Western Port News 1 July 2020

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Wednesday 1 July 2020

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Clubs’ rooms damaged in ram raid CLUBROOMS at Baxter Park used

by Frankston South football and Baxter cricket clubs were badly damaged in a ram raid last week.

It was the second time this year the clubhouse at the corner of Sages and Baxter-Tooradin roads has been targeted.

The Frankston Bombers Facebook page said the “news came through at 4.45am this morning [26 June] that a car had rammed through our club room doors”.

“Unfortunately, this is the second incident of this nature since February this year where a vehicle has caused damage to the facility.

“The car was stolen from Frankston before making the trip to Baxter Park and reversing through the glass doors where a man then entered the rooms.”

The man allegedly grabbed a “few bottles of wine” before fleeing on foot.

Police urge anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.

VCAT showdown for shire and aero club Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au THE Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal has been called in to determine what activities Peninsula Aero Club can undertake at the Tyabb airfield.

Issues being investigated are use of the east-west runway, passenger charter services and night flying.

Mornington Peninsula Shire and the aero club have long disputed some of

the existing planning permit conditions and legislation requires that VCAT be called in to adjudicate.

The shire last week issued a statement saying it would abide by VCAT’s decision and “then work with both the PAC and broader Tyabb community to understand any implications from the decision”.

Aero club members were rejoicing in February this year when VCAT directed that the club be allowed to move a maintenance shed (“VCAT backs aero club against shire” The News 25/2/20).

However, the next skirmish at VCAT between the club and the shire will be to determine much bigger issues.

In June 2019, the shire issued a stop work order on businesses operating at the airfield (“Permit row grounds airfield” The News 11/6/19). Most of those issues concerning businesses have been or are in the process of being resolved, but it is the use of the airfield by the aero club that is now under scrutiny. The shire said the latest decision of going to VCAT “is not to close the authorised landing ground”.

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“For many years there has been uncertainty and confusion around some aspects of the operation of the Tyabb airfield,” the shire’s statement said.

“In an effort to ensure that everybody is clear about the conditions under which the airfield operates ... the shire has lodged an enforcement order application with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to obtain an independent adjudication for the continuing use of the airfield by the Peninsula Aero Club (PAC).”

“Council has sought to cooperate

and support the airfield where possible over a number of years, both providing funding for needed infrastructure and most recently in relation to the 2020 air show, and we continue to support the airfield in the important role it plays in our community,” the mayor Cr Sam Hearn and Cr Julie Morris said in the joint statement. “This does not mean that we oppose the airfield or wish to close it down.

“On some points however, an independent legal ruling is required.

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

NEWS DESK

Gardens’ new attractions THE Enchanted Adventure Garden, at Arthurs Seat, has re-opened after closing for a refit for the first time in 25 years.

The break gave staff the opportunity to focus on improving the gardens, painting the buildings, and, of course, finishing work on the new Sky Scramble.

“This huge wooden structure, with its rope bridges, cargo and scramble nets, obstacles, tight rope, fisherman’s trap, Tibetan bridge, slides and a cubby house, guarantee fun for all age groups,” owner Michael Savage said.

“Built on timber platforms 10 metres high, the aerial playground won’t disappoint. It’s just what we all need after three months in lockdown with our children.”

The family-friendly park also has mazes, tube slides and treetop zip lining, which consists of two zip lines which fly 300 metres across the formal gardens and lake.

The Enchanted Adventure Garden is in Purves Road, call 5981 8449.

Instructore Will Stringer and Zachary Warwick, left, on the Big Zip at the Enchanted Adventure Garden.

Picture: Gary Sissons

Strategy to end deaths on peninsula roads Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au A FIVE-YEAR strategy to eliminate road deaths on the Mornington Peninsula involves having safer roads, safer vehicles, safer speeds and safer drivers.

The shire’s Road Safety Strategy 2020-25 – developed after community

consultation and road safety experts – aims to reduce the “unacceptably high levels of road trauma” on peninsula roads.

A report to council’s Tuesday 23 June meeting noted that 69 people had been killed and more than 1500 seriously injured over the past decade.

The peninsula recorded the highest number of deaths in Victoria’s 79 local government areas in 2010 and in 2019.

The mayor Cr Sam Hearn said the community needed to “work together to minimise road trauma”.

“The devastating impacts of road trauma on our community are not just felt when someone is lost. Serious injuries are the hidden road toll, with ongoing pain, suffering and impairment upending the lives of those affected, as well as the lives of their families,” he said.

“One of our fundamental duties as a council is to look after the wellbeing of our community. Saving lives and preventing serious injury on our roads is central to that mission.”

In April 2016, the shire became the state’s first Towards Zero municipality and adopted the goal of having no deaths or serious injuries on roads within the municipality.

Community consultation on the draft

strategy closes 5pm, Thursday 30 July.

To view the plan (including a summary) and to complete an online form visit: mornpen.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay.

Forms will be made available to complete in hard copy upon request.

Email submissions to: haveyoursay@mornpen.vic.gov.au with the subject line ‘Towards Zero’.

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 3

Caring for our community during Coronavirus

Getting through this together Restriction levels have been updated across Victoria, but please remember these things haven’t changed: Keep 1.5 metres away from anyone you don’t live with. Wash your hands – cough and sneeze into your elbow. Stay home when unwell – if you have symptoms, get tested. If you can work from home, you should work from home. For the latest updates, including what Shire services are now available, visit: mornpen.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

Current restriction levels from 22 June In Mornington Peninsula Shire: • Libraries: open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (20 person limit) • MP Regional Gallery: reopens 1 July • Customer Service Centres: closed for now • Visitor Information Centre: online/phone 5950 1579 • Community Houses and Halls: open from 13 July • Shire recreation centre gyms: open 22 June Further information: dhhs.vic.gov.au/victoriasrestriction-levels-covid-19

Our Aquatic Centre name: voting closes 9 July Vote now for your favourite name for our new aquatic centre in Rosebud. mornpen.vic.gov.au/aquaticcentre

Have Your Say

Learn to thrive in the digital world

mornpen.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay haveyoursay@mornpen.vic.gov.au Towards Zero Road Safety Strategy: closes 30 July The Shire would like to hear your thoughts on how we can create a safer road system. We need to work together to minimise road trauma; your thoughts will help us set the vision, targets and strategy of our journey Towards Zero.

Community Investment Funding Policy: closes 5 August You are invited to provide your thoughts and feedback on this draft policy, which sets out how the Shire can improve the delivery of community investment funding. The policy aims to encourage community collaboration on initiatives that fulfil community aspirations and align with Council strategic plans.

Mornington Peninsula Shire has partnered with the Be Connected Network to educate our older residents on the digital world, including how to stay socially connected to family and friends.

Participants will gain confidence in navigating the internet and learn how to stay safe online. All classes will be run over video in your home (they will help with zoom set up if required) and will cover topics such as online shopping, using email, social media, search engines and online forms, downloading and saving documents, watching and listening online and video calling.

For more information: ourlibrary.mornpen.vic.gov.au/beconnected 0466 841 327

Contact us: 5950 1000 or 1300 850 600 mornpen.vic.gov.au mornpenshire

Messages from our councillors

Your Councillors (L–R) Seawinds Crs Simon Brooks, Antonella Celi, Frank Martin Briars Crs Rosie Clark, Bev Colomb, Mayor Cr Sam Hearn Nepean Crs Hugh Fraser, Bryan Payne Investment ready projects As work begins on our economic recovery from the pandemic, Council is advocating to state and federal governments for further investment in our region to boost our economy.

We have identified a range of shovel-ready construction and infrastructure projects that if realised would help deliver a stronger economic recovery and continued flow-on benefits to our region. We will continue to prioritise investment that leads to jobs, business growth and economic recovery.

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

Cerberus Cr Kate Roper Watson Cr Julie Morris Red Hill Cr David Gill

Homelessness on the Peninsula With cold and wintery conditions upon us, it is distressing to see the growing number of homeless people on the Peninsula. Council has been working closely with local agencies to support people in this situation and to help move them into better accommodation, but the lack of local options is a significant problem.

Sixteen per cent of our homeless residents still sleep rough every night. With support from the state government, Council aims to find real, sustainable and immediate solutions to this unacceptable situation.

Our Active Peninsula We are excited to launch the Shire’s new sport and recreation website – Our Active Peninsula.

We are extremely lucky to live in a region where there are many opportunities for keeping active, whether it’s through organised sport, leisure centres, boating and fishing, walking and cycling or many other pursuits.

Our new website is a hub where you can find information on what is happening where, and how you can get involved. Let’s get more active, more often! active.mornpen.vic.gov.au

NEWS DESK

Permit row could sink swim school

Update for Crib Point

Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au

THE 10-year-old Crib Point township plan has been updated and is open for public input until 14 August.

The plan sets out the strategic vision and direction of the town’s development and aims to protect its character of tree-lined streets and mix of old and new houses.

Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor Cr Sam Hearn said the plan ensured Crib Point would “continue to have the look, feel and function of a country town on the coast, closely connected with its natural environment”.

The original plan from 2009-11 set a long-term vision and guide for the development of Crib Point.

It was prepared in consultation with the town’s residents and other stakeholders, following community concerns that out-of-character multiunit developments were emerging.

“An update is necessary as the plan is now 10 years old. The original vision remains current, and this update focuses on reviewing the plan against existing state and local policies, conditions and relevant strategies,” Cr Kate Roper said.

“Community feedback will help us finalise the document.”

To have a say on the plan at an online community drop-in session on Tuesday 14 July register via email: strategic.admin@mornpen.vic.gov. au Or visit Mornpen.vic.gov.au/cribpoint or call 5950 1952 for a hard copy.

SOMERVILLE Swim School could be forced to close if its owners cannot come to agreement with Mornington Peninsula Shire over its hours of operation, class sizes and parking requirements.

Evan and Carolyn Russell who have run the school since 2015, say that while they have been prepared to “compromise, reduce the profitability of our business, and consider future relocation, this has all fallen on deaf ears”.

The couple bought the former Jump Swim Schools franchise in Gwelph Street in 2015 and say their fees included the “fit out and necessary permits to run a viable swim school business”.

“When the franchisor submitted the original permit, we raised concerns with them regarding three conditions,” Mr Russell said.

“These were a gap of 30 minutes between each class; a maximum of four students per class, and opening hours of 8am-5.30pm.

Mr Russell said the franchisor gave assurances the permit would be amended.

Four years later, in April 2019, they were told by the shire that they were operating in contravention of the original permit, which had not been amended.

“We immediately went to our franchisor to get this rectified and were told they would organise the amendment. However, four weeks later, the

‘Help us survive’: Somerville Swim School owners Evan and Carolyn Russell. Picture: Yanni

franchisor was placed into voluntary administration, and in September last year, went into liquidation,” Mr Russell said.

“In late November we were able to negotiate a release, at great expense,

from the purchaser of the Jump Group, and became an independent entity.

“Now we are [still trying to] rectify issues with our original planning permit.

“We are not trying to expand, in-

An educational environment characterised by

0 0

crease [the number of] classes, or class sizes. We are merely trying to continue offering the same service to the community [as] we have for the past four years.”

The conditions the couple is seeking to amend include having no gap between classes (while the council is demanding a 30-minute gap); having six students a class (as opposed to four); and extending their hours of operation to 8pm Monday to Friday (as opposed to 5.30pm).

Mr Russell said the council’s demand of a 30-minute gap between classes would mean cutting 70 per cent of classes.

Mr Russell said operating expenses at the swim school – which employs 12 people – continued during closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic from 23 March.

“All the money we received in the form of government grants to assist small business during this time was used to pay our overheads. There is now nothing left, and we must reopen in the next month if we are to have any chance of our business surviving.”

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council was contacted for comment.

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 5

From today, workplace manslaughter is a jailable offence.

Tougher laws As an employer, if a workplace death is caused by criminal negligence, you could face up to 25 years in jail, and fines up to $16.5 million. If you don’t take care of your employees at work, and make sure they can return home safe every day, we’ll make sure that you face the consequences.

Everyone. Every workplace.

PAGE 6

Western Port News

1 July 2020

Safer workplaces

NEWS DESK

Basketballers out of bounds Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au THE Southern Peninsula Basketball Association is in damage control following revelations that some Sharks players trained at Dromana Secondary College stadium for several weeks in breach of COVID-19 restrictions.

The players could be ruled out of bounds and fined by Basketball Victoria for the unsanctioned training while the school was closed.

Despite the allegations being aired on social media, including warnings that COVID-19 restrictions banned indoor training, officials are reluctant to provide details about the alleged breaches.

Some parents are said to feel “betrayed” by the

association because they thought the small-group training had been given the official all clear.

A parent later said it appeared the school was unaware that outside groups were training at the stadium.

Association president Damian Paul admitted last week to being “furious that the situation had arisen”.

“Some people have done the wrong thing and that’s the frustrating part,” he said.

“None of [the training] was sanctioned and we didn’t know about it. I only found out when someone told me [in early June] and we self-reported.

“We went to the school and Basketball Victoria [in order to maintain] the integrity of the [association] because we knew [the breaches] were not allowed.”

Mr Paul posted on social media last week: “The [COVID-19] restrictions … as they relate to sport Victoria are very clear: You can gather in groups of up to 20 people outside, but must adhere to the social distancing described by the government.

“Gathering in indoor facilities is prohibited and will attract a significant fine for [those who] transgress and facility owners who allow it.”

Mr Paul said anyone training indoors was “putting themselves at risk of breaking government laws and Basketball Victoria guidelines. You are also potentially putting our return to play at risk.”

He said Basketball Victoria was aware of the “alleged breach of COVID-19 restrictions” and would be investigating.

“Basketball Victoria and the Southern Peninsula Basketball Association state that no sanctioned

basketball activity has occurred at the Dromana Secondary College stadium during this period,” he said. “The SPBA has made it very clear to all members of the club that the stadiums were closed during the pandemic.”

Mr Paul later agreed that parents of some players were upset that their children had been training in breach of restrictions.

Dromana Secondary College principal Alan Marr would not comment on the breaches last week and did not return questions via email.

The Southern Peninsula Basketball Association runs two seasons a year with about 3000 players participating each week.

At this stage indoor training for basketballers is expected to begin on 20 July for Junior Domestic and 27 July for Senior Domestic competitions.

Rural rate back flip MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council has reversed its decision for a rural living rate on small properties living inside the green wedge.

Councillors last week (Tuesday 23 June) voted to abandon the new category which added about $900 to the rate bills of 724 properties up to two hectares.

The contentious rate was introduced mid-last year and supported unanimously by councillors but opposed by ratepayers.

About 40 residents attended a stormy community meeting at Red Hill Mechanics Hall in October 2019 and made their opposition known to the then mayor Cr David Gill and CEO John Baker (“Green wedge rate row still boiling along” The News 21/10/19).

The new rate was justified at the time by the shire’s chief financial officer Bulent Oz who said smaller property owners gained greater value than the general ratepayer from programs and policies protecting the green wedge and their rural residential amenity and, as a result, should pay more for the privilege of living there.

Cr Gill last week brought the plan undone and admitted the rural living rate had “done nothing to improve the green wedge”.

“It wasn’t working, so we moved to abolish it,” he said.

He said those previously paying the higher rate would now be charged the general rate. The “lost” rate income from the 724 properties would add “$3 or $4” to the average rate bill, he said.

“It does affect the income to council, but the burden has been shifted to a different set of ratepayers.”

Red Hill resident Paul Whitaker said residents were pleased with the council’s change of heart: “We’ve had a win,” he said. “It was a good outcome.”

He said he had heard that some ratepayers charged the higher rate this year “might be seeking a refund”.

Stephen Taylor

CITIZEN scientist Barb Wallace took this photo closer to shore of the southern right whale and its calf which was pursuded by a boat off Cape Schanck on Sunday.

Alarm over whale-chasing boats Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au RESEARCHERS from the Hastings-based Dolphin Research Institute are worried about the welfare of a southern right whale mother and her calf after they were harassed by a vessel near Cape Schanck on Sunday.

A volunteer citizen scientist with the institute’s Two Bays Whale Project was watching the whales as they appeared desperate to evade a harassing vessel.

The normally slow-moving southern right whales were seen travelling fast and frequently changing direction as the boat maneuvered in an apparent attempt to photograph them.

There were so many reported incidents of whales and boats being pursued boats in Port Phillip and near Phillip that the institute closed its online whale alerts.

Research officer David Donnelly said the whales at Cape Schanck were the first validated sighting of such a young southern right

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“It’s almost like the first calm day for ages made some boaters lose common sense,” Mr Weir said.

“It is remarkable to have these animals in our marine backyard, and we must respect them by obeying the marine mammal regulations,” he said. “It’s not about spoiling the remarkable experience of seeing whales and dolphins, just showing common sense.”

Regulations state that “people shouldn’t deliberately approach dolphins closer than 100 metres (whales 200m) in boats, 300 metres on jet skis or 30m for paddlers and swimmers”.

“If dolphins or whales pop up close to you or approach your vessel, then ideally stop if safe to do so and watch, or slow down and keep your direction,” Mr Weir said. “Enjoy and value our remarkable marine treasures, then let them swim off, without following.”

whale in the records of the Two Bays Whale Project for Victoria’s central region.

“Southern right whales are a critically endangered species in Victorian waters and are part of a genetically distinct population of less than 300. They are making a slow recovery from the brink of extinction,” he said.

“It is very disappointing that a mother with a young calf at their most vulnerable time should be placed under such unnecessary stress.”

Institute executive director Jeff Weir said the boat’s skipper “could be subject to a significant fine”.

“Yesterday we had sightings of killer whales, humpback whales, southern right whales and dolphins in our coastal waters,” he said.

“We also had many other reports of harassment from Port Phillip and along the Phillip Island coast.

The Dolphin Research Institute was so concerned about the situation that it shut down its online whale alert to avoid encouraging more harassment.

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 7

NEWS DESK

Western Port

Proudly published by Mornington Peninsula News Group Pty Ltd

PHONE: 03 5974 9000

Police patrol

With Stephen Taylor

Somerville Highway Patrol’s nightshift crew arrested the 26-year-old driver, from Langwarrin, around the corner in Cranbourne Road. His car was impounded for a month with a release fee of $961.

Police said he gave no reason for speeding. He faces a minimum 12 months’ loss of licence and possible further fines when he appears at court.

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 2 JULY 2020 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: WED 8 JULY 2020

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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

Report crime

Tracking night and day SOMERVILLE Highway Patrol’s automatic number plate recognition system appears to be making it hard for those driving stolen, unregistered or other “vehicles of interest” to hide.

The system is used day and night throughout Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula to scan and photograph passing vehicles.

Last week it alerted the patrol’s ANPR-equipped BMW on Wedge Road, Carrum Downs, to a passing stolen vehicle.

The 40-year-old driver, from Chadstone, did a quick left and right turn and parked in a front yard, possibly in an attempt to hide, but could not escape.

He was arrested and taken to Frankston police station where he was charged with theft of and theft from a car, driving with false plates, driving while disqualified, drugdriving (methyl-amphetamine), breach of bail and breach of a com-

munity corrections order.

Police said the man gave no reason for committing the offences and was remanded in custody to appear in court at a later date.

For further information see: https:// bit.ly/2CBeF1H

Costly parking A WHITE Commodore was spotted allegedly speeding at 116kph in a 60kph zone on Warrandyte Road, Langwarrin, 3.30am, Sunday 21 June.

VICTORIA Police are making it easier for those being subjected to sexual crimes to contact police.

When releasing the new Reporting Sexual Offences guide it acknowledge “how challenging it is [for victims] to come forward and report a sexual assault”.

“We understand you may experience confusion, guilt, shock or shame after an offence has occurred. It is not your fault.”

The guide explains what sexual offences are, what victims can expect to happen if they report sexual offences to police, what happens during the investigation and at court, and the support options available to victims.

The guide has been translated into “easy English” and 20 different languages. Visit go.vic.gov.au/COdjxq Those who would prefer to speak to police will be assigned to detectives in the SOCIT squad who are trained to help.

To report a sexual offence to police call a nearby SOCIT: go.vic.gov.au/ Vnv6p1 Attend a police station: go.vic.gov. au/uBUqLV or call Triple Zero in an emergency.

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Western Port News

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The draft strategy identifies three potential new industrial precincts: • Somerville (to the east of the township, including land on Bungower Road) • Tyabb (to the east of the township including land on Denham Road) • Hastings (north of the township, adjoining Graydens Road) After a comprehensive assessment, the Hastings land has been identified

by Council as the preferred location for the new industrial precinct.

We’re now seeking the community’s views before Council makes a decision on this critical issue.

How to have your say

Community consultation closes 3 August 2020.

Online mornpen.vic.gov.au/ haveyoursay

Email haveyoursay@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Hard copy consultation forms and the Draft Strategy are also available to be posted upon request by phoning the Shire on 5950 1010

Online Community Drop In Session Wednesday 15 July, 6 – 8pm Zoom meeting – RSVP by 10 July 2020 strategic.admin@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Alert garbo saves a life A MAN who somehow found himself inside a 240-litre green bin at Rye can thank an alert garbage truck driver for possibly saving his life, Monday 29 June.

The truck was emptying curb-side bins when the driver, watching his CCTV monitor, saw what he realised was a man falling out of the bin into the garbage compactor in Tarawill Street, 8am.

Rye CFA incident controller Eddie Matt said the 21-yearold appeared to be OK after the fall although he had injured his leg and could not stand.

“Sorrento SES crews got him out of the back of the garbage truck and he was stabilised by ambulance officers,” Mr Matt said.

“He is very lucky. We don’t know if he was asleep in the bin or what but he is very lucky the driver saw him in time.”

An ambulance took the man to the Rye football oval from where he was airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital with “serious but stable injuries”.

CFA crews from Sorrento, Rye, Rosebud and Dromana and Sorrento SES attended.

Fine for party breach THE occupant of a Rye house was handed a $1652 social distancing fine for throwing a party, early Sunday 28 June.

Rye police said 16-18 guests were mingling at the Tiberius Street house when police, acting on a tip off, arrived and shut the party down, 1am.

Pearcedale fatal A WOMAN died when a Ford station wagon collided head-on with a Nissan Pathfinder on Baxter-Tooradin Road, Pearcedale, 5.30pm, Saturday 27 June.

The woman was a passenger in the station wagon which was being driven by an 81-year-old Frankston man who was later airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The 39-year-old Rye man driving the Pathfinder was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives said the station wagon may have been speeding and that it was seen veering onto the wrong side of the road prior to the collision.

They ask witnesses or anyone with dash-cam footage to call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential

report online at crimestoppers.com.au

Caught on Western Port A MERCEDES sedan allegedly travelling at 165kph along the Western Port Highway at Somerville was later impounded for 30 days with an $895 release fee.

Police said they saw the AMG sedan accelerating past a line of north-bound traffic in a 100kph zone, Sunday 28 June.

The driver, 49, from Doncaster, is expected to receive a summons to appear at a magistrates’ court at a later date.

The impound forms part of Operation Artemis over the school holidays targeting speeding, drink and drug driving, and driver distraction, police said.

Camper killed AN appeal for public assistance has been put out as part of an investigation into the death of a man, 49, in Noojee Sunday, 21 June.

It is believed the man died after being assaulted by people at a camping ground, possibly because of his dog. At 9pm, 20 June, the victim left the camp site with a Langwarrin man and went to a nearby hotel. Concerned staff offered to call for medical assistance for the man, but he refused and the pair returned to the campsite.

At 9pm on Sunday they returned to the hotel, with the assault victim appearing disoriented. An ambulance was called but the man died on the way to the hospital.

Shooting charges ECHO Taskforce detectives have laid charges over an alleged drive-by shooting and car fire at Frankston in 2018.

A 36-year-old man faces counts of discharging a firearm at a premises, reckless conduct endangering life, criminal damage by fire (arson), being a prohibited person possess firearm, and theft of motor vehicle. He will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 21 July.

The charges follow an incident in which shots were fired at a house on Warrain Street on 31 May 2018, as well as car fires on Warrain Street and Carramar Drive.

LOCAL WOMEN LEADING CHANGE

ORGANISERS wave to the crowd during this year’s air show at Tyabb.

Picture: Gary Sissons

VCAT to decide airfield’s future Continued from Page 1 “We hope this action finally brings clarity and certainty for all parties once and for all”.

In April 2019, the shire hired a Queen’s Counsel to conduct a “full legal review, in order to provide clear information … regarding the conditions of all current planning permits currently applying to the Tyabb airfield”.

The legal report was completed later that year, but findings were never released.

By mid-year, relations had deteriorated so much that the club called off its scheduled air show after president Jack Vevers said the club had been unable to reach agreement with the council over a permit for the event. (“Club abandons air show” The News 13/8/19).

A week later – following “intense negotiations” between the club and the shire – the air show was “cleared for take-off” and held this year on

Sunday 8 March.

The shire’s latest statement says it “seeks to ensure fair and safe use of the Tyabb airfield, in a way which protects the amenity of residents and enables the continuing co-existence of the airfield in the community”.

“Ultimately, council is seeking the development of an airfield master plan, as recommended in the Tyabb Airfield Precinct Plan, which has previously been supported in principle by the PAC, to provide clarity and certainty about current and future airfield operations.”

The shire says a 2011 quote from an earlier VCAT hearing is evidence that it has been seeking clarity about the airfield’s use for some time: “A review of the three permits and associated conditions indicates that there are potential conflicts between these conditions. Not the least being when and what aircraft may operate under the three permissions.”

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Crib Point to Pakenham

PUBLIC COMMENT INVITED AGL Wholesale Gas Limited (AGL) (ABN 26 072 948 504) and APA Transmission Pty Ltd (APA) (ABN 84 603 054 404) have prepared an Environment Effects Statement (EES) for the Gas Import Jetty and Pipeline Project (the Project).

The EES, together with the draft Mornington Peninsula Planning Scheme amendment (PSA) C272, the EPA works approval application and the pipeline licence application are now available for public comment.

This notice is provided pursuant to the Environment Effects Act 1978 (Vic) (EE Act), the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act), the Pipelines Act 2005 (Vic) and the Environment Protection Act 1970 (Vic).

Written submissions can be made starting Thursday 2 July 2020 and closing 11:59pm on Wednesday 26 August 2020.

Project Description The proposal for the Project includes two components: • Gas Import Jetty Works comprising a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) at Crib Point Jetty, jetty infrastructure including marine loading arms and gas piping on the jetty, and the Crib Point Receiving Facility on land adjacent to the jetty.

• Pipeline Works consisting of an underground gas transmission pipeline approximately 57 kilometres long to transport gas from the Crib Point Receiving Facility to the Victorian Transmission System east of Pakenham, and associated infrastructure such as the Pakenham Delivery Facility to monitor and regulate the gas, two above-ground mainline valves to enable isolation of the pipeline in an emergency and a facility to enable in-line inspections of the pipeline.

A map of the pipeline corridor appears to the right.

If the Project gains all required approvals, construction is anticipated to begin early 2021 and finish in late 2022 EES Process On 8 October 2018, the Victorian Minister for Planning determined that an EES is required for the Project under the EE Act.

PAGE 10

Western Port News

1 July 2020

Read more about the EES process for the project at the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) website at planning.vic.gov.au/environment-assessment/ browse-projects/projects/crib-point EPBC Act Process On 28 November 2018, the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment and Energy determined that each component of the Project (the Gas Import Jetty Works and the Pipeline Works) are ‘controlled actions’ as they are likely to have a significant impact on Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES), which are protected under the EPBC Act. The Gas Import facility, Crib Point, Victoria (EPBC 2018/8298) controlled action is intended to be taken by AGL. The relevant provisions for this controlled action are wetlands of international importance (section 16 & section 17B), listed threatened species & communities (section 18 & section 18A), and listed migratory species (section 20 & section 20A).

The Crib Point to Pakenham Pipeline, Victoria (EPBC 2018/8297) controlled action is intended to be taken by APA. The relevant provisions for this controlled action are wetlands of international importance (section 16 & section 17B) and listed threatened species & communities (section 18 & section 18A).

The EES process is an accredited assessment process under the EPBC Act through a Bilateral

Assessment Agreement that exists between the Commonwealth and State of Victoria. Therefore, this EES also considers MNES for the purposes of assessment of the controlled actions under the EPBC Act. You can make a submission on the matters assessed for the purposes of the relevant provisions under the EPBC Act, by making a submission on the EES. After considering the Victorian Minister for Planning’s assessment under the EE Act, the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment will then make separate decisions as to whether to approve the controlled action applications for the proposed Gas Import Jetty Works and the Pipeline Works, respectively, under the EPBC Act. Planning Scheme Amendment The draft PSA including an explanatory report and supporting documents has been prepared.

The draft PSA is included as Attachment VI to the EES. The draft PSA seeks to apply the Specific Controls Overlay and an Incorporated Document to facilitate the use and development of land for the Gas Import Jetty Works. It also seeks to rezone a portion of Crown Allotment (CA) 2040 from the Public Conservation and Resource Zone (PCRZ) to the Port Zone (PZ), and to extend the PZ to apply to all of CA 2085.

EPA Works Approval The EPA has received an application for a works approval for the FSRU component of the Gas Import Jetty Works under the Victorian Environment Protection Act. The works approval application is included as Attachment VIII to the EES. A copy of the works approval application and accompanying plans, specifications and other information can be inspected online at www.gasimportprojectvictoria.com.au You may make a submission or provide comments about the works approval application by making a submission on the EES. Pipeline Licence Application A pipeline licence is required under the Pipelines Act 2005 (Vic) for the construction and operation of the pipeline included in the project. An application was made to the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change in September 2018. The application was amended in June 2020.

The application, as amended, is included in the exhibited documents at Attachment IX to the EES.

More detail about the Gas Import Jetty and Pipeline Project is available at www.gasimportprojectvictoria.com.au

Any person who may be affected by the grant of the pipeline licence may make a written submission to the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change about the application for the licence by following the EES submission process.

All such submissions will also be treated as submissions on the EES. How to Access the EES and Exhibited Documents The EES, draft PSA, EPA works approval application and the pipeline licence application are now available to read and download at www.gasimportprojectvictoria.com.au You can request an EES information pack, free of charge. The pack contains: • USB loaded with the complete EES, draft PSA, EPA works approval application and pipeline licence application • Printed EES Summary Document • Printed EES Map Book • Printed information sheet on ‘How to Navigate the EES’.

For those who may have accessibility issues, or where electronic options are impractical, hard copies may be requested, free of charge.

Request an EES information pack or hard copy documents by phoning 1800 039 600 or emailing AGLcommunity@agl.com.au

Please note the EES is a long document and we encourage the use of electronic versions.

How to Make a Submission Submissions on the EES, draft Planning Scheme amendment, works approval application and the pipeline licence application must be made in writing and received by 11:59pm on Wednesday 26 August 2020.

Each submission is a public document and will be treated as a submission on the EES and as relevant on the other exhibited documents.

Online submissions are preferred and can be lodged via the Victorian Government’s engagement website www.engage.vic.gov.au/crib-point-IAC Hard copy submissions must be accompanied by a coversheet, available by calling the DELWP Customer Service Centre on 136 186. Each written submission must have its own coversheet and they cannot be copied.

All submissions must state the name and address of the person making the submission. Submissions will be treated as public documents and will be published on the Victorian Government’s engagement website. Therefore, your submission and your name will be made public.

The submission process is independently managed

by Planning Panels Victoria.

Inquiry and Advisory Committee Process The Minister for Planning will appoint a joint Inquiry and Advisory Committee (IAC) under the EE Act and the Planning and Environment Act 1987. The IAC will also be appointed as a panel under other applicable legislation. It will review the public submissions, the EES, the draft PSA, the EPA works approval application and the pipeline licence application. It will review and consider the environmental effects of the Project in accordance with Terms of Reference issued by the Minister for Planning.

After the exhibition period, the IAC will hold a Directions Hearing on Thursday 17 September 2020, where the necessary arrangements and timetable for the public hearing will be established.

The Public Hearing will commence on Monday 12 October 2020 and run for six to eight weeks (if required).

Information on the hearing process and timetable will be published as it becomes available at www.engage.vic.gov.au/crib-point-IAC Members of the public and any other parties seeking to be heard at the public hearing are required to submit a written submission and indicate that they would like to be heard at the hearing.

Questions Gas Import Jetty Works Queries should be directed to AGL Wholesale Gas Limited Senior Manager - Land and Approvals, AGL Address: Locked Bag 14120 MCMC, Melbourne, VIC 8001 Phone: 1800 039 600 Email: AGLcommunity@agl.com.au Pipeline Works Queries should be directed to APA Transmission Limited Licencing and Approvals Lead, APA Group Address: Level 25, 580 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 Phone: 1800 531 811 Fax: 03 9797 5295 Email: cribpointpakenham@apa.com.au

EES Process Impact Assessment Unit, DELWP Phone: (03) 8392 5503 or 8392 5570 Email: environment.assessment@delwp.vic.gov.au

Inquiry and Advisory Committee Process Planning Panels Victoria Phone: 136 186

EPA Works Approval Development Assessment Unit, EPA Victoria Phone: 1300 372 842 Email: works.approvals@epa.vic.gov.au Pipeline Licence Application Pipelines Regulation, DELWP Phone: 136 186 Email: pipeline.regulation@delwp.vic.gov.au

Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 11

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

NEWS DESK

Elections like never before Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au ALL candidates in the October Mornington Peninsula Shire Council elections must complete a course on local government in August.

The course requirement means candidates will be unable to keep their intentions secret until the last moment on nomination day, although the option of not lodging papers would remain.

The elections are being held during an unprecedented time in local government caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Council meetings are being held online, the CEO John Baker has been granted emergency powers and shire income is under threat with an abnormal number of requests expected to defer rate payments.

Councillors last week fine-tuned the powers Mr Baker can exercise during the caretaker period the time between the end of one council and the appointment of another.

Councillors also agreed to call for a ban on council and state government candidates receiving campaign donations or at least preventing donations from developers or lobbyists.

In a bid to increase the number of women councillors the Victorian Local Government Association (VLGA) in conjunction with the shire will hold a workshop in July to "connect women with the knowledge, skills and contacts to potentially become local government councillors”.

Currently, five of the shire’s 11 councillors are women.

Although still months away, three councillors - Bev Colomb, Bryan Payne and Rosie Clark -

have told The News they will not seek re-election.

Crs Hugh Fraser and Kate Roper say they will stand, while the mayor, Sam Hearn, and David Gill, Simon Brooks, Antonella Celi, Frank Martin and Julie Morris say they have yet to make up their minds.

Two people who have already publicly declared their intention to stand are Paul Mercurio, an outspoken supporter of the Peninsula Aero Club, and Janet Street, of Mornington.

Cr Hearn said he would make up his mind about standing in "another month or two”.

Having a young family meant that it was “sometimes quite difficult serving the community, but incredible to do it and bring about good outcomes”.

Cr Gill said there were “so many things to consider before committing to another four years”.

“I haven’t yet decided, but [because of the mandatory course in August] it will be the earliest we’ve had to make up our minds,” he said.

Cr Celi was “considering” whether to run but would “definitely encourage others to stand, in particular women”.

“I am more than happy to chat to those men and women who are thinking about running in the elections and to answer any questions about the role that councillors undertake in local government and about the shire,” she said.

Cr Celi said the VLGA was leading a campaign for 50 per cent of Victoria’s councillors to be women. The current figure is 38 per cent and to attain the higher number “we would need to have over 320 women elected to council”.

ROBERT Kalma busking at Mornington’s Wednesday market. Picture: Yanni

Music for those in need MAN of many facets – secondary school teacher, sports psychologist, author, artist, and these days, “muso” – Robert Klaas Kalma says he will use all his skills as a busker at Mornington’s Wednesday market.

Kalma, 80, who lives with his wife Sue at Mount Martha, has in recent years overcome prostate cancer and a major heart attack. However, he is not deterred by these setbacks and sees music as an “opportunity towards making a full recovery”.

After joining the ProBuskers and playing for

audiences around the Mornington Peninsula, Mr Kalma saw a bigger picture: “I wanted to do more after the terrible bushfires and now the coronavirus outbreak.”

He won approval from the Red Cross, Mornington Peninsula Shire and Mornington Chamber of Commerce to raise money for the Red Cross by busking.

Now he is looking forward to being able to restart his career at the Wednesday market in Main Street after the long lock down.

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1 July 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

China has never sought our support for war I was intrigued to read the suggestion that Victoria’s signing up to the Belt and Road initiative further reduces our sovereignty (“Say no to China” Letters 17/6/20).

A read of the Belt and Road MOU, which is publicly available, says the aim is to achieve co-operation and momentum to achieve common development.

I would suggest that rather than relying on the hysteria that the state opposition and the federal government generates, it is worthwhile looking at the MOU. The Commonwealth signed up to a free trade agreement with China in 2015, which also generated opposition because of fears that companies would use Chinese workers and undermine the working conditions of Australian workers.

This is obviously a bigger threat to Australian sovereignty than the MOU signed by Victoria.

It is true that the current pandemic has shown the dilemma caused by relying on overseas markets, particularly for items required for health care, however, developing a mutual process of co-operation must be a positive thing.

It is fine to be cynical about China’s motives, but we should be cynical about the motives of all governments. China has never asked us to follow it into a war with countries that have little to do with our safety and security and the reality is they have been our largest trading partner since 2007.

A little less paranoia about China and a little more seeking to understand not just China and all our closest neighbours might augur well for us as we watch the US falling into chaos.

A bigger threat to our democracy and sovereignty is the secrecy with which this Commonwealth government makes its decisions and secret prosecutions of whistleblowers.

Marg D’Arcy, Rye

For goodness sake stop wasting ratepayers money, Rosebud Aquatic Centre is the obvious name (“Yawa favoured for pool centre name” The News 23/6/20). It tells people in which Mornington Peninsula suburb it is to be found.

Plain and simple. Get your act together [councillors] and be decisive and stop wasting money and time.

Deirdre Gowan, Portsea

I remember a long, unpleasant period where we had a toxic council plus intimidatory supporters pressing for the pool to be nowhere but on the Rosebud foreshore.

It was not edifying to attend council meetings.

The community was all for a pool and the majority wanted it inland.

When [then Planning Minister] Mathew Guy said no more, council finally chose the current site and, as it was council land, it cost the ratepayers nothing. If the council had decided on an inland site (of which there were nine) earlier, we would have been eligible for grant money worth millions of dollars and the cost for the pool would have been cheaper.

Some current councillors and council officers can be proud of achieving the swimming centre.

Others not so.

John Cain, McCrae

Adopt Indigenous name

Now for Mornington

Vote 1 Rosebud

I for one would welcome some acknowledgement of our first Australians by choosing an Indigenous name for our new swimming centre [at Rosebud]. Contrary to assertions that visitors to the Mornington Peninsula are too stupid to be able to deal with an Indigenous name, I think it would enhance the recognition of the fact that we all live on land stolen from the First Nations people of Australia (“A timely end to shire’s aquatic procrastination” Letters 23/6/20).

So please councillors, if you can’t call it Bunwarrong swimming centre at least choose an Indigenous name.

Rupert Steiner, Balnarring Beach

Foreshore never option The foreshore land was never an option because, as the councillors were told many times, a pool on the foreshore was not coastal dependent (“No cost pool site” Letters 23/6/20).

Time and time again the state environment minister advised council to choose an inland site for the pool and time and time again council chose to ignore the advice. Also, I’m sad too, said the then federal Environment Minister, Flinders MP Greg Hunt, who also tried to influence the state government.

It is great to see the new aquatic centre at Rosebud nearing completion. It is a much needed and long anticipated community facility.

While being aware of the enormous demands placed on Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, l would like to make a plea for a similar aquatic centre for Mornington.

The government claims that all children should learn to swim and, it could be argued, that this is even more vital in our area where our beaches are our playgrounds.

I attend a local gym for aqua hydrotherapy where l witness primary school children having swimming lessons in overcrowded and inappropriate conditions.

Some schools take children to our local beaches, which is great but not ideal for learn to swim practices.

I remember buying raffle tickets for building the pool at the original Mornington High School, now long gone.

Mornington Secondary College has a great pool, but that would be fully utilised given the school population.

Frankston and Hastings have excellent facilities, Rosebud will soon, and Mornington residents deserve something similar.

It should not be necessary to travel to other centres, nor should schools need to utilise private facilities and gyms.

An aquatic centre in Mornington would be of great benefit to our community and make our beautiful coast safer.

Sea baths as we had in the past would be just wonderful, but beyond my wildest dreams.

Libby Gillingham, Mornington

Thumbs up The Greens Last week I mentioned that the jury on The Greens was still out and have since looked into the matter (“Best of the worst” Letters 23/6/20).

Their policies are quite sound and not radical at all, rather empathetic, rational and humane. They have wacko factions, but they do not control the party although they are most heard (they make the news). But that’s politics.

Unlike the Coalition and Labor, The Greens don’t take donations from corporate mafia buying influence.

They are powered by people, not big corporations, special interests, and lobby groups who now have free reign in the halls of government.

The Greens get blamed for a lot but, in reality, they have little power over legislation enacted so how could they possibly be responsible? When they do try to put legislation forward (ICAC) it is blocked by the corrupt parties who would suffer the worst.

Take the bushfire blame. The Greens have a positive burn-off policy (confirmed by the CFA).

So, The Greens actually offer an interruption away from the politics of the corporate mafia and special interest groups and are the best hope of ending the endemic systemic corruption of the two major parties.

They are possibly a better result for the next decade or so but, in the end, will succumb to the same systemic corruption for power. The Greens could be a refreshing change, for a while at least.

Do we have the courage to change enough to become more informed about their policies?

I resigned from The Greens due to factional wackos, but still see them as a legitimate alternative. Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach

Aquatic centre naming process ‘flawed’

By Hugh Fraser* IN May, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council officers presented only one name for councillors to “rubber stamp” as the name of our fabulous new 50-metre pool and aquatic centre at Rosebud.

The management process that arrived at that one name was seriously flawed.

Management only allowed itself to consider those names it thought would be acceptable to the Registrar of Geographic Names. This was based on incorrect verbal advice from an unnamed Spring Street public servant at odds with the Statutory Naming Rules for Places in Victoria 2016.

Because we have not carried the community with us on this issue, had councillors accepted management’s recommendation, this may have set in train a series of objections and statutory review by the community.

I am reminded as what the then Liberal Environment Minister Ryan Smith, wrote to our then mayor Cr Antonella Celi on 30 October 2014 when, at council’s request, he withdrew coastal management consent for the proposed Crown land Rosebud foreshore site for what he called the Southern Peninsula Aquatic Centre: “I

understand this has been a contentious issue within the community … I hope the current decision will allow council to progress with the design and construction of an aquatic centre in the Rosebud area with the full support of the local and wider community.”

Wise words from the minister easily forgotten over time but best remembered now for those of us with long memories. Reading the 111-page Naming Rules provided to me by council’s head of governance and legal [shows] there is nothing in them to deny the right and opportunity of council and our community to consider a descriptive name such as “Rosebud Aquatic Centre”. Indeed, there is much in the rules to support such a name or similar name:

“Place names ought be relevant to the local area with preference given to unofficial names used by the local community. Infrastructure features should use the name of the locality, for example Tarneit Railway Station. Features that use the name of a locality are not considered duplicates but must have unique identifier that distinguishes the feature from other similarly named features.

“If choosing a name based on a location, the feature should be given the name of the official locality. If the name of the location is used to define and locate a feature, such as Ballarat Avenue of Honour, the locality’s name should appear first in the feature’s name.”

These rules do not deny our community or council the right to consider the name Rosebud Aquatic Centre as one of a number of possible names. Any process that does so deny, is undemocratic and has miscarried.

I support the wider and complete community consultation now underway with a larger range of short-listed names. *Hugh Fraser is Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor for Nepean Ward.

Did you know... you can view our papers online

www.mpnews.com.au PAGE 14

Western Port News

1 July 2020

HAVE YOUR SAY The next local council general election will be held on Saturday 24 October 2020. The Committee for Mornington Peninsula wants to understand local issues that are important to the community leading up to the election of a new council.

• Are you aware that the federal government has made a commitment of $225 million to duplicate and electrify 8km of the Stony Point Rail Line from Frankston to Baxter with a park and ride facility?

• Do you support the electrification of the Stony Point Rail Line from Frankston to Baxter?

The Committee for Mornington Peninsula is an independent, member-based organisation committed to leading and influencing long-term outcomes and contributing to the strategic objectives for the broader Mornington Peninsula.

We would love to hear your views.

To complete the survey go to: https://www.committeeformp.com.au/haveyour-say/cfmp-local-issues-survey/ If you would like to learn more about the Committee for Mornington Peninsula and the benefits of becoming a member visit https://www.committeeformp.com.au

• Would you support the electrification to Hastings?

• Did you realise the Mornington Peninsula Shire is designated as ‘Metropolitan Melbourne’ by the State Government?

• Would you support a push for the Mornington Peninsula Shire to be designated as ‘Regional’ to realise such benefits of lower land tax and living-away-from-home study allowance for our younger generation?

COMMITTEE FOR

MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Congratulations CfMP Board Member Brandon Tilley on being awarded Rising Start of the Year, Australian Accounting Awards 2020

Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 15

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS CALENDAR Sponsored by Community Bank • Balnarring & District

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JULY Although these events and support groups are not meeting due to the COVID 19 virus, this page still contains the email or phone contacts for these important services.

PAGE 16

Western Port News

Relaxing Yoga and Qi Gong Every Tuesday 10.30am. Suitable for over 55s.

Cost $7. Hastings Community House.

185 High St. Hastings.

Call Dianna 0425 779 306 for more info.

Hastings Bowls Club Every Wed starting 6pm. Everyone is welcome to try lawn bowls by starting with barefoot bowls, followed by a BBQ. Located at Marine Pde, Hastings.

Ph 5979 1723 or 0448 023 287 U3A Low cost membership and courses for seniors 45+.

Extensive term 1 low cost membership, courses and activities at www.hastingsu3a.org.au or call into office at 13 Teal Crt, Hastings Mon/Tues 10am–1pm Thurs 1pm-4pm, ph 5969 8585.

Charity Sewing Every third Tues each month If you love sewing, you’d be most welcome to come to the next Sewing afternoon for the Dress-a-Girlaround-the-World project when we sew dresses for young girls living in poverty in third world countries.

Bring your own machine but fabric, simple patterns, thread and trims are supplied. Venue is Hastings Uniting Church hall beginning at 1.30pm.

Enquiries to Sandra 5979 1237.

1 July 2020

Are you a breast cancer survivor?

Come and join us for a paddle in our Dragonboat.

We paddle every Sunday at Patterson Lakes. You can have three “Come and try’s “ before deciding to join our special team. We provide paddles and PFD’s. For more info call Marilyn 0433 114 338 or Lyndsay 0425 743 455. For fun, fitness and friendship.

Family Drug Support – Frankston Non-religious, open meetings for those impacted by someone’s drug and/or alcohol use. Talk/listen in a non-judgemental, safe environment.

Wednesday fortnightly, 6pm at Frankston Hospital, 2 Hastings Rd. Meetings are free.

Further details phone Chloe 0448 177 083 Family History Melb PC Users Group, Mornington, Family History and DNA. We meet at the Mornington Information Centre every 3rd Monday for Family History and every last Wednesday for DNA (research), Q&A, Information, Presentations. www.melbpc.org.au/ sigs/mornington-peninsula-sig/family-history Contact Colin 0417 103 678 IBS/FODMAP Sensitives Support and Self-Help Association Suffering bloat, pain, foggy-thinking. Chronic foodrelated gut dysfunction. Food sensitivities. Guidance through self-diagnosis of specific food intolerances, resolution, recipes. Face-face forums, individual, small group sessions. No cost.

Sasha: 0422 918 074 or 0407 095 760 Petanque Come and enjoy the fun playing petanque on Wednesdays and Sundays at Moorooduc Recreation Reserve, Derril Road Moorooduc from 3pm - 5pm. Further info contact.Jim 0458548491 or Jan 0409132761 or email morningtonpeninsulapetanque@gmail.com Angling Club Snapper Point Angling Club is looking for new members. For a short time all joining fees will be waivered so why not come along to one of our monthly meetings, fishing comps or just an excursion. Experience the friendly comradery between like-minded fishos and swap some of those legendary stories. Website spac.org.au or call Russ on 0418320314 Epilepsy Support Group Meet every 2nd Saturday at St Francis Xavier Parish, 60 Davey St, Frankston from 1pm – 3pm.

Further details phone Sue 0407 509 519 or Cris 0437 386 867 Hastings Day Club Meets at the Hastings RSL each Thurs (except the 1st) at 10.30am. A very friendly social club with entertainment, outings, speakers on a regular basis, lunch $5. Come along & enjoy.

Contact Sheila 0447 415 889 Mornington Peninsula Veterans Cricket Missing active cricket & looking for some exercise?

The bowlers are getting quicker and your reflexes slower? Join the growing trend of former and current cricketers, now over 60, who are reestablishing their cricketing skills? We play matches every Sunday and mid week so there are plenty of opportunities to have a game of cricket in a wonderful social atmosphere.

For more info please call Michael 0407 823619 or Ian 59751683 or email mbou2030@bigpond.net Alcoholics Anonymous - Mornington Peninsula Do you need help to stop drinking? You’re not alone, contact us now on our 24 hour helpline 1300 880 390 or find a local meeting at www.aatimes.org.au/meetings

Frankston Parkinson’s Peer Support Group Meets in the Bridget Clancy room at St John of God hospital, from 10 am on the 3rd Monday of each month to listen to speakers, share information and socialise. More info available from Karen 0412 979 902 or Glenys 0437 956 305.

Hastings Combined Probus Club Meetings held 1st Monday of each month starting at 10am at The Hastings Sports Club. All retirees welcome. Outstanding guest speakers at each meeting, day trips and cruises, morning tea and lunch outings at various venues. Visitors welcome.

Contact Secretary – Dulcie on 0417130643 JP locations National & International documents inc affadavits, stat decs & cert copies signed FREE of charge at police stations on the Peninsula. Hastings: Wednesdays 5pm to 7pm or Google find a JP Victoria or Ph1300365567.

Mornington Peninsula Writers Every 2nd and 4th Sat, 10am – 1pm Somerville Community House, Blacks Camp Road Somerville. Email info@mornpenwriters.org Weight Loss Support Group Do you need help to lose some of that extra weight you are carrying about? Finding it difficult to keep the weight off? Come to Meeting Room 1 at the Hastings Community Hub, 1973 Frankston Flinders Road, Hastings, 9-11am every Wednesday. The first two visits are free to see if our club is what you want, then a one-off fee of $50 and just $6 per week to join our friendly, supportive group.

For further information call Rita on 0433 509 487.

Mornington Dutch Australian Seniors Club Inviting you for a social get together, every Monday from 10.30am - 2pm. Join us in a Dutch card game, “Klaverjas” and a social game of Rummicub. Coffee and tea supplied. New members welcome. For more information ring Nel 59775680 or Elly 0432933292 Tyabb Hall - Frankston Flinders Rd, Tyabb.

Free parking Frankston & District Stamp Club Not sure what to do with your old stamp collection?

Come along and meet our friendly club members, always available for help and advice. We meet at 7.00 pm on the third Thursday each month at Belvedere Community Centre, 36 Belvedere Road, Seaford. Enquiries 5995 9783.

Boomerang Bags There are fifteen Boomerang Bags groups across the Peninsula. Volunteers repurpose fabric destined for landfill into reusable bags to replace plastic bags.

The Balnarring group meets on Thursdays 1-3pm at BPS in Civic Crt. Cheryl 0438633971.

Find other groups at Boomerangbags.org Reclink Art Therapy Visual Arts course for adults Basic introduction to art making for health and wellbeing. During term times. Friday mornings 10am – noon. Wallaroo Community Centre, 6 Wallaroo Place, Hastings. Contact Gaye 0409174128 to book and enrol.

Probus Club of Somerville 3rd Wednesday of each month at 9.45am St Andrews Church Hall, Eramosa Rd West. Activities, guest speakers, trips. All welcome.

Contact Val 5977 6686.

Living with Autism Spectrum Resource support group, Monthly meetings Mondays, No cost. Phone for dates. Wallaroo Community Centre, Hastings. Contact: 5970 7000

Polio Have you or do you know anyone who had polio or is now experiencing after effects of polio? Please come to our support group meeting held at 11am on the second Saturday of each month at the Information Centre, Main St, Mornington. Enquiries: 5981 2540 Combined Probus Club of Balnarring Third Friday of each month at 10am. Held at the Balnarring Community Hall Frankston-Flinders Rd, Balnarring. Guest speakers each month covering a wide range of subjects. The club has a diverse range of interest groups, outings and travel, Visitors and prospective new members are welcome.

Contact Patsy Wilson on 5983 9949.

Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society Public Stargazing Hear inspiring talks, view stars, planets, clusters and galaxies through our powerful telescopes every Friday in January, and then 8pm on the 1st Friday of every month at The Briars dark-sky observatory.

Melways ref 151 E1. Bookings are essential.

Small fee payable. Details www.mpas.asn.au or phone 0419 253 252.

Find us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/mpas0/ Frankston Prostate Support Group The support group meets on the last Thursday of each month at 10am in the King Close Community Hall in Frankston North. Men with prostate health issues and their partners are invited to attend the support group for discussion on prostate health issues and some friendly banter.

Details: 0407817996 (Gordon) Dog Lovers Walking Group Join us for friendship, fun and exercise for dogs and owners. Baxter Park (Near Tennis Courts).

Tuesdays at 8:30 am & 9:30 am & Thursdays at 9:30 am. Great for puppies. Regular social events as well.

Contact Suzanne on 9789 8475 Balnarring Bowls & Social Club Come join us to maintain fitness & good health, make new friends and have a laugh, enjoy social days and compete if you like. Located at Bruce St Reserve, Balnarring. 5983 1655 or info@balnarringbowls.com.au Holy Trinity Anglican Church Op Shop 2nd Saturday of each month Jumble sale inluding furniture, plants, larger items, along with bric a brac. The Op Shop (benhind Coles) in Churst St, Hastings.

Any inquiries: Judy 0425 848 957 Hastings View Club Voice Interest Education of Women Raising funds for the Learning for Life Program.

Meeting 3rd Friday of the month at 12noon at The Hastings Club, Marine Parade, Hastings.

Contact Janet 0403 786 069.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS CALENDAR The next Community Event calendar will be published 5th Aug 2020.

Email your free listing to communityevents@mpnews.com.au by 29th July 2020.

Western Port

property

MY ISLAND HOME PAGE 3 WEDNESDAY 1st JULY 2020

BAXTER, SOMERVILLE, TYABB, HASTINGS, BITTERN, CRIB POINT, BALNARRING, BALNARRING BEACH, FLINDERS

Speak to your agent about listing on realestateview.com.au.

Be seen everywhere.

INTRODUCING

W AT E R F A L L G A R D E N S ROSEBU D

Photo is indicative only.

A boutique community of luxury, 2 & 3 bedroom single level homes.

These residences, in the heart of an established neighbourhood in Rosebud, set the scene for a new enclave of luxurious living. Combining cosmopolitan

All homes feature:

• • • • •

Premium finishes including stone benchtops Quality appliances Master with WIR & ensuite 6 star energy rating Low maintenance living

inner-city styling with a sublime coastal setting, located opposite Bay Views Golf Course and only a short drive to Rosebud beach.

Development by:

PRICED FROM $534,500 - $589,000 Display suite 61 Fairway Grove Rosebud

Open: Wednesday 12:00-2:00pm Saturday as advertised or by appointment

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N P L E AS E C O N TAC T:

Robert Bowman: 0417 173 103 robert@bowmanandcompany.com.au

Darren Sadler: 0448 947 622 darren.sadler@granger.com.au

71-77 Hove Road & 61 Fairway Grove, Rosebud

mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 1st July, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 2

ON THE COVER

SPACIOUS MODERN HOME WITH CALMING FAMILY ZONES ESCAPE the hustle and bustle to this popular hinterland village, still only 20 minutes from Mornington, that offers boutique shopping, cute cafes and fine restaurants. Designed

by Metricon Homes, this handsome double storey property presents beautifully from the street with a sleek rendered facade complemented by natural timbers and extensive landscaping. Entry is to a large hallway with a formal lounge sweeping around to the left; this chic entertaining space is one of two sensational living zones on the ground floor with the second incorporated into a larger family zone at the rear of the home. This vast, beautifully tiled space is filled with natural light courtesy of the floor to ceiling windows in the dining area, whilst to the magnificent kitchen are gleaming stone benchtops and stainless-steel appliances including a 900-millimetre oven with gas cooktop and rangehood. From the comfortable lounge, stacked sliding doors reveal an undercover alfresco deck that has been finished with Ziptrak blinds which leads out to a pleasant garden terrace and fire pit area.

Throughout the ground floor is gas ducted heating and split system air conditioning. Adding real value to an already feature packed home is the third lounge room upstairs which is ideal for a study zone or gaming area. Three bedrooms branch off from here, two have built-in robes whilst a guest bedroom has a walk-in robe, and all three share the main bathroom which has a separate shower and tub. The inviting master bedroom opens out to a private balcony and there is also a walk-in robe with a large well-appointed ensuite boasting a shower and double vanity. Full use has been made of the 583 square metre block which affords a reassuring sense of privacy with hedging around the boundary and lush lawn areas for children and pets. A magic place to call home, this Metricon masterpiece represents exemplary peninsula living where you can enjoy a unique sense of space, community and serenity.n

HOME ESSENTIALS

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

ADDRESS: 9 Island View Close, BALNARRING FOR SALE: $1,080,000 - $1,150,000 DESCRIPTION: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car INSPECT: By Private Appointment AGENT: Malcolm Parkinson 0421 704 246, Stone Real Estate, Suite 2/1a Main Street, Mornington, 5970 8000 mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 1st July, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 3

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

SOLD

$220,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

2

1

1

Kitchen with great bench space Lounge room with air-conditioning Renovated bathroom and laundry Rear verandah, single carport

$225,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

2

1

1

Open plan lounge Separate dining area Modern kitchen Separate bathroom & laundry

$230,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

2

1

1

Fantastic open plan Kitchen plus separate dining area Lounge with air-conditioning Single garage with roll-a-door

SOLD

$235,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

2

1

1

$250,000

u Kitchen/diner with bay window Lounge and main bedroom both with air-con u u Separate bathroom and laundry u Front & rear verandahs, lock-up storage

Bed

Bath

Car

2

1

1

Huge lounge with new carpet Both bedrooms have BIR’s Kitchen with great bench space Veranda and a single carport

$260,000 u u u u

u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

2

1

1

Fantastic open floor plan Huge kitchen and dining area Lounge room with air-conditioning Single garage with auto roller door

$290,000 u u u u

Bath

Car

2

1

1

Fantastic floor plan Huge kitchen & dining area Large lounge with air-conditioning European laundry

SOLD

NEW

$280,000

Bed

Bed

Bath

Car

2

1

1

Two bedrooms with BIR’s Large lounge with raked ceiling Spacious kitchen/dining area Garden shed, single garage

$325,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Study

Car

2

1

1

1

Open plan living Kitchen with great bench space Lounge room with raked ceilings 2.2 K/W solar system has been installed

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, 1st July, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 4

The he

our comm u

ty ni

urhood bpo H h g

s

t of ar

se ou

Neighbourhood Houses The heart of our Community

Ne

i

Welcome Back for Term 3 We are so excited to welcome everyone back to the Crib Point & Somerville Community Houses. We have missed you all so much and have been working hard to make sure everything is safe for your return. Things will look and be different as we have procedures and protocols we need to follow. There will be plenty of hand sanitiser, everything will be disinfected regularly & of course, social distancing will have to be adhered to at all times.

We will be running a reduced program as there are some classes that we are unable to have yet, such as exercise, yoga & dance classes until restrictions ease, except for walking groups.

We have to be mindful of the number of participants in each class and in the Centre. Make sure you give either of us a call before you turn up to secure your spot. We would hate to disappoint.

Join us at Crib Point for Craft on Monday & Thursday or Knitters n Hookers, Patchwork, Sheer Art Attack, Photo Scrapbooking or Sewing for Beginners. If Meditation is what you’re after, there’s 2 sessions of Meditation & Spiritual Development with Shirley or Meditation with Candy on Tuesday mornings.

You might like to join our self-help

Kim at the Annie Sage Community Centre

group, Women’s Wellness. What about researching your Family Tree Circle or joining our new Book club? The popular Lady’s Woodwork is now on twice a week, Monday & Wednesday afternoons. There’s still a lot on offer, so give drop or us a call to book in.

The Somerville Community House is providing a selection of friendly and low-cost Community classes. You may

Welcome to the SOMERVILLE COMMUNITY HOUSE Term 3 Program We are excited to announce that for now we are open to a small number of groups. There are strict limits on the number of participants so please contact us to ensure your spot.

We have sanitiser stations throughout, allocated seating for social distancing, disinfectant wipes, and strict protocols in place.

We want you to be safe and to enjoy your time!

Rolling out the Welcome Mat

like to join one of our craft groups and knit or crochet a beanie or knee rug for winter. Plant and share a crop of Winter vegetables with our gardeners. Work on a drawing or painting with fellow artists.

Take a stroll around leafy Somerville with our small group of walkers or amblers. Or you might want to start that novel you have in your head and seek inspiration from our Peninsula Writer’s group. We

Crib Point Community House Inc. Inc. Reg No. A0005121C

For the Kids and Teenagers • Kids Acrylic Art

• Tween Acrylic Art

Please note: These classes have been reduced in price and numbers, and are subject to change.

Somerville/ Tyabb Rotary meet Wednesday evenings Annie Sage Community Centre Home of the Somerville Community House 21 Blacks Camp Rd, Somerville Phone to secure your spot: 5977 8330 or 0438 241 134

ABN 13 567 174 223

7 Park Road, Crib Point. Vic 3919

5983 9888

www.cpch.org.au info@cpch.org.au

BOOKINGS BEGIN ON MONDAY 13TH JULY

OFFICE HOURS: MON TO THURS 9AM - 3PM, FRI 9AM - 12 NOON

NO MARKET UNITL FURTHER NOTICE email: market@cpch.org.au

Term 3 Classes Knitting and Hookers – Monday $3 Walkers and Talkers – Monday, Wednesday, Friday Amblers – Tuesday/ Thursday Adult Painting/ Drawing Class – Wednesday $3 Somerville Stitchers – Wednesday $3 Adult Craft Various – Wednesday $3 Mornington Peninsula Writer’s – Alternate Saturdays $3

also have two groups of Cryptic Crossword sleuths who love to crack the code.

We are planning a series of kids, teen and adult acrylic art classes from the start of Term 3 (13th July) with a notable drop in pricing to entice you back in the doors.

We hope you can join us in these challenging times as we are all in this together.

Groups and Classes for Term 3 Monday

Tuesday

Wellness Craft Ladies Woodwork Meditation & Spritual Dev

Easy Walking Meditiation with Candy Sheer Art Attack

Wednesday

Thursday

Material Girls Family Tree Circle Women’s Wellness Ladies Woodwork

Cackle ‘n’ Craft Knitter ‘n’ Hookers Meditation & Spritual Dev Sewing for Beginners Book Club

Friday

Stitchin’ Sisters Patchwork

Saturday

Photo Scrapbooking

PHONE: 5983 9888 Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 21

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

Social and presentation to Mr and Mrs Wilcox Compiled by Cameron McCullough LAST Monday night the Frankston Mechanics’ Hall was crowded with friends and well-wishers who assembled to say farewell to Mr and Mrs A. G. Wilcox.

The popularity of the guests was testified to by the large and representative attendance, accounted for by the fact that during a long residence in Frankston both Mr and Mrs Wilcox have proved admirable citizens in every way.

The hall was beautifully decorated.

Friends from the country had supplied an abundance of wattle blossom, and with palms and other pot plants loaned

by Mr A. Bailey of the Frankston Nurseries, a very fine effect was secured.

Balloons of various colors hung from the ceiling and added to the picturesqueness of the scene.

The Frankston Brass Band was in attendance under the leadership Mr Blaskett, and the inspiriting music supplied sent the proceedings along with a live swing.

Dancing interspersed with songs and other items made an attractive programme.

Mr Fairnie’s songs, with Miss Kimlin at the piano were greatly appreciated while Sergeant Finn in his clog dance turns, met with a most enthusiastic reception.

The catering arrangements were supervised by Mrs C. Dalman, VicePresident of the Wattle Club and this lady is to be complimented on the completeness of the arrangements in this connection.

The guests on arrival to the hall were met by members of the committee, and

as they were being conducted to their seats by the chairman of the committee (Mr M. Brady), the band struck up “For they are jolly good fellows”. The people rising and joining in with fine effect.

After refreshments had been served Cr Oates took charge of the proceedings, and the guests were escorted to the stage, where valedictory speeches and presentations were made.

Rev. E. P. Macfarlane (Anglican), said he was pleased to be present to testify to the profound respect in which Mr and Mrs Wilcox were held by all classes of the community.

They had been excellent citizens, and Frankston was sorry to lose them.

The present splendid gathering of friends and well-wishers, including the leading citizens of the town, was an eloquent testimony of the respect felt for the departing guests.

The rev. gentleman spoke as a citizen, and one who had known the Gregory family for many years.

(Cheers.)

Mrs Wilcox, as a member of that family had a splendid example set her by the late Mrs Gregory, than whom Frankston never had a greater friend and benefactor.

The speaker referred to Mrs Wilcox’s work on behalf of public movements, wherein her great energy and organising ability had proved invaluable.

Mr Wilcox was a man of great geniality, and was also largely identified with the public life of the town.

He had done much to advance the commercial prosperity of Frankston and the district could not afford to lose him.

Mr and Mrs Wilcox would carry

with them the love and affection of all who knew them well, while everyone joined in wishing them every prosperity, health and happiness in their new home. (Cheers.)

Mr H. Vicars spoke on behalf of the R.S.S.I.L.A. and the Frankston Soldiers’ Memorial Committee, Mr Wilcox having been president of both organisations.

Mr Vicars knew from personal observation that both Mr and Mrs Wilcox had worked extremely hard in the interests of the soldiers, and it was entirely due to the initiative of Mr Wilcox that a sum of over £300 was recently raised for the Frankston Soldiers’ Memorial Fund. (Cheers).

Mr H. Gamble, as vice-president of the Frankston Horticultural and Agricultural Association, referred with regret to the departure of Mr Wilcox, who as treasurer of the Association, had proved such a valuable member.

He was always keen to improve the status of the annual shows, and had been instrumental is increasing the value of prizes, notably in the horse sections. The vacancy caused by his departure would be hard to fill.

Mrs Wilcox had proved an invaluable member of the Wattle Club, and in other ways had always assisted local movements for the public good (Applause).

Councillor W. J. Oates, on behalf of the public, presented Mr and Mrs Wilcox with a wallet of notes.

He voiced the general regret felt at their departure, and trusted that they would soon “make their pile,” and return to Frankston to reside for the rest of their lives.

Mr Wilcox had served his country in

France, and it was hoped that in civil life he would have all the success he deserved. (Great applause) Mr and Mrs Wilcox would be missed by many, and it was hoped that with the gift from the residents they would be able to purchase some little token that would serve to remind them of the many friends they were leaving behind in Frankston. (Cheers) On behalf of the Wattle Club, Mr L. J. Ward made a presentation to Mrs Wilcox of a handsome blackwood roll-top writing cabinet. He spoke in appreciative terms of the work done by Mrs Wilcox as secretary and said that much of the success attained was due to her efforts.

The gift was made in the hope that it might prove useful; also that it would serve to remind the recipient of the many strenuous and happy days spent in the service of the sick and wounded soldiers who visited Frankston at the invitation of the Wattle Club. (Cheers) Mr Blaskett, conductor, spoke on behalf of the Frankston Brass Band, of which Mr Wilcox was the president.

Mr Wilcox made a brief but heartfelt response. It was apparent, that both he and Mrs Wilcox were greatly moved by the warmth of the reception accorded them.

Mr and Mrs Wilcox departed for Benalla on Tuesday. *** LIEUTENANT Bennett, one of the mechanics, who accompanied Sir Ross Smith in the aerial flight from England to Australia, recently motored from Sydney to Melbourne via the coast, reaching Cranbourne on Sunday last without any mishap.

On proceeding along the Cranbourne

road to Frankston the first mishap occurred through the motor getting bogged, but with the assistance of the neighbors the car was extricated and enabled to proceed on its way. *** Heard in the Train Probably the Council will soon be approaching the ratepayers, asking for permission to purchase the turnout at the Frankston gas works.

Recent events seem to point that way.

Will the Frankston Gas Co. deny that its present plant is incapable of supplying the necessary power to effectively light Frankston?

It’s engine power last season could not generate sufficient electricity for all needs.

This season 500 additional units are required for lighting alone, still there are upwards of 100 residences waiting for current.

And yet some people are reported as holding the view that it would be a difficult matter to prove that the company has not fulfilled the conditions of its contract!

A less difficult proposition would be for a half-dozen long-suffering householders to stand out and absolutely refuse to pay on the grounds that they never received the light for which the company charged them.

The new owner of the Prince of Wales Hotel, Frankston, has a small army of workmen at present engaged in renovating the premises.

He intends expending something like £2000 on improvements and additions. *** FROM the pages of the Mornington Standard, 25 June 1920

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:

Community Events

PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or email communityevents@mpnews.com.au PAGE 22

Western Port News

1 July 2020

Speak to your agent about listing on realestateview.com.au.

Be seen everywhere.

PUZZLE ZONE 1

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ACROSS 1. Prodded sharply 5. Egg-shaped 7. Of eyes 8. Defrost 9. Ensnare 10. Fourth Greek letter 11. Give work to 13. Contended

29

14. Tugged 18. Final option, last ...

21. Rim 22. Dines well 24. Recess 25. Reed instrument 26. ... & duchess 27. Expand 28. Animal hide

29. Rubs vigorously DOWN 1. Nervous 2. Intestine 3. Drab 4. Of stars 5. Eight-note intervals 6. Nonprofessional

12. Primary number 15. Loud enough to be heard 16. Most avid 17. Trenches 19. Before (poetic) 20. Decorative tufts 22. Cuts down 23. Viper

Puzzles supplied by Lovatts Publications Pty Ltd www.lovattspuzzles.com See page 25 for solutions.

Have your say on arts and culture FRANKSTON City Council has drafted an Arts and Culture Strategic Plan for the next four years and is now seeking community feedback on the plan to continue to foster the local community’s vibrant and active participation in literature and the arts. Now is the time to have your say about artistic programs, events and opportunities within Frankston City over the coming years.

Frankston currently has a population of approximately 140,000 people, which is expected to increase to 160,000 by 2050. As the region evolves over the next 10 years and becomes more of a destination for businesses, new residents and cultural tourists, Council is committed to innovate and offer fresh and contemporary art and culture experiences that are inclusive, respectful to all community groups and our environment.

During the life of the previous Arts and Culture strategy, Council upgraded Frankston

Arts Centre and its infrastructure; built on its sculpture and eclectic street art collection; and promoted the city’s reputation as an arts, festival and events destination.

Incorporating Frankston Libraries, Frankston Major Events, Frankston Arts Centre and Council’s public art programs and commissions, the strategy aims to strengthen our community through learning, new experiences and engaging arts programs. If you have ideas for how to promote the city’s reputation as an arts, festival and events destination, Council wants to hear from you.

To complete the online survey, visit thefac. com.au before Friday 17 July, 5pm. To request a hard copy of the survey via post, contact Frankston Arts Centre on 9784 1060. Everyone who completes the survey will go in a draw to win one of three $100 vouchers for Frankston Arts Centre.

Frankston City Council is proud to support two grant streams for artists and creatives as part of Council’s COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Package Grants are available in two categories: Creative Industries - to support local artists and creatives to build the capacity of their practice via participation in further training, career development activities, mentorships, workshops and other projects directly related to career development. Eight successful recipients will receive $2500.

Artist Grants – to develop new work that can be presented online, in a site specific location or at a venue that complies with social distancing restrictions at the time. Eight successful recipients will receive $4000.

Submissions open: Submission close:

Monday 22 June Sunday 19 July

The applicants must live, work, study in the Frankston municipality or demonstrate a strong affiliation with the Frankston City municipality.

To view the Grant Guidelines and apply visit: https://bit.ly/ArtsGrants2020

Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 23

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

scoreboard WESTERN PORT

Final siren sounds for sports season hopes next month, with a plan to return already outlined. AFL South East had announced that they planned for the season to get underway by 25 July, with a shortened fixture and a zero salary cap.

After a further meeting between AFL South East officials and MPNFL club representatives last weekend, plans to start the season were scrapped.

The News understands that only five

Brodie Cowburn brodie@mpnews.com.au THE 2020 MPNFL season has been cancelled.

AFL South East announced the decision to call off their competitions on 27 June. All senior football and netball divisions will not go ahead this year.

There were hopes that the league would be able to get up and running

clubs in each division had indicated that they were definitely on board to play out the season.

AFL South East Chief Operations Officer Shaun Connell said “whilst we are disappointed to cancel the 2020 MPNFL season, the health and wellbeing of the community and the sustainability of our clubs has always been our priority.”

“We took a positive approach to return to the playing field but, with

growing concern around the management of clubs during COVID and the growing uncertainty within the community, it was agreed that traditional MPNFL home and away season was not viable for 2020. Once it became clear that the long term sustainability of clubs was at risk, the decision was clear cut and needed to be made in a timely fashion,” he said.

“COVID-19 has presented a very unique set of circumstances and we

needed to ensure that all 22 clubs, and AFL South East as an organisation, emerged from this pandemic in a healthy state. We look forward to working with our clubs to create a safe and healthy environment for all members and volunteers moving forward.”

AFL South East will draw up plans for an opt-in informal competition later this year if restrictions allow for it.

Let junior NPL season begin SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie WHILE other sports announce a season shutdown soccer looks set for a season reboot this weekend.

Three local clubs– Langwarrin, Mornington and Peninsula Strikers – will host junior NPL matches during a bumper double header involving under-13, under-14, under-15 and under-16 teams playing on Saturday and Sunday.

In an interview on Football Out West Show last week FV’s Football Operations Manager Will Hastie gave every indication that the state governing body remained committed to a return to competition.

He confirmed FV’s preference for a 16-game senior season and the expectation that “largely the competition structures will stay intact” meaning that most leagues should comprise 12 teams.

The first phase of the season will see teams playing each other over 11 rounds before splitting into a top half and bottom half and playing another five rounds against teams in their half of the league.

“If every team plays each other once we’ll consider that a bona fide season in 2020,” Hastie said.

He also suggested that the season would extend into October.

“Some people might have seen the announcement that cricket and AFL put out in relation to an extended use of facilities for AFL into the early part of October,” he added.

“We’ll be announcing something

similar which will get us into that early October window and that will enable us to play four to six weeks longer than we would normally have played.”

FV’s Senior Executive Manager Business Services, Matt Green, has been working with Sport and Recreation Victoria, Cricket Victoria and local government to arrange extended use of facilities.

It’s expected that FV will announce details of season length, composition of leagues and promotion guidelines this week.

The state body’s confidence that the season will get underway was in stark contrast to local AFL and netball after AFL South East (AFLSE) announced the decision last weekend to cancel all official football and netball competitions across the Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football League (MPNFL).

The AFL South East media release

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will remain closed on Saturday when it hosts Berwick City in their junior NPL clashes however the canteen at Dallas Brooks Park will be open.

“We are going to be very cautious on our first weekend back whilst we work through the challenges of COVID-19 and make sure we are adhering to all the (biosecurity) requirements,” club president Matt Cameron said.

Langwarrin was likely to have its canteen open but is working through health department guidelines while Strikers were not in a position to open the canteen as we went to press.

“At this stage the only thing that will be open is a toilet or two, the referees’ room and the physio room,” Strikers vice-president Steve Schreck confirmed.

Here are this weekend’s junior NPL fixtures: SATURDAY: Mornington v Berwick City, Dallas Brooks Park (U13s 9.30am, U14s 11am, U15s 12.30pm, U16s 2.30pm); Peninsula Strikers v Dandenong City, Centenary Park (U13s 10am, U14s 11.30am, U15s 1pm, U16s 2.40pm); Oakleigh Cannons v Langwarrin, Jack Edwards Reserve (U13s 10.10am, U14s 11.20am, U15s 12.45pm, U16s 2.45pm).

SUNDAY: Langwarrin v Kingston City, Lawton Park (U13s 9am, U14s 10.30am, U15s 10.30am, U16s 12pm), Peninsula Strikers v Glen Eira, Centenary Park (U13s 10am, U14s 11.30am, U15s 1pm, U16s 2.40pm), Gippsland FC v Mornington, Latrobe City Sports Stadium (U13s 9.45am, U14s 11.05am, U15s 2pm, U16s 12.25pm).

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said, in part: “At a meeting … between AFLSE and MPNFL club presidents, a decision was reached to cancel competitions encompassing seniors, reserves and under 19 football and all grades of netball.

“Concerns raised by senior football clubs included financial sustainability, player numbers, the additional burden on volunteers, management of socialdistancing protocols and an inability to raise much-needed funding through gate takings, canteen, and bar sales.”

While these concerns are shared by many local soccer clubs they were preparing to play while doing their best to meet the strict biosecurity protocols updated by FV last week.

The aspect of self-regulation underpins the protocols and has prompted Frankston Pines senior coach Kevin “Squizzy” Taylor to ponder an interesting scenario.

“It’s a joint responsibility for clubs to assess players on arrival and for the individual to self-assess so everyone will be relying on each other,” he said.

“But it’s a system that is open to abuse.

“What would happen if a club refused entry to the star player in the opposition team based on a made-up belief that they could have COVID-19 symptoms?

“The rules are that anyone presenting with these symptoms should be immediately isolated before being sent home.”

Nevertheless Taylor is keen for the season to commence and remains confident that Pines can have a big year.

“I think we need to have a season because of all the doom and gloom we’ve had.

“I’ve got a good squad with lots of depth and the way things are shaping I think this season is pretty much a free hit for every club.”

He says the impact of Pines’ four Fijian internationals has been immense.

“You can just see the way players have reacted at training.

“Everyone has lifted because there’s so much competition for places.”

Taylor and a number of support staff were joined by the Fijian imports last Saturday at Monterey Reserve as Pines’ all abilities program was launched.

Local federal MP Peta Murphy joined in the Come and Try session as did ex-professional players Bobby McGuinness and Russell Athersych and Pines will host another all abilities session this Saturday at 10am.

Meanwhile Mornington’s clubrooms

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S Western Port News

1 July 2020

PAGE 25

WESTERN PORT scoreboard

Felicia tops off remarkable comeback HORSE RACING

By Ben Triandafillou TRAINER Dean Binaisse has topped off a remarkable comeback with a three-year-old filly that was twice recommended to be put down following an unsuccessful knee operation last year.

Following a breakthrough victory at Caulfield on Saturday 28 June, Binaisse explained the long journey taken to get Felicia back to not only full health but to be competitive in city class races after the ownership group were told to expect the worst.

The former Matthew Seyers-trained Felicia was unbeaten as a two-year-old in Adelaide winning twice by a combined margin of more than eight lengths before suffering a bone chip in the knee.

While she went to a clinic to have it removed, a secondary infection worsened the joint with the leg showing little response to any treatment.

Despite two veterinary clinics of the opinion to put the filly down, Ribblesdale Stud’s Brooke Barker insisted otherwise. Further scans and operations, pushed by Barker, saw the filly start to show improvement with Barker also providing rehab for Felicia on her farm before heading to Binaisse’s property in Mornington to utilise his water walker.

Binaisse said “this horse wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for [Brooke]”.

“She was the one who dug her toes in and wouldn’t let them put her down,” he said. “The people at Golden Plains (Animal Hospital) did a super job on operating on her again.

“It’s taken a long time, but with the water walker and the beach program that we’ve got, that’s what has nursed her back to health and got her to racing. The owners came into this with no expectations, and we’ve managed to get five runs in this preparation and she’s going to the

Defying the odds: The Dean Binaisse-trained Felicia wins by four lengths at Caulfield on Saturday 28 June.

Picture: Supplied

paddock perfectly sound.”

Felicia made her return to the racetrack in the $120,000 VOBIS Gold Dash in April where she managed to finish half-of-a-length away in third. The gutsy filly had another three starts resulting in a fifth, third and second placing in town before scoring her first win back on Saturday in the three-year-old fillies handicap.

Binaisse said there’s also been plenty of quirks that have needed to be worked out before returning the filly to the races.

“She came to us with some ordinary habits,” he said. “She was hard to ride, she had to be loaded last and they struggled to get her into the mounting yard.

“But that’s where the lead pony ‘Elvis’ comes into it. “[Felicia] wouldn’t even roll in the sandroll without him but now she’s become attached to him. He keeps her happy in the roll, he does a lot of her work with her at the beach and even leads her out onto the track on the mornings that

we take her there.

“The beach was a pretty big thing for [Felicia’s] recovery but again, without Elvis, we wouldn’t have achieved what we have so far.

That’s just the extent you’ve got to do to keep horses happy.”

Felicia will now go out to spell at the stud to “thicken up and mature” before coming back to target some black-type mares races if the tracks remain wet.

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Western Port News

1 July 2020

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Western Port News

1 July 2020