drinks available at bar prices, and all, including non playing members of the family are welcome.

The regional Champion of Champions events are still in progress and all results will be known and published in the next edition of this newspaper.

Meanwhile, the normal social bowls events are played at Inverloch on Wednesdays and Thursdays, except the monthly

men’s triples event held on the third Wednesday of the month, January 18, until Pennant Bowls resume on January16 (Tuesday Pennant) and January 20 (Saturday Pennant).

Last Thursday, January 4, the mixed mufti social game was won by Anne Schiderer’s team, Linda Galliot and Joan Clark, with 32 points.

Runners up, with 31 points, were Nic Van Grunsven (Skip), Gail Burge and Margaret Griffin.

The men’s social game held on the previous day was won by Bob Davis (S), aith Paul Davis, Reg Varty and Gavin Blew.

Next Friday, January 12, will be Members’ Lucky Draw Night at Inverloch, and the Friday Meal will return the following Friday, January 19.

Day 1: Triples won by a composite team of Terry Corcoran (Toora), Peter Macphail (Port Welshpool) and Andrew ‘Jacko’ Jackson (Melbourne Bowling Club). raffle was extraordinarily well supported, won by Bob of Rosedale, a long standing supporter of our annual tournament.

Thank you to the members who attended the working bee and prepared the club for the tournament, especially Peter Macphail for his many hours preparing the green.

Marg McDonald did an exceptional job as tournament coordinator. Thank you to Trevor Vening for his stellar bar keeping and to the ladies who did a fantastic job catering for the tournament.

It is also tremendous to get such glowing feedback from people who played at the tournament, especially from those who have trav-

Great competition: runner up Jenny Miller with champion Paddy Francis.

South Gippsland Bowls Division

Great result: Thursday social winners at Inverloch were Joan Clark, Linda Galliot and Anne Tschiderer.

Singles (ladies): This event played at Leongatha Bowling Club on Wednesday, January 3,

elled a long way to visit the club: “Well done on running a well-oiled tournament.

The lunch time egg sandwiches a highlight. Of course our Port Welshpool team winning first day was pleasing. I will be back next year.”

Jacko, Melbourne Bowling Club.

All players are reminded that Saturday Pennant starts back this week at home to Inverloch and Midweek Pennant is away to San Remo next week.

All club matches have been played and, therefore, the club champions have been decided.

A full report of this, including how the club champions faired at the Champion

and Friday, January 5, saw 15 of the 16 Club Champions of the South Gippsland Bowling Clubs competing for the title.

In pleasant weather on both days the spectators were treated to some fine bowling.

The semi finals were contested by San Remo’s Robyn Dennis versus Loch and District’s Jenny Miller and Fish Creek’s Nic McKenzie against Phillip Island’s Paddy Francis.

The final was between Jenny Miller and Paddy Francis where Paddy was really” in the zone” coming through as the winner for 2017 - 18.

She will go on to play the West Gippsland Bowling Division winner in West Gippsland in February.

Many thanks to the many markers and umpires and the Leongatha club for all its input with a special mention to the scoreboard attendants.

of Champions will be in next week’s paper The Monthly Three Bowl Triples will be on Wednesday, January 17.

If you wish to enter a team in, the club would love to have you.

Please call tournament manager Marg McDonald on 03 51 851 226 or Errol Gregory on 0417 133 271 or email the club at portwelshpoolbc@ gmail.com.

Fridays are practice from 4pm.

This is followed by a barbecue dinner - club members and visitors prices apply.

Drinks are at bar prices.

All social members and visitors are most welcome to attend.

Runners up: Nic Van Grunsven (S), John Arnold, Gail Burge and Margaret Griffin came in second in Inverloch’s Thuesday social bowls.

Meeniyan HOPEFULLY everyone is refreshed after the break.

To those stalwarts who have been playing in the December/January tournaments sometimes in trying conditions. Thankyou.

The men’s singles championship was decided last week with Peter Williams successfully defending last year’s title against Alan Hanks.

Monthly Triples on Thursday, January 4, was sponsored

by Bendigo Bank.

Winners were Roger Bal-

Winners: Fish Creek’s Annual Bowls Tournament winners were Milton Heywood, Linda Heywood, Joe Lavarda and Mark Angwin. They are pictured with sponsor Daryl McGannon, Leongatha Edney’s dealership principal.

Fish Creek FISH Creek Bowls Club’s Annual Bowls Tournament was held on Sunday, January 7, and Monday, January 8.

Saturday’s event unfortunately was cancelled due to the heat.

The sponsor was Leongatha Edney’s, and Daryl McGannon was there to pres-

ent the winners with their trophies.

The winners were Milton Heywood, Linda Heywood, Joe Lavarda and Mark Angwin.

ment (Korumburra) with Trevor and Robyn Henn (Mirboo North).

Runners up were Chas Bucilli, Trevor Snelling and Laurie Gabell (Inverloch).

Best last game went to Ray Lecher’s Toora team.

Saturday pennant resumes on January 13 with threes away to Loch and fives away to Inverloch White.

Midweek resumes on Tuesday, January 16, with a home game against Wonthaggi.

The corporate bowls pairs overall winners were Old Salts.

The popular triples is due to start mid-January with Ray Corry the contact.

The next major event is 3, 4, 5, bankers’ triples on Monday, January 15.

Upshot 2.

South Gippsland Midweek Bowls Group A REMINDER to all midweek bowlers, bowls resumes on January 11 at San Remo at 10.30 am for an 11am start.

For more details, call Peter McWilliams on 03 5678 5974.

Come along and have a great day of fun and bowling, with friendly people.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

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Nippers go head to head THE Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club’s junior Nipper program, which has run for the past two weeks, culminated on Saturday with the annual competition against Venus Bay Nippers on Saturday.

David Knights from Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club said we had perfect water and beach conditions here at Inverloch on Saturday and had an early start to avoid the heat and the expected windy conditions predicted later in the day.

“The Nippers competition day is a great foundation for building junior skills on the Bass Coast they have developed during their Nipper sessions. You can see all the children are having fun and enjoy the friendly rivalry between the two clubs,” Mr Knights said.

Seventy Venus Bay Nippers joined the Inverloch Nippers, who were well supported by the volunteer water safety members and age managers for each year level.

Peter Creswell, Nippers coordinator from Inverloch said, “Both clubs’ water safety members were exceptional ensuring the competition ran smoothly.

They are a vital part of our program and we thank them for giving up their valuable time to support the younger members of the clubs.”

Events on the day were beach sprints, swims, boards, Ironman and the ever popular flags where crowds cheered on the competitors.

The flags event is not only for the fast sprinters but agility and strategy are qualities competitors use to their advantage.

Friendly competition: Ella Rowe from Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club and Jessica Moore from Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club enjoyed catching up for a day of fun, as well as In action: Erica Kitney participated in the competition, on the annual Nippers competition day on Saturday. The girls were in the U12 U13 board leg in the annual Nippers competition day on Saturday. age group.

The Bill and Gwen Bowers Perpetual Shield was won by the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club Nippers after points were added up for participation and places throughout the day.

Close one: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s Tate Cumming and Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club’s Tom Woolhouse were neck and neck in the U13 flags challenge on Saturday. Tate Off and racing: the U11 girls competed in beach sprints in the annual Nippers competition was the winner in the end. day on Saturday.

Nippers go crazy for colourful caps THE Nippers program at Waratah Beach Surf Life Saving Club is well underway with over 160 Nippers registering for the program in just the first week.

While the program is focussed on surf education and life saving awareness, junior activities coordinator Natalie Ashdown said the program aims to ensure the Nippers are having a lot of fun too.

Last week saw the introduction of crazy cap day where the Nippers swapped their traditional blue and red club cap for a colourful cap for the day.

The caps were made by retiree and long term club member Barb Webb, who makes the club caps and fashioned up the colourful caps from odd pieces of material.

Barb donated the caps to the club and was delighted to see the Nippers enjoying them.

Other activities this season include film nights and a family barbecue night.

“These activities along with learning CPR, board skills, tube rescue, body surfing, wading, beach flags and other fundamental lifesaving activities mean the Nippers are in for a really great time this summer,” Ms Ashdown said.

“And they will be well supported with more than 20 parent volunteers acting as age managers and cooking the Friday barbecue and over 70 members assisting with water safety.”

Happy heads: The Nippers at Waratah Beach Surf Life Saving Club had a great day recently wearing crazy, colourful caps.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 47

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Exciting experience: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s Nippers were thrilled to see the Westpac Surf Rescue Chopper Crew land on the beach, giving them the opportunity to have a look at the chopper and ask some questions.

Emergency crews educate Nippers VENUS Bay Surf Life Saving Club Nippers were visited by Westpac Surf Rescue Chopper Crew, CFA and Community Emergency Response Team on Sunday.

In an invaluable lesson on the importance of all emergency services, almost 200 young nippers enjoyed presentations, an educational session, and sausage sizzle to celebrate the amazing work of the emergency services.

Having the Westpac Surf Rescue Chopper land on the beach was a real highlight and a very rare occurrence.

Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club president Craig Watson said; “One of the key reasons our club was awarded National Surf Life Saving Club of the Year was due to our community involvement. It’s

really important our Nippers are aware of the massive role the CFA and Cert play in providing support and safety to our community. Having the chopper here was just icing on the cake. We spend the season training our Nippers to be safe in the water and to assist others when needed. To do this we also need to provide them with fun learning experiences. Having the Westpac Chopper crew land on the beach and learn firsthand about the amazing work they do was invaluable.”

The Westpac team held a question and answer session and encouraged the Nippers to get up close to the massive chopper.

The Venus Bay beach is patrolled by lifeguards every week day and Saturday mornings by professional lifeguards until Australia Day. The Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club life savers patrol weekends and public holidays until Easter.

Demonstration: Torah Fagan assisted with a demonstration of how harnesses are used when Learning the ropes: emergency services including the Westpac Surf Rescue Chopper Westpac Surf Rescue Chopper Crew, CFA and Community Emergency Response Team vis- Crew, CFA and Community Emergency Response Team gave the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club Nippers an educational experience on Sunday. ited the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club on Sunday.

Stay safe this summer on Phillip Island’s beaches WOOLAMAI Beach is one of Victoria’s most beautiful beaches, but can have unpredictable conditions.

To keep beachgoers safe over summer, Woolamai Surf Life Saving Club is well and truly into its patrol season.

To support Phillip Island and San Remo’s busiest times of the year, the patrol season started on December 2 and will run until April 15.

Woolamai Surf Life Saving Club provides volunteer patrols at Woolamai Beach and Smiths Beach.

The club will be launching its new Smiths Beach Rescue Base to provide an observation tower, first aid room and shel-

ter for volunteers in inclement weather.

The rescue base will be delivered by club member Mark Donaldson, and supported by Rotary Phillip Island and San Remo, Bass MLA Brian Paynter and Victorian State Government Emergency Services.

The club also provide a jet ski rescue service from Newhaven.

The professional lifeguard program provides a lifeguard at Cowes, meaning the club’s service ranges nearly 100 kilometres – the largest jurisdiction in Australia.

The Nipper program ran from December 29 until January 4.

This program was immensely popular

with a significant number of local children participating each year. Registrations opened in November and quickly booked to capacity.

Currently, the club’s paid membership is at 950. New members are always welcome and several training courses are run each year.

The club recently received a Victorian State Government Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program grant. This will enable the club to purchase a new 4WD callout vehicle next season, as well as an all terrain vehicle.

The coastal environment takes a toll on the club’s equipment and facilities.

The community can support the service

by donating at the club’s website, sponsoring patrols or major events, and participating in fundraising.

The Cowes Classic and Island Swim Classic well be held on February 3, and the San Remo Channel Challenge will be held on February 17.

These major fundraisers are important festivals for the two communities, and also help the club cover the cost of operation. Many traders report these events are their largest trading days of the year.

The club also provides water safety advice to ensure a fun, safe event is enjoyed by all.

Registrations for these events are now open.

For those looking to visit these beaches over summer, it is critical to remember Woolamai Beach’s exposure to Bass Strait and the surf can be unpredictable with strong currents.

Smiths Beach is more protected by wind and swells, offering gentler conditions.

Phillip Island is the most popular beach for board riders, so swimming between the flags is important.

The club urges beachgoers to always swim between the flags, and to avoid the water if there are any doubts.

People are encouraged to ask questions to patrollers so everyone understands the risks.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018

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Good game: the U14 and U15 representative teams made the Leongatha and District Cricket Association proud during Junior Country Week last week.

Well hit: playing in the Under 15 Twenty20 match against Central Gippsland last Tuesday was Leongatha and District Cricket Association’s Josh Williams. The match was played at Scorpion Park in Leongatha.

Bold batting: Evan Allway played in the Leongatha and District Cricket Association Under 15 team against Central Gippsland last Tuesday, in the Twenty20 match held at Scorpion Park in Leongatha.

Gippsland Junior Country Week Championships of 2018 U14 team of the week: back from left, Nick Caddy (Warragul), Andrew Burdett (Warragul), Lachie Smith (Central Gippsland), Ethan Lamers (Leongatha and District), Max Welsh (Bairnsdale, Ethan Aurisch (Sale Maffra), front from left, Oscar Kenter (Leongatha and District), Darcy Hume (Leongatha and District), Tom Wrigglesworth (Sale Maffra), Jack Butcher (Leongatha and District), and Matt Leong (Bairnsdale) were named the best batsmen, bowlers and wicket keepers for Junior Country Week.

Leongatha District Cricket Association

Umpire Appointments EVANS PETROLEUM Round 10 - January 13 Home team

Away Team

Grade A1 Korumburra v Glen Alvie Won Club v OMK Phillip Island v Inverloch Town v Kilcunda Bass Grade A2 Foster v Won Miners MDU v Koon L/RS Imperials v Poowong Loch Nerrena v Bye Grade B1 Kilcunda Bass v Town Koon L/RSL v MDU OMK v Won Club Nerrena v Phillip Island Grade B2 Poowong Loch v Imperials Inverloch v Glen Alvie Won Miners v Korumburra Foster v Bye Grade C1 Won Club v Nerrena OMK v Inverloch Phillip Island v Korumburra Sunday 14th 11am start Town v MDU Grade C2 Korumburra v OMK Glen Alvie v Phillip Island Won Club v Koon L/RSL Poowong Loch v Kilcunda Bass

U15 team of the week: back from left, Aydan Connelly (Central Gippsland), Evan Allaway (Leongatha and District), Corey Fraser (Bairnsdale), Josh Williams (Leongatha and District), Max Keddie (Bairnsdale), Steve Bertino (Bairnsdale), front from left, Curtley Farley (Bairnsdale), Tyron Bramwell (Traralgon), Joshua Monacella (Traralgon), Izayah Terrick (Central Gippsland), and Darion Duncan (Traralgon) performed well in Junior Country Week last week.

THE Gippsland Cricket Championships conducted by the Leongatha and District Cricket Association were held last week. The six cricket associations’ U15 and U14 teams played five games during the week against each other over the first four days.

According to ladder positions finals were held on the Friday. 1 v 2, 3 v 4 and 5 v 6.

At the end of the successfully, organised week there were presentations of individual trophies and medallions to the teams announced Champions.

There was also the announcement of the All Gippsland Team in both divisions.

The Under 15 competition was conducted upon four turf wickets.

It was a great credit to the local clubs and curators that many high scoring games were played and that the talented batsmen had a chance to show their skills.

Top batsmen for Leongatha were Josh Williams from Inverloch and Evan Allaway from Korumburra who both made 159 runs for the week.

The top wicket taker was Jack Collins from Nerrena who had nine wickets for the week.

Evan Allaway had the glory of taking a hat trick in the game against Warragul.

Bairnsdale Cricket Association went through the week undefeated and also won the Grand Final.

Played on our synthetic wickets was the U14 competition.

Two players had exceptional batting efforts in making hundreds each.

It was no surprise they finished top two in the Batting aggregate with local OMK player Ethan Lamers finishing second with 272 runs for the week including his 101 * in one game.

The winner though was Max Welsh from the Bairnsdale Cricket Association with a sensational 317 runs.

Both players look destined for higher honours.

The top wicket taker was Darcy Hume from Nerrena who had 10 wickets for the week.

The LDCA U14 team ended up on top of the ladder but unfortunately wasn’t able to win the grand final game going down to the Warragul team.

It was a fantastic week with many individual highlights.

Leongatha and District Cricket Association results Round 1 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 5/215 (B Manicaro 46, J Whiteside 39, E Lamers 32, D Hume 27) def Traralgon DCA 72 ( D Hume 3/12, J Whiteside 2/7, L Gill 2/11) Round 2 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 2/173 ( E Lamers 70, D Hume 33*, J Whiteside 31) def Sale Maffra Cricket Association 6/157 ( T Niven 2/18) Round 3 T20 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 7/115 ( E Lamers 56) def Bairnsdale Cricket Association 9/79 ( O Kenter 3/19, T Hanily 2/9 ) Round 4 T20 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 2/150 ( E Lamers 101*, D Hume 27* ) def Central Gippsland Cricket Association 5/101 Round 5 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 88 def by Warragul and

District Cricket Association 106 ( O Kenter 4/17, T Niven 2/20) Grand Final Leongatha and District Cricket Association 83 def by Warragul and District Cricket Association 6/164 ( D Hume 3/23 ) The Under 15’s The local team won three of its five games for the week. In the playoff final the boys had a thrilling game which went down to the last ball. Needing 12 runs off the last over Heath Dobbie 12* and Xavier Doherty 5* got the LDCA over the line.

Leongatha and District Cricket Association results Round 1 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 6/159 (J Williams 49, J Collins 25*) def Traralgon DCA 140 ( J Collins 4/16) Round 2 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 6/130 ( E Allaway 51* ) lost to Sale Maffra Cricket Association 4/144 ( E Allaway 2/13) Round 3 T20 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 9/71 lost to Bairnsdale Cricket Association 2/142 Round 4 T20 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 2/125 ( J Williams 64, E Allaway 51* ) def Central Gippsland Cricket Association 2/128 Round 5 Leongatha and District Cricket Association 9/132 ( J Wrigley 29 ) def Warragul and District Cricket Association 116 ( J Collins 3/12, E Allaway 3/23, H Fincher 2/8) Playoff FinalLeongatha and District Cricket Association 6/163 ( J Collins 50, E Allaway 29, J Williams 28 ) def Warragul and District Cricket Association 3/162.

Ground

Umpire

Kor Turf McMahon Cowes SP 1

G. Adams T. Rogers J. Schelling G. Laird

FGC Meen Leon Turf

G. Wightman M. Heenan A. Stride

Cricket cancelled

Bass 1 Koon Outtrim Nerrena

N. Grabham N. Grayden A. Jordan I. Richards

ALL cricket games were cancelled last weekend after the Leongatha and District Cricket Association heat policy was invoked.

Loch Inv Turf Dalyston

I. Thomas K. Scrimshaw G. Wyatt

Won SC Digger Pk Rhyll

N. Barnes TBA TBA

Scorp Pk

M. Heenan

Kor SC Glen Alvie Leon Velo Poowong

TBA B. Bek TBA TBA

Any person interested in umpiring contact Graham Laird 0408 454 741.

SPONSORED BY EVANS PETROLEUM

Ready to bat: Leongatha and District Cricket Association junior cricketers Ned Hanily and Jack Collins were getting ready to play in the Under 15s Twenty20 match against Central Gippsland, held at Scorpion Park in Leongatha last Tuesday.

Junior matches and C Grade matches were called off on Friday night. A Grade and B Grade were called off at 10.30am on Saturday.

The heat policy is enacted if Friday’s weather forecast suggests Saturday will reach 42 degrees, or if it reaches 40 degrees at 10.30am on game day.

Association secretary Gary Adams said the association had predicted the round would be cancelled, but were required to follow protocol.

“At the moment there is a bit of comment going around asking why we couldn’t just call it off. The rules can only be changed at our annual general meetings. Perhaps the policy is set too high, and that’s something the clubs can come together and discuss at the meeting,” he said.

Mr Adams said the association brought in the heat policy three years ago, and this was the first time it has been enacted.

All senior games were declared a draw as a result, and each club will receive six points.

The next annual general meeting will likely be held in July, and clubs are welcome to bring up ideas about the heat policy.

The community commended the association’s heat policy on The Great Southern Star’s Facebook page.

• Les Paterson: Common sense prevailing, good to see.

• Kelly Fisher: I think it’s the best thing for the health and well being for any sports person. My daughter’s athletics also got cancelled as well as my son’s cricket. It’s the way it should be without a thought • Allison Drury: I just think about the poor umpires standing out in the heat all day. It may be a summer game but there is a point where the heat is dangerous.

Good call LDCA. • Ros Griggs: LDCA do a great job keeping teams informed and making the call in a timely way. Great to have the guidelines....

• Wendy Parker: Heat affects some people in different ways, I used to not have a problem in the hot weather but now being on blood pressure tablets and a senior that has all changed, no fun feeling faint playing a sport I love.

• Graeme Heath: Yes sensible, free up our emergency health services.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 49

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Local girl Sophie chalks up a double

By Gavin Stubbs IN A riding display that finally rewarded her talent, local jockey Sophie Logan produced a masterful performance on Sunday at Woolamai picnic races to land a winning double.

While it was the first time Logan had tasted victory on her home track this season from the two meetings to date, it was just a matter of time before she broke through and may prove a catalyst for future success.

Woolamai and District Racing Club secretary Bev Carmichael said, “The weather was ideal after the very hot Saturday and we were very pleased with the day even though the attendance was slightly down on previous years.”

“This was probably due to the fact it was a Sunday meeting and a lot of people were heading home after their holiday break and going back to work the next day,” Mrs Carmichael said.

“It was lovely to see a lot of families with children in the crowd. The children had a wonderful day of activities provided by Kelly Sports as part of the Kids Summer of Racing Program. They were also entertained by Pockets the Clown, face painting and the jumping castle.”

Club president Robert Carmichael said, “It was great to see so many families with the picnic rugs out and the Kelly Sports activities are proving exceedingly popular. Also local Bass Coast businesses are again supportive with sponsorship and all this sets up well for our next meeting.”

In mild conditions with the gentlest of ocean breezes present, conditions were tailor made for an

Race joy: a very happy jockey Sophie Logan comes into the mounting yard accompanied by the race steward after winning Race 2 at Woolamai on Sunday. Photo supplied by picnicbet.com afternoon at the races and the on track action didn’t disappoint. The opening event on the six race card saw the Cranbourne trained Mr Gogarty demolish his rivals by an ever increasing 12 length margin.

Giving jockey Maddison Morris an armchair ride throughout, Mr Gogarty simply outstayed the rest of the field and a career over the jumps beckons for the seven year old.

Trainer Ray Caldwell was keen to point out the ability of his horse over hurdles and was adamant plans were afoot for this in the future.

Race two saw the first of Sophie Logan’s win-

ning rides and was also an excellent result for the locals in the training ranks with Last One Laughing bringing up victory number four from just fourteen starts. The horse is trained at Corinella

by Shae Eden, who is enjoying a superlative run with his charges of late. Recent wins at Moonee Valley and Flemington as well as the provincial tracks have again put the Eden stable in the spotlight, however Shae no doubt still derives great satisfaction from winning races at Woolamai. Last One Laughing was positioned well by Logan and proved too classy in the run to the post.

Race three went to Cranbourne trained four year old Mystyko, giving win number two to Sophie.

In a polished riding display, the horse looked well balanced in the run and was given every chance of victory. Stride by stride Mystyko was able to

Winner: race 4 winning jockey Courtney Pace with Kelvin Southey after her confiDay out: Leigh Taylor and Kylie White endent ride on My Running Mate at Woolamai Winning double: local jockey Sophie Lo- joyed a great day out at Woolamai races on gan was thrilled to win two races on Sunday races on Sunday.

Sunday. at Woolamai.

Top day: Joy and Tony Crennin attended the Line honours: first past the post in Race 2 on Sunday at Woolamai races was local jockey Woolamai races on Sunday and were thankful of the perfect weather conditions.

Sophie Logan. Photo supplied by picnicbet.com

gain the ascendancy over adversaries up the home straight and prevail in a tight finish. In racing or indeed most sports, when there is little separating competitors, tactical supremacy is at a premium and once again Logan has proven she can more than match it with her rivals in that department.

The fourth race on the card went to the Mornington trained My Running Mate, ridden by the picnic circuit’s leading jockey Courtney Pace. Racing just off the speed, My Running Mate rounded up the leaders with 100 metres to go and proved too classy for the rest of the field. Horses travel kindly for Pace and this race was no exception, with both horse and rider always looking to have rivals covered throughout.

Race five saw the Cranbourne trained Barley Mo break through for win number one, giving jockey Max Keenan his first win for the day.

Keenan was able to take advantage of his horse being more seasoned than others in the field and rode with guile and experience to guide the mare home.

The day’s final event went to the Seymour trained La Rita, ridden by Reece Goodwin. The horse is proving a consistent money spinner for connections and was able to surge to victory in another competitive finish. With challengers coming thick and fast all the way up the straight, La Rita and Goodwin would not be denied and clung on to score a narrow victory.

The next race meeting at Woolamai will be held on Saturday, January 20, followed by our Cup meeting on February 10.

Great win for South Zone VETERANS Cricket Victoria’s normal matches were suspended this weekend, allowing Zone matches to take place.

Players from Gippsland Goannas, Casey and West Gippsland, Iona, Mornington Peninsula and Bayside clubs were selected to play for “South Zone”.

They played against “East Zone”, which comprises Over-60 clubs from Glen Waverley, Ringwood, Yarra Valley, Warrandyte and ACS. The match was to be played on the turf at Narre Warren, but, unfortunately, it had to be transferred to a synthetic wicket at Glen Waverley.

The 45 over per side match was played on Sunday; thank goodness the conditions were not the same as Saturday.

Ray Smith, Goannas, was captain of the South Zone and he decided to bat first on winning the toss.

Greg Hulm (Casey) and David Leach (Warragul) opened the batting brightly, both scoring in the 20s.

They were replaced by Smith and John Wilson (Bayside), who took the score to 1 for 111 at the 22 over drinks break. Wilson top scored and retired at 43, while Smith was out for 28.

Peter Felstead and Peter Hockey, both from Casey, batted next (briefly), allowing the Goannas pair of Ian Gibson, 25, and Neil Meredith, 42, to combine for a healthy partnership. Ron Lovel MP, 24 not out, and Dave Green, Casey, 17, took the score to 7 for 237 at the end of the 45th over.

After a break for lunch the East zone started its innings.

Tight bowling by ‘the 2 Ronnies’, Lovel and Kasputis (Casey), restricted the scoring rate to such an extent that East was 6 down for only 21 runs after 17 overs.

Batting 12, they managed to reach 71 when they were all out in 31 overs.

Lovel, 3/12, Kasputis 2/8, Peter Heywood (Casey), 3 overs 3/3, Wilson 2/7, Felstead 1/21 were the wicket takers, and excellent catches were taken by Gibson (w/k), Heywood, Green and Wilson.

The general comment from the South Zone team was; “we batted, bowled and fielded particularly well, and beat a team that was quite strong, very convincingly.”

The Goannas play their next match on Sunday, January 14, against the Yarra Valley team, at the picturesque Seville ground.

Practice will continue on Wednesday from 4.45pm at Glengarry and Friday at Maffra from 4.30pm.

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Ladies’ day treat at Stony Creek Racing Club IT was a massive day at the Stony Creek Racing Club yesterday, Monday, January 8.

Not only were the children entertained with Chris Humfrey’s Wild Action Zoo, the ladies had a lovely day out as well.

The Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club organised this year’s Pink Roses Ladies’ Marquee, with major sponsor Sisterhood Women’s Travel.

Around 70 women enjoyed the day in the marquee, and a percentage of the profits will go back into the surf life saving club for vital equipment.

“It was a fabulous day. It was the first time we’ve been asked to do something like this and we were very excited,” co-organiser Megan Watson said.

Kongwak artist Fiona Kennedy was thanked for having four artworks on display, which helped add an extra touch of elegance in the marquee.

Club CEO Sarah Wolf was thrilled with the outcome of the day.

“People began queuing up at 11.30am to come in, so the club is becoming a great holiday destination for families,” she said.

“Chris (Humfrey) is always a real drawcard for children. They love coming along and seeing native animals they wouldn’t ordinarily get to see.

“The Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club did a great job with the marquee; it’s been a wonderful day.”

Ms Wolf said there was a good field with 101 entries, and the track was in great condition, considering the club held a meeting very recently.

Lucky: from left, Eastern Victoria Region MLC Melina Bath and Leongatha’s Janine Close: jockey Clayton Douglas (left) on Champagne Elle just edged out Brandon Stockdale Moscript celebrated their horse coming in and horse Paris Flirting in the first race of the day at Stony Creek Racing Club yesterday, second at the Stony Creek races yesterday.

Monday, January 8.

Ladies’ day: Leongatha’s Tracey Ryan, Kerryl Battersby, Sharyn Newton and Deb Watchorn had a relaxing day at the Stony Creek races and enjoyed the ladies’ marquee on Monday, January 8.

Race day: from left, Mirboo North’s Jaime Chila, Chelsea Loh, Charlie Chila and Florence Cuddly: Wild Action Zoo’s Chris Hum- “GG” Ebsary had a lovely day at Stony Creek races yesterday. frey introduced Inverloch’s Jessika Blair to a koala at the Stony Creek races yesterday, Monday, January 8.

Stunning: from left, Bass’ Rhonda Evans, Inverloch’s Leanne du Plessis and Judy Stone, and Prahan’s Kirsty Evans looked lovely for the Pink Roses Ladies Marquee at the Stony Creek races on Monday, January 8.

Winners: jockey Clayton Douglas and horse Champagne Elle were pictured just prior to winning the first race of the day at Stony Creek Racing Club yesterday.

Fundraiser: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club members Kelly Watson, Sarah Rovel, Megan Watson, Caroline Martin, Astrid Di Carlo, Sharon Bonga, Loretta Zagon and Karen Woolf thanked Hayley Morris (fourth from the left) from Sisterhood Women’s Travel for sponsoring the Pink Rose Ladies’ Marquee at the Stony Creek races on Monday, January 8.

Exciting: from left, Inverloch’s Sunday and Joseph McCarthy petted a turtle at Chris Humfrey’s Wild Action Zoo at the Stony Creek races yesterday.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, January 9, 2018 - PAGE 51

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Sailors learn new skills

JUNIOR sailors took to the water in Inverloch last week.

Over three big days, 24 beginners – or Tackers – between the ages of seven and 12 learned the basics of sailing from scratch.

This coincided with the “Start Sailing” program for teenage and adult sailors.

The event was held at the South Gippsland Yacht Club in Inverloch, and is an initiative of the Boatshed – Sailing Melbourne.

Qualified trainers journeyed to Inverloch for the week for the program, with South Gippsland Yacht Club member Grace Biram helping out as a qualified assistant trainer.

Day one was held on Tuesday, January 2, and the Tackers were towed through the water by the trainers, and learned about boat and water safety.

On day two, they learned some theory and played games before getting into the boats, and by day three most were sailing independently.

This was the first time the South Gippsland Yacht Club has held this event in four years.

“We are excited to have the program back and hope to get some new members,” Commodore Rob McNair said.

Mr McNair said the club hopes the program will become an annual event, and is looking to host it Set sail: Greensborough’s Lachie Brain, Outtrim’s Oscar and Sam Beachley, and Portaragain this time next year. lington’s Finn Fairlie enjoyed the Tackers program, held in Inverloch over three days last The trainers told Mr McNair that last week’s conweek. ditions in Inverloch were challenging, the beginners did extremely well and showed great improvement.

Concentration: Outtrim’s Sam Beachley handled his Opti well during the last sail of the day last Wednesday.

Gaining experience: the Start Sailing program was held in conjunction with the TackYoung sailor: Greensborough’s Lachie ers program for teenage and adult sailors to Brain impressed trainers during the Tackers pick up some new skills. They sailed in Pac- Ahoy: Greensborough’s Liam Brain waved to The Star Newspaper while out sailing during ers on the water in Inverloch. program in Inverloch last week. the Tackers program held last week.

Great time: Outtrim’s Oscar Beachley had a ball out on the water on Wednesday afternoon as part of the Tackers program in Inverloch. He was in an opti, a small boat used worldwide for training.

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