Western Port News 15 April 2020 by Mornington Peninsula News Group

Western Port

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5974 9000 or email: team@mpnews.com.au www.mpnews.com.au THIS powerful owl that resides in the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria’s Cranbourne gardens is likely to be enjoying plenty of undisturbed sleep. The gardens, at the corner of Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, are now closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Picture: Gary Sissons

Going wild at home ALTHOUGH wildlife parks are closed, children should not forget they are surrounded by wildlife. A competition being run by Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, Pearcedale asks school-aged students to look around their backyard, home or balcony to discover and photograph wildlife. For a chance to win one of four $100 Moonlit Sanctuary gift vouchers children should go to the website and upload their best photos along with one fact about the creature in their picture. The competition runs until 5pm, Friday 21 April. Winners will be announced Monday 24 April. Details: moonlitsanctuary.com.au/ backyard-wildlife-photo-competition

Fears of rise in family violence Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au A DROMANA woman who has been volunteering as a family violence victim’ advocate for the past three years fears enforced isolation because of the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to an increase in abuse. Geraldine Bilston said isolated living, less contact with people outside their homes, financial pressures and unforeseen stresses could mean “we

are now bracing for an increase in domestic violence on the Mornington Peninsula”. As a survivor of domestic violence who fled with her daughter from a “man we should have been able to trust and feel safe with”, Ms Bilston said she experienced many forms of family violence. “He ran us off the road in his car a day after I escaped the relationship,” she said. “Before I left I was physically assaulted and abused after enduring years of emotional abuse, which had been es-

calating during our relationship.” Her attacker was initially charged with assault causing serious harm, several breaches of an intervention order, and conduct endangering lives. “However, his lawyer got a plea deal with the police prosecutor where he pleaded guilty and the charges were downgraded to general assault, one charge of persistently breaching an IVO, and dangerous driving,” she said. Through her role as an advocate, Ms Bilston said many women were messaging her and disclosing emotional

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abuse and controlling behaviours occurring within their relationships. “As we move further and further into isolation, with heightened stress and tension, I worry about how these abusive partners and situations are going to escalate,” she said. Ms Bilston said that as a community “we have to stay physically distanced [but] we should remain socially connected to one another – particularly with those we know who are vulnerable, including people we care for that we know or suspect may be experienc-

ing forms of family violence”. “This includes our family, friends and our neighbours. Stay vigilant, stay in contact via telephone/social media/ the internet, and check in regularly with these people,” she said. Recent statistics show an increase of 75 per cent of Google searches on domestic violence in NSW. “There are several articles floating around about this statistic,” she said. “Unfortunately, I have not seen anything released on Victorian statistics as yet.” Continued Page 8

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Free solar and battery webinar Free advice for reducing power bills and improving energy efficiency is available to Mornington Peninsula residents. It’s thanks to a new partnership between Mornington Peninsula Shire and the Australian Energy Foundation (AEF). Residents who are curious about solar power can join our online webinar on Thursday 16 April, 6pm-7.30pm. Find out which system suits your household best, how to avoid the pitfalls and ask questions during the webinar via chat. Individual solar consultations with an AEF expert are available to any attendees who have more questions they would like answered.

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Picture: Gary Sissons

Patients allowed one visitor a day PATIENTS at Frankston Hospital are restricted to seeing one visitor a day due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Revised Peninsula Health guidelines last week included restricting the number of visitors and making it mandatory for all visitors entering the hospital to have their temperature checked. Current guidelines for visitors to Frankston Hospital: • No visitors are permitted entry to the intensive care unit (ICU), Ward 5GN and the acute medical surgical unit (AMSU). • Patients allowed one visitor a day. • Visiting hours are 4pm to 8pm (except maternity and paediatrics). • No visitors under 16 years.

• •

Visitors feeling unwell are not permitted. Anyone picking up a discharged patient must wait outside the building. • All visitors will have their temperature checked before entering the building. • No one is permitted to visit if they have returned from overseas in the past 14 days. A Peninsula Health statement said “exceptions to visiting rules will apply in special circumstances – speak with the patient’s healthcare team”. “Our dedicated health care teams are doing their best to keep you and your loved ones safe and well. Please be considerate and kind to our staff.”

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Western Port News

15 April 2020

Call for test clinic on peninsula Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au JOHN Zacek admits that he has been a bit short tempered when dealing with staff at the office of Flinders MP Greg Hunt. But he attributes his anger to the “purely political” responses he received from Mr Hunt’s office when expressing frustration at the lack of a testing site for COVID-19 on the Mornington Peninsula. The closest “respiratory clinic” is at Frankston Hospital, a distance Mr Zacek sees as being too far away for the peninsula’s population of more than 167,000, especially the nearly 40,000 aged over 65. When asked by The News for comment on Mr Zacek’s concerns, Mr Hunt’s office gave the same response as it had sent to him: there were 188 respiratory clinics around Australia “assisting to assess patients with COVID-19 like symptoms”. Locations were chosen by the health department after advice from state health departments “and hospital districts like Peninsula Health”. Mr Hunt’s office also provided Mr Zacek with the coronavirus hotline (1800 675 398), said he could visit www.australia.gov.au and explained how the government was continuing to “invest heavily” to combat the pandemic. Mr Hunt said social distancing rules still applied to anyone holidaying on the peninsula. “We must continue to practice social distancing and stay home as much as

JOHN Zacek says the Mornington Peninsula’s large population of “oldies” deserves a COVID-19 testing clinic.

we can to flatten the curve and reduce the spread of coronavirus,” Mr Hunt said. Mr Zacek was annoyed that Mr Hunt did not specifically respond to his concerns that there was no COVID-19 testing clinic on the peninsula. His concern arose two weeks ago

when he learned that the peninsula had the second highest number of recorded COVID-19 cases of any Victorian municipality. The fact that the electorate of Mr Hunt - who is also federal health minister - covers the peninsula (and French Island) was not lost on Mr

Zacek. Although the peninsula by last week had dropped to having the fifth highest number of COVID-19 cases, Mr Zacek remained angry that testing was only available at Rosebud Hospital if people were very unwell. “I am 74 later this year and live

by myself on the border of Rye and Blairgowrie. What happens if I come down with the virus and need to be tested?” He stated in a letter to Mr Hunt. “Frankston hospital is almost an one hour away. I have been diagnosed with expanded lungs and am on a puffer [for treatment of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]. “I will need to drive on Peninsula Link or Point Nepean Road or the old highway to get to Frankston. If I have some sort of episode or reaction while driving, lose control of the car and cause an accident and kill somebody, what then? A ringing of hands by the politicians?” Mr Zacek said he was not alone in his situation. In the lead up to Easter he had noticedan an increase in people walking along his street, which had many houses that were short term rentals. “This extra inflow of people will increase the potential of the virus spreading, so why no closer testing centre than Frankston Hospital … or does the federal government consider us "oldies" expendable?” Mr Zacek is “living in hope” that a testing site would be established on the peninsula.

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PAGE 3

NEWS DESK

Frankston High School

Anzac Day to be spent at home

2021 Enrolment Information and School Tours

ALL public Anzac Day events on the Mornington Peninsula, including services and marches, have been cancelled due to COVID-19. The decision was made in line with Returned Services League Victoria and the state government’s decision to cancel Anzac Day commemorative services and marches, Saturday 25 April. The RSL is asking that people stand in their yards, driveways, or on their balconies and observe a minute’s silence as the Last Post is played during the Anzac Day dawn service. The service will be streamed online at RSL Victoria’s Facebook page at 6am, and those taking part are encouraged to share a picture of themselves paying their respects to veterans with the hashtag #standto. Due to the current medical emergency, RSL Victoria will confirm closer to the day whether the dawn service will be televised live. “While it is very disappointing to everyone that our local Anzac Day events have been cancelled, our priority right now is to protect the most vulnerable members of our community, many of whom are veterans,” Mornington Peninsula mayor Cr Sam Hearn said. “However, we must all still take the time to stop on Anzac Day and remember with gratitude in our hearts those who’ve made incredible sacrifices for others during past moments of conflict and crisis. “It is more important than ever to check in with our elderly and vulnerable, and so I urge our community to take extra care of each other in the lead up to, and after, Anzac Day.” Details: mornpen.vic.gov.au/ANZAC or facebook.com/rslvic

A learning culture money cannot buy

Frankston High School has an outstanding reputation as a high performing school, particularly in the areas of academic achievement, music and sport. Prospective parents are encouraged to attend an information session and tour of the school on the following dates: • • • • •

Wednesday 22 April Friday 24 April Monday 27 April Tuesday 28 April Thursday 30 April

All tours start at 9.15am Performing Arts Theatre

7.00pm Thursday 30 April

Information evening for parents unable to attend morning sessions.

They are a bit stunned. Some may have jobs to go back to, but they are not sure if they will be getting payments in the meantime,” manager Stuart Davis-Meehan said. The centre has changed from a face-to-face service to over the phone to conform to social distancing and stay-at-home rules. Assistance includes support and a “listening ear”, information about what local help is available, and material help with things like food, prescriptions, phone cards, and some limited financial assistance. The centre has also identified vulnerable people who they have helped in the past and arranged to deliver food parcels to them. Anyone experiencing difficult times should call 5975 1644 to discuss how they can get help. Opening hours are 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday.

Monkey bike caught A MAN was caught riding on a monkey bike last week in Langwarrin. Somerville Highway Patrol officers spotted the bike travelling towards BP Langwarrin on 8 April. They followed the rider to the BP where the bike was eventually parked. Police impounded the bike (pictured below) and found that the driver was unlicensed. A summons is pending for the 19-year-old rider.

Community in need PEOPLE suddenly finding themselves without jobs and income due to the coronavirus pandemic are turning to Mornington Peninsula Community Information and Support for help. “We are getting calls from people who have suddenly lost their jobs and have no money.

Bookings are required for all tours via our website: www.fhs.vic.edu.au

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TREATED PINE POLES 75-100x1.8mt ...................................... $6.75ea 75-100x2.4mt .................................... $10.50ea 75-100x3.0mt ..................................... $12.75ea 75-100x3.6mt ..................................... $16.50ea 100-125x1.8mt ..................................... $9.95ea 100-125x2.4mt ................................... $14.50ea 100-125x3.0mt ................................... $20.50ea 100-125x3.6mt ................................... $24.75ea 100-125x2.4mt Splits .......................... $11.75ea

OBHW F8 50x25 ................................................... $1.25mt 75x38 ................................................... $2.95mt 125x38 ................................................. $4.95mt

MDF CRAFTWOOD 2400x1200x3mm ................................ $11.00ea 2400x1200x6mm ................................ $18.00ea 2400x1200x9mm ................................ $24.00ea 2400x1200x12mm .............................. $27.00ea 2400x1200x16mm .............................. $33.00ea 2400x1200x18mm .............................. $36.00ea

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Western Port News

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PINE LINING 140x12 VJ/Regency .............................. $2.25mt 140x19 VJ/Floor.................................... $3.50mt

PINE DAR STD GRADE 42x19 ................................................... $1.25mt 70x19 ................................................... $1.75mt 90x19 ................................................... $2.25mt 120x19 ................................................. $2.65mt 140x19 ................................................. $3.00mt 190x19 ................................................. $4.50mt 240x19 ................................................. $6.75mt 290x19 ................................................. $8.50mt 140x12 ................................................. $2.15mt

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Yellow Tongue 3600x800mm ............... $42.50ea Plyfloor 2.4x1.2x15mm ........................ $66.50ea

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2400x500 Slat Type ............................. $30.00ea

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S/Bevel 42x15 ...................................... $1.10mt S/Bevel 67x15 ...................................... $1.45mt S/Bevel 67x18 ...................................... $1.50mt L/ Tongue 67x18 ................................... $1.50mt L/ Tongue 92x18 ................................... $2.20mt L/ Tongue 140x18 ................................. $3.25mt B/nose 67x18 ....................................... $1.50mt B/nose 92x18 ....................................... $2.20mt

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T/PINE FASCIA PRIMED 190x30 D&G... .................................... $11.00mt 230x30 D&G... .................................... $19.50mt

PINE MGP10 70x35 Long .......................................... $2.55mt 70x45 Long ...........................................$3.30mt 90x35 Studs ......................................... $2.40mt 90x35 Long .......................................... $2.60mt 90x45 Studs ......................................... $3.15mt 90x45 Long ...........................................$3.60mt

PINE MERCH 90x35 ................................................... $1.65mt 90x45 ................................................... $2.40mt

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Extra time to strike a viable budget News 31/3/20). Under the draft budget property rates will rise by 2 per cent, in line with a cap imposed by the state government, providing the shire with $191.6 million towards an overall predicted income of $244.9m, $8m less than the previous year. Rural living rates will drop by 6 per cent. Mr Somyurek’s municipal budgets’ announcement did not address calls by the state Opposition for councils to offer rate relief or a rate freeze “to distressed households right now”. “The state government must help councils with any loss of revenue so that the important role of councils can continue uninterrupted during these unprecedented times,” the Opposition’s local government spokesperson Tim Smith said. Mr Smith said municipalities were responding to COVID-19 pandemic “through emergency management provision”. Mornington Peninsula Shire last week handed extra powers to CEO John Baker while reducing the number of scheduled council meetings (“CEO powered up for emergency” The News 7/4/20). Mr Baker is now able to make some decisions usually made by councillors, although there are limits on the authority he has regarding spending and policy making.

Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au

SOUNDBAR proprietors Erin Moore and Nick Martin with children Morrison, 6, India, 7 and Frankie. Picture: Yanni

Family in limbo from sounds of silence THE day the music died for Erin Moore was also the day that she realised the precarious situation her family was facing. Ms Moore and her partner Nick Martin run the Soundbar in Rosebud which, like other venues, has had to close its doors in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. The couple live in a residence attached to the venue. Ms Moore is waiting in “the virtual JobSeeker line” for Centrelink payments while Mr Martin, is ineligible for government help because he is a Canadian citizen on a 482 visa. The couple has been “saving every dollar for the outrageously priced partnership visa”, but

that has become a distant hope. “We were so close,” Ms Moore said. “Everyone keeps saying we’re in this together, but it’s hard to keep positive when decisions are being made without any thought as to who they might affect. “I want nothing more than to open the Soundbar’s doors again. Welcome our first customer. Book a band and sit back and watch the workplace that we created with so many, many years of hard work.” Meanwhile, the Soundbar is providing an online platform for musicians to play from their lounge rooms on Tuesday nights. Keith Platt

THE state government has told Mornington Peninsula Shire it can take an extra two months to adopt its 2020/21 budget. If the shire decides to accept the offer, the budget will now need to be adopted by 31 August instead of 30 June and the annual report by 30 November, instead of 30 September. Last week’s announcement of extended times for adopting budgets by Local Government Minister Adam Somyurek appears to have caught the shire and other municipalities by surprise. The new budget deadline came after the shire had released its draft budget for pubic comment by 23 April, with the budget scheduled to be considered at council’s 6 May meeting (“Budget balance to be hit by virus” The News 7/4/20). Mr Somyurek said the “small change” in the budget’s deadline was made in response to requests from councils. The draft budget released by the shire does not include any of the ongoing and extensive measures it has taken to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (“Crisis backing for business” The

Stranded yachtsman airlifted to safety he could be winched to safety. The Tasmanian man ran aground at about 7.30pm after setting off from Williamstown on Wednesday on the return voyage home. Water Police heard his mayday call over the radio and led a coordinated response alongside volunteer agencies Coast Guard and Southern Peninsula Rescue.

A YACHTSMAN rescued off Corsair Rock near Portsea last week had to jump into the water before he could be winched to safety. Swinging masts on the stranded yacht posed a safety hazard to the rescue chopper’s winch line, Thursday 9 April. A police Air Wing crewman lowered into the water directed the skipper, 67, to jump clear so

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PAGE 5

NEWS DESK

Western Port

Proudly published by Mornington Peninsula News Group Pty Ltd

PHONE: 03 5974 9000 Published weekly. Circulation: 15,000

Journalists: Stephen Taylor, Brodie Cowburn 5974 9000 Photographers: Gary Sissons, Yanni Advertising Sales: Bruce Stewart 0409 428 171 Real Estate Account Manager: Jason Richardson 0421 190 318 Production/Graphic design: Marcus Pettifer, Danielle Espagne Group Editor: Keith Platt 0439 394 707 Publisher: Cameron McCullough REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Peter McCullough, Stuart McCullough, Andrew Hurst, Craig MacKenzie. ADDRESS: Mornington Peninsula News Group PO Box 588 Hastings 3915 Email: team@mpnews.com.au Web: www.mpnews.com.au DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: 1PM ON THURS 16 APRIL 2020 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: WED 22 APRIL 2020

Local news for local people

We stand as the only locally owned and operated community newspaper on the peninsula. We are dedicated to the belief that a strong community newspaper is essential for a strong community. We exist to serve residents, community groups and businesses and ask for their support in return.

To advertise in Western Port News contact Bruce Stewart on 0409 428 171 or email bruce@mpnews.com.au Western Port

Milestone for childhood sweethearts AN “iconic” Mornington couple who have contributed to their community over the past 50 years will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Thursday 23 April. Noel and Pauline Scott were planning a big lunch but, as dictated by COVID-19, it will be a quiet affair. “They have had to cancel,” daughter Julie Oldenburger said. “They are 81 and 83 and so are in the highest risk category.” The couple met at Albury when they were children and married at that city’s St Patrick’s Church, 23 April 1960. Mr Scott was in the Australian Army for 35 years, beginning as a 16-year-old apprentice electrician at Balcombe Army Camp, Mount Martha. He and Pauline lived in army camps throughout South Australia and Victoria, and looked forward to being back together when Mr Scott was serving in the Vietnam, Malaysia and Borneo campaigns. He returned to Balcombe as an instructor in 1971. By then the couple had three children and had settled in Mornington. Ms Scott worked as a hairdresser and then cleaner at Tanti Park Primary School for 25 years. The couple has been involved in the community, especially Beleura Junior Football Club, St Macartans and Mornington netball clubs and Mornington Football Club where Ms Scott ran the canteen and Mr Scott was president for several years in the 1980s. Daughter Julie Oldenburger said her father’s commitment to the club

NOEL and Pauline Scott on their wedding day, above, are about to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary.

continues and he is timekeeper at all games. “He is devastated, as many are, that he won’t see his beloved Bulldogs play this season [because of the COVID-19 crisis],” she said. “He also shares the disappointment

of his fellow veterans that he won’t be able to attend the dawn service and march on Anzac Day.” Both are still very fit. “Dad [usually] goes to the gym twice a week with other ex-servicemen, but can’t at the moment. “My sister and brother and I are visiting them to help out and do their shopping.” Ms Oldenburger said the couple had been “wonderful parents to three children and surrogate parents to many others over the years. They are also dedicated and adored grandparents of six children. “Like everyone else unable to celebrate special occasions this year, we are disappointed our family can’t share this special time with them, but they are avid readers of the Mornington News so this tribute would really add to the occasion.” Stephen Taylor

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5983 1021 backinmotion.com.au/balnarring PAGE 6

Western Port News

15 April 2020

Here’s to Easter, from a distance IT was pre-Easter drinks in the time of the coronavirus last Thursday (9 April) for a community of apartment dwellers in Mornington. Residents of the former Sisters of Mercy Convent, in Tanti Avenue, toasted and cheered each other from their balconies. John Scott said the “coming out” was organised by Helen Begg, who has lived in the heritage listed building for the past 11 years.

“She arranged for us to come out onto our balconies for a drink and a chat, at a distance, of course,” Mr Scott said. “Easter to some is church or a holiday break with family, but this year we’re all at home.” Mr Scott said the former convent provided “a very happy environment” with residents regularly getting together for social drinks, but never one quite like Easter 2020.

Cheers: Sandra and Graeme Pimlott raise a toast to a unique Easter and are joined by neighbours and other residents of their apartment block in Mornington, including Billy and Irene Adams, Deb DeBelle and Richard and Robyn Thorpe. Picture: Gary Sissons

More money to be spent on Yacht Club building Brodie Cowburn brodie@mpnews.com.au MORE ratepayer money is set to be poured into the Yacht Club building on the Frankston foreshore. The building has become a troublesome project for council, with the site sitting mostly vacant since 2016 despite upwards of $11 million of ratepayer’s money being spent on works. In Frankston Council’s draft annual budget for 2020/2021, which was endorsed on 30 March, it was agreed that an additional $1.5 million in ratepayer money would be spent to refit the building. The refit will accommodate the Frankston Coast Guard, who will move into the bottom

floor of the building. Council’s preferred option was to move the Coast Guard into a new facility at Oliver’s Hill. $8 million had been committed by council to that project, but the funding was later withdrawn after neither the state or federal government supported the plan (“Coast Guard move to Yacht Club ticked off”, The Times, 21/10/19). The decision to move the Coast Guard into the building came after negotiations to lease out a bottom floor section of the building failed in August last year. Combustible cladding was also found inside the building last year. The $1.5 million will be mostly funded through the council’s reserves. The draft budget will go out to community consultation until 4 May before being sent back to council for final approval.

An important message from the Victorian Government

STAGE 3 RESTRICTIONS ARE NOW IN PLACE. That means there are only four reasons to be out.

Shopping for food and supplies that you need.

Exercise.

Medical care and caregiving.

Work and education – if necessary.

Stay informed at coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Western Port News

15 April 2020

PAGE 7

NEWS DESK

Fears of violence increase

Just leave: Geraldine Bilston has a simple message for anyone undergoing family violence. She urges our community to better support victims. Pictures: Supplied

Continued from Page 1 Other articles, from overseas, highlight alarming increases in domestic violence, especially in countries where much harsher isolation rules are being enforced: Intolerable living conditions are resulting in unprecedented abuse. Victims are neither being seen nor heard. “I have been advocating for change for three years and, at the start of this year, joined the Victim Survivor Advisory Council which gives people with a lived experience a voice in family violence reform, improvements to services and support initiatives,” Ms Bilston said. She has “never felt more grateful for the safe and happy home” she and her daughter are isolating in. “But I am

also absolutely heartbroken and sick with worry for those who do not have the same,” she said. “I would like to encourage anyone who may be experiencing family violence to stay connected to other people outside of home. Try to create a safe world with someone close to you to go to if you need to escape in a hurry. Also, reach out to support agencies, however, you are able, whether that be by phone or online,” she said. Ms Bilston recommended Orange Door at Frankston and Safe Steps as places of refuge, comfort and advice. “By all accounts these services are brilliant,” she said. If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence and/or sexual abuse call 1800 737 732.

Picture: Gary Sissons

Three-year financing for biosphere THE federal government is giving the Western Port Biosphere $300,000 over the next three years, matching the money provided by the organisation’s five member municipalities: Mornington Peninsula, Frankston, Casey, Bass and Cardinia. The Western Port Biosphere Reserve is recognised by UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program and the money will support the its aim of “balancing conservation and sustainable development within the region”. The biosphere’s new chair, Jo McCoy, said the federal government money “shows a real partnership between these levels of government”. “Few Australians can say that they live in a UNESCO biosphere reserve, but we can. The peninsula and the wonderful Western Port environment, including the Ramsar wetlands and the endangered international migratory bird species that live here, should be a continuing source of pride for us all,” she said.

The money would help the biosphere “work even more closely with our community to educate people about the biosphere and bring many more people into caring for it”. Flinders MP Greg Hunt said the biosphere would adopt a “multidisciplinary approach” towards communicating with groups and communities “on the need to protect the region”. “This will include forums and seminars to help increase community understanding of the development pressures on mammals, waterbirds and marine species,” he said. The biosphere’s executive officer, who is also named Greg Hunt, said the money would help the biosphere develop projects “to explore how we might answer the fundamental question of how we meet human needs without damaging the environment on which we and all other species depend”. Wetlands within the biosphere are covered under the Ramsar Convention which is subject to Australian migratory bird agreements with China, Japan and Korea.

Stay connected during COVID We’re working hard to keep our community connected, despite the temporary closure of our libraries and gallery. Libraries Our website has a new Social Hub, featuring a feast of online activities found on the eLibrary page: • Training and resources to move your business online and take it to the next level • Wellness advice and ideas for keeping kids busy.

If you have a child in Grade 5 and would like them to attend Padua College from Year 7 2022, enrolments open on Monday 2 March 2020.

Year 7 2022 Enrolments

Enrolments close Friday 15 May 2020.

Visit our website to enrol online or to book a school tour

For enquiries, please contact the Registrar on 5978 2701 or email enrolments@padua.vic.edu.au

www.padua.vic.edu.au PAGE 8

Western Port News

15 April 2020

There’s also a huge range of free eBooks, eAudiobooks, videos and online courses including business, computing and art and craft. For youngsters we’ve launched a twice weekly story time session livestreamed on Facebook on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11am.

For details: ourlibrary.mornpen.vic.gov.au mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au artsandculture.mornpen.vic.gov.au 5950 1000

Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery We have created fun online art and activities and virtual exhibitions.

Don’t miss out on any new online opportunities. Visit our websites and sign up to to receive regular e-newsletters. For more tips on how to stay connected visit: mornpen.vic.gov.au/ stayconnected

Western Port

property

PALATIAL ENTERTAINER PAGE 3 WEDNESDAY 15th APRIL 2020

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An open letter to our community We are facing an unprecedented set of events that have shaken the economy and confidence to the core. Families and businesses are facing times never faced before. If you are going through a tough time, we are here to help. We want you to know that we are here for you. We are here to listen and assist you in any way we can. We are here to help solve the problems you may face. We are here to support members of our community so you can get through this. We wish for you and your families to keep healthy during these times. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s keep working together, care for each other, but most of all stay positive. We will support you every step of the way. Yours faithfully,

Robert Bowman â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bowman and Company If you need a chat, please call me directly on 0417 173 103 or email me on robert@bowmanandcompany.com.au

bowmanandcompany.com.au mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 15th April, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 2

ON THE COVER

LAVISH STYLE WITH SUPERB BESPOKE FEATURES THROUGHOUT BOASTING resort class living this sublime estate sprawls across a magnificent 5476 square metres to provide endless enjoyment for the largest of families. Part of an exclusive enclave off Overport Road, this leafy setting features lush manicured gardens and beautiful deciduous trees, with an incredible list of outdoor facilities destined to keep every one fit and happy. Opening to the right of the wide entry foyer is a stunning formal lounge and dining area with enchanting bay window and gas log fire. Handsome polished timber floors set the tone which is ably matched by the exquisite drapes and feature lighting.

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entertaining pavilions. Completing the ground floor in fine style is a home office, set to the left of the foyer, and the sumptuous master bedroom which features a walkin wardrobe and ensuite bathroom. Upstairs is a third sensational living area with space for a pool table and a theatre room for the ultimate teenagers retreat. There are four more excellent bedrooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; three have their own ensuite, and all have built-in robes. Adding great versatility to a property already overflowing with options is a separate self-contained one bedroom which adjoins the master bedroom in the north wing of the ground floor.n

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mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 15th April, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 3

‘a lifestyle village for the over 50’s’ 249 High Street, Hastings, 3915 www.peninsulaparklands.com.au

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To arrange your site inspection contact David Nelli 0403 111 234 or at the office on 5979 2700 Email: david@peninsulaparklands.com.au mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 15th April, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 4

We Can Do It!

But Mornington

Needs You! Support Mornington businesses from home! Contact us for an EFTPOS card which can be used in any Main Street Mornington business now, or after the virus has subsided. This is a great gift idea, or it could be money you put aside until we are able to frequent shops again. Either way you will be helping to #supportmornington.

For details contact us at info@morningtonchamber.com.au

What you can do Connect online FB + IG @mainstreetmornington #mainstreetmornington Main Street Market FB + IG @mainstreetmarketmornington Website mainstreetmornington.com.au #supportmornington

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mainstreetmornington.com.au #supportmornington Western Port News

15 April 2020

PAGE 13

LETTERS

Letters - 300 words maximum and including full name, address and contact number - can be sent to The News, PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or emailed to: team@mpnews.com.au

Planning minister should take over airfield planning David Line’s letter made for entertaining reading, albeit mostly inaccurate and containing a scurrilous and unjustified attack on the Peninsula Aero Club and its members (“Apology required” 31/3/20). It was interesting that despite his attack, he fully supports PAC’s contention that it has all necessary planning permits in place to continue its lawful operations. Which again begs the question: Will Mornington Peninsula Shire CEO John Baker hold anyone to account for issuing unwarranted stop work notices to the airfield and for the shire being found to have acted “unlawfully” (VCAT’s description, not mine) in the recent successful planning appeal by PAC? Will he continue to allow shire staff to waste ratepayers’ money in this ongoing vendetta against the Tyabb airfield? Another planning appeal is scheduled in VCAT against the “church hour” curfew imposed by the shire on the airfield. Why is the shire trying to enforce a curfew in favour of a church that closed nearly 50 years ago? VCAT will have the final say, but I believe there’s a very good chance that it will make another finding against the shire. Will VCAT again find that the shire has acted unlawfully by trying to impose unwarranted additional planning permit conditions? And if so, what action does Mr Baker plan to take to stop this behaviour by some staff and councillors? In my opinion, the shire has continually demonstrated incompetence with respect to the Tyabb airfield and related town planning matters. It is now clear that the shire’s responsibilities for airfield planning decisions must be terminated immediately and planning powers revert to the planning minister. We cannot risk the viability of this vital strategic regional and community asset by entrusting its future to shire councillors and staff who

appear to be pursuing their own agenda to close the airfield at the expense of ratepayers. Eric Collier, Somerville

Blessed relief It was a major relief for all Australians of reasonably balanced thinking that on 7 April legal history was made by the presiding judges of the High Court to unanimously quash [what I regarded as] false trumped-up charges against Cardinal George Pell. This persecution emanated unceasingly from a small group from various stratas in public life, including the legal, political, tertiary and, of course, the desperately seeking “I want to get noticed” dullards in the media. Schadenfreude is their game. Maureen Federico, Frankson South

Rights of refugees Refugees do have the legal right under international law to seek asylum here as Australia is a signatory to the relevant international conventions and our policies now involve serious human rights breaches (“Orderly migration” Letters 1/4/20). I see the views expressed by Michael Long as being typical of the ill-informed, prejudiced view of far too many Australians - especially bearing in mind that most of us here in Australia live in relatively privileged circumstances. Does he realise that more than 90 per cent of those who arrive by boatare are confirmed to be refugees? Of the many more who arrive by air and who are not subjected to the same denigration and restrictions, the figure for those who qualify as refugees is only around 40 per cent. What would he do if his own family and children were faced with persecution, including being trapped in a war zone or facing starvation?

In for the long haul: Two kayakersbrave the muddy sediment of the Balcombe Creek Estuary, Mount Martha in pursuit of deeper water in the channel. Picture: Gary Sissons

I doubt whether he has any of these desperate people. I have met, and got to know and like, many asylum seekers and, in my experience, have found them to be decent, hard-working members of our community. Michael Long should meet and get to know some of these good people and see if his view changes. Chris Quin, Blairgowrie

MPs doing their best Bleat of the week and a contender for the Sore Loser of the Year award must surely go to former Labor candidate Marg D’Arcy (“Labor would have better ways of tackling COVID-19” Letters 31/3/20). She takes aim at the Prime Minister [Scott Morrison] and a several Cabinet ministers for what she perceives as their shortcomings in tackling this current national crisis. I just can’t see anything in the least construc-

tive in her comments. Her letter is nothing more than a fault finding exercise with a generous sprinkling of Labor animosity. I believe every politician, both federally and at state level, is working untold hours and doing the best they possibly can in trying to address this monumental problem, including Health Minister [Flinders MP] Greg Hunt, who must have one of this nation’s most unenviable roles. Ms D’Arcy suggests that if Labor was in government it would manage to deliver a clearer COVID-19 message to the community. She might reflect on the thought that it was the Labor Party’s inability to articulate a clear electoral message, along with a totally ineffective leader, that cost them the last (unlosable) federal election. Alas, the ides of last May have come and gone, as has that leader. Might be time for all of us to move on. Neville Congress, Rosebud

Surfers foil the waves

FENCES, signs and dumped soil are making it clear that there is to be no activity at Balnarring skate park during the COVID-19 crisis. Picture: Gary Sissons

PAGE 14

Western Port News

15 April 2020

IN some circles, foil surfing seen as the cutting edge of surfing. And cutting it can be if not handled properly. But those thoughts were set aside when two surfers took their foil boards out near Dromana pier on Sunday. Dromana is not regarded as a surf break, but the foil boards and their hydrofoil technology make use of the energy of almost any wave. From a distance the riders seem to be floating above the water, but what is really keeping them aloft is a longer, hydrodynamically designed fin, or blade, with two wings at its base. The fin lifts the board in the same way hydrofoils lift a boat.

Picture: Gary Sissons

PENINSULA TO YOU

Only the best in ready made meals WITH the closure of thousands of restaurants, cafes and bars across the Peninsula the Hospitality industry has scrambled to adjust to life as we now know it, the new ‘norm’ that has already seen so many hard working families lose all they have ever known. Chef Guy Francis and his wife Vanessa made the move down to the Mornington Peninsula a few years ago and the community spirit was instantly noticeable! “Peninsula First” is a term thrown around daily. After a year and a half they took the plunge to expand our company Some Guys Food and opened the doors of Some Guys Coffee in January 2020. From day one Guy and Vanessa have been beyond grateful for the support of our local community and now more than ever we are seeing “Peninsula First” in all its glory. Noticing changes to their business weeks before government restrictions, they have been providing delicious Ready Made Meals to their customers for $10 each or 5 for $40. From selling 22 meals one week to close to 300 the next we knew they had found a way to keep our business alive! Fast-forward another month and they are now providing close to 1000 meals a week across the Peninsula to those in isolation, those restricted from travel and those that have unfortunately lost their jobs. With the introduction of our Pay-ItForward scheme Some Guy’s Coffee have now

Attention Schools, sporting clubs & community groups

Free advertising listings Each month the Western Port News will run a Community Events page, where your school or organisation can promote upcoming events, fund raisers, social events, etc. at no charge. This page is sponsored by the Balnarring & District Community Bank and listings are completely free. Listing should be about 40 words and include event name, date, time & address.

Send your listing to:

also been able to provide 80-100 meals a week to those doing it tough. The support to date has been incredible but the tough times are certainly not over yet! With restrictions expected for at least 6 months they ask you not to forget to support your small and medium local businesses so everyone can see the other side of these restrictions and they can reopen the doors of Some Guys Coffee. www.someguysfood.com.au

Community Events

PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or email communityevents@mpnews.com.au ‘A high performing provider of education on the Mornington Peninsula’ As the highest performing secondary school on the Mornington Peninsula, Dromana College will continue to work tirelessly to develop and consolidate the many exemplary educational programs on offer. With outstanding facilities, a committed professional staff and a caring school community, students are challenged to explore their interests and talents to achieve their personal best.

Open Night

Tuesday 28 April 2020 at 6.00pm

D E N O P T S O P T OPEN NIGH

‘Lessons come from the journey ...not the destination’ 110 Harrisons Road, Dromana, Victoria 3936

PH: 03 5987 2805 E: dromana.sc@education.vic.gov.au W: www.dsc.vic.edu.au

R E SPON SI B I L IT Y, R E S P E CT , IN T E G R IT Y, PERSONAL B EST Western Port News

15 April 2020

PAGE 15

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

Frankston light - the council’s position Compiled by Cameron McCullough A LETTER from the Frankston Gas Company relating to the electric light supply, but making no reference to the council’s decision to have the company’s charter cancelled, caused Cr Mason to ask at the meeting last week what action had been taken by the shire solicitor to give effect to the council’s resolution. The secretary said that Mr Cook had explained to him that he had been too busy to attend to the matter. Cr Mason – He has not replied to the council’s letter of six weeks ago. I move that Mr Cook be directed to carry out the council’s instructions forthwith. Cr Oates seconded. It was time Mr Cook gave more attention to matters connected with this shire. If Mr Cook could not find time to do their work they must get someone else. The motion was carried unanimously. *** MR T. H. Burns has purchased the dairy produce and ham and beef business lately carried on so successfully by Mr N. Callander, in Bay Street Frankston. Mr Burns, in announcing the change in our advertising columns, asks for a continuance of the support accorded to his predecessor. Mr Callander, as the result of war service, finds it necessary to undergo an operation for eye trouble, and prior to placing himself in the hands of a specialist, Mr and Mrs Callander intend spending a fortnight’s holiday at Daylesford.

*** A LITTLE girl named Kimlin had a sensational experience during the holidays when she accidentally rode a bicycle over the end of the Frankston pier. Fortunately she was able to swim and succeeded to reaching the steps safely. The bike was recovered later in the day. *** FRANKSTON hall was too small to hold all who sought admission to the Good Friday Night concert in aid of the Frankston Presbyterian Church building fund. It was a most successful gathering and the organisers have handed to Miss MacKay the sum of £21 5s 4d as the result of the effort. *** Frankston Football Club held a wonderfully successful annual meeting last night, the attendance numbering over 50. Mr E J Parker was elected president, with Mr A Aitken secretary. *** A MOTOR cycle with side car collided with a dog at Mile Bridge last Tuesday afternoon, when Lieut Kirkwood, M.C., M.M., ,and his mother were seriously injured. A phone message for assistance was received at the Peninsula Motor Garage and Mr O. Olsen, driving one of the company’s cars, speedily had the sufferers conveyed to St. Pancras private hospital. *** AT about 1 o’clock this morning the house occupied by Mrs Pal-

lamountagne, in Cranbourne Road, Frankston, was totally destroyed by fire. The occupants were all in bed when the alarm was given and they escaped from the burning building with only such articles of wearing apparel as could be hurriedly snatched up. Mrs Pallamountagne is a heavy loser, the contents being uninsured. The house was owned Miss Baxter. *** Heard in the Train Easter holidays saw an unusually large influx of visitors to Frankston, and railway traffic was particularly heavy. The weather throughout was good, with the exception of Saturday, when rain fell in the forenoon. A satisfactory demand continues for township properties, both business sites and residential areas being in strong request. Frankston lighting supply was the only cause for complaint with visitors, the electric power as usual failing to materialise when most required. A re-valuation of the whole shire of Frankston and Hastings has been decided upon. Several business changes effected and pending in Frankston. Cr. Chas. A. Jones received a cordial welcome on taking his seat at the council table for the first time last week. Frankston’s ranger cast his net the other day and made a notable haul for the shire pound, including two horses owned by a Frankston Riding councillor.

The Frankston owned Bothulla annexed the steeple at Mentone last Wednesday. *** NOTICE. ANYONE found taking Hay or Wood out of any of my Paddocks, or found trespassing, with or without dogs or guns will be Prosecuted. N. C. HOLDSWORTH. Baxter *** Our Letterbox To the Editor. Sir, During the Easter vacation I took occasion to visit my house in Frankston, and I was simply dumb with amazement at the position of affairs in connection with the electric light. Light, did I say, Mr Editor? (please excuse my smile). The following was my experience each evening. Between 6.30 and 7 p.m. the light (?) was put on, and was fairly good for about 10 minutes, then a gradual dimness came on, and eventually darkness. Kerosene lamps had to be requisitioned. After another half-hour, suddenly a faint glimmer appeared, which, within half-an-hour reached a stage of about 4 candle power, and there it remained until well after 10 o’clock. Then, when nobody wanted to use it, it suddenly brightened. I can assure, you, Sir, that at no time between dusk and 10 o’clock was I able to read a newspaper, without lighting a kerosene lamp. I tried new globes—same result. The above was my experience with a 50 c.p. globe, and you can judge

how the other rooms were with 30 c.p. What passes my comprehension is how the permanent residents stand it. Some two years ago were all circularised, asking us to signify our intention, or otherwise, of having electric light installed in our houses, we, on our part, undertaking to pay a minimum fee per month whether we used the light or not. So far, so good. Surely, per contra, the Company entered into a contract to supply us with light – not the apology for it, which we have to put up with, and although I am no lawyer, I should very much like to know what position any court would take up if a consumer refused to pay the minimum fee per month, maintaining, as I do, that there is a breach of contract on the Company’s part, and something which seems to me very akin to obtaining money under false pretenses, for, under no circumstances, can the glimmer the Company gives us be called a light. One hears whispers that the Shire Council are going to take the matter up – the sooner the better – so that Frankston and it’s electric light shall no longer be a laughing stock amongst the many visitors who go there. Trusting that some more able pen than mine will take this matter up, and that the residents of Frankston will see that they get fair play. Yours faithfully, W. MOULTON, Gould St., Long Island. *** FROM the pages of the Mornington Standard, 9 April 1920

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Western Port News

15 April 2020

PUZZLE ZONE 1

ACROSS 1. Risked 5. Rectangular courtyard 7. Wind-borne toy 8. Surprised, taken ... 9. Bakes in oven 12. Methods 15. Acted in response 19. Cushioned

21. Announced 22. Tofu bean 23. Hindu meditation 24. Delights in

DOWN 1. Ramblers 2. Aids in crime 3. Oil containers 4. Drearily 5. Pleasingly odd 6. Races 10. Soprano’s solo 11. Diplomacy

12. Downcast 13. Long narrative 14. Viewed 15. Hastily 16. Droning insect 17. Travel cheat, fare ... 18. Standards of perfection 19. Foot lever 20. Wipes down (furniture)

Puzzles supplied by Lovatts Publications Pty Ltd www.lovattspuzzles.com See page 19 for solutions.

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Western Port News

15 April 2020

PAGE 17

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Western Port News

15 April 2020

scoreboard WESTERN PORT

Meet Michael your zone rep SOCCER

In the zone: Football Victoria’s southern zone representative Michael Woodward. Photo: Darryl Kennedy

By Craig MacKenzie MICHAEL Woodward is one of the “invisible men” of local soccer. There are committee members at some clubs who have never heard of him but that’s more a reflection of how football is structured in Victoria than of the man himself. In a wide-ranging interview Football Victoria’s southern zone representative has chosen to share his personal views on the sports’ governance, clubs’ focus on their senior teams, the high cost of player fees especially at NPL junior level and what the prospects are for restarting the 2020 season. Woodward, 59, has a son and daughter that both played soccer and he has held administrative positions in the sport with Frankston Strikers, Peninsula junior soccer club, Peninsula Strikers and Southern United. He has represented clubs in FV’s southern zone for over six years. “As a result of the Crawford Report (2003) we moved at state level from a system of club voting weighted in favour of premier league clubs to a zone and standing committee system,” Woodward said. That restructure was supposed to democratise the sport by the enfranchising of groups not previously represented – for example, referees and female players – but it now means that 24 zone representatives and four standing committee chairpersons are the only people empowered to vote come FV board elections. “A group of us have been pushing for a big review of FV’s constitution and the current (governance) structure with a view to making the constitution fairer and giving people more input,” Woodward said. “At the same time we need to get more clubs to vote under the present system as currently very few of them even bother to vote for zone reps.” Woodward’s role is to act as a bridge between FV and its member clubs but he’s rarely used as clubs prefer to deal with FV directly. “It’s the sort of job where you often take one step forward then four steps backward. “When you have no power to make changes it is very, very frustrating. “What’s been put in place recently regarding a women’s VPL and the NPL junior structure are things we recom-

mended to the federation almost seven years ago and for four years now we’ve been pushing for constitutional change. “We keep getting told that nothing can be done until the situation is sorted out at FFA level but we say no, that’s not the case. “We say to FV all you need to do is get permission from FFA to change your constitution and they won’t withhold permission without reason because FV is a separate incorporated body.” Outgoing FFA technical director Rob Sherman has been calling for a major structural overhaul of Australian soccer involving a disbandment of state and territory federations and their replacement with regional offices of the national body. His pleas fell on deaf ears prompting his departure but he has an ally in Woodward. “Federations have become involved in areas they should have nothing to do with. They should be regional offices concentrating on running competitions. “The NPL is an example of why there should be one centralised body because FFA brought out the NPL system then each state changed it to suit themselves. “The more you look at it the more you realise they should just get rid of state federations.

“Just look at the money involved. “Each federation has a CEO, a CFO … the list goes on and on. “Everyone says there’s not much money in soccer well there’s heaps of money in the sport. “It’s just that it’s spent wrongly whether it’s on a State 5 player getting $300 or $400 a game or half a dozen CEOs getting a million dollars. “It’s all wasted money that could be used on facilities development for example.” Another of Woodward’s bugbears involves the issue of child safety. It’s much more than employment screening and involves players, coaches, parents and administrators playing a part in embedding various aspects of child safety into a club’s culture. “I’ve been pushing this for years but it’s only now that we’re starting to get our head around it. “You have to set up info sessions for everyone involved if you are to make a serious impact on a club’s culture in this regard.” The child safety issue is among a number of subjects and policy settings that Woodward believes is best handled by one national organisation. “Why shouldn’t there be consistency throughout Australian soccer in areas such as inclusion, growth, child safety etcetera?”

He also has a firm view of what clubs should focus on when measuring success. “One of my biggest gripes about the sport is that the success of a club is measured by what level its senior team plays and that shouldn’t be the case. “There is so much more to the sport than just senior team football.” According to Woodward the focus on a club’s senior team is linked to one of the hot topics in Victorian soccer – player fees, especially at junior NPL level. “One of the pillars of the creation of a junior NPL system was to reduce player fees and clearly that hasn’t worked. “So where did we go wrong? Well it’s not just the cost of NPL licence fees. “One of the problems is that the criteria has been written in such a way that people can ask a fortune to be your TD (technical director), coach etcetera and TDs especially at NPL level are not being used properly. “They should be spending time in community football too given that at junior NPL level they only have four teams to look after. “If they helped raise standards at community level among what you might call your feeder clubs then we wouldn’t have to waste time and money dealing with so many basics once kids come into the NPL system. “And there’s another aspect to this. No matter what they say, no matter what club, to a certain extent junior fees go towards senior player match payments. “That’s the main reason clubs are loathe to reduce junior NPL player fees. “I know a bit about costs and you can work it out. “If you have the maximum amount of mini roos and junior NPL players then you could bring around half a million dollars into your club and you can’t tell me that these programs cost half a million to run. “If a federation was serious about

controlling costs then it would make clubs justify the costs.” Woodward also is critical of FV’s planning given that the 2020 season is currently officially suspended until 31 May and waiting on FFA approval to restart. Last week the state federation’s competitions department emailed clubs saying that it is “currently working through a range of scenarios to ensure football is played again in season 2020 when the opportunity presents.” The email asked clubs to inform FV of ground availability and the possibility of extending the season into summer, a strategy employed by the state body in Queensland among others. “My initial take on it is that all this sort of information should already be known and they should have been doing something about this a long time before now,” Woodward said. “My gut feeling is that if they get the season going it’s going to be very late and very short. “I don’t think there will be long enough to run a proper and fair competition. “There are a few issues to consider and ground availability is pivotal in all of this. “As you know lots of clubs ground share and the word out of Cricket Victoria is that they’re not going to budge so it’ll be interesting to see what impact that has. “But it’s not just about facilities it’s also about player availability given that so many juniors for example also play summer sports. “Then there’s an issue about visa players and players from interstate and I know that’s one of the discussions that’s happening at senior NPL level right now and how that might skew the competition and advantage some clubs and disadvantage others. “There’s a lot to consider before we’re up and running again and people need to bear that in mind.” But before you think that Woodward’s FV role has simply spawned criticism of how the sport is run there’s a definite upside to it. “We work hard at what we do but lifelong friendships are formed out of being involved in this way and that’s the really positive and rewarding aspect of it. “It’s something that means a lot to me.”

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15 April 2020

PAGE 19

THE

Peninsula

TO YOU ONLINE

DELIVERY& TAKE-AWAY

Your guide to businesses in your area offering takeaway, online ordering and payment, change in collection procedures or home delivery.

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MONTALTO PIZZA AT MY PLACE Heat and eat pick up and delivery service. Simply pre order online, pre heat oven, pick up your order Delivery available on Wednesday and Saturday*- Heat and eat! Pick up is from 11am - 4pm 7 DAYS A WEEK No contact, no worries Essential boxes, take-home meals, pantry items, wine, beer and cider also available via online store. 33 Shoreham Road, Red Hill South Ph 59 89 8412 www.montalto.com.au @montaltovineyard

PAGE 20

Western Port News

15 April 2020

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