The Great Southern Star - September 12, 2017 by The Great Southern Star

www.thestar.com.au TUESDAY, SDA DAY, AY,, S SEP SEPTEMBER PTEMBER 1 12, 2 2017 7 - $1 $1.50 0

Demons on fire: MDU became A Grade premiers for the first time in 40 years on Saturday. From left, coach and best on court, Ebony Best and captain Kate Lafferty were thrilled to play and win against Foster in the Alberton league grand final.

Alberton premiers: Fish Creek makes it two from two, taking out the Alberton league 2017 premiership over Toora. Pictured at the Cup presentations are players Owen Straw, Jake Buckland, Bailey Harfield-Park, Trevor Hooker, Toby Redpath, Matthew Taylor, Jarryd Blenkinsop, Callan Park (c), Justin Smith, Travis Manne, Ethan Park, Ryan McGannon, Blaine Coates, Gareth Park, Brent Cooper, Colin McPhee, Jack Hayes, Chad Macri, Andrew Seccull, Lachlan Park, Tom Cameron, coach Greg Hoskin and runner Brendan Richards.

Parrots soar: Leongatha Seniors defeated Traralgon to get through to the grand final. Here Tom Marriott feeds out to Pat McGrath and Cade Maskell as Traralgonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Michael Jacobsen has his hands full.

AWESOME SUPER Saturday was played out on football fields and netball courts throughout South Gippsland and Latrobe Valley.

At Meeniyan Recreation Reserve, Fish Creek made it back to back flags by defeating Toora. MDUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s netballers won four from four flags, the highlight being the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first A Grade premiership in 40 years. At Moe, Leongathaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seniors won their way into the Gippsland League grand final by defeating Traralgon. Nearby at Morwell, Mirboo North came from fifth place to take out the Mid Gippsland Grand Final in a nail biting two point win over the favourite Yinnar. REPORTS AND PHOTOS â&#x20AC;˘ Mid Gippsland page 54 â&#x20AC;˘ Gippsland page 55 â&#x20AC;˘ Alberton (football) pages 52 and 53 â&#x20AC;˘ Alberton (netball) pages 14 and 15. Tigers premiers: Mirboo North won its fifth Mid Gippsland premiership since 2006 with a huge upset against Yinnar on the weekend.

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PAGE 2 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 3

Dairy deal Milk companies stay united to boost South Gippsland By Jessica Anstice DAIRY farmers stand to benefit from an extension to an arrangement between dairy companies Burra Foods of Korumburra and ViPlus of Toora.

ViPlus announced an extension to its partnership with Burra Foods which sees ViPlus buy local milk powder from Burra Foods to manufacture products. The arrangement will result in more jobs at ViPlus’ Toora factory. “Burra Foods and ViPlus are a logical fit as both are committed to maximising the value of what South Gippsland offers, a world best supply chain for milk,” Burra Foods CEO Grant Crothers said. “Burra’s business to business focus and ViPlus’ business to consumer skills complement each other, enhancing the opportunity for success.”

ViPlus revealed it had secured international agreements into new markets in the Middle East, as well as Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines and Singapore. The company plans to enter the market in Africa by the end of this year. ViPlus is also developing a strong presence in the Australian market place with distributor partner IR Exchange group, and China remains an integral part of the company’s growth strategy. In the next 12 months, ViPlus will produce approximately 10 million milk powder products for the Australian market, as well as exporting to China and other countries. “It’s a long term commitment to Burra Foods and the local producers,” ViPlus CEO Peter Cunningham said. He said ViPlus is expected to grow by at least 50 percent in the next 12 months. More than 40 local staff are employed at the Toora production factory, which reopened in

Farm country: ViPlus presented Toora Primary School with a cheque of $5000. Top row from left, Toora Primary School principal Luke Haustorfer with students Maddison, Sunday, Ash, Chea, Django, Scarlet and Mackenzie and front row from left, Phoenix, Tess, Bella, Tom, Ella, Tex, ViPlus CEO Peter Cunningham and South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento.

2012. “We expect a probable increase in staff, whether it is an extension of the hours of the existing shifts or there might be requirement to bring in a further shift,” he said. “It means more jobs in Toora in the future and it means the ultimate beneficiaries are local dairy farmers.” Mr Crothers said Burra Foods continued to upskill staff and recruit new talent. “We are comfortable with our milk supply volume at the moment so we have no immediate plans to recruit new suppliers,” he said. South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento, a former dairy farmer, said, “Companies like ViPlus add value to the dairy industry and grow our community. “We thank ViPlus for its investment in South Gippsland and we look forward to future investments as they come along.” Last Tuesday, September 5, council’s economic development unit joined with ViPlus to host Australian and Chinese media at a showcase of local producers, including a cheese producer, a wine producer, a boutique brewery and distillery. The event included a tour of Burra Foods’ Korumburra factory. Mr Cunningham said, “We have expanded our distribution contracts beyond China into new emerging markets that strengthens our commitment to the Victorian dairy industry. “Gippsland is the heart of Australia’s clean and green dairy industry. The more ViPlus expands production, the greater the future for the whole Factory tour: from left, South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento, ViPlus dairy industry.” quality assurance manager Liz Heald and South Gippsland Shire Council coordinator of ViPlus supports the Toora community through economic development and tourism Ken Fraser explored inside the ViPlus factory in Toora jobs as well as by backing sporting clubs, Toora on Tuesday, September 5. Primary School and the dairy museum.

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Leongatha • Wildﬂower Restaurant, Federation Training Leongatha Campus • Thursday, 12 October, 6:00pm - 8:00pm Bairnsdale • Bairnsdale RSL, 2 Bairnsdale-Forge Creek Rd • Tuesday, 17 October, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Moe • Moe RSL, 63-67 Albert Street • Thursday 21 September, 6.00pm-8.00pm

Sale • Criterion Hotel, 90 MacAlister St • Wednesday, 18 October, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Warragul • Warragul Country Club, 41 Sutton St • Wednesday, 11 October, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

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PAGE 4 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Treatment boost at Bass Coast Health

By Tayla Kershaw

WITH a master plan on the way and works in place to increase capability, Bass Coast Health’s Wonthaggi Hospital is on its way to gaining subregional status. At a public access meeting held recently, the hospital outlined its plans for new treatment – including telemedicine to rapidly treat stroke patients and brachytherapy for prostate cancer patients – and ongoing modifications to the emergency department. “Twelve months ago, we spoke about our financial, historical and internal struggles. We told people to bear with us and be kind because we were doing our best. We don’t have to do that anymore,” board chairman Don Paproth said. “With our outstanding CEO (Jan Child), senior staff and board, we can talk about improving health outcomes and the quality of life for our patients.” To achieve better health outcomes, Bass Coast Health has increased its partnerships with metro health facilities, which has opened the hospital up to more resources. One such partnership is with The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health. Through this partnership, Bass Coast Health recently launched its telemedicine program to treat stroke patients. “Rapid treatment means the difference between life, death and disability. This is a huge accolade for Bass Coast Health,” Dr Chris Bladin from the Florey Institute said. The telemedicine program has been rolled out to 16 hospitals in regional and rural Victoria. The technology allows local doctors to immediately connect with specialists from Melbourne to treat patients ef-

Big steps: from left, Bass Coast Health CEO Jan Child, associate professor and clinical director Garry Wilkes, consultant radiation oncologist Louise Nardone and board chairman Don Paproth spoke about the thrilling changes happening at Bass Coast Health at a recent public access meeting. ficiently and effectively. The protocol for stroke patients is to have an urgent cat scan. The technology allows a Melbourne neurologist to quickly have eyes on a patient’s scan and direct local doctors. Doctors can discuss the situation with a specialist, quickly diagnose and begin treatment. “We are very proud that if you have a stroke in

Victoria, you will receive the same level of care in Wonthaggi as you would if you lived five kilometres away from the Royal Melbourne Hospital,” Dr Bladin said. “It also provides reassurance. One in three calls is not a stroke, but some other neurological condition. One in five patients has stroke thrombolysis and clot busting treatment.”

Bass Coast Health is also looking to start brachytherapy – a new form of radiation treatment for prostate cancer. According to consultant radiation oncologist Louise Nardone, Gippsland has the worst survival rates for prostate cancer in Victoria, and men are twice as likely to have non curative treatment in Gippsland. “Access to curative treatment can be an issue, so we have plans to introduce brachytherapy to three centres: Bass Coast Health, Latrobe Regional Hospital and Bairnsdale Regional Health Service,” she said. Low dose rate brachytherapy treats low or intermediate risk patients. Radioactive seeds are permanently implanted near the tumour and release small amounts of radiation over several months. Most who receive the treatment can go home the same day, and any swelling usually reduces within a week. As the hospital begins to treatment more complex patients, the emergency department will be working hard to keep up. Associate professor and clinical director Garry Wilkes joined the Bass Coast Health team several weeks ago, aiming to lift the capabilities of the emergency department. “The emergency department is a busy place and appearances have boomed. Last year, the hospital cracked 15,000 patients, and as more services are offered more people will come,” he said. Professor Wilkes will continue to work with other health organisations to bring more specialists to Wonthaggi. It is recognised the emergency department is in the wrong spot and relocating it is the priority of the master plan.

‘Just doing our job’ Council responds to criticism over parking fines SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has rejected criticism of its parking enforcement during the Leongatha Daffodil Festival’s inaugural street festival on September 2.

The Star was contacted by many people unhappy with fines being issued during the street festival. Council’s local laws coordinator Bruce Gardiner said no one came to council refusing to pay a fine, despite The Star being informed to the contrary. Council issued five parking fines on Saturday, September 2, and another 26 infringement notices in two hour areas in the Leongatha CBD during separate patrols by two officers on Friday, September 1. Mr Gardiner said he was unaware of any negative feedback other than that expressed on The Star’s Facebook page last week.

“It’s incredibly unfair for people to criticise or berate our staff for simply doing their job. Our officers get no joy from issuing infringement notices to fellow members of this community,” Mr Gardiner said. “For them to be held up to public ridicule and abuse in such circumstances is unconscionable behaviour by those that participated. The easiest thing in the world to avoid is a parking infringement. Our signs are clear and tell drivers what is expected of them when they park their vehicle.” Mr Gardiner said on Saturday, September 2, one infringement notice was issued to a driver overstaying in a one hour area in McCartin Street. A further four infringement notices were issued to drivers who had parked in no standing, loading and taxi zones. “When people park in such areas they force the

legitimate users (delivery drivers, taxis, etc) to stop in dangerous areas to undertake their business,” Mr Gardiner said. He said local business owners praised council for patrolling parking areas as the turnover of traffic was good for business. The Star was told a visitor to the area who was fined said she would never come back to Leongatha. “Our understanding is that the only person fined for overstaying on Saturday was a local resident. If someone parked in a no standing or loading zone they should not be surprised they received a ticket,” Mr Gardiner said. Council will be releasing “educative materials” about parking leading into the busy Christmas shopping period. Mr Gardiner said parking officers would attend further events, targeting parking, littering, animal management, and obstructions.

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

36 McCartin Street, Leongatha 3953 : PO Box 84 LEONGATHA 3953 Postal Telephone : 5662 2294 : 5662 4350 Fax Web : www.thestar.com.au Editor Brad Lester : news@thestar.com.au Advertising Manager Joy Morgan : advertising@thestar.com.au Find us on Facebook Produced and published by Giles Newspapers Pty Ltd and printed by Latrobe Valley Express, Morwell. Registered business. ACN 006507580 | ABN 61 318 952 541 Print Post 336735 10006 HOUSE1627

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 5

Tough call Alberton league reviews competition’s future By Brad Lester THE future of the Alberton Football Netball League remains uncertain in the wake of stunning grand finals at Meeniyan on Saturday.

League officials have already spoken with AFL Gippsland and Alberton clubs about where clubs will play in 2018. The Allies Football Netball Club is reviewing its future which hinges on having adequate players, and some clubs have indicated to the Alberton league other competitions they would prefer to play in, namely the Ellinbank and District, and Mid Gippsland leagues. Alberton football operations manager Neil Park said league officials had held discussions amongst

themselves about whether they could sustain the current seven club competition, or if the Allies fold, a six club league. “The Allies have had a shaky year and we hope they can stay in touch with it. We’re hanging it (league’s future) on that,” he said. “We’re still in the throes of working out what is the best option.” Mr Park said the Allies were holding discussions about their club’s future, but if they folded, the future of the Alberton league would rest with the remaining clubs. “It would depend on the clubs themselves whether they think it is viable enough to go ahead with six,” he said. “We barely got there with seven. We need eight or nine or 10 to keep it going. “I think to drop it to six might make it hard to maintain the current player

list that each club has got. They might look elsewhere in a stronger league.” Mr Park said the lack of junior footballers was concerning clubs and he could not see more juniors taking up the code. “There are not enough young boys about. I do not believe so many kids want to play footy,” he said, adding the consolidation of farms was reducing the rural population and so affecting the potential pool of players for some clubs. Mr Park said the league would welcome the inclusion of Yarram and Woodside football clubs in the Alberton fixture, but doubted Yarram, at least, would be interested in a return given that club’s success in the North Gippsland league. Mr Park said further discussions between the league and the clubs would take place before the end of the year. AFL Gippsland was contacted for comment.

Frightening crash: a P plate driver spun out of control on the South Gippsland Highway just out of Korumburra last Tuesday, September 5.

Car spins out of control Poignant moment: Fish Creek Seniors captain Callan Park leads his players on to the ground in the Alberton Seniors grand final on Saturday.

A P PLATER lost control during extreme weather, flipping his vehicle at Korumburra last Tuesday, September 5.

The 21 year old Koo Wee Rup man was driving along the South Gippsland Highway towards Korumburra, a few kilometres out of the town, at 4.15pm. Police said he collided with the embank-

ment before hitting a wire safety barrier. His vehicle rolled and slid 30m away from the road. Police said the man lost control of the vehicle when he was travelling down the hill and sweeping around a right hand bend, causing him to crash on the left side of the road. The man was unharmed and taken to hospital for observation.

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PAGE 6 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Scotty Cam celebrates Capeview Cowes Mitre 10 new look store GOLD Logie award winner Scott Cam and popular host of The Block on Channel Nine was busy signing autographs for the huge crowd that attended the Capeview Cowes Mitre 10 Family Fun Day on Saturday morning.

ware stores, and he said this newly renovated Capeview Cowes Mitre 10 is as good or better than any of the stores he visited. While the jumping castle, face painting, Dulux Dog, reptile show and Cowes Primary School cake stall were big attractions, it has to be said “Scotty” Cam was the hero of the day. You couldn’t wipe the smiles from the many chilThe special celebration marked the opening of dren’s faces who delighted in having their free Mitre the renovated Cowes store and Mitre 10 Capeview 10 soccer ball autographed and a photo taken. Hardware CEO Tony Cruickshank couldn’t be hapMany children donned great work gear and compier with the impressive new look store. peted in the Best Tradies Outfit competition that was “The whole store has been completely renovatjudged by Scott Cam. ed, we have extended the trade shed and basically brought this local hardware store into the 21st century,” Mr Cruickshank said. “This huge investment in the store has ensured Capeview Cowes Mitre 10 is now well set up to Store opening fun: Baxter Vance, Cowes, Mitre 10 Capeview Hardware CEO Tony Cruick- service the local community that has grown to over shank, Flynn Dengerink, Cowes, Mitchell Caruana, Sale, celebrity The Block host Scott 10,000 and the many visitors and holidaymakers to the region well into the future.” Cam and Will Witowski, Cowes and Bob the Builder had a lot of fun at the Capeview Cowes Mr Cruickshank is just back from the USA where Mitre 10 Family Fun Day on Saturday morning. he toured many major cities and some 18 large hard-

Rubbing shoulders: The Block TV host Scott Cam was a huge hit with the big crowds and loads of children, including Joseph Wylie of Dalyston, who attended Saturday’s Capeview Cowes Mitre 10 Family Fun Day.

Korumburra the place to move to KORUMBURRA is a town of choice for people in South Gippsland Shire, with the town’s population rising by 360 between 2011 and 2016.

The Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey 2017. Look for it in your mail. Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?

Korumburra was estimated to have a resident population of 4153 at the 2016 Census, including an estimate of those missed in the Census, compared to 4153 in 2011. Leongatha’s population also increased, from 5334 in 2011 to 5735 in 2016. The statistics were revealed in the 2016 Census results for the shire. There are more older people in the shire than the Victorian average and many young parents, but generally less people aged 24 to 40 than the state average. Korumburra has many people aged 80 and over, while Mirboo North is attracting people aged 20 to 34, most likely young families, and also has more lone person and one parent households. Foster has many households occupied by single people aged 65 and over. The average of age of Leongatha residents is 47, a rise of three years in the past five years, and more couples with children are coming to Leongatha. Residents of rural areas tend to have higher incomes than town dwellers. The Census found 26.1 percent of homes in the shire were unoccupied, which is higher than the Victorian average, and reflects the high number of holiday houses in the shire. On Census night, 69 percent of homes in the holiday hotspot of Venus Bay were unoccupied. More South Gippslanders are atheists in the shire than the Australian average (38.4 percent of South Gippslanders compared to the national average of 30 percent), with Catholics just outnumbering Anglicans 4989 to 4611. South Gippsland Shire councillors received a briefing about the statistics, and how council uses them, from Glenn Capuano of id Consulting last Wednesday.

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Number crunchers: from left, South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento, Glenn Capuano of id Consulting and Cr Meg Edwards discuss the Census results for the shire and how shire will use the figures to make decisions.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 7

School wins global award By Tayla Kershaw BASS Coast Specialist School is now the home of international film stars.

The school entered its short film We Are Here in the 2017 Focus on Ability Short Film Awards and won the people’s choice category. Student Bohe and his mother travelled to Sydney recently with Drift Media’s Michael Green of Inverloch for the red carpet event. The school won $10,000 of Rebel sport equipment. A project funded by Bass Coast Shire Council as part of its Disability Action Plan, the film was about the student’s favourite places in Wonthaggi – including the parks, the wetlands, the beach, the skate park and Tank Hill – but how accessing these places could be difficult at times. Mr Green helped Bohe film parts of the documentary from his wheelchair, which gave the audience a new perspective. The students enjoyed the filming process and their roles in bringing the award winning project together.

“It was a really special project that boosted the students’ confidence. It is wonderful to see that a small school like ours can make such a difference,” teacher Caroline Sibly said. “Winning the $10,000 prize was such a small thing compared to how the project has impacted on our students and what they can do.” Mr Green was unavailable to comment before going to print, but in his speech at the awards night, said the community’s support was excellent. “This film was created by a little school with a big, big heart. With incredible support from our local council and its Disability Action Plan, we were able to spend a whole school term exploring the process of film making,” he said. “The great thing has been the community support, and the snowball effect across our region has been nothing short of amazing. “To the students, what can I say? You guys are awesome; this award is proof that you are such creative and talented artists. You are prepared to have and go and get stuck in, and we’ve only just lit the fuse. I can’t wait to see what happens next.”

Huge achievement: Bass Coast Specialist School won the people’s choice award in the recent 2017 Focus on Ability Short Film Awards. Pictured are some of the students who worked on the project, Tylah, Chloe and Luke.

Mahers Landing plans on the way By Brad Lester

Thumbs up for new bins By Tayla Kershaw BASS Coast’s three bin system has been launched with a positive response from the community.

Residents and businesses now have three bins: a green lidded green waste and organics bin, a yellow lidded recycling bin and a red lidded landfill bin. In the first four days, 96.94 tonnes of organic waste was collected, with only 740 kilograms of contamination. This is a contamination rate of 0.765 per cent. “The contamination has mostly been non-compostable single use plastic bags. We ask people to make sure they are using the caddy liners provided by council, or if they want to use a different size bag these must have the AS4736 logo (compostable bags) and be the same lime green color,” council’s manager sustainable environment Deirdre Griepsma said. Contamination is picked up at three different stages of the collection process. The removal of contamination takes time, effort and resources, decreasing the efficiency of the process. If contamination is not picked up, the compost is not usable, resulting in a waste of resources. While contamination can be an issue, removing organics from landfill has added four years to the life of the Grantville landfill. “Removing organics from landfill also reduces the greenhouse gas and leachate produced by landfill into the future. These reductions will result in an immediate reduction of EPA levies, saving the

community hundreds of thousands of dollars in the short term and potentially millions into the future,” Ms Griepsma said. “This saving benefits ratepayers as it allows more funds to be focused on services for the community.” Aileen Huitema of Wrenches Footwear in Wonthaggi has welcomed the new bins but said there was still some confusion. “It can be confusing to know what can go in the organics bin, but I think once people are used to it, it’s achievable,” she said. “It’s a good idea in the long run. It’ll make people more conscious of the environment. “As a business, it will be hard to be vigilant. We have a lot of paper in our store though, which can go into the organics bin, so it won’t be so bad. It will certainly get people thinking.” Council will continue to offer education and answer community questions about the new system. Information can be found through school and community programs, Facebook, council’s website and information packs available from council offices. The waste team has also begun home visits to those who are expressing difficulty with the new system to offer assistance, support and advice. “The low levels of contamination and few enquiries relating to how to use the new system suggests there is a strong understanding in the community,” Ms Griepsma said. “We are having another Facebook Q and A session this Thursday to help people with enquiries.” Council has begun collecting old bins and asked the community to be patient.

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Mixed reaction to Inverloch development THE Star took to Facebook to ask the community what they would like to see included as part of the development proposed for Mahers Landing.

• Cathy Egan: “As a regular boater in the area, I say bring it on. It will be great for tourism and also great for the amenities of Inverloch to be upgraded to satisfy all local and newly local boaters that will be drawn to the area”; • Jasminka Tomkinson: “It’s a pretty big area for an estate...nearly two thirds of Inverloch town itself. Be lovely to afford a property there”; • Donna Lancaster: “Concerns about the increased number of boats going through the swimming areas where families go in the inlet. We already have issues with jet skiers. There needs to be a boat ramp for people to get out somewhere along the coast but that’s not the spot”; • Robert Whitehill: “The area needs a train service to Melbourne via Wonthaggi. Adding another town to the area increases the need for one. Not going to argue about decentralisation if it takes pressure off Melbourne though”; • Rob Kohler: “Looks like the last place to launch a cat off the beach is going to disappear. Just about all the potential accesses to sea water are going to be set up for stink-boats and revenue collection. Mahers Landing is fine the way it is at present. Be careful what you wish for: queues at ramps, cars with trailers clogging the local roads, etc. Just look to Cowes and Rhyll;” • Rory MacKenzie: “I would of thought a break wall and ocean ramp would be more important than a marina in that section of water- the potential damage to part of the inlet?”; • Sue N Allan Ward: “They’ll probably have to dredge the entrance if larger boats pass through it”; and • Scott Cameron: “Bring it on. Progress is good for the area.”

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New system: from left, Aileen Huitema and Nikki Cengia of Wonthaggi’s Wrenches Footwear believe Bass Coast’s new bin system will help people become more environmentally aware.

council’s general manager of sustainable development and growth, Allison Jones. “Should council receive an application for either a THE Inverloch community can expect to developer-led rezoning or a planning permit it would have plans for a development at Mahers be assessed under the Planning and Environment Act and the Bass Coast Planning Scheme,” she said. Landing within months. South Gippsland Conservation Society president The public heard about a proposal to possibly include housing and a marina on a former farm be- Dave Sutton said the community needed to know more. tween Mahers Landing and Pound Creek recently. He said in times of climate change and rising The developer, Jason Yeap OAM, asked the public for the ideas for how the land should be seas, mangroves and saltbush would move inland, developed when he hosted the forum at RACV In- even if a levee was present. Mr Sutton said Anderson Inlet was habitat for verloch Resort. “The next steps will be for us to begin putting migratory birds and a site subject to international together some more formal plans that take all of agreements with China and Japan protecting habitat the feedback into account, to create something that for such birds. “We need to have more information,” he said. benefits the whole community. We aim to come back with plans in the next few months,” he said. “We will be taking all of the feedback into consideration to ensure the project is appropriate, sustainable and protects the environment. We have no intention to over-develop the land. This is about working with the people of Inverloch to create something that benefits the community in the long-term.” Call Capeview Bass Coast Shire Council is yet to receive a proYour local manufacturer today posal for a development at Mahers Landing, said

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PAGE 8 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;? Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Mirboo North steps up logging fight By Jessica Anstice ONE of the VicForestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; logging coupes proposed for Mirboo North abuts Lyrebird Walk.

Youth input: from left, South Gippsland Shire Council community strengthening support officer Sophie Dixon, Frances Brunton, Meagan Basarke, Nathan Gilmore, Hayden Ander, Michael Butler, Liam Lander from Ylab, Elita Hosie, Mirboo North Community Foundation executive officer Ruth Rogan, Tom Gardner from Ylab, foundation media officer Viv Williams and Liam Williams met at the Baromi Centre in Mirboo North on Wednesday to discuss a youth strategy plan.

Youth seek better transport By Jessica Anstice

YOUNG people are calling for improved transport and activities of interest in South Gippsland. These were among the ideas raised at a youth strategy forum co-hosted by South Gippsland Shire Council and Mirboo North and District Community Foundation at the Baromi Centre in Mirboo North on Wednesday. Facilitated by national network YLab, the forum was designed to ask people aged 12 and 25 to influence issues concerning them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were delighted to have the opportunity to co-host this event, as we are all about supporting and enabling local communities to come up with ways of addressing issues that

are important to them,â&#x20AC;? foundation executive officer Ruth Rogan said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With 31 percent of Mirboo Northâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population under 25, it is very important this group has a voice. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are hoping from this, young people might be inspired to apply for grants to put their ideas into action.â&#x20AC;? The forum results will help shape councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth Strategy, using principles of co-design to ensure the final strategy is relevant to young people and their experience in their own community. The next forum will be in Leongatha on Thursday, September 21 at the Council Chambers from 4pm. All young people are encouraged to attend and design solutions to their local community challenges.

Mirboo North resident and business owner Julie Parke thinks the proposal is absurd. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Overwhelmingly the reason for choosing South Gippsland is that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just so beautiful,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Money canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t buy the peace and serenity of the area around Mirboo North, but logging the forests is a sure way to ruin it.â&#x20AC;? Ms Parke said the Lyrebird Walk was iconic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lyrebirds are majestic native birds which are unique and need our protection,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As stewards of this country it is our responsibility to ensure the landscape is allowed to continue to protect native birds and animals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Strzlecki Ranges are a popular tourist attraction for domestic and overseas visitors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The tourists will stay away in droves if what they come to see is denuded for wood chips, and they are also battling the roads with heavily laden logging trucks.â&#x20AC;? VicForests, a government owned logging agency, proposes to log state forest north of Mirboo North. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Daniel Andrews, please put your foot down on this destructive madness now, before itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too late,â&#x20AC;? Ms Parke said. Many other Mirboo North residents have shared their concerns. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I strongly object to any clear felling, or any logging at all, in the Strzelecki Forest,â&#x20AC;? said Jeny Taylor, owner of Inner Journeys yoga, situated 400 metres from the proposed logging at Lyrebird Walk. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The little amount of forest we have left in this area is habitat to many native creatures, both large and small, which have less and less habitat to survive

Praise for paramedic MIRBOO North paramedic Don Gillies ASM was among the staff recognised for their service to the community at the recent Ambulance Victoria Gippsland Staff Service Awards in Morwell.

Mr Gillies received Long Service 35 years and National Medal 35 years Second Clasp awards. The team manager at Mirboo North, he has worked at the Camberwell, City, Caulfield, Dandenong, Frankston, Seaford and Mornington branches, as well as Wonthaggi for nine years. He has been at Mirboo North for seven years and was a policeman for five years when he decided to join the ambulance service after working closely alongside paramedics and feeling the ambulance service would

be better suited to his personality. Mr Gilliesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; career highlights include transporting and talking to World War One Gallipoli veterans, establishing the first Victorian ambulance Occupational Health and Safety Department in 1995, involvement in manual handling development and training, and receiving an Ambulance Service Medal on Australia Day 2016. Ambulance Victoria acting regional director Gippsland Simon Jemmett praised recipientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service to Ambulance Victoria and the communities impacted by their combined years of service over the decades. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our paramedics, employees and volunteers work tirelessly to help the Gippsland region and local communities which are in great hands with the experience and passion the recipients all share,â&#x20AC;? he said.

9 Smith Street, Leongatha 3953 Private Bag 4, Leongatha 3953 P: 5662 9200 F: 5662 3754 E: council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS *Expressions of interest to present are made by accessing Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website Public Presentation page, contact 5662 9222 for details. Wednesday 20 September Council Chambers, Leongatha 11.15am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Strategy Review: Paths and Trails Strategy (45mins) 12.30pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Audit Committee Chair Report (30mins) 1.00pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Leongatha Railway Site Transformation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Draft Master Plan (45mins) Expressions for: 2.00pm*; 7.00pm* (by COB 15/9) PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS (Council Agenda Topics only) *Expressions of interest to present are made by accessing Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website Public Presentation page, contact 5662 9222 for details. Wednesday 27 September - 10.00am (by COB 22/9) ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING *Register your questions (by COB 22/9) by accessing Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website Public Presentation page, contact 5662 9222 for details. Wednesday 27 September - Council Chambers, Leongatha - 2.00pm Please note that Council Live Streams and records its Ordinary Council Meetings, refer to the Policy on Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website for more details.

GEOGRAPHIC NAMING PROPOSAL Council is proposing to name a road in the locality of Leongatha. The location and extent of the road proposed to be named is an unnamed road traversing to the east off South Gippsland Hwy, Leongatha for approximately 355 metres. The proposed name put forward to Council is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;AVERY LANEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Further information about the name and location is available at: www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/naming

â&#x20AC;&#x153;In particular, the superb lyrebird, which has been missing from this area for many years, has only recently returned to this forest.â&#x20AC;? Ms Taylor added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Along with the wildlife, as a resident in close proximity to the planned locations I shall be constantly bombarded with both the noise of the trucks and of the felling itself, noise which travels loudly over these hills. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I moved to this area for the peace and quiet of the country with its natural wildlife sounds and for sharing the country with its natural inhabitants. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Have they no rights at all? We have so little forest left in this area and no more at all between here and the coast. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This planned logging is ill thought through and appears to be pandering to the business interests involved. I am bitterly disappointed that this is even being considered.â&#x20AC;? VicForests general manager of stakeholders and planning Lachlan Spencer said VicForests formally calls for public submissions through public advertisements once a year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year we have added a more proactive approach of letter dropping, meetings with people where they live and reaching out to local groups,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As VicForests have never been into the Mirboo North area before, we saw this as a good opportunity to engage directly with the residents. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We look forward to working together with the local Mirboo North community and developing our plans in a way that incorporates their feedback.â&#x20AC;? A meeting has been organised by the Mirboo Country Development Inc at the Mirboo North Shire Hall at 5.30pm this Thursday, September 17.

$50,000 boost for Leongatha LEONGATHA State Emergency Service will buy a rescue and storm truck after receiving a $50,000 grant from the Bank of Melbourne Neighbourhood Fund.

The purpose built truck will service the community for the next 10 to 15 years. The last funding round for 2017 is open now, closing on September 15. For more information about the Bank of Melbourne Neighbourhood Fund or to apply for Deserving recipient: Mirboo North ambu- grants of up to $50,000 in this funding round, visit lance station team leader Don Gillies (left) is bankofmelbourne.com.au/neighbourhoodfund

congratulated by Ambulance Victoria CEO Tony Walker on receiving Long Service 35 years and National Medal 35 years Second Clasp awards.

Noticeboard WORKS THIS WEEK Sealed roads maintenance: Whole Shire Tree requests: Whole Shire Zone maintenance: Korumburra, Kardella, Arawata, Strzelecki, Buffalo, Stony Creek, Dumbalk Roadside slashing: Berrys Creek, Mirboo North, Toora Streetscape works: Main Street, Foster Road and drainage upgrades: Anderson Street, Leongatha Drainage installation: Korumburra Show Grounds Gravel road resheeting: Old Koonwarra Meeniyan Road, Koonwarra, Outtrim Leongatha Road, Outtrim & Simons Lane, Leongatha South Retaining wall construction: Corner Lewis and Keane Street, Port Welshpool Road drainage and carpark construction: Tompkins Road, Meeniyan Tree removal: Gardeners Road, Foster

in.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR APPOINTMENT TO RATING STRATEGY STEERING COMMITTEE Council is calling for applications from interested

Steering Committee with representatives from a range of rate-paying stakeholders including, but not limited to, representation from the different rating categories currently in existence. These include: â&#x20AC;˘ Residential â&#x20AC;˘ Commercial â&#x20AC;˘ Industrial â&#x20AC;˘ Farm / Rural â&#x20AC;˘ Vacant Land Nominations are also encouraged from various representative organisations such as the Victorian Farmers Federation, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, tourism groups, welfare organisations and environmental groups. The group will act as an advisory group for the development of a new Rating Strategy for 2018-2022. Written applications need to be received by 5.00pm, Friday 29 September 2017. An Information Kit including the terms of reference and a nomination form is 9 Smith Street, Leongatha, by phoning Faith Page on 5662 9820 or by emailing: council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au

Pharmacy burglary arrest LEONGATHA Police arrested a man in relation to a burglary at Terry White Chemmart Pharmacy in Leongatha on August 30. The 35 year old Moonee Ponds man was staying at Leongatha North. Police said the man jemmied the front door and stole prescription medication. He was conveyed to Warragul hospital and then transferred to Latrobe Regional Hospital at Traralgon suffering effects of a suspected overdose of prescription drugs. The male was charged with burglary and theft, and will answer the charges at Korumburra Magistratesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Court.

Boozy drivers risk public safety LEONGATHA Police have been disappointed by a rise in the number of drink drivers being detected. On September 2 at 11pm, a 56 year old Koonwarra woman blew 0.06 after being detected driving through a stop sign in Anderson Street, Leongatha. She received a penalty notice. That offence came after police found three drivers blowing over the limit in a 10 hour period on August 18. A 53 year old Leongatha man blew 0.116. His licence was immediately suspended. A 39 year old Leongatha man blew 0.149. His licence was also immediately suspended. On August 19, an 18 year old Lynbrook man, on a probationary licence, blew 0.071 after being detected driving in the Korumburra Recreation Reserve. He will be summonsed to attend Korumburra Magistratesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Court.

Driver blew three times the limit A MAN will face court after being caught drink driving with a blood alcohol concentration of more than three times the legal limit. He was apprehended by police in Wonthaggi early on Friday morning with a reading of 0.160, after drinking at a local establishment. Police immediately suspended his licence and impounded his car. He will face a drink driving charge at Korumburra Magistrateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Court and be forced to pay $1165 to recover his car.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 9

Prom cruises set for 2018 By Brad Lester THE first of the new cruises to operate from Wilsons Promontory National Park will not depart until October 2018. Pennicott Wilderness Journeys of Tasmania will run the eco boat tours from Tidal River, creating 30 new jobs over five years and injecting $9.7 million into the local economy. Business owner Robert Pennicott said the world-first amphibious boats were yet to be built, but would able to be driven onto the beach and the wheels retracted when the boats enter the water. “I believe Wilsons Promontory is one of the most beautiful places in the world and I feel privileged to be able do these cruises,” he said. Cruises will take in the Prom coast south of Norman Beach, Skull Rock and other islands, and showcase dolphins and seabirds, with informative talks, during the two and a half hour to three hour journey. Cruises will run every day throughout the year apart from Christmas Day, with one cruise during quieter periods and three cruises a day during peak periods. Mr Pennicott said the boats would launch from the beach where Tidal River meets the sea, where he said boats were currently launched. “It really is a beautiful part of the world and we will make sure we look after it,” he said. Fare costs are yet to be determined but Mr Pennicott said fares would be similar to the company’s Tasmania cruises, which charge

adults $135 and children $75. Boats will be stored in an existing shed at Tidal River, to be leased from Parks Victoria. Tourism body Destination Gippsland welcomed the Victorian Government’s recent approval of the eco boat tours, and believed the cruises would benefit South Gippsland’s tourism industry, while promoting the value of Out there: Pennicott Wilderness Journeys expects to operate its first eco boat tour at Wilsons the national park. Promontory National Park in October 2018. The company will have new amphibious boats Destination Gippsland chair Steve Hibbard said, “A tour like this, operated by the highly built for the cruises. Photo: Facebook. reputable Pennicott Wilderness Journeys, will provide many long term economic, environmental and social benefits to the state. “Pennicott Wilderness Journeys have won multiple Australian Tourism Awards and has a strong history of giving back to the parks and communities they operate in. “These tours will enhance the visitor experience by offering a unique, world class opportunity for all visitors to witness the spectacular marine environment of Wilsons Promontory National Park. “This is also a positive sign that Gippsland and all of regional Victoria are open for business and it will encourage additional high quality investments in our thriving visitor economy. There are many tourism opportunities across the state we hope will be advanced on the back of this decision.” Pennicott Wilderness Journeys is an internationally recognised and multi-award winning ecotourism boat operator based in Tasmania, with more than 18 years of experience operating at Bruny Island, Port Arthur and Hobart.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

COLUMN 7

A BIG congratulations to the MDU Football Netball Club for not only hosting the Alberton Football Netball League grand final on Saturday at Meeniyan Recreation Reserve, but also to the club’s four netball teams involved. They won all flags! Despite less teams in the league, there were cars everywhere in Meeniyan and the car park full sign was up at the oval meaning, the gate will still be very good this year!

col7@thestar.com.au

latest news, and support the group’s fundraising efforts by purchasing some food and refreshments, a souvenir, or a raffle ticket. A sausage sizzle will be held on site.

Jess Anstice

Members recently undertook some minor work in the grounds, more is planned. New members are welcome to join the friends group for only $10 per adult, or $25 per family, valid

Sarah Vella

Tayla T Tayl a Kershaw aw

Brad Lester

to June 30, 2018. Find out more on facebook.com/FriendsOfAgnesFalls, or contact Kathy on 5688 1400, or kathleencw@dcsi.net.au for more information.

MEENIYAN Bowls Club would like to acknowledge both DHHS and South Gippsland Shire Council for the grants that enabled them to complete their barbecue and shelter area. “Without the grants we received we would not have been able to complete these projects,” secretary of the Meeniyan Bowls Club George Fairweather said. “I’m sure the bowlers at Meeniyan, plus all visiting bowlers, will appreciate the extra shade and comfort they will afford. “I would also like to thank the Grants Only Group at Tarwin Lower for all its assistance in obtaining these grants and all the members who volunteered on these projects.” Readers celebrate: Powlett River Primary School students brought their favourite book characters to life for this year’s Book Week event THE Gippsland Southern Health Lyrebird Hospital Auxiliary is holding a movie night fundraiser. The movie Victoria and Abdul starring Judi Dench will show at Stadium 4 Cinema on September 14 at approximately 7pm. The auxiliary’s small group of enthusiastic and energetic members work tirelessly to raise funds for the Leongatha and Korumburra hospitals and affiliated aged care facilities. Tickets are available at Insight Real Estate or on the night for $20 and $15 concession. Supper will be included.

recently. This year’s theme was Escape to Everywhere, and was an opportunity for students to explore their love of reading.

BENDIGO Bank Inverloch thanks all of its lovely customers who contributed to its bake sale on Friday, September 1. The day was a great success and raised $156 for scleroderma disease. It are now looking forward to its upcoming golf day out at Leongatha Golf Club on Friday, October 13. All funds go towards the self funded Scleroderma Victoria organisation. Edney’s Leongatha has donated a car for the hole in one champion. Enter a team of four for $200. Lunch is provided and a silent auction will be held. Make a donation now at Bendigo Bank Inverloch or register your team. Help to create awareness.

Parks galore!: from left, Fish Creek had no fewer than five members of the Park family in Fish Creek’s premiership win on Saturday. After missing out last year, eldest son of Neil and Veronica Park, Lochlan, was part of the winning team and joined his brothers Callan, Ethan and Gareth. To top this off, Bailey Harfield-Park, son of Glenn Park (Neil’s brother) was also FRIENDS of Agnes Falls (FoAF) invite you to in the victorious side.

discover, or rediscover Agnes Falls on Sunday, September 17 in conjunction with Bushcare’s Major Day Out. With all the recent rains the falls are looking great. Come along anytime between 10.30am and 4pm, and enjoy a relaxing visit and a picnic, find out the

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Many medals: well done to Abby Forrester who won not one but two premierships for MDU on Saturday - in the Under 17s and the A Grade! Abby is pictured with her proud parents Nicole and Danny.

First grand final: Scott Hillis, who works at A.W. Smith and Sons in Leongatha, officiated in his first Alberton league grand final on Saturday. Scott, seen here entering the ground, has officiated at grand finals in lower grades but this was his first senior one. It was Scott’s 299th game umpiring and he was hoping it may have been his 300th but that will now have to wait until next season. “The match panned out very well and I really enjoyed it out there with the players’ behaviour generally excellent. We didn’t hear much from the crowd either so that was a good thing,” Scott said. Scott is pictured with other field umpires Murray Lynch, left, and Kane Pepperell. Boundary umpires were Liam O’Neill, Ebony Jones, Zac Scholz and Connor Murrell, with goal umpires Matthew Wright and John Heppell.

Music springs in Wonthaggi FRESH from performing to a big crowd at the annual Newhaven College Music School Spring Concert on Saturday night at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre, the Boys Vocal Group

is now looking forward to performing at Phillip Island’s historic Trenavin Chapel in Ventnor.

The group will present a program of music for changed voices covering a variety of styles and genres, and the concert will be recorded and form

the basis of the inaugural Boys Vocal Group CD to be released later in the year. The boys have just returned from the National Male Vocal Fesitval in Brisbane where they had the opportunity to work with a number of international clinicians and they have included a couple of works from this festival into their repertoire. The concert will be followed by refreshments and afternoon tea and tickets are $25 per person. As well as the boys group, Newhaven music students had their chance to shine on the Wonthaggi stage and delighted the appreciative audience that was treated to wonderful music and songs from a range of groups including the Middle School Guitar Ensemble, trios, string ensemble, choir, girls vocal group, and bands Parallel Parking and White Picket Fence. The music students and teachers deserved the rapturous applause following 2017 spring music concert.

Singing to perfection: the talented members of Newhaven College’s Boys Vocal Group.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 11

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

OPINIONS

Our lives matter at Wooreen

I AM devastated by the proposal for a chicken factory farm overlooking beautiful and peaceful Forresters Road, Wooreen where I live, and so are my neighbours. Speaking with people who have lived near or worked at similar factory farms has confirmed my instinct that if this application is approved my life would be ruined for the sake of big business interests. South Gippsland does not need another factory farm or to set a precedent for more such approvals. Now is the time for people to stand up and be counted, by signing an objection letter available at Leongatha Health Foods and the Mirboo North Newsagency, or phoning councillors. I trust the South Gipplsand Shire councillors will pay attention to community opposition and say no to this proposal on September 27. Kath Goller, Wooreen.

Land sale concerns YOUR recent report that the Korumburra Shire offices are to be sold to IGA must raise alarm. Remember when the Korumburra saleyards were sold in a private transaction without tenders? There were no adequate conditions placed on the sale by

South Gippsland Shire Council and soon after the saleyards were sold, they were closed down, and remained an eyesore at the entrance to the town and a planning nightmare for many, many years. A lesson must be learnt and questions must be asked: 1. What is the sale price? 2. What will happen to the current IGA building? Will it be a vacant building with a vacant carpark for years to come like the Murray Goulburn was for over a decade, before Burra Foods moved in? 3. There is sufficient land next to the old shire offices to build a huge supermarket for Korumburra and to have the art gallery, library and other amenities next door that would add to the community hub. Why not leave the building in place and save ratepayers the cost of rehousing these community users? The shire offices have an important value, socially and historically in Korumburra. Alan McDonald, Bass.

Same sex marriage opposition

I’M not sure what’s been said previously in The Star pertaining to the same sex marriage issue but now we have the opportunity to vote, may I raise a few thoughts for consideration? I believe there is a big difference between how we treat the

E D I T O R I A L Footy, netball may face further upheaval THE last year has not been an easy time to be a football administrator and the problems they face don’t seem to be letting up, with the future of the Alberton Football Netball League in the spotlight. Clubs faced the ongoing challenge of finding enough players to fill all teams each week and with speculation over whether the Allies will continue to maintain a presence, league administrators are considering their options. There appear to be four obvious scenarios: retain the current Alberton structure, continue Alberton as a six club competition should the Allies fold, merge with Ellinbank and District Football League and merge with Mid Gippsland Football League. It would be a shame to see any club close as behind every club is history, a community and pride. Without a school and just a fire brigade in the Alberton West community, the Allies club bonds the people of that district. Then again, it is financially difficult to sustain a club on a district alone and with the Yarram township already supporting the Yarram and Woodside football clubs, there are only so many sponsorship dollars to go round. The conundrum is that merging with Ellinbank would mean the closest teams to each other would be Meeniyan, Nyora and Poowong, while the furthest would be Toora and Neerim South - a considerable drive of one hour and 37 minutes, according to Google Maps. That’s in addition to these communities having little social connection, with the Ellinbank league being centred around the commercial centre of Warragul. Isn’t a social connection what country footy and netball should be about? The same could be said of why should Toora be asked to play Hill End in the Mid Gippsland League. It’s a still a drive of one hour and 27 minutes, and how often do people from Toora have anything to do with Hill End now? Nevertheless Mirboo North - the closest Mid Gippsland league club to South Gippsland now – would be within a reasonable drive and so would Thorpdale. Adding another spanner to the works is the role of money in country footy today, whereby a club receiving a large bequest or other sponsorship is in a position to buy individual players or a group willing to chase the dollar and shift clubs from season to season, without feeling a sense of loyalty that has underpinned a club’s culture in the past. The result is a shallower sense of club identity and belonging, and uncertainty as to whether a club will be able to afford a playing list the following season when funds are running low. Whatever happens in the coming months, league and club committee meetings will give a clearer direction, but players, fans and administrators would no doubt like to end a season knowing everything they love about footy and netball will be back the next year.

Letters guidelines ALL letters should be kept to 400 words or less. The Star reserves the right to edit all letters for length and style. Writer’s details, including full name, address and phone number (not for publication), must be included.

Letters to the Editor

individual LGBTQI person and lawmaking. I believe this issue has the potential to affect not just the LGBTQI community but everybody. It’s not only about adult desire, but also about children’s needs and rights and the family unit. Marriage, as recognised for millennium across all cultures worldwide and recognised between two complementary opposite, male and female genders, potentially gives society stability and order. It also naturally produces human future life. It’s at this point a marriage is of civic and social interest. Children have a right to both a mum and a dad. It’s integral to their sense of origin, self-worth and identity to know who both their parents are, and fathers and mothers bring different essential aspects to parenting. It’s one thing to lose a father or mother through separation, divorce or death but to legislate same sex marriages that intentionally removes either biological parent is detrimental. Same sex couples already have every legal protection and right that de-facto couples do, such as property and custody rights and superannuation. They already have legally recognised civil unions. The only thing they don’t have is the word ‘marriage’. If same sex marriage is legalised, the freedoms of the general public to personally discriminate in their opinions and actions, as well as providing services in business according to conscience, will be put at risk. Where same sex marriage has been legalised overseas, there have been cases where bakers and florists have been taken to court, and adoption agencies have had to close because they have lost the choice to place children with heterosexual couples . Helen Neumann, Warragul, formerly of Leongatha and Toora.

Native forests need protecting

VICFORESTS is a Victorian Government owned agency which logs all our public state forests. It has a bad record in environmental protection. So does DEL-

WP (formerly DEPI) which is supposed to enforce environmental compliance with the Code of Practice for Timber Production in Victoria’s State Forests, 2014 which applies to VicForests. DELWP has never used its power to prosecute VicForests despite numerous breaches against the code. This is yet again confirmed by Friends of the Earth last Thursday - National Threatened Species Day – in their just released report Lawless Logging which examines the breaches of this regulatory framework in Victoria. A Victorian Auditor General’s Report 2013 also found DEPI was “not effectively delivering its approach to protect forest values”. It is time the Victorian Government bought its native forest logging operations under the Federal Environment Protection, Biodiversity Conservation Act from which it is currently exempt, having a very watered down Regional Forest Agreement instead. Mirboo North’s flora and fauna in the three coupes planned for logging by VicForests will not get adequate legal protection from this industry as a result. We have not had time to document the species currently in the three planned coupe areas. We do not believe VicForests or DELWP have done the necessary flora and fauna surveys either. We do know we have the only diverse genome koala population in Victoria in this local area. Will this be enough to protect us from the clear felling which is planned? Only a very few species are listed as protected for this area by VicForests – a very inadequate, narrow list. Only two percent of the Strzeleckis retain protection of their original vegetation on public land compared with the agreed 15 percent in Victoria. Much of the loss has been caused by land clearing, and by the native forest logging industry to supply timber, pulp and paper mills around its borders, since the start of white settlement. Concerted efforts by local conservation groups have failed to stop this onslaught. VicForests’ poor financial performance is documented in Price Waterhouse Cooper’s Report Rethinking Victoria’s Approach to Forestry 2016 which

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

states that native forestry “has been in decline for more than 10 years and there is no evidence to suggest this will change”. It sees it as an inefficient, costly industry which fails to deliver on economic grounds alone. In 2012, 4.1 percent of VicForests’ timber was used in burning for heat, 8.3 percent for high value items such as wood veneers, furniture while the vast majority – 87.6 percent - went to paper production/wood chips! It is time we changed direction and had a complete re-think in Victoria about how and why we log our native forests. This is an immediate threat here now but is an ongoing one for all the native animals, reptiles and flora species that depend on it for their survival. Viki Sinclair, Mirboo North.

Joy flights precedent concerns FURTHER to the vexed issue of Bass Coast Shire Council considering application number 160367, to allow joy flights from 5610 Bass highway Inverloch, I wish to raise a new issue. It relates to precedent. If council decides to allow the application then it will be obliged to allow similar applications in the future, having already given the go ahead for the current proposal. Once a precedent has been set, it will be hard to argue in law against future similar proposals. The community must be alerted to this possibility and vehemently raise its objections by writing to the council and the media. It is too late to object once the green light has been given by council. And let’s hope all councillors understand the concept of precedence. In conclusion, may I remind people that Tyabb Airport started out as a private joy flight operation. The locals have continued to object to the noise, invasion of privacy and incursions into the quality of their lives as the airport has grown and grown - it is still growing. Please make your objections known to council before it is too late. Ross Smith, Inverloch.

Domestic violence the big issue ONE hundred thousand men gave their lives To protect their mothers, children and wives. Yet not a thing has yet been done To stop domestic violence on the run. Action it will never come Till women demand something being done. Contact sport is glorified. TV coverage before 8.30pm must be denied. All violence in sport we must abort. For true sport is almost nought. Sport was sport not money sought. And tax concession should be naught. The name should be kept and a new name invented. To cover the millions those players invested. Forget about marriage equality and a republic vow. And put all our effort to kill domestic violence NOW. Les Horsfield, Thorpdale.

Leongatha needs rain LEONGATHA still needs more water to avoid the chance of water restrictions this summer. The town’s Ruby Creek water supply is 79 percent full after recent rain while other reservoirs are full. South Gippsland Water managing director Philippe du Plessis said, “The catchment still needs more rainfall over the coming weeks to stave off potential summer water restrictions for the Leongatha township.” Rainfall recorded at South Gippsland Water’s storages from September 1 to 8 was: Lance Creek 79mm, Ruby Creek 57mm, Coalition Creek 54mm, Deep Creek 44mm, Little Bass 49mm and Battery Creek 77mm.

VOXPOP! VOX

Wonthaggi Secondary College students recently completed street art near the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre. The Star asked them, “What do you enjoy about street art?”

“It’s a good thing because it brings the community together. It’s a way to get everyone involved in something.” Haylee Storer, Wonthaggi.

“I like it because it’s not set art. I feel there’s a huge freedom to it.” Gemma Williams, Wonthaggi.

“Instead of it being hidden away, I like how everyone can see it.” Sierra Brown, Wonthaggi.

“At the end of the day, street art is like any other normal art and I like my art. It’s something I’m proud of.” Tahlia Higgins, Wonthaggi.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 13

Teens brighten Wonthaggi WONTHAGGI students have used street art to express the history of the town on a laneway wall beside the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre.

A class of Wonthaggi Secondary College students and the Wonthaggi Secondary College satellite VCAL group students worked together to complete the masterpiece over five weeks. “I’ve tried by best to let the students do their thing. I think that’s very important and it’s also important the students have this opportunity for creative expression,” Wonthaggi Secondary College VCAL art teacher Tom Murray-White said. “I’ve talked to the students about art in the region and styles of art, and they’re really passionate

about making street art and contemporary art.” Mr Murray-White thanked the Hill family, that owns the wall, and said the group was always looking for new walls to paint. Bass Coast Shire Council offered the students funding for a cultural youth project. The project cost around $9000. Council’s coordinator of recreation and culture Mark Lindsay said the art had “transformed the laneway completely”. “The amount of people who have to track down that alleyway to get backstage will really value it for years to come,” he said. “For the people who use this facility what the students have done for it is pretty amazing.”

Creative art students: both Wonthaggi Secondary College students and Satellite VCAL students united to celebrate their finished work near the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre last Tuesday, September 5.

Colourful burst at Wonthaggi orchid show SOUTH Gippsland Orchid Society’s 28th annual Orchid Show was rich in beauty and colour in Wonthaggi on Friday and Saturday.

Held at the Wonthaggi Town Hall, 200 entries were submitted in a selection of categories. Although the cold had an impact on some of the usual entries this year, the display was extraordinary and show organisers were pleased with the end result. “The display is simply lovely, and our winner was very unique this year,” show marshal Julie Kilgour said. “Usually, the champion orchid goes to a big cymbidium, but this year it went to a dendrobium, which was a bit different and beautiful.” The show was open to the public on Friday and Saturday, with people showing keen interest as soon as the doors opened. As well as the main display and best blooms, highlights of the show were the stunning orchids available for purchase. These were sourced by three big orchid growers in Melbourne. Wonthaggi’s Lita Gill, Leticia Marsiglio and Enring Smith also made beautiful orchid arrangements for purchase by show goers. Most entries were local with others from PhilColourful display: from left, Wonthaggi orchid growers Leticia Marsiglio, Lita Gill and lip Island and Leongatha. Around 40 members of Award winning: Bass’ Mary Morgan won the South Gippsland Orchid Society contribute to Enring Smith admired the displays and made beautiful flower arrangements at the Wont- the show each year. best pot plant in show at Wonthaggi’s Orchid

haggi Orchid Show on Friday.

Show on Friday.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Trophy time: from left, Foster Under 13 captain Yasmin Duursma, best on court Macey Mcglead and coach Sandy Prain accept the trophy for winning the grand final against Tarwin on Saturday.

Quick grab: Foster’s goal defence Kelsey Angwin snatched the ball away from MDU’s Rachel Priestly during Saturday’s grand final. Above, Determined players: MDU A Grade centre Kaila Bentvelzen played brilliantly against Foster’s centre Keighley Starrett during the grand final on Saturday.

Left, Great player: MDU’s A Grade goaler Rachel Priestley shot her share of goals to secure a Big win: MDU Under 17 premiers from left, captain Abby Forrester, coach premiership win Mikaela Witherow and best on court Irene Thorson accepted their trophy after on Saturday. beating Foster in the grand final on Saturday. Left, Celebration time: MDU C Grade coach Natalie Rayson and captain, best on court and league best and fairest Jane Harrison accepted the trophy after winning the grand final against Fish Creek on Saturday. Right, Happy win: Fish Creek Under 15 best on court and team captain Lauren Gale and Amy Winners grin: MDU B Grade premiers from left best on court and captain Sophie Taratuta, coach Melanie coach Watkins accept Harris, captain Amanda Tipping and coach Andrea Thorson enjoyed their win against Toora on Saturday. their trophy after their win against Foster on Saturday.

Netball bonding: MDU premiers from left, Melanie Harris with daughter Ella Harris and Kasey Thorson Family celebrate: from left, Irene, Tanya and Grace Thorson celebrated the with mum Andrea Thorson played the C Grade grand final together on Saturday. Under 15 MDU premiership win together on Saturday.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 15

Demon’s take home all MDU went all the way on Saturday during the Alberton league grand final; all four teams won a premiership.

The stakes were high but the MDU A Grade girls took the game to a whole new level with a thumping 50-34 victory over the Foster Tigers in the grand final. For the first time on 40 years, MDU A Grade netball took home the trophy. Foster had snuck into the grand final with an unexpected win over Fish Creek the previous week. As predicted the game was close and intense. Coach Ebony Best was mighty in defence and superstar Rachel Priestly was a tower of strength at goal shooter but every Demon player in between did their job superbly too as MDU conquered the game. MDU was undefeated throughout the season but games between Fish Creek and Foster had been hard fought. MDU started confidently and was quickly in a commanding position, nine goals in front. Foster, somehow clawed its way back into the game and were down by five by the end of the first quarter. The Foster defence was tireless taking many intercepts when the opportunity afforded it. But the MDU goalers were relentless. Foster made changes on court and from the bench at half time in an attempt to lessen the 36 to 25 blowout. Double teaming on the goal shooter the MDU goal attack had the opportunity to show how accurate she was. Foster on the other hand, under pressure, missed too many goals. MDU and Toora battled it out in the B Grade grand final; both teams had crowds sitting on the edge of their seats throughout the game, especially at the end of the last quarter. Goals were shot one after another at both ends in the last five minutes of the game, scores were up and down. Goal attack Sophie Taratuta shot the last goal for MDU, resulting in a very close win, MDU 41 to Toora 40. This game proved to be the highlight game of the day. It was intense from the beginning. MDU wanted the win desperately. Toora was just as desperate but seemed to sense an advantage from the beginning. It was an erratic start for both teams, but Toora settled and was up 21 to 16 at half time. Toora’s goalers were teaming well and its defenders were over everything. At three quarter time, Toora was up, 33 to 28. One sensed a Toora win but MDU

had other ideas. In the last quarter, MDU threw everything at Toora that seemed to forget it had to keep fighting. Bad passes and a nonchalant approach from Toora saw MDU claw its way back into the game. A nail biting final few minutes saw MDU miraculously seal the win, by the narrowest of margins. MDU’s C Grade team proved to be strong in its game against Fish Creek, scoring 45 to Fish Creek’s 38. Mikaela Witherow was quick on the court, dodging Fishy opponents like champs. Both teams shot very accurately in the first quarter. At half time, neither team was admitting defeat. MDU’s Jane Harrison fed beautifully into her goal circle. MDU’s Sophie Thomas was a big presence on court. MDU’s Under 17’s also took home a win against their opponent Foster. MDU had not been defeated all season and was reputedly going to win easily. The intensity was there from the beginning. Foster brought its A game to the day throwing everything at MDU from the first whistle. MDU had to fight for everything. Foster got within three goals of MDU during the third quarter. Despite the increased intensity and obvious nervousness from the MDU players and spectators, MDU regrouped and drew away in the end to win 38 to 27. The competition between Fish Creek and Foster Under 15 was strong, Fish Creek winning with a score of 33 to Foster’s 24. Fish Creek settled early and took a commanding lead from the start. Foster made many changes to its line up at half time in an attempt to get back into the game. Foster beat Tarwin in the Under 13 grand final by seven goals. The score was 23 to 16. The young teams were a little overcome by the occasion and the large crowd that had come to support them. The teams had experienced some very tight tussles throughout the season and the grand final was no exception. “We have done it tough through the changes that were inflicted on us at the beginning of the season, but we have come through strong and together,” Alberton League netball coordinator Lynn Whelan said. “Congratulations also to MDU that organised the grand final day with efficiency and expertise.”

Right, B Grade: MDU premiers back from left, team manager Darlene Jones, best on court and captain Sophie Taratuta, Jasmin Mackie, Jacinta Tipping, Amanda Calder, Tyla Riley, Laura Nicholas and front from left, coach Melanie Harris, Kasey Thorson, coach Andrea Thorson, Ella Harris and Sheree Livingstone.

Right, C Grade: premiers MDU back from left, coach Natalie Rayson, Elly Egan, Sophie Thomas, Brooke Newton, Wendy McEachern, Sam Rayson, Poppy Trewin and front from left, Grace Thorson, Brooke Jones, Mikaela Witherow, Jane Harrison and Melanie Herber.

Right, Under 17: MDU Under 17 premiers back from left, coach Mikaela Witherow, Kayla Redpath, Jasmin Mackie, Caysie Clark, Kasey Thorson, Holly McEachern and front from left, Grace Thorson, Elly Jones, captain Abby Forrester, best on court Irene Thorson and Ella Harris.

Right, Under 15: Fish Creek Under 15 premiers back from left, Mia Price, Chloe Wilson, Lauren Gale, Sharlie Hams, front from left, Lara Stefani, Tanya Turney, Amity Sands-Morris, Karla Williams, Leila Tracey, and coach Amy Watkins.

Right, Under 13: premiers Foster back from left, coach Sandy Prain, Meg Rathjen, Macey Mcglead, Tayla Hams, Amber Van Dyke, Matilda Gee, Maddi Boyd, Stella Brewer. Front from left, Jack Rathjen, Yasmin Duursma, Ebony Van Dyke, Sophie Prain and Darby Hoskins. A Grade: MDU premiers back from left, Rachel Priestley, Jasmin Mackie, Jasmin Friend, Ebony Best, Kate Lafferty and front from left, Abby Forrester, Kaila Bentvelzen, Kayla Redpath, Kasey Thorson and Irene Thorson.

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Entertaining group: Leongatha Primary School students back row, from left, Leila, Ruby, Looking the part: from left, Mitchell, Clay, Bella, Lily, Jocao and Jacob from Leongatha Anika and Hamish, and front row, from left, Aaron, Georgia and Max had a blast dressed in Primary School celebrated Book Week in their favourite character costumes on Friday. costumes of their favourite book character on Friday.

Book characters fill school yard LEONGATHA Primary School celebrated Literacy and Numeracy Week with a read aloud session on Wednesday, where parents, grandparents and friends came to their chil-

dren’s classroom and listened to them read. On Friday, staff and students dressed up as book characters and had a lot of fun at assembly parading their costumes, to mark Book Week.

Left, Familiar characters: back, from left, Hugh, Sienna, Eden and Skye, and front, from left, Ruby, Georgia and Tara from Leongatha Primary School dressed up as their favourite book characters to celebrate Book Week on Friday. Right, Creative costumes: Leongatha Primary School students, back, from left, Taine, Fletcher and Caelan and front, from left, Lucy, Lacey and Ben dressed as characters for Book Week last Friday.

Firies prove their fitness FIREFIGHTERS from Leongatha, Ruby and Inverloch fire brigades competed in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb recently.

Practical, creative: the team at Poletti Custom Kitchens and Cabinets in Inverloch pride themselves on making customers’ dreams become a reality. From left, Nate Poletti, Paul Poletti, office manager Ross Beauglehall, Zac Poletti and Carla Poletti.

Poletti builds custom cabinetry THE team at Poletti Custom Kitchens and Cabinets – the only Inverlochbased cabinet-makers – pride themselves on quality materials, exceptional customer service, as well as first class design and workmanship. Now open in Inverloch’s industrial estate, the business is run by Inverloch locals Paul and Carla Poletti. Paul brings 17 years of experience in the field locally, and the business specialises in custom design, build and installation of kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, studies, offices, storage solutions, al fresco kitchens, custom furniture, wardrobes, shop fits, and all other aspects of cabinetry and joinery. “I’m into making people’s ideas become a reality. We’re happy to do any of the basic works through to the upper level,” Paul said.

If space is limited in your home or business, Poletti Custom Kitchens and Cabinets can create a design that will make the most of the space available to give maximum storage. Projects can be designed to meet any budget, using materials ranging from more affordable to high end. Poletti Custom Kitchens and Cabinets works with such quality suppliers as Laminex, Polytec, Caeserstone, Nikpol and Variform. As well as servicing South Gippsland, Poletti Custom Kitchens and Cabinets will travel as far as Melbourne and broader Gippsland. Poletti Custom Kitchens and Cabinets is located at Factory 2, 60 Dixon Street, Inverloch. Phone 0418 240 219. The factory is open 7am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and the office and showroom is open 8am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, or at other times, including Saturdays, by appointment.

They climbed 478 steps – 28 fights – at Crown Metropol Hotel wearing 25kg of structural firefighting and breathing apparatus equipment. The event raised awareness of depression, post traumatic stress disorder and suicide among emergency services personnel, and to also collect funds for the mental health organisation Black Dog Institute. The event simulated the actions of a firefighter entering a burning high rise building and attracted participants from across Australia and the world. Ruby CFA was represented by Michael Guest, Aaron Perks and Darren Hardacre and raised $2103. “This event was extremely hard both physically and mentally,” Mr Guest, brigade captain, said. “It is a cause that is very close to our heart as emergency service volunteers.” Firefighter Mr Hardacre said the community’s support had been fantastic. “Out in the street or down at Voyage Fitness in Leongatha, lots of people have been stopping us and congratulating us on the effort,” he said. “It has been a great experience to be part of. Hopefully I will be able to take part in next year’s event as well.” Mr Guest completed the climb in 7.15 minutes and placed 60th and 268th out of 458 in the donned and started category. Lieutenant Mr Perks completed it in 6.01 minutes and came 38th and 161st out of 458 in the donned and started category. Mr Hardacre at 6.04 minutes was 41st and 163 out of 458 in the donned and started category. All three men participated in the 40 to 49 year age group, contested by 94 climbers.

Team Ruby was 31 out of 62 teams. Leongatha CFA was represented by firefighters Paul Pitkethly, Leigh Foster, Dean Pitts, Morgan Gale, Ben Patterson and Michael Biggs. Mr Patterson competed in the 18-39 year category finishing the climb in 5.01 minutes. Mr Foster competed in the 18-39 year category, finishing in 8.15 minutes. Mr Biggs also competed in the 18-39 year category, finishing in 10.33 minutes. Mr Pitkethly competed in the 50 year plus category and finished in 8.15 minutes. Overall Leongatha CFA team placed 48th. Members were sent out from the start point at 20 second intervals, with a short run to the start of the stairs. The stairs went up a stair well and on every few floors were welfare people to help anyone struggling. When the men reached the top and crossed the finish line, support people helped remove their breathing apparatus and turnout jacket. Climbers had their pulse and oxygen levels monitored to make sure they were recovering, along with lots of water and fruit for rehydration and recovery. Inverloch was represented by first lieutenant Steve Forrest and firefighter Nathan Castle who recorded impressive times. Mr Forrest completed the event in five minutes and 10 seconds while Mr Castle finished after five minutes and 48 seconds – an impressive effort considering he ran the 5km Inverloch parkrun the morning of the stair climb. The fastest time on the day was three minutes and 35 seconds. “I was pretty quick up the first flight of stairs and the burn just started out in the legs and I just had to take it one step at a time,” Mr Forrest said. “Just to get up without stopping was my goal

Only way is up: Inverloch CFA’s Nathan Castle (left) and Steve Forrest successfully completed the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb recently. and I managed to do that.” The pair was to be accompanied by fellow Inverloch firefighters Ash McDermott, Liam McCall and Jarrod Frogley but they withdrew. “It’s all in aid of mental health and maintaining some sort of exercise helps clear the mind,” Mr Forrest said. “It was good to meet people from around Australia and the world who all came together to raise money and awareness of mental health and depression.” People wishing to sponsor firefighters can do so online during September at www. firefighterclimb.org.au and searching for the relevant station. The Ruby CFA climbers posted a video on their Facebook page.

Good cause: Ruby CFA members from left, Aaron Perks, Stairs accomplished: from left, Leongatha CFA members Ben PatterDarren Hardacre and Michael Guest after completing the son, Leigh Foster, Dean Pitts, Paul Pitkethly, Michael Biggs and Mor2017 Melbourne fire fighters stair climb. gan Gale all finished the 2017 Melbourne FireFighters Stair Climb.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 17

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Embroiderers celebrate 30 years THIRTY years of needle and thread work was celebrated during the Leongatha Daffodil Festival recently. The Leongatha Country Group – a branch of the Embroiderers Guild Victoria – showcased a stunning display at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Leongatha, to mark the milestone anniversary.

The display featured 500 individual entries from the 35 members of the group. Some of the highlights included the challenge pieces and the selection of Christmas ornaments. Members were challenged to incorporate the number 30 into their work in some way, which were then judged by popular vote. The exhibition was well attended with more than 500 people enjoyed the amazing handi-

work between Thursday and Saturday. “It went extremely well; it was a big day with plenty of interest,” Leongatha branch president Anne Kenny said. “We were very pleased with the response from the public and I have received some wonderful feedback. I have been told that, not only was the display amazing, but everyone was smiling and enjoying the exhibition.”

The Leongatha Country Group was a small gathering 30 years ago, but interest continued to grow until it was officially recognised as part of the Embroiderers Guild Victoria. The exhibition gave an insight into the group’s wonderful accomplishments. It meets every second Tuesday of the month, and holds a guidance group every third Thursday of the month in Cape Paterson.

Daffodils delight in Leongatha THE 61st annual Leongatha Daffodil and Floral Show featured a stunning display of the best blooms in the district recently.

Held at Leongatha Memorial Hall, the show attracted a steady crowd and in addition to daffodils, included a stunning camellia display and photography display

Results

Class A - Daffodils: Champion daffodil: Maureen Masterman. RHSV SF Mann Perpetual Daffodil Cup, Glenice Griggs. Percival William Dyson Perpetual Memorial Trophy, Glenice Griggs. Allen Smith Memorial Trophy, Glenice Griggs. Colin Drewitt Jnr Memorial Trophy, Glenice Griggs. Best bloom open, Glenice Griggs; aggregate open, Sue Thompson; best bloom amateur, Maureen Masterman; aggregate amateur, Glenice Griggs; LHS Perpetual Shield - best bloom LHS Beautiful work: Korumburra South’s Diane Garner (front) and Inverloch’s Erin Cosgriff, members, Heather Sullivan; aggregate - LHS Sue Smith, Colleen Fitzgerald and Jenny Potten admired the embroidery work on display at members - Colin Drewitt Jnr Memorial Trophy, St Andrew’s Uniting Church during the Daffodil Festival. Arie Bos; best bloom - novice, Colin Baird; ag-

gregate - novice, Colin Baird; best bloom nonopen, Maureen Masterman; RHSV S.S. McKay Silver Medal, Glenice Griggs. Class B - Other Bulbs: Best exhibit, Josie Rutherford; aggregate - Alf Ladson Trophy, Glenice Griggs. Class C - Cut Flowers: Trophy - best exhibit, Shirley Turton; aggregate, Glenice Griggs. Class D - Camellias: Best exhibit - open, Margaret Monk; best bloom - named varieties, Ashleigh Michael; best bloom - novice, Joanne Lester; aggregate, Paul Ludwig; best camellia A.W. Jessep Medal, Margaret Monk. Class E - Cut Shrubs & Trees: RHSV Trophy - best exhibit, Beat Ollington; aggregate, Glenice Griggs. Class EA - Australian Plants: Best exhibit, Shirley Turton; aggregate, Jim Park; Kuranga encouragement award, Diane Garner. Class F - Floral Art: Championship ribbon and trophy, Dawn Green; aggregate, Heather Bruce; floral art group encouragement award, Fran Grylls. Class G - Pot Plants: Best exhibit, Margaret Stokes; aggregate, Josie Rutherford. Class H - School Students: Best exhibit, Gracie Neale; aggregate, Harrison Witherow. Class I - Fruit & Vegetables: Best exhibit, Glenice Griggs; aggregate, Glenice Griggs. Class J - Photography: Best exhibit, Jim Park; aggregate, Jenny Chitty. Most successful exhibitor in show: Glenice Griggs. Shop windows: 1st Leongatha Childcare Centre, 2nd RSL, 3rd Hair Bairs. Highly Commended: Leongatha Primary School, The Great Southern Star, Parks and Gardens (judges said the town looked wonderful).

Green thumbs: Leongatha’s Jackson and Harrison Witherow won second and first prize respectively for their decorated boots at the Leongatha Daffodil and Floral Show.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 19

Teens rush to help Corner Inlet TEENAGERS have joined a campaign to help Corner Inlet.

Parks Victoria joined with West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority, Birdlife Australia and Victorian Fisheries Authority to deliver the Broadening Horizons project to Year 8 students at Foster Secondary College recently. The Broadening Horizons program presents students with real world problems and encourages them to complete their senior schooling years and expose them to industries and professions they may not have considered. The 2018 project will involve students focusing on the Corner Inlet Marine and Coastal Park. Students will be introduced to the environmental importance of the park and the threats facing Corner Inlet through specialist talks and field investigations. They will undertake a project to research and develop a solution to one of the threats facing Corner Inlet.

The solutions will be presented to Parks Victoria staff, students, teachers and parents at the end of the year. Parks Victoria ranger education and interpretation, Kelly Virgona, said, “This program is just as rewarding for Parks Victoria staff, as it is for the students. Hopefully, as a result of participating in this program we are able to inspire the next generation to consider a career in environmental management.” West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority waterways project officer Tanya Cowell said Corner Inlet was a significant place. “It’s fantastic to be working with local students to find solutions to some of the real threats facing Corner Inlet,” she said. “We work with the Corner Inlet Partner Group to address key threats across the Corner Inlet catchment. It is great to have the opportunity to engage the next generation on these issues.” For more information call 13 1963 or visit Out, about: Foster Secondary College students Ema (left) and David (right) with Parks www.parks.vic.gov.au

Projects take shape MAJOR projects for South Gippsland driven by the community continue to progress. South Gippsland Shire Council asked the public for ideas to allocate funding towards as part of council’s Community Capital Works Allocation Project. Council sought ideas for Mirboo North, Foster, Venus Bay and Korumburra. At Mirboo North, further community meetings on the Baromi Park Masterplan have been undertaken and a consultant is to be engaged soon. Couper Street footpath has been added to 2017-18 Footpath Extension Program for which a contract is about to be awarded. At Foster, the water re-use project is being undertaken by South Gippsland Water with council

support. Design is currently underway with the project expected be tendered in September and works completed by early 2018. At Venus Bay, officers are working with the community to determine the scope of both the environment project and skate park. The money allocated to Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club is being held in a reserve. A public meeting was held on August 21 to form a project working group to develop and implement the environment related projects for Venus Bay. At Korumburra, officers are working with the committees of management for the recreation centre and recreation reserve, with design for the car park at the recreation centre currently underway. Council is seeking more funding for the skate park from Sport and Recreation Victoria.

Victoria ranger education and interpretation Kelly Virgona after watching and counting birds at Duck Point, Yanakie.

Teens to tackle cyberbulling SOUTH Gippsland students will experience Project Rockit’s Dot Com Forum this Friday, September 15 at Mesley Hall, Leongatha.

The Dot Com Forum will encourage students to dive deep into four hours of strengths-based, interactive content exploring cyberbullying and social leadership which will help students gain a better understanding of their impact online. South Gippsland Shire Council is proud to host the forum, ensuring young people in the region can build skills to deal with cyberbullying. During the forum students will gain an understanding of the impact of cyberbullying and the concept of digital citizenship. The forum aims to give young people an opportunity to: reflect on the role they play in cyberbullying situations online, share their experiences with cyberbullying and become empowered to tackle future incidences together, un-

derstand any previous bystander behaviours in cyberbullying situations, develop empathy for people experiencing cyberbullying, and develop strategies for standing up to cyberbullying and protective/proactive behaviours. Council’s community strengthening support officer Sophie Dixon said, “All the feedback we have heard about the Dot Com Forum and Project Rockit has been positive and young people who have previously attended a forum have often said it is an unforgettable experience. “This is a fantastic opportunity to build a supportive environment against cyberbullying and starts the conversation for students who may have experienced cyberbullying but haven’t had the strategies to deal with the situation. “South Gippsland is extremely lucky to have Project Rockit visit our region and we are certain the 300 Year nine students attending will be far from disappointed.”

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

vicroads.vic.gov.au

South Gippsland Hwy Leongatha to Meeniyan Contact the project team & have your say. To support a future where the likelihood & severity of road crashes is reduced, we’re working to improve road safety on South Gippsland Highway from Leongatha to Meeniyan. Your views, ideas and feedback are invited. To have your say, obtain information or ask a question, please call or email us: Call: 0459 861 176 Email: engage.ssrip@roads.vic.gov.au Web: vicroads.vic.gov.au (search planning & projects)

Our mayor the fashionista MAYORS have started a new fashion trend by wearing t-shirts over business shirts to promote Gippsland.

The t-shirts are emblazoned with the slogan ‘Proud Gippslandian’ and among the mayors to sport the new look was South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento. He was among the mayors to meet members of the Gippsland Community Leadership Program (GCLP) at the Gippsland Local Government Network (GLGN) recently. GLGN is an alliance of the six Gippsland councils and represents the collective interests of the region, working cooperatively on issues and projects of mutual interest and benefit to Gippsland. The alliance was formed to progress the development of Gippsland and to advocate to the State and Federal governments on behalf of the entire region, which makes up more than a third of rural and regional Victoria. The Proud Gippslandian T-shirts are a collabo-

Wearing their pride: Gippsland mayors proudly don their ‘Proud Gippslandian’ t-shirts over their business shirts. From left, South Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Ray Argento, Baw Baw Shire Council mayor Cr Joe Gauci, Gippsland Community Leadership Program’s Sallie Jones and James Griffiths, Wellington Shire Council mayor Cr Carolyn Crossley and East Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Joe Rettino. ration between leadership program participants Sallie Jones, Shilo Wilson, Vanessa McLeod, James Griffiths and Ross McWhirter and local organisations, Gippslandia and Straight and Arrow.

The project aims is to raise the profile of the region, and provide an avenue for Gippslanders and Gippslandians to demonstrate their pride for the region.

Gambling harm starts early A CAMPAIGN, Harm from gambling starts earlier than you think, will target people experiencing or at-risk of harm from gambling and help them to be on the lookout for early signs of risky gambling behaviour.

fy early signs of gambling harm and take action to prevent it and ward off further severe gambling problems.” Signs of gambling harm can include reduced savings or spending on recreational activities and then get more advanced, such as getting behind on electricity or gas bills, or even a notice to evict. The campaign is supported by online resources at betcheck. vic.gov.au which includes online tools, with information about harm for people who gamble, their families and friends. It also includes an interactive quiz that enables people to reflect on their gambling and directs them to information about keeping their

betting in check, or additional help and support if they need it. Ms Glanville added, “Through the Harm from gambling starts earlier than you think campaign we are reaching out to people who may be gambling in a risky way and helping them identify the many different ways people can be harmed by gambling. “When we can intervene early to prevent harm from gambling, it’s good for the individual, their family and the community.” For further information visit betcheck.vic.gov.au To view the online resources and interactive quiz, go to https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NQS5SdJyvgs

Louise Glanville, CEO of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, said the campaign focuses on moderate risk gamblers, as research has identified they do not respond to traditional messages aimed at those experiencing more severe issues. “The campaign is designed to help those experiencing or at-risk of harm from gambling recognise the early signs of harm and take action to address their gambling behaviour,” she said. “Our 2016 study, Assessing gambling related harm in Victoria: a public health perspective, identified many different types of gambling harm and showed the overwhelming majority of people who experience harm are not those experiencing severe harm, but fall into the low or moderate risk categories. “Harm from gambling can cause a variety of issues, including health problems, emotional distress, relationship difficulties, financial burdens, as well as negatively impacting work performance. “The harm from gambling starts earlier than you think campaign aims to provide people Louise Glanville: CEO of the Victorian Responsible Gamwith the tools they need to identi- bling Foundation.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 21

Hospital to tackle violence Lennie Gwyther statue to be unveiled THE South Gippsland community has worked tirelessly over the last 18 months to raise money for a life sized bronze statue of Lennie Gwyther sitting on his pony Ginger Mick.

The statue has been completed and will be unveiled by Lennie’s daughter, granddaughter and siblings at an event commencing at 2pm on Saturday, October 14, in Centenary Park, Leongatha. Some of Lennie’s relatives are travelling halfway across the country to be present. Not everyone knows the story of nine year old Lennie and his epic ride to the opening of the Sydney Harbour bridge in 1932. On the morning of February 3, 1932, Lennie Gwyther set out on his pony Ginger Mick from his farm home Flers at Leongatha South to ride 1000 kilometres to Sydney to be present at the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Neither weather nor bushfires dampened Lennie’s resolution to be present at the opening ceremony of Sydney Harbour Bridge (then the longest single span bridge in the world). Lennie’s parents, Captain Leo and Clare Gwyther, had allowed Lennie to make this monumental journey as a reward for his work running the family farm for some months when Leo was incapacitated due to a major work accident. Lennie carried a letter from the Woorayl Shire president to the lord mayor of Sydney. When passing through Canberra, Prime Minister Joseph Lyons, him-

self a Tasmanian farmer, shook Lennie’s hand and wished him well. News of boy and pony preceded them until all of Australia could read of their progress. Even the London Times recorded the determination of Lennie to follow his dream. Stirred by the courage of this nine year old lad, people were moved to come to road sides to wave and wish him “Godspeed”. Honoured by an invitation to partake in the official opening parade, Lennie must have wondered why all the fuss, being a quiet, retiring youngster. More than $50,000 was raised to pay for the statue to be created and installed in Leongatha. The Federal Government provided $11,500 from its Building Stronger Communities Projects fund, South Gippsland Shire Council added $10,000 from the Community Grants fund and the community through direct donations and fundraising events raised more than $30,000 needed to complete the project. The Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry provided project management and auspice and many other local groups and individuals contributed to the planning and fundraising aspects. Former councillor and mayor Bob Newton championed the project from the beginning right through to arrival of the statue in Leongatha and members of the Gwyther family have been actively involved in helping bring this project to realisation from the start. For more information please contact Peter Watchorn of Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry on email pwatchorn@bigpond.com or mobile 0438 622 084.

BASS Coast Health (BCH) will soon be adding a Behavioural Assessment Room to its Emergency Department following its successful submission for funding to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The Minister for Health announced the funding to establish Behavioural Assessment Rooms in highrisk hospital emergency departments. Part of a $40 million suite of actions underway by DHHS to support better prevention and management of occupational violence and aggression against healthcare workers, BCH is one of 16 Victorian hospitals to receive this funding. BCH reported 34 occupational violence-related incidents occurred in its emergency department in the last financial year. DHHS estimates that up to 95 percent of healthcare workers have experienced physical attacks or verbal attacks while simply doing their job caring for others and saving lives. The funding of the Behavioural Assessment Rooms is part of the Victorian Government’s campaign against occupational

Safe haven: Bass Coast Health emergency department manager Cath Jones and receptionist Mary Taylor are excited after the Wonthaggi Hospital received funding to build a Behavioural Assessment Room in the department. violence to remind the community, health workers and paramedics that violence and aggression are not tolerated or accepted as ‘part of the job’. Behavioural Assessment Rooms are purposedesigned rooms aimed to provide a safe place to assess and manage emergency department patients who

exhibit aggression or violence, and place themselves or others at risk of harm. The rooms have been shown to reduce the risk of injury to patients and staff and reduce distress to other patients and visitors within emergency departments. BCH CEO Jan Child was thrilled with the news, saying, “The new Behav-

ioural Assessment Room will provide a safer environment for BCH’s staff. This is another step towards BCH’s commitment to improving quality and safe”. BCH will work closely with DHHS to ensure the room meets best practice requirements. Construction is expected to commence in the near future.

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Forums to shape TAFE’s future FEDERATION Training will hold a forum in Leongatha to help shape a bright future for the region’s own TAFE.

Seven community forums will be held at venues throughout Gippsland, and will be open to any member of the public. The Leongatha forum will be held from 6pm to 8pm on Thursday, October 12 at the Wildflower cafe at the Leongatha campus of Federation Training in Nerrena Road. “Federation Training is an integral part of Gippsland,” board chair Des Powell said. “It has a vision to be a leader in education and training, partnering with communities and industry to build a socially vibrant, economically strong Gippsland. “These community engagement sessions, which Backing youth: from left, celebrating funding for the Youth Engagement Project for Fos- will run for around two hours, will provide us with ter were Wendy Major, executive officer of South Gippsland and Bass Coast Local Learn- information and insights into the views of each ing and Employment Network, Amy Rogers, Bush Link Mobile Children’s Network, Marg community. The outcomes will provide Federation

Training with ‘themes’ the community feel strongly about, to be incorporated into the Institute’s new strategic plan. We want to shape the future of Federation Training together.” Mr Powell said the forums would provide an opportunity for locals – from current and future students, their families and other interested members of the community – to have their say on what they are looking for from Gippsland’s own TAFE. At the same time, Federation Training will consult separately with business owners, schools and industry groups to better understand the particular needs of these groups. Following the community forums, Federation Training’s board will develop the next phase of its strategic plan to be presented to the Victorian Government by the end of November 2017, for implementation in 2018. Other forums will be held at Traralgon, Morwell, Moe, Warragul, Bairnsdale and Sale.

O’Donnell, Careers and Pathways, Bronwyn Clifton, student wellbeing leader at Foster Secondary College, Luke Haustorfer, principal of Toora Primary School, Louisa Vale, Youth Engagement Project education enabler, Sophie Dixon, South Gippsland Shire Council community strengthening support officer, Sue Burke, Youth Engagement Project community engagement leader, psychologist Rose Zohs and Rebecca Matthews, Manna Gum Community House community development coordinator.

Doors to open for Foster youth FOSTER’S Manna Gum Community House has received a grant for a Youth Engagement Project.

The project steering group met for the first time in Foster last Thursday to discuss the existing youth services in the area and how to reach out to local young people who may benefit from this project. The project aims to engage with young people in the local district and develop innovative, new education programs to support pathways to further education and employment. The grant was issued by the Adult, Community and Further Education (ACFE) Board’s Capacity and Innovation Fund. The funding enables Manna Gum Community House to employ two people for 12 months: community engagement leader Susan Burke and community education teacher Louisa Vale. Ms Burke has worked with young people in the corporate, arts, education and community sectors for many years. Previously, as the School Focused Youth Service coordinator in Shepparton, she collaborated with others to develop many innovative projects. Diverse activities assisted vulnerable young people to overcome barriers and re-engage with communities and learning. She is looking forward to working with the Corner Inlet community to enhance future directions for young people. Ms Vale is already a teacher at Manna Gum Community House and delivers the free Training and Information Pathways Service. She has worked extensively with young people

through Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning programs in the past, as well as working as a volunteer with outdoor festivals and events. She is an experienced community education teacher with a Masters in Adult Education, and in 2006 she was awarded Adult and Community Further Education Teacher of the Year. “We have a great team working on this project and we are excited about the prospect of developing new and innovative programs to assist young people in our local area,” said Rebecca Matthews, Manna Gum Community House community development coordinator. “We are very lucky in Victoria to have the funding to deliver pre-accredited education, which provides valuable support for people facing barriers to further education or employment. “Barriers facing our young people include access to transport, services and digital technologies. We are actively engaging with youth services such as the Youth Assist Clinic in Foster to provide the necessary wrap around support for the young people we engage with. “We will form focus groups with young people in the area, and ask them what they want for their future. Young people will assist with the co-design of our new programs. “The program design will also be informed by areas of industry skills shortage that the ACFE Regional Office have identified for Gippsland such as hospitality, health and IT.” The project will conclude in July 2018. For Youth Engagement Project enquiries, please email sueburke@dcsi.net.au

Celebrating reading: from left, Shyla Jogi, Shanae Riley, Jade Anderson and Lani Sutherland dressed as Doctor Seuss characters for Book Week at Wonthaggi Secondary College.

Students dress up for Book Week WONTHAGGI Secondary College students and staff embraced the spirit of Book Week dress up day recently and created imaginative book character outfits.

At lunchtime, students were entertained by the magical performance of Year 8 singing duo Jess Geyer and Jorja Holmes. A parade of dress- up characters followed, with lots of prizes awarded. This key date on the WSC Dudley calendar celebrates the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book Week, which presents Australia’s most exciting children’s books published the previous year. “English teachers and library staff are constantly encouraging and challenging students to be better readers via regular class visits to the library, quiet reading time in English classes and visits from authors,” teacher and librarian Joyce Asa Leausa said.

“Staff promote reading, not only to improve academic success, but also to nurture a love of reading; as a pastime students will ‘choose’ in their leisure time. “Reading can be that ‘mindfulness’ activity that allows students a means of escape in a busy schedule. Essentially, though, our dress up day is to remind everyone that reading can be fun.”

Familiar characters: from left, Liam Suttie and Tristan Damman dressed as book favourites for Wonthaggi Secondary College’s Book Week celebration.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 23

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

IGA cares for planet THE Michaels SUPA IGA Group is serious about doing the right

thing by the environment and future generations.

Making a difference: solar panels have been installed on the rooftop of Michael’s SUPA IGA’s Leongatha store to reduce carbon emissions.

That’s why the group has partnered with Committed Solar, that shares the same vision as IGA of renewable energy and a greener planet. Michaels SUPA IGA Group has decided to heavily invest and install a rooftop 200KW solar system at its Leongatha store, taking a massive step in reducing the carbon footprint of the supermarket by 313 metric tons of CO2 – equivalent to the emissions produced by 66 cars in one year. “We have collected some data with the help of sources from the Department of Environment and some other independent agencies that take into consideration the emissions factor of Victo-

ria,” owner/director Michael Lorenz said. “We have prepared a snapshot of what this solar system will do in terms of saving the environment and carbon emissions, at the same time mitigating our business from the massive 50 percent increases in electricity prices we have had to endure since the closure of the Hazelwood power plant.” Michaels SUPA IGA Group has also converted all its sites - Leongatha, Korumburra and Highway Liquor in Leongatha - to 90 percent LED lighting throughout the main shopping areas, again to further the reduction in the group’s carbon foot print.

Stepping up safety in school zones SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council’s local laws officers are stepping up parking patrols in school zones. When vehicles are obstructing the line of sight or blocking the road space tragedies can occur, especially when there are small children who can be difficult to see. When picking up or dropping off your children it is important to remember to: • stick to the 40km/h speed limit; • check parking signs carefully near schools; • be aware of any school buses; • try to leave home early to avoid arriving at the busiest times; and • school zones often have stricter parking rules. The type of parking re-

striction and the times that it applies will usually be on the sign. A few of the common parking restrictions in school zones include: No Stopping Zones where you must not stop your vehicle for any period of time, and No Parking Zones where you must not leave your vehicle parked or unattended for more than two minutes. School crossings where you must observe the directions of the crossing guard supervisor and ensure your vehicle does not stop or park within 20 metres of the approach or 10m of the departure side of any school crossing. Do not double park alongside a car that is already parked at the side of the road.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017 - PAGE 25

Landcare passion wins Kathleen a state award A VENUS Bay woman is changing the way the Landcare story is being told.

Kathleen Brack, the regional Landcare program officer for the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority for just three years, has created new messages and found innovative ways of engaging with her community. Her efforts resulting is Ms Brack receiving the Austcover Young Landcare Leader Award at the Victorian Landcare Awards recently. “Working in Landcare is really the perfect fit for me as it has a focus on healthy environments as well as healthy communities,” Ms Brack said. Keen to attract more young people to Landcare, Ms Brack ran an Intrepid Landcare Retreat at Wilsons

Promontory for 20 people aged from 18 to 35. Participants learnt about Landcare, talked, hiked and worked with the local friends group, and graduates have gone on to form the Gippsland Intrepid Landcare Group. Ms Brack has demonstrated how social media can benefit Landcare. In just a year as administrator of the Landcare in Victoria Facebook page, she has increased its fans by 35 percent. A podcast she produces telling the stories of Landcare in West Gippsland was selected as a new and noteworthy podcast by iTunes Australia. With the aim of explaining the social and community benefits of Landcare, Ms Brack recently conducted a social return on investment study on a Merriman Creek Landcare Group project. This study found that

for every dollar spent on a Landcare project, there is at least a $3.41 return in social value. Ms Brack has also driven the implementation of a new iPad mapping system for the five Landcare networks in Gippsland, and has organised many workshops, a training course and field days. In her previous position as a project officer for the South Gippsland Landcare Network,s Ms Brack was a driving force in the creation of the South Gippsland Equine Landcare Group. She consulted with the community on the type of support horse owners needed and supported the people who came forward to form the group. The group has more than 500 followers on its Facebook page, and is an important contact point and information source for horse owners in Gippsland. Her work in South

Best selection: from left, Bass Coast Landcare Network community nursery volunteers Ross Arestia and Bevan Denman at work in the hothouse where seeds are germinated and grow out.

Mayor’s message Cr Ray Argento SPRING is here and, although it might not feel like it right now, the sunshine is on its way and increased numbers of visitors will soon follow.

We are fortunate to have so many natural attractions that motivate visitors to visit South Gippsland. Wilsons Promontory is a popular one, but we also have Agnes Falls, Turtons Falls, the Great Southern Rail Trail, the Grand Ridge Rail Trail and walking tracks and trails in almost every township. Many of these attractions are maintained by working groups or committees of management and without their contribution our tourist offering would be diminished. The work of these groups is often done quietly and in the background, but their work benefits the entire region and should be commended. When thinking of attractions and activities for tourists to visit, it’s easy to name a handful that we would instantly recommend. But how many local attractions have we, as residents, explored recently? During spring I would like to challenge us all to get out and about and to discover our own backyard. I’m sure there’s somewhere locally that you’ve always wanted to visit or an attrac-

tion that you promised yourself you’d return to… but just ran out of time. Spring is a great time to stop delaying and to start discovering. If you need help thinking of new places to explore, then our visitor information centres in Korumburra and Foster, and the South Gippsland Citizens Advice Bureau in Leongatha can assist. You can also find lots of tourism information online at www.visitpromcountry. com.au Don’t despair, if the rainy weather continues, there are still options available. I attended the opening of the new gallery at Meeniyan Art Gallery recently and I was impressed with the quality of the exhibited artists. Knowing we have so many quality galleries and artisans across South Gippsland is something of which we should all be proud. Finally, if you need some inspiration to start exploring, I would encourage you to check out the fabulous images which were entered into this year’s Prom Country Winter Photo Competition. You can view the images and vote for your favourite at www. promcountryphotocomp.com.au The 116 images were all taken around the local region and reflect the theme ‘Winter in Prom Country’. The photos help you to appreciate just how beautiful our region is… in every season.

Gippsland included developing the South Gippsland Landcare Network Koala Habitat Preservation Enhancement and Restoration Plan 2012–2015. Ms Brack was involved in biolink planning and community engagement as part of the plan. She developed a schools program about koalas in the Strzelecki Ranges and delivered it to primary schools in Poowong, Toora, Foster, Fish Creek and Tarwin Valley, as well as to two Leongatha kindergartens. Ms Brack also designed a citizen science website, where people from across Gippsland could record their koala sightings. More than 150 sightings were logged over a four year period. After growing up in rural New South Wales, she studied environmental and social science at RMIT. “I was very fortunate to

Making it happen: Kathleen Brack, recipient of the Austcover Young Landcare Leader Award at the Victorian Landcare Awards. get my first break after university working in Landcare in Gippsland. I love it. It’s awesome to see great projects underway and to work alongside such an inspiring and passionate group of

community volunteers. It’s been a privilege to be able to tell their stories,” Ms Brack said. She believed Landcare would change in the future and it was up to the next

generation to create the right space for that to happen. “There are many opportunities to get involved. It’s just a matter of finding the right fit for people,” Ms Brack said.

Starting the process: from left, Bass Coast Landcare Network community nursery volunteers Ben Mahagony, Louis Magee, Ray Kirk and Lyndall Wales pot up. More volunteers are welcome to join the networks’ volunteers who raise seedlings for planting in Landcare projects.

Landcare leads the way BASS Coast Landcare Network members are smiling after the group received five nominations in the Victorian Landcare Awards recently.

There were more than 85 nominations for the 14 award categories and the nominations from Bass Coast Landcare Network included: • Bass Coast Shire Council in the Partnerships category; • Three Creeks Landcare Group in the Landcare Community Group category; • the Environmental Detectives Schools Program Team in the Junior Landcare Team category; • Bimbadeen Farm in the Innovations in Agricultural Land Management category; • Derek Snowden of the Bass Coast Landcare Network, works crew team leader for Young Landcare Leader category; and • Daryl and Marg Hook of Pound Creek in the Excellence in Sustainable Farm Practices category. Three Creeks Landcare Group was highly commended for the Fairfax

Media Landcare Community Group Award and the

Environmental Detectives Program Team was com-

mended in the Junior Landcare Team category.

Spreading the message: Bass Coast Landcare Network’s Environmental Detectives Program Team was commended in the Junior Landcare Team category at the Victorian Landcare Awards. From left, Lauren Carey of program sponsor ENGIE, education officers Rosie Scott-Thompson and Peter Baird, Lisa Wangman, education and training team leader and audio visual consultant Nicky De Gruchy-Baird.

Way to go: the Three Creeks Landcare Group was highly commended for the Fairfax Media Landcare Community Group Award at the Victorian Landcare Awards. From left are group members Warren Thompson, Nick Sibly, Anna Mahagony, Roger Lee and Ben Mahagony.

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Spruce your home for sale and reap the rewards SELLING your home starts with ensuring the property makes a positive first impression on buyers.

That is the advice of Jason Harris of Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha, who is willing to help guide vendors through the best way to prepare their property for sale. “The presentation of your house is a massive factor,” he said. “It needs to be neat and tidy, inside and out.” Sales consultant Amanda Campbell urged vendors to ensure their home was decluttered to enable potential buyers to envisage the property as their own. “It also needs to feel homely too. Some people might take everything off the shelf and the home looks too bare,” she said. “A home’s presentation gets people from the internet to a first impression. If they do not come through the front door, they are not a potential buyer.” Five tips to get your home ‘sale ready’ from Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha. 1. Paint. Industry experts believe a fresh coat of paint will give you the most significant impact. Any scuffs or wear marks will present a dishevelled feel to prospective home buyers, and even small details like these can affect the resulting sale price. Often an unusual colour choice – like a yellow feature wall – can limit the buyers your home will appeal to. So roll up your sleeves and slap on a couple of coats of a neutral colour with a matte finish to appeal to the widest audience. 2. Clean and declutter. Save time down the track by beginning to sift through your belongings and throw out or donate any items you don’t regularly use, bin items which are broken or damaged, shred paperwork which is no longer relevant and consider

short term storage for any items which won’t enhance the look and feel of your home. When you begin the cleaning process, pay attention to small details. Consider investing in a professional house cleaner as they will be aware of the nooks and crannies you won’t even think of. 3. Half-empty the wardrobes. Storage is a hot commodity for home buyers and they will take the time to open every cupboard to gauge the storage available. An excellent tip is to half-empty your wardrobes and neatly organise what’s left as this gives the impression of a larger space. Do this for all storage areas throughout the house and organise short term storage for those items you want to keep. The more you store on-site the smaller your home will appear. 4. Eliminate odours. Don’t make the mistake of asphyxiating prospective home buyers by going overboard on the air fresheners. Make a trip to the market for a couple of bunches of freshly cut flowers, boil some fresh cinnamon on the stove or place a plate of fresh cookies on the kitchen bench. All of these homespun touches will add a lovely freshness to the air as well as offer a cosy welcoming vibe. 5. Rent furniture. Properties can sometimes take months to sell however if you’re willing to invest in some rented furniture and a home stager to spruce up your home, it can take turnover from as long as five months to as short as two weeks. A high end home with five bedrooms and up to three living areas can cost up to $15,000 to style, however this is at the more expensive end of the spectrum and sometimes a much lesser investment is required for smaller properties. Do your research and read reviews of local furniture and home styling businesses, and work with someone who understands your needs and can work within your budget.

Ready to help: from left, the sales team at Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha, Amanda Campbell, director Jason Harris and Mike West, can advise on preparing your home for sale.

Rural life appeals LIFESTYLE properties are in strong demand around Leongatha.

Real estate agency Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha, has 93 buyers on its database interested in lifestyle properties, with many people moving from south eastern Melbourne to enjoy a country life. The Leongatha township is also in demand as a place to call home, with newcomers from out-

side South Gippsland a mix of working families and retirees, but there are also many locals looking to change homes. Younger families particularly are wanting to move to town. “We have got the schools and the new hospital is a massive factor,” sales consultant Mike West said.

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“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 27

Pick a colour, any colour PAINTING can be a great way to update your house, inside or out, but once you have decided to slap some colour on the walls, how do you select the right one?

Choosing a paint colour can be overwhelming. One way to figure out what colour will work for you is to buy a sample pot, paint a large canvas and then leave it in the room for a few days. Move the canvas around the room, to see how the colour reacts to different areas and times of day. Paint will usually appear brighter once on the wall, especially if is being used every wall in the room. Most people think picking a paint colour should come first, however this can make choosing items to work in the space more difficult. Try styling the room first and taking cues from fabrics from curtains, furniture or even a feature artwork chosen for the room. When choosing a paint colour

Which one: choosing the right colour for your home can be a daunting choice, but there are tricks to make the task a little easier. for one space, it pays to consider how it will work with the rest of your home. It a good rule of thumb to have a smooth transition from one space to the next, as a sharp transition in colour can interrupt the flow of your home. One idea is to choose a colour for one room and paint the adjacent space two shades lighter or darker using tones from the same

colour swatch. Deciding on the mood or theme you would like to create in your home could also help to narrow down your colour choices. Cool tones such as blues and Take care: death and injuries due to falling from ladders can often be prevented by taking greens are ideal for the bedroom adequate safety precautions. because they create a calm and relaxing environment, while warm tones such as oranges and yellows create a warm and inviting atmosphere. • check that your ladder is in good working orIT’S that time of year when we start der, ensure it is free of rust, has non-slip safety feet, spring cleaning and DIY jobs. The Department of Health and Human Services and that safety locks and braces are in place’ • don’t use a ladder with missing or loose parts, is urging older Victorians to be mindful of ladder or if it is bent or warped; safety. • ensure the ladder is level, positioned on a firm, Ladder falls are the number one cause of DIYrelated deaths and hospitalisations among men over dry surface and that nothing slippery is near the base 60 years of age. Common reasons for falls off lad- or top contact points; • never put the ladder on top of other objects to ders include over-reaching, ladder slipping after placing it on uneven ground, incorrectly angled lad- gain extra height; • always ensure the ladder is locked firmly into der, ladder rungs collapsing, or the user slipping or place before use and make sure it is the right height mis-stepping. There were at least 276 deaths in Australia and for the job; • maintain three points of contact at all times 44,985 hospitalisations from ladder falls between 2001 and 2012, with most occurring at home. On while on the ladder. Use two hands when climbing. average, five Australians (mainly men over 60) die When using a tool, make sure both feet and your other hand are secure on the ladder; each year after falling from a ladder. • wear slip-resistant shoes; Ladder safety is an important issue – a fall of • work within your arm’s reach and avoid leaning one to two metres can be enough to cause broken bones, spinal cord damage, severe brain injury or out – it is much safer to get down and readjust the ladder; and even death. • Avoid using a ladder during hot days to prevent Don’t become a statistic. Follow these tips for getting dizzy and losing balance. safe ladder use: If you are concerned about using your ladder and • use only ladders that meet the Australian Stanyou are 65 years or older and you need assistance dard (AS/NZS 1892), read safety warnings and folwith basic maintenance around your home, contact low the manufacturer’s advice; your local council for more information.

Fully complete: all the hard work has been done including rollover kerb and channel, heritage lights, footpaths, underground power and the planting of ornamental pear trees. Blocks are available from just $110,000.

Leongatha blocks from $110,000 NOW might be the time to step into the property market in Leongatha with two blocks, side by side, recently hitting the market. Priced at just $110,000 each this might be the start of building your dream home. With settle-

ment within 60 days you can start your plans straight away. And don’t forget the State Government is offering a grant of $20,000 for first home buyers. The blocks are located in Hillview Estate off Brown Street and in walking distance to the shops. For details phone 0408 142 703.

Work safe up high

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

Deliveries of steel add to convenience Even better service: manager of steel sales Russell Thomas is delighted McRae Engineering now has a delivery truck ready to handle all steel deliveries.

THE incorporation of steel sales into the business has been a winwin for customers at McRae Engineering in Meeniyan.

As well as convenient pick-up for customers, McRae’s has now purchased a delivery truck that deliveries steel weekly to surrounding areas Since taking over the sales following the closure of Smith’s Steel in Pound Creek, McRae’s has handled the changeover with ease. Former employee at Smiths, Russell Thomas, is now in charge of steel sales at McRae’s and said it’s been “business as usual”. “We have inherited Smith’s phone number so people are getting straight through to us. Apart from a couple of people turning up to Pound Creek by mistake, which is now closed, most have now switched to Meeniyan,” Russell said. “We’ve had some pretty rough weather of late but we expect it to pick up now

with spring and warmer weather on the way and building activity on the up.” All steel and iron sales are catered for including galvanized pipe, RHS and SHS (rectangular and square hollow section) available in duragal or painted, flat bars, rounds, channels, structural steel and beams, galvanised lintels, smooth plate, floor plate, retaining wall galvanised posts plus sliding door tracks and accessories. See McRae’s also for all your roofing needs and for housing and sheds including Bluescope corrugated iron and Colorbond products. McRae’s has a large engineering component to its business offering general fabrication and manufacture large dairies and sheds as well, being a licensed installer for Christopher Dairy Bails. Trailer accessories have built up and include axles, jockey wheels, tow balls and suspension; all available in the front of building in the new retail space. See them at 134 Whitelaw Street, Meeniyan.

Grab a grant, cut your energy bill THE State Government is delivering $17 million to reduce energy costs for households that need it most.

The Home Energy Assist program, which provides funding for more than 3300 Victorian homes to become more energy efficient, has had its funding increased by an additional $8.1 million allocated in the Victorian Budget

2017-18. The Home Energy Assist package now includes: * $6.5 million for the Victorian Healthy Homes Program, to upgrade the homes of 1000 vulnerable Victorians with complex healthcare needs and low incomes; * $4.3 million for the EnergySmart Public Housing Program, which will

replace inefficient electric water heaters and electric heaters in 1300 public housing properties and deliver tailored upgrades to a further 200 from July 2017; and * $6.1 million as part of an Affordable Retrofits Program to support more than 800 Victorian concession card holders with home energy retrofits, appliance replacements, solar panels and

energy literacy programs. In addition, the government will also spend $1 million to update the Victorian Energy Compare website https://compare.switchon.vic.gov. au/ to include cost-reflective and other innovative tariffs, to ensure that the website can respond to the introduction of new tariffs by energy retailers. Minister for Energy, Environment

and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said, “We know increasing energy costs are affecting Victorians, especially the most vulnerable. “The funding allocated in our last budget to improve the Victorian Energy Compare website will enable Victorians to better navigate the energy prices available and get the best possible deal.”

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;? Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 29

Planning a garden? Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how By Karen Haw, The Town Centre Nursery, Mirboo North THE new house is finished or bought and you are ready to start the garden. The big question is where do you start? Here are a few pointers.

When planning a new design for your garden, the first thing to do is to work out exactly what the garden is going to be used for and who is going to use it. Do you want a vegetable garden, a large lawn for cricket, or themed garden: Japanese, native, cottage or formal or a mix? Site analysis is the most important step in your design. You need to know where it is sunny or shady, determine where the property faces north, south, east or east. Consider how the shade will change from season to season. Do you have areas that need screening for privacy or wind protection? Do you need shade? Deciduous trees in the right spot will give shade in summer and help cool the house and let the light in winter. Measure the house and draw a plan on graph paper, carefully locating doors, window, and garden. Measure the boundary and plot everything else, systemically from there. Take note of levels and determine if retaining walls are needed. On your graph paper, make each dark line square equal to one metre and when the outline is complete, scan it or photocopy it so you can try lots of different designs. Know your soil. Is it clay, sandy or loam? Does it drain or is it a swamp? How deep is the top soil? Healthy soils help healthy plants that thrive. The ideal soil is a crumbly loam which retains moisture without becoming soggy and allows water and air to enter freely. Oxygen is necessary for healthy root growth as well as for germination. Most of Australian soil contains clay in a high percentage and while most will lament, the advantage of clay over sand is that clay soils retain a lot of minerals and goodness. All soils benefit from compost and the addition of organic matter, so when preparing your garden beds in a new garden it is generally recommended to add a good quality top soil, and maybe some mushroom compost followed by some manure either chicken or cow, a good complete organic fertiliser, and some lime or dolomite. We also recommend that after planting you use mulch like sugarcane that will break down and add humus to the soil, improving the health of the soils. If planning a native garden, go easy on the mushroom compost and use a low phosphorous fertiliser. Now to select plants. This is the tricky bit as the choice is unlimited. On most garden shows when planting a garden, they use succession planting (starting with the tallest at the back graduating to the lowest at the front) and plant repetitions. Allow space for the plants to grow.

Wise move: sometimes it is better to plant a large established shrub for instant effect. Alice Haw inspects a Sweetheart magnolia at her Mirboo North home.

When planning a native garden it is often preferable to mimic bush-like planting and choose a variety of plants that will give colour throughout the year. There are some stunning natives produced that can be used as a feature plant such as grafted grevilleas and hakeas. Most native plants thrive in sunny positions but some will tolerate shade. Waratahs, especially the white and yellow flowering varieties, perform better with some shade so the flowers do not get damaged. Boronias, which are flowering now, do better with morning sun and afternoon shade. Philotheca, with its perfumed foliage, starry flowers and native mints, will also tolerate shade and these can be interplanted with grasses like dianellas and various lomandras which survive and thrive in most situations. For inspiration, look around your neighbourhood and visit open gardens, take photos and if stuck, ask at your local garden centre.

Beautiful transformation: Alice Haw, 5, admires an attractive native garden at her Mirboo North home that was once an untidy messy mixed garden. The garden faces west and the native plants do well.

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STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

3.8 acres plus three bedroom cottage W

ITH outstanding northerly views over surrounding farmland, this property enjoys the ideal lifestyle combination of land, house, views and position.

Add to that the convenience of being within four kilometres of the Koonwarra Store and the Great Southern Rail trail, and only 12 kilometres from Leongatha. The brick veneer home offers three bedrooms, lounge with solid fuel heater, and kitchen/dining area with views that will make washing the dishes a pleasure. The land is undulating, plenty of grazing as well as plantings of native gums. A dam provides water for cattle and the garden. There realy is lots to like about this one!

GJG2190011

Welcome home.

Wednesday 12noon - 3pm and Saturday 2pm - 4.30pm or by appointment 5952 2150 113-115 Parr Street, Leongatha

KOONWARRA 335 Old KoonwarraMeeniyan Road Alex Scott and Staff Leongatha 5662 0922

$420,000 3

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 31

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

LEONGATHA 15 A’Beckett Street Landmark Harcourts Leongatha 5662 2292

$310,000 2

Who wants a project? S

TRATEGICALLY situated in Leongatha between the shops, schools and sporting precinct is this fabulous art deco home.

It has been partially renovated, and comes complete with plans and soil tests, all ready for the next owner to pick up where the existing owners have left off. It currently has two bedrooms, with the master having a walk in robe and a beautifully renovated ensuite. The second bedroom is spacious with built in robes. The brand new kitchen boasts a gas oven, dishwasher, range hood and plenty of cupboard and bench space. With the rear of the house facing north it captures loads of sunlight and warmth. The architecture of the home,

combined with beautiful features like polished floor boards, French doors and large circular windows, all add to the appeal and atmosphere of this lovely home. The potential for this home

is endless, and you will be pleasantly surprised upon inspection. Don’t miss the opportunity to secure this 759 metre square block, close to the heart of the town.

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Your family friendly home awaits T

HIS renovated home located just a few minutes’ walk away from the local schools precinct will appeal to families. Comprising four generous bedrooms with plenty of built in storage (or three bedrooms plus sunroom) and spacious open plan living with large areas for dining, lounge and perhaps a play area, this functional

floor plan will suit a variety of buyers well. The kitchen includes a pantry, breakfast bar and new stainless steel stove and range hood. Apart from an extra wide tiled entry, practical floorboards flow through from the hallways into the family room and all bedrooms. New flooring has been installed in the bathroom, laundry and new toilet.

New paintwork indoors and a rendered façade give this home a modern, fresh look. Undercover entry into the home from the carport and front portico is handy. A lockable workshop with roller door adjoining the carport provides more storage. Call for an inspection of this property, situated in a most popular location.

LEONGATHA 12 Lee Parade Insight Real Estate Leongatha W G 5662 2220 E N N

$370,000 1

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017 - PAGE 33

Historical touch: Syd White and Joan Hopkins of the Friends of Coal Creek will be able to put $350 to good use. They are congratulated by South Gippsland Shire Cr Maxine Kiel on recently receiving a small grant from the Michael’s Supa IGA Community Rewards program.

Money gift: from left, representatives of some of the groups that received grants from Michael’s Supa IGA at the Leongatha RSL recently were, Mark Pearce, Woorayl Lodge, Pauline Kamphuis, St Laurence Catholic Church, Max Wood, Leongatha Men’s Shed, Cr Maxine Kiel, Paul Lahn, Leongatha Men’s Shed, Jenni Keerie, Milpara Community House, Michael Lorenz, managing director of Michael’s Supa IGA, Zoe Baillee, South Gippsland Genealogical Society, Jo McLeay, Grow Lightly, John and Janne Grenon, Heart Support Australia, Rob Francis, Carinya Lodge, Bill Ross, Heart Support Australia, Lyn Perks, Carinya Lodge, Greg McGrath, Jeetho Hall and Marje Ross, Heart Support Australia.

Backing elderly: Carinya Lodge representatives Lyn Perks and Rob Francis were delighted to receive $1125 from Michael Lorenz of Michael’s Supa IGA as part of the proceeds of the Community Rewards program.

Michael’s Supa IGA keeps on giving MICHAEL’S Supa IGA presented $104,715 to South Gippsland community groups and services at its Community Rewards presentation day at

the Leongatha RSL recently.

The day’s proceeds brought to $1.5 million the amount Michael’s has distributed to community and sporting groups in Leongatha, Korumburra and district since the in-

ception of the Community Rewards program. Make sure the members of your groups are signed up with the program so your group can earn a share of the annual rewards.

It all helps: with their eyes on the development of a home for the Leongatha Men’s Shed group, Max Wood and Paull Lahn were pleased to receive $425 from Michael’s Supa IGA Community Rewards program. With them at the presentations was Cr Maxine Kiel.

Preserving history: Greg McGrath of the Jeetho Hall committee and Zoe Bailee of the South Gippsland Genealogical Society received cheques from the Michael’s Supa IGA Community Rewards program. With them at the presentations was Cr Maxine Kiel.

Reaching out: congratulating recipients of proceeds from the Michael’s Supa IGA Community Rewards program recently was Cr Maxine Kiel (centre) with Pauline Kamphuis of St Laurence’s Catholic Church ($1005) and Jenni Keerie of Milpara Community House ($505).

Love that rhythm: delighted with $500 from the Michael’s Supa IGA Community Rewards program were Heart Support Australia representatives Bill Ross, Janne Grenon, John Grenon and Marj Ross with Cr Maxine Kiel.

Health focus: Jo McLeay of the Grow Lightly organisation will use the $300 her group received from the Michael’s Supa IGA Community Rewards program to buy veggie bags for the food hub. She is congratulated by Cr Maxine Kiel.

Caring approach: Mark Pearce, chair of the Woorayl Lodge committee of management, was delighted to receive $1070 from the Michael’s Supa IGA Community Rewards program. With him at the presentations was Cr Maxine Kiel.

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 35

Back in black: Nissan introduces Navara N-SPORT Black Edition THE rugged Nissan Navara just got even tougher thanks to the introduction of the N-SPORT Black Edition.

Limited to 500 units only, and available on the top of the range Nissan Navara ST-X Dual Cab 4x4, the impressive assortment of stylish Black Edition accessory and decal additions make the Navara even better. The Navara N-SPORT Black Edition consists of a range of Nissan genuine accessories which include a black sports bar and a black nudge bar, a fitted LED light bar, and black fender flares that arch around the tough 18-inch black alloy wheels. It also has a black gloss honeycomb grille and smoky chrome fog lamp finishers, a black soft tonneau cover, N-SPORT badging and ‘Black Edition’ decals. On sale now, the N-SPORT Black Edition complements four contemporary exterior colours including Cosmic Black, Slate Grey, Brilliant Silver and Diamond White. “The N-SPORT Black Edition gives the Navara a tough looking make over,” Nissan Australia managing director Richard Emery said. “Black is all the rage at the moment and certainly makes the Nissan Navara ST-X Dual Cab

stand out. “With its aggressive but stylish look, and limited numbers, we think this will be a popular variant for ute buyers.” The Nissan Navara ST-X Dual Cab 4X4 has a 2.3 litre intercooled twin-turbo diesel engine that outputs 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. Including satellite navigation with 3D mapping, reverse camera, reversing sensors and seven inch integrated colour display with touch screen, the Navara is the perfect companion for families with an active outdoor lifestyle, or for those who need a tough ute on the job. Unique chance: Darryl McGannon, dealer principal of Edney’s Leongatha, with the Nissan With a shift-on-the fly 4WD system that Navara, N-SPORT Black Edition, limited to 500 units. switches between 2WD and high range 4WD (4H), it also carves through mud and sandy terrain when in low range 4WD (4LO). Boasting 3500kg braked towing capacity, the Navara ST-X Dual Cab 4X4 also comes with driver and passenger airbags, driver knee airbag and front to rear curtain airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Brake Limited Slip Differential (BLSD), Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). For more information, contact Edney’s Leongatha on 5662 2327. LMCT 1500.

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Standout scouts: from left, award winners at South Gippsland Scouts’ awards night were Venturer of the Year Rebecca Taylor, Scout of the Year Max Slinger, Scouter of the Year Cathy Cook, and front, Cubs of the Year, Annalise Harbert and Grace Cook.

Health win: members of South Gippsland Hospital’s Youth Access Clinic show their appreciation to Toora and District Community Bank Branch staff for their $10,000 donation. From left, Karen Dorling (bank), Kate Whittingham (bank), Carlene Hurst (mental health nurse), Dr Alison Wilde, David Roberts (bank), Jenni Munro (volunteer with Youth Assist Clinic), Bonnie Patterson (adolescent health nurse at South Gippsland Hospital), Samantha Park (director community health at South Gippsland Hospital), Tarryn Tibbals (bank) and Terri Bohn (bank).

Community bank gives $1 million WHEN you bank with Toora and District Community Bank Branch, Foster Branch or the Welshpool Agency, great things happen in your community.

Junior winners: Cub of the Year Annalise Harbert of Leongatha Cubs, Joey of the Year, Zac Sporie of Korumburra Joey Mob, and Cub of the Year, Grace Cook of Yarram Cubs.

Scouts on parade ABOUT 100 people attended the awards night of South Gippsland Scouts at the Leongatha Scout Hall recently. Guest speakers Glen and Nat Latham, of Fish Creek, spoke about their role as cross cultural missionaries living and working with tribal people in a remote village in Papua New Guinea. “We have spent about 10 years there, first learning to speak pidgin and learning Papua New Guinea culture, and then moving into an isolated village where we learnt the tribal language and culture,” Glen said. “After this we helped set up a literacy program and have begun Bible transla-

tion and teaching. We also do some basic medical work.” Award winners were: • Joey of the Year: Zac Sporie, Korumburra Joey Mob; • Cub of the Year: Annalise Harbert of Leongatha Cubs and Grace Cook of Yarram Cubs; • Scout of the Year: Max Slinger, Korumburra Scout Group; • Venturer of the Year: Rebecca Taylor, Tarwin River Venturers; and • Scouter of the Year: Cathy Cook, 1st Yarram Scouts leader. The Korumburra Scout Group provided a tasty supper.

Mayor’s message Cr Pamela Rothfield

ON my return from a northern holiday this week, I was delighted to see the implementation of the new three bin system is in full swing.

Driving through Bass Coast on my way home I saw all of our weathered old bins, lying down on the kerbside ready to be collected for recycling, reminding me of sleeping soldiers. Congratulations to all our residents – our first two days of new organic waste collection system, has resulted in the pick up or some 43 tons of organic waste, with only 338kgs of contaminated waste (meaning that plastic was included). In lay persons terms this means that out of some 1,720 bins, there was only a mere seven wheelie bins which included contaminated waste. What a great start to this system! What a great start to a change in habits and creating a different attitude towards our waste responsibilities. Although we have had this great start, it will be no surprise for anyone to hear that introducing any new and significant system to a community always brings with it, challenges. We know we will certainly experience ‘teething issues’, where we all learn about the new system and find ways to adapt and integrate it into our lives. As we progress we will work together to iron out the kinks. I urge all uses of the system, especially commercial enterprises and businesses, who may have challenges

in adapting, to please make contact with our waste team. Every problem has a solution and we will find a solution and moreover, share these findings with other community members who might be experiencing the same issues. I believe the waste industry is in a period of significant change and we will see many new technologies and improvements in this space over the next decade. I am both excited and proud Bass Coast is at the forefront of this change at a local level. Talking about issues, I have received recently a query from a community member, who posed the question as to the possibility of selling our old shire bins for use within the building industry, instead of being recycled into furniture etc. Having looked into this question, I have found out some interesting facts. The vast majority of our old bins have reached the end of their lifespan – which through UV exposure has made the bins brittle and rendered unsafe for use of holding heavy building materials. Having said this, council has, however, offered a number of the wheelie bins to sporting clubs within the shire for storage of sporting equipment, however this cannot be extended to heavy building material, due to safety concerns. So I am delighted to find our community has shown its desire to get on board and help us make a difference, not just for us, but for our children and grandchildren. Our actions today will be a gift to the next generation, not a burden – thank you all.

Local projects find funding. Local clubs find sponsorship. Local schools benefit. That’s because we invest our profits to make your community a better place to live. The Toora and District Community Bank Branch, Foster Branch and Welshpool Agency have exceeded more than $1 million given back into the community. The Community Bank held a function on September 5 and invited the entire community to attend. As part of the festivities, the South Gippsland Hospital received $10,000 towards the local Youth Assist Clinic, taking the local Community Bank total

to more than $1 million given back to the community. 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. Community Bank chair, Robert Liley said the Toora and Foster Community Bank branches are committed to supporting the thriving promontory district. “Reaching the $1 million mark is such a fantastic achievement for a community enterprise that many perceived as a far off dream,” Mr Liley said. “But we have taken this dream for a locally owned and operated bank and turned it into a reality, financially supporting hundreds of community initia-

tives in the process. “Thanks to the support of our customers, contributors, branch team, and company board, we have been able to grow to be one of the biggest sources of local community funding.” Mr Liley said he hoped $1 million in community sponsorship, grants, donations and scholarships would be just the start for the Toora and Foster Community Bank branches. “With the support of our community we can continue to grow our business and, most importantly, our community,” he said. So next time you have a banking decision to make, drop into either the Toora and District Community Bank, 48 Stanley Street Toora, the Foster Branch at 68 Main Street, Foster, or the Welshpool agency, 14 Main Street, Welshpool and make an appointment for a comparison quote, you might be surprised.

Road plan needed for Phillip Island FORMER councillor Phil Wright challenged Bass Coast Shire Council to think big picture when it approaches its Phillip Island roads master plan.

Last year, Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan announced $3 million to develop a road master plan for Phillip Island. “My problem is not about VicRoads, it’s around how council sees its role in developing this master plan,” he said. “Thus far, from a community perspective, council hasn’t optimised this opportunity, nor delivered any communication about what is possible and what the potential is.” CEO Paul Buckley said discussions are ongoing about what’s best for Phillip Island, with council now focusing on major projects such as the Cape Woolamai roundabout, which was funded in this year’s State Budget. Mr Wright said this is the time to consider the preferred tourism route from San Remo to Cowes. According to Google Travel, the travel time along the

Milpara Community House news

V/Line route past the racetrack is the same as the current preferred route along the tourist road. Mr Wright said the north east quarter – including the Rhyll Wetlands and Coghlan Road – is often dominated by traffic, despite its unique natural environment and tourism potential. According to the Phillip Island Integrated Transport Strategy, the vision is for an 80 km/h travel path between San Remo and Cowes. Mr Wright said it can’t happen along the tourism road, but would be far more achievable if traffic was to converge at the racetrack and past Smiths Beach. “We should be thinking about the ways we can develop tourism, go in with an open mind, and consider all the possibilities,” he said.

A Star is born

THE Luncheon: Connect over food is held today (Tuesday) and is a great opportunity to try yummy dishes while sharing a meal with new friends.

We are thrilled to announce the Think Digital Coach will be visiting Korumburra on Wednesday, October 25. It is a hi-tech 14 metre mobile classroom that teaches tomorrow’s technology today through engaging hands-on digital education, experience and entertainment. Tim Gentle is an excellent presenter. People will be able to sign up to get involved. He will also be delivering a session for small businesses who want to know more about how to do business online. Stay tuned for more information. Our full program for term four will be available on line soon at milparacommunityhouse.org.au. As a teaser, a cold presses soap making workshop will be held on Thursday, October 19. Make and take home your own beautiful cold press soap. You’ll be able to relive the good old days when we bring back the traditional Tea Dance, a social event to connect with people while enjoying classic dances including the waltz and of course supper. Four Tea Dances are planned during the term. We have a four week introduction class to help you explore relaxation, mindfulness, yoga and compassion techniques. If you have any questions please call Milpara, 5655 2524.

IVY Anne Salmon was born at Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne on August 31. She is the first child for Tim and Heather Salmon of Coburg. Tim is formerly of Leongatha.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 37

The Good Life

Your LOCAL guide to Art and Entertainment

Wings in Spring unites art and nature EMILY Koenders is hosting a magnificent art exhibition, Wings in Spring, from Saturday, September 16 through to Sunday, October 8, open daily from 11am to 5pm.

A visit to this hilltop paradise will guarantee you a memorable experience! That spring is in the air will be abundantly clear as you meander through the avenues of maples and elms. You will delight in the newly created French Parterre garden, as the view to Wilsons Promontory stretches out before you. Then enter the amazing working studio and art gallery which is a feast for the senses, with beautiful wildlife paintings in a breathtaking setting which has to be seen to be believed. A slice of heaven on earth to inspire an artist throughout her journey, and many of the

varieties of birds depicted in her works also call her gardens home. Eastern Spinebills, Scarlet Robins, Blue Wrens, Red browed Finches, Kookaburras and King Parrots to name but a few, not to mention the majestic raptors such as Peregrine Falcons, Nankeen Kestrels and Wedge- tailed Eagles circling overhead. Emily’s art career commenced at only 14 years of age when she decided her life’s calling was to be an artist, claiming she was “born on a palette”. Amazingly many years later, a discovery was made which connected her to the famous Dutch Master – Vincent van Gogh – Emily is his great, great, great, great niece. Knowing she is related to the brilliant painter has inspired her to work with even greater passion and depth. Emily’s artworks are an achievement from more than 25 years of study, in which she has spent countless hours in nature. She has studied the

most meticulous details of ornithology. Emily’s style showcases her wonderful capacity to utilise light and form, with her works being executed in several mediums ranging from gouache and watercolour to pencil and pastel. She seeks to elicit an emotional response from the viewer by the use of colour, atmosphere, behaviour and mood. Emily invites you to come on a journey with her and participate in the drama of her beautifully realistic depictions of the wonders of the created world. A quote of hers, which expresses her feelings deeply, is worth acknowledging: “Loving nature is perfection, and to capture that magic, even to give those who view my work a glimpse at it, is what I wish to achieve”. Emily’s travels have taken her to studying art in the great galleries across Europe. She has had amazing wildlife encounters throughout the world. Emily has won many

awards, including Victor Harbour, South Australia, and in Victoria at Leongatha, Korumburra, Bayswater, Box Hill, Bellarine Peninsula, and Chirnside Park art shows. Her work is highly sought after, and is in both private and corporate collections here and overseas, and many noted clients are proud to call her work theirs. Emily also paints commissions – special requests of your very own can become immortalised in a beautiful painting, an heirloom in your family, for many generations to enjoy. The Emily Koenders Art Gallery is located on the Ruby-Fairbank Road and can be approached either from the South Gippsland Highway at the large brown tourist signs (Ruby turn off), or alternatively, take the Wild Dog Valley Road (past Murray Goulburn towards Fairbank and Leongatha North), then left into Fairbank Road and left again at Ruby–Fairbank Road. The gallery is the second property on the left.

Mixed media channels energy DESIGN is always at the front of Anne Miller’s mind.

“The simplicity of daily life can provide unexpected inspiration. One such inspiration came from the simple act of brushing my horse’s tail. I looked at the tangled mass of wiry black and white hairs, and I was momentarily fixated by its linear quality,” the Foster North artist said.

Creative mind: Foster North artist Anne Miller has turned to mixed media in her exhibition at Gecko Studio Gallery, Fish Creek.

“I saw a fluid looping mass of lines and its smoothness and texture stuck with me. “I collected the hair from the brush, immediately placed it in my journal and continued to refer back to the resemblance of beautiful lines. It had its own magic for me. This was the beginning of Swish.” Swish is Miller’s exhibition at Gecko Studio Gallery, Fish Creek, to open this Sunday, September 17 at 2pm, and continuing until November 18. Miller’s exhibition will feature works created with brush strokes from horse hair brushes she made, as well as additional media. “This new process felt organic, raw and alive with the energy of the horse! Having made my own collection of brushes gave me a new expression of marks, a ‘new territory’ which in turn created a new visual dialogue for me to explore,” she said. “I started to experiment with my new brushes and let myself ‘unthink’ and just allow myself to respond with an instinctive force. This became thrilling. I added tea bags and the tea water added tone, tex-

ture and natural colour. “I explored collage in a new way for me. I created a bank of marks using different mediums and a combination of horse hair and thread. I was having fun, “It was obvious to me that design, composition, textures, patterns and colour all become part of my instinctual desire to create and a natural

narrative began.” Recently elected secretary of Prom Coast Arts Council, Miller won second prize in the 2015 Great Southern Portrait Prize at Foster and in 2014, won a highly commended and people’s choice prizes in the same competition. She has exhibited at Torquay, Melbourne, Toora and Fish Creek.

Thought provoking: Untitled 2 by Anne Miller.

For enquiries please contact Emily Koenders Art Gallery, 230 Ruby–Fairbank Road, Fairbank. Find us on Facebook: Emily Koenders Art Gallery or phone 0421 339 575.

Reputable artist: Emily Koenders invites wildlife and art enthusiasts to her Fairbank gallery to enjoy her latest exhibition, Wings in Spring.

Indigenous artist shapes Lyric show LEONGATHA Lyric Theatre’s production of Our Country’s Good is due to open in Leongatha’s Mesley Hall on Friday, September 29.

The cast and crew are putting in every effort to make this a memorable show. They are particularly pleased to have the services of Ronald Edwards-Pepper who has created a striking mural on the stage floor composed of large masonite tiles laid over the existing floor. Painting the floor for a show is not uncommon, but this is the first time it has been designed and painted by an indigenous artist. Ronald has studied Aboriginal and Torres Strait Art and Design part-time at GippsTAFE and is now enrolled in a Bachelor of Visual and Media Arts course at Federation University in Churchill. He drew the design on the floor with chalk then directed the willing helpers from the cast and crew to paint it with him recently. He chose the colours to be used and kept a close eye on how it was progressing from a vantage point above the floor. In the weeks leading up to this event, there was a lot to do to make the space available to lay the floor tiles down in one place. This involved moving and dismantling scenery from

Creative man: Ronald Edwards-Pepper at work on the floor mural in Lyric’s shed in Leongatha recently, ahead of the production Our Country’s Good that will open in Leongatha’s Mesley Hall on Friday, September 29. past shows and re-locating the timber. A pile of rocks and a gallows are required in the play, so the clever set construction crew is creating them. The costume team has also been busy sewing convict dresses and then destressing them. The action of the play takes place after the long sea voyage to Australia.

The convicts of the First Fleet were allowed to bring and wear their own clothes but after 18 months the dresses and shirts were looking the worst for wear. Our Country’s Good performances are September 29 to October 7. Tickets are available by phoning Amy Smith on 0490 525 482 or at www.lyrictheatre.net.au

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“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 39

Fun and games at Kongwak primary

Outdoor education: from left, Kongwak Primary School students Shannon, Isla, Shaye, India, Alexis, Josh, Luke and Lucas (front) make the most of the school’s vegetable garden Fun times: from left, Kongwak Primary School students Isla, Ethan and Vashti explore their and chicken coop recently, a unique feature of the country school that Kongwak is. Expressions of interest for enrolments for 2018 are now being taken. creative sides in the Prep/One/Two room, where students bond like family.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Farming Insight

Farmers unite: Mark Dowling from Berrys Creek sold his Farm talk: from left, Antonino, Vince and Sam Ditta from Foster and bulls at Landmark’s bull sale at VLE Leongatha, while Chris Toora were looking at buying at Landmark’s bull sale at VLE LeonPeters from Arawata browsed the bulls on offer last Tuesday, gatha last Tuesday, September 5. September 5.

• VLE Leongatha

Dairy lots dominate yarding THERE were approximately 720 export and 80 young cattle penned representing a decrease of 30 head week on week. The usual buying group was present but not all operating fully in a generally firm prime sale where plainer cattle were harder to sell. Quality declined with a very limited selection of prime cattle and the cow offering which consisted of mostly dairy lots represented two thirds of the overall yarding. Trade cattle sold to firm demand. Grown steers and bullocks sold firm. Cows sold mostly firm with some medium weights a little easier.

The larger offering of heavy bulls saw the better shaped lots ease 2c to 3c/kg and plain conditioned dairy bulls slip further. Yearling heifers to the trade sold from 273c to 289c/kg. Grown steers made between 278c and 288c/kg. Bullocks sold between 282c and 297c/kg. Heavy weight manufacturing steers made from 252c to 278c/kg. Most light and medium weight cows sold from 168c to 215c/kg. Heavy weight cows made mostly between 190c and 250c with a pair of young cows reaching 268c/kg. Heavy weight C and B muscle bulls sold between 238c and 257c with the dairy lots between 205c

and 254c/kg. The next sale draw - September 13 & 14: 1. Phelan & Henderson & Co, 2. Landmark, 3. SEJ, 4. Elders, 5. Alex Scott & Staff, 6. Rodwells.

Prime Sale - Wednesday, September 6

BULLOCKS 18 O’Loughlin Bros, Meeniyan 12 A. & S. Matthews, Dumbalk 5 G. Molino, Wollert 7 S. & L. Berryman, Yarram 14 D. Timmins, Glengarry 2 G. & R. Knox, Loch STEERS 13 B. & D. Summers, Fish Creek

724.2kg 658.8kg 692.0kg 624.3kg 624.6kg 770.0kg

296.6 295.2 292.0 288.0 282.0 281.6

$2147.88 $1944.63 $2020.64 $1797.94 $1761.49 $2168.32

543.1kg 288.0 $1564.06

1 Treevalley Holdings, Koonwarra 520.0kg 2 R. & D.J. Hennig, Bulga 440.0kg 2 P.L. Lang, Glengarry 490.0kg 6 Seaview, Glen Alvie 535.8kg 1 T.V. Greig, Doomburrim 500.0kg HEIFERS 2 A.C. Trotman, Leongatha 437.5kg 1 Bradley Livestock, Gurdies 575.0kg 1 Treevalley Holdings, Koonwarra 420.0kg 1 R. & K. Patton, Ventor 455.0kg 6 A. & S. Matthews, Dumbalk 473.3kg 1 A. & M. Roberts, Leongatha South 545.0kg COWS 2 A. & M. Roberts, Leongatha South 520.0kg 1 A.C. Trotman, Leongatha 625.0kg 2 J. Langley Nom. P/L, Inverloch 532.5kg 1 D. Meikle & A. Diving, Meeniyan 690.0kg 1 D.J. D’Oliver, Leongatha 555.0kg 1 M.N. Savige, Alberton West 585.0kg BULLS 1 Kanstantopoulos, Mt Waverley 845.0kg 1 Redmond Dairies, Inverloch 1010.0kg 1 T.V. Greig, Doomburrim 800.0kg 1 R. & K. Patton, Ventnor 990.0kg 1 Nearhaven P/L, West Creek 970.0kg 1 B. Phyland, Krowera 885.0kg VEALER BULLS 1 Treevalley Holdings, Koonwarra

277.6 275.0 266.6 251.6 200.0

$1443.52 $1210.00 $1306.34 $1348.16 $1000.00

295.0 289.2 284.6 282.0 280.6 277.6

$1290.63 $1662.90 $1195.32 $1283.10 $1328.17 $1512.92

267.6 250.0 245.0 242.0 239.6 239.6

$1391.52 $1562.50 $1304.63 $1669.80 $1329.78 $1401.66

256.6 253.6 252.6 251.6 251.6 247.6

$2168.27 $2561.36 $2020.80 $2490.84 $2440.52 $2191.26

400.0kg 293.6 $1174.40

2ND STAGE COMPLETE DISPERSAL SALE KOONWARRA SELLING CENTRE Monday 25th September at 11.00am MAGNIFICENT SPRING CALVED HOLSTEIN HERD CHURCH FARM HOLSTEINS Decades of David James Corrective Mating A/C R & A Jones of Woodleigh. 0356 577 384

120 Exceptional Cows 120 & Heifers All Freshly Calved • Production to 12386 litres, 385 kg protein, 475 kg fat. Backed by massive lifetime production. Sires include - Shottle, Gerard, Zelgadis, Iota, Beacon, Medallion, Dorcy, Favre, Guthrie, Mogul Sons, Shout, Dundee, Bolton, Jardin, Jeeves, Farnear. Simply one of the finest herds to sell this Spring. Very low cell count. Catalogues available now - Please contact DLS Office 03 9338 9259 Terms are cash or cheque on day of sale or settlement by your Agent - Letter of Introductions MUST be provided Andrew Mackie 0419 595 932 Luke Russell 0408 313 815 Brian Leslie 0418 365 934

www.dairylivestockservices.com.au Find us on...

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 41

Farming Insight Brown champions beef By Sarah Vella FOR the second year in a row, a South Gippslander has been named as the state finalist for the Cattle Council of Australia’s rising beef industry champion program.

This year Wattle Bank’s Aaron Brown is the Victorian finalist. In 2016, the Victorian finalist was Cape Paterson Angus stud farm manager Rob Ewing. Now in its seventh year, the Cattle Council of Australia’s (CCA) rising champion program is about helping the next generation of beef industry leaders to step up. As a finalist, Mr Brown attended a three day program in Canberra on Monday and today (Tuesday), which enabled him to network with the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, learn effective communication techniques, develop his leadership skills and participate in CCA committee meetings. Mr Brown said he was both surprised and pleased to be named as a finalist in the awards. “I have grown up on this farm (in

Wattle Bank), where we run a mixed enterprise of both beef cattle and sheep,” he said. “The fact I am running a business that involves cattle and have been involved in Southern Australia Meat Research Council (SAMRC) and other industry programs probably helped to get me across the line. “Being involved in SAMRC has been a great experience for me. It is essentially about trying to get the private sector more involved in the research that is happening in Gippsland and Tasmania.” In May, Mr Brown was sponsored to attend a company directors course in Canberra, which was another reason he applied to the rising champion program. “The CCA program is a good follow on from the company directors course, which was one of the best things I have even done,” he said. The winner of the rising champion is given an opportunity to “sell” the beef industry, which Mr Brown is keen to do. “There is a lot of scope in the future for jobs in agriculture. Primary industries will need a lot of highly skilled people in the future,” he said. “A lot of people aren’t aware of

Top of game: Wattle Bank farmer Aaron Brown has been named as the Victorian finalist for this year’s Cattle Council of Australia rising beef industry champion program. the opportunities within the industry and that is what this program is about, promoting those opportunities to the farmers of the future.” Mr Brown said there was still growth in the industry, but the reality is leaving school to buy a farm is becoming “pretty hard”. “There are other avenues to become involved in agriculture, but the

challenges and opportunities are different now to what they were 20, 30 or 40 years ago,” he said. “The industry is definitely changing.” The 2017 winner will be announced at a gala dinner on November 20 in Alice Springs, in conjunction with Red Meat 2017 and the Meat and Livestock Australia AGM.

Backyard farmer’s guide to strong chicken eggs ACCORDING to the ageold tale, chickens have been laying eggs since the dawn of time, if not before however, producing an object as big as your own head every day, is a feat that should not be understated.

As the backyard farmer knows well, it’s easy to make a scramble of the process, with soft or fractured egg shells a sure sign that your birds are lacking a nutritious diet. The process of producing a chicken egg is formulaic. First, the hen produces the yoke and the white, drawing from the proteins and vitamins consumed in the morning. In the afternoon, the layer turns to a calcium rich diet, consuming the ingredients needed to produce a strong shell. Whilst it’s less obvious from looking at a chicken’s egg if the bird lacks specific proteins and vitamins, the implications of a diet low in calcium are obvious.

When an egg is laid by a chicken lacking in calcium, the shell is either soft or fractured. “A hen needs 2.2 grams of calcium to produce each egg and the right balance of phosphorus,” poultry nutritionist Grant Richards said. “Anything less and the shell comes out under formed.” Unfortunately for the chickens and your breakfast plate, many backyard diets make sourcing enough calcium difficult. A diet of hap hazard food scraps common to the backyard farm, have little consideration for what the hen needs to keep its production line chugging. “Chickens naturally seek out calcium in the afternoon to aid in egg shell production,” Mr Richards said. “Most scrap based diets fall short of satisfying a bird’s intense nutritional needs”. Supplementing or complementing a scrap based diet with a crushed grain feed such as Eggs 4 Sure, provides welcome dietary relief for the chickens. Eggs 4 Sure, produced by

Victorian based company, Reid Stockfeeds, has been specifically formulated to provide a laying chicken with their required daily dose of calcium, plus important proteins and vitamins critical to the production of a nutritious egg. “A scrap based diet contains about 10 percent dry matter, which is where the proteins, vitamins and minerals are stored. A formulated grain based feed like Eggs 4 Sure, contains 88 percent dry matter,” Mr Richards said. “Eggs 4 Sure contains a calcium rich, limestone formula known as grit. The chickens seek out the grit in the afternoon, easily satisfying two-thirds of their daily intake requirements”. To add a crushed grain formula such as Eggs 4 Sure into a chicken’s diet, it’s recommended starting with small quantities, allowing time for the chicken to adjust. Hens should be fed approximately 125150 grams of Eggs 4 Sure daily. For more information on a grain base chicken diet or Eggs 4 Sure, visit the Reid Stockfeeds website at www.reidstockfeeds. Only the best: Deb Hahnemann of Forge com.au/poultry-stockfeed Creek Freerange. She won best in class for

O’Brien takes weeds plight to Parliament GIPPSLAND South MLA Danny O’Brien has taken community concerns about enforcement of weed control on private land to State Parliament.

He has asked the Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford, to take action to crack down on recalcitrant land owners who don’t do the right thing in controlling noxious weeds. “A few weeks ago I met with a number of Landcare groups at Poowong to discuss their concerns about weed control on private land,” he said. “With a lot more tree changers and absentee land holders moving into our beautiful Gippsland landscape, education is an issue and there is a growing concern about the management of weeds. “But it’s not just new arrivals; some long time landowners as well need to be reminded of their obligations. “The government has the law at

• Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien. its disposal to enforce proper weed management and the message I heard from this meeting is that not enough is being done.” Mr O’Brien said he had asked the minister about better compliance, a flying squad to travel the state to tackle seasonal weed is-

sues, penalties being applied onto land titles of offenders and on-thespot fines as measures to tackle weeds that were suggested at the meeting. It’s estimated that weeds cost Australian agriculture $4 billion through yield losses and product contamination each year and that controlling invasive species in Victoria alone costs $253 million. Mr O’Brien said Labor was not doing enough. “I heard genuine concern and frustration from my constituents in Poowong a few weeks ago and promised to take up this issue on their behalf,” he said. “Weed control and enforcement is not sexy, it’s not politically exciting, but it must be a priority for the Agriculture Minister. “I’ve also passed on the concerns and some of the suggested ideas to my Nationals Leader and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Peter Walsh, who will be in the region next month to also hear local concerns about weeds.”

eggs at the Australian Food Awards 2016 and is an advocate of Eggs 4 Sure.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

situations vacant

CLEANING CONTRACTOR Tenders are invited for cleaning contractors to clean South Gippsland Specialist School. Cleaners must be listed on the Department’s Contract Cleaners Panel and should attend a site inspection, to be advised once registered. Contract documents will be available at that time. Register attendance on 5662 4496. Only short listed applicants will be contacted.

situations vacant

WEEKEND MILKER REQUIRED 30 ASIDE HERRINGBONE SHED Leongatha South

situations vacant MILKER required - 750 cows, rotary dairy, 4 afternoons per week. Phone Graeme 0427634233. RELIEF MILKER, casual, weekend and/or week days, 200 cows. Leongatha North. A/h 5668-9292.

Phone Mark 0427 643 241

MACHINE OPERATORS Allens Contracting is seeking expressions of interest from suitable applicants to operate agricultural and earthmoving machinery on a casual basis. Applicants must be have genuine experience operating: • Tractor and Silage Wagon • Mowers, Rake, Tedder. • Excavator, Grader, Tip Trucks. Please email resumé to: info@allenscontracting.com.au

public notice GSHS Lyrebird Hospital Auxiliary

Movie Night

VICTORIA & ABDUL Thursday September 14 Stadium 4 Cinema Approx 7pm (check local papers for session times)

$20 Adults - $15 Concession/Students (Supper included) Tickets available from Insight Real Estate or on the night Further information 5662 3650 / 0409 623 650

Email your adverts to The Star

0.4 EFT Permanent Part Time (Job Ref: PH0901) Contact: Belinda Ogden, Community Services Manager. Ph: 5667 5620 or email belinda.ogden@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, 24th September 2017

PROPERTY MANAGER

MARINE LICENCE COURSE

(12 month ﬁxed term) Leongatha

INVERLOCH BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Phone Bob: 0417 524 005 Approved TSV course www.abcboating.com ABN 43080057923

DUMBALK RECREATION RESERVE Notice is given of a

PUBLIC MEETING To be held at DUMBALK RESERVE on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 commencing at 7pm The purpose of this meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Dumbalk Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on September 25. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women are encouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning ofﬁce or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Nicholas Hill on 0418 129 981.

public notice

Volunteer Coordinator

public notice

Saturday, Sept 16 1pm - 5pm

public notice

situations vacant

WOORAYL LODGE INC. POSITION VACANT MANAGER - AGED CARE FACILITY Woorayl Lodge is an independent, not for proﬁt organization with 40 Aged Care beds and 30 Independent Living Units. We are seeking a full time Facility Manager. A Job Description is available on our website woorayllodge.com.au or further information can be obtained by contacting the Board Chairman, Mark Pearce on 0419 893 204. Applications will close September 30, 2017.

VACANCY @ GSHS

ads@thestar.com.au

Vic. Boat Licence with Jetski endorsement

situations vacant

Elders has played a key role in rural Australia for more than 175 years. As a leading agribusiness we are committed to providing our clients with a solution that meets their needs across every aspect of their farming business. This ﬁxed term position will be responsible for: • building and maintaining client relationships to understand their current & future needs; • Identifying and cultivating new opportunities for new and existing clients’ investments. What you’ll bring to the position: • Previous experience as a Property Manager preferred; • Industry experience within the local area of Leongatha; • Understanding of Residential Tenancy Legislation; • Current driver’s licence and certiﬁcate of registration; • Excellent communication, negotiation and client relationship skills; • Excellent attention to detail with good time management skills, back-up reception duties, daily banking & general administration tasks For further information please contact Rohan McRae, Branch Manager on 0417 836 664 or email leongatha@elders.com.au To apply go to www.eldersrural.com.au/about-us/careers/ Applications close 18 September 2017. We encourage applications from a diverse range of people, backgrounds and experiences.

public notice

Executive Officer South Coast Primary Care Partnership Full Time - limited term contract until 30 June 2019 (Potential for extension subject to funding) The South Coast Primary Care Partnership (SCPCP) is one of 28 PCPs across the state of Victoria, funded by the Department of Health and Human Services. It is a voluntary partnership of 29 health and community organisations, who have worked together over the past 16 years towards achieving better health outcomes for the community across the South Coast (Bass Coast and South Gippsland Local Government Areas). The South Coast Primary Care Partnership, with Bass Coast Health (BCH) as the auspice body, is located in Wonthaggi. This senior leadership position reports to the Chair of the South Coast PCP Steering Group which comprises seven tier one member organisations. Key deliverables for the South Coast PCP include building the capacity of the health service system in the catchment through partnership development, integrated health promotion (prevention), service coordination and improved access to services (health literacy and diversity). The Executive Officer duties include: • Leadership and partnership development • Strategic planning and implementation using the social model of health approach • Health service system development • Project management and evaluation • Stakeholder relations, marketing and communication • Provision of executive support to the governance group • Budgetary and staff management To be considered for this role you will have: • Tertiary qualifications or equivalent relevant experience in public health, health and community services or a related field • Experience in program management and development • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills • Proven experience and sound knowledge of primary health and community services sectors • An understanding of the social model of health and the determinants of health and their impact on populations • Demonstrated understanding of the current national and state primary health reform program • The ability to work independently and within a team, and be a highly motivated and self-starter. A position description is available on the BCH website. For further information about the position please contact Mel Hibbins, Executive Officer, South Coast PCP on 0439 452 195. Applications should include a covering letter addressing the key selection criteria, your resumé and 2 professional referees and be addressed to the Human Resources Officer - email to: Pat.Grasby@basscoasthealth.org.au Applications close 12 noon on Thursday 28 September 2017

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017 - PAGE 43

agistment

for sale

wanted to buy

livestock

AGISTMENT wanted urgently for quiet cows and calves. Prefer long term. Ph: 5668-7234.

HAY - small squares, new season, shedded, no weeds. Can deliver, conditions apply. Produced for horses (quality), $8 each. Ph: 5664-1320.

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

BULLS for hire or for sale. Friesian, Angus, Hereford, Limo or Jersey. All sound young bulls. Hire or sale. Phone 0447-331762.

HAY small square bales, good for horses and cattle, $8 each, Kardella. Ph: 5662-2074.

wanted to buy

WANTED agistment / lease, 100 - 400 acres. Turnout block. Flexible terms. Good rates. Ph: 0400-295050.

for sale BABY car seat, Mother’s Choice, excellent condition, $80. Ph: 0400-569890. EXPRESSION of interest for house for removal. Ph: 0417321196. FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408980-711, A/H 56625175.

situations vacant

for sale

WANTED HOME TO BUY

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200 x 50 x 2.4 $12.10 each, 200 x 75 x 2.4 $16.75 each, 200 x 75 x 3.0 $ 20.90 each. Free delivery for pack lots. Phone Joe 0417530662.

Professional retiree moving to South Gippsland. 3-4 Bedroom Home with room to garden. Will spend up to $700,000 for the right property. If you think your property may suit, please call Irene Walker at SEJ Real Estate on 0429 045 632

TIMBER Kiln dried blackwood, silver wattle, cypress, celery top pine, most sizes for furniture and craft, also slabs and structural pine. Ph: 5681-2261.

Leongatha Phone: 5662 4033 Email: iwalker@sej.com.au

SM McRae Engineering is currently seeking a to work in its fabrication workshop and/or onsite This is a full time permanent position for immediate start and is an ideal opportunity for a hard working experienced tradesman to work as part of a team or as an individual on jobs varying from construction of hay sheds and dairies, fabrication and repairs to farm and earth moving equipment, fabrication and erection of structural steel for housing to small jobs for the general public. Work hours are 7:30am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday with the opportunity to work overtime. Wages negotiable. To apply please phone Shaun on 0427 343 498 and arrange a time to drop off a resumé and discuss further.

QUALIFIED MOTOR MECHANIC Foster Tyres & Service Centre require a full time suitably qualiﬁed Motor Mechanic (3rd or 4th year apprentices welcome to apply), for their busy workshop in Foster, South Gippsland. Foster Tyres is an expanding business, specialising in car and 4WD repairs, tyre sales and we are also an Ironman 4x4 dealer and Repco authorised service centre. Duties will include light vehicle servicing, all repairs and maintenance on car and 4WDs, some 4WD accessory ﬁtting and auto electrical work. Above award wages will apply for the right candidate. Must be able to work every second Saturday. Email applications to fostertyres@dcsi.net.au before 5pm September 22. For more information contact Clint during business hours on 56 821 211.

SHOWROOM SALES CONSULTANT Capeview Building Products are suppliers of quality kitchen & bathroom joinery, robe systems, shower screens, security doors and windows. An opportunity exists for a person to join Capeview as a Showroom Sales Consultant. You will require the following skillset. • Excellent customer service with knowledgeable advice • Preparation of quotations and sales orders • Able to co-ordinate installation of showroom products • Maintaining showroom presentation • Effective communicator • Able to work autonomously and as part of a team • Competent computer skills Experience in kitchen, security door and shower screen sales would be an advantage. Onsite training is provided. Applications in writing including a covering letter and CV addressed to: Peter Sheerin, Capeview Building Products, PO Box 115, Wonthaggi 3995. Email: peter.sheerin@cv-bp.com.au Applications close 25th September 2017

in memoriam

deaths

POULTRY / CAGE BIRD AUCTION Traralgon Showgrounds Poultry Pavilion, Sunday, September 17, 10.30am. Wide variety of poultry, hens, ducks, many breeds, fertile eggs. Open for sellers from 8am. Ph: 5197 7270.

PEACH - Hilda. 16.9.1915 - 13.9.2007 The years roll on. Loving memories dear Hildy. Barb, Peter, Nat, Rory and Paul, Paul and Vicki Steele and Bede.

LAING - Stuart Mitchell. Peacefully passed away Monday, September 11, 2017, aged 83 years. He is survived by his wife Kathlyn, children David and Michelle, father-in-law to Vivienne and Peter. Grandchildren Teagan and husband Shane, Lachlan (dec), Duane, Scott, Kate, Cameron and Ellie, great grandchildren Makayala and Kalani. He was greatly loved and will be missed.

used vehicles

deaths

TOYOTA HILUX 2001, 4x4 single cab, 3lt diesel, 245,000kms, 120,000kms engine, steel tray, RWC, 12 months rego. Good work ute (1CV20E), $10,500. Ph: 0417-990558.

BABOS - Mark. 16.07.1954 - 06.09.2017 An extremely generous and passionate man. Adored husband of Sandra and father of Madeleine and Susannah.

meetings

16.07.54 - 06.09.17 Mark Babos My Brother Love Alec Babos

MEENIYAN YOUTH HALL

AGM

situations vacant

BOILERMAKER/STEEL FABRICATOR

livestock

situations vacant

WALKERVILLE FORESHORE RESERVE & CAMPING GROUND

TUESDAY September 19 7pm McLean Street Meeniyan All welcome

garage sales

Walkerville North Victoria The Walkerville Foreshore Reserve Committee of Management invites tenders from contractors for the management services of the Walkerville Camping Ground and the Foreshore Reserve. The 3-year Contract will be a lump sum contract subject to price adjustments annually by the CPI. The Contractor will be supervised by the Foreshore Manager overseen by the Committee with the anticipated starting date being early November 2017. The duties will include overall maintenance of the camping ground and reserve, rubbish collection and disposal, cleaning of all toilet blocks and showers, maintaining and managing the park water supply. Using the committee’s computer and booking program, booking of all camp sites and collection of camp fees and dealing on a daily basis with the interaction of our visitors to the 133 sites along the Walkerville Foreshore. Parking and trafﬁc management at Walkerville South over the busy summer period. The contractor will need to live in the house on the reserve and throughout the year the contractor will be required daily with some scope to work outside the reserve over the quieter winter period. PRE TENDER MEETING : All interested contractors will attend a pre tender meeting that will be held at the Walkerville North Hall Bayside Drive Walkerville on Sunday 24th September 2017 at 11 am. CLOSE OF TENDERS: Tenders will be clearly marked “ Tenders for Contractor Walkerville Foreshore Reserve.” They will be lodged at the tender box -South Gippsland Shire Ofﬁce 9 Smith St Leongatha by 3pm October 6th. ENQUIRES REGARDING THIS CONTRACT Ring or email Bill Bray President WFSCof Mgt 0429 307 561 bray@tpg.com.au.

tenders

Mail Delivery Contract Australia Post is seeking tenders from companies, or persons willing to form companies, to deliver mail under contract arrangements in the Delivery Area listed below. Australia Post has a commitment to providing a consistent and personal service to its customers. Therefore, as far as practicable the successful tenderer should be able to supply the same personnel to deliver the articles each day in the Delivery Area. The successful tenderer will have sufficient time to make arrangements to comply with the conditions of the contract, including the procurement of a suitable vehicle. Training will initially be provided to the successful tenderer, who is then required to train its own personnel. All genuine tenders and enquiries are welcome. However, Australia Post is not obliged to accept the lowest or indeed any tender, and reserves the right to accept or reject any or all tenders if it considers that it is in the interests of Australia Post to do so.

INVITATIONS TO TENDER FOR ROADSIDE DELIVERY Tenders are invited for the delivery of Roadside Delivery Service commencing 19 October 2017 for the following area. MS No Service Description Frequency Approx Hrs per Week 802397 LEONGATHA – LEONGATHA SOUTH 5 days per week 26 hrs 00 min Tenderers can obtain tender details and forms by contacting: The Manager, Leongatha Delivery Centre; Tele: 03 5662 5694 or vic.rfp@auspost.com.au Tenders must be submitted by the closing time to: vic.rfp@auspost.com.au or Mail Contracts Management (Vic) Level 1 / 111 Bourke Street, Melbourne Vic 3000

Tenders Will Close, Wednesday 20 September 2017 @ 4:00pm

GARAGE SALE The “STAR” can help you promote your event with our

$27.50 GARAGE SALE KIT KIT INCLUDES 5cm x S/C advert (valued at $33.00) • 2 x A4 Garage Sale Signs • Garage Sale Tips (dos and don’ts) • Sheet of Price Stickers • Star Carry Bag

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

marriage celebrant

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

PAM HERRALD 5662 2553 0438 097 181

Wendy Rutjens

Weddings ~ Funerals ~ Namings

0429 688 123 e: rutjenswendy@gmail.com

in memoriam KEE - James Victor (Vic). 11.9.1997 KEE - Rodney John. 30.4.1958’ Forever in our hearts and minds. Dearly loved. Thelma, Bill, Greg and families. NEYLAND - Graeme. 12.12.1936 - 11.9.2016 Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Beautiful memories. Loved you dearly. Val, David, Leanne, Karen, Jennifer and families.

BABOS - Marc. Paula, David, Jarrod, Garth, Hayley and Hamish are deeply saddened by the passing of Marc, a great brother-in-law and uncle. Our deepest sympathy to Sandra, Madeleine, Susannah and family. Forever in our hearts and always will be remembered. BABOS - Mark. You were more like family than our friend. We will never forget your kindness, generosity and good humour. Your zest for life was, and remains, inspirational. To Sandra, Madeleine and Susannah, the family you adored, our heartfelt sympathy and love go out to you. Mark will live on in our hearts and memories. Rest in peace Mark. Thank you for being a special part of our lives. Angie, Neville and Sarah Ford. BRANNAN - Christine. Passed away peacefully on September 10, 2017. Much loved mum to Jak, Danielle, Peter and Suzie. A proud and loving nanna to Jackson, Jordy, Jakob, Lacey and Brodie. She was a mum and best friend to many others and will be forever in all our hearts. We all love you. Please see Herald Sun for funeral details. BRANNAN - Christine. Beautiful memories Silently kept Of one that we loved And will never forget. Loved friends, Bernadette, Irene and Jill.

Please see Herald Sun for funeral details. SMITH - Pamela Maree. 1952 - 2017 Passed away peacefully at Leongatha Hospital on September 9, 2017. Beloved wife to Joe. Much loved mum to Jason and Ella, Brooke and Jack. Treasured Granny to Lucca and Vinny. No longer in pain. Rest in peace. SMITH - Pam. Darling Pammy, Thanks for being a great friend and good mate throughout the years. Rest peacefully. Condolences to Joey, Jason and Brooke. - Deb Fowles.

funerals BABOS - The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Mr Marc Marian (Mark) Babos will be held at the Dakers Centre, corner of Smith and Watt Streets, Leongatha on Thursday, September 14, 2017 commencing at 11am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Leongatha Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Envelopes will be available at the service.

SMITH - A Graveside Service to celebrate the life of Pamela Maree (Pam) Smith will be held at the Inverloch Lawn Cemetery on Thursday, September 14, 2017 commencing at 2pm. All welcome.

Classified advertising closes 12 noon Mondays

Most photos that appear in The Star can be purchased by calling 5662 2294.

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Go Foster: Hannah Charlton and Bylee Angwin from Foster were at the Meeniyan Massive win: MDU took home four premiers on Saturday and A Grade won the grand final Recreation Reserve on Saturday to cheer on the Tigers. for the first time in 40 years.

Carn the pies: Lily McDonald from Yarram and Charlotte Crawford from Binginwarri were keen to see the Magpies win on Saturday, at the Alberton Football Netball League grand final.

Sharp cheerers: from left, Tracey DeMerlo from Middle Tarwin, and Charlie and Trish Yowney from Pakenham were cheering on the Sharks on Saturday, who played in the Reserves grand final. Foster fans: Zayda and Mylah Angwin from Smiles all ‘round: from left, MDU A Grade coach and best on court Below Cheer on: Shari Harris and Tahlia Lafferty were stand out support- Foster were cheering on the netballers on Ebony Best and captain Kate Lafferty are congratulated on breaking the 40 year A Grade drought by MDU netball president, Tarryn Boden. Saturday at the grand final. ers for MDU on Saturday at the Alberton netball grand final.

On top: Jordyn Browne from Tarwin Lower and Jenna and Tarkyn Colourful supporters: from left, Mackinley O’Sullivan, Ruby Lane Zuidema from Meeniyan were excited to see Stony Creek win the and Ella Schauble were thrilled to see Fish Creek Under 15’s netball team win a premiership on Saturday. Reserves flag on Saturday.

Fishy fans: from left, Grace Wilson, Ashlee Jones and Amber Turves Black and white: Madison Roberts and Anna Rodaughan supported Toora during the Alberton League netball grand final on Saturday. cheered on Fish Creek at the netball grand final on Saturday. Scott and Sharon Anderson With care & dignity we serve South Gippsland and Phillip Island Main Office: WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH 5672 1074 176-178 Graham Street, Wonthaggi 3995 Fax: 5672 1747 email: randm33@bigpond.net.au PHILLIP ISLAND 5952 5171 15 Warley Avenue, Cowes 3922 (by appointment only) Pre-paid & pre-arranged funeral plans available CARING & PERSONAL 24 HOUR SERVICE www.handleyandandersonfunerals.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

Tiger pride: Gemma McCormack, Jaime Chila and Harrison Mahoney from Mirboo North had the eye of the tiger at Saturday’s Mid Demons supporters: Zara Jones and Ayla Lafferty dedicated their day to cheering on MDU netballers at the grand final on Saturday. Gippsland grand final against Yinnar.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017 - PAGE 45

| SPORT

thestar.com.au

Hillberg, Soumilas win top honours

Footballers: Fish Creek’s Liam Howard, MDU’s Brett Thorson, Stony Creek’s Hayden Funnell and Toora’s Lachie Ireland were named rising stars, with Hayden the overall winner. Absent: Foster’s Troy Van Dyke.

U15s: Fish Creek’s Lauren Gale (centre) was the U15s best and fairest winner. Tarwin’s Mikayla Pedlow (left) and Toora’s Stephanie Crawford were runner up best and fairest winners.

Juniors awarded for successful season ALBERTON Football Netball League junior footballers and netballers celebrated the 2017 season with

league presentation recently.

Clubs were well represented and the league’s best players were hon-

oured. As well as best and fairest winners, this year’s rising stars were also recognised.

Netballers: back from left, Foster’s Jayde McGlead, Toora’s Madison Roberts, MDU’s Kayla Redpath, front from left, Foster’s Brylee Angwin and Toora’s Taneka Roffey were this season’s rising stars. Madison was the overall winner.

Charlie Preston: the Stony Creek Jai Bright: the Stony Creek foot- Jayde McGlead: Foster’s star Irene Thorson: MDU’s gun netfootballer was the Thirds’ leading baller was the Thirds’ league best netballer was the 2017 U17s run- baller won the U17s best and fairest award for 2017. ner up best and fairest. goal kicker with 22 goals. and fairest.

Volleyballers debut in State League final THE South Gippsland Junior Girls volleyball team finished a fantastic first year of competition by making the State League grand final.

The team, formed earlier in the year from junior players from the Korumburra Volleyball Association had an amazing debut season, finishing on top of the ladder, only losing one match in the regular season. The team trained on Tuesday nights at Chairo Christian School and Thursdays nights at Leongatha Splash as part of the Korumburra Junior volleyball program. Under the guidance of coaches Tania and Nic Ryan, the girls worked on develop-

ing their skills and match play tactics. All of the girls have shown fantastic improvement throughout the year. Not only can they serve, pass, set, dig and hit much better than at the start of the year, they have also developed teamwork skills and show much greater self confidence,” Nic said. “It is great for these girls who live in rural South Gippsland to compete against teams from Melbourne. They can measure their performance against players from traditional volleyball schools and State League clubs and have shown that they are more than up to the task.” In the grand final, the top of the ladder South Gippsland girls came up against season rival McKinnon Volleyball. In their previous meetings the teams had split the

results. In a highly competitive match played as the curtain raiser to the Premier Women’s grand final on the show court at the State Volleyball Centre, Dandenong, the South Gippsland girls went down 3:1, in four tight sets.

The match was played in front of a raucous crowd of over 100 supporters, family and club members. Numerous spectators commented on the high standard and fantastic entertainment the two teams provided to the large crowd. Former

national team players as well as Premier team coaches were enthusiastic in their praise for the way the girls played. After the match the girls were presented with a silver medal by Olympian and former Australian captain Luke Campbell.

In the past three years Inverloch parkrun has had 2493 participants who have completed 14,998 parkruns covering a total distance of 74,990 km, including 2,711 new personal bests. Volunteers Heather Sullivan, Kate Lew Ton, Heidi Peterson, Macy Peterson, Billie Peterson, Luisa Cester, Wayne Walker and Louise McCall were thanked for their contribution. This week there were visitors from Lismore, Traralgon, Churchill, Pakenham and Chelsea. The first over the line was Michael Tripodi from Traralgon who crossed the line in 18:11. The first female this week was Alycia Marotta, in 13th overall, running a new personal best of 22:32 and beating her son Jake by 25 seconds. It was Alycia’s sixth parkrun and her first First placing. The theme for the birthday was fluoro and there were some great outfits and a delicious fluoro cake. Emma Sullivan and Brett Scorah were electric in their fluoro coordinated outfits and Leah Baud

Inverloch Kongwak’s Andrew Soumilas was a runaway winner of the first Senior football best and fairest medal, while Korumburra Bena superstar Christie Hillberg was a clear winner of the A Grade netball award. Soumilas made his name in the Gippsland League, where he won the Trood Award and Rodda Medal on two separate occasions – for Garfield in 2005 and Drouin in 2011. The gun on-baller spent a season at Narre Warren before returning to Garfield and claiming the Ellinbank and District Football League’s Alf Walton Medal in 2013. Soumilas joined brother Ben at Inverloch-Kongwak last year and his arrival has coincided with an uptick in fortunes for the club. Having finished sixth in 2015, the Sea Eagles played off in the grand final of the Alberton Football Netball League last year and have been the pacesetters in the first season of the newly formed West Gippsland competition, winning the minor premiership and going on to reach this Saturday’s grand final. The 34 year old’s fourth senior league best and fairest award arrived on the back of 10 best-on-ground performances from 18 matches, only polling on one other occasion for a total of 31 votes. Another multiple league medal winner, Brendan Kimber of Phillip Island, was runner up on 20 votes, one ahead of Kilcunda Bass co coach and former Collingwood utility Brent Macaffer on 19. The A Grade netball count was only slightly closer, with Hillberg finishing seven votes clear of Giants teammate and sister Kim Hillberg and Bunyip defender Ebony Mumford. The decorated goal defence tallied 25 of a possible 30 votes between rounds two and 11 on her way to adding the West Gippsland best-and-fairest medal to her six Alberton league awards – all before her 26th birthday. Dalyston’s Andrew Gennaccaro was the Reserves bestand-fairest, while Cora Lynn’s Tristan Fernandez-Phillips and Bunyip’s Sage Tapner scooped the under-18 and under-16 awards respectively. Dalyston pair Melissa Beveridge and Emma Ton took home the B Grade and C Grade medals, with KorumburraBena’s Shae Kyle (U17), Bunyip’s Natalia Dijkstra (U15) and Inverloch-Kongwak’s Asha Boyd Metselaar (U13) collecting the junior netball awards. The Club Championship was awarded to Cora Lynn Football Netball Club.

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.

Achievement: Korumburra Volleyball Association silver medallists and runner up Junior State League champions with coaches Nic and Tania Ryan.

Happy birthday to Invy parkrun INVERLOCH parkrun turned three on the weekend.

IT may be a new competition, but two familiar names were at the fore of the inaugural Alex Scott and Staff West Gippsland Football Netball Competition vote count on Monday night.

was as bright as ever while Julian Walker had some great fluoro hair and with special mentions to Shirley Dell and Ebony Knox. There were a number of milestones this week with three running their 50th parkrun. Michael Giles, Greg Dell (with an excellent costume) and Joanne Parsons all reached the milestone. Kate Lew Ton reached her 25th Volunteer and Nathan Castle ran his 150th parkrun. This week there were 12 personal bests which is a pretty good effort given the cold air and wind. Noel Farmilo, Damien King (starting the push to sub 20), James Barry, Simon Harris, Layla O’Reilly, Lani Cropley, Nicki Liefting, Lyn Harris, Luke Ransom, Rhonda Castle, Shannon Hallam and Alycia Marotta all PB’d. This week we also celebrated our July and August parkrunners of the month with Jack Kennedy winning the July Award. The August award was won by mother and daughter; Lyndal and Heidi Peteron. Male placing: Michael Tripodi of Derek Zoolander Centre for Kids Who Can’t Run Good was

first over the line in 18:11 - first appearance. Glenn Sullivan of Wonthaggi Road Runners, was second over the line in 18:48 - has been first to finish on 54 previous occasions. Scott Morrison was third over the line in 19:09 - has been first to finish on two previous occasions. Female placings: Alycia Marotta of Derek Zoolander Centre for Kids Who Can’t Run Good, was first (13th overall) over the line in 22:32 - first time in six appearances. Ashleigh Salter was second (14th overall) over the line in 22:34 - has been first to finish on 5 previous occasions. Janine Wynen was third (20th overall) over the line in 23:21. The three highest age grades were recorded by: Glenn Sullivan – 78.46 per cent for the time 18:48 (second overall). Michael Tripodi– 75.34 per cent for the time 18:11 (first overall). Luke Ransom – 72.44 per cent for the time 20:12 (4th overall).

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

SEPTEMBER Time

13 WED

14 THUR

15 FRI

16 SAT

17 SUN

18 MON

19 TUE

height (metres)

0439 1015 1639 2238

1.61 0.52 1.54 0.24

0527 1059 1720 2322

1.56 0.57 1.50 0.26

0620 1145 1807

1.50 0.63 1.44

0010 0722 1233 1903

0.31 1.44 0.69 1.38

0104 0831 1333 2015

0.37 1.40 0.74 1.33

0212 0942 1450 2138

0.43 1.39 0.75 1.33

0335 1046 1615 2254

0.46 1.41 0.69 1.37

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

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

SPORT | GOLF Leongatha golf WITH the rain persisting all week there is little to report from Leongatha this week. Tuesday’s competition was cancelled and it was only the most intrepid golfers who ventured out on Thursday and Saturday. On Thursday, only 13 players took on the difficult conditions and it was John Simon who did best with a creditable 34 points to take the honours for the day. Balls were won by Andrew Smith, Colin Bear, Mick Oliver and Neil Mackenzie, and Doug Clemann was NTP at the 16th hole. Saturday also saw the

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effects of the rain as only 11 players braved the elements with Geoff McDonald handling the conditions best to win the day with 31 points in a count back. Balls were won by Rod Mackenzie and Marg Johnson and Ian Watson was NTP on the 14th hole. Let’s hope to see some welcome sunshine this week so golfers can once again enjoy the magnificent course.

Woorayl A SMALL but highly dedicated field took to the rain soaked course on Saturday to try their hand at the popular golfing format of Two Man Ambrose. Some found it easy, some found it hard and a couple of groups really

struggled to put a decent round together. Trophies for the event were provided by Edney’s Nissan, a generous sponsor over many years. The winners were good mates and even better golfers Michael Grist and Warren Turner, who compiled a solid 73 off the stick to give them 67.5 net, earning them the accolades and respect that go along with first place. Runners up were relatively new member Arie Kortekaas and club stalwart Gav Price, who seemed to be a match made in heaven, combining well to compile 78 off the stick, which gave them 68.75 net. Welcome to the club Arie and well done Gav

for swooping on a very handy partner. Balls down the line went to Brian and Ty Hogan with 69.5, a couple of life members Brian Wilson and Frank Dekker with 71 and Jack Howard and John Bolge paired up to claim the last ball, also with 71. Nearest the pin on the eighth was Brian Hogan and on the 17th Frank Dekker. The encouragement award this week went to captain Gary Young and a past president Rodney Goodwin with a very poor score of 75.75 net. It is clear their skills as club executives are better than their abilities as golfers. The “Shed” syndicate claimed the ball raffle.

Next week the event is 4BBB Stableford sponsored by Frank and Jeanie Dekker. Unconfirmed reports are that a steer named Strawberry may be on the list of trophies for the event, so grab a partner and be there or be square.

Meeniyan ATROCIOUS weather caused the Tuesday competition to be cancelled, and dampened the course even further making it hard to get machinery about to maintain our fairways. Thursday was a brighter and better day and the usual crew played in fair conditions but the course was still heavy underfoot and scoring was hard.

Baia shines at nationals BAIA Pugh represented Wonthaggi’s St Joseph’s Primary School at the National Cross Country Championships recently. Held in Rokeby, Hobart, the top six cross country runners in the state finals went to nationals. Baia was fourth in the state in the U10s. After coming first at her school, Baia excelled in all other stages to earn her place at national level. The Victorian U10s team came third. They also participated in a relay the next day and came first. While they weren’t on the track, the runners enjoyed an excursion to Port Arthur.

“The opening ceremony was a good experience, and I got to meet a lot of new friends who like to run,” Baia said. Baia enjoys being active, playing basketball and netball, and training with Wonthaggi Little Athletics. In the past, she has made it to state level in track and field. Her favourite event is the 1500m. The school was proud to see her improve this year and compete at a high level. Baia said she is looking forward to trying out again next year. She also thanked iDIG Developments and Autobarn Wonthaggi for their sponsorship. The donations helped Baia organise her uniform and her trip to Tasmania.

Daryle Gregg managed 35 points followed by Col Stewart on 34 points .Best nine was Jeremy Riddle scoring 21 points and both NTPs went to John Dumont. Saturday saw a reduced field once again due to weather but the hardy souls who turned up enjoyed mainly dry weather bar one shower. The sponsor for the day was Jeremy Riddle and the club thanks and appreciated his effort. The competition was a Stableford aggregate; the sponsor partnered up with Bruce Betts to score a combined 62 points. Runners up were John Dumont and Peter Wilson on 61 points. Pro pin was Kev Harris

and NTP on the eighth was John Dumont. Members draw was Milton Keelde who was not present. Next week is a Singles Stableford.

Foster THIS week’s golf is as follows; Tuesday, September 12: Stableford Wednesday, September 13: Canadian, draw for partners. Thursday, September 14: Stableford. Friday, September 15: Stableford Nine Hole Competition. Saturday, September 16: Four Ball Multiplication, draw for partners. Let’s hope for some better weather.

South Gippsland District Fourball Championship 2017 WOORAYL Golf Club

Results:

Event No 1 18 Holes Scratch (K.MacDonald Shield) Michael McGrath, Terry Lund (Leongatha ............ 70 Event No 2 18 Holes ‘B’ Grade Scratch Brian Dewar, Col Graeme (Meeniyan) ......... 83 Event No 3 18 Holes ‘A’ Grade Handicap Shane Harland, Matt Wrigley (Korumburra) ..... 43 Event No 4 18 Holes ‘B’ Grade Handicap Graeme Brennan, Alan Hayes (Welshpool) .......... 40 Event No 5 9 Holes ‘A & B’ Grades Handicap (Out) Danny Dwyer,

Damien Burge (Woorayl) ......... 20 Event No 6 9 Holes ‘A & B’ Grades Handicap (In) Bret Mottrom, Wayne Kennedy (Lang Lang) ... 20 Event No 7 Nearest the Pin 8th Hole Not claimed Event No 8 Nearest the Pin 17th Hole Trevor Jones

Ball competition

Down the Line (AM) 1. T. Lund & M. McGrath ...... 44pts 2. M. Wrigley & S. Harland .. 43 pts 3. B. Dewar & C. Graeme ..... 41 pts 4. G Brennan & A. Hayes...... 40 pts 5. D. Burge & D. Dwyer........ 38 pts 6. P. Rayson & T. Ryan .......... 37 pts On c/b from B. Wilson & G. Salmon

Wonthaggi heads to Poowong put up valiant fight Nationals Cross country champ: running laps of the oval helped Wonthaggi’s Baia Pugh train for the recent National Cross Country Championships.

POOWONG U16s travelled to Longwarry for the preliminary final to play Buln Buln.

Longwarry and the league did a good job in presenting all games. The Poowong boys under coach Russ McNally have come a long way this year and to be in the preliminary final and have a chance to make it to the big day was not probably expected at the start of the season. To their credit they worked hard at training and followed the game plan. Every player improved over the season and I look forward to next season as all these boys develop their football as they are a great bunch of lads. Poowong kicked to the Garfield end and had a goal

on the board early thanks to a great piece of play from Daniel Simons from the pocket. Buln Buln fought back to level the score and then kicked a late goal to lead by five points at quarter time. The second quarter was where the game was lost by Poowong with Buln adding four goals with Poowong failing to score. The Poowong boys fought hard but things and decisions did not go their way, down by 32 points at half time it was going to be an uphill battle. Poowong came out strongly in the third quarter and worked hard but it did not show up on the scoreboard with both teams scoring a point each. Any chance of the comeback probably went when Jai Newcombe’s kick hit the post. The last quarter the Poowong boys tried valiantly, kicking 2.1 to Buln Buln’s 1.2 to go down 7.6.48 to

3.3.21, a margin of 27 points. Best players were Brian Kelson, Darcy Burgess, Reilly Lewis, Jai Newcombe, Matt Burr and Thomas Hudson. Congratulations to all the Poowong boys on their season and we look forward to seeing you run out in 2018, Thanks to all the committee, coaches, trainers and parents for their assistance on game days with special thanks to Xavier Clarke, the water boy never missed a game and we look forward to 2018 with the club having a lot of positives coming out of 2017. Next week the club wishes the Poowong A Grade Netball (coming from fifth) and the E Grade netball teams (undefeated) all the best in the grand finals. Congratulations from all supporters and we are right behind you in your efforts on Saturday.

Netball played in Kenya CHILDREN in Kenya are enjoying their love of netball, thanks to former Leongatha resident Chelsea Dennison.

Thrilled: the girls in Kenya greatly appreciated the netball donations made by the local netball community, which was delivered to them by former Leongatha resident Chelsea Dennison. Photo courtesy of Stephanie Ranty.

Volunteering with Orphfund, Chelsea travelled to Kenya last year and discovered many of the girls loved netball, but did not have the equipment needed to play. She recently volunteered for Orphfund again and travelled to Kenya and Uganda, taking with her some generously donated sporting equipment. With the support of Netball Victoria, regional development teams and teams affiliated with the Leongatha and District Netball Association, Chelsea was able to make the children’s netball dream come true. The donations included bibs, tracksuits, tops, netballs, whistle, rulebooks and financial aid for netball development. The girls were extremely excited about these donations. Orphfund is always looking for more volunteers. It is a 100 percent volunteer driven organisation, with all money received by volunteers donated back to the children. The organisation is all about changing lives and making a difference. For more information, go to www.orphfund.org.

NATIONALS teams have been published this week and Wonthaggi Table Tennis Association has a big presence once again. This is a brilliant result for a small country association.

The Australian Veteran Table Tennis Championships will be played at Mandurah, Western Australia, from October 7 to14. Internationally recognised umpire and Wonthaggi Association A Grade player Averil Roberts has been appointed as team manager for the Victorian Ladies’ Veteran teams. Dirk Holwerda will captain the Over 65 Victorian A team. Patricia Denier will captain one of the three Over 60 Ladies’ teams. Mick Wright and Michael Ede will both play in the Over 70 Victorian A team, captained by Mick. Another outstanding result is that of Wonthaggi Association player Zach Anstey, who has worked his way up steadily from junior selection in previous years to be the 2017 Under 21 Victorian A Team captain in the National Senior Table Tennis Championships in Adelaide from September 23 -30. The medals tally for all of these players in team and individual results over the years have been astonishing.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017 - PAGE 47

BOWLS | SPORT

thestar.com.au Leongatha WEDNESDAY, September 16 social bowls was washed out so there are no results. On Friday night, September 8 some 70 plus members and friends attended the club’s opening night dinner combined with the first of the 2017/18 Kitty Club nights. The night opened with the Kitty Club’s raffle and MC John O’Connor again at the helm, and a number of folk able to go home with the spoils. The MC for the club’s dinner was the director of men’s bowls, Harry Forrester who first up introduced the club’s chairperson, Mrs Liz Beale who in the club’s 110 years of opening night dinners is the club’s first lady chairperson of the club, and in her opening remarks Mrs Beale said it was an honour to be not just a chairperson of the board of management, but to be the first female chairperson in the club’s history. Mrs Beale then went on to explain how she was first introduced to bowls and over the years she came to understand the principles and operations of a bowls club and that it cannot operate without these many sections/ teams that make up to one big team.Things just don’t happen by chance but by the support of many teams of volunteers. Since joining Leongatha club she has also had her share of success on the greens, not only at Leongatha but around the various clubs that make up the South Gippsland Bowls Division. Mrs Beale was followed by one of the club’s directors, Mr Jeff Pendergast who expressed on behalf of those present a sincere thank you to the club’s catering committee and this was carried with applause. Also to advise the club would be holding a ‘Come and Try Bowls Day’ on Sunday, October 1 in an effort to try and build the membership. The final presentation for the night was the announcement of who was last and who won the club’s footy tipping for the year. I am not going to tell you who was ‘The Lou Richards’ this year but the overall winner, who by the way put all his tips in before heading away for the winter, was Lance Lancaster. Also the club expressed its thanks to Bob Young and Mary Jepson and team for again undertaking the running of the tipping competition. Reminders: To Leongatha members please all lodge your votes associated with the midweek pennant question for change.

Voting slips and ballot box are in the board room with the closing date of September 24. Also ‘Travelling Jack’ will visit the clubrooms on Friday, September 15 to assist with uniforms and ordering, from 10am to 5pm. The ladies briefing session will be on Monday, September 18 at 10am. Pennant practice lists are on the noticeboard and if you wish to play please put your name on the list. State event entry sheets are also on the noticeboard. The first of the club’s monthly triples for the season will be on Wednesday, September 27 with a 9.30am start and BYO lunch. The sponsors for the day will be Alex Scott & Co and the club thanks it for its support. The start of the midweek pennant will see Division 1 at home to Inverloch and Division 3 home to Korumburra. On Tuesday, October 17, while the men’s pennant will see Division 1 away to Wonthaggi, Division 3 are at home to Port Welshpool and Division 4 away to Wonthaggi Gold on Saturday, October 21. Until the next report, good bowling - ‘Jackhigh’.

Fish Creek

IT’S another week closer to the start of bowls season, and hopefully the beginning of the warmer weather. This week begins with the ladies meeting on Wednesday, September 13, at 10 am and the general committee will meet at 7pm on the same evening; both meeting to be held at the club rooms. Summer triples start at Fish Creek on Thursday, September 28, and as usual dress code will be “mufti”. The day will begin at 9:15am for a 9.30am start. Please contact Ferbe on 5683 2284 or Duilio on 5683 2377 to confirm your participation. Midweek pennant officially starts on Tuesday, October 17, and weekend pennant will begin on Saturday, October 21. In light of this, the Saturday selection committee is encouraging all active members to participate in practice sessions and club games on both Wednesday and Friday afternoons between 4 and 5 pm. Last week’s weather was not very conducive, but hopefully this week will see a few more participating.

Mardan

MARDAN Bowls Club held its annual tournament at the Dumbalk hall on Tuesday night. There were six mats in play most with four play-

ers per team so a good role up by the association club members which is appreciated by all at Mardan. Jeanie Baker and Rod McConckie came along as spectators and to join in the fun. The selectors did a real good job as there were no three game winners. The runners up team comprising of George Bentleigh, John Chadwick, Margaret Campbell and skipped by Rob Matties had a score of two wins 14 ends and plus three shots. The team that took home the prize was skipped by Charlie Tomino the master of the unbelievable shot when cornered. Gwenda Beuin was lead Denyse Menzies played second and Glennis Pilkington played the killer third. They had a score of two wins, 15 ends and plus nine shots. President Ann Plowman devised a little novelty and those whoi won the chocolates thought rather sweet. Ann also set the games for the night and conducted the raffle and thanked everyone for assisting also attending and closed the night wishing all a safe trip home. Bowlers please note it is back to Mardan for next Wednesday. That’s all for this week, RG.

South West Gippsland Midweek Bowls Group LAST Thursday at San Remo, there were 21 bowlers who made the most of the conditions. They managed to get a full 12 ends in during the morning. After lunch, eight ends were managed before the rains came bringing the day to a premature end. There were only two two-game winners with the day’s winners being the team skippered by Peter McWilliams along with Sean McWilliams and Elaine Williams. The runners up only one point behind were the team skippered by Jan Coates playing with Tony McKernon and Brian Potter. Best one game winner was the team skippered by Charlie Wright along with Lindsay Russell, Elaine Fitt and Reg Excell. Next Thursday is the winter breakup at Corinella. This will take the form of a fun day. You won’t know what is happening until it does. Lots of interesting things to do, all while playing bowls.

Inverloch IN spite of inclement weather on Wednesday, September 6, men and ladies dusted off their club uniforms and came to welcome in the new bowling season. As is customary, the ladies and men’s champions had the honour of rolling the first jack and bowl of the season. The sun peeked out and so the members came out to watch Wayne Parks, runner up men’s champion taking the role for Frank Seaton, and Janis Parks, ladies champion, roll the jack and they each sent a bowl down the green to officially open the new season. Then it was back into the clubrooms before the heavens opened to enjoy an early afternoon tea. Thanks to all who provided the food. Empty trays indicated that the offerings were well received. Although no bowling took place, it was nice to welcome back returning members. The club will now start its summer bowling season with Wednesday and Thursday being our social bowls days. There has been a change of days for the social bowls. Those who bowled on Thursday and played monthly triples on this day, will now bowl on Wednesday. Therefore, last year’s Wednesday bowlers will play social bowls on Thursday. Start time remains the

Meeniyan THE very successful weekly Monday winter bowls program concluded on August 21 with no wash-outs. Thanks to Keith, Max,

Big day: opening the Inverloch bowling season was Wayne Parks, men’s champion runner up standing in for Frank Seaton, with director of bowls Cynthia Hensley and ladies’ champion Janis Parks. same. Names in by 11.30am for a 12.30pm start. John Sutcliffe, standing in for president Ron Burge, had the honour presenting Joan Clark with a 90th birthday certificate from Bowls Vic. Joan started bowling about five years ago, wanting a new challenge after leaving golf. She has become a handy bowler with a reputation of being all over the kitty. Joan also played in Division 4 Tuesday Pennant which won the flag. Members of the club would like to wish all the best to Joan; may there be many more years of bowling in your future. The first News and Views will be held on Thursday, September 14, at 11am. This is the time to find out what is happening around the club now and what is planned in the coming months. It is also a forum to get answers to any questions you have.

After the meeting, Social Bowls will be played starting at 12.30pm. Reminder that men’s and ladies’ state events can be found in the white binder near the noticeboard. Upcoming events that are closing for entrants soon are the Over 60’s

Larraine, Les, the wonderful sponsors and all the soup makers for helping to make it such a popular event. Bowlers now turn to the summer program which kicked off on Thursday,

September 7, with monthly triples and 16 teams participating. Sponsor for the day was Meeniyan Area Community Shop. Winners were Dave

Milestone: congratulations to Joan Clark on receiving a 90th birthday certificate from Bowls Vic. John Sutcliffe had the honour of presenting the certificate to Joan at the club opening.

Hard focus: Foster Bowls Club member Jim O’Day in action during the monthly triples on Wednesday morning held in Meeniyan.

Women’s Singles closing on September 13, Over 60’s Men’s Singles closing on September 18 and the Over 60’s Women Pairs closing on September 29. There is no entry fee payable this year. This Friday is members night. Christie, Tim McLean and Bill Symmons (Fish Creek) with Dino and Lucy Vignocchi and John Richardson (Toora) runners up. Best last game went to Maurie Briscoe, John Chadwick and Bert Bright (Mirboo North). The September calendar of events includes the opening night casserole tea on Friday 15 at 6pm to be followed by the opening of the season on Saturday 16 at 1 pm. Saturday, September 23, is the Memorial Day pairs at 1pm with Saturday, September 30, being the grand final social day – bowls and lunch at 11.30am. If you haven’t been bowling over the winter period it’s time to dust of the bowls, make sure the bowls gear hasn’t shrunk and get on the green. Upshot 2.

Miners to play finals THE South Gippsland Miners are making a big finish to their season. Last weekend, the U13s lost the preliminary final against Traralgon three to one after finishing the home and away season second on the ladder. The U16s lost the preliminary final 11 to eight to Sale. Both junior teams came along way from the start of the season where they struggled to fill teams to both playing in the finals.

The home and away season saw C Grade finish fifth on the ladder, improving a lot from last year. A Grade finished third on the ladder, making the preliminary final in Sale played last Sunday against Moe/ Newborough. C Grade went in as under dogs but came away with a great 11 to five win some great pitching from Mitch Bowen. He threw eight of the nine innings leaving club president Tim Katz to pitch the final innings. Tim along with Mitch also had a

very good day with the bat and others to get multiple hits were Stewie Matherson hitting a three run home run and Jacob Bardwell having two hits. The grand final will be played next Sunday at South Gippsland Miners home field Federation Oval on Nerenna Road in Leongatha. C grade will be Moe v Churchill from 9am, followed by B Grade Traralgon v Moe and the at 2pm Traralgon v South Gippsland. It’s the Miner’s first senior final, only being in the Latrobe Valley league for three seasons.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

SPORT |

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Knights slay Dragons for grand final spot Womens

THE Leongatha Lady Knights travelled to Phillip Island to play the Drouin Dragons in the first semi-final, playing for a spot in the soccer grand final.

It was a strong, competitive match showing determination from both sides. Composed passing from the talented Tammy to Hayleigh to Kathy, gave the determined Sarah an early goal and the Lady Knights were on their way to victory. With the Lady Knight’s tight defence, Reen (Lorena), Pauline, Jemima, captain Bethany, Tammy and Iznaya, keeping the attacking Drouin Dragons out from scoring a goal, it wasn’t long before the amazing Kathy kicked her first goal for the half, another to Kathy would follow and the Lady Knight’s took a three goal to nil lead over Drouin Dragons into the half time break.

With an early goal in the second half of the match to the ‘evergreen’ Kathy (Kathy would finish with four goals for the day), the Lady Knights dominate team play was paying off. Hard running and determined ‘winger’ Jordan was working overtime and the ‘midfielder’ Sarah was showing her class. ‘Forward’ Rachel was in great position all game and was rewarded with a goal at the 60 minute mark. Annemieke was tireless in the mid-field, turning Drouin’s attack into Knights forward balls. Drouin Dragons worked hard all day and were finally rewarded with a goal late in the game. The Lady Knights once again slayed the Drouin Dragons, running out winners six goals to Drouin Dragons one goal, booking their place in the soccer grand final in two weeks time. Again, it was a great strong and impressive effort from the amazing Lady Knights against a strong Drouin Dragons opposition.

Concentration: Knights’ Kathy Zacharopoulos played an impressive match against the Drouin Dragons.

Stars shoot to the finals U14s minor premiers the Inverloch Stars have booked a place in the 2017 final and are now looking for back-to-back titles in this age group.

They won fairly comfortably against Leongatha five to two on Sunday at Newhaven Recreation Reserve and will meet the winner of next week’s semi final between Phillip Island and Mirboo North. It was Leongatha that started the stronger of the two sides with its first significant foray into the Inverloch half resulting in a well taken goal to Angus Kemper. This shock got the minor premiers going; Inverloch controlled the midfield throughout the rest of the first half with Liam Chiappini and Jack Duff pivotal to this dominance. Tornado twosome of Toby Challinor and Luca Gleeson constantly forged towards the Leongatha

goal. Luca was quickly on the scoreboard and Toby earned a penalty, well taken by co-captain Finn Gleeson. Inverloch rounded out the first half with goals from Liam Chiappini and a spectacular headed effort from Toby Challinor. In the second half Leongatha again started with a bang, quickly on the board through Hayden Clark. A quick reshuffle and Ben Clements moved up forward and his run had immediate effect. The remainder of the half saw both sides test out their opponent’s defenses, both keepers making key saves. Oscar Ward and Noah Anderson kept things tight at the back and Luca Spruhan provided some needed grunt to blunt any Leongatha attacks. Co-captain Maverick Mattheson mopped up everything that got through, only underlining his crucial role with the team. For Leongatha, Evie Bath and Eddie Colwill battled hard in their defensive half. Five to two was the final score. For Inverloch the next stop is Drouin’s Bellbird Fast feet: Inverloch’s Toby Challinor attempts to manoeuvre around the Leongatha keeper Park for the final in two weeks. in the U14s match for a goal.

Calling all Nippers INVERLOCH Surf Life Saving Club has now opened its bookings for the Summer Nipper Program and is advising families to get in quick as it’s ‘first come first served basis’ with applications.

Water safety: Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club is seeking new Nippers to learn the ropes on the beach.

Last season, the club ran the program for 200 children across the U7 to U14 age groups. The program is designed to improve beach and surf skills and age appropriate sessions are held. The U7s enjoy lots of beach games and getting used to the smaller waves whilst the older groups tackle the bigger

waves, first aid, basic resuscitation and the popular board skills. This year the program will run in the mornings over a two week period – December 27, 28, 29 and January 2, 3, 4 and 5 with a Nipper Carnival on the January 6. A parent is required to stay at the beach during the sessions whilst age managers and water safety members run the program. There are vacancies for any interested parents to join the team. Further details and applications can be viewed on the club’s website – www. islsc.org.au under the juniors tab. Surf life saving clubs within the Bass district also offer Nipper Programs but times and dates may vary. Check websites for further details.

New home for OMK OMK Cricket Club anticipates its new ground will be ready for the season opener at the start of October.

The club has been working towards building a new ground for two and a half years. To make the project happen, land was donated by the Lamers family, that has been a member of the club for many years. South Gippsland Shire Council recently gave the club a nod with a building permit, so the project is well underway. OMK now has four senior sides and three junior sides, all battling for a place to train and play. It is the first time in around seven years OMK has filled all three junior sides. “We have one ground in Outtrim, and we share Korumburra Secondary College with Korumburra,” club president Russell White said. “Our C2 side train wherever it can, and

often travel to Tarwin or Leongatha to play a ‘home game’. We felt we needed a new ground closer to Outtrim, and the Lamers family donated us five acres.” Outtrim’s Luke Lamers has played with the OMK Cricket Club since juniors, and now has sons playing in the juniors as well. “It’s good to see more children enjoying their cricket, but it has been full on for the club. We are happy to help out where we can,” Lamers said. Next on OMK’s to do list is to build a new driveway, a car park and shelter for the ground. Russell said cricketers were likely to play on it in round one, as it has drained well despite the wet weather. “The club is grateful for the donation from the Lamers family and for the support from the community,” he said. OMK Cricket Club is in full swing gearing up for the start of the season, and has been training for the past three weeks.

Season ready: Outtrim’s Luke Lamers (left) was thanked by OMK Cricket Club president Russell White for donating five acres of his land for a new cricket ground. They believe it is likely cricketers will be able to use the new ground in round one.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 49

FOOTBALL | SPORT

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Bulldogs bow out of finals PHILLIP Island’s Seniors grand final hopes were dashed by Cora Lynn in last weekend’s preliminary final. Proving that it deserved its place in the grand final, the Cobras thumped the Bulldogs by almost 100 points. Phillip Island entered the match ready for a fight, having forced Dalyston to bow out of the finals race in the semi final. Cora Lynn quickly stamped its authority on the match by kicking four first term goals. Key forwards Nathan Langley and Jason Toan wreaked havoc against Phillip Island, but goal kicking was shared between multiple goal kickers. Phillip Island got one goal passed Cora Lynn’s defence, showing it would not surrender.

The Bulldogs fired up in the second quarter and kicked three goals. Phillip Island’s goal kickers were Jack Taylor, Steven Pimm, Shane Taylor and Matthew Jackson. However, Cora Lynn retaliated and piled on five of its own goals going into the long break. Cora Lynn was merciless in the second half and Phillip Island could not stop it from hitting targets. Phillip Island couldn’t break through and remained scoreless in the third quarter, and with one extra point in the fourth quarter. Cora Lynn powered home to an 89 point victory. The Cobras will now face Inverloch Kongwak at Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve this Saturday in the final showdown.

Tough match: Cora Lynn sealed its place in the West Gippsland league grand final after a massive win over Phillip Island on Saturday.

Fighting finish for the Breakers SUNDAY’S morning showers cleared as the athletes arrived at Casey Fields VFL oval for the South Eastern Women’s Football (SEWF) Development League Grand final: Bass Coast Breakers vs Tyabb Yabbies.

lifted pace. It played a clean possessive quarter which resulted in three goals and a point, giving them a 14 point lead at half time. The breakers found themselves in new territory. This was the first time all season they found themselves trailing at half time. As with all challenges they had previously faced, The Bass Coast Breakers had a fast and furious the Breakers took the hurdle in their stride and learnt journey to the top of ladder over the year. how to beat it. A newly formed team, and the first women’s AFL The third quarter saw both teams rising to the team for our area, it played its first practice match fight. against Bunyip in May and finished the season in AuTyabb led with another goal from Katie Dean, her second for the game. Close match: Dalyston’s Ash Chetland, Aaron Powell and Michael Harris descend on the ball, gust without defeat. What began as a motley crew struggling to get A few minutes later Bass Coast’s Jade Macdertrying to stop their Phillip Island opponent in a Reserves preliminary final that went down to numbers over the pre-season, turned into strong and mid kicked a perfect goal from a free in front of the the wire. formidable team acing each challenge that came its goal square – her relief was visible with her shoulway. ders uncurling once the kick was straight. While it At the league presentation dinner held last week, was clear she felt the pressure, she could not have the Breakers captain Sophie Bolding won SEWF De- known that this goal would spur a streak for the velopment League Best and Fairest with 26 votes. Breakers in the final quarter. Breakers team leader, founder and coordinator Going into the final quarter, Bass Coast played Ella Angarane was awarded with SEWF Volunteer as a team who had nothing to lose and everything of the Year. to gain. A final in any sport is always a different ball Their team work and possession was strong leadgame; it’s a match where teams are forced to rely on ing to two quick goals, one each from Chelsea Boldtheir fitness, hunger and drive rather than the notches ing and Tess Angarane. their belt. In finals football anything can happen, Seven minutes into the fourth quarter the BreakA ONE point margin earned the Phillip working overtime and kept Dalyston scoreless. in and Sunday’s match was great example of this. ers were trailing by one point. However, once again, Phillip Island wasn’t Island Reserves a spot in the grand fiThe first few minutes of the game involved the Tyabb responded with an increased intensity hitting targets and was still 10 points behind at expected nervous scramble. nal. and determination. It managed a strong and reliable three quarter time. The low scoring first quarter would set the pace Coming up against old rivals Dalyston, the The fourth quarter had spectators on the edge for the rest of the match. Both teams showed great defence for the next thirteen minutes, keeping the crowds on the edge of their seats. Both teams bought stakes were high on both sides. of their seats. tenacity and determination from the fi rst bounce. their A-game in this final quarter making for a sensaDalyston had a great start to the game, kicking Phillip Island came roaring back with two A composed goal by Breakers mid fielder Tayla four early goals and leaving Phillip Island with goals, keeping Dalyston to a point. For Phillip Stahl-Smith set the Bass Coast girls in front, finish- tional game to watch and be a part of. As the final siren blew an elated Tyabb celebrated just one point. Island, Kevin Taylor was the lead goal kicker and ing the first quarter 1.2.8 to Tyabb 0.4.4. its win and final score of 4.5.29 against Bass Coast The second term was tough on both sides. Dalyston’s was Peter Dunlop. Tyabb started the second quarter with a fire in its 4.4.28. It doesn’t get much closer than that. Dalyston’s inaccurate kicking kept it well within The two goals put Phillip Island a point ahead, belly which was noticeable in its aggression and a Despite the final result, our local women’s AFL Phillip Island’s reach. team finished its game, and season, on Sunday playand Dalyston couldn’t get ahead before the final Phillip Island converted a few of its efforts siren. ing the best footy it has played all season. This is a sign of great things to come as women’s into goals, but did not do enough to take the lead Phillip Island will go head to head with Koo Powell, A. Wallis, J. Brooker, football grows nationally and locally. before the long break. Wee Rup for the premiership flag at the Wont- Preliminary final M. Schreck, M. Harris. Cora Lynn 18.8.116 Coach Steve Kenny emphasises how remarkable In the third term, Phillip Island’s defence was haggi Recreation Reserve on Saturday. THIRDS Phillip Island 4.3.27 this season has been for the Bass Coast Breakers, the Garfield 3.11.29 Cora Lynn goals: N. Langley first women’s football team for Bass Coast. 4, J. Toan 3, N. Gillis 2, J. Rout Inverloch Kongwak 2, J. Dalton 2, H. Briggs 1, B. 2.8.20 “Watching the Breakers throw everything at White 1, T. Woodfield 1, B. Garfield goals: J. Bow 1, N. Tyabb in the last quarter was just sensation,” Steve Weller 1, L. Peluso 1. Glen 1, B. Coffey 1. Kenny said. Phillip Island goals: S. Pimm Inverloch Kongwak goals: J. After the long break, IK was geared up to 1, S. Taylor 1, M. Jackson 1, Scott 1, J. Hutchinson 1. ALTHOUGH Garfield ultimately “The way in which the team conducted itself after J. Taylor 1. Garfield best: D. Denysenko, the game, and the players got around each other, is claimed a spot in the Thirds grand final, make a comeback. Cora Lynn best: W. Thomas, M. Dyball, N. Glen, J. Bow, A. amazing and highlights our strong culture.” Once again, Garfield didn’t manage to do any C. Johnson, T. Payne, N. Gillis, McMillan, W. Collins. Inverloch Kongwak continued to fight White, B. Weller. Inverloch Kongwak best: J. Breakers captain Sophie Bolding echoes Steve’s damage on the scoreboard, and a goal from IK B. Phillip Island best: M. Griffin, Pryor, L. Cairnduff, H. Smith, until the end. sentiment. M. Jones, N. Higginson, J. TayJ. Hutchinson, M. Toussaint, Z. put the Sea Eagles two points behind. IK made a slow start to the game, only kicking lor, A. Cook, B. Kimber. “Playing for and leading the Bass Coast Breakers Van Delft. IK’s goal scorers on the day were Jack RESERVES FOURTHS this year has been such a special experience,” Sophie two behinds in the first quarter. Phillip Island 5.5.35 Bunyip 3.9.27 said. Its defence held strong, but Garfield man- Hutchinson and James Scott. Dalyston 4.10.34 Garfield 3.7.25 The last quarter was tough with more points “I feel truly grateful to call these women my team Phillip Island goals: K. Taylor aged to get one goal by it before the first siren Bunyip goals: H. Morgan-Mor2, R. McKenzie 1, H. Shawmates and friends. We all respect each other and are ris 2, M. Nadenbousch 1. piled onto the scoreboard. sounded. cross 1, J. Keating 1. eld goals: B. Friend 2, O. inspired by each other and I think that, as much as In the end, Garfield managed to get three goals Dalyston goals: P. Dunlop 2, J. Garfi Some inaccurate kicking by Garfield kept IK Whibley 1. our commitment and training, is a part of our sucBrooker 1, A. Wallis 1. Bunyip best: W. Papley, S. for the day to IK’s two. in it, as it piled on four behinds. Phillip Island best: B. Hamcess.” Tapner, H. Booth, J. Pope, H. Garfield cemented its spot in this weekend’s ilton, T. Cleeland, H. Shaw- Morgan-Morris, W. Gray. IK could not pick up any momentum going If you are interested in being involved in the 2018 cross, R. McKenzie, J. KeatGarfield best: L. Sauze, T. into the second quarter, but Garfield’s forwards grand final by nine points. It will play Cora Lynn ing, R. Linford. season, follow the Bass Coast Breakers on Facebook Fitzpatrick, B. Elliott, T. Miller, Dalyston best: D. Brown, A. Z. Soutar, B. Friend. www.facebook.com/aflwbcoast. in this weekend’s grand final at Wonthaggi. were also left near scoreless.

Narrow margin wins preliminary

Tough battle in the Thirds

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Giants gear up for grand final KORUMBURRA Bena’s B Grade and U15s will join the A Grade in the pursuit for the premiership flag on the weekend. This year it was a new competition and a slightly different line up from season 2016. The B Grade team has struggled with some serious injuries; fortunately all players will be on deck for this year’s grand final. It is a versatile team that is able to throw the odd curve ball. The height and court smarts of the goalers cause other teams with trouble, with their sharp passing and accurate shooting. The B Grade mid courters are able to change the speed of the game with some quick switching plays and the strength and height of the defenders make it hard for other teams to rebound. This year’s final see Korumburra Bena take on Dalyston; these teams have had some hard fought games throughout the season. Dalyston won both

home and away matches with the largest margin being eight. The second semi final saw Korumburra Bena take a strong hold on the game at half time and didn’t leave any petrol in the tank, storming to the final whistle with a 35 goal win. With Dalyston leading this year’s head to head by one, Korumburra Bena will be looking to even the score with a win this Saturday. In the U15s, Alanna Besley and Shelley Snooks have coached together this year proving to be a good mix of youth and experience. Both have a passion for the club and a good understanding of the importance of success and participation at this level. This U15 team is a special group of girls with a huge amount of versatility and talent. During selections at the start of the season, it was very clear that for the future of the club it needed and wanted to keep all of these players. They have grown from 12 individuals and developed into a cohe-

sive unit both on and off the court. They have met Phillip Island three times this season so far and have won one and lost

two of these encounters. After fighting through the first final draw against IK, the Korumburra-Bena girls

have only become more determined each week. The accuracy of their goalers, their smooth transition through the midcourt, along with

their relentless defensive pressure all over the court will make this grand final a great spectacle on Saturday.

A GRADE PLAYER PROFILES

Annelise Van Rooye Anna’s on court experience and judgment of play gives her the ability to pick off balls and create turnovers throughout the defence end. Anna’s voice on and off court helps direct play and her physicality on her opponent often leaves her attacker frustrated.

Tarli Hillberg Tarli’s consistency and determination this year has created a lot of stabilisation in the attack. Her explosive drives onto the ring and strong feeding into the goalers has created lots of scoring opportunities for our dominant goalers.

Jacquie Snooks Jacquie’s versatility through the midcourt makes her a formidable opponent in defence and attack. She is fast and dynamic, working fluently down the court to create opportunities.

Christie Hillberg Christie will be hoping to get her team across the line against last year’s premiers. Christie’s presence on the court is enough to lift the team when needed. Her ability to read the play, her strong defence and great work down the court results in countless turnovers and stability all over the court.

Emma Kyle Em’s work rate both on and off the ball is what makes her one of the most challenging goaler’s to defend. Her experience, speed and accuracy are all attributes of her game. Look out for this one because when she is on - she is unstoppable.

Gemma Dixon Gem’s presence on court adds so much reassurance to the team. She is reliable, versatile and will always turn the ball over somewhere on the court. When in attack, she has a great eye for the goalers and will get the ball where it needs to be under any pressure.

Chloe Hogg First season of A Grade netball and what a giant effort it’s been. Chloe adds height, strength, accuracy and depth into this side and one can only imagine the talent she will bring to the team in the years to come.

Shae Kyle A very solid defender who has the ability to change the game. Shae has had an outstanding season in both U17s and A Grade and is well known for picking off aerial balls and shutting down any goaler.

Kimberley Hillberg Kim is a target up forward, with the agility and smarts to get the ball against the toughest of opponents. Her accuracy and unselfishness make her a key part of the attack end.

Ellie Holmes Ellie is a little pocket rocket who will bring energy and pace to the game. She adds speed and agility to the mid court and is tireless in her efforts all over the court.

West Gippsland netball Preliminary final

Saturday, September 2 A Grade: Dalyston 32 d Phillip Island 29. B Grade: Dalyston 45 d Cora Lynn 44. C Grade: Dalyston 29 d Cora Lynn 28.

Under 17: Inverloch-Kongwak 26 d Korumburra-Bena 25. Under 15: Korumburra-Bena 34 d Dalyston 19. Under 13: Koo Wee Rup 28 d Dalyston 26.

“THE STAR” Tuesday September 12, 2017 - PAGE 51

Corey Casey, 9. A talented young star in the making. He’s strong over contested balls, exciting on the outside and tackles like he’s been personally insulted. Lookout for his slick handballs. Blink and you’ll miss them.

Dylan Clark, 7. Assistant coach and dynamic onfield leader. He’s gifted with exquisite foot skills, leg speed and time to dispose of the ball in traffic. Lookout for some game changing heroics when his team needs him most.

Campbell McKenzie, 51. Plays with professionalism and confidence of a 200 gamer at 18 years of age. He’s as disciplined and committed to attacking the ball as anyone on the field. Lookout for his desperate spoils and a dash or two out of defence with the ball in his hands.

Daniel Houston, 43. Meticulously prepares his body to make life hard for his opponents. Dubbed the Spanish Glove by team mates for his commitment to winning one on one contests. Lookout for his vice like tackling and he loves to break free for a shot at goal.

Dale Lawton, 3. Captain who has recently returned from an ACL reconstruction last year. Loves to mark the ball in a one on one contest and directs his charges from behind the ball. Lookout for his elite kicking skills as he sets up attacks from the back half.

Toby Mahoney, 28. Selfless forward with speed to burn. Loves to work high up the ground and get involved in the play before getting on the end of a chain to snag a goal. Lookout out for a mark/goal that could be nominated for mark/goal of the year.

Oscar Toussaint, 2. Athletically gifted youngster who has set the wing alight this year. You’ll find him stalking the contests before he slides in to set up his team mates with a slick handball or perfectly placed kick. Lookout for a crowd pleasing running goal or a run down tackle to inspire his team mates.

Will Hetherington, 12. Rivals Roger Federer for the amount of matches he’s won on his own. Can be found laying tackles, winning contested balls or breaking the lines with pace and his penetrating kick. Lookout for him around the goals when the game calls for someone to grab it by the scruff of the neck.

Adam Cross, 5. Talented club stalwart who has almost done it all in his 290 odd games. Plays all over the ground and loves to make the opposition panic with his pressure acts. Lookout for him swooping on loose balls with his clean hands and setting up teammates to play better.

Ryan Sparkes, 36. A great junior talent of the club. An inspiration to his team mates and peers with his courage. Still eligible for U16s, he has taken on roles against some of the most talented players in the competition. Lookout for his bravery to win contested balls and elite decision making skills with the ball.

Xavier Hughes, 6. An uncompromising competitor who revels in the heat of the battle. He’s quick, can run all day and plays on opposition smalls or talls. Lookout for his fierce attack on aerial contests and then his follow up involvement in setting up his teams next attack.

Andy Soumilas, 23. Takes pride in performing on the big stage. He uses his strengths to set up his teammates to perform better, loves to win a hard ball or stick a big tackle. Lookout for his evasiveness and accuracy around goals closely followed by a high knee goal celebration.

Tom Wyatt, 19. A defender’s worst nightmare, he just keeps running and competing no matter the situation when playing forward. He defends equally as hard as he attacks and can match it with the best onballers or either forward and back. Look out for him roaming across half forward and using his athleticism to burn off his opponents.

Josh Purcell, 18. A man mountain in the middle all year. You’ll find him wrenching the ball clear of traffic and feeding it to his running teammates whilst shaking off opposition tacklers. Loves to cruise around the ground as a marking option too. Look out for his dashes with the ball and accurate delivery by foot.

Josh Clottu, 38. A club favourite and possibly the most underrated player in the competition. He possesses speed, thrives on a physical challenge and is a role model with his team first attitude. Lookout for him winning the ball in close just before he burns off to get involved on the outside.

Michael Eales, 24. A genuine smiling assassin. His teammates love him for his ability to get the job done. He’s played on some of the best players in the competition. Somehow finds a way to get a hand in to intercept when it looks impossible. Look out for him competing with the big boys in the ruck and in the air around the ground.

Lewis Rankin, 4. Undoubtedly the club’s most courageous player. Just as comfortable flying for the ball backwards as he is flying forwards. Can spoil the ball at a height where men aren’t meant to reach and runs like his life depends on it. Lookout for him putting a stop to whoever the most dangerous opposition is.

Shem Hawking, 32. An elite midfielder who works just as hard to defend for his team as he does to attack. You’ll find him running with the flight of the ball for intercept marks before getting involved in deep forward entries. Lookout for his penetrating kicks that give forwards scoring opportunities.

Tom Bartholomew, 25. At times he looks like a Melbourne Cup Colt in a field of picnic racers. All class and can turn a game in a few one on one contests. He’s impressed his teammates with his ability to play at both ends of the ground in crucial moments. Look out for him to pop up just when his team needs him most with a clutch mark or reliable shooting at goal.

Clint McCaughan, 22. The tireless ruckman who uses the ball like a midfielder. He delights in competing against bigger opponents before dropping a kick behind play for a mark or getting around the ground to provide a dangerous option for team mates. Lookout for him within range of goals. He loves having a pot shot at the big sticks.

IK hungry to break 30 year drought THE drought has lasted more than 30 years and it’s one Inverloch-Kongwak Football Club is keen to break when it vies for the inaugural Seniors premiership of the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition.

IK last won a Seniors flag in 1986 but has come close since, losing two grand finals in the late nineties, two more in the early 2000s and then placing runners-up in the grand final in the previous format of the Alberton Football League last year. Coach Ben Soumilas wants to make 2017 a year to remember for the Sea Eagles. “Winning a grand final is of course a great achievement and a highlight for the privileged players who get

to compete on the day,” he said. “However, a premiership represents more than just a two hour effort on a Saturday afternoon. “If the Inverloch-Kongwak FNC senior players earn the right to have the cup handed over to them, it will be a reward to all the people, past and present, who have contributed to the club. “Making grand finals are exciting for everyone involved but being able to win one means our players would have the opportunity to personally say thanks to our committee, volunteers, trainers, supporters, netballers, previous coaches and families.” Soumilas said IK has shown great resilience throughout the year. “After a hugely successful season for our club as a whole in 2016, it’s almost assumed that a team should go on to win a

premiership after the disappointment of losing one,” he said. “However, most sportspeople know that it’s just not that simple. Our players have been able to respond in a positive way all season when faced with challenges such as serious injuries, unknown opposition and selection headaches. “Our men just keep preparing, performing, recovering and then repeating the process.” Soumilas said the club takes great pride in being inclusive and focusing on the bigger picture. “Clubs have to be about how we support each other, treat each other and how we represent each other. We’re proud to say that our club culture is as strong as ever.” This is Soumilas’ 14th year of senior coaching. “I feel privileged the Inverloch-Kongwak FNC

Tom Hams, 10. An exciting midfielder with a wealth of experience. He thrives in the big moments and takes great pride in playing a balanced game of attack and defence. You’re just as likely to finding him directing traffic and defending as winning hard ball and carrying the ball forward. Lookout for him to break the game open with his run and penetrating kick.

committee has chosen to reappoint me for a sixth year and it’s so satisfying that I will have spent more years as the Inverloch-Kongwak coach than the other clubs I’ve been involved with,” he said.

Santo Joma, 49. A proud competitor who just continues to get better. He thrives on playing against the best forwards the opposition has to offer and welcomes the physicality of a big game. He can run as fast, jump as high and win the ball as well as anyone on the field. Lookout for his huge hammer fist spoils followed up by some exciting dashes out of defence.

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

SPORT | FOOTBALL

thestar.com.au

Going nowhere: Travis Manne makes sure Toora’s Lukas Jenkins wasn’t going to get away.

• Alberton Football Netball League Grand Final

Desperate: Fish Creek’s Bailey Harfield Park makes sure Toora’s Jonathon Pintus would earn this kick.

Fish Creek goes back to back FISH CREEK survived a third quarter Toora onslaught to take out the senior premiership for the second year running in the Alberton Football Netball League grand final on Saturday at Meeniyan.

Fish Creek ran out the winner 17.10.112 to Toora’s 10.9.69 A big crowd turned out for the grand final with Meeniyan’s streets packed with cars and plenty at the ground early to watch the netball and football action. Showers persisted early in the day but mostly cleared for the senior match. With the drenching through the week, the Meeniyan ground staff should be congratulated for the excellent playing surface which, although a bit slippery and soft on top, stood up pretty well to the three matches played on it throughout the day. Fish Creek came out fresh and polished in the opening term and Toora looked a little flat. Gareth Park got Fishy away to a great start with a free and 50 metres enabling him to goal. When Blaine Coates slotted a nice long goal and Andrew Seccull dribbled one home things were looking ominous. Toora to its credit was having plenty of 50 metres entries but a mean Fishy backline cleared the ball away. When Seccull marked and booted a great goal from the boundary line for Fishy it was the Creek 4.1.25 to Toora’s no score. Brent Cooper added the Kangaroos fifth before Toora finally broke the drought when James Maurilli-Pullin converted a beauty from the boundary line before a busy Jake Buckland added one for Fishy; at quarter time it was Fish Creek 6.2 to Toora’s 1.1. Tom Carmeron marked early in term two and converted from 25 metres out in front to extend the lead further. Toora’s Jonathon Pintus was having a great first half

and he was busy along half forward and he set up two Toora chances which were rewarded with behinds. In the Magpies best run of play for the game defender Michael O’Sullivan kicked to Richard Jaroszczuk in the centre; straight onto a running Ben Willder for a goal. The Magpies were trying to lift but Fishy managed to break through for another two, through Justin Smith and Bailey Harfield-Park, to get out to a lead 9.5 to Toora’s 2.4 at half time. A few at the ground declared “it was all over” but they weren’t to imagine what would happen in the third term. Toora managed a massive fight back which saw it slam on 7.2 to Fish Creek’s 1.2 to bring the crowd out in full voice and on the edge as a fairytale comeback looked possible. The Magpies’ Welles Jenkins added two, Michael O’Sullivan, Jonathon Pintus , Lukas. Jenkins, Luke Manders and Joshua Griffin all one each and Toora was suddenly up and about. At three quarter time the lead was just 19 points to Fish Creek and Toora was right back in it; last change scores Fish Creek 12.8 to Toora’s 9.7. The Magpies would have to tick plenty of boxes to spring a major upset but when Jack Weston for Toora goaled this match was very much alive. Fish Creek steadied through Gareth Park and when one of Fishy’s best in Jake Buckland goaled Toora’s run had ended. The Kangaroos would add another three for the term to run out 43 point victors. Fish Creek has been the side to beat all season but with both the Allies and Toora to contend with over the past two weeks the final’s series has proven to be very successful for the league. The umpire’s best on ground went to Fish Creek’s Ethan Park, the VCFL medal to Callan Park while Toora’s Ben Wells received the Bill Pollock Medal.

Two in a row: Fish Creek coach Greg Hoskin and captain Callan Park hold up the silverware- premiers 2017 with Alberton league director of operations (centre).

Right, Valuable: Jake Buckland presented well all day at centre half forward for Fishy, booting four and dishing off plenty of handballs.

Below, One skirmish: the umpire’s had to deal with just one minor skirmish but for the most part players from both sides behaved themselves. Thumbs up: Callan Park picks up the Victo- Pollock medal: Ben Wells of Toora picks up rian Country Football League (VCFL) medal the Bill Pollock Memorial Medal from Stuart Storr, representing the Pollock family. for best on ground.

Grand final Fish Creek 17.10.112 Toora 10.9.69 Fish Creek goals: J. Buckland 4, B. Coates 3, A. Seccull 2, G. Park 2, J. Smith 1, R. McGannon 1, J. Blenkinsop 1, T. Cameron 1, B. Harfield/ Park 1, B. Cooper 1. Toora goals: W. Jenkins 2, M. O’Sullivan 1, J. Griffin 1, B. Willder 1, J. Maurilli-Pullin 1, J. Weston 1, L. Jenkins 1, L. Manders 1, J. Pintus 1. Fish Creek best: E. Park, J. Buckland, B. Harfield/Park, B. Coates, G. Park, J. Hayes. Toora best: J. Griffin, J. Pintus, B. Wells, R. Jaroszczuk, L. Ferguson, L. Manders. RESERVES

Stony Creek 10.7.67 Tarwin 6.5.41 Stony Creek goals: B. Byrnes 4, L. Harrington 2, N. Nowell-Svenson

1, B. Renden 1, M. Dyer 1, R. Harrington 1. Tarwin goals: K. McLean 2, L. Weston 1, B. Mead-Ameri 1, L. Anderson 1, S. Brand 1. Stony Creek best: S. Cope, B. Byrnes, T. Stone, L. Harrington, R. Harrington, A. Verboon. Tarwin best: A. Chadwick, J. Carmody, A. Bell, T. Giroud, T. O’Loughlin, D. Cardy. THIRDS

Fish Creek 4.8,32 Stony Creek 2.6.18 Fish Creek goals: J. Standfield 1, J. Stefani 1, C. Buckland 1, L. Howard 1. Stony Creek goals: B. Bacon 1, J. Steele-Rockall 1. Fish Creek best: L. Howard, A. Wilson, K. Dorling, Z. Clark, N. Denbrok, S. McGannon. Stony Creek best: H. Funnell, H. Collins, C. Cary, J. Bright, D. Williams, J. Steele-Rockall.

Umpire’s best: Graham Laird representing the South Gippsland Umpire’s presents the umpire’s best on ground to Ethan Park.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017 - PAGE 53

FOOTBALL | SPORT

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Take it: Stony Creek’s Andrew Verboon prepares to take the ball from his tackled team mate in the Alberton Football Netball League Reserve grand final on Saturday, played against Tarwin in Meeniyan.

Winners: Alberton Football Netball League Reserves premiers Stony Creek were thrilled with their win over Tarwin on Saturday.

Stony takes the flag THE Reserves grand final was won in the second half on Saturday, with neither team able to take control of the game early. With a lead of 16 points at the first quarter break, Stony Creek looked to have the game in control; however a strong second quarter from Tarwin got it to within one point at half time. The swirling wind and intermittent showers made conditions difficult for both teams and while the oval held up well, it did prove slip-

Play it: Tarwin’s Tom Giroud tries to keep the ball in play during the Alberton Football Netball League Reserves grand final against Stony Creek on Saturday.

pery at times. Tarwin failed to maintain its momentum after the long break and only managed to kick two points in the third quarter, while Stony piled on two goals and three points to take a 12 point lead at three quarter time. Both teams came out firing in the last quarter, but Stony was able to make the most of the ball and managed to kick another four goals to Tarwin’s two. Stony Creek ended up with a 10 goal haul, to win the game 10.7.67 to 6.5.41.

Right, Best on: Brenton Byrnes received the best on ground award after the Alberton Football Netball League Reserves grand final on Saturday, presented by Dumbalk’s Bev Hanley.

Tough: slippery conditions made taking hold of the ball difficult during the Alberton Football Netball League grand final matches played at Meeniyan on Saturday.

Fishy’s young guns Way to go: Fish Creek’s Thirds pulled off its first win of the day in the Alberton Football Netball League grand final against Stony Creek on Saturday. Left, Top notch: Owen Schnoor takes the ball down the ground for Fish Creek in the Alberton Football Netball League Thirds grand final on Saturday, played against Stony Creek.

FISH Creek Thirds footballers won the premiership on Saturday, after beating rivals Stony Creek by 14 points in slippery conditions. In a low scoring game, both teams worked hard to get the ball within scoring distance, often fighting against the wind. The first quarter was close in terms of score, with Fishy taking the lead early, nine points to two. By half time, both teams

had lifted their game, and headed into the long break with the scores level. The score stayed level for most of the third quarter, with both teams finding it hard to make an impact on the scoreboard. The Fishy boys picked up their game late in the quarter and managed to pull ahead of Stony, 30 to 17 by three quarter time. The last quarter saw just three points scored between both teams, meaning the Kangaroos had the game in the bag.

The final score was 4.8.32 to 2.6.18.

FOOTY DRAWS THIS WEEKEND GIPPSLAND Preliminary final Saturday, September 16 Traralgon v Maffra at Morwell

WEST GIPPSLAND Grand final Saturday, September 16 Inverloch-K’wak v Cora Lynn at Wonthaggi Rec Reserve

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017

SPORT | FOOTBALL

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Hand ball: Jack Robertson looks for a Mirboo North teammate in the Mid Gippsland Football Netball League grand final, played against Yinnar in Morwell on Saturday.

Premiers: Mirboo North won its fifth Mid Gippsland premiership since 2006 against Yinnar on the weekend. Right, Great grab: Mirboo North’s Benjamin Richards takes the ball to the ground during his team’s winning performance against Yinnar in the Mid Gippsland Football Netball League grand final played at Morwell on Saturday.

• Yinnar v Mirboo North

Tigers claim premiership in thriller MIRBOO North courageously captured its fifth Mid Gippsland premiership since 2006 when it defeated Yinnar by two points in a grand final cliffhanger at Morwell Recreation Reserve on Saturday.

From start to finish, the ferocity of this low scoring, bone-crunching encounter – where nothing more than 14 points separated the teams – was ceaseless. Had the final siren sounded a millisecond or two later, Yinnar would have won its 14th senior premiership since 1939. Instead, the Magpies had to settle for second best, when Max Renwick pounced on a loose ball and sent it sailing through the big white sticks, just after veteran field umpire Steven Buhagiar, blew his whistle and signalled full time. For a fleeting moment, several Yinnar players near the goal square and many spectators who didn’t hear the siren, thought Yinnar had taken the lead. Mirboo North’s classy half back flanker Jacob Blair was easily best afield, winning the Bill McConville Medal as well as the field umpire’s award, after baffling the Magpies with his trademark twists and turns out of trouble and expert hand and foot deliveries to teammates. A couple of Blair’s miraculous

escapes from grasping Magpie claws defied belief and made Harry Houdini look like a man locked in solitary confinement. The mighty Tigers’ nail-biting victory was a triumph for second-year playing coach Clancy Bennett, who previously captained Mirboo North to flags in 2006 and 2007, after participating in four junior club premierships. Following demoralising successive losses to Yallourn Yallourn North and Newborough in mid July, Mirboo North was seventh on the ladder and two games plus percentage out of the five. Bennett articulately and constructively challenged his players to improve their performance and affirmed their best was equal to any side in the competition. After the round 15 defeat, the Tigers boldly invoked a commitment to grab the premiership by winning their three remaining home and away fixtures, plus four finals – which they duly did. Showers and patchy rain during the week and into game day softened the Morwell oval’s pristine surface and a south westerly breeze pushed most of the play towards the outer side boundary line. Kicking north, Mirboo North kept Yinnar goalless in the opening term, but only managed one major itself when Brayden Wilson broke free and rammed a long shot home on the run. The Tigers had plenty of the early play inside their forward half and were unlucky four shots narrowly missed the

wide opening. Darryl Mayman was active across the midfield for the Tigers, Dom Pinneri fired up in close, Hudson Kerr created options, Joe Brooks had Jamie Winters’ measure in the ruck and Jake Nash powered his way through the packs. Both defences were rebounding well, with Blair, Julian Blackford, Daniel Taylor, Ben Richards and Bennett solid for the Tigers, whilst playing coach Jaime Aitken, Jesse Sleswick and Matt Lewellin were dominant in Yinnar’s back 50. Four consecutive second quarter goals from Yinnar after Jack Robertson marked and converted for Mirboo North put the Magpies 14 points clear and threatening to take full control. Signs of trouble and areas of concern began to appear for the Tigers as Yinnar’s game plan implementations struck pay dirt. This season’s Mid Gippsland Football League best and fairest winner Michael Geary slipped into top gear, Luke Linton gathered numerous quality possessions and Jarrod Henderson frequently provided constructive drive through the midfield. There were fears amongst some Mirboo North supporters that Yinnar’s skill, endurance and running power had forced the Tigers into using a geometrically misaligned formula of improvised resistance. Then, a timely team-lifting snap across his body from the left forward pocket by Bennett, reduced Mirboo North’s deficit to a manageable seven

Tigers battle hard in grand final B Grade Morwell East 28 defeated Mirboo North 24

U15

Trafalgar 44 defeated Mirboo North 37

Runner up: Mirboo North’s U15s narrowly missed out during the grand final after a hard fought game.

points, shortly before the main break. Suddenly, the Tigers had quelled Yinnar’s authority and they knew they were back in business. Mirboo North made its winning move during the third quarter, when Tim Traill booted two crucial unanswered goals, the second of which came after Brooks held a brave contested intercept mark and drilled the ball directly into the big full forward’s chest. Leading by five points at the last change, Bennett told the Tigers his heart said the flag was theirs, if they remained focused, kept working hard and made it happen. Amazingly, the only goal in the tense last quarter came when Yinnar’s Damian Yates marked in the corridor after a minute’s play and kicked truly from 45 metres. The Magpies were up by a point and the wind was helping them, but Blair, Blackford, Peter Taylor, Richards, Bennett and Luke Palmer refused to yield in the back half. Brooks continued jumping high at the near endless stoppages and skipper Damien Turner set up some Mirboo North corridor advances with accurate passes. Nash and Josh Taylor scored two behinds each and at the 15 minute mark, Mirboo North was three points clear. Yinnar’s Brandon Mahoney missed by a whisker with a high snap from the left forward pocket and after only a minute of time-on, the 2017 premiership belonged to Mirboo North.

Best on ground: Jacob Blair helped Mirboo North secure grand final victory and was awarded for his effort on the weekend. Grand final Mirboo North 5.12.42 Yinnar 5.10.40 Mirboo North goals: T. Traill 2, B. Wilson 1, C. Bennett 1, J. Robertson 1. Yinnar goals: M. Geary 2, D. Yates 1, L. Visser 1, L. Maynard 1. Mirboo North best: J. Blair, C. Bennett, D. Mayman, J. Blackford, J. Brooks, J. Nash. Yinnar best: M. Geary, J. Sleswick, L. Linton, D. Hicks, J. Henderson, D. Yates.

J. Abbott, D. Martini. THIRDS

Newborough 6.3.39 Trafalgar 4.5.29 Newborough goals: J. Mitchell 5, J. Dworznik 1. Trafalgar goals: B. Burgess 2, B. Bosman 1, T. Tuck 1. Newborough best: L. Barry, W. Smith, L. Flahavin, L. Cordner, J. Ryan, R. Lambos. Trafalgar best: B. Kersten, T. Marslen, B. Bosman, T. Tuck, J. Morrow, T. Stevens.

RESERVES Yinnar 11.6.72 Yallourn/Yallourn Nth 6.8.44

FOURTHS Hill End 7.3.45 Yinnar 5.9.39

Yinnar goals: S. Famularo 3, J. Cahill 2, C. Harwood 2, P. McGrath 2, S. McColl 1, H. Matthews 1. Yallourn/Yallourn North goals: J. Keyhoe 2, J. Abbott 2, L. Nelson 1, S. Gore 1. Yinnar best: L. Burslem, S. Famularo, E. Hicks, D. Webster, H. Matthews, M. Dyke. Yallourn/Yallourn North best: S. Gore, D. Price, D. Potts, J. Keyhoe,

Hill End goals: D. Keyhoe 2, D. Orton 1, C. Paul 1, B. Paul 1, J. Pinch 1, B. Clymo 1. Yinnar goals: M. Ounjit 2, A. Sheers 1, M. McCafferty 1, H. Hicks 1. Hill End best: B. Paul, L. Smith, D. Orton, C. Tumino, C. Millsom, D. Keyhoe. Yinnar best: M. Ounjit, B. Flanigan, L. Hobbs, C. Bell, P. Kearns, O. Doig.

Accolades for Mirboo North MIRBOO North took out the highest honours at the Mid Gippsland league vote count recently, with Jess Le Page being awarded the A Grade league best and fairest and Karli Densley the B Grade league best and fairest.

These two key defenders have contributed to the success of their teams in the 2017 finals with A Grade reaching the elimination final and B Grade the grand final. Jaime Chila and Mikaeli Hilliar also caught the attention of the umpires through the season, coming equal third in the league for the U15 age group and assisting their team to reach the 2017 grand final.

Well done: Jess Le Page and Karli Densley won the Mid Gippsland league best and fairest trophies for A Grade and B Grade respectively.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017 - PAGE 55

| SPORT

thestar.com.au • Gippsland League Second Semi-Final

Parrots fly straight to grand final LEONGATHA Seniors and Reserves have booked places in the Gippsland Football League grand final after solid wins over Traralgon and Maffra at Moe on Saturday.

After a good start Leongatha seniors were able to withstand a Traralgon fight back in the third quarter when it inched to within 14 points of the Parrots at the final change. Traralgon had the momentum but the Parrots were able to get on with the job and went away with

2nd Semi final

SENIORS Leongatha 11.5.71 Traralgon 6.7.43 Leongatha goals: J. Ginnane 3, T. Marriott 2, Z. Vernon 2, A. Hillberg 2, L. Bowman 1, C. Dunne 1, Traralgon goals: L. Stockdale 1, R. Hildebrand 1, J. Neagle 1, T. Northe 1, J. McMahon 1, M. Northe 1. Leongatha best: B. Chalmers, S. Westaway, B. Willis, B. Davidson, P. McGrath, C. Stone. Traralgon best: B. Amberg, H. Hector, M. Jacobsen, M. Northe, T. Northe, M. Collison.

RESERVES Leongatha 6.9.45 Maffra 4.3.27 Match details not submitted

THIRDS Moe 8.4.52 Leongatha 1.11.17 Moe goals: R. Anderson 3, N.

the match again recording a 28 point victory. Traralgon will now have to compete in a cut throat preliminary final against Maffra at Morwell this Saturday. The grand final will be played in Moe. Zac Vernon made a welcome return to the Parrots’ side after being sidelined through injury. He got the Parrots away early with the first goal and appropriately added his second at the 23 minute mark of the final quarter to effectively put any chances of a Traralgon victory beyond doubt. Backman Ben Chalmers is hitting good form and he and Sean West-

Gown 2, S. Flanders 1, N. Balfour 1, L. Michie 1. Leongatha goals: B. Rogers 1. Moe best: N. Balfour, L. Pearce, J. Wilson, M. Pearce, A. Byrne, H. Prestidge Leongatha best: B. Perry, J. Dunn, J. Norton, J. Hastings, J. Hill, J. van der Pligt.

1st Semi final FOURTHS Leongatha 5.15.45 Bairnsdale 4.7.31 Leongatha goals: C. James 1, J. Hume 1, J. Battersby 1, W. Littlejohn 1, M. McGannon 1. Bairnsdale goals: H. Kellow 1, B. Vickery 1, T. Rees 1, D. McNamara 1. Leongatha best: J. van der Pligt, T. Nash, Z. Reid, T. Vanderkolk, M. McGannon, L. O’Neill. Bairnsdale best: R. Timms, H. Cook, M. Willmott, T. Rees, H. Kellow, W. Capes.

away held sway in defence all day for the Parrots, restricting the normally potent Traralgon forward line to just six goals for the match. Cam Stone on the wing showed his pace and class and was dangerous. Ben Willis did a superb job up against one of the league’s best in Ben Amberg. Although Amberg just grabbed the honours, Willis more than countered with some great footy. Josh Schelling also worked hard in tandem with Willis to try to negate Amberg’s influence. Brok Davidson worked solidly all day and provided the Parrot forwards with plenty of drive and was dangerous when offered the chance. Jack Ginnane slotted three goals home and Tom Marriott and Zac Vernon added two each. Pat McGrath, Tom Marriott and Luke Bowman were the best of the middle brigade for Leongatha. After Vernon kicked the opening goal for Leongatha, Jackson McMahon put scores level with a goal midterm but the remainder of the quarter was Leongatha’s with goals at the 14, 16 and 23 minute mark to Bowman, Ginnane and

Hillberg. Quarter Time Leongatha 4.1.25 to Traralgon 1.3.9 Within seconds of the bounce for the second term Jack Ginnane slammed one home and he added his third at the 17 minute mark to put the Parrots lead out further as the Maroons failed to goal this term. Half time Leongatha 6.2.38 to Traralgon 1.4.10. Traralgon would have to make its move this term or suffer defeat early and to its credit it bounced back well with Jay Neagle signaling the side’s intention with a goal inside two minutes of the restart. Tom Marriott replied soon after but with Traralgon snaring another two through Tim Northe and Rohan Hildebrand there was a glimmer of hope for the Maroons. Three Quarter Time Leongatha 7.2.44 to Traralgon 4.6.30 The Parrots through Aaron Hillberg goaled inside three minutes of the last term and when Tom Marriott added his second at the five minute mark there was some breathing space. Lee Stockdale added a goal to bring Traralgon within 19 points midway through the last term and there was still a slim chance for an upset. But 12 minutes of pressure footy toeing and froeing between each of the half backlines saw no goals added and the Parrots looked like hanging on. When Zac Vernon and soon after Chris Dunne goaled for the Parrots it was game over with Matthew Northe adding one right towards the end for the Maroons.

A great start saw Leongatha two goals up and it managed to cling to this lead for most of the day.

Thirds

The Thirds had a day to forget against Moe going down by 35 points in the second semi final. The good news for the Parrots is they are still in the hunt and the kicking for goal can only get better after being just nine behinds at three quarter time; adding the only goal in the last quarter. The other positive could be the inclusion of Gippsland Power players Bailey Patterson and Kyle Reid into the side. The Parrots now face Traralgon in the preliminary final.

Fourths

Leongatha Fourths is still alive after a huge come from behind win over Bairnsdale. Trailing at 16 points at half time the Parrots showed plenty of determination to hit the lead in the third quarter and hold on in the last! It’s great to see all Parrots football teams still “alive” at the preliminary final stage.

Out in front: Jack Ginnane lead forward well and claimed good marks in front and slotted three valuable goals to be the best of the senior forwards. More photos at www.mdphotos.net

Reserves

Quick kick: Nick Moore sinks boot to ball for the Leongatha Reserves.

In a tough and bruising encounter with no quarter given, Leongatha held on to win by three goals over Maffra to book its spot in the grand final.

Gippsland netball Semi final results

A Grade: Drouin 61 d Traralgon 54, Morwell 50 d Moe 37. B Grade: Moe 45 d Leongatha 43, Traralgon 54 d Drouin 41. C Grade: Leongatha 34 d Wonthaggi Power 31, Maffra 40 d Traralgon 38. Under 17: Maffra 46 d Traralgon 32, Moe 38 d Drouin 18. Under 15: Leongatha 34 d Wonthaggi Power 33, Bairnsdale 45 d Sale 42. Under 13: Sale 30 d Bairnsdale 18, Maffra 30 d Traralgon 27.

In the big one: Kath Reid claims the ball for Leongatha against Wonthaggi Power in its C Grade victory and now has the grand final to look forward to.

Easy does it: showing plenty of calm, Leongatha’s senior player Joel Sinclair measures the handball before his Traralgon opponent runs in.

Parrots netball Preliminary final B Grade Leongatha 43 def by Moe 45

Awards: Rusty Windmill - Kasie Rump, Forage & Grind - Kate Browne. A slow start to the game and a tough competition meant we missed opportunities and couldn’t convert our opportunities to goals.

C Grade

Leongatha 34 d Wonthaggi 31

Sports First - Elicia Garnham, Network Video - Dani Logan, Sixty Degrees - Kath Reid. Winner, winner, chicken dinner. Great work girls. Bring on the granny.

Under 15

Leongatha 34 d Wonthaggi 33

Winners! We won! Grand final here we come.

Still a chance: Sara Riseley claims the ball and looks forward in the B Grade match. The B Grade side is featured in this Saturday’s preliminary final.

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 12, 2017