The Great Southern Star - September 6, 2016

www.thestar.com.au TUESDAY, SEPT 6, 2016 - $1.40

Time to celebrate: af after a 14 year absence of a senior premiership, Fish Creek finally nailed the Alberton league flag with a fighting win over ove Inverloch Kongwak 6.15.51 to 4.10.34. Pictured celebrating the win are players, Gareth Park, Matt Kreymborg, Matt Taylor, Callan Park (captain), Ryan McGannon, Lachie Pratt, Matthew McGannon, Brent CooBuckland, Ethan Park, Paul Tolongs, Tom Cameron, Jack Hayes, Justin Smith, Ashley Snooks, per, Jake B Fusinato, Todd Mackie, Andrew Seccull, Travis Manne, Trevor Hooker and Bailey Harfield-Park.

Tom Fus

Deserving: after playing a brilliant match up forward, Fish Creek’s Matt Kreymborg won the umpire’s best on ground award.

Right: Best on court: Dalyston A Grade coach Alyce Wylie, daughter Mila and mother Bernie Abriola celebrate the team’s grand final win.

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PAGE 2 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 3

Driver escapes truck crash

By Tayla Kershaw A TRUCK driver escaped with non-life threatening injuries after his truck overturned in Jumbunna last Wednesday.

The B-double fertiliser truck burst into flames after veering off the side of Korumburra-Wonthaggi Road at 3.15pm.

A car was heading towards the truck in the opposite direction and momentarily swerved into the centre of the road.

The truck driver moved to the left to avoid a collision.

The truck’s wheel stuck to the grass on the side of the road, causing the truck to slide for 140m, overturn and catch fire.

The driver – a 29 year old from Korumburra – was not trapped during the crash and was able to escape before the truck ignited. He was later flown to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

The fire destroyed the truck and blackened the trees on the side of the road, but caused no further damage.

Korumburra Police and the Bass Coast Highway Patrol attended the scene, along with CFA units from Korumburra, Kongwak and Ruby, and the State Emergency Service.

VicRoads was also called to clean the road, which was covered in mud and debris.

The road was closed for two hours while heavy haulage towed the truck. Traffic was diverted around the scene.

The scene was completely cleared by 11pm.

No penalties have been issued, but investigations are still underway.

Crash site: a truck overturned and caught fire on the Korumburra-Wonthaggi Road near Jumbunna last Wednesday. Photo from Facebook.

Olympian London bound

By Brad Lester LEONGATHA’S own Olympian high jumper Eleanor Patterson has paid tribute to the community of South Gippsland for cheering her while she competed in the Olympic Games in Brazil last month.

“Especially afterwards, I was humbled by the support I received. I’m blessed to have the brilliant

support I’ve had from my coach David (Green, also of Leongatha) and my family who was there for every step of the way,” Eleanor said while home at Leongatha last Friday.

The high jumper also acknowledged the well wishes she received from members of her home club, the South Coast Athletics Club, and the group where her athletic career began as a youngster, the Leongatha Little Athletics Club.

Eleanor finished 22nd at the games with a final jump of 1.89m, short of her personal best of 1.96m.

While she was disappointed by the result, she is viewing the Olympic journey as a chapter in her youthful athletic career.

“It was a wild ride, that’s for sure, and it was one of those rare experiences,” Eleanor said.

“I’m definitely proud to be an Olympian.”

The Commonwealth Games medallist described the Olympic experience as “full of highs and lows”, but felt she handled the pressure of the occasion.

“All of the time (while competing) I think about me, my coach David and what we have done to prepare and what we have practised umpteen times,” she said.

In the lead up to the Olympics, Eleanor endured a hectic schedule of competition in London and Germany, before joining the Australian athletics team in Rio de Janeiro.

She will never forget taking part in the closing ceremony of the games, let alone the Olympic experience itself.

“I treat every competition as just another competition, but every now and then I would think ‘This is cool, this is the Olympics’,” Eleanor said.

“I had been dreaming about this for a long time.”

She is now relishing a break from competition, “taking one day at a time”.

“I just have to get my head around it and when I’m ready I will get back into training. All my preparation (for the Olympics) was right and I have no regrets,” Eleanor said.

Her next major competition will be the world athletic championships in London next year and she will continue with David Green as her coach.

Eleanor still hopes to contest the next Commonwealth and Olympic games, and pursue athletics fulltime, but knows the advantages of downtime.

To relax, she enjoys drawing, particularly portraits, cooking and meditation.

“I was looking forward to getting home and enjoying family time together,” she said.

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PAGE 4 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Mirboo North celebrates THE State Government’s announcement of its desire for a permanent ban on unconventional gas and fracking has delighted the Mirboo North community.

Marg Thomas, of the town’s advocacy group, Coal and CSG Free Mirboo North, said the news was a “huge win for our community”.

“We thank the minister (for Resources Wade Noonan) and premier (Daniel Andrews) for this remarkable outcome,” she said.

“It demonstrates they have listened to the people and made a considered decision in favour of our thriving commercial enterprises, way of life and environment.

“We have always campaigned for a permanent ban on onshore gas, so this is a huge win for our community.

We look forward to the legislation being enacted. “ However while Ms Thomas said the group welcomed the extension of the moratorium on conventional onshore gas, it would be “challenging this facet of the industry as it has as large a subsurface footprint as unconventional gas”.

Anti-CSG group Lock the Gate Alliance congratulated the government’s decision and said it should lead to the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) reversing its push for expanded gas mining.

Phil Laird from Lock the Gate Alliance said, “This outcome is a credit to the brave and determined farmers and community groups who have fought long and hard against risky gas mining, and it is reassuring to see state governments are starting to listen to people and their demands to protect land and water resources.

“It is ground-breaking precedent that is being watched by people across the country, and it will set the benchmark for states who are prepared to listen to

Party time: members of Coal and CSG Free Mirboo North gathered at the Mirboo North hotel last Wednesday to celebrate the unconventional gas ban. Among them were, from left, farmers Deborah and Fergus O’Connor and Suzanne Wightman. their constituents and prioritise agricultural, tourism and renewable energy businesses, over the financially unstable, short-term gas industry.”

Mr Laird said the Victorian ban, plus the promise by the incoming Northern Territory Government to implement a moratorium on all shale gas activities, has left the recent COAG push for expanded unconventional gas mining in tatters.

“The Federal Government is woefully out of touch on this issue and the community has not been swayed by

their confected gas supply crisis,” he said.

“We’re calling on Federal Environment and Energy Minister, Josh Frydenberg, to urgently visit communities threatened by gas mining across the country, reconsider his position, and respond in a similar fashion to the Andrews Government.”

The Mirboo North community will be having a public celebration on Sunday, September 18 at 1pm at Baromi Park, Ridgway, Mirboo North. BYO picnic lunch or barbecue and everyone is welcome.

At long last: CSG-Free Bass Coast celebrated the State Government’s permanent ban on unconventional gas mining with a government in Apex Park, Wonthaggi, on Friday.

The group’s Jessica Harrison said, “It means at last farmers can concentrate on producing food and looking after the land, without the threat of gas fields looming over the horizon.

“It also shows that fossil fuels are on the way out and renewables are here to stay, and clean energy will expand as dirty energy sources die out.

“We want to see no more new coal mines or other types of extraction in Gippsland.

“No more door knocking for us. It’s a win.

Thanks to everyone who attended meetings, rallies and helped us survey the local area.”

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

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

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Labor backs Coalition stance, says MP GIPPSLAND South MLA Danny O’Brien said the State Government’s decision to ban fracking was a continuation of the former Coalition Government’s cautious approach in establishing the moratorium.

“We have always stood side-by-side with our farmers, while the previous Labor Government issued 23 fracking permits and 73 exploration permits,” he said.

“In government, the Coalition introduced the moratorium on fracking and legislated to ban the use of BTEX chemicals.

“I have seen the stress and anxiety some people have experienced on this issue and today’s announcement will come as a great relief to many in Gippsland.”

Mr O’Brien said he hoped the announcement would allow farmers and landholders to move on with their lives.

“The government’s position on conventional gas exploration and development is the same as The Nationals’ position announced in October last year,” he said.

“I look forward to seeing the details of the government’s proposed legislation when it is released.”

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 5

Premier praises South Gippsland

By Brad Lester SOUTH Gippslanders could well have saved Victoria’s multi-billion dollar agriculture and tourism industries from the threat posed by fracking and coal seam gas (CSG).

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews last Tuesday, August 30 acknowledged the groundswell of community opposition to coal seam gas in South Gippsland had influenced the government’s decision to attempt to legislate for a permanent ban on the exploration and development of all onshore unconventional gas in Victoria.

This would include hydraulic fracturing – or fracking by injecting chemicals into the ground – and coal seam gas.

If parliament passes the legislation, to be introduced to later this year, Victoria will become the first state in Australia to ban CSG and fracking.

Mr Andrews said there was “no doubt” the significant community opposition to CSG in South Gippsland was a factor in the government’s decision.

“The advocacy of Harriet Shing, Eastern Victoria Region MLC as our local member, as well as the very loud, well informed, evidence based voice that’s come from Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley has been a very important part of the decision we’ve made today,” he said.

“The Gippsland community can be very

Front, centre: Jumbunna farmer Brian Enbom (middle) discusses the potential impacts of coal seam gas with Labor’s Eastern Victoria Region MLC Harriet Shing and Premier Daniel Andrews at his property last Tuesday, August 30. proud of its advocacy and I’m proud to say we’ve listened and taken action necessary to protect our state into the future.”

The news delighted beef farmer Brian Enbom, who hosted the premier’s announcement at his Jumbunna property, chosen for his work with Landcare, via the Korumburra Landcare Group

Councils applaud gas ban COUNCILS have welcomed the State Government’s announcement of a permanent ban on the exploration and development of all onshore unconventional gas in Victoria.

for listening to the community and our plea to mitigate risks associated with coal seam gas.”

Bass Coast Shire Council mayor Cr Jordan Crugnale said council was one of the first catalysts in the moratorium being put in place in 2012.

“With other Gippsland councils, we recently met with Minster Wade NooSouth Gippsland Shire nan and reiterated points in Council said the decision our submission, which at • South Gippsland • Bass Coast Shire removed any anxiety felt its core had the protection by farmers about the envi- Shire Council mayor Council mayor Cr of our agricultural land and Jordan Crugnale. ronmental and health risks Cr Bob Newton. water tables, asking for a associated with fracking. definitive answer rather than the uncertainty of what a Mayor Cr Bob Newton said many people across moratorium brings,” she said.

South Gippsland had been worried about the impact of “This has always been a state issue and to have a unconventional gas extraction on the environment. state-wide control is brilliant. The band aid has been “The ban on the unconventional gas industry in ripped off; we now have certainty of direction and Victoria ensures the protection of our local agricultural know our farmland, aquifers, image and branding is and tourism sectors from any risks associated with the now also valued by the State Government, and that we industry. have been heard through an extensive and thorough “The whole community can now rejoice in knowprocess. ing the unconventional gas industry will have no place “Thank you to the previous council, community in South Gippsland. “South Gippsland will remain a and fellow councils in the Gippsland Local Governplace known for high quality food production and its ment Network. Working side-by-side is of immense natural beauty, and we thank the Victorian Government benefit and this is a positive example.”

and Bass Coast Landcare Network.

“I’m all for sustainable agriculture. We’ve got enough things against it and we do not need anymore. The dairy industry is going through a crisis at the moment and this (CSG) is just one of

many things that were against clean green food of the future,” he said.

Mr Andrews said the decision was about putting farmers and tourism first, and protecting the state’s water supplies from possible contamination by chemicals used in fracking.

Victoria’s food and fibre exports are worth $11.6 billion.

“Our farmers produce some of the world’s cleanest and freshest food. We won’t put that at risk with fracking,” he said.

“Victorians have made it clear they don’t support fracking and the health and environmental risks involved outweigh any potential benefits.”

The decision follows the 2015 Parliamentary Inquiry into Onshore Unconventional Gas in Victoria, which received more than 1600 submissions, mostly opposed to onshore unconventional gas.

“We are making an announcement that protects our brand (of clean green agriculture) and that is what the community wants,” Mr Andrews said.

Exemptions to the ban will remain for other types of activities not covered by the current moratorium, such as gas storage, carbon storage research and accessing offshore resources.

Exploration and development for offshore gas will also continue.

Until the legislation is passed by parliament, the current moratorium on unconventional onshore gas exploration and development will remain.

Moratorium to be extended THE State Government will also legislate to extend the current moratorium on the exploration and development of conventional onshore gas until June 30, 2020.

“We will undertake the most extensive scientific, technical and environmental studies in Australia on the risks, benefits and impacts of onshore gas,” Premier Daniel Andrews said at Jumbunna last Tuesday, August 30.

“These will be overseen by an expert panel, headed by the lead scientist Amanda Caples, and will include farmers and industry, business and community representatives.”

However the premier did not foresee any impact on the existing gas industry.

“We have had offshore gas for a long period of time and we do not think it will change the way we do that,” he said.

During the winter parliamentary recess, Minister for Resources Wade Noonan said he consulted

farmers, community, industry and environmental groups to canvass the issues about unconventional and unconventional gas.

He said the moratorium would allow more time to assess whether conventional gas mining posed any risks.

“There have been no commercially viable quantities of conventional or unconventional gas discovered in Victoria in recent times so that has been a factor in our thinking,” he said.

Unconventional gas refers to an underground source of natural gas found in the layers of three types of rock structures: coal seams, tight rocks and shale rocks.

This may be extracted by high pressure pumping of water, sand and sometimes chemicals into these structures to release the gas.

Conventional gas usually involves drilling directly into gas trapped in porous rocks, which is released without the need for high pressure pumping or fracking.

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PAGE 6 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Koonwarra market entices THERE was no better place to stop on the way to or from the footy last weekend than the Koonwarra Farmers Market.

Fresh produce: Julie Riley from Korumburra’s Grow Lightly had a fine display of delicious fruits and vegetables at the Koonwarra Farmers Market on Saturday.

The monthly market once again put on a fantastic showcase of local goods, produce and live music.

People started to spill into the market early, keen to check out what this month had to offer.

Market-goers were enthralled by the promise of hot food, coupled with the delights of plants, delicious fresh fruits and vegetables, and other nutritious essentials.

Feast: from left, Leongatha’s Wilma McLennan and Gwen Macqueen had their shopping bags ready to load up on Thorpdale potatoes from Mirboo North’s Nick Mollison on Saturday at the Koonwarra Farmers Market.

Volunteers praised for quality service VOLUNTEERS were celebrated during National Meals on Wheels Day last week.

so relationships do form.”

The Meals on Wheels program runs five times a week, preparing hot, cold and frozen meals to recipients. These meals are prepared from hospitals in Leongatha and Foster.

In Australia, more than 10 million meals are delivered each year – either short or long term – to help people stay independent, healthy and engaged with their communities.

The service saves millions of taxpayer dollars annually by using volunteers and keeping people out of hospitals and residential care.

There are up to 13,000 meals delivered to people living in Leongatha, Korumburra, Mirboo North and Foster, and by arrangement for residents outside these towns each year.

National Meals on Wheels Day is celebrated on the last Wednesday in August each year, with the understanding the program provides more than just a meal – it also provides care and strength within the community.

The annual celebration recognises the work of 78,700 volunteers in 740 branches around the country.

At a local level there are 230 South Gippsland volunteers partnering with South Gippsland Shire Council.

Farmers step in right direction

Hunters target Prom deer

Contribution: from left, South Gippsland Shire councillor Nigel Hutchinson-Brooks, South Gippsland Specialist School Meals on Wheels volunteers Brandon Telfer, Blake Howard and Barry Roberts, Gippsland Southern Health Service executive director of nursing Vicki Farthing and Cr Jim Fawcett celebrated the importance of volunteers for National Meals on Wheels Day last Wednesday.

Meals on Wheels – operating out of the Leongatha, Korumburra and Foster hospitals – has brought out the community spirit, with many local groups contributing to the cause.

“All schools – including the preschools – in Leongatha volunteer with Meals on Wheels. We also have volunteers from most church groups, service clubs, Rotary and the Lions, the Woorayl Lodge auxiliary, and of course individual volunteers. Residents in Leongatha are extremely generous when it comes to volunteering,” community program team leader Bernadette Hulls said.

Ms Hulls said the Meals on Wheels program was beneficial so that only elderly residents could continue to live independently, but also for the social contact it provided.

“People enjoy the visits and it means we can monitor the residents and give them someone to talk to,” she said.

“The volunteers love the program too because they get as much out of it as the recipients.

It feels good to give back to the community and some volunteers will deliver the service for years

A FULL house at GippsDairy’s latest Stepping Up, Stepping Back workshop looked at the ‘marriage of convenience’ that is a share-farming relationship.

Held at Federation Training’s Leongatha campus, last Thursday’s session saw 25 farmers looking at ways to successfully form a share-farming relationship.

GippsDairy workforce coordinator Leah Maslen said people who attended were looking to find the best way forward for the next stage of their careers.

Leah, whose family dairy farm is run day-today by share-farmers, said there is a lot to learn about developing a successful share-farming arrangement.

“It’s not unlike a marriage, where you have to find the right person and work hard to make sure both sides are happy with the way things are going,” she said.

“Days like this can point people in the right direction about what they should bring to a sharefarming arrangement and even what they should be staying out of.”

Facilitator John Mulvany took participants through the whole gamut of share-farming arrangements he has come across in his farm consulting work.

He told the farmers some surprisingly simple things can put pressure on a share-farming relationship if they are not considered at the beginning.

Having the ‘hands-on’ farmer bring his or her own machinery, he said, is an example of where needless stress can be avoided.

“If there are two areas of share-farming that cause problems, it is calf rearing and plant and equipment,” he said.

“You hear the farmers say ‘God, he’s hard

Dairy talk: Stepping Up, Stepping Back facilitator John Mulvany (second from left) has a chat after the event with Meeniyan dairy farmers Rob, Chris and Corrine Kelly. on that clutch’, which is why it can be good for share-farmers to own their own tractor.”

Meeniyan dairy farmer Chris Kelly, who attended with his son Rob and daughter-in-law Corinne, said he knew first-hand how badly planned succession can lead to poor outcomes.

“I’ve been through it all before with my parents and we didn’t get a good result from that,” he said.

“I’m determined not to pass that legacy on to my kids.”

The Kelly’s current inter-generational sharefarming arrangement is “doing the job”, accord-

ing to Chris, but needed fine-tuning to ensure a good result for all parties.

“From a business point of view, everything we do in this area, we have to do it together,” he said.

“Today, we got a lot of good advice and feedback in the group sessions and John Mulvany was an excellent facilitator.”

Stepping Up Stepping Back is funded through the dairy service levy. Further session on planning for succession and retirement, as well as share-farming and leasing workshops will be held in coming months, with dates to be announced.

A DEER control program conducted recently at Wilsons Promontory National Park has resulted in the removal of 44 hog deer, a slight increase on previous operations.

This latest operation also confirmed the presence of sambar deer within the park and the population is now larger than previously thought.

Parks Victoria will be embarking on a strategy to monitor and control this population as a priority.

Parks Victoria, in partnership with the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia, the Australian Deer Association and the Game Management Authority conducted the deer control program while Wilsons Promontory National Park was closed last week to simultaneously undertake a major upgrade of the power supply system at Tidal River.

Hog deer are hard-hoofed animals and trample native vegetation and compact the soil, which prevents seedling growth and encourages soil erosion.

Many native plants cannot survive grazing by these introduced animals.

District manager Brett Mitchell said the operation was successful, with a small increase in the number of deer removed compared to the previous operation in August 2015 which removed 42 hog deer from the park.

“We were happy with the professionalism of all teams involved to ensure a safe and streamlined operation was undertaken. In particular, we would like to acknowledge the efforts and assistance provided by the Australian Deer Association, Sporting Shooters Association and the Game Management Authority,” he said.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all involved, as well as our local tourism operators and park visitors for their understanding while the iconic Wilsons Promontory National Park was closed to visitors for safety reasons.”

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 7

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Books come to life LEONGATHA Primary School finished off another successful National Literacy and Numeracy Week with a dress up day on Friday.

Students and staff were encouraged to come to school dressed as their favourite book character.

There was also a competition for the best dressed students.

National Literacy and Numeracy Week ran from August 29 until September 2.

As well as the dress up day, the students enjoyed a Read Aloud Day on Wednesday.

Students invited a special Top choices: from left, Grade 2 students Nickyta, Lauren, Amber, Charley friend - parents, carers, grandand Ebony chose lots of contrasting book characters for this year’s National parents, community member- to their classroom to hear them read Literacy and Numeracy Week at Leongatha Primary School on Friday. aloud for 20 minutes.

Colourful characters: from left, Kierrah as Little Red Riding Hood, Gabie as a Minecraft character and Sienna as Wanda enjoyed the dress up day for National Literacy and Numeracy Week at Leongatha Primary School.

Firies race for children THREE Leongatha firefighters raced up 28 flights of stairs wearing 25kg of firefighting gear in Melbourne on Saturday, in aid of children’s medical research.

Steve Burns, Ben Patterson and Mike White competed in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb, a charity event run by the Firefighters Charity Fund Melbourne.

Career and volunteer firefighters from all over Australasia and the world took part in the event, at Crown Metropol Hotel.

The event simulated the actions of a firefighter entering a burning high rise building, so firefighters wore full structural firefighting protective clothing, including Self Contained Breathing Apparatus comprising a face mask and oxygen cylinder.

The event aimed to raise $343,000 for the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute to fund research and improve outcomes for childhood illnesses.

Goal reached: from left, Leongatha firefighters Steve Burns, Ben Patterson and Mike White after completing the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb on Saturday.

4WDs stolen from Inverloch

people should not leave their keys in their cars and make it easy for them,” Senior Constable Brad Heber of Inverloch Police said.

THIEVES stole two four wheel drives and goods from two properties in Inverloch recently.

Thieves hit unlocked cars

Both vehicles were later located in Warragul and Moe.The Toyota Klugers, both white, were stolen overnight on August 24.

The offenders entered an unlocked house in Messmate Terrace, taking the Kluger keys, the Kluger and items from another vehicle at the property.

The offenders then attended another address in Surrey Place where a second Kluger was located. It was locked but the keys were in a second vehicle at the address and the thieves broke into that vehicle to take the keys.

They then stole the second Kluger.

They later used a credit card stolen from one of the properties to buy petrol and alcohol in the Latrobe Valley.

The Kluger from Surrey Place was later found dumped in Warragul.

The vehicle taken from Messmate Terrace was involved in a police pursuit, which police called off after becoming aware of the driver’s identity. Police later attended his address in Moe and found the Kluger in the carport.

Both Klugers were found with new registration plates. One vehicle sustained damage to the grille.

Three men from the Latrobe Valley have been charged with theft of motor vehicles and numerous deception offences. Morwell Police are investigating further.

Police believe the Klugers were stolen coincidentally, rather than being taken to fill orders.

“These instances are starting to happen and

CAR owners are still not heeding police calls to lock their cars.

In Leongatha last Thursday, thieves entered 11 vehicles overnight in Chamberlain Drive and surrounding streets. All vehicles were left unsecured by their owners and in eight cases, personal property was stolen.

Senior Sergeant Steve Gibson, Wonthaggi Police said, “There was not one report of entry to a locked vehicle, so the message is clear.

“Please secure your vehicle at all times when it is unattended. Without the support of the community in taking basic precautions, we have very little hope of reducing what is becoming a dominant crime trend in both Bass Coast and South Gippsland.”

Sergeant Dale McCahon of Leongatha Police said many of the vehicles were left unlocked in private driveways.

“Random property including loose change, sunglasses, tools and navigation equipment were stolen,” he said.

“Police are very keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area, and are also asking residents in that vicinity to check any security footage they may installed.

“Most importantly is the fact all of these cars were unlocked. It is highly probable the culprits entered many other driveways where the owners had locked their vehicles and therefore prevented themselves from becoming victims.

“It is timely to remember that although

Leongatha, and South Gippsland, is a wonderful part of the world to live, there are and always have been opportunist thieves who will take advantage of those who don’t secure their vehicles.”

Driver nabbed A MAN will face charges of evading police and traffic offences at Korumburra Magistrate’s Court.

Police alleged the 32 year old Narre Warren man failed to stop for police when they tried to intercept him at 4.30am on Friday in the Billson Street area of Wonthaggi, after a suspicious purple Holden sedan caught their attention.

A police vehicle activated emergency signals at which the vehicle failed to stop and accelerated away at speed, estimated to be 125km/h in a 60km/h zone. Police did not pursue due to the dangerous speed. The sedan continued onto West Area Road which is a dead end road. Police patrolled the area for the vehicle and located it at the dead end, where it had collided into a metal fence and bushes and the driver had fled.

Police located the man hiding in bushes. He had received minor injuries to both legs. He was assessed by ambulance paramedics as not requiring treatment.

Drug charges AN INVERLOCH man was arrested for drug offences and breaching bail conditions after being found with drugs on August 29.

Wonthaggi Police found the 27 year old with ice and restricted tablets in Moyle Lane, Wonthaggi, at 11.20pm while patrolling.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 9

Arts upgrades mooted

By Tayla Kershaw AFFORDABLE, accessible and usable are the key elements the Bass Coast community want to see in the draft business plan for the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre.

The draft plan is open for community input until September 19, and plenty ideas have been thrown around to ensure the arts centre becomes a quality community hub.

At a public meeting last Wednesday, people said they would like to see wheelchair access, more professional theatre productions and improved facilities for local theatre groups at the arts centre, plus visual arts exhibitions and newly released movies.

The future of the cinema is still uncertain since the retirement of Keith Stevens, who had been independently running the cinema, but Bass Coast Shire Council’s coordinator of recreation and culture Mark Lindsay was confident council would be able to find a solution.

“While there are no plans for the cinema, we are working hard to find solutions because we know how much the community value the service,” he said.

“The arts centre holds a lot of cultural importance. It is owned and valued by the community and it is used a lot more than we imagined.”

While incorporating several groups into the revival of the arts centre is pivotal to bringing life back into the town, residents feared there would not be enough room if the business plan omitted plans to expand.

“There are no plans for expansion, so there’s no way all these groups can use the space to their full potential. There has to be a compromise. I don’t know where that line would be but on the onset it can’t accommodate everyone,” Wonthaggi resident Irene Williamson said.

Mr Lindsay said a structural audit had taken place and the business case was created based on benchmarks of other art centres.

For local theatre groups, dressing room space and stage practicality were among the issues identified in the business case.

A building inspection also addressed occupational health and safety issues. Fire sprinkler pumps were installed and exit access doors were replaced backstage as a result.

“The specialists were brought in to look over the building said the bones of the arts centre were fantastic, but it does need some love. The theatre groups have done an amazing job with what they had but it’s time to upgrade,” Mr Lindsay said.

Concept design: from left, Bass Coast Shire Council mayor Cr Jordan Crugnale discussed “The design is still open for discussion. We are the plans for the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre’s future with Phillip Island’s also looking a better frontage. We want people to see Kay Setches. this as an iconic venue in the township.”

New hope for centennial centre School

By Tayla Kershaw

THE future of the Wonthaggi Centennial Centre is looking promising, with three groups willing to share the space.

The combination includes Wonthaggi ArtSpace, the Wonthaggi Business and Tourism Association and Visitor Information Centre volunteers.

“Since the decision to close the information centre in February this year, we have been meeting with Rotary and the Bass Coast Shire Council to find the best possible solution for the community,” business association president Dee Connell said.

“During this process, we have also met with all of the groups that have submitted an application to council and from these meetings it was very clear that if we partnered with ArtSpace Wonthaggi and the current Visitor Information Centre volunteers, the building would remain an information centre, be enhanced by the addition of a high quality art gallery, host business meetings, functions and offer many advertising benefits to local Wonthaggi businesses.”

ArtSpace president Ursula Thei-

New home: ArtSpace Wonthaggi president Ursula Theinert hopes Bass Coast Shire Council votes in favour of the art gallery settling into the Centennial Centre alongside the Wonthaggi Business and Tourism Association and Visitor Information Centre volunteers. nert said council’s initial decision to close the centennial centre had seemed bleak to a lot of people, but the outlook was now more positive.

“We had a meeting (last week) which left us feeling positive that this set up will be doable,” she said.

“Our next step is to have another meeting and then the decision for us

to move into the centennial centre will go back to council. Council sincerely wants the centre to succeed.”

If the groups are given the green light to settle into the centennial centre, big plans are on the way.

With the national broadband network about to be connected in Wonthaggi, the groups are hoping to offer a

wifi service for visitors.

As well as the art gallery’s exhibitions, the Wonthaggi Business and Tourism Association will have an office to gather visitor information. Extra storage will be set aside for pamphlets.

The boardroom will be a shared space, which the community would be able to hire for functions or educational purposes.

“We also have dreams for night fairs and sculptural exhibitions. We have some big plans in mind. It will become a hub for the community,” Ms Theinert said.

“The Wonthaggi Rotary Club has supported us well. They worked so hard to raise money for the centre in the early days and it’s wonderful we’ve come to this outcome.”

The groups are looking to freshen up the whole area, with hopes of a playground and barbecue area to be installed.

“We want the space to grow and link the town. There are some lovely areas in town but it’s not very well linked. From this park you could walk or pedal all the way to the State Coal Mine,” Ms Theinert said.

“I think this is a great fit and we are excited to be part of it.”

Councillors’ spending under fire

By Brad Lester THE expenses of two South Gippsland Shire councillors have come under question, with concerns ratepayers are being asked to wear the costs of their electioneering.

Councillors Andrew McEwen and Don Hill incurred travel reimbursements far above those of their colleagues from July 1, 2015 to

• Cr Andrew McEwen

June 30, 2016.

Cr McEwen claimed travel reimbursements of $9021 and Cr Hill claimed $8340, for using their own cars for council business.

Cr Lorraine Brunt told council recently, “You can note a range in what it cost for individual councillors.

“I think we have had a few electioneering expenses in delivering newsletters and that is ratepayers’ money.”

Cr Hill has previously being criticised by his fellow councillors for using a council photocopier for printing the first edition of his socalled ward newsletter.

His printing and meeting sound recording transcripts expenses for the financial year were $1556, while Cr McEwen’s were $834.

Cr Hill said Cr Brunt’s accusations that he ran up his expenses bill by distributing his newsletters were “quite untrue and just another spurious attack on my reputation”.

“My second newsletter was printed in July and

distributed through Australia Post. All costs were paid for by me personally and have not been claimed or will be claimed against council,” Cr Hill said.

Mayor Cr Bob Newton and Cr Kieran Kennedy claimed $48 each, and Cr Brunt $5. No other councillors claimed this expense.

Other councillors use council cars and claimed travel expenses of: Nigel Hutchinson-Brooks, $5204; Cr Mohya Davies, $4918; Cr Kennedy, $4910; Cr Brunt,

$4599; Cr Jeanette Harding, $4484; and Cr Newton, $4296.

No travel expenses were shown for Cr Jim Fawcett because as a personal choice, he does not claim private car use for council business, believing his councillor allowance covers that expense.

“Not claiming reimbursement is a small way of repay-

ing the community for the faith they had in electing me to council,” he said.

“All councillors are entitled to claim a council car or reimbursement for their private car. My action should not be seen as judging others but just my personal choice.”

Cr McEwen did not respond to The Star’s request for comment.

Slow down LEONGATHA Police are disappointed by drivers failing to slow down in school zones.

Police have been disappointed by the increase in the number of people detected speeding in the 40km/h zones.

Offending drivers have been receiving penalty notices.

Letterbox theft • Cr Don Hill

A LETTERBOX was stolen from an address in Leongatha’s Young Street on Saturday, September 3.

The letter box was aluminium, painted white and has number 57 on it.

If anyone finds it dumped in the area, they should contact Leongatha Police.

overhaul comes closer

By Tayla Kershaw WONTHAGGI Secondary College is a step closer to receiving upgraded facilities.

Detailed planning work is underway for future upgrades to the school, after the school received a cut of $12 million in the Victorian budget.

Eastern Victoria MLC Harriet Shing recently announced the appointment of architects Clarke Hopkins Clark to design the school upgrade.

The school also received $95,000 in planned maintenance funding to improve the condition of the school buildings. The maintenance funding will be combined into the planning project to produce better outcomes for the school.

“We’re improving educational facilities in the Bass Coast area because we know that quality infrastructure gives our students and teachers the learning environment and momentum they need to achieve their potential,” Ms Shing said.

In the meantime, Bass MLA Brian Paynter is still fighting to bring the education precinct to fruition.

“The Wonthaggi Secondary School community has been waiting a long time for this project to get started. The promise of planning money should have also come with a promise that funding for the new senior campus would be in the 2017-18 budget,” he said.

“The State Government gloats about dishing out maintenance money but the school wants a new campus, not money to spend on a building that needs to be pulled down.

“The Minister for Education needs to make the announcement that the senior campus will be funded in the next budget.”

Bass Coast Specialist School principal Edith Gray said an education precinct would only be positive.

Ms Gray said she loved the idea of the precinct, which would be built in McKenzie Street alongside the Bass Coast Specialist School.

“We are stuck out at the edge of town and the precinct would mean our students would feel more connected. I would love it if it were built tomorrow,” she said.

“Having the increased interaction would be terrific and it would benefit both our school and the community. We could have more dual enrolments and people studying things like certificate one in childcare could come in and work with our Preps and pre-Preps.”

Ms Gray said the development would have no impact on the size of the specialist school, and there was plenty of room to accommodate a new secondary school and TAFE college.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

BRAVE: Leongatha’s Melissa Orgill is spreading the word about the Kids with Cancer Foundation Australia. She will be shaving off her lovely locks to help families with children undergoing treatment. She is aiming to raise $2000 by the end of the month.

Local businesses have shown her amazing support by offering donations and raffle prizes. Anyone wishing to donate can do so with tins located in businesses around Leongatha, or by going to Melissa’s funding website https://kwcfundraising.everydayhero.com/au/losing-my-locks-forkids-with-cancer.

Melissa said she wanted to be part of this cause to help support local families in the community and raise money and awareness.

PET CREMATIONS

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

PEA2420005

Pearly Mates Helping families: from left, in Inverloch, RSL members John Langford and Cynthia Lambie, Inverloch Legacy Widow Joan Ginn, president of Inverloch Legacy Widows Club and Legatee Maureen Ross, and RSL member Bob Lambie helped sell merchandise during Legacy Week, last week.

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

We offer affordable rates and a caring service.

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

Legacy thanks South Gippsland

MENTION THIS ADVERTISEMENT FOR SPECIAL RATES

SO CUTE: children at Inverloch and District Preschool adorned the costumes of their favourite book characters to celebrate Book Week recently. Among those taking part were Ellen and Lily of Kangaroo Group.

FRIDAY, August 26 at Korumburra was more than just an Olympic dress up day. It was gold all round with the usual gold coin cost of participating made instead the donation of a tin of food.

Four supermarket trolleys lent by Michael’s IGA were delivered to the Milpara Community House food bank with 431 tins of food.

Milpara House program coordinator Belinda Nicholls was amazed at the amount of food delivered by the four Grade 6 student council representatives Chris, Tegan, Baylee and Tameah. Ms Nicholls said the donation would help many people in the district.

LEGACY relies on the help of many volunteers from Legacy clubs and the RSL, and the past week during Legacy

Week was no exception.

Many volunteers throughout South Gippsland braved the cool weather to sell badges.

Legacy Week is the annual appeal to raise aware-

derful that participants have decided to have an exhibition of the work at the Leongatha Library.

The work will be hung on September 12, and on Friday 17 and there is an artist talking about the work and the processes from 11am until noon.

All are welcome to inspect the art during that period or come along and listen to the guest artist.

ness and funds for the families.

Funds raised from Legacy Week help Legacy continue to help 80,000 widows and 1800 children and people with disabilities Australia-wide.

Legacy thanks all those who contributed by buying a badge, giving a donation or just stopping by for a chat.

can apply by Friday, October 14.

All applicants should discuss their projects with foundation executive officer Derrick Ehmke on 0418 301 092 or info@mirboodistrictfoundation. org.au before applying. Grants criteria available online at www.mirboodistrictfoundation.org.au

BASS Valley Primary School at Corinella celebrated Book Week on Friday with a dressup day. The theme was Australiana. Students were also treated to a show called Labyrinth in the Library.

THE Mirboo North and District Community THE course Environmental Art for Garden Foundation is now taking applications for $45,000 Lovers at the Leongatha Community Garden has worth of community grants for projects benefiting been completed. The results have been so won- Mirboo North and the surrounding townships of Boolarra, Darlimurla, Dumbalk, Thorpdale and Yinnar.

Local not for profit community organisations

V/LINE SERVICE CHANGES

COACHES REPLACE TRAINS ON THE GIPPSLAND LINE Sunday 11 September to Wednesday 14 September Sunday 18 September to Tuesday 20 September Due to metropolitan track works, coaches will replace some evening trains on the Gippsland line.

ZO641318

To check times and for more information visit vline.com.au, call 1800 800 007 or follow us on Twitter @vline_gippsland

Authorised by V/Line Pty Ltd, 750 Collins Street, Docklands

EXPERT TIPSTER: Woorayl Lodge’s Evelyn Nunn was thrilled to win this year’s footy tipping trophy against fellow residents. Ms Nunn, now 103 years old, has participated in the competition for several years and has picked up a rhythm in the past three years, coming third in 2014, second in 2015, and now first. She won the tipping with 138 points.

Second and third place was a close competition with Frankie Johnson getting 131 points and Faye Coghlan 130 points. Warwick Thom, on just 91 points, received this year’s wooden spoon.

Ms Nunn said the competition was a bit of fun through the winter, and residents enjoyed watching footy games together throughout the season.

Ms Nunn is a Richmond supporter with a soft spot for Hawthorn as well.

WELCOME DADS: Preps from Leongatha Primary School celebrated Father’s Day last Thursday with a delicious egg and bacon breakfast. Dads were delighted by handmade gifts and a chance to visit their child in their classroom. Anika is pictured enjoying the breakfast with her dad Rob Van Velzen.

RENAMED:

Mount Vernon Road, off the Strzelecki Highway has been unofficially renamed, in honour of Parrots gun coach, Beau Vernon. If the Leongatha Football Club Seniors can pull off a win in the grand final this year, who knows? It might even be made official.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 11

With South Gippsland and Bass Coast shire residents to go to the vote next month, new candidates continue to nominate. Nine positions are available on each council, with three councillors to represent each council’s three wards. Here is what the latest candidates have to say.

Sherry wants to make region great SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council candidate Matt Sherry believes he knows the region’s needs.

The Port Franklin man will contest the Coastal Promontory Ward election this October.

“I pride myself on being a community man. I have always volunteered on various charity events and community projects and am always determined to ensure the best outcome is achieved,” he said.

“Anger and unrest has become evident throughout the region, whether it be dairy farmers who have been short changed or issues regarding funding of jetties, getting roads Hat in ring: Matt Sherry of fixed, employment or the topic Port Franklin will contest the of youth. I believe there is the Coastal Promontory Ward need for some form of change. during the South Gippsland “What I can tell you is that Shire election. accountability is something I hold very closely. I am always campaigning and ensuring allocations of funds are being distributed into the right areas and expenditure is being handled the right way.

“Transparency and clarity are very important to me.”

Mr Sherry said he is passionate about making sure South Gippsland is a great place for the future.

“I enjoy the history, farming, environmental beauty, the people, its lifestyle and friendly nature. It gives me and many people a sense of belonging,” he said.

“I am committed and will work hard to service the whole shire of South Gippsland leaving no stone unturned with no area neglected. I will bring common sense back into the situation at hand.”

Aaron promises generational change THE youngest candidate in the South Gippsland Shire Council election so far has been announced.

He is 30 year old Aaron Brown, he will stand in the Strzelecki Ward.

“I live on the family farm at Wattle Bank, which is a few kilometres outside the South Gippsland Shire.

My decision to run in the Strzelecki Ward was due to my business and agriculture related background and skill set which I believe would be better utilised in this shire,” he said.

The beef and sheep farmer runs a beef and sheep enterprise in South • Strzelecki Ward candidate Gippsland and holds a degree in Aaron Brown. agriculture.

In 2013 he was awarded the inaugural Rabobank and Victorian Farmers Federation Scholarship to work and study cattle farming in Queensland with the North Australian Pastoral Company.

Mr Brown is a committee member of the Southern Australian Meat Research Council, representing south east Victoria and Tasmania.

He also runs his own small business involving commercial property.

As a fourth generation South Gippslander, Mr Brown believes councillors must be focused on the needs of citizens to obtain the best outcomes.

High on his list are dairy farmers, small business people, pensioners and self funded retirees.

“Many who should be enjoying a comfortable lifestyle are being crippled by huge and ever increasing rates and charges and are finding it hard to make ends meet financially. Council should be doing as much as possible to recognise this and assist them,” he said.

Mr Brown is also concerned with the lack of job opportunities for young people locally, and wants more support for small businesses.

He said if elected he would help the farming community. He believes stability and confidence in council is critical.

Mr Brown will support policies that improve council’s accountability, integrity and efficiency and he understands the pressure natural resources are under.

“I will support policies that preserve South Gippsland’s pristine environment whilst providing sustainable economic growth for future generations,” he said.

Mr Brown said his candidacy for Strzelecki Ward was about achieving realistic outcomes and he believes he has the skills, enthusiasm and dedication to achieve this.

He can be contacted at aaronbwp1@bigpond.com

Frank promises to Cheaper rates empower communities possible, says Hirst THE last nudge Frank Oostermeyer needed to stand for South Gippsland Shire Council came from an elderly friend.

That friend said, “Frank at least you are prepared to stand up and do something about issues you feel strongly about.”

The Dollar resident will contest the election for the Coastal Promontory Ward.

“I am passionate about everything I get involved in. I, along with my wife Claire, are very mindful of community involvement and how valuable a strong united community Core focus: Frank voice can be.”

Oostermeyer of Dollar has Both are members of the CFA and car clubs. In 2011, the couple promised to return South was involved with the Dollar com- Gippsland Shire Council to munity to secure funding to have part basics if elected to represent of Dollar Road upgraded to a higher Coastal Promontory Ward. level of safety.

“Then in 2015 I challenged the council with a 223 submission to the budget. The issue was based on the fairness and equity of rates but particularly when it came to being re-zoned unfairly,” Mr Oostermeyer said.

“We won our case which also set a precedent for other residents to challenge council determinations.”

Mr Oostermeyer has “no intention of being a wallflower”, nor tearing down walls and starting afresh.

He wants to: • get the council back to basics and focus on core services; • give communities a greater stake in the decision making process of council; • improve transparency and governance, and bring council meetings back to towns and community halls; • support and develop incentives that bring new business and employment through a sustainable 15 year council plan; • fast track individual and community grievances; • stop the $32 million-plus council building program but look for alternatives; • deliver rate reduction through savings and reducing waste; • develop a shared services approach with neighbouring councils; and • investigate non-core council jobs and functions originally funded by State and Federal governments to identify where funding has been withdrawn and the shortfall being charged to ratepayers.

COUNCIL candidate Frank Hirst is pledging real reductions in rates without reducing services.

The Ranceby sheep farmer will contest the Strzelecki Ward of South Gippsland Shire Council at the council election this October.

Among his policies are: • a rate discount scheme to reward farmers who control their weeds and manage land sustainably, much like Bass Coast Shire Council’s; • improving the culture within • South Gippsland Shire council to ensure it serves ratepayers as an accountable service Council candidate Frank Hirst. provider; and • a respectful council chamber where issues are debated openly and decided on genuine merits.

Mr Hirst is pledging a shire run by elected councillors rather than the executive, with a flatter management structure and greater transparency.

He will find a lower cost alternative to the $32 million municipal precinct council is considering to replace the existing council offices and Leongatha library, and long term equity in capital works expenditure for Korumburra, smaller towns and rural areas. “(I will apply) more pressure for improved road maintenance and upgrades. Roads are the lifeblood of our highly productive farming district,” Mr Hirst said.

He believes council is now run by majority that wants to preserve the status quo, while the views of the minority’s “progressive ideas are usually stymied”.

“This majority group says the shire is going swimmingly but that’s not what I see or hear from ratepayers,” he said.

With no hidden agendas, political affiliations, “closet skeletons” or personal property development goals, Mr Hirst said he has the “tenacity to achieve balanced, long term outcomes for the South Gippsland community”.

A resident of Strzelecki ward for 37 years, Mr Hirst has raised a family on a farm and worked for the former Department of Primary Industries for 30 years.

He is a member of Lions, Landcare, agroforesty, conservation, Coal Creek Community Park and Museum, table tennis and football umpiring groups.

Brett to unite Geoff to inspire Bass Coast THE need for better communication throughout Bass Coast Shire inspired Wonthaggi’s Brett Tessari to run for the Bunurong Ward in this October’s council election.

WATTLE Bank’s Geoff Ellis is refreshing the template for Bass Coast councillors by listening to people on footpaths across the new Westernport Ward.

He is attending resident, ratepayer and foreshore meetings, and emailing a weekly newsletter.

If elected, he will continue face to face conversations and use Since putting his hand up to be the newsletter to keep people ena candidate, Mr Tessari has been gaged across the shire. pleased with the community’s supMr Ellis is promoting farmport and wants its voice to be heard. gate and gallery based tourism, Community focus: Wattle Mr Tessari has worked in Phil- Candidate: Wonthaggi iden- and advocating for safer roads, in- Bank’s Geoff Ellis. Ellis will lip Island, Inverloch and Wont- tity Brett Tessari is running tersections and foreshore works. be running for Westernport haggi over the past 30 years and in the upcoming Bass Coast He is committed to fiscal reis also president of the Wonthaggi Shire Council election to im- sponsibility and social account- Ward in the Bass Coast Shire Football Netball Club, where he ability, and believes young people Council election in October. prove communication across should be encouraged to get involved in the community. has showed his strength is bringthe shire. ing people together.

Born in Sydney, work in logistics management led Mr Ellis to ocIf elected, Mr Tessari said the first point of order would be to get cupational health and safety and industrial relations. funding to deliver projects to improve the shire.

In Port Melbourne, he was chairperson of a not for profit organisa“We’ve got to cut down on the money wasting. I think we need to tion assisting frail and aged people. review where the money is going and be more productive,” he said.

After moving to Wattle Bank, Mr Ellis worked on a dairy in “Not having a basketball stadium is a joke. We can’t expect our bas- Woodleigh. ketballers to play at a school gym that is not up to standard. Soccer has As president of the Wattle Bank Community Group, Mr Ellis has had amazing growth in the area and we need better facilities to cater for experienced the intricacies of fighting for improvements. the players’ needs. There are so many talented sports team and all our This has led to a series of irate letters to the editor and the occasional facilities are just a bandaid. rally.

“We also need a school precinct and to get it we need to have some He writes for local community magazines and was heavily involved money behind us so we can put pressure on the State Government in- in ‘CSG Free” and ‘Don’t Kill Bulk Bill’ campaigns. stead of relying on election promises.”

“Voters can be informed by talking to candidates, not by glossy picMr Tessari said many of his fellow candidates share the same views tures with vague slogans,” Mr Ellis said. and hopes to work with them to achieve goals.

His frugal nature carries over into basic, locally printed campaign “I’ve worked closely with Max Wells and Les Larke, who are also material. running for Bunurong. They are intelligent men and I would work with “The intrinsic strength of our shire lies in groups that meet regularly them,” he said. to keep our community moving forward,” he said.

Mr Tessari will be holding two information nights in Inverloch and “Under the rate cap, it is essential councillors can work together as Cape Paterson in mid September. a team with the whole community.”

“I work in Wonthaggi and have a lot to do with the community, but Email Mr Ellis at wpwbcge@gmail.com to receive his newsletter or residents in Inverloch and Cape Paterson may not know me as well. find him on Facebook (Geoff Ellis Westernport) or along the footpath – This is an opportunity to have a meet and greet with everyone in the Newhaven shops during afternoons on September 19 or the Grantville ward,” he said. shops during afternoons on September 6 and September 20.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

OPINIONS

Time for new councillors

THE time has come for a complete change at the Bass Coast Shire Council. In my opinion, nine new members should be elected for the three wards.

The existing council members have worked to the best of their ability for this community.

All ratepayers should congratulate them for the time and effort they put in to this difficult and time consuming job.

However, the ratepayers are unhappy as shown by the last performance reviews that rated the council the lowest in Victoria for satisfaction, lack of transparency, secrecy on the costs of consultants and pay rates for the senior staff - no cuts here.

This is not entirely the fault of the elected councillors.

It seems that rather than pay staff, senior staff take pay increases and bonuses at the expense of services to the ratepayers.

Considering our availability of expenditure funds, it seems management has become top heavy in the organisation at the expense of support

workers in the departments needed to run the shire.

We are told cost saving measures have been put in place by combining workloads of departments.

Please give us an explanation for how two senior property valuers and an administration officer have been made redundant can be seen as a cost saving measure?

What is the yearly cost of employing consultants to replace their work?

I understand now we have a part time general manager. As second in charge of shire affairs, who will do the work?

Are there in-house staff qualified to fulfil this position? How much will hiring a ‘preferred’ consultant cost the ratepayers to fill the gap?

This is another example of where we want transparency please.

As a parallel, there are many farmers in this district including Bass Coast Shire who trusted Murray Goulburn dairy corporation.

The CEO and board have walked away after a disastrous period of decision making, taking with them big bonuses at the expense of the dairy

E D I T O R I A L Now to look to the future THE State Government’s decision to ban the exploration and mining of all onshore unconventional gas, including the risky mining technique fracking, resulted in a wave of relief across South Gippsland last week.

The community has fought a persistent, resilient and well informed campaign across the prospect of coal seam gas (CSG) mining being undertaken in the region, to protect the environment, farming and the landscape we treasure.

Premier Daniel Andrews rewarded the community with his announcement at the Jumbunna property of Brian and Cheryl Enbom last Tuesday, August 30, an apt location given the couple’s dedication to Landcare and improving their own farm.

While it is unfortunate the decision took so long to reach, the government had the responsibility of assessing the possible benefits to the state of Victoria against the risks, given the potential energy source unconventional gas may have provided.

As Mr Andrews outlined last week, the risks were too great.

While there is no doubt CSG would have most likely produced some economic benefit to those farmers who wanted it, the industry would have resulted in the region becoming crisscrossed by wells and access tracks, making many farms unsuitable for dairying or grazing.

The State Government is to be congratulated for making a decision that no other state or territory government had, particularly in light of the former Northern Territory government planning to extract onshore shale gas.

While that gas is different to coal seam gas, the decision is reported to have contributed to the government losing office last month, in the wake of public opposition.

The discrepancy between states on unconventional gas mining shows the need for a more unified and informed national approach to energy policy, as surely if the risks of unconventional gas are not worth it for Victoria, the industry is not suitable for anywhere else in Australia either.

While the Bass Strait gas fields are expected to last for many decades yet, the long term and inevitable task for a future state government now lies in finding alternative energy sources to meet the state’s growing needs.

This fact was highlighted by the Energy Networks Association last week in response to the government’s announcement.

ENA chief executive officer John Bradley said, “Imposing a state wide ban on gas exploration and production will undermine the role natural gas can play in supporting a cleaner, affordable energy system.”

A new energy source may well come in the form of a possible new offshore gas field or further research into conventional onshore gas may reveal extraction methods that are environmentally safe – and therefore of no risk to agriculture and tourism.

Time will tell.

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

farmers in the co-operative.

Again, so much for transparency as secrecy prevailed. The consequences of these actions will be felt for many years to come.

It seems there is also secrecy around the subdivision in Inverloch where the transfer station is to be closed.

How is it that the land in this area which is estuarine and subject to coastal inundation has been given the go ahead to be developed?

For the benefit of a few people, the rest of the local population is being disadvantaged, considering the rates we pay.

In the process of community awareness, the expressed wishes of the community were not adequately considered.

I thought as constituents our council members would represent us.

I look at how so many issues were handled and I do not like what I have seen: dogs on the beaches restrictions; Surf Parade foot path and traffic redirection; closure of transfer stations; and let’s not forget the closure of the tourist information centre in Wonthaggi.

This was built by the community with government support and the full support of the shire.

I feel so disappointed the Rotary club, that worked so hard to make this happen, was treated with so much disrespect.

Like others I am very disappointed in issues that have been raised in the past. Because of the prolonged and poor decision making that has occurred, this is why I would like to see a clean sweep at these council elections.

Glenn Cant, Inverloch.

Seeking Carole Pope

FOR some reason I just unwrapped my doona that I had dry cleaned earlier this year at Leongatha.

The dry cleaners has since closed.

Imagine my surprise to find a queen size mattress topper and not my queen size doona!

The mix-up is due to the owner of the mattress topper having the same surname.

So if you read this, Carole Pope, and wonder what happened to your dry cleaning, I have only just discovered it.

If you are interested, I’d like to swap.

Margaret Pope, Inverloch.

Budget probe

BASS Coast Shire councillor Bradley Drew recently published information lauding Bass Coast Shire Council’s performance, which in my opinion was misleading and made me wonder can he be looking at the same information that I am.

My information is from council budget’s from council’s web page.

He should note staff numbers have not been “…decreased by 20+”.

The actual 2015-6 fulltime equivalent is 322.9 and the budget for 2016-17 is 315.5- a reduction of only 7.4.

The figure of 315.5 is 56 more than Baw Baw that manage $15 million more income and 26.1 more than Surf Coast that manage $4 million more income.

Fifty-six employees at the average employee cost of $ 92,726 means Bass Coast pays out $5,184,536 per annum more than Baw Baw. At 7.4 less employees at the average cost of $92,726, the saving in employee cost is $686,172, not the $3 million as stated by Cr Drew.

Cr Drew stated, “….this council keep operational cost increases to zero in this year’s budget”.

Operational costs (total expenses) have increased by $1.65 million from last year’s budget.

Operational costs in the 2015-16 budget were $70,207,000 and in the 2016-17 budget $71,856,000.

The council budget 2015-6 stated income was $74,006,000.

This year’s budget states actual income for 2015-16 was $73,232,000, a drop of $774,000 less income than the budget.

Last year’s budget 2015-16 showed expenses of $70,207,000.

This year’s budget showed actual expenses for 2015-6 was $71,222,000, an increase in expenditure of $1,015,000.

So expenses were up and income was down $1,789,000 worse than the 2015-16 budget. Not a great result.

So how can Cr Drew state Council is doing well?.

Cr Drew states the asset renewal is 100 percent. He is wrong. The 2016-17 budget clearly states the asset renewal for 2016 is budgeted at 74.8 percent, with similar figures for the next three years.

The budget also states, “A value of 100 percent or greater is considered an essential target”. Note Baw Baw has an asset renewal of 116.9 percent.

Does Cr Drew understand the financial information produced by council?

How can he misinterpret the published information so incorrectly when it is patently obvious to anyone who examines the information can see he is wrong.

This is a clear indication to voters in the October elections we need councillors who can understand budgets and financial information.

John Swarbrick, Rhyll.

Survival of local football

THE term ‘grass roots’ football is used by many, especially those at the highest level of administration of our great game.

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

The reality is ‘grass roots’ football is clubs such as those left in the Alberton football league as these are the heart and soul of their local communities.

Volunteers give hundreds of hours to encourage and educate our next generation of AFL stars to the highest skill level.

Local kids get to experience a club environment with the grounding of being part of a football family community.

The decision to reduce the Alberton football league to seven teams could see these clubs struggle to survive.

Our clubs, many with a 125 year history have survived many difficult times facing wars, hardship and tragedy over many generations.

During these years we have built on our traditional rivals and continued to put teams out on the ground.

How do we now survive the AFL Gippsland decisions and its high handed attitude that does not encourage our clubs, players and volunteers into the future?

Show me the support for ‘grass roots’ football in the form of a lifeline to the Alberton football league.

Marilyn Flett, Foster.

Keep reserves

I REFER to your article in the recent edition of The Star, “Tarwin Lower Craft Shop Saved”, in particular Cr Lorraine Brunt’s comments on Venus Bay. Obviously she hasn’t been to Venus Bay lately! Too many trees; the environment and trees are part of the reason most people buy here.

Most know it’s a high fire risk area and are prepared to take the risk.

I have lived in Venus Bay for 20 years and have yet to see a koala. Kangaroos yes but no koalas. Animals do get killed mostly due to speeding drivers and bad road conditions.

All this doesn’t alter the fact that these blocks were recorded as recreational reserves and as such should stay so.

Peter Henwood, Venus Bay.

Two down and five to go

TWO Bass Coast councillors have pulled the plug and let’s hope the remaining five heed the clear message from the people of Bass Coast and decide not to recontest the elections in late October.

These councillors and the CEO are responsible for Bass Coast gaining the dubious dishonour of being nominated the worst council in Victoria, according to the recent State Government’s survey of all councils in the state.

The way to ensure we get a clean sweep of council in October is for electors to place all remaining sitting councillors last on their

ballot papers.

The present council is dominated by the Greens or environmentalists, and this is the same reason the democratically elected Federal Government is being frustrated by the Greens in Canberra.

Look at Inverloch; banning dogs on our beaches, shutting down the transfer station, which is busier than its counterpart in Wonthaggi and the madness of the chicane or tightening of the thoroughfare that is Surf Parade, at enormous cost.

We will get the opportunity of voicing our disapproval at all these idiotic decisions on Sunday, October 2 at a giant rally at the Inverloch Recreation Reserve at noon.

The transfer station serves more people from Inverloch when it opens from Saturday to Monday than the Wonthaggi transfer station which opens every day.

What has not been stressed is that during the summer holiday period the population of Inverloch increases fourfold from the resident population of more than 5000.

This is explained by the fact the holiday homes, owned frequently

by Melbourne people who come here to holiday, or are occupied by holiday rental tourists.

The town swells to more than 20,000.

And where do they deposit their rubbish or recyclables?

The answer at the moment is the Inverloch transfer station.

Can you imagine the extra 1500 people traipsing all the way to Wonthaggi? No. And I don’t know where.

Can the bright sparks from Bass Coast’s elected councillors give us an answer? Obviously they can’t.

This, and all the stuff ups over the years, is the reason they must all be kicked out.

I urge you to write to your local and metropolitan papers, ring the radio stations and inundate the TV channels with your complaints against this pathetic council.

And as for the CEO, who gets more pay than the premier, he should forego his bonus and instead pay a penalty, considering the woeful outcomes achieved during his term in office.

Just think of all the money wasted on outside consultants, when the highly paid employees of council should be providing the answers councillors require.

Give us a break and let the five remaining councillors also desert this sinking ship.

And let’s elect new blood in October.

Ross Smith, Inverloch.

VOXPOP! VOX

What food do you like to eat at the football?

“I like hotdogs because they’re yum. I have one almost every time I go to the footy.”

Joel Kershaw, Glen Alvie.

“I like hot chips with sauce because they keep me warm,” Taya Hayes, Inverloch.

“I like to eat donuts with pink icing.”

Alana Hayes, Inverloch.

“I like hot chips with sauce.

They’re warm and I don’t eat meat so they are great.”

Alice Mulqueeny, Inverloch.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 13

Council targets greenhouse gases SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council will continue to aim to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent on 2009-10 levels by 2020.

This will be done by looking for further efficiency improvements, and renewable energy and resource efficiency initiatives in public and community buildings.

Council adopted its Sustainability Strategy 2016-2020 recently.

Cr Nigel Hutchinson-Brooks said the previous strategy had secured grants worth than $450,000 in grants to implement projects.

Cr Andrew McEwen felt the new strategy should be left to the new council to consider, after the October election.

“When the new council comes in, there may be new opportunities for funding,” Cr McEwen said.

The strategy describes climate change as the “preeminent environmental issue of our time”.

“Increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are changing the climate in ways detrimental to social and economic well-being,” the report stated.

Current research suggests climate change impacts in South Gippsland will likely result in more days over 35 degrees, less annual rainfall, more days with high and extreme fire danger, more extreme weather events, less water in rivers and wetlands, more weeds and pests, and higher sea temperatures and sea levels.

“With the economy of South Gippsland

so heavily reliant on its natural resources (agriculture and tourism) the South Gippsland Shire is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change,” the report stated.

Council, together with Bass Coast Shire Council, will also coordinate the running of the annual South Gippsland Sustainability Festival.

The strategy also calls for: • encouraging carpooling for council staff, councillors and the public; • encouraging community gardens and kitchens to promote home vegetable gardening, local produce and composting education; • promoting local food producers and retailers and sustainability practices; • supporting and promoting the continuing development and implementation of the Sustainability Gippsland website; • working with the community to implement a community energy project; and • supporting audits for households, businesses and community groups to identify opportunities to improve energy and water efficiency.

Proposals within the 2016 strategy will be funded by allocated budgets. Grants will be applied for when possible.

The final strategy was considered after council considered a draft version at a briefing on May 18.

The draft was placed on public exhibition from May 23 to June 17.

Creating opportunities: Structured Workplace learning coordinator Karena Kerr of South Gippsland Bass Coast Local Learning and Employment Network with Leongatha Holden manager Russell Hemming. Leongatha Holden hosted a student as part of the program.

Teens explore world of work DURING 2016, secondary college students have been undertaking a workplace learning placement as part of their studies.

South Gippsland Bass Coast Local Learning and Employment Network is working with local businesses to create placement opportunities as part of the Department of Education.

The program enables students undertaking Vocational Education and Training students access to placements as part of their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), Victorian Certificate of Applied learning (VCAL).

The Structured Workplace program facilitates engagement between schools and employers, and supports schools to source local placements for

students while identifying the needs of local industries, said program coordinator Karena Kerr.

Russell Hemming, manager of Leongatha Holden, offered a placement in 2017 for a student studying Certificate Two in Automotive at the new South Gippsland Trade Skills automotive workshop at the Leongatha Education Precinct.

He knows the importance of supporting students with work placements as he sees the positive outcomes not only for the student, but also for his staff and business.

If your business would like the opportunity to host a structure work placement student in 2017 or you are a student, parent or employer who would like further information on the program, contact Karena Kerr on 5662 5500.

THERE’S STILL TIME TO COMPLETE YOUR CENSUS. We took our system down as a precautionary step to protect Australians’ data.

We’re sorry for the inconvenience.

The online form is running smoothly and securely. Your data is safe.

Please complete it online or in paper form now. You will not be fined for completing the Census after Census night.

If you have your Census letter and would like to order a paper form, please call our automated paper form request service on 1300 820 275. It’s open 24 hours.

If you haven’t received your household’s Census materials, a Field Officer will visit you soon.

Remember, the Census helps plan for Australia’s future.

For more information, please visit the Census website.

PLEASE COMPLETE YOUR CENSUS.

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Fairies frolic in Lyric show LEONGATHA Lyric Theatre’s upcoming production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream has a cast that includes many young actors.

Amongst these are the eight girls who play fairies from the Eucalypt forest, bordering a 1970s Australian rural town.

They serve their Queen, Titania, and help her prevent Oberon, King of the Fairies, from stealing Fantasy land: the Frolicsome Fairies in Leongatha Lyric Theatre’s production of A Midsum- the Indian Changeling Boy. The fairies share the mer Night’s Dream played by, from left, Yasmin Tough, Autumn Crimp, Chloe Nielsen, Ten- forest with five cheeky elves and a forest creature called Puck.

nessee Crimp, Kaitlyn Gale, Megan Gale, Samina Wanstall, Nevada Crimp and Ella Tough.

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TOP-TO-BOTTOM WINDOW

ROLLING COLOUR EFFECT

Four young lovers venture into the forest one night and by bright moonlight the Fairy Kingdom manipulates their affections, resulting in romantic mayhem. By the first morning light, they feel they have all been in a dream.

While other romantic comedies may end in a wedding, this play finishes with three happily married couples.

This is Shakespeare’s most popular play, mainly because it is about the world’s favourite pastime, falling in love.

The script transfers seamlessly to Lyric’s more modern setting. With a cast of 31 talented actors of all ages, this show is sure to entertain the whole family. There will be five evening and four matinee performances from September 23 to October 2.

Tickets are available online at www.lyrictheatre.net.au or at the box office, opening September 8, at Great Southern Outdoors, 1 Bair Street, Leongatha, Thursday to Friday from 11am to 3pm, and Saturday, 10am to noon. Phone 0490 525482.

Open season for Snake Island AFTER many years of campaigning, hunters will be given an opportunity to hunt hog deer on Snake Island, a decision welcomed by some and slammed by others.

COLOURFUL EASTERN SPINEBILL

MICROPRINT

Australian banknotes are among the safest in the world and, to keep them that way, the Reserve Bank is introducing a new series of banknotes.

The new $5 banknote is now in circulation. It has many innovative features designed to make our banknotes clearly more secure. Importantly, all existing banknotes can continue to be used.

Discover more at banknotes.rba.gov.au or call 1800 633 220

A two year trial of balloted hunting will commence from February 2017. No more than eight hunters will be allowed to hunt at any one time and hunting will not be permitted on weekends or public holidays.

The trial will be reviewed in 2018 following the completion of two seasons.

The decision made by the State Government was welcomed by pro hunting groups, including the Australian Deer Association (ADA).

The Snake Island Cattlemen’s Association, however, is furious the decision was made without consultation with island user groups.

Previous efforts to make hunting possible on Snake Island were unsuccessful in 1991, 2004 and 2013. The ADA put forward a fresh proposal late in 2015.

ADA Victorian president Col Brumley praised the Victorian Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio’s announcement of the hunting trial.

“Hunters have been asking for this since the ’60s and actively campaigning for balloted hunting on Snake Island for the past 25 years,” he said.

“It’s one of those issues where we were convinced the principle was sound so we persevered with it.”

Snake Island Cattlemen’s Association president Peter Mabilia said his group is “more than disappointed at the State Government’s decision”.

He said the government’s failure to consult with island user groups was shocking.

“We have known for a lot of years the shooters have been trying to get onto the island. Three years ago we went through the process with consultation,” he said.

“This time it is a done and dusted deal with no consultation whatsoever. If they haven’t contacted us, they haven’t contacted other user groups. How that can happen in a democratic society beggars belief.”

Mr Mabilia said he has nothing against hunters, but he is against them being on “an island like that”.

“We don’t know if it is sustainable, we don’t know how many deer are there, there has been no studies, no management plan done.

“It is not just us against it,” he said.

Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien said it was astounding Labor had approved hog deer hunting ballot trial without speaking to key stakeholders such as the cattlemen’s association or other tourism operators.

“This has been a contentious issue for many years now and the announcement was a complete surprise to those opposed to hunting on the island,” he said.

“This is typical of Daniel Andrews’ arrogant approach to governing.”

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 15

Children save the day STUDENTS at Inverloch Primary School were given the chance to be superheroes for a day on Friday.

In support of Muscular Dystrophy Australia’s National Su-

perhero Week, students donned the masks and capes of their favourite superheroes.

“We have a family affected

by Muscular Dystrophy in our school community and being part of this initiative was the

idea of our Kids Matter Student Action Team,” Spanish teacher and action team coordinator Jacqui Castillo said.

“They helped promote the cause by making posters and

Supergirls: from left, Grade 3 and 4 students Jayda, Lottie, Poppy, Eleanor and Willow Tough: from left, Grade 3 and 4 students Sam, Bella, Hamish donned superhero capes to and Brayden showed off their muscles and superhero cos- support Muscular Dystrophy tumes for Muscular Dystrophy Australia’s National Super- Australia at Inverloch Primary hero Week at Inverloch Primary School on Friday.

School on Friday.

‘Prom Country’ image ‘outdated’ DOES the label ‘Prom Country’ represent all of South Gippsland?

That was the question before South Gippsland Shire Council recently, when council considered the South Gippsland Branding Review report.

The review of how the region is marketed suggested council retain the Prom Country tag but Cr New approach needAndrew McEwen said ed: South Gippsland many people in Loch, Shire Council canTarwin Valley and Mir- didate Jeremy Rich boo North did not relate believes the region’s to the Prom Country bounty could be probrand.

He said the report moted more successlacked adequate consul- fully. tation with the public and the consultants had inadequate time to conduct the review.

Cr Mohya Davies disagreed, saying many businesses carried the term ‘Prom Country’ and it was a successful tourism label.

“German backpackers come to the region because

of the Prom,” she said, praising the report.

Mayor Cr Bob Newton suggested the brand ‘Prom Coast’ was a better reflection of the shire’s long coastline and Cr Jim Fawcett agreed, adding there were too many competing brands already.

Walkerville farmer Jeremy Rich, also a candidate for council, told council he was disappointed the report did not refer to the Tarwin Valley Development Group’s previous research.

That group, of which Mr Rich was formerly chair, aims to promote produce, art and other attractions in the Tarwin Valley, which includes Dumbalk, Meeniyan, Fish Creek, Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay. “How do we leverage off what we have got?” he said.

“What do people recognise? Do people recognise Prom Country?”

The report before council carried 33 recommendations, including: • developing an alternative brand name for cobranded ventures between South Gippsland and Bass Coast shires (cost of more than $4800); • further promoting the region’s natural beauty and proximity to Melbourne, it’s quaint villages and outdoor lifestyles; and • refining the Prom Country app.

Council voted to refer the report to council’s Economic Development and Tourism Steering Committee or its successor to respond to the recommendations via another report to council.

giving speeches at our school assembly.”

All students donated a gold coin towards Muscular Dystrophy Australia’s program, services and research.

Superhero stance: from left, Grade 1 students Claire, Billy, Lachy and Daisy were ready to save the world in their superhero costumes in support of Muscular Dystrophy Australia at Inverloch Primary School on Friday.

PAGE 16 - “THE STAR� Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Landcare hero up for award “Working across the whole region gives me AFTER winning the 2015 Victorian Landcare Young Landcare Leader Award, the opportunity to see the results of the work over years,� she said.

South Gippsland Landcare Network co- the “There is still a lot to be done, but seeing the ordinator Kate McKenzie is now in the results is really rewarding.� running for national recognition.

Kate has been a champion in the region in

Go Kate: South Gippsland Landcare Network coordinator Kate McKenzie is in the running for a national award, after winning the state Landcare Young Landcare Leader Award last year. The winners will be announced in Melbourne on September 22.

Kate is one of eight finalists in the national Landcare Young Landcare Leader Award category and is also in the running for the people’s choice award, alongside all 69 national finalists.

After starting her career at SGLN in 2010 as a project officer, Kate took on the role of network coordinator last October. “I studied environmental science at university and have always had a love of the outdoors,� she said. “When I finished studying, I got a job with the Mitchell Shire Council and as part of that role I attended a Landcare meeting. “I was impressed with the group’s commitment, enthusiasm and desire to improve its area.�

Kate said when the job came up at SGLN around three years later, she jumped at the chance.

Her role is largely project based, which Kate said is really rewarding, particularly the work around the Corner Inlet catchment and the Bunurong Coast.

mitigating pest plants and animals.

As executive officer of the Community Weeds Taskforce for five years, she has run a range of education days and has presented posters and papers at several conferences.

She said pest plant and animal management is a network priority. “We have done good things through the Community Weeds Taskforce, which brings agencies and Landcarers together,� she said. “We will continue to focus on ways we can assist there.�

Kate said she is really excited about being in the running for the award and also quite humbled. “It is great for raising the profile of Landcare in South Gippsland. It is not about me, it is about acknowledging this is a really vibrant, active area for Landcare which is something to be celebrated.�

The people’s choice award is an opportunity for South Gippsland to show their support for their Landcare hometown hero by voting online at nationallandcareconference.org.au to ensure Kate (nee Williams) takes the big trophy home.

Voting is open until 6pm on Wednesday, September 21.

The national awards presentation night will be held in Melbourne on Thursday, September 22.

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Bunny bait: contractor Peter Wright, right demonstrates how to lay Pindone baits to the group attending the rabbit control workshop held in Tarwin Lower last Tuesday.

Ready and rearing for rabbit control AN INTERESTED group of landholders gathered at Don and Sally Jelbart’s Tarwin Lower property last Tuesday, to learn about the release of a new control agent for rabbits.

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The control is a biological agent known as rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus variant from Korea, (RDHV 5K) and is a booster of the RHD virus, commonly known as calicivirus.

The group heard about the national release of the virus from Agriculture Victoria biosecurity officer Alex Thorpe, which is planned for next autumn.

The release will be coordinated by the Invasive Plants and Animals Committee in consulta-

tion with Australian Wool Innovation and Meat and Livestock Australia.

Alex encouraged the group and other landholders, to plan rabbit control actions to follow up the spread of the virus, in order to maximise the population knockdown.

Local invertebrate pest control contractor, Peter Wright then explained the different methods suitable for the control of rabbits in a range of conditions.

This included baiting, fumigation, warren distortion, harbour removal and shooting.

For more information on the rollout of RHDV K5 in Australia, and information on best practice pest animal management visit www.pestsmart. org.au.

Powlett River tree planting MORE than 25 people planted 2,000 trees on Saturday, September 3 along the Powlett River, Kilcunda.

“The planting of the trees is part of some 143,000 tree plantings which have taken place in the current season throughout Bass Coast Landcare region,� Landcare coordinator Dave Bateman said.

Saturday’s effort was undertaken by members of the Powlett Project Landcare group, part of the larger Bass Coast Landcare network.

The planting site is along the river at Clive

Hollins’ farm Manuka. The site has high conservation significance and is part of a major project.

Multiple benefits from this planting will include increasing Orange Bellied Parrot and Australian Grayling habitat.

Participants were also treated to an indigenous cultural induction from Bunurong Land Council during a lunchtime barbecue looking out over the Powlett estuary.

The project was jointly funded through the Victorian Government’s Threatened Species Program and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s River Health Program.

Good turnout: despite early morning drizzle, almost 20 people gathered for the tree planting.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 17

LMCT11565

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Get big Mazda deals at Gippsland’s family owned Mazda dealer!

1975 Princes Highway, Nar Nar Goon

All M Day offers presented apply to new vehicles purchased on M Day, 10th September 2016, that can be delivered within the month of September 2016. M Day offers not available with any other offer. Brand-New CX-9 is excluded from M Day sale. ^3 Years Mazda Standard Roadside Assist. *Free Registration and Compulsory Third Party Insurance are for 12 months only. #$500 Mazda Genuine Accessories offer applies to a specifically designed M Day Accessories Pack for passenger vehicles and SUVs. BT-50 receive $500 Mazda Genuine Accessories voucher.

T 03 5942 5238 brucecloughmazda.com.au

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 19

Last chance to help Ella DO you wish to give a child the chance of better hearing while having the opportunity to win a car?

Then you have one week to buy a ticket in the Ella’s Ear Car Raffle.

Proceeds from the raffle will support surgery for Ella Morgan, a 10 year old girl with a congenital ear condition called Microtia Atresia.

The condition affects the formation of the outer ear and the development of the ear canal.

As a result, she has severe conductive hearing loss in her right ear, mild hearing loss in her left, and cosmetically an underdeveloped right ear.

Ella is the granddaughter of Jim and Joy Morgan of Leongatha and daughter of son Nick and Bel and sister to Lucy, 5, and Evie, 3, of Albury.

She will undergo reconstructive surgery that is complex and only performed in the United States of America by a specialist team at a cost of some $110,000.

To support the fundraising effort, Darryl Mc-

Gannon of Edney’s Leongatha has offered a great deal on a popular Nissan Micra ST Auto Hatch that is now being raffled.

If you would like to help this little girl with a big struggle, then tickets are available at The Great Southern Star office, Edney’s of Leongatha, Panther’s Mensland, and Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha and Inverloch.

Only 1000 tickets are being sold and all tickets purchased are tax deductible.

Ella will draw the winning ticket at Edney’s Leongatha on Wednesday, September 14.

So, fundraising has reached $79,000.

If you would like to know more about Ella’s fundraiser see www.ellasear.com or www.facebook. com/HelpEllaHear or call Joy on 0418 424 329.

The Morgan family wishes to thank everyone who has donated in any way to help Ella’s dream come true.

Ella and her family leave for the USA on Saturday, November 5, ahead of her surgery on November 10.

On the way: Ella Morgan (centre) with her sisters Lucy (left) and Evie, is appreciative of the South Gippsland community’s support of fundraising for her upcoming surgery.

Why are Gippsland men over

30% more likely to die from Prostate Cancer?

Alarmingly, Gippsland men with prostate cancer are 30% more likely to die than their city counterparts.

WHY? Recent research shows Gippsland men with prostate cancer are usually: • Older when diagnosed • More than twice as likely to have widespread or advanced Prostate Disease when diagnosed and • Often this diagnosis occurs incidently to other treatments

SAGE THE MES ....

IS CLEAR

Gippsland men leave it too late!

GP1511989

GET OFF YOUR BACKSIDE If you are 40 years old with a family history, or 50 years old or over, discuss testing options with your doctor today.

For further information phone 1800 220 099 or go to the website at www.pcfa.org.au

Latrobe’s

Bigges Big gestt Ever Ever

B lokes BBQ

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Waterline towns gear up for Spring SPRING is here and for waterline towns Sunny days are just around the corner and for along the Bass Highway between Lang many it is off to the holiday house or for weekLang and San Remo things start to get enders to have a picnic or stopover looking out over the bay. busy.

What do the waterline towns have in comTasteful indulgence: the popular Kilcunda General Store offers a delicious range of fabulous wholesome and fresh food, coffee and cakes and the ocean views are spectacular all year round.

The friendly staff including Carol Carrington and E.J Van Geest always serve up tasty fare and friendly local service. While in Kilcunda be sure to fill your basket with fresh, local produce from Udder and Hoe, tucked behind the Kilcunda store, showcasing Gippsland’s finest.

mon? The way to reach each attraction is via the Bass Highway, a scenic driving route through coast and country, alongside sea and bay, and with many highlights along the way.

The highway begins at the junction with the South Gippsland Highway at Lang Lang, and heads south through farmland and bush to the popular stopover point of Grantville, serviced by many stores including a well stocked newsagency and real estate agents including Alex Scott and Staff, a local agent with outlets across South

Gippsland and Bass Coast.

On the way to Phillip Island you can call into the other Waterline towns of Coronet Bay and Corinella, each has its unique character. Corinella is serviced for local provisions at the Corinella General Store.

If Wonthaggi or Inverloch is your destination, then a stop at Kilcunda is well worth it, just for the ocean views and a coffee or food stop at the popular Kilcunda General Store.

Kilcunda is great for a break at the playground, a spot of whale watching from the carpark, a walk over the historic bridge or just meander along the private beaches.

The place really comes alive between September and April so get out there and enjoy it!

Supporting local: from left, San Remo IGA fresh food staff member Trent Hill of Grantville and store manager Shayne Crawford of Woolamai are always busy in their local San Remo supermarket and are proud to be supporting so many local produce producers and an expanded range of products following a major store upgrade some two and a half years ago.

Keeping it local at San Remo IGA WHETHER it is farm fresh hydroponic lettuce from Corinella, fresh honey, milk, cheese, ice cream, oils or vinegar you find a great range of local produce at San Remo IGA, along with an expanded range of products following the major store upgrade some two and a half years ago.

Store manager Shayne Crawford of Woolamai said they stock a great range of local produce and are more than happy to talk to any local supplier and promote their quality produce.

“We also stock a great range of cheese, many from the local area including the award winning

Berrys Creek Tarwin Blue. This would be our number one cheese seller and we sell about 10 kilos a week now but in summer we would sell 30 kilos. We even have a lady come from Pakenham regularly to buy her cheese,” Mr Crawford said.

The store is busy all year round, helped by the loyalty card program that has proved popular with locals.

“We are gearing up for a huge day on September 22 with our big one day meat sale. It is always so popular; people are queuing up at the door before the store even opens, “ Mr Crawford said.

San Remo IGA really strives to look after its customers and make sure the store is bright and clean and a nice place to shop.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 21

Don’t miss Leongatha High reunion FORMER Leongatha High School students will come together at a reunion on Saturday, October 8 at the Leongatha Tennis Club.

The reunion will be held for anyone starting Form 1 in 1965, ’66 or ’67, through to Form 6 in 1970, ’71 or ’72.

The reunion is not limited to these years and Leongatha Technical School students from the same era are also welcome.

To find out more, email Leila Wilson (nee White) at leeby54@gmail.com

Back then: Form 6E at Leongatha High School in 1972 gather for a class photo.

Your say creates plan THE South Gippsland Shire Council’s latest OurSay forum wrapped up today (Tuesday, September 6) and has identified several ideas for the new council to consider.

The input collected through the forum will help council develop a future vision and determine key projects to achieve.

Council’s coordinator corporate planning and council business June Ernst said one of the first important requirements of the new council, elected in early November, would be to create a vision and direction for the shire’s future.

“This will be captured in a new four year 2017-2021 council plan,” she said.

Learning a trade: student Blake Howie enjoys supervised carpentry at South Gippsland Specialist School.

Arts inspire students A SMALL idea at the South Gippsland Specialist School in Leongatha has blossomed into a fully fledged project following the establishment of a ‘performing arts centre’.

With an emphasis on promoting literacy, language development, creativity and teamwork, the newly repurposed space will give students the chance to showcase their acting, singing and dancing talents.

Donations to the project have been made by The Newsboys Foundation and The Andrews Foundation, which provided funds to install curtains and lighting.

Bendigo Bank provided new ottoman chairs for the space.

In addition to the performing arts centre, a new song based on the school’s motto “Together We Grow” has been written by music therapist Letitia Condron. With lyrics addressing friendship,

looking out for each other and shared learning, the song will be performed by staff and students using Key Word Sign at every school assembly.

“This school motto captures the essence of the South Gippsland Specialist School in Leongatha where staff work alongside students and their families to help them reach their goals academically, socially and emotionally,” said Claire Aeschlimann, school speech pathologist.

“We want our students to experience success, to work cooperatively within the school and engage with local community programs within our region.”

South Gippsland Specialist School aims to provide special needs students from the age of five to 18 with the opportunity to explore a range of activities and discover what they truly love to do. The school includes spacious classrooms, a therapy pool, gymnasium, fruit and vegetable gardens, animals, a commercial kitchen and trade training centre.

The plan will set out the most important outcomes council aims to allocate its resources towards in the coming four years and beyond.

“The OurSay forum aims to gather ideas and views on what is most important to community members in shaping the future of the shire,” Ms Ernst said.

“It will be given to the new council to consider as part of the suite of information they will draw from, to develop the council plan.”

The online OurSay forum gives the public the chance to raise ideas, comment on them and vote on them.

The ideas will be presented to council shortly after they are sworn in early November.

Housing vision takes shape A PLAN guiding housing within South Gippsland Shire Council is moving closer to coming into effect.

South Gippsland Shire Council recently voted to implement the Housing and Settlement Strategy with council’s planning scheme.

Planning Minister Richard Wynne will be asked to authorise preparation of an amendment to the scheme to make this happen.

The strategy guides long term settlement in the shire while protecting farming, the environment and affordable services.

Cr Mohya Davies told council, “It clarifies where council will and won’t support growth and how the shire will grow into the future.”

The final amendment will then be exhibited

for public comment.

The strategy was added as a reference document into the South Gippsland Planning Scheme on June 5, 2014.

Council’s planning manager Paul Stampton said, “The implementation has required a considerable amount of further work including clarification of exact boundaries/ownership and lot configurations, as well as discussions with land owners of restructure areas, and inclusion of older restructure areas at Venus Bay. “A number of State Government changes have also impacted on the process as has an increase in the number of land rezoning/development plan applications that also require prioritisation for staff time.”

Time to talk about life IN March 2014, the Victorian Department of Health launched Advance Care Planning: have the conversation - A Strategy for Victorian Health Services 2014-2018.

The strategy aims to ensure all Victorians accessing health services will have opportunities to express their preferences for future treatment and care.

In June 2016, Gippsland Southern Health Service (GSHS) received a grant from the Gippsland Region Palliative Care Consortium to implement this strategy.

Advance Care Planning is designed to give people the tools to plan, discuss and document their medical wishes should they be in a situation where they can no longer speak for themselves.

End of life discussions can at times be chal-

lenging for family members, especially if the person’s wishes are not widely known.

Advance Care Planning is designed to help create this communication within the family and alleviate some of the anxiety when having to make life altering or ending decisions.

It has been reported family members have reduced levels of anxiety, depression and posttraumatic stress.

GSHS has been working with local GP clinics to ensure a combined approach to these changes and ensuring continuity between community and hospital.

GSHS is the first health service in Gippsland to implement these changes with an ongoing structured approach.

GSHS encourages people aged over 18 to have the talk with their family and when ready Start the conversation: from left, Kirsten Amos, Advance Care Planning project officer and make an appointment at their GP clinic to discuss Robyn Butler from Leongatha Healthcare are urging the community to discuss life altering or ending decisions relating to medical care. their wishes.

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Plea to save Hooded Plovers COUNCILLOR Phil Wright is dissatisfied with Bass Coast Shire Council’s efforts to protect the threatened Hooded Plover species.

In a heated debate recently, Cr Wright accused his fellow councillors of not doing enough for the birds when they refused to back his alternate motion to hold public meetings and discuss protection strategies.

“I’m very unhappy and I think we should just get on with it. The birds are already here. We had six discussions about this and we delivered nothing. We have a responsibility here and it’s a disaster; we just haven’t done enough,” he said.

The six discussions were workshops held in June and July to discuss strategies required to save the birds.

Cr Wright’s alternate motion would push the finalisation of the protection strategy to the October meeting. His fellow councillors felt there was no sense in delaying the strategy.

“I applaud Cr Wright’s enthusiasm but we haven’t received the outcome of the recent workshops so I can’t criticise something I haven’t seen and I don’t think we can delay this decision by another month.

We need to go ahead in September for immediate action,” Cr Andrew Phillips said.

Councillors voted for the original motion to receive a further report at the September meeting.

“The intent of the (Cr Wright’s) motion was to come together and discuss what we can do. Right now, we just have meaningless words,” Cr Wright said.

“Smiths Beach hasn’t had Hoodies for 28 years.

Are we just going to accept these birds won’t survive?”

Cr Rankine assured the gallery council was serious about protecting the Hooded Plovers.

“We are finding the biggest problem is predators and we are certain at the end of this we will get something,” he said.

The final draft strategy will be presented on September 21.

School crossing hopes SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council will apply for $60,000 to build a supervised school crossing to service Fish Creek and District Primary School.

• Bass Coast Shire Cr Phil Wright.

Council will seek the funding from the 2016-17 Transport Accident Commission (TAC) Local Government Small -Scale Infrastructure Grants Program.

Council will also allocated $60,000 to the project, if the TAC grant is approved.

The school is seeking council support for the crossing.

Cr Mohya Davies said the crossing was dangerous as the busy road to Foster and Wilsons Promontory National Park runs past the school.

Life savers have a cracker year THE Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club had a huge season in 2015-16, including a 21 percent increase in patrol hours and a whopping 1200 percent increase in rescues year on year.

It also recorded a 13 percent increase in beach users during the summer period and a 126 per cent increase in club memberships, now at about 500.

To confirm the club’s stellar season, the club was named the 2016 Club of the Year at the Life Saving Victoria awards of excellence in July.

Kimberley Gee was also victorious for the club at the awards, named Trainer of the Year.

“That means we were ranked the best club in Victoria and in six weeks, we will be off to represent the club and the community to try and be the best in Australia,” club president Craig Watson said.

“Our longest serving continually patrolling member David Cumming will also be at the national awards, to accept a meritorious award for outstanding bravery.”

In December 2015, David was having his lunch at the beach when he noticed four people enter the water and immediately get washed out in a rip.

With 35 years’ experience, he immediately went into rescue mode. One person made it to shore on their own and David recued the remaining three.

“Two out of those four people would not be alive if not for David,” Mr Watson said.

The club saw an increase of 50 percent in first aid assistance provided by active members last season and an increase of more than 24 percent in preventative actions taken by patrolling members.

The club is run by volunteers, yet it costs around $100,000 each year to keep its doors open.

Most of its money comes from membership fees, donations, events and grants.

“We receive zero dollars from either the South Gippsland Shire Council, or the State Government,” Mr Watson said.

“Over the next year, working with council, we would like to see if there is room in the budget for it to provide annual funding for both the Venus Bay and Waratah Bay surf life saving clubs.

“We are the only volunteer emergency service that is also a sport.”

To start the 2016-17 season, the club is running an endurance ironman event in the Tarwin River, hopefully between two or three local surf life saving clubs.

“It will be a one day, six hour long event to raise awareness of river safety,” club committee member Paul Hoffman said.

“We hope to turn it into an annual event that engages the whole community.”

Great season: Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club committee member Paul Hoffman and president Craig Watson presented an update to South Gippsland Shire Council recently. The club also took the opportunity to show off its Life Saving Victoria Club of the Year award, received in July.

Mayor’s message Cr Bob Newton

Business savvy speaker THE South Gippsland Shire Council hosted an event recently as part of the Victorian Government’s Small Business Festival, which featured guest speaker Dan Gregory.

The workshop was held at the Salvation Army building in Leongatha on Wednesday, August 24.

Mr Gregory, best known as a panellist on the ABC TV’s Gruen series, was speaking in each of the Gippsland shires.

Council’s coordinator economic development

SOUTH Gippsland will remain a place known for high quality food production and its natural beauty following the Vicand tourism Ken Fraser said the event was open torian Government’s decision to permato all businesses.

“Dan was an excellent speaker and very popu- nently ban the exploration and developlar with the audience. We received good feedback ment of all onshore unconventional gas in Victoria. with many staying around afterwards,” he said.

“He spoke on some practical ideas from his experience in the advertising world.

“These included being prepared to do things that will make you stand out from the crowd and thinking creatively to make experiences for your customers they won’t receive anywhere else.”

Just business: from left, South Gippsland Shire Council’s Anna Anthony and Ken Fraser, Allan Steenholdt from Alex Scott and Staff and guest speaker Dan Gregory at the event held in Leongatha recently, as part of the Small Business Festival.

This decision reaches so much further than some people realise; it removes any anxiety felt by local farmers in regards to the environmental and health risks associated with fracking and it’s a weight off the shoulders of the broader South Gippsland community with many having been worried about the impact of unconventional gas extraction on the environment and landscapes of the region for some time.

Council has provided long-standing support for the Victorian Government to ban unconventional gas. In a nutshell, it’s a huge relief.

The ban on the unconventional gas industry in Victoria ensures the protection of our local agricultural and tourism sectors from any risks that are associated with the industry. The whole community can now rejoice in knowing the unconventional gas industry will have no place in South Gippsland.

Council is asking residents of Foster, Korumburra, Mirboo North and Venus Bay to have their say on how an additional $400,000 is spent on capital works in each town for the 2017-18 financial year.

People will have the chance to participate in an online forum where they can vote on projects identified from their community plan and the Long Term Capital Works Program or provide their own ideas.

The forums are part of the Community Capital Works Allocation project and will remain open for three weeks.

We are encouraging everyone to be involved in the project so council can be adequately informed of the priority project each community identifies for these four towns.

People should start voting and posting any new ideas as soon as possible as it provides everyone with more time to make comments and provide their support to ideas that align with their own values.

Anyone wishing to be involved with the forums can visit council’s website, or check for updates on council’s Facebook page.

Community workshops will be facilitated with these

communities in late October/early November to discuss the results from the forums and to form a recommendation for council to consider in December 2016. This really is such a unique way for people to get involved and get things done.

Congratulations to all the South Gippsland finalists in the Bendigo Bank Gippsland Business Awards and a special mention to Services-Trade and Construction category winner, CPK McLaren Motorbody in Leongatha.

This award recognises that CPK is the premier vehicle body repair business in Gippsland. Another local finalist in this category was Country Cart Waste Disposal in Leongatha. Other finalists were Begin Bright Leongatha in the New Business category, Your Style Store and Fickle Fashion, Korumburra, for Retail and Cottage Garden Threads, Mirboo North, in Manufacturing and/or Export.

The Gippsland Business Awards have been celebrating the achievements of Gippsland businesses for over 18 years and is the pinnacle business awards event in our region.

I encourage all local businesses to nominate the next time round. It certainly is a great way to provide you with valuable and deserved recognition.

Australia Day Award nominations are now open!

This is your opportunity to recognise outstanding people in your organisation, club, or community who make such a difference. It’s a simple way to say thank you from us all.

Each nominee will be recognised at an official awards ceremony in Leongatha in January 2017. Nominations are open until October 31. Information and nomination forms are available on council’s website.

I would like to thank my fellow councillors for celebrating National Meals on Wheels Day last week by taking part in meal delivery rounds. The special day is a time to recognise the thousands of volunteers who contribute their time each week to deliver meals in their communities.

Meals on Wheels delivers meals to frail older people or people with disability and their carers. This helps to allow them to continue to live independently. Council’s program delivers around 13,000 meals every year to people living in Leongatha, Korumburra, Mirboo North and Foster, and other arrangements are made for residents outside these towns. It was truly a pleasure for us to be involved in such a unique program that nourishes, cares for and strengthens communities.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 23

Naturally good for your health NATUROPATHY is a system of alternative medicine that uses techniques such as diet, vitamins, minerals, exercise and herbal medicine to support the body’s functions.

Naturopath Jody Saunders is based at Mirboo North Pharmacy and can provide iridology, hair tissue mineral analysis, comprehensive health screenings, herbal medicine, nutrition and Bach flower essences.

“Through using diet and lifestyle changes, herbal medicine and nutritional supplementation, naturopathy can help our bodies work more efficiently and restore equilibrium,” she said.

“The first consultation is quite involved and

includes getting to know the patient’s case history and a health screening test to work out how their body is functioning.”

Ms Saunders said naturopathy can give patients a different perspective on their health and another option to achieve health related outcomes.

Naturopathy is suitable for people with a specific condition they want to address, such as infertility, menopause, period pain or PMS, or just for general wellbeing. It is also beneficial as preventative medicine.

Ms Saunders is available for private consultation at the Mirboo North Pharmacy on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Herbal help: Mirboo North naturopath Jody Saunders can help restore health and wellbeing using a range of techniques, including diet and lifestyle changes and herbal medicine.

Clinic devoted to women

IF you are a woman aged over 18 years, Sharon Goad and Jo Humphries are women you should see on a regular basis.

The two nurses run the fortnightly women’s health clinic at the Korumburra Medical Centre on alternating Wednesdays.

The next clinic on September 14 is an opportunity for a woman to have her breasts checked, a pap smear taken, seek advice on menopause or any other women’s health topic.

Sharon and Jo between them have been working at the Korumburra Medical Centre for many years. Jo has been there for 18 years.

They were both trained at Family Planning in

Friends indeed: from left, Sharon Goad and Jo Humphreys are health care professionals who run the women’s health clinic every second Wednesday at the Korumburra Medical Centre.

Box Hill.

Due to improvements in identification techniques, the interval for pap smear testing is being increased from two to five years.

With the extent of their experience in women’s health, the nurses are a valuable asset to women in the community.

For any concerns or abnormalities that arise

from a routine check, a doctor is brought in for consultation.

Sharon is one of seven Victorians who make up a panel that credentials nurses to carry out pap smears so you are dealing with real health professionals at the clinic.

For further information, including fees, contact the clinic.

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Children love breakfast club STUDENTS start the day at Wonthaggi Primary School with a delicious healthy breakfast.

On Tuesdays and Fridays, the school hosts a breakfast club from 8.15am until 9am to ensure students receive the nutrition they need to enjoy the day.

Baked beans, toast, cereal, fruit and Milo are all on the menu thanks to a government school grant from Foodbank Victoria and generous donations from Wonthaggi’s Connell’s Bakery.

Staffed by the Inter Church Council and comPlenty of choice: back from left, Department of Education and Training senior education munity volunteers, students enjoy a sociable improvement leader Jane Mersey, Bass MLA Brian Paynter and Wonthaggi Primary School morning as well as breakfast. principal Leonie Anstey joined students, from left, Emily, Khiana, Ruby and Matrix for “We’ve seen that having the breakfast club breakfast. The students were enjoying a spread of cereal, toast and fruit. helps children get to school on time,” principal

Leonie Anstey said.

“Morning attendance has been a lot stronger since it started, as it eases the pressure of the morning routine, and ensures parents and students get to school and work right on time.

“Eating together as a whole school has also created a very sociable environment with students striking up conversation with one another.

It’s gives them a happy start and is a wonderful part of the day.”

The breakfast club started last year and 150 students – or half of all students – enjoy the routine.

Recently, students were joined for breakfast

by Bass MLA Brian Paynter, who endorsed the program and commended the school for ensuring all students enjoy a healthy breakfast.

Suicide survivors to walk SURVIVORS of Suicide (SOS) will be holding its first Out of the Shadows and into the Light walk on Saturday, September 10.

The event, by Lifeline, will coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day. The walk starts at 10am at the Rhyll Inlet Wildlife Reserve, 411 Cowes-Rhyll Road, Rhyll, Phillip Island.

The walk will be led by with Jamie Simpson from Gondwana Walkabout and will be approximately two kilometres. Donations would be greatly accepted for Survivors of Suicide and Lifeline.

The walk will remember those lost to suicide.

SOS encourages people to talk about the topic of suicide.

Phillip Island has a higher than average suicide rate, so the community is urged to help those who are vulnerable or who have been bereaved by suicide.

This conversation needs to be started with our young children, right through to the elderly, to educate them that suicide is not an option, and that there is help available.

As the day could bring up for emotions for those attending, trained counsellors will attend.

Register your intention to join the walk by going online to Out of the Shadows into the Light to register or email sosgippsland@hotmail.com

Grant steers drivers to safety History buffs: Coal Creek education program leader Emma Fellows-Cooke helped students THE Gardiner Dairy discover the history of region.

Foundation has a small

Students explore the past LOCAL primary and secondary school children gathered at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum at Korumburra to take part in a generational learning community history program recently.

The program ran for two days, with students taking advantage of historical resources to prepare a project they will present to teachers, their families and local dignitaries this month.

The innovative event is a celebration of local history through the eyes of children that Coal Creek education program leader Emma FellowsCooke said provided a unique point of view.

“The project provides a link between young people and the custodians of our local heritage within our community,” she said.

“By interviewing family members of soldiers and local history experts in Coal Creek’s unique setting, students are immersed in the past so they

have direct experience of their heritage.”

The program was made possible through funding provided by the Department of Education and Training strategic partnership program.

“This program shows that Coal Creek is more than just a tourist attraction,” Mrs Fellows-Cooke said.

“This program demonstrates our capacity to be an invaluable educational service provider.”

The following schools will present its generational projects on Thursday, September 8, at 7pm; Loch Primary School presenting Loch’s banking history and the history of the Loch Primary School, Korumburra Primary School presenting Korumburra World War One recruits Percy Tolson and Thorton Newton, Nyora Primary School presenting the history of the Nyora hall, and Korumburra Secondary College presenting Korumburra pioneer Antonia Radovick.

A Star is born

grants program that supports projects in Victorian dairy communities.

The foundation recently presented the Bass Coast L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program with $5000 to go toward the cost of replacing one of its aging L2P program vehicles.

L2P coordinator Veronica Dowman said, “I am delighted to receive this cheque on behalf of the 27 mentors and 33 learner drivers who look forward to driving in a newer and safer program car.”

Robin Bell, from the National Centre for Dairy Education in Gippsland, said, “I see firsthand the problems faced by our young people when applying for work and enrolling for courses of study, then needing to depend on parents to drive them to work or access classes, often clashing with their parents’ own work times.

“Quite often, the reason many

Opening doors: L2P mentor Peter Mertens with learner driver Suzie Smith of Kernot. young people don’t already have their driving licence is the limited time available for parents to take them out to get their hours in order to sit for their test.

“Any opportunity to offer them access to a trained mentor and a suitable vehicle in which to practice would take a huge strain off the parent’s and family in general, and in many cases give them a wider range of driving conditions and driving skills.”

Ms Dowman said the grant, administered through the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, was a great contribution.

“We are seeking more donations to buy a new program vehicle, as well as more mentors who are always in demand,” she said.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or a VicRoads trained mentor, contact Ms Dowman on 0467 590 679 or email basscoastl2p@hotmail.com

Save Turtons Creek RON Brown from Mirboo made a “last effort” to the South Gippsland Shire Council to influence its behaviour towards Turtons Creek recently.

Mr Brown was concerned about current and proposed logging activity in the area.

“They shouldn’t be logging any of those trees at all,” he said.

Mr Brown also called for the refurbishment of the Turtons Creek tennis courts and said a relocatable building could be brought in to the township as a hall.

“It could be very useful,” he said.

Milpara Community House news MEMORY is important.

KYAH Paige Brown was born on August BRODIE Levi Haw was born on August 24 at Leongatha Hospital. She is the first 22 at Leongatha Hospital. Brodie is the first daughter for Melissa Brown of Leongatha. child for Matt Haw and Mandie Wright of Leongatha.

Many of us notice our memory gets worse as we get older, but it can be difficult to tell whether this is a sign of an underlying condition that needs following up. Milpara is running an information session called Worried About Your Memory?

Get advice and practical tips for improving you memory and find out when you should investigate memory difficulties. This is a free interactive workshop but let Milpara know if you are attending.

Developing your Online Strategy is our next Small Business Victoria workshop and will be on next Tuesday, September 13.

Milpara will be looking at booking more workshops in 2017. Milpara would love your feedback on what sessions you would like to attend and which evenings suit best.

A few weeks ago we had another hobby painting day, a progression from the Introduction to Warhammer. Painting skills were shared, there were discussions about different games and characters were discussed.

As a result Milpara is now scheduling a monthly session. So the first Saturday of the month is dedicated to getting your geek on. October will see a painting day, November an introduction to Dungeon and Dragons, December an introduction to Warhammer. So mark your calendars and let us know if you would like to attend.

Our foodbank has been well supported recently.

Korumburra Primary School and Korumburra Bendigo Bank both ran successful food drives. This was greatly appreciated. Milpara can be contacted on 5655 2524.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 25

STAR Real

THE GREAT SOUTHERN STAR

Stunning views Page 29

Leongatha

PAGE 26 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The perfect entertainer T

HIS property is located in a quiet court within the walking distance to the shops and surrounded by quality homes.

It is well designed for a family with three separate living areas, allowing everyone in the home their own space.

The kitchen/family room is open plan and adjoins both the second living area and the covered alfresco/outdoor dining area. The kitchen has a large island bench, walk-in-pantry and a 900mm stove, and both rooms have sliding glass doors to the outdoor living, providing excellent space for the family that like to entertain.

A great selling point is the drive through access to the backyard complete with a lockup shed that is currently used as a man-cave, and a great paved area for when you want to entertain outdoors.

It is a big house with many features.

GJG2190011

Welcome home.

Wednesday 12noon - 3pm and Saturday 2pm - 4.30pm or by appointment 5952 2150

LEONGATHA

113-115 Parr Street, Leongatha

17 Veronica Court Stockdale & Leggo Leongatha 5662 5800

$515,000

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Legislation to benefit buyers CHANGES to price quoting announced by the Government are a significant step forward and will greatly benefit those looking to buy real estate in Victoria, the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) said recently.

REIV CEO Geoff White said that the changes will create a more transparent market, providing clear information to all stakeholders.

The changes include the revision of the property’s estimated selling price - if the agent receives an offer, in writing, that is higher than the current advertised or estimated price, no “offers over” or “price-plus” advertising to buyers – with the selling price only provided as either a single price, or a price range (which must fall within 10 per cent of the upper and lower end), and delivery of a new fact sheet for buyers, which will include recent compa-

rable sales for a property, the median price for the suburb and, most importantly, the agent’s estimated sale price for the property.

The changes will apply to residential - rather than the rural or commercial market - auctions and private sales.

Mr White said the reforms would be effective in a variety of market conditions, and for all stakeholders in property transactions.

“A key objective of the new laws has been to ensure that they are effective in a rising or a falling market, and we believe they have delivered on this objective,” he said.

“The changes will provide consistency in pricing of property and the information provided to both vendors and buyers.”

Mr White said that the reforms were the result of a collaborative approach by the REIV and the Minister for Consumer Affairs.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 27

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Country retreat G

ANOOK is a most beautiful and livable property of two and a half acres with an exceptionally well built Australian brick homestead.

The northerly facing residence has a substantial central living zone with natural light, solid wood heating and modernised kitchen featuring quality St George appliances, dishwasher, walk in pantry and extra large bench space.

Adjoining the kitchen is an open plan living area leading to outside alfresco dining.

There is a separate and formal lounge with views over the garden and study with built in cupboards.

The four bedrooms are all of a spacious, useful size and each has built in robes, the main being a parents’ retreat with a walk in robe and very well appointed ensuite, including a bath.

Equally inviting is the guest bedroom with its own ensuite.

The main bathroom once again is roomy and is central to the third and fourth bedrooms.

Features of this home include a northerly orientation enhancing the energy efficiency, gas ducted central heating, solar hot water, solar system, solid wood heater in the main living and a large open fire place in the formal lounge, timber lined ceilings and with 35 squares under roof this property makes a wonderful lifestyle.

The home is nestled in amongst botanical style gardens, with long established native and exotic trees, fruit and citrus trees, garden beds, and abundant bird life.

The property is enhanced with two lockable sheds 30’ x 19 ½’ and 30’ x 36’, chook house, wood shed and of course the fully protected vegetable garden.

There is ample water storage with 20,000 gallons of tank water and a bore for the garden.

Located only 4.2 km from the township of Leongatha, this property is well worth an inspection

LEONGATHA STH 165 Racecourse Rd Landmark Harcourts Leongatha Glenys Foster 0477 622 297

$685,000

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PAGE 28 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Upset reserve auction, October 22 S

OME time ago, the vendors of this extremely attractive parcel of land had the foresight to undertake a land subdivision development in picturesque Dumbalk.

So now it is time for the vendors to realise the proceeds of this development through the sale of four prime parcels of land.

An unusual feature of this sale is that the lots are to be auctioned using an upset reserve process.

Normally the reserve price at an auction is not disclosed.

In this instance, the reserve price has been disclosed and at this auction, if a bid which is the amount of the upset reserve is made and no further bid is made, the vendors agree to sell the lot for the upset reserve price.

Insight Real Estate is proud to be involved in this special auction.

As auctioneer John O’Connor says, “You can’t be more fair dinkum than to take a property to auction where the reserve price is disclosed before the start of the auction. This will be a real opportunity to purchase a nice parcel of land at a great price.”

All blocks enjoy pleasant rural views. Lots one, two and three, set in peaceful Hanley Court are fully

Up for grabs: from left, Dumbalk’s Ed Hanley and Insight Real Estate auctioneer John O’Connor are prepped for October’s auction in Hanley Court, Dumbalk.

fenced and ready to go with electricity, water and phone available.

Services such as electricity, water and phone are available, but are not connected to lot four on Miller Street.

This is the perfect chance for purchasers to select a block and establish a home in a friendly community which has plenty of facilities and activities on hand and to enjoy the lifestyle a large allotment has to offer.

Rich fertile soils mean that given the size of the lots, plenty of vegetables, fruit trees, berries and gardens could easily be established by keen gardeners.

There’s plenty of room for a pet or two as well.

The upset reserve auction will be held on site at Hanley Court, Dumbalk on Saturday, October 22, at 11am.

Please contact Insight Real Estate’s office for further information.

AUCTION Upset Reserve

DUMBALK

Hanley Court October 22 at 11am on site

Insight Real Estate Leongatha 5662 2220

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 29

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Panoramic views L

IKE a jewel atop a crown, this custom designed home has been perfectly positioned to maximise the panoramic views from all living areas and bedrooms.

Flooded with natural light courtesy of north facing floor to ceiling windows, the open plan living spills naturally out onto the extensive covered front deck.

The galley style kitchen features marble bench tops and a walk in pantry.

With induction cooktop and Bosch appliances, cooking will be a delight for the accomplished and novice alike.

The oversized bedrooms continue the sense of space.

The master bedroom with ensuite is located in one ‘wing’ of the home, as well as a ‘parents retreat’ or potential fourth bedroom.

Two more bedrooms are located in the opposite wing, serviced by their own bathroom.

A separate study and powder room complete this magnificent home.

Generous storage, underfloor heating and a

6kw solar electric system keeps living uncluttered, comfortable and economical.

The north facing land (approx five acres) comprises rich red soil, and has recently been resewn to pasture.

Divided into eight paddocks with water supplied from the Tarwin River and with excellent cattle handling facilities, it is ideally set up for small scale farming.

A 9m x 7m garage/work shed plus a large chook pen are included..

Brilliantly located only a six minute drive from Leongatha on a sealed road, this magnificent lifestyle property is a perfect combination of rural living, panoramic views and a stunning custom built home.

LEONGATHA 334 Mardan Road Alex Scott and Staff Leongatha 5662 0922

$790,000

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PAGE 30 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

STAR Real

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Terrific family home awaits you T

HIS spacious three bedroom, two bathroom family home has been renovated and is waiting for your finishing touches to make it your dream home.

As you walk through the front feature door, to your left is a very large master bedroom/parents retreat with ensuite and excellent sized walk in robe.

The kitchen, family room and dining is all open plan.

It is light and bright with lots of windows and opens out onto a front balcony.

This area is a warm and welcoming space for family dinners or entertaining.

Off the dining area is a sunken lounge and games room, it is big enough to be both.

Also on this level are two extra large bedrooms.

The main bathroom has a freestanding bath, large walk-in shower and double basin.

The stylish laundry is impressive with lots of storage and space.

Out front there is a two car carport and outback

you will discover a studio/office/guest bedroom, a covered in deck area, a separate enclosed entertainment area just waiting to be fitted out and a garage/ workshop with rear lane access.

This home is sure to impress; it has enormous potential, is in a great location and with a few tweaks it will make the perfect family home.

An inspection will not disappoint.

The property is open for inspection times on Saturday, September 10, at 11am to 11.30am, or by inspection t o or o appointment. appo t e t.

AUCTION LEONGATHA

42 Brumley Street Saturday Sep 17 at 11am on site Elders Real Estate Leongatha Jean O’Loughlin 0428 571 083

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“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 31

The Good Life

Your LOCAL guide to Art and Entertainment

Art takes flight RENOWNED artist ti t Emily E il Koenders K d is i holding a special spring art exhibition, Wings, from September 3 to 25, open daily from 11am to 5pm.

Spring is a stunning time at this magnificent hilltop gallery.

The beautiful gardens come alive in this season and the traditional fountains and many varieties of birds are all part of the special experience for visitors Breathtaking panoramic views stretching to Wilsons Promontory wrap around the gallery.

Emily’s professional career had its genesis at the tender age of 14, when she sold her first painting and won an award at a renowned Melbourne exhibition. In the 19 years since, the evidence of her credentials can be found in her being invited to judge art shows, and also being the feature artist on numerous occasions.

She has won a wealth of awards, including the Royal Melbourne Art Exhibition, and Rotary clubs of Alexandra, Bendigo, Box Hill, Chirnside Park and Victor Harbour.

Being granted an art scholarship at the latter exhibition only served to further enhance her status.

Emily’s art has been purchased by the former chairman of the National Gallery of Australia for his private collec-

tion andd some off her have been snappedd up by ti h paintings i ti h b b savvy European buyers.

In her early years, Emily travelled to Europe, and stood in awe at the art works of the great Dutch masters, especially Vincent van Gogh’s, and visited various locations where he had lived and painted during his short, but profoundly influential life.

This trip served to further fuel her passion for the arts, and provided the impetus for a successful career that has spanned nearly two decades.

Little did she realise, that, 12 years later (in 2006), the extraordinary revelation about her late ancestor would come to light, that she is the great, great, great, great niece of the legendary Vincent van Gogh.

This revelation has enhanced the prestige and value of Emily’s beautiful artworks, and although her style is quite different to his, it has proved yet again the old adage that genes don’t lie.

Another parallel with Vincent is her immense love and appreciation of nature. It is well documented he made many field trips to collect reference material for painting.

Emily has spent countless hours in nature, studying the most meticulous details of the intriguing world of ornithology, and is fascinated by every speckle, fleck and splash of colour adorning birdlife.

Emily’s E il ’ works k are refl flective ti off a life lif dedicated d di t d to t the th study of the striking beauty of nature in all its glorious facets.

She has marvelled at the intricate detail in the feathers of a superb fairy wren dancing amongst the grasses, and has stood in awe whilst observing a pair of wedge-tailed eagles riding the thermals overhead at her South Gippsland hilltop property.

She has also been deeply moved by personal encounters with some big cats, visiting a family of cheetahs, and stroking and bottle-feeding an adolescent Sumatran tiger.

Emily’s style showcases her wonderful capacity to utilise light and form to create unique effects, with her works being executed in several mediums ranging from gouache, and oils, to pencil and pastel.

She seeks to elicit an emotional response from the viewer, by the use of colour, atmosphere, behaviour, mood and the freshness of ideas.

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, from the tiniest of birds to the largest of land animals.

Emily Koenders Art Gallery is at 230 Ruby-Fairbank Road, Fairbank, located 10 minutes north of Leongatha.

Please feel free to phone with any queries to 0421 339 575.

Come and enjoy: artist Emily Koenders invites visitors to her latest exhibition, Wings, at her Fairbank gallery this September.

Teens to star in school spectacular TWO South Gippsland students will appear in the Victorian State School Spectacular.

Wonthaggi Secondary College’s (WSC) Nick Lawson will take centre stage as a principal vocalist and Louis Wheeler, a Year 12 student at South Gippsland Secondary College, is an audio assistant for the event.

Nick joins the list of talented singers who have represented WSC as a principal vocalist – including Jayde Gray, Mitchell Sanders and Cassi de Lacy-Vawdon.

This year the show is entitled The Elements. The theme is combined with a concoction of pop and stage magic.

A lot of hard work and dedication has gone into being a principal vocalist, including seven hour rehearsals

in Melbourne on Saturdays and Sundays for most of the year.

“It has been a great experience to work with professionals. My family has been very supportive during the rehearsals,” Nick said.

Many people may recognise Nick from his first starring role in Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s (WTG) Oliver in 2010. He also played Archie in WTG’s production 13 and had the lead role in Peter Pan at WSC. “I used to do a bit of singing at home but after Oliver I really got into music and decided to give it a go. I have lessons with Kirk (Skinner) and I was encouraged by my family to be in the spectacular,” he said The spectacular has taught Nick about stage presence, vocal techniques, and dance skills.

“I look forward to being on the massive stage. It’s a

Young writer to explore journey at Literary Festival THE discipline of writing has always come easily for Tayla Kershaw, Star journalist and presenter at this October’s Coal Creek Literary Festival.

The novel follows a 17 year old girl’s quest for redemption after a mistake she makes drives a wedge between the people in her village.

The Harry Potter books were a big influence on her, as was the John Marsden When the War Began series.

The festival is on Sunday, October 9 “One of the comments I have refrom 10am. ceived from people who have read my Still in her early twenties, Tayla has book was that I had very strong female already had one book, a young adult fancharacters in it,” Tayla said. tasy published, with its sequel to follow “The hero, the villain, the leader of this year. the army are all females, but I had a lot of “It’s always just something that’s male characters to back them up.” come naturally,” Tayla said about the Tayla started submitting the manudiscipline of writing. script to her first novel in 2012, and after “When I was eight I was really ena few knock backs was accepted by Satacouraged by teachers in primary school,” Fantasy writer: author lyte Publishing, a South Gippsland based adding she always had a note book with and journalist Tayla publisher. her and spent her lunchtimes at school Between the manuscript being submitKershaw brings female writing. ted and the final product there were quite characters to the fore in Growing up on a dairy farm at Glen a few changes made, the main one being Alvie and having cousins who lived next her fantasy novel. its length. door gave Tayla plenty of space to roam “It was a bit short. My publisher gave me six months when she was growing up. to write a bit more, to expand on things, and then he “My inspiration has always come from living on a went through it and edited it himself,” Tayla said. farm and the scenery it offers and also living so close Her editor and publisher is Stephen Ormsby. to coastal areas”, Tayla said. “Naturally, I wanted to be “I had a sellout at my launch. That was in 2014 at a fantasy writer”. the Wonthaggi Library. I began writing Alliance when It was a motor bike ride with her brother and the I was 17 and finished it a few months after turning 18,” discovery of a cow’s skeleton in the back paddock of Tayla said. the farm that allowed her to gel ideas she’d already had Tayla is just one of numerous interesting presenters about the characters depicted in Alliance. at this year’s Coal Creek Literary Festival.

Calling all festival writers WRITERS are being urged to enter competitions being held as part of the Coal Creek Literary Festival.

The Bert van Bedaf Memorial Award offers a $500 prize and a trophy for the winning short story of 500 words.

The Open Poetry Prize carries a $200 prize for a

poem in free or rhyming verse of no more than 20 lines.

Both prizes are open to all ages and entries closed Monday, October 3.

Entry forms can be found on the Literary Festival website: www.coalcreekliteraryfestival.com Entry fees are $15 for the Bert van Bedaf Memorial Award and $10 for the Open Poetry Prize.

lot different to being in a stage show,” he said.

“I’ve enjoyed working with people from all over Victoria who have lots of different talents. I haven’t done a lot of dancing before and learning how to work the camera is a different experience but it has been very exciting.”

This is Louis’ second spectacular.

“I have been able to apply the things I have learnt into my own music,” he said.

“I produce and record my own music so everything I’ve learned has been incredibly valuable.”

Louis has been interested in music since he was nine.

“Last year was my first contact with the industry and it’s helped me further my knowledge. It’s great to see how things happen in the outside world,” he said.

“This is the sort of opportunity that needs to be pushed and talked about more because it is absolutely fantastic to be involved.”

Louis would like to pursue his talent by going to the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) to study interactive composition.

Being involved in the spectacular has helped him improve the music he records and produces, which he will later present to VCA in a portfolio.

The spectacular will be held before an audience of 10,000 on September 10 at Hisense Arena, Melbourne.

It will also be televised on Channel 7 on a date to be confirmed.

Superstar: Wonthaggi Secondary College’s Nick Lawson was selected to be a principal vocalist in the Victorian State School Spectacular on September 10 at Hisense Arena in Melbourne.

Audio assistant: South Gippsland Secondary College Year 12 student Louis Wheeler in his element during a Victorian State School Spectacular rehearsal.

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 33

Helping keep history alive BASS MLA MP Brian Paynter stepped up to the decks of the Ripple vessel in Inverloch and presented the Inverloch Historical Society with a substantial contribution towards the group’s cause recently.

The society’s ancient photos, documents, and memorabilia relating to Inverloch are deteriorating in cold dark sheds and the society is desperately seeking a permanent home.

Earlier in the year, a project funded by the Bass Coast Shire Council helped to digitally preserve 36 of the society’s photos.

Mr Paynter presented new funding of $7245

from the Public Records Office of Victoria to kick start a much more ambitious project to record and catalogue the entire collection for posterity.

The grant will enable the purchase of a computer, scanner and camera to digitally record photos, documents, and items of historic significance to Inverloch and the surrounding district.

Recording past: Bass MLA Brian Paynter (middle) presents funding to Inverloch Historical Society patron Eulalie Brewster, joined by president John Hutchinson and the society’s youngest member Sarah Paterson, 2.

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 35

Farming In Day out: members of the South Gippsland Jersey Club held a heifer tour around Yarram in May. Here the club checks out the Mumford jersey herd.

Jersey breeders ready for spring THE South Gippsland Jersey Club held its annual general meeting at the Leongatha RSL recently.

The highlight of the night was Colin Dowel from Inverell Jerseys and his presentation on his recent tour of farms and factories in China with Burra Foods and members of Dairy Australia.

The club thanked all outgoing positions, in particular Aaron Thomas who had been president for three years and is now taking on a role with the UDV. A new committee was elected, including Darien Matthews as president, Callum Moscript as senior vice president, Brian Launder as junior vice president, and Cheryl and Alan Launder as secretary.

Wayne Kuhne is treasurer and Tanya Privitera is public relations officer.

“Our most successful event for the year is always our on farm challenge. This is where a judge travels to each farm and judges the cows in their working clothes,” Ms Privitera said.

“The points are tallied and winners announced at a presentation evening.

From there, the age champions go on to compete in the Great Southern Challenge judged across four states against

the best cows in their respective ages.”

Last year the jersey club had 188 cows entered from 22 herds.

“This year our dates have been set, judging will take place October 24, 25 and 26,” Ms Privitera said.

“We are honoured to have two judges from New Zealand for our on farm challenge, Lloyd Wilson from Denson Dale Jerseys and Tony Luckin from Leithlea Jerseys.

“The presentation evening will be October 27 at the Meeniyan football rooms.”

In May, the club hosted its first heifer tour around the Yarram area.

“Thanks to the Mumford family, Kelvin Trotman, Warren Lace and Trent Crawford for taking time out of their busy schedules to get some heifers out for us to all admire,” Ms Privitera said.

“It was also the day the well publicised #dairyincrisis was brought to our attention so we all had some lengthy discussions about the dire situation.

“This heifer tour will be an annual event as it was so popular.”

The club welcomes any new members. Contact Ms Privitera at tanya_ zelda@hotmail.com if you would like to know more.

Farmers focus on improving performance TIM and Grit Cashin have only one regret about their time as Focus Farmers – they wish it could have gone on longer.

The Leongatha South couple has been under the microscope for two years, with their farm business scrutinised publicly and by a support group of local farmers and service providers.

The Cashin Focus Farm, which was funded by GippsDairy and Dairy Australia using dairy service levy funds, held its final field day recently.

Tim said having a group of quality dairy farmers looking closely at their business was challenging, but had paid dividends.

The biggest change the Cashins made during the two years was starting to improve the genetics of their herd.

“I think they put it pretty well, that we have a pretty good herd but it’s just five years behind the really good herds now in terms of genetics and the way they are built,” Tim said.

Focus Farm facilitator Matt Harms has enjoyed watching Tim and Grit develop the farm business.

“What we have seen is Tim and Grit understand their business and understand which direction to take their business, particularly in terms of stocking rate, production system, grain feeding levels, young stock numbers and young stock management,” he said.

Matt said hump and hollow work that was started before the Focus Farm period had allowed Tim and Grit to change the way they approach farm management.

“That has turned that farm from being one of the wettest in the area into being a lot more manageable, which has allowed them to manage pasture better and has allowed their stocking rate to be managed much more easily,” he said.

GippsDairy extension coordinator Tony Platt said the Cashin Focus Farm was a good example of what can be achieved through a strong support group and a receptive farm family.

“I think the strong interest we have had in this Focus Farm reflects the potential people see for Tim and Grit’s business and the satisfaction in helping them make large strides forward,” he said.

“GippsDairy would like to thank Tim and Grit for being such an open and giving couple during the whole FoOpen house: Tim and Grit Cashin have cus Farm experience.”

Field days for the next developed their dairy business during round of Focus Farms will be their two years as Focus Farmers. announced shortly.

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Farming Insight

Leaking tanks not a problem LEAKING water tanks are time “So far it has been ideal. There are consuming and costly, but can no signs of any problems or issues. be easily rectified by the team Hopefully the Bass Coast Waterproofat Bass Coast Waterproofing, without having to replace the tank.

The Bass Coast Waterproofing protective coating products are a range of sprayed-on polyurethane/polyurea elastomers that provide a flexible bond to metals, wood, concrete and fibreglass.

The coating can be applied in thickness from 1mm to over 50mm and can stretch to accommodate expansion and contraction of the substrate without adhesion loss.

It is dry to the touch within 10 seconds, providing full and unrestricted use in less than 24 hours.

Michael Littlejohn from Mirboo has had three concrete tanks treated by Dick Pendlebury from Bass Coast Waterproofing and could not be happier with the result.

“I read about the company in the paper and thought it sounded like a good solution to our leaking concrete tanks,” he said.

“We had two done about four years ago, which were both older, corrugated concrete tanks. They both had leaks, which shortens their life.”

Mr Littlejohn had been treating the leaks himself, but it was not a long term answer and was costing him time and money.

mer, Mr Littlejohn decided it was the bottom.

“Ever since it was built, the tank time to get the home tank treated as well, as it was losing water through had issues. Over the years, there has been a lot of time spent on it,” he said.

“Hopefully now that will stop and it lasts another 50 years.”

Mr Littlejohn said while the treatment comes at a cost, when spread out of over the lifetime of the treatment, 50 years or more, it becomes quite cheap.

“It is much cheaper than a new tank and it also takes no time. Removing an old concrete tank can be time consuming and hard to do,” he said.

“Concrete tanks are also fireproof unlike plastic ones, so it was another good reason not to get rid of it.”

Mr Littlejohn said the process from start to finish was straightforward and fast.

“We just had to show Dick the tank, have a chat and then let him go. He answered all of our questions,” he said.

“First they clean the tank out, then spray it with a coating that bonds with the concrete, which is followed by the polyurethane layer.

“All up, it took less than a week.”

Mr Littlejohn was also complimentary of Dick himself, and said he is a bit of a character with a high level of integrity.

“It makes you comfortable about All sealed: Michael Littlejohn from Mirboo has had several leaking tanks treated by Dick Pendlebury and Bass working with him,” he said.

Coast Waterproofing and is happy he is no longer losing any water. ing treatment has been a final solution,” he said.

Earlier this year, after a dry sum-

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 37

Farming Insight

Established 1944

SPRING

ON PROPERTY SALE 1545 Princes Hwy, Flynn Friday, 23rd September 2016

@ 2pm

Researching: from left, Denise Seaton and Alexandra Ryan from Nar Nar Goon were at the VLE Leongatha store sale last Thursday, to see the quality of the Friesian steers in the market and how they were selling.

• VLE Leongatha

Prices rise for best steers THERE were approximately 1270 export and 200 young cattle penned representing an increase of 290 head week on week.

The usual buying group was present but not all operating in a softer market in most places.

Quality was mixed with some cattle starting to show a little more finish.

Trade cattle sold from firm to a few cents easier. The best drafts in the grown steers improved 7c while the secondary lines and bullocks eased 5c to 8c/kg.

Heavy weight grown heifers showing good finish held firm. Heavy weight crossbred manufacturing steers sold slightly easier.

Heavy weight dairy cows held firm while all other grades of cows eased 5c to 15c/kg. Heavy weight bulls sold to firm demand.

A sprinkling of heavy weight vealers suited to butchers reached a top of 390c/kg. A couple of yearling trade steers made between 370c and 380c/kg. Yearling heifers to the trade sold between 328c and 364c/kg.

Grown steers made from 333c to 376c/kg. Bullocks sold from 290c to 342c/kg. Well finished heavy weight grown heifers made between 315c and 349c/kg. Heavy weight crossbred manufacturing steers sold between 290c and 342c/kg.

Most light and medium weight cows made from 180c to 240c/kg. Heavy weight cows sold mostly from 239c to 282c/kg. Heavy weight bulls made between 274c and 316c/kg.

The next sale draw - September 7: 1. Elders, 2.

SEJ, 3. Rodwells, 4. Landmark, 5. Phelan & Henderson & Co, 6. Alex Scott & Staff.

Prime Sale - Wednesday, August 31

BULLOCKS 16 C.T. Ferguson, Longford 13 Pettitt Pty Ltd, Koorooman 11 M. Baryczka, Airly 12 G. & T. Matthews, Dumbalk 6 B.P. Dilger, Jeetho West 11 J. & A. Schellekens, Wonthaggi STEERS 3 A. Stuart Invest. P/L, Stacey’s Bridge 1 M. Cavill, Hazelwood North 2 G.T. Cummaudo, Mirboo North 1 K.G. & M.A. Dixon and

567.8kg 593.8kg 660.0kg 618.3kg 785.0kg 799.5kg

376.2 370.6 366.0 363.6 362.6 360.6

$2136.11 $2200.79 $2415.60 $2248.26 $2846.41 $2883.16

366.7kg 380.0 $1393.33 345.0kg 379.6 $1309.62 347.5kg 378.6 $1315.64

G.T. & A.N. Barlow, Yarram 405.0kg 370.0 $1498.50 1 Southgate Optical P/L, Boolarra 340.0kg 360.0 $1224.00 2 R. & T. Gamlin, Toora 237.5kg 355.0 $843.13 HEIFERS 1 W.R. & L.M. Heyne, Maffra 365.0kg 390.0 $1423.50 1 G.T. Cummaudo, Mirboo North 365.0kg 380.0 $1387.00 1 J. & M. Bravington 350.0kg 376.6 $1318.10 1 W.R. & L.M. Heyne, Maffra 335.0kg 376.6 $1261.61 1 D.M. Phelan, Binginwarri 315.0kg 373.6 $1176.84 1 S. & D. Clark, San Remo 315.0kg 370.6 $1167.39 COWS 1 J. & M. Bravington 565.0kg 310.0 $1751.50 5 J.M. McFee, Cowes 615.0kg 282.0 $1734.30 1 R. & E. Notting, Yinnar 600.0kg 280.0 $1680.00 1 D.W. & M.L. Taylor, Mirboo North 730.0kg 277.6 $2026.48 1 G.S. & J. Tuckett, Woodside 615.0kg 270.0 $1660.50 1 R. & D. Clench, Yarram 745.0kg 270.0 $2011.50 BULLS 1 R. & D. Clench, Yarram 1175.0kg 356.0 $4183.00 1 D.M. & L.S. Minogue, Nerrena 920.0kg 314.6 $2894.32 1 Harris Farm, Dumbalk North 915.0kg 309.6 $2832.84 1 G. & K. Cooper, Woodleigh Vale 970.0kg 304.6 $2954.62 1 A.C. & L.A. Mitchell, Leongatha 1035.0kg 298.6 $3090.51 1 M. Selling, Sale 830.0kg 297.2 $2466.76

Store sale market Thursday, September 1

Steers: J.R. Crombe, Perry Bridge, 1 x $1970; Coonong P/L, Urana, 15 x $1870; A. & P. Brown, Wattle Bank, 16 x $1810; J. & C. Triantafyllou, Woodside, 1 x $1780; J. Anderton, Anderson, 2 x $1710; M. Reynolds, Mardan, 6 x $1710.

Heifers: D.J. & K.M. Kuch, Darriman, 18 x $1420; Katelea Past, Toora, 1 x $1400; J.R. Crombe, Perry Bridge, 12 x $1360; G.T. Cummaudo, Mirboo North, 2 x $1300; Zep Angus, Tanjil South, 14 x $1290; N. & R. Reynolds, Tarra Valley, 4 x $1210.

Cows: M.F. Wrench, Boolarra South, 1 x $1560; Jackson Matthew, Hallston, 10 x $1490; G.W. Pratt, Bena, 1 x $1050; M.F. Wrench, Boolarra South, 1 x $800.

Cows and calves: G. & L. Jennings, Korumburra, 1 x $1400; R.M. & J.M. Auchterlonie, Dumbalk, 1 x $1310; M.J. & L.M. Schwennesen, Poowong, 1 x $1260; G.W. Pratt, Bena, 1 x $1050; P. Francis, Narracan, 3 x $850; Brooke Verway-Mitchell, Corinalla, 2 x $585.

Tips for the dairy season By Michele Joliffe, Agriculture Victoria

AS WE start the new financial year, these 10 tips are well worth keeping in mind to help tackle the season ahead in Gippsland.

1. Don’t fly blind.

If you haven’t done so, get your financial records up to date. This will give you a clear understanding of what you have to deal with. Update them monthly so that as things change, you can keep track of how new input and milk prices will affect your bottom line.

Also consider using a trusted advisor to help assess your business and develop a plan. The Taking Stock program is a great way to do this and is available to all farmers as a free service through GippsDairy.

2. Razor gang.

Examine every cost for any ‘fat’ that can be trimmed. However, don’t let cash flow alone determine important management decisions such as amounts of bought-in feed. Short term benefits can be quickly lost if cows are underfed, especially in early lactation. Poor ration balance can also lead to significant animal health problems.

3. Talk to debtors.

Keep in contact with any lenders and keep trade debtors informed of your plans to pay any outstanding bills. Often loans can be renegotiated and bills paid over a few months if necessary.

4. Maximise your muck.

Plan to use your dairy effluent this year to either extend your spring pasture growth or fire up a summer crop. The manure needs to be used before next winter anyway, so think through options early to grow more feed or reduce fertiliser costs.

5. Get in the helicopter.

Assess the level of risk in your business. These challenging times can often provide useful motivation to look at the bigger picture - is the business still helping you achieve your personal and financial goals?

6. You’re not alone.

Keep up your contacts with sporting, school, community, discussion groups and other social groups. Chances are everyone is going through the same challenges and a chat with others can help to reduce the feeling that you are going it alone. Be sure to look after you family, friends and neighbours.

7. In excess for spring.

Plan to grow as much forage as possible over spring to reduce cash feed costs next year. Remember, underfeeding cows by locking up more than you need will cost your business more in the long run.

Kevin Morgan: 0419 917 510 Ray Attwell: 0428 836 136 Neville Kelly: 0417 359 637

Graeme and Joy Stuckey: 0429 992 683 Email: leawood@wideband.net.au

F09883

Good look: Bev Littlejohn from Mirboo North was at last Thursday’s store sale at VLE Leongatha on behalf of her employers, Angus cattle breeders Kevin and Ros Battersby from Wild Dog Valley. Bev said some of their bulls’ progeny were being sold and the sale was a chance to see how they had grown.

32 Bulls 16 -18 mths 30 Females with Spring Calves

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Farming Insight Farmers to swap hills for the bay

By Stuart Biggins IT wasn’t the best of spring days for a clearing sale but the season was only two days old. All the same, Geoff Jennings said, “I can’t believe how many people are here.”

Geoff and his wife Linda are selling their scenically located farm near the Korumburra Golf Club and moving to Indented Head on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Their son and his young family live in nearby Geelong and while failing health has contributed to the lifestyle change, he said, “I have a few skills so I’ll get something and Linda is a teacher.”

A Hawthorn supporter, Mr Jennings said the media in Geelong don’t give up on The Cats all year, even in the middle of winter.

“It will be on!” he said.

Between jobs: fencing contractor Jarrod Dubignon and his offsider Sam Perks were at Landmark’s clearing sale for the property of Geoff and Linda Jennings on Kelly and Mosses Road, Korumburra on Friday “for a quick look.”

Lot number: from left, Tim Beveridge from Glen Alvie with Nicholas and Shane Ferrone from Jeetho. A hobby farmer, Mr Beveridge had his eye on a quad bike. Shane Ferrone, who is retired, had nothing specific in mind.

“Whatever’s going,” he said as the pair sheltered from the drizzle during Landmark’s clearing sale for the property of Geoff and Linda Jennings on Kelly and Mosses Road, Korumburra on Friday.

Left, On the move: Geoff Jennings (pictured) and his wife Linda are moving to Indented Head on the Bellarine Peninsula where the hills might not be quite as big and rounded, but the grass is often as green and the bay is wide and blue.

Jackson wins MG vote HAZEL Park dairy farmer Kelvin Jackson has been elected to the board of Murray Goulburn after a ballot of Gippsland farmers.

He will be formally nominated to the board at Murray Goulburn’s annual general meeting on October 28.

Mr Jackson and Le-

ongatha farmer Bernhard Lubitz were the South Gippsland candidates vying for the role.

“I had eight years with both Bonlac and the Bonlac Supply Company and nine years at Dairy Australia. I have developed a tremendous insight and knowledge of the workings of our industry and Murray Goulburn,” he told The Star recently.

His nomination

comes as MG chairman Phil Tracy of Yanakie said the company would review its Milk Supply Support Package, after farmers indicated they may leave the company because the arrangement requires farmers to pay back money to Murray Goulburn.

“The board and

management are therefore actively reviewing all options with a view to providing a better solution to support suppliers in the long term interests of suppliers and MG,” Mr Tracy wrote in a letter to farmers.

“The board will proceed with this review in a timely manner and ex-

pects to be in a position to communicate further with suppliers by the end of October 2016.”

Vote winner: Kelvin Jackson of Hazel Park is the latest Gippslander to join the board of dairy cooperative Murray Goulburn.

Men’s health matters LEONGATHA’S Long Street Family Medicine is striving to deliver better health outcomes for local men.

Free men’s health checks will be offered at the VLE Leongatha Saleyards on Thursday, September 15, with a registered nurse.

Concerns about blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels and stress can be addressed on the day.

Health professionals find farmers a notoriously difficult group to screen, as they are reluctant or time poor to visit a health service regularly.

“We believe strongly that our community requires on site delivery to facilitate access for rural men to help educate and identify potentially preventable hospitalisations,” Long Street Family Medicine manager Katrina Benson said.

On September 15, qualified registered nurses will provide free health checkups at the saleyard.

Long Street Family Medicine hope this program will continue on a regular basis.

On the same day, Long Street Family Medicine will be running a Q Fever clinic as a separate entity.

The Long Street Family Medicine staff all have their own farming backgrounds and therefore have knowledge about how to treat farmers through their own experiences.

Expert advice: from left, Dr Fred Edwards, nurse Corinne Kelly and manager Katrina Benson from Long Street Family Medicine will be on site at the VLE Leongatha Saleyards on September 15 to give health checkups and Q Fever vaccinations. They all have backgrounds in farming, have had vaccinations themselves, and will be able to share their experience with farmers on the day.

Dr Fred Edwards and Ms Benson are both beef farmers and nurse Corinne Kelly is a dairy farmer. All three have had Q Fever vaccinations and understand the concerns farmers often deal with.

People can come along and have a screening for Q Fever with the intent for vaccinations, following an outbreak in a Melbourne abattoir.

Farmers at high risk of Q Fever usually work with cattle, sheep and goats, but other ani-

mals such as cats, dogs and wildlife may be infected.

Untreated Q Fever can lead to severe long term chronic illness and further health risks such as inflammation of the heart, persistent infections in the liver, brain and bones, and debilitating fatigue.

A vaccination can give you lifelong immunity.

Unfortunately, these vaccines aren’t free but people are encouraged to call the clinic for further information.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 39

public notice

public notice

BURGE FAMILY REUNION Saturday September 24 11am VICTORY PARK TRARALGON (near rotunda) BYO food, drink and chair Bring any relevant photos

situations vacant

situations vacant

BUSHLAND TEAM MEMBER

POSITION WITH ENVIROGAIN For details go to: http://nrmjobs.com.au/jobs/9770042Bushland-Team-Member

public notice

public notice

RSVP September 10 Phone Julie 07 4945 1288

Notice of Special Board Meeting A Special Meeting of the West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation Board will be held on Friday 16 September at 5.00pm pursuant to Section 89(2) and 89(4) of the Local Government Act 1989 for the sole purpose of discussing personnel matters.

This Special Meeting will be closed to the public, and will be held at the Regional Support Centre, 65 Victoria St, Warragul.

TENDERS Frozen & Prepared Meals Tenders are invited for the supply of frozen & prepared meals to Gippsland Southern Health Service. Contract period for one year from 24th October 2016 to 22nd October 2017.

Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Tenders are invited for the supply of fresh fruit & vegetables to Gippsland Southern Health Service. Contract period for one year from 24th October 2016 to 22nd October 2017.

Tender specifications can be obtained by emailing your interest to peter.vanhamond@gshs.com.au All tenders must be marked either “Tender – Frozen & Prepared Meals” or “Tender – Fresh Fruit & Vegetables” and forwarded by email to tender.submission@gshs.com.au or via mail to: Mr Mark Johnson Chief Executive Officer Gippsland Southern Health Service Private Bag 13 LEONGATHA VIC 3953 Tenders are to be submitted no later than 5pm Friday 23rd September 2016.

Enrolment applications open 1st June 2016.

Enrol online at www.kindercluster.ymca.org.au information.

Email ykcm.enrolments@ymca.org.au or call 5329 2810 for more

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES WHO HAVE A CHILD ELIGIBLE TO ATTEND KINDERGARTEN OR THREE YEAR OLD KINDER IN 2017 We are still taking enrolments for these kindergartens: Inverloch & District Preschool - (03) 5674 1282 Drysdale St Wonthaggi Kindergarten - (03) 5672 1547 White Road Wonthaggi Kindergarten (Wonthaggi North Kindergarten) - (03) 5672 3292 Enrolments opened on Wednesday 1st June 2016 however we are still taking enrolments.

See website for more information regarding enrolment timeline and critical dates.

situations vacant

FARM HAND REQUIRED For modernised 50 STAND ROTARY Duties will include milking, tractor driving and feeding cows.

Current driver’s licence is a must.

situations vacant

MILKER WANTED MONDAY - FRIDAY am and pm Must be reliable and honest Milking 260 cows in modern dairy Contact Hilco 0417 341 878

Call Mick 0417 821 803

FULL TIME COOK FOR BUSY RESTAURANT / TAKEAWAY

INCLUDES DAYS AND EVENINGS Experience required in Asian cuisine and Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery.

Apply to: Raymond Ph. 0429 938 004, Leongatha Noodles Email: gohweichuan@y7mail.com

Small Business Financial Counsellor The Rural Financial Counselling Service in Gippsland has been provided with funds to employ a small business financial counsellor (SBFC) to assist small businesses experiencing financial difficulty as a result of the dairy industry downturn.

The SBFC will provide a free, confidential and independent service to eligible small businesses by analysing their financial circumstances, identifying their financial and business options then assisting them to implement an agreed improvement plan.

Skills and Qualifications • Diploma of Community Services (Financial Counselling) OR a relevant business, commerce or counselling qualification (or combination).

• Current unrestricted driver’s licence.

• Conversant with a range of small business enterprises that exist in the region.

Employment Conditions • The position is full time and preferably based in West, South or Central Gippsland.

• Salary up to $70,000 depending on qualifications and experience, plus superannuation.

Fringe benefit salary package benefits also negotiable.

• At this stage, RFCSV-G is offering a twelve month Employment Agreement.

Information, key responsibilities and selection criteria are available from the Executive Officer, Peter Jennings; phone 0428 230 444 OR email eorfcsvg@bigpond.com Applications close Sunday 11th September 2016.

Supported by the Victorian Government.

meetings

meetings

Stony Creek Racing Club Inc.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Annual General Meeting of the Club will be convened on Tuesday 4 October, 2016 at Meeniyan Hotel, 6.30pm for 7pm AGM start, and guest speaker Lisa Coffey of Racing Victoria Stay afterwards for a 2 course dinner, set meal, $30 per head.

Members and non-members welcome; RSVP to Paul O’Sullivan 0429 933 240 or osulliva@dcsi.net.au

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

situations vacant

situations vacant

situations vacant

DAIRY FARM POSITIONS FULL TIME / PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE ON 500 COW DAIRY FARM IN SOUTH GIPPSLAND Farm is well set up with good facilities.

A couple would be well suited to positions.

Applicants need to be honest, reliable and selfmotivated, with good communication skills and a positive attitude. Must be willing to work in a team. Experience in dairy farming preferred.

Must have current driver’s licence.

House available on the property.

FOR FURTHER INFO PHONE 0419 388 877

CARER SUPPORT WORKER Youth Services - Leongatha PART TIME - Fixed term

The Home Based Care Program, SalvoCare Eastern is a specialized team providing high quality service delivery for children and young people aged 0-18 years placed in Out of Home Care in the Inner Gippsland Region. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Carer Support Worker to be responsible for providing direct support and supervision to accredited foster caregivers.

For further information and to apply please visit www.sarmy.org.au/divisions/evd.

Ongoing, Fixed-Term & Casual roles (Job Ref # AC0902) Contact: Vivian Carroll, Allied Health Manager PH: 5667 2701 or vivian.carroll@gshs.com.au

Casual Ward Clerk (Job Ref # ND0801) Contact: Jill Davies PH: 5667 5668 or jill.davies@gshs.com.au Full details, including the position descriptions are available at www.gshs.com.au.

Email applications, quoting relevant reference number to jobs@gshs.com.au no later than Friday 16th September 2016.

We are seeking an (Marine training preferred but not essential)

CARAVAN PARK CARETAKER Permanent Full Time position

We require an experienced Park Caretaker to reside on site to maintain and supervise the daily Operations and Reception at the Foreshore Caravan Park. You will require strong communication skills to liaise with patrons, general public, contractors and other staff members whilst displaying a strong focus on customer service.

This is a hands on position that requires the successful person to work a roster including weekends and will be required to work at our other caravan park in San Remo.

All interested parties please email bookings@ visitsanremo.com.au for a copy of the position description.

All applicants must submit a resumé and cover letter addressing the selection criteria outlined in the position description.

All applicants must apply to: The Manager via email to bookings@visitsanremo.com.au

We are looking for an enthusiastic, well presented and positive person with great initiative who enjoys working with children.

6.30am-3.00pm Mon-Fri, no split shifts, no nights, no weekends.

Food Handling Certificate, Working with Children Check, Police check and references are essential.

Qualifications would be beneficial.

Activity Leader/ Surf Instructor Do you love the outdoors and working with children?

We have a brand new position available for an energetic and happy person with a ‘can do’ attitude.

Mon-Fri, no split shifts, no nights, no weekends.

Working with Children Check, Police check and references are essential. Qualifications such as Cert 3 in Outdoor Rec or equivalent, Bronze medallion or surf instructor quals would be highly beneficial.

Email your resume to: The Manager: Nick Traill pete@waratahbeachcamp.com.au Or phone: 5684 1435

Shire Council

Bass Coast Health is seeking applications for a Registered Nurse to work in our Continence Service team one day per week.

To be eligible for this role you will need to have: • Experience in continence assessment, management and promotion across all age groups • Excellent clinical assessment and care planning skills • Understanding and implementation of person-centred care approach for service delivery • Well-developed verbal and written communication and presentation skills • Demonstrated ability to work effectively autonomously, and as part of a team • Demonstrated ability to liaise with a range of service providers • Strong interpersonal, analytical and problem solving skills For further information or to obtain a Position Description, please contact Jennifer Brown on 5671 3135 or email to Jennifer.Brown@ basscoasthealth.org.au Applications, including a cover letter adressing the key selceiton criteria and 2 professional referrees should be addressed to: Paul Greenhalgh, Executive Director Primary & Community Care and forwarded to Jennifer.

Brown@basscoasthealth.org.au Applications Close 5pm on Monday 12 September 2016

We are a well-known established Marine Sales and Service Outlet situated on the Bass Coast at Inverloch.

Our Service department offers an extensive range of services including: Full boat fit outs, trailer repairs, Outboard ,stern drive and Water Vehicle servicing and repairs.

We are looking for a reliable motivated person to join our team .

A current Driver’s Licence is essential.

If you believe you have the right skills and attitude for this role please apply.

Direct all enquires to Shane, sales@inverlochmarine.com.au

CASUAL CUSTOMER SERVICE OFFICER $23.31 PER HOUR

South Gippsland

Permanent Part-Time Position - 0.21 EFT

situations vacant

Experienced Motor Mechanic

Chef/Cook

Physiotherapist Grade 2

situations vacant

Wastewater Compliance Officer Temporary Full Time - 12 months

South Gippsland SPLASH is seeking a fun, energetic and customer driven person to join our friendly Customer Service team, on a casual basis. Experience is an asset, but training will be provided. Availability across a 7-day roster and the school holiday periods is essential.

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to siham.machler@ymca.org.au APPLICATIONS CLOSE 18TH SEPTEMBER For the position description and careers at the Y, visit victoria.ymca.org.au/caree rs

Are you a

Sales Professional Do you want a career where you make the difference?

Do you believe in equality for everyone?

As a sales professional you will build strong business relationships and be happy representing people with a disability.

Work Solutions Gippsland is an employment agency assisting people with disabilities or barriers to employment become valued employees in the mainstream workforce.

In this role you will be responsible for all areas of employer engagement, marketing, job creation and the promotion of Work Solutions Gippsland within the Leongatha Business community.

For a 5 minute telephone discussion about this role call Daryl on 5173 1600.

$85,766 total salary package Fortnightly rostered day off available Enquiries to: Tim Brown, Coordinator Environmental Health on (03) 5662-9200.

Systems Administration Officer Children & Family Services Ongoing Part Time – between 19-30 hours per week Band 4 position - $28.93 per hour Supporting a highly professional, multi-functional team Enquiries to: Sally Baker, Coordinator Children & Family Services on (03) 5662 9200.

All Applications close Thursday 15 September 2016 at 5pm.

Please refer to our website for a detailed position description and application details.

www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au

for sale

for sale

FIREWOOD - local messmate/stringy bark, cut/split, delivery available. 2 cubic metres $200, 4 cubic metres $400, 6 cubic metres $600, 10 cubic metres $900. Ph: 0437-176187.

CHAINSAWS

FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408980-711, A/H 56625175.

We stock the largest range of chainsaws in South Gippsland, including - Stihl, McCulloch and Husqvarna

HAY for sale. Top quality vetch oaten straw.

Feed test available.

For delivered price ring Greg 0429-822544.

HAY for sale: Pea hay and lucerne hay.

Expressions of interest in new season vetch hay. Contact Joe 0429138748.

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.

from $199

Professional repairs and services to all makes of chainsaws.

We also have a large range of secondhand chainsaws available.

MOTORCYCLES & POWER EQUIPMENT

38870

situations vacant

Cnr Allison & South Gippsland Hwy, LEONGATHA Ph: 5662 2028 L.M.C.T. 2714

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

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

auctions

auctions

wanted to buy

TM TM

AUCTION CLEARING SALE SUNDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 11.00AM 26 EXCHANGE DRIVE, PAKENHAM (Melways Ref: 323, G2) 3 Aluminium Clad On Site Office Buildings With Toilet Facilities, Range Poly Pipe Fittings, Ablution System, Gardina Hoses, Sprinklers, Garden Tools, Tarnow TUJ4810 Lathe, Bridgeport Mill, Holmatro Cable Cutter, Hero Grey Water Systems, Stihl Chain Saws, Forklift Drum Rotator, Deep Cycle Batteries, Isuzu Diesel Motor, Steel Stock Racks, Excavation Bucket, Loading Ramps, 2 Sphere 2.5 Washing Machines, 3 Swift Oven Grill & Cooktop, Cordless & Electrical Hand Tools, Ladders, Plasma Cutter, Spectra Physics HV301 Laser Level, Portable 6KVA Generator, Aurora Inverter, Hard Ware Range, Trailer Spare, Collectables, Gates, Trolley, Stainless Steel Troughs, Tow Bars, Bolts STEEL STOCK: Galvanised Iron Perlins, Plate, 50mm Pipe, RSJ Angle Rod, Reo Mesh, Channel Hollow Sections, Aluminium Chequer Flats MOTOR VEHICLES TO BE OFFERED AT 1:00PM: 2010 Isuzu NPR200 Crane Truck, Toyota Landcruiser GXL Wagon, Alto 576-500 LPG Street Sweeper, 1995 Volvo 850SE Wagon, 1980 Cadillac Sedan, Murray 121C35 Ride On Lawn Mower.

ON VIEW FRIDAY 9TH SEPT 9AM TILL 4PM & DAY PRIOR 9AM TILL 2PM 13.75% BUYERS PREMIUM APPLIES TO THIS SALE CATALOGUE & PHOTOS AVAILABLE ON WEBSITE BUYERS NOTE: $100 (CASH) REGISTRATION FEE (REFUNDABLE) * 20% CASH DEPOSIT REQUIRED ON DAY OF SALE

AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS OF GENERAL & INDUSTRIAL PLANT & EQUIPMENT 30 GLENVALE CRESCENT MULGRAVE VIC 3170 TEL (03) 9562 0211 FAX (03) 9562 0545 email: mjbent@bigpond.com website: www.mjbentauctioneers.com.au

Customer Service Officer Credit Controller South Gippsland Water is an equal opportunity employer committed to developing a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with respect and feel valued and supported.

We are currently seeking an experienced Credit Controller to join our Customer Service Team based in Foster. The successful person will be responsible for handling debt collection procedures as well as responding to general customer enquiries and complaints. This position is part time with FTE negotiable. Applicants seeking flexible working arrangements are encouraged to apply.

Well-developed communication skills, coupled with extensive debt collection experience, and competent computer skills with proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook and email will be highly regarded.

A position description and further information on how to apply, including the requirement to address key selection criteria, is available on our website www.sgwater.com.au or by calling Paula Smith 03 5682 0403 or Kerry Mooney on 03 5682 0402.

Applications close 9am Monday 19th September 2016

AWS

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 41

livestock

bereavement thanks

deaths

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

WITHEROW - Clarissa Margaret (Margaret).

George, David, Ian, Peter and Graeme and the extended Witherow families want to express our sincere thanks to everyone for their cards, phone calls, visits and food we received associated with the passing of our Margaret. Your kindness and support is greatly appreciated.

We also wish to express our sincere thanks to Dr Corina Budileanu, Leongatha Medical Group, Leongatha Hospital, Frankston Hospital (Intensive Care), doctors and nurses to Leongatha (Vic Ambulance paramedics), Handleys Funeral Services (Paul and Margaret Beck), Ray Sullivan and the staff. To all Koonwarra Fire Brigade officers and members, CFA Gippsland Area and District 9 officers and staff and to District 9 VFBV Council members, to Leongatha Uniting Church members, Ladies Guild and to Leongatha RSL. Please accept our sincere and heartfelt thanks.

A wonderful grandfather, so loving and kind, What beautiful memories you leave behind.

Sharing and caring and always content, Loved and respected wherever you went.

A happy smile, a heart of gold.

You were the best this world could hold.

Your strength and guidance we looked up to, Such fond memories we hold of you.

The world is a sadder place without you Don. Yours was the blood that was worth bottling.

With love, Mick, Clare, Lara, Kelsey and Ryan. xxxxx

for rent INVERLOCH house to rent: 2BR house in old, leafy, quiet area.

Pleasant outlook and 500 metres to beach, $220 pw. Ph: 0448644334.

garage sales

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

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

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

marriage celebrant

Jo Fennell 0437 465 399

johanne4@bigpond.com

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

births STRETTON (Eagle) To Michaela and Chris.

A very big welcome to your beautiful baby boy, Hunter Jobe. A much awaited Grandson for Grumpy (Cal) and Nanna Sharyn. A potential 4WD wild child for Uncle Koh and Auntie Karli. A very special great grandson for Mary.

Love to you all.

engagements DOWD - DAVISON Sue and Sam of Inverloch, together with Karen and Gary of Koonwarra are thrilled to announce the engagement of Abby and Ben. Lots of love and happiness always.

in memoriam HUMPHREY - Mark.

Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts.

Love Mum, Dad, Sharee, Jodie, Daniel, Aleisha and Krystal.

McLEOD - Tony.

7.9.2008.

You’re never more than a thought away.

Missed and remembered every day.

Love always - Kez, Brent, Jess, Khy and Kaden, Jaimee, Zac and Indi, Kasey and Ben.

deaths ALLEN - David.

Passed away peacefully at Leongatha Hospital on Monday, August 29, 2016 with family by his side.

Will be missed by all his family and friends.

HILLIAR - Henry.

Grandad, thank you for all your love and amazing stories. You will be missed here but we know Rhondoula is waiting for you in heaven.

Lots of love, Janelle, Leo and Alfie, Lauren and Joe, Joel and Phoebe, Michael and Chris. xoxo HOGAN - Denis.

The MDU Football Netball Club would like to send its condolences on the passing of past premiership player.

LANDRY Donald James Samuel (Don).

21.7.1936 - 27.8.2016.

Late of Leongatha South.

Aged 80 years.

Reunited with his beloved wife Loris.

Dearly loved father of Stuart and Sue, Michael and Clare, Cheryl and Craig.

Adored grandfather of Mitchell and Thomas, Lara, Kelsey and Ryan, Daniel and Allixandrea.

He will live on in our hearts forever.

Dearest Dad. Memories of you are our greatest treasure, sadly missed but forever in our hearts.

Loved father of Stuart and father-in-law to Sue. Adored Pa of Mitchell and Thomas.

My mate Dad. I could not have asked for a better man. I’m going to miss you being by my side in your dusty hat and a rolled up shirt.

You were my compass in life and will be missed beyond words.

Your loving son, Mick.

Dad, Grandpa Cheryl and Craig, Daniel and Allixandrea.

To the world you are but one, To us you are the world.

LANDRY Donald James Samuel.

Born 21.7.1936 at Geelong.

Loved son of James C. and Irene Landry (both dec).

Loved brother of Lola and Frank (dec) Bailey.

Uncle of Geoff and Sue Bailey and their families.

LARKIN (nee Griffiths) Maureen Margaret.

7.7.1936 - 2.9.2016.

Passed away peacefully at Carrum Downs Nursing Home.

Late of Koonwarra.

Devoted wife of Frank (dec).

Much loved mother of Sue (dec), Jennie and Terry.

Mother-in-law of Geoff.

Loved Nanny of Kristie, Shane, Sherie and Kate.

Great Nanny of Lincoln.

Thanks for the memories Mum/Nanny.

O’GRADY - Michael John.

24.12.1941 - 4.9.2016.

Passed away peacefully at LRH. Loved partner of Philip and brother of Linda, Martin and Steven.

Stony Creek juniors celebrated ON August 19, the Stony Creek Football Netball Club held its Junior presentation at the Leongatha Dakers Centre.

Stony Creek president Steve Martin was thrilled with the attendance of more than 170 people, which is very positive for the future junior numbers.

Steve would also like to congratulate all trophy winners and gave a huge thank you to all parents who were willing to help out around the club throughout the season.

Stepping up: back from left, Josh Lindsay (most improved), Jordi Geary (coaches award), Alex Stanley (most determined), Rohan Baudinette (best backman), front from left, Andrew Logan (coach), Sarin Barnard (most consistent), Kurt Newton (Thirds best and fairest) and Hayden Funnell (Thirds runner up best and fairest) had a great season in Stony Creek’s Thirds team.

Team player: Connor Brown was presented with the best junior club person award by Stony Creek Football Netball Club president Steve Martin.

funerals

funerals

LANDRY - The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Mr Donald James Samuel (Don) Landry will be held at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Peart Street, Leongatha on Thursday, September 8, 2016 commencing at 11am.

The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Leongatha Lawn Cemetery.

LARKIN - The Funeral Service (Prayers) for Mrs Maureen Margaret Larkin will be held at St Laurence’s Catholic Church on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 commencing at 2pm.

The funeral will leave at the conclusion of Prayers for the Leongatha Lawn Cemetery.

Paul & Margaret Beck Proprietors

Caring for our Community, personal dignified service to all areas 5662 2717 Pre-need Funeral Plans available

Email your adverts to The Star

Office and Chapel: 24 Anderson Street, Leongatha hfs1@vic.australis.com.au MEMBER OF AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

ads@thestar.com.au

funerals

U15: from left, Holly Monaghan (coach), Courtney Allen (coaches award), Zali Deenen (runner up best and fairest), Jaslin Fisher (U15 best and fairest) and Brianna Weaver (runner up best and fairest) celebrated their season at Stony Creek’s presentation night.

Team effort: back from left, Fourths players Hughie Elliott (most improved), David Williams (most determined), Hugh Collins (runner up best and fairest), Tyrone Zukovskis, (coach), front from left, Jayden Battersby (coaches award), Jai Bright (best and fairest), John Phillips (most consistent ) and Izack McRae ( best first year player) were congratulated at Stony Creek’s presentation night.

Right Success: from left, Holly Monaghan (coach), Hayley Phillips (coach’s award), Ally Martin (best and fairest) and Tanya Dyke (runner up best and fairest) celebrated their season in Stony Creek’s U/17s side.

Scott and Sharon Anderson NX149914 CLOSE - A Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Mr Arthur Clifford Close will be held in our Leongatha Chapel, corner of South Gippsland Highway and Bellingham Street on Monday, September 12, 2016 commencing at 11am.

A private cremation has taken place.

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

Top year: from left, Ally Martin (coach), Samantha Dyke (runner up best and fairest), Brylie Dyer (best and fairest), Lexi Palmer (coach’s award) and Tanya Dyke (coach) were congratulated for their efforts in Stony Creek’s U/13s team.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

SPORT |

thestar.com.au

Stony Creek buoyed by race season THE Stony Creek Racing Club is back on track to record a healthy profit from last season as it sets to launch some new marketing initiatives ahead of the 2016/2017 race season.

Guest speaker: Lisa Coffey, Racing Victoria’s Workforce Development Officer, pictured centre, will be guest speaker at Stony Creek Racing Club’s annual general meeting in October.

Club chairman Paul O’Sullivan told The Star the club had tremendous public support with attendances of nearly 7,000 for the five meetings of last season. He was also delighted and thanked the many sponsors who had backed the club by sponsoring an event.

“Local sporting and community clubs have received around $16,000 for the year for their help on race days, as well as raising $600 for Foster SES during our publican’s race day,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“We’ve been able to provide great family entertainment for locals and holiday makers over our summer race days.”

“Due to hard working staff and their families, and voluntary efforts from the committee we’ve been able to reduce costs in most areas of the club’s operations to

help generate a profit this year.”

The club is set to launch a new membership drive, will soon hold a meeting with young racegoers to discuss ways to improve race day experiences and will have a special guest speaker at its upcoming annual meeting.

Speaking at the AGM to be held at the Meeniyan Hotel on Tuesday, October 4 will be Racing Victoria’s Workforce Development Officer, Lisa Coffey.

With over 20 years’ experience as both a competitor and educator in the racing and equestrian industries on both national and international platforms, Lisa has had the pleasure of educating thousands of horses and humans and nurturing their career pathways.

Mr O’Sullivan welcomed as many people as possible to the annual meeting, extending an invitation to any members or non-members who have an interest in racing. RSVP to Paul O’Sullivan 0429 933 240 or osulliva@dcsi.net.au

Perfect season victory SOUTH Gippsland Miners capped off a perfect season by defeating Traralgon 7 - 3 in the Latrobe Valley Baseball Association Under 13 grand final.

Mitch McGrath shut down the Redsox in its first innings at bat, registering three of his five strike outs on the day.

Then the Miners struck first blood when Tom Nicholas and McGrath scored two on consecutive hits from Bailey Harvey and Cam Prosser.

The RedSox’ Josh Burgar steadied in a second innings that saw no runs scored.

In the third the Miners’ Bailey Harvey took to the mound and put down the first three Traralgon batters in order.

In the bottom half of the innings the Miners added three to its total scoring Ethan Davis, McGrath and Harvey on three hits and a sacrifice out by Will Davies.

In the fourth innings Traralgon got up on Harvey who struggled with a few batters despite some nice plays in the field by third baseman Oscar Davis.

An extra base hit by Josh Uhe and a poor throw put three quick runs on the board for Traralgon.

Harvey settled and struck the next two Redsox out to end the comeback.

Ethan Davis then took the ball in hand and struck out two batters and had the last Traralgon hitter fly out to a waiting Prosser at second base.

Prosser made an easy catch to end the innings.

Time ran out with the Miners adding two more runs in the last inning.

Ethan Davis was awarded best on the ground for his play at shortstop, as pitcher and batting.

The Miners had a dominant season scoring 156 runs in 14 games and allowing only 25 runs against all opponents.

The club’s presentations were held in the evening with the Fielding Award going to Callum Buckland for his steady play at all positions during the season.

Coach’s award went to Cam Prosser for his dedication and perseverance and improving in all aspects of the game.

Cam finished the season with a 533 batting average.

Mitch McGrath walked away with the batting honours leading the team in doubles with eight and ending the season with 17 hits from 21 at bats with a batting average of 810, an outstanding performance, challenging even the American major league average.

Miners’ most valuable player award was given to Bailey Harvey, whose batting average was 750.

He scored 27 runs and contributed one third of all the scoring this year.

His pitching and fielding made him a triple threat.

This inaugural year has been an amazing run for the Miners Under 13 team.

The club would like to recognise all the sponsors, families and volunteers for making this one for the record books.

Bring on 2017.

Well run: Joy McKinnon at her 96th parkrun was a great supporter of the event, wore her red 50th run t-shirt proudly as a badge of honour and was supportive on the course of other runners of all ages.

Parkruns red for Joy INVERLOCH parkrun was a sea of red on Saturday as a tribute to Joy McKinnon who would have been completing her 100th event.

Tragically Joy passed away suddenly on August 15.

The red was in recognition of Joy’s 50th t-shirt which she wore proudly most weeks.

Those parkrunners who had 50 shirts wore them and others simply wore something red.

Joy was an inaugural member of Inverloch parkrun and rarely missed a week.

Miners are mint: coach John Long and the amazingly talented South Gippsland Miners are number one.

The U13 team is pictured after winning its inaugural Pennant. Miners defeated Traralgon Redsox at the grand final on Sunday, September 4 at the Sale ground.

She was always supporting and encouraging to others of all ages on the course.

Her personal best time was 45:14 and this was the target time for many parkrun walkers on Saturday.

Joy’s husband Allen, their son Geoff with his wife and three children, their daughter Janene with her husband and daughters and Joy’s eldest grandchild Raymond were in attendance for their first ever parkrun.

There were many other friends of the family who turned up to honour Joy and show support for the family.

Love and respect: Run for Joy was a chance for people to catch up and share memories and also an opportunity for many to attend their first parkrun event.

Joy’s family was overwhelmed at the number of people who came to show their respect and admiration for Joy and would like to thank everyone for this touching tribute.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 43

| SPORT

thestar.com.au • Leongatha Knights

Rivals defeat the Knights FATHER’S Day saw the Leongatha Knights at an away game against the Drouin Dragons.

Their opponents from last year’s grand final the match promised to be interesting.

Although the Leongatha Lady Knights brought heart to the pitch they were unable to bring the magic and failed to gain momentum.

Following two early goals from Drouin, Leongatha fought hard in defence to ensure they did not score again during the first half.

Several great plays from midfield saw chance opportunities on goal that were unfortunately not achieved for the Lady Knights.

A wonderful run from

Jordan Rintoule resulted in a superb goal that renewed Leongatha’s enthusiasm however they were unable to beat the home team.

Under 7s

WITH an early start to the day, Leongatha Knights had eight U7 players turn up to play Drouin.

With the chance to play on the main pitch, Drouin were able to arrange two matches and the club witnessed some outstanding football played in the glorious sunshine.

Knights had Shayan, Jake, Noah, Sam, Mitch, Neka, Taj and Jarrah and they all enjoyed their final game for the season.

The players get to go to Phillip Island next Saturday for the Gala Day, and then look forward to the big pre-

sentation day on September 24 and the annual parents versus children match.

This match is a sight to see and the club looks forward to seeing everyone there.

Under 12s

IT was one of the best games of the year at Drouin.

All players contributed with both Patrick and Toby saving goals and Eddie, Samuel and Charlie working well in defence. Samuel saved a certain goal with his head.

Hayden worked tirelessly in attack, assisted by Gerad and Hamish.

Jarryd and Brienna chased down the ball and kept their side in it.

Goals were from Hayden and Hamish.

At three two, they almost

came away with a win.

Thanks again to Ethan for a great year.

Under 16s

THE final round of the season and the Leongatha Knights U16 team travelled to Drouin to play the ladder leaders.

With regular keeper Phil Smith out ill it was enough to upset the settled side that has been playing good football over the last half of the season.

Drouin had everything to play for as a win guaranteed them the top spot and the chance to play the fourths side next week.

For the Knights it was a

game that couldn’t change their third place finish, and unluckily Drouin showed us up.

Sean Villasevil started in goal for the first half and did an admirable job.

His defensive line of Nicholas Bongers, Curtis Rintoule, Adam Watchorn and Jordan Rintoule worked hard to keep Drouin out but was hard pressed on the full size pitch.

Sam Bainbridge, Ali Lacanaria and Will Barker were trying everything they could to help but with a good first half Drouin went into the break five to zero and were looking impressive.

Sean came out from goal

and Curtis stepped up to take over, this allowed the quick Sean to terrorise the Drouin defence and with Hayleigh Bashaw, Caleb Chatelier and Tom Roberts in support they had more of the ball in the forward half.

Malik Phillips was used as the sub for Jordan, and the second half seemed to be a different game.

Knights were getting shots on the Drouin goal, but their keeper was able to save all but one.

When Sean ran onto a through ball from Caleb, it was as if it all came down to this goal.

Drouin played their ground extremely well and

used long balls to beat the Knights offside trap to run in a further four goals.

In a game where the Drouin team had controlled the play it was satisfying for the Knights team to put one on the score board.

Sean’s speed has left plenty of defenders behind and he was able to finally get a ball into the corner of the net.

Final result was nine to one.

The Knights team now look forward to meeting Phillip Island in the battle to see who will make it through to the grand final. Good luck to all teams concerned.

Fun match: Shayan, Jake, Noah, Sam, Mitch, Jack, Neka, Taj and Jarrah took on Drouin in the U7s game last week.

Defence: Leongatha’s Bree Ross fights for control of the ball.

Focus: Hamish Clark kept his eye on the ball, as his opponent tried to steer it away in the U12 match against Drouin.

Race: Will Barker sprinted to the ball ahead of his Drouin opponent in the U16 match last week.

Mixed results in final matches KORUMBURRA City played at Mirboo North for the final home and away game of the season.

Korumburra had mixed results.

The Under 12s suffered a five to two loss, Under 14s a four to two win, Under 15 girls a three to zero loss, Reserves a thrilling one all draw, the women had a dominating 15 to zero win and the senior men a three to one loss.

The Under 16s didn’t play.

All games were fast paced and played in great spirit.

Thanks to all Korumburra players who pulled on the boots during the season.

Thanks also to all the competitors, the referees and supporters and special thanks to the club sponsors and volunteers; looking forward to next season.

Highlight of the day was the Father’s Day Reserves side. No less than five father son combinations proudly playing for Korumburra.

Family pride: five sets of father and son combinations played in the Korumburra City Father’s Day Reserves side last week.

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

SPORT |

thestar.com.au

Hills challenge cyclists THE Tour of Gippsland challenged cyclists to ride through the hills from Wonthaggi to Inverloch on Saturday.

With 90 starters, the course made for an interesting race and took cyclists through Wonthaggi, Glen Alvie, Kongwak, Moyarra, Outtrim and Inverloch, with two laps around Mount Misery.

New Zealand’s Joe Cooper crossed the finish

line first with the impressive time of just over three hours, beating the second placed cyclist by one minute and three seconds.

Cooper also took out the Australia Paper yellow leaders jersey in the general classification section, the king of the mountains classification and the most aggressive rider classification.

Warragul’s Cyrus Monk took out the young rider classification.

Local cyclists: Leongatha Cycling Club’s Gavin Slavin and Kevin Feely caught the end of the Tour of Gippsland in Inverloch on Saturday.

Starting point: around 90 cyclists left Wonthaggi on Saturday to compete in a challenging Tour of Gippsland through the hills.

• Wonthaggi Table Tennis

It is sure to be a very challenging match for both players. Jack Duff (Butterfly) will be out to avenge his first season semi final defeated by Malachy O’Flynn (Indestructable).

Archie Paxton and

more competitive and aggressive right from the drop of the flag.”

Mr Trevorrow said Gippsland had once again turned the weather on for the event, with no rain falling during the race.

“No one likes to ride in the rain so we were happy to see it fine up. It was typical Gippsland weather,” he said.

Place getters: from left, the mayor of Bass Coast Shire, Cr Jordan Crugnale, Pat Shaw, Joe Cooper and Sam Chrome were the first three to finish this year’s Tour of Gippsland.

• Leongatha Table Tennis

Malachy and Jack face off this week IT is the last match of the first B Grade round of table tennis this season on Thursday and the remaining two unbeaten players will meet.

The Tour of Gippsland has been a major National Road Series event for around seven years and continues to attract cyclists from far and wide – including six American cyclists.

“Road races don’t get much better than this,” race director John Trevorrow said.

“The cyclists were raving about how great the course is. It’s a hard one – there is hardly any flat ground. The winding road makes the competition

Kenzi Gardner meet in the last match of the first round of A Reserve this week too. It is expected to be a very close result. Both players are now making their mark playing in A Grade as well.

Ladders

A Grade Mustangs .................. 20 21 (104) Audi .......................... 20 19 (90) T Model Ford........... 16 18 (82) GTS........................... 16 18 (82) Maxima ....................... 8 14 (84) Shelby Cobra (bye) ..... 4 15 (77) Leading players: Justin Licis 13 (55), Bruce Harmer 13 (52).

A Reserve Better than the Best 16 23 (83) The Best.................... 12 21 (71) Ponged ........................ 8 17 (63) DMack ........................ 4 17 (60) Incredibles ................... 4 15 (64) Jetty Jumpers............... 4 15 (57) Leading players: Archie Paxton (undefeated), Brad Scott 5 (16), Nancy Pattinson 5 (16) .

B Grade Indestructable.......... 16 12 (26) The Ones .................. 12 16 (29) Mean Machine ........... 8 9 (20) Butterfly ..................... 4 9 (24) Porsche ........................ 4 8 (20) Fury ............................. 4 8 (19) Leading players: Jack Duff, Malachy O’Flynn (undefeated).

Sharp: Junior winners from left, Charlie Cook, Hayden Hamilton and Aaron McKenzie in the club rooms at the Leongatha Recreation Reserve.

South Gippsland Field and Game SOUTH Gippsland Field and Game Simulated Field Clay Target Shoot held on Sunday, September 4 was conducted in overcast and cool conditions with no rain.

Eighty eight shooters enjoyed a 60 Targets Novelty event which was held in conjunction with our annual “Come and Try Day” which was attended by forty potential new members.

High gun was S. Silver with a score of 52 and the place getters are: AA: S. Silver 52, S. White 44, and T. Smallman 22.

A: J. Hardman 47, B. Miller 46 and B. Morrison 45.

B: T. Stybosh 47, N. Nelson 46 and S. Jarvis 45.

C: M. Peterson 44, D. Rodreges 41 and B. Bynes 41.

Vets: G. Hart 45, J. Jennison 40 and Jim 13.

Ladies: T. Jacobs 38, D. Woods 34 and J. Hagen 31.

Juniors: H. Hamilton 42, C. Cook 37 and A. Mckenzie 37.

The Fathers Day raffle, held to raise funds to purchase a defibrillator for the club was won by T. Hardman.

The next shoot will be a 75 Tgts Sim Grd event held on Sunday, October 2 starting at 11am at Hallston.

If you are interested in trying Simulated Field Clay Target Shooting just come along, you will be made most welcome.

South Gippsland Field and Game also had its last fox drive for the year in August which was attended by 20 members who shot twelve foxes for the day, which made a total of 37 for the four drives for the year.

James Rowley’s double act LEONGATHA Table Tennis Club B Grade championships were fought out on Tuesday night, August 21 with James Rowley proving too strong for all other contenders in defeating Tim Hardacre in the final to claim the Singles title.

Rowley then combined with Lachie Griffiths to defeat Tim Hardacre and Liam Gourlay to win the Doubles title.

Next week will see the start of season finals.

TMM has snuck up to top spot with a slender advantage over Cheetahs.

It has 12 points, 45 games and 157 sets to Cheetahs’ 12, 45, 148.

Hopefuls are next (6, 38, 132), DMK, (4, 35, 130), MBN, (4, 34, 134) and Milkos hold up the ladder on 4, 34, 126.

In the leading player race Allan Robic (21) has a four win break over Michael Grist (17), Bryce Holwerda (17), Kevin Dowling (15), and Neil Chilver (14).

Milko’s defeated DMK 7-4 and broke a four match losing streak.

This win lifts them off the bottom into the top four - they

don’t want the wooden spoon.

Neil Chilver was back in top form winning two Singles and two Doubles.

His match against Michael Westaway which he won (1012, 11-8, 11-13, 11-8, 11-6) was great to watch.

Top team TMM defeated MBN in a tight finish (6-5) with Trish Denier to steady for Michael Holwerda in the last rubber.

The Cheetahs - Hopefuls match also had a 6-5 result with Cam, ‘Facebook’ Dowling winning two Singles and a Doubles, being particularly pleased with his caning of president, Uncle Kev (11-4, 119, 11-9) in the Singles and then combining with Allan Robic to defeat Kev and Alan Fletcher in the doubles.

The Keen-Agers social group play every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 9am to noon while they are not champions at table tennis any more, they know how to have fun, enjoy a social morning tea and chat and get a lot of exercise both for the body and brain as they go for that killer shot or try to remember the score or who should be serving to whom, all for four dollars.

If you would like to join the group contact Ian on 5662 5578 or just turn up at the Table Tennis Centre at the Leongatha Recreation Reserve.

Double action: from the ladder’s second placed Cheetahs-Hopefuls team, Cam Dowling was on both the Singles and Doubles winning lists

Spring winners: from left, Karen Bear, Wendy Parker, Dot Stubbs, Marg Griffiths (runners up), Marg Ryan, Chris Hamilton, Delores Harvey, and Ivy Ruby (Winners Wonthaggi Golf Club).

Spring Fiesta PAUL and Margaret Beck of Handley Funeral Services very generously sponsored the annual Spring Fiesta held at Leongatha Golf Club last week.

Players from Leongatha and other district clubs competed in an Irish 4BBB in weather that closely resembled winter.

Many of the teams were colourfully attired as was the club house thanks to the organisation of past president Pam Christensen.

The format of the game required the players to select the three best scores; not always easy to do.

Marg Ryan, Delores Harvey, Chris Hamilton and Ivy Ruby from Wonthaggi Golf Club scored 102 points to win the event.

Delores holds a previous course record at Leongatha and must have put this knowledge to good use.

The runners-up (100) with a home ground advantage were Marg Griffiths, Dot Stubbs, Wendy Parker and Karen Bear.

Karen, a relatively new member, has been playing excellent golf recently.

Down the line teams were: Maxine Eabry, Julie Howard, Fay Quilford and Trish Owen - 96 points; Loris Clark, Marea Maher, Karen Orford and Lianne Adamson - 95; and Coral Gray, Toni West, Vickie Milner and Colleen Touzel 92.

NTP: second shot was won by Toni West and Wendy Parker on the fourth and seventh and Delores Harvey, Wonthaggi Golf Club was the closest on the 14th and Chris Grant, Lang Lang Golf Club on the 16th.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 45

SPORT | GOLF Leongatha SATURDAY Medal Day was dominated by David Forbes.

On a day when good scoring was difficult, David produced the best round of the day with a net 71 to take the Medal, A Grade and the Super Comp.

He was also very close to a hole-in-one on the 16th where he finished only 0.45m away to be NTP and that wrapped up a huge day.

B Grade was taken out by Mark Anderson with a net 72 and Gary Sharrock had a net 75 to win C Grade.

Other NTPs were Peter Read on the fourth hole, Luke Popov on the seventh and Michael Thomas was only 0.35m away on the 14th to be NTP there.

DTL balls were awarded to Jon Smith, Gordon Morrison, David Child, Gerry Carcour, Tom Sorrell, Ian Murchie, Peter Waters, Russell Williams, Michael Thomas, Barry Stevens, Nick Lafferty, Barry Attwood, Fred de Bondt and Ken Wardle.

On Tuesday 48 players contested a Stableford competition with Ian Murchie winning A Grade with 36 points on a countback.

B Grade was taken out by newly appointed club captain, Andy Bassett, with 34 points.

NTPs were David Forbes on both the fourth and seventh holes, Bert Borg on the 14th and Colin Bear on the 16th.

DTL balls were won by Bert Borg, Colin Bear, Peter Buttinger, Grant McRitchie, Gary Sharrock, Will Norden, Colin Martin, John Housey, Bruce Hutton, David Child and David Forbes.

With the course drying out after a long winter the scoring

on Thursday showed a definite improvement.

Best score of the day was put in by Alan Kuhne with 40 points to win B Grade.

A Grade was won by Norm Hughes with 38 points and Paul Luck took out C Grade also with 38 points.

Peter Brownlie collected 12 balls for an excellent Eagle Three on the Par Five 18th hole.

NTPs were Josh Hall on the fourth hole, Alan Kuhne on the seventh, Ian Murchie on the 14th and Grant McRitchie on the 16th.

DTL balls were awarded to Will Norden, Barry Attwood, Chris Leaver, Neil Mackenzie, Geoff McDonald, John Moor, Colin Martin, Fred Debono, Russell Williams, John Dalton, Grant McRitchie, Peter Brownlie, John Housey and Bruce Hutton.

After seven completed rounds and with only the October Monthly Medal round to go, we have another close finish to the 2016 Owen McMicking Plate.

This prestigious Board event is conducted on the Monthly Medal rounds from March to October and is awarded for the five lowest net scores over that period.

Following ties the past three years in this event, we now have two players tied for the lead this year.

Ian Murchie and Jon Smith both have best five-round net totals of 364 and both have high round scores of 76.

Jon was unlucky in last year’s event to be defeated on a count back but put himself into contention once again this year with a fine 72 in Saturday’s September Monthly Medal round.

thestar.com.au However, as was the case last year when Nick Lafferty came from the clouds to snatch victory on the final day, there are a few other players still in contention.

Bruce Hutton is lurking in the shadows with a five round total of 373 which includes a high score of 82, so a good final round could see him steal victory.

Others still in contention include Peter Buttinger (368 which includes a 77) and John Eabry (375 including an 81).

Woorayl THE trophies for Saturday’s stableford were provided by John and Ash Hickey.

A Grade went to Ash Turner with 43 points, B Grade to Ross Winkler with 38 points and C Grade to Brian Wilson with, wait for it, 30 points.

Balls to B. Hogan, P. Burgess, B. Stubbs, G. Maisey, Da. Dwyer, J. Gill, R. Goodwin, T. Hogan and J. Newton.

Nearest the pins to Jason Gill and Ivor McLennan.

The ball raffle to ‘George syndicate’.

Our Thursday competition went to Mick Herrald with 40 points and we gave balls to Gavin Price and Bo Fiek.

Next week is a two man Ambrose with trophies provided by Edney’s Nissan.

Woorayl Ladies A 4BBB Stableford was played on Wednesday, August 31 and the winners were Anne Grist and Inge Giliam with 44 points.

BDL: Shirley Thomas and Paula Ennoss with 39 points.

NTP: on the eighth Thel Scoble and Inge Giliam took the honours on the 17th. Ellie Berryman had a nice Birdie on

Bubbling along: from left, the winners Maryanne Gartner, Karen Bear and Rebecca Thomas, club captain Shirley Welsford, outgoing president Pam Christensen and the runners-up Toni West, Dot Stubbs and Marie Sands.

Leongatha Ladies A LARGE field supported the Captain and Presidents’ Day last Wednesday.

Both president, Pam Christensen and captain, Shirley Welsford very generously sponsored this annual event and provided a vast array of raffle prizes.

Pam has just completed a four year stint as vice president and president and is looking forward to a very

Meeniyan men A GOOD field of 18 players came out on a pretty perfect day to play a singles Stableford game.

Will Bullock smashed the

Daryle’s day: Saturday Monthly Medal winner was Daryle Gregg with a score worthier of mid spring.

well earned rest.

Pam has excellent leadership skills and her artistic flair was evident in all special events held at the club.

Due to a recent decision at the AGM there will be no future Women’s president.

The Women’s committee positions will be now be nominated through the board and chaired by the Women’s captain Winners of the day with a score of 59.16 were Rebecca

Thomas, Karen Bear and new member Maryanne Gartner.

The runners-up were Dot Stubbs, Toni West and Marie Sands with a score of 63.16.

DTL: Wendy Parker, Louise Schache and Lynda Bassett 64, Melinda Martin, Jan Bissett and Colleen Touzel 66.5 and Helen Mackenzie, Marea Maher and Nancy Sperling just snuck in with 66.6.

The Saturday, September 3 winner was Coralie Baker 123/43/80.

field with a magnificent 45 points and a drop in his handicap to 17.

Bill Pratt came up to beat the consistent Bob McGeary on a count back with 42

points.

Thursday saw Bob McGeary claim the prize again with another good score of 40 points after dropping his handicap to 15 after Tuesday’s game (well done Bob to keep the form up).

Players took on the full course and were pleasantly surprised with how the course held up after the recent rain.

No cart issues along if you stick to the tracks and the treed side of fairways.

Despite the footy finals being held in Meeniyan on Saturday, a reasonable field came out to play.

Meeniyan town was abuzz with car parking a premium.

Monthly Medal went to Daryle Gregg with a score worthier of mid spring: net 64, and only 24 puts (congratulations Daryle).

Col Graeme was runner-up again with a credible net 70,

Consistent: Bob McGeary is keeping his form up and finished the Thursday winner at the Meeniyan Golf Club on Thursday.

the 11th to win her nearest the pin.

With the year quickly disappearing and spring upon us, next week is the September Monthly Medal.

Korumburra THERE were 23 players on Saturday, September 3 for a stroke monthly medal competition (CHMT), with trophies supplied by Tim O’Neill.

A Grade: (10 hcp) S. Harland 69 net, T. O’Neill 73, N. Spargo 75, M. Wrigley 75, P. Vanagtmaal 75.

B Grade: (18 hcp) T. O’Neill 77 net, R. Newton 71 net, R. Gallagher 75.

Nearest the pin: 1st R. Newton, 7th R. Newton, 10th no one, 13th S. Harland.

Tuesday’s winner was P. Vanagtmaal 35 pts and Thursday’s winner was R. Rees 36 pts.

Korumburra Ladies THERE was a friendly two person Ambrose event last Wednesday with twenty women out on the course.

Lee Clements and Betty Thomson (11) won with 34 points and Sharon Adams and Jan Hewitt (16) were runnersup with 30 points.

Jean White was NTP on the first hole and sank the putt for a nice Birdie.

Lee Clements was closest on the 13th and Jenny Blackmore had the best second shot on the seventh green.

Next Wednesday, is a Canadian Foursomes competition with Dot West sponsoring the day.

Groups will be organised as players arrive at the club house between 9am and 9.15am.

Members are bringing lunch to share followed by the Auxiliary AGM at approximately 2.30pm.

Wednesday, September 14 will be the Monthly Medal event.

There were no starters on Saturday.

Thanks to the group of women who were able to help do some gardening around the

course last Monday, August 22.

Foster SPRING has arrived at last and the course is looking great.

The ground staff has been laying new drainage and undertaking other work which will see the course improve in both the short and long term.

Welcome to Scott Allot as our new apprentice groundsman.

He has Shaun’s big shoes to fill but we’re sure he’ll fit in well.

The September Men’s Monthly Medal was won by John Simpson with a great 67 net.

He carved the course up with a sizzling game and left the competition poached.

The feared golfers, Vanin, Dight and Cooper, have continued in form getting their names all over the winning sheets.

Peter Dight took another step forward on Sunday in the Tuer Match Play beating Norm by two holes.

Beth Curram and Judy Bacon won a very interesting Medley Competition on Wednesday.

Apparently playing six holes of Canadian, six holes of Foursomes and then six holes of American gets that complex they needed colour coded scorecards to keep track.

It is so close to multi-tasking, the women tell me that the men won’t even consider medley golf.

Rod Coughran-Lane was drawn out on Friday night for the $850 members draw but was not present to collect the prize.

The Jackpot is now $900 for next Friday night.

Tuesday, August 30 Stableford won by Norm Cooper 39 points.

NTP: sixth, Trevor Jones and 15th, Norm Cooper.

DTL: Robin Smith, 35 points.

Wednesday, August 31 Two Person Medley won

by Beth Curram and Judy Bacon 69.

NTP: sixth, Val Williams and 17th, Rae Knee.

DTL: June Eddy and Val Williams 70.

Thursday, August 25 Stableford won by Norm Cooper 41 points.

NTP: sixth, P. Dight and 17th, P. Dight.

DTL: Peter Dight, 35 points.

Friday, August 26 Chook Run (back nine) was won by Trent Price, 20 points.

DTL: J. Simpson 19, C. Gray 19 and K. DaSilviera 17.

Saturday, August 27 Medal Stroke was won by John Simpson, 67 net.

A Grade: T. Vanin 73 net.

Scratch: T. Vanin 78 gross.

NTP: fourth, G. Cox; sixth, R. McCallion; 13th, R. Smith; th 15 P. McKay; and 17th P. Dight.

DTL: R. McCallion 72, S. Rathjen 74, P. Dight 74 and N. Cooper 75 c/b.

Nine Holes: S Canning c/b.

Coming events Wednesday, September 7 Monthly Medal vying for the Staff / Viv Reid Trophy.

Thursday, September 8 Par and Friday 9 Chook Run on the front nine holes and on Saturday 10 it is the Lefties versus Righties Stroke vying for the Kevin and Marilyn Trophy.

Mirboo North THURSDAY Stableford Day winner was Peter Draper (9) 40 points.

DTL: Jeff Hughes 37, Russell Pentland 36, Joe Taylor 35 and Neil Whitelaw 34.

NTP: fourth, Simon Duff.

Saturday was Monthly Medal (count putts), Annual Star Medal and Annual Flag Day. The Medal winners A Grade: Steve Bickerton (9) 71 net.

Ladies winner: Sue Traill (18) 28 points.

B Grade: Neil Whitelaw (15) 71 net c/b.

DTL: Brandon Bradshaw 72, Stu Henning 73, John McFarlane 73, Tom Traill 74 and Russell Pentland 74 c/b.

NTP: second shot on the first hole was Simon Duff, fourth Stu Henning, sixth Nigel Bracecamp; 13th Ian Evison and 16th Steve Bickerton.

Star Medal winner 2016: Brandon Bradshaw.

A Grade flag, Terry Brad-

Wonthaggi Golf Club

Leading lights: the winner of the Wednesday hit off Delores Harvey with runner-up Annie Tschiderer in front of the coveted leadlight, winners’ back drop in the club rooms at the Wonthaggi Golf Club. but nowhere near Daryle.

Sponsor for the day was Fish Creek Hardware Store and the club thanks the store for its support.

This week the club farewells Denise Poletti who has been club house manager for eight and a half years.

Denise has been the backbone of the club for this time, always smiling and welcoming to members and green fee players alike.

Denise will be sorely missed by members.

An afternoon farewell is planned for Saturday, September, 10 at 3pm in the clubhouse.

On Tuesday, August 30 the Singles Stableford was won

by Will Bullock (18) with 45 points.

The runner-up was Bill Pratt (34) 42 points on a count back from Bob McGeary (16).

NTP: second, Bob McGeary; and 11th Bob McGeary.

Best Nine: Brian Dewar (18) 21 points.

On Thursday, September 1 the Singles Stableford was won by Bob McGeary (15) with 40 points.

The runner-up was Frank Piele (35) 33 points.

NTP: second, Daryle Gregg; eighth, Bob MxcGeary; and14th, Bob McGeary.

Best Nine: Peter Wilson (21) 18 points.

Saturday, September 3, Medal Day was Stroke play and the winner was Daryle Gregg (23) with 64 net.

Runner-up: Col Graeme (14) 70 net.

Putting: Daryle Gregg 24 putts.

Members draw: Bruce Betts (draw jackpots to next week).

NUMBERS are creeping up with the temperature; 16 Ladies hit off on Wednesday for winter golf but the sun peeked through and gave a lovely vibe to the day.

Delores Harvey (22) came in with the top score of 29 points closely followed

by Annie Tschiderer (17) 27 points on count back from

shaw; B Grade flag, Brandon Bradshaw; and C Grade flag, Josh Robbins.

Next week is Par sponsored

by Stu Henning.

Mirboo North Ladies LADIES golf on Wednesday, August 24 was sponsored by Sandra Hughes.

The winner was Sue Traill with 28 points and Sandra Hughes was the runner-up with 27 points.

NTP: on the sixth hole Sue Traill and the 13th Freeda Nair.

Sponsored by Anne Wood the winner on Wednesday, August 31 was Nicole Allen minus two and the runner-up, Wendy Gervasi, minus three.

NTP: fourth Freeda Nair and 16th Sandra Hughes.

Wonthaggi THE men’s nine hole midweek competition attracted nine players.

The winner was B. Howard 15 points. Ball down the line to N. Burne 15 points.

Our men’s midweek 18 hole competition attracted 23 players and the winner was R. Bolding 38 points.

Balls down the line: B. Vanagtmaal 38, J. Strong 36, G. Crawford 35, D. Wilson 34, C. Wilkinson 34.

Nearest the pin 8th J. Strong.

Eagle 7th B. Vanagtmaal.

On Sunday we played our September monthly medal with a field of 72 players.

A Grade winner was E. Vanagtmaal 74 net, B Grade and monthly medal winner was R. Yann 70 net and C Grade winner was J. Harvey 73 net.

Balls down the line: P. Dell, J. Richardson, A. Copeland 75; R. Hender, M. Scott, B. Clark, K. Loughran, P. Chapman 76; B. Fennell, J. Wade, R. Francis, J. Jordan, P. Hanley 77; B. Vanagtmaal 78.

Nearest the pin: 2nd A. Geyer, 8th P. Young, 13th P. Dell, 17th J. Foon.

Eagle 7th P. Dell. Putting J. Harvey 27 putts.

Don’t forget the annual general meeting is on Thursday, September 22 at 7.30pm.

Have a great week, spring is in the air.

Marg Johnson.

NTP: second hole Marg Johnson, Pro Pin eighth hole Anne Tschiderer (and yes, she won the daily raffle as well) and on the 17th Donna Van Veenendaal added four points to her card - terrific shot Donna.

BDL: Marg Johnson 27 points, Marg Ryan 25, Robyn Wilkinson 24, Catherine Bolding 24 and Pam Hanley 24.

Best games: from left, Andrea Thorson, Veronica Park and Belinda Angwin were the winning Ladies at Meeniyan Golf Club on Wednesday when the temperature topped 19 on a perfect spring like day for being on the fairways.

Meeniyan Ladies ON Wednesday, August 31 the Ladies played Stableford in wonderful conditions.

The sponsor for the day was Veronica Park who also won Section One (16) with 33 points.

The winner of Section Two was Belinda Angwin (38) with 29 points.

The Best Nine went to Andrea Thorson (9) 16 points.

NTP: third shot on the fifth, Jan Roberts, second shot on the second hole, Andrea Thorson and a birdie on the eighth, Veronica Park.

DLB: Faye Le Page (21) 29 points and Jan Roberts (32) 28 Points.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

SPORT | BOWLS Inverloch

SATURDAY Pennant players visited Wonthaggi for the annual pre-season match for the Bunnurong Shield currently held by Inverloch.

Inverloch fielded four teams (a number of regular Pennant players are still absent due to the annual winter exodus) but managed a 190/160 win over its traditional rivals, thereby retaining the shield for this year.

Inverloch bowling club

thestar.com.au

president Ron Burge thanked Wonthaggi for its hospitality and Wonthaggi president Scott Morrison responded noting - tongue in cheek - that Inverloch was so confident of victory we forgot to bring the Shield with us.

Saturday Pennant players signed to play on Saturday, September 10 for the annual pre-season match, The Battle of Hastings, are reminded that the bus leaves from the IBC carpark at 9.45am and will

Practice: from left, Jan Fraser, Cynthia Hensley, Marg Flett and Val Davis claimed runner-up honours at the Inverloch Bowls Club opening held on Sunday.

not wait.

Sunday, September 4 saw the official opening of the club for season 2016-2017. Fifty nine bowlers dusted off their club uniforms for the event which started with a light lunch of soup and sandwiches.

Then it was Jean Burrows, our member at 95 years young, who rolled the first jack followed by Ladies Club Champion, Carol Hughes bowling the first bowl.

A game of 15 ends was played by teams of fours and triples.

Runners up with 14 shots up were Jan Fraser, Val Davis, Cynthia Hensley and Marg Flett.

Congratulations to our winning team of Bruce Corrigan, Carol Waters, Nic Van Grunsven and Diana Patterson who won with 16 shots up.

Afternoon tea was welcomed by all the players.

Raffles were won by Ross Gabb, Richard Huntriss, Ray Gostling and Marg Flett.

Thanks for the donation of a superbly decorated mud cake made by Gail Burge, two bowling shirts from the Australian Open and Indoor Bowls events from Lorraine Dowson

and from an unknown Donald a Luv-A-Duck.

What a great way to kick off what will be another exciting season of bowls.

The Ladies Get Together will be held on Wednesday, September 7 at 10.30am.

Please note change of time.

All ladies are welcomed as we finalise club responsibilities and discuss any other points of interest.

Social bowls will follow this meeting with names in by 11.30am for a 12.30pm start.

The Men’s Social Bowls will start for the season on Thursday, September 8.

Names in by 11.30am for a 12.30pm start.

Members interested in competing in various club championships are asked to complete the forms which are in trays near the noticeboard.

Players should take note of round completion dates which will be strictly enforced by the match committees.

A bowling clinic will be run by Bryan Hensley and Gary Hardy on Friday.

Friday is our meal night - names on the blackboard if interested.

Open for business: opening the season by rolling the first jack and bowl at Inverloch were, from left, the Ladies Club Champion, Carol Hughes, Jean Burrows and president Ron Burge.

Leongatha WEDNESDAY, August 31 saw the midweek social bowls in action.

Winners were J. Lye (s) and Susan Crouch with three wins plus 20 and the runners-up were Alan Rayson (s) and Tas Haywood with two wins plus nine.

Saturday, September 3 saw the club’s official opening day underway with 34 players / 16 teams taking to the greens.

After the official traditional rolling of the kitty by the director of men’s bowls, Harry Forrester and the first bowl was put down by the director of the ladies bowls, Glenda Trotman.

The winners on the day were Tas Haywood (s) and teammate John Richards with three wins plus 16 and runnersup were Jeff Pendergast (s) and Susan Crouch with three wins plus 14.

A great afternoon of bowls was had by all.

Members are advised on Saturday, September 24 there is a pennant practice match arranged with Korumburra at Korumburra. Names are required as soon as possible on the list in the board room.

Also the club’s opening dinner night is at the clubrooms on Friday, September 16 at 6.30pm.

Each Monday at 10am there will be a roll up coaching etc from now on in order that bowlers can improve their skills.

Also sheets are up on the noticeboard in the board room for names to take part in the club’s events and association events.

Until the next report, good bowling - ‘Jackhigh’.

Fish Creek

Ahead of the rest: winners of the Inverloch Club opening day were, from left, Diana Patterson, Nic Van Grunsven, Carol Waters and Bruce Corrigan.

TIDES Here is an easy guide to tides in your area.

To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below.

Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Point Lonsdale

SEPTEMBER Time

7 WED

8 THUR

9 FRI

10 SAT

11 SUN

12 MON

13 TUE

height (metres)

0339 0919 1543 2144

1.54 0.49 1.54 0.37

0413 0954 1614 2217

1.52 0.53 1.51 0.37

0447 1029 1646 2251

1.49 0.57 1.48 0.38

0526 1105 1721 2326

1.45 0.63 1.43 0.40

0609 1142 1800

1.41 0.68 1.37

0000 0658 1221 1845

0.43 1.36 0.74 1.32

0041 0755 1307 1940

0.46 1.33 0.79 1.27

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

The winning team: from left, Max Wise, Garry Shandley, Judy O’Sullivan and Merry Dyson-Holland at Korumburra on Tuesday, August 30.

Pennant Croquet has begun GOLF Croquet Pennant competition began on Tuesday, August 23 with seven West Gippsland clubs participating in our section including Wonthaggi (two teams), Phillip Island, Korumburra, Morwell, Drouin, Warragul and Leongatha.

Drouin was too good for Leongatha on the first day but we bounced back in the second week to defeat Korumburra.

Association Croquet Pennant competition began on Thursday, September 1 and includes five participating Gippsland clubs from Phillip Island, Sale, Korumburra,

Traralgon (two teams) and Leongatha.

Leongatha played and defeated Korumburra in its first contest. Our season is off to a great start.

Leongatha Croquet Club is celebrating the Victorian Seniors Festival in October with a ‘Come and Try’ day on Saturday, October 8.

Everyone is invited and welcome to come and try our great game with the use of equipment and coaching free but please wear flat soled shoes and the afternoon wouldn’t be complete without our famous afternoon tea.

For more information call Nanette Meredith 0412 187 608.

Interested people are welcome to come and try out our great game anytime and our club days are Wednesday and Saturday from 1pm.

Korumburra volleyball ROUND 8

A Grade: Nads defeated Saints (3:0) 25:10, 25:22, 25:23; Bugs defeated Champions (3:0) 25:13, 25:16, 25:16; and Golliwogs drew Warriors (1:1) 25:18, 20:25 7:12.

B Grade: Orsum defeated Knights (3:0) 25:16, 25:21, 25:20; HELP defeated Hulls Angels (3:0) 25:23, 25:6, 24:19; Falcons defeated Gems (3:0) 25:17, 25:11, 25:20; and Panthers defeated Albatross (3:0) 25:18, 25:12, 25:14.

Juniors Red defeated Black 25:21, 7:5; and Blue defeated Clouds 25:22, 9:6.

IN spite of quite a few nomads having not yet returned the casserole evening was well attended with some welcome guests present.

As usual the cuisine was of

a terrific standard, and a great time was had by all.

Members are requested to note the usual practice will take place this Tuesday and next Tuesday with Pennant starting thereafter on the Tuesday, September 27.

There will be a social game on Sunday, September 11 for all members wishing to participate, starting at 12.30.

The event will be followed by a barbecue with members requested to bring a small salad.

Ladies are reminded of the next meeting to be held on Wednesday, September 14.

All members wishing to be considered for Saturday Pennant should be at the club rooms at 12.30pm on Saturday, September 17 for a practice game against Tarwin Lower, in uniform.

The next General Committee meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 21 at 7pm.

Buffalo indoor INDOOR bowls at Buffalo on August 24 saw the ladies bowling against the men.

After playing two games of 10 ends Toni Heldens and Joyce Occhipinti won the night from Bill Wolswinkel, Joe Occhipinti and Ian Rogers with a win and a drawn game. An enjoyable night for all.

This week at bowls there were eight bowlers and several watching and having a chat.

Four pairs were selected and two games of 10 ends played.

At the end of the night Charlie Tumino and Peter Tiziani won as they were the only team with two wins (WW) 13 ends from Toni Heldens and Joyce Occhipinti (WL) 11 ends; then Joe Occhipinti and Ian Rogers (LW) 10 ends, and fourth Bill Wolswinkel and Mary Tumino (LL) five ends.

Social bowls on Wednesday, 7.30pm at the Buffalo hall.

All welcome.

Mardan Indoor THINGS were almost back to normal as the nomadic members of the club start to return from their adventures and for the most part warmer settings.

We had 15 members at the hall which gave us a much stronger pool of players to sort into teams.

We were one short of having all teams of equal number but ended up with one team of three and the remainder in 4s.

Over two games of 10 ends we had a full on evening and a mixed bag of results some of which will be best not spoken about, mainly because it concerns me.

Never mind there is always next week!

The biggest score of the night went to Ian Hasty and his team that nailed its first game with a huge 18 shot win and a lot of the credit has to go to his leading lady (Kristy Rutjens) who had to have played her best game ever, before her magic was all used up by the second game.

Somehow, Vito managed to drop out of the skipper’s role and play third, but still managed to continue his run of being in a winning team with his favourite playing partner and partner in crime Jeannie Baker.

Winners with two wins were Graeme Trease, Jeannie Baker, Vito Serafino and Cliff Smith (s).

Runners-up with one win, 11 ends Kristy Rutjens, Jeanette Grady, Margaret Campbell and Ian Hasty (s).

Next week should be equally as enjoyable if we get a similar or larger attendance.

Hopefully we might get to have six teams and play three games, so come on Mardan, spring is here - brush off the winter cob webs and come and have some fun.

• Leongatha badminton

Tense semi finals

YOU could have cut the tension in the air with a knife as both semi finals were very tight affairs all through the night.

In the first semi final for review it was the Saints that got out of the blocks quickly.

Steve Johnson and Matthew Oomman getting to a big lead in their doubles set, crucially Gary McGrath and Arthur Grabham clawed their way back to only go down 21-17.

Then Ian Cole and June Knott got into the action to dominate the next doubles set, giving the Hawks a slender lead. Arthur Grabham and Ian Cole then got on with the job, winning their respective singles

matches.

Not to be denied, Steve Johnson and Dominic O’Brien won their singles matches to give the Saints some chance but the steadiness of the Hawks came to the fore and they won the last two doubles sets to get home by a mere 19 points and into next week’s grand final.

The other semi final was even closer with the sets going either way all night.

Tim Bright and Joel Langstaff began well for the Bombers with a good doubles win, then Leonie Degnan and Brae Byrne teamed up for an emphatic doubles win 21-5 to put the Eagles well in front.

The singles sets began with Tim and Joel again winning their respective sets while Leonie Degnan had a huge win to

defeat Jim Newton 15-9.

Brae Byrne was well up on Tracey Ryan in their singles but determination got Tracey going and crucially she only lost the set 15-13 in a top match.

The Bombers came through in the last two doubles sets to come away with a memorable 15 point win, and a chance at the premiership next week.

It was a night of great atmosphere and thanks to all the members who umpired. Our presentation dinner is at the Leongatha RSL on September 10 starting at 6.30pm and a top night is assured. Good luck to all teams involved in next week’s grand final, it should be a cracker of a match.

Results semi finals: Bombers 5/120 d Eagles 3/105, Hawks 5/124 d Saints 3/105.

South Gippsland Bridge Club THE North/South Pairs event held at Inverloch on Friday, September 2 was challenging with some demanding boards.

First with the excellent score of 62.80 was the highly talented pair of John Sutton and Kaye Douglas. It is great to have John back with us playing Bridge after a recent operation.

Second with 53.87 were John Farr and Anne Williams, a very experienced pair of players and third with a solid 52.68 were Bron Sund and Jack Kuiper.

East/West First was the ever reliable pair of John Sullivan and Alan Johnston with the brilliant score of 64.29, the best of the day.

Second with a lovely 60.71 was the very consistent pair of Faye Rowlands and Pat West.

Third with 47.62 were Mavis Park and Ellie McIntyre.

Pairs at Tarwin Lower on Tuesday, Au-

gust 30.

Saw John Sutton and Ken McKenzie take first place with a fine 63.89.

Equal second with yet another lovely score of 62.98 were the irrepressible John Sullivan and Alan Johnston sharing the second spot with Colin Cameron and Marj Freeman.

Fourth with 49.54 were Faye Rowlands and Pat West - ever among the top players.

At our evening venue on Monday, August 29 at Meeniyan the first pair with the score of the week and well ahead of anyone else was Susan Ruffin and Jack Kuiper with the stunning 72.92.

Second with 59.58 was the very consistent pair of Faye Rowlands and Frank Arndt.

Third with 53.12 were Margaret Munro and Margaret Smith.

Please check our website for details of upcoming events, weekly play and the number to ring to find a playing partner.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 47

FOOTBALL | SPORT

thestar.com.au • MGFL Elimination Final

Tigers licked as den caves in MIRBOO North limped out of the 2016 Mid Gippsland finals, when it went down to Morwell East by 27 points, in a hard hitting first semi final at Willow Grove on Sunday.

The game was played on a lush 75mm green grassy surface, where any milking cow would most keenly graze and contentedly chew her cud.

Ironically, the mighty Tigers’ losing score was identical to their qualifying final defeat tally against Yallourn Yallourn North, the previous week.

From midway through the second quarter, Mirboo North’s interchange bench became a refuge and recovery centre for players injured in the heat of battle.

Shane Peters’ dodgy knee caved in for keeps, whilst Isaac Abas, Tristan Salerno and Hudson Kerr were patched up by training staff, before returning to the field.

When Mirboo North kicked into a blustering westerly and Riley Oddy, Luke Palmer and Jesse Giardina recorded the opening three goals, it was all sweet meats and sugar plums for the Tigers.

With Abas creating opportunities for Jeremy Salinger, Kerr and Josh Taylor at the stoppages and beyond, Mirboo North was dining out on the Hawks’ inability to slow them down.

Playing coach Clancy Bennett, Dwayne Gunn, Salerno and Daniel Taylor were defending stoutly and productively returning the ball into and through Mirboo North’s midfield.

Kallum Nash, Dom Pinneri and skipper Damien Turner, were others assisting in Mirboo

North’s motivation and determination to get the job done.

The Tigers were combining beautifully as they pushed the ball forward with clean pick ups, educated hand passes and accurate kicks to yellow and black targets.

Woe to report, Giardina, who finished with four majors, was the only Tiger to boot another goal for the remainder of the match.

After its first goal from Ben Draper and four consecutive behinds, Morwell East gathered momentum with second quarter majors to Shaun Barnes, Frank Marks and Lachlan White.

By this stage, the Hawks were strategically outplaying the Tigers overhead and forcing them into undesirable and unproductive disposals from fierce tackles at ground level.

Eric Semmler, John Koopmans, Paul Henry and Matthew Cunninham were beginning to make their presence felt as the Tigers’ authority started to falter.

Almost everywhere, too many Tigers were being trapped like prisoners in a cage with few escape opportunities available.

Overuse of the footy through poor choice hand balling became prominent and opportunities to kick long to position, were overlooked.

Mirboo North had fluffed its use of the wind with unsystematic options containing unstructured systems and brain cloudy decision making processes.

By three quarter time, Morwell East held an 18 point advantage, but Bennett, told his men a preliminary final berth was still up for grabs.

Alas, it wasn’t to be; Giardina’s closing two goals were surpassed by Morwell East through Barnes and a couple of sealers from Frank Marks.

Disorganized forward and defence systems hadn’t helped Mirboo North’s cause.

Afterwards in the change rooms, Bennett’s consoling

address to his glum teammates was drowned out by the happy Hawks next door, whose loud singing, cheering and chanting went on and on and on.

Morwell East can advance to this year’s grand final against Yalloun Yallourn North with a victory in this Saturday’s preliminary final clash against Newborough at Trafalgar.

Reserves

Although the Tigers were behind for most of the game, their work rate was always confronting.

Marcus Webb quickly replied for the Magpies to restore their lead, before Stoertebecker kicked a classy goal on the run from a tight angle for Mirboo North.

Allen added another for the Tigers, but Daniel Webster

immediately replied and Yinnar was only five points down with a few minutes left on the clock.

Finally, Allen kicked his second for the afternoon and Mirboo North’s ninth, to make sure of victory.

The Tigers now play Newborough at Trafalgar in the preliminary final on Saturday.

Thirds

Reigning back-to-back premier, Mirboo North, went down in wet conditions by a goal in the second semi final against Yinnar at Morwell East on Saturday.

The mighty Tigers led at the first change, but trailed by six points at half time.

Mirboo North plays in this Saturday’s preliminary final at Trafalgar.

Mirboo North defiantly defeated Yinnar by 11 points in an exciting first semi final at Willow Grove on Sunday.

Outstanding performers for the winners were Ben Stoertebecker, James Allen, Brendan Weston and Patrick Doyle.

Yinnar used the wind well in the opening quarter by booting 3.3 and restricting the Tigers to three behinds.

Despite outscoring Yinnar in the second term, it wasn’t until a goal from Michael Green in the final quarter, put Mirboo North in front for the first time.

Battered Tigers: you know you’re in finals trouble when several of your key players are patched up when they’re needed at their best. Injuries or none, the Tigers legendary courage failed to ignite and at day’s end they licked their wounds and carried their dented pride back to the den. They will be back refreshed to mount another and stronger campaign in 2017.

Dreaded end: Tristan Salernon is being reined in by a Morwell East player as fellow Tiger Damien Turner runs past and presents an opportunity to hand ball. Choosing not to kick long to position was costly in the first semi final with Mirboo North’s winter of football now a season of discontent: it has bowed out of the competition.

The preliminary final between Morwell East and Newborough will decide who will play Yallourn Yallourn North in the Mid-Gippsland League Grand Final.

SENIORS Morwell East 9.15.69 Mirboo North 6.6.42 Morwell East goals: F. Marks 3, S. Barnes 2, L. White 2, J. Lont 1, B. Draper 1.

Mirboo North goals: J. Giardina 4, L. Palmer 1, R. Oddy 1.

Morwell East best: F. Marks, E. Semmler, J. Koopmans, P. Henry, M. Cunningham, A. Brown.

Mirboo North best: J. Salinger, D. Gunn, J. Giardina, C. Bennett, K. Nash, D. Taylor.

RESERVES Mirboo North 9.12.66 Yinnar 8.7.55 Mirboo North goals: M. Stewart 2, M. Green 2, J. Allan 2, B. Weston 1, B. Stoertebecker 1, N. Gervasi 1.

Yinnar goals: M. Webb 3, E. Suares 2, P. McGrath 1, D. Webster 1, M. Stobbart 1.

Mirboo North best: B. Stoertebecker, J. Allan, B. Weston, P. Doyle, B. Richards, T. Holland.

Yinnar best: D. Webster, D. Giles, R. Malcolmson, B. Taysom, R. Van

Rooy, B. Ross.

THIRDS Yinnar 5.7.37 Mirboo North 4.7.31 Yinnar goals: Z. Cantrill 2, C. Watson 2, M. Renwick 1.

Mirboo North goals: T. Joustra 1, C. Rudling 1, B. Thomson 1, L. Swallow 1.

Yinnar best: R. Flanigan, J. Hibbert, B. Cheffers, M. Renwick, R. Mayo, Z. Cantrill.

Mirboo North best: D. Allen, C. Rudling, J. Hohmann, L. Swallow, K. Wilson, T. Reiske.

FOURTHS Newborough 7.6.48 Mirboo North 4.8.32 Newborough goals: L. Westhorp 6, C. Michie 1.

Mirboo North goals: J. Mason 3, S. Kennedy 1.

Newborough best: L. Westhorp, L. Flahavin, C. Michie, P. Charles, J. Beath, B. Harding.

Mirboo North best: J. Mason, R. Peter, L. Oddy, T. Paterson, L. Stothart, R. Lowrie.

• Gippsland Football League

Leongatha to front Maffra LEONGATHA seniors and reserves will have normal training this week in preparation for its second semi finals at

Morwell this Saturday.

In the seniors it will be Leongatha facing off against Maffra; after the Eagles defeated Traralgon on Saturday by 34 points in the Qualifying Final.

Parrots netball

Elimination finals Sunday, September 4 at Traralgon

Under 13: Leongatha 31 d Moe 25.

Awards: Network Video - Chloe Brown; Baker’s Delight - Milla Fixter.

The girls were all fit and ready to go and they all started well getting a small lead early.

Moe closed the gap by halftime but to our credit we showed great composure to regain the upperhand and come away with the win. It was a great team effort.

Big thanks to all the supporters who came out early to watch the girls, fantastic to see so much green and gold.

Go Parrots.

B Grade: Leongatha 51 d Moe 36.

Awards: RSL - Abby Dowd; Evans Petroleum Georgia Riseley.

What a start to our first final. The girls came out firing and with the support from the crowd proved their spot in the finals.

Solid win with some inspirational play from both attack and defence.

Gippsland netball Qualifying final

A Grade: Traralgon 58 d Moe 44, Morwell 57 d Wonthaggi Power 46.

B Grade: Maffra 47 d Morwell 38, Leongatha 51 d Moe 36.

C Grade: Wonthaggi Power 40 d Sale 33, Moe 58

d Maffra 56.

Under 17: Sale 44 d Drouin 25, Traralgon 42 d Wonthaggi Power 25.

Under 15: Wonthaggi Power 50 d Moe 39, Traralgon 42 d Sale 40.

Under 13: Bairnsdale 34 d Maffra 26, Leongatha 31 d Moe 25.

This match is highly anticipated as these two sides have only met once this season way back in April, the scheduled match at Maffra being abandoned on July 9 due to the state of the ground because of heavy rain and storms. The senior match gets underway at 2.20pm.

In the reserves, Leongatha is facing off against Traralgon, and this match commences at 12.30pm.

In the Under 18’s Leongatha hopes are still alive after defeating Maffra by 22 points in the Elimination Final. The thirds will now play Moe in a

semi final in another must win game at Moe on Sunday at 10.45am.

The Leongatha Under 16’s were well beaten by Traralgon in the Qualifying Final by 43 points but the hopes are still alive for the Parrots as they face off against Sale at Moe on Sunday, the game commencing at 9am.

Wonthaggi Power is still in the hunt in the reserves after downing Drouin by 35 points.

On the netball courts there were mixed results. Wonthaggi Power’s A Grade side went down to Morwell and its season is over. The Parrots B Grade

team is still alive after a win over Moe, while in C Grade the strong Wonthaggi team is in to the second semi final after defeating Sale.

Wonthaggi bowed out in the Under 17’s match but the Under 15 team is now in with a big chance after winning its way into a second semi-final.

The Parrots Under 13 team is still alive after a solid win over Moe. Everyone is urged to head over and support the local teams in both Moe and Morwell this weekend as there’s plenty at stake in both the first and second semi finals.

OTHER MATCHES RESERVES Wonthaggi Power 7.14.56 Drouin 3.3.21 Wonthaggi Power goals: M. Davey 2, R. Tack 2, N. Jones 2, T. Wells 1.

Drouin goals: L. Ferguson 2, S. Proctor 1.

Wonthaggi Power best: K. McCarthy, N. Jones, E. Richards, W. Joplin, T. Landells, M. Davey.

Drouin best: R. Fairlie, J. Gown, B. Miller, N. Burr, L. Ferguson, J. Harper.

UNDER 18 Leongatha 8.11.59 Maffra 5.7.37 Leongatha goals: H. McGannon 2, S. Forrester 1, J. Patullo 1, W. Graeme 1, T. Sauvarin 1, N. Trotto 1, B. Amato 1.

Maffra goals: I. Mosquito 2, H. Holmes 2, S. Whelan 1.

Leongatha best: T. Sauvarin, H. McGannon, K. Cooper, S. Forrester, L. Riseley, J. Patterson.

Maffra best: H. Holmes, I. Mosquito, K. Jones, L. Harrington, M. Dignan, L. Shelton

UNDER 16 Traralgon 12.9.81 Leongatha 5.8.38 Traralgon goals: B. White 4, L. Johnson 3, J. Van Iwaarden 2, F. Shields 2, N. Lowden 1.

Leongatha goals: B. Perry 2, D. Garnham 1, B. Patterson 1, K. Reid 1.

Traralgon best: N. Lowden, B. Cheetham, A. Grant, J. Palmer, B. White, F. Shields.

Leongatha best: C. Olden, B. Patterson, L. Scott, J. Hill, B. Motton, B. Perry.

SENIORS Maffra 11.23.89 d Traralgon 8.7.55 Drouin 10.8.68 d Warragul 7.14.56 RESERVES Traralgon 8.9.57 d Maffra 6.8.44 UNDER 18 Bairnsdale 8.16.64 d Moe 5.10.40 UNDER 16 Sale 8.6.54 d Bairnsdale 5.9.39

FOOTY DRAWS THIS WEEKEND MID GIPPSLAND Preliminary Final at Trafalgar Saturday, September 10 Newborough v Morwell East

GIPPSLAND 2nd Semi Final at Morwell Saturday, September 10 Leongatha v Maffra 1st Semi Final at Moe Sunday, September 11 Traralgon v Drouin

ELLINBANK Preliminary Final at Western Park Saturday, September 10 Nar Nar Goon v Bunyip

Determined: despite being under siege from two Maffra players, Leongatha’s Harrison McGannon is still trying to break through. The Parrot Under 18’s secured a solid win over the Eagles and will now play Moe this Sunday in another must win game.

Photo by Gini Patullo.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

SPORT | NETBALL

tthestar.com.au hestar.com.au Best on court: coach Alyce Wylie was all smiles following her Dalyston A Grade team’s win in the Alberton grand final on Saturday at Meeniyan.

A Grade Premiers: back from left Alana McRae, Alyce Wylie, Jarney Thomas, Britt Thomas, Tess Angarane, team manager Caz Thomas and front from left Jess McRae, Ange Marotta, Hannah McRae, Grace McRae and Gemma Thomas.

B Grade Premiers: Simone Dixon, Alanna Besley, Louise McMeekin, Jude Reynolds, Jess Cook, coach Ange Williams, best on court Jaime-Lee Jeffs, Kerry Gow, Bec Muir and Zoe Archer and young Giants mascots. Photo courtesy of the Foster Mirror.

Determined: Dalyston goaler Britt Thomas put in a brilliant game, shooting her share of goals to secure the premiership win, closely pursued by KB defender Christie Hillberg and watched closely by teammate Hannah McRae.

Thrills and spills: The Alberton league A Grade grand final saw a fast and hard fought tussle between the two top teams Dalyston and Korumburra Bena on Saturday.

Sister act: from left, Ella and Tess Angarane along with Dalyston supporter Hayley Pupetti celebrate Dalyston’s big win in the Alberton A Grade netball grand final on Saturday.

Arms and legs: Korumburra Bena’s Kerryn Gow needs to get the ball down the court, however Foster’s Katie Jones is making things difficult during the B Grade final on Saturday.

Go IK: from left, Inverloch Kongwak supporters Ashlee Cuff, Abbey Dwyer, Daphne Hodge and Asha Boyd Metselaar had a brilliant time cheering on the netballers on Saturday at the grand final in Meeniyan.

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Best on court: in the C Grade final was MDU player Jane Harrison, right. She is pictured with Alberton Football Netball League director of netball operations Leonie McCluskey.

C Grade: premiers MDU, back from left team manager Ally Opray, Wendy McEachern, Sam Rayson, Tarryn Boden, Jane Harrison and Sheree Livingstone. Front from left, Julie Bloch, Hannah Thorson, Karen Wynne and Ella Harris.

Team effort: Dalyston Under 17 captain Anna Kirk and coach Chloe McRae accept the trophy after their win against Korumburra Bena on Saturday, played at the Meeniyan Recreation Reserve.

Under 17: premiers, Dalyston back from left, coach Chloe McRae, Hannah Carew, Anna Kirk, Mea Pitts, Grace McRae and Alana McRae. Front from left, Abbey Kirk, Hayley Busana, Heidi Magro, Chloe Bramley and Gemma Thomas.

Trophy time: MDU Under 15 captains Irene Thorson and Ella Harris and coach Jodie Arnup accept the trophy for winning the grand final on Saturday.

Under 15: premiers MDU, back from left, team manager, Mel Harris, Jasmin Mackie, Elly Jones, Holly McEachern, Jessica Geary and coach Jodie Arnup. Front from left, Irene Thorson, Tomei Dal Pozzo, Ella Harris, Kasey Thorson and Kelly Geary.

Happy days: from left, Inverloch Kongwak Under 13 coach Kelsey Buxton, captain Holly Van Der Pligt and coach Kasey Teakle were pleased to beat Korumburra Bena and take out the premiership on Saturday.

Left, Top show: Inverloch Kongwak Under 13 player Holly Van Der Pligt was presented the trophy for best on court by the Alberton Football Netball League director of netball operations Leonie McCluskey.

Under 13: premiers Inverloch Kongwak, back from left, coach Kasey Teakle, Laynee McKenzie, Jessie Sadler, Holly Van Der Pligt, Mia Scott, Zenna Mann and coach Kelsey Buxton. Front from left, Ella Sadler, Jayla Morcom, Yarra Lynch, Cian Cowdry and Charli Igoe.

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Cheer squad: Fish Creek’s Lucinda Tracy backed her favourite Fish Creek players Red and white: from left, Ella Littlejohn, Sharli Hams and Tanya Turvey cheered on Fish Creek, Carlin Tracy and Owen Straw during Saturday’s grand final clash. that won the Fourths and Seniors premierships on Saturday.

• Alberton FNL Netball Grand Finals

Games build to frenzy of excitement 17 and Under - Premiers Dalyston 13 and Under - Premiers IK Inverloch-Kongwak versus Korumburra- Dalyston versus Korumburra Bena.

KB started strongly taking a 3 to 0 lead early.

Bena.

Dalyston seemed very nervous, dropping passes that would normally make it easily.

Nervous shots for goal were missed.

The court was slippery and KB called injury and interchanged a player.

Dalyston regrouped and made a come back.

The scores were level at quarter time 7 to 7.

The defence in both shooting circles was very tight and it was proving difficult for both teams to get the ball into their respective goals.

“Steady” was being called by both coaches.

The Dalyston GS started to find the ring.

KB continued to find it difficult to get the ball into its circle and its shooters were getting frustrated by the umpire’s decisions and by the tight defence from Dalyston.

Dalyston was 16 to 10 at the break KB made changes to its line-up, working hard to reduce the margin.

Players from both teams were getting very vocal urging their players on.

Umpires continued their quiet control of the game through the noise both off and on the court.

At the final break it was Dalyston 25- 14.

More changes from KB and desperate play was seen from both teams.

Despite the scores, the game was tight.

15 and Under - Premiers MDU Silly mistakes were made by both teams (held balls, Inverloch-Kongwak versus Meeniyan breaking, obstruction).

Dumbalk United.

Despite its best efforts, KB was outplayed by a A slow start to this game too with grand final nerves stronger team on the day. showing.

Dalyston 30 to 19.

MDU came to play and was strong all over the court Best on court: Hannah Carew (Dalyston). and had established a good lead after first quarter 8 to 3.

C Grade - Premiers MDU MDU continued strong netball, tight in defence, getting hands over everything and tipping balls every- Dalyston versus Meeniyan Dumbalk where.

United MDU came out strong and settled into the game MDU GA held strongly in the circle, creating lots of early: it had come to win. space for the two shooters who shot very accurately.

Dalyston clawed its way back into the game and by Strong lead at half time MDU 20 to 10.

MDU came out strong again with its defenders cov- the end of the quarter with some strong shooting by the Dalyston GA it was MDU 9 to 7 ering everything.

Good defence and short sharp passes through the The height in the MDU circle was used to advanCentre saw Dalyston even the scores early. tage.

MDU started to patiently pass the ball in and out of IK had few answers at this stage.

The light rain that fell during the quarter was more the circle for a better shooting position.

Dalyston relied on the high pass into its GA in shootannoying to spectators than the players MDU 27 to 12.

IK was desperate in the opening minutes of the ing circle.

The game on court was very even MDU 19 to 17. fourth quarter and with anxious shots for goal, couldn’t MDU made changes from the bench. capitalise.

Dalyston also made bench and positional changes.

Floating balls were picked off by the MDU defendThe game fell into the pattern of the ball moving up ers.

The MDU GA was everywhere and played a very and down the court.

Missed goals by Dalyston proved costly when the solid game.

This was a David and Goliath victory for MDU in game was so close. the end.

A great victory MDU 31 to 17 Best on court: Irene Thorson (MDU).

A nervous start to the game for both teams.

IK seemed to settle earlier and went to gain a 4 to 0 lead.

KB regrouped later in the quarter.

Good play from both teams with the ball moving up and down the court.

IK in front at the change 7 to 3.

Although both teams were playing good defensive netball, missed goals by KB proved costly as the young IK team turned the ball over.

IK was in control at the long break 14 to 7.

The ball continued to be turned over by both teams during the third.

Despite scoring two goals in a row, inaccurate shooting did not help KB reduce the margin.

IK led by 9 at the next change.

KB made changes to its line-up from the bench but IK proved too strong on the day.

IK used a height advantage all over the court.

Its goalers were very accurate and rebounded strongly when needed.

This was a strong win for IK in the end.

IK 28 to 16.

Best on court: Holly Van Der Plight (IK).

And the a missed goal from MDU was rebounded

by Dalyston - a goal.

MDU managed to goal on the siren and lead 25 to 24.

The game was intense with body on body all over the court and umpires letting the girls contest.

Nobody could take control.

Patient passing into the circle from both teams until a turnover by MDU resulted in a goal and it went one up and then after another turnover, two up.

Dalyston tried desperately, calling for the ball, full time was getting close.

MDU played strongly in defence and managed to valiantly hold on winning by the smallest of margins.

A fantastic game by all.

MDU 35 to 34.

Best on court: Jane Harrison (MDU).

B Grade - Premiers KB Korumburra-Bena versus Foster

The very even open quarter of netball was reflected in the scores 12 to 12.

Early turnovers from both teams but KB began to get the upper hand by opening up the court, driving through the centre court, goaling accurately, picking up loose passes from its opposition and capitalising on these turnovers KB 29 to 11.

Foster made changes to its line-up.

KB continued its dominance all over the court.

Foster had no answers to the KB centre court players who were running strongly through the centre KB 43 to 26.

More changes to the Foster line-up as KB continued its dominance and went on to a very strong win KB 56 to 35.

Best on court: Jamie-Lee Jeffs (Korumburra-Bena).

ing on desperately.

KB managed to slow the game, clawing its way back.

A missed goal from Dalyston was picked off by the KB defenders.

The KB goal attack was shooting confidently and accurately from the edge of the circle.

Dalyston was trying to ‘force’ the ball to its GA. KB came back to within one and perhaps the momentum of the game had changed.

Against the run of play there a late turnover, a goal on the siren and Dalyston was 28 to 25.

It all comes down to this in the end.

There were changes too both teams and KB ‘picked off’ floating balls early to make it back to within one.

The KB goalers seemed to be nervous.

A warning was given to the KB GD. Turnover to KB then a turnover to Dalyston then a turnover to KB. KB was now in front by one and for the first time in this very, very even game.

Back on Centres.

The girls are physically giving it their all.

Nothing is given away without a fight.

A missed goal by KB sees another turnover to Dalyston which seemed to steady a little and then: the full time siren Dalyston 37 to Korumburra Bena 34.

A fantastic, memorable game of netball from both teams.

Best on court: Alyce Wylie (Dalyston).

A Grade - Premiers Dalyston Korumburra-Bena versus Dalyston.

What a game this was, the fifth time these two have met in a grand final.

The large crowd was looking forward to a great game again from these two teams and they were not disappointed.

Dalyston came out strongly but both teams were playing great defence.

Emotions were running high particularly from the supporters as the game was tight and physical.

Dalyston 8 to 6 at the change.

Dalyston swapped its two gaolers and the physical game continued.

Dalyston took advantage of missed KB goals and its two defenders were not giving away anything without a fight.

The Dalyston shooters worked well together with KB trying desperately to ‘slow’ the game down to its own style, 18 to 13.

Changes occurred to both teams with Dalyston hold-

Dalyston fans: Megan Jackson and Willow Dalton from Dalyston were at the Meeniyan Recreation Reserve on Saturday to cheer on the Dalyston Under 17 team.

Dalyston fans: from left, Kiahra Maloney, Mataya Maloney, Charli Go Magpies: from left, Sophie Bolding and Charlotte Bolding from Dellamina and Olivia Bramley were thrilled to see Dalyston pick up Wonthaggi and Ebony Dwyer from Phillip Island were cheering on the Dalyston teams at the grand final on Saturday. some premiership wins on Saturday.

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Premiers: Fish Creek Fourths took out the 2016 premiership with a 70 point win.

• AFNL Fourths Grand Final

Roos dominate FISH Creek’s Fourths took a stunning 70 point win of Inverloch Kongwak in Saturday’s premiership game.

The Fish Creek boys were named minor premiers at the close of the home and away season, and were prepared to play whatever Inverloch Kongwak had to offer in the final clash.

The Kangaroos had control of the game from the first bounce after a fantastic centre clearance from Jai Stefani and a strong mark and great kick from Brady Mitchell, which saw Fish Creek put its first score on the board.

IK moved quickly to try and close down Fish Creek’s forward line, but forward Liam Howard showed off his range of skills to rove the pack and snap another major.

Fish Creek established a 26 point lead in the first quarter and leaving the Sea Eagles scoreless.

Inverloch Kongwak was unable

to gain any ground, with Fish Creek’s first rate pressure, accuracy and discipline dominating. The Sea Eagles got a goal past the premiership favourites – which was kicked by Eden Purnell – but the Kangaroos were sitting on 41 points by the end of the first half.

The half time break only saw the Kangaroos become more focused and fired up, leaving Inverloch to scrape an extra two points while they sailed away to 78 points by the last siren.

“This is what the whole year of practice has been leading up to,” Fish Creek coach Anthony Wilson said.

“We only lost one game to Phillip Island this year and you can see the effort these boys put in. They’ve been working on their fitness and they were raring to go.”

Captain Jai Stefani was named best on ground, which Mr Wilson attributed to his excellent pressure on the ball and his dominating presence on the field.

Leading goal kickers – with three

goals each – Sam Flanders and Brady Mitchell were also listed in Fish Creek’s best players. Sam McGannon, Elii Clark, and Liam Howard were also named.

Inverloch Kongwak’s best players were Thomas Simpson, Aiden Box, Josh Bates, Zach Reid, Chris McLean and Jake Benson.

For many of the Fish Creek Fourths the day wasn’t over and they ran back out again to compete again in the Thirds’ premiership match.

I also think it would be fair to not only complement the players but, also point out the fantastic job done by the Fish Creek coach, Anthony Wilson and his assistant Brett Mitchell to get the team to such a high standard. Also as with all community sporting clubs none of this would have been possible without the huge amount of support from all the other hard working administrators, parents, first aiders and supporters. As team manager I thank you all for your help.

Victory: from left, Fish Creek Fourths players Ayden Wilson, Alex Denbrok and coach Anthony Wilson with up the cup.

Fish Creek 11.12.78 Inverloch-Kongwak 1.2.8 Fish Creek Goals: S. Flanders 3, B. Mitchell 3, J. Standfield 2, L. Howard 2, A. Denbrok Inverloch-Kongwak Goals: E. Purnell Fish Creek Best: J. Stefani, B. Mitchell, S. Flanders, S. McGannon, E. Clark, L. Howard Inverloch-Kongwak Best: T. Simpson, A. Box, J. Bates, Z. Reid, C. McLean, J. Benson

Defence: a handball from Fish Creek’s Josh Standfield is interrupted by Inverloch Kongwak’s Chris McLean.

Down the field: Nathan Denbrok kicks towards Fish Creek’s scoring end with two Inverloch Kongwak defenders looking for a spoil.

Pride: Fish Creek captain and best on ground Jai Stefani is congratulated by his mum Rebecca.

Sprint: Fish Creek’s Nathan Denbrok gets a fast break in the Fourths’ premiership match against Inverloch Kongwak.

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Winners: the Inverloch Kongwak Thirds team was stoked with the 74 point premiership win it took over Fish Creek on Saturday.

• AFNL Thirds Grand Final

Sea Eagles enjoy premiership success FISH Creek could not make it two for two after Inverloch Kong-

wak outplayed it in the Thirds premiership final.

Ten of the Fish Creek Fourths were back out on the field for the second time that day, and were proud to

Celebration: from left, Inverloch Kongwak Thirds coach Shane Bertacco and co-captains Oscar Toussant and Zane Javier accepted the cup from Alberton league president Barry Stride after the premiership win on Saturday.

Pass: Inverloch Kongwak’s Lochie Nunn handballs a pass, under pressure from Fish Creek’s Rhy Pridham.

represent their club.

However, IK was off to a strong start and moved the ball quickly from the first centre bounce.

They scored two quick goals early – the first of which was scored by Lochie Nunn – and kept the momentum up from there.

Fish Creek began to find its rhythm and applied strong defensive pressure.

Toby Redpath led the back line, taking many intercepts and marks.

The Kangaroos started to take control of the game late in the quarter, but could not convert their work into goals.

The quarter time score was IK 21 to Fish Creek 6.

A fairly even contest was played out in the second quarter. Fish Creek was inspired by coach Ray Stefani, who had left hospital that morning to coach the team.

However, IK’s quick centre clearances and fast running resulted in two more goals and the half time score was IK 32 to Fish Creek 13.

The third quarter began with Redpath scoring Fish Creek’s only goal for the quarter, and then IK took control.

IK’s forward line booted

five goals from fast centre clearances and good team play.

The last quarter was a repeat of the third, with IK piling on another four goals and winning convincingly by 74 points.

The final score was IK 95 to Fish Creek 21.

“Three years ago, these guys only won four games.

I am rapt with the attitude and application they had at training all year. It was reflected in the score and the whole team played their roles. They did what I asked them to do and more,” IK coach Shane Bertacco said.

“The defence was fantastic, the midfield was everywhere and the forward line was accurate. There were no selfish players. They were strong and switched on from the start. You could see how focused they were in rooms and it has paid off.”

IK’s co-captain Oscar Toussant was named best on ground.

“He was a leader on the field, his run and carry was extremely good and he had eight score assists,” Mr Bertacco said.

“His defensive work was fantastic and he just plays really skilful football.”

Inverloch-Kongwak 14.11.95 Fish Creek 3.3.21 Inverloch-Kongwak Goals: H. McInnes 4, L. Nunn 2, C. McInnes 2, L. Scott, Z. Caughey, J. Scott, Z. Javier, X. Hughes, O. Toussaint Fish Creek Goals: T. Redpath, B. Rogers, B. Pulham Inverloch-Kongwak Best: O. Toussaint, L. Scott, X. Hughes, J. Scott, A. Toussaint, H. McInnes Fish Creek Best: T. Redpath, B. Rogers, B. Pulham, J. Standfield, B. Mitchell, N. Denbrok

Best on: from left, Inverloch Kongwak Thirds coach Shane Bertacco congratulated Oscar Toussant on his performance out on the field.

Protect: Inverloch Kongwak’s Rory Alford runs in to help teammate Lochie Nunn keep the ball out of the grasps of their Fish Creek opponent.

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What a team: Dalyston Reserves premiership team for 2016; pictured are the players who featured in the win; Jackson Brooker, Harrison Wright, Robert Birnie, Luke Borne, Michael Harris, Aaron Powell, Andrew Gennaccaro, Jake Coldebella, Jack Legione, Nathan Bainbridge, David Pruysers, Samuel Alexander, Michael McCoy, LeeMcRae, Matthew Schreck, Logan West, Jack Sherrin, Dale Brown, Shannon Coldebella, Andrew Wallis, Kris Kerr and Christopher Loughridge. Former team mate, the late Luke Bolding was remembered after the win when the team proudly held up his No. 46 jumper.

• AFNL Reserves Grand Final

Dalyston home in a thriller IN a match which easily could have gone either way, Dalyston got home to win the Reserves premiership by just one point over Inverloch Kongwak.

The result of this contest was tight all day and the winner would only be decided in the final 10 seconds.

A shot for goal off the boot of Dalyston’s Aaron Powell as scores were tied at 7.9 apiece was rushed through for a behind but Inverloch Kongwak could only get the rebound kick-in before the siren sounded.

For Dalyston it makes up for the heartache of losing last year’s reserves premiership but for Inverloch Kongwak the players can be satisfied they left nothing in the tank and took it right up to the Magpies.

Defender Jake Coldebella

was named best for Dalyston with Andrew Gennaccaro in the middle next best, onballer Aaron Powell had a great game while up forward Jackson Brooker was able to convert four of the team’s seven goals.

For Inverloch Kongwak Corey Buxton shone out while Christian Terlich was named the umpire’s best on ground, being awarded the trophy by Ed Hanley.

Dalyston had opened up a 14 point lead at half time but this game really got going in the third term with a stirring comeback by Inverloch Kongwak.

They dominated most of the attack this term but lots of minor scores would prove costly in the end as the Sea Eagles added 2.5 for the quarter to edge in front at the last change by one point.

Matt Miller scored one of IK’s two for the third term

Desperate: players from both Inverloch Kongwak and Dalyston put in their best efforts in a tense grand final. Here Dalyston’s Dave Pruysers is caught in a strong tackle.

with an accurate shot running in. When Barry Withers took a fine mark and goaled for IK it was game on.

With a boot off the ground

by IK’s Ryan Butler it appeared the Sea Eagles had stolen the momentum as it went nine points up.

Dalyston’s Jack Sherrin and Dale Brown combined to get the ball to Luke Borne who scored the Magpies only goal for the last term and scores were tied at 7.9 apiece.

This would remain this way for an agonising seven

minutes and it appeared extra time would need to be played with the siren very close.

There was time for one last charge forward for Dalyston as Aaron Powell gathered, swung around and booted hard towards goal.

Would IK bring the ball back in from the last line or allow the behind? The defender decided to allow the point and give his side one last chance to goal and win the match but unfortunately for the Sea Eagles the siren sounded just seconds later.

Dalyston 7.10.52 Inverloch-Kongwak 7.9.51

Banner breakthrough: the Dalyston reserves boys come ready to play.

Dalyston Goals: J. Brooker 4, R. Birnie, L. Borne, H. Wright Inverloch-Kongwak Goals: B. Withers 2, C. Terlich 2, J. Truman, M. Miller, R. Butler Dalyston Best: J. Coldebella, A. Gennaccaro, A. Powell, J. Brooker, M. Harris, H. Wright Inverloch-Kongwak Best: C. Buxton, C. Terlich, S. Fisher, M. Miller, B. Miller, T. Whelan

Best on ground: Alberton league life member Ed Hanley presented the best on ground trophy in the Reserves to Inverloch Kongwak’s Christian Terlich.

Nailbiter: Dalyston reserves coach Matt Loughridge holds up the reserves premiership cup with, Dale Brown (captain), left, and Shannon Coldebella (vice-captain), right joining in.

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Breaking away: Matt Kreymborg gets another possession for Fish Creek.

In front: Fish Creek’s Callan Park marks on the run.

• AFNL Seniors Grand Final

Fish Creek wins historic flag FISH Creek survived a late Inverloch Kongwak revival to take out the Alberton Football Netball League Seniors flag, the last one before a seven team league comes into play next season.

Fish Creek, set to remain in the smaller league, took out bragging rights to be the best club in the current 12 team competition; winning 6.15.51 to Inverloch Kongwak’s 4.10.34.

It took some time for Fish Creek to settle in to the match with early nerves causing a few easy marks to be spilled.

Indeed it was Inverloch Kongwak that meant business early with two goals in five minutes, both kicked by Adam Cross which lifted the Sea Eagles confidence.

Fish Creek could only score the one goal with Matt Taylor marking well and kicking truly from 45 metres out.

Quarter Time Fish Creek 1.2.8 - Inverloch Kongwak 2.2.14 The second quarter saw Fish Creek start to gain more

control as it settled into the game.

The Kangaroos dominated possession and while it did kick two goals, the team was inaccurate meaning the game was tight on the scoreboard.

Matthew Kreymborg was

providing plenty of options for the Creek. He passed to Gareth Park and he kicked truly. Matt Taylor had chances to convert for Fishy but both shots missed the mark. The Sea Eagles could add only one behind in the second term.

Dylan Clark was playing well in defence for IK alongside Campbell McKenzie while Lewis Rankin was well under notice and showing plenty of run.

Fish Creek added another just before half time and it

was now Fish Creek 3.7.25 to Inverloch Kongwak 2.3.15 The Kangaroos were again strong in the third and had they kicked accurately the match could have been all over with the Sea Eagles looking a little tired after three gruelling finals before this.

At one stage Fish Creek was 4.12 before Kreymborg bobbed up to mark well after a pass from captain Callan Park. Kreyborg, with plenty of marks already, converted twice in short time to put Fishy up by 20 points at three quarter time.

Fish Creek 5.12.42 to Inverloch Kongwak 3.4.22.

With more than a three goal lead going into the last change, the Sea Eagles would need a mighty effort to get up from

here.

But to its credit the Inverloch Kongwak team drew on all its reserves for one last effort.

IK was getting plenty of the ball and drove forward at every chance. It was the Sea Eagles turn to be inaccurate and its 1.6 for the last quarter meant it could really have made more of the opportunities.

Andrew Soumilas scored the one major for IK and at one stage it was only seven points the difference.

In a surprisingly low scoring contest it was Fish Creek that scored the final goal and “the sealer”. Appropriately it was skipper Callan Park who put the icing on a very deserving premiership win.

Fish Creek 6.15.51 Inverloch-Kongwak 4.10.34

Boring in: joint league best and fairest Fish Creek’s Tom Cameron boars in for the ball.

INVERLOCH’s town centre was a sea of blue, white and gold leading into Saturday’s Alberton Football Netball League grand final at Meeniyan thanks to a great initiative of the local Inverloch Kongwak Sea Eagles club

Medal winner: Fish Creek’s Travis Manne receives the Bill Pollock Medal for being best on ground; presented by Stuart Storr.

Cup time: receiving the premiership cup for Fish Creek are, captain Callan Park and AFNL coach of the year, Greg Hoskin.

Team spirit: Inverloch Kongwak went all out to show its pride for the teams vying for premiership glory on Saturday. A lot of time, effort and money went into creating professional signs, which were taped to posts from Inverloch to Meeniyan. These signs acknowledged the help of the members, volunteers, parents and supporters throughout the year, and then went on to name every player, coach, team manager and runner involved directly involved in Saturday’s grand final. Many volunteers were thrilled to see their contribution recognised by the club.

gifting a special decoration pack for local businesses to decorate their shop windows.

Well done IK!!

PARKING was at a premium at the AFNL grand final on Saturday with a huge crowd again at the Meeniyan ground.

THERE was some talk and at times disgust being voiced around the ground about how sad it was the Alberton league next year would be reduced to only seven teams.

Either or: Inverloch youngster Isaac Souren was guaranteed to be pleased with the result of the Senior grand final on Saturday. He was barracking for both Fish Creek and Inverloch Kongwak, because his mum is the IK A Grade netball coach and his dad used to play footy for Fish Creek.

ONE supporter made the suggestion that maybe Fish Creek, with strong teams top to bottom, should apply to the Mid Gippsland League and leave Alberton with six teams!

THE MDU barby crew was flat stick all day feeding the hungry queues at the grand final on Saturday delicious sausages, hamburgers, fresh coleslaw, and yes those tasty fried onions. The Star reporters again give their thumbs up for very friendly service, great food and some good laughs!

Fish Creek Goals: M. Kreymborg 2, G. Park 2, C. Park, M. Taylor Inverloch-Kongwak Goals: A. Cross 2, L. Rankin, A. Soumilas Fish Creek Best: M. Kreymborg, B. Cooper, M. McGannon, L. Pratt, G. Park, R. McGannon Inverloch-Kongwak Best: D. Clark, L. Rankin, C. Mckenzie, A. Cuff, A. Soumilas, D. Reid

GREAT to see such a huge crowd cheering on all the Alberton netball grand finals and the girls didn’t disappoint with exciting matches all round.

The umpires too deserve a pat on the back for their professional job. Well done!

MEENIYAN has turned on another top Alberton grand final, it would be great to see some funding for a grand stand at this venue now.

CROWD behaviour was generally very good on the day and apart from a bit of bad language the crowd generally settled down to enjoy a great day of sport.

Congratulations to all clubs for the great sportsmanship being shown both on and off the field with players shaking hands after the contests and fans barracking hard for their teams.

THE playground was going non-stop at Meeniyan with hundreds of children enjoying the great facility and making the grand final truly a family friendly day.

Club support: Inverloch Kongwak’s supportive props and costumes were second to none at this year’s grand final. With several teams in the mix for premiership glory, the club rallied together to come up with unique ways to show their club pride. Pictured is Billy Soumilas, who was one of many Inverloch Kongwak children running around the Meeniyan Recreation Reserve wearing Sea Eagle heads. Well done to Inverloch Kongwak for creativity.

“THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016 - PAGE 55

Red and white: there was no doubting these two supporters allegiance with Lara Stefani and Ebony Van Dyke show their support for Fish Creek.

Well done: Ashleigh Jordan, left, congratulates senior premiership player for Fish Creek, Brent Cooper.

Backing the boys: the WAGS (wives and girlfriends) and other members of the Fish Creek cheer squad were out in force to show their support for Fish Creek as they await the seniors arrival and the run through of the banner.

Fans: Korumburra girls Kelsey Donohue and Kate Little were at the grand final on Saturday, to cheer on all the Korumburra Bena netball teams.

Honoured: Ashley Geary from Leongatha Primary School sang the Australian National Anthem prior to the Alberton Grand Final at Meeniyan.

Team spirit: Inverloch Kongwak’s supporters were out in force to cheer on the six teams fighting for premiership glory on Saturday. Decked out in yellow and blue were Archie O’Neill, Jimmy O’Neill, Callum O’Flynn, Jobe Scapin, Max Scott, Isaac Seuren, Joe Soumilas, Billy Soumilas, Fred Soumilas, Oscar Malcolm, Amaya Malcolm, Daisy Soumilas, Marlie Box and Shea Griffin.

Winter wellies: from left, Fish Creek supporters Lucy Parks, Elysia Shaw and Haley Watkins were ready for any grand final weather with their red and white gumboots, ponchos and umbrella.

Super fans: Saturday’s MDU netballers had their own cheer squad, back from left Isabella Mackie, Jada Davey, Kirra Jones, Scott Mackie, Zara Jones and Ella Lafferty. Front from left, Tyson Harris, Shari Harris and Tahlia Lafferty.

Burger man: MDU chef extraordinaire Gary Davison was cooking up a burger storm on Saturday, for the Alberton Football Netball League grand final at the Meeniyan Recreation Reserve.

Onion with that: cooking up a storm for MDU on the barbecue were, from left, Danny Forrester, Tony Blake and Phil Hutcheson.

Go Dalyston: from left, Ruby and Millie Brosnan wore matching jumpers in support of their favourite team at the grand final on Saturday.

Prime seats: from left, Ash Peterson, Deb Griffin and Clare Peterson found the perfect spot along the boundary line to cheer on the Inverloch Kongwak footballers at Saturday’s grand final.

Start them young: Elly Egan from Leongatha, Lauren Redpath from Stony Creek and baby Wade Arnup from Leongatha were cheering on the MDU netball girls on Saturday in the grand finals.

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR” Tuesday, September 6, 2016

No walk in the park FAMILIES are the fabric of every football club; that is no different for the Park family of Buffalo.

Dad Neil Park is a board member of the Alberton Football Netball League, his sons Callan Park

(captain), Ethan Park and Gareth Park all featured in Saturday’s premiership team for victorious senior side Fish Creek. And of course then there’s mum Veronica who does untold amounts of work for the club on the sidelines-What a team!

The Alberton Football Netball League Grand Final reached an exciting climax on Saturday in Meeniyan with Fish Creek taking out the premiership for 2016; Fish Creek 6.15.51 to Inverloch Kongwak’s 4.10.34. Full coverage inside today’s Star Sport.

We did it: from left, Veronica, Gareth, Callan, Neil and Ethan Park with the 2016 premiership cup won by Fish Creek on Saturday.